THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it is steering exporters toward other markets such as Europe, Asean and the Middle East as it expects the full effect of the Washington-imposed tariff to begin to reflect in the August export data onwards.
In a statement sent to reporters on Thursday, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque said: “The surge in US-bound shipments in recent months was largely driven by frontloading activities/accelerated shipments ahead of the implementation of the 19-percent reciprocal tariff by the US, which took effect in August.”
The Philippines’s Trade chief said
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
@reine_alberto
AS the government’s outstanding debt hit a new record high of P17.563 trillion as of end-July, with expectations of easing the burden by yearend, corruption over efficiency in public spending clouds genuine debt reduction.
By Jonathan L. Mayuga and Samuel P. Medenilla
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed on Thursday Republic Act (RA) 12253 or the Enhanced Fiscal Regime for Large-Scale Metallic Mining Act, a measure which Malacanang said would ensure an equitable share of mining revenues for the government. Representatives from two mining groups representing the industry’s big players in mining witnessed the signing. The government is expected to generate an average of P6 billion per year until 2029, while providing better protection to the environment and miningaffected communities. It is also expected to help generate more jobs by attracting more responsible mining firms in the country.
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this “strategic” move by exporters was aimed to mitigate the immediate impact of the tariff hike.
“As such, we anticipate that the full effect of the tariff will begin to reflect in the August export data onwards,” Roque said.
With the trade data and export performance in the coming months reflecting such impact, the agency, she said, is “intensifying” its support programs to help businesses stay competitive and find new markets.
In particular, she said DTI is “actively guiding” exporters to explore new markets like the EU, UK and Middle East.
“Projects like READY4EU offer tailored support to food exporters entering Europe, while digital tools like the FTA Information Portal help businesses take advan-
tage of lower tariffs under trade agreements,” Roque said. Apart from this, DTI is helping exporters connect with buyers through business matching activities and hands-on assistance with export documents and customs procedures.
In its efforts to boost the capabilities of small businesses, the Trade department has been conducting “nationwide learning sessions and offering coaching” on packaging, marketing, and international standards.
Last week, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the country’s outbound shipments amounted to $48.62 billion in the January to July 2025 period, up 13.9 percent from the $42.69 billion in the seven-month period in 2024.
Economists explained this increase thus: the tariff impact had not yet been felt, and traders were frontloading shipments. The United States remained the Philippines’s top export market, with $7.76 billion or 16-percent share. This was followed by Hong Kong, as the Philippines earned $6.83 billion in exports or 14.1-percent share; Japan, $6.80 billion or 14-percent share.
A month before the implementation of the 19-percent country reciprocal tariff imposed by Washington on Philippine exports, exports to Japan posted the fastest growth rate, or by 14.9 percent; followed by Hong Kong, 14.1 percent and the United States by 12.7 percent. Explaining this trend, Former
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) is seeking a P197.33-billion budget under the 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP), higher than this year’s allocation but barely a third of the P531.74billion the agency had proposed for its transport infrastructure agenda.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez presented to the House Committee on Appropriations the 2026 NEP of the agency, noting that it is almost a tenth higher than the 2025 NEP of P180.94 billion and more than double the P87.99 billion approved under last year’s General Appropriations Act.
About three-fourths of the budget, or P149.64 billion, is earmarked for capital outlay. The central office stands to receive P149.87 billion, followed by the Philippine Coast Guard with P35.40 billion, the Land Transportation Office with P7.20 billion, and the Office for Transportation Security with P1.78 billion.
However, the proposed budget remains almost two-thirds lower than what the DOTr had pitched. Only 32 of the 166 projects submitted by the agency made it into the NEP, slashing allocations across railways, roads, aviation, and maritime programs. The deepest cuts fall on the railway sector, where proposed allocations were reduced from a proposed
P283.64 billion to just P122.26 billion. The Metro Manila Subway Project alone lost more than P21 billion, while the North-South Commuter Railway was pared down by nearly P30 billion.
Entire projects such as the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 4 and the Philippine National Railways (PNR) South Haul were dropped from the spending plan, along with structural rehabilitation works for both Light Rail Transit (LRT) Lines. Road-based initiatives also suffered steep reductions. From an initial P37.31 billion, the sector will get only P4.97 billion, leaving the Davao Public Transport Modernization and Cebu Bus Rapid Transit projects with significantly smaller allocations. The govern-
ment’s fuel subsidy program for drivers and operators was struck out altogether.
The aviation budget proposal was also reduced from P19.83 billion to P6.17 billion. The New Dumaguete Airport Development Project lost over P3 billion, while planned upgrades for the Laoag, Bicol, and Tacloban airports were either trimmed or removed.
Lastly, the maritime sector’s proposed budget was cut from P25.45 billion to P8.51 billion, effectively excluding the planned acquisition of 40 fast patrol craft, as well as the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement and Maritime Safety Enhancement projects. Numerous locally funded port modernization
HONORING HEROES Baguio
in
Global rice glut to keep prices low in ’26
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
GLOBAL
rice supply glut, driven by India’s bumper crop and bulging stockpile, will keep international prices of the staple grain low into 2026, according to a study.
A study by International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Senior Scientist Alisher Mirzabaev and The Rice Trader CEO Jeremy Zwinger said India’s government-held rice stocks reached 37.9 million metric tons (MMT) by August, owing to record harvests and minimum support price (MSP) procurement.
Garments…
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“With stocks at record highs and a new bumper harvest coming, potentially exceeding domestic utilization by 30 MMT, the oversupply situation in India will have massive global effects on the rice industry.”
Last March, India lifted the last rice export ban following a series of export restrictions from 2022 to
organize. And therefore, we need our minimum wage system,” he said.
Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino President Luke Espiritu echoed the point, saying the absence of unions in
2023. This resulted in a surge of Indian rice onto world markets, with projected exports of around 23.5 MMT in 2025, according to the study.
India alone shipped over 14.7 MMT until the end of August 2025, which dwarfed Thailand’s 4.7 MMT and Vietnam’s 6 MMT in the same period, thus “dramatically” softened global prices.
With India returning as a “leading pricesetter,” the study noted that global rice prices hit multi-year lows in 2025.
“Importing countries, especially in Africa and Asia, benefited from cheaper rice, easing food import bills,” the study said.
“But rival exporters saw their competitive position erode. The price drop has squeezed farmer margins in many Asian countries.”
The study noted that high-level stocks, strained warehousing capacities, and incoming new harvest in India will put further downward pressure on global rice prices.
most workplaces forces workers to rely on government-mandated increases.
“Because there are no unions that can negotiate higher wages than the minimum, the pressure is upon the
Under the new law, mining companies that operate within the government’s designated mining sites will only pay a royalty of 5 percent of their gross output.
“Globally, rice supplies are abundant, and prices are expected to stay low into 2026, barring a major shock,” the study said.
“The world rice stock-to-use ratio now exceeds 34 percent, one of the highest levels in modern times. Today’s level signifies extreme oversupply.”
It added that with world production at record highs (2024/25 output around 541 MMT) and carry-out stocks swelling, “the market has a large cushion.”
Net importers like the Philippines and Indonesia have also scaled back purchases to protect their domestic producers, and after having built reserves during earlier periods.
“This weak demand further dampens any short-term price rally,” the study said.
government now to align the minimum wage with the cost of living,” Espiritu said.
Figures from the Philippine Statistics Authority show that as of August 2022, only 4.5 percent—or 1,626 out of 36,342—of establishments with at least 20 workers had registered unions.
Just 4 percent, or 1,444, had active collective bargaining agreements.
Union density stood at 6.5 percent, or around 345,574 workers out of 5.35 million.
Kilusang Mayo Uno Secretary General Jerome Adonis said labor groups are willing to negotiate, but stressed that legislated wage hikes should at least move toward the family living wage.
“If it cannot be matched yet, then any amount that gets us closer will do,” he said.
Independent think tank IBON Foundation has pegged the average family living wage at P1,218 for all regions nationwide as of July.
Currently, NCR has the highest minimum wage at P695, while the lowest is P411 in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
The Senate Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Resources Development said it will form a technical working group to discuss wage-setting proposals, with participation from the Department of Labor and Employment; Department of Trade and Industry; Department of Economy, Planning, and Development; and employers’ and workers’ groups.
The wage hike debate is not new. In the 19th Congress, both chambers approved their own versions of a legislated increase—P200 in the House and P100 in the Senate—but the bill died after lawmakers failed to convene a bicameral conference committee before adjourning sine die last June.
Those operating outside mineral reservations, will be slapped with a five-tier, margin-based royalty at rates ranging from 1 percent to 5 percent on their income. A minimum royalty rate of 0.1 percent will be implemented for metals mined below the margin threshold.
Additional taxes will be imposed on a mining company if its profit margin exceeds 30 percent.
Per Department of Finance (DOF) estimates, the government could collect P6.26 billion per year or a total of P25.08 billion from 2026 to 2029 under the new implified and rationalized fiscal regime. Related story in B3 Banking.
Building blocks AT the signing of RA 12253, Marcos said its passage is timely, as global demand for minerals surges since it is used on technologies which are the “building blocks of the green and digital economy” such as batteries, solar panels, and other vital components of clean energy.
He said it will allow the Philippines to help meet the demand, while ensuring it benefits Filipinos and limits the impact of mining on the environment.
“If the world needs these minerals, then we must make sure that our mining infrastructure is robust and that Filipinos, above all, benefit from it,” Marcos said.
“Gone are the days when a mining contractor can bury its profits beneath the weight of losses. No longer can we use the one project’s failure to conceal another project’s success,” Marcos explained.
Responsible use
TO ensure concerned communities benefit from mining operations in their areas, their local governments will get 40 percent from the gross collections from the excise taxes on mineral products.
Meanwhile, 10 percent of the royalties from government-designated mining sites will go to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau and the Metals Industry Research and Development Center.
“This is done to guarantee that part of the revenues is reinvested in exploration, in research, above all, environmental protection and sustainable practices,” Marcos said.
The President hopes the new law will allow the Philippines to maximize the benefits from its mineral resources.
“Minerals are finite. Once extracted, they are gone forever. But if we use them wisely—tax them fairly, protect our environment as we mine, and ensure that revenues return to the people—then their value will outlive all of us,” Marcos said.
Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (Sapiea) Frederick D. Go de -
scribed RA 12253 as a significant milestone which modernized the local mining industry encouraging more firms to invest in the country, translating to more jobs.
“Through this law, we aim to foster inclusive prosperity-ensuring that our countrymen, our communities, and our future generations benefit from the responsible use of our mineral resources,” he said.
Industry groups react THE Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) and Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) said the new law will make the Philippines more competitive and attractive to investors.
COMP said: “We recognize that increased taxation is inevitable. We also see the importance of what this law provides: predictability and consistency in the fiscal framework, which are essential for long-term planning and investment.”
COMP said the new tax regime aligns the Philippines with global mining jurisdictions, making it more competitive and attractive to investors, especially at a time when the demand for critical minerals is increasing worldwide.
“The law establishes a framework that provides government and host communities with a fair share of revenues during periods of high commodity prices, while allowing for reasonable tax relief for mining companies when prices are low,” COMP explain
Clarity on tax policy, revenue sharing MEANWHILE , in a message to the BusinessMirror, PNIA President Dante Bravo said the new law “puts clarity on the tax policy and revenue share of the government on mining.”
He added that even small mining companies engaged in large-scale operations will be able to cope and survive the new tax regime because the additional taxes are based on net income, not based on gross sales.
ATM: A win for mining, great loss for Filipinos JAYBEE GARGANERA , national coordinator of Alyansa Tigil Mina expressed dismay over the swift passage of the law which he said heavily favors mining corporations and lowers the government’s potential revenues.
Garganera lamented that advocacy groups were not even consulted on the proposed provisions of both bills in the House of Representatives and the Senate when they were passed.
Garganera further criticized the proposed export ban on raw mineral ores. “The 5-year window before the ban on the export of raw nickel ores will only make miners fast-track their extraction, which will result in more mining projects, more destruction of our ecosystems, and more displacement of affected communities, but with reduced taxes and revenues from mining.”
“This is a win for the mining industry, but a great loss for Filipinos, Philippine biodiversity, and the country’s economy,” he concluded.
Committee will implement stricter approval process for such public works.
“This is in accordance with the order of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to end corrupt practices in the construction of flood control projects under a stricter approval process approved by the Economy and Development Council Investment Coordination Committee on August 12,” Castro said. In a related development, the Palace official called on the public not to resort to violence in holding accountable the contractors involved in problematic FCPs. This after a group of disaster survivors at environmental groups attacked the office of one of the contractors facing a probe for possible defective FCPs, St. Gerard Construction.
“The President would not want this [violent actions] to happen. As the President said, we are following due process,” Castro said. Samuel P. Medenilla
Discaya’s firms bag 13 projects in Las Pinas city
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
AMID the investigation into controversial flood control projects, a member of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations revealed on Thursday that four construction companies linked to embattled contractor Sarah Discaya had secured 13 flood control and infrastructure projects in Las Piñas over the past three years, amounting to about P452 million, with one project showing only 26.41 percent completion.
Las Piñas Rep. Mark Anthony Santos slammed Discaya’s denial of involvement, citing Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) records that showed her flagship company, Alpha & Omega General Construction and Development Corp., left its P18.9million flood control project in barangay Zapote only 26.41 percent complete by the August 2025 deadline.
Apart from Alpha & Omega, Discaya also owns St. Matthew General Contractor and Development Corp., Amethyst Horizon
Palace on Imee: Recalibrate crystal ball
MALACAÑANG on Thursday dismissed as a mere “wild imagination” the accusation of Sen. Imee Marcos that the Marcos administration is hatching a plan to jail Vice President Sara Duterte and her allies before the 2028 presidential race.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Duterte and her political allies, including the senator, need not worry because there is no such plan.
“They are just creations of fertile and wild imagination,” Castro said.
Duterte earlier said the Marcos administration seems to be “orchestrating something behind the scenes,” while the public attention is
focused on the ongoing investigation into questionable flood control projects.
Imee, on the other hand, claimed that a new strategy was adopted to “get rid” of Duterte before 2028.
She said Justice Secretary Justice Crispin Remulla’s bid for Ombudsman post is part of the current administration’s “Plan C,” after failed attempts to unseat Duterte through a people’s initiative to amend the Constitution and impeachment.
On Wednesday, Castro told the presidential sister to “recalibrate her crystal ball” so she picks up stories with evidence, not just rumors. PNA
Builders and General Contractor, and Great Pacific Builders and General Contractor Inc., which all bagged multiple multi-million peso projects in Las Piñas between 2022 and 2025.
During a Senate blue-ribbon committee hearing, Discaya admitted she owned nine construction firms in total. President
Marcos earlier noted that Alpha & Omega was among the country’s top 15 contractors for flood control projects, securing about P100 billion out of the P545.6 billion budget allocated from July 2022
to May 2025.
Santos revealed that the DPWH Las Piñas–Muntinlupa District Engineering Office, then led by embattled District Engineer Isabelo Baleros, awarded Alpha & Omega a P49-million flood control project in Mahabang Ilog, barangay Zapote, in February 2022. Just a month later, the same office granted another P49-million flood control contract in Mahabang Tubig, Zapote, to St. Matthew General Contractor.
Santos said the pattern continued in 2023, with Great Pacific
Builders bagging a P26.3-million flood control project along Manarigo Creek in February, followed in March by a P49-million contract for Paliwas Creek awarded to Amethyst Horizon Builders. Quoting Public Works Undersecretary for Technical Services
Ador Canlas, Santos said that Discaya’s companies secured nine additional infrastructure contracts in Las Piñas. Among these were the P9.7-million road rehabilitation in barangay Zapote, the P6.8-million road rehabilitation in barangay Talon 5, and the P9.8-million re -
habilitation of Las Piñas Elementary School–Central—all awarded to Amethyst Horizon Builders in 2022 under Baleros’s watch. In 2023, Great Pacific Builders clinched a P4.8-million school building rehab in Barangay Talon 1, followed in 2024 by two P14.4million multi-purpose building projects in Barangays Manuyo Dos and Pulang Lupa Dos.
“Records speak louder than claims. The Discayas’ repeated awards in Las Piñas are documented, and they cannot hide behind denials or excuses,” Santos said.
Solons: Respect process in choosing Ombudsman
LAWMAKERS on Thursday called on fellow public servants and the public to respect the constitutional process in appointing the next Ombudsman, stressing that the choice belongs to the President and must be guided by merit, integrity, and competence rather than politics.
Las Piñas City Rep. Mark Santos and Deputy Speaker Jefferson Khonghun emphasized that the Ombudsman’s mandate is too important to be clouded by partisan maneuvering.
The two lawmakers made the appeal amid reports of opposition to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla’s possible appointment to the post.
“The Ombudsman is the people’s shield
against corruption and abuse. This position requires independence, competence, and integrity.
“These are the standards by which the President must make his choice—not politics,” Santos added.
Santos cited Remulla’s long record of public service, legal expertise, and governance experience as qualifications that make him fit to lead the anti-graft office. Before heading the Department of Justice, Remulla served as a three-term Cavite congressman and as governor, where he championed legislation on disaster resilience, digital governance, and anti-red tape reforms.
Santos assured that the House of Representatives will work closely with
the Ombudsman’s office, whoever is appointed, to strengthen laws that enhance transparency, accountability, and good governance.
“We owe it to the Filipino people to support the Ombudsman in fighting corruption. Let us not politicize this process—our focus should be on ensuring that the Office remains strong, independent, and truly for the people,” Santos said.
For his part, Khonghun, who represents Zambales, urged stakeholders to allow due process, emphasizing that the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) is tasked with screening nominees for judicial and quasi-judicial posts.
“The JBC’s job is to weigh everything:
experience, integrity, and service. If there are complaints, they should be looked into. But it doesn’t mean a person is automatically guilty just because a case was filed,” he explained, adding that the mere existence of complaints should not be used to prematurely disqualify a candidate.
The Deputy Speaker also warned against allowing politics to dictate the outcome of the selection process, saying that doing so would only erode public trust in democratic institutions. He appealed for sobriety in the discussions and asked stakeholders to respect due process.
See “Ombudsman,” A7
September 5, 2025
Lacson pushes complete PCAB overhaul
ABy Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
COMPLETE overhaul of the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB), not just the resignation of key officials, is imperative at this time, in the wake of its role in the corruption mess involving failed or substandard and ghost flood control projects.
This was the reaction of Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson to the reported resignation of PCAB executive director Herbert Matienzo, even as he scored the worsening stench of
corruption in government.
“A complete overhaul of the PCAB board is in order at this point. The PCAB has been a lowkey yet corrupt-ridden regulatory body which, in tandem with the Department of Public Works and Highways, has methodically punched us in the gut, providing the first of a one-two punch thus knocking out our hard earned tax payments,” Lacson said. Earlier, Lacson had bared several dubious practices at the PCAB, including accreditation for sale, the conflict of interest of at least two of its board members who own
construction companies bagging contracts from the government, and alleged extortion victimizing contractors.
President Marcos last week ordered an investigation into the alleged accreditation-for-sale activities involving the PCAB.
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque placed the Construction Industry Association of the Philippines (Ciap) and its implementing boards, including the PCAB, under her direct supervision. On Thursday morning, she was quoted in media reports as saying that Malinzo resigned owing to supposed
“personal reasons.”
Meanwhile, Lacson scored the stench of corruption in government agencies, which he said has gotten worse due to the collusion of the DPWH and members of Congress.
“Nakakapagod: When I left the Senate three years ago, the stench of corruption was limited to some graft-ridden agencies known for the malevolent execution of their projects. Now, the stench has penetrated the corridors of the National Expenditure Program through insertions with DPWH and Congress colluding,” he said in a post on X.
Depdev: Living wage adoption would hinge on public services
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
ADOPTING a living wage framework in the Philippines would depend not only on higher pay levels but also on greater public provision of essential goods and services, according to the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (Depdev). Economic Planning Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon told the BusinessMirror that a living wage will also depend on the ability of the private sector to increase wages and for Filipinos to strive for better pay.
“Our interpretation is you have to empower people so that they get to enjoy the living wage,” Edillon said in a chance interview, speaking partly in Filipino, in the sidelines of the Cabinet-level Development Budget Coordination Committee’s briefing for the Senate Committee on Finance.
“In this case, it does not need to be fully monetized,” she added. She explained that the shift would involve enhancing workers’ employability to help them move up the wage structure while ensuring that basic needs are covered by publicly funded programs.
“It’s really about making sure that we improve the employability of workers so they don’t stay at the bottom…including those publicly provided goods and services,” she said in a mix of English and Filipino.
Unlike the minimum wage, which sets a mandatory pay floor, the living wage refers to the income level that allows families to live decently with access to education, health care, transport, and other needs.
Edillon described it as “aspirational,” shaped by both household earnings and state support.
The issue was raised during Senate budget deliberations on Monday, when Sen. Paolo Benigno Aquino pressed economic managers to present estimates of the living wage in line with the Constitution’s mandate to ensure equitable opportunities for all Filipinos.
“Our macro [numbers] look good and that is what we always discuss in the DBCC [Development Budget Coordination Committee],” Aquino said in a mix of English and Filipino.
“But the ordinary Filipino does not really feel the GDP [gross domestic product]. What they feel is their ability to provide for the needs of their family,” he added.
On August 8, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the economy expanded by 5.5 percent in the second quarter of 2025, bringing first-half growth to 5.4 percent.
This was faster than the 5.38 percent posted in the same period last year but slower than the 6.5 percent expansion recorded in the second quarter of 2024.
Inflation, meanwhile, eased to 0.9 percent in July, down from 1.4 percent in June and 4.4 percent a year earlier. This marked the slowest pace since October 2019, before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Meanwhile, data from the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) showed unemployment rose by 20.3 percent or 329,000 year-onyear to 1.95 million in June 2025 from 1.62 million in June 2024.
On average, 1.95 million Filipinos were unemployed in the first half of the year, a decline of 60,000 from 2.01 million in the same period of 2024.
Under its targets, the DBCC is aiming for GDP growth of 6.5 to 8 percent in 2025, with inflation within the 2 to 4 percent range.
For the unemployment rate, it is expected to settle between 4.8 and
5.1 percent, while the underemployment rate is projected at 13 to 14 percent, from a baseline of 13.3 percent in 2024.
Aquino asked Depdev to compute living wages across regions and compare them with existing minimum wages, alongside the impact of public benefits such as free education and health care.
Data from the Department of Labor and Employment show that the minimum wage is highest in the National Capital Region (NCR) at P695, while the lowest is in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) at P411.
Edillon confirmed that Depdev has not yet determined a peso amount for the living wage. She said the agency is preparing an updated assessment, building on a 2016 exercise under the AmBisyon Natin 2040 program, which simulated how access to free education, better transport, and cheaper borrowing could reduce household expenses.
“So we will make [an analysis],” Edillon said in Filipino. She added that the results will guide policymakers in evaluating how far households remain from a living wage.
DA asks Congress to pass bill on farm-to-market roads
TSafeguard evidence
SEN. Erwin Tulfo urged those investigating the flood projects corruption ensure that “all evidence regarding suspected anomalies in flood control projects be safeguarded.”
It also doesn’t mean that executives who resigned are already off the hook, Tulfo added. “They should continue to be investigated even if they have resigned.”
On the other hand, he said, partly in Filipino, “this could be an opportunity to encourage those who were dismissed or resigned to speak up and evem be
witnesses in the investigation of failed DPWH projects.”
Tulfo also pushed for a review of Republic Act 4566 or the “Contractors’ License Law” in order to change the compositions of the PCAB and remove entry points conflict of interest among those who will sit on the board.
“Let us also strengthen the safeguards under the law to ensure the PCAB has the capability to investigate and cancel the accreditation of erring contractors and those who must be blacklisted,” the senator added.
House confident of timely passage of ’26 national government budget
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie & Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
EVEN as lawmakers urged the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to review the National Expenditure Program (NEP) over alleged errors and questionable items, the House of Representatives remained confident that the proposed 2026 national budget will be passed on schedule, ensuring there will be no reenacted budget.
In a news briefing, House spokesperson Princess Abante clarified that budget deliberations are continuing, especially on items without issues, while those flagged for review await DBM corrections. She emphasized that the call of House leaders to “return” the NEP should not be taken literally but “understood as a request for the DBM to make adjustments at the source.”
“The committee remains confident it can still meet the timeline for the approval of the General Appropriations bill,” Abante said. The House is eyeing the approval of the General Appropriations bill by its October 11 break.
She added that the appropriations panel is pressing ahead despite controversy surrounding the NEP, and party leaders have signaled readiness to extend working hours if necessary to ensure timely passage.
non-negotiable.
“This is not a simple matter for the House; it is a constitutional mandate to review and approve the national budget, and the chamber takes this responsibility seriously,” she said, adding that Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez continues to consult with party leaders to steer the process. She confirmed that committee work remains on track, including scheduled deliberations for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Anomalies flagged HOUSE leaders from Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD), the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC), the Nacionalista Party (NP), and the National Unity Party, who are pushing to return the 2026 NEP to the DBM, said their review uncovered questionable provisions across several agencies, including flood-control projects with identical amounts totaling tens of billions of pesos, suggesting templated or copy-paste budgeting. They noted the double appropriations and line items funding projects already completed and oversized lump-sum “nationwide” allocations under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), undermining transparency and scrutiny.
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE Department of Agriculture
(DA) is seeking support from Congress for the proposed law on farm-to-market roads aimed at addressing a 36,000-kilometer backlog.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said FMRs are critical in connecting farmers, fisherfolk, and livestock producers to markets and economic opportunity.
Thus, the agency called on the Congress to prioritize the Farm-to-Market Roads Development and Equity Act, noting that rural infrastructure is key to agricultural modernization, poverty alleviation, and inclusive national growth.
“Every kilometer of FMR we build is a pathway out of poverty for rural communities. But with a staggering 36,000-kilometer backlog, we need a comprehensive, fair, and sustainable approach. This bill delivers that,” Laurel said. To address such a shortfall, the DA is proposing a Farm-to-Market Road Masterplan anchored in six-year rolling implementation cycles, which aligns with the country’s medium-term development strategies.
The plan will also ensure full coordination between agency’s Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering (BAFE) for planning, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for construction, and local government units (LGUs) for integration on the ground.
It added that a National FMR Dashboard will also be established to provide real-time monitoring and promote transparency.
Meanwhile, at least 30 percent of FMR funds under the proposed measure will be earmarked for rural areas with high poverty incidence.
The balance will be directed toward key regional growth corridors identified by the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DepDev) and the Regional Development Councils (RDCs).
Furthermore, major commodity production zones under the agency’s agricultural modernization plan and fisheries development areas designated by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (Bfar) are also among the additional priorities.
Livestock clusters under the National Livestock Program (NLP), and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs),
THE Philippine Electricity Market Corporation (PEMC), the governing body of the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), on Thursday reported that the Reserve Market (RM) has made the power grid more stable and reliable.
“A year after the Reserve Market resumed commercial operations in August 2024, the PEMC, through its Enforcement and Compliance Office [ECO], reports that the Philippines’ power grid has achieved remarkable stability improvements.
The Reserve Market has proven to be a critical mechanism for ensuring nationwide reliability by facilitating the procurement of essential ancillary
such as upland barangays and island municipalities, are also included.
“This is about ensuring no farmer or fisherfolk is left behind just because of where they live,” Laurel said.
The DA noted that well-planned and properly implemented FMRs could lower food prices, reduce post-harvest losses, and raise farmer and fisherfolk incomes.
It could also address peace and order issues and improve overall connectivity for remote and underserved communities.
“Farm-to-market roads are the backbone of food security. They bring down costs for consumers, boost earnings for producers, and unlock growth across rural economies,” Laurel said.
“We cannot leave our farmers and fisherfolk stranded at the farm gate. This legislation lays not just physical roads, but a stronger foundation for food security, equity, and national development.”
services [AS] across the Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao grids,” said PEMC.
PEMC claimed that there was a 98.39 percent reduction in red and yellow alerts versus multiple alerts during the suspension period, with enhanced reliability attributed to the ancillary service providers (ASP).
From August 2024 to July 2025, only one yellow alert was recorded across the entire grid system, which occurred in Luzon in March 2025.
The PEMC also noted an increase in RM participation as the reserve capacity improved by 20 percent in Luzon and 24 percent in Visayas during the period. “The growth reflects the successful
Abante underscored that lawmakers want the DBM to take responsibility for the integrity of the NEP, noting that Congress cannot approve a sound budget if the proposal it receives is riddled with errors.
“We want to review and pass the correct budget. How can we pass it if the mistakes are from the source? The DBM must first fix and correct these errors so that when the budget reaches Congress, we can properly review and approve it,” she explained.
She also pointed out that legislators want to avoid being blamed for so-called congressional insertions, especially given the high level of public scrutiny. The unusually large volume of corrections flagged in this year’s NEP, she said, must be addressed by the DBM and concerned agencies, not pinned on the House.
Abante stressed that the House’s stance is consistent with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s own observations on the budget, reiterating that transparency and responsiveness to the needs of Filipinos are
implementation of the Department of Energy (DOE) policy to promote generator facility certification for AS and encourage RM participation,” it said.
Lawmakers also cited reports of unsolicited proposals for billions worth of firearms under the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the National Police (PNP), raising concerns over possible insertions and alleged “allocationfor-sale” schemes in the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) farm-to-market road budget.
“These are not isolated mistakes. They reflect deeper flaws in the way the budget was crafted,” Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno, chairman of the NUP, emphasized. “Before Congress can deliberate responsibly, the Executive must first correct and clean up these provisions.”
The House leadership urged the secretaries of public works, of budget, of agriculture, and of the interior and local government, along with the National Police chief, to explain directly to the President and to the public how the irregularities slipped into the budget.
Deputy Speaker Janette Garin of Lakas, meanwhile, said lawmakers are ready to cancel their scheduled one-month recess from October 11 to November 9 to
The RM allows the system operator to buy power reserves from the spot market to meet the reserve requirements and maintain balance in the power
during periods of high
and power interruptions. The
but was
Moreover, PEMC reported a reduction in non-compliances under the Reserve Conformance Standards (RCS) and the Reserve Offered Capacity Compliance (ROCC), indicating a “mature compliance culture” among ASPs. The RCS assess accuracy, timeliness, and sustainability of ancillary services delivered by scheduled of reserve facilities while the ROCC monitors the compliance with the submission of reserve offers. ‘With sustained fulfillment of reserve requirements and stronger adherence to the RCS, as well as the ROCC, the power grid is positioned for continued reliability improvements. The success of the RM’s first year demonstrates its effectiveness as cornerstone of the Philippines’ power system security framework,” PEMC said.
THE Nuclear Energy Program-InterAgency Committee (NEP-IAC)
began discussions with concerned agencies on nuclear energy’s environmental impact, the Department of Energy (DOE) said Thursday.
The DOE-led committee organized a technical workshop of concerned government agencies to tackle the environmental regulations for nuclear power.
“This workshop offers a valuable opportunity to address the remaining challenges, enhance our tools, and ensure that Environmental Compliance Certificate applications embody not only our regulatory compliance, but also public trust and scientific integrity,” said DOE Legal Services Director Myra Fiera F. Roa.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), for its part, said regulatory frameworks are necessary to allow the proper management of nuclear plants “from planning to operations and beyond.” Its role, according to DENR Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) director John Edward T. Ang, is to “ensure economic sustainability through conscious and inclusive planning.”
The DOE, DENR and the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) said several regulatory requirements must be met prior to operation, including a license to operate from PNRI, a certificate of endorsement from DOE and an environmental clearance certificate from the EMB.
NEP-IAC through its Subcommittee 3 in August started an extensive analysis of current nuclear laws and policies in view
SENATE President Francis “Chiz” G. Escudero has approved the issuance of subpoenas to five contractors and three executives of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to compel their attendance to the September 8 public hearing on irregularities surrounding the flood control projects across the country.
Acting on the recommendation of Senator Rodante Marcoleta, chairperson of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, the Senate chief signed the subpoenas ad testificandum for the following:
n Darcy Kimel D.J. Respicio, general manager of Darcy & Anna Builders and Trading;
n Sally N. Santos, owner/manager of SYMS Construction Trading;
n Pacifico F. Discaya II, authorized managing officer of Alpha and Omega Gen. Contractor & Development Corporation;
n Maritoni P. Melegrito, authorized managing officer of Elite General Contractor and Development Corporation;
n Edgardo Saggum, owner/manager of Eddmari Construction and Trading;
n Engr. Jaypee D. Mendoza, chief, construction division, Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office, DPWH;
n Engr. Brice Ericson D. Hernandez, former assistant district engineer, Bulacan
of the country’s goal to diversify its energy mix toward attaining energy security and a cleaner energy future.
The proposed Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilATOM), meanwhile, will ensure that all aspects of nuclear energy infrastructure, such as siting, construction, licensing, safety, and eventual operation, are effectively and comprehensively regulated by an independent and competent authority.
“The vision of having nuclear energy is no longer a distant discussion. We are working to put in place a process to ensure that environmental risks are addressed before projects are rolled out. We can make economic progress and maintain the integrity of the environment,” Roa added.
With 24 member-agencies, the NEP-IAC earlier formed six subcommittees to divide and tackle the 19 infrastructure issues.
In pursuit of the Philippine E nergy Plan 2023-2050, the Philippines aims to have a nuclear capacity of at least 1,200 megawatts (MW) by 2032, doubling it to 2,400 MW by 2035 and to 4,800 MW by 2050.
DOE S ecretary Sharon Garin said the target is to start accepting applications for nuclear projects in 2026 to meet the 2032 target. “What our target basically is for the Philippines to be ready to accept applications for nuclear projects by 2026. It’s calculated that from 2026 you apply, process and construct to be on time for 2032, subject to availability already of the SMR [small modular reactor] technology,” said Garin. Lenie Lectura
Dizon purges DPWH: 3 engineers axed, contractors blacklisted in Bulacan ‘ghost’ flood control projects
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
DEPARTMENT of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon has sacked three engineers from the agency’s Bulacan First District Engineering Office (DEO) after uncovering irregularities in multimillion-peso flood control projects that were declared completed despite being left unfinished.
Dizon confirmed on Thursday the removal of suspended District Engineer Henry C. Alcantara, Assistant District Engineer Brice Ericson Hernandez, and former Construction Section head Jaypee Mendoza.
The three officials were linked to what he described as “ghost and substandard projects” in Bulacan, one of which Dizon inspected on Thursday— the P96.5-million flood control project along the Angat River in Barangay Sipat.
The said project was declared completed
by the Bulacan 1st DEO in June, but was found to have only been three weeks into construction.
Wawao Builders was discovered to be relying on daily-paid laborers, contradicting official records stating that it had been fully finished. Its president, Mark Allan Arevalo appeared before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee earlier this week, visibly shaken—his face tense, eyes cast downward, and demeanor on the verge of breaking into tears—as he repeatedly invoked his right against self-incrimination during questioning.
“Mgahayopanggumawanito,hindisila tao, para gawin nila ito sa mga kababayan natin. And believe me, itong mga hayop na itomakukulong,” Dizon said.
Alcantara, who had been serving as the Bulacan 1st District Engineer, was already under suspension when the anomalies came to light. Lawmakers earlier described him as the “kingpin” of the ghost flood control projects in Bulacan.
“Next week, will ask the DPWH Legal to recommend the filing of appropriate criminal charges against Henry Alcantara.
This is a heist worth P100 million,” Dizon said.
Hernandez, Alcantara’s deputy, and Mendoza, who once headed the Construction Section of the office, were also implicated for signing off on the project’s completion despite its unfinished state. They are also flagged for ostentatious lifestyles and frequent casino visits while projects under their watch came under question.
“We will also file appropriate charges against them before the Office of the Ombudsman,” he said. “This is criminal.”
Dizon added that Wawao Builders would face perpetual blacklisting, along with Syms Construction Trading, another contractor earlier flagged for its alleged involvement in “ghost projects.”
He said both firms would be permanently disqualified from bidding for government
infrastructure projects.
“The President has repeatedly said - and this was his clear marching orders to me - that we must not allow this to happen anymore, and to hold people who have done this to account,” Dizon said. He lamented that “Bulacan is just one” of the projects that the agency suspects to have “ghost projects.”
“So, nakakarindi tong ganito,” Dizon said. He noted that this is part of the “purge” that was directed by President Marcos Jr. amid a flood control corruption mess, which is now being investigated by multiple parties, including the Senate, the House of Representatives, and a soon-to-be commissioned investigating body from Malacanang.
Dizon has given himself 60 days to purge the agency of bad eggs and rebuild public trust, pressing more than 250 officials to tender their courtesy resignations in the wake of the “ghost” flood control projects.
Angara hails DepEd budget increase as House supports P928.52 billion proposal for 2026
DESCRIBING it as the “most significant increase in recent years,”
Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara expressed his gratitude for the full support and call for additional funding from the members of the House of Representatives as the Department of Education (DepEd) successfully defended its Fiscal Year 2026 budget before the Committee on Appropriations on Wednesday.
Zamora, emphasized that the proposed education budget will directly target longstanding challenges in the sector.
“This expanded budget is designed to strengthen and grow the teaching workforce, enhance learning integration, and combat child stunting, ensuring that learners receive adequate nutrition to support their physical and mental development. It also aims to close resource and infrastructure gaps in schools,” Zamora said.
She wants to “to urge this body to hopefully fight for a higher [budget]...I know we’re working with the tight fiscal space but we can do our best to urge this body to increase the budget for DepEd.” Committee on Appropriations Chairperson Nueva Ecija Rep. Mikaela Angela Suansing reaffirmed the House’s support for Marcos Jr. and DepEd.
H e highlighted that out of the 56 percent of unused budget last year, 43.2 percent has already been appropriated by the agency in 2025.
1st District Engineering Office, DPWH; and n Engr. Juanito C. Mendoza, accountant III, Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office, DPWH
The Senate chief also approved the subpoena duces tecum addressed to Commission on Audit Chairman Gamaliel Cordoba for the submission of the fraud audit highlights of the agency in its review of the flood control projects of the DPWH and a copy of the responses of the respondents to the findings.
The Blue Ribbon Committee has started last Monday its investigation in aid of legislation of various flood control projects that were either sub-standard or nonexistent at all, which are being blamed for widespread flooding in many areas in Metro Manila and nearby provinces, particularly in Bulacan.
Senate President Escudero said, “no stone should be left unturned in the inquiry into these highly questionable flood control projects that cost taxpayers in billions of pesos and caused nightmares and sufferings for many Filipinos.”
“Let the axe fall on all the personalities found guilty of scheming, conniving and carrying out fraudulent acts in the guise of legitimate taxpayer-funded flood control projects,” he added. Butch Fernandez
Chiz signs more subpoenas to compel attendance of 5 contractors, 3 DPWH execs to Sept. 8 hearing BOI and UP Diliman join forces to address copper value chain gap
THE Board of Investments (BOI) and the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman inked agreements for industry development and promotion to address critical value chain gap in the Philippines’ local copper value chain and to support the development of downstream industries.
In a statement on Thursday, the investment promotion agency attached to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said the parties will work on a project for a Technical and Economic Feasibility Study for the Establishment and Improvement of a Local Copper Rod Casting Facility.
T he research project is titled “Development of Copper Rods with High Conductivity and Low Breakability for the Philippine Wire and Cable industry [also known as Cu-Rod Project].”
The agency’s proposed budget for 2026— amounting to P928.52 billion under the National Expenditures Program—represents an 18.9 percent increase compared to the 2025 General Appropriations Act.
“ We thank the committee and the members for giving us the time to present our programs and proposals. In the Department, we hold on to a simple truth—that those who have less in life should have more in education,” Angara said, noting that it is also in line with President Ferdinand Marcos prioritization of education for next year.
In her sponsorship message, Committee on Appropriations Vice Chairperson and DepEd Budget Sponsor 1st District Representative of Davao de Oro Maria Carmen
Sultan Kudarat 2nd District Rep. Bella Vanessa Suansing also commended Angara’s leadership, particularly in harnessing technology to address gaps in education.
“ We have to address gaps immediately and our good Secretary has been working extremely hard to address those gaps… It’s really hard to find people in government who are willing to go beyond their mandate and we have that in the Department of Education,” Suansing said.
Meanwhile, Zamboanga del Norte 2nd District Rep. Irene Labadlabad, likewise, underscored the need to prioritize the budget of DepEd above all other national government agencies.
“As the President said, we want this budget to be an education budget. So I will take the words of Sec. Angara, who was also a brilliant chair of the Senate Finance Committee, if we are able to find ample fiscal space, we commit to prioritize funding for education,” she said. Angara, in turn, expressed deep appreciation to Congress’ leadership saying, “To our brilliant defender and sponsor, Cong. Maricar Zamora—seven years, wow. Hindi ko alam paanomonagawa‘hoyun.Nagpapasalamat dinpotayokay Committee Chair Cong. Mika Suansing at sa lahat ng mga committee members.”
During the hearing, Angara reported that the Department has been doubling its efforts to improve the utilization of funds for FY 2024 under continuing appropriations.
Senator wants labor inspectors to wear body cams
ASENATOR on Thursday urged the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to require all its field inspectors to wear body cameras while on duty.
During a Senate Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Development hearing, Senator Rafael “Raffy” Tulfo said there must be a way to monitor the work of labor inspectors to ensure they are carrying out their responsibility of checking compliance with labor laws.
Tulfo said some DOLE inspectors, particularly in Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela, only report to the field but do not actually inspect whether workplaces are safe and conducive for workers.
National Capital Region still earn P280 per day, far below the mandated daily minimum wage of P695.
“It’s pitiful. We raise wages and yet it’s not implemented. Secretary Laguesma, I dare you to do something, because if not, I will move to defer your budget during deliberations,” Tulfo said, stressing that inspectors who fail to do their jobs should be dismissed.
The lack of manpower has long plagued the labor department.
them comply with labor and safety standards.
Data from DOLE showed that in September last year, the BWC has inspected around 163,000 workplaces out of its 2024 target of 170,000.
Senator Imee Marcos, likewise, acknowledged the shortage.
We should add more inspectors in the budget, and at higher levels with more expertise and better pay. Sometimes they just hire anyone who can be easily bribed,” she said.
He also discussed with the committee members the Department’s major programs and initiatives for teachers and learners, including the hiring of additional teaching staff and administrative officers, provision of teacher benefits, the School-Based Feeding Program, and procurement of learning materials and textbooks. Still, the Department acknowledged that classroom shortages and the digital gap remain long-standing challenges. Angara, however, vowed that DepEd will continue to explore creative and innovative solutions to address these issues.
“Kagaya ng palagi nating sinasabi, patuloy tayong gumagawa ng mga pamamaraan para lutasin ang mga suliranin na kinakaharap ng ating mga mag-aaral at guro. Sa pamamagitan ng suporta ng Kongreso,masmagigingmabilisatmaayos ang paghahatid natin ng serbisyo sa mga paaralan,”he said. Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
CA confirms SOLCOM chief and 19 others
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday announced that the Commission on Appointments (CA) confirmed the ad interim appointments of Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) chief Lt. Gen. Cerilo Balaoro Jr. and 19 other flag and senior military officers this Sept. 3.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma, for his part, admitted DOLE has no budget for body cameras but said the agency is open to the proposal.
Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino S. Rodolfo shared the government’s efforts to advance critical minerals industry in the Philippines. However, representatives from the DMMME emphasized the need for data from the BOI to “ensure the success” of the feasibility report.
UP-DMMME sought BOI’s expertise to provide “substantial” sectoral inputs on the said project as the implementing agency of the Copper Industry Roadmap (CIR). F or its part, the UP DMMME team will prepare the technical and economic feasibility report and will be ready to present the results in forums that are agreed upon by the BOI and the UP DMMME.
T he Cu-rod Project is a DOST-PCIEERD [Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development] grant which is anchored on the CIR, particularly in the development of downstream copper products.
Da ta from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that copper concentrates exports declined by 22.4 percent to $585.34 million in the January to July 2025 period from the $753.85 million in the same period in 2024. Andrea San Juan
Based on the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed between the BOI and UPDepartment of Mining, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering (DMMME), the BOI will provide “non-financial” support in the form of materials such as a “pre-feasibility study” on a copper wire rod casting plant, and offer technical advice including industry data and information. The investment promotion agency will also provide endorsements to industry partners.
“There’s not even an interview with the workers. They go straight to [human resources]...closed door meetings...then go home with a thick envelope,” he said. “That’s what always happens. We have to stop this kind of, I would even say, corruption.”
The senator also pointed out that the goverment’s policies for workers—including mandated minimum wage increases—are not effective because they are not being implemented on the ground.
He noted that some workers in the
In 2024, DOLE-Bureau of Working Conditions (BWC) Director IV Alvin Curada told B usiness M irror there are only 1,200 labor inspectors tasked with monitoring more than a million establishments nationwide—a ratio that is far too thin. (Related: https:// businessmirror.com.ph/2025/01/01/ behind-the-bill-workers-left-waitingfor-service-charge-promises/)
The problem is compounded by the fact that only 710 inspectors are authorized to conduct workplace visits. Of this number, 621 handle inspections nationwide while 89 focus on decision-making, implementing orders, and supervision.
Inspec tors not authorized for fieldwork are limited to providing technical and advisory services to microenterprises to help
“We are not turning a deaf ear and we will not ignore these issues...In the meantime that we don’t have such devices...we will closely monitor and validate the work of inspectors,” Laguesma said.
Under the Philippine Labor Code, DOLE is required to conduct site visits to ensure the compliance of workers with laws particularly those concerning working conditions, wages, occupational safety and health, and social welfare benefits.
Non-compliance with labor standards may result in administrative fines and penalties. Justine Xyrah Garcia
Of the 20 confirmed officers, the Philippine Army accounted for 13 officers with the Philippine Air Force having four, and the Philippine Navy getting three. By ranks, the list is composed of one lieutenant general, six major generals, nine brigadier generals, three colonels, one commodore, and 1 navy captain (reserve).
“The confirmation affirms the trust and confidence of the government in the AFP’s senior leadership, ensuring continuity in military service and the effective execution of its mandate to protect the nation and its people,” the AFP said. Rex Anthony Naval
Government told: NDC process must be transparent, inclusive
LEADERS of civil society organizations criticized the government for the lack of participative consultation processes in the creation of the country’s updated climate targets under the Paris Agreement. Party countries, including the Philippines, are due to submit updated climate targets ahead of the next United Nations climate conference in Brazil.
In a letter addressed to the Climate Change Commission, Department of Energy, Department of Transportation, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development,
and the Department of Finance, the groups urged the government bodies to embody the government’s declared policy of a “whole-ofsociety approach” to climate action through “urgent and necessary” consultations for the country’s new Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0). The letter was signed by leaders and representatives of the Power for People Coalition, Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development, Diocese of San Carlos, Protect VIP and Social Action Center of Calapan, Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan, Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino, Center for Renewable Energy and Sustainable
Technology, Philippine Misereor Partnership, Inc., Conference of Major Superiors of the Philippines - Justice and Peace and Integrity of Creation Commission (JPICC), Lunhaw, Alyansa Tigil Mina, Freedom from Debt Coalition, Environmental Legal Assistance Center Inc., and SAVE Philippines.
“Being the most vulnerable country for risks and disasters associated with the climate crisis, the Philippines must urgently conduct consultations for the NDC 3.0 submission with care and intention. The gravity of the risks and the existential threat posed by the climate crisis only affirms that consultations cannot be rushed. It is important that the
consultations be an arduous process that ensures the inclusion and participation of as many sectors of society,” the letter read. Consultations need to be organized nationally, along sectoral lines, thematically by the agencies, and with a draft of the proposed NDC circulated well ahead of consultations to ensure that frontline communities and multisectoral groups are able to meaningfully contribute and engage in the process, they stressed.
“With the above, we, the undersigned, believe that the next Philippine NDC can truly reflect our needs as a climate-vulnerable nation,” they said. Jonathan L. Mayuga
Navy detects two Chinese warships off Bajo de Masinloc
STILL
By Rex Anthony Naval
smarting from the embarassment it suffered when two of its ships collided while trying to harm a Philippine Coast Guard ship, China upped its aggression at Bajo de Masinloc by sending warships to the shoal in violation of an earlier agreement with the Philippines to keep navy ships away from the area.
Maritime domain awareness (MDA) activities of the Navy (PN) had detected two Chinese warships some 40 nautical miles off Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), a ranking naval official said on Thursday.
“MDA monitoring by the PN showed two PLAN [People’s Liberation Army Navy] warships, a Luyang class-guided missile destroyer and a Jiangkai classfrigate, in the general vicinity 40 NM [nautical miles] SE [southeast] of BdM,” the PN spokesperson for the WPS, Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad, said in a message to reporters.
He added that these ships were monitored during the conduct of the 10th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) that took place from
THE Armed Forces (AFP) on Thursday announced that its ships and airplanes have successfully conducted the 10th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) with its Australian, Canadian and US counterparts on the waters off Palauig to San Antonio, Zambales, from September 3 to 4.
In a statement, the AFP said the 10th MMCA highlighted the participants’ “strong defense partnership and shared commitment to advancing maritime security and regional stability.”
“The activity featured the deployment of premier naval and air assets: the Philippines’ BRP Jose Rizal [FF-150], supported by its embarked AW-159 “Power” helicopter, a SAR [search-and-rescue] PZL
September 2 to 3 in Zambales waters and involved ships from the US Navy, the Royal Canadian Navy, the Royal Australian Navy and the PN.
“They were observed following the international task group and were not conducting any surface serials or synchronized movement that would generally indicate a joint patrol contrary to publications by the Southern Theater Command. Such messages are part of their malign influence operations to justify their illegal presence in the country’s EEZ [exclusive economic zone],” Trinidad said. Rex Anthony Naval
The Philippine Navy (PN) on Thursday said it has monitored two Chinese warships near Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The two warships, which belong to China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), were spotted 40 nautical miles southeast of Bajo de Masinloc, PN spokesperson for the WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said in a message to reporters.
“These ships were monitored during the conduct of the 10th MMCA [Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity] involving the US Navy, the Royal Canadian Navy, the Royal Australian Navy and the PN,” Trinidad said, referring to the naval exercises conducted on
‘Sokol’ helicopter, and a C-208B surveillance aircraft; Australia’s HMAS Brisbane [DDG-41] and P-8A ‘Poseidon’ maritime patrol aircraft; Canada’s HMCS Ville de Quebéc [FFH332], and CH-148 ‘Cyclone’; and the United States’ P-8A ‘Poseidon,’” it added.
Some of the key exercises in the 10th MMCA included photo exercise that captured the unity of participating navies, a vertical replenishment to test at-sea logistics and resupply operations, and a personnel exchange conducted via RHIB that enabled Australian and Philippine sailors to share best practices onboard.
The Philippines started holding MMCA with its allies started in April 2024.
“The activity also featured a coordinated
September 2 to 3 off Zambales.
“They were observed following the international task group and were not conducting any surface serials or synchronized movement that would generally indicate a joint patrol contrary to publications by the Southern Theater Command,” Trinidad added.
One of the Chinese warships was classified as a Luyang-class guided-missile destroyer and the other as a Jiangkai-class frigate, No other details were provided for security reasons.
PLAN Southern Theater Command spokesperson Senior Colonel Tian Junli claimed, in a Global Times report, said their naval forces conducted routine patrol in the area in response to a joint patrol by the Philippines, Australia, and Canada. Trinidad said such messages are part of China’s malign influence operations to justify their illegal presence in the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Bajo de Masinloc, also called Scarborough Shoal, is located 124 nautical miles off Masinloc, Zambales, and is considered within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile EEZ. With PNA
anti-submarine warfare exercise, which enhanced detection and tracking capabilities, and concluded with a passing exercise, underscoring the seamless coordination and interoperability of all participating forces,” the AFP said.
Meanwhile, the AFP chief of staff, Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration in light of recent multilateral efforts.
“Just days after the successful conclusion of Exercise Alon, the 10th MMCA reaffirms our collective resolve to protect our seas and uphold a rules-based international order. We will continue to build on this foundation of trust, proving that we are indeed stronger together,” he added. Rex Anthony Naval
Diplomacy is of no use without strong military–Teodoro
SECRETARY of Defense (SND) Gilberto Teodoro on Wednesday underscored the need to have a strong military, saying diplomacy is of no use without it.
“There is no such thing as parity dealings with other countries, particularly if there is a controversy, if you do not have a strong armed force to back up diplomacy,” Teodoro said during the Victory Day Commemoration held at the US Ambassador’s Residence in Camp John Hay, Baguio City.
He said the country’s preparations to deter any form of conflict—whether military, non-military, against the elements, or economic competition— must be looked into.
“Those are the facts that we must review today.
In my own remit with [Armed Forces chief of staff]
House to investigate ₧8 billion budget insertion try for purchase of firearms
LEADERS of the House of Representatives have called for a formal investigation into an alleged “attempted insertion” of P8 billion in the proposed 2026 national budget for the procurement of firearms.
In a letter to the House on Public Order and Safety chairman, Manila Rep. Rolando Valeriano, the House Committee on Human Rights chairman, Manila Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr., urged the panel to examine the issue closely, citing both the scale of the amount and possible violations of existing laws.
“I write to formally request for the House Committee on Public Order and Safety to initiate a formal investigation on the attempted insertion of P8 billion in the PNP [National Police] budget for 2026 for the purchase of guns and ammunitions in violation of the procurement law and RA 6975, as amended by RA 8551,” Abante stated in his request.
Citing reports, Abante said the letter was delivered by Adrian Sanares—son of retired police general and current Interior Undersecretary for Peace and Order Nestor Sanares—to then-PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III for his signature.
Torre’s refusal to sign was allegedly among the reasons for his removal.
“Why is a budget insertion request being facilitated by the son of an undersecretary of the agency that would approve such a request? ” Abante asked, while also seeking clarification on what law or rule Torre may have violated that justified his relief.
He noted that P8 billion for 80,000 rifles translated to P100,000 per unit, a figure he described as “staggering.” He
stressed that unanswered questions surrounding the case risk eroding public trust in the budget process.
“These questions call for answers. The public has the right to know,” he stressed.
At a news conference on Wednesday, Deputy Speaker Rep. Ronaldo Puno confirmed that lawmakers had checked the budget books but found no trace of the allocation in either the 2025 or 2026 budgets.
“We looked at the 2025 budget—nothing. We looked at the 2026 budget; still nothing. So if you say insertion, maybe it was still in the planning stage for 2026. We will find out the story there,” Puno said. Puno, a former Interior and Local Government secretary, added that the House will not let the issue pass without scrutiny. “One congressman is already preparing a resolution for us to conduct an investigation. The amount is simply too large to ignore.”
Valeriano, for his part, confirmed that his panel is preparing to convene an inquiry to determine if the firearms fund was ever formally proposed.
“Once and for all, this has to be settled—whether motu proprio, through a resolution, or a privileged speech. The earliest will be by next week,” Valeriano said.
Asked whether the controversy was linked to Torre’s removal, Valeriano said the hearings would clarify the matter. “Definitely, they will be invited to the hearing,” he said.
House leaders emphasized that the investigation will aim to establish accountability and prevent hidden allocations from slipping through the national budget process. Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
Victory Day Commemoration is celebrated to commemorate the end of the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in World War II. It honors the heroism of Filipino and American soldiers who fought side by side to liberate the Philippines.
The occasion also underscores eight decades of Philippine-American friendship. PNA
General [Romeo] Brawner [Jr.], we have found several gaps that we have to modify in order to build our spine or backbone of any country worth being called a country,” he said. Teodoro expressed hope that the Philippines can build up its resiliency and capability to show that it can be a partner in protecting the existing “international order.”
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
ALABARZON’s industrial growth is set for another boost with the launch of the Advanced Manufacturing Center (Amcen) at the Laguna State Polytechnic University in San Pablo City, a facility aimed at strengthening the region’s role as the country’s manufacturing hub.
Calabarzon stands for Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon and is the region directly south of Metro Manila. Science and Technology Undersecretary Sancho Mabborang said Amcen would serve as both a solution to production challenges and a platform for new opportunities.
“Modern facilities, such as Amcen, stand both as a solution to challenges and as a key to open opportunities. It will leverage the skills and creativity of engineers, technicians, and innovators and will serve as a hub of learning and creation,” Mabborang said.
Amcen offers product prototyping, manufacturing, materials development, training, consultancy and other 3D-printing solutions.
It joins similar advanced manufacturing centers established in Cagayan Valley, Central Visayas, Caraga, Northern Mindanao, the Cordillera Administrative Region and Soccsksargen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos).
See “Calabarzon,” A8
UK firm says cheaper telecom services coming with new law
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
FILIPINOS could enjoy affordable telecommunication services and better digital infrastructure with Konektadong Pinoy which recently lapsed into law, a United Kingdom-based consulting firm said.
In its latest brief, BMI, a Fitch Solutions Company, said they shared the view of the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) that the Konektadong PInoy will lead to better telecommunication services, even in previously underserved areas. With the new law, BMI said over 1,000 small internet
service providers as well as regional and global players such as Elon Musk’s Starlink could enter the Philippine market. This will increase competition in the sector and provide more choices for consumers.
“We concur with the Philippine Competition Commission’s view that, by institutionalizing competition in
the digital infrastructure sector, lower costs, improved service quality and greater access to end-users will result, particularly in underserved areas,” BMI said.
BMI said the opposition of telecommunication sector incumbents, the Philippine Long Distance Telephone, Globe Telecom, and Converge to Konektadong Pinoy could prompt them to pressure the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to be more conservative when constructing wholesale and retail pricing mechanisms, access, and interconnection rules.
The firm explained that the fear of the incumbent telcos stem from the gear that “new entrants cannibalize their existing retail service business” and that newcomers may be required to pay low access fees that may be less than the true value of the infrastructure of incumbent players.
“From an IT perspective, we believe that opening the market to a wider range of solutions, services and applications vendors will allow businesses—not least of which will be the Philippines government itself—to choose from a wider selection of products and build a more sophisticated technology ecosystem at a more affordable price point,” BMI said.
“Increased choice should also stimulate increased demand from businesses that have, so far, been reluctant to undertake digital transformation of their workflows and business practices, which would benefit the wider digital economy and allow the Philippines to begin to catch up with neighboring markets,” it added.
However, BMI said, one caveat is the DICT’s “relatively limited experience” in managing a modern digital service market. This inexperience could lead to a set of implementing rules and regulations (IRR) that are either “too restrictive” or not comprehensive. These could lead to weaknesses in cross-border data transfers, data sovereignty, cybersecurity, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Nonetheless, BMI said the DICT has 90 days to draft and promulgate an IRR to implement the law. This period can allow for consultations between the national government as well as telecom and technology players better address concerns surrounding the new law and how to move forward in terms of guidelines.
Last month, Malacanang said the Konektadong Pinoy Bill, which is expected to make internet services cheaper but is widely opposed by the big telecommunication (telco) firms, has lapsed into law.
Palace Press Office Press Officer Claire Castro made the announcement on Sunday, days after telcos announced they submitted their position paper on the new law to the Office of the President.
Under the country’s legislative process, the President may sign, veto or a allow a enrolled bill of Congress to “lapse into law” by not signing it within 30 days from receipt in his or her office.
Last week, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) undersecretary confirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was already studying the bill to determine if he will veto the law or not as requested by telcos.
This after telcos said they have submitted their position paper on the measure to the Office of the President. (See: https:// businessmirror.com.ph/2025/08/25/konektadong-pinoy-billhas-lapsed-into-law-says-palace/)
accommodate extended sessions if needed.
In Malacañang, the chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations said budget deliberations in the chamber will proceed despite the announced review by the Executive department on certain items in the proposed budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
In an interview with reporters in Malacañang at the sidelines of the signing of Republic Act 11253 or the Enhanced Fiscal Regime for Large-Scale Metallic Mining Act on Thursday morning, Nueva Ecija Rep. Mikaela B. Suansing, the panel chairman, said there are no expected changes in the schedules of the ongoing budget hearings.
“We also informed all the House members that with the concurrence of the party leaders, all the budget hearings of the Committee on Appropriations will proceed as scheduled starting today [September 4] all the way to September 16,” she said.
This, Suansing said, includes the scheduled budget deliberations for DPWH on Friday.
Beyond industrial applications, Mabborang noted that the center could help farmers in Laguna and Quezon access farm equipment parts, raising productivity and supporting food security initiatives.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed Calabarzon’s economy expanded by 5.6 percent in 2024, reaching P3.27 trillion. Manufacturing accounted for the largest share at 1.5 percentage points of growth. By sector, industry contributed 49 percent or P1.60 trillion to the regional economy, followed by services at 46.8 percent or P1.53 trillion, and agriculture, forestry and fishing at 4.2 percent or P140 billion. Furthermore, Region IV-A remains the country’s only predominantly industrial-based region.
The hub will also cater to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly those producing metal-based goods, while expanding opportunities in the coconut industry through processing and value addition. “Innovation is at the heart of Amcen. Innovation that is geared to contribute to inclusive growth and economic transformation, especially in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” he said. The center
Gaza City residents face impossible choice: Flee or risk death as Israel offensive looms
By Wafaa Shurafa, Julia Frankel & Sally Abou Aljoud The Associated Press
AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip—
EIR
DAs artillery and bombs pound around Gaza’s largest city and Israel promises a punishing new offensive, Palestinians in the city are paralyzed with fear—unsure where to go, when to leave and if they will ever return. Israel has declared Gaza City, in the north of the territory, to be a combat zone while the military moves forward with plans to overtake it in a campaign to push Hamas into submission. Parts of the city are already considered “red zones,” where Palestinians have been ordered to evacuate ahead of expected heavy fighting.
That has left residents on edge, including many who returned after fleeing the city in the initial stages of the Israel-Hamas war. With Israeli bulldozers razing the ground in occupied neighborhoods and Israeli leaders supporting the mass relocation of Palestinians from Gaza, departing the city now could mean leaving for good. Moving costs thousands of dollars and finding space in the overcrowded south to pitch a tent feels impossible. But staying behind, they say, could be deadly.
“The Israeli forces, when they mark any area by red color and they request the people to leave, they really will destroy it,” said Mohammed Alkurdi, who is sheltering in Gaza City along with hundreds of thousands of other Palestinians.
“So, it’s like you decide whether to live or die. It’s very simple like that.”
An impossible choice between staying and fleeing SINCE Israel declared the area a combat zone on Friday, a small fraction— some 14,840 Palestinians of the nearly 1 million the UN estimates are in Gaza City—have left their homes in the city as of Monday, most to flee south, according to the Site Management Cluster, a joint humanitarian body that coordinates assistance for people in displacement sites.
A fraction of them, about 2,200, have
moved to new places within Gaza City after being displaced by Israeli attacks.
Alkurdi, a project manager and consultant, said he can hear Israeli forces from the apartment where he’s sheltering as they “erase the area completely.”
Zeitoun was once Gaza City’s largest neighborhood, filled with markets, schools and clinics. Over the last month, large swaths of it and the neighboring area of Sabra have been flattened, according to satellite photos reviewed by The Associated Press from early August and early September. The photos show that entire blocks that have been pummeled or bulldozed into empty, sandy lots.
“It’s not something partial like before. It’s 100%,” he said. “The house, I’m telling my friends, it keeps dancing all the day. It keeps dancing, going right and left like an earthquake.”
Many of the people in the city moved back to the north during a ceasefire in January, hoping to find their homes intact. Alkurdi’s home was completely destroyed, so he’s now living alone in a western area of the city. His children and wife were able to leave Gaza last year. He said he would flee south if his home fell under an evacuation order.
Amjad Shawa, the director of the Palestinian NGO network, left his home in the upscale Rimal neighborhood in the early days of the war and also returned there with his family in January. He, like Al Kurdi, said his family would likely leave Gaza City if their area receives an
evacuation order.
But leaving this time would be different, he said. “Gaza will be leveled and destroyed. Last time, I had my car. There was fuel. Everyone had his income, his money.”
Back then, the cities of Rafah and Khan Younis still stood in southern Gaza.
Now, after months of bombardment, “there is no Rafah. Almost no Khan Younis,” Shawa said.
Leaving is nearly impossible for some FOR others—medical workers, older and sick people—leaving Gaza City is nearly impossible.
“The elders, they’re saying we will die here,” Shawa said. “This has pushed the other members of the family to stay, not to leave.”
“My aunt is elderly and can’t walk, and my mother also struggles with mobility. We have so many belongings and no way to manage them. It feels unthinkable,” said Norhan Almuzaini, medical program officer in northern Gaza for the group Medical Aid for Palestinians.
Amal Seyam is the general director of the Women’s Affairs Center in Gaza. Originally from the Tuffah neighborhood in eastern Gaza City, her home was destroyed by bombardment. For nearly four months, she has been sheltering in the Nasr neighborhood in the city’s west, where she stays alongside her colleagues inside the women’s center.
European leaders face tough choices as UK and France host another meeting on Ukraine
By Emma Burrows European Security Correspondent
LONDON—European countries are stuck between a rock and a hard place as a coalition of countries meets in Paris on Thursday to discuss security guarantees for a postwar Ukraine.
The war is raging unabated, with no ceasefire in sight—and the crucial question of American involvement in ensuring Ukraine’s future security remains unresolved. For months, the so-called “coalition of the willing” has been meeting to discuss aid for Ukraine, including sketching out plans for military support in the event of a ceasefire to deter future Russian aggression.
The coalition leaders—French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer—have insisted that any European “reassurance” force in Ukraine needs the backing of the United States. But while US President Donald Trump has hinted his country will be involved, he has moved away from calling for a ceasefire in Ukraine and refrained from implementing tough additional economic measures to punish Moscow. Although Trump said he is “disappointed” in Russian President Vladimir Putin and issued several threats to try to cajole him into negotiating an end to hostilities, none has worked. At a meeting with Putin in Alaska in August, Trump failed to persuade the Russian leader to stop fighting and has not yet managed to broker talks between Pu -
tin and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
While Trump and European leaders met in Washington after the Alaska summit—and US, European and NATO military chiefs held discussions on support for Ukraine—little concrete detail has emerged on the security guarantees to deter Moscow from a future conflict.
Former military generals and experts suggest Europe is in a bind—not knowing the level of support the US is prepared to provide the coalition, the nature of any ceasefire or if the US will abide by commitments made. It’s also far from certain that Putin would agree to a cessation of hostilities, something Russian officials have invariably dismissed.
“Talking about detailed operational planning when you don’t actually have your mission is, quite frankly, impossible,” said Ed Arnold, an expert in European Security at the Royal United Services Institute in London and a former military planner.
Why Europeans believe a ceasefire is necessary
THE “coalition of the willing” is a broad term for about 30 nations supporting Ukraine, but the so-called “reassurance force” that would provide security guarantees to Kyiv is a subset of that group.
The UK, France and Estonia have all suggested they are ready to deploy troops to Ukraine to deter Putin from attacking again, while officials in Poland said Warsaw will not take part and will instead focus on bolstering NATO
Seyam has been displaced five times since the war began—three times within the city and twice to the south, in Rafah and Khan Younis. Each time, she fled with nothing.
When asked if she would consider leaving Gaza City, she said: “I will only leave when everyone who needs me here leaves. As long as there’s a woman who needs me, I am staying. All of Gaza feels like it’s in the red zone now anyway. The bombing is happening meters from us, not kilometers.” She paused, her voice breaking into tears.
“Many people have started packing. Many have already left. Do you know what displacement means? It means moving once again, building your life once again, buying new things, blankets, tents, all over again.”
Dire conditions persist throughout Gaza
THOSE who have left Gaza City over the past few months have found dire conditions elsewhere in Gaza. Their arrival has crowded already overflowing tent camps and sent prices of basic goods up. Iman El-Naya, from Khan Younis, fled Gaza City three months ago. “The beach is crowded. Everywhere is crowded. There’s no hygiene. It’s a struggle to get water and food.”
“I go and stand in line for water. Getting bread is a struggle. Everything is even more expensive after the people from the north came here.”
Shorouk Abu Eid, a pregnant woman from Gaza City, was displaced to Khan Younis four months ago. She said the arrival of more people from the north is creating an even more tragic situation.
“There is no privacy, no peace of mind. Places I used to walk to in five or 10 minutes are taking me around an hour now because of the congestion. There’s barely 10 centimeters between tents.”
Jamal Abu Reily lamented that the bathrooms are overflowing and that there’s so little room for new arrivals.
“How are we going to all fit here? he asked. “Where are they going to stay? In the sea?”
Frankel reported from Jerusalem and Abou Aljoud from Beirut.
European nations, said Arnold at RUSI. Such an operation hinges on the US providing intelligence support and the deterrent effect of US airpower in countries outside Ukraine.
security in the east of Europe.
There is “no suggestion” that any troops will be deployed without a ceasefire because it’s too risky, said François Heisbourg, special adviser at the Foundation for Strategic Research in Paris.
Despite Zelenskyy signaling his willingness to talk, a ceasefire agreement is not currently in the cards—not least because of the positions of the US and Russian presidents.
At his Aug. 18 meeting with European leaders at the White House—three days after meeting Putin—Trump walked back his previous demands for a ceasefire in Ukraine and said he thought a peace agreement was preferable.
The comments marked a shift toward the Russian position from Trump and would allow Moscow to fight on in Ukraine while peace negotiations are underway.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov later suggested an end to hostilities was even further away, stating that Moscow will not accept Zelenskyy’s signature on any peace agreement as Russia considers him to be an illegitimate president.
“If Putin doesn’t want a ceasefire— and if Trump doesn’t call for a ceasefire—what are the chances of a ceasefire happening?” asked Heisbourg.
What a European security guarantee for Ukraine could look like EVEN if a ceasefire or peace agreement for Ukraine were implemented, it’s not clear it would be a sufficient deterrent to Putin and would be “very, very risky” for
The Western appetite to potentially shoot down Russian missiles violating a ceasefire or target launchers firing them from within Russia is “close to zero,” said Heisbourg. Any response to a ceasefire violation, he said, would likely depend on “how many Western soldiers the Russians would have actually killed...and nobody wants to think about that too much in advance.”
In March, Starmer told allies that a force for Ukraine would need at least 10,000 troops, but that would potentially require around 30,000 troops when taking into account those on rotation and rest.
As a coalition leader, the UK should look at contributing a brigade of 5,000 soldiers which would become 15,000 when taking into account rest and rotation, said Arnold.
That figure would account for about 30% of the deployable capacity of the British Army, he said, and potentially create a “tricky” problem whereby the U.K. deploys more forces on behalf of non-NATO ally Ukraine than it does for NATO allies such as Estonia.
European officials have indicated that the troops could be involved in training Ukrainian soldiers and likely based away from the frontlines although the risk of Russian missile and drone strikes would remain high. But there would be “zero credibility” if Western troops were put in various Ukrainian towns without a clear mission or purpose, said Ben Hodges, former commanding general of the US Army in Europe. “That will not impress the Russians at all,” he added.
A MAKESHIFT tent camp for displaced Palestinians stretches across an area near the Gaza City port, Monday, Sept. 1, 2025. AP PHOTO/JEHAD ALSHRAFI
Friday, September 5, 2025
300,000 people evacuated in eastern Pakistan after new Indian flood alert
By Asim Tanveer & Babar Dogar
The Associated Press
SHER SHAH, Pakistan—Officials say nearly 300,000 people have been evacuated in the past 48 hours from flood-hit areas of Pakistan’s
Punjab province following the latest flood alerts by India, officials said Wednesday. The evacuations bring the total number of people displaced since last month to 1.3 million. Floodwaters have submerged dozens of villages in Punjab’s Muzaffargarh district, after earlier inundating Narowal and Sialkot, both near the
border with India. Authorities are also struggling to divert overflowing rivers onto farmlands to protect major cities, as part of one of the largest rescue and relief operations in the history of Punjab, which straddles eastern Pakistan and northwestern India.
Thousands of rescuers using boats are taking
part in the relief and rescue operations, while the military has also been deployed to transport people and animals from inundated villages, said Arfan Ali Kathia, director-general of Punjab’s Provincial Disaster Management Authority.
See “Pakistan,” A13
Mideast drought withers Syria’s recovery after years of conflict
By Abby Sewell & Omar Sanadiki
The Associated Press
DAMASCUS, Syria—The worst drought in decades is gripping much of the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East, drying out rivers and lakes, shriveling crops and leading to dayslong tap water cutoffs in major cities.
The situation is particularly dire in Syria, where experts say rainfall has been declining for decades and where the fledgling government is trying to stitch the country back together following a 14-year civil war that left millions impoverished and reliant on foreign aid.
Small-farmer Mansour Mahmoud al-Khatib said that during the war, he couldn’t reach his fields in the Damascus suburb of Sayyida Zeinab some days because militants from the Lebanese Hezbollah militia allied with then-President Bashar Assad would block the roads. That problem vanished when Hezbollah withdrew after Assad fell in a December rebel offensive, but the drought has devastated his farm, drying up the wells that irrigate it.
“The land is missing the water,” al-Khatib told The Associated Press recently as he watched workers feed the wheat he did manage to harvest into a threshing machine. “This season is weak—you could call it half a season. Some years are better and some years are worse, but this year is harsh.”
In a good year, his land could produce as much as 800 to 900 kilograms (1,764 to 1,984
pounds) of wheat per dunam, an area equal to 0.1 hectares and 0.25 acres. This year, it yielded about a quarter that much, he said. He hired only six or seven workers this harvest season instead of last year’s 15.
Syria’s withering crops BECAUSE the drought followed a prolonged war, farmers who were already financially stretched have had little ability to cope with its effects, said Jalal Al Hamoud, national food security officer for the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization in Syria.
Before the uprising-turned-civil war that began in 2011, Syrian farmers produced an average of 3.5 million to 4.5 million tons of wheat per year, which was enough to meet the country’s domestic needs, according to Saeed Ibrahim, director of agricultural planning and economics in Syria’s Agriculture Ministry. That annual yield dropped to 2.2 million to 2.6 million tons during the war, and in recent years, the government has had to import 60 percent to 70 percent of its wheat to feed its roughly 23 million people. This year’s harvest is expected to yield only 1 million tons, forcing the country to spend even more of its strained resources on imports.
Mudar Dayoub, a spokesperson for Syria’s Ministry of Internal Trade and Consumer Protection, said this year’s wheat crop will only last for two or three months and that the government is “currently relying on signing contracts to import wheat from abroad” and on donations,
including from neighboring Iraq.
But in a country where the World Food Program estimates that half the population is foodinsecure, Ibrahim warned that “total reliance on imports and aid threatens food security” and is “unsustainable.”
The drought isn’t the only major issue facing Syria, where postwar reconstruction is projected to cost hundreds of billions of dollars. Since Assad fled, the country has been rattled by outbreaks of sectarian violence, and there’s growing doubt about whether the new authorities will be able to hold it together. Without jobs or stability, millions of refugees who fled during the war are unlikely to come home.
Interconnected crises
A DAM on the Litani River in neighboring Lebanon’s fertile Bekaa Valley forms Lake Qaraoun, a reservoir that spans about 12 square kilometers (4.6 square miles).
Over the years, climate change has led to a gradual decline in the water flowing into the reservoir, said Sami Alawieh, head of the Litani River National Authority.
This summer, after an unusually dry winter left Lebanon without the water reserves its usually banks through snow and rainfall, it has shrunk to the size of a pond, surrounded by a vast expanse of parched land.
Although an average of 350 million cubic meters (12.4 billion cubic feet) of water flows into the lake during the rainy season each year, meeting about one-third of Lebanon’s annual
demand, this year the incoming water didn’t exceed 45 million cubic meters (1.6 billion cubic feet), he said.
Lebanon’s water woes have further exacerbated the drought in Syria, which partially relies on rivers flowing in from its western neighbor.
The largest of those is the Orontes, also known as the Assi. In Syria’s Idlib province, the river is an important source of irrigation water, and fishermen make their living from its banks. This year, dead fish littered the driedout river bed.
“This is the first time it’s happened that there was no water at all,” said Dureid Haj Salah, a farmer in Idlib’s Jisour al-Shugour. Many farmers can’t afford to dig wells for irrigation, and the drought destroyed not only summer vegetable crops but decades-old trees in orchards, he said.
“There is no compensation for the loss of crops,” Haj Salah said. “And you know the farmers make just enough to get by.”
Mostafa Summaq, director of water resources in Idlib province, said the groundwater dropped by more than 10 meters (33 feet) in three months in some monitoring wells, which he attributed to farmers overpumping due to a lack of rain. Local officials are considering installing metered irrigation systems, but it would be too expensive to do without assistance, he said.
Associated Press reporters Omar Albam in Jisr al-Shugour, Syria, and Fadi Tawil in Qaraoun, Lebanon, contributed to this report.
Continued from A12
A new flood alert was shared with Pakistan by neighboring India through diplomatic channels early Wednesday, Kathia said. It was the second such alert in 24 hours following heavy rains and water releases from dams in India.
Kathia said the Ravi, Chenab and Sutlej rivers are all in high flood following torrential rains and upstream discharges.
Rescuers are also using drones to find people stranded on rooftops in the flood-hit areas. Kathia said more than 3.3 million people across 33,000 villages in the province have been affected so far. Damages are still being assessed and all those who lost homes and crops would be compensated by the Punjab government, he said.
Landslides and flooding have killed at least 29 people in India’s Punjab state, home to more than 30 million people.
Tent villages are being set up and food and other essential items are being supplied to the flood-affected people, he said, though many survivors complained about a lack of government aid. There are about 40,000 people in the relief camps, according to the National Disaster Management Authority. It remains unclear where the rest are sheltering.
Noor Mohammad, a 54-year-old farmer in Sher Shah village near Muzaffargarh district, said he hasn’t received any help.
“Frustrated over this dayslong situation, I sent my family members to stay with relatives in the nearby area,” he said, standing on higher ground overlooking his flooded village.
Malik Ramzan, another displaced resident, said he chose to stay near his inundated home rather than enter a relief camp. “There are no livable facilities in the camps,” he said. “Food isn’t delivered on time, and we are treated like beggars,” he said.
However, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif visited flood-hit areas in Muzaffargarh on Wednesday, meeting with displaced families at relief camps. Her visit came just hours after India issued the latest cross-border flood alert.
Last week’s flooding mainly hit districts in Kasur, Bahawalpur and Narowal, where the deluge also submerged the shrine of Guru Nanak, located near the Indian border. However, authorities said the shrine is being reopened for pilgrims after water receded and the building was cleaned and restored.
Pakistan began mass evacuations last month after India released water from overflowing dams into low-lying border regions.
The latest floods are the worst since 2022 when climate-induced flooding killed nearly 1,700 people in Pakistan.
Associated Press writers Dogar in Lahore, Pakistan and Munir Ahmed in Islamabad, contributed to this story.
A14 Friday, September 5, 2025
Israel criticized for dropping grenades near UN peacekeepers in Lebanon
BBy Bassem Mroue
The Associated Press
EIRUT—Israeli drones dropped four grenades close to UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon near the border with Israel as they were working to clear roadblocks, the force said Wednesday. No one was hurt in the strike.
The peacekeeping force, the UN Interim Force in Lebanon, described the Tuesday morning incident as “one of the most serious attacks on UNIFIL personnel and assets” since the cessation of hostilities in November that ended the 14-month Israel-Hezbollah war.
The Israeli military said later Wednesday that it didn’t intentionally target the peacekeepers,
but dropped several sonic bombs near a suspect in a border area. It added that it had made contact with the peacekeeping force and explained the details of what happened.
UNIFIL said one grenade hit within 20 meters (65 feet) and three others within approximately 100 meters (330 feet) of UN personnel and vehicles, adding that the drones were observed returning toward Israel.
UNIFIL said the Israeli military had been informed in advance of the peacekeeping force’s road clearance work in the area, southeast of the village of Marwahin and less than a kilometer (about a half-mile) from the border line.
“Out of concern for the safety of peacekeepers following the incident,
yesterday’s work was suspended,” UNIFIL said.
UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric when asked whether Secretary-General Antonio Guterres accepted Israel’s explanation that it did not intentionally target the peacekeepers, said, “Whether or not they meant to do it... what I can tell you is that the Israeli Defense Forces were fully informed in advance of the work that we were doing on road clearance in that area.”
He said that UN officials were “relieved that no one was hurt. But this could have been very tragic indeed.”
France, which has a large force within UNIFIL, condemned the attack, saying that the “respect of its members applies to all parties without exception.” Qatar called it a “grave violation of international humanitarian law,” and the UN Security Council resolution that ended the Israel-Hezbollah war.
The attack came after the UN Security Council voted unanimously last week to terminate the UN peacekeeping force in southern
Lebanon at the end of next year after nearly five decades, bowing to demands from the United States and Israel.
The multinational peacekeeping force has played a significant role in monitoring the security situation in southern Lebanon for decades, including during the Israel-Hezbollah conflict. It has also drawn criticism from both sides
after a deadly Hamas-led incursion into southern Israel that sparked the war in Gaza. Israel responded with shelling and airstrikes in Lebanon, and the two sides became locked in an escalating conflict that became a full-blown war in late September 2024.
UNIFIL said that any actions that endanger peacekeepers and assets or interfere with their tasks are unacceptable and a serious violation of international law and the resolution that ended the war. The UN force also said that it was the Israeli military’s responsibility to ensure the safety and security of the peacekeepers performing UN Security Councilmandated tasks.
and from officials in US President Donald Trump’s administration, which has moved to slash Washington’s funding for the operation as Trump remakes the US approach to foreign policy.
The Israel-Hezbollah war killed more than 4,000 people in Lebanon, including hundreds of civilians, and caused destruction worth $11 billion, according to the World Bank. In Israel, 127 people died, including 80 soldiers.
The war started when Hezbollah began firing rockets across the border on October 8, 2023, a day
The Israeli military said that its troops carried out an operation inside Lebanon on the edge of the disputed Chebaa Farms, where they detonated artillery pieces that were used by Hezbollah members during the war. Chebaa Farms was captured by Israel from Syria during the 1967 Mideast war, but Lebanon considers it and the nearby Kfar Chouba hills as Lebanese territory.
The Associated Press writer Edith Lederer at the United Nations contributed to this report.
FRENCH UN peacekeepers deployed at the Suluki Valley, south Lebanon, Wednesday, August 20, 2025. AP PHOTO/HUSSEIN MALLA
DOT cites e-visa nixing, geography for missed goal
By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo Special to the BusinessMirror
THE Department of Tourism (DOT) blamed the cancellation of the electronic visas to mainland China and the geographic location of the Philippines to its inability to attract 7.7 million foreign visitors in 2024.
At the DOT’s recent budget hearing at the Committee on Appropriations in the House of Representatives, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said in response to Deputy Minority Leader Akbayan Rep. Perci Cendaña’s query, the arrivals target last year, “was projected based on the liberalization of visas specifically for China….The electronic visa (e-visa) program was launched by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and it had projected that they would be able to issue 2 million visas within the span of one year, at around 8,000 visas per day. That 2 million number was not reached because the e-visa program was promptly suspended, and regular visa applications were also meted with stricter and more stringent documentary requirements.”
Malacañang had ordered the suspension of DFA’s e-visa program, just as diplomatic tensions between Manila and Beijing heated up anew over the West Philippine Sea and arrests made of Chinese nationals involved in local criminal activities.
Frasco also said the Philippines was 99-percent dependent on air travel to bring in foreign visitors, unlike its neighbors in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), which benefit from visits via land travel.
“For Thailand…their international land-based arrivals constitute around 25 percent of visitors. For Malaysia… it is around 43.4 percent. For Cambodia…it is around 63 percent—in stark contrast to the Philippines arrivals, where only 8.1 percent come from Asean nations,” she underscored.
Last year, only 5.95 million foreign tourists arrived in the Philippines, 28.3 percent less than the arrivals in 2019, which reached a historic high of 8.3 million. According to Cendaña, five years after the pandemic, the Philippines still lags behind in international tourists.
“Isn’t this a clear proof that the
DOT strategies have failed to bring tourism back to prepandemic levels?”
Cendana asked, and urged the DOT “to be more candid about what were the mistakes in the planning and execution which caused this gap of nearly 2-million tourists target as opposed to actual arrivals.”
A DFA source intimated to the BusinessMirror that the agency had made no promises to the DOT that they would approve 2 million e-visas a year. “That was what the DOT wanted, not us,” said the source who was involved in the interagency meetings with DOT, the Department of Justice, and the Bureau of Immigration. Manila has since implemented a visafree program for Indian nationals, to increase tourists from that market.
Private tourism stakeholders had already been urging the DOT to switch gears in its marketing strategies to attract other countries, when it became apparent in mid-way 2024, that the hoped-for arrivals from mainland China were not returning. (See, “Sans China, PHL must lure other Asians, Europeans,” in the BusinessMirror, June 17, 2024.)
Frasco, however, complained about the cuts in their marketing and promotions budget, falling to just P100 million under the General Appropriations Act of 2025, from a high of P1.2 billion in 2023, when she took over the agency.
The DOT had launched in June 2023 what was supposed to have been a reworked branding campaign anchored on “Love the Philippines” slogan, which replaced the award-winning “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” campaign.
Yet, according to institutional investor and hedge fund manager Eric Jurado, the Philippines had the lowest Digital Brand Score among six Asean nations. (See, “In SEA, PHL reaps lowest return on tourism investment,” in the BusinessMirror, Aug. 5, 2025.)
Under National Expenditure Program for 2026, the DOT is seeking a P3.72-billion budget, of which P3.2 billion will be for the DOT-Office of the Secretary, P159 million to National Parks Development Committee, P320 million to the Intramuros Administration, and P44.9 million to Philippine Commission on Sport Scuba Diving.
Manzano noted in a Viber message on Friday.
Continued from A1
Tariff Commissioner George N. Manzano told this newspaper that “frontloading is a plausible explanation.” However, he said frontloading could only be attributed to the growth of exports to the United States.
“I would think so [frontloading]. From April to August the reciprocal tariff has been in the range of 10 percent. The tariff has gone up, yet exports have, likewise, gone up,”
30 business, civil groups to govt: Punish the corrupt
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
THIRTY
business and civil society groups in the Philippines are pinning their hopes on thorough investigations to be conducted by an independent body to prosecute corrupt officials, as they called for an end to “shameful, unabated, continuing and excessive” corruption in government’s public works projects.
“While we take note of the President admonishing the corrupt in government, we are concerned that the guilty among these officials will continue their merry way of robbing the people and filling their pockets, completely oblivious to the fact that they are betraying the public trust, committing a treasonous act against our people, and simply being unpatriotic and sinful,” the groups said in their joint statement on Thursday.
“It is thus important that thorough investigations be conducted by an independent body with the aim of prosecuting these corrupt officials, putting them in jail, and recovering the stolen funds,” the groups added, pointing out that Justice for the Filipino people, especially the poor, can only be
achieved by successfully punishing the corrupt.
With this, the 30 business and civil society groups issued a sixpoint action plan.
Among the recommendations of the groups is to “blacklist” the notorious businessmen and contractors who conspire with the corrupt politicians and officials, and “never do business with these people.”
Another proposal: gather evidence of corruption against officials in the government, particularly those in the DPWH, the LGUs, and COA and their partners in crime in the private sector, so that “appropriate” criminal and civil cases can be filed against them.
The groups also aim to lead the individual signing of the Integ -
Funds for key DOTr…
programs were also dropped, with lawmakers raising concerns about how the country can strengthen connectivity when its archipelagic character demands robust port and shipping infrastructure.
As to the growth of exports to other top markets, Manzano said: “Although I don’t have evidence, the Philippines may be making inroads in diversifying to Japan and Hong Kong markets.” Or, he added, “The bulk of the exports of the Philippines to Hong Kong and Japan is in electronics; it may mean that we are supplying inputs to the US-bound exports of these countries, but this is just a conjecture.” (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/08/29/ despite-tariff-threat-phl-exports-rise-13-9/)
tions of lowering its debt by yearend, according to John Paolo Rivera, senior research fellow at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies.
1.7 percent from P17.267 trillion as of end-June this year.
The Treasury said the government’s liabilities will decline towards the end of the year as P814.2 billion worth of domestic bonds will be paid off, and fundraising activities will dwindle.
The government takes on debts to finance key infrastructure and development initiatives in education, healthcare, agriculture and social services.
By the end of this year, the country’s outstanding debt is expected to ease to P17.359 trillion.
Corruption concerns
HOWEVER , corruption over efficiency in public spending poses a risk to the government’s expecta-
“The realism of bringing down the debt stock depends on fiscal discipline, more efficient spending and strong revenue performance without excessive reliance on borrowings,” Rivera told BusinessMirror
“However, questions about the productivity of public spending, especially amid reported anomalies in flood-control projects, raise doubts,” he noted.
Of the government’s outstanding debt, 68.9 percent came from domestic sources, while the remaining 31.1 percent was from foreign lenders.
Domestic debt rose by 12.6 per-
cent to P12.108 trillion as of endJuly from P10.753 trillion in the same period last year. This also increased by 1.3 per-
Lawmakers raised concerns about the NEP 2026, including for the following: the proposed Mindanao Railway, the redevelopment of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the Calbayog and Naga Airports, the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), among many others.
Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez demanded that the Executive reallocate some funds for the Mindanao Railway, warning that he will move for the deferment of the budget “until they are able to resolve Mindanao’s issues.”
Transportation Undersecretary
cent from P11.950 trillion as of end-June this year.
Meanwhile, foreign debt as of end-July reached P5.455 trillion, higher by 10.5 percent year-onyear from P4.936 trillion. It also went up by 2.6 percent from P5.316 trillion in the previous month.
The Treasury said the government continued to favor domestic borrowings to deepen the local capital market and to mitigate exposure to foreign exchange risk.
In the first seven months of the year, the financing blend comprised 76 percent in domestic financing and 24 percent in external borrowing.
More borrowings ahead
FORMER Socioeconomic and Planning Secretary Dante B. Canlas told BusinessMirror that if the budget deficit widens this year due to unexpected spending for flood
Timothy Batan explained that the 2026 NEP did not provide a single centavo for that project because it has yet to find a “suitable and willing foreign funder” since China withdrew its funding support.
Nonetheless, Batan said, the government is now in talks with its French, Indian, Japanese, and South Korean counterparts for a possible loan agreement.
Samar 1st District Rep. Stephen James Tan and Mamamayang Liberal Partylist Rep. Leila de Lim also questioned why Calbayog Airport and Naga Airport were not prioritized in the NEP.
Akbayan Partylist Rep. Percy Cendana and 1-Rider Partylist Rep. Rodge Gutierrez, meanwhile, flagged the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), formerly known as the Public Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), and the zero budget for
control projects to replace funds
“wasted due to corruption,” the government will need to borrow more.
But if the government defers the allocation to 2026, Canlas said the higher deficit and borrowing requirements would be shifted to the following year, causing public debt to balloon then instead.
Leonardo Lanzona, economist at Ateneo de Manila University, told BusinessMirror that the “best way” for the government to deal with this “mess” is to stop wasting its available funds and ensure that outputs are maximized.
“We can no longer allow more taxes and debts to be created for private interests,” Lanzona said.
Rivera said that to improve the government’s fiscal position beyond just managing debt levels, transparent and corruption-free infrastructure investments and better spending efficiency audits
rity Pledge where, among others, the leader and the company he/ she leads “shall not bribe any politician or government official in exchange for project approvals or favors.”
The groups have also stressed the importance of encouraging the financial sector, particularly the banks and the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), “to be one with us in bringing out the money launderers and their unexplained wealth within legal and regulatory boundaries.”
These 30 business and civil society groups also pointed out the importance of participating in and supporting citizen and voter education campaigns to make the people aware of the “evils of corruption and other misgovernance practices so that citizens can discern and elect officials who have good anti-corruption records.”
The 30 groups are: Alliance of Women for Action towards Reform (AWARE); Alyansa ng Nagkakaisang Mamamayan (ANIM); Association of CPAs for Sustainability Inc. (ACPAFSI); Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP); Cebu Business Club (CBC); Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI); Cebu Leads Foundation (CLF); Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine Islands (CCPI); Connected Women; Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP); Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI); Filipina CEO Circle (FCC); Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX);
fuel subsidy. Lopez warned lawmakers that the sharp cuts could disrupt project rollouts and will force the agency to largely rely on the unprogrammed appropriations.
“What will happen because of the huge cut in our budget proposal, once we’re done disbursing our loan proceeds, [is] we will need to rely on unprogrammed appropriations which will take time and [where] each department can ask on a first come, first served basis,” Lopez told the committee.
He lamented that locally funded projects, particularly ports, were among those excluded despite their importance to the country’s connectivity.
“We are an island country so the connectivity through ports and airports is important,” Lopez said.
“That’s why we are asking Congress to increase our budget in 2026.”
Surigao del Sur First District Rep. Romeo S. Momo Sr. vowed support for the agency’s budget expansion, but flagged the agency’s obligation and disbursement rates.
must be prioritized.
“The government should also broaden the tax base through better enforcement rather than imposing new taxes, while also pursuing public-private partnerships to reduce fiscal burdens,” Rivera added.
‘Inherited debt’
FINANCE Secretary Ralph G. Recto made clear that the Marcos Jr. administration inherited P12.8 trillion from the previous administrations and the government is still repaying this.
“We will make sure that the economy will continue to outgrow the country’s debt to ensure our ability to pay for our obligations,” Recto said in a recent Senate briefing.
To recall, the country posted a debt-to-GDP ratio of 63.1 percent in the second quarter of the year, higher than the 60.9 percent in the
FinTech Alliance Philippines ; Green EDSA Movement (GEM); Iloilo Economic Development Foundation, Inc. (ILED); Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA); Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD); Justice Reform Initiative (JRI); Management Association of the Philippines (MAP); Military and Uniformed Personnel for United Philippines (MUP); Nextgen Organization of Women Corporate Directors (NOWCD); People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP); Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI); Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport); Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA); Philippine Women’s Economic Network (Philwen); Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation, Inc. (SEIPI); Shareholders’ Association of the Philippines (Sharephil) and Women’s Business Council Philippines (WBCP).
“In the strongest terms possible, we hereby declare our outrage, disgust and disappointment about the acts of many of our legislators in Congress and officials in the Executive Department, primarily in the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the local government units (LGUs), and the Commission on Audit (COA), for their shameful, unabated, continuing and excessive acts of graft and corruption—a crime against our people, especially those who continue to live in dire poverty,” the groups said in their statement.
“My worry is the 2023 [funds], which expired already, had only a 73-percent obligation rate, so what was not obligated is big. If we add more funds to the DOTr, can you promise us that you can obligate and use it all?” Momo asked. Lopez responded that reforms were already being implemented to address delays.
“When we assumed office with Secretary [Vince] Dizon in the first week of March this year, the first thing he asked of me was to check the obligation and disbursement rates of DOTr in the previous years and we saw that it was a bit low. So we laid out reforms, including decentralizing the bids and awards committee, hastening payments for foreign loans, and removing the long approvals of variation orders,” he said. Lopez said these reforms have translated to the agency having an obligation rate of 58.9 percent and a disbursement rate of 48.94 percent.
“We are quite confident that we can hit our obligation rate and preserve our disbursement rate even if there’s additional funding,” he said.
same period last year. The debt-to-GDP ratio is projected to ease to 61.2 percent in 2025 and 61.8 percent in 2026. This will further lower to 58 percent by 2030, as the size of the economy is seen to reach P42.6 trillion, while the outstanding debt is at P24.7 trillion.
“The Marcos Jr. administration remains steadfast in its commitment to prudent debt management by leveraging strong investor confidence in peso-denominated securities while ensuring that borrowings are at the lowest possible cost and support fiscal sustainability, inclusive growth, and a stronger Philippine economy,” the Treasury said.
“The government will strictly adhere to its refined Medium-Term Fiscal Program to remain on track with its targets, ensuring fiscal prudence and long-term debt sustainability,” it added.
Towards transparency: Implementing a digital tracking system for the national budget
SENATOR Panfilo M. Lacson’s recent revelations regarding the state of budget implementation for flood control projects in the country shine a glaring light on the pervasive issue of corruption that undermines public trust and effective governance. With only about 40 percent of allocated funds reaching actual implementation, the integrity of our financial systems is in jeopardy. Lacson’s call for a transparent, digital tracking system for the national budget is not just prudent; it is imperative.
Corruption, as Lacson articulated, has become systemic, with funds being siphoned off by a network of officials and stakeholders at every level—from district engineers to politicians. This entrenched culture of corruption not only wastes taxpayer money but also endangers the lives and livelihoods of citizens, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding. The need for accountability in public spending has never been more urgent.
The senator’s proposed solution—a digital platform that allows for real-time tracking of budgetary changes—is a commendable step towards transparency. Such a system could deter corrupt practices by making it more challenging for illicit activities to go unnoticed. By creating a framework where the public can easily access information about budget allocations and amendments, we empower citizens to hold their government accountable. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Lacson eyes stronger digital tracking of national budget,” September 3, 2025).
However, the implementation of such a system is fraught with challenges. As Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman pointed out, while the Department of Budget and Management has some capacity to track changes, full transparency requires collaboration between the Senate, the House of Representatives, and the DBM. An agreement to unify their systems is essential for fostering a culture of accountability.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian’s suggestions for thorough scrutiny of the National Expenditure Program highlight the need for reform. The lack of feasibility studies and the prevalence of round numbers in project budgets highlight a glaring oversight in the budgeting process. These issues not only raise red flags for potential corruption but also point to a systemic failure that could be remedied with stricter oversight and due diligence.
Senator Pia Cayetano’s emphasis on aligning policy goals with resources is equally vital. It is not merely about ensuring that funds are allocated but also about ensuring that these funds lead to meaningful improvements in the lives of citizens. A disciplined approach to budgeting, which prioritizes projects based on their potential impact, is crucial in a landscape where resources are limited.
As the government gets ready to unveil the 2026 budget, it is essential that the lessons from previous mismanagement shape future practices. Embracing technology, increasing transparency, and fostering collaboration among government branches are essential steps toward a more accountable and effective budgeting process. We deserve a system that delivers real change, ensuring every peso contributes to national resilience and prosperity.
The path to a corruption-free, transparent budgeting process is fraught with challenges, but it is a path that must be taken. Senator Lacson’s push for digital tracking offers hope in the fight against corruption. As citizens, we have a duty to back these efforts and insist on accountability, because a government of the people should always be a government that serves the people.
BusinessMirror
T. Anthony C. Cabangon
Lourdes M. Fernandez Jennifer A. Ng Vittorio V. Vitug
Lorenzo M. Lomibao Jr., Gerard S. Ramos Lyn B. Resurreccion, Dennis D. Estopace Angel R. Calso, Dionisio L. Pelayo
A surgical solution to corruption
TEAGLE WATCH
HE widespread corruption continually being exposed by the persistent floodings in different parts of the country is now making it imperative to utilize all the anti-corruption arsenal of the state. The President has issued a government-wide lifestyle check. Committee hearings have started in the Senate and in the Lower House.
T here is a new secretary of Public Works and there will be another independent body to be created for the sole task of investigating the flood control anomalies. Are we appeased by all these? There is that general sense of fatalism that nothing will happen anyway. Those that were jailed because of previous corruption scandals are back and free. Meanwhile, we cannot waste this God-given opportunity to deal with systemic corruption. It cannot be business as usual. With all time high national debt, government is limited to deliver various critical programs in health, nutrition and education.
The foreign investors in our local stock market have been net sellers in the last two years, with the last two weeks exhibiting the steepest out-
flows (indicating loss of confidence). This is despite the recent rate cut of the BSP and respectable earnings performance of listed companies. A drastic solution needs to be put in place. As Senator Lacson said—we need a surgical one! We have the advantage of studying success stories of fighting systemic corruption. One of such is Hong Kong, specifically in tackling police corruption in the 1970s. In 1974, Hong Kong established the Independent Commission Against Corruption reporting directly to the Governor. The ICAC has both prosecutorial powers as well as research functions to redesign procedural causes of corruption. It also ran public communication and social values campaign against corruption. The key to ICAC success
China eyes curbs on
Cwas the implementation of a controversial but powerful legal innovation in shifting the burden of proof.
Under Hong Kong’s Prevention of Bribery Ordinance (POBO), once a public official is found with assets disproportionate to lawful income, the burden of proof shifts to the official to show and justify how those assets were legitimately acquired. This increased the risk for officials prone to corruption as unexplained wealth itself became prosecutable.
The Philippines has all the necessary institutions to address corruption—the Ombudsman, Sandiganbayan and the corresponding laws such as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019), Forfeiture Law, and the requirement for the filing of Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), among others. However, enforcement remains weak and ineffective because the whole process is politicized. More importantly, these laws and institutions work on the premise that the burden of proof is on the State. These has led to backlogs for the Ombudsman and Sandiganbayan and therefore lack of trust and confidence in their effectiveness in fighting corruption.
To make the Hong Kong model work, the country can introduce a limited burden shift for public officials. This is done by requiring public officials to justify assets that clearly exceed their legal income flagged
through lifestyle checks or SALN audits. This is presumptive illegality— if unexplained wealth exists, it is presumed illicit unless the official shows proof of lawful origin. The official is not presumed guilty, but the state creates a rebuttable presumption, and the official is given opportunity to explain. This requires strengthening the SALN system by linking it to automated databases such as the land registry, LTO, bank disclosures, BIR tax filings. Discrepancies could trigger the shifted burden of proof. The safeguards should include judicial review and whistle blower protection. The shift is not arbitrary, and it is triggered only after the state presents credible preliminary evidence, at which point the official must provide a satisfactory explanation. The UK and Australia have similar provisions in their laws such as the Australia (Proceeds of Crime Act, 2002): Uses civil forfeiture— property can be seized unless owner proves it was lawfully acquired and the United Kingdom (Unexplained Wealth Orders, 2018): High-risk officials must explain assets greater than £50,000, otherwise property can be seized. These supports the limited shift of burden as consistent with democratic principles. The limited shift of burden will give the Ombudsman an efficient window in addressing cases. Note, See “Eagle Watch,” A17
stock speculation to foster steady gains
HINA’S financial regulators are considering a number of cooling measures for the stock market as they grow concerned about the speed of a $1.2 trillion rally since the start of August, people familiar with the matter said.
The measures proposed to top policymakers in recent weeks include the removal of some short selling curbs, the people said, asking not to be identified as the information is private. Authorities are also contemplating options to rein in speculative trading on concern a sharp reversal might inflict heavy losses on retail investors.
With an epic boom and bust from 2015 not forgotten, officials are seeking to cultivate steadier gains that will help revive the economy and consumer sentiment. The deliberations also coincided with China’s push to show off its military might at a Sept. 3 parade to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The government often seeks to instill stability in its capital markets around major national events.
China Securities Regulatory Commission Chairman Wu Qing signaled determination to ensure stock market stability at a symposium he convened in Beijing at the end of last month, pledging to consolidate the “positive momentum” of the market,
while promoting “long-term, value, and rational investing.”
It’s unclear if any of the measures will be approved or adopted, said the people. The CSRC didn’t immediately reply to a faxed request for a comment.
China’s stock market has staged a comeback since April, with major indexes gaining more than 20 percent. The Shanghai Composite Index hit a decade-high and the CSI 300 Index has surged more than 20 percent from this year’s low.
Both gauges dropped about 2 percent, the most since early April, by the Thursday midday break. The offshore yuan edged lower. The currency had rallied to its strongest level since November last week, partially fueled by market expectation that gains in Chinese stocks will support the yuan by attracting more foreign inflows.
While the onshore indexes have lagged other global benchmarks for the year, there are signs of froth in China’s $12.5 trillion market that have some parallels to 2015. That painful memory, coupled with Chi-
na’s economic strains and US tariff threats, give authorities all the more reason to take a cautious approach in engineering a sustainable run without spooking investors.
The recent reports suggest there’s “increasing discomfort with the dramatic spikes in retail investors’ activities in terms of margin trading and account opening,” said Homin Lee, a senior macro strategist at Lombard Odier. “It wouldn’t be surprising if the authorities intervene by partially letting institutional investors resume their shorting in the onshore market and doing a round of crackdowns on online platforms that facilitate retail trading,” Lee said in Singapore.
Regulators have already drafted the nation’s financial institutions to help achieve that goal. Banks were asked to investigate the illicit use of credit funds in stocks after regulators’ monitoring found some investors have piled in with money borrowed from online credit platforms, according to people familiar with the matter. Brokerages were ordered to refrain from aggressively touting their round-the-clock services to help open new stock accounts, said the people. Flocking to the market, retail investors opened 166 percent
more new accounts in August than the same month last year, according to exchange data.
In an early sign that the regulators could be getting more hands on, Ningbo TIP Rubber Technology Co., which had gained the 10 percent limit for nine sessions straight, suspended trading on Thursday, citing a need to protect investor interests after abnormal fluctuations. Artificial intelligence chip designer Cambricon Technologies Corp., seen as one of the targets of speculation, warned investors last week about risks in trading its stock.
Social media platforms were also alerted not to overly publicize content on the bull market, margin transactions hitting a new high, and rising reallocations of bank deposits into stocks, to avoid stirring up novice investors, people with knowledge of the matter said. Any violations and illegal stock recommendations will be severely punished, they said. China’s ubiquitous WeChat app pledged to restrict traffic or ban certain accounts after some were found to have illegally offered stock recommendation services or lured users with fabricated and misleading information, according to a late August statement.
Dr. Alvin P. Ang
The flooded capital, the drained Republic
By Troi Santos
THE Philippines has always been a country written in water. Its 7,641 islands form not a solid landmass but an interlacing of seas, rivers, and estuaries. Filipinos long adapted, building houses on stilts, planting rice that thrives in standing water, and inventing boats that crossed oceans. Yet the same waters that sustain life have always exacted their price. Every monsoon season, the same scenes unfold: news anchors wading kneedeep through submerged roads, vehicles abandoned in sudden torrents, families clinging to rooftops. For millions, flood is not a disaster but an annual visitor, unwanted yet expected. Billions have been spent to keep the flood away. Still, the waters rise.
The arithmetic is staggering. The Philippine government allocated P254.3 billion (about US$4.5 billion) for its Flood Management Program in 2025. The Department of Finance estimates that project failures from 2023 to 2025 alone may have cost the economy up to US$2.1 billion. At the same time, under US trade policy, Philippine exports face a 19 percent tariff, exposing roughly US$2.7 billion annually. Side by side, the numbers reveal a brutal symmetry, billions lost abroad to geopolitics, billions questioned at home through projects under scrutiny. I witnessed firsthand how President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. grappled with these twin burdens during his visit to the White House. Even as Manila streets were flooding, he pressed hard in Washington to secure tariff relief for Philippine exports. At the Oval Office with the US President, and later at Blair House, I saw in his face the strain of carrying both responsibilities, geopolitical headwinds abroad and rising waters at home. It was a moment that revealed genuine concern.
The tragedy is not that the Philippines lacks plans. In 2012, with JICA’s support, the country approved a P351 billion Master Plan for Flood Management for Metro Manila and nearby provinces. It called for pumping stations, levees, channel improvements, and zoning reforms. Thirteen years later, only fragments have been completed. Some pumps are modernized; others sit clogged with trash. Floodplains are reclaimed, levees rise in patches. Meanwhile, a key piece of the original hydrologic trilogy, the Parañaque Spillway, remains unbuilt, leaving Laguna de Bay as a bathtub with no drain. Every year, the cost of inaction grows, measured in lost homes and productivity.
Climate change magnifies the danger. Heavier downpours, stronger typhoons, and rising seas shorten the return period of storms. Defenses calibrated for “50-year” floods now face conditions once expected every 100 years. Manila’s flood infrastructure is fighting not only history but the future.
What makes floods unforgiving is simple physics: water will always take the path of least resistance, and water must go somewhere. Engineering offers three choices, guide it, detain it, or make space for it. Manila has tried all three, but incompletely. Floodways narrowed by settlements, hydraulic controls that trap water inside, pumps that fail without telemetry or backup power, each shortcut is exposed
Anger in September
Sonce the rains arrive.
But the missing element in flood control is not only concrete. It is governance. Even the best structures fail if oversight collapses. Transparency itself should be treated as an engineering requirement.
Imagine live streamed bidding for public works, open on social platforms. Such broadcasts would deter collusion, raise reputational costs of fraud, and even generate revenue through views. The public would likely have their eyes glued, not only for the drama of live competition but also for the rare chance to see government transactions unfold in real time.
Flood control should also adopt what aviation and nuclear industries consider standard: Independent Owner’s Engineers to certify design and construction, accountable to neither contractor nor client.
A 10-year operations-andmaintenance escrow would prevent the all-too-familiar scenario of pumps working on inauguration day and failing a year later. And citizen monitoring apps, deployed at the barangay level, could allow residents to flag blocked drains or idle pumps, triggering official response times. Water is local; so must oversight.
What to do next is no mystery. First, complete the Parañaque Spillway with environmental safeguards. Second, restore the Manggahan Floodway to its intended capacity. Third, modernize all pumping stations with redundancy and telemetry. Fourth, retrofit cities with permeable pavements and detention parks. Fifth, embed governance into every contract, transparency, independent audits, and escrowed O&M. Floods do not wait for Senate hearings. They expose every shortcut, every missing permit, every unbuilt spillway. But they also vindicate every sound decision, every pump that runs, every channel that flows.
If $2.7 billion is the potential cost of tariffs abroad, and US$2.1 billion is the estimated cost of projects under scrutiny at home, then the Philippines is living under a double tax: one imposed by Washington, the other by its own inability to execute. Diplomacy can ease the first. Only discipline can erase the second. Water, in the end, is the fairest judge. It respects neither excuses nor promises. It respects only engineering that works.
(Disclaimer: Figures based on official government disclosures and trade data as of 2024–2025. Conversions are approximate, and actual impacts
Tito Genova Valiente
ANNOTATIONS
EPTEMBER arrived with the rain, and before that, the great flood, a series, which reminded us all that was remiss in the governmental duties and responsibilities. It was not that the waters inundated mercilessly cities and villages and washed off bridges and other structures made frail because of substandard materials but because for the people, it was obvious there were people who did not care less if death happened. It was clear how bureaucrats had already lost their sense of civil obligation.
It did not happen overnight; it gradually was born—this newfound gift of finding in disaster and calamity sources of revenues. This has the same provenance as when wars brought about novel ways of generating income, when destruction in the form of weapons and bombs found their renaissance in conflicts. Duplicity, which is the hallmark of politics, found its way into the characters of the men and women running the government; one face looks to the constituent with benign facade while the soul, that which commands the evil mostly and rarely the good, rakes in the benefits with his comradesin-arms, a cohort in corruption and moral decay.
After the rain, after the flood, comes the mud, the muck, the slime and the slush. We wallow in the morass. We are deathly aware of the physicality of dirt, and how the stench clings to our body. This we are all aware of. We see ourselves surrendering to the nausea mainly because we cannot dispute it. What we do not recognize is the fact of the grime that has entered our being -that which has made us accept the power of impurity, that we are a mutilated creature, incomplete, already non-human, fully inhuman, open to all the sins of imperfection.
That we cannot reform anymore. That we cannot rage anymore. That
we can only look up to the heavens, or so we thought, and approximate with imagination any creature that embodies any form of power and thereby declare that Form our god. When they are merely these hideous politicians now scrambling for position either to be saved from perdition or to shamelessly condemn others for crimes they have similarly committed in the past or are committing at present.
The Philippines and Indonesia are two great maritime Southeast Asian estates in the Malay archipelago. There is only the Celebes Sea, which separates the two but culturally there is a surplus and wealth of similarities between the two. A great respect for elders is common for Filipinos and Indonesians, and cultural workers note how the “pagmamano” or blessing, has a counterpart in Indonesia and is called “Salim Sungkem,” done where the younger person lowers his head before the elder and presses the back of the hand to his forehead.
And yet, something radical lately has separated Indonesia from the Philippines.
A long, continuous rioting has been taking place in various cities of Indonesia. The root of all this is when the Indonesian government approved a new monthly housing subsidy for parliamentarians worth 10 times than the capital’s minimum wage. There was also the trigger case of the motorcycle taxi driver—our equivalent of tricycle driver—that was run over by a police car.
Massive gates of government buildings are destroyed by the crowd; mansions of parliamentarians are being looted and burned. The people are enraged. The online comments from Filipino readers are expressing what is known in online jargon as “manifesting,” that similar events may take place in the Philippines as well.
people is the same terrifying and eternal image of structured inequality festering in Philippine society.
Conflating the issue is the conspiracy and collusion among the congressmen, senators, bureaucrats and contractors to corner the contracts from the government. There is, of course, an ongoing investigation and the public looks on in awe because on the stand are the judges and the investigators—the line between the guilty, the brazen, and the clueless blurred, take your pick, my dear observers.
In the meantime, a top contractor has appeared and is lost as to the number of luxury vehicles she owns; in the process, we discover, she is a British national, with an accent to boot when the occasion calls for it. Across the sea, the Indonesians are carving history and making these days and this month an unforgettable one. Within our territories, we have a vanishing breed. These politicians—most of them anyway—are like birds. They go through one window and pass through another, and the world will never remember them.
When one looks at the politicians and the issues being raised by the people, you might as well be looking at the Philippines. The disparity being protested by the Indonesian
They may not even become fossils.
According to Bill Bryson in “A Short History of Nearly Everything,” “it isn’t easy to become a fossil. The fate of nearly all living organisms—over 99.9 percent of them—is to compost down to nothingness.” Which is just as well. I don’t think we need to be reminded of how worthless these politicians are in our history. We do not need them. Not in fossilized forms. Not in embedded shadows at all. But let us rage. Let us be angry. Let that anger rise and be the monument to the stupidity of our country.
E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com
India panel approves lowering consumption taxes from Sept. 22
IBy Shruti Srivastava
NDIA has lowered nationwide consumption tax as policymakers step up efforts to boost local demand in the economy buffeted by steep tariffs imposed by the US.
A panel of federal and state finance ministers on Wednesday decided to cut taxes on most items of everyday use, premiums on insurance policies and vehicles. It, however, raised the levy on ‘sin goods’ such as cigarettes, chewing tobacco and some luxury cars to 40 percent.
The GST Council agreed to two rates of 5 percent and 18 percent against an existing four-tiered tax structure, according to an official statement. The new rates will come into effect from September 22, except for cigarettes, chewing tobacco and “pan masala.”
“We have reduced the slabs, there shall be only two slabs, and we are also addressing issue of compensation cess, ease of living, simplifying registration, return filing, and refunds,” India’s Finance Minister
Eagle Watch. . .
however, that this innovation will need amendments to existing laws and thereby will not immediately address the current issues. But, once they are in place, they will send clear signals for all public officials that corrupt practices can easily be prosecuted. We need a two-pronged solution to the current flood control issue—convict the perpetrators and jail them and plug the holes in the whole bureaucracy that allows the corrupt to game the system. Otherwise, the same issues will crop up somewhere else (as it has been the case). This is why the solution needs to be surgical—precise and painful—to remove
Nirmala Sitharaman said during a media briefing in New Delhi after the meeting of the council. “These reforms have been carried out with the focus on common man. The rates have come down drastically.”
The taxes have been cut for almost 400 categories of products. The cuts will impact items weighing around 16 percent of India’s consumer prices basket and could put 1.1 percentage point downward pressure on inflation, according to Citigroup Inc. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had proposed a major rejig of the complex goods and services tax last month, a move many businesses had been pushing for since the system was rolled out in 2017. Nifty futures traded higher on Thursday as investors bet lower taxes on everyday goods would boost consumer spending and help offset the drag on economic growth from US President Donald Trump’s punishing 50 percent tariffs.
“Lower GST rates will be positive for growth in the second half of the year,” said DBS Group Research’s Senior Economist Radhika Rao in a note
it altogether in our system. We need to regain our people’s trust and confidence in our governance capacity. But reforms can only be sustained if the people trust that the system can be trusted to punish the corrupt. This can be summarized in a possible paraphrase attributed to Lee Kuan Yew on where to start fixing the Philippines—“Start by having leaders who do not steal. Then make the people believe that the rules truly apply to everyone.” Luke 12:48: “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded.”
on Thursday, adding the changes will also expand the size of the formal economy.
Rate cuts are expected to put more disposable income in the hands of consumers to lift consumption, which accounts for 60 percent of India’s gross domestic product. According to Revenue Secretary Arvind Shrivastava, the changes will have a net impact of 480 billion rupees on revenues, but will be fiscally sustainable.
India’s 10-year bond yield fell as much as four basis points to 6.51 percent as the potential revenue loss due to the tax cuts is less than estimated. The relatively low fiscal implication may ease some concerns of bond markets, according to Upasna Bhardwaj, chief economist at Kotak Mahindra Bank.
The move will help boost an economy that isn’t expanding fast enough to meet Modi’s goal for India to become a developed nation by 2047. The economy expanded 7.8 percent during the first quarter of the current fiscal year that runs through March 2026.
Over 400 mutual fund products have either announced a halt or cap in subscriptions in August, local media have reported. Trading volumes on mainland exchanges hit more than 3.1 trillion yuan ($434 billion) on August 27, the second highest ever, while margin transactions have reached record levels, surpassing 2015. Much of the
The push for higher domestic consumption is part of Modi’s broader strategy to increase India’s self-reliance amid rising protectionism around the world—a trend he’s criticized as economic selfishness. Trump doubled the tariff on Indian goods to 50 percent last week as a punishment for buying Russian oil. Citigroup Inc. estimates that the combined 50 percent tariff poses a 0.6-0.8 percentage point downside risk to India’s annual GDP growth. At 50 percent, the highest tariff among Asian nations, Indian exporters fear getting decimated and have warned of massive job losses.
Sitharaman said the GST reform wasn’t influenced by the tariff turmoil, and will have a “very positive” impact on India’s GDP.
“We believe GST is not a static situation—when rates come down, buoyancy goes up,” Revenue Secretary Shrivastava said. “We expect people to come out and buy more when taxes are reduced.” With assistance from Ruchi Bhatia, Anirban Nag and Subhadip Sircar/Bloomberg
Sinolink Securities Co. raised its margin deposit ratio on new client financing contracts for some securities to 100 percent from 80 percent starting August 27. For now, regulators might still have some buffer room before they take any actions to intervene, as some argue the recent run is not retail-driven like in the 2015 round. Citic Securities Co., one of the nation’s top brokerages, said smart money such as high-net worth individuals or corporate investors have piled in via hedge funds, constituting the main drivers of stock gains. Bloomberg
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. meets with US President Donald Trump at the Oval Office of The White House on tariff issues, a time when he was burdened by the huge problems spawned by flood project corruption. TROI SANTOS
THEgarments sector has already lost 50,000 jobs in the past three years and faces deeper contraction as successive wage hikes and a new 19-percent reciprocal tariff threaten its competitiveness, an industry group warned on Thursday.
At a Senate hearing on proposals to abolish regional wage boards and legislate an across-the-board pay hike, Confederation of Wearable Exporters of the Philippines (Conwep) Executive Director Maritess Agoncillo described the sector as being caught in a “perfect storm” of local and global pressures.
“In the past three years from 2022 to 2024, we already lost 50,000 jobs within the sector—about 30,000 direct and 20,000 indirect workers. We call our industry in the perfect storm,” Agoncillo said.
She said wage hikes alone have reduced the industry’s 2024 export performance by $260 million, or roughly 25 percent, with some major brands already pulling out of the Philippines. In Metro Manila, she noted that workers have received cumulative wage hikes of P158 in just three years under the Marcos administration— already more than the P109 granted across six years during the Aquino administration, and over triple the P46 approved under Duterte’s term. “We want to make it clear. We’re not against providing the rightful minimum wages to our workers. We are very good employers. But it has to be a balancing act,” Agoncillo said,
stressing that a uniform nationwide wage would not solve the problem.
She said the country’s eroding competitiveness has already driven out long-time investors, citing the case of a Japanese baseball glove company that closed after the P50 wage increase in NCR last July. The firm had operated in the country for four decades.
The situation is further complicated by the 19-percent reciprocal tariff imposed by the United States, which Agoncillo said pushes effective duties on Philippine exports to between 34 and 52 percent.
“So for us to be able to sell jeans, Tshirts and suits, it’s an average of 34 to 52 percent if it is sourced from the Philippines,” she explained.
Because of this, she added, buyers are pressuring local producers to cut prices by up to 5 percent, leading to reduced orders as far ahead as 2026.
Industry projections have swung from 6-percent growth before the tariff to negative 3 percent this year, negative 6 percent in 2025, and a double-digit contraction of 18 to 25 percent by 2026.
“We may really decimate the industry after this perfect storm,” Agoncillo said.
She stressed that Conwep supports retaining the regional wage boards, which she said base adjustments on inflation and economic conditions.
“We’d rather storm this on the regional level rather than across the board nationwide legislated wage agenda,” she said.
Labor groups push back MEANWHILE, several labor groups pushed back against claims that rising wages are to blame for the industry’s decline.
Sentro Secretary General Josua Mata argued that labor productivity cannot be reduced to wages alone.
“The problem is the cost of living here is really high because electricity is expensive and they have a smuggling problem. The burden of this so-called perfect storm should not be dumped on the workers,” Mata said.
He added that many labor groups prefer to push for wage increases through collective bargaining, but are hindered by the country’s low unionization rate.
“There is so much contractualization, there’s so much trade union repression, that we cannot
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. wants the new independent commission, which will look into alleged anomalous flood control projects (FCP) of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to have subpoena powers, according to Malacañang.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the power will enable the commission to hold accountable the people involved in such illegal activities.
“But what the President wants for the said independent commission is to be given strength, to be given teeth so that it can better implement its mandate,” Castro said in Filipino in a press briefing on Thursday.
“And the President wants the independent commission to have subpoena power,” she added.
Last Sunday, the chief executive announced he will create the commission so it can look into the defective, incomplete, or non-existent FCPs of DPWH.
Castro said the President will soon issue the Executive Order to establish the commission.
While Marcos was able to determine during his site visits to some of the FCPs that there were indeed “ghost” or non-existent FCPs, authorities have yet to file charges against the involved
contractors, as well as government officials and personnel, according to Castro.
“Right now, since no cases have been filed yet, we really can’t stop anyone from leaving the country because we have freedom of movement, and that is respected,” Castro said when asked for her reaction to reports that two contractors allegedly involved in the problematic FCPs recently went abroad.
On Thursday, the DPWH announced that it will issue an order for the perpetual blacklisting of Wawao Builders and SYMS Construction Trading for their involvement in ghost projects in Bulacan.
DPWH also said it will endorse to the Department of Justice the filing of cases against the erring contractors.
“This step by the agency is in line with the call of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for swift action, filing of cases and holding accountable those behind anomalous projects,” Castro said.
To prevent similar anomalous FCPs, the Presidential Communications Office undersecretary said the Department of Finance (DOF) and the Economy and Development Council Investment Coordination
See “PBBM,” A2
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
By VG Cabuag @villygc
SHOPPING mall operator SM
Prime Holdings Inc. expects to have 115 malls by 2030 or four to five malls per year, as the company expands its footprint outside of Luzon and Metro Manila.
Shopping Center Management Corp. (SCMC) President Steven T. Tan said there’s no commitment on the part of the company just in any case that there will be no delay, such as typhoons.
For now, Tan said SCMC, the mall management unit of SM Prime, targets 100 walls by 2027 or 2028, and will open one flagship or premier mall per year through 2030, as it expands its reach in the Visayas and
Mindanao.
“I think this year, we are on track to open La Union next month, Zamboanga will be moved to first quarter next year because of some delays in the construction of even some of our tenants, because of the distance as a lot of the contractors are from Manila, and some difficulty with the manpower,” Tan said.
“But in any case, that we’re not able to reach that (100 malls), we
have other areas that we have been doing. So it’s not just a new walls that we are really counting in terms of the growth of the company, but also the redevelopment and expansion in terms of achievement, in revenue and hitting our target, we’re there,” he said.
The company may end the year at 89 malls, which include those located in the People’s Republic of China.
SM Prime is investing some P150 billion redevelop some of its existing malls and build new ones. According to the listed firm, it will undertake 16 major redevelopments and 12 new malls, all of which its entire portfolio evolves into greener, smarter, and more people-centered destinations by 2030.
“Our vision is clear. We are building the next generation of malls for the next generation of Filipinos,” Tan said.
Among its major malls, Tan said the company has already completed
Tthe redevelopment of Mall of Asia in Pasay and in SM Aura in Taguig. It is currently re-making SM Megamall in Mandaluyong, and Tan said the company is readying to makeover SM North Edsa, possibly by next year.
Over the next five years, SM Prime open SM Santa Rosa (Yulo) in Nuvali by 2026, Harrison Plaza in Manila by 2027, SM Malolos in Bulacan by 2028, Cavite by 2029 and Pasay by 2030.
SM Prime mall redevelopment include open-air promenades, lifestyle zones, and sustainable features. These redevelopments will make every SM mall more vibrant, green, and people-centered, the company said.
“This new era is not about adding more malls. It is about creating destinations that matter, modernizing the malls people already love, and ensuring every Filipino has access to world-class malling,” Tan said.
Suntrust infuses funds into casino
THE Suntrust Resort Holdings Inc., the foreign partner of Andrew Tan’s delisted firm Travellers International Hotel Group Inc., has infused P3.2 billion for its billion-dollar project integrated resort and casino in Entertainment City in Paranaque.
In its disclosure, Suntrust subscribed 400 million common shares of Westside Bayshore Holding Corp., or about 40 percent of the company, for P8 apiece. Through this acquisition, Sun-
trust will effectively hold an indirect interest in Entertainment City Resorts Corp., a unit of Westside Bayshore.
The ECRC assumed all rights and obligations related to the Westside integrated resort project to ensure its timely construction, development, completion and operation.
“Suntrust’s acquisition of 40 percent of the total outstanding and issued shares of WBHC is pursuant to a strategic working agreement with the parent company of WBHC, Trav-
ellers International, Westside City Inc. and Entertainment City Resorts Corp. to expedite the completion of the now-expanded Westside Integrated Resort Project, located in Entertainment City, Parañaque City in Metro Manila, Philippines, Suntrust said through the disclosure.
The said integrated resort is on track to open by the third quarter of 2026. The project brings together a mix of hospitality, gaming, retail, and entertainment offerings, according to the company.
It will have more than 2,500 hotel room keys across three hotel brands, more than 2,000 gaming machines and tables and a lineup of dining and lifestyle concepts.
At the heart is a theater district, with four venues set to position the Philippines as the Broadway of Asia.
The Grand Opera House will serve as the development’s crown jewel, envisioned as a national stage for the best of Filipino and global productions, the company said. VG Cabuag
BCDA taps Indian firm for ICT devt
TBy Henry Empeño
HE Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) announced it has tapped Indian telecommunications technology firm iSON Tower Ltd. Inc. to accelerate the digital transformation of BCDA-administered properties in the country.
a wide range of food and beverage products, as well as health supplements.
“Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that can run at baseload capacity which is ideal for industries that require stable 24/7 power supply with a lower carbon footprint. We are pleased to support Taiwan Fructose in its journey towards sustainability and decarbonization,” said First Gen Chief Customer Engagement Officer Carlo L. Vega.
According to the governmentowned corporation, it expects this move would provide “faster, more reliable and more affordable” digital connectivity in key ecozones, including Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, New Clark City in Tarlac, Camp John Hay in Baguio, Poro Point Freeport Zone in La Union and Morong Discovery Park in Bataan.
The collaborative project was formalized under a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by BCDA President and CEO Joshua M.
Bingcang and iSON Tower Chairman Vivek Gupta on August 27, the BCDA announced in a statement only on September 4. The BCDA didn’t disclose the value of the agreement.
Under the MOU, iSon Tower, a subsidiary of India-based iSON Group, will take the lead in conducting technical assessments, feasibility studies and business case preparation to come up with recommendations for the development, implementation and construction of passive telecommunication infrastructure and related services.
As a firm accredited by the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) to provide common towers in the Philippines, iSon Tower will also share its technical expertise with the BCDA in developing passive infrastructure solutions for network coverage and connectivity.
Bingcang said iSON’s global expertise in building robust and secure digital networks “will deliver transformative development in our ecozones.”
“This will pave the way to faster, more reliable digital services within the BCDA’s properties, helping locators thrive and improving residents’ everyday convenience and quality of life,” he added.
The BCDA said its partnership with iSON Tower is a direct result of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent state visit to India, which strengthened ties and facilitated new collaborations in digital infrastructure between the two countries.
The BCDA added that the partnership supports its vision to develop smart, future-ready communities that drive innovation and attract high-impact investments in technology-driven industries.
HE National Power Corp. (NPC) will turn over 437 units of portable photovoltaic (PV) solar home systems (SHS) to Dumagat Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) residing within the Angat Watershed Forest Reserve (AWFR) in Bulacan.
“NPC is fully driven by the mission to achieve universal access to electricity for all Filipinos, including indigenous cultural communities in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas,” NPC President and CEO Fernando Martin Roxas said.
A ceremonial turnover takes place on Friday, September 5.
The state firm said Thursday the portable PV solar home system is part of a state-funded Total Electrification Project (TEP) 2, spearheaded by the Department of Energy (DOE).
TEP 2 aims to enable households in rural areas unreached by major electrical grids to have access to sustainable energy.
NPC said this batch of portable solar PV SHS will benefit an esti-
DAVAO CITY—The Alcantaraowned property development unit romped with three top awards at this year’s property awards handed-out by the Singaporebased PropertyGuru Ltd.
The Alsons Development and Investment Corp. (Alsons Dev) announced that it received multiple honors across key categories: Best Housing Development (Mindanao) for Narra Park Residences Avia, Best Mixed Use Development for Avia Estate; and, a highly-commended citation for Best Housing Development (Metro Davao) for Mahogany South.
It said the recognition of Narra Park Residences Avia “demonstrates the company’s leadership in delivering high-quality, thoughtfully designed housing developments.”
Avia Estate’s win also underscored Alsons Dev’s capability “to create integrated, purposeful developments that combine residential, commercial, and leisure spaces in one masterplanned environment.”
“Additionally, Mahogany South made a strong debut at the awards,
METRO Pacific Investments Corp. announced last Thursday of having appointed former Philippine Airlines President Gilbert Gabriel F. Santa Maria as the new president and CEO of Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. effective September 1. Santa Maria succeeds Jose Maria K. Lim, who assumed the role of interim president to help stabilize MPTC’s leadership. Lim will continue to serve as a director of MPTC, MPIC, including their subsidiaries and affiliates.
Santa Maria will lead MPTC’s strategic growth while strengthening its customer-centric approach to serve millions of motorists and the commuting public across its tollway network. He will help optimize the company’s operations while steering its continued expansion of toll road businesses in the Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam.
Santa Maria has more than three decades of leadership experience in corporate governance, financial restructuring, and large-scale operations. He previously served as president and chief operating officer of Philip -
mated 437 households to help them turn on essential appliances such as LED lamps, AM/FM radio, mobile phones, DC television, and electric fans. The units will allow children to study at night, enable families to engage in small livelihood activities beyond daylight, reduce their dependence on kerosene or other costly fuel sources which may be hazardous for the forests.
“As NPC implements various livelihood programs in our watershed communities, the SHS units are expected to improve socio-economic outcomes and also promote sustainable energy sources,” added Roxas. As part of their shared responsibility on total electrification, NPC and DOE will soon distribute another 674 units of SHS to the former’s watershed communities in Upper Agno River Watershed in Benguet, San Roque Watershed in Pangasinan and Benguet, Buhi-Barit Watershed in Camarines Sur, Tiwi Watershed in Albay, and Pulangi Watershed in Bukidnon. Lenie Lectura
earning a commendation that affirms its potential as a promising new residential community in Metro Davao,” added the affiliate of listed Alsons Consolidated Resources Inc. The Narra Park Residences Avia is a 13-hectare residential community inside Avia Estate, Alsons Dev’s first major project outside Davao and the first township in the Soccsksargen Region. This region groups the rich rice-growing plains of the Cotabato provinces in southern Mindanao. The Narra Park Residences Avia is an exclusive community of expertlyconstructed, high-quality homes located within a lush and well-planned township, the company added.
The Avia Estate, on the other hand, is a master-planned, mixeduse township located in Alabel, Sarangani and features prime residential communities, first-class leisure amenities, wide retail and commercial offerings, reputable educational institutions, and government support facilities, all in one address. Manuel T. Cayon
pine Airlines Inc., where he guided the flag carrier through a successful business pivot and Chapter 11 restructuring during the COVID-19 pandemic.
MPTC also announced changes in other key leadership positions. Luis S. Reñon will assume the role of president and general manager of NLEX Corp., while Andrew B. Pangilinan of Metro Pacific Water Solutions Inc. will concurrently take on the role of President and General Manager of MPT South, which manages Cavitex and Calax. Meanwhile, Marisa V. Conde, vice president for technical finance, S&A at MPIC, will join MPTC as officerin-charge and interim chief finance officer.
The MPTC is the country’s largest toll road developer and operator. It manages major expressways including the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway (Cavitex), Cavite-Laguna Expressway (Calax), Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and the NLEX Connector Road. It also oversees expanding toll road operations in Indonesia and Vietnam. VG Cabuag
THIS Wednesday, August 27, 2025, photo shows Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang (second right) and iSON Tower Chairman Vivek Gupta closing a deal for digital infrastructure development across BCDA properties. Witnessing the MOU signing are BCDA Chairman Hilario
Banking&Finance
Building the Workforce of the Future: The Cebu Academe-Industry Alliance
THE Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), through its A-MUST Initiative, recognizes the critical role of cross-sectoral alliances in driving inclusive and sustainable economic development in Cebu. A-MUST stands for Academe and industry; Meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE); Utilities (water, power and telecommunications); Sustainability and environment stewardship, and Trade and logistics.
Among these, the Cebu AcademeIndustry Alliance (CAIA) serves as a vital platform to bridge gaps between educational institutions and industry sectors, ensuring alignment of skills, innovation, research, and workforce development with the evolving needs of the economy.
Why the Alliance matters FOR many years, a recurring issue in Cebu, as in many regions in the country, has been the gap between what schools teach and what industries need. Employers often note a mismatch in skills while graduates struggle to find meaningful employment despite their credentials. This disconnect hampers, not only the competitiveness of companies, but also the aspirations of young people and the sustainable growth of the community.
The CAIA aims to close this gap by convening universities, colleges, technical and vocational institutions, private and public sector leaders, and community organizations. More than just a coordination mechanism, the Alliance is envisioned as a true partnership: a collaborative ecosystem where stakeholders can listen, learn, and co-create solutions together.
Insights from the strategic workshop
IN a recent strategic planning workshop which I facilitated, stakeholders from these sectors came together to define the purpose, mission, core values, and future direction of CAIA. The session highlighted a shared recognition: neither academe nor industry can succeed in isolation. Instead, progress will come from pooling expertise, aligning curricula with labor market demands, and opening pathways for innovation and lifelong learning.
The workshop produced several important outcomes: n A shared purpose and mission statement that emphasize bridging academe and industry for Cebu’s in-
clusive and sustainable development n Strategic objectives around workforce readiness, innovation partnerships, policy advocacy, and collaborative projects that deliver measurable results n A governance framework ensuring that decisions are inclusive, transparent, and accountable to all stakeholders
n A roadmap that sets both immediate priorities such as internships, research collaboration, and communication platforms as well as long-term goals for institutionalizing the Alliance
One clear highlight was the spirit of collaboration that emerged throughout the workshop. Despite diverse perspectives, participants found common ground in the belief that Cebu’s future prosperity depends on preparing its people with the right skills, values, and opportunities.
The urgency of this initiative cannot be overstated. The global economy is being reshaped by technology, sustainability imperatives, and shifting trade patterns. With its vibrant industries and rich academic landscape, Cebu is well-positioned to adapt and lead. To do so, its stakeholders must act in concert rather than in silos.
Call to action
ACHIEVING the goal of making Cebu the education capital of the Philippines requires more than intent—it demands committed partnerships, shared accountability, and sustained innovation. Through the CAIA, Cebu has the opportunity to redefine how education and industry collaborate to shape a resilient, future-ready society.
Collectively, the CAIA can transform Cebu into a national model for academe-industry synergy, one that empowers its people, drives economic growth, and inspires other regions to follow suit.
Octavio Peralta is the founder and volunteer CEO of the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives, the “association of associations.” The PCAAE will hold its 13th Annual Associations Summit on November 6, 2025, at the Clark Freeport Zone. The views he expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the BusinessMirror E-mail: bobby@pcaae.org.
ONLINE gaming has brought in P69 billion in license fees in the first seven months of the year, making it the government’s consistent top revenue source, according to a top official of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor).
In his report to the House Committee on Games and Amusements, Pagcor Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco said P41 billion of the amount came from electronic games (e-games). Other online game offerings contributed P28 billion.
“Because of its huge potential, online gaming has become an important source of funds for our nation-building commitments, including Pagcor’s support for education, health care, and community development,” Tengco said.
As such, online gaming contributed P27.47 billion to nation-building as of end-July, funding corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, including P14.72 billion for the Universal Health Care Law.
Pagcor’s flagship CSR projects, such as the construction of school buildings, socio-civic centers, wellness facilities and E-Learning hubs, also benefit from the industry’s strong performance.
“Every peso we collect from the
Mining law seen to pump P6.26B in annual revenues
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
THE government stands to gain an additional P6.26 billion in annual revenues from a newlyenacted law that imposes a unified tax system for the sector, the Department of Finance (DOF) believes.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act (RA) 12253, or the Enhanced Fiscal Regime for Large-Scale Metallic Mining Act, on September 4.
According to the DOF, the measure is projected to generate an estimated average annual incremental revenue of P6.26 billion.
The DOF said this ensures the government’s fair share of revenues by subjecting mines outside mineral reservations to royalty tax and all
Hlarge-scale metallic mining operations to a windfall profits tax.
As such, the new regime introduces a 5-tier royalty rate, ranging from 1 percent to 5 percent for mines outside mineral reservations.
A royalty is the share of the government from the extraction of nonrenewable resources.
A minimum royalty rate of 0.1 percent on gross output for mines below the margin threshold, as well as a 5-tier windfall profits tax rang-
IGHER taxes on sweetened beverages and new levies on unhealthy ultra-processed products are being pushed by reform advocates to curb non-communicable diseases and raise more revenues to fund health and nutrition programs.
The nongovernment Action for Economic Reforms (AER) said the tax rate on sweetened beverages must be adjusted to recover its real value.
“Cumulative inflation since the tax on sweetened beverages was passed in 2018 has eroded the value of the sweetened beverage tax rate,” read the statement the AER issued last Thursday.
The Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (Train) law, enacted in 2018, imposed a tax on sweetened beverages. According to the group, the law had proven effective in reducing consumption and generating public revenues.
Under the law, an excise tax of P6 per liter was imposed on sugary drinks using purely caloric sweeteners. A P12 per liter excise tax on sugary drinks using high fructose corn syrup also took effect.
However, the AER argued that the tax is only a one-time increase and its efficiency in curbing consumption weakens over time due to sustained inflation.
“To remain effective, the policy needs to be automatically adjusted for inflation and cover other exemptions to sustain its effectiveness,” it said.
Apart from keeping up with inflation, AER said raising the sweetened beverage tax would help lower the risks of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.
gaming sector translates to meaningful projects such as classrooms for our children, health programs for our people, and safe spaces for communities in times of calamity. This is how we ensure that gaming directly benefits Filipinos,” Tengco said. However, he cautioned that the rise of illegal online gaming operators poses a threat, enticing players of all ages without proper safeguards.
“These illegal sites not only deprive the government of much-needed revenues but also expose Filipino players to numerous risks,” Tengco said.
He vowed stronger enforcement against such platforms and said that “Pagcor is committed to strengthening regulation and enforcement to ensure that only legitimate and properly monitored operators are allowed to operate.”
Data from Pagcor showed that the e-games sector contributed over half, or P114.83 billion of the Philippine gaming industry’s P214.75-billion gross gaming revenues (GGR) as of the first half of this year. The GGR of the e-games sector surged by 82.67 percent from P62.86 billion in the same period a year ago.
The e-games sector consists of ebingo, e-casino, sports betting and online poker, among others. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on data sharing to better monitor the labor market conditions and craft relevant policies to ensure price stability.
In a statement, the BSP said the MOU will allow the central bank to get access to DOLE’s data sets that can be used to produce researches to aid policymaking.
“The MOU strengthens our ability to see the whole picture. With secure and timely data sharing, we can respond faster and smarter,” BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. was quoted as saying in the statement.
“Together, we can align our policies to serve the Filipino people better. I am excited for what this partnership will bring. Good data lead to good policy, and good policy leads to good progress,” Remolona added.
Under the MOU, both parties commit to uphold data privacy and security, in accordance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and relevant guidelines from the National Privacy Commission.
Access to labor market datasets will enable the BSP to help DOLE strengthen its employment policies. BSP said these future researches
ing from 1 percent to 10 percent, will also be imposed.
Moreover, as safeguards to limit the amount of tax-deductible borrowing cost arising from relatedparty debt, a 2:1 debt-to-equity ratio or a thin capitalization rule will also be established.
In order to prevent companies from offsetting losses from more profitable projects, the law also implements a ring-fencing rule on a project-by-project basis.
This will prohibit the consolidation of income and expenses of all mining projects by the same taxpayer.
Further, the measure mandates the public disclosure of data and establishes a multi-stakeholder mechanism to facilitate participatory governance, in line with international standards for open and accountable extractive resource management.
“This law will ensure the protection of our environment and that the revenues from our mineral re-
It added that the measure could also lay the foundation for a more comprehensive health tax package—one that already includes tobacco, alcohol and eventually, unhealthy ultra-processed food products (UPPs).
“Just as the SB tax addresses the harms of sweetened beverages, implementing a nutrientbased tax on unhealthy packaged foods can reduce consumption of products high in sugar, salt, and fats—nutrients of concern that contribute to diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and other non-communicable diseases,” AER said.
A 20-percent tax on unhealthy processed products could prevent 2,700 deaths, 21,700 cases of diabetes, 13,600 heart attacks and 5,000 strokes, according to a study cited by AER from Johns Hopkins University and the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute.
At the same time, it could generate an estimated P648 billion over 20 years to bankroll nutrition and health programs.
The presentation of the Department of Finance at a hearing of the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives last Wednesday revealed that new expenditures far exceed new revenues.
“This tax isn’t just about raising funds—it’s about protecting the health of the population. By cutting down on unhealthy products, it helps people live healthier lives, reduces medical expenses, and supports universal health care programs, especially those that provide nutrition for children and care for mothers,” the AER said. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto and Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
will also sharpen labor market strategies and improve the delivery of employment facilitation services.
“We at DOLE are optimistic and confident that this strategic partnership will drive progress that genuinely reaches all Filipinos, especially our jobseekers—ultimately strengthening our employment facilitation services, our nation’s workforce, and elevating the quality of employment available to every Filipino,” Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma said through the statement.
Earlier, the DOLE announced that over a million minimum wage earners in the National Capital Region are set to receive a P50 daily pay increase starting in July. DOLE said the figure represented considerations of economic balance and fairness to both workers and employers.
The largest alliance of employers said they “respect” the order and will live with it, but labor groups called it a pittance, barely enough to meet the needs of struggling workers.
Still, the increase marks the biggest wage adjustment ever approved by Metro Manila’s Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2025/07/01/dole-orders-P50-wage-hikefor-ncr-workers/ ).
sources will be returned to the people through quality jobs, more developed communities, and improved public services,” Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto was quoted as saying in a statement issued by his office. In particular, 10 perfect of the royalty collected from mines within mineral reservations will be invested in mineral exploration and research. The funds will also be used to set up laboratories and provide the Bureau of Internal Revenue with specialized tools to properly oversee and validate mineral resource valuation for taxation purposes.
“The DOF is committed to implementing this law swiftly, efficiently, and with full transparency. We will also continue to engage with all stakeholders to ensure that the law delivers on its promise,” Recto said. The rationalization of the mining fiscal regime is one of the DOF’s priority tax measures and part of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council’s (Ledac) priority measures for the 19th Congress.
THE Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) has renewed its partnership with the Citibank, N.A. Manila Branch and the Philippine Clearing House Corp. (PCHC) for their continued operation and enhancement of the Philippine Domestic Dollar Transfer System (PDDTS) and the Payment-versus-Payment (PvP) System. In a statement issued last Thursday, the BAP said the agreement was formally signed during a ceremony on August 28, 2025. The agreement extends their collaboration until August 17, 2030.
The PDDTS and PvP systems, established by the BAP, have long supported financial stability, liquidity management, and efficient settlement across the banking sector.
“This milestone gives us the opportunity to reflect on how far we have come and to recognize the collective efforts that brought us here. The success of the PDDTS/ PvP has always been a story of collaboration — among our committees, our partners, and the broader financial community,” TG Limcaoco, President of the Bankers Association of the Philippines.
Launched in 1995, PDDTS enables real-time domestic U.S. dollar transfers among participating Philippine banks, while PvP, introduced in 2003, reduces settlement risk in cross-currency transactions. In 2022, both systems were recognized and designated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) as systematically important payment systems (SIPS).
Under the renewed partnership, BAP, Citi Philippines, and PCHC commits to undertake system enhancements, including improved IT infrastructure and service levels targeting 99.5 percent system uptime.
Efforts will also be geared toward faster incident response, proactive maintenance notifications, and upgraded business continuity protocols to ensure stronger disaster recovery and operational resilience.
Further, the BAP said the PDDTS will transition its account interest calculations from London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) to the Effective Federal Funds Rate (EFFR).
“Citi Philippines is grateful for the opportunity to continue being the country’s sole settlement bank for PDDTS and to continue working with the PCHC, BAP, and the BSP in making a mark—not just on our industry, but in the lives of our clients and the Filipino people,” Citibank Manila Branch Managing Director Paul A. Favila was quoted as saying in a statement.
The BAP said this renewed partnership will allow the banking sector to benefit from stronger alignment with global payment systems, greater efficiency in domestic USD settlements, and enhanced support for financial market stability and industry innovation.
These developments also reinforce operational stability and regulatory compliance, guided by the BSP in its critical roles as Operator of PhilPass, Settlement Bank for the PHP leg of PvP transactions, and primary regulator of all designated payments in the country.
“[The] PCHC is proud to strengthen its partnership with the BAP and Citi Philippines in advancing the PDDTS and PvP system. As the Clearing Operator and Operator of a Designated Payment System, we deliver seamless, efficient, and resilient operations that safeguard and power our financial system,” PCHC President and CEO Emmanuel E. Barcena was quoted in the same statement as saying. As the owner and governing body of both systems, the BAP continues to drive efforts
Octavio Peralta
A ssociation World
Worries about �lying seem to be taking off. Here’s how to cope with in-�light anxiety
BY MIKE STOBBE The Associated Press
NEW YORK—Adelynn Campbell’s last plane trip ended with a panic attack that she got through largely with the help of a kind flight attendant. That was last year—before 67 people died in January when an American Airlines jet collided with a helicopter over Washington, DC, in the deadliest US air disaster in almost a quarter century.
Now, Campbell is even more hesitant to book a flight. “It’s definitely spiked my concern about getting on a plane and it’s making the whole situation a little more stressful than it used to be,” said Campbell, 30, who manages a coffee shop in San Diego.
Being at least a little nervous about flying is understandable. As Mel Brooks once said: “If God wanted us to fly, He would have given us tickets.” But for some people, it causes deep anxiety that could require professional help.
Here’s a look at air travel anxiety and ways to cope with it:
■ More people seem to be nervous about flying: The evidence is anecdotal, but psychologists and flight attendants say they’ve seen and heard increased worries—and not only in people who already had anxieties about flying.
“Even people who didn’t have a fear of flying are talking about it, given recent events,” said Jennifer Dragonette, a California-based psychologist who treats people with air travel anxieties.
US air travel was down in March and early April compared with last year, according to TSA statistics. Airlines have attributed the decline to economic uncertainty, a decline in government and corporate travel and—yes—concern about recent aviation incidents.
FAA officials recently acknowledged they weren’t doing enough to ensure air safety. Recent polling by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that fewer Americans report feeling safe about flying this year.
Flight attendants who work planes out of the Washington, DC, airport were particularly rattled by the January collision, said Sara Nelson, president of the Association of Flight Attendants union. Some asked for time off to process their emotions, and at least one flight attendant left the job, she said.
■ What is fear of flying? Fear of flying— sometimes called aerophobia—goes beyond just being nervous about a flight. It is an intense form of anxiety that centers on certain aspects of air travel. Many aerophobes get most rattled during take-off
and landing, or when they think about being locked in a plane.
Some research has suggested it affects about 25 million US adults. Psychologists say it often surfaces in adulthood, developing in people who didn’t mind flying as kids but grew more rattled as they aged.
In many cases, it starts when people are in their 20s or 30s, at a time they are experiencing big life changes and new responsibilities—like getting married or becoming a parent—and they start to think that “everything counts,” said David Carbonell, a Chicago-based psychologist who authored a workbook to help people cope with flying fears.
A bad flight with heavy turbulence or some other problem may trigger an anxiety that persists, he said.
Campbell, who has other forms of anxiety, developed a fear of flying a few years ago. She is transgender, and said travel can be stressful because of concerns about how she’ll be treated by airport security or in other interactions.
Aerophobia can be complicated, Carbonell said. For many people, it’s not so much a fear of crashing as it is claustrophobic feelings of being in an enclosed cabin and not having control.
Campbell said that’s what she experiences: “feeling trapped and unable to breathe.”
Nelson said flight attendants regularly deal with
suffering passengers: “We’ve had people have panic attacks, and we’ve had to give them oxygen. It can be quite intense.”
■ How to cope with flying anxiety: Statistics have long shown that airliners are probably the safest way to travel. According to the National Safety Council, the odds of dying in an airplane crash are too low to be calculated, based on 2023 statistics— making them far, far lower than of being killed in a motor vehicle crash or, for that matter, walking on a sidewalk or crossing a street.
But experts say you can’t really reason your way out of an anxiety disorder.
Carbonell spends little time on statistics, telling patients: “I know you already looked at them all, and they’re not helping you.”
For people with milder levels of aerophobia, deep breathing often works. Longer exhales help the body relax, said Dragonette, who counseled Campbell for aerophobia and other anxiety disorders at a Newport Healthcare residential facility in Temecula, California.
People suffering more extreme cases can be helped with exposure therapy. It can start by simply getting patients to become comfortable looking at photos of planes, watching videos of planes flying safely,
THE Department of Trade and Industry, in partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority, supported by the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan program, officially opened the 2025 Coconut Philippines Trade Fair at Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall.
The event gathered different exhibitors coming from different parts of the country to showcase one of the country’s proudest industries. DTI and PCA hope to entice more Filipinos to support the country’s
coconut industry by visiting some of its best products yet. The trade fair ran from August 28 to September 2, 2025.
Now in its second year, the fair has grown tremendously compared to its inaugural run in 2024. From a modest beginning, it has expanded into a national showcase with 220 exhibitors representing Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
The trade fair gathered farmer beneficiaries, micro, small, and medium enterprises, and innovators who presented
everything from food and beverages to skincare, wellness, and lifestyle creations.
The expansion reflected the growing momentum of the coconut industry and the increasing demand for value-added products in the Philippines.
The trade fair also served as the official launch of Coconut Nation, a broader campaign that will continue into 2026 with more initiatives to strengthen and modernize the industry. The aim is not only to sustain the coconut as a top global export but also
to make it a product embraced by Filipino families at home.
“The fair shows that our coconut industry is more than raw materials. It is about proudly made finished products that compete in international markets and that should have a stronger place in the daily lives of Filipinos,” said Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque.
For more details and updates, follow @ dti.bmdpo on Instagram, Facebook, and Tiktok
Eugenia Last
manner. Set
with those who try to
(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Recap
and refrain from
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You’ll know instinctively when a
is
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don’t rely on outside influences to dictate what you do next. Trust your instincts and ask for what you want in writing. Avoid unnecessary expenses and those who ask for too much.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Keep your thoughts and plans to yourself. Emotions will fluctuate throughout the day. Remain calm, examine every angle and take a rational approach to counter any obstacles that may arise. Consider what you want to achieve, and demonstrate discipline and ingenuity in turning your plans into a concrete reality. ★★
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Look for the good in everyone and everything. How you approach others will make a difference in the outcome. Don’t expect everyone to agree with you. If you take a compromising position and a positive attitude, negotiations will fall into place. Criticize less, take a closer look at yourself and make positive improvements. 4 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Be honest with yourself when it comes to money, health and legal matters. It is best to take a realistic approach to life and utilize your strengths to accommodate your needs. Refuse to spend on unnecessary goods or on someone you want to impress. Use your sharp wit and charm to reach your goal.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Let your emotions lead the way and your energy play out fairly and with positive intentions. A change to your surroundings, lifestyle or attitude will give you the boost you need to shine brightly when dealing with others. Put your energy where it counts, and the rewards will be forthcoming. Romance is in the stars. ★★★
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Use reason when dealing with your peers, and you’ll gain acceptance. Refuse to let the changes others
TUMANDOK of Southern Lantern Studios and Terminal Six Post leads with 11 nominations in this year’s selection by the oldest and reputably most prestigious critics group in the country, the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino. This is followed by Kono Basho from the Cinemalaya Foundation Inc., Project 8 Projects, and Mentorque Productions, with 10 nominations. Rounding up the top three films is Green Bones, an offering of GMA Pictures, GMA Public Affairs, and Brightburn Entertainment, with 8.
Tumandok, which literally means “one who belongs to a place,” is the story of the persistent struggle of the Atis to own the land where they live. The film is poetry and politics of displacement running parallel to the problem of landlessness and injustice all over the country. It is the first attempt of two young filmmakers (Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay and Richard Jeroui Salvadico) to go into full-length feature films. The two are real-life husband and wife.
A wistful meditation on the 2011 Great East Japan earthquake, which brought together two estranged half-sisters, Kono Basho locates notions of family, the self and love in spaces of cultures. The two leads, Gabby Padilla and Arisa Nakano, are both nominated for Best Actress. It may interest the audience that Arisa Nakano is in a 2024 film called Perfect Days, directed by Wim Wenders and starring Koji Yakusho. Kono Basho is the directorial debut of visual artist Jaime Pacena. Competing for Best Film is Alipato at Muog, the documentary by JL Burgos, which chronicles the forcible disappearance of his brother, Jonas Burgos, by suspected military personnel in 2007. The nominations for Documentary and Short Film will be announced separately at a later date. The Gawad Urian will be held in De La Salle University on October 11, 2025. Details to be released soon.
THE NOMINEES
BEST FILM
n Alipato at Muog (Pulang Langgam Media Productions)
n Green Bones (GMA Pictures, GMA Public Affairs, Brightburn Entertainment)
n Kono Basho (Cinemalaya Foundation Inc., Project 8 Projects, Mentorque Productions)
n Phantosmia (Black Cap Pictures, TEN17P, Sine Olivia Pilipinas)
n Rizal’s Makamisa: Pantasma ng Higanti i (Kamias Overground, Rapid Eye Movies)
Worries about flying seem to be taking off. Here’s how to cope with in-flight anxiety
Continued from B4
or putting on a virtual reality headset that shows recordings of being inside a plane, Dragonette said.
It’s a matter of getting patients to learn to live with their feelings and better handle them.
Carbonell recommends patients take practice flights that do not involve work trips or any other responsibilities. When they have symptoms, he recommends they keep a written inventory.
“They’re keeping a simple count,” he said. “We’re using counting as a proxy for acceptance.”
It’s OK to ask for help: Nelson, who was a longtime United Airlines flight attendant, says: “I’ve had situations where I’d sort of sit in the aisle and hold someone’s hand.”
On a Frontier Airlines flight last year from Detroit to San Diego, Campbell tried breathing and other coping skills, but they didn’t halt her panic attack. The passenger next to her noticed she was increasingly anxious, and summoned a flight attendant.
The flight attendant took deep breaths with Campbell and helped her get through it, and also took down Campbell’s phone number and checked on her a day later.
“I was really impressed,” she said.
n The Hearing (Pelikulaw, Center Stage Productions)
n Tumandok (Southern Lantern Studios, Terminal Six Post)
BEST DIRECTION
n JL Burgos, Alipato at Muog
n Zig Madamba Dulay, Green Bones
n Jaime Pacena II, Kono Basho
n Lav Diaz, Phantosmia
n Khavn, Rizal’s Makamisa: Pantasma ng Higanti
n Lawrence Fajardo, The Hearing
n Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay and Richard Jeroui Salvadico, Tumandok
BEST SCREENPLAY
n JL Burgos and Bernardine De Belen, Alipato at Muog
n Ricky Lee and Anj Atienza, Green Bones
n Jaime Pacena II, Kono Basho
n Honeylyn Joy Alipio, The Hearing
n Arden Rod Condez and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay, Tumandok
BEST ACTRESS
n Lovi Poe, Guilty Pleasure
n Aicelle Santos, Isang Himala
n Gabby Padilla, Kono Basho
n Arisa Nakano, Kono Basho
n Mylene Dizon, The Hearing
n Jenaica Sangher, Tumandok
BEST ACTOR
n Carlo Aquino, Crosspoint
n Baron Geisler, Dearly Beloved
n Dennis Trillo, Green Bones
n Ruru Madrid, Green Bones
n Sid Lucero, Outside
n Ronnie Lazaro, Phantosmia
n Enzo Osorio, The Hearing
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS
n Kei Kurosawa, Crosspoint
n Chanda Romero, Espantaho
n Bituin Escalante, Isang Himala
n Kakki Teodoro, Isang Himala
n Ina Feleo, The Hearing
n Rowena Sangher, Tumandok
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR
n Takehiro Hira, Crosspoint
n Art Acuña, An Errand
n David Ezra, Isang Himala
n Nor Domingo, The Hearing
n Felipe Ganancial, Tumandok
BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN
n JL Burgos, Alipato at Muog
n Marxie Maolen Fadul, Green Bones
n Eero Yves Francisco, Kono Basho
n Lav Diaz, Phantosmia
n Zeus Bascon, Rizal’s Makamisa: Pantasma ng Higanti
n Lynne Belle Salvadico, Tumandok
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
n JL Burgos, Alipato at Muog
n Neil Daza, Green Bones
n Dan Villegas, Kono Basho
n Lav Diaz, Phantosmia
n Pabelle Manikan, Tumandok
BEST EDITING
n JL Burgos, Alipato at Muog
n Marya Ignacio, Kono Basho
n Furan Guillermo, Rizal’s Makamisa: Pantasma ng Higanti
n Lawrence Fajardo and Ysabelle Denoga, The Hearing
n Pabelle Manikan, Tumandok
BEST MUSIC
n Len Calvo, Green Bones
n Vincent De Jesus, Isang Himala
n Len Calvo, Kono Basho
GMA REGIONAL TV HITS 1M YOUTUBE SUBSCRIBERS, LAUNCHES LIVESTREAMING
AS media giant GMA Network celebrates its 75th anniversary, its regional arm GMA Regional TV (RTV, www.gmaregionaltv.com) solidifies its commitment to delivering local news to Filipinos across the country by reaching another digital milestone: logging one million subscribers on its official YouTube channel.
This latest achievement reinforces RTV’s dedication to its “Local News Matters” campaign, which highlights the importance of community and regional news and shared commitment to GMA Integrated News’ “mas malaking misyon at mas malawak na paglilingkod sa bayan.”
The GMA Regional TV YouTube channel is the goto source for top stories from RTV’s award-winning local newscasts.
These include the North Central Luzon newscast (now known as One North Central Luzon) which has been on-air for 17 years; the nearly 26-year-old newscast in Visayas, Balitang Bisdak; and the newscasts in Western Visayas and Mindanao, now known as the pioneering unified newscasts One Western Visayas and One Mindanao, respectively.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support of our viewers from all over the regions in the country who have made this milestone possible,” says senior vice president and head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso.
“Reaching one million subscribers on YouTube is a testament to GMA Regional TV team’s hard work and unwavering commitment to providing relevant
and accurate news and information from the regions. And as part of our celebration of the network’s 75th anniversary, we are excited to further connect with our audience through our upcoming livestreaming initiative, making local news even more accessible to everyone through our YouTube channel and Facebook pages.”
Currently, the GMA Regional TV YouTube channel already hosts the Balitanghali livestream, which features a segment from Regional TV News, as well as live coverage of the country’s grandest festivals. Soon, viewers will be able to watch these newscasts live on their official Facebook pages.
GMA Regional TV’s continuous efforts and outstanding work have consistently earned it industry recognition. It was named the Best Regional TV Network for the eighth consecutive year at the Platinum Stallion Media Awards. Additionally, its GMA Masterclass series, which has reached over 50,000 attendees, has been honored with multiple awards, including The Most Development Oriented TV Plug at the Gandingan 2020: The 14th UPLB Isko’t Iska Multimedia Awards and the Excellence Award at the 18th Philippine Quill Awards. The GMA Masterclass: Eleksyon 2025 Dapat Totoo Series is also a key part of GMA Network Inc.’s groundbreaking Panata Kontra-Fake News campaign, which was named Best Multi-Platform Campaign at the prestigious Asia Pacific Broadcasting+ Awards.
n David Toop, Khavn and The Kontra-Kino Orchestra, Rizal’s Makamisa: Pantasma ng Higanti
n Paulo Almaden, The Ati People of Kabarangkalan and Nagpana, Tumandok
BEST SOUND
n Ronaldo de Asis, Crosspoint
n Albert Michael Idioma and Emilio Bien Sparks, Isang Himala
n Allen Roy Santos, Kono Basho
n Jannina Mikaela Minglanilla and Michaela Docena, The Hearing
n Lamberto Casas, Jr., Alexis Tomboc, Kevin Padilla, Tumandok
Jeremy G ‘more authentic’ with new EP ‘ODDicted’
By Patrick Villanueva
AUTHENTICITY makes the connection between artist and audience feel more remarkable. And, that’s exactly what Jeremy Glinoga offers with his new EP (extended play) ODDicted to his listeners.
Much like most artists, he is not a stranger to having a “mental block,” especially when working on several projects not just for himself, but also writing and producing titles for other artists. This led to him taking a hiatus for his music.
During a media interview in the listening party for his comeback album, he revealed that after working on his previous album Late Night Madness, he lost “inspiration” writing for himself. “I lost inspiration trying to write for myself. Like, I would try to write for myself, pero walang lumalabas, or I felt like it wasn’t good enough,” Jeremy told the media.
Fortunately for him, his work with other artists played a big role in regaining composure and inspiration to his work. “Working with other artists, I feel like it built my musical sense and capabilities...it helped me develop an inspiration even more, helped me develop the capabilities that I can do as a producer, songwriter,” the Star Music singer-songwriter replied.
Being behind-the-scenes also benefited Jeremy in upstaging his conflict with inspiration, saying that during his “hiatus” he came to appreciate more the work that goes on behind it. It came with his realization that “people appreciate the work of an artist.”
And in his latest ODDicted, we see the talents of an artist fully capable of transforming his past struggle to an inspired, authentic work.
“More authentic,” Jeremy said, “this is the most where I’ve been vulnerable. Where I’ve been the most carefree in terms of ‘this is what I wanted to absorb’” is his definition of the music that he writes for himself today. “This version of myself is the most transparent I have ever been sa music ko personally,” he added.
He also told the media that listening to this EP for the first time made him feel emotional and vulnerable, especially after learning that the audiences had a great reception to it. “It really opened my eyes and showed me how vulnerable I can be without getting scared of the reception,” he said.
u,” “so good,” “why me?”) and two versions of “Parking Lot,” where he shares writing credits with Darren Ashwell and Chie Filomeno.
YouTube.
A SCENE from Kono Basho
Conrad Manila Celebrates Back-to-Back Triumphs in Business, Culinary Excellence
Conrad Manila proudly announces its latest, prestigious accolades that affirm the hotel’s leadership in both the corporate travels industry and culinary landscapes of the Philippines. Held in Bangkok, Thailand, Conrad Manila has been named Best Meetings Hotel –Philippines at the 2025 M&C Asia Stella Awards. Meanwhile, the hotel’s culinary team earned a total of 16 medals at the recently concluded Philippine Culinary Cup 2025 at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, across a range of competitive categories.
The “Best Meetings Hotel –Philippines” recognition at the 2025 M&C Asia Stella Awards highlights Conrad Manila’s exceptional meeting facilities, world-class venues, and heartfelt service. Representing the hotel at the awards ceremony was Joanne Gomez, Commercial Director of Conrad Manila, who accepted the honor on behalf of the team. The M&C Asia Stella Awards celebrate organizations that elevate the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry across Asia, spotlighting innovation, sustainability, and excellence in hospitality.
Complementing this achievement, Conrad Manila’s culinary team earned four silver and twelve bronze from both individual and team categories at the 2025 Philippine Culinary Cup, reflecting their dedication to artistry, innovation, and the spirit of collaboration. Led by Executive Chef Nicolas de Visch, the chefs competed in several categories - from wedding cakes and Filipino cuisine to U.S. meats and pastry showpieces - showcasing techniques that balance contemporary
elegance with global inspiration, a hallmark of the Conrad brand.
Award Highlights: Silver Medalists:
Wedding Cakes: Chef Doreen Valencia
U.S. Lamb: Chef Antonio Dolido
Pasta: Chef Kryshiel Acidera
Filipino Cuisine (Team): Chef Mariel Constantino & Chef Charles Palermo
Bronze Medalists: Filipino Dessert: Chef Jumelle Raymundo
Bread Pastry Showpiece: Chef Andrian Buizon
Chocolate Pastry Showpiece (2 medals): Chef Jumelle Raymundo & Chef Joseph Ledesma
U.S. Beef (2 medals): Chef Maria Richelle
Ann Constantino & Chef Christian De Guia
U.S. Pork (2 medals): Chef Arlene Tapiador & Chef Charles Palermo
U.S. Lamb: Chef Kryshiel Acidera Poultry (2 medals): Chef Christian De Guia & Chef Bencent Chiquito
Dream Team Challenge: Chef Kevin Borbon, Chef Rachelyn Bautista, & Chef
AFTER a seven-year hiatus, Harringtons Lifestyle Auctions proudly announces its return with Remnants of the Past, a landmark auction celebrating history, artistry, and timeless craftsmanship to be held on September 6, 2025, 2:30 pm at The Rockwell Club, Palm Grove, Makati City with viewing schedules on September 4 to 6, 2025. Remnants of the Past unveils a collection featuring Masterpieces of Philippine Art –including works by National Artist Vicente Manansala, the dreamlike hues of Juvenal Sansó, a radiant glass sculpture by Ramon Orlina, and a commanding bronze by Ed Castillo. Exquisite Furniture, both European and Filipino, each showcasing artistry, history, and timeless design. Rare Jewelry, from vintage heirlooms to contemporary creations. Cultural
Andrian Buizon
“This remarkable achievement is a powerful affirmation of our team’s dedication to crafting seamless, inspired experiences, whether through elevated business events or unforgettable culinary journeys,” shared Fabio Berto, General Manager of Conrad Manila. “It reflects the precision, creativity, and deep passion that define our people. Their pursuit of excellence enhances not only our craft, but the moments we create for every guest, every day.”
Guests are invited to experience the award-winning culinary artistry across Conrad Manila’s signature dining venues, including Brasserie on 3, China Blue by Jereme Leung, C Lounge, Sails Pool Bar, and Bru Coffee Bar. With these awards, Conrad Manila continues to raise the bar for luxury hospitality, whether hosting world-class meetings or crafting unforgettable culinary journeys.
For more information, please call +632 8833 9999, visit www.conradmanila.com or email conradmanila@conradhotels.com.
Relics & Collectibles, treasures that speak to heritage, memory, and legacy.
This auction also marks a milestone partnership with Rockwell Club and Rockwell Atletica whose commitment to excellence and elevated living reflects the Harringtons vision. Together, they curated a space where art, culture, and community converge.
With Remnants of the Past, Harringtons signals the beginning of a new chapter that promises future auctions dedicated to rare finds, artistic mastery, and meaningful experiences.
Whether to collect, discover, or admire, Harringtons invites everyone to be part of this exciting return. A gathering of treasures curated for collectors, connoisseurs, and those who value history and heritage.
How to Spend Your Long Weekend at McKinley Hill
DURING long weekends, the best kind of reset might just be the one that comes with something unexpected around every corner. Tucked away in the city of Taguig, McKinley Hill continues to be the getaway destination in the city, where energy meets escape—without the need for plane tickets or extensive planning. Whether you’re flying solo, bringing the kids, rallying the whole barkada, or going on a
DigiPlus pioneers 24/7 CX operational powerhouse
IGIPLUS Interactive Corporation, the driving force behind the brands BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, continues to enhance its customer experience (CX) by offering round-the-clock player support, setting a new standard in the industry. With over 40 million registered users, DigiPlus is steadily expanding its customer service operations to ensure timely assistance across account management, transaction support, technical troubleshooting, and fraud prevention. Since its transition to digital operations during the pandemic, DigiPlus has fostered a vibrant and growing online community through its e-games and entertainment offerings. By bringing the excitement of gaming into the home, the company has made play more convenient, engaging, and accessible—anytime, anywhere.
As DigiPlus continues to scale its business, its customer support team has grown to over 300 dedicated members, with plans to reach 450 by year-end. This expansion underscores the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality assistance at every player interaction. By implementing a well-structured support system covering both primary and premium tiers, DigiPlus has built a customer experience framework that not only resolves issues efficiently but also drives greater player satisfaction across all touchpoints.
“The strengthening of our customer service operations plays a vital role in making certain that every player’s concern is addressed swiftly and effectively. Our goal is to elevate the level of service and guarantee timely resolution of all player issues reinforcing our unwavering commitment to player satisfaction,” said Customer Service Director Carlos Pio Feliciano. Serving a diverse user base across generations,
DigiPlus provides support through various channels, including email, chat, and calls. On average, the customer service team handles nearly million transactions per month. The most common concerns involve withdrawals, KYC (Know Your Customer) processes, game fairness, deposits, and account registration.
Representatives undergo advanced communication training covering essential areas such as product knowledge, communication techniques, conflict resolution, and technical troubleshooting. Their top priority is maintaining transparency with players, keeping them informed throughout the resolution process. “Our commitment to excellence doesn’t stop after initial training,” added Feliciano. “We provide continuous learning modules to ensure our CX representatives stay up-to-date with the latest platform updates, tools, and industry trends. This guarantees they remain equipped to address new challenges as they arise.” By investing in cutting-edge technology, ongoing training, and innovative digital solutions, DigiPlus is actively cultivating a customer-first culture rooted in trust, satisfaction, and brand loyalty. This 24/7 CX operational powerhouse reflects the company’s commitment to outstanding service and its position at the forefront of digital entertainment. For players who seek support and assistance, you may contact the following lines 24/7: BingoPlus – bingoplus.ph | cs@bingoplus.vip | (02) 8539 0282 ArenaPlus – arenaplus.ph | cs@arenaplus.vip (02) 8539 0285 GameZone – gzone.ph | cs@gamefun.pro
EVOXTERRA Inc., the exclusive distributor of Hongqi in the Philippines, launched the upgraded E-HS9 and E-QM5 Plus models as the latest additions to the luxury marque’s Philippine offerings. The launch event held last August 14, 2025 at the TDG In.Hub Atrium in Taguig, showcased the E-HS9 and E-QM5 Plus as revamped versions of two of Hongqi’s top-of-theline models, providing improved driving ranges, while maintaining Hongqi’s trademark elegance.
The E-HS9 and E-QM5 Plus models are enhanced versions of the current E-HS9 and E-QM5, two of the most popular models of Hongqi in the Philippine market. These two previous models were already renowned for their sublime mix of sophisticated design and high-end performance capabilities. Now, with the rollout of the E-HS9 and E-QM5 Plus, Hongqi continues to carry the legacy of these older models through the improved and upgraded versions.
The most significant upgrades in the E-HS9 and E-QM5 Plus take the form of their boosted single-charge driving ranges. The enhanced E-HS9 now has a driving range of 515 kilometers on a single charge, a vast improvement from the E-HS9’s driving range of 440 kilometers per single charge. Similarly, the E-QM5 Plus improves the 430 kilometer single-charge driving range to 560 kilometers, ensuring drivers can take on longer road trips with confidence.
In addition, the E-HS9 will be moving from 21-inch rims to a larger and sportier default of 22-inch rims, making its presence on the road even more dominant and commanding. The E-HS9 now boasts a premium audio system crafted by the iconic soundmaster BOSE, upgraded from 12 to 16 speakers to deliver an even more immersive and refined listening experience. The E-QM5 Plus, for its part, now comes with vented seats and cruise control to further enhance the comfort of driver and passengers, further refining Hongqi’s trademark luxury experience.
“As we roll out these new flagship vehicles, Hongqi remains committed to its goal of pushing the boundaries of innovation in the luxury electric vehicle sphere,” said Rashid Delgado, Hongqi Philippines Co-CEO, and TDG President of EvoXTerra. “We are dedicated to ensuring that every model Hongqi releases delivers the most advanced EV technology to date, wrapped inside a model of pure decadence” The reveal of the E-HS9 and E-QM5 Plus follows a series of decisive successes for Hongqi, with their other recently released models - the E-H7 and E-HS7 receiving rave reviews from Filipino auto enthusiasts. The E-HS9 Flagship will be sold at P6,480,000; while the E-QM5 Plus will be sold at P1,880,000. As Hongqi continues to firmly establish its presence in the Philippines, the E-HS9
Conrad Manila Wins “Best Meetings Hotel – Philippines” 2025 at the M&C Asia Stella Awards 2025
CX representatives at the DigiPlus Merville studio assist players with their needs and questions across all gaming platforms: BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone.
Harringtons Auction returns with remnants of the past
BMW Philippines rolls out the all-new M5 and M5 Touring electrified versions
Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
BMW in the Philippines has introduced its first electrified drive system. The German automaker’s official importer and distributor in the country, SMC Asia Car Distributors Corp., has recently introduced the seventh-generation M5 and third-generation M5 Touring plugin hybrid versions.
Unmistakably “M”
THE all-new M5 and M5 Touring feature a distinctive, athletic design with prominent wheel arch and side skirt extensions, a sculptural front apron, and an embossed “M5” logo on the C-pillar. An exceptionally high proportion of surfaces is painted in body color, and the roof features a black solid finish.
The latest M5 comes with the M Carbon exterior package, which includes a carbon roof, mirrors, and spoiler. On the other hand, a model-specific side frame design, featuring prominently flared wheel arches, muscular shoulders, and an extended roofline, differentiates the all-new M5 Touring.
The sculptural front end is shaped by large air intakes and a newly designed BMW M kidney grille, which is showcased as standard by BMW Iconic Glow contour lighting. At the back, slim rear lights extend into the car’s flanks, vertical reflectors in the outer edges, and a two-section split diffuser with two pairs of exhaust tailpipes. M light-alloy wheels (20inch at the front axle, 21-inch at the rear) come as standard and are fitted with high-performance tires.
Fresh scope
INSIDE , the latest model’s
luxurious interior is enhanced with M-specific features. The center console’s control panel houses a model-specific composition of buttons, including the Setup button, which provides direct access to the drive system configuration, Drivelogic, chassis, steering, braking system, and M xDrive, as well as the intensity of brake energy recuperation. Two overall vehicle setups can be stored and selected using the M buttons on the steering wheel. The Launch Control function is available in all the M Setup menu settings except the M xDrive system’s 2WD mode.
The M-specific control panel on the center console features a newly designed, flat-bottomed M leather steering wheel with illuminated M buttons, M multifunction seats (offering multiple electric adjustments), and the BMW Widescreen Display. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional displays the maps, navigation system, and the Augmented View function. An upgraded version of BMW iDrive features came standard based on the BMW Operating System 8.5. Other cabin features include standard Merino leather, the BMW Interaction Bar, four-zone climate control, heated front seats, ambient
Hashimoto makes maiden win in TGR Philippine Cup; LBX peek
Tof Toyota Motor Philippines’ (TMP) TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup saw Russel Cabrera, Jesse Garcia and Luis Moreno emerge winners in their respective divisions. After the highly successful second weekend race at Villar City in Cavite, the event’s third and final Race Weekend was held at the San Miguel-Clark International Speedway in Angeles Freeport, Pampanga, where the first edition was staged in March.
Allana Faith Rufo, who is Mixie Flavier’s resident racing writer at TMP public relations crew headed by Elvin Luciano, also reports that the Tamaraw one-make-race (OMR) concept made its circuit debut in the Tamaraw Sprint Race Exhibition during the final race weekend.
Driving the iconic Tamaraw were former Vios Cup champions Allan Uy, Daniel Miranda, Estefano Rivera, John Dizon, and GR Development Driver Aaron Guevara, who all did their best to push the vehicle’s limits.
The concept vehicle logged an average lap time of 2 minutes and 30 seconds, similar to the Vios CVT OMRs used by the Novice Class. It further showcased its capabilities as a racing vehicle when it crossed the
lighting with M-specific interior lighting, including a Welcome Animation, and a panoramic glass sunroof exclusive to the M5 Touring. Also standard on both is the Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, a wireless charging tray, Comfort Access, an alarm system, automatic tailgate operation, and the Professional charging cable. Among the options on the list are the M Carbon exterior package, Alcantara headliner, heated steering wheel, active seat ventilation, and a trailer hitch.
M HYBRID drive system
BOTH the latest M5 and M5 Touring are powered by the M HYBRID drive system, which combines a high-revving M TwinPower Turbo technology 4.4-liter V8 engine with an electric motor explicitly tuned. Power is transferred to the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission via the all-wheel-drive system, M xDrive, generating 727 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque. Top speed is 305 km/h with the M Driver’s Package. In all-electric operating mode, the top speed is up to 140
km/h. The high-voltage 18.6 kWh battery provides an electric range of up to 69 km (M5 Sedan) and up to 67 km (M5 Touring) in the WLTP cycle. Providing an acoustic accompaniment to the electric motor is the BMW IconicSounds Electric. This M-specific electric drive sound provides authentic responses to movements of the accelerator when the car is operating in all-electric mode.
The operating mode of the M HYBRID system can also be adjusted as desired. The new M Hybrid button allows the driver to choose between HYBRID and eCONTROL modes. The M Drive Professional adds DYNAMIC and DYNAMIC PLUS modes to the mix.
M-specific suspension tuning
THE chassis design features a double-wishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle with bespoke kinematics and elastokinematics, along with a range of other specially tuned components. The electrically assisted rack-andpinion steering, featuring M Servotronic and a variable steering ratio, has a rigid connection to the
front axle subframe. Also fitted as standard are adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers and Integral Active Steering, which steers the rear wheels by up to 1.5 degrees. Traction, agility, and directional stability all benefit from near-actuator wheel slip limitation and the networking of all control systems within the integrated transverse dynamics management setup. The M Carbon ceramic brakes are combined with an integrated braking system that offers the driver two pedal feel settings.
Assistance systems
A WIDE selection of standard systems for automated driving and parking is available. Standard specification features include Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning with lane return and steering assistance, the Evasion Assistant, the Attentiveness Assistant, and the Speed Limit Info system. The Driving Assistant Professional features an Active Cruise Control with a Stop & Go function, as well as advanced technology including Steering and Lane Control Assistant,
traffic light detection, Automatic Speed Limit Assist, and Active Navigation. Both M5 models are equipped with the Parking Assistant, including the Reversing Assistant. Meanwhile, the Parking Assistant Professional enables automated parking and maneuvering over a distance of up to 200 meters to be controlled from inside the car or via a smartphone from outside the vehicle.
Same price, more colors THE all-new M5 and M5 Touring retail for P12.790 million and come with a portable flexi charger, a 5-year comprehensive BMW warranty (or 200,000km whichever comes first), and an 8-year warranty for the electric battery (or 120,000km whichever comes first). The available color palette includes Alpine White, Marina Bay Blue Metallic, M Carbon Black Metallic, M Brooklyn Grey Metallic, M Fire Red Metallic, and Isle of Man Green Metallic. For those seeking a more exclusive touch, there are also two BMW Individual finishes, such as Frozen Deep Grey and Storm Bay Metallic.
finish line faster than a GR 86 and Vios OMR Legacy Class car during the Drag Race.
“Since the Tamaraw OMR Concept’s debut in Race Weekend 2, we’ve made significant upgrades focused on safety and handling.
As the first country to develop an OMR vehicle, it’s challenging and we have a lot of work ahead of us, but so far, we are impressed with the performance of the Tamaraw this weekend,” said TMP GR Section Supervisor JC Gaon.
Faith also said that the race weekend was filled with other thrilling activities, such as the return of the Endurance Race, where TMP President Masando Hashimoto secured his maiden win to the delight of an appreciative crowd.
PEE STOP Lexus blends good coffee and good records at Flat Six Café in Quezon City from now up to September 23 at 131 Katipunan avenue, Brgy. St. Ignatius, with the Lexus LBX on display. Guests can show their Lexus car key, and they get an exclusive complimentary drink showing what true omotenashi is all about. Parked on the first floor, the Lexus LBX proves that sophistication and sportiness can thrive in a compact package. Lexus executive Jade Sison-Mendoza says the LBX is powered by a 1.5-liter three-cylinder hybrid engine, delivering responsive performance with outstanding fuel efficiency. Its lightweight build and finely tuned suspension ensure dynamic handling, while inside, a 7” Digital Instrument cluster, ambient lighting, and meticulous Omotenashi details create a luxurious, drivercentric experience. Cheers!
The seventh-generation M5with M Hybrid drive system
THE third-generation M5 Touring with M Hybrid drive system
Pauline completes comeback at Binitin
By Aldrin Quinto
BACOLOD—Pauline del Rosario showed poise through every clutch moment, firing a sizzling 66 to rise from six strokes down and claim victory by one stroke in the International Container Terminal Services Inc. Bacolod Golf Challenge on Thursday.
With the tight Binitin course playing receptive, allowing aggressive approaches, Del Rosario came up with a back-nine surge highlighted by two consecutive birdies from No. 15 to move ahead of South Korea’s Kim Seoyun. Del Rosario nearly capped the comeback with a birdie, her attempt from around 28 feet on No. 18 tracking with promise before veering just wide. The par was enough, though, and the gallery erupted in applause.
“I just came in with the game plan of keeping it on the fairway and on the greens,” Del Rosario said, noting that she has been focused heavily on technical refinement with coach Carito Villaroman, and she was not feeling well just a week ago so a trophy felt distant at this time.
“I really did not expect to even place,” Del Rosario said. “But my putting clicked yesterday and today so yeah I was able to chase down the six-stroke lead.”
The 26-year-old Del Rosario, who flies the Philippine flag on the Epson Tour but was playing outside Luzon for the first time, noted patience was the key after a dismal opening 73.
“I guess I had the confidence and the belief coming into today that putts can drop,” Del Rosario, winner of the Caliraya Springs Championship in 2023.
“It feels good, I don’t think it has fully sunken in yet just because I’ve been struggling with my game a lot, but I’m really happy I was able to execute my plan this week and apply the techniques my coach and I have been working on.”
A two-shot swing right on the first hole seemed to be a glimpse into the
unfolding narrative, with Del Rosario hitting birdie and Kim suffering a bogey.
Del Rosario finished at four-under 206, bagging the lion’s share of P90,000 from the P750,000 purse.
K im, who led in the first two rounds with scores of 66-68, couldn’t get things going and wound up with three bogeys in a 73 for second place at 207 worth P63,750.
Daniella Uy fired a closing 69 for a 209 total, taking third place worth P51,000 in the event organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. and sponsored by ICTSI.
Florence Yvon Bisera and Sarah Ababa shot 71s and wound up tied for fourth at 211.
Mafy Singson had a final-round 69 and took sixth spot with Lois Kaye Go, who closed with a 71.
South Korea’s Tiffany Lee was a stroke further back after a 70 for solo eighth place, while Chihiro Ikeda and Kayla Nocum shot 68s for a share of ninth place.
Jahns two strokes clear KEANU JAHNS wielded a hot putter and converted birdie opportunities while managing to save pars on four missed greens, firing a second consecutive 65 for a two-shot lead in the third round of the PGT’s Bacolod Golf Challenge on Thursday.
The 29-year-old Jahns surged ahead early on moving day, hitting birdies on four of the first five holes.
The only hiccup was bogey on the par-3 No. 8, and although he had a little trouble off the tee on the back nine, he made birdies on the 11th and 14th on the way to 13-under 197.
“I had the same game plan, but I putted really well today, the main difference from the first two rounds, and I read the greens really well so I was making a lot more putts,” Jahns said.
Fidel Concepcion, joint 11th after 18 and solo fourth after the second round, sustained his rise by matching Jahns’
65, assuming the main challenger’s role after 54 holes.
“No one really knows what will happen, I’ll try to hit as many fairways as I can which is really important on this golf course, try to hit greens as many greens and that’s it.”
“It’s gonna be tough to beat Keanu so I’m just gonna try to play my own game and see what happens.”
O vernight co-leader Ha Taewon could not hold on to the top for long, slipping early with bogey on No. 3.
The South Korean suffered two more bogeys—on Nos. 7 and 10—but also had four birdies for a 69 and a 201 total.
Aidric Chan had a dizzying round of highs and lows, highlighted by two eagles and three birdies but marred by three bogeys and a triple-bogey seven.
The round of 69 put the two-time Asian Development Tour winner in solo fourth spot at eight-under 202.
Russell Bautista fired a second consecutive 66 and shared fifth place with defending champion Reymon Jaraula, who carded a 67.
Amateur golfer Bobe Salahog shot a 66 and shared seventh place at 204 with Angelo Que, twice winner this year, who had a round of 67.
Order of Merit winner Tony Lascuna continued his solid play, adding a 68 to earlier rounds of 70-67.
The 54-year-old Lascuna was in joint ninth spot with ADT winner Carl Corpus, who carded a 69.
PAULINE DEL ROSARIO comes up with a big win in her first LPGT tournament outside of Luzon.
Pressure fuels Ybanez as Alas set for worlds
FUELED by his love for the game and a relentless drive to improve, Josh Ybañez sets aside the pressure as he pursues the golden opportunity to represent the Philippines in Alas Pilipinas’ historic campaign at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
A s a 5-foot-7 outside hitter at the collegiate level, pressure has always followed Ybañez like a shadow every time he steps on the court.
“Pressure is constant,” said the two-time UAAP MVP from University of Santo Tomas, who has been embracing a defensive role under Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni.
“It’s always there, even if it’s not the World Championship. There’s always pressure. So I just embrace it and focus on loving what I do.”
But for the SEA V.League Best Libero, the chance to represent the Philippines—on one of volleyball’s grandest stages and before a roaring home crowd—is too exhilarating to be weighed down by it.
Returning to his natural role as a libero, the 22-year-old pride of General Santos embraces every moment with focus and determination, letting his passion for the sport guide him through every challenge as Alas Pilipinas prepares for the world meet.
“It’s an honor for us to represent the Philippines for the first time at the World Championship, and as they say, this is history. I’m happy, and for sure, I’m going to learn so much from our opponents and from the tournament itself,” said Ybañez.
Ybañez is among 21 players in the Alas Pilipinas pool, all competing for a spot in the Final 14 for the 32-nation World Championship set from September 12 to 28 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena and Araneta Coliseum.
The Philippines will kick off the tournament against Tunisia—match tine moved to 4:30 pm from the original 6 pm—at the MOA Arena, following a festive opening ceremony headlined by K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR and Cebuana singer-songwriter-actress Karencitta.
Fans can secure their seats for the historic event, which will see Alas Pilipinas face Egypt on September 16 and Iran on September 18, by purchasing tickets online at the official web site https://www. philippineswch2025.com.
For Ybañez, the World Championship is more than just a chance to play—it is an opportunity to test himself against the world’s best, learning from every experience to grow and sharpen his game.
“I will just focus on doing my best in every game and learning from each match. That’s the only way I can grow,” he said. “I hope all Filipinos will support us, because of course, there are teams like the USA and others that are also favorites among Filipinos. So I hope they cheer for us too.”
JOSH YBANEZ is eager to deliver for the Philippines on the world stage.
NBA to investigate Clippers over alleged salary cap rule breach with Kawhi deal
OS ANGELES—The NBA said Wednesday that it will investigate if a $28 million endorsement contract between Kawhi
and a California-based sustainability services company allowed the
Clippers to circumvent league salary cap rules, following a report by journalist Pablo Torre. The Clippers strongly denied that any rules were broken and said they welcomed the league’s investigation. The probe will focus on ties between Leonard, the Clippers and a company called Aspiration Fund Adviser, LLC, which filed for bankruptcy this year. It listed several creditors at that time, among them the Clippers (who were owed about $30 million) and a company called KL2 Aspire LLC that was owed $7 million. L eonard is listed as the manager of that company in California filings. KL is his initials, and 2 is his jersey number. Emails sent to his listed representatives seeking comment Wednesday were not immediately returned.
“ We are aware of this morning’s media report regarding the LA Clippers and are commencing an investigation,” NBA
Hidilyn sets sights on redemption in Thailand Southeast Asian Games
By Josef T. Ramos
LYMPIC gold medalist Hidilyn
ODiaz-Naranjo hopes to see action in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in December, eyeing some redemption in Thailand.
Diaz-Naranjo, after losing her spot in the 59-kg class to Erleen Ando in Phuket during the final qualifying event for the 2024 Paris Olympics, continued training at her own weightlifting academy in Jala-jala, Rizal.
“That was my last competition when I lost my spot to Olympics, and that was also in Thailand. Now, I am returning there again. There is a possibility to compete in the Thailand SEA Games,” Diaz-Naranjo said.
Diaz was 30 years old when she delivered the Philippines’ first-ever gold medal, topping the 55kg category in the 2021 Tokyo Games.
Now 34, Diaz eyes her third gold medal at the biennial meet after conquering the 2019 Philippines SEA Games and 2022 Hanoi games, both at the now defunct women’s -55 kg.
The 2022 World Champion will be competing in 58 kgs class while the next weight category will be -63 kgs.
“I became bigger, so it is going to be difficult for me to compete. But the possibility is there because I still train at our gym with the kids. I must continue my training,” Diaz-Naranjo, also the 2018 Asian Games gold medalist, added.
Diaz-Naranjo, who also got an Olympic silver medal nine years ago in the Rio Games, is busy nowadays promoting weightlifting with the Department of Education, hoping to get
UNIVERSITY OF SANTO
the sport on the regular calendar of the annual Palarong Pambansa. Diaz-Naranjo sais she is not thinking beyond the Thailand SEA Games this year.
As of now, the possibility is still to compete in SEA Games other than that, none at the moment.”
She is tempering expectations, but vows to give it her best.
We have an opponent from the host country, and she is strong,” DiazNaranjo said, referring to Suratwadee Yodsarn who won three silvers in women’s 59 kgs event at the Asian Weightlifting Championships 2025 in Jiangshan, China last May. “But I will be ready there. We will make an announcement soon if you will see me in SEA Games. Again, that is possible,” she said.
spokesman Mike Bass said Wednesday.
Clippers owner Steve Ballmer made a $50 million investment in Aspiration, and the company and the team announced a $300 million partnership in September 2021. That was about a month after Leonard signed a four-year, $176 million extension with the Clippers.
The team ended its relationship with Aspiration after two years, saying the contract was in default.
“Neither the Clippers nor Steve Ballmer circumvented the salary cap,” the team said. “The notion that Steve invested in Aspiration in order to funnel money to Kawhi Leonard is absurd. Steve invested because Aspiration’s co-founders presented themselves as committed to doing right by their customers while protecting the environment.
After a long campaign of market manipulation, which defrauded not only Steve but numerous other investors and sports teams, Aspiration filed for bankruptcy.... Neither Steve nor the Clippers had knowledge of any improper activity by Aspiration or its co-founder until after the government initiated its investigation.” AP
THE University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) formalized its partnership with the Villaroman Golf Academy (VGA), becoming first university in the Philippines acknowledged by the National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP) to integrate golf into its Physical Education program.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on Monday at the UA&P campus by university President John Philip R. Yeung and VGA President Carito M. Villaroman, with NGAP secretary-general Bones Floro and UA&P Vice President for Academic and Faculty Affairs Fe Gladys B. Golo as witnesses. VGA will provide technical coaching, resource persons, and assistance in
TOMAS bounced back with a commanding 25-18, 25-18, 25-15 victory over National Collegiate Athletic Association champion Arellano University, strengthening its hold on second place in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Wednesday evening at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center in Manila.
The Golden Spikers came out strong from a 15-day break after a loss to the National University Bulldogs.
JJ M acam, Gboy de Vega and Trevor Valera propelled UST to its fourth win in five matches, Macam delivered 14 points, five excellent receptions, and four digs, while De Vega contributed 12 points on 10 attacks.
UST takes on Far Eastern University (3-1) on Saturday.
In th e second set, a net fault by Golden Spikers captain Dux Yambao allowed the Chiefs to stay within striking distance at 15-13. But
UST responded with a 5-1 run— highlighted by four straight points from Valera—to regain control.
Fueled by a flurry of attacks and defensive stops from De Vega, Macam, and Vryvin Catinsag, UST raced to a commanding 20-7 advantage in the third.
An off-the-block hit by Sherwin Umandal followed by a De Vega crosscourt strike brought UST to match point, before a Ryuichi Yamanaka quick attack wrapped up the contest in just 74 minutes. Valera finished with nine points, while Umandal and Catinsag added six apiece. Yambao also stood out with 21 excellent sets on top of two points. Meanwhile, Arellano’s struggles continued as the Chiefs head into their final elimination match—a showdown with the Ateneo Blue Eagles on Sunday—still winless after six outings in the eight-team tournament organized by Sports Vision. Jiw en Sinuto led Arellano with 10 points.
organizing golf-related events and competitions. UA&P will incorporate golf into its PE and sports programs and promote it as a viable, values-driven sport for the Filipino youth.
“This initiative is a testament to UA&P’s pioneering and forward-thinking vision. Recognizing that golf is more than just a sport, but a powerful tool for personal development and character formation,” said Villaroman. “We look forward to developing a program that not only enhances skills but also nurtures integrity, patience, and focus—qualities our
and
UA&P President John Philip Yeung (second from left) signs an MOU with Villaroman Golf Academy represented by its president Carito Villaroman (second from right). UA&P Vice President for Academic and Faculty Affairs Fe Gladys Golo and NGAP Secretary General Bones Floro served as witnesses.
