THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said the strength and stability of the Philippine banking system was among the main factors for the favorable report from the Japan Credit Rating (JCR) Agency.
JCR cited the country’s stable financial system as one of the key factors behind the Philippines’ sustained investment-grade credit rating of “A-” with a “stable” outlook. The agency also cited strong loan growth, lower non-performing loans ratio, and capital adequacy ratios that are “well above” both Philippine and international standards.
“The BSP continues to implement policies that promote robust capitalization and sound risk management among banks. These support financial stability and further build confidence in the domestic financial system,” BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. said in a statement.
THE Philippines cannot afford to be a mere bystander as the world pivots to using and mastering Artificial Intelligence (AI) to curb corruption and address development challenges.
In his Keynote Message at the 11th Annual Public Policy Conference of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan stressed that learning and using AI is not about replacing humans but enriching people’s lives.
“Let us not remain spectators as the world advances. Let us lead with vision, build with purpose, and in-
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) has ordered the audit of every farmto-market road (FMR) project since 2021 amid the ongoing clamor on controversial flood control works.
The agency explained that even though FMR schemes are identified and validated by the DA, these road projects are commissioned, bid out, and constructed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
As such, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said he is demanding transparency, quality, and results.
“These roads are meant to connect production areas to mar -
kets,” Laurel said. “With what is happening now in flood control projects, I ordered an audit of all FMR projects from 2021 to 2025. If there are any issues in these agricultural road projects, I will have to report that to President Marcos.”
He said the FMR audit should be completed by the end of this year.
“We must make sure they are done properly, that taxpayers’ money were spent to provide farmers with market access and not squandered for farm-to - pocket projects,” Laurel said.
Citing the government’s roadmap, the DA said the target is to build 131,000 kilometers of FMRs to link farms with markets.
Of this, the agency noted that around 70,000 kilometers have been completed, while about
61,000 kilometers are considered backlog or pending validation as of July. With this, Laurel called on lawmakers during the agency’s recent budget hearing to pass legislation that mandates a priority list for FMR projects. Such a move would
veer away from the arbitrary selection of where to build those roads, often merely to satisfy parochial concerns. As such, the DA chief recommended reviewing that priority list every three years to keep it aligned with agricultural needs. Despite this, the DA said funding remains a concern. For 2026, the agency has earmarked P16 billion for FMRs, which is far short of the P56 billion in pending requests from 2025 alone. To stretch resources, Laurel proposed redesigning road dimensions, such as narrower roadways of 3 meters instead of 5 meters, with shoulders every 300 meters to facilitate traffic movement. Such a move is expected to cut costs and build more roads faster.
novate with heart. Together, we can reimagine governance in the age of AI—and ensure that it works for every Filipino,” Balisacan said. Balisacan said the country’s adoption of AI remains saddled by fragmented governance across agencies; inconsistent data practices; and a workforce that is ill-prepared for an AI-driven economy. These challenges are preventing the country from using AI for good governance efforts such as detecting anomalies when it comes to procurement; reducing red tape; and preventing fraud.
Balisacan said AI can also help the elderly through assistive technologies that enhance health care
and promote social inclusion and lifelong learning.
“The recommendations are clear: build a unified national AI strategy, expand digital infrastructure, strengthen data governance, and develop human capital,” Balisacan said.
“In other words, leadership, infrastructure, data, and talent must converge if we are to transform AI’s promise into practice,” he added.
Balisacan said, however, that amid these challenges, much has already been accomplished. He noted that the country’s digital economy grew to P2.1 trillion in 2024 from P1.6 trillion in 2018.
He added that last year, the
country climbed nine places in the Oxford Global AI Readiness Index, scoring 58.5, well above the global average of 47.6.
Balisacan also said the government crafted the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy and aligned it with the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028.
The Department of Trade and Industry, he noted, also has an AI Strategy Roadmap 2.0 which established the Center for AI Research, while the Department of Education ensured that AI knowledge finds its way to Philippine schools.
Further, the Department of Science and Technology has the
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
WITH the Philippines’ strong economic footing and promising outlook, Cebu is poised to sharpen its edge as one of Asia’s premier outsourcing destinations and solidify its role as the country’s vital gateway for trade, according to the Department of Finance (DOF). In his speech during the Phil-
ippine Economic Briefing attended by 500 business leaders and guests in Cebu on Thursday, Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said Cebu is front and center of the Philippine growth story.
“Central Visayas, where Cebu is the economic powerhouse, has been the fastest-growing regional economy in the country—expanding by 7.3 percent for two consecutive years,” Recto said, noting that this helped
DIMER project which makes readyto-use AI models for agriculture, disaster response, and industry, lowering barriers for local stakeholders.
The Department of Information and Communications Technology, through its SPARK initiative, Balisacan said, is scaling up free AI training nationwide.
“These are important milestones. Yet, as Unesco reminds us, progress is often slowed by fragmented rules, limited research capacity, and uneven access. Technology alone cannot fix governance gaps,” Balisacan said. Cai U. Ordinario
Marcos signs law speeding up right-of-way processes
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
ASExecutive Secretary, the Secretaries of Agriculture, Trade and Industry, Budget and Management and the Governor of the Central Bank of the Philippines, as members.
The committee, one of seven interagency committees of the ED Council, evaluates the fiscal, monetary and balance of payments implications of major national projects, and recommends to the President the timetable of their implementation on a regular basis.
It also advises the President on matters related to the domestic and foreign borrowings program and submits a status of the fiscal, monetary and balance of payments implications of major national projects.
part of government efforts to boost the development in the country’s infrastructures and educational system, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed two new laws which will fast-track the implementation of public works and institutionalize professional development among public school teachers.
On Thursday, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed the enactment of Republic Act (RA) No. 12289 or the Accelerated and Reformed Right-of-Way (ARROW) Act.
The new law aims to address the challenges by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in implementing major infra-
on a consolidated basis. The banks also maintained strong asset quality. The non-performing loan ratio declined to 3.1 percent as of end-July 2025 from 3.6 percent in 2021.
Latest data showed that the capital adequacy ratio of universal and commercial banks stood at 16.5 percent
JCR said that while the balance of loans to the real estate industry grew more than 20 percent year-on-year in
structure projects.
In February, DPWH Secretary Vivencio “Vince” B. Dizon, who was then DOTr chief, attributed the slow progress in government public works, such as the Metro Manila Subway, to right-of-way issues. RA 12289 amended RA No. 10752, which is expected to hasten the right-of-way acquisition of the government.
Marcos also signed RA 12288, which institutionalized the Career Progression System for Public School Teachers and School Leaders.
The new law states that the promotions for the positions from Teacher I to Master Teacher I are “non-hierarchical and will be based on a teacher’s fitness and competence.”
It also tasked the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to
2014 and 2015, the growth rate gradually declined since 2016 to 7.9 percent in December 2024.
JCR said this was due mainly to the adoption by banks of cautious lending standards in a bid to curb the NPL ratio.
“Housing prices rose about 8 percent year-on-year in 2024, but there was no feeling of overheating in comparison to the nominal GDP growth rate,” JCR said.
The report also noted the country’s easing inflation and robust gross international reserves (GIR). Inflation averaged 1.7 percent during the first eight months of the year, while GIR reached $105.9 billion in end-August 2025. The GIR is equivalent to 7.2 months’ worth of imports and 3.4 times the country’s short-term external debt.
“The ratings mainly reflect the
Grassroots…
event’s press conference.
Solidum stressed the role of the private sector in reporting R&D spending and deepening industry collaboration.
“To entice students to go into science, engineering, math, and creative arts, we must have an appetite to employ them. We may also need to modify education to include work-integrated learning. It should not just be memorization but strategic thinking,” he said.
Also, upskilling in artificial intelligence and other digital applications should begin as early as elementary years, he added.
“We need to further increase infrastructure,” Solidum said. “And of course, we need to accelerate the use of new equipment. We are already thinking of ways to go about procuring this equipment.”
In 2023, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) reported that the Philippines’ R&D expenditure
create new teaching position titles of Teacher IV, Teacher V, Teacher VI, Teacher VII, Master Teacher V, Master Teacher VI, and School Principal V to expand opportunities available for promotion.
For this purpose, the Civil Service Commission, and the Department of Education (DepEd), the Teacher Education Council (TEC), and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) were tasked to harmonize the qualification standards for teaching positions in all levels of the public school system, taking into consideration the Standards-Based Assessment as mandated by the Act. DepEd, CSC, PRC, and DBM in consultation with the TEC and other education stakeholders will issue the implementing rules and regulations of RA 12288 within 90 days of the law’s effectivity.
country’s high and sustainable economic growth supported by solid domestic demand, low-level external debt and resilience to external shocks supported by accumulated foreign exchange reserves. However, reducing income disparity through rural development and infrastructure development remains a key challenge,” the report said.
JCR also said the country’s “solid foreign currency liquidity position” will allow it to stay “remarkably resilient” against external shocks.
An investment-grade rating reflects low credit risk, which helps lower borrowing costs. This, in turn, allows the government to channel more resources toward socially beneficial programs and initiatives.
stood at 0.2 percent of gross domestic product, one of the lowest in Southeast Asia.
To address this, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will increase its budget for research, development, and commercialization of priority technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and smart agriculture.
The agency’s national allocation will rise to P30.4 billion in 2026, from P28.46 billion in 2025.
The NIC is also rolling out the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document (NIASD) 20232032, which focuses on increasing investments in science and technology, expanding access to digital infrastructure and cultivating a larger pool of highly trained innovation professionals.
The strategy includes reviewing policies on business registration and exit, developing a sandbox policy guide to foster an innovation-friendly environment, and launching the National Innovation Monitoring and Evaluation Matrix (NIMEx) to better coordinate and track outcomes.
fuel national growth.
Recto also spotlighted the country’s fiscal consolidation plan, low inflation and vibrant labor force that places the Philippines “firmly on track” to becoming the world’s 13thlargest consumer market by 2030.
“[This will give] vast opportunities for businesses right here in Cebu,” the Finance chief said. By the same year, the Philippines will also rank among the world’s top 26 economies in terms of nominal gross domestic product, as projected by the International Monetary Fund. The country’s recent credit rating upgrade and affirmations also attest to global investors’ trust in the Philippine economy, with business expansion plans by Japanese and Indian investors under way, bringing direct benefits to Cebu, Recto added.
“Our strong fundamentals and promising economic outlook will certainly sharpen Cebu’s edge as one of Asia’s premier outsourcing destinations. This will also strengthen Cebu’s position as the vital gateway for trade linking Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao to Asia and the rest of the world,” Recto said.
These prospects will also cement Cebu’s dominance in shipbuilding, furniture, and food processing industries and reinforce its stature as a world-class tourism magnet, Recto added.
In addition, the establishment of AI Tech Academy in Cebu will transform its 45 ecozones into hotspots for advanced manufacturing, data analytics and AI-powered solutions.
“Clearly, Cebu has outgrown its role as a regional hub. It now stands as a national powerhouse that competes, creates, and connects the entire Philippines to the world,” Recto said.
For the government’s part, Recto told Cebu’s business community that their investments will be protected and promises will be delivered for their businesses to grow and drive national progress.
“We are cutting red tape, rewarding innovation, and making it easier, faster, and more profitable to do business in the Philippines. Because this administration is fully committed to doing everything in its power to help you succeed. For when the private sector wins, the Filipino nation wins,” Recto added.
Meanwhile, the DOF met with Cebu’s government officials to pledge their support in areas such as fiscal management, revenue generation and rollout of priority reforms. Recto was joined by Chief of Staff and Undersecretary Maria Luwalhati C. Dorotan Tiuseco, Undersecretary Charlito Martin R. Mendoza and Assistant Secretary Euvimil Nina Asuncion.
live caller IDs, and a smart SMS assistant.
Aside from these, Gogolook has gamified the Whoscall app in the Philippines—the first among its territories—to boost engagement. Specifically, the app has gamified scam reporting through the new “Whoscall Mission,” rewarding users with points redeemable for premium features or partner vouchers. Whoscall, free to download in the Philippines, also offers premium packages, including new Duo and Family plans.
The company is banking on these offerings—and growing awareness of AI-driven threats—to drive a strong expansion of its local user base this year. Based in Taiwan, Whoscall is present in 57 countries.
“Last year, 9.5 million users from 57 countries contributed 135 million reports, establishing Whoscall as a leading global anti-scam community. Going forward, Whoscall will not only serve as a tool but also as a partner that grows with users and brings peace of mind to their everyday digital interactions,” Gogolook Co-Founder and Global CEO Jeff Kuo said.
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Lacson to subpoena no show ex-DPWH exec
of the DPWH.”
TBy Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
HE Senate blue-ribbon committee decided to subpoena controversial former Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to shed light on her offer to lawmakers to submit “insertions” in the National Expenditures Program (NEP) or proposed national government budget.
Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson, committee chairman, ordered the issuance of the subpoena after Sen. Rodante Marcoleta made the motion, seconded by Sen. Erwin Tulfo, and expressed dismay that Cabral had skipped Thursday’s committee hearing simply because she had already resigned the day before.
Senators told Public Works Secretary Vivencio Dizon that, while he had accepted the resignation of Cabral, she could still be held accountable for wrongdoing when she was undersecretary.
Marcoleta earlier noted to the committee that “Usec Maria Catalina Cabral was invited but I don’t see her in this room.”
Dizon then volunteered, “I want to inform the body that I officially accepted the courtesy resignation of Undersecretary Cabral two nights ago. And I believe, Mr. Chairman, that I think she wrote a letter. She informed me by message late last night that she had written the committee to inform of the acceptance of her courtesy resignation and thus no longer needed to attend.”
Dizon assured the committee, however, that “of course, even if she is now just a private citizen and no longer part of the DPWH, I’m sure if the committee will require her to attend, she still must attend, but no longer as an official
Marcoleta said, “I don’t think her resignation will shield her from her responsibility. There are personal questions that we need to ask her. More particularly, Mr. Chair [Lacson], your own expose, I still recall in your last privilege speech, her text message to Senator Sotto is very damning. I mean, it is something that we need to properly process. It is something that is probably within the heart of the system of DPWH. So kahit na mag-resign po siya, it will not matter to us.”
Dizon had earlier told Lacson that Cabral first denied, then admitted sending a text message to then newly elected Sen. Vicente Sotto III, inviting him to send items for “insertion” in the DPWH’s submissions for the 2026 NEP. Lacson said Cabral was “lying through her teeth” because Dizon had confronted her already with screenshots of her “offer” to Sotto, who has since been elected Senate President.
QC projects
A CONTRACTOR on Thursday admitted before the Lacson committee that he paid “standard operating procedure” kickbacks of 10 to 25 percent to DPWH officials in exchange for flood control projects in Quezon City.
Pacifico Discaya, owner of St. Gerrard Construction, initially invoked his right against self-incrimination when pressed by Sen.
Teodoro calls for stronger defense posture, more deterrent capabilities
By Rex Anthony Naval
DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro on Wednesday reiterated the need for a stronger Philippine defense posture and a more credible deterrent capability to make the country earn international respect.
Teodoro made statement during the September General Membership Meeting of the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) on Wednesday.
“Philippine resilience per se on a national defense basis is essential. No country in the world is taken seriously at face value, no matter how diplomatic you want
to be, without a strong defense backbone,” Teodoro said.
The meeting of AmCham anchored on the theme “Safeguarding the Philippines in a Changing Geopolitical Landscape,” the engagement provided a venue for open dialogue between the defense sector and the business community on advancing a secure, stable, and rules-based environment for development.
He also cited the need for a “strong deterrent backbone,” adding, “the smaller the country, the stronger the deterrence [should be].”
Teodoro added the importance of alliances and partnerships, noting that visiting forces agreements
are a clear expression of support for Philippine sovereignty and international law.
Teodoro said the growing number of visiting forces agreements (VFAs) the Philippines has with other countries is “the highest expression of support for the Arbitral Award,” referring to the landmark 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration favoring the Philippines’ case against China in connection with the West Philippine Sea issue.
The Philippines presently has three existing VFAs with the United States, Australia and Japan, with four more underway—with New Zealand, Canada, France and the United Kingdom.
Imminent disaster law signing to save lives–Salceda
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
AFORMER lawmaker said on Thursday the enactment of Republic Act 12287, or the Declaration of State of Imminent Disaster Act—a disaster preparedness strategy first tested in Albay—has now become a national policy that could save more lives across the Philippines. Earlier, President Marcos signed RA12287 or the Declaration of State of Imminent Disaster Act. The new law allows the President and local officials to declare a “State of Imminent Disaster” upon the recommendations of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management, respectively, after the these agencies conduct the pre-disaster risk assessment. The pre-disaster risk assessment must contain the expected impact of a disaster and prepared with sufficient lead time, which may range three to five days to initiate anticipatory action interventions. Upon the declaration of State of
Imminent Disaster, the national or concerned local government (LGU) may use national and local resources and mechanisms to implement anticipatory actions within identified or allowable lead time.
Former Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda welcomed the signing into law of Republic Act 12287, crediting Albay’s pioneering disaster preparedness measures as among the roots of the policy now adopted nationally.
“This doctrine of anticipatory action, that you prepare not just when the disaster has struck but when it is imminent, was pioneered in Albay. That saved countless lives. Preparation during a state of imminent disaster is at the heart of Albay’s Zero Casualty Doctrine,” Salceda said. Salceda, who served as Albay governor from 2007 to 2016, recalled that the province first implemented the concept in September 2007 through a joint memorandum circular issued by the Departments of Budget and Management (DBM) and of the Interior and Local Government (DILG and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD). In 2009, he also declared an
Anna Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros to present ledgers of transactions.
But under persistent questioning, he confirmed that his company made the payments in cash once projects were awarded.
“Labag man sa kalooban, pero nagbabayad kayo, tama?”
[Against your will, but you still pay, correct?] Hontiveros asked.
Discaya replied: “Yes, Your Honor.”
Discaya said the money was usually withdrawn in bulk and delivered in paper bags, either at luxury hotels or directly inside DPWH offices.
He admitted that the demand for cash came after projects were awarded and that his company gave in out of fear that contracts could be canceled or delayed.
Hontiveros warned that such practices reveal the “floodgates of corruption,” with taxpayers suffering three times: through overpriced projects, persistent flooding despite supposed flood controls, and the cost of repeatedly drafting master plans that are ignored.
The senator also requested the Anti-Money Laundering Council to submit reports on suspicious transactions involving contractors and DPWH officials.
Sotto reminded Discaya that he enjoys legislative immunity when testifying in congressional hearings, and encouraged him to disclose details fully.
The committee, meanwhile, cited Discaya in contempt for giving inconsistent statements on the absence of his wife, Cezarah Rowena Dicaya, at the ongoing inquiry into alleged anomalies in flood control projects.
Sen. Raffy Tulfo moved to hold Discaya in contempt after noting contradictions between his testimony and the letter submitted by his wife to the committee.
Sen. Erwin Tulfo seconded the motion, which was approved by Lacson.
During the hearing, Discaya initially claimed that his wife was unable to attend due to a heart condition.
However, the letter she sent to the panel cited a conflicting reason—a previously scheduled meeting with her employees.
Sen. Jinggoy Estrada pressed Discaya for the “valid reason” behind his wife’s absence, while Sotto first raised the question on why she was absent.
Lacson then read Mrs. Discaya’s letter, which emphasized her regret at missing the hearing because of a work commitment.
This further contradicted Curlee Discaya’s claim that health issues prevented her attendance.
“Very inconsistent ang pinagsasabi nito. Mag-asawa sila at imposibleng hindi sila naguusap sa health condition ng misis niya. Pinagloloko tayo ng mga ito [What he is saying is very
inconsistent. They are husband and wife and it’s impossible that they are unaware of each other’s health condition. They are fooling us],” Sen. Raffy Tulfo said. Sen. Erwin Tulfo also remarked that the couple’s differing excuses only highlighted their lack of coordination.
Former Bulacan District Engineer Henry Alcantara was also cited in contempt for denying knowledge of ghost projects in his jurisdiction despite evidence presented at the hearing.
Lacson said Alcantara’s statements ran contrary to records and testimonies that linked him to questionable flood control projects flagged in the inquiry.
“The committee cannot accept these denials in the face of contrary documents,” Lacson said.
The Senate is investigating alleged irregularities in flood control projects worth billions of pesos, with contractors and DPWH personnel under scrutiny for ghost works, substandard infrastructure, and possible bid-rigging.
The Senate is investigating alleged irregularities in flood control projects worth billions of pesos, including so-called “ghost” works, substandard infrastructure, and questionable bidding processes. The inquiry has placed contractors and DPWH personnel under scrutiny following reports of widespread corruption in allocations from 2022 to 2024. With PNA
Suzuki Philippines Brings You The Fronx Nationwide Experience this September 19–21!
alert-level status over Mayon Volcano and mobilized anticipatory measures before its eruption, making Albay among the first provinces to adopt the doctrine.
That was useful because the high alert level status, while already dangerous and needing mobilization of calamity funds, did not at that point qualify for the normal metrics of what is an actual calamity,” he explained.
The law also reflects provisions Salceda had earlier pushed in his proposed Department of Disaster Resilience Bill, which sought to institutionalize anticipatory action nationwide.
“I am grateful to Congress and to President Marcos for enacting this law, because a concept so crucial to disaster planning, pioneered in Albay, will now finally help other provinces also prepare better,” Salceda added.
For Salceda, RA 12287 is proof that Albay’s innovations in disaster risk reduction—anchored on its “Zero Casualty Doctrine”—can shape national policy.
IT’S time to Vibe Different! Suzuki Philippines is thrilled to invite everyone to The Fronx Nationwide Experience, a special nationwide showcase of the bold and dynamic all-new Suzuki Fronx Hybrid happening on September 19 to 21, 2025.
The Fronx Hybrid is not just another vehicle—it’s a fresh expression of style, efficiency, and smart hybrid technology. With its sporty coupeinspired design and dynamic performance, the Fronx is built for Filipinos who want to stand out, explore more, and embrace a lifestyle on the move.
Beyond its striking looks and efficiency, the Fronx also puts safety at the forefront. The top-grade SGX variant comes equipped with Suzuki Safety Support technologies, providing advanced driver-assist functions alongside a full complement of occupant protection systems, giving drivers and passengers peace of mind with every journey. During this three-day event,
Suzuki dealerships nationwide will host showroom displays and activities to showcase the Fronx Hybrid. Selected dealerships will also offer exclusive test drive opportunities, giving you the chance to experience firsthand why the Fronx Hybrid is set to be Suzuki’s next big hit.
ABOUT
SUZUKI PHILIPPINES Suzuki Philippines Incorporated is a wholly-owned Japanese multinational firm highly recognized in the automotive industry. The company specializes in the manufacture and sale of motorcycles and the distribution of compact vehicles and outboard motors. Suzuki has established its reputation worldwide for quality, versatility, and innovation, and has created a heritage of trust and reliability. www.suzuki.com.ph.
Important Reminder: While the event is nationwide, not all Suzuki dealerships will be offering test drives. Some will have Fronx showroom displays only, while others will feature both display and test drive activities. To check which dealerships near you are participating and in what capacity, simply click or go to the link to see the list of dealers: https:// auto.suzuki.com.ph/pages/fronxnationwide-experience. Mark your calendars and bring your friends and family! Don’t miss The Fronx Nationwide Experience on September 19–21, 2025. Be among the first to Vibe Different with the all-new Suzuki Fronx Hybrid! For more information, you may check out any authorized Suzuki Auto dealerships nationwide or visit http:// suzuki.com.ph/auto/. For daily updates on Suzuki, please like Suzuki Auto PH’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ SuzukiAutoPH, follow them on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ SuzukiAutoPH and Instagram at @suzukiautoph.
House to start plenary deliberations on national govt 2026 budget bill
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE House of Representatives
Committee on Appropriations has wrapped up its month-long deliberations on House Bill 4058, or the proposed P6.793-trillion General Appropriations bill (GAB) for fiscal year 2026, with its chairperson vowing to deliver “a budget that we’re proud of,” ensuring that every peso is properly allocated to government programs.
Nueva Ecija Rep. Mikaela Suansing, panel chairwoman, said the committee adjourned its hearings late Wednesday and is now finalizing the committee report in time for the start of plenary debates on Monday, September 22.
“This is actually a very historic moment for the Committee on Appropriations. This punctuates the one month of committee deliberations that we have done. We began on August 18, and it has been very eventful, to say the least. But we made it,” Suansing said. She noted that committee members endured long hours—averaging 12 to 13 hours per day—to scrutinize agency budgets and en -
sure every peso would be allocated to programs that directly benefit the people.
“From today until the plenary debates next week, there will be five sleepless nights just to prepare the committee report in time for plenary deliberations on Monday. But we assure our members in the House, and of course, the Filipino people, that the Committee on Appropriations will work hard to come up with a budget that will ensure transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to the people’s needs,” she stressed. Suansing also expressed hope that the intensive committee-level discussions would pave the way for
“smooth sailing” plenary deliberations, though she acknowledged that policy debates are expected as lawmakers refine the proposed spending plan.
One of the most significant revisions in the 2026 national budget involves the Department of Public Works and Highways.
Public Works Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon recommended the removal of allocations for locallyfunded flood-control projects.
The agency’s revised budget now stands at P625.784 billion, down from the original P881.312 billion, reflecting a reduction of P255.258 billion, or 28.99 percent.
Suansing said the revisions in the DPWH budget were the result of close coordination between the House, the Committee on Appropriations, the DPWH, and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
“And that’s what really happened over the course of the last 10 days. And that’s the only way that we were able to have this revised budget of the DPWH,” Suansing explained.
Pending the release of the committee report, Suansing did not provide further details on the other changes made to the 2026 national budget.
No changes
HOUSE Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos said there will be no changes in the chairmanships or the leadership composition of the House of Representatives while Congress is in the middle of deliberations for the P6.793-trillion national budget.
The House on Wednesday elected Isabela Rep. Faustino Dy III as the new Speaker of the 20th Congress, succeeding Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, who stepped down from the post.
Marcos said the plenary deliberations on the proposed 2026 national budget will begin on Monday and are expected to stretch until the early hours of the following days.
“In my view, we are in the middle of the budget. We need to pass the most important law of t he land, which is the budget. So there would be no changes for now in the chairmanships or the composition of the leadership. It’s too disruptive,” Marcos told reporters. He said any possible adjustments in the House leadership would depend on THE Speaker, but only after the budget process is completed.
“We start the plenary debate on Monday, and those debates last until the early hours of the morning. During plenary deliberations, we don’t hold committee hearings to allow lawmakers to attend. So, if there are no committee hearings, there is no need to change the composition of the chairmanship and the leadership of the House,” Marcos explained.
The 2026 national budget is 7.4 percent higher than the enacted FY 2025 budget of P6.326 trillion.
With the theme “Agenda for Prosperity: Nurturing FutureReady Generations to Achieve the Full Potential of the Nation,” the proposed budget for next year will build on the solid foundations laid by the Marcos administration in the past few years.
Still anchored on the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 20232028, the Department of Budget and Management said the 2026 budget will prioritize the essentials that uphold the fundamental rights of the people, such as the right to quality and accessible education; strengthened healthcare systems and services; expanded social protection programs; and food security.
Dole mobilizes local job offices for displaced construction workers
By Justine Xyrah Garcia & Ma. Alyanna Selda
THE Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) has mobilized all local employment offices nationwide to assist construction workers who lost their jobs after the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) suspended flood- control projects pending an investigation into alleged anomalies.
In a memorandum dated September 10, the labor department instructed Public Employment Service Offices (Peso) to roll out assistance under existing programs and to immediately profile affected workers.
“In this regard, may we request all Pesomap Regional Presidents to immediately coordinate with their respective Pesos [to assist] displaced workers through appropriate interventions available under existing Dole programs and services,” the order said.
The directive, signed by Officer-in-Charge Assistant Secretary Patrick P. Patriwirawan Jr., also required local offices to collect and consolidate names, contact details, type of work, and site locations of displaced workers.
All Pesos were given until September 17 to “facilitate timely interventions and referrals to appropriate programs.”
Some Pesos have also taken to social media to call on affected workers to register.
In Mercedes, Camarines Norte, Peso Manager Charles Ville urged construction workers affected by the DPWH suspension to visit
DOE-led group orders govt agencies to use energy-saving products
THE Department of Energy
(DOE)-led Inter-Agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Committee (IAEECC)
has mandated all government agencies to comply with Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) which basically calls for the reduction in power consumption while shifting to sustainable energy sources.
“This is more than compliance, it’s a statement of our firm resolve to build a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable Philippines starting with the government,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said.
The directive was formalized during the committee’s 21st meeting last Tuesday.
The MEPS, which form part of the Philippine Energy Labeling Program (PELP), set the baseline efficiency levels that appliances, equipment, and other energy-consuming products must meet before they can be sold or used.
Through PELP, MEPS ensures that government agencies procure only compliant products, enabling
long-term cost savings and lower energy consumption.
“Every peso the government saves on electricity is a peso we can redirect to vital services for our people. By requiring energyefficient products and prioritizing solar rooftops, we are not only reducing costs but also setting an example for every household, business, and community,” added Garin.
Moving forward, the IAEECC intends to put up dedicated Energy Efficiency and Conservation (EEC) offices in local governments (LGUs) to empower them to design tailored energy-saving programs and give communities more control over their consumption.
The IAEECC will meet again in December.
IAEECC members present during the recent meeting include the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Budget and Management, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Transportation, and Department of Finance. Lenie Lectura
their municipal office to enlist.
“All workers, construction workers affected by the stoppage of DPWH projects related to flood control...are invited to register at the Municipal Peso of Mercedes… so they may be endorsed to Dole and provided with appropriate assistance,” the post read.
In Lanao del Norte, Peso Baloi issued a similar notice urging displaced workers to register online through a Google Form or by scanning a QR code.
The form asked workers to provide their name, nature of work, position, project site or location, reason for removal from work, and a valid ID.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma earlier said that Dole regional directors were also tasked to confirm with DPWH which flood control sites had suspended operations.
“We have laid out possible interventions from DOLE, but what is most important is that in planning any measure, we also consult with workers’ and employers’ groups,” Laguesma said during a forum.
He added that emergency employment under the agency’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged-Displaced Workers (Tupad) program would be “very useful” for affected workers, alongside training for those who need to upgrade their skills.
“And for those who need additional skills, we are hearing from some construction employers that there are shortages…what we need now is upskilling,” the secretary said.
By John Eiron R. Francisco
DATA is a vital source of knowledge and learning, but unclear rules and privacy concerns are preventing government agencies from sharing information, a recent study has found. Its author urged a freer flow of data to strengthen governance.
Oliver Xavier Reyes, a former judicial staff head at the Supreme Court, said the study conducted by the Data for Development Asia Hub (D4DHub) found that data governance in South and Southeast Asia remains hampered by vague internal rules.
He pointed to the Social Security System (SSS) as an example, noting that the agency holds valuable employment records from the private sector. If shared with institutions such as the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) or government economic planners, the information could lead to more accurate policies. Yet despite few legal barriers, agencies often keep data siloed.
Reyes explained that many
Tgovernment offices are hesitant to exchange information because of concerns over the Data Privacy Act, even though the law contains provisions permitting the use of personal data for public functions.
“Data is knowledge. Data is a source of learning. So, because data has that value as a source of knowledge, as a source of learning, as much as possible, we want data to be free-flowing,” said Reyes, who also serves as a policy officer with the Law, Technology, and Policy Program at the University of the Philippines Law Center. He added that broader access to information benefits not only citizens but also government institutions.
“We learn from data, we become better informed people, we become better citizens because of data,” Reyes said, “In the same way, the government, the more data is shared with government agencies. Among different government agencies,
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
HE Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) has approved housing loans for more than 3,400 families under its Enhanced Community Mortgage Program (ECMP), placing the agency 68 percent toward its October target of assisting over 5,000 beneficiaries.
The ECMP, introduced in July as a revised form of the government’s community mortgage scheme, provides financing for homeowners’ associations to acquire land and develop sites.
Seven projects cleared in September accounted for the bulk of recent approvals, including Villa Soledad Homeowners’ Association Inc. in Pasig City; Pagkakaisang Maralita ng Antipolo Phase II in Rizal; Msgr. Eddie L. Eleazar Village in Quezon; Don Vicente Villas Phase 8 in Laguna; Zone 5 San Juan Bautista and San Roque Block 7 Resettlement in Tarlac; and Ylagan Ville Phase 1 in Oriental Mindoro.
SHFC said it expects additional approvals in the coming weeks to meet the initial batch target of 5,000 beneficiaries.
The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has previously noted that budget constraints and limited private developer capacity have reduced the overall housing target, with only 300,000 units projected for delivery by 2028.
JBC defers deliberations for Ombudsman shortlist
TBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
HE Judicial and Bar Council
(JBC) has deferred its sched-
uled deliberations for the shortlist of nominees for Ombudsman that will be submitted to the Office of the President.
In a statement, the Supreme Court spokesman, Camille Sue Mae Ting, said the deliberation was supposed to be conducted on Friday (September 19) but was deferred to allow the newly appointed Senate Committee on Justice chairperson, Sen. Francis Pangilinan, to review the application documents.
Ting clarified that the deferment covers not only the Ombudsman post, which has been left vacant since the retirement of former Ombudsman Samuel Martires last July
27, but also other vacancies currently being processed by the JBC.
“The Judicial and Bar Council has rescheduled its deliberation, originally set for September 19, to a later date. The session will instead be held in the coming weeks,” Ting said.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla is one of those who applied for the position, but has yet to submit a clearance from the Office of the Ombudsman, where he is facing several criminal cases in connection with the arrest and subsequent turnover to the International Criminal Court of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Ting explained that a clearance from the Ombudsman is one of the requirements for applicants under the 2020 Revised Rules of the JBC.
PHL, UAE to develop AI-driven govt practices
THE Philippines is collaborating with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), that will provide technical assistance, for more efficient government processes through digitalization.
Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said on Wednesday at the sidelines of the Government Experience Exchange Retreat that she is optimistic about learning digitalization competitiveness from the UAE representatives.
Pangandaman said that they are working together on three projects that cannot be disclosed for now.
“As a strategy, the Philippines also makes it a point to find innovative ways to propel good governance and enhance bureaucratic efficiency through the use of digitalization,” she told reporters.
Pangandaman also confirmed that the proposed budget for digital transformation in 2026 will have a 250 percent increase.
Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange of UAE Abdulla Nasser Lootah said that they will assist in ensuring the “quality of life across all sectors” through digital services.
“Services that are digital, realtime, with the minimum procedures required from the citizens and the private sector in the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates,” Lootah said.
Data. . .
Continued from A4
the better informed they become,” he added, stressing that many decisions in government should be based on correct information.
Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Aguda, who was also present in the event, highlighted the administration’s newly rolled out electronic complaint management system in his speech.
The system highlights the “Talk to T.A.L.A.” feature, which is an AI complaints officer tool operating 24 hours that uses natural language processing.
“AI and blockchain are not just technologies, they are enablers of good governance, economic growth, and citizen trust,” Aguda said.
The participants of the forum were divided into five clusters to discuss five different aspects of the exchange.
The first cluster is designated to discuss strategy and innovation aimed at keeping governments “agile, resilient, and ready for change,” while cluster two tackles government excellence performance that is aimed to raise the standards for the well-being of the two countries’ people.
Meanwhile, clusters three and four are dedicated to prioritizing citizens and the private sector, and statistical competitiveness.
The fifth cluster is assigned to talk about artificial intelligence and future foresight.
The Philippines and the UAE celebrated their 51st anniversary of diplomatic relations in August. Mary Jade Gale Jadormio
‘Digitize public records’ REYES also addressed concerns that transparency could be “weaponized,” pointing to the long-standing Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALNs) required of public officials. Mandated since the 1960s—when records were expected to be accessed in person during office hours—the SALN remains largely physical even though it could easily be digitized.
“If our government were more proactive in giving life to the SALN requirement, they could have ordered the SALNs digitized and made them accessible online,”he said, noting that there is currently no law mandating this.
“Maybe there is little legislative appetite for doing so,” Reyes said.
“And you can already assume some motives of members of Congress that maybe they would want it harder rather than easier to make their SALNs accessible. But again, whatever the motives, it speaks to how our laws—our thinking— have to adjust to the digital age.”
Reyes emphasized that the nature of public records has
Under Rule 4 (Integrity and Probity), applicants with pending administrative and criminal cases are disqualified for appointment to any judicial posts or to the positions of Ombudsman, Deputy Ombudsman Special Prosecutor or Chairperson or Regular Member of the Legal Education Board.
The Ombudsman has earlier dismissed the complaint for graft, arbitrary detention, grave threats, false testimony, perjury, usurpation of authority or official functions and for violation of Republic Act 7438 or An Act Defining Certain Rights of Person Arrested, Detained or Under Custodial Investigation As Well as the Duties of the Arresting, Detaining and Investigating Officers, filed by Sen. Imee Marcos.
Marcos, an ally of Vice President Sara Duterte, who in turn is facing
an archived impeachment case at the Senate, spearheaded the investigation to identify the government officials who may have violated certain laws in turning over Duterte to the ICC despite the country’s withdrawal from the Rome Statute on March 19, 2018 which took effect a year after.
All of the crimes imputed on the former President were all allegedly committed when the Philippines was still a signatory of the Rome Statute.
The lay senator, however, said she has filed a motion for reconsideration of the Ombudsman’s dismissal of the complaint.
To further prevent the appointment of Remulla as Ombudsman, acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte on September 15 also filed eight counts of kidnapping under
Article 267 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC); eight counts of arbitrary detention under Article 124 of the RPC; qualified direct assault under Article 148 of the RPC; two count of expulsion under Article 127 of the RPC; and usurpation of judicial functions under Article 241 of the RPC; and violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act against Remulla and several other government officials responsible for handing over his father to the ICC.
A separate graft and detention charges were also filed against Remulla by lawyer Ferdinand Topacio for the alleged warrantless arrest of his client Cassandra Li Ong, a representative of Lucky South 99, a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (Pogo), last August 2024.
Remulla claimed that the filing of these charges were part of
a concerted effort to derail his bid for the Ombudsman post. Aside from Remullla, other applicants for the Ombudsman post are retured Marikina regonal trial court judge Felix Reyes, Albay Municipal Trial Court Judge Jason Rodena, retired Laoag City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Judge Benjamin Turgano, Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Geraldine Faith Econg, Commission on Human Rights Commissioner Beda Epres, Supreme Court Associate Justice Samuel Gaerlan and former Bureau of Internal Revenue commissioner Kim Jacinto-Henares, Deputy Executive Secretary Anna Lisa Logan, retired SC Associate Justice Mario Lopez, PDP Laban secretary-general Melvin Matibag and Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Michael Frederick Musngi.
Interpol’s Asian meet to address regional crime threats
POLICE leaders and experts from across Asia and beyond are gathering at the Interpol Global Complex for Innovation (IGCI) in Singapore to address the region’s most pressing security challenges.
The two-day meeting on Wednesday and Thursday brings together some 165 participants from 49 countries to discuss subjects including cybercrime, fugitive tracking, human exploitation in the digital age and wildlife crime.
Targeting the region’s booming trade in synthetic drugs, delegates will also be briefed on the recent Operation Lionfish-Mayag, which resulted in record-breaking seizures valued at US$6.5 billion, including:
n 76 tons of illicit drugs, including 51 tons of methamphetamine
n 297 million methamphetamine pills (known as “yaba”)
n Significant quantities of heroin and cocaine
n Enough fentanyl to cause an estimated 151 million deaths
Regional and global impact WITH Asian countries making up more than a quarter of Interpol’s membership, the region is central to global security.
Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza said: “The threats we face today demand a faster, smarter and more united response.
“At the same time, the expertise, challenges and needs of police across the region are many
changed. “We are no longer dealing primarily with physical paper. Online digitized papers allow for the greater flow of information, greater access to information. But there are still insufficient efforts to take full advantage of that,” he said.
He maintained that more information on public documents and records is “a good” even if there are fears of misuse.
“Then again, these are public officers—public officers who are subject to all of these accountability requirements. The law perfectly recognizes that. The Constitution perfectly recognizes that. So that shouldn’t really be part of the thinking there,” he said.
and varied.
“Gathering police leaders from across Asia, and beyond, is an opportunity to identify ways to build resilience and develop a common strategy to benefit the region in our shared mission to make the world a safer place.”
Deputy Commissioner of the Singapore Police Force How Kwang Hwee said: “Singapore
welcomes, supports and celebrates multilateral efforts which synergise and value-add to our collective endeavour against transnational crimes and terrorism.
“As such, the role of INTERPOL is more critical than ever and the IGCI is well placed to contribute as one of the enabling components of an overarching strategy to address
the most pressing and complex crime threats of our time.”
Over the two-day meeting, chaired by Interpol’s Executive Committee Delegate for Asia, Ali Mohammed Al-Ali, event participants explored how to harness data, digital forensics, and advanced policing tools to detect crime earlier and disrupt it more effectively.
Continued from A3
president and local chief executives to declare a state of imminent disaster in areas forecasted to be hit by severe hazards, enabling the government to mobilize resources, issue advisories, and conduct preemptive evacuations even before a disaster strikes. With Sam Medenilla Disaster. . .
Signed by President Marcos on September 12, RA 12287 institutionalizes anticipatory action as part of the country’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management system. The law authorizes the
“Albay has long served as the laboratory of the Philippines for disaster risk reduction. This law is proof that lessons learned from the province can shape national policy. I look forward to seeing it save more lives across the country,” Salceda said.
Federal Reserve cuts key rate for
By Christopher Rugaber AP Economics Writer
WASHINGTON—The Federal Reserve cut its key interest rate by a quarter-point
Wednesday and projected it would do so twice more this year as concern grows at the central bank about the health of the nation’s labor market.
The move is the Fed’s first cut since December and lowered its short-term rate to about 4.1 percent, down from 4.3 percent. Fed officials, led by Chair Jerome Powell, had kept their rate unchanged this year as they evaluated the impact of tariffs, tighter immigration enforcement, and other Trump administration policies on inflation and the economy.
Yet the central bank’s focus has shifted quickly from inflation, which remains modestly above its 2 percent target, to jobs, as hiring has grounded nearly to a halt in recent months and the unemployment rate has ticked higher. Lower interest rates could reduce borrowing costs for mortgages, car loans, and business loans, and boost growth and hiring.
“It’s really the risks that we’re seeing to the labor market that were the focus of today’s decision,” Powell said at a press conference fol -
lowing the Fed’s two-day meeting. Still, Powell did not lay the groundwork for a rapid series of cuts, disappointing some investors. Fed officials, in a set of projections also released Wednesday, signaled that they expect to reduce their key rate twice more this year, but just once in 2026. Before the meeting, investors on Wall Street had projected five cuts for the rest of this year and next.
And Powell noted that the committee was pretty evenly split on whether to cut rates once or twice more this year. As a result, he said that the projected cuts should be seen as more a “probability” than a “certainty.” Powell and the Fed “wanted to be noncommital, wanted to be careful, and wanted to be data dependent and keep all their options open for future policy,” said Matt Luzzetti, chief US economist at Deutsche Bank.
The broad S&P 500 stock index ticked down 0.1 percent by the close of trading, while the Nasdaq also fell.
The Dow Jones industrial average moved up 0.5 percent.
Just one Fed policymaker dissented from the decision: Stephen Miran, who President Donald Trump appointed and was confirmed by the Senate in a rushed vote late Monday just hours before the meeting began.
first time this year
Miran preferred a larger half-point cut, but Powell told reporters there wasn’t “very much support” for the bigger-size cut among Fed officials.
Many economists had forecast there would be additional dissents, and the meeting’s outcome suggests that Powell was able to patch together a show of unity from a committee that includes Miran and two other Trump appointees from his first term, as well as a Fed governor, Lisa Cook, whom Trump is seeking to fire.
Still, there were still significant differences among the 19 officials on the Fed’s rate-setting committee about where the Fed should go next.
Seven policymakers indicated they don’t support any further cuts, while two supported just one more and 10 favor at least two more. One official—likely Miran—indicated that they would support several large cuts to bring the Fed’s rate to 2.9 percent by year’s end. Fed officials submit their forecasts of future rate moves anonymously.
Powell said the wide divergence reflects the uncertain outlook for the economy, given that inflation remains stubborn even as hiring has stumbled.
“There are no risk-free paths now,” Powell said. “It’s not incredibly obvious what to do.”
The Fed is facing both a challenging economic environment and threats to its traditional independence from day-to-day politics. At the same time that hiring has weakened, inflation remains stubbornly elevated. It rose 2.9 percent in August from a year ago, according to the consumer price index, up from 2.7 percent in July and noticeably above the Fed’s 2 percent target.
It’s unusual to have weaker hiring and elevated inflation, because typically a slowing economy causes consumers to pull back on spending, cooling price hikes. Powell suggested last month that sluggish growth could keep inflation in check even if tariffs lift prices further.
Separately, Trump’s attempted firing of Cook is the first time a president has tried to remove a Fed governor in the central bank’s 112-year history, and has been seen by many legal scholars as an unprecedented attack on the Fed’s independence. His administration has accused Cook of mortgage fraud, but the accusation has come in the context of Trump’s extensive criticism of Powell and the Fed for not cutting rates much faster and steeper.
AP Business Writer Alex Veiga in Los Angeles contributed to this report.
Canada’s Carney heads to Mexico to discuss trade before review of their US trade deal
By Rob Gillies & Maria Verza The Associated Press
TORONTO—Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney heads to Mexico on Thursday in an effort to diversify trade as America’s neighbors brace for a review of the free trade deal with United States.
The United States-Mexico-Canada trade pact, or USMCA, is up for review in 2026. More than 75 percent of Canada’s exports and more than 80 percent of Mexico’s go to the US.
Canadian Sen. Peter Boehm said Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum will commiserate about US President Donald Trump.
“What are they hearing from the Americans, what we are hearing. It’s an opportunity to talk about how to handle the US administration going forward,” Boehm said.
Carney is looking to improve relations with Mexico during his two-day visit after some of Canada’s provincial premiers talked last year about cutting Mexico out of any new free trade deal with the US.
Trump lumped Canada in with Mexico on fentanyl smuggling and promised sweeping tariffs on both countries.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford said then that Trump comparing Canada to the Mex -
ico was “the most insulting thing I’ve ever heard from our friends and closest allies, the United States of America.” Boehm said the comments by the premiers, which he deemed out of their lane, upset the Mexicans.
“The Mexicans are particularly sensitive on these matters and there was concern about that, no doubt,” Boehm said. Boehm represented the Canadian government when Sheinbaum was sworn in as Mexico’s president last year and is pushing for more engagement with Mexico. He said relations recently improved, noting Mexico appreciated Carney inviting Sheinbaum to the G7 summit in Alberta in June. Carney also sent his foreign minister as well as his finance minister to meet with Sheinbaum in August.
“A lot of people don’t realize that we trade more with Mexico than we do with the entire European Union, all of Europe, including the UK,” Boehm said. “It’s a pretty big deal for us.”
Mexico is Canada’s third-largest trading partner after the US and China. Canada was Mexico’s fifth-largest trading partner in 2024.
But trade with the US remains paramount for both countries and preserving the free trade pact will be critical.
Verza reported from Mexico City.
Saudi Arabia and nuclear-armed Pakistan sign mutual defense pact after Israel’s Qatar strike
By Munir Ahmed & Jon Gambrell
The Associated Press
ISLAMABAD—Saudi Arabia and nuclear-armed Pakistan have signed a mutual defense pact that regards any attack on either nation as an attack on both in the wake of Israel’s strike on Qatar earlier this month.
The kingdom has long had close economic, religious and security ties to Pakistan, including reportedly providing funding for Islamabad’s nuclear weapons program as it developed.
Analysts—and Pakistani diplomats in at least one case—have suggested over the years that Saudi Arabia could be included under Islamabad’s nuclear umbrella, particularly as tensions have risen over Iran’s atomic program.
But the timing of the pact appeared to be a signal to Israel, long suspected to be the Middle East’s only nucleararmed state, which has conducted a sprawling military offensive since Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel stretching across Iran, Lebanon, the Palestinian territories, Qatar, Syria and Yemen.
Israel did not immediately acknowledge the pact, which was the first firm defense decision made by a Gulf Arab country since the Qatar attack last week. The United States, long the security guarantor for the Gulf states, also did not immediately acknowledge the agreement.
Saudi Arabia’s powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed the pact Wednesday with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
While not specifically discussing the bomb, the agreement states “any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both,” according to statements issued by both Pakistan’s Foreign Affairs Ministry and the state-run Saudi Press Agency.
“This agreement...aims to develop aspects of defense cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint deterrence against any aggression,” the statement said.
A long defense relationship
PAKISTAN and Saudi Arabia have a defense relationship stretching back decades, in part due to Islamabad’s willingness to defend the Islamic holy sites of Mecca and Medina in the kingdom. Pakistani troops first traveled to Saudi Arabia in the late 1960s over concerns about Egypt’s war in Yemen at the time.
Those ties increased after Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution and the kingdom’s fears of a confrontation with Tehran.
Pakistan developed its nuclear weapons program to counter India’s atomic bombs. The two neighbors have fought multiple wars against each other and again came close to open warfare after an attack on tourists in April in Indian-controlled Kashmir. India is believed to have an estimated 172 nuclear warheads, while Pakistan has 170, according to the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists.
On Thursday, India’s Foreign Ministry acknowledged the Saudi-
China’s defense minister renews Taiwan takeover threat at Beijing security forum
By Simina Mistreanu The Associated Press
TAIPEI, Taiwan—China’s defense minister renewed threats that his country would take over selfruled Taiwan as he opened a security forum in Beijing on Thursday.
The “restoration” of Taiwan to China “is an integral part of the post-war international order,” Dong Jun told an audience of international military officials attending the Beijing Xiangshan Forum, an annual event where China aims to project regional leadership and boost military cooperation.
Pakistan pact and said it “will study the implications of this development for our national security as well as for regional and global stability.” Saudi Arabia also maintains close ties with India.
An interest in Pakistan’s program RETIRED Pakistani Brig. Gen. Feroz Hassan Khan, in his book on his country’s nuclear weapons program called “Eating Grass: The Making of the Pakistani Bomb,” said Saudi Arabia provided “generous financial support” for the program’s effort.
In a 2007 US diplomatic cable published by WikiLeaks, American diplomats in Saudi Arabia noted that their Pakistani counterparts had brought up the idea of the kingdom pursuing a weapons program alongside Islamabad.
“According to these officials, they understand that (Saudi Arabia) does want to protect itself and the region, and since, in their opinion, some of the other regional players—specifically Egypt—are unable to develop such weapons systems due to financial constraints, it is logical for the Saudis to step in as the physical ‘protector’ just as they have been increasingly stepping in as peace mediators in various regional conflicts,” the cable read.
Both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia did not respond to questions from The Associated Press on Thursday on whether the pact extended to Islamabad’s nuclear weapons arsenal.
How Iran ties in SAUDI Arabia has sought to US assistance to advance a civilian nuclear power program, in part with what had been a proposed diplomatic recognition deal with Israel prior to the 2023 Hamas attack. That could allow Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium in the kingdom—something that worries nonproliferation experts as spinning centrifuges opens the door to a possible weapons program.
Gambrell reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Associated Press writer Vineeta Deepak in New Delhi contributed to this report.
Beijing considers Taiwan—a democracy of 23 million people that has been governed separately from China since 1949—to be a breakaway province, and has not ruled out the use
of force to bring it under its control. China puts military pressure on Taiwan by sending warships and aircraft near the island almost daily.
Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te and his ruling Democratic Progressive Party reject Beijing’s assertions and maintain that Taiwan is a sovereign country whose future should be decided by its people.
Dong said China would “never allow any separatist attempts for Taiwan independence to succeed” and that it is ready to thwart “any exter -
nal military interference.”
“The Chinese military stands ready to work with all parties to serve as a force for global peace, stability and
progress,” he said.
While not mentioning the United States by name, Dong chided “behaviors such as external military interference, seeking spheres of influence and coercing others into taking sides.” He called those a means to “plunge the international community into chaos and conflict.”
The security forum comes after Beijing earlier this month held a massive military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. China’s army, the world’s largest, showcased its advanced weaponry at the parade, including Chinese-made hypersonic missiles and tanks. Dong stressed the importance of upholding the “UN-centered international system” as a framework for global peace and stability.
“We must defend the post-war order,” he said. “We do not intend to overturn the existing order or to create a new one. Rather the goal is to reinforce the cornerstone and pillars of the system.”
Thai security forces use rubber bullets and tear gas in border melee with Cambodian protesters
By Sopheng Cheang & Grant Peck
The Associated Press
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia—Thai security forces clashed with protesters from Cambodia on Wednesday in a disputed border area, threatening a fragile truce reached in July after five days of armed combat.
Official statements from Cambodia said 28 people were injured over the course of several hours near what they called Prey Chan village in Banteay Meanchey province. Thai authorities referred to the same area as Ban Nong Ya Kaeo in Thailand’s Sa Kaeo province.
No deaths were reported. Thai security forces used non-lethal weapons while Cambodian protesters, who appeared to be civilians, threw rocks and other objects.
Thai Army spokesperson Maj. Gen.
Winthai Suvaree described the situation as a Cambodian mob encroaching on Thai territory, obstructing operations and destroying official property. He said Thai authorities regarded the incident as a provocation and an intentional violation of the ceasefire agreement.
In late July, the two countries engaged in five days of combat that killed dozens of people and displaced more than 260,000. The two countries agreed on a ceasefire only after mediation fostered by Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and pressure from US President Donald Trump, who threatened to withhold trade privileges unless they agreed on a truce.
Tensions remain high after the ceasefire, especially since Thai soldiers have been wounded by land mines while patrolling the no-man’s land between the two countries. Thailand charges that the mines are newly planted in violation of the ceasefire, an accusation vehemently
denied by Cambodia. Thai security forces “used tear gas against Cambodian civilians in an attempt to surround land that Cambodians have long lived on and cultivated,” said a Cambodian government statement issued Wednesday.
It said local Cambodians gathered to remove barbed wire that Thais were laying down, and that “Thai authorities fired live ammunition, rubber bullets, and smoke bombs at them, while also deploying high-frequency sound devices that can damage the eardrum and brain.” The statement further asserted that other “violent measures” were used, resulting in at least 28 people, including monks, fainting and sustaining serious and minor injuries.
A Thai army statement posted online said approximately 200 people came from the Cambodian side “to protest the Thai side’s actions during the deployment of barriers and concertina wire to
enhance security along the Thai-Cambodian border.”
It said Thai officials explained to the crowd what they were doing, but a melee broke out and they had to use tear gas and rubber bullets to restore order, with the tear gas temporarily causing both sides to step back.
When the Thai authorities resumed setting up their barrier, violence broke out again and security forces employed tear gas, rubber bullets, and LRADs -- longrange acoustic devices that emit painfully loud high-pitched sounds -- to quell the unrest, they said.
After 5 p.m., the Cambodians began to retreat, shouting at the Thai forces and causing injuries by throwing rocks and sticks and shooting slingshots, said the Thai army statement, adding that five Thai soldiers were injured.
Peck reported from Bangkok.
CHINESE Defense Minister Dong Jun walks down the stage after speaking at China’s annual security and defense dialogue, the Xiangshan Forum, in Beijing, China, Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025. AP PHOTO/NG HAN GUAN
‘UNIFIED CITY AT 6’
City of Sto. Tomas, Batangas: Lessons in community-based
By Vincent Peter Rivera
AT the foot of Mount Makiling lies Sto. Tomas, one of the oldest towns of the province of Batangas. When the Spanish colonizers arrived in the area, they discovered a paradise haven. Today, it is a booming modern city that has preserved both its natural beauty and heritage. This transformation is a testament to the strong cooperation between its leaders and people through the years.
The birthplace of General Miguel Malvar, a national hero who played a pivotal role during the Philippine Revolution and PhilippineAmerican War, Sto. Tomas’ journey into cityhood is likewise a dauntless story. Its steady growth in population, economy, and services, along with concerted legislative and community efforts, merited its city charter.
On October 5, 2018, Republic Act No. 11086, which converted Sto. Tomas into a component city, was signed. Residents officially ratified this change in a plebiscite on September 7, 2019, making Sto. Tomas the fourth city in the province, after Lipa, Tanauan, and Batangas City.
Sto. Tomas City Mayor Arth Jhun “AJAM” A. Marasigan views this transformation as a reverent nod to its rich past and a positive look into the future, continuing what has been started.
“ The commemoration fulfills three things,” he explained. “It honors the sacrifices and vision of earlier generations; it reminds us of
the responsibilities that cityhood brings (better governance, higher standards of service); and it motivates citizens and leaders to renew their commitment to progress. Anniversaries are checkpoints: moments to assess, celebrate, and set new targets.”
Where it all began
Sto. Tomas was officially founded in 1666 with Captain Manuel Melo as its first head. Its history is deeply tied to both its natural landscape and its Spanish colonial past. The Dominican missionaries named the town Sto. Tomas de Aquinas after the most prominent figure of their religious order.
W hen the Spanish friars first arrived, they established the town’s center by building a church near the San Juan River. As the community grew, barrios, were named after their unique features—for instance, a place was called “Kabaong” because of its coffin-shaped stones and “Camballao” for its twin rivers.
However, a Spanish decree eventually changed these colorful
local names to those of Christian saints, a practice that continued as the town expanded, giving many of its barangays their current names. This rich history laid the groundwork for the modern city of today.
‘Unified City at 6’
Sto. Tomas celebrated its 6th Cityhood Anniversary on September 7 with vibrant and inclusive activities. The theme, “Unified City at 6,” highlighted the collective effort that drives the city’s progress.
Mayor Marasigan explained, “Unity has been essential to Sto. Tomas’ transformation—unity among barangays, among public servants, and between government, business, and civil society.”
He emphasized that this theme perfectly encapsulates how a collective effort enables the city to deliver faster, fairer, and more inclusive services.
To embody the milestone’s theme, a series of competitions and events was conducted to showcase the unique talents and unity of the Tomasinos.
The dynamic Siglahan Street Dance and Festival Dance Competition, held on August 31, featured 30 barangays divided into six clusters. The competition aimed to promote local tourism, showcase the creative talent of the people, and strengthen patriotism through arts and culture.
Each cluster, with 70 to 80 members, performed a three-minute Street Dance using the city’s official tourism song and a sevenminute Festival Dance based on the theme, “Barangay, Kultura, Turismo.”
The competition crowned several winners. Cluster 1 emerged as the big winner, taking home the Festival Dance Champion and Best Costume awards. Cluster 2 also had an impressive showing, securing the Best in Street Dance
Unity and progress are always possible when we work hand in hand. Our cityhood anniversary is more than just a celebration. It is a reminder of our shared journey and the brighter future we are building together.”
and 1st Runner-up for Festival Dance. Cluster 3 was recognized as the 2nd Runner-up for Festival Dance, while Daniella G. Santos of Cluster 5 was crowned “Reyna ng Siglahan.”
To show appreciation for their efforts, Mayor Marasigan provided an additional P10,000 to all clusters in recognition of their hard work.
Meanwhile, the much awaited pageant, “Ginoo at Mutya ng Sto. Tomas” on September 2 and 4, respectively, presented the young generation of Tomasinos who possess not only physical beauty but also the passion to share their talents to help uplift their communities. Shuu Ichi Rou Jomas Hoshi from San Isidro Sur won the Ginoong Tomasino 2025 title, while Venus Ashley Gonzales from Barangay San Roque was named Mutya ng Sto. Tomas 2025.
The celebration culminated on September 6 with “AJAM Natin ‘To: Amazing Jam and Music.”
—STO. TOMAS MAYOR ARTH JHUN A. MARASIGAN
Mayor Arth Jhun A. Marasigan and Vice Mayor Catherine Jaurigue-Perez take center stage along with other local artists in a night of music and celebration at AJAM (Amazing Jam and Music) Night.
Mayor Marasigan with Filipino actor JC Santos and motovloggers lead the AJAM Breakfast Charity Ride 2.0 to support Tomasinos with Cerebral Palsy.
Mutya ng Sto. Tomas 2025 Venus Ashley Gonzales, with the court of runners-up, during the Mutya ng Sto. Tomas 2025.
Mayor Marasigan and Vice Mayor Jaurigue-Perez, together with other government officials, recognize PESO partners and top taxpayers.
Tomasinos from 30 barangays compete at
community-based growth & sustainability
Carrying the “Unified City at 6” theme, the high-spirited concert brought together local artists and featured a special performance by OPM artist Maki. S eptember 7, the Cityhood Anniversary of Sto. Tomas, was declared as a special non-working holiday.
Championing Tomasinos
As a highlight of the celebration, Sto. Tomas held a special Taxpayers’ Day in commemoration of the anniversary theme. The event honored top taxpayers in both the business and individual categories, including those who were early birds in paying their taxes. Additionally, the Top 5 PESO Partners were recognized for creating thousands of job opportunities for the people of the city. To put the spotlight on the com-
munity’s strength as a city, the special event gathered diverse sectors such as taxpayers, TODA groups, cooperatives, farmers, MSMEs, including sari-sari store owners.
Mayor Marasigan stated, “This broader participation reflects our city’s deep appreciation for every sector’s contribution to progress, making the 6th anniversary not just a commemoration, but a true festival of unity and pride for all Tomasinos.”
He added that under the leadership of Mayor Marasigan, Vice Mayor Catherine Jaurigue-Perez, and the Sangguniang Panlungsod, the City Government of Sto. Tomas values those who serve as pillars of progress through their significant contributions to the local economy.
Mayor Marasigan pointed out that the cityhood celebration also gen-
ment, and fast-tracked public works projects.
These all falls under the guiding principle of “Aksyon Bilis na Serbisyo ng May Ngiting Tomasino,” which the Mayor explained is more than just a motto. It is a way of governing. The approach, he stated, has led to tangible improvements in citizens’ daily lives—from faster processing of business permits to the expansion of mobile health services in far-flung barangays.
He emphasized that the true core of this governance is not just speed but compassion. “We deliver these services with ‘ngiting Tomasino’ because public service must not only be efficient, but also compassionate and people-centered.
With this year’s theme, my message to every Tomasino is clear: unity and progress are always possible when we work hand in hand. Our cityhood anniversary is more than just a celebration. It is a reminder of our shared journey and the brighter future we are building together.”
He assured the people that the city government would continue to deliver its promise so that every family and every generation could feel the true benefits of their growth and success.
Future-ready city
Looking ahead, Mayor Marasigan emphasized his commitment to sustaining and strengthening the foundations his administration has built. He outlined plans to enhance environmental protection, expand tourism programs, and ensure that governance remains quick, vibrant, and dynamic for every Tomasino.
The city is currently witnessing several major developments that directly uplift the community. Foremost among these is the ongoing construction of the Ospital ng Lungsod ng Sto. Tomas—a new hospital that will provide quality, accessible healthcare.
The city has also begun building a new City Government Center to centralize frontline services, ensuring faster and more efficient transactions. Furthermore, the Affordable Residence for Tomasino Homeville project has been launched to provide more families with access to safe and decent housing. These projects reflect a commitment to delivering tangible progress that every Tomasino can feel.
The administration is also focused on the continued delivery of its 12-Point Administrative Agenda, which is guided by the principle of “Aksyon Bilis na Serbisyo na may Ngiting Tomasino.”
This comprehensive agenda covers key areas of development. In Education, the city is strengthening school facilities, providing teaching aids, and expanding scholarship programs. For Health, the focus is on upgrading primary health centers, expanding mobile clinics, and improving maternal and child health services.
erated short-term economic stimulus, with increased retail and food sales, hotel and transport usage, and new business leads for local vendors.
He emphasized the long-term benefits of the anniversary: “Equally important are the long-term benefits, branding Sto. Tomas is a businessfriendly, culturally vibrant city that attracts future investment and visitors.”
Government for the people
Mayor Marasigan acknowledged the common challenges faced by a rapidly growing city, such as “traffic and transport pressure from increased commerce, higher demand for health and education services, infrastructure backlogs, and ensuring public safety.”
To tackle these issues, his administration has prioritized efficient permitting, expanded social services, strengthened law enforce-
Finally, for Business, the administration is streamlining permitting, providing training for SMEs, and offering special incentives to enterprises that create local jobs.
A fter a successful anniversary fete, Mayor Marasigan expressed his deep gratitude to everyone who made the celebration possible. He highlighted that the true heroes of the anniversary were the people themselves.
“Ang inyong malasakit, sipag, at dedikasyon ang naging susi sa tagumpay ng bawat programa at aktibidad, patunay ng ating pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan… Nananawagan ako na ipagpatuloy natin ang pagiging tapat at tunay na lingkod-bayani para sa mas masiglang kinabukasan,” he concluded.
[“Your compassion, hard work, and dedication were the key to the success of every program and activity, proving our unity and cooperation… I call on all of us to continue being loyal and true public heroes for a more vibrant future,” he concluded.]
Ginoong Tomasino 2025 Shuu Ichi Rou Jomas Hoshi, with other title holders, during the Ginoong Sto. Tomas 2025.
at this year’s Siglahan Street Dance and Festival Dance Competition with the theme, “Barangay, Kultura, Turismo” using the city’s official tourism song.
On Sept 7, city government employees participated in a Boodle Fight at the City Evacuation Center to reinforce friendship, equality, and unity with one another.
From Left to Right: Mayor Marasigan, motovlogger Lakwatserrah, Filipino actor JC Santos, motovlogger Karlo Salonga, and social media influencer Rendon Labador during the AJAM Breakfast Charity Ride 2.0
PHOTOS BY: STO. TOMAS, BATANGAS CITY INFORMATION OFFICE (CIO)
Endless displacement: Gaza family faces 11th relocation amid escalating conflict
By Abdel Kareem Hana & Lee Keath
The Associated Press
KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip—
Exhaustion, despair and anger are grinding away at Ne’man Abu Jarad. Once again, for the 11th time, he and his family have been forced to uproot and move across the Gaza Strip.
“It’s a renewal of the torture. We’re not being displaced, we’re dying,” Ne’man said last week as the family packed up their possessions and tents in Gaza City to escape escalating Israel bombardment ahead of a planned invasion of the city.
The next day, they unpacked in southern Gaza on barren former agricultural land outside the city of Khan Younis, unsure where they would now find food and water.
This has been the Abu Jarads’ life for nearly two years, since fleeing their home in the far north of Gaza days after Israel launched its onslaught in response to Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack. Like countless Palestinian families, they have fled the length of Gaza and back, forced to move every few months as Israel attacks each new shelter. The Associated Press has chronicled much of their journey.
During the ceasefire that began in January, they had a bittersweet return to their home, which was damaged but still standing. But within two months, Israel broke the ceasefire, and the Abu Jarads had to wrench themselves away.
With each move, Ne’man and his wife Majida try to preserve some stability for their six daughters and their 2-year-old granddaughter amid the misery of tent life. The youngest is 8-year-old Lana; the eldest is Balsam, in her 20s and married.
But the sense of futility is weighing heavier. No end is in sight and Ne’man fears it will get worse.
“What’s coming is dark,” he said.
“We might be expelled (from Gaza). We might die…You feel like death is surrounding you. We just scurry from place to place, away from death.”
Uprooted yet again
“IT gets worse for the girls. It’s hard on them to change every time they get used to something,” Majida said. Since May, the family’s refuge had been a tent in Gaza City. It wasn’t easy, but at least they got to know the neighborhood and their neighbors and figured out where to get water and medical care. Their daughters could see friends from before the war, who were also displaced nearby. Another family in a neighboring building let their daughter Sarah come use their internet to study for online high school classes. The girls downloaded books onto their phones, to study or just to have something to do. Food was more difficult, as Israeli restrictions on aid pushed Gaza City into famine. Ne’man joined hundreds of others waiting for aid trucks to enter from Israel. It was dangerous— Israeli troops regularly opened fire toward the crowds, and Ne’man saw people getting killed and wounded, Majida said. But he sometimes came back with food.
A few weeks ago, they found a school for Lana. “She was very excited. Her life would have some regularity,” Majida said.
But Israel had ordered the population to evacuate, preparing a new assault to seize Gaza City that it said aims to dismantle Hamas, free hos -
tages and move towards taking security control of the strip. Bombardment came closer. One strike leveled an apartment tower a block away, sending shrapnel that pierced the Abu Jarads’ tent. Another destroyed a house across the street, killing members of the family sitting outside, Ne’man said.
Lana had only attended three days of classes. But it was time to go. Last Thursday, they joined a growing exodus of Palestinians fleeing south.
Stress tears at the family DRESSED in pink pajamas and leaning against her father in their new camp the next day, Lana described her best friends Sila and Joudi bidding her farewell as they left Gaza City. They hugged her and told her they loved her—and they were crying, Lana said.
“But I did not cry,” she added firmly. “I will not cry at all. I won’t be sad.”
Majida and Ne’man worry about Lana. Their other daughters had a grounding of normal lives. But Lana was only six when Israel’s campaign overturned their lives.
“She is gaining awareness in the middle of war, bombardment and life in the tents,” Majida said.
Lana can be stubborn and impatient.
“There’s things my sisters put up with that I don’t put up with,” Lana said. She can’t tolerate the discomforts of tent life. Having to use the makeshift bathroom upsets her. “Sitting and reading, I can’t get comfortable,” she said.
Over the months, everything pushes the family to a boil — boredom, lack of privacy, the daily toil of lugging water, gathering firewood, searching for food, cleaning the tent. Behind that lie darker thoughts: the feeling this could be their fate forever, the fear a strike could kill them.
Crammed together in the tent, the girls squabble and fight sometimes.
“We were a model family, understanding and loving,” Ne’man said. “I never imagined we’d reach this point. I get afraid the family will fragment from all the pressure.”
‘In a desert’ THE latest move drained what little money they had—hundreds of dollars to buy a new tent and rent a truck to carry their belongings.
It also stripped them of everything that made life bearable. The new camp lies in a stretch of barren dirt and fields. There’s no market nearby, no schools. They have to walk 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) to get an internet connection. They are surrounded by strangers.
“We’re living in a desert,” Ne’man said.
Friday morning, their daughters walked more than a kilometer (half mile) to catch up with a passing water truck. It ran out before they could fill all their plastic jugs.
The family spent the day clearing their spot of land, assembling their two tents—one for the family, one for Ne’man’s sister. As they worked, an Israeli strike rang out in the distance. They watched the black smoke rise over Khan Younis. Exhausted by the end of the day, Ne’man still had to dig a latrine and set up the bathroom.
The area had been a closed Israeli military zone until a few weeks ago, when Israel announced displaced could move there. An Israeli military position is not far away. They can see tanks moving in and out.
“It’s not safe here,” Ne’man said. Majida tried to focus on practicalities.
If someday water trucks start coming closer, she said, the girls won’t have to walk as far and will grumble less. Once they set aside a corner for a kitchen, where they can cook and do washing, that will start creating a daily routine.
“The more details of daily life that are in place, the more comfortable we will feel,” Majida said.
“Things will get better,” she said again and again, without a trace of optimism in her voice.
They may have to move again FOUR days later, on Tuesday, a voice message from Ne’man came to the AP.
“We’re sitting here unable to eat,” he said. They have almost no money to buy food. No aid is reaching them. Worse, a man claiming to be the owner of the land had come, backed by armed men, and demanded they pay rent or leave. Ne’man can’t afford rent. He can’t afford the costs of moving, but may have no choice.
Keath reported from Cairo.
Ukraine secures $3.5 billion fund for US weapons amid ongoing conflict with Russia, Zelenskyy says
By Samya Kullab The Associated Press
YIV, Ukraine—Ukraine ex -
Kpects there will be around $3.5 billion by next month in a fund to buy weapons from the United States and help sustain its more than threeyear fight against Russia’s all-out invasion, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Wednesday.
The financial arrangement known as the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List, or PURL, pools contributions from NATO members, except the United States, to purchase American weapons, munitions and equipment.
“We received more than $2 billion from our partners specifically for the PURL program,” Zelenskyy said at a joint news conference in Kyiv with visiting European Parliament President Roberta Metsola. “We will receive additional money in October. I think we will have somewhere around $3.5 to $3.6 billion.”
Zelenskyy declined to provide details of what weapons the first shipments would include, but said that they would definitely contain missiles for Patriot air defense missile systems and munitions for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS. An end to the war appears no closer, despite months of US-led peace efforts.
The Patriot systems are vital to defend against Russian missile attacks. The HIMARS systems have significantly bolstered the Ukrai -
nian military’s precision-strike capability.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reaffirmed Russia’s readiness for peace talks, telling reporters on Wednesday that “we remain open for negotiations and prefer to settle the Ukrainian crisis by political and diplomatic means.”
However, Moscow has raised objections about key proposals and negotiations haven’t moved forward.
The latest Russian overnight aerial attacks caused disruption to Ukrainian rail and power services, officials said Wednesday. In addition, a Russian glide bomb struck a town in the southern Kherson region of Ukraine, wounding three women and a 3-yearold girl, regional head Oleksandr Prokudin said.
Meanwhile, a US-Ukraine fund devised to spur investments in the Ukrainian mineral sector is set to launch with $150 million of seed capital, senior Ukrainian officials said Wednesday.
The US International Development Finance Corporation agency will commit $75 million to the fund, with Ukraine matching that contribution, Ukrainian Economy Minister Oleksii Sobolev said.
“This is enough to launch the first significant investments,” Sobolev said, describing the fund as a “beacon” that could draw additional support from other international institutions.
Hanna Arhirova and Illia Novikov contributed to this report.
Europeans say Iran has yet to take necessary actions to stop the ‘snapback’ of UN sanctions
By Jon Gambrell
The Associated Press
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates—European officials told Iran on Wednesday it had yet to take the actions needed to stop the return of United Nations sanctions over its nuclear program, warning time was running out.
The comments from the German Foreign Ministry and the European Union came after a call Iran had Wednesday with representatives of France, Germany and the United Kingdom, as well as the EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas.
“The window for finding a diplomatic solution on Iran’s nuclear issue is closing really fast,” Kallas warned in a statement. “Iran must show credible steps towards addressing the demands of France, (the) U.K. and Germany, and this means demonstrating full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency and allowing inspections of all nuclear sites without delay.”
The German Foreign Ministry separately wrote on the social platform X that “Iran has yet to take the reasonable and precise actions necessary to” stop the reimposition of UN sanctions.
In a statement issued hours later, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi again asserted that the reimposition of UN sanctions was “lacking any legal or logical justification.” He also pointed to the fact that Iran and the IAEA earlier reached a deal mediated by Egypt to grant the U.N. watchdog access to all Iranian nuclear sites and for Tehran to report on the whereabouts of all its nuclear material.
However, it remains unclear when Iran will make that report. And Araghchi in his statement offered no other routes to satisfying the Europeans’ concerns.
“It is now up to the other parties to seize this opportunity to keep the diplomatic path open and avert an avoidable crisis, showing seriousness and belief in diplomacy,” he said.
A 12-day war launched by Israel against Iran in June saw both the Israelis and the Americans bomb Iranian nuclear sites, throwing into question the status of Tehran’s stockpile of uranium enriched nearly to weapons-grade levels.
Associated Press writers Amir Vahdat in Tehran, Iran, Stephanie Liechtenstein in Vienna and Lorne Cook in Brussels contributed to this report.
THE Abu Jarad family stands in front of their tent in Khan Younis, Gaza Strip, following their displacement from Gaza City, Sept. 11, 2025. AP PHOTO/ABDEL KAREEM HANA
World
A12 Friday, September 19, 2025
Pope Leo talks Trump, sex abuse scandals, LGBTQ+ welcome, and China in interview
ROME—Pope Leo XIV said in his first interview as history’s first American pope that he has no intention of getting involved in US politics but will raise his voice on issues of concern to the Catholic Church, including on immigration.
Leo spoke on a range of topics— from the Trump administration to the clergy sexual abuse crisis, welcoming LGBTQ+ Catholics and Vatican-China relations—in the interview, published Thursday. It was conducted by Vatican correspondent Elise Ann Allen of the news site Crux for a biography of Leo that was published Thursday in Peru, where Leo was bishop for many years.
Here are some highlights:
Welcoming the LGBTQ+ community
LEO embraced Pope Francis’ message for LGBTQ+ Catholics that “todos, todos, todos” are welcome in the Catholic Church but said that he found “it highly unlikely” the church’s core doctrine about sexuality would change anytime soon.
The Catholic Church teaches that homosexual people must be treated with dignity and respect, but that homosexual activity is
“intrinsically disordered.” It opposes gay marriage, saying marriage is a union between a man and woman.
“Everyone’s invited in, but I don’t invite a person in because they are or are not of any specific identity. I invite a person in because they are a son or daughter of God,” he said.
“I think we have to change attitudes before we even think about changing what the church says about any given question,” he said.
Ties with China
LEO said he didn’t foresee any short-term changes in the Vatican’s controversial 2018 agreement with Beijing over bishop nominations.
The Vatican under Pope Francis had inked the accord hoping it would help unite China’s estimated 12 million Catholics, long divided between those belonging to an official, state-sanctioned church and an underground church loyal to Rome.
“I in no way pretend to be wiser or more experienced than all those who have come before me,”
Leo said, adding he was studying the issue and speaking with Chinese people “on both sides” about it.
The Vatican has defended the 2018 accord against criticism that Francis sold out the underground faithful, who endured decades of persecution by the Beijing authorities. The Vatican has said the deal was necessary to prevent an even worse schism in the Chinese church after China named bishops without the pope’s consent.
Sex abuse scandals
LEO said the sex abuse crisis is “a real crisis” that has not yet been solved, and that the church still hasn’t found a way to help victims heal. But he also said the rights of priests must be respected.
“Statistics show that well over 90% of people who come forward and make accusations, they are authentically victims. They are telling the truth. They are not making this up,” he said. “But there have also been proven cases of some kind of false accusation. There have been priests whose lives have been destroyed because of that.”
The pope also said the scandal “cannot become the center focus of the church.”
Leo was instrumental in helping victims of an abusive Peruvian group find justice but he has been accused by a US victim advocacy
group of not doing enough to help other Peruvian victims.
Trump and US politics
LEO said he recognized the influence of the United States on world affairs and mentioned migration as one of the issue important to the Catholic Church.
He recalled a letter Francis sent to US bishops earlier this year rebuking the Trump administration’s plans for mass deportations of migrants. The letter took direct aim at Vice President JD Vance’s defense of the deportation program on theological grounds.
Leo praised Francis’ initiative and said US bishops showed “courage” in confronting the administration, expressing hopes they would continue to take the lead
After the royal pomp, Trump’s state visit focuses on investment and thorny issues
By Michelle L. Price & Jill Lawless The Associated Press
LONDON—After the pomp, it’s time for the politics.
President Donald Trump will meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday, the final day of the US leader’s state visit to Britain, with tech investment, steel tariffs and potentially tricky topics on the agenda.
The president and first lady Melania Trump were feted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla on Wednesday at Windsor Castle with all the pageantry the monarchy can muster: gold-trimmed carriages, scarlet-clad soldiers, artillery salutes and a glittering banquet in a grand ceremonial hall.
British officials have festooned the trip with the kind of superlatives Trump revels in: It’s an “unprecedented” second state visit for the US leader, featuring the biggest military honor guard ever assembled for such an occasion.
On Thursday it is Starmer’s turn to welcome the president to Chequers, a 16th-century manor house northwest of London that serves as a rural retreat for British leaders.
Trump’s British hosts want to celebrate the strength of the US-UK relationship, almost 250 years after its rocky start in 1776. Trump will be welcomed by ceremonial honor guard complete with bagpipers—a nod to the president’s Scottish heritage— and shown items from the archive of wartime leader Winston Churchill, who coined the term “special relationship” for the bond between the United States and Britain. There’s also a lunch of Dover sole
followed by key lime pie, and a display by the Red Devils army parachute team.
Trans-Atlantic tech partnership
TO coincide with the visit, Britain said US companies had pledged 150 billion pounds ($204 billion) in investment in the United Kingdom, including 90 billion pounds ($122 billion) from investment firm Blackstone in the next decade. Investment will also flow the other way, including almost $30 billion by pharmaceutical firm GSK in the US.
The two leaders will sign a “tech prosperity deal” that UK officials say will bring thousands of jobs and billions in investment in artificial intelligence, quantum computing and nuclear energy.
It includes a UK arm of Stargate, a Trump-backed AI infrastructure project led by OpenAI, and a host of AI data centers around the UK American firms are announcing 31 billion pounds ($42 billion) investment in the UK’s AI sector, including $30 billion from Microsoft for protects including Britain’s largest supercomputer. British officials say they have not agreed to scrap a digital services tax or water down internet regulation to get the deal, some details of which have yet to be announced.
The British government is learning that when it comes to deals with the US administration, the devil is in the detail.
In May, Starmer and Trump struck a trade agreement that reduced US. tariffs on Britain’s key auto and aerospace industries.
But talks on slashing duties on steel and aluminum to zero from their current level of 25% have stalled, despite a promise in May that the issue would be settled within weeks.
The British Chambers of Commerce said failure to cut the tariffs would “greeted with dismay” by the British steel industry.
Potentially awkward
conversations
STARMER wants a successful state visit to balance weeks of bad news that saw him lose not just an ambassador but Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner—who quit over a tax error on a home purchase—and a senior aide. Fourteen months after winning a landslide election victory, Starmer’s government is struggling to kickstart Britain’s sluggish economy and his Labour Party is lagging in the polls.
Leslie Vinjamuri, president of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, said the trip was likely to be “a difficult visit for the prime minister, much more so than for the US president.”
For Trump, “this plays well at home, it plays well abroad. It’s almost entirely to President Trump’s advantage to turn up to Britain and be celebrated by the British establishment,” she said.
Starmer will be bracing for awkward questions about Jeffrey Epstein when he and Trump hold a news conference at Chequers. Days before the state visit, Starmer fired Britain’s ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson, over the envoy’s past friendship with the convicted sex offender.
Questions about Epstein overshadowed Trump’s last visit to the UK in July, when he sat with Starmer at his golf club in Scotland. As they took questions from journalists, Trump was repeatedly peppered with queries about Epstein as his government faced pressure from back home to release government records into the criminal case of the now-disgraced financier, who
authorities say killed himself in 2019.
Difficult discussions on Ukraine, Middle East
THERE are also potentially difficult conversations to be had over Ukraine and the Middle East.
Starmer has played a major part in European efforts to shore up US support for Ukraine. Trump has expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin but has not made good on threats to impose new sanctions on Russia for shunning peace negotiations. As he left Washington for the UK on Tuesday, Trump appeared to put the onus on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, saying, “He’s going to have to make a deal.”
Last week’s Russian drone incursion into NATO member Poland drew strong condemnation from European NATO allies, and pledges of more planes and troops for the bloc’s eastern flank. Trump played down the incident’s severity, musing that it “ could have been a mistake. “
The king gave Trump a gentle nudge in his state banquet speech on the strength of the trans-Atlantic relationship. Charles noted that “as tyranny once again threatens Europe, we and our allies stand together in support of Ukraine, to deter aggression and secure peace.”
Starmer also departs from Trump on Israel’s war in Gaza, and has said the UK will formally recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations later this month.
Trump has threatened to penalize Canada during trade negotiations for making a similar move.
AP Technology Writer Matt O’Brien contributed to this story.
on such issues.
“One of the last conversations I had with the vice president of the United States—I have not had direct conversations with or have not met the president—I talked about human dignity and how important that is for all people, wherever you’re born, and hopefully to find ways to respect human beings and the way we treat them in the policies and choices we make,” Leo said.
Leo made clear he is not a Trump supporter, adding that he and his brother Luis Prevost, a self-described “MAGA-type,” who has met the US president are in “different places.”
“The United States is a power player on the world level, we have to recognize that, and sometimes decisions are made more based on
Oceana. . . Continued from A13
of protecting the coastal communities, mangroves are cut down in Bulacan, Bataan, and Cavite for reclamation projects and infrastructure projects that hinder the flow of water,” he said.
Oceana, an international marine protection organization, said the government’s recent move highlights a catastrophic failure in its traditional approach to flood control infrastructure.
The group said the reallocation of these massive funds away from a corruption-plagued program presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest in a natural solution that is inherently less vulnerable to plunder and abuse, while delivering unparalleled multi-dimensional and multi-generational benefits.
“The government’s failed and corrupt flood control program underscores not only how rotten our existing flood control programs are, but it also shows how terribly unprepared we are to meet the escalating impacts of climate change.
To help us adapt to anticipated future calamities, we must do all we can to protect, restore, and enrich our mangrove areas. The National Coastal Greenbelt bill aims to do just that and more,” Von Hernandez, Oceana Vice President, said.
Scientific studies and post-typhoon impact assessments have consistently proven that healthy mangrove belts are exceptionally effective at reducing storm surges, stabilizing coastlines, protecting
economics than on human dignity and human support, but (we have to) continue to challenge and to raise some questions and to see the best way to do that,” Leo said.
Women’s voice
LEO vowed to continue appointing women to leadership positions in the church, but tamped down any hopes of ordaining women as deacons or as priests. He pointed to an ongoing study by the Vatican’s doctrine office on the issue.
“I at the moment don’t have an intention of changing the teaching of the church on the topic,” he said. “I am certainly willing to continue to listen to people.”
Vatican finances LEO inherited a longstanding financial crunch at the Vatican, which has been running a 50 million to 60 million euro ($57 million to $68 million) structural deficit, a 1 billion euro ($1.14 billion) pension fund shortfall and declining donations.
The crisis hit hardest during the pandemic when the Holy See’s main source of revenue—the Vatican Museums—closed down. But things are improving and “it is not the crisis that people have been led to believe,” Leo said. “I’m not saying we can relax,” he said. “I don’t think the crisis is over, I think we have to continue to work on this, but I’m not losing sleep over it, and I think that it’s important that we communicate a different message.”
seawalls, homes, and agricultural lands from destructive erosion and damage, while also serving as vital nurseries for fish and marine life.
“ Imbes na pasiglahin ang mga bakawang tirahan ng isda, pinili ng opisyal ng pamahalaan at mga kasabwat nilang contractor na sementuhin ang mga latian, baybayin at maging mga daluyan ng ilog,” said Rosales, who lives near Manila Bay. Hernandez cited the mangroves as a proven, powerful, and incorruptible contractor that works day and night to protect our coastlines and rejuvenate our fisheries. “Our urgent task now is not to continue building broken and failing systems, but to protect and restore what has always worked best. We must ensure these natural defenses are given the priority and protection they deserve,” he added. Mangroves are also powerhouse carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide at a rate much higher than terrestrial forests, making them crucial in the fight against climate change.
The National Coastal Greenbelt Bill aims to create a nationally coordinated program to map, protect, restore, and manage these vital ecosystems, empowering local communities in their stewardship and creating green jobs in the process. Hernandez concluded, “We are at a crossroads. We can choose to repeat the mistakes of the past, or we can choose to invest in the resilient, natural infrastructure that providence has already given us. We call on our leaders to make the right choice: enact the National Coastal Greenbelt law forthwith.” Jonathan L. Mayuga
Among his landmark pieces of legislation is Republic Act No. 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which he principally authored and sponsored.
The senator also took the occasion to highlight his accomplishments as a legislator in the 19th Congress. These include authoring 24 laws, principally sponsoring 95 laws—93 of which established or upgraded public hospitals—and co-authoring and co-sponsoring 191 other laws.
First established in 2018, Malasakit Centers serve as one-stop shops that streamline medical assistance programs from various government agencies, ensuring that Filipinos can access aid to ease the financial burden of healthcare costs. To date, 167 Malasakit Centers are operational nationwide. According to the
Department of Health, the program has already benefited more than 17 million Filipinos. In Calabarzon alone, 12 Malasakit Centers are actively assisting patients with their medical expenses. These include: Southern Tagalog Regional Hospital in Bacoor, Cavite, and General Emilio Aguinaldo Memorial
Hospital in
and Batangas Provincial Hospital in Lemery, Batangas; Margarito A. Duavit
Hospital in Binangonan and Antipolo City Hospital System Annex IV in Rizal; Quezon
and
Center in Lucena
Eleazar
Hospital in Tagkawayan in Quezon.
“Patuloykamingmagseserbisyosainyo
POPE Leo XIV arrives in St. Peter’s Square for the weekly general audience at the Vatican, Wednesday, September 17, 2025. AP/GREGORIO BORGIA
PHL’s
chicken imports to rise 2% in 2026 amid strong demand, easing trade policies
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
THE Philippines’ chicken meat imports will inch up by 2 percent to 560,000 metric tons (MT) in 2026 on the back of strong demand and easing trade policies, an international report said.
The United States Department of Agriculture-Foreign Agricultural Service in Manila (USDA-FAS Manila) expects shipments of the protein source to record a slight uptick from its 2025 estimate of 550,000 MT.
“The projected growth is driven by rising population demand and the competitive pricing of imported chicken meat,” its latest report read.
“Additionally, the lifting of temporary trade restrictions related to HPAI is expected to facilitate greater volumes of chicken meat entering Philippine commerce.”
The USDA-FAS Manila noted that the Department of Agriculture (DA) has recently lifted trade restrictions on poultry goods from several countries previously affected by bird flu. The countries now allowed to resume poultry exports to the Philippines include Australia, Japan, Brazil, the Netherlands, and France. Six US states were also included, particularly Indiana, Maryland, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, it added
“This development is further supported by an increase in the number of accredited foreign suppliers of chicken meat to the Philippines,” the report read.
The USDA-FAS Manila said the DA recently granted systems accreditation to Argentina, Poland, and Hungary.
Furthermore, selected meat establishments from Russia (17 establishments) and Portugal (6 establishments) were also authorized to ship poultry meat to the Philippines.
“These new accreditations are expected to diversify the country’s poultry meat supply.”
The Philippines currently receives meat shipments from 21 accredited countries, based on government data.
Meanwhile, the USDA-FAS Manila expects chicken meat output to grow by 7 percent to 1.81 MMT ready-to-cook (RTC) next year, from its 2025 estimate of 1.69 MMT.
“The forecast growth is supported by the commercial rollout of a vaccine against HPAI, combined with enhanced biosecurity measures implemented by poultry farms,” the agency said.
“Additionally, the tight local pork supply due to the ongoing impact of ASF [African swine fever] continues to encourage chicken production.”
The DA earlier announced that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the commercial use of the country’s first vaccine against bird flu.
The agency said the FDA granted a Certificate of Product Registration (CPR) to Boehringer Ingelheim for its vaccine against avian influenza (AI) dubbed Volvac B.E.S.T. AI plus ND.
The AI vaccine provides immunity against bird flu subtype H5N1, considered the most aggressive subtype of the bird flu virus, as it causes high mortality rates in chickens.
Pinoy’s ‘raket’ culture expected to surge high globally—Singapore biz platform
By Manuel T. Cayon @awimailbox
DAVAO CITY—A Singaporeregistered artificial intelligence (AI) market platform launched its Philippine platform to help the young generation navigate and monetize their freelance ventures, or commonly termed “raket.”
The company Serbiz, registered in Singapore, announced it has already launched the Philippine AI-native app “designed to help anyone start and grow a side hustle” and disclosed its plan to conduct the upcoming fundraising initiative to help any startup businesses.
“Side hustling is already part of Filipino life, widely known as Raket Culture. Many young Filipinos embrace ‘raket’ as a way to earn extra income, whether through content creation, online selling, or part-time services,” said Iyana Argañoza, co-founder and chief executive officer of Serbiz.
Today, she said, 65 percent of Serbiz users identify their first hustle as their primary source of additional income. The top three categories on Serbiz today are TikTok edits, Content Creation Assistance, and Event Assistance, she said.
On average, hustlers on the platform earn between P800–P5,000 per week.
She mentioned as example, one of Serbiz’s earliest users, Marc, a 20-yearold college student in Quezon City, who started offering photography gigs on Serbiz now earns a minimum of around P5,000 per gig. “He has since received multiple offers for permanent positions, but continues freelancing through Serbiz, valuing the flexibility and creative freedom it gives him. For Marc, Serbiz isn’t just a way to make money; it’s a platform that allows him to build a career on his own terms while still pursuing his studie.”
“Most gig platforms assume users already know what to offer, and consumers know exactly what to search for. That leaves out a huge share of Gen Z and first-time earners, Serbiz changes that by using AI to interpret intent on both sides, making hustling easier, faster, and more accessible.”
What sets Serbiz apart from other AI-based marketplace application, Argañoza said, “is its proprietary AI agents, Earnie and Scout, built
DPWH moves to recover funds, freezes assets in Bulacan flood control anomaly
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has formally asked government agencies to provide a full inventory of assets owned by 26 current and former officials and private contractors implicated in anomalous flood control projects in Bulacan, as part of efforts to recover taxpayers’ money allegedly lost to corruption.
In separate letters, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon requested the Land Transportation Office, the Land Registration Authority, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, and the Maritime Industry Authority to furnish his office with lists of motor vehicles, landholdings, aircraft, and water vessels under the names of the individuals charged before the Ombudsman.
Those named include former OIC–Assistant Regional Director Henry C. Alcantara, former OIC–District Engineer Brice Ericson D. Hernandez, former OIC–Assistant District Engineer Jaypee D. Mendoza, Construction Section Chief John Michael E. Ramos, Planning and Design Section officer Ernesto C. Galang, OIC–Maintenance Section Chief Lorenzo A. Pagtalunan, Quality Assurance and Hydrology Section officer Norberto L. Santos, Maintenance Section officer Jaime R. Hernandez, Administrative Section officer Floralyn Y. Simbulan, and Finance
Section employee Juanito C. Mendoza. Also identified were Budget Unit officer Roberto A. Roque, Procurement Unit officer Benedict J. Matawaran, Cashier II Christina Mae D. Pineda, Project Engineers Paul Jayson F. Duya, Merg Jaron C. Laus, Lemuel Ephraim C. Roque, Arjay S. Domasig, John Carlo C. Rivera, John Benex S. Francisco, and Jolo Mari V. Tayao.
From the private sector, the DPWH listed Ma. Roma Angeline D. Rimando, Cezarah Rowena C. Discaya, and Pacifico Discaya II of St. Timothy Construction Corporation; Mark Allan V. Arevalo, general manager of Wawao Builders; Sally N. Santos, ownermanager of Syms Construction Trading; and Robert T. Imperio, owner-manager of IM Construction Corp.
In his letter, Dizon explained that the move is meant “to prevent the dissipation, removal, or disposal of properties strongly suspected to be the proceeds of unlawful activities,” citing the Anti-Money Laundering Act.
Already, the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has frozen 135 bank accounts related to the flood control corruption scandal. The implicated individuals have also been charged with violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, malversation under the Revised Penal Code, falsification, and breaches of the Government Procurement Reform Act.
As this developed, the Commission on
Audit (COA) released on Thursday its latest fraud audit reports, which uncovered four “ghost” flood control projects under the DPWH Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office.
Among these were a supposed P92.6million flood control structure along Angat River in Plaridel, which satellite imagery showed never existed, and multiple slope protection projects in Bocaue and Pandi worth nearly P99 million each that auditors concluded were “non-existent” or had been misrepresented with mismatched locations.
The COA also flagged irregular approvals of change orders and the submission of fake or incomplete documents.
“The commission stressed that the initial list of liable persons is not final and may expand as the audit progresses, or new information becomes available,” the COA said on Thursday.
COA Commissioner Gamaliel Cordoba noted that the agency “will be working with the DPWH and the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board and other agencies for system integration,” which will essentially create a “centralized dashboard” of projects for more efficient auditing.
The DPWH said that the agency is moving to lower the unit costs of infrastructure projects by at least 10%, echoing calls made during the House budget deliberations to maximize public funds.
DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon explained
that the agency is now reviewing the Detailed Unit Price Analysis (DUPA), a standard that determines the cost estimates of DPWH projects, with the goal of trimming expenses and ensuring more efficient budget use.
“I already spoke with former Secretary [Rogelio] Singson, and I agree with him. One of our plans in the coming weeks and months is to find ways to reduce the DUPA nationwide,” he said.
“We need to carefully review it with the end goal of bringing it down to make budget utilization more efficient. tend to agree with him that it is possible to cut it by at least 10% across the board,” Dizon added. House Committee on Appropriations Vice Chairman Leandro Leviste earlier raised the proposal to cut unit costs, citing that even a 10% reduction could free up billions for additional projects or deficit reduction. Leviste emphasized that lowering the DUPA could result in significant savings: “If there’s at least 10% savings on P880 billion, then there could be at least P88 billion of savings that could go either to more projects or help close the deficit.”
“Lowering DPWH unit costs by 20% could save P176 billion, which can even support our proposal to lower the VAT from 12% to 10% and result in an average of P7000 per year of additional disposable income for every Filipino family,” Leviste added. With Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz
‘Walang Gutom’ program shows success: Hunger incidence drops, reports DSWD
THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Thursday reported that hunger incidence among beneficiaries of the Walang Gutom Program (WGP) continues to decline.
to automate the hardest parts of hustling: discovery, matching, and monetization”
She said “Earnie acts as a personal hustle coach, analyzing a user’s tacit knowledge, lived experiences, and inapp behavior to generate personalized side hustle opportunities, even for those who don’t know where to start.”
Scout, on the other hand, she added, “functions as a precision task router for listers. It interprets vague, messy, or highly specific requests by factoring in urgency, budget, skill relevance, and location, and instantly translates them into bookable tasks that get matched with the best-fit hustlers”.
“This dual-AI system reduces friction on both sides of the marketplace, ensuring Serbiz doesn’t just connect people, it actively builds hustles and unlocks new income streams for them,” Argañoza said.
Since its launching in the Philippines early this year, Serbiz has rapidly grown its user base to more than 80,000 registered users, generating more than 27,000 “organic marketplace posts”, and ranking Top 3 in the App Store’s Business category within its first week. On average, users spend nine minutes per session, and 70 percent of new hustlers activate their first hustle within a week of signing up.
“At Serbiz, we’re not just building another gig platform, we’re building confidence for a generation that wants more control over their future,” said Aliexandra Heart Po, co-founder and chief operation officer of Serbiz. “Our AI learns and evolves with Filipino culture, helping Gen Z turn everyday creativity into income. This is about proving that hustling isn’t just survival, it’s empowerment, and it’s scalable.”
As the gig economy continues to surge in the Philippines, Serbiz said it was riding this upward wave. As of this year, the company said there are an estimated 1.5 million Filipinos registered in international freelancing platforms, “reflecting the vast and growing pool of gig workers in the country”. Moreover, it said, the Philippines has emerged as one of the fastestgrowing gig markets in the world, consistently ranking among the top countries in the Global Gig Economy Index.
During President Marcos’ visit to the DSWD’s Walang Gutom Kitchen (WGK) in Pasay City, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said data show a drop in hunger incidence from 48.7 percent in December 2024 to 41.6 percent in March.
As of September 17, the WGK has already served 108,552 individuals since it opened in December 2024.
As part of the belated celebration of
the president’s 68th birthday, WGK clients joined in the festivities, sharing his birthday cake and enjoying a hearty meal that included rice, chicken fillet, vegetables, palabok, adobo, and fruits.
Gatchalian highlighted that both the WGK and the broader WGP embody the President’s long-standing birthday wish— for no Filipino family to experience hunger.
“Today we are celebrating the President’s birthday here at the Walang Gutom Kitchen. We know that his wish has always been that no Filipino family should ever go hungry. We will continue working to make this wish come true—for a Philippines
where every family has enough food on the table,” Gatchalian said during his September 13 visit to the WGK in honor of the President’s birthday.
President Marcos, for his part, reaffirmed that his wish has remained constant throughout the years.
“My birthday wish has never changed— from the very beginning until now that I am president. I want every Filipino to live a dignified life, and for us to carry out all our projects, especially for the poor. It has always been the same: that one day we will achieve my dream of a Philippines without hunger—and I believe we will reach it,” the
Pay hike set for C. Visayas workers, kasambahays next
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
PRIVATE sector employees and domestic workers in Central Visayas will receive higher wages starting October 4 after its Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB VII) issued two new wage orders.
Under Wage Order ROVII-26 made public on Thursday, daily minimum wages in Class A areas will increase by P39, raising the rate from P501 to P540.
In Class B areas, wages will rise by P37 to P47, bringing the new minimum to P500 from the previous P453 to P463.
The board said the adjustment was based on economic indicators in the region, including the rise in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) from 120.7 in October 2024 to 123.9 in August 2025 and the 2 percent average inflation rate recorded in the last 10 months.
It also noted that the 2023 poverty threshold for a family of five stood at P473, leaving two of the three minimum wage rates in Central Visayas still below that level. RTWPB VII further cited the region’s 7.3 percent growth in gross regional domestic product from 2023 to 2024 and a 4.3 percent increase in labor productivity from 2022 to 2023.
Meanwhile, Wage Order ROVII-DW-05 sets a uniform monthly minimum wage of P7,000 for domestic workers across Central Visayas.
This replaces the previous split structure of P6,000 for those in chartered cities and first-class municipalities and P5,000 for other areas.
The new wage rate covers all household workers, regardless of whether they live in or outside their employers’ homes.
These include general househelp, nanny (yaya), cook, gardener, laundry person, and other workers regularly performing domestic tasks on an occupational basis.
DepEd condemns killing of former legal officer in Palawan, seeks justice
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3
THE Department of Education
(DepEd)—Central Office condemned in the strongest possible terms what they called the senseless act of violence following the killing of the agency’s former legal officer in Palawan.
Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara also appealed to the Philippine National Police (PNP), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) to lend their full support and expertise to ensure the swift delivery of justice to Atty. Joshua L. Abrina, who was shot on Wednesday evening outside their
house in Purok Bagong Pag-asa, Barangay San Jose. Abrina just arrived home with his wife and child.
“We honor his service, his integrity, and his unwavering commitment to protecting learners’ rights and strengthening the Department’s legal foundations,” Angara said in a statement as the DepEd condemned in the strongest possible terms this senseless act of violence against a member of our institution and the legal profession.
“Such attacks not only cause deep grief to families and colleagues but also strike at the very principles of justice and public service,” Angara said, stressing that the DepEd is fully cooperating with law enforcement agencies in their investigation of “this heinous crime.”
The DepEd official added, “We are resolute in our call that those responsible be held accountable and that justice be served swiftly.”
Likewise, Angara underscored the urgent need to guarantee the safety of Abrina’s family and any witnesses, “so that truth may prevail without fear or intimidation.”
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Atty. Abrina. His dedication to education and the rule of law will continue to inspire our mission of ensuring that every Filipino learner is nurtured in a safe, just, and compassionate environment,” Angara concluded.
Abrina resigned from DepEd in July, and later transferred to the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).
Oceana, Pangisda Pilipinas call for enactment of National Greenbelt Bill
THE Oceana and fisherfolk group Pangisda Pilipinas calling on President Ferdinand Marcos and Congress to prioritize the passage of the National Coastal Greenbelt Bill. This proposed measure is pushing for
the strategic rehabilitation, protection, and expansion of the nation’s mangrove forests and natural coastal ecosystems as a sustainable, cost-effective, and resilient first line of defense against flooding and storm surges.
Pablo Rosales, President of Pangisda Pilipinas, said in the face of widespread flooding, fishers and their family near coastal areas are severely affected. “Instead
“Oceana,”
President said in his pre-birthday message. The Walang Gutom Kitchen is one of DSWD’s flagship innovations that supports President Marcos’ vision of a hunger-free Philippines. The initiative addresses involuntary hunger and reduces food waste by transforming surplus donations from hotels, restaurants, and organizations into nutritious hot meals.
As the country’s first food bank and a pioneering public-private partnership, the WGK continues to serve free hot meals to families, individuals, and children in street situations in Pasay City. Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz
Bong Go lauds
Calabarzon vice mayors, celebrates son’s new role in public service
ADOPTED son of Calabarzon Senator Christopher “Bong” Go commended on Tuesday, September 16, the members of the Vice Mayors League of the Philippines (VMLP) Calabarzon Chapter during their gathering at Century Park Hotel in Manila.
“Malaki ang inyong ambag para masiguro na gumagana nang maayos ang mga lokal na pamahalaan at mapakinggan ang boses ng ating mga kababayan,” Go said.
The senator, likewise,- acknowledged that the job of vice mayors is no easy task: “Alamkonghindimadalianginyongtrabaho bilangkatuwangngatingpunonglungsod at punong bayan.”
As such, Sen. Go gave a timely reminder to the officials: “Tandaan n’yo po, minsan lang tayo dadaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na puwede natingawinsaatingkapwa,gawinnanatin ngayon,” Go said. During the same event, Go proudly shared that his son, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who placed third in the CPA Board Exam and graduated as valedictorian in his law class—is now serving as a vice mayor himself.
He recounted the advice he gave his son, which he also learned from his mentor in local governance, former President Rodrigo Duterte, and which he now shares with other local officials, “Unahin ang pagseserbisyo. Justdowhatisright.Unahinanginteres ngbayan,unahinanginteresngPilipino at hindi ka nagkakamali,” Go said.
PHL tourism: Will Palawan’s spotlight spark a revival?
AS winter approaches and the Northern Hemisphere braces for the chill, the allure of sunsoaked destinations beckons. Recently, Condé Nast Traveller spotlighted Palawan as one of the “sun-kissed spots” to escape to in January 2026. This recognition not only highlights Palawan’s breathtaking beauty but also serves as a reminder of the Philippines’ potential as a premier global travel destination. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Palawan high on Condé Nast winter escape List,” September 16, 2025).
Laura Chub’s vivid description of Palawan as a tropical Shangri-La captures the imagination. With its soaring limestone karsts and crystalclear waters, Palawan is an idyllic escape reminiscent of the Maldives, yet uniquely its own. The recommendation of luxurious stays at Amanpulo and El Nido Resorts paints a picture of opulence and tranquility, appealing to travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. However, this positive spotlight comes at a time when the Philippines faces significant challenges in its tourism sector.
Despite Palawan’s growing reputation, the country’s overall international arrivals have seen a decline. In the first eight months of 2025, the country welcomed only 3.96 million international travelers—a stark contrast to the pre-pandemic era. This 1.56 percent drop compared to the previous year, coupled with a staggering 28 percent decline from 2019 figures, raises critical questions about the country’s tourism strategy and international relations.
The shifting dynamics in visitor demographics further complicate the narrative. While South Korea remains the top source of tourists, its numbers have also dipped significantly. The fall in Chinese visitors, from second place in 2019 to fifth in 2025, underscores the impact of geopolitical tensions on tourism. The strained relations between Manila and Beijing over the West Philippine Sea have undoubtedly influenced travel decisions, emphasizing the need for a more robust diplomatic approach to revive this crucial market.
Moreover, while the rise in overseas Filipino travelers signifies a positive trend, it also highlights a reliance on a specific demographic during a time of overall decline. The government must strategically pivot to attract a more diverse array of international tourists. This includes enhancing marketing efforts and fostering relationships with countries that have shown growth, such as Japan, Australia, and Canada.
The Department of Tourism faces a daunting challenge ahead. With missed targets from previous years and a need to rejuvenate the tourism sector, strategic planning and execution are imperative. The upcoming release of new arrival targets from 2025 to 2028 should reflect a realistic assessment of the global travel landscape and the unique attributes of the Philippines.
While Palawan’s recognition as a top winter destination is a muchneeded boost, it should serve as a rallying point for broader tourism revitalization efforts across the country. As the world emerges from the shadows of the pandemic, we have an opportunity to re-establish the country as a key player in the global tourism market. The beauty of Palawan can only shine brighter if supported by a strong, strategic, and inclusive tourism framework that invites the world to rediscover the Philippines.
ARINONG Filipino: Ating Karagatan. Ating Kabuhayan. Alagaan!” is the theme for this year’s 30th National Seafarers Day (NSD) on September 28, 2025.
The Philippines is considered a major supplier of maritime labor globally. It is estimated that there is one Filipino seafarer for every four to five complements on board a vessel at any time.
According to the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO)/ International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) Seafarer Workforce Report 2021, the top five largest suppliers of officers and ratings are the Philippines, the Russian Federation, Indonesia, China, and India. Together, these countries supplied 44 percent of the global seafarer workforce.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) noted that there were 504,057 Filipino seafarers deployed in foreign flagged vessel in 2024.
The sea-based sector’s remittances comprised at least 20 percent of the total OFW dollar remittances, amounting to $6,941,085,000 in 2024 per Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas data.
President Fidel V. Ramos issued Proclamation No. 828 s,1996, declaring August 18 as NSD. Proclamation 1094s, 1997, later moved the event to the last Sunday of September every year.
The purpose of the proclamation is to recognize the vital role of Filipino seafarers in the development of the Philippines as a maritime country.
Stella Maris Philippines is tasked with coordinating with the public and private sectors NSD-related activities such as masses, novenas, processions, parades, family day, and karaoke challenge.
Sunday masses during NSD are offered for the Filipino seafarers.
Stella Maris acts as the Catholic Church’s missionary work to the peoples of the sea, particularly seafarers, whether on merchant, passenger, war, or fishing vessels. It provides practical and pastoral care to all peoples of the sea, regardless of nationality, belief, or race, through
chaplaincies in ports in all continents of the world.
There are presently 17 Stella Maris centers nationwide: five in Luzon (Batangas, La Union, Manila, Palawan, Pangasinan), six in Visayas (Bohol, Capiz, Cebu, Dumaguete, Iloilo, Leyte) and six in Mindanao (Basilan, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, General Santos City, Iligan, Zamboanga).
The NSD coincides with the NMW, which is held every last week of September and spearheaded alternatively by the government agencies Maritime Industry Authority (Marina), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) by virtue of Proclamation No. 1560 s 2008.
The NSD/NMW activities will run from September 20 to 28, 2025. September is also Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANAMo), which aims to
increase awareness and appreciation for the Philippines’ maritime and archipelagic nature. The celebrations of all maritime-related events and activities are synchronized in a single month with this year’s theme “Nagkakaisang Kapuluan, Panatag na Karagatan.”
International Coastal Cleanup Day is on September 20, 2025. It is being conducted every third Saturday of September of each year. It is a worldwide effort where volunteers collect trash from beaches, rivers, and waterways, record the data, and help develop solutions for ocean pollution.
World Maritime Day (WMD) is set on September 25, 2025 with the theme “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity.” WMD was first held in 1978 to mark the 20th anniversary of the IMO Convention’s entry into force and is held annually during the last week of September. This year’s theme reflects the essential role the ocean plays in sustaining life, livelihoods, and the global economy. The ocean provides half of the oxygen we breathe, feeds billions of people, regulates the climate, and enables more than 80 percent of global trade through maritime transport. The ocean is also home to countless marine species and a vital source of jobs, food, and economic opportunity for millions. The United Nations said in its See “Gorecho,” A15
Targeting a college graduate in every family
IN a recent speech before awardees of the Commission on Higher Education-Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (CHED-UNIFAST) scholarship, President Marcos stated his goal of having a college graduate in every Filipino family. In his State of the Nation Address in July this year, he mentioned a similar but more modest goal of either a college graduate or a TESDA graduate in every household.
College education is both a cause and an effect of higher income in households. On the one hand, college completers earn significantly more than non-college completers. Based on the 2023 Family Income and Expenditures Survey-Labor Force Survey (FIES-LFS) of the Philippine Statistics Authority, for instance, college graduates who worked fulltime as paid employees earned P924 per day, on average, which is about 58 percent higher than what college undergraduates and vocational graduates earned, 69 percent higher than what vocational undergraduates earned, and double what high school graduates and below earned. On the other hand, college enrollment has historically been dominated by students from higher income households because of its associated
EAGLE WATCH
Dr. Geoffrey Ducanes
Dennis Gorecho
Britain wants social mobility but private schools still dominate
By Irina Anghel
DESPITE increasing corporate efforts to hire from more diverse backgrounds, private school alumni remain dominant among the most powerful positions in British society, according to a sprawling new report on social mobility in the United Kingdom.
New data from social mobility charity the Sutton Trust show that elite schooling remains the surest route to the top of British society, a reflection that corporate efforts to improve socioeconomic mobility at companies have only made little headway.
Efforts include expanding apprenticeship programs without degree requirements, switching from filtering candidates by national exam results to looking at their performance relative to their school average, and collecting data on what share of top ranks come from working-class backgrounds.
Diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives have aimed to correct historic imbalances that left ethnicminority and lower-socioeconomic workers underrepresented. Yet among those schooled in the UK, people in the most influential roles, from senior judges and government officials to newspaper columnists and CEOs, are still five times more likely to have attended private school than the average Briton, the Sutton Trust finds.
There are signs that that socio-economic mobility has improved since 2019, when the Sutton Trust last conducted a similar analysis. The share of bosses running the UK’s top 100 companies who attended fee-paying private schools declined to 18 percent, while for entrepreneurs, defined by the Sutton Trust as founders of privately owned startups valued above $1 billion, the figure is 27 percent, the report shows.
Politics has shifted too; last year’s switch from a Conservative to a Labour government last year ushered in a cabinet—the Prime Minister’s top team—where about 7 percent went to private school, down from almost 39 percent seven years ago. Yet progress isn’t uniform. In some fields, such as FTSE 100 chairs or newspaper columnists, the balance has actually tipped further in the favor of privately-schooled individuals, the review shows.
For the vast majority of Britons, who are state-educated, reaching the top-earning echelons of business, finance and government remains an uphill climb. Research published in June found that graduates from working class backgrounds, though well represented in job applications for professional jobs, are 32 percent less likely to receive an offer compared to peers from a professional background. It also found that applicants who studied at private school were more likely to be hired compared to those from state schools. Oxford and Cambridge graduates—disproportionately privately educated—are also more likely to land a role the best-paid or mostinfluential roles, according to the Sutton Trust’s analysis. To be sure, student bodies at Oxford and Cambridge have become more diverse. State-school students now make up a majority of those admitted at both universities.
“In light of recent pushback against the diversity agenda, it is vital that class is put at the heart of diversity and inclusion,” the report’s
Gorecho. . . continued from A14
Death of memories in September
SOME 53 years ago, on the 16th of September, 1972, the old bridge that spanned a part of the Naga River collapsed, killing hundreds of devotees and pilgrims.
authors warn. Many firms operating in the US, such as Accenture Plc and PepsiCo Inc, have pared back or canceled diversity and inclusion initiatives after US Donald Trump signed executive orders demanding the end of what he calls “wasteful” and “illegal” DEI. This US-led backlash has had reverberations across the Atlantic, with a number of UK companies, such as BT Group Plc, cutting back on some diversity initiatives.
While much of that pushback has focused on gender, sexual orientation and race rather than family background, it’s still creating hurdles for UK organizations that want to take into account the socio-economic background of their employees when deciding how to hire and promote.
“If you are either headquartered in the US or maybe your capital is raised in the US, there’s definitely greater nervousness,” Jenny Baskerville, chief executive of the Bridge Group and former head of inclusion, diversity and equity at KPMG UK, said in a phone interview. “I still think there’s a push amongst some of the big employers to show that this is important. My bigger worry is whether there’s potentially a lack of investment or indeed that people are just more nervous to talk about it.”
The findings echo a 2024 analysis by Progress Together, a nonprofit that looks to boost social mobility in Britain’s finance sector. Its analysis showed that that half of those working in financial services come from higher-socio economic backgrounds, with that proportion increasing for the top positions.
Some sectors have increased efforts, Baskerville said, citing examples such as Morgan Stanley, which made social mobility a board-level priority, as well as Baskerville’s former employer KMPG, who has a program to help middle management staff from lower socio-economic backgrounds progress in their careers. Other sectors, such as tech and the creative industries are still lagging behind, the report shows.
The Sutton Trust report said the government should require all companies with over 250 employees to report on the socioeconomic background of their staff and publish pay gaps, in a similar pledge the government has made to tackle the ethnicity and disability pay gap at companies. It also recommended that employers share best practices, collaborate with universities and community organizations to help students from disadvantaged backgrounds transition into the workplace, and tackle differences in retention and promotion rates between workers from different backgrounds.
“Most employers aren’t building a talent pipeline of young people from less advantaged backgrounds,” said Carl Cullinane, Director of Research and Policy at the Sutton Trust. “And while there have been efforts to make business more inclusive, work on social mobility is patchy, and too often, social class is not included in the diversity conversation. This means they’re potentially limiting their talent pool.” Bloomberg
website: “But the ocean faces mounting pressure—from pollution and overuse to the accelerating effects of climate change. Protecting it is not just about saving nature—it is a global responsibility that touches every aspect of human life. As the largest sector operating in ocean space, the shipping industry plays a crucial role in both facilitating global commerce and advancing ocean protection.”
Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the Seafarers’ Division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan Law Offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez. com, or call 09175025808.
It was a Saturday, the day of the fluvial procession, when the icon called Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia was to be taken back to her shrine by the river. Although popular for the name “colgante,” which literally meant “pendant” or “hanging,” the bridge had retained only the name of the former structure. By 1972, a reconstructed bailey bridge, temporary at best, had been serving the public.
When it collapsed that fateful day in September, the bridge not noted for being sturdy was said to be occupied by thousands of people, all eager for a vantage point to view the passing of ‘Ina’, as the Virgin was fondly addressed by the Bicolanos. The pagoda as the barge that bore the icon was called had not yet passed the bridge when the tragedy occurred.
The accounts were hazy at this point. One narrative recalled how the people along the river bank had to hastily arrange a path where the image could be brought to shore. The site where the Virgin and her retinue waded to safety had now been memorialized as “Hinawasan,” which literally meant “where one rose from.”
It was usually the tradition of the nine-day Peñafrancia festivity
that the celebration geographically shifted across the river once the Virgin returned to her old home. But in the face of death and panic, there was only the frantic energy and grief of the city coping with the countless corpses being taken from the river to what was then the provincial hospital of the city. The number of bloated bodies were so numerous many had to be brought to DZRB, before it became the ABS-CBN station, there for identification.
By early evening, people were gathering at both ends of the collapsed bridge. Some were bringing food for the rescuers; there were men carrying Petromax lamps and flashlights and blankets.
We could hear the pealing of the bells but we were not sure whether they were heralding the safe arrival of the Patrona del Bicol at Her home or tolling to console the faithful of the endless funerals.
The old people were whispering about taboos broken, the breaches in devotion, the treachery of rituals.
Each year, the “Traslacion,” the land procession that brought the icon from the shrine to the cathedral, had become more boisterous and wilder. The community had al-
ways been conflicted about all this. The literatures were full of exegesis about the meanings—the symbols operative—of the devotion. There were those who thought of their faith as the reproduction of the origin of their religious struggle as “cimarrones,” the beasts tamed by the splendor of this new Deity, the ‘Salve Regina’ who conquered the river Serpent. Over and above this, there was the institutional Church that, for all the chaos and ex oticism, benefited from a religion that was born over and over again.
The black Satur day of September would not, how ever, end that day.
A week later, on another Saturday, we woke up to a very quiet morn ing. There was no morning news at all. There was what we called “instrumental” music being played in all the radio stations.
announcement was made—martial law had been declared. We should all go home and wait for further announcements.
To those of us who were enrolled then in colleges and universities, Saturday was the day for ROTC drills. We called them formation. We reported in school and the early morning consisted of marching and, if there were competitions scheduled, a practice to dismantle rifles. Then, it was a series of classroom instruction.
On this Saturday, the 23rd of September, we were there in front of the Ateneo de Naga Four Pillars. The officers in charge of our respective platoons would oftentimes excuse themselves leaving us with nothing to do at all.
At about 8 in the morning, the
At first, we could not understand the meaning of the declaration. Then came the next instruction—those who needed to “clean and clear” their student offices may do so now. During this time, Ateneo de Naga was the seat of activism in the region. All over the campus, anti-government posters and streamers were in full display. The school had its share also of double agents. I do not remember now how I managed to go home. The news came to us in trickles with some Jesuit priests ‘invited’ to military camps in Pili, Camarines Sur. The military developed a new meaning for the word “invite.” It was not safe to be ‘invited’ by the military. My older brother, Manong Pempe, to the joy of my grandparents, finally had his haircut. One day, he had to leave for the island of Ticao, to be safe there until things had been safe for him.
We would learn of the political trick a year later. Years and years after, when our minds reckon with dates, we look to the official declaration of the dictator—the 21st of September. No one remembers that other Saturday, the 23rd of September, in 1972, when silence fell on a nation and we were never the same again.
E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com
French protests over budget raise pressure on new prime minister
By William Horobin & Ania Nussbaum
FRENCH unions are leading widespread anti-austerity protests
Thursday, raising the pressure on newly appointed Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu as he struggles to find allies to piece together a budget.
All of the major labor organizations called on their members to join marches as a show of force against spending cuts proposed in July that they say amount to “unprecedented brutality.”
The fiscal plans were proposed by the previous prime minister, Francois Bayrou, who was forced to resign after losing a confidence vote earlier this month. But Lecornu, who was a member of Bayrou’s government, has so far given little indication of concessions he is willing to make. He’ll need to strike deals with some opposition lawmakers to avoid being ousted, but his consultations with rival groups have so far made little progress.
France’s caretaker transport minister, Philippe Tabarot, warned of significant disruption to the Paris metro on Thursday. While he said air travel is unlikely to be affected and only around 10 percent of high-speed trains can-
Watch. . . continued from A14
costs, although this has started to shift significantly, especially since the implementation of the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, more popularly known as the Free Tuition Law.
Still, according to the 2022 Annual Poverty and Indicators Survey, only a little more than 3 percent of college enrollers came from the poorest decile of households in terms of total income, which suggests income still matters.
The goal of at least one college per household is worthy but unlikely to be met anytime soon.
Based on the 2023 FIES-LFS, only 32 percent of all Philippine households have at least one college graduate for a member. The distribution of college graduates is highly skewed across income groups. Among households in the richest income decile, 75 percent had at least one college
celed, more than half of regional trains may not run. “The day will be difficult for users of public transport,” he said.
The transfer to the UK of the Bayeux tapestry that depicts William the Conqueror’s conquest of England was also delayed because of the protests, Agence France-Presse reported. French President Emmanuel Macron agreed earlier this year to lend the art work.
Thursday’s protests are set to mark a significant escalation from marches held on September 10 that were sparked by a grassroots call on social media to “block everything.” This time, unity among unions in calling for strikes, including the moderate CFDT, indicates a mobilization that could be similar in breadth to the backlash against pensions in 2023, at least for a day.
But Lecornu has little financial margin to appease protesters if he’s to tackle what has become the widest budget deficit in the euro area.
Adding to the pressure on the 39-year-old prime minister are the renewed selloff in French assets. That has pushed the country’s borrowing costs relative to peers to highs not seen since January.
Socialist lawmakers, whose tacit
graduate, whereas this figure was only 7 percent among the poorest decile households. This means that of the estimated 27.5 million Filipino households in 2023, 18.8 million did not have a college graduate for a member and most of these are low-income households.
The most recent data available from the Commission on Higher Education website puts the annual number of college graduates at 830,000 in academic year 2022-2023 (and 666,000 in 2021-2022). At this rate, even in the very optimistic but highly unlikely event that all future college graduates will come from households that do not have a college graduate, and that there is no increase in the number of families in the future, it will take 23 years to achieve the goal of at least one college graduate for every household.
There are 1,619 private HEIs, 113 state universities and colleges (which have 442 satellite campuses), and 154 local universities and colleges, according to CHED.
backing allowed the 2025 budget to be adopted, said Lecornu was vague in meetings on Wednesday with no new concessions proposed. They are counting on Thursday’s strikes to strengthen their leverage in further rounds of talks as they seek to temper the prior government’s proposal to narrow the budget deficit to 4.6 percent of economic output in 2026 from 5.4 percent this year.
“French people must see their lives change,” Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure said after meeting Lecornu. “The entirety of Bayrou’s proposal must fall.”
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau—who is also serving in a caretaker role—said he expects “hybrid” action Thursday, starting with the potential obstruction of roads and other areas by radical groups early in the morning and followed by the risk of thousands of violent protesters joining marches.
More than 80,000 police officers will be deployed.
“I expect a very, very strong mobilization,” he said on BFM TV Wednesday.
National Rally President Jordan Bardella said after a meeting on Wednesday with Lecornu that if the
The problem with focusing too much on raising the quantity of college graduates is that we could be losing out on quality. The Philippine higher education system appears to consist of a handful of good quality higher education institutions (HEIs) that manage to rank high internationally in ranking systems such as the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings and the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings, but many more that are of more modest or even low quality.
The universities that manage to rank high in both the THE and QS World University Rankings are Ateneo de Manila University, the University of the Philippines, De La Salle University, Mapua University, and the University of Sto. Tomas.
Increasing enrollment in SUCs and LUCs without a commensurate increase in the budget to finance the hiring of more and qualified teachers, the improvement in curriculum, the purchase of equipment, and invest-
prime minister
“continues Macron’s policies, he’ll fall.” Standing next to him, Marine Le Pen was repeatedly asked whether and when her party might vote to oust Lecornu—after his first policy speech or during later budget negotiations. “We’ll see,” she said. “We’ll judge based on evidence.”
In an early bid to get backing for a 2026 budget, Lecornu has already given up on Bayrou’s proposal to scrap two public holidays. But opposition groups are pushing for many more concessions, including suspending President Emmanuel Macron’s 2023 pension reform and restoring higher wealth taxation. The Socialists are leading calls for a 2 percent levy on fortunes of over €100 million ($118 million), which they say would raise €15 billion a year. While other political groups have called for similar measures, the outgoing government has warned it would threaten investment in France.
“It’s crazy, in reality it’s communist,” the head of state investment bank Bpifrance, Nicolas Dufourcq, said on RMC radio. “How can people still come up with such nonsense in France?” Bloomberg
ment in infrastructure is a recipe for disaster. It can lead to producing college graduates who do not necessarily have college-level skills. Getting low-income students to enroll in college but not providing them adequate financial support to pay for their non-tuition needs could just lead to a high dropout rate. In low-income households, the problem is not just finishing college, but even just finishing secondary school is a struggle. Maybe a starting point could be a targeted scholarship program for children from households with low human capital level, which could be defined for instance as households where no member has finished high school, and providing financial support to these children (possibly as a conditional cash transfer) from early in their education up to as high as they can reach, including college.
Tito Genova Valiente ANNOTATIONS
Friday, September 19, 2025
BusinessMirror
Cabinet panel hiking to ₧5B amount of projects to review
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THEinteragency Investment Coordination Committee (ICC) intends to raise the threshold amount of projects for evaluation as the current amount has already been overtaken by inflation, according to the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev).
This means that once cleared by the Economic Development (ED) Council, projects with a tag of P5 billion and over will be the only ones evaluated by the ICC. Previously, this threshold was at P2.5 billion and was set nearly a decade ago in 2017.
DepDev Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan told BusinessMirror on the sidelines of the 11th Annual Public Policy Conference of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (APPC) that this new threshold has been presented to the President
but a full approval of the revised ICC guidelines, which includes the threshold, is scheduled toward the end of the month.
“It’s been overtaken by inflation already and then you look at the composition of the portfolio of projects they’ve had, the average or median is something like that already,” Balisacan told this newspaper.
“Lumalaki na yung ekonomiya, dumadami na ang mga projects [The economy is growing and there are now more projects to evaluate]. We can’t micromanage. We are willing
IBy Bless Aubrey Ogerio @blessogerio
DEAS born from communities and breakthroughs in science are the twin forces that will sustain the Philippines’s rise in the Global Innovation Index (GII), officials said.
The Philippines ranked 50th out of 139 economies in the 2025 edition of the index, published annually by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), which was up three notches from 53rd out of 133 economies in 2024.
Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (Depdev) director Diane Gail Maharian told BusinessMirror the milestone signals stronger investor confidence and wider opportunities for collaboration with international partners.
“Even other start-ups from other countries are finding collaborative start-up partners in the Philippines,” Maharian said in mixed English and Filipino at the sidelines of the GII press conference in Taguig City.
The ranking also exceeded the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) target of 52nd place for 2025. The PDP aims for the country to reach 49th by 2026 and 43rd by 2028.
“First, there are five pillars on the input side, and those are our investments—in policies, infrastructure, R&D [research and development]. And then maybe we also have to further improve our data collection,” she said.
In a statement, Depdev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, who also serves as vice chair of the National Innovation Council (NIC), said the progress affirms the country’s trajectory toward joining the top one-third of global innovation economies by 2028.
“Surpassing our 2025 target is the result of sustained reforms, targeted investments, and strong collaboration across sectors and key players in the country’s innovation ecosystem,” Balisacan said.
“We remain committed to scaling our innovation capacity, bridging critical gaps in research and digital infrastructure, and ensuring that innovation drives inclusive and sustainable development,” he added.
The Philippines has also been recognized as an “Innovation Overperformer” for the seventh straight year, a recognition given to economies
that score higher than expected for their development level. It joins a group of middle-income countries such as China, India, Indonesia, Türkiye, Viet Nam, Iran, Albania, and Morocco that have steadily advanced since 2013.
Among the country’s strengths in the 2025 index are: first in hightech exports as a share of total trade, fourth in high-tech imports, 16th in creative goods exports, 20th in ICT services exports, and 35th in intangible asset intensity.
Building capacity
ACCORDING to Director General Brigitte da Costa-Villaluz of the Intellectual Pro,perty Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) that the steady climb for four years straight reflects a pattern of improvement.
“We know the capabilities now, we just continue and mark those where we improved, and push further in areas where we have potential but need more work,” Villaluz said in Filipino.
She added that being in the top 50 sends a clear message to investors. “That the Philippines is not just an innovator but a country that is ready for industries,” the IPOPHL head said.
She also emphasized the importance of protecting grassroots innovations. “For students, my call is for the youth to be more into science and engineering because it’s related to innovation, but it’s also an area we need more young people to go into,” Villaluz said.
“Then on the grassroots side— farmers, fisherfolk—many are creating, but their ideas are not protected, and they don’t know how to protect them. That’s why we will have to expand education campaigns so their ideas can be protected, commercialized, and monetized.”
For his part, Science Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. pointed to human resource capacity, infrastructure, and equipment as areas where the country needs to improve.
“That’s why a big part of the Global Innovation Index focuses on the value chain of human resources, starting from primary education to universities, one of which looks at learning performance. So we need to start young,” he said during the
to decentralize the decision making process,” he also said.
Balisacan said the latest revision of the ICC threshold, however, does not cover Official Development Assistance (ODA)-financed projects. All these projects will be evaluated by the ICC and eventually, the ED Council.
“ODA-funded projects, all of those will go through the ED Council. But when it comes to PPP [Public Private Partnership], GAA [General Appropriation Act] and would not require subsidies or availability payments, the lower level of authority of the government is in place [to evaluate],” Balisacan said in mixed Filipino.
Asked whether this is the right course of action given the controversies surrounding government projects particularly those on flood control, Balisacan said what is needed is to improve project monitoring and evaluation in general.
Balisacan said Congress can start doing this by granting more resources for monitoring and evaluation. He said every year, the budget of agencies for project monitoring, evaluation, and research gets reduced.
He said given sufficient resources
and the use of random sampling, agencies would be able to conduct research on projects and determine how efficient these are being implemented or undertaken.
“It doesn’t have to be a complete census of projects. We use science, the principle of random sampling. With a small number of projects that are properly chosen using the science of statistics, we should be able to get an overall picture of how well the projects are implemented, whether they achieve their purpose, etc.,” Balisacan told BusinessMirror
The raising of the threshold is part of the overall revision of the ICC guidelines. DepDev sources told BusinessMirror the review includes adjustments in the rules in light of the creation of the PPP Code.
Under the proposed revised rules of the ICC, the DepDev also intends to implement stricter rules when it comes to projects entering ICC evaluation. This means that when a submission is deemed incomplete, these projects will be returned to the respective implementing agency for completion prior to submission.
The ICC consists of the Secretary of Finance, as chairman; the DEPDev Secretary, as cochair; and the
TBy Lenie Lectura @llectura
HE Department of Energy (DOE) is taking its partnership with Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR) a step further with the launch of the inaugural Philippines-Indonesia Joint Energy Working Group Meeting.
DOE Undersecretary Alessandro O. Sales and MEMR
Secretary General Dadan O. Kusdiana led the launch, as both countries have established working groups tasked with exploring potential cooperation in vital areas, including upstream and downstream oil and gas, renewable energy, energy efficiency, power generation, alternative fuels, electric vehicles, human resource development, critical minerals, and broader energy transition strategies.
The enhanced bilateral energy cooperation builds on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by both countries in January 2024. The agreement, signed during the state visit of then Indonesian President Joko Widodo to the Philippines, reflects both countries’ strong commitment to advancing shared goals in energy security, sustainability, and
innovation. It seeks to promote long-term supply agreements for key energy commodities such as coal and LNG, foster greater engagement between the Filipino and Indonesian business sectors, and address common challenges within the energy sector.
During the inaugural meeting, both sides exchanged insights and proposed potential areas for collaboration. Discussions centered on aligning policies, capacity building programs, sharing of knowledge on existing regulatory frameworks, and best practices across various energy subsectors. The dialogue also touched on resource and market assessment and avenues for trade and investment cooperation.
The respective working teams will identify and finalize priority areas of collaboration aimed at delivering tangible outcomes during the initial three-year term of the MOU. This partnership is envisioned to play a pivotal role in advancing both countries’ strategic energy objectives, while fostering a more resilient, secure, and sustainable energy future for the region, the DOE said. The next joint energy working group meeting is set to take place in Manila in 2026.
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
GOGOLOOK, the global trust tech company behind the anti-scam app Whoscall, is projecting “significant g rowth” in its Philippine user base this year as artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the scam landscape and makes more Filipinos vulnerable to fraud.
Whoscall, which has already logged 2.2 million installs in the country, is aiming to expand its reach by “a million” more users by yearend, according to Gogolook Country Head and General Man-
ager Mel Migriño.
“We are anticipating a significant increase from the figure we shared. We’re trying to hit a million range,” she said in a press conference Thursday. “[Down the line] we hope to get a pretty good share of the total population.”
Migriño said the company has “societal focus areas,” specifically lower-income households who are often more susceptible to risks. The push comes as new data shows that 72 percent of Filipinos have already encountered scams, with many reporting psychological stress and negative impacts on
their well-being. Migriño warned that while traditional call- and SMS-based scams have seen a decline, scammers have migrated online, exploiting social media, messaging platforms, and even digital ads.
“AI can be abused and weaponized. If you look at the scam landscape...[bad actors] have migrated online. AI actually helps scale the massive proliferation of scams in social media,” she lamented. She explained that generative AI has enabled the use of deepfakes and bots to blur truth and falsehood at unprecedented speed. With
See “Cabinet,”
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
Del Monte Pacific auditor flags 2025 financial report
By VG Cabuag @villygc
ERNST & Young LLP, the auditor commissioned by Campos-led Del Monte Pacific Ltd. (DMPL), has issued a disclaimer of its opinion on the financial statement of the company for fiscal year 2025, which ended on April 30.
The accounting firm said it cannot confirm the company’s impairment losses of $703.4 million, or about P39.39 billion, for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2025, which came mainly from its US unit Del Monte Foods Holdings Ltd.
“Based on information available to us, we were unable to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence to assess whether the carrying values of the assets held for disposal and liabilities directly associated with assets held for disposal in the consolidated financial statements represents the fair value less costs to sell of the disposal group in accordance with the requirements of IFRS 5 Non-current
Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations,” it said.
“We do not express an opinion on the accompanying financial statements of the group and the company. Because of the significance of the matter described in the basis for disclaimer of opinion of our report, we have not been able to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence to provide a basis for an audit opinion on these financial.”
The said disclaimer stems from the ongoing Chapter 11 restructuring of Del Monte Foods, the company’s United States unit, which filed for bankruptcy protection last July 2025.
Due to the proceedings, the auditors said they were unable to assess the carrying values of Del Monte Foods’ assets and liabilities.
For its fiscal year ending April 30, Del Monte said it recorded a net income of $48.85 million, a reversal of the $20.04-million loss it incurred a year ago.
Del Monte Foods and its subsidiaries, including Del Monte Foods Corp. II Inc., had been classified as “discontinued operations” as of April 30 this year, and was deconsolidated from the company on May 1.
“As of 30 April 2025, DMPL had already fully impaired its investment and other assets in its US subsidiaries,” the company said.
Del Monte said it recognized a non-recurring gain of $40.8 million from the share swap in India, which had a difference of 39 percent for audited and unaudited for operating profit and a variance of 350 percent for net profit.
Del Monte said its $442.3 million of non-current loans had been reclassified as current loans, a required reclassification as per International Financial Reporting Standards as the waivers for non-compliance of certain financial covenants with
banks were obtained past the fiscal year end of April 30.
On August 8, the company and its subsidiary, Del Monte Philippines Inc., obtained a waiver for the non-compliance of the debt-equity ratio (DER) covenant from certain Philippine banks, which states that these banks will not conduct a DER testing for 2025 and 2026.
The said ratio indicates how much debt a company is using to finance its assets as against the value of shareholders’ equity. The next testing will happen in September 2026 for the said banks, it said.
“Therefore, the aforementioned $442.3 million loans had been reclassified back to non-current loans after the date of the banks’ waiver,” the company said.
For its fiscal first quarter ending July 31, the company reported a net profit of $5.5 million from the previous year’s $400,000. The figure already excludes its US unit.
Higher sales from the Philippines pushed its turnover to rise by 13 percent to $203.7 million from the previous year’s $180.4 million.
Net debt for the period fell by 5 percent to $1.02 billion from the previous year’s $1.08 billion.
EBy Lenie Lectura @llectura
IGHT more firms have joined the Net Zero Carbon Alliance (NZCA), a group of local companies and organizations that commits to become carbon neutral, bringing to 41 the total number of its private sector partners since it was launched in 2021.
NZCA’s eight new partners are Bulwarc Technologies Inc., Cebu Pacific, De La Salle University Manila, Eastern Communications, FAEV Ventures Inc., Fast Freight, Hocheng Philippines Corp.; and Lorma College. They joined the 2025 Philippine Net Zero Conference where representatives from the private sector convened on Thursday to address barriers in operationalizing net zero goals.
Environment chief and former energy secretary Raphael Lotilla, in his keynote address, challenged the private sector to step up and act even more boldly as a catalyst for credible decarbonization.
“Government action alone is not enough. Real transformation requires strategic partnerships with private sector actors. We encourage companies to participate in reforestation and biodiversity programs, invest in renewable energy and energy efficiency, and collaborate with communities in nature-based adaptation
projects,” Lotilla said. He said the collaboration between the private and public sectors can significantly support the government target commitments outlined in the Philippine Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) in line with the Paris Agreement.
“The government, through DENR, will continue to provide policy direction and technical support. But scale and speed require bold business leadership,
At the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, we view ourselves as partners to businesses, communities, and local government units, helping to translate climate policies into actions that are credible, measurable, and profitable for both nature and the economy,” added Lotilla.
Sharon Garin, Department of Energy (DOE) secretary, said during the conference that her office will soon finalize a carbon credit policy for the power sector.
“Hopefully, we will finish it within the year. There is already a draft. This is for the energy sector only. It doesn’t cover the rest of the carbon credit universe.”
Representatives from the private sector convened in the 2025 Philippine Net Zero Conference at the SMX Aura last September 18 to address barriers to operationalizing net zero goals.
Banking&Finance
FINANCE Secretary Ralph G. Recto ordered all district collectors of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to defend integrity in revenue collection as he expects the agency to exceed its P1.06-trillion target this year and beyond.
At the BOC Collectors Conference last Thursday in Mactan, Cebu, Recto said it is crucial for the BOC to guard the country’s borders strictly and honestly.
“For a porous border punctures our coffers, creates revenue leaks and takes away funds that should have been rightfully spent for the future of our people,” the Finance chief said. This year, the BOC is tasked to collect P1.06 trillion, equivalent to about P3 billion a day.
In the first eight months of this year, the BOC has raised P622.468 billion, up by 1.31 percent year-onyear from P614.394 billion.
The BOC fell short by P23.1 billion in meeting its P939.694-billion revenue target last year, having collected only P916.674 billion.
During the meeting, Recto urged BOC collectors to come up with creative solutions to turn the BOC into a world-class customs agency. He said that the Department of Finance (DOF) will fully support the Bureau’s modernization tack and anti-corruption drive.
“When something illegal passes through, a livelihood is lost; when there is undervaluation, a classroom remains unfinished. That’s how crucial your job is for our people,” Recto said in Filipino.
Illustrating the real price of revenue leaks, Recto said a P36.7-million
revenue loss from 50,000 sacks of smuggled rice can buy 22,518 bags of fertilizer that can be used on 11.7 square kilometers of rice land.
A smuggled Bugatti Chiron, with an estimated revenue loss of P168 million, can fund the construction of 84 classrooms for public school students. A new Bugatti Chiron typically costs over $3 million, or approximately P170 million, according to a Google search.
Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno also issued to all district collectors his marching orders, which include conducting regular performance assessments with accountability for those who fail to meet targets.
Nepomuceno also ordered the eradication of the “white paper” culture, which he didn’t elaborate on, to “ensure transparency in all transactions.” He also ordered the strengthening of the customs care operations “to deliver efficient and consistent service.”
Nepomuceno further ordered that destruction of seized goods must be livestreamed via the YouTube platform. He said BOC personnel must undertake constant assemblies and open communication channels to ensure timely communication and reporting across all units.
The conference was attended by the district collectors of: the Ports of Aparri, Batangas, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Clark, Davao, Iloilo, Legaspi, Limay, Manila, San Fernando, Subic, Surigao, Tacloban, Zamboanga; the Manila International Container Port; and, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
of national and local IDs complicates the verification
CREDIT: SKYRO LENDING
THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) announced it has set aside about P1.9 billion in emergency loans for active members and pensioners heavily affected by the recent weather disturbances across the country.
A statement issued by the GSIS read the credit facility can be availed by more than 71,000 active members and pensioners residing in the following areas: Atok, Benguet; Parañaque City; Quintin, Pangasinan; the province of Sultan Kudarat; and, Taguig City. These areas were declared under a state of calamity due to the southwest monsoon (habagat), Intertropical Convergence Zone, and tropical storms “Crising,” “Dante” and “Emong.”
Qualified borrowers may avail of a loan worth P20,000, or up to P40,000 for those with an existing emergency loan. The loan can be paid in three years with an interest rate of 6 percent per annum and with no processing fee. The loan is also covered by redemption insurance, which deems the account fully settled in the event of the borrower’s death, provided payments are up to date.
Active members who are working or residing in the affected areas are eligible to apply if they have no due and demandable loan from the
MB may set aside large cuts if economy stays resilient
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
IF the country’s economic performance continues to be resilient, then the Monetary Board may not consider large policy adjustments as the key policy rates are already or very near the “sweet spot,” according to a central bank official.
During the Visayas leg of the Philippine Economic Briefing on Thursday, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Deputy Governor Zeno Ronald R. Abenoja said the central bank is looking at future inflation, core underlying inflation pressures and growth numbers.
“If growth numbers continue to be resilient, we don’t have to do big adjustments, but we will continue to
Atome, Maya
By VG Cabuag @villygc
SINGAPORE-based Neuroncredit Financing Co. Inc., the operator of Atome, a finance and lending operator in Southeast Asia, and Maya Bank Inc. have entered a P2.75 billion loan channelling partnership in the Philippines to extend loans and credit to Filipinos.
Maya Bank will power this loan channeling initiative, providing creditworthy Filipinos with greater access to financing, read a statement by the digital lender. The bank combines payments, savings, credit and deposits in one ecosystem for both consumers and enterprises.
According to,” Maya Bank President Angelo S. Madrid, the “collaboration leverages digital technology to bring fast, secure, and responsible financing into the hands of underserved customers, helping them build financial confidence and longterm resilience.” Madrid didn’t disclose the value of the deal.
“Together, we are expanding access to responsible, risk-managed, and transparent flexible payment options that make more products and services truly ‘Available-To-Me’ for millions of Filipinos. Since Day One,
GSIS, must not be on unpaid leave, have paid premiums in the past six months and must have no pending administrative or criminal case.
They must also maintain a net monthly take-home pay of at least P5,000 after deductions.
Old-age and disability pensioners may also avail of the program, provided that they retain at least 25 percent of their monthly pension after loan deduction.
Loan applications may be filed until October 5 in Quintin, Pangasinan; October 7 in Sultan Kudarat; October 10 in Atok, Benguet; October 27 in Parañaque City; and October 29 in Taguig City.
“We have relaxed the requirements for granting emergency loans. We now release them once a local sanggunian declares a state of calamity upon the recommendation of the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council,” GSIS Officerin-Charge President and General Manager Juliet Bautista said. Bautista said the application process has been made more secure and convenient, with most borrowers now submitting through digital platforms.
“Applications may be filed via the GSIS Touch mobile app. So far, 99.79 percent of applications are already submitted online,” Bautista added. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
THE DigiPlus Interactive Corp. announced last Thursday of entering into an agreement with the Tanco-led Philippine First Insurance Co. Inc. (PhilFirst) to introduce the country’s first surety bond program for online gaming players.
The program takes effect immediately, the company said.
The surety bond protects player balances of up to P1 million per player, without requiring customers to purchase a separate policy.
“DigiPlus is proud to be the first in the industry to roll out this level of consumer protection,” DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio H. Tanco said. “We are committed to putting our players first. With this surety bond, they can play confidently on BingoPlus, ArenaPlus and GameZone, knowing that their funds are safeguarded.”
For players, this means more peace of mind every time they log in, as long as their eKYC (electronic know-your-customer) information is up to date and they continue to play within the platform’s guidelines, the company said.
Players must be eKYC-verified,
do baby steps,” Abenoja said.
The economy expanded by 5.5 percent in the second quarter of this year from 5.4 percent in the first quarter. This growth sits at the lower end of the government’s revised growth target of 5.5 percent to 6.5 percent for this year.
Abenoja also explained that when inflation rose from about 3 percent to as high as 9 percent between 2021
and 2023, the BSP had to cool it down by increasing the policy rates “quite dramatically and very fast” by 450 basis points. But when core inflation seemed to have stabilized and was trending down in August 2024, the BSP began reducing interest rates.
“We know that this is an important indicator. Households plan their lending, their consumption. Businesses plan their expansion plans or their borrowing or their revolving funds for their operations,” Abenoja said.
This year, Abenoja said inflation is averaging around 1.7 percent, below the government’s target of 2 to 4 percent.
However, in the next two years, Abenoja said inflation will be back at the middle of the target at around 3.3 percent to 3.4 percent.
“And because of that, we may be near the appropriate interest rates, policy rates. So we are moving towards what we call ‘sweet
spot,’ where interest rates are at the right level to promote growth, but at the same time, control inflation,” Abenoja said.
The Monetary Board, the highest policy-making body of the BSP, reduced the Target Reverse Repurchase (RRP) Rate by 25 basis points to 5 percent. The interest rates on the overnight deposit and lending facilities were adjusted to 4.5 percent and 5.5 percent, respectively.
BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. earlier said that the 5-percent interest rate is the “Goldilocks rate,” which is neither too high nor too low.
“Based on the latest data, I think this puts us at our sweet spot for both inflation and output. The projected inflation rate over the next year or so is where we want it to be. Output is moving to where we think our capacity is,” Remolona has said.
The Monetary Board still has two more meetings left for this year—in October and December.
Atome’s mission has been to improve lives through greater financial access and technology, and this partnership with Maya Bank is a significant step forward in that journey in the Philippines,” Neuroncredit Financing Co. Inc. (Atome PH) President Christian E. Quiros said.
Started in Singapore in late 2019, Atome claims to be southeast Asia’s leading digital finance platform. It has expanded from being the region’s largest embedded financing provider to also offer cards, lending, insurance and savings products.
In 2024, Atome processed over $2 billion in gross merchandise volume in the region. Powered by merchant partnerships and growing consumer adoption, annualized volume already surpassed $4 billion in June 2025, with strong momentum heading into the year-end holiday season.
In the Philippines alone, Atome has served over 4 million buy now, pay later customers, the company said.
The companies said the initiative represents another milestone in building a more inclusive financial ecosystem in the Philippines, setting a strong foundation for technologydriven financial empowerment.
BUSINESS events have long been recognized as powerful platforms for economic growth, knowledge exchange, and international collaboration.
Yet, today, the conversation goes beyond immediate returns and short-term gains. The focus has shifted to legacies: long-lasting benefits that extend to society, the environment, and the economy.
This is the very essence of “Legacy 360: Business Events for a Sustainable Future” to be held on October 2 to October 3, 2025, in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
I’m honored to be invited to speak in this inaugural event that will bring together leaders, government officials, industry experts, and professionals across sectors to explore how business events can create value far beyond numbers.
More than just a conference, it offers a comprehensive experience that combines interactive main stage sessions, hands-on workshops, accredited training hours, and ample networking opportunities. The platform was designed to inspire professionals, businesses, organizations, and destinations to transform their models, foster long-term positive impacts, and build sustainable legacy ecosystems.
At its core, Legacy 360 rests on four key objectives:
have made at least one successful deposit, and be in good standing within the platform’s guidelines. Protection is in place immediately and applies automatically for all eligible players across BingoPlus, ArenaPlus and GameZone—all games of DigiPlus.
PhilFirst, also being chaired by Tanco and son Joseph Augustin L. Tanco as president, is the first Filipino insurance company in the Philippines, offering an array of non-life insurance coverage to individuals and corporations.
Established in 1906, PhilFirst provides insurance services for homes, motor vehicles, personal accidents, travel, liability, marine, engineering and bonds.
“At PhilFirst, we’re proud to bring our 119 years of insurance expertise into the digital entertainment space through this groundbreaking partnership with DigiPlus,” the insurer said.
“This surety bond is more than a product—it’s proof that PhilFirst is ready to safeguard customers wherever innovation takes them,” it said. VG Cabuag
1. Educate. As an educational platform for industry professionals and stakeholders to understand the power of legacy in events. Through knowledge-sharing sessions and best practice showcases, participants will be equipped with insights to drive growth and embed legacy thinking into their operations.
2. Advocate. The event also champions the cause of meaningful legacies across sectors. By advocating for sustainability and inclusivity, Legacy 360 will inspire organizations and destinations to reimagine themselves as legacyfocused hubs, i.e., places where events are designed to leave a lasting positive imprint.
3. Advance. Recognizing the role of technology in shaping the future, the event highlights digital innovation as a tool to accelerate legacy efforts. From data collection to monitoring and validation, the event underscores the importance of adopting advanced technologies to ensure accountability and scalability of impact.
4. Recognize. The event puts a spotlight on those already making a difference. Through recognition and celebration, it amplifies the contributions of individuals, organizations, and initiatives creating meaningful, lasting change through business events.
A major highlight of the event is the launch of the Borneo Inspires Legacy Awards (BILA), a premier biennial program that honors outstanding contributions in the global business events sector. Aligned with Business Events Sarawak’s Legacy Impact Initiative, Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), the awards embody the very spirit of legacy-driven impact. The BILA celebrates conventions and exhibitions that have intentionally created measurable social, economic, and environmental outcomes. The awards has four subcategories: social, environmental, and economic, alongside an honorary category that recognizes events addressing all three pillars. Unlike traditional awards, the BILA is not about ranking winners as first, second, or third; rather, recognition is based on the scope of impact across these critical dimensions. By creating a space where education, advocacy, innovation, and recognition converge, Legacy 360 sets a new benchmark for the business events industry. It moves the conversation away from measuring success solely by delegate numbers or revenue, and instead emphasizes sustainable transformation and collective progress. Its message is clear: the true legacy of business events lies in the positive, sustainable footprints they leave behind.
Octavio Peralta is
Octavio Peralta
A ssociation World
LENDING IDENTITY This undated photo courtesy of Skyro Lending Inc. shows SLI Chief Technology Officer Lei Chen (middle) and IDfy Technologies Philippines Inc. Chief Business Officer Wriju Ray (leftmost) during the Manila Tech Summit 2025 held last month. According to one of SLI’s executives (not in the photo), one of the key challenges in lending in the Philippines “is establishing trust and identity” and that the “fragmented ecosystem
process.”
INC.
Relationships
‘Adolescence,’ ‘Evan Hansen,’ and the crisis of growing up
FOR months, I had been postponing watching the limited series Adolescence on Netflix.
And while Stephen Graham is one of the most accomplished UK actors whom I admire—he leads the cast of the series—I knew it was going to be heavy material. The 13-year-old son of Eddie Miller, Graham’s character, is accused of murder. Do we believe the cops who arrest him? Or do we believe the son, Jamie, who protests his innocence?
Inevitably, the series wins Primetime Emmy awards for both Graham for Best Lead Actor in a Limited Series, and Owen Cooper (Jamie) for Best Supporting Actor in a Limited Series. Adolescence also wins an Emmy for Best Limited or Anthology Series, Best Writing (Graham and Jack Thorne), Best Directing, and Best Supporting Actress.
But it was the young actor Owen Cooper who finally piqued my curiousity, and eventually pushed me to watch the series. At just 15 years in age, Cooper beat out more experienced actors such as Javier Bardem (Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story), Rob Delaney (Dying for Sex), Peter Sarsgaard (Presumed Innocent), and his Adolescence co-star Ashley Waters (Det. Insp. Luke Bascombe). What a feat!
And a well-deserved win, as I eventually found out. Cooper plays an innocent teen so convincingly that I was still rooting for him at some point. I kept thinking there may be some other plausible explanation for the murder charge against him, yes, even if earlier on his father already watched a video of the (spoiler alert!) stabbing of his classmate.
I’ve been a long-time fan of crime shows, like Law and Order, so I’ve been used to expect a different ending from what has been laid out in the cases at the beginning of these shows. But Jamie’s cute
and innocent disposition eventually gives way to a terrifying monster, so arrogant in his display of anger, along with a threatening demeanor, that it actually frightens the psychologist Briony Aniston (played by Erin Doherty), who has been assigned to prepare a pre-trial report on his case.
The series’ title is very apt. It shows the vulnerabilities of adolescents in the age of social media. They can be exposed to extremist groups of thought. Even if parents have the best intentions at heart, and think they have reared their children well enough, the environment in which their young children live or try survive in do not always dictate the best of outcomes.
A similar story about our troubled youth is depicted in Dear Evan Hansen, one of my favorite musicals that is currently playing onstage at The Theatre at Solaire Resort in Parañaque.
While there were uneven performances in the cast, this UK touring company, in general, still hits the right notes. Ellis Kirk, who plays Evan, was quite sympathetic as the high-school senior—jittery, lonely and friendless—who gets caught in a wave of lies.
Due to a therapist-required letter to himself, which is unwittingly read and pocketed by his schoolmatebully Connor Murphy (Rhys Hopkins), Evan is thought to be the latter’s best friend. The printed-out letter is discovered by Connor’s parents in his pocket, after their son takes his life.
And so this discovery thrusts the socially-anxious and shy Evan into the limelight and a flurry of activities, which involve him to trying to keep up the lie that he and Connor were BFFs. He even co-opts his “family friend” Jared (Tom Dickerson) to write more “letters” between Evan and Connor, even as Evan starts to spend more and more time with the latter’s family, especially Connor’s sister Zoe, on whom he has a crush.
In spending more time with the Murphys, Evan now ignores his hard-working mom (Rebeca McKinnis), his personal misunderstood cheerleader. Like all moms, Heidi Hansen just wants the best for her son, and continues to encourage him to deal with his mental health issues. She suffers for struggling to keep a balance between tending to Evan’s needs and going to work as a nurse’s aide daily, while studying to become a para-legal at night. With her tight schedule,
Taco Tuesday is cancelled, for instance, leaving Evan on his own and fending for himself.
Evan’s fake life and words about Connor go viral on social media, before these are eventually torn down months later when he confesses the truth about not being Connor’s friend. Unlike Adolescence, however, there is redemption for Evan, and the tone of the musical ends on a hopeful note.
In both pieces, one cannot help but feel heartbroken for the billions of Millennials and Gen-Zs, who may find themselves without direction despite the love and attention poured on them by parents. Unlike the generations before them, the youth today have very little coping skills against bullying, social and peer pressures, and negative social media influences.
According to a Unicef Philippines Country Report in 2022, titled Strengthening Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Systems and Services: “Children and adolescents [aged 0–18 years] experience a high burden of poor mental health in the Philippines. One in eight adolescents aged 10 to 19 years and one in 17 children aged five to nine years are estimated to have a mental disorder [including developmental disorder]. Suicide is the fourth-leading cause of death among adolescents aged 15 to 19.”
The report cited that the risk factors for poor mental health include “exposure to violence, peer victimization, bullying, loneliness and social isolation, particularly in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic....”
And as what’s depicted in Adolescence and Dear Evan Hansen, it’s not that parents are not trying, it’s that many of them probably don’t even know what to do to. They wrestle with all sorts of ways in trying to understand and communicate with their troubled children. I remember my own parents having a tough time in keeping my eldest brother on the straight and narrow. Yet even with the help of counselors, they struggled. (He eventually turned the corner when he reached his late 40s.)
So I weep—not just for our anxious, stressed youth, but for their overburdened, trying-to-keepsane parents as well. There is no one-size-fits-all solution; do you stick it out and just keep at things, as in the case of Evan’s mother Heidi? Or in the case of Adolescence’s father Eddie, just let go and let
By Eugenia Last
GEMINI
CANCER (June 21-July 22): How you approach people will be the deciding factor in what you receive in return. A positive attitude and energetic response will earn you the favor and support you need to advance your position, agenda or prospects. Be open to suggestions and willing to share, and something good will transpire. Avoid unnecessary expenses or purchases. ★★★
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Avoid temptation. Verify information before entering a joint venture or signing up for something that may not deliver what you expect. Time is on your side; slow down, gather the facts and consider how to make the most of what you already have. ★★★
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Keep an open mind, but stick to the script that works best for you. When you feel unsure, step away and conduct your research. Let your intuition guide you when dealing with suspicious information, and reach out to someone trustworthy to verify the facts. ★★★
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Express your thoughts, gather information from experts and align yourself with people heading in a similar direction. The connections you make will be helpful moving forward. Invest more time and effort into your surroundings, comfort and convenience, and you will increase your awareness of how to achieve your desired lifestyle. Romance is favored. ★★★★
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Finish what you start. Focus on doing the best job possible, and take a responsible attitude when dealing with institutions and authority. Distance yourself from those trying to wreak havoc or bring about changes that can be disruptive to your life and prospects. ★★★★
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): When in doubt, step aside and become a spectator. What you learn will be valuable and help you when it is time to act. Focus inward, make personal gains, build confidence and expand your knowledge to help you achieve your dreams. What you start now will lead to higher income, a better position and greater prosperity. ★★
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You can’t buy love, but you can protect yourself from those trying to take advantage of you. Ask questions, be a good listener and look for signs that offer insight into other people’s intentions. Commit to nothing, refrain from sharing personal information and protect your reputation. ★★★★★
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Pay attention to money, contracts and health issues. Take responsibility, ask questions and adopt a proactive approach to ensure you receive the best possible advice. Leave nothing to chance or up to someone else. The time you spend going through the process of elimination will spare
Show BusinessMirror
Fonda, DiCaprio, Streisand and more mourn the death of Robert Redford
HOLLYWOOD figures and fans of the movies mourned the death of Robert Redford, expressing affection and admiration for the actor, Oscar-winning director and Sundance Film Festival founder.
Actor Colman Domingo said Redford had an “everlasting impact” on movies and director Ron Howard called his Sundance Film Festival a “game changer.” Reservation Dogs director Sterlin Harjo said Redford empowered filmmakers. Redford died on Tuesday “at his home at Sundance in the mountains of Utah—the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved,” publicist Cindi Berger said.
The marquee of the Egyptian Theater in Park City, Utah, was changed on Tuesday to read: “Applause for Bob Redford! Thank you Sundance Kid!” Here’s a roundup of some notable reaction to Redford’s death and his legacy:
n Jane Fonda: “It hit me hard this morning when I read that Bob was gone. I can’t stop crying. He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way. He stood for an America we have to keep fighting for.”—in a statement.
n Leonardo DiCaprio: “It was a huge loss to our community. Not only was he an incredible actor—we all know his work—but his ability, as a director too, films, like Quiz Show. He was one of the first guys to do political thrillers—Three Days of the Condor, All the President’s Men—...he paved the way for films like this but more so than anything, he was a staunch environmental leader and was a member of the NRDC, like me, and fought for Indigenous rights—the list goes on and on. We lost a legend today.”—in an interview with The Associated Press.
n Jason Bateman: “He’s always been an inspiration for me, as I’m sure he is for many, many other actors, but also just in the way that he turned his set experience as an actor into being a really accomplished director, as well, and all the philanthropic stuff he did. I would love to live as long as he had and accomplish all the things that he’s done and be as respected as he was. What a life.”—in an interview with the AP.
n Barbra Streisand: “Every day on the set of The Way We Were was exciting, intense and pure joy. We were such opposites: he was from the world of horses; I was allergic to them! Yet, we kept trying to find out more about each other, just like the characters in the movie. Bob was charismatic, intelligent, intense, always interesting—and one of the finest actors ever. The last time I saw him, when he came to lunch, we discussed art and decided to send each other our first drawings. He was one of a kind and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with him.”—on Instagram.
n Martin Scorsese: “Bob was a unique artist, in front of and behind the camera. He was also a dedicated member of The Film Foundation board, and he gave the world of American cinema something irreplaceable and lasting with Sundance. It saddens me to know that I won’t be seeing him again. And I’ll never forget my time with him.”—in a statement.
n Ethan Hawke: “Robert Redford, our ultimate champion of independent film, relentless advocate for authentic storytelling and fiercely passionate environmentalist. Robert’s legacy remains ingrained in our culture, transformed by his artistry, activism and the founding of Sundance Institute and Film Festival.”—on Instagram.
n Marlee Matlin: “Our film, CODA, came to the attention of everyone because of Sundance. And Sundance happened because of Robert Redford. A genius has passed. RIP Robert.”—on X.
n Ron Howard: “#RIP & thank you Robert Redford, a tremendously influential cultural figure
not only cared about the environment, but he took all conceivable actions to protect it.”—on Instagram.
n Kerry Washington: “He was not just a visionary who transformed American cinema, he was a generous and kind soul who taught those of us in his orbit, endless lessons about art, culture, nature, storytelling, fame and family.”—on Instagram
n Reese Witherspoon: “What an incredible artist and champion for art, culture and independent film. I will be forever grateful for my days at Sundance & the Sundance filmmakers lab where I learned so much from so many fellow filmmakers. Thank you Robert Redford for sharing your passion for movies with so many of us.”—on Instagram.
n Samuel L. Jackson: “It was a dream come true to work on screen with Mr. Redford. Sometimes your heroes don’t disappoint & truly are as Great as you imagined.”—on Instagram.
n Topher Grace: “To this day, I’ve never met a bigger icon, nor someone more open in sharing their wisdom. This is his legacy—from a one-on-one dinner, to the thousands empowered by the Sundance Film Festival and Sundance Institute, to the millions moved by his films—we should all be grateful for the time we had with him.”—on Instagram.
n Octavia Spencer: “From Butch Cassidy to
BGYO heads to their first solo concert prepared, to release
By Patrick Villanueva
IT’S another win for P-pop as Star Magic’s 5-member boy group BGYO is set to make strides by having their first solo concert at the New Frontier Theater on October 4. This is a dream come true for the quintet— composed of Gelo, Akira, JL, Mikki, and Nate—as they have worked tirelessly to get their solo concert. Still, they admit that it could get overwhelming when you’re in front of many people.
“For us, normal naman kasing kabahan or matakot...pero, ang pinaka key dyan is preparation,” Gelo shared when asked about how they face stage fright. “Kasi kapag prepared ka, automatic na ‘yan sa katawan mo kahit kabahan ka.” Mikki jokingly admitted they also slap each other to get rid of nerves. Nakakatulong para mawala ‘yung kaba is naghahamapasan kami sa likod,” he said.
Nate revealed they have long, intense rehearsals to prepare for their solo concert, making plenty of adjustments to ensure that they are ready mentally and physically. Meanwhile, Akira said that fans should look forward to their preparations on the stage. BGYO has also worked with many artists throughout the years, with some they witnessed how they pulled off successful concerts. More so, the group also has their fair share of experiences, especially getting plenty of appearances in mall shows and music festivals.
With that, they plan to bring these learnings to ensure that their first solo concert ultimately become a success. “ pinaka napulot talaga namin is teamwork, focus,” Gelo shared. JL, on the other hand, shared how excited he is on performing their old songs with their current experience as artists. “Matagal na naming hindi naperform talaga. Nakaka-excite lang mapakita special to us. It shows
producer, and founder of the Sundance Festival. His talent will continue to move us forever, shining through the frames and in our memory. RIP.”—on X.
n Mark Ruffalo: “This is what a real American Hero looks like. A man who brought people together, lived and practiced empathy, and created good and useful organizations that made peoples lives better and included anyone who had an interest. Please remember him well.”—on Instagram.
n Morgan Freeman: “There are certain people you know that you’re going to click with. After working with Robert Redford on Brubaker in 1980, we instantly became friends. Working with him again in An Unfinished Life was a dream come true. Rest peacefully, my friend.”—on Instagram.
n James Gunn: “I grew up with his movies: his quiet, unforced performances and ever-present grace. He was THE movie star, and will be greatly missed.” on Instagram.
n Colman Domingo: “With love and admiration. Thank you Mr. Redford for your everlasting impact. Will be felt for generations. R.I.P.”—on X.
n Cary Elwes: “There weren’t that many towering legends that loomed large in our home growing up as a kid but Robert Redford was certainly one of them.”—on Instagram. AP
SCAMMED THE actor was paid by a brand to appear at an event, at the end of which everyone realized that he seemed to be in a bad mood. It was later discovered that he felt he was shortchanged and not paid well for that engagement. This is not new for the actor (who is known for having a bit of an attitude problem) but this time, he was right. He was indeed shortchanged. The culprit was allegedly someone he worked closely with. And that’s not all. The incident was like a Pandora’s box. That person was also discovered to have allegedly defrauded a super popular starlet. How that person thought they could get away with large-scale fraud is puzzling in this day and age.
POETIC
JUSTICE?
IT might be poetic justice that the relative of these two online celebrities has reportedly been relieved of his post at a “lucrative” government spot. What happened was not a direct result of the controversy involving these online celebrities but a normal occurrence at that particular office. But it seems to have fulfilled a specific purpose—that of making sure their seemingly never-ending access to cash is stopped. So the online celebrities are being very low-key for now.
NOT NICE
THE actress is known for being nice, kind and generous, and through the years this is an image she has sustained. During a not-so-recent event though, she was caught rolling her eyes at an actor who is considered her son’s rival. Said actor did not do anything wrong. He was at the event to fulfill a promise, one which was unpaid. But the actress felt that he should not have been there for reasons known only to her and so she walked out.
KEEPING A LOW PROFILE
SINCE the recent lifestyle checks by the public on people related to those in government, the celebrity has only posted social media that proves she is working and not spending money. In fact, she even went on a short social media break and when she came back, her posts aren’t about bragging anymore. Instead, these posts show her as a hardworking person. She probably hired a PR person or firm to try and clean up her image, but someone who works with her did some bragging again so it’s kind of back to square one.
SPARKLE ARTISTS EMBARK ON COLLEGE JOURNEY WITH THAMES INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
SPARKLE’S rising stars have taken a major step toward academic excellence as they formally began their college journey with Thames International School. The milestone was marked in a casual contract-signing event held on September 9 at the Thames ESA Hub in Quezon City. Present at the signing were Sparkle executives Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, GMA Network senior vice president; Joy Marcelo, Sparkle first vice president; and Jenny Donato, assistant vice president for talent recruitment and development. They were joined by Joel Santos, president, CEO, and co-founder of Thames International; and Dr. John Lagdameo, Thames Academic director, in celebrating this new partnership between Sparkle and the international business school. The first batch of “star students” consist of Zonia Mejia, Alethea Ambrosio, Kimson Tan, Mark Oliveros, Mad Ramos, Akira Kurata, Winston Stolk, Ralph Miaco, David Bunagan and Neathan Tan. These artists expressed their commitment to balance their careers with their studies, embracing the excellence, connectedness and flexibility that Thames International offers. This collaboration shows Sparkle’s dedication to fostering the personal and professional development of its artists, helping them shine both onscreen and in their educational pursuits.
FROM left: Joy Marcelo, Sparkle’s first vice president; Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, GMA Network senior vice president; Joel Santos, president, CEO, and co-founder of Thames International; and Dr. John Lagdameo, Thames Academic director.
Mondelēz International Clinches Back-to-Back Wins at HR Asia, HR Excellence Awards 2025
Mondelēz International in the Philippines is celebrating another banner year in its people agenda, taking home multiple honors at two of the region’s most prestigious award giving bodies: the HR Asia Awards and the HR Excellence Awards.
For the sixth consecutive year, Mondelēz International has been named one of the Best Companies to Work for in Asia, earning the coveted Gold Harmonia Award. This follows its induction into the HR Asia Hall of Fame in 2024, a milestone granted to organizations that achieve the honor five years in a row. This distinction also reflects how the company has consistently scored above benchmark in the HR Asia Survey, standing out among participating organizations across the region.
“This recognition is not just a trophy for us, but a reflection of the people who make Mondelēz International truly special,” says April Valencia, Country People Lead of Mondelēz International. “This award is proof of a culture that fosters growth, inclusivity, and collaboration, where every colleague can thrive.”
The company also celebrated victories at the HR Excellence Awards 2025, with a Silver Award for Excellence in CrossGenerational Workforce Engagement and a Gold Award for Excellence in Talent Acquisition. These recognitions shine a spotlight on how Mondelēz International continues to build a workplace where diversity is celebrated and every generation feels empowered.
With nearly 500 employees across Millennials, Gen X, and Gen Z generations,
The Mondelēz International People Team in the Philippines the company has made it a priority to design policies and programs that resonate across life stages. This includes flexible working arrangements such as hybrid work, enhanced parental leave for primary caregivers and solo parents, and inclusive facilities like all-gender restrooms and lactation rooms.
The organization also provides avenues for employees across generations to directly collaborate with leaders, while mental wellbeing initiatives such as its Thrive program supports employees in navigating fast changing and complex environments. These actions demonstrate a commitment to making every voice heard and ensuring that the workplace adapts to the evolving needs of its people.
A cornerstone of this achievement has been the implementation of robust leadership programs, such as the Leadership Council, which plays a crucial role in shaping the company’s culture. This council has been instrumental in promoting a culture of inclusivity, collaboration, and high performance, empowering employee leaders to contribute meaningfully to the organization’s goals.
“At Mondelēz International, we know that building a great place to work means meeting the evolving needs of talent across generations,” adds Shine Rodriguez, SEA Talent Acquisition Lead. “From flexible work to inclusive policies, we’re committed to creating an environment where people feel valued and inspired to grow. This win is a celebration of the best practices of our own people. It is an authentic showcase of how we work and our culture in Mondelēz International. It’s this talent-centric approach that continues to make us an employer of choice in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia.”
Building on last year’s triple win at the HR Excellence Awards — Gold for Workplace Culture, Gold for Employee Advocacy and Brand Ambassadorship, and Bronze for Women Empowerment Strategy — Mondelēz International cements its reputation as a people-first company. Beyond its iconic brands like Cadbury Dairy Milk, Oreo, Tang, Eden, Cheez Whiz, Toblerone, and Tiger, the company’s true success lies in its people: a diverse, empowered, and engaged team shaping the future of snacking.
Power Mac Center to hold electrifying launch for ADAM elements
as recognized by global design awards including the prestigious Red Dot Award (Germany).
“ADAM elements is a long-time partner of Power Mac Center, growing with us in every season, trend, and innovation. We share a mission to bring the best of Apple technology to customers, encouraging their passions and productivity pursuits with high quality devices and accessories. Apart from personal use, the products make great gifts or stocking stuffers in time for the holidays, too,” said PMC Director for Marketing and Product Management Joey Alvarez.
Here’s a little sneak peek at what to expect during the event.
Making a grand entrance is the ADAM elements Mag
360 Qi2 3-in-1 Foldable Charging Station, a proud Red Dot Design Award 2025 Winner for its “thoughtful design and intuitive usability.” It features Qi2 Certified dual 15W fast charging capabilities, a 360° rotating dock, and sleek fabric finish in a travel-ready gizmo. With its strong magnetic alignment, you can instantly snap and charge a MagSafe-enabled iPhone, AirPods, or Apple Watch.
For Mac and iPad users, check out the Hub Stand USB-C 5-in-1 Laptop Stand Hub. It features a 5-in-1 multifunction hub (USB-C for 100W Power Delivery, HDMI for Mirror / Extended Display, and three USB-A ports) in an ergonomic adjustable stand that helps users have better posture and increased productivity. This innovation has received numerous design awards including the GOOD DESIGN Award, Red Dot Design Award, and iF DESIGN Award.
Do drop by the event to explore these accessories
La Jolla Hotel and Beach Resort Joins 2025 World Clean Up Day
firsthand, as well as the GRAVITY C5 Ultra-Slim Magnetic Power Bank 5000mAh, GaN Hub 65W 5-in-1 Hub Charger, and MS200 USB-C Magnetic Cable 2M, among others. On top of their portability and premium design, products come with up to three years’ warranty, ensuring peace of mind with every purchase.
The “Plug Into Power” event space at the South Court of Power Plant Mall will be outfitted with booths allowing customers to experience ADAM elements’ products for work. Visitors can play games for a chance to take home exclusive merchandise and products for free!
Early holiday-shopping customers can also enjoy exclusive promotions, including up to 40 percent off on select ADAM elements products available this weekend at the event area. Meanwhile, Apple fans can join the fun nationwide and enjoy up to 30 percent off on select ADAM elements products at all Power Mac Center stores until September 30, 2025.
Power Mac Center is the premier Apple partner in the Philippines, which just celebrated its 31st anniversary. It has stores, service centers, and training centers in all regions of the country, carrying the widest range of Apple devices and accessories, as well as premium accessories from partner brands. To be updated on the latest news and updates, follow the official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok, as well as the official Viber and YouTube channels. Also check out ADAM elements on Facebook (ADAM elements Philippines) and Instagram (@ adamelements_ph).
Novo Nordisk Philippines, Watsons Philippines partner for obesity screening
LEADING global healthcare company Novo Nordisk is stepping up efforts to curb the climbing obesity incidence in the country as it recently formalized its partnership with Watsons Philippines to make obesity screening services closer to the public.
Under the partnership, Novo Nordisk and Watsons will be providing obesity screening. The screening services will initially be offered across 18 Watsons stores nationwide, with trained healthcare providers on-site to conduct the assessments and offer advice to customers.
For the complete list of participating outlets and schedule, follow Watsons Philippines’ official social media pages.
The initiative aims to promote early detection, prevention, and management of obesity and obesity related diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
According to the Food and Nutrition Research Institute, 39 percent of Filipino adults or about four of 10 Filipinos aged 20 to 59 are living with obesity.
“Obesity can greatly affect a person’s quality of life, which is why we at Novo Nordisk, in partnership with Watsons Philippines, are committed to raising the awareness and understanding of the public about obesity. Through the screening initiative, we aim to make screening for obesity more accessible, provide a more comprehensive assessment of a person’s obesity risk, and guide them in taking control of their well-being,” said Novo Nordisk Philippines General Manager Wei Sun.
This initiative also forms part of Novo Nordisk’s Truth About Weight campaign, which raises awareness, combats stigma, and promotes informed, science-based
approaches to obesity care. Novo Nordisk is also conducting healthcare professional training through the BEAT Obesity program to equip doctors and allied health experts with updated knowledge on obesity management, while rolling out a consumer education campaign to empower Filipinos to better understand obesity as a chronic disease and seek proper medical support.
Novo Nordisk’s collaboration with Watsons Philippines is part of the healthcare company’s strategy to bolster partnerships with various organizations to reinforce the fight against obesity in the Philippines. For Watsons, “partnering with Novo Nordisk strengthens our commitment to making preventive care more accessible and affordable. By offering free obesity screenings in our stores, we empower families with the knowledge and tools to take control of their health and live healthier lives. In Watsons we believe good health should be within reach for every Filipino,” said Joweeh B. Liao, Watsons Philippines Director for Health Business Unit, Finance, and Property Development.
Beyond this initiative, Watsons continues to strengthen its role as a health partner for the community. With over 1,200 stores nationwide, many with extended hours and an expanding number of 24/7 outlets, Watsons ensures access to care anytime, anywhere. Customers can also order through the Watsons app, enjoy threehour medicine delivery, or pick up in-store for added convenience. These services are designed to support busy individuals and families in managing their health.
Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria Celebrate ‘Giving
CROWNE Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria, proud members of the IHG Hotels & Resorts family, continue to uphold their commitment to creating positive change through impactful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs under IHG’s global “Journey to Tomorrow” and “Giving for Good” initiatives.
In line with IHG’s Giving for Good Month, a global initiative every September where IHG colleagues around the world come together to give back to their communities, the two iconic hotels conducted a CSR outreach activity at Tahanan ng Pagmamahal in Pasig City, a shelter for abandoned and neglected children.
Hotel teams gathered in-kind donations and volunteered on-site to deliver care packages and engage with the children. This activity not only uplifts those in need but also reflects IHG’s mission of providing “True Hospitality for Good.”
In addition, the hotel teams also successfully donated essential pet care items to the Quezon City Animal Care and Adoption Center, directly supporting 30 dogs, 10 puppies, four cats, and one kitten currently housed at the facility. Volunteers participated in a 30-minute pet training session, gaining valuable insights into the adoption process and reinforcing the hotels’ commitment to compassion for all living beings. The experience was both heartwarming and impactful, deepening employee engagement while promoting animal welfare.
In a separate initiative, the two iconic hotels partnered with the Pasig Immaculate Conception Cathedral Soup Kitchen to launch a meaningful Feeding Program led by Cluster Director of Human Resource Merceditas
for Good Month’
Santos. This brought together dedicated hotel staff and members of the local community to provide nutritious meals to those in need. The initiative reflects the hotels’ ongoing commitment to social responsibility, as team members volunteered their time and efforts to serve with care and compassion.
“At IHG, we believe that hospitality is more than just providing exceptional service— it’s about creating real, lasting impact in the communities we serve. Through our Giving for Good initiatives and sustainability programs, we empower our teams to make a difference, whether it’s by bringing joy to children in need or supporting animal welfare. I’m incredibly proud of our colleagues for embracing our Journey to Tomorrow and living out True Hospitality for Good every day,” said Patria Puyat, Cluster General Manager of Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria. These CSR activities align with IHG Hotels & Resorts’ “Journey to Tomorrow,” a 10-year action plan to drive positive change for people, communities, and the planet. As part of this vision, the hotels are dedicated to: championing environmental sustainability by reducing waste, conserving energy, and eliminating single-use plastics where possible; supporting community well-being through regular outreach, donations, and volunteerism; and empowering people by fostering an inclusive workplace culture and enabling staff to give back meaningfully. At Crowne
and Holiday
&
Novo Nordisk Philippines partners with Watsons Philippines for obesity screening roll out
The hotel teams donated essential pet care items to the Quezon City Animal Care and Adoption Center.
Motoring BusinessMirror
Here comes the all-new Suzuki Fronx Hybrid
by Randy S. Peregrino
AFTER previewing at the last Suzuki Matsuri 2025 in SM Mall of Asia, Suzuki Philippines (SPH) has officially launched the all-new Fronx. The latest model is the brand’s entry into the hotly contested subcompact crossover SUV segment in the country. Moreover, it is equipped with the manufacturer’s proprietary Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki (SHVS) technology, with the exception of the base variant GL. Now, the all-new Fronx joins the brand’s roster of mild hybrid models, representing the brand’s drive for sustainable mobility in the country.
Takashi Yokoyama, Chief Engineer of the Fronx, was present during the launch event and shared the story and passion behind the creation of the new model. “The Fronx is not only a stylish coupe SUV, but also one that provides comfort to bring smiles to everyone who rides in it. With ‘strength and beauty’ as our theme, we created a vehicle that shines both in the city and in nature,” he explained.
Coupe styling ACCORDING to Chief Engineer Yokohama, the design inspiration projects the strength and elegance of a thoroughbred horse; the design blends coupe-inspired sophistication with SUV ruggedness. Design highlights are the strong front face, double fender, strong shoulder line, and flowing character line.
Several exterior elements define the Fronx’s look. There are the segmented DRLs positioned high and also function as signal lamps. Another is the large front grille with chrome accents. Then the new split-type headlamps are positioned lower, eliminating the need for foglamps. Other exterior elements are the roof rail, fender garnish, shark fin antenna, rear upper spoiler, LED tail lamps, rear reflector, and front/side/rear skid plates.
The latest model also rolls on 16-inch polished alloy wheels wrapped in 195/65 series tires. The black roofline trim is exclusive to the GL and SGX two-toned variants. Dimension-wise, the vehicle measures 3,995 mm long, 1,765 mm wide, and 1,550 mm tall. The wheelbase is 2,250 mm with a ground clearance of 170 mm. Smart and modern
NOTABLE inside is the dual-tone Black and Burgundy cabin motif with nice ergonomics and a driver-centric dashboard layout. The leather-wrapped sporty seats feature seam lines and stitching. Highlighted at the center dash is the nine-inch HD touchscreen infotainment (GLX and SGX) with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity functions. The audio setup has six speakers. There is also wireless charging and USB ports.
Unique to the Fronx is the heads-up display (HUD) visible through driving line sight, displaying drive and energy flow information. Other interior elements are leather door sides (GLX and SGX), dashboard silver accents, air-con louver piano black finish, footwell lights, push start, automatic air-con, rear air vent with charging ports,
Tarmrest storage, and cupholders/pockets everywhere, among others.
SHVS technology
MOTIVATION comes from a mild hybrid system consisting of a new 1.5-liter K15C gasoline engine plus a 12-volt Hybrid
engine setup, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission (6AT). On paper, the power output is 99 hp and 134 N-m of torque. The belt-driven Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) motor provides an additional 2.2 kW of power to assist the engine. The electric juice comes from a
12-volt lithium-ion battery. Working as a power assist electric motor, the ISG generates additional power and torque during acceleration, aside from acting as the conventional alternator. Suzuki refers to it as the Torque Assist Function. In this case, the ISG helps the
and a monthly pay of only P10,365. A whopping discount of P100,000 discount awaits straight cash buyers, including the 2.4 GL Dropside DSL A/T. Toyota is also offering free periodic maintenance service (PMS) of up to 20,000km for Raize, Veloz and select variants of the Vios, Fortuner, Hilux, Innova and Avanza when bought within the promo period of September.
200k
discount awaits straightcash buyers. For the GR Yaris, 1.6 turbo A/T, it’s a steal at a P523,500 down payment and a monthly pay of only P35,500. If you pay cash, you get a P160,000 discount. The Tamaraw
Tamaraw variants LIKEWISE, all variants of the Tamaraw sold during the promo period are also qualified for the Service Discount Voucher of P1,200 (VAT inclusive), applicable to nine PMS from the 1,000KM to 40,000KM check-up. Customers may avail of the PHP 1,200 Service Discount Voucher within
months from the release date of the vehicle and is applicable to seven PMS from the 1,000-km to 30,000- km check-up.
Toyota is also accepting trade-ins for old models of Vios, Innova, Fortuner or Hilux for a new Corolla Cross HEV, a Yaris Cross HEV or a Zenix HEV, plus a rebate of P30,000.
Any brand trading for a Tamaraw will get a P20,000 rebate, which can be used also as cash discount when buying a new vehicle during the promo period or purchasing Toyota genuine accessories.
Toyota Insure
DURING the promo period, select Vios,
engine via a rubber belt. Meanwhile, the GL variant is equipped with a 1.5-liter K15B gasoline engine producing 77 hp and 138 N-M of torque, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission (4AT).
Suzuki Safety Support
EXCLUSIVE to the SGX variant is the Suzuki Safety Support Technology, the brand’s version of ADAS. This suite of advanced driver-assist features is Dual Sensor Brake Support II (DSBS II), Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitor, High Beam Assist, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Lane Keep Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Standard features include six airbags (driver, passenger, curtain, and side), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), an Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Hill Hold Control, and rear parking sensors with a camera. Combined with its reinforced body structure, these advanced safety features have earned the Dzire a prestigious 5-Star Global NCAP Safety Rating for Adult Occupancy, offering confidence and peace of mind on every drive.
Of course, the frame is built on a light yet highly rigid body derived from Suzuki’s new generation platform – HEARTECT, plus the Total Effective Control Technology (TECT).
Pricing and color
THE GL AT (4AT) variant retails at P1.059 million, while the GLX AT Hybrid (6AT) is at P1.219 million. The GLX AT Hybrid Two-Tone (6AT) retails at P1.229 million, while the
damage (OD), loss/theft, excess bodily injury (EBI), property damage (PD), acts of nature (AON), and includes emergency roadside assistance. All brand-new vehicles purchased at any Toyota dealership in the Philippines starting January 1, 2025, is also eligible for the Toyota 5-Year
top-spec SGX AT Hybrid Two-Tone (6AT) is at P1.299 million. Magma Gray Metallic (GL and GLX), Snow White Pear (GL and GLX), Savannah Ivory Metallic + Cool Black Pearl Metallic (SGX and GLX), Ice Grayish Blue Pearl Metallic + Cool Black Pearl Metallic (SGX and GLX), and Snow White Pearl + Cool Black Pearl Metallic (SGX).
Fronx and SHVS in action SPH recently hosted an experiential drive where 20 fresh top-spec SGX units were commissioned for the drive event. The destination was the heritage resort Las Casas Filipinas de Azucar in Bataan. As usual, to make the drive more engaging, SPH incorporated an eco-run challenge among participants. The goal was to have the least amount of fuel consumed in a 161-kilometer drive to the gasoline top-up station. Behind the wheel, the mild hybrid powertrain
car was impressively nimble with good steering feedback. Downshifting in lower gears squeezes more torque from higher engine rpms during climbs and overtaking. The sweet spot is at the midrange engine speed. Manually switching to 2nd and 3rd gears will enable the vehicle not to lose momentum. That also works on engine braking while the ISG regains battery power loss via the Brake Energy Regeneration. Further, the ISG’s engine auto-stop-start system (EASS) function felt smoother and quieter whenever the engine was revived instantly. But since the engine is off, so is the air-con compressor. That is something to keep in mind. Nevertheless, the function has a disabled switch. Indeed, the ISG is an engine assist, a lithium battery charger, a regenerative braking system, and an engine starter.
Like any other ADAS functions, Suzuki’s own version actively functions the same. Every feature provides signals to make sure we are within the lane, not veering away without signaling, and maintaining a safe distance from the car in front.
Ultra-thrifty
TO validate SHVS’s superior fuel efficiency, Suzuki Philippines organized an eco-run challenge. Throughout the drive, our team opted to do a real-world driving approach. Spirited whenever needed, pushing while climbing, and occasionally reaching highspeed limits. These tests were conducted to assess how the vehicle would perform rather than solely focusing on fuel efficiency. So, when we reached the gas station to top up, our assigned vehicle had consumed 7.61 liters (21.16 km/L) from a 161-kilometer drive. Now that is impressive.
Story & photos
IN front of Santuario de San Jose in in Las Casas Filipinas de Azucar
To the last drop…Alas Pilipinas!!!
By Aldrin Quinto
ALAS PILIPINAS continues to break barriers and reshape the narrative. Bryan Bagunas, Leo Ordiales, Marck Espejo and the rest of the Philippine team capped their rise from promise to prominence in the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship—not with a second victory, but with yet another inspired performance.
B efore a sold-out crowd at the MOA Arena, Alas Pilipinas dragged Iran into a grueling tug-of-war before getting edged out, 25-21, 21-25, 2517, 23-25, 20-22. Written off—even dismissed and derided by agitators—as mere participants rather than competitors, Alas Pilipinas provided further proof they belong on the world stage, hanging tough with global contender Iran in a two-hour and 22-minute battle of attrition.
For a moment, it seemed the Philippines had nailed it, with a Kim Malabunga block making it 22-18, sending the crowd into a frenzy. But Iran won a challenge on a net touch, dousing cold water on the momentum Team Melli seized control and secured the win with a block on an Espejo attack.
You know what is painful? It’s painful to lose this way,” said Alas Pilipinas coach Angiolino Frigoni. “It’s painful because the players were already happy, then we had to go back.” Bagunas showed the way again and came up with 22 points on 18 attacks, three blocks, and an ace, as the rising stars from Southeast Asia fought tooth and nail against the top Asian squad.
Belgians blast way past pool play in worlds
BBy Josef Ramos
ELGIUM added to Algeria’s woes with a 25-22, 25-20, 25-12 victory to top Pool F of the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship on Thursday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Oozing with confidence and tremendous firepower, the world No. 15 Belgians toyed with their No. 89 opponent’s fragile defense to wrap up their pool campaign with a 3-0 record.
“It is a big statement,” 22-year-old Ferre Reggers said. “Like we said after the game against Ukraine, we are here to stay and I think we showed it. We are really happy with the result and we will keep on fighting in this tournament.” Despite committing more unforced, 19-16, Belgium dominated the attack department, 44-33 and blocks at 10-1, as well as in service aces, 5-1, to send Algeria to its third straight loss.
Team captain Sam Deroo had 15 points—all kills—for Belgium.
We have some kind of momentum,” Reggers said. “It was really important to play this game full and start this game with the main squad.”
Tizit Farouk posted 10 kills and a block for Algeria. Finland came within closer to the round of 16 after beating South Korea, 25-18, 25-23, 17-25, 25-21, for a 2-1 record with six points in Pool C.
“I think today we will just be recovering if we advance,” Finland head coach Olli Kunnari said. “We did our job in the pool phase and hopefully our games continue.”
L uka Marttila put up a game-high 25 points on 22 attacks and three kill blocks to go along with 11 excellent receptions, while Jokela delivered 21 points built on 17 attacks, two kill blocks and two aces for Finland.
Antti Ronkainen contributed 10 points, all from the attack line, while Tyynismaa and Severi Savonsalmi added seven and six points, respectively. South Korea put up a gallant fight but finished their first world championship campaign since 2014 winless in three outings.
Hojin Shin carried the offense with 24 points on 22 attacks, one ace, and one block, laced with seven excellent digs. Hanyong Jeong added 16 points on 13 attacks, two kill blocks, and one ace, while Sungjin Lim had 13 points.
Ordiales came up with 21 points, 19 from attacks, while Espejo scored 15, with 12 attack points, for the Philippines’ valiant stand.
The match was so close, Iran had 63 attacks against the Philippines’ 62, and Alas Pilipinas topped the blocking department, 12-8.
“The good thing I saw is they are now more confident. Nobody was thinking that the team will be able to compete— but we competed,” Frigoni said. Iran marches on as the top-rated Asian squad in the Round of 16, after Japan—although ranked No. 7—fell by the wayside in pool play.
The Philippines, meanwhile, finishes its campaign with the stature of an emerging force.
A stirring conclusion to a breakthrough debut, as the team that started the tournament with the secondlowest rating in the 32-team field wound
ANA MARIE AGUILAR and Lucas Revilleza surged ahead in the 7-10 age division while Ralph Batican and Tashanah Balangauan reasserted their mastery of their respective classes in the Bacolod Junior Philippine Golf Tour Championship on Thursday. Aguilar, who finished second to runaway winner Denise Mendoza at Marapara last Tuesday, fired an 83 at the demanding par-70 Bacolod Golf and Country Club under sweltering heat to secure a seven-stroke lead over Faith Reosura in the girls’ youngest category.
Although Aguilar won’t be eligible for the Elite Junior Finals, having fallen short of the required minimum of threeevent participation, the Bacolod native remains determined to cap her campaign with a win on Friday.
“I chipped close to the hole and putted really well,” said the 9-yearold St. Scholastica Academy-Bacolod standout Aguilar, who displayed composure on the greens, while noting how the Binitin surface played slower compared to Marapara. “I’m very excited to win tomorrow, and I expect to shoot a lot of pars.”
Out to spoil her bid was Reosura, who, despite a 90, is aiming for a strong finish and an improvement on her thirdplace showing at Marapara.
Cagayan de Oro’s Francesca Geroy shot a 91 for third, virtually locking up
TD esigned for both potential triathletes and seasoned competitors, the race offers a unique mix of challenge and charm, set against the breathtaking backdrop of a tropical paradise. From a 1.5-km swim in Samal’s crystal-clear waters, a 40-km bike ride along scenic coastal roads to a 10-km run weaving through the island’s vibrant community and business districts, every part of the course showcases the island’s natural beauty and cultural warmth. B ut the event is not just about
up just a whisker short of the last 16.
Alas Pilipinas made history on Tuesday with a four-set victory over African champion Egypt, after a straight-sets loss to Tunisia.
Poriya Hosseim Khanzadeh Firouzjah and Ali Hajipour MoghadDam FaroUji had identical outputs of 22 points on 19 attacks for Team Melli.
Tunisia returns to R16
ADVANCING out of Pool A with Iran is Tunisia, which overpowered its continental rival Egypt, 25-19, 2518, 25-22.
Tunisia went 2-1 in pool play and emerges as the last African team standing in the tournament, while Egypt made an early exit with a 1-2 record.
Algeria is at the bottom of Pool F, led by Belgium, with Italy and Ukraine battling for the other Round of 16 spot.
Tunisia will look to improve on
the fourth and last Finals berth in the division set for September 30 to October 3 at The Country Club.
Leading the Vis-Min team to the Finals are Mendoza, Soleil Molde and Claren Quiño.
In the boys’ 7-10 class, Lucas Revilleza, who also finished second to Ethan Lago at Marapara, carded a gritty 73 to take a four-stroke lead over Lago, who struggled to a 78 in tougher conditions. James Rolida of Cagayan de Oro shot an 84 for third, with Tobias Tiongko and Shaqeeq Tanog turning in 87 and 90, respectively.
W hile Revilleza looked poised for a win to complete the final cast, Rolida and Tanog are aiming for nothing less than a victory to keep their slim hopes for a backdoor entry alive.
Revilleza, 8, bounced back from a forgettable performance at Marapara with a stellar showing at Binitin.
“My game wasn’t great in Negros, but it really improved here,” said the Rizal Memorial Colleges student. “Every aspect of my game clicked—driving, irons, pitching and putting.”
R alph Batican, meanwhile, put on another show in the boys’ 11-14 division, riding on a whopping 35-stroke victory at Marapara. He opened with a
its 16th place finish in the 2022 FIVB World Championship.
The teams that advanced through Pool A meet the top teams from Pool H, with Serbia, Brazil and Czechia disputing the two spots.
Elyes Karamosli had 14 points, all on attacks, while Ben Romdhane scored 14 and Ali Bongui chipped in with 13.
“From the start of this World Championship, we know that the match of Egypt will be decisive. So we prepared well for the match and we played very good in service and attack,” said outside hitter Oussama Ben Romdhane.
“That’s very good for us, (clinching the top seed). We don’t know if we will play against Serbia, Brazil or Czechia but we will prepare and play a good match to qualify for the next round,” he continued. S eifeldin Hassan Aly scored 12 and Ahmed Said Shafik had 10 points in Egypt’s final match.
sensational six-under 29 at the front, highlighted by an eagle on No. 5 and four birdies and finished with backto-back birdies from No. 15 for a solid eight-under 62.
The Bukidnon star posted an early 22-shot lead over Miguel Mesina heading into the final round of the 36hole tournament.
Mesina fumbled with an 84, while JM Sabroso carded an 88 for third.
personal victories—it’s about a collective leap forward.
Our efforts have always been deeply rooted in initiatives that spark a ripple effect of progress,” said Cary Lagdameo, president of Damosa Land Inc. “Through events like this, we not only celebrate athletic excellence but also aim to uplift the broader community—from tourism and hospitality to local businesses and grassroots development.”
At the heart of the event is Bridgeport, Damosa Land’s marine lifestyle development, which serves as the iconic venue for the race. With its scenic waterfront views and modern amenities, it underscores Samal’s potential as not just a neighbor to Davao City, but a world-class destination in its own right.
KENTO MIYAURA cherished the support of Filipino fans, even as Japan bowed out early in the first round of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
After losing their first two matches, Japan was eliminated from contention for the Round of 16. But late Wednesday, they ended their campaign on a high note with a dominant three-set victory over Libya.
For Miyaura, the unwavering support of the home crowd was invaluable.
“Even after losing a match, they tried to push us. They are so kind,” he said.
Japan’s exit in the opening round marked only the third time in the program’s history. Despite the early departure, the Ryujin Nippon players treasured the experience.
“P hilippine fans, every single game, they make it an amazing experience.
I’d like to say thank you for giving our team such a wonderful experience,” Miyaura added.
K RELZ GECOSALA stole the spotlight in the boys’ division while Ayl Gonzaga and Arissa Macapendeg matched his triple-title feat in the girls’ side, capping a thrilling weekend at the Cotabato City National Tennis Championships at the Cotabato City Sports Plaza.
Gecosala, a rising star from Midsayap, North Cotabato, capped off a dominant run in the 16-and-under division with a gritty 6-2, 4-6, 6-3 win over top seed Julius Otoc. He then stunned another top ranked player, Abdul Hameed Balt, 6-2, 6-2, to clinch the 18-and-under title and secure the MVP trophy in the boys’ division of the Group 2 tournament presented by Dunlop.
Gecosala later partnered with Thomas Calingasan in the 18-and-under doubles and edged out Mujahid Boloto and Sarin in a tense tiebreaker, 8-7(8), to complete his three-title romp in the weeklong event hosted by Mayor Bruce Matabalao. Go nzaga, representing Olongapo City, also emerged as a triple champion. She ruled the 14-and-under singles by dispatching Justine Gumbao, 6-3, 7-6(2), 6-1, then
He and Team Japan enjoyed the warmth and hospitality of countless Filipino fans at the fan zone following their third victory.
Looking ahead, Miyaura acknowledged that the team still has room for improvement. Today’s game was our best performance. I’m satisfied with how we played,” he said.
“But we cannot advance to the next phase of this tournament, and for that, we are not satisfied,” he concluded. Japan closed its Pool G campaign with a 1-2 record.
Libya’s Elmaaruug retires FOAD ELMAARUUG ended his career by bringing Libya back to the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship after 43 long years, closing his journey on Wednesday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The 42-year-old captain, the oldest player in the tournament, quietly played his final match against Japan before tying his sneakers together and hanging them on the net—a symbolic farewell to the national team he had led back to the world stage and to the sport he had loved all his life.
Before leaving the floor, Elmaaruug exchanged jerseys with Kento Miyaura, explaining that Japan’s left-handed star reminded him of his own son.
“I decided I would bring this jersey back home for him,” said Elmaaruug. “It’s true we lost, but this is just the beginning. I hope Libya will play stronger in the future, and I promise these faces will be seen in the next championship,” he added.
On the other side, Japan finally broke through with a straight-sets win, 25-20, 25-17, 25-12, closing its campaign on a positive note. It was a much-needed relief for the Ryujin Nippon, who entered the tournament with high expectations but were swept by Turkey and Poland in their first two games, ending their hopes of advancing.
J apan gave its fans inside the Big Dome something to celebrate, but Elmaaruug gave everyone a moment to remember—a farewell that marked not only the end of his journey, but also the beginning of a new chapter for Libyan volleyball. www.philippineswch2025.com
KRELZ GECOSALA (left) poses with her Cotabato City National Tennis Championships trophy with co-MVPs Arissa Macapendeg and Ayl Gonzaga and Deputy Mayor
PHOTO FOAD ELMAARUUG (top photo), the tournament’s oldest player, hangs his jersey at 43 years old as Kento Miyaura says it’s an amazing experience to play in the
WRITTEN off—even dismissed and derided by agitators—as mere participants rather than competitors, Alas Pilipinas provides further proof they belong on the world stage. NONIE REYES
