Teves arrested in East Timor; DOJ ready to get custody
“At
By Pot Chavez
yet clear whether Teves “would simply be deported for being an undocumented foreigner or extradited forthwith pursuant to our pending application.”
Axl said.
The Department of Justice said it is not
The Department of Justice, however, is ready to arrange the transfer of custody by the “most expeditious means” once the issue has been clarified, the DOJ said.
By Othel Campos
P20/k rice sustainable, says PBBM
PRESIDENT
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday dismissed critics claiming his administration’s project of selling rice at P20 per kilo is unsustainable, assuring the public it will be sustained until 2028.
“Watch me sustain it,” Mr. Marcos said in a press conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia late Tuesday evening.
“And then, we’ll talk in May of 2028, about whether it was continued or not. We found a way. We found a way to do it. We’re making deals with different countries, so the price can be finalized without changing now and then. Whatever happens down the road, we were able to do it now. We didn’t have it before. Now we do.”
By Charles Dantes and Maricel V. Cruz
“There are many other surveys. Let’s not base everything on just one,” he told reporters when asked about the lackluster results. The latest Pulse Asia poll showed Mr. Marcos trailing behind both Vice President Sara Duterte and former President Rodrigo Duterte in trust ratings. PBBM brushes aside latest survey showing popularity dip
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said yesterday that he was undisturbed by a recent Pulse Asia survey showing a decline in his trust rating, and that it should not be taken as the sole measure of public sentiment.
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. yesterday said that reconciliation with the Dutertes is still possible, but made it clear that this cannot happen if conditions are set in advance.
“No, no, no, no, no. That’s not how reconciliation works. You don’t put conditions to reconcile,” the chief executive told reporters seeking clarification on his statement about being open to mending fences with the political clan from Davao.
“If you’re sincere, let’s sit down and talk. What’s the real issue? How did this happen? Let’s remove the problem,”
“At the same time, on the other hand, we are ensuring that the purchasing price for farmers is good so they can have a decent livelihood. And the difference there – that’s what the government is paying for,” he added.
On Wednesday, Mr. Marcos said the government is studying the implementation of a “floor price” for rice to ensure that farmers earn enough and are prepared for the next
ARMED Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Wednesday gave assurance there will be no military coup d’etat under his leadership.
Brawner reaffirmed the military’s “unwavering commitment” to the Constitution and the chain of command.
“As long as I serve as Chief of Staff, no coup shall happen. Not on my watch. We will not be shaken by rumor, nor outmaneuvered by noise,” Brawner said in a statement in response to
By Joel Zurbano
TAKING STOCK. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., together with Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. inspects rice stocks in an NFA warehouse in San Ildefonso, Bulacan. Inset shows the President in a dialogue with Bulacan farmers. Jay Morales
PBBM asks GOCC chiefs to resign
By Othel V. Campos
PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed officials of government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs) to submit their courtesy resignations, the Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) announced in a statement yesterday.
In an official notice to GOCCs dated May 26, 2025, the GCG urged all agency heads to tender their resignations as part of the President’s broader initiative
to evaluate the performance of key government officials.
The move aims to ensure that the administration remains “dynamic, ac-
countable, and responsive” to the evolving needs and expectations of the Filipino people.
According to the memorandum such corporations are considered government agencies under Section 2(4) of the Administrative Code of 1987 and Section 3(k) of Republic Act No. 10149, or the GOCC Governance Act of 2011.
Under these laws, GOCCs are governed by boards whose members represent the State and are accountable for the corporations’ overall governance and operations.
The chairperson of a GOCC board is legally recognized as the “Head of Agency,” while the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), who may hold titles such as President, General Manager, or Administrator, is responsible for managing daily operations.
According to the GCG, all non-ex officio chairpersons, CEOs, and appointive directors or trustees of GOCC governing boards are required to submit their courtesy resignations to the President via the Office of the Executive Secretary.
Alternative Routes Recommended by the MMDA:
Northbound:
reach Arnaiz Avenue, Buendia Avenue or C-2 Road/ Quirino Avenue: all headed to Roxas Boulevard. They could take a left going to SLEX/ Magallanes to reach the NAIA Expressway roads.
From EDSA, motorists could take a left at Tramo flyover to get to the NAIA Expressway roads.
Motorists from EDSA could take a right at Taft Avenue if they are going to Roxas Boulevard via Arnaiz, Buendia, C-2/ Quirino.
The road rehabilitation, to be carried out by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), is in preparation for the Philippines’ hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in 2026.
To ease traffic congestion during the repairs, the MMDA earlier introduced an odd-even number coding scheme on EDSA. A month-long dry run for the scheme is set to begin on June 16, with a possible extension depending on traffic conditions. Meanwhile, the MMDA clarified that vehicles yielding to emergency services like ambulances and fire trucks will not be penalized under the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP).
“Motorists should give way to emergency vehicles like ambulances and fire trucks. Vehicles in this situation will not receive a citation ticket,” the MMDA said in a statement.
The agency also noted that violations captured on CCTV are not automatically issued tickets. “The photos and footage undergo manual review and validation as per the NCAP process,” it added.
1. Macapagal Avenue: Vehicles coming from Macapagal Avenue should take the NAIA Expressway to Terminal 3, then proceed to Andrews Avenue, Sales Road, and Magallanes. From there, exit at Terminal 3 to Nicholes, then East Service Road, leading to C-5 Road. From C-5 Road, vehicles can either take Kalayaan Avenue to Shaw Boulevard or Lanuza to Julia Vargas Avenue.
2. Roxas Boulevard: Drivers coming from Roxas Boulevard are advised to go to Macapagal Avenue and follow the same alternative route mentioned above. They will travel through C-5, either heading towards Kalayaan and Shaw or Lanuza and Julia Vargas. Additionally, motorists from Roxas can take Arnaiz and Buendia before returning to EDSA.
3. C-2 Road/Quirino: Drivers from C-2 Road or Quirino heading to the Shaw area can use Pedro Gil. From Shaw, they can also access Ortigas Avenue.
4. Kalayaan: Vehicles coming from EDSA can take Kalayaan Avenue to reach Shaw and Julia Vargas. Northbound vehicles on Kalayaan Avenue can also use C-5 Road to access Lanuza, Julia Vargas, and Ortigas Avenue.
5. Pioneer Road: From EDSA, vehicles can turn right onto Pioneer Street and head to Shaw Boulevard, exiting either through Kalentong-EDSA, San Miguel Avenue, or Julia Vargas Avenue.
Southbound:
1. Skyway Stage 3: Vehicles headed south can use Skyway Stage 3 for access to Quezon Avenue, E. Rodriguez, Plaza Azul, Buendia, Magallanes, and various NAIA Expressway
P20/k...
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In a dialogue with farmers during his visit at the National Food Authority warehouse in San Ildefonso, Bulacan, the President emphasized the need to strike a balance between keeping rice affordable for consumers and making sure that farmers are not at a disadvantage when selling their produce.
exits, including Andrews Avenue, Terminal 3, Tramo, Terminal 1/2, Coastal Road/CAVITEX, Entertainment City/New Seaside Drive, and Macapagal Boulevard.
2. Roosevelt Avenue: Southbound vehicles on Roosevelt Avenue can access Quezon Avenue via Skyway Stage 3 if heading to the previously mentioned routes.
3. West Avenue: Vehicles from West Avenue are similarly advised to take Quezon Avenue via Skyway Stage 3 for the roads mentioned above.
4. Congressional Avenue/C-5: Motorists coming from Congressional Avenue or C-5 should make a U-turn at the QC Academy U-turn slot to Aurora Boulevard, Col. Bonny Serrano, Ortigas Avenue, Shaw Boulevard, Kalayaan Avenue, and SLEX/Magallanes. From C-5, they can take the East Service Road to access the NAIA Expressway exits.
5. Kamuning Road: Vehicles coming from Kamuning can use the E. Rodriguez entry/exit on Skyway Stage 3 if heading to Plaza Azul, Buendia, Magallanes, or NAIA Expressway exits.
6. Aurora Boulevard: Motorists coming from EDSA can turn right onto Aurora and use C-2 Road or Quirino Avenue. Alternatively, they may opt for the South Super Highway. A left turn from EDSA allows access to C-5 Road, leading to Col. Bonny Serrano, Ortigas Avenue, Shaw Boulevard, Kalayaan Avenue, SLEX/Magallanes, and NAIA Expressway routes.
7. Ortigas Avenue: From EDSA, drivers turning right onto Ortigas can reach Shaw Boulevard via Wilson Street. They can then use Pedro Gil and C-2/Quirino Avenue or
P20 per kilogram rice under the “Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na” program starting in June.
DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said they have been provided with the official list of the program’s beneficiaries nationwide.
“The initial agreement was to give them the chance to buy 10 kilograms of rice per month the) minimum wage earners,” he said.
turn left at Ortigas and follow C-5 Road to Shaw, Kalayaan, or SLEX/Magallanes. From C-5, vehicles can take the East Service Road to Sales, leading to NAIA Expressway exits.
8. Shaw Boulevard: Motorists coming from EDSA can turn right onto Shaw and use Pedro Gil and C-2/Quirino Avenue. If they turn left, they can take C-5 Road to Kalayaan Avenue and SLEX/Magallanes. Like the Ortigas route, they can use the East Service Road to get to NAIA Expressway exits.
9. JP Rizal: Drivers can turn right onto JP Rizal from EDSA and head to Buendia Avenue to Roxas Boulevard (if coming from Makati Avenue). They may also access NAIA Expressway exits from JP Rizal. If coming from EDSA, they can also turn left on JP Rizal, traverse Kalayaan Avenue to C-5 Road, and from there to SLEX/ Magallanes. Again, the East Service Road is available for reaching NAIA routes.
10. Ayala Avenue: Southbound motorists from Ayala Avenue can use the South Super Highway or Arnaiz Avenue to Roxas Boulevard.
11. South Super Highway: From EDSA, drivers can turn right on South Super Highway to reach Arnaiz Avenue, Buendia Avenue, or C-2 Road/Quirino Avenue—all leading to Roxas Boulevard. Alternatively, they can turn left to access SLEX/Magallanes and proceed to NAIA Expressway exits.
12. Tramo: From EDSA, motorists can turn left at the Tramo flyover to reach NAIA Expressway roads.
13. Taft Avenue: Motorists from EDSA can turn right onto Taft Avenue to reach Roxas Boulevard via Arnaiz, Buendia, or C-2 Road/Quirino Avenue.
ment units in Cebu are also rolling out the said program to the members of the vulnerable sector, including the members of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and solo parents.
“While we welcome the recent pronouncements from Timor-Leste indicating a renewed position that Mr. Teves should not remain in their territory, we await their action,” it added.
In a separate interview with Manila Standard, lawyer Ferdinand Topacio said Teves is currently being detained at the Ministry of the Interior together with his Timor Leste legal counsel, Dr. Joao Serra.
“The lawyer was manhandled by the said police,” Topacio said. Teves is facing multiple murder cases before the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 51 in relation to the killing of slain Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo and several others. Later, he applied for political asylum in Timor Leste but was eventually placed under house arrest.
In March, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said Teves’ passport has been cancelled following the designation of the former lawmaker as a terrorist by the Anti-Terrorism Council.
Timor Leste president José RamosHorta on Tuesday said in a press briefing his country does not want Teves to stay any longer for reasons of national interest.
“Regardless of all legal and constitutional considerations, there is one issue that all countries in the world observe, the national interest. The national interest is what imposes, what determines and, in this case, we are not interested in someone of that nature, to prevent East Timor from becoming a paradise for all those who commit crimes in the region,” Ramos-Horta said.
Meanwhile, Negros Oriental congresswoman-elect Janice Degamo, the widow of the slain governor, said Teves’ arrest is “a significant step toward justice.”
“Let this serve as a reminder that no one is above the law. The arrest of Arnie Teves reaffirms the strength of international cooperation and our collective pursuit of justice,” she said in a separate statement.
“We now look forward to the proper legal proceedings that will bring lasting peace to our province and long overdue justice for my beloved Roel and the hundreds of others who suffered at the hands of the Teves Terrorist Group.”
Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said the PNP is ready to assist the DOJ and secure Teves once he is sent back to the country.
“We have security escorts here. As I said, let us prepare the custodial facility in case the DOJ needs it,” Marbil told reporters in a chance interview at Camp Crame.
he added.
To recall, Senator Bong Go, a longtime ally of former President Rodrigo Duterte, said Mr. Marcos should first work towards the repatriation of the detained leader before the process of reconciliation can begin. However, the incumbent President rejected that approach outright, saying it would only lead to further conflict.
“If you say, ‘I won’t talk unless you give me this, this, this,’ then it’s over before it even begins. That’s not reconciliation. That’s not even negotiation. That’s just making demands,” he said.
When asked how far he would be willing to go to repair the strained relationship, Mr. Marcos said he’s open to listening to anything, as long as it comes from a place of sincerity.
“If I truly want reconciliation, I’ll listen to whatever they say,” he said.
“If it’s something I can fix, then I’ll fix it — just so this can end. I don’t want enemies,” Mr. Marcos added.
Meanwhile, the President reiterated that he had no role in the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, insisting that he does not support the move.
“How many times do I have to say that? I didn’t want impeachment,” Mr. Marcos told reporters during a media interview.
“All my allies in Congress didn’t file the complaint,” he added.
The president’s comments came in response to a question referencing his earlier remarks on his podcast, where he said the public is “tired of politics.”
Furthermore, Mr. Marcos rejected the notion that the upcoming impeachment trial would signal renewed political turmoil.
“I don’t think so,” he simply said.
He said the proposed measure is patterned after the floor pricing system for tobacco in his home province of Ilocos Norte.
“We’re studying it. We’re copying what we did with tobacco in Ilocos, which has a floor price so the price never drops below that,” Mr. Marcos said.
For its part, the Department of Agriculture said at least 120,000 minimum wage earners would benefit from the
The 10-kg. purchase limit is equivalent to 1.2 million kg. volume allocation each month.
In terms of possible transport costs for the P20/kg rice sale, de Mesa said the Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) will utilize P500 million worth of allocated funds for logistics costs.
To date, the P20/kilo rice is available in 38 Kadiwa ng Pangulo sites in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and Mimaropa, while 16 local govern-
The first phase of the program intends to cover areas in Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental; Samar, Eastern Samar, and Northern Samar; Southern Leyte and Leyte; and Bohol, Antique, Cebu, Iloilo, Capiz Biliran; Guimaras, Siquijor, Aklan and Mindoro.
Phase 2 will be implemented starting in July in Zamboanga del Norte, Basilan, Cotabato City, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao, Davao Oriental, and Sorsogon; while the third and final phase will cover Sultan Kudarat, Lanao del Norte, Catanduanes, Agusan del Sur, Sarangani and Dinagat Islands.
said the offer was made to staff who have worked for 10 or more years, to employees in the video department and to all members of the copy and sports copy desks.
The Voluntary Separation Program offers are part of an effort “aimed at reshaping and modernizing the newsroom for the current environment,” wrote Murray.
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emerging claims of internal unrest within the AFP.
He underscored the military’s professionalism and ongoing pursuit of reform, accountability, and internal discipline.
“Let me reassure our countrymen that the AFP remains strong, professional, and firmly loyal to the chain of command. We are a disciplined institu-
tion, grounded in respect for the Constitution, civilian authority, and the rule of law,” Brawner stressed.
“I have full confidence in the integrity, patriotism, and professionalism of the men and women of the military. Isolated grievances do not define the AFP—our collective commitment to service does,” he added.
Brawner also addressed those who continued to sow discord and disinformation, reminding them of the broader consequences of undermining “institutions built to serve and protect the public.”
He pointed out that while Pulse Asia is one source of public opinion, it’s important to understand the context and methodology behind each poll before concluding.
“To those who persist in creating instability, I offer this not as a rebuke, but as a reminder. Do not sow doubt among the very ranks that safeguard our democracy. Do not attempt to influence or mislead soldiers who serve quietly, honorably, and with steadfast loyalty to our Constitution and our country. Frustration is not a license to target your protectors. Attacking the Armed Forces with baseless narratives only threatens to weaken an institution that exists to defend us all,” he emphasized.
“We all saw the survey results for the senatorial elections. Surprise! No. 2 Sen. [Bam] Aquino, and we also have Sen. [Kiko] Pangilinan among others,” he pointed out.
“Like the rest of our industry, we are adapting to changing habits and new technologies that are transforming news experiences,” he pointed out. Murray said when it comes to copy editing, “we aim in the coming months to combine operations to one desk that will be part of the central news hub and ultimately will serve our digital products full-time.”
In the case of the video team, he said, the goal is to “place much greater emphasis on developing repeatable franchises and more personality driven formats for YouTube, other social media channels and off-platform more broadly, while embedding some video producers and facilitators in the core newsroom to help all our journalists and artists produce more video for our products.” VCGalvez
It also pointed to a continuing downward trend in the president’s numbers. When asked whether he plans to address the decline, the chief executive urged caution in interpreting survey data.
“Know your source,” he said.
“Imperfect information makes you make imperfect decisions. The more perfect your information, the more perfect your decision will be,” Mr. Marcos added.
Meanwhile, a member of the House prosecution panel in the upcoming impeachment trial of the Vice President played down the latest Pulse Asia survey, saying public opinion should not dictate the course of a constitutional process.
“About the prosecution, I can’t speak for everyone else, but we have to take it with a grain of salt,” 1-RIDER Party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez told the newsmen.
The Pulse Asia “Pulso ng Bayan” survey, conducted from May 6 to 9 among 1,200 registered voters, found that 50 percent of respondents disagreed with the filing of the impeachment complaint, 28 percent agreed, and 21 percent were undecided.
“Before the elections, I did believe in surveys, but after the election, we saw the results—that’s when we believe oth-
erwise,” Gutierrez said. Likewise, members of the Makabayan Bloc attributed the supposed unpopularity of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest and prosecution to the massive fake news and disinformation campaign orchestrated by Duterte’s machinery. House outgoing Deputy Minority Leader France Castro and Rep.-elect Antonio Tinio of ACT Teachers Party-list called for a concerted effort to counter falsehoods and expose the truth about Duterte’s alleged crimes against the Filipino people.
Task force bars entry to Kanlaon danger zone as volcano heats up
By Rex Espiritu
THE Regional Task Force Kanlaon on Tuesday announced an indefinite suspension of entry into the 6-kilometer extended danger zone around Mt. Kanlaon in northern Negros, following increased volcanic activity that may signal the possibility of an eruption.
Effective Wednesday, the suspension will be enforced daily between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. and will remain in place until further notice. According to the task force, the suspension is due to the “parameters that may be precursors to sudden eruptions” based on previous experiences.
It cited the Kanlaon Volcano Bulletin from 5 a.m. on Monday to 5 a.m. on Tuesday, which reported 31 recorded volcanic earthquakes with sulfur dioxide flux of 1,020 tonnes per day on May 26, with a 700-meter plume, moderate continuous degassing, and drifting northwest.
Seth Cabanas Bariga, the assistant information officer for the Incident Command System of Canlaon City, said in an interview that the suspension would impact over 2,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs). He likewise reported that a total of 2,450 individuals, comprising 779 families, are currently sheltered in seven evacuation camps.
Bariga said they are given day passes when they visit their homes and farms and tend to their livestock.
MAP lauds Loyzaga’s exemplary tenure at DENR
By Othel Campos
THE Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) has formally expressed its gratitude to secretary Maria Antonia “Toni” Yulo-Loyzaga for her exemplary tenure at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
MAP praised her dedication to weaving scientific research, interagency cooperation and international partnerships into the government’s en-
vironmental strategy.
“We thank Sec. Loyzaga for doing a very good job in pursuing the DENR mandate of protecting, conserving, and managing our environment and natural resources for the present and future generations; and for spearheading many significant initiatives, like governance and accountability in permit processes, and private sector involvement in reforestation,” the groip said in a statement.
MAP also highlighted two landmark memoranda of understanding signed
under Yulo-Loyzaga’s leadership. On July 12, 2024, MAP and the DENR joined forces to advance the department’s Top Ten Environment Priorities, which include clean air, solid waste management, an enhanced national greening program, Manila Bay cleanup, anti-illegal logging measures, clean water initiatives, geo-hazards and responsible mining assessments, biodiversity conservation, coastal and marine ecosystem development, and improved land administration.
Bohol-Panglao airport upgrade to boost tourism
By Minerva Newman
PANGLAO, Bohol—The BoholPanglao International Airport’s (BPIA) planned capacity upgrade and immediate takeover by Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc. (AIC) are factors seen to boost the local and regional tourism industry and overall economy.
“The modernization of BPIA is not just about upgrading infrastructure—it’s about enabling the continued rise of Bohol as a vibrant tourism and economic hub in the Visayas. We are proud to support the province’s aspirations through transformative infrastructure ecosystems such as BPIA,” AIC president and chief executive officer Cosette Canilao said.
AIC, as the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, will formally take over BPIA operations in June under a 30-year concession agreement. Upon turnover, BPIA will join the award-winning Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu and Laguindingan International Airport in Misamis Oriental as members of AIC’s growing aviation portfolio. AIC is set to implement a P4.53billion investment plan that includes the expansion of BPIA’s passenger terminal building, installation of modern aviation systems, and enhancements to airside and landside facilities.
Within one to two years of takeover, AIC aims to boost BPIA’s current capacity from 2 million to 2.5 million passengers annually, with future expansions pushing capacity to 3.9 million passengers per year by 2030.
FISHERFOLKS PROTEST. Members of Philippine Movement for Climate Justice(PMCJ), along with fisherfolk and allied groups, announce a protest action on Fisherfolks Day on May 31 to protest against the grant to the commercial fishing industry the right to operate in coastal areas up to 10.1 kilometers from shore. Manny Palmero
PH addresses US travel advisory
By Maricel V. Cruz
THE Philippine embassy in Washington D.C. is working to address concerns over a recent United States travel advisory that warned Americans against visiting the Philippines due to “crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.”
IN BRIEF
Ejercito backs NCAP, urges safeguards
SENATOR JV Ejercito on Wednesday expressed his support for reinstating the No Contact Apprehension Program (NCAP), citing its potential to improve road discipline without compromising motorists’ rights.
“The most common violations recorded were disobedience to traffic signs and illegal use of the busway,” Ejercito said. He emphasized that these reflect a broader need for more disciplined road behavior in urban areas like Metro Manila.
He called on the Department of Transportation, the MMDA, and DPWH to ensure the program’s implementation is fair and respectful of public rights.
“It should guide motorists, not penalize them unfairly,” he noted.
Ejercito also proposed improving road infrastructure and standardizing traffic signs. He urged alignment between local and national rules on fines, along with stronger public education efforts for road users. Ram Superable
Rodriguez: DFA chief does not deserve removal
CAGAYAN de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to retain Secretary Enrique Manalo at the Department of Foreign Affairs, saying Manalo is “the most undeserving” of being replaced in the Cabinet. Rodriguez praised Manalo’s clear vision and work in protecting Philippine sovereignty, especially in relation to the West Philippine Sea. He credited Manalo for pushing the Maritime Zone and Archipelagic Sea Lanes laws, both of which Rodriguez co-authored.
He also highlighted Manalo’s success in establishing international security partnerships and leading the DFA with professionalism, integrity, and efficiency as a career diplomat.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said Manalo would be reassigned as the country’s permanent representative to the United Nations, replacing Antonio Lagdameo Sr., who is retiring on July 31. DFA Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro is set to replace Manalo. Maricel V. Cruz
Filipino cadets graduate from U.S. Naval Academy
TWO Filipino cadets from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) have successfully graduated from the United States Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, Maryland, on May 23.
Midshipman Michelle Ann Angelu Mazo, 23, from Sampaloc, Manila, earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with Economics. She also served as President of the USNA FilipinoAmerican Club for the academic year. Meanwhile, Midshipman Jonnirell Monreal, 25, from Basey, Samar, earned a degree in Cybersecurity Operations. He also completed the Cyber Warfare Engineering training, preparing him to lead digital defense efforts.
Both cadets graduated with merit, ranking in the top 10% of their class based on academic, military, and physical performance. Their achievement reflects strong standards upheld throughout their cadetship. Rex Espiritu
ment’s concerns to the US State Department.
“He advised me to also relay our concerns to the US embassy in Manila,” Rodriguez said. “The ambassador was kind enough to inform me that our embassy is coordinating closely with local law enforcement to provide accurate reports on the real situation in the country.”
Rodriguez had earlier urged the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to summon US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson for an explanation and said he
would send a formal letter requesting the basis for the advisory. Issued on May 8, the US advisory placed the Philippines under “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution,” citing risks associated with crime and terrorism. Specific areas, however, were subject to stricter classifications: Mindanao (except Davao City, Davao del Norte, Siargao Island, and Dinagat Islands) under Level 3 (Reconsider Travel), and Marawi City and the Sulu Archipelago—including the southern Sulu Sea—under Level 4 (Do Not
Travel).
The advisory noted that violent crimes such as robbery and assault are common and that terrorist groups continue to target public spaces, including markets, local government facilities, and tourist areas. It also warned of the US government’s limited ability to provide emergency services in highrisk areas.
US government employees working in the Philippines were advised to secure special authorization for travel to certain regions.
Private schools urge retention of Angara, Benitez
NATIONAL private school organizations are urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to retain Education Secretary Sonny Angara and TESDA Director General Francisco Benitez, emphasizing the need for continuity in ongoing education reforms. The calls come amid the recent Cabinet revamp, prompting key groups such as the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA), Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP), Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities (PACU), Unified TVET of the Philippines, Inc. (UniTVET), and the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC) to voice
their support.
In a statement, PEAC highlighted Angara’s role in strengthening public-private partnerships in education. “His tenure has already brought key policy shifts, including the review and expansion of education subsidies with a renewed focus on equity and access,” the group said. Angara, who also serves as PEAC Chairman, was lauded for policy initiatives that reinforce complementarity between public and private institutions. COCOPEA cited his leadership in advancing the Public-Private Complementarity Framework, calling it critical to systemic reforms aimed at improving learning outcomes nationwide.
PACU, meanwhile, pointed to both Angara’s and Benitez’s legislative and education policy experience, noting their prior service as EDCOM 2 Commissioners. “Angara’s reform-driven agenda is aligned with the real needs of learners and educators. His commitment to transparency and zero tolerance for corruption is also commendable,” the group said. Benitez was similarly praised for modernizing the technical-vocational education and training (TVET) system. PEAC recognized his strategic focus on access, industry relevance, and lifelong learning, while UniTVET called him a “visionary” leader committed to workforce development.
MMDA urged to suspend odd-even scheme
By Maricel V. Cruz
A PARTY-LIST lawmaker is urging the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to suspend the implementation of the odd-even traffic scheme on EDSA, calling for a comprehensive evaluation of its socio-economic impact and more inclusive planning for alternative transport solutions. In House Resolution 2294, AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert Lee stressed that while reducing vehicular volume is a valid goal, the odd-even scheme unfairly affects
daily commuters, private vehicle owners, and small businesses, especially in the absence of adequate public transportation and clear alternative routes. “It is imperative for the MMDA to ensure an efficient, safe, and widely accessible public transportation system is in place before implementing such schemes that restrict mobility,” Lee said. He warned the policy could lead to unintended consequences such as increased vehicle purchases, further worsening traffic congestion and pollution.
Lee noted that the scheme dis-
proportionately impacts workers who rely on their vehicles for livelihood and business operations, as well as families who may own two cars with the same plate number classification. “This makes the policy inherently unjust,” he said.
The lawmaker urged the MMDA to consult with transport experts, road safety advocates, and the commuting public before moving forward with the scheme. “Traffic policies must not only consider environmental and logistical benefits but must also reflect the everyday realities and challenges faced by ordinary citizens,” he added.
Chinese national linked to Tony Yang arrested in CDO
By Vito Barcelo
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested Xu Shiyan, a Chinese national reportedly connected to Tony Yang, the brother of former presidential economic adviser Michael Yang, in Cagayan de Oro City.
Xu was identified as an incorporator of the Philippine Sanjia-Steel Corporation (Phil-Sanjia), which operates in the city, according to Melody Penelope Gonzales, head of the BI’s Mindanao Intelligence Task Group (MITG). The company had previously drawn scrutiny in relation to illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) activities.
Among Phil-Sanjia’s incorporators is Antonio Lim—believed to be an alias used by Tony Yang, who has been the subject of congressional investigations for alleged links to POGO operations. Yang was previously arrested in 2024 by the BI for misrepresenting his identity as a Filipino citizen. During Xu’s arrest, authorities recovered multiple Philippine government documents under his name, including birth certificates, Philsys IDs, SSS and UMID forms, a driver’s license, and a COMELEC registration slip—raising concerns about possible identity fraud and abuse of government systems.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado reiterated the agency’s firm stance against foreign nationals exploiting the country’s systems. “We will not allow foreign nationals to abuse our systems, falsify their identities, and use Philippine documents to cover their tracks,” he said. “The Bureau is fully committed to supporting the President’s campaign to rid the country of criminal elements linked to illegal POGOs.”
Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, who earlier protested the advisory, said he spoke with Ambas-
sador Jose Manuel Romualdez, who assured him that the embassy has communicated the Philippine govern-
‘SALO-SALO’ FEST. Malabon Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, together with Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, launch the program ‘Salo-Salo: Taste the Flavor, Experience the Culture,’ which celebrates the country’s diverse culinary heritage.
LOAN SCAM. National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) spokesperson Ferdinand Lavin presents Indian nationals Maverick Das Punjabi Guasch and Jazpher Macaraig Rayos, suspects in loan scam cases, who were caught in an entrapment operation conducted by the NBI-NCR in Pasay City. Norman Cruz
SERENE. A tranquil sunset over the Cagayan River paints the sky in warm hues of orange and violet, as carabaos graze peacefully along the lush riverbank. Edd Castro
OPINION
Damage control?
THE night of the long knives turned out to be plastic --- more optical than real.
Just before he enplaned for the ASEAN summit, our president allowed his executive secretary to announce that his courtesy resignation has been rejected, and proceeded to announce some changes. Manalo is to be replaced by his undersecretary, Tess Lazaro who to her credit has sterling experience and qualifications. Manalo will go to the United Nations, to replace Lagdameo, the father of the president’s special assistant. How about the SAP, one wonders.
Jerry Acuzar was removed from DHSUD because of under-delivery on promises made, promises that impressed the president in 2022, but were not sufficiently funded by either the NEP or out-funded by congressional appetite for pork and ayuda.
He is given a sop, the Pasig River project, which I believe he should politely turn down. Go back to Bataan, my friend, and relax.
Toni Loyzaga is asked to take a rest from frequent travels abroad, which the ES said is the reason she is removed from her post. Again one wonders, because it is the office of the president, through the ES, which grants the travel authority for Cabinet and other officials to leave for official travels abroad. So why did the OP keep granting her travel authority?
She is to be replaced by Popo Lotilla, another upright guy who helmed the energy department, with an OIC meanwhile assigned to his post, while the OP scouts for someone to take his place. Waiting for recommendations acceptable to the oligarchs who control our power industry?
Before that announcement, Malacanang retained the economic team, a mixed bag of performers and nonperformers, some of whom were utterly subservient to the whims and demands of Congress in mis-allocating funds and mangling the NEP for their political ends.
Bad politics fosters bad economics, but then again, this administration has time and again sacrificed the people’s well-being at the altar of a politics fueled by greed and ambition.
So the public awaits with bated breath what future head-chopping there will be. Will it be a true reset, or a game of musical chairs, intended to fix the damage to the president’s approval and trust ratings?
Tourism, which should be a low-hanging fruit, is hobbled by many problems: high-cost accessibility of our beautiful travel destinations, affordability of accommodations which are the highest in ASEAN, excepting uber-wealthy Singapore, bad infrastructure, insipid promotions, and, lately, a crime wave that has caused our usual visitor sources to issue travel advisories. Not to mention our frosty relations with a neighbor which used to be our biggest source of tourists.
Our officials tout lower inflation, glossing over the fact that summer is harvest season which has tempered the price of vegetables and aromatics, but pork has become as expensive as beef, while farmers are reeling over the low farm-gate price for their palay, because of gazillions of rice inventory imported last year, attracted by lowered tariffs. Wait till the typhoon season comes.
Ah!, but Benteng Bigas Meron na (BBM always) is here! Funded by subsidies to fund NFA and DA losses of 13 to 15 pesos per kilo, how long can the optical illusion be sustained?
Will ‘reset’ control the damage? Or will it be a ‘Trip to Jerusalem,’ played by recycled bureaucrats and retired politicians?
In 2010, a kilo of NFA rice was retailing at 25 pesos. By the end of that year, it was increased to 27 pesos, while commercial rice was around 33-35 pesos per kilo. Rice has gone up gradually through the years, and the public was not complaining, except for certain critical periods when NFA and DA made wrong calculations of supply and demand in 2014 and 2018.
So why in heavens name was 20 pesos the banner promise of the president in 2022, aside of course from “unity” which his own government demolished?
“Eeez a puzzlement,” sane economists would chorus, even as our economic managers are all ga-ga over the Benteng Bigas project, despite knowing how costly this chimera will be.
And, among others, how will the palace solve its failure to properly communicate? Wrong messaging, despite the counsel of experts both local and one imported from the US of A, and wrong messengers.
In a previous column, I suggested that the president and first lady’s favorite, Anthony Taberna, step up to the plate and take control of the press office.
As of this writing, all we see is a sadlooking Jay Ruiz accompanying the president to Kuala Lumpur. No takers?
Then Pulse Asia belatedly releases its May 6 to 9 dipstick on the trust ratings of the president, his vice president and his predecessor, now imprisoned in damp Den Hag.
More bad news bears.
Will “reset” control the damage? Or will it be a “Trip to Jerusalem,” played by recycled bureaucrats and retired politicians?
Discipline is still necessary
AT LONG last, the Supreme Court has lifted its Temporary Restraining Order on the No Contact Apprehension Policy of the MMDA and other cities in the Metro area.
The lifting, however, is only partial and limited to the 22 national roads in the NCR.
The other parts of the TRO remains in place for the other urban centers throughout the country. Right from when this TRO was issued a few years ago, I never really quite understood why the SC did it considering that all countries all over the world have been utilizing the advances of technology to help in traffic management for many years. Furthermore, the NCAP was administrative in nature and if there were certain legal infirmities, maybe the SC should simply have pointed them out so these could have been corrected. Even now, it seems that the SC may not be sold to the idea because it has limited its implementation to national roads. This could limit the benefits and also prevents full evaluation for possible improvement.
For instance, traffic engineers must evaluate the best placements of the CCTVs in order that whatever videos are taken of a violator, it would clearly show the traffic infraction committed.
The 22 national roads may not enough for full evaluation of the program be-
cause many traffic violations are committed on city roads.
This project, to be very effective as a traffic management tool, must be implemented throughout the entire road system of the NCR or any LGU.
The many years the TRO has been in place wasted a lot of time to make the system mature. Although we are not exactly starting from scratch, we have a lot of catching up to do.
The many years the TRO has been in place wasted a lot of time to make the system mature
With due respect to the honorable court, it should perhaps leave traffic management to the professional traffic engineers.
We are actually very late in embracing modern electronic technology to help solve many of our road problems.
What are some of the benefits of the program?
With a state of the art traffic CCTV system installed all over the NCR, this will tremendously reduce the need for
EDITORIAL
Will Sara’s impeachment case go pfft?
MAYBE those who already smell blood with the preliminary steps in the Senate impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte in June ought to brush up on what the Constitution and Senate rules say on the matter.
The quadcomm hearings may have unearthed a roomful of documentary evidence on alleged misuse of confidential funds by the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education, but the lawmakers and now prosecutors in the impeachment case may have unduly weakened their case by not thoroughly studying the impeachment process.
That’s what can be gathered from the recent statement of election lawyer Romulo Macalintal, who doubts if the impeachment case against the Vice President would prosper, warning that time, not political maneuvering, may be the biggest obstacle.
“If the impeachment case against Sara Duterte starts being heard on June 2, that case is already dead,” Macalintal pointed out, adding that this is a clear case of too little, too late: “The present Senate no longer has time—its term ends by June 30.”
The election lawyer cited Rule 44 of the Senate, which states that all pending matters and proceedings die with the adjournment or termination of Congress. This means the incoming Senate, which convenes after June 30, cannot simply
warm bodies on the road. Another obvious benefit of the program is the reduction of street corruption being committed by enterprising traffic enforcement personnel.
But most of all, it forces our undisciplined drivers to behave on the road regardless whether they see a traffic enforcer or not.
There will always be that threat of apprehension 24 hours a day.
This early, the initial observation has been positive, according to the MMDA. But we should expect some problems.
For instance, apprehensions will include drivers from out of town.
Is the current MMDA enforcement capability prepared to handle this situation?
What sort of arrangement has been
resume the impeachment trial.
If the new Senate revives it, according to Macalintal, it would be considered as if it were presented for the first time.”
The problem is that the Constitution explicitly prohibits the filing of more than one impeachment case against the same official within a one-year period.
The prosecutors in the impeachment case may have unduly weakened their case by not thoroughly studying the impeachment process
“If there’s a new impeachment case, it would fall under what’s called the prohibition in our Constitution—you cannot have two impeachment cases within one year,” Macalintal said, suggesting that
made with the LTO so that out of town violators could still be served their ticket violations and pay their fines?
New traffic rules are also necessary to handle unforeseen and new situations.
This is what is meant of developing the engineering and enforcement infrastructure to be able to implement this program efficiently without any hitches. If this is not done, all sorts of problems will happen.
Then last Monday, MMDA issued a surprising statement promising to be fair in its implementation of the program which was unnecessary.
My understanding of NCAP is it has nothing to do with fairness.
The traffic offense is mainly dependent on what the video taken is showing. If the video taken clearly shows a violation,
any renewed attempt would likely be blocked as unconstitutional.
On the other side of the bar, retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Adolfo Azcuna said the impeachment process must start during the 19th Congress –which ends on June 30 – or it could raise issues of jurisdiction if it extends into the 20th Congress.
He underlined the trial proper can wait but the impeachment court has to be convened to allow the body to acquire jurisdiction over the complaint.
Senate President Francis Escudero himself said the trial may possibly begin after the third State of the Nation Address of President Marcos Jr. in July. Will procedural matters trump the substantive findings of the House In other words, did the lengthy quadcomm hearings simply go to waste because the House lawmakers completely missed what the Constitution and Senate rules are saying? Other legal luminaries would probably have a different reading of the rules and insist that the impeachment trial should go on as scheduled.
The House prosecution panel, of late beefed up with the addition of former Senator and Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and Founding Dean of the De La Salle University College of Law Chel Diokno, would probably disagree with Macalintal’s view.
But we’ll have to wait for what they— and their nine other colleagues in the prosecution team— have to say regarding this issue.
then the driver is penalized. If, however, the video shows no violation, then the MMDA has no recourse but to treat it as such.
It cannot be dependent on the interpretation of the personnel viewing the image. This is the reason why there must be sufficient CCTVs installed so that there will be no room for misinterpretation. Otherwise, it will be a never ending problem. That is also the reason why the image of the violation must accompany the notice of violation.
It will take some time to make the program as perfect as possible.
But we have to remember that although NCAP is a big help, it cannot singlehandedly solve all our traffic problems. Discipline is still necessary.
This is an AI generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon of a tiny noncombatant buoyant ship in horizontal format. On it are Filipino singers playing instruments and singing. A banner says ‘concert at sea for peace’ on its side. At the lower right corner of the cartoon are giant and monstrous red tentacles with huge suckers. One tentacle is labeled ‘Pro-China Pinoy Propagandists.’ The tentacles are menacingly creeping into the boat with unsuspecting Filipinos who look enthusiastic and heroic while singing.
THURSDAY, MAY 29, 2025
IN BRIEF
French court to rule on detained surgeon
VANNES, France – A French court is to give its verdict Wednesday in the trial of a surgeon who admitted to sexually abusing hundreds of patients over more than two decades, in one of the country’s largest child sex abuse cases.
Joel Le Scouarnec, 74, is already in prison after being sentenced in 2020 to 15 years for raping and sexually assaulting four children, including two of his nieces.
In this trial, which began in February, he has admitted sexually assaulting or raping 299 patients -- 256 of them under 15 -- in hospitals in western France between 1989 and 2014, many while they were under anaesthesia or waking up after operations.
Le Scouarnec is charged with 111 rapes and 189 sexual assaults and is set to emerge as one of the most prolific convicted sex predators in France’s history. The victims have been represented by around 60 lawyers. AFP
Trump says ‘Golden Dome’ free for Canada – if...
WASHINGTON, DC – President Donald Trump said Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time) that Canada could join his proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system for free -- but only if it becomes part of the United States. Otherwise it would cost Canada $61 billion to be part of the system, said Trump, who has repeatedly called for the United States’ northern neighbor to become the 51st state. Canada has expressed interest in joining the missile system -- plans for which Trump unveiled last week to defend against a wide array of enemy weapons -- but has firmly rejected any loss of sovereignty.
“I told Canada, which very much wants to be part of our fabulous Golden Dome System, that it will cost $61 Billion Dollars if they remain a separate, but unequal, Nation,” Trump posted on his Truth Social network.
“But (it) will cost ZERO DOLLARS if they become our cherished 51st State. They are considering the offer!” AFP
Minister resigns after losing to PM’s daughter
KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s economy minister said Wednesday he was resigning from his Cabinet post after losing his position as deputy president of the ruling PKR to the premier’s daughter in a party poll.
“My defeat in the recent PKR party election means I no longer have the mandate from my party to translate the people’s agenda -- championed by PKR -- into government policy,” Rafizi Ramli said in a statement, referring to his People’s Justice Party.
“Like the practice in countries that uphold democratic principles, leaders who lose in party elections must make way for those who win to take their place in government.”
The party’s president is Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and his daughter, Nurul Izzah Anwar, won the post of deputy president last week with close to 10,000 votes while Rafizi received around 4,000. Earlier this month, Rafizi said he would step down from the Ccabinet if he lost his party position. AFP
Starship blows up over Indian Ocean in latest bumpy test
SOUTH PADRE SLAND, United States
– SpaceX’s prototype Starship exploded over the Indian Ocean on Tuesday, capping another bumpy test flight for the rocket central to billionaire Elon Musk’s dream of colonizing Mars.
The biggest and most powerful launch vehicle ever built lifted off around 6:36 pm (2336 GMT) from the company’s Starbase facility, near a southern Texas village that earlier this month voted to become a city -- also named Starbase. Excitement ran high among SpaceX engineers and spectators alike, after the last two outings ended with the upper stage disintegrating in fiery cascades over the Caribbean.
But signs of trouble emerged quickly: the first-stage Super Heavy booster blew up instead of executing its planned splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico.
A live feed then showed the upperstage spaceship failing to open its doors to deploy a payload of Starlink satellite “simulators.” Though the ship flew farther than on its two previous attempts, it sprang leaks and began spinning out of control as it coasted through space.
Mission teams vented fuel to reduce the force of the expected explosion, and onboard cameras cut out roughly 45 minutes into what was meant to be a
Trump: Putin ‘playing with fire’
WASHINGTON, DC – US
President
Donald Trump warned Vladimir Putin Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time) that he was “playing with fire,” taking a fresh jab at his Russian counterpart as Washington weighs new sanctions against Moscow over the Ukraine war.
Trump’s latest broadside showed his
frustration with stalled ceasefire talks and comes two days after he called the Kremlin leader “absolutely CRAZY” following a major drone attack on Ukraine.
Moscow, which invaded Ukraine in February 2022, insisted it was responding to escalating Ukrainian strikes on its own civilians and accused Kyiv of trying to “disrupt” peace efforts.
Meanwhile, in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for a three-way summit with Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin as he seeks to force Moscow to halt its three-year invasion.
“If Putin is not comfortable with a bilateral meeting, or if everyone wants it to be a trilateral meeting, I don’t mind. I am ready for any format,” Zelenskyy said in comments published Wednesday.
He also said he would “very much
Charles says Canada ‘strong and free’
OTTAWA – King Charles III hailed Canada as “strong and free” as he delivered a major speech to open parliament in Ottawa against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump’s threats to take over the country.
“Democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, self-determination, and freedom are values which Canadians hold dear, and ones which the government is determined to protect,” King Charles said, adding Canada was facing a “critical moment.”
To loud applause, he drew on the national anthem as he said “the true north is indeed strong and free!”
Prime Minister Mark Carney invited the 76-yearold British monarch -- Canada’s head of state as it is a Commonwealth member -- to the capital, accompanied by Queen Camilla.
The king has never publicly commented on Trump’s repeated talk of making Canada the 51st US state, but his language was closely watched for veiled references.
Although the speech was read by the king as if it were his own words, it was written by the prime minister’s office to set out the government’s priorities to “build Canada strong” and how it aims to achieve them.
In addition to his annexation threats, Trump has also launched tariff wars, particularly targeting Canada.
“The system of open global trade that, while not perfect, has helped to deliver prosperity for Canadians for decades, is changing,” Charles said, in cautious words. AFP
like” Trump to hit Russia’s banking and energy sectors with a package of hardhitting sanctions in response to a wave of Russian aerial attacks and Moscow’s refusal to agree to a ceasefire. Zelenskyy added Russia is amassing “more than 50,000” troops on the front line around the northeastern Sumy border region, where Moscow’s army has captured several settlements as it seeks to establish a “buffer zone” inside Ukrainian territory.
“Now they are also amassing troops in the Sumy direction. More than 50,000,” Zelensky told reporters on Tuesday, in remarks published on Wednesday. Diplomatic efforts to end the war have intensified in recent weeks, but Putin has been accused of stalling peace talks.
“What Vladimir Putin doesn’t realize is that if it weren’t for me, lots of really
bad things would have already happened to Russia, and I mean REALLY BAD.
He’s playing with fire!” Trump said on his Truth Social network. Trump did not specify what the “really bad” things were. But the Wall Street Journal and CNN both reported that the Republican was now considering fresh sanctions as early as this week.
Trump told reporters on Sunday he was “absolutely” weighing such a move.
‘Provocative’
The White House said Trump was keeping “all options” open.
“This war is Joe Biden’s fault, and President Trump has been clear he wants to see a negotiated peace deal. President Trump has also smartly kept all options on the table,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told AFP in a statement. AFP
CAMBRIDGE – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time) ordered a suspension of student visa processing in the latest swipe at foreign students in the country. The White House is cracking down on foreign students at US universities, revoking visas and deporting those involved in protests against the war in Gaza, accusing them of supporting Palestinian militant group Hamas. Rubio earlier rescinded hundreds of visas and President Donald Trump’s administration moved to bar Harvard University from admitting non-Americans. A cable signed by Rubio and seen by AFP orders embassies and consulates not to allow “any additional student or exchange visa... appointment capacity until further guidance is issued.”
The government also plans to ramp up vetting of the social media profiles of
in latest swipe
international applicants to US universities, the cable said.
The move came as Harvard students protested after the government said it intends to cancel all remaining financial contracts with the elite school, Trump’s latest attempt to force the institution to submit to unprecedented oversight. Hundreds of students gathered to oppose Trump’s widening offensive, including Tuesday’s measures estimated to be worth $100 million, against the university that has drawn his ire for refusing to give up control of curriculum, admissions and research.
“Trump = traitor” read one student placard, while the crowd chanted “who belongs in class today, let them stay” in reference to Harvard’s international students whose status Trump has upended by summarily revoking the university’s accreditation to the country’s Student and Exchange Visitor program. AFP
FAILED DIPLOMACY. In this handout photograph taken and released by the press service of the 65th Mechanized Brigade of Ukrainian Armed Forces the other day, new recruits take part in a training exercise at an undisclosed location near the front line in the Zaporizhzhia region, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine, whose president Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia is amassing ‘more than 50,000’ troops on the front line around the
‘CRITICAL MOMENT.’ Britain’s King Charles III, 76, greets police officers on departure from MacdonaldCartier International Airport in Ottawa, Canada Wednesday following
IN BRIEF
Imus marks 127th year of Battle of Alapan
THE values of nationalism and patriotism must be instilled in the consciousness of the youth who must be taught that the freedom we now enjoy came from the blood and sweat of our ancestors and heroes, National Youth Commission (NYC) chairman Joseph Francisco Ortega said in Filipino. Ortega issued the statement in his remarks at the observance of the 127th anniversary of the Battle of Alapan in Imus City, Cavite, fought on May 28, 1898 and was the first military victory of the Filipino revolutionaries led by Emilio Aguinaldo following his return to the Philippines from Hong Kong.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) spearheaded the event in collaboration with the Cavite provincial government and the local government of Imus.
Other dignitaries who were present and participated in the wreath-laying included NHC chairman Regalado Jose Jr. and Cavite Rep. Jay Advincula. Dennis Abrina
TESDA approves new certification for CDWs
THE Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has approved the new National Certification III for child development workers (CDWs) in a bid to professionalize the early childhood care workforce.
“With the NC III for early childhood care and development, parents and guardians can be confident that our CDWs will gain the competencies needed to help children aged 0-4 in their holistic development,” said TESDA Secretary and former EDCOM 2 Commissioner Jose Francisco Benitez.
The initiative followed the enactment of Republic Act 12199, also known as the ECCD System Act, which calls for improved training, compensation, and professional development for CDWs and Child Development Teachers. Ram Superable CHR commends DepEd for expanded CDCs THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Wednesday lauded the Department of Education’s (DepEd) initiative to build 300 child development centers (CDCs) in poor areas to expand access to early childhood education.
“The Commission views this initiative as a vital step in fulfilling the State’s obligation to uphold the rights of every Filipino child — to protection, development and education. Providing early learning opportunities in underserved areas helps break cycles of inequality and promotes every child’s inherent dignity,” the CHR cited.
The initiative is a collaborative effort between the DepEd and the Department of Budget and Management, reflecting their shared commitment to building an education system that is accessible to everyone. Rio N. Araja
CITY WITHIN A
CITY. Even in the
any
IN A display of advanced military coordination and preparedness, the Philippine Army (PA) and the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) conducted a high-profile Air Assault and Airport Seizure operation on May 24 as part of the ongoing
Two complainants in rape case vs. PAF general back to work
By Rex Espiritu
TWO Philippine Air Force (PAF) soldiers who accused a major general of rape have returned to work following a mental health wellness break granted them by their superiors.
Col. Ritza Ann Jovellanos, acting chief of the PAF Public Affairs Office, said the alleged victims of sexual assault were granted a 10day leave immediately after the incident on January 29.
“The victims were given a mental
health break right after the incident. They were offered legal assistance as well as psychological assistance, although they opted to get their private counsel and to be psychologically checked outside (the base). But they are back to their jobs,”
Jovellanos told reporters in a media briefing at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday.
“As to the ambiance in the PAF, it is business as usual. It’s an isolated case,” she added.
“From the get-go, from the start, the personnel are well-trained, indoctrinated on their rights, on their policies. For instance, R.A. 1313 or Safe Spaces Act, so they knew their rights,” Jovellanos added.
A CCTV footage on Jan. 29 showed a black van arriving at Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas at around 5:30 a.m., carrying Philippine
PH, US armies stage air-ground combat exercise in Calayan
Salaknib 2025 exercise.
The air-ground maneuver held in Calayan, Cagayan underscored the combined forces’ capability to secure vital strategic locations through Maritime Key Terrain Security Operations, utilizing cutting-edge
assets like the V-22 Osprey, CH-47 Chinook, and UH-60 Black Hawk.
According to Armed Forces of the Philippines, the exercise enhanced interoperability and showcased the readiness of both armies to respond to complex operational
scenarios.
Salaknib 2025, a cornerstone of the PH-US defense partnership, aims to strengthen joint military procedures, improve readiness, and deepen mutual understanding of each other’s doctrines. Rex Espiritu
PCUP acts to empower Tolosa fishermen
By Rio N. Araja
IN celebration of the Fisherfolk Month, the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) has partnered with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the Department of Trade and Industry to empower fishermen in Tolosa, Leyte.
“Here in Visayas, we help everyone regardless of their job. Providing services like this can make a big difference in people’s lives. This Fisherfolk Month, we are doing our part to equip them with added skills they can use every day and for their livelihood,” PCUP operations chief for Visayas Chloe Manlosa-Osano said.
PCUP chairman Meynard Sabili expressed gratitude to all the partner-agencies for their unwavering
support of the PCUP’s mission to uplift the living standards of marginalized fisherfolk communities.
PCUP’s Field Operations Division for Visayas recently conducted a two-day skills training for 27 marginalized fisherfolk from the Barangay Opong Fisherfolks and Vendors Association.
Along with the Department of Social Welfare and Development through its Sustainable Livelihood Program, the Tolosa municipal government also participated in the event.
BFAR’s training focused on proper food handling, food safety, good manufacturing practices and fish drying procedures.
On the other hand, the DTI shared practical knowledge on costing and pricing to help participants in building their livelihood projects.
Air Force (PAF) personnel returning from a night out. Among them was a major general who had to be assisted to his quarters.
Nearly three hours later, two male soldiers were seen leaving the official’s quarters, visibly in tears. They reported to their immediate superior, a lieutenant, that the major general had taken advantage of them. The following day, the soldiers filed a formal complaint with the Office of Ethical Standards and Public Accountability (OESPA) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
By Joel E. Zurbano
THE Makati City government has acquired six new school buses to provide free transportation for public school students in the city.
Mayor Abigail Binay said the initiative aims to address the daily commuting problems faced by the in going to and from the schools. This program seeks to improve school attendance, enhance student safety, and ease the financial burden on families, Binay said.
“With this new initiative, we are making it easier for students to go to school safely and on time so they can focus on learning,” she added. Each bus will operate on a fixed route with scheduled pickup and drop-off points covering central barangays and school zones. The service is exclusively available for students enrolled in Makati’s public schools. To ensure safety and efficient monitoring, the students will have to present their ID cards to the drivers. Each vehicle will be equipped with a GPS tracking system that allows real-time updates and notifications for parents.
The buses will be operated by licensed drivers and supervised by transport aides trained in child safety and basic first aid.
The city will implement the program in phases, beginning with a pilot run in selected barangays and public schools that have high student populations who usually encounter commuting difficulties.
Prior to full implementation, consultations will be held with school administrators, parent associations, and barangay officials to finalize routes and safety protocols. After evaluating the pilot phase, the program will be expanded to cover all public schools in the city.
TACTICAL ASSAULT. A joint team of Filipino and American Army soldiers stages a simulated ground assault in Calayan, Cagayan in connection with the ongoing Salaknib 2025 Exercise between the two countries.
IN MEMORIAM. In fitting commemorative ceremonies, the 127th year of the famous Battle of Alapan in Imus, Cavite was remembered. Fought on May 28, 1898, the skirmishes marked the first victory of Filipino freedom fighters against the Spanish occupation forces. Dennis Abrina
evening, the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City hustles and bustles, unmistakable signs that business and lifestyle remain vibrant at
given time of the day— and night. Edd Castro
THURSDAY, MAY 29, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
Eala, Mexican partner advance in French Open
ALEX ANDRA Eala successfully debuted in the 2025 French Open women’s doubles with Mexican teammate Renata Zarazua.
Eala and Zarazua prevailed over Britain’s Emily Appleton and Spain’s Yvonne Cavalle-Reimers, 7-5, 6-4, and book a place in the second round at the Roland Garros Stadium.
It was over in 90 minutes as saw Eala achieved a first Grand Slam match win for a Filipino player.
“I think we’re entering a new era for Filipino sport,” said the 20-year old Eala.
Eala was earlier eliminated in the first round of the singles by Emiliana Arango of Colombia 6-0, 2-6, 6-3. Now ranked world no. 73 this week, Eala and Zarazua will next meet Serbian pair Oga Danilovic and Anastasia Patapova.
Danilovic and Patapova turned back US pair Carolina Dolehide and Desirae Marie Krawczyk, 1-6, 6-4, 7-5. Eala and Zarazua unleashed an ace and 20 winners to win the contest.
Peter Atencio
SPORTS
Ramirez strikes gold again at Asian Jiu-Jitsu tourney
By Randy M. Caluag
PHILIPPINE national team mainstay Annie Ramirez once again proved her dominance on the mat, capturing the gold medal at the 9th Asian Jiu-Jitsu Championships in Amman, Jordan — the same stage where she claimed top honors in 2023.
Competing in the Women’s Adult -57 kg division, Ramirez led Team Philippines to a strong overall showing with one gold, two silvers, and five bronzes.
“No words can truly express how I feel about this competition,” Ramirez shared in a heartfelt social media post.
“Winning gold again at the 9th
Asian Ju-Jitsu Championships in Amman, Jordan — just like in 2023 — feels surreal. But this year’s win was different. It felt like God’s work.
“Before I stepped on the mats for the final match, the only thing I prayed for was a clear mind and the ability to give everything I worked for in this journey. That
finish—I wasn’t even thinking about doing it. It just… happened,” she added.
The Philippines’ collective output was good for a fourth-place finish behind powerhouse teams from Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. The team edged out strong competitors from Jordan, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, and Thailand.
Kaila Napolis delivered one of the two silver medals for the Philippines in the Women’s Adult -52 kg division, while Dylan Valmores earned the other silver in the Women’s Adult +70 kg category.
The bronze medalists included Kimberly Ann Custodio in the Women’s Adult -45 kg, Joanne Tan in the
FEU, Chiang Kai Shek score dominant wins
FAR Eastern University-Diliman bullied its way to a 25-9, 25-12, dismantling of University of the Philippines Integrated School for a strong start in Division 1 of the 2025 Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League (SGVIL) Rising Stars Cup Wednesday at the La Salle Green Hills gym Court 2.
Ifunanya Udaegbala had seven points off six attacks and one kill block in the Lady Baby Tamaraws’ winning debut in Pool D of the country’s biggest grassroots volleyball league backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner and R and B Milk Tea.
Aleah Devosora and Aliah Ona backed her up with six points each while setter Sheena Café landed three of FEU’s 12 aces.
In Pool B, Chiang Kai Shek College blasted Bethel Academy, 25-15, 25-22, behind Shamira Pantoja’s 11-point explosion, all from attacks.
The Blue Dragons pummeled the Bethelites with 27 kills and five aces in the 51-minute encounter.
Lyceum of the Philippines University and Arellano University also
hurdled their respective opening day assignments.
The Junior Lady Pirates swept University of Perpetual Help System Dalta, 25-18, 25-21, in Pool A while the Lady Braves survived dangerous Kings’ Montessori School, 25-19, 1625, 27-25, in Pool C.
umph over gritty St. Theresa-Quezon City in Pool F. Naimha Martha Banal led DIS with 12 points built on seven attacks and five aces.
The Pasig-based DIS regrouped in the second set to force a decider and looked poised for an easy win in the third frame after erecting a 10-point lead, 21-11.
St. Theresa refused to surrender without a fight, unleashing a telling run to knot the set at 23 off a Briana Mendoza kill block on Banal. Banal pushed DIS at match point but a service error by Micaela Pingris gave St. Theresa an opening to take three match point advantages with its last at 27-26 off a Mendoza kill.
Women’s Adult -70 kg, Carlo Pena in the Men’s Adult -56 kg, Santino de Luzuriaga in the Men’s Adult -62 kg, and Jhen Buzon in the Women’s Adult Fighting -52 kg. Ramirez is set to compete at the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China, this August.
She will be joined by fellow qualifier Napolis, who earned her spot through an earlier international tournament, and other Filipino athletes heading to the World Games that will compete in various disciplines, including billiards, duathlon, kickboxing, powerlifting, wakeboarding, and wushu.
Final confirmation is still pending for the country’s participation in dragon boat and floorball.
By Peter Atencio
LAOAG City—Javelin thrower
Anna Bhianca Espenilla exceeded expectations in the 2025 Palarong Pambansa athletics meet at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium in Ilocos Norte. The 18-year-old Espenilla, a graduating student athlete of the Masbate Sports Academy in Region 6, went past a recognized Philippine junior record with a 48.47-meter heave and retained her crown in the secondary girls’ division.
The Greenies demolished Assumption College-San Lorenzo in straight sets, 25-13, 25-11, for a rousing start in Pool E.
On the other hand, DIS clawed back from a set down before pulling off a hard-earned, 13-25, 25-20, 29-27, tri-
Meanwhile, La Salle Green Hills and Domuschula International School score contrasting debut victories in their respective pools in Division 2 of the tournament, backed by Mikasa, Asics, Team Rebel Sports, Belo Deo and Smart.
A 1-2 play by DIS setter Portia Asistio forced the last deadlock before Chyne Lin finished off St. Theresa with back-to-back aces.
Immaculate Conception Academy dominated Assumption-Antipolo, 2514, 25-19, in the other Pool F pairing.
Action continues Thursday with University of Santo Tomas taking on UPIS at 9 a.m. to open the five-game schedule in Court 1.
As Espenilla collected her gold medal, 12-year-old swimmer Sophia Garra took in her fourth mint in the elementary girls’ side, also in record-breaking fashion at the end of her stint in the 200-meter individual medley.
Espenilla’s performance saw her improve the Palaro record of Katherine Quitoy of 45.72 meters set in 2018. Her mark also exceeded Quitoy’s national record of 44.71
CAVINTI, Laguna—Patrick Tambalque delivered a bogey-free 66 in rain-softened conditions to seize a commanding lead in the boys’ 1518 division of the ICTSI Caliraya Springs Junior PGT Championship here on Wednesday, even as multiple tight contests shaped up across the other categories of the tournament. The resumption of the Luzon series saw the Caliraya Springs Golf Club layout hit by overnight rain, softening fairways and greens. Gentle winds further challenged the young field. But Tambalque, fresh off a victory at Sherwood Hills and returning after skipping the Splendido Taal leg, turned the par-72 course into his playground. The 16-year-old Learning Links Academy standout birdied three of his first five holes from the back nine, then repeated the feat on the front side, matching 33s under the lift-clean-and-place rule. His stellar six-under card gave him a seven-
stroke advantage over Zachary Villaroman and John Paul Agustin, who both turned in 73s.
Kristoffer Nadales and Geoffrey Drew shared fourth at 75 in the 54hole event, which stakes not only berths in the Elite Junior Finals but also World Amateur Golf Ranking points.
“Putting really carried my game – even long ones were dropping,” said Tambalque, who trains at Manila Southwoods and Riviera. “I didn’t expect this score because of the tough weather, but I’m happy with how I played. The key now is to stick to my process and not rush.”
In contrast, the girls’ 15-18 division featured a dramatic, see-saw battle. Levonne Talion, Rafa Anciano and Tiffany Bernardino exchanged leads under mid-morning drizzle. But Bernardino, despite a bogey-bogey finish, emerged with the lead after an 84, one ahead of Talion and Anciano, who both closed
with 85s after faltering over the final three holes.
“It was a mixed round with lots of ups and downs, but my short game really helped me recover,” said the 14-year-old Bernardino, a Poveda College student. “I need to focus more on fairways, short game and better placements tomorrow (Thursday).”
“Chloe Rada carded an 89 and remained five strokes off the lead with two rounds left in the event organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. and launched by ICTSI in 2023 to discover and develop emerging talent – particularly from the countryside – and train them to become future national team standouts. Mona Sarines moved within striking distance of a second straight win in the 36-hole, girls’ 11-14 division, posting a 73 powered by a back-nine surge (36) to pull four shots ahead of twin sister Lisa, who stumbled with a 40 on the home stretch for a 77.
set in 2017. She set a record last year at 46.76 meters. But it was not recognized because issues concerning the Cebu City Sports Complex oval. “Excited po ako. Na meet ko ang expectation ko, at nakagawa po ako ng record dito sa Palaro,” said Espenilla, who is set join the Far Eastern
Annie Ramirez executes an armbar against her opponent.
(John Maranon)
Alexandra Eala
Players and coaches of the FEU team
Patrick Tambalque (Manny Marcelo)
tourna
Splendi
By Othel V. Campos
XPORT shipments from the Philippines and across Asia have been on hold since March 2025, as global buyers hesitate to place orders amid continued uncertainty over US trade tariffs, according to a logistics executive.
“There’s
PH, Asian exports stalled by US tariff uncertainty
hold, and some garment clients. Everyone’s in a wait-and-see mode,” said Airspeed Inc. chairperson and president Rosemarie Rafael in a chance interview at the Doing Business with the Philippine Forum on Tuesday.
Rafael said the trade environment has become increasingly volatile following the US decision to impose new tariffs, which are currently under a 90-day grace period.
“The tariffs have not been stabilized. Buyers don’t know whether to proceed with their orders or not. And while the Philippines is no longer a manufacturing hub like Vietnam, Cambodia, or Thailand,
we’re still affected by the slowdown in outbound shipments,” Rafael said. Rafael said the impact on logistics is especially felt in the export side of the business, which comprises about 70 percent of Airspeed’s international operations.
Projecting growth in the logistics sector remains difficult, Rafael said, but she remains cautiously optimistic. Past downturns such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, have shown that slow periods are often followed by recovery, she said. Amid the current uncertainty, she cited the importance of regional cooperation, particularly within ASEAN, to reduce reliance on the US market.
As the world’s fifth-largest economy, ASEAN holds untapped potential, she said. “Instead of competing, member countries could find ways to complement one another’s strengths. The Philippines, with its population of over 100 million, offers a sizable domestic market that can also help cushion external shocks,” she said.
Markets in the Middle East, Africa, and other parts of Asia are among those Airspeed is eyeing for expansion. “These are areas that have remained largely untapped. This is an opportunity in adversity,” Rafael said.
By Michael Wong
PH stocks advance on bargain hunting, Trump’s EU tariff delay
By Jenniffer B. Austria
SHARE prices bounced back Wednesday as investors looked for bargains after two straight days of decline.
The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index advanced by 41.18 points or 0.64 percent to close at 6,425.80. The wider all shares index jumped 17.56 points or 0.47 percent to 3,753.10.
Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said Philippine shares also tracked US performance which went up as US president Donald Trump decided to delay a 50 percent tariff on imported goods from Europe.
Limlingan said Trump’s decision to delay the proposed 50 percent tariff against European Union boosted hopes that more trade deals will follow.
All sectors ended in positive territory led by financials which increased by 1.46 percent followed by services which rose 0.76 percent.
Advancers edged decliners 117 to 80. Value turnover improved to P5.77 billion. Foreign investors turned net buyers
with inflows reaching P687.36 million.
Alliance Global Group Inc. was the top index gainer for the day, increasing by 3.60 percent to P8.05 apiece while Century Pacific Food Inc., was the main index laggard, declining by 3.78 percent to P39.45 each.
Asian equities wobbled Wednesday as investors struggled to track a Wall Street rally fueled by forecast-beating US consumer confidence data, with a weak Japanese debt sale adding to worries about rising bond yields.
New York investors returned to their desks after a long weekend break in a good mood after Donald Trump delayed until July the 50 percent tariffs on the European Union he announced out of the blue on Friday, sparking a market rout.
The US president’s announcement Sunday delaying them soothed worries about a fresh flare-up in his trade war that has rattled global sentiment, fanned uncertainty and led some to question their confidence in the world’s biggest economy.
Buying was also boosted by Trump’s post on social media flagging progress with Brussels. With AFP
Mesa expedites growth with P240-m expansion in 2025
By Othel V. Campos
MESA Filipino Moderne is accelerating its nationwide growth with a ₱240-million expansion plan that includes 15 new stores by the end of 2025, powered in part by a newly signed exclusive beverage partnership with Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI).
During the contract signing ceremony, Foodee Global Concepts’ chief operating officer and president Eric Dee, said the brand is reigniting its “Grow to 100” campaign, a goal originally set for 2020 but put on hold due to the pandemic.
“We’re already at 85 stores today, and we’re actively working to hit 100 by year-end,” he said during the contract signing with PCPPI.
The pandemic forced Mesa to shut down eight stores, prompting a period of realignment and consolidation.
Of the current 85 locations, 12 are company-owned while the rest are franchises, a model that has proven effective for expansion, especially outside Metro Manila.
“Most of our openings are in the provinces like Lipa, Tagaytay, Laoag, and La Union. These areas benefit from localized operations through
franchising,” said Dee, adding that the Mesa Laoag franchise is set to open on May 29.
The partnership with PCPPI was two years in the making, a strategic move for both companies.
Dee said that since Mesa is in key cities across the country, the partnership just made sense.
“There’s a shared hunger to expand, and that like-mindedness brought us together,” he said.
He said most of Mesa’s competitors already serve the rival beverage brand, and the partnership with Pepsi was a way to differentiate and align with a partner eager to grow.
THE reconstruction of Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) and the more restrictive number coding along this major thoroughfare starting next month have confirmed everybody's fears—Metro Manila traffic will get worse before it gets better.
EDSA's overhaul will take at least 18 months to complete. Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has conceded the extensive overhaul will significantly worsen traffic on Metro Manila’s main artery during the construction period.
The rehabilitation of EDSA and other major streets is long overdue. The uneven road conditions have posed severe hazards to motorists and commuters.
The overhaul, according to the official government line, seeks to address persistent issues and enhance the commuting experience for millions of Filipinos.
“Right now, driving on EDSA can be uncomfortable—your vehicle shakes so much it’s hard to even
send a text. It’s time to rehabilitate EDSA once and for all,” says Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manny Bonoan.
EDSA's overhaul will shortly limit the number of vehicles plying the road. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is implementing a 24-hour oddeven number-coding scheme along EDSA beginning June 16. Vehicles with plate numbers ending in odd digits (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) will be barred from using EDSA on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Those with plate numbers ending in even digits (0, 2, 4, 6, 8) will be restricted on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
The revised coding scheme and EDSA's overhaul are sure to aggravate Metro Manila's notorious traffic gridlock.
But will EDSA's reconstruction job provide the real answer to Metro Manila's traffic nightmare? The EDSA rebuild is just a superficial solution to traffic
CebuPac, flydeal ink aircraft wet lease agreement
By Darwin G. Amojelar
CEBU Pacific, the Philippines’ leading carrier, has entered into a wet-lease agreement with flyadeal, Saudi Arabia’s fast growing low-cost airline to provide two aircraft for the peak summer travel season in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The two airlines signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that covers a wide range of opportunities in commercial cooperation and support in maintenance and engineering.
The first phase of the MoU will see flyadeal utilize two of Cebu Pacific’s Airbus A320 aircraft on a wet-lease arrangement for the upcoming summer peak flying season in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Reciprocally, Cebu Pacific is examining wet-leasing flyadeal A320s during the busy winter period in Southeast Asia at the end of the year.
The agreement was signed at a joint press conference held in Manila on Wednesday wherein the parties outlined plans for a phased cooperation beginning with the wet-lease arrangement.
Talks between the two airlines began earlier this year following a visit by flyadeal chief executive Steven Greenway to Manila to learn more about Cebu Pacific’s A330-900neo operations.
flyadeal recently announced plans to venture into the long-haul market with an order for 10 A330 widebodies to be deployed between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines, and across southeast Asia from 2027.
“Today’s agreement is momentous as it marks flyadeal’s first ever strategic airline partnership. It was clear and obvious that flyadeal could learn a lot from Cebu Pacific’s experience of low-cost long-haul operations given we will be inducting the same A330-900neos into our fleet in just two years’ time. There are great benefits in sharing technical knowledge, training, and best practice in preparation for our A330 induction and, of course, we are both A320 operators,” Greenway said.
EDSA rebuild just a cosmetic solution to traffic woes
By decongesting
The underlying issues that
cause traffic are still not being addressed.
congestion. The underlying issues that cause traffic are still not being addressed. As I have written several times in this column, a growing population, the lack of mass transportation system and wide roads, and the continuous migration of workers from the provinces to Metro Manila have created the perfect storm that is causing traffic mayhem in the whole of the capital region.
Urban decongestion provides the real solution to traffic gridlock. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is aware of the fundamental problems that cause the logjams in the capital region and has thought of the pragmatic solution to the traffic gridlock. He has pursued in the past the development of nearby provinces and cities to decongest Metro Manila.
He obviously referred to the migration of future or current economic activities to areas outside of the urban capital as a way to declog Metro Manila. New and expanded roads and railway networks will ease traffic in the metropolis, but they can only provide quick fix remedies to the urban snarl.
Developing and improving mobility in Metro Manila’s nearby provinces such as Bulacan, Pampanga, Laguna and Cavite, says Mr. Marcos, are among the priorities that will address the traffic problems.
He has ordered concerned agencies to provide a comprehensive and holistic approach to fix the country’s worsening traffic system. That directive was months ago,
But building a satellite city just outside Metro Manila or less than 100 kilometers from the metropolis makes better sense as President Marcos suggested. The only way to improve the traffic situation and the quality of life in the capital region is through decongestion.
New satelliete cities, hopefully, will rectify the past mistakes of city planning. They will generate new jobs and can reverse the migration of workers to Metro Manila.
Metro Manila, the capital region can plan and respond better to the demand for infrastructure and social services of a growing population.
The cost of poorly planned urbanization, according to the United Nations, can be seen in some of the huge slums, tangled traffic, greenhouse gas emissions and sprawling suburbs across the globe.
Development inequality and the levels of urban energy consumption and pollution, says the UN, are some of the challenges.
Cities occupy just 3 percent of the Earth’s land, but account for 60 percent to 80 percent of energy consumption and 75 percent of carbon emissions.
“Many cities are also more vulnerable to climate change and natural disasters due to their high concentration of people and location so building urban resilience is crucial to avoid human, social and economic losses,” adds the UN.
Decongestion will correct the inequities of past urban developments and avoid the traffic jams that typically characterize megalopolises like Metro Manila.
WET LEASE AGREEMENT. Cebu Pacific, Philippines’ leading carrier, and flyadeal, Saudi Arabia’s fast growing low-cost airline, sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore joint strategic commercial initiatives. The first phase of the MoU will see flyadeal utilize two of Cebu Pacific’s Airbus A320 aircraft on a wet-lease arrangement for the upcoming summer peak flying season in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Mesa Filipino Moderne signs an exclusive beverage partnership with Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) as it plans to open 15 new stores by end 2025.
AIC to take over Panglao airport operations in June
By Darwin G. Amojelar
ABOITIZ InfraCapital, Inc. (AIC) on Wednesday said the upcoming turnover of the Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) is set to boost Bohol’s economic momentum.
The company said the planned capacity upgrades at the airport are anticipated to pave the way for expanded tourism and regional growth.
“The modernization of BPIA is not just about upgrading infrastructure—it’s about enabling the continued rise of Bohol as a vibrant tourism and economic hub in the Visayas. We are proud to support the province’s aspirations through transformative infrastructure ecosystems such as BPIA,” Cosette Canilao, AIC president and chief executive said.
By Jenni er B. Austria
Holdings Inc. (SMPH) is set to open its
shopping mall in Ilocos Norte province on Friday, the company’s 88th mall in the Philippines.
SM City Laoag is located along Airport Road close to the city center and Laoag International Airport. The mall is also near commercial areas and residential developments. The mall has three levels and more than 51,000 square meters of space for shops. About 90 percent of the space is already leased. The mall is expected to create around 4,000 jobs for Ilocanos.
“The opening of SM City Laoag
reinforces our commitment to bring modern, accessible and community-oriented retail experiences to underserved but fast-growing areas,” said SM Prime president Jeffrey Lim.
“We’re excited to support the region’s economic momentum,” he said. Ilocos Norte had an economic growth rate of 8.6 percent in 2024. This was the fastest growth among provinces in Region I. The growth came from services, accommodation and transport.
SM City Laoag will include SM Store, SM Supermarket, SM Cinema, Ace Hardware, Pet Express, Miniso and BDO. Other brands include Levi’s, Columbia, Adidas, Watsons and Parfois. Dining options will include TGI
Fridays, Vikings, Marugame Udon, Café Amian and Milk Pot.
The mall will also have an openair park called “Dap-ayan.” It is named after the Ilocano word for gathering place and will host events and leisure activities.
SMPH is also studying a complementary hotel development in Laoag to tap into the area’s growing tourism and MICE potential, expanding its footprint beyond retail in Northern Luzon.
Aside from SM Laoag, SMPH also plans to open more malls this year. These include new malls in La Union, Zamboanga City, and Sta. Rosa, Laguna.
The company also plans to redevelop at least 10 existing malls.
Under a 30-year concession agreement, AIC, the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, will formally take over operations of BPIA in June 2025.
Upon turnover, BPIA will join the award-winning Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu and Laguindingan International Airport in Misamis Oriental as members of AIC’s growing aviation portfolio.
AIC is set to implement a P4.53billion investment plan that includes the expansion of BPIA’s passenger terminal building, installation of modern aviation systems, and enhancements to airside and landside facilities.
Within 1 to 2 years of takeover, AIC aims to boost BPIA’s current capacity
from 2 million to 2.5 million passengers annually, with future expansions pushing capacity to 3.9 million passengers per year by 2030.
“This project reinforces our goal of elevating airport experiences while contributing to local economies,” Rafael Aboitiz, AIC vice president and head of Airports Business said.
“We look forward to bringing our proven track record at MCIA to Bohol and working with stakeholders to unlock the full potential of the province’s ‘Green Gateway to the World’ and deliver unique Boholano hospitality in our service,” he said.
The modernization of BPIA will complement Bohol’s economic priorities previously identified by the Bohol Provincial Planning and Development Office, which include sustainable tourism, climate-smart agriculture, and micro-enterprise growth.
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) report, Bohol’s transportation and storage sector grew by 20.4 percent in 2023, while accommodation and food services surged by 27.9 percent, underscoring the province’s readiness for increased tourist arrivals and business activity.
MASANDO Hashimoto, president of Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), emerged unscathed after his Vios race car struck a barrier and overturned during the 2025 Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippine Cup.
The incident occurred during the Novice Class circuit race in the final laps.
“He was able to evacuate his Vios one-make-race (OMR) car promptly and came out of the incident without any injuries,” TMP said in a statement. Hashimoto himself attested to the vehicle’s integrity.
“My car flipped upside down and became immobilized. While the tires and engine sustained significant damage from the impact, the cabin remained intact and completely clear, allowing me to escape without even a scratch,” he said.
“I lost my beloved Vios #4, but it saved my life,” Hashimoto said.
“We racers experience crashes all the time, many times, which is part of racing, but I have seen first-hand the wonderful fact that Toyota cars are safe, robust and keep the drivers protected.”
Toyota Motor PH head unharmed after Vios race car crash in Cavite Dizon lauds OTS for swift drug bust at NAIA terminal 1
The incident occurred during the second of three Race Weekends for the TGR Philippine Cup, a prominent motorsports event in the Philippines. More than 12,000 attendees experienced various racing and driving activities on the streets of Villar City from May 23-25. Racers across four classes – Novice, Sporting, Super Sporting, and Legacy – competed wheel-to-wheel in three circuit races over the weekend on a 2.4-kilometer-long street circuit.
The makeshift track featured 14 turns, including two hairpins and six chicanes, providing dynamic action for spectators.
TMP has utilized the Vios OMR, specifically converted for the TGR Philippine Cup (formerly Vios Cup), for 11 years, subjecting it to diverse racing conditions on both permanent and street circuits. These vehicles are modified to meet racing standards, incorporating safety features such as a roll cage and a racing seat with 5-point seat belts. Racers are also equipped with fireproof racing suits, gloves, and helmets with Head and Neck Support (HANS) devices.
Toyota said it applies similar rigorous safety standards to its road vehicles, which include features like Toyota Safety Sense, airbags, and various control systems.
Visayas private distributors offer lower power rates in May
By Alena Mae S. Flores
PRIVATE electric distribution utilities led by businessman Enrique Razon, Jr. continue to offer the most competitive electricity rates in the Visayas region.
In a statement, MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) — the exclusive electricity distribution utility in Iloilo City - said it has consistently maintained the lowest residential power rates in Panay Island and Guimaras for over 5 years. MORE Power’s residential rate stands at P11.13 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in May, lower than those of surrounding electric cooperatives: Iloilo Electric Cooperative I (ILECO I) at P12.53 per kWh, ILECO II at P12.25 per kWh, ILECO III at P11.27 per kWh, Aklan Electric Cooperative at P12.74 per kWh, Antique Electric Cooperative at P12.82/kWh, Capiz Electric Cooperative at P12.78 per kWh and Guimaras Electric Cooperative at P12.69 per kWh.
MORE Power said the trend extends to Negros Island where Negros Electric
and Power Corp. (Negros Power) — a joint venture of Primelectric Holdings, Inc. and Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO) — has, for 7 consecutive months since beginning operations in November 2024, offered signifi cantly lower rates. Negros Power’s rate is P11.69 per kWh in May , lower than those of neighboring cooperatives Northern Negros Electric Cooperative (NONECO) at P13.28 per kWh, Negros Occidental Electric Cooperative (NOCECO) at P12.02 per kWh, Negros Oriental Electric Cooperative 1 (NORECO 1) at P12.18 per kWh and NORECO 2 at P11.71 per kWh.
MORE Power and Negros Power president and chief executive Roel Castro said they were able to consistently offer low rates as a result of strategic power contracting through a competitive selection process (CSP), coupled with diligent and real-time monitoring of price movements in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).
TRANSPORTATION Secretary Vince Dizon lauded the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) for its swift and strict implementation of airport regulations following the arrest of a foreign national carrying illegal drugs at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 on Monday.
This fast action is in line with the President’s directive to airport authorities to ensure the safe and secure travel of passengers.
“We have repeatedly warned passengers not to bring prohibited items to the airport. If you are carrying drugs, you will be even more at risk. You will end up in jail,” Dizon said.
According to OTS, lighters were initially detected at the hand carried bag of passenger Koh Myungso of flight OZ 704 when it passed through the L3 x-ray machine at Lane 5 of the terminal at 9:50 pm.
During the manual search, suspected illegal drugs and paraphernalia were found at the passenger’s bag.
Upon testing using a chemical analyzer test kit, Koh yielded a positive result for methamphetamine, while further confirmation through K9 screening was conducted, which also turned a positive result.
The passenger was turned over by PNP Aviation Security Group (AVSEGROUP) to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for inquest proceedings on Wednesday. Darwin G. Amojelar
Mika Makino,
endorser Iya Villania-Arellano.
Toyota Motor Philippines president Masando Hashimoto is unharmed after his Vios race car struck a barrier and overturned during the 2025 Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippine Cup.
Meralco to deploy smart meters to all customers
By Alena Mae S. Flores
“AMI [advanced metering infrastructure] or smart metering technology is a game-changer in how we serve and empower our customers. Last year, we completed our preparatory activities for the massive rollout of smart meters,” Meralco
By Othel V. Campos
TOTAL premium income of the insurance sector in the Philippines surged 12.4 percent to 8.1 billion euros, or nearly three times higher than the previous year’s growth, according to the 2025 Insurance Report released by Allianz Philippines on Tuesday.
The strong performance was powered by a rebound in life insurance, which posted a 13.4-percent increase after two consecutive years of contraction.
Life insurance now accounts for nearly 70 percent of the domestic market, while the property and casualty (P&C) segment also showed sustained momentum, growing by 10.5 percent in 2024, up from 8.6 percent the year before.
Health insurance premiums rose 10.5 percent, normalizing after a dramatic 72.1 percent spike in 2023, but still representing only around 5 percent of the market.
Allianz expects this trajectory to continue, with the Philippine insurance market expected to grow at an annual rate of 9.2 percent through 2035, well above the country’s forecast nominal GDP growth of 8.1 percent.
This positions the country as one of the most dynamic insurance markets in Asia.
All key segments are expected to expand strongly in the Philippines, with life insurance expected to grow by 9.5 percent annually, supported by rising incomes, greater financial awareness, and the push for private retirement planning amid demographic shifts.
“This enables customers to monitor their electricity usage better and manage their consumption more efficiently. AMI also gives us better grid visibility, allowing us to detect outages or anomalies faster and to respond more quickly,” he said. He said Meralco initially approved 140,000 smart meters, mostly under the prepaid electricity program, within a small area of its franchise. Around 100,000 smart meters have been installed so far.
“We are about to deploy these smart meters at scale to eventually cover 100 percent of our customer base— aiming for at least 11 million smart meters to be deployed within the next decade,” he said.
He said they plan to spread the rollout due to cost consideration as a single meter costs around $100.
He said they are also waiting for the regulatory approval to roll out the smart meters because it is part of the retail aggregation program (RAP).
By Jenni er B. Austria
Ayala is re-issuing 5 million preferred B shares, with an overallotment option for another 5 million shares, subject to the company’s compliance with certain remaining requirements.
Ayala will offer the preferred shares at P2,000 apiece. Assuming the overallotment option is fully subscribed, the listed conglomerate could net up to P19.86 billion from the offer.
Proceeds will be used to repay its short-term bank loans as well as for general corporate purposes and capital expenditures. Assuming the oversubscription is exercised, Ayala will allot P11.5 billion for repayment of short term loan with Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and another P1.3 billion of partial repayment of another BPI short term loan.
The remaining P7 billion will be set aside for investment in power generation unit ACEN Corp., which is planning to conduct a stock rights offering.
The offer shares are expected to be re-issued and listed on the main board of the Philippine Stock Exchange on June 18, according to the latest timeline submitted to the SEC.
ONLINE job portal Jobstreet by SEEK has released new data highlighting the most in-demand job specializations for the first half of 2025.
Topping the list is accounting, which now accounts for 11.81 percent of total job postings.
Despite the strong demand for professionals in STEM-related fields, Jobstreet by SEEK noted that the supply of accounting talent still falls short of industry requirements. Information and communication technology (ICT) follows closely at 11.14 percent, with sales ranking third at 10.10 percent.
Both ICT and sales have remained consistently high in demand, as companies continue to seek talent to drive digital innovation and business growth.
Other popular job specializations include call center and customer service at 9.98 percent; manufacturing, transport and logistics, 8.12 percent; administration and office support, 6.43 percent; retail and consumer products, 5.40 percent; marketing and communications, 5.09 percent; human resources and recruitment; 5.09 percent; and, engineering at 4.74 percent.
Aside from accounting, sales and
marketing and communications saw the largest increase in job postings over the past three months.
Averaging 130,000 job posts per month, Jobstreet by SEEK continues to offer a range of entry-level roles on its platform.
“Jobstreet by SEEK is here to provide work for Filipinos because we believe that everyone deserves access to a job. Our goal is to empower every Filipino and help bridge the unemployment gap by connecting them with the right opportunities,” said Jobstreet by SEEK head of marketing Joey Yusingco. Othel V. Campos
Bulk
ROCKWELL Land Corp, the real estate arm of the Lopez Group, is accelerating its horizontal and geographic expansion strategy in 2025, led by strong market demand for premium developments outside Metro Manila.
Rockwell Land president and chief operating officer Valerie Soliven reported at the company’s annual stockholders meeting that first-quarter reservation sales reached P8.2 billion, boosted by growing demand for selfcontained residential communities and high-end residential developments.
“From the total Q1 2025 reservation sales this year, P3.5 billion is credited to the overwhelming response to Rockwell’s newly-launched horizontal projects,” Soliven said. Rockwell’s newly-launched projects, Samanean at Paradise Farms in Bulacan
and Molinillo at Rockwell Center in Lipa, saw rapid take-up of their first phases after their December 2024 launch.
Meanwhile, the 38-hectare Lauan Ridges by Rockwell in Mataasnakahoy, Lipa, Batangas, launched in February 2025, is already more than 50-percent sold.
“These results affirm the growing market demand for horizontal properties, enhanced by the elements of a thoughtfully curated self-contained community,” Soliven said. In Cebu, the company is expanding its presence through the mixed-use IPI Center Done Rockwell, following the acquisition of an adjacent 7,500-square meter lot. Rockwell also plans to launch a full-service hotel at Aruga Resort and Residences in Mactan. Jenniffer B. Austria
will also
P46.6 billion, lower than the 2024 spending of P56.2 billion, while AC Mobility will spend P3.8 billion this year, up by 125 percent from P1.7 billion in 2024 as it ramps up inventory,
IN BRIEF
PNOC president submits resignation STATE-RUN Philippine National Oil Co. (PNOC) president and chief executive Oliver Butalid said Wednesday he submitted his courtesy resignation in support of the President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s midterm recalibration and realignment of his administration.
“This is in response to a Notice to GOCCs issued by the Governance Commission for GOCCs dated May 26, 2025 and received May 28, 2025, clarifying that ‘CEOs and appointed members of GOCC governing boards’ are included in the President’s call for the courtesy resignation of all heads of agencies,” the company said in a statement. Butalid was appointed to his post on July 3, 2023. PNOC
INFRASTUCTURE. AC Mobility chief executive Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala (second from right) leads the ribbon-cutting ceremony during the launching of EV charging network at the Corinthian Parking lot in Makati City on May 27, 2025. Joining him are (from left) Ayala Land Estates group head Christopher Maglanoc, ACMobility infrastructure head
Carla Buencamino and Makati Central Estate Association (MACEA) treasurer Jojo Tolentino. Makati now hosts 70 charge points across 16 strategic locations—including One Ayala, Greenbelt, and Glorietta—with plans to expand to over 100 charge points in 22 areas. Joseph Muego
Francis Kong cites power of learning and adaptability
By Julie Ann Lope
MORE than 300 people attended a lecture by renowned business speaker Francis Kong titled “Reset, Reinvest and Rise – A Modern Blueprint for Business and Personal Breakthrough” at the St. Stephen’s High School Auditorium in Manila on May 24, 2025.
The event was organized by the Federation of Filipino Chinese Alumni Associations Inc. (FFCAAI) in cooperation with the Uno High School Alumni Association Inc.
Kong shared valuable insights drawn from his personal journey and broad experience in business.
Aside from being a sought-after speaker, Kong is also a broadcaster, author, entrepreneur, and multiawarded achiever.
He cited the need to adapt to change in today’s fast-paced world by resetting, reinventing and rising.
“Businesses are being hit by changes from all directions now, unlike before when change was linear and easier to project,” Kong said.
He discussed major global disrup-
tions including economic, geo-political, technological, demographic and climate-related challenges.
Addressing the rise of artificial intelligence, he said: “Don’t be afraid of AI. Don’t be afraid of something you don’t know. Learn, and your fear will disappear.”
“If you don’t go with the flow, you’ll be left behind,” he said.
Kong also spoke about the importance of keeping pace with consumer behavior trends, such as the growing influence of youth in emerging markets, the spending potential of retirees, the squeezed but splurging middle class who seek value in products, the boom in brand exploration, social commerce, and a global shift toward wellness.
“Health is the new wealth. Peace is the new rich. Kindness is the new cool,” he said, describing what he called the worldwide wellness wave.
On the topic of generational differences, Kong said communication and collaboration between young and old are essential.
“Children bring energy, adults bring wisdom—collaboration works when
PH Long Se Lee sustains support for education
THE Philippine Long Se Lee Association held its 91st anniversary celebration and the induction of its 22nd and 23rd officers at the Century Park Hotel Seafood Restaurant on May 24, 2025. Li Zhong Ming was elected as the new president of the association. Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) president Victor Lim and honorary president Dr. Cecilio Pedro and its other staff were present during the event.
Lim lauded the late Li Rong Mei, father of the new president, for his important contributions to FFCCCII, especially in cultural and educational work.
Li founded the “Lost Filipino-Chinese Students Grant Project,” which helps students in need.
Lim said the Li family is the second largest in China, with 120 million people as of 2025, making up 7.41 percent of the population. The famous Tang Dynasty, which lasted 289 years, was also founded by the Li family.
To continue his father’s legacy, newly elected president Li Zhong Ming donated P1 million through the Li Rong Mei Education Foundation.
The donation will support the student grant project and other education programs for Filipino-Chinese youth.
Michael Wong Ho
By Othel V. Campos
THE Association for Philippines–China Understanding (APCU) will stage the 5th Awards for Promoting Philippines–China Understanding (APPCU) on June 3, 2025, at the Fiesta Pavilion of the Manila Hotel. This year’s edition pays tribute to 12 distinguished Filipinos whose efforts have helped build bridges between the peoples of the Philippines and China through cultural diplomacy, public service, education, and community leadership.
APCU, in partnership with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Philippines,
APCU
spearheads the awards as part of its broader mission to deepen bilateral understanding through dialogue, cultural and academic exchanges, sister-city partnerships and business cooperation.
“The purpose of APPCU is to highlight how individuals, not just institutions or governments, have actively contributed to fostering goodwill and understanding between our two nations. We are not here to politicize the relationship. We are here to bridge the divide between the Filipino and Chinese people,” said
we properly communicate,” he said.
He also warned the young generation to choose wisely who they listen to.
Kong encouraged parents to be more expressive and supportive, particularly in traditional Chinese families where emotional expression is often restrained.
“In front of my kids, I’d purposely show affection to my wife. I wish more Chinese families would be more expressive,” he said.
He reminded the audience on the importance of love, faith and family values.
“No matter what changes happen, love God, and love your neighbors. Honor your parents. And husbands, your wives are your closest neighbors,” Kong said.
PH to benefit from US-China tariff war—expert
By Michael Wong Ho
THE ongoing tariff war between China and the United States has disrupted global trade flows, but it also presents an economic opportunity for the Philippines, according to Dr. Ser Percival K. Peña-Reyes, director of the Ateneo Center for Economic Research and Development (ACERD).
In an interview with Philippine Dragon News Network on May 7, 2025, Reyes said the tariff war causes trade problems between China and the U.S., but is a big opportunity for the Philippines.
On May 12, both countries agreed to lower tariffs.
The U.S. reduced its tariff on Chinese goods to 34 percent and paused 24 percent of that tariff for 90 days.
In return, China cut its tariff on U.S. goods from 34 percent to 10 percent and also paused 24 percent of the original tariff for 90 days.
Reyes said the 17 percent tariff between the Philippines and the U.S. is low compared to other nearby countries—only Singapore has a lower rate at 10 percent.
Because of the tariff war, China and the U.S. need new suppliers and
markets, he said. This gives the Philippines a “window of opportunity” to receive manufacturing transfers from China.
Reyes said the Philippines could attract Chinese investors, especially in areas like agricultural technology, manufacturing, electric vehicles, optoelectronics, electronics, shoes, garments, accessories, toys, semiconductors, power supply and telecom equipment.
To take full advantage of the shift, Reyes urged the Philippine government to act swiftly and strategically.
He said the Philippine government should treat foreign investors well, avoid causing problems for them, reduce corruption and create a friendly environment to welcome manufacturing transfers from China.
Authentic Inner Mongolian flavors arrive in Makati
YUMMY BBQ Buffet has brought the authentic flavors of Inner Mongolia to Makati City, quickly becoming a popular dining spot since it began trial operations in January 2025.
The restaurant is located on the 2nd floor of Wilcon IT Hub along Chino Roces Ave.
Yummy BBQ Buffet offers two main dining experiences: hot pot and barbecue, combining traditional Mongolian recipes with modern technology.
APCU chairman Raul Lambino in a pre-event briefing.
The event coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries and will feature performances from the Chinese Cultural Courier in the Philippines.
Established on January 16, 2021, during a virtual inauguration graced by Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the APPCU has since become a platform for recognizing meaningful
It uses German-imported Far Infrared Ray technology, which heats food quickly and evenly from the inside out. It helps keep the meat tender and juicy by reducing water loss. The smokeless system also ensures a clean and comfortable dining experience. The equipment is easy to use, with simple temperature controls. It has a 98.7-percent fume conversion rate and is SGS certified, so diners can enjoy their meals with confidence.
people-to-people engagement.
“We don’t want to award someone whose record might be viewed as contradictory to the spirit of bilateral friendship. Our counterpart organizations in China also expect due diligence,” Lambino said.
This year’s 12 laureates showcased a broad range of contributions including Hall of Famer former Senator Anna Dominique MarquezLim Coseteng, for her lifetime of service and advocacy in strengthening cultural and diplomatic ties. Business leader Dominic Edgard
The buffet features an impressive selection of fresh ingredients, including beef, lamb, pork, chicken, seafood, desserts, and fried rice.
Yummy BBQ offers a wide selection of fresh ingredients, including beef, lamb, pork, chicken, seafood, a variety of desserts, and fried rice.
One of its standout specialties is premium lamb sourced from the Xilingele Grasslands of Inner Mongolia. Known for its perfect balance of lean and fat, the lamb is air-shipped daily via a dedicated cold-chain system.
Each morning, fresh lamb is flown across the South China Sea and delivered to the restaurant within 16 hours, ensuring it reaches diners’ tables in peak condition.
In addition to its buffet offerings, Yummy BBQ serves a range of authentic Mongolian dishes which include belly-wrapped meat, where lamb tripe encases lamb leg and is stewed for four hours; blood casing, made from sheep casing filled with lamb blood or minced meat; and shredded lamb, a rich dish made by slow-stewing sheep neck meat and bones for six hours
With its blend of modern technology, premium ingredients and traditional flavors, Yummy BBQ Buffet offers a unique dining experience that captures the spirit of Mongolian hospitality.
Julie Ann Lope
Cabangon, chairman of ALC Group of Companies and Maynard Ngu, Special Envoy of the President to the People’s Republic of China for Trade, Investments and Tourism are recognized for Outstanding Contributions.
Acknowledged for Major Contributions are Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, for fostering city-level cooperation with China; Ng Siu Seng, President of Asahi Hi Quality Food Mfg. Inc.; Joaquin Sy, multi-awarded writer and translator in Filipino, English, and Chinese; and Teodorico Nebres Dofiles, executive assistant for International Affairs of the City Mayor of Digos City.
Renowned business speaker Francis Kong speaks at the St. Stephen’s High School Auditorium in Manila on May 24, 2025.
Yummy BBQ Buffet becomes a a popular dining spot since it began trial operations in Makati City in January 2025.
The Philippine Long Se Lee Association holds its 91st anniversary celebration and the induction of its 22nd and 23rd officers at the Century Park Hotel Seafood Restaurant on May 24, 2025.
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA
VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER
VALDEZ, Writer
OPM’s finest
Freddie Aguilar’s legacy lives on through timeless songs
THE death of Freddie Aguilar at age 72 in the morning of May 27 somehow gave us time to reflect and appreciate the man’s music — his truth, which makes him a true legend.
winner.
essentially great. It’s immaterial to do a ranking, as these 10 in random order can create a vivid picture of his body of musical work.
Amid his foray into politics and his controversial life choices, Ka Freddie was an artist whose achievements and aura couldn’t be underplayed. There will never be another “Ka Freddie,” nor will the place of “Anak” in Philippine music history ever be threatened. In 2019, I met the man in person and wrote about him in this same column after we tackled the birth of “Anak.” Both my bands, The Pub Forties, able to perform at his bar along Morato Avenue in Quezon City. I prefer to pay respect by honoring songs he wrote or interpreted that made him
Anak — One evening after playing billiards with his close friend Roger Flores whose son Jay used to be my bandmate, the Pinoy folk hero started talking about his signature piece, noting how special his live version was at the first-ever Metropop Song Festival. He recalled that his career was on the line that day, and then he certainly nailed it. The judges, however, didn’t even place his finalist entry in the Top Three. It won the support of the public anyway, becoming — drum roll, please — the best-selling Filipino record of all time. It has also been translated into 51 languages.
Bayan Ko — Aguilar was not the composer of “Bayan Ko,” whose origin dates back to the Philippine-American War. But modern society has accepted his rendition as definitive, elevated as an anthem against tyranny. Here in the States, it’s not surprising to hear Filipino-American singers do their own version during events to express their love and care for the country.
Magdalena — One of the singer-songwriter’s most beautiful tunes, this song is sung with gravitas; it makes the phrase “kalapating mababa ang lipad” touchingly emphatic, while the notable red district in the City of Manila, as mentioned, appears cinematic Estudyante Blues — For a time when I was a school grader, you could hear this on the radio over and over. In just two verses, relaying the tale of a disgruntled youth feeling trapped living under the watch of their strict and detached parents, the number sends the scathing message straight home, wrapped in a deliriously upbeat rhythm. It spawned a 1989 movie of the same title, which, by the way, is never stated in the song.
Minamahal Kita — In 1993, the year this song was released, I spent the summer in Claveria, Masbate, at the house of my granduncle we called Lolo Jun. He would sing along each time he heard this, thennew tune. Many years later, I would meet Ka Freddie’s co-composer, and he said it was a highlight of his life to work with a decorated musician.
Pinoy — The electric guitar work here is effective in its simplicity and strong recall, appropriately serving the melody run that you can groove to the song while feeling that sense of Filipino pride. When it comes to being patriotic, the country’s most legendary folk singer could deliver whether in kundiman or pop-rock.
Kumusta Ka — With the enormous success of his songwriting, Ka Freddie’s singing — the bare beauty of his voice — is often overshadowed. Here, his vocal sweeps through, which paves the way for the seamless flow of the melody.
Ipaglalaban Ko — At a press conference to launch an album that included his repurposed version of this track, which was used to promote the candidacy of a populist leader, Ka Freddie said that a jingle should already be a famous tune because campaign periods are short. This is a cerebral love song that I felt was undermined by its attachment to politics. Nevertheless, it remains to be the singer’s finest romantic ballad.
Napupuyat — This track may be described as a piece of country music with Tagalog lyrics. For its hooky chorus that repeats the title in quick-fun succession, it’s a pity it did not become as classic as, say, “Estudyante Blues.”
Decorated prison drama
FOLLOWING its success at the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) in December, GMA Network’s critically acclaimed film Green Bones will be available to stream worldwide on Netflix
beginning June 19.
Dennis Trillo MMFF. Directed by of found a
Produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs in partnership with Brightburn Entertainment, the film stars and Ruru Madrid , who earned Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor awards, respectively, at the Zig Dulay and based on an original concept by GMA Public Affairs senior documentary manager JC Rubio, Green Bones tells the story of Domingo Zamora (Trillo), a prisoner serving time for the murder of his sister. As his release nears, a newly assigned prison guard, Xavier Gonzaga (Madrid), takes it upon himself to prevent Zamora from gaining his freedom. The film draws from a belief that greencolored bones found in human remains signify a life lived with goodness. The ensemble cast includes Michael de Mesa, Ronnie Lazaro, Wendell Ramos, and Alessandra de Rossi . The film also features the special participation of Iza Calzado and Nonie Buencamin o. In addition to the acting honors for Trillo and Madrid, Green Bones won Best Picture, Best Screenplay for National Artist Ricky Lee and Angeli Atienza, Best Cinematography for Neil Daza , and Best Child Performer for Sienna Stevens at the MMFF.
Bulag, Pipi At Bingi — The respected music industry figure Snaffu Rigor wrote this track that allowed Freddie Aguilar to become the interpreter of an eventual Metropop
Syato and were
Critically-acclaimed film ‘Green Bones’ stars Dennis Trillo (left) and Ruru Madrid
Though he has passed, Freddie Aguilar’s music will continue to resonate across generations
Freddie passed away on Tuesday, May 27, at the age of 72
98 Degrees’ ‘Full Circle’ moment in Manila
By Angelica Villanueva
LONG before boy band 98 Degrees topped charts at home, it was the Philippines that gave the group its first taste of stardom—and the feeling, they say, never left.
During a press conference ahead of their two-night concert at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on May 30 and 31, members Nick and Drew Lachey, Justin Jeffre, and Jeff Timmons shared how Filipino fans embraced them long before they gained momentum in the United States.
“We’re happy to be back here in the Philippines. We have an affinity for this place. We broke here before anywhere else, and we have the most success here. We are thrilled to be back after 25 years,” Jeff said.
Known for ballads like “Because of You” and “I Do (Cherish You),” the members of the group recalled how Filipino fans gave them their earliest taste of global stardom.
“We got off the airplane, and we came to the airport, and there was a mob of people waiting for us. It was like our first moment of feeling like actual rock stars,” shared Drew, reflecting on the band’s early days.
After 25 years, the fans, the hospitality, and the love that the members have received remain the same.
“We’ve been here a little over 24 hours, and they have treated us like kings the entire time we’ve been here. In fact, we were like, man, we just might not go home,” Drew added.
For 98 Degrees, performing in Manila is more than a tour stop. It’s a return to the place where it all began.
The members said they’re always flattered when their music is part of life’s most intimate moments, especially in every Filipino wedding.
LIFE & SHOWBIZ
“I think that’s one of the biggest honors you can have is after we’ve been out for so long, still have our songs to be used in people’s special moments and special events. You know, we do our love songs. So we’re very, very flattered by that,” Justin shared.
“It’s always nice to be a part of someone’s life, right? Not just a song that they like but a part of their personal history,” added Jeff.
While some markets ask for more upbeat tracks, the boy band noted the Philippines’ enduring love for ballads.
“You guys embrace the ballads and the love songs, and that makes us feel like, you know, 98 Degrees is kind of special to the Philippines, and this audience is sort of meant for us in a way,” said Drew.
98 Degrees will be performing both its classic hits and new tracks from its latest album, Full Circle , which includes five original songs and five re-recorded fan favorites.
Miriam College, Medical City launch school-based HPV vaccination drive
MIRIAM College and The Medical City have partnered to roll out a school-based vaccination drive aimed at protecting students, faculty, and families against cervical cancer and other preventable diseases, in a push to address low HPV immunization rates in the Philippines.
The event, held at the Quezon City campus, marked the college’s first comprehensive vaccination program and The Medical City’s first collaboration of this kind with a private school. The initiative offered free doses of HPV, influenza, and pneumonia vaccines to about 300 recipients, including students, school staff, parents, and senior citizens.
The move follows a summit hosted by Miriam College in March that urged private schools to play a larger role in HPV awareness and prevention. HPV, or Human Papilloma Virus, is the leading cause of cervical cancer, which kills an estimated 12 Filipino women each day, according to the World Health Organization. Only 33 percent of eligible girls in the Philippines complete the vaccine series, WHO data shows.
“Because we’re a girls’ school, HPV vaccination is especially important,” said Sofia Soledad De Guzman principal of Miriam College High School. “This shows we’re serious about our mission to prioritize health alongside education.”
The vaccines were administered by The Medical City, which used the nonavalent HPV vaccine that protects against nine cancer-causing strains.
The program supports WHO’s 2030 target of fully vaccinating 90 percent of girls against HPV by age 15.
Dr. Christopher Napoleon Delos
Reyes, The Medical City’s Group Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer, said the initiative promotes longterm preventive healthcare.
“By working with schools like Miriam College, we’re able to make vaccination more accessible and encourage healthy habits among the next generation,” Delos Reyes said.
Parents and students said the drive eliminated logistical hurdles, allowing easier access to essential vaccines.
“As a mom of three girls, I had concerns at first, but now I’m convinced the HPV vaccine is safe,” said Macky Fernando, whose daughter Maia received her first dose during the event. “Having it at school made it so convenient.”
The program was supported by healthcare company MSD in the Philippines.
Miriam College Grade School principal Kristine Lesaca-Saludez said the school’s efforts aim to impact not only students but the wider community.
“We believe in the power of education to transform entire communities. A healthy village raises a healthy child,” she said.
Where do modern mompreneurs turn to grow their businesses while managing family life?
A GROUP of Filipina entrepreneurs is using artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline business operations while balancing family life, following training from Gemini Academy, a program backed by PLDT Home and Google Philippines. Held on March 5 to mark Women’s Month, the “Ayan na! AI na!” initiative equipped members of the Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) community with tools to integrate generative AI into daily tasks. The move has allowed small business owners to improve content creation, customer service, and operational efficiency without hiring additional staff.
Jenielyn Sicabalo-Nieva, founder of MP Nieva’s Flower Company, said the training helped her team enhance their social media output and respond to customers more quickly.
“We’re now better at making content for social media to promote the business,” she said.
Gemini, Google’s AI platform, is being used in several key areas by participants, including:
and marketing effectiveness. These insights enable better inventory management, product development, and campaign timing, allowing entrepreneurs to make informed business decisions more quickly.
3. Scheduling and time management
AI tools are also helping participants manage busy schedules by syncing business tasks with personal responsibilities. “Gemini has become my virtual partner, research assistant, marketing team, and creative writer,” said Bernadette Lim, founder of BC Fragrance. “It helps me move faster and smarter, maximizing my limited time at work since I’m also hands-on with my daughter.”
4. Meal planning and grocery lists
Some mompreneurs are using AI to simplify household management. Gemini can generate recipes and shopping lists based on available ingredients or dietary goals, helping them save time and maintain healthier routines for their families.
1. Writing captions that convert to sales Lea Daras, who runs Jathniel’s Specialty and The FloraCraft Project, said AI tools have helped her craft more persuasive marketing messages.
“AI helps me write convincing captions on social media, which is important to convert views to sales,” she said.
Melissa Moscoso of Xavier&Xandrei added that Gemini helped her create engaging content and visuals for her eco-friendly products. “It also enabled me to bring my ideas to life by creating images that perfectly capture my vision,” she said.
Abby Cruz, who runs Momi Bigbig Kitchen, credited Gemini for boosting her sales through improved promotional materials for online sellers.
2. Analyzing business data
Participants also use AI to assess sales trends, customer behavior,
“Google’s generative AI tools, such as Gemini, are designed to reclaim valuable time. With Gemini acting as a powerful assistant, we hope to empower more people to achieve greater efficiency, both personally and professionally,” said Prep Palacios, Head of Industry at Google Philippines.
Founded to provide business opportunities and education for Filipino mothers, Madiskarte Moms PH counts more than 200,000 members and has trained 15,000 mompreneurs. It has also received industry recognition, including a Silver Award from the Asia Pacific Stevie Awards, a Grand Anvil from the Public Relations Society of the Philippines, and a Gold Award from the ASEAN PR Network. The group continues to partner with local and global firms to promote digital upskilling and womenled entrepreneurship across the Philippines.
The Medical City and Miriam College team gather at the Quezon City campus to mark
A student proudly shows her HPV vaccine voucher alongside her mom and a friend during the campuswide vaccination rollout
Graduates of the Gemini Academy training program pose with their certificates at Google Philippines after learning to apply AI tools in their businesses
From left: 98 Degrees’ Drew Lachey, Justin Jeffre, Nick Lachey, and Jeff Timmons return to the Philippines ahead of their two-night concert to celebrate their roots and connect with longtime Filipino fans
THURSDAY, MAY 29, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
UWellness pillars unveil campaign focused on everyday care
NILAB reminds the public that in a time when people juggle work, family, and daily responsibilities, showing we care remains one of the simplest yet most meaningful ways to connect.
At the launch of the pharmaceutical company’s partnership with Watsons, Alex Panlilio, Unilab’s corporate vice president and head of corporate branding and social partnerships, says the company’s new campaign began with a true story—a mother’s quiet, consistent care for her child. It was this real-life account that inspired the 80th anniversary video, now the heart of the “Share the Alaga” campaign. “It was important for us to bring our Alagang Unilab promise to life in a meaningful way,” Panlilio said of the story that inspired a video that now anchors Unilab’s 80th anniversary message.
Instead of focusing on medical breakthroughs or product expansions, Unilab chose to highlight care in its most familiar form—present, personal, and often unspoken.
The campaign embraces moments that happen every day: a pharmacist patiently offering advice, a promo that eases the cost of essentials, or a brand ambassador treating each customer like more than just a transaction.
The partnership with Watsons, the country’s largest health and beauty retailer, brings this message directly to consumers. Through in-store activations, digital platforms, and community medical missions, the campaign weaves together Unilab’s values—Husay, Malasakit, and Bayanihan—in ways that meet people where they are. It’s a strategy built on continuity, not spectacle.
Unilab president and CEO Backy Baquiran emphasized that the company’s purpose remains rooted in service. “We mark 80 years of commitment to the Filipino people,” he said. “Our legacy is not just in medicine, but in our enduring promise to extend Alagang Unilab.”
For Baquiran, what matters most
SHARE THE ALAGA.
A touching scene from Unilab’s anniversary video, rooted in the real story of how it all began
METRO Pacific Investments Corp’s (MPIC) digital health unit, mWell, has rolled out a corporate wellness program designed to help businesses monitor and improve employee health.
The program, Wellness@Work, includes a digital platform that allows human resources teams to track staff participation in health initiatives and identify trends using an AIpowered corporate scoreboard. The system measures physical activity and mental health indicators such as stress and emotional wellbeing.
“Companies, big or small, must invest in employee health to improve productivity and reduce healthcare costs,” said mWell president Chaye Cabal-Revilla, who also serves as MPIC’s Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer. MPIC is one of the Philippines’ largest infrastructure investment firms.
Unhealthy employees are twice as likely to be disengaged at work, mWell said, citing figures from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It noted that productivity losses from absenteeism and presenteeism cost employers an estimated $1,685 per employee annually.
The new program comes amid a growing demand for integrated workplace health solutions, especially in light of occupational safety regulations from the Department of Labor and Employment. It also reflects efforts to address mental health concerns in the workplace.
isn’t just what the company offers, but how it offers it—with competence, compassion, and collective action.
Watsons Philippines managing director Danny Chiong echoed that sentiment.
“Through this partnership, we are able to bring the spirit of ‘alaga’ even closer to Filipinos—whether they shop in-store or online,” he said, noting the alignment with Watsons’ own vision of helping customers do good, look good, and feel great.
“As we open this campaign to the public and the media, our hope is that Share The Alaga becomes more than just a message—it
becomes a movement, one that echoes the very reason Unilab exists: because caring is not just what we do, it’s who we are,” noted Melo Villaroman, corporate vice president and head of Sales & Customer Development at Unilab. Over the coming weeks, the campaign rolls out initiatives including “All Out Alaga Day,” store-wide promos, raffle draws, and nationwide medical missions. But behind the events and promotions lies a deeper intent: to shift the conversation about health care away from product-focused messaging and back to human connection.
Very Wang Nickie Wang
mWell president Chaye Cabal-Revilla (standing) speaks on how the platform
Unilab and Watsons executives discuss how their partnership centers on everyday acts of care at the ‘Share the Alaga’ campaign launch
Watsons presents a commemorative artwork to Unilab as a gesture of appreciation for their shared advocacy on care and service
Executives from Unilab and Watsons gather to mark the official launch of their joint campaign that emphasizes accessible and consistent care