THE government’s infrastructure spending dropped by 21.8 percent to P84.9 billion in August, as project validation by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and adverse weather conditions slowed disbursements.
Latest data from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) showed infrastructure expenditure and other capital outlays fell to P84.9 billion in August from P108.6 billion in the same month last year.
The downturn stemmed from the ongoing validation of the
status of implementation, quality and completion of infrastructure projects implemented by the DPWH nationwide, according to the DBM.
The review process has held up contractors’ submission of progress billings, as well as the timelines for the processing of payment claims and disbursement of funds.
Compounding the setback were adverse weather conditions in August, which slowed the construction of various infrastructure projects, particularly in areas or regions hit by heavy Habagat rains and typhoons.
Despite this, higher disbursements were recorded by the De -
partment of Transportation (DOTr) for local counterpart funds for foreign-assisted projects and the Department of Education (DepEd) for the construction, rehabilitation, and repair of school buildings--helping temper the contraction in infrastructure spending.
From January to August, infrastructure and other capital outlays also declined by 5.6 percent to P798.4 billion from P845.3 billion in the same period a year ago.
“Infrastructure spending was lower pending settlement of progress billings and completed infrastructure projects of the DPWH due to the ongoing validation and audit amid corruption issues,” the
GROWTH TO SLOW
DBM said. The timing of releases for the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program (RAFPMP) under the Department of National Defense (DND) also weighed on expenditures during the eight-month period. Meanwhile, infrastructure disbursements, including the infrastructure components of subsidy and equity to state-run corporations and transfers to local government units, slumped by 5 percent year-on-year to P940.1 billion as of end-August from P989.4 billion.
ON STORMS, FUND MESS
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
WEATHERdisturbances
the flood control mess will slow down economic growth in the third quarter but will likely pick up in the last quarter of the year due to lower inflation rate, more OFW remittances and “steady” export gains despite the Washingtonimposed tariffs.
According to John Paolo Rivera, senior research fellow at state-run This
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE country’s local textile industry should integrate sustainability in its business strategy to expand its access to the European market, according to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said eco-friendly initiatives could serve as a niche for local tropical fabrics to gain an edge in the international market.
He noted that the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI), an attached agency of the DOST, places primacy on sustainability, particularly in processing fabrics using natural dyes.
“With this, and in line with the global advocacy of sustainability, this kind of materials are better appreciated when you send them to Europe,” Solidum told reporters on the sidelines of the 2025 Philippine Textile Congress on Wednesday. “We need to have a niche in our efforts. Sometimes it’s not just about being [the cheaper product]. We also need to market our products from an environmental perspective,” he added.
Solidum said the process of adding color through synthetic dyes and applying finishing for comfort often releases toxins that pose harm for public health and ecosystems.
By Ma. Ayanna Selda
THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) admitted on Wednesday that possible higher tariffs and the potential passage of the Keep Call Centers in America Act pose risks to employment in the Philippines, which remains one of the world’s largest business process outsourcing (BPO) hubs.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said the department aims to conduct a preliminary assessment of employment risks to determine the possible factors to labor market instability, as the country faces global trade uncertainties and the potential passage of the US legislation seeking to curb call center outsourcing.
“Externally, we are seeing [risks from] the possible imposition of higher tariffs. There is also the possibility that the Keep Call Centers in America bill will become law,” Laguesma said in a budget briefing, adding that the labor department is closely monitoring these external developments.
The Keep Call Centers in America Act, filed in the United States by Senators Ruben Gallego and Jim Justice, aims to curb the outsourcing of call center operations by imposing stricter rules on firms that transfer a significant portion of their services overseas. Under the proposed bill, companies that relocate at least 30 percent of their operations
abroad would be placed on a public registry. Those listed could lose access to federal grants and loans, face penalties if they continue outsourcing while holding federal contracts and be deprioritized in future government bidding. The bill also includes a consumer transparency clause that, one year after its enactment, would allow American customers to know if the call center agent assisting them is located outside the United States and to request a transfer to a US-based representative.
BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN) earlier said that the proposed legislation could trigger widespread job losses in the Philippines, which hosts one of the largest call center workforces in the world. The Center for Trade Union and Human Rights (CTUHR) also previously urged the Marcos administration to prepare protection measures for call center agents, warning that if passed, the law could lead to a “massacre of jobs” in the country’s BPO industry.
DOLE meets stakeholders ACCORDING to Laguesma, DOLE had already met with the Contact Center Association of the Philippines on Tuesday to discuss industry concerns and determine how the government could provide support. “It’s not only related to the continuous increase in wages and the
UNDER FIRE Firefighters respond to a third-alarm blaze that hit the Department of Public Works and Highways’ Bureau of Research and Standards (BRS) building along NIA Road in Barangay Pinyahan, Quezon City, on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. The DPWH said the fire, traced to
anomalies. Story on A16 NONOY LACZA
where beneficiaries acquire new or firm-specific skills during their short employment period.
“With the help of firms, firm-specific skills can be provided, making the worker employable. The idea is the program becomes a human capital investment, not just welfare. The improved worker productivity makes the program sustainable and results in better employment outcomes,” he said, adding that such an approach would require collaboration among DOLE, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Department of Trade and Industry.
De La Salle University economist Ma. Ella Oplas, meanwhile, said DOLE must also clarify who should qualify for the program.
She explained that TUPAD should prioritize workers who are part of the labor force but are temporarily unemployed—those in transition between jobs—rather than individuals outside the labor force.
She added that extending the program could help sustain the needs of beneficiaries while they search for permanent work.
“I think it should be lengthened to make sure that while they are looking for work, they get to sustain their needs. They should also rethink the amount that they are giving out...It takes time to scientifically compute it but what I can say is that it should be more than 5k,” she said in a text message.
In 2024, TUPAD assisted more than 4.45 million individuals, triple its original target of 1.35 million, with about half coming from calamity-stricken areas.
APEC finance chiefs back new roadmap for growth
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
THEAsia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) finance ministers have endorsed a new fiveyear roadmap, which aims to promote innovation, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Finance, to sustain global economic growth.
Dubbed the Incheon Plan, the new document was approved after the meeting of the said ministers in Incheon, South Korea last Tuesday. It will replace the Cebu Action Plan, which was concluded this year. The plan focused on four pillars: innovation, finance, fiscal policy, and access and opportunity for all to ensure economic resilience among APEC’s
21 member economies, including the Philippines.
“Ministers noted that while the global economy has shown resilience, uncertainty persists. They emphasized flexible and credible macroeconomic policies, effective public spending, and appropriately calibrated fiscal policy to bolster economic resilience,” APEC said in a statement.
In their joint statement, the APEC finance ministers stressed the need for close collaboration among countries to address worldwide challenges including “slow innovation.”
“We emphasize the need to enhance and voluntarily share knowledge on mechanisms that mobilize both public and private investment to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises [MSMEs] and startups,” the ministers said.
They also highlighted the importance for governments to provide incentives in developing AI ecosystems and strengthening skills and talents to achieve “innovation-driven productivity.”
Among the incentives proposed by APEC for AI development are tax incentives, promoting AI-related industries, partnering with the private sector, or supporting investment in enabling infrastructure and AI talent develop -
Govt infra spending down by 21.8% in Aug
Continued
think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies, the decline in infrastructure spending may be a “significant risk” to the country’s fiscal consolidation and growth trajectory.
“Infrastructure outlays have been a key driver of both aggregate demand and productivity improvements, so a sharp slowdown signals both an immediate demand shortfall and longer-term capacity constraints,” Rivera told BusinessMirror
“The national government itself has flagged this weakness as a factor that may cause it to miss the full-year growth target.”
Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said the government could miss its growth target of 5.5 percent to 6.5 percent this year due to slower government spending.
‘Rebound possible’
HOWEVER , Rivera said a rebound in spending is possible if implementation issues, such as project validation and quality checks, are resolved quickly, fund disbursement is accelerated and the weather cooperates.
“If not, the government must compensate via stronger fiscal stimulus in other areas, prioritize high-multipliers projects, avoid further delays and ensure efficient spending to make up the gap,” he added.
Ateneo de Manila University economist Leonardo A. Lanzona said the temporary pullback could ultimately benefit the economy if it prevents misuse of public funds.
“As long as the remaining money is spent by the government, there should be no effect on economic growth. If we did not stop the
ment.
“To enable innovation and adoption, it is important to ensure that regulatory regimes are conducive to AI development and deployment. We encourage economies to ensure that such regimes are fit-for-purpose and safeguard consumer protection,” the ministers said.
“We underscore the importance of fostering an enabling environment for AI infrastructure, including energy, digital connectivity, and data systems, which is safe, secure, reliable and accessible for all,” the added.
The APEC finance ministers also recognized digital financial innovation in driving economic growth, particularly among MSMEs.
However, they pointed out it should be done “while addressing risks and protecting consumers through a right-sized regulatory footprint.”
theft, the consequences would have been far worse,” Lanzona told BusinessMirror
The economist noted that the country all along has been missing its targets, with or without these expenditures, and has dampened its resource collections ever since.
“In the end, we are in a much better position since we can now use the remaining funds in projects that have greater social returns,” Lanzona said, noting that placing them in human capital development should boost the economy at a higher rate than what it has accomplished.
Recto said the government only sees upside over the next few months, as the major government cleanup concerning the flood control controversy will result in stronger institutions, better governance and faster growth.
“The good news is, moving forward, all of that is on the upside because we are solving the problem [on infrastructure projects].
So, moving forward, you will realize your full potential for growth,” the Finance chief said.
Meanwhile, the DBM said the implementation of infrastructure projects is expected to accelerate in the last quarter of the year, with the end of the typhoon season and the normalization of progress billings as the DPWH puts internal controls in place.
Overall government spending as of end-August reached P3.954 trillion, up by 7.2 percent from P3.690 trillion a year ago.
Personnel services expenditures rose by 7.3 percent to P966.2 billion, while maintenance and other operating expenses rose by 11.8 percent to P724.3 billion.
As of end-August, the remaining program balance amounts to P285.3 billion or 4.5 percent of this year’s P6.326-trillion budget.
over the flood control corruption controversy,” the economists noted. However, the report noted that economists are expecting faster growth in the last quarter of the year at 5.7 percent given “positive signs of recovery.”
“These include Q4 inflation rates to average at just 1.6 percent, much below BSP targets, employment recovery evident already in August, more robust OFW remittances specially in peso terms [with the peso depreciation], and steady export gains despite the Trump tariffs,” the Market Call report stated. As such, economists said full year GDP rate will likely settle at 5.5 percent, the lower end of the government’s projections.
In an interview with reporters last week, Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan told reporters that he sees “a bit of a slowdown” in the economy in the third quarter due to supply shocks such as typhoons and work suspensions.
Balisacan noted that the slowdown in GDP growth is in relation to what the economic team was expecting six months ago.
Still, he is hoping that the economy’s growth rate in the third quarter will not be slower than the 5.4 percent posted in the second quarter. Like what was stated in the Market Call, Balisacan is pinning his hopes on what he called “good developments” such as “Inflation has continued to fall, interest rates have continued to slow down.”
He explained that the effects of falling interest rates in the earlier months are “beginning to be felt now,” adding, “There are usually lag effects of interest rate changes and investment and consumption decisions.”
The growth that the country’s economic team is expecting for this year is now at 5.5 to 6.5 percent.
Balisacan said the low end of the range is “still very much achievable.”
However, the country’s socioeconomic planning chief said the setbacks caused by corruption allegations hounding flood control projects and other public infrastructure projects are temporary and will not derail the Philippines’s bid to achieve higher growth.
“We believe that the setbacks are very temporary. I like that this happened because then we can do something about these issues so that the medium-term and long-term prospects of the economy will be even stronger,” Balisacan said last week.
narrowing of profit margins, there were also other concerns mentioned…We see both external and internal factors that could become burdens or could dampen not only the expansion of the industry but also the entry of investors,” Laguesma said.
“Since it would be difficult if the review takes too long, we can probably come up with a preliminary assessment,” Laguesma said.
The preliminary risk assessment, he said, may serve as a guide to address these issues. He added that the department also maintains regular dialogue with the Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines to gather more concrete information on the industry’s outlook, including how its partner firms assess the Philippines as an investment destination.
repurposed for fake job listings, ecommerce scams, and fraudulent loan applications, according to the report. Those who reuse passwords across accounts face particular vulnerability, while small businesses receive phishing invoices disguised as legitimate supplier communications. Luu recommended a “fourpronged” defense strategy: regular software patching, offline data backups with disaster recovery procedures, continuous employee training, and round-the-clock threat monitoring through managed Security Operations Center (SOC) services.
“Cybersecurity has become a marker of leadership and trust, especially in an increasingly digital economy,” he said. “At Viettel Cyber Security, we partner with organizations to build resilience through managed SOC services. Our SOC empowers businesses to enhance operational efficiency and security management, helping them overcome workforce constraints while ensuring 24/7 protection against evolving cyber threats.”
Lawmakers welcome livestreaming of ICI hearings
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
LAWMAKERS on Wednesday said the decision of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure’s (ICI) to livestream next week’s hearings on alleged multibillionpeso flood control irregularities will restore public trust, giving citizens a front-row seat to the investigation.
Las Piñas Rep. Mark Anthony Santos, Party-list Reps. Chel Diokno of Akbayan, Terry Ridon of Bicol Saro,Elijah San Fernando of Kamangagagawa and Rep. Leila de Lima of Mamamayang Liberal called the decision a necessary step toward transparency amid growing public distrust over the flood control investigation.
“This is a positive step toward transparency. The people deserve to see the process unfold. Livestreaming the hearings will help restore public trust and dispel doubts about the fairness of the investigation,” Santos said.
On October 12, Santos called on the ICI to make its proceedings public, citing growing public
interest and the need to prevent misinformation surrounding the flood control controversy.
“If there is a livestream, there should be no speculation or false news. What’s important is for the public to see the truth for themselves,” Santos emphasized.
He also noted that the livestreaming initiative would serve as a deterrent against political interference and provide the public with a clearer picture of how the investigation is being conducted.
“Why the secrecy? We are talking about the people’s money here. The hearings should always be open to the public. Sunlight is the best disinfectant,” he said.
Marcos vows to ease entry to mining business
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
HIGHLIGHTING the crucial role of the mining sector in fueling the country’s economic development and the global green transition, President Marcos said the government will further cut red tape to attract more companies to engage in responsible mining.
He said the government is now simplifying the procedures in the processing of mining applications to attract more companies.
“There is still much to be done. And to fully attain the aspiration of this sector, we must continue to attract investors who share our values—those who respect our laws, those who respect our people, and those that respect our environment,” the Chief Executive said in his speech during the opening of the Mining Philippines
Romualdez: What links with Mahony?
LEYTE Rep. Ferdinand Martin
G. Romualdez on Wednesday firmly rejected allegations linking him to convicted fraudster Patrick Mahony, whose name has surfaced in connection with the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF).
The controversy surfaced after a report by Sarawak Report, a Malaysia-based investigative news outlet, claimed that Mahony had been advising officials behind the MIF and was often spotted in Manila social circles alongside Romualdez.
Reports have suggested that Mahony attempted to establish ties with the MIF, but these claims have been denied by the fund’s investors and officials.
In a statement, Romualdez described the reports as “false and baseless,” emphasizing that he has never engaged in any discussions or communications regarding investments or advisory roles related to the MIF.
“I join the Maharlika Investment Corporation in completely denouncing the false and baseless allegations published by certain online sources. I have never had any discussion, meeting, or communication with any individual regarding investments, advisory roles, or management decisions involving the Maharlika Wealth Fund. The reports attempting to link me to such matters are entirely unfounded, misleading, and malicious,” said Romualdez.
2025 International Conference and Exhibition in Taguig City on Wednesday.
Mining are required to comply with the country’s international environment commitments including the Paris Agreement and the Philippine Energy Plan, to be allowed to operate locally, the President said.
“We must power the future without endangering the earth that sustains us,” Marcos said.
“We will strictly enforce the laws against practices that destroy forests, that poison rivers, that endanger lives. Mining should build communities, not burden them,” he added.
He lauded the initiative of the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines to raise the environmental protection standards of its members through their voluntary compliance on the Towards Sustainable Mining Program—a global
benchmark for environmental, social, and governance standards.
“The Philippines stands proud as the first in Asia to implement this program, joining countries like Canada and Australia [in] upholding ethical practice,” Marcos said.
The passage of new laws, Marcos said, such as the Enhanced Fiscal Regime for Large-Scale Metallic Mining Act and the Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System Act, will ensure that revenues from mining activities will be transparent, benefit the affected communities, and be sustainable.
He said mining operators are now also required to align their Social Development and Management Programs with national and global development frameworks, to ensure they contribute to the country’s implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
“The wealth from our soil should translate into schools for our children, hospitals for families, and roads that link people to opportunities,” Marcos said.
“Sustainability, after all, is measured by how many lives we uplift and how faithfully we guard the blessings of our land for the generations to come,” he added.
Marcos said the government will make sure mining operators will generate decent jobs and the minerals used for the emerging green industry such as the production of electric vehicles, batteries, and new clean energy technologies.
“To be given this much potential is both a blessing and a responsibility. We are offered the chance to help power the global green transition, and to ensure that this progress uplifts every Filipino, especially those who live closest to the mines themselves,” Marcos said.
FMJr rosy on PHL-Japan relations
PRESIDENT Marcos said he is looking forward to deeper diplomatic ties between Manila and Tokyo following the election of Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, Japan’s first female leader. In a social media post, the Chief Executive congratulated Takaichi for her historic election on Tuesday.
“Her assumption demonstrates Japan’s firm democratic advocacy, and reflects the country’s commitment to progress and representation,” Marcos said.
“I look forward to working with
her in commemorating the 70th Anniversary of [Philippines-Japan] diplomatic ties in 2026, and in deepening the Strengthened Strategic Partnership for the peace and prosperity of our peoples,” he added.
Takaichi is the third Japanese Prime Minister Marcos will deal with since he assumed presidency in 2022.
The 64-year-old lawmaker, who is a professed admirer of England’s Margaret Thatcher, said she wants to become Japan’s “Iron Lady.” Among the former Japanese
Prime Ministers Marcos interacted with were Shigeru Ishiba and Fumio Kishida.
Both resigned owing to mounting pressures from their political party, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
Kishida left his post after it was revealed that LDP funds were illegally funneled in the private accounts of some lawmakers as well as the stagnating Japanese economy. In the case of Ishiba, it was due to poor performance of LDP candidates in a snap election, which he called last September.
Samuel P. Medenilla
Nartatez orders speedier probe on ambush of Bicol broadcaster
By Rex Anthony Naval
FTER Bicolano broadcast -
Aer Noel Samar on Tuesday succumbed to gunshot wounds inflicted by still unidentified assailants in Guinobatan, Albay on October 20, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., acting National Police (PNP) chief, ordered operatives of the Bicol police command, to intensify the investigation and hunt for the killers.
“The National Police extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Samar. Nakikiramay po kami sa kanilang pagdadalamhati, at makakaasa silang hindi kami titigil hanggang makamit ang hustisya [We are expressing our sympathies and we are assuring them that we will not stop until
they get justice],” Nartatez said in a statement on Wednesday. Samar is a block-timer of Aliw Broadcasting’ dwIZ.
Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) Samar, a special unit established by the PNP to hasten the investigation on the incident, the victim died around 2:20 p.m. on October 21 after his scheduled surgery at the Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center. He sustained four gunshot wounds in the chest and abdomen.
Nartatez said the Police Region Office 5 is treating the case as a top priority.
“Our investigators from the Albay Provincial Police Office are already pursuing several leads. I have instructed Brig. Gen. Nestor Babagay Jr., Bicol police commander, to solve the case as soon as possible. We are expediting the
Santos expressed hope that the livestreaming initiative would become a permanent practice for all major government investigations, particularly those involving public funds and infrastructure projects.
Similarly, Diokno hailed the ICI’s decision, stressing that the public has a right to know what happens during the hearings.
“Once the hearing is livestreamed, the public will be able to witness the course of the investigation and see how the officials involved in stealing the taxes they collected will be held accountable,” Diokno said. He also urged the Commission to disclose previous discussions and decisions to ensure full transparency.
For his part, Ridon, co-chairper -
son of the House of Repreesentatives Commitee on Infrastructure, said livestreaming would allow the public to witness disclosures, admissions, and evidence presented by high-level officials, government employees, and private contractors identified during investigations by both the House Infrastructure Committee and the Senate Blue-Ribbon committee.
Also, San Fernando called the decision a “small but necessary step” toward transparency amid growing public distrust over the flood control probe.
De Lima, for her part, said the decision to livestream its proceedings is a “long-overdue” step toward transparency and accountability.
COMP upbeat under administration’s policy direction
By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
THE Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) is confident in its place as one of the country’s strongest drivers of the economy under the current policy direction of the Marcos administration.
This was stressed by COMP
Chairman Michael Toledo, who predicted that mining could also contribute more to the country’s export earnings.
COMP represents the biggest players in the country’s mining industry.
Toledo’s confidence was strengthened by President Marcos’ presence during the kick-off ceremonies of the Mining Philippines 2025 Conference and Exhibition at the Grand Hyatt Manila on Wednesday.
Marcos was accompanied by Environment and Natural Resource Secretary Raphael Lotilla and was welcomed by Toledo at the Conference’s venue, where he also checked some of the exhibits before delivering his keynote speech.
“At a time of global uncertainty—with economic headwinds, geopolitical tensions, and the mounting effects of climate change—the Philippines needs another strong pillar of growth,” Toledo said in his welcome remark.
“Mining once accounted for over 20 percent of our export earnings, and with the right support, it can do so again— maybe even more. Our indus -
process but we also want to ensure that the evidence gathered will stand in court. Hindi po natin minamadali pero hindi rin natin tinatantanan [we will not be rushing this case but we will also not be stopping our investigation],” he added.
As part of an intensified investigation, officials from the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS), PRO-5 Command Group, and SITG Samar held a case conference at Camp Simeon Ola in Legazpi City to discuss updates on the ongoing investigation.
Investigators have begun gathering statements from witnesses, reviewing CCTV footage, and conducting forensic and ballistic examinations.
try is resilient and adaptable. And if we continue to operate responsibly, sustainably, and transparently, mining can once again become one of the strongest drivers of our economy,” he stressed.
Speaking on behalf of the mining industry’s big players under COMP, Toledo said the renewed sense of energy and momentum in the country is strongly felt.
“In just the past few years, we’ve seen real progress—the lifting of the moratorium on new projects, the removal of the open-pit ban, the ongoing efforts to simplify the permitting process and, most recently, the passage of a new fiscal regime for large-scale metallic mining…signed into law just last month by our most distinguished guest this morning,” he said.
Toledo said such are not small steps, as they signal a real turning point in mining.
“For years, we’ve said that responsible mining can be a partner in nation-building. Today, that belief is finally reflected in government policy and, we hope, in growing public understanding as we continue to earn the trust of our stakeholders,” he said. Nevertheless, Toledo said much more needs to be done, saying that the industry needs consistent rules, reliable infrastructure, and affordable energy, and better alignment between national and local
See “COMP,” A6
Philippines, Australia boost strategic defense partnership
THE strategic defense partnership between the Philippines and Australia got stronger following the meeting between two of its ranking military and diplomatic officials Tuesday.
In a statement, the Armed Forces (AFP) said Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., AFP chief of staff, met with Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown at the AFP General Headquarters in Camp General Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
“The visit highlighted the diplomatic engagement and continued strengthening of the strategic defense partnership between the AFP and Australia,” it added.
During the meeting, the AFP said Brawner expressed his appreciation for Australia’s steadfast support and enduring defense cooperation with the Philippines.
“He acknowledged Australia’s significant contributions to advancing regional peace and stability, and reaffirmed the AFP’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral military engagements,” the statement added. The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their shared commitment to promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the region through sustained military and diplomatic cooperation. Rex Anthony Naval
Thursday, October 23, 2025
Economy
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Local tobacco farmers to lose ₧980M to smugglers in 2025
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
LOCAL tobacco farmers stand to lose almost P980 million in income this year owing to smuggled cigarettes flooding the market, the Philippine Tobacco Growers Association (PTGA) said.
PTGA President Saturnino Distor noted that for 2025, around 11.8 billion sticks of illegal cigarettes would be sold
in the Philippines. This volume translates to some 9.4 million kilos of tobacco that could have come from local farms, he said. At an average farmgate price of P104.09 per kilo, Distor said the Philippine tobacco farmers would likely lose P978.44 million in income this year alone.
“This is not just about breaking the law. This is about breaking the hearts of hardworking farmers,” he said in a statement.
Distor noted that the govern -
DOE OKs higher financial benefits for power projects-hosting areas
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
COMMUNITIES that host power projects will be entitled to receive 2.5 centavos per kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity generated and sold, up from the current P0.01 per kWh, the Department of Energy (DOE) said on Tuesday.
Under Department Circular 2025-10-0023 signed by Energy
Secretary Sharon S. Garin, the agency increased the ER 1-94 financial benefit starting January 2026 from P0.01 to P0.03 per kWh of electricity generated and sold.
Of the P0.03 per kWh, 2.5 centavos per kWh will be allocated for projects tailored to each locality’s needs, such as livelihood development, environmental protection, healthcare and educational initiatives. The remaining half-centavo
allocation will be for electrification projects through the distribution utilities (DUs) will continue to fund electrification projects intended primarily to connect households requiring electricity service.
The increase ensures that communities directly contributing to the nation’s energy production are more equitably rewarded and better equipped to drive local progress.
“This marks a major turning point for our energy-hosting communities. We are shifting our approach to focus on empowering people and giving them a greater stake in our country’s energy growth. By reinvesting the benefits of power generation back into local areas, we are building shared prosperity and a stronger foundation for a sustainable future,” said Garin.
See “DOE,” A6
ment also loses around P40 billion annually because of illegal cigarette sales.
Citing industry data, he said illegal cigarettes are sold for as low as P2 per stick while legal ones are sold at PP7 per stick. Smuggling, he said, makes cigarettes cheaper and easily accessible, particularly to minors.
“Every illegal product sold in the market is a peso taken away from hardworking Filipino farmers. These illegal products enter
our markets unchecked, undermining the value of our harvest and the integrity of our work,” Distor said.
He noted that the country’s tobacco industry supports around 2.2 million Filipinos, including farmers and workers in factories, transport, trading, and small stores.
“When smuggled cigarettes take over the market, everyone in this chain suffers,” Distor said.
Distor said the problem brought
by smuggled tobacco also extends to the danger it poses to public health, since these could contain synthetic drugs that cause seizures.
Illegal cigarettes have been found with lead, insect parts, rat droppings, and even human waste, he added.
“In some places, these illegal cigarettes are easier to find than clean water. They are sold cheaply, without any safety checks. They are not just illegal—they are deadly,” Distor said. He also lamented that no tobacco smuggler has been arrested under Republic Act 12022 or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law, which passed into law last year.
“The PTGA is asking the government to act now. Farmers are not asking for special treatment. We are asking for protection, for fairness, and for a chance to keep farming and feeding our families,” Distor said.
Pag-asa Island’s beach forest major carbon sink
PBy Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
AGASA Island’s beach forest plays a vital role in capturing and storing carbon while sustaining coastal biodiversity, a new study revealed.
The study by researchers of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) was published in the Philippine Journal of Science, and presents the first scientific account of Pagasa Island’s beach forest ecosystem.
It says that the 32-hectare island stores nearly 10,000 tons of carbon dioxide or equivalent to the annual emission of about 2,000 cars, while supporting
native coastal vegetation that plays a vital role in shoreline stability and island resilience.
The study, an ERDB contribution to the country’s beach forest research, underscores the ecological and climate importance of coastal forests in remote Philippine territories, highlighting their role in carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and natural coastal defense amid growing environmental pressures in the West Philippine Sea.
The DENR-ERDB research team recorded 20 plant species from 19 families, including resilient coastal trees such as Barringtonia asiatica (botong), Calophyllum inophyllum (bitaog), and Terminalia catappa (talisai). Despite limited species diversity, the forest stood out for its exceptional carbon stor -
age capacity, thanks to its tall, large-diameter trees.
“Pag-asa’s beach forest may be small, but its ecological value is immense,” said Jose Alan Castillo, co-author and head of the Mangrove and Beach Forest Research team of ERDB said in a statement.
“These large coastal trees are nature’s living carbon vaults and serve as the first line of defense against storms and rising seas.”
Further, the study found that B. asiatica alone accounts for 85 percent of the island’s carbon stock, while C. inophyllum contributes 9 percent. These two native species, known for their resilience to coastal conditions, can serve as key anchors for future reforestation programs. Lead author Alvin Gestiada added, “Each tree lost is
not only a loss of carbon storage but also a loss of coastal protection and biodiversity.”
With Pag-Asa Island’s beach forest vegetation cover declining from 11 hectares in 2017 to less than seven hectares in 2023, the researchers stress the need to prioritize beach forest ecosystems in climate change mitigation and coastal management efforts.
“Beach forests, though often overlooked compared to mangroves and coral reefs, play an equally crucial role in stabilizing shorelines and regulating the climate,” Castillo emphasized. The researchers recommend integrating beach forest protection into the National Greening Program and other climate adaptation strategies.
DepEd-DPWH forge agreement to speed up classroom construction
LOCAL governments (LGU) will soon be given funding and authority to construct classrooms under a new Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to
be signed by the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), according to Malacañang.
President Marcos ordered the signing of the new MOA to fasttrack the construction of public school classrooms.
“The President wants the shortage of classrooms to be addressed as soon as possible for the good of the students,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in Filipino during a press briefing in Malacañang on Wednesday.
“President Marcos believes that having well-organized and sustainable classrooms will serve as the foundation for developing the wisdom, knowledge, and talent of Filipino youth, which is being promoted under the Bagong Pilipinas,” she added.
Under the new MOA, the funds and the construction of classrooms will be handled by LGUs. The implementation of the said public works will then be monitored by DPWH and DepEd. A total of 2,370 classrooms are expected to be built soon through the new MOA. Prior to the agreement, DPWH handled the funds and construction of classrooms. Castro said the new initiative is expected to help address the classroom shortage, which has reached 150,000 according to DepEd.
See “DepEd,” A6
Dole halts rebar installation at BGC fatal accident site
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE Department of Labor and Employment–National Capital Region (Dole-NCR) has ordered the suspension of vertical reinforcement bar installation at a Bonifacio Global City construction site where a worker was killed earlier this week.
DOLE-NCR Director Sarah Buena S. Mirasol confirmed on Wednesday that a work stoppage
order (WSO) was issued on October 21 and will remain in effect until lifted.
“WSO is in effect until lifted; but it does not cover all activities in the construction site. The WSO directed the contractors to stop the installation of vertical reinforcement bar ONLY,” Mirasol said in a text message. She added that the contractors
See “BGC,” A6
114,000 school children affected by Davao Oriental double quake
By Manuel T. Cayon @awimailbox
DAVAO CITY—Close to 115,000 school children in the Davao Region, mostly in the eastern side, were affected by the October 10 doublet quakes that the Pacific rim off the shore of Davao Oriental, with some afflictions needing sustained psychotherapy sessions to treat trauma, the regional Department of Education (DepEd) Region said.
The DepEd XI recorded a total of 918 classrooms that were totally damaged, following the doublet earthquakes that struck the region on October 10.
A big number of them, 41,310 would have to seek available spaces from open spaces to under the shade of trees, as their 918 classrooms were totally damaged when a magnitude 7.4 quake, the strongest in the country in decades, occurred just 48 kilometers northeast of the town of Manay in the morning, and another magnitude 6.8 occurred at 43 southeast of the same town in the evening.
The regional DepEd spokesman, Jenielito Atillo, said Davao Oriental was the hardest hit with 316 classrooms rendered totally damaged. Davao del Sur, which is three provinces further west of epicenter, sustained the next numerous number of damaged classrooms with 186, while the adjacent Davao de Oro reported with 178. Davao Occidental had 25 damaged classrooms.
Among the cities, Davao City had 100, Mati City of Davao Oriental with 76, and Tagum City of Davao del Norte had two.
The DepEd said 114,820 learners in the region were affected in various ways, from damaged classrooms and suspended classes, to panic, injury, and trauma.
The quakes caused minor injuries to 215 learners, almost half of them, or 100, in Davao Oriental. Some 3,653 learning materials, 4,133 chairs, and 1,036 pieces of digital equipment were damaged.
While damaged classrooms were many in Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro accounted for the largest share of affected learners with 45,718 Atillo said this was due to the number of schools and school children population in the province than in Davao Oriental, which posted only 16,177 affected school children.
Tagum City was third with 16,156, Panabo City with 8,518, and Davao City with 8,369.
Davao del Norte recorded 5,028 learners affected, Mati with 4,576, Davao Occidental with 4,355, Davao del Sur with 3,568, Island Garden City of Samal with 1,782, and Digos City with 573.
Atillo said the Davao Region has adapted various approaches, with Davao Oriental and Davao de Oro implementing blended classes, as with the cities of Mati, Panabo, and Davao. Davao del Sur has returned to face-to-face classes while Davao Occidental adapted face-to-face and online classes.
He said, though, that schools will only resume full face-to-face classes after these were cleared of danger by technical experts. Other agencies send health, social aid services.
The regional Department of Health sent mobile water treatment plant, health workforce augmentation, and mental health and psychosocial services to the affected communities in Davao Oriental.
The mobile water treatment facility focused on water, sanitation, and hygiene to prevent the spread of water-borne diseases. The DOH has partnered with the local government unit to optimize the use of this critical asset.
Engr. Mohammad Fahrudin Aliuden, program manager of DOH Davao Environmental and Occupational Health Unit said the machine is equipped with a gasoline-fed generator and can be utilized next to natural water sources like a river to supply potable water.
The Philippine Information Agency report citing DOH sources said machine is equipped with testers to ensure water potability.
Also, a mental health psychosocial support team, led by Dr. Clarence Nuval, the DOH Davao Mental Health Cluster Head, has set up camp in Mati City to deliver psychological first aid and to spot signs of depression, panic, and anxiety attacks.
A 19-member Philippine Emergency Medical Assistance Team was also deployed by the DOH-Southern Philippines Medical Center (DOH-SPMC) to augment the health workforce in the Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital-Manay. The team was comprised by four medical specialists, eight registered nurses, and support personnel, including a midwife, pharmacist, biomed and physical therapist.
The regional Department of Social Welfare and Development has also established Child Friendly Space facilities in the center of the Tent City in Tarragona, the adjacent southern town next to Manay”.
Protective Services Division Chief Gemma dela Cruz of DSWD XI said the facility accommodated children, especially those who experience trauma due to the disaster.
The DSWD XI said 65,429 families in the province of Davao Oriental were affected by the doublet earthquake. Some 2,528 families in Tarragona were temporarily sheltered in evacuation centers.
Lorela Ramos, policy and plans division officer In charge of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC) told last week’s government briefing that the DSWD already distributed 75,370 family food packs amounting to P44,064,316, and complemented this with 3,679 non-food items valued at over P13,000,000 and ready-to-eat meals worth more than P5,000,000.
Of the total funds deployed, approximately P46 million was allocated to Davao Oriental, where more than 73,000 family food packs were distributed alongside 3,200 non-food items, 3,600 ready-to-eat meals.
Meanwhile, Robert Joseph Montes De Claro, president and chief executive officer of the Social Security System said the agency has offered calamity loans to SSS members in Davao Oriental of as much as P20,000 at a lowered interest rate of seven percent per annum. Sec. Leo Tereso Magno, chief of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) has expressed gratitude to Education Secretary Sonny Angara, DSWD Sec. Rex Gatchalian and DPWH Sec. Vince Dizon on their joint ocular inspection of the quake affected areas on October 11.
He said funds had been secured to establish an operations center to effectively respond to disasters.
Comelec: Several contractors funded four winning senators in 2025 polls
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
AT least four senators who won in the May 2025 midterm elections received campaign donations from contractors, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) confirmed on Wednesday.
Comelec Chairman George
Erwin M. Garcia said that based on their initial investigation, 26 contractors donated to 14 national and local candidates, including six senators—four of whom were elected—two political parties, one national political party, three district representatives, and two governors.
“We cannot disclose the names yet because we are still gathering complete information from the Statements of Contributions and Expenditures...We will release everything once the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) confirms that the donors are indeed public contractors,” Garcia told
reporters.
Garcia said Comelec’s Political Finance and Affairs Department (PFAD) aims to finish its review of all 2025 SOCEs by Friday.
Once completed, the list will be forwarded to the DPWH next week to verify how many of the listed donors had ongoing government contracts when they contributed to the candidates.
In September, the Comelec also sent the DPWH a separate list of 54 campaign donors who were contractors in the 2022 elections.
Garcia said the poll body is still waiting for the agency’s official response.
“When the second batch comes in, we hope the first batch
will also be released so we can already begin the process for those 54 contractors,” he added.
The poll chief stressed that the Comelec cannot move forward with its case buildup until the DPWH confirms which donors were involved in government projects at the time.
“Some of our fellow citizens may already be impatient, but this kind of case buildup takes time...We need solid evidence because remember these are criminal cases...that require proof beyond reasonable doubt,” he explained, adding that the Comelec wants to avoid filing weak cases that may be dismissed in court.
All names to be made public GARCIA also assured that once the list is verified, the names of all involved candidates and contractors will be made public.
He said the list will be made publicly accessible, including to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, should it choose to coordinate with the Comelec in gathering additional evidence.
The poll chief emphasized that the Comelec, as an independent constitutional body, has the sole mandate
SALN transparency: Speaker Dy revives review committee, releases own SALN
HOUSE Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III has reconstituted the House of Representatives’ Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) Review and Compliance Committee, in accordance with Republic Act No. 6713.
In a memorandum order dated October 20, 2025, Deputy Speaker and South Cotabato 2nd District Rep. Ferdinand L. Hernandez was named Chairperson of the Committee. Iloilo 3rd District Rep. Lorenz R. Defensor and Marikina 2nd District Rep. Romero Federico S. Quimbo were appointed vice chairpersons.
Other members include TGP Party-list Rep. Jose J. Teves Jr., Tarlac 2nd District Rep. Maria
Cristina C. Angeles, Quezon 1st District Rep. Wilfrido Mark M. Enverga, Ilocos Norte 2nd District Rep. Angelo M. Barba, and Dinagat Islands Lone District Rep. Arlene J. Bag-ao.
The Committee’s Secretariat, composed of senior officials from the Legal Affairs, Legislative Operations, and Administrative Departments; the Office of the Secretary General; the Committee on Rules; the Records Management Service; and one representative from the Office of the Speaker, will provide technical and administrative support.
The memorandum, which takes effect immediately, states that “the Committee will continue to perform its mandate as contained in House
Memorandum Order No. 1742 [SPK] dated December 20, 2016, and in the Rules of Procedure in the Filing, Review, and Disclosure of, and Access to, the SALNs of Members, Officials, and Employees of the House of Representatives under Resolution No. 176 adopted on January 30, 2019.”
The reconstitution comes after Dy’s announcement last week that the House will review its rules on public disclosure of members’ SALNs to enhance transparency and accountability.
Also, on Wednesday, Dy released a copy of his SALN, declaring a net worth of P74.019 million and noting connections to four companies. He also listed 16 relatives who currently hold government positions. Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz
PNR to relaunch Naga-Lupi Viejo train service on Nov. 5, offering faster travel in
THE Philippine National Railways (PNR) will restore train service between Naga and Lupi Viejo in Camarines Sur starting November 5, offering commuters a faster and more affordable alternative to road transport in the Bicol region.
According to PNR General Manager Deovanni S. Miranda, the train journey will take one hour and 39 minutes, faster than the nearly two-hour trip by other vehicles on the same route.
SENATOR Win Gatchalian has vowed to secure additional funding to strengthen the government’s crackdown on different forms of human trafficking, including the online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC), amid reports of rising cases here and abroad. During the hearing on the proposed
“We continue to rehabilitate PNR infrastructure to deliver affordable, safe, and reliable public transportation to more commuters,” Miranda said. The service will operate three trips daily in each direction.
Trains departing Naga are scheduled for 4:29 a.m., 9:49 a.m., and 3:14 p.m., while Lupi Viejo departures will run at 6:23 a.m., 11:43 a.m., and 5:08 p.m.
Passengers will be able to board and alight at stations in Lupi Viejo, Sipocot, Libmanan,
2026 budget of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and its attached agencies, Gatchalian noted that
Bicol region
Pamplona, and Naga, as well as at 11 flag stops including Lupi Nuevo/Tapi, Malaguico, Azucena, Awayan, Mantalisay, Camambugan, Rongos, Malansad, Mambulo, Borabod, and Sampaloc. Regular fares will range from P15 to P75 for the Naga-Lupi Viejo route. Students, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and senior citizens with valid identification will receive discounted rates starting at P12 up to P60. Lorenz S. Marasigan
to investigate and prosecute violations of the Omnibus Election Code.
“The Comelec does not need to consult with any other body to perform its mandate,” Garcia said.
After reviewing contractors who made donations, the PFAD will next examine whether mining firms and companies with government franchises also contributed to candidates.
Under Section 95 of the Omnibus Election Code, contractors and suppliers of government projects are prohibited from donating— directly or indirectly—to any partisan political activity.
The same ban applies to financial institutions (except for legitimate loans), utilities, companies with government franchises or contracts, natural resource extractors, recipients of large government loans, publicly funded schools, civil service officials, members of the armed forces, and all foreigners and foreign corporations.
Both donors and recipients found guilty of violating the law face imprisonment of one to six years.
Eco-Friendly. . .
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He added that even washing clothes contributes to this, with each load of laundry releasing about 700,000 microfibers into the water supply.
“Small actions, multiplied across millions, have an enormous impact on the planet,” Solidum said.
“That’s why when we talk about textiles today, we must look beyond fabrics and garments. Textiles are deeply intertwined with our social, economic, and environmental systems.”
He then championed the circular economy, one of the DOST’s big-ticket programs.
“Circular economy reminds us that what we take from nature must be returned responsibly, and that every stage of production should contribute to regeneration, not waste,” Solidum said.
He called on the industry to pursue a transformative, science-driven action, such as viewing existing laws focused on safeguarding the environment through a circular lens.
“Let us...empower communities to shape their own circular textile pathways,” Solidum said.
Earlier, the European Commission postponed the implementation of EU’s antideforestation law for a second time due to bureaucratic delays.
The EU Deforestation Regulation would be implemented instead in December 2026, two years beyond the original 2024 target.
Under this law, exporting countries should prove that their products are “deforestation-free and legally produced.”
Thursday, October 23, 2025
policies, which he confidently said is recognized by the Marcos administration.
According to Toledo, getting it right can unlock billions in investments, create thousands of jobs, and uplift communities that need it most.
He expressed gratitude to Marcos for what he described as consistent support to the industry, citing the Philippines’ remarkable rise in the Fraser Institute’s 2024 Annual Survey of Mining Companies, which now ranked 16th in Investment Attractiveness from 72nd in 2023, and 25th in Policy Perception from 79th spot.
These improvements in ranking, he said, show how steady reforms are paying off. It sends a clear message: the Philippines is open for responsible, quality investment.
“As President Marcos has said, mining is not a problem to avoid but an opportunity to embrace: to advance clean energy, drive sustainable development, and promote inclusive growth, all while protecting the environment,” he said.
Hosting a 100 megawatt (MW)
conventional power plant may facilitate an ER 1-94 benefits of approximately P21 million per year, while hosting a 100-MW solar power plant may generate benefits approximately P5.5 million per year, assuming these plants operate at their maximum capacity factor.
The DOE will strictly enforce funds’ transparency and
The Palace official made the announcement after it was revealed in a Senate hearing on Monday that of the 1,700 classrooms that were expected to be constructed this year, only 22 were completed and 900 others were still pending.
Citing the latest government data, Castro said 200 classrooms are expected to be completed by December. She said another 822 classrooms are expected to be finished by early 2026 and another 2,000 by the third quarter next year.
Samuel P. Medenilla
accountability through regular audits by both the DOE and the Commission on Audit (COA). Beyond financial support, the new circular also enables non-fiscal benefits, including local employment preferences, skills development programs, and procurement of locally produced supplies, further stimulating community-based growth.
As of December 2024, the ER 1-94 Program had benefitted 683 local governments (LGUs), comprising 321 barangays, 286 cities towns, and 76 provinces. With the
BGC. . .
involved have been summoned to a mandatory conference at the Muntaparlas (Muntinlupa, Taguig, Parañaque, Las Piñas) field office on Thursday, October 23.
Initial police findings indicate that the incident occurred around 11:10 a.m. on Monday while workers were installing rebars at the Basement 2 level of the construction site.
The elevator core wall collapsed, and rubble fell on four workers.
tripled allocation, the DOE projects a threefold increase in community investments—translating into improved facilities, more livelihood opportunities, and stronger local economies.
The policy, likewise, considered option to use the funds to lower electricity rates of the host communities, either, voluntary through a resolution by the LGUs, or mandatory when the host LGUs and the DUs are unable to utilize the funds for two years.
The strengthened ER 1-94 framework promotes community-driven
All four were rushed to St. Luke’s Medical Center in BGC, but one of them, identified as Arvin Loria, was declared dead on arrival at 12:11 p.m. Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma earlier said that the department will intensify its inspections of construction sites following the fatal accident.
“Dole will be persistent in our efforts to ramp up inspection of firms, with special focus on construction works being undertaken, so that accidents like this will be abated,” Laguesma said.
“It is indeed unfortunate and it
planning by empowering host LGUs and indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples (ICCs/ IPs) to identify and approve priority projects through their respective local council resolutions.
To ensure proper management and transparency, the financial allocations will be administered through dedicated trust accounts, namely the Development and Livelihood Fund (DLF), the Reforestation, Watershed Management, Health, and/or Environment Enhancement Fund (RWMHEEF), and the Electrification Fund.
saddens me that accident like this causing death and injuries continues to occur despite repeated reminders to employers, particularly in the construction industry, to strictly observe and comply with OSH rules and regulations,” he added.
Laguesma also assured that the families of those affected will receive all assistance due to them.
“Dole will ensure that benefits due to the family of Mr. Loria will be given, as Well as to the other injured workers. We will also make available Dole programs to the bereaved family and the injured workers,” he said.
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Editor: Angel R. Calso
Russia launches massive attack on Ukraine amid escalating tensions and energy crisis
By Susie Blann The Associated Press
KYIV, Ukraine—Russia launched a wide drone and missile attack across Ukraine on Wednesday, killing at least six people, Ukrainian officials said, a day after US President Donald Trump put his planned meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on hold, saying he didn’t want it to be a “waste of time.”
Ukraine’s energy minister said a “massive combined overnight attack” on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure was still underway early Wednesday—the latest in Russia’s effort to cripple the country’s energy system before winter. At least 18 people were injured in the attack, said Kyiv administration head Tymur Tkachenko
The attack caused emergency power blackouts across the country, Ukraine’s Energy Ministry said. Repairs were underway where possible and electricity would be restored “as soon as possible,” it said.
“Another night that proves Russia does not feel enough pressure for prolonging the war,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a statement.
He said the strike caused damages in the cities of Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia, as well as Odesa, Chernihiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovohrad, Poltava, Vinnytsia, Zaporizhzhia, and the wider regions of Kyiv, Cherkasy, and Sumy.
Pressuring Russia
ZELENSKYY urged the European Union, the United States and the Group of Seven industrialized nations, or G7, to take steps to sanction Russia.
“It is very important that the world does not remain silent now and that there is a united response to Russia’s treacherous strikes,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Army General Staff said the country’s forces struck a chemical plant in Russia’s Bryansk region late on Tuesday night using air-to-surface Storm Shadow missiles. The plant is an important part of the Russian military and industrial complex producing gun powder, explosives, missile fuel and ammunition.
Relentless attacks
IN the Kyiv region, rescuers discovered the bodies of three people—including two children—after a strike set a private house ablaze in the village of Pohreby, regional governor Mykola Kalashnyk said. According to him, the victims were a woman and her two daughters—an infant of 6 months and a 12-year-old girl.
“Their bodies were found at the site of the fire,” the governor said. “This is a tragedy for the entire community, for the Kyiv region, and for the country.”
Two more people were found dead in the Dnipro district of the Ukrainian capital, where emergency services rescued 10 people after a fire caused by drone debris hit the sixth floor of a 16-story residential building, local authorities said.
The attack also blew out windows of a medical facility and debris was found at another residential building, Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko reported on his Telegram channel.
In the Darnytskyi district of the capital, emergency services were responding after drone debris hit a 17-story residential building causing a fire on five floors. Fifteen people had to be rescued, including two children.
In the Desnianskyi district, 20 people were rescued after the façade of a 10-story building was damaged and a gas pipe caught fire. Debris from a drone also fell on a dormitory building and rescue workers were headed to the scene, Klitschko said.
The large-scale overnight aerial attack also targeted the city of Zaporizhzhia and the port city of Izmail in the southern Odesa region.
An “energy object” in Odesa region suffered “extensive damages” according to DTEK, Ukraine’s biggest private energy operator. The company also said Kyiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions experience emergency blackouts. Following the blackouts, Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk said that “as soon as security conditions allow, energy workers will begin assessing the consequences of the attack and carrying out repair work.”
What’s ahead ON Wednesday, Trump is expected to hold talks at the White House with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. The military alliance has been coordinating deliveries of weapons to Ukraine, many of them purchased from the United States by Canada and European countries.
SMOKE billows in the background at dusk in Kyiv, Ukraine, Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025. AP/JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON
A8 Thursday, October 23, 2025
Thailand’s deputy finance minister quits over scam center allegations
By Patpicha Tanakasempipat & Randy Thanthong-Knight
ONE of Thailand’s most highprofile politicians allegedly linked to transnational scam operations has said he
will step down.
In a briefing Wednesday in Bangkok, Vorapak Tanyawong, the country’s deputy finance minister, denied allegations that he and his wife are linked to Southeast Asian scam networks. He said he plans to file a defamation complaint against people
making those accusations.
Vorapak’s resignation came a day after Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul asked him for a written response to allegations that he’s linked to scam networks around the region. Vorapak was earlier named by Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas to lead a task force to follow the money trail left by such centers.
In a Facebook post just hours before Wednesday’s briefing, Vorapak called the allegations “false and politically motivated” and “part of an organized smear campaign.” The former Krung Thai Bank Pcl executive said that
his focus on policy work has been disrupted by the need to respond to these allegations.
“It’s unfortunate that some of those involved are people I once respected,” he said in the post. “But political bias seems to have clouded their judgment. I’ve tried to respond with compassion, but perhaps I’ll need to recite the Buddha’s verse for overcoming evil.” Vorapak said he floated the idea of him resigning with Anutin before the briefing and that he wasn’t pressured into quitting. With assistance from Pathom Sangwongwanich/ Bloomberg
Peru’s president declares state of emergency in capital amid surge in violence and protests
LIMA, Peru—Peru’s new president declared a state of emergency in the capital Tuesday in the government’s latest attempt to stem a surge in violence that has stirred protests and contributed to the recent downfall of his predecessor.
Peru has seen an increase of killings, violent extortion and attacks on public places in recent years. Between January and September, police reported 1,690 homicides, compared to 1,502 during the same period of 2024.
Former President Dina Bolu -
arte was removed from office by Peru’s Congress on Oct. 10, after an impeachment process in which lawmakers said that she had been unable to tackle the crime wave. She was immediately replaced by José Jerí, the legislative body’s leader.
In a televised message, Jerí said the emergency in Lima will last 30 days, and added that the government is considering steps including deploying soldiers to help police and restricting some rights, such as the freedom of assembly and movement. His government published later a decree formally declaring the emergency.
“Wars are won with actions, not words,” the president said in the
address. He said that he’s planning to a new approach to fighting crime that he described as going “from defense to offense.”
Peru has seen major protests against violence and corruption led by Gen Z activists.
Protesters rallied in Lima on Thursday to demand the resignation of the new president. The demonstration turned violent, leaving one civilian dead and around 100 people injured, including police officers and some journalists.
Jerí said that same day that he wouldn’t resign.
Former President Boluarte declared a 30-day state of emergency in March, but it did little to reduce crime. AP
Russia. . .
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The decision to postpone the meeting in Budapest, Hungary— which Trump had announced last week—followed a call Monday between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The Russian diplomat made clear in pub -
lic remarks Tuesday that Moscow opposes an immediate ceasefire. Ukraine, meanwhile, is seeking to purchase 25 Patriot air defense systems from US firms using frozen Russian assets and assistance from partners. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said acquiring them would take time because of long production time but added that he has spoken to Trump about help procuring them more quickly, potentially from European partners. Earlier this month, Russia carried out its largest attack of the war on natural gas facilities operated by Ukraine’s state-owned Naftogaz Group, launching 381 drones and 35 missiles, according to Ukraine’s air force. Officials said the strikes were part of an effort to cripple the country’s power grid ahead of winter.
PERU’S former president of the Congress Jose Jeri, sings the national anthem after being sworn-in as the interim president in Lima, Peru, Friday, Oct. 10, 2025. AP/JOHN REYES
Israel identifies 2 more hostages’ bodies as Vance meets Netanyahu
By Melanie Lidman The Associated Press
TEL AVIV, Israel—Israel has completed the identification of the bodies of two more hostages, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Wednesday, as US Vice President JD Vance held high-level meetings in Israel to nudge forward Gaza’s fragile ceasefire.
Authorities identified the deceased hostages as Arie Zalmanovich and Tamir Adar. Their bodies were transported in coffins by the Red Cross and handed over to the Israeli military in the Gaza Strip.
The two were killed in Kibbutz Nir Oz during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack by Hamas militants, which triggered the two-year war.
Since the ceasefire began on Oct. 10, the remains of 15 hostages have been returned to Israel. Another 13 still need to be recovered in Gaza and handed over, a key element to the ceasefire agreement.
Meanwhile, the burial of 54 Palestinians is set for Wednesday at a cemetery in Deir al Balah, Gaza.
The bodies were displayed outside Nasser hospital in Khan Younis ahead of burial.
Vance is meeting Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog on Wednesday. He is accompanied by US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law.
On Tuesday, Vance, Witkoff and Kushner said the ceasefire had exceeded expectations but acknowledged flareups of violence in recent days.
Uncertainty remains over the peace plan, including disarming Hamas, the deployment of an international security force in Gaza and who will govern the territory.
Vance said Tuesday officials are brainstorming on the composition of the security force, mentioning Turkey and Indonesia as countries expected to contribute troops.
Britain is also sending a small contingent of military officers to Israel to assist in monitoring the ceasefire.
Funeral prayers for Palestinians DOZENS of people, some carrying Palestinian flags, gathered outside the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis for funeral prayers over the bodies of 54 Palestinians clad in white shrouds. The unidentified bodies were
among 165 that Israel sent back to Gaza last week. They will be transported to Gaza’s central city of Deir al-Balah for burial.
A senior health official in Gaza said some bodies bore “evidence of torture” and called for an investigation.
Israel has not provided identification for the bodies or explained their origins. They could include
Palestinians who died during the Oct. 7 attacks, detainees who died in custody or bodies that were taken from Gaza by Israeli troops during the war.
So far, authorities in Gaza have identified 52 of the returned bodies, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.
“Israel,” A10
UNITED STATES Vice President JD Vance, left, meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Prime Minister’s Office in Jerusalem, Israel on Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025. NATHAN HOWARD/THE NEW
TIMES
A10 Thursday, October 23, 2025
Global banks compete for Taiwan’s $8 trillion wealth market amid deregulation, tech boom
GBy Betty Hou, Cathy Chan & Denise Wee
LOBAL banks are racing to secure a piece of Taiwan’s rapidly growing $8 trillion wealth market as the government eases money-management regulations to capitalize on booming personal fortunes.
Lenders including UBS Group AG, HSBC Holdings Plc and BNP Paribas SA are hiring aggressively to beef up their presence in a newly created wealth management zone launched in July in Taiwan’s gritty port city of Kaohsiung.
UBS plans to grow its clientfacing staff in Taiwan by between 10% and 15% next year and expand mid- and back-office operations in Kaohsiung to manage fund flows. Standard Chartered Plc has tripled its Taiwan-based wealth specialists over the past three years and will hire more in the coming months. HSBC aims to further scale its local wealth
team following a recent expansion to support its pilot operations in Kaohsiung and BNP Paribas wants to add about 15 relationship managers across the island over the next two years.
The new zone’s more permissive rules are designed to help banks tap into Taiwan’s fast-growing pool of homegrown affluence, driven by a global surge in demand for semiconductors that underpin the rise of artificial intelligence. The goal is to overcome several disadvantages Taiwan has as a place to store wealth, such as higher taxes, strict foreign-exchange controls and the ever-lingering threat of a
Chinese invasion.
Combined, those push factors have driven an estimated 40% of Taiwan’s personal wealth offshore to financial hubs such as Hong Kong and Singapore.
“There is a significant amount of wealth creation as local tech companies take advantage of the artificial intelligence uptrend, as well as Taiwanese who have invested in the stock market over the past couple of years,” said Henry Su, the Taiwan head of UBS. “The Kaohsiung zone is the first step regulators are taking and I think there’s going to be continuing relaxation coming down the pipeline.”
The Swiss bank’s Taiwan unit has doubled its assets under management in the past two years.
“Many global banks are coming after this market hard right now and it signifies one thing: the wealth market in Taiwan is something of a prize that all major players would like to strive for.” Su said.
Taiwan’s average wealth has risen 35% in recent years, the third-fastest globally, according to a UBS report. It now has more millionaires than Hong Kong and nearly twice as many as Singapore.
Wealth revenue from Taiwan
at a US-based investment bank is expected to climb another 30%, outpacing the division’s broader Asia growth of 20%, according to a senior executive, who asked not to be identified because the information is confidential. The bank plans to add 10 Taiwan-focused relationship managers in the next twelve months, and double its presence in three years to 50, the person said.
The domestic wealth boom is closely linked to its tech sector, as high demand for chips and electronic components produced by Taiwanese firms makes the island one of the world’s top-performing economies despite the ongoing wrangling between the US and China over trade.
“Taiwan’s AI ecosystem is powering a new wave of wealth creation, benefiting both tech veterans as well as a younger generation of tech entrepreneurs and investors,” said Vincent Chui, head of Asia Pacific wealth management at Morgan Stanley. “Global banks with strong Taiwan corporate relationships are best positioned to capture this wealth creation boom.”
The optimism has eclipsed geopolitical concerns in recent conversations with ultra-high-net-worth clients, according to a senior bank executive. None flagged tensions between China and Taiwan as a key risk in the past 12 months, and there’s little sense of urgency around potential conflict, the executive said.
Despite surging personal fortunes, turning a manufacturingfocused economy into a wealth center isn’t easy, as many countries across Asia have discovered. China’s plans to make Shanghai into an international financial hub
were derailed by Covid-19 and the country’s adherence to its strict capital controls. Malaysia’s $100 billion ‘Forest City’ project has become a largely deserted technoutopian refuge for crypto and tech entrepreneurs.
And despite a stock market revival in Japan, the nation’s bid to become a leading asset management center remains clouded by a fragmented financial sector and a population still deeply committed to saving over investing.
Sandbox city
TAIWAN’S wealth project is housed in a designated nine square-kilometer sandbox zone in Kaohsiung which will pilot private-banking offerings for high-net-worth clients.
The more relaxed regulations grant wealthy individuals products and services not available in the rest of Taiwan, such as borrowing against their investment portfolios — or Lombard Lending. Investors also have access to more cash through higher leverage, with loan-to-value ratios reaching up to 80%, higher than elsewhere in Taiwan.
Banks in the sandbox area accept a more diverse universe of assets as collateral, including insurance policies and mutual funds denominated in foreign currencies, as well as certain offshore assets. In other parts of Taiwan, only Taiwan dollar-denominated assets are permitted as collateral.
The government’s unprecedented wave of deregulation has banks “rolling up their sleeves and eager to jump in,” said Robert Fuh, private banking chief at Cathay United Bank Co., which has invested tens of millions of Taiwan dollars into talent training programs this
year and plans to nearly double that investment in 2026. Regulators will assess in a year whether the zone’s exclusive privileges should be extended to other cities.
Defying gravity
STILL , the government’s goal of keeping more wealth at home faces obstacles that aren’t likely to disappear any time soon.
For one, Taiwan has operated under the threat of a Chinese invasion for decades and an increasingly assertive Beijing raises the possibility of conflict between the two neighbors, placing a risk premium on local investments for some investors.
Higher taxes than regional financial hubs like Hong Kong and Singapore and tighter controls on foreign exchange also present incentives for wealthy individuals to keep their assets offshore. Taiwan hasn’t proposed major changes in the local tax regime to support the wealth hub policy.
Despite the disadvantages, John Lin, a 48-year-old owner of a Kaohsiung-based cosmetics manufacturer and a wealth client at several banks, is exploring new financial services in the city’s wealth zone following his company’s initial public offering in July. He says the ease of access to money managed in Taiwan outweighs the higher taxes and geopolitical risks.
“I run a cash flow-heavy business so I need to be able to access liquidity flexibly and keeping capital onshore makes this much easier,” he said. “I pay my employees’ salaries in Taiwan dollars and run my factories in Taiwan dollars. Keeping my assets in Taiwan is much more convenient.”
Bloomberg News
Trump delays Putin meeting as Russia rejects ceasefire; peace deal in limbo
By Matthew Lee & Chris Megerian The Associated Press
ASHINGTON—Presi -
Wdent Donald Trump said Tuesday his plan for a swift meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin was on hold because he didn’t want it to be a “waste of time.” It was the latest twist in Trump’s stop-and-go effort to resolve the war in Ukraine. The decision to hold off on the meeting in Budapest, Hungary,
Charity says an armed group took over its Gaza facility
A TOP Palestinian non-governmental organization that offers mental health services to people in Gaza said Wednesday that there had been an “armed raid and brutal takeover” of one its facilities in the territory last week.
The Gaza Community Mental Health Program said an “armed group” it didn’t identify stormed the facility in Gaza City on Oct. 13, seized the building, expelled guards by force and put up their own families there.
“This blatant attack and serious crime represent a flagrant violation of all laws and norms,” the group said. It was unclear why the organi -
which Trump had announced last week, was made following a call Monday between Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
“I don’t want to have a wasted meeting,” Trump said. “I don’t want to have a waste of time—so we’ll see what happens.” Lavrov made clear in public comments Tuesday that Russia is opposed to an immediate ceasefire. Trump, meanwhile, has been shifting his stance all year on key issues in the war, including
zation waited more than a week to report the takeover, but it said that although it had made immediate requests for authorities to intervene, there had been no “concrete action” to return the facility “despite repeated promises to evacuate.”
They urged Palestinian authorities to act immediately and called on countries sponsoring the ceasefire to “intervene decisively.”
Israelis to bid farewell to a Thai hostage killed on Oct. 7, 2023
Israelis were set on Wednesday to bid farewell to a Thai farm worker whose body will be repatriated to his native Thailand later in the day.
Sonthaya Oakkharasri was killed during the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, and his body was held in Gaza until it was returned last weekend.
whether a ceasefire should come before longer-term peace talks, and whether Ukraine could win back land seized by Russia during almost four years of fighting.
Trump’s hesitancy in meeting Putin will likely come as a relief to European leaders, who have accused Putin of stalling for time with diplomacy while trying to gain ground on the battlefield. The leaders—including the British prime minister, French
See “Trump,” A12
A statement by the Families’ Headquarters for the Return of the Abductees said a gathering will be held at Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv to pay last respects to Oakkharasri, calling him a “devoted father and farmer who dreamed of establishing his own farm.” In the 2023 attack on Israel that started the war, Hamas-led militants killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducted 251 people as hostages. The Israel-Hamas war has killed more than 68,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its count. The ministry maintains detailed casualty records that are seen as generally reliable by UN agencies and independent experts. Israel has disputed them without providing its own toll.
UK hosts Western Balkan summit focused on migration, security, economic growth
By Jill Lawless The Associated Press
LONDON—Leaders of six Western Balkan nations are due to meet British and European officials in London on Wednesday for talks on migration, security and economic growth in a volatile region where Russia seeks to wield influence.
Delegations from Albania, Bosnia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia are attend -
ing a summit held as part of the Berlin Process, launched in 2014 to keep the southeastern Euro -
pean countries working toward European Union membership.
The only Western Balkan nation to join the EU is Croatia, which became a member in 2013. Progress for the others has stalled, with countries at various stages of the journey, and in recent years tensions have flared between Serbia and Kosovo, a former Serbian province whose independence is not recognized by Belgrade.
The EU’s openness to accept new members has grown since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. There are concerns the war in Ukraine and Russia’s deepening confrontation with the West could spill over into
a region still scarred by its own conflicts.
The UK is hosting the annual summit despite leaving the EU in 2020. It is also being attended by representatives of several European countries and the EU.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s center-left government is hoping to make progress on tackling the drug trade, bolstering Western Balkan nations’ defenses against interference from Moscow and—a particular British priority—curbing unauthorized migration.
Gangs have smuggled hundreds of thousands of people to the EU via the Western Balkans in recent years, and Britain says a quarter of migrants reaching
the UK in small boats across the English Channel have traveled through the region.
Britain is hoping to build on a joint task force with Albania that has helped—through a returns agreement and local projects in areas the migrants come from— reduce the number of Albanian migrants trying to reach the UK, from 12,000 in 2022 to some 600 in 2024.
Britain also has sent law enforcement officers to the region to work with the EU border agency, Frontex, and it is seeking countries willing to host “return hubs” where rejected asylum-seekers could be held until they can be deported.
The leaders of Albania and Montenegro both expressed reluctance to have return hubs on their soil.
“When it comes to the hubs, or whatever they are called, I’ve said it, and I repeat—never in Albania,” Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama said Tuesday at the Chatham House think tank.
Montenegro’s Prime Minister Milojko Spajic said his country is “not part of the migrant routes through the Balkans” because its railway infrastructure isn’t developed enough. He said might be willing to accept a migrant returns hub if Britain agreed to “invest 10 billion euros into building railways.”
The Louvre reopens 3 days after thieves took French crown jewels in daylight heist
PBy Thomas Adamson The Associated Press
earlier at the famed museum. The smash-and-grab that unfolded just 250 meters (270 yards) from the Mona Lisa and has prompted a national reckoning, with some officials comparing the shock to the 2019 burning of NotreDame cathedral. Hundreds queued outside as barriers
came down, a visible coda to three days of forensic work, inspections and staff briefings. Tuesday’s closure was routine; the museum is normally shut that day.
However, the scene of the heist— the jewel-lined Apollo Room—stayed shuttered.
Authorities say the gang spent less
than four minutes inside the Louvre. Using a freight lift wheeled to the Seine-facing façade, the thieves forced a window, smashed two display cases and fled on motorbikes into central Paris.
Alarms drew Louvre agents to the gallery, forcing the intruders to bolt—but the theft was already done.
“We have failed,” Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin said, noting criminals were easily “able to place a freight lift on a public way”—a breach that projects “a very negative image of France.”
Eight objects were taken: a sapphire diadem, necklace and single earring from a set linked to 19th-century queens Marie-Amélie and Hortense; an emerald necklace and earrings tied to Empress Marie-Louise, Napoleon Bonaparte’s second wife; a reliquary brooch; Empress Eugénie’s diamond diadem; and her large corsage-
president and German chancellor—said they opposed any push to make Ukraine surrender land captured by Russian forces in return for peace, as Trump most recently has suggested.
They also plan to push forward with plans to use billions of dollars in frozen Russian assets to help fund Ukraine’s war efforts, despite some misgivings about the legality and consequences of such a step.
The US and Russian presidents last met in Alaska in August, but the encounter did not advance Trump’s stalled attempts to end a war that began with Russia’s fullscale invasion in February 2022.
The Kremlin didn’t seem to be in a rush to get Trump and Putin together again either. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday that “preparation is needed, serious preparation” before a meeting. Trump suggested that decisions about the meeting would be made in the coming days.
What Ukraine wants from the US UKRAINIAN President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been trying to strengthen Ukraine’s position by seeking long-range Tomahawk missiles from the US, although Trump has waffled on whether he would provide them.
“We need to end this war, and only pressure will lead to peace,” Zelenskyy said Tuesday in a Telegram post.
He noted that Putin returned to diplomacy and called Trump last week when it looked like Tomahawk missiles were a possibility. But “as soon as the pressure eased a little, the Russians began to try
bow brooch—an imperial ensemble of rare craftsmanship.
One piece—the emerald-set imperial crown of Empress Eugénie, with more than 1,300 diamonds—was later found outside the museum, damaged but recoverable.
The haul is valued at about €88 million ($102 million)—a “spectacular” figure that fails to capture the works’ historical weight, according to Prosecutor Laure Beccuau.
She warned the thieves would be unlikely to realize anything close to that figure if they pry out the gems from their settings or melt the metals. Many curators fear exactly that: that an object’s centuries of meaning could be pulverized into anonymous gems for the black market.
On Tuesday, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said the in-and-out took only minutes; no arrests have been announced and the jewels remain missing.
to drop diplomacy, postpone the dialogue,” Zelenskyy said.
On Wednesday, Trump is expected to hold talks in the White House with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The military alliance has been coordinating deliveries of weapons to Ukraine, many of them purchased from the US by Canada and European countries.
A meeting of the Coalition of the Willing—a group of 35 countries who support Ukraine—is due to take place in London on Friday.
How Trump’s stance on the war has shifted
TRUMP initially focused on pressuring Ukraine to make concessions, but then grew frustrated with Putin’s intransigence. Trump often complains that he thought his good relationship with his Russian counterpart would have made it easier to end the war.
Last month, Trump reversed his long-held position that Ukraine would have to give up land and suggested it could win back all the territory it has lost to Russia. But after a phone call with Putin last week and a subsequent meeting with Zelenskyy on Friday, Trump shifted his position again and called on Kyiv and Moscow to “stop where they are” and end the war.
On Sunday, Trump said the industrial Donbas region of eastern Ukraine should be “cut up,” leaving most of it in Russian hands.
Trump said Monday that while he thinks it is possible that Ukraine can ultimately defeat Russia, he’s now doubtful it will happen.
Ukrainian and European leaders trying to keep Trump on their side WE strongly support President
The investigation is widening. Beccuau said four people have been identified as being at the scene of the heist, with expert analyses underway and about 100 investigators mapping the crew and any accomplices.
The heist has sharpened scrutiny of the Louvre’s surveillance—and landed its president-director, Laurence des Cars, on Wednesday before the Senate’s culture committee—though top officials have refused to remove her.
The events also collide with a broader museum-security overhaul announced in January by President Emmanuel Macron’s government, including a new command post and camera network the culture ministry says are now being rolled out. The heist has serious raised questions about how far those upgrades had progressed.
Trump’s position that the fighting should stop immediately, and that the current line of contact should be the starting point of negotiations,” the leaders’ statement said. “We can all see that Putin continues to choose violence and destruction.” Lavrov made clear Tuesday that Russia opposes a ceasefire, Russian state news agencies reported. He told journalists in Moscow that it would go against what the two presidents agreed upon in Alaska. Trump had hoped to get Russia to stop the fighting, but he was rebuffed by Putin, who has pushed for a comprehensive settlement to end the war.
Russia occupies about one fifth of Ukraine, but carving up their country in return for peace is unacceptable to Kyiv officials.
Also, a conflict frozen on the current front line could fester, with occupied areas of Ukraine offering Moscow a springboard for new attacks in the future, Ukrainian and European officials fear.
The statement by the leaders of Ukraine, the UK, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, Denmark and EU officials came early in what Zelenskyy said Monday would be a week that is “very active in diplomacy.”
More international economic sanctions on Russia are likely to be discussed at an EU summit in Brussels on Thursday.
“We must ramp up the pressure on Russia’s economy and its defense industry, until Putin is ready to make peace,” Tuesday’s statement said.
contributed reporting.
Rice production goal still within reach—DA
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE country has lost nearly 480,000 metric tons (MT) of palay supply so far this year after weather-related shocks, particularly typhoons, ravaged plantations.
Since January, the local rice sector has incurred 479,813 MT of palay losses as of October 22, based on the latest damage reports of the Department of Agriculture (DA).
came from typhoons.
The latest figures, however, were yet to breach the average annual palay output losses ranging from 500,000 MT to 600,000 MT, according to agriculture officials.
“If you look at these losses incurred by the rice industry, it’s a mix of both partially and totally damaged crops,” DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa told the BusinessMirror.
“The partially damaged areas have a chance of recovery, meaning some of them can be harvested while others cannot.”
Authority (PSA) reported that palay harvest may have grown by 18.1 percent to 3.93 MMT in the July to September period from 3.33 MMT in 2024. The third quarter is usually considered the lean season for rice.
The southwest monsoon, along with tropical cyclones Mirasol, Nando, and Opong, accounted for the majority of the production losses in the rice industry, pegged at 354,831 MT, according to the agency. The DA’s latest bulletin on tropical cyclones Paolo and Ramil, which recently wreaked havoc on the country, destroyed 9,557 MT and 289 MT of rice, respectively.
Prior to this, the DA had already registered 115,136 MT in palay losses due to weatherrelated shocks, most of which
Top cacao producers bag regional quality awards
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 4-A has concluded the Calabarzon Cacao Quality Award (CCQA) 2025, a regional initiative recognizing excellence in fermented cacao bean production, through a two-part event held in Quezon Province this October.
DTI said the initiative was carried out in partnership with the University of the Philippines Los Baños, the Department of AgricultureRegional Field Office 4-A, the Calabarzon Cacao Industry Federation Inc., the Calabarzon Cacao Industry Council, and the Offices of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAs) of Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, and Rizal.
The activity began with the Regional Technical Evaluation and Judging on October 7–8, 2025, at Flor and Daisy’s Agricultural Farm in Sariaya, Quezon, followed by the Awarding Ceremony on October 22, 2025, at the Quezon Convention Center in Lucena City as one of the highlights of the CALABARZON Cacao Congress 2025.
The two-day judging activity brought together cacao producers from across the region, with a total of 17 entries submitted from Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, and Quezon for a rigorous assessment based on internationally recognized grading protocols.
All entries underwent coding and blind judging to ensure impartiality, with evaluations focusing on moisture content, fermentation level, bean defects, mold presence, and other quality parameters.
The process was conducted under the supervision of Prof. Romel M. Felismino, Lead Technical Consultant from the UPLB Institute of Food Science and Technology. The judging activity also provided participants with valuable technical feedback to help improve their postharvest practices and prepare them for the Philippine Cacao Quality Award (PCQA) 2026.
The culmination of the process took place during the Awarding Ceremony on October 22. The four regional winners were: Florencio Flores, Romeo Manalo, Luz C. Gusto and Paulino Sulibit. They were formally recognized for producing the best fermented cacao beans in Calabarzon.
The event honored the outstanding efforts of farmers, cooperatives, and associations who have demonstrated excellence and sustainability in cacao production.
The program featured congratulatory messages, the presentation of plaques and certificates to winners and partners, and a photo session to celebrate the region’s milestone in advancing cacao quality.
“Local cacao products are more than just ingredients for delicious chocolates - they hold a promise of a brighter sustainable future for our farmers and the entire cacao industry”, said DTI 4-A Assistant Regional Director Revelyn A. Cortez.
“This gathering celebrates not only the progress of the cacao industry but also the promising development of Calabarzon in shaping its bright future”, said DA Undersecretary Cherryl Marie N. Caballero.
As such, the DA official assured the industry that palay output this year would not dip below the 2024 level, when reached 19.09 million metric tons (MMT), the lowest in four years.
De Mesa also said the agency remains optimistic that the country could reach its revised target of
20.3 MMT palay output in 2025, citing “improvements” in the third quarter harvest.
The DA had scaled back its palay output forecast this year to 20.3 MMT due to torrential downpours, which is lower than its initial projection of 20.45 MMT.
It added that erratic weather patterns could further lower expected paddy rice output in 2025 to as low as 20.09 MMT. If realized, the projected range would still be higher than the record 20.06 MMT in 2023.
Earlier, the Philippine Statistics
However, the latest production estimate is 1.7 percent lower than the agency’s initial forecast of 4 MMT, the PSA said. In the first semester of the year, the country’s palay harvest hit an all-time high of 9.077 MMT, indicating a 6.41 percent growth from the 8.53 MMT posted in the same period last year.
The last time unmilled rice production breached the 9-MMT mark in the first half of the year was in 2023, when it reached 9.026 MMT.
Historically, the second half of the year accounts for over 55 percent of total rice production.
PhilFida sets sights on ‘fair’ abaca pricing mechanisms
THE Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFida) has benchmarked the daily copra price monitoring system of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) in a bid to bridge the disparity in abaca prices.
The PCA noted that this comes amid farmers’ growing concerns over the widening gap between farmgate prices of abaca and pulp producers’ selling prices.
As such, the agency said this is a key step in ensuring fairer pricing mechanisms, improving farmer income, enhancing industry resilience, and strengthening inter-agency coordination.
PCA Administrator and CEO Dexter Buted expressed support for the initiative along with the data-driven interventions that promote transparency and market fairness.
Meanwhile, the agencies also discussed a proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance abaca-coconut intercropping, including the conduct of a comparative income study between abaca monocropping and abaca-coconut intercrop systems.
The funding stream for intercropping initiatives could be sourced through the Department of Agriculture’s High Value Crops Development Program (DAHVCDP), which signals potential support for farmers adopting mixed-crop systems.
Officials also agreed to revive efforts to advance the Joint Administrative Circular (JAC) to delineate their respective mandates under the Shared Responsibilities for the Regulation of Coir and Coir Products, in support of the longterm sustainability of the Philippine coir industry.
Govt eases restrictions on
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) has lifted the temporary ban it imposed on birds and poultry shipments from three countries previously affected by bird flu outbreaks.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. signed Memorandum Orders (MOs), which allowed the entry of poultry imports, including birds, poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and semen from Argentina, Turkey, and Romania.
The DA lifted the ban after veterinary authorities in the said countries reported zero new cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH).
In particular, MO 63 and MO 65 indicated that the reported case of HPAI ended with a resolved status and no additional outbreaks.
Buted said the collaboration represents “a step toward a more equitable pricing environment, farmer empowerment, and integrated fiber and coconut industry growth.”
Abaca was among the commodities that the DA pitched in a recent international forum that would constitute the Philippines’s $108.88-million agrifood investment portfolio. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2025/10/21/da-attractsinvestors-to-108-88-millionagrifood-portfolio/)
Other commodities offered were mango, seaweeds, and bamboo, according to the agency. At the recent 2025 Hand-inHand Investment Forum held during the World Food Forum (WFF) at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Headquarters in Rome, Italy, Assistant Agricul -
ture Secretary Arnel de Mesa said the plan could benefit over 35,000 rural stakeholders. He said the initiative also projects a Net Present Value (NPV) of $131.9 million with an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 34.39 percent, while aiming to sequester over 280,000 metric tons (MT) of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions, supporting national climate goals. For abaca, the DA said the project responds to a global supply gap of 25,000 metric tons (MT). The Philippines currently supplies over 85 percent of the world’s abaca fiber.
As such, the investment would establish modern processing centers, rehabilitate farmland, and support 300 farmers, with a projected IRR of 28.36 percent and a 50 percent income increase for beneficiaries. Ada Pelonia
poultry imports from 3 nations
“Based on the evaluation of the DA, the risk of contamination from importing live poultry, poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and semen is negligible,” the orders read.
“Nonetheless, all import transactions of the above commodities slaughtered/produced after the issuance of this order may commence again in accordance with existing rules and regulations of the DA.”
Meanwhile, MO 64 specifically lifted the temporary ban slapped on the importation of domestic and wild birds from Romania.
“Based on the evaluation of the DA, the risk of contamination from importing live birds [domestic & wild, specifically for the purpose of pet, zoo, etc.] is negligible,” the agency said.
The DA then noted that every import transaction of live birds
from Romania should be in accordance with the existing rules and regulations of the agency.
Temporary ban
MEANWHILE , the DA slapped a temporary ban on the importation of live cattle and water buffalo, along with their embryos, semen, and raw hides from Spain due to an outbreak of lumpy skin disease (LSD) in the region of Cataluña.
The DA chief said the move is a precautionary measure to prevent the entry of the virus into the country and “to protect the health of the local cattle and water buffalo population.”
The DA said it decided to impose the ban following an official report from Spanish veterinary authorities to WOAH, which confirmed the outbreak in domestic
cattle on October 1.
Despite this, the agency specified that low-risk commodities, like processed products, would still be allowed, provided that these were supported with veterinary certification.
Such products include milk and dairy products, skeletal muscle meat, gelatin, collagen, tallow, casings, hooves, horns, processed hides, and blood-derived meat products.
LSD is a contagious viral disease that mainly affects cattle. Infected animals may suffer from skin lesions, reduced weight and milk production, infertility, and damaged hides.
Though the disease has a relatively low mortality rate, severe cases can still result in death.
Ada Pelonia
China races to secure corn harvest after heavy rains rot crops
EPIC rains in northern China have disrupted the harvest and left crops rotting in the fields, pressuring grain supplies at a time when trade relations are fraying and imports have shrunk.
Top corn-producing provinces including Henan and Shandong have endured the longest and heaviest rainy season in six decades, according to the National Climate Center. The northern region accounts for at least 30 percent of China’s total production of the grain, but some fields are too soaked to harvest, according to state media. And there’s
a risk that corn already gathered could turn moldy.
Most of China’s corn is used for animal feed, though it’s also consumed in snacks and processed into ethanol for fuel blending. The country has become increasingly dependent on its own output, reducing purchases from countries including the US in a bid to bolster food security. That’s created vulnerability at a time when climate change is making the weather increasingly unpredictable. Imports so far this year have collapsed 93 percent to less than 1 million tons. “There isn’t much of
a buffer against production losses,”
Sitonia Consulting Co. said in a note. Farmers have rushed to sell their newly harvested crop rather than put it in storage and wait for its quality to worsen. That’s pressured prices, which have fallen over 3 percent this month in Henan. The government has also mounted a response, allocating 484 million yuan ($68 million) to support grain drying and field drainage, among other measures.
Other crops have also been affected, from soybeans to peanuts.
China’s harvest of its autumn grains
is only about 70 percent complete, so the full impact of the wet weather on both quality and quantity has yet to be determined. Although the persistent downpour in the north and west of the country is drawing to a close, tropical storms gathering in the south could affect rice and sugarcane crops. The next round of plantings is also drawing attention. Winter wheat is usually sown in northern China from this month, and the farm ministry has launched a 60day campaign to combat the impact of flooding.
On the wire
TEN months into US President Donald Trump’s second term, America’s main geopolitical rival appears to have become more adept at wielding the same economic weapons once used almost exclusively by Washington.
China’s dominance of rare earths has given Xi Jinping powerful leverage over Donald Trump ahead of their expected meeting next week.
China convened an unusually large meeting with foreign businesses in an effort to reassure them its new export controls aren’t meant
to restrict normal trade, as policymakers seek to calm a backlash over the decision.
The world’s offshore-wind suppliers are taking a beating, squeezed by rising costs and a political push against the technology in the US. But for China’s turbine makers, the storm couldn’t come at a better time.
Waiting times for commodity vessels queued off China’s ports increased to the lengthiest this year, as the geopolitical sparring between Beijing and Washington disrupts global trade. Bloomberg News
FRESHLY harvested rice in the Philippines is shown in this file photo. BLOOMBERG
Vanishing exporters: How PHL is losing ground in global trade
THE steady decline in the number of Philippine exporters over recent years is a troubling trend that requires immediate attention. With the number of businesses engaged in global trade dropping from over 6,000 to around 4,000, the implications stretch far beyond mere statistics. This decline threatens the livelihoods of many Filipinos and undermines the country’s potential for economic growth in an increasingly competitive global market. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “World is shrinking for Philippine exporters,” October 19, 2025).
The factors contributing to this decline are multifaceted. Inadequate budgets, shifting priorities towards the domestic market, and the uncertainty created by protectionist policies—such as the tariffs imposed by the United States—have all played a significant role. As Philippine Exporters Confederation Vice President Ma. Flordeliza C. Leong aptly noted, “Those with very small margins... are directly hit by tariffs and wages.” The burden of high operational costs is forcing many exporters to reconsider their business models or abandon the export market altogether.
Government action is required to confront these challenges head-on. While some officials have pointed to a shift towards domestic markets as a viable strategy, this overlooks the urgency of maintaining a robust export sector. The data from the Department of Trade and Industry’s Export Marketing Bureau reveals a troubling trend: the number of exporters has not only dwindled but has also stagnated, especially in sectors like food, where the lack of supply has become a critical issue.
Moreover, the competitive landscape for exporters has intensified, with rivals in other countries diversifying their products and markets at a pace that Philippine exporters are struggling to match. As Leong highlighted, diversification is not just a strategy; it is a necessity for survival in today’s global economy. However, the lack of financial resources hampers small exporters from investing in product development and market intelligence, leaving them vulnerable and ill-equipped to adapt.
The recent Senate hearing, where Senator Imee Marcos pressed trade officials on immediate solutions, underscores the urgency of this situation. The bureaucratic response appears slow and insufficient in addressing the immediate crisis facing thousands of workers and their families. While strengthening the domestic market is essential, it cannot replace the need for a vibrant export sector that contributes significantly to the national economy.
The call for government intervention is clear: there is a pressing need for targeted support for exporters. This includes financial assistance, investment in infrastructure, and the elimination of unnecessary fees that burden businesses. The playing field is not level—while exporters in other countries receive subsidies, Philippine exporters are left to navigate a challenging environment without similar support.
The export sector is a vital engine for economic growth, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings. Its steady erosion is a flashing red light for the nation’s economic ambitions. It signals weakening competitiveness, vulnerability to external pressures, and a failure to adequately support a vital economic engine. The loss of over 2,000 exporters represents thousands of lost jobs, diminished national income, and a shrinking footprint in the global economy.
Our exporters are hemorrhaging, and time is running out. Well-intentioned advice to pivot is insufficient; they require immediate and substantial support. It would do well for the government to act decisively with concrete, well-funded interventions to prevent the collapse of our export sector, which would devastate jobs and cripple our economy.
BusinessMirror
Christian faith under fire
TJohn Mangun
OUTSIDE THE BOX
HE world today holds nearly eight billion people. According to Open Doors International’s World Watch List 2025, more than 380 million Christians live under high levels of persecution and discrimination—about one in seven believers worldwide. It is a staggering reality that often goes unnoticed in societies where worship feels effortless.
The World Watch List is among the most cited annual reports on religious persecution. Founded in 1955 by Dutch missionary Brother Andrew, Open Doors gathers data from over 60 countries to measure anti-Christian hostility. Its faithbased methodology emphasizes religious identity, yet its findings broadly correspond with those of secular human rights monitors such as Amnesty International, Freedom House, and the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF).
Across multiple studies, one trend remains consistent: global religious freedom is declining. The Pew Research Center reports that most of the world’s population now lives in countries where restrictions on religion are high or very high. Open Doors likewise finds that persecution has intensified steadily since 2015.
In 2024, Open Doors documented approximately 4,476 Christians killed for their faith, with about 3,000 deaths occurring in Nigeria.
Other independent organizations, including Human Rights Without Frontiers, confirm persistent, large-scale religiously motivated violence across West Africa. Nigeria has endured more than a decade of attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State affiliates, and conditions remain severe.
China represents a more bureaucratic model of repression. Under the government’s policy of “Sinicization,” minors are prohibited from attending church, online evangelism is restricted, and unregistered congregations face closure. The US State Department’s 2024 International Religious Freedom Report confirms widespread detentions of pastors such as Jin Mingri of Beijing’s Zion Church. Religious expression there survives only under state supervision.
India, the world’s largest democracy, demonstrates how nationalism can erode pluralism. According to USCIRF’s 2024 report, violence against religious minorities has increased under so-called “anti-conversion”
Top island destinations
Flaws. In the states of Chhattisgarh and Manipur, churches have been attacked and communities displaced —evidence that democracy alone does not guarantee tolerance.
In Pakistan, Christians and other minorities continue to live under blasphemy statutes that permit the death penalty. Amnesty International reports that accusations often lead to mob violence or prolonged detention. Many Christians remain confined to low-wage sanitation work, marginalized by both class and creed.
Across Africa, extremist violence has become tragically common. The Africa Center for Strategic Studies and Open Doors identify Nigeria as the epicenter, but persecution also afflicts Sudan, Somalia, Eritrea, and parts of the Sahel. Casualty estimates vary, yet all major monitoring groups agree that targeted violence against Christians has reached alarming levels.
In Iran and Afghanistan, conversion from Islam is considered apostasy and can result in imprisonment, harassment, or exile, according to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion. In Indonesia, where roughly 230 million of 280 million citizens are Muslim, Christians encounter restrictions on church construction and regional bans on public worship, particularly in West Java and Aceh.
Only the Philippines and East Timor are majority-Christian nations in Asia and where worship is practiced freely. Roughly 80 percent of Filipinos identify as Catholic, and churches still ring without fear. Yet sporadic extremist violence persists in parts of Mindanao, underscor-
ing that peace requires constant vigilance.
While focusing on Christian persecution, it is important to recognize that religious restrictions affect many faiths and communities. Muslims in India, Uyghurs in China, and even atheists in Pakistan also face discrimination and often brutal state pressure. Intolerance is not confined to any single belief.
Complacency is the quiet partner of persecution. Freedom seldom vanishes in a single act; it erodes through neglect and silence. In many Western societies, faith has become comfortable but cautious. Surveys by Barna Group and the Pew Research Center reveal steep declines in both church attendance and moral conviction. When conviction weakens, courage often follows.
For Filipinos—and for all who still worship without fear—the lesson is clear. Appreciation for freedom requires protection of it, not assumption of its permanence. Freedom endures because others defended it, and many still die for it. Awareness must become action: speak for the silenced, strengthen persecuted communities, and teach the next generation that faith tested is faith proven.
Persecution, like corrosion, works gradually but relentlessly. Around the world it has hardened some believers and exposed the fragility of others. Liberty does not vanish when enemies grow powerful; it disappears when its defenders cease to care.
E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities Inc.
resilience and stewardship of our island communities.”
Mark Villar
THE BUILDER
OREIGN tourists really enjoy our exotic islands. They often visit our white sandy beaches, revel in surfing and snorkel to see spectacular reefs and aquatic animals.
It is no surprise then that Boracay, Palawan and Siargao were named last week among the Top 10 Islands in Asia in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards by US-based luxury and lifestyle magazine Condé Nast Traveler (CNT).
The recognition reaffirms the stature of the Philippines as a favored tourist destination in this part of the world.
Per the US magazine survey, Boracay ranked fourth in the lat -
est results with 90.54 points, followed by Palawan in fifth place with 90.23, and Siargao in seventh with 85.49. The annual survey drew votes from over 700,000 travelers worldwide.
Our three islands joined other top Asian destinations on CNT’s list, including Phú Quôc, Vietnam; Langkawi, Malaysia; Koh Samui, Thailand; Bali, Indonesia; Andaman Islands, India; Phuket, Thailand; and Phi Phi Islands, Thailand.
The Philippines in 2024 had four islands—Boracay, Palawan, Cebu and Siargao—listed among Asia’s Top 10, making the Southeast Asian country with the most entries that year. The Philippines has also been consistently recognized by the World Travel Awards (WTA) as Asia’s Leading Beach Destination and Asia’s Leading Dive Destination.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) naturally welcomed the recognition. DOT Secretary Christina Frasco described the distinction as “a living testament to the beauty,
She even asked travelers to help preserve these islands by practicing responsible tourism and supporting local communities. The accolade should spur our government to do more in attracting foreign tourists. Other Asian countries are stepping up their efforts to promote their respective tourism agenda. Tourism, as I have been saying before, directly creates jobs and helps increase our foreign exchange reserves. It also empowers local communities and produces several entrepreneurs. Infrastructure projects will also make our tourism destinations more accessible, boost hotel revenues and expand business opportunities. We’ve seen rising tourism arrivals this year and I am confident about its prospects this year and beyond. Airlines, as I have noted earlier, See “Villar,” A15
North Korea fires multiple missiles as Trump prepares APEC trip
By Soo-Hyang Choi
NORTH Korea fired suspected short-range missiles days before President Donald Trump and other world leaders are set to gather in South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit starting next week.
The projectiles were launched northeastward Wednesday morning, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a text message. The missiles flew about 350 kilometers (217 miles), Yonhap News said. Japanese media outlet NTV earlier reported that the missiles appeared to have fallen into waters east of the Korean Peninsula, citing an unidentified government official. But a South Korean government official said the missiles didn’t splash down in waters off east coast. The projectiles are believed to have struck North Korea’s inland, Yonhap News said, without citing sources.
The missile launches underscore the persistent threat North Korea poses to regional security and appear aimed at seizing the attention of world leaders—particularly Trump, who is expected to visit South Korea next week for trade talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The US president has floated the idea of meeting Kim Jong Un this year, touting their “very good relationship.” Kim said in September he’s open to meeting with Trump again if the US drops its denuclearization demands.
South Korea’s Unification Minister Chung Dong-young said last week he believes there is a possibility of a Trump-Kim meeting on the sidelines of the APEC gathering. There has been no indication that the two sides are arranging a summit.
Trump and Kim met three times during the US leader’s first presidency, but those encounters failed to curb the development of Kim’s
nuclear weapons program. Kim has since aligned more closely with President Vladimir Putin, supporting his war against Ukraine, even standing shoulder to shoulder with the Russian leader and China’s Xi at a major military parade in Beijing last month.
Wednesday’s launch—the first in more than five months—comes less than two weeks after Kim staged his own military parade in Pyongyang that showcased the latest Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile and a day after Sanae Takaichi made history by becoming Japan’s first female prime minister.
It’s also the North’s first missile launch after the inauguration of South Korea’s liberal President Lee Jae Myung in June. While Lee has taken steps to ease tensions with Pyongyang, North Korea has largely rebuffed his efforts and stuck to its stance that the South remains a hostile neighbor.
“Our military is maintaining a full readiness posture while closely sharing information related to North Korean ballistic missiles with the US and Japan,” the South Korean military said.
In September, Kim oversaw a ground test of a high-thrust solidfuel engine designed for long-range missiles, underscoring Pyongyang’s efforts to expand its arsenal of solidfuel missiles which can be deployed more quickly and are harder to detect than liquid-fuel systems. With assistance from Jon Herskovitz, Seyoon Kim, Shinhye Kang and Ryotaro Nakamaru/Bloomberg
Rush to Japan gold ETF triggers concerns as market whipsaws
By Kentaro Tsutsumi
THE relentless rush into gold pushed the price of Japan’s largest exchange-traded fund backed by the precious metal to a record above the value of the underlying asset, highlighting the risks to investors in a volatile market. The price of the Tokyo-traded Japan Physical Gold ETF—the only such fund in the country that’s backed by domestically stored gold—rose to as much as 16 percent relative to the net asset value early this week. That’s even after the Tokyo Stock Exchange warned investors on Friday to pay attention to the ETF’s net asset value, given the fund has been consistently trading at a premium recently.
Compounding the concerns, the spot price of gold had its biggest slump in more than 12 years on Tuesday, prompting some analysts to ring the alarm that the ETF’s upward trend may reverse.
If the gold market continues to weaken, “retail investors could sell en masse,” raising the risk of big losses, said Satoru Yoshida, a commodities analyst at Rakuten Securities Inc.
The premium on the ¥1.25 trillion ($8.2 billion) Japan gold ETF had ballooned to the widest among global peers, data compiled by Bloomberg showed. The price of the ETF dropped as much as 11 percent Wednesday after a 6.3 percent slump in gold on Tuesday. The fund stands out relative to global peers that have similar structures, such as Goldman Sachs Physical Gold ETF, abrdn Physical Gold Shares ETF and iShares Physical Gold ETF, which have never seen a divergence between the net asset
Overloaded sewer hurts UK’s bid to become a scientific superpower
By Ashleigh Furlong & Lisa Pham
BENEATH towering cranes and a new state-of-the-art laboratory in Cambridge are huge wastewater tanks—underground symbols of the UK’s struggle to overhaul its economy around life sciences and other key industries.
Developer Prologis Inc. installed the tanks because Anglian Water, the local utility responsible for treating trade effluent, didn’t have capacity. They were an expensive way to ensure tenants could work, but will also require frequent visits from honeysuckers, or vacuum trucks normally associated with rural homes and septic tanks, when the new building opens next year.
The Cambridge Biomedical Campus is a useful guide to the UK’s ambitions. It’s the home of its biggest listed company, AstraZeneca Plc, and Prologis’s $635 million investment in the site was name-checked by Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves last year. It will soon have its own station, part of a CambridgeOxford rail link designed to create an advanced research corridor.
That fits with the administration’s promise to boost growth and productivity, attract investment and create jobs. But what wasn’t said as Reeves talked up the “real show of confidence” in the UK’s strategy was that a city at its heart is starting to buckle. Lack of water is holding back housebuilding, and there are also bottlenecks around land availability and transport.
Then there is the effluent problem, with developers telling Bloomberg that permits from Anglian Water are now hard to come by. Cambridge University has 126 Nobel Prize winners, but lab development just up the road is running up against the far less prestigious problem of an overburdened sewer.
It’s a challenge at a sensitive moment—for the life sciences industry and the government. Amid a row over drug pricing and taxes, AstraZeneca has paused plans for a £200 million ($270 million) expansion of its headquarters, while Merck & Co. has pulled out of a new £1 billion early research hub in London.
At the same time, President Donald Trump’s tariff threats—and his demand for more drugs to be made in the US—weigh on executives’ thinking.
value and the trading price of more than 4 percent over the past decade, the data showed.
“The declining linkage between the ETF prices and the gold market, coupled with investors buying at expensive prices, is problematic,” Kei Okazaki, senior manager at the TSE’s ETF Market Development Department, said in an interview.
The unusual activity highlights Japanese retail buyers’ newfound desire for gold, as well as a weaker yen and local retailers halting sales of the metal, which some analysts said have accelerated fund inflows into gold ETFs. Depreciation in Japan’s currency has made investors anticipate bigger gains in gold, which is dollar-based, said Rakuten Securities’ Yoshida.
One reason for the fund’s popularity has been that, for a fee, investors can exchange their holdings for the precious metal.
When the trading price of the Japanese gold ETF exceeds the net asset value, issuer Mitsubishi Corp. purchases physical gold, and securities firms sell the newly established funds on the market, which usually leads to the gap narrowing.
A representative of the Mitsubishi subsidiary which deals with precious metals procurement said that while the firm is sourcing bullion not only domestically but also from overseas, it is struggling to keep pace with surging demand and the rapid price rise. Other gold ETFs in Japan aren’t backed by the domestically stored metal. The iShares Gold ETF invests in a
Against that uncertain backdrop, the last thing a developer needs is question maker over local services. But that’s what Prologis, whose history at the campus began in 2019 when it bought Liberty Property Trust, was faced with.
Prologis often builds speculatively, without guaranteed tenants during construction. The risk usually pays off—an earlier building on the campus, where antibody drug producer Abcam Ltd. is a neighbor, was quickly leased to Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and German drugmaker BioNTech SE after it was completed at the end of 2023.
Yet when Prologis asked about trade effluent licenses for future tenants at its new site, Anglian Water said it couldn’t guarantee them. While the utility has to accept ordinary sewage from any development with planning permission, that’s not the case for liquid discharge from things like chemical production.
Prologis opted to install tanks, and will do it at other projects on the campus. But it’s not a solution that will work at every site in the city.
“We need to make sure that utility infrastructure is in place to allow that growth to happen,” Paul Weston, the head of Prologis in the UK, said in an interview. “Otherwise no matter how many billions are being looked at, it’s going to be very hard for that to actually be invested.”
Anglian Water had planned to boost capacity by relocating its treatment plant to a new site, initially seeking £227 million of support from the government. Underscoring the jigsaw puzzle of development planning in Cambridge, the move would have enabled thousands of new homes to be built on the old site.
But the government pulled its backing in August, after the project price rose due to material and labor costs. Anglian Water is now objecting to future planning applications until there are plans to increase capacity at its current site. On one recent ob -
The Cambridge Biomedical Campus is a useful guide to the UK’s ambitions. It’s the home of its biggest listed company, AstraZeneca Plc, and Prologis’s $635 million investment in the site was name-checked by Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves last year. It will soon have its own station, part of a Cambridge-Oxford rail link designed to create an advanced research corridor.
jection, it said an assessment would conclude by June next year.
The saga touches on a range of problems the government is struggling to fix, from lengthy planning processes holding back renewable energy and key infrastructure to stretched public finances felt just about everywhere.
The UK’s water and sewage crisis is also a major political issue, with many water companies facing a backlash especially in areas where overflows during heavy rain and other leaks are polluting rivers and beaches. The River Cam, an ecologically important chalk stream that runs through Cambridge, had hundreds of hours of sewage spills in 2024. Anglian Water was ordered to pay £63 million in July.
A couple of miles from the campus housing AstraZeneca, Abstract Securities chose not to install wastewater tanks at the recently completed first phase of South Cambridge Science Centre, construction director Michael Gallacher said.
The situation with Anglian Water deters companies and creates risk for developers, he said, adding that either the government should provide the funding or the utility should be forced to accept additional wastewater.
“The idea of doing nothing is absurd,” Gallacher said.
Anglian Water said it decides trade effluent applications on a case by case basis and is working with the government to speed up plans to upgrade its water recycling center. It declined to give further details on applications.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government said Anglian Water’s relocation plan had become unaf-
China warns Australia to quit aircraft provocations or risk ties
CHINA accused Australia of distorting facts and using inflammatory rhetoric following a mid-air encounter between the nations’ military aircraft and urged Canberra to avoid undermining bilateral ties.
Beijing made “stern representations” to Canberra after the latter said that a Chinese aircraft intercepted an Australian patrol plane in an “unsafe and unprofessional” manner over the South China Sea on Sunday and that the PLA-AF Su-35 fighter jet “released flares in close proximity” to the RAAF plane.
The Australian statement “distorts the facts and falsely accuses China in an attempt to cover up its military aircraft’s illegal intrusion into Chinese airspace,” the defense ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.
Australia’s Defense Minister Richard Marles had rejected the intrusion assertion in comments Tuesday. He said the P-8A Poseidon was on a “routine maritime surveillance patrol that happened in international airspace, above international waters and at every moment our crew was adhering to international law.”
China is Australia’s largest trading partner and the
Australia’s Defense Minister Richard Marles had rejected the intrusion assertion in comments Tuesday. He said the P-8A Poseidon was on a “routine maritime surveillance patrol that happened in international airspace, above international waters and at every moment our crew was adhering to international law.”
two governments only recently patched up ties that deteriorated sharply during the pandemic. The US is Australia’s closest security ally and as tensions between Washington and Beijing escalate, Canberra is struggling to strike a balance between the two.
“We urge the Australian side to immediately cease its provocations and inflammatory rhetoric, strictly restrain frontline naval and air forces, and avoid undermining China-Australia bilateral and military relations,” the
fordable and taxpayers’ money had to be used responsibly. “We are committed to ensuring Cambridge has the infrastructure it needs to reach its full growth potential,” they said.
The risk is companies get put off from investing. Cambridge is a relative bright spot in an otherwise moribund UK life sciences sector, despite the government’s goal to make it the world’s number three by 2035 behind the US and China.
Research from Bidwells forecasts that while the drop in demand for laboratories in Cambridge is slowing and all office buildings delivered this year have been let, the real estate company also notes there have been no pre-let agreements on any of the lab developments still under construction.
Despite its lofty ambitions, the UK government faces regular criticism from the life sciences industry. Front and center is the standoff over how the UK values and compensates companies for new medicines.
Trump’s strong-arming of drugmakers to invest in the US has given more cover to hit out at the UK, with AstraZeneca’s local head Tom KeithRoach warning MPs last month that countries “seen to value innovation” will reap the most investment. Just as Merck and AstraZeneca have scaled back plans, Eli Lilly & Co. paused a London biotech incubator called the Gateway Labs.
At the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, progress on the new lab and office block is rapid as men in hi-vis vests scurry around the shell of the building. With over 100,000 square feet (9,290 square meters) of space, it could accommodate up to two occupiers per floor over its five stories. Nearby, the new station on the East West Rail project will shortly bring a major connectivity boost. Yet vacant land next to AstraZeneca’s landmark headquarters raise questions around UK life sciences, about how much big-picture arguments over drug pricing—and local ones over water treatment—are damaging its prospects.
“Every barrier to development that adds additional cost potentially impacts on deliverability— however large or small,” said Liam Nicholls, chief executive officer of Creative Places, a property consultancy focused on R&D developments. Bloomberg
Chinese military said. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese traveled to China three months ago and this week visited the US where he agreed to a critical minerals deal aimed at helping western firms pivot away from Chinese supplies of rare earths.
China’s strong response and accusations highlight the mounting military tensions in the Asia-Pacific. Marles has previously characterized it as the most complex strategic circumstances Australia has faced since World War II.
Australia is also in the middle of a major military expansion including the planned acquisition of a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines under the Aukus pact with the US and UK. Still, the government remains confident it can manage the tensions, with Treasurer Jim Chalmers telling Bloomberg on Tuesday that “it’s possible to engage with the Americans in the way that we have been and to continue to stabilize and invest in that very important China relationship at the same time.” With assistance from Catherine Wong/Bloomberg
are expanding their flight routes, and developers are planning new hotels to meet the expected demand. Hotel rooms are projected to grow significantly over the years to accommodate both local and foreign visitors.
Per the DOT, the Philippines currently has over 335,000 hotel rooms, but demand is expected to reach 456,000 by 2028. New forecasts from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) predict a record-breaking year for the sector.
The privatization and upgrade of several airports, meanwhile, will certainly increase capacity and result in more direct flights to key destinations.
Tourism infrastructure is key to unlocking the full potential of the country’s top destinations.
The government can enhance the travel experience in key destination through several projects, including the privatization and upgrade of several airports like Iloilo, Davao, Siargao and Caticlan (Boracay).
The DOT has already expressed support to the Siargao airport expansion to ensure that the beauty of Siargao “can be fully shared with the world.”
Developing the travel industry requires parallel investment in transport and tourism infrastructure projects, such as railways, roads, bridges, airports, hotels, resorts as well as communication facilities.
The government’s Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP), a joint initiative of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the DOT, is allocating funds to build and improve roads connecting to tourist destinations.
I am hopeful that all these infrastructure projects will be completed in time to accommodate the rising number of foreign visitors. And I will not be surprised if more islands and beach destinations in the Philippines join Boracay, Palawan and Siargao in the list of top tourist destinations in the world. For feedback e-mail to senatormarkvillar@gmail.com or visit our web site: https://markvillar.com.ph
Thursday, October 23, 2025
2nd Front Page
BusinessMirror
CYBER ATTACKS SURGE 49% IN Q3, ENABLED BY A.I–REPORT
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
THE Philippines recorded over 52 million exposed credentials in just three months as cyber attacks surged 49 percent during the third quarter of 2025, with artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfake technology enabling a new generation of digital threats that are faster, more deceptive, and harder to detect than ever before.
Viettel Cyber Security documented 76 data breach incidents between July and September, up from 51 cases in the previous quarter, according to its third quarter Cyber Threat Landscape Report on the Philippines.
The breaches compromised 4.3 million accounts, a 73-percent increase from the 2.5 million affected in the second quarter.
According to the report, cybercriminals now deploy AIgenerated videos, cloned voices, and fabricated executive communications to deceive employees and business partners.
Combined with AI-assisted malware that adapts to evade detection, these technologies have industrialized deception at scale.
“Cybersecurity isn’t about fear, it’s about foresight,” said Thomas Luu, Country Manager
at Viettel Cyber Security. “As the Philippines accelerates towards digitalization faster than ever, the importance of security must not be overlooked.”
The quarter recorded 7,656 phishing attacks, with 31 percent targeting banking and finance. Researchers also identified 27 new vulnerabilities in commonly used workplace platforms.
The report also noted that healthcare has emerged as the top target for cybercriminals, driven by the growing value of patient data and hospitals’ reliance on digital systems. Medical facilities face ransomware attacks capable of crippling operations and exposing sensitive information.
Finance and e-commerce continue suffering from phishing schemes and credential theft, while manufacturing, energy, and public services remain exposed to ransomware and supply-chain compromises.
“Organizations who innovate without the necessary protection in place become vulnerable to risks. Cybersecurity isn’t just a safeguard—it’s an enabler of sustainable digital growth,” Luu said.
With data leaks, ordinary Filipinos are finding their data
DOLE eyeing longer work period in TUPAD program
AMIDBy Justine Xyrah Garcia
concerns that it may be vulnerable to political patronage, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is studying the possible extension of the working period for beneficiaries of its emergency employment program, Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma confirmed on Wednesday.
Laguesma said the assessment followed initial findings of the agency’s impact study showing that most Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) beneficiaries consider the duration of the program too short.
“The study is ongoing...Under TUPAD, the issue raised is that the program duration is too short... We are considering extending it, but that would mean fewer beneficiaries since the funds would have
to be spread across longer employment periods,” Laguesma said during the Senate Committee on Finance hearing.
TUPAD provides emergency employment lasting from 10 to 90 days for displaced, underemployed, and seasonal workers.
Beneficiaries are typically deployed to community-based activities such as clean-up drives, debris clearing, and minor repairs of public facilities, and are paid based on the region’s prevailing minimum wage.
No vital documents in DPWH QC office fire
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
AFIRE broke out at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bureau of Research and Standards (BRS) building on Wednesday, fanning the flames of speculation that documents related to the ongoing flood control corruption investigation may have been destroyed. However, officials were quick to assure the public that no such materials were affected. In a statement released shortly
after the incident, the DPWH confirmed that the fire originated from a computer unit inside the Materials Testing Division that “reportedly exploded.”
No employees were injured during the incident.
The agency emphasized that no materials connected to the corruption probe into flood control projects were stored in the affected building.
“The DPWH confirms that no documents related to the ongoing investigation into the flood control
anomalies were in the Bureau of Research and Standards building that caught fire in Quezon City today,” the statement read.
The BRS is responsible for conducting research, studies, pilot testing, and formulating policies for government infrastructure projects.
An investigation team has been deployed to assess the full extent of the damage and prevent similar incidents in the future, according to the DPWH.
The agency, described among
the most graft-ridden in the bureaucracy, has been ensnared in one of the biggest corruption scandals in the history of Philippine governance, after its role as a focal point for plowing infrastructure funds into substandard, wrongly located, or even nonexistent flood control projects was exposed.
In recent hearings on its 2026 budget, the DPWH has seen over P200 billion of its budget taken away and diverted into other sectors.
Senate Committee on Finance
Chairperson Senator Sherwin Gatchalian also supported the review, saying the department must base its decision on a proper impact study.
“The initiative might look good... but we also need a science-based approach to determine whether the program truly creates impact, even if short term,” he said.
Under the 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP), P12.24 billion has been allocated for the Government Internship Program (GIP) and TUPAD, of which P11 billion is intended for the latter.
The amount is lower than this year’s P18 billion combined budget for both programs.
In the House of Representatives, the Budget Amendments Review Subcommittee of the Committee on Appropriations has approved the realignment of a portion of the Department of Public Works and Highways’ 2025 budget to increase TUPAD’s funding to P26.96 billion. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/09/22/ house-panel-oks-realignment-of%E2%82%B1255-5b-in-dpwhflood-control-fund/).
The realignment, however, re -
mains at the House level and will still be subject to bicameral deliberations before a final amount is adopted.
DOLE Assistant Secretary Amuerfina Reyes said the proposed cut under the NEP could affect not only the number of workers assisted but also the quality of interventions.
“If financial support is reduced, it will definitely have a domino effect—not just on the number of beneficiaries but also on the quality of assistance for people who need it most during emergencies and calamities,” Reyes said, noting that TUPAD serves as a stopgap measure for displaced workers.
‘TUPAD should be productive’ FOR Ateneo de Manila University labor economist Leonardo A. Lanzona, the effectiveness of extending TUPAD would depend on whether the work under the program becomes more productive.
“The number of days paid under TUPAD should lead to productive output. Otherwise, it will remain a doleout,” Lanzona told BusinessMirror He said the government could turn TUPAD into a training platform
See “DOLE,” A2
Labor group cautions workers as FTA talks with EU resume
By Ma. Alyanna Selda
AS the Philippines and the European Union (EU) resume free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations in Cebu, a labor group told Filipino workers not to be swayed by what it called the EU’s “lofty talk” of labor rights and sustainable development, saying such promises have repeatedly failed to protect workers in other countries.
The Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa (SENTRO) warned that without binding protections for labor rights, an EUPhilippines FTA could mirror Vietnam’s experience, where promised reforms under a similar deal failed to materialize.
“Without enforceable guarantees for freedom of association, living wages, and decent work, an EU–Philippines FTA will only deepen inequality and exploitation,” SENTRO said in a statement on Wednesday.
“We’ve seen this playbook before,” it added, citing Vietnam and its FTA with the EU, which required the ratification of International Labour Organization (ILO) core conventions.
Despite commitments to align with international labor standards under its trade agreements, Vietnam has yet to ratify ILO Convention No. 87 on Freedom of Association, with independent unions still prohibited and several labor activists reportedly detained.
SENTRO also cited the European Union’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), saying the bloc failed to review the Philippines’ trade privileges despite widespread human rights violations and the thousands of deaths linked to the Duterte administration’s “war on drugs.”
“These lessons are clear: EU trade deals protect capital, not workers,” the group said.
Since the resumption of FTA talks was announced in March 2024, the Philippines and the EU have held several negotiation rounds in October last year, and again in February and June this year.
The two sides first launched FTA discussions in 2016, followed by a
second round in 2017. This was before the process was suspended due to the EU’s human rights concerns over the Duterte administration’s anti-drug campaign.
During the European-Philippine Business Dialogue on October 18, Board of Investments Promotion Services executive director Evariste Cagatan said the Philippines and the EU are working to conclude the trade talks before the expiration of the EU’s GSP+, which currently allows dutyfree entry for over 6,000 Philippine products.
“The Philippines and the EU are actively pursuing negotiations for a comprehensive FTA that is expected to strengthen economic and investment linkages between both parties,” Cagatan said.
According to SENTRO, the EU is demanding provisions “more than what the Philippines has ever agreed to in any trade deal before,” including measures that would grant European investors legal protections, open Philippine markets and resources, and limit the country’s ability to regulate its own economy.
Citing the proposed digital trade chapter, SENTRO said the EU’s agenda reflects the interests of “big tech” companies such as Google, Meta, Amazon, Apple and Microsoft. The chapter reportedly includes binding rules that ban customs duties on electronic transmissions, restrict data localization, limit government access to source code and guarantee free cross-border data flows.
“The Philippines has no industrial or digital trade policy. On what basis can our negotiators meet these demands?” SENTRO said, noting that even the United States refrained from adopting similar provisions in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework out of concern for regulatory freedom.
SENTRO urged Congress to exercise strict oversight on the trade talks and demand transparency and accountability from the government. It also called on Filipino workers to “stay vigilant, organized, and united” in ensuring that any trade agreement would protect their rights, jobs and future.
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
Companies
BusinessMirror
B1 Thursday, October 23, 2025
PH1 sales surge on brisk demand for condo projects
By VG Cabuag @villygc
PH1 World Developers Inc., the property development arm of Megawide Construction Corp., on Wednesday said it more than doubled its sales to P3.38 billion in January to September from the previous year’s P1.59 billion.
The level is already 94 percent of full year 2024’s sales, which might be breached before the end of October, the company said.
“Our sales success is a reflection of how we approach development differently,” Gigi Alcantara, PH1 president, said.
The company’s strong showing is largely driven by standout developments such as Lykke Kondo in Pasig and One Lancaster Park in Cavite.
Launched only in early 2025, Lykke Kondo has already crossed the P1-billion reservation mark, proving the strong demand for its innovative condo offering.
Meanwhile, One Lancaster Park continues to dominate, generating more than P2 billion in total sales since its first tower launch.
Its third tower, introduced earlier this year, already accounts for nearly P1 billion of that amount in reservations.
able contributor to Megawide’s consolidated revenue and net income generation starting next year, the company said.
PH1 said it is poised to exceed its 2024 performance by “a wide margin” and contribute more significantly to Megawide’s consolidated performance for this year.
Megawide announced last Monday that it received the notice of award from the local government unit (LGU) of Baguio City to implement a P1.2-billion terminal project.
Honda PHL opens new shop in Bataan
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
HONDA Philippines Inc. (HPI), the top motorcycle manufacturer in the country, opened its 800th shop in the country through the newly inaugurated Transcycle in Bagac, Bataan, operated by Gentrade International Philippines Inc. (GIPI).
HPI said the new branch will be a “one-stop hub” for the riding community in Bataan.
committed to deliver mobility solutions that “uplift lives and empower Filipinos to achieve their dreams.”
Matthey Siy Cha, CEO of Transcycle said this new branch is more than just a building. “It’s a commitment to serve our customers better, to bring the Honda experience closer to the community, and to create opportunities for growth, both for our people and our city.”
Honda said the new Transcycle in Bagac is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Mondays to Saturdays.
“Yes, location is critical, and all our projects are strategically placed for accessibility and convenience. But beyond that, PH1 brings an extra touch—a vision to deliver a true first-world living experience to Filipinos, championing the mission of our parent company, Megawide.”
As of end-September, PH1 still has unbooked revenues of around P10.16 billion and outstanding inventory of more than P20 billion from its existing projects. These excludes developments to be launched soon.
Despite market challenges, PH1 has already secured nearly P3.34 billion in reservation sales this year.
With these healthy levels, PH1 is expected to become a more valu-
The Baguio City Integrated Terminal (BCIT) project will be implemented under a 40-year lease agreement with the LGU.
Initially targeted to serve seven southbound routes—including La Union, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Metro Manila and Cavite—the terminal is initially designed to accommodate 25,000 passengers daily, for both long haul and daily commuters.
Voltai sets up battery swap network
VBy Lenie Lectura @llectura
OLTAI, a startup under 1882
Energy Ventures of Aboitiz Power Corp., unveiled the country’s first large-scale battery swap ecosystem for two-wheeled electric vehicles (EVs).
Fazlur Abdul Rahman, 1882 Energy Ventures Head of Ideation and Voltai co-founder and CEO, said this is tailored to businesses operating vehicle fleets, particularly those with logistical, food and beverage delivery, and ride-hailing services.
“As a business-to-business solution, it addresses downtime, frequent maintenance, and fuel cost challenges for fleet businesses and riders, while also providing remote visibility on utilization,” Rahman said on Tuesday.
A pilot preview of the battery swapping station, two-wheeled EVs, and Voltai’s management application software was launched in Pasig City. It was attended by the Private Express and Messengerial Association of the Philippines and logistics associations.
There are currently 15 battery swapping stations deployed and Voltai plans to further expand next year in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. Voltai has partnered with fuel retailer Cleanfuel, as well as coliving and dormitory brand MyTown, to situate the 15 battery swapping stations, which are currently the largest EV swap network in the country.
The venture leases its EVs and batteries for a fixed fee, thereby shielding consumer businesses from rising vehicle costs and fluctuating fuel prices. Battery swapping also allows for faster turnaround when powering up. With consumer businesses switching from gas-powered two-wheel fleets to electric, it also lowers their overall emissions.
Its mobile app, meanwhile, serves as a rider’s interface for checking battery health and identifying the nearest battery swap station, which they can be routed to via Google Maps. Tracking location, swap history, and rider performance are also available in the mobile app.
Customers will also gain access to Voltai’s web-based Fleet Management System where managers can view location, trip history, cumulative mileage, various alerts, and carbon emission reduction, as well
as organize riders by area or shift.
“We are very excited to share Voltai with the Philippine market and provide businesses with fleet requirements a competitive edge through lower costs, higher efficiency, and reduced emissions without the need to shoulder heavy upfront costs,” added Rahman.
The Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (Evida) mandates industrial and commercial companies;
public transport operators; and local government units, national government agencies, and governmentowned and -controlled corporations to ensure that at least 5 percent of their fleet, whether owned or leased, are EVs. The Philippine Energy Plan 2023-2050 targets re-fleeting 10 percent to 50 percent of all fleets with electric vehicles by 2040 onwards under Business-As-Usual and Clean Energy scenarios, respectively.
Nearly 30,000 Homebuyers to Join DHSUD, Pag-IBIG Fund at National Housing Expo on Oct. 23-24
NEARLY 30,000 potential homebuyers are expected to attend the National Housing Expo as the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, Pag-IBIG Fund, key government shelter agencies, and private developers showcase housing opportunities at the World Trade Center in Pasay City on October 23 and 24.
The event serves as a showcase of the government’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program. More than 100,000 brand-new homes will be on sale through the Pag-IBIG Housing Loan from the top 50 developers in the country, while over 30,000 Pag-IBIG Acquired Assets will be offered at discounts of up to 40 percent.
“The National Housing Expo stands as a landmark initiative that unites and brings together the entire housing sector, both government agencies and private institutions alike, in fulfillment of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure that every Filipino family has access to affordable and decent housing,” said DHSUD Secretary and Pag-IBIG Fund Chairman Jose Ramon P. Aliling.
“As part of our National Shelter Month activities this October, we are also holding regional housing fairs in Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Iloilo, Pampanga, Bacolod, Batangas, and General Santos. These events, along with this Expo in Metro Manila, form part of our nationwide push to bring the Expanded 4PH Program closer to Filipino families across the country,” he added.
At the Expo, visitors will be able to browse exhibits of housing projects in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. A key feature that distinguishes the Expo is that potential homebuyers will be assessed for their Pag-IBIG Housing Loan entitlement based on their income, al-
lowing them to identify which properties they can afford through the agency’s affordable loan programs. They will also be able to get direct assistance from Pag-IBIG Fund and attend scheduled learning sessions throughout the two-day event.
Meanwhile, Pag-IBIG Fund
Chief Executive Officer Marilene C. Acosta reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to helping more Filipino workers own homes through affordable and accessible financing. She said the Expo underscores the strong collaboration among housing agencies and the private sector in advancing President Marcos' vision of inclusive and dignified housing for all.
“Pag-IBIG Fund remains the largest home financier in the country. We continue to make homeownership easier and more affordable through our 3 percent interest rate for socialized housing under the Expanded 4PH Program. Just recently, we reduced our rate to only 4.5 percent per annum for properties worth up to P1.8 million, available to the first 10,000 local workers and 1,000 overseas Filipino workers,” Acosta said. “For those seeking ready-tooccupy homes with substantial discounts, the Pag-IBIG Acquired Assets Super Sale runs until December. Meanwhile, members planning to renovate their homes can avail of our Home Improvement Loan program, which offers up to ₱300,000 in financing for repairs and upgrades. Pag-IBIG Fund stands ready to support every Filipino worker in their journey to homeownership. Backed by our strong financial position, we are committed to making affordable and dignified housing a reality for all,” she added.
Registration for the National Housing Expo is ongoing at https:// events.pagibigfund.gov.ph . Admission is free, and slots for Day 2 are still available.
“Spanning a 243-sqm floor area, the modern facility offers complete lineup, ranging from efficient automatic, cub, and business units to powerful sports bikes and innovative electric vehicles,” it said in a statement.
The motorcycle manufacturer also noted that the store will have a “fully equipped service bay featuring special tools, Honda genuine parts, and highly trained mechanics.”
It said customers can “unwind” in the dedicated lounge area with complimentary Wi-Fi and refreshments while waiting for their preventive maintenance service.
Takeshi Kobayashi, HPI president, said the opening of the 800th Honda 3S Shop marks a “significant achievement,” adding that Honda is
The inauguration ceremony, held last October 16, was graced by the following officials: HPI’s Kobayashi; and General Manager for Sales Office 1 Hervic Villa.
Also representing Transcycle were Managing Directors Jose Siy Cha and Juanita Siy, and Mark Dioniso See, business development head of Transcycle.
In a statement on Tuesday, Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association Inc. (MDPPA) Marketing Committee Chairperson Toni Boi Acuesta said motorcycles remain a popular choice among Filipinos as this type of vehicle offers “affordable means of personal mobility, especially at a time when economic uncertainties have placed pressure on household budgets.”
Banking&Finance
The rising threat of digital fraud
IN 2024, it was reported that the Philippine financial services industry experienced about 38,370 phishing attacks.
The attacks are part of the 83-percent year-over-year global rise in financial related scams that utilize fake banking websites, fraudulent investment portals, phishing SMS messages to obtain customer information or mislead users to unauthorized transactions. It is estimated that 23 percent of ransomware attacks on financial services organizations were due to compromised credentials. Financial services professionals were the most likely to open phishing email with a global click rate of over 26 percent in opening phishing emails recorded. The global average cost of the data breach in the financial services industry stood at $6.08 million on the same year.
BSP Circular 1213
TO address tighter security regulation, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) issued Circulars 1213, 1214, and 1215, laying out measures that banks, e-wallets and other financial institutions must take to combat mule accounts, phishing schemes and other forms of digital fraud. This followed after the enactment of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (Afasa) in 2024.
The BSP’s directive focused on making all types of local biometricbased passkeys stronger. BSP Circular 1213 mandates a shirt toward secure, user-friendly cybersecurity alternatives as it observed limitations on the use of interceptable authentication mechanisms such as One-Time Pins (OTPs) via SMS and email. With the increasing prevalence of social engineering attacks aimed at obtaining login credentials, banking, financial services, and insurance institutions should limit the use of authentication mechanisms that can be shared to, or intercept-
THE Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank) expects that extending P5 billion in financing for water projects nationwide would boost the country’s water security.
The expectations are pinned on a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by Landbank President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz and Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla. The deal expects Landbank and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) would jointly promote sustainable water resource management. According to the state-run lender, the collaboration builds on Landbank’s “H2OPE Lending” program that has supported 35 borrowers nationwide as of August. Under the MOU, the LandBank and the DENR will provide financial and technical assistance to water districts, local government units (LGUs) and other institutions engaged in water supply, sanitation and conservation projects.
The MOU also expects the LandBank to allocate funds and design financing programs for eligible projects, promote concessional lending opportunities and provide related financial services.
As a “Direct Access Entity” to the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the bank will also partner with the DENR to develop and manage projects seeking GCF funding. “LandBank reiterates its commit -
BOC schedules auction of 13 vehicles owned by Discayas
Ted by third parties unrelated to the transaction.
BSP Circular 1213 cites the use of modern authentication standards such as the Fast Identity Online (FIDO), a technical specification for online user identity authentication that allows biological features or a security key to log in to online accounts. It encourages financial institutions to adopt phishing-resistant methods such as:
n Biometric and behavioral biometrics
n Cryptographic authentication n Hardware tokens and passwordless solutions
The circular further adds that proposed liability shifts mean that institutions persisting with outdated methods like SMS OTPs may be held financially accountable for resulting fraud losses.
Anticipating sophisticated cyber threats
THE BSP, through Circular 1213, wants financial institutions to be prepared as cyber criminals continue to mount more sophisticated and frequent attacks. Prone to these attacks are banking, payment services, insurance and fintech, among others. Even QR-code phishing and AI-driven phishing have increased in the past years. Philippine banks must be aware and adopt
The Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP) affirms its commitment to help communicate the BSP’s directives to help keep financial institutions and consumers safe.
Eric Montelibano is a consultant of Integrated Marketing and Communications at CSBank (Citystate Savings Bank) and the president of the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP). He can be reached at erichmontelibano@gmail. com. The writer’s views and his written piece do not necessarily reflect those of the BusinessMirror and the BMAP.
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
HE Bureau of Customs (BOC) is set to auction 13 luxury vehicles owned by government contractors Cezarah Rowena “Sarah” C. Discaya and spouse Pacifico “Curlee” F. Discaya II on November 15 to generate additional revenues for the government.
Customs Assistant Commissioner
Vincent Philip C. Maronilla told reporters last Wednesday that the Discayas were given 15 days to submit the necessary documents. These documents, however, were found “unsatisfactory” by the BOC, Maronilla added. He said that the BOC verified the documents were incomplete and the payments were deficient.
THE Bureau of Internal Reve-
nue (BIR) has imposed stricter rules to prevent schemes used to avoid excise taxes in the sale or transfer of automobiles.
Revenue Regulation 027-2025 altered the rules on how ad valorem tax—or tax imposed on an item based on its assessed value—is computed when a tax-exempt entity sells or transfers an automobile to a nontax-exempt buyer.
The BIR said the new rule aims to “ensure equitable tax computation and alignment with market-based valuation.”
According to the BIR, the tax will be based on the actual selling price agreed upon by the parties or the de-
THE Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) has rolled out an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered chatbot in its bid to digitalize its systems to provide faster and smarter public services.
ment to provide accessible financing to water districts, LGUs, and other entities engaged in water supply, sanitation, and conservation projects,” Ortiz said. “Together, we aim to build resilient communities, strengthen public health, and secure the country’s water future.”
The DENR, for its part, will identify priority water programs, provide technical guidance on resource management and conservation, and assist project proponents in obtaining environmental permits and approvals.
“Integrated water management is a challenge that we need to be constantly working on. With LandBank’s support as the implementing agency for the loan facility, we can move forward with ease, without having to establish a new system and new agencies to administer the same,” Lotilla said.
“Through this partnership, we will also explore a responsive loan instrument for water service providers to better support their operations and improve access to safe water across communities,” he added. Eligible projects under the initiative include water supply system development and rehabilitation, wastewater treatment, watershed protection, and other climate-resilient programs aligned with national priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation for all. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
A statement issued by the state’s deposit insurer last Wednesday read that the “PDIC Online Assistant,” or “Pola,” is now accessible via the PDIC website and will soon be available on Facebook Messenger to expand its reach to more users.
The chatbot—a computer program designed to simulate conversation with human users—is designed to provide clients and stakeholders with real-time, accurate and user-friendly assistance,
ADOZEN local government units (LGUs) across the country received a timely boost in emergency health services after receiving brandnew “patient transport vehicles” (PTVs) from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. last Tuesday.
The latest beneficiaries include the City of Navotas and the following municipalities: Calumpit (Bulacan); Baras (Rizal); New Bataan (Davao de Oro); Bugallon (Pangasinan); Toboso (Negros Occidental); Sultan Kudarat (Maguindanao del Norte); and, Burgos, Laoag, Bacarra, Sarrat and Pasuquin (Ilocos Norte).
A statement issued by the
“In fact, incompleteness of being sure that it was actually legally imported to the Philippines is the basis why we are forfeiting these cars and scheduling them for auction,” Maronilla said.
The BOC will be “fair” in valuing the luxury cars since its obligation in setting the floor price is to ensure that the government will not be at a disadvantage, he added.
preciated value of the automobile at the time of sale, whichever is higher.
The annual depreciation rate is set at 16 percent, but limits the total allowable depreciation to no more than 80 percent of the vehicle’s original cost or value.
For vehicles acquired by a taxexempt person or entity before—but sold after—the effectivity of the new rules, the computation of ad valorem tax will be governed by the current regulation, according to the BIR.
When it is determined that a taxexempt automobile was acquired primarily to avoid the payment of excise tax, the ad valorem tax will be assessed based on the vehicle’s original purchase price or importa-
allowing them to access information anytime and anywhere, read the statement.
According to the PDIC, the chatbot forms part of the GOCC’s “broader” customer handling system, a centralized platform that streamlines how the agency manages queries, requests and complaints across multiple service channels.
“’Pola’ is designed to enhance our ability to respond quickly, accurately, and efficiently to public inquiries—especially as we see a growing number of tech-savvy depositors, closed bank clients, and other stakeholders engaging with us online,” PDIC and CEO President Roberto B. Tan said during the launch on October 14.
Pagcor read that each PTV comes fully equipped with a GPS navigation system, ambulance stretcher, medical oxygen, wheelchair, and first aid kit, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of patients to the nearest hospitals or healthcare facilities.
Pagcor Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco, who led the turnover ceremony at the agency’s Corporate Office in Pasay City, underscored the vehicles’ critical role in saving lives, particularly in remote communities where disaster response is often hindered by mobility challenges.
“These vehicles are not merely means of transport,” Tengco was quoted in the statement as say -
The government is looking at an additional P100 million to over P200 million in additional revenues should these cars be sold at the auction, according to Maronilla.
Since the smuggled cars were seized by the BOC due to irregularities in their importation and documentation, the Customs official assured potential buyers that the vehicles would not face legal issues later on.
“Remember that these cars will be sold by the Bureau of Customs. So, if you buy them, you can be assured that they will not be chased,” Maronilla said. “They will go through the right process since we will issue certifications to you that you bought them at the auction. So, you will be able to use them without any problem.”
The vehicles that will be up for sale are the Toyota Tundra, Toyota Sequoia, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Mercedes-Benz AMG G63 AMG SUV, Mercedes-Benz G 500, Lincoln Navigator 2021, Bentley Bentayga, Lincoln Navigator 2024, GMC Yu-
tion value at the time of acquisition, with no allowance for depreciation, the BIR stressed.
If the BIR finds that the sale or transfer was mainly intended to avoid the payment of excise taxes, then the ad valorem tax will be assessed based on the original purchase price or value of importation at the time of acquisition, with no allowance for depreciation.
The regulation also outlined several indicators that may suggest a scheme to circumvent excise tax obligations, unless proven by evidence.
These include the sale or transfer of a vehicle within a short period from acquisition without valid justification, repeated purchases by
Tan assured the public that while PDIC is embracing digitalization, traditional service channels remain intact.
The PDIC Public Assistance Center will continue to cater to walk-in clients who prefer in-person assistance to ensure that “no one is left behind” in the agency’s modernization efforts.
“Regardless of the channel— online or face-to-face—our commitment remains the same: timely, accurate, and personalized service for every Filipino we serve,” Tan added.
In her keynote message, Civil Service Commission (CSC) Assistant Commissioner Judith A. Dongallo-Chicano lauded the initiative, commending PDIC for leveraging
ing. “They are lifelines that can make the difference between life and death for those in need of urgent medical attention.”
New Bataan Mayor Mar Bianca Cualing-Brua welcomed the donation, noting its timeliness following the recent series of strong earthquakes that affected Visayas and Mindanao, read the statement.
“When calamities strike, local governments rely on their own capacities and resources for emergency medical services.
Donations like this are crucial,”
Cualing-Brua, who is also a lawyer, said. “We are truly grateful to Pagcor for choosing our town as a recipient of their PTV donation.”
The importers of these vehicles may face charges for illegal importation under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (Republic Act 10863), Maronilla said.
If it is proven that the Discayas knew about or conspired in the smuggling, they could also face illegal importation charges.
“If our investigations reveal that the Discayas are in cahoots with the importers, then their penalties will be the same,” Maronilla said.
“Our investigation is ongoing and we’re just getting testimonies and validating some of the documents,” he added, noting that the report and the recommendations for filing of cases will be done after the auction process.
As for the 17 vehicles owned by the Discayas and now in BOC’s custody, these are subject to transaction audit by the Post-Clearance Audit Group.
the tax-exempt person or entity and disposing of them shortly after, or transfers to officers, employees, relatives or closely affiliated entity without arm’s length transaction terms.
Other circumstances that may raise red flags include records showing the automobile was hardly used for official operations, prior agreements indicating intent to sell or transfer existed before or shortly after acquisition, or the entity’s nature or operations do not justify the acquisition of a luxury or high-value vehicle.
The same applies when the automobile was never registered under the tax-exempt entity or used predominantly by non-affiliated individuals. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
technology to uphold the principle that public office is a public trust.
“Puso sa serbisyo is that genuine desire to give efficient and effective service, that willingness to go the extra mile. This is demonstrated in all the mechanisms you have in place to provide a safety net for depositors,” Chicano, a lawyer, added.
The PDIC said the launch of “Pola” also came as the “Civil Service Month” drew to a close, aligning with its broader efforts to improve service delivery through digital innovation.
“We look forward to serving our clients better, faster and smarter—not just today, but for years to come,” Tan added.
Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
Toboso Mayor Richard M. Jaojoco also expressed appreciation for the new emergency vehicle, highlighting the challenges of serving a far-flung municipality with limited access to hospitals.
“This will be a huge help, especially for dialysis patients and anyone needing emergency care. We are far from major cities, so having this PTV is truly lifesaving,” Jaojoco was quoted as saying in the statement.
Since February, the Pagcor has already distributed 142 PTVs to LGUs and partner agencies nationwide, including 70 units turned over to the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office earlier this month.
kon Denali, Cadillac Escalade 2021, Maserati Levante Modena, GMC Yukon XL Denali and Cadillac Escalade ESV.
Health&Fitness
Fertility rate among Filipino women reaches an all-time low
By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes Contributor
THE Philippines experienced a rapid decline in its Total Fertility Rate (TFR), with the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) reporting a figure of 1.9 children per woman.
Jose Rimon II, founding director of the William H. Gates Sr. Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, said the figure is a historic low, falling below the replacement level of 2.1, which is the rate needed to maintain a stable population without migration.
“This demographic shift, a significant departure from the TFR of 6.0 in 1973, is the result of several intertwined factors, challenging the traditional view that fertility decline is solely tied to dramatic economic growth” said Rimon during the recent press briefing of the 10th National PHE (Population, Health and Environment) Conference titled “Equity
and Sustainability in Focus: 20 Years of Transformative PHE”
Growing awareness
WHILE socioeconomic development plays a major role, Rimon said research findings indicated that other factors have been more potent in the Philippines’ fertility transition.
“A crucial, non-economic factor is the growing awareness and belief among Filipino women that they can control their fertility. This idea has been effectively spread through various channels, including education,” Rimon said.
“Higher educational attainment for women often correlates with later marriage, a delay in first birth, and greater knowledge of and access to family planning methods. For example, the percentage of women aged 15 to 19 who have never been pregnant dropped significantly from 8.6 percent in 2017 to 5.4 percent in 2022, suggesting younger women are making different life choices,” Rimon added.
Rimon said the average age at which women enter their first marriage has
been rising, which naturally reduces the total window for childbearing.
The median age for first marriages for Filipino women is reported to be 23 years. According to Rimon, the delay is a crucial mechanism that puts downward pressure on the TFR.
Access to contraception
R IMON said greater access to contraception has improved access to family planning services, particularly after the passage of the Reproductive Health Law, have made a difference, although the modern contraceptive prevalence rate (mCPR) still has room to grow.
The use of modern contraceptive methods among currently married women aged 15 to 49 reached 42 percent in 2022. This is a significant increase from previous decades, and its impact is undeniable. However, this is still considered low compared to many other countries that have achieved low fertility, indicating that other non-contraceptive factors are at work.
Rimon said it is worth noting that a
significant portion of women still rely on traditional methods (17 percent in 2022), and there remains an unmet need for family planning among a large segment of the population, particularly unmarried but sexually active women.
Regional disparities
INTERESTINGLY, he said it’s also important to note that the national TFR of 1.9 masks significant regional disparities.
Rimon said highly urbanized areas like Metro Manila have an extremely low TFR of around 1.2, similar to many developed nations. In contrast, regions like the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) still record a much higher TFR of around 3.1 children per woman. Rimon said the decline to belowreplacement fertility is a profound demographic change that will have long-term effects on the Philippines, influencing everything from its labor force and economy to its social structures in the coming decades.
The ‘Simple Flu’ deserves serious attention–expert
By Rory Visco Contributor
THE flu season has arrived with more than just sniffles and coughs. Across the Philippines, cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) are quietly climbing, prompting schools to suspend face-to-face classes and communities to heighten precautions. What many still dismiss as a “simple flu” is, according to health experts, a public health concern that demands greater awareness and vigilance.
Recent reports show a steady increase in ILI cases across several regions, with classrooms, offices, and households feeling the impact. Some schools have declared “health breaks” to curb transmission, an action that coincided with the conduct of classroom and building inspections in light of recent earthquakes. But the primary concern, experts say, remains the surge in respiratory infections.
“It’s not something we should take lightly,” warned Dr. Rontgene Solante, past president of the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) and an infectious disease expert. “When multiple viruses are circulating, especially influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and Covid-19, even mild symptoms can spread quickly and cause complications among children and older adults.”
The reminder came during a recent health forum, “Fighting Flu Together, Protecting Us All,” organized by the PCP, where the issue of the recent rise in ILI and the
importance of prevention was discussed.
Not Just “the Flu”
INFLUENZA-like illness isn’t a single disease but a syndrome or a group of symptoms including fever, cough, and fatigue that can last up to 10 days. While influenza A and B viruses are common culprits, other pathogens such as rhinovirus, (RSV), enterovirus, and even Covid-19 can cause similar symptoms.
Dr. Solante emphasized that “flu-like” doesn’t mean “harmless.” “We tend to dismiss fever and cough as ordinary, but when several viruses are co-circulating, even a mild infection can spread rapidly and cause serious complications,” he said.
Data from the Department of Health (DOH) showed that ILI cases typically rise from September to January, months marked by cooler temperatures and increased indoor crowding. As of September 27, 2025, the DOH reported 121,716 ILI cases nationwide. While lower than last year’s 132,538, health officials warn that complacency could easily reverse that trend.
Regions 1, 2, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon (CALABARZON), Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan (MIMAROPA), and Region 5 have recorded the sharpest increases, with children aged five to 14 years old most affected. The elderly, meanwhile, face heightened risks of pneumonia and cardiovascular complications.
Vaccination: the best line of defense VACCINATION remains the most effective
shield against severe respiratory illness -
es. Dr. Solante underscored the need for timely immunization, advising Filipinos six months and older to get their annual flu shots, preferably by March or April, before infections rise later in the year. The trivalent influenza vaccine, which protects against the H1N1, H3N2, and B Victoria strains, is recommended for most individuals.
Meanwhile, seniors, immunocompromised patients, and those with underlying health conditions are encouraged to get additional protection through pneumococcal and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines to help prevent hospitalization and serious complications.
“Vaccination is not just an individual decision but a community responsibility. When more people are protected, we interrupt transmission and protect those who can’t be vaccinated.”
Public health measures that became second nature during the pandemic like mask-wearing in crowded spaces, frequent handwashing, and surface disinfection, remain effective tools against respiratory infections. Experts also cautioned against self-medicating with antibiotics, which don’t work against viruses and can contribute to antimicrobial resistance.
Instead, early consultation with healthcare providers ensures proper care and prevents complications.
A call for shared responsibility THE PCP forum underscored that fighting ILI requires both science and solidarity. While
case numbers are currently below epidemic levels, experts stressed that public cooperation through vaccination, hygiene, and responsible health behavior will determine whether those numbers stay manageable.
Dr. Nemencio Nicodemus, Jr., President of the Philippine College of Physicians, pointed out that the goal of the forum is simple: to give clear, correct, and practical information so families and communities can be protected.
“The PCP wants to answer the questions, correct the misconceptions, and share best information to avoid getting sick. The PCP will also continue to push for discussions on health that is important to the public. It is about working together to prevent diseases, and to keep our children safe and healthy,” he said.
In a statement, the PCP said that ILI is manageable when communities use layered, simple measures: vaccination, masking when appropriate, hand hygiene, ventilation, prompt isolation when ill, and early medical care for those at risk. The group also expressed its readiness to support clinicians, institutions, and the public, and likewise urges everyone to contact the local DOH office for guidance, information on local vaccination sites, or to report outbreaks.
As the rainy season continues, the message remains simple but urgent: don’t shrug off that “simple flu.” It may be common, but it’s never trivial. With caution, vaccination, and community effort, Filipinos can ensure this flu season passes without lasting harm.
Heavy Rains, Flooding Drive Surge in Flu, Leptospirosis, Dengue Cases–PhilCare
THE Philippines is facing a growing wave of health risks as heavy rains and flooding fuel a nationwide spike in influenza, leptospirosis, and dengue, diseases expected to worsen with the onset of La Niña later this year.
Drawing from internal data collected in recent months from clients across the country, leading HMO provider PhilCare warned that persistent monsoon rains, poor sanitation, and crowded public transport have created “a perfect storm” for disease transmission.
The company’s medical team reported that pneumonia and influenza-like infections are rising sharply, with leptospirosis and dengue cases climbing in tandem, showing how extreme weather is compounding public health risks.
Urban centers
PHILCARE’S surveillance data, drawn from 11,597 flu and pneumonia-related claims nationwide, shows the highest concentration of cases in urban centers. Region IV-A (CALABARZON) accounts for 32.91 percent of cases and the National Capital Region for 31.40 percent, representing nearly two-thirds
of all reported cases.
“What we’re seeing is not just a seasonal flu outbreak, but a convergence of environmental, infrastructural, and public health factors that are creating ideal conditions for multiple infections to spread simultaneously,” said Dr. Eilyn Evora-Ayuste, PhilCare Medical Director.
She explained that heavy rains and flooding since June have increased exposure to respiratory illnesses due to cooler, damp conditions, while stagnant floodwaters have created breeding grounds for mosquitoes and sources of leptospirosis infection.
This situation is expected to worsen as the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOSTPAGASA) forecasts a 70 percent chance of a La Niña event from October 2025 to February 2026. Historically, La Niña brings heavier rainfall, cooler temperatures, and spikes in respiratory and waterborne diseases.
Dependents
PHILCARE’S data also shows that 73 percent of flu and pneumonia cases involve dependents, mostly children and the elderly covered
by their principal members, highlighting the vulnerability of high-risk populations.
“Our data shows that it’s not just the workers getting sick, but their families, particularly children and elderly parents who may have weaker immune systems,” Dr. Ayuste noted. “This affects both household health and workplace productivity, as employees take time off to care for them.”
Region III accounted for 14.40 percent of cases, Region XI for 5.38 percent, and Region VI for 4.81 percent. Other regions reported lower but still significant numbers.
PhilCare’s medical team identified key drivers of the surge: poor sanitation in flood-hit areas, overcrowded public transport, limited access to preventive care, and cooler weather that allows influenza viruses to survive longer.
“When you combine crowded jeepneys and buses with people soaked from the rain and unable to practice proper hand hygiene, you create the perfect environment for respiratory viruses,” Dr. Ayuste explained. “Add to that the reality that many Filipino workers can’t afford to stay home when they feel unwell, and you have an ideal environment for community transmission.”
Midwives urged to become stronger advocates for women’s reproductive rights
By Candy P. Dalizon Contributor
Midwives across the Philippines are being urged to evolve into stronger advocates for women’s rights and reproductive choices, a key theme at the recent Midwives Summit 2025.
Dr. Bernabe Marinduque, Past President of the Philippine Society for Responsible Parenthood, highlighted the pivotal role of these healthcare professionals. He emphasized that strengthening midwives’ competencies, particularly in areas like longacting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), is essential for saving more mothers and newborns and empowering women to decide when and how many children to have.
“Midwives must evolve into strong advocates for women’s rights—the right to decide when to get pregnant and how many children to have,” said Dr. Marinduque. He added that improved education and supportive supervision would help save more mothers and newborns.
Summit Focus, Collaboration
THE Integrated Midwives Association of the Philippines (IMAP), in partnership with Organon Philippines, organized the summit, themed “Sustaining Women’s Health – Well-being in Every Community.” Held on October 7, 2025, at Seda Vertis North in Quezon City, the forum brought together midwives, government agencies, and development partners.
The event underscored the essential role of midwives in advancing Universal Health Care (UHC) and highlighted the power of collaboration between the public and private sectors to expand reproductive health access in underserved communities.
Midwives from across the country echoed the calls for empowerment.
Sandra Rivera of IMAP Region III highlighted the importance of curriculum updates and the inclusion of LARCs in practice. She shared that these methods offer reliable, reversible protection, empowering women with more choices that fit their needs and life plans. Mona Lisa Diones of FPOP Iloilo succinctly captured the sentiment: “Midwives are the backbone of reproductive health care in the Philippines.”
Representing the private sector, Organon Philippines reaffirmed its support for midwifery development.
Carole Lopez, External Affairs and Communications Lead for Organon in Singapore, Hong Kong, Indonesia,
DOH
Workplace health policies
TO address these risks, PhilCare urged corporate clients to revisit workplace health policies, offering flexible work-from-home options for symptomatic employees, improving health information dissemination, and expanding vaccination benefits to cover influenza and pneumococcal shots.
The company is also promoting its telemedicine services, DigiMed and DigiMed PLUS, as safer, cost-effective options for noncritical cases. “Telemedicine allows members to get medical advice without exposing themselves to other illnesses in clinics or hospitals, and without contributing to further spread,” Dr. Ayuste said. “This is about breaking the chain of transmission and easing pressure on healthcare facilities.”
Citing data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), PhilCare highlighted that flu vaccination can reduce ICU admissions by 82 percent, adult hospitalizations by 40 percent, and pediatric ICU admissions by 74 percent. Pneumococcal vaccines are 60 to 70 percent effective in preventing invasive pneumococcal disease.
and the Philippines, stressed the importance of partnership: “Meaningful impact is only possible when government, healthcare professionals, and the private sector work together.”
“Midwives are often the first and most trusted point of contact for women, and we’re committed to ensuring they have the right tools, training, and innovations to deliver quality care,” added Lopez.
Government, Health Sector Commitment
REPRESENTATIVES from the Department of Health (DOH), PhilHealth, the Commission on Population and Development (PopCom), the academe, and civil society also shared key updates and insights.
Health Secretary Dr. Teodoro Herbosa affirmed midwives’ central role in community care: “Behind every safe birth and every healthy mother is a competent, compassionate, and courageous midwife.” He added, “When we take care of women, they take care of everyone else, their children, their families, and the next generation of Filipinos.”
DOH also shared measures aimed at lowering maternal mortality and preventing adolescent pregnancies, including adolescent-friendly health services and the HPV vaccination program for Grade 4 girls.
PhilHealth officials outlined the YAKAP package (formerly Konsulta), which integrates primary care, cancer screening, and outpatient medicines.
Demographic opportunities
POPCOM Executive Director Dr. Lisa Bersales, for her part, emphasized that linking demographic opportunities with health investments is key to sustainable development.
“To fully benefit from our demographic opportunity, we must ensure that our people—especially women— are healthy and well-supported,” she noted, underscoring family planning as a foundation for national progress.
The summit concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthen midwifery education, supply chains, and community outreach—critical steps to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths and bring the promise of UHC closer to every Filipino woman.
“May this gathering inspire us to gain new knowledge, develop practical skills, and renew our passion. By keeping midwives at the center of UHC implementation, we move one step closer to making quality health care a reality for all,” said Patricia Gomez, IMAP Executive Director.
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
EARTHQUAKES can strike suddenly and without warning.
Recently, some parts of the Philippines—from Luzon to Mindanao—have experienced strong earthquakes.
Earthquakes can cause not only physical destruction but also psychological destruction like mass hysteria, panic attack, and anxiety.
The Department of Health (DOH) said that they are helping earthquake victims cope with the psychological effects of the said natural disaster as the mental trauma continues after the quakes. Mass hysteria, panic attack, and anxiety, the DOH said are just some of the concerns of several residents, especially the young people, of earthquake-hit areas.
Program launch WITH this, the DOH launched on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the Peer Support Groups Playbook Program at Cavite National High School. Inspired by a children’s show, where every corner sparks conversations about feelings, mental wellness, and care, the Lusog-Isip Street is made by kids, meant to gently teach the grown-ups too.
The event featured interactive booths such as the Kalma Kit Workshops, Suporta Stations, and Smile Zone. The booths were designed to promote and enhance awareness on the importance of mental health, normalize talking about emotions and struggles without fear or stigma and to promote recognition of signs of mental health conditions, as well as when to seek support.
Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz
Defense chief hails Brunei Darussalam’s contribution to Mindanao peace process
DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has hailed Brunei Darussalam’s valuable contribution in the ongoing peace process in Mindanao.
During his official visit to the Southeast Asian country, Teodoro met Minister Pehin Datu Lailaraja Maj. Gen. (retired) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof of the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defense II, as relayed by Defense spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong.
“The two officials discussed common defense interests amid evolving regional security dynamics and exchanged views on peace and stability in Southeast Asia, with particular attention to developments in the Southern Philippines,” Andolong said in a statement. He added that Teodoro “acknowledged Brunei Darussalam’s contributions to the International Monitoring Team and the Independent Decommissioning Body— both of which support peace processes in Mindanao.”
Teodoro also presented the Phil-
PARIS—In preparation for the upcoming Business Mission to the Philippines on November 3 to 5, Mouvement des Entreprises de France (MEDEF) International—a non-profit association of more than 170,000 firms in the French private business sector, held the France-Philippines Business Council Meeting last October 10 to register more French companies interested in joining next month’s business mission to the Philippines.
MEDEF International’s Deputy CEO Geraldine Lemble chaired the meeting, as she shared that the association’s interest lies in four major areas: infrastructure, energy diversification, agrifood and food security, as well as security and defense. All these sectors align with the Philippines’ priority industries outlined under the national government’s “Build Better More” program.
Recognizing the invaluable French expertise in the following sectors, the Philippines presented investment opportunities available to French investors categorized under high-value services, smart and sustainable manufacturing, sustainability-related investments, flagship infrastructure projects, shipbuilding and ship repair.
ippines’ ongoing defense modernization efforts, which are focused on safeguarding national interests, ensuring maritime security, and supporting blue economy initiatives.
Andolong said Teodoro’s visit sought to strengthen bilateral defense cooperation between the two nations and address shared regional security priorities: “[The Secretary] also proposed increased collaboration in defense training and education between our two countries. He] also extended an invitation to his counterpart, Minister Pehin Halbi, to visit the Philippines for continued discussions on expanding both bilateral and multilateral defense cooperation.”
While in Brunei Darussalam, the Defense Department’s chief also met with Philippine ambassador Marian Jocelyn Tirol-Ignacio, as well as representatives of key partner countries. These include Australia, Canada, France, Germany,
India, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
“He provided updates on regional developments and sought support for the Philippines’ bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term,” the spokesperson furthered.
A key highlight of the visit was Teodoro’s audience with Sultan
Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaula, held at the Istana Nurul Iman—the Sultan’s official residence.
“Secretary Teodoro’s official visit to Brunei Darussalam [underscored] the Philippines’ continued commitment to deepening defense relations and promoting regional peace, security, and prosperity,” Andolong said. Priam Nepomuceno/PNA
Deputy Head of Southeast Asia for the French Ministry of Economy, Finance and Industry Jérémy Mulate is in charge of improving the Philippines-France business environment by facilitating exchanges of goods and increasing French investments in the country—particularly in the sectors of transport, telecommunications, energy, agriculture and public works.
Eager to witness the wrap-up of the Philippine-European Union (EU) Free Trade Agreement’s (FTA) ongoing negotiations, Mulate pledged the French Ministry’s support toward
resolving market-access issues.
In his keynote, Ambassador Eduardo José de Vega stated that the Philippines is the right partner for MEDEF’s commercial interests, with the country’s implementation of key structural reform policies and better incentive regime for foreign investors.
De Vega emphasized that the CREATE MORE Act, Constituting Green Lanes for Strategic Investments and Investors’ Lease Act are examples of improvements which aim to attract investors and facilitate business processes.
Capitalizing on the momentum generated by the Philippines-EU FTA’s fourth round of negotiations, the country’s ambassador to France called on MEDEF to seize the opportunity of being a prime investor and entering the Philippine market, ahead of and in anticipation of the agreement’s wider benefits that will come after it takes effect.
The last MEDEF Business Mission to the Philippines was in 2022. For the November mission, the French participants will be joined by the embassy’s Philippine Trade and Investment Center Representative.
AMBASSADOR Anna Ferry led the Team Sweden delegation in Iloilo City to strengthen bilateral cooperation on economic development and explore more areas of cooperation.
Ferry said that they would like to better understand the priorities of Mayor Raisa Treñas and Iloilo City, learn areas for development or already ongoing programs including public transport, and seek ways they can support the goals’ achievements.
“Sweden is strong in various sectors. We have technology and knowledge, [and we are happy to share that knowledge in areas like…transportation, rail, upgrade of airports, as well as] areas like renewable energy, energy efficiency, water management, and water treatment,” Ferry said. “So, there are a few areas that we are looking into how we can expand our cooperation.”
Recently, Sweden—through its development finance institution Swedfund—has inked a deal to provide up to SEK6 million (roughly P30 million) through grants for feasibility studies of Metro Iloilo’s integrated public-transport system project.
“The purpose of this partnership is to provide [an exploratory study on how the city and the surrounding local government units] can have an
THE flavors, lifestyle and vibrance of the “Land Down Under” are closer than ever as “A Taste of Australia” rolls out at Landmark Supermarket Makati throughout this month.
Until October 31, every purchase of select products gives shoppers a chance to win roundtrip airfares for two to Australia on Qantas Airlines—an opportunity to explore the continent’s landscapes, cuisine and hospitality.
“A Taste… celebrates the dynamic partnership between Australia and the Philippines,” said Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown. “It’s more than great food—it’s about sharing the Australian way of life, supporting sustainable producers, and celebrating our shared love of good food and community.”
Australia is known for its clean, healthy lifestyle, commitment to quality, and environmentally sustainable choices—values now made accessible through trusted brands available at Landmark: Pure Harvest offers organic almond, oat, soy, and rice milks from one of Australia’s pioneers of plant-based living; Freedom Fresh Happy Nut delivers only the best Australian macadamia nuts in shell, and in many different flavors—perfect for breakfast or a light snack.
Cobs Popcorn—made from nonGMO or genetically modified corn and natural seasonings—are perfect for picnics, family gatherings and movie
integrated bus transit system so it will be better for all the citizens of Metro Iloilo City to commute, and it will also contribute to the goal of the city and province to have a livable city,” the ambassador said in a media interview.
The support also aimed to showcase how data-driven and efficient public-transport solutions can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate congestion, and improve accessibility in Iloilo City. Swedish engineering consultancy Sweco and Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic Development Council signed the contract last August for the former to undertake a feasibility study for this project. It will involve the phased implementation of an integrated public-transport network plan.
Visiting Iloilo City for the first time, Ferry expressed her delight in seeing and experiencing the city, which she described as a “really… livable” one.
“I see that you can walk and bike; you have open spaces, parks…and of course, I tasted fantastic food," the ambassador said.
The Swedish envoy, who also attended the first State of the City Address of Mayor Treñas, was joined by Swedfund project manager Louise Bernander. With a report by Perla Lena/PNA
nights, or a healthy low-calorie snack. Dolmio offers Italian-heritage pasta sauces for hearty meals, making busy weeknights easier.
MasterFoods elevates everyday cooking with its premium and trusted range of herbs, spices and sauces. For environmentally friendly and eco-conscious households, Earth Choice provides the highest quality Earth-safe, biodegradable, and effective cleaning products.
Yarra Valley Hilltop offers fruit juice from the harvests of the region in Victoria where the brand shares its name. The Australian showcase also features Australian favorites including Rafferty’s Garden, Smoovi, Binda Valley, Lo Bros, Leggo’s, Infuzions, Charlie’s Fine Food Co., Tucker’s, Brookfarm, Bega, Vegemite, Chef Joey D, Arnott’s, Laucke, SPC, and Red Rock Deli. These Australian brands are available exclusively at Landmark branches in Makati, Ayala Malls-Manila Bay, Trinoma, Bonifacio Global City, Alabang, and Nuvali—making it easy for families to bring home the best of Australia: from healthy and balanced meals, to ecofriendly products. The launch event was led by InnesBrown, Landmark’s President and CEO Elizabeth Cheng and Senior Vice President for Marketing Michelle Keng, with Hans Lim of NexTrade, and supported by Austrade alongside leading Australian brands’ representatives.
SECRETARY Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (left) greets His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENSE/PNA
AMBASSADOR Eduardo José de Vega (sixth from left) with MEDEF member companies’ representatives
Cebuana Lhuillier bags multiple honors at the Globee Awards for Leadership
Fresh from its Globee Golden Bridge triumph for innovation, Cebuana Lhuillier continues its global winning streak, earning four major honors at the prestigious Globee Awards for Leadership. The recognition underscores the company’s strong, forward-thinking approach across its diverse businesses.
At this year’s awards, President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier was named Maverick of the Year, while First Vice President and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Emirosco Michael Sena received Silver for Marketing Executive of the Year. PJ Lhuillier, Inc. (Cebuana Lhuillier) was also named Company of the Year –Diversified Services and won Gold for Excellence in Content Marketing for Money Guro, a social-first campaign hosted by Lhuillier himself that reflects his vision of accessible and practical financial education for all.
Speaking about the recognition, Lhuillier shared: “These awards are a
testament to the strength and passion of our people. Leadership is not just about guiding a company—it’s about creating meaningful impact for the communities we serve. I’m proud of how our teams continue to push boundaries, innovate, and stay true to our mission of financial inclusion and nation-building.”
These accolades affirm Cebuana Lhuillier’s excellence in driving growth, fostering innovation, and leading with purpose. Lhuillier’s recognition as Maverick of the Year reinforces his pivotal role in transforming Cebuana Lhuillier into a diversified
conglomerate championing financial inclusion and digital transformation in the Philippines. At the same time, Money Guro’s win highlights the company’s commitment to empowering Filipinos through engaging, practical financial education, while Sena’s award celebrates his leadership in creating marketing initiatives that deeply resonate with millions of Filipinos. With these latest distinctions, Cebuana Lhuillier once again proves that its success is driven by visionary leadership, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to empower Filipinos.
Josie Conlu: UAE’s Filipino Community Champion
FOR over 15 years, Josie Conlu has been at the forefront of serving the Filipino and wider expatriate communities in Dubai, earning recognition as the community’s most familiar and influential personality. Known for her warmth, generosity, and infectious positivity, she is also an awardwinning personality, a dedicated youth mentor, and an advocate for SMEs, empowering individuals and communities to grow, thrive, and contribute meaningfully.
Through her current flagship platform, Love Josie, Josie connects communities, fosters engagement, and celebrates Filipino culture across the UAE. The platform has become a trusted hub for information, inspiration, and connection, offering guidance and support to families, workers, and youth alike.
During her pioneering work as Project Manager for Emirates Loves under the Dubai Government Media Office, Josie helped build these into formidable community platforms with a 14-country reach and over 10 million followers, creating spaces for engagement, cultural dialogue, and authentic community connection. Her work demonstrated a keen ability to mobilize communities, foster meaningful relationships, and deliver initiatives at scale.
Through her partners Infinite Communities, The Filipino Channel, and Emirates Loves Philippines, Josie organizes landmark events that have become cultural touchstones for the Filipino community. Kalayaan, one of the largest Philippine
Independence Day celebrations outside the Philippines, attracts over 40,000 attendees annually, while Shukran, the annual Filipino Thanksgiving, celebrates the community’s contributions to the UAE while honoring the host country. These events exemplify her dedication to cultural celebration, unity, and recognition.
Her influence is rooted in deep ties with key UAE institutions and the diplomatic community. She collaborates as a trusted partner in distributing reliable information, serving as a bridge between authorities and communities to ensure initiatives are impactful and relevant.
Josie’s commitment to community development extends to education and skills empowerment. Through her partnership with Crescent Circle Training Institute, she is helping a growing number of Filipino migrant workers access scholarships and highly affordable tuition, making professional upskilling and growth achievable for hardworking Kababayans striving to improve their lives and careers in the UAE.
Beyond her community work, Josie’s unique brand universe and credibility have made her an excellent and trusted brand ambassador for sustainable brands, allowing her to authentically represent initiatives that align with her values and positively impact communities.
Reflecting on her journey, Josie shares, “I am humbled to serve my community, and every connection reminds me that leadership
is about listening, supporting, and lifting others.” Her energy, positivity, and integrity are evident in every initiative she leads, inspiring communities, celebrating heritage, and creating enduring impact across the UAE.
With her strategic vision, compassionate leadership, and unwavering dedication, Josie Conlu continues to shape Dubai’s social fabric. Her tireless efforts prove that one committed individual, grounded in humility and driven by purpose, can transform the lives of thousands and inspire generations to come.
PhilHealth Supports Cybersecurity Month: No Personal Data Collected on Social Media
THE Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) stands firm to its commitment to protect the privacy and personal data of all its members.
Its feedback channel through the Corporate Action Center does not collect personal information on official social media pages such as Facebook, X (formerly twitter), YouTube, Instagram, Tiktok and Spotify.
This commitment aligns with the broader national push for data security, a priority emphasized by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. vision of a digitally secure Philippines.
PhilHealth assures everyone that its official social media platforms are used solely for:
• Disseminating official information
• Responding to general inquiries
• Directing members to appropriate channels for specific concerns
Members are reminded to never share personal details such as full name, address, birthdate, or PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN) on social media platforms. For queries involving PIN Verification, claims status, contribution history, and other matters, members should contact PhilHealth through its official hotlines and email. These channels are designed to safely handle personal data in accordance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012.
Members may also refer to the Privacy Notice posted on PhilHealth official website at www.philhealth.gov.ph/privacy/.
PhilHealth also encourages the public to be watchful and report any suspicious activity or unofficial accounts claiming to
represent the agency. For official updates and assistance, please contact the PhilHealth Corporate Action Center through the following channels: Hotline: (02) 8662-2588; Smart: 0998-8572957/ 0968-865-4670 Globe: 0917-127-5987/ 0917-110-9812. Email: actioncenter@philhealth.gov.ph; Website: www.philhealth.gov.ph Social media pages: Facebook page: PhilHealthOfficial Youtube, X, Tiktok, & Spotify: @ teamphilhealth Instagram: @team_philhealth #Rise30 #SamasamangPagangatsaBagongPilipinas #MyPhilHealth #SagotKaNgPhilHealth Reference: Dr. Israel Francis A. Pargas 0917-8089399
SM Store Opens in La
Nissan Strengthens Presence in South Luzon with Opening of Nissan Carmona
NISSAN Philippines has officially inaugurated Nissan Carmona, the latest addition to its growing network of dealerships in the country. Strategically located within the City of Carmona, the new facility further enhances the brand’s accessibility for customers in Cavite and its surrounding areas.
Initially launched as one of two pilot Pop-up Store locations, Carmona quickly demonstrated market acceptance and performance. This success paved the way for its conversion into a full Sales, Service, and Spare Parts (3S) facility—underscoring Synergyauto Ventures Corporation’s (SVC) dedication to expanding the brand by actively exploring opportunities within its Customer Shopping Area.
Built on a 1,000-square-meter property, Nissan Carmona features the Nissan Retail Concept (NRC) Next, offering a modern showroom experience, a complete lineup of Nissan vehicles, and professional aftersales support. The dealership is also equipped with Nissan Express Service, providing fast and efficient maintenance for enhanced customer convenience.
Nissan Carmona marks the latest addition to Nissan’s growing presence in South Luzon, bringing the total number of seven dealerships in the region. Operated by Synergyauto
Ventures Corporation (SVC), Nissan Carmona represents SVC’s fourth dealership, following Nissan Alabang, Nissan Dasmariñas, and Nissan Sucat. The new site affirms Nissan and SVC’s strong partnership in delivering excellent products and services to Filipino motorists.
and
Leading the ribbon cutting ceremony were, from left, La Union Rep. Paolo Francisco Ortega; SM Executive Jonathan Ng; La Union Governor Mario Eduardo Ortgea; Bishop Daniel Oca Presto of the Diocese of San Fernando, La Union; San Fernando, La Union Mayor Hermenegildo Gualberto; San Fernando, La Union Vice Mayor Pablo Ortega; and Danika Nemis.
Josie Conlu, Community Champion and youth mentor, named among the 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf
Losing a family pet gives parents a chance to teach children about death and grieving
By Cheyanne Mumphrey The Associated Press
LOSING a pet is the first time many children encounter death. The experience can become an opportunity for profound emotional learning and influence how young people understand and process grief when they are adults, according to psychologists and pet bereavement specialists.
Parents and guardians therefore have important roles to play when a family pet dies. Along with helping children accept the painful permanence of death, caregivers can guide kids through a healthy and healing mourning process that provides a foundation for coping with an inevitable part of life.
“People are so adverse to talking about death and grief, but it is the one thing that is guaranteed: We are all going to die. We need to be open to talking about that,” said Deirdra Flavin, CEO of the National Alliance for Children’s Grief.
Here are some things to consider when talking with children about death and supporting them through pet loss.
n Children respond to death in different ways. Depending on how old they are and their individual circumstances, children vary in their ability to comprehend the concept of death. The way they process grief, how long they mourn and the impact of the loss is also unique to each child, just as it is for adults. Experts say sadness, anger and other overwhelming emotions associated with grief may be more difficult for younger children to navigate, so having support is crucial.
Psychologists and bereavement counselors say some people feel the heartbreak from a pet’s death as intensely as the loss of any other loved one, reflecting the potential depths of human-animal bonds. In the case of children, their relationship with a pet, and whether the death was sudden or not, are other factors that may shape individual responses.
Colleen Rolland, president of the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement, says parents usually know how intellectually and emotionally capable their children are of processing death.
Children as young as 4 years old might have been exposed to death through fairy tales and other stories but may struggle to understand its finality, Rolland said. Older children, who will know their loss is forever, may need more emotional support from friends and family, she said.
n Using clear language and avoiding euphemisms. Experts say it’s important to be honest and use clear language when discussing death with children. Adults often are inclined to protect children with euphemisms, such as a pet went to sleep, got lost or was put down.
“That can be alarming for children and cause a lot of confusion and fear. So, saying ‘The fish went to sleep’ might create concerns for the child when they are going to sleep,” Flavin said.
When Leah Motz’s daughter was 2 years old, she told her their 15-year-old dog, Izzy, had a “good life but his body is broken and it won’t be able to fix itself.” Motz recalled that before taking him to be euthanized near their home in Renton, Washington, she further explained they were going to “help Izzy die.”
n Support children through deep feelings. Sometimes adults have a hard time recognizing the impact that losing a pet instead of a person might have on children. Rolland says child grief tends to be trivialized in general, and that people who are very devoted to their pets can produce as much stigma as sympathy.
“But pet loss is a very real form of grief,” she said.
Raquel Halfond, a licensed clinical psychologist with the American Psychological Association, says children’s behavior often indicates how they are feeling even if they are not expressing it verbally.
“Maybe you notice your child is having more tantrums. Suddenly there’s stuff that they used to love doing, they no longer want to do,” Halfond said. Other signs to look for include uncharacteristic sadness, tears, anger and even silence, she said.
n It’s OK for adults to grieve with children. Much like they do in other situations or developmental stages, children often learn how to handle grief by watching their caregivers. The way adults respond to loss is likely to set an example for their children.
“Parents, or caregivers, must be confident in how they deal with pet loss,” Rolland said, adding that parents who are unfamiliar with grief or display unhealthy behaviors might teach children to act in the same manner.
Halfond advises parents not to hide their feelings from their children.
“If you’re feeling sad, it’s OK for the child to see you feeling sad. In fact, it could be confusing if something sad happened and they don’t see that emotion reflected in their parents,” she said.
Gratitude for the caregivers beyond our home—Part III
CONTINUING from last week, children notice kindness, and they mirror how we value those who serve. My husband is a great example of showing that acts of gratitude, whether big of small, is important. He would gather all of his old running shoes and shirts regularly and share it to either our drivers, guards or even employees in the office. Whenever there is a typhoon is his home province, he would be the first to ask what we things in the house can we send, on top of the monetary support he gives.
I saw that same spirit reflected in our daughter Meagan. In her valedictory address, she offered gratitude not only to her teachers but also to those who made her daily life at school feel like home. Below is an excerpt of her speech:
“I’d like to start by saying that I did not come out of the womb this way. I was not born an academic weapon. It has been a really difficult road to get to this point. But when my beloved Chi Chi, my auntie, is asked by her friends, ‘Oh, how does Meagan do this?’ she always says that it takes a village—because it truly did take a village.
“And how lucky I was that my village included Kuya Marlon, welcoming me with a smile and a good morning every day of school since the third grade. Another big part of the village that raised me, apart
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from the people who welcomed me every day, are the people who raised me in my second home—my teachers.”
Hearing those words as a mother, I couldn’t help but feel a lump in my throat. Gratitude, when taught early, finds its own voice. It reminded me that no achievement stands alone; it is always rooted in a web of kindness, humility and support.
When I see both my children joke around with our drivers or the guards in school, or think about how to help them, I am proud that they know respect and gratitude belong to everyone—especially to those who quietly help us in our everyday lives. It warms my heart that the granddaughter of Marcus’ yaya and our driver’s daughter were both named after Meagan. These small, meaningful connections—acts of naming, of remembering—show that gratitude, when lived, ripples outward. In today’s fast-paced world, it is easy to think that parenting is a competition—who’s more hands-on, who bakes from scratch, who manages to juggle everything with a smile. But the truth is, parenting has never been a solo act. It has always been communal. From our parents and siblings, to teachers, yayas and even neighbors, every family’s rhythm depends on teamwork. Every act of care, no matter how ordinary, becomes a small miracle that keeps the family whole.
Our helpers often carry the emotional weight of our absence. They are the ones who comfort our children when we are in meetings, who ensure the pets are fed when we are away, who quietly remember which day is P.E. day or who likes extra rice for lunch. I am not always there for all of my son’s games but our driver, whether I am present or not, always finds a corner in the court to cheer him on. Afterward, he would tell me how my son played, what moves he made, and how the game went. Hearing his account, filled with pride and excitement, makes my son feel
seen and supported. Gratitude, I’ve learned, is not a reaction to something extraordinary—it is a rhythm we choose daily. It does not need to wait for big occasions or milestones. It lives in how we call our helpers by name, how we make small talk in between tasks, or how we make sure our staff have their own moments of rest. Even saying, “Thank you for waiting” or “Ingat sa pag-uwi” are quiet affirmations that what they do matters. In many ways, these caregivers are our extensions of safety and love. They are the bridge between the spaces we cannot always fill. They help us nurture our families not because it’s part of their job description, but because they choose to care. As this Gratitude Series comes to a close, I am reminded once again that parenting is never a solo act. It is a shared mission woven through countless unseen acts of love. The yayas who calm our children, the drivers who bring them home safely, the guards who greet them with a smile—they are all part of the our support system that allows us to focus, to grow, and to be present for what matters most.
So today, I invite you to look around your home and think about your own story. Say “thank you” not just in words but with genuine attention. Listen when they speak. Ask about their families, their dreams. Let your children see you practicing gratitude not as a ritual but as a way of life.
Because one day, when our children become adults, they will carry not only our love but our example. They will remember how their parents valued the people who made life smoother, kinder, and more possible. And when they too lead families or teams of their own, they will pass forward that same humanity.
Parenting with gratitude means recognizing that every helping hand is a blessing—and that sometimes, the quietest hearts make the loudest difference.
years, 11 things to celebrate at Sunshine Place
THE Sunshine Place, the senior hub under the Felicidad T. Sy Foundation, recently celebrated 11 years of amazing student works and warm relationships with a cowboy theme. Sunshine Place is at 56 Jupiter Street, Barangay Bel Air, Makati, Metro Manila. There was lots of fun and dancing with D’Legends—the Aldeguer sisters Laly and Terri, Maribeth Bichara, and Mel Feliciano—as special guests. A powerhouse group of dance icons who lit up the floor from the 1970s to the 2000s, they brought energy, elegance, and unforgettable moves to the event.
Looking back and looking forward, the event also highlighted 11 things to celebrate at Sunshine Place:
n ART IS AGELESS. The Sunshine Place has art lessons for all ages and interests. There are Intermediate and Advanced Acrylic lessons for members, as well as Kids and Beginers Acrylic classes for their family. It’s not surprising to find members taking lessons with their children and grandchildren. There are also special workshops on Porcelain Painting, Watercolor, and Fundamentals of Drawing.
n IT’S A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN FIND YOUR VOICE. Gain more confidence with Speech Therapy lessons, and discover your inner voice with Music Therapy and, of course, Voice lessons.
n THE JOY OF DANCING. You’ll be a dancing queen with classes on Social Ballroom and Tap Dancing—both beginners and advanced. There are also special workshops on Private Ballroom and Tap Dancing as well as Chair Dancing, Yeba Indak and Dekada lessons to keep you fit and fabulous.
n THE WRITE STUFF. It’s never too early—or late—to tell your story. The Sunshine Place has special workshops in Memoir Writing and Children’s Story Writing.
n FITNESS IS FUN. Members can enroll in One-on-One Fitness Training, and in home services for Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy.
n CREATIVE HOMEWORKS. Give your home a refresh with Ikebana arrangements through Ikebana Sogetsu classes. In 1927, when everybody believed Ikebana meant following established forms, Sofu Teshigara recognized Ikebana as a
creative art and founded the Sogetsu School. Now, anyone can enjoy Sogestsu Ikebana anytime, anywhere using any material. It will suit any kind of space, Japanese or Western, and enrich its atmosphere.
n IT’S A PLACE FOR PAMPERING. After lessons, members can avail of pampering at Footzone. It’s a to-go wellness destination for traditional foot reflexology and massage therapy; or get a new look at Vivify Salon, which offers professional haircuts, styling, coloring and treatments.
n GREAT FOOD, GREAT GET-TOGETHERS. Happy Garden Café by Bizu is a cozy garden-inspired café that serves healthy food, pastries, and refreshing drinks in a relaxing, nature-filled setting—perfect for catching up with friends or unwinding after a class. For those that love fresh blooms, Mira Le Fleur on the ground floor is a charming flower shop with custom arrangements and floral styling for all occasions. n SPIRITUALITY AND SOLACE. The chapel at the Roofdeck is a place where members and their loved ones can attend
Mass on Fridays or hold their renewal of vows.
n WARM RELATIONSHIPS. Through shared interests and time together, members develop warm relationships with one another that keep them happy and healthy. They can also join in mahjong sessions, pilgrimage and cultural trips, and camaraderie is formed within the classes.
n THE SPIRIT OF SHARING. For the past eight years, exhibits are for the benefit of a chosen institution. This year, proceeds went to the Josefheim Elderly Care Community run by the Josefheim Foundation. Located in Pililla, Rizal, the Josefheim Elderly Care Community is a home for abandoned elderly. A non-profit organization, the community aims to provide love and care for the abandoned, forgotten, and marginalized members of the
FROM left: Meagan with Manang in her high school; Meagan giving her valedictory address; Me and Mang Mako, our school janitor in St. Jude when I was in preschool, when we met each other again recently.
THE Sunshine Place Team led by Uychaco (second from left) and center head Gilda Reyes (second from right) with special guests (from left): Mel Feliciano, Laly and Terrie Aldeguer, and Maribeth Bichara. Also in photo are operations manager Che de Vega, and marketing manager Yla Dela Rosa.
SUNSHINE Place president Lizanne Uychaco with long time member Harvey Chua.
Tolentino pushes for PHL AYG in ’31
PSC’s Batang Pinoy GenSan edition draws Maya support
MAYA is extending its partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC)
to connect with young athletes and help them take their first steps toward digital financial access.” Maya is the country’s leading all-in-one fintech platform and No. 1 digital bank. The partnership builds on PSC and Maya’s earlier collaboration to digitalize allowance distribution for national athletes—a significant upgrade from traditional manual disbursements. By moving to digital platforms, athletes no longer have to line up for their allowances, making the process faster, more secure, and laying the groundwork for future integrations to channel more athlete support.
It also gives athletes a guided introduction to managing their own financial accounts, supporting PSC’s
“We’re grateful for Maya’s continued support for Batang Pinoy,” PSC chairman John Patrick Gregorio said. “By enabling the electronic distribution of allowances, Maya helps us provide our athletes and delegates with a faster, safer and more convenient experience—so they can focus on what matters most: competing and growing.” Launched in 1998, this year’s edition of the Batang Pinoy in General Santos City is set from October 25 to 30 and brings together more than 15,000 athletes aged 17 and under competing in 27 sports.
Finnegan and co. miss finals, Yulo last man standing
PBy Josef Ramos
ARIS Olympian Aleah
Finnegan missed the grade in the women’s all-around on Wednesday leaving Carlos Yulo the last man standing for the Philippines in the 53rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Jakarta. Finnegan was No. 22 entering the all-around final but dropped to 33rd overall with a score of 49.299 points to miss the top 24 cut for Thursday’s gold medal round.
Yulo, 25, is now bracing for a heavy final schedule in Friday’s men’s floor exercise, where he placed second overall in qualification, and Saturday’s vault, which he topped the qualification.
Worlds first-timer Juancho Miguel Besana finished 39th in the men’s individual all-around qualification round where also only the top 24 athletes will make it to the final.
Instructions from Dawn Alas Pilipinas libero Dawn MacandiliCatindig shouts instructions to her teams during short-handed Cignal’s 25-17, 25-22, 25-21 upset of PLDT on Tuesday in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Cignal improves to 1-2 won-lost, while the loss was PLDT’s first in three matches—and more significantly, its first in 15 outings from the previous conferences. PVL IMAGES
The number 69
THE first round of the men’s basketball tournament of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) is over. The second round begins.
The last game of the round—a rematch between last season’s finals protagonists, the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons and the De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Archers—was another classic.
Fans have come to expect the finest quality contest between these two teams of late, as they consistently take
MBy Aldrin Quinto
ANAMA—Philippine Olympic Committee (POC)
president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino looks to bring more young Filipinos to the continental level as he targets the country hosting the Asian Youth Games (AYG) sooner or later.
The key, Tolentino says, is government support.
“If the Philippine government will back me up,” Tolentino said.
Speaking after the Olympic Council of Asia Executive Board meeting at the Art Hotel and Resort in Bahrain, Tolentino revealed the Philippines has a chance to host the AYG after it was decided the competition for top junior athletes in the continent will be held biennially and no longer after every four years.
After the Bahrain AYG 2025, which formally opened on Wednesday night here at the Exhibition World Bahrain in Manama, the games are expected to be staged in Uzbekistan in 2029.
The change from quadrennial to biennial means the AYG
Tolentino, an OCA Executive Board member, is again calling for teamwork at home, saying it will provide many young Filipino athletes with a chance to reach the bigger stage.
“Our young athletes in the Palarong Pambansa and Batang Pinoy, pure grassroots, will have a goal, the AYG,” Tolentino said. “Actually, I was given the heads up not one, but two events—the AYG and the Asian Beach Games.”
“It’s up to the government though,” he said.
The 2025 AYG in Bahrain officially opened on Wednesday evening, marking the start of the major youth sporting spectacle featuring over 4,300 athletes competing across 253 events in 24 sports.
The Philippines has a 141-strong delegation competing in volleyball, teqball, golf, triathlon, mixed martial arts, taekwondo, muay, athletics, boxing, cycling, weightlifting, table tennis, badminton, wrestling, swimming, jiujitsu, and kurash.
Kram Airam Carpio delivered the first gold for the Philippines, winning the Pencak Silat girls’ 51–55 kg division with a 33–19 victory over Indonesia’s Qiken Dwi Tata Olifia late Monday.
Filipino boxers ready for action
BANNERED by rising star Leo Mhar Lobrido, Filipino boxers set out for their inaugural campaign starting Thursday at Hall 9 of the Exhibition World Bahrain.
The drawing of lots was set Wednesday night. Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines executive
Ivan Cruz wound up 66th overall in vault with 12.00, while Justine Ace de Leon landed on 45th in the rings— only the top eight per apparatus will qualify for the final.
Haylee Garcia, 16, finished 44th in the women’s individual all-around event with 45.098, Emma Malabuyo took the 24th spot in floor exercise (12.300) and 26th in balance beam (12.00) and Yulo’s younger sister Elaiza was 79th in uneven bars and 32nd in vault with 11.40.
Yulo’s under the tutelage of Australian Nedal Alyousef and Filipino Aldrin Casteñeda and both coaches believe he’ll duplicate the two gold medals in the same events he won in Paris last year.
“I saw both Carlos Yulo and Jake Jarman in Paris and I believe our athlete has the cleaner routine,” Alyousef said in a message relayed by Gymnastics Association of the Philippines president Cynthia Carrion-Norton.
CARLOS YULO in action during the qualifiers of the men’s floor exercise. AP
their newfound rivalry to the next level.
Tracing its beginning to the days when Ben Mbala was still a Green Archer and the Fighting Maroons were just beginning to find out what a winning culture means, UP-DLSU games have been intense and tightly fought.
Close games, come from behind wins, heartbreaking outcomes sometimes embellished with bench intramurals, have given Maroon and Green encounters the drama and excitement that have fully engaged their respective faithfuls in their rivalry.
Last Sunday, October 19’s game was a confirmation of all that rabid competition.
Packing a crowd of 11,654, the Smart Araneta Coliseum was filled with people wearing the competing school colors— although many also chose to wear white to make a political statement—white was the color of the day for both La Sallians and UP peeps who wanted to make a joint stand against corruption and to demand accountability for the corrupt.
The cheers and yells caused Apple watches to alert their wearers about dangerously high decibel levels that could potentially harm their hearing.
All the roar and thunder of the warring crowds was, however, silenced for a while when the UP Pep Squad and the De La Salle Animo Squad came together on the floor to do a joint “anti-corruption” yell, spreading a mantle of goodwill
director Marcus Jarwin Manalo
Avaricio looks unbeatable with 8-shot lead in Apo
RMED with a hot start, steely
Afocus and a mission to erase the painful memory of a missed opportunity just last week, Chanelle Avaricio roared into a commanding lead at the International Container Terminal Services Inc. Apo Golf Classic.
And this time, she’s intent on finishing what she started.
Determined to atone for her late-round meltdown at Del Monte where a five-shot lead dissolved into a heartbreaking playoff loss to Sarah Ababa, Avaricio delivered a masterclass in course management and clutch execution at the demanding Apo Golf and Country Club in Davao on Wednesday.
She fired a superb four-under 68, punctuated by an eagle-2 on the very first hole, to break away from the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour field with a whopping eight-shot lead at the halfway mark.
“My short game really carried me today, especially the putting,” said Avaricio, whose four-under 140 total kept her safely ahead of Princess Superal, who pooled a 148 after a 73.
Despite holding a commanding lead, Avaricio isn’t taking anything for
granted—especially after struggling to close out strongly at Del Monte.
“No changes, but I’ll play my best and hope for the best,” said Avaricio, who dominated the Forest Hills leg last June.
“It’s the same situation as last week. I know I have a good chance, but anything can happen,” she said.
“All I can do is focus on playing well tomorrow.”
Avaricio wasted no time setting the tone at Apo—on the par-four opening hole, she ripped a solid drive down the
fairway before pulling out her trusted 50-degree wedge from 100 yards. She watched as the ball tracked the flag and disappeared into the cup for a spectacular eagle-2—a shot that seemed to exorcise the ghosts of last week.
“I hit it straight, and it went in,” she recalled. She followed it up with a birdie on the par-three No. 4 and, despite a bogey on the next hole, stayed steady through the treacherous middle stretch of the course. She later added birdies on Nos. 14 and 17 to complete a clinical 34-34 round—one that left the rest of the field reeling.
While Avaricio surged, others struggled to keep pace as local favorite Mafy Singson, who started the day just a stroke of Avaricio, stumbled badly with a shocking 79 that dropped her 12 shots back at 152.
Superal emerged as the closest challenger after a one-over card, but her 148 aggregate still leaves her trailing by a daunting margin.
Florence Bisera (71), Rev Alcantara (74), Chihiro Ikeda (74) and Daniella Uy (75) matched 149s—already nine strokes adrift. Ababa, last week’s surprise winner, recovered with a 74 after a first-round 78 but is still 12 shots behind at 152, alongside Singson.
that united the Taft and Diliman sides for a while.
But that didn’t last long. The second half began and the hostilities not just continued—they escalated and it was a tightly fought game all the way till the final buzzer, with scores as dangerously close as they could be and the balance of power tipping either way with every possession.
La Salle, playing without key players Mason Amos and Kean Baclaan on paper seemed disadvantaged in the showdown.
But no, the Green Archers played hungrier, executed better, particularly in the paint, and went home with the win, 72-69.
It was a superb game with high level entertainment, agonizing suspense and supreme unpredictability right down the wire—Green Archer-Fighting Maroons encounters are the game equivalent of nail-biting, heart pounding, edge-of-your-seat movies.
Being right there among the faceless crowd watching the game, I pondered the end score for a while and started to wonder. What is it about the Fighting Maroons and the score 72-69? Or just the number 69, for that matter.
If you haven’t noticed it before, let me tell you why those numbers set off an alarm bell in my head. Remember the JD Cagulangan last-second heave in overtime of Game 3 of the Ateneo-UP championship game in Season 84, May 2022? The final score that time was 72-69, in favor of the Fighting Maroons on the very last day of the “bubble season.”
When Season 85 opened on October 1, 2022, in the UAAP’s first and so far only two seasons-in-one-year staging due to the pandemic, UP and La Salle immediately collided on the very first day. Guess what the end score was—72-69, again in favor of the Diliman squad. Then last Sunday again, the same numbers showed up on the scoreboard of UP vs La
said the six-member Filipino team is ready should any of them be drawn on opening day. “They all should do well,” said Manalo shortly after the boxing delegation arrived for the third edition of the quadrennial showcase late Tuesday night, following a 10-hour journey from Manila.
CHANELLE AVARICIO delivers a masterclass act at the Apo Golf and Country Club. ROY DOMINGO
