Manila Standard - 2025 June 7 - Saturday

Angara leaves it up to Congress to keep

or

scrap SHS program

By Pot Chavez

“There

PNP resurrecting probe into PCSO official's slay

EDUCATION Secretary Sonny Angara admitted yesterday that the K to 12 program has produced lackluster results and left it to Congress to scrap the senior high school (SHS) curriculum. The admission came as Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada filed a measure seeking to rationalize

By Rio N. Araja

TBy Charles Dantes, Ram Superable, and Maricel Cruz

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

On Sunday, PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil said he ordered the reopening of the cold case after whistleblower Police Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza told the House Quad Committee that he

the basic education system in the country by removing the SHS, citing reason that it “still has not fully achieved its goal” to produce skilled and job-ready graduates 12 years after the enactment of Republic Act No. 10533, also known as the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013.

Department of Political Science and Development Studies said that further delaying the impeachment “erodes public trust” and mocks the “mechanisms of accountability” in the Constitution.

rally set to push for impeach trial start

planning of the murder.

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

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

Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry

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

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

adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

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

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

“I am very interested in how they [Quad Comm members] can prove this criminal network in court. In Congress, lawmakers act as both prosecutor and judge,” he said. Yang, who already admitted having a fake Philippine birth certificate, is the brother of Michael Yang, a presidential economic

By Darwin G. Amojelar

FILIPINO consumers turned more pessimistic about the economy in the first quarter of 2025, mostly because

By Darwin Amojelar

By Rex Espiritu

and his long-time protege in Philippine Airlines, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Bobby Lim, are at the center of the storm after it was

Jobless rate inches up in April, says PSA

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

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

of concerns over accelerating inflation, declining incomes and fewer job prospects, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. The BSP's latest Consumer Expectations Survey (CES) showed

Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal

By Rex Espiritu

sage of the RAA.

of illegal drugs and illegal activities associated with POGOs,” Suarez said in a mixture of Filipino and English.

The solons explained how the matrix details Yang’s connections to other individuals involved in illicit activities, including the operations of illegal POGOs.

Among the companies implicated are Brickhartz Technology Inc. and Xionwei Technology Co. Ltd., which are being linked to alleged kidnapping.

The two firms supposedly have connections with the Baofu Compound in Bamban, Tarlac, which, in turn, can be directly traced to disgraced ex-mayor Alice Guo.

During Friday’s Quad Comm hearing, lawmakers cited Tony Yang in contempt for “lying” to about his businesses and business partners.

the overall consumer confidence index (CI) dropped to -13 percent in the first quarter of 2025 from -11.1 percent in the previous quarter and

By Joel E. Zurbano and Ram Superable

MILITANT groups, civil society organizations, and members of religious congregations will mount a three-day major rally and vigil from June 9 (Monday) to June 11, (Wednesday) to call on the Senate to proceed with the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

THE Philippine government on Sunday publicly called for the United Nations (UN) to give it a seat on the UN Security Council, highlighting the country’s strong record and dedication to upholding the rule of law.

"We expect larger mobilization efforts. These are times when citizens need to take action. Our institutions and political elites are unwilling to act, so the responsibility falls to the people," former Bayan Muna partylist Rep. Teddy Casiño said.

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo in a speech delivered at the UN General Assembly in New York said the Philippines continues to emphasize the “importance of upholding the rule of law and the integrity of the

"This matter is not just about being anti-Duterte or pro-Marcos. Even those who are neutral or do not have a position on either side see that the process is being disrespected, that justice is not being served, and that our elected officials are not doing their jobs. These individuals will also rise up for justice,” he added.

The Tindig Pilipinas coalition said an ecumenical gathering and people’s march will be launched on Monday from the Film Center to the Senate gate.

On Tuesday, June 10, a people’s vigil will be held at the Senate and on June 11—the day the Senate is expected

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

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

“This agreement follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen partnerships with likeminded countries. It is a step forward to building a trusted and reliable defense relationship, helping both countries contribute to a free, open, and peaceful Indo-Pacific region,” DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement.

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

Two Chinese warships were monitored at a distance ranging from eight to 14 nautical miles. One of these went up to 1,000 yards at the MMCA site but even

tually went away. “It was not threatening, just normal,”

PAGASA

House leaders Aurelio Gonzales and David Suarez presented this matrix during the last QUAD Comm hearing which shows the operations of a criminal syndicate allegedly led by fugitive Michael Yang, then economic adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte, that controlled the illegal activities of the POGOs and was involved in the drug trade and extrajudicial killings.

A DAY OF PRAYER. Thousands of Filipino Muslims gather yesterday to pray and celebrate Eid-al Adha or the Festival of the Sacrifice, an Islamic holiday, at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila. Norman Cruz

Former Supreme Court Justice Adolf Azcuna Former Supreme Court Justice Jose C. Vitug

Comelec Commissioner Luis Tito De Guia

Former Rep. Erin Tanada San Beda law Dean Fr. Ranhillo Aquino

Government Tony La Vina

Fuel prices to rise by P0.90/l next week

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy forecasts an oil price hike across all petroleum products of as much as P0.90 per liter next week amid continued geopolitical tensions.

DOE Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) director Rodela Romero said yesterday that as a result of the monitoring on the 4-day trading in Mean of Platts Singapore, the

3-day...

From A1

to begin the trial of the Vice President – will be the “Day of Action for Truth and Accountability” with the rally call: “Malakas ang Ebidensya, Litisan na si Sara” or “The Evidence is Strong, Start the Trial of Sara.”

The coalition is composed of groups such as the Akbayan partylist, the Mamamayang Liberal party-list, the Magdalo party-list, the Buhay ang People Power Campaign Network, and the Student Council Alliance of the Philippines.

In a statement released by Radyo Veritas on Thursday, Fr. Flavie Villanueva said letting the trial commence is “imperative” on the part of incumbent senators of the 19th Congress.

“Impeachment is a moral obligation. Impeachment delayed, justice denied,” Villanueva said.

He said members of the Catholic Church will also hold a three-day prayer vigil scheduled from June 9 to 11 next week to push for the long-delayed impeachment trial of

San Beda...

From A1

In a statement, they expressed dismay at what they called "deliberate foot-dragging" in convening the Senate as an impeachment court.

“We express our deep disgust and grave concern over the protracted delay in convening the Senate as an Impeachment Court to try the case against Vice President Sara Duterte," they added.

They also said the delay "reflects an active political maneuvering" that undermines a mechanism to hold top government officials accountable.

For its part, the Union of Peoples’ Lawyers in Mindanao (UPLM) reminded Senators that the Constitution imposes on them a solemn, non-

Pinoys...

From A1

A negative CI means more respondents are pessimistic than optimistic.

The current quarter CI, however, was better than during the peak of COVID-19 effects in the third quarter of 2020, when it registered an alltime low of -54.4 percent.

It has yet to return to the positive levels observed from the third quarter of 2019 to the first quarter of 2020, the BSP said.

"Consumer confidence has been strongly influenced by stable inflation and favorable labor market conditions. Accordingly, consumer sentiment would benefit from coordinated efforts across relevant government agencies and the private sector to address inflationary pressures and support employment,” the BSP said.

Similarly, consumers in the euro area, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and the United States were also more pessimistic this year.

The results gleaned from the CES help the BSP formulate monetary policy. In response to the survey results,

Angara...

From A1

In a statement, Angara pointed out that the Department of Education (DepEd) is set to implement changes in the SHS this school year 20252026, through the pilot run of the revised SHS curriculum.

pricing benchmark use by oil importers, and recent developments in the international oil market, “we will be expecting an increase in the domestic pump prices by next.”

Duterte.

While the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines has yet to issue a statement, its social action arm, Caritas Philippines, in March added its voice to the growing push for the Senate to initiate the impeachment trial as soon as possible.

“Once an impeachment complaint is filed, government institutions must act swiftly and decisively,” said Caritas Philippines president Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo of Kidapawan.

“Delays and hesitations in the process only weaken our democratic institutions and erode public trust in governance,” he said. “The people are watching, and they deserve to see their leaders prioritize truth and accountability above political maneuvering.”

The Senate received the Articles of Impeachment from the House of Representatives on February 5.

Based on Escudero’s proposed calendar, House prosecutors should have presented the articles of impeachment on June 2, but this was moved to June 11.

This pushed back the timeline,

discretionary duty.

“On February 5, 2025, the 19th Congress received the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte. From that moment, the Senate had no choice but to act. And yet, invoking the midterm elections as a convenient excuse, it failed to convene as an impeachment court,” the group said in a Friday statement.

Likewise, lawyers Burt Estrada, Paolo Tamase, and Felix Desiderio, Jr., also said the Senate must begin the trial.

Estrada, former national president of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), admitted there is a delay contrary to the 1987 Constitution, such that the "trial should already proceed."

He believes the impeachment pro-

the BSP reiterated its commitment to its mandates, among which is helping keep inflation manageable.

Based on its latest estimates, inflation—or the increase in prices of goods and services—is expected to remain manageable and within the target range of 2 percent to 4 percent from 2025 to 2027.

Within-target inflation supports investments and job creation, it was explained.

Aside from their current sentiment, consumers were also asked about their sentiment for the succeeding quarter and the next 12 months.

Survey results indicated that consumer sentiment for the next quarter reverted to negative territory, with the CI settling at -0.5 percent, down from 4.2 percent in the previous quarter and 2.7 percent in the first quarter of last year.

Consumers expect economic prospects to improve in the next 12 months.

Survey results showed a positive CI at 12.4 percent for the next 12 months, unchanged from the previous quarter but slightly lower than the 13.4 percent recorded in the first quarter last year.

“The implementation [of the SHS program] in the last decade leaves plenty to be desired. There were too many subjects and… they have been unable to choose subjects,” he wrote in Filipino.

“Having said that, the decision to continue with the SHS program or not rests with Congress,” he added.

Romero estimates the increase at P0.15 to P0.60 per liter for gasoline, P0.50 to P0.90 per liter for diesel and P0.25 to P0.40 per liter for kerosene.

She said this can be attributed to “persistent geopolitical tensions” such as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine; and US and Iran nuclear deal; supply concerns with production in Canada disrupted by the wildfires; and state of US crude oil inventories after a larger-than-anticipated drawdown.

Jetti Petroleum president Leo Bel-

including the issuance of a summons to the Vice President and the pre-trial phase.

For his part, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said the impeachment trial will “definitely carry over into the 20th Congress” contrary to the opinion of some of his colleagues.

“It is part of the Senate’s mandate to continue the hearings of the impeachment court since it is a continuing body," he said.

Gatchalian said the impeachment process is an independent undertaking, separate from the Senate’s usual legislative functions.

The senator said that once convened, the schedule of the Senate as an impeachment court effectively overrides all regular Senate business.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, citing constitutional provisions, supported the view that the impeachment trial must begin immediately after the House prosecutors submit the required articles.

The phrase “shall forthwith proceed,” found in the Constitution, signifies the urgency with which the Senate must act, she said.

ceedings can carry over from the 19th Congress to the 20th Congress, as it is a continuing body, especially when it comes to non-legislative functions.

According to the lawyer, this issue can be avoided if the senators amend their rules to accommodate a speedy and continuous daily trial to have the trial end before June 30.

"I also subscribe to the position that as a court, like the judicial courts, the impeachment court is the same court despite the change in the composition of the justices or the presiding judge," Estrada said.

He noted that the Supreme Court (SC) can settle the legal questions "if there is grave abuse of discretion in accordance with the Court’s expanded power of judicial review."

"I’m not prepared to say if it constitutes grave abuse, but it certainly

Japan’s...

From A1

Japan's first RAA with a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations will ease restrictions on personnel transfers between Japan’s Self-Defense Forces (SDF) and the Philippine military for joint drills and disaster relief operations in each other's country.

Once the RAA takes effect, Japan will be able to participate as a full member in the large-scale Balikatan military exercise, which the Philippines and the United States conduct annually. The SDF has previously joined merely as an observer.

"We welcome today’s approval of the Reciprocal Access Agreement between the Philippines and Japan by the House of Councillors, which completes the approval process in the Japanese Diet," Philippine ambassador to Tokyo Mylene Garcia-Albano said in a statement.

Albano described the accord as "a testament to the trust and enduring friendship between the Philippines and Japan."

"It will enhance our ability to

For his part, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, said any changes made to the system of education must still live up to the goals set under the K to 12 vision, which is concise but effective learning.

“While policy decisions rest with the DepEd and CHED, college cur-

las confirmed the possibility of an oil price hike with forecasts ranging from P0.70 to P0.90 per liter for diesel and P0.40 to P0.60 per liter for gasoline.

“The considerable rebound on oil prices this week is primarily driven by supply worries due to geopolitical concerns. Firmer demand for gasoline and diesel, with the start of the summer driving season in northern hemisphere countries, and lower regional supply, due to ongoing refinery maintenance and persistently low outflows from China, have further supported prices,” Bellas said.

"This means it must happen immediately. Right away. Nothing could be clearer,” Hontiveros added.

Senator-elect Panfilo Lacson said the best course of action is to allow the impeachment trial to carry over into the 20th Congress.

Lacson also dismissed the assertion of a draft resolution prepared by Senator Ronald dela Rosa, which claimed that the Senate could declare a de facto dismissal of the impeachment case against the Vice President.

"There is no merit in the draft resolution calling for the de facto dismissal of the impeachment case against Vice President Duterte. Only the Senate, as an impeachment court, has the jurisdiction to render a decision; the Senate, as a legislative body, does not possess the legal authority to do so,” Lacson said.

"If the senators are not acting as an impeachment court, they lack the authority to dismiss the impeachment case. The only entity that can properly address an impeachment case transmitted by the House is the impeachment court itself,” he added.

appears that they are abusing their discretion and using technicalities to defeat the ultimate purpose of protecting the people by ferreting out the truth about impeachable offenses committed by our highest public servants," Estrada said.

Tamase, who teaches constitutional law, thinks there is a delay that violates the constitutional directive to "forthwith proceed."

As an accountability mechanism for the highest officials means that impeachment is of a special priority, he explained that "there seems to be no reason for the Senate not to begin proceedings on June 2."

According to him, the impeachment trial of the late Chief Justice Renato Corona opened two days after the Articles of Impeachment were transmitted.

work closely together in promoting a rules-based order governed by international law," she said.

Similar to Manila's Visiting Forces Agreement with the United States, the RAA defense pact with the Philippines is the first to be signed by Japan in Asia. Japan has signed similar agreements with Australia and the United Kingdom.

"We thank the government and people of Japan for their steadfast support and continued collaboration," Albano said.

"We look forward to the full implementation of this agreement and to building an even more resilient and forward-looking partnership in the years ahead," she added.

Japan is one of the Philippines’ four strategic partners. The two countries have over 260 bilateral agreements, including the transfer of defense equipment and technology, infrastructure, and on Mindanao development.

Since 2023, the Philippines has been one of the first recipients of Japan’s Official Security Assistance (OSA) and the only country that Japan selected for grant aid in two consecutive years. With Kyodo News

ricula must avoid duplication so students can focus on their specialization and graduate in less than four years,” he said.

“They should not bear the burden of extra semesters simply because the original intent of the K-12 reform, made 12 years ago, has yet to be fully realized,” the lawmaker added.

On June 3, the oil firms increased the price of gasoline and diesel by P0.40 and P0.30 per liter, respectively but cut the price of kerosene by P0.10 per liter. Prevailing retail prices of petroleum products for the week of May 27 to June 2 in the National Capital Region showed that gasoline sells from P44 to P71.23 per liter, diesel from P44 to P66.27 per liter and kerosene from P67.49 to P82.54 per liter.

“Beyond the event lies a deeper truth that what brings us closest to the Almighty is the giving up of certainty and the letting go of pride,” the President said in a statement released by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).

For her part, Vice President Sara Duterte expressed hopes that “the spirit of Eid'l Adha would serve as a reminder to Filipinos of the essence of courage, generosity, and compassion for others.”

“The spirit of Eid al-Adha serves as a reminder of courage, generosity, and compassion—qualities that are very important at this time," the Vice President said.

In his message posted online, Senate President Francis Escudero expressed good wishes for the Muslims.

"I join our Muslim brothers and sisters in commemorating Eidul Adha, or the Feast of Sacrifice. May the strong faith and sacrifice shown by Ibrahim in obedience to Allah's will inspire us all to be good citizens," he said in Filipino.

On the other hand, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to “support policies that honor diversity and uphold religious freedoms.”

Romualdez said the celebration of Eid al-Adha presents an opportunity for reflection not only on faith and obedience but also on the duty of leaders to safeguard freedoms that allow every Filipino to practice their beliefs without fear or prejudice.

“Today, we join our Muslim brothers and sisters across the Philippines and the world in commemorating Eid al-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice – one of the most sacred celebrations in Islam,” the House leader said.

“Eid al-Adha reminds us of the power of obedience to a higher calling, the importance of selflessness and the strength found in unity. These are values that resonate not only within the Islamic tradition but also across all faiths and cultures. They are values that bind us together as a people, regardless of belief or background,” he added.

Romualdez emphasized that the lesson behind the holiday calls on all public officials to exercise servant leadership and pursue justice in their work.

“The story of Eid al-Adha speaks of sacrifice made out of trust and devotion. In today’s world, this message remains relevant. It calls on all of us in government and society to serve with sincerity, to uphold justice and to always act in the best interest of the people we represent,” he said.

PAGASA...

From A1 p.m. on June 6, the LPA was last estimated based on all available data 340 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes. The state weather bureau added in its 24-hour public weather forecast that it expects the LPA's trough to result in cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms in Quezon, Bicol, and parts of Visayas and Mindanao. These could lead to possible flash floods or landslides due to moderate to, at times, heavy rains.

Meanwhile, the Southwest Monsoon affecting the country's western section is forecast to bring cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms in Metro Manila, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, MIMAROPA, Western Visayas, Negros Island Region, Zamboanga Peninsula, BARMM, and SOCCSKSARGEN.

PAGASA has since advised stakeholders to monitor its updates.

89 unwanted foreigners deported

By Charles Dantes

THE government deported this week

a total of 89 unwanted aliens specifically involved in illegal gaming operations and cyber fraud, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) revealed.

The deportees consisted of 77 Vietnamese and 12 South Korean nationals.

The crackdown on illegal foreigners was carried in collaboration with the Philippine National Police, the National Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Immigration, the Department of Justice, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The mass deportation was part of a broader campaign ordered by President Marcos who earlier directed law enforcers to expedite the removal of all foreigners involved in cyber fraud and unauthorized online gaming operations in the country.

The PAOCC said around 140 individuals are set to be deported in early June, with more to follow suit soon.

“These deportations are part of a focused campaign to disrupt the criminal syndicates at the source,” according to PAOCC Undersecretary Gilberto Cruz who led a delegation to Vietnam to assist with the repatriation and held talks with Vietnamese law enforcement officials.

“We are sending a clear message: the Philippines will no longer be a sanctuary for foreign nationals exploiting the international digital and legal systems,” Cruz said.

SOUVENIR SHOPS. A row of souvenir shops along Gen. Luna St. at the Walled City or in Intramuros, Manila draws local and foreign visitors looking for mementos at bargain prices. Richmond Chi

Chinese ships at WPS unmasked

By Rex Espiritu

CHINA’S deployment of research and survey vessels in the disputed West Philippine Sea is at the core of its maritime gray zone strategy, allowing Beijing to assert control, gather intelligence, and expand its presence while avoiding direct confrontation, an international monitoring team reported.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy’s BRP Andres Bonifacio issue radio challenge to a Chinese warship spotted off the Panatag Islands.

Operating under the guise of scientific missions, SeaLight said these

dual-use vessels—often state-owned or affiliated with the military—conduct oceanographic surveys and resource mapping that serve both civilian and military purposes.

“These missions blur the line be -

tween legitimate scientific research and covert intelligence gathering or strategic signaling, allowing China to expand its maritime presence while maintaining plausible deniability.” The SeaLight report stated.

It asserted that Beijing tactics include “going dark” by disabling AIS tracking, symbolic pathing (such as drawing Chinese characters on navigation routes), and operating under escort by coast guard or maritime militia vessels to deter interference.

According to the group, these operations offer legal and diplomatic cover,

ANTIDENGUE DRIVE. The Esteban Abada Elementary School in Project 7, Quezon City undergoes rigid antidengue drive that includes fumigation of the classrooms and the entire campus and destruction of potential breeding places for mosquitoes such as discarded tires, drums, and pails. Manny Palmero

PNP, Napolcom eye 8-hour shifts for police officers

By Vince Lopez

THE National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) supports the implementation of eight-hour work shift for police officers as envisioned by newly appointed Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III.

According to NAPOLCOM commissioner Rafael Calinisan, they have actually planned to

Armymen, cops nab Red leader in CDO

implement the eight-hour shift for policemen.

Calinisan said the NAPOLCOM will also coordinate with Torre in drafting a resolution on the matter to set it in place as soon as possible.

Calinisan also backed Torre’s pronouncement that policemen “are only human and needed rest and proper sleep,” adding that the law enforcers should also have a worklife balance.

“Its implementation will also help in maintaining a healthy body of police officers who need sufficient rest,” he said.

Torre has said his goal was to prevent sleeping on the job among the ranks, hence their tour of duty should be reasonable and within the law.

He explained that working more than 40 hours a week is against the Labor Code.

A RANKING leader of the communist insurgency movement, long wanted for a string of crimes, was arrested by a combined team of the Army and the police on Thursday in Cagayan de Oro City.

The suspect, identified as Edward Flores, also known by multiple aliases including Cess, Ruby, Rafa, and Ramon, was apprehended through a coordinated operation of troopers from the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division of the Philippine Army, and elements of the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) in Regions 10, 11, and 12.

According to reports, Flores served as secretary of the Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR) of the communist insurgency movement that operates across an extensive area within the 6ID’s jurisdiction. Rex Espiritu

exploiting gray areas in international law and using their civilian appearance to minimize escalation risk. The goal is incremental advantage: repeated missions normalize Chinese presence in disputed areas like the South China Sea, East China Sea, and even the Indian Ocean—gradually reshaping perceptions of legitimacy and control. SeaLight was reputedly started by a team of volunteers at Stanford University’s Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation, which uses entrepreneurial methods to solve difficult defense and security challenges.

IN BRIEF

‘Only 8 of 66 senatorial bets filed their SOCEs’ THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Friday said only eight out of 66 senatorial candidates have filed their Statements of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCEs), just five days before the deadline. Comelec chairman George Garcia identified the eight senatorial bets are Victor Rodriguez, Norberto Gonzales, Dr. Willie Ong, France Castro of Makabayan bloc, Senator-elect Vicente Sotto III, Angelo de Alisan, and Ronaldo Jerome Adonis, also of the Makabayan coalition, and actor Philipp Salvador.

On the other hand, 11 party-lists have complied with the SOCE requirement, the poll body said, The compliant groups were Abono, Abante Pangasinan-Ilokano, 1-Pacman, Manila Teachers, Angat, ACT Teachers, Nanay, Buhay, Kabayan, Akay ni Sol and Bida Katagumpay. Meanwhile, three political parties who filed their SOCEs were Ang Katipunan para sa Pag-angat at Pagyabong ng Bayan, the Partido Demokratiko Sosyalista ng Pilipinas, and Bigkis Pinoy Movement. Vito Barcelo

Aragones aims to boost Laguna’s tourism sector

FAMY, Laguna—A historic oath-taking ceremony was held here by Laguna governor-elect Sol Aragones in Barangay Kapatalan led by barangay chairman Anselmo Coronoda.

During the event, Aragones introduced her provincial administrator, Gerry Pelayo, former Mayor of Candaba, Pampanga, and her chief of staff, Ronald Barsena.

“There is a reason why I came to this Barangay in Famy, Laguna. I wanted a simple oath-taking ceremony. I chose this place because I want to see and develop tourism in Laguna. My goal is to create a comprehensive Tourism Master Plan for our province,” Aragones said in her speech.

She emphasized that she wants to expand tourism in the province: "When there is tourism, there are jobs. We are also setting up Akay Sol Pharmacies throughout Laguna. I will personally visit the barangays to understand their needs.” Roy Tomandao

Probe looms on illegal transfer of vehicle titles

THE Land Transportation Office has ordered a probe on its 40 district offices over illegal transfer of ownership of motor vehicles seized during police operations.

LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II said he will direct all heads of district offices to explained that alleged transfer of ownership of seized vehicles which the Philippine National Police (PNP) described as technical carnapping.

Mendoza said the anomaly surface amid continuous coordination of the LTO with the PNP to enforce traffic rules and run after individuals and groups engaged in illegal activities using motor vehicles.

A meeting with the PNP showed several LTO district offices were involved in the unauthorized processing of cancellation of transfer of ownership and duplication of certificates of registration, he said. Rio N. Araja

Gov’t to roll out housing rental

By Rio N. Araja

THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development wants to pilot its housing rental inside the University of the Philippines, Diliman in Quezon City under the Marcos Jr. administration’s expanded Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) program.

Housing czar Jose Ramon Aliling, along with the other DHSUD officials, recently met with UP President Angelo Jimenez and other university officials to discuss the rental housing scheme for

House okays bill expanding seniors’ benefits

By Maricel V. Cruz

WITH 177 affirmative votes and no negative vote, the House of Representatives has approved on the third and final reading Wednesday House Bill (HB) 11400, or the proposed “Act Expanding the Coverage of the Privileges and Benefits Given to Senior Citizens.” HB 11400 serves as the substitute bill for 24 individual measures seeking either additional or expanded benefits for the elderly.

It further amends Republic Act (RA) 7432, as amended, entitled “An Act to Maximize the Contributions of Senior Citizens to Nation Building, Grant Benefits, and Special Privileges and for Other Purposes.”

“We Filipinos are known for having a respectful society, and this is rooted in the way we take care of our elders. As legislators, we always look for ways to make life easier and more comfortable for our countrymen who are in their golden years,” House Speaker Martin Romualdez said.

Among others, the bill amends Sec. 3 of the “Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010” by defining medicines, food supplements, private commercial establishments, and parking fees covered as benefits granted to senior citizens.

UP constituents.

“We will provide the necessary technical assistance to ensure the success of this collaboration. Once approved, DHSUD stands committed to fund the

land development portion for the pilot project,” Aliling said.

The proposed pilot project has the support of the Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-IBIG Fund.

The housing czar tasked his officials to work closely with the UP management for the smooth implementation of the proposed pilot rental housing project under 4PH.

Aliling earlier said the DHSUD is open to all feasible modalities to make 4PH more inclusive and sustainable, including rental housing.

“We must exhaust all feasible

modalities under 4PH. The more schemes available for our kababayans (fellow Filipinos), depending on the need and their capacity, the better,” Aliling said. The DHSUD is looking at families within the lower income deciles as among the targeted beneficiaries.

Aliling said the 4PH program will be recalibrated to include horizontal developments or subdivision-like housing projects.

Before this, 4PH was focused only on vertical or condominium-type developments.

OFF FOR A MARITIME EXERCISE.

Members of the Philippine Coast Guard conduct a send-off ceremony for BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) on Friday, June 2, 2025, at Pier 13 in Manila. BRP Teresa Magbanua will join the United States Coast Guard and the Japan Coast Guard for a trilateral maritime exercise in Kagoshima, Japan. Danny Pata

Comelec proclaims Bagong Henerasyon party-list

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec), sitting as the National Board of Canvassers, on Friday proclaimed Bagong Henerasyon as one of the winning party-list groups in the May 12 midterm polls.

The Comelec said the group garnered 319,803 votes in the elections, which entitles it to one seat at the House of

Representatives. According to the Certificate of Proclamation (COP), First Nominee Roberto Gerard Nazal Jr. will represent Bagong Henerasyon in the 20th Congress for three years, or until June 30, 2028.

Comelec chairperson George Garcia said the COP was formally presented to Bagong Henerasyon president Ro

chelle Custodio and secretary general Bernadette Banto on Friday at the session hall of the Comelec head office in Intramuros, Manila. Bagong Henerasyon was proclaimed a day after the Comelec en banc issued a Certificate of Finality and Entry of Judgment on the disqualification case against the group and its nominees.

IN BRIEF

DSWD ready for new storm; prepositions 3m food packs nationwide

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development has prepositioned 3 million boxes of family food packs (FFPs) in 938 warehouses across the country as it braces for incoming storms with the onset of the rainy season.

Secretary Rex Gatchalian earlier directed the DSWD’s Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) to ensure that FFPs in regions that are prone to storms and flooding are constantly replenished for adequate, prompt and efficient disaster response operations.

“The President’s order to ensure the safety and security of Filipinos who are often affected by typhoons and other calamities. The DSWD is implementing the ‘Buong Bansa Handa’ program so we have a 3 million stockpile of FFPs for quick and efficient disaster response operations,” Gatchalian said. Maricel V. Cruz

Villafuerte to Senate:

Please pass medical cannabis bill ASAP

OUTGOING Camarines Sur

Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte on Friday appealed to the senators to pass the House of Representatives-approved bill legalizing the use of medical cannabis.

Medical cannabis, Villafuerte said, will alleviate the suffering of Filipinos afflicted with cancer and other severe ailments. He said medical cannabis comes from the non-addictive strain of the cannabis sativa or marijuana plant and is a relatively more affordable alternative treatment for their excruciating pain.

Maricel V. Cruz

Sweden appoints new non-resident defense attaché to PH SWEDEN has appointed Lt. Col. Anders Nikanorsson as its new non-resident defense attaché to the Philippines, marking a significant step forward in bilateral defense engagement. Currently based in Bangkok, Nikanorsson will serve as a key liaison in advancing Sweden’s strategic engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. “I am deeply honored and genuinely excited to take on this assignment. The Philippines holds a pivotal position in the IndoPacific, both geographically and strategically. As a maritime nation committed to international law and regional stability, it is a natural partner for Sweden in promoting a rules-based global order and enhancing security cooperation,” he said.

TWO ranking police officials have been included in the latest reorganization of the Philippine National Police, including its new intel chief. In an order dated June 2 and made public Friday, PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III designated Brig. Gen. Wilson Lopez as head of the Directorate for Intelligence (DI). Lopez, a member of the PNP Academy “Tagapaglunsad” Class of 1993, rose to the top intel post after serving as its deputy director.

Lopez earlier served as the country’s police attaché in Washington. He was a former director of the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office and chief of staff of the Southern Police District. He replaced Maj. Gen. Westrimundo Obinque, who was designated as director of the National Police Training Institute. Obinque will replace his mistah from Philippine Military Academy “Tanglaw-Diwa” Class of 1992, Maj. Gen. Ronald Lee, who retired from the police force at the age of 56 on May 5.

TALENT. A weaver displays her skills at the opening of ‘LIKHA

Likha Ko, Lahi Ko’ expo at Foro de Intramuros in Manila on Thursday, June 5, 2025. First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos led the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the three-day event that showcases Filipino creativity, craftsmanship and culture through the works of new and seasoned artisans and designers. Joan Bondoc

Lt. Col. Anders Nikanorsson

OPINION

Censorship, opacity, and misplaced zeal

BACK at work after the May 12 midterm elections, our outgoing batch of senators passed several pieces of legislation this week. At first glance, it would appear that members of the Upper Chamber were all eager to get back to work, driven by the zeal to get as much done during the remaining days of the 19th Congress, which is scheduled to end next week.

“Zeal” is an interesting word.

“Zeal” could very well explain, for instance, why the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board Act, strengthening the agency’s reach to include online streaming platforms, was passed on third and final reading.

Section 2 of the law, the declaration of policy, says the State, as parens patriae, “recognizes the need to strengthen the mandate of its regulatory authority for the protection of the general public, particularly minors, from exposure to harmful and inappropriate content, in view of the evolving media landscape and proliferation of digital content. Towards this end, it is hereby declared the policy of the State to ensure public safety and moral integrity, and to promote general welfare by effectively regulating and classifying movies, television programs, publicity materials, and publicly accessible content from ondemand streaming services.”

Several groups have come out against the passage of SB 2805. The Directors’ Guild of the Philippines, for instance, says it stands for the broader interest of those who prefer to do parental duties by themselves, and rely on the MTRCB only for guidance through a genuine classification system (without censorship power) to facilitate these duties, possible only in a climate of free expression and free access to expression.

“While the bill attempts to frame the MTRCB as protector of children, its provisions unmask its real mission: the unbridled control of Filipino hearts and minds through censorship of material not only for minors but more harmfully for adults, whose freedoms are protected by our Constitution (Article III, Section 4) and by the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 19),” the DGPI said in a statement.

The UP Film Institute says: “[RA 2805] does not acknowledge that streaming is not television and falls outside the agency’s jurisdiction. It is a dynamic space where viewers actively engage with diverse content. The cunning and undemocratic way the bill allows MTRCB to encroach on virtual space foretells how other spaces whose freedoms are guaranteed by our rights can be infringed and violated so easily.”

Filmmaker and Surian ng Sining Chair

JL Burgos, whose own film was given an

X rating for supposedly “undermining the faith and confidence of the people in their government,”

The law, thus, could outright ban any content that challenges the status quo, critiques government policy, or depicts social issues deemed “immoral” by conservative standards.

Then again, even before online streaming platforms emerged, the issue of censorship has long been controversial. Often, those who champion censorship believe themselves to be the guardians of the people, fully fit to decide what may or may not be consumed by the public – watched, read, listened to -- on the grounds of moral integrity.

What were our senators thinking?

The implication is that there is a special group of all-knowing people who do know what is good and bad. The peril is that this supposedly enlightened lot could be overstepping their bounds and creeping into the sanctity of our personal spaces, and encroaching into the roles that are not their own.

What is bad for the youth – for anyone, really -- is the exercise of limits on what they could read, see, or hear. It assumes they cannot think for themselves and would just absorb everything like a sponge. It presupposes they have nobody to help them process what they see and guide them to think critically.

And far too often, because something is prohibited, people find ways to get at them, eventually, curious on what the fuss was all about. If there should be any law on the MTRCB at all, it should be on its abolition.

***

Meanwhile, a different kind of zeal is apparent in the Senate – to prevent the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, despite the fact that the House of Representatives had transmitted the articles of impeachment, and that nine out of 10 Filipinos in a survey said they wanted the trial to push through.

We are advocating neither a conviction or acquittal. That is the job of the senators acting like impeachment judges. What the people want is for the actual trial to push through so that accusations may be made and responded to, and evidence for both sides may be presented. We’ve gone for so long under the cloak of “confidentiality” – it is time to have everything out in the open.

Everything, including what our senators are truly made of.

Strengthening ties with Poul Due Jensen Fond

By Melandrew T. Velasco

IT’S been almost a month since the Million Trees Foundation, Inc. visited the headquarters of the Poul Due Jensen Fond (Grundfos Foundation) in Bjerringbro, Denmark where we met up with foundation Director Jesper Richter Rasmussen and two officials of Tree Growing Network. It was enlightening and educational being briefed by Director Jesper and Grundfos Foundation Secretariat Portfolio Manager Martin Skovrup Bertelsen about the humble beginnings of Grundfos and its founder Poul Due Jensen who started his business in 1945 at his birth town of Bjerringbro to its present status as a global brand with 21,000 employees worldwide.

As the world’s leading pump company, Grundfos’ founder, Poul Due Jensen, created the foundation on May 19, 1975. Poul Due Jensen wanted to make sure his company would continue to serve the best interest of society for many generations. Jesper said the main purpose of the

Grundfos Foundation is to ensure and support healthy economic growth and development, but it also donates funds to important and noble philanthropic projects, activities and investments.

We are hopeful the strong partnership between the two foundations continues to endure and prosper through the years

While in Denmark, we had the chance to personally meet the prime movers of Growing Trees Network Foundation: Formand Lars Heiselberg Vang Jensen and CEO Kim Nielsen. Growing Trees Foundation, based in Denmark, supports efforts to combat global warming through tree planting and it is a local partner of Poul Due Jensen Foundation. It is aligned with the

High-level summit on the ocean

FOR five days next week starting Monday, global ears will be tuned in to the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), a high-level summit on the ocean, in Nice, France.

This summit, anticipated to bring together the entire international community – representatives from 193 member governments, international organizations – is seen as a crucial meeting to tackle the urgent issues facing coral reefs and oceans.

The top-level meeting will be cochaired by France and Costa Rica, aiming to confront the deepening ocean emergency.

The conference’s all-embracing theme -- “Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean” -- aims to strengthen collective action to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) – Life Below Water.

SDG 14 aims to protect and ensure the sustainable use of oceans, which includes reducing marine pollution and ocean acidification, end overfishing and conserve marine and coastal eco-

goals of MTFI since tree planting initiatives contribute to various environmental causes like protecting drinking water, creating recreational spaces, and increasing biodiversity.

According to Nielsen, the government in Denmark encourages Danish land owners to allow the planting of trees in their idle lands to be converted into forested areas, a policy that might as well be adopted in the Philippines. We look forward to forging ties with the Growing Trees Network Foundation which became an environmental sensation when it successfully launched its Kiddie Burger for Trees Project.

Among the highlights of our official visit in Denmark was the planting of 30 saplings of European Beech (Fagus sylvatica), a widely recognized tree species in Denmark, known for its large size and long lifespan in a sprawling private property in Viborg, a neighboring town of Bjerringbro.

In its 2024 annual report titled “A

systems. It is well-timed to acknowledge that the Philippines, which has several cities below sea level, contributes to UNOC3 by showcasing its commitment to ocean-centered, people-powered, and

Nine million living on land in the Philippines are expected to be under sea level by 2100

science-based climate leadership as well as by engaging in initiatives to promote ocean conservation and sustainable use. We note that several cities are ex-

Global Force for Good,” Poul Due Foundation awarded 57 Community Engagement Grants worth DKK 225 million to local causes across the globe, including: fighting plastic pollution in Vietnam; supporting the planting of million trees in the Philippines; and, Urban Journey for Distant Mountainous Areas Students in China which was a recipient of the 2024 Grundfos Community Engagement Award.

Over the last two years, Poul Due Jensen Foundation and Grundfos served as MTFI’s institutional partner with an annual grant of €23,700 (P1.4 million) in support of MTFI’s sustainable projects at the Million Trees Nursery and Eco Learning Center. We are hopeful the strong partnership between the two foundations continues to endure and prosper through the years.

Here in the Philippines, Grundfos has a project called the 9150 CARES GOES GREEN PROJECT with the MTFi and involves the following: a) the procure-

periencing land subsidence and are at risk of being inundated due to rising sea levels and storm surges, like the capital region, the country’s capital city Manila, Navotas City, Malabon City as well as parts of Pasay City and Cavite province are extremely vulnerable.

On land subsidence, many urban areas, including Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, Metro Davao, and Metro Iloilo, are experiencing land collapse, meaning they are sinking, caused primarily by the removal of underground fluids or materials due largely to human activities like groundwater extraction or resource mining.

At the same time, the Philippines is facing the threat of rising sea levels and storm surges, which can further exacerbate the problem of flooding in coastal areas of this archipelagic nation – with a coastline of 36,289 kilometers – of 117 million people.

Being an archipelagic country, the Philippines, tagged red in the global estimate, is experiencing sea level rise three to four times faster than the world average rate, with the ballpark figure of nine million living on land expected to be under sea level by 2100.

ment and planting of thousands of seedlings/saplings involving fruit bearing and indigenous trees in the next three years; b) monitoring the actual process of reforestation or rehabilitation needed for one year and replacement of dead saplings if the need arises; c) re-bagging of seedlings; and, d) maintenance, operational and information campaign support for the MTFI and the project. We are inspired to work with Grundfos Philippines led by Country Director Josephine de La Cerna and Bobby Fraga. We are grateful and blessed for the wonderful opportunity of networking and firming up ties with Poul Due Jensen Foundation and Grundfos. (The author, a publisher, is president/ chief executive officer of Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. and president/ executive director of the Million Trees Foundation Inc., a non-government outfit advocating tree-planting and environmental protection.)

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in horizontal format of a Filipino couple watching a laptop. Two massive ticker tapes obscure the screen. The first layer says ‘VAT ON DIGITAL SERVICES.’ Overlapping, it is labeled ‘MTRCB OVERSIGHT.’ The couple looks defeated and disgusted.

Trump, Musk alliance melts down in blazing public row

WASHINGTON, DC—Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s unlikely political marriage exploded in a fiery public divorce Thursday (Friday Manila time), with the US president threatening to strip the billionaire of his huge government contracts in revenge.

Trump said in a televised Oval Office diatribe that he was “very disappointed” after his former aide and top donor criticized his “big, beautiful” spending bill before Congress.

The pair then hurled insults at each other on social media -- with Musk even posting, without proof, that Trump was referenced in government documents on disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The row could have major political and economic fallout, as shares in Musk’s Tesla car company plunged and the South African-born tech ty-

coon vowed that he would end a critical US spaceship program. Speculation had long swirled that a relationship between the world’s richest person and its most powerful could not last long—but the speed of the meltdown took Washington by surprise.

“I’m very disappointed in Elon. I’ve helped Elon a lot,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office as visiting German Chancellor Friedrich Merz looked on silently.

“Elon and I had a great relationship. I don’t know if we will anymore.”

A hurt-sounding Trump, 78, noted in a 10-minute diatribe that it had been only a week since he hosted a grand farewell for Musk as he left the cost-cutting Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). AFP

US slaps ban on 4 ICC judges over Israel

WASHINGTON, DC—The United States on Thursday (Friday Manila time) imposed sanctions on four judges at the International Criminal Court including over an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as it ramped up pressure to neuter the court of last resort.

The four judges in The Hague, all women, will be barred entry to the United States and any property or other interests in the world’s largest economy will be blocked -- measures more often taken against policymakers from US adversaries than against judicial officials.

Muslim pilgrims ‘stone the devil’ as hajj concludes

MINA, Saudi Arabia—Pilgrims were set to perform the last major ritual of the hajj—the “stoning of the devil” —on Friday, as Muslims around the globe celebrated the beginning of the Eid al-Adha holiday.

Starting at dawn, the more than 1.6 million Muslims taking part in the pilgrimage will throw seven stones at each of three concrete walls symbolizing the devil in the Mina valley, on the outskirts of the holy city of Mecca.

The ritual commemorates Abraham’s stoning of the devil at the three spots where it is said Satan tried to dissuade him from obeying God’s order to sacrifice his son.

This year’s hajj saw authorities implementing a range of heat mitigation efforts alongside a wide-ranging crackdown on illicit pilgrims—resulting in noticeably thinner crowds and a heavy security presence at holy sites in Mecca and surrounding areas.

The measures were aimed at preventing a fatal repeat of last year’s hajj that saw 1,301 people die in temperatures that hit 51.8 degrees Celsius (125 degrees Fahrenheit).

Saudi authorities said a majority of those deaths were among pilgrims who illegally snuck into Mecca and lacked access to accommodation and other services aimed to keep pilgrims safe and protected from the searing desert heat.

Hajj permits are allocated to countries on a quota basis and distributed to individuals by a lottery system. AFP

“The United States will take whatever actions we deem necessary to protect our sovereignty, that of Israel, and any other US ally from illegitimate actions by the ICC,”

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement. “I call on the countries that still

support the ICC, many of whose freedom was purchased at the price of great American sacrifices, to fight this disgraceful attack on our nation and Israel,” Rubio said.

The court swiftly hit back, saying in a statement: “These measures are a clear attempt to undermine the independence of an international judicial institution which operates under the mandate from 125 States Parties from all corners of the globe.”

Israel’s Netanyahu welcomed the move, thanking US President Donald Trump’s administration in a social media post.

“Thank you President Trump and

Secretary of State Rubio for imposing sanctions against the politiciced judges of the ICC. You have justly stood up for the right of Israel,” he wrote on Friday.

Human Rights Watch urged other nations to speak out and reaffirm the independence of the ICC, set up in 2002 to prosecute individuals responsible for the world’s gravest crimes when countries are unwilling or unable to do so themselves.

The sanctions “aim to deter the ICC from seeking accountability amid grave crimes committed in Israel and Palestine and as Israeli atrocities mount in Gaza, including with US

complicity,” said the rights group’s international justice director, Liz Evenson.

Two of the targeted judges, Beti Hohler of Slovenia and Reine Alapini-Gansou of Benin, took part in proceedings that led to an arrest warrant issued last November for Netanyahu. The court found “reasonable grounds” of criminal responsibility by Netanyahu and former Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant for actions that include the war crime of starvation as a method of war in the massive offensive in Gaza following Hamas’s unprecedented October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. AFP

‘No doubt’ Canadian firm will be first to extract deep sea minerals—CEO

NEW YORK—The head of submarine mining pioneer The Metals Company told AFP he had “no doubt” the Canadian firm would be the first to to extract coveted minerals from the deep seas, with help from Donald Trump. Metal-containing deep-sea nodules, which have the appearance of potatosize pebbles and typically contain nickel and cobalt, are highly sought for use in electric vehicle batteries and electric cables, and the race is on to be the first to extract them from the untapped deep sea.

TMC’s chief executive Gerard Barron told AFP in an interview in New York that his company was sure to win the race.

The company turned its back on the International Seabed Authority (ISA), which has jurisdiction over the international seabed, complaining over its slow pace in adopting a mining code

that establishes the rules for exploiting seabed minerals. Instead, TMC surprised everyone when its US subsidiary submitted a request to Washington, which is not an ISA member, to grant it the first commercial mining permit in international waters.

TMC has asked to harvest so-called polymetallic nodules—deposits made up of multiple metals—in 25,200 square kilometers of the Pacific’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone.

Here is what Barron said about what might lie ahead.

Q: When is your target to start mining?

A: “With the help of the executive order from President Trump,... we’re expecting an expedited permitting process. And that hopefully will mean that within this next year, maybe even by the end of the year, we’ll see the permission from the US government to move forward.” AFP

Japanese company aborts Moon mission after losing contact with lander

TOKYO—Japan’s hopes of achieving its first soft landing on the Moon by a private company were dashed Friday when the mission was aborted over lost contact with the Resilience spacecraft during a daunting final descent.

Tokyo-based ispace had hoped to make history as only the third private firm—and the first outside the United States—to achieve a controlled touchdown on the lunar surface with its robotic lander. But it decided to end the mission as

“recovery of communication with the lander is unlikely,” chief executive officer Takeshi Hakamada told reporters.

Resilience began falling during the landing attempt, and mission control fired the engines to slow it down, he said.

“We confirmed that the lander’s position moved to almost vertical”, but “after the planned landing time we were not able to receive data that confirms its landing”.

The failure comes two years after a prior mission ended in a crash.

Touchdown had been scheduled for 4:17 am Japan time on Friday

IN BRIEF

(1917 GMT Thursday) on the Mare Frigoris region of the Moon’s northern hemisphere. But the mood in mission control turned sombre, and around 15 minutes after the scheduled time, announcers on a livestream said attempts to communicate with the lander would continue. They signed off with the message: “Never quit the lunar quest.” On board the lander were several high-profile payloads: Tenacious, a Luxembourg-built micro rover; a water electrolyzer to split molecules

the country illegally after overstaying a tourist visa, faces 28 attempted murder charges, as well as a bevvy of other counts relating to his alleged use of violence. He also faces a count of animal cruelty for a dog that was hurt, bringing to 118 the total number of criminal counts.

Boulder County

years in state prison for each of the 14 victims, which comes to 672 years.”

Two of the Soliman’s alleged victims—along with the dog—were at the court on Thursday. AFP

into hydrogen and oxygen; a food production experiment; and a deepspace radiation probe.

The rover also carried “Moonhouse,” a model home designed by Swedish artist Mikael Genberg. The mission had also aimed to collect two lunar soil samples and sell them to NASA for $5,000.

Though the samples would remain on the Moon, the symbolic transaction is meant to strengthen the US stance that commercial activity—though not sovereign claims—should be allowed on celestial bodies. AFP

Court blocks Trump’s new ban on foreign students

NEW YORK—A court on Thursday

“This is not the Administration’s first attempt to sever Harvard from its international students.”

“(It) is part of a concerted and escalating campaign of retaliation by the government in clear retribution for Harvard’s exercising its First Amendment rights to reject the government’s demands to control Harvard’s governance, curriculum, and the ‘ideology’ of its faculty and students.” US District Judge Allison Burroughs on Thursday ruled the government cannot enforce Trump’s proclamation. Harvard had showed, she said, that without a temporary restraining order, it risked sustaining “immediate and irreparable injury before there is an opportunity to hear from all parties.”

The

RETURN TO HARD LINE. Rescuers inspect the damage in the aftermath of an Israeli airstrike that targeted the Hadath neighborhood in the southern suburbs of Beirut on Friday. A series of Israeli air strikes hit Beirut’s southern suburbs on the night of June 5, after the military said it would target underground Hezbollah drone factories. This, as the United States imposed sanctions on four judges at the International Criminal Court over an arrest warrant for Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Neither the United States nor Israel is party to the Rome Statute that established the International Criminal Court. AFP

STONING RITUAL. Muslim worshippers offer Eid al-Adha

PBBM okays funding aid for FIVB world tilt

Basilan, Bataan nail contrasting MPBL triumphs

BASILAN and Bataan notched contrasting wins on Thursday in Manny Pacquiao presents 1xBet-MPBL 2025 Season at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay.

The Basilan Starhorse thwarted the Mindoro Tamaraws’ last-ditch assault and prevailed, 84-77, while the Bataan Risers rallied to shock the Pasay Voyagers, 86-84, in the round-robin elimination phase of the 30-team tournament.

Ahead, 75-64, with 6 minutes and 10 seconds left, Basilan needed to fend off Mindoro’s 10-2 run to tally its third straight victory and climb to 6-7 in the chase for playoff spots.

Jonas Tibayan made the first of two free throws to move Mindoro closer, 7579, but Basilan’s Reymar Caduyat came through with two charities and a triple for the final count.

Adi Santos posted 20 points and 5 rebounds, but it was veteran Alex Cabagnot who clinched best player honors with a near triple-double 16 points, laced by four triples, 10 assists and 9 rebounds for Basilan.

Emman Calo provided support with 9 points, 5 rebounds and 4 steals as Basilan’s 10-man rotation pulled down Mindoro to 7-8.

The Tamaraws got 14 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists from Jun Manzo, 13 points, 3 assists, 2 steals and 2 rebounds from Wendelino Comboy, 11 points and 4 rebounds from Tibayan, and 10 points plus 5 rebounds from Fil-Am Ashon Andrews.

Bataan trailed Pasay, 74-81, following a triple by Dan Sara, but countered behind Lorenz Capulong, Chris Javier, Yves Sazon and Dom Vera to seize control at 86-83 with 12 seconds left.

Pasay’s Jasper Salenga canned his first charity, but missed the second, although the Voyagers retained ball possession with 4 seconds to go.

OKLAHOMA — Oklahoma City star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said the Thunder must stick to the principles that made them the best team in the NBA regular season as they seek to bounce back from a devastating loss to Indiana in game one of the NBA Finals.

The Thunder, who led the league with 68 regular-season victories, had never trailed and led by 15 early in the fourth quarter of the championship series opener.

But the tenacious Pacers rallied and seized the 111-110 victory on Tyrese Haliburton’s pull-up basket with threetenths of a second remaining.

“As much as we can, we just got to treat it like every other game, every other situation we’ve been in,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “Yes, we haven’t

been in this situation (in the Finals), but that doesn’t mean our character has to change, or what we did last time.

“It’s still basketball, the game of basketball we grew up playing. The rules don’t change because we’re in the Finals.

After Indiana pulled within one with with 48.6 seconds remaining, GilgeousAlexander -- the 26-year-old Canadian who supplanted Denver star Nikola Jokic as the NBA Most Valuable Player this season -- had a chance to put the Thunder ahead by three but his fadeaway shot attempt didn’t fall, leaving the door open for Haliburton’s heroics.

“I thought I got a pretty good look, felt good, didn’t go in,” he said. “Then they got a look, and it went in. Can’t do anything about it now. Just got to be bet-

ter for next game.”

Thursday’s outcome recalled the opening game of the Western Conference semi-finals, when Denver’s Aaron Gordon drained a last-gasp three-pointer to lift the Nuggets to a 121-119 victory over the Thunder.

Oklahoma City went on to beat the Nuggets in seven games, and GilgeousAlexander said it would be no harder to bounce back after another narrow defeat.

“Me personally, how you lose doesn’t really matter,” he said. “Obviously it sucks, last-second shot, the energy in the arena and stuff like that. But we lost at the end of the day. We lost game one. We’ve lost game one before.

“The series isn’t first to one, it’s first to four.” AFP

NBA must explore expansion, says Silver

OKLAHOMA — NBA commissioner Adam Silver said he believes the league should explore the question of expansion when the subject comes up for discussion at a board of governors meeting next month.

Silver, speaking in his annual news conference ahead of the NBA Finals, said he expected the possibility of creating new franchises should be examined given the number of “underserved” markets in North America.

“I’d say the current sense is we should be exploring it,” Silver said on the question of expansion.

“I don’t think it’s automatic because it depends on your perspective on the future of the league.

“As I’ve said before, expansion in a way is selling equity in the league. If you believe in the league, you don’t necessarily want to add partners.

“On the other hand, we recognize there are underserved markets in the United States and elsewhere, I

Adam Silver think markets that deserve to have NBA teams.”

The NBA chief said next month’s owners meeting in Las Vegas would gauge interest in expansion.

“It will be on the agenda to take the temperature of the room,” Silver said.

“We have committees that are already talking about it. But my sense is at that meeting, they’re going to give direction to me and my colleagues at the league office that we should continue to explore it.” Silver added that the NBA’s efforts to create a league in Europe were part of the expansion drive.

“We think there’s an opportunity to serve fans in Europe,” Silver said.

“There’s really high-level basketball being played there. But we think there is an opportunity to better serve fans there. I view that as a form of expansion as well, and that’s something we’re also thinking hard about.” Silver meanwhile confirmed that the NBA was working on a revamped AllStar Game which would bring an “international flavor” to the mid-season event that has battled years of steadily declining ratings, plunging from some 13.1 million viewers in 2002 to 4.72 million in 2025. AFP

THE Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for approving the request for funding for the country’s hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship Philippines 2025 this September.

“Our heartfelt gratitude to the President [Marcos] for his very significant support for the world championship,” said Ramon “Tats” Suzara, head of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), the lead body in the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the world championships that the country is solo hosting for the first time from September 12 to 28.

“And the LOC’s gratitude equally goes deeply for the First Lady [Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta Marcos] who, from the start, has shown her love for volleyball, just like millions and millions of Filipinos,” added Suzara, also the president of the Asian Volleyball Confederation.

Malacañang made the official approval in a memo addressed to Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.

“The Philippine sports community is deeply grateful for the commitment of His Excellency President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. in promoting a historic and excellent hosting of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championships on September,” Bachmann said. Presidential son William Vincent “Vinny” Araneta Marcos co-chairs the LOC with Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco with Bachman leading the LOC board also composed of Senator Pia Cayetano, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and sports patron Manuel. V. Pangilinan.

ALAS PILIPINAS eyes a strong start in the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC)

EROS Baluyot forced Rene Catalan Jr. into submission recently in one of interesting matches of the Universal Reality Combat Championship Kaogma Collision 2 at Fuerte Sports Complex in Capitol Grounds in Cadlan Pili, Camarines Sur. Baluyot, ranked No. 447 among MMA fighters in the Asia Pacific Region, pulled off the victory via armbar submission in second round against Catalan before an appreciative crowd in the URCC flyweight championship, the main event of the historic MMA confrontations in the province.

Baluyot had also beaten Catalan’s father Rene Sr. via rear-naked choke in the URCC last August 2023. In another mainer, Jun Hyung Lee won via technical knockout against Jayson Magallo in the featherweight interim championship.

Team World prevailed over Team Pinas, while Team Manila beat Team CamSur in a pair of 3v3. The fight card, supported by Gov.

Lray Villafuerte, Cam Sur 2nd district representative Luigi Villafuerte and 5th district representative Migz Villafuerte, was part of a summertime province-wide festivity marking the creation of Camarines Sur as a province. URCC president and founder Alvin Aguilar also expressed his gratitude to the Villafuertes and the CamSur people for allowing the country’s top MMA fighters to display their fighting skills. Also hogging the limelight were fastrising Menard Atole, Alex Asio Jr, Robin Leonen, Jhon Brutas, Rufino Mante, and Ian Lora. The 5’7” Atole, who has the moniker ‘Fresh Kid,’ spent more than two rounds sizing up his opponent, Juro Amandoron in the opening bout. Amandoron tried to hit Atole with

Eros Baluyot throws a punch against Rene Catalan Jr.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder is fouled by Tyrese Haliburton of the Indiana

Finals at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. AFP

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

SATURDAY, JUNE 7, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Eumir’s dream of fighting in Pacman’s card now a reality

EUMIR Felix Marcial — one of the country’s top boxing talents — will return to the ring alongside living legend Manny Pacquiao on July 19 as one of the undercards at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada.

International matchmaker and Manny Pacquiao’s MP Promotions’ president Sean Gibbons announced that the Tokyo Olympics’ bronze medalist will fight in an eight-round middleweight non-title bout against American Alexis Gaytan.

“I started boxing because I was so inspired by Manny Pacquiao when I was a kid,” Marcial said. “It was my dream to always fight alongside, and eventually be on a card with Manny Pacquiao.”

Marcial arrived in Los Angeles, California with other former world champions Jerwin Ancajas, Mark Magsayo and Jonas Sultan on Tuesday to join Pacquiao in training camp for his main event bout against World Boxing Council welterweight champion Mario Barrios of Mexico.

“My dream has come true. I represented the Philippines in the Olympics with pride, won the bronze, but my other dream was to fight alongside the Hall of Famer and eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao. And on July 19, my dream will become a reality,” Marcial added.

Marcial sports an unbeaten 5-0 winloss slate. His last bout was in Manila in March 2023, when he knocked out Thailand’s Thoedsak Sinam in the fourth round in front of a Filipino crowd at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Pacquiao, 46, who now trains alongside Marcial at the Wild Card gym in Los Angeles, said he would do everything it takes to help all Filipino boxers reach their full potential and turn their dreams of becoming world champions a reality.

“When I started my promotional company Manny Pacquiao Promotions, I tried to help my fellow Filipino boxers. So, I am very happy to help Eumir Marcial fight under my banner MP promotions,” Pacquiao said.

Marcial’s fight against the 30-year-old Gaytan, who holds a 17-10 record with six knockouts, is a challenging one for the Zamboanga City warrior as he has been idle for 16 months following his one-year preparation and competition during last year’s Paris Olympics.

Diaz not done yet, to focus on LA Olympic qualification

By Peter Atencio

TOKYO Olympics’ gold medallist Hidilyn Diaz got busy organizing the inaugural staging of the weightlifting competitions of the 2025 Palarong Pambansa in Laoag Ilocos, Norte last week.

The new role has taken much of her time, as 80 athletes and nine regions showed interest in her Olympic sport, with lots of new faces grabbing podium finishes.

Now that she’s done with the Palaro, Diaz is getting ready for her other weightlifting challenges--the qualifying meets for 2028 Los Angeles Olympics next year.

“The Olympic qualifiers? This will be my priority next year,” said Diaz on Thursday evening after she was named one of the nine key figures unveiled

ANTIPOLO – Guido van der Valk survived a harrowing back-nine meltdown in sweltering conditions and fended off a furious rally by three determined rivals to escape with a nail-biting one-stroke victory on a scrambling 70 in the ICTSI Forest Hills Classic here on Friday. What started as a cruise to the title turned into a gutwrenching grind for the 45-year-old Dutchman, who saw a four-shot lead evaporate in a span of six holes before steadying himself with a clutch par on the 72nd hole to seal the hard-earned win. “No. 18 isn’t the easiest hole – there’s a lot of trouble out there. But I hit a good drive and followed it up with a really nice second shot. That helped me settle down a bit and close it out,” said van der Valk, who last tasted victory several seasons

on Thursday as the new ambassadors of “Jollibee Bida Best”, extraordinary individuals from sports, gaming, beauty, science, and the arts, who embody what it means to be proudly Filipino on the global stage.

Among the athletes included in the Jollibee roster were Paris Olympics’ double gold medallist Carlos Yulo, pole vaulter EJ Obiena and the Sibol men’s and women’s national team.

Yulo and Obiena are competing in international meets and were not around during festivities held at Whitespace

Manila in Makati City. “Hindi pa ako masyadong prepared sa mga competitions ko. I’m still 80 percent,” added Diaz. Next week, Diaz said she will be in the National Open in Dumaguete, where she will once again fight for honors with fellow Olympian Elreen Ando in the 59-kg. category. Coming next after her Dumaguete sortie will be the 2025 World Weightlifting Championships, to be held in Førde, Norway, from October 2 to 11.

The Southeast Asian Games in Thailand is also in the pipeline for Diaz. Also honored as “Bida Best” ambassadors were astrophysicist Reina Reyes, 2025 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach, toy designer Quiccs Maiquez, and the UPeepz, who are the World Hip Hop champions. Members of team NaVi Philippines were present to represent the Sibol’s women’s team, while members of RRQ

volley title

NATIONAL University Nazareth School and Bacolod Tay Tung set up a dream winner-take-all championship match after sweeping their respective rivals in the 2025 Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League (SGVIL) Rising Stars Cup Division 1 semifinal Friday at the La Salle Green Hills Gym.

The Lady Bullpups earned a breakthrough gold medal match appearance after an emphatic sweep of Emilio Aguinaldo College, 25-16, 25-15, 25-11, while the Thunderbolts secured another crack at the title with a 25-20, 25-15, 2518, dismantling of De La Salle-Lipa.

The protagonists of the recently concluded Ilocos Norte Palarong Pambansa will fight for all the marbles in the country’s biggest grassroots volleyball league backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Cor-

ner and R and B Milk Tea on Saturday. Sam Cantada’s scoring prowess was on full display as the reigning UAAP MVP erupted for a game-high 20 points to bring NUNS closer to adding the SGVIL crown to its collection following its UAAP and Palarong Pambansa conquests.

Harlyn Serneche posted 11 points, Denesse Daylisan had 10 markers while setter Rihanna Navarro tallied 14 excellent sets and added five points for NUNS, which extended its unbeaten winning run to six matches without dropping a single set.

Cantada and Serneche accounted for 11 attacks each as the Lady Bullpups outspiked the Lady Brigadiers, 41-18.

Angel Perez paced EAC, which saw its five-game winning streak snapped, with 13 points off seven kills, five aces and a kill block.

Reymon Jaraula to mount late assaults on the Nicklaus course. With the tournament suddenly up for grabs, van der Valk was clinging to a one-shot lead heading to the par-4 18th. Under immense pressure, he split the fairway with his drive, then dialed in a laser-precise approach that settled just three paces left of the pin. He calmly two-putted from there for par, securing a hard-earned 12-under 272 total and the P430,000 top purse.

The final par, while routine in appearance, proved heartbreakingly decisive for Jahns and Que, whose scorching rounds came within inches of forcing a playoff.

“I started off a bit iffy with my approach shots but still managed to save pars. From No. 5 onwards, though, I really found my rhythm and went on a run with four straight birdies,” said van der Valk.

“But for some reason, I got a little defensive at the backnine. That’s when I started getting into trouble. I struggled to shake it off and ended up making some bogeys, which definitely made things harder for me toward the finish.

“Still, I hung in there,” he said. Asked about Que’s strong push, van der Valk said he wasn’t too worried at first, especially being four-under with nine holes to play.

“But once I started making those bogeys, things definitely got a bit tougher,” he admitted. “But again, I managed to hold on.”

Young PH rowers bag bronze medal in SEA tournament

By Randy M.

YOUTH standouts Mcoy Reyes and Math Jugadora brought pride to the Philippines by clinching the bronze medal in the Junior Men’s Coxless Pair (JM2) event at the Southeast Asian Rowing Federation Championships held in Rayong, Thailand. The promising duo, hailing from the Philippine Rowing Academy–Ternate Rowing Academy in Cavite, trained under the guidance of Olympian and head coach Benjie Tolentino.

Despite having just a month of preparation on a standard course at La Mesa Dam, Reyes and Jugadora impressed the national coaching staff with their skill and determination.

Their performance has sparked interest from the national team coaches, who are now considering the young athletes for future inclusion in the elite national team.

PH rowing head coach Edgardo Maerina said both Reyes, 17, and Jugadora, 15, will soon join the national team’s training sessions at La Mesa Dam. The long-term goal is to prepare them for the Southeast Asian Games two years from now. Their bronze-medal finish in Thailand coincided with a strong showing by the elite Philippine rowing team in Europe.

Olympian Eumir Marcial and former world champion Mark Magsayo join Manny Pacquiao in training camp under Justin Fortune at a park in Los Angeles, California.

Hidilyn Diaz: Jollibee ambassador

Caluag

Bacolod Tay Tung’s Brianna Ang smashes one in. Roman Prospero

Guido van der Valk holds his championship trophy. Manny Marcelo

Kaito made up the men’s team. Three RRQ Kaito members, Denniel “XNova” Gomez, Gabriel “Denjiro” Guinto, and Carl “Minguin” Gallantes, represented Sibol.

Mcoy Reyes and Math Jugadora

RICEALLOCATION.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) approves the request of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to supply 490,000 sacks of rice from June to December 2025, bolstering the welfare agency’s disaster response and feeding programs for vulnerable communities nationwide.

Shown is DWSD Secretary Rex Gatchalian (right) thanking DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. for the approval, underscoring the importance of the rice allocation

4.1% 14.6%

Unemployment rate in April

Underemployment rate in April

2.06 million

Jobless adult Filipinos

Filipino-Chinese chamber pushes wage dialogue

THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) on Friday pushed for consultations with the government on the proposed P200 legislate wage increase and warned that its approval could diminish investor confidence and erode the competitiveness of local industries.

It said that while it acknowledged the intent behind the proposed wage increase, which seeks to improve Filipino workers’ livelihoods, policymakers should consider a more balanced, consultative and region-sensitive approach to wage adjustments.

“As an organization deeply committed to fostering sustainable economic growth, we believe that wage increases should be carefully calibrated—taking into account inflation, regional costof-living disparities, and the financial viability of businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)— the backbone of the Philippine economy,” FFCCCII president Victor Lim said in a statement.

The group warned that a onesize-fits-all legislative mandate, while well-intentioned, risks unintended consequences such as reduced competitiveness of local enterprises, potential job losses, and diminished foreign investment confidence.

The FFCCCII called for continuing tripartite consultations involving labor, business and government to ensure wage policies are equitable, data-driven, and reflective of economic realities.

“We stand ready to collaborate with all stakeholders in crafting solutions that balance workers’ welfare with business sustainability, safeguarding the long-term health of the Philippine economy,” the group said.

The organization expressed hope that through dialogue and evidencebased policymaking, a wage system that is fair, progressive and conducive to inclusive growth can be achieved.

Unemployment rate rose to 4.1% in April, says PSA

UNEMPLOYMENT rate in the Philippines climbed to 4.1 percent in April 2025 from 4.0 percent a year earlier, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Friday.

The jobless rate was also higher than the 3.9 percent recorded in March, it said.

Despite the slight uptick in unemployment, the Philippine labor market continues to demonstrate resilience amid global headwinds, Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) officerin-charge and Undersecretary for policy and planning Rosemarie Edillon said in a statement.

“We remain on track to meet our target

unemployment range of 4.4 to 4.7 percent set under the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028,” she said.

Edillon said the rollout of the Trabaho Para sa Bayan (TPB) Plan and the entry of new investments would help further improve the country’s labor force in the coming months.

Data showed that the number of unemployed persons in April 2025 stood at 2.06 million, up from 2.04 million in April 2024, but lower than the 2.16 million in January 2025, the

PSA said.

The underemployment rate, which measures those working but still looking for more hours, was estimated at 14.6 percent in April 2025, unchanged from April 2024, but higher than 13.4 percent in March. About 7.09 million of the 48.67 million employed Filipinos expressed a desire for additional work hours, an additional job, or a new job with longer hours in April 2025, according to the PSA. The labor force participation rate (LFPR) in April 2025 was estimated at 63.7 percent, lower than 64.1 percent in April 2024. This translates to 50.74 million Filipinos aged 15 and over in the labor force, compared with 50.40 million in April 2024 and 50.65 million in January 2025.

PH braces for impact as US tariff pause ends soon

THE Philippines is bracing for possible economic shocks, with just weeks left before the United States ends its 90-day pause on new tariffs, according to economists from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Economists said while the country is not at the top of Washington’s target list, its key exports like semiconductors and coconut oil could face pressure from America’s shifting trade policy.

The temporary universal 10-percent tariff, rolled out on April 5, replaced more country-specific rates and bought negotiators some time. But the window is closing fast.

While subject to a comparatively lower 17 percent tariff than many neighboring countries, the Philippines still faces significant economic implications and broader volatility threats amid this high-stakes environment.

The PIDS and the BSP hosted a policy forum, “Seizing the Shift: Navigating Trump’s Reciprocal Tariffs,” on May 26, 2025.

“The Philippine economy, however, remains resilient, with inflation at a manageable 1.4 percent as of April 2025. This gives us extra degrees of freedom to ease monetary policy and support goal,” said BSP Deputy Governor Zeno Ronald Abenoja.

Rodrigo Balbontin of the

Pag-IBIG Fund maintains low housing loan rates

THE Pag-IBIG Fund will maintain its low interest rates on housing loans through the end of 2025, continuing efforts to make homeownership more affordable for Filipino workers, a top executive said.

“We are keeping our housing loan interest rates low to help more Filipino workers achieve their dream of homeownership,” said Jose Ramon Aliling, chairperson of the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees and Secretary of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

Aliling said the move is part of DHSUD’s expanded “Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program,”

aligning with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision for a “Bagong Pilipinas” where Filipinos have access to “safe, affordable, and resilient communities.”

“By keeping rates low, we make monthly amortizations more affordable, enabling more of our members—especially those who are minimum-wage earners and from low-income sectors—to finally move into homes they can truly afford,” Aliling said.

Pag-IBIG Fund offers housing loans with interest rates as low as 5.75 percent per annum

repricing period.

Washington-based Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF) delivered a sobering view of the bigger picture: the U.S.-China trade war is now pulling more countries into its orbit and increasing global uncertainty.

“The trade war, driven by geopolitical and economic tensions, risks shrinking the potential of not only the US but also global economies,” he said.

Balbontin cited the “Hamilton Index,” which tracks how countries are performing in advanced industries. It shows China’s rapid ascent, while the U.S., once a powerhouse, is seeing the relative decline of its industrial base.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Philippines’ gross international reserves (GIR) posted a slight increase in May 2025, reaching $105.5 billion from $105.3 billion in April, the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Friday. It said the latest GIR level provides a robust external liquidity buffer, equivalent to 7.3 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income.

“Moreover, it covers about 3.7 times the country’s short-term external debt based on residual maturity,” the BSP said.

The BSP said the month-onmonth increase in the GIR level reflected mainly the upward valuation adjustments in the BSP’s gold holdings due to the increase in the price of gold in the international market, net income from the BSP’s investments abroad and the national government’s net foreign currency deposits with the BSP. The net international reserves (NIR) also increased from $105.26 billion in April to $105.34 billion in May 2025. Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the net increase in the GIR could also be partly attributed to the proceeds of the national government’s $3.29-billion

DITO discloses expansion, adds two new dealer stores in Luzon

By Darwin G. Amojelar

DITO Telecommunity said Friday it rolled out two new authorized dealer stores in Biñan, Laguna and Muntinlupa City as part of its strategy to strengthen local partnerships and create business opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs.

A DITO authorized dealer store operates on a cooperative model, fostering significant collaborations with local micro and small businesses.

“The DITO Authorized Dealer Store Program is more than a business strategy—it’s a commitment to growing alongside Filipino entrepreneurs,” said Adel Tamano, chief revenue officer of DITO Telecommunity.

“By working hand in hand with local micro and small businesses, we’re building a network that reflects the values of trust, inclusivity, and innovation. This isn’t just about expanding our reach—it’s about empowering communities and making sure that progress is shared,” he said.

DITO president and chief executive Eric Alberto earlier said the company would spend about P9 billion over the next two to three years to build 800 additional towers to cover at least 90 percent of the population.

DITO’s network coverage stands at about 86 percent.

The company said it invested over P250 billion in the past five years to expand its network nationwide, resulting in a robust infrastructure with more than 7,000 cell sites.

DITO entered the Philippine telecommunications market on March 8, 2021, aiming to challenge the duopoly of Globe Telecom and PLDT Inc.

OKADASCHOLARS.

Okada Manila teams up with the School for Experiential and Entrepreneurial Development (SEED Philippines) to provide scholarships that support agri-education and handson training for young Filipinos as part of its commitment to sustainable community development. The initiative is part of the integrated resort’s Okada Green Heart program, under its talent and community pillar. Shown are Okada Manila representatives during their visit at the SEED campus at the Gawad Kalinga Bayanihan Village in Cavite for a community immersion and check handover ceremony.

PSE expects improved trading following CMEPA enactment

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) hailed the passage of the Capital Markets Efficiency Promotions Act (CMEPA), calling it a major step toward improving trading activity and liquidity in the local stock market.

The PSE said the law, which will reduce the stock transaction tax (STT) to 0.1 percent from 0.6 percent, is a much-awaited reform that will benefit stock market investors. It will boost the local bourse’s competitiveness compared to foreign markets, it said.

Before the law was passed, the PSE had one of the highest friction costs in the ASEAN region.

Republic Act No. 12214 or the CMEPA law is expected to encourage ordinary Filipinos to invest in the Philippine capital markets and pro-

mote inclusive growth. It expands the scope of the STT to cover more types of securities traded through local stock exchanges. This change provides more clarity on tax rules for the secondary trading of different asset classes beyond equities and will help pave the way for new market products. The law also includes other key provisions to support capital market development. It introduces a broader and clearer definition of securities to simplify tax treatment for different financial instruments, which is expected to support the creation of new

products such as derivatives. Another provision reduces the documentary stamp tax on the original issuance of shares to 0.75 percent of the par value from 1 percent. The PSE said this would benefit companies issuing new shares through initial public offerings or other equity listings. The law also provides an additional 50-percent tax deduction for private employers who match or exceed their employees’ contributions to the Personal Equity and Retirement Account (PERA). This move is expected to encourage more stock market transactions.

Prime Infra unit launches plastic bottle recycling drive to cut waste

PRIME Integrated Waste Solutions (PWS), a subsidiary of Prime Infra, has launched a resource recovery initiative focused on collecting and diverting post-consumer plastic bottles. PWS’s materials recovery facility (MRF) in Cebu recently delivered 6.2 metric tons of baled PET bottles to PETValue Philippines Corp., the country’s largest bottle-to-bottle recycling facility.

“Resource recovery is a key pillar in our sustainable waste management strategy,” said Cara Peralta, market sector lead for waste at Prime Infra, in a statement.

“By efficiently reclaiming PET bottles, we not only reduce waste but also create measurable environmental value that supports our broader sustainability goals,” Peralta said.

PWS aims to steadily increase the volume of PET bottles delivered to PETValue and plans to replicate the initiative at its Pampanga facility, she said.

PETValue, a joint initiative by Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. and Indorama Ventures, uses advanced technologies for recycling PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic bottles.

Beyond bottle diversion, PWS is also generating and selling verified plastic credits to help businesses reduce their plastic footprint.

“Whether through diverting plastic bottles from the waste stream or enabling plastic credit offsets, our focus remains the same: maximizing the value of recovered materials and helping our partners meet their sustainability goals,” Peralta said.

SEC launches AI-powered chatbot to handle queries

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said Friday it launched a new chatbot powered by artificial intelligence (AI) to help the public with questions about its rules and regulations.

The chatbot, called SEC AInnovation, was launched on June 2, 2025 to give users real-time answers and explain the SEC’s processes in a simple way.

The system uses legal sources such as the Revised Corporation Code (Republic Act No. 11232), the Securities Regulation Code (Republic Act No. 8799) and other SEC rules, guidelines, circulars, advisories and

services.

SEC AInnovation aims to reduce the need for people to do manual research or visit SEC offices for help. The chatbot can understand and respond in English, Filipino, Bisaya and other local languages. It uses a natural language processing engine to better understand how people speak.

“This initiative is all about breaking barriers and making our services faster, smarter and more accessible to everyone, not just in the Philippines but all over the world. This system is built to communicate the way you do, breaking language barriers and making sure that everyone feels heard and understood,” said outgoing SEC chairman Emilio Aquino during the launch.

“It’s a fusion of AI and innovation, reflecting the Commission’s strong commitment to leveraging advanced technology to better serve the public. This platform represents the Commission’s bold step into the future,” he said. The chatbot also includes other features such as voice input and clickable topic links to make it easier for users to interact with the platform. Jenniffer B. Austria

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Adel Tamano, chief revenue officer of DITO Telecommunity

Gov’t forms semiconductor advisory council

By Othel V. Campos

THE government launched the Semiconductor and Electronics Industry Advisory Council (SEIAC) to support the goals of the industry roadmap, which positions the Philippines as a global partner in packaging $70 billion worth of semiconductors, assembling $40 billion in electronics and delivering world-class integrated circuit (IC) design services by 2030.

Created through Administrative Order No. 31, the SEIAC is composed of ten government agencies and one private sector representative. It is mandated to meet regularly to monitor progress, address emerging challenges and identify new opportunities in this vital sector.

Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (SAPIEA) and SEIAC chair Frederick Go said the initiative would strengthen the country’s role

in the global semiconductor and electronics value chain and contribute to the creation of 128,000 new jobs by the end of the decade.

“The SEI Advisory Council aims to address the problems, issues, and concerns of industry players and find solutions for these. It will focus on improving the ease of doing business for the assembly, test and packaging [ATP] segment and developing a talent pool for the IC design sector,” Go said.

SATURDAY, JUNE 7, 2025

extrastory2000@gmail.com

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

WESM operator seeks ERC nod for additional

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines, Inc. (IEMOP), operator of the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), is asking provisional approval from the Energy Regulatory Commission to recover from consumers additional market fees of P1 billion for the IEMOP Electricity Market Management System (IEMMS).

IEMOP said in a filing with the ERC the market transaction fees would cover the cost of the IEMMS project for 2025 to 2027 which is urgently needed by the WESM. The amount will be imposed in addition to the prevailing market fee

P1-b fees

rate at the time of the commission’s approval, it said.

The agency said the current market management system (MMS), an infrastructure composed of hardware, software and associated interfaces that support the operations of the WESM, reached its useful life of almost nine years and has shown signs of performance degradation, having been commissioned in 2015.

“Moreover, the current MMS is increasingly constrained by technological obsolescence because its hardware and software components, which form the backbone of market operations, are now approaching or have reached their end-of-support period,” IEMOP said.

April factory output rebounded 4.2%

PHILIPPINE factory production rebounded 4.2 percent in April from a year ago, following a 2-percent slump in March, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Friday.

The volume of production index (VoPI) saw a 7.3-percent increase in April 2024.

Data showed that the upturn in VoPI growth was primarily driven by an 18.3-percent annual increase in the manufacture of basic metals, which declined 43.7 percent in March.

The PSA said of the 21 other industry divisions, 11 showed annual increases in April, while 10 experienced annual decreases.

The VoPI for food products recorded a slower annual increase of 11.2 percent in April 2025, from 17.2 percent in March 2025. In April 2024, the VoPI for food products increased 7.2 percent.

The deceleration in food product manufacturing was due to a downturn in annual growth rates across seven of eight industry groups. This was led by

Néstea, Mama Sita’s, Coca-Cola named fastest-growing brands in PH

By Othel V. Campos

NÉSTEA, Mama Sita’s and Coca-Cola have emerged as the fastest-growing FMCG brands in the Philippines, according to the 2025 Brand Footprint Report by Worldpanel from Kantar, a global expert in shopper and consumer behavior.

FMCG refers to fast-moving consumer goods that are in high demand and sell quickly.

Topping the list is beverage brand Nestea, which saw a 28-percent increase in consumer reach points (CRP), a unique metric that measures both the number of households purchasing a brand and the frequency of their purchases.

The growth was based on data from the 12 months ending October 2024, where one CRP represents a single purchase occasion by a shopper. Close behind is Mama Sita’s, a beloved

Filipino brand known for its condiments and marinades, which achieved a 26-percent rise in CRP from the previous year.

Coca-Cola completed the top three with a 24-percent growth in CRP during the same period.

This marked the first time that both Mama Sita’s and Coca-Cola entered the Philippines’ top 5 fastest rising FMCG brands list compiled by Worldpanel.

“We are seeing a bustling economy where Filipinos are more on the go and exposed to a growing number of options. While shoppers purchase FMCG products through multiple channels, they have become more discerning about the brands they choose. Filipinos now look for packaged goods that are consistently available and accessible in the right format, at the right price, and for the right consumption occasion,” said Worldpanel Shopper Insights director Laurice Obana.

a 1.3-percent annual decline in dairy product manufacturing, which had seen a 12.4 percent increase in the previous month, the PSA said.

It said the VoPI for vegetable and animal oils and fats registered a faster annual growth rate of 27.0 percent in April 2025, up from 25.0 percent in the previous month.

Meanwhile, the value of production index (VaPI) rose 4.3 percent annually in April 2025, after a 1.4-percent annual decline in March 2025. In April 2024, the VaPI for manufacturing increased 6.5 percent.

The value of net sales index (VaNSI) for the manufacturing sector showed

a slower year-on-year increase of 4.6 percent in April 2025, compared to 8.2 percent in March 2025.

The deceleration in VaNSI growth was mainly due to a 5.2-percent annual decline in the manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products, which increased 2.1 percent in the previous month. This industry contributed 27.1 percent to the VaNSI’s downtrend.

Based on responding establishments, the average capacity utilization rate for the manufacturing sector in April 2025 was 76.6 percent, up from 76.2 percent in March. In April 2024, the average capacity utilization rate was 74.7 percent.

CDC, Customs launch streamlined system to speed up aircraft parts movement

THE Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and Bureau of Customs–Port of Clark (BOC–Clark) have launched a streamlined customs system to speed up the movement of aircraft parts in and out of the Clark Freeport. Under a signed memorandum order (MO), the maintenance, repair and overhaul–facilitated access for services and trade (MRO–F.A.S.T.) system seeks to cut red tape and standardize procedures for aviation-related businesses in the zone.

“This initiative marks a key step in boosting Clark’s aviation competitiveness,” said CDC president and chief executive Agnes Devanadera.

Clark has become a strategic hub for the MRO industry, where efficient customs processing is critical to timesensitive operations.

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said delays in clearance affect aircraft turnaround and drive up costs.

The MRO–F.A.S.T. System, he said, addresses issues by streamlining procedures and ensuring faster, more predictable processing, key to attracting investment and supporting industry growth.

Devanadera and Rubio signed the MO during the Ease of Doing Business Month celebration on May 30, 2025.

The system covers the import and

FINANCIAL constraints remain the main concern of Filipino consumers, according to Synergy Marketing Research + Strategic Consultancy (Synergy), the exclusive Philippine partner of market research firm YouGov. Synergy recently hosted Market (In) Sights at the Makati Diamond Residences with the theme, “Beyond the Shift: Strategic Insights for Growth in the Conscious Consumer Era”.

Synergy president and chief executive Germaine Reyes said that amid the continuous hike in prices of goods and services, nine in 10 Filipinos practice underconsumption activities through conscious and mindful spending or living the frugal minimalist lifestyle.

“Underconsumption is not just about spending less. But also spend-

export of aircraft parts, including those sent abroad for repair and later returned.

It also introduces a 24-hour processing window for transactions with complete documentation.

Officials said the initiative would benefit registered business enterprises (RBEs) by minimizing downtime, especially during aircraft-on-ground (AOG) emergencies.

Othel V. Campos

IN BRIEF

SB Finance taps PLDT unit for core network

SB FINANCE Inc. tapped PLDT Enterprise to build a robust and independent core network for a secure, scalable and high-performance infrastructure, enabling seamless financial services for its growing customer base.

“At SB Finance, we recognize that digital transformation is not just about adapting to change—it’s about futureproofing our business and ensuring we deliver seamless, secure, and efficient financial services to our customers,” said Abbie Dans-Casanova, president and chief executive of SB Finance. “Partnering with PLDT Enterprise gives us the confidence that our infrastructure is built for scale, ensuring our customers enjoy fast and reliable financial solutions,” she said. The company is actively expanding its footprint, establishing valuable partnerships across different industries. Its growing network reflects the company’s vision of delivering safe, transparent, and customer-focused lending services that support every Filipino’s journey toward financial freedom. Darwin G. Amojelar DA, SRA address sugarcane infestation

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) inspected sugarcane fields in Bacolod City on Thursday, stepping up efforts to combat the red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI), a pest threatening sugar production on Negros Island. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had directed the DA to act swiftly to contain the infestation and prevent its spread across the island, the country’s leading sugar-producing region.

“We have ongoing pesticide spraying operations. With the support of the SRA and our regional office here, I’m confident we can quickly contain the infestation,” Tiu Laurel said. SRA administrator Pablo Luis Azcona said researchers identified a natural predator that could help control the RSSI population. “But that solution will take time. For now, we must act immediately, so we are using chemical pesticides,” Azcona said. Othel V. Campos

Nexperia 3-MWp solar rooftop energized

THE Filinvest Group and ENGIE Services Philippines, through its

ing for something durable and maximizing usage,” Reyes said. She said a new challenge is the current age of disconnection. “To illustrate, 54 percent are already current digital dieters, detoxers and 30 percent will be detoxing or considering to detox/diet in the future. Demographically-speaking, they are the Gen Zs,” Reyes said. She said Gen Zs usually watch videos on social media, check mails or do work related tasks but do take intentional breaks from their digital devices several times a day. GenZs are more into looking for meaningful online activities, Millennials are into investing and GenXers and Baby Boomers look for lifestyle and self-enhancement activities, she said.

TECH

AI phone HONOR 400 5G brings photos to life starting on June 17

LEADING global technology brand HONOR Philippines is set to change the way we remember moments with the upcoming arrival of its groundbreaking AI phone, the HONOR 400 5G. Officially teased today, this nextgeneration smartphone promises to bring old photos to life using cutting-edge artificial intelligence on June 17, live on Facebook: https:// bit.ly/H400Launch_PR.

Launching Soon in the Philippines

Launching in the Philippines on June 17, the HONOR 400 is the latest innovation designed to

blend nostalgia with AI magic.

As part of the teaser campaign, HONOR is inviting fans to join the HONOR Image-to-Video Challenge, a viral trend that transforms old childhood photos

into lifelike video moments using AI. Reviving Memories Through Technology

From cherished portraits to candid family snapshots, the

HONOR 400 5G can animate static memories, a powerful demonstration of how technology can reconnect us with the past in dynamic new ways.

“With the HONOR 400 5G,

we’re not just launching another smartphone, but introducing a new emotional experience. This is the real AI phone, designed to bring your memories back to life and create meaningful moments through innovation.” Said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

With a legacy of pushing boundaries through durable devices and high-end camera phones, HONOR Philippines is doubling down on breakthrough technologies. The teaser video released online has already sparked excitement, showing how the phone’s AI can breathe movement into once-static photos. A clear signal of HONOR’s commitment to making tech more human. Join the Movement Get ready to relive the moments that matter. Stay tuned as HONOR unveils full details at the official launch on June 17, live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/ H400Launch_PR!

Never miss the latest updates and visit HONOR’s official website at www.hihonor.com or follow their social media platforms: Facebook (@HonorPhilippines), Instagram (@honorph), and TikTok (@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/ retailers/.

OONA Insurance is teaming up with Globe, the Philippines’ leading mobile service provider, to offer travel protection bundled directly with Globe prepaid roaming promos, available through the GlobeOne app.

When Globe users buy their prepaid roaming promo for international travel, they have the option to add Oona’s travel insurance for just PHP 49. This seamless integration gives travelers a convenient way to secure coverage right when they need it—during the roaming promo purchase process. “At Globe, we’re always looking for ways to enrich the lives of our customers—even beyond connectivity. By embedding Oona’s travel insurance into our roaming offers, we’re making it easier for Filipinos to explore the world with greater peace of mind. It’s another step forward in delivering everyday essentials through digital experiences that are seamless, intuitive, and purposeful,” Eric Tanbauco, Globe’s Head of Consumer Mobile Business, said. With just a few taps, customers can access:

Up to P1 million in personal accident coverage

Up to P100,000 in medical and emergency expense benefits

Up to P40,000 in travel inconvenience coverage

Available to travelers who are 18 to 75 years old, Oona’s travel insurance can be purchased at checkout when selecting any roaming promo in the GlobeOne app. Customers simply go to the “Buy Promos”, choose their destination and roaming plan, then add Oona’s insurance with one click.

Improve e iciency, productivity with the OPPO Pad SE this 6.6

STILL thinking of what to purchase during OPPO’s 6.6 Mid-Year Mega Sale? You should add the all-new OPPO Pad SE to your shopping carts and get your hands on a device that brings efficiency and productivity to your fingertips.

Whether it’s for powering through tasks while staying on-the-go or simply streaming your favorite shows after a long day at work, a reliable, high-performing gadget that won’t be heavy on your wallet — the OPPO Pad SE is waiting for you.

The OPPO Pad SE offers the core features that matter most — long battery life, smart file sharing, eye-friendly display — all wrapped in a sleek, lightweight body. It’s the ideal pick for students, digital nomads, or anyone who wants reliable performance at a smart price. Streamline your workflow with easy connections and transfers

Imagine jumping from answering emails on your laptop to reviewing notes on your tablet, then taking a quick call on your phone. Having multiple devices to manage can sometimes be a hassle but if all of those are accessible on your tablet, it creates a smooth, uninterrupted flow that keeps you productive and focused.

The OPPO Pad SE allows #EasyTransfersAndAnswers with the O+ Connect, an app that lets you transfer files effortlessly between your phone, tablet, and even a Mac so sharing photos,

Coverage also includes 24/7 travel assistance anywhere in the world and the flexibility to activate protection anytime during the trip.

This bundled offer reflects Oona’s and Globe’s shared goal: to make protection more accessible, practical and worry-free for Filipino travelers, right from the moment they plan their journey.

“At Oona, we believe that protection should be simple, accessible and built into the everyday decision people make, like booking a trip,” said Nicasio “Ninoy” Rollan III, CEO of Oona Philippines. “By partnering with Globe, we are making it easier than ever for Filipinos to travel with confidence, knowing they’re covered from the moment they activate their roaming plan.” For more information, visit https://partner. myoona.ph/globe/travel/faq/. For other details of Oona’s products, visit https://myoona.ph/allproduct/. To learn more about Globe roaming promos, download or visit the GlobeOne app https://globe.onelink.me/13NI/G1Oona. Oona Travel

tasks.

accessing documents, or dragging and dropping files across screens becomes second nature. You can multitask efficiently through the option of mirroring your phone onto the tablet in a floating window — perfect for replying to messages or referencing notes while working. In addition to the seamless connectivity is the

access to Google Gemini, the OPPO Pad SE’s AI Assistant that can be easily toggled by simply long-pressing the power button or the Google Gemini logo on the corner of the screen. This is already an easy way to answer any questions you have in mind.

Safe for eyes that work and binge non-stop Spending long hours glued to your screen for work, studying, or even binge-watching can lead to eye strain that leaves you feeling drained by the end of the day. It’s a common issue in today’s screen-heavy routines and can affect productivity, focus, and overall well-being. The OPPO Pad SE comes with an 11-inch EyeCare LCD Display that has Low Blue Light and is Flicker-Free Certified, so you can #BingeAllDayAndNight in comfort. For optimal focus on the important things, its TÜV Rheinland-certified Matte Display variant cuts glare by up to 97%, making reading, streaming, or editing under bright lights easier than ever.

Powerful battery that can keep up with you It’s common to forget about the battery percentage of your device when you’re in the zone with the task at hand. And before you know it, your device is already flashing low-battery warnings, disrupting your momentum or, worse, causing an unexpected shutdown.

There’s no need to worry about your workflow if you have the OPPO Pad SE as your goto device for all your tasks. With its massive 9340mAh battery, you can #WatchTilYouDrop for up to 11 hours or vibe to your favorite playlists for 80 hours straight. But when it’s time to refuel, its 33W SUPERVOOC™ fast charging gets you back in action.

Next generation of powerful LG AI TVs is here

THE next evolution in home entertainment is here. Continuing its 12-year legacy of OLED innovation, LG Electronics introduces its 2025 TV lineup, packed with powerful AI, immersive displays, and smart features designed to fit your lifestyle. With next-level AI performance, intuitive controls, advanced display technology, and a refined user interface powered by enhanced processing, LG’s latest TVs deliver a major leap forward in performance, personalization, and everyday convenience.

Leading the Way in Display Technology: OLED evo and QNED evo

Marking 12 years of OLED excellence, LG continues to raise the bar in home entertainment with its 2025 OLED TV lineup.

The latest LG OLED AI B5 delivers lifelike colors and richer hues for a more natural viewing experience, while the LG OLED evo AI C5 enhances brightness with its new Brightness Booster for clearer, more vibrant scenes. At the top of the range, the LG OLED evo AI G5 offers exceptional clarity and immersive visuals in a sleek, premium design— perfect for any modern space.

Pushing boundaries beyond OLED, the LG QNED evo AI impresses with Dynamic QNED Color that brings every scene to life. With a new 100” screen size

option, ultra-slim design, and advanced color technology, LG’s QNED evo series redefines what’s possible for these TVs.

Smarter Performance with α-Series AI Processors LG’s 2025 TVs are powered by the latest lineup of α-series AI processors: α11 AI Processor Gen2, α9 AI Processor Gen8, and α8 AI Processor Gen2, each designed to deliver a smarter, more immersive viewing experience. The α11 AI Processor Gen2 brings the most powerful per-

adaptive sound, and content recommendations, LG’s AI processors help create a viewing experience that feels effortless, personal, and elevated.

A Viewing Experience

Designed for You

LG’s 2025 OLED TV models learn and adapt to you. With a simple press of the AI button, the screen greets you with a personalized welcome and suggests relevant keywords based on your habits and environment. These TVs enable real-time learning, voice recognition,

formance for fast-paced content and premium entertainment. The α9 AI Processor Gen8 delivers incredibly clear and lifelike picture quality. The α8 AI Processor Gen2 ensures smooth and reliable everyday viewing. With intelligent upscaling,

and accurate content recommendations that evolve over time. The new Voice ID feature enhances personalization by instantly recognizing individual users without the need for manual profile switching. Just say, “Show me action movies,” and the TV curates

content tailored to your viewing preferences. With support for user profiles, customizable Quick Cards, app prioritization, and the intuitive AI Concierge, LG’s 2025 lineup transforms the home screen into a smart, dynamic space that responds to your lifestyle.

Next-Level Picture and Sound, Powered by AI Elevate your viewing experience with LG’s AI Picture Pro technology that maps each scene in three dimensions, fine-tuning contrast and detail for incredibly lifelike visuals. At the same time, LG’s AI Sound Pro adapts audio in real time, surrounding you with rich, immersive sound that makes every moment feel cinematic.

Remote Control, Reinvented for You

The AI Magic Remote, redesigned for your smart life, comes standard with the 2025 LG OLED lineup. The AI button has been moved front and center for easier access, replacing the previous mic button. Meanwhile, the new Home button replaces the usual Input button, providing quick access to the Home Hub for effortless management of all your connected devices. Refreshed in design, the remote retains the familiar point, click, and scroll functions, making navigation simple and smooth. Engineered to unify your smart ecosystem, the AI Magic Remote streamlines control across all your devices.

HONOR 400 5G is confirmed to launch in the Philippines.

The OPPO Pad SE is your go-to device for all

Xiaomi presents Redmi Pad 2 4G: Immersive, vibrant entertainment

XIAOMI recently unveiled the Redmi Pad 2 4G — an entry-level entertainment tablet designed to bring upgraded features to a wider audience.

Featuring a high-definition display, robust battery life, powerful performance, and running on the latest Xiaomi HyperOS 2, the Redmi Pad 2 4G delivers an immersive experience for everyday entertainment.

Vivid visuals and rich sound, built for everyday enjoyment

The Redmi Pad 2 4G features an expansive 11-inch 2.5K display, offering crystal-clear detail and vibrant colors for streaming, browsing, and casual gaming.

With a pixel density of 274 ppi and a 90Hz AdaptiveSync refresh rate, visuals stay exceptionally smooth even during fast-moving scenes. Featuring DC dimming and TÜV Rheinland certifications for Low Blue Light (Software Solution), Flicker Free, and Circadian Friendly, the Redmi Pad 2 4G ensures all-day eye comfort. Complementing the display is a quadspeaker setup with Dolby Atmos® and Hi-Res Audio, delivering an immersive sound experience for music, movies, and games.

Seamless interaction with Xiaomi HyperOS 2

Powered by Xiaomi HyperOS 2, the Redmi Pad 2 4G delivers a connected experience that integrates effortlessly across Xiaomi phones and tablets.

With Xiaomi Interconnectivity features such as call sync, network sync, and shared clipboard, the tablet enables more intuitive workflows and greater flexibility across screens. Call sync allows incoming phone calls to be answered directly on the tablet, allowing you to stay connected without switching devices. When Wi-Fi is unavailable, network sync steps in, enabling quick access to your phone’s hotspot with a single tap. Meanwhile, shared clipboard makes it easier to copy and paste text and images between your phone and tablet, as though working on the same device. Together, these features streamline daily workflows and enhance cross-device convenience.

Reliable performance and mobility with a sleek design

Equipped with the MediaTek Helio G100-Ultra processor, the Redmi Pad 2 4G delivers strong per-

formance and an immersive experience for everyday entertainment.

A massive 9000mAh battery supports long viewing sessions and extended use with fewer charging breaks. For those who need connectivity on the go, the Redmi Pad 2 4G offers the same entertainment-focused experience, featuring dual-SIM and dual 4G support. From watching shows during commutes to enjoying music or videos in outdoor settings, the Redmi Pad 2 4G enables on-the-go access to content without relying on Wi-Fi. The Redmi Pad 2 4G also features a metal unibody design, offering users a sophisticated tactile experience. The Redmi Pad 2 4G also supports key accessories that enhance its versatility for entertainment and creativity. The Redmi Smart Pen offers a 60Hz refresh rate7 and millisecond-level low latency8 — delivering precise input for writing, sketching, and

note-taking. Requiring just 10 grams of activation force, it enables a natural, pen-on-paper experience. Meanwhile, the Redmi Pad 2 Cover adds 360° protection and supports smart wake and sleep functionality, while its adjustable stand ensures stable, hands-free viewing with added comfort. Price and availability

The Redmi Pad 2 4G is available on the official Xiaomi store on Shopee and Lazada, as well as authorized Xiaomi stores nationwide in Graphite Gray, with two variants: 6GB+128GB (P10,499), and 8GB+256GB (P12,499). A free Redmi Smart Pen or Redmi Buds 6 Active is also available as a Shopee exclusive from June 5 to 18, along with P500 off with the special voucher code RMIPAD2. Enjoy immersive entertainment and get your own Redmi Pad 2 4G today!

G-SHOCK Philippines launches latest timepieces

THE Piazza at Venice Grand Canal Mall was packed with energy and adrenaline as G-SHOCK launched their latest timepiece, an exclusive pop-up event headlined by basketball star Dwight Ramos.

The event brought together fans, media, influencers, and the GSHOCK community for a celebration of toughness, style, and Filipino athleticism.

Guests got a glimpse into GSHOCK’s legacy of durability through the History Wall and a look at exciting new releases, including the GM-110D and a sneak peek at the upcoming GMW-B5000D modeled by Dwight himself.

The iconic GA-110-1A was also displayed, showcasing the same unrelenting spirit that drives athletes like Ramos to push beyond limits. The Limitless series was showcased with a Pro-Rock truck as the ultimate watch for every outdoor adventure.

The latest G-SHOCK timepieces highlight what the brand does best, delivering function first, without compromising on style. It’s an approach that resonates with Dwight

Ramos, who doesn’t just wear toughness–he lives it. For an athlete known for his resilience on and off the court, G-SHOCK is more than a watch; it’s a reliable companion

AFTER months of teasing and speculation, Hongqi Philippines finally launched its highly anticipated electric models – EH7 and EHS7. The debut of the vehicles is a benchmark moment for the Philippine electric vehicle market, and a sign of wonderful things to come for Asia’s oldest luxury marque.

The EH7 and EHS7 are in a class of their own, combining top-tier performance, opulent design, and sustainable, eco-friendly technology, making each drive a uniquely luxurious experience. From the moment one steps into either of the two vehicles, it’s noticeable just how much attention to detail was put into making them. Both vehicles have hand-stitched Nappa leather seats, 99% UV protection glass roofs, and a soundproof front door glass, all of which are supplemented

that meets the demands of his everyday grind. “It always starts with function. But I also care about how something fits into my lifestyle,” says Dwight. That’s what makes G-

and EHS7 automatically adapt to all kinds of road surfaces, allowing for consistently smooth sailing for each drive.

This beautiful interior is, of course, enveloped in the models’ beautiful exterior, carefully crafted to represent Hongqi’s new visual language. The sharper lines of the vehicle provide a look that’s both polished and dynamic, meeting right at the point where strength and speed meet finesse and style. All of these design features, however, are nothing without the power of the vehicles’ engines. Both the EH7 and the EHS7 feature the same dual-motor AWD setup delivering, with an astonishing output of 455 kW (610 hp) and 756 Nm of torque. This translates to an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds for the EH7, and 3.9 seconds for the EHS7. All this power owes to the models being powered by a whopping 111 kWh next generation battery pack, which offers a single-charge driving range of up to 650km for the EH7 and 540km for the EHS7. The battery also charges at tip-top speeds, recharging from 10% to 80% in 20 minutes.

The strength of these vehicles also do not come at the expense of safety. With a prestigious 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating for both vehicles, every driver will be comforted in knowing that whenever they ride a Hongqi EH7 or EHS7, the robust structural integrity, intelligent safety technologies, and comprehensive suite of advanced driver as-

Alibaba Cloud, De La Salle unite to boost AI, cloud computing in PH

ALIBABA Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, recently forged a partnership with De La Salle University (DLSU), one of the Philippines’ leading academic institutions, to equip students with cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing technologies. This collaboration reinforces Alibaba Cloud’s commitment to addressing the growing talent gap in AI and related fields in the Philippines. Addressing the Philippines’ AI Talent Gap

The collaboration, part of the Alibaba Cloud Academic Empowerment Program (AAEP), aims to empower DLSU students and faculty by providing specialized training, certifications, and hands-on learning experiences in AI and cloud computing. According to the Philippine Institute of Development Studies (PIDS), the country faces a significant talent shortage in AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity, underscoring the urgent need for continuous talent development. “As AI and cloud computing reshape industries and create new opportunities, we are excited to collaborate with Alibaba Cloud to empower DLSU’s students as vital contributors to our economy and national development,” said Shirley Chu, Assistant Dean for External Affairs and Lasallian Mission, DLSU College of Computer Studies, “This

DLSU students get to develop in-demand AI and cloud computing expertise through Alibaba Cloud’s AAEP

Empowering the Next Generation of AI and Cloud Professionals

SHOCK perfect—it’s dependable. Dwight Ramos took center stage, sharing his personal toughness journey and deepening his connection with the brand and its community. “Throughout my career I have had a lot of injuries and also before I got from where I am now I have a lot of hardship but I just stay positive and tough and just keep showing up every day and do what I have to do no matter what’s going on,” said Dwight. The athlete took on the Vertical Jump Challenge and Shoot Out Challenge, where fans joined him in testing their skills and had a chance to take photos with him at the BasketballThemed Photo Booth.

A lucky guest joined Dwight for the Ultimate Shooting Challenge, walking away with an exclusive autographed G-SHOCK jersey. The day wrapped up with an intimate meet and greet session with Dwight Ramos, and a final invite for guests to test their own toughness at the interactive challenge booth proving that toughness isn’t just a trait, it’s a lifestyle.

sistance systems (ADAS) at Level 2 autonomy keep them safe. Notable in the ADAS features, in particular, are things such as automatic emergency braking, a 360-degree around-view monitor, as well as a parking assist feature.

Taking all the foregoing into account, the EH7 and EHS7 are manifesting a new dawn for both luxury vehicles and electric vehicles, by blending strength, style, speed, sustain ability, and safety.

Coming in both Executive and Flagship variants, the EH7 starts at ₱2,280,000.00 for the Executive and ₱2,880,000.00 for the Flagship variant. Similarly, the EHS7 starts at ₱2,580,000.00 for the Executive and ₱3,080,000.00 for the Flagship variant.

The AAEP initiative collaborates directly with accredited educational institutions to provide resources for students, educators, and researchers. Through this partnership, students and educators from DLSU will benefit from industryrelevant AI and cloud computing courses, hands-on labs, and opportunities to earn Alibaba Cloud certifications.

“Alibaba Cloud is dedicated to bringing digital intelligence to academic institutions in the Philippines, through our academic empowerment program,” said Allen Guo, General Manager for the Philippines, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence. “We are excited to partner with DLSU, a prominent institution known for its exceptional technological expertise. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our efforts to cultivate a skilled digital workforce that meets the evolving demands of the labor market.” Comprehensive Training for Skill Development

The partnership introduces a series of training programs aimed at engaging the entire university community, including students from computer science and other disciplines. The program launched in April 2025 with its first session, AI Learning Journey, offering participants an introduction to AI fundamentals and Alibaba Cloud’s AI infrastructure, services, and solutions.

Drivers who choose the Flagship variants get the chance to add premium enhancements such as upgraded interior ambient lighting, a more advanced audio system, and exclusive design touches with added power and range. Hongqi will, however, make it easier for the innovators daring enough to get their hands on the vehicles right away. Through Hongqi’s exclusive early bird promo, the first 30 customers who pre-order the EH7 or EHS7 will receive a complimentary 3kW portable charger and a 7kW wall charger, ensuring convenient charging both at home and on the go. To further simplify the

transition to electric, they’re also offering six months of free charging or up to ₱50,000 worth of charging credits at EVOxCharge stations nationwide. With these incredible perks, Hongqi makes it easier than ever to start switching to the luxury electric lifestyle. With pre-orders now officially open to the public, those interested may visit Hongqi’s official website at https://www.hongqi.ph. The marque’s other vehicles can also be explored at Hongqi showrooms nationwide in BGC, Manila Bay, Alabang and Quezon City. Additional information and updates are available through Hongqi’s official Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/hongqi.philippines/, Instagram at @hongqi. ph, and LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/ company/hongqiphilippines/

The Redmi Pad 2 4G delivers an immersive experience for everyday entertainment.

G-SHOCK PH and Dwight Ramos bring the heat at Venice Grand Canal Mall.

Hongqi EHS7

Hongqi

SHOWBIZ

WHAT began as a repeatedly rejected film script has now found new life as a successful digital series, proving that persistence and creative vision can turn setbacks into triumph.

Director Dolly Dulu, known for celebrated works The Boy Foretold by the Stars and Love Beneath the Stars, initially faced disappointment when the screenplay Si Sol at Si Luna was passed over by multiple festivals, including the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, where it made the top 16 but failed to secure final selection.

“Of course, I was saddened by the rejection,” Dulu said in an interview.

How Dolly Dulu’s

oft-rejected lm script became a hit digital series

“We needed more conflict, more hooks to keep viewers engaged,” Dulu explained, adding that the expanded format also allowed deeper exploration of side characters

The series follows Sol (Zaijan Jaranilla), a film student who documents love despite never having experienced it himself, and Luna (Jane Oineza), a grieving woman whose chance encounter with Sol leaves a lasting impact.

Dulu’s story and journey inspire new filmmakers.

“You have to give yourself time to grieve a rejection,” Dulu said. “But if you believe in your story, don’t give up. Sometimes, a ‘no’ just means there’s a better path.”

Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad noted the series’ strong reception. “The decision to adapt Si Sol at Si Luna into a digital series has proven successful, with viewers eagerly engaging and expressing how the story resonates with them.”

Island girl Kai Espenido eyes Binibining Pilipinas

FILIPINO-AUSTRALIAN beauty queen

Kathleen Enid “Kai” Espenido, known for her appearance in Pinoy Big Brother, is among the official candidates for Binibining Pilipinas 2025, representing the island of Siargao. Behind her poised presence on stage is a compelling story shaped by personal loss and life-changing challenges.

The 21-year-old surfer, actress, and fashion model, who currently holds the Miss Fit Philippines title, lost her father, Frank, during her teenage years.

Shortly after, Typhoon Odette struck Siargao in 2021, damaging their family’s livelihood. Her mother, Liezl was left to run their hostel while raising the family on her own.

To support them, Kai left for Manila and joined the reality show Pinoy Big Brother

Kumunity Season 10

“Still reeling from my dad’s passing, Typhoon

Odette ravaged Siargao and left us with nothing. As the eldest, I knew I had to do something,” Kai said.

“It was a good thing that I joined because I learned how to react to situations better, and the experience boosted my self-confidence,” she carried on.

Using the cash prize she received from the reality show, she began rebuilding her family’s life in Siargao while inspiring others with how, from zero and despite the struggles, she has helped herself and her family. Now, their hostel is thriving again.

Though she initially dismissed pageantry, Kai said Catriona Gray win Miss Universe in 2018 inspired her to consider a similar path. After joining Mutya ng Butuan and finishing first runner-up, she committed to competing seriously.

“I was one of the few bi-racial girls in Siargao at the time, so my fellow islanders often teased me to become an actress or a beauty queen. But I was very young, and I didn’t take it seriously,” Kai shared.

As she prepares for the national pageant, Kai is undergoing intensive training under Reign Project Management, which includes sessions in fitness, styling, question-andanswer, and personality development.

“I’m blessed to have amazing mentors and a team with me every step of the way. I just need to focus on myself, be religious in my fitness training, and be mindful of my decisions,” Kai noted.

Outside of pageantry, Kai launched the KAI Project—short for Knowledge, Action, and Inspiration—on her birthday earlier this year. The initiative supports vulnerable communities, including single mothers and underprivileged children. She recently visited Nayon ng Kabataan in Mandaluyong, where she donated hygiene kits to about 100 children.

“It’s important to create a supportive community that fosters growth and resilience,” the aspiring Binibini emphasized. Kai also plans to launch a swimwear brand and pursue a career in fashion. Looking back on past body-shaming, she shared, “No one deserves that, but I’m grateful because it pushed me to focus on the positive. I may never be enough for others, but for myself and those who love me, I am more than enough.”

Binibining Pilipinas 2025 will take place on June 15 at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

The series, now streaming on Puregold Channel’s YouTube, has drawn viewers with its heartfelt storytelling and striking visuals. The next episode, “New Management,” will see whether Sol gathers the courage to approach Luna—a moment fans are eagerly anticipating.

Dulu says the show’s success proves that good things come to those who wait. “What’s meant for you will find its way.” Catch new episodes of Si Sol at Si Luna every Saturday on the Puregold Channel YouTube page.

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

Actress Jane Oineza portrays Luna in an emotional moment from the second episode of the digital series

Director Dolly Dulu reshapes the originally rejected lm concept into a weekly digital series streaming on the Puregold Channel

Jane Oineza (left) and Zaijan Jaranilla meet in a quiet but meaningful rst encounter that sets the story of ‘Si Sol at Si Luna’ in motion

Actor Zaijan Jaranilla portrays Sol, a film student chasing the idea of love through his documentary project

SATURDAY, JUNE 7, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

By Jasper Valdez

SHOPPING platform Lazada is banking on personalization to redefine how Filipinos shop online, as it launches its 6.6 Super Wow Sale campaign with a closer look at its AI-powered features.

At a media lunch held June 2 at 205 Restaurant in Bonifacio Global City, Lazada officials shared how the app is shifting toward a smarter, more intuitive shopping experience ahead of its major mid-year sale.

“This is quite an important campaign for us because it bridges from our birthday to before the end of the year,” said Lazada Philippines Commercial Director for Electronics, Mishie de la Cruz. “It’s no surprise we’ve been highlighting tech and AI a lot; that’s something we’re proud of.”

The company introduced LazzieChat, a conversational tool within the app that helps buyers receive tailored product suggestions. But personalization, Lazada says, goes beyond chatbot exchanges.

“Interact with your app—browse, add to cart, collect vouchers,” de la Cruz explained. “That actually helps teach the algorithm what matters to you.”

Shoppers will now notice that their app layout, homepage content, and recommendations are shaped by their behavior over time.

One user might see kitchen tools and

By Nickie Wang

How algorithms are changing the way Filipinos shop

sneakers, while another might be fed skincare and phone deals.

“If the two of them open their apps, it might look very different,” she added.

Lazada Philippines’ commercial director for fashion, Joey Bienvenida, emphasized how this approach supports Lazada’s broader push to make shopping feel more human and seamless.

“The goal is to offer buyers an easier buying experience,” she said. “We’re also

introducing features like virtual try-ons, especially in fashion, so you can see how a pair of shoes might look on your feet without having to go to the mall.”

Lazada Philippines CEO, Carlos Barrera, noted that personalization and brand trust are part of a wider strategy to strengthen the platform’s position in a fast-growing digital economy.

“We’ve been running 6.6 for nearly a decade,” he said. “This year, we’re doubling down on brand partnerships,

personalization, and the investments that help build long-term trust with our shoppers.”

Alongside the AI rollout, Lazada is reinforcing its focus on trust through its curated LazMall platform.

Both de la Cruz and Bienvenida highlighted how authenticity, fast delivery, and worry-free returns remain key pillars of the campaign.

Betting big on bright ideas at Innovision 2025

INNOVATION for its own sake often serves the few. Innovation with purpose, backed by education and access, has a chance to serve the many. The latter is what Innovision 2025 is working to build—a future worth investing in. Placing young Filipino talent at the center of a global conversation on emerging technologies, the Philippine Coding Camp’s Innovision 2025 is doing what most tech gatherings in the country rarely achieve. It’s pushing for innovation with purpose. But what is it exactly?

Innovision 2025 is reshaping the local tech education landscape. The grassroots

learning initiative scales by focusing on skills development that’s both inclusive and adaptable.

“We started during the pandemic by bridging the learning gaps through after-class programs. Now, we are present across the country, and we have more than 10,000 learners to date,” PCC CEO Gabriel Sampedro

Launched on its fifth anniversary, the startup behind Innovision has come a long way since its early pandemic-era coding classes for children. Today, the Philippine Coding Camp (PCC) partners with major corporations and academic institutions to expand tech education, most recently working with Toyota Motor Philippines, Japan Tobacco International, De La Salle University, and

Lyceum of the Philippines University.

Innovision 2025, held on May 30 and 31 at De La Salle University, drew about 500 in-person and virtual attendees. It featured international speakers, tech experts, and government officials from agencies such as the Department of Science and Technology and the Philippine Space Agency.

What sets Innovision apart is its open-door approach. Sampedro makes it clear that the event is not limited to IT professionals or experienced developers. Even those with no tech background but with a strong idea and the right collaborators are encouraged to join.

The focus on emerging technologies— from AI and blockchain to space and satellite tech—underscores PCC’s ambition to expose Filipino youth to high-growth sectors. But it’s the deliberate effort to include students and young professionals from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao that gives this movement its real edge. By going beyond Metro Manila, Innovision acknowledges a basic truth: talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not.

“That’s why we are making the program accessible and inclusive,” Sampedro added. “So, if you’re not an IT expert, if you have an idea, you can look for like-minded people and come up with that great idea yourself.”

The lineup of speakers from institutions like Kumoh National Institute of Technology in South Korea, Telkom University in Indonesia, and local firms such as P&G and Lancaster Group of Companies brought valuable expertise and an international perspective during the event.

“Innovision is our platform for bringing together different experts from different countries. We’ve flown in experts from Taiwan, Indonesia, and even our government partners. We’re bringing together different experts to help our efforts in upscaling the Philippines,” Sampedro said.

“It’s not just about lower prices anymore,” de la Cruz said. “It’s about making sure each shopper gets the deal that’s right for them.”

The 6.6 sale kicked off at 8:00 p.m. on June 5 and runs until June 8 via the Lazada app and website.

Lazada’s 6.6 Super Wow Sale, one of its biggest annual events, features deals from top local and international brands in electronics, fashion, home appliances, and more. But this year, the company hopes its tech-driven approach will be the real draw.

THE image of Our Lady of theAnnunciata at Boso-Boso Church was officially crowned, becoming the seventh canonical image in the Diocese of Antipolo. The event included a solemn procession, with the image adorned in floral arrangements by stylist Dave Sandoval

The e-commerce platform aims to rede ne online shopping in the Philippines by emphasizing personalization in its 6.6 Super Wow Sale campaign through its AI-powered features

Lazada Philippines commercial director for electronics Mishie de la Cruz (left) and commercial director for fashion Joey Bienvenida share how the app is shifting toward a smarter, more intuitive shopping experience ahead of its major mid-year sale

From left: Engr. Roel de la Cruz of Philippine Space Agency; Dr. Made Adi Paramartha Putra, postgrad director of Primakara University – Bali, Indonesia; Gabriel Sampedro, Philippine Coding Camp CEO and founder; and Prof. Arun Kumar Sangaiah of National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, Taiwan

Lazada Philippines CEO Carlos Barrera emphasizes personalization and brand trust to strengthen the platform’s position