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EU firms see PHL potential, but... By Bless Aubrey Ogerio

IMPEACHMENT WATCH: COUNTING THE VOTES, COUNTING THE DAYS Senator Erwin Tulfo answers questions from members

of the media during an ambush interview on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, saying he wants the Senate impeachment court to resolve whether the 16-vote threshold for convicting Vice President Sara Duterte should still be based on all 24 senators, given that four senator-judges are currently unable to attend the trial. The four are Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Rodante Marcoleta, who are detained; Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who is in hiding; and Loren Legarda, who is abroad on medical leave. Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, meanwhile, says he hopes the Senate sitting as an impeachment court can reach a verdict in Duterte’s impeachment trial before December, although proceedings could extend into next year. ROY DOMINGO

ROTARY CLUB OF MANILA JOURNALISM AWARDS

2006 National Newspaper of the Year 2011 National Newspaper of the Year 2013 Business Newspaper of the Year 2017 Business Newspaper of the Year 2019 Business Newspaper of the Year 2021 Pro Patria Award PHILIPPINE STATISTICS AUTHORITY 2018 Data Champion

HE Philippines is attracting European businesses already in the country, but far fewer companies without a local presence are considering entering the market, highlighting a gap the country will need to close if it wants to capture a bigger share of new investment. Only 8 percent of European businesses not currently active in the Philippines said they were considering market entry, according to the EUASEAN Business Council’s (EU-ABC) 12th Business Sentiment Survey. The figure contrasts with the Philippines’s 43-percent rate for planned business expansion over the next five years, placing it just one percentage point behind Singapore. EU-ABC Executive Director Chris Humphrey told

the BusinessMirror that the 43 percent should not be read as investment already committed to the Philippines. It covers both companies with existing operations that intend to expand and those considering entering the market. “What is particularly encouraging for the Philippines is that just over half [51 percent] of European businesses already operating there are looking to expand, indicating that companies with first-hand experience of the market continue to see opportunities for growth,” Humphrey said in an email. The survey also showed that 78 percent of respondents expect trade and investment in Asean to increase over the next five years, up from 71 percent in 2025. For the fourth consecutive year, Asean was also the region seen as offering the strongest econom-

ic opportunities, with 61 percent of respondents choosing it over other major emerging markets, including China and South Asia, up from 56 percent last year. The Philippines has remained among the six most attractive Asean markets in the survey for the past three years. But converting interest into new market entrants could depend heavily on how easy it is for companies to establish and operate in the country. While the survey did not specifically measure barriers in the Philippines, Humphrey said European businesses across Asean continue to cite non-tariff barriers and regulatory unpredictability as their biggest concerns, alongside rising protectionism, differing standards, complex tax regimes and inefficient customs procedures. See “EU firms,” A2

BusinessMirror A broader look at today’s business

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Thursday, September 10, 2026 Vol. 21 No. 331

P25.00 nationwide | 2 sections 22 pages | 7 DAYS A WEEK

By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

S the peso consistently weakened to record lows in the past few days, moving closer to the P63-per-dollar level, the Philippines will lean more on local debt while keeping its foreign borrowings limited, according to Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go. “Our goal is to keep increasing the domestic portion [of the national government’s debt],” Go said in an interview with Bloomberg Television. Two-thirds, or nearly 68 percent, of the government’s outstanding debt is domestic debt, while the remaining 32 percent came from external lenders, Go said. For 2026 and 2027, the Finance chief said the Philippines plans to borrow 70 to 75 percent in pesos and 25 to 30 percent in foreign currency. Based on state budget documents, this year’s borrowing mix is set at 70:30, in favor of domestic sources. As of end-July, the government had raised P1.547 trillion locally and P564.856 billion from external sources.

The government plans to tilt the mix further toward domestic borrowing next year, to 72:28, as it seeks to reduce its exposure to foreign exchange risks. Under the 2027 borrowing program, P2.389 trillion will be raised domestically, while P914.982 billion will come from foreign sources. The share of domestic borrowing is then expected to increase further, with the mix settling at 75:25 in 2028 and 2029. Toward the end of the Marcos administration in 1983, the government’s borrowing was split evenly between domestic and foreign sources. However, foreign debt ballooned 312.3 percent in the following year, as the peso underwent a series of devaluations. See “Borrowings,” A2

READING AIN’T BORING The Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) opened Wednesday (Sept. 9, 2026), with organizers optimistic that the expanded setup this year – two floors, for 165 trade

exhibitors – will help attain their targets of drawing up to 140,000 visitors during its five-day run. This compares with the 123,000 visitors recorded in 2025. Themed “Get Lit: Reading in a New Light,” it runs from September 9 to 13 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, with exhibitors occupying the venue’s expansive exhibition spaces and offering books across over 60 categories. The fair also features book discounts, author signings and interactive showcases from local and international publishers, while several exhibitors have expanded their presence through upgraded booths across the first and second floors. Tinette Capistrano, vice president of Prime Trade Asia, the organizer of MIBF, said, “People think that reading is boring. It’s not,” Capistrano noted. JOHN EIRON R. FRANCISCO

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS TOLD: PREPARE FOR FATF EVALUATION By Andrea E. San Juan

N preparation for the Philippines’s fourth round of Mutual Evaluation in 2027 which shall be conducted by the Financial Action Task Force, the central bank is urging financial institutions to extend their “full cooperation and active participation” in Mutual Evaluation-related activities and data-gathering initiatives. According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the Mutual Evaluation (ME) is an “in-depth” assessment and analysis of the country’s anti-money laundering/countering terrorism and proliferation financing (AML/CTPF) framework and the “effectiveness” of its implementation based on defined outcomes, as well as provides focused recommendations to further strengthen its system. A circular signed by BSP Deputy Governor for Financial Supervision Sector Lyn I. Javier said the ME shall have two main components to assess: Technical Compliance and Effectiveness. BSP said the TC component assesses whether a country has all the necessary

laws, regulations and legal instruments in place, in line with the technical requirements of the 40 FATF Recommendations. Meanwhile, the effectiveness component assesses whether the AML/CTPF systems are working and the extent to which the country is achieving the defined set of outcomes. The BSP said the assessment team will look at 11 key areas, or immediate outcomes, to determine the level of effectiveness of a country’s efforts. The Philippines’s 4th round of ME, scheduled in 2027, shall be undertaken under the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) Global 5th Round of ME, which the BSP said, places “greater emphasis” on the country’s risks and context and demonstrated effectiveness of AML/CTPF measures. “Pertinent data and/or information from [BSP-Supervised Financial Institutions] BSFIs and credible sources are critical to demonstrate the adequacy and effectiveness of the BSP’s supervisory frameworks and the BSFIs’ implementation of AML/CTPF preventive measures,” the central bank’s See “FATF,” A11

MIBF eyes growth with 140,000 visitor target By John Eiron R. Francisco

THE SURGEON IS 1,380 KM AWAY A medical team monitors a landmark telesurgery on a patient at the Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital in Pampanga, performed remotely by a surgeon in Cotabato City on September 5. The procedure was among the Philippines’s first long-distance robotic telesurgeries, linking surgeons and operating rooms 1,380 kilometers apart through the SSI Mantra Robotic Surgery System and a high-speed connection. The operations, including gallbladder removal, were completed safely in less than an hour with minimal blood loss. Story on A3 Nation. PHOTO COURTESY OF DOH

AIN may be dampening parts of Metro Manila, but organizers of the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) remain optimistic about drawing up to 140,000 visitors during its fiveday run. Tinette Capistrano, vice president of Prime Trade Asia, the organizer of MIBF, told the BusinessMirror that they are targeting between 130,000 and 140,000 attendees this year, compared with the 123,000 visitors recorded in 2025. “I hope the rain will not discourage people from visiting the fair,” she said. The MIBF 2026, themed “Get Lit: Reading in a New Light,” runs from September 9 to 13 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, with more than 165 exhibitors occupying the venue’s expansive ex-

hibition spaces and offering books across over 60 categories. The fair also features book discounts, author signings and interactive showcases from local and international publishers, while several exhibitors have expanded their presence through upgraded booths across the first and second floors. Beyond attendance, Capistrano said organizers are also aiming for a strong showing in sales, with the goal of helping exhibitors meet their respective targets during the five-day event. The lineup includes major bookstore chains and educational publishers such as Fully Booked and National Book Store, alongside 19th Avenida Publishing House, Abiva Publishing House, Adarna House, Anvil Publishing and Ateneo de Manila University Press. Other participating exhibitors See “MIBF,” A2

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 62.5680 n JAPAN 0.4067 n UK 84.7171 n HK 7.9799 n CHINA 9.3242 n SINGAPORE 49.4765 n AUSTRALIA 45.1553 n EU 72.7541 n KOREA 0.0467 n SAUDI ARABIA 16.6684 Source: BSP (September 9, 2026)

A2 Thursday, September 10, 2026

News

BusinessMirror

SC reverses Sandiganbayan, acquits Imelda in 7 graft cases T

By Joel R. San Juan

HE Supreme Court has acquitted former First Lady Imelda Marcos of seven counts of graft in relation to her alleged financial interests in various private foundations in Switzerland. In a 50-page ruling penned by Associate Justice Rodil Zalameda, the SC’s First Division granted Marcos’ petition seeking to reverse and set aside the November 9, 2018 decision of the Sandiganbayan finding her guilty of seven counts of graft and sentencing her from six years to 11 years of imprisonment for each count. The anti-graft court also ordered her perpetual disqualification from public office. In reversing the Sandiganbayan’s decision, the Court held that the prosecution failed to prove her guilt beyond reasonable doubt for violation of

EU firms… Continued from A1

“In a context where companies are increasingly selective about where they invest, the regulatory and operating environment can ultimately determine which economies are invested in,” Humphrey said. “The Philippines is competing for investment with other fast-growing Asean economies, so companies are looking not only at market potential, but

Section 3(h) of Republic Act No. 3019, in relation to Article IX, Section 8 of the 1973 Constitution. Section 3(h) of R.A. 3019 Section 3(h) of Republic Act No. 3019 (the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act) prohibits public officials from directly or indirectly having a financial or pecuniary interest in any business, contract, or transaction in which their office intervenes or is officially connected. Article IX, Section 8 of the 1973 Philippine Constitution states that the Prime Minister, the members of the Cabinet, and members of the Executive Committee shall not, during their tenure, directly or indirectly practice any other profession, participate in any business, or be financially interested in any contract with, or in any franchise or special privilege granted by the government or any subdivision or agency thereof. The SC held that the prosecution failed to establish that the subject foundations are busi-

nesses as defined under the said provisions. Likewise, the SC held that any financial or pecuniary interest in the subject foundations is not covered by the same provisions. The SC said the prosecution failed to prove the Swiss foundations were “businesses.” The Court defined “business” as a commercial enterprise that habitually offers goods or services for profit. “In this case, however, both the Informations and the evidence failed to show any goods or services being sold by the subject foundations,” the SC said. “The evidence does not show any commercial enterprise. They merely indicate the placement of assets in the subject foundations for the purpose of providing financial assistance to the beneficiaries,” it added . Likewise, the SC said the anti-graft court erred

in giving merit to the Swiss documents presented by the prosecution to prove Marcos’s financial interests in the said foundations. Court ruled these documents were inadmissible, being classified as private and were not properly authenticated according to the Philippine Rules of Evidence. It noted that the prosecution was not able to present any credible witness who could have attested to the genuineness and due execution of the documents. The cases stemmed from allegations that Marcos, while serving as governor of Metro Manila and holding other government positions during the administration of her husband, the late president Ferdinand Marcos Sr., maintained financial interests in several private foundations based in Switzerland.

also at how straightforward and predictable it is to establish and expand their operations,” he added. Vietnam and Indonesia remain the top two destinations among the 78 percent of businesses planning to expand in at least one Asean market. The Philippines nevertheless has several advantages, including a large and growing consumer market, a young and skilled workforce, strong Englishlanguage capabilities and an established European business community. The country could also benefit from companies restructuring their supply chains. Some 67 percent of respondents said they were considering Asean for

supply-chain shifts, suggesting room for the region to capture investment as companies diversify their production networks. Humphrey said countries with established manufacturing bases would likely benefit most, although the survey did not break down supply-chain plans by individual market. While the Philippines has a smaller manufacturing base than some of its Asean peers, he said the country has other advantages that could strengthen its position. The weaker peso, however, is adding to cost pressures for manufacturers, particularly as much

of the country’s export production remains dependent on imported inputs, according to the Federation of Philippine Industries. The peso fell to a record-low P62.625 against the US dollar on Tuesday, weakening from its P62.586 finish on Monday, based on Bankers Association of the Philippines data. Another potential boost is the proposed European Union-Philippines free trade agreement, with negotiations expected to conclude in the coming months. The Department of Trade and Industry has been pushing to accelerate the talks and complete them within the year. “The Philippines is therefore well placed to benefit from supply-chain diversification, but capturing a larger share will depend on how effectively it can translate those underlying strengths into a competitive operating environment,” Humphrey said. “Supply-chain investment will not necessarily be distributed evenly across the region; countries that make it easiest for companies to invest, produce and connect into regional and global supply chains will be best placed to capture it,” he added.

Borrowings… Continued from A1

Go said the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and the Monetary Board, of which he is a member, are “smoothing” any volatility in the peso, whether it weakens or strengthens versus the dollar. “What we’re more concerned about is the speed at which it moves,” Go said. “The central bank intervenes as necessary when the volatility is beyond what they deem comfortable.” The peso fell to a new record low of P62.625 against the dollar last Tuesday, the fourth time in September that it hit a fresh all-time low. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2026/09/09/peso-could-test-new-lowsin-the-near-term-analysts/). Government borrowing costs could eventually decline following the Philippine bonds’ inclusion in the JPMorgan Government Bond Index - Emerging Markets next year, Go added. “It widens our investor base, and secondly, it should bring down the government’s borrowing cost over time, which, of course, will mean that corporates and consumers will also be able to borrow at lower rates over time,” the Finance chief said. About $5 billion worth of Philippine bonds could be eligible for investment under the widely-tracked index. Still, the government is targeting to lower its deficit to 3.5 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030. Go reiterated that the government aims to bring the deficit to 5.4 percent of GDP in 2026, 5.2 percent in 2027 and eventually 3.5 percent by 2030. “The Department of Finance [DOF] is calling for an entire whole-of-government approach to exercise fiscal discipline, to focus on expenditures that have the highest multiplier effects, to focus on smart spending,” Go said. To generate more revenues for the government, the DOF has proposed a new comprehensive tax reform package, which could raise P191.77 billion in net revenues in the four years by expanding sin taxes while providing tax relief to the middle class and small businesses. “We’ve presented [it] to the legislature for Congress to consider. So that’s right now up for them to consider,” Go said. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who pushed for the reform, wants the bill to be passed this year, said Palace Press Officer Claire Castro.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

PISA…

Continued from A11

comparable results at the school level, while assessing the same core competencies of 15-year-old learners in reading, mathematics, and science, Angara explained. It is delivered digitally and is now available in Tagalog, alongside other languages. During a forum on sustaining PISA gains on Wednesday, Undersecretary for Strategic Management Ron Mendoza said the initiative will allow more flexible deployment between international assessment cycles while providing a platform for schools and education leaders to test questions and innovations that may help improve learning outcomes. “PISA for Schools can help strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors, allowing us to learn from each other and improve learning for every Filipino learner,” he said. The rollout is aligned with DepEd’s broader reform agenda under Angara’s leadership, particularly in strengthening decentralization, public-private partnerships, and digitalization. The Philippines is joining a growing international community of educators using the assessment, alongside countries such as Brazil, India, Kazakhstan, Spain, Thailand, and the United States. For DepEd, the rollout will initially be implemented in phases. Phase I is being implemented this school year as a pilot, while Phase II from 2027 to 2032 is envisioned to mainstream and scale up the program, with support from the World Bank. “With the results of PISA 2025, I think we should shift that to a system that knows that learning is possible,” said Mr. Janssen Teixeria, World Bank Senior Education Specialist. The initiative forms part of the broader Project for Learning Upgrade Support and Decentralization (PLUSD), a DepEd-World Bank effort that includes system-level interventions, targeted interventions, and monitoring and evaluation. Angara said the value of the program ultimately lies in how schools use the information. “Our goal is not to create another ranking. It is to give schools information they can act on. If we know more precisely where learners are struggling, we can better target interventions, strengthen teaching, and direct resources where they can make the greatest difference,”he said.

PISA gains celebrated; continued reforms urged

THE gains in PISA 2025 stand out against the broader OECD trend. Between 2022 and 2025, average OECD scores fell by 3 points in Science, 9 points in Mathematics, and 14 points in Reading, while the Philippines moved in the opposite direction across all three domains. The country posted the fastest growth in Reading among participating countries and was among

the most improved in Mathematics; in Science, where many countries recorded declines, the Philippines gained 17 points. “Ang resulta ng PISA ay magandang pangitain sa binubuo nating reporma para po sa edukasyon. Bunga ito ng sama-samang trabaho ng ating mga guro, mga magulang, mag-aaral, pamahalaan at mga partners sa education sector. Lalo nating kinikilala ang ating mga guro na patuloy na nagsisikap na turuan ang ating kabataan,” said Edcom 2 Co-Chairperson Sen. Bam Aquino. The improvement was also reflected in the proportion of students reaching at least Level 2 proficiency: in Science, this rose from 23 percent in 2022 to 32 percent in 2025; in Reading, from 24 percent to 31 percent; and in Mathematics, from 16 percent to 21 percent. Filipino learners also showed a relative strength in computational problem solving, scoring 434—below the OECD average of 500, but better than expected relative to their Science performance, with more than 70 percent of Filipino students outperforming what their Science scores would predict. “We can attribute this success to everyone who worked diligently towards meaningful reforms. This is the fruit of all the efforts we have made since the 18th Congress, and I hope that we will not stop here but continue to implement the remaining reforms that have been recommended by EDCOM 2 and legislated by the Congress,” said Edcom 2 CoChairperson Rep. Roman Romulo. In a privilege speech on the PISA results, Edcom2 Commissioner Sen. Joel Villanueva said, “We congratulate Secretary Sonny Angara and the entire DepEd family, particularly the PISA 2025 Task Force, our teachers, partners in the education sector, and the people behind EDCOM II for this achievement.” Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian acknowledged Angara’s leadership in DepEd, school heads, and teachers. The case for sustained investment IN its official statement, EDCOM 2 said the results provide both reason for optimism and a clearer reform agenda: build on the factors driving improved performance while directing greater attention to the learners and schools that continue to lag. Philippine scores continue to trail OECD averages by 109 points in Science, 94 points in Reading, and 92 points in Mathematics. Only 21 percent of Filipino students reached Level 2 in Mathematics, compared with 31 percent in Reading and 32 percent in Science, and almost no Filipino students reached the highest proficiency levels. Moreover, several structural gaps still demand investment. Nearly half (48 percent) of Filipino students were in schools where insufficient learning materials hindered instruction, and 58 percent were in schools affected by inadequate physical infrastructure. On a more encouraging note, the share of students in schools where teacher shortages hindered instruction fell sharply, from 43 percent in 2022 to 19 percent in 2025—a sign of what sustained investment can deliver.

MIBF eyes growth with… Continued from A1

include C&E Adaptive Learning Solutions, Central Book Supply, Lampara Publishing House, Megatexts Phil., Milflores Publishing, Rex Education, Scholastic Philippines and the Vibal Group. Comic and contemporary fiction titles are also represented by Comic Odyssey, Komiket Studios, Precious Pages, Psicom Publishing and Summit Publishing, while religious and inspirational works are featured by Bayard Assumption Media Foundation, Claretian Communications Foundation, OMF Literature, Paulines and St. Pauls. Apart from books, including novels, comics and textbooks, the event also features educational and creative products such as learning materials, educational technology, stationery, journals and art supplies. “We’ve been organizing this for over 30 years. So, we’ve already

[built] an established brand. And we’ve maintained good relationships with our clients,” she said, adding that word of mouth has also helped sustain interest in the event. The MIBF is organized by Prime Trade Asia Inc. in cooperation with the Asian Catholic Communicators Inc., Book Development Association of the Philippines, Overseas Publishers Representatives’ Association of the Philippines, Philippine Booksellers Association Inc., and Philippine Educational Publishers Association, with support from the National Book Development Board and My Teacher, My Hero. “People think that reading is boring. It’s not,” Capistrano noted. “Reading takes you to a different level, a different world. It’s the only thing you can do at peace with yourself. Travel in your own place. And it never gets out of style.”

The Nation BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Thursday, September 10, 2026

Ombudsman to oppose Romualdez petition to be detained in hospital

By Joel R. San Juan | @jrsanjuan1573 & By Jonathan L. Mayuga | @jonlmayuga

HE Ombudsman on Wednesday said it would oppose the bid of former speaker and incumbent Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez to be placed under hospital confinement while his P7.4 billion plunder case is being heard by the Sandiganbayan. The Ombudsman made known its position as the Sandiganbayan is scheduled to hear on Thursday the manifestation and urgent motion filed by Romualdez asking the antigraft court to allow him to remain at the Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC) in San Juan City, following its issuance of an arrest warrant against him on Monday. The arrest warrant was served by policemen on Romualdez on the same day at the CSMC where he has been confined owing to alleged various illnesses. “The prosecutors will strongly oppose the motion. In fact, the prosecutors will ask that not just one doctor but a team of government doctors assess whether or not the illnesses declared need confinement or can be managed outside of the hospital,” Assistant Ombudsman Jose Dominic Clavano IV said. “If his illnesses can be managed from outside of the hospital, the prosecutors will move that he be immediately transferred to the regular detention facility as all other accused

in non-bailable cases,” Clavano added. In his manifestation and urgent motion, Romualdez claimed that he is suffering from several heart and brain circulatory diseases, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypothyroidism. He also informed the Third Division that he previously underwent angioplasty surgery owing to coronary artery disease and has since required continuing monitoring and treatment. He a l s o c l a i me d to h ave been previously confined where irregularities found in his magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.

Court summons docs

THE Sandiganbayan has summoned Romualdez’s four attending physicians—Drs. Rody Sy, Rogelio Libarnes, Kurt Allen V. Sibayan, and Rosalio P. Torres—in Thursday’s hearing that would determine whether the his motion should be granted or denied. Romualdez was also ordered to appear before the anti-graft court should his condition permit. The arrest warrant stemmed from the complaint filed by the

Sara doesn’t have blanket right against self-incrimination–House prosecutors By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

ICE President Sara Z. Duterte cannot invoke her constitutional right against self-incrimination as a blanket reason to refuse taking the witness stand in her impeachment trial, House prosecutors said, arguing that the privilege must be exercised on a question-by-question basis. The prosecution made the statement after reserving its right to present Duterte as a witness before the Senate Impeachment Court once it completes the presentation of evidence on all four Articles of Impeachment. House prosecution spokesperson and counsel Benjamin Tolosa Jr. explained that the absolute protection against being compelled to testify generally applies to individuals facing criminal charges. However, in other proceedings, an opposing party may be called as a witness and may only invoke the right against self-incrimination when a specific question could expose them to criminal liability. “You cannot say, ‘I will not take the stand at all because I have the right against self-incrimination.’ It has to be on a per-question basis,” Tolosa said. He added that the Impeachment Court would determine whether a particular question could actually incriminate Duterte before allowing her to refuse answering. Tolosa stressed that Duterte is not an accused in a criminal case but a respondent in an impeachment proceeding, which is a constitutional process aimed at determining whether a public official should remain in office and be disqualified from holding future public positions. “ S he’s not a n acc u se d he re. She’s a respondent. This is not a criminal case. It’s an impeachment proceeding,” Tolosa said. Bukidnon Rep. Jonathan Keith

Flores, a member of the prosecution panel, agreed that Duterte may invoke the protection depending on the nature of the questions asked but cannot automatically refuse to testify altogether. Flores explained that questions involving alleged personal use of confidential funds could potentially raise self-incrimination concerns. However, factual questions, such as whether Duterte instructed a special d i sbu rsi ng of f icer to w it hd raw funds, may not necessarily require invoking the privilege. The prosecution reser ved the possibility of calling Duterte after completing its additional witness presentation regarding allegations involving the misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds. However, it has not yet filed a formal request asking the Impeachment Court to issue a subpoena for her appearance. Tolosa said the reservation was made to preserve the prosecution’s ability to question Duterte regarding the confidential funds allegations and the other Articles of Impeachment. Duterte’s defense team earlier argued that the Constitution prevents prosecutors from compelling an impeachment respondent to testify. The defense said it would oppose any attempt to subpoena her. To l o s a a c k n o w l e d g e d t h a t t he Sen ate i mpeac h ment cou r t would ultimately decide how the constitutional protection applies to Duterte, noting that impeachment proceedings are unique and different from ordinary criminal trials.

Strength of evidence

PROSECUTOR S maintained that t heir case aga inst Duter te w i l l depend on the strength of their evidence rather than the number of votes needed for conviction. See “Sara,” A4

Ombudsman accusing Romualdez and several others of pocketing and receiving kickbacks amounting to P7.4 billion from infrastructure and flood control projects of the government. TheOmbudsmanhasalsonamedformer Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co of Ako Bicol, Romualdez’s personal aide Joselyn Tragua Serenio, and the president of Samchan Foreign Exchange Corporation, Felicito Guevarra, as corespondents in the plunder case. The Sandiganbayan has also issued arrest orders against Co, Serenio and Guevarra. Inter ior Sec ret a r y Ju a n ito Victor Remulla meanwhile said the National Police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group will ask Sandiganbayan to transfer Romualdez from the Cardinal Santos Medical Center in San Juan City to the PNP General Hospital in Camp Crame, Quezon City. “The PNP General Hospital is capable of attending to Romualdez’s medical condition. At the same time, arrangements may be made for his attending physicians to continue providing necessary care, subject to the approval of the court,” Remulla said in a statement. “We will file a motion for custody of Martin Romualdez, for him to be brought to the Camp Crame Hospital. That motion will be filed later or tomorrow to make it clear that we are not allowing him to stay at Cardinal Santos. We can do it at Camp Crame,” he said. Remulla added that PNP medical personnel have coordinated with Romualdez’s attending physicians and were informed that his current cardiovascular condition makes him medically unstable to appear before the court or be transferred to a regular detention facility.

24/7 guard

PENDING further medical assessment and court action, Remulla assured that Romualdez will remain in government custody and guarded around the clock. Me a nw h i l e , R e mu l l a s a i d authorities are intensifying efforts to locate and arrest his co-accused, including former Party-list Rep. Rizaldy Co of Ako Bicol. Remulla said the government is preparing another request for an International Police Organization Red Notice against Co following the filing of a P7.44-billion plunder case against him, Romualdez, Sereño and Guevarra. Remulla is scheduled to travel to Lyon, France, to personally follow up with Interpol on efforts to locate and apprehend Co. “We will file the Red Notice for Zaldy Co again. Coincidentally, I’ll visit Lyon, France, to follow up the Interpol red notice,” he explained. R e mu l l a s a id h i s brot he r, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla will go with him to France to coordinate through diplomatic channels on efforts to secure Co’s arrest and return to the Philippines. “I will work with Interpol; he will work on the diplomatic efforts para makuha si Co.” Law enforcement authorities are continuing efforts to locate Sereño and Guevarra and serve their respective warrants of arrest. TheDILGassuredthatauthoritieswill continue pursuing all available legal and law enforcement mechanisms, including international coordination when necessary, to ensure that those facing warrants are brought before the proper courts.

PNP to coordinate with counterparts

T H E N at i o n a l Po l i c e ( P N P)

on Wednesday said that it will conduct more coordination with its international law enforcement partners to locate Co to ensure his return so that he can face the plunder charges filed against him. “ T he PN P i s p re p a re d t o coordinate with French authorities through Interpol should former Congressman Zaldy Co be located abroad. We will provide full support to ensure that due process is observed and justice is pursued,” the PNP Chief, Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, said in a statement. “If Co is arrested abroad, the process will follow international protocols through Interpol and diplomatic channels. The PNP will assist in the lawful transfer of custody once the court issues its directive,” Nartatez added. Malacañang defended the decision of authorities to allow Romualdez to remain at the CSMC saying it was based on the recommendation of the lawmaker’s doctor. Pa l ace Press Of f icer C l a ire Castro made the statement in response to criticisms that the DILG gave special treatment to Romualdez by allowing him to be confined in a medical facility. She said they will give the benefit of the doubt on the decision of Romualdez’s physicians, who they consider neutral. “We cannot stop doctors from determining the health condition of an accused individual. Neither the PNP nor the DILG leadership can force the immediate transfer of an accused person whom doctors have certified as not yet fit to be discharged or removed from the hospital,” Castro said in a press br ief i ng Wed nesd ay. With Rex

Anthony Naval and Samuel Medenilla

‘Devolve delivery of basic education to capable local governments’ By Rizal Raoul Reyes

HE n at ion a l gover n ment should consider devolving the delivery of basic education to local governments (LGUs) that can demonstrate the capacity, resources and governance systems needed to improve learning outcomes. In her presentation, “Can LGUs Manage the Delivery of Basic Education?” Synergia president Milwida Guevarra argued for an “asymmetric devolution” model under which not all LGUs would automatically assume greater responsibility for basic education. Instead, Guevarra argued devolution could initially be granted to local governments that meet clear standards of good education governance. The proposal effectively shifts the debate from whether education should simply be decentralized to which LGUs are ready to take on greater responsibility—and how their

performance should be measured. Guevarra cited evidence indicating that stronger local participation can translate into better learning outcomes. She pointed to a positive correlation among National Achievement Test scores, functional Local School Boards (LSBs) and the level of LSB engagement with communities. Guevarra commended the platform created by the late Naga City mayor Jesse Robredo to pursue innovations in education. “You have to reinvent the local school board following the Jesse Robreno model. And that really means bringing in many stakeholders who have the expertise, the business community, you can, you know, demonstrate and mentor them better management, financial management,” said Guevarra in her presentation on Tuesday in the forum organized by the Phinma and the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd). “They can bring in the private schools

so that they can learn from recent techniques and recent research. They can bring in the farmers, the fishermen, the drivers, because everybody should have a stake. So aside from broadening membership, they should broaden their functions. Unfortunately, under the law, local school boards are only powerful enough to disperse the special education fund, if they change the names of schools,” added Guevarra, also a finance undersecretary during the Ramos administration. She also cited Synergeia Foundation’s 2025 experience in Iloilo, where the average reading performance of Grade 3 students in 12 LGUs increased from 74 percent to 88 percent in tests covering sounds, blending, comprehension and critical thinking. Under the Guevarra model, LGUs would be given more responsibility, more accountability, and a greater role in teacher development. See “Education,” A4

‘Withdrawal of US warships won’t affect AFP‘s ability to defend territory, sovereignty’

HE Armed Forces’ (AFP) a b i l it y t o d e f e nd t he countr y’s ter r itor y and sovereignty will not be affected by the recent transfer of major US naval assets from the Pacific to the Middle East. This was conveyed by retired Navy reservist Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad, AFP spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, underscoring the AFP’s mandate to defend the country’s territory and sovereignty. “First and foremost, it is the primary responsibility of the Armed Forces to ensure the security and protection of our territory, our sovereignty, and sovereign rights,” he told reporters on Tuesday. Earlier this year, the aircraft carrier USS George Washington and its battle group were sent to the Middle East to relieve USS Abraham Lincoln and its escorts, which have been on extended deployment to the Middle East, following US operations against Iran. Asked about the impact of the transfer of major US assets and whether China would take adv a nt a ge of t h i s, Tr i n id ad said the AFP “also support[s] international law.” “We uphold international law in this part of the globe. We receive support from our treaty ally, the US, and other like-minded nations, like Japan, in supporting international law,” he said. Despite the transfer of US naval vessels, Trinidad said, the Mutual Defense Board—Security Engagement Board activ ities, and the Mutual Defense Treaty remain in place. “The activities have been preplanned and pre-approved. A lot of them have been implemented for this year. More are in line next year. We are not concerned [about] a ny reduct ion i n US forces or ot her l i ke - m i nded nations’ forces in the Indo-Pacific Region,” he said.

Questionable claims

TRINIDAD at the same time said the latest Chinese state-media article claiming Batanes Island is part of their territory is part of “foreign malign inf luence.” “ T he Batanes claim is sy nc hroni zed w it h ma l ig n inf luence nar ratives on Bajo de M a si n loc a nd Ay u ng i n Shoal. Let us not look at this as isolated incidents. These are all synchronized, persistent efforts of foreign malign inf luence to show to the public, first and foremost, and to the world that the AFP and the government [have] failed to secure and to protec t ou r sovereig nt y a nd sovereign rights,” he said. Tr i n id ad , howe ve r, note d that these actions only further strengthen the AFP’s resolve to perform its mandate of patrolling the seas and skies, and continue the rotation and reprovisioning activities on BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal. Rex Anthony Naval with PNA

Pampanga, Cotabato surgeons perform PHL’s first long-distance telesurgeries

By Henry Empeño

LONGAPO CITY—Surgeons at the Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital (JBLMGH) in Pampanga and counterparts at the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center (CRMC) in Cotabato City successfully operated on patients located 1,380 kilometers away on Saturday, the first long-distance telesurgeries ever to be made in the country. The medical milestone, conducted through a cutting-edge robotic surgery system, was announced by the Department of Health (DOH) in Central Luzon on Wednesday. D O H , i n a s t ate m e nt s a i d D r.

Ryan Quiambao at the JBLMGH first per formed a cross- countr y robotic cholecystectomy, or the removal of gall bladder, on a patient at the CRMC. Subsequently, Dr. Al-Jazzser Angas and Dr. Louis Gerard Agustin of CRMC completed a similar procedure on a patient at the operating table in the Pampanga hospital. “Remarkably, all procedures were done safely in less than one hour with minimal blood loss,” the DOH said, adding that the operations were fully covered by the DOH Zero Balance Billing program. Both operations relied on technology provided by the SSI Mantra Robotic Surgery System, notably described as an advanced

multi-arm robotic system used for various soft-tissue procedures and remote trials. Using this system, a surgeon sits at a workstation equipped with 3D highdefinition screens and hand controls and performs the operation remotely through a slave robot with mechanical arms holding surgical instruments and tiny cameras. The system relies on secure, ultra-fast fiber optics or 5G connection to transmit real-time video and control signals. The landmark surgeries were witnessed by Health Secretary Edwin Mercado, JBLMGH Medical Center Chief Monserrat Chichioco, CRMC Medical Center Chief Ishmael Dimaren, CRMC Department of

Surgery Chairman Faisal Romancap, and Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda, among others. Dr. Sudhir Shrivastava, the inventor and CEO of SS Mantra Robotics, reportedly flew all the way from New Delhi, India, to witness the historic operations. DOH said the landmark telesurgeries served as a critical first step toward delivering equitable, world-class, and tech-driven surgical care to Filipinos across the archipelago. “By leveraging cutting-edge robotic telesurgery, we are not just showcasing technological advancement—we are actively dismantling geographic limitations to ensure that advanced, life-saving healthcare is accessible and equitable for all,” it added.

Economy BusinessMirror

A4 Thursday, September 10, 2026

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Wholesale electricity prices in VisMin shoot up By Lenie Lectura

@llectura

HOLESALE Electricity Spot Market (WESM) prices in the Visayas and Mindanao shot up by 65 percent and 88 percent, respectively, last month. Rates are likely to remain elevated next month as long as the generating units remain offline and new supply is unavailable.

outage levels, supply constraints relative to demand, and grid alert conditions. The tight supply situation owing to forced outages in the Visayas was compounded by constraints affecting the Luzon-Visayas High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) interconnection. The record highs are expected to persist for the period August 26 to September 25 still due to thin power margins. “Definitely, as long there is an advisory of yellow and red alerts then there is a very thin margin, particularly the Visayas, and that will result to higher prices in our electricity markets,” Cacho said during a news briefing. On Wednesday, Visayas was again placed on red and yellow alerts by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP). The red alert takes effect from 1:00 p.m. to 10 p.m. while the yellow alert is from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. A red alert status is issued when power supply is insufficient to meet consumer demand and

the transmission grid’s regulating requirement. A yellow alert is issued when the operating margin is insufficient to meet the transmission grid’s contingency requirement. Visayas’ available capacity stood at 2,124MW as against a peak demand of 2,555MW. There are 11 plants on forced outage since the state of the month, four plants since August 2026, one plant since July, two plants since June, seven plants since May, three plants since 2025, two plants since 2024, two plants since 2023, and one plant since 2021, while 13 plants are running on derated capacities, for a total of 982.6MW unavailable to the grid. The NGCP cited the unavailability of Visayas’ large coal plants TVI 1 and PEDC 3; outage of TVI 2 on Wednesday; and the limited power import from the Mindanao grid as the factors that contributed to the red alert. In Mindanao, the yellow alert took effect from 1:00 p.m. to

T he W ESM operator— Independent Electricity Market O perator of t he Phi l ippines (Iemop)—reported on Wednesday that electricity spot market in Visayas reached P18.59 per kilowatt hour (kWh) for the period July 26 to August 25. In Mindanao, WESM prices surged to P19.56 per kWh during the same period.

Iemop Vice President for Trading Operations Isidro Cacho Jr. said the WESM rates for Visayas and Mindanao are so far the highest “I have seen since I joined Iemop in 2006.” Iemop said the supply margin of the Visayas and Mindanao declined by 190 megawatts (MW) and 253 MW, respectively, influenced by

Green Lane shaves 11 days off permit clock

Dole to focus on job matching

By Bless Aubrey Ogerio

ERMITS processed through the government’s Green Lane initiative took an average of 7.67 days to complete as of August, 11.45 days faster than the 19.12-day turnaround time prescribed under the Citizens’ Charters of government agencies. Data from the Board of Investments (BOI) showed that 122 permits were processed under the green-lane initiative, with the average completion time representing a 59.9-percent reduction from the prescribed turnaround time. The figures highlight how the Green Lane is being used not only to facilitate strategic investments but also to speed up the government approvals required by projects covered by the program. Under the initiative, government agencies coordinate the processing of permits and licenses for strategic investments through a system designed to shorten approval timelines. Meanwhile, the Green Lane’s investment pipeline remained unchanged as of August 31, with total strategic investments standing at P6.36 trillion, or about $111.93 billion. The projects are still expected to generate 425,454 jobs. Renewable energy continued to account for the largest share of investments and projects under the initiative, with 187 approved projects worth P5.46 trillion and an estimated 276,469 jobs to be created. Filipino investments made up the bulk of the pipeline, reaching P4.46 trillion or 70.09 percent of total investments as of end-August. Among foreign investors, Denmark had the largest share at P472.46 billion, equivalent to 7.42 percent of the total. Singapore followed with P370 billion or 5.81 percent, while the Netherlands accounted for P367.84 billion, or 5.78 percent. Switzerland contributed P317.07 billion, representing 4.98 percent of the total strategic investments covered by the initiative. France, meanwhile, recorded the lowest investment total under the Green Lane initiative at P1.08 million, accounting for less than 0.01 percent of the total. The Green Lane’s investment figures and job estimates were unchanged from the data reported as of July 31.

By Mary Jade Jadormio

Sara…

Continued from A3

Flores said the prosecution is focused on presenting convincing evidence and leaving the decision to the senator-judges who will evaluate the case. “We will rise and fall based on the evidence that

available despite several generatingunit outages and records a 632 MW increase in the supply margin. At the system-wide level, average supply declined by 4.1 percent to 19,739 MW, while average demand fell by a larger 6.7 percent to 13,939 MW. As demand declined faster than supply, the average system-wide supply margin increased to 3,779 MW from 3,590 MW in July. Despite the relatively comfortable national supply margin, conditions differed significantly across the three grids. “August showed how regional conditions can differ significantly fromthenationalsupplypicture.While Luzon maintained adequate supply margins, the Visayas experienced generation deficiencies due to forced outages, tighter supply margins, and transmission constraints that limited access to additional lower-cost power. These conditions increased reliance on higher-cost oil-based plants and battery resources to meet demand, pushing market prices significantly higher,” Iemop said.

100K households without electricity to benefit from microgrid program

reached 52.36 million in July, up 3.71 million from a year earlier. Meanwhile, employment rose by 3.16 million to 49.21 million over the same period. The gap between the two growth figures coincided with an increase in the unemployment rate to 6 percent from 5.3 percent year-on-year. Underemployment, however, improved, with the rate falling to 12.9 percent from 14.8 percent and the number of underemployed workers declining by 473,000 to 6.33 million. “We need to closely monitor where employment opportunities are g row ing and where gaps remain so that our employment prog rams and ser v ices can respond to the needs of workers and jobseekers,” Tolentino said. A g r ic u lt u re a nd Fore s t r y recorded the largest year-on-year employment gain at 1.03 million, followed by Accommodation and Food Ser v ice Activ ities w ith 729,000. Manufactur ing posted the

biggest employment decline at 134,000, while Information and Commu nicat ion shed 41,0 0 0 workers. Youth employment is another area where Dole is directing its employment programs, after the youth unemployment rate rose to 18.6 percent in July from 18.1 percent a year earlier. The rate was also higher than the 13.5 percent recorded in June. DolewillcontinueitsGovernment Internship Program and Special Prog ram for Employ ment of Students to improve young Filipinos’ employability. For workers affected by floods and monsoon rains, the department will continue providing temporary employment through the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged-Displaced Workers (Tupad) program. Livelihood assistance w i l l also continue through the Dole Integrated Livelihood Program, whi le par tnerships w ith the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and the Department of Migrant Workers will link training and livelihood suppor t to employ ment and livelihood opportunities. Dole will likewise keep its Adjustment Measures Program available to micro, small and me d iu m e nt e r pr i s e s f a c i n g economic pressures, particularly those seeking to sustain operations and protect jobs.

we have presented. We are focused on making sure that our evidence is strong and properly presented,” Flores said during the briefing. He emphasized that the important issue is whether the evidence presented was enough to convince the senator-judges acting as members of the impeachment court. Tolosa echoed Flores’ statement, saying the prosecution’s priority remains the quality of its evidence and its expectation that senator-judges

will perform their duties with impartiality. He added that even if the voting threshold for conviction were lowered, weak evidence would still not justify a conviction. Conversely, strong evidence should be enough to secure a conviction regardless of the required number of votes. Tolosa stressed that while impeachment authority belongs to the Senate as a political institution, the proceedings remain a legal process where decisions must be based on evidence.

“At the end of the day, even if this authority is given to a political institution such as the legislature, judgement must still be based on evidence,” he said. The Senate Impeachment Court is expected to decide whether the constitutional requirement of 16 votes from all 24 senators should remain the standard for conviction or whether only participating senators should be counted. Four senators have not been attending the pro-

ceedings: Sens. Jose Pimentel Ejercito alias Jinggoy Estrada and Rodante Marcoleta, who are detained over separate plunder cases; Loren Legarda, who is on extended medical leave; and Ronald dela Rosa, who is on the lam owing to an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court. The Impeachment Court has scheduled oral arguments on the voting threshold issue and plans to invite legal experts as friends of the court to provide guidance on the matter.

patory, with members and officers of School Governing Councils elected by community members and communities taking a genuine role in developing, implementing and evaluating School Improvement Plans. Nevertheless, Guevarra stressed that the local government should be able to localize the program, the strategies, the techniques. And they should be able to adjust the time schedule of the programs. Instead of developing core competencies, she said the mayors should focus on reading, mathematics and science. A key feature of the proposal is the creation of a Seal of Good Education Governance, which would serve as a gateway for LGUs seeking greater control over education functions. Among the proposed benchmarks are a minimum 3.5 score out of 5 on the Local School Board scorecard; a 90 percent retention rate for children enrolled at the beginning of the school

year; at least 90 percent cohort survival from Grade 1 to Grade 4, or Grade 6 in certain cases; and significant improvements in reading. Guevarra said the reading targets include reducing the number of non-readers and frustrated readers by at least 55percent and increasing the number of independent readers by 100percent by the end of the school year. She emphasized the approach is designed to make devolution conditional on performance rather than simply administrative boundaries. “Clear rules + adequate resources + capable people + institutional support” would be necessary for effective devolution, according to the presentation. Guevarra also acknowledged that scaling up the model to provincial governments presents a different set of challenges. In theory, provincial governments can

coordinate with municipal governments. But provinces currently have no direct relationship with schools, while provincial school boards have yet to be “reinvented,” with municipal mayors forming part of these boards. Guevarra stressed that Synergeia’s work on local leadership in education would continue to focus primarily on city and municipal governments, while the model is further developed for possible provincial application. Moreover, she said decentralization should not mean simply handing over education responsibilities to LGUs. Rather, Guevarra said devolution should be earned through demonstrated capacity—and matched with the authority, resources and accountability needed to deliver better results for children.

I T H more Fi l ipi nos entering the labor force than the number of jobs added over the past year, the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) said it is putting greater focus on matching jobseekers with available work. Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino directed regional offices to coordinate with local governments and Public Employment Service Offices (Peso) to intensify employment facilitation, particularly in areas where jobs have declined. “Employ ment remains si g n i f ic a nt ly h i g he r t h a n a year ago, but the increase in unemployment reminds us that there are Filipinos who continue to seek work,” Tolentino said. “We will continue to strengthen employ ment faci litation and connecting jobseekers with available opportunities,” he added. St a r t i ng Se ptember, Dole will hold monthly Trabaho Agad job fairs nationwide, with Pesos fast-tracking applicants who are already “near-hires” and only need to complete rem a in ing documentary requirements. “The goal is not only to bring the unemployment rate down, but to put more Filipinos in decent, more productive work,” Tolentino said. Based on the latest Labor Force Survey of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the labor force

9:00 p.m. Its available capacity was at 2,731MW while its peak demand reached 2,600MW. There are 13 plants on forced outage in September, seven plants since August, four since July, one since June, two since January, one since 2025, and one since 2024, while six plants are running on derated capacities, for a total of 769.7MW unavailable to the grid. The factors that contributed to the yellow alert declaration is the unavailability of Mindanao’s large coal plants GNPK 2 & 3. The sustained high prices in Visayas and Mindanao also resulted in the application of the Secondary Price Cap (SPC)—a WESM pricemitigation mechanism designed to limit prolonged exposure to high spot market prices once the prescribed cumulative price threshold is reached. In contrast, the average price in Luzon declined to P4.80 per kWh from P7.30 per kWh as demand decreased substantially and sufficient generation remained

Education… Continued from A3

While national authorities would set standards and processes for effective pedagogy and provide resources for capacity building, she said local governments could assess teachers’ needs, develop teacher-development plans and partner with NGOs and academic institutions to deliver training. In addition, Guevarra said LGUs could also establish pools of high-performing teachers who can serve as mentors, while monitoring whether training programs—including peerto-peer learning and coaching—are actually improving teaching outcomes. School-level governance, according to Guevarra, would also become more partici-

HE Depar tment of Energ y (DOE) has identified an initial 369 unserved and underserved areas in 23 provinces that could benefit more than 100,000 unenergized households through future microgrid development under the Microgrid Systems Act (MGSA). Based on DOE’s initial list, the 101,468 unenergized households are located in Antique, Basilan, Bohol, Cagayan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Cebu, Davao Occidental, Dinagat Islands, Eastern Samar, Lanao del Sur, Marinduque, Masbate, Negros Occidental, Northern Samar, Palawan, Quezon, Southern Leyte, Sulu, Surigao del Sur, Tawi-Tawi, Samar, and Zamboanga del Sur. The list remains subject to further validation, updating, and final determination by the DOE. By providing the initial list ahead of competitive selection process (CSP) rounds, the DOE aims to give prospective investors early visibility to conduct technical assessments and plan investments. Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said microgrid development is an important part of the government’s effort to bring reliable electricity to communities that remain beyond the reach of adequate power services. “For families in remote and lastmile communities, electricity means more than keeping the lights on. It supports education, livelihoods, health services, communications, and economic opportunity. Through microgrid development, we want to bring reliable and affordable electricity closer to communities that

remain unserved, while giving capable investors a clear pathway to help us deliver it,” Garin said. The initiative forms part of the DOE’s continuing implementation of the revised implementing rules (RIRR) of the Microgrid Systems Act under Department Circular 202504-0007, which seeks to improve the efficiency, transparency, and investor responsiveness of the competitive selection framework for microgrid development. The DOE also said it has partnered with the United Kingdom’s Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (UK PACT) program to improve project readiness and reduce development risks for microgrids. Under this initiative, a site-specific assessment framework has been developed to support pre-feasibility studies and evaluate prospective projects. A detailed validation has already been completed for 10 unserved areas in Camarines Sur and Palawan. A second phase of technical assistance is underway to assess and validate an additional 15 to 25 unserved and underserved areas. The DOE stressed that the published list of areas is subject to updates, removals, or reclassifications based on new technical data, stakeholder inputs, and alignment with the National Total Electrification Roadmap. For areas excluded from the CSP rounds, the DOE said these can still be electrified via unsolicited proposals, and authorized entities can independently assess outside opportunities. Lenie Lectura

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TheWorld

Editor: Lyn Resurreccion

Iran using Houthis, Iraqis as proxies vs US Gulf allies–officials By Samy Magdy, Sarah El Deeb & Qassim Abdul-Zahra

on other countries, including Saudi Arabia, the official said. Two officials with the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), an umbrella group of militias that is officially part of Iraq’s security forces, denied involvement in the attack on Saudi Arabia and denied that the Houthis were operating under its auspices. The PMF includes powerful militias backed by Iran that sometimes act independently. All the officials and the militia member spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to media. The Houthis did not respond to a request for comment.

The Associated Press

AIRO—In July, Saudi Arabia and the United States bombed Iran-backed militias in Iraq after blaming them for drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities that had been claimed by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, another Iranian ally.

Now, regional officials tell The Associated Press that the Houthis helped the Iraqi militias plan and execute the two-day swarm attack, showing a new level of coordination. Iran spent decades building up armed groups on Israel’s frontiers that suffered major losses in the wars following Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack out of Gaza. Israel battered the Palestinian militants as well as Lebanon’s Hezbollah, which had been Iran’s most powerful ally.

Regional officials and experts say Iran is now using the Iraqi militias and the Houthis to threaten Saudi Arabia and other American allies in the Gulf in order to drive up the costs of the war launched by the US and Israel in February. It is a risky strategy. A wave of Houthi attacks on Saudi oil facilities on Tuesday threatened to reignite full-scale war with the kingdom. Iraq has ordered militias to disarm by the end of this month, though powerful Iran-backed groups have

HOUTHI supporters attend a rally against the Saudi-led coalition in Sanaa, Yemen, July 31. AP/OSAMAH ABDULRAHMAN

refused to do so. A new American effort to economically isolate Iran could spark further escalation. Iran-backed groups in Yemen and Iraq form a pincer movement The Houthi involvement in the Iraqi drone attack was confirmed by two Saudi officials, citing intelligence, and a senior Iraqi security official. They said Houthi emissaries worked in an operations room run by Iraqi militias.

Saudi Arabia and the US responded with joint airstrikes that killed at least 20 Iraqi fighters, six Iranian advisers and at least one Houthi official. The death of the Houthi, not previously reported, was confirmed by a Houthi official and an Iraqi militia member. A US m i l it a r y of f ic i a l sa id Houthis had been killed in previous strikes in Iraq. The US is concerned about the Houthi presence there and their ability to launch attacks

Cooperation grew during the war in Gaza COOPERATION between the Iraqi militias and the better organized Houthis had grown throughout the war in Gaza, when they coordinated attacks on Israel, according to the Houthi and regional officials. At the height of the war, Houthi leader Abdel-Malek al-Houthi spoke of a joint operations room. After the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, Iran and its allies began firing on Gulf nations to broaden the conflict and inflict pain on major oil producers hosting American forces. “Iran has a hybrid strategy in the current war. We are not fighting on one front and we are not using one tool,” Mahdi Mohammadi, an adviser to Iran’s parliament speaker, wrote on social media in June. “The Houthis’ growing prominence during the Gaza war opened up a new horizon in Iraq. Many groups there became eager to support the Houthis, and in return, the Houthis started sharing their military expertise with Iraqi militias,” said Ahmed Nagi, senior Yemen analyst at the Crisis Group, an international think tank. Now they are “squeezing Saudi like with pliers,” Nagi said.

Houthi blockade of Saudi Arabia ramps up pressure A WEEK before the drone swarm attack, the Houthis declared a blockade against Saudi shipping in the Red Sea, threatening another critical trade route as the wartime disruption of the Strait of Hormuz has jolted the world economy. Since late July, the Houthis have carried out over a dozen attacks against Saudi oil facilities and tankers in the Red Sea, according to the war monitor group ACLED. On Tuesday, they launched a wave of attacks on oil and other facilities in southern Saudi Arabia, wounding more than 70 people, including women and children, Saudi authorities said. The Houthi blockade has forced Saudi Arabia to adopt a “dark” transit policy that includes turning off tracking signals on oil tankers in the Red Sea, according to ACLED.

Briefs. . .

Norway to bid final farewell to King Harald V, funeral attended by royalty and dignitaries

OSLO, Norway—Norway bid its final farewell to King Harald V on Wednesday with a funeral attended by royalty and leaders from across Europe and beyond, who will pay tribute to the popular monarch’s 35-year reign. Harald, who died on August 28 aged 89, was Europe’s oldest monarch and had modernized the royal house, but refused to follow in the footsteps of other aging monarchs who have abdicated in recent times. His son immediately became King Haakon VIII and last week pledged an oath of allegiance to Norway’s constitution in parliament. On Wednesday, the coffin was taken from the royal palace to Oslo Cathedral in a procession, followed by Haakon, other senior Norwegian royals, foreign guests and representatives of Norway’s parliament and others. Ahead of the funeral, Norwegians have waited patiently to file past Harald’s coffin as it lay in state in the chapel of the royal palace in Oslo. The queue was seven hours long at one point over the weekend. Among the guests were the monarchs of Sweden, Denmark, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium and Jordan. The heir to the British throne, Prince William, was expected, as Crown Prince Akishino of Japan. Presidents from a range of European countries joined them. Norway’s monarchy traces its origins to King Harald Fairhair in the ninth century. When Norway regained its independence from Sweden in 1905, three-quarters of voters in a national plebiscite approved restoring the monarchy. AP

Belgian far-right party cannot use IKEA trademarks for anti-immigration campaign, EU court advises

STOCKHOLM, Sweden—A far-right Belgian party was likely not entitled to use IKEA’s trademarks to promote an anti-immigration campaign and may have caused “significant detriment” to the furniture giant’s reputation, the European Union’s highest court ruled on Tuesday. In 2022, the Belgian far-right and Flemish separatist party Vlaams Belang unveiled what it called the “IKEA Plan– Immigration Really Can Be Different” at a press conference, using IKEA-style logos, signs and imagery to present proposals aimed at tightening immigration rules in Belgium. IKEA brought an infringement action before a Belgian court, arguing its trademarks were used illegally. In response, the Vrijheidsfonds association, which was in charge of the campaign on the party’s behalf, argued that its use of the company’s trademarks without permission was protected by freedom of expression. The Belgian court referred the case to the European Court of Justice (ECJ), which found that “the use of those IKEA trade marks may cause significant detriment to the repute of those trade marks and to the interests of their proprietor.” The court said invoking freedom of expression in such cases requires the trademarks to be used in good faith or in the public interest, conditions that did not appear to be met. It added that it did not appear that using IKEA’s reputation to disseminate a political message took precedence over IKEA’s rights and interests. While the Belgian court will make the final decision, it is expected to take the ECJ’s guidance into account when issuing its ruling. AP

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With AI memes, Trump promotes mythical version of himself ahead of midterms By Josh Boak

The Associated Press

ASHINGTON—In the real world, US President Donald Trump is struggling to stop inflation, rout the Iranian government and restore American manufacturing with tariffs. However, it’s a different story in the fantastical vision that he shares with supporters on social media. Over Labor Day weekend, Trump and the White House unleashed an extraordinarily heavy torrent of memes that portrayed the president as singularly powerful. One video depicted Trump as a superhero wielding Green Lantern’s ring to effortlessly build a wall to keep out migrants and erect a slew of busy factories. Another post showed him in a US hockey uniform looming over Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney as Carney cowered on the ice. And another had Trump on a military ship as it bombarded an enemy fleet. Trump’s allure has always relied on a mythical version of himself, from “The Apprentice” to the White House, but the gap between meme and reality has become glaringly stark ahead of the midterm elections. Most US adults are unhappy with Trump’s handling of the economy and say the Iran war hasn’t been worth it, but Trump has responded with outlandish images of himself as unstoppable and omnipotent.

Memes risk sidestepping reality

S O M E of the pictures are generated with ar tificial intelligence, and the administration has previously defended the memes as funny and their critics as humorless. Yet the stakes right now are serious for congressional Republicans who have tied their own fate to a president with low approval numbers. Trump’s party will put him center stage at an unusual midterm convention on Wednesday and Thursday in Dallas in hopes of stoking voters’ enthusiasm. Kevin Madden, a Republican strategist, said that Trump’s social media posts can energize his base of “Make America Great

Again” followers, although the tradeoff is that he’s not talking about how to fix inflation. The voters who are likely to determine control of Congress in the midterms “are not going to be won over with memes,” Madden said. “The affordability voter is driving this election cycle and the issues they care about are anchored in the economy.” The White House press office did not respond to a request for comment. Trump sometimes plucks memes from a sprawling ecosystem of online conservative supporters, and sometimes his government staff produces them as part of their official messaging. Recently they created a series of old-school video games, such as a “Tetris” knockoff called “Build the Wall.” “The memes will continue,” Kaelan Dorr, a member of the White House communications team, recently posted on social media. “The winning will continue.”

Aging presidents promote vitality online

THE problem for Trump is that voters have other images they’re using to define him. D r i ve r s c a n s p o t t h ro u g h t h e i r windshields that gasoline is averaging $4.15 a gallon, up nearly 30 percent from a year ago because of the Iran war. And social media is inundated with questions about the 80-year-old president’s health and vitality, spurred by pictures of his bruised hands or video clips of him appearing to fall asleep in meetings. White House officials have said the bruising is caused by “frequent handshaking” and Trump’s aspirin regimen, and they’ve denied that he’s dozed off. Andrew Bates, who was a deputy press secretary for Biden, said that Trump’s memes seem to be about avoiding the actual responsibilities of governing. He said they risk angering voters who see Trump as more focused on redecorating the White House than bringing the Iran war to a successful end. “When a president who ran on bringing gas prices under $2 a gallon is now saying, ‘You’re at four dollars, it’s OK,’ it unfortunately makes sense that he’s also posting fever dreams,” Bates said.

Renoir paintings are worth a fortune, but not when stolen

WO Renoir paintings stolen from a small French museum have yet to be recovered but if the thieves are hoping to cash in on the artwork, they would be hard-pressed to find a buyer. Selling well-known, stolen ar t is impossible to do at an auction house or through other public channels without raising eyebrows. Even under the table, the value plummets. And unlike other eyecatching artifacts such as jewels, paintings can’t be chopped up and sold for parts without losing their entire worth. Art crime experts stress that most buyers simply don’t want the liability. In short, the reality looks nothing like the movies. “People always think that there is this kind of ‘Dr. No’ type from the James Bond

movie,” said Arthur Brand, a private art detective based in the Netherlands. “But that’s Hollywood. In the real world, there are no collectors like that.” Brand, who has investigated art crime for about 20 years, explains that often “nobody will touch” stolen art, particularly high-profile work. Sometimes that means paintings valued at millions of dollars are effectively “worth zero” once they’re outside of the museum, he added, if not a small fraction of the price. Tuesday’s theft at the Renoir Museum— the last home of painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir in the French Riviera—marks the latest high-profile art crime targeting collections around the world, and experts warn there could be more. AP

The Associated Press

OME—Authorities on Tuesday unveiled what is believed to be the largest fresco and mosaic complex of ancient Rome, a first century A.D. depiction of a maritime city in what became the largest bath complex in the world. Mayor Roberto Gualtieri presented the recently restored “Painted City” fresco and “Great Mosaic” that were discovered in an underground gallery during excavations in the 1990s of the Baths of Trajan on the Oppio hill near the Colosseum. The works are opening to the public

for the first time, initially in small groups of 15 and during a trial period of weekend access starting this month. The aim is to determine how the delicate works respond to increased humidity and climactic impacts before allowing more general access. Gualtieri said the fresco, which features images of a walled port city from a birds-eye view perspective, was the largest wall fresco of its kind from ancient Rome and as such needs to be open to the public. After being hidden underground for centuries, its blues and terra cotta colors are still clear but faded. “They are truly unique in the world, both from the point of view of artistic

German vote shows rise of far right in Europe By Sam Mcneil

The Associated Press

RUSSELS—The stunning victory of the Alternative for Germany (Alternative für Deutschland, or AfD) in a state election has renewed fears of an ascendant far right in Europe, as voters repeatedly vent discontent and mainstream leaders grapple with myriad crises, from affordability to Russian aggression and scraps with China and the United States over trade.

But while anti-immigrant, pro-Russian parties have made inroads across the continent in recent years, there have also been notable reversals, and some have softened their views to build coalitions with moderates. The AfD fell short of an absolute majority in Sunday’s vote in Saxony-Anhalt that would have allowed it to form the first far-right state government since the Nazi era—though it may still manage to do so. Far-right leaders from Portugal to Austria celebrated the win as they ready for elections across Europe in the coming months. These will show whether the vote was a watershed moment in the demise of an anti-fascist consensus dating back to World War II, or the latest in a series of elections worldwide in which frustrated voters simply cast out incumbents.

Far-right parties have gained influence in several governments

THE far right’s biggest success in recent years was the rise of Giorgia Meloni, who became prime minister of Italy, one of Europe’s most influential countries, at the helm of a party with neo-fascist roots. But Meloni, who campaigned as an EUskeptic, took a moderate turn in office that has won praise from across the continent and led to her presiding over the most stable government in decades. She now faces a challenge from the right, in the form of an upstart party led by a retired general. Far-right parties have meanwhile joined governments and gained key portfolios in Finland, Croatia and Slovakia. Populist anti-immigrant parties also made major gains in the 2024 elections for the European Union parliament, reflecting their growing support across the 27-nation bloc. Since then, the center-right European People’s Party has increasingly coordinated with the far right, as it did earlier this year in embarking on a historic migration overhaul that incensed traditional allies on the center left and human rights groups. “It’s a bit of a paradox: you partner up with them to prevent them from getting more powerful,” said Sophia Russack, a fellow at the Brussels-based Centre for European Policy Studies.

Populists have also suffered some notable setbacks

FOR 16 years, Hungary’s Viktor Orbán was the standard-bearer of the far right in Europe and an inspiration for populists worldwide. But he lost in a landslide in April to a former ally who had campaigned against corruption. In the Netherlands, Geert Wilders, another far-right celebrity, broke up a coalition he had helped form when his allies refused to go along with his far-reaching crackdown on immigration. The far-right, anti-immigration Reform UK party has grown in influence in the United Kingdom in recent years and was the big winner in local elections in May, a result that helped spur a panicky Labour Party to replace then-leader Keir Starmer with new Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Though it holds just eight of the 650 seats in the House of Commons, Reform has often led opinion polls and dominated political debates on immigration. Led by the veteran nationalist politician Nigel Farage, the party has been particularly successful in areas that supported Brexit in 2016. But Reform has recently suffered reverses, losing several special elections and facing questions about funding.

All eyes will be on next year’s elections in France and Spain

NEXT year’s elections in France and Spain present major opportunities for the far right to resume its march across the continent— or stumble, said Lisa Musiol, head of EU Affairs for the International Crisis Group. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, revered by the global left for his stance on migration and the wars in Gaza and Iran, has faced mass protests over the Ceuta border crisis. The far-right, anti-immigrant Vox party, which holds just 32 seats in the country’s 350-member parliament, is poised to gain. It has already entered into governing agreements with the center-right Popular Party, parliament’s second biggest faction, in four regional elections. Sánchez said Monday that the AfD win should be “a warning that the far-right threat is gaining ground in Europe and the world,” and that “a progressive coalition government is more necessary than ever.”

Ancient Rome’s biggest fresco, mosaic open to public for first time after 3 decades By Nicole Winfield

Thursday, September 10, 2026

beauty and the historic and documental importance,” he said at the unveiling. Rome’s cultural superintendent, Claudio Parisi Presicce, said the grandeur of the port city as depicted in the fresco, with buildings, a theater and temple, public piazzas and towers, was particularly well conserved. The restoration work included techniques to preserve and improve visibility, remove surface deposits and consolidate the grouting to keep the decorated surfaces intact. “We don’t know what city it refers to, but it must have been a particularly well-known one,” he said The mosaic, for its part, measures some

15 meters (yards) high and features intricately decorated columns and architectural elements and figures over four different levels. The top levels are up-close images with people that are almost like theatrical scenes, while at the bottom are views of the port city’s layout from above. The Baths of Trajan, which were dedicated by Emperor Trajan in 109 A.D., extended over six hectares (15 acres) and were at the time the largest bath complex in the world. They incorporated an earlier baths complex, the Domus Aurea, and were designed on a different trajectory to take better advantage of the water temperatures to optimize the thermal experience for users.

In France, the far-right leader Marine Le Pen is the front-runner to replace the increasingly unpopular President Emmanuel Macron, who is constitutionally barred from seeking a third term. She has long been hostile toward the EU and immigration. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, whose center-right party is among a

crowded field running against Le Pen’s National Rally, decried the Germany vote as a victory for “the neo-Nazi, anti-European and pro-Putin far right.” “We urgently need to open our eyes to the despair that is propelling such ideas and such parties to power,” he said in a post online. “It can be done, but this is our last chance.”

Thursday, September 10, 2026

prosecution welcomes Govt to boost MSME support, worker House dismissal of Carpio complaint, says skills as unemployment hits 6 percent witnesses can now testify freely By Samuel P. Medenilla

@sam_medenilla

HE government will ramp up support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and enhance worker employability to curb the soaring unemployment rate, which hit 6 percent last July amid a surge of new workforce entrants and the ongoing Middle East crisis, according to Malacañang. Citing the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), Palace Press Officer Claire Castro attributed the spike to inability of the labor force to absorb the large number of available workers. Last July, she said the country’s labor force expanded to 52.36 million while total employment only grew to 49.21 million.

The Presidential Communications Office undersecretary said the number of overseas Filipino workers (OFW), who were displaced in the Middle East conflict, also contributed to the unemployment, which reached 3.14 million last month. To address the issue, Castro said the Marcos administration will improve ease of doing busi-

ness and give more tax breaks to the private sector so the country can generate more jobs. “Because when investors can secure requirements more quickly, it is easier for them to enter the market and hire our fellow Filipinos for their businesses,” Castro said in Filipino in a press briefing last Wednesday. Tax breaks, she said, can also allow companies to expand their businesses so they employ more people. Castro said the government also continues to reform the National Education and Workforce Development Plan for 2026 to 2035 based on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Mutual Recognition Arrangements for Qualification and Skills Certification to strengthen the capacity of workers. She said the effects of the changes in education can already be seen in the outcome of the country’s 2025 Programme For International Student Assessment (PISA) results. Based on results of the 2025 PISA organized by the Organiza-

tion for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the country scored 373 in science, 371 in mathematics, and 367 in reading. “Because of this, the Philippines surpassed 14 countries in Science, 16 in Mathematics, and 18 in Reading,” Castro said. “A 10-year trend analysis by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development also showed that the Philippines is the fastest-improving country in terms of reading performance, with significant improvement in mathematics and continued progress in science,” she added. The government also continues its jobs facilitation initiatives, by holding nationwide monthly job fairs and improving the services of the Public Employment Service Offices (PESO). “Right now, we see the government’s efforts to alleviate the unemployment issue,” Castro said. DEPDev projected the country’s unemployment rate this year will be between 5.3 percent and 5.8 percent due to the existing economic headwinds.

House OKs bill extending term of barangay and SK officials

HE House of Representatives has approved a measure seeking to extend the term of office of barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials from four years to five years. House Bi l l 10971 was ap proved on third and final reading on Tuesday, after receiving 211 affirmative votes, 13 negative votes, and one abstention from lawmakers. If enacted into law, the measure will amend Republic Act No. 12232 by establishing a fixed f ive -yea r ter m for ba ra ngay and SK officials, allowing local

leaders more time to implement programs and projects in their communities. The bill also provides for the postponement of the synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) originally scheduled for November 2026. The next elections will instead be held on the second Monday of November 2028. Following the transition period, subsequent barangay and SK elections will be conducted every five years, creating a fixed electoral cycle for local officials. The measure also introduces

revised term-limit provisions for barangay and SK leaders. Under the proposed law, barangay officials may serve a maximum of two consecutive terms in the same position, while SK officials will remain limited to one term. The bill further states that incumbent barangay officials who are already serving their third consecutive term will no longer be allowed to seek the same position in the 2028 elections. As part of the transition arrangements, officials currently holding office will be considered to have completed their terms due

to the extension of their tenure by two additional years. Any remaining funds allocated for the previously scheduled 2026 BSKE will remain with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) as continuing appropriations to support preparations for the 2028 elections. Supporters of the measure said the longer fixed term would provide barangay and SK officials with more time to complete development programs while ensuring a more consistent and predictable election schedule for local government units. Jovee Marie Dela Cruz

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

HE House prosecution panel on Wednesday welcomed the dismissal of the complaint filed by lawyer Manases Carpio, husband of Vice President Sara Duterte, saying the ruling of the Quezon City prosecutor clears the way for witnesses to testify freely on allegations involving the vice president’s unexplained wealth. House prosecutor Rep. Joel Chua of Manila said the decision came at a crucial time as the Senate impeachment trial prepares to tackle Impeachment Article II, which centers on allegations that Duterte accumulated wealth that remains unexplained. Chua said the complaint filed by Carpio was expected to be dismissed because it was allegedly intended to pressure lawmakers and witnesses involved in the impeachment proceedings. “We expected this complaint to be dismissed because it was clearly a form of harassment against us for simply performing our duties,” Chua said, adding that the complaint had no sufficient legal basis. The House prosecutor maintained that the actions questioned by Carpio were performed as part of official congressional proceedings and were protected by legislative immunity. “We carried out these actions in the course of our work during the committee hearings, and we know that these activities are covered by immunity,” Chua said. Following the dismissal, Chua said the prosecution can now proceed with presenting evidence without concerns that witnesses may be discouraged from appearing before the impeachment court. “This will no longer be an obstacle for witnesses to testify in the impeachment trial, especially since the issue to be discussed now concerns unexplained wealth,” he said. Chua expressed confidence that witnesses

would no longer hesitate to participate because of the complaint filed against government officials and lawmakers. “I believe the witnesses will no longer be afraid because this pending case can no longer be used to discourage them from testifying,” he added. The prosecution expects around 10 witnesses from government agencies and private individuals, as well as representatives from at least 15 banking institutions, to testify regarding bank records, statements of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALNs), and the business interests of Duterte and her husband. The Senate Impeachment Court has already received thousands of pages of financial documents obtained through subpoenas requested by the House prosecution. Both the prosecution and defense teams are currently reviewing and marking the documents for possible presentation during trial. Chua said the prosecution is also exploring whether the defense panel could agree to stipulate certain bank documents to help speed up the proceedings and avoid unnecessary delays. Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV is among the witnesses expected to testify on Article II. Chua said Trillanes could provide significant information because he was among the first to present documents related to alleged unexplained wealth involving the Duterte family. “Trillanes will provide vital information because he was the first to present evidence, including bank documents, related to these allegations,” Chua said. Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega V of La Union also described Trillanes’ testimony as important, citing the former senator’s previous investigations into the alleged wealth of the Duterte family. “He was able to closely examine these issues and reveal information about them in the past, so his testimony will be significant,” Ortega said.

Broader, uniform definition of indigency pushed By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

ENATOR Francis “Chiz” Escudero has called for a broader definition of indigency to grant more Filipinos access to government services, saying current standards are too narrow and fail to capture the realities faced by many households. In his podcast “Chiz Wiz! Usapang May Laman,” Escudero noted that indigency is often equated with membership in the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps, leaving out families who may not be incomepoor but are unable to absorb medical or litigation costs. He pointed out that under current laws, “indigency” lacks a uniform definition, varying across the different government agencies that define it. Barangays issue certificates of indigency in accordance with the Local Government Code, the Public Attorney’s Office aligns its threshold with the Philippine Statistics Authority metrics, while the 4Ps law relies on the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s targeting system to identify poor households.

“Indigency, therefore, should also be defined by circumstance, and not just income,” he said. As an example, he cited cases of families burdened by serious illness such as leukemia who he said may be considered “cancerindigent,”while those unable to shoulder litigation costs could be classified as “litigationindigent” to reflect real situations. Even professionals, like teachers, who may earn above the minimum wage still fall into these categories when faced with extraordinary expenses. This restrictive framework, the senator said, excludes households who may exceed income thresholds but are incapable of absorbing litigation costs or medical bills. “What does indigency really mean? Meaning, are you 4Ps? The problem with our law is that it just has one meaning for a indigency. But for me, there are different levels of indigency,” Escudero said. “For example if you’re filing for nullity of marriage, it’s not easy to put together P200,000 to P500,000 for the costs of that, right? So, that person is litigation-indigent. If someone in your family is sick with cancer, your family is cancerindigent,” he explained.

Thursday, September 10, 2026

Namfrel: BARMM poll faces post-election legitimacy risk By Mary Jade Jadormio

HE results of the first Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election could face a legitimacy challenge after voting as several unresolved political and security fault lines converge, according to the National Citizens’ Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel). Namfrel said the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is showing strong mechanical and technical readiness for the September 14 polls, shifting the principal risks toward external factors, chiefly vote-buying and the conduct of the political campaign. “None of these fault lines is individually disqualifying, and none currently points to a failure of elections,” Namfrel said. “Together, however, they create multiple plausible pathways to a

post-election legitimacy dispute— regardless of who wins,” it added. The group identified the unresolved Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) succession fight, the gap between official and independent conflict data, unresolved corruption findings and the presence of private armed groups as key fault lines.

Malacañang link raises political risk

I T a l so ident i f ied perceived

Plastic crisis threatens Siquijor Island By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga

ITH a lack of proper waste management facilities, strained municipal budgets, and a growing mountain of plastic waste, local leaders and the community of Siquijor have called for support to address the growing plastic pollution problem now threatening the beauty of the island paradise. “A lot of waste has already been generated here in Siquijor, particularly single-use plastic bottles coming from Coca-Cola, Nature’s Spring, and other companies,” Lhermie P. Areja, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer (MENRO) of the Municipality of Siquijor, said in a statement. “We have been segregating and collecting their plastic packaging, but now we have nowhere to put them – our recovery facilities have already filled up. How can that be addressed, because the LGU is already completely overwhelmed?. What are we supposed to do? Where should we put them?” The question prompted the local officials, community members, environmental experts, and tourists to identify workable, lasting solutions for the island’s waste crisis in a multisectoral forum organized by international marine protection group Oceana. “To their credit, Siquijor’s local officials have been diligently implementing waste segregation programs at the grassroots level—educating communities, setting up materials recovery facilities, and pushing for discipline at the barangay level. Yet despite these earnest efforts, the sheer volume of single-use plastics flooding the island far exceeds their capacity to deal with and manage them responsibly. Even with segregation in place, the residual plastic waste continues to pile up—a stark testament that no amount of local discipline can fully solve a crisis created by continuing plastics use and production,” Froilan Grate, Executive Director of Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) said. GAIA is a worldwide network of over 1,000 grassroots groups and organizations in 92 countries working to stop waste incineration and promote zero-waste solutions. For years, the province’s local governments have been burdened with the escalating costs of managing waste generated largely by tourists and the fast-moving consumer goods companies that supply them, despite earlier initiatives to reduce single-use plastics on the island. A recent Waste Assessment and Brand Audit (WABA) conducted by Mother Earth Foundation (MEF), Oceana, and Break Free from Plastic (BFFP) paints a clear picture: while over 70% of the island’s waste is biodegradable and easily addressed through composting and use of biodigesters, a stubborn and visually damaging portion consists of single-use plastic packaging from major corporations like Coca-Cola, Philippine Spring Water (Nature Spring), Nestlé, Asia Brewery (Absolute, Summit), Universal Robina Corpo-

ration, PepsiCo, and P&G. This situation has prompted calls from forum participants to demand that the very companies responsible for the plastic polluting the island be the ones to take their plastic garbage out of Siquijor. Under the country’s Extended Producer Responsibility Act (RA 11898), these companies are legally obligated to collect and divert the plastic packaging they place into the market. “Yet in practice, islands like Siquijor are routinely overlooked, leaving LGUs to shoulder a financial and logistical burden they were never designed to carry alone—and pushing some to consider costly, high-tech fixes that may do more harm than good, such as thermal Waste to Energy [WTE] facilities,” said Miko Aliño, Asia Pacific Program Coordinator of the global Break Free from Plastic (BFFP) movement. Recognizing this dilemma, participating agencies and organizations in the forum, including local parish representatives, civil society organizations, and experts from the academe —offered a sobering but constructive caution against pursuing thermal Wasteto-Energy (WTE) incinerators. Experts advised local officials that such facilities would not only incur crippling operational debt but also risk releasing toxic emissions and ash that could further degrade the island’s pristine environment—ultimately repelling the very tourists who sustain its economy. “By releasing toxic emissions that will impact the health of communities and tourists, WTE incineration will destroy Siquijor’s reputation as an island of healing and traditional healers. The pollution associated with WTE will also persist in the environment and affect generations yet unborn,” said Dr. Jorge Emmanuel, a world-renowned scientist who has evaluated dozens of WTE incinerators from around the world. Learning from Quezon City’s experience in implementing reuse and refill initiatives, the participants recommended a more practical, affordable, and locally empowering pathway to curb the plastic waste problem: the adoption of reuse & refill practices and policies tailored for Siquijor’s growing tourism and hospitality sector. Unlike incineration, these zero-waste strategies protect the island’s natural assets, generate clean and decent local jobs in tourism, logistics, and refilling, and keep investments circulating within the provincial economy. “With this, our LGU, especially the Office of Environment and Natural Resources, is committed to work with reuse systems” said Areja. “Kasi nakita po namin iyan na isa po sa mga solusyon para maiwasan ang pagdagdag ng plastic bottles.” Siquijor saw a 17% increase in tourists between 2024 to 2025, from 241,529 to 282,269, according to Krisma Rodriguez, Negros Island Regional Director of the Department of Tourism. She emphasized that protecting Siquijor’s unspoiled image is not just an environmental issue but an economic imperative.

Malacañang or national-patronage interference as the most consequential political risk, scoring it as critical and almost certain in its risk register, the highest possible composite score of 16. Malacañang’s Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) allied with the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) in October 2024, but Namfrel said that alliance appears to have shifted toward the Bangsamoro Federalist Party (BFP) following the March 2025 installation of Abdulraof “Sammy Gambar” Macacua as interim Chief Minister. The report noted that UBJP’s Mohagher Iqbal has accused unnamed Malacañang officials of pressuring local executives toward BFP, mirroring allegations made in 2024 by the Mangudadatu bloc that the same officials favored UBJP. Namfrel stressed that no independent finding has substantiated either round of allegations, but said their repeated and opposing nature creates a ready-made delegitimization narrative for either side after the election.

The MILF succession fight could also continue beyond election day because the chief minister will be selected by the seated parliament rather than directly by voters. With 80 members of Parliament to be elected across 13 parties, Namfrel said a fragmented result could lead to coalition bargaining during the October 30 transition period, making the Chief Minister selection another potential flashpoint.

Security, results face scrutiny

SECURITY reporting presents another potential source of dispute, with official and independent monitoring producing sharply different pictures of the election environment. The joint Commission on Elections (Comelec)-Philippine National Police (PNP) monitoring report for July 16 to Sept. 4 recorded one validated election-related incident, along with 20 gun-ban violations, 34 firearms and 129 rounds of ammunition confiscated, 23 arrests and four persons detained for investigation and prosecution, and 192 firearms voluntarily sur-

rendered or deposited. The CCAA Critical Events Monitoring System, however, recorded 611 incidents and 235 deaths across Mindanao from January to July 2026, including 28 explicitly labeled election-connected. Namfrel said Comelec and PNP use a narrower attribution standard that excluded even the August 15 ambush of Macacua’s convoy from the official election-related incident count, while Comelec publicly hedged on whether the attack was election-related. “This is a definitional gap, not simply a data-quality one,” Namfrel said, warning that reliance on either source alone could lead to an inaccurate reading of the security environment. The watchdog also flagged the risk that postponement rumors could evolve into claims questioning the results once counting begins. “Namfrel’s assessment is that the postponement narrative is highly likely to mutate into a results-related delegitimization narrative once counting begins — the highest-probability disin-

formation vector for E-Day and E-Day+1,” the report said. Technical readiness, meanwhile, remains relatively strong, with more than 2.3 million ballots printed for 2.39 million registered voters and election materials confirmed deployed to provincial hubs as of August 30. Namfrel said the remaining risks include low-connectivity and grid-vulnerable areas, where delays in results transmission could be mistaken for tampering or other election problems if not explained in real time. The watchdog recommended that Comelec publicly disclose its Random Manual Audit sampling methodology, reconcile its election-related incident classification with broader independent monitoring and identify areas covered by Starlink or other backup transmission arrangements. It also urged candidates and political parties to commit to a transparent, rules-based Chief Minister selection process and refrain from amplifying unsubstantiated claims of Malacañang interference.

₧90 million Villar files bill seeking hazard pay, insurance benefits for media workers improvement

L A R K FREEPORT — Senator Mark Villar has filed a bill seeking to provide hazard pay and expanded insurancecoverage to media workers assigned to dangerous areas and emergency situations, his office said on Tuesday, September 8. Senate Bill No. 2440, or the proposed Media Workers Hazard Pay Act, would require employers to provide at least P650 in daily hazard pay to accredited media workers in the public and private sectors who are required to report in areas affected by armed conflict, disease outbreaks or disasters, as well as distressed or remote stations. The bill, filed by Villar on September 2, would cover the duration of a worker’s hazardous assignment. Workers who already receive an equivalent or higher benefit would not be entitled to separate hazard pay under the proposed measure. The measure would also require additional

insurance coverage for covered media workers, including: n A P200,000-peso death benefit for a worker who dies while performing official duties; n Up to P200,000 pesos in disability benefits for total or partial, permanent or temporary disability resulting from workrelated injuries; and n Up to P100,000 pesos in medical insurance benefits. The bill also seeks additional compensation for media workers required to work beyond eight hours a day or between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., in accordance with existing laws and recognized industry practices. Villar cited incidents involving journalists working in hazardous conditions to support the proposed measure. In 2022, a television reporter was hospitalized for nearly two weeks after contracting leptospirosis while covering an

incident in Payatas, Quezon City, according to Villar. In 2024, a reporter assigned to provide weather updates was caught in flooding in her community and nearly lost her equipment, he said. “Media workers serve as the eyes and ears of the public during times of severe crises and danger,” Villar said, adding that workers who face risks while reporting should receive protection, insurance and hazard pay. The senator said reporters, camera operators, technical personnel and other media workers provide information on disasters and emergencies, including official warnings, preparedness measures and emergency hotlines. “Behind every live report from a flooded community, an area affected by armed conflict, or a location experiencing a disease outbreak is a media worker who chose to perform their duty despite the danger,” Villar said. Ashley Manabat

Senate commends Metrobank Outstanding Filipinos

HE Senate on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, adopted Senate Resolution 629 commending the outstanding Filipinos awarded by the Metrobank Foundation. The awardees comprise of four teachers, three soldiers and three police officers whose work helped nurture learners, protect communities, and strengthen public order. Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson who sponsored the measure, lauded the awardees for their contributions to their respective fields. He likewise thanked them for their dedication to excellence and their service to their communities. “The ten outstanding Filipinos before us are a good reminder that we do not need the highest office in government to be catalysts for positive change. We do not have to be

famous to be remembered. We do not have to wait for perfect circumstances before we start doing what is right,” he said. The Outstanding Filipino Teachers recognized were Emmanuel D. Guarde, PhD, of Cornelio Lintawagin Memorial Elementary School in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro; Sheila Marie M. Amigo of Siay National High School in Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay; Cecilia O. Bucayong, PhD, of Central Mindanao University in Maramag, Bukidnon; and Jefferson A. Hora, PhD, of Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte. Meanwhile, the Outstanding Filipino Soldiers recognized were Staff Sergeant Joebelle O. Cerdinio (SC) PA, Staff Sergeant John Daren P. Noche PAF, and Lieutenant Colonel Rommel M. Geli PN(M). The Outstanding Filipino Police Officers

recognized were Police Master Sergeant Dwight Alexis B. Supsupin, Police Major Baby Rose P. Cajulao, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Robert R. Mansueto. The Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos program was established in 1985 to give recognition to individuals who serve above and beyond their call of duty. The awardees were selected from a nationwide pool through a multi-stage process that included eligibility screening, document review, field validation, background investigations, and interviews. Teacher nominees also underwent live teaching demonstrations. To date, the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos program has recognized 735 Filipinos, including 392 teachers, 178 soldiers, and 165 police officers.

Isabela ARBs explore new livelihood opportunity in tomato jam production

GROUP of agrarian reform beneficiaries in Santiago, Isabela, is exploring new ways to turn their tomatoes into additional livelihood opportunities. The Sinili Vegetable Growers Agriculture Cooperative is now venturing into tomato jam processing. During a product development training on tomato jam processing held in Sinili, Santiago City, ARB members learned practical ways to turn their fresh tomato harvest into a value-added product. The hands-on activity introduced participants to the basic preparation and processing of tomato jam, giving them skills they can potentially use to develop products for their

families, cooperatives, and local markets. Development Facilitator (DF) Melanio Dalit Sison assisted and guided the participants throughout the activity, providing hands-on support as they went through the different stages of tomato jam preparation and processing. Retired Department of Education teacher Jesusa Flores served as the resource speaker and trainer. She demonstrated the step-by-step process of making tomato jam and shared practical techniques and tips with the participants. For the ARBs, the training was an opportunity to look beyond traditional crop production and explore how their harvest can be processed into products with added value. Instead of selling

tomatoes solely as fresh produce, they can explore other ways to make their harvest more useful and potentially more profitable. The activity also forms part of the Sinili Vegetable Growers Agriculture Cooperative’s efforts to strengthen its product development initiatives and explore additional enterprise and market opportunities for its ARB members. The training also highlights how knowledge and skills can help farmer-beneficiaries maximize the value of what they produce. Through simple food processing and product development, the ARBs gain another avenue to turn their harvest into potential sources of livelihood and income. Jonathan L. Mayuga

added to Jolo port, airport

AVAO CITY - The Bangsamoro government spent almost P90 million to improve transport services and connectivity at the Jolo Port and Jolo Airport and turned them over to their respective management offices on September 3. The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) turned over several newly completed infrastructure projects. The MOTC’s Bangsamoro Ports Management Authority (BPMA) turned over a two-storey passenger terminal building with a seating capacity of 250 passengers at the Jolo Port. It costs P63-million. The BPMA also handed to the management office an P18-million operational area perimeter fence with gates, and P3.96 million worth of solar streetlights. The perimeter fence features eight gates, a cashier booth, and a parking area for motorcycles, while the solar streetlight system has 70 posts—23 with double lights and 47 with single lights. The Bangsamoro Airport Authority (BAA), on the other hand, turned over a P3-million water facility with a capacity of 13,000 liters and a P0.99-million security fence measuring 300 meters in length at the Jolo Airport. All the completed additional facilities were Funded under the Bangsamoro government’s Special Development Fund (SDF) 2023 and General Appropriations Act for the Bangsamoro (GAAB) 2023 and 2024. These were part of efforts to upgrade the province’s key maritime and aviation facilities and strengthen the movement of passengers and goods. MOTC Minister Termizie G. Masahud and Jolo Mayor Edsir Q. Tan witnessed the turnover ceremony. “These improvements are part of BPMA’s continuing efforts to upgrade port facilities and provide better, safer, and more efficient services to the people of Sulu,” the BPMA shared. “With these improvements, Jolo Port continues to strengthen its role as an important gateway for passengers, goods, and communities in the area,” the agency added. The Jolo local government welcomed the developments and emphasized its support for initiatives aimed at improving connectivity and public services. “The municipal government of Jolo remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen connectivity, enhance public service delivery, and contribute to the continued progress and development of Jolo and the Province of Sulu,” the municipality’s public information office stated. The newly operational facilities are expected to benefit passengers, port and airport personnel, transport operators, traders, and communities by improving safety, security, accessibility in the province, it said. Manuel T. Cayon

Editor: Jennifer Ng • www.businessmirror.com.ph

A10 Thursday, September 10, 2026

‘PHL rice tariff scheme transparent, predictable’ By Ada Pelonia

@adapelonia

HE Philippines assured trade partners that its rice tariff system, which adjusts to international price movements, ensures transparency and predictability. In a response to queries to the Philippines’s 6th Trade Policy Review (TPR) at the World Trade Organization (WTO), Manila said Executive Order (EO) 105 introduced a rules-based mechanism wherein rice tariffs adjust automatically within a defined band of 15 percent to 35 percent effective 2026. “This approach ensures transparency and predictability for trading partners, while allowing the Philippines to respond in a timely and calibrated manner to global market developments and domestic food security needs,” the Philippines said, in reply to questions from the European Union. During the country’s 6th TPR, the EU asked how the variable tariff system introduced this year could ensure predictability for trading partners.

Manila also said adjustments are made on a quarterly basis and rely on publicly available price data, with published schedules for tariff changes. The Philippines told trade partners like Malaysia that it could balance food security objectives with market liberalization triggered by the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) through the adoption of a “calibrated approach.” Manila said officials are closely monitoring market movements and activate appropriate measures when predefined trigger points are reached. “This ensures that adequate supply is maintained in the domestic market, while avoiding excessive imports that could adversely affect local producers,” it said. “Through this approach, the

DA: Govt investment crucial to slashing palm oil imports

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) is seeking at least P300 million in 2027 to expand local palm oil production and slash the country’s reliance on imported shipments. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the government should allocate substantial funding to develop palm oil production, since the Philippines imports around 90 percent of its requirements. The DA chief said funding for the industry was not included in its original National Expenditure Program (NEP) since the sector’s need for “greater” support only became clearer recently. “Palm oil is definitely an industry that needs support from the national government as well as the LGUs [local government units] with palm oil industries or stakeholders in their area because our palm oil producers and farmers are earning from this, and the market is there.” He said he had discussed the funding request with Senator Francis Pangilinan and Quezon Rep. Mark Enverga. The DA chief said he proposed a “much larger, longer-term funding commitment” covering as much as P1 billion annually for five years, should Congress pass legislation supporting the industry. The DA chief said the government already identified a roadmap to develop 300,000 hectares of palm oil plantations, adding that reaching 100,000 hectares by 2028 would already be a major

achievement. “The expansion could eventually help develop a domestic source of palm oil that could be used not only for food and industrial applications but also as potential feedstock for cleaner fuel.” Tycoon Isidro A. Consunji said last June that the Philippines consumes 1.1 million metric tons (MMT) of palm oil per year, with domestic production at a measly 100,000 metric tons (MT), or 9 percent of local demand.

Dedicated team

MEANWHILE, the DA chief said the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) should have a dedicated deputy administrator and teams specifically focused on palm oil and coconut development. “What is important is that we can build an agency or organize the PCA not just as a coconut authority, but to have a deputy administrator specifically for palm oil and coconut so they have their own teams,” he said. He added that a more clearly defined structure could help the industry move faster and give it more specific functions. He also said the DA supports the certification of the proposed Palm Oil Bill as urgent and would make an official recommendation to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. “For an industry that currently sources most of its supply from abroad, the push is aimed at turning palm oil from a major import requirement into a larger domestic agricultural industry.” Ada Pelonia

Philippines seeks to safeguard both consumer welfare—by ensuring stable and affordable food supply—and the livelihoods and incomes of domestic farmers.” EO 105 issued by the Philippine government came into force early this year. It stipulates that tariffs will be adjusted by 5 percentage points per 5 percent adjustment in international prices. At present, the tariffs levied on rice remain in status quo, which is 15 percent.

‘Market efficiency’

THE Philippines stressed that the RTL improved market efficiency by replacing quantitative restrictions with a tariff-based import regime consistent with its WTO commitments. Aside from helping stabilize domestic stockpiles, the country said it also generated tariff revenues that bankroll the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), which aids in farm mechanization, credit assistance, high-quality seed development, and extension services. The Philippines also said certain measures complement tariffication, such as the sourcing of rice buffer stocks by the National Food Authority (NFA) from local farmers and targeted interventions to

THIS BusinessMirror file photo shows workers from a rice warehouse loading and unloading sacks of rice in Divisoria, Manila. NONIE REYES

address market disruptions. “These measures are intended to balance the interests of consumers and producers while ensuring an adequate and stable rice supply,” Manila said, in response to questions from Phnom Penh. In the medium-term, the Philippines said it will continue to implement a tariff-based rice import regime and monitor domestic and international market developments. If deemed necessary, Manila said it would undertake “measures consistent with its international obligations to support food se-

curity, promote market stability, and enhance the long-term competitiveness of the domestic rice sector.”

Assistance

MEANWHILE, Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto said the Marcos administration’s rice program addresses the twin goals of providing free rice to nearly eight million vulnerable families nationwide and supporting Filipino farmers by buying their harvests. Recto made the assurance as he led the distribution of 10 kilograms of rice each to 1,500 families

in Quezon, Bukidnon and turned over Socio-Civic Projects Fund (SCPF) checks to all 464 barangays in the province. The activity marked the first of four rounds of rice distribution in the municipality of Quezon under the Bawat Bayan Makikinabang Rice Distribution Program. Upon completion, 8,000 families in the municipality will each receive 10 kilograms of rice every two months. “Dala rin po namin ngayong araw ang rice program ng Pangulo para matiyak na walang Pilipinong magugutom. Sa buong Pilipinas, halos walong milyong pamilya ang makikinabang,” Recto said. “At ang maganda sa programang ito, ang bigas na matatanggap ninyo ay galing mismo sa ani ng ating mga magsasaka,” he added, underscoring that the program supports both v ulnerable families and Filipino rice farmers. The government has allocated P178 million in rice assistance for 261,000 families across Bukidnon, including P5 million for 8,000 beneficiaries in Quezon. Recto said the program will not end after this year, citing the proposed P58.53-billion allocation for the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) in the 2027 national budget.

Planters to get biofertilizer for rice farms

ICE farmers will receive free biofertilizers under a flagship program of the Department of Agriculture (DA) as part of its efforts to improve the health of local soil battered by excessive synthetic fertilizer use. In a document obtained by BusinessMirror, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. signed Memorandum Circular (MC) 39, which outlined the guidelines for distributing biofertilizers to eligible rice farmers under the National Rice Program (NRP). “To minimize the detrimental residual effects of continuous application of agrochemicals on the ecosystems, and based on the results of scientific studies, it was

found that microbes can benefit plants in improving growth, disease resistance, resilience to harsh climatic conditions, among others. Hence, the use of biofertilizers.” Reducing the use of synthetic fertilizer is expected to boost the productivity of farms planted with rice and other crops. The program will be implemented nationwide, with a caveat that beneficiaries should be members of rice farm clusters registered under the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) and encoded in the RSBSA Profiling Platform (RSBSAPP). Eligible far mers can claim the biofertilizer by presenting a printed discount voucher (PDV)

or using intervention monitoring cards (IMCs) on any DA-accredited merchants. Under MC 39, farmer beneficiaries of hybrid rice seeds from the NRP and certified inbred seeds from the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) would be prioritized in the distribution of biofertilizer. “However, in case of ‘excess biofertilizer’ wherein all the beneficiaries have been provided with the recommended fertilizer, the RSBA-registered rice farmers in clustered and non-clustered areas who procure their own rice seeds may also be considered as beneficiaries.” To ensure the quality of biofer-

tilizers to be procured, the DA’s regional field offices (RFOs) stipulate stringent testing and certification standards for the products to be distributed. Biofertilizer suppliers will also be evaluated through a pointbased system, taking into account the price, efficacy and effectiveness, provision of technical support, and local production. The RFOs are required to submit monthly reports about the program’s implementation through the Operations Management Information System (OMIS). “Biofertilizer is found to be economical, promotes soil health, plant growth, and crop yields,” the DA said. Ada Pelonia

AFL allows fruit exporters to earn more than $200M

OCAL fruit exporters generated a combined $290.71 million in booked and undernegotiation sales during a two-day fresh produce trade show in Hong Kong, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA). The Philippines returned to Asia Fruit Logistica (AFL) after almost a decade as part of efforts to expand the country’s export market portfolio. The fair was held at AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong last September 2 to 4. Broken down, exporters secured $222.75 million in booked sales and $70.4 million in undernegotiation sales across four commodities, such as banana (Cavendish and Cardaba), durian, mango,

and dragon fruit. Of this, durian held a lion’s share of the total generated sales at around $275 million. This was followed by Cavendish and Cardaba bananas at $11 million and $3.5 million, respectively. Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said the government and the private sector actively promote the country’s tropical fruits. “Our efforts are now bearing fruit to further increase the income of our farmers, especially those in the high-value commercial crops (sector),” De Mesa told reporters on Wednesday. He also said the DA will go to Rome in October for the United Nations Food and Agriculture Or-

ganization’s (FAO) global Hand-inHand (HIH) initiative, where they will pitch mango, seaweeds, coffee, and cacao to private investors. AFL, Asia’s leading fresh produce trade show, covers the fresh produce supply chain and allows exporters to meet buyers, distributors, retailers, and other industry players. The 2026 edition featured over 760 exhibitors and some 14,000 buyers from 80 countries. The Philippine delegation was led by Agriculture Undersecretary for High Value Export Crops and Agri-Fishery Export Development and Promotion Philip Young. “We are participating not merely to exhibit but to forge durable global partnerships, secure vital

market shares, and showcase the unmatched quality of our highvalue export crops,” Young said. Stakeholders who joined the trade show included Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA) and the Philippines Banana Council Inc. (PhilBana Council). Also present were the Durian Exporters Association of the Philippines Inc. (DEAP), the National Mango Farmers and Stakeholders Federation Inc., and the Philippine Dragon Fruit Growers Association. The agency said it already identified 16 priority export commodities as part of its broader overseas market development program. Ada Pelonia

Ghana plans 6% cocoa price hike, risking more Ivorian smuggling

HANA’S cocoa industry regulator has proposed raising farmers’ pay by about 6 percent for the new season, which would further widen the gap over prices in neighboring Ivory Coast and risk more smuggling over the border. The second-biggest grower intends to change the farmgate price to 2,737 cedis ($240) per 64-kilogram bag for the 2026-27 season that starts this month, according to people familiar with the matter, who asked

not to be identified as the details are private. That’s up from 2,587 cedis currently, and is subject to the finance minister’s approval, the people said. The revision is in line with Ghana’s aim to ensure that farmers get at least 70 percent of the free-on-board export cost in an effort to set a price floor for growers. The increase also comes as global futures rallied about 50 percent since the end of May on worries about a smaller

West African harvest, due to crop disease and a strong El Niño weather pattern that could cause severe flooding or drought. Ghana’s new price would equate to roughly 75 percent more than in top producer Ivory Coast, which has kept pay unchanged. That could potentially cause more Ivorian beans to be smuggled out to countries such as Ghana, where prices are higher. A spokesperson for Ghana Cocoa Board,

the regulator, declined to comment. A spokesman at the Finance Ministry also declined to comment. Smuggling has been prevalent in West Africa for decades, and has been a particular issue for Ghana and Ivory Coast—countries that tightly control their markets. Ghana had targeted 650,000 tons of output in the 2025-26 season, but deliveries actually exceeded 750,000 tons, partly because of smuggled

beans from neighboring countries.

Tighter supplies

EXPECTATIONS are mounting that the global cocoa market will flip into deficit. Ivory Coast’s output could slump about a fifth to 1.75 million tons in the 2026-27 season, according to a survey of traders and pod counters conducted in late August. Ghana expects its harvest to drop 13 percent to 650,000 tons, Bloomberg

reported last month. Ghana wants to assert greater control over its supply chain and depart from a price-fixing regime to one that aligns domestic prices with the international market. It has targeted raising 16.3 billion cedis in a cocoa bill sale to fund purchases from farmers, and set up a special purpose vehicle to sell the bills, which will be listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange, Bloomberg has reported. Bloomberg News

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2nd Front Page BusinessMirror

FARMERS, FISHERS TO RECEIVE P6.2-B AID FOR EL NIÑO IMPACT By Ada Pelonia

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) is set to release P6.2 billion from a government program to help farmers and fisherfolk amid expectations that El Niño will ravage plantations in 2027. Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said the DA has already requested P6.2 billion from the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) program to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM). This would provide farmers and fisherfolk with fertilizer and fuel assistance in preparation for the impact of the dry spell on the farm sector. The current El Niño is expected to peak in the fourth quarter. “Those with very little water will struggle. So, the DA will maximize the yield in areas not affected by El Niño, which is why there is a request for a budget under the UPLIFT,” de Mesa told reporters on Wednesday. “Normally, when there’s a strong El Niño, it will be followed by La Niña towards the end of 2027. So, 2027 is a more challenging year compared to 2026.” At present, de Mesa said the agency is awaiting the special allotment release order (Saro) from

the DBM for it to be disbursed to registered beneficiaries. The DA also requested funding of around P5 billion for solar irrigation projects in its 2027 National Expenditures Program (NEP) to respond to the threat of the dry spell. “We’re focusing on local production, but we will not stop imports to boost our stocks because we’ll have an issue in our rice supply not for this year but next year, especially those affected by the dry season harvest come March or April,” de Mesa said. With this, de Mesa said the agency expects rice imports to reach around 5 million metric tons (MMT) this year, exceeding the record-high shipments of 4.81 MMT in 2024 when the country was also struck with El Niño. Latest government data showed that rice arrivals reached 3.67 MMT as of September 3, the majority of which coming from Vietnam at 2.65 MMT. Earlier, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the repeated rounds of heavy rain could cushion the expected blow of El Niño on the local rice sector. He said the recent weather disturbances could minimize the projected year-on-year decline in rice output to around 400,000 metric tons (MT), from its previous forecast of 700,000 MT.

Thursday, September 10, 2026 A11

PHL posts best ever PISA results; reforms pushed

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

O keep the momentum going following a breakthrough performance in the 2025 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), the Department of Education (DepEd) disclosed its plan to rollout PISA for Schools. The Philippines posted its best PISA performance to date, improving across all three core subjects and emerging among the most improved education systems in the latest cycle—results that lawmakers and education officials say strengthen the case for sustaining, and expanding, investment in the country’s ongoing reform agenda. Filipino 15-year-olds scored 373 in Science, 371 in Mathematics, and 367 in Reading in PISA 2025, up by 17, 16, and 20 points, respectively, from the country’s 2022 scores. The results also surpassed the Philippines’s 2018 performance in all

three subjects, according to results released by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara said that the PISA schools, an OECD assessment service, are designed to provide school-level results benchmarked against international performance. “We have to keep our momentum going after our best performance yet in PISA. This [PISA for Schools] can help us understand more clearly what is happening inside our schools and where support is most needed. The objective is to turn bet-

ter data into better decisions, so that improvements in our national results are felt by learners in the classroom,” Angara said. Meanwhile, the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd) described the 2025 PISA results as highly encouraging. “These gains show that progress is possible when we focus on learning and act with urgency, and Filipino learners can indeed make significant progress,” PBED said in a statement as they commended the teachers, school leaders, learners, parents, and the DepEd led by Angara. The results, PBED said, tells that reforms can work. However, PBED stressed that the remaining gaps tell that there is a need to do more, and do it differently. “We must sustain what is working, identify what is driving improvement, and bring effective practices to every school—especially those serving learners who are furthest behind. This also strengthens the case for greater decentralization in education. Those closest to the learner are often in the best position to identi-

fy what is needed. We need to give schools and local education leaders more authority, resources, and accountability to respond to learning gaps—while maintaining clear national standards for outcomes,” they added.

Hopeful

PBED said, “PISA gives us a reason to be hopeful and a way forward.” “If our students can improve this much in three years, imagine what we could achieve if we systematically put resources and decisionmaking where they can have the greatest impact: closer to the classroom,” Pbed said, stressing that the goal is not simply to climb the PISA rankings. “The goal is for every Filipino child to read with understanding, solve problems, think critically, and acquire the skills they need to thrive. The latest results tell us we are capable of getting there and that the learning crisis can be reversed.”

Results at school level

UNLIKE the national PISA, which measures performance at the country level, PISA for Schools provides See “PISA,” A2

NCR wage board OKs new ₧60 hike By Mary Jade Jadormio

LOVE, REVIVED AND ELECTRIC First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Atty. Don Artes and local government officials lead the

inauguration of the revived MMDA Love Bus at the MMDA Head Office in Pasig City on Wednesday, September 9, 2026. The iconic Love Bus, introduced by the government-run Metropolitan Manila Transit Corp. (MMTC) in 1976 and closely associated with then-Metro Manila governor Imelda Marcos, became known as the country’s first air-conditioned bus service and a symbol of modernized public transport. The revived service deploys 10 fully electric, air-conditioned buses offering free rides along key routes in Quezon City, Pasig and Mandaluyong, aimed at easing traffic congestion, reducing carbon emissions and providing commuters with more comfortable public transport. NONOY LACZA

PBBM attending BRICS gab in India By Samuel P. Medenilla

RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will push for greater cooperation between BRICS member countries and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) on security as well as people and economic empowerment in his trip to India during the weekend, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). As the current chair of Asean, the chief executive was invited by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India on September 12 to 13. During the trip, Marcos will also hold bilateral talks with Modi to get updates on the PhilippinesIndia five-year action plan from 2025 to 2029. In a press briefing Wednesday, DFA spokesperson Analyn D. Ratonel described the Summit as a “strategic opportunity” to present the position of the Asean member countries and interact with major emerging countries representing half of the

world’s population. The theme of the BRICS Summit this year is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” which aims to address global economic uncertainties, leverages, new digital public infrastructure and accelerated collective climate action. “President Marcos Jr. will have the opportunity to explain the Philippines’s key priorities as Asean Chair to BRICS members. These priorities revolve around peace and security, people empowerment, and prosperity,” Ratonel said in Filipino. “Creating synergies in the priorities of Asean and BRICS can lead to economic opportunities, trade diversification, regional security, and support for climate resilience,” she added. BRICS—named after its founding members initially Brazil, Russia, India, China, and then later South Africa—is an intergovernmental organization created to serve as a consultation and cooperation platform for emerging countries.

From its four members when it was founded in 2006, it now counts Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia. BRICS also has partner countries: Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam. Ratonel said the possible inclusion of the Philippines in BRICS as a member or partner country is not expected to be tackled in the President’s upcoming trip to India. “That would require further study at this moment and close monitoring. And we would also follow the experiences of our fellow Asean countries as member of BRICS,” she

Bilateral meeting

WHEN asked if Marcos will hold bilateral talks with leaders of BRICS countries, the DFA official said the chief executive is currently only scheduled to meet with Modi to discuss possible areas of cooperation between Philippines and India, which may include

flood mitigation measures, after both countries elevated their relations into a “strategic partnership” last year. “I do not wish to preempt what the President would specifically raise with Prime Minister Modi but because of our strategic partnership with them, we prefer to deepen our cooperation with them on defense and security, science and technology, trade and investment, including climate change,” Ratonel said. She said the President will not “seek any bilateral alignment with any nation” since he will participate in the BRICS Summit as the 2026 Asean Chair. While in New Delhi, Marcos will also meet with Indian business leaders to get updates on the US$5.8 billion worth of investment pledges from Indian firms engaged in the sectors of technology, health, energy and infrastructure. “The President’s program includes engagement with Indian business leaders to strengthen the trade and investment ties with India,” Ratonel said. She said Marcos will be accompanied by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, Foreign Secretary Maria Thresa P. Lazaro, Information Secretary Henry R. Aguda, and Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go on his two-day trip in India.

ETRO Manila workers could get a P60 daily minimum-wage increase after the regional wage board approved a new wage order, even as an earlier P85 increase remains caught in a court injunction. According to Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-NCR Director Roy Buenafe, Wage Order No. 28 will bring the minimum wage for covered non-agriculture workers in Metro Manila to P755 once affirmed by the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC). Buenafe said the order had been forwarded to the NWPC for confirmation, with publication possible on Friday and effective on September 26 or 27 if affirmed. “This is a one-time tranche of P60. And if ever the Commission will affirm such a Wage Order, perhaps we could publish this on Friday, the effectivity would be September 26 or 27, Mr. Chair,” Buenafe told lawmakers during the House budget hearing on the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) proposed 2027 budget. Disclosure of the new wage order came as lawmakers were questioning the status of Wage Order No. 27, which prescribed a total P85 increase but has been stalled by a court injunction. Under Wage Order No. 27, the first P60 tranche was supposed to raise the NCR minimum wage from P695 to P755, followed by another P25 increase in January 2027. Buenafe told lawmakers that Wage Order No. 27 remains with the court and that the wage board considers it not to have attained full effectivity. “Wage order number 27, Mr. Chair, is with the court. And we believe in the Wage Board that it has not attained its full effectivity, Your Honor,” he said. That legal limbo prompted the NCR wage board to issue a separate order, which Buenafe said was intended to deliver the first P60 tranche to workers

FATF…

Continued from A1

circular noted. The BSP said BSFIs may be engaged to provide “strategic” insights on the Philippiness’ sustained compliance with FATF standards and global best practices during the Mutual Evaluation process. “Relative thereto, all BSFIs are enjoined to extend their full cooperation and active participation in the BSP’s ME-related activities and data-gathering initiatives, until the adoption of the ME Report, in support of the Philippines’s efforts to achieve a successful ME,” the central bank said.

despite the unresolved court case. “The decision of the Wage Board in coming up with a P60 increase is just... We believe that it’s the best way that we can deliver immediately what has been waited by the workers, which is the first tranche of wage order number 27,” he said. However, lawmakers questioned whether the new order effectively eliminates the remaining P25 increase that was supposed to take effect in January 2027 under Wage Order No. 27. One lawmaker pointed out that Wage Order No. 27 mandated a total P85 increase, with P60 as the first tranche and P25 due in January 2027, before asking whether the issuance of Wage Order No. 28 meant that the P25 was already gone. Buenafe said the regional wage board retains its authority to issue another wage order even after an earlier order has been issued. “The Regional Wage Board as a mandated agency to legislate as a recipient of the delegated power of Congress can still exercise its power even after months of this issuance, Mr. Chair,” he said. The hearing also clarified that the injunction against Wage Order No. 27 remains in force unless the court formally rescinds it. Lawmakers noted that although no bond had been posted in connection with the injunction, the order could not simply be treated as ineffective without a court ruling. Buenafe agreed with the assessment. That creates a potential overlap between the two wage orders, particularly if the court later lifts the injunction and Wage Order No. 27 becomes enforceable. Asked whether Wage Order No. 28 could become unnecessary in that scenario, Buenafe answered in the affirmative. The new wage order was approved by the NCR board through a 4-3 vote, with three government representatives and one employer representative voting in favor, while two labor representatives and another employer representative dissented. Based on the FATF’s website, the possible onsite period for the next round of mutual evaluation for the Philippines is in November 2027 while possible plenary discussion is slated to happen in July 2028. The Philippines exited from the FATF grey list on February 21,2025 after more than three years or since June 2021. FATF’s decision to remove the Philippines from its grey list came after the country strengthened the effectiveness of its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CFT) measures regime to meet the commitments in its action plan. (See: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2026/02/03/phl-risks-return-tofatf-gray-list-on-flood-mess/)

A12 Thursday, September 10, 2026 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

editorial

Expanding educational access: A step toward inclusive opportunity

RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s signing of Republic Act 12325 marks a significant expansion of the country’s commitment to educational equity, extending free tuition beyond public institutions to include private colleges and technical-vocational schools for disadvantaged learners. This amendment to the 2017 Universal Access to Quality Education law represents more than a policy adjustment—it signals a recognition that financial barriers to education persist long after admission letters are received. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Expanded access to quality education signed into law,” September 6, 2026).

The legislation addresses a critical gap in the country’s educational landscape. While the original Republic Act 10931 successfully opened doors to millions of students in public institutions, data reveals that access remains uneven. With only 1.23 percent of 4Ps senior high school completers accessing Tertiary Education Subsidy benefits in Academic Year 2024–2025, the need for expanded reach is evident. By including private institutions and technical-vocational programs, RA 12325 acknowledges that quality education exists across sectors, and poverty should not determine where deserving students can study. The creation of the Private Education Assistance (PEA) and the inclusion of support for internships, related learning experiences, and daily allowances demonstrate a nuanced understanding of educational economics. Tuition is merely the entry fee; staying in school requires resources for transportation, materials, and living expenses. The provision for an additional year of support for students facing economic hardship, health issues, or disasters recognizes that life circumstances often disrupt academic timelines, particularly for vulnerable populations. However, the true measure of this legislation will lie in its implementation. The requirement for CHED, Tesda, UniFAST, and other concerned agencies to develop implementing rules and regulations presents both opportunity and challenge. Clear criteria for “priority programs” must be established to ensure alignment with national workforce needs. Public institutions must move quickly to establish support systems—waived examination fees, assistive technologies, and dormitory access—that the law mandates. The administration’s emphasis on this expansion as part of broader workforce development strategy is noteworthy. With 140 local colleges now appearing in World University Rankings for Innovation, up from just 12 in 2022, the connection between educational access and national competitiveness becomes clear. Each student who completes their degree represents not just personal advancement but human capital that strengthens the nation’s economic position. Rep. Raymond Adrian Salceda’s observation that poverty should not prevent deserving students from achieving their dreams captures the essence of this legislative milestone. Yet dreams require more than legislative intent—they demand consistent funding, transparent administration, and ongoing evaluation to ensure benefits reach intended recipients. RA 12325 represents fertile ground for the seeds of the nation’s youth. Whether those seeds flourish depends on the care with which this expanded access is cultivated and maintained in the years ahead. Since 2005

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The system that certified itself John Mangun

OUTSIDE THE BOX

EDERAL prosecutors say Daejon Love spent years convincing women he played pro football for the San Francisco 49ers in order to scam them into romance and investment schemes. He was arrested on August 24 and now faces two federal wire fraud counts in Oregon, each carrying a maximum of 20 years behind bars. Give him credit for commitment to his fraud. At some point his fabricated online presence grew dense enough that a Google AI Overview identified him as an actual player, and Love began pointing to that search result as proof. The search engine had not verified anything. It had synthesized a false online footprint into a confident answer, and confidence is what people mistake for verification. The Philippines spent the better part of a decade building the same kind of machine, aimed at concrete instead of a football career, and it worked for roughly as long as nobody asked it a direct question. Finance Secretary Ralph Recto told the Senate last year that flood control corruption from 2023 to 2025 may have cost the economy P42 billion to P118 billion. The figure is not a tally of stolen money. It rests

on a guess that 25 percent to 70 percent of project costs vanished, which explains the large range. Senators Panfilo Lacson and Sherwin Gatchalian ran their own extrapolated numbers. The result came in above P180 billion in one version and near P79 billion in another, both from Lacson on the same day. Nobody has a confirmed number. What exists is a rough shape of the theft, filled up with decimal points. The peso estimates above are shaky guesswork. The numbers on how many projects were fake are more solid. DPWH announced in October 2025 that 421 of roughly 8,000 inspected projects were validated as ghost projects, a finding reached jointly with the Department of Economy, Planning and Development, the

police, and the military. By December the count passed 600 out of nearly 10,000, proof the first number was a floor. A February 2026 investigation found a Laguna de Bay project, 70 percent built, that the department’s own transparency portal listed as a flood control project even though the contract never called it that. The bid data sheet correctly listed the work as flood control, but the contract just never said so, meaning the discrepancy sat inside DPWH’s own files before the public ever saw the Philippine Google Overview portal. Built to check the record against the ground, it simply repeated what an earlier document already had wrong. President Marcos separately reported that 6,021 projects worth more than P350 billion carried descriptions too vague to specify what kind of flood control structure had actually been built, and that a number of unrelated projects in different locations carried identical contract costs. Some coincidence. Vague paperwork and matching prices are not proof of copied fraud. But they are exactly the kind of pattern a functioning system should have flagged well before a senator had to extrapolate from a sample to guess at the damage. Marcos also announced that no fresh, locally funded flood control projects would be included in the proposed 2026 budget, arguing that roughly P350 billion allocated in 2025 had not yet been fully utilized.

The government has since launched a redesigned transparency portal and continued the investigations. That is a real response. It does not answer the harder question the scandal exposed. Publishing more records does not restore trust on its own when the old records were good enough to certify projects that did not exist. The new portal may make the paperwork easier to see. It still has to prove that the paperwork corresponds to what is on the ground. In Marilao, Bulacan, a river wall in Barangay Prenza II collapsed on August 10, 2026, roughly two months after it had been declared complete. In Cebu, Governor Pam Baricuatro noted the province had received P26 billion in flood control funding and still flooded severely when Typhoon Tino struck in November 2025. Neither failure proves its own project was a ghost entry in someone’s ledger. Both show a record of a project meeting standards that the real world declined to honor. Love’s fabricated career survived until federal investigators finally checked it against reality rather than against the record. The Philippines has not finished that same check on its own paperwork, and the next typhoon will not wait for the results. E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities Inc.

Merz pledges consequences after rout by Germany’s far right By Arne Delfs, Kamil Kowalcze & Michael Nienaber

ERMAN Chancellor Friedrich Merz said his government will have to learn the lessons from an overwhelming victory by the far right in a state election that he said will alter the country’s politics. The anti-immigration Alternative for Germany secured its best-ever result in Saxony-Anhalt on Sunday, putting the party three seats short of an outright majority to lead the first far-right government in the country since World War II. Merz’s Christian Democrats, who have led the region since 2002, saw their support collapse. Saying he was “deeply shocked” by its unexpectedly weak performance, Merz said the party will take stock after two more state elections later this month. He remains committed to leading the government and pushing ahead with the coalition’s reform agenda, he said. “This day not only changed things in Saxony-Anhalt, but also Germany as a whole,” Merz told reporters in Berlin after meeting the party leadership on Monday, calling it the worst result for the CDU in decades. “Of course, there will have to be consequences.”

Merz’s beleaguered 16-month chancellorship has been accompanied by speculation that he could be replaced as head of government as his reform efforts fail to gain traction with the public amid sluggish economic growth and rising energy prices. On election night, party officials in Saxony-Anhalt laid the blame squarely with Merz, according to people familiar with the discussions. Still, with two more state votes coming on September 20—in the eastern state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and in Berlin—there is little appetite for an immediate decision on Merz’s future. The AfD more than doubled its support in Saxony-Anhalt to 44 percent on Sunday, while the CDU’s backing dropped by more than half to 17 percent. The AfD, elements of which are considered by German domestic intelligence to be a right-wing threat to the constitutional order, has tapped into public grievances

with its call to halt migration, end efforts to tackle climate change and restore relations with Russia. “No chancellor has been as unpopular as Merz,” AfD co-leader Alice Weidel told reporters on Monday, reiterating her ambition to secure more than 40 percent support nationwide, with the next national election due in 2029 at the latest. “People want a change in policy—they don’t want things to continue as they are.” Whether the party and its lead candidate, Ulrich Siegmund, can head the next government in SaxonyAnhalt will depend on parliamentary maneuvering. Weidel said the AfD

will reach out to partners, including disaffected CDU lawmakers in the state legislature in Magdeburg. BSW, a breakaway party founded by former Left leader Sahra Wagenknecht, is the only party that has said it is willing to cooperate with the far right. Lawmakers will meet on October 6 at the latest, after which they’ll hold a series of secret ballots to install the state premier. Siegmund could clear that hurdle to take power, though the AfD would lack a majority on its own. The state leader intimated that the party could simply win the next election after the deadlock makes forming a government impossible, echoing comments he made to Bloomberg last week. CDU state premier Sven Schulze, standing alongside Merz, said his party didn’t have a governing mandate after the defeat, ruling out for now any ambitions to assemble a broader coalition to prevent the AfD from taking power. “The outcome needs context: Saxony-Anhalt is an AfD stronghold, not a proxy for Germany as a whole. But it sharpens a broader question across Europe. Far-right parties command roughly a quarter to a third of support in several of the region’s largest See “Merz,” A13

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Opinion BusinessMirror

Thursday, September 10, 2026 A13

For whom the bill tolls: A riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma By Atty. Laurence R. Rogero

The final chapter (Part 8)

EVEN installments have unwrapped the riddle that is your electricity bill. Answering it meant working through the mysteries beneath it—the questions law and economics keep asking of every line: What created this cost? Who can control it? Who finally pays it? Part One began with a receipt. Part Seven ended with a pile of legislative fragments. Between them, we traced the bill to fuel bought abroad, generation contracts and markets built by law, monopoly networks, electricity lost to physics and theft, old obligations, subsidies, taxes, policy charges and legislators deciding where the pesos should land. Trace any line far enough and the mystery usually resolves into a statute, a contract, a rate order, a regulator or a government decision. What remains—the enigma—is not a secret at all. It is a set of choices, express and implied, made over three decades about how the country organizes energy. Choices can be remade. The diagnosis is done. What remains is the bill of particulars: what to keep, what to fix, what to stop. A reform package, not a patchwork.

The price of yesterday

THEORY instructs, but history sends invoices. Ours has been the expensive kind; the electric bill is the receipt. The public ledger is substantial. PSALM assumed P830.7 billion in NPC obligations in 2001; by its own accounting, the figure peaked at P1.24 trillion in 2003. In an ordinary competitive business, a bad investment falls first on the firm, its shareholders and its creditors. Customers can leave. Electricity is organized differently. Captive consumers can be required by law and regulation to shoulder costs they neither created nor could control. That is how yesterday’s decisions can become tomorrow’s bill. Ratepayers began carrying Universal Charges for stranded debts and contract costs. Relief came in 2019, when the Murang Kuryente Act earmarked P208 billion from the national government’s net Malampaya share to retire those obligations and spare ratepayers further charges. PSALM had projected strandedcost charges of up to P0.5593 per kilowatt-hour over 2020–2026; the potential burden cited during the legislation reached P0.86 per kilowatt-hour. The P208 billion did not make the cost disappear. It changed the payer. Gas revenue that could have financed something else finished paying an old electricity obligation. Either way, the public paid.

Merz. . .

continued from A12

economies. How much power that translates into will depend not only on their electoral performance, but also on electoral systems and coalition arithmetic,” said Bloomberg economists Antonio Barroso and Martin Ademmer. The party’s appeal will also be tested in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, where the AfD has held a consistent lead in polls—but faces a stiffer challenge from the SPD and its popular premier, Manuela Schwesig. In the state of Berlin, the far right will contend with the ruling CDU, the Greens and Left, but has little prospect of leading. Merz’s SPD coalition partners also raised questions about the fate of the coalition’s reform agenda, including an effort to overhaul the country’s pension system. The party has especially scrutinized an unpopular initiative to abolish an early-retirement option. “Things can’t simply stay the way they are,” Labor Minister Bärbel Bas, the SPD co-leader, told reporters. “We need to discuss with the chancellor how we can dispel fear among

Other numbers tell the same story. FIT-All began collection in 2015 at P0.0406 per kilowatt-hour and stood atP0.2073 by late 2025. TransCo reported roughly P215 billion, or 97.6 percent, of FIT obligations paid. Electric cooperatives received about P18 billion in loan condonation after EPIRA, and fresh proposals continue to reach Congress. Missionary-electrification support grew from about P7.3 billion in 2015 to P24.6 billion in 2024; P30.8 billion was authorized for 2026, while NPC sought P44.2 billion for 2027. These numbers do not prove that every contract, subsidy or intervention was wrong. They prove something more basic. Every policy has a price, and government has no money of its own. Put the cost on the electric bill and ratepayers pay. Put it in the budget and taxpayers pay. Use Malampaya and the public pays through an asset it owns. Borrow, and somebody pays later. That is why history matters. Some of our tuition was useful. The 2001–2002 inter-agency review of IPP contracts examined 35, renegotiated 20 and reported roughly US$1.04 billion in present-value savings without triggering arbitration. The lesson was not that contracts can casually be rewritten. It was that scrutiny, negotiation and institutional competence can sometimes recover value without destroying credibility. Other countries offer cheaper tuition. Germany’s renewable surcharge peaked at 6.88 euro cents per kilowatt-hour in 2017. It moved new capacity toward competitive auctions and, in 2022, abolished the consumer surcharge, shifting the remaining financing burden to the federal budget. Spain accumulated an electricity tariff deficit of €25.5 billion by the end of 2012; the retroactive subsidy cuts that followed damaged investment confidence and generated years of investor-state disputes. The United Kingdom closed its FIT scheme to new applicants after successive tariff reductions. The lesson is about design, not technology. Open-ended guarantees can grow expensive, while abrupt retroactive correction can turn a rate problem into a legal and investment problem. Foreign lessons have to be translated before they are imported. Learning vicariously is cheaper; it merely requires more wisdom. people about reforms.” In Saxony-Anhalt, a state of just over 2 million that has the lowest GDP per capita of Germany’s 16 states, the AfD has discussed plans to set up a state-funded “deportation task force,” purge the ranks of civil servants and overhaul the education system to expunge it of “left-wing indoctrination.” Even as its popularity has gained, the party has coalesced around an ethno-nationalist ideology and dropped much of its more moderate language, according to Germany’s federal counterintelligence agency, the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution. In its annual report issued in June, it said an increased number of party officials have openly adopted the concept of “remigration,” or largescale expulsions. That has isolated it in Europe, even among far-right peers. France’s Marine Le Pen ended cooperation with the party in 2024 after an AfD lawmaker said in an interview that not every Nazi SS member should be considered a criminal. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, whose Brothers of Italy has embraced transatlantic ties, has kept her distance given the AfD’s closeness to Russia. Bloomberg

That history points toward the package. A patch attacks today’s unpopular charge. A package asks what produced it, who can control it, and whether changing the bill changes the economics underneath. Three disciplines should govern it: put cost and risk where they are best controlled; preserve investment that lowers future cost; and make transfers explicit.

Follow the incentive

WHERE competition can work, use it. Generation is not a natural monopoly. Making competition real requires genuine procurement, sensible risk allocation, rules against manipulation, a clear division of work between the PCC and ERC, ownership disclosure, and rules that reach beneficial control, not merely formal shareholdings. That discipline must reach WESM itself: a designed market ringed by special fiscal support, price safeguards, dispatch priorities, settlement rules and administrative interventions. Each may have a defensible purpose. Their combined effects on price discovery, dispatch, investment, competition and cost allocation require periodic scrutiny. A market that clears is not necessarily a market that disciplines. Nor can competition repeal fuel prices. Much of our fuel is imported, priced in foreign currency and moved through routes the country does not control. Reducing that exposure requires a portfolio rather than an ideological favorite: economical indigenous resources, renewables that lower total system cost, storage and flexible capacity for reliability, and transmission capable of carrying all of it. Government re-entry into generation should be judged by the same discipline. The record of state generation and risk-bearing is on file: the NPC debt and stranded obligations that helped drive EPIRA’s restructuring. Re-entry should answer a demonstrated market failure—most plainly in missionary, off-grid and underserved areas—and operate under competitive-neutrality and transparent-accounting rules. Fiscal privilege or preferential dispatch should not crowd out private investment, distort WESM or quietly rebuild contingent liabilities. Where competition cannot work, regulation must supply the discipline. Transmission and distribution are natural monopolies: no rival national grids, no competing wires entering every house. But transmission does not sit economically outside the market: connections, losses, congestion and reserve constraints affect which plants compete, which dispatch and what prices WESM produces. Distribution procurement determines

how generation costs reach captive consumers. The governing rule is simple: responsibility, controllable risk and regulated return should align. Network utilities should recover prudent investment and a return sufficient to finance reliable service. Inefficient procurement, avoidable delay, poor maintenance and excessive loss should not become immortal because customers cannot leave. Monopoly is sometimes efficient. Unaccountable monopoly never is. Rules do not enforce themselves. Sharper benchmarks, tighter deadlines and wider ERC responsibilities require regulatory independence, people, data and money. Contract benchmarks should distinguish technology, grid and load profile, draw on competitive price discovery where available, be published with their methodology and updates, and face ex-post audit. A poor benchmark merely produces faster error. Legislation must also fit the existing Codes and ERC rules. Careless definitions and impossible transitions can turn intended relief into years of rate litigation. Relief for distressed electric cooperatives should pair legitimate geographic difficulty with governance and performance reform, not turn mission into immunity.

Melting is not chipping

LOSSES bring the same logic down to the kilowatt-hour. Some electricity disappears because wires obey physics; some because people steal it. The law should not treat them alike. Technical loss should be benchmarked against efficient systems under comparable terrain, density and voltage. Non-technical loss should face harder consequences and be attacked through law enforcement and utility investment. Even when lost electricity is unrecoverable, prudent spending that prevents future loss should remain financeable. Congress should set the distributive principle; the ERC should calibrate the benchmark and transition transparently. The better question is not merely who incurred the loss. It is who could have prevented it.

Compassion has a price

SOCIAL policy requires a different discipline: visibility. Every subsidy should identify its objective, beneficiary, payer and duration. Special fiscal support deserves the same test whether it appears on the electricity bill, in the budget, on a public balance sheet or as a contingent liability. Policy-support charges deserve the same discipline: measure the result and stop collecting when the purpose ends. FIT-All illustrates why. Across suc-

cessive annual determinations, the ERC has directed an “immediate” audit of the fund. The repeated directive raises a governance question: when a surcharge persists for years, how clearly can the public see whether collections, payments and balances still match the policy’s purpose?

What government adds

GOVERNMENT should also audit the costs it creates through taxation and delay. A VAT exemption lowers the bill only if the saving reaches consumers, and tax relief should be judged beside reforms that reduce the underlying cost before the tax is imposed. Clarete’s EPDP simulation estimated that eliminating VAT would reduce prices by roughly two percent, while eliminating generation-permitting red tape would reduce them by about six percent. The exact numbers can be debated. The ordering is the point. A delayed permit becomes construction interest. A right-of-way dispute stalls a project. Legal uncertainty becomes a risk premium. A weaker peso becomes imported fuel cost. Weak enforcement becomes non-technical loss. Local taxation becomes a tariff input. All reach the bill. None can be solved by the ERC alone.

Beyond the meter

THE bill must also be read outward, into the economy. Albert O. Hirschman taught development economists to look for forward and backward linkages. Electricity’s backward linkages run through engineering, construction, equipment, finance, skilled labor and maintenance. Its forward linkages run through factories, cold storage, food processing, irrigation, digital services and every enterprise that reliable, affordable power makes possible. The cheapest kilowatt-hour at the plant gate is not automatically the choice with the greatest 20-year value. A resource that develops domestic capability, reduces import exposure and enables downstream investment may create benefits the electricity bill never records. But linkage is not a license for expensive protectionism. Permanently higher electricity prices can destroy more industry downstream than they create upstream. The test must remain empirical: does the reform lower cost, improve reliability and strengthen productive capacity at a cost the economy can justify? Electricity is both an industry and an input into almost every other industry. Its price is both an output of the economy and an input into development. Energy policy runs beyond electricity law. Lawful development of

indigenous hydrocarbons in the West Philippine Sea would affect import dependence and foreign-exchange exposure. Adopting or rejecting nuclear power after rigorous study would alter the long-run generation portfolio. Neither issue should dominate the package. Both show why electricity reform cannot stop at the ERC. A coherent package has many moving parts: make generation competition real; scrutinize WESM periodically; discipline transmission and distribution monopolies; align risk with control while protecting prudent investment; attack theft and reform distressed utilities; target subsidies and test policy charges; rationalize taxes and permitting; strengthen regulatory capacity and legal predictability; and reduce exposure to imported shocks. Some measures will lower the bill by centavos. Others will improve reliability, reduce risk or lower the odds of the next crisis. No single amendment will make Philippine electricity the cheapest in Asia. This series has argued against that mentality. EPIRA itself attempted to redesign the industry as a system. Twenty-five years have shown where that design worked, where it did not, and where the world changed around it. The next reform should begin not with whichever provision has politicians angriest this month, but with the bill itself. Take every peso. Trace it backward. Ask what produced it. If the cost is avoidable, give whoever can reduce it the incentive to do so. If it is unavoidable, decide openly who should bear it. If it is a subsidy, a tax or the price of another public policy, name the beneficiary, name the payer and count the cost. Then add everything back together. That is the difference between making electricity appear cheaper and actually making electricity cheaper. For whom does the bill toll? After eight installments, we have the answer: eventually, it tolls for all of us. The useful question is whether we can make it toll for less.

Atty. Laurence R. Rogero is an infrastructure lawyer with three decades of experience in the Philippine and international power and water sectors, advising project sponsors, lenders, and investors. He is lead independent director of a publicly listed infrastructure holding company with interests in energy and water. He is pursuing postgraduate studies in economics at Ateneo de Manila University, where he also lectures in the School of Management. He graduated magna cum laude from the UP School of Economics, earned his law degree from UP, and obtained an LL.M. with Distinction from Georgetown University as a Fulbright Fellow. The views expressed are his own and should not be attributed to any institution, organization, client, company, or other entity with which he is affiliated.

Students who use AI get worse test scores, OECD warns By Jacob Reid

TUDENTS who do not use AI chatbots for schoolwork are outperforming those who do, according to the OECD’s flagship educational report, providing some of the widest-ranging evidence yet that the technology could be hurting children’s learning. Students who say they never or almost never use AI to draft texts for writing assignments scored 509 on a science test, according to the report, compared with 481 for students using AI for that purpose every day or almost every day. The 28-point gap, adjusted for socio-economic status, corresponds to roughly a year and a half of teaching. Similar patterns appear for other uses of AI, including conducting preliminary research on a new topic and summarizing assigned reading. “In the same way that we do not become fit by watching sports but by doing sports, learning does not occur through the consumption of content, but as a productive cognitive struggle of the mind with new material,” wrote OECD Director for Education

and Skills Andreas Schleicher. He said AI should be used as a “scaffold, not a crutch,” adding: “Where technology enables or enhances that cognitive struggle, students will advance. Where technology short-circuits the productive struggle of learning, it will undercut students’ development.” The Program for International Student Assessment tests 15-yearold students in science, math and reading, and is closely watched by politicians and policymakers as one of the leading measures of national education systems. The results, released Tuesday, are based on a representative sample of over 760,000 students across 91 countries. With the previous tests conducted in 2022, it’s the first release since generative AI went mainstream. While the technology is widely seen as a way to boost productivity at work, there are growing concerns about how AI chatbots are changing education, especially the risk of “cognitive offloading,” where pupils give difficult tasks to AI rather than doing them themselves. It’s part of a broader debate about smart devices

in classrooms, with a growing number of countries considering banning phones at school. There’s relatively little concrete evidence about the impact of AI in education, although a study published in June involving 27,000 Chinese students found that using AI reduced the time pupils spent on homework and increased their scores, but led to significantly worse exam results. Last week New York City, the largest school district in the US, banned AI tools for elementary and middle school students in the upcoming school year. The head of the UK’s qualifications regulator has warned about the use of AI to cheat in assessments, especially coursework, and a report published by MIT last month said the university will need to redesign its teaching, assessment and student support, now that AI can complete most undergraduate tasks. It’s an increasingly polarized issue, as supporters argue that AI could transform education through personalized learning, especially for struggling students, as well as helping teachers to reduce time on paperwork and better understand

their pupils’ needs. The PISA report shows that AI adoption is widespread among students, with only 14 percent saying they never or almost never use AI for schoolwork. But there is a variation across countries, with the figure almost 40 percent in Japan, compared with 4 percent in Vietnam. Almostdaily use remains “relatively uncommon” at less than 20 percent. However, the report stresses that the relationship between AI use and school performance is complex and depends on how the technology is used. It contains some evidence that AI could enhance learning if used critically and in moderation. Students who use AI about once or twice a week tend to outperform peers who use it less often, as well as those who use it daily. Among pupils who say they use AI “to help me learn,” weekly users outperform all of their peers, including those who never use it. Among students who use AI daily, science scores are 13 points higher— equivalent to more than half a year of teaching—if they’re regularly asked to assess AI-generated information in their lessons. Bloomberg

Sports BusinessMirror

A14 Thursday, September 10, 2026

JB OUT, OFTANA IN; HOSTS IN CONTROL

J Avaricio grabs

CHANELLE AVARICIO finds it easier to get to the green to avoid making bogeys on Wednesday. NONIE REYES

fragile 1-shot edge in 2nd rd

HANELLE AVARICIO turned a shaky start into a brilliant second-round charge, firing a bogey-free 69 Wednesday to seize a one-stroke lead over Apple Fudolin in the ICTSI Summit Point Championship and set up a thrilling final-round scramble at the Summit Point Golf and Country Club. Avaricio, who opened with a 75 on Tuesday, stayed patient through the first 11 holes before a birdie on No. 12 ignited a late surge. She followed with another birdie on the 13th and birdied the par-five No. 16 for the second straight day, closing with a 36-33 and a two-day total of 144. “I hit more greens in regulation today compared to yesterday, so it was easier to make par today,” said Avaricio, who credited her improved iron play and putting for the turnaround. Her late burst proved decisive as overnight co-leaders Sarah Ababa and Tiffany Lee faltered down the stretch, allowing Avaricio to move alone on top after 36 holes. Ababa, who held a two-shot lead after a 71 in the opening round, suffered a costly double bogey on the 18th and settled for a 75. Lee, meanwhile, forced a three-way tie at the top with Avaricio and Ababa after playing the first 15 holes at one under for the day, only to bogey Nos. 16 and 17 and finish with a second straight 73. Both dropped to joint third at 146 with Seoyun Kim, who fought back with a 71. Fudolin emerged as Avaricio’s closest challenger after a gritty 71 put her at 143, just one stroke behind. Long in search of a breakthrough, Fudolin made an aggressive start, birdieing two of her first three holes, then steadied herself after a bogey-bogey skid from No. 9 with a birdie on No. 13 to salvage a 35-36. For the first time, Fudolin finds herself within striking distance of an elusive title.

mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph | Editor: Jun Lomibao

USTIN BROWNLEE didn’t get his doctors’ clearance and won’t be helping Gilas Pilipinas defend the men’s 5x5 gold medal at the 20th Asian Games. Nagoya Mayor Ichiro Hirosawa, meanwhile, guaranteed that no venue was affected and all early birds for the Asian Games that open next Saturday are safe and sound despite the flash floods that hit the host city the past two days. “Justin Brownlee will not join us,” Cone told the BusinessMirror from Nagoya on Wednesday. Instead, Cone said he tapped Calvin Oftana to be the 12th man for Gilas, whose members who were settling in on Wednesday in Nagoya from tuneup games in South Korea that didn’t augur well for the team. “He [Calvin Oftana] arrived this afternoon and we’re hoping he makes our practice schedule today,” said Cone, who earlier declared that he’ll be playing with only 11 men in Nagoya. “Calvin was always on the list to play, but we were uncertain of his health status,” he said. If Brownlee’s recovering from ankle and knees issues, Oftana—a member of the team that won the gold

feats—81-55 and 69-42—to South Korea’s national team just over the weekend. The Japanese hosts scheduled basketball ahead of the opening ceremony with hostitilies starting on Thursday and the Philippines opening its Pool C campaign against Bahrain at 12 noon Friday at the Aichi International Arena in Nagoya. The Philippines then face Kazakhstan at 6 p.m. on Saturday and eight-time Asian Games champion China at 12 noon on Monday.

No worries—Nagoya mayor

A CAR drives along a flooded road following heavy rain with a banner for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games in the background in Nagoya Tuesday. The Asian Games start September 19 and end on October 4. AP medal in Hangzhou three years ago— himself was out with hamstring, toe, foot and calf injuries. “He has since returned to TNT’s practice and is good to go,” Cone said. “Because of the system we are running and his previous experience in the window teams, he is a plug and

play player and will fit right in.” Cone said Gilas would contend despite Brownlee’s absence. “I think we have progressed well after our beating in Korea,” he said. “Guys are stepping it up and we are ready and we must focus on what we have.” The team took back-to-back de-

ATHLETES who’ve arrived early for the Asian Games were unharmed by extensive flooding that hit the central Japanese city of Nagoya, Mayor Ichiro Hirosawa said Wednesday. “We are not worried about the conditions of the venues and we believe there is no problem holding the Asian Games as planned,” Hirosawa told reporters. The Asian Games, an event with more

Que grabs four-stroke lead after carding solid 66

EST Cola eases way past Nxled in straight sets

NGELO QUE came out smoking from a spirited and chaotic battle in the second round on Wednesday to break away from a tightly-bunched field with a solid 66 for a four-stroke lead halfway through the ICTSI Summit Point Championship in Lipa City. At 47, the reigning Philippine Golf Tour (PGT) Order of Merit champion Que emerged from the crowded leaderboard by birdieing the first three holes at the turn, seizing solo control before leaning on a string of gutsy pars to protect his advantage. The result was a second straight six-

under card and a 12-under 132 total, putting him in prime position to chase a second PGT victory of the season after outdueling Tony Lascuña in a thrilling finish at Caliraya Springs. “Winning is a motivation for me, especially at this age,” Que said. “If you can keep winning, then that’s a good sign.” The P2.5-million championship has produced a scoring bonanza with the stellar field taking full advantage of favorable scoring conditions under winter rules. But Que faced a strong group of challengers led by Carl Corpus and cousin Aidric Chan, veteran Reymon Jaraula and first-round leader Justin Quiban.

PHILIPPINE Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio and commissioners Fritz Gaston and Walter Torres and Puerto Princesa City Sports Director Atty. Gregorio Austria pose for posterity after a successful summit. PSC PHOTO

How about Puerto Princesa City as sports capital?

UERTO Princesa City is setting its sights on becoming the Sports Capital of the Philippines, a vision strengthened by its partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and showcased during the threeday Palawan Youth and Sports Summit. PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio hailed Puerto Princesa’s sports program as a model of excellence, driven by the dynamic leadership of Mayor Lucilo Bayron and his city officials. “The sports program of Puerto Princesa City is worth emulating by other LGUs,” Gregorio said. “You are truly advanced in research, development and implementation.” “You already know the benefits

Bring on the noise! LAST Tuesday, the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) held its Season 89 presscon at Novotel and stimulated the nerve endings of the ”long-suffering,” diehard collegiate basketball fanatics. It’s going to be a very interesting and exciting season. The opening ceremony on Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena is bound to be a blockbuster. The “unkabogable” Vice Ganda and rapper-singer-songwriter Gloc-9 will headline the show that will be remembered for a long time for its uniqueness, core messages and sparkly star appeal. The basketball tournament itself will be intriguing and irresistible because there are no clear-cut, obvious front runners this time. Transitions and changes in all eight teams have erased old patterns. What was predictable has become unpredictable. The “P” word rules, and it’s called parity. Some conjectures persevere. The University of the Philippines (UP) and De La Salle University (DLSU) are still considered the teams to beat. But their lock on the championship is no longer automatic. This time the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers are being touted as a team that can crash the intimate party. The Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws are expected to rampage, making these four the favorites to enter the Final Four. But nothing’s cast in stone. Ateneo de Manila in its new era is clicking on all cylinders under Coach Louie Alas. Adamson U has lost

Cedrick Manzano but will still pull off surprises, thanks to Coach Nash Racela’s wizardry. The National University Bulldogs have lost Jake Figueroa, Steve Nash Enriquez and Jolo Manansala, but Reinhard Jumamoy will step up and lead this team. The University of the East (UE) are in “building,” not “rebuilding” mode, says Coach Chris Gavina. So they’re bound to surprise, even shock us. With UE legend Allan Caidic as team consultant, a new culture is surely rising in the East. As for me, I’m super hyped about being part of the UAAP crowd again. I feel the rest of the sports world is on mute compared to a packed UAAP arena. The electricity produced by school pride can’t be found anywhere else. I love soaking in the energy that rocks me at the cellular level. Speaking of crowds, I asked AI to characterize the different UAAP crowds per school and this is what it said: “When it comes to the sheer volume, noise, and psychological pressure of a live game, the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons arguably own the most avid, passionate, and

Corpus, 25, emerged as Que’s closest pursuer after matching Que’s 66 in spectacular fashion. Seeking a second PGT title following his breakthrough at Valley Golf last year, Corpus also used a blazing frontside finish to surge into solo second at 136. He came alive after a birdie-bogey start on the backside, birdieing the first two holes before gunning down an eagle on the par-five No. 3 and adding birdies on the next two. After a par, Corpus birdied the seventh for a sizzling 29 and a 66 and Chan stayed within striking distance at 137 after a 69.

of sports tourism to grassroots development and tourism contribution to the economy. Mayor Bayron is your No. 1 cheerleader,’’ Gregorio added. Beyond the summit halls, PSC and Puerto Princesa City leaders moved into the field to see firsthand the infrastructure that will anchor the city’s ambition. Their first stop was the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF), where a sprawling 20-hectare site donated by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology through its Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang will become a home for several sports facilities. The PSC Regional Sports Complex will rise with plans taking shape for a

intimidating crowd in the UAAP today. Defending their turf with an almost religious fervor, the UP crowd creates a uniquely overwhelming environment…The UP community completely floods venues in a sea of maroon shirts.. Their signature cheers..create a chilling, echo-chamber effect that heavily pressures opponents. The DLSU and Ateneo crowds were described as “the gold standard rivalry”—“elite, organized, and hostile in the most traditional sense.” “When the Animo crowd meets the One Big Fight contingent, the atmosphere is electric. (The) intimidation factor stems from decades of pure, unadulterated sports rivalry. The drums are deafening, the school anthems are sung with extreme pride, and a winner-take-all game between these schools routinely smashes gate attendance records.” “When UST is winning,” AI continued, “there is arguably no scarier crowd in collegiate sports. The Thomasian community is famously loyal and boasts one of the largest student populations in the country. Known as the ‘Yellow Wall,’ a packed UST crowd is fiercely vocal, bringing an intense, disruptive energy that can rattle even the most seasoned UAAP veterans.” As for the FEU crowd, “it is legendary for its relentless, heavy drum cadences. The rhythm of the FEU Cheering Squad drums is uniquely deep and driving, mimicking the charging stomp of a Tamaraw. When the crowd coordinates their standard “Let’s Go Tamaraws!” shout to that booming bass line, the acoustic weight inside the stadium creates a heavily pressurized environment for opposing teams. They also have a massive student baseline that shows out heavily during rivalry matches.”

athletes than the Summer Olympics. More than 11,000 athletes are signed up from 45 countries and regions in Asia. By comparison, about 10,700 athletes participated in the Summer Olympics in 2024 in Paris. The previous edition of the Asian Games was held three years ago in Hangzhou. Hirosawa said about 400 athletes and staff who are staying in converted shipping containers—remodeled to serve as temporary housing units for the Asian Games—were briefly evacuated to higher ground during the heavy rain. He said there were a number of leaking roofs but nothing more serious around the dozens of Games venues. Record rain fell in parts of the city on Tuesday, flooding dozens of roads and homes, and stranding pedestrians and vehicles. City bus and subway operations were temporarily suspended, the mayor said. Reports said about 3,500 people took shelter at emergency evacuation centers. Josef Ramos and AP

ANGELO QUE, 47: “Winning is a motivation for me, especially at this age. If you can keep winning, then that’s a good sign. NONIE REYES Jaraula also made a significant move, firing seven birdies against two bogeys for a 67 to join Chan and Quiban at 137 with Quiban settling for a 72 to remain tied for third at seven-under overall.

baseball diamond in partnership with the Philippine Amateur Baseball Association and its secretary-general Mike Asuncion. It will be complemented by a softball field, a football pitch and a host of multisport facilities that will serve as the backbone of the city’s regional sports hub. The PSC team was welcomed by IPPF Superintendent Col. Edgardo Mendoza Jr. and from there, the delegation proceeded to the Ramon V. Mitra Sports Complex, a vibrant arena that pulses with activity across a wide range of disciplines. Indoor athletes train in sepak takraw, boxing, tennis, badminton, table tennis, basketball and combat sports such as wushu, taekwondo and arnis.

The Adamson crowd was described as “incredibly united, family-oriented, and loud.. It behaves like a tight-knit family that rallies fiercely around its student-athletes. It’s a sleeping giant that explodes into total frenzy when their team goes on a run. Because they frequently wear the tag of the “scrappy underdog” out to defy the odds, their arena energy is fueled by pure emotion.” “NU fans bring a high-morale, tactical noise to the game. They possess one of the most mechanically synchronized pep squadrons in the league. Opposing players frequently note the intimidation value of their signature, synchronized “Barking” chant, which is deafening when thousands of fans do it in unison. When the Bulldogs are in a championship hunt, this crowd comes out in historic, record-breaking droves.” UE’s crowd is described as “gritty, fiercely loyal, and loud and defined by its raw grassroots energy. UE fans have endured long rebuilding cycles, which has forged a fanbase that is incredibly resilient and vocal. The UE crowd doesn’t rely on overly polished, heavily orchestrated stadium dynamics; their energy is pure, unfiltered vocal intensity.” Everyone loses it when they go, “Bomba UE, Igma Kadima!” Let’s hear it for those crowds!

ST Cola of Thailand saved its biggest statement for last as the visitors beat Nxled, 25-22, 25-21, 25-19, to capture the Premier Volleyball League Invitational crown before a highlyappreciative crowd on Tuesday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Papatchaya Phontham, Nannaphat Moonjakham and Nirarach Srikuta again stood at the forefront for EST Cola which became the second foreign squad to win the Invitational after Japan’s Kurashiki Ablaze defeated Creamline in 2023. The triumph came after one hour and 28 minutes for the 20-and-under team that finished fourth in its 2024 PVL Invitational debut. Phontham came away with 15 points, Moonjakham added 11 and Srikuta finished with seven as the trio combined for 33 points to underscore EST Cola’s balanced scoring. Nattharika Wasan chipped in nine points, Sasithorn Jatta had six and Natnicha Saelao contributed four points on top of 19 excellent sets as EST Cola dominated Nxled in attacks, 45-34. The power-hitting, high-flying Phontham capped her week-long heroics by becoming the first guest team Most Valuable Player. Jonah Escamillan paced Nxled with 11 points, while Myla Pablo finished with 10 and MJ Phillips and EJ Cariño added nine and six points, respectively. EST Cola dropped its openingday assignment, then swept its next four matches against some of the most established teams in the tournament. EST COLA of Thailand is the second foreign squad to win the Invitational after Japan’s Kurashiki Ablaze in 2023. PVL IMAGES

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Companies BusinessMirror

VISA MOVES TO BIGGER OFFICE AT SM PRIME FACILITY IN PASAY

M Prime Holdings Inc. on Wednesday said it signed an expansion lease with Visa Inc. to double its office footprint at the SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay as it grows its Philippine operations. Visa is relocating from approximately 4,000 square meters at Five E-com Center to a 9,000-square-meter facility at Four E-com Center, where it has established its Visa Philippines Solution Center. The new facility integrates administrative, financial and technology functions under a 24/7 operating model, while providing room to scale operations and enhance the employee experience. “Today’s workplace plays a far more strategic role in organizational performance. Large companies are increasingly looking for spaces that can bring more of their operations together while giving them the flexibility to grow over time,” Alexis Ortiga, vice president and business unit head for SM Offices, said. Visa’s expansion also reflects sustained demand from multinational companies for high-quality office space that can support

larger and increasingly integrated operations in the Philippines. “Expanding to Four E-com Center was a natural decision as we continue to grow our business and support our people,” Chari Dela Cruz, vice president, global managed services and Visa Philippines solution center site lead, said. “The E-com campus offers a strategic, well-connected location with the accessibility and amenities that make it an ideal environment for our growing team.” Four E-com Center is a LEED Gold-certified premium office development. It has three crystalline towers with an all-glass façade. Designed by global architecture firm Arquitectonica, it also features a fifth-level open-air sky garden that provides employees and guests with a refreshing outdoor amenity. Four E-com Center is part of the E-com campus directly connected to SM Mall of Asia through an all-weather bridgeway and is just a few steps from Lanson Place, a premium hotel and serviced residence with meeting and event facilities. VG Cabuag

Thursday, September 10, 2026

SE Asia brands must rethink live selling strategy—report

By Bless Aubrey Ogerio

@blessogerio

OUTHEAST Asia’s content commerce market is expanding rapidly, but brands may have to resist the temptation of simply copying more mature models, according to Singapore-based research firm Momentum Works. In its September report, Live Commerce in Southeast Asia 2026, Momentum Works said content commerce gross merchandise value (GMV) in the region is on track to reach $77.9 billion in 2026 as livestreaming, short videos and content-driven affiliate sales become a larger part of ecommerce. Combined content commerce GMV across Shopee, TikTok Shop and Lazada reached $49.7 billion in 2025, up 98 percent year-on-year. Momentum Works estimated that $33.8 billion was transacted in the

first half of 2026, putting the market on track for 57-percent growth for the full year. Content commerce accounted for 37 percent of Southeast Asia’s platform ecommerce GMV in the first half, up from 20 percent in 2024. The Philippines is among the region’s major ecommerce markets tracked by Momentum Works, alongside Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and Singapore. China remains the region’s most developed live-commerce ecosystem and offers lessons in automa-

tion, artificial intelligence and data-driven operations, the firm said. However, Momentum Works warned that China’s model cannot simply be transplanted across Southeast Asia. “China is a map, not a blueprint for Southeast Asia,” the report said. “Local creator dynamics, consumer behavior and channel economics still require brands to adapt the model market by market.”

‘Brandformance’

LIVE commerce has moved from an experimental channel to a regular part of ecommerce for many brands and sellers. The firm, however, expects the unusually attractive returns available today to become harder to sustain as more brands, sellers and creators develop similar capabilities. “Live is the easiest format to commit to,” the report said, because its output is visible and conversion can be tracked immediately. That convenience, however, can encourage brands to overinvest in livestreaming while underfunding

SEC halts Nego Food Solution operations

Ayala Group, EJAP renew tieup for biz journ awards

HE Ayala Group has renewed its partnership with the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines (EJAP) for the 35th EJAP Business Journalism Awards, continuing a collaboration that has supported excellence in business journalism for more than two decades. The partnership was formalized during a signing ceremony on September 3, led by EJAP President Ted Cordero and Vice President for External Lorenz Marasigan, and Ayala Corporation Chief Social Infrastructure Officer Paolo Borromeo. Communications leaders from across the Ayala Group attended the ceremony alongside EJAP’s 2026 Officers and Board of Directors. The 35th EJAP Business Journalism Awards is supported by Ayala Corp., Ayala Land, BPI, Globe Telecom, ACEN, AC Health, AC Logistics, ACMobility, ACX, Integ rated Micro -Electronics Inc., Mynt, iPeople, and Ayala Foundation. “The broad participation reflects the Group’s continuing support for the awards and its recognition of the important role of business journalism in helping the public better understand the forces shaping the economy and their daily lives,” Ayala said. The EJAP Awards have become one of the country’s leading recognition programs for economic and business journalism, honoring work that brings greater clarity and insight to important economic and business matters. By recognizing excellence in the profession, the awards also help uphold the value of credible, insightful, and responsible reporting. The 35th EJAP Business Journalism Awards will recognize outstanding work by journalists covering business, the economy, finance, and related fields. The awards night is scheduled for November 6.

short-video, affiliate and review content that often creates demand before a purchase. “A single purchase rarely runs through a single channel,” Momentum Works said, adding that winning in content commerce requires working across different formats “as a portfolio rather than in isolation.” As competition intensifies and one-off conversions become more expensive, “running live well is no longer enough to stay ahead,” the firm said. Momentum Works expects current returns to normalize as more brands enter the channel. The longer-term challenge, it said, is combining brand building with conversion, often described as “brandformance.” Artificial intelligence is also c h a n g i n g t he e conom ic s of livestreaming. In selected cases, AI live operations cost around 20 to 25 percent of a comparable human operation while achieving about 80 percent of human livestream GMV per hour on average, according to the report.

By VG Cabuag @villygc

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

DoubleDragon’s Chairman Edgar Injap Sia (right) and DD Co-Chairman Tony Tan Caktiong at the Hotel101-Madrid Grand Opening on September 8, 2026. The inaugural Formula1 Madrid Grand Prix is happening this weekend in Madrid, Spain where the 680-room Hotel101-Madrid sits directly next to Turn 12 La Monumental of the Madrid Formula1 track, and in close proximity to Madrid International Airport, IFEMA and the famous Ciudad Real Madrid. Hotel101-Madrid is the perfected global prototype of Hotel101 as it expands globally with the vision of 1 million rooms in 100 countries worldwide. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

New-energy vehicles lift BYD sales B

YD Cars Philippines said it sold 28,399 units of vehicles in January to August, surpassing its full-year 2025 total, on brisk demand for its new-energy vehicles (NEVs). The Chinese automaker said its January to August sales was nearly double the number of vehicles it sold in the same period last year. The 8-month figure was also higher than the 26,122 units it sold for the entire 2025. BYD closed August with 4,682 units sold, adding to a year marked by several strong monthly performances, including a record 5,730 units in April. April sales were up 258 percent from the same month in 2025.

The company attributed much of its growth to the demand for NEVs, particularly models using its plug-in hybrid DM-i technology. From January to August, BYD sold 22,555 DM-i vehicles, up 95 percent from 11,542 units during the same period last year. The Sealion 6 DM-i was the company’s best-selling model, with 7,759 units sold, accounting for 27 percent of BYD’s total sales during the period. Meanwhile, the eMAX 9 DM-i added 2,512 units to the company’s year-to-date sales. Fully electric models also recorded triple-digit growth. Battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales reached 5,844 units in the first eight months, more than double the 2,720 units sold in

the same period last year. The eMAX 7 led BYD’s BEV lineup with 1,975 units sold, representing 34 percent of its total BEV sales for the period. Bob Palanca, managing director of BYD Cars Philippines, said the company’s sales performance reflects growing consumer acceptance of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. “The market’s response to our best-selling models, like the BYD Sealion 6 DM-i, the eMAX 9 DM-i and the eMAX 7 BEV, and our achievement of crossing our full-year 2025 sales is proof that electric vehicles have entered the mainstream in the Philippines,” Palanca said. He said the company would con-

tinue expanding its electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle offerings as adoption grows. “Filipino consumers are choosing BYD because our vehicles deliver what matters most: innovation, practicality, reliability, and lower ownership costs without compromise,” Palanca said. BYD’s Philippine dealership network has also expanded alongside its sales, reaching 81 dealerships nationwide, according to the company. The country’s performance comes as BYD continues to post strong global NEV sales. The automaker reported 440,293 NEVs sold worldwide in August. BYD Cars Philippines is a subsidiary of ACMobility. Bless Aubrey Ogerio

HE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued a cease-and-desist order against Nego Food Solution Corp. for its investment solicitation, which the agency finds illegal. The order covers the company, which owns Japanese restaurant chain Takoyadon, and individuals, such as Noel B. Andres, a certain Marko/Mark Marquez and Celyn/ Jocelyn Manzanero. The agency said it received reports that the company has entered into various co-ownership agreement with several individuals to become a part owner of the company, with Nego Food having full and complete management and control over the operations of the business. The co-owner will pay a onetime non-refundable fee of P99,000, which will be for SMNV Project Food Corp., whose money will be used by Nego Food for restaurant operations. There’s also a management operations fee of 3 percent of the gross sales per month basis, which will form part of SMNV Project’s operational expense and a systemwide and marketing fee of 4 percent of the gross sales per month. The said co-owners will divide net profits of the firm and also share the net loss of Nego Food. The SEC said the company was selling securities since the public is required to pay a total of P849,000. It noted there is also common enterprise as investors’ monies were pooled. “Third, there was clearly an expectation of profits on the part of its investors and were it not for the profit, investors would not part their money. Lastly, the profits are derived primarily from the efforts of others.” The SEC said the investors had no hand in the management of Nego Food and earned profits by merely investing in said entity.

Thursday, September 10, 2026

Companies BusinessMirror

SunAsia Energy, Gunkul to build floating solar project By Lenie Lectura @llectura

UNKUL Engineering has partnered with SunAsia Energy Inc. for the con-

struction of the largest floating solar project in the region which costs over $1 billion. The project is envisioned to reach approximately one gigawatt (GW) in installed capacity. “This milestone comes at a defining moment as the Philippines hosts the Asean Energy Ministers’ Meeting in October this year. The partnership also ref lects the joint vision of the Philippines and Thailand to forge meaningful collaboration, drive innovation, and create an impact that extends well beyond our borders,” said SunAsia Energy CEO and President Tetchi Capellan. Gunkul is a listed energy and infrastructure company with a presence in renewable energy (RE),

engineering, procurement and construction (EPC), and electrical equipment. Listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand since 2010, Gunkul has built a diversified portfolio of RE assets and engineering capabilities, making it an integrated player in Asia’s evolving clean energy landscape. Before Gunkul’s entry, Blueleaf Energy Philippines, a Macquarie Capital portfolio company, had been involved in the project since

MUTUAL FUNDS

2021, providing development and funding support. Blueleaf Energy Philippines worked alongside project partners to advance one of the Philippines’s most significant renewable energy initiatives. “SunAsia is working with floating solar experts across the region, drawing on a century of engineering knowledge and experience to design for the future while anticipating risks today and building resilience for the years ahead,” SunAsia Energy Inc. Vice President Karlo Abril said. SunAsia has secured the largest number of floating solar projects awarded in the fourth round of GEA, totaling 13 projects with a combined capacity of 949 megawatts. These projects represent a major milestone in advancing renewable energy in the Philippines, reducing dependence on fossil fuels while promoting sustainable growth for communities and businesses alike.

September 9, 2026

NAV ONE YEARTHREE YEAR FIVE YEAR Y-T-D PER SHARE RETURN* RETURN STOCK FUNDS PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES (SHARES) ALFM GROWTH FUND, INC. -A212.91 -1.04% 2.01% -0.97% -2.21% -0.55% ATRAM ALPHA OPPORTUNITY FUND, INC. -A 2.3879 14.22% 17.62% 9.15% 5.51% 10.47% ATRAM PHILIPPINE EQUITY OPPORTUNITY FUND, INC. -A 2.8612 -1.02% 0.93% -1.39% -3.92%0.36% CLIMBS SHARE CAPITAL EQUITY INVESTMENT FUND CORP. -A 0.7606 0.8% 4.39% 0.56% N.A3.6% FIRST METRO CONSUMER FUND, INC. -A 0.5088 -13.01% -7.5% -7.84% N.A -8.51% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN EQUITY FUND, INC. -A 4.3492 -3.68% -0.86% -2.69% -2.08% -0.54% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN PHILIPPINE INDEX FUND, INC. -A 0.6502 -0.28% -0.7% -2.75% N.A1.18% MBG EQUITY INVESTMENT FUND, INC. -A 71.94 -16.89% -6.03% -6.25% N.A -19.58% PAMI EQUITY INDEX FUND, INC. -A 42.5377 2.05% 1.15% -1.44% -1.85% 2.85% PHILAM STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND, INC. -A 446.44 -1.27% 1.63% -1.47% -2.07% -0.69% PHILEQUITY DIVIDEND YIELD FUND, INC. -A 1.6055 5.74% 11.73% 5.84% 2.25% 2.83% PHILEQUITY FUND, INC. -A36.2727 5.17% 3.9% 0.85% -0.16% 5.35% PHILEQUITY MSCI PHILIPPINE INDEX FUND, INC. -A 0.9688 10.38% 5.95% 1.61% N.A 9.14% PHILEQUITY PSE INDEX FUND, INC. -A 4.6063 2.82% 2.15% -0.41% -0.97% 3.06% PHILIPPINE STOCK INDEX FUND CORP. -A 757.84 2.52% 1.8% -0.72% -1.17% 3.11% SOLDIVO STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND, INC. -A 0.7185 3.13% 3.34% 0.2% -2.34% 2.34% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY PHILIPPINE EQUITY FUND, INC. -A 3.1611 -5.78% -0.59% -2.65% -2.68%-1.51% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY PHILIPPINE STOCK INDEX FUND, INC. -A 0.8493 2.35% 1.38% -1.09% -1.44%3.07% UNITED FUND, INC. -A3.708312.01% 7.33% 2.39% 0.78% 12.8% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES (UNITS) COL EQUITY INDEX UNITIZED MUTUAL FUND, INC. -A 1.0644 2.67% 1.83% N.A N.A 3.05% COL STRATEGIC GROWTH EQUITY UNITIZED MUTUAL FUND, INC. -A 1.0578 0.45% N.A N.A N.A 1.37% PHILEQUITY ALPHA ONE FUND, INC. -A 0.9226 -2.94% -2.04% -3.46% N.A -2.3% PHILIPPINE STOCK INDEX FUND CORP. -A 914.39 2.52% 1.59% N.A N.A 3.15% EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (SHARES) FIRST METRO PHIL. EQUITY EXCHANGE TRADED FUND, INC. -A,C 103.4177 2.83% 2.02% -0.4% -0.76% 3.41% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES (SHARES) ATRAM ASIAPLUS EQUITY FUND, INC. -B $1.2827 34.22% 15.7% 0.95% 3.35% 25.2% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY WORLD VOYAGER FUND, INC. -A $2.4753 17.74% 16.16% 5.83% 8.84% 11.28% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES (UNITS) N.A N.A N.A N.A PHILEQUITY GLOBAL FUND, INC. -A,2 1.0759 N.A BALANCED FUNDS PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES (SHARES) ATRAM PHILIPPINE BALANCED FUND, INC. -A 2.1995 2.61% 1.29% -0.18% -0.7% 2.77% ATRAM UNICAPITAL DIVERSIFIED GROWTH FUND, INC. -A 1.7324 8.35% 6.04% 0.57% -0.41%5.87% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN BALANCED FUND, INC. -A 2.5176 0.91% 1.1% -0.87% -0.42%2.26% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN F.O.C.C.U.S. DYNAMIC FUND, INC. -A 0.2313 -0.3% 6.93% 3.63% N.A-0.26% NCM MUTUAL FUND OF THE PHILS., INC. -A,1 1.9989 3.03% 1.31% 0.32% 0.46% -0.18% PAMI HORIZON FUND, INC. -A3.7584 1.09% 3.27% 0.27% -0.16% -0.83% PHILAM FUND, INC. -A15.8792-1.18% 1.96% -0.88% -0.74% -0.82% SOLIDARITAS FUND, INC. -A2.1168 1.13% 2.5% 0.45% 0.05% 0.79% SUN LIFE OF CANADA PROSPERITY BALANCED FUND, INC. -A 3.409 -2.35% 1.26% -0.93% -1.1%-0.42% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DYNAMIC FUND, INC. -A 0.8955 -3.11% 1.11% -0.13% -0.87% -1.67% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES (UNITS) BPI WEALTH BUILDER MULTI-ASSET MUTUAL FUND, INC. -A,3 10.78 N.A N.A N.A N.A N.A SUN LIFE PROSPERITY ACHIEVER FUND 2028, INC. -A 0.9762 0.51% 2.09% -0.28% N.A -0.27% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY ACHIEVER FUND 2038, INC. -A 0.8252 -2.54% 0.51% -1.95% N.A -1.97% -3.03% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY ACHIEVER FUND 2048, INC. -A 0.7929 -0.04% -2.47% N.A -2.26% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES (SHARES) COCOLIFE DOLLAR FUND BUILDER, INC. -A $0.03318 -0.96% 1.04% -2.83% -0.85% -3.27% PAMI ASIA BALANCED FUND, INC. -B $1.1683 -1.29% 9.8% 0.89% 2.08% -3.45% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DOLLAR ADVANTAGE FUND, INC. -A $5.7128 11.21% 11.93% 3.31% 5.81%7.02% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DOLLAR WELLSPRING FUND, INC. -A $1.2053 3.87% 6.81% 0.15% 2.25%1.85% BOND FUNDS PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES (SHARES) ALFM PESO BOND FUND, INC. -A 424.88 2.4% 3.25% 2.62% 2.52% 1.16% ATRAM CORPORATE BOND FUND, INC. -A 1.9886 2.3% 1.3% 0.61% 0.43% 1.54% COCOLIFE FIXED INCOME FUND, INC. -A 3.6102 1.56% 3.04% 2.19% 3.2% 0.29% EKKLESIA MUTUAL FUND, INC. -A 2.4442 0.59% 3.06% 1.55% 1.43% -0.34% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN FIXED INCOME FUND, INC. -A 2.5095 -1.7% 1.28% 0.55% 1.12%-2.32% PHILAM BOND FUND, INC. -A4.5412 -0.54% 2.76% 0.26% 0.73% -1.49% PHILAM MANAGED INCOME FUND, INC. -A 1.545 2.95% 4.59% 3.2% 2.95% 1.64% PHILEQUITY PESO BOND FUND, INC. -A 4.3319 1.3% 3% 1.67% 1.95% 0.44% SOLDIVO BOND FUND, INC. -A1.1306 1.99% 2.89% 1.71% 1.67% 0.9% SUN LIFE OF CANADA PROSPERITY BOND FUND, INC. -A 3.4509 -2.33% 2.26% 1.4% 1.95% -2.53% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY GS FUND, INC. -A 1.83 -2.2% 1.89% 0.87% 1.36% -2.89% CORPORATE DEBT VEHICLE (UNITS) ATRAM UNITIZED CORPORATE DEBT FUND 2 -A,5 1.0129 N.A N.A N.A N.A N.A PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES (SHARES) ALFM DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. -A $533.03 1.78% 2.86% 1.77% 1.93% 0.75% ALFM EURO BOND FUND, INC. -A Є223.09 0.09% 1.83% 0.22% 0.51% -0.31% ATRAM TOTAL RETURN DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. -B $1.0547 -2.31% 0.36% -2.71% -0.66% -1.89% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. -A $0.0258 -2.27% 2.02% -0.31% 0.24%-2.64% PAMI GLOBAL BOND FUND, INC. -B $1.0482 -1.54% 7.78% -0.08% -0.62% -1.11% PHILAM DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. -A $2.4243 -1.33% 3.14% -0.85% 0.52% -2.25% PHILEQUITY DOLLAR INCOME FUND, INC. -A $0.0633139 -1.13% 1.47% 0.06% 1.08% -1.76% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DOLLAR ABUNDANCE FUND, INC. -A $2.8632 -1.91% 2.2% -2.21% -0.75%-2.37% MONEY MARKET FUNDS PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES (SHARES) AIB MONEY MARKET MUTUAL FUND, INC. -A 1.1875 2.72% N.A N.A N.A 1.81% ALFM MONEY MARKET FUND, INC. -A 152.87 4.15% 4.11% 3.19% 2.87% 2.69% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN MONEY MARKET FUND, INC. -A 1.2253 3.45% 3.78% 3.04% N.A2.3% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY PESO STARTER FUND, INC. -A 1.5161 3.57% 3.6% 2.98% 2.77% 2.34% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES (UNITS) ALFM MONEY MARKET FUND, INC. -A 117.12 4.12% 4.31% N.A N.A 2.78% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES (SHARES) SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DOLLAR STARTER FUND, INC. -A $1.1957 2.5% 3.31% 2.47% N.A 1.65% FEEDER FUNDS PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES (UNITS) ALFM GLOBAL MULTI-ASSET INCOME FUND, INC. -A 48.4494 8.84% 4.34% N.A N.A 5.07% MBG ASIA FRONTIER FEEDER UMF, INC. -B,4 1.8644 N.A N.A N.A N.A N.A SUN LIFE PROSPERITY WORLD EQUITY INDEX FEEDER FUND, INC. -A 2.6015 33% 22.73% 13.95% N.A19.88% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY WORLD INCOME FUND, INC. -A 1.2085 13.7% 6.76% N.A N.A 8.32% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES (UNITS)

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PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

Net Foreign Stocks Bid Ask Open High Low Close Volume Value Trade (Peso) Buy (Sell) FINANCIALS

ASIA UNITED BDO UNIBANK BANK COMMERCE BANK PH ISLANDS CHINABANK EAST WEST BANK METROBANK PB BANK PBCOM PHIL NATL BANK PSBANK PHILTRUST RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK BRIGHT KINDLE COL FINANCIAL FIRST ABACUS FERRONOUX HLDG MEDCO HLDG MANULIFE NTL REINSURANCE PHIL STOCK EXCH SUN LIFE VANTAGE

53 118.8 10.56 104 53.3 10.06 64.7 6.88 14.78 76.5 51.25 88.55 22.85 64 22.95 0.495 1.39 0.5 4.01 0.108 2,602 1.5 212.6 4,860 1.3

53.05 119.1 10.78 103.9 52.9 10.14 64.5 6.92 14.78 76.5 52.3 88.55 22.9 64 23.2 0.5 1.39 0.5 4.18 0.118 2,654 1.42 210 4,860 1.21

ACEN CORP 2.58 2.6 2.69 1.19 1.2 1.15 ALSONS CONS ALTERNERGY HLDG 0.74 0.73 0.74 45 45.4 45.4 ABOITIZ POWER 1.13 1.16 1.15 RASLAG 0.107 0.109 0.109 BASIC ENERGY CITICORE RE 4.88 4.85 4.88 26 26.1 26.15 FIRST GEN 98.5 99 99.75 FIRST PHIL HLDG MERALCO 485.4 485 479.8 MANILA WATER 36.1 36.2 35.7 18.62 18.68 MAYNILAD 18.66 2.27 2.26 PETRON 2.3 PETROENERGY 4.4 4.3 4.2 15.28 15.2 15.2 PRYCE CORP 9.71 9.74 9.7 REPOWER ENERGY 17.7 17.9 17.8 SEMIRARA MINING SYNERGY GRID 24.7 24.8 25.55 7.9 8 8.12 SHELL PILIPINAS 9.64 9.65 9.6 SPC POWER SP NEW ENERGY 1.19 1.2 1.21 TOP LINE 1.68 1.69 1.7 2.81 2.94 2.83 AXELUM 0.3 0.32 0.3 BALAI FRUITAS CENTURY FOOD 31.7 31.8 31.9 DEL MONTE 3.7 3.65 3.67 3.49 3.53 3.54 DNL INDUS EMPERADOR 15.36 15.3 15.28 SMC FOODANDBEV 46.35 46.5 46.6 0.6 0.62 FIGARO GROUP 0.62 0.28 0.295 0.295 ALLIANCE SELECT FRUITAS HLDG 0.65 0.63 0.64 GINEBRA 232 231.4 232 152.9 153 151.9 JOLLIBEE 1.85 1.86 1.88 KEEPERS HLDG LIBERTY FLOUR 21.05 21.95 22 2.1 2.12 2.1 MAXS GROUP 0.07 0.074 0.07 MG HLDG MONDE NISSIN 6.86 6.9 6.85 SHAKEYS PIZZA 5.56 5.64 5.48 2.5 2.58 2.61 ROXAS AND CO 5.25 5.26 5.26 RFM CORP SWIFT FOODS 0.055 0.054 0.055 58.7 58.75 58.9 UNIV ROBINA 0.51 0.52 VITARICH 0.52 VICTORIAS 1.91 2 1.99 ATN HLDG A 0.41 0.415 0.415 0.41 0.415 0.415 ATN HLDG B 54.05 58.05 CONCRETE A 58.05 CONCRETE B 59.95 54.05 59.95 1.42 1.43 1.31 CONCREAT HLDG 1.88 1.9 1.91 EEI CORP 5.15 5.2 MEGAWIDE 5.16 PHINMA 14.88 14.02 14.02 11.2 10.2 12.76 SUPERCITY 1.9 1.92 CROWN ASIA 1.92 EUROMED 1.1 1.15 1.16 5.25 5.1 5.24 MABUHAY VINYL 10.72 10.68 11.14 CONCEPCION 0.156 0.159 0.159 GREENERGY INTEGRATED MICR 8.41 8.45 8.2 IONICS 2.85 2.83 2.84 7.04 7.27 PANASONIC 7.28 CIRTEK HLDG 1.53 1.54 1.54 STENIEL 2.05 2 2

53.05 120.1 10.8 104.5 53.4 10.14 64.9 6.92 14.78 77 52.3 88.55 22.9 64.5 23.2 0.5 1.4 0.5 4.21 0.118 2,654 1.53 212.8 4,860 1.45

52.9 118.8 10.6 102.9 52.9 10.08 64.4 6.9 14.78 75.6 51.95 88.55 22.85 63.75 22.9 0.5 1.39 0.5 4.15 0.11 2,654 1.42 210 4,860 1.21

53 118.9 10.6 104 53.3 10.1 64.7 6.9 14.78 76.65 52 88.55 22.85 64.2 22.95 0.5 1.4 0.5 4.15 0.11 2,654 1.5 212.6 4,860 1.3

57,290 5,254,990 17,100 4,552,000 256,560 460,000 1,769,920 52,100 5,000 192,270 440 10 1,600 69,560 82,600 9,000 139,000 1,000 82,000 70,000 5 2,204,000 3,930 845 20,666,000

3,036,239 629,622,087 181,376 473,630,732 13,657,002 4,656,334 114,461,634 359,986 73,900 14,688,552 22,907 886 36,635 4,452,963 1,904,275 4,500 194,560 500 341,160 8,010 13,270 3,268,010 832,942 4,106,700 27,912,900

-324,786 80,469,046 7,046,412 1,606,519 -43,034 -9,840,027 -348,222 73,900 4,132,355 -2,858,043 -793,155 16,840 -169,590 735,144 1,044,900 17,630

2.69 1.21 0.74 45.6 1.17 0.11 4.88 26.5 99.75 487.8 36.35 18.7 2.3 4.4 15.28 9.74 18.14 26.15 8.12 9.66 1.22 1.75 2.94 0.3 32 3.7 3.54 15.36 46.7 0.62 0.3 0.65 232 153.4 1.88 22.45 2.1 0.07 6.95 5.65 2.61 5.28 0.055 58.95 0.52 1.99 0.415 0.415 58.05 59.95 1.45 1.91 5.2 14.1 10.2 1.93 1.16 5.25 11.14 0.162 8.69 2.92 7.27 1.56 2

2.57 1.11 0.73 45 1.13 0.105 4.88 25.75 98.5 479 35.45 18.5 2.26 4.2 15.2 9.66 17.62 24.55 7.8 9.6 1.18 1.69 2.8 0.3 31.5 3.67 3.48 15.26 46.3 0.6 0.26 0.63 230 150.5 1.83 21.05 2.1 0.07 6.82 5.48 2.5 5.25 0.054 58.5 0.52 1.9 0.41 0.415 58.05 59.95 1.31 1.91 5.12 14 10.2 1.9 1.1 5.24 10.6 0.155 8.08 2.81 7.19 1.43 2

2.58 1.2 0.74 45 1.16 0.109 4.88 26 98.5 485 36.1 18.66 2.3 4.4 15.28 9.74 17.7 24.7 8 9.65 1.2 1.69 2.81 0.3 31.7 3.7 3.49 15.3 46.5 0.6 0.28 0.64 232 152.9 1.86 21.05 2.1 0.07 6.86 5.64 2.5 5.26 0.054 58.7 0.52 1.9 0.41 0.415 58.05 59.95 1.42 1.91 5.16 14.1 10.2 1.9 1.15 5.25 11.14 0.156 8.45 2.85 7.27 1.53 2

13,246,000 15,394,000 28,000 400,000 552,000 6,430,000 21,000 896,500 95,470 163,300 453,400 941,900 344,000 774,000 1,500 2,300 1,151,900 3,179,700 655,200 15,800 26,804,000 654,000 2,346,000 10,000 451,800 31,000 2,409,000 198,300 124,000 1,467,000 760,000 1,483,000 115,120 340,330 619,000 1,500 40,000 30,000 705,100 14,000 62,000 439,100 40,000 586,920 1,000 104,000 330,000 750,000 10 20 6,555,000 1,000 966,300 11,800 100 118,000 15,000 3,000 338,200 3,130,000 9,980,100 1,620,000 2,700 7,042,000 3,000

34,474,580 18,105,550 20,710 18,080,170 627,290 687,240 102,480 23,302,015 9,408,758 79,091,490 16,324,140 17,494,658 788,780 3,298,310 22,824 22,330 20,611,406 79,451,005 5,210,873 151,799 32,101,520 1,111,350 6,608,340 3,000 14,264,455 114,150 8,431,820 3,033,682 5,764,785 882,170 212,850 950,740 26,698,258 51,902,621 1,144,420 32,140 84,000 2,100 4,861,193 78,876 156,600 2,310,550 2,170 34,453,903 520 199,310 136,800 311,250 581 1,199 9,175,810 1,910 4,976,533 166,050 1,020 225,550 16,810 15,732 3,653,482 487,530 84,247,915 4,619,620 19,621 10,645,290 6,000

-10,614,510 2,466,740 3,183,610 21,850 3,110,510 -2,908,499 38,242,320 2,614,835 3,946,038 -4,640 18,240 -5,820 1,724,468 -20,132,235 -3,150,943 965 -12,145,990 -4,075,700 -7,793,325 33,310 542,530 -2,617,554 -4,074,135 -238,230 2,800 -8,960 -1,620,850 4,868,011 -484,060 -105 1,056,660 -1,641,049 -8,569,854 161,500 563,710 68,258 -12,600 2,958 91,410 15,694,862 364,410 -461,090 -

HOLDING & FRIMS

ABACORE CAPITAL 0.325 0.33 0.33 0.335 0.325 0.335 1,430,000 471,850 61 61.05 60.4 62.5 59.85 61.05 703,440 42,718,723 14,895,825 ASIABEST GROUP AYALA CORP 491.2 491.4 510 510 488.6 491.4 669,010 329,843,620 -295,118,672 ABOITIZ EQUITY 36.55 36.6 36.75 37.2 36.55 36.6 384,400 14,086,750 168,015 8.98 8.97 8.94 8.98 1,018,500 9,141,296 -2,409,294 ALLIANCE GLOBAL 8.99 8.99 16.78 17.24 17.4 17.24 17.4 63,200 1,094,410 582,270 ANSCOR 17.24 ANGLO PHIL HLDG 1.52 1.53 1.46 1.57 1.42 1.52 5,611,000 8,490,440 -221,370 COSCO CAPITAL 7.88 8 7.85 7.88 7.76 7.88 308,200 2,423,165 1,771,778 7.97 7.99 7.89 8.02 7.86 7.97 3,506,500 27,843,463 1,267,227 DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV 3.69 3.62 3.61 3.62 3.61 3.61 24,000 86,680 477.2 479 486 488 476.6 479 77,690 37,239,404 -15,448,388 GT CAPITAL 4.8 4.99 4.97 4.99 4.97 4.99 8,000 39,840 HOUSE OF INV 20.05 20.5 20.05 20.05 713,600 14,364,380 -287,465 JG SUMMIT 20.5 20.5 LODESTAR 0.37 0.37 0.345 0.37 0.37 0.37 10,000 3,700 5.38 5.47 5.5 5.5 5.35 5.38 367,700 1,973,039 222,875 LOPEZ HLDG 14.96 14.98 15 15 14.94 14.98 1,518,700 22,751,444 4,465,040 LT GROUP 0.147 0.154 0.168 0.168 0.144 0.145 140,000 21,620 MABUHAY HLDG PACIFICA HLDG 0.86 0.88 0.85 0.85 0.85 0.85 5,000 4,250 1.04 1.13 1.13 1.13 5,000 5,650 1.13 1.13 PRIME MEDIA 3.01 3.14 3.13 3.13 3.13 3.13 3,000 9,390 REPUBLIC GLASS SOLID GROUP 1.21 1.21 1.17 1.2 1.16 1.21 201,000 242,410 -55,200 SM INVESTMENTS 553.5 554.5 558 558.5 553 554.5 276,480 153,575,320 -82,026,785 61.95 62 62.1 62.4 61.8 61.95 19,490 1,207,962 -151,903 SAN MIGUEL CORP 51.5 54.45 54.5 54.5 52.45 52.45 470 24,672 TOP FRONTIER PROPERTY ARTHALAND CORP 0.44 0.465 0.465 0.465 0.465 0.465 500,000 232,500 14.74 14.78 14.94 15.06 14.74 14.74 13,781,800 204,051,370 -93,811,354 AYALA LAND AYALA LAND LOG 1.21 1.22 1.16 1.22 1.12 1.21 2,206,000 2,628,100 1,397,330 ALTUS PROP 12.5 12.5 12.12 12.46 12.46 12.5 1,200 14,964 -11,214 37.25 37.3 37.15 37.4 36.8 37.3 781,700 29,070,385 11,662,360 AREIT RT 0.77 0.8 0.74 0.82 533,000 431,800 -32,400 A BROWN 0.82 0.82 CITYLAND DEVT 0.59 0.61 0.58 0.58 0.58 0.58 5,000 2,900 2.01 2.03 2.05 2.06 2 2.03 1,866,000 3,743,510 28,130 CEB LANDMASTERS 0.63 0.64 0.62 0.64 1,746,000 1,105,650 -640 CENTURY PROP 0.64 0.64 CITICORE RT 3.19 3.2 3.2 3.24 3.19 3.2 2,030,000 6,501,500 -2,376,030 DOUBLEDRAGON 11.88 11.86 11.98 11.98 11.84 11.86 132,900 1,580,324 624,464 1.03 1.04 1.03 1.03 1,584,000 1,641,670 4,120 DDMP RT 1.04 1.04 4.8 4.94 4.88 4.88 4.85 4.85 10,000 48,620 -24,370 DM WENCESLAO EVERWOODS 0.025 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 0.026 5,000,000 130,000 0.099 0.101 0.099 0.099 0.098 0.099 500,000 49,120 EMPIRE EAST 2.87 2.9 2.89 2.9 2.86 2.9 816,000 2,341,600 2,870 FILINVEST RT 0.68 0.69 0.69 0.69 0.68 0.68 1,059,000 730,360 132,460 FILINVEST LAND GLOBAL ESTATE 0.61 0.62 0.61 0.61 0.61 0.61 192,000 117,120 2.34 2.53 2.51 2.51 2.51 2.51 1,000 2,510 KEPPEL PROP 2.21 2.22 2.24 2.19 2.21 5,268,000 11,680,020 -1,832,130 MEGAWORLD 2.25 0.71 0.71 MRC ALLIED 0.7 0.7 0.69 0.71 7,722,000 5,406,080 56,000 MREIT RT 13.86 13.9 13.82 13.94 13.82 13.9 732,500 10,180,216 5,760,450 0.17 0.18 0.173 0.18 0.17 0.18 1,180,000 202,330 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.39 0.405 0.42 0.42 0.405 0.405 120,000 50,250 PHIL ESTATES PREMIERE RT 1.02 1.03 1.03 1.04 1.01 1.02 101,000 102,940 12,120 PRIMEX CORP 1.08 1.08 1 1 1 1.08 12,000 12,240 6.75 6.82 6.75 6.84 6.75 6.75 3,460,900 23,460,543 -4,163,091 RL COMM RT ROBINSONS LAND 17.12 17.2 17.3 17.3 16.98 17.2 823,300 14,074,920 2,761,808 ROCKWELL 2.93 2.99 2.96 2.99 2.92 2.93 725,000 2,129,310 -253,880 3.18 3.24 3.2 3.26 3.15 3.2 39,000 124,430 -10,550 SHANG PROP 1.85 1.87 1.87 1.87 1.87 1.87 3,000 5,610 STA LUCIA LAND SM PRIME HLDG 18 18.1 18.36 18.36 17.94 18.1 4,278,500 77,314,864 -12,071,674 SUNTRUST RESORT 0.41 0.41 0.405 0.41 0.41 0.41 140,000 57,400 SERVICES ABS CBN 3.61 3.64 3.65 3.65 3.61 3.64 71,000 258,310 3.98 4 3.98 4 206,000 823,840 GMA NETWORK 4 4 MLA BRDCASTING 5.25 5.5 5.25 5.25 5.25 5.25 1,000 5,250 0.66 0.67 0.67 0.68 0.66 0.66 6,808,000 4,544,020 429,140 DITO CME HLDG 1,628 1,632 1,590 1,645 1,590 1,632 63,480 103,617,930 9,326,850 GLOBE TELECOM 1,136 1,135 1,131 1,145 51,980 59,192,025 4,386,325 PLDT 1,145 1,145 APOLLO GLOBAL 0.006 0.0061 0.0061 0.0062 0.006 0.0061 458,000,000 2,759,000 18,000 CONVERGE 9.16 9.08 9.11 9.12 9.08 9.08 8,702,800 79,179,475 -35,450,288 0.65 0.7 0.7 0.7 3,000 2,100 DFNN INC 0.7 0.7 ISLAND INFO 0.127 0.13 0.133 0.136 0.126 0.13 2,750,000 359,840 0.435 0.435 0.43 0.43 0.43 0.435 280,000 121,400 -8,650 NOW CORP 0.116 0.119 0.116 0.118 0.116 0.116 140,000 16,420 TRANSPACIFIC BR 0.87 0.9 0.89 0.89 0.89 141,000 125,490 18,690 CHELSEA 0.89 CEBU AIR 27.55 27.6 27.7 27.8 27.55 27.55 204,900 5,652,900 -250,335 INTL CONTAINER 975 976 958 984 956 975 1,641,770 1,601,812,425 627,910,240 7.76 7.79 7.76 7.76 7.76 7.76 1,500 11,640 LBC EXPRESS 3.74 3.78 3.78 3.73 3.74 1,054,000 3,953,370 -226,220 MACROASIA 3.79 PAL HLDG 3.02 3.05 3 3.06 2.97 3.02 1,685,000 5,107,200 -1,085,700 1.86 1.87 1.98 1.98 1.87 1.87 4,557,000 8,642,070 241,330 HARBOR STAR 0.033 0.034 0.034 0.036 0.033 0.033 12,600,000 424,000 3,300 BOULEVARD HLDG DISCOVERY WORLD 0.95 0.98 0.95 0.95 0.95 0.95 18,000 17,100 5.01 5.03 5.02 5.02 5.02 5.02 2,700 13,554 GRAND PLAZA 0.213 0.215 0.239 0.239 0.203 0.213 14,060,000 3,085,660 -659,310 PH RESORTS GRP 15.1 15.16 15.16 15.16 800 12,128 CENTRO ESCOLAR 15.16 15.16 FAR EASTERN U 800 823 800 800 800 800 970 776,000 7.28 6.94 7.26 7.3 7.26 7.28 53,800 392,092 387,730 IPEOPLE 1.32 1.33 1.31 1.32 1.31 1.32 112,000 147,240 119,530 STI HLDG BELLE CORP 1.13 1.14 1.12 1.14 1.12 1.14 1,099,000 1,233,950 387,520 BLOOMBERRY 25,035,240 2.29 2.3 2.35 2.35 2.28 2.29 10,847,000 -6,492,170 1.58 1.73 1.56 1.56 1.55 1.55 123,000 190,810 3,100 PACIFIC ONLINE 9.3 9.35 9.22 9.22 9.35 2,967,700 27,661,811 -7,498,220 DIGIPLUS 9.52 BERJAYA 8.35 7.18 9 8.35 8.33 8.33 800 6,667 1.1 1.1 1.07 1.07 1.07 1.1 13,000 13,980 METRO RETAIL 40.3 40.75 40.8 40.3 40.3 584,500 23,647,450 -8,335,950 40.55 PUREGOLD 31.5 32 32.2 32.5 31.25 32 740,400 23,769,430 -464,620 PHIL SEVEN CORP SSI GROUP 2.1 2.13 2.1 2.11 2.1 2.1 50,000 105,050 0.85 0.87 0.85 0.9 0.84 0.87 478,000 417,870 -13,490 UPSON INTL CORP 5.69 5.75 5.8 5.8 5.66 5.69 495,300 2,818,705 -686,302 WILCON DEPOT APC GROUP 0.109 0.111 0.111 0.111 0.11 0.111 160,000 17,710 -5,500 IPM HLDG 2.04 2.12 1.96 2.12 1.96 2.1 11,000 22,980 0.23 0.23 0.231 0.23 0.231 100,000 23,070 0.233 MEDILINES 3.45 3.46 3.64 3.31 3.45 138,000 466,490 13,670 PAXYS 3.64 PHILCOMSAT 1.63 1.64 1.63 1.63 1.63 1.63 45,000 73,350 MINING & OIL ATOK 2.02 2.05 2.14 2 2.02 264,000 547,490 -35,400 2.09 APEX MINING 17.46 17.5 16.8 17.5 16.8 17.5 5,100,000 88,236,570 26,099,682 ATLAS MINING 22.7 22.75 23.05 24 22.4 22.7 11,499,000 266,645,920 37,009,385 7.61 7.7 7.75 7.75 7.6 7.6 304,600 2,329,035 BENGUET A 7.61 7.77 7.77 7.77 7.61 7.61 23,200 176,600 BENGUET B EC VULCAN 0.385 0.395 0.385 0.42 0.385 0.4 5,270,000 2,138,150 -104,050 FERRONICKEL 2.57 2.55 2.55 2.63 2.55 2.55 15,755,000 40,707,300 -3,267,410 0.108 0.108 0.108 0.11 90,000 9,880 GEOGRACE 0.11 0.11 LEPANTO A 0.25 0.25 0.249 0.249 0.248 0.25 19,650,000 4,893,970 0.248 0.248 0.24 0.248 0.248 0.248 1,200,000 297,600 62,000 LEPANTO B 0.009 0.0091 0.009 0.009 0.0088 0.0088 10,000,000 88,900 MANILA MINING A 0.85 0.88 0.91 0.84 0.86 8,593,000 7,588,070 -218,250 MARCVENTURES 0.86 NIHAO 0.65 0.6 0.62 0.65 0.6 0.6 568,000 351,680 4.72 4.75 4.7 4.85 4.69 4.75 5,444,000 25,874,500 4,075,340 NICKEL ASIA 38 36.9 38 36.8 38 1,883,200 71,081,605 -2,654,735 OCEANAGOLD 38.05 0.62 0.63 0.61 0.64 0.61 0.63 433,000 271,730 6,300 ORNTL PENINSULA PX MINING 11.5 11.12 11.48 11.7 11.8 11.5 10,555,100 121,772,424 4,212,498 0.009 0.0092 0.0093 0.0095 0.009 0.0092 22,000,000 202,100 -36,000 UNITED PARAGON 0.014 0.015 0.014 0.014 0.014 0.014 19,200,000 268,800 ORNTL PETROL A ORNTL PETROL B 0.014 0.015 0.015 0.015 0.014 0.014 5,400,000 77,000 -42,000 PHILODRILL 0.0093 0.0092 0.0091 0.0091 0.0091 0.0092 21,000,000 193,100 3.22 3.24 3.29 3.29 3.15 3.24 479,000 1,540,000 -29,260 PXP ENERGY PREFFERED ACEN PREF B 1,024 1,030 1,023 1,023 1,023 1,023 30 30,690 1,953 1,955 1,950 1,950 1,950 1,950 95 185,250 AC PREF B3R BRN PREF C 101.5 102.4 102.4 102.4 102.4 102.4 10 1,024 28.25 28.4 28.7 28.7 28.4 28.4 15,900 451,590 CEB PREF 980 994 985 987 985 987 60 59,120 CLI PREF A1 1,005 1,010 1,005 1,010 1,005 1,010 35 35,300 CLI PREF A2 CPG PREF B 98.05 98.5 98.5 98.5 98.5 98.5 300 29,550 93.8 94.7 95 95 94 94.6 13,850 1,302,776 DD PREF 96 96.5 96.5 96.5 96.5 96.5 270 26,055 EEI PREF B FDC PREF B 990 995 995 995 995 995 50 49,750 991 998.5 997 998 997 998 2,600 2,594,100 GTCAP PREF B 991.5 1,000 995 995 995 995 10 9,950 JFC PREF B 103.1 104 104 104 104 104 320 33,280 MWIDE PREF 6C MWIDE PREF 7A 100.6 101 100 100.6 100 100.6 2,100 211,200 99.65 102 99.6 99.6 99.6 99.6 500 49,800 MWIDE PREF 7B 985 998 998 998 998 998 10 9,980 PCOR PREF 4C 970 977 977 977 977 977 50 48,850 PCOR PREF 4D SFI PREF 1.24 1.34 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.15 3,000 3,450 77.35 80 77.35 79.95 77.35 79.95 20 1,573 SMC PREF 2L 77.2 78.8 78.9 78.9 78.8 78.8 1,410 111,240 SMC PREF 2N SMC PREF 2O 78.6 79 79.5 80 79 79 3,240 256,695 73.5 76 76 76 76 76 40 3,040 SMC PREF 2Q 75.1 76 76 76 76 76 100 7,600 SMC PREF 2U 78.2 78.9 78.25 78.25 78.1 78.2 600 46,929 SMC PREF 2V SMC PREF 2W 77.9 78.05 77.9 78.05 77.9 78.05 40 3,118 79.5 79.7 79.8 79.8 79.7 79.7 2,040 162,689 SMC PREF 2X 100.4 101 100.4 100.6 100.4 100.6 450 45,209 TOP PREF A1 TOP PREF A2 101.5 103 102 103 102 103 610 62,482 -

PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR

pifa.com.ph to see the latest NAVPS/NAVPU.”

53.05 118.9 10.6 104.5 53.35 10.14 64.9 7 14.8 76.65 52 105 22.9 64.5 23.05 0.52 1.4 0.54 4.21 0.117 2,700 1.52 212.8 4,900 1.32

INDUSTRIAL

3.14

3.41 4.16 -

ALFM GLOBAL MULTI-ASSET INCOME FUND, INC. -A $0.8061 -1.1% 1.35% -4.22% N.A 3.97 GMA HLDG PDR -0.48% WARRANTS A - NAVPS AS OF THE PREVIOUS BANKING DAY. B - NAVPS AS OF TWO BANKING DAYS AGO. C - LISTED IN THE PSE. AGI WARRANT 1.1 1 - EFFECTIVE OCTOBER 1, 2025, ITS FUND MANAGEMENT IS WITH BPI WEALTH. 2 - LAUNCH DATE IS FEBRUARY 2, 2026. SM A L L, M ED I U M & EM E R G IN G 3 - LAUNCH DATE IS DECEMBER 18, 2024. MEMBERSHIP WITH PIFA WAS OFFICIALLY APPROVED ON SEPTEMBER 12, CTS GLOBAL 0.345 2025. 1.37 HAUS TALK 4 - MEMBERSHIP WITH PIFA WAS OFFICIALLY APPROVED ON MARCH 26, 2026. ITALPINAS 0.67 KEPWEALTH 1.51 5 - LAUNCH DATE IS APRIL 17, 2026, AND IT REPRESENTS THE SECOND TRANCHE OF THE ATRAM UNITIZED CORPORATE 0.019 LFM PROP DEBT VEHICLE, INC. 1.9 MAKATI FINANCE XURPAS 0.206 “While we endeavor to keep the information accurate, the Philippine Investment Funds Association (PIFA) and its members make no

warranties as to the correctness of the newspaper’s publication and assume no liability or responsibility for any error or omissions. You may visit http://www.

September 9, 2026

103.2

1.13

1.05

1.14

1.05

1.14

17,000

17,940

0.35 1.39 0.68 1.66 0.021 2.17 0.224

0.35 1.38 0.68 1.59 0.021 1.9 0.226

0.35 1.4 0.68 1.59 0.021 1.9 0.226

0.35 1.37 0.68 1.59 0.02 1.9 0.205

0.35 1.39 0.68 1.59 0.02 1.9 0.205

70,000 179,000 13,000 1,000 1,000,000 3,000 370,000

24,500 247,240 8,840 1,590 20,100 5,700 79,420

-2,040 -

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS FIRST METRO ETF

104

103.9 104 103.1 104 2,200 227,299 -

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Banking&Finance

CPAs at the budget table

N the coming weeks, Congress will again perform one of its most consequential constitutional responsibilities: scrutinizing the national budget. The Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) has set the proposed 2027 national budget at P7.2 trillion, equivalent to 21.7 percent of gross domestic product. The House of Representatives will deliberate on the National Expenditure Program and examine the government’s spending priorities. For accountants, this should be more than just an ordinary event to read about quotidianly. It should raise an important question about the profession’s public interest objectives. Should the accountancy profession be an active participant in providing and examining financial and technical inputs in the national budget? The practice in India is an interesting model worth studying and considering. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), a statutory professional body established under India’s “Chartered Accountants Act of 1949,” regularly participates in the country’s fiscal policy process through technical submissions to the government. Before the union budget, the ICAI solicits recommendations from its members and stakeholders and consolidates them into formal pre-budget proposals. For India’s 2026 -2027 union budget, the ICAI sought proposals involving the reduction of litigation, greater tax certainty, lower compliance burdens, widening the tax base, improving tax revenues, preventing tax avoidance and rationalizing direct tax laws. These were not simply general observations. Contributors were asked to identify specific provisions, issues, recommended changes and the rationale behind them. The ICAI subsequently presented its pre-budget recommendations to the government, covering measures affecting taxation, business reorganization, compliance, investment and revenue collection. More significantly, the ICAI reported that more than a hundred of its earlier recommendations concerning the comprehensive review of India’s income tax law were considered in the “Incometax Act, 2025.” P rofession a l pa r t ic ipat ion does not end when India’s budget is presented. After the 2026-2027 budget was introduced in Parliament, IC AI committees again invited members to examine the finance bill and submit proposals for a post-budget memorandum to India’s Ministry of Finance. This is an important lesson here for the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (Picpa). The Picpa represents a multi-faceted pool of expertise in accounting, auditing, taxation, financial management, internal controls and governance. These are the disciplines that are crucial when the government decides how trillions of pesos are raised, borrowed, allocated and ultimately spent. The potential participation of CPAs would be advisory and technical in nature and would not interfere with the authorities and prerogatives of the Executive, the DBCC, the DBM and Congress in fiscal and budgetary allocations to the various departments of government. In principle, this

would be consistent with the government’s existing policy of encouraging participation by civil society organizations and other stakeholders in the budget process. The DBM already provides avenues for stakeholder engagement during budget preparation, while Congress has likewise opened mechanisms for civil society participation in budget deliberations. Consider the multiple factors involved in a P7.2-trillion budget: revenue projections; expenditure programs; deficits targets; financing requirements; debt service; agency absorptive capacity; procurement; contingent liabilities; subsidies; and, performance indicators. Behind every appropriation are numbers that eventually become actual collections, borrowings and disbursements. The DBCC first establishes the macroeconomic assumptions, fiscal targets, revenue projections, expenditure levels and financing requirements that provide the framework for the national budget. On the other hand, the Picpa and the professionals can provide valuable independent perspectives regard ing these assumptions involving revenue projections, sustainabilit y of deficit financing, implications for national debt, effectiveness of internal controls, duplication of programs, measurable outcomes of appropriations and safeguards against waste. In executing this proposal, Picpa could begin developing a structured “Pre-Budget Memorandum,” patterned where appropriate after India’s experience tempered by differing situations of political, economic, and social conditions. Its committees and chapters could solicit recommendations from CPAs in public practice, commerce and industry, government and education. These could then be evaluated and consolidated into technically supported recommendations for consideration by the DBCC, the DBM and Congress. This participation would also strengthen public understanding of the budget. Budget debates often become hot contests over which agency received more or less money. Yet the size of an appropriation alone tells the tax-paying public little about whether they are receiving value for their money. The Commission on Audit performs the indispensable constitutional responsibility of examining how public funds have been used. But there is equally great value in applying professional financial expertise before billions are appropriated and spent. With the proposed 2027 national budget, greater professional participation should be welcomed. After all, CPAs should not merely help answer the question, “Where did the money go?” More crucially, they should help the public get answers to the gut question, “Do the numbers make sense, and do the Filipino people receive value for their money?” Ray G. Talimio Jr., CPA, is a National Officer of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (Picpa) and a member of the Association of Certified Public Accountants in Public Practice (ACPAPP). The views he expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the official positions of the BusinessMirror, the Picpa, the Acpapp or the organizations with which Mr. Talimio is affiliated.

BusinessMirror

Editor: Dennis D. Estopace • Thursday, September 10, 2026

‘Pockets’ of financial stress behind July bad loans hike By Andrea E. San Juan

HE increase in bad loans ratio in July reflects “pockets” of financial stress among some households and businesses after an extended period of high borrowing costs and elevated inflation, according to analysts.

Experts pointed this out after data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed that the gross non-performing loans (NPLs) ratio climbed to 3.35 percent in July 2026—the highest in two months or since May 2026. Data showed that the peso value of bad loans climbed to P585.08 billion, up 9.27 percent from the P535.448 billion recorded in end-July 2025. Similarly, bad loans as of endJuly 2026 were higher by 0.02 percent than the P584.97 billion as of end-June 2026. NPLs, also known as “bad” or “soured” loans, are credit accommodations that have not been paid for 90 days or more after the due date. The NPL ratio measures the proportion of bad loans to total loans. Meanwhile, total loan portfolio amounted to P17.45 trillion as of end-July 2026. This was 1.86 percent lower than the P17.78 trillion as of end-June 2026. “While the economy continues to grow, not all sectors and borrow-

ers are recovering at the same pace, which is affecting repayment capacity in certain segments. At the same time, as bank lending expands, a modest rise in NPLs is a normal part of the credit cycle,” Jonathan L. Ravelas, senior adviser at Reyes Tacandong & Co. said in a Viber message. Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), explained that the higher inflation and interest rates have “effectively” reduced spending power and consumption thereby reducing sales, earnings, and employment. As a result, he said these reduced the ability to pay by borrowing businesses, industries, households and other institutions.

Breakdown

THE NPL ratio of universal and commercial bank group stood at 3.08 percent with the peso value of bad loans amounting to P495.91 billion, as of end-July. The ratio is higher than the 3.01 percent in June but lower than

the 3.12 percent in June last year. For thrift or savings banks, the NPL ratio plunged to 6.16 percent, or P65.87 billion, as of end-July 2026 from 6.33 percent in June, but remained above the 6.06 percent level in July 2025. Meanwhile, the asset quality of digital banks worsened with their NPL ratio climbing to 6.45 percent, or P5.395 billion, as of end-July 2026 from 6.16 percent at end-June. This was, however, lower compared to the 6.98 percent NPL ratio in July last year. Meanwhile, past due loans reached P738.77 billion as of end-July 2026, down by 1.94 percent from P753.38 billion a month ago; and higher by 7.44 percent from P687.59 billion billion at end-July 2025. The past due loans ratio settled at 4.23 percent of banks’ total loan portfolio in July 2026, lower than the 4.24 percent in June 2026 and the 4.36 percent in July 2025.

Outlook

MOVING forward, Ravelas said the key will be “continued” economic growth, easing inflation, lower interest rates, and “prudent” credit risk management to help improve borrowers’ debt-servicing capacity. Ricafort said for the coming months, continued stronger growth in loans compared to economic growth could still reflect some “frontloading and hedging of various purchases by some borrowing businesses before prices and interest rates go up further as a matter of prudence” amid the conflict in the Middle East.

He explained that the front-loading of purchases could expand the “loans denominator” which could somewhat temper the bad loans ratio. Still, he said the faster increase in the prices of goods and services or inflation could lead to “greater need for loans by those that barely make ends meet, especially those at lower income brackets,” which he said could be the source of bad loans. “Future economic/GDP growth would be an important catalyst for lenders and credit rating agencies in terms of catch-up government spending, especially on infrastructure, to make up for the underspending since the latter part of 2025 largely due to the anomalous floodcontrol projects since then,” Ricafort explained. He added that faster economic growth would help boost sales, incomes, and employment “that tend to improve the ability to pay by some borrowers than otherwise in view of geopolitical uncertainties/risks in recent months.” He also warned that a strong El Niño drought from the fourth quarter of 2026 to early 2027 could be a source of new bad loans, especially for the hardest hit sectors in agriculture and other affected businesses, industries, consumers, and households. Ravelas said the recent increase in bad loans does not point to a systemic banking issue. “Philippine banks remain wellcapitalized and adequately provisioned, while the NPL ratio remains manageable by historical standards,” added Ravelas.

BIR allows EOEs to claim ADB to help Manila, Pasig VAT refunds in the interim in $100-M waste project By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto

HE Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) will allow export-oriented enterprises (EOEs) to claim refunds on value-added tax (VAT) passed on to them while awaiting the issuance of their VAT zero-rating certifications from the Department of Trade and Industry —Export Marketing Bureau (DTI-EMB). Internal Revenue Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza issued Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 096-2026 amending the VAT refund guidelines to cover VAT paid on local purchases and imports used for qualified zero-rated sales beginning November 28, 2024, up to the date their certification was issued. The certification, however, must be issued within the prescribed transition period ending December 31, 2025, the BIR noted. The clarification covers exporters that were already qualified for zerorating but had yet to receive their DTIEMB certifications when they incurred VAT on their purchases and imports. “Export-oriented enterprises received their VAT zero-rating certifications on different dates during the transition period,” Mendoza said. “We are clarifying how VAT incurred while these certifications were being processed should be treated so qualified export-oriented enterprises will have a clear basis for their refund claims.” To qualify for a refund, EOEs must submit the necessary documents and show that the VAT they are claiming is

directly related to their qualified zerorated sales. VAT that has already been reimbursed, credited, adjusted, recovered from suppliers or otherwise utilized may not be the subject of a VAT refund claim, the BIR said. EOEs that met the 70-percent export threshold in the preceding taxable year but failed to secure the required DTI-EMB certification are likewise not entitled to a VAT refund for the immediately succeeding year, the bureau added. Any unused input VAT may instead be carried forward to succeeding taxable quarters and used against future VAT liabilities, subject to existing tax rules. “Our objective is to ensure fair and consistent tax treatment for qualified export-oriented enterprises during the transition to the new zero-rating certification system,” Mendoza said. “If they complied with the requirements and their certification was issued within the prescribed period, the VAT they properly incurred while waiting may be refunded in accordance with the law,” he added. The DTI issued Administrative Order No. 25-03 last March 2025, setting the certification guidelines for EOEs under the Create More Act. The BIR followed with RMC No. 37-2025 last April 2025, which laid out the procedures for claiming VAT refunds. Under the earlier guidelines, EOEs could seek refunds for VAT incurred on local purchases and imports starting November 28, 2024, until the DTI-EMB began processing their zero-rating certifications.

By Justine Xyrah Garcia

ANILA and Pasig are set to receive support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under a proposed $100- million project to improve solid waste management and strengthen waste infrastructure in the two cities. The proposed Advancing Circular Urban Pathways (Acup) Project will support investments in waste segregation, collection and sorting infrastructure, as well as recycling and resource recovery systems, according to a new document published in the bank’s website. The project also seeks to establish digital systems for waste traceability and improve the recovery of value from waste, while addressing financing and capacity gaps that have constrained the expansion of effective waste-management solutions. “The proposed project will prioritize high-risk riverbank communities, ring-fence local waste infrastructure investments through ser vice and performance-based financing, de-risk private sector’s exposure to uncertain feedstock risk, and catalyze future circular economy investments,” the multilateral lender noted. According to ADB, Manila and Pasig were selected because of their strategic locations along the Pasig River, high wastegeneration volumes, infrastructure readiness and potential to demonstrate solutions that could be replicated elsewhere. Together, the bank said the two cities have about 2.6 million residents and generate around 2,400 tons of municipal

solid waste (MSW) daily, equivalent to about one-quarter of the National Capital Region’s total. The project also comes amid persistent waste-management challenges in the country, which the ADB attributed to rapid population growth, urbanization, changing consumption patterns and capacity constraints among local government units (LGUs). In the NCR, the ADB said around 40 percent of annual municipal solid waste remains uncollected, often ending up in waterways and drainage systems. Only 26 percent of LGUs have materials recovery facilities (MRFs), while about 40 percent of existing MRFs are functioning properly. The ADB said poor waste management also worsens flood risks by clogging drainage systems and water pumps, with vulnerable riverbank communities particularly exposed. Against this backdrop, the ADB said the Acup project will focus on improving waste services and infrastructure while strengthening public awareness and local capacity for better waste management. “ADB’s investment in city-level segregation, collection, and sorting infrastructure will close the viability gap that currently limits private sector participation, which is concentrated mainly in end-of-life recycling facilities,” it added. The project remains proposed, with further assessment to be undertaken during project preparation. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources is the executing agency, the ADB said.

GCash credits cash change to digital wallet By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

OBILE wallet GCash has rolled out a service that credits a shopper’s cash change directly to his digital wallet, starting with Bench outlets nationwide. The feature, called GSukli, allows customers paying in cash at participating cashiers to receive change of up to P199.99 in their GCash wallet instead of coins and small bills.

The service is offered for free. To use it, a customer gives his registered GCash mobile number to the cashier at the point of payment. The change is then credited to the wallet, with a short message service (SMS) notification sent once the transfer goes through. The credited amount can be used for the same transactions the wallet already supports, including bill payments, mobile load purchases, money transfers and online shopping. “Small amounts can go a long way

when made easily accessible. This newest feature reflects the commitment of GCash to making financial tools more practical and inclusive by helping users seamlessly move between cash and digital transactions,” said Barbie Dapul, COO and general manager for consumer business at G-Xchange Inc., the operator of GCash. GSukli is available at all Bench branches nationwide. More brands under Suyen Corp., the parent company of the clothing retailer, are set to offer the

service. Bryan C. Lim, VP for business development at Bench, said the tie-up is meant to speed up checkout while giving shoppers something to do with their loose change. “Bench has always been committed to making everyday experiences simpler and more convenient for our customers. Through our partnership with GCash, GSukli gives customers a practical way to put their sukli to use while making the checkout experience even more seamless for every in-store visit,” he said.

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Japan & PHL deepen healthcare cooperation

HE Cabinet Secretariat of Japan and the Department of Health (DOH) recently highlighted their ongoing partnership and deepening healthcare cooperation. This developed as both parties conducted their fourth Joint Committee Meeting on Healthcare in Manila, which focused on three concerns the Philippines currently faces in the health sector: 1) elderly care, 2) universal health coverage (UHC), and 3) disaster health management. According to the Embassy of Japan, early preparation is essential to address the challenges of an aging society, as the Philippines has begun taking steps to anticipate this demographic transition. It said that achieving UHC and ensuring access to high-quality medical and preventive care has also become a key challenge. Moreover, managing public health during disasters, such as the increasing frequency of typhoons, has become a major hurdle. Facing

similar issues and demonstrating expertise in addressing such concerns, it said, makes cooperation between Japan and the Philippines all the more vital. The Japanese government’s ambassador for Global Health Teiji Hayashi reaffirmed the deepening linkage with the Philippines in the field of healthcare. Likewise, Health Undersecretary Maylene Beltran expressed her appreciation for Japan’s continued support. The discussions and exchanges of ideas aimed to translate high-level strategic commitments into more concrete, actionable, and sustainable initiatives. They also sought to broaden the JapanPhilippines partnership beyond clinical care and across the healthcare sector for both countries' benefit.

AMBASSADOR for Global Health Teiji Hayashi (right) and Health Undersecretary Maylene Beltran

Vietnam investments in 2026 seen to surpass $100 million

NVESTMENTS from Vietnam are expected to exceed $100 million by year-end, according to Ambassador Lai Thai Binh. At a reception marking the Southeast Asian country’s National Day in Manila, Lai said Vietnamese companies had invested more than $90 million in the Philippines, or about 70 percent of cumulative funding in the country to date. Both countries also aim to increase bilateral trade by 30 percent to $10 billion this year. Trade between the Asean neighbors reached nearly $8 billion in 2025, making Vietnam the Philippines’ 11th-largest trading partner. According to Lai, Vietnamese rice has consistently accounted for about 80 percent of the Philippines’ total rice imports, while the latter accounts for nearly half of Vietnam’s rice exports. “As we look ahead to the next 50

FOREIGN AFFAIRS Undersecretary Maria Andrelita Austria, Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Ambassador Lai Thai Binh, and Archbishop Charles John Brown lead the celebration of Vietnam’s National Day and the 50th anniversary of Philippine-Vietnam diplomatic relations.

years, amid an era of profound global changes, Vietnam and the Philippines share a compounding responsibility,” the ambassador said. “We must further deepen our economic cooperation, recognizing that development is not secondary to security; rather,

[it] is one of the very foundations of enduring security.” Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Maria Andrelita Austria said Manila will work to achieve a “balanced trade relationship” by expanding two-way opportunities, improving market ac-

cess, alongside reduction of trade and investment barriers. In a separate interview, Lai said the two countries are working on a new plan of action to facilitate practical cooperation in several areas: “[Our two countries have been able to upgrade our relations to an] Enhanced Strategic Partnership. This is very important for both countries, and it’s not just a name; it’s a real upgrade of the very close and special relation between the two countries.” “We hope that the new partnership will contribute a lot, not only to the benefits of our two peoples, but also to the region,” he added. The Philippines and Vietnam formally established diplomatic relations on July 12, 1976. Their ties were elevated into an Enhanced Strategic Partnership during President To Lam of Vietnam’s state visit to Manila in June. Story and photo by Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA

Restoring trust: Taiwan’s rightful place in the free world By Dr. Lin Chia-lung

Minister of Foreign Affairs, ROC (Taiwan)

HE rules-based international order is under growing strain as authoritarian states seek to weaken its safeguards and reshape international rules to serve their own interests. Even the fundamental principles of peaceful settlement of disputes and the prohibition against the threat or use of force, enshrined in the United Nations Charter, have been openly challenged and flagrantly flaunted. Today, the international community stands at a critical juncture. Either we act together to uphold justice, defend the rule of law, and maintain peace and security, or we watch the world order steadily crumble away, taking freedom, self-determination, and democracy with it. There are few places where this choice is more starkly presented than in the first island chain of the IndoPacific. The region’s security has come under growing pressure from China, which continues to deploy gray-zone tactics—including military intimidation, cyber intrusions, and economic coercion—in an attempt to reshape the existing rules and norms unilaterally. Standing on the front line of defense of freedom and democracy, Taiwan will continue to uphold the status quo firmly. However, preserving peace and stability in the region is not just in its interests—it is a shared concern of the international community.

DR. LIN

A force of good

THE Taiwan Strait is one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes and a major artery for international supply chains. Its significance to global security and prosperity is reflected in statements from the G7 and other summits and ministerial-level meetings among Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries. They make up a growing chorus of voices worldwide that underline the importance of cross-strait peace and stability. China’s deliberate misrepresentation of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 also undermines the integrity of the rules-based order. Adopted in 1971, the resolution addresses China’s representation at the UN. The text does not mention Taiwan, determine its political status, or address its participation in the UN system. Yet China has conspired to conflate the resolution with the so-called “one China principle” and use the resolution to block Taiwan’s

participation in the UN and other international organizations. If left unchecked, this distortion could set a dangerous legal precedent and serve as a pretext for future military action across the Taiwan Strait. Despite its exclusion from the UN, Taiwan is determined to act as a force for good. Taiwan’s strengths in advanced manufacturing, disaster preparedness, and public health could contribute to the international community in many ways. Taiwan has pursued an integrated and value-added foreign policy based on strengthening democratic alliances, promoting collective security, and building economic resilience. Working with like-minded partners, it advances democracy, human rights, and freedom worldwide. As a leader in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and technology, it is committed to building supply chains that are secure, resilient, and free from dependence on authoritarian regimes.

Standing ready

THROUGH its Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, Taiwan fosters coprosperity with its partners. It contributes expertise and resources to technology-driven projects with its diplomatic allies to address development challenges and strengthen local capacity. Concrete examples include collaboration on an integrated healthcare information system with Paraguay, the construction of a strategic oil reserve facility in Eswatini, and collaboration with Palau National Hospital on smart healthcare.

These initiatives have strengthened data management and efficiency, bolstered energy security, fostered industrial growth, and advanced sustainable development. President-elect of the upcoming 81st UN General Assembly, Khalilur Rahman, has made restoring trust and managing institutional transformation the overarching themes of his presidency. Taiwan shares these objectives and stands ready to help realize them. Restoring confidence in the UN must begin with treating every member of the international community fairly and justly. Transformation cannot be complete while a constructive and trustworthy member remains unjustly excluded. We are calling on the international community to uphold the principles of inclusiveness, leaving no one behind, settling disputes peacefully, and neither threatening nor using force. These imperatives underpin the rules-based international order and should be applied consistently and without exception. The free world needs Taiwan— and a stronger, more credible UN needs its meaningful participation. Working hand in hand with Taiwan will strengthen collective security, enhance economic and technological resilience, and build our shared capacity to withstand authoritarian pressure. Ensuring Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the UN is therefore essential to building a more inclusive, secure, resilient, and rules-based international order.

NIGERIAN ENVOY PRESENTS CREDENTIALS

Ambassador-designate IbokEte Ekwe Ibas was officially welcomed, and his credentials were received by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Malacañang Palace on September 1. Both pushed for the further strengthening of Philippine-Nigerian relations, as the two countries prepare to mark 65 years of diplomatic ties in 2027. The President also noted that “the Philippines and Nigeria have significant potential to expand cooperation especially in energy security, trade and investment, and pursue initiatives that would mutually benefit our peoples and our countries.” He was joined by Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Assistant Secretary Germinia Aguilar-Usudan, and Deputy Chief of Presidential Protocol Dennis Briones. The Philippines and the Federal Republic of Nigeria established diplomatic relations on August 1, 1962. The upcoming anniversary provides an opportunity for both countries to expand cooperation and exchanges across various areas of mutual interest. PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE/PNA/PND

Swedish literature takes spotlight at Manila International Book Fair

OR the first time, Swedish literature has a dedicated home at the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF). The Embassy of Sweden and Fully Booked Philippines are hosting the “Read Sweden” booth until September 13 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Home of the Nobel Prize and inventions like Spotify, Sweden is a global leader in innovation. Its culture of collaboration and strong investments in education have made it a fertile environment for creative industries: from music and gaming to design and literature. Robust state support keeps art, theatre, and literature accessible to the entire population, strengthening both creative diversity and freedom of expression. “I’m happy that we can make Swedish books more available for Filipino readers,” said Ambassador Anna Ferry. “At the Embassy, my colleagues and I had a fun time choosing the books. These novels are well-liked in Sweden and in other countries, and we made sure that there’s a title that will cater to every reader.” The Read Sweden booth features titles spanning literary fiction, contemporary fiction, Nordic Noir and thrillers, plus children’s books. This year’s featured authors are Fredrik Backman, Jonas Hassen Khemiri, David Lagercrantz, and Astrid Lindgren—celebrated voices in Sweden and bestselling authors globally.

All titles are available at 20 percent off the regular retail price, with exclusive freebies offered with every purchase. The booth, located on the second floor of MIBF (2-119), will also host cultural activities bringing Swedish storytelling to life for Filipino fairgoers, including a Swedish literature exhibit and language lessons. Featured books include A Man Called Ove, Anxious People, My Friends and Beartown by Fredrik Backman; The Sisters by Jonas Hassen Khemiri; The Millennium Series, The Girl in the Spider’s Web, The Girl Who Takes an Eye for an Eye, and The Girl Who Lived Twice by David Lagercrantz; as well as Pippi Longstocking, Pippi Goes on Board, and Pippi in the South Seas by Astrid Lindgren.

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National Day of Brazil

Thursday, September 10, 2026 B5

Brazil 204th Independence Day: Commemorating sovereignty, innovation, and enduring ties with PHL

Looking ahead, both nations see a significant runway for expanding trade and investment across high-growth sectors.

By Vincent Peter Rivera

AMOUS as South America’s largest nation, Brazil is widely celebrated for its vast Amazon rainforest, rich culinary traditions, and world-class sporting heritage. Yet beyond these iconic features lies a deep-rooted history of sovereignty and resilience—a history that intersected with the Philippines in a shared journey toward self-determination.

On September 7, 2026, Brazil officially commemorated its 204th anniversary of independence. During the National Day reception in Makati, Brazilian Ambassador His Excellency Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura reflected on the pivotal moment his country claimed its autonomy. “In the year of 1822, the country formally undid political ties to the Kingdom of Portugal and established itself as sovereign nation, ruled by Peter I, our first Emperor,” His Excellency recalled. “This political emancipation was at the same time a response to the demand for administrative autonomy, as well as a claim to cultural affirmation and distinct national destiny.” The milestone carried double significance this year, as it coincided with the 80th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Brazil.

A shared foundation

Formally established on July 4, 1946, bilateral relations began during a transformative post-war era as both nations charted new democratic paths. “Our diplomatic relations were established in 1946, at a defining moment for both countries,” Ambassador Guimarães de Moura highlighted. “That year, the Philippines regained its independence, while Brazil adopted a new democratic Constitution. On opposite sides of the globe, our nations affirmed sovereignty, democracy, and confidence in international cooperation. Eight decades later, those principles remain our compass.” Today, these enduring ties resulted in high-level exchanges, reflecting a deepening partnership. Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs Mauro Vieira conducted an official visit to the Philippines on August 23, 2024, followed by another visit from July 22 to 24 this year to join high-level meetings with Philippine officials and ASEAN leaders. Reciprocating these engagements, Philippine Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Policy Leo Herrera-Lim noted: “Secretary Maria Teresa P. Lazaro became the first Philippine Foreign Secretary to undertake an official visit to Brazil, where she personally reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to moving our relations fast forward during her courtesy call on President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and her bilateral meeting with Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira.” The bilateral agenda covers trade, investment, agriculture, defense, energy, education, judicial cooperation, and SouthSouth technical exchange.

Expanding agricultural ties

Agriculture forms a strong pillar of economic cooperation between the two nations.

“On bilateral trade, the Philippines has become Brazil’s largest export market for pork, surpassing China,” Undersecretary Herrera-Lim stated. “In return, the Philippines offers itself as Brazil’s high-value partner in food processing and logistics, as well as in semiconductors and electronics.” In the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development’s official post in February 2025, Ambassador Guimarães de Moura, First Secretary Juan Oliveira Bomfim, and Second Secretary Igor Da Motta Magalhães Carneiro met with then-NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan to discuss educational exchanges and the Philippines-Brazil Framework Agreement for Technical Cooperation. During that meeting, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) endorsed a proposal from the Department of Agriculture’s Sugar Regulatory Administration (DA-SRA) to leverage Brazilian technical expertise to boost sugarcane production in Negros Occidental. Brazil is also seeking to diversify its agricultural exports beyond meat products to include apples, peanuts, and onions, while exploring livestock exchanges in poultry and dairy cattle genetics, according to a statement from the International Trade Council last March 2025. A technical agreement is currently under development to streamline market access for Brazilian onions. Concurrently, Philippine seafood exporters are exploring market expansion into Brazil for high-value exports like tuna and sardines.

Investment, energy, and regional integration

Looking ahead, both nations see a significant runway for expanding trade and investment across high-growth sectors. “There is great potential to scale up Brazilian investments in agribusiness, renewable energy and bioenergy, the creative economy, information technology, business process management, and manufacturing capabilities,” Undersecretary Herrera-Lim observed. “The Philippines stands as the premier strategic gateway for Brazilian as well as Latin American companies expanding into ASEAN's $4-trillion market.” Commercial ties are already taking root in Latin America. Philippine multinational International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI)—which operates port facilities in Rio de Janeiro and the Port of Suape in Pernambuco—recently acquired Cargueira, a São Paulo-based logistics firm with over 50 years of experience in warehousing, customs, and multimodal transport. The move expands ICTSI’s presence beyond port management into end-to-end

From Left to Right: Leo Herrera-Lim, Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Policy; His Excellency Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura, Embassy of Brazil Ambassador; and Archbishop Charles John Brown, Apostolic Nuncio share a toast during the Brazi National Day and 80 Years of Philippines-Brazil Diplomatic Relations at Fairmont Makati on September 07, 2026. PHOTO BY VINCENT PETER RIVERA.

supply chain solutions across Brazil’s industrial core. Regional partnership remains central to the relationship. As the ASEAN Chair, the Philippines welcomed Brazil’s active engagement in regional mechanisms, including its participation in the third ASEAN-Brazil Trilateral Meeting and the 50th anniversary commemoration of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC)—a treaty Brazil was the first Latin American country to sign. “As Brazil deepens its engagement with Southeast Asia, the Philippines has become an indispensable partner in our relations with ASEAN,” Ambassador Guimarães de Moura stated. “We greatly value the Philippine chairmanship of ASEAN and trust that Manila’s leadership will advance Brazil’s aspiration to become a Sectoral Dialogue Partner. Stronger

Brazil-ASEAN ties will bring our regions closer.”

Shared horizons

“Sport will offer another opportunity to bring our peoples closer,” Ambassador Guimarães de Moura noted. “In 2027, Brazil will host the tenth FIFA Women's World Cup—the first edition of the tournament ever held in South America. Eight Brazilian host cities will welcome 32 teams and the world's greatest players. We look forward to sharing this historic occasion with the Philippines and fans across the world.” Reflecting on eight decades of cooperation, Undersecretary Herrera-Lim concluded: “May this milestone anniversary serve not only as a celebration of the past 80 years, but also as a beginning for the next 80 years of an even stronger and more dynamic partnership between the Philippines and Brazil.”

Health&Fitness BusinessMirror

B6 Thursday, September 10, 2026

Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz

Stroke victims getting Filipina care workers seen younger, says hospital exec sustaining aging Asia-Pacific By Manuel T. Cayon

By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes Contributor

ILIPINA caregivers and nurses are expected to play an increasingly important role in sustaining the care systems of aging Asia-Pacific economies such as Australia, Japan, and Singapore, according to a study by government think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS). But while the growing demand for Filipino care workers creates jobs and generates remittances, it could also deepen shortages in the Philippines’ own health and care sectors, creating what researchers describe as a “care deficit.” The PIDS Discussion Paper, titled “The Future of Work in Aging Societies: Filipina Migrant Workers in the Asia-Pacific Value Chains,” and authored by Jean Clarisse T. Carlos, Jocelyn O. Celero, and Evangeline Katigbak-Montoya, said care work can no longer be viewed simply as overseas employment. Instead, the authors argue that migrant care work has become an essential component of cross-border regional value chains as AsiaPacific economies grapple with aging populations, labor shortages, and rising demand for long-term care. “Asia-Pacific economies become increasingly care-intensive,” the study noted, the role of migrant workers will become even more critical in meeting the region’s growing care needs.

Growing demand THE Philippines has emerged as a major supplier of skilled care workers as labor shortages deepen across the region. The authors pointed out that Singapore employed about 250,000 foreign domestic workers in 2021, around half of whom were Filipinas. More than 3,000 Filipino nurses and caregivers have been deployed to Japan under the JapanPhilippines Economic Partnership Agreement, while Australia employs an estimated 10,000 Filipino healthcare professionals.

The country also has a sustained pipeline of women entering the caregiving profession. Citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority’s 2023 Labor Force Survey and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the authors said more than 85 percent of those enrolled in and graduating from caregiving training programs are women. Women also make up the overwhelming majority of the country’s care workforce. Filipino care workers are sought after overseas for their English proficiency, caregiving skills, and cultural adaptability, according to the study. These qualities have helped make Filipinos a key source of workers for healthcare, eldercare, and domestic care services in countries facing their own demographic and labor challenges.

The cost of migration DESPITE their growing importance, however, Filipina care workers continue to face a number of challenges abroad. The study identified insecure employment, long working hours, language barriers, limited opportunities for career advancement, and unequal access to labor protections, healthcare, and social security benefits among the issues confronting migrant care workers. The authors said the increasing dependence of destination countries on migrant care workers has not been matched by stronger protections for those workers. This creates a growing paradox. While destination countries increasingly rely on Filipino

workers to care for their aging populations, the continued migration of caregivers and healthcare professionals could leave the Philippines facing shortages of its own. The authors refer to this as a “care deficit,” a situation in which the country loses workers who could otherwise contribute to its domestic health and care system. Although overseas employment provides jobs and generates remittances, the study suggests that the economic benefits must be weighed against the potential long-term impact on the country’s own care workforce.

Beyond overseas employment TO examine these issues, the authors combined Philippine labor market data with policy analysis and interviews involving migration experts, government representatives, and Filipina migrant workers in Japan, Singapore, and Australia. This allowed them to examine both the economic value of migrant care work and the everyday experiences of Filipino workers, while identifying policy gaps affecting both sending and receiving countries. The study recommends several measures to help sustain the region’s growing care economy. These include improving the cross-border recognition of professional qualifications, expanding access to portable social protection and healthcare benefits, promoting ethical recruitment, investing in continuous skills development and digital training, and strengthening bilateral agreements between the Philippines and destination countries. “Ensuring the sustainability of this caredriven interdependence demands collective action, between states, industries, and regional institutions, to secure equitable, ethical, and technologically supported care systems across the APEC region,” the authors said. They added that recognizing the value of care work must go hand in hand with ensuring decent work, fair treatment, and adequate protection for the workers who support millions of older people across the region. “Filipina migrant workers lie at the nexus of economic necessity and social reproduction. They sustain aging populations abroad while filling fiscal gaps at home through remittances, yet their work remains undervalued and insufficiently protected,” the authors said.

Sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite with Sleepcare pillows From Gourdo’s, the collaboration of three innovative brands provides a holistic sleep wellness line that covers various bedding concerns.

Story & photos by Francine M. Marquez

OR many Filipinos, particularly those living and working in the metro, hours lost to traffic mean arriving home exhausted after a long day at work, with little time left to unwind or rest. More often than not, sleep does not follow. A study by the Philippine Society of Sleep Medicine Inc. (PSSMI) in March 2025 stated that the Philippines ranks number one in Southeast Asia and fourth globally as the “most sleep-deprived” nation. The report noted that this situation will only worsen if Filipinos continue to compromise quality sleep for other activities. This is especially true in recent months, when long commutes home tend to take away hours meant for sleep. Gourdo’s, a Filipino specialty store that sources quality homeware, kitchen accessories, and bed linens, recently launched a pop-up event at The Podium mall called “The Dream Oasis: Sleepcare x Healthguard,” where it presented the latest innovations in pillows and bed sheets. The event showcased the collaboration of three brands: homegrown Gourdo’s line Sleepcare; Healthguard, a technology from Australia; and A-Fontane, a bedding textile brand from Hong Kong. The collaboration of these three innovative brands provides a holistic sleep wellness line that addresses various bedding concerns. Sleepcare provides precision ergonomic design and tailored contouring to relieve spinal strain caused by hunched posture and daily back, muscle, and neck fatigue. Meanwhile, Sleepcare pillows are treated with Healthguard’s advanced biocide and medical-grade anti-dust mite treatments. Completing this sleep wellness set is A-Fontane, which brings its flagship StayClean technology—“a self-cleaning, stain-resistant, and liquid-repellent fabric barrier that keeps bedding hygienic, fresh, and effortlessly low-maintenance.”

Pillow profiles

TO match the different needs of sleepers, the Gourdo’s

RELAX, just do it, with Gourdo’s health-focused Sleepcare line of beddings.

Sleepcare pillow collection has four distinct pillow types, each with its own specialized engineering. The Sleepcare Memory Comfort Pillow has highdensity, open-cell memory foam and an ergonomic contoured design to support the cervical curve and align the spine, thus relieving pressure points across the neck and shoulders. The Sleepcare Memory Gel Pillow has an integrated Cool Gel membrane layer combined with a breathable bamboo cover. The gel layer absorbs and dissipates body heat away from the head and neck to regulate surface temperature, while the memory foam follows the neck’s natural curve to keep the spine straight during deep sleep. The Sleepcare Anti-Mite Anti-Bacterial Anti-Bed Bug Pillow is Healthguard-treated and encased in a premium 300-thread-count, air-permeable fabric. The full-length body pillow opens up the hips to align the lumbar spine. The Hotel Atelier Premium Queen Pillow is wrapped in 100 percent combed cotton and filled with high-loft microfiber similar to those found in five-star hotel bedding. The Gourdo’s Sleepcare product line is available at Gourdo’s branches and online via Lazada and Shopee.

Investing in a good night’s sleep

WITH today’s demanding lifestyle, Sleepcare pillows are designed to address specific needs.

GOURDO’S General Manager Susan San Miguel at the specialty store’s recent pop-up event, “The Dream Oasis” in Podium mall, September 5, 2026.

“We recognize that nowadays there are so many issues happening, and people are more stressed. Sleep is very important, and this is why we want to promote all the bedding products we have,” Susan San Miguel, Gourdo’s general manager, told the BusinessMirror. The Anti-Dust Mite pillows are priced at P995, while the Hotel Atelier Pillow is priced at P1,850 for Queen Size and P1,990 for King Size. Pricier than standard pillows sold in department stores, which range from P179 to P1,300, the medicalgrade treatment in Sleepcare pillows provides longterm health benefits. Quality pillows and other bed linens are important, San Miguel emphasized. “You need to invest in good bedding products. Why? Because you spend maybe 50 percent of your life sleeping. You do need to invest in a good mattress and good bedding because it will give you a good night’s sleep. And what I would always say is that if you try good sheets and good pillows, you will never go back.” Founded in 2001, Gourdo’s is a Filipino familyowned specialty retailer offering quality home, kitchen, dining, and lifestyle products sourced from around the world. It aims to provide Filipino households with top-of-the-line products that combine elegance, comfort, quality, and functionality.

AVAO CITY—Younger people are now entering the list of stroke victims, dispelling the belief that the affliction only hits older people, the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) has warned. “There are a lot of misconceptions about stroke, one of which is that stroke afflicts only old people,” said SPMC Medical Officer Dr. Rafael Nicolas C. Banga, who elaborated on the subject during his guesting on the city government-owned Davao City Disaster Radio health program. Banga said they have treated stroke patients who are 23 and 27 years old. When they checked these young stroke patients, they found that they had high cholesterol levels, smoked, and used prohibited drugs.

Consultations SPMC attended to 2,000 stroke patients in 2025, among them patients in their 20s. Its Neurology Department also received 2,000 stroke-related consultations. “Another misconception is that when symptoms disappear, it would already be all right,” Banga said. He warned, however, that temporary symptoms “are warning signs of an impending full-blown stroke.” “Patients must go to the hospital, undergo a medical checkup, and take medications when prescribed,” he said. Banga said patients should take stroke symptoms seriously. “If patients are experiencing symptoms, they must go directly to the hospital rather than just rest and wait for the symptoms to fade.”

“The longer we wait, the bigger the damage will be,” Banga said.

Two types of strokes

DR. Meldy Anuta, a specialist in internal medicine and neurology, said stroke has two main types: ischemic and hemorrhagic. “We have ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. When an ischemic stroke occurs, there is a blockage in the blood vessels. Blood could not flow to the vital organs. Another type of stroke, although it is a minority, is hemorrhagic stroke. Our veins burst and when they do, the blood scatters throughout the surrounding areas of our brain,” Anuta said. Warning signs for both types of stroke include facial weakness or numbness, arm and leg weakness or numbness, and speech abnormalities. These symptoms commonly manifest quickly. Other symptoms that victims may experience include balance abnormalities or loss of balance, dizziness, and eye abnormalities or blurred vision. Anuta pointed to high blood pressure as the biggest risk factor, saying that “lowering your blood pressure reduces your chance of having a stroke.” Other high-risk factors include diabetes mellitus, heart conditions such as irregular heartbeats, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, lack of sleep, high cholesterol levels, and stress. Family history, such as having parents or grandparents who suffered a stroke, also increases one’s chances. The medical professionals advised the public to adopt a healthier lifestyle, check and control their risk factors, have regular checkups, and act immediately when initial symptoms manifest.

Perpetual Help Medical Center-Las Pinas CEO wins Asian region hospitals award

S the University of Perpetual Help DALTA Medical Center-Las Piñas celebrates its 50th year, it chalked up a significant win after its Chair and Founder Dr/BGen Antonio Laperal Tamayo was awarded “Hospital CEO of the Year Excellence Award” given by Hospital Management Asia held in ceremonies on September 3, 2026, in Bangkok, Thailand. University of Perpetual Help Medical Center-Las Pinas President Lt. Col. Richard M. Tamayo and Medical Management Officer Dr. Rachel Antonette Tamayo received the award on behalf of the CEO and Founder. “This award is a welcome gift as we celebrate the 50th year of our institution. We dedicate this award to all Perpetualite health workers who worked diligently and selflessly in pursuit of our mission that is embedded in our motto ‘Dedicated to Life,’” Dr./BGen Tamayo said in a statement. Hospital Management Asia (HMA) is regional community that helps hospital owners, C-level executives, directors, clinicians, and healthcare leaders improve outcomes and efficiency. Its key focus areas include quality and safety, operational excellence, healthcare innovation, and patient and staff experience. It has an expansive presence in Asia’s hospital management community and extensive ties to medical and hospital associations in the region. The HMA hosts the Asia-Pacific region’s largest annual gathering of healthcare leaders where the HMA Awards

LT. Col. Richard Tamayo and Dra. Rachel Antonette Tamayo pose with the award

are given. In its 25th year, this year’s competition was exceptionally competitive with some 400 entries from 153 hospitals across 18 countries. Dr./BGen Tamayo established the University of Perpetual Help DALTA Medical Center-Las Pinas in 1976 with a purposeful mission to deliver quality healthcare to underserved communities particularly in Southern Metro Manila. From a 50-bed facility, the hospital is now a tertiary 285-bed teaching and training hospital with state-of-the-art diagnostic, surgical, interventional, and therapeutic facilities.

Learn safe, sustainable health-care waste management with WHO’s new online course

By Patrick Villanueva

S health care becomes more progressive in today’s society, the knowledge and skills of health-care workers, professionals, technical partners, and policymakers should keep pace. This is what the World Health Organization (WHO) aims to contribute with its new online course on health-care waste management. Announced on August 20, 2026, WHO, alongside UNICEF, launched a new free online course, “Advanced Health Care Waste Management, Including Considerations for Treatment, Mercury and Pharmaceutical Waste.” The course tackles the safer and more sustainable management of waste throughout its full cycle. WHO launched the online course in response to its findings that, in 2025, 21 percent of health-care facilities had limited basic waste management services, while 7 percent had none at all. The latter figure translates to an estimated 571 million people globally being served by health-care facilities without a basic waste-management system in place. While far from perfect, the Philippines scored relatively well in the study, particularly in the coverage of water and sanitation services and environmental cleaning. Its gaps were seen mainly in hygiene services and waste-management services.

Lesson coverage

THE lessons in the new course cover the following topics: Why health-care waste management matters; Understanding the health-care waste system; Treatment technologies and planning; Sizing systems and building capacity; and Managing mercury and pharmaceutical waste. After completing the course, students are expected to understand the different types of health-care waste, assess associated hazards and risks, implement appropriate management practices for mercury and pharmaceutical waste, and develop approaches to waste minimization. “Safe healthcare waste management is fundamental to quality care, infection prevention and control, and the protection of health workers, communities and the environment,” said Bruce Gordon, WHO Director a.i., Department of Environment, Climate Change, One Health and Migration. The course does not require prior knowledge of health-care waste management, although such knowledge could be an advantage. The fully online course is self-paced and consists of six modules, plus an introduction and overview, followed by a course assessment and conclusion, for a total of nine modules. Learn more about the course through the WHO Academy course page.

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Parentlife BusinessMirror

Editor: Gerard S. Ramos • Thursday, September 10, 2026

The ‘Grandest’ love of all SOME memorable photos with my dearest Ama Inang

‘Tis the season for manipeds, but don’t forget what’s beneath the polish WITH the holiday season fast approaching, salons are getting booked and busy with people glamming up for all the yearend parties and reunions. A glamorous look is incomplete without the magic of perfectly manicured fingers and toes. Beyond French tips and glossy colors, a mani-pedi session has evolved into a form of art and self-expression. Intricate and elaborate nail art now use gel polish, dip powder, acrylic extensions, as well as studded and magnetic designs, which include whimsical fruit and beach designs in playful jelly-like 3D art, Met Gala-approved metallic nails with chrome accents, or even fool-proof dainty gemstone flowers. Sky’s the limit these days. Nail art may be a great way to elevate a look, but it is important to keep your nails healthy. The country’s top hospital Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed, www. makatimed.net.ph) reminds that playing with colors and embellishments shouldn’t get in the way of taking care of your actual nails. “What may look pretty on the surface may be covering an entirely different story underneath. Our nails can provide us with clues and hints about our health as a whole,” explains dermatologist Sharon Osmena Lim, MD, FPDS, DPSV. “Keep an eye out as changes in nail color, its texture, shape, and even its strength. These can point to underlying medical conditions such as nutritional deficiencies, infections, and possibly even cancer, which will definitely require further attention.” A healthy nail usually feels smooth, strong, and is uniformly pink with white tips. Lim underscores that unusual changes in the nails should not be overlooked. When nails feel brittle or break easily, this may be linked to many causes which can include poor nutrition, fad diets, decreased circulation, or trauma from excessive manipulation during a mani-pedi session. Brittle, discolored nails can also be the result of harmful exposure to chemicals or even excessive chemicals in nail polish and cuticle removers, excessive removal of the nail itself, traumatic removal of ingrown nails, as well as excessive removal of the cuticle meant to protect the nails. Unsightly discolored or yellowish nails may be caused by nail polish stain, but it can also signal a fungal infection. Moreover, horizontal ridges across the nails, known as Beau’s lines, may stem from an illness or injury. In addition, dents or pits on the surface of the nail may also be linked to skin problems including psoriasis. “Discoloration, changes in color or thickness, swelling of the finger or toe, separation of the nail from the nail bed, and pain require medical evaluation, especially if the condition worsens over time or does not resolve on their own. This is particularly crucial for individuals diagnosed with systemic diseases like diabetes, kidney disease and other conditions that may affect wound healing,” Lim adds. Lim also notes that such changes may also be related to other illnesses such as anemia, thyroid problems, and issues with circulation. “While we cannot diagnose a health issue just by basing it on the changes in one’s nail appearance, it can serve as a starting point for further assessment by a medical professional.” Regular manicures with gel nails and nail art can also affect nail health, the MakatiMed doctor stresses. This is primarily due to the cocktail of chemicals in nail products, the nail’s exposure to the UV curing lamps, and the application and removal processes of the extensions and gems that can weaken the natural nail plate over time.

SOME TIPS FOR NAIL HEALTH

LIM underlines that taking care of your nails should go beyond the regular sessions you have with your go-to nail technician. It is important to maintain proper hygiene and habits to keep your nails strong and healthy, especially if you love wearing nail art designs. “Make sure that our nails are always kept clean and dry to avoid bacteria and fungi from growing as they thrive in moist environments. A good practice is to use a non-fragrant, mild cleanser and to always dry our hands after being exposed to water 0r chemicals,” Lim states. “Avoid frequent handwashing and nail-biting and picking, as well as using your nails as tools like opening hard containers. When handling chemicals, wear gloves as a precautionary measure.” Finally, Lim strongly advises going bare. “Give your nails a break from all the buffing and chemical and UV exposure. Allotting recovery time after treatments can reduce risks of long-term damage that may be harder to reverse—or worse, cause permanent damage.”

EPTEMBER has always felt like Grandparents Month to me. With Grandparents Day celebrated in September, it is a wonderful reminder to honor the people who often love us in a way that is uniquely their own—our grandparents. As I was reviewing and working on my personal autobiography, which I hope to someday leave to my future grandchildren, I realized how much of my childhood story was actually about my “grands.” I wrote: “My childhood is a gift of sorts. I had many people who loved me. First is my grand aunt, Sa ko po, who sat down with me each night and each morning because my memory was as poor as an 80-year-old’s, at age 4. I had a grandfather whom I often called papa when I was young.... “I was lucky to have relatives who always believed I could be better...I had a maternal grandmother who told me to become a lawyer and beauty queen in one lifetime. And of course, my paternal grandmother who cared for us each day—from us leaving on time for school and having a hearty breakfast each day.” Reading my own words made me realize how many lines belonged to Angkong, Sa ko po, Amah and my Amah Inang. Perhaps it was because their love provided me with something I needed as a child. Amid family dynamics I did not always understand, these were people who made me feel safe, valued and loved. Recently, my Amah Inang, my maternal grandmother passed away. I am deeply grateful for the relationship we shared. In my little heart, hers was the voice telling me: “Dream high. Be beautiful always. But remember, you are first a Mom and a Wife, so succeed, still, by respecting these dynamics.” I remember her reminding me of this after I had my firstborn. Spending time with her always left me feeling empowered by her presence and her dreams for me. She valued physical beauty, too. I was super boyish and constantly had bruises on my legs. From Camarines Norte, she would send pails of seawater to help lessen my scars. Meanwhile, she was always beautifully made-up and dressed, usually completed by a pretty scarf. What impressed me most was how fiercely she protected her family, especially her grandchildren. Maybe that was why I loved spending time with her and my cousins, especially Cons and Aldrich. In my world of expected academic achievement, they were my safe refuge of another side of me—great listening ears mixed with unexpected escapades. Amah Inang’s annual birthday parties and our holiday visits to Regina Condominium, named after

her, remain happy memories. She never forgot her annual angpao for my children or our box of fruits every Christmas, even up to today. Faith was also important to her. She supported the Church and the priests within and outside her community. During one visit when I was in my late 30s, she gave me a gold-colored Sto. Niño. That’s why I wanted to stay in the Philippines after college because I wanted my own children to experience grandparents as part of everyday life. I remember Papa, my father-in-law, calling Meagan every day when she was a baby. He and my very loving mother-in-law would visit, play “What’s your order?” with her, and quietly sneak away because they feared Meagan would become sad seeing them leave. Then of course, there were the trips and countless mahjong sessions with my Dad. These seemingly ordinary moments become our children’s extraordinary memories. They become their totem poles of values and love that they will look back to, especially when they face their hard moments in life. Studies on intergenerational relationships have associated meaningful grandparent-grandchild engagement with greater happiness and resilience among older adults. More recent research also found that grandparents who were more socially and emotionally engaged with grandchildren reported less loneliness and more positive emotional

experiences. The relationship can therefore be a gift going both ways. But today’s reality is challenging. Everyone’s schedules are full. So maybe we need to become more intentional about creating moments rather than waiting for them to happen. My simple suggestion this Grandparents Month is to prepare a “Grand Play Bag.” Fill a basket or bag with portable art materials, puzzles, or simple games. During Sunday lunch or family gatherings, let a child and grandparent pick something to do together. A preschooler can color with Lola. A grade-schooler can do crafts with Lolo. Teenagers can play games with their grandparents. Put the phones away for a while—to Talk. Laugh. Create. Listen to stories. Play can become our family’s “one solution”: an activity for the child, a source of engagement for the grandparent, a break for parents, and most importantly, a bridge for meaningful conversation across generations. Today, I am profoundly grateful for my “Grands,” especially my Amah Inang. Their love became part of who I am. I am equally grateful that my children have collected their own precious memories with their grandparents. We cannot stop our parents from growing older. But while they are here, let’s all build “Grand-er” memories together today.

MOBILITY TESTS CAN TELL DOCTORS A LOT ABOUT HOW YOU’RE AGING, BUT THERE ARE MANY OTHER FACTORS By Devi Shastri The Associated Press HAND grip strength. Balance tests. Standing up from a seated position on the floor. These physical challenges are often touted as measurements of healthy aging and even predictors of longevity. They can provide valuable indications of your stamina and strength. They can estimate the risk of falls, which increase older adults ‘ risk of death. And they’re useful to doctors who work to address aging or people with injuries. But they’re no crystal ball. “A poor or declining result is a reason for a health professional to investigate why function is changing, rather than gauging how long someone will live,” said Auriel Willette, an expert on brain aging at Rutgers University. Here’s a look at what mobility tests entail and how to apply the results to your health: A sit-to-stand test goes viral, but what does it really show? “Sit-to-stand” tests come in several forms. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s 30-second chair-stand test is designed for patients older than 60, to see how many times they can stand up in that time period. Another test, popularized on social media, asks someone to move from standing, to sitting crosslegged on the ground, and then back up to standing. Making your way down to the floor is worth 5 points, as is standing up, for a total score of 10. You lose a point for each support you use (such as a hand or knee) and half a point if you’re unsteady. The score is zero if

you’re unable to sit or stand without external help. Doctors said they haven’t seen the test used with older US adults, but researchers in Brazil published studies in 2020 and 2025 that concluded middleaged people who scored higher were less likely to die within about a decade. Many American doctors use a test called “Timed Up and Go,” or TUG. It requires the patient to get up from a chair, walk 10 feet (3 meters) and come back to their seat. That allows doctors to evaluate a person’s balance, mobility and lower extremity strength all at once. Dr. George Hennawi, who treats older adults at MedStar Health in Baltimore, said all the tests are meant to pinpoint specific weaknesses and narrow down their underlying cause, whether that’s knee pain, slow reflexes, poor balance or feeling winded or dizzy because of cardiovascular issues. “The key to react to it is to understand where did we not do well,” he said. A full picture of a person’s health is important. Tests like the viral sit-to-stand one are what doctors call screening tools. They’re helpful in narrowing down issues, but they don’t provide enough information for a full diagnosis. Other popular tests for a person’s “physiological age,” or how your body is aging, include tests of grip strength, walking speed, gait steadiness and balance. Such tests look at how hard your hand can squeeze something, whether you favor one side while walking, how long and well can you stand on one leg and how far forward can you reach without becoming unsteady.

Many doctors also use these challenges to understand a person’s risk for “frailty,” a medical condition that means the body is less able to handle strain from illness or injury. Doctors sometimes use a 10-minute assessment called the Short Physical Performance Battery, which includes several tests including gait, balance and strength. It was developed by the National Institute on Aging and large clinical trials have shown it predicts mortality, disability and more. At the University of California, Los Angeles’ Multidisciplinary Falls Clinic, Dr. David Lee said it’s important to look across multiple tests in combination. Grip strength, for example, is predictive of many different things, but it can be affected by arthritis, stroke or even simply not conditioning those muscles. “It’s one measure of many,” Lee said. Good health is about more than a good score. Experts note that strength and mobility are just one part of healthy aging. Tests of cognition, memory, hearing, eyesight and many other measures are key to evaluating how someone is aging. They also cautioned against training to pass a test. Instead, keep the big picture in mind. Exercise your whole body. Eat nutritious meals. Address stress in a healthy way. Prioritize your sleep. Take care of your heart. Finally, experts said it’s important to know the context in which a test has been studied and verified. If it’s shown to predict an outcome for one age group, the performance standards won’t necessarily apply to others.

Thursday, September 10, 2026 • www.businessmirror.com.ph

Manila court convicts 3 linked to Degamo massacre in Negros

By Joel R. San Juan

@jrsanjuan1573

HE Department of Justice (DOJ) on Wednesday announced that the Regional Trial Court in Manila has convicted three individuals for illegal possession of firearms, explosives and ammunition in connection with the killing of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo and several others in March 2023. Convicted in separate cases were Joric Garrido Labrador, Joven Calibjo Javier, and Benjie Rodriguez. The Regional Trial Court in Manila found Labrador guilty beyond reasonable doubt of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition under Section 28 of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive

Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, and sentenced him to a minimum jail term of eight years to 10 years as maximum. Rodr ig uez and Ca libjo, on the other hand, were found guilty of unlawful possession of explosives under Section 3 of Presidential Decree 1866, as amended by R A 9516.

They were both sentenced to reclusion perpetua or imprisonment of up to 40 years by the court. It may be recalled that on May 4, 2023, a group of armed men attacked Degamo’s residence in Pamplona, Negros Oriental, during an aid distribution activity. Degamo was killed in the incident, along with nine others, while dozens were wounded. Police authorities were immediately notified of the shooting incident and conducted a pursuit operation against those involved in the shooting. These resulted in the recovery of a caliber .45 pistol, two magazines, 14 rounds of live ammunition, and two hand grenades from the three accused. The trial court upheld the validity of the warrantless arrests, ruling that the circumstances formed a continuous sequence of events from the shooting, closedcircuit television camera footage review, and pursuit of the getaway vehicles, which determined that

the recovered items were properly identified and their handling was sufficiently established through the testimonies of the police officers and other witnesses. Acting Justice Secretary Fredderick A. Vida has welcomed the court decision while stressing that “impunity should never triumph over justice.” “We shall hold accountable anyone who transgresses the rule of law,” Vida added. Former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr., who has been accused of masterminding the Degamo’s killing. He is c u r rent ly det a ined at t he Nat iona l Bu reau of Invest igat ion ( NBI ) detent ion fac i l it y in t he Bu reau of Cor rections compound in Muntinlupa wh i le u ndergoing t r i a l for 10 counts of murder and 13 counts of f r ust rated mu rder. Teves escaped abroad after the incident and was tracked down in Timor Leste, which extradited him after a lengthy process.

Nlex San Simon, Tulaoc portions fully reopened

LL three lanes in both d irect ions of t he Sa n Simon Interchange and Tu laoc section of the Nor th Luzon Ex pressway (Nlex) reopened to all vehicle types at 8:50 a.m. on Tuesday, ending more than a week of flood-driven c losu res t hat had made t he expressway’s Pampanga corridor a chokepoint. With the lanes restored, the toll rebate granted to motorists on the San Fernando–Pulilan stretch was lifted at 12:01 p.m. on Wednesday, North Luzon Expressway Corp. Said in a statement. The temporary toll exemption for provincial buses stays in force, however. The reopening followed what the tollway operator described as “sustained f lood mitigation and clearing work ” undertaken with its government and private sector partners.

“These efforts helped restore all lanes in the affected sections, allowing the resumption of normal traffic operations,” the company said. Nlex said it is continuing f lood mitigation measures at the site, including the dredging of the Tulaoc River and clearing and improvement works along the Nlex embankment, to improve water f low and help temper f looding in the area. The rebate now being withdrawn was put in place at the direction of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) while f looding persisted. It took effect at noon on September 2 and covered both northbound and southbound passages on the San Fernando–Pulilan stretch, with credits applied to a motorist’s radio frequency identification (Rfid) account the day after the toll passage. Regular toll on the Pulilan–

San Fernando route is P113 for Class 1 vehicles, P281 for Class 2 and P338 for Class 3. The closures traced back to days of habagat, or southwest monsoon, rains that pushed the Pampanga and Tulaoc rivers over their banks, sending water onto Nlex and the parallel McArthur Highway and overwhelming the area’s ability to discharge it. Traffic backed up worst at the Tulaoc Bridge in San Simon, with the southbound queue stretching close to eight kilometers at its peak on September 1. Earlier Public Works Secretary Vivencio Dizon laid out a three-part fix for the section: Blocking the inf lows feeding the expressway and inspecting breaches along the Pampanga River, deepening the trench beside Nlex with the operator’s help to increase its holding capacity, and installing pumps to move

water off the highway and out to the waterway. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has also been deploying sandfilled f lood barriers sourced from Italy to replace the sandbags stacked along the section. Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), which owns and operates Nlex, has separately committed to raise the northbound and southbound pavements at Tulaoc once the elevation of the Tulaoc Bridge is finished, a step it has framed as the permanent answer to recurring flooding on the San Simon segment. Nlex said it will keep working with its government and private sector partners to help ensure the safety and accessibility of motorists and to support f lood mitigation efforts in the area and in affected communities. Lorenz S. Marasigan

PHILIPPINE sailfin lizard (Hydrosaurus pustulatus). COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG

DENR arrests 55 wildlife traders, saves more than 300 wild fauna By Jonathan L. Mayuga @joveemarie

HE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Wednesday reported the arrest of a total of 55 illegal wildlife traders and the confiscation of over 300 wild fauna between January and August this year, in 77 successful operations. “Protec ting our wildlife requires sustained and decisive enforcement,” Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna said in a statement. “Through sustained enforcement, strengthened coordination, proper investigation and case preparation, we remain committed to ensuring that violations of our wildlife laws are addressed and that our country’s wildlife resources are protected.” The department continues to coordinate with the National Police (PNP), Bureau of Customs (BOC), local governments, and other concerned agencies in detecting and addressing wildlife trafficking and other illegal activities. Under Republic Act 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, the collection, hunting, possession, transport, and sale of wildlife without the required permits or authority are prohibited. The law provides penalties for violations, with heavier penalties for offenses involving threatened and critically endangered species. In a sweeping crackdown on wildlife trafficking from January to August of this year, the DENR seized 339 illegally traded animals and exotic species across the country. The haul included 220 birds, 97 reptiles, 31 amphibians, and nine specimens each of mammals, arachnids, and insects. Feathered species made up nearly twothirds of the total confiscations, with parrot varieties—such as cockatoos, cockatiels, and macaws—dominating seizures in the Visayas and Mindanao. Meanwhile, the Central Luzon and Cagayan Valley regions accounted for the bulk of confiscations of lovebirds, which are common in many households. Reptiles formed the second-largest group, comprising 79 lizards—primarily iguanas and geckos—and 17 snakes, including venomous vipers and pythons.

Notable regional busts included the interception of a total of 15 iguanas in Central Visayas in separate enforcement activities, while DENR agents at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport thwarted separate shipments containing 60 dried geckos and 50 endangered radiated tortoises. Operations targeting rarer exotic species also yielded results: n DENR Soccsksargen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City) arrested a trader carrying two bearcats (binturong) and four gibbons, and n DENR Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) intercepted nine tarantulas across five different species.

In 2025, the regions reported the confiscation of 976 heads of wildlife, which included 243 snakes, 159 lizards, five heads of the Visayan leopard cat or maral, as well as a Philippine palm civet or alamid, sugar gliders, five species of scorpions, and at least 394 millipedes. Beyond wildlife confiscations, DENR Naia personnel seized nearly 7,000 orchids and 255 tropical plants last year. The plants were turned over to the DENR-Metro Manila nursery in Quezon City for care while legal investigations remain ongoing. Since 2025, the Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) recorded 62 apprehendees—45 in 2025 and 17 in 2026—while regions across Mindanao reported a combined total of 36. The department urged the public to help protect Philippine wildlife by reporting suspected illegal collection, possession, sale, or trafficking of wild animals, including those being offered or traded. Reports may be sent through the social media accounts of the nearest DENR regional office, via email at actioncenter@denr.gov.ph, by calling or messaging 0939-9180169 or 0939-9380876, or through the government’s 8888 Citizens’ Complaint Hotline. “Wildlife protection is a shared responsibility, but the DENR will continue to strengthen enforcement and work with our law-enforcement partners and the public to protect our wildlife and ensure that our environmental laws are effectively implemented,” Cuna said.

Cebu businessmen call for long-term, coordinated solution to power woes By Carmel Pedroza

E B U C I T Y— Ce b u’s b u s i n e s s sector is calling for a long-term and coordinated solution to the province’s worsening power situation, warning that recurring rotational brownouts are already disrupting operations, raising production costs and putting consumer prices at risk. Mark Anthony Ynoc, immediate past president of the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), said the power interruptions are having a serious impact on businesses, particularly in Mandaue City, which he described as an industrial hub of the southern Philippines. The rotational brownouts are affecting manufacturing equipment and production, Ynoc said, while businesses that turn to generators to keep operations running are forced to absorb additional costs. “Anything you do with power, anything you do with fuel … that affects the supply chain increases the consumer cost,” Ynoc

said in an interview after the Cebu Economic Forum on Tuesday. He said the business community is particularly concerned that higher power and fuel costs could further push up prices at a time when businesses and households are already facing other economic pressures, including a looming wage increase and uncertainties arising from the continuing conflict in the Middle East. For Ynoc, the power crisis cannot be addressed merely as a short-term problem. He called for closer coordination among the Department of Energy (DOE), Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) to develop a sustainable power system covering the entire chain – from generation and transmission to distribution. “We need to see the transmission development plan at full display,” Ynoc said, pointing out that adding new power plants would not immediately solve the problem if there is insufficient infrastructure to connect them to the grid. He said the business sector hopes to

see stakeholders sit down together and work out a long-term solution, adding that businesses are trying to avoid a situation where Cebu could be “spending Christmas in the dark.” Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industr y (CCCI) President Regan Rex King, likewise, acknowledged that the power situation is already affecting businesses and said stable electricity is crucial to attracting new investments to the province. “We need power stability,” King said, stressing that reliable electricity is directly connected to Cebu’s goal of becoming a stronger investment hub. King said the provincial government is expected to convene stakeholders on October 7 to seriously discuss the power situation and possible solutions. He emphasized that resolving the issue would require the participation of government agencies, local governments and the private sector. “If we all work together, the power can be resolved,” King said. He added that stable

power would mean more opportunities for investors to come to Cebu.

Coping

BUSINESSES are already taking steps to cope with the rotational brownouts, according to King. Some establishments have shortened or adjusted their working hours based on announced brownout schedules. Others are turning to solar energy as an alternative source of power. King said he has seen a spike in demand for solar installations as businesses seek greater stability, although he stressed that these measures are only short-term solutions. “The long-term solution is really for Cebu to add more base load here, stable power sources,” he said. He appealed to investors to consider investing in power generation in Cebu, saying the province’s growing economy requires additional and reliable sources of electricity. King said some power plants with a

combined capacity of around 450 megawatts are expected to return to service by October after undergoing maintenance. However, he cautioned that their return does not necessarily guarantee that Cebu will be completely free from power shortages. Cebu continues to rely partly on the spot market to augment its power supply, while other areas in the Visayas and Mindanao are also experiencing power shortages, he noted. The simultaneous maintenance of several power plants has also highlighted the need for better planning, King said. He expressed hope that power providers would learn from the current situation and stagger maintenance schedules in the future to prevent multiple plants from being unavailable at the same time. The power situation could also have a delayed effect on production costs and inflation, King said. While the impact on businesses may not immediately be reflected in prices, he said higher operating costs could eventually filter through the economy.

He pointed to Cebu’s rising inflation rate and the continuing challenge of keeping the cost of basic goods and necessities manageable for households. The issue is particularly significant as Cebu seeks to attract more investors, King said, noting that an investment hub cannot thrive without adequate and reliable power. He said the ongoing economic forum provides an opportunity to make both investors and the public more aware of the province’s challenges and the steps needed to address them. For the business sector, the goal of making Cebu an investment destination must be matched by concrete preparations, including ensuring reliable power. King said the private sector cannot accomplish this alone and needs the support of the provincial and local governments in bringing Cebu’s concerns to the national government. The business community’s message, he said, remains clear: Cebu must prepare itself to support the investments it hopes to attract.