Manila Standard - 2025 April 21 - Monday

PNP: Que-Pabillo double murders good as ‘solved’

Mastermind to be named, charged within days—Marbil

By Vince Lopez and Maricel V. Cruz

PHILIPPINE

National Police chief General

Rommel Marbil yesterday declared as solved the abduction and murder of steel magnate Anson Que [a.k.a. Anson Tan and Congyuan Guo] and his driver, Armanie Pabillo.

By Rio N. Araja

He also said the PNP is set to unmask and file cases this week against the mastermind of the twin kidnap killings.

TTHE Department of Education has officially announced that public schools across the country would open classes for School Year 2025–2026 on June 16, 2025. This shift marks a return to the pre-pandemic school calendar, as outlined in DepEd Order No. 12, Series of 2025 issued last April 15, which was approved by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. in May last year.

By Vince Lopez,

“Case solved...This was not a random act of kidnap-for-ransom, but a calculated kidnap-for-hire operation,” the country’s top cop said even as he held back naming the supposed mastermind, who remains at large.

In a statement, Marbil lauded his organization for the swift resolution of the grisly killings, calling it a landmark breakthrough that underscores the police’s effectiveness in swiftly solving heinous crimes.

HE Philippine National Police (PNP) is reopening its investigation into the 2020 murder of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga.

Investigations revealed that Chinese national David Tan Liao, also known by aliases “Xiao Chang Jiang,” “Yang,” “Jianmin,” and “Michael Agad Yung,” who is now under police custody after voluntarily surrendering, orchestrated the crime at the mastermind’s behest.

His Filipino cohorts, Raymart Catequista and Richard Tan Garcia (alias Ricardo Austria David), were arrested in Roxas, Palawan, on April 18.

Earlier, the PNP confirmed that the two other Chinese nationals were being pursued for being “key figures” in the case.

The two suspects were allegedly present at the location where Que and Pabillo were held.

On Sunday, PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil said he ordered the reopening of the cold case after whistleblower Police Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza told the House Quad Committee that he helped carry out the killing at the behest of ex-PCSO general manager Royina Garma. Mendoza narrated before congressmen how Garma allegedly facilitated the PCSO official’s roadside assassination on July 30, 2020 by providing the necessary information about his schedule, details about his vehicle and the funding necessary to carry it out.

"They were also present during the time the victims were held inside the house. These two were with David Tan Liao himself. So aside from the two

The whistleblower also implicated incumbent National Police Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo in the planning of the murder.

Barayuga was a retired police general and lawyer who supposedly threatened to expose corruption within the PCSO shortly before he was shot dead in Mandaluyong City.

Garma, herself an ex-police Lt. Colonel, allegedly gained the top spot at the PCSO because of her in-

By Rex Espiritu

THE United States is deploying units of its NMESIS (NavyMarine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System) to the island province of Batanes as part of the

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE country’s oil firms are expected to increase diesel and gasoline prices by as much as P1.20 per liter on Tuesday to reflect movements in the world oil market.

Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry

annual joint military exercises between Filipino and American forces, commonly referred to as 'Balikatan,' which begins today.

THE legal counsel of Chinese businessman Tony Yang sought to disparage lawmakers’ conclusions about his client’s supposedly sketchy past and his alleged ties with Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs) and even organized crime.

According to the Hawaii-based 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment, an undisclosed number of NMESIS

Lawyer Raymond Fortun questioned the House Quad Committee’s impartiality and its ability to pin Chinese national Yang down for ay wrongdoing in a real criminal court.

“I am very interested in how they [Quad Comm members] can prove this criminal network in court. In Congress, lawmakers act as both prosecutor and judge,” he said.

Unioil Philippines said Saturday that diesel and gasoline prices are projected to go up by P1 to P1.20 per liter due to the volatility in global oil prices. Department of Energy Oil Industry Management Bureau

Yang, who already admitted having a fake Philippine birth certificate, is the brother of Michael Yang, a presidential economic

adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Fortun, a lawyer who often finds himself at the center high-profile cases, apparently sought to mock congressmen, calling their probe “unacceptable.”

launchers will be transported by air to various locations across Batanes, lying approximately 150 kilometers from the southernmost tip of

However, House members argued they did not come by their suspicions about Yang recklessly.

On Friday, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga and Deputy Speaker David Suarez of Quezon presented a matrix showing Yang’s first appearance and his subsequent activities at the Quad Comm hearing.

(OIMB) Director Rodela Romero said on Friday that based on fourday trading, the pump price of gasoline will increase by P0.90 to P1.30 per liter, diesel by P0.85 to P1.35 per liter, and kerosene by P0.90 to P1 per liter.

“We saw a pattern, and we tracked it to the top of these corporations... we stripped it of its layers , to get to the top and through it all, we have discovered and identified at least two main actors or players in the issue

By Darwin Amojelar

Bautista denied an online news report claiming that Malacañang was angry with the increase in airport fees without the approval of the Cabinet members.

“The Bilyonaryo article is mali cious and unfounded,” Bautista said in a Viber message, referring to the website that published the said story. “Bilyonaryo is inconsistent,” he added. Bilyonaryo reported online that “Bautista and his long-time protege in Philippine Airlines, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Bobby Lim, are at the center of the storm after it was

Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal

Philippine Navy debunked on Sunday the recent announcement by China that it conducted military exercises off Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, in the West PhilipChina reportedly made the announcement coinciding with the fourth Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity between the Philippines, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States within Manila’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the regional waters over the weekend. Philippine Navy Spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vin -

‘Fake

being weaponized by pro-Duterte groups’

By Maricel V. Cruz

also available for utilization by the DSWD, including P123 million which can be allotted as Quick Response Fund (QRF) in the central office of the DSWD. In Batanes, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) advised residents to secure their roofs and install window shutters as Typhoon Julian is expected to make landfall

LAWMAKERS denounced the “weaponization of disinformation” through fake pro-Duterte social media accounts, warning that the coordinated digital campaign is undermining Philippine democracy ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.

“This is digital warfare, plain and simple. And theternet—it’s the hearts andpinos,” Deputy Speaker The House leader was reacting to aport alleging that inauthentic accounts flooded social media with praise for for-drigo Duterte and are now actively shapingtion about the upcoming

By Eton Concepcion

cent Trinidad told reporters that Manila troops did not monitor any such activity, adding that Bei jing’s statement was meant only for its internal audience.

“Our troops did not observe any exercise, we have to under stand that sometimes, China is doing this for their internal audi ence, right? For them not to look weak and embarrassed,” Trinidad said.

Two Chinese warships were monitored at a distance ranging from eight to 14 nautical miles. One of these went up to 1,000 yards at the MMCA site but even tually went away. “It was not threatening, just normal,” accord

THE Philippines’ Alexie Mae Caimoso Brooks lived up to expectations, winning the Miss Eco International 2025 crown during finals held at Hilton Green Plaza in Alexandria, Egypt, on Saturday (Sunday morning in Manila). Brooks, who has Filipino and Black heritage, became the third Filipina to win the title after Cynthia Thomalla in 2018 and Kathleen Paton in 2022. She succeeded last year’s winner, Angelina Usanova of Ukraine.

SALUBONG. A girl dressed in angelic costume fixes the shroud of the statue of Mother Mary in the traditional ‘Salubong’ rites depicting the meeting of the risen Christ with her grieving mother at the San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila on Easter Sunday. Norman Cruz

Maricel V. Cruz, and Rex Espiritu

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr., House Speaker Martin Romualdez, and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. marked Easter Sunday with messages urging Filipinos to embrace faith, unity, and service amid national challenges. In his official statement, Presi-

PAGASA

adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte, that controlled the illegal activities of the POGOs and was involved in the drug trade and extrajudicial killings.

Pope appears to faithful at Vatican Square

POPE Francis appeared in front of thousands of Catholic faithful at St. Peter's Square on Sunday for Easter, despite the 88-year-old pontiff's frail health that has kept him from most Holy Week events.

"Happy Easter," said the Argentine pontiff in a weak voice from his wheelchair at the balcony of St Peter's Basilica, to the delight of tens of thousands of faithful and others in the flower-filled square.

The pope traditionally delivers his "Urbi et Orbi" ("To the City and the World") benediction from the balcony that overlooks St Peter's Square, but he gave that task to a collaborator Sunday.

His address, read out, condemned "worrisome" anti-Semitism, and the "deplorable" situation in Gaza.

Given his delicate health following treatment for pneumonia, it had not been certain whether the leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics would be present, or if so, in what capacity.

In the end, the pope made his appearance.

Just beforehand, he had a brief private meeting with US Vice President JD Vance, who was visiting Rome with his family.

"The meeting, which lasted a few minutes, gave the opportunity to exchange greetings on Easter Sunday," wrote the Vatican in a brief statement, saying the encounter took place at the

PNP:...

From A1

Filipino suspects, there were a total of five individuals present when the victims were detained," PNP spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo told reporters on Saturday.

She also said that Liao surrendered out of fear for his life.

"He fears that he will be killed too and has a personal reason which we will later reveal once we have the clearance," Fajardo disclosed.

The police spokesperson also said investigators are looking into the possible involvement of Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the killing of Que and Pabillo.

Furthermore, Marbil said Liao personally directed a rogue kidnapfor-hire operation wherein he recruited and paid local henchmen to carry

‘Fake...

From A1

The report, citing research by Israeli tech firm Cyabra, found that about a third of the accounts posting about Duterte’s arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC) were fake.

It also warned that up to 45 percent of discussions related to the 2025 elections are being driven by inauthentic actors such as bots, sock puppets, and paid influencers, potentially reaching tens of millions of users.

“This is a wake-up call. The weaponization of disinformation to mislead, misinform and manipulate voters is one of the gravest threats to our democracy today,” said Suarez, who represents the second district of Quezon province.

Suarez said the sheer scale and sophistication of the disinformation networks are drowning out legitimate voices online and eroding public trust

Marcos...

From A1

He described Easter as more than a celebration—it is a call to rise with Christ and work toward a better future.

“We must rise—not merely in belief, but in deeds, and not only in prayer but in action,” he said. “Let us manifest the strength of our faith with the work of our hands and, together, build the Bagong Pilipinas we aspire for.”

Malacañang reported that the President spent Holy Week with his family.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos shared a photo of them observing Maundy Thursday at Suba Beach in Ilocos Norte, which coincided with the couple’s wedding anniversary.

Romualdez echoed the spirit of hope and renewal, saying Easter affirms that no sorrow is final and no burden is carried alone.

“We see this truth reflected in the

pope's residence shortly before 11:30 local time (5:30 PST).

Their meeting came months after a spat between Francis and the administration of US President Donald Trump over its anti-migrant policies.

A crowd of 35,000

The Holy See's press service had not confirmed whether the pope would participate in Sunday's Easter celebrations, insisting it depended on his health.

That did not stop what the Vatican said was a crowd of some 35,000 people from gathering Sunday under hazy skies in the plaza decorated with tulips and other spring flowers in front of St Peter's Basilica, hoping to catch a glimpse of the Jesuit pope.

Marie Manda, 59, from Cameroon, was one of those thinking positively.

"Of course, we hope to see the pope but if he's not here and he's still suffering we'll see his representative," she told Agence France Presse (AFP). "But we want to see the pope, even sick we want to see him!"

Indian tourist Rajesh Kumar, 40, said, however, that he had no idea it was Easter when he booked his holiday with his wife. AFP

out abductions and executions.

The PNP chief said the group committed deliberate, contract-based crimes targeting individuals embroiled in disputes over unpaid debts, betrayals, or internal conflicts.

“In effect, Liao’s criminal scheme operated like a rogue collection agency—except they collected through blood,” Marbil remarked.

He emphasized that the PNP’s swift case buildup, pursuit operations, and intelligence coordination were key to dismantling Liao’s network and solving five other major kidnap-for-hire cases linked to the same group.

“With six major cases now resolved, our focus is on the financiers—the real power behind these blood-for-hire operations,” he said.

The top cop also emphasized that there is no widespread or random kidnapping spree in the country.

“These are isolated, calculated

in democratic institutions.

“Fake praise, fake news, fake accounts—this is how digital warfare is being waged today. And the most dangerous part is, ordinary people might not even know they’re being influenced,” Suarez said.

For his part, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales, Jr., called for a nationwide effort to protect Filipino voters from digital deception, citing a report that fake social media accounts were used to defend Duterte and are now being deployed to manipulate online discourse ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.

“We must defend the Filipino people not just from guns and goons, but from ghost accounts flooding their social media feeds with propaganda and deception,” he said.

The Israel-based tech firm said that the same tactics are now being used in a “deliberate, organized” campaign to shape public perception around the midterm polls.

Gonzales warned that the growing

quiet resilience of our people and in everyday acts of kindness,” he said.

For those in leadership, he added, Easter is a reminder that public service is defined by compassion and responsibility, not titles or power.

“Let this sacred day renew in us the values that endure,” he said, extending wishes for a meaningful Easter on behalf of the House of Representatives.

Teodoro also highlighted the message of hope, redemption, and unity in his Easter message.

He emphasized that Christ’s resurrection serves as a beacon through adversity.

Teodoro praised the dedication of the country’s military personnel, saying their sacrifice embodies the Easter spirit of resilience and service.

acts rooted in personal and financial vendettas. The situation is firmly under control. Our law enforcement strategies are effective. Criminal networks are being taken down,” he stressed.

Meanwhile, House Speaker Martin Romualdez lauded the PNP under Marbil for the swift arrest of several suspects in the brutal killing.

He said the development demonstrates the Marcos administration’s resolve to deliver justice and protect the public from organized crime.

“This case proves that our law enforcement institutions, when fully supported, are capable of solving even the most complex crimes without resorting to violence or extrajudicial means,” Romualdez said on Sunday.

“We commend the PNP, led by General Marbil, for showing that the rule of law works when we are united in purpose and committed to due pro-

sophistication of digital manipulation poses a serious threat to the integrity of the country’s electoral process.

“When bots, trolls, and fake profiles can reach millions of Filipinos and alter the truth with just a few clicks, democracy itself is under attack,” he stressed.

Gonzales urged the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to launch a joint national digital literacy program to help students and the public identify and resist coordinated disinformation campaigns.

For his part, Suarez urged major social media platforms like Meta, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube to take stronger, more proactive action to detect and remove coordinated fake accounts.

“They have the resources and the algorithms to detect inauthentic behavior. They can’t just turn a blind eye while democracy is un -

Alexie...

From A1

Yulinarr Fitriani of Indonesia finished as first runner-up, while Yelyzaveta Adamska of Ukraine and Cynthia Murillo of the USA were named second and third runners-up, respectively. Half-Filipina Victoria Repollo Inglis of the United Kingdom, a half-Filipina with Ilocos roots, was fourth runner-up. Thailand, Costa Rica, Egypt, Canada, Brazil, and Venezuela rounded out the top 11 semi-finalists. Brooks was asked the final question in the interview portion, “Imagine the world in 2050. What’s one thing you

Classes... From A1

cess,” he added. This developed as Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel urged President Marcos to mobilize the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) to support civilian law enforcement in gathering actionable information against kidnapping syndicates.

“The President may lawfully deploy ISAFP, as well as the intelligence units of the Army, Air Force, and Navy, to assist the Philippine National Police (PNP) in countering kidnapping groups – particularly when their activities pose threats to public safety or national security,” he said.

Citing the 1987 Constitution, Pimentel emphasized that the President, as commander-in-chief, holds broad authority to direct military operations, including intelligence activities, in matters concerning internal security and public order.

der attack,” he said.

At the same time, Suarez urged stronger digital literacy campaigns to equip Filipinos with the tools to spot and resist online manipulation.

As this developed, Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega V of La Union on Sunday said some falsehoods come directly from the mouths of politicians, citing how impeached Vice President Sara Duterte has decided to back senatorial candidates despite earlier pronouncements that she would stay out of the endorsements game.

“It is not surprising that the position of our Vice President has changed [her stance] when it comes to the endorsement of Senate candidates,” he pointed out.

“We know that the impeachment trial is nearing, so it is natural that he is looking for allies,” the solon noted.

This comes after Duterte publicly endorsed two senatorial hopefuls. According to Ortega, the shift in strategy reflects political pragmatism.

hope has changed?”

"If you want me to be realistic, climate change is impacting our world right now. And the only thing that we can do is to act towards it. We have the same mother even if we came from different nations. And our mother is asking for our help. So, we must save our planet Earth and we must take care of our Mother Earth. Thank you so much," Brooks answered confidently. Brooks also bagged the Best National Costume Award, a Philippine Eagle-inspired creation by Tata Pinuela, for the second consecutive year for the Philippines. She was first runner-up in the Best in Talent and Top 6 in the Best Eco Wear, a West Philippines Sea-inspired dress.

US... From A1

To be held upto to May 9, Balika-

tan will involve 5,000 Filipino troops and 9,000 American personnel.

“This marks the inaugural deployment of the newly fielded Marine Corps weapon system to the Philippines and serves as a major milestone for the continuously developing USPhilippines alliance,” the 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment said.

Meanwhile, defense publication Naval News said the missiles are being deployed to “a strategic first island chain chokepoint” in the waters between Taiwan proper and the Philippines.

The publication quoted Ben Lewis, co-founder of PLATracker and an expert on the Chinese military as saying, “The Luzon Strait and Bashi Channel represent a critical access point to enter or exit the Pacific Ocean from the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, and the deployment of NMESIS allows the US to assert control over that access."

The deployment of the NMESIS was initially announced by US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth on March 28 during his visit to Manila. He reaffirmed Washington's unwavering commitment to its oldest treaty and military ally in the region.

On April 15, Philippine Army Brig. Gen. Michael Logico, serving as the spokesperson for "Balikatan," confirmed the arrival of the NMESIS in the Philippines.

Last week, the US Marines said several NMESIS launchers would be airlifted by US Army and Marine aviation units to conduct maritime key terrain security operations across multiple islands in the Batanes.

“Their courage and commitment reflect the very spirit of Easter: sacrifice, resilience, and hope,” he said. The officials’ messages resonated with a shared call for national unity, grounded in faith and the collective effort to uplift all Filipinos. Fuel... From A1

The school year will run until March 31, 2026, covering 197 class days, including the End-of-School-Year

(EOSY) rites. The DepEd noted that this number may change based on unforeseen events and future directives. Enrollment and Brigada Eskwela activities are set from June 9 to 13, one week before classes officially begin.

Romero attributed the higher prices to tighter global supply, driven by fresh U.S. sanctions on Iran, the pledge of production cuts by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies, and hopes of easing U.S.-China trade tensions. Meanwhile, Jetti Petroleum President Leo Bellas said oil prices have rallied on concerns about global supplies following U.S. pressure on Iran over its nuclear program and the imposition of new sanctions to curb Iranian oil exports.

“Further adding to supply worries is the OPEC plan for several oilproducing members to curb output to compensate for pumping above agreed quotas, and the ongoing peak maintenance season of refineries,” Bellas said.

On April 8, 2025, local oil companies implemented a price decrease of P0.10 per liter for gasoline and P0.50 per liter for kerosene. There was no adjustment for diesel.

Year-to-date, gasoline has a total net increase of P4.55 per liter, diesel a total net increase of P4.45, while kerosene has a total net increase of P0.40 per liter.

EASTER BLESSINGS. Pope Francis appears on the main balcony of St. Peter's basilica during the Urbi et Orbi message and blessing to the city and the world as part of Easter celebrations at St. Peter's square in the Vatican on April 20, 2025. AFP

Philippine

and their US

IN BRIEF

PMA strengthens ties with Canada institutions

THE Philippine Military Academy (PMA) recently completed a benchmarking visit to Canadian military institutions, marking a key step in advancing international cooperation and military education.

From April 10 to 14, 2025, a PMA delegation visited the Canadian Defence Academy (CDA), the Royal Military College (RMC) in Kingston, Ontario, and the Royal Military College Saint-Jean in Quebec.

Led by PMA Superintendent Vice Admiral Caesar Bernard Valencia, the team explored ways to enhance the Academy’s curriculum and training, aiming to align with global military standards and produce worldclass graduates.

The visit also opened discussions on launching a Foreign Academy Exchange Program (FAEP) to promote academic and professional collaboration between the PMA and its Canadian counterparts.

PMA said the initiative supports the Department of National Defense’s goal to partner with like-minded military academies offering tri-service education and strengthen global defense ties. Rex Espiritu

Senior Citizens party-list backs Meralco renewal

THE Senior Citizens Party-list expressed support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s signing of Republic Act 12146, which extends the franchise of Manila Electric Company (Meralco) for another 25 years. The law, signed on April 11, allows Meralco to continue operating its power distribution network across Metro Manila and parts of Central and Southern Luzon.

The group, represented in Congress by Rep. Rodolfo Ordanes, had backed the early renewal of Meralco’s franchise during the 19th Congress, citing the importance of reliable electricity to senior citizens’ daily lives, particularly for medical equipment, food storage, and other essentials.

They noted Meralco’s efforts to improve service reliability through infrastructure investments, as well as its ongoing senior citizen discount program, which offers a five percent subsidy to qualified beneficiaries.

The law requires Meralco to maintain efficient, inclusive, and transparent service, aligned with Department of Energy and Energy Regulatory Commission standards. It includes provisions for billing transparency and a lifeline rate for marginalized customers. Maricel V. Cruz

Bataan LGU seeks to honor farmers, fisherfolk

THE Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Bataan, led by Vice Governor Cris Garcia, has passed an ordinance declaring the third week of May each year as “Bataan Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Week” to honor and recognize the contributions of farmers and fisherfolk in the province.

The ordinance aims to support and empower the agriculture and fisheries sectors by improving access to technology, research, financial assistance, and marketing programs.

It also promotes the active involvement of farmers and fisherfolk in government planning and development initiatives.

The week-long celebration will include various activities and programs to highlight their essential role in society and promote their well-being.

The ordinance was authored by Board Member Popoy Del Rosario. Butch Gunio

Money, violence, power in May polls

MOn April 10, while waiting to speak at a rally in Leyte, he was shot in the chest by an unknown assailant. He survived, but others have not been as fortunate.

Between January 12 and April 11, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) recorded 46 acts of political violence, including the deaths of a city council candidate, a polling officer, and a village chief. Fewer than 20 candidates have been killed this season, a decrease compared to about 100 in the previous general election, Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said. Experts say such violence remains entrenched. Local government posts grant control over jobs, police, and public funds—power

worth fighting over. In areas far from Manila, where the rule of law is weaker, local elites often act with impunity. These political dynasties maintain private armies and patronage networks, especially in the country’s northern and southern regions, where violence is most intense.

“If you lose city hall, you lose both economic and political power,” said Cleve Arguelles of WR Numero Research. “It becomes personal—between neighbors, clans.”

Convictions are rare. While Comelec claims election-related shootings are moving through the courts, it offers no specific figures. According to Armed Conflict Location and Event Data, perpetrators in 79% of violent

incidents targeting local officials from 2018 to 2022 were never identified.

National politicians, dependent on local allies for votes, have little incentive to push for justice.

Espinosa’s case is one of many. In Mindanao’s Bangsamoro region, a district board candidate and his driver were hospitalized after a recent attack. Last month, Comelec assumed control over Buluan and Datu Odin Sinsuat after a municipal election officer and her husband were killed.

Local police chiefs were suspended for allegedly ignoring security requests, though their suspension lasts only until newly elected officials are sworn in.

Laudiangco defended Comelec’s security plan, calling it “tried and tested,” but acknowledged that family ties, political rivalry, and weak institutions continue to fuel conflict.

“We all know Filipinos are clannish,” he said. “That’s our culture. But we’re improving slowly.” AFP

Four

earthquakes jolt parts of

By Rio N. Araja

FOUR earthquakes struck parts of Mindanao on Easter Sunday, the first of which was a magnitude 5.9 tremor recorded at 12:11 a.m. off the coast of Sultan Kudarat. The tectonic quake had a depth of 6 kilometers, with its epicenter located 51 kilometers west of Palimbang. According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), two more quakes were also recorded in Sultan Kudarat, while another occurred in Davao Occidental. The magnitude 5.9 quake was felt at Intensity 5 in Kiamba, Sarangani and Lebak, Sultan Kudarat; Intensity 4 in Alabel, Glan, and Maitum in Sarangani, and T’boli and Tupi in South Cotabato; Intensity 3 in multiple towns in Sarangani, South Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat, as well as in General Santos City;

Mindanao on Sunday

Intensity 2 in Davao del Sur, Davao City, parts of Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat; and Intensity 1 in Zamboanga City and several municipalities in Davao del Sur.

A second quake with a magnitude of 5.1 followed at 12:50 a.m., also west

of Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat, at a depth of 1 km. It was felt at Intensity 3 in Maitum, Sarangani and Tupi, South Cotabato; Intensity 2 in several nearby areas including Maasim and Norala; and Intensity 1 in Polomolok, South Cotabato.

Coast Guard eyeing case against owner of capsized Hong Hai

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is considering the possible filing of administrative charges against the owner of the MV Hong Hai 16, which capsized off the coast of Occidental Mindoro on April 15.

PCG Deputy Spokesperson Commander Michael John Encina emphasized, however, that the agency’s current priority is the ongoing search and recovery operations, as well as the prevention of a potential oil spill.

“Let’s focus on that first before we proceed with any administrative cases that may be filed against the owner, depending on the results of the investigation,” Encina said in an interview with Super Radyo dzBB.

The PCG has earlier issued a demand letter to the shipowner, requiring full cooperation in the continuing response efforts in the waters off Rizal, Occidental Mindoro.

According to Encina, nine crew members were confirmed dead in the incident, while four others remain missing.

The cause of the capsizing has yet to be determined, but Encina noted that the investigation is also looking into the possibility of stability issues with the vessel.

So far, there have been no signs of an oil spill in the area where the ship overturned, he added.

Decorated PCG captain first female Coast Guard spokesperson

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) announced the appointment of Captain Noemie Guirao-Cayabyab, PCG, as its first-ever female spokesperson.

With her professional endeavors and countless achievements rooted in excellence, the PCG sais Cayabyab embodies dedication, strength, and impact — qualities that make her a natural fit for this trailblazing role. Cayabyab will lead the communications of the PCG’s key initiatives, represent the organization in national and global conversations, and amplify its efforts toward a more diverse and empowered future.

This significant pursuit underscores the PCG’s firm commitment to advancing gender equality and elevating the role of women in the organization, as emphasized by PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan.

“The steady rise of women in leadership positions in the PCG is the culmination of decades of perseverance, shattering glass ceilings, and breaking barriers in the 21st century,” Admiral Gavan, PCG, emphasized.

Cayabyab is a member of Coast Guard Officer Course “SANDIWA” Class 07-05 and hails from Romblon. She is a highly accomplished officer currently serving as the Deputy Chief of Coast Guard Staff for Education and Training (CG-12).

With a distinguished career in maritime safety, security, and personnel management, Cayabyab has held several key leadership roles, including commanding the Vessel Safety Service Unit, where she oversaw the review and approval of the now updated Pre-Departure Inspection Checklist for domestic vessels.

She also pioneered the establishment of the PCG Pension and Gratuity Management Center (now RBAS) and has held significant positions in the Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog and the Coast Guard Education, Training, and Doctrine Command.

She further distinguished herself by receiving the Dean’s Award for outstanding achievement in her Master of Policy Studies in Maritime Safety and Security Policy at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) in Tokyo, Japan, in 2021, where she was the only Filipina and Coast Guard officer in her class to receive this prestigious recognition.

ASSAULT.

Navy personnel

counterparts participate in MAREX 2025’s amphibious assault drills in Cotabato. Sgt. Ezekieljay Correa

HERITAGE WALK. Tour guide Stephen Go shares the history of Manila’s 3rd district, which is said to have the largest concentration of 19th-century houses in Manila. Richmond Chi

COAST GUARD SPOX. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) announces the appointment of Captain Noemie Guirao-Cayabyab as its first-ever female spokesperson.

Gov’t forces kill two NPA rebels in Mindanao

By Rex Espiritu

TWO suspected communist rebels were reported killed in separate encounters with government forces in the provinces of Maguindanao del Norte and Sultan Kudarat.

Brig. Gen. Romulo Quemado II, commander of the 1st Marine Brigade, said one of the fatalities, identified as Norsaidie Samo Tato, was slain in a firefight on Good Friday in Barangay Meti, Datu Blah Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte.

The operation was carried out by troops from the Marine Battalion Landing Team-5 (MBLT5), along with policemen and members of other security agencies.

Seized at the scene were various weapons and equipment, including a shotgun, a Springfield Armory caliber .45 pistol, a caliber .22 pistol with a scope, magazines, ammunition, a grenade, five handheld radios, two passports, and two identification cards.

On the same day, another encounter occurred in Purok Patyog, Barangay Banali, Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat. A member of a communist terrorist group was killed after clashing with troops from the 7th Infantry (Tapat) Battalion, led by Lt. Col. Tristan Rey P. Vallescas.

The Army said local residents reported the presence of an armed group extorting money from farmers, businessmen, and even political candidates.

Operating troops from the 7IB responded to the report, leading to the encounter and the death of a New People’s Army guerilla, along with the recovery of an M16 rifle.

Brig. Gen. Michael Santos, chief of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, emphasized that the military remains vigilant despite the observance of the Holy Week.

Tourists flocked to Aurora during the Holy Week

THE Aurora provincial tourism office (PTO) reported that more than 433,000 tourists visited the province during the Holy Week.

The figure included134,164 overnight guests and 299,030 one-day visitors. Among Aurora’s eight towns, Dipaculao recorded the highest number of overnight guests with 64,012, followed by Dingalan with 27,686, and Dilasag with 17,439.

In terms of same-day visitors, Dipaculao also topped the list with 93,945, followed by Dingalan with 57,988 and Casiguran with 55,704.

The provincial capital of Baler which is known for its fine beaches and surfing potentials logged a total of 5,116 overnight guests and 16,545 same-day tourists.

The PTO noted that while majority of the visitors were domestic travelers, 506 foreign tourists and 162 overseas Filipino guests were also recorded during the period.

They attributed the high visitors turnout to effective promotion of Aurora’s ecotourism sites, beach destinations, and cultural heritage.

To ensure visitor safety and convenience, tourist assistance desks were set up in coordination with local government units and municipal tourism offices. The desks helped manage the influx of visitors, providing information and coordinating with emergency and rescue teams when needed.

DFA warns vs. shady overseas job offers

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) warns jobseekers against shady overseas job offers online that could potentially end up in serious misadventures in foreign lands

The DFA issued the warned following the rescue and repatriation of 10 more overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Cambodia. The ill-starred OFWs were rescued

in the Oddar Meanchey province in northwestern Cambodia through a collaboration between the Cambodian police and the Philippine Embassy in Phnom Penh, according to a DFA statement.

Last week, 26 OFWS who worked for a company in the same Cambodian province were also sent home upon their request.

It was not clear if the OFWs were victims of human trafficking although it was established that they went to Cambodia after falling prey to dubious job offers on the internet.

“While always ready to extend prompt Assistance-to-Nationals service, the Philippine Embassy urges prudence and discernment among Filipino online job seekers,” the DFA

statement read. Representatives from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the InterAgency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) welcomed the repatriates on arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Parañaque City.

The DFA said the Embassy in Phnom Penh bankrolled the repatriation cost its Assistance to Nationals (ATN) Fund.

The group was brought to the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh prior to their flight back home on Sunday.

The Philippine Embassy thanked the Cambodian government for its assistance in the repatriation proceedings.

Bicol lawmaker pays final tributes to national artist Nora Aunor

By Maricel V. Cruz

NATIONAL Unity Party (NUP) president and Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuertehas celebrated the late national artist Nora Aunor for her legacy as the “one true superstar” of Philippine cinema and music who left an enduring impression among Filipinos not only as a multi-awarded film actress-producer and singer, but also as an accomplished performer both on the stage and television.

“My family and I join not only our provincemates in CamSur and fellow Bicolanos in the region, but all other Filipinos as well in our country and overseas in praying for the eternal repose of the soul, and celebrating the enduring legacy, of the one true superstar Nora Aunor,” said Villafuerte, a fellow Bicolano of Aunor, once a three-term gover-

nor and now congressman representing the province’s second district.

“Ate Guy (Nora)’s passing spells a great loss for our people, especially the masa who were mesmerized by her meteoric rise to stardom from her impoverished beginnings as a train station vendor in our city of Iriga on the back of her golden voice and, later, her unparalleled acting chops,” Villafuerte said.

“She was truly blessed as an actress and singer, as her unparalleled achievements in the entertainment world over some six decades attest,” Villafuerte said. “But what is amazing is that for all her God-given talents, she—as her family, friends, peers, coworkers and fans proclaim—led a life of humility and generosity to others, particularly the needy, and minus the prima-madonna ways of stars of her equal, or even of lower stature, often feel entitled to,” he said.

Patients from Bataan get P500-k assistance

PUSONG Pinoy party-list, through its “Alagang Pusong Pinoy” initiative, has provided P500,000 worth of guarantee letters to patients from Bataan. The assistance was given to patients requiring treatment at the Philippine Heart Center, the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, and the Philippine General Hospital. Pusong Pinoy Rep. Jett Nisay recently visited residents of Balanga City, Orani, Samal, Abucay, Bagac, Dinalupihan, Mariveles, Orion, Pilar, and Limay to check on their situation and listen to their concerns. Nisay said another P430,000 was given to patients through the Local Government Support Fund. Butch Gunio

Troops seize Red’s firearms in Quezon

THE military retrieved a New People’s Army (NPA) arms cache following a clash in a barangay in Quezon province on Wednesday, April 16.

The Army’s 2nd Infantry Division reported that the seized items included an M16 rifle, 14 long magazines, a hand grenade, two rounds of 40mm live ammunition, an ICOM radio, five backpacks, two bandoliers, personal belongings, and subversive documents.

According to the 202nd Infantry Brigade, soldiers from the 80th Infantry Battalion were conducting routine security operations when they engaged the NPA in a 20-minute firefight.

No government casualties were reported, while possible NPA casualties are still being verified based on bloodstains found at the scene. Rex Espiritu

N. Vizcaya gov’t mulls raps vs. DENR panel

NUEVA Vizcaya Gov. Jose Gambito has directed the provincial legal office to explore possible actions against Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) officials for alleged unlawful intervention in a territorial dispute between Nueva Viscaya and Pangasinan.

Gambito issued the order during a meeting of the ad hoc committee of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan attended by representatives of the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA). During the meeting, the DENR technical working group presented its evaluation report on the row over territorial boundaries between the municipalities of Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya and San Nicolas, Pangasinan. Gambito maintained that the boundary dispute over Barangay Malico has been thoroughly resolved, affirming that Malico is officially part of Nueva Vizcaya, based on a delineation by the NAMRIA) of the DENR. However, the DENR TWG’s final report contradicted the NAMRIA survey results, recommending that these be set aside in favor of the approved cadastral maps of both municipalities. Brenda Jocson

BAYWATCH.

FAMILY BONDING, QUALITY TIME, AND THE BEACH. Putting the Holy Week rites behind them, families are having a field day at a beach of San Juan Bay in Laiya, Batangas on Black Saturday. Norman Cruz

OPINION

The Senate races

A DAUGHTER gifted me with a French bulldog recently, to replace a third-generation dachshund descended from its grandparents the family had since the eighties.

Thinking of a name to call the new pet, my daughter suggested Muttly, after the snickering dog of Dick Dastardly, my favorite TV cartoon when my kids were young. It was about car races where Dick would try every trick to win, with his mascot Muttly beside him.

They even kidded me that I was always “dastardly,” a sinister plotter, starting when I dabbled in backroom politics, plotting the fall of Marcos Senior to other political bigwigs in the span of 43 years.

Of course not, I always riposted. I just find politics exciting and truly engaging.

In three short weeks from now, our people will troop to the polls, in one of those rare mid-term occurrences where predictability has become quite tricky.

Surely they will re-elect Bong Go and Bato, Erwin Tulfo, Tito Sotto, maybe Ben Tulfo as well, or a useless retread, Bong Revilla. But the next seven slots are still anyone’s game, not only by way of changeable rankings, but by who will get into the Magic Seven.

Crowding themselves into the possible seven or eight slots are a mixed bag of Alyansa, PDP, Kakampinks, and Inday Sara’s newest choices, and not to forget two independents, Revillame and Ben Tulfo. Far too many for limited musical chairs with a three-week deadline.

Alyansa’s mixed-bag coalition has Lacson, Cayetano, Binay, Lapid and Pacman still in the running in this “sobrang sikip” contest.

PDP’s mixed bag, otherwise known as fPRRD’s choices, can count yet on Marcoleta, Ipe and Bondoc who cannot be discounted, the first because of tinseltown’s memory lane, the other two because they have surprisingly high conversion despite lower awareness levels.

If Revillame wins because voters have lost their marbles, he will be joining pals Ipe, Bong Revilla, and Lito Lapid , plus Robinhood and Jinggoy, so the Senate will be like a movie set with Tito Sotto holding the clapboard.

Now let’s look at how “representative” of the tribal Filipino nation the Senate of the 20th Congress will be: From NCR: two Cayetanos, Binay, the Tulfo brothers (2 or 3 with parentage from Mindanao), and may also represent the US of A, Sotto, Mark Villar (plus Camille if she makes it), the two Erap sons, Gatchalian, count in Risa Hontiveros and Loren Legarda as well (they may have provincial roots but lived in Metro Manila all their lives). That’s anywhere from 12 to 14 from NCR, at least half of the entire body if the surveys are right till May 12.

There will be two from Cavite: Lacson and Revilla, one Bulakeno in Joel Villanueva, Lapid of Pampanga (plus Kiko and Bam of NCR with roots in Central Luzon), Marcoleta from Tarlac, Bondoc from Quezon City, and three from Mindanao, namely Zubiri of Bukidnon, and Bong Go plus Bato from Davao. If Revillame makes it, he could likewise represent Nueva Ecija.

There will be two Bicolanos, Senate President Chiz Escudero, plus Robinhood whose father was once governor of Camarines Norte, an Islam convert whose parentage is Bulacan and Nueva Ecija.

Will Miru and Comelec perform honestly, with no shades of cheating?

There will only be one Ilocana, Imee Marcos, whose mother is Waray. If she makes it to the magic 12, she will be the only one representing the “solid” North and Eastern Visayas, whose languages she is conversant with.

In our nation of tribes, this will be the count: anywhere from 12 to 17 from Metro Manila, three from Mindanao, two from Cavite in Region 4, two or four from Central Luzon, and just one who can represent Regions, 1, 2, CAR, half of the provinces of Zambales, Tarlac and Nueva Ecija, as well as Region 8.

No one will represent Regions 4-B, 6 and 7. When the outstanding performers Serge Osmena and Frank Drilon left the Senate, these very populous Visayan regions were left without representation.

This headcount is based on the latest mid-March poll surveys. Those who are not mentioned should blame the surveys or themselves.

Now, if Inday Sara can pull a surprise, and add Marcoleta, Ipe, Bondoc, Imee and Camille, to sure winners Bong Go and Bato, she will not be convicted in the forthcoming Senate trial of the 20th Congress. She will have more than enough to get acquitted.

Which of course will be a stinging defeat for the administration, rendering the current president a lameduck with hardly any political capital left in this land of the balimbings.

How will the electorate finally decide?

Will a strong wave of sympathy for the imprisoned leader on top of the disenchantment over inflation, crime and corruption thwart the resources and machinery of the administration and its celebrity candidates?

Not to forget another outlying factor: will Miru and Comelec perform honestly, with no shades of cheating?

The challenge to lead, not just supply

WHEN Meralco’s franchise was officially renewed for another 25 years, it marked more than just a continuation of service – it signaled confidence in the country’s biggest electric utility to power regions that are the top economic performers of the Philippines.

For many, especially those living in Metro Manila and nearby provinces, Meralco has been keeping the lights on, businesses humming, and homes connected. But this fresh mandate comes with great expectations.

Beyond distributing electricity, it is an opportunity to lead in transforming how the power sector will bolster the country’s growth, resilience, and improve the lives of Filipino consumers.

Electricity is the foundation for economic progress, social mobility, and even democratic participation. And as the country’s most critical regions prepare for rapid demand growth, rising digitalization, and climate-related challenges, Meralco is distinctively positioned to be a catalyst for sustainable prosperity.

Meralco powers over 7.75 million customers across regions that drive nearly half of the country’s GDP.

It’s more than a utility—it’s a pillar of the Philippine economy.

And while it has upgraded systems and moved more than 60 percent of customer transactions online, consumers aren’t just looking for digital convenience or new sub-

stations. They want real, everyday impact: fewer outages, reasonable rates, faster response times, and a service that keeps pace with their lives and aspirations.

Consumers want real, everyday impact: fewer outages, reasonable rates, faster response times, and a service that keeps pace with their lives and aspirations

Energy security is also at the heart of the Marcos Jr. administration’s development agenda, and Meralco plays a vital role in making it happen.

The Philippine Development Plan and the long-range Philippine Energy Plan both stress the need for a secure, affordable, and sustainable energy system to power the economy and create jobs. With electricity sales projected to grow more than fourfold by 2050, Meralco’s ability to deliver stable, cost-effective power is directly linked to strategic national objectives—from attract-

EDITORIAL

Guided by the numbers

ASURVEY conducted by polling firm Pulse Asia Research has found that controlling the prices of goods and services remains the most urgent concern of Filipinos, with 69 percent of respondents believing it to be an issue that requires immediate government action.

The survey was conducted between March 23 and 29, 2025 among 2,400 adult Filipinos across the country, chosen through multi-stage probability sampling.

Other issues deemed of utmost importance were increasing the pay of workers (36 percent), fighting graft and corruption in government (28 percent), fighting criminality (28 percent), reducing the poverty of many Filipinos (27 percent), and creating more jobs (20 percent).

rcentage point- difference between the most urgent and second-most urgent concern is telling. It is also consist-

ing investors to building resilient, job creating industries that will drive the economy forward.

During the franchise deliberations, Meralco committed to investing ₱206 billion over the next five years to reduce system losses and improve distribution efficiency.

This isn’t just a technical upgrade—it’s a move aimed at lowering costs across the board while building out infrastructure to support future-facing industries like the transition to electric vehicles and stable power for data centers.

These are sectors that will drive the next phase of the country’s digital and industrial expansion, and Meralco’s readiness to support them will be critical.

Meralco has also committed to continuing improvements in system reliability. Back in 2011, the average customer experienced around 550 minutes of power interruptions each year.

Today, that number is down to just 123 minutes and will hopefully soon be closer

ent with the respondents’ disapproval of the current administration’s to control inflation (79 percent disapprove, 3 percent approve), fight graft and corruption (53 percent disapprove, 13 percent approve), reduce poverty (48 percent disapprove, 12 percent approve), and increase workers’ pay (48 percent disapprove, 16 percent approve).

It is time to cut the histrionics and evaluate our leaders by the issues they address. They must do this not only in words but in decisions and sustained action.

While it is worthwhile to mention that the administration gained a 51-percent approval rating in both protecting the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers and responding to the needs of calamity-affected areas, it is important to qualify these. The protection of OFWs figures in the three top concerns of just 3 percent of respondents, while calamity assistance does not even count as among the most urgent. The same survey showed that ad-

to zero. For businesses and households alike, this kind of reliability isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential. But here’s what consumers will really be watching: will these investments make power more affordable? Will service improve not just in urban centers but in smaller, underserved communities? Will the average customer—whether a small business owner or an ordinary family—feel the benefits?

While Meralco leads in resources and reach, many parts of the country still suffer from unreliable and uneven power service.

Outages like the one in Panay Island, which cost billions in economic losses, remind us that our power system remains fragile. And as extreme weather swings become more intense and frequent, the need for resilient, climate-proofed infrastructure becomes urgent.

Meralco’s scale gives it the unique ability to help fix this—by not just focusing on its franchise area, but by partnering with other utilities, sharing its expertise, and taking

ministration figures had grim showing in their trust ratings.

It may well be that recent political developments and efforts to win the hearts and minds of Filipinos through false or misleading narratives could be responsible for the trust picture. But this is more certain: that the trust of the people is a function of how well their leaders address the issues they deem most important to their quality of life. The administration must thus take the cue from what the people are saying. Economic issues, over many others, remain their most pressing concerns. At the end of the day, and whoever is in power, the people want nothing more than to afford basic goods so that they can provide for the needs of their families. They want to be able to earn more money for the work that they put in. They want to see their taxes managed and spent honestly. They want to be able to rise above their poverty and contemplate a brighter future for their loved ones.

Filipinos have long been enslaved by personal loyalties and individual appeals to emotion. It is time to cut the histrionics and evaluate our leaders by the issues they address. They must do this not only in words but in decisions and sustained action. These latest numbers are telling us something -- that whoever is able to allay people’s economic apprehensions have a decent shot at earning their trust and approval.

a more active role in improving the entire distribution network nationwide.

It has done this before during disasters, extending support to provinces beyond its coverage – a commendable intervention that should become a sustained industry commitment to nationwide energy resilience.

Meralco can further push up the bar for what a world-class, consumer-first utility should be.

It can show that the success of private enterprise is a direct function of how it is responsive to the public good—by keeping prices fair, supporting clean energy, and ensuring reliability. As a consumer advocate, here is a challenge to Meralco – treat this franchise extension as an urgent a call to action.

Step up as a national partner in energy transformation. Help build a consumer centric power ecosystem that’s smarter, cleaner, robust, and scaled to be ahead of the surging demand of a growing digital economy. Go beyond what’s required.

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Can you make the first portrait into horizontal format with the figure at the center, surrounded by applause and accolades?. She has a mole on her left cheek near the nose. There is a floating scroll next to her that says ‘thank you, Nora Aunor.’

US Supreme Court intervenes to block Trump deportations

WASHINGTON, DC—The US Supreme Court, in a dramatic nighttime intervention Saturday (Sunday Manila time), blocked President Donald Trump’s unprecedented use of an obscure law to deport Venezuelan migrants without due process.

The emergency ruling noted that two of the most conservative justices on the nine-member panel had dissented.

The order temporarily prevents the government from continuing to expel migrants under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act—last used to round up JapaneseAmerican citizens during World War II.

Trump invoked the law last month to deport Venezuelans to a notorious prison in El Salvador that holds thousands of that country’s gangsters.

The court decision was triggered by imminent plans late Friday to expel dozens more Venezuelans under the act, meaning they would have been deported with next to no ability to hear evidence or challenge their cases.

The court said “the government is directed not to remove any member of the putative class of detainees from the United States until further order.”

Trump justifies summary expulsions —and the detention of people in El Salvador—by insisting that he is cracking down on violent Venezuelan criminal gangs now classified by the US government as terrorists.

But the policy is fueling opposition concerns that the Republican is ignoring the US constitution in a broader bid to amass power.

The row over the Alien Enemies Act comes amid muscular assaults by the administration against big law firms, Harvard and other universities, and major independent media outlets.

The American Civil Liberties Union, which took the lead in seeking to halt Friday’s planned deportations, welcomed the Supreme Court ruling.

“These men were in imminent danger of spending their lives in a horrific foreign prison without ever having had a chance to go to court,” attorney Lee Gelernt said.

On Saturday the government filed a motion with the Supreme Court arguing that it should not be prevented from using the Alien Enemies Act to deport people it says are terrorists.

The government also asserted that even if it is blocked, the court should state that such deportations can go ahead using other laws.

Trump won the White House election last November in large part on promises to combat what he repeatedly claimed is an invasion of criminal migrants.

Trump’s rhetoric about rapists and murderers descending on suburban homes resonated with swaths of voters concerned about high levels of illegal immigration.

Trump has sent troops to the Mexican border, imposed tariffs on Mexico and Canada for allegedly not doing enough to stop illegal crossings, and designated gangs like Tren de Aragua and MS-13 as terrorist groups.

A right-wing influencer who meets often with Trump, Laura Loomer, said Saturday that the president was “gracious” for flying out people who entered the country illegally, rather than having them “shot to death” at the border. AFP

US, Iran report progress in 2nd round of nuke talks

ROME, Italy—The United States and Iran made progress in a second round of high-stakes talks on Tehran’s nuclear program during the weekend and agreed to meet again next week, both sides said.

The Oman-mediated talks in Rome lasted about four hours, Iranian state television and a senior US official said.

Tehran’s top diplomat Abbas Araghchi declared it a “good meeting” that yielded progress.

“This time we managed to reach a better understanding on a series of principles and goals,” he told Iranian state TV.

The senior US official said in a statement, “Today, in Rome over four hours in our second round of talks, we made very good progress in our direct

WEEKEND PROTEST.

Anti-riot police officers stand guard in a line (rear) as protesting university students gather to organize a march one month after the arrest of Istanbul Metropolitan Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, in Istanbul during the weekend. The students wanted to march from Beyazit Square in Istanbul’s Fatih district to the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, but the police prevented them from doing so. AFP

and indirect discussions.”

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said the parties “agreed to resume indirect talks at a technical level over the next few days and subsequently continue at the level of two senior negotiators next Saturday”, April 26.

The US official confirmed another meeting next week but did not specify which day or where.

Oman said the third round would be in Muscat, returning to the site of the first talks a week ago.

Those were the first discussions at such a high level between the foes since US President Donald Trump abandoned a landmark nuclear accord in 2018.

Western countries including the United States have long accused Iran of seeking to acquire nuclear weapons —an allegation Tehran has consistently denied, insisting that its program is for peaceful civilian purposes.

After Saturday’s talks, Oman’s foreign ministry said Araghchi and US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff had agreed to keep negotiating.

The talks, it said, “aim to seal a fair, enduring and binding deal which will ensure Iran (is) completely free of nuclear weapons and sanctions, and maintaining its ability to develop peaceful nuclear energy”. AFP

Zelenskyy says Russian attacks ongoing despite Putin’s Easter truce

KRAMATORSK, Ukraine—Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday said Russian forces were continuing their shelling and assaults along the front line despite Russian President Vladimir Putin announcing a surprise but brief Easter truce. The 30-hour truce would be the most significant pause in the fighting throughout the three-year conflict.

But just hours after the order was meant to have come into effect, airraid sirens sounded in Kyiv and several other Ukrainian regions, with Zelenskyy accusing Russia of having maintained its attacks.

“Across various frontline directions, there have already been 59 cases of Russian shelling and five assaults by Russian units,” Zelenskyy said on so-

cial media, citing a report as of 6:00 am (0300 GMT) from Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky.

He said that in the six hours up to midnight (2100 GMT) Saturday, there were “387 instances of shelling and 19 assaults by Russian forces,” with drones “used by Russians 290 times”.

“Overall, as of Easter morning, we can state that the Russian army is at-

tempting to create the general impression of a ceasefire, while in some areas still continuing isolated attempts to advance and inflict losses on Ukraine,” Zelenskyy’s post said. Putin’s order to halt all combat over the Easter weekend came after months of efforts by US President Donald Trump to get Moscow and Kyiv to agree a ceasefire. AFP

6 dead as huge waves hit Australian coast

SYDNEY—A fisherman died after being swept off rocks near Sydney on Sunday, stretching the Easter weekend death toll of drownings to six as huge waves battered Australia’s east coast.

Emergency services winched two people from the surf at Wattamolla Beach, but one of them couldn’t be revived, New South Wales Police said in a statement.

The pair had been fishing when swept off rocks on the outskirts of southern Sydney.

The second person, a 14-year-old boy, was in a stable condition in hospital.

It continued a run of fatalities over the holiday weekend, with the search ongoing for two other people still

GOOD MEETING.

missing in the surf since Friday -- one off Sydney and one off Melbourne.

Surf Life Saving Australia issued a warning on Thursday that strong swells would create hazardous surf conditions along the coasts of New South Wales and Victoria. Three people drowned on Friday in New South Wales, while a woman died and a man went missing after they were swept into the sea near Melbourne.

On Saturday, when swells were as high as 3.5 meters in some places, a fisherman was swept to his death off rocks in southern New South Wales.

SLSA had released data before the weekend showing 630 people had died at beaches without an active lifesaving service over the last 10 years. AFP

IN BRIEF

Kennedy’s daughter laments ‘pain’

WASHINGTON, DC—Robert F. Kennedy’s daughter Kerry on Saturday (Sunday Manila time) described the “pain” she and her family felt on seeing photos published by the Trump administration of her father’s autopsy after his 1968 assassination.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January to declassify remaining secret files on the 1960s killings of President John F. Kennedy, his younger brother and former attorney general Robert F. Kennedy, and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Following the Friday release, remembering her father “will be hard in a new and unimaginable way,” Kerry Kennedy posted to X. “We won’t just see him as we remember him. Instead, we’ll be confronted with graphic, explicit photos of his mangled body from an autopsy report,” she added. AFP

Turkey spy chief discusses Gaza aid

ISTANBUL—Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin met Hamas leaders in Turkey during the weekend for talks about how to deliver aid to warravaged Gaza where Israel resumed its military offensive last month.

Kalin held talks with Mohammad Darwish, head of the political council of Hamas which rules Gaza and his delegation, Turkey’s Anadolu state news agency reported, saying they also spoke of initiatives to secure a permanent ceasefire and ways to counter Israeli plans to displace Gaza’s population by force.

Kalin reassured them of Turkey’s ongoing support and said Ankara would firmly oppose any new efforts to occupy or annex further Palestinian territory.

In a statement, Hamas said its leaders had stressed their willingness to “immediately reach a comprehensive prisoner exchange agreement in return for a ceasefire” as well as an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the start of reconstruction and the lifting of Israel’s blockade. AFP

Ecuador on ‘maximum alert’ over alleged plot

QUITO—Ecuador is on maximum alert over an alleged assassination plot against recently reelected President Daniel Noboa, the government said on Saturday.

Noboa won the race in an April 13 runoff vote, but his main rival Luisa Gonzalez has accused him of committing “grotesque electoral fraud.” A military intelligence report saying that assassins entering Ecuador from Mexico and other countries planned to carry out “terrorist attacks” against Noboa was leaked on social media this week.

“We strongly condemn and repudiate any intention against the life of the president of the Republic, state authorities or public officials,” Ecuador’s Ministry of Government said in a statement early Saturday.

“The state is on maximum alert,” it added. The government accused “criminal structures in complicity with political sectors defeated at the polls” of hatching the plot, though it did not offer any specific names.

Italy’s deputy Prime Minister, Matteo Salvini, carrying shopping bags, greets journalists as he walks past the Omani embassy in Rome where a second round of nuclear talks between Iran and the United States wwas held during the weekend. An Iranian delegation headed by

Malabuyo, Bruins settle for 2nd in US finals

Alcaraz, Rune race into finals in Barcelona

BARCELONA — Carlos Alcaraz

cruised into his third Barcelona Open final with a 6-2, 6-4 victory over Arthur Fils on a breezy Saturday and will face Holger Rune, who demolished Karen Khachanov.

Eight days earlier, in the Monte Carlo quarterfinals, Frenchman Fils had won the first set and forced Alcaraz to fight for victory.

On Saturday, the Spaniard took control from the start, breaking serve in the third and fifth games of the opening set as Fils struggled with the swirling conditions.

“I started the match really focused on my game and being in a good position every time to hit the right shots,” Alcaraz said after the win.

Alcaraz broke again in the third game of the second set and only stuttered when he squandered his first two match points with a double fault and a wild drive, before clinching victory.

“The wind was really tough,” Alcaraz said. “It wasn’t about playing fantastic tennis, brilliant, brilliant shots. It was about making the shots you had to do and no more than that. I did it pretty well.”

After winning in Monte Carlo last week, Alcaraz remains perfect on clay this season. He has not lost in Barcelona since 2021. He won the tournament in 2022 and 2023 before missing last year’s event with an arm injury.

“Being in a final in Barcelona again means a lot in front of my people, in front of my friends,” Alcaraz said.

“It has been really fun and a great week. Let’s see if tomorrow we’ll end with a trophy. It’s going to be really tough. I’m super excited.”

Earlier, world number 13 Rune outclassed Khachanov 6-3, 6-2.

The 21-year-old Dane did not face a break point in the first set, but broke to love in the seventh game and broke again in the ninth. AFP

5 Junior

Wolves dominate Lakers, Nuggets edge Clippers

LOS ANGELES — The Minnesota Timberwolves, fueled by 25 points from Jaden McDaniels, cruised past LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers 11795 on Saturday in game one of their NBA Western Conference playoff series.

Luka Doncic, playing his first postseason game with the Lakers after arriving in a stunning February trade, scored 37 points, and James, chasing a fifth title in his 22nd NBA season added 19 after shaking off a slow start that saw him go scoreless in the first quarter.

But the Lakers were no match for the T’Woves, who trailed by seven after the first quarter, took control in the second and never let up to score the first blow in the best-of-seven series.

Naz Reid scored 23 points off the bench -- drilling six of Minnesota’s franchise playoff-record 21 three-pointers.

Anthony Edwards added 22 points, eight rebounds and nine assists for Minnesota, who led by as many as 27.

A 10-0 Lakers run cut the deficit to 8871 in the third quarter, but the Timberwolves had an answer for every Lakers run.

“I think we just came out ready to play,” said Edwards, who had advised his teammates before the game to come out “ready to fight”.

“Everybody’s got to trust their work, trust themselves, and they did that tonight,” h e said.

Lakers coach JJ Redick said his team was “mentally ready” but didn’t respond to Minnesota’s physicality.

“I thought our spirit was right,” Redick said. “I thought even when they made runs our huddles were great, the communication was great.

“(But) when they started playing with a lot of thrust and physicality, we just didn’t respond immediately to that,” he added.

The Lakers were the only home team to lose on the opening day of first-round

action.

Nikola Jokic scored 29 points and Aaron Gordon added 25 as the Nuggets edged the Los Angeles Clippers 112-110 in an overtime thriller in Denver.

The New York Knicks put together a 21-0 scoring run in their 40-point fourth quarter to pull away for a 123-112 victory over the Detroit Pistons at Madison Square Garden. The Indiana Pacers romped to a 11798 victory over Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks.

Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Jokic added nine rebounds, 12 assists and three steals for the Nuggets, who erased an early 15-point deficit to grab the win in game one of their Western Conference series. Russell Westbrook came up big on both ends of the floor, his basket with 3:37 left in the fourth quarter giving the Nuggets their first lead since the first period. AFP

By Dennis Abrina

FIVE members of the Perpetual Ju-

nior Altas, who recently won the NCAA Season 100 championship, have committed to stay at the home and play for the school’s college team starting next season.

Team manager and University of Perpetual Help Vice President for Sports Anton Tamayo revealed that reigning Most Improved Player awardee Jericho Cristino, JD Pagulayan, Icee Callangan, TJ Tabbuan and Kelsey Baldoria have committed to join the Altas’ senior basketball team, now led by coach Olsen Racela.

The five were instrumental in Perpetual Help claiming its first juniors’ basketball title for the first time in the school’s 41-year history in the league.

By Peter Atencio

PARIS Olympics’ veteran Emma Malabuyo and the fifth-seeded University of California-Los Angeles Bruins settled for runner-up honors at the US NCAA National Gymnastics Championships on Saturday.

Second-seeded

Season and Finals’ MVP LeBron James Daep and Mythical Five member Jan Roluna, on the other hand, were mum on their next plans for now, saying they want to enjoy the moment first and be with their families in the Holy Week by returning to their provinces in Bicol and Nasipit, Agusan del Sur, respectively. Aries Borja, another member of the champion team, is undecided. Meanwhile, Batang Gilas Kurt Velasquez, Louie Rosales, Jim Corpuz, Keanne Zanoria, Lance Nitura, Kurt Patalinhug, Hanz Candido and Kakai Zamoras will remain with the team in their last playing year. The Junior Altas clinched the championship against La Salle Greenhills in a winner-take-all finals last April 15, defeating coach Ren Ren Ritualo’s players, 101-67.

“So

of this team for getting us back here and really kickstarting the next chapter of UCLA Gymnastics,” said UCLA coach Janelle McDonald.

Chiles took three of five national titles at stake, after she topped the allaround, the uneven bars and floor exercise.

Earlier, Malabuyo’s near-perfect routine led the Bruins to the national final of US NCAA National gymnastics finals on Thursday.

Malabuyo’s routine consisted of a good back handstand, layout-stepout combo at the start, ending with a pair of back handstand before finishing and a stuck landing that gave her a seasonhigh 9.975 in the beam exercises. This allowed the Bruins to upset topseeded and defending national champion Louisiana State University with their total of 197.7375 on Thursday in session two of the NCAA semifinals also at Dickies Arena in Forth Worth, Texas.

Fil-American Paris Olympian Emma Malabuyo with the UCLA Bruins at the podium

Luka Doncic (77) of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket during their 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves. AFP

MONDAY, APRIL 21, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

DILG supports Tour of Luzon: Great Revival

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has thrown its support behind the Tour of Luzon which returns after years of hiatus starting on Thursday (April 24) in Paoay, Ilocos Norte.

“The revival of this very popular cycling event in the country can foster sports consciousness capable of promoting camaraderie and the spirit of competitiveness among our people,” DILG

Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla said in a memorandum that was cascaded to involved local government units for the eight-stage tour.

“All local government units and their officials are hereby enjoined to ensure the orderly and peaceful conduct of the event,” added Remulla, who is expected to grace the opening ceremony of “The Great Revival” set late afternoon on Wednesday (April 23) along with Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, president of both the Philippine Olympic Committee and the sanctioning PhilCycling.

“We are grateful for this support from Secretary Jonvic because the Tour of Luzon isn’t just about cycling and sports, the LGUs are very much involved in this event,” said Partrick “Pató” Gregorio, chairman of organizer DuckWorld PH.

Presented by the MVP Group’s Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. headed by Chief Regulatory Officer Arrey Perez, the Tour’s executive director, the individual overall winner will bring home P500,000 with the overall team champion banking P1 million.

The Tour will cover at least 60 cities and municipalities in seven provinces in North and Central Luzon—Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Tarlac and Pampanga with special fly by at the New Clark City where an Executive Race will be staged in an out-and-back route in Clark on April 27.

Seventeen teams consisting of 119 riders are seeing action in the Tour also powered by the MVP Group’s Meralco, Metro Pacific Investment Corporation, Maynilad, Smart, PLDT, Landco Pacific Corporation and mWELL and Megaworld.

The 1,074.90-kilometer Tour of Luzon that starts on April 24 with the 190.70-km Paoay-Paoay Stage 1, 68.39-km PaoayVigan team time trial Stage 2, 130.33km Vigan-San Juan Stage 3, 162.97-km Agoo-Clark Stage 4, 166.65 Clark-Clark (via New Clark City) Stage 5, 168.19 Clark-Lingayen Stage 6, 15.14-km individual time trial Labrador-Lingayen Stage 7 and finally the queen Stage 8 which is a 172.53-km from Lingayen to the Scout Hill finish inside Camp John Hay in Baguio City.

Eala ready for Madrid Open, rises to career-best no. 71

By Peter Atencio

AFrom world no. 72 this week, the 19-year-old Eala will rise a notch to no. 71, a few days before her next tournament, the Mutua Madrid Open, which begins with its main draw on Tuesday.

“Madrid, I always like going back there. And in Rome, it will be my first time,” said Eala after wrapping up her campaign in Portugal, picking up 15 WTA points and 2835 euros (P182,533).

Eala, who earned a total of $372,640 since the beginning of her professional tournaments this year, said this in a postgame interview at the conclusion of her games in Portugal.

After the Madrid tourney, Eala will set foot in Rome for the first time for the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Italy, which

16 and fell in a 3-6, 7-6 (4), 4-6 loss to Sorana Cristea of Romania in the Madrid netfest.

will be from May 6 to 18.

“So much to look forward to. I think my goals over the clay season after the Miami Open is get better than last year,” added Eala.

The event, which is celebrating its 82nd edition this year, will have world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and No. 2 Iga Swiatek in the mix again, just like in the Miami Open, where Eala finished fourth.

A rematch of last year’s final is expected in Madrid, after Swiatek defeated Sabalenka in straight sets to capture the 2024 Rome title.

“(My goal is) to improve in the short period of time (of the clay season). And just to see myself do better,” added Eala.

Last year, Eala reached the round of

FTER exiting the Oeiras Ladies Open in Portugal, Filipina sensation Alex Eala is set to climb the World Tennis Association rankings again next week as she hopes do better in the short clay season. Taipower

In the Oeiras meet, Eala won her rain-delayed encounter with Dutch netter Anouk Koevermans, 6-3, 6-4, in the first round, but lost to Hungarian netter Panna Udvardy, 7-6 (7-4), 6-4, in the second round.

“I grew up on hard court. Games (on hard court) come natural to me,” said Eala on transitioning to clay. With her career-high rankings, Eala continues to become Southeast Asia’s top netter, with Thailand’s Mananchaya Sawangkaew behind her at no. 188.

“My game is fitted for it (hard court). And I can’t say the same for clay,” added Eala, whose recent victim in the Miami Open’s hard court, included Jelena Ostapenko, the 2017 French Open titlist, Australian Open champion Madison Keys of the United States and four-time French Open champion Iga Swiatek of Poland. So far, there is another teen outside of Eala to have debuted in the top 100 -- Australia’s Maya Joint, who at 18, reached the Top 100 on March 3 after playing in her first WTA 500 quarterfinals in Merida.

Former boxing champion Peñalosa Sr. needs financial help

By Randy M. Caluag

THE family of former World Boxing Council (WBC) International Flyweight champion Jonathan Peñalosa Sr. is urgently seeking help from friends, supporters, and the wider boxing community as he fights stage 4 colon cancer.

“We are reaching out with heavy hearts to ask for your urgent help and prayers for our father, Jonathan Peñalosa Sr.,” said his family in a heartfelt public appeal. “He recently underwent a critical surgery and has since been transferred from Manila to San Carlos Doctors Hospital, where he remains under intensive medical care.”

The family shared that mounting medical costs—including surgery, medications, hospital stays, and essential treatments—have placed an overwhelming financial burden on them.

“Despite all our efforts, we’ve reached a point where we can no longer carry the burden alone,” they added.

“We humbly ask for any financial support you can offer. No amount is too small. Your generosity will help our father continue receiving the treatment and care he so urgently needs. Most of all, we ask for your continued prayers for his healing, strength, and hope during this incredibly difficult time.”

Peñalosa is the brother of former world champion Gerry Peñalosa. As a respected coach, Jonathan played a key role in training several boxers, including Eman Bacosa—son of boxing legend Manny Pacquiao—and even contributed to Pacquiao’s preparations in many of his championship bouts.

“Coach Jonathan Peñalosa was part of my team during my 2nd to 4th professional fights. Thank you, Coach Sharp Ari Peñalosa, get well soon. God bless you,” Bacosa shared in a social media tribute. Jonathan Peñalosa retired with a professional boxing record of 15 wins, four losses, and one draw.

Gazz vs Taipower (Pool B)

7 p.m. – Zhetysu vs Creamline (Pool A)

KAOHSIUNG Taipower wasted no time making a statement in the 2025 AVC Women’s Club Volleyball Championship,

eight spikes. Hsu Wan-Yun chipped in seven points, team captain Huang Ching Hsuan tallied six, and middle blockers Hu Xiao-Pei and Pao Yin-Chi contributed five apiece in the well-balanced offensive performance. “It’s important for me as a volleyball player to gain this kind of experience. It also [matters] that our team gets to experience participating in a tournament like

KATHRYN Bugna is set for another title romp, aiming to extend her remarkable winning streak against a fresh set of rivals in two age categories at the Vistec Roxas National Juniors Tennis Championships, which unfurls today (Monday, April 21) at the Villareal Sports Complex in Capiz. With five victories across various age divisions in recent PPS-PEPP tournaments, Bugna is not just the player to watch but the one to beat in this Group 2 event. She earned the top seeding in both the girls’ 14- and 16-and-under divisions. Bugna, the pride of Batang Onay Tennis Club from Brgy. RSB La Carlota City, will face strong opposition from the likes of Abby Castigador, Mikaela Chavez and Keisha Fungo in the 14-U class, while Atila Deocampo, Anne Lentija, Ysa Quanico, Ysabella Cordovero, Joy Opaño, Rose Tubongbanua and Fungo will try to stop Bugna in the 16-U category.

Bugna recently captured two titles at MAC’s Crankit tournament in Valle Verde, Pasig, and swept three age categories in Iloilo. However, she chose to skip the 18-U division this week. This paves the way for Aleeva Suace and Frances Lozada to contend for top honors in the five-day tournament forms part of the nationwide talent search initiated by Palawan Pawnshop president and CEO Bobby Castro. In the girls’ 12-U class, Kate Chavez and Castigador are expected to lead the charge, alongside Marie Balbon, Aiyesha Tenorio, Maxine Oquendo and Grace Madjos. On the boys’ side, a fierce battle is anticipated in the 18-U division featuring Raphael Lamata, Derrick Guillano, James Perlas and Gian dela Cruz, while Anthony Castigador,

Former boxing champion boxing champ Jonathan Penalosa Sr.

Taiwanese spikers map out their strategies.

Alex Eala AFP

US tari on PH goods draws global manufacturers’ interest

By Othel V. Campos

THE relatively lower tariff imposed by the United States on Philippine goods has drawn the interest of several global manufacturers, according to the Department of Trade and Industry.

DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque said the Philippines is seeing

17% 46% 36%

US tariff on Philippine goods

US tariff on Vietnam products

US tariff on Thailand exports

MRT-3 ready to reopen today after Lent repair

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation said over the weekend that the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3 is ready to resume operations following the conclusion of its Holy Week maintenance activities.

The agency said MRT-3 personnel completed thorough cleaning, repair and installation of new components for the system.

Passenger lighting ballasts were replaced with new ones, while spare traction motors and other mechanical and electrical parts of rolling stock were subjected to repair and reconditioning, the DOTr said.

“Also, the public address and intercom system of each newbie are subjected to functional testing and preventive maintenance, which is important for a comfortable and safe journey of passengers,” the DOTr said.

The MRT-3 system’s operations were suspended from April 17 to 20 due to scheduled Holy Week maintenance. The system will reopen today, April 21, 2025.

MRT-3 served about 375,474 daily passengers in 2024. Meanwhile, the DOTr said the infl ux of passengers from the Port of Batangas to the Port of Calapan this Holy Week 2025 is being monitored.

The DOTr said the number of passengers using the Port of Calapan to cross to the Port of Batangas was expected to increase starting Saturday as vacationers in Manila and other provinces returned home.

Data from the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) showed that 1.88 million passengers were recorded during the Holy Week period, from April 12 to April 19, 2025.

renewed interest from international garment manufacturers following the announcement of a 17-percent reciprocal tariff by the United States, which is lower than those planned for other countries.

“If our tariffs are lower, definitely a lot will come in to invest or reinvest,” Roque said, adding that she is set to meet with a major garments manufacturer from Hong Kong before the end of the month.

The company is reportedly considering transferring part of its production or expanding its existing operations in the country.

Roque said discussions are

underway, noting that the potential investor is exploring ways to strengthen and grow production in the Philippines.

“The people are already talking to us. They’re planning to grow it already here in the Philippines. So, they’re transferring some of their operations,” she said.

The US on April 2 announced tariffs ranging from 10 percent to 49 percent on ASEAN goods. These include 49 percent on Cambodia, 46 percent on Vietnam, 44 percent on Myanmar, 36 percent on Thailand, 32 percent on Indonesia, 24 percent

on Malaysia and Brunei, 17 percent on the Philippines and 10 percent on Singapore and Timor-Leste.

Roque said while the 17-percent tariff on the Philippines is expected to remain in place for now, she cautioned against making assumptions. “It’s hard to say. It’s hard for us to speculate. The best is really to just wait,” she said. She said, however, the situation has opened a window for the Philippines to attract more interest from global manufacturers looking to diversify their production hubs.

By Jimmy L. Montejo

DESPITE being ranked among the country’s top billionaires by Forbes, Betty Ang, president of snacks giant Monde Nissin, with an estimated net worth of $695 million, keeps a low profile to a fault.

Her social engagements are few and far between. She rarely obliges to media interviews, but never loses sight of her corporate objectives. Early on, Forbes said Ang “remains a most elusive, mysterious tycoon” despite her year-by-year inclusion in the list of the Philippines’ richest people. It was also noted that Ang and her closest staff do not respond to emails or phone calls, and that the company website “makes no mention of her or its nine-member board of directors.”

Not pretty much therefore is publicly known about her personal affairs, except that this mother of six children graduated from the Assumption College with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, major in Business Management. Ang and her father-in-law, Indonesian Hidayat Darmono, founded

Monde Nissin in 1979 as Monde Denmark Nissin Biscuit Corp. Her husband, Hoediono Kweefanus, is Darmono’s second son. The Darmono family owned Khong Guan Biscuit Factory in Indonesia.

Under Ang’s stewardship, Monde Nissin grew by leaps and bounds, and 10 years later, the company launched its flagship noodle product Lucky Me! which eventually grew to be a household name in the country.

In1999, the company was renamed Monde Nissin Corp. Eventually, its product portfolio diversified to include baked goods, dairy products and health foods, with the flagship brands also expanding to cover SkyFlakes, Fita, Nissin, M.Y. San Grahams, Mama Sita and Dutch Mill.

Just like any other corporate journey, Monde Nissin had its roller coaster ride. In 2023, the company incurred a P625-million net loss on account of a significant sales drop by Quorn, an Englandbased meat substitute offering which it acquired.

Nonetheless, Monde Nissin’s chief executive, Henry Soesanto, remained

Biscuit and noodle tycoon: Betty Ang of Monde Nissin

upbeat on the long-term potentials of “sustainable and clean-label alternative proteins”.

Another major alteration came in the form of the company’s divestment of its 15-percent share in Figaro Coffee with a current value of P721.5 million, representing a net loss of nearly P100 million when it acquired the stake at P820 million in 2023.

“We had hoped investing in Figaro would help us enter this consumer segment, but it has not been successful,” Soesanto said. Letting go of Figaro was a strategic shift for Monde Nission. It didn’t take long for the firm to announce its entry into the non-traditional packaged coconut milk market with the launch of Goodnom Fresh Gata.

Coconut milk, locally known as gata, is a widely popular culinary ingredient in the country.

Fresh coconut milk is a widely used culinary ingredient in the Philippines, traditionally sourced from wet markets.

Soesanto said processed or packaged gata is a fast-growing segment, with household penetration still low at 9 percent. However, the consumption of coconut milk dishes has increased, rising to 20 percent from 15 percent last year, study showed. Meanwhile, Ang stayed the course of her corporate leadership, even extending her activities beyond the confines of the boardroom to pursue corporate social responsibility concerns, making substantial contributions to community empowerment.

Groups warn of prevalent substandard steel

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine Iron and Steel Institute (PISI) and the Steel and Stainless Steel Marketing Association of the Philippines Inc. (SASSMAPI) raised the alarm over the alleged widespread circulation of substandard steel products across the country, following separate test-buy operations conducted in early 2025. Tested in Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-accredited laboratories to ensure impartiality, random purchases of steel reinforcing bars (under

Monde Nissin president Betty Ang.

Stock market expected to move sideways amid volatility

PHILIPPINE stocks are expected move sideways, after last week’s shortened trading as regional markets remain volatile due to developments overseas.

Philstocks Financial Inc. research head Japhet Tantiangco said the local market is on a fiveweek losing streak, as global trade war fears take over sentiment. Despite the market volatility, the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) has managed to stay above the 6,000 level.

“At its current position, the market is deemed to be at attractive levels. Hence, we may see episodes of bargain-hunting,” Tantiangco said.

He said hopes of further easing by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas may also compel investors to take positions this week. He said, however, worries over the global economy amid the US protectionist policies and the possibility of retaliation by other countries may continue to weigh on sentiment.

“Investors are also expected to maintain a cautious stance especially by the end of the shortened trading week as they take into consideration the uncertainties on the days the market is closed,” he said.

The local market’s support is seen at 6,000 this week. Resistance is expected at 6,400.

The PSEi inched up by 0.86 percent to close at 6,134.62 last week, while the broader allshares index rose 0.97 percent to 3,656.99.

Average daily turnover thinned to P4.39 billion from the previous week’s average of P9.9 billion as the market was closed on Thursday and Friday. Jenniffer B. Austria

Ayala hires 7 banks to raise P20b from shares offering

By Jenniffer B. Austria

CONGLOMERATE

Ayala Corp. hired seven banks to handle its planned P20billion preferred shares offering in June 2025.

Ayala engaged BDO Capital Investments Corp., BPI Capital Corp., Chinabank Capital, First Metro Investments Corp., PNB Capital, RCBC Capital Corp. and Security Bank Capital as joint lead underwriters and book runners for the offering, based on the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The conglomerate will issue the preferred shares with a base amount of P10 billion and an oversubscription

option for another P10 billion.

Tentative offer period will run from June 2 to 6, 2025, while the issue date in on June 18, 2025.

The deal is subject to regulatory approvals.

Ayala will use the net proceeds from the offering to fund the refinancing of peso-denominated obligations and corporate general purposes.

Assuming the base offer and oversubscription will be sold, Ayala will spend P11.3 billion to repay shortterm loans with Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and P1.3 billion for partial repayment of another shortterm loan with BPI.

The remaining P7.26 billion will be used for general corporate purposes and capital expenditures.

The conglomerate earlier said it earmarked P230 billion for 2025 capital expenditures primarily to support the expansion plans of its core real

SM makes inroads in cultural site preservation to create lasting impact

SM is making inroads in the restoration of cultural landmarks that underscores its commitment beyond financial growth to create lasting social impact.

SM, through the Henry Sy Foundation and SM Foundation, said it recently completed the restoration of the West Visayas State University’s (WVSU) Quezon Hall in Iloilo City, a bona fide educational and architectural landmark protected under the 2009 National Heritage Act, as identified by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP).

SM said it has long been complementing its business expansion across the country with initiatives that foster growth and well-being in the communities they are in, with the restoration

of architectural icons among its recent social investments.

“These cultural landmarks are irreplaceable—once lost, we cannot bring them back,” said SM Foundation executive director Deborah Sy.

“Preservation is a collective responsibility. It goes beyond installing commemorative plaques; it means breathing new life into these spaces so they continue to serve, inspire, and remain accessible to future generations,” said Sy. The restoration project strictly adhered to the guidelines set by the NHCP to ensure its structural and cultural integrity.

While keeping the building’s original character intact, modern sustainable features were mindfully integrated, including energy-efficient lighting, inverter air conditioning units, and the use of paint with light reflective finishes to optimize energy consumption.

estate, power generation and telecommunication businesses.

Bulk of this year’s spending will go to the group’s property unit Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) which earmarked P95 billion to roll out more malls, hotels and residential projects.

Power generation unit ACEN Corp. will receive P70 billion, up 44 percent from last year’s P48.7 billion to support incoming pipeline projects.

Globe Telecom Inc. will also spend P46.6 billion, lower than 2024 spending of P56.2 billion, while AC Mobility will spend P3.8 billion this year, up by 125 percent from P1.7 billion in 2024 as it ramps up inventory, dealership and EV charging infrastructure.

Ayala’s net income rose 10 percent in 2024 to P42 billion. Excluding one-off items, core net income increased 10 percent to an all-time high of P45 billion.

Meralco reports 1.5% increase in first-quarter sales

By Alena Mae S. Flores

POWER retailer Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) reported a 1.5-percent increase in consolidated distribution utility energy sales volumes in the first quarter to 12,493 gigawatt-hours from 12,307 GWh a year ago, driven by higher residential sales.

Meralco senior vice president and chief revenue officer Ferdinand Geluz said over the weekend residential sales climbed to 4,257 GWh in the first quarter, representing a 3-percent growth from 4,144 GWh in first quarter 2024, underpinned by sustained momentum from energization efforts and observed high heat index in the franchise area.

Geluz said commercial sales posted a slight 1-percent increase to 4,744 GWh in the first quarter from 4,679 GWh a year earlier, led by robust demand from consumer-facing establishments amid a slowdown in real estate.

“Industrial sales in Q1 were flat, inching up only 0.2 percent to 3,455 GWh from 3,448 GWh in Q1 2024, as gains from growth pillar sectors non-metallic, semiconductor, and plastics was muted by downturn in food & beverage and steel,” he said.

Geluz said Meralco is optimistic that DU energy sales would pick up in the second quarter, continuing to the second half, to reach the target of 4.5 percent by yearend.

He said this would be driven by the expected boost from higher consumer spending during midterm elections, better economy from lower inflation and interest rates as well as anticipated recovery in occupancy in real estate.

Meralco forecast better growth in the second quarter, but is “still assessing the forecast range,” he said.

“For April we are already seeing notable increase in net system input [energy] delivered to the Meralco system , a leading indicator that energy consumption is increasing,” Geluz said.

ITALPINAS Development Corp.(IDC), a real estate developer focused on green projects, doubled its net income and sales in 2024 on continued rollout of real estate projects.

IDC said in a statement net income reached P376.8 million, up 102.2 percent from the previous year’s P186.3 million, while revenues grew 100.6 percent to P600.26 million from P299.11 million in 2023.

IDC attributed the strong financial results to the robust sales of ongoing projects like Primavera City Verde

in Cagayan De Oro and Miramonti 1 in Sto. Tomas Batangas. The property firm said its strategy for focusing in emerging locations has paid off with the significant generated sales from these flagship projects during the year.

This is the result of a combined efforts to increase gross margin and reduction of certain fixed cost such as project management, administrative and marketing cost and interest expense.

Another significant contribution is the gain on appraisal of the company’s investment properties recognized in 2024, which reflects the rise in their fair market value during the year.

IDC said it is poised for continuous growth, with plans to expand into several new prime locations across the country, including Palawan, Boracay, Bataan and Bukidnon.

It also identified additional target acquisitions for future developments in Southern Lu -

zon and Visayas. These new flagship projects aim to deliver IDC’s signature eco-friendly, sustainable, and innovative developments, further cementing its position as a leader in the real estate market.

IDC last week reported that it was selling its 25-percent interest in a renewable energy development firm Constellation Energy Corp. for P6.5 million.

The move is in line with the company’s direction to focus on core real estate business.

Constellation Energy is a renewable energy development firm with development projects in hydroelectric, geothermal and wind technologies.

“The sale of our minority stake in Constellation Energy allows IDC to fully focus on our core real estate business. It streamlines and simplifies financial reporting, and eliminates

SM, through the Henry Sy Foundation and SM Foundation, completes the restoration of West Visayas State University’s (WVSU) Quezon Hall in Iloilo City. SM has been complementing its business expansion across the country with initiatives that foster growth and well-being in the communities they are in, with the restoration of architectural icons among its recent social investments.

Pan Pacific investing P261b for hydro project

By Alena Mae S. Flores

PAN Pacific Renewable Power Phils. Corp. said it plans to develop the 2,000-megawatt Maton pumped storage hydro power project (Maton PSHPP) in Barangay Upper Maton and Barangay Lt. Balag, Pudtol, Apayao province with an estimated capital investment of P261.7 billion

Pan Pacific said in documents submitted to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources the Maton PSHPP intends to build a reservoir along the Maton River, a tributary of the Apa-

yao-Abulug River. It will be developed simultaneously with the Gened-1 hydro power project (Gened-1 HPP). It said the project would be connected to the Luzon grid, providing

PH under threat of avian u with three active cases in Luzon

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippines is grappling with a rising threat from avian influenza (AI), with recent reports confirming three active H5N1 cases affecting nine farms across Tarlac, Pampanga and Nueva Ecija.

A broiler breeder farm in Leyte also reported the loss of 4,475 birds from a flock of 60,259 due to an outbreak.

The disease has affected 99 municipalities across the country this year, with outbreaks in Pampanga, Kalinga, Nueva Ecija, Bataan and Leyte, according to the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI) and Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines).

“The poultry industry plays a vital role in ensuring a stable food supply and supporting the economic sustainability of rural communities in the Philippines,” said GPPCCI president Marie Antoinette Mariano in a recent forum organized the German group and Boeringher.

She said the disease also poses a significant public health risk, with 887 H5N1

infections and 462 fatalities reported globally since 2003, while the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of the virus’s potential to mutate, further heightening concerns.

Germany is continuing to support the Philippines in combating bird flue, with the help of German Embassy economic counselor David Klebs.

“Immediate action is needed to control the disease’s spread and protect both the agricultural sector and public health,” he said.

The German firm said the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain poses significant risks to both animal and human health, threatening the country’s poultry production and livelihoods.

It said the country’s P68.76-billion poultry sector plays a vital role in the Philippine economy, providing jobs and contributing to agricultural output.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) issued a regional alert warning on Aug. 12, 2024 that ongoing outbreaks could drive up production costs and consumer prices, leading to supply shortages.

a storage capacity of 20,000 megawatt-hours.

Pan Pacific, 100-percent owned by FPSP (Holdings Corp.), was awarded by the Department of Energy the right to develop the Maton hydro project through Hydropower Service contract No. 2022-02-918 on March 25, 2022.

The DOE approved the amendment of the project scheme to a pumped storage project from run-of-river on Dec. 27, 2024.

“The project will contribute to grid stability and function as an energy storage, facilitating the increased integration of variable renewable ener-

gy into the National Grid in line with the energy transition goals of the Department of Energy, specifically the Clean Energy Scenario [CES] target of achieving 50 percent renewable energy by 2040,” the company said.

The proposed Maton PSHPP is seen to provide a clean and sustainable alternative source of energy and a long-term solution to the increasing demand for power.

Pan Pacific said the project was conceptualized based on the Department of Energy’s (DOE) thrusts for energy security, low carbon future, increased investments in the energy sector and employment generation.

“With the operation of the Maton PSHPP, Pan Pacific intends to augment the foreseen power shortage in the future,” it said.

“The development of the Maton PSHPP will aid in increasing the share of hydropower in the country’s energy mix and developing new sources to achieve energy sustainability. Fuel diversification for power generation in the country by source and type will contribute in protecting consumers from contingencies such as fuel scarcity, price fluctuations, and changes in regulatory practices that can drive up the cost of fuels,” Pan Pacific said.

The brain muscles AI is making us forget to use

GREEN LIGHT

Adrian A. Mabalay

HAY naku! These days, AI like ChatGPT can write essays and solve math problems in seconds. As teachers, we are scratching our heads and asking: “How do we really know if our students are learning?” Digital exams and take-home assignments are super easy to cheat on now. It’s not a question of if students use AI—many already do—but how we should adjust our teaching to this new reality.

I’ve seen this problem in my classes. This trimester, my colleague shared something interesting. Her students who took online quizzes from abroad had almost perfect scores, while those who took the same test with pen and paper got much lower remarks. Suspicious, diba?

What’s more revealing is what we see in Canvas, an online learning management system. It can track student activity during online exams. That colleague showed me the activity log of one student abroad who aced the quiz. Canvas recorded multiple instances of “Stopped viewing the quiz-taking page” then “Resumed,” repeatedly. This student was clearly switching between the quiz and other windows—probably consulting AI or other resources.

Another red flag is with reflection papers. These are supposed to be personal accounts of learning experiences—the kind of writing that should come from one’s heart. But lately, many sound artificial and overly polished. Another professor, also a colleague of mine, noticed the same. Even students who struggled all throughout the term were submitting flawless essays online. The pattern was too obvious to ignore.

So, I’ve been thinking about something that might sound old-fashioned: going back to traditional testing methods like pen-and-paper exams, handwritten essays and oral exams. This isn’t just because I am feeling nostalgic for the good old days—it is, I believe, a practical solution to a real problem.

Think about the simple pen-and-paper test. When students take exams in person with no gadgets allowed, they have to use what’s actually in their brains. No ChatGPT to rescue them! Writing by hand also helps with memory and thinking. Scientists say our brains work differently when we write by hand compared to typing.

There is also something more serious happening that worries me. Many scientists call it the “muscle atrophy effect” of AI in the brain. Just like how muscles get weak when we don’t use them, our brains, although an organ, can lose cognitive strength when AI does our thinking for us. When students constantly rely on AI for writing and critical analysis, those mental

—“—

Just like how muscles get weak when we don’t use them, our brains, although an organ, can lose cognitive strength when AI does our thinking for us.

muscles don’t get exercised. Over time, this dependency could weaken their ability to think deeply on their own.

Written essays done in the classroom work the same way. Students can’t just ask AI to fix their grammar or organize their thoughts. They have to really understand the topic to write about it clearly on the first try. No delete button, no AI editor—just their own knowledge and skills.

For reflection papers specifically, having students write it in class shows more authentic voices— some with grammatical errors, but with genuine insights that truly reflect their learning journey.

But for me, the best traditional method is the oral exam. Doing more oral questioning, individually or by group, really shows who knows their stuff. When you ask follow-up questions based on their answers, students can’t just recite memorized AI content. They have to think on their feet. Even the smartest AI can’t help them in a real-time conversation.

These traditional methods also help with student health by reducing screen time and teaching important communication skills. They build confidence for job interviews and prepare students for the workplace, where thinking under pressure is super important.

Of course, there are downsides. These methods take more time and might be harder for some students with disabilities. And yes, we still need to teach students how to use technology since that is part of the real world. Maybe the best is to mix old and new methods.

As we figure this out together, let us remember that tests aren’t just about grades—they are about actual learning. As we try to bring back some traditional methods while still using technology wisely, we can make sure our students are really learning, not just letting AI do the work. Going back to basics doesn’t mean we’re anti-technology. It just means we’re making sure our students can think for themselves, even when they have AI tools to help them. Sometimes, the old ways still work best!

Adrian Mabalay is a faculty member at the Department of Management and Organization of the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University. He can be reached at adrian. mabalay@dlsu.edu.ph.

The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.

AGRICULTURE Secretary Francisco

Tiu Laurel Jr. and Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon agreed to expedite the development of a food hub on a property owned by Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) to centralize the storage, processing, and distribution of agricultural goods while ensuring efficient access for farmers, traders and buyers.

Tiu Laurel confirmed following a recent inspection that around 47 hectares were identified for the project, with an initial 12-hectare development estimated to cost about P2 billion.

“Access to the entire area remains challenging. But a 12-hectare section could be suffi cient for initial development, considering our current budget and timelines,” he said.

He said the proposed hub is smaller than Thailand’s 50-hectare agricultural distribution center, but said that if construction begins soon, the hub could be operational within 18 months.

Dizon, who also chairs CIAC, called the initiative a potential “game-changer” for Philippine agriculture and food logistics, citing Clark’s strategic location near the Subic Seaport, the Subic-Clark Expressway, and Clark International Airport (CRK).

He said the concept was initially proposed by French firm Semmaris, operator of the Rungis International Market near Paris.

The plan stalled after Semmaris’s local partner pulled out due to high relocation costs tied to the original site.

With renewed government backing, both offi cials are optimistic that the long-delayed project would fi nally break ground and modernize the country’s food value chain.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is also eyeing other locations nationwide to establish similar hubs to boost farm productivity, stabilize supply and prices, raise farmers’ incomes and attract investments. Othel V. Campos

MANAGEMENT RETREAT. As part of the Lenten o ering to both Philex Mining Corp. and Silangan Mindanao Mining Co. Inc., president and chief executive Eulalio Austin Jr. conducts separate management retreats with the managers of both companies at the Padcal mine in Benguet and Silangan Project Site in Surigao del Norte, respectively. This gave managers the opportunity to learn from the knowledge and experience of Austin, who has been a licensed mining engineer for the past 43 years and the president of Philex since 2012, and to use these as

San Miguel toll road unit registers 10% profit growth

By Darwin G. Amojelar

SMC Tollways Corp. said over the weekend its net income rose 10 percent in 2024 on the back of higher vehicle traffic volume.

The company said net income amounted to P9.23 billion last year, up from P8.40 million in 2023. Total revenue rose 4 percent to P21.17 billion from P20.26 billion. “Higher revenue was mainly due to higher traffic volume,” SMC Tollways said.

SMC Skyway Corp. achieved an annual average

Tourists asked to be vigilant vs. travel scams, bogus deals

By Othel V. Campos

SCAM Watch Pilipinas, in partnership with the Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNPACG), asked Filipinos to stay alert against travel-related scams.

Scam Watch Pilipinas co-founder Jocel de Guzman cited the group’s efforts to raise awareness, including their seasonal campaigns targeting various scams.

“We’re once again reminding the public to stay vigilant against these scams, which range from fake accommodations to bogus travel deals. Awareness is key in the fight against scammers,” de Guzman said.

He said this season’s focus is on the “14 Travel Scams”, following their “12 Scams of Christmas” and “8 Love Scam Profiles” for Valentine’s Day. Among the 14 scams identified are deceptive offers for fake accommodations at low rates, Wi-Fi hotspots designed to steal personal data and flight and hotel deals that disappear after payment.

They also warned travelers about ‘free’ vacation traps, fraudulent travel agents, overpriced tours, charity cons, counterfeit cash, hidden CCTV cameras and fake taxis charging inflated fees. On social media, scams include false sales of lost luggage, fake SIM cards and cheap flight tickets, he said. Scammers posing as fixers at transport hubs continue to target unsuspecting travelers, the group said.

daily traffic (AADT) of 276,850, up by 2 percent from 272,383 in 2023, while SMC Skyway Stage 3 Corp. achieved an AADT of 163,031, higher by 5 percent than 154,736 in 2023.

Consolidated operating expenses went down by 0.02 percent mainly due to lower representation expense due to lesser external meetings, decrease in contracted services due to lower manpower services, decrease in cost of utilities due to lower consumption of power and water, lower insurance expense, seminars and trainings and other expenses.

‘These were offset by the increase in management fees due to inflationary increase, and higher personnel costs due to salary adjustments and related benefits,” SMC Tollways said.

SMC Tollways budgeted P11.33 billion for

2024 capital expenditure to partially finance the expansion of their existing expressway network and construction of a new toll road.

The company said a significant portion of the capex would go towards the TR4 project. The 66.74-kilometer toll road will connect Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Lucena City, Quezon.

Upon completion by 2026, the P50-billion project would significantly reduce travel time between the two points from three hours to 45 minutes.

The toll road will be divided into six sections including Sto Tomas, Batangas to Makban in Laguna (11.32 km.); Makban to San Pablo City (12.75 km.); San Pablo to Tiaong in Quezon (7.5 km.); Tiaong to Candelaria (15 km.); Candelaria to Tayabas (10.21 km.); and Tayabas to Lucena (9.96 km.).

IN BRIEF

Swine industry stakeholders agree to observe pork price

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) and stakeholders from the swine industry agreed to strengthen enforcement of the maximum suggested retail prices (MSRP) for pork, with the private sector vowing to police its ranks and curb profiteering.

The renewed commitment came after a consultative meeting on April 14, 2025, following DA market inspections that revealed alarmingly low compliance, with fewer than 10 percent of sell-

ers found observing the MSRPs.

The DA set the MSRP at P300 per kilogram for freshly slaughtered carcass, P350 for pigue (leg/ham) and kasim or pig shoulder and P380 for liempo or pork belly.

Agriculture Undersecretary for livestock Dante Palabrica cited the importance of honoring the gentleman’s agreement made in earlier talks to avoid more disruptive interventions.

He said the MSRPs are designed to

Maynilad invests P4.79b to replace 142 km. of old pipes

West zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services Inc. (Maynilad) said it invested about P4.79 billion in 2024 to replace 142 kilometers of aging and leaky pipelines across its concession area. The initiative supports the company’s efforts to improve water service reliability and reduce system losses.

“Rehabilitating our inherited pipeline network is central to our long-term water security strategy. By proactively upgrading old infrastructure, we can reduce losses, optimize supply and deliver more consistent service to our customers,” said Maynilad president and chief executive Ramoncito Fernandez.

The pipe replacement projects were carried out in key areas including Muntinlupa, Las Piñas, Parañaque, Pasay, Makati, Quezon City and Caloocan.

The upgrade involved replacing pipelines installed between 1986 and 2008, with diameters ranging from 50 mm. to 700 mm.

Maynilad said because of the pipe replacement, it recovered around 37 million liters per day (MLD) of potable water in 2024, enough to supply over 230,000 customers daily.

Since its re-privatization in 2007, the company has replaced 3,264 kilometers of old pipelines, equivalent to the distance between the Philippines and Japan.

This accounts for about 70 percent of the distribution network it inherited from the government, which included sections dating back to the colonial era.

Maynilad is the largest private water concessionaire in the Philippines by customer base.

It operates under the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) as the concessionaire for the west zone of the Greater Manila Area, which includes parts of Manila, Quezon City, Makati, and several other cities and municipalities in Metro Manila and Cavite. Othel V. Campos

balance the interests of producers, traders, retailers and consumers amid persistent inflationary pressures.

As part of long-term solutions, Palabrica also announced the rollout of a P1-billion swine repopulation program approved by Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr.

The program will distribute around 30,000 gilts to large farms, which will repay the government by providing reared pigs for distribution to backyard farmers.

Tiu Laurel called on the industry to support the government’s three-year plan to rebuild the national hog inventory to 14 million heads by 2028, up from the current estimate of 8 million. To help stabilize pork prices in the near term, the DA’s Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) also started purchasing 500 pigs daily from large farms and delivering them directly to slaughterhouses, ensuring a steady supply and reinforcing compliance with price guidelines. Othel V. Campos

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the International Finance Corp. (IFC) agreed to jointly develop the country’s movable finance market to improve credit access for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the agricultural sector.

Under a memorandum of understanding signed on March 17, 2025, the BSP and IFC will collaborate to advance the market by promoting movable asset finance (MAF).

MAF is an innovative lending approach that allows borrowers to secure loans using movable assets, such as inventories, receivables and equipment.

The approach is designed to benefit borrowers who lack real property to serve as loan collateral, particularly those from the MSME and agricultural sectors. Set to run until 2027, the partnership between the BSP

and IFC will focus on regulatory reform, sector capacity building and supporting services development.

“The BSP looks forward to working with IFC to build a dynamic MAF ecosystem. With this, MSMEs and agrienterprises can use their available assets to access financing for their working capital and other needs,” said BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr.

BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said the partnership aligns with vision of financial inclusion toward inclusive growth

QR CODE. Parañaque City Mayor Eric Olivarez (center) scans a QR code to pay his purchase from a meat vendor (right). With him is Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Managing Director Charina De Vera-Yap (left). Parañaque launched the ‘Paleng-QR Ph Plus’ program on March 14, 2025 to promote cashless payments in the city’s public markets, local transport and other business establishments.

DoubleDragon on track to complete hotel in Madrid this December

HOTEL101-Madrid, a major international hotel project by DoubleDragon Corp., is on track for completion in December 2025.

The 680-room hotel, which is being developed by Filipino business leaders Mang Inasal Founder Injap Sia and Jollibee Founder Tony Tan Caktiong, has officially topped off, marking an important milestone in the project’s development.

The project completion will coincide with the highly anticipated Formula 1 Grand Prix in Madrid.

Located in the prime Valdebebas area of Madrid, the hotel is set to become one of the city’s top five largest hotels. With its strategic positioning just minutes from key landmarks, including the Valdebebas Train Station, IFEMA convention complex, Real Madrid Sports Complex, and the Madrid Barajas International Airport, Hotel101-Madrid will offer both convenience and accessibility for travelers, especially those attending major events like the F1 Grand Prix.

The hotel is being built on a

6,593-square-meter commercial property, with modern accommodations and amenities designed for both business and leisure travelers. Its opening will provide a significant boost to Madrid’s hospitality offerings, aligning with the city’s growing international profile.

Hotel101-Madrid is part of DoubleDragon’s larger vision to establish a network of hotels across the world.

The company’s long-term goal is to operate one million rooms across more than 100 countries. The Madrid project marks the first step in this ambitious expansion, with the company already targeting 25 priority countries, including Spain, the Philippines, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and other key markets in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

The opening of Hotel101-Madrid in December 2025 will be a milestone for both the brand and the hospitality industry, bringing Filipino-led innovation to the global stage and offering guests a modern, efficient, and accessible hotel experience.

Condo demand rises as residential market recovers

THE Philippine residential market showed signs of a moderate recovery in the first quarter of 2025, with a 14 percent increase in condominium demand, according to the latest report from Leechiu Property Consultants. This growth was driven by favorable policy rate cuts and attractive developer promotions, contributing to a total of 6,508 units taken up in Metro Manila.

LPC said the recent policy rate cuts implemented by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and the anticipation of more, have helped ease buyer concerns and fuel property acquisitions.

But while demand picked up, new residential launches saw a sharp decline, dropping by 77 percent in first quarter of the year with only 1,347 units launched compared to 5,928 in the previous quarter.

LPC said developers are still focusing on marketing their existing inventory, particularly in the mid-range segment, before rolling out new projects. This cautious approach comes as the residential real estate market continues to recover from the pandemic.

According to LPC there are still 81,400 unsold residential units available in the Metro Manila market. which is equivalent to 38 months or three years of supply.

“We’ve seen a good start for the year for the residential market. But we need to move with caution for now due to very recent developments in the world capital markets,” LPC research director Roy Golez said.

To attract buyers, Golez said developers need to be more aggressive with their marketing, their promos, payment terms.

“For buyers, this will be a good time to research and take a deeper dive and look at the developer offerings. There might be a short window of opportunity to acquire property at favorable terms while supply is not yet at comfortable levels,” he added.

Golez however expressed concern that the recent global capital markets crash could temper recovering of residential demand.

Vis-Min buyers snap up CLI condo units

THE real estate market in the Visayas and Mindanao (VisMin) region continues to show strong growth, as Cebu Landmasters Inc. (CLI) reported the near sell-out of its latest condominium project in Cagayan de Oro City.

One Manresa Place drew a strong response from buyers, highlighting the rising demand for high-quality residential spaces outside Metro Manila. The three-tower residential complex project located within the 14.6-hectare Manresa Town, was nearly 90-percent sold, earning P5 billion in sales equivalent to 823 units within just two weeks from launch.

“We are energized by the overwhelming response to One Manresa Place,”said CLI chairman and chief executive Jose Soberano III.

“This affirms the region’s readiness for more high-value developments, proving that demand in VisMin remains strong and underserved.”

Growing confidence

The quick take-up of units in One Manresa Place reflects strong market confidence in CLI’s vision for integrated, communitycentered living. Located beside Xavier University’s future Masterson Campus, the project is designed for students,

professionals and families who seek modern, sustainable homes in a well-planned township.

Featuring open spaces, sky gardens, co-working areas and wellness facilities, the development combines comfort with green living. It has already sold most of its units, joining a long list of successful CLI residential projects across major Visayas and Mindanao cities.

Set to be completed by 2030, One Manresa Place has studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units tailored to contemporary urban living.

Studio units cost from P4.6 million to P7 million, onebedroom units from P 5.6 million to P 12.8 million and two-bedroom units from P16 million to P18.5 million.

The units all have floor-toceiling windows, private balconies and flexible spaces to attract a wide range of tenants and buyers,

including students, professionals and families.

VisMin’s real estate CLI’s strong performance in Cagayan de Oro mirrors the broader trend in the region. Most of the company’s residential inventory in Vis-Min cities has already been sold, showing deep and consistent demand.

The region also holds a large portion of the country’s 6.7 million housing backlog, underlining the need for more residential developments.

To meet the continued strong demand, the property firm is expanding further in cities like Cebu and Davao, launching new residential, commercial and hotel projects.

As CLI continues to grow its presence, it remains committed to building well-designed, sustainable communities that support the long-term growth of the Vis-Min region.

OneManresa Place is situated in Manresa Town, a 14.6-hectare vibrant university township seamlessly connected with

Xavier University Masterson Campus, dubbed as ‘Campus of the Future’, and Uptown CDO.

Making a multi-billion peso debut, CLI’s One Manresa Place in

OneManresa Place is composed of three towers with a total of 940

bedroom units.

Mang Inasal Founder Injap Sia and Jollibee Founder Tony Tan Caktiong conduct the Topping Off Ceremony of the 680-room Hotel101-Madrid

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Nora’s performance in

Nora Aunor’s star shone the brightest in her time

By Eton Concepcion

MILLIONS of Filipinos

mourn the passing of the one and only Superstar Nora Aunor . It’s hard to believe that Ate Guy, as she was fondly called, is gone forever.

Aunor, Nora Cabaltera Villamayor in real life, is one of the greatest actresses, if not the greatest, the country has ever produced. Testament to this is her being conferred the ultimate National Artist Award in 2022 for Film and Broadcast Arts, the first bestowed upon a female actor in the local film industry, hailed for her extensive filmography that is exceeded only by the number of awards and citations she has received from local and international organizations.

Aunor’s rise to fame was nothing short of phenomenal — from the poor little girl who sold water to train passengers in Bicol station to her winning in the Tawag ng Tanghalan singing competition, and to her remarkable transformation into a highcaliber actor.

A tribute to the great Aunor will not be complete without giving some of her best works in film — or should we call Aunor’s Ten Best.

In National Artist Gerardo de Leon ’s last completed film, Banaue (1975), where Aunor, playing an Ifugao mountain tribe female warrior, earned the veteran director’s respect.

In Mario O’Hara ’s masterpiece Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos (1976), Aunor gave a bravura performance of a country girl caught in the horrors of the Second World

By Chong Ardivilla

IN THE American pop media landscape, there is a plot motivation called “Woman in Fridge.” This is taken from the DC Comics Green Lantern when the superhero goes into a flying rage when he sees that his beloved girlfriend is decapitated and her dead body is stuffed inside the refrigerator.

This becomes a pivotal moment for the superhero. This shows that the motivation for a hero’s journey is borne out of a dead woman’s body. This is basically what the movie The Amateur (2025, directed by James Hawes) is all about.

The lead is Rami Malek , a technology and security expert for the CIA. His wife, the brilliant but underused Rachel Brosnahan , falls prey to a terror attack.

What comes next is the caper brought by “If you want something

War, a game-changer for Aunor, winning her first major acting award at the 1st Urian Awards.

In Lupita Kashiwahara ’s classic Minsa’y Isang Gamu-gamo (1976), Aunor moved audiences in her heart-tugging ‘my brother is not pig’ dramatic scene — a gem of acting that should be kept in a time capsule.

In Eddie Garcia ’s best film Atsay (1978), where Aunor turned in a muted, restrained performance, using only her eyes, gave her the lone category Best Performer award at the 4th Metro Manila Film Festival.

In National Artist Lino Brocka ’s Ina Ka ng Anak Mo (1979), as a daughter betrayed by her own mother played by Lolita Rodriguez , Brocka, helming Aunor for the first time, commented that even her back was acting.

In National Artist Ishmael Bernal’ s magnum opus , Experimental Cinema of the Philippines’ Himala (1982), Aunor, born to play the role of the fake faith healer Elsa, was unequalled in the film’s “Walang himala” climactic denouement scene.

In Elwood Perez ’s quintessential Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit (1989), Aunor gave a master class

done, do it yourself.” Malek’s CIA superiors plod their feet regarding the progress of the investigation. Malek then goes into a montage of self-improvement, from awkward, mousy technology expert to vigilante. This is conveniently like Batman because of the technology afforded by the CIA, but also like James Bond , with relatively weaker muscle mass.

The movie becomes a shell of a caper and chase because Malek is charmless in this movie. Is he neurodivergent? It is implied. You would know the killers were ticked off if you had seen the trailer. But it gets to be so improbable that one has to watch it for the acting chops of the supporting cast instead. This would be Laurence Fishburne as Malek’s assigned “trainer.” There’s Jon Bernthal as a rugged agent. But the pièce de résistance would be Michael Stuhlbarg as the mastermind.

performance, riveting in a love-hate relationship story, co-starring with original screen partner Tirso Cruz III

In Joel Lamangan ’s controversial, reallife The Flor Contemplacion Story (1995), Aunor’s highly acclaimed performance won her the Princess Pataten Award for Best Actress at the 19th Cairo International Film Festival — the oldest and the biggest in the Arab world — making her the first Filipino actor to win in a major international film festival.

In Brocka’s classic Bona (1980), where Aunor played a young girl infatuated with a bit player, was screened at the Directors’ Fortnight of the Cannes Film Festival in 1981. Aunor was compared by a critic to acclaimed Italian actress Giulietta Masina , best known for her husband Federico Fellini ’s movies, and was described as ‘awesome’ when shown at the 47th Vienna International Film Festival.

For less than five minutes of screen time, Stuhlbarg shows more of a vulnerable villain and exudes a more human relatability than Malek’s character. This is a problem because what does this movie want? A caper? A character study? It seems to be a clumsy, hunky piece of filmmaking. There were no immersive action or dynamic fight scenes (I mean, this is a computer geek anyway, not an Ethan Hunt Mission: Impossible character).

This movie is a comedy because the CIA director (portrayed by a steely Julianne Nicholson ) is an avenging angel who wants to clean up the agency and be accountable to the American people. That alone becomes a distant figment of imagination in these days of Trumpian politics, wherein agencies are weaponized against those

are seen as un/non-American and

D igitally restored, Bona returned at the 77th Cannes in 2024 as part of the Cannes Classics section, where Sean Baker , Oscar-winning director of Cannes Palme d’Or winner Anora praised Aunor as incredible in the lead role.

In Adolf Alix Jr.’s Pieta (2023), Aunor’s last completed film, where she essayed the role of an old, suffering mother haunted by her past, she won the PMPC Star Award for Movie Actress of the Year. This must-see Aunor movie has yet to have a wide commercial release.

Aunor still has a movie in the can — Adolf Alix Jr. ’s Kontrabida (2021), winner of the NETPAC Award for Best Asian Feature at the 2022 Hanoi International Film Festival. Alix described Aunor in her role as an aging, reclusive actress, as in ‘her fighting form.’

Aunor’s star shone bright in her time. As the saying goes, ‘stars don’t die, they just fade away.’

Nora Aunor in her iconic role Elsa in the film ‘Himala’

In the 1976 film ’Minsa’y Isang Gamu-gamo,’ Nora’s iconic line, ‘My brother is not a pig,’ was introduced

Her last film, ‘Pieta,’ won her the PMPC Star Award for Movie Actress of the Year

Lino Brocka’s ‘Bona’ received critical acclaim at Cannes and Vienna film festivals

Hong Kong

Disneyland marks 20th anniversary with year-long celebration

KONG Disneyland Resort

will launch a year-long celebration for its 20th anniversary beginning June 28, the park announced during a red carpet preview event on April 17. The “20th Anniversary Magical Red Carpet Party” at Main Street, U.S.A. offered a first look at what the resort calls The Most Magical Party of All. The preview drew more than 500 invited guests, including media representatives, fans, and digital creators from the Philippines, mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, and the United States.

Mickey Mouse, Duffy and Friends, cast members, and performers took to the stage in new anniversarythemed outfits for a fashion show that highlighted exclusive merchandise and styling options. Vocalists also performed the resort’s new anthem,

energizing the crowd in advance of the upcoming festivities.

Michael Moriarty, managing director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, said the celebration will feature “immersive entertainment, extraordinary moments, and boundless Disney magic and surprises” throughout the year.

Among the new offerings is “Disney Friends Live: Party at the Castle!”, a 15-minute concert-style show featuring high-energy music, dance routines, and interactive segments. Mickey and Friends will appear in party outfits designed exclusively for the anniversary, while Princesses Aurora, Tiana and Belle are set to make appearances in new attire. Special effects such as LED screens, balloons, fog jets, and pyrotechnics will be part of the production.

The new “Friendtastic!” parade, the

largest in the resort’s history, will run for around 30 minutes. It features 11 floats and over 100 performers, including more than 30 Disney characters from franchises such as Zootopia Encanto Big Hero 6, Toy Story, Turning Red, Inside Out, and Up. The parade also includes the debut of Red Panda Mei, Isabela from Encanto, and Officer Clawhauser from Zootopia. Original music and choreography were created for each float.

“Momentous: Party in the Night Sky!” will cap off the daily festivities. The enhanced nighttime show will run for nearly 30 minutes and feature large-scale 3D projection mapping, drones, illuminated water displays, laser and flame effects, and pyrotechnics. It will include appearances from the Three Good

Filipino spirits steal the show at WOFEX 2025

By Nickie Wang

FILIPINO craftsmanship in spirits was on full display at this year’s World Food Expo (WOFEX), where Tanduay presented a strong lineup of local and export products from March 27 to 29 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

and curious

a

the brand’s most sought-after

A major feature of Tanduay’s presence at the expo was a three-day mixology series, where some of the country’s most creative bartenders demonstrated new ways to enjoy the brand’s versatile spirits. RJ Ramirez opened the series on March

Visitors can try sampled Tanduay’s signature blends, including Heritage Rum, Double Rum, Ginto Barrel Aged Gin, Especia Spiced Rum, and Tanduay Select

27 with a lineup that fused local ingredients and familiar flavors, serving Kalabasa High, Mais con Yelo, and Gintonic—all crafted with Especia Spiced Rum, Asian Rum Gold, and Ginto. The following day, Dondz Bolante offered a refreshing take on cocktail favorites. His creations—Watermelon Highball, Especia Sour, and Ginto Mule—blended innovation with approachability, using the same spirits in new ways. Paulo Layao concluded the showcase on March 29 with Ginto Pomelo, Bayabuzz, and Rumchatta—drinks that highlighted the balance between

boldness and smooth finish, drawing attention to the unique characteristics of Tanduay’s rum and gin. With its showing at WOFEX 2025, Tanduay underscored the growing presence of Filipino-made spirits in the global market while remaining grounded in the country’s long-standing rummaking tradition. The annual expo continues to serve as a key event for industry connections, innovation, and product discovery, and Tanduay used the opportunity to reconnect with its local base while reaching out to international buyers and culinary professionals.

GLOBE has introduced lower rates and expanded data allocation for its Roam Surf4All service, aimed at travelers sharing mobile data abroad.

The updated offer, available until April 30 via the GlobeOne app, provides up to 45 percent off on data roaming bundles and allows users to share their allocation with up to four Globe or TM SIM users.

Roam Surf4All starts at P1,999 for 10GB over five days, or roughly PHP80 per user per day. Higher-tier options include 15GB for P2,999 (15 days) and 20GB for PHP5,299 (30 days), lowering the daily per-user cost to P40 and P35, respectively.

Unlike pocket WiFi devices, the mobile-based service requires no deposits, rentals, or returns, and can be used across multiple countries under a single subscription.

Globe said the refreshed service is suited for group trips, especially those with layovers or cross-country itineraries. Users can manage data sharing, set limits, and monitor usage in real time via the GlobeOne app. “Roam Surf4All makes the experience of traveling abroad with friends or family even better,” said Paula Rivera-Castillo, head of Globe’s International Business. “It’s now more affordable to stay connected, with more GBs to go around and no need for extra devices or complicated setup. Just register via the GlobeOne app and share your data anytime, anywhere.” To activate the service, Globe subscribers must register through the app, select a destination, and invite up to four users to share the plan. Roam Surf4All is part of Globe’s push to make international connectivity more accessible by reducing costs and offering more flexible options for travelers.

HONG

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is celebrating its 20th

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

FIVE lucky subscribers of PLDT Home Fiber Netflix plans may soon find themselves in Seoul, South Korea for a real-life run through the challenges made popular by the global Netflix hit Squid Game PLDT Home has partnered with Netflix to give away five travel packages to Squid Game: The Experience , an immersive playground based on the award-winning drama. Located in the Seongsu-dong district in eastern

‘Squid Game: The Experience’ in Seoul

Mercury Rising

IN ALL my travels around the country and with all my affiliations with the various sectors of our tourism industry, I have never set foot in the province of Bataan. I have learned so much about its historical significance, which is why I always had the desire to visit it one day.

So when we, at the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), started working on collaborative projects with the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), I got excited. We then had to seal our partnership with signed documents, and this gave me a reason to set foot in historic Bataan. Finally, what I have always been looking forward to came about.

My PRA team and I took the very convenient less-than-twohour ferry ride from the Folk Arts Theater area to Camaya Coast, which is located in the southern tip of the province. This premier beachfront resort and residential development offers a stunning seaview right up front and picturesque natural scenery of hills and mountains on the other side. This 450-hectare township has beach clubs, water sports activities, leisure facilities, and dining options, the main reason for our collaboration with AFAB: to offer investment opportunities and residential alternatives to our foreign retirees.

Camaya Coast is owned and developed by Earth and Shore Leisure Communities Corporation (ESLCC), led by its president and CEO Manuel Carlos Ilagan, Jr. The community is so large, it has a total of six subdivisions, and they all have easy access to the beach, which is 3.2 kilometers long and includes two coves. This thriving community also has several waterfalls and a river running through it.

In one of the banquet halls of Camaya Beach Resort, we met with AFAB’s chief executive officer Mohammed Hussein Pangandaman and deputy administrator for operations Attorney Mike Paderanga. We signed our Joint Memorandum Order (JMO) streamlining the issuance of the Special Resident Retirees Visa (SRRV) for our retirees who would choose to invest or reside within the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB).

This collaborative project will draw in more foreign retirees to invest and reside in the FAB while contributing to its economic growth. These expanded residency options and business incentives will further strengthen FAB’s position as an emerging hub for foreign investments in Mariveles, the biggest town in the province.

PLDT Home partners with Netflix to give away travel packages to ‘Squid Game: The Experience’

Seoul, the venue brings to life iconic games from the series — minus the life-threatening consequences. The promo is open to new subscribers of PLDT Home Fiber Netflix plans 1599, 2499, and 3199, from April 1 to

Visit to Bataan leads to new retirement tourism push

After the formal ceremonies, my PRA colleagues and I retreated to our accommodations, the Aqua Fun Hotel, which,

I’m sure, my little grandsons would have loved to stay in, as there is a large complex of water fun rides right in front. Looking at the different rides from my hotel room window, I could almost see my grandsons enjoying themselves on those thrilling children’s attractions. Well, this will have to be another staycation destination in the near future!

The following day, my team and I drove to Balanga, the capital city of the province of Bataan. We met with the incumbent, 54-year-old Governor Jose Enrique Garcia III for the signing of our Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), to promote the province to our foreign retirees as one of the ideal retirement destinations in the country. The MOA also requests the Bataan LGU to help in the integration of our retirees into the local community, for them to enjoy being a part of our citizenry. What made the signing event significant is the fact that Bataan is the first province in the country to formally partner with us (PRA) in advancing retirement tourism and investment opportunities through our SRRV Program. After completing our

official tasks, my team and I, all first-timers in the province, decided to drive to some of the nearby tourist attractions before driving back to Manila. The first stop was at Kilometer 0, where the historic Death March started. The marker is right at the center of town, but it’s surprising to see a fastfood outlet right next to it. When we went there, the historical site was crowded with students loitering around, with some seated on the ground and others on improvised seats. There were also too many public transport vehicles parked around the historical marker, not giving it the respect and the distinction it deserves. We then drove to the picturesque water dam operated by the AFAB, supplying water to most of the town. The beautiful view could easily be straight out of a travelogue of a European country. It was such a calming, soothing view that I decided to spend a little bit more time just seated on a large stone, facing the dam, destressing myself with the calming scenery. On the drive back home, we were on top of a hill that offered a breathtaking view of Mariveles town below and the blue sea glistening in the sun. We couldn’t help but get off our vehicle to capture the beautiful scene with our cameras. City folks like us always go ga-ga over what nature offers—sights we never see in the concrete jungle. We would have wanted to visit the Mt. Samat National Shrine to pay our respects to the Filipino and American soldiers who fought for us against the Japanese Imperial Army, but we were told that it would be a very long drive from where we were. We decided to put it off until our next visit. But, thanks to our work, we finally set foot in this historical province and discovered

Located in eastern Seoul’s Seongsu-dong district, the venue brings iconic games from the series to life, minus the life-threatening consequences

The Seoul experience features three zones, including a Game Zone with six challenges from the show. Players are encouraged to act out dramatic losses

The AFAB dam supplies water to most of Mariveles town

Bataan Governor Jose Enrique Garcia III

The fun rides at the Aqua Park of Camaya Coast are right in front of the hotel