By Ram Superable
SENATORS and an official of the Catho-
lic Bishops Conference of the Philippines on Tuesday welcomed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s openness to reconciling with
the Dutertes, saying it showed his intention to rise above political bickering for the sake of national unity.
Senator Ronald dela Rosa, however, said Mr. Marcos must show “extreme
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said the government will shift its anti-drug strategy to refocus attention on both high-level syndicates and grassroots offenders amid reports that illegal drug activity resurfaced in some communities.
In a podcast interview on Monday,
President Marcos acknowledged that the result of the 2025 midterm elections where only 6 administration-backed senatorial candidates won is a reflection that the public was unhappy with certain government services in the first half of his term.
“As part of the lesson of these elections, let’s go back to the grassroots
level because people are concerned that drug addicts and drug pushers have returned to their communities. Let us focus on that,” the President said.
“Let’s focus again on small-time (drug personalities),” he added. While emphasizing that large-scale operations have led to the seizure of “tons” of shabu and other illegal drugs in recent years, President Marcos ad-
mitted dismantling syndicates remains the most difficult task due to the influence and money involved.
“The syndicate includes the police. It includes the local government. There’s a lot of money involved,” he said. “They can buy everyone — judge, prosecutor.” He, however, said his administration will maintain its departure from the
By Charles Dantes and Rex Espiritu
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is studying how it could expand the government’s affordable rice program to beyond vulnerable sectors, with the goal of benefiting up to 60 million Filipinos, according to Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa. De Mesa confirmed that President Marcos has already ordered the expansion of the initiative so more Filipinos
Sandiganbayan orders release of sequestered assets to Romualdez kin
By
Maricel V. Cruz
THE Sandiganbayan has ordered the return of at least P3.5 billion worth of Philippine International Commercial Bank (PCIBank, now Banco de Oro) shares to the late Benjamin Romualdez, brother of former First Lady Imelda Marcos. In a 12-page ruling, the anti-graft court said the shares, which it earlier ordered deposited in escrow at the Land Bank of the Philippines, should immediately be returned to the estate of the late Leyte governor and former ambassador to Washington. The ruling, dated May 16, involves Civil Case 0035 filed by the Presidential Commission on Good Government
his words with the christening of two new missile-carrying warships during the Philippine Navy’s 127th anniversary yesterday.
“We stand firm. We will never tolerate any act of disrespect against our sovereignty,” the President declared
THE Supreme Court has partially lifted the temporary restraining order (TRO) on the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP), allowing only the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority to implement it, SC spokesperson Camille Ting said Tuesday.
The TRO, originally issued in August 2022, covered both the MMDA resolution and local government ordinances.
The court’s recent decision lifts the TRO solely for the MMDA, while it remains in effect for local ordinances. The policy will be enforced only on major thoroughfares such as EDSA and C5, which are covered by the MMDA resolution, Ting added. Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra confirmed the development but said the official resolution has yet to be received. Kilusan sa Pagbabago ng Industriya ng Transportasyon and other groups sought to declare unconstitutional ordinances in Metro Manila implementing the NCAP. Ting said the SC En Banc granted
THE Commission on Elections on Tuesday fumed over the failure of candidates to remove their campaign materials within five days following the May 12 local and national elections.
Garcia warned the negligent candidates that they could be held criminally liable for not complying with the law, adding that the Comelec’s Task Force Baklas, which takes down illegal campaign materials, continues to monitor those who violated election rules.
“The TF Baklas should report to us (candidates) who didn’t remove their campaign materials. Even if they can’t be disqualified, we can file a criminal case against them. That’s a criminal case,” Garcia stressed
The Comelec vowed to take note of
the erring candidates and use their violations against them in future elections.
“Those that committed violations can still be held accountable when they file their certificates of candidacy again in the future elections,” Garcia warned.
Under Comelec Resolution No. 11086, the candidates are mandated to remove or cause to remove all their election propaganda within five days after the elections.
Earlier, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority said from May 13 to 14, it collected 11 tons of election-
related waste, including tarpaulins and posters removed from walls, posts, trees, and power lines.
MMDA said reusable materials will be donated to groups like EcoWaste Coalition, Tahanang Walang Hagdan, and prison camps, where they will be repurposed into items such as seat covers, tents, and bags.
EcoWaste Coalition has long raised concerns over the environmental impact of plastic campaign materials and has appealed to candidates to reduce their use of PVC and avoid placing posters on trees.
By Rachelle Tonelada
sincerity” if he truly intends to reconcile with the Duterte family.
“Because of the depth of the wounds they inflicted on us, I think what’s really needed is ‘extreme sincerity.’ Not just something superficial, because as I’ve said, we’ve already had experience with him,” Dela Rosa said in a phone patch interview.
The senator renewed his claim that Mr. Marcos had assured him the government would not cooperate with the International Criminal Court in its bid to arrest former President Rodrigo Duterte.
He said Duterte arrest on March 11 upon his arrival from Hong Kong was a violation of that assurance.
“No one really wants to be in conflict forever. We all want peace, to live quietly and peacefully, and to focus on the good of our country,” Dela Rosa said.
Senator Robin Padilla, for his part, underscored the importance of good faith in any peace talks.
“In every peace negotiation, exploratory talks are always the beginning,and the biggest question from the aggrieved party starts with: ‘What is the goodwill offer?’” he said.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada welcomed the gesture, saying it was a sign that Mr. Marcos wants to move beyond political conflict.
“By expressing his desire to reconcile with the Dutertes, the President demonstrates his intent to rise above political bickering and focus on national healing and progress,” he said.
Estrada maintained his opposition to any impeachment effort against Vice President Sara Duterte, warning that it would only deepen political divisions.
“But as duly elected members of the Senate, we are mandated by the Constitution to act on any impeachment complaint. The Filipino people deserve nothing less than a Senate that upholds integrity, objectivity, and respect for due process,” he said.
the MMDA’s urgent motion to lift the TRO against NCAP last week.
“If you remember, the TRO the court issued last August 2022, the TRO covers the MMDA resolution and the local city ordinances. So the TRO here is only lifted with respect to the MMDA but it still remains with respect to the LGU ordinances,” she said.
“It can only be implemented by the MMDA in major thoroughfares, especially C5 and EDSA,” she added.
The MMDA on Tuesday welcomed the lifting of the temporary restraining order.
“With the announced scheduled massive rehabilitation of EDSA, which is set to commence on June 13, the MMDA expects heavier traffic,” the agency stated.
The reinstatement of NCAP is expected to strengthen the agency’s traffic management along EDSA and other major thoroughfares, utilizing closed-circuit television cameras, digital cameras, and other technology to capture videos and images of traffic violators, record traffic violations, and issue citations. Pot Chavez and Joel E. Zurbano
THE International Criminal Court yesterday announced that Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang has taken over as the lead prosecutor in the case against former President Rodrigo Duterte.
He replaces Karim Khan, who has voluntarily stepped aside temporarily as a United Nations investigation into his alleged sexual misconduct nears its conclusion.
The Office of the Prosecutor of the ICC confirmed that while Khan is on a leave of absence, Niang, together with Deputy Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan, will assume “leadership, management and administration of the Office.”
“The Deputy Prosecutors underline the importance of ensuring continuity of
the Office’s activities across all areas of work, and particularly in its mission to investigate and prosecute the most serious crimes with independence and impartiality,” the Office of the Prosecutor said.
“The Office reaffirms its commitment to the continued effective implementation of its mandate to deliver justice for victims of Rome Statute crimes, across all situations and cases globally,” it added.
The ICC also confirmed that Niang will now lead the case involving Duterte, who is being investigated for alleged crimes against humanity committed during his administration’s war on drugs.
In response to a Manila Standard query, the OTP said it is committed to the continued effective implementation of its mandate to deliver justice for victims of Rome Statute crimes, across all
situations and cases globally.
The Office underlines the importance of ensuring continuity of its activities across all areas of work, and particularly in its mission to investigate and prosecute the most serious crimes with independence and impartiality, it added.
According to the ICC website, Niang is the current Deputy Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, elected in December 2021 and sworn in by March 2022.
A seasoned legal professional from Senegal, he has held senior positions in his country’s judiciary and brings significant international experience, having worked with the United Nations, including the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
By Joel Zurbano
THE National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) conducted a twoday surprise inspection of five police districts in Metro Manila, discovering in the process multiple issues including unmanned police assistance desks, abandoned posts, and officers playing online games while on duty.
As a result, several police commanders are now under investigation for failing to diligently supervise their respective personnel who were found to have committed the infractions.
The inspection, called “Back-toBack Surprise Red Teaming Operations,” was organized by NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin to check on the presence of duty personnel, operational readiness, and adherence to deployment directives, especially in high-density in areas notably those frequented by foreigners.
“While many police assistance desks (PADs), outposts, and visibility patrols were compliant and properly staffed, we observed a concerning pattern of lapses and violations during the twoday operation,” Aberin said.
He cited instances of unmanned PADs and abandoned posts, as well as violations such as single postings which are clear breaches of deployment protocols.
Additionally, some officers were found using their mobile phones during duty hours, including playing games while there was a noticeable lack of police presence in busy public areas. Aberin warned that personnel found neglecting their duties will face immediate removal from their posts following due process. Those absent from their posts or misusing their phones while on duty will also undergo investigation.
violent tactics associated with the previous administration’s drug war.
“What I avoid is us just having a suspicion or a report, and arresting them and then killing them based on that,” he said. “That’s where we distanced ourselves.”
Asked whether he preferred to be feared or respected, Mr. Marcos replied: “I want to be respected, but maybe fear is better.”
On Tuesday, the Philippine National Police said it seized P43.8 billion worth
of illegal drugs under the bloodless anti-drug campaign of President Marcos from July 2022 to May 17, 2025.
In a press briefing at Camp Crame, PNP information chief Col. Randulf Tuaño said the P43.8 billion is higher compared to the P14.3 billion illegal drug haul recorded from July 2016 to May 17, 2019, under the controversial war on drugs of former president Rodrigo Duterte.
“Our figure will still increase. We will not only concentrate on those over one kilo,” Tuaño said.
Tuaño said the PNP will also adhere to the President’s directive to also go after small-time drug offenders.
majority of the poor are registered, particularly in Zamboanga, the Bangsamoro areas, and other parts of Mindanao,” the DA official added.
He said President Marcos has directed Brig. Gen. Jason Capoy, officer-incharge of the PNP Drug Enforcement Group, to submit recommendations on how to implement the President’s directive.
“We will continue to pursue big drug lords and will add to this the arrest of our small drug offenders, led by our new OIC, Gen. Capoy,” Tuaño said.
During his third State of the Nation Address in July last year, President Marcos pledged to continue the bloodless anti-narcotics drive, emphasizing that extermination is not a part of his administration’s campaign.
rice program is only benefiting indigent households, who are considered the country’s “most vulnerable.”
However, de Mesa said the envisioned expansion of the program will bring subsidized rice to lower and lower-middle income households as well.
While the initiative is still under study, the DA is weighing critical factors including supply, logistics, and regional poverty distribution.
“That is why the Secretary mentioned the next phase is Mindanao, where the
At the same time, the DA is taking steps to stabilize rice prices at the farm gate level to ensure that farmers also benefit.
De Mesa confirmed that the government is looking into implementing a suggested floor price for palay (unmilled rice), similar to a suggested retail price but at the farm level.
This follows recent findings that in at least 32 provinces, palay buying prices by private traders were significantly low.
“If the NFA intervenes and buys at a good price, the trader will follow suit.
That’s the strategy Secretary Kiko (Tiu Laurel) mentioned earlier,” de Mesa said. Currently, the National Food Authority (NFA) buys dry and clean palay at P23 to P24 per kilo, and fresh palay at P17 to P19.
However, the DA is exploring whether a suggested floor price could be formally enforced under existing laws, including the Price Act and the AntiAgricultural Economic Sabotage Law.
Ensuring profitable returns for farmers is key to sustaining local production, de Mesa stressed.
“If farmers are confident their harvests will be bought at reasonable prices, they will be more inclined to plant again,” he said.
(PCGG), which sequestered the assets in 1986. The shares were under the name of Trans Middle East Phils. Equities Inc. (TMEPEI), a company owned by Romualdez.
In 2022, however, the Supreme Court (SC) ruled that the shares were wrongfully sequestered and should be returned to Romualdez. Instead of releasing the shares then, the Sandiganbayan ordered them deposited in escrow “for the persons, natural or juridical, who shall eventually be adjudged lawfully entitled thereto” at Land Bank.
Civil Case 0035 alleged that Romualdez forcefully acquired 6,299,177 PCIBank shares by leveraging his ties to his sister Imelda and his brother-in-law, then-President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., listing his firm TMEPEI and Edilberto Narciso, Jr. as “dummy buyers.”
In July 2022, the SC ruled that the Sandiganbayan committed grave abuse of discretion in its 2003 decision, which declared the sequestration order null and void but still directed that the assets be deposited in escrow. The High Court’s decision became final and executory on October 4, 2023.
before top military officials and diplomats at the Naval Operating Base in Subic Bay, Zambales.
Amid growing tensions in the IndoPacific region, the chief executive reaffirmed the country’s commitment to protecting its maritime zones and exercising its internationally-recognized sovereign rights.
“We will not surrender anything, we will not abandon anyone,” he said.
“We will continue to safeguard our maritime zones and exercise our maritime entitlements, in accordance with international law,” Mr. Marcos added.
The Philippines and China have been locked in an increasingly tense stand-
off in the West Philippine Sea, with Manila accusing Beijing of aggressive and unlawful actions against Filipino vessels and fishers in the country’s exclusive economic zone.
During the event, Mr. Marcos, also the commander-in-chief of the military, led the commissioning rites of BRP Miguel Malvar and BRP Albert Majini.
The BRP Miguel Malvar, named after the last Filipino general to surrender during the Philippine-American War, arrived in the country from South Korea on April 4, after departing the HD Hyundai Heavy Industries shipyard in Ulsan on March 27.
The 118-meter vessel is equipped for anti-ship, anti-submarine, antiaircraft, and electronic warfare operations, and features advanced sensors and weapon systems.
She also inherited the name of a rickety decommissioned World War 2 ship, the PS19, that was slated to be targeted by a missile during the last Balikatan war games but sank while being towed to the exercise site.
The BRP Albert Majini—the eighth in the Acero-class FAIC-M series—is the first missile-capable patrol craft assembled locally. It was named in honor of Ensign Albert Majini, a Medal of Valor recipient for his heroism during anti-piracy operations in Basilan in 1980.
The vessel is designed for rapid interdiction and coastal missions under the Navy’s Littoral Combat Force.
Meanwhile, Mr. Marcos hailed the PN for its enduring legacy, bravery, and growing role in regional security amid rising maritime tensions.
He underscored the Navy’s critical role in defending the country’s sover-
eignty and supporting democracy.
The commander-in-chief also highlighted the service’s recent participation in the peaceful conduct of the 2025 national elections and its continuing contributions to humanitarian missions and disaster response.
“Despite rough seas and dangers, you serve not simply out of duty, but because that is innately who you are—you are guardians of our people,” the President said.
As this developed, the Philippine Coast Guard reported that two Chinese research vessels were detected operating within the Philippines’ EEZ. During a press briefing yesterday, Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, identified the ships as Xiang Yang Hong 302 and Tan Suo Er Hao.
RESIDENT Ferdinand
PMarcos Jr. on Monday announced plans to increase the number of e-gates in Philippine airports to reduce long queues and improve service, especially for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who often face multiple checkpoints before boarding.
In recent years, the Bureau of Immigration installed e-gates as a response to the limited number of immigration officers. These automated gates allow returning passengers to scan their own passports, streamlining the arrival process.
“We’re going to increase the number of e-gates. It’s fast,” President Marcos said in the first episode of his podcast. “It may seem like a small thing, but people really feel the difference. That’s what they’re asking for, so let’s give it to them.”
The President also called for expedited lanes for OFWs, noting the disparity in how foreign travelers and OFWs are processed at airports.
“It’s really unfair to our OFWs at the airport. Foreigners get through quickly without any issues. But our OFWs are asked for so many requirements—QR codes, IDs, various clearances—before they can even exit,” he said.
“What should happen is this: ‘Oh, you’re an OFW? Okay, go ahead, go ahead, stamp—done.’ That’s how it should be. We’ll get there gradually,” he added.
Mr. Marcos also highlighted the recent launch of the e-Gov app, designed to minimize the need for Filipinos to physically visit various government agencies for paperwork.
“That’s why the internet is a huge help,” he said. “My dream is for all government services to be done online—from making payments to the government, to receiving payments from the government, to applying for anything—so people won’t have to travel far and go through so much trouble.”
By Pot Chavez
THE service of the arrest warrant on former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque may be delayed due to his asylum application in the Netherlands, according to a Department of Justice (DOJ) official.
DOJ Chief State Counsel and Refugees and Stateless Persons Protection Unit Head Dennis Arvin Chan told reporters that the refugee application must be completed first. He noted that it will take precedence over all other proceedings.
“It can be processed already. As to how it will be implemented, that is up to the Netherlands authorities on how they will treat it,” Chan explained. He added that the pending asylum application must be resolved with finality before the arrest warrant can be served.
Meanwhile, Justice Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Mico Clavano said they are already exploring options and preparing the necessary documentation.
By Darwin Amojelar
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) confirmed Monday that the long-delayed reconstruction of EDSA will finally commence by mid-June.
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said the extensive overhaul will last approximately a year and a half, acknowledging it will significantly worsen traffic on Metro Manila’s main artery during the construction period.
To help ease the anticipated gridlock, Dizon said the DOTr is in “advanced talks” with San Miguel Corp., operator of the Skyway, to suspend toll collection in select areas of the elevated expressway while the project is
underway.
“The easiest alternative route is the Skyway,” Dizon said. “If this project takes a year and a half, maybe two years, we’re planning to make a segment of the Skyway toll-free, so people can avoid EDSA by using the elevated road instead.”
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the lead agency for the EDSA rebuild, said it has coordinated with the DOTr and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to implement a traffic management plan, which will include alternative routes.
“In a few days, we’ll have the traffic protocols ready, likely within June,”
DPWH Secretary Manny Bonoan said in a TeleRadyo Serbisyo interview.
“What’s important is to clearly inform the motoring public about what to expect and how the rerouting schemes will work.”
Despite the inconvenience the project may cause, Dizon emphasized the urgency of rehabilitating EDSA.
“The President’s vision is to fix EDSA once and for all,” he said. “The last time a major reconstruction was done was 45 to 50 years ago. At Balintawak station, parts of the concrete on the busway are already peeling off, posing a danger to buses. Tires are getting damaged because the roadwork on EDSA has been patchy and inconsistent.”
By Vito Barcelo
THE Commission on Elections
(Comelec) has vowed to resolve the issues surrounding the Duterte Youth and Bagong Henerasyon (BH) partylists before the start of the 20th Congress on June 30, 2025.
The proclamation of the two partylists was previously suspended due to pending disqualification petitions.
“Of course, the party-lists are understandably reluctant to respond to any questions about their election. Once again, we reiterate our commitment to resolving this issue before June 30,” Comelec chief George Erwin Garcia said.
Garcia also stated that if decisions regarding the disqualification petitions are not made by June 30, the
seats allocated for the Duterte Youth and BH party-lists will remain vacant.
“Four seats in our House of Representatives will be vacant. Instead of 63, only 59 members will be seated if June 30 comes and we still haven’t proclaimed those two,” he said.
The Duterte Youth party-list won three seats in the House of Representatives, while BH was set to secure one seat.
Garcia said he was unaware of the matter upon assuming the role of Comelec chairman in 2022. When asked about the delay in the issuance of a resolution regarding the petition filed in 2019, he responded:
“Those party-lists would prefer to have a final resolution on the issue,” he said.
Rice smuggling execs to face charges—Palace GOVERNMENT officials involved in rice smuggling will face charges, Malacañang said Tuesday, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s revelation that some officials are profiting from illegal rice importation. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said an investigation is underway. “Marami pong paiimbestigahan ang Pangulo... that’s what he promised,” she said. (“The President will have many investigated… that’s his promise.”) Castro added that once allegations are verified, cases will be filed. “The President won’t turn his back on this. If proven, charges must be filed,” she said. While she did not name any officials, Castro clarified that Marcos had only said the perpetrators were from government, not necessarily the executive branch. “If they were from the executive, they would likely have been removed already,” she noted.
JBC opens applications for Ombudsman post THE Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) has opened the application and recommendation process for the next Ombudsman, following the upcoming retirement of Hon. Samuel Martires on July 27, 2025. Interested applicants must refer to the official JBC website for complete guidelines and requirements, the council said Tuesday. The JBC reminded applicants that the date of submission via its Online Registration Application System (ORAS) will be considered the official filing date.
Qualifications will be evaluated as of the date of nomination, the JBC added.
Applicants must also meet the criteria outlined in the 2020 Revised JBC Rules, which detail qualifications and evaluative standards. Pot Chavez
Isko Moreno takes oath, calls for unity in Manila
MANILA Mayor-elect Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso has taken his oath of office before Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Kho Jr., ahead of his official return to Manila City Hall on June 30. He was joined by his family and son Joaquin Domagoso, a newly elected city councilor.
In a Facebook post, Moreno shared his guiding principle: “Trust is in the people, the work is in the elected, mercy is in God.” Calling for unity after his electoral win, Moreno urged all sides to move forward. “Let’s put politics aside. Let’s help each other fix Manila and
By Dennis Abrina
THE Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Tuesday (May 20), destroyed some P5.32 billion worth of dangerous drugs at a government owned incinerator in
rangay Aguado, Trece Martires
Cavite,
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) chairman Oscar Valenzuela.
Other PDEA, along with representatives from the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies, the Department of Justice, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, local government units, non-government organizations, and the media were also present.
A total of 2.2 million kilograms of solid illegal drugs, and 3,447.0920 milliters of liquid illegal drugs went up in smoke during the destruction held at the Integrated Waste Management, Inc. facility.
Among the illegal drugs that were burned were over 738 kilos of shabu; 1,478 kilos of marijuana: 4.8 kilos of Ecstasy pills, .2168 grams of cocaine and some other prohibited drugs.
“These are pieces of drug evidence confiscated during anti-drug operations by PDEA and other counterpart law enforcement agencies, including those turned over by authorities that were recently ordered by the court to be destroyed. Stacked inside a chamber, the dangerous drugs were burned beyond recovery”, said PDEA chief Isagani Nerez.
This is the first drug destruction conducted under Nerez watch at the PDEA that started three months ago.
Among the dangerous drugs destroyed were the 404.951 5 kilograms of shabu that were seized by combined operatives of PDEA, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) during an interdiction operation at the Port of Manila last January 23.
Nerez commended the efforts of the different branches of the Regional Trial Courts for the expeditious prosecution and disposition of drug cases which paved the way for the expeditious destruction of these illegal drugs
Nerez noted that the destruction process should have dispelled any public misgivings that seized drug were being recycled.
“PDEA promotes transparency and its actions are open to the people as advocated under the “Bagong Pilipinas” program led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The public deserves nothing less than our utmost diligence and integrity,” he said.
By Vince Lopez
THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reaffirmed its strong commitment to maritime security and rulesbased international order during the opening of the 6th Philippines-United States Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan on May 20.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Western Command (WESCOM) also served as one of the key partners in the capacity-building phase of the exercise between the PCG and its American counterpart, the United States Coast Guard (USCG).
The PCG maintains diplomatic relations with the U.S. and other allied countries that support its mission to protect lives and properties at sea, as well as uphold a peaceful and rules-based Philippine maritime domain.
The PCG deployed BRP Melchora
Aquino, BRP Malapascua, and PCG Islander Aircraft 251, while the AFP WESCOM sent in PS-16, PG-905, and AW109 air asset to join USCGC Stratton in the maritime exercise in the waters off Occidental Mindoro. Covering an operational area of 572.90 square nautical miles, the drills simulated real-world scenarios through four primary phases, namely Communication Exercise testing seamless inter-agency maritime coordination; search and rescue involving joint life-saving response capabilities, division tactics that ensure organized, professional manuevering among combined assets, and photo exercise that capture unified maritime pres-
By Rex Espiritu
A JOINT training exercise between the Philippine Army and its Australian counterpart kicked off on Monday in Camp Evangelista in Cagayan de Oro City in Mindanao.
Dubbed Exercise Kasangga 20251, the event marked a “significant collaboration between the two armies,” Army spokesman Col. Louie Dema-ala said in a statement.
The month-long training joint ex-
ercise which runs from May 19 to June 24, is hosted by Camp Kibar in Bukidnon, reputedly home to the Mindanao Army Training Group of the Philippine Army Training Command.
The drills follow year’s successful iterations of Exercise Kasangga held in Northern Luzon and the Bicol Region by the Philippine Army’s 9th and 5th Infantry Divisions. The term “Kasangga,” meaning “ally” or “partner” in Filipino, un-
By Vito Barcelo
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested a South Korean wanted by authorities in Seoul and the Interpol for drug trafficking, particularly “philopon”, a drug used as a stimulant during World War II. The Korean, identified as Maeng Juhwan, 29 was apprehended last May 3 along Jupiter St. in Bel Air subdivision, Makati City by operatives from the BI’s fugitive search unit (FSU).
“We will deport him because he is an undesirable and overstaying alien whose presence here poses a risk to public safety and security,” BI chief Joel Anthony Viado said.
He added that Juhwan will be sent back to Korea as soon as the BI board of commissioners has issued the order
for his deportation.
“He will then be blacklisted and perpetually banned from re-entering the Philippines, he added.
Juhwan is also a subject of an Interpol red notice issued last Feb. 13 which indicated that an arrest warrant was issued by the Chuncheon district court on Oct. 25, 2023 for violating Korea’s narcotics control act.
Juhwan allegedly orchestrated the smuggling of Philopon, a residue of methamphetamine tagged as a commonly abused illegal substance in Korea.
Philopon was produced by Japan’s Dainippon Pharmaceutical Co. and distributed to pilots and soldiers for long flights and combat. In North Korea, philopon, also called ice, was the most common drug found in the country.
derscores the collaborative spirit of this exercise. The training features realistic scenarios designed to refine the participating troops’ skills and enhance their understanding of each other’s tactics, techniques, and procedures, Dema-ala said.
Key focus areas include jungle and urban operations, breaching techniques, tactical casualty care, jungle survival, mobility and counter-mobility tasks, and reconnaissance operations.
Philippine Army leaders expressed confidence that *Exercise Kasangga* will significantly enhance the combat capabilities of individual soldiers and units while strengthening the interoperability of both armies.
“The Philippine Army is committed to building strong partnerships with partner nations such as Australia with the end view of promoting regional stability and security,” Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido said
ence and interoperability in action.
According to Palawan Coast Guard District chief Commo. Weniel Azcuna, the exercise underscored the enduring alliance and shared commitment of the Philippines and the U.S. To uphold maritime security and safety, as well as a rules-based international order.
“We conducted operations with transparency, professionalism, and humanitarian intent. This exercise is about ensuring readiness, saving lives, and supporting our shared maritime responsibilities because the Filipino nation deserves our service rooted in law, discipline, and respect for human life,” Azcuna explained
DSWD musters record three million food packs
THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has piled up a total of 3,000,658 boxes of family food packs (FFPs) prepositioned in the agency’s warehouses nationwide. — the highest stockpile recorded so far in the Department’s history. Assistant Secretary and DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said it was the agency’s biggest inventory so far of FFPs, reflecting its “untiring dedication to bolster year-round preparation for disasters and calamities.”
“This big number will go a long way in ensuring that our relief resources can sustain our disaster response efforts,” Dumlao noted. Maricel V. Cruz
PAF hosts ’25 youth leaders’ conference
THE Philippine Air Force (PAF), through its Air Education and Training Command and Civil-Military Operations Group, hosted the 2025 Youth Leaders’ Summit from May 16–18 at Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas. With the theme “Youth Air Warriors A.R.I.S.E.,” the summit brought together youth leaders, Reserve Officers Training Corps cadets, and junior PAF officers for a three-day leadership and national security immersion.
A key feature was the forum on “The Role of Youth in Addressing Maritime Security Challenges,” where the PAF emphasized its growing role in maritime domain awareness (MDA) through air surveillance, joint operations, and modernization efforts under PAF Flight Plan 2040. Rex Espiritu Guimaras mango fest draws hordes to island
THE 2025 Manggahan Festival manifested anew the fruit’s potentials to fuel the economic growth of the island province of Guimaras as evinced by throngs of visitors who pumped millions of pesos to the island’s coffers.
Now in full swing until May 25, the affair highlights not only the world-famous mangoes but also the wide-ranging benefits it brings to tourism, agriculture, transport, retail, and hospitality sectors.
“The Manggahan Festival has remarkably boosted the local economy,” said Guimaras Rep. Lucille Nava during the opening program. Caloy Lozada
WITH Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil preparing to retire on June 7, the question now is who will take over the reins of the 230,000-strong Philippine National Police. No doubt, it will be a critical transition that goes beyond a routine turnover, as it could impact on national security, law and order operations, and the political future of the Marcos family. Four names are making rounds in Camp Crame and officer circles: PNP No. 2 LGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, LGen. Edgar Allan Okubo, MGen. Nicolas Torre III, and NCRPO Chief BGen. Anthony Aberin.
All four have impressive credentials, but what could prove crucial at this time is more than seniority and merit. At the heart of the selection process is one nonnegotiable requirement: loyalty to the Commander-in-Chief.
Among the four, Nartatez appears to be the strongest contender. As the Deputy Chief for Administration, he holds the second-highest position in the PNP hierarchy. However, his name is mired in persistent rumors of political proximity to Senator Imee Marcos, the President’s sister, and a figure often viewed as charting her own course—sometimes at odds with Malacañang.
The scuttlebutt points to Nartatez as the primary source of critical information that fueled Sen. Imee Marcos’ Senate hearings on the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte. A longtime Marcos loyalist and Imee’s former police chief in Ilocos Norte, Nartatez didn’t just earn her trust—he is said to have embedded himself in her circle as a dependable insider within the national security framework.
Social media discourse, amplified by pro-Marcos influencers, has further complicated his bid. Nartatez is said to be the senator’s “mole” in the PNP, a claim that, if true, raises questions of divided loyalty and potential conflict of interest.
In an institution where allegiance to the chain of command is paramount, such allegations cannot be simply ignored.
Compounding these concerns are allegations circulating in vlogs and social media posts that suggest Nartatez could be deviating from the straight and narrow path expected of law enforcers. While these claims have not been substantiated by official probes, their prevalence in online chatter adds another layer of controversy to his candidacy.
Meanwhile, MGen. Torre has emerged as a bold figure within the force. His involvement in high-risk and politically sensitive operations such as the arrest of controversial religious lead-
er Apollo Quiboloy and, more recently, former president Rodrigo Duterte, signifies a willingness to carry out difficult tasks for the Marcos Jr. administration.
However, his rising profile could also make him a target of reprisal from powerful political camps.
LGen. Okubo and BGen. Aberin, while relatively low-key, are both seen as reliable and competent. Okubo, a well-respected officer who once headed the elite SAF and later the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations, has maintained a solid but quiet record.
The wrong man at the helm could undermine the administration’s law enforcement initiatives
Aberin, as NCRPO chief, is known for his calm but steady leadership in Metro Manila, a politically sensitive region.
With a radically shifting political landscape, particularly in the wake of the recent senatorial election that saw the opposition make significant gains, the stakes are higher than ever.
The new PNP chief must not only be capable of navigating a potentially hostile legislative environment but must also protect the organization from destabilizing political pressures.
This is no time for experimentation.
The wrong man at the helm could undermine the administration’s law enforcement initiatives, exacerbate discontent within the ranks, and even open up cracks in the government’s internal security apparatus.
A compromised PNP leadership could spell doom for the President’s already precarious trust and approval ratings.
The right man, on the other hand, can serve as a guarantee against chaos. Loyalty, now more than ever, is crucial to the national interest and political stability.
The President must appoint a PNP Chief whose allegiance is clear and who can be trusted to carry out policy without interference or divided loyalties.
As the June 7 deadline nears, President Marcos Jr. must render a decision that is not only strategic but existential.
The survival of his administration could very well depend on the man who leads the PNP into this new phase in the life of the nation.
(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)
THE latest election was the 11th I’ve been part of since I started volunteering for PPCRV in 2021. Eleven elections. That’s a lot of ballots, a lot of waiting in line, a lot of watching, hoping, praying. But more than anything, it’s been a front-row seat to how democracy works in the Philippines—and how much work it still needs.
You see, it’s easy to get frustrated, disillusioned, even cynical. Every election brings a mix of emotions. You see people shouting over each other, spreading fake news, buying votes, making wild promises. You also see people working quietly, hoping fiercely, fighting for something better. And in the middle of all that noise and chaos, you learn things that no textbook can teach. One of the first things I’ve realized is this: we participate to include, not to exclude. That’s the heart of democracy. That’s why we run, vote, speak up—not just for ourselves, but so more people can be part of the conversation. So, more people can be heard. Even the ones we don’t agree with.
ABOOK set to be released this week dives deep into the decision of former American President Joseph Biden to seek reelection in 2024 despite obvious signs of weakness in his physical and mental capacity, brought about by old age.
Original Sin by journalists Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson “presents a scathing account of a president cocooned from reality –and fuels questions about his role in the party,” according to The Guardian.
While the book is yet to be circulated globally, excerpts have been made available in some news outlets, and the authors have been granting interviews into their process of obtaining material for the book. Most of their sources requested anonymity.
The book is expected to detail how Mr. Biden’s decline was at-
tempted to be hidden from public view by his inner circle. His disastrous performance during a debate with now-President Donald Trump
The Biden story could be seen as a lesson in leadership, selflessness, and patriotism
is, in hindsight, a manifestation of what they had been trying to conceal all along.
This week, too, the former President’s camp announced he is suffering from prostate cancer, which had spread to his bones. This, in itself, is tragic, as is the thought of the serious blow that the concealment dealt on the prospects of the Democratic party, viewed in the light of current decisions and policies made by the Trump administration.
The Biden story could be seen as a lesson in leadership, selflessness, and patriotism. This is particularly significant at this point in Philippine politics, when we have just elected public servants to lead us in the next three years. Unfortunately, many officials appear intoxicated with a sense of their own indispensability. They may hide their weaknesses, focus on their strengths, and use the benefit of their incumbency political/ familial brand.
Such decisions, especially when they yield disastrous consequences, will negate whatever positive contributions they may have made earlier on in their career.
Sometimes, it’s tempting to shut people out or shut them down just because they think differently. But if there’s one thing we need to remember, it’s this: we are not the only ones who love this country.
The most important lesson of all: we don’t need to be perfect to make a difference
Other people—people with different views, backgrounds, experiences—they love the Philippines too. We just show it in different ways. That leads me to the second point: real is better than ideal.
There’s something powerful about being grounded in reality. It doesn’t mean we give up on the dream of a better future. It just means we get our hands dirty. We do the work. We face hard truths, and we fix what we can. And in doing that, we become more credible, more compassionate, more effective. I also learned that civility and decency are never out of style.
I know, I know—some people think that being loud or offensive gets you more attention. And maybe it does, for a while. But if you ask me, that’s not the kind of attention we should be after.
Politics isn’t just about being seen. It’s about being good. Not perfect. Just good. Because at the end of the day, the politics we practice reflects the kind
We all want a perfect system. We all want honest elections, qualified candidates, mature voters, civil discourse. But the truth is, we don’t live in a perfect world. We live in this one. Messy, loud, broken in places—but still worth fighting for. So, while ideals are important, our truth should speak to what’s real, what’s happening right now, in our time, in our situation.
of people we are. And if we’re honest, kind, and decent—especially when it’s hardest—then we’re already doing something right.
That’s where the idea of the “politics of goodness” comes in. I believe in that.
I believe that people, even in politics, can still be good. That we’re capable of choosing the right thing, even when no one is watching. That kindness and compassion are not signs of weakness, but of strength. The “politics of goodness” is not a slogan. It’s a way of life. It’s a reminder that public service is about love—yes, love—for country, for people, for the future.
It’s about seeing politics not as a game to be won, but a responsibility to be carried. A duty to build something better, not just for ourselves, but for those who come after us.
I’ve seen that kind of goodness in the people I’ve met along the way. Volunteers who wake up before dawn to set up precincts.
Teachers who guard the vote with all their might. Senior citizens who walk for miles just to cast their vote. Young people who organize forums, educate voters, create fact-checking pages. These are everyday heroes. These are signs of hope. So yes, our democracy is far from perfect. But that’s no reason to give up.
It’s every reason to keep going. Because every election, no matter how flawed, is another chance to try again. Another shot at doing things better. Another moment to stand for something true, something good. And maybe that’s the most important lesson of all: we don’t need to be perfect to make a difference. We just need to keep showing up. And I will. Again, and again. As long as I can.
Because I believe in this country. Because I believe in goodness. Because I believe that democracy, even at its messiest, still works—when we work for it.
GAZA CITY—Israel has said it would “take control” of the whole of Gaza as it intensified attacks across the territory, where aid trickled in for the first time in over two months after the easing of a total blockade.
With supply shipments blocked by Israel since March 2, the World Health Organization warned Gaza’s “two million people are starving.”
Gaza’s health ministry said Monday at least 3,340 people have been killed since Israel resumed strikes on March 18, taking the war’s overall toll to 53,486.
Israel, facing mounting criticism over the humanitarian crisis, announced it would let limited aid into Gaza and said the first five trucks entered Monday carrying supplies “including food for babies”.
UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher said in a statement that nine trucks had been “cleared to enter... but it is a drop in the ocean of what is urgently needed.”
UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, who was unable to confirm the number of trucks inside Gaza, said that “none of the aid has been picked up” at a designated zone as it was “already dark” and due to “security concerns, we cannot operate in those conditions.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said aid had resumed because “images of mass starvation” could harm the legitimacy of Israel’s war effort.
The leaders of Britain, France and
WASHINGTON, DC—US President Donald Trump signed a bill on Monday making it a federal crime to post “revenge porn” -- whether it is real or generated by artificial intelligence.
The “Take It Down Act,” passed with overwhelming bipartisan congressional support, criminalizes nonconsensual publication of intimate images, while also mandating their removal from online platforms.
“With the rise of AI image generation, countless women have been harassed with deepfakes and other explicit images distributed against their will,” Trump said at a signing ceremony in the Rose Garden of the White House.
“And today we’re making it totally illegal,” the president said. “Anyone who intentionally distributes explicit images without the subject’s consent will face up to three years in prison.” Websites that fail to remove the images promptly, within 48 hours, will face civil liabilities, Trump said.
First Lady Melania Trump endorsed the bill in early March and attended the signing ceremony in a rare public White House appearance.
The First Lady has largely been an elusive figure at the White House since her husband took the oath of office on January 20, spending only limited time in Washington.
In remarks at the signing ceremony, she described the bill as a “national victory that will help parents and families protect children from online exploitation.” AFP
Canada issued a harsh condemnation of Israel’s conduct of the war, slamming its “egregious actions” in Gaza, particularly the expanded offensive and the “wholly inadequate” resumption of aid.
They warned of “concrete actions” if Israel did not ease its stepped up offensive. Netanyahu called their joint statement a “huge prize” for Hamas.
A group of 22 countries, including France, Britain, Canada, Japan and Australia said in a joint statement that Gaza’s population “faces starvation” and “must receive the aid they desperately need.”
In southern Gaza, the Israeli military issued an evacuation call to Palestinians around Khan Yunis city ahead of what it described as an “unprecedented attack.”
Gaza’s civil defence agency said 91 people were killed in Israeli attacks across the territory on Monday.
Netanyahu, in a video posted on Telegram, said that “the fighting is intense and we are making progress.”
“We will take control of all the territory of the strip,” he added.
Israel’s military said on Monday it had struck “160 terror targets” in Gaza over the past day.AFP
ELUSIVE DEAL. This combination of pictures created on May 19, 2025 shows President Donald Trump (left)) on the phone on Jan, 28, 2017 in Washington, and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin (right) on the phone in Moscow on Dec. 27, 2023. Last Monday, Trump held a phone call with Putin as part of his long-running effort to end the war set off by Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. AFP
WASHINGTON, DC – Donald
Trump said Russia and Ukraine would “immediately” start peace talks after he spoke with Vladimir Putin on Monday, despite the Russian leader rebuffing the US president’s call for an unconditional truce.
Trump framed the two-hour conversation as a breakthrough as the Republican seeks an elusive deal to end the conflict that he promised on the campaign trail to solve within 24 hours.
But Putin struck a more reserved tone, saying he was ready to work with Kyiv on a memorandum towards ending the war Moscow launched in Feb. 2022 but insisting on compromises on both sides.
Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who has patched up relations with the US president after a blazing row
in the Oval Office, urged Trump in a separate call not to make any decisions “without us.”
Trump has pinned his hopes on ending the conflict on a personal bond with Putin, even as he shows growing frustration with the Kremlin leader’s refusal to do a deal.
“I believe it went very well,” Trump said on his Truth Social network after Monday’s Putin call.
“Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a Ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the War.”
Trump later said he thought Putin was ready for a ceasefire.
“I believe he wants to stop,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. “If I thought President Putin didn’t want to get this over with, I wouldn’t even be talking about it.” AFP
TAIPEI—Taiwanese President Lai
Ching-te marked his first year in office on Tuesday as his government grapples with Chinese military pressure, US tariff threats and domestic political turmoil.
Lai, a staunch defender of Taiwan’s sovereignty and detested by Beijing, delivered wide-ranging remarks on the need “to prepare for war to avoid war” and also bolster the island’s economic resilience.
After promising to stand up to China and defend democracy at his inauguration, Lai insisted Taiwan was “willing” to talk to Beijing if there was “parity and dignity”.
“Peace is priceless and there are no winners in war,” Lai said, but added “we cannot have illusions” and vowed to continue “to strengthen our national defence capabilities.”
China, which claims Taiwan is part of its territory and has threatened to use force to annex it, has held several rounds of large-scale military drills around the island since Lai took office.
Taiwan’s coast guard warned Monday that China may use “cognitive warfare” to “disrupt public morale” as Lai marks the first anniversary of his inauguration.
As Taiwan comes under pressure
in misinformation and conspiracy theories online, with unverified content spreading unproven claims of electoral fraud and Chinese espionage. Pro-Yoon rallies turned violent in January when extremist supporters stormed a Seoul courthouse. AFP
US surgeons perform 1st bladder transplant
WASHINGTON, DC— Surgeons at a hospital in Los Angeles, California have successfully performed the world’s first human bladder transplant, hospital officials said. The surgery, performed May 4 at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, is a promising development for other patients suffering from serious bladder disorders.
The recipient
from Washington to move more factories to US soil and reduce their trade imbalance, Lai said Taiwan would not “put all our eggs in one basket”.
Taiwan would increase its economic resilience by diversifying markets and boosting domestic demand.
Lai also announced plans to set up a sovereign wealth fund to “boost Taiwan’s economic momentum”, but did not provide details about its size.
The president has seen his first term in the top job engulfed in domestic political turmoil as opposition parties, which control the parliament, seek to stymie his agenda. AFP
“The
“The
SHANGHAI—Just over a week after a ceasefire with India was struck, Pakistan’s foreign minister is visiting his country’s largest arms supplier, China, with the performance of the weapons they supplied a matter of burning interest for analysts and governments alike.
The most striking claim from four days of fighting earlier this month was Islamabad’s contention its Chinese-supplied jets had shot down six Indian aircraft—including three French-made Rafale fighters -with some observers seeing this as a symbol of Beijing’s rising military might.
Experts who spoke to AFP cautioned that a lack of confirmed information and the limited scope of fighting made it difficult to draw solid conclusions about the Chinese equipment’s prowess. Still, “this was a rare opportunity for the international community to gauge Chinese military hardware on the battlefield against Western (Indian) hardware”, said Lyle Morris from the Asia Society Policy Institute. While China pours hundreds of billions of dollars into defense spending each year, it lags far behind the United States as an arms exporter.
China’s drones are used in counter-
terrorism operations, and its weapons have been deployed by Saudi Arabia in Yemen and against rebel forces in African countries, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) senior researcher Siemon Wezeman told AFP.
“But this is the first time since the 1980s that a state has used large numbers of Chinese weapons of many types in action against another state,” said Wezeman, referencing the IranIraq war when they were used on both sides.
Pakistan accounts for around 63 percent of China’s arms exports, according to SIPRI. AFP
THE Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is gearing up for a more exciting edition of the Batang Pinoy 2025, set to take place in General Santos City from October 25 to 30.
As one of PSC’s flagship grassroots sports programs, Batang Pinoy, expected to draw around 15,000 athletes nationwide, caters to athletes aged 17 and below and serves as a vital platform to discover and develop future stars in Philippine sports.
This year’s edition will feature competitions in 27 sports -- aquatics-swimming, archery, arnis, athletics, badminton, basketball (3x3), boxing, chess, cycling, dancesport, futsal, gymnastics, jiu jitsu, judo, kickboxing, karate, muay, pencak silat, sepak takraw, soft tennis, tennis, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, weightlifting, wrestling and wushu.
“Our main objective for this year’s Batang Pinoy is to provide the delegates an excellent experience as if they are already competing in a global level of competition they usually see in televisions and social media,” PSC chairman Richard Bachmann stated.
Coming off a successful and memorable previous edition of the tournament held in Puerto
Princesa City in November last year, this year’s Batang Pinoy will be hosted in the city famously known as the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines” GenSan, home of world-class sporting icons Manny Pacquiao and Nonito Donaire, Jr., has proven its capacity to host multiple local and international sporting events since then. In 1996, GenSan served as co-host of the Palarong Pambansa with the City of Koronadal and the Province of Sarangani, proving the city can hold programs dedicated for the youth through sports.
Within the same year, GenSan hosted the inaugural edition of the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area or BIMP-EAGA Friendship Games as well as its seventh edition in 2012.
In October last year, the city stressed its commitment in promoting sports across all sectors by staging the Mindanao leg of the Indigenous Peoples Games, another grassroots program of the PSC for members of the indigenous communities.
JUNIOR ALTAS TO GREEN ARCHER. University of Perpetual Help System Dalta (UPHSD)
for Sports Anton
and
turned over NCAA
(champion team Perpetual
Altas) LeBron Jhames Daep (center) to De La Salle University head coach Topex Robinson (right) during simple rites on Monday at the UPH in Las Piñas City. Dennis Abrina
CALOOCAN Batang Kankaloo proved steady under pressure and stunned Pampanga, 90-87, on Tuesday in Manny Pacquiao presents 1xBetMPBL 2025 Season at the Orion Sports Complex in Bataan. Trailing almost the entire game, the Giant Lanterns finally seized the lead, 85-84, as Raymond Binuya bunched seven points against two free throws by Batang Kankaloo Paul Sanga. It turned out to be a fling with glory as the Batang Kankalo responded with back-to-back layups by Ronnie Mathias and Jeramer Cabanag, the last with 15.9 seconds left. Larry Muyang missed from under, got fouled, and converted both charities to move reigning backto-back champion Pampanga to within 87-88 in the dying seconds.
Allen Mina of the Ilagan Isabela Cowboys
ever, canned two more charities with 1.2 seconds left to seal the Batang Kankaloo’s eighth win against four losses in the roundrobin elimination phase of the 30-team tournament. Pampanga saw its six-game run broken and fell to 9-2, trailing pacesetter Nueva Ecija, first-game winner Abra (10-1), San Juan (9-1) and Zamboanga (10-2) in the race for playoff spots. Sanga posted 19 points, including 11 in the fourth quarter, 3 steals and 2 assists for Caloocan, which got the biggest lift from Matias with 15 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists.
Caloocan’s Paul Sanga, how-
Other Batang Kankaloos who delivered for new Caloocan Coach Mike Saguiguid, formerly of the Paranaque Patriots, were Rommel Calahat with 17 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists, and Cabanag with 14 points and 2 assists.
Open venue to get $800m facelift
NEW YORK—The US Open’s main Arthur Ashe Stadium is to be given a makeover as part of an $800 million renovation project at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center at Flushing Meadows, US tennis chiefs said Monday.
United States Tennis Association chairman Brian Vahaly said the renovations planned for the site marked part of “the largest single investment in the history of this event.”
The multi-million dollar project will include a transformation of the 24,000-seat Arthur Ashe Stadium, the US Open’s main court, a new player performance center and upgrades throughout the complex aimed at improving facilities for fans.
“This is an incredibly exciting moment for our sport and for the US Open,” Vahaly said.
“We’re proud to unveil the largest single investment in the history of this event, a multi-year transformation that will elevate the experience for every fan, player and partner
Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. AFP
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
By Randy M. Caluag
THE Philippine women’s beach handball team delivered a spirited performance at the 10th Asian Women’s Beach Handball Championships in Muscat, Oman, earning a silver medal and securing a spot in the 2026 Women’s Beach Handball World Championships.
Facing off against regional powerhouse Vietnam in the finals, the Filipinas fought with heart and determination, but fell short of the gold.
The Filipinas lost to the regional powerhouse in straight sets, 22-16 and 25-22, on the sand court.
Despite the loss, the silver proved the consistent showing of the Philippine squad, which also finished second in the 2023 edition held in South Kuta, Indonesia.
TWO Filipino fighters who were previously scheduled to compete in March now have a date for their returns to ONE Championship.
Team Lakay’s Jean Claude Saclag and AJJ Sprawl’s Marwin Quirante will be back in action to finally tackle their postponed bouts on May 23 at ONE Friday Fights 109 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
Saclag faces Turkmenistan’s Shazada Ataev in a flyweight battle while Quirante meets Russia’s Torepchi Dongak in a three-round strawweight MMA bout, as previously scheduled at ONE Friday Fights 102 on March 28, an event that was canceled due to an earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Both fighters are eyeing US$100,000 contracts to the main roster and they are on the right track, having built their cases with impressive performances.
Quirante has shown his versatility in his game, making Phan Thanh Tung submit due to strikes in his debut, before submitting Musa Musazade in his next fight to take his second straight win in the promotion.
Saclag has brought his explosive striking to the promotion, stopping both Lee Jun Young and Fajar with his heavy hands.
Another impressive performance here for both men could serve as their ticket to the main stage where reigning ONE World Champions Joshua Pacio and Yuya Wakamatsu await.
More importantly, the runner-up finish gave the team a coveted ticket to the 2026 World Championships, where it aims to build on its debut campaign in Pingtan Island, China, where the Filipinas placed 12th in 2024.
Meanwhile, the Philippine men’s handballers wrapped up their campaign with a solid fifth-place finish, matching their result from two years ago.
They capped off the tournament with
Batang Pinoy standout vows to improve his running times
By Peter Atencio
BATANG Pinoy standout Pi Durden Wangkay is gaining the confidence he needs to become one of the fastest runners in the coming 2025 Palarong Pambansa in Laoag, Ilocos Norte.
The 16-year-old Wangkay came up with his best times in the recent Asian Under-18 Athletics Championships in Saudi Arabia and the National Open.
Wangkay, a second-generation athlete following the footsteps of his coach and mom Jonah Genilza-Wangkay, will be seeking podium finishes when he sees action at the oval of the Ferdinand Marcos Stadium, the main venue of the games.
The last time he competed in the Palaro in Cebu, Wangkay never won a single medal in his stints in the secondary boys’ 100-meter and 200-meter sprints.
With her mom handling his training, Pi won three gold
medals in his next major events.
Pi, who will represent the National Capital Region, shattered the boys’ under-16, 100-meter record as he clocked 10.88 seconds during the Batang Pinoy in Puerto Princesa.
After this, Pi took the gold medal at the National Open’s under-18 event in 10.91 seconds, along with the 200-meter mint in 22.2 seconds.
Pi also came up with a lower time of 10.83 seconds during the 6th Asian Under-18 Championships in Saudi Arabia last April.
Entered in the 100-meters, the 200-meters, the 400-meters events, plus the relays, Pi believes that he can take his act to a higher level.
“Pinaghahandaan ko po nang mabuti ang bawa’t event na sinasalihan ko. Sakto lang po ang training para hindi mabugbog ang katawan ko,” said Wangkay, a student-athlete from De La Salle-Zobel.
SYDNEY—Australian Formula One driver Jack Doohan has pleaded for online abuse of his family to stop after being targeted on social media.
The 22-year-old, son of former motorcycling world champion Mick Doohan, was this month dropped by the Alpine team after only six races.
He was replaced by Argentina’s Franco Colapinto, who finished 16th at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Italy on Sunday following a big crash in qualifying.
Writing to his nearly 500,000 followers on Instagram, Doohan said a fake post attributed to his father had been created on there to paint the elder Doohan in a bad light.
“Please stop harassing my family. I didn’t think I would have to get to this point,” Doohan wrote on Instagram alongside a screenshot of what he said was the fake post. It showed a picture of Colapinto after a crash and Doohan senior supposedly commenting, “Very impressive”.
“Multiple Argentine outlets falsely reported the fabricated image, which triggered the online abuse of my family,” Doohan, now a reserve driver for Alpine, wrote.
A separate Alpine statement also called for an end to the abuse.
“We encourage everyone to remember that behind the visor of these superhuman athletes there is a person, an individual with feelings, family, friends and loved ones,” the team wrote.
“As a team we cannot condone online abuse and urge all fans of this sport we love to be kind and respectful.”
The next race is in Monaco this weekend. AFP
HONG KONG—The Philippine Dragon Boat Federation (PDBF) is back in action and ready to make waves at the Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races – a flagship sports extravaganza co-organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB).
This event is part of the Hong Kong Cultural Beat campaign to showcase the city’s extraordinary lineup of traditional festivals and cultural events.
The event takes place from May 31 to June 8 and will transform Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade into a day-andnight dragon boat carnival, featuring a festive Dragon Boat Food Lane and festive photo spots themed after the Panda Friends at the Ocean Park Hong Kong. A Beer Garden, Race Broadcast Viewing Zones, and world-class acrobatic performances by Cirque du Soleil will also add
to the fun of the dragon boat races. The Philippines’ Fighting Chance: Challenging Against More than 190 Teams from Around the World
The dragon boat races will be more fiercely contested than ever this year, with more than 190 teams and over 4,500 athletes competing in 19 races on 7 and 8 June, surpassing last year’s impressive turnout. Elite dragon boat teams from 12 countries and regions, including Hong Kong, Mainland, Macau, Taiwan, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, the United Arab Emirates, Canada, and first-time participants Egypt and Qatar, will paddle for glory in Victoria Harbour.
The Philippine Dragon Boat Federation, a returning challenger from last year, expressed their determination to improve this year and bring home
the glory to the Philippines. Having placed second runner up at the Women’s Grand Championship in the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races last year, the PDBF is gearing up for a comeback that’s stronger than ever.
“It’s a fact that we’ve struggled against stronger teams in the past, but we believe that our members can rise to the occasion and finish on the podium this year once more. If we can aim for the win, we definitely will,” said Marcia Cristobal from the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation. “Getting ready for the competition was a turbulent journey, especially coming off fresh from the Macau dragon boat competitions, but the ladies’ team this year has grit beyond measure. With every opportunity given to us, we will respond and give our best to bring pride and honor to our country,” she added.
By Darwin G. Amojelar DEPARTMENT of Transportation
(DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon on Tuesday led the inspection of six stations of EDSA Busway to ensure that their elevators are functioning.
This is a part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure that public transportation is convenient and accessible especially for priority passengers such as senior citizens, pregnant women and PWDs.
The stations that Dizon inspected include Monumento, Bagong Barrio, Balintawak, SM North, Philam and Guadalupe.
There are 18 elevators across six separate busway stations, for easier travel for passengers.
The agency earlier rolled out bidding
for the P252.8 million rehabilitation of EDSA Busway stations Phase 1. The agency said bids received in excess of the approved budget for the contract (ABC) would be automatically rejected at bid opening. Dizon earlier suspended plans to privatize the EDSA Busway system’s operations and maintenance this year as the agency prioritizes the rehabilitation of the stations before transferring them to a private concessionaire.
Dizon said the goal is to complete the station upgrades by February or March 2026. Once the stations and infrastructure upgrades are completed, the government would proceed with the privatization of the busway’s O&M, he said.
TResidential buildings accounted for the majority of constructions in March, totaling 9,426 or 63.0 percent of the total, although this was a 0.2 percent lower than 9,448 in March 2024. Single-type houses made up 87.8 percent of residential constructions, with 8,272 units.
Non-residential constructions
in sales leads, setting a remarkable 233 percent increase from the previous year.
reached 3,329, or 22.2 percent of the total, marking a 2.1-percent increase in March. Commercial buildings were the largest sub-segment, with 2,321 constructions, or 69.7 percent of nonresidential builds.
“Additions” (new constructions increasing height or area), “alterations and repairs,” and “other
constructions” contributed 3.9 percent, 8.0 percent, and 2.9 percent to the total number of constructions, respectively. These categories saw significant annual increases of 35.9 percent, 17.6 percent, and 36.9 percent, respectively, the PSA noted.
The total value of constructions in March amounted to P47.50 billion, a 20.9 percent increase from P39.30 billion a year earlier.
Non-residential buildings comprised the largest share of construction value at P22.48 billion, up 25.7 percent from P17.89 billion in March 2024. Institutional-type buildings had the highest value within this category, at
By Alena Mae S. Flores
MGEN Renewable Energy Inc.
(MGreen), the renewable energy arm of Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGen), is on track to complete its flagship project, MTerra Solar by March 2026.
MGen president Emmanuel Rubio said at the sidelines of the Schneider Electric Innovation Day Philippines 2025 that around 700 megawatts of solar panels would be installed by the end of July 2025.
“Installed, not generating. Right now, around 90 to 100 MW panels are
already laid out. By end of July, the target is 700 MW. Total project value, probably around 44 to 45 percent completion,” Rubio said.
MGreen and Terra Solar Philippines Inc. president and chief executive Dennis Jordan emphasized the company’s clear focus on enabling a cleaner, more secure energy future through large-scale innovation and inclusive development.
Jordan said at the sidelines of the Solar & Storage Live PH event that more than 5,000 contractors are deployed at the site, with the
workforce expected to peak at 16,000 at the height of construction.
Once operational, MTerra Solar will supply clean electricity to about 2.4 million households and displace an estimated 4.3 million tons of carbon emissions annually – the equivalent of removing 3 million gasoline-powered cars from the road.
MGreen inaugurated three new solar farms in the first quarter of 2025, reinforcing its commitment to expanding its clean energy capacity.
By Othel V. Campos
IRRADIATION Solutions Inc. (ISI E-Beam), a wholly-owned subsidiary of listed A Brown Company, said it acquired a 35-percent equity stake in Accudata Analytical Labs Corp., a Laguna-based diagnostics and product safety laboratory.
The strategic partnership is set to enhance ISI E-Beam’s microbiological testing capabilities and broaden its integrated service offerings to clients in the food, pharmaceutical and medical sectors.
“We are excited to launch this partnership, combining our organizations’ expertise to deliver innovative solutions that meet the highest standards of safety, compliance, and product in-
tegrity. This collaboration reinforces a shared commitment to industries where healthcare and food safety are critical,” said ISI E-Beam president Paul Juat. The P12.5-million investment will support the expansion of Accudata’s laboratory infrastructure, equipment upgrades and the introduction of advanced services. Accudata, based in Calamba, Laguna, is a specialized diagnostics and product safety laboratory that provides microbial testing and regulatory compliance services, supporting various industries through the detection of pathogens, spoilage organisms, and mycotoxins in food and feed products, as well as microbial analysis of raw materials, water, and industrial inputs.
P10.20 billion (45.4 percent). Residential buildings accounted for P17.88 billion (37.7 percent of the total value), showing a 3.0 percent annual increase from P17.37 billion. Single-type buildings again led this category with P12.91 billion in value (72.2 percent). The total floor area of constructions in March 2025 was 3.59 million square meters, a 13.9 percent increase from 3.16 million square meters a year prior.
Building permits in March 2025
Residential building permits in March
14,973 9,426 3,329
Non-residential building permits
Don Don Donki stores asked to source PH items
THE Philippines proposed the inclusion of more Filipino-made consumer products in Don Quijote and Don Don Donki stores worldwide to boost the global visibility of local goods through one of Japan’s most recognizable retail chains. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque, in a meeting with Japanese retail giant Pan Pacific International Holdings Corp. (PPIH), owner of the popular Don Quijote and Don Don Donki stores, highlighted the country’s export strengths.
Roque asked PPIH to consider sourcing a broader range of Philippine products across its extensive retail network in Japan, the United States and other Asian markets.
“We welcome every opportunity to introduce Filipino products to the world, especially through partners who share our commitment to innovation, inclusion, and excellence,” Roque said in meeting with PPIH officials in Tokyo.
PPIH expressed strong interest in increasing the visibility of Filipino-made goods, both as branded exports and as components of Japanese-packaged products customized for international markets.
Othel V.
By Jenniffer B. Austria
DAseana Plaza Phase 1 will offer about 70,000 square meters of gross leasable area (GLA), the company said Tuesday in a disclosure to the stock exchange.
The entire project is expected to provide around 130,000 square meters of GLA.
Once Phase 1 is completed, DMW’s commercial portfolio will grow to more than 300,000 square meters of GLA.
The company did not provide planned capital spending. However, it said the bulk of this year’s P3 billion capital expenditures will be used to fund the construction of Aseana Plaza Phase 1.
The development will offer modern office space for logistics and shipping companies, BPO firms and corporate offices.
DMW hopes to attract companies looking for a modern workspace in an integrated urban area.
The complex will include a central al fresco plaza and will connect to the nearby Parqal greenway. It will also be linked to a future skywalk system to improve walkability in Aseana City.
“We have always envisioned Aseana City as more than just
a business district — it’s a community where work, leisure, and daily life intersect,” said Delfin Angelo Wenceslao, DMW chief executive.
“Breaking ground on Aseana Plaza is a major step toward realizing that vision, creating a destination where global industry players and local communities converge.”
DMW reported a 4.8 percent increase in net income for the first quarter of the year to P551 million. The growth was driven by a 31 percent rise in leasing revenue to P790 million.
Commercial building revenues jumped 27 percent to P406 million due to improved occupancy across DMW’s commercial portfolio, while residential revenues rose 13 percent to P167 million.
“In Aseana City, we see that demand rises to meet wellconceived supply, validating our approach of building not just structures but vibrant communities. As we move forward with our development pipeline, we remain confident in sustaining our momentum and delivering long-term value to our stakeholders,” Wenceslao said.
PHILIPPINE stocks fell for the fifth consecutive trading day, as investor sentiment turned cautious.
The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) dropped 119.51 points, or 1.85 percent, to close at 6,335.33. The broader all-shares index also lost 45.09 points, or 1.20 percent, to end at 3,720.57.
“Philippine shares extended their decline as investors grew more wary, opting to scale back their holdings after initial optimism waned following Moody’s U.S. downgrade,” Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said.
Analysts said the widening of the balance of payments deficit and drop in vehicle sales also contributed to the market’s negative sentiment.
All major sectors were in the red. The biggest losses came from the services
CMSA CRANES.
Contecon Manzanillo (CMSA), International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s (ICTSI) Mexican business unit and operator of the Second Specialized Container Terminal at the Port of Manzanillo, acquires two quay cranes and four hybrid rubber tired gantry (RTG) cranes to further enhance its operational capabilities CMSA took delivery of the new equipment on May 11. At 60 meters high, the quay cranes are the largest in the Americas. They enable agile and efficient operations on vessels up to 400 meters long with beams of more than 60 meters.
2025 to enable you to participate in the meeting: Bit.ly/acebutuan2025
meeting will be conducted via Zoom Webinar. Kindly register thru the following link, on or before June 9, 2025 to enable you to participate in the meeting: Bit.ly/acebutuan2025
The link will take you through the process of registration. You will receive a confirmation email once you have successfully registered in the platform, including the details and procedures in the conduct of the meeting. The confirmation email will also contain a link and instructions for the online voting which will be conducted via an online platform. The meeting shall be recorded (visual and audio) for future reference.
The link will take you through the process of registration. You will receive a confirmation email once you have successfully registered in the platform, including the details and procedures in the conduct of the meeting.
The confirmation email will also contain a link and instructions for the online voting which will be conducted via an online platform. The meeting shall be recorded (visual and audio) for future reference.
The Agenda:
The Agenda:
Call to Order
I. Call to Order
Invocation
Invocation
Determination of Quorum
Determination of Quorum
Welcome Message from the Chairman of the Board
V. Reading and Approval of the Minutes of the Y2024 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting VI. Presentation and Approval/Ratification of the Y2024 Annual Financial Statements VII. President’s Report VIII. Ratification of the Acts and Proceedings of the Board of Directors, Officers, and Management of the Corporation
Welcome Message from the Chairman of the Board V. Reading and Approval of the Minutes of the Y2024 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting
Presentation and Approval/Ratification of the Y2024 Annual Financial Statements VII. President’s Report
VIII. Ratification of the Acts and Proceedings of the Board of Directors, Officers, and Management of the Corporation
IX. Election of the Board of Directors for Y2025-2026
X. Appointment of External Auditor for Y2025
IX. Election of the Board of Directors for Y2025-2026
X. Appointment of External Auditor for Y2025
XI. Adjournment
XI. Adjournment
Only stockholders of record at the close of business on May 27, 2025 (Record Date) shall be entitled to notice of and to vote at the meeting. If you cannot personally attend the meeting, you may opt to send your proxy to attend on your behalf. Kindly submit your duly executed proxy form with the undersigned via email at acebutuanasm2023@gmail.com not later than May 26, 2025, but preferably on or before June 1, 2024, to enable your proxy to register in the Zoom Webinar. The sample proxy form is available at the Corporation’s website, for your reference. [NOTE: Management is not soliciting proxies]
Only stockholders of record at the close of business on May 27, 2025 (Record Date) shall be entitled to notice of and to vote at the meeting. If you cannot personally attend the meeting, you may opt to send your proxy to attend on your behalf. Kindly submit your duly executed proxy form with the undersigned via email at acebutuanasm2023@gmail.com not later than May 26, 2025, but preferably on or before June 1, 2024, to enable your proxy to register in the Zoom Webinar. The sample proxy form is available at the Corporation’s website, for your reference. [NOTE: Management is not soliciting proxies]
The Information Statement with the Management Report and SEC Form 17 -A are posted at the Corporation’s website at www. acebutuan.com.ph.
The Information Statement with the Management Report and SEC Form 17 -A are posted at the Corporation’s website at www. acebutuan.com.ph.
You may contact the undersigned via email atacebutuanasm2023@ gmail.com. or through telephone/mobile numbers: 0985 535 7801 if you have inquiries or concerns regarding the meeting.
You may contact the undersigned via email atacebutuanasm2023@ gmail.com. or through telephone/mobile numbers: 0985 535 7801 if you have inquiries or concerns regarding the meeting.
MARIE
sector, which dropped 2.21 percent. Financials also fell 1.99 percent, while holding firms lost 1.83 percent. Trading volume reached P6.8 billion. Market breadth was negative, with 62 gainers, 126 losers, and 55 stocks unchanged. Despite market’s steep decline, Jollibee Foods Corp. rose 0.83 percent to P242. International Container Terminal Services Inc. declined 3.85 percent to P400.
Meanwhile, most Asian markets rose Tuesday as risk appetite returned following the previous day’s US rating-fueled losses, with sentiment also boosted after China cut interest rates to historic lows.
The rally tracked advances on Wall Street, where the initial selloff sparked by Moody’s removal of Washington’s triple-A grade soon gave way to a
push back into beaten-down equities amid hopes about US trade talks.
After Donald Trump’s April 2 tariff blitz sowed global turmoil, the deal between China and the United States last week -- which slashed eye-watering tit-for-tat levies -- has re-energized dealers and pushed most markets back to levels before the US president’s “Liberation Day” duties. Trump suspended his harshest measures for 90 days until mid-July, and while few solid agreements have been reached so far there is optimism that the worst of the crisis has passed. Still, China caused a little concern after it accused Washington of violating their tariff deal in Geneva this month following a US warning that using Huawei’s AI chips anywhere in the world would break its export controls. Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP
NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE Notice is hereby given that the Estate of the late NEMESIO B. ARTAIZ has been extrajudicially settled among his heirs dated 22 of April, 2025 as per Doc. No. 521; Page No. 106; Book No. III; Series of 2025; under the Notarial Register of Atty. Jose Francis R. Marasigan. (MS-(MAY 7/14/21, 2025)
NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE Notice is hereby given that the Estate of the late VALENTINO UMBALIN was extra-judicially settled by his sole legal heir through an Affidavit of SelfAdjudication, on the 19th of March, 2025 as per Doc. No. 214; Page No. 43; Book No. 265; Series of 2025; before Notary Public Atty. Lolita
JOLLIBEE, the flagship brand of Jollibee Group, continues its strong growth across Southeast Asia, recording robust sales performance and store expansion in key markets in the region.
The brand achieved a 27.8 percent systemwide sales growth across its Southeast Asia operations outside the Philippines, including Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei and store expansion in key markets in the region in the first quarter of 2025.
Jollibee’s strong showing in Southeast Asia contributed significantly to Jollibee Group’s third consecutive year of record performance in 2024.
The brand opened 51 new stores in the region in 2024, including its 200th store in Vietnam, reflecting Jollibee’s commitment to bringing the joy of eating to the region’s most dynamic quick-service restaurant (QSR) markets.
“We are grateful for our consumers’ love for Jollibee, which reflects the strength of our flagship brand and the appeal of our offerings in different markets,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, global president and chief executive of the Jollibee Group.
“Our continued strong growth across our international markets, particularly Southeast Asia, is a testament to the hard work of our team and commitment to our five-year strategy of tripling attributable net income.”
The brand’s continuous effort to build relevance and resonance with local customers has resulted in strong local patronage across all Southeast Asian markets.
In Vietnam where Jollibee now operates more than 200 stores, nearly all customers are Vietnamese.
In Brunei, Jollibee has established a leading position as the market leader in the QSR category, with virtually all customers also being local Bruneians.
The brand is also experiencing strong community patronage in Singapore and Malaysia, where the majority of its consumers are locals. Another key driver of Jollibee’s success in the region is the taste superiority of its products, especially the brand’s world-famous Chickenjoy fried chicken — recognized by global platforms such as USA Today as the “Best Fried Chicken” and lauded by renowned publications including Eater.com, Yahoo! and South China Morning Post. The brand’s Spicy Chickenjoy also continues to make waves, with many local consumers in Singapore and Malaysia praising its uniquely spicy kick compared to the competition.
(MS-MAY 21 & 22, 2025)
(MS-MAY
Beyond its fan-favorite bestsellers, Jollibee’s success has also been fueled by its ability to introduce locally resonant menu innovations, including Chili Chicken in Vietnam and the Spicy Spaghetti in Malaysia, which have been well-received by local consumers.
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has confiscated P134.4 million worth of uncertified and potentially dangerous electrical and electronic products since 2023.
The haul includes 382,290 units of lighting equipment, wiring cables and devices, consumer electronics, and household appliances, all lacking the required Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and/or Safety Mark and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers. “In observance of National Electrical
Safety Month this May, we urge both the public and industry stakeholders to make safety a top priority—from responsible manufacturing and strict quality control during importation to proper retail practices,” DTI Secretary Cristina Roque said in a statement Tuesday.
She said DTI strengthens consumer protection through stricter product monitoring and enforcement of key laws such as the Consumer Act (RA 7394), the Price Act (RA 7581 as amended by RA 10623), and the Product Standards Law (RA 4109).
Electrical Safety Month, observed every May under Presidential Proclamation No. 193, promotes public awareness of safe electrical practices to help prevent accidents and
economic losses.
The DTI’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), as the country’s National Standards Body, develops and enforces safety standards for electrical products.
Supporting this mandate, the Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) conducts market inspections and seizes uncertified items that pose serious risks.
“This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting Filipinos from unregulated, noncompliant products. The DTI, working alongside informed consumers, responsible businesses, and proactive industries, stands for quality and safety in the marketplace,” said Fair Trade Group supervising head, assistant secretary Agaton Teodoro Uvero.
By Alena Mae S. Flores
VANTAGE Energy, an affiliate retail electricity supplier of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), has forged new strategic partnerships with Mindanao-based food manufacturing, processing, and distribution companies.
The company entered into retail electricity supply agreements with Philippine Spring Water Resources, Inc. (PSWRI), the manufacturer of bottled water brand Nature’s Spring, and Cagayan Corn Products Corp. (CCPC), a company that produces cornstarch, corn grits, and other key feed ingredients.
“Vantage Energy sees tremendous growth potential in Mindanao. Our new strategic partnerships with local businesses not only mark the beginning of a more energized and dynamic region but also reflect the broader momentum of development beyond the capital,” said Vantage Energy president Ernesto Cabral in a statement Tuesday.
“With our goal to deliver a stable and dependable electricity supply, we are committed to providing comprehensive and innovative solutions that will help fuel Mindanao’s economic growth and sustainable development,” he said.
Vantage Energy brings Meralco’s industry leadership and expertise in providing stable, reliable power supply and exceptional service which will support the demand growth in the Mindanao market.
PEPSI-COLA PRODUCTS PHILIPPINES, INC. Annual Stockholders’ Meeting
TO: The Stockholders NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the annual meeting of stockholders of Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (the “Company”) will be conducted virtually through https://bit.ly/pcppiasm2025 on 27 June 2025, at 9:00 a.m.
The agenda of the meeting shall be as follows:
1. Call to Order
2. Certification of Notice and of Quorum
3. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on 28 June 2024
4. Report of the President and Chief Executive Officer
5. Presentation of the Audited Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024
6. Ratification of Acts of the Board of Directors and Management for 2024
7. Election of Directors for 2025 to 2026
8. Appointment of External Auditor for 2025
9. Other Matters
10. Adjournment
Only stockholders of record as of 06 June 2025 are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, this annual meeting.
Stockholders may (a) attend, participate, and vote via remote communications (on his or her own or through a proxy other than the Chairman); (b) vote in absentia (without attendance and participation); or (c) vote (without attendance and participation) by appointing the Chairman of the meeting as their proxy. Stockholders intending to attend, participate, and vote by remote communication, or to vote in absentia, should notify the Company by email to corporatesecretary@pcppi.com.ph from 06 June 2025, 9:00 a.m., to 20 June 2025, 5:00 p.m. Duly accomplished proxies shall be submitted on or before 20 June 2025, 5:00 p.m. to the Corporate Secretary c/o Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc., at 26 Floor, Filinvest Axis Tower Two Building, Northgate Cyberzone, Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City, or by email to corporatesecretary@pcppi.com.ph. Validation of proxies is set on 20 June 2025, 5:00 p.m. The detailed procedures for attending, participating, and voting in the meeting are set forth in the Information Statement, which will be posted on the website of the Company at https://www.pepsiphilippines.com/investor-relations-disclosures.
th
Shareholders may nominate individuals for election to the Board of Directors by emailing the Corporate Secretary at corporatesecretary@pcppi.com.ph with the name and profile of the individual no later than 29 May 2025, 5:00
Duly
3X20
5/F PBCOM Tower, 6795 Ayala Avenue corner V.A. Rufino Street, Makati City or via e-mail at CorporateSecretary@pbcom.com.ph not later than 5:00 p.m. on or before 27 May 2025.
The electronic copy of the Bank’s Information Statement, Management Report, SEC Form 17-A and other pertinent documents related to the 2025 Annual Stockholders Meeting shall be posted in PBCOM’s website at https://www. pbcom.com.ph/ and PSE Edge.
PBCOM IS NOT SOLICITING PROXIES.
By Othel V. Campos
ABOITIZ Foods said Tuesday it launched “Zoogle,” a digital platform that gives sales and technical teams seamless access to critical, standardized information—anytime, anywhere.
Co-developed by the Nutrition, Innovation & Technical Research (NITR) team and Business IT Solutions (BITS), the tool was built for Pilmico, Aboitiz Foods’ food and agribusiness arm in the Philippines.
“In the past, our teams often used their own frameworks and stored data in siloed formats through spreadsheets, printed materials, brochures, or different digital folders. Zoogle removes that fragmentation and ensures that everyone, across all locations, is working from one clear,
validated, and consistent knowledge base,” said product development manager Alvin John Oliveros. Zoogle consolidates farm protocols, feeding guides, product specs and performance calculators into a single, centralized platform, replacing previously fragmented and siloed systems. A standout feature is its offline capability, enabling technical support in rural or low-connectivity areas. This reduces delays, speeds up consultations and improves responsiveness to customer needs.
Aboitiz Foods’ digital transformation is under the Aboitiz Group’s “Great Transformation” initiative. By embedding digital tools into core processes, the company is driving agility, consistency and performance from farm to field.
By Jenniffer B. Austria
BANK of the Philippine Islands (BPI) set the interest rate for its planned P5-billion sustainability bonds at 5.85 percent per year.
The fixed-rate bonds, called BPI Supporting Inclusion, Nature and Growth Bonds or BPI SINAG Bonds, are peso-denominated and will mature in 1.5 years. The total amount offered is P5 billion, with an option to increase. This is the first tranche to be issued under BPI’s P200-billion bond and com-
Smart, JuanHand team up for easier prepaid load access
By Darwin G. Amojelar
SMART Communications Inc. said Tuesday it teamed up with leading digital lending platform JuanHand to offer one more way for every Juan to get Smart prepaid load.
The new touchpoint will enable Smart customers to conveniently topup their prepaid load using JuanHand credits or loans, enabling cash-challenged customers to continue enjoying Smart’s services.
“This collaboration with JuanHand is perfectly aligned with Smart’s drive to keep expanding access to our services. By integrating our prepaid load offerings with JuanHand’s digital lending platform, we are making connectivity more accessible to our subscribers,” said Smart first vice president Lloyd Manaloto.
Smart’s extensive nationwide coverage ensures reliable and high-quality mobile services for millions of Filipinos.
Smart said it continues to see growth in 5G devices amid continued network upgrades to expand 5G connectivity as of end-2024. Smart’s combined 5G/4G network covers around 97 percent of the population.
“We are excited to partner with Smart to provide our users with a convenient and cost-effective way to purchase prepaid load. This partnership underscores our commitment to enhancing the digital financial experience for Filipinos and supporting their connectivity needs,” said JuanHand chief executive Francisco Roberto Mauricio.
mercial paper program. Interest payments will be made every quarter.
The minimum investment is P500,000, with additional investments accepted in P100,000 increments.
BPI said it would use the funds to finance or refinance eligible projects under its Sustainable Funding Frame-
work. These projects will follow the ASEAN Sustainability Bond Standards.
The 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. by June 10, 2025.
“BPI is committed to creating value for its stakeholders, the environment, and the communities in which it operates,” the bank said.
“It strives to have sustainability at the core of its corporate strategies, ultimately achieving its business growth aspirations alongside its envi-
ronmental and social responsibility,”
BPI said.
The Securities and Exchange Commission in March confirmed that the BPI SINAG Bonds qualify as ASEAN Sustainability Bonds.
“This gives bondholders confidence that their investments will have clear and measurable sustainable impacts,” BPI said.
BPI Capital Corp. and Standard Chartered Bank are the joint lead arrangers and selling agents for the offer.
BPI raised $800 million from the issuance of 10- and 5- year Reg S se-
nior unsecured fixed-rate notes overseas in March 2025. 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. It also issued P33.7 billion in Sustainable, Environmental, and Equitable Development (SEED) Bonds in August, marking its largest thematic bond listing to date. The bonds carried an interest rate of 6.2 percent per annum and were oversubscribed by more than six times the initial target of P5 billion.
PHILIPPINE Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco called for stronger collaboration among gaming industry stakeholders to mitigate risks associated with problem gambling and addiction.
Speaking at the 2nd International Conference on Responsible Gambling and Addiction in Quezon City, Tengco stressed the need for a “whole-of-society approach” to curb the ill effects of problem gambling, including financial ruin.
“As regulators, policymakers, industry operators, healthcare professionals and academicians, we must not only share knowledge but also act as partners in understanding, prevent-
By Alena Mae S. Flores
MERALCO PowerGen Corp. is plan-
ning to put up a 20 to 40-megawatthour battery energy storage system in Carmen, Cebu next year to address the Visayas region’s regulating reserves requirement, a top executive said Tuesday.
“We’re looking at putting a battery in Cebu. We’re working with a company called AFRY to help us develop the optimum sizing as a standalone battery,” MGen president Emmanuel Rubio said at the sidelines of Schneider Electric Innovation Day Philippines 2025. Rubio said they expect to have the battery project operational by the
third quarter of 2026.
“One thing that we’re really excited about, I’m excited about, is in energy storage. The cost of energy storage is actually going down, and how the performance of energy storage actually improved through the years,” he said.
“Long-duration energy storage are actually now almost the norm when you look for energy storage to store your extra capacity of variable renewable energy when it’s not needed,” Rubio said.
Rubio said they are also in talks with Schneider Electric to look into predictive analytics at MGen’s coal plants which are under Global Business Power Corp.
ing and reducing the threats posed by problem gambling,” Tengco told conference attendees.
He said the event’s theme, “Empowering Pathways: Problem Gambling and Gaming Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery,” aligns with PAGCOR’s initiatives to promote responsible gaming.
Tengco reiterated PAGCOR’s commitment to mitigating gambling-related harm through key policies such as the automatic exclusion of minors, students and active government employees from gaming venues.
PAGCOR also has a responsible gaming program that allows self- or family-initiated player exclusion; regulation of gaming advertisements; and partnerships with rehabilitation centers for affected individuals and families, he said.
“Gaming has inherent social risks, but with the right safeguards and collaboration among all sectors, we can ensure the safety and well-being of our players,” Tengco said.
By Erika Sinaking
While
Pepper (14, Quezon City)
“NO, she’s immortal.” That’s Deborah’s go-to line every time her mom hints that Pepper, their 14-year-old cat, might be reaching her twilight years. Deborah, a 34-year-old multimedia designer and video editor, met Pepper during her college K-pop phase. “I was obsessed with Super Junior’s Heechul and his cat Heebum. So I kept bugging my mom to get me a cat,” she said. “My mom got Pepper from someone she visits for Bible study.” Named Sgt. Peppermint (yes, like the Beatles and mint), Pepper was originally mistaken for a male, but “she got pregnant before she even turned one. She gave birth the day before my thesis deliberations.” According to Deborah, it was a memorable moment with her cat, filled with stress and frustration as she kept thinking, “Why that time?” Despite never having consistent vet visits or vaccines, Pepper’s thriving. “Maybe it’s because she got spayed early. Or maybe because she’s a homebody,” she said. Pepper used to be a hyper kitten. Now, as she’s aged, she calmly lounges with Deborah’s senior parents. “Sometimes she just cries out of nowhere. I don’t know why,” Deborah said. “But she still eats well, drinks lots of water, and lets us pet her (with a time limit).”
Her advice to fellow cat owners? “Just treat them like your biological kids. Learn their language. Make harot when you can.”
Chuchi (14, Makati City)
NICOLE, an engineer and proud cat mom of five, describes her oldest cat, Chuchi, as “just there, living his life.”
Adopted at three months old in 2011, Nicole was just a teen when Chuchi entered her life, and her parents had no clue how to “properly” raise a cat. “He’s never been to a vet. Not even for vaccines. We couldn’t afford it.” She explained that Chuchi’s neutering was done at home by a vet they called in because he was too wild to be put in a cage.
But despite all that? “He’s just there. Living his life. Maybe it’s the love. Maybe that’s really it,” Nicole said.
Chuchi used to scale rooftops and disappear for days. “One time, he didn’t come home for a whole week. I thought we lost him. Then at 2 AM, I heard a meow at my parents’ window. I was crying while hugging him — he was covered in dust and dirt but it was okay, I was just so happy he was back.”
“He was half-indoor, half-outdoor for most of his life,” Nicole said.
Now 14, Chuchi lives a slower life, sunbathing in the mornings and occasionally playing with his younger siblings. “We’re more gentle with him now. We hug him every day, knowing we’re on borrowed time.”
Keisha (15, Quezon City)
KEISHA became part of Andrian’s life when she was just about two months old. His father found her meowing under a car during a downpour and brought her home.
“My dad picked her up and brought her home. She was just about two months old,” Andrian shared.
Since then, Keisha has been the queen of their household. “She used to love food from our table — sinigang pork and chicken. But now, she prefers wet and dry cat food. She rarely touches human food.”
Now working in a BPO, Andrian sees Keisha as more than a pet— she’s grown up with him.
“From kid problems to existential adult struggles, she’s been there. It’s like having a sister who can’t talk,” he said.
Keisha had a health scare last year, a ruptured anal sac requireing surgery. But she bounced back.
“Spoil them [cats],” Andrian advised. “Loving your cat is a luxury you give freely. And they give it back just by staying.”
What kept her going all these years? “I think it’s because she’s always
By Sasha Uy
“Beyond
menu. Earlier in the day, he had served as chairman of judges for the “Clash of Kawali” Mother’s Day Special 2025—a cu-
been an indoor cat. No dangerous adventures. And we feed her properly — nothing fancy, just cat-friendly food and lots of love,” he said.
Even as a senior, Keisha’s personality remains unchanged. “Still alert, still playful, still the same. Maybe she just lost interest in chasing insects.”
So Why Do Some Cats Live Longer?
Veterinary studies show longevity depends on many factors: Spaying or neutering can increase a cat’s lifespan by reducing risks of diseases and aggressive behavior.
Indoor-only cats generally live longer than outdoor cats. In the Philippines, indoor cats may live around 12 to 16 years, while outdoor or free-roaming cats often live only 5 to 8 years due to higher risks of accidents, infections, and parasites.
A balanced diet, proper hydration, and regular veterinary care help detect and manage illnesses early, improving lifespan.
Stress reduction, consistent routines, and emotional care also contribute to cats living longer, healthier lives.
However, limited access to veterinary services and financial constraints in the Philippines can affect these factors. Still, many cats in the country have been known to reach senior age through consistent care and a loving environment.
“Just make them feel loved and important… We’re all they have.” — Deborah
“They may be just a part of our lives, but to them, we are already their whole life.” — Nicole
“Bombard them with love. That’s what keeps them alive.” — Andrian
THE Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) has embarked on a landmark initiative aimed at integrating climate action and sustainability into its core programs, fostering a transformative partnership with UN Sasakawa Laureate and world-renowned science diplomat Glenn Banaguas. This collaboration seeks to harness the collective power of overseas Filipinos, enabling them to become key drivers in global environmental resilience and sustainability innovation. At the core of this strategic partnership is the Programs for Climate Action in the Diaspora, a bold initiative designed to engage Filipinos worldwide in climate resilience efforts. Recognizing the immense potential of the diaspora, this program empowers overseas Filipinos to contribute directly to sustainable development through participation in renewable energy projects that accelerate the shift to clean, affordable, and efficient energy solutions, community-driven reforestation programs that restore degraded lands, improve biodiversity conservation, and promote carbon sequestration; and climate-smart enterprises that integrate sustainable agriculture, eco-friendly innovations, and environmentally responsible business models into
the global market. By bridging scientific expertise, CFO ensures that Filipinos abroad do not only remain connected to their homeland but actively shape its future, contributing to national and global climate resilience. Another critical pillar of this collaboration focuses on education and capacity-building for CFO stakeholders, ensuring that climate science, resilience planning, and sustainability literacy become integral to dias-
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
Editor
NICKIE WANG,
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
Writer
JASPER VALDEZ,
By Jasper Valdez
SINGER-SONGWRITER
Kitchie
Nadal is reaching a new generation of listeners thanks to the digital revival of her early hits, and she’s bringing that energy to her first solo concert at the Araneta Coliseum on June 21.
The show, titled New Ground, is an important moment for Kitchie, whose introspective songwriting and rockleaning style earned her a devoted following in the early 2000s Known for anthems like “Same Ground” and “Huwag na Huwag Mong Sasabihin,” the OPM artist now finds herself back in the spotlight— this time alongside younger fans who are discovering her music for the first time.
“I’m thankful for the digital platforms,” Kitchie told Manila
By Nickie Wang
ZAIJIAN Jaranilla
is no longer the boy who played Santino, the breakout role he took on in 2009. In the upcoming Puregold digital series Si Sol at Si Luna , the former child star makes a career move that is both bold and deliberate.
Standard Entertainment. “Maybe that’s why our songs are included in the playlists of younger generations.”
The 44-year-old artist, who has lived in Spain for the past eight years, said the online resurgence of her work makes her feel both nostalgic and inspired.
“It’s so nice that they could relate to the songs,” she said. “Even the artists that are emerging now—when I listen to their songs, I can still relate to it.”
Despite taking a step back from the local music scene to focus on family life, Nadal said creativity never left her.
Living abroad and raising children has opened her up to new themes and perspectives, which she hopes to explore further through upcoming material.
“Even though I don’t get to perform a lot, I feel like I’m more driven to write
positive songs,” she said. “My kids keep my creative side alive and flowing.”
New Ground follows the success of Kitchie’s 20th anniversary concert last year, where she performed with other artists from her generation. The strong turnout and warm response, she said, gave her the push to take on a solo Araneta show.
“I feel like our audience is also growing,” she said. “That’s the driving force behind this concert.”
While Kitchie has played for Filipino communities abroad, she said nothing compares to performing for a local crowd.
“I miss the Filipino crowd,” she said. “It’s different when you perform in the Philippines. The crowd is just massive.”
Tickets for New Ground are now available via TicketNet outlets and online.
In the series, he plays Sol, a film student immersed in his thesis work who meets Luna, an older woman coping with grief, portrayed by The show’s trailer—now viral on Facebook and YouTube— features an intimate scene between the two actors that surprised many viewers and signaled Jaranilla’s transition to more mature dramatic roles. Directed by Dolly Dulu, the scene opens a new chapter in his career. At a press conference held in Pasay City, Zaijian admitted that filming the scene was a challenge.
“I was really restless when we were about to shoot that scene,” he admitted. “But at my age, I’ve already experienced falling in love, so I had something to draw from in playing the character. And I know how to kiss.” He also credited his management team, Star Magic, for their support in what is arguably his most emotionally demanding role to date. The series explores deeper themes like grief, emotional timing, and the space between connection and readiness, focusing on more than just romance.
Jane, for her part, offers a grounded performance that complements Zaijian’s emotional shift. She said the project allowed her to “stretch as an actress” and that working with Zaijian was a “safe and collaborative experience.” She praised the series’ willingness to tackle complex emotional themes that aren’t often addressed in Filipino digital dramas.
Following previous hits like My Plantito and Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile, Si Sol at Si Luna signals Puregold’s growing presence in digital entertainment. Senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad said the show’s value lies in its complexity: “It’s about love that isn’t easy. Sol’s story is about love during a period of change. Luna’s is about love in the middle of grief.” Si Sol at Si Luna premieres on the Puregold YouTube Channel on May 31, with new episodes released every Saturday.
AN ACTORS’ union is suing the makers of the Fortnite video game over the use of AI to create an interactive Darth Vader. Fortnite announced last week it had got permission from the family of James Earl Jones to make a chatty Star Wars villain based
empire has no need for fast food,” but would choose a Chicken Selects Meal with fries and a Coke. However, actors’ union SAG-AFTRA criticized the use of AI, saying it threatens performers’ jobs. The union, representing around 160,000 members, said Epic Games did not consult them about AI use and filed an unfair labor practice claim with the National Labor Relations Board.
Epic Games did not respond to inquiries, but James Earl Jones’s family expressed support for the project, hoping it would connect longtime and new fans.
Concerns over AI recreating actors’ likenesses have grown, contributing to Hollywood strikes in 2023 and a video game actors’ strike in July 2024. AFP
IHAVE spent more than eight years of my working life within the historic walls of Intramuros, and yet the Walled City of Manila never ceases to surprise me. Every alleyway, every weathered façade, and every quiet corner breathes history and seems to whisper a new story—one I hadn’t heard before.
Just when one thinks they have seen it all, a hidden restaurant, a newly restored building, or a cultural event reveals another layer. Intramuros is a living museum that invites people to explore, reflect, and rediscover. It’s a place where the past lingers, interweaving with the
contemporary, constantly revealing hidden layers to those who take the time to look.
This year, the Intramuros Administration (IA) celebrated its 46th founding anniversary with the launch of the very first Intramuros Summer Festival, a full-day celebration of Filipino culture, creativity, and community spirit.
From sunrise to evening, the cobbled streets and centuries-old walls of Intramuros became a backdrop to a vibrant, living showcase of everything Filipino, with the main events unfolding at Plaza Moriones in Fort Santiago.
Fitness coaches Jim and Toni Saret led a Zumba session in the morning, followed by a colorful parade featuring student performers from Intramuros-based schools parading in traditional and creative costumes.
Centro de Turismo Intramuros hosted storytelling sessions for children, led by Jeralyn “Ate Posh” Develos of Ang Pinoy Storytellers, who brought Filipino folklore and values to life.
Meanwhile, blurring the line between past and present, Casa Manila transformed into a living museum, with reenactors from IA and Historia Viviente Manila staging scenes from the Spanish colonial era.
de Turismo Intramuros. And all for just P350, value for money for such a rich cultural experience. With a shared goal to promote Filipino national identity, culture, and heritage, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and IA collaborate to bring back Intramuros Evenings, a flagship program that features the best of Philippine artists and performing groups.
“Together with the CCP, we are reviving that flagship program with the staging of four Intramuros Evenings this year as part of our commitment to elevate Intramuros as a premier cultural and touristic destination,” said Rhea Cy, head of the Tourism Promotions Division of the Intramuros Administration.
In the late 1990s, Intramuros regularly presented cultural performances and curated the Intramuros Evenings. In 2023, IA revived the program with the re-staging of CCP Out-Of-The-Box (OTB) Series: Isang Gabi ng Sarsuwela at the Baluarte de San Diego. It was followed by Ang Kasal ni Figaro, another CCP OTB production.
“Intramuros Evenings will delight the community once again with more CCP productions as we continue to collaborate with the Intramuros Administration to preserve what is inherently Filipino and celebrate the best of the best in performing arts through this program,” said CCP VP-artistic director Dennis N. Marasigan
The CCP supports and celebrates IA’s 46th year of stewardship, preservation, and vibrant promotion of the country’s famous walled city. The long-standing partnership between the two institutions will surely enrich the cultural landscape of Intramuros and the Philippines.
Capping the day’s celebration, the Sinag Concert showcased music top-billed by Itchyworms, along with Over October, Earl Agustin, and was hosted by Sephy Francisco and Boobay
Year-long commitment to cultural tourism
IA saw the festival not just as a one-off event but as the start of an annual tradition that breathes new life into the historic district. In line with this, IA launched the Intramuros Passport, a new initiative to promote cultural tourism.
The CCP and IA formalized their partnership during the press launch of IA’s Intramuros Summer Festival and Intramuros Passport, with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement to bring more exciting cultural shows to Intramuros.
Both symbolic and practical, the Intramuros Passport encourages exploration while promoting heritage preservation. It grants holders access to five major historical landmarks: Fort Santiago, Baluarte de San Diego, Casa Manila, Museo de Intramuros, and the Centro
For the latest updates on CCP productions under Intramuros Evenings, follow the CCP official social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, and visit the CCP website (www. culturalcenter.gov. ph) for tickets and other inquiries.
IN THE late 20th century, several nations of the Global South leaned towards militarybacked authoritarianism, and one of the most disturbing words emerged. The alarming part was that, though the word is Spanish, it crossed cultures because it became a shared systemic political violence of silencing state enemies and critics.
The word is “desaparecidos,” or enforced disappearances, or simply, the disappeared. The word’s consequences are played out in the Oscar-winning Brazilian film I’m Still Here (2024, directed by Walter Salles). In the 1970s, Brazil—just like many fragile democracies in South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia—saw military dictatorships demonize perceived enemies as communists out to destabilize and destroy their nations.
I’m Still Here is based on the true story of the kidnapping of Brazilian lawmaker Rubens Pavia and how this chipped away at the family. His wife, Eunice Pavia, portrayed by the magnificent Fernanda Torres, is the resolute center that held the family together in dignity as she combated the system while coming to terms with this monumental tragedy.
As much as I love Mickey Madison in Anora, Fernanda Torres was robbed of the Oscar for Best Actress. Torres’ portrayal is with strong, dignified, upright steeliness. She does have some emotional turns, but none of them slide into an unhinged telenovela flash and flourish. This is highly respectful of a family trauma— not to slide into a melodramatic mess.
One of the most powerful moments in the film is when a photojournalist insists that the Pavia family look somber for the camera. The
matriarch and the children laugh this off. Mirth is their prerogative—to twit cheap media expectations and soldier on with defiance through familial joy, which is the basic directive of this movie.
The movie does not pander with open duress, but it always leads the viewers to a series of Damocles swords hovering above the family. The psychological torture of the uncertainty is the cruelty behind the enforced disappearances. Are they still alive? When will they come home? What happens now?
The ones left behind are left dangling. Instead of scenes of deep wails and gnashing of teeth, the tragedy is even more pronounced in everyday acts like counting money or even noticing a fraying apron.
The biggest tragedy of I’m Still Here is not just that it is based on a true story, but the disappearances persist well into this century—and even in places where one thought democracy was strong.
In the world’s wealthiest and most powerful democracy, the United States, though not yet officially under martial law, disappearances are now the policy of Trump. Movies like I’m Still Here should be a cautionary tale for all of us to learn from history and protect our democracy.
Presence is the unsung hero for democracy— when you have claimed your place and registered your thoughts visually and audibly, regardless of odds. Declaring yourself to be still here is a defiance against disappearance.
You may reach Chong Ardivilla at kartunistatonto@gmail.com or chonggo.bsky.
social
THE Mind Museum in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig has launched “Cool Learning Adventures,” a school break program featuring science and art activities for students and families.
Until June 29, a four-person pass to the museum is priced at P2,300. BGC residents and workers may enter for P500 with valid proof of residency or employment. Tickets are available
online or at the museum.
Activities include “Why does the Philippines have only 2 seasons?”—a science demonstration on local climate patterns by the museum’s resident scientists, held from Friday to Sunday at 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m.
Visitors may also join
in May, between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., and again from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Mind Museum, a project of the Bonifacio Art Foundation Inc., extends the experience online through digital content aimed at promoting
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
Very Wang Nickie Wang
PALM Grill, a restaurant known for heirloom recipes rooted in Southern Philippine culinary traditions, began eight years ago with a clear purpose—to bring Tausug cuisine to the forefront and give Mindanao flavors the space they’ve long deserved in Luzon. Today, that purpose remains firmly in place.
In its recent anniversary celebration, the restaurant became a venue for cultural homecoming—guests were greeted by the rhythmic grace of a singkil performance, plates of beloved southern dishes, and two new creations that deepened the story. One, called “Amor Del Mar,” created with Montaño Seafood Sauce, pays tribute to the Zamboanga Peninsula. The second dish, introduced especially for the occasion, joins a menu that has long told stories of the region’s flavors.
Chef Miguel “Miggy” Cabel Moreno, the founder of the restaurant, spoke about the milestone of the restaurant, including staying open throughout the pandemic.
“When the pandemic came, admittedly we were all shaken, but we never closed— not once. Except on dates that the government mandated,” he said. “We showed up for our team, for our mission, to provide our customers a taste of home.”
“Opening a restaurant serving southern flavors in Luzon was a challenge. Some said it wouldn’t last. But here we are, alive, seasoned, and expanding,” he carried on.
After welcoming his guests to the restaurant’s branch on Tomas Morato, he shared his vision: “Mindanao deserves to be loved and remembered. This is why we continue to push forward.”
Chef Miggy often repeats a belief that continues to guide everything they do: “Mindanao is not an afterthought. It never was, and it never will be.”
The anniversary celebration also introduced Ang Kwento Ni Putli Mandi , a new children’s book co-written by Chef Miggy and broadcast journalist Nelson Canlas. It follows Si Mikoy, Ang Batang Tausug , a title that traveled from local shelves to international book fairs in Bologna, Dubai, and soon, Frankfurt.
“This is not just a bedtime story,” Chef Miggy said. “It’s a swirl of courage, wonder, mythical creatures, and the chewy coconut treat called putli mandi .” The book is set to launch this August, in time for Buwan ng Wika.
Nelson Canlas, who also hosted the event, shared the motivation behind writing the book.
“Whenever I start the book reading sessions in schools, I ask students three questions: ‘Do you know where Mindanao is?’ Many raise their hands. ‘Do you know where Jolo is?’ Fewer respond. ‘Do you know who the Tausug are?’ No hands go up. That silence says a lot,” he said.
“It has been our life mission to introduce Tausug cuisine and culture and to put it back on the map,” he added.
Since 2017, Palm Grill has remained the only Luzon-based restaurant accredited by the Department of Tourism for serving authentic cuisine from Southern Mindanao. It has since become a platform that serves culture, family history, and a vision for what Filipino food can truly represent.
LARA Latosa’s work offers a rare and intimate connection to one of nature’s most powerful forces— the ocean. Her latest collection, Bayside , currently on display at Conrad Manila as part of the Of Art and Wine series, is a moving tribute to the sea’s vibrant energy, delicate ecosystems, and the emotional tides we all experience.
Latosa’s art is deeply shaped by her own experiences. As an experienced freediver and passionate environmental advocate, she feels the ocean in her heart with every wave and current. Her brush captures the movement of waves, the soft light under the water, and the constant flow of life beneath the surface. Her paintings show the beauty of nature while sharing stories of strength and healing, using bright colors and flowing shapes that reflect the energy of the ocean.
“My art is a love letter to the ocean,” Latosa explains. For her,
the ocean is both sanctuary and inspiration, a force that reflects the complexity of life itself. Each wave in her paintings expresses the passion she holds for water and her ongoing journey with mental wellness—reminders that, like the sea, life is ephemeral yet powerful.
The Bayside exhibit at Conrad Manila invites viewers to immerse themselves in this emotional landscape. The venue’s location along Manila Bay perfectly complements Latosa’s work, connecting art with the environment.
The collaboration with Art Lounge Manila and the thoughtful curation highlight a shared commitment to marine conservation, making the exhibit both an aesthetic experience and a call for awareness. What makes Latosa’s work especially compelling is its ability to go beyond traditional marine imagery. Rather than literal depictions, her abstract waves pulse
offering a multisensory journey through color, form, and meaning. The exhibit officially opened with notable guests, including Cathy Nepomuceno ; vice president of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation; Susanne Tiausas managing director of Art Lounge
Camille Genuino board treasurer of Angat Buhay; and Dr. Deo Florence Onda, associate professor and associate dean for Research, Innovation, Development, and Enterprise, Marine Science Institute University of the Philippines Diliman. The Bayside collection invites visitors to a reflective, multisensory experience until July 12 at Gallery C, located on the 3rd level of Conrad Manila. Priced at P3,288++, the set for two features oceanthemed sweets and savories, paired with coffee or tea. Available daily from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. For inquiries and reservations, call +632 8833 9999 or email Conrad. Manila.info@ conradhotels.com.