Manila Standard - 2025 April 29 - Tuesday

VATICAN SETS CONCLAVE TO ELECT NEW POPE

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PH in control of Sandy Cay

Gov’t execs, lawmakers slam Chinese disinformation on WPS

By Charles Dantes, Rex Espiritu, Ram Superable and Maricel

THE Philippines remains in control of Sandy Cay, which is near Pagasa Island where Filipino troops are stationed, as government officials on Monday slammed an “irresponsible” Chinese state media report claiming the area was under Beijing’s control.

Voters favor pro-WPS bets for Senate—SWS NEWS / A3

National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said China’s fake claim that it seized the cays was part of its “gray-zone operations” in a bid to “dominate” the

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed concerned officials to expedite

the delivery of assistance to Filipinos affected when a vehicle was intentionally driven through a crowd attending a street party in Vancouver, Canada, resulting in a massive carnage. Eleven people, aged 5 to 65, were killed, and more than two dozen oth-

All Alyansa bets ‘probable’ Senate winners

By Rachelle Tonelada and Maricel Cruz

WITH just a week to go before the end of the campaign period for the 2025 midterm elections, 19 senatorial candidates– including all 11 candidates of the ruling Alyansa ng Bagong Pilipinas -- are emerging as probable winners, according to the latest OCTA Research survey.

Reelectionist Senator Christopher Go topped the survey with 64.2% voter preference, followed closely by Erwin Tulfo at 61.2%.

Another Tulfo, Ben Tulfo, secured the third spot with 45.4% voter preference. Former Senate President Tito Sotto closely followed, ranking within the 3rd to 8th spots with 43.3% support.

Senator Ronald Dela Rosa (PDPLaban) ranked next with 40.4%, alongside former Senator Panfilo Lacson (39.7%) and Senator Pia Cayetano (39.5%), all within the 3rd to 10th statistical range.

Senator Bong Revilla placed within the 4th to 10th spots with 38.7% support.

NBI Central Visayas files cyberlibel case vs. Tiglao

By Vito Barcelo, Vince Lopez and Rio N. Araja

By Charles Dantes

Charles Dantes, Rachelle Tonelada, Ram Superable and Maricel V. Cruz

By Othel V. Campos and Charles Dantes

Conclave to begin on May 7

CATHOLIC cardinals will meet on May 7 to start voting for a new pope, the Vatican announced on Monday, a week after the death of Pope Francis.

So-called “Princes of the Church” under the age of 80 will meet in the Sistine Chapel to choose a new religious leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.

The date was decided at a meeting of cardinals of all ages early Monday, two days after the funeral of Francis, who died on April 21 aged 88.

The Church’s 252 cardinals were called back to Rome after the Argentine’s death, although only 135 are eligible to vote in the conclave.

They hail from all corners of the globe and many of them do not know each other.

But they already had four meetings last week, so-called “general congregations,” where they began to get better acquainted.

Cardinal Gualtiero Bassetti, 83, a former head of the Italian bishops’ conference, said there was a “beautiful, fraternal atmosphere.”

“Of course, there may be some dif-

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro yesterday assured that the government is closely coordinating with the Vancouver Police Department following the tragic incident involving Filipino nationals.

“Because they are our fellow Filipinos, the President immediately ordered that all possible help and support be extended, including establishing connections to those affected by the tragedy in Vancouver,” she told reporters during a press briefing.

Mr. Marcos earlier expressed grief over the tragic events that unfolded as Filipinos in Canada celebrated a national hero.

“I am completely shattered to hear about the terrible incident during a Lapu Lapu Day Block Party in Vancouver, BC, Canada,” President Marcos said in a statement.

Vancouver Police have identified the driver as Kai-Ji Adam Lo, who has been charged with eight counts of second degree murder by the BC Prosecution Service even as more charges may be added as the number of fatalities rise.

“Lo, a Vancouver resident, has appeared in court and remains in custody. The charge assessment is ongoing and further charges are anticipated,” police said as they called the incident “the darkest day” in the city’s history.

Lo was arrested at the scene after bystanders and witnesses intervened to detain him.

For her part, Vice President Sara Duterte emphasized that acts of violence have “no place in shared humanity” as she expressed condolences to the families of those killed.

“I offer my condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed and injured in the recent incident at the Lapu-Lapu Day Celebration in Vancouver, Canada,” she said in a statement on Monday.

Senate President Francis Escudero also expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims, saying that the pain of the tragedy is felt throughout the Filipino nation.

“When we are linked by blood, not even a vast ocean that separates us now deadens the pain, and that is why the homeland also weeps,” he said.

ficulties because the voters have never been so numerous and not everyone knows each other,” he told Italy’s Corriere della Sera newspaper.

The Vatican on Monday closed the Sistine Chapel, where voting will take place under Michelangelo’s 16th-century ceiling frescoes, to begin preparations.

So far there are few clues as to who cardinals might choose.

“I believe that if Francis has been the pope of surprises, this conclave will be too, as it is not at all predictable,” Spanish Cardinal Jose Cobo told El Pais in an interview published on Sunday.

Francis was laid to rest on Saturday with a funeral and burial ceremony that drew 400,000 people to St Peter’s Square and beyond, including royalty, world leaders, and ordinary pilgrims.

On Sunday, about 70,000 mourners filed past his marble tomb in the Santa

Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome, after the “pope of the poor” opted to be buried outside the Vatican’s walls.

Bookmakers’ odds

With conflicts and diplomatic crises raging around the world, Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who under Francis was secretary of state — the pope’s number two — is for many the favourite to succeed him.

British bookmakers William Hill put him slightly ahead of Filipino Luis Antonio Tagle, the Metropolitan Archbishop emeritus of Manila, followed by Ghana’s Cardinal Peter Turkson.

Next in their odds come Matteo Zuppi, the Archbishop of Bologna, Guinea’s Cardinal Robert Sarah, and Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem.

While Francis’s efforts to create a more compassionate Church earned him widespread affection and respect, some of his reforms angered the Church’s conservative wing, particularly in the United States and Africa.

Roberto Regoli, a professor of Church history and culture at the Pon-

adhere to and which they themselves continue to refer to in each and every statement issued by the Chinese Foreign Ministry,” he said.

Presidential Communications Office

tifical Gregorian University in Rome, told AFP that the cardinals would be looking “to find someone who knows how to forge greater unity.”

“We are in a period in which Catholicism is experiencing various polarisations, so I don’t imagine it will be a very, very quick conclave,” he said.

Bassetti, who is too old to participate, said however he thought it “will not be long.”

Some 80 percent of the cardinal electors were appointed by Francis — though that is no guarantee they will pick a successor in his likeness.

Most are relatively young, and for many it is their first conclave.

The vote is highly secretive and follows strict rules and ceremonial procedures. The process could take several days, or potentially longer.

There are four votes per day — two in the morning and two in the afternoon — until one candidate secures a two-thirds majority.

Fewer than half of those eligible to vote are European. AFP

for indigents, senior citizens, solo parents, and persons with disabilities, with beneficiaries allowed to purchase up to 30 kilos of rice per month, said Agriculture secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel.

“The new rice option aligns with the ‘Bente Bigas Mo’ pilot program in the Visayas and in 10 local government units where NFA rice is sold at P33 per kilo due to the national food security emergency. These LGUs include San Juan City in Metro Manila, San Jose del Monte in Bulacan, Camarines Sur, and Mati City in Davao Oriental,” Tiu Laurel added.

Malacañang said the expansion of the cheap but quality rice program is part of efforts to beef up anti-poverty measures following survey results showing more Filipino families considered themselves poor.

“We understand that poverty incidence can be dynamic. In particular, self-rated poverty surveys are sensitive to inflation, particularly the price level of commodities commonly consumed, such as food and transportation,” Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said. Castro said among the initiatives to alleviate poverty are the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Walang Gutom Program, the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), and school-based feeding programs.

the Speaker of the House,” Oliva said, referring to Tiglao’s assertions.

Tiglao’s article also quoted Frasco as saying: “Yes, I was bribed to vote against the Vice President, but I did it for you, dear constituents.”

In response to the allegations, Frasco explained that on February 6, he had been one of 240 lawmakers who signed the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte and supported its transmission to the Senate. Oliva emphasized that Tiglao’s article was void of any factual backing, with no evidence provided to substan-

information space.

“As we all know, the information space nowadays is also a battleground. So, it’s really a matter of trying to dominate the information, the narrative. It is really in the interest of the PRC if they are able to utilize the information space to intimidate and harass. This is also one form of gray-zone operations on the part of the PRC,” he said.

“The facts on the ground do not support this statement coming from the China Coast Guard, therefore, we urge the People’s Republic of China and the CCG to act with restraint and not increase tensions in the West Philippine Sea,” he added.

For his part, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson for the WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela his China’s disinformation strategy.

“[When] the Chinese government plans out its strategy, it always starts with a lie. And if we don’t counter the lie, they’re going to operationalize that lie and take possession of whatever narrative they have,” he said.

He said debunking false claims would prevent normalizing China’s disinformation efforts.

Malaya urged China to stop all provocative activities in the West Philippine Sea, uphold international law and help reduce tensions.

“We urge the People’s Republic of China and the Chinese Coast Guard to maintain the status quo in the WPS, consistent again with the 2002 Declaration of Conduct, which they themselves

Undersecretary Claire Castro added:

“We assure the public of President Marcos’ unwavering dedication to defending our territory and maritime rights, particularly in the West Philippine Sea. Lawmakers also condemned China’s attempt to seize Sandy Cay, calling it a violation of Philippine sovereignty and international laws.

“The photoshoot gimmick and supposed planting of the Chinese flag on Sandy Cay is just another spectacle orchestrated by Beijing. No self-respecting State would take it to mean that China now has sovereign rights over it,”

Senator Risa Hontiveros said.

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada added: “If these claims are proven to be unfounded, it is yet another attempt to distort the reality of the situation and spread fake news.”

Speaker Martin Romualdez said no fabricated display can undermine the Philippines’ legitimate sovereignty over its territory and exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

“I strongly denounce the latest actions of the China Coast Guard in and around Sandy Cay, an area well within the Philippines’ EEZ and unquestionably part of Philippine sovereignty. The Filipino people will not be bullied in our own backyard,” Romualdez said.

Chinese state broadcaster CCTV said Saturday that China’s coast guard had “implemented maritime control” over Tiexian Reef, part of Sandy Cay, in mid-April.

The Philippines and China have been engaged in months of confrontations over the South China Sea, which Beijing claims nearly in its entirety despite an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

CCTV published a photograph of four coast guard officials posing with a national flag on the reef’s white surface, in what the broadcaster described as a “vow of sovereignty.”

On Monday, the Philippine Coast Guard released its own photo showing Filipino sailors holding the country’s flag over the same disputed reef during an early morning mission the day before.

There do not appear to be any signs that China has permanently occupied or built a structure on the reef, which is a group of small sandbanks in the Spratly Islands.

Beijing’s foreign ministry on Monday reiterated the reef was part of China’s territory and said its moves constituted “rights protection and law enforcement activities.”

Spokesman Guo Jiakun said the steps were “aimed at countering the Philippines’ illegal landing and other acts of infringement and provocation” as well as “firmly safeguarding national territorial sovereignty.”

The US and Philippine militaries are currently conducting joint exercises that Beijing has said constitute a threat to regional stability.

Chinese warships have been spotted in Philippine waters since those bilateral “Balikatan” exercises kicked off last week, with aircraft carrier Shandong reportedly coming within 2.23 nautical miles (about four kilometers) of northern Babuyan Island. With AFP

“These efforts are being expanded to ensure that we address issues related to poverty and hunger,” Castro said A recent Social Weather Stations survey showed 55 percent of Filipino families, equivalent to about 15.5 million households, rated themselves as poor in April.

This marked an increase from the 14.4 million self-rated poor families reported in March.

“Although poverty incidence can be dynamic, the administration is committed to lessening the burden experienced by the public,” the Palace official.

During the pilot phase of the nationwide rollout of the P20-per-kilo rice, participating LGUs that contribute to the subsidy may extend the rice option to all households in their communities, regardless of vulnerability status.

The DA has secured approval from the Commission on Elections to proceed with the sale of P20-per-kilo subsidized rice, which is expected to free up NFA warehouse space and facilitate increased rice procurement from local farmers during the summer harvest.

Meanwhile, Senator Lito Lapid (36.9%) was ranked between the 5th and 11th spots, followed by Abby Binay (35.7%) who landed within the 5th to 14th range.

Former Senator Bam Aquino, with 32.3% support, was placed within the 9th to 18th spots.

ists,” MPC officers said in a statement. They warned that the rules could disadvantage newer outlets and younger reporters.

tivity of Malacañang as a key news beat.

Three candidates are contending for spots in the 10th to 18th range: Camille Villar (30.4%), former Senator Manny Pacquiao (30.3%), and former Senator Francis Pangilinan (30.3%).

such as the requirement for media organizations to have been in operation for at least five years and the stipulation that reporters must have prior government coverage experience.

“The MPC officers pointed out that some provisions, including the fiveyear minimum requirement for media entities and the government coverage requirement for reporters, could affect the status of fledgling news organizations and the deployment of staff, particularly those with younger journal-

tiate the claims.

“The posts lacked any proof, it’s purely his word,” Oliva said, stressing that such statements fulfilled the legal criteria for libel.

The NBI also highlighted the damaging impact the article had on Frasco’s reputation and credibility, particularly as a public official.

Tiglao was summoned to appear before the NBI-National Capital Region (NBI-NCR) but reportedly failed to present any supporting evidence for his claims.

“That’s the essence of fake news,” Oliva noted. “It makes something appear as truth when it is, in fact, false. When fact-checked, the claims do not hold up.”

The MPC also urged the PCO to clarify vague terms like “false reporting,” which is cited as grounds for revoking accreditation.

“They also cited the need to clarify vague terms, such as “false reporting,” one of the grounds for the revocation of accreditation, to ensure these terms are not used arbitrarily,” MPC officers said.

According to the officers, PCO officials, led by Secretary Jay Ruiz, were receptive to the reporters’ suggestions but emphasized that stricter accreditation standards are necessary due to the sensi-

“The two sides agreed to work together to find a middle ground that will ensure the efficiency and integrity of the accreditation process while preserving the autonomy of Palace reporters,” MPC officers said.

“The PCO officials asked the MPC to submit a position paper on the accreditation rules so they could craft a clearer and more acceptable set of guidelines.

The officers plan to complete the position paper and submit it to the PCO by Friday,” the statement added.

The PCO assured the MPC that it would consult journalists on any changes affecting their work.

Garcia said this is the first time the LAV is automated which means, there are no machines in areas where the polling precincts will be set up.

Media personality Willie Revillame, Benhur Abalos, Senator Imee Marcos, and Senator Francis Tolentino were also named among probable winners, with each securing around 28% voter preference, placing them within the 11th to 19th spots.

Actor Phillip Salvador, with 24.4% support, ranked between the 12th to 20th spots.

The survey was conducted from April 10 to 16, with 1,200 registered voters participating nationwide. It has a ±3% margin of error at a 95% confidence level.

local absentee voting for its members until April 29 at its Camp Karingal headquarters.

designated personnel on election duty are permitted to vote early.

He explained that LAV voters could only vote for national positions, saying “we still do not have a law that allows private individuals to vote earlier.”

Comelec personnel were among the first to cast their votes after they lined up at a polling precinct inside the poll body’s office in Intramuros, Manila.

A total of 57,689 individuals registered for LAV, with the majority coming from the Philippine Army. Within the Comelec itself, 922 employees and officials are eligible to vote early.

“The LAV ballots will be securely stored, and the envelopes will be sealed. All the envelopes will be opened on May 12 and processed by the machines,” he said.

The results for the LAV voting will be announced on the night of the May 12 elections, Garcia added. He said the Commission is anticipating an 80% voter turnout in this year’s absentee voting, which is similar to the turnout during the 2022 presidential elections.

Meanwhile, the Quezon City Police District on Monday began to conduct

Col. Randy Glenn Silvio, district director for Administration and officerin-charge, said 665 personnel would cast their votes during the period.

The absentee voting would enable the police personnel who are on duty or unable to go to their designated polling centers to exercise their right of suffrage.

“The local absentee voting is a vital opportunity for our personnel to fulfill their civic duty while maintaining their responsibility to ensure security during the upcoming elections,” he noted.

Around 33,000 of their policemen are expected to take advantage of the local absentee voting (LAV) opportunity.

Most Pinoy will vote for bets supporting PH sovereignty

By Rachelle Tonelada

AMID growing concerns over maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), a majority of Filipinos remain confident in candidates who advocate for the country’s sovereignty and are likely to vote for them, a recent survey showed.

According to the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey commissioned by Stratbase Consultancy, 75% of Filipinos said they would vote for candidates who push for the defense of the WPS.

BALIKATAN DRILLS. Members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Armed Forces conduct an Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) training on April 27, at the Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Command (NETDC) in Zambales, as part of Exercise Balikatan 40-2025. PAOAFP

Conducted from April 11 to 14, the survey revealed that voters favor candidates who believe the Philippines must assert its rights against China’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea.

Meanwhile, only 25% of Filipinos said they prefer candidates who do not believe in asserting the country’s rights against China’s aggressive moves.

The survey also found that those less likely to prefer candidates who fight for the WPS mainly belong to the country’s poorest and most vulnerable sector, classified as Social Class E.

The results highlighted the correlation between vulnerability to disinformation and social class, with disinformation campaigns particularly targeting those in Social Class E.

According to Stratbase president Dindo Manhit, individuals in the Social Class E bracket have become victims of a disinformation campaign waged by China, which aims to “dull national outrage, normalize foreign aggression, and create confusion about the necessity of defending Philippine sovereignty.”

“Social Class E’s daily fight for survival leaves them more susceptible to these manipulations, especially when false narratives are amplified by local candidates who have historically aligned themselves with Chinese interests,” Manhit added.

Malaya urges China to address poll meddling allegations

NATIONAL Security Council Assistant Director

General Jonathan Malaya on Monday pressed the Chinese Embassy in Manila to fully address allegations of Chinese meddling in the May 2025 elections, insisting that mere denials are not enough.

Malaya issued the statement as Philippine officials refuted China’s claim that it had seized Sandy Cay, a sandbar located just two nautical miles off Palawan province.

“I urge the Chinese Embassy to explain the cheque that was exposed by Senator [Francis] Tolentino. Blanket denials will not suffice. The document was released during a hearing—there’s a contract, there’s a cheque issued by the Chinese government, the Chi-

nese embassy, made out to Infinitus Marketing, a company clearly engaged in influencing political discourse,” Malaya said at a press conference.

He was referring to a Senate hearing led by Tolentino last week, during which the senator presented a service agreement dated August 2023. The agreement was between the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines, represented by Wu Chenqi, director of the embassy’s media and public relations office, and InfinitUs Marketing Solutions Inc., represented by marketing director Myka Poynton.

Tolentino alleged that the contract involves the deployment of keyboard warriors tasked with spreading narratives favorable to China.

At the same hearing, Malaya said there were signs

Oil firms to again raise fuel pump prices

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE country’s oil firms implemented another big-time oil price hike of as much as P1.35 per liter for gasoline, effective 6 a.m. Tuesday, due to concerns over the tightening of global oil supply. The oil firms also raised the price of diesel and kerosene by P0.80 and P0.70 per liter, respectively, triggering the second consecutive week of price increases.

Department of Energy Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) Director Rodela Romero said last week that gasoline might go up by P0.80 to P1.40 per liter, diesel by P0.40 to P1 per liter, and kerosene by P0.50 to P0.70 per liter.

She attributed the higher pump prices to fresh U.S. sanctions on Iran’s oil shipping network, which are seen to tighten global crude supply, and a sharper-than-expected decline in U.S. crude inventories.

“Final adjustment will be determined after today’s trading and oil companies’ inputs on their related costs,” Romero said.

Meanwhile, Jetti Petroleum President Leo Bellas estimated the increase for gasoline at P1.10 to P1.30 per liter and diesel at P0.70 to P0.90 per liter based on the movement of the Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) and foreign exchange rates for the first four days of the week versus last week’s full-week average.

“Oil prices continued their rally due to concerns about tightening supply, following a fresh round of U.S. sanctions on Iran,” Bellas said.

He said easing fears about economic uncertainty in the U.S., the prospects of lowering tariffs on imported Chinese goods, and a drop in U.S. fuel stockpiles have also helped shore up oil prices.

that China is attempting to interfere in the upcoming May 2025 elections by backing certain candidates.

“So rather than making these claims about seizing Sandy Cay, they should first explain to the world and to the Filipino people why they are meddling in our internal affairs. Why are they trying to sway the political discourse in our country, which no diplomatic mission should ever engage in?” Malaya said.

In a separate press conference on Thursday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated that “China follows the principle of non-interference in other countries’ domestic affairs” and claimed that Beijing has “no interest in interfering in Philippine elections.”

IN BRIEF

MMDA intensifies ‘Oplan-Baklas’ in NCR

THE Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has ramped up its “Oplan-Baklas” campaign to remove unlawful election materials ahead of the May 12 midterm elections. MMDA Chairman Don Artes reported that since February 11, the Metro Parkways Clearing Group has collected nearly 33 tons (92.84 cubic meters) of campaign materials across Metro Manila.

“Our personnel are assisting the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in removing illegal materials that don’t comply with regulations or are posted outside designated areas,” said Artes, noting the agency’s continued cooperation with Comelec. Most of the materials removed consisted of tarpaulins and posters bearing the names of candidates and party-list groups, which were found on posts, trees, and power lines. Joel E. Zurbano

PH, Japan execs join Davao connection

AMBASSADOR Endo Kazuya, Japan’s Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Nakano Hiromasa, joined Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel in Davao City to mark the successful connection of the north and south portals of one of the twin tunnels of the Davao City Bypass Construction Project. Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) chairperson Leo Tereso Magno also attended the event. The 2.3-kilometer tunnel is now the longest mountain tunnel in the Philippines, representing a major milestone in the country’s road infrastructure. The tunnel connection is a key development in the bypass project, which, once completed, will significantly reduce travel time, enhance economic activity, and improve connectivity in Mindanao. Middle-income confab starts in Manila

THE High-Level Conference of Middle-Income Countries (MICs) kicked off in Manila, marking the first time the event is being held in Asia. This conference brings together leaders from the Asia-Pacific region to discuss strategies and solutions for supporting the growth of middle-income nations. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo emphasized that the conference highlights the need for sustained dialogue and collaborative efforts to address the challenges faced by middleincome countries. He noted that these nations, which represent over half the world’s poor, must tackle both internal and external challenges to achieve national development goals. Manalo called for “concerted action” to ensure the conference leads to meaningful outcomes. He urged leaders to focus on solutions that address evolving needs, including green transitions, resilient strategies, and innovation as new growth criteria in economic and energy sectors. Rachelle Tonelada

Alert 1 raised over Sorsogon due to Bulusan

By Rio N. Araja, Joel Zurbano, and Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) raised Bulusan Volcano’s status from Alert Level 0 to Alert Level 1 on Monday following a phreatic eruption that blanketed several Sorsogon communities in ash.

Phivolcs reported that the eruption, which started at 4:36 a.m. and lasted 24 minutes, generated a plume 4,500 meters high that drifted west to southwest. Ashfall was reported in several barangays in Irosin, Juban, and Magallanes towns. A pyroclastic density current descended the southwestern slopes, traveling up to three kilometers from the summit.

Authorities recorded 53 volcanic earthquakes in the 24 hours preceding the eruption. Residents reported rumbling sounds about 15 minutes before the event, confirmed by infrasound sensors. Phivolcs warned the public against entering the four-kilometer permanent danger zone and advised vigilance within the two-kilometer extended danger zone due to risks of pyroclastic flows, ashfall, and lahars, especially during heavy rains. People were also urged to wear protective masks and avoid inhaling ash. Aircraft were advised to steer clear of the summit area due to the potential hazards of sudden ash emissions.

Following the eruption, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines

(CAAP) issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) prohibiting flights near Bulusan up to 21,000 feet. The NOTAM remains in effect until April 29, 2025. Meanwhile, road clearing operations began in Barangay Buraburan, Juban, where ashfall heavily impacted the national highway. The Sorsogon Provincial Government, supported by the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine National Police, and disaster management officials, mobilized clearing teams. Governor Boboy Hamor urged motorists to avoid the affected roads and called on residents to remain vigilant and follow official advisories.

Bulusan Volcano remains under close monitoring as authorities assess ongoing volcanic activity.

CONDOLENCES. Senator Cynthia Villar writes on the Book of Condolences in honor of His Holiness Pope Francis at the Apostolic Nunciature in Taft Avenue, Manila. She was welcomed by Papal Nuncio Archbishop Charles John Brown.

IN BRIEF

QC fashion tilt features recycled textile wastes

THE Quezon City government has recognized the role of fashion in combatting textile waste.

“In Quezon City, fashion isn’t just about style — it’s about shaping a greener future,” the local government unit said in a statement.

At least six standout designers have turned discarded textiles into dazzling children’s wear at the recent Retashow 2025: QC’s Catwalk to Sustainability, Quezon City’s flagship sustainable fashion competition held at Gateway Mall in Araneta City, Cubao.

Now in its second year, Retashow has challenged both aspiring and professional designers to reimagine waste as wearable art, showcasing the transformative power of creativity, innovation and environmental advocacy. Rio N. Araja

Taguig inaugurates new multi-purpose building

THE Taguig City government announced on Monday the opening of a new four-storey multi-purpose building at Kapt. Eddie T. Reyes Integrated School in Barangay Pinagsama.

The new edifice will expand classrooms, provide a modern recreational space, and establish venues for community activities.

Local officials, teachers, students, and residents gathered to celebrate the occasion, emphasizing the local government’s continuing commitment to creating a transformative, lively, and caring city.

Mayor Laarni Cayetano, Vice Mayor Arvin Alit, and Liga ng mga Barangay president Jorge Bocobo led the ribboncutting ceremony, joined by city councilors and barangay and school officials. Joel E. Zurbano

BI halts 2 OFW hopefuls but posing as tourists

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has intercepted two Filipino women about to leave the country purportedly for a vacation in Hong Kong but in reality to work in Bahrain.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the women, identified only as Annie and Aiza, both in their midthirties, claimed to be friends traveling to Hong Kong for a short vacation, but raised some doubts during primary inspection, prompting further interrogation. During the interview, the pair admitted that their actual destination was Bahrain, where they had been recruited to work in a factory for a monthly salary of 130 BHD (approximately P19,000).

They also admitted that their online recruiter gave them two envelopes—one containing standard travel documents, and another with a Bahrain-bound airline ticket and visa application—under the pretense of legal overseas employment. Vito Barcelo

DOLE sets rules on Labor Day pay for private sector workers

TLabor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said employees in the private sector who would report for work on May 1 are entitled to full pay plus 200 percent of their basic wages. The DOLE released the pay matrix

through Labor Advisory No. 04, series of 2025, signed by the Labor secretary. Under presidential Proclamation No. 727, Labor Day is declared a regular holiday, which means all non-essential work and classes are suspended on

scheduled rest day of the employee, he or she shall be entitled to holiday pay if the employee reports to work or is on leave of absence with pay on the day immediately preceding the non-working day or rest

(calculated as hourly rate x 200 percent x 130 percent x number of hours worked).

Labor groups set for May 1 rallies to demand P200-wage hike

VARIOUS labor groups will push for a P200-wage hike on Labor Day, citing what they claim as “years of ineffective wage determination by the Regional Wage Boards” and the rising prices of prime commodities which they said have eroded the purchasing power of their incomes.

A nationwide rally will be held on May 1 to be spearheaded by the Partido Manggagawa (PM) and Kilusang Mayo Uno to call for wage hike and job security to cope with economic difficulties. Groups comprising the National Wage Coalition will assemble along

various points on España Ave., in Sampaloc,, Manila then march at 7:00 am to Mendiola St. near Malacañang for a joint program.

PM and allied groups will assemble at Petron Blumentritt, also in Sampaloc, at 6:30 am. Over in Cebu City, multiple groups will also converge at Fuente Osmeña at 9:00 am for a joint program.

Meanwhile in Bacolod City, sugar farm workers will lead a Labor Day rally, while in Iloilo City, the coalition of United Labor will assemble in the morning in front of UP Visayas, then march to the

By Maricel V. Cruz

their already existing files with the Solo Parents Offices (SPOs) of the city governments or Solo Parent Divisions (SPDs) of the municipal governments where they respectively live,” Villafuerte said. “Alongside a monthly cash subsidy for

single moms and dads earning the minimum wage or below, and the 10 percent discount plus exemption from the 12 percent value-added tax (VAT) on certain essential purchases, solo parents are now entitled to free PhilHealth coverage,” said Villafuerte. Villafuerte was a lead author of RA 11861, which expanded the benefits for single parents under the two-decade-old “Solo Parents Welfare Act” of 2000 or RA 8972. In a 2017 study, the DOH and the University of the Philippines-National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH) estimated about 14 to 15 million solo parents in the country.

provincial capitol for a joint program. In Iligan City, several big labor unions will likewise stage a rally in the morning at the plaza with the city’s tripartite industrial peace council The workers are poised demand a legislated wage increase and reject the regional wage board system that keeps provincial rates “pitifully low,” calling for a nationwide wage hike, not provincial rates, regular jobs, not precarious endo contracts, fully funded public services as a right, not subject to patronage and respect for labor rights, including unionization and collective bargaining

In a related development, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) urged President Marcos certify as urgent the proposed P200-legislated wage hike viewed as the “only hope for the vast majority of workers without unions and no collective bargaining agreements.”

“Workers need a chance to have three decent meals a day, rather than merely being referred again and again to the Regional Wage Boards, which time and again has consistently only provided workers with crumbs,” the TUCP said. Vito Barcelo

SC flags school for inaction on bullying inside classroom

By Pot Chavez

THE Supreme Court (SC) on Monday held a school liable for failure to address a bullying incident leading to the assault of a student.

In a decision penned by Associate Justice Mario Lopez, the SC’s Second Division said the school neglected to resolve a punching incident involving three grade school students inside one of its classrooms. The scuffle involved two students who repeatedly attacked a classmate while the teacher was in the comfort room, but no meaningful action was taken. The High Tribunal underscored that schools have a contractual obligation to ensure a safe learning environment for its

also to maintain a safe learning environment, will protect the child from harm or will promptly address similar incidents after its occurrence,” the SC decision read.

STARDOM CASTS MAGIC SPELL OVER THE VOTERS. Vintage and new stardoms personified by action star-turned politician now reelectionist Senator Lito Lapid and young actor-director Coco Martin, respectively, combine to woo votes in Quezon City.

LATE APRIL RAINSHOWER. Quezon City’s skyline is slightly shrouded by a rainshower which the weather bureau attributed to a low pressure area hovering over the country, but with low chances of evolving into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours. Manny Palmero

OPINION

When Japan occupied the PH

WHEN you reach my age of 97, turning 98 years, you cannot help but recall the past.

One phase of my life which I can never forget and remains so vivid in my memory was wartime when the Japanese occupied the country, Santa Banana!

I was only 14 years old when the war broke out. There had been rumors and reports that war was inevitable, that the country would be invaded and occupied by the Japanese.

Sure enough, Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese on Dec.7, 1941 (Dec. 8 in the Philippines). The American air base at Clark Field was also bombed on that day, and so was the American naval base in Subic.

Thus, in Manila, there were recruitments of soldiers, specifically at universities like Far Eastern University, not so far from where my family lived along P. Campa Street in Sampaloc. Filipinos living in Manila were definitely worried about what would happen if the Japanese would occupy Manila.

But soon enough, Manila was declared an “Open City” on Dec. 26, 1942 by General Douglas MacArthur to prevent further destruction during the Japanese invasion of the Philippines.

A few days later, the Japanese entered Manila on Jan. 2, 1942. I was there watching them with my family, coming in along Espana Blvd. Simultaneously, the Japanese outlawed the Philippine currency and started exchanging Japanese notes with peso bills. We used to call the Japanese currency “Mickey Mouse money” or, as Ilokanos called it yapyap. Filipino and American troops went to Bataan to fight the Japanese.

While my father at that time was still in Abra, my eldest brother Desi was arrested by the Japanese Kempeitai because he was accused of being part of the underground movement and imprisoned for nine months in Fort Santiago.

My other brother Willie joined the American-Filipino forces in Bataan, but he survived the infamous Death March and was concentrated in Capas Tarlac. We were the only three left of my family in Manila -- my mother, my sister and myself. We had to exist on the very little we had; I had to think of ways of how to make money.

Thus, I became a bootblack and a cigarette vendor. At least my income then was good enough to enable me sometimes to watch stage shows and to laugh at the antics of Pugo and Tugo. Sometimes I would take a small snack at the small grocery store at the corner of Espana and P. Campa owned by the Mathay family. But I had to think of other ways to make money.

Somebody told me II could make a little money selling cigarettes to the Ameri-

cans held at the concentration camp in UST.

When I asked how, he showed me how to insert cigarettes through the sawali bamboo fence around the perimeter. He told me the Japanese guards made their rounds every 30 minutes.

And so I did, inserting Piedmonts, Camels and Chesterfields through the fence in exchange for money.

After a few weeks , the Japanese guards saw me and shouted. I ran away as fast as I could. That ended my experience with the Americans in the UST concentration camp.

When things were getting bad in Manila because of the high prices, my father, knowing how hard it was in Manila, decided to bring to Manila a caritela (a horse-drawn open cart ) and a ducar ( a horse-drawn four-wheel wagon).

Luckily the place we were staying at was an interior “accessoria” with a big front yard capable of housing the caritela and ducar.

We used the caritela as a passenger cart navigating the route of Quiapo through Espana onto the Espana rotunda in Quezon City and a lot of times our ducar was rented by people for their weddings.

On both occasions, I was the fare master. We used to earn a few pesos everyday. Those few pesos enabled us to spend it for our daily requirements.

Then when things became extremely bad in Manila, that a ganta of rice would cost a sackful of Japanese Mickey Mouse money, the family decided to go back to the province.

My father sold the ducar and one horse.

For our trip to the province of Abra, we used the caritela for the family. It was a primitive way to travel, but we managed it. When the Japanese declared an amnesty for all Filipino soldiers, my brothers Desi and Wiillie went up north to join the guerrilla movement.

We reached Abra and rejoined my two brothers Desi and Willie who were members of the guerrilla movement of the USAFIP-NL. I would like to write more about my experience with the guerrilla movement of Northern Luzon, but that is another story which I will write. Later on.

China’s financial rise and the Philippines’ tightrope

IN A Manila market, Linda Dela Cruz, a 38-year-old fish vendor, counts her peso earnings, her hands swift but her heart heavy. Fuel, rice, and ice for her catch cost more each week.

“Everything’s pricier,” she sighs. “Saving’s impossible.” Linda’s struggles seem far from Shanghai’s financial chessboard, where China is challenging the US dollar’s global rule. Yet her life is tied to this shift, driven by China’s Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) and BRICS Pay, which could reshape the Philippines’ future.

China’s goal is bold: to weaken the dollar, which anchors 85 percent of global trade and 60 percent of reserves, giving the US unmatched power.

Beijing’s CIPS, linking 1,300 institutions across 110 countries, promotes yuan-based payments as a rival to SWIFT, the West’s $150 trillion transaction pipeline.

BRICS Pay, a blockchain-based system, aims to let Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa trade in local currencies, bypassing the dollar. This isn’t just about money—it’s about rewriting global influence. Cracks in the money machine CIPS and BRICS Pay are strategic weapons. China seeks to shield itself from US

sanctions, like those that cut Russia from SWIFT post-Ukraine invasion.

BRICS Pay could help sanctioned nations trade freely. With the BRICS bloc holding 45 percent of the world’s population and 35 percent of its GDP, success could dent the dollar’s dominance, curbing America’s financial clout.

Filipinos living in Manila were definitely worried about what would happen if the Japanese would occupy Manila —“—

China’s goal is bold: to weaken the dollar, which anchors 85 percent of global trade and 60 percent of reserves

But hurdles abound. CIPS handles a fraction of SWIFT’s volume, and the yuan is just 3 percent of global payments.

BRICS Pay struggles to mesh systems like India’s UPI with Russia’s Mir. Skeptics, including India, see political motives over economic gain. Western banks fear losing control and may push back with tariffs, as US signals in 2025 suggest. A split financial system could stall global growth, the IMF warns.

Display of national flags

IN RECENT days, China and the Philippines have put on view, in what observers described as competing photo opportunities, their respective flags on a disputed sandbank in the South China Sea.

The sandbank, called Sandy Cay, near Thitu (Pagasa island) which is part of the Spratly islands, is well within the Philippines’ 200-mile exclusive economic zone as it is only 120 nautical miles from the Philippines’ western shoreline.

China’s chutzpah in staking the fivestar red flag, even if only temporarily after the Chinese were reported to have left the sandbank later, was a gear to building up once more tensions between Beijing and Manila.

Beijing’s act came as the Philippines and the United States, treaty allies under the Mutual Defense Pact signed on Aug. 30, 1951, were conducting in the West Philippine Sea their 18-day joint military drills they call “Balikatan” or”shoulder to shoulder” which in 2025 will include an integrated air and missile defense simulation for the first time.

We note the White House described the reports of China “seizing” Sandy

The Philippines’ human stakes

Linda’s rising costs reflect the Philippines’ vulnerability. Dollar-based trade—70 percent of exports like electronics—drives the economy.

Overseas workers send $40 billion home, mostly in dollars, sustaining families like Linda’s.

A weaker dollar or stronger yuan could spike food and fuel prices, hitting vendors hardest.

The Philippines balances a US alliance with China’s economic pull. China’s Belt and Road loans, often in yuan, fund infrastructure but risk debt traps.

CIPS and BRICS Pay may push Manila toward yuan trade, angering the US amid South China Sea tensions.

Exporter Eduardo, tempted by CIPS’s lower fees, fears US retaliation: “It’s cheaper, but risky.” His dilemma mirrors the nation’s—pragmatism versus loyalty.

Cay as “deeply concerning if true,” with US National Security Council spokesman James Hewitt saying “Actions like these threaten regional stability and violate international law...we are consulting closely with our own part-

We are pleased the Philippines quickly asserted its sovereignty over Pagasa Cays 1, 2, 3 and its surrounding waters

ners and remain committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

Beijing, ignoring an international arbitral ruling in 2016, continues its hard-boiled claims of sovereignty over almost all of the South China Sea, wav-

Power plays and perils

China’s move counters US financial bullying, like asset freezes in Venezuela. Emerging nations, burned by the 1997 Asian crisis, seek autonomy. CIPS and BRICS Pay could cut costs, even for US allies.

But China’s control over CIPS and Russia’s sanctions-dodging aims raise concerns. A multipolar system risks market chaos, hurting small economies like the Philippines most.

Roadmap through the storm

The Philippines must act wisely: Diversify Currencies: Trade in pesos, yuan, or euros via ASEAN pacts to reduce dollar reliance without China’s grip.

Build ASEAN Networks: Blend CIPS with regional systems like Thailand’s PromptPay for autonomy. Protect Small Traders: Train vendors

ing away competing assertions from other regional countries.

On July 12, 2016, an arbitral tribunal organized under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea concluded China had not exercised exclusive and continuous control over the area and that certain maritime features lie within the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines.

The tribunal found that China’s claims based on its fairy-tale ninedash line, including its claims to historic rights in the South China Sea, were not legally valid.

The tribunal determined the line exceeded the geographic limits imposed by UNCLOS and that China’s claims were inconsistent with the Convention.

We are as pleased as punch the Philippines quickly asserted its sovereignty over Pag-asa Cays 1, 2, 3 and its surrounding waters through an “interagency maritime operation” on Sunday.

The National Task Force West Philippine Sea said in a statement: “This coordinated effort involved the Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard, and Philippine National Police-Maritime Group, reinforcing Philippine authorities’ routine and lawful exercise of maritime domain awareness and jurisdiction over the West Philippine Sea.”

like Linda in digital payments to weather currency shifts. Push Global Reform: Urge U.S.-led SWIFT and IMF changes to ease Global South burdens, weakening BRICS Pay’s allure.

Balance Superpowers: Deepen U.S. ties while engaging China, ensuring transparent loans. Future beyond the dollar Linda’s stall and the Philippines’ fate hinge on a world where money isn’t one nation’s scepter.

China’s CIPS and BRICS Pay signal a multipolar dawn—opportunity or entanglement.

The dollar’s reign wanes, and the Philippines must seize this shift for stability. Imagine Linda counting pesos or yuan, each sale a step toward sovereignty. Bold, people-first policies can make that real, ensuring vendors don’t just survive, but thrive.

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in horizontal format of a woman with hair falling just under her shoulders has her back turned on us. She is wearing a short-sleeved pink polo. She is pristine and shining. She is at the middle. In between her are two ogre creatures whose backs are also turned to us. Flies are darting around the ogre’s bodies. They are holding each other’s hands and raising in the air. The ogres are wearing Philippine peso bills and torn election posters that say ‘same old politicians.’

Trump says Zelenskyy may give up Crimea

IN BRIEF

GAZA CITY – Gaza’s civil defense agency said Israeli strikes on Sunday had killed 50 people in the territory.

Israel resumed its military campaign in the Gaza Strip on March 18. A ceasefire agreement that had largely halted the fighting for two months collapsed over disagreements with Palestinian militant group Hamas, whose 2023 attack triggered the war.

“Fifty martyrs have been counted as a result of continuous Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip since dawn,” civil defense official Mohammed al-Mughayyir told AFP.

They included nine people killed in a strike on a group of civilians in the east of Gaza City in the north of the territory.

The hospital in the southern town of Khan Yunis said it had received the bodies of seven people killed in a strike on a house.

The hospital in al-Awda said it had received four bodies and several people wounded from a strike on a cafe near the central Bureij camp. AFP

JERUSALEM – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for the complete dismantling of Iran’s nuclear program, insisting any deal with Tehran must also address its ballistic missile capabilities.

“You have to dismantle their nuclear infrastructure and that means ... they will not have the capacity to enrich uranium,” he said in a speech in Jerusalem, adding that any deal should also “bring in the prevention of ballistic missiles”.

“The real deal that works is the deal which removes Iran’s capacity to enrich uranium for nuclear weapons,” the Israeli premier said.

“Iran will not have nuclear weapons,” he added.

Western governments have long suspected Iran of pursuing a nuclear weapons capability, an ambition Tehran has consistently denied, insisting its program is for peaceful purposes only. AFP

100 illegal migrants nabbed in nightclub raid

WASHINGTON, DC – US authorities said Sunday (Monday Manila time) they arrested more than 100 undocumented migrants at a raid on a nightclub in Colorado, the latest detentions in President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown.

The Drug Enforcement Administration

“apprehended over 100 illegal aliens at an underground night club frequented by Tda and MS-13 terrorists,” Attorney General Pam Bondi wrote on X. Trump has designated South American gangs Tren de Aragua and MS-13 as terrorist groups, sent troops to the Mexican border and called for mass expulsions of undocumented migrants as part of his iron fist approach to immigration.

The Republican leader has in the process butted heads with federal judges, rights groups and Democrats who say he has trampled or ignored constitutional rights in rushing to deport migrants, sometimes without the right to a hearing. AFP

Huthi rebel media says 68 killed in US strikes

SANAA, Yemen – Huthi rebel-controlled media in Yemen said Monday that US strikes targeted a migrant detention center in the movement’s stronghold of Saada, killing at least 68 people.

The US military has hammered the Iran-backed Huthis with near-daily strikes since March 15 in an operation dubbed “Rough Rider,” seeking to end the threat they pose to vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

The Huthis launched strikes targeting Israel and Western vessels in the Red Sea, in what they describe as solidarity with the Palestinians, since Hamas conducted the worst-ever attack on Israel in October 2023.

On Sunday, the military said it has hit more than 800 targets in Yemen since mid-March, killing hundreds of Huthi

rebels including members of the group’s leadership.

“The civil defense has announced that 68 African migrants were killed and 47 others wounded in the US attack targeting a center for illegal migrants in the city of Saada,” the Huthis’ Al-Masirah TV said. AFP could not independently confirm the veracity of Al-Masirah’s claim that the strikes had hit a migrant detention center, or the toll.

AFP has contacted the US military for comment.

According to a statement cited by AlMasirah from the Huthi administration’s interior ministry, the center housed “115 migrants, all from Africa.”

The broadcaster showed footage of bodies stuck under the rubble and of rescuers working to help the casualties.

Each year, tens of thousands of migrants brave the Eastern Route from the Horn of Africa, seeking to escape conflict, natural disasters and poor economic prospects by sailing across the Red Sea toward the oil-rich Gulf.

Many hope for employment as labourers or domestic workers in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Arab countries, though they face a perilous journey through wartorn Yemen.

The Huthis are, like Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, backed by Iran, which is Israel’s arch-foe.

They began targeting shipping in late 2023, preventing ships from passing through the Suez Canal -- a vital route that normally carries about 12 percent of global trade -- forcing many companies into a costly detour around the tip of southern Africa. AFP

Last day of Canada poll drive jolted by Vancouver attack

OTTAWA – Canadian leaders made their final push for votes Sunday (Monday Manila time), one day before an election dominated by US President Donald Trump’s policies, but rattled in the campaign’s final hours by a deadly car-ramming attack in Vancouver.

Prime Minister Mark Carney, the Liberal Party leader, is favored to beat Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre in Monday’s vote, but polls show the race has tightened in recent days.

The prime minister briefly paused his campaign schedule on Sunday to address the nation after a driver plowed into a crowd at a Filipino street festival in the west coast city, killing 11 people. Carney, a 60-year-old father of four, teared up as he voiced support for those affected.

“Last night families lost a sister, a brother, a mother, a father, a son, or a daughter,” Carney said. “Those families are living every family’s nightmare.”

Carney later visited Vancouver on Sunday, arriving with flowers in hand to attend a memorial event at a church held in honor of the victims of the attack, according to the CPAC broadcaster. A 30-year-old man who police said had a history of mental health issues and previous interactions with law enforcement was in custody following the attack that injured dozens.

Poilievre, appearing alongside his wife at a church in the election battleground city of Mississauga west of Toronto, condemned the attack as a “senseless act of violence.”

“Our hearts are with you today. All Canadians are united in solidarity with the Filipino community,” Poilievre said.

The Vancouver attack briefly shifted the nation’s focus away from Trump, whose trade war and threats to annex Washington’s northern neighbor have outraged Canadians. AFP

WASHINGTON, DC – US President Donald Trump said he believed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was ready to concede Crimea to Russia as part of any ceasefire deal, as talks on a truce entered what Washington called a critical week on Monday.

Trump also stepped up pressure on Vladimir Putin, saying the Russian president should “stop shooting” and sign an agreement to end the grinding war that started with Moscow’s Feb. 2022 invasion.

Trump’s comments came a day after he met Zelenskyy during the funeral of Pope Francis, breaking the ice after a major row between the US and Ukrainian leaders at the White House in February.

“Oh, I think so,” Trump told reporters in Bedminster, New Jersey, when asked whether he thought Zelenskyy was ready to “give up” Crimea -- despite the Ukrainian president repeatedly saying he never would.

Trump added that during their talks in the Vatican they had “briefly” discussed the fate of the Black Sea peninsula, which Moscow annexed in 2014.

The 78-year-old US president, who boasted before his inauguration that he could halt Russia’s invasion of Ukraine within one day, launched a diplomatic offensive to stop the fighting after taking office in January.

Kyiv and western allies have feared that Trump was pivoting towards Moscow’s position.

But the US leader has appeared increasingly impatient with Putin in recent days.

Russia launched drone and missile attacks the night after the Vatican talks, killing four people in regions across eastern Ukraine and wounding more than a dozen. AFP

North Korea confirms troop deployment to Kursk border

SEOUL – North Korea confirmed for the first time it had deployed troops to Russia, with state news agency KCNA on Monday reporting that Pyongyang’s soldiers helped Moscow reclaim territory under Ukrainian control in the border region of Kursk. The admission comes just days after Russia confirmed the North’s participation, with South Korean and Western intelligence agencies having long reported that Pyongyang sent more than 10,000 soldiers to help in Kursk last year.

“The sub-units of our armed forces,” the North’s Central Military Commission said in the KCNA report, had “participated in the operations for liberating the Kursk areas according to the order of the head of state of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea”. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s decision to deploy the troops, it said, was in accordance with a mutual defense treaty.

“They who fought for justice are all heroes and representatives of the honour of the motherland,” Kim said according to KCNA. AFP

TERRITORIAL CONCESSIONS. A rescuer stands next to displayed flowers at the site of a destroyed residential building following a Russian missile attack in Kyiv on Friday. The White House has said that without rapid progress in truce talks, it could walk away from its role as a broker. US President Donald Trump indicated he would give the process ‘two weeks.’ US Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier stressed the importance of the week ahead. But there is still US frustration with both sides, as the war, which has devastated swaths of eastern Ukraine and killed tens of thousands of people, drags on. AFP

SPORTS Wolves push Lakers to brink; Celtics, Knicks, Pacers win

PH’s Yaoyao hopes to crack UCI Top 100

By Randy M. Caluag

Yaoyao continues her steady ascent in the UCI Cross Country Olympic (XCO) rankings, now setting her sights on breaking into the coveted Top 100.

From No. 112 last week, Yaoyao has climbed to No. 107 in the UCI XCO Elite Women’s standings.

The current leader of the Asia MTB Series, Yaoyao is poised to earn 40 additional UCI points after securing a strong ninth-place finish in the Elite Women’s XCO race at the 2025 Asian Mountain Bike Championships held in Guizhou, China.

“We gave it our all to collect more UCI points,” Yaoyao told #rp2sportsradio.

“The course was extremely tough, especially the uphills. The cold weather and high altitude made it even harder, and the rain-soaked trail just before our race added another layer of difficulty. There’s still a lot we need to improve, but we’ll come back stronger in the next race,” she shared.

Yaoyao competed alongside fellow Filipinas Nicole Quiñones (10th) and Adel Pia Sendrijas (15th) in the Elite Women’s event.

In the U23 division, Dianna Marie Costes placed 10th (1:16:15.76), while Adrienne Kate Narvasa finished 11th (1:06:12.50) in the Junior Women’s XCO race.

LOS ANGELES — Anthony Edwards scored 43 points and the Minnesota Timberwolves out-gunned the Los Angeles Lakers down the stretch to win a pulsating NBA playoff clash 116-113 and take a 3-1 lead in their Western Conference first-round series.

Luka Doncic scored 38 points and LeBron James added 27 for the Lakers, who took a 10-point lead into the fourth quarter but are now one game away from elimination.

Jaden McDaniels drove for a basket and drew a foul with 39.5 seconds to play, converting the free throw to put Minnesota up 114-113.

McDaniels then stole an inbounds pass from James and Edwards drew a foul on the Lakers superstar and made two free throws that sealed it as Austin Reaves missed a final three-point attempt.

The Lakers will try to stay alive in the best-of-seven series when they host game five on Wednesday.

Only 13 NBA teams have rallied from 3-1 down to win a playoff series.

“We haven’t lost nothing yet,” Doncic said. “It’s still the first one to four wins.”

The defending champion Boston Celtics, the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers all took 3-1 leads in their Eastern Conference series.

The Celtics held off the Orlando Magic 107-98, the Knicks beat the Detroit Pistons 94-93 and the Pacers led wire-to-wire in a 129-103 victory over the Bucks in Milwaukee.

In Minneapolis, it was a frantic finish to a physical game.

Doncic and James played 46 of the game’s 48 minutes. That included every minute of the second half, when coach JJ Redick stuck to the same five

players throughout.

Trailing by three at halftime, the Lakers opened the third quarter on a 14-0 scoring run and led by as many as 12, taking a 94-84 lead into the final frame.

Edwards scored 16 in the fourth quarter to lead the Timberwolves back.

“I felt like they were gassed going down the stretch,” Edwards said. “So just trying to keep my foot on the pedal and keep going.”

But James, 40, said he didn’t think fatigue was a factor.

“Luka missed a point-blank layup to put us up seven. I missed a pointblank layup to put us up four. We had

a couple opportunities ... I don’t think fatigue had anything to do with that,” he said.

‘There’s contact’

In Detroit, Jalen Brunson scored 32 points and Karl-Anthony Towns’s 27 points for the Knicks included two crucial late baskets.

But the game ended amid controversy as Detroit’s Tim Hardaway Jr. missed a last-gasp shot at the buzzer with no foul called as he was bumped by Josh Hart. Detroit coach J.B. Bickerstaff was fuming that no foul was called but had no challenge remaining.

Suzuki edges ahead as JPGT Splendido battle heats up

LAUREL, Batangas—The race for supremacy in the 11-14 division of the ICTSI Splendido Taal Junior PGT Championship turned into a thrilling showdown, as early Luzon series winners clashed in a high-stakes battle for top honors in blustery conditions here on Monday.

Ryuji Suzuki weathered two late bogeys but held his nerve to card a 77 at the up-and-down Splendido Taal Golf Club, seizing a slender one-shot lead over Vito Sarines in a gripping display of young golfing talent.

Suzuki, who dominated at Eagle Ridge where Sarines finished tied for third, seemed on track to build a commanding lead in the 36-hole tournament after shooting two birdies against two bogeys with three holes left coming in.

However, bogeys on the seventh and ninth holes forced him to settle for a 37-40 round, keeping Sarines – who beat Suzuki by five shots at Sherwood Hills – well within striking distance after posting a 78, highlighted by two birdies on the back nine. Jacob Casuga, who stayed close to the frontrunners early on, faltered with a frontside 42 for an 84, dropping seven shots behind Suzuki. Meanwhile, Matthias Espina and Ryuichi Tao turned in matching 86s, and Robert Coyiuto scored a 92.

Suzuki lamented his struggles on the greens, citing costly errors.

“I could’ve played better if not for two four-

putts,” said Suzuki, who remains well-positioned for another leg win.

“Anything can happen here, but I hope to hit a lot of fairways tomorrow (Tuesday). Because if you don’t, most likely you’ll end up with a bogey,” he added.

The battle for the girls’ plum in the same age group also came down to a shootout, as twin sisters Lisa and Mona Sarines turned in identical 78s with matching 38-40 nines to lead Alexie Gabi by five strokes.

Lisa, who swept the first two legs at Eagle Ridge and Sherwood Hills, had to birdie the final hole (No. 9) to catch Mona, who is determined to end her sister’s early domination of the sevenstage series that stakes ranking points for spots in the North vs South finals.

“My game wasn’t great today (Monday) – I struggled to get my drives on the fairways,” rued Lisa, who carded five bogeys and two double bogeys against three birdies. “I made some birdies, but I just couldn’t really get my game going.”

Looking ahead to the final round, Lisa added: “I need to hit it straight, keep my shots on the fairways, and go for the greens. My goal is to score better than 78, maybe around 3-over or better.”

Mona, meanwhile, admitted she also had her share of struggles.

“My game wasn’t really good either. I didn’t have any birdies, but at least I avoided double bogeys. I know I can do better,” she said.

UST’s Catantan secures 2nd fencing crown in a week

By Peter Atencio

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas

fencer Janna Catantan snared her second individual crown in a week, this time after she topped her event over the weekend in the Philippine Fencing Association’s third leg senior ranking-Dr. Celso Dayrit Memorial Championships

The 21-year-old at Catantan ruled the senior foil honors after besting her sister Sophia in a close contest, 15-14, the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.

Earlier this week, the elder Catantan retained the women’s foil honors at the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Championships, where she repulsed University of the Philippines’ Marina Carbonell, 15-3, in the finals. Catantan, an occupational therapy student, made it to the cham-

pionship round after turning back Wilhelmina Lozada, 15-10, in the semifinals.

Another varsity standout, Christian Concepcion, toppled Jester Concepcion, 15-13, for the senior men’s epee crown, reaching the championship off his 15-13 stoppage of Daniel Villanueva.

The elder Christian fought his way into the semis, after edging Ateneo’s Charles Babatio, 15-5.

National team mainstays Ivy Dinoy, Nathaniel Perez and Jylyn Nicanors took the top honors in their respective divisions, as expected.

Dinoy won over national teammate Hanniel Abella, 12-6, for the senior women’s epee plum, while Perez prevailed over UE’s Shawn Felipe, 15-6.

Nicanor hacked out a 15-6 rout of another UE standout Queen Dalma-

“There’s contact on Tim Hardaway’s jump shot,” Bickerstaff said. “I repeat, there’s contact on his jump shot.” David Guthrie, the officiating crew chief, acknowledged after the game that Bickerstaff was correct, saying that a postgame review showed “Hart makes body contact that is more than marginal to Hardaway Jr. and a foul should have been called.” It was a heartbreaking outcome for the Pistons. Fueled by a 25-point, 10-rebound, 10-assist triple-double from Cade Cunningham, they erased an early 16-point deficit and led by 11 early in the fourth quarter. AFP

NU batters face Falcons, seek return trip to finals

NATIONAL University stakes its throne as it faces Adamson University in the UAAP Season 87 Baseball Final Four today (Tuesday) at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The Bulldogs, aiming for a fifth UAAP title in the sport, will take on a Soaring Falcons’ team coming off a thrilling 16-15 victory over University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons.

NU enters the match armed with a twice-to-beat advantage in the day’s main event.

NU completed an elimination-round sweep of Adamson, securing a 7-4 win in the season opener and a dominant 11-3 victory in the second round.

“Every win naman sa ‘min is important talaga; so kahit alam naming pasok na kami sa semis, kinailangan pa rin naming ‘yung panalo,” said second-year head coach Romar Landicho, reflecting on the reigning champions’ mindset heading into their final elimination-round game against De La Salle University.

“Kinausap naman namin ‘yung mga bata and lahat sila motivated pa rin naman manalo.”

With reigning Best Pitcher Amiel De Guzman getting a well-deserved rest in that last game against the Green Batters, expect the ace to be ready for Tuesday’s encounter with the Soaring Falcons. However, Landicho emphasized the importance of offense in securing a Final ticket in just one game saying, “We’ll focus on our hitting pa rin; ‘yun rin naman ‘yung lagging approach naming sa team. And at the same time, huwag lang rin kaming magpapabaya sa depensa.”

Meanwhile, University of Santo Tomas, the league’s leader in baseball championships with 24 titles, will look to replicate its 4-3 win over De La Salle on April 13 to force a winner-take-all game on Saturday.

The Green Batters, who triumphed 8-6 in a 10-inning thriller during the first round, ended the elimination round with a 6-4 win-loss record, narrowly ahead of the Golden Sox’s 5-5. Long-time head coach Jeff Santiago is focused on having

FILIPINA mountain biking star Shagne

Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves drives to the basket during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers during Round 1 Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. AFP

Shagne Yaoyao

Janna Catantan

cio, who recently led her school to the UAAP’s women’s team epee crown.

Noelito Jose ruled the men’s epee side after he took down UE’s Reynaldo Perez, 15-8.

Ryuji Suzuki Manny Marcelo

Noodles’ Joseph

celebrates his solo stage

in

Sports Vision sets sights on bigger volley challenges

FOR an organization initially hesitant to take on the challenge, Sports Vision’s seamless organization and execution of the just-concluded AVC Women’s Volleyball Champions League proved nothing short of spectacular.

Despite being tapped on short notice after Korea and Vietnam backed out due to logistical issues, Sports Vision –through its Premier Volleyball League –rose to the occasion. Top officials from the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) were unanimous in their praise of the smooth and successful staging of what used to be the Asian Club Championship for Men and Women.

‘Excellent’ victory for Javiniar

By Riera U. Mallari

CLARK― Joseph Javiniar of Excellent Noodles Cycling Team rode a brilliant solo breakaway to clinch the stage victory in Monday’s fi fth stage of the MPTC Tour of Luzon: The Great Revival, even as South Korean Joo Dae Yeong maintained his overall lead in the general classifi cation.

Javiniar broke away from a speeding seven-man lead group as they neared the finish line, raising his arm in triumph as he secured his first career stage win.

“Hindi ko inaasahan itong panalo. Mahirap magmula simula. Akala ko nga paubos na ako sa ahon, tyinaga ko lang,” said Javiniar after completing the 160.6-kilometer course in three hours, 29 minutes, and 20 seconds.

It was a historic win for Excellent Noodles, which recorded its first triumph in the tour.

“A long-awaited win, the boys did very well, they really wanted to win and so they got it. We believed that the stage is a crucial one and this will separate the pack. We anticipate that the finish will be in a manner of a breakaway so we tried to be in the front and we told our riders that they have to make the move. And once they are there, they had to keep it that way and try for a stage win,” said Excellent Noodles owner Alex Billan, himself a competitive and avid rider.

“It feels very good, very excellent. This has been the goal, a dream come true,” Billan added.

Jonel Carcueva of MPT Drivehub, a three-time national road cycling champion, finished strongly in second place, 42 seconds behind Javiniar, while Marc

Japan’s Saigo wins playo for LPGA title, 1st major win

HOUSTON—Japan’s Mao Saigo birdied the first extra hole to win a fivewoman playoff and capture her first major title on Sunday at the LPGA Chevron Championship.

Saigo sank a tension-packed birdie putt on the 18th hole in regulation to fire a final-round two-over par 74 at Carlton Woods and finish 72 holes on seven-under 281 just to reach the playoff. At the 18th again in the playoff, Saigo sank a four-foot birdie putt to capture the crown after clutch putt misses by her rivals. Saigo, a 23-year-old who was last year’s LPGA Rookie of the Year, defeated China’s Yin Ruoning, South Korean Kim Hyo-joo, Thailand’s Ariya Jutanugarn and American Lindy Duncan in the playoff.

“It was my dream to earn this major. I was able to realize my dream and I’m very happy,” Saigo said.

“It means a lot that I made a birdie putt on 18. That gave me more confidence for the playoff.” Saigo plans to carry that confidence boost into the remainder of the campaign.

“I’m extremely excited,” she said.

“I still have four more majors to go and I want to shoot for number one in the world.” The playoff was at the par-five 18th and Yin reached the green in two by blasting over a water hazard. Saigo and Ariya each went over the green with their second shots, Duncan was short of the green in three and Kim found the green near Yin’s ball with her third shot.

Ariya and Saigo missed their eagle bids, setting the stage for Yin’s eagle attempt to win from about 12 feet. It went eight feet past the hole as tension mounted. AFP

Ryan Lago of Go For Gold Cycling Team rounded out the day’s podium finishers.

The three riders were part of an initial eight-man group that launched an attack early in the race, right after the neutral zone on the iconic Sacobia Bridge in Mabalacat, Pampanga. The race then took the riders to New Clark City in Tarlac before returning to the former United States airbase.

The breakaway group maintained its lead through challenging rolling and winding terrain, as well as the intense heat, as they reached San Jose in Tarlac. These conditions tested the remaining 99 riders from 16 teams in the eight-stage race, presented by DuckWorld PH and Cignal.

“Nagtulungan kami sa breakway group, palitan lang kami sa harap, pero nu’ng huling 5 kilometers, nagkakagulo na, kaya doon na ako kumawala,”said Javiniar, who used to wok as a waiter in his hometown of Pagsanjan, Laguna, before dedicating himself to cycling.

The individual general classification standings saw little change at the top, with Joo Dae Yeong retaining the yellow jersey for the fourth consecutive day. The prominent sprinter from

Joseph Javiniar with Karljohn Billan Roman Prospero South Korea’s Gapyeong Cycling Team finished with a large group of riders, including his main rivals, just one minute behind the stage winner.

Joo continues to hold a four-minute and 30-second lead over Ronald Oranza of Standard Insurance Philippines.

Aidan James Mendoza of Go For Gold Cycling Team remained in third overall, 4 minutes and 36 seconds back, while Dominic Perez of Exodus Army Cycling Team stayed in fourth (4:43), and Mervin Corpuz of MPT Drivehub maintained fifth place (4:44).

“At first, it was supposed to be Korea, then Vietnam. But after some challenges, we talked to Ricky Palou and Don Caringal, and agreed there was no other choice but to host it here,” said AVC and Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon Suzara.

He also thanked the PVL for stepping up:

“This is an important event. We appreciate Sports Vision’s commitment. Since I became president, we’ve worked to rebrand the Champions League to create a new image for AVC, and this hosting was a perfect start,” said Suzara. Palou, president of Sports Vision and the PVL, humbly shared the credit with his team, emphasizing the collective effort that ensured the successful hosting of 12 top clubs from 10 different countries. Beyond just pulling off the event, Palou noted that hosting the Champions League provided valuable insights that will help further strengthen the organization of the country’s premier women’s volleyball league.

Sports Vision has long been at the forefront of Philippine volleyball, having revived the sport in 2004 with the Shakey’s V-League, and later rebranding it into the PVL. In 2021, it transitioned into a full-fledged professional league while continuing to organize the Spikers’ Turf for men and the VLeague for collegiate teams.

Gratitude poured in from AVC officials, including Suzara and secretarygeneral Hugh Graham, who lauded the PVL for its readiness, professionalism, and smooth management despite the limited preparation time.

Tapales claims WBC title with 3rd-round knockout

By Lito delos Reyes

FORMER world champion Marlon “Night-

mare” Tapales of Lanao del Norte made a dominant return, stopping Indonesia’s Jon Jon “Triple J” Jet in the third round to capture the vacant WBC International Silver super bantamweight title on April 27 at Venue 88 in General Santos City.

The 33-year-old Tapales landed a series of powerful shots that bloodied Jet’s nose, forcing the taller Indonesian fighter to retire at the end of the third round.

Demonstrating sportsmanship, Tapales immediately went to Jet’s corner to check on his opponent’s condition, with medical personnel also attending to the Indonesian afterward.

The win marked Tapales’ 40th career victory — his 21st by knockout — against just

MVP Group backs FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship staging

THE MVP Group, headed by chairman and staunch sports advocate Manuel V. Pangilinan, formalized its ironclad support for the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) for the historic staging of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship Philippines 2025 from September 12 to 28. Pangilinan and PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara sealed the deal yesterday (Monday) at the Lighthouse in Meralco Building in Ortigas, signaling another fruitful partnership two years after teaming up in the rousing success of the FIBA Basketball World Cup hosting in 2023.

“It’s the pleasure of the MVP

group to support the PNVF. It’s only about two years ago when we hosted the Basketball World Cup and now, we’re hosting volleyball as part of our vision in promoting the Philippine as a sporting and tourism destination,” said Pangilinan, who brings along PLDT, Smart, Meralco, Metro Pacific Investments, Cignal and mWell as among the few companies under his belt for an all-out backing to PNVF. “We wish the federation well in its hosting duties and we want to reaffirm our support for the world-class event,” Pangilinan said. “All the best, Tats.” PLDT, the county’s largest telecommunications network,

will serve as the official broadband internet partner, while media giant Cignal TV is the official broadcast partner of the men’s volleyball world conclave that will be hosted by the country for the first time ever.

“The MVP group has been supporting our national teams and this partnership signifies our shared vision to uplift the sport, inspire athletes and galvanize fans across the nation together as one. Maraming salamat boss MVP. Mabuhay po ang MVP Group of Companies,” added Suzara, also the concurrent executive vice president of the FIVB and the president of the Asian Volleyball Confederation.

four defeats. Jet, meanwhile, suffered only the second loss of his career, falling to a record of 15 wins, two losses, and one draw.

In the co-main event, Joey “The Babyface” Canoy of General Santos City outclassed Minh Phat Sam of Vietnam to claim the vacant WBC International minimumweight title.

The 31-year-old Canoy consistently landed crisp combinations throughout the fight, ultimately forcing Sam’s corner to throw in the towel in the 10th and final round. Referee Almar Kelly Odiong promptly stopped the bout and declared Canoy the winner.

The boxing event, dubbed “Ballroom Boxing,” was promoted by JC Manangquil and Dexter Tan of Sanman Boxing and sanctioned by the Games and Amusements Board (GAB), led by Chairman Atty. Francisco Rivera.

Marlon ‘Nightmare’Tapales celebrates his victory with referee Almar Kelly Odiong (right), joined by (from left) JC Manangquil, GAB Chairman Atty. Francisco Rivera, and Dexter Tan. Photo by Sanman

Excellent

Javiniar

finish

the MPTC Tour of Luzon. Roman Prospero

Manny V. Pangilinan (right) and PNVF chief Ramon ‘Tats’ Suzara formalize their pact with a handshake.

THE National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) unveiled its logo as the reorganized Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev).

DEPDev said its reorganization makes it better equipped to ensure policy continuity through long-term strategic planning and foresight.

It said this would bring about “comprehensive planning, coordination, and implementation of policies that will uplift every Filipino.”

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act No. 12145 creating DEPDev.

“Today, we celebrate a significant milestone in our nation’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable progress,” DEPDev said.

numerous interagency bodies and councils, in addition to its central mandate in policy formulation, development planning, investment programming, and monitoring and evaluation, DEPDev said.

“With its transformation into a full-fledged executive department, DEPDev is now better equipped to ensure policy continuity and coherence through long-term strategic planning and foresight. This enhanced capability will drive comprehensive planning, coordination, and implementation of policies that will uplift every Filipino,” it said.

DTI to ask lower US tariffs in key bilateral meeting

By Othel V. Campos

Tracing its roots back to the National Economic Council established in 1935, NEDA has evolved significantly.

Over the years, it has expanded its role to include oversight of

It said the reorganization strengthens its mandate, institutional independence and capacity as the country’s primary policy, planning, coordinating, and monitoring arm of the Executive branch on the national economy.

“As we embrace this change, we look forward to a more prosperous and equitable Philippines. Together, let’s support DEPDev in its mission to build a better tomorrow for all,” it said.

The Philippines will push for lower reciprocal tariffs with the US, as Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque confirmed plans to engage in high-level negotiations aimed at benefiting key industries.

The mission leaves on Tuesday, Roque said during a briefing following the memorandum of understanding signing between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) on Monday.

The negotiations seek to address reciprocal tariff rates, with Frasco expressing confidence that these talks would help secure a more favorable tariff arrangement for the Philippines.

“We’ve already met with stakeholders, and they’ve presented their wish lists,” Roque said, adding that key sectors, including exporters and manufacturers. While the Philippines is starting from a lower base compared to other countries, local stakeholders are urging the government to at least maintain the current 17 percent tariff rate if significant reductions are not achievable.

Roque said the government is prioritizing industries with significant export activities like the agriculture sector to ensure that the country’s interests are safeguarded.

The DTI and IBPAP signed an MOU to enhance the promotion and implementation of PQA-related

ABOITIZ Foods announced plans to expand into East Malaysia (Borneo) by 2025, investing in an integrated feed-to-farm business model in collaboration with a local joint venture partner.

“We’re studying expansions in East Malaysia in 2025, and this will entail us building out an integrated feed-to-farm business model together with a joint venture partner in that country,” Aboitiz Foods president and chief executive Tristan Aboitiz said during the annual stockholders’ briefing Monday.

This follows a recent expansion of feed milling capacity in Vietnam, increasing the Long An plant’s output to 300,000 metric tons annually as the plant approaches full-capacity output.

The $45-million facility plans to increase its manufacturing capacity to 300,000 tons of animal nutrition feed annually from 200,000 MT.

Aboitiz said the company allocated capital expenditures this year for the construction of research and development farms in Malaysia, Vietnam and the Philippines to support its feed business growth.

“We have seen stronger-than-expected feed volume growth in the Philippines and Indonesia over the past 12 months, which has prompted further studies for expansion in these markets,” he said.

Aboitiz also cited the company’s recent expansion in China, where it opened a new feed mill in Yunnan under the Gold Coin brand.

The Yunnan facility has an initial capacity of 150,000 metric tons per year, with plans to increase capacity to 270,000 metric tons.

The company is also refurbishing several of its finisher farms in Tarlac province to support sow population growth.

Addressing global risks, Aboitiz pointed to the potential impact of trade tariffs on raw material costs, particularly for corn, soybeans and wheat, much of which is sourced from the United States.

“Initially, my concern was about short-term volatility because if US products like corn and soybeans become preferred under trade concessions, prices could jump. But long term, prices are more influenced by global supply and demand, not just tariffs,” he said. Othel V. Campos

We’ve already met with stakeholders, and they’ve presented their wish lists.

activities, specifically tailored to the IT-Business Process Management (IT-BPM) sector’s needs. IT & Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) president Jack Madrid both parties committed to promoting PQA-related activities that specifically address the needs of the IT-BPM industry until 2027. Roque said the MOU reflects the government’s commitment to supporting the IT-BPM industry, which continues to be a major contributor to the economy. “This is an important industry that provides many jobs and highpaying opportunities,” she said, underscoring the government’s ongoing efforts to maintain a competitive business environment in the Philippines.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

Please be advised that the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Meeting”) of OCEANAGOLD (PHILIPPINES), INC. (the “Company”) will be conducted in person and online on 16 June 2025, at 10:00 a.m. to be presided at the Company’s principal office address at Didipio Mine, Didipio, Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines.

The order of business at the Meeting will be as follows:

1. Call to order

2. Certification of notice and quorum

3. Approval of the minutes of the annual stockholders’ meeting held on 25 January 2024 4. Presentation of the Chairman’s report and annual report, and approval of the audited financial statements for the year 2024

5. Ratification of all acts of the board of directors since the last annual stockholders’ meeting (held on 25 January 2024) adopted in the ordinary course of business

6. Election of the members of the board of directors including the independent directors for the ensuing year

7. Appointment of the Company’s external auditors

8. Other matters

A brief statement of the rationale and explanation for each agenda item which requires shareholders’ approval are incorporated in the Definitive Information Statement which will be published through the PSE EDGE portal and Company website.

Stockholders of record as of the Record Date owning (alone or together with other stockholders) at least 5% of the Company’s total outstanding capital stock may submit proposals on items for inclusion in the Meeting’s agenda on or before 31 May 2025.

The Board has set 15 April 2025 as the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to the Notice and to vote at the Meeting.

Stockholders who wish to participate in the Meeting must register by completing the registration form (“Registration Form”) and all required attachments, and submit the same to oceana.asm@stocktransfer.com.ph (cc: CorporateSecretaryph@oceanagold.com) for validation. Registration begins on 1 May 2025 and closes on 20 May 2025 (“Registration Period”).

The requirements and procedure for participating and voting, including the Registration Form, proxy form and period for voting in absentia, may be accessed via the Company’s website at https://didipiomine.com.ph/annual-generalmeetings/ and will be available beginning 1 May 2025.

The Annual Report for the year 2024 (and the accompanying Audited Financial Statements and Sustainability Report) (https://didipiomine.com.ph/annual-informationforms/), as well as the minutes of the 2024 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting (https://didipiomine.com.ph/minutes-of-all-generalor-special-stockholders-meetings/) are available for download and/or viewing on the links provided and the Company Disclosures section at the PSE EDGE portal at edge.pse.com.ph. The Definitive Information Statement will be available once approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission which is estimated on or around 23 May 2025.

KARINA P. DULINAYAN Corporate Secretary

SOLAR FARM. To cap off its 2025 Earth Day weeklong celebration, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment Staff (ANRES) organizes a learning event and site visit on April 24, 2025 at the Alaminos Solar Farm located within Ayala Land’s Carbon Forest in Laguna province. The facility supplies clean energy to the local grid and demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability and inclusive growth.

Department of Trade and Industry

Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque

PH stocks close lower on profit-taking

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE shares opened the week in the red as investors took profits after last Friday’s climb.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) was trading in the green during the morning session. However, the index turned negative in the afternoon due to last-minute profit-taking, closing at 6,249.50—down 19.25 points or 0.31 percent.

The broader all shares index also ended in negative territory, dropping 14.60 points or 0.40 percent to 3,681.09.

Analysts said investors remained cautious amid lingering trade tensions.

The index further declined after the World Bank (WB) cut its growth forecast for the Philippines to below 6 percent from its previous target of 6.1 percent, citing global uncertainty.

The services sector led the gainers, rising by 1.33 percent, followed by property and holding firms, which advanced by 0.24 percent and 0.11 percent, respectively.

On the other hand, the financial sector declined by 1.86 percent, mining and oil fell

by 0.86 percent, and industrials dropped by 0.28 percent.

Value turnover reached P5.135 billion. Foreign investors were net buyers, with inflows at P228.16 million.

Bloomberry Resorts Corp. was the top index gainer, rising 10.28 percent to P3.54 per share, while shares of BDO Unibank Inc. declined 3.42 percent to P155.50 apiece.

Asian stocks mostly rose on Monday as investors assess how the land lies on the trade war front with countries seeking to temper Donald Trump’s eye-watering tariffs.Investors were also keeping tabs on China after President Xi Jinping and other top leaders last week discussed plans

to boost consumption in the world’s number two economy.

Markets started Monday on a tepid note after a much-needed positive run-up last week, with eyes on the upcoming earnings season, key data and central bank decisions.

“We head into month-end and a risk eventheavy trading week, with a ‘cautiously optimistic’ stance adopted by the collective,” said Chris Weston at Pepperstone.”

“Whether the move in risk can kick (on) will be determined by the incoming economic data and US company earnings, but the bar to beat expectations remains low and the wall of worry is there for climbing.” With AFP

UNDOUBTEDLY, one of the greatest success stories of the post-World War II era has been the rapid and steady development of the world economy. Northern Hemisphere or Southern Hemisphere country, newly independent nation or not, the nearly 200 countries and territories that make up the international community have experienced significant economic growth and broad social transformation.

Countries and territories whose economies were essentially primary in character – exporters of some unprocessed goods and importers of virtually all other products and services – have developed manufacturing capabilities of one degree or another and have become active participants in international commerce. There is no country or territory in today’s world that has no productive capability and does not export and import processed goods and services.

This worldwide economic transformation did not just happen. It has been the result of the operation of two basic economic precepts.

The first precept is known formally as the theory of comparative advantage. What this means in practice is that a country should concentrate on goods and services in whose production it enjoys a comparative advantage, i.e., can produce those goods and services less expensively than its competitors. The precept tells a country, in effects, that it should not try to produce goods and services that its competitors can produce at less cost.

This assumes that the competition is fair and that a country does not seek to remedy its competitive disadvantage through unfair means, such as the provision of a subsidy. When that happens, the imposition of a tariff is proper.

The second precept that has been responsible for the post-World War II transformation and growth of the world economy is the policy of cooperation and understanding that has been maintained by the industrial countries – the members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) – toward the developing countries, particularly by the erstwhile metropolitan countries, toward their former Asian, Latin American and African colonies. In order

The second Presidency of Donald Trump has embarked upon a program of disrupting the world economic order.

to aid the economies of the developing countries, and for competitive reasons, the industrial countries have over the years allowed, and in some instances encouraged, their businessmen to establish productive facilities in those countries.

With the specialized agencies of the United Nations acting as assertors and referees, things have been working out well for the world economy during the eight decades of the past -World War II era.

Now the second Presidency of Donald Trump has embarked upon a program of disrupting the world economic order. Trump has put in place across the- board “reciprocal tariffs” against all of the US’s trading partners, whether friend or adversary and whether developed or developing. And he has clearly indicated his desire to see American companies move their manufacturing operations back to the US to avoid having to pay the new tariffs. All in the name of Mak(ing) American Great Again.

The Trump administration also has closed down the largest and bestknown governmental aid institution in the world, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Besides providing health care, education and other social assistance benefits to the developing countries, USAID has over the decades been helping small businessmen get started and enter the world markets for goods and services. Apart from the cessation of the deployment of US soft power, the shuttering of USAID has left a gaping hole in the structure of First World aid to a needy Third World. By undermining its two guiding precepts, Donald Trump’s administration has destroyed the basis upon which the post-World War II World economy’s stability and development have

CANADIAN FLAVORS.

(From left) Joel Orense, treasurer & chief finance officer; Manuel Alberto, president and chief operating officer; H. E. David Bruce Hartman, Ambassador of Canada to the Philippines; Sherisa Nuesa, chairperson of the board; and Margaret Gaisano Ang, vice-chairman of Metro Retail Stores Group, Inc., during the ceremonial launch of Explore Canadian Flavours at Metro Supermarket Market! Market! in Taguig City.

NLEX’s income rises 21% on toll adjustments

By Darwin G. Amojelar

NLEX Corp. said Monday net income rose 21 percent last year, driven by higher toll revenues and controlled costs.

The operator of North Luzon Expressway and Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) posted a net income of P12.07 billion last year, higher from P10.01 billion in 2023.

The company’s toll revenues amounted to P25.31 billion, up by 18 percent compared to the prior year due to higher traffic figures and implementation of overdue toll rate adjustments.

Its toll revenues were comprised of 78 percent from NLEX, 18 percent from SCTEX and 4 percent from Connector.

The company also generated higher revenues from toll services facilities in 2024 amounting to P150 million, higher by 35 percent compared to the P111 million recorded in 2023.

Cost of services increased to P8.42 billion, 12 percent higher than 2023 figures.

“The increase in costs was largely due to higher concession and PNCC fees which were charged as a fixed percentage of toll revenues, higher pavement repairs and maintenance costs of roads and tollways and higher amortization of concession assets due to the higher traffic,” NLEX said.

The NLEX currently spans approximately 105 kilometers or 598 lane-kms, and services an average of 350,599 vehicles per day as of end-2024.

The NLEX is the main infrastructure backbone that connects Metro Manila to central and northern Luzon. NLEX Corp has operated the NLEX since February 2005 after completing the rehabilitation of the toll road under Phase I of the NLEX Concession.

The SCTEX , on the other hand, is a 91km or 362 lane-kms, stretching from SubicTipo until La Paz, Tarlac, connecting the special economic zones in Subic and Clark, Olongapo City to Tarlac City

Cemex changes name to Concreat under new owners

By Jenniffer B. Austria

CEMEX Holdings Philippines has officially changed its name to Concreat Holdings Philippines, Inc., marking a major step in the company’s transition under new ownership.

Cemex said the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved the change in its corporate name last April 25, less than five months after the Consunji group took over the cement firm.

The new name, “Concreat,” is a blend of the Consunji name and the word “create.” It reflects the company’s new direction focused on integrity, resilience, and nation-building — values long associated with DMCI.

“This rebranding represents a bold new direction under DMCI management, guided by an all-Filipino team deeply rooted in local insight and long-term stewardship,” said Concreat Holdings Philippines president and chief executive officer Herbert M. Consunji.

“While challenges remain, DMCI has a strong track record of navigating industry cycles with discipline and determination. We are especially grateful to the previous management of Cemex Philippines for laying the groundwork we now proudly build upon,” Consunji said.

Concreat will continue to operate its Solid Cement Plant in Antipolo City and the Apo Cement Plant in Naga, Cebu and will continue to produce cement under the well-known brands like Rizal, Island, and APO.

“Concreat symbols a blend of concrete strength and shared vision,” Consunji said. “It brings together Cemex Philippines’ national footprint and DMCI’s broad capabilities across construction, real estate, energy, mining and water services. Our integration goes beyond operations—it is built on shared values and a collective commitment to nation-building,” Consunji said. The cement firm widened its net loss to P23.4 billion in 2024 from P2.1 billion a year ago due to lower sales and goodwill revaluation, which resulted in one-off, non-cash write-down of P19.6 billion.

Excluding non-recurring items, core net losses in 2024 and to P3.7 billion.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING

MAY 21, 2025 (WEDNESDAY) AT 10:00 A.M. VIA ZOOM

TO: ALL STOCKHOLDERS OF GMA NETWORK, INC.

The Agenda of the said Meeting is as follows:

1. Call to Order

2. Certification of Notice and Quorum

3. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on May 15, 2024

4. Annual Report of the President and Chief Executive Officer and approval of the Audited Financial Statements of GMA for the year ended December 31, 2024

5. Ratification of the Acts of the Board of Directors, Executive Committee and Management

6. Approval of the Meritorious Justifications for the Retention of Former Chief Justice Artemio V. Panganiban and Dr. Jaime C. Laya as Independent Directors

7.Election of Directors (including the Independent Directors)

8. Appointment of the External Auditor

9. Other Matters 10. Adjournment

Please be notified that the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting of GMA Network, Inc. (the “Company” or “GMA”) will be held on May 21, 2025 (Wednesday) at 10:00 a.m. via the Zoom application through: https://us06web.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_3Kmd474yQcS4h6YgBxK_ZA ANNEX “A” BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF EACH AGENDA ITEM

Call to Order

The Chairman will call the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. on May 21, 2025.

Certification of Notice and Quorum

The Corporate Secretary will certify that a written notice of the meeting was duly sent to the stockholders and that a quorum exists for the transaction of business. Kindly see Procedure for (1) Registration, Participation and Attendance in the GMA 2025 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting by Remote Communication and (2) Voting in Absentia under Annex “A” of the Notice of the Meeting contained in the DIS.

Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting Held on May 15, 2024

The approval of the Minutes of the previous year’s Annual Stockholders’ Meeting is made part of the agenda for transparency and in order to comply with the requirements of the Company’s By-laws, the Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines (Republic Act No. 11232), as well as the pertinent rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). A copy of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on May 15, 2024 was posted on the Company’s website within five (5) business days from adjournment of the said meeting and is attached to the Notice of the Meeting contained in the DIS as Annex “I” thereof. These minutes are subject to stockholders’ approval during this year’s meeting.

Annual Report of the President and Chief Executive Officer and Approval of the Audited Financial Statements of GMA for the year ended December 31, 2024

The Annual Report of the President and the Chief Executive Officer is made part of the Agenda in order to inform the stockholders of the Company’s ratings and financial performance during the previous year and to adhere to the principles of transparency and good corporate governance.

A brief description of each item is summarized under Annex “A” of the herein Notice. Moreover, the rationale for each agenda item is set forth in detail under Annex “B” of the Notice of the Meeting attached to the Definitive Information Statement SEC Form 20-IS (“DIS”). The DIS, the Management Report, and the Annual Report, and other pertinent documents may be viewed at and downloaded from the Company’s website via www.gmanetwork.com/ asm2025 and the PSE Edge.

For purposes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting, the Board of Directors has set April 29, 2025 (Tuesday) as the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to notice, to participate, and to vote in absentia, at such meeting and any adjournment thereof.

The Company will be conducting the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting, including the attendance and participation therein, via remote communication, particularly, through the Zoom application.

Stockholders who intend to attend and participate via remote communication and/or vote in absentia shall notify the Office of the Corporate Secretary by email to GMA2025ASM@gmanetwork.com beginning April 29, 2025 (Tuesday) until May 13, 2025 (Tuesday) and shall register in accordance with the procedure set forth in the attached Procedure for (1) Registration, Participation and Attendance in the GMA 2025 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting by Remote Communication and (2) Voting in Absentia (Annex “A” of the Notice of Meeting attached to the DIS) and in the DIS. All information to be submitted as required under said Annex “A” shall be subject to verification and validation by the Corporate Secretary. Upon successful registration, the meeting link will be sent to the participant/stockholder.

Voting for matters to be submitted for approval, including the election of directors, shall be made in absentia through a secure online voting facility. Once duly registered, the stockholder may vote in absentia

In addition to the Annual Report, the Audited Financial Statements (AFS) for the year ended December 31, 2024 which were reviewed in audit by the Company’s independent external auditor, Sycip Gorres Velayo & Co., and reviewed by and approved by the Board of Directors as recommended by the Audit Committee of the Company on March 31, 2025, are also submitted for the approval of the Company’s stockholders. Stockholders may request a hard or soft copy of the Annual Report and AFS through GMA2025ASM@gmanetwork.com. The Annual Report and the AFS are also accessible via the Company’s website. The Company’s 2024 AFS is also attached to the Notice of Meeting contained in the DIS as Annex “G” thereof.

Ratification of all Acts of the Board of Directors, Executive Committee and Management

The acts of the Board of Directors, Executive Committee and Management taken or adopted since the last Annual Stockholders’ Meeting on May 15, 2024 until meeting date were duly deliberated upon prior to their approval and were conducted in the Company’s ordinary course of business. The aforementioned acts of the Board of Directors, Executive Committee and Management are submitted for approval to the stockholders in compliance with the Company’s By-laws, the Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines, as well as the pertinent rules and regulations of the SEC.

Approval of the Meritorious Justifications for the Retention of Former Chief Justice Artemio V. Panganiban and Dr. Jaime C. Laya as Independent Directors

On March 28, 2025, the Board of Directors of the Company provided meritorious reasons for the retention of former Chief Justice Artemio V. Panganiban and Dr. Jaime Laya as Independent Directors, subject to the stockholders’ approval at the May 21, 2025 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting. The meritorious reasons for the recommended retention of former Chief Justice Artemio V. Panganiban and Dr. Jaime Laya as Independent Directors of the Company are set forth in Annex “B-1” of the Notice of Meeting attached to the DIS.

SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES.

The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), together with the local government unit (LGU) of Victorias City, breaks ground for the Sidlak Residential Complex, a housing project under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s flagship Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (#4PH) Program. Located in Barangay 13, Victorias City, Negros Occidental, the Sidlak Residential Complex will have 10 mid-rise buildings within a 2.5-hectare development with around 1,200 condominiumstyle units designed to support a healthy, inclusive, and sustainable community.

on or before May 19, 2025 (Monday) in accordance with the procedure set forth in Annex “A” of the Notice of Meeting attached to the DIS. In order to allow time to validate the votes, the deadline to cast votes shall be on or before May 19, 2025. Votes submitted after May 19, 2025 will no longer be included in the tabulation of the total votes cast for each of the items in the Agenda.

We are not soliciting your proxy. However, if you are unable to attend the meeting but would like to be represented thereat, you may accomplish the sample Proxy Form(s) annexed as Annexes “C” and “D” of the Notice of the Meeting attached to the DIS. Stockholders who wish to appoint a proxy should submit in advance the electronic copies of their duly accomplished forms during registration and must send the originals to the Office of the Corporate Secretary at 15/F Sagittarius Building, H.V. De la Costa Street, Salcedo Village, Makati on or before May 9, 2025 (Friday) at no later than 3:00 p.m., for validation purposes. Any stockholder may vote by proxy provided that such authorization remains unrevoked and on file with, or is submitted to, the undersigned at the said address.

A video and audio recording of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting will be available online ten (10) days after the meeting and the recording shall be available for access by the requesting stockholder within thirty (30) days from the posting date, subject to the stockholder’s compliance with the requirements set forth in Annex “A” of the Notice of the Meeting attached to the DIS.

For complete information on the annual meeting, kindly visit www.gmanetwork.com/asm2025 through the QR Code provided hereunder.

Election of Directors

The incumbent Directors have been recommended by the Company’s Nomination Committee for reelection. On the basis of the nominated directors’ proven track record as shown by the results of the Company’s performance and after review of their qualifications, the said Directors were recommended for re-election by the Nomination Committee. Their appointment is submitted for approval to the stockholders in compliance with the Company’s By-laws, the Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines, as well as the rules and regulations of the SEC. The procedure followed for the nomination of Directors is set forth under Annex “B” of the Notice of the Meeting attached to the DIS.

Appointment of the External Auditor

Upon the recommendation of the Audit Committee and after proper deliberation, the Board approved the re-appointment of SyCip Gorres & Velayo & Co. (SGV & Co.) as the Company’s external auditor for the year 2025. SGV & Co.’s appointment is submitted for approval to the stockholders in compliance with the Company’s Revised Manual on Corporate Governance, the Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines, as well as the pertinent rules and regulations of the SEC.

Other Matters

The Chairman will open the floor for comments and questions by the stockholders, and to take up other items, if any, included on the agenda upon a request/notice received from qualified stockholders in accordance with existing laws, rules and regulations of the SEC (such as, but not limited to, SEC Memorandum Circular No. 14, series of 2020 on stockholders’ right to put items on the Agenda for Regular/Special Stockholders’ Meeting).

Adjournment

Upon determination by the Corporate Secretary that there are no other matters to be considered, and on motion by a stockholder duly seconded, the Chairman shall declare the meeting adjourned. This formally ends the GMA 2025 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting.

Higher power demand boosted Meralco’s Q1 earnings

By Alena Mae S. Flores

POWER retailer Manila Electric Co.

(Meralco) said Monday it booked an 11-percent increase in consolidated core net income to P11.172 billion in the first quarter of 2025 from P10.083 billion a year ago.

“Our first-quarter results reflect a strong start in 2025, with solid financial performance across the business portfolio,” Meralco senior vice president and chief finance officer Betty Sy-Yap said during the company’s first-quarter results briefing.

“The CCNI contribution of our regulated or distribution business was from the 2 percent growth in

UnionBank earned P1.4b in first 3 months

UNIONBANK of the Philippines (UBP), the banking arm of the Aboitiz Group, on Monday reported a lower net income of P1.4 billion in the first quarter of 2025, despite strong revenue growth.

The decline was mainly due to onetime tax-related write-offs and frontloaded non-recurring costs, UBP said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

The bank said its total revenues reached P19.4 billion, an increase of 8.4 percent compared to the same period last year. The growth was led by a stronger consumer lending business, wider net interest margins and higher fee-based income.

Consumer loans now make up 62 percent of the total loan portfolio, which is nearly three times higher than the industry average. The bank attributed this to its diversified strategy, particularly in credit cards, personal loans, and teachers’ loans. Net interest margin rose by 69 basis points to 6.3 perent, helped by highermargin consumer loans and lower funding costs.

Fee-based income also increased 21.3 percent to P3.7 billion, as more transactions came from its growing customer base. The bank now has 17.6 million retail clients.

UnionBank said despite the drop in profit, it remains confident about the rest of the year.

“The underlying drivers of our financial performance remain solid. We continue to see substantial new client acquisitions month-on-month as well as expansion of our net interest margin and fee-based income. These indicate that the strong revenue trend will be sustained. Moreover, if we normalize for the impact of one-offs, our net income would be comparable to prior quarters,” UBP chief financial officer Manuel Lozano said. Jenniffer B. Austria

consolidated energy sales volume for Meralco and Clark Electric and Shin Clark, to 12,493 gigawatt hours from last year’s 12,307 gigawatt hours,” she said.

Meralco chairman Manuel Pangilinnan did not give a full-year CCNI forecast, but said the company targets a “low double-digit growth.”

“[It’s] gonna be tough year overall for the economy. The World Bank reduced forecast of Philippine gross domestic product which is sort of an indicator that it will be a tough year for a number of reasons. Probably still early days but target is to produce a low double-digit growth in the core net income,” Pangilinan said.

The World Bank, in its East Asia and the Pacific Economic Update for April 2025, reduced its 2025 growth forecast for the Philippines to 5.3 percent from an earlier estimate of 6.1 percent.

Meralco’s consolidated distribution utility sales volume reached 12,493 gigawatt-hours during the period, owing to the newly-energized accounts that drove growth in the residential segment.

The commercial segment accounted for the largest share of the sales mix at 38 percent, which closed the quarter with 4,744 GWh of energy sales volume, up by 1 percent from 4,679 GWh.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

HILIPPINE National Bank (PNB) on Monday reported a consolidated net income of P6.1 billion in the first quarter of 2025, up 15 percent from P5.3 billion recorded in the same period last year.

Core income rose 10 percent to P14.1 billion from P12.87 billion in the first quarter of 2024. Net interest income increased 9 percent to P12.7 billion, driven by higher loan volumes and an increase in treasury assets.

Other income rose to P1.9 billion from P1.2 billion a year ago due to gains from trading, foreign exchange transactions and the sale of foreclosed properties.

Operating expenses also went up by 10 percent to P8.1 billion as the bank continued to grow its consumer business. Taxes and licenses advanced due to higher business volume.

Provision for impairment losses dropped 55 percent to P277 million from a year ago. PNB credited this to improved loan quality and stronger credit underwriting.

“The first-quarter financial results this year reflect the strength of PNB’s franchise in its wholesale and retail businesses. Excluding the impact of

BANK of the Philippine Islands said Monday it will offer P5 billion worth of fixed-rate BPI Supporting Inclusion, Nature and Growth Bonds (BPI SINAG Bonds) next month.

The planned offering will be issued as the first tranche under BPI’s P200-billion bond and commercial paper program approved by its board of directors in October 2024.

The bonds may be increased depending on demand.

The proceeds from the fundraising activity will be used to

COA flags LTO’s delayed full use of new IT system for transport

THE Commission on Audit (COA) said the Land Transportation Office (LTO) incurred P438.7 million ($7.6 million) in computer information technology (IT) fees.

The COA said a fully functional and utilized Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) across all agency offices should have covered these needs.

“The Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) was still not being fully utilized nationwide and was still in parallel use with the old IT system as at Dec. 31, 2024 despite the acceptance of the seven core applications, due to the existing issues and problems in the functions/pro-

cesses of the system,” the COA said in a report.

The audit body said this resulted in the non-maximization of the benefits expected from the project and imposed an additional financial burden on the public, who had to pay computer IT fees charged by Stradcom Corp. from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2024 amounting to P438,785,773.61.

These fees, the COA said, could have been avoided if the LTMS had been fully operational and utilized by LTO offices nationwide.

It recommended that the LTO collaborate closely with Dermalog Identification System GMBH to resolve ongoing issues with the LTMS.

finance or refinance projects under the bank’s Sustainable Funding Framework in line with the ASEAN Sustainability Bond Standards.

The BPI SINAG Bonds will have a term of 1.5 years. Investors can apply with a minimum investment of P500,000, with additional investments in P100,000 increments.

Offer period will run from May 20 to May 30, 2025.

The bonds are expected to be issued and listed on the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp. on June 10, 2025.

BPI Capital Corp. and Standard Chartered Bank are the joint lead arrangers and selling agents. They may update the offer terms, dates and conditions as needed with proper notice.

BPI raised $800 million from the issuance of 10- and 5- year Reg S senior unsecured fixed-rate notes overseas last month.

The notes were issued under BPI’s $3-billion medium term note program, and the net proceeds will be used for refinancing and general corporate purposes Jenniffer B. Austria

non-recurring gains from the sale of foreclosed assets, the growth in the Bank’s core income continued to drive the Bank’s earning momentum,” said PNB president Florido Casuela in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

“We expect that the quality of the bank’s earnings will further improve since we have already put in place the necessary foundation for the Bank’s sustained stability and accelerated growth,” he said. The bank’s total assets stood at P1.28 trillion as of end-March 2025, or 2 percent higher than the end- 2024 level. Net loans and receivables rose to P655.9 billion, while deposit liabilities reached P988.3 billion.

Debt watcher Moody Ratings early this month upgraded PNB’s credit rating from Baa3 to Baa2, now one notch above investment grade. The outlook was also changed to stable, reflecting the bank’s stronger profitability, capital and liquidity.

IN BRIEF

QUAKE

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

EU, PH bare funding facilities to promote circular economy

THE European Union (EU) and the Philippines launched two grant facilities to boost local action for the circular economy.

Funded under the EU Green Economy Partnership with the Philippines (GEPP) – Green LGUs project, the Community Grants and the Circular Economy Education and Behavioural Change Grants will support initiatives in 10 partner local government units to reduce waste, promote inclusion, and raise environmental education.

The grants aim to scale inclusive, grassroots initiatives focused on circular economy solutions, especially those led by local actors and targeting the informal sector, gender and social inclusion.

The grants are part of the EU’s broader partnership with the Philippine government to build greener, more resilient communities.

Spearheaded by the Department of

Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Green LGUs project is co-implemented with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

The launch was attended by over 230 on-site and online participants, including local officials, civil society, and development partners.

“More than just financial support, the grants recognize the significant role of the people and partnerships and reflect a shared commitment to collaboration, capacity-building, and long-term sustainability,” said DILG

Assistant Secretary for International Relations Lilian De Leon,

“By leveraging the expertise and networks of civil society, and academic institutions, LGUs can lead circular economy implementation, and improve both environment and local economic resilience,” she added. UNDP Philippines News

Clark food hub project a ‘game-changer’

AN AMBITIOUS

food hub in the Clark Freport and Special Economic Zone

is a potential “gamechanger” that will help the Philippines secure food security and increase farm output in th countryside.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. and Transportation

Secretary Vince Dizon last week vowed to speed up the development of the food hub on a land owned by Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC).

The project seeks to centralize the storage, processing and distribution of agricultural commodities, while providing efficient access to farmers, traders and other buyers. The food hub could be operational within 18 months from the start of construction.

IN BRIEF

CHED’s role cited in climate change

THE Climate Change Commission (CCC) cited the important role of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in shaping a more climate-conscious and action-driven student population during the commemoration of International Mother Earth Day last week.

“Many students and young people care deeply about the planet, yet they often lack a full understanding of climate change, its root causes, long-term impacts and the urgency of action,” said Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, CCC vice chairperson and executive director. Data show that CHED enrollment rose from 4.1 million in 2022 to 5.1 million in 2024. For 2020-2021, the most pursued programs were Business Administration and related courses, followed by Education Science and Teacher Training, and Engineering and Technology. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), meanwhile, reported in 2023 that 90 percent of Filipinos, or over 94 million individuals, are considered literate based on the latest Census of Population. Borje said while basic literacy and school enrollment remain high, the real challenge lies in fostering a deeper understanding of climate issues. CCC News QC bans single-use plastics in city hall

THE Quezon City government imposed a ban on disposables and single-use plastic (SUPs) bags,

By Marita Moaje

DEPARTMENT of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga reiterated her call for a just transition to a low-carbon economy.

She said the shift must protect workers and communities while creating green jobs and a sustainable future.

“As we celebrate Earth Day, we must be reminded that the journey to clean energy must be grounded on collective action. We must ensure that in this quest for resilient, inclusive, and sustainable development, there must be no one and no ecosystem left behind,” Loyzaga said last week.

She issued the reminder during

Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22 as a global event dedicated to raising awareness about environmental protection and sustainability.

Loyzaga also called on all Filipinos to take an active role in shaping a cleaner and greener future.

Loyzaga stressed in a statement that environmental protection and climate action begin with collective responsibility.

“Earth Day offers a moment to reflect on the responsibilities we share—as Filipinos, and as stewards of a fragile planet,” she said.

“This year’s theme, ‘Our Planet, Our Power,’ speaks to a profound truth: that we hold the power to shape a future anchored on clean, renewable energy,” she added.

Loyzaga noted that the Philippines is home to vast natural wealth, with over 30 million hectares of land, 220 million hectares of vibrant marine waters, and more than 56,000 species on land and sea.

However, she said Filipinos have a duty to protect and use these natural resources wisely, especially as the country transitions to an inherent complex use of renewable energy.

“It is linked to the sustainable use of our natural resources: our waters for hydropower, heat from our earth for geothermal energy, the wind and sun for other sources of alternative clean energy, but the use of these energy resources is not without cost,” Loyzaga said. PNA

“Access to the entire area remains challenging,” he noted. “But a 12-hectare section could be sufficient for initial development, considering our current budget and timelines.” He added that while the proposed area is smaller than Thailand’s successful 50-hectare agricultural distribution center, it is important to lay the foundation for future administrations to expand on. Dizon, meanwhile, disclosed that the food hub concept was originally proposed by Semmaris of France, operator of the busy Rungis International Market near Paris. However, the initial plan stalled when Semmaris’s local partner withdrew due to high relocation costs associated with the original site, which could have ultimately burdened consumers.

With renewed government backing, both Tiu Laurel and Sec. Dizon hope the project can finally move from blueprint to reality―marking a major step toward modernizing the country’s food value chain.

Besides Clark, the DA is also looking at other sites across the country to set up similar food hubs to bolster farm output, stabilize food supply and prices, increase farmers income, and generate jobs and investments. DA News

‘Clean energy must protect communities’ Asia’s megacities facing climate and population challenges

By Vibhu Mishra

without urgent and inclusive action, these stresses could widen inequality, overstretch public services and deepen social and environmental tensions.

In response, Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, ESCAP’s executive secretary, is calling for a new urban model that prioritizes equity and resilience.

“The road to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development runs through cities and across the entirety of human settlements,” she wrote in a foreword to the report, stressing the need for decisive and inclusive action. The climate crisis is pushing many of Asia’s cities to their limits.

In 2024, record temperatures swept through South and Southeast Asia— from Dhaka and Delhi to Phnom Penh and Manila—straining infrastructure and healthcare systems. UN News

These urban giants, long seen as symbols

Joining the launch of the funding programs are Department of Environment and Natural Resource director Al Orolfo (sixth from left),

Department of the Interior and Local Government Assistant Secretary for International Relations Lilian De Leon (seventh from the left), EU Delegation to the Philippines Program Manager Ileana Miritescu (center) and United Nations Development Program project manager Moeko Saito-Jensen (seventh from the right), with representatives from the first batch of local government unit partners.

Home to nearly 30 million people, Shanghai is one of the world’s largest cities. Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga

Dizon, who also chairs CIAC, cited Clark’s strategic location―close to both the Subic Seaport and the SubicClark Expressway, as well as its

proximity to the Clark International Airport (CRK).

Tiu Laurel in a recent site inspection with CIAC officials confirmed that about 47 hectares have been

Clark National Food Hub.

TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

‘Sinners’

retains box office crown for second week

RYAN Coogler’s 1930s vampire thriller

Sinners sunk its teeth into another huge weekend at the North American box office, taking in $45 million, industry estimates showed Sunday.

Michael B. Jordan (Black Panther, Creed) stars as twins in Coogler’s supernatural horror flick set in Mississippi, which has a near-perfect 98 percent fresh rating on movie review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes Hailee Steinfeld and Delroy Lindo also star in the music-driven Warner Bros. film, which has a cumulative domestic take of $122.5 million.

In second place was the 20th anniversary re-release of Disney’s Star Wars: Episode III--Revenge of the Sith, with a whopping $25.2 million, according to data from Exhibitor Relations.

The result, one of the best ever for a rerelease, “clearly demonstrates the audience and fan passion for this beloved franchise,” said Comscore senior media analyst Paul Dergarabedian Ben Affleck’s The Accountant 2 debuted in third place at $24.5 million. The Amazon MGM Studios film stars Affleck as a neurodivergent math genius with ties to the criminal underworld and Jon Bernthal as his hitman brother. Video game adaptation A Minecraft Movie from Warner Bros., starring Jack Black and Jason Momoa, finished in fourth place with $22.7 million.

It has so far grossed $380 million in North America—the top release so far this year—and another $436 million internationally, putting it on track to rake in a billion dollars. In fifth place was new Sony horror film Until Dawn at $8 million. Rounding out the top 10 were The King of Kings with $4 million, The Amateur with $3.8 million, Warfare with $2.7 million, The Legend of Ochi with $1.4 million, and Pink Floyd: Live at Pompeii with $1.3 million. AFP

Shticks

Kiko Estrada follows in grandfather’s footsteps in ‘Totoy Bato’ adaptation

FOLLOWING his success in Lumuhod Ka sa Lupa on TV5, Kiko Estrada is diving into a new challenge, headlining the highly anticipated remake of the classic action film Totoy Bato , also on TV5.

The 32-year-old Kiko shares his excitement for the project, which honors his grandfather’s legacy while allowing him to step into the shoes of a beloved character.

“It’s my next project after Lumuhod Ka sa Lupa, and I’ve started preparations for the character I’ll play, especially on the physical aspect, like hitting the gym to get fit,” he said.

The actor shared that he has a special connection to the project, revealing that Totoy Bato is one of his grandfather, the late Paquito Diaz’s, most notable movies from 1977. It was top-billed by the late Fernando Poe Jr.

Kiko explained that his grandfather means everything to him, as he raised him and was the main reason he entered acting. Thus, he promised to give his best for the role.

Apart from the original film, Totoy Bato was first made into a television series by GMA-7, starring Robin Padilla in the title role in 2009. In this latest 2025 remake, Kiko will be joined by a talented cast, including Mark Anthony Fernandez, Eula Valdes, Diego Loyzaga, Bea Binene, Cindy

our goal that its quality is like that of a movie.”

It would be interesting if his father, Gary Estrada, were also part of the project.

“Actually, it’s my wish. I thought it would materialize. I wanted him. But I guess he wasn’t

impact, our car was divided into two. I was in front, and I had a seatbelt injury. I couldn’t breathe then,” he stated.

Unfortunately, David lost his friend in the accident.

“Yes, it’s painful to remember. He even got my mobile phone so

Miranda, Nonie Buencamino, Art Acuña, Mon Confiado, Andrew Muhlach, Lester Llansang, Benz Sangalang, Billy Villeta, Ivan Padilla, Gold Aceron, and CJ Caparas

Additionally, Jackielou Blanco, Katya Santos, Kean Cipriano, and his uncle Joko Diaz will have special appearances. The project will be directed by Albert Langitan and produced by MavenPro and Sari-Sari Network, Inc., in collaboration with Studio Viva.

Kiko revealed that he is already practicing boxing and that he had long wanted to star in the remake of Totoy Bato

“Actually, what we did with Lumuhod Ka sa Lupa was trial and error. But with Totoy Bato, it’s going to be all the good ones. It’s

given permission. I don’t know about his contractual obligations,” he revealed.

“I’m certain that if he could do it, then he will. But it’s sad. We have contract rules to follow, and I understand being an actor myself. Perhaps it’s not meant to happen at this point. Anyway, there’s still next time, right?” Kiko ended.

* * * In a recent television interview, David Licauco revealed that a vehicular accident he was involved in back in 2013 changed his perspective on life, family, and friendship.

“Yes, I was with a friend, and we were on our way home from Tagaytay. I wasn’t the one driving the car. Suddenly, we hit a truck on the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), and because of the strong

I could call my mom. But he got into a coma and eventually passed away.”

The Pambansang Ginoo survived the accident because he was wearing a seatbelt, as advised by a parking attendant.

“It’s true that when you’re young, you hate to wear a seatbelt when in the car because it’s a hassle, right? But this parking boy reminded me to wear it, and it stuck with me. Thank goodness I listened to him!”

Because of the incident, David’s perspective on life has shifted.

“I learned to value my family and friends even more because you’ll never know, right? I think it’s always nice to let your friends and family know that you love them and you care for them,” he said.

but

to step

from continuing the role due to personal commitments. Earlier this year,

known for producing Heneral Luna and Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral , announced Rosales as the new actor for the role of the first president of the Commonwealth of the Philippines. Although no longer part of the project, Trinidad expressed his full support for the film, congratulating Rosales and Benjamin Alves, who previously portrayed the younger Quezon in Heneral Luna and Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral Filming for Quezon is still underway, with a planned theatrical release both locally and internationally later this year.

TJ Trinidad (right) shares a heartfelt moment with Jericho Rosales on the set of ‘Quezon,’ showing support for the actor’s new portrayal of Manuel L. Quezon

Michael B. Jordan’s ‘Sinners’ sinks its teeth into a $45-million weekend, staying atop the box office

From left: Daphne Chui, TJ Trinidad, Jerrold Tarog, Romnick

scene of Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral ,

had

away

TBA Studios,

Joseph Peter Gonzales

From left: Bea Binene, Kiko Estrada, and Diego Loyzaga at the script reading session for the upcoming TV5 adaptation of ‘Totoy Bato’

Kiko Estrada gears up to portray the titular role in TV5’s 2025 remake of the classic action film ‘Totoy Bato’

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Celebrities rally support for provincial initiatives

Mark Herras joins the Ang Probinsyano Party-list campaign rally in Siquijor to highlight APPL’s projects for provincial communities

By Nickie Wang

ACTORS Jason Abalos, JC De Vera, and Mark Herras have joined campaign activities for the Ang Probinsyano Party-list (APPL) as volunteers ahead of the May 12 elections.

The three celebrities, all self-identified probinsyanos took part in community events in Negros Oriental, Albay, Zambales, and Siquijor to support APPL and its representative, Congressman Alfred “Apid” Delos Santos Abalos led activities in the towns of Basay, Bayawan, and Zamboanguita in Negros Oriental, where he cited APPL’s programs in medical missions, scholarships, and livelihood training.

“Ang APPL ay may kongkretong aksyon, may tunay na malasakit, at may tunay na epekto sa buhay ng mga tao sa probinsya,” Abalos said during a gathering with residents.

In Albay, De Vera joined a motorcade and campaign rally with Team Rosaloria, later traveling to San Antonio, Zambales, to support local candidates Team

Antipolo. De Vera praised APPL’s track record, saying its initiatives go beyond words. “Hindi sila puro salita, makikita natin yung malasakit sa track record ng Ang Probinsyano,” he told supporters. Herras performed at a rally in Siquijor for Governor Jake Villa and Rep. Zaldy Villa, expressing support for APPL’s projects in the provinces. “Hindi lang puro salita, may gawa at resulta,” he said.

Delos Santos joined the celebrities in the campaign events, thanking them for lending their voice to the Party-list’s cause. “Sa tulong ng ating mga kaibigan mula sa industriya na naniniwala sa ating layunin, mas napapalawak natin ang abot ng malasakit,” he said. Ang Probinsyano Party-list continues its campaign, emphasizing initiatives designed to support and uplift provincial communities.

Shaping the future of Filipino homes

By Angelica Villanueva

TWENTY-FIVE years after entering the Philippine market, TCL Electronics is here to lead the industry with style and a global mission.

Marking its silver anniversary recently at Okada Manila, the global electronics brand showcased more than just its new line of gadgets and appliances, but it also revealed a vision for the future, one driven by smart technology, thoughtful design, and a meaningful connection with consumers.

“Our journey is about redefining lifestyles. We are not a follower, but a trailblazer,” Peter Chen, CEO of TCL Industries, said. From its humble beginnings since 1999 to becoming household staples, TCL has steadily built its presence in Filipino homes, transforming living rooms, kitchens, and laundry areas with a wide array of consumer electronics. Today, its televisions, air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines are staples—and the numbers continue to prove it.

Sales of refrigerators and washing machines have soared by triple digits, with TCL recording a 279 percent year-on-year increase in refrigerator sales and a 211 percent jump in washing machines.

Griffin Zhang, general manager of the Asia Pacific Business Group, noted that TCL’s TV and AC product lines now hold the top market share in sales volume.

“They’ve become trusted brands among consumers,” he said.

A centerpiece of the celebration was the unveiling of TCL’s 2025 product lineup—a suite of new releases that blend performance, design, and convenience. At the forefront is the new X11K QDMiniLED TV, built with up to 312 dimming zones and an AiPQ processor for AI-optimized clarity, motion, and color. The model aims to bring theater-quality visuals into the living room, supported by ONKYO’s sound system and Dolby Atmos. The brand is also rolling out the TCL FreshIN 3.0 Air Conditioners, the Super Drum Combo+

C682 Front Load Washer and Dryer, and the AAT Inverter+ C436BMSB refrigerator— each designed to make smart living more accessible for Filipino households.

“For us, innovation is to go beyond our limits and develop cutting-edge, sustainable technologies,” Chen said.

As a gratitude for 25 years of support, TCL is offering a limited-time promo on the C6KS QD-Mini LED 55” TV—now priced at PHP 29,995. It’s a smart upgrade for those looking to level up their viewing experience without the premium price tag.

“25 years in the industry represents a significant milestone. We remain committed to meeting the demand for immersive viewing with Mini LED technologies,” stated Joseph Cernitchez, TCL brand manager.

Looking beyond local shores, TCL also used the celebration to announce its partnership with the International Olympic Committee, which runs until 2032. The brand’s technologies will support Olympic operations, athletes, and audiences across the globe.

“Being a worldwide Olympic partner is more than just a badge of honor—it’s a declaration. It’s not just about gadgets—it’s about experiences,” shared Shae Yu, TCL Philippines deputy marketing director.

Olympic pole vaulter EJ Obiena, who holds the Asian record and is ranked fourth in the world, graced the event as a special guest. “It’s about chasing greatness, constant improvement, and perfection,” Obiena said. “Just as TCL constantly innovates to enhance our lives, we athletes train with that same mindset.”

The evening closed with a celebratory toast led by Cyd Montebon, TCL Philippines deputy director of sales, and Wesley Yang deputy director of retail.

“To all who have walked this incredible path with us, thank you,” said Montebon.

“TCL is a promise to innovate, connect, and redefine. And tonight, it’s clear that we’re just getting started,” Yang added.

VCM The Celebrity Source has strengthened its role in celebrity brand partnerships by helping TCL Electronics renew its alliance with actress Kathryn Bernardo. The contract renewal, held early this year at Studio Simula, extends a collaboration that has supported TCL’s growth in the Philippines.

VCM, founded by Elizabeth “Betchay” AlviarVidanes, has been instrumental in connecting TCL with Kathryn, ensuring a strong fit between the brand and one of the country’s most influential celebrities. Kathryn’s co-managers, Lulu Romero and Kali Vidanes, represented her at the event, with Kali now playing a bigger role in VCM’s leadership as the agency moves toward a new generation of management.

TCL Brand Manager Joseph Cernitchez credited the success of the partnership to Kathryn’s authenticity and strong connection with Filipino consumers, aligning with the company’s “Inspire Greatness” campaign.

Now entering its third year, the partnership will see Kathryn continue promoting TCL’s flagship products, including TVs, washing machines, air conditioners, and refrigerators.

With over 30 years of experience, VCM has built a reputation for creating effective brand-celebrity alliances, working with names such as Senator Robin Padilla, Miss World 2013 Megan Young, and actress Jasmine Curtis Smith

Its collaboration with TCL and Kathryn shows how strategic partnerships can boost brand presence and consumer trust. As TCL prepares for an active 2025, VCM remains a driving force behind the partnership’s continued success.

Actress Kathryn Bernardo (center) renews her partnership with TCL Electronics

Jason Abalos rallies support for Ang Probinsyano Party-list during a community event in Negros Oriental JC De Vera participates in campaign activities in Albay and Zambales to advocate for Ang Probinsyano

Olympian EJ Obiena (center) joins TCL Philippines and brand executives to celebrate TCL’s new global partnership with the International Olympic Committee

The hosts with Filipino athlete EJ Obiena (second from the right) and TCL Deputy Director of Marketing Shae Yu

WANG,

VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Max’s Group’s recipe for enduring success

By Nickie Wang

MAX’S Group Inc. (MGI), which began with the iconic Max’s Restaurant nearly 80 years ago, demonstrates how tradition and innovation can complement each other in today’s rapidly changing food industry.

Max’s success lies in its ability to balance heritage with modernity. As the dining landscape shifts toward convenience, MGI has evolved its delivery and takeout services to meet customer demands. However, unlike many businesses that rely on automation, MGI insists on keeping the human connection at the forefront.

As Chief Marketing Officer Jim Fuentebella puts it, “You’ll never see a robot serving in Max’s.” The brand firmly believes that dining isn’t just about food; it’s about the experience of sharing a meal with loved ones,

Outerwear built for busy days and bold plays

By Jasper Valdez

WHETHER you’re heading to the gym, commuting to work, or running weekend errands, Uniqlo wants you to dress for it all — with comfort and ease.

The Japanese clothing brand launched its new Sport Utility Wear collection on April 4 at the MET Park Sports Center in Pasay City, bringing together media, sports enthusiasts, and celebrity guests for a morning of movement and play.

Actor Enchong Dee and volleyball

player Kim Kianna Dy were also introduced as the faces of the new line.

“Whatever sport or game you play, you can rely on Uniqlo’s Sport Utility Wear to give you confidence and comfort,” said Uniqlo Philippines COO Geraldine Sia. “But it’s not just for athletes — it’s also perfect for people on the go like me.”

Designed with performance fabrics such as Dry-EX, Ultra Stretch, and AIRism, the collection highlights pieces that support an active lifestyle without sacrificing style.

Many items also offer UV protection, making them ideal for outdoor activities or long days under the sun.

At the launch, guests were invited to experience the collection in action with a pickleball session — a fitting introduction to clothes made for movement.

For Dee, the collection fits seamlessly into his daily routine.

“I always wear jogger pants and basic tees—they’re part of my regular rotation,” he said, noting how the Ultra Stretch Active Shorts and Sports EX shirt remind him of tennis icon Roger Federer’s practical-yetpolished style.

“It’s not just for when you’re working out. You can wear this to meet friends or grab coffee. That’s what I like about it.”

Dy also shared how she finds the line useful beyond the court.

“The fabric dries quickly and doesn’t feel sticky when you’re active,” she said. “But I’d still wear it even when I’m just out for errands or a casual day.”

Sia said the goal of the Sport Utility Wear line is to offer versatile options for different lifestyles.

“It’s

for

and no machine can replicate that personal touch. This focus on connection is also evident in the company’s diverse offerings. Each of MGI’s brands, like Yellow Cab Pizza Co. and Krispy Kreme, brings something new to the table, while Max’s Restaurant remains committed to its roots. Its signature fried chicken, with its timeless taste, symbolizes consistency in a world full of ever-changing culinary trends. But MGI embraces innovation, too.

Brands like Yellow Cab experiment with bold flavors like their Truffle Series, Jamba Juice caters to health-

conscious consumers with options like Acai Blends, and Krispy Kreme adds playful twists with treats like Cloud Bomboms. As Dave Fuentebella, Director of MGI, points out, the key to success lies in maintaining “spotproduct quality and service excellence.” This delicate balancing act between honoring the past and embracing the future is evident in one of MGI’s most recent projects: Ruby’s Bar. This modern lounge, a tribute to the company’s pioneer, was created by the third generation and is managed by the fourth, making it a family affair that honors the brand’s legacy while pushing creative boundaries. The recognition of Ruby’s Bar as one of the top bars in the country only underscores how well MGI is navigating the intersection of heritage and innovation.

Ultimately, the story of Max’s Group is not simply one of business success; it’s a story of thoughtful evolution. By holding firm to its values of warmth, service, and meaningful connections, MGI has built a lasting legacy that will continue to thrive through its commitment to both tradition and progress. As the largest restaurant operator in the casual dining segment, with over 600 branches across the Philippines and abroad, Max’s Group has shown that while the times may change, the essence of what makes them great remains unchanged.

Max’s Group showcases its evolving culinary legacy through its iconic fried chicken, Yardstick Coffee collaborations, and playful Krispy Kreme treats

What’s remarkable about MGI is its ability to stay relevant in the face of changing consumer habits while preserving the core values that made it a cornerstone of Filipino culture.

The original Max’s Restaurant stands as a symbol of tradition and the enduring spirit of Filipino hospitality since 1945