House elects Isabela scion as Speaker
By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE House of Representa-
tives on Wednesday elected a scion of the powerful Isabela political clan, 6th District Rep. Faustino “Bojie” Dy III, as the new Speaker of the 20th Congress, succeeding Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, who stepped down from the post.
Dy, the lone candidate for the chamber’s highest post, was elected with 253 votes, while 28 lawmakers abstained. No one voted against, and four did not cast their votes.
Related story in A3 Nation.
Dy was nominated by Quezon
City Rep. Ralph Tulfo and seconded by Isabela Rep. Tonypet Albano.
“Our duty is not to protect each other—our duty is to protect the Filipino people,” said Dy.
The newly elected House speaker pledged to restore public trust in the House of Representatives by pushing budget reforms, ensuring transparency, and addressing corruption in questionable flood control projects.
Dy acknowledged the public’s frustration over recent controversies involving government funds and appealed for a chance to set things right.
“Let me be the first to tell our fellow citizens: we have shortcom-
ings. We humbly admit this. We ask that you give us the chance to correct the wrong practices and to clean up our ranks. We ask that you give us the opportunity to regain your trust,” he said.
The Speaker vowed that under his leadership, the House would not tolerate corruption or impunity, would cooperate fully with the Independent Commission of Infrastructure, and would ensure that all investigations are open and impartial.
Dy stressed that “this House will change. I will not defend the guilty. I will not shield the corrupt.
Gaya ng paninindigan ng ating Pangulo [like our President’s stand]—
no rank, no ally, no office will be spared from accountability. We must strengthen the Oversight Committee and fully cooperate with the Independent Commission of Infrastructure. Our duty is not to protect each other—our duty is to protect the Filipino people.”
On budget reforms, Dy said Congress would work together to align the national budget with the people’s needs. He vowed to make the budget process more open and inclusive.
Romualdez’s resignation ROMUALDEZ announced his resignation as leader of the House of
PHL BREAKS INTO TOP 50
INNOVATION INDEX
It marked an improvement from 53rd out of 133 economies in 2024 and a recovery from its slide to 59th in 2022. The country last reached the 50th spot in 2020, after which it fluctuated before gradually climbing back. The ranking, published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), exceeded the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) target of 52nd place for the year. The Philippines also remained third among lower middle-income economies and 11th among 17 economies in Southeast Asia, East Asia,
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
RTIFICIAL Intelli-
Agence (AI) can increase exports of goods and services by nearly 40 percent by 2040, but this depends on an economy’s improvements in digital infrastructure, according to the World Trade Organization (WTO). In her speech at the launch of the 2025 World Trade Report, WTO Director General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said this was what the WTO simulations suggested. However, the WTO report stressed that access to artificial intelligence (AI) is “highly unequal” and limits the ability of many economies, including
lower middle-income countries, to participate in AI-driven trade.
“Rapid advances in artificial intelligence [AI] are transforming the world economy, reshaping how work is defined, how value is created and how opportunities are distributed across societies,” the WTO chief said.
Given these “far-reaching” effects, Okonjo-Iweala said AI is also transforming world trade.
In this report, Okonjo-Iweala raised the question of how AI “can serve as a catalyst for inclusive trade-led growth, or whether it could end up widening divides between and within economies.”
The report explained that AI presents new opportunities to reduce trade costs and expand
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
CONGRESS could reallocate next year’s P255.5-billion budget for locally-funded flood control projects to other priority sectors and projects, using the “menu” provided by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. On the sidelines of the Government Experience Exchange Forum between the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday, Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said the proposed P6.793-trillion national budget for 2026 will be at the same level.
But with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) requesting to remove next year’s P255.5-billion allocation for flood control projects, Pangandaman said
the funding could be reallocated to other projects. See related story in A4 Economy, “DPWH recommends reduction of budget.”
“We’re hopeful that they will use the menu that our President presented,” Pangandaman said.
The “menu” contains valuable projects in other priority sectors. Among these are in the education sector, such as the construction of laboratory buildings, student dormitories, academic buildings, as well as basic education facilities, textbooks and laptops.
Farm-to-market roads, postharvest facilities, cold storage expansion projects, fish ports and irrigation dams could also be funded under the agriculture sector. Health programs, such as the Health Facilities Enhancement Program, Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated
Patients (MAIP), as well as the provision of medicines, could also be allotted some budget. There are also programs and projects under housing; information, communications and technology; labor; social; and energy, in the menu.
As to the implication of the reduction of DPWH’s budget to the country’s economic growth, Pangandaman said the impact is “small. Not that big.”
For 2026, the government plans to spend P1.558 trillion for infrastructure, which will account for 5.1 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
“So, if that is reduced in the DPWH, we still have other infrastructure projects that are still moving. As long as other projects are done, like our school buildings, hospitals, the infrastructure projects to
support our agri sector, among others, I hope that will continue,” Pangandaman said.
Infrastructure spending in the second quarter was weighed down by the contraction in April and May, even as the spending momentum recovered in June.
Infrastructure spending remained nearly the same in the first half of the year at P720.3 billion from P718 billion in the same period a year ago. Public construction also declined by 8.2 percent year-on-year, attributed mainly to the unintended effects of the election ban.
“Maybe, let’s first look at what will happen to the budget deliberations. Once the GAA [General Appropriations Act] is passed, we’ll k now what the effect will be,” she
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
WALL OF SHAME A controversial flood
project
seen in Purok 7, Palapat, Hagonoy, Bulacan,
NONOY LACZA
LEYTE Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez. JOVEE MARIE N. DELA CRUZ
added, noting the impact of the reduced budget on the government’s i nfrastructure program.
‘Budget process on track’ THE Budget chief also assured the public that the budget process will remain on track, as lawmakers will follow the budget calendar despite the recent changes in leadership.
Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Wednesday resigned as Speaker of the House of Representatives, saying he was doing so to allow full accountability and transparency in the wake of controversies hounding infrastructure projects.
(See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2025/09/17/leyte-rep-ferdinand-martin-g-romualdez-has-resigned-as-speaker-of-the-house/).
“Even in the Senate, they also made a change, but they still went through the calendar,” Pangandaman noted.
E-governance, mining fiscal reform, lease laws hailed
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
FOREIGN
chambers of business in the country said Wednesday three recently enacted laws will encourage investors to make a stake in the country and help grow the economy.
“By promoting interoperability, streamlining processes, and expanding online access, the law will reduce red tape, increase efficiency, and improve transparency,” the foreign chambers said.
Another reform, the Investor’s Lease Act, extends the maximum allowable lease period to 99 years and creates a “more secure and predictable” leasehold system.
mining sector.”
By simplifying tax policies and establishing a fair and transparent fiscal framework, the law is designed to attract responsible mining investments that can help further develop the country’s “vast” mineral resources.
and Oceania, unchanged from last year.
In 2025, the country ranked 59th in innovation inputs—resources, institutions and investments that drive innovation—and 49th in innovation outputs, which measure results such as knowledge, technology, and creative goods. Both represented improvements from 67th and 53rd, respectively, in 2024.
Continued from A18
and have plenty or artisanal or small fishing outfits.
Moreover, the former Tariff chief said:
“The agreement also has provisions to protect the seas from overfishing, particularly subsidized fishing. Of course, the Philippines should also have discipline in providing subsidies to its shipping fleets.”
Manzano underscored, however, that “While it looks good on paper, the challenge is enforcement but at least the legal provisions favor the Philippines and other smaller countries.”
The E-Governance Act, Enhanced Fiscal Region for Large-Scale Metallic Mining Act and the amendments to the Investor’s Lease Act signal the government’s “strong commitment” to unlocking the country’s economic potential, Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce (JFC) said in a statement on Wednesday. Passage of the “landmark” reforms, they added, will foster a “more stable, predictable, and competitive” business environment.
Explaining the impact of each reform, the JFC said the E-Governance Act which establishes a framework for the digital transformation of government services, will help enhance the ease of doing business in the Philippines.
Think tank revives Spratly…
Continued from A18
The shoal remains a flashpoint in the West Philippine Sea, with frequent standoffs between Chinese and Philippine vessels.
“This reform gives foreign investors the long-term certainty needed for major investments, making the Philippines more attractive for foreign businesses seeking to invest, expand operations, and create jobs,” the chambers noted.
Meanwhile, it said the Enhanced Fiscal Regime for LargeScale Metallic Mining Act introduces “clarity, consistency, and predictability for investors in the
Reefs in crisis
THE UP CIDS paper outlines a grim ecological outlook for the Spratly Islands: Fisheries collapse: Biomass levels in 2016 were down to 30 percent of 1997 levels, with few mature fish left to reproduce.
• Destructive harvesting: Giant clam cutters and coral poachers have caused massive damage, including the disappearance of rare species like the purplish-red organ pipe coral in Scarborough Shoal.
• Reclamation and dredging: Artificial island-building has damaged an estimated 14 square kms of reef. Satellite imagery shows sediment clouds smothering coral ecosystems, forcing surviving corals to expend energy clearing themselves.
Organic pollution: Waste from militarized outposts adds further stress to already fragile reef systems.
Despite these pressures, the Spratlys remain ecologically vital. Long-term studies and genetic connectivity analyses confirm that the islands serve as a key source of coral and fish larvae that replenish reefs across Southeast Asia—from the Philippines to Malaysia, Taiwan, and Japan.
Marine Peace Park
ORIGINALLY proposed in 1994, the marine peace park concept aims to protect reef integrity and ensure fisheries sustainability. The paper recommends a treaty framework modeled after the 1957 Antarctic Treaty and the 1985 Torres Strait Treaty, emphasizing: Peaceful use and demilitarization of the Spratlys International scientific cooperation and data sharing No new territorial claims, while preserving existing ones
According to the foreign business groups, this new framework “brings the Philippines closer to international best practices, including the promotion of clean and sustainable mining practices, while also ensuring that government and local communities receive equitable revenue shares.”
At a time of rising global demand for critical minerals, the foreign chambers said the law positions the Philippines as a “competitive and responsible supplier.”
• C ivilian-only occupation for claimant states Gu aranteed freedom of navigation and innocent passage Such a framework, the authors argue, could defuse tensions while safeguarding biodiversity.
Geopolitical roadblocks
THE paper acknowledges steep diplomatic challenges:
C hina’s position: With sweeping claims over 80 percent of the Philippine EEZ and a preference for bilateral negotiations, China is unlikely to support a multilateral treaty.
• Taiwan’s support: Taiwan backs reef conservation and the marine park proposal, but its limited international recognition complicates participation.
A sean fragmentation: Territorial disputes, such as Malaysia’s and the Philippines’ overlapping claims in Sabah, hinder a unified regional stance.
Still, the authors cite successful transboundary conservation efforts—such as the PhilippinesVietnam Joint Oceanographic and Marine Scientific Research Expedition in the South China Sea (JOMSRE-SCS) and the UNEP/GEF-funded coral reef project—as proof that regional collaboration is possible.
“Permanent damage to the reefs by reclamation for military bases, which is estimated at around 14 km2, dredging and destructive coral and giant clam harvesting will have catastrophic consequences for the food security of all claimant states, including China,” the UP paper warns.
The authors urge Asean nations to lead a unified push for a binding international agreement, arguing that global support could pressure China to reconsider its unilateral actions. They assert that the marine peace park remains a viable solution—if regional stakeholders can demonstrate the political will to cooperate.
This year, the country recorded short-term gains in eight indicators, while two declined. By comparison, only four indicators improved in 2024. WIPO noted that the Philippines continues to perform above expectations for its level of economic development, producing more innovation outputs relative to its inputs. The country’s strongest showing was in knowledge and technology outputs, where it rose to 38th from 42nd last year. Business sophistication followed at 40th, though slightly lower than its 37th-place finish in 2024. Human capital and research slid to 90th from 84th, while infrastructure advanced to 65th from 85th. Institutions and creative outputs both ranked 61st, replacing market sophistication, which was among the weakest in 2024. Compared with its income peers, the Philippines performs above the lower middle-income group average across all pillars of the GII, and outpaces the regional average in knowledge and technology outputs.
However, scores across specific pillars were mixed. Institutions slipped from 51.94 in 2023 to 47.23 in 2024, while human capital and research edged higher to 26.15 from 24.74. Infrastructure declined sharply to 34.29 from 42.45, and market sophistication dropped the most, falling to 29.69 from 40. Business sophistication was nearly flat at 36.69 from 36.44. Knowledge and technology outputs inched down to 28.66 from 29.64, while creative outputs also eased to 26.24 from 26.51.
Top-ranked strengths for the Philippines include high-technology exports, which placed first worldwide as a share of total trade, high-technology imports (4th), and utility models by origin relative to GDP (7th). Under the PDP, the country is aiming to climb to 49th in 2026. By 2028, the goal is to reach 43rd.
participation in global markets, especially for small companies. In the context of reducing trade costs, the WTO report said AI tools are already “enhancing” trade efficiency by improving visibility within supply chains, automating customs clearance, reducing language barriers, strengthening market intelligence, improving contract enforcement and helping firms, including micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to navigate complex regulations. While the AI is already changing the way people trade goods, the WTO chief highlighted that the gains from AI “will not automatically be widely shared between and within economies.”
For one, Okonjo-Iweala said, WTO simulations show that without substantial improvements in digital infrastructure and AI uptake, low-income economies would see a modest 8-percent real income growth from AI, while high-income countries register double-digit increases.
“But narrowing digital and AI divides could almost double the GDP gains for low-income economies, to 15 percent, without substantially changing growth prospects in higher-income economies. In other words, inclusiveness is possible, and win-win scenarios are on the tablebut it all requires deliberate action,” the WTO chief also noted.
In fact, the 2025 WTO-International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) survey results show that only 41 percent of small firms report using AI compared to over 60 percent of large firms.
“Among low-income and lower middle-income economies, fewer than one-third of firms use AI,” the WTO report pointed out.
Resignation not a shield from investigation–Palace
By Samuel Medenilla @sam_medenilla
FORMER Speaker Martin
Romualdez will not be spared from accountability if evidence links him to anomalies in flood control projects, Malacañang said on Wednesday, stressing that resignation or a change in congressional leadership will not shield him from investigation.
NBI’s ₧2.4 billion headquarters being built by Discaya firms, Santiago to investigate
NATIONAL Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Jaime Santiago on Wednesday said he would look into the P2.4 billion construction of the agency’s headquarters which is being undertaken by the construction companies controlled by spouses Cezarah and Pacifico Discaya.
Santiango made the announcement during the launch of the task force officially created by the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Wednesday to investigate alleged corruption and bidrigging in government infrastructure developments, particularly floodcontrol projects.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro made the statement amid rumblings in the House of Representatives about a possible change in leadership, fueled in part by Romualdez’s name being mentioned in connection with the infrastructure mess.
A few hours after Castro made the statement, Romualdez resigned the speakership.
“Mag -resign o hindi siya magresign, maaari pa rin siyang maimbestigahan [Whether he resigns or not, he can still be investigated],”
Castro said.
She added that if Romualdez does step down, it would be acceptable if his reason is to preserve the integrity of Congress and allow an open probe.
“At kung masasangkot man ang kaniyang pangalan at may mapapakitang ebidensiya laban sa kaniya, mas magandang ito ay kaniyang depensahan sa pamamagitan ng mga records na maaari niyang ipakita [And if his name is dragged and there is evidence against him, it is best that he defends himself
through records he can present],” she said.
Castro confirmed that President Marcos met with Romualdez, his cousin, in Malacañang on Tuesday evening. However, she did not provide further details of their meeting, which came amid rumors of possible House leadership change.
ICI begins work
CASTRO also said Marcos wants immediate results from the Independent Commission for Infrastructure
Marcos tells newly-promoted generals: Remain
(ICI), which already began work on Tuesday after convening at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) office.
The ICI, chaired by retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Andres Reyes Jr., includes former Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson and Sycip Gorres Velayo (SGV) & Co. Country Managing Partner Rossana Fajardo as members. The body has also started organizing its structure and is set
WProsecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon has been designated as chairman of the task force.
Discayas’ two construction firms identified as St. Gerard Construction General Contractor and Development Corp. and Way Maker OPC, were involved in the project, according to Santiago. He said it was the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) that administered the bidding for the project.
He said the task force will include the construction of the NBI headquarters among the projects that will be investigated for possible anomalies.
See “NBI,” A4
ITH Congress rocked by leadership changes and rumors of destabilization efforts in the anti-corruption rallies linger, President Marcos called on newly promoted military generals and flag officers to remain non-partisan.
“Today is not only a milestone but a renewed pledge that your loyalty remains with the Constitution and the Filipino people,” the Chief Executive said during the oath-taking ceremony of the 40 promoted AFP officials in Malacañang on Wednesday.
In times when the country is faced with challenges such as natural disasters, AFP, he said, should be an organization which the people can depend on.
“We must guard the peace we have gained and deepen our ties with partners who also
envision a freer, more stable region,” Marcos said.
He urged the senior officers to set the example to the people under their command.
On Tuesday, the Palace already called on AFP and other uniformed personnel not to join possible attempts to destabilize the government.
Several groups, including the Church, schools, and transport groups are set to hold their protest on the said day in Metro Manila and other major cities on September 21 to denounce rampant corruption in public works and commemorate the 53rd anniversary declaration of martial law.
Enhanced capability
INSTEAD of being led astray into politicking, the AFP should focus on enhancing its
capabilities by forging more partnerships with other countries, modernizing its infrastructures and pieces of equipment, as well as providing more skills to its members.
“And as your Commander-in-Chief, I call on you to continue to strengthen our presence in the air, on land, and at sea,” Marcos said.
In an interview with Palace reporters, Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro disclosed that they are eyeing the signing of a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) with the United Kingdom (UK), which will provide the legal framework for both countries to conduct joint exercises in each other’s territory.
He said he is now awaiting for a written authorization from the President to push through with the SOVFA negotiations with the UK, which he said will help the
country in enforcing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos) and the 2016 Arbitral Ruling in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). China continues to assert itself in parts of the WPS, which is within the Philippines Exclusive Economic Zone, even after such claims were already invalidated by the 2016 Arbitral Award.
Aside from the Sovfa with the UK, Teodoro said they also have a pending negotiation for a Reciprocal Access Agreement with France. Teodoro said they also proposed a significant increase in the
(PN) for next year to
Grab launches Grab Asenso: A Digital Diskarte Program to accelerate regional MSME digitalization in the Philippines
ANGELES City, Pampanga, Grab today launched Grab Asenso: A Digital Diskarte Program, a nationwide push to speed up the digital shift of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) outside Metro Manila. The program combines a multi-city Learning Caravan with the rollout of mobile-first merchant tools inside the GrabMerchant app, giving entrepreneurs practical skills and plug-and-play infrastructure to grow online.
MSMEs are the backbone of Philippine commerce – 99.59% of all establishments and roughly 65% of jobs – yet many are still early in their digital journey. The country’s shift to cash-lite is now mainstream — 57.4% of retail payments by volume and 59% by value were digital in 2024, driven by QR PH and instant transfers – making merchant readiness urgent for inclusive growth. Supported by the local government units, DICT Regional Office, and Grab merchant-partners, the inaugural leg kicked off in Angeles City and will expand to Cavite, Baguio, Bohol, Dumaguete, Iloilo, Bacolod, and Cagayan de Oro in the coming months.
Grab Philippines Vice President for Cities CJ Lacsican shares, “Progress happens when every entrepreneur, regardless of business size, can fully participate in the digital economy. Grab Asenso goes beyond seminars. We pair hands-on, mobile-based learning with ready-to-use tools–marketing, payments, logistics, and an AIcopilot–-so MSMEs can find consumers, run leaner operations, and scale their business faster. When small businesses thrive, supply chains strengthen, jobs multiply, and local economies become more vibrant and more resilient.”
The Grab Asenso Program has also earned the endorsement of the DICT, with Director of the ICT Industry Development Bureau Emmy Lou Versoza-Delfin underscoring the program’s alignment with the agency’s digital livelihood agenda. “The Department of Information and Communications Technology is deeply honored and excited to be a part of the Grab Asenso Learning Caravan. This initiative is more than just an event; it’s a testament to our shared belief in the power of digital technology to transform lives and build a brighter future for the Philippines. Grab Asenso is a powerful display of digital bayanihan — a modern-day take on our cherished tradition of community cooperation. The DICT and our valued private sector partners like Grab have come together to bridge the digital divide and bring opportunities directly to your doorstep.”
What’s different about Grab Asenso Unlike training-only initiatives or tools-only platforms, Asenso links three essentials in one track: skills + tools + access to demand.
Asenso Learning Caravan: Mobile-First Capacity Building Designed for real-world use on a smartphone, the Caravan delivers
concise modules that MSMEs can apply same-day:
Mobile-First Digital Marketing. Make and measure social posts, promos, and storefront updates directly from a phone; use basic analytics to improve reach and repeat orders.
AI 101 for MSMEs. Work with prompt templates to draft product descriptions, promo captions, menu updates, and basic customer insights in minutes—inside GrabMerchant.
Financial Growth Planning. Use payout data to set weekly targets, track unit economics, and manage cash flow for healthier working capital. This approach addresses the
adoption gap: 77% of Filipino MSMEs want to use more digital tools, but only ~16% actively do so, largely due to skills and perceived complexity—precisely the friction points Asenso removes.
Asenso Tools: Practical Infrastructure Embedded in the Grab Merchant app
Payment Solutions: Tap & Scan To Pay turns any NFC-enabled Android phone or merchant device into a checkout terminal — accepting tap-to-pay cards and QR PH. Quick activation, competitive fees, seamless payouts, and tap-to-reconcile reports help cash-flow discipline. Registered merchants are also automatically enrolled in the Income Protection
Coverage, which safeguards daily revenue against calamity-related disruptions. The rise of merchant QR acceptance and SoftPOS globally underscores the timing. The technology will mark its first pilot rollout in the country in Angeles City starting Q4 2025.
Grab Merchant AI Assistant (BETA) is a built-in AI copilot that suggests actions from context (e.g., “run a rainy-day bundle,” “reorder bestsellers”), and surfaces simple customer trends — with multi-language support to lower the learning curve. Together, these tools lower entry barriers and speed time-toimpact for thin-margin entrepreneurs, helping merchants reach Grab’s highly active user base.
Public-Private Alignment Grab Asenso is a flagship public–private partnership program, designed as a Digital Diskarte Program to accelerate the digitalization of livelihoods and enterprises across the Philippines. Endorsed by agencies like the DICT and local governments, the
Grab Philippines Vice President for Cities CJ Lacsican, together with representatives from the Angeles City LGU, DICT, and the local merchant community, officially launched Grab Asenso: A Digital Diskarte Program. [L–R] Kuya Jeck’s Tapsilogan owner Ronnie Casupanan, DICT Pampanga Provincial Head
Jonathan Solis, Grab PH Regional Manager for Northern Luzon Joe Mangiliman, Angeles City
Mayor Amos Rivera, Grab PH Vice President for Cities CJ Lacsican, Morgen Kaffee owners Miguel and Micaela Evangelista, and Grab PH Country Communications Head Arvi Lopez.
See “Loyal,” A4
See “Resignation,” A9
Thursday, September 18, 2025
DPWH recommends reduction of budget
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has recommended to Congress the removal of allocations for locally funded flood control projects in the revised 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP) of the agency.
In a letter to the House Committee on Appropriations, Public Works Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon said the agency’s revised proposal amounts to P625.784 billion, down from the originally submitted P881.312 billion, or a cut of P255.258 billion, or 28.99 percent.
The move follows President Marcos’ directive to scrap funding for local flood control projects in the 2026 NEP and instead realign the amount to other priority government programs in health, education, and agriculture. According to Dizon, the main highlight of this revision is the
President’s directive to remove all locally funded flood control projects.
During the budget briefing for DPWH on Wednesday, Dizon said, “A huge chunk of this, almost the entirety of the cut, came from the P252.5 billion originally allocated for locally funded flood control projects.”
Dizon added that the adjustment follows both the President’s instructions and the House Committee on Appropriations’ call to review questionable appropriations.
“We have tried our best to remove duplicate projects, completed projects that still had allocations for 2026, overlapping road projects, and even items like rock netting and cat’s eyes,” he said.
Despite the huge cut, Dizon expressed confidence in the revised budget. “This was in fact unprecedented. I don’t think this
Congressman lauds Customs
plan to ease release of balikbayan boxes
THE chairman of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs on Wednesday strongly backed the Bureau of Customs’ (BOC) plan to create a task force dedicated on addressing issues surrounding balikbayan boxes—an especially pressing concern as the holiday season brings a surge in shipments from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
The House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs chairman, Party-list Rep. Bryan Revilla of Agimat, said that the task force must work to ease the financial strain caused by unclear duties and fees, streamline customs processes
to avoid bottlenecks during peak season, and enforce clear, uniform regulations. Equally important, he said, is accountability so that reforms go beyond announcements and are actually implemented for the benefit of OFWs and their families.
“Every Christmas, balikbayan boxes pour in. But beyond the goods, these boxes carry the love and sacrifices of our fellow Filipinos abroad,” Revilla said. “That’s why the BOC task force is both timely and necessary—to minimize delays, prevent unfair charges, and ensure every pasalubong reaches Filipino homes without added burden.”
PHLPost strengthens workplace safety, accessibility, inclusivity
IN line with its commitment to public service and employee welfare, the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) has implemented new measures that reinforce safety, accessibility, and inclusivity within its facilities.
Acting Postmaster General and Chief Executive Officer Maximo C. Sta. Maria III directed the initiatives, starting with a fire safety drill on September 11, where key postal workers were equipped with both principles and hands-on experience on how to respond effectively to fire-related emergencies.
“This is not just timely, but also a necessity. What we’ll learn today are life skills we can apply not just here but also in our respective communities,” lawyer Lee P. Viceral, Assistant Postmaster General for Management Support Services and Risk Management Committee
“Scammers and abusive forwarders should not only be penalized but also permanently blacklisted. Every balikbayan box represents the hard work and sweat of our OFWs. We cannot allow shipments to rot in warehouses until they expire, especially when these are meant for families who have long been waiting to enjoy the fruits of their loved ones’ sacrifices,” Revilla emphasized.
The lawmaker added that government support for OFWs must extend beyond customs reforms.
He highlighted the Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFW na Nangangailangan
has ever happened before. I think we do have a budget that we can be proud of,” he said, adding, “It is by no means perfect…but we have tried our best to really address a lot of the issues, not only those raised by the President himself, but also by some members of the House of Representatives.”
The DPWH chief emphasized that the fiscal space freed up by the reduction will be redirected to other priorities. “The President’s recommendations to Congress are clear—that the P255 billion reduction be allocated to programs and projects in agriculture, education, health care, housing, labor, social welfare, and information technology,” he said.
“The President himself presented to the public a menu of his recommendations to Congress, where P252.5 billion pesos should be used; this includes the
(Aksyon) Fund Program, which recently held an awarding ceremony in San Pedro City, Laguna. Through the program, 100 OFWs received financial assistance ranging from P50,000 to P100,000, with a total of P9.8 million released. The event, led by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Regional Office IV-A, was attended by San Pedro City Mayor Art Joseph Francis Mercado, Regional Director April Casabuena, and Assistant Regional Director Karen Quilao.
“This is how the government should work—removing obstacles and providing genuine, concrete assistance. The Aksyon Fund and the BOC task force carry the same principle: OFWs deserve transparency, efficiency, and real support from their government,” Revilla said. Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
NGCP on Boracay: Mission accomplished
Tchairman, said as he opened the event.
All areas were also directed to conduct their respective earthquake and fire drills nationwide as part of disaster preparedness activities indicated in the corporation’s Public Service Continuity Plan (PSCP). With recurrent flooding affecting the area especially during heavy rains, PHLPost constructed a pedestrian pathway to ensure uninterrupted access to its premises, allowing the public to avail its services regardless of the weather.
In addition, PHLPost completed installing a ramp for differently-abled persons, making its facilities more inclusive for everyone. It is also exploring the opportunity of hiring more individuals who may be physically challenged but are qualified as part of its workforce.
HE National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) on Wednesday said it has fulfilled its obligation in so far as restoring power in Boracay after the Nabas-Unidos 69-kilovolt (kV) line tripped last week.
The incident led to a power supply disruption to the Unidos-Caticlan-Malay and Unidos-Boracay lines which, in turn, resulted in blackouts in Boracay and neighboring areas on Saturday. Power was restored on Monday.
NGCP spokesperson Cynthia Alabanza said in a news briefing that the incident involved the NGCP’s transmission facilities and the distribution facility of an electric cooperative.
“The transmission portion was energized as early as Saturday, September 13. In terms of NGCP’s obligation for that, we’ve already restored facilities last Saturday. In fact, the bypass line that the distribution utility needed to expedite restoration of power services from their end, NGCP helped them put up that bypass line.
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“Those are needed in order to augment the existing fleet and to prepare also for infrastructure needs in order to receive new ships that were ordered before,” he said.
Under the 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP), the Navy will get P59.38
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The project which had its groundbreaking ceremony on May 30, 2023 during the term of then NBI Director
programs and projects in agriculture, especially the P20 rice program of our President. This also includes education, social services, and the assistance that our government is giving to our countrymen directly. This also includes healthcare services, especially the funding of zero balance billing that our president emphasizes,” he added.
He also noted that while locally funded flood control projects have been scrapped, the government will continue foreign-assisted initiatives. “We have roughly P15.7 billion in foreign-assisted flood control projects funded by loans from ADB [Asian Development Bank], Jica [Japan International Cooperation Agency], and the World Bank. This is what we retained,” Dizon said.
Citing Marcos’ instructions, Dizon underscored the focus on finishing ongoing works instead
of funding new ones. “As our president said, we are already doing something. From 2024 and 2025, let’s finish that first. Let’s fix the ongoing flood control [projects] all over the country. The recommendation of our beloved President is for 2026; let’s start with zero.” The DPWH chief also highlighted the President’s vision: “We will ensure that every peso of the people’s money will be spent well. Based on what the President has repeatedly said, that he wants every peso of the national budget spent for the people, I think what we have done here is really a clear manifestation of that desire.” Dizon said that the resubmitted budget represents a turning p oint in the way the DPWH operates. “To really start changing the way things are done at DPWH, beginning with the submission of the national budget to Congress,” he said.
Flood control project probe will not result in job losses–Dole
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE ongoing investigation of flood-control projects will not trigger widespread job losses, the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) said.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma said on Wednesday that the start of the “ber” months traditionally brings more employment opportunities.
“No because historically, during the ‘ber’ months, there’s an increase [in jobs]... We are more concerned to make sure that as employment rises, these are quality jobs—not just temporary ones,” Laguesma told reporters when asked if corruption investigations could dampen hiring in the industry.
She was referring to the Aklan Electric Cooperative (Akelco).
Alabanza stressed that the blame should not be solely directed to the grid operator.
“As far as we know, it’s really the distribution asset that they haven’t restored yet so they need a bypass line,” she said.
While the completion of NGCP’s NabasCaticlan-Boracay transmission project will strengthen Boracay’s power infrastructure and support the island’s growing demand, Alabanza said this is a separate facility and has nothing to do with the power outage incident.
“The project that would help, but this particular line, it’s on the distribution utility. We’re done. For our part it’s finished. We’ve fixed our portion,” said Alabanza.
The number of tourists that arrived on Boracay from January to August this year reached 1.5 million, 12 percent higher than in the same period a year ago.
According to the Department of Energy (DOE), electricity in Boracay is transmitted via a submarine cable from the mainland. Lenie Lectura
billion, which is higher than its P51 billion budget this year.
Marcos has committed to provide sufficient resources to AFP.
“I know the sacrifices you have made in serving this great nation. Rest assured this Administration will do the best we can to provide you with the resources and benefits so that you can focus on your duty,” Marcos said.
Menardo de Lemos was expected to be finished by 2026.
However, Santiago said the construction of the building has barely progressed.
“I’m not saying something shady happened, but still, we will investigate. It might not get completed, they might
Results from the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) Labor Force Survey (LFS) showed that 4.60 million workers were employed in construction in July.
Based on its subsector data, PSA said construction remained the third-largest source of employment nationwide.
However, it also posted one of the steepest declines—losing 206,000 jobs quarter-on-quarter and 147,000 year-on-year.
Last week, the BusinessMirror reported that workers on construction sites had been in “hanging” status for weeks as the government continues its investigation on anomalies in flood control projects. Their jobs were affected after subcontractors they worked for were blacklisted along with the companies named by President Marcos.
Laguesma said the labor market has proven “resilient” but stressed the need to strengthen futureproofing.
“Our labor force must be agile. If you lose a job here, you should easily be switched, referred to another available job,” he said, noting that new vacancies are posted monthly on the government’s employment portal.
On Tuesday, Dole met with the National Union of Building and Construction Workers (NUBCW)
be using substandard materials,” Santiago explained.
to discuss possible government interventions.
Laguesma said the agency is coordinating with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to identify workers employed in flood-control projects nationwide.
The Labor deparment also requested NUBCW’s help in mapping how many workers were affected.
“Of course, we can’t just tell everyone to line up [for job referral]. That’s why we’re coordinating with organizations,” Laguesma said, adding that referrals are part of DOLE’s long-term commitment. Missing workers, records NUBCW Secretary General Santiago V. Nolla confirmed they are assisting Dole in locating displaced workers, especially since some records are missing.
“The identified 15 contractors [by Malacañang], they [Dole] went to the addresses...When they went there, some could no longer be located. Some had already left, others were unidentified. They really had trouble collecting the data, records to determine how many workers were really affected and where they are now,” Nolla told the BusinessMirror in a telephone interview.
He said the union agreed to use its networks to help track down the affected workers.
“We have no problem helping because that has always been our advocacy—to support workers,” he added.
Nolla said the department has committed that once the workers are identified, they will be referred to the agency’s regional offices for job placement.
“For example, if the workers are in Bulacan, they will immediately be referred to Dole’s district office there. They already have instruction there to immediately process and match with companies looking for workers,” he said.
He also noted that EEI Corporation, an engineering and construction company, has pledged to provide jobs to workers displaced by the continuing probe.
He added that the ongoing controversies over flood control projects involving government officials and private contractors prompted him to check on the NBI building project. When asked if the construction will be suspended, Santiago said he would first have to coordinate with
Secretary Vivencio Dizon once their investigation begins.
50,000 police officers to secure Sept. 21 rallies
By Rex Anthony Naval
THE Philippine National Police (PNP)
announced that it will be deploying around 50,000 police personnel nationwide to secure the orderly conduct of the Sept. 21 anti-corruption protest rally and other similar activities.
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., said this deployment aims to protect rally participants and the general public during the conduct of the event.
“While we respect the right of every Filipino to peacefully express their views, our foremost duty is to protect lives and
property. Our personnel are trained and ready to ensure that the protests remain orderly and safe for everyone,” he said.
Nartatez said deployment includes nearly 10,000 officers in fixed visibility posts, more than 17,000 on mobile patrol operations, another 3,000 to assist traffic, another 9,000 manning checkpoints and border control points, and nearly 6,000 for crowd management, and over 4,500 assigned the Reactionary Standby Support Force, and 415 drone operators.
Nartatez said the PNP will exert all efforts to ensure that the event ends peacefully and orderly.
BuCor pushes bill that grants medical parole for elderly, terminally ill-PDLs
TComelec suspends BARMM elections preparations after Supreme Court TRO
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE countdown to the firstever parliamentary polls in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has hit pause.
This comes after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday suspended all its preparations after the Supreme Court (SC) blocked the new law that redistricted seven seats in the region.
Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia said the en banc had no choice but to comply with the order.
the legality and constitutionality of BAA 77,” Garcia said in an ambush interview.
The TRO, released Tuesday, barred the Comelec, the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), and all persons acting under their authority from enforcing Bangsamoro Autonomy Act (BAA) No. 77 until the case is resolved.
The law amended BAA No. 58 and redistributed seven vacant seats after the SC earlier excluded Sulu from the autonomous region.
had been preparing under BAA 58, which provided only 73 seats. It earlier refused to follow the reallocation under BAA 77, citing “lack of material time,” and planned to leave the reapportionment of the seven seats to the new parliament after the October 13 polls.
The poll body stressed preparations for 73 seats could only proceed if the SC strikes down BAA 77 as unconstitutional, since it already repealed BAA 58.
be held,” he said.
He also admitted the timeline was already too tight.
“Is there still time at this point? It looks like there’s almost none. Let’s admit it, almost three weeks is not enough. Every single day matters in our preparations,” Garcia said.
By Joel San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
HE Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) is pushing for a bill that will grant medical parole to persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) aged 70 years old and above, as well as those who are terminally ill or severely incapacitated.
Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr. made the statement during the Department of Justice (DOJ) and its attached agencies budget presentation before the House committee on Appropriations for the 2026 budget
During the hearing, Catapang was asked by Rep. Percy Cendaña on the initiatives being undertaken by the bureau to help in the decongestion of PDLs.
Catapang said while its current initiative to transfer PDLs to various Operating, Prison and Penal Farm, the bill would help institutionalize a system of medical parole for elderly and medically incapacitated PDLs on the ground of humanitarian considerations and global best practices.
The bill aims to ensure their dignity, provide appropriate medical care outside the confines of prison.
The legal frameworks, according to Catapang, have been adopted various
countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada which considered the continued incarceration of terminally ill or severely incapacitated individuals may constitute inhumane treatment and serve no legitimate penal objective.
“Our penal system faces chronic challenges, notably overcrowding, inadequate healthcare, and a rapidly growing population of elderly PDL,” Catapang said. Catapang pointed out that many individuals over the age of 70 struggle with chronic illnesses that limit their ability to care for themselves and pose minimal risks to public safety.
Catapang said there are around 500 to 1,000 elderly individuals incarcerated, with approximately 100 categorized as terminally ill.
“By adopting this bill, the BuCor not only aims to alleviate the burden on the prison system but also to recognize and address the basic human rights of some of the most vulnerable members of society,” the BuCor chief.
Likewise, Catapang stressed the need to increase the medical allowance per PDL from P15 to P30, emphasizing the necessity of enhancing healthcare provisions within the correctional facilities.
PLDT Global, BBIX partner to boost international connectivity in PHL
PLDT Global Corp. has teamed up with BBIX Inc., one of Asia’s biggest internet exchange (IX) providers, to roll out a new remote peering service that promises to boost international connectivity for enterprises in the Philippines.
The deal, announced on Tuesday, will allow PLDT’s international customers to plug directly into BBIX’s IX ecosystem without having to establish a physical presence in key overseas markets. BBIX operates 50 points of presence across Asia, North America and Europe, including hubs in Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, the United States and the United Kingdom.
“By leveraging BBIX’s carrier-neutral Internet Exchange, we are enabling
businesses to connect faster, more reliably, and more securely to the global digital economy,” Albert Villa-Real, president and CEO of PLDT Global, said.
Hideyuki Sasaki, the president and CEO of BBIX, said the collaboration would help meet surging demand for high-speed, low-latency services in the Asia-Pacific region.
“We are confident that PLDT’s powerful network infrastructure and PLDT Global’s international presence will bring immense value to our IX platform. All together, we will meet the rising demand for highspeed, low-latency connectivity and help enterprises thrive in the rapidly evolving digital economy,” he said. Lorenz S. Marasigan
Marcos orders immediate aid for areas affected by tropical depression ‘Mirasol’
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos has ordered the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and other concerned government agencies to provide immediate aid in areas, which will be affected by tropical depression “Mirasol.”
DSWD is now closely monitoring the areas, which will be hit by the new weather disturbance, which caused heavy rainfall and severe winds in the southern portion of Quezon, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, MIMAROPA, Western Visayas, and Negros Occidental last Wednesday. Mirasol is expected to affect more parts of Luzon and Visayas before it leaves the Philippine Area of Responsibility on September 18, 2025 evening.
As of 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Mirasol has maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometer per
hour (km/h) near the center and a gustiness of up to 90 km/h.
DSWD has reported it has 2.5 million food packs and other relief items, which it can deploy in areas hit by the latest tropical cyclone.
“This is in accordance with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to enhance the country’s disaster preparedness,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in Filipino in a press briefing last Wednesday.
DSWD also has 100,000 ready-to-eat food boxes for those who will be stranded due to the effects of Mirasol.
It also has more than 300,000 relief items such as blankets, hygiene kits, modular tents and others on standby for families heading to evacuation centers.
“The DSWD continues to coordinate with LGUs (local government units) to ensure the prompt delivery of relief to those affected by the typhoon. Everyone is reminded to be careful and follow the directives of the LGUs for their safety,” Castro said.
“We will always have to comply with the Supreme Court order, decision, or issuance. All our preparations will remain suspended until the TRO is lifted or until the Court issues a final ruling on
Garcia explained the TRO showed the High Court still recognized BAA 77 as valid, but only suspended its implementation.
“Once the TRO is lifted, the Comelec will be obliged to adjust preparations in line with the new measure,” he said.
Before the TRO, the Comelec
Asked if the elections can still proceed, Garcia said the matter was beyond the Comelec’s authority.
“The Comelec has no power to fix the date of the elections. Only Congress can set that. If the elections are reset as a consequence of the TRO and our suspension in compliance with it, we cannot offer any answer on when they will
Southern Tagalog flood control projects in NEP not endorsed by RDC—DepDev
By Erwin James T. Gianan Intern
THE Department of Economy, Planning and Development
(DepDev) clarified to the Special Committee on Southern Tagalog Development that the Regional Development Council (RDC) did not endorse the anomalous flood control projects.
House of Representatives Special Committee on Southern Tagalog Development Chairperson Representative Arman Dimaguila asked DepDev representatives to confirm if the anomalous flood control projects by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the National Expenditure Program (NEP) were endorsed by the RDC.
“[Not] all the projects included in the NEP are endorsed by the RDC. Projects which are nationally identified, identified at the national level at the central offices of the departments, do not go through the RDC
process,” Assistant Secretary Agnes Tolentino told Dimaguila during the interview portion of the briefing.
According to Tolentino, major agencies submit their budgets to be reviewed by the RDC for endorsement to the Department of Budget and Management. However, in cases of significant projects, those are mainly identified at national-level offices.
“Regarding the flood control projects, there [is] actually [a] very [small] percentage that has been endorsed by the RDC. Most of them are really identified at the central office. So, they did not go through the RDC process,” Tolentino said.
“In fact, we have also taken stock of the batting average of those [projects] RDC endorsed vis-a-vis the Programs and Projects [PAPs] included in the NEP and the average is just about 30 percent of the PAPs are finding its way into the NEP,” Tolentino added.
The DepDev earlier said a formal review protocol for flood control projects that were
flagged as incomplete, failed, or potentially “ghost projects” as part of Malacanang’s latest directive on public infrastructure transparency.
DepDev Undersecretary Joseph Capuno told the BusinessMirror that Regional Project Monitoring Committees (RPMCS) have begun on-site verification of 9,855 flood control projects, with consolidated reports submitted to the Presidential Management Staff every two weeks.
“Completion timelines will vary across regions due to differences in RPMC capacity, project volume, and local conditions. While we are doing our best to move swiftly, we also want to ensure that the validation is thorough and credible,” Capuno told BusinessMirror
Additionally, the Senate continues with its probe into the flood control projects, with the recent creation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure under Executive Order No. 94. With reports from Cai U. Ordinario.
PAL expands Cebu operations with new flights and increased frequencies to key destinations
By Lorenz S. Marsaigan @lorenzmarasigan
LEGACY carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) said on Wednesday it is strengthening its operations out of Cebu with the launch of new flights and expanded frequencies to key domestic destinations.
Starting October 26, PAL will inaugurate direct Cebu–Calbayog flights four times weekly, operating every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
“The launch of our Cebu-Calbayog route is a milestone in our mission to empower
By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) reminds both local governments and households to remain alert and take proactive measures by preparing for extreme weather events, such as the impending La Niña.
The DENR stated that households and local government units (LGUs), as well as frontliners and first responders in the event of a disaster, should always prepare for extreme weather events and ensure the safety of communities during heavy rains.
To recall, the DENR-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), responsible for geological mapping, geohazard assessment, and vulnerability assessment, among others, has previously distributed geohazard maps to inform the Comprehensive Land Use Plans
regional gateways like Cebu,” said PAL Express President Rabbi Vincent Ang. “This new service will provide travelers from Eastern Visayas direct access to Visayas and Mindanao, enhancing connectivity and convenience.”
Alongside the new service, PAL is ramping up flights from Cebu to some of the country’s most popular leisure destinations.
Both the Cebu-Siargao and Cebu-Busuanga (Coron) routes will now operate three times daily, allowing travelers to bypass Manila and enjoy smoother connections to the islands.
The airline is also boosting its Cebu-
and disaster response and management plans of local government units (LGUs).
Private individuals, like households or real property owners, can also view and download these maps, available online on the Geohazard Web Portal of the MGB website.
To help households and local government units prepare for the looming La Niña, the DENR gave tips to reduce risks and protect lives and livelihoods this rainy season.
The DENR said the general public should stay informed on the possible occurrence of flash floods and rain-induced landslides, particularly in their area.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PAGASA), DENR-MGB, and DOST-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology’s HazardHunter PH app regularly issue weather forecasts, hazard
Bacolod service from 14 to 18 weekly flights, while Cebu-Butuan will rise from seven to 11 flights. The Cebu-Cotabato route will expand from twice to thrice weekly services, Cebu-Ozamiz from three to four, and CebuTacloban from 11 to 14.
“We’re investing in Cebu as a strategic hub to help drive tourism and economic growth across the region,” Ang said.
From Mactan-Cebu International Airport, PAL also mounts international flights to Ho Chi Minh City, Seoul, Tokyo, and Osaka, offering passengers convenient access to both domestic and regional destinations.
If the first parliamentary polls do not push through on October 13, the Comelec said it would need additional funding for ballot printing, leasing of automated counting machines, and reconfiguring the automated election system—a process that would take at least two weeks.
The poll body noted its contract to lease the machines is valid only until October 13 and would not be automatically extended for free if the elections are postponed.
SC affirms Cusi and Matibag as legitimate leaders of PDP Laban
THE Supreme Court (SC) has declared that the group led by Alfonso Cusi and Melvin Matibag are the legitimate leaders of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino Lakas ng Bayan (PDP Laban) political party.
In a decision penned by Associate Justice Japar B. Dimaampao, the Court’s en banc junked the petition filed by former Senators Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao which assailed the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) recognition of the Cusi-led group. The Court held that under PDP Laban’s constitution, the vice-chairperson may take over the chairperson’s duties in cases of absence or incapacity. It noted that party chairman expresident Rodrigo Duterte had already authorized Cusi to organize and lead the May 31 meeting through a memorandum dated May 17, 2021.
Despite procedural issues such as the lack of coordination with Pacquiao or defective meeting notices, the Court ruled the meeting was valid because a proper quorum was present.
Out of 162 voting members, 126 or 80 percent attended, which far exceeds the required 40 percent quorum. Additionally, according to the party’s constitution, any defect in giving notice does not invalidate proceedings if a quorum exists.
The SC said because the May 31 meeting was valid, the actions taken during and after it, including the July 17 national assembly, were also valid. The SC emphasized that Cusi, as vice-chairperson, had the authority to perform functions assigned by the National Council.
advisories, and timely updates through their websites and social media platforms.
“Use these vital tools to stay informed and prepared during rapidly changing weather conditions. They also help monitor your area’s susceptibility and the potential severity of flooding and landslides,” the DENR said.
According to the DENR-MGB’s 1:10,000-scale Flood Susceptibility Map, a barangay is considered susceptible if it satisfies two criteria: first, if it has a moderate, high, or very high flood susceptibility rating; second, if it is expected to experience heavy rainfall, exceeding the rainfall thresholds set by DENR-MGB.
Areas located on steep slopes or that have weak and heavily weathered foundation material are more likely to experience landslides. Watch out for signs of water seepage from slopes not traversed by drainage canals or gullies, as these may
indicate oversaturation and the possibility of a landslide.
Households must stay alert and coordinate with LGUs for timely updates and possible pre-emptive evacuation.
“If you live near rivers, streams, creeks, or gullies, stay alert for any rapid rise in the water level or if the water suddenly becomes muddy. These could signal the possibility of flash floods. Follow official updates and prepare to evacuate when necessary,” the DENR said. Moreover, the DENR advised the public to immediately report cracks in the ground, floors, walls, or around doors and windows, and any tilting of structures or water seepage from slopes to barangay officials and the MGB for proper assessment. These signs may indicate soil oversaturation and an impending landslide.
Task force vs communists asks SC to void Gabriela’s proclamation
THE National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac) on Wednesday asked the Supreme Court to stop Gabriela Women’s Party from sitting as the 64th party-list organization in the House of Representatives.
The petition was filed hours after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) officially proclaimed Gabriela as a winning party-list group in the May 2025 elections in compliance with a Comelec resolution increasing party-list seats from 63 to 64.
NTF-Elcac asked the Court to immediately issue a status quo ante order against respondent Comelec to prevent Gabriela from assuming a congressional seat.
Gabriela ranked 55th in the party-list race, with a total of 256,811 votes.
The NTF-Elcac questioned Gabriela’s proclamation despite its pending petition filed before the poll body seeking to disqualify the group has yet to be resolved since 2019.
It added that its proclamation violates the provisions of the 1987 Constitution and Republic Act 7941, otherwise known as the Party-list System Act, which limits the number of party-lists to not more than 20 percent of the entire membership of the House of Representatives.
The petitioner argued that under Section 5 of the 1987 Constitution which specifically states: “The party-list representatives shall constitute twenty percentum of the total number of representatives including those under the party-list.”
On the other hand, Section 11 of RA 7941, states: “The party-list representatives shall constitute twenty percentum (20%) of the total number of the members of the House of Representatives including those under the party-list.”
Likewise, the petitioners said the Court, in the case of Barangay Association for National Advancement and Transparency (Banat) v Comelec, has emphasized that the constitutional directive of 20 percent allocation of party-list “is merely a ceiling” and that “party-list representatives cannot be more than 20 percent of the members of the House.”
“In line with the foregoing, there is absolutely no necessity for Gabriela to be added as the so-called ‘64th party-list representative. The current allocation of 63 seats has already reached the constitutional ceiling, fully satisfying the mandate of proportional representation,” the petitioners said.
“To insist on Gabriela’s inclusion would not only be superfluous but would be in grave contravention of the clear intent of the Constitution and binding jurisprudence…,” it added.
Earlier on Wednesday, the Comelec proclaimed Gabriela as the winner of the 64th party-list seat, allowing former Kabataan nominee Sarah Elago to return to the House of Representatives as its first nominee.
Elago said the party-list’s proclamation came at a time of “rampant” corruption and
abuse, warning that Gabriela would push to hold accountable those who exploit public funds.
“Now, the Gabriela Women’s Party is entering a time when the corrupt, the crocodiles, and the abusive are in disarray. With Gabriela’s proclamation, the corrupt should beware. Gabriela and the women are furious and relentless in the face of rampant corruption,” Elago said.
She added that Gabriela intends to challenge President Marcos to abolish pork barrel or localized funds, as well as congressional excursions, which she said misuse public money for personal luxuries.
Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia previously expressed the poll body’s intention to proclaim Gabriela as the 64th party-list group in the House of Representatives after the 63 occupied seats translated to just 19.87 percent of the 317 total members of the House. The number is lower than the 20-percent ceiling set by law.
Garcia said Elago may take her oath as representative after the Comelec has issued the Certificate of Proclamation. He said once she officially assumes office, Comelec would no longer have jurisdiction over the party-list group.
Any legal concerns surrounding the proclamation of the party-list would now be under the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal, an electoral tribunal that handles election protests in the House of Representatives. Joel R. San Juan with Alyanna Selda
AFP sees stronger ties with France, UK
By Rex Anthony Naval
THE Armed Forces (AFP) expects stronger ties with its British and French counterparts following the visits of defense officials from the United Kingdom and France this week.
On Wednesday, the AFP said in a statement that it is expecting stronger defense relations with its French counterparts in the coming years.
This was highlighted during the meeting between the AFP chief of staff, Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., and Brig. Gen. Patrick Vaglio, Head of Division at the Joint Headquarters International Staff of the French Armed Forces, during the latter’s courtesy visit in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, on Tuesday.
“[Vaglio’s] visit forms part of the ongoing Philippines-France Joint Defense Cooperation Committee initiatives aimed at strengthening bilateral military relations and enhancing defense cooperation between the two nations,” the AFP said in a statement.
The AFP said the two military officials discussed areas of mutual interest and explored opportunities to deepen collaboration in defense and security matters.
“The courtesy visit underscores the
NBI. . .
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At a separate briefing, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said he was not aware that the Discaya companies were involved in the project. It can be recalled that the Philippine Construction Accreditation Board (Pcab) has already revoked the licenses of the construction firms of the Discayas and several others involved in the multibillion anomalous flood control projects.
In light of this discovery, Remulla said he would ask for the review of the contract pertaining to the NBI building to determine if it went through the regular process.
However, considering that Pcab has already revoked the licenses of Discayas’ companies, Remulla said they would also explore the possibility of allowing other construction firms to take over.
“That’s the only option we have if they cannot proceed anymore because they
commitment of both armed forces to maintaining a strong partnership and promoting regional peace and stability,” the AFP said.
Also on Tuesday, Vaglio paid a courtesy call on the Air Force (PAF) vice commander, Maj. Gen. Aristotle Gonzalez, at the PAF headquarters in Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.
“The visit highlighted discussions on strengthening bilateral relations and exploring potential avenues for future cooperation between the PAF and the French Armed Forces,” PAF said in a separate statement.
“This engagement reflects the shared commitment of both nations to advancing defense cooperation.”
UK ties
UK Minister of State for Defense in the House of Lords, Lord Coaker, paid a courtesy visit at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
Lt. Gen. Jimmy Larida, AFP vice chief of staff, welcomed Coaker to the AFP General Headquarters.
“During the meeting, both leaders discussed ongoing defense engagements, opportunities for future collaboration, and mutual support in addressing emerging security challenges,” the AFP said n a statement.
It added that the visit served to
no longer have a license,” Remulla said.
“We have to look deeper into it— where the budget came from, whether someone acted as sponsor, and whether they were people they talked to. These are the things we need to look into. We’re not going to spare anyone, everyone who should be held accountable must be held accountable,” the DOJ secretary said. For his part, Justice Undersecretary Jesses Andres said they would review the contract to determine if there are provisions that allow the transfer of the project to subcontractors.
“Maybe we will monitor that first, will conduct an inspection and we will give you an update. We will also check the progress billing if it would complement their accomplishments,” he added.
reaffirm the longstanding defense and security cooperation between the Philippines and the UK, underscoring shared commitments in promoting regional stability, maritime security, and capacity-building initiatives.
On Tuesday, the Navy (PN) also welcomed Coaker and his delegation during a courtesy call to the Navy chief, Vice Adm. Jose Ma Ambrosio Ezpeleta. The visit coincided with the port visit of HMS Richmond (F239) of the Royal Navy, highlighting the active cooperation and shared maritime engagements between the two navies.
The meeting emphasized the shared commitment of the Philippines and the United Kingdom to regional security and maritime stability, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. Both sides discussed the importance of preserving freedom of navigation and upholding international law.
“We stand firmly with you with respect to freedom of navigation,” Coaker said.
Discussions also explored avenues for future defense and maritime cooperation, including strengthening partnerships, conducting joint activities, enhancing operational readiness, and pursuing opportunities for defense capability development. With PNA
Andres also said that aside from state prosecutors and NBI investigators, the task force is also composed of accountants and other financial transaction experts for possible money laundering activities of those involved in anomalous flood control projects.
He added that seizure and freeze orders against assets and properties of these individuals are expected to be issued soon.
He said the task force would be coordinating with the independent commission created by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. with regard to the evidence gathered and other actions.
“We will accept all the evidence they will be providing us and we are also willing to share what we already have in evidence based on the efforts of the NBI,” Andres said. Santiago, on the other hand, said it would submit to the DOJ on Wednesday a recommendation for possible prosecution of DPWH officials and several contractors over alleged anomalies in flood control projects.
He disclosed that upon checking with the Securities and Exchange Commission, they found out that seven or eight of the 15 construction firms flagged by Marcos Jr. in the anomalous control projects have “interlocking” officials.
www.businessmirror.com.ph
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to inspect its new office this week.
Marcos created the commission with sweeping powers to investigate, subpoena, and recommend prosecution in corruption-tainted infrastructure programs.
Meanwhile, Castro reported that the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” website has received more than 16,000 complaints since its launch.
She said the complaints will be endorsed to the ICI for evaluation and possible action.
Due process
MALACAÑANG on Wednesday hit back at Vice President Sara Duterte’s criticism of the Marcos administration’s anti-corruption campaign, particularly on the handling of the alleged corruption in flood control projects, saying the President is acting decisively while upholding due process.
“Hindi po natin alam kung siya po ba ay matagal na nag-stay sa isang kweba at hindi niya nalalaman ang mga nagaganap at hindi niya nalalaman ang agarang isinasagawa ng Pangulo [We don’t know if she has been staying in a cave too long that she is unaware of what is happening and what the President is immediately carrying out],” Castro said in a press briefing.
Castro said Marcos does not believe in shortcuts, contrasting his approach with the previous
administration’s controversial war on drugs, which was marred with allegations of extra-judicial and vigilante-style killings.
“Ang pag-iimbestiga po ay hindi kailangang isang araw lang. Hindi po naniniwala ang Pangulo sa isang EJKstyle, walang imbestigahan, libingan ang hantungan. Ang gusto ng Pangulo, due process [Investigations cannot be completed in a day. The President does not believe in an EJK-style where there is no investigation and only the graveyard awaits. The President
wants due process],” she said. Castro also recalled a 2017 statement where then-President Rodrigo Duterte, the Vice President’s father, admitted to being corrupt.
“Kung meron man pong sistema ang Bise Presidente kung paano agarang masusugpo ang korapsyon, ito sana po ay ibinigay na rin po niya sa kanyang ama [If the Vice President had a system to immediately end corruption, she should have given it to her father],” she said. She pointed to the creation of
the ICI to investigate anomalous flood control projects as proof that Marcos is taking concrete action. Castro capped her remarks with a jab, tagging the Vice President as a “comedienne.”
“May nakita po pala tayong talent ng Bise Presidente. Magaling po pala siyang magpatawa kahit hindi siya komedyante [We discovered the Vice President has a talent after all—she’s good at making people laugh even if she’s not a comedian].” With PNA
A10 Thursday, September 18, 2025
Editor: Angel R. Calso
Aid groups urge global action as UN commission declares genocide in Gaza amid rising death toll
By Julia Frankel & Samy Magdy
The Associated Press
JERUSALEM—A coalition of leading aid groups Wednesday urged the international community to take stronger measures to stop Israel’s offensive on Gaza City after a commission of UN experts found Israel was committing genocide in Gaza.
That’s as Israel pressed forward with the operation in the territory’s already-devastated north and the Palestinian death toll in Gaza neared 65,000.
“What we are witnessing in Gaza is not only an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe, but what the UN Commission of Inquiry has now concluded is a genocide,” read the statement from the aid groups. “States must use every available political, economic,
and legal tool at their disposal to intervene. Rhetoric and half measures are not enough. This moment demands decisive action.”
The message was signed by leaders of over 20 aid organizations operating in Gaza, including the Norwegian Refugee Council, Anera and Save the Children.
The statement came a day after Israel launched its offensive in Gaza City in earnest, vowing to overwhelm a city already in ruins from nearly two years of war.
On Wednesday, Gaza hospital officials said overnight Israeli strikes across the territory killed at least 13 Palestinians, including women and children. More than half of the dead were killed in strikes on Gaza City, including a child and his mother who were killed in a strike on their apartment in the Shati refugee camp, according to officials from the
Shifa Hospital, which received the casualties.
In central Gaza, the Al-Awda Hospital said an Israeli strike hit a house in the urban Nuseirat refugee camp, killing three, including a pregnant woman. Two parents and their child were also killed when a strike hit their tent in the Muwasi area west of the city of Khan Younis, said officials from the Nasser Hospital, where the bodies were brought.
The Israeli military did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the deadly strikes, but in the past, it has accused Hamas of building military infrastructure inside civilian areas.
The death count in Gaza from Israel’s retaliatory offensive is approaching 65,000. The war has killed more than 64,900 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not say how many were civilians or combat -
ants. The ministry, which is part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals, says women and children make up around half the dead.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military announced the opening of another route south for those fleeing Gaza City. The military’s Arabic-language spokesman, Col. Avichay Adraee, wrote on social media that the new route, along the Salah al-Din Street hugging Gaza’s coastline, will open for those heading south for two days starting Wednesday at 12 p.m. local time.
Also Wednesday, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement saying they condemned “in the strongest terms” Israel’s ground offensive in Gaza. The ministry wrote on X that the operation marked an “extension of the war of genocide” against the Palestinians.
Qatar is incensed over an Israeli strike last week that killed five Hamas members and a local security official.
An estimated 1 million Palestinians were living in the Gaza City region before warnings to evacuate began ahead of the offensive, and the Israeli military estimates 350,000 people have left the city.
A U.N. estimate Monday said that over 220,000 Palestinians have fled northern Gaza over the past month. But hundreds of thousands more have stayed behind.
An Israeli military graphic suggested its troops hope to control all of the Gaza Strip except for a large swath along the coast by the end of the current operation.
Israeli forces have carried out multiple large-scale raids into Gaza City over the course of the war, causing mass displacement and heavy destruction, only to see militants regroup later. This time,
Israel has pledged to take control of the entire city, which experts say is experiencing famine. An Israeli military official, speaking on condition of anonymity in line with military guidelines, said Tuesday they believe there are 2,000 to 3,000 Hamas militants left in Gaza City, as well as tunnels used by the group. Hamas’ military capabilities have been vastly diminished. It now mainly carries out guerrilla-style attacks, with small groups of fighters planting explosives or attacking military outposts before melting away. The war in Gaza began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting 251 others. Forty-eight hostages, fewer than half believed to be alive, remain in Gaza.
Magdy reported from Cairo.
Israel strikes Yemeni port of Hodeida as Houthi rebels activate air defenses
By Ahmed Al-Haj & Fatma Khaled The Associated Press
ADEN, Yemen—Israel on Tuesday launched airstrikes on the Yemeni city of Hodeida as Iranian-backed Houthi rebels activated air defenses.
The Israeli military said in an update that it struck “military infrastructure” used by the Houthis at Hodeida port.
“The Hudaydah Port is used by the Houthi terrorist regime for the transfer of weapons supplied by the Iranian regime, in order to execute attacks against the State of Israel and its allies,” the statement read.
“Our air defenses are currently confronting the Israeli aircrafts that are launching an aggression against our country,” Houthi spokesperson Yayha Saree posted on X.
Saree said in a statement that
the Houthi air defenses “caused great confusion” for Israeli aircraft and forced some combat formations to leave Yemeni airspace before carrying out the attacks, thwarting Israel’s incursion deep into Yemen.
Earlier Israeli strikes targeted Sanaa THE latest strikes came as hundreds attended funeral services for 31 Yemeni journalists who were reported killed in Israeli airstrikes last week that targeted Houthis in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa. The strikes last Wednesday followed a drone launched by the
Houthis that breached Israel’s multilayered air defenses and slammed into a southern Israeli airport, blowing out glass windows and injuring one person.
In Yemen, dozens were reported killed, including the journalists, in the strikes that hit Sanaa, including residential areas, a military headquarters and a fuel station, according to the health ministry in the rebel-held northern part of the country.
The National Museum of Yemen in Sanaa was also damaged, according to the rebels’ culture ministry, with footage from the site showings damage to the building’s façade. A government facility in the city of Hazm, the capital of northern Jawf province, was also hit.
The Israeli army said last week that it struck sites used by the Houthis to gather intelligence and attack Israel, a fuel storage facility,
and a “public relations department responsible for distributing propaganda messages in the media.”
Houthi-run Al-Masirah TV broadcast the funerals Tuesday, showing dozens inside a mosque and the caskets being carried ahead of the burial. An honor guard stood beside the coffins.
The turnout was lower than expected for such a “huge loss,” according to Khaled Rageh and Ahmed Malhy, who attended the funerals, likely because heavy morning rain kept some away. The two men spoke to The Associated Press by phone.
Threats to journalists working in Yemen
ISRAEL has previously launched waves of airstrikes in response to the Houthis’ firing missiles and drones at Israel. The Houthis say they are attacking in solidarity with Palestinians amid the war in the Gaza Strip. The Houthis have also targeted ships in the Red Sea for over 22 months.
The Committee to Protect Journalists told The Associated Press on Monday that the organization
is still actively looking into the reported deaths of Yemeni journalists but was having difficulties in verifying facts on the ground in rebel-held Sanaa.
“The information environment is highly restricted—Houthi authorities have imposed strict censorship, including a ban on sharing photos or videos related to the airstrikes,” the CPJ said.
The New York-based Human Rights Watch in a Monday post said Israeli airstrikes in Sanaa also hit a media center housing the headquarters of two newspapers, describing it as another example of the dangers facing journalists in Yemen.
“The recent Israeli forces’ attack further highlights the threats journalists are facing in Yemen, not just by domestic authorities but also by external warring parties,” said HRW.
Mohammed al-Basha, a Yemen analyst, said on X that the strikes hit as staffers at the “September 26” newspaper gathered to prepare the paper’s next edition.
Khaled reported from Cairo.
YEMENIS carry the coffins of 31 local journalists reportedly killed in Israeli airstrikes last week, during their funeral in Sanaa, Yemen, Tuesday, September 16, 2025. AP/OSAMAH ABDULRAHMAN
Federal Reserve wrestles with how many interest rate cuts to make and how fast
By Christopher Rugaber AP Economics Writer
WASHINGTON—With the Federal Reserve widely expected Wednesday to reduce its key interest rate by a quarterpoint to about 4.1%, economists and Wall Street investors will be looking for signals about next steps: How deeply might the Fed cut in the next few months?
There are typically two different approaches the central bank takes to lowering borrowing costs: Either a measured pace that reflects a modest adjustment to its key rate, or a much more rapid set of cuts as the economy deteriorates in an often-doomed effort to stave off recession.
For now, most economists expect it will take the first approach: What many analysts call a “recalibration” of rates to keep the economy growing and businesses hiring. Under this view, the Fed would reduce rates as many as five times by the middle of next year, bringing its rate closer to a level
that neither stimulates or slows the economy.
Wall Street traders expect three reductions this year and then two more by next June, according to futures pricing tracked by CME Fedwatch.
A rate cut Wednesday would be the first in nine months. The Fed, led by Chair Jerome Powell, reduced borrowing costs three times last
year. But it then put any further cuts on hold to evaluate the impact of President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs on the economy.
As recently as their last meeting in late July, Powell described the job market as “solid” and kept rates unchanged as officials sought to take more time to see how the economy evolved.
Since then, however, the gov -
Wall Street edges back from its record heights
By Stan Choe AP Business Writer
EW YORK—US stocks
Nernment has reported a sharp slowdown in hiring, and previous government data has been revised much lower. Employers actually cut back slightly on their payrolls in June, shedding 13,000 jobs, and added just 22,000 in August.
The government also said last week that its estimate of job gains for the year ended in March 2025 would likely be revised down by 911,000, a sharp reduction in total employment. Powell and other Fed officials had previously pointed to a robust job market as a key reason that they could afford to keep rates unchanged. But with businesses pulling back on hiring, the economic case for a rate cut— which can spur more borrowing and spending—is stronger.
The downward revision of nearly a million jobs is a “huge downgrade,” said Talley Leger, chief market strategist at the Wealth Consulting Group. “If that doesn’t light a fire under the Fed just from an economic perspective, I don’t know what will.”
Still, inflation remains stubbornly elevated, partly because
tariffs have lifed the cost of some goods, such as furniture, appliances and food. Prices rose 2.9% in August from a year earlier, the government said last week, up from 2.7% a month earlier.
Persistent inflation could keep the Fed from cutting too rapidly. The central bank will release its quarterly economic projections after the meeting Wednesday, and many economists forecast they will show that officials expect three total reductions this year and at least two more next year. Five reductions would bring the Fed’s key rate down to just above 3%. Many economists think that is roughly the rate that would neither stimulate nor slow the economy. If Fed officials began to worry the economy would slip into recession, they would likely cut rates more quickly. But for now, most economists don’t see rapid cuts as necessary.
“We’re not at a break-glass moment,” said Vincent Reinhart, chief economist at BNY Investments. “This is a recalibration.”
edged back from their record heights on Tuesday as the countdown ticked toward what Wall Street expects will be the first cut of the year to interest rates by the Federal Reserve. The S&P 500 fell 0.1% from its latest all-time high. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 125 points, or 0.3%, while the Nasdaq composite slipped 0.1% from its own record set the day before.
Stocks have run to records on expectations that the Fed will announce the first of a series of cuts to rates on Wednesday in hopes of giving the economy a boost. The job market has slowed so much that traders believe Fed officials now see it as the bigger danger for the economy than the threat of higher inflation because of President Donald Trump’s tariffs.
The Fed has been holding off on cuts to rates because inflation has remained above its 2% target, and easier interest rates could give it more fuel.
A report on Tuesday said shoppers increased their spending at US retailers by more last month than economists expected. A chunk of that could be due to shoppers having to pay higher prices for the same amount of stuff. But it could also indicate solid spending by US households could continue to keep
the economy out of a recession.
The data did little to change traders’ expectations for a cut to interest rates on Wednesday, followed by more through the end of the year and into 2026.
Such high expectations have sent stocks to records, but they can also create disappointment if unfulfilled. That’s why more attention will be on what Fed Chair Jerome Powell says about the possibility of upcoming cuts in his press conference following
Wednesday’s decision than on the decision itself.
Fed officials will also release their latest projections for where they see interest rates and the economy heading in upcoming years, which could provide another potential flashpoint.
For now, global fund managers are tilting their portfolios toward stocks at the highest level in seven months, according to the latest survey by Bank of America. That’s even though a record 58% of them are also saying that stocks look too expensive at the moment.
On Wall Street, Dave & Buster’s fell 16.7% after the entertainment chain reported a weaker profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected. New York Times Co. fell 1.6%
after Trump filed a $15 billion defamation lawsuit against the newspaper and four of its journalists on Monday. The lawsuit points to several articles and a book written by Times journalists and published in the lead up to the 2024 election as “part of a decades-long pattern by the New York Times of intentional and malicious defamation against President Trump.”
On the winning end of Wall Street was Steel Dynamics, which climbed 6.1% after it said it’s seeing improved earnings across its three business units. It credited strong demand for steel from the non-residential construction and auto industries, among other things.
AP Business Writers Yuri Kageyama and Matt Ott contributed.
JEROME POWELL AL DRAGO/BLOOMBERG
Trump, Modi seek to ease tensions amid tariff disputes and Russian oil purchases
By Hadriana Lowenkron & Shruti Srivastava
UNITED STATES President Donald Trump said he spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a move that offers to ease tensions between the two major economies amid a fight over tariffs and New Delhi’s purchases of Russian oil. Trump said he had a “wonderful” call with the Indian leader and wished him a happy birthday, in a social media post on Tuesday.
“He is doing a tremendous job,” Trump added. “Narendra: Thank you for your support on ending the War between Russia and Ukraine!”
The call comes as the two nations resumed trade negotiations this week, discussions both sides characterized as positive as they look to reset ties following Trump’s move last month to levy 50% tariffs on exports from the South Asian nation. The president had doubled the 25% import tax rate on Indian goods—aimed at countering the country’s tariffs and other trade barriers—to also punish New Delhi for its continued Russian energy buys.
Modi in a post on X said tha t India supported Trump’s “initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict.”
Ukraine and its allies say purchases of Russian energy by India and China are undercutting global sanctions targeting Russian President Vladimir Putin that aim to pressure the Kremlin to end the war on its neighbor. Indian officials have defended the country’s energy purchases and insisted that they will continue to buy Russian oil as long as it is financially viable to do so.
Indian equities traded higher on Wednesday and the rupee strengthened versus the dollar. Analysts sounded cautiously optimistic about India-US relations after the call.
This is typical carrot and stick approach” by Trump, said Amitendu Palit, senior research fellow and research lead on trade and economics at the Institute of South Asian Studies. “His officials remain critical of India but there is this understanding that let us not give up on the diplomatic route.”
White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has been cranking up pressure on India to halt its purchases of Russian oil, and has even cast the conflict in Ukraine as “Modi’s war.”
The US and India had previously committed to a bilateral agreement, which they intended to complete this fall, but those talks deadlocked and recent months have seen Trump toughen his stance against New Delhi as he looks to ramp up pressure over its Russia ties. New Delhi’s refusal to open dairy and agriculture markets are also among the reasons the talks have stalled.
Modi in his social media post added that India was “fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights.”
It is unclear how the US and India will resolve their dispute over oil purchases.
Trump in recent weeks has pressured other allies, including Group of Seven nations, to also ratchet up sanctions on both India and China, the biggest buyers of Russian energy.
T hose additional sanctions threaten to complicate efforts to broker a trade deal with New Delhi and undo a delicate trade truce between Washington and Beijing.
“The call shows that there is clearly a thaw and the ice is melting but I would say we shouldn’t read too much into this,” said Biswajit Dhar, a professor at the Council for Social Development, a New Delhi-based research institute. “India has put all its cards on the table. It is up to America now to respond.” With assistance from Ravil Shirodkar and Michelle Jamrisko/ Bloomberg
Australia’s Albanese unable to clinch defense treaty with Papua New Guinea during visit
By Rod Mcguirk The Associated Press
ELBOURNE, Australia—Australian
MPrime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday was unable to clinch an ambitious defense treaty with Papua New Guinea during a visit to the country, a week after he failed to land a security pact with another South Pacific island neighbor, Vanuatu, aimed at curbing China’s influence in the region.
The diplomatic setbacks come ahead of his potential first meeting with US President Donald Trump next week where regional security will be on the agenda.
Albanese had announced that the bilateral treaty with Papua New Guinea would be signed during his three-day visit to the country’s capital of Port Moresby that ended Wednesday.
But a Papua New Guinea Cabinet meeting scheduled for Monday to endorse the treaty never took place.
Instead of signing the treaty, Albanese and his Papua New Guinea counterpart James Marape released a communique on Wednesday that said the text had been agreed on and the document would be signed “following Cabinet processes in both countries.”
Albanese had similarly expected to sign a bilateral security and economic treaty during a visit to Vanuatu on Sept. 9, but left the country with an assurance that negotiations would continue.
Vanuatuan Prime Minister Jotham Napat said last week there were concerns within his government that the treaty could limit Vanuatu’s ability to raise money for critical infrastructure from any third country, such as China.
Albanese on Wednesday rejected a reporter’s suggestion that he was overreaching by trying to persuade countries to sign deals they were not ready for.
“Democracies aren’t the same as authoritarian regimes. They go through processes. We respect them,” Albanese said.
“Processes are important and sovereignty’s important and we respect it and Papua New Guinea will go through its Cabinet processes, but we have...agreed on the words in this treaty,” he added.
TikTok, rare earths, and Taiwan: Trump-Xi call to run the gamut
By Bloomberg News
UNITED STATES President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will have plenty to discuss this week in their first conversation since June, with TikTok, Boeing planes, rare earth magnets and Taiwan among top items for negotiation.
The leaders are set to speak in advance of a potential in-person summit on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in South Korea at the end of October, capping months of a low-boil tit-for-tat around tariffs, export restrictions and investment issues. Trump posted on Truth Social that he’d have a call with Xi on Friday, adding that “the relationship remains a very strong one!!!”
Beijing hasn’t publicly confirmed or commented on the call. The foreign ministry on Tuesday said only that “head-of-state diplomacy plays an irreplaceable strategic leading role” in ties between the world’s largest economies.
What are some of the top priorities for the US and China on any trade deal?
TRUMP looks to keep up the trade pressure in his billing of a revival of the US economy that he says has turned on tariffs, which have surged to their highest level in more than a century. China, under some renewed domestic economic pressure, is seeking to remove those extra duties.
and China responding with fresh investigations of American-made chips.
Trump also has demanded a stronger crackdown on entities in China that facilitate the export or financing of fentanyl and related substances. It’s a sensitive issue for China, too, as officials haven’t taken kindly to the implication that they’re abetting drug trade.
Questioned by a reporter, Marape said he was not concerned that China would use the delay to lobby his ministers to scuttle the treaty.
“Please let’s give respect to China,” Marape said. “This (delay) is in no way, shape or form (because) Chinese have any hand in saying: Don’t do this, etc.”
Marape declined to say whether all his ministers agreed the treaty should go ahead, citing Cabinet confidentiality.
“There is no sticking point,” Marape said. The pact would elevate Papua New Guinea to become Australia’s third security alliance partner after the United States and New Zealand.
Australia has stepped up efforts to bolster relations with island nations in the region since 2022, when Beijing struck a security deal with Solomon Islands that has raised the prospect of a Chinese naval base being established in the South Pacific.
Albanese is expected to seek his first in-person meeting with Trump when the prime minister travels to New York next week to attend the United Nations General Assembly. Albanese’s office has not confirmed meeting plans.
Trump recently told reporters outside the White House that Albanese was “coming over to see me very soon.”
At the time, Trump was berating Australian Broadcasting Corp. America’s Editor John Lyons over questions he asked about Trump family business dealings.
“In my opinion, you are hurting Australia very much right now and they want to get along with me. You know your leader is coming over to see me very soon. I’m going to tell him about you. You set a very bad tone,” Trump told Lyons.
Lyons later told ABC, a state-funded broadcaster, he expected Trump and Albanese would meet in New York City next week.
“I believe that they will have the meeting and I hope that, you know, that my two or three questions about legitimate public interest shouldn’t, in my view, in any way impact upon what they decide,” Lyons said.
“So, President Trump’s suggestion that I’m hurting Australia, think, is an absurd suggestion,” Lyons added.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer met on Monday with Chinese officials in Madrid to hash out a framework to meet the latest sell-or-be-banned deadline for ByteDance Ltd.’s TikTok app, helping keep plans on track for the top-level engagement. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with their counterparts last week.
After months of “trade truce” extensions and lower-level talks, here’s what’s at stake for the Trump-Xi call and beyond: Where does the US-China relationship stand under Trump’s second term in office?
Trump continues to hail Xi as a strong leader he admires, and arguably has been ripping pages from Xi’s playbook as the US looks to take government stakes in companies like Nvidia Corp. and Intel Corp. As he aims to secure an expansive deal with Xi, he’s spared China secondary sanctions for its Russian oil purchases while penalizing India, punted on banning TikTok and spoken more positively on accepting Chinese students at American universities.
At the same time, Trump has targeted China alongside every other trading partner under a renewed “liberation” campaign that’s meant to even up what the US sees as trade imbalances across the world.
The two nations have suspended the most extreme tariff measures against each other, which saw US levies on Chinese goods surge to as high as 145%, with the latest deadline looming in midNovember. One 20% tariff was applied as punishment for what Trump sees as inadequate Chinese crackdown on fentanyl trafficking that’s devastated American communities and haunted successive administrations.
Both sides have recognized a need to keep stability in the relationship, though there’s been plenty of grandstanding and disagreement around each superpower’s influence with Global South countries and in conflicts that rage in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Topping the list for Trump is ensuring the flow of rare-earth magnets—a key ingredient for American manufacturing and a sensitive bargaining chip that China has tapped particularly in response to the successive tariff boosts. The two superpowers also have traded blows around semiconductors, with the US adding 32 companies to its entity list
What’s more of the lowhanging fruit that either side could offer for a pact?
CHINA could look to satisfy Trump’s need for a big win with a series of pledges to purchase more American exports.
Chinese investment in the US would be viewed skeptically by hawks in Washington, which now applies heavy scrutiny to any such
transactions. But a Chinese order for hundreds of Boeing Co. planes, which would benefit both Trump and Xi, is expected to be a centerpiece of any deal. Soybeans are a frequent target and highly exposed to US-China trade talks. A Chinese move to curtail purchases from Brazil and instead shift to the US would be a boon for Trump’s efforts to please American farmers and boost Chinese imports. From the US side, a further softening in the people-to-people ties could go a long way to thawing relations. More moves to facilitate Chinese students in the US—especially amid a broader US crackdown on immigration—is one possible negotiating point. With assistance from Jenny Leonard, Julie Johnsson, Joe Deaux, Colum Murphy, Shawn Donnan and Jennifer Welch (analyst)/Bloomberg
SOYBEANS at a farm in Tiffin, Iowa. BLOOMBERG
A14 Thursday, September 18, 2025
Colombia’s president lashes out at Trump administration over drug war designation
By Manuel Rueda The Associated Press
BOGOTA, Colombia—Colombian president Gustavo Petro on Tuesday lashed out at the US government after it added Colombia to a list of nations failing to cooperate in the drug war for the first time in three decades.
In a message on his X account, the leftist leader accused the United States of seeking to “participate” in Colombian politics and looking for a “puppet president” as the country prepares for presidential elections next year.
“The Colombian people will reply if they want a puppet president…or a free and sovereign nation” Petro wrote, adding in another message that he would not let his nation “kneel” to US interests and allow peasants who grow coca to get “beaten up.”
On Monday, the Trump administration designated Colombia as a country that is failing to meet its international commitments to fight drug trafficking and blamed the Colombian government for a lack of progress in the fight against the cocaine trade.
The designation, known as decertification, is a stunning rebuke for a traditional US ally. It comes amid a recent surge in cocaine production and fraying ties between the White House and Colombia’s first leftist president. Even as the US determined that Colombia has failed to comply with international anti-narcotics obli -
gations, the Trump administration issued a waiver of sanctions that would have triggered major aid cuts.
On Tuesday, the charge d’affaires at the US embassy in Bogota, John McNamara, said that consular services, humanitarian projects and defense cooperation would not be affected by Colombia’s decertification.
“We are going to do everything we can to fight with the Colombian people against the global threat” of drugs, McNamara told Colombian radio station Blu. Colombia’s decertification comes as cocaine production skyrockets in the South American country.
The amount of land dedicated to cultivating coca, the base ingredient of cocaine, has almost tripled in the past decade to a record 253,000 hectares in 2023, according to the latest report available from the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime.
Petro, a former rebel himself, also has angered senior US officials by denying American extradition requests as well as criticizing the Trump administration’s
invalid.
In their petition, Pimentel and Pacquiao argued that Cusi’s May 31 meeting was unauthorized and irregular because Cusi lacked the authority to call and preside over the meeting.
They also argued that the meeting notices were flawed, the agenda hadn’t been coordinated with Pacquiao, the party president, and there was no quorum.
As a result, all subsequent actions, including the July assembly, were deemed
It can be recalled that in 2021, PDP Laban was chaired by Duterte, with Cusi serving as vice-chairperson. In the same year, Pacquiao expressed his intention to run for president in the 2022 elections under PDP Laban.
However, Cusi allegedly held meetings with local party leaders and endorsed a different presidential candidate who was not a party member.
As a result, the National Executive Committee (Committee), led by Pimentel and Pacquiao, passed a resolution advising the National Council to ask Cusi to justify why he
immigration crackdown and its efforts to combat drug trafficking in neighboring Venezuela.
The Colombian president has also said that whisky kills more people than cocaine, and claimed that the reason wealthy countries like the United States want to crack down on cocaine is because it’s produced in Latin America.
Sandra Borda, an international relations professor at Bogota’s Los Andes University said that Colombia’s decertification is unlikely to affect efforts to take on drug traffickers in Colombia, because military cooperation is expected to continue.
However, she expects tensions between the governments of the US and Colombia to increase, as Petro uses Colombia’s decertification to tap into antiAmerican sentiment and rally his supporters ahead of next year’s elections.
“There has been a difficult relationship” between the Petro and Trump administrations, she explained. “You have statements and
shouldn’t be expelled due to his actions, which went against the party’s interests.
On May 31, 2021, the National Council met in Cebu City, with Cusi presiding as authorized by Duterte, who joined via video conference.
They also appointed Matibag as Acting Secretary General.
Meanwhile, the faction led by Pimentel, expelled Cusi and Matibag and declared their party positions vacant.
Officers were elected, with Pimentel as acting chairperson due to Duterte’s continued absence and incapacity.
Later, on July 17, 2021, the Cusi group held a national assembly, which Duterte attended in person.
During the assembly, new officers were
declarations that are not friendly and I think what you are going to see is an escalation of that.”
In the Presidential Determination submitted to Congress on Monday, the Trump administration mostly blamed Petro for the rise of cocaine production in Colombia, describing his efforts to negotiate peace deals with “narco terrorist groups” as a failure.
The report said that Colombia’s security institutions and municipal authorities have shown “skill and courage” in confronting drug traffickers, but said that “the failure of Colombia to meet its drug control obligations over the past year rests solely with its political leadership.”
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also commented on Colombia’s decertification on Tuesday.
“Colombia has been a great partner historically,” Rubio told reporters. “But they have a president now who in addition to being erratic has not been a very good partner when it comes to taking on drug cartels.”
elected, including Cusi as president, while Duterte retained the chairperson position.
The Pimentel group, for its part, held its own assembly on September 19, 2021, and proclaimed Pacquiao as PDP Laban’s presidential candidate.
The Cusi group then filed a petition with the Comelec to declare the Pimentel-led group as illegitimate officers.
The Comelec granted the petition, prompting Pimentel and Pacquiao to elevate the issue before the SC.
The SC also ruled that the action taken by the Pimentel’s committee expelling Cusi and Matibag, was void , as it does not have such powers under the party’s constitution.
Joel R. San Juan
Representatives, saying the move was meant to uphold public trust and allow an independent probe into controversies surrounding government infrastructure projects.
“I stand before you today with utmost humility and with deep gratitude for the trust and confidence you have accorded me. That trust has been the source of my strength in every day of service,” Romualdez said in his speech.
But he noted that leadership also requires facing challenges directly, citing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call during his recent State of the Nation Address that “accountability must prevail, and no one is above scrutiny.”
“I fully and unequivocally embrace that call,” he said.
He admitted that allegations linked to certain infrastructure projects had placed a heavy burden on both his leadership and the institution.
“The longer I stay, the heavier that burden grows—on me, this House, and the President I have always sought to support,” he said.
“Today, with a full heart and a clear conscience, I tender my resignation as Speaker of the House of Representatives,” he added.
Romualdez underscored that his decision should not be interpreted as an admission of guilt.
“Let me be clear: I have done nothing wrong, and I have nothing to hide. My only purpose is to serve and improve the lives of every Filipino family. Yet I also know that when questions arise, the people’s trust must always come first,” he said.
Romualdez said he hopes his move will strengthen faith in democratic institutions.
“If my decision can help restore faith in our institutions, then I offer myself willingly as an example of accountability,” he said. He emphasized that stepping down does not mean leaving public service. “This is not farewell, but a reaffirmation of service. I will continue to serve as a representative of Leyte and as a servant of the Filipino people,” he stated.
“I step down not in surrender, but in service—for sometimes, the greatest act of leadership is the grace to let go, so that this institution may endure stronger than before.”
Who is Rep. Dy?
DY has long been active in politics. He hails from the powerful Dy political clan of Isabela. His father, Faustino Dy Sr., served as governor of the province from the 1970s until the 1990s.
Dy III brings more than four decades of experience in public service. His political journey began at the grassroots level as Kabataang Barangay Federation
Chairman and later as President of the Asosasyon ng mga Kapitan ng Barangay. He went on to serve as vice mayor and, in 1992, was elected mayor of Cauayan, where he led the city for nearly a decade, earning national recognition for peace and order, cleanliness, and effective governance.
In 2001, Dy was elected to the House of Representatives as Congressman for Isabela’s 3rd District, serving three consecutive terms. He returned to local governance in 2010 as Governor of Isabela, steering the province through a period of growth that garnered multiple national accolades.
After completing three terms as governor, Dy was elected vice governor of Isabela in 2019, serving until 2025. His performance again drew national praise, earning him three consecutive Vice Governor of the Year awards from the Nation Builders and Moslive Awards. In 2025, he returned to Congress as Representative of Isabela’s 6th District. That same year, he was elected Speaker of the House of Representatives, marking the culmination of his extensive career in public service.
Welcome BACOLOD lone district Rep. Albee Benitez welcomed the change in leadership in the House of Representatives, calling it “the best way to move forward.”
“That’s a good move; that is probably the best way to move forward so that we can finally see and uncover the truths behind the problem that’s rocking the House,” Benitez said.
Benitez reiterated that he has been calling for a change in leadership in the Lower House, which he deemed necessary for “a new image” amid the controversy on the government’s flood control projects.
There have been allegations of Romualdez’s involvement in flood control corruption and budget insertions, which have prompted Benitez to demand transparency and accountability from the House leadership.
As to the expected change in committee chairmanships and deputy speakerships, Benitez said he will await the new Speaker’s decisions on the matter.
Cebu Rep. Duke Frasco also expressed full support for Dy’s potential speakership.
“I extend my full support to Congressman Bojie Dy as the new Speaker of the House of Representatives. I am confident in his leadership and know him to be a man of integrity and good character,” he said.
“I look forward to working with Speaker Bojie in advancing meaningful legislation that will uplift the lives of the Filipino people. It is now time for the House of Representatives to stand united so that our nation may finally begin its path toward healing,” he added.
LGU’s contingency measures.
The DENR advised public the to prepare a “Go Bag” and set clear communication and evacuation plans.
To minimize flooding, the DENR said waste reduction and proper solid waste management must be practiced. “With responsible waste management, households and communities contribute to environmental protection and strengthen disaster resilience.”
The same way, the DENR advised LGUs to stay informed on possible flashfloods and rain-induced landslides, monitor conditions, disseminate updates, and inform residents for possible evacuation, prune trees in your locality to avoid possible damages, conduct regular cleanup drives to keep rivers and streams clear of obstructions, and integrate disaster waste management planning into the
“To ensure community preparedness, LGUs should develop or update their contingency plans for disaster waste management. These plans should include assessments of the types and estimated volume of disaster waste that may be generated, the capacity of existing waste management facilities, and the designated sites for temporary waste storage, sorting, and processing. Regularly updating these plans is essential to reflect local capacities and address gaps. The integration of LGU activities and programs for disaster waste management is required to renew their 10-year solid waste management plans. Through proactive planning, proper coordination, and community participation, the impacts of the rainy season can be mitigated and reduced. The DENR calls on everyone to take part in strengthening resilience, protecting lives, and safeguarding the environment,” the DENR stressed.
COLOMBIA’S President Gustavo Petro speaks during a meeting of leaders of the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization in Bogota, Colombia, August 22, 2025. AP/FERNANDO VERGARA)
PHL wants to slap ban on molasses imports
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
THE Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) is planning to impose a temporary ban on molasses imports prior to the start of the milling season on September 29 to prevent a supply glut.
SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona told the BusinessMirror that the buildup of local molasses inventories coincided with the spike in the imports of the raw sugar byproduct. Azcona said molasses output, which rose by 20 percent year-onyear to 1.18 million metric tons (MMT), was propelled by the un -
Govt disallows poultry imports from Argentina
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) slapped a temporary ban on poultry imports from Argentina due to a bird flu outbreak.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. signed Memorandum Order (MO)
48, which authorized the ban on the entry of poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and semen for artificial insemination from the South American nation.
The DA said it issued the measure after the H5N1 bird flu subtype was detected in the northern region of Buenos Aires last August 17.
Argentine authorities reported the outbreak to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) on August 20, it added.
“We are imposing the import ban because the H5N1 subtype poses a serious risk to both poultry and public health,” the DA chief said in a statement.
The MO directs the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) to immediately suspend all applications and the issuance of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances (SPSICs) for poultry commodities from Argentina.
Culling due to bird flu outbreaks has already cost the local poultry industry hundreds of millions of pesos and thousands of jobs, according to the DA. Eight provinces across four regions remain affected by the virus as of September 10. The agency recently declared Camarines Sur as bird flu-free.
“The DA continues to monitor global developments to safeguard both the local poultry industry and public health.”
Regionalization
THE DA recently issued several MOs granting
bilateral recognition for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) to Brazil, the Czech Republic, Russia, and Poland.
MOs 49 to 52 said that the Philippines sought several documentary requirements from the veterinary authorities of the said countries to assess the public health control measures applied and implemented against bird flu.
The DA issued the MOs to recognize the regionalization for HPAI on the importation of domestic and wild birds and their products, including poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and semen originating from bilaterally recognized free zones in Brazil, Russia, and Poland.
However, the agency noted that only poultry meat shipments from the Czech Republic are exempted from the regionalization agreement.
The MOs noted that the respective chief veterinary officers of Brazil, the Czech Republic, Russia, and Poland, together with the Philippines, agreed on the import terms and conditions for the bilateral regionalization for HPAI on August 8, August 19, August 27, and August 12, respectively.
As such, the DA said all poultry import transactions of the mentioned commodities should be in accordance with the bilaterally agreed import terms and conditions on regionalization and the current rules.
Under the regionalization agreement, the Philippines will restrict shipments of live birds and their products only from certain areas with confirmed avian flu cases instead of imposing a country-wide ban. Ada Pelonia
expected surge in sugarcane harvest and a drop in yield.
“What the SRA Board and the DA [Department of Agriculture] are planning now is to come up with a policy [and impose] a moratorium on molasses importation until we[reduce] the existing stocks,” he told this newspaper on the sidelines of the DA’s budget hearing last Monday.
Azcona had floated the possibility of regulating molasses imports to stabilize millsite price, which plunged by 35 percent to P12,000 per metric ton (MT) from P18,449 per MT last year, based on SRA data.
Meanwhile, he said the SRA
‘Insects
TBoard is also mulling over issuing a policy that would “more effectively control” molasses stocks.
Currently, there are no allocations needed for shipments of the raw sugar byproduct, which means anyone can import at any time.
“We’ll probably require importers to apply for an allocation first before they import, so we can monitor what’s arriving in the country or when it will arrive,” Azcona said, noting that such a move would be patterned on Sugar Order (SO) 2.
Under SO 2 or the voluntary purchase program, sugar allocations for eligible entities are based
on the raw sugar volume they purchased from local farmers at a premium price.
In return, eligible participants would be prioritized in the government’s future import programs at a ratio of 2 (locally produced raw sugar purchased): 1 (imported sugar).
“We need to make sure that traders withdraw first the molasses they purchased locally before bringing in the imported ones.
The idea is we will see once again who supports the local industry.”
Azcona said the agency will issue a moratorium on molasses imports before the start of the milling season on September 29
and a policy to control stocks. He said the agency will issue Molasses Orders (MOs). The last time the SRA issued an MO was in 2015, when the agency detailed the guidelines on molasses imports. The Foreign Agricultural Service of the United States Department of Agriculture said molasses is used in the manufacture of fuel ethanol, potable alcohol, and disinfectant.
It noted that molasses imports of the Philippines have steadily increased in the past three marketing years and that the country’s largest suppliers this year are Indonesia and Malaysia.
may cut sugar content of local canes by half’
HE red-striped softscale insects (RSSI) could slash the sugar content of infected canes in Negros by as much as 50 percent, based on the Sugar Regulatory Administration’s (SRA) latest findings.
SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona told the BusinessMirror that this could temper the agency’s outlook for raw sugar production in crop year 20252026, which will kick off on October 1. The impact, however, may be minimal.
“Those sugarcanes whose infestation was not that severe, the minimum drop in yield was 20 percent,” Azcona told this newspaper on the sidelines of the agriculture agency’s budget hearing last Monday.
“But those with severe infestation in the north of Negros, specifically in the Silay area, reached a 50-percent drop in yield.”
While the impact of RSSI on sugar content was the easiest to monitor, Azcona raised a caveat that the infestation’s impact could potentially trickle into the cane’s growth.
“In the North, they said canes that were infected at their
early stage didn’t seem to grow. So, maybe there’s also an effect on tonnage.”
The SRA projected that sugar production for the upcoming crop year, which has been moved to October 1, could reach 2 million metric tons (MMT). This forecast did not yet take into account the potential damage of RSSI on yield.
Upon the latest findings, however, Azcona noted that the agency now expects raw sugar output to fall by 10 percent.
“We reduced [our forecast)] a bit and then we’re leaving
room plus or minus a few percentage points, give or take about 10 percent, just in case the infestation can’t be curbed,” he said.
“Our fear is that once the milling starts, the sugarcanes will be going around all over Negros. There’s a high chance that the infestation will affect more areas.”
Currently, the SRA chief said the pest has infected around 6,600 hectares of sugar plantations nationwide, with the infestation in Negros Island accounting for the lion’s share at 4,200 hectares.
Azcona said some parts of
Davao, a budding sugarcane producer, recorded RSSI infestation in less than 10 hectares, while the remaining plantations affected were in Luzon.
The SRA issued Memorandum Circular (MC) 9, which stipulates the guidelines for the movement of planting materials amid the continued spread of RSSI.
“Given the present characteristic of RSSI as highly transmissible through infected planting materials, controlled movement of sugarcane plants and planting materials has become critical to prevent the further spread of pests.”
Under the circular, planters are required to have a permit to transport before the movement or transportation of sugarcane plants and materials.
Such a move would ensure that only pest-free and inspected planting materials are allowed to be shipped from one location to another, the SRA said.
However, the agency noted that the circular does not cover sugarcane transport to the mills for milling purposes. Ada Pelonia
Coffee nears record as speculators buy on Brazil crop fears
COFFEE futures hovered near an all-time high in choppy trading as market speculators bet on fears that tariffs and drought will lead to fewer supplies from top grower Brazil.
The most-active arabica contract in New York on Tuesday touched $4.24 a pound—just below the all-time high of $4.2995 reached in February. Futures are up about 50 percent since early August, supported by concerns that Brazilian supplies won’t be enough to fully replenish shrinking inventories.
The surge above $4 was driven by buying activity from market speculators in low volume conditions, according to a note from trader I & M Smith Ltd. The upward momentum triggered even more purchases, “with a void of selling activity to meet the upside.”
Speculative buying has increased “especially after the release of Brazilian export data for August and the continued drop in certified arabica stocks,” said Laleska Moda, an analyst at Hedgepoint Global Markets. “Shipments from Brazil are dropping in general to most destinations, but we saw a sharper drop to the US due to tariffs.” Arabica inventories at exchange-monitored warehouses
have fallen to the lowest since April 2024, underscoring supply tightness. Meanwhile, the market remains on edge over weather forecasts in Brazil. Coffee trader Sucafina SA sees a normal seasonal return to the Brazilian rainy season this week, quantitative trader Ilya Byzov said. But rains are so far expected to be too sparse to restore soil moisture in coffee-growing regions in the Southeast, according to a report
from Climatempo meteorologist Nadiara Pereira.
The Intercontinental Exchange on Monday raised its margin requirements for arabica contracts, a standard move in response to higher market volatility that can make it costlier for traders to maintain positions. The new outright margin requirement for the most-active December contract is now above $10,000, a 13-percent jump from the prior level.
Soymeal exporter
A KEY suitor for the assets of Vicentin SAIC, a distressed trader that was once Argentina’s top exporter of soy meal, wants it to feed pig herds at home rather than only crush beans to ship to livestock in Asia.
Creditors of Vicentin, which entered bankruptcy protection five years ago after a $1.5 billion default, will soon receive offers from suitors who’ll lay out plans to
restructure the debt and rekindle vast export operations.
Bidders include Bunge Global SA, as well as a joint venture between Louis Dreyfus Co. and local trader Molinos Agro SA, which is majority-owned by the billionaire Perez Companc dynasty. They’ll have competition from Grassi SA, a grains brokerage in Argentina’s main export hub that holds Vicentin’s distressed debt. It forced the case into the current legal process known as cramdown and has already rallied the support of some creditors.
Vicentin’s assets include a 33-percent stake in the world’s biggest soy plant, in Rosario, which can process more than 30,000 metric tons of beans a day.
“The first thing is to get Vicentin on its feet again,” Chief Executive Officer Mariano Grassi said on the family-run brokerage’s podcast over the weekend.
“In the second stage, which we don’t see as years away but right around the corner, we’ll start adding layers,” he said, citing integrating Vicentin into a domestic pork-farming venture as an example.
Argentina, the world’s No. 1 supplier of soy meal, currently exports nearly all of its production, much of it to feed farm animals in
Vietnam and Indonesia.
“If Vicentin forms part of a group with 100,000 sows, it would be a total investment, including the slaughterhouse, of about $1 billion,” Grassi said. “And our models show Vicentin’s Ebitda could almost double.”
Grassi is in talks to bring Cargill Inc. on board as a commercial partner if it wins control of Vicentin. Cargill’s earnings benefited from a joint meat venture, where it feeds crops to chicken. The Rosario-based company is already involved in a large Argentine pork business. There have been discussions for years in Argentina about trying to add more value to the country’s commodities exports, such as turning feed into animal protein, natural gas into petrochemicals, and lithium into batteries.
Grassi also revealed some of the terms he is preparing to offer to hundreds of crop suppliers who own Vicentin’s defaulted debt. They include smaller losses—or even none at all—for those who trade with Vicentin and help it to recover its standing as a major exporter.
“We’ve been the reason that all this has taken longer than expected,” Grassi said. “But we also hope to be the reason that things turn out well.” Bloomberg News
RED -striped soft scale insect (RSSI) crawlers--the wingless, newly hatched larval stage— spread stealthily across a sugarcane leaf in Negros Occidental.
The vital role of OFW remittances amidst economic uncertainty
THE recent report from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) revealing a 3 percent increase in remittances from Overseas Filipino Workers underscores the vital role these funds play in the country’s economy. With July 2025 witnessing a significant uptick to $3.18 billion, the resilience of remittances appears robust, driven by seasonal demand and job stability. However, lurking beneath this hopeful statistic are the shadows of geopolitical tensions and trade wars that threaten the livelihood of many OFWs. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Remittance flows steady, but trade war jitters a risk,” September 15, 2025).
Remittances have become a crucial safety net for Filipino households, particularly in times of economic distress. As noted by analysts, these inflows often increase during periods of disaster, providing families with much-needed financial support. The countercyclical nature of remittances, especially during the monsoon season when floods and destruction are commonplace, highlights their significance as a buffer against economic shocks. The economic implications of OFWs’ remittances extend beyond immediate household needs. They significantly contribute to food security and overall price stability. Unionbank Chief Economist Ruben Carlo O. Asuncion emphasizes that remittances allow families to maintain access to nutritious food amidst rising inflation. With the cost of a healthy diet increasing, the financial support from OFWs becomes even more critical for low-income families.
Despite the current growth in remittances, analysts caution about potential risks that could undermine this progress. Geopolitical tensions and the ramifications of trade wars pose significant threats to the job security of OFWs. Jeremaiah M. Opiniano from the Institute for Migration and Development Issues warns that higher tariffs could have delayed effects, impacting the ability of OFWs to send money home. Moreover, the pressure on OFWs to work harder and longer to maintain remittance levels raises concerns about their health and welfare. As families rely increasingly on these funds, the burden on workers abroad can become overwhelming, leading them to compromise their well-being in pursuit of financial stability.
It is essential for the government and relevant stakeholders to recognize the invaluable contributions of our OFWs and to create an environment that supports their welfare. Policies that address the challenges posed by geopolitical instability and economic uncertainty can help safeguard the livelihoods of these workers and, by extension, the families that depend on them.
Investing in programs that enhance the skills and options for OFWs can mitigate risks associated with fluctuating labor markets abroad. Additionally, fostering local economic opportunities can reduce dependency on remittances, allowing families to thrive regardless of external factors. While the rise in remittances offers a glimmer of hope, it is imperative to address the vulnerabilities that OFWs face. Their contributions are indispensable not only for our economy but also for the stability of countless families. As we celebrate the resilience of these workers, we must also advocate for their rights and well-being, ensuring that they are not left to shoulder the burdens of uncertainty alone. The strength of the Filipino spirit lies in its ability to adapt and persevere; it is time for policy to reflect that same resilience.
BusinessMirror
AI is not the enemy
AJohn Mangun
OUTSIDE THE BOX
RTIFICIAL Intelligence did not slip quietly into the classroom. It arrived like a vendor with a megaphone at a barangay fiesta, offering personalized tutoring, instant translations, and, of course, a free term paper in 30 seconds. Students embraced it with pragmatic enthusiasm. Professors responded with suspicion, as if guarding sacred manuscripts from digital heresy. The issue is not whether AI is useful—it is—but whether the convenience is creating a generation unable to write, reason, or even recognize its own ideas.
Is dependence on it eroding the brain muscles that education is supposed to build?
Last year, a Massachusetts Institute of Technology study of more than 1,000 college undergraduates found a 22 percent drop in writing quality among habitual AI users. Essays showed less originality and weaker reasoning. Some students could not recall their own “work.” Another MIT experiment with 54 adults used brain scans to show diminished engagement when writing with AI. The sample sizes are modest, but the warning is obvious. Outsource your thinking long enough, and the mind forgets how to climb the stairs and must use the escalator. A 2023 Stanford study echoed this pattern, noting reduced cognitive effort even when students revised AI drafts.
This is not education’s first technological panic. In the 1970s, teachers once mourned the death of the slide rule, fearing calculators would destroy mathematics. They adapted by shifting focus from arithmetic to problem-solving. The real danger is not technology itself but schools refusing to modernize. Assigning a 2019-style essay in 2025, without acknowledging AI, is like demanding a fax message in the age of e-mail. The fault lies with institutions designing assessments for a world that no longer exists.
In the United States, surveys show nearly 90 percent of students have used ChatGPT or its cousins for assignments. Singapore is spending more than US$1 billion embedding AI in schools, complete with teacher training and ethics instruction. Even
India, with uneven connectivity, uses AI to generate localized content in 22 official languages. The global conversation is no longer if AI belongs in schools, but how to use it responsibly.
The Philippines cannot afford to sit this one out. Internet penetration sits near 72 percent, yet DepEd assessments show fewer than 20 percent of public schools have adequate bandwidth and devices for advanced digital learning. Further, a 2024 survey by Instructure targeting Philippine higher education institutions, indicates that only 30 percent of university leaders are receptive to generative AI for classroom use. This implies limited teacher buy-in for responsible integration.
Critics accuse students of cheating. The problem is not student dishonesty but the absence of clear national frameworks. And the greater dishonesty is pretending education has not changed. If the only skill a diploma certifies is the ability to produce tool-free essays, then the diploma is already devalued. The Philippines should not aim to graduate students who merely write without AI, but citizens who can challenge, refine, and direct AI intelligently.
The stakes reach far beyond classrooms. Education is not only about diplomas. It is about economic survival.
The greatest irony is that in fearing AI will make students lazy, some institutions have taken the laziest path: prohibition. Outlawing Generative AI platforms is the intellectual
equivalent of forbidding Google for research or banning Excel spreadsheets in accounting. The smarter path is to redesign assessment: reward synthesis, demand critique of AI outputs, and make students prove they can spot bias, missing evidence, and flawed logic. Treat AI as the scaffolding, not the architect. Teachers either ban AI outright or ignore it, leaving students unguided in navigating a technology that is already shaping the workplace. Opportunities are staring us in the face. Imagine a Grade 10 student in Koronadal City receiving real-time feedback on an English essay even while thinking and structuring ideas in Hiligaynon. Or overworked teachers in Manila offloading administrative paperwork to AI so they can actually teach. These are not futuristic fantasies. The tools already exist. What is missing is coherent policy. What the Philippines needs are not graduates who merely avoid AI, but citizens who can command it. AI is not the enemy. Stagnation is. The challenge is not whether to allow AI in education, but whether we teach students to lead it. The world is moving quickly. Manila classrooms cannot afford to move slowly. Either we prepare our students to command this technology—or we condemn them to be commanded by it.
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.
Israel stocks start cracking as Netanyahu touts isolation
By Srinivasan Sivabalan, Galit Altstein & Tugce Ozsoy
ISRAELI stocks, which powered to successive record highs this year even as its war in Gaza ground on, are coming back down to earth as the country’s international isolation grows.
The Tel Aviv Stock Exchange 35 Index fell Tuesday for a fifth straight session, bringing its losses for the period to 2.6 percent. The selloff deepened after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged Israel’s seclusion and underscored the need for selfreliance to withstand any sanctions.
“The costs of endless wars on all fronts in terms of lost growth, emigration of human capital, worse international relations, greater domestic political polarization—and arguably—no better security all weigh on Israeli asset prices,” said Hasnain Malik, a strategist at Tellimer in Dubai. “PM Netanyahu’s latest speech that urges preparedness for more economic autarky reinforces those concerns.”
Netanyahu on Tuesday backtracked on his remarks which suggested that Israel will need to become more self-sufficient as it becomes more internationally isolated. “Isra-
el’s economy is strong and innovative and I have tremendous confidence in it,” said Netanyahu, speaking at a press conference in Jerusalem. “I say to international investors: get on board we’re about to take off.”
The Israeli premier clarified that in his speech yesterday he was specifically referring to security independence and was misunderstood in a way that “allegedly rattled markets,” then reiterated that Israel will build an independent, powerful arms industry to fulfill its military needs.
Investor sentiment is for now shifting from the resilience that took hold in the wake of Hamas’s Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel. After panic selling in the immediate aftermath, the Tel Aviv index rebounded and had rallied 83 percent through last week—adding more than $200 billion to shareholder wealth.
Stocks gained as investors bet on the economy avoiding a collapse, and
the country joined a global technology surge. Defense companies saw orders rise, and were rewarded with higher stock prices.
However, market optimism hit a wall in the past few days as Israel came under criticism from the US as well as a growing comity of friendly nations for its intense push into Gaza City and an attack in Qatar. Images of starvation deaths and widespread destruction fueled calls for an end to the war, both at home and abroad.
The market has missed out on the rally in global stocks driven by expectations for Federal Reserve interest rate cuts. The equity benchmark fell as much as 2.3 percent on Tuesday, before paring the slide to 0.3 percent.
The selloff spanned sectors, with 18 of the benchmark gauge’s 35 stocks falling. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. and Mizrahi Tefahot Bank Ltd. contributed the most to the drop.
Economic impact
THE Israeli Business Forum, whose members include the leaders of the nation’s largest companies, said Netanyahu is pushing Israel into a dangerous and unprecedented economic and political slump.
The latest economic data back the forum’s concerns: Israel’s preliminary annualized figures for gross domestic product in the second quarter showed a drop of 4 percent, according to the Central Bureau of Statistics. “Israel isn’t Sparta, such vision will make it difficult for us to survive in an evolving global world,” the forum said in a statement Tuesday. “The government must urgently promote ending the longest war in Israel’s history, the release of all hostages, and a date for elections.” Before the recent selloff, Israeli stocks had been among the world’s best performers this year. The TA35 index gained 26 percent through September 9, rising to a record high. But technical patterns signaled that those gains had overheated the market. The relative strength index, an indicator of momentum on the equity benchmark, traded near a threshold often seen in overbought markets. Another signal called the moving average convergence-divergence witnessed a bearish crossover. Israel’s other assets were mixed on Tuesday. The shekel was up, and sovereign dollar bonds were little changed. Bloomberg
Microsoft, OpenAI herald Trump’s UK visit with AI pledges
By Mark Bergen, Ian King & Dina Bass
MICROSOFT Corp., OpenAI and other American companies announced plans to spend tens of billions of dollars on technology infrastructure in the UK, part of a series of business deals that coincide with President Donald Trump’s visit to the nation this week.
The tech giants are dedicating more than £31 billion ($42.3 billion) to artificial intelligence systems, quantum computing initiatives and other tech projects, the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology said in a statement on Tuesday. Joining Trump on the visit are several Silicon Valley luminaries, including Nvidia Corp. Chief Executive Officer Jensen Huang and Sam Altman from OpenAI, which is also bringing its Stargate program to the UK. The announcements bolster an effort by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to strengthen ties with the US and boost technology growth. He’s pledged to fast-track planning approval for data centers and ease access to the power grid in the UK, which has some of the most expensive electricity in Europe. The UK government also said it’s opening a new AI Growth Zone, a data center facility that Starmer’s Labour Party has argued will bring jobs to the country.
“The two countries are now pairing up,” Kanishka Narayan, an undersecretary for the UK’s science department, said in a press briefing. “At the heart of it, it’s a focus not just on the history of our special relationship but on our future.”
With the Silicon Valley deals, Starmer is avoiding a tactic used by some European nations, notably France, which has promoted homegrown AI firms and signaled its independence from US technology. OpenAI is at the center of a $500 billion Stargate AI infrastructure project that Trump announced in January. The AI company has said that it will take its Stargate effort to other countries. For the British site, OpenAI and its partners will be hosting as many as 60,000 of Nvidia’s latest Blackwell chips at a supercomputing facility in Loughton, outside of London, according to the UK government. Narayan declined to say how much the companies would be investing in the project.
Here are some of the other announcements:
Microsoft has agreed to spend $30 billion over four years on AI infrastructure and its existing business in the UK—in what the software company called its largest financial commitment to Britain.
As part of the deal, it will build a supercomputer with more than 23,000 advanced graphics processing units, the chips used to power artificial intelligence software. It’s working in partnership with British data center company Nscale Global Holdings Ltd.
Nvidia said its technology will be part of an £11 billion investment in AI data centers inside and outside of the UK. It’s working with Nscale and CoreWeave Inc. on new facilities that will deploy 120,000 AI accelerator chips in
OpenAI is at the center of a $500 billion Stargate AI infrastructure project that Trump announced in January. The AI company has said that it will take its Stargate effort to other countries. For the British site, OpenAI and its partners will be hosting as many as 60,000 of Nvidia’s latest Blackwell chips at a supercomputing facility in Loughton, outside of London, according to the UK government. Narayan declined to say how much the companies would be investing in the project.
the UK by 2026. Nscale is using Nvidia chips in its home country and other nations as part of a 300,000-chip-based computer build-out that the US company said will make it “a global infrastructure player.” Nvidia said that it’s investing in “accelerating the AI industrial revolution in the United Kingdom,” but declined to specify how much money it’s spending and in what manner.
CoreWeave, which supplies data center capacity to companies like OpenAI, said it will invest £1.5 billion in the UK. It’s working with Nvidia and Scottish data center company DataVita Ltd. to put its technology in a DataVita-owned facility in Chapelhall. That data center, which runs on renewable energy, will deliver 31 megawatts of capacity and be online starting in the first quarter. CoreWeave’s spending comes on top of £1 billion the company is already investing in the UK at two sites—London Docklands and Crawley.
Salesforce Inc., a seller of customer relationship software, said it will spend an additional $2 billion in the UK through 2030. That’s an extension of its five-year, $4 billion program announced in 2023.
Earlier in the week, Alphabet Inc.’s Google said it would spend £5 billion over two years in the UK, including opening a data center in Hertfordshire. BlackRock Inc. said it will invest £500 million into data centers. The company’s CEO, Larry Fink, is joining Trump in the UK. The UK joins other countries around the world in trying to build out local artificial intelligence infrastructure—what’s known as sovereign AI. Nvidia, the world’s most valuable company, sees this trend as key to its future growth.
Though the Santa Clara, California-based chipmaker has already seen meteoric sales increases in the past two years, it gets much of its revenue from a handful of giant data center operators. The sovereign AI push will contribute to as much as $4 trillion in AI spending by the end of the decade, Huang has said. With assistance from Brody Ford and Matt Day/Bloomberg
Former BLS chief recounts shock of getting fired over jobs data
By Molly Smith
ERIKA MCENTARFER, who was fired as commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics last month, said official notice of her dismissal came as a complete surprise in a short email from the White House.
On August 1, several hours after her agency reported weak jobs growth in July and substantial downward revisions to the prior two months, McEntarfer said she was contacted by a reporter requesting comment on a social media post from President Donald Trump calling for her immediate firing.
“To be honest, I didn’t actually believe I had been fired,” McEntarfer said in prepared remarks at an event Tuesday at her alma mater, Bard College.
That’s when she noticed a message in her inbox that arrived 20 minutes earlier from the White House Office of Presidential Personnel. The twosentence e-mail, which was seen by Bloomberg News, read as follows:
Dr. McEntarfer,
On behalf of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position as Commissioner of Labor Statistics is terminated effective immediately. Thank you for your service.
The event marks McEntarfer’s first public appearance since her dismissal. In her prepared remarks, the economist recalls the disbelief that ensued on a day that started as a typical first Friday of the month—when the government’s monthly employment report is published.
Her very public firing from the relatively obscure, technocratic role has set off concerns on Wall Street
and in Washington about the independence and integrity of the nation’s gold standard economic data.
In his initial post around 2 p.m. and another later that afternoon, Trump claimed, without evidence, that the figures were manipulated for political purposes, and stressed that the numbers must be “fair and accurate.”
In reality, commissioners are barely involved in the highly computerized processes of compiling data. Past officials who held the job before McEntarfer have said they would only see the numbers once they’re finalized, not long before the president does.
‘Glum’ faces
MCENTARFER said that she briefed the White House on the report the day before it was published, and spoke to the head of the Labor Department, which oversees the BLS, at 8 a.m. that Friday morning, half an hour before the release.
“I explained to the Secretary that the negative skew in job growth among the late reporting firms was an unusual event, but not an unprecedented one,” McEntarfer said in her remarks. While that can indicate the start of a recession, she said she explained that wasn’t necessarily the case this time around as other labor data were holding up.
“The faces around the table were
glum. Let’s face it, this isn’t the kind of news that any administration wants to hear,” she continued. “I asked if anyone had any questions on the revisions before we moved on to the July numbers. There were none, so we moved on.”
Shortly after the report came out, Labor Secretary Lori ChavezDeRemer said on Bloomberg Television that while the revisions were “unexpected,” they were mostly concentrated in education and the seasonal workforce. She largely focused on positive aspects of the economy, including all the jobs added since Trump took office and that he delivered on trade deals, which was similar to her official statement on the jobs data.
By that afternoon, she raised her concerns about the revisions in a post on X supporting Trump’s decision to dismiss McEntarfer: “I agree wholeheartedly with @POTUS that our jobs numbers must be fair, accurate, and never manipulated for political purposes.”
Trump has since picked EJ Antoni, chief economist at the Heritage Foundation, to step into the role. His choice drew criticism from professional peers of both political ideologies for his vocal MAGA views and lack of experience. Antoni is awaiting a Senate confirmation hearing, and it’s unclear whether he will secure the necessary support given “extreme reservations” from a key Republican senator.
More revisions
SINCE McEntarfer’s dismissal, the BLS has revised jobs data further and drawn additional criticism from the White House, which called the preliminary benchmark revisions re-
Parents slam OpenAI, Character.AI over safety in US Senate hearing
By Oma Seddiq
THE father of a teenager who died by suicide this spring delivered emotional congressional testimony Tuesday, alleging OpenAI’s ChatGPT “groomed” his 16-year-old son to take his own life and the company prioritized speed and market share over youth safety.
“We’re here because we believe that Adam’s death was avoidable, and that by speaking out we can prevent the same suffering for families across the country,” Adam’s father, Matthew Raine, with his wife Maria seated behind him, told a US Senate panel.
The testimony comes weeks after the Raine parents claimed ChatGPT isolated their son and guided him to his death in a lawsuit filed against OpenAI and chief executive Sam Altman. The suit, along with Raine’s testimony, alleged that ChatGPT encouraged and validated harmful ideas and altered Adam’s behavior through a series of interactions over several months. Adam, a high school student in California, died by suicide in April.
OpenAI and other leading artificial intelligence companies, including Alphabet Inc.’s Google and Meta Platforms Inc., have come under fire in recent months over their chatbots’ risks to young users. The Federal Trade Commission last week
launched an investigation into those companies as well as Elon Musk’s xAI, Snap Inc., and Character Technologies Inc., over potential harms their chatbots pose to children.
The Trump administration has worked to maintain US AI dominance in the face of growing competition from China with a more hands-off approach to regulating the technology. But recent litigation against AI companies, and rising concerns from parents, threaten to revive a push to rein in AI developers.
Earlier Tuesday, Altman shared in a blog post that OpenAI plans to roll out new safety measures for teens, including age-prediction technology that would identify users under 18 and direct them to a different version of the chatbot. Additional controls will allow parents to set blackout hours between which teenage users on linked family accounts cannot access the product, and restrictions on conversations about suicide and self-harm.
Another parent, under the pseudonym Jane Doe, spoke publicly for the first time Tuesday since suing Character.AI last fall. The witness said the company’s chatbot had exposed her son to sexual exploitation, emotional abuse and manipulation. Doe alleged that within months of use he became someone she didn’t recognize, developed abusive behavior and engaged in self-harm. Her son is currently living under supervision at a treatment center, she said.
Megan Garcia, the mother of 14-year-old Sewell Setzer III who died by suicide in February 2024, also testified about the harms her late son faced using Character.AI. She alleged that his death “was the result of prolonged abuse,” including sexual abuse, by the chatbot. Garcia last fall sued Character.AI, and a federal judge in May rejected the company’s bid to dismiss the suit.
“They have intentionally designed their products to hook our children. They give these chatbots anthropomorphic mannerisms to seem human,” Garcia told senators. Sen. Josh Hawley, a Missouri Republican who chaired the hearing, said several tech companies, including Meta, were invited to attend as well. The senator last month launched an investigation into Meta over reports that its chatbots can
Trump flight to London has close encounter with Spirit jet
By Julie Johnsson
Aleased September 9 “another blunder in the lengthy history of inaccuracies and incompetence at BLS.” Economists and statisticians say that monthly payrolls revisions are routine, because the BLS continues to collect additional information from businesses that take longer to respond to the survey. Revisions ultimately make the data more accurate. The agency has long struggled with tight budgets and staffing constraints—both of which predate Trump, but have grown more acute in his second term. The agency is increasingly relying on a statistical guessing method in a key inflation gauge to compensate for lost staff, though was recently allowed to post jobs for some workers to collect price data.
Those data collection issues, as well as the employment revisions, prompted a review of the agency’s “challenges” last week by the Labor Department’s Office of Inspector General.
McEntarfer was nominated by President Joe Biden in 2023 and approved with bipartisan Senate support the following year. She arrived at the agency with over 20 years of experience in the federal government, including roles at the Census Bureau and Treasury Department. She previously served as a senior economist at the White House Council of Economic Advisers under Biden.
She called her firing a “dangerous step” that has “serious economic consequences.”
“That’s an attack on the independence of an institution arguably as important as the Federal Reserve for economic stability,” she said. Bloomberg
have “sensual” conversations with children. Republican Sen. Marsha Blackburn, a fierce champion of kids’ online safety, implored Meta executives to call her office or potentially face a subpoena.
Amid the AI boom, US lawmakers have grappled with widespread concerns over threats to children’s safety, yet they have failed to pass comprehensive measures to require companies to strengthen online protections for kids and teens. President Donald Trump signed into law this spring one targeted bill to criminalize the spread of non-consensual deepfake pornography, responding to an increase in unauthorized, fabricated explicit content online, particularly of girls and women. The parents, along with online safety advocates testifying Tuesday, called on Congress to act further to prevent harm to young people on the internet. Some proposals floated were more parental controls, reminders to teens that AI isn’t human, increased user data privacy, and age verification requirements. Other broader measures included blocking teens from interacting with AI chatbots as so-called companions, and embedding AI systems with values and morals to behave ethically and responsibly. With assistance from Rachel Metz/Bloomberg
radio reprimands by the New York-based controller.
Trump arrived in the London late Tuesday for a state visit that includes a meeting with King Charles at Windsor Castle and expected plans by US companies to spend tens of billions of dollars on technology infrastructure in the UK.
While the aircraft remained miles apart and were never in danger of exceeding safety thresholds, the encounter attracted attention on social media both for the famous presidential aircraft— and the increasingly testy radio reprimands by the New Yorkbased controller.
SPIRIT Airlines Inc. passenger jet got a little too close for comfort with a Boeing Co. 747 jumbo ferrying US President Donald Trump to
Thursday, September 18, 2025 RICE ARRIVALS BREACH 3MMT 4 DAYS BEFORE IMPORTS BAN
WTO fisheries subsidy pact in force, seen to favor PHL
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
THEPhilippines is keen on tapping the over $18-million Fish Fund under the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement to ensure the country’s longterm food security and competitiveness in global seafood markets.
In a statement, the Department of Trade and Industry-Bureau of International Trade Relations (DTI-BITR) welcomed the entry into force of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies which entered into force on September 15,2025 following the completion of the instrument of acceptance deposited by 112 WTO Members.
DTI-BITR said the Agreement is complemented by a Fisheries Funding Mechanism that offers technical assistance and “capacity building” to developing and least developed countries for effective implementation.
To date, WTO Members have pledged more than $18 million to the WTO Fish Fund.
The international trade relations
arm of DTI explained that this funding mechanism “presents an important opportunity to enhance fisheries management, strengthen monitoring against IUU fishing, and support smallscale fishers, while also helping align domestic measures with international sustainability commitments.”
Accessing the Fund, said the agency, would help the Philippines determine its “capacity-building” requirements through a needs-assessment analysis to identify and address resource gaps.
This would help the country in ensuring that “our reforms contribute to both the sustainable use of marine resources and the country’s longterm food security and competitive-
DND eyes loans for AFP upgrade as ’26 budget cut to ₧295B
By Erwin James T. Gianan
THE Department of National Defense (DND) may need to borrow from various sources to proceed with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization after its proposed budget was reduced in the National Expenditure Program (NEP).
The AFP Modernization Program, which aims to upgrade the capabilities of the Philippine armed forces, is currently on its Re-Horizon 3 Phase, to run from 2023 to 2028.
The DND first proposed a budget of P342 billion from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), which was then brought down 14 percent less to the present P295 billion.
“We agreed with the DBM, should there be any acquisition that we need, we will resort to multilateral or syndicated loans or borrowings. Secretary Recto, Secretary Pangandaman and I will work for the sourcing of the funds,” Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said in a recent budget hearing at the House of Representatives, referring to the secretaries of finance and of budget and management.
In the 2025 GAA, the Modernization Program’s unprogrammed funds were allocated P40 billion, or P5 billion higher than the programmed funds. This year, the proposed budget for unprogrammed funds in the NEP is P50 billion, P10 million higher than the amount allocated for programmed funds.
At the budget hearing, Rep. Isidro Ungab expressed concern over the AFP Modernization Program, wherein the unprogrammed funds had overtaken the programmed funds for the program.
“The program appropriations last year in the NEP was P50 billion. Just here in the House, on the third reading, it was slashed by P10 billion. When it reached BiCam [bicameral conference committee], another P5 billion. First time in history that the unprogrammed funds exceeded the programmed funds. I hope we can reverse that trend,” Ungab said, speak-
ing partly in Filipino.
Asked whether the P40 billion of unprogrammed funds from last year’s general appropriations have been released, a representative from the DBM said that there has been no release from the unprogrammed fund, as well as no request from the DND to release such funds.
With more than half of program funding dedicated to unprogrammed funds, the DND said it will have to wait for excess government revenue before it is released.
“Our modernization now, about 90 percent goes for existing repayments of past acquisitions. And we hesitate to pull the trigger on new ones because then, our continuing recurring needs to service new obligations will [increase],” Teodoro said.
The DND proposed a P295.177billion budget for the Department of National Defense for Fiscal Year 2026 NEP, 16 percent bigger than last year’s NEP budget of P254.12 billion at the House Committee on Appropriations budget hearing.
More than half of the budget will be dedicated to Personnel Services at P167 billion, P94 billion will go to Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE), and P33 billion, to Capital Outlay.
The MOOE, however, will get the highest increase in the proposed budget at P94 million, 18.44 percent higher than last year’s budget in the General Appropriations Act (GAA) at P79.3 million.
“We need to acclimatize the government to approximate the maintenance and operating expenditures we will need to adequately use the previously-ordered capabilities that are arriving,” Teodoro said.
The bulk of the increase in budget will go to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, with a 16.54-percent increase at P282.9 billion, about 95 percent of the DND’s expenditure. Of the agencies, both the Government Arsenal and the National Defense College of the Philippines received a 1.96- and 3.51-percent cut in budgeting to P2.35 million and P310,011 respectively.
ness in global seafood markets.”
Moreover, the Philippine Trade department’s international trade relations arm said these efforts reflect the country’s determination to align domestic fisheries policies with its international commitments.
The Agreement, which required two-thirds of WTO members to formally accept the Protocol, was initially adopted at the WTO’s 12th Ministerial Conference in June 2022.
The Philippines officially became the 70th member to deposit its instrument of acceptance at the sidelines of the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference in February 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
DTI-BITR noted that this agreement, which it dubbed “the first multilateral trade agreement with environmental sustainability at its core,” prohibits subsidies that contribute to illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
“It bans subsidies that support fishing of overfished stocks and activities on unregulated high seas,” the DTI-BITR also noted.
Citing WTO, it said governments provide an estimated $22 billion annually in harmful subsidies that drive overcapacity and threaten the sustainability of marine resources.
“Its entry into force underscores the WTO’s ability to continue delivering solutions to global challenges,” DTI-BITR said.
For the Philippines, a country where fisheries are “central to livelihood and food security,” DTI-BITR said the entry into force of the Agreement strengthens global efforts to protect marine resources and promote fair competition for small-scale and artisanal fishers.
It also underscores the country’s strong commitment to promoting ocean sustainability and ensuring that fisheries subsidies support longterm economic growth and environmental resilience.
Former Tariff Commissioner George N. Manzano explained to this newspaper how the Philippines can benefit from this agreement.
“This agreement can benefit the Philippines by a imposing disciplines on nations with trading fleets [Japan, China, etc.] on handling out subsidies to their fleets,” Manzano told the BusinessMirror in a Viber message on Wednesday.
Thus, he added, “it levels the competition,” explaining further that compared to Japan or EU, Philippines does not have “massive” fishing fleets
See “WTO,” A2
RBy Ada Pelonia
ICE arrivals breached 3 million metric tons (MMT) four days before the Philippines officially closed its borders to regular and wellmilled imports of the staple grain.
Data from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) showed that 3.1 MMT of rice shipments have entered the country as of September 11, a few days before the cutoff on September 15.
Of this, BPI data indicated that 2.47 MMT came from Vietnam, which maintains its spot as the country’s top supplier. Myanmar followed, accounting for 340,640.33 MT.
The Philippines also purchased rice stocks from other countries such as Thailand (164,010.26 MT), Pakistan (76,344.02 MT), and India (19,931.45 MT).
Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa had said that only rice shipments that left their respective countries of origin by the end of August would be allowed entry into the Philippines, citing an order issued by the BPI.
He noted that the BPI would no longer issue sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances (SPSICs) starting September 1.
This, following an Executive
Order (EO) issued by President Marcos, which suspended the imports of regular and wellmilled rice until October 30, 2025.
However, de Mesa said that rice shipments that left the country of origin before the ban started can still enter the Philippines until September 15. Specialty rice varieties, such as Japonica, glutinous, and basmati rice, will be exempt from the ban.
The DA official added that only four ports would cater to rice imports arriving before the cutoff. These are the Ports of Manila, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and Cebu.
“So, if shipments left the country beyond August 31, they won’t be allowed to enter. If they ever arrive [beyond the allowable period], these will be returned to the country of origin,” de Mesa said in a previous interview.
Meanwhile, the BPI approved and issued 267 SPSICs in August for the purchase of 482,723.99 MT of imported rice. Of this, 258 were used, translating to 369,901.23 MT rice arrivals. The agency also approved 27 SPSICs as of September 10, which De Mesa said were import clearances that covered specialty rice varieties.
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
THE University of the Philippines’ research think tank has renewed its decades-old proposal to designate the entire Spratly Islands as an international marine peace park, following China’s unilateral declaration of Bajo de Masinloc as a national nature reserve—an act Manila condemned as a violation of Philippine sovereignty.
In a newly released paper titled “The Proposed Spratly Islands Marine Park: A History,” the UP Center for Integrative and Develop -
ment Studies (UP CIDS) warned of irreversible ecological damage in the South China Sea and called for u rgent multilateral cooperation to protect the region’s marine biodiversity.
UP CIDS authors said Filipino scientists have long proposed the marine peace park, with then President Fidel Ramos endorsing the initiative in 1994—“but the Philippine Congress has never acted on the matter.” That legislative inaction, they argue, persists even as environmental degradation accelerates and geopolitical tensions escalate across the region.
The Spratly Islands are a disputed cluster of reefs and islets in the South China Sea, with several features claimed by the Philippines as part of its Kalayaan Island Group. Despite being largely uninhabited, the archipelago is also claimed by China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan—making it one of the region’s most contested maritime zones due to its rich fisheries, strategic location, and untapped energy reserves.
China’s shoal declaration THE renewed push comes just days after China approved the es-
tablishment of the “Huangyan Island National Nature Reserve” at Scarborough Shoal—known in the Philippines as Bajo de Masinloc. The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) denounced the move as an “unlawful encroachment,” asserting that the shoal lies within the country’s 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and is an “integral part of Philippine territory.”
China’s reserve declaration, framed as a conservation effort, is
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
Sumitomo Osaka acquires 15% stake in Philcement
By VG Cabuag @villygc
PHINMA Corp.’s subsidiary Philcement Corp. on Wednesday said it signed a share subscription agreement with Sumitomo Osaka Cement Co. Ltd. to sell 15 percent of the company through the issuance of primary shares.
Sumitomo is a leading cement manufacturing company from Japan with over a hundred years of experience in the industry.
“The transaction will be closed before the end of the year, subject to the satisfaction of closing conditions,” the company said.
“The transaction is aligned with Philcement’s strategy and commitment to grow its manufacturing operations and provide Filipino consumers with reliable, high-quality supply of cement products under its legacy brand, Union Cement.” Upon closing of the transaction,
Phinma will remain as the majority shareholder of the cement firm with 60 percent.
Philcement is engaged in the manufacture, importation, processing, distribution, and sale of cement products.
Phinma said earlier it will allot some P5 billion for its ongoing projects. Edmund Alan A. Qua Hiansen, the company’s CFO, said the projects include the Saludad project in Bacolod, the Davao terminal for Philcement and the insulated panels factory in Porac in Pampanga.
“We like the Bacolod market; the sales pickup has been good. In Davao we’ve already broken ground late last year, and so that’s on track. We have the insulated panels factory… and that is also on track to start commercial operations next year,” Hiansen said.
He said the company may launch its Davao community housing project later this year, and another one in Bacolod that the company may launch in early 2026.
Phinma, he said, is allocating some P250 million in investment for the two projects.
“Then we’ll see how those first two do before we look at putting more. But it’s something we want to do in a very big way,” he said.
Last May, Phinma reported that its net income went up by 27 percent to P562.62 million in the first quarter from the previous year’s P490.53 million, despite the losses incurred by its construction group and property development arm.
Consolidated revenues hit P6.60 billion, a 21-percent increase from P5.45 billion last year, the company said.
NGCP: Transmission rates up in Sept
TBy Lenie Lectura @llectura
RANSMISSION rates tucked in the September bill of electricity consumers rose by 7.09 percent this to P1.417 per kilowatt hour (kWh), the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) said on Wednesday.
Both components—ancillary service (AS) rates and transmission wheeling rates—of the transmission rates went up. However, it was the AS that mainly pushed overall transmission rate.
AS rates ballooned by 13.4 percent to P0.666 per kWh from P0.587 per kWh in the previous month.
AS rates are pass-through costs for power supplied by AS providers
during supply-demand imbalance. Charges are remitted directly to generating companies with bilateral contracts with NGCP, and to the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) for AS sourced from the Reserve Market.
“NGCP does not earn from AS and does not benefit from changes in AS prices,” the grid operator said.
Transmission wheeling rates, meanwhile, went up by 0.8 percent to P0.597 per kWh. This is the fee for delivering power through its grid.
“For August 2025, NGCP charges only about P0.5970/kWh for its transmission service, while ancillary services remain the biggest component of transmission-related costs,” the grid operator said.
The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco)
reported an overall power rate of P13.0851 per kWh this month. Of which, generation charge declined by P0.2603 per kWh while transmission charge, another pass-through component of the electricity bill, went up due to higher ancillary service charges from the Reserve Market.
Meralco said the generation charge declined by P0.2603 per kWh due mainly to lower costs from Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and Power Supply Agreements (PSAs).
Charges from IPPs went down by P1.3459 per kWh, while PSAs dropped by P0.3660 per kWh, driven by the peso’s appreciation against the US dollar and falling international fuel prices.
Meanwhile, WESM charges rose by P0.3785 per kWh as average de-
PCC to monitor Grab driver perks program
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
THE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) said it will continue to monitor Grab Holdings Inc.’s incentive scheme for its drivers to ensure that the firm promotes fair competition in the ride-hailing market.
In a statement on Wednesday, PCC said Grab and MyTaxi.PH Inc. signed the 2025 Undertaking last Tuesday.
“Under the 2025 Undertaking, Grab commits to subject its 15th and 16th quarterly compliance reports to review by a third-party monitor appointed by the PCC, covering the period of 01 May 2023 to 31 October 2023,” the antitrust body said.
PCC will assess whether Grab’s incentive schemes violate its “nonexclusivity” commitments by discouraging drivers and operators
from joining competing platforms.
The assessment, it added, will be guided by an incentives monitoring framework and several other factors, such as trip requirements, duration of incentive policies, coverage, and market behavior.
PCC pointed out that should its “effects-based” assessment determine that Grab’s incentives violate the Philippine Competition Act, the commission “shall have the authority to take enforcement action and impose penalties.”
The agency said the 2025 Undertaking is effective for one year and applies “exclusively” to GrabCar operations in Metro Manila.
“It reflects PCC’s commitment to maintaining a competitive environment in the digital transport sector, ensuring that commuters benefit from choice, transparency, and fair market conditions.”
This undertaking can be traced back to the time when PCC rendered a Commitment Decision on Grab’s acquisition of rival Uber on August 10, 2018.
The agency found that the dominance of the merged firms remained “unchallenged” and “competition has not improved in the ride-hailing market.”
Based on the 2019 statement issued by PCC which extended the “voluntary commitments” of Grab, one of the commitments was Incentives Monitoring Commitment.
Under this premise, PCC noted: “Since incentives may induce drivers to remain exclusive to Grab, and thus affect its competitors’ conditions of entry and ability to expand, the Commission shall monitor and evaluate Grab’s incentives on the basis of mandatory quarterly reports.”
mand in the Luzon grid and generation capacity on outage rose by 182 MW and 132 MW, respectively.
GCASH on Wednesday said it has upgraded its GStocks feature in its application with its new partner InvestaTrade, the stock trading arm of Investa.
GStocks introduces a simplified investing experience within the GCash app, allowing users to register, fund their accounts and start investing in local stocks in just a few minutes, the company said.
“Financial tools only work if people actually feel ready to use them. This partnership is about meeting people where they are and giving them room to grow at their own pace,” Arjun Varma, general manager for wealth management at GCash, said.
“Our goal has always been to use technology to break down barriers to investing. With GStocks PH and InvestaTrade, we’re making it easier for more Filipinos to take that first step with tools designed to help jumpstart their financial journey.”
Filipinos’ participation in the stock market is still not widespread, despite being available in fintech apps, including GCash and Maya.
According to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), the number of stock market accounts in the PSE reached 2.86 million, with 99 percent belonging to local investors as of June 2024. This represents only about 4.1 percent of the country’s roughly 70 million adult population, and only a handful of them are individual investors.
GCash, operated by Globe Fintech Innovations Inc., said it aims to drive stronger literacy and ease stock selection with a more intuitive platform that features built-in educational content. The platform is also designed to be as user-friendly and accessible as possible, even to first-time investors, the company said.
“The partnership with InvestaTrade brings additional credibility and community-based learning to the platform.”
Since 2015, Investa has built a reputation for offering accessible tools, market insights, and educational content aimed at helping everyday Filipinos make sense of the stock market. VG Cabuag
FOR Filipinos, “Ber months” mark the start of the festivities for the holiday season, with the Philippines having the longest Christmas celebration anywhere in the world.
During this period, economic activities boom with higher inbound remittances, increased consumer spending on gifts for loved ones and other holiday purchases. With more cash circulating and the rising transaction volumes, likelihood of fraud is higher too.
The flip side of this extended celebration and financial behavior are accompanying risks such as debt accumulation due to overspending, falling victim to online scams and fraud attacks if financial transactions, especially online payments, are not done with caution. Reports from late 2024 showed elevated fraud cases related to online shopping, loan and rewards schemes, phishing and investment fraud, with December being the peak month. Considering that fraud incidents shoot up during the “Ber” months, financial institutions, the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) are intensifying public awareness and education campaigns to remind the public to stay vigilant.
Scammers are becoming more sophisticated in sending phishing emails, text and social media messages to obtain personal information and trick consumers into providing bank account and credit card details. They now leverage new technologies like AI to create realistic voice clones and deepfake videos to appear convincingly real and impersonate real people and trusted sources. These social engineering scams also utilize psychological manipulation exploiting vulnerabilities in human behavior, no longer technical weaknesses.
The best way to combat these fraud risks is to practice “CheckProtect-Report,” or “CPR,” at all times. Don’t click links: Remember that banks and e-money issuers will
Banking&Finance Banks vow to back MSMEs as mandatory credit ceases
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
Tnever send links via SMS, email or messaging apps. If you receive a link from your bank, a merchant or telco, especially prompting you to provide personal information and act with urgency, it’s a scam! Do not also share your one-time passwords (OTPs) because sharing the OTP will compromise your financial security and will allow fraudsters to takeover your bank account or credit card.
Be skeptical, stay informed and keep your personal information safe! Verify website URLs, use only secure payment methods, enable two-factor authentication (static password and an OTP), be wary about too-good-tobe-true deals or offers, and regularly check your financial statements and credit card running balances.
If you suspect fraud or in case your bank account or personal information gets compromised, contact your bank or e-money issuer immediately to report. If unresolved, incidents can be escalated to the BSP Consumer Protection and Market Conduct Office by emailing consumeraffairs@ bsp.gov.ph and to other appropriate reporting channels such as the DICT Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center and the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group Complaint Action Center.
The BSP also has a mobile app, the BSP Online Buddy (BOB), which can be downloaded from Apple App Store or Google Play, or accessed through the BSP website and FB Messenger. Don’t let scammers steal your holiday cheer! Don’t be a victim and protect your hard-earned money. Never let your guard down and don’t be too quick to click.
Mai Gacilo Sangalang is the immediate past president of BMAP and currently its Director for Industry Relations, Banking Code and Financial Inclusion. Sangalang is the Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing of Standard Chartered Bank Philippines. She can be reached by emailing maigsangalang@yahoo.com. The writer’s views do not necessarily reflect those of Standard Chartered Bank, the BusinessMirror and the BMAP.
DBM tightens funding rules for infra projects
THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has tightened the rules for the release of cash allocations for infrastructure projects, requiring heads of agencies to certify under oath the accuracy of accounts payable to uphold fiscal integrity.
Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman issued National Budget Circular (NBC) 595-A on September 12 to amend the guidelines on the release of funds for infrastructure projects for fiscal year 2025.
“In the interest of ensuring transparency, accountability, and fiscal discipline in the management of public funds, it is imperative that all financial reports and submissions to oversight agencies are truthful, accurate, and supported by complete documentation,” the circular read.
As such, heads of agencies and implementing units are required to certify the accuracy of the accounts payable to strengthen internal controls, guard against erroneous, inflated, or fraudulent claims and reinforce the responsibility of management to uphold fiscal integrity.
Specifically, Item 4.2 of NBC No. 595 is changed to: “For infrastructure projects, all agencies are required to submit a certification in the form provided in Attachment IV, in support of the request for the release of NCA for accounts payable or due and demandable obligations.”
The attachment is a certification of heads of agencies or implementing units under oath that the accounts payable or obligations are valid, legal and consistent with approved plans, specifications, standards and laws. Heads of agencies will assume full responsibility for the veracity and accuracy of each accounts payable and the authenticity of the submitted supporting documents.
Moreover, the projects must also not be fully funded from other sources, and all required government permits and clearances must have been secured.
All departments, agencies and operating units of the national government, other offices under the Constitutional Fiscal Autonomy Group, state universities and colleges (SUCs), as well as government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs), local government units (LGUs) receiving budgetary support from the national government from all sources of appropriations in 2025 will be covered by the circular. Under Section 18 of the General Provisions of the 2025 General Appropriations Act, in the implementation of programs, activities or projects in this law, all heads of agencies of the government, including GOCCs, SUCs and LGUs, are responsible for all government funds and property pertaining to their agencies. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
HE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said that while the mandatory credit allocation for small businesses has expired, Philippine banks remained committed to providing them with financing support.
BSP said the mandatory credit under the Magna Carta for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) expired on 16 June 2018.
This previously required banks to allocate at least eight percent of their loan portfolios to MSMEs.
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has exposed a new draft circular that seeks to revise the Manual of Regulations for Banks (MORB) on Reporting Governance.
With the proposed guidelines, BSP said banks are expected to adopt a sound reporting governance framework that promotes integrity, accuracy and timeliness in the regulatory reports they submit.
“The revised reporting governance framework clarifies supervisory expectations, outlining the roles of the Board, Senior Management, and Oversight Committees,” BSP said in an explanatory note on the draft circular.
“The growth in MSME credit exposures (reflect) the continuing support of the banking system to MSMEs,” BSP said.
BSP said it continues to monitor banks’ MSME lending through quarterly exposure reports submitted
“The framework shifts focus from defining specific reporting violations—such as erroneous, delayed, or unsubmitted reports—to providing clear criteria for what constitutes an acceptable report, which include completeness, accuracy, timeliness, and adaptability,” read the central bank’s document.
According to the BSP, the draft guidelines also include provisions to align penalties with bank sizes with the aim of reflecting their systemic importance and risk proportionality. The revised MORB would also remove the categorization of reports and the distinction between primary and secondary reports. The rules would also modify
LandBank eyes
issuance of sustainability bonds in Q4 to raise over ₧20B
THE state-run Land Bank of the Philippines (Landbank) is set to issue sustainability bonds in the fourth quarter of this year, targeting to raise more than P20 billion.
On the sidelines of the “GOCC Day” in Malacañang Palace last Tuesday, LandBank President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz told reporters that the bank is preparing to tap the capital market this year.
“We’re just timing [the] execution and making sure that we issue at the right window,” Ortiz said.
She noted that while the final amount to be raised will depend on market conditions, it is expected to be more than P20 billion.
The planned offering will likely carry tenors of between one to five years and if issuance will be in one tranche or split into two.
“We’re trying to ascertain what the sweet spot will be,” Ortiz said.
The securities will be branded as the “Asenso bonds”— short for agriculture, sustainability, environment and social—to reflect the bank’s lending priorities and alignment with the United Nations’s sustainable development goals, she explained.
Ortiz said the proceeds will be used to bankroll the entire value chain of agriculture, sustainability and clean energy projects, as well as social programs including financial inclusion and financing for local government units.
“We’re excited that the Phil-
ippines is now part of the JP Morgan Index. So you will see, hopefully, more foreign players come in and invest in bonds,” she said.
The Philippine peso-denominated government bonds were recently placed on JP Morgan’s positive watchlist, which is the final review phase for potential inclusion in JP Morgan’s Government Bond Index for Emerging Markets (GBI-EM) series.
(See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/09/15/phlnears-inclusion-in-jp-morgans-em-bond-index/).
If the country were to be included in the index, this would help attract more foreign investments, boost liquidity and enable the government and eventually the private sector to borrow at cheaper costs.
“That will bode well, not just for the Philippines, not just for the Bureau of the Treasury, but also for all local issues,” Ortiz added.
The LandBank booked a net income of P13.29 billion for the first quarter of this year, up by 11 percent year-on-year from P11.98 billion. This is also higher by 32 percent from its target for the three-month period.
Its total assets also rose by 5 percent to P3.43 trillion in the first quarter from P3.27 trillion a year ago, on the back of expansions in loan and investment portfolios.
As a state-run firm, Landbank remained the top dividend contributor to the government, declaring a record P33.53 billion in cash dividends. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
by banks as part of its supervisory oversight and policy development.
“The BSP continues to foster and strengthen a more conducive ecosystem for MSME lending by improving credit risk assessment, streamlining loan application processes, promoting digital finance, and developing enabling frameworks to advance MSME lending,” the central bank said.
The monitoring by the central bank of loans extended to the MSME sector is in compliance with the Magna Carta for MSMEs or Republic Act (RA) 6977, as amended by RA 8289 and RA 9501.
Earlier, financial support extended by Philippine banks to MSMEs increased 9.05 percent in the second quarter of 2025. (Ordinario, Cai. “Bank lending to MSMEs up
the authorized signatories of bank reports. The BSP also seeks to remove the notarization requirement for reports that are not required by law to be notarized. The rules would also remove the section on habituality and demerit points.
According to the central bank, the revised MORB would set a new deadline for select prudential and regulatory reports submitted in extensible mark-up language format through the “Prudential Reporting Innovation and Monitoring Engine,” or “Prime.” This move is expected to ensure efficiency in data preparation and timely validation and processing
of information by the Bangko Sentral, the BSP added. The central bank’s explanatory note read that the revisions to the MORB aim to encourage banks to utilize BSP facilities such as the “Prime sandbox” during periods of testing and/or parallel run to ensure accuracy in their reports upon live implementation.
Once finalized, the BSP will give banks six months from the time the circular becomes effective to prepare their systems and processes to ensure full compliance. The imposition of applicable sanctions for non-compliance with reporting standards, BSP said, will commence after the transition period. Cai U. Ordinario
THE state-run Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) announced its officials would review and tweak investment policies to align them with the principles of sound governance, risk management and sustainable growth.
A statement issued by the GSIS last Wednesday that its Board of Trustees is assessing its investment policies to ensure that members’ contributions are invested wisely and remain secure while delivering long-term value for future generations.
This is in response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for integrity and prudent investment of public pension funds, the statement read.
The GSIS’s move comes after the Office of the Ombudsman placed seven of the pension fund manager’s highranking officials under suspension without pay for six months. These officials, including then-General Manager Jose Arnulfo “Wick” A. Veloso, were suspended pending investigation of possible grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty, and violation of reasonable office rules and regulations over the P1.45-billion stock purchase from Alternergy Holdings Corp., according to Senate Resolution 84.
The Resolution further read that the Ombudsman noted that the preferred shares purchased by the GSIS from Alternergy were purchased without the necessary endorsement from the Assets and Liabilities Committee and the Risk Oversight Committee (ROC) for the approval of the Board of Trustees.
“Let us protect the lifetime of work that our pensioners have built for themselves and for our country,” Marcos said during the launch of the pension reform program of the Social Security System (SSS) last week.
Aside from this, the Republic’s chief
executive also directed the GSIS and the SSS to modernize their systems. In response, a GSIS official said they have implemented major pension reforms and digital innovations to enhance the welfare of members and retirees.
These reforms include the removal of the survivorship pension cap, now allowing surviving spouses to receive the full 50 percent of their partner’s pension, regardless of the amount, according to GSIS Officer-in-Charge Juliet M. Bautista. The cohabitation rule was also abolished by GSIS, wherein survivorship pensions are no longer suspended if the beneficiary lives with another partner. This can be terminated if the pensioner remarries.
The rules on Christmas Cash Gift have been relaxed. Pensioners who fail to complete their Annual Pensioners’ Information Revalidation (APIR) by April are no longer disqualified from receiving the gift. As long as APIR is completed, even after April, the benefit remains intact.
Moreover, retirees can now apply for their pension through the GSIS Touch app without visiting GSIS offices. This allows members and pensioners to complete APIR, apply for loans and access other services with just a tap.
“These reforms are not just changes in rules. They are statements of our commitment to make our systems more humane, responsive, and inclusive,” Bautista said during the National Pensioners’ Day program at the GSIS Theater in Pasay City.
“Through these reforms and digital platforms, we are making services faster, easier, and more accessible because our pensioners deserve retirement years marked by dignity, security, and ginhawa,” she added.
US ambassador, Phil. govt officials hail shared legacies in V-Day event
AMBASSADOR MaryKay Carlson and Mayor Benjamin Magalong of Baguio City led the commemoration of the 80th Victory Day at the US Ambassador’s Residence in Camp John Hay.
Together, they honored the shared sacrifices of Filipino and Allied forces in World War II and celebrated the enduring ties between the Philippines and the United States.
Victory Day marked the end of the last great war in the Philippines. In the 80 years since standing shoulder-to-shoulder in battle, the two countries have grown ever closer as friends, partners, and allies.
“The liberation of the Philippines during World War II was a triumph of the extraordinary bravery of Allied Forces and the indomitable spirit of the Filipino people. From resistance movements that defied occupation
to countless sacrifices made, their legacy is the freedom we cherish today,” Carlson said in her remarks. “This shared struggle forged a special relationship between our two nations, rooted in mutual respect, trust, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and prosperity of future generations of Filipinos and Americans.”
“That surrender marked not only the end of World War 2 in the Philippines but also the triumph of courage, strength in spirit, and hope over tyranny and despair. For us in Baguio, this is more than just an event written in textbooks—it is part of our
city’s living memory, a legacy carved into our very identity,” Magalong said. “As we remember that day and its significance to the world, we also honor the extraordinary sacrifices of the men and women—Filipino, American, and other allies—who fought courageously to restore peace and freedom.”
"Today must not merely be an
ordinary memorial day. It must be a day of deep reflection," Teodoro noted. “If we do not learn from the lessons of the past, and think as much as we want that the world is a static place, if we do not have resolve, purpose, and unity in action in all facets of public and private life, even with individual behavior and discipline, then we have no business honoring
Cine Europa 28 celebrates EU cinema’s diversity with stories of hope, struggle, and imagination
AS the longest-running European film festival in the Philippines, Cine Europa proudly marked its 28th edition this year, continuing its tradition of bringing the best of European cinema to Filipino audiences.
The film festival is presented by the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines together with the EU member states’ embassies in Manila and the Embassy of Ukraine as a guest.
Cine Europa showcases a compelling selection of award-winning films that reflect Europe’s cultural richness, creativity, and storytelling excellence. This year’s line-up features a diverse mix of dramas, comedies, animations, and literary adaptations that speak to universal human experiences—from resilience and identity to love, family, and freedom:
The Peasants (Poland) - An animated oil-painting masterpiece depicting a young woman’s struggle for independence in a 19th-century Polish village, caught between tradition and desire.
Family Therapy (Slovenia) - A tragicomic drama where the arrival of a mysterious stranger shatters the carefully maintained facade of a wealthy family, exposing their flaws and suppressed desires.
BeyondtheBlueBorder(Germany) - A gripping tale of friendship and
survival, following two teenagers’ daring escape across the Baltic Sea.
the devastation of war.
“L’Amouretlesforêts”(France)A gripping literary adaptation about love, control, and a woman’s fight to reclaim her freedom.
“Un métier sérieux” (France) - A heartfelt dramedy offering a glimpse into the everyday struggles and dedication of public school teachers.
those who have shed their blood."
More than 300 guests attended the ceremony, including Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr., Chairperson Regalado Trota Jose Jr. of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, and Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, along with veterans, members of the diplomatic corps, the media, as well as partners from the government and private sectors.
Carlson joined Teodoro, Magalong, Jose and Mapagu in presenting coins to living World War 2 veterans Angelo Viloria Andrada, Ernesto Carreon Luis, Florence Rimando Marasigan, and Sixta Quiñones Favila to honor their courage and invaluable contributions to freedom and democracy. Luis led the solemn ringing of the ceremonial bell at 12:10 p.m., marking the exact minute of General Yamashita’s surrender. Churches across Baguio City also rang their bells in unison.
During the event, Carlson an-
nounced the launch of a virtual tour of the historic US Ambassador’s Residence. Developed by the US Department of State, the virtual tour is free and accessible online through the OBO VR app in the Apple Store or through https://hullfilm360.com/ projects/state/baguio/web/360tour/ index.html.
“This initiative preserves our shared heritage, and invites future generations to reflect on our past [while helping] build a hopeful tomorrow,” she said.
Following the ceremony, the ambassador hosted a reception celebrating US-Philippine friendship, and the 249th year of US independence.
“We begin a new chapter as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of US independence, and the 80th anniversary of US-Philippine diplomatic relations in 2026,” the ambassador announced. “The friendship, partnership, and alliance between [our countries are a crucial part of that story because of the values we share such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Austrade delivers taste of Aussie lamb to top restos
THE “I Love Aussie Lamb” Fest was officially launched in Metro Manila, highlighting the premium quality and versatility of Australian lamb.
Led by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), the festival brought together some of the Philippines’ top restaurants that showcased innovative lamb creations across a wide range of dining concepts.
Three Kilometres to the End of the World (Romania) - A powerful drama about a young man whose life unravels after a violent homophobic attack in his village.
ma about a woman who returns home to care for her father and is drawn back into the competitive world of traditional boat racing, confronting grief and rediscovering her strength.
Dragonkeeper:
“Guardiana de dragones” (Spain)A family-friendly animated fantasy about a girl who embarks on a magical quest to save the last dragon egg. “Je’vida”(Finland) - The first film in the Skolt Sámi language, portraying the scars of assimilation policies and the rediscovery of indigenous identity.
NovaandAlice(Sweden) - A story of two musicians—one fading, one rising—whose forced collaboration sparks rivalry and transformation.
Sea of Hope (Czech Republic) - A bittersweet comedy-drama about a violin-maker whose quiet life is shaken by love, loss, and second chances.
Tarrac(Ireland) - A heartfelt dra-
Animal(Greece) – An unflinching look at the struggles of immigrant resort workers beneath the glitter of summer tourism.
Four Souls of Coyote (Hungary) - A visually stunning animation rooted in Native American creation myths, tackling environmental justice and humanity’s place in nature.
JippieNoMore(Netherlands) - A warm-hearted family comedy about love, disability, and the bonds that hold families together.
Fathers & Mothers (Denmark) - A sharp comedy about the lengths parents will go to for their children’s social acceptance.
“Chiara Lubich” (Italy) - A moving portrait of a young woman of faith seeking hope and unity amid
Curated Theft (Ukraine) - A timely documentary-style investigation into the looting of Kherson’s museums during Russia’s invasion— the largest art theft in Europe since World War 2.
Cine Europa 28 promises an enriching experience for film enthusiasts, students, and families alike— offering thought-provoking dramas, inspiring true stories, and imaginative journeys that affirm the enduring vitality of European cinema.
The Manila screenings ran in the Shangri-La Plaza Mall in Mandaluyong City until September 17. Special screenings will also be held in Cebu, Tacloban and Bacolod, ensuring wider audience reach across the country.
Cine Europa thanked its loyal partners who contributed to the festival’s success: Film Development Council of the Philippines, the Shangri-la Plaza Corporation, the University of the Philippines-Cebu, the Provincial Government of Bacolod City, the University of St. La Salle-Bacolod, and the Eastern Visayas State University in Tacloban.
From fine dining to family restaurants, casual favorites, and even burger joints, participating venues showcased Aussie Lamb that can be enjoyed in countless ways for every occasion.
“Aussie Lamb has always been about premium quality, sustainability, and flavor that inspires chefs and delights diners,” said Australian Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner Luisa Rust. “Raised on open pastures and nourished on natural grass, [the meat] is naturally rich in protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome and nutritious choice.”
Rust added that “[we are] delighted to see leading restaurants across the Philippines— from fine dining to casual eat -
eries—embracing Aussie Lamb and showcasing its versatility in truly innovative ways.” Diners can now enjoy special lamb dishes at the following: I am Angus, Chesa Bianca, Cyma, Discovery Primea, Souv, Dr. Wine, Mamacita, Bondi & Bourke, Brothers Burger, Blackbird, Elaia, Hossein’s, Persia Grill, People’s Palace, and Sala.
With more cuts of Australian Lamb now available in the Philippines, it has never been easier to prepare dishes that suit every cooking style and dining occasion. Whether grilled, roasted, stewed, or braised, Aussie Lamb is perfect for Filipino classics like kaldereta, adobo and sinigang , as well as international favorites such as Mediterranean roasts, Middle Eastern kebabs, and Asian stir-fries.
The festival also builds on the work of celebrated chef Roby Goco, who has long championed Australian Lamb in the Philippines through his restaurants Cyma Greek Taverna and Souv! by Cyma. In 2024, he was appointed the first Filipino “Lambassador” by Meat & Livestock Australia under a global project to promote Australian Lamb.
German firms explore renewable energy integration opportunities
THE German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI), in cooperation with the Renewable Energy Association of the Philippines (REAP), recently hosted the Conference on German Technologies for Renewable Energy Integration in the Philippines.
The event was part of a broader German business mission focused on fostering collaboration in the field of renewable energy, smart-grid, and storage solutions. It saw the participation of about 70 stakeholders; among them, industry leaders, regulatory experts, and public sector representatives.
“As the country diversifies its energy mix, German companies have a valuable
opportunity to contribute through advanced technology, engineering expertise, and collaborative ventures that unlock the full potential of the Philippine energy sector,” said GPCCI Vice President Tristan Arwen G. Loveres. “We are proud to provide a platform where German innovation and Philippine energy priorities can meet. We arranged around 68 [business-to-business] meetings to initiate concrete cooperation.”
Boosting bilateral energy cooperation
THE event also featured a keynote address by Undersecretary Rowena Guevara of the Department of Energy (DOE), who spoke on “The Role of Smart Grids
and Energy Storage in the Philippines' Sustainable Energy Transition.”
“Our drive for energy transition will not only build sustainable energy infrastructure for future generations, but we will also reap the economic benefits of retaining a highly skilled workforce in the country,” said Guevara. “The DOE shares this outlook in the hope of attracting committed climate financing, because this is how we secure a clean and reliable energy future for the next generation.”
Participating German companies included BAE Batterien—a manufacturer of stationary batteries used primarily for uninterruptible emergency power supply in data centers, power facilities, telecom-
munication infrastructure, and renewable energy projects. Blueberry Energy is an innovation-driven solar photovoltaic (PV) project developer offering solar-asa-service solutions and utility-scale solar and battery storage projects to commercial and industrial clients, along with advisory services for renewable energy ventures. Fichtner GmbH is a leading independent engineering and consultancy firm active in over 170 countries, specializing in energy, environment, water, and infrastructure, and delivering integrated technical and management solutions. H2 Core Systems designs modular, scalable electrolysis systems for sustainable energy applications. With over 35 years of experience in fluid systems, it
offers plug-and-play solutions integrating fuel cells, compressors, and storage driven by innovation, collaboration, and global impact. Reprocon GmbH brings 25 years of offshore wind expertise, offering services in contract and claims management, solving complex project challenges, and providing interim management through a trusted network. SkySails Power develops Airborne Wind Energy Systems that harness high-altitude wind, combining German engineering with a passion for sailing and innovation to accelerate the energy transition. SMA Altenso GmbH delivers cutting-edge energy solutions in PV hybrid, off-grid, battery, and power-to-gas systems.
“We see tremendous potential for
German companies to contribute to the Philippine energy sector, particularly in renewable energy and smart grid solutions,” said GPCCI President Marie Antoniette Mariano. “This mission reflects Germany’s commitment to building lasting partnerships in sectors with real impact.” The conference was part of a weeklong business delegation to the Philippines that involved German small to medium enterprises in smart grid and energy solutions. The project was implemented by GPCCI in partnership with the Renewables Academy AG and is part of the Energy Solutions-Made in Germany, supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy.
UNDERSECRETARY Reynaldo Mapagu (from left), Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Chairperson Regalado Trota Jose Jr., Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., and Ambassador MaryKay Carlson with Veteran Corporal Ernesto C. Luis Sr.
REPRESENTATIVES from European Union member countries’ embassies and the EU Delegation to the Philippines at the opening of the film fest’s 28th edition
Health&Fitness
Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz
HCCH launches Lung Center of Excellence, Lung Nodule Clinic
ABy Candy P. Dalizon Contributor
S the country’s first cancer spe -
cialty hospital, Healthway Cancer Care Hospital (HCCH) is taking a major step forward in oncology care with the launch of its Lung Center of Excellence (COE) and a dedicated Lung Nodule Clinic. This initiative is designed to provide comprehensive, human-centric care from early detection and diagnosis to advanced treatment and survivorship.
The launch of the HCCH Lung COE and Lung Nodule Clinic was held on September 1, 2025 at its facility in Arca South, Taguig City. The event was attended by key leaders, including AC Health President and CEO Paolo Borromeo, Healthway Medical Network President and CEO Jaime Ysmael, and various department heads, doctors, and staff. They were joined by guests from their pharmaceutical partner, AstraZeneca.
Lung cancer is a devastating disease that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, it is the leading cause of cancer deaths globally, responsible for nearly two million deaths. In the Philippines, lung cancer is a serious health issue. It is the second most common cancer after breast cancer and is the top cause of cancer-related deaths in both men and women.
The most common type of lung cancer, non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), accounts for over 80 percent of all cases. Experts say that the high mortality rate,
including that of NSCLC, is primarily due to late diagnosis and the challenges of treating the disease in its advanced stages.
The Lung COE: Comprehensive care for a serious condition
THE Lung COE offers a full spectrum of services for the two main types of lung cancer: NSCLC and the more aggressive small cell lung cancer (SCLC).
The center provides a comprehensive range of services designed to support patients at every stage of their journey.
Through a collaboration with AstraZeneca and AI developer Qure.ai, HCCH is enhancing lung cancer detection with AI-powered chest X-rays.
For early detection, the center also utilizes low-dose CT scans (LDCT) for effectivelung cancer screening. This service is available at the COE’s dedicated Lung Nodule Clinic.
When a diagnosis is needed, patients have access to advanced diagnostics, including bronchoscopy and various types of biopsies. The center also offers stateof-the-art treatment options, such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
Throughout their care, patients benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, with a team of experts collaborating to ensure personalized support. Finally, the center’s Survivorship and Support Programs, including palliative care, nutrition, and psychosocial support, are in place to improve patients’ overall quality of life.
Filipinos urged to adopt healthy, sustainable lifestyle
By Rory Visco Contributor
AT the Ayala Malls Market! Market! in Taguig City, an energetic cheer dance performance signaled the launch of a movement. Taiwan Excellence, which was established in 1993 by Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) to recognize and celebrate the exceptional achievements of Taiwan’s most innovative products, introduced Filipinos in attendance to a growing global lifestyle philosophy known as LOHAS, or Lifestyle of Health and Sustainability.
More than a showcase of products or a celebrity appearance, with Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray gracing the launch as the official LOHAS advocate, the three-day event called “LOHAS Days” brought attention to a timely question: How do we balance modern convenience with healthier, more sustainable living?
What LOHAS stands for LOHAS believes a holistic approach to wellness goes beyond fitness routines and diet fads. Rooted in the idea that good health should be sustainable for both people and the planet, LOHAS emphasizes choices that support physical well-being, environmental responsibility, and mindful living.
For Filipinos, who are often juggling busy schedules, family obligations, and the stresses of urban life, LOHAS offers practical ways to create balance, whether through active lifestyles, eco-conscious consumption, or prioritizing self-care.
In her opening remarks, Josephine Shun, Director of the Economic Division at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines, said Taiwan is serious about health. “Our government is promoting a big vision called Healthy Taiwan. Taiwan is known as the Bicycle Kingdom and one of the top three fitness equipment exporters in the world.”
Alex Lai, Director of Taiwan Trade Center Manila, emphasized the value of innovation in the LOHAS movement, where around 17 Taiwanese companies have brought more than 30 innovative products. “The Taiwan Excellence Awards have celebrated innovation as Taiwan’s core value. Behind every award is a simple belief: innovation brings a better life.” Taiwan has long been recognized as a leader in health and sustainability innovations. At LOHAS Days, Taiwan Excellence highlighted how its innovations align with everyday needs— showing that wellness is not just about gym memberships but about integrating healthier habits into daily routines.
From cutting-edge fitness gear and smart wearables to skincare and home essentials, the event featured dozens of solutions designed to encourage healthier, more balanced lifestyles. More than the products themselves, the mes -
“Lung cancer incidence is on the rise, and mortality rates are high because the disease is often diagnosed at a late stage. However, with screening and early detection, lung cancer is increasingly treatable, improving the chances of a cure and lowering the mortality rate. Advances in therapy have also led to a decline in mortality and improved survival rates,” said Dr. Gerardo Cornelio, head of the HCCH Lung Center of Excellence.
Molecular testing and targeted therapy have fundamentally transformed the treatment of advanced lung cancer. They represent a significant shift from traditional, broadspectrum chemotherapy to a highly precise and personalized approach.
“The vision of the Lung Center of Excellence is really to be the leading center for screening, detection, diagnosis, and treatment of thoracic malignancies in the Philippines. And we want to make this bigger, at least in Asia, in the next couple of years,” said Dr. Cornelio.
The Lung Nodule Clinic:
Early detection and expert management
DR . Michael Agustin, head of the Lung Nodule Clinic, shared that the Philippines faces several significant challenges in addressing lung cancer. The diagnostic process is complicated by the endemic nature of tuberculosis (TB), which often mimics cancer symptoms. Lung cancer screening is
just beginning to be introduced and PhilHealth has just recently rolled out coverage for low-dose CT.
These are compounded by a high rate of exposure to cigarettes and biomass smoke and limited access to healthcare, all of which contribute to the high burden of the disease.
Without a strategic intervention, a lack of screening for highrisk populations will lead to dire consequences. Even when a correct diagnosis is made, a patient may face limited treatment options due to the advanced stage of their disease.
“As the country’s first dedicated cancer care hospital, we are committed to addressing the leading cause of death among cancer patients. Our response is to create a sustainable and efficient program that enables the early diagnosis of cancer. We will target the onset of disease on a platform that utilizes HCCH’s existing services,” said Dr. Agustin.
The hospital’s Lung Nodule Clinic is designed to address the challenges of managing lung nodules, small spots that may appear on chest scans. While most are harmless, some can be an early sign of lung cancer.
The clinic provides a quick and efficient way for patients to have these nodules evaluated. Using proven medical guidelines, a team of specialists carefully examines each case to determine the next steps. This collaborative approach is a key feature of the clinic, with a multidisciplinary
team conference (MDTC) regularly convened to review complex cases. The team includes pulmonologists, radiologists, oncologists, and other specialists, all working together to create a personalized care plan.
The cornerstone of the new clinic is its Low-Dose CT (LDCT) Lung Cancer Screening Program. This quick and painless annual scan uses less radiation than a standard CT and can detect small nodules that may be early signs of cancer before symptoms appear. Experts highlight the importance of this, as lung cancer often goes undetected until its advanced stages.
According to a study, LDCT can reduce lung cancer deaths by 20 percent compared to chest X-rays. Individuals may be eligible for screening if they are between the ages of 50 and 80, have a smoking history of 20 pack-years or more, and are either a current smoker or have quit within the last 15 years. Other risk factors, such as a family history of lung cancer or exposure to harmful substances like radon or asbestos are also considered.
The Lung Nodule Clinic is located at the Multi-specialty Clinic on the 2nd Floor of Healthway Cancer Care Hospital, South Union Drive, Arca South, Western Bicutan, Taguig City. For inquiries or to schedule an appointment, please call (632) 7777 4673 loc. 4722 or mobile number (63) 917 125 7676.
SM Foundation upgrades San Remigio Primary Care Facility anew
Isage was clear: sustainability and wellness can, and should, work together.
Health benefits for Filipinos
THE promise of LOHAS resonates deeply in the country, where health concerns are often intertwined with lifestyle choices and environmental challenges. One of its most immediate benefits lies in the way it encourages accessible fitness.
During LOHAS Days, participants joined free spin classes, yoga sessions, and high-energy workouts, proving that wellness can be inclusive and community-driven, proving that exercise need not be limited to gyms or costly memberships but can be part of daily life, offering Filipinos practical ways to combat lifestyle-related illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension.
LOHAS also puts a spotlight on preventive health, a philosophy that urges individuals to be proactive, to make mindful choices in food, movement, and everyday essentials that safeguard long-term well-being. Hydrating skincare, ergonomic home tools, and energyefficient devices may seem like modest adjustments, but together, they contribute to a healthier, more balanced life.
Equally important is the attention LOHAS gives to mental wellness. In a country where stress is an unavoidable part of urban living, whether from long commutes, demanding jobs, or financial pressures, the call for balance and mindfulness is particularly relevant. Yoga and meditation provide an accessible means to strengthen not only the body but also emotional resilience, helping Filipinos manage the demands of modern life with greater calm and clarity.
Finally, LOHAS underscores that health extends beyond the individual to the environment. By choosing eco-friendly and durable products, households reduce waste and help ease the strain on natural resources. For a nation highly vulnerable to climate change, this shift toward sustainability carries weight not only for today’s consumers but for the generations to come, that living well and caring for the planet are not separate goals but complementary ones. Also, what made LOHAS Days more than a product showcase was the presence of Taiwan’s popular FuBear mascot to show that wellness and sustainability can be joyful pursuits, not chores.
Gray captured this sentiment well, saying that adopting LOHAS is “an empowering reminder that living a healthy, sustainable lifestyle is something we can all embrace.”
Adopting a LOHAS lifestyle doesn’t require drastic change. It can start with small, consistent choices: walking or biking to nearby places, choosing eco-conscious products, setting aside time for exercise, or practicing mindful breathing before bed. The key is integration, where health and sustainability are part of everyday life rather than occasional goals.
N Cebu, San Remigio Primary Care Facility once again received comprehensive upgrades that transformed it into a facility that serves those who need it the most.
Destroyed by Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in 2013, the health facility was first rehabilitated with the support of SM Foundation in 2015.
Dr. Orleta Ursal, municipal health officer of San Remigio, credited the said initiative as the reason for her decision to stay in government service.
“I was thinking of going back to private practice. We were hit by Yolanda. The services were not good. I became so stressed and depressed,” Dr. Ursal recalled. “When SM Foundation came in, they rebuilt the center, refurbished it and even made it look like a private clinic. From then on, I decided to stay for good because I knew I could deliver health services to the community.”
Upkeep of the facility OVER a decade later, SM Foundation went back to San Remigio for the upkeep of the second phase of the facility. In between, personnel of nearby SM Consolacion would check on us and upon their recommendation SM Foundation came back.
Although the initial rehabilitation had already enabled the facility to provide the services needed by the community, Ursal admitted that there are still challenges, such as handling the influx of patients who either have to wait outside or crowd the facility’s small waiting area.
“‘Yung init, nakaapekto rin sa aming trabaho. Pag masyadong mainit, hindi kami maka-concentrate [The heat also affected our work. When it’s too hot, we can’t concentrate.],” she said.
The latest upgrade transformed the center into a full-fledged Primary Care Fa -
cility, with a redesigned layout and updated medical equipment. Our waiting area was remodeled and patients could wait for diagnosis in a covered area which also doubled as venue for lectures and demonstration area.
Energy-efficient lighting
SUSTAINABLE features have also been added, including a rainwater-harvesting system, energy-efficient lighting, aircleaning paints, and enhanced greenery. For Dr. Ursal, the upgrades will enable them to comply with the requirements needed for the renewal of their accreditation as a Primary Care Facility next year.
This, in turn, will allow their team to focus on their primary objective: to care for the people of San Remigio.
Ursal expressed belief that the upgraded facility will dispel the mindset that government health centers lack what private
hospitals can provide.
“Di na sila matatakot pumunta sa [They are no longer scared to go to the] health center. Pagpasok pa lang nila, [As soon as they enter] they will see that they will get better. Sa environment pa lang, maiiba ‘yung mindset nila [Just the environment will change their mindset.],” she said, referring to the patients.
“With a very beautiful, healthy working place, mas magaan yung trabaho namin [our jobe is easier], and it helps with our mental health,” she added.
Aside from building and rehabilitating health care centers, SM Foundation ensures these centers are well maintained. The upkeep of these facilities is the commitment of SM Foundation for a conducive healing atmosphere. Regular visits are done by personnel from nearby SM Stores to check on the centers’ condition.
Takeda, Asian Hospital partner to expand access to life saving medicines for rare conditions
AS part of its continuing commitment to broadening sustainable and equitable access to medicines, Takeda Healthcare Philippines recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Asian Hospital and Medical Center (AHMC) to broaden patient access to innovative life-saving medications.
The ceremonial signing marked the start of a collaborative agreement between the two institutions, both of which strongly believe in building partnerships that address many of the healthcare challenges faced by Filipinos. Takeda will extend its patient assistance programs to AHMC patients through this partnership.
Particularly, rare blood cancers such as Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and rare GI conditions such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) will be covered under this collaboration. The program uses innovative and collaborative financing models wherein prescribed therapies may be provided to the patient through a financial eligibility-based, cost-sharing model in collaboration with program partners. Eligible patients, in partnership with their healthcare providers, can get access to innovative medicines regardless of their financial condition.
More than addressing cost issues that often prevent patients from accessing important pharmaceutical products, these programs are also geared toward ensuring that the management of certain life-threatening illnesses proceed smoothly and in line with treatment plans. With this partnership, support is brought closer to where patients
are cared for, helping reduce out-of-pocket cost for eligible patients, thus ensuring that quality treatment is not just a privilege, but a right available to all.
MOU signing
PRESENT to sign the memorandum of understanding were Loreann Villanueva, Takeda Philippines Country Manager; Dr. Beaver Tamesis, AHMC President and CEO; and Dr. Corazon Ngelangel, Clinical Director of the Asian Cancer Institute at AHMC. Also present at the signing were Dr. Anna Purisima Peñalosa, AHMC Director for Commercial Operations Group and Strategic Business Units; Christina Liza Sta. Maria, AHMC Associate Director for Pharmacy, Healthcare Access, Vaccination, and Nutrition Services; Sheryll-Anne Corpuz, Takeda Lead for Access to Medicines; and John Raymond Gulinao, Takeda Lead for Institutional Business and Alliance Management.
“Cancer is not only a disease; it is a reality that touches families, communities, and health systems,” said Sta. Maria. “We recognize the emotional, physical, and financial toll it takes on patients and their loved ones. And today, through this partnership, we are taking a step forward in making treatment not only available but truly accessible. Together, we are shaping a future where cancer care is inclusive, responsive, and truly centered on the patient.”
For his part, Dr. Tamesis spoke about how the drugs included in the program would benefit patients at the AHMC, especially since these cases are not as
rarely seen in the hospital as one might expect. “There are quite a number of patients and it’s really important that these [pharmaceutical] products be made available,” he said.
He added: “Congratulations to everybody for bringing this [program] home, finally. I’m excited about this.”
Rare diseases
“RARE conditions like multiple myeloma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and inflammatory bowel disease—they often go unnoticed, along with other rare diseases,” said Villanueva. “And these patients with rare conditions deserve not just our attention, but more so our unwavering support. That’s why this partnership is so important—it reflects our joint commitment to make healthcare more inclusive, more accessible.”
She added: “In Takeda, we really believe that access to life-saving medications should never be about a patient’s ability to pay. It’s never about their financial capacity.”
Takeda’s Access to Medicines program reflects the company’s global commitment to equity. Through this initiative, Takeda nurtures partnerships that help strengthen healthcare systems in ways that are sustainable, aligned with national priorities, and in collaboration with local communities. Beyond affordable pricing for life-saving drugs, Access to Medicines pushes for the much larger goal of policy change, especially in areas facing serious and complex healthcare challenges.
Access to medicines AT present, as many as two billion people living in low- and middle-income count ries lack access to essential medicines, on top of continuing challenges related to healthcare infrastructure, as well as gaps in screening, diagnostics, and treatment availability.
Data from the Global Cancer Observatory of the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer showed that Hodgkin lymphoma ranked 23rd among the most frequently diagnosed cancers in the Philippines, with 602 new cases in 2022. Multiple myeloma ranked 21st, with 931 new cases. Meanwhile, among the five most prevalent cancers in the country, two are gastrointestinal (GI) cancers: colorectal cancer ranks third with 20,736 cases, and liver cancer ranks fourth with 12,544 new cases. According to the World Journal of Gastroenterology, as of 2019 there are approximately 4.9 million people living with IBD globally. There are currently no national statistics on IBD in the Philippines, but the number of cases is expected to grow in the coming years, according to regional forecasts and expert reviews in the journal. The active collaboration of stakeholders from various sectors can help alleviate some of the pressing needs of patients with these diseases not just in the Philippines, but across the region.
Aside from AHMC, Takeda Philippines also has existing collaborations for its patient access programs with Makati Medical Center and the Healthway Cancer Care Hospital.
PRESENT at the unveiling of the Lung Nodule Clinic Marker were, from left, Dr. Antonio Ramos, Chief, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery; Dr. Conrado Gabriel Lorenzo, Chairman, Medical Advisory Council; Dr. Manuel Francisco Roxas, Chief Operating Officer, HCCH; Dr. Gerardo Cornelio, Head, Lung Center of Excellence; Dr. Michael Agustin, Head, Lung Nodule Clinic; Lotis Ramin, Country President of AstraZeneca Philippines; Jaime Ysmael, President and CEO, Healthway Medical Network; Dr. Jose Sollano, Jr., Medical Director, HCCH; and Paolo Borromeo, President and CEO, AC Health.
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Metro Pacific Water Celebrates 14th Anniversary with Tuloy Foundation, Presents 10 Scholars
Metro Pacific Water (MPW), a leading provider of sustainable water and wastewater solutions in the Philippines, celebrated its 14th anniversary with a special event at the Tuloy Foundation on August 19, 2025. A wholly owned subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC), MPW chose to mark this milestone not with a traditional corporate celebration, but with a meaningful partnership.
Tuloy Foundation is a non-profit organization founded by Fr. Rocky Evangelista, SDB, that provides shelter, education, and holistic care to marginalized youth. During the event, MPW proudly introduced its first 10 scholars from the foundation, reinforcing the company’s commitment to empowering the next generation. These Automotive and Refrigeration & Air Conditioning scholars will receive not only educational assistance, but also mentorship and guidance from MPW employees.
MPW also donated more than
Turnover of educational assistance and hygiene kits from Metro Pacific Water to the children of Tuloy Foundation.
230 hygiene kits to the students of Tuloy Foundation, underscoring the company’s dedication to health and well-being in the communities it serves.
MPIC’s Chaye Cabal-Revilla Named Co-Chair of A4S CFO Leadership Network in Asia Pacific
METRO Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) proudly announces that its Executive Director, Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer, Chaye Cabal-Revilla, has been named Co-Chair of the Asia Pacific Chapter of the Accounting for Sustainability (A4S) CFO Leadership Network. She will serve alongside Kevin Monteiro, Executive Director and CFO of Japfa Ltd.
This leadership transition comes alongside the appointment of Pooi Funn Moong as A4S Director for Asia Pacific, who will spearhead the organization’s initiatives across the region.
The A4S CFO Leadership Network supports CFOs worldwide in embedding sustainable long-term value into corporate strategy and business processes, enabling organizations to build resilience and gain strategic advantage.
Cabal-Revilla takes on the co-chair role following the tenure of Rishi Kalra, Executive Director and Group CFO of Olam Food Ingredients Ltd, who has served as the founding chair since the network’s establishment in Asia Pacific four years ago.
A4S aims to inspire action by finance leaders to drive a fundamental shift towards resilient business models and a sustainable economy.
2018, establishing the Singapore Circle of Practice, which evolved into a fully-fledged Chapter in 2021, am proud of the impact we have made in advocating for the evolving role of finance in shaping a more sustainable future. As I hand over the leadership of the Chapter to Chaye CabalRevilla and Kevin Monteiro, who share a deep passion for sustainability, I am confident that their experience and
ACTION , Inc. (A Child’s Trust Is Ours to Nurture, Inc.), a non-government organization dedicated to addressing child malnutrition, has officially partnered with Lawson Philippines, Inc., a leading convenience store chain in the country from Japan, and other supporters as well as the Navotas City government to implement the Akamegane Kitchen Project at Tanza Elementary School in Navotas City.
The initiative will provide daily nutritious meals to 100 students until 2028, serving as a vital intervention for children in one of the city’s most vulnerable communities.
To ensure sustainability, three local staff members have been employed to manage kitchen operations and prepare meals that meet proper nutrition standards.
The project is supported by Ryota Yamasato, a popular comedian and television personality in Japan, who serves as an ambassador for the cause. This project has been named “Akamegane Kitchen (Red-Glasses Kitchen)”, inspired by the collaboration with Yamasato, who is wellknown for his trademark red glasses. His longstanding advocacy for children has been instrumental in mobilizing support.
Lawson Philippines is celebrating 10th anniversary this year and currently operates 217 convenience stores inside and outside the Metro Manila. Together with ACTION, Lawson Philippines is determined
The celebration brought together MPW executives, the Board of Directors from MPIC, and guests from Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW), Metro Pacific Water Services (MPWS), Metro Iloilo Bulk Water (MIB), and the Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD).
As MPW continues to expand its footprint in Southeast Asia, the company reaffirmed its belief that true success lies not only in the infrastructure it builds but also in the lives it uplifts.
In his anniversary message, MPW President & CEO Andrew Pangilinan emphasized the deeper meaning of the celebration. “This day is not only about 14 years of delivering clean and reliable water,” he said. “It is about the partnerships we’ve built and the lives we have the privilege to touch along the way. At Tuloy Foundation, we are reminded that investing in education, opportunity, and support for our youth is one of the greatest contributions we can make for our nation’s future.”
ACTION, Inc. Partners with Lawson PHL to Launch Feeding Program in Navotas
the photo are, from left, Hajime Yokota, Founder and President of ACTION, Inc.; Ryota Yamasato, Japanese comedian and Ambassador of Akamegane Kitchen Project; and Takuya Goto, Chief Finance Officer and Group Head of Merchandising and Marketing of Lawson Philippines, Inc.
to build long-term impact by addressing child malnutrition and supporting the future of Filipino children. This collaboration reflects Lawson’s deep commitment to creating Happiness and Harmony in the Community.
In July 2025, Lawson Philippines launched a store-wide donation drive, installing coin banks across more than 150 stores in Metro Manila to provide customers with a simple yet meaningful way to contribute. Each coin drop represents a step closer to filling a plate,
lifting a spirit, and creating a safer space for children.
The company, with the support of BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands), also released food boxes featuring the Akamegane Kitchen logo and project details, raising awareness about the initiative and encouraging customer participation. All proceeds will directly support the operations of the Akamegane Kitchen in Navotas City.
Yamasato further showed his support by visiting Lawson Philippines’ store in One World, BGC, Taguig, together with Takuya Goto, Chief Finance Officer and Group Head of Merchandising and Marketing, and Mr. Hideki Ogawa, Senior Operations Manager.
Together with ACTION, Inc., Lawson Philippines believes in the power of small acts of kindness to create lasting change. Through this partnership, both organizations reaffirm their joint commitment to fighting child hunger, promoting health, and building stronger communities.
To all Lawson Neighbors: Your small change holds the power to feed hope. Thank you for helping us make a difference—one meal, one child at a time.
ACTION, Inc. continues to seek supporters who share their purpose-driven mission of nourishing children and building brighter futures. To learn more or support their advocacy, visit facebook.com/NGO.ACTION or www.action.org.ph
Moves to Keep School Expenses in Check All Year Round
trends and hacks can be helpful and fun, prioritize functionality and durability over fleeting trends. Before buying, ask yourself: Do my kids genuinely need this for learning, or am I just feeling pressured to get it?
Make use of free public learning resources
Learning can be exciting when it extends beyond the classroom walls, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to give your child new experiences. Several museums in Metro Manila offer free admission, including the National Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Anthropology, and the National Museum of Natural History. In need of a distraction-free environment for homework and research? Check out public libraries, such as the Quezon City Public Library and the National Library of the Philippines, as an alternative to cafes.
Explore financial tools and maximize promos
When everything happens all at once and you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to tap into reliable
digital financial tools to stretch your budget and help you manage your expenses. GCash offers ways to make school expenses more manageable. If you’re eligible, you can use GCredit, a credit line of up to P50,000, which you can use to ease expenses for school supplies and gear. For bigger purchases, GGives provides an installment option of up to P125,000, making essential upgrades like gadgets, electronics, or even tuition fees, lighter on your pocket with up to 24 months to pay.
GCredit Promo
Still need to buy additional school supplies? Use GCredit to buy them now and pay later. A minimum purchase of PHP 500 using GCredit from September 1 to September 30, 2025, at National Book Store, SM Store, or Robinsons Department Store gives you the chance to be one of the 10 lucky parents to win P50,000 in GCash credits—perfect as additional budget for school! To join the raffle,
“In today’s world, every number tells a story of risk, resilience, and responsibility. As finance professionals, we sit at the heart of every decision and are uniquely positioned to drive sustainability from intention to impact,” Cabal-Revilla said. “As co-chair of the A4S CFO Leadership Network in Asia Pacific, I am honored to help champion a future where sustainable choices are not only good for the planet but make clear business sense –because that’s when real transformation happens.”
Monteiro added, “I truly believe that the finance function is very influential in being able to reach top leaders, and reach down, deep into the organization, to make sure that it has sustainability at its core. During these uncertain times I believe Asia will step up.” he added, “It will accelerate, it will take on sustainability in a serious way and overcome this transition period. This emphasizes the role that the A4S CFO Leadership Network can play today in supporting Asia to maintain momentum in its sustainability journey into the future and make a difference for our planet.”
Commenting on his past chairmanship, Kalra said, “As the founding co-chair of the A4S CFO Leadership Network – Asia Pacific Chapter, it has been a privilege to help embed sustainability into both financial and strategic decisions within the region. Reflecting on the journey that began in
impact.
New batch of Newport World Resorts’ Academy for Leisure and Tourism graduates
NEWPORT World Resorts celebrated the graduation of the second batch of hospitality trainees from the Academy for Leisure & Tourism (ALT) on August 28, 2025. Ten students were awarded their National Certification Level II in Food and Beverage Service from ALT, the integrated resort’s educational arm. Over the three-month duration of the course, which commenced in July, trainees attended classes facilitated by industry experts from Newport World Resorts’ own roster of multi-awarded professionals. They also received on-the-job experience across the property’s five international hotel brands: Manila Marriott Hotel, Hotel Okura Manila, Hilton Manila, Sheraton Manila Hotel, and Holiday Inn Express Manila.
Graduate John Louise Chua, recipient of the High Academic Distinction Award, reflected on the lessons gained from the program. “In this industry, knowledge is only a guide, but humility and empathy are what truly matter. Giving people a wonderful experience matters. Because quality service doesn’t always come from the head, it comes from the heart.”
For its upcoming third batch, the Academy for Leisure & Tourism (ALT) extended enrollment until September 12, 2025. This year, ALT will roll out new programs in Housekeeping, Culinary, and Casino Dealing, further expanding
its training portfolio to address the evolving needs of the hospitality industry. The program fee of Php 35,000 covers comprehensive training benefits, including access to modern facilities, professional uniforms, training kits, and hands-on instruction in live hospitality settings. Applications are ongoing through https://newportwr.com/ALTadmission. Classes will be held at the Academy for Leisure and Tourism on the 2nd Floor of Horizon Centre, Newport World Resorts. For inquiries and enrollment assistance, contact admissions@ academyforleisuretourism.com or call 0917 878 8295.
Backed by the industry expertise and international partnerships of Newport World Resorts, ALT is committed to producing certified world-class Filipino professionals in the hospitality, leisure, and tourism industries. For more information on the Academy for Leisure and Tourism, visit https:// newportwr.com/ALT and follow @ newportworldresorts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Join Newport World Resorts Viber Community at https:// newportwr.com/nwrvibercommunity for exclusive updates. Every visit is made more rewarding with an Epic Rewards membership, download the
and
In
Thinking about taking a stab at IV therapy? Ask some questions first
By Tom Murphy The Associated Press
IV therapy clinics are springing up around the country, touting quick ways to recover from a hangover or a hard workout. But doctors and regulators preach caution.
The services have been on a growth spurt since the Covid-19 pandemic, offering drips that promise to boost energy, gird immune systems or relieve joint pain. This is done from bags of intravenous fluids normally seen hanging next to hospital beds.
Customers must be willing to fork over as much as couple hundred dollars for each session—in some cases for a mixture of vitamins and supplements that would be considerably cheaper in pill form.
Proponents say this approach helps customers hydrate faster and absorb more of a vitamin or supplement than they would by swallowing pills.
But Dr. Sam Torbati, co-chairman of emergency medicine at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, says the therapy mostly helps people create “expensive urine,” with the body clearing what it doesn’t use.
HOW MANY IV CLINICS ARE THERE?
They’re hard to count, partly because some businesses just provide IV therapy while others offer it as part of a medical spa.
The practice grew popular during Covid-19, when access to doctors became limited and people grew more concerned about their immune system health, according to the American IV Association, an industry group.
Regulators in Ohio are following the trend closely in their state, which now has around 200 clinics. These businesses were largely unheard of there before the pandemic, said Cameron McNamee, a spokesman for the Ohio Board of Pharmacy.
WHAT SHOULD CUSTOMERS KNOW ABOUT IV THERAPY CLINICS?
Doctors say there are some good questions to pose before any treatment starts.
Customers should ask the person starting the IV how long they have been doing their job and what sort of training they have, said Torbati. They also should know what’s in the IV drip. For instance, “Wonder Juice” treatment offered by the Restore Hyper Wellness franchise combines six vitamins and supplements that are available, in oral form, on the pharmacy store shelves.
Knowing all the ingredients comes in handy if someone has an allergic reaction. Also ask where the company gets its drugs, if any are used. The answer should be a licensed pharmaceutical wholesaler, according to McNamee. Otherwise, the drug could be counterfeit or substandard. Ohio regulators have suspended the licenses of businesses that purchased drugs on Facebook.
Customers also should make sure the clinic is in decent shape when they visit. “If the office isn’t clean, then the IV room’s probably not clean either,” McNamee said.
WHY ARE REGULATORS CONCERNED?
They don’t like that a nurse or a paramedic often helps a customer decide on an IV therapy and then delivers the treatment.
Rules can vary, but many state regulators say a doctor, physician assistant or nurse practitioner should be involved. The clinics often run on standing orders, which are issued by a doctor with the idea that they give the nurse or paramedic permission to treat patients according to certain protocols.
Hospital emergency rooms regularly operate on the same kind of orders, according to Dr. Chris Seitz, an emergency physician and chairman of the American IV Association’s scientific advisory board.
“Many nurses saw patients before I ever could get to them in the emergency department and initiated care like IV fluids,” he said.
WHAT’S THE BIG PICTURE?
IV therapy clinics do provide some care. They can help cancer patients or pregnant women stay hydrated. Some treatments offer relief from migraine pain.
But many drips require the creation of a sterile, soluble vitamin or supplement that is safe to put into someone’s veins. That’s more expensive to make than a vitamin that may cost a few cents a pill, Torbati noted.
Customers will need to determine whether the added expense is worth it. “Usually within eight hours, all that expensive therapy [is] peed out,” he said.
Parentlife BusinessMirror
Diary of a mom with no limits: New York, New York
IT’S been a while since I last wrote in my Diary of a Mom with No Limits series. This week, I felt compelled to write as a tribute to a place that has shaped me in ways both warm and profound: New York.
My very first memory of New York was at age five, when my grandmother took me and my siblings to visit my uncle’s home in New City. That was the first time I met all my New York cousins. Bryan, who was my age, instantly became my playmate—I followed him everywhere. But just months after we returned to Manila, I remember my grandmother receiving a phone call at dawn. Bryan had met a tragic accident.
To this day, I cannot recall that moment without tears. That early in life, I realized how fragile happiness can be. Maybe that’s why since then, I’ve held on to my habit of taking countless photos of people I love.
On my last trip to New York, I was grateful to reconnect—chatting with my cousin Kelvin on his way to work, hearing about Jonathan’s adventures in Denmark, and soaking up wisdom from my Ape A-m and cousin Laurie.
Spending days with my uncle’s family outside the city reminded me of my 10th-grade year when I actually lived with them. I had left Manila half-fearful and half-hopeful, after the passing of my beloved Sakopo (my grandaunt). It was a rocky start, especially since I had missed a semester, but kind and patient teachers like Mrs. Hicks and Mr. Fleiser guided me back on track. Choosing choir over lunch breaks with Mr. Gold became a refuge. At home, I instantly gained two brothers—Kelvin in college and Jonathan, who was five years younger. By the end of that year, I had stellar Regents exam scores, my first AP test, and even a choir performance with our school orchestra at SUNY Purchase. Learning was fun again. I thought I was well on my way to my US dream, but life led me back to Manila after 10th grade. Looking back, that year—though wrapped in grief—made New York my place of solace and reflection.
I also remember how devastated I was when my English teacher gave me a B on my first research paper. But she pushed me to embrace reading— something I never enjoyed before—and encouraged me to explore literature, especially poetry. That challenge sparked my lifelong love of writing. For my 10th grade project at Clarkstown North, I wrote a poem for my Sakopo, a piece that still echoes my teenage heart:
“When Lives Are Taken”
A time elapsed, of life and knowledge For me, that is, for she has left Towards an unknown place, but a peaceful one, I hope. So long for the restless nights, where whom her stories were told Dozing me to sleep, with thoughts of pasts to ponder And with a sweet kiss she’d leave, a star for me to keep. Every night was a road, for us to travel and go by
Books were our guiding light, exploring the roots of our land
Then we’d go through culture,
To preserve what she called ours. Golds, silvers, and bronzes… fruits of our labor
The hard work in between… foundations of our tower
And the dreams of the peak… was the essence of our friendship. But then chaos had come to plague, ruining each cell of life And breaking down each block, I was indignant Few months…they said. Why?…I replied. She was fragile and alone once tricked by love
And never again pursued I was weak and so flustered
Yet the wheel turned slowly and the pain shrieked even more
We were both helpless.
I saw her sleep in a night never ending I wept…I was selfish
For yes! The tears for her slumber
But more for my questioned future.
Now the room is lit but why do I stand alone
Sa-kopo (Chinese word for grandaunt), why have you gone? Was there too much in life? How I wish you’d come again,
just to hear what I have to say.
People die… memories still linger.
Time will pass… pain would stay bonded. And though you have left…
I will be waiting.
Every so often after college, I would visit New York for work. I loved riding the bus to see what’s new in the city. Visiting The Guggenheim became a new ritual for me. I would pick a painting that struck me and write a poem about it. I would also watch at least one Broadway show on each trip. I was lucky to catch Lea Salonga play Eponine in Les Miéerables on one of my trips.
Years later, in 2018, my husband and I brought our children to New York. It was deeply fulfilling to take them to my “ritual” places—St. Patrick’s Cathedral, MoMA, Barnes & Noble on 5th Avenue, a Broadway show (that time, it was Hamilton), and of course: a visit with my lifelong friend Lyn Lyn’s family. My daughter Meagan was so inspired by that trip that when we returned home, she researched the best university in New York. At age 12, she set her sights on her dream university.
Now, seeing her step into her own New York journey feels surreal, like life coming full circle. Experiencing the city both through my own memories and my daughter’s dreams is a joy unlike any other. So, thank you, New York—for the memories, the music, the lessons, the friendships, and the comfort you have given me through the various seasons of my life. Here’s to knowing you more in my next visit.
The city’s next stage is set: Quezon Club coming soon
THE city’s most anticipated after-dark destination is about to open its doors. Solaire Resort North announces the upcoming debut of Quezon Club, a refined, exclusive venue where dining, performance and charm converge.
Named after its home city, Quezon City, long celebrated for its roots in the entertainment and creative industries, Quezon Club honors that heritage while elevating it. Here, velvet-lit evenings unfold into an ever-changing stage of curated performances, soul-stirring cuisine, and cocktails that tell their own stories.
Far from the usual night out, Quezon Club is built on mystique, refinement and artistry. It offers an atmosphere where the culturally curious and styledriven can indulge in world-class entertainment acts, from live music and theatrical reveals to immersive performances.
Every visit reveals a different layer, sometimes in the form of unexpected performances, sometimes in familiar dishes reimagined.
CLOCKWISE:
Alas III: Firing up the faithful
By Aldrin Quinto
AFTER a discordant opener and a thunderous second act, here comes the plot twist. Alas Pilipinas is playing for a spot in the Round of 16.
The story builds for the dreamers turned contenders, and Philippines vs Iran could be the climactic chapter in the home squad’s dramatic rise in the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
Firing up the faithful and silencing the critics, Bryan Bagunas, Leo Ordiales, Marck Espejo and the rest of the crew bounced back from a straight-sets loss in the opener against Tunisia with an inspiring four-set victory over African champion Egypt.
Now the Filipinos, also starring Kim Malabunga, Lloyd Josafat and Josh Ybanez, lock in on Iran—Asia’s top contender in the tournament after the early exit of crowd darling Japan.
First serve is at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
T he winner advances to the knockout phase against teams from the pool featuring Brazil, Serbia, Czechia and China.
But that’s looking too far ahead, a mindset coach Angiolino Frigoni and Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara warned against.
ALL locked in ANGIOLINO FRIGONI was quick to rein in the celebration of the team’s breakthrough performance, noting that bigger fights lie ahead.
The Italian tactician, who himself dropped to the floor in joy after the Philippines’ four-set victory over Egypt that sent shockwaves through the
volleyball world, was clear in his message to stay grounded.
We know what we have to improve.
We know exactly what we have to improve,” Frigoni said.
“Don’t put in the minds of everybody that we are already a good team.”
Fr igoni again called on the home crowd to help provide the lift for Alas Pilipinas.
Thank you, Filipino fans.… That was very nice, we needed it,” Frigoni said about the ecstatic Tuesday crowd at the MOA Arena.
“P lease come by the game. I can’t promise that we’ll play like this, but I promise that we’ll do everything to play like today.”
Big ambitions
PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara hailed the breakthrough victory over Egypt as proof that the system is working—laying the foundation for bigger ambitions for the national team.
And like Frigoni, Suzara was quick to refocus the spotlight, stressing that the only priority now is Iran.
As I said—step by step,” Suzara emphasized.
Suzara expressed optimism that Alas Pilipinas could emerge as a medal contender in the Southeast Asian Games, with the men’s program poised for greater recognition and support for more international stints.
Still, he urged the team to stay grounded, saying that details of future plans will be revealed in time.
We will continue this program with our men’s volleyball team and build on the momentum,” Suzara said.
“I r eally hope we play even better,” Suzara said. “Let’s give Iran a match to remember.”
Marck Espejo, who has consistently
is working—laying the
championed excellence as a means to inspire and uplift others, agreed that there is more work ahead for the Philippines in this World Championship.
“I hope that by hosting the World Championship, more people will get interested in playing volleyball—and maybe even represent the country in the future when we’re no longer playing,” said the 28-year-old Espejo, one of the few Filipinos who have played professional volleyball overseas.
“I really think the Philippines has potential when it comes to growth.”
Monster matchups
ALAS PILIPINAS and Iran hold 1-1 records, matching Egypt and Tunisia
TASHANAH BALANGAUAN staged a gritty comeback to beat Precious Zaragosa and win the 15-18 division of the International Container Terminal Services Inc. Junior Philippine Golf Tour (JPGT) Championship on Wednesday.
T he 16-year-old Cebuana Balangauan capitalized on Zaragosa fumble—a double bogey on the par-three 13th— and saved par on the demanding par-five 18th for a 75 and a 54-hole total of 12-over 222.
Z aragosa, needing a par on the final hole to apply pressure, missed the green and misread a tricky downhill putt from 7 feet.
The miss allowed Balangauan to calmly sink a four-footer to complete her second win in the JPGT Visayas-Mindanao leg.
Zaragosa settled for a 79 and a 224 total, while Breanna Rojas carded a 93 to finish third with a 285.
The boys’ 15-18 division also produced a thrilling finish with hometown favorite John Paul Oro weathering a final-round scare to secure a three-shot victory despite a rollercoaster 75.
Oro wrapped up the tournament with a 54-hole total of 222, but the road to the title was far from smooth.
A lexis Nailga, already guaranteed a spot in the Finals, mounted a fiery comeback from eight strokes down at the start of the day.
P
in the flight ahead of the championship group,
which sets up a high-stakes Thursday slate. Iran lost to Egypt in four sets in the opener before regaining its footing with a four-set win over Tunisia.
Eyes will again be on 21-year-old rising star Poriya Kandzadeh and 26-year-old skipper Morteza Sharifi as the Iranians, the top-ranked Asian team in contention after the exit of Japan, try to make it to the last 16.
“ We’ll approach it the same way we did today—we’re just going to enjoy the game,” Espejo said.
We’ve got nothing to lose. Of course, there’s a bit of pressure since we already won one game, so we still have a chance to make it to the Round of 16. That win really boosted our confidence.”
WORLD No. 16 Türkiye swept eighth-ranked Canada, 2521, 25-16, 27-25, to remain undefeated and snatch the No. 1 seed in Pool G at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Türkiye set the momentum and broke away with a dominant second set before fending off a late push in the third to upset the six-time Olympian Canada and move to the Round of 16 with an unbeaten 3-0 record. Adis Lagumdzija had 15 points and Efe Mandiraci added 12 points for Turkey which now braces for a clash for the No. 1 spot in Pool B with either Poland or the Netherlands. We came here to compete. I think we showed that,” Lagumdzija said. “We showed we can compete with the best teams. We knew that already, and this is the confirmation of it.” Turkiye also beat higher-ranked Japan and Libya in the group. Qatar, meanwhile, barged
Qatar coach Camilo Soto said. “In this one, we just were winning one set only. And in the last game against a Europe huge team that [is], doing very good in Golden League in Europe.”
“It was very important. First, the victory. And second,
WBy Josef Ramos
INNING a set was the modest goal but winning a match?
“It was a dream come true,” said Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino on Tuesday, the day after the Philippines made world volleyball history by beating Egypt, 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21, before a raucous big crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arens.
“It’s an accomplishment that will surely elevate the landscape of Philippine volleyball,” Tolentino added.
“It was a dream come true,” said Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” The Philippines made world volleyball history by beating Egypt, 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21, before a raucous big crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arens.
Egypt is a big fish the world championship first-timer Philippines landed—nine-time African champion with a best-place 13th spot in the 2010 world championship where it saw action for 11 times and a six-time Olympian and was ninth in 2016 in Rio de Janeiro.
“These men have etched their names in volleyball history and their victory would surely be an inspiration and motivation for the next generation to emulate as role model,” said Tolentino, who added that Philippine sports have swiftly gone elite starting with Hidilyn
Diaz Naranjo’s gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Carlos Yulo’s double gold performance in Paris last year.
“It’s all about setting goals and working very hard to achieve those goals,” said Tolentino, a member of the board of the Local Organizing Committee of the country’s first-time and solo hosting of the world championship.
“It was a long shot, we never aimed that high for Alas Pilipinas in this world championship, but they overachieved,” he said. “I commend the PNVF [Philippine National Volleyball Federation] for this achievement and the support of the entire sports community in this success.” Tolentino reiterated “To build champions, it takes the entire community—the government, the Philippine Sports Commission, the private sector, the Filipino fan, to name a few.” He also stressed that with the victory, the Philippines has earned another niche in the
RAMON “TATS” SUZARA: The breakthrough victory by Alas Pilipinas over Egypt is proof that the system
foundation for bigger ambitions for the national team. ROY DOMINGO
POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino with FIVB president Fabio Azevedo during the opening ceremony
SAMAHANG Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director Erika Dy (center) with (from left) Mac Tallo, coach Chico Lanete, Terrence Romeo and Henry Iloka. MANILA MELMAC PHOTO