BusinessMirror October 10, 2025

Investigators confirm 421 ghost flood control projects

By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

GOVERNMENT investigators have documented more than 400 flood control projects that were funded but never constructed, officials said on Thursday, providing what they described as “low-hanging fruit” for criminal prosecutions as the massive infrastructure corruption probe accelerates.

Public Works Secretary Vivencio Dizon said that out of 8,000 validated projects, a total of 421 were discovered as “ghost,” representing about 5 percent of the initial sweep.

Dizon emphasized the preliminary nature of the findings during a briefing with the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI), noting that the scale of validation work “remains enormous.”

“These are just the initial 8,000 projects validated. There are hundreds of thousands of projects that need to be validated, but out of that initial batch, 421 are ghost

RP, Japan air forces on first joint exercise

By Rex Anthony Naval

THE Air Force (PAF) and the Japan Air

Self-Defense Force (JASDF) formally opened Doshin-Bayanihan 5-25 at the Benito N. Ebuen Air Base in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on Wednesday. The exercise is the first for the PAF and JASDF since the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the two countries entered into force on September 11.

The term “Doshin” translates to “same mind” in Japanese while “Bayanihan” means “mutual support” in Filipino.

The exercise, scheduled to take place from October 7-11 aims to enhance interoperability and deepen cooperation between the two air forces, particularly in the areas of humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR).

About 143 PAF personnel and 30 JASDF members are taking part in the training activities which aims to enhance airlift, mobility, and medical operations.

Aside from these, night vision goggle flights for PAF observation, will also be conducted for the first time in this year’s Doshin-Bayanihan.

Both air forces are deploying C-130 aircraft, with operations designed to simulate realworld HADR scenarios.

Actual disaster relief operations will be applied to aid Cebu residents in light of the recent earthquake that struck the province.

“ Doshin-Bayanihan stands as a testament to the deepening defense partnership between the Philippines and Japan. Beyond strengthening military capabilities, it highlights the shared commitment of both nations to regional cooperation, disaster response, and the promotion of peace, security, and humanitarian assistance across the Asia-Pacific Region,” the PAF said in a statement.

In a statement on Thursday, the Japanese Embassy in Manila announced that the RAA had been applied to the bilateral HADR exercise Doshin-Bayanihan between the Japan Air SelfDefense Force and the Air Force (PAF) conducted in the Philippines starting October 7.

“Furthermore, taking advantage of this bilateral exercise opportunity, Japan Air

projects,” Dizon said in Filipino. Officials expressed confidence that the documented ghost projects would expedite the filing of criminal charges, given the straightforward nature of proving fraud when infrastructure never existed.

“Ghost projects are low-hanging fruit. It’s easier to establish viability and accountability when it’s a ghost project because it’s ghost,” Dizon explained. “The case build-up won’t take long, so hopefully we can file cases more quickly with the ICI.”

ICI Spokesperson Brian Hosaka

said the validated data provides crucial direction for investigators and creates momentum for the commission’s work.

“It’s a big deal that 400-plus have been validated. We now have a starting point,” Hosaka said in Filipino.

The validation effort was conducted by the Department of National Defense (DND), Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), the Armed Forces (AFP), and the National Police (PNP)—all tasked to assist the DPWH in ground verification.

Most of the confirmed ghost projects are concentrated in Luzon, according to Dizon, who declined to provide additional geographic specifics or detailed breakdowns pending the ICI’s investigation.

When asked about the contractors involved, Dizon confirmed that the “same contractors” surfaced, but acknowledged that other parties are implicated.

He noted that the 421 ghost projects are separate from potentially substandard infrastructure, which remains under evaluation and could significantly increase the total count of problematic projects.

Retired National Police chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr., recently appointed as special adviser to the

ICI, will spearhead the investigation into the validated ghost projects.

Hosaka said Azurin plans site visits despite the projects already being confirmed as non-existent by other agencies.

“Azurin will be going around, especially now that he’s here. That’s a big help,” Hosaka said. “Even though these have been validated, it doesn’t prevent the general from going there and looking at it personally to make sure.”

In a related development, the ICI has formally recommended that the DPWH slash its procurement authority thresholds by half to tighten oversight of civil works contracts. The proposal would reduce district-level authority from P150 million to P75 million, and regional authority from P400 million to P200 million.

“The ICI’s suggestion is to cut these in half so we can better control DPWH civil works procurement,” Hosaka said.

Dizon confirmed receiving the formal recommendation and indicated he would act on it promptly.

Investigations into the flood control corruption scandal have implicated numerous lawmakers, contractors, public works officials, and auditors. Some have been charged with graft and malversation cases.

House bill bars public officials, kin, businesses from govt contracts

IN a move to strengthen ethical governance and eliminate conflict of interest in public service, a lawmaker has filed a bill barring public officers and their relatives, and affiliated businesses from government contracts.

Agusan del Norte Rep. Dale B. Corvera has filed House Bill 5222, titled “An Act Prohibiting Public Officers and Their Relatives from Entering into Government Contracts and Providing Penalties Therefor.”

The measure seeks to categorically prohibit public officers, their relatives within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity, and business entities where they hold substantial shares or beneficial interests from entering into contracts with the government.

Corvera emphasized that the bill also covers individuals or entities granted licenses, franchises, permits, accreditations, or similar privileges by the government— prohibiting them from allowing any public officer, their relatives, or affiliated enterprises to exploit such privileges for personal or business gain.

“This bill is about restoring public trust and ensuring that government transactions are free from undue influence and selfdealing,” Corvera said. “It draws a clear line between public duty and private interest.”

Under the measure, violators will face imprisonment of one to 10 years and a fine equivalent to 50 percent of the total value of the government transaction, contract, or deal. Convicted individuals will also be perpetually barred from holding any public office.

“This proposed law sends a clear message: public service is a calling, not a business opportunity,” Corvera added.

“By barring public officers and their close relatives from profiting through government contracts, this measure ensures that those who serve do so with integrity—not for personal gain.”

Corvera cited the constitutional principle that “a public office is a public trust,” emphasizing that public officials and employees must embody integrity, accountability, and transparency in the performance of their duties.

The measure comes amid mounting public outrage over alleged corruption and irregularities in infrastructure projects across the country. In recent months, flood control and drainage programs in several provinces—particularly in Central Luzon— have come under scrutiny following reports of substandard works, ghost projects, and questionable bidding practices allegedly involving individuals linked to public officials.

President Marcos condemned these irregularities, revealing that nearly P100 billion worth of flood control projects— around 20 percent of the total—had been awarded to only 15 contractors.

The President described the situation as “shameful” and subsequently created the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) under Executive Order 94 to investigate these anomalies and hold those involved accountable.

Corvera said these developments highlight the urgency of his measure.

While existing laws—such as

Republic Act 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees), Republic Act 3815 (Revised Penal Code), and Republic Act 12009 (New Government Procurement Act)— contain provisions on conflict of interest and disclosure, Corvera noted that these remain insufficient deterrents against unscrupulous practices.

“Current mechanisms rely too heavily on self-declaration and after-the-fact accountability, creating loopholes that allow public officers to benefit indirectly through relatives, business partners, or proxies,” he said. “By the time violations are discovered, public funds have already been spent, making recovery and accountability difficult.”

House Bill 5222 aims to close these gaps by clearly and directly prohibiting public officers and any person connected to them by marriage, blood, or business interest from directly or indirectly participating in any government contract or procurement activity.

The bill adopts the definition of “public officer” under the Revised Penal Code—covering all elective and appointive officials, whether permanent, temporary, classified, or unclassified, who receive compensation, even nominal, from the government.

If enacted, the measure will serve as a strong deterrent against corruption and reinforce the principle that government service must be driven by public interest, not private profit.

Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz

No way for Antique nuke plant–Legarda

be in favor, and my fellow kasimanwa will not be in favor,” Legarda said.

Directing her questions to Environment Secretary Raphael Lotilla III, Legarda asked what the basis was for identifying Antique as a possible nuclear energy site.

“Why is it [Antique] identified among

SEC chairman on carpet for peddling ‘fake news’

By Jovee Marie N, dela Cruz @joveemarie

THE House of Representatives Committee on Infrastructure co-chairman on Thursday urged Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)

Chairman Francis Lim to clarify his recent statement attributing an alleged P1.7-trillion market value loss to the flood control project scandal, saying it does not reflect the actual performance and historical trends of the Philippine stock market.

Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon of Bicol Saro was referring to Lim’s remarks during a forum of the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (Finex), where he said, “The flood control project scandal has shaken public confidence, wiping out an extraordinary P1.7 trillion in market value of our publicly listed companies in just three weeks, despite rising corporate earnings.”

“Investors aren’t fleeing because of weak fundamentals; they’re fleeing because of weak integrity. It’s a stark reminder that corruption is a weapon of mass wealth destruction,” Lim added.

However, Ridon pointed out that Lim’s statement “does not accurately reflect current and historical conditions of the Philippine capital market.”

“While it is true that over the last three months the Philippine Stock Exchange index [PSEi] declined

TBy Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga

HE death toll in the 6.9 Offshore Northern Cebu Earthquake on September 30 has climbed to 74, as aftershocks continue to rock the island province.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said that the number of aftershocks have breached the 10,000 mark.

As of 12 noon on Thursday, Phivolcs said 10,006 aftershocks have been recorded, of which 1,767 were plotted.

At least 44 of these aftershocks were felt, with magnitudes ranging between 1 to 5.1.

The National Disaster Risk, Reduction and Management Council said the earthquake, which recorded a highest instrumental intensity of 7, also injured a total 559 people.

Most of the casualties are from Bogo City, the ground zero of the killer earthquake.

In its 6:00 a.m. Situation Report dated October 9, the NDRRMC said the number of affected people continues to rise, with reports from various affected cities and municipalities in Cebu still coming in.

So far, a total of 189,620 families or 666,439 persons have been reported affected be the tremblor.

The number of displaced persons also climbed to 7,813.

The NDRRMC said six evacuation centers continue to provide temporary shelter for many of the victims who were rendered homeless by the earthquake.

So far, a total of 71,996 were reported damaged, of which 5,969 were destroyed, and 67,027 others sustained minor to major damage.

Damage to infrastructure also climbed to 706, which includes government bridges, cultural heritage, health facilities, schools, utility services, roads, and flood control were also damaged.

Meanwhile, Phivolcs said it is currently monitoring the effect of a 4.8 magnitude earthquake that hit Pugo, La Union.

The earthquake generated an Intensity V earthquake in Baguio City, the country’s Summer Capital, Intensity III was felt in Aringay, La Union; Bontoc, Mountain Province’ and Sison, Pangasinan.

from a high of 6,525.04 in July to a low of 5,953.46 in September—an 8.75 percent drop—an objective review of PSEi movements over various timelines shows that weak fundamentals, not the flood control scandal, remain the principal reason for market underperformance,” Ridon said.

On a six-month view (April 10–October 9), the PSEi had already reached 6,077.82 as early as April 11, 2025. Although a short recovery followed, the broader decline began after July 14, or two weeks before President Marcos exposed the flood control corruption scandal in his State of the Nation Address.

“In other words,” Ridon said, “the market’s weakening predated the scandal.”

“These figures demonstrate that the ongoing corruption scandal is a convenient but inaccurate explanation for the market’s weakness and the broader slowdown in the economy,” Ridon said. He stressed that while good governance is vital in maintaining investor confidence, market performance primarily depends on sound economic management and private sector response to fundamental growth challenges.

“The responsibility for improving market performance rests primarily with our economic managers and private-sector leaders in addressing fundamental growth constraints,” he added.

Initially, Phivolcs said the earthquake that occurred at exactly 10:38 a.m. could cause damage but it was later ruled out by the same agency.

“The initial report indicated that damage could be expected was based on the preliminary parameters. However, upon further assessment, as indicated in the Earthquake Information 2, the updated data no longer meet the thresholds for expected damage. We’ll continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates if there are any significant developments,” Phivolcs said.

Visayas grid

KEY transmission services in the Visayas grid are now back to normal conditions, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) said. NGCP said the CompostelaDaanbantayan 230kV Line 1 was reenergized at around 2:18 a.m. on Octpber 7 and “is now operating in parallel with the earlier restored Line 2.” Also restored was the Daanbantayan–Tabango 230kV Line 2, or the submarine cable that links Cebu and Leyte.

Meanwhile, restoration works are ongoing for the remaining line on outage, the Daanbantayan-Tabango 230kV Line 1, the NGCP said.

These lines provide N-1 contingency to the backbone transmission corridor already restored and do not affect any power customers.

N-1 contingency refers to an event that causes a glitch in a component of the power grid, the NGCP explained.

“NGCP is working round the clock to ensure the stability and normal grid operations in Visayas following the magnitude 6.9 earthquake. Our teams on the ground continue their restoration and repair works to bolster the reliability of the transmission network,” the agency said in a statement. The NGCP urged power consumers to coordinate with their respective distribution utilities and electric cooperatives for

Lotilla reports improvement in forest cover, air quality

By Jonathan L. Mayuga @joveemarie

HERE were noticeable im -

Tprovements in terms of forest cover and air quality over the years, thanks to various environmental programs implemented by the government over time, Environment Secretary Raphael M. Lotilla said.

Speaking to the members of the Senate Committee on Finance, led by Sen. Loren Legarda, Lotilla presented the proposed P28.102 billion budget of the DENR for 2026.

“This proposed budget in support of the environment means investing in water supply and governance, forest protection and development, biodiversity conservation, improvements in air, land, and water quality, and mineral resources development to ensure food, energy, water, and human security,” he said.

Lotilla said the DENR remains committed to a science-based, system-oriented, and integrated eco -

ERC set to issue ESS guidelines

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) will soon issue its own guidelines covering Energy Storage Systems (ESS).

“The ERC is currently deliberating on the draft rules on ESS, which will define the playing field for the next decade,” ERC chairman Francis Saturnino Juan said. ESS captures energy and store it for later use. ESS technologies include battery energy storage systems, flywheel and compressed air, among others.

The ERC chief stressed that these rules will enable fair market access for storage, whether as a generation asset, a transmission asset, a distribution asset, or simply an asset or device. The rules aim to establish clear guidelines on ownership models, connection agreements, and safety standards.

Juan shared this during the recent Energy Storage Summit Asia 2025, organized by the Philippine Solar and Storage Energy Alliance (Pssea). The ERC chief emphasized the vital role of ESS in efficiently and reliably integrating renewable energy (RE) in the generation mix and unlocking a resilient, decarbonized future.

In his keynote address, Juan underscored the rising demand for electricity as the Philippine economy expands, industries modernize and people gain greater access to cutting edge technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs) and data centers. Simultaneously, the Philippines has amplified its efforts towards renewable energy transition.

“We have targeted to achieve a renewable energy share of 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040. These ambitious yet essential goals are crucial for securing a low-carbon, inclusive, and competitive future. However, the challenge we face is no longer about generating clean power. Instead, it lies in how we store, balance, and deliver it reliably — day and night, during calm seas or typhoons, and across more than 7,000 islands,” Juan noted.

The ERC is, likewise, reviewing existing market and technical regulations — including the Philippine Grid Code (PGC), Philippine Distribution Code (PDC), and Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) rules—to integrate grid-forming inverters and synthetic inertia into system planning; specify dispatch and scheduling protocols for ESS within the WESM; establish distributionlevel interconnection and smart-metering requirements; and strengthen data exchange, cybersecurity, and safety standards for ESS operations.

Juan noted that the Philippines has made significant progress in adopting energy storage, from the long-operating Kalayaan Pumped Storage Power Plant to the most recent Green Energy Auction Program, where many RE projects now integrate storage components.

“The era of passive consumption is over.

We are now in the age of active, intelligent energy management. The ESS is no longer a piece of hardware; it is the beating heart of the new grid,” the ERC chief emphasized. Lenie Lectura

system management approach to policy development and program implementation.

He admitted that many areas in environmental protection and conservation, as well as natural resource utilization, need improvement.

However, he said there are also some noticeable improvements, citing increased forest cover and air quality over the years.

“Insofar as forest cover, the improvement from 2010 to 2020 has been a 5.6 percent increase, and the NAMRIA is scheduled to release the new or updated land cover report for 2025, and we anticipate an even more positive report insofar as forest cover is concerned,” he said.

“In terms of particulate matter, there’s an improvement between 2017 to 2024 nationwide; the total suspended particulates improved by 42 percent, and in Metro Manila,” he said. “Of course, these have been achieved over time, not overnight.

Given the scale and complexity, we seek the continued support of this honorable committee in advancing our mission to protect, conserve, and manage the country’s environment and natural resources,” he said.

Undersecretary for Policy, Planning, and International Affairs

Jonas R. Leones said the National Greening Program (NGP), the flagship reforestation program of the DENR, is not just about reforestation, but is also in response to climate change, and doubles as a livelihood and food security program.

Leones was responding to Legarda’s query as to the original objective and purpose of the NGP, and asked about budget allocations for the NGP over the year since the program started.

Undersecretary Analiza R. Teh said a total of P62 billion has been allocated by the government for the NGP and E-NGP since 2011.

“From 2011 to 2016, a total of P32 billion has been spent. For the Enhanced NGP from 2017 to 2025,

an additional P28 billion has been allocated, which translates to over 2.2 million hectares planted or reforested with 1.8 million trees,” says Teh.

For the NGP, much of these budget allocations were devoted to the terrestrial environment and the species planted are mostly native species. Under the NGP, agroforestry crops that include bamboo were also planted.

Legarda, noted that while huge amounts of money were spent on reforestation of the terrestrial environment, very little was spent on coastal reforestation and criticized the DENR for allowing mangrove reforestation in ecosystems where they are not supposed to exist, such as mudflats and seagrass beds.

Legarda also expressed disbelief that of the 2.2 million hectares of denuded and degraded forest areas that have been reforested, only 14,800 hectares are in coastal areas, and 77,000 hectares are beach forests.

Five more Cebu BPOs face DOLE investigation over safety violations

FIVE more Cebu-based business process outsourcing (BPO) companies have been added to the Department of Labor and Employment’s (Dole) list of establishments to be investigated for possible violations of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Law.

BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN)Cebu Spokesperson John Kyle Enero said on Wednesday that the group has now identified a total of 28 BPO companies that may have violated safety standards and labor rights during and after the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu on September 30.

“Our initial announcement to the public was that 10 BPO companies were potentially liable for violating OSH standards and labor rights. On October 6, that number rose to 23, and as of now, our total count is 28,” Enero said during a Senate hearing.

“We have a copy of the list of companies with potential violations of OSH standards. We want these firms to be included on Dole’s list

for investigation during inspections.”

The updated list will be forwarded to DOLE for formal investigation in its upcoming inspections.

Last week, a group of BPO employees flagged 10 BPO firms for violating safety protocols after several agents were reportedly forced to report for duty during the earthquake.

According to the group, emergency exits of their working floors were blocked, preventing them from leaving the building. Retaliatory actions, including sanctions, loss of incentives and explanation notices were supposedly issued to employees who refuse to work.

On October 6, DOLE issued suspended the operations of a BPO company, until it has addressed the unsafe conditions and labor violations that pose danger to its workers. The order was lifted on Thursday after the company complied with the agency’s requirements.

“We observed many issues during our inspections of some BPOs. For instance,

DA seeks Sida amendment

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) wants to amend the decade-old Sugarcane Industry Development Act (Sida) to bolster farm productivity and eventually stamp out importation.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. called on lawmakers to revise the existing sugar law to cater to other projects that would boost the country’s output of the sweetener, particularly zeroing in on irrigation.

“We have to amend the Sida law [...] that would allow for more flexibility,” Tiu Laurel said during a Senate hearing on the proposed budget of the DA on Wednesday.

“What we clearly need in our sugar industry is irrigation. If we irrigate all our sugar lands, it will only cost P8.8 billion. Then there’s a chance we won’t need to import anymore because we’ll be producing [more].”

He also stressed the importance of liming because much of the soil planted for sugarcane is acidic, which could be detrimental to plant growth.

Liming is a process that increases the pH level in soil, thus reducing the acidity and enhancing soil health.

“So, we have to put lime for maximum production. We also have to invest in research and development to get new planting materials,” Tiu Laurel said.

The Sida earmarks an annual P2 billion budget for the sugar industry, half of which should bankroll infrastructure support programs, including farm-to-mill roads.

The remaining amount will be shared

by four projects: 15 percent for grants to block farms; 15 percent for socialized credit; 15 percent for research and development, capability building, and technology transfer activities; and 5 percent for scholarship grants.

Budget documents, however, showed that the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) has only received P1 billion since 2023, and even less than that since 2019.

For SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona, the funding allocated to Sida should be augmented.

“We suggest increasing the funding to maybe P5 billion,” Azcona said during the Senate hearing.

He noted that half of the budget would still be allotted to farm-to-mill roads, while the remaining should cover modernization initiatives for the industry.

“There are still quite a few roads that need to be built, and we would also like to include the modernization of sugar mills and farm mechanization.”

The House of Representatives recently allocated an additional P1.4 billion to the SRA, which puts the agency’s proposed budget at P2.4 billion for 2026.

This figure is a fraction of the realigned P255 billion funding by the House, which was originally allotted for flood control projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways.

Sida or Republic Act 10659 was signed into law in 2015 to promote the competitiveness of the sugarcane industry and maximize the utilization of sugarcane resources. Ada Pelonia

DOE to conduct special WTE auction next year

By Lenie Lectura @llectura

THE Department of Energy (DOE) will seek bids for 335 megawatt (MW) capacity to be generated from waste-toenergy (WTE) power facilities in January next year.

The agency said on Thursday it will conduct a special auction round specifically designed for WTE projects that will source their waste feedstock within Metro Manila and Highly Urbanized Cities (HUCs) areas, and with target completion date by the fourth quarter 2027.

Energy Undersecretary Mylene Capongocol said the 335MW capacity is an initial estimate that was based on 2024 Solid Waste Generation data of the National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC), which said that Metro Manila and HUCs generate an estimated 6.12 million metric tons of municipal solid waste, equivalent to 335 MW base load.

The notice of auction and terms of reference are scheduled for issuance within the month.

Interested parties will be given

sufficient time to comply with the green energy auction (GEA) registration requirements prior to the auction proper in January next year.

In addition, the DOE announced that there will be a succeeding auction round for biomass and WTE technologies targeted by second quarter of next year which will cover biomass and WTE projects to be located all over the country.

As an emerging renewable energy technology, WTE project development is one of the country’s strategies to address solid waste management, serve as flood control mitigation, and provide additional clean energy.

This initiative is aligned with the objectives of the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) and the government’s renewable energy targets of 35 percent in the energy mix by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.

“The integration of WTE projects into the GEA framework underscores the DOE’s commitment to ensuring energy security, environmental protection, and private sector participation in the country’s transitioning to clean and sustainable energy,” the agency said.

their emergency lighting systems were not working. That’s a major concern during emergencies, especially since we know BPOs operate at night,” Dole-7 Regional Director Roy Buenafe said.

According to Buenafe, the agency has so far completed the inspection of two of the six BPO companies that are under DOLE’s initial list for allegedly violating OSH protocols. He added that all six cases were expected to be processed by the end of the day, noting that some firms had yet to comply with the orders.

Sen. Raffy Tulfo instructed the labor department to discuss with other government agencies the filing of an illegal detention case against the BPO companies who prevented workers from using their building’s emergency exits.

“Coordinate with other law enforcement agencies or other government agencies na pwedengmagfilengkaso.Illegal detention, I want it filed,” Tulfo said.

Ma. Alyanna Selda

TBy Carmel Pedroza

HE provincial government of Cebu is set to release total of P508 million in recovery and rehabilitation funds to be used for the 12 quake-hit local governments in the northern portion of the province.

This was announed by Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro.

Of the amount P120 million will be given to the 12 local governments (P10 million pesos each) for their infrastructure and rehabilitation.

AnotherP38 million will also be given to them atP3 million pesos for each town P5 million pesos for Bogo City, the ground zero of the tremblor.

Baricuatro added that another P350 million will also be released for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of roads and bridges.

The provincial government will also allocate the P200 million for each affected locl government, whose funds come from the Office of the President under the local government support fund.

Self-Defense Force will provide support to transport relief supplies within the Philippines, in response to the request from the Philippines, for the relief operations responding to the earthquake in Cebu that occurred late on September 30,” it said.

“The Japan-Philippines RAA will also be applied to this transport of relief supplies.”

On Sept. 30, Tokyo and Manila convened the Joint Committee meeting on RAA, where arrangements to implement the deal were discussed among officials of the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Defense for Japan, and the Department of National Defense and other relevant Philippine agencies.

The arrangements will pave the way for the smooth conduct of cooperative activities such as joint exercises and disaster relief operations by both countries while enhancing interoperability between their respective forces.

“Amid an increasingly challenging regional security environment, security and defense cooperation with the Philippines —a strategic partner sharing fundamental values and principles with Japan, which is located at a point of strategic importance on sea lanes— will be further promoted,” it said.

“This will provide robust support for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.”

The RAA was ratified by President Marcos and was concurred in by the Senate on December 16, 2024.

It entered into force on Sept. 11, 2025. With PNA

Assistant Provincial Administrator Aldwin Empaces cited that following a rapid assessment from their provincial engineers, they have identified a total ofP100 million worth in infrastructure damage which include major bridges and roads.

Empaces said the governor has requested the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to take care of the national roads and

several areas or districts, or provinces cited for a nuclear site? Binabaha tayo may bundok tayo, may katutubo tayo,” Legarda told Lotilla, who was a former Secretary of Energy (DOE).

Lotilla, who is also from Antique, said the identification of possible nuclear energy sites in the Philippines was made by an interagency body, but said that, as DOE, he is not privy to the science behind the selection process.

“There’s an interagency on the nuclear program chaired by the DOE that has been conducting studies, and Antique was identified as a possible site. In addition, the interagency is looking for other sites,” says Lotilla.

He said that from the DENR standpoint, he will depend on the government’s direction through Congress.

Nevertheless, he said, should Congress decide to move ahead to implement the nuclear program, he vowed to enhance the capacity of the DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) in line with its regulatory function that

bridges while they also take care of the repairs for the provincial roads and bridges that are worth P13 million pesos and below. Power in the 12 affected localities have been 100 percent restored five days after the earthquake.

Water supply has also been restored but some areas in Bogo City and Tabuelan will still experience water supply concerns since their water distributions system are still undergoing repairs.

Task force

TASK Force Kumbati Cebu (Fight Cebu) was also activated to address the housing and other needs for the recovery and rehabilitation efforts.

The task force aims to centralize all recovery and rehabilitation efforts to involve the mayors of the affected localities. This will include the discussion on relocation of those families whose houses were deemed unsafe and what proper housing assistance will be given to them. The provincial government has identified 4,826 totally damaged houses and 45,285 partially damaged houses.

B aricuatro said they have tapped former governor Hilario Davide III to be an advisor for the task force with the private sector sitting as co-chairman.

She said she wants to ensure accountability of all their efforts including the donations coming from the private sector.

includes the issuance of the environmental compliance certificate (ECC). But Legarda reiterated her opposition to the plan. “May I know which government agency studied it? Antique was among the less than 10 areas where a nuclear power plant would possibly be constructed. I am not in favor, and I am not alone. I will block it every step of the way. Whichever agency, I will stop it,” she said. Lotilla promised to look into Legarda’s query and vowed to find out more from the interagency committee and provide more information to the lawmaker.

He said even as DOE Secretary then, he was not aware of the details because what the interagency body had was a mere survey of what the suitable site.

He added that he has no access to the specific studies that came up with Antique as a possible nuclear energy site.

“In the past, there was a study on the northern part of Antique, but it did not push through. Even before the declaration of a Protected Area, there, at that time, there was consideration of fault line and so on,” he shared. Jonathan L. Mayuga

Editor: Angel R. Calso

Breakthrough in

Gaza: Trump says Israel, Hamas have agreed to the ‘first phase’ of his peace plan

By The Associated Press

UNITED STATES

President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the “first phase” of his peace plan to pause fighting and release at least some hostages and prisoners, in a major breakthrough in the two-yearold war.

“This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace,” Trump wrote on social media.

Hamas will release all 20 living hostages in the coming days in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, while the Israeli military will begin a withdrawal from the majority of Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on social media, “With God’s help we will bring them all home.” Hamas said separately that the deal would ensure the withdrawal of Israeli troops as well as allow for the entry of aid and exchange of hostages and prisoners.

Here’s the latest:

Exhausted Palestinians welcome peace deal with mix of hope and skepticism

EXHAUSTED and hardened by months of brutal bombings, some Palestinians were skeptical yet impatient to see the first phase of the Trump peace plan come into effect, just hours after the agreement between Israel and Hamas was announced.

Paramedic Saeed Awad said he was first skeptical about the possibility of a ceasefire because of previous failed attempts to end the war.

“They all ended in failure. So, we didn’t really pay attention to this (round),” he said.

When he first heard the news, Awad said, he had to check with others, seeking confirmation.

“We have been in this war and in this suffering for two years,” Awad said. Alaa Abd Rabbo, displaced from northern Gaza to Deir al-Balah, said the ceasefire deal is “a Godsend day of relief.”

He said he has been displaced from his home several times, to different parts of Gaza.

“We are tired. We have been displaced and this is the day we have been waiting for,” Abd Rabbo said.

“We want to go home, to tend to our affairs, to check on our homes. Even though there are no more homes, but we still want to go home. We want to work. We have been sleeping and staying on the streets.”

World leaders are praising peace deal

WORLD leaders have praised the peace agreement in Gaza brokered by Donald Trump.

Argentine President Javier Milei applauded the deal Wednesday, calling it historic, and said he would nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed relief that hostages will soon be reunited with their families and called on all parties to implement the agreed terms swiftly.

On Thursday, New Zealand’s government welcomed the announcement of the deal. Foreign Minister Winston Peters said Israelis and Palestinians have suffered immensely and that, “Today is a positive first step in bringing that suffering to an end.”

Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi also welcomed the agreement as a “major step” toward calming the situation and achieving a two-state settlement.

Israeli military says northern Gaza remains a ‘dangerous combat zone’

THE Israeli military warned Palestinians in Gaza against returning north to Gaza City or approaching areas where troops are stationed until further notice.

Israel’s Arabic language spokesperson Avichay Adraee issued the warning on X, hours after Hamas and Israel agreed to the first phase of the Trump plan to pause the fighting and release hostages and prisoners.

“For your safety, refrain from returning north or approaching areas where (troops) are stationed or operating throughout” Gaza, he said. Adraee said northern Gaza is “still considered a dangerous combat zone.”

Journalists in Gaza City celebrate peace deal

IN Gaza City, where bombings had been heard in the early hours of Thursday before news of the deal, a few journalists roamed the dark streets of the city, shouting in jubilation that “the war has ended,” according to a video they posted on social media.

The journalists, laughing and jumping, shouted that most people who remained in the city have no Internet and needed to be woken up to hear the news. In the south of Gaza, a group of young men lifted another journalist on their shoulders as he broadcast the news to his channel, celebrating the ceasefire.

The journalist posted a video of the interaction on his social media.

The men also performed a traditional Palestinian dance, Debka, on the streets, while singing. Communications and internet connection has been

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Gaza. . . Continued from A7

badly severed by the war, and large parts of Gaza had no connection, particularly during the night.

UNGA president says ceasefire agreement must lead to immediate aid deliveries

ANNALENA BAERBOCK said the agreement announced by Trump finally offers “a ray of hope after more than 700 days of death, destruction and despair.”

She said the moment must be seized to fully implement the agreement, end the war in Gaza, release all hostages and ensure “the immediate and unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid.”

Baerbock said many world leaders at their recent meeting in the United Nations General Assembly stressed that a permanent ceasefire can open a path to peace, end Hamas’ rule in Gaza and Israel’s occupation, and lead to a twostate solution, the only way Israelis and Palestinians can live in lasting peace and security.

The former German foreign minister commended the US, Qatar, Egypt, Turkey and the many others involved “for their efforts to bring the suffering of Israeli hostages and Palestinian civilians to an end.”

Hostage families chant ‘Nobel prize to Trump’ in Tel Aviv FAMILIES of hostages and their supporters started chanting “Nobel prize to Trump” as they gathered in the early hours of the morning in Tel Aviv’s hostages square.

People gathered there after the agreement was announced, with freed hostages and families of those still captive cheering, singing and crying at the news.

Israeli ambassador says end of hostilities in Gaza depends on first-stage implementation

Israeli Ambassador to the US Yechiel Leiter told CNN that living hostages held by Hamas would be released on Sunday or Monday—with a 72-hour clock for Hamas to make the release beginning once the Israeli Cabinet meets, Thursday afternoon or evening, to approve the list of Palestinian prisoners to be released in the agreement.

Leiter said that Israel hopes the deal will lead to an end to the war, but that will depend on how well it is implemented.

“We hope it leads to a complete cessation of hostilities and a rebuilding of Gaza for the sake of the Gazans and for the sake of Israel,” he said.

“But it’s the first stage, and we’ve got to see the first stage implemented completely in the next few days.”

Leiter, whose eldest son was killed in

RELATIVES and supporters of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip celebrate after the announcement that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace plan, as they gather at a plaza known as the hostages square in Tel Aviv, Israel, Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. AP/EMILIO MORENATTI

the war while serving in the Israeli forces, credited Israeli military pressure with bringing Hamas to the negotiating table after two years of conflict.

Hostages to be ‘probably’

released Monday, Trump says IN an interview on Fox News, Trump said

that Hamas will begin releasing hostages “probably” on Monday.

“This is more than Gaza,” Trump told host Sean Hannity in a telephone interview. “This is peace in the Middle East.”

Trump also said a future Gaza will be a “peaceful, much safer place” and that the US would remain involved to ensure its safety and prosperity.

for doing everything you can to bring them home,” the statement reads.

Jubilation in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square

JOYFUL hostage families and their supporters began spilling into the central Tel Aviv square that has become the main gathering point in the struggle to free the captives.

Some popped open a bottle of champagne and cheered.

Crying tears of joy, families hugged previously released hostages as the square continued to fill with Israelis.

Family campaigns against release of Palestinian prisoner

JAMAL AL-HUR is a high-profile Palestinian prisoner rumored to be released in the upcoming deal.

Isidore Karten, whose uncle was killed by Al-Hur in 1996, said Wednesday that while the family is “extremely thankful for the Trump administration” and are “extremely happy” for the hostages and their families, they fear that the deal could be done in a way that risks the repetition of the October 7 attack.

“Other countries in the area will help it reconstruct because they have tremendous wealth,” Trump said, adding: “We’ll be involved in helping them make it successful and helping it stay peaceful.”

Trump confirmed that he spoke to Netanyahu earlier Wednesday night.

The prime minister told him, “I can’t believe it,” according to the president’s retelling.

“I said, ‘Israel cannot fight the world, Bibi, they can’t fight the world,’ and he understands that very well,” Trump said.

Israeli Army welcomes agreement, prepares for ‘any scenario’

THE Israeli Army released a statement Wednesday that it “welcomes the signing of the agreement for the return of the hostages.”

According to the statement, the Chief of the General Staff instructed all forces “to prepare strong defenses and be ready for any scenario.”

Israeli hostage families in Washington thank Trump RELATIVES of Israeli hostages who came to Washington to mark the two-year anniversary of the Oct. 7 attack released a statement praising Trump for the deal.

“Thank you, the Trump administration

Karten’s family has been campaigning against the release of Al-Hur for the last few days.

Father of hostage says deal could have come earlier YEHUDA COHEN, father of hostage Nimrod said this moment is what they’d been waiting for.

“It could have come much earlier. Let this next three days pass with no one trying to sabotage it,” he said. Hostages ‘aware of their pending freedom,’ former hostage says Omer Shemtov, a hostage who was freed earlier this year, told reporters that based on his personal experience, he believed the hostages were aware of their pending freedom.

“I believe they know and that they are very excited.”

Israeli hostage families welcome Gaza breakthrough EINAV ZANGAUKER, the mother of captive Matan and a prominent advocate for the hostages’ freedom, told reporters she wants to tell her son she loves him. “I want to smell his smell,” she said

Ukraine’s missiles and drones cause gas shortages in Russia, Zelenskyy says

By Hanna Arhirova The Associated Press

KYIV, Ukraine—Strikes on Russian oil facilities by Ukraine’s newly developed long-range missiles and drones are causing significant gas shortages in Russia, while on the battlefield a recent Ukrainian counter-offensive has derailed Russia’s plans to capture parts of the eastern Donetsk region, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says.

Ukraine’s new Palianytsia missile has hit dozens of Russian military depots, Zelenskyy said. The Ruta missile drone, meanwhile, recently struck a Russian offshore oil platform more than 250 kilometers (150 miles) away in what Zelenskyy called “a major success” for the new weapon.

Also, swarms of Liutyi and Fire Point long-range drones—up to 300 units in one operation—have hit Russian energy facilities, and Ukrainian forces recently fired Neptune and Flamingo missile systems at Russia, the Ukrainian leader said.

Gaza. . .

Continued from A8

through tears. “If I have one dream it is seeing Matan sleep in his own bed.”

A forum of hostage families said they met the news with “excitement, anticipation and apprehension.”

“This represents important and meaningful progress toward bringing everyone home, but our struggle is not over and will not end until the last hostage returns,” it said in a statement.

Some supporters gathered in a square in Tel Aviv after the announcement came overnight. Others posted messages online.

Hamas official says Palestinian prisoner list handed over

A SENIOR Hamas official said the group has handed over a list of Palestinian prisoners who will be released as part of the ceasefire deal.

Zaher Jabarin, who oversees Palestinian prisoners’ affairs, said in a statement the list was prepared in accordance with “the criteria agreed upon in the agreement.”

He said the group still “awaiting final agreement on the names,” and that they will be announced “once the relevant procedures and understandings are completed.”

Palestinian aid coordinator says joy mixed with sorrow

EYAD AMAWI, a Palestinian aid coordinator displaced in central Gaza, says he has mixed feelings of happiness and sadness over the ceasefire deal.

“We believe and don’t believe. We have mixed feelings, between happiness and sadness, memories, everything is mixed,” he said.

Amawi said he hopes the deal is implemented as agreed so that people can return to their homes and begin to “renew the (will) and the hope for life” in Gaza where many children are injured and rubble is everywhere.

His biggest fear, he said, is Israel putting obstacles to implementing the agreement.

The eyes of the Palestinians in Gaza are on how the world will help Gaza to rebuild.

“We need to fix everything here, especially the psychological effects to (continue) with our lives.”

Amawi said the priority for him and

Russian fuel shortages and higher imports indicate that Ukraine’s attacks are working, Zelenskyy said at a news briefing Wednesday. His remarks were embargoed until Thursday.

“The main thing is that (Russia is) now importing gasoline— that’s a signal,” he said. Ukrainian intelligence reports show Russia has boosted imports from Belarus sixfold and removed import duties, while also bringing in fuel from China.

“According to our data, they’ve lost up to 20% of their gasoline supply—precisely after our strikes,”

everyone else is the return of the displaced to their homes.

He plans to return to Gaza City as soon as the deal takes effect to resume his work and life, and help with the rehabilitation of the city.

He said the news of the deal came late in Gaza, so most people were asleep.

“The celebrations will be great. But also the sadness and the worries will be great also,” he said.

To the world, Amawi said: “We need you.”

‘I can’t believe the news,’ Palestinian man says A Palestinian man, Ayman Saber, reacted to the ceasefire announcement.

The Khan Younis resident said he plans to return to his home in the city and try to rebuild his house, which was destroyed in an Israeli strike last year.

“I will rebuild the house, we will rebuild Gaza,” he said.

Grandson of slain and released hostages thanks Trump

DANIEL LIFSHITZ, whose grandmother was freed and grandfather was killed in captivity, on Wednesday thanked world leaders for helping secure the newly signed agreement to release all hostages held in Gaza.

“We express our deepest gratitude as the historic agreement has been signed—the hostages, our brothers and sisters, are coming home,” Lifshitz said in a statement.

He thanked Trump for his “decisive leadership and unwavering commitment to bringing every hostage back within 72 hours,” and also praised the roles of Egyptian, Turkish and Qatari leaders and negotiators, citing their “personal dedication and relentless efforts.”

Lifshitz also expressed appreciation to Israel’s negotiation team and Netanyahu “for their determination and courage in achieving this vital agreement.”

From the 20 hostages returned, four are from his community including lifelong friends. “This united cooperation and shared moral responsibility have proven that when the right people stand together, humanity prevails” he said.

Displaced Palestinian man waits to return home

“IT’S a huge day, huge joy,” Ahmed Sheheiber, a displaced Palestinian man from northern

Zelenskyy said. Russian officials have made no public comment about possible gas shortages.

The successes with weapons designed and manufactured by Ukraine are a welcome development for Kyiv after more than three years of fighting Russia’s invasion, as Moscow deploys its bigger army and economic resources in an attempt to crush its neighbor.

Ukraine has received Western

Gaza, said of the ceasefire deal.

Crying over the phone from his shelter in Gaza City, he said he is waiting “impatiently” for the ceasefire to go into effect to return to his home in the Jabaliya refugee camp.

UN welcomes Gaza peace agreement as ‘desperately needed breakthrough’

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres welcomed the agreement between Israel and Hamas late Wednesday to begin the initial phase of a US-brokered peace deal while urging all parties to “abide fully by the terms of the agreement.”

Guterres said that the UN will support the full implementation of the agreement and has been ready to scale up delivery of humanitarian aid in Gaza that has been sitting on the borders of Jordan and Egypt.

“I urge all stakeholders to seize this momentous opportunity to establish a credible political path forward towards ending the occupation, recognizing the right to selfdetermination of the Palestinian people, and achieving a two-state solution that enables Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security,” he said.

Netanyahu, Trump talked about ‘historic achievement,’ Israeli leader’s office says

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with President Donald Trump, and they congratulated each other on an agreement to release all the hostages which Netanyahu’s office described as a “historic achievement”

According to a statement from the prime minister’s office, the conversation was “warm and moving.”

Netanyahu thanked Trump for his “efforts and global leadership,” while Trump praised Netanyahu’s “determined leadership and the actions he led.”

Deal to head to Israeli Cabinet for approval

THE agreement will head to the Israeli Cabinet on Thursday for its approval, and once that occurs, Israeli forces will begin withdrawing to the agreed upon boundary, according to a senior White House official. That should take less than 24 hours, according to the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss planning.

military aid but has been frustrated by restrictions imposed by the United States and European allies on deep strikes into Russia, out of fear of escalating the war.

Ukraine has poured huge efforts into weapons development and has fast become a global center for defense innovation.

Zelenskyy said he wants the United States to provide Ukraine with additional long-range weapons, specifically naming American-made Tomahawk missiles

Hamas then has 72 hours to release hostages, and the White House believes they will begin being released on Monday, the official said.

Hamas to release all 20 living hostages this weekend

HAMAS plans to release all 20 living hostages this weekend, people familiar with the matter told The Associated Press. The deceased hostages will come out in a later stage in phases. The Israel army will move out of 70% of the area, they said.

It was not immediately clear whether the parties had made any progress on thornier questions about the future of the conflict, including whether Hamas will demilitarize, as Trump has demanded, and eventual governance of the war-torn territory. But the agreement nonetheless marked the most momentous development since a deal in January and February that involved the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Netanyahu will convene Israeli government tomorrow

ISRAEL i Prime Minister Netanyahu said he would convene the government tomorrow in order to approve the deal.

“I thank President Trump and his team from the bottom of my heart for their commitment to this sacred mission of freeing our hostages,” Netanyahu said.

Trump pleased with Kushner, Witkoff for getting deal closed

TRUMP was pleased with Jared Kushner and special envoy Steve Witkoff for their work to get the first phase of the agreement closed after arriving in Egypt on earlier on Wednesday, according to a person who has briefed on the negotiations and spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the delicate negotiations.

In the leadup to Wednesday’s announcement, Israeli officials were pushing back on inclusion of Marwan Barghouti, the most prominent Palestinian prisoner who is serving five life sentences in an Israeli jail, the person added.

Israeli officials made clear to the US that the release of Barghouti would set off the far-right members of Netanyahu’s coalition.

that can carry large warheads but which Washington has previously refused to provide.

US President Donald Trump, who has been frustrated in his efforts to end the war by Russian objections, said earlier this week that he has “sort of made a decision” on whether to send Tomahawks to Ukraine. He did not elaborate.

“At the last meeting I did not hear ‘no,’” Zelenskyy said of his request for Tomahawks, adding that

It was not immediately clear which Palestinian prisoners, including Barghouti, will be included in the first phase of the deal.

Hamas says deal reached to end war in Gaza

HAMAS says a deal has been reached to end the war in Gaza that will ensure the withdrawal of Israeli troops as well as the entry of aid and the exchange of hostages and prisoners.

The group said in a statement the deal came after “responsible and serious negotiations” over the proposal by President Donald Trump. Hamas called on Trump and the mediators to ensure that Israel implements all the provisions agreed upon without delay or changes.

Qatar says Israel, Hamas agree on first phase of Gaza ceasefire deal.

Qatar Foreign Ministry spokesman says Israel and Hamas reached an agreement on all the provisions and implementation mechanisms of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal.

The agreement “will lead to ending the war, the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, and the entry of aid,” said Majed al-Ansari, Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesman, speaking on behalf of the mediators of the deal. He said the

US officials had agreed to work on the question at a technical level.

A delegation led by Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko is due to travel to the US early next week for talks about air defense, energy cooperation, sanctions and the use of frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s war effort.

On the battlefield, Zelenskyy said the most intense fighting remains around Pokrovsk and Dobropillia in the eastern Donetsk region, where Ukrainian troops have launched a counter-offensive operation he described as “very difficult but very timely—and successful.”

“This operation derailed Russia’s summer offensive campaign,” he said, adding that what he said was Moscow’s plan to occupy much of the Donetsk region by November had failed.

Russian commanders have been ordered “to take Pokrovsk at any cost,” he said, citing intercepted Russian military communications. Zelenskyy also said Ukraine has contingency plans to protect its natural gas infrastructure, which has been the target of heavy Russian attacks in recent weeks as winter approaches.

“We have Plan A and Plan B,” he said. “Plan A is to rely more on our own extraction. Plan B … is to switch to imports. We understand the volumes, the cost of those imports, and where to get the necessary funds.”

details will be announced later.

Group representing hostage families receive ceasefire news with ‘excitement’

THE Hostages Families Forum, a grassroots organization representing many of the hostage families, said it received the news of a ceasefire with “excitement, anticipation, and apprehension.”

The Forum called on the Israeli government to immediately convene to approve the deal, and praised Trump for his “commitment and determination that led to this historic breakthrough.”

Trump says Israel, Hamas have agreed to ‘first phase’ of his peace plan

US President Donald Trump has announced that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the “first phase” of his peace plan to pause fighting and release at least some hostages and prisoners.

“This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace,” Trump wrote late Wednesday.

WORKERS inspect a Flamingo cruise missile at Fire Point’s secret factory in Ukraine on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025. AP/EFREM LUKATSKY

A10 Friday, October 10, 2025

“Personally, I will recommend to the Blue Ribbon and to ICI to investigate as well the FMRs,” said the senator.

As a result of the overprice of FMRs that has alarmed Secretary Laurel, many of the farm-

as the new Ombudsman will help boost the business confidence in the Philippines as a reliable investment destination.

He said it will address the two main concerns of local and foreign business chambers when conducting transactions in the country—corruption and red tape--by ensuring government funds are not spent on substandard or nonexistent public works.

“I believe the negativity is overblown. This investigation will be good for the country long-term because it will address and correct the wrong practices,” Go said.

“Better deployment of the budget will result in projects with greater multiplier effect, bring -

The industry group said it is “highly irregular” that DOLE Region 7 conducted an inspection of a company supposedly included in the alleged work stoppage order only in the evening after the Senate inquiry.

“This was reported to IBPAP as the inspection was happening in

to-market roads have ended up below the originally intended specifications: a 10-kilometer FMR, for instance, would be built only as a 2-km road to fit the budget while allowing for the overprice and kickbacks.

Gatchalian said both House and Senate budget probers were inclined to transfer the funds for projects that DPWH is doing to

ing about better effects on the economy and jobs created. So while this may be a short-term issue, it definitely will have long-term benefits,” he added.

Strong interests

GO said the anti-corruption probe on public works has not made a significant dent on the business pledges received by the country, as the government was able to put in place pro-investor measures such as the Republic Act (RA) No. 12066 or the CREATE MORE Act, RA No. 11966 or the Public-Private Partnership Code, and the green lane for strategic investments under Executive Order No. 18.

“We’re quite confident that when this is all resolved, they will all come back. So, they have not pulled out. They will continue rather, that they will continue with

Cebu. The fact that a BIEN representative accompanied DOLE during this inspection raises questions about impartiality, given BIEN’s highly biased stance against IT-BPM employers for alleged violations of employee safety standards,” it said.

“We therefore urge the Department of Labor and Employment [DOLE] to investigate this matter thoroughly and issue a clarificatory statement on how it is being

the agencies that require the infrastructure. The DND, he said, has “no problem” handling their infrastructure needs as they have engineering brigades, but the DA is still assessing its capacity to supervise the construction of FMRs by private bidders.

Still, he explained, the option of leaving the FMR funds with DPWH is risky, fearing that “the

their project,” he said.

“By enhancing the effectiveness of public spending, we are turning a short-term challenge into an opportunity to reallocate funds to projects with a far greater growth and employment multiplier effect.

This is the clearest signal that the Philippines is building a futureready economy, anchored on trust and sustainable growth,” he added.

In fact, he said they will soon be transmitting to the Office of the President their approval of the first beneficiary of the CREATE MORE Act.

The beneficiary is a Korean semiconductor and electronics company, which will make an over US$1-billion dollars investment in the country.

“The FIRB [Foreign Investment Review Board] will be transmitting this to the Office of the President

handled. Furthermore, we insist that DOLE Region 7 rectify its records and remove the names of companies that were included in the report submitted to the Senate Committee on Labor and Employment,” it added.

‘Documented incidents’ “THERE was an earthquake. There were evacuation failures. There were workers forced to return to their stations while aftershocks continued,” BIEN said. “These are not rumors. They are documented incidents, supported by workers’ testimonies, photos, videos, and reports from multiple Cebu BPO sites.”

same thing will happen.”

During a Senate hearing on the proposed 2026 DA budget on Wednesday, Gatchalian noted the top 10 “extremely overpriced” FMRs last year, with a project worth P348,432 per meter leading the list.

This figure was 96 percent higher than the P15,000 per meter benchmark by the DA. The agency

this week. So, I don’t think we have lost any investment pledges because of this ongoing issue,” Go said.

“Let me assure the public that the SEC remains firmly committed to promoting transparency, good governance, and investor protection. Corruption is indeed a weapon of mass wealth destruction,” Lim said.

Weak integrity, not weak fundamentals

LIM told the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines on Tuesday that investors in the Philippines are not fleeing because of weak fundamentals of the country, but because of weak integrity of its leaders.

“When trust breaks down, capital dries up, and everyone—the government, business and the

The group said labeling these accounts as “unverified” or “misinformation” denies the experiences of workers who feared for their safety.

It added that the incidents showed “clear breaches” of occupational safety and health (OSH) standards.

“When ceilings crack, exits are blocked, and employees are ordered to resume calls despite shaking floors, no amount of corporate spin can erase the fact that OSH standards were violated,” BIEN added.

According to BIEN, IBPAP’s response reflects its intent to “protect industry interests” rather

www.businessmirror.com.ph

said 1 kilometer of FMR costs P15 million.

The DA is asking for P16 billion for FMRs for 2026. “But if we cannot ensure proper use, the 16 billion might be wasted,” he said in Filipino, by way of justifying removal of the outlay from DPWH’s budget. He said that while he admired how DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon is cleaning up the agency, “In my view, Sec. Vince cannot clean up DPWH in 3-4 months—so if the same DPWH people will be working on the FMRs, the 2026 outlay will be lost again to corruption.” He added, ‘It hinges on whether Sec. Vince can assure people that come 2026, they can fix things.”

public—pays the price,” Lim said.

“Let’s face the hard truth. Our stock market is a laggard. Sadly, this reflects something deeper—a crisis of confidence,” Lim said.

“Too many firms still hesitate to go public, while others who have chosen to go public are leaving the stock market. This is not just a market issue. It’s a trust issue. And rebuilding that trust is one of the SEC’s most urgent missions,” he said.

At the moment, there is only one initial public offering— Top Line Business Development Corp.— and possibly another one by Maynilad Water Services Inc. by next month.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index fell on Thursday by 41.34 points to close at 6,057.40 points.

than address the safety concerns of employees.

“IBPAP’s statement exposes who they truly represent: not the 1.9 million workers they claim to speak for, but the business owners and foreign clients whose profits depend on uninterrupted operations, even in the face of danger,” BIEN said.

BIEN added that IBPAP’s concern over reputational harm and investor confidence “misses the point,” noting that the real threat to the industry’s image comes from unsafe workplaces, not from workers speaking out.

“If IBPAP truly values the integrity of the industry, it should

Lim said the agency sees compliance not as a bureaucratic hurdle, but as a leadership advantage, a way to strengthen the very foundation of markets and enterprise.

“Because when markets are trusted, capital flows. And when capital flows, the economy grows,” Lim said.

“That’s why we’re moving boldly by strengthening the independent director system, making REITs [real estate investment trust] more inclusive, pushing PERA [Personal Equity and Retirement Account] reforms and championing financial literacy as a mandatory subject for our students. Because each reform we make is a promise that trust will again be our strongest currency, and that every Filipino, not just a few, will share in the nation’s growth,” Lim said.

hold its member companies accountable instead of gaslighting the very workers who keep this $40-billion sector running,” the group said.

BIEN also urged DOLE to remain firm in enforcing labor standards, saying its role is to protect workers, not companies. It said the work stoppage orders issued in Cebu were a “necessary step” to prevent further harm and compel compliance with safety regulations.

The group added that full transparency is needed by releasing the list of firms found to have violated OSH standards and the corrective actions implemented.

Remulla promises action on flood control ghost projects, Pharmally case review

NBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

EWLY-APPOINTED Om -

budsman Jesus Crispin

Remulla has assured that graft and other related cases may be filed before the Sandiganbayan in the coming weeks against those involved in the multi-billion anomalous flood control projects.

Remulla, who took his oath on Thursday before Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, told reporters that investigators are determined to build strong cases against the perpetrators of the massive corruption involving government projects.

“We’re really just making sure the case is airtight because we don’t want to be the reason for any delay. So, the timeline will depend on that,” Remulla said.

“But, likely within the next few weeks, when we file, we’ll be ready for trial. We’re at the preliminary

investigation stage now. But it’s moving forward,” he added.

Remulla said he would be prioritizing the resolution of cases to be filed in relation to anomalous flood control projects involving officials of the Department of Public Works and highways (DPWH).

“I think we need to focus on that, conduct case build-up, and make sure that well-prepared cases are file either before the Sandiganbayan or the Regional Trial Court, depending on the jurisdiction,” he explained.

Remulla also said that he has already secured the commitment of the Supreme Court through acting Chief Justice Leonen for the conduct of continuous trials involving flood control projects.

“We want these cases to proceed smoothly,” he stressed.

When asked if the Ombudsman will not spare even relatives of President Ferdinand Marcos who will be found to be involved

Lawmaker pushes for national flood insurance to protect Pinoys from climate change impacts

By Jovee Marie Dela Cruz @joveemarie

ALAWMAKER on Thursday filed a bill seeking to establish a national flood insurance program of the government, as response to the aggravating socio-economic challenges confronted by ordinary Filipinos living in highly vulnerable areas.

4Ps Partylist Rep. JC Abalos filed House Bill (HB) No. 5409 said that despite the country’s recurring exposure to flooding, exacerbated by climate change, questionable infrastructure, and rapid urbanization—there is currently no dedicated, nationwide flood insurance program.

“Victims of flooding often rely on postdisaster support mechanisms. Commercial property insurance could be unaffordable for low-income households and small businesses. This situation perpetuates a cycle of loss, poverty, and slow recovery for affected communities,” he said.

“It is very timely to strengthen the government’s flood-risk protection and mitigation efforts. We need to add proactive measures and institutional responses such as the implementation of a National Flood Insurance Program, in order to provide financial protection to the underserved population of our country situated in communities at risk of flood losses,” Abalos added.

Abalos also noted that recent revelations of corruption in flood-control projects highlight the need for institutional and people-centered mechanisms that directly benefit affected citizens.

“Over a trillion has been poured into flood-control projects, yet many

communities remain underwater after every storm.” Abalos said. “A National Flood Insurance Program ensures that people are not left defenseless. It empowers households to recover and rebuild.” he added.

Abalos explained that a flood insurance system will serve as both a social safety net and a transparency mechanism, since verified insurance claims and payout data can also serve as independent indicators of where flood damage actually occurs, and whether government projects are working as intended.

In an article by the Senate Economic Planning Office (SEPO), it briefly discussed the economic impact of flooding and climate related disasters. SEPO cited an estimate of 25% or 10.66 million members of the Filipino workforce relies on climate-sensitive agriculture and fisheries. However, due to frequent typhoons and extreme weather events perpetuates a cycle of disaster and poverty, keeping farmers and fisherfolk sectors among the poorest in the country.

The said planning office further noted that the Philippines incurred PhP 911 billion pesos in economic losses due to extreme weather events and natural disasters from 2000 to 2023.

Last September, the World Risk Report 2025 was released by the Ruhr University in Bochum Germany wherein they discussed the disaster risk for 193 countries worldwide, covering all member states of the United Nations and over 99 percent of the global population. In the said report, the Philippines ranks number 1 among the most disaster-prone country in the world due to high exposure to floods, typhoons, and other natural hazards.

Remote pharmacy supervision approved to tackle the country’s medicine access gaps

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

TO enhance access to essential medicine in isolated parts of the country, the government has allowed the use of “telemedicine” to provide for the manpower needs of more pharmacies without compromising public safety.

President Ferdinand Marcos witnessed the ceremonial signing of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the Regulatory Sandbox Pilot Program for Flexible Supervision of Pharmacies of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), and nine pharmacy chains.

The initiative allows licensed pharmacists to remotely supervise multiple community pharmacies.

“The program aims to address the gap in the availability of registered pharmacists through flexible supervision mechanisms, including telepharmacy and video supervision,” the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said in a statement.

in these anomalies, Remulla said: “We don’t have a choice, evidence is evidence. Can we ignore the evidence if it exists? That’s our challenge, to produce the evidence.”

Former House Speaker and Leyte 1st District Rep. Martin Romualdez, cousin of the President, is under investigation after being accused of receiving kickbacks from flood control projects. At the same time, Remulla said he would look into “forgotten” and aging cases pending before the Office of the Ombudsman such as the Pharmally case.

Former senator and chair of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee Richard Gordon during the 18th Congress earlier urged Remulla to reopen the case which involves the alleged anomalous transfer of P421.4billion COVID funds from the Department of Health to the Department of Budget and Management-Procurement Service for the purchase of P8.6 billion worth

of face masks, face shields, and personal protective equipment during the pandemic.

Gordon expressed belief that former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is currently detained in The Hague, Netherlands, for alleged crimes against humanity in relation to his bloody anti-illegal drug war, can still be held liable for the anomaly.

Former Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, former budget undersecretary Lloyd Christopher Lao and Pharmally official Lin Weixiong have been charged with graft before the Sandiganbayan in connection with the controversy.

It was determined by Remulla’s predecessor, former Ombudsman Samuel Martires, that the funds were transferred during the period of March to December 2020 to PS-DBM to outsource DOH’s procurement of COVID-19 medical supplies and equipment without compliance with the requirements imposed by law. Martires

noted that the rules only allow outsourcing of procurement tasks to another government agency for the purpose of hastening the project implementation.

However, the former Ombudsman pointed out that the arrangement resulted in a more complicated process which was inconsistent with the purpose to hasten project implementation.

“We will look into that because it seems to have been forgotten, buried and left-behind. But, this kind of case should not be forgotten. We know there was a lot of noise around it and many believe something wrong, happened,” Remulla said.

The Senate held hearings, but nothing progressed from there, so we need to revisit it,” he added.

Remulla, however, would not say if the review would cover the possible culpability of Duterte, noting that this would depend on the evidence.

“I’m not sure yet. Actually, I was not able to follow the hearings closely. But of course, it comes up in other forums I’ve been part of. We’re aware of what happened in many ways. But, responsibility will always depend on the evidence. It always comes down to evidence,” he explained.

In his message before administering Remulla’s oath, Justice Leonen urged Remulla to prioritize cases that would address corruption in the country.

“And may you have the wisdom to find and give priority to the strategic cases and issues that would lead to fundamental reform and rid corruption from our society,” Justice Leonen said. Leonen also disclosed that the Court en banc has agreed to create a working committee that will conduct an inventory of all projects within the judiciary that have been contracted to and implemented by the DPWH, if any.

DepEd enhances disaster preparedness, resilience in education after Cebu quake

TBy Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3

HE Department of Education (DepEd) has reinforced its disaster preparedness and response systems through the deployment of rapid assessment teams and the launch of new tools and facilities aimed at strengthening education resilience, following 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Bogo City, Cebu.

Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, said that President Ferdinand “Bongbong’” Marcos Jr. has directed to protect learners and that learning shall continue.

“ Kailangan nating masiguro na makakaresponde ang ating mga paaralan na protektahan ang mga mag-aaral at maipagpatuloy ang edukasyon bago, habang,atmataposanganumangsakuna,” Angara said.

According to DepEd Region VII Director Salustiano Jimenez, the total damage to schools across the province is projected to exceed P1 billion, with more than 50,000 learners and over 1,400 teaching and non-

teaching personnel affected, including nearly 900 in Bogo City.

As response efforts continue, DepEd is also shifting its focus from rapid relief to long-term preparedness.

PlanSmart for Safe Schools

AMONG its major initiatives is PlanSmart for Safe Schools, a web-based contingency planning application developed with support from the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST–Phivolcs) and the World Bank.

The platform integrates hazard and risk data from the GeoRiskPH system, enabling schools to create evidencebased contingency plans aligned with the standards of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

A series of training sessions for the project will begin in November 2025 for 3,012 schools in the Greater Metro Manila area, before its nationwide rollout to build the capacity of school heads and DRRM coordinators.

M7X School Ready Program

IN addition, DepEd will pilot the M7X School Ready Program, an initiative aimed at strengthening earthquake preparedness in public schools and DepEd offices.

Recognizing the imminent threat of a 7.2-magnitude earthquake along the West Valley Fault (WVF), the program introduces a certification system that awards the M7.2 Ready School Seal to schools that complete the checklist on both structural safety and non-structural preparedness.

The pilot phase will prioritize schools in Metro Manila, Region III, and Region IV-A that are situated along or near the WVF.

Manual promoting resilient design

DEPED also introduced the Pillar 1: Safer Learning Facilities Guidebook, a reference manual promoting resilient design, safe site selection, and maintenance practices in line with the Comprehensive School Safety (CSS) Frameworkand the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.

Manila Water switches more facilities to ERC’s enhanced RAP

By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga

MANILA Water said it has added 56 additional facilities to the Energy Regulatory Commission’s Retail Aggregation Program (RAP) as it steps up the company’s sustainable energy adoption.

Based on data from the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), the country has a shortage of 27,500 registered pharmacists. Under Republic Act No. 10918 or the Philippine Pharmacy Act, the government is required to have one registered pharmacist for every pharmacy.

The program is expected to be piloted in Caloocan, Manila, Abra, Ilocos, La Union, Camarines Sur, Quezon, Iloilo, Negros, and Misamis and will last until 2027.

The initiative will run from 2025 to 2027, with potential pilot areas including Caloocan, Manila, Abra, Ilocos, La Union, Camarines Sur, Quezon, Iloilo, Negros, and Misamis. The nine pharmacy chains and communitybased establishments which will participate in the program are Carlos Drugs – Lucena, Inc.; Z.C. Ramthel Corporation (Cecile’s Pharmacy); Actimed, Inc. (Generika Drugstore); Medford RX Solutions, Inc. (MedExpress Drugstore); Mercury Drug Corporation; Rose Pharmacy, Inc.; Southstar Drugstore, Inc.; Joleco Resources, Inc. (St. Joseph Drug); TGP Pharma, Inc.; and Watsons Personal Care Stores (Philippines) Inc.

In a statement, Manila Water said the 56 facilities consist of 10 additional facilities from Manila Water Non-East Zone operating unit Laguna Water, 45 facilities of Estate Water covering Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Metro Manila, and Manila Water Foundation’s La Mesa Ecopark which stands as the first and largest ecopark to be powered entirely by renewable energy under RAP.

The move reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainable operations and innovative energy solutions. Altogether, the transition represents a total demand of 1,682 kW.

This milestone was marked with another RAP switching ceremony held at the La Mesa Ecopark in Quezon City, which is the 4th switching for Manila Water this year.

“Manila Water’s participation in RAP demonstrates its commitment to innovation and consumer empowerment. By aggregating demand and leveraging competitive supply options, Manila Water is helping pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient energy sector.

At the ERC, our mandate is clear: to promote consumer welfare while ensuring a fair and competitive energy market and RAP is a key

component of this vision.” said ERC Director for Market Operations Service Sharon Montaner.

“Since Manila Water’s first switching in February 2025, RAP participation has grown by 70%, a rate faster than RCOA, reflecting greater inclusivity and freedom of choice,” Director Montaner further noted.

The event was also graced by ERC Chair Francis Saturnino Juan, MWSS Corporate Office Department Manager for Policy, Planning, and Public Relations Christian Nicole Baluca, MWSS-RO Legal Affairs Department Manager Crescenciano Minas Jr., PrimElectric Holdings Chief Operating Officer Richard Nethercott, IEMOP Vice President for Administration Sheryll Dy, MERALCO AVP and Head of Enterprise Commercial and Conglomerates Bernice Rama and representatives from the Climate Change and Sustainability Department of the Quezon City Local Government.

With these developments, Manila Water now sources electricity for a total of 214 facilities, representing an aggregated demand of 11 MW. Under the enhanced RAP framework, these facilities are supplied by PrimeRES Energy through Meralco’s distribution network.

“This is all about the power of choice. We have 214 facilities switched now to RAP… and that’s very powerful because at the end of the day, we are held as a utility accountable to the costs that we charge our customers. We’ve tried to rethink our approach towards tariff and our customer base and

really be as sufficient as possible,” says Jocot De Dios, Manila Water President and CEO.

Earlier this year, Manila Water pioneered the country’s first transition to the enhanced Retail Aggregation Program, consolidating ten of its wastewater facilities under a single electricity sourcing. This marked a significant step in leveraging the RAP framework to streamline energy procurement and reduce costs.

Building on this momentum, the Company expanded its aggregation efforts through its operating units. In April, Laguna Aquatech facilitated the switch of 25 facilities, representing a combined demand of 900 kW. Additionally, Laguna Water transitioned 67 more facilities, contributing a substantial 4.3 MW to the total aggregated demand.

In May, Boracay Water made history as the first utility in the Visayas region to adopt RAP. Its switch included 11 facilities, ranging from water treatment plants and pumping stations to wastewater treatment facilities and lift stations, further highlighting the adaptability of RAP across diverse operational setups.

Under the enhanced RAP framework, consumers like Manila Water are now able to group the electricity requirements of its facilities located within the same distribution utility franchise areas. This approach strengthens the principle of consumer choice and opens the door to more costeffective energy options available in the retail electricity market which is one of the core mandates of the EPIRA.

Developed in collaboration with UNICEF and Good Neighbors International Philippines, the guidebook empowers schools to adopt inclusive, climate-resilient, and child-safe construction standards.

Upgraded Temporary Learning Spaces

TO sustain learning in disaster-affected areas, DepEd also rolled out Upgraded Temporary Learning Spaces (UTLS)— improved modular classrooms designed to support continued education while permanent school structures undergo repair or reconstruction. These initiatives were featured during the National DRRM x CCA Summit 2025 held in Makati City this October, with the theme “EduResilience 2025: Strengthening Learning Continuity and Climate Resilience in Basic Education.” “Ang kahandaan ang pundasyon ng katatagan. Kapag may sapat na kagamitan, pagsasanay, at pasilidad ang ating mga paaralan, makakatiyak tayo na magpapatuloyangpag-aaralkahitsagitna ng sakuna,” Angara added.

DOTr resolves 6 right-of-way roadblocks for North-South Commuter Railway project

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said on Thursday it has successfully cleared right-ofway (ROW) issues in six critical locations along the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) System. Transportation Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez said that the six cleared properties are located in Clark International Airport, SM Clark, Barangay Pulungbulo in Angeles City, Barangay Sto. Niño in San Fernando, Barangay San Vicente in Apalit, and Barangay Iba Este in Calumpit.

“We extend our gratitude to the local government units in these critical areas where we will construct the NSCR, particularly those in Angeles City, Mabalacat City, City of San Fernando, Apalit, Minalin, Sto. Tomas, Calumpit, Malolos, and the provinces of Pampanga and Bulacan, for their invaluable support and cooperation in making this project possible,” Lopez said. He also expressed confidence that all ROW requirements for the NSCR’s northern section from Malolos to Clark will be completed by mid-2026. The agency also targets to complete ROW acquisition for nine stations on the southern section by December 2025. These include stations in Biñan, Cabuyao, Sta. Rosa, EDSA, Sucat, Muntinlupa, FTI, Blumentritt, and Sta. Mesa. Lopez added that the agency is also fast-tracking utility relocation for the NSCR’s southern segment by December 2025, alongside the Banlic Depot, with ROW acquisition already reaching 98 percent completion.

“Minamadalinatalaganatinang right of way at konstruksyon ng ating railway ayon sa direktiba ng PangulongMarcos,” he said.

Stretching roughly 147 km from Clark through Metro Manila to Calamba, the NSCR is the government’s flagship commuter rail and is cofinanced by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) under a parallel collaboration arrangement. Currently, the project has a completion rate of 32.4 percent. Full operations are expected for 2032. Lorenz S. Marasigan

IMD report: A wake-up call for PHL education and talent development

THE 2025 IMD World Talent Report’s humiliating placement of the Philippines—64th out of 69 economies—should be read not as a dry ranking but as an urgent wake-up call. Behind the number lies a clear and avoidable truth: when a nation fails to secure foundational literacy and numeracy for its children, it is not merely failing classrooms—it is hobbling its economy, its social mobility and its place in the world. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Generational dumbing down,” October 5, 2025).

Education is the scaffolding on which all other national ambitions are built. The decisions, policies and budgets that produced our current state of affairs were not the work of one administration; they are the accumulated result of decades of underinvestment and neglect. Yet that is no excuse—it is precisely why decisive, comprehensive reform must begin now.

The data is stark: nine out of 10 children can’t read a simple text by age 10, and functional literacy is only 71 percent for those aged 10-64. This skills gap explains why companies struggle to find qualified hires, why training programs fail, and talent pipelines dry up just when the world is competing fiercely for them.

Comparisons with our Southeast Asian neighbors raise concerns. The Philippines, once a model, is now lagging behind Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, which have invested consistently in education and training. Talent is developed through ongoing investment in schools, teachers, curricula, and institutions that focus on learning outcomes.

Educational reform must urgently prioritize early literacy and numeracy to build foundational skills. A national campaign should promote mastery in these subjects through clear benchmarks, nationwide assessments, and resource allocation to vulnerable schools. This focus ensures all students, regardless of background, have access to quality education. Investing in teachers and instructional quality is equally essential. This includes providing competitive salaries, comprehensive training, and resources that reflect teaching as a respected profession.

Accountability measures should be strengthened to ensure funding goes to interventions that improve learning outcomes, with clear metrics for monitoring. It’s also essential to align technical-vocational education with basic literacy and numeracy, as skills training can’t replace foundational knowledge.

The political will to implement changes needs to be sustained over the long term. Education reforms require continuity across electoral cycles; they demand courageous choices about budgets, teacher management and curricular focus. Short-term political gains or headline programs will not reverse decades of learning loss.

The narrative must shift to view education as a strategic national investment rather than a bureaucratic function. Parents, teachers, business leaders, and policymakers should focus on one key question: Are our children learning the basics to thrive in life and work? If not, the nation must recognize this as a shared emergency.

We have the talent and potential to be a regional and global contender, but we must actively develop it. The choice is clear: invest in education now or risk a generation of Filipinos facing underemployment and lost opportunities. The future hinges on the literacy and numeracy skills developed in today’s classrooms. Ignoring this is a risk we cannot afford to take.

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Tales of disinformation,  red-tagging, and martial law in Cinemalaya 2025

TDennis Gorecho

Kuwentong Peyups

ALES of disinformation, red-tagging, and martial law are featured in three competing full length films in the 21st Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival.

Cinemalaya as a platform for political commentary opened the doors for “Habang Nilalamon ng Hydra ang Kasaysayan” by Dustin Celestino, “Bloom Where You Are Planted” by Noni Abao, and “Padamlagan” by Jenn Romano for this year’s Cinemalaya with the theme “Layag sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos.”

“Hydra” divides itself into eight chapters, each orbiting a different figure caught in the undertow of political loss as four Filipinos cope with life after a painful political defeat.

Kiko (Jojit Lorenzo), a strategist whose cynicism threatens to calcify into apathy; David (Zanjoe Marudo), a speechwriter whose faith in reason falters against the machinery of lies; Bea (Dolly de Leon), a history teacher tasked with teaching a past her nation refuses to remember; and Mela (Mylene Dizon), a lawyer forced to reconcile her family’s complicity with her own ideals.

They struggle with the shifting

political landscape, dissecting the loss of history through technology and changing social norms, while desperately trying figure out where hopes lies when the truth no longer holds power.

The film navigates the complexities of a state consumed by disinformation,  historical amnesia and revisionism for which the characters grapple with their past, and affects them in the face of adversity.

Celestino sketches the emotional geography of disillusionment as each one searches for purpose while truths fade, histories blur, and memory itself becomes an act of defiance.

Celestino associated history with Greek mythological characters: Hydra, Sisyphus, Cassandra, and Tantalus.

He used hydra as “a monolith with a million faces and a metaphor for disinformation [a monster with many heads that tell different lies],

Housing insecurity

OEAGLE WATCH

F the many insecurities that Filipino households experience —including economic, food, and political—housing insecurity is surely near the top of the list.

Owning a comfortably sized home, preferably in safe, clean, easily accessible communities, with the necessary amenities is one of the main aspirations of Filipino households, according to the survey underpinning the Ambisyon Natin 2040 vision document.

In fact, many Filipino households still live in homes or lots that they do not own. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority’s 2021 Family Income and Expenditure Survey (FIES), for instance, only 71 percent of Filipino

households live in homes that they own or for which they have ownerlike possession of the house and lot. The other 29 percent report less secure tenure status and could be renting the house/room and lot (8 percent), own the house but not the lot (15 percent), or live rent free with or without the consent of owner (6 percent).

The household surveys like the FIES do not clearly identify informal settlers, but they likely fall not just among those who live rent free, but also among those who report they

Amid the heavy barrage of false information both online and offline, there is an urgent need for concerted efforts to assert the truth and combat disinformation and historical amnesia/ revisionism.

for persistent corruption [cut off one head, two will emerge], and for our private, personal, and varied relationship with history.”

Like Sisyphus, we may keep pushing our boulder uphill only to watch it roll back down. Like Tantalus, we reach for dreams that seem to drift farther away the closer we get.

“When hope can no longer be found in the outside world, it must come from within, not as a fleeting emotion, but as a creative and defiant decision; a divine will to create light out of darkness. Hope inspires us to act, to believe, and to love. So even if the struggle against evil and injustice lasts a lifetime, a life lived with love, belief, and action toward goodness is a life of immeasurable value and meaning,” Celestino said.

“Red-tagging” is the focus of Abao’s “Bloom Where You Are Planted.”

The Cagayan Valley Region serves as the dedicated workplace of Agnes Tadeo Mesina (a development worker), the chosen home of Amanda Echanis (a jailed mother-artist-activist), and the birthplace of Randy Malayao

Singapore’s Central Provident Fund played a role in supporting the government’s housing program. Can a similar program be implemented in the Philippines? It is certainly worth looking at. It will be financially costly, for sure, but it will also likely be economically profitable, especially in the long run.

(a slain peace consultant). Yet, they find themselves unable to return home: one is relentlessly pursued by the government, another is imprisoned, and the third is killed on his journey home. Mesina and Malayao were both my colleagues from the University of the Philippines. The film exemplified the pronouncement of  the Supreme Court in  Deduro v. Maj. Gen. Vinoya (GR 254753, July 4, 2023) that “redtagging is a threat to people’s life, liberty, and security.”

Labeling a person “red” often comes with frequent surveillance, direct harassment, and in some instances, eventual death. The Court stressed that being associated with communists makes a red-tagged person a target of vigilantes, paramilitary groups or even state agents. It also noted that red-tagging uses threats and intimidation to discourage “subversive activities.”

“Padamlagan” (which means “night light” or “overnight vigil” in Bicolano) by Jenn Romano is set just days before the declaration of Martial Law on September  21, 1972, the film follows the desperate search of Doring (Ely) for his son Ivan (Esteban), who goes missing after the collapse of the Colgante Bridge during the fluvial procession of the Peñafrancia festival. It claimed the lives of 138 devotees and onlookers. The imposition of Martial Law caught Naga City by surprise See “Gorecho,” A13

Dr. Geoffrey Ducanes

A different Dy-namic? Assessing the new Speaker of the House

By Timothy Andrew Flores

THE public has seen and heard enough from politicians over the years to recognize when they are just putting on a show. Most politicos begin their terms with the typical fanfare— promises of reform, vows to address critical issues, and lofty speeches about transparency. Yet, just a few months in, it’s often back to the same old routine.

So when Isabela 6th District Rep. Faustino “Bojie” Dy III took on the role of Speaker, understandably the public didn’t expect much. However, we have to give him credit; he has genuinely surprised many of us who have worked for years in the House. For starters, he hasn’t glossed over the challenges facing Congress. He began his term by openly stating a truth that many in Congress are afraid to admit: the House of Representatives must redouble its efforts to earn back the public’s trust. Without hiding behind euphemisms, he straightforwardly acknowledged the institution’s tarnished reputation. Such candor is a rare commodity in politics. Beyond that, his approach to leadership within the House has been notable. He demonstrates a genuine interest in all levels of staff, not just his fellow congressmen. His awareness extends to even seemingly minor details, like the staff’s use of uniforms. While this might appear insignificant, it reveals a Speaker deeply engaged with the well-being and concerns of those he leads.

From what we longtime staffers have observed, Dy has been actively engaging with members of the House. He kicked off his first full week as Speaker by visiting the HOR media center to meet with the press. He even agreed to an impromptu interview, providing honest and straightforward responses to challenging questions. Additionally, Speaker Dy has been visiting representatives’ offices personally rather than calling them to his own. While it may seem a minor thing to outsiders, in an institution typically governed by hierarchy, this is quite significant. His presence at sessions and committee hearings is also notable—like the recent joint meeting of the Agriculture and Ways and Means panels, where he listened to farmers share

try, 8 percent were actually living in homes where the floor area was less than 15 square meters, and another 25 percent in homes where the floor area was less than 30 square meters. In area size per person, 18 percent of households lived in homes where the floor area was less than 5 square meters, and another 10 percent in homes where the floor area was less than 7 square meters.

Taken together, this means about 30 percent to about a third of households in the country did not live in homes that have enough comfortable living space, just based on minimum standards.

These are likely to take a toll on family members, including the development of children. There are studies showing that children from overcrowded homes are more likely to perform worse academically and to be developmentally delayed. It can also take a mental and emotional toll on adult members of the household.

Unfortunately, home ownership, especially in urban areas, is a pipe dream for many Filipino households who do not yet own a house or who want to move to a bigger house.

The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) sets official housing price ceilings for eligibility for government housing programs. For socialized subdivision units, the maximum price ceiling is set at P850,000 for a unit with a minimum floor area of 28 square meters. For socialized condominium units with the mini-

Minding the wind

Speaker Dy, admittedly, has his work cut out for him. The issues confronting the House are enormous, and as he himself conceded, trust in the institution has hit an all-time low. It is unrealistic to expect him to repair the House’s image overnight. But for now, it feels like he is at least trying to steer the Chamber in the right direction, which is exactly what the House—and the people it serves—need right now.

their struggles. During the YouTube livestream, his voice cracked as he discussed the challenges faced by the nation’s farmers. Such genuine emotion is uncommon in a political landscape where many showcase their personas for the cameras daily. Perhaps his experience as a former governor of Isabela has kept him grounded, setting him apart from others who have held the speakership. He seems most at ease engaging with everyday people about real-world issues.

Speaker Dy, admittedly, has his work cut out for him. The issues confronting the House are enormous, and as he himself conceded, trust in the institution has hit an all-time low. It is unrealistic to expect him to repair the House’s image overnight. But for now, it feels like he is at least trying to steer the Chamber in the right direction, which is exactly what the House—and the people it serves —need right now. Time will tell if Speaker Dy is just another politician. But maybe, in time, this Dy will show he really is different.

Timothy Andrew Flores has worked in the House for over a decade and is a director of the Association of Congressional Chiefs of Staff.

mum acceptable size, the DHSUD price ceiling is set at about P1 million. These ceilings will reportedly be increased this month to increase private sector participation in housing projects.

In reality, these prices serve more as a floor as market prices are typically higher.

According to the 2021 FIES, about 12 percent of Philippine households actually spent more than they earned in total income for the year. Such households certainly cannot afford to buy a house or qualify for a loan to buy a house. Of the households who managed to save, 10 percent saved less than P8,000 for the year and 25 percent saved less than P20,000 for the year. Again, such households are unlikely to be able to afford to purchase a house.

In Singapore, which faced mass housing shortages in the 1950s, the housing problem was addressed in large part by a program of subsidized rent for extremely low-income households and subsidized sale for low and middle income households. Singapore’s Central Provident Fund played a role in supporting the government’s housing program. Can a similar program be implemented in the Philippines? It is certainly worth looking at. It will be financially costly, for sure, but it will also likely be economically profitable, especially in the long run. Imagine if the money wasted on ghost flood control projects went into real housing projects instead.

ANNOTATIONS

“But when the birds are gone, and their warm fields Return no more, where, then, is paradise?”

THE meteorological agency of the Philippines has recently declared the ‘habagat’ to be over. Known as the Southwest monsoon, ‘habagat’ is one of the two kinds of winds or seasons in the country. The agency has announced the arrival of the ‘amihan,’ the Northeast monsoon.

A wind pattern, monsoon is best understood when seen from its derivation ‘mawsim’ the Arabic term adapted by Portuguese sailors. The concept penetrated into the English vocabulary in the form of the Dutch monssoen.

In the Philippines, the monsoon is characterized by other elements such as strong rain and even storms and typhoons. The habagat occurs with high humidity and brings in pressure from April to October. The transition is not that marked and, for those who have experienced the change in seasons—as in from summer to autumn—the shift does come after a night. Or when one wakes up and there is a bit of chill by the open window.

I grew up with a grandmother— Emilia and a host of grandmothers and grand-aunts—who possessed the confidence of a maga. More or less. She was particularly adept at the directions of the wind, and was careful to note the hues of the early morning clouds or the haze of the early evenings.

This became even more complicated with the tales she remembered, the origin myths she has endless

collections of. Putting them all together was like beholding an almanac of beliefs that guided her and the community.

Amihan, the harbinger of cool and cold wind, when the days have suns that shine bright, pleasantly dull and pale, was also about the good, slow life. In our old rambling house, I recall this grandmother who would look out during the month of October—usually mid-month and almost near the days of the All-Souls’ and All-Saints’ Day—when a particular rhizomatous grass begins to wave its silver blooms.

‘It’s seeking the wind to blow them away,’ the grandmother almost in a prophecy would declare the meaning of the profusion. Indeed, by December, the wind became visible by the tiny specks produced by the tall, hardy grasses. This would go on for a few more days.

The change between monsoons or seasons can be abrupt, or it could happen overnight. There were years when the season took weeks to settle.

The old people in the household were the ones concerned about these changes; the young were not.

My grandmother, for example,

would look at the part of the kitchen or the porch and note how the shadow had already shifted—the chair that once held the cooler space would now be under the glare of the morning sun. Or, she would call our attention to a particularly raucous bird on top of the fence.

‘It must be after the ripening papaya,’ my grandmother would nearly admonish us. But the bird always had the monopoly of that ripening fruit. That was hers when the right season came for them.

Growing up in a small town, the flight of domestic ducks or geese never escaped observation. When the wind was of particular import and direction, the women and men were always looking at how high these fowls were flying above the roofs. One particular afternoon, there was a shrill cry from the other end of the neighborhood. A younger aunt was hysterical upon seeing the fattest goose of the priest soaring high above the steeple of the convento. The goose must have felt in

its ancient feathers the arrival of the strongest typhoon. We must all brace for the danger! Far from the crowd, the poor aunt did not see the origin of the fowl’s fear – the ferocious dog running after the goose that flew so high it alerted falsely the arrival of a calamity. In the same household also lived a great grandmother—the mother of my grandfather, Elpidio. She was a healer who kept a bottle of leeches. It was said she generally consulted the little creatures and marveled at their behavior. When these tiny crawlers crept up the side of the bottle my great-grandmother kept in her room, she knew rain would come or a great flood was about to occur. At times, without my meaning to, whenever, I see a row of ants parading slowly up my wall, I know the rainy days are here. When this happens, I thank my grandmother and grand-aunts for all the magic they have taught me. Quietly.

E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com

Japan’s Takaichi faces early test as coalition talks stall

By Sakura Murakami

JAPAN’S

new ruling party leader, Sanae Takaichi, has yet to reach an agreement with the party’s long-time coalition partner Komeito about continuing their alliance, a delay that highlights the challenges she faces in building a stable administration.

Even with Komeito on board, the Liberal Democratic Party lacks a majority in both houses of parliament. That makes it imperative for Takaichi to get the longstanding ally to continue its support before she cuts deals with other parties to obtain the numbers needed to pass budgets and push ahead with policy.

While the most likely outcome is that the two parties will reach agreement in the coming days, the delay shows the level of reservations Komeito has over Takaichi’s right-wing views and her response to funding scandals within the LDP.

In a sign of that unease, Komeito head Tetsuo Saito indicated in comments that aired Wednesday that the party won’t vote for Takaichi in a parliamentary ballot to decide the prime minister if a coalition agreement isn’t in place.

A shock exit by Komeito from the coalition might force Takaichi to make more expensive concessions to opposition parties such as the Democratic Party for the People or the Japan Innovation Party to win their backing on a policy-by-policy basis or in a new coalition.

Discussions between Takaichi and Saito on Tuesday ended without a deal, in contrast to the previous two administrations, both of which signed agreements on the day new LDP party executives were formally appointed.

Without Komeito, Takaichi faces a shortfall of 37 seats to reach an LDP majority in the lower house. In the

upper house the LDP is 25 seats short. Komeito was founded in 1964 with the backing of the Buddhist group Soka Gakkai, an organization whose members can provide a pool of votes. Collaboration with Komeito since the late 1990s has enabled the LDP to project more of a reassuring image of consensus-building.

Komeito has typically reined in the LDP’s more hawkish leaders and efforts to remove restrictions on Japan’s Self-Defense Forces while putting forward policies favoring the vulnerable. Komeito ensured the sales tax was only raised to 8 percent on food in 2019 instead of 10 percent.

Takaichi’s past hawkish comments stand at odds with Komeito’s pacifist stance. Over the years, Takaichi has been a regular visitor to Yasukuni, a shrine that honors Japan’s war dead including war criminals. Visits by previous premiers have proven to be a flashpoint for China and South Korea.

Still, Saito said Tuesday that he had reached a shared understanding on many points after Takaichi gave a detailed explanation of her views on history, Yasukuni and foreigners. That likely leaves problems over the LDP’s slush fund scandal as the sticking point, with Komeito pushing for more restrictions on corporate donations.

Takaichi likely inflamed tensions over the funding issue when she appointed Koichi Hagiuda, to a senior LDP post on Tuesday. Hagiuda was one of the lawmakers implicated in

A shock exit by Komeito from the coalition might force Takaichi to make more expensive concessions to opposition parties such as the Democratic Party for the People or the Japan Innovation Party to win their backing on a policy-by-policy basis or in a new coalition.

the funding scandal.

Whether Komeito stays put or not, Takaichi will need opposition support to pass draft legislation.

She is likely only seeking cooperation from Ishin and the DPP at this stage given the complexity of expanding or changing the ruling coalition. She has little time to play with, given a hectic diplomatic schedule if she becomes premier, including a possible meeting with US President Donald Trump later this month.

Ishin holds 35 and 19 seats in the lower and upper chambers respectively, while the DPP holds 27 and 25. A one-on-one partnership with either Ishin or the DPP, but without Komeito, wouldn’t be enough for the LDP to secure control of both chambers—highlighting the importance of Komeito’s seats.

The LDP signed an agreement last year with the DPP to raise the income threshold in exchange for support on an extra budget, a move that is a basis for further cooperation. That deal is already set to trim tax revenue by ¥1.2 trillion, according to the LDP. The Finance Ministry has estimated the lost revenue of lifting the ceiling by the full amount demanded by the DPP at up to ¥8 trillion.

Takaichi has said she favors raising the tax threshold. Still, DPP leader Yuichiro Tamaki talked down the possibility of a coalition after

meeting Takaichi on Wednesday, reiterating his view that he wanted to enact policies rather than get a cabinet position.

The DPP also calls for a blanket sales tax cut to 5 percent. The DPP says it can finance the resulting ¥10 trillion shortfall through bond issuance, the surplus from special accounts and unused government funds. Giving in to these demands would make the DPP an expensive partner.

Based in the western region of Kansai, the right-leaning Ishin has faced off in recent elections against Komeito, which is also based in the area, making them fierce rivals. That makes Komeito reluctant to see Ishin join the ruling coalition.  Still, on policy, the parties are not so far apart. Ishin backed the annual budget for the current fiscal year after securing commitments from the LDP on free high school education and reduced social insurance premiums.

Ishin supports a targeted sales tax cut that lowers the rate on food to 0 percent for two years, with the cost theoretically covered by tax revenue surpluses — a less expensive alternative compared with the DPP’s plan. Takaichi has also endorsed Ishin’s “second capital” initiative, which aims to offer up a city, likely Osaka, as an alternative to Tokyo in case of natural disasters. That may help talks to proceed. As for Komeito, there are risks if it bolts from the coalition. Komeito would need to fight for relevance against the more aggressive DPP or the far-right Sanseito, political forces that are more attuned to a younger generation. Recent opinion polls show Komeito trailing its new rivals. With assistance from Erica Yokoyama, Takashi Umekawa and Yoshiaki Nohara/Bloomberg

Tito Genova Valiente

Friday, October 10, 2025

BusinessMirror

IBPAP: ‘Reckless declaration’ may jeopardize BPO industry

By Andrea E. San Juan & Justine Xyrah Garcia

THE IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) has denounced the “irresponsible declaration” made by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Region 7 which “prematurely” identified several IT-BPM firms that have been ordered to halt operations for alleged labor rights violations.

IBPAP said none of the accounts of its four member companies named by the BPO Industry Employee Network (BIEN) confirmed that employees were prevented from leaving the production area despite the earthquake, particularly regarding the blocking of exits, and forced to return to their workstations without safety clearance.

However, BIEN criticized IBPAP for what it described as an attempt to downplay safety violations raised by Cebu-based workers during and after the recent earthquake. In a

By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

AMORE thorough budget review in the Senate has yielded some interesting results: the two regions that received the biggest chunk of funding for questionable farm-to-market roads (FMRs) are Bicol region and LeyteSamar, while two others deemed rice granaries, Region 2 and Mindanao, are ranked “very low” in FMR allocations.

Another discovery by the Senate Finance Committee overseeing budget deliberations for 2026: three of the Top 10 FMR contractors nationwide belong to the Top 15 contractors flagged by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last July 25 in the raging controversy over subpar and ghost flood-control projects (FCP).

These revelations were shared by the Finance committee chairman, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, at Thursday’s Kapihan sa Senado, and he said he would recommend to the Blue Ribbon committee and the ICI to go beyond flood-control projects and probe these as well. This, even as he assured the public the budget review is looking carefully as well into other multibillion-peso projects for other agencies besides the Department of Agriculture, but which are implemented by the scandal-ridden Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Among others, he said, budget probers in the Senate and even the House of Representatives have focused as well on infrastructure projects done by DPWH for the Department of National Defense (under TIKAS, structures for security personnel), Department of Health (public hospitals), Department of Education (school buildings). The respective agency heads are revisiting these projects and some have flagged unfinished projects despite the billions lodged with DPWH.

“Given what happened in flood control, I am not surprised that the biggest farm-to-market allocation went to Bicol,” Gatchalian told reporters. He said that among the biggest contractors for Bicol-area

statement on Thursday, BIEN said IBPAP’s remarks “attacked” both DOLE Region 7 and employees who reported being forced to return to work despite ongoing aftershocks.

“IBPAP denounces this irresponsible declaration by DOLE Region 7, which prematurely named companies without the benefit of impartial investigation or validation,” it said. The group said such actions “run contrary to the principles of fairness and good faith expected of a government agency that serves as

a partner of both workers and employers in ensuring safe and decent workplaces.”

It added that the “reckless naming” of companies before the Senate and in the media “damages reputations, causes confusion among employees, and creates undue alarm among global clients whose confidence directly impacts investment, business continuity, retention, and creation of jobs in the Philippines.”

The industry group said this misinformation has “serious” international repercussions.

For one, it said business process outsourcing (BPO) clients who entrust critical operations to the Philippines may begin to see the country as “unreliable, inconsistent, and non-compliant” in its regulatory practices.

Further, IBPAP said such a perception “erodes confidence, drives business to competing destinations, and jeopardizes the very jobs and revenues the Philippine IT-BPM industry has worked hard to secure.”

The industry group also expressed concern that clients may become “hesitant” to expand outside Metro Manila, “undermining countryside development opportunities where these jobs are most needed and

where DOLE itself aims to create and safeguard livelihoods.”

Since the initial reports surfaced, IBPAP said it has been in active communication with DOLE National Capital Region to request the official list of companies involved, along with corresponding complaints, reports, and allegations made by BIEN, which IBPAP said, does not represent the IT-BPM industry in the Philippines.

“Despite these repeated efforts, no documentation has been provided to date,” IBPAP said. “It is therefore disappointing for IBPAP to learn about this information only through a statement made during the Senate hearing that was subsequently published in an online news article.”

IBPAP said the findings from its inquiry “disprove” BIEN’s claims of widespread employee safety violations among IT-BPM employers during the Cebu earthquake.

“Their sweeping accusations cast the entire industry in an unfavorable light and unfairly generalize IT-BPM companies as non-compliant with labor laws, despite long-standing and consistent adherence to labor and safety standards,” it added.

OLDEST DISTILLERY GROWS OVERSEAS SALES

THE Philippines’s oldest distillery, Destileria Limtuaco Co. Inc., is gaining new markets and is looking forward to boosting its exports this year.

In an interview with the BusinessMirror, company president Olivia Limpe-Aw said: “For the 2025 exports, we are targeting a significant increase over 2024, driven by strong product demand and a surge in inquiries,” although she declined to give hard figures.

She added that the company has “recovered in terms of sales volume and operational capacity, with several markets now exceeding pre-pandemic performance due to renewed consumer demand and expanded distribution channels. However, we continue to monitor and adapt to changing regulations on alcoholic beverages in certain countries.”

The company is specifically trying to strengthen its presence in the Middle East, ironically a market that normally does not consume alochol due to religious purposes. However, Limpe-Aw noted the brisk business of its premium liquor products, with the company also “entering the Halal market. We have already in -

troduced Maria

a non-alcoholic drink that is Halal-certified.”

Growing liquor market in UAE ACCORDING to Mordor Intelligence, the Middle East and Africa alcoholic beverages market size is estimated at US$154.11 billion this year, and is projected to reach $216.45 billion by 2030, registering a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.03 percent. The United Arab Emirates has recorded the highest growth rate in the region with an 8.23-percent CAGR through 2030. “This growth stems from a strong business tourism sector that attracts international travelers with high alcoholic beverage

FMRs were Hi-Tone Construction of Christopher Co, relative of Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, the former House Appropriations panel chairman who flew abroad for “medical treatment” at the height of the floodcontrol funds scandal that has ensnared both the Executive and Congress, and spurred the creation of the ICI. The other area with the biggest FMR allocations is Leyte, the home province of former Speaker Martin G. Romualdez, who was also summoned by the ICI. Gatchalian’s Finance panel was drawn to the FMRs as possible source of anomalies after Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the DA did not concur in many FMR projects being done by the DPWH.

“Based on the information I got from my undersecretaries earlier, it seems the projects didn’t go through us,” Laurel told reporters on the sidelines of an earlier Senate hearing. Despite this, the DA chief said the agency would investigate the “overpriced” projects.

“I’m asking for a copy then we will do our internal investigation [...] we will also be coordinating with the [Department of Public Works and Highways] DPWH on this,” Laurel said.

Earlier, Laurel ordered the audit of every FMR project since 2021 amid the ongoing clamor on controversial flood control works.

The DA explained that even though FMR schemes are identified and validated by the agency, these road projects are commissioned, bid out, and constructed by the DPWH.

FMR mess to Blue Ribbon, ICI MEANWHILE, Gatchalian said on Thursday he will recommend the inclusion of the FMR investigation to the Senate Blue Ribbon committee and the ICI, which was originally created for the flood-control scandal.

Gatchalian noted that many flood-control contractors were also involved in FMRs, some road projects, and—another possible source of anomalies—irrigation projects.

Govt told: Hike safeguard duty on cement imports

MANUFACTURERS are asking the government to raise the safeguard duty on imported cement to P600 per metric ton (MT) to make the local industry competitive.

“We had been hoping for [safeguard duty] of P600 per ton. This is higher than the provisional [duty] of P400,” Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CEMAP) Executive Director Renato Baja told reporters in an interview on Thursday.

As to the P349 per MT safeguard duty recommended by the Tariff Commission in its final report, Baja said this is “not enough.”

“First of all, there’s a comparison between the landed cost of imported cement versus the gate price of local cement,” he added.

In February 2025, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) issued Department of Administrative Order (DAO) No. 25-01 (series of 2025) imposing a provisional safeguard measure, in the form of a cash bond, of P400 per MT

or equivalent to P16 per 40-kilogram bag, on imported cement.

The provisional measure is effective for 200 days from the date of effectivity.

As the period of the said provisional measure has now lapsed, the Tariff Commission (TC), after its formal investigation, has recommended the application of the “appropriate definitive general safeguard measure, in the form of a duty, on importations of cement to redress the serious injury directly attributed to the same by providing temporary relief and giving the local cement industry a reasonable period to adjust to increased import competition.”

“The Commission recommends a specific duty of P349/MT [or P14/40 kg bag] as the definitive safeguard measure to be imposed on importations of cement [Ordinary Portland Cement Type 1 and Blended Cement],” TC said in its report.

The Tariff Commission’s safeguard measure recommendation against imported cement in-

tends to be extended for three years. The final decision, however, should be made by Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

Rule 13.2 of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 8800 or the Safeguard Measures Act states that “within 15 calendar days from receipt of the Report of the Commission, the Secretary shall make a decision, taking into consideration the measures recommended by the Commission.”

On the sidelines of the Federation of Philippine Industries Inc.’s (FPI) Business Summit 2025 on Wednesday, Roque told reporters that she will come up with the decision on the appropriate safeguard measure before October 14. Consumer group United Filipino Consumers and Commuters (UFCC) pointed out that extending the period of imposition of the P16 tariff per 40-kilo bag on imported blended cement will only jack up prices of local cement, which could undermine competition and burden Filipino consumers.

“The Department Order 25-01 was signed by the Secretary on February 20, 2025. It will take effect for 200 days, so if we count the 200

Clara Punch,

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Araneta to sell PhilWeb stake

By VG Cabuag @villygc

GREGORIO Araneta Inc. will exit gaming firm PhilWeb Corp. as Nexora Holdings Inc. and Velora Holdings Inc. will purchase its shares at a huge discount.

In its disclosure, the company said it will sell all of its 57-percent stake in Philweb to the two firms for P1.8 billion.

Gregorio Ma. Araneta III is the current CEO of PhilWeb.

The deal would include 829.57 million common shares which will be sold for P2.17 apiece, or a discount of 46 percent from its Thursday’s closing price of P4.06.

Araneta’s shares were purchased from the late Roberto Ongpin.

invest in securities, properties and related assets, with full rights of ownership, including voting rights.

“None of the buyers is engaged in securities brokering, portfolio management for third-party clients, public solicitation of investments, or the issuance of investment contracts.”

“As the corporation does not own land or is not engaged in a nationalized activity, any such increase will not impact Philweb’s compliance with foreign capital ownership limitations under applicable law,” the company said.

D“The buyers are expected to comply with this requirement within the period prescribed by law,” the disclosure read.

Nexora and Velora are domestic holding companies duly organized and existing under Philippine law, established to acquire, hold, own, dispose of, exchange, or otherwise

As the acquisition involves control of more than 35 percent of the outstanding voting shares of PhilWeb, the buyers are expected to conduct a mandatory tender offer for all other shares that it do not own.

PhilWeb’s current president and director, Edgar Brian K. Ng, is also the current president, chairman and director of Nexora, while PhilWeb Vice Chairman and Director Crisanto Roy B. Alcid is also a director and the treasurer of Nexora.

Certain of PhilWeb’s incumbent directors, meanwhile, will have to resign and be replaced by nominees of the buyer, subject to qualifications and compliance with the applicable law.

Completion of the transaction may result in an increase in the corporation’s foreign ownership levels to 40 percent from the current 4.9 percent.

PhilWeb has a license from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. to launch e-Games Stations, which are Internet cafes exclusively dedicated to casino games. With technology provided by the company, patrons can choose from more than 300 casino games, including baccarat, blackjack, various slot machine games, video poker and sports betting.

There are currently 288 operating e-Games cafes across the country, majority of which are owned and operated by independent operators.

Its units include BigGame Inc., PhilWeb Capital Corp., Easy e-Bingo Inc., NDM Entities, UMIAC Inc. and XO Corp.

‘PSCs bring PHL closer to energy sufficiency’

PBy Lenie Lectura @llectura

ANGILINAN-LED PXP Energy

Corp. said Thursday the signing of three new petroleum service

contracts (PSCs) will not only boost the company’s presence in the upstream oil and gas space but also support the government’s goal of reducing the country’s reliance on imports. Service contracts (SCs) 80 and SC

81are located in the Southwest Sulu Sea while SC 86 (Octon Block) is in Northwest Palawan, where PXP’s subsidiary, Forum Energy Philippines Corp., is also a participant. The three were among the eight service

IGIPLUS Interactive Corp. on Thursday said it signed an exclusive partnership with CIS Bayad Center Inc., a bills payment services firm, as the online gaming company expands its overthe-counter or physical payment options for its players.

The agreement takes effective immediately, making DigiPlus Bayad’s only gaming partner for OTC cash transactions.

Through this collaboration, DigiPlus customers gain access to Bayad’s extensive network of payment touchpoints, present across more than 800 Bayad Center branches and Bayad partners in malls, supermarkets and convenience stores nationwide. Bayad Center is accredited by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) as an electronic money issuer. DigiPlus said it partners only with BSP-accredited payment channels in accordance with the requirements of regulator Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., ensuring that all player wallet transactions are processed through secure and compliant payment platforms.

contracts signed and awarded by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.

“The signing of SCs 80 and 81 in the Sulu Sea, along with SC 86 in Northwest Palawan, marks a significant step forward for both PXP and the Philippine energy sector.

Continued on B2

BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone players can now make cash-ins or deposits through Bayad Center. Additional features including cash-outs or withdrawals and access through the Bayad application will be rolled out in next phases, providing DigiPlus customers with more options to manage their funds conve-

niently and safely, the company said.

“At DigiPlus, our priority is to deliver engaging entertainment while ensuring safe and reliable services for our players,” Eusebio H. Tanco, chairman of DigiPlus, said.

“This partnership with Bayad provides customers with more secure and convenient ways to manage their transactions, reinforcing our commitment to player protection and dependable service at every touchpoint.”

“Today, we take another meaningful step forward through our partnership with DigiPlus. Together, we’re expanding access to digital channels and offering new, engaging, and responsible ways for Filipinos to experience convenience and entertainment made possible by accessible and inclusive financial services,” Ray C. Espinosa, chairman of Bayad Center, said.

The Bayad Center payment channels partnership adds to DigiPlus’ growing customer service network and player support, which already includes its in-house 24/7 customer support, 130 physical BingoPlus stores nationwide and a surety bond for player wallets. Bayad Center is the biggest and widest multi-channel payment platform in the Philippines. With more than 20 solid years in the outsourced payment collection industry, the company is the top-ofmind, leading brand when it comes to bills payment. VG Cabuag

BOC chief cites reforms after ‘most corrupt’ tag

THE chief of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) cited reforms are being instituted by his agency to curb bribery and conflicts of interest after receiving a “most corrupt” tag from the US State Department (US DoS).

A statement issued by the BOC last Thursday stressed that institutional reforms have been underway under the leadership of its new commissioner, Ariel F. Nepomuceno, even before the release of the “2025 State Department Investment Climate Statements” report.

The report noted that the US DoS “still considered [the BOC] to be one of the most corrupt agencies” in the Philippines, America’s long-time ally in Southeast Asia.

According to the report, corruption has long hampered the government’s efforts to attract foreign investments in the country. It added that various organizations, including the World Economic Forum, cited corruption among the “top problematic factors” for doing business in the Philippines.

“The reforms we introduced within my first 100 days were not reactionary. They were proactive measures rooted in our commitment to clean governance. These measures directly respond to the very issues highlighted in the US State Department report, and we will continue pushing forward with both short and long-term solutions,” Nepomuceno said.

Among the solutions the BOC cited as proof of reforms is the strict policy prohibiting any form of bribery or unlawful monetary transactions within the bureau. According to the BOC, violators of this “No Take” policy face “immediate disciplinary action and possible prosecution.”

Nepomuceno has also issued a memorandum banning all BOC officials and employees from holding any business or financial interest in customs brokerage operations and requiring them to disclose familial ties to brokerage firms.

To strengthen internal over -

Banking&Finance BOC collection below target amid global trade disruption

sight, BOC personnel are now mandated to submit affidavits on past or present connections to customsrelated businesses to prevent hidden conflicts of interest.

In addition, the BOC has also temporarily suspended unserved “Letters of Authority” and “Mission Orders” to allow for a review of audit and inspection protocols to respond to complaints from the private sector over intrusive enforcement activities. The review would recalibrate procedures to ensure that enforcement remains risk-based, targeted and respectful of due process while avoiding undue disruption of legitimate trade.

The BOC will also maintain and strengthen the Customs Industry and Advisory Council (CICAC), which serves as a formal mechanism for engagement between the BOC and key stakeholders in trade, logistics and foreign investment. According to the BOC, it aims to institutionalize through the CICAC regular consultations, improve policy transparency, and co-develop solutions that improve efficiency in customs processes.

While these initial reforms are short-term solutions critical to restore trust and accountability, Nepomuceno said the BOC will focus on full digitalization and automation as its long-term strategies to reduce discretion and close systemic gaps.

Reducing human discretion and streamlining transactions will eliminate systemic vulnerabilities and build a modern, efficient and corruption-resistant customs administration, the statement read.

“We are fully committed to transforming the Bureau of Customs into a model of integrity and professionalism. Corruption has no place in our agency, and we will continue to pursue reforms that protect investors, promote fair trade, and uphold public trust,” Nepomuceno said.

Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

LandBank eyes MSMEs in new lending scheme

MICRO-SIZED, small-scale and medium-sized enterprises are expected to gain wider access to credit after the Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank) launched a new lending program.

According to the state-run lender, the program called “Lifting MSMEs Lending,” offers loan packages that can be used for working capital, expansion, equipment upgrades, renovations, digitalization, franchising, export and trade finance, and green or sustainable projects.

The loan program (“LandBank’s Innovative Financing Thrust Towards Inclusive National Growth thru Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises”) is structured around three financing tiers to support enterprises at every stage, the lender explained in a statement.

Under the start-up loan, start-ups and microenterprises with less than one year of operation may borrow from P100,000 to P500,000, with free financial literacy training and minimal collateral requirements.

For micro-sized and small-scale firms with at least one year of operations, the Step-Up Loan offers financing from P500,000 up to P5 million, alongside training support, provision of point-of-sale (POS) terminals and eligibility for higher loan brackets.

Small-scale and medium-sized businesses with over three years in operation may tap the “level-up loan,” which extends up to P50 million in funding, coupled with access to the LandBank corporate credit card.

Beyond direct lending, LandBank will also extend rediscounting lines

to credit cooperatives, rural banks and microfinance institutions that serve MSMEs, covering as much as 85 percent of outstanding receivables to strengthen their lending capacity.

LandBank President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz has recognized MSMEs as the “backbone of the Philippine economy,” comprising 99.6 percent of total business establishments and employing 65 percent of the workforce.

“Every loan extended to an MSME creates a ripple effect—sustaining jobs, uplifting families, and strengthening communities. Through the Lifting MSMEs Lending Program, LandBank is fueling this multiplier effect to accelerate inclusive and sustainable growth across the nation,” Ortiz was quoted in the statement as saying.

Applications may be filed through the LandBank Business Loan Application Portal, a digital platform that allows borrowers to directly submit forms, upload documents and monitor application status.

LandBank booked a net income of P13.29 billion in the first quarter of this year, up by 11 percent year-onyear from P11.98 billion.

LandBank’s total assets increased by 5 percent to P3.426 trillion in the first quarter from P3.268 trillion in the same period last year, on the back of expansions in loan and investment portfolios.

The bank’s gross loan portfolio rose by 8 percent to P1.58 trillion, while its investments jumped by 14 percent to P1.50 trillion in the first quarter, driven by growth in both trading and non-trading portfolios. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

TBy Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto

HE Bureau of Customs (BOC) collected P80.102 billion in revenues in September, higher than last year’s level but still below the target for the month, a matter experts view as reflecting the impact of issues clutching global trade.

Preliminary data from the BOC showed collections grew by 5 percent to P80.102 billion in September from P76.282 billion during the same month a year ago.

The BOC said the revenue growth was driven by the higher valuation of non-oil imports, which cushioned the adverse effects of weaker import volumes and drop in oil price index.

Higher collections came even as several ports experienced operational challenges during the month due to suspensions of work caused by inclement weather, the BOC added.

Despite the revenue growth, the BOC fell short by 4.18 percent, or P3.494 billion, of the P83.596 billion goal.

“[The collection] reflects resil-

ience despite weak volumes and lower oil prices. However, falling short of its target signals underlying vulnerabilities tied to trade deceleration and global tariff disruptions,” John Paolo R. Rivera, senior research fellow at state-run think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies, told the BusinessMirror

The tariff wars, expectations of dumping and the extension of rice import ban pose as significant threats to the BOC in meeting its full-year target of P958.714 billion, according to Ateneo de Manila University Economist Leonardo A. Lanzona. This year’s target is 4.5 percent higher than the BOC’s actual collection of P916.674 billion in 2024.

Lanzona told the BusinessMir-

DSWD given ₧716.15M for disaster relief effort

THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) announced last Thursday its chief has approved the release of P716.15 million to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to replenish the agency’s quick response fund (QRF).

A statement issued by the DBM read that the allocation is expected to be used to procure and stockpile family food packs and non-food items in DSWD warehouses. The statement added these items are expected to benefit around 424,681 families.

The DBM added that the fund is expected to be used for “Emergency Cash Transfers” for some 41,502 households affected by the Southwest Monsoon and Tropical Cyclones “Mirasol,” “Nando,” and “Opong” in Regions V, IV-B and II.

Moreover, the fund is expected to support transport and delivery services, stand-by funds for regional offices, and other logistical support needed to swiftly distribute relief goods and emergency assistance.

“This replenishment helps guarantee the DSWD can continue to provide food, shelter, and cash aid to families when they need it most,” DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman was quoted in the statement as saying.

The DBM said the amount released to DSWD will be charged against the

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (NDRRM) Fund under the FY 2025 General Appropriations Act (Republic Act 12116).

Data from the DBM showed P13.034 billion was released from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (NDRRM) Fund from January to September this year. The NDRRM Fund may be used to provide aid, relief and rehabilitation to affected communities. It can also be used to repair and rebuild infrastructure damaged by natural or human-induced calamities within the current or past two years.

So far, P7.965 billion remains in the balance of the NDRRM Fund, which government agencies can still tap until the end of the year.

There is also P1 billion in People’s Survival Fund, an annual allocation to provide long-term finance stream for adaptation projects to increase the resilience of communities and ecosystems to climate change, under the NDRRM Fund.

The DSWD QRF is a standby fund that first response agencies can tap to immediately provide relief and assist areas stricken by catastrophes and crises. If the QRFs of first response agencies reach 50 percent or lower, they may request replenishment to the DBM, which will be approved by the Office of the President.

Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

Unionbank infuses ₧1.5B into thrift bank subsidiary

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

THE Union Bank of the Philippines (Unionbank) reported last Thursday of pumping P1.5 billion into its thrift bank subsidiary City Savings Bank Inc. (CSB).

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), the Aboitiz-owned lender said the capital infusion will help CSB’s “growth and business operations.”

The disclosure read that the decision was approved during a special meeting of the Board of Directors of Unionbank on October 8. The lender noted the infusion is still “subject to applicable regulatory approval.”

The bank explained that CSB provides mass market financial products and services such as salary loans to public and private school teachers, pension loans to pensioners of the Government

Service Insurance System (GSIS) and Social Security System (SSS).

Aside from traditional deposit products, CSB also offers motorcycle loans, government salary loans, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) salary loans and AFP pension loans for retired pensioners and legal beneficiaries.

According to Unionbank, its goal for CSB is to make it the country’s leading mass market bank. Since it was established 1965 in Cebu City by Don Ramon Aboitiz and Teotimo Abellana, it has grown to over 140 branches nationwide.

In July 2025, the Chamber of Thrift Banks (CTB) said support for underserved markets such as small and medium enterprises (SMEs), housing, and consumers has yielded the country’s thrift banks P1.1 trillion in assets at the end of last year.

ror that the expected dumping of goods to the Philippines by various countries due to tariff wars will create massive uncertainty in global trade flows.

“While dumping could theoretically increase import volumes, it often leads to trade defense measures (like anti-dumping duties) and market chaos that can disrupt predictable trade patterns, making forecasting and collection volatile,” he explained.

As the United States imposed higher tariffs on other countries, Lanzona said global trade could be rerouted, with diverted goods flowing into the Philippines, boosting supply, driving down prices and affecting import valuations.

“Alternatively, it could disrupt supply chains for Philippine manufacturers, reducing their need to import raw materials,” noted the economist.

Moreover, the extension of the rice import ban is a “direct hit” to the BOC’s collections, since rice imports are a crucial source of the tariff revenues.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has said the government will extend the ban on rice importation until the end of 2025 and allow imports only in January 2026 to stabilize supply in time for the dry season harvest.

Sarawak:

“Extending the ban removes a reliable revenue stream, especially during the crucial fourth quarter period,” Lanzona told the BusinessMirror. From January to September, the BOC has collected P701.489 billion. This, however, is also short of the P711.820 billion target by 1.45 percent or P10.331 billion.

With this performance, PIDS’s Rivera said hitting the full-year target remains feasible for the BOC, but could be challenging.

However, Lanzona said the BOC will likely fall short of the target, but it may still post a respectable yearon-year growth figure.

“They might end the year in the range of P940 - P950 billion. This would still be a significant achievement given the circumstances, but it would officially be a miss against their stated goal,” he added. To have any chance, Lanzona said the BOC would need to see a yearend surge in high-value imports and intensify its anti-smuggling and correct valuation campaigns to their maximum potential. “The odds, however, are stacked against them.”

“To stay on track, the BOC must optimize valuation systems, strengthen post-clearance audits, and enhance anti-smuggling operations to offset volume-related declines,” Rivera said.

The capital of Business event legacies

IJUST came from Kuching, Sarawak, a Malaysian state on Borneo Island. Upon invitation from the Business Events Sarawak (BE Sarawak), I spoke on behalf of the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives (PCAAE) at their four-in-one “Legacy 360” conference and exhibition that comprises the “Legacy 360 Education Programme,” the “Legacy Events Advocacy Policy,” or Leap, summit, the “Borneo Inspires Legacy” (Bila) awards and the “Kind Borneo” expo.

Once again blazing the trail in the global business events landscape, Sarawak is positioning itself as the “Business Event Legacy Capital of Southeast Asia.” Through the “Legacy 360” framework and its Leap Summit, “BE Sarawak” has set a powerful benchmark on how events can create lasting, meaningful impact beyond economic returns.

The “Legacy 360” Initiative redefines the role of business events. Instead of being one-off gatherings, conferences, and exhibitions are seen as platforms that generate social, economic, and environmental value long after the final session ends. This approach aligns with Sarawak’s “Post-Covid Development Strategy 2030” (PCDS 2030), which envisions a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future, driven by innovation and knowledge. By connecting events to the State’s development priorities such as talent upskilling, green growth, and community well-being, Sarawak ensures that every meeting contributes to its broader transformation journey.

Through “Legacy 360,” “BE Sarawak” measures event success, not just in delegate numbers or tourism receipts, but in impact legacies such as policy changes, research collaborations, environmental stewardship, and community empowerment. It is an intentional, structured approach to turning business events into catalysts for long-term change.

The Leap Summit, launched alongside “Legacy 360,” further amplifies this mission by convening policymakers, industry leaders, and association executives to champion advocacy, partnerships, and sustainable event policies. The Leap Summit has produced the “Borneo Legacy Declaration,” a purpose-based and principle-based framework highlighting business events as catalysts and enablers for change.

Sarawak’s leadership in this field is significant. It is not only Southeast Asia’s first destination to formalize a business events legacy framework but also a model for how regional governments can integrate the meetings industry into their strategic development agenda. By doing so, Sarawak elevates business events from being a tourism component to a separate sector in itself and driver of progress, shaping industries, influencing public policy, and empowering communities. Business events, when designed with legacy in mind, can shape the future of industry sectors, from healthcare and education to sustainability and creative industries. They foster cross-sector collaboration, knowledge transfer, and social innovation. They can inspire behavior change, such as reducing waste, promoting inclusivity, and encouraging responsible travel. Ultimately, they leave behind something more enduring than memories: they leave impact. For association leaders, Sarawak’s legacy-driven strategy offers a timely lesson. In a post-pandemic world where relevance and resilience are paramount, associations must go beyond delivering events: they must create meaning. By embedding legacy goals into their programs, associations can align their events with community needs, national priorities, and global sustainability goals. This not only strengthens their societal value but also secures their future relevance. Sarawak’s journey demonstrates what’s possible when vision, collaboration, and purpose converge. Through “Legacy 360” and Leap, it has transformed business events into instruments of inclusive growth and environmental stewardship.

Octavio “Bobby” Peralta is the founder and volunteer CEO of

Octavio Peralta

A ssociation World

The PHL is still paradise, just off the radar

ONE of the most awaited honors in the global travel and tourism industry is the Readers’ Choice Awards of Conde Nast Traveler (CNT). The awards were published this week, and overall it was a bust for the Philippines. Sure, we made it to the Best in Asia categories, but unfortunately the country failed again to make the grade among the world’s best categories. Honestly, I wasn’t even counting on the Philippines landing in the “Best Cities” or the “Best Countries in the World” categories. We didn’t even make it to the “Friendliest Countries in the World!”

The Philippines, famous for the world over for putting our guests’ comfort and happiness first, and ensuring they have fun, never mind if we bust our wallets doing so, wasn’t even on that list. We smile at everyone, especially visitors from other parts of the globe, and generally help them be at ease in our culture, our food, and our traditions. (Although we’re actually sungit to each other, except when we’re sharing chismis. Go figure.)

Yet, we lost out to Thailand and Seychelles (tied at No. 8 with overall readers’ satisfaction scores each of 96.36), Mauritius and Chile (tied at 96.67), Vietnam (97.27), Cambodia (97.33), Bhutan (97.78), Mexico (98.00), Barbados (98.18), and topping the list was Kenya (98.46). So CNT readers don’t love the Philippines, huh?

Notice that four of those “friendliest countries” are Asian nations, which do not have a tradition of speaking English among their peoples. This just

MOTIVATED to address postharvest losses during rainy seasons and power outages in rural areas, young Filipino inventor John Dence Flores recently introduced a portable and sustainable system which allows farmers to dry palay all year round.

The Philippines is vulnerable to tropical cyclones, with an average of 22 typhoons annually. During these natural disasters, which have increased through the years due to climate change, local farmers face the challenge of drying grains of rice. This impediment poses a significant impact on their livelihood, as well as on the agricultural industry in general. “Around 408,764 metric tons of palay, which equates to 4.5 percent of the harvest in the Philippines, go to waste,” Flores lamented.

The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde graduate highlighted while that there are available facilities in the country, average farmers who do not have access to mass production equipment resort to the traditional sun drying method—a practice inadequate during prolonged rainfall or cloudy days. “It degrades the quality of grain and reduces the income of our farmers,” he added. “The failure to reduce the moisture content from newly harvested grain results in mold infection and brings about spoilage.”

underscores the fact that, for many travelers, they visit destinations for the sites, culture and food, and rarely because the locals speak English. So the powers-that-be should drop that as among the Philippines’ strengths as a tourist destination.

(Frankly, I’ve had beef with how the Department of Tourism spends its meager tourism marketing budget; like right now, instead of proclaiming the safety of Cebu and the Philippines to tourists all over the world, its Facebook page continues to wallow in self-pity due to the damage wrought by the recent earthquake in Cebu. One social media marketing expert asked me incredulously, “Why would you post this in a tourism page?” referring to a video of President Marcos Jr. and the DOT chief visiting the quake-hit areas. “It’s a turnoff to tourists!” Indeed. Hay.)

Meanwhile, Boracay ranked No. 4 with a score of 92.65 in the “Best Islands in Asia” category. It follows consistent top-ranking Bali (96.86), Lombok (94.86), and Sri Lanka (93.57), with Penang (88.57) bookending the list.

In the 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards, however, Boracay ranked ahead of Sri Lanka, while Palawan, Cebu and the Visayan Islands, and Siargao were also on that list.

Still, many of my friends on Boracay are celebrating the recognition, just happy to be ranked among the best. I cannot deny that as a beach destination, Boracay still ranks among the most superior with its creamy fine white sand and a wide array of hotels and resorts to fit all sorts of budgets. It is the default destination for our family for special events like birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.

However, its food choices, once the most excellent in the country in terms of the range of cuisines available, now cost more than in Metro Manila. I suppose, these are affordable for foreigners, who are getting more bang for their buck due to the depreciated peso. Now if only we can actually attract the international travelers back to the island.

Among the “Top 20 Resorts in Asia” this year, El Nido Resorts (Lagen, Apulit, Pangalusian, and Miniloc Islands) ranked no. 6 with a readers’ satisfaction

score of 98. (It received the same recognition in 2021.) Topping the list is Wildflower Hall, Shimla, India (99.67); followed by COMO Uma Punakha, Bhutan (99); Topas Ecolodge, Sapa, Vietnam (98.41); Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort, Siem Reap, Cambodia (98.27); and JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, Vietnam (98.02).

I’ve been fortunate to have stayed on Miniloc and Lagen islands in the past, and while I remember that the food at the buffet then were nothing to write home about, the rooms were quite splendid, offering a luxurious and comfortable stay. And of course, the service from the staff was just impeccable. But then I’d be hard-pressed to think of any hotel or resort in the country wanting in terms of staff service. We are, after all, known to be among the most hospitable people in the world, that the demand for Filipinos in hospitality establishments abroad are unceasing.

Also, the myriad of activities that one can engage in El Nido — kayaking over the turquoise waters, visiting a secluded island for swimming and snorkeling, cruising to check out impressive caves, even just bird-watching — remain in my core memory of the best things I’ve done as tourist. (Re: the food, my visits to these resorts took place many years ago and I assume that changes have been made in the kitchen.)

As for the “Best Resorts in The Rest of Asia”, Amanpulo, which has hosted Hollywood celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Madonna, Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, Jeremy Renner, and Rachel Weisz, etc. in the past, ranked fifth (94.77).

The list was toped by Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam (96.59); followed by The Datai Langkawi, Malaysia (96.58); Ahu Bay, Sri Lanka (95.77); and The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi, Malaysia (95.46).

Earlier, I also wrote about Palawan being on CNT editors’ list of winterscapes for 2026, a list published before the Readers’ Choice Awards. “Picture the Maldives, add soaring limestone karsts, and you’ve

To offer a practical solution to the recurring problem, the Industrial Design talent conceptualized and created Anihon, a drying system which is versatile, efficient, and affordable. Under the mentorship of his college thesis adviser and

then-course program chairperson Romeo Catap Jr., Flores engaged in months of research which included a series of onsite observations as well as surveys and interviews with the farmers of Gerry Rice Mill from his hometown in Albay. He was likewise able to build a working prototype with the guidance from engineers Leon Garcia and Jaycee Billiones, with support from Benilde Industrial Design educators Johann Kristian Mangussad, Noel Nikko Cagurangan, and

Marlon Barnuevo.

“Anihon offers continuous drying of palay for small farms and local cooperatives, who need a weather-independent simple machine which contributes to reducing the risk associated with unpredictable weather conditions,” he explained. With Anihon, farmers can increase production in far-flung areas and communities, especially those who do not have access to mass dryers.

A first of its kind, it offers sustainable drying with its hybrid electric and used waste oil system. It reduces carbon emissions.

Anihon introduces user-centric features, to include oil gauges and intuitive button designs, as well as tempered glass for visibility of operations. This allows the machine to be easily managed even by one person. Key components include four trays which can accommodate a maximum of 25 kilograms of wet palay each, plus a tank that can be filled with up to four liters of used cooking oil.

During power outages, Anihon can be used through its manual pugon (furnace) option with the help of an ignited carbon material. Overall, it offers eight hours of continuous premium drying with precision that assures consistent moisture reduction for improved quality. It is time-efficient with the dryer’s rapid cycle and quick turnaround—perfect for small farms.

Currently, Flores is working to further enhance and develop his invention.

By Eugenia Last

TAURUS

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Put your financial matters in order and your mind at rest. Work with institutions to implement changes that ensure the safety of your investments and your health. Don’t be shy; attend social events. The conversations and people you encounter will enrich your life and encourage you to stretch your mind and diversify your skills. ★★★

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Learn to laugh at yourself and mishaps. Attitude makes a difference today, so put a smile on your face and choose positive over negative responses, regardless of the people or situations you encounter. Anger solves nothing, but solid solutions will paint you as a leader and friend. ★★★★

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Short trips, reunions, conversations and getting your health and financial affairs up to date and running smoothly will make you feel good and offer you the freedom to have some long-overdue fun. Sign up for an event or plan to socialize with people who motivate and challenge you. ★★

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Shake things up and set yourself free. Make choices that leave you in a flexible position with no one to answer to, and you’ll find the path that brings you the most joy and rewards. Stop waiting for something to happen. Commit to yourself and what matters to you most, and satisfy your soul. ★★★★★

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Engage in something that makes you think, pumps up your skills or qualifications, or enhances how you present yourself to the world. Dedicate more time and thought to how you want to grow and pursue your dreams. Mapping out a plan will give you the strength and confidence to reach your goal. Romance is in the stars.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Change is favored, but it’s up to you to make it happen. Be aware of how others will react to the choices you make, and implement incentives that will help you get the support you need to follow your heart. Discipline is the key to getting what you want. ★★★

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Keep life simple; avoid temptation. Let conversations and hands-on help motivate you to do what’s right and to give back to your community. The people you encounter will change your perspective regarding purpose and what you want to pursue. A chance meeting or reconnecting with someone from your past will be enlightening. ★★★

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Ignore what isn’t going your way, and focus on traveling the road that offers hope, opportunity and fun. Enjoy what life offers, rather than pursuing a no-win situation. Implement domestic adjustments that encourage developing something you want to pursue, personal growth and financial security.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Take note of pending investments, health or legal matters, and discuss your options with whoever your choices may impact. Take advantage of an opportunity to socialize with or engage in discussions about prospects. Personal gain is within reach if you move swiftly to take advantage of an opportunity. Romance is in the stars.

BIRTHDAY BABY: You are unique, charming and popular. You are innovative and entertaining.

DOLLY PARTON RESPONDS TO CONCERNS ABOUT HER HEALTH: ‘I’M NOT DYING’

By Maria Sherman The Associated Press

NEW YORK—Dolly Parton “ain’t dead yet,” the country superstar said on social media on Wednesday following public speculation about her health.

“There are just a lot of rumors flying around. But I figured if you heard it from me, you’d know that I was okay,” the 79-year-old singer said in a new two-minute video posted on Instagram. “I’m not ready to die yet. I don’t think God is through with me. And I ain’t done working.”

Her post, which appeared on numerous of Parton’s social media accounts and her website, was captioned, “I ain’t dead yet.”

Late last month Parton postponed her first Las Vegas residency in 32 years, citing “health challenges.”

She did not provide specific details at the time, writing, “As many of you know, I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures. As I joked with them, it must be time for my 100,000-mile checkup, although it’s not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon!”

In the new video clip shared on Wednesday, Parton is seen sitting on a set speaking directly to camera, telling her audience that she’s about to record a few commercials for the Grand Ole Opry, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.

“Everyone thinks that I am sicker than I am. Do I look sick to you? I’m working hard here! Anyway, I wanted to put everybody’s mind at ease, those of you who seem to be real concerned, which I appreciate,” she continued.

“And I appreciate your prayers because I’m a person of faith. I can always use the prayers for anything and everything.”

Parton referenced her late husband of nearly 60 years Carl Dean, who died earlier this year at age 82. “I want you to know that I’m OK. I’ve got some problems as I’ve mentioned. Back when my husband Carl was very sick, that was for a long time, and then when he passed, I didn’t take care of myself. So I let a lot of things go that I should’ve been taking care of,” she said.

“So anyway, when I got around to it, the doctor said ‘We need to take care of this. We need to take care of that.’ Nothing major but I did have to cancel some things so I could be closer to home, closer to Vanderbilt, where I’m kind of having a few treatments here and there.”

And in true Parton fashion, she ended with a joke. “But I wanted you to know that I’m not dying. Did you see that AI picture of Reba [McEntire] and me, oh Lordy! I mean, they had Reba at my death bed, and we both look like we need to be buried,” she laughed.

Continued from B4

arrived at the islands of Palawan. The Philippines’ most sparsely populated region has lately become the whispered-about tropical Shangri-La, and was the original inspiration for Alex Garland’s The Beach the sneakster just didn’t want anyone to find it, so set the story in Thailand instead,” CNT said. (See “Palawan high on Condé Nast winter escape list,” BusinessMirror, September 16, 2025.) Thank goodness for small mercies, I guess. But really, DOT and its attached agencies must do a better job of marketing the Philippines to foreign tourists. The Marcos Jr. administration has less than three years to implement a strategic campaign to at least get us back to the prepandemic arrivals of 8.3 million. A small budget is not an excuse; the DOT has dealt with that limitation under previous administrations. It’s about crafting the right message that will resonate with travelers first, the best reasons to visit the country, and maybe after they can acknowledge that they love the Philippines.

Guinness, the epic, not the drink

GOTHIC and grand is the beginning of this tale about an enterprise. The patriarch Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness has died. In one unforgettable scene, an undertaker fixes the smile on the corpse of the old Guinness before the body is placed in a hearse. But the burial is not going to be easy for the Fenians as the Irish Republican Brotherhood is known to not allow the funeral procession to pass quietly.

But the Guinness family is complete. There is Arthur, recently back from London; Edward, the second son who has taken a more responsible position in the brewery; Anne, confident but married; and the troubled, alcoholic Benjamin.

Among the workers in the brewery, Rafferty is the loyal henchman who will see to it that the funeral proceeds quietly even if he has to use a kind of force; after all, the old man has made the lives of these workers more pleasant and it is their supreme duty to see to it that path to heaven be secure at least for the father.

The Fenians assume that with the death of the older Guinness, the empire is crumbling apart. Who would have thought that there was more to this brewery than mere bottling.

As the story unfolds, the two brothers, Arthur and Edward, have firmed up their plans even as the will had not yet been read. The more astute of the two,

Edward has already offered to buy the shares of the brewery from Arthur, given that the latter would not be interested in running the enterprise. It seems they knew beforehand that, given the youngest brother’s addiction, he would not be given responsibility in the brewery.

There are deeper secrets. One is the affair that Anne has with Rafferty. But more delicate than this is the case of Arthur. In that genteel scene at the park where he walks around and finds himself chatting with a ‘gentleman,’ we are immediately led into his life as a closeted homosexual.

This is one most interesting linchpin in the story— what to do with Arthur and his proclivities, given the moral code of the era. As he will need to run for the parliament to take the place of this departed father, he will need to present himself as “normal” as the next person. This means that he needs to marry. At this point, their aunt and sister will be engaged to find the suitable partner for Arthur in a marriage that is described as a lavender union or “a mariage blanc”—a marriage that is not consummated.

Indeed, Arthur finds a ‘lady’ who concedes to this arrangement. To complicate the matter, Edward has become a forward-thinking entrepreneur introducing reforms in the brewery, including offering a pension for those retiring. More than that, Edward extends his goodwill to the “Fenian” woman, an extremely radical move that moves his brother to tears and despair.

With a color palette out to rival any kind of chiaroscuro available for camera lenses, House of Guinness is a handsome package of a cinema. From that scene with a hearse being pelted by the mob to the post-funeral dance, the energy of the scenes are at turn stately, macabre, and majestic.

It’s the Gilded Age with lots of soot; an era of gaslight and gaslighting.

The cast is stellar. As Anne Plunket nee Guinness, Emily Fairn addresses her siblings with those doe

eyes that could be docile and yet duplicitous. She is vulnerable only insofar as she would allow herself to be. Walking through the countless graves in a castle town she is fated to visit, Anne allows us to see what perhaps her brothers in their privilege never see.

As Benjamin, Fionn O’Shea with his curly locks all but covering his face is a tragic figure waiting to happen. In the wedding dance, he seems to find himself with a woman not meant for him at all.

An interesting character in the story is Rafferty, the security for Guinness. He is played by James Norton, a stocky man out to fulfil the needs of other women. Again, during the wedding night of Arthur, Rafferty gazes at the bride and you can almost guess where these glances are going to bring these characters to.

As the two brothers, Anthony Boyle and Louis Partridge as Arthur and Edward, respectively, are a joy to watch. Even if they are conflicted or debating against each other, we know they are two peas in a pod. They can never be separated. Deep within, they understand each other—the devil in each other’s heart, or the goodness in those eyes. The audience— and the fans—will forever talk about the shameless frontal done by Boyle. In interviews, he talks about how he denied the use of prosthetics because he wanted to show the prowess of his character. Watch the scene and be amazed.

As for Partridge, he is breathtakingly patrician that we can imagine him to be almost like the rotogravure photo of a Barrymore. He can stand in the shadow and that is all that is needed to drive home the point of savvy and pomp.

Let’s not forget Ellen Cochrane, the Fenian woman, as essayed by the lovely Niam McCormack. House of Guinness was created by Steven Knight. Written by Steven Knight, it is directed by Tom Shankland and Mounia Aki. The steampunk music is by Ilan Eskeri. The film is produced for Netflix by Kudos.

GMA Network dominates 2025 Asian Academy Creative Awards

Philippines’ highest rating program Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho: Inside the Crocodile Cage won for Best Infotainment Program, while Reporter’s Notebook: Asia’s Scam Cities was awarded Best Documentary Series. I Juander: History for Sale was recognized as Best Documentary

GMA Pictures, secured further victories in its growing list of accolades, with Dennis Trillo named Best Actor in a Leading Role, and National Artist Ricky Lee and GMA Public Affairs senior assistant vice president Angeli Atienza winning for Best Screenplay. Scoring back-to-back wins is GMA

Integrated News (GMAIN). Its innovative election campaign Eleksyonaryo: The Dapat Totoo Digital Exclusives produced by GMAIN Social Media; and DigiDokyu: The Rice God of the Cordillera produced by GMAIN-Digital Strategy and Innovation

Filinvest Named Asia’s Elite, Developer of the Year at Hubexo Asia Awards 2025

Filinvest has been listed as one of the Elite Award winners at the Hubexo Asia Awards 2025, a rare honor given only to architecture and developer firms that have consistently excelled by winning 10 or more times over the past two decades. This elite recognition celebrates industry pioneers who have set the benchmark for innovation and achievement across seven key Asian markets: Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

On top of this exclusive milestone, Filinvest also secured a place among the Top 10 Developers in Asia Awards 2025. This distinction recognizes firms that are shaping the future of the region’s real estate industry through scale, impact, and consistent delivery of high-quality developments. This dual recognition underscores the strength of Filinvest’s real estate businesses, affirming its position as among the region’s most outstanding, resilient, and future-focused developers— trusted to shape innovative communities that continue to set new benchmarks for excellence.

Filinvest earned its place among this exclusive circle through the combined achievements of its real estate arms, Filinvest Land, Inc. (FLI) and Filinvest Alabang, Inc. (FAI). Their multiple wins over the years at the Hubexo Asia Awards reflect the group’s enduring leadership and unwavering commitment to building sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready communities.

Filinvest Land, Inc., one of the country’s most trusted and multi-awarded full-range developers, has established a

nationwide footprint with a diverse portfolio of residential communities, integrated townships, commercial centers, offices, coliving spaces, and industrial parks. Guided by its mission to enrich Filipino lives, FLI continues to bring innovative, accessible, and meaningful developments to different parts of the Philippines.

Filinvest Alabang, Inc. (FAI) is the group’s premier high-end residential and township arm. Its flagship development, Filinvest City in Alabang, is the country’s only township with both LEED Gold and BERDE certifications— an embodiment of excellence in sustainable urban planning. FAI’s multi-awarded luxury residential brand, Filigree, showcases its commitment to superior design, comfort, and quality through standout developments such as Botanika Nature Residences and Golf Ridge Private Estate.

These prime examples reflect FAI’s dedication to creating refined, future-ready communities that elevate modern living. With its pioneering approach and best-in-class portfolio, FAI continues to set the benchmark for high-value residential developments.

“To be named among the Elite Asia Award winners is both humbling and inspiring. It affirms Filinvest Land’s decades-long commitment to building communities that

improve lives, while also challenging us to continue raising the bar of excellence. This milestone is not just about looking back at our achievements, but about strengthening our vision of a more inclusive and sustainable future,” said FLI President and CEO Tristan Las Marias.

“We are honored to be recognized for pioneering communities that balance progress, environmental stewardship, and livability. This award affirms Filinvest Alabang’s position at the forefront of sustainable township developments and also our commitment to providing worldclass homes for discerning clientele with our luxury residential brand Filigree. It inspires us to continue setting new standards in the industry.” said FAI President and CEO Catherine Ilagan.

Being named an Elite Asia Award winner is both a recognition of Filinvest’s past achievements and a call to continue its pioneering work in shaping the future of real estate. The recognition comes at a special milestone, as the Filinvest Group marks its 70th year, further affirming its enduring legacy of excellence, while reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in nation-building and as one of Asia’s benchmark setters in property development.

Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort elevates food ‘waste’in Food For Thought events

DUSIT Thani Lubi Plantation Resort proudly joins Food For Thought, a month-long initiative by Dusit International that aims to champion a nowaste philosophy and to foster cultural appreciation.

“Sustainability is the heartbeat of Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort,” says General Manager Thanthita Nithimetheesanont. “We are excited to show our guests how they can carry these sustainability practices to their own homes.”

Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort will spotlight scraps and turn them into gourmet dishes for their upcoming events, the Full Circle Feast dinner on October 11, 2025. The resort’s Executive Chef Julien Cossé combines his French heritage and technique with fresh, local Filipino produce for this one-nightonly event. These carefully curated dishes will pair beautifully with fruit wines and other beverages fermented in-house.

Trend Micro pushes for proactive cybersecurity at DECODE 2025

LEADING cybersecurity company Trend Micro recently concluded its annual free-for-all cybersecurity conference DECODE 2025: Maximize Momentum. Now in its ninth year, DECODE 2025 was attended by over 600 cybersecurity professionals and featured a variety of talks led by local and global industry experts, hands-on activities, and engaging demonstrations highlighting the current state of the cybersecurity landscape.

“This year, we found it important to emphasize proactive cybersecurity amidst the escalation of AIassisted threats. Through DECODE, we are able to share our research on the various threats and landscape with fellow industry professionals and experts, so that businesses and individuals alike can learn how to best protect themselves,” shared Alma Saturnino-Alvarez, Trend Micro’s Director for Threat Research and founder of DECODE.

This year’s conference zeroed in on prevalent AI-backed cybercrime attacks as well as agentic AI, automotive cybersecurity, and what local law enforcement is doing to improve the Philippines’ cyber posture. From over 22 different talks and sessions led by senior Trend Micro researchers and partner law enforcement experts, DECODE 2025 shed light on the most pressing issues concerning the cybersecurity landscape today.

With its widespread availability and ease of use, people are becoming more trusting of generative AI and AI-based applications. This accessibility comes with a number of risks for users, such as deepfakes through image and audio manipulation, and more complex online scams through generated storylines and contextualized requests. A key topic throughout the event’s various panels and discussions, experts highlighted how these emerging AI technologies require a more proactive approach to cybersecurity in order to remain resilient and maintain a robust defense against AI-backed threats.

During the keynote speech, David Sancho, Senior Threat Researcher at Trend Micro, shared the three main risks professionals and everyday citizens should be mindful of as more and more people become reliant on AI. In people allowing AI to “think” for them, there is an erosion of skills, job opportunities, and ultimately, trust. Younger generations are finding it increasingly difficult to write independently due to increased dependence on AI technology, and simultaneously, companies and organizations are exchanging human manpower for AI systems and tools, taking away opportunities from capable individuals.

Out of the three risks, the third and most pressing, according to Sancho, is the erosion of trust. From fake news articles to realistic videos that feature non-existent events, paired with the prevalence of social media, it has become increasingly difficult for everyday citizens to

differentiate the real from the AI. These risks of generative AI are, therefore, what professionals and everyday people must keep in mind to better understand and regulate the negative effects of these new technologies.

In a dedicated session titled “Cyber Warfare Is Cyber Resilience: Maximizing Operational Momentum in the Philippine Army,” Lt Col. Rod Quinto of the Philippine Army shared the force’s roadmap to further strengthen the country’s cybercrime defense from threat actors and the evolving local threat landscape.

The Philippine Army is shifting its approach to cybersecurity from perimeter defense to operational resilience. This focuses on priming the force according to three key pillars: proactive preparation, actionable threat intelligence, and strategic response planning. “Cyber resilience isn’t about preventing every attack — it’s about maintaining mission effectiveness despite the attack,” stressed Quinto.

To achieve cyber resilience, Quinto stressed the value of collaborative defense, highlighting how the fight against cybercrime should be a collective effort from both the private and public sectors. “Our strongest defense is the unity of effort across all domains and sectors,” he shared.

While there are a number of countermeasures and new technologies being established globally to combat the various threats organizations and individuals face every day, a key point underlined by the experts throughout DECODE 2025 is the importance of cybersecurity education and knowledge-sharing as the ultimate protection from cyberattacks. Through initiatives such as DECODE, Trend Micro hopes to encourage more individuals to invest in their cybersecurity and to be mindful of the many threats posed by the technology we utilize in our daily lives. DECODE 2025: Maximize Momentum is only one initiative under Trend Micro’s mission statement of being #EngineeredToDoGood. To access free resources and more information about cybersecurity for professionals and non-professionals alike, visit Trend Micro’s official website www.trendmicro.com, and its official Facebook Page.

Learn Seascape Painting @ Sunshine Place

SET your creativity afloat and capture the beauty of the sea in watercolor!

Enroll in a six-session course on

Seascape Painting at Sunshine Place as part of its Watercolor Masterclass Series every Saturday starting October 16, 2025 from 2 pm to 5 pm.

On October 18 and 25, 2025, the island transforms the weekly Lubi Night Market into a No-Waste Night Market, a culinary celebration of the Filipino philosophy of walang sayang (no waste). Filipino favorites that embody this philosophy – isaw, adidas, betamax, and more – will take center stage during the island’s street food fest. As guests enjoy their street eats, island chefs will also showcase creative uses of scrap ingredients during their No Waste Cooking Demos.

In-house guests can savor the No-Waste Night Market for P1,500 nett. Outside guests are invited to join the Night Market’s lively atmosphere at the Night Tour rate of P2,700 nett.

It’s time to discover how sustainability meets fine cuisine. Book your exclusive island getaway at Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort by visiting www. dusit.com/dusitthani-lubiplantationresort/ or calling 0917-109-3001.

In-house guests can enjoy Chef Julien’s carefully crafted Full Circle Feast menu at P1,800 nett. For P2,700, outside guests may join the experience as exclusive Night Tour participants.

Visual artist Sir Jen Consumido, who promotes watercolor as a fine art medium, will guide workshop participants step by step as they explore techniques for soft sunsets, rolling waves, rocky coasts and even boats at rest by the seashore. Participants will learn mixing ocean blues and coastal color palettes; painting skies, clouds, and horizons; creating wave textures and reflections; adding details like sand, rocks, and boats; and designing dramatic, atmospheric seascapes By the end of the series, they will have a collection of beautiful seascape studies and a completed, gallery-worthy final piece—plus the confidence to paint the ocean anytime inspiration strikes.

For inquiries and to enroll please contact T. (632) 856-4144 / 856-4162, M. (0917) 515-5656 or E. hello@sunshineplaceph.com. Follow Sunshine Place online: http://

www.sunshineplaceph.com/, FB @ SunshinePlace56Jupiter; IG @sunshineplaceph; Youtube Sunshine Place: Senior Recreation Center; and Hashtags #sunshineplacephonline, #sunshineneverstopshining, #SunshineBelieveinYourself, #SunshineDontGiveUp, #SunshineIamFittoFightor #SunshineHealthyAlltheWay.

Mitsubishi Motors PH Turns Over Vehicle to Help Address Learning Poverty and Malnutrition in Laguna

MITSUBISHI Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) and the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) formally signed the Deed of Donation and Partnership, marking the official turnover of a Mitsubishi Strada Athlete pickup in support of the DUNONG Program (Department of Education–Laguna–University of the Philippines Los Baños Nurturing Opportunities for the Next Generation Towards Ending Learning Poverty in the Philippines).

The program responds to pressing concerns in education and nutrition, with many children struggling to read with comprehension and others attending school without proper meals. By combining education and feeding initiatives, the program aims to give children not only the ability to read and learn, but also the nourishment to thrive.

During the ceremony, MMPC Chairman Noriaki Hirakata highlighted the importance of

partnership between industry and the academe in driving long-term progress. “Today’s turnover is a symbol of partnership, one that brings together the strengths of industry and academia to support the growth of knowledge, innovation, and national progress,” he shared. Meanwhile, MMPC President & CEO Ritsu Imaeda emphasized that supporting initiatives like the DUNONG Program is aligned with the company’s broader mission of nation-building. “At Mitsubishi Motors, our mission has always been about more than producing quality vehicles. We aim to be a trusted partner in nation-building, contributing to the progress of the Philippines not only through mobility, but also through programs that uplift lives,” Imaeda said.

UPLB Chancellor Jose V. Camacho, Jr. expressed his gratitude to MMPC for supporting the program’s mission of nurturing future generations. “The Strada Athlete donated today

will be a crucial partner in the implementation of DUNONG. With it, we can reach schools, parents, and communities more effectively, ensuring that children grow not just in learning but also in health,” said Camacho. UPLB also stressed the broader impact of the partnership and the contribution of MMPC through the message of its Vice Chancellor Janette Malata-Silva. “MMPC’s commitment to social responsibility, especially in community and education, is an inspiration. We are grateful for this partnership that helps create a brighter future for the next generation,” MalataSilva said. Through this collaboration, MMPC reaffirms its long-standing commitment to education and community development, investing not only in mobility solutions, but also in programs that strengthen the future of the nation.

In the photo are, from left, Carla Cruz, Concepcion Carrier Brand Marketing Head; Alphonso Rodriguez, Concepcion Carrier Director for Business Development; Winnie H. Lim, Filinvest Land Chief Technical Planning Officer; Shannan Golding, Hubexo Head of Events – Asia Pacific; and Paolo Rellama, Hubexo Data Partner Manager – Asia Pacific.

Editor: Tet Andolong • www.businessmirror.com.ph

Motoring BusinessMirror

Sim racers duke it out this weekend; Mitsubishi donates

TOYOTA Motor Philippines (TMP) has announced the Top 40 quarterfinalists for its premier sim racing tournament, the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing eSports GT Championship 2025.

Mark Luigi Bautista says more than 250 participants put in their fastest lap time around the Suzuka East Short Course on Gran Turismo 7 on the Toyota Supra RZ’20, 40 of them advancing on October 11 at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay.

The Top 20 will advance to the semifinals on October 12, with the Top 10 finishers battling it out in the finals later in the day to select the Philippine representatives to the TGR Asia eSports GT Championship.

There will also be car displays of the GR Yaris, GR Supra and GR 86, as well as the Vios one-make-race car (OMR) and Tamaraw OMR that were driven during the 2025 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup.

“We congratulate the sim racers who made it to the quarterfinals and look forward to seeing them push their limits at the live event at Ayala Malls Manila Bay. We invite everyone to come experience the thrilling world of eSports with us,” said TMP Vice President for Marketing Services Elvin Luciano.

The event is sanctioned by the Automobile Association Philippines, sponsored by Petron and GT Radial and supported by Seiko, Toyota Financial Services Philippines, Tuason Racing, AVT, 3M, Denso, OMP, ROTA, Autoplus, PIAA, Vinyl Frog Premier Vehicle Wraps, AutoQuix, Sparco, myTOYOTA Wallet and Kinto One.

For more information, follow TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and TikTok. Mitsubishi & UPLB

MITSUBISHI Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) recently donated to the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) a Mitsubishi Strada Athlete pick-up in support of the DUNONG Program (Department of Education–Laguna–University of the Philippines Los Baños Nurturing Opportunities for the Next Generation Towards Ending Learning Poverty in the Philippines).

Faye Alexis Marcelino reports that the program responds to pressing concerns in education and nutrition, with many children struggling to read with comprehension and others attending school without proper meals. By combining education and feeding initiatives, the program aims to give children not only the ability to read and learn, but also the nourishment to thrive.

“Today’s turnover is a symbol of partnership—one that brings together the strengths of industry and academia to support the growth of knowledge, innovation and national progress,” said MMPC chairman Noriaki Hirakata.

For his part, MMPC President & CEO Ritsu Imaeda said:

“At Mitsubishi, our mission has always been about more than producing quality vehicles. We aim to be a trusted partner in nation-building, contributing to the progress of the Philippines not only through mobility, but also through programs that uplift lives.”

UPLB Chancellor Jose V. Camacho, Jr. said: “The Strada Athlete will be a crucial partner in the implementation of DUNONG. With it, we can reach schools, parents, and communities more effectively, ensuring that children grow not just in learning but also in health.”

BAGUIO CLIMB WITH THE NEW FORD TERRITORY HYBRID

& photos

Story

by Randy S. Peregrino

NOW that Ford Philippines has brought in its first entry into the hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) segment in the country, it was time to experience the new Territory Hybrid on the road. Recently, an experiential drive was organized for the motoring media to test the power and efficiency of the latest Territory Hybrid version.

Joseph Eid 0:57.093

Jiro Marcelino Cruz 0:57.127

Jo Hashimoto 0:57.142

Jhan Vernon Ablir 0:57.166

Mark Voltaire Elman 0:57.194

Paolo Ayo 0:57.237

Sean Mervin Ronquillo 0:57.240

Karl Bryan Bonono 0:57.250

Elizabeth Mae Gumila 0:57.253

Bernard Villangca 0:57.271

James Michael Ortiz 0:57.275

Matt Frederic See 0:57.275

Sherwin Rada 0:57.286

Prince Von Erico Contreras 0:57.297

Alanzo Matteo Gonzaga 0:57.317

Vito Clodualdo Paul Manas 0:57.318

Diomel Railey Pingul 0:57.337 Corban Guerrero 0:57.340

The day started at the Seda Hotel in Manila Bay, where more than 10 brandnew units of the top-spec Titanium X variants were commissioned. The choice of destination is Camp John Hay in Baguio. Along the way, we tested the new vehicle’s dynamics on the freeway, winding roads, and climbs. One thing was certain; it did not disappoint.

Now in hybrid, finally

THE main highlight of the latest Territory is its hybrid system. Motivation comes from a 1.5-liter turbocharged dedicated hybrid engine, an electric traction motor, and a 1.83-kWh Lithium-Ion Nickel-CobaltManganese high-voltage battery. Power is transferred via a two-speed dedicated hybrid transmission. On paper, the dedicated hybrid engine produces 148 hp and 230 N-m of torque. The electric traction motor delivers 215 hp and 315 N-m of torque. This enables acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds.

This hybrid powertrain operates in EV, series, parallel, or energy recovery modes depending on the battery state of charge, driving speed, and throttle response. On the other hand, the three driving modes are Eco, Normal, and Sport. Even the steering feel is customizable thanks to the selectable power steering modes: Comfort, Normal, and Sport.

Freeway runs were fun

OF course, what comes with experiencing a hybrid powertrain is its proven fuel efficiency. For the initial leg, all participants were tasked to achieve the highest fuel economy theoretical reading from an over 220-kilometer drive distance. Set in ECO mode, we took the Skyway, NLEX, and TPLEX route with a couple of stops for a

short break.

Behind the wheel, the hybrid setup is a smooth operator. A light tap on the accelerator was enough to keep the speed in check. But press it further, and the sudden and instantaneous acceleration was there, as expected from the electric motor. Keeping the adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go enabled made the entire freeway run blissful. The other ADAS functions, such as the lane departure warning and lane keeping aid, also enabled the vehicle to be steady while on a long stretch at high speed.

On the road, the vehicle was well planted and stable, even on high-speed limits. The improved NVH level was evident thanks to the latest laminated window glass. Even the road noises were muffled enough. The ride leaned toward the sporty side with enough suppleness to absorb rough paths. But tire rebounds were there due to the low series tires.

One of the things that the current generation Territory’s high points is its

spacious and techy cabin. Inside, there are fresh materials and trims. The seats are now draped with dual-tone perforated leather material with yellow stitching. Notable is the new and improved headrest, which complements the seat’s electronic multiadjustment.

The same yellow stitching is found on leather-wrapped door panels, armrests, and the center console. The Titanium X variant features the latest multi-color ambient lighting and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. On the other hand, the 12-inch vehicle infotainment system with voice recognition is standard. It now has upgraded hardware and new energy flow information. The new Human Machine Interface (HMI) design now makes sense whenever we need to change the A/C temperature. It did not interfere with the phone projection.

Over 220 kilometers later, we reached the end of TPLEX for another stop before the Kenon climb. Impressively, our assigned vehicle registered a theoretical fuel consumption reading of over 17 km/L from a real-world driving approach with speeds between 80 to 100 km/h. Not bad at all.

Tackling climbs and tight turns

With 315 N-m of torque at our disposal, the Kenon Road climb was a walk in the park for the hybrid powertrain. All we had to do was focus on braking and turns.

Even in ECO mode, the torque registration was unrelenting, as if the frame were small and light. Interestingly, the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine/generator did not even work hard to supply electric juice. The electric power was steady and consistent, minus the high-revving sound from the engine/generator. Just like that, we reached Camp John Hay feeling relaxed and went on to photograph the vehicle.

Exterior-wise, the front end received significant design enhancements on the

hood, fenders, and the new pronounced front grille bearing a honeycomb pattern. It complements the latest integrated front LED lighting system, featuring daytime running lights, the coast-to-coast LED bar (Titanium X), and a redesigned bumper. As for the rear, the

NBA returns to China: Back to normal, really?

By Tim Reynolds

The Associated Press

THE last time the National Basketball Association (NBA) went to China, there was silence.

They were two of the most awkward games probably ever played, a pair of preseason matchups between the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers with some fans barely reacting to anything and no press conferences held afterward.

This time, it’s going to be very different. Back to normal, it would seem.

The Nets and Phoenix Suns have made their way to the Chinese gambling hub of Macao for two preseason games—one Friday, the other on Sunday, and marking the NBA’s first games played in China since 2019.

There are two more games planned for next season in China as well.

“I think it’s very important for us to be able to bring the live game experience, including live games, to as many fans of the NBA around the world,” NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum said. “And there’s no doubt that China has one of the largest fanbases in the world—hundreds of millions of fans in China, 300 million people play the game of basketball in China, and our mission is to inspire and connect people everywhere through the game of basketball.” There was a time where it seemed uncertain if that connecting would still be possible.

A geopolitical rift was sparked by a tweet posted by Daryl Morey— then the general manager of the Houston Rockets, now of the Philadelphia 76ers—that was in support of anti-government protesters in Hong Kong. China severed most ties

‘Run as One’ in PHL Girl Scouts 85th anniversary

THE Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) marks its 85th anniversary with a milestone celebration—“Run as One: 85 Years in the Running” Fun Run—on Sunday at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.

The fun-filled event gathers Girl Scouts, alumnae, families and friends from all over the country to celebrate 85 years of empowering girls and young women to become leaders and agents of change.

The fun run features distances of 850 meters, 5 kms, 8 kms and 13 kms symbolizing GSP’s 85 years of continuous service and sisterhood. Each participant will receive a race kit that includes a race singlet, rucksack, race bib, finisher medal, finisher shirt (for 8K and 13K only) and freebies.

More than a fitness event, the fun run also serves as a reminder of the values of unity, perseverance, and community that remain at the heart of the Girl Scouting movement.

For inquiries and confirmation of attendance, please contact Peachie Rama at 09190814675 or email at communicationsgsp@ gmail.com.

The GSP is a non-stock, nonprofit, non-partisan organization chartered under the Philippine Congress in 1940 and for 85 years, it has empowered girls and young women to develop their fullest potential as responsible citizens and leaders through the Girl Scouting Program.

with the NBA for some time, taking games off its broadcast channels, and the process of mending at least some fences took years. Even now, the games come at a turbulent time and there is trade friction between the US and China, with both sides threatening skyhigh tariffs on the others’ exports.

And the NBA has long heard criticisms from lawmakers—on both sides of the aisle—about not taking a stronger public stance about China’s human rights record.

“Much of the sports industry is based on relationships and we think sports plays a unique role in building community—not just in the United States but around the world and particularly at

times of heightened division,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said. “Whether that division is domestically or globally there’s almost nothing else I can think of that brings together communities like sports does, and particularly a sport like basketball that is globally played, globally understood.”

The Nets and Suns will play at Macao’s Venetian Arena, which is owned by the Las Vegas Sands Corp.—which is a casino operator there as well. Sands president and chief operating officer Patrick Dumont is governor of the Dallas Mavericks, assuming that role after his family acquired the team.

“Obviously, we know this is great for the Phoenix Suns and our community, our whole organization and the NBA,” Suns coach Jordan Ott said.

The Nets are owned by Joe Tsai, the chairman of Chinese tech giant Alibaba. And this NBA season comes with high hopes for a Chinese rookie: Yang Hansen, a 7-foot-

1 draft pick who is expected to play a role for the Portland Trail Blazers this season.

He’s thrilled that the NBA is headed back there, finally.

“I want to say firstly, playing for the Blazers is a wonderful thing for me, and I wish that I can take all the players and management and coaches to China for sure in the future,” Yang said with the support of an interpreter. “For sure, I wish [for] more games in China. ... That works for me perfectly. I just wish that in the future, we can have it—I can also play in front of all my homies, which is also the proudest thing for me.”

China is an important market for the NBA, for obvious reasons. If the NBA’s numbers are right—300 million fans—that’s 300 million potential consumers in a basketballcrazed part of the world. The Blazers are already seeing how impactful that can be.

“One thing that I noticed this summer, and I’ve been with the team almost 13 years, we were No. 1 in the league in social media rankings in July during Summer League, which I’ve never seen before,” Trail Blazers President Dewayne Hankins said. “And a lot of that was due to the incredible audience that Yang Hansen brings to us.” This has been no secret for some time. Chinese fans love the NBA, plain and simple, and want more.

JOY ASEO took over in the absence of Shaina Nitura to propel Adamson Univer sity to the second round with a quick sweep of Arellano Univer sity, 25-21, 25-17, 25-19, in the Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Pre season Unity Cup on Thursday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Aseo whipped up 12 points in the Lady Falcons’ second straight victory in as many games as they joined playoffs-bound and also unbeaten Far Eastern University at the top of Pool B. Adamson University, which rested Nitura, was in full control of the match and booted out the Lady Chiefs in just 77 minutes.

“We were patient and played as a team,” said Aseo, who had eight kills and four aces. “Win or lose, we always keep pushing ourselves.”

Red Bascon finished with eight points while Abegail Segui and

THE Mindanao leg of the 2025 Indigenous Peoples Games will take place in Buenavista in Agusan del Norte this Saturday and Sunday.

Norwood to hang up jersey?

RBy Josef Ramos

AIN or Shine’s Gabe Norwood—a many-time national player and member of the 2014 Gilas Pilipinas World Cup team—on Thursday hinted at retiring after the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup.

“One last conference. One last ride. One last flight,” Norwood posted through his social media accounts.

Norwood, 40, is playing in his 17th season in the PBA all at Rain or Shine, which picked him first overall in the 2008 draft.

He helped the Elasto Painters with the 2012 Governors’ Cup and 2016 Commissioner’s Cup and was equally responsible for his team’s six finals appearances since 2006.

Norwood—a tall guard at 6-foot8—first became a member of the national team in 2007 and is best remembered for his dunk over Argentina’s National Basketball Association player Luis Scola in the 2014 World Cup in Seville.

TNT Tropang Giga, Phoenix Super LPG, Blackwater and Terrafirma, meanwhile, will be playing

AS one of the spearheads of San Miguel Beer’s bench mob, Don Trollano’s effort has finally paid off.

The 33-year-old guard will be recognized as Mr. Quality Minutes in t he Philippine Basketball Association Press Corps 31st Annual Awards Night on Monday at the Novotel Manila.

Frances Mordi added six points each for Adamson University, which annexed the National Invitationals Cebu Leg two months ago.

Jazmine Palalon and Jayde Dela Cruz scored seven and six points, respectively, to pace Arellano University, which ended its campaign with a 1-2 win-loss record.

College of Saint Benilde, meanwhile, rallied from a set down and survived an extended fourth frame in an 18-25, 25-13, 25-23, 33-31, victory over Ateneo de Manila University to complete a three-

Indigenous Peoples Games up in Agusan del Norte

Organizers, however, are keeping their fingers crossed that the weather would cooperate following the postponement of the Visayas leg that was scheduled last September 27 and 28 in Iloilo City because of a typhoon.

The PSC, according to Gaston, is still trying to squeeze in the Luzon leg in Ilocos Norte next month or any other window between the Batang Pinoy in General Santos City later this

month and the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand in December.

“The people of Agusan del Norte are very excited. To them, this is a very huge event. The delegations will start arriving in Buenavista tomorrow,” Gaston told the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex Conference Room.

Buenavista Mayor Joselito Roble

game sweep of Pool D.

The Lady Blazers turned to veteran Zam Nolasco for the finishing blows in the furious fourth set race to the finish to emerge unscathed in the group stage.

Saint Benilde squandered three match point advantages and had to fight through five set point deficits.

Nolasco tied the fourth frame one last time at 31 with a booming kill before shutting the door on Zey Pacia to push the Lady Blazers to match point.

Trollano averaged 9.4 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.2 assists coming off the bench for the Beermen and was one of the major players in San Miguel Beer regaining the Philippine Cup title last season.

e became the sixth Beerman to be bestowed with the honor that is equivalent to the Sixth Man of the Year award.

Past recipients of the award from San Miguel Beer were Bong Alvarez, the late Boybits Victoria, Chris Calaguio, Terrence Romeo and Jericho Cruz.

Sharing the spotlight with Trollano during the gala night are members of the All-Rookie Team led by Rookie of the Year winner RJ Abarrientos of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.

Joining Abarrientos in the team are fellow Rookie of the Year official candi -

TENNIS sensation Alex Eala captured her breakthrough Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) singles title anw d served as anchor as Filipino athletes made it a “September to remember.”

On a high from her milestone first-round victory at the US Open main draw in August, Eala followed up with her maiden championship run at the Guadalajara WTA 125 Open in Mexico.

The 20-year-old ace fought with much intensity and passion all the way through, sealing it with a searing comeback from a set down to beat Hungary’s Panna Udvardy, 1-6, 7-5, 6-3. With her exploits, Eala smashed her way to the top of the Philippine Sportswriters Association’s roster of achievers for the ninth month of 2025. Pole vaulter EJ Obiena, the Alas Pilipinas Men, darter Lovely Mae “Bebang” Orbeta and pickleball player Bambi Zoleta also produced noteworthy performances in the other fronts. Obiena helped stage a world-class street pole vault event—Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge at the Ayala Triangle—and gave local fans a complete treat by beating his

f irst ever semis stint during the Governors’ Cup and Commissioner’s Cup.

ADAM SILVER: Much of the sports industry is based on relationships. AP