Manila Standard - 2025 June 17 - Tuesday

By Cherrie Anne Villahermosa

‘Crisis mode’ amid MidEast tensions

•1 Pinoy critically wounded in Israel •18 OFWs stranded in Dubai repatriated

By Charles Dantes, Vito Barcelo, Maricel Cruz and Ram Superable

PRESIDENT

Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered key government agencies to be on “crisis mode” as missile strikes between Iran and Israel continue, with at least 18 OFWs bound for Tel Aviv and Amman repatriated yesterday after getting stranded in Dubai due to the shutdown of major airports in the Middle East.

“Right now, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) are in crisis mode and on heightened alert to help the OFWs and their families,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro on Monday said.

“The DMW and OWWA should ensure the safety and well-being of the OFWs affected by the tension here in the Middle East,” she added.

Asked if forced repatriation is being considered, Castro said: “We have not yet reached that point, but our agencies are ready if needed.”

There are over 2 million Filipinos working or residing in the Middle East. The DFA said about 50,000 are in Israel while approximately 2,000 are in Iran. Philippine Ambassador to Israel

Chronic woes hound school opening: Lack of teachers, classrooms

By Charles Dantes and Ram Superable

fire damaged one of the school’s buildings Sunday. Our immediate concern is to find space for the children so that their learning will not be hampered,” said Quezon City Schools Division Superintendent Carleen Sedilla.

According to the Alliance of Concerned Teachers, the government has yet to adequately address the gaps in education, including shortages in classrooms, teachers and even learning facilities.

“I am truly proud

By Rex Espiritu

EIGHT police chiefs in

By Charles Dantes

SAFE RETURN. Personnel from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) led by Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac assist overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who were repatriated from Israel in the wake of its heightened tensions with Iran. DMW / Facebook

OATH OF OFFICE. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez administers the oath of office to Davao Del Norte 1st District Rep.Oyo Uy, Cagayan 3rd District Rep. Jojo Lara, Davao De Oro 2nd District Rep. Jhong Ceniza, Davao De Oro Governor Raul Mabanglo and Laak, Davao De Oro Mayor Mark Anthony Libuangan during a simple ceremony held at the Manila Golf and Country Club in Makati City Monday afternoon.Also in photo is Senior Deputy Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Sandro Marcos. Ver Noveno

ENGAGING LEARNERS. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (inset) attends the opening of classes at Epifanio Delos Santos Elementary School (EDSES) in Malate, City of Manila on June 16, 2025.

Rody’s lawyers expect release

FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte’s lawyers are optimistic that his interim release “will be granted at the soonest possible time,” Vice President Sara Duterte said yesterday, days after her father’s defense lawyers filed a motion for his interim release.

The former president’s lawyers did not give a timeline on when they expect the International Criminal Court (ICC) to rule on the interim release request for the former president, the Vice President said in a press conference here. “Lagi niyang (lawyer) sinasabi, ‘We are hoping that it will be granted the soonest possible time.’ Iyan ‘yung lagi niyang sagot kapag tinatanong siya about interim release,” she said.

The Vice President said that their family was not given some leeway in nominating a third country where their patriarch can be temporarily released.“Walang binigay na choice sa family. Walang tulong sa ICC,” she said.

The motion to grant an interim release for the Philippines’ 16th president was confirmed last week after the ICC

published several court documents on its website.

The defense panel cited Duterte’s old age and ailing condition among the reasons why he deserved to be given some degree of liberty outside the ICC’s detention facility.

“Ang sa akin lang naman is makakabuti talaga yan sa kanya dahil
80-years old na siya at hindi lahat ng pangangailangan ng 80-years old ay nabibigay ng ICC Detention Unit,” the Vice President said.

“Mas maigi na siguro na mayroon siyang interim release at meron siyang available na nurses and caregivers na mag-assist sa kanya,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Vice President will

be represented by sixteen lawyers as soon as the Senate impeachment court begins its trial over her alleged misuse of confidential funds.

In a press statement citing the document submitted to the Senate impeachment court, Appearance - Ad Cautelam, the defense team of Duterte will be headed by lawyers Philip Sigfrid Fortun, Gregorio Narvasa II, Sheila Sison, Carlo Joaquin Narvasa, Roberto Batungbacal, and Justin Nicol Gular.

It also stated that a written note in the Appearance - Ad Cautelam says a tender copy was given to the House of Representatives but it was not received.

Palace hits Sen. Bato’s AI-generated online post

By Charles Dantes

“Every year, teachers bear the burden of this systemic neglect –from cleaning and repairs to student needs,” ACT chairperson Vladimer Queta said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who personally observed the opening of classes at Epifanio Delos Santos Elementary School in Manila with Education Secretary Sonny Angara yesterday, vowed sweeping reforms in the country’s public education system, including the hiring of thousands of new teachers and administrative staff, improved internet connectivity, and enhanced health and welfare services for students.

“I was explaining to our teachers that for them, to lessen their workload to reduce the administrative duties, we will hire 20,000 new teachers. As of now, out of that 20,000, at least 16,000 new teachers have been hired by DepEd,” President Marcos told reporters during his visit.

DepEd data showed there is a shortfall of 56,000 teachers. Once the 20,000 teaching positions have been filled up this year, the backlog to improve the student-teacher ratio would be at 22,000.

“After that, we will get someone so that there is an equivalent hiring for the administrative duties, 10,000 for administrative staff, not teaching but managing the schools,” Mr. Marcos added.

Angara said the nationwide shortage of 165,000 classrooms was a major challenge.

The DepEd chief said there is already a proposal for the construction of 105,000 classrooms in three years under a public-private partnership (PPP).

“If we don’t do this, we will be left behind,” Angara said, earlier warning that at the current pace of construction, it could take over 50 years to eliminate the backlog.

MALACAÑANG on Monday raised concerns over the circulation of an AI-generated video featuring digitally fabricated Filipinos voicing support for Vice President Sara Duterte against impeachment—particularly after highranking officials shared the content. Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro criticized the video, which had been flagged as fake, noting it was shared by Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa and Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte. She warned that sharing such false

content undermines public trust, especially when it comes from people in positions of power.

“It is deeply concerning when government officials themselves share fake news or disinformation,” Castro said. She emphasized that public officials have a responsibility to verify the authenticity of what they share, especially in the age of AI-generated content mimicking real people.

When asked for comment, Dela Rosa said that whether the video was AIgenerated or not, he agreed with its message. “Either way, the point is very clear and I agree with that point. I am

agreeing to the message, not the messenger,” he said.

Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte said she sees “no problem” with AI-produced videos supporting her, as long as they are not monetized.

“There’s probably no problem with sharing AI videos in support of me, as long as they’re not being used for commercial purposes,” the Vice President said in a press conference here.

“If I create AI content to support a certain personality, there’s no issue with that because I’m not turning it into a business. I’m not selling it to people,” she said.

Cocoy Laurel dies at 72

By Angelica Villanueva

SEASONED film and theater actor

Aileen Mendiola-Rau said eight Filipinos were brought to hospitals near Tel Aviv following Iran’s retaliatory missile strike Sunday.

Two remained hospitalized, including one who was critically injured.

“We have one particular case that is critical. We are monitoring this closely.

We will see if he can get through today.

There’s a chance he may need surgery,” the ambassador said in an interview with TeleRadyo.

A missile also earlier destroyed the home of a Filipina – who was then taking cover in a bomb shelter -- west of Tel Aviv over the weekend.

Meanwhile, the 18 OFWs who arrived in Manila yesterday received immediate financial support and will be assisted for upskilling and sustainable reintegration, including livelihood assistance or skills training enhancement

for redeployment options.

Castro said as part of the government’s response, a 24/7 Middle East Help Desk has been established by OWWA to provide faster and more accessible assistance to overseas workers in need.

For his part, Senate President Francis Escudero urged the government to “go the extra mile in locating and reaching out to Filipinos in Israel and Iran to determine who wants to get out of the two countries now.”

“It doesn’t matter if they are legally staying or undocumented. What is important is that Filipinos who fear for their safety and want to go home are assisted without delay,” Escudero said.

Speaker Martin Romualdez also called for restraint and renewed diplomacy amid rising hostilities.

“We expect our frontline agencies to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring the safety and security of our kababayans, including possible repatriation plans should the situation worsen,” Romualdez said.

Iran launched missiles at Israeli cities Monday after Israeli strikes deep inside the Islamic republic, raising Israel’s death toll by 11 on day four of an escalating air war.

After decades of enmity and a prolonged shadow war, Israel on Friday launched a surprise aerial campaign targeting sites across Iran, saying the attacks aimed to prevent its arch-foe from acquiring atomic weapons -- a charge Tehran denies.

Israel’s strikes have so far killed at least 224 people, including top military commanders, nuclear scientists and civilians, according to Iranian authorities.

In retaliation, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said it had “successfully” struck Israel with a salvo of missiles and warned of “effective, targeted and more devastating operations” to come.

The Iranian attacks hit Tel Aviv, Bnei Brak, Petah Tikva and Haifa -- with shattered homes, smoldering wreckage and stunned residents picking through debris. With AFP

candidates aligned with his policies.

Victor “Cocoy” Laurel died on Monday, June 16. He was 72. In a Facebook post, his niece and singer Nicole Laurel Asensio confirmed the news of his death. However, the cause of his death was not disclosed. Laurel was the son of the late Vice President Salvador “Doy” Laurel and theater actress and singer Celia Diaz Laurel. He rose to prominence in the 1970s as a romantic lead, appearing in films such as “Lollipops and Roses” and “Impossible Dream” opposite National Artist Nora Aunor. He was also a prominent figure in musical theater, performing with Repertory Philippines in productions such as “Les Misérables,” where he played Jean Valjean. Laurel was part of the original London cast of “Miss Saigon” and later portrayed the role of the Engineer in various international productions, including in Sydney, Australia. His last public appearance was in April when he attended the wake of the late Nora Aunor. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

we issued a caution to the provincial directors,” Torre said told reporters after the flag-raising ceremony at the Quezon City Hall.

The relieved police chiefs are those from Navotas, Caloocan, Valenzuela, Mandaluyong, Marikina, San Juan, Parañaque, and Makati, according to PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo.

“I want the entire NCR to comply with that. If a chief of police can’t do it in their station—they will be removed,” Torre said.

Torre indicated that additional dismissals could follow, potentially including provincial directors in Central Visayas. He gave assurance that replacements for the relieved officers have been picked.

The Five-Minute Response Time rule aims to shift from traditional precinct-based police service to a more mobile, proactive, and community-oriented approach, enhancing police visibility and public service.

“There is really a need to focus and delineate strategies that would be implemented for the urban and rural areas. Commanders on the ground should know what’s happening,” Torre said after his first command conference with the regional police chiefs of Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and Negros Island Region on Saturday, June 14.

step away from party leadership duties to focus on legislative matters in the upcoming 20th Congress.

Baste Duterte, who serves as the party’s executive vice president, automatically succeeds Padilla based on PDP Laban’s rule of succession.

He is expected to remain as Davao City’s top executive despite his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, who was elected mayor, being currently detained in The Hague.

“Sen. Padilla said that he has given his all in campaigning for the party’s

candidates in the recently concluded May 2025 polls, and it is now time for him to focus on his duties as a legislator and push for the party’s legislative agenda in the forthcoming 20th Congress,” the party said.

Padilla, nonetheless, assured party members that he remains committed to PDP Laban and loyal to the party’s founding figure and chairman, former President Duterte.

PDP Laban has played a major role in Philippine politics in the past decade, having propelled Rodrigo Duterte to the presidency in 2016.

The party enjoyed widespread influence during Duterte’s administration and backed many local and national

Duterte referred to Senator Risa Hontiveros whom she claimed has manifested “bias” against her and her family through public statements.

Following the 2022 elections, internal divisions within PDP Laban led to a leadership dispute between factions loyal to different key figures. Padilla’s assumption of the presidency had been seen as a move to unify the party under a shared legislative agenda.

Sebastian Duterte’s rise within PDP Laban reflects the continued prominence of the Duterte political clan, particularly in Mindanao.

Despite legal and political challenges facing the elder Duterte, his influence remains significant within the party and among its core supporters. Rolando Ng III

the impeachment trial, saying such demands come from biased groups.

Mr. Marcos emphasized the need to sustain what he described as the party’s unique brand of governance, especially as the country transitions into a new phase following the conclusion of the election season.

“We move forward with renewed vigor and strength towards realizing Bagong Pilipinas, where every individual is empowered with greater opportunities,” he said, referring to his administration’s overarching development agenda.

President Marcos urged PFP members to uphold unity and remain vigilant against forces seeking to undermine the stability and progress already achieved under his leadership.

“To all my PFP partymates, past and newly elected leaders, let us remain united and steadfast… I call on you: remain faithful to the principles of our party, renew your dedication to serve better, and always fight for what is right and just,” he said.

The President’s message comes as the PFP positions itself as a dominant political force heading into the second half of Marcos’s term, with party officials expected to play key roles in implementing flagship programs under the Bagong Pilipinas vision.

“Let us commit ourselves to a higher level of excellent leadership and be the visionaries, the trailblazers, and change makers that our society calls for and deserves,” he said.

cause I’’ call on the anti-Duterte senator-judges to inhibit also,” she said in a mixed English-Filipino during a press conference at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City’s SM Lanang.

“We cannot just inhibit people because there will be none left; they will run out if we do that, for us to inhibit based on biased opinion because there are only two groups there, pro or anti,” she pointed out.

The Vice President asserted that the impeachment was “politically motivated,” claiming that all senators were biased.

“We might as well ask to inhibit senators who are against me, such as Senator Risa Hontiveros who, in a public speech, sought to erase the Duterte name,” the Vice President said.

“The pros, they will defend us. The antis, their only goal is to destroy the Duterte family, so let’s not inhibit,” she added.

“Let’s just give them the benefit of the doubt. Let’s let them do their job,” she said.

Senate President Francis Escudero on Monday rejected calls for certain senator-judges to inhibit themselves from

“Any call or request from anyone who is biased, whether for or against the impeachment, whether for or against Vice President Sara, will not be heeded or entertained because they are clearly biased,” Escudero said.

“If there are calls for inhibition from those who support Vice President Sara and oppose impeachment, it is likely there will also be calls for inhibition from those who are against Vice President Sara and support the impeachment,” he added.

Escudero said groups like ACT Teachers, which signed the impeachment complaint, are clearly in favor of the proceedings against Duterte.

He noted that inhibition in impeachment trials is purely voluntary and left to the discretion of each senator-judge.

Escudero adverted to the 2012 impeachment trial of Chief Justice Renato Corona, where a request for Senator Franklin Drilon’s inhibition was neither voted on nor considered by the court.

“With so many who are experts or claiming to be experts on the law these days, in the end, only one will truly prevail, the Supreme Court. If the Supreme Court has not yet spoken, anyone is free to think for themselves about what is right or wrong, but once the Supreme Court decides, that is what we all must follow,” he said.

Cocoy Laurel

NBI

rescues

10, arrests 2 in Tarlac anti-trafficking ops

By Pot Chavez

THE National Bureau of Investigation

(NBI) announced Monday the rescue of 10 minor victims and the arrest of two Filipino women in Concepcion, Tarlac, for suspected child exploitation.

At a press briefing, NBI Director Jaime Santiago said the operation was connected to the earlier arrest of Swedish national Heinz Henry Andreas Berglund, an alleged child sex offender apprehended in April.

“Berglund’s contacts turned out to be the children’s parents and aunt. On June 10, we conducted an operation where we rescued 10 children—seven boys and three girls—aged from 3 months to 16 years,” Santiago said in Filipino.

He emphasized the critical role of foreign law enforcement cooperation in addressing global child exploitation.

According to Santiago, services were being directly offered to clients abroad via the dark web.

The operation led to the arrest of two adult women on charges of child abuse, trafficking, and possession of prohibited materials.

Santiago credited the joint enforcement team, which included the NBI’s Violence Against Women and Children Division (VAWCD), DOJ–Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (DOJIACAT), and NGO Destiny Rescue Philippines.

VAWCD chief Yehlen Agus said Berglund had deliberately traveled to the Philippines to exploit children, with the two suspects serving as his local contacts.

“We arrested them based on a warrant issued by the Swedish government and an Interpol Red Notice,” she said, noting that follow-up operations led authorities to the children’s locations.

Congressmen, governor join Lakas party

By Maricel V. Cruz

TWO more congressmen have joined the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD), the country’s largest political party, increasing its House of Representatives membership to 110.

Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Lakas-CMD president, administered the oath of office to Representatives Jhong Ceniza of Davao de Oro’s 2nd District and Gerald Galang of Valenzuela’s 2nd District.

Also taking the oath before Romualdez was Davao de Oro Governor Raul Mabanglo, bringing the number of incumbent provincial governors affiliated with LakasCMD to 16.

Before joining the party, Ceniza and Mabanglo, along with Davao del Norte 1st District Representative Oyo Uy, Cagayan de Oro 3rd District Representative Jojo Lara, and Laak, Davao de Oro Mayor Mark Anthony Libuangan, also took their oath of office, administered by Romualdez.

Romualdez welcomed the new members, saying their affiliation signaled support for the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

PBBM says ‘performance review’ now ongoing

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday clarified that his earlier call for a “bold reset” in government operations is now being implemented through a “continuing performance review,” warning that a business-asusual mindset has no place in his administration.

“I really don’t like ‘business as usual’ because that’s exactly why we have so many problems,” President Marcos said during an interview.

“We’ve been doing ‘business as usual’ for decades. And where did that take us?” he added.

The president said the entire government is effectively on “probation,” as he pushes for greater accountability and measurable

BUSTED. National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Judge Jaime Santiago presents two individuals suspected of child exploitation during a press conference in Pasay City on Monday. The suspects were arrested in Concepcion, Tarlac. Norman Cruz

results—not only in large-scale infrastructure and agriculture projects, but also in smaller public services.

“This applies not only to big legacy projects—transportation, agriculture—but also to the little things,” he noted. “If you’re walking and there’s no trash bin, that should be addressed. If the stairs are slippery or the escalator doesn’t work, that’s a

risk to public safety.”

Citing delays at San Juanico Bridge, Mr. Marcos emphasized the need for constant follow-through in public service. “These are things you have to check every single day. You can’t say, ‘It’s been fixed,’ and leave it. You have to go back and make sure.”

Asked if this amounted to a warning to government officials, Mr. Marcos likened the approach to military discipline. “In the military, when you’re told to do something and you don’t do it—out. Relieved. Next,” he said.

“We have to be very, very strict.

Even if we’re friends, even if I love you—if you’re not doing the job, that’s not what matters. What matters is the service to the people.”

MMDA bares upgraded NCAP website

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has launched “May Huli Ka 2.0,” a new and improved website that allows vehicle owners and drivers to securely check for traffic violations under the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP).

Accessible

can view their records,” MMDA Chairman Don Artes said during the launch held at the agency’s

Communications and Command Center in Pasig City. The previous version of the site only required a plate number, raising data privacy concerns. The revamped version now includes detailed violation information, steps for resolution, payment options, and how to file appeals. Artes said the MMDA plans to add new features to further enhance user experience. These include: Access to photo and video evidence of violations, including time, date, and location. Real-time SMS and email alerts for new violations. A multi-vehicle dashboard for users managing fleets. Online contesting and scheduling of hearings.

IN BRIEF

DHSUD consults NGOs on peoplecentered housing

THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) recently met with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to strengthen public participation in the expanded Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PHX) housing program.

Housing Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling led the dialogue with urban development advocates including Nathaniel von Einsiedel, Mary Racelis, and representatives from Joly Homes Foundation and the Federation for the Development of the Urban Poor. Aliling said President Marcos directed DHSUD to make housing efforts more inclusive and people-centered, particularly for low-income and marginalized groups. He added that the 4PHX now includes new modalities like rental housing, horizontal developments, and proposed incremental housing models. Rio N. Araja QC to launch LGBTIQ+ business summit soon

QUEZON City is set to host its first LGBTIQ+ Business Summit on June 18, highlighting inclusive economic development and opportunities for queer entrepreneurs. Mayor Joy Belmonte said the city remains committed to equality and empowerment beyond Pride Month.

Themed “Building an Inclusive Future: Quezon City as an LGBTIQ+ Business-Friendly City,” the summit is organized with the Philippine LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Mindanao Pride, Intersex Philippines, and SPARK! Philippines. It is supported by the Wellspring Philanthropic Fund and Humanis Foundation through the Free to Be Me program. Rio N. Araja

Experts stress vaccines in fight against dengue

THE Asia Dengue Voice and Action Group (ADVA) on Monday emphasized the importance of mass vaccination to curb the rising number of dengue cases in the Philippines.

The group made the call during the Asia Dengue Summit 2025, citing a continued upward trend in infections.

According to the Department of Health, over 100,000 dengue cases were recorded in the first half of June.

Dr. Lulu Bravo, a member of the summit’s committee, said vaccine confidence in the Philippines has risen to 85 percent and that educating hesitant individuals remains a key priority.

ADVA also urged closure of the Dengvaxia controversy, noting the availability of new vaccines such as QDENGA and CYD-TDV. The group called on the government to strengthen case surveillance and exercise political will to address the disease effectively. Rolando Ng III

PALAWAN BEAUTIES. Eighteen candidates of Mutya ng Palawan 2025 pose with The Dome Hotel Palawan President and Noveleta, Cavite Mayor Dino Chua (center) during the prepageant presentation held

‘MAY HULI KA.’ Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Atty. Don Artes officially launches the agency’s ‘May Huli Ka’ system for the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) on Monday,+, at the MMDA Head Office in Pasig City. The system allows motorists to check online for any traffic violations. Manny Palmero

Ex-Energy chief takes over DENR reins

SECRETARY Raphael Lotilla formally assumed leadership of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) during a turnover ceremony with resigned Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga held Monday, June 16, 2025 at the DENR Central Office on Visayas Avenue, Quezon City.

“Lotilla brings with him a wealth of experience as a

servant,

scholar, and energy policy expert,” the DENR

in a news

the

IN BRIEF

MGB sponsors mining conference in Cagayan

TUGUEGARAO City, Cagayan —

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) in Region 2 hosted the 2025 stakeholder’s forum, deemed a pivotal gathering of industry leaders, government officials, and civil society representatives, held at Café Jardin in Santiago City on June 12, 2025.

The meeting had for its theme “Advancing Responsible Mining for a Resilient Mining Industry through the Safety, Skill, and Sustainability.”

MGB regional director Mario Ancheta said the forum’s primary objective is to keep stakeholders informed about potential new regulations governing mining operations in the Cagayan Valley while also promoting responsible mining practices showcasing the industry’s potentials for sustainability.

This event provided a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, policy deliberation, and partnership building, ultimately contributing to a more robust and future-proof mining sector. Ancheta said. Jessica M. Bacud

BOC seizes P7.9-m smuggled marijuana

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has foiled an attempt to smuggle over P7.9 million worth of high-grade marijuana or kush into the country through the Ninoy Aquino international Airport (NAIA).

The shipment, consisting of 10 parcels consigned to different recipients, was flagged during inspection operations at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC) in Pasay City.

“Examination revealed a total of 5.703 kilograms of kush concealed within the shipments,” BOC-NAIA district collector Yasmin Mapa said.

The parcels were turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency for further investigation and filing of criminal cases. Vito Barcelo

2 Pinoy cadets graduate at Indian military school

TWO Filipino officer cadets have successfully graduated from their pre-commissioning training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, according to Philippine defense attaché to India, Col. Rolando Gomez.

The cadets, 2Lt. Anthony Ehapon and 2Lt. John Kent Valbarez, represented the second generation of Philippine Army officers to be trained at the IMA.

Gomez said that the first batch of Filipino cadets underwent training at the academy in 1974, though the program did not continue afterward.

During a ceremonial event, IMA commandant Lt. Gen. Nagendra Singh officially pinned the rank insignia on the two Filipino officers, marking their successful completion of the rigorous military training.

Rex Espiritu

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Ferdinand Marcos Jr. President Marcos accepted the courtesy resignation of Loyzaga and appointed Lotilla as her successor as part of a mas-

sive Cabinet overhaul. Lotilla’s public service track record also included key leadership roles at the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM).

He is also an academician, having worked as professor at the University of the Philippines College of Law since 1985 and served as Vice President for Public Affairs of the same state-run school from 1991 to 1996.

He is widely recognized for his contributions to global discussions on clean energy, environmental governance, and sustainable marine and

coastal development. “I want to assure you that I would be open and I will work hard with you in order to achieve the goals of this Department and of the goals that are clearly enunciated in our Constitution and in the laws that we have governing the environment and natural resources,” Lotilla told DENR employees during the turnover ceremony. The DENR said it expects Lotilla’s professional background in the fields of law, public policy and sustainable development to strengthen its ongoing efforts in environmental protection, climate resilience, and resource conservation. The department, meanwhile, thanked

Loyzaga for her leadership since 2022. She was credited for steering sciencebased policy reforms and advancing climate resilience programs that benefited vulnerable communities across the country. “I am both humbled and honored to be respectfully turning over not only a green, but a blue DENR—one that has worked hard to break down silos and work together to provide clean air and water, minerals for

and infrastructure, and lands for development whilst conserving,

enhancing our forests and waters, and their

versity as the web of life that sustains us all,” Loyzaga said in her speech.

Binay signs order giving extra P1k to Makati seniors

By Joel E. Zurbano

MAKATI Mayor Abigail Binay has signed an ordinance granting additional

₱1,000 in cash incentives to registered senior citizens starting in July this year.

City Ordinance No. 2025-104 adjusts the cash gift for active Blu Card Program members and senior citizens to be ₱4,000 for ages 60-69, ₱5,000 for ages 70-79, ₱6,000 for ages 80-89, ₱11,000 for ages 90-99, and ₱12,000 for ages 101 and above. Those celebrating their 100th birthday will receive ₱100,000 and a plaque from the city government. The ordinance amended City Ordi-

nance No. 2016-A-043 passed shortly after Mayor Binay assumed office, increasing by P1,000 the amount of incentives per age bracket.

“We are happy to inform our beloved senior Makatizens that they will be receiving a bigger midyear cash gift this July, and again in December for their yearend cash gift. We hope they could use the money for essential needs, especially with the rising cost of goods,” Binay said.

To receive the incentives intended for the 90 to over 100 years old, the senior citizens should have been a Blu Card holder for at least five years, as certified by the Makati Social Welfare Depart-

ment (MSWD). Otherwise, he or she shall only be entitled to ₱6,000, same as those ages 80 to 89. To be eligible for the cash incentive, senior citizens must be Makati residents and voters for at least two years, and hold a valid Blu Card or a Makatizen Card. Transferees, including former EMBO residents who now reside in Makati, must wait for two years after re-establishing residency to qualify for the incentive. The ordinance also contains new sections providing guidelines on granting the incentive to newly qualified senior citizens and to those who pass away in a given year.

2 LTO Region II officials sacked over hotel brawl

By Rio N. Araja

TWO officials of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Region 2 have been relieved from their posts for physically attacking two individuals, including a minor, in a hotel in Tuguegarao City. In a media briefing at the LTO headquarters in Quezon City, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said he has written the Office of the President and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin to seek the permanent removal of the assistant regional director of Region II.

“We have seen what actually hap-

pened. There was a banquet. For whatever reason, this assistant regional director physically kicked our two fellowmen right there and then and apparently (one is) even a minor,” Dizon said.

He identified the two officials as assistant regional director Manuel Baricaua and chief enforcer as Charles Ursulum.

Dizon also instructed LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II to assist the victims in the filing of charges against Baricau and Ursulum.

“I have asked Assistant Secretary Vigor to reach out to the victims, and to

help in any way in the filing of charges, I assume physical assault charges against these people. There’s no excuse here,” he said.

He said a probe is no longer needed since the incident has been captured on video.

Mendoza, however, said Baricaua and Ursulum were given the chance to present their side of the story.

“On the orders of Secretary Vince, we immediately executed a notice to explain. They had already replied last week. So as far as due process is concerned, we gave them the opportunity to explain their side,” Mendoza added.

of

Rules out on poll winners previously sacked by OMB

By Rex Espiritu

Monday said it has issued an advisory addressing the assumption of office by local elective officials who were previously dismissed by the Office of the Ombudsman, but won in the May 2025 national and local elections. Under the advisory, the accessory penalty of perpetual disqualification from holding public office applies only when the Ombudsman’s decision has become final and executory. Dismissal decisions are immediately executory only in so far as they pertain to removal from the current post. The DILG clarified that elected officials whose administrative cases remain under review, such as those with pending motions for reconsideration, appeals, or other legal remedies, are not considered perpetually disqualified from holding public office. This includes cases where officials are in the process of seeking temporary relief from the courts, such as the issuance of a temporary restraining order or writ of preliminary injunction. The advisory cited existing jurisprudence, including Pichay v. Commission on Elections and Muñoz v. House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal, which underscored that accessory penalties may be enforced only upon the finality of the decision. The DILG said it will continue to coordinate with the Commission on Elections, the courts, and other relevant institutions to ensure procedural consistency and adherence to applicable laws and legal doctrines.

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SCHOOL OPENING BLUES. Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval escorts pupils to their classrooms on the first day of school at the Malabon Elementary School. Andrew Rabulan

LAST-MINUTE SHOPPING. Government employees take advantage of bargain prices for student uniforms and school supplies offered by the Department of Trade and Industry’s Balik-Eslwela Caravan held at the Manila City Hall complex. Danny Pata

OPINION

The game plan of the Senate

AS THE Senate is delaying the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, it is apparent it has its game plan.

From what I see, the Senate game plan is to continue to delay the impeachment case of the Vice President so that the impeachment case will cross over to the 20th Congress where the newly elected members of the Senate, composed mostly of antiadministration senators, will then sit as judges.

Recall that among the newly elected senators in the 20th Congress of the Philippines,some are known to be oppositionists, and pro-Duterte senators will also sit, like reelectionist Senator Christopher “Bong” Go and Ronald ”Bato” dela Rosa.

Included among the oppositionists are Senator Bam Aquino and Senator Kiko Pangilinan.

There is also the lone senator candidate of the Iglesia ni Cristo, Rodante Marcoleta.

Among the so-called administration senators you have Senator Imee Marcos who is known to be pro-Duterte and also Senator-elect Camille Villar, reportedly very close to Sara Duterte. It is apparent to me, Santa Banana, the ones that will sit down as judges of the impeachment case of the VP will be composed mostly of anti-administration senators.

I am not saying the ones that will sit as judges will readily dismiss the case, since as I often said, judgment in any impeachment case is both legal and political.

I don’t know how far the lawyers and prosecutors of the House of Representatives will go to prove the Vice President betrayed public trust and committed culpable violation of the Constitution in connection with the disbursement and alleged misuse, Santa Banana, of her Confidential Funds, amounting to 250 million pesos.

As far as I know, Sara Duterte will have to explain why most of the recipients of her Confidential Funds are fictitious, without birth certificates, marriage certificates, or even death certificates, as per the records of the Philippine Statistics Authority.

I am not saying the Vice President’s impeachment case will be dismissed finally, my gulay.

It would appear all the delays and

runaround by the Senate so far as the impeachment case is concerned will lead to the dismissal of the impeachment case.

All I am saying is from what I see, the Senate has a game plan.

The House of Representatives’ prosecutors must prove that Sara Duterte as VP and former Secretary of Education committed graft and corruption amounting to plunder, which amounts to betrayal of public trust and culpable violation of the Constitution.

It is apparent to me, the ones that will sit down as judges will be composed mostly of anti-administration senators

The Senate has a game plan and the impeachment case, with the senators sitting as judges, will be tackled in the 20th Congress. .

All in all I am not predicting nor am I sure the impeachment case of Sara Duterte will be dismissed.

At this moment the House prosecutors must prove beyond reasonable doubt the VP betrayed public trust and committed culpable violation of the Constitution.

The Senate must be reminded that when the House of Representatives submits to the Senate the Articles of Impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, it is their Constitutional duty to convene as senator judges to try all the Articles of Impeachment, as much as it is also the Constitutional duty of the House of Representatives to formulate the Articles of Impeachment against anyone in public office.

At this point, I do not think there is no more question the Senate must sit down as senator judges and proceed immediately against the impeachment of the Vice President.

Whether or not the impeachment will continue beyond the 19th Congress to the 20th Congress is the question.

In any case, I cannot speculate on the outcome of the impeachment case of the Vice President. It is just a matter of speculation.

Romualdez: A quiet leader for a noisy nation

IN A Philippines addicted to political theater, Ferdinand Martin Romualdez stands apart for what he avoids: the spotlight.

While rivals chase TikTok fame or jet abroad for photo ops, the House Speaker passes bills, monitors funds, and feeds the hungry.

His low-key resolve—evident in his denial of 2028 presidential ambitions—may be his boldest act.

As the nation faces post-pandemic recovery and geopolitical strain, Romualdez’s competence, legislative record, and courage make him the steady leader Filipinos need.

Romualdez’s focus on governance over glamor sets him apart.

His spokesperson, Princess Abante, notes he’s “filing bills, monitoring public funds, and bringing service” while others campaign early.

Consider Republic Act 10754, which he authored to expand disability benefits—a quiet win that changes lives.

Contrast this with Vice President Sara Duterte’s flair for headlines, often overshadowing questions about

her ₱612.5 million in confidential funds.

Romualdez’s oversight of those funds, culminating in a 215-vote impeachment push against Duterte, wasn’t populist pandering; it was a stand for accountability.

Critics call it politicking; supporters see principle. Either way, it’s leadership.

Sara’s 2023 claim that Romualdez fears her candidacy reveals her insecurity, not his ambition

Controversies dog him, but they reveal strength.

The “tambaloslos” jab from Duterte, implying inefficiency, backfires when you consider its context: Romualdez was aiding the poor.

As Abante asks, “Is helping the hungry something to be ashamed of?”

EDITORIAL

Eyes on the G7 summit

THE eyes of the world are focused this week on the three-day G7 summit in the Canadian Rockies, where leaders of the informal group of democracies coordinate approaches to erratic global economic stability.

They are also scheduled to tackle, under intense discussions, threats to international peace and security – the likes of the protracted Ukraine-Russia war and the ongoing shocking Israeli campaign against Iran – and other transnational issues.

The question rises: Are developing countries, like the Philippines, affected or influenced by the meeting in Kananaskis?

The answer is yes. Low and middle-income nations are significantly impacted by the G7 summit, often indirectly, through discussions and decisions on global issues like climate change, lamentable trade, and development assistance.

Global economy observers say while the G7, founded in 50 years ago in 1975 when France hosted the first meeting, aims to address these issues, its focus and actions can have both positive and negative consequences for developing nations.

This is where developing countries will have their ears attentive as well, with leaders, beyond the table rhetoric

The impeachment saga, while divisive, underscores his coalitionbuilding prowess—70 percent of the House rallied behind him. This ability to unite a fractious chamber is vital for a polarized nation.

His dynastic ties, as cousin to President Marcos Jr., draw scrutiny.

Critics decry another political clan; yet, in a volatile world—South China Sea tensions, 6.2 percent GDP growth at stake—his Marcos connection offers stability.

His Harvard and Cornell degrees, plus banking experience, equip him to manage fiscal challenges better than charisma-driven rivals.

The Marcos administration’s economic gains owe much to his legislative backing, proving he’s more than a name.

The Duterte feud is less a threat than an opportunity.

Sara’s 2023 claim that Romualdez fears her candidacy reveals her inse-

on finding a common ground on the escalating conflict on Iran and Israel, not the least the long-drawn-out Ukraine war which has killed thousands on both sides and made millions refugees, gearing up for discussions on climate change, trade, development assistance and debt relief among others.

Are developing countries, like the Philippines, affected or influenced by the meeting in Kananaskis?

The G7’s commitments to climate action, including reducing emissions and providing climate finance, can have a significant impact on developing countries, particularly those most vulnerable to climate change impacts. But the scale and speed of these

curity, not his ambition. Her family’s divisive populism has fractured the Philippines; Romualdez’s unifying style—evident in those 215 impeachment votes—is the antidote.

Where Dutertes thrive on conflict, he builds bridges, a skill essential for 2028’s challenges: economic recovery, geopolitical navigation, and healing a divided electorate. His weaknesses are real but manageable.

Lacking executive experience as a governor or mayor is a gap, but his banking and House leadership roles show he can handle complex systems.

His reserved media presence—eschewing “cute” TikToks—may struggle in a personality-driven campaign, yet it signals authenticity in an era of spin.

Voters tired of performative politics may reward this sincerity.

commitments as well as the delivery of promised financial support, are crucial for developing countries to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change. Some observers say G7 decisions on trade policies can affect developing countries’ access to markets, particularly for agricultural products and manufactured goods.

While the G7 may advocate for free trade, it’s important these policies are inclusive and benefit developing economies, ensuring fair competition and market access.

There are also development assistance and debt relief, close to the heartbeats of developing nations.

The G7’s commitment to development assistance and aid is vital for many developing countries. But changes in priorities or reductions in funding for aid programs can negatively impact these nations, particularly those heavily reliant on external support for essential services like healthcare and education.

At the same time, the G7’s discussions on debt sustainability and potential debt relief initiatives can be crucial for developing countries struggling with unsustainable debt burdens. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives depends on the specific terms and conditions of any debt relief provided. We have our eyes and ears too on the Kananaskis summit.

Romualdez’s record aligns with the Philippines’ needs. Post-pandemic recovery demands fiscal rigor; his scrutiny of ₱612.5 million in funds proves he delivers it.

Geopolitical risks require steady coalition-building; his House leadership shows he can. Polarization craves a unifier; his track record suggests he is one.

No leader is flawless—his dynastic ties and media reticence pose challenges—but his flaws are those of a doer, not a dreamer.

In 2028, Filipinos face a choice: more drama or quiet progress. Romualdez isn’t just the best option; he’s the cure for a politics of noise. His results—bills passed, funds scrutinized, aid delivered—outshine rivals’ rhetoric.

Voters should demand a president who works, not one who performs. In a nation hungry for solutions, Romualdez is already serving.

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Create a political cartoon in a horizontal format with the British satirical magazine Puck’s aesthetic. The cartoon is colored with markers. In the middle of the panel is a pile of human skulls. Through-

IN BRIEF

WASHINGTON, DC — US law enforcement officials in Minnesota caught the suspected killer of a Democratic state lawmaker and her husband on Sunday, authorities said, ending a two-day manhunt.

The suspect, 57-year-old Vance Boelter, allegedly disguised himself as a police officer, then shot and killed Democratic state representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark at their home early Saturday. Boelter was captured in Sibley County, a rural area where the murders had occurred about an hour southwest of Minneapolis, police and state officials said.

“After (a) two-day manhunt, two sleepless nights, law enforcement have apprehended Vance Boelter,” Minnesota Governor Tim Walz told a late-night news conference.

Police described the search as the “largest manhunt in (the state’s) history”, with 20 SWAT teams and several agencies working to find him. AFP

Suspected killer of state lawmaker caught Southern Mexico mayor shot dead

OAXACA, Mexico — Four armed men stormed a mayor’s office in southern Mexico, killing her and another member of her staff on Sunday (Monday Manila time), police said, in the country’s latest deadly targeting of a local politician.

The men arrived on motorcycles at the town hall in San Mateo Pinas, in the state of Oaxaca, police said.

After threatening officers guarding the facility, they stormed into Mayor Lilia Garcia’s office and proceeded to shoot her and another official, Eli Garcia, dead.

Two municipal police officers were also wounded in the attack, authorities said.

“There can be no impunity for this act,” Oaxaca Governor Salomon Jara wrote on social media. The state prosecutor’s office said it was investigating the attack, while military and federal agents were deployed in the area.

Dozens of local officials in Mexico have been targeted by organized crime groups in recent years, especially in areas where powerful drug trafficking gangs operate. AFP

UK names Metreweli

1st woman spy head

LONDON — The UK government has appointed Blaise Metreweli as the firstever woman to head its MI6 spy service as the country faces “threats on an unprecedented scale,” Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Sunday.

The MI6 Secret Intelligence Service achieved global fame through Ian Fleming’s fictional agent James Bond. Metreweli will be the 18th head of the service, Starmer’s Downing Street office said in a statement.

“The historic appointment of Blaise Metreweli comes at a time when the work of our intelligence services has never been more vital,” Starmer said.

“The United Kingdom is facing threats on an unprecedented scale -- be it aggressors who send their spy ships to our waters or hackers whose sophisticated cyber plots seek to disrupt our public services,” he added. The MI6 chief is the only publicly named member of the organisation and reports directly to the foreign minister. AFP

World faces new nuke arms race, researchers warn

STOCKHOLM, Sweden – Most of the world’s nuclear-armed states continued to modernize their arsenals last year, setting the stage for a new nuclear arms race, researchers warned Monday. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute said nuclear powers including the United States and Russia -- which account for around 90 percent of the world’s stockpile -- had spent time last year “upgrading existing weapons and adding newer versions”.

Since the end of the Cold War, old warheads have generally been dismantled quicker than new ones have been deployed, resulting in a decrease in the overall number of warheads.

But SIPRI warned that the trend was likely to be reversed in the coming years.

“What we see now, first of all, is that the number of operational nuclear warheads is beginning to increase,” SIPRI Director Dan Smith told AFP.

This was especially the case with China, which SIPRI said had about 600 nuclear warheads and had added 100 new warheads in 2023 and 2024.

“China is increasing its nuclear force steadily,” Smith said, adding that the country could reach 1,000 warheads in seven or eight years.

While that would still be well short of Russian and US arsenals it would make China “a much bigger player”, said Smith.

He said the world faced new threats “at a particularly dangerous and unstable moment” for geopolitics, adding: “We see the warning signs of a new nuclear arms race coming.” AFP

Trump lands in Canada as G7 confronts Israel-Iran disaster

KANANASKIS, Canada – Group of Seven powers on Sunday (Monday Manila time) began negotiating on whether they can find common ground on an escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, as leaders including US President Donald Trump arrived for a summit in the Canadian Rockies.

The three-day gathering in the mountain town of Kananaskis marks the return to the international diplomatic calendar for Trump, who has stunned allies by defying norms and slapping sweeping tariffs on friend and foe alike.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney had designed an agenda aimed at minimizing disagreements within the

club of wealthy industrial democracies -Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States.

But Israel shocked the world two days before the summit with a surprise, massive military campaign against Iran.

Canada is now sounding out countries about making a joint call on Israel and Iran, diplomats said.

Iran hits Tel Aviv after overnight Tehran hits

JERUSALEM – Iran unleashed a barrage of missile strikes on Israeli cities early Monday, after Israel struck military targets deep inside Iran, with both sides threatening further devastation.

AFP images showed gutted residential buildings in Tel Aviv and fires smoldering outside the coastal city of Haifa, after Israel’s army warned people to take cover from incoming Iranian missiles.

In Jerusalem, an AFP journalist heard loud explosions, while footage showed Israeli air defenses lighting up the night sky.

After decades of enmity and a prolonged shadow war fought through proxies and covert operations, Israel’s surprise assault on Iran last week has touched off the most intense fighting yet and triggered fears of a lengthy conflict that could engulf the Middle East.

Israel says its attacks have hit military and nuclear facilities, and killed many top commanders and atomic scientists -- but a senior US official said Sunday that US President Donald Trump told Israel to back down from a plan to kill supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Trump has urged the foes to “make a deal”, but told reporters Sunday that “sometimes they have to fight it out” first.

Monday’s Iranian missile attack followed Israeli strikes in central Iran, which Israel’s army said targeted surface-to-surface missile sites.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, in a statement quoted by the official IRNA news agency, said Monday they had “successfully” struck Israel and vowed “effective, targeted and more devastating operations” to come. AFP

The statement could call for de-escalation or could simply back Israel, saying that it has a “right to defend itself” due to Iran’s contested nuclear work.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen told reporters that she spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before the summit and agreed that Iran was to blame.

“Of course I think a negotiated solution is, in the long term, the best solution,” she said, stopping short of calling for an immediate ceasefire.

Trump has praised Israel’s strikes, noting it used US weapons, even though Netanyahu defied his public calls to hold off as the United States sought a negotiated solution. Unusually, Japan, which historically

has maintained cordial ties with Iran, made a forceful break with allies in the United States and Europe when it denounced Israel’s strikes as “deeply regrettable.” European powers have all steered clear of criticizing Israel on the Iran strikes, despite separate concern about the humanitarian situation in besieged Gaza.

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for restraint and urged Iran to re-enter talks with the United States, while also blaming Tehran for escalating tensions over its nuclear program.

Trump is visiting Canada despite his mockery of the United States’ northern neighbor, which he has said would be better off as the 51st state. AFP

Trump orders deportation drive targeting Democratic-led cities

“We

paigning against an alleged “invasion” by criminals.

Raids by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency in Los Angeles sparked unruly protests, prompting Trump last week to deploy 4,000 National Guards and 700 Marines, against the wishes of local and state authorities. California has sued to regain control of the National Guardsmen from Trump, arguing he overstepped his authority. That suit is working its way through federal court.

In a long screed on Truth Social Sunday, the Republican president charged that “every day, the Brave Men and Women of ICE are subjected to violence, harassment, and even threats from Radical Democrat Politicians.” But, he insisted, “nothing will stop us from executing our mission... ICE Officers are herewith ordered ... to do all in their power to achieve the very important goal of delivering the single largest Mass Deportation Program in History.” AFP

CONFRONTING CRISES.

Spaun buys meds for daughter in morning, wins US Open later

in morning, wins US Open later

OAKMONT—J.J.

Spaun achieved his dream of winning his first major golf title by cap turing the US Open. Doing it with a 65-foot birdie putt on the last hole was pure magic.

Spaun birdied four of the last sev en holes to win at Oakmont on Sun day, firing a two-over 72 to defeat Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre by two strokes, clinching matters with his stunning putt at the 72nd hole.

“Just to finish it off like that is just a dream,” Spaun said. “You watch other people do it... you see crazy moments. To have my own moment like that at this championship, I’ll never forget this moment for the rest of my life.

Spaun drove the par-four 17th green to set up the tap-in birdie that put him ahead to stay, joining a list of birdiebirdie finishers to win the US Open that includes Jack Nicklaus, Ben Ho gan, Tom Watson and Jon Rahm.

“It’s definitely like a storybook, fairytale ending, kind of underdog fighting back, not giving up, never quitting,” Spaun said. “With the rain and everything and then the putt, you couldn’t write a better story. I’m just so fortunate to be on the receiving end of that.”

Spaun, whose only prior PGA Tour win was the 2022 Texas Open, was a runner-up at the Cognizant Classic and Players Championship this year, losing a playoff to second-ranked Rory McIlroy at the latter.

“I just felt like you keep putting yourself in these positions, like eventually you’re going to tick one off,” Spaun said. Spaun made bogeys on five of the first six holes, including the first three, and birdied four of the last seven.

“As bad as things were going, I just still tried to just commit to every shot,” Spaun said. “I tried to just continue to dig deep. I’ve been doing it my whole life.”

Spaun has been resilient. In 2018 he

was diagnosed with one type of diabetes but treatment was ineffective. In 2021, Spaun found he had been misdiagnosed and had another type of diabetes.

On Sunday morning, he made an early trip for medicine.

“My daughter had a stomach bug and was vomiting all night long,” Spaun said. “Kind of a rough start to the morning. I’m not blaming that on my start, but it kind of fit the mold of what was going on, the chaos.”

TRECE MARTIRES, Cavite –La Salle Team I flexed its muscle and served early notice of its title aspirations in the inaugural ICTSI Intercollegiate Tour, topping both the men’s and women’s individual and team competitions in the tournament’s launch at Sherwood Hills Golf Club in Cavite here on Monday. Seasoned amateur Perry Bucay led the way in the men’s individual play with a one-overpar 73, edging College of Saint Benilde’s Sean Granada by one after the latter stumbled with three straight bogeys from No. 14 to close with a 74. Ranz Balay-odao of the University of the Cordilleras tied for third with University of the Philippines’ Joshua Buenventura with 76s.

In the women’s side, La Salle’s Julia Lua showcased her poise and shotmaking with an

A 96-minute storm delay was crucial, allowing Spaun to reset after his miserable start.

“I just needed to reset everything, kind of like start the whole routine over,” Spaun said. “I felt like I had a really good chance to win the US Open at the start of the day. It just unravelled very fast.

“But that break was actually the key for me to winning this tournament.”

That and his monster 65-foot birdie putt at the final hole.

“I was just in shock, disbelief that it

went in and it was over,” Spaun said.

“I couldn’t even believe what I witnessed when that went in.”

Neither could his playing partner, Norway’s 14th-ranked Viktor Hovland, who settled for his best US Open finish at third on 282.

“That was unbelievable,” Hovland said. “After his start, it just looked like he was out of it immediately. Everyone came back to the pack.

“And then the one on 18, it’s just absolutely filthy there.” AFP

Hamilton ‘devastated’ after hitting groundhog in Canadian Grand Prix

MONTREAL—Lewis Hamilton said he felt devastated after learning that he had hit and killed a groundhog, damaging his Ferrari car, on his way to finishing sixth in the Canadian Grand Prix.

Hamilton, who owns a French bulldog called Roscoe that is often seen with him at Grands Prix, said he did not see the groundhog and felt that the incident reduced the performance of his car after a bright start Sunday.

“It was feeling pretty decent up until then,” said the seven-time world champion. “I got a good start, I held position and I was holding onto the leading group.

87 to top the 18-hole event by six strokes over University of the Philippines’ Katrisse Datoc, who carded a 93. Lua’s teammate Stacey Chan placed third with a 98. The tournament, co-presented by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc, and the Philippine Golf Foundation, served primarily as a test run to iron out technical and logistical aspects ahead of the official kickoff on July 18. The soft launch allowed teams and players to adjust to the competitive format, build chemistry, and address kinks in scoring and operations as the PGTI and the Philippine Golf Foundation aim to establish a long-term collegiate golf circuit.

“This was all about familiarization and fine-tuning,” said tournament director Jack Imperial. “The official stroke play event begins in July, and

“I was managing the tyres well, so I was feeling optimistic.

“I didn’t see it happen, but I heard I hit a groundhog. That’s devastating because I love animals and I’m so sad about it. It’s horrible.

“That’s never happened to me before here, but the floor -- basically the right-side -- there was a hole in it.

“Given that, and we had a brake issue halfway through as well, and then we probably stayed out too long in the first stop and came out behind traffic... it went from one thing to another.”

After going 10 races without a

this was crucial to ensure everything runs smoothly moving forward.”

Rounds 2 to 4 will be staged on July 27 (men), Aug. 3 (women), Aug. 11 (both), and Aug. 17 (men), Aug. 24 (women), with the grand finals set for Sept. 23-25. Venues will be announced soon.

For details and registration, contact PGTI Operations Manager Jhiue Estrada at +63 9283165678 or PGTI assistant tournament administrator Sheila Salvania at +63 9683114101.

Despite the non-bearing nature of the launch event, team standings were still tracked, and La Salle also ruled the men’s team play under the three-toplay, two-to-count format.

Bucay’s 73 and Santino Laurel’s 79 combined for a 152 aggregate, edging UP’s 153 from Joshua Buenaventura (76) and Emilio Carpio (77).

Gonzaga, Naredo win jr netfest

AYL Gonzaga and Julio Naredo delivered dominant performances en route to twin-title victories in their respective divisions, showcasing their versatility and top-tier skills in the Fortheo National Junior Tennis Championships at the Jethro Sports Center in Valenzuela City recently. The top-seeded Gonzaga lost just three games across two events. She overpowered sixth-ranked Natasha Gabriel, 6-0, 6-1, in the 14-and-under finals, then returned with a more hardfought 6-3, 6-3 triumph over the same rival from Silang, Cavite, to clinch the 16-and-U crown in the Group 2 tournament, which spanned two weeks due to the large number of participants. Not to be outdone, third-ranked Naredo swept Ole Paulsen, 6-0, 6-0, in the boys’ 16-and-U final, then crushed No. 2 seed Reden Escultor Jr., 6-3, 6-0, to claim the 18-and-U trophy as the Quezon City native matched Gonzaga’s two-title haul in the tournament backed by Tier One Architects, Threema, Ckap Roofing, Scrambowl, and Altiche Tennis School.

Other winners in the event, a part of the nationwide talent-search under the Palawan Pawnshop program initiated by president/CEO Bobby Castro, included local standout Melatiah Pascua, Bataan’s Isabel Calingasan, Laguna’s Tyronne Caro, Quezon City’s Gabriel Vitaliano, and Makati’s Liam Harrow. The unranked Pascua stunned top seed Angeli Quiñones, 6-1, 6-0, in the semis before repeating the scoreline against May Bautista to capture the girls’ 18-and-U trophy.

In the younger divisions, No. 1 Isabel Calingasan defeated third seed Elise Co, 6-4, 6-2, to bag the girls’ 12-andU title; Caro powered past Vitaliano, 6-2, 6-1, for the boys’ 14-and-U trophy; Vitaliano bounced back with a 7-5, 6-3 win over Caro in the 12-and-U final; and Harrow routed Francis Angeles, 4-1, 4-1, to claim the 10-and-U unisex crown. Gonzaga added a third title, teaming up with Teresinha Calingasan to blank Co and Brenna Paulino, 8-0, in the girls’ 14-and-U doubles final. Jarred dela Peña and Rain Racho clinched the boys’ title with an 8-4 victory over Angelo Alegria and Leonardo Manio III.

podium this season for the first time in his Formula One career, having joined Ferrari, Hamilton was expressing mounting frustration at the team’s disappointing start to the year.

“I’m grateful that I finished, particularly with the brake issue I had. We are really in need of an upgrade, but there are a lot of things that need to change in order for us to compete at the front.”

Team-mate Charles Leclerc finished fifth despite missing much of Friday practice after crashing in the opening session, but said he was frustrated by how his race had unfolded. AFP

Lewis Hamilton

Ayl Gonzaga and Julio Naredo hold their individual and MVP

the third tee during the final round of the

U.S. OPEN at Oakmont Country Club in Oakmont, Pennsylvania. AFP

TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Duplantis rips world mark again, Obiena 7th

By Peter Atencio

AS Swedish double Olympic pole vault champion Armand ‘Mondo’ Duplantis took the spotlight, Filipino pole vaulter EJ Obiena settled for seventh place at the Stockholm Diamond League meet on Sunday evening (Manila time).

Duplantis broke the existing world record again by a centimeter when he cleared 6.28 meters at the Olympic Stadium.

It was the 12th time that Duplantis broke the world record after he cleared 6.27 meters last February

Duplantis finished ahead of Australia’s Kurtis Marschall, who came close to his personal best this year at 5.90 meters.

Meno Vloon of the Netherlands hit the 5.8-meter mark for the bronze medal.

As for Obiena, he jumped a height of 5.70 meters in his second attempt, before missing his bid at 5.80 meters thrice and a chance to get a podium finish.

Meanwhile, Hokett de los Santos cleared 5.10 meters and placed 11th out of 18 entries in the 2025 Busan International Pole Vault Meeting, a World Athletics Continental Tour Challenger.

Delos Santos first soared to heights of 4.80, 5.00 and 5.10 before failing at 5.20 meters. Hokett joins another meet in late September, in time for his buildup for the SEA Games.

PH junior gymnast captures 2 bronze medals in Asian tilt

By Randy M. Caluag

RISING gymnast Elisabeth Antone gave the Philippines a podium finish, bagging two bronze medals at the 18th Junior Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Asian Championships held in Jecheon, South Korea.

Antone earned her first bronze in the Vault event with a score of 12.550 during the Apparatus Finals, and added another in the Individual All-Around competition, where she tallied a total of 48.565 points.

She finished behind Japan’s Minami Tobi (51.166) and Ayu Sarada (50.466) in both categories, securing a place among Asia’s rising gymnastics’ stars. Her medal haul continues the Philippines’ strong momentum in gymnastics, coming on the heels of the Yulo brothers’ impressive campaign at the 2025 Asian Artistic Gymnastics Championships held in South Korea.

Olympic double gold medalist Carlos Yulo returned home with a gold in floor exercise and bronze medals in the individual all-around, vault, and parallel bars—further solidifying his place among the sport’s elite.

Meanwhile, his younger brother Karl Eldrew Yulo made waves of his own, capturing a silver medal in the vault with consistent scores of 13.900 and 13.800, averaging 13.850 to earn a well-deserved spot on the podium.

Elisabeth Antone

Eala seeks payback vs. former tormentor

IT WILL be a challenging fight for Filipina netter Alexandra Eala as she reached the main draw of the WTA 250 Lexus Nottingham Open in the United Kingdom.

The 20-year-old Eala, currently ranked no. 77 in the world, faces world no. 33 Magda Linette for the second time in the first round.

Eala will seek payback from her loss to the 31-year-old Linette last year in Abu Dhabi. That was when Linette, who is from Poland, put away Eala, 7-6 (4), 6-1. Eala reached the main draw after enduring her encounter with powerserving Anca Todoni of Romania, 6-3, 6-7 (4), 6-3, on Sunday. The field includes top seed and world No. 22 Beatriz Haddad Maia of Brazil, world No. 23 second-seed

Clara Tauson of Canada, world No. 27 Yuia Putintseva of Kazahkstan, and 2021 US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez of Canada.

There’s also British No.2 Katie Boulter, who is returning to her home tournament, with hopes of not only defending her title, but with aspirations of claiming her third consecutive Lexus Nottingham Open crown.

Eala, who took 94 minutes to deal with the world No. 87 Todoni, held her ground after the Romanian tied the match for the last time at 2-all in the third set.

Displaying an aggressive game, Eala blanked Todoni in the next three games to move away decisively, 5-2.

ANOTHER Filipino warrior will be seeing action in the Manny Pacquiao-Mario Barrios fight card on July 19 as former world champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo battles Mexican Jorge Mata Cuellar in the undercard at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada. The 10-round fight promoted by the Premier Boxing Champion (PBC) will be for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) continental American super featherweight title.

After the announcement of Tokyo Olympics’ bronze winner Eumir Felix Marcial fighting American Alexis Gaytan as an eight-round nonetitle middleweight bout in the same fight card, Manny Pacquiao (MP) Promotions formally confirmed the inclusion of Magsayo in the boxing event.

“It’s a very great opportunity to fight for the second time as a part of undercard bouts of my childhood

hero Manny Pacquiao, who is the main reason why I started boxing,” Magsayo, 29, said after learning the news from MP Promotions’ president Sean Gibbons.

“Like the first time I fought under his card when I was in the featherweight class, this is also another stepping stone to my second division super featherweight world title bid,” Magsayo added. “I’m grateful for the opportunity from big brother Manny.”

The first time Magsayo fought as an undercard to Pacquiao was when he knocked out Mexican Julio Ceja in the 10th round on August 21, also in Las Vegas. It was Pacquiao’s last fight in the US against Cuban Yordenis Ugas.

After that, he beat Gary Russell Jr. for the WBC featherweight belt last January 22, 2022, in Atlantic City to become a world champion for the first time.

The Filipina went on finish with 51 points off 71 first serves.

Peter Atencio

“I would like to thank Sir Manny Pacquiao, also Sean Gibbons who takes care of my career and made me a world champion, WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman, Alan Haymon of PBC, TGB Promotions’ Tom Brown and Louie Decubas of PBC,” said Magsayo He is coming with a three-fight win streak, including his last against Ecuadorian Bryan Mercado, whom he knocked out in the second round in Long Beach, California last December 14, improving his win-loss record to 27-2 with 18 knockouts.

“I am happy training alongside my idol, seeing him every day still inspires me the way it did when I was a kid. He spends time with us, his boxers and teaches us. I am very excited to fight and hope to see everyone in town for this thrilling Philippines vs. Mexico showdown,” he added.

THE silver medal winning Alas Pilipinas women’s team graces the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum on Tuesday (June 17), fresh from its inspiring campaign in the AVC Women’s Volleyball Nations Cup in Hanoi over the weekend.

Philippine National Volleyball Federation head Ramon ‘Tats’ Suzara will accompany players Jia De Guzman, Angel Canino, and Dell Palomata, along with coach Jorge De Brito at the conference hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex to look back and reflect on the team’s best finish in an AVC tournament in 64 years since the inception of the association in 1961. Alas

Alexandra Eala

Mark Magsayo is shown with Manny Pacquiao prior to training at the Wild Card gym in Los Angeles, California.

Armand ‘Mondo’ Duplantis broke the existing world record again by a centimeter when he cleared 6.28 meters at the Stockholm Diamond League. Duplantis is shown here during his Diamond League stint in China. AFP

4% $2.66 billion

Growth in cash remittances in April 2025

Cash remittances grew 4% to $2.66b in April, says BSP

By Darwin G. Amojelar

Cash remittances in April 2025

CASH remittances from Filipinos working overseas rose 4.0 percent year-on-year in April 2025, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Monday.

via money couriers cannot always be broken down by actual source and are listed under the country where the main office is located, often the US.

$2.56 billion

Data from the central bank showed cash remittances sent through banks reached $2.66 billion in April 2025, up from $2.56 billion in April 2024.

for the largest share of total cash remittances, followed by Singapore and Saudi Arabia.

Personal remittances, which include cash remittances and non-cash items sent outside banking channels, climbed 4.1 percent in April, driven by remittances from both land-based and sea-based Filipinos working overseas.

Cumulative cash remittances in the first four months of 2025 hit $11.11 billion, a 3-percent increase from $10.78 billion recorded a year earlier.

Cash remittances in April 2024

DOTr to add LRT-1 station in Bacoor for P3b

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said on Monday it will spend P3 billion to build an additional station for the LRT-Line 1 Cavite Extension.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said the local government of Bacoor requested the construction of Talaba station, citing the area’s ongoing development.

“So, we requested for roughly about P3 billion from the DBM [Department of Budget and Management] and we informed LRMC [Light Rail Manila Corp.] about this two months ago,” Dizon said at the sidelines of the EJAP Infrastructure Forum.

Dizon said the government would fund the new station’s construction, while Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) would handle its operations.

“I am confident that the Phase 2 of the LRT Cavite Extension will be completed by 2028, with the remaining stations finished by 2030,” he said.

The DOTr inaugurated five stations under the first phase of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension project in November 2024. These include RedemptoristAseana, MIA Road, PITX, Ninoy Aquino Ave. and Dr. Santos (Sucat) stations.

The second phase consists of Las Piñas and Zapote stations, while the third phase will be in Talaba and Niog stations in Bacoor, Cavite.

The LRT-1 Cavite Extension Phase 1 is expected to reduce travel time from Parañaque City to Quezon City by almost an hour, while servicing an additional 80,000 passengers to LRT-1’s daily ridership of 323,000.

Once fully operational, the entire stretch of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project would reduce travel time from Baclaran in Parañaque to Bacoor, Cavite, to 25 minutes.

Darwin G. Amojelar

The BSP attributed the overall rise in remittances during the fourmonth period to higher growth from the United States, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates. By country, the US accounted

The BSP noted limitations in disaggregating remittance data by source country. Remittance centers abroad often route funds through correspondent banks, mostly located in the US.

“Therefore, the US would appear to be the main source of OF (overseas Filipino) remittances because banks attribute the origin of funds to the most immediate source,” the BSP said, explaining that remittances sent

Filipinos abroad sent $2.97 billion in personal remittances in April 2025, up from $2.86 billion in April 2024, the BSP said.

“On a month-on-month seasonally adjusted basis, personal remittances rose by 1.6 percent,” the BSP said.

Cumulative personal remittances from January to April also increased 3.0 percent to $12.37 billion from $12.01 billion a year earlier.

Aboitiz InfraCapital takes over operations of Bohol-Panglao airport

ABOITIZ InfraCapital, the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, took over the operations and management of Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) Monday, the company said. The formal turnover from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) makes BPIA the third airport under Aboitiz InfraCapital’s management. BPIA, known as the Philippines’ “Green Gateway to the World” becomes

the third airport under AIC’s management, joining the MactanCebu International Airport (MCIA) in Cebu and Laguindingan International Airport in Misamis Oriental.

“We are excited to officially begin operations at Bohol-Panglao International Airport and bring our brand of operational excellence, innovation, and passenger-focused service to this important gateway,” Aboitiz InfraCapital president and chief executive Cosette Canilao said in a statement.

Emperador Properties buys Madrid complex to expand presence in Spain

By Jenniffer B. Austria

EMPERADOR Properties, a real estate investment company led by billionaire Andrew Tan, expanded its real estate portfolio in Spain with the full acquisition of Caleido, a major mixed-use development in Madrid.

Located in the Cinco Torres Business District, Caleido is known for its modern design and sustainable urban planning. It features top-grade offices, a hospital, an international school, retail spaces and green parks.

“Caleido was conceived with a clear objective—to create an attractive, accessible, sustainable and comfortable urban environment that allows the revitalization of the

northern area of Madrid through a unique concept,” said Jorge Domeca, chief executive of Emperador Properties.

Emperador initially acquired a 50-percent stake in Caleido in 2021. The company did not disclose the acquisition cost for the property, but real estate sources said the acquisition amounted to about 76 million euros.

The complex spans 138,000 square meters and welcomed more than 5 million visitors last year. It is home to IE University, ranked among the world’s top 10 universities by the QS World University Rankings 2025, and includes 35,000 square meters of parks and green areas.

“This project is about more than infrastructure — it’s about enabling tourism, empowering local economies, and creating more inclusive growth across the Visayas,” she said.

BPIA, the Philippines’ ninthbusiest gateway, is slated for upgrades under a P4.53-billion public-private partnership. Aboitiz InfraCapital plans to expand the passenger terminal building, modernize landside and airside facilities, and install new airport

systems and equipment.

Initial improvements aim to boost BPIA’s capacity from 2 million to 2.5 million passengers per annum (mppa) within the first two years of operations, with future developments projected to increase capacity to 3.9 mppa by 2030.

“This official handover marks the beginning of a new chapter for BoholPanglao International Airport,” said Rafael Aboitiz, Aboitiz InfraCapital vice president and head of the airports business. Darwin G. Amojelar

9 more medicines now exempt from value added tax, says BIR

THE Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has exempted nine more medicines from value-added tax (VAT), it said in a circular dated June 11, 2025. Revenue Memorandum Circular (RMC) No. 59-2025, issued on Wednesday outlines the latest list of VAT-exempt medicines endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the Department of Health (DOH). The newly exempted medicines in-

gliptin (as

+ Dapagliflozin (as

and for hypertension, these include Losartan potassium + Rosuvastatin (as calcium) + Amlodipine (as camsilate). The BIR also included Peritoneal Dialysis Solution with 2.5% Dextrose for kidney disease and Rifampicin + Isoniazid + Pyrazinamide for tuberculosis:

The exemption, which updates previous lists of VAT-exempt products, aligns with Republic Act No. 10963

RICE FOR WORKERS. Around 800 rank-and-file workers from the Manila Harbor Center receive P20-per-kilogram rice during the launch of the ‘P20 Benteng Bigas Meron Na for Minimum Wage Earners’ program, led by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) on June 13, 2025 in Tondo, Manila.

TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2025

Peso, stocks fall as rising ME conflict spook investors

PHILIPPINE stocks opened this week’s trading lower as escalating conflict in the Middle East spooked investors.

The peso depreciated to 56.415 against the US dollar Monday from 56.21 on June 14.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index lost 37.01 points, or 0.58 percent, to close at 6,358.58. The broader all-shares index went down 16.86 points, or 0.44 percent, to settle at 3,768.45.

“Philippine markets started the week in the red following the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, which rattled investors over the weekend,” said Luis Limlingan, head of sales at Regina Capital Development Corp. For the remainder of the week, Limlingan expects investors to continue watching developments over-

seas while waiting for new data that could dictate price action.

Among the expected data are policy meetings from the U.S. Federal Reserve and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

Sectors were mixed, with mining and oil edging higher by 1.58 percent.

Holding firms were at the bottom, declining by 1.19 percent.

Losers outnumbered gainers 110 to 88.

Value turnover reached P5.81 billion.

Foreign investors were net sellers, with outflows reaching 2.74 billion Philippine pesos.

Universal Robina Corp. emerged as the top index gainer, rising 2.3 percent per share. Shares of Alliance Global Group Inc. declined 4.27 percent to P9.20 apiece.

Jenniffer B. Austria

CNPF renews deal with Vita Coco for P14b

By Jenniffer B. Austria

CENTURY Pacific Food Inc. (CNPF) reported Monday it renewed its long-term agreement with American beverage company The Vita Coco Company Inc. in a deal worth approximately P14 billion spanning five years.

The renewed contract will begin in January 2026 and will help support 4,500 manufacturing jobs in General Santos, Mindanao, CNPF said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

The two companies also committed

to continue working together on sustainability, health and safety, environmental performance and ethics.

“We value our long-standing relationship with Vita Coco — a win-win partnership that has grown meaningfully over the past decade.

We are pleased to extend our collaboration and look forward to scaling our collective impact across both our businesses, our consumers and the communities we serve,” said Noel Tempongko Jr., vice president and general manager of CNPF’s OEM coconut business.

In 2024, the companies signed an additional agreement to cover 90 million liters over five years. This led to more investments by CNPF, including the acquisition of Coco Harvest Inc., and the creation of 1,500 jobs in Misamis Occidental, Mindanao.

THE nation’s attention is focused on the drama playing out in the halls of Congress, the latest development of which is the Senate’s sending of orders to the House of Representatives (HOR) for certification on two fronts. The orders seek certification on whether the Articles of Impeachment violate the constitutional prohibition of more than one impeachment in a single year and the 20th Congress HOR’s willingness to present the 19th Congress HOR’s impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. Aside from being focused on what is happening in Congress – the procedural rules, the motions, the deadlines etc. – the people of this country should also be thinking about the long-term implications of the outcome of VicePresident Duterte’s impeachment trial. That outcome will largely determine the prospects of the Philippine economy after June 30, 2028, when President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will step down and a new six-year Presidential term will begin.

Sara Duterte’s conviction or acquittal will have an utmost impact on the profile of 2028 Presidential contest. If she were to be convicted, she would not be part of that contest because permanent disqualification from holding public office is one of the penalties for conviction. That will take her out of the 2028 Presidential-election equation. If the outcome of the impeachment trial is an acquittal, the situation will be totally different.

As the acknowledged heiress to her incarcerated father’s political fortune, the acquitted Sara Duterte is bound to be the standard-bearer of the Duterte camp in the 2028 Presidential election. That would give rise to the possibility

CNPF began its partnership with Vita Coco in 2012. The partnership has since grown, with CNPF becoming one of Vita Coco’s largest suppliers.

“We are pleased to continue our long-term partnership with Century Pacific. Our organizations share a common mission around quality, sustainability and community impact — and together, we look forward to driving innovation, fueling growth and creating lasting positive change,” said Jonathan Burth, chief operating officer of The Vita Coco Company.

Both companies have also worked to support coconut farmers in the Philippines, donating over 1 million coconut seedlings and helping more than 10,000 farmers.

CNPF’s past projects include planting 1 million coconut trees with GCash and HOPE in 2022 and launching a new seedling program through its brand Coco Mama.

Vita Coco has also pledged up to 10 million coconut trees by 2030 through its global program “Seedlings for Sustainability.”

Century Properties boosts dividend payout, to distribute P610m in 2025

CENTURY Properties Group Inc.

(CPG) announced a significant enhancement to its dividend policy Monday, reflecting its robust 2024 financial performance and ongoing commitment to shareholder value.

At a special meeting on June 16, CPG’s board of directors approved an increase in the regular dividend payout for the company’s outstanding common shares from 10 percent to 20 percent of its consolidated net income from the preceding fiscal year. They also declared a 5 percent special cash dividend for 2025.

For 2025, CPG will distribute a total cash dividend of P610.63 million, to be released in two tranches. The regular cash dividend, equivalent to 20 percent of fiscal year 2024 net income or P0.042114 per share, has a record date of July 25, 2025, and payment on Aug. 20, 2025. The special cash dividend, equiva-

A Sara Duterte victory in the 2028 Presidential election is the last thing that the Philippine economy needs. Her conviction after the impeachment trial will take care of the problem.

of her winning the election and becoming the 17th President of the Philippine.

What are Sara Duterte’s chances of winning the 2028 Presidential election?

The Dutertistas remain a potent force in this country’s politics. After all, they managed to pull off a five-out-oftwelve (Christopher Go, Ronaldo de la Rosa, Rodante Marcoleta, Imee Marcos and Camille Villar) victory in the recent Senatorial election. Even if she were acquitted, the all damaging evidence that will be presented in the impeachment trial will cause Vice-President Duterte to become what in merchandising circles is known as damaged merchandise. She would be carrying a lot of heavy baggage into the 2028 election.

But strange things have been known to happen in Philippine politics, and Sara could win the 2028 Presidential election if it were possible for her to be a candidate. Her father ran for President as the relatively unknown mayor of a provincial city and was successful; the Filipino people might just elect an impeached Vice-President. Unpalatable

lent to 5 percent of fiscal year 2024 net income or P0.010529 per share, has a record date of Sept. 26, 2025, and payment on Oct. 22, 2025.

“We are pleased to announce our enhanced dividend policy, reinforcing our commitment to more stable and permanent returns for our shareholders and demonstrating our financial strength and long-term profitability,” said Marco Antonio, president and chief executive of Century Properties Group.

“With the increase in the annual cash dividend payout, we are providing our shareholders with a more predictable income stream. For 2025, we are rewarding them further with a special cash dividend as CPG’s performance in 2024 exceeded expectations.”

CPG posted a 31.7 percent increase in net income, rising to P2.44 billion in 2024, up from P1.86 billion in 2023.

as that may be, one should not completely disregard the possibility of a Duterte candidacy – and victory – in the 2028 Presidential election.

For the Philippine economy, a Duterte candidacy would be highly disruptive; a Duterte victory would be disastrous.

On the professional side, Sara Duterte knows next to nothing about the management of a national economy and very little about good public administration. Her resume’ contains only her Vice-Presidency, her tenure as Secretary of Education and her inherited mayorships of Davao City. That is the sum total of her career as a government official. What Sara Duterte knows about public finance is best indicated in the Articles of Impeachment charge that she misspent P612 million of taxpayers’ money on payments to non-existent individuals.

On the intellect side; Sara Duterte, although a lawyer, has given no indications that she has any kind of understanding of the nation’s – as opposed to Davao City’s – real problems and has thought deeply about solutions to this country’s economic problems.

On the personality side, Sara has exemplified the saying that the fruit does not fall for from the tree. Like her father, she is willful – remember the slapping incident involving a Davao City sheriff? – intellectually lazy and inclined to be autocratic.

A Sara Duterte victory in the 2028 Presidential election is the last thing that the Philippine economy needs. Her conviction after the impeachment trial will take care of the problem. The sensible Senator-judges will know the right thing to do. (llagasjessa@yahoo.com)

KFC WALTERMART ARAYAT. KFC Philippines opens a new branch on the ground floor of Waltermart Arayat, located along Jose Abad Santos Avenue. It is the 23rd KFC store in Pampanga and the 19th Waltermart franchised

outlet nationwide. KFC senior manager, FMD Ces Onciangco; KFC operations manager, North Luzon Upper Sherwin Santos; KFC senior BDD manager Maribelle Cruz; Waltermart vice president for leasing Chris Ting; Waltermart AVP and head of business development Joy Gotauco lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony and other store opening rites.

TERMINAL TRACTORS. Two fully electric terminal tractors at the Manila International Container Terminal, the first deployment of its kind in Philippine ports, will reduce emissions and support sustainable operations. MICT, the flagship terminal of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI).

BUSINESS

HOUSING SUPPORT.

The local government of Pototan, Iloilo turns over a property in Barangay Batuan to the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) through a deed of donation, reinforcing the administration’s push to provide decent and affordable housing under the expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program—the flagship housing initiative of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. The donation of a 21,684-square-meter land was formalized on June 13 during a ceremonial signing held at the SHFC Head Office in Makati City, led by president and chief executive Federico Laxa (left) and Pototan Mayor Rafael Enrique Lazaro (right).

DICT aims to halve PH internet costs

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE

Department

of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) aims to halve broadband internet costs in the Philippines before the end of the Marcos administration.

“Our goal is to reduce internet costs by 30 percent to 50 percent within the next three years,” DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said during the EJAP Infrastructure Forum. Aguda said increased competition, alongside facility sharing and the Konektadong Pinoy Act, will drive down internet costs in the Philippines.

“When President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued a clear and urgent directive to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT): ‘Fix the connectivity problem, once and for all, for every Filipino — especially the underserved’ — the DICT acted with speed and resolve,” Aguda said.

“We went straight to work — because every Filipino, whether in Batanes or TawiTawi, deserves to be connect-

ed,” he said. In his first 90 days as DICT secretary, Aguda oversaw significant strides, including the activation of 18,849 free WiFi sites nationwide (6,183 in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas or GIDAs), the completion of 3,026 kilometers of the National Fiber Backbone connecting 20 provinces and over 1,000 government agencies with high-speed internet, and the passage of the Konektadong Pinoy Act and E-Governance Act, fostering a more affordable, inclusive and responsive digital ecosystem.

“These are not ceremonial accomplishments,” Aguda said.

“They are deliberate, people-first responses to the President’s call for action — and the people are already feeling the impact,” he said.

RETAIL SUPPLIER. La Rose Noire, the global pastry brand switches to Jin Navitas Electric Corp. as its new retail electricity supplier. Attending the signing are (standing from left) Rolando Tungol, La Rose engineering manager; Neo Jade De Guzman, JNEC retail operations manager; Arnel Elizalde, La Rose admin manager; (seated from left) Michael Garcia, JNEC VP for sales and marketing; Winifredo Pangilinan, JNEC chief operating officer; Jose Alfonso Miras, JNEC VP for business development and market operations; Pamela Angelie Flores, La Rose assistant general manager; and Annalyn Martinez, La Rose senior operations manager.

Wilcon expects modest growth in 2025

By Jenniffer B. Austria

WILCON Depot Inc. is expecting modest single-digit sales growth this year amid continued sluggish demand due to a challenging economic environment.

Wilcon chief operating officer Rosemarie Ong said in a press briefing that the company is cautiously optimistic while pushing through with its expansion plans.

“We’re looking at a singledigit (growth). If we could get, positive 7 or even positive 8 percent in the second half, that should pull up the whole year,” Ong said.

Ong said the second half of the year is typically stronger compared to the first half.

To support its growth plans, Wilcon has set a capital expenditure budget of P3.2 billion for the year. As of the first quarter, the company had already spent P652 million. The bulk of the budget, roughly P2.2 billion is allocated for new stores and warehouses.

Other allocations include P327 million for store and transportation equipment, P568 million for renovations and repairs, and P137 million for information technology infrastructure.

Wilcon said it plans to open six to eight new stores in 2025. However, company officials said they are no longer rushing expansions just to meet internal deadlines.

TUESDAY,

San Jose solar plant gets P498-m funding from RCBC

By Alena Mae S. Flores

SAN Jose Green Energy Corp. (SJGEC), a subsidiary of Rizal Green Energy Corp. (RGEC), recently signed a P498 million term loan facility with Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) as lender for its 19.6-megawatt San Jose Solar Power Project (SJSPP) in Nueva Ecija.

RGEC is a joint venture of the Yuchengco-led PetroGreen Energy Corp. (PGEC) and Japan’s Taisei Corp.

“This milestone underscores the shared commitment

of PGEC and RCBC, both Yuchengco Group of Companies (YGC) members, in increasing the country’s power supply, advancing sustainable energy and fostering a greener future for the Philippines,” the parties said in a statement. SJGEC also tapped RCBC Capital Corp. as lead arranger and RCBC Trust Corp. as facility agent and security trustee for SJSPP.

Leading the signing ceremony on June 10 were SJGEC president Francisco Delfin Jr. and RCBC executive vice president Elizabeth Coronel.

Cashalo gets $75-m loan to expand PH operations

CASHALO, a digital financial services provider in the Philippines, said Monday it secured a loan facility of up to $75 million from global private investment firm Community Investment Management (CIM).

The company said in a statement the funding would bolster its expanding operations in the Philippines and advance its objective of broadening access to equitable credit for millions of underserved Filipinos.

“This partnership will enable us to accelerate our mission to expand financial inclusion and social mobility throughout the Philippines,” said Luke Stidham, president of Cashalo.

New aviation campus to rise in Clark

By Othel V. Campos

CLARK International Airport Corp.

(CIAC), the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and the Philippine State College of Aeronautics (PhilSCA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly develop the Clark International Aviation Campus at the Clark Aviation Capital.

“With this strategic partnership, we’re looking at the further advancement of our country’s aviation education, infrastructure, and innovation. We aim to produce globally-qualified and high-performing personnel that will meet the strong global demand for aviation-industry workers and professionals,” CIAC president Jojit Alcazar said.

The campus will feature state-ofthe-art facilities and comprehensive academic programs designed to strengthen the country’s aviation workforce.

Alcazar cited the need for an industry-wide upgrade in civil aviation education in the Philippines, beginning with reputable pilot training programs and skills development in component and assembly manufacturing, eventually scaling into production engineering, procurement and distribution.

The MOU was signed on June 13, 2025 at the Civil Aviation Training Auditorium in Pasay City by Alcazar, CAAP director general Raul Del Rosario and PhilSCA president Marwin Dela Cruz.

THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) honored outstanding Filipino creativity and talent as it announced the winners of its 20th National Art Competition.

The awards ceremony was held at the GSIS Gymnasium. This year’s competition marked a historic milestone, attracting over 1,000 entries from artists nationwide.

In the Representational category, Crispin Tuazon secured first place with his entry “Mang Jose.” Ma. Jezshell Nicole Asares took second place for “Manpower,” and Godofredo P. Orig was awarded third place for “Panalangin Para sa Bayan.”

The Non-Representational category saw Oliver Marquez claim the top distinction for his work “Time Distor-

“With CIM’s backing, we have an incredible opportunity to uplift even more Filipino communities by scaling our impact and ensuring more Filipinos are included in the financial system,” said Stidham.

“We’re proud to support Cashalo’s mission in the Philippines. Their data-driven approach, commitment to transparency, and inclusive strategy reflect the future of responsible digital lending,” said Bernhard Eikenberg, a partner at CIM for its emerging markets strategy.

The collaboration with CIM coincides with Cashalo’s first anniversary as a part of Empower Finance, a USbased fintech firm dedicated to de-

mocratizing access to fair credit.

Cashalo has significantly enhanced its digital lending capabilities, improving customer experiences and expanding opportunities for financial inclusion nationwide. To date, Cashalo has disbursed nearly 5 million loans to Filipinos.

As part of this new phase, Cashalo is unveiling a refreshed brand identity, which it says reflects its growth, momentum, and enduring mission.

The redesigned logo features bold blue typography to convey stability and trust, complemented by goldenyellow sun rays symbolizing the optimism and resilience of the Filipino spirit.

Sugar harvest likely to surpass 2m tons this year

By Othel V. Campos

THE Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) said Monday local sugar production is poised to breach 2 million metric tons (MT) for crop year 20242025, above the initial projections.

“It was a combination of intensive research and the hard work that you’ve all done that turned this crop year into a positive year,” SRA administrator Pablo Luis Azcona said during the agency’s 39th founding anniversary celebration at the SRA office in Quezon City.

Azcona said field data indicate that sugar output may exceed 2 million MT, higher than the initial forecast of 1.78 million MT and the pre-final estimate of 1.84 million MT.

“This is quite surprising considering the challenges the industry faced at the start of the crop year. We were very prudent in our projections because we had just come out of a prolonged drought caused by El Niño. And yet, our canes recovered nicely, not to mention the stable sugar prices we’ve maintained for most of the season,” he said.

Azcona credited part of the production rebound to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s approval to move the start of the harvest season from Au-

ASIALINK Finance Corp., a leading Philippine financing company, said Monday it secured a P120-million credit line from Taiwan-based Mega International Commercial Bank Co. Ltd (Mega ICBC).

The strategic partnership aims to expand Asialink’s financing access for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The additional funding will allow Asialink to support more Filipino entrepreneurs, including small retailers, service providers, and transport operators, by providing capital for business growth, job creation and community contributions, it said in a statement.

The agreement also aligns with Asialink’s goal of strengthening grassroots enterprise development for broader economic growth.

“Our partnership with Mega ICBC is a meaningful step in widening our capacity to serve more MSMEs across the country,” said Sam Cariño, president and chief executive of Asialink Finance Corp.

“At the heart of this collaboration is our belief that inclusive financing leads to inclusive growth because when small businesses succeed, local economies thrive,” he said.

Mega ICBC, known for supporting organizations that drive inclusive development, will extend its support to Philippine MSMEs through Asialink, a financing partner with an understanding of local enterprises’ unique challenges and opportunities.

“More than their strong growth outlook, we chose to partner with Asialink because of their clear commitment to making financial services

accessible to Filipino communities,” said Kuo Yao-Yu, vice-president and general manager of Mega ICBC.

“We believe in Asialink’s mission to uplift underserved entrepreneurs and are proud to support their efforts in creating a more inclusive financial ecosystem in the Philippines,” he said.

The agreement follows other financing milestones for Asialink. In late 2024 and early 2025, Asialink secured a $115-million financing package from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and a $130-million deal with the International Finance Corp. (IFC), both aimed at expanding capital access for women-led businesses.

These partnerships collectively reflect Asialink’s growing network and its deepening impact across the Philippine MSME sector.

gust to October of any given year, allowing better crop maturity.

He also cited the continued support of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., who has pushed for SRA to become the country’s leading research agency for sugarcane.

Highlighting the role of innovation, Azcona said much of this year’s output gain came from the mass production and distribution of high-yielding sugarcane varieties.

“Personally, I was not a believer in SRA-developed varieties in the past. But without a doubt, we have produced very high-quality cane varieties that significantly boosted output,” he said.

He lauded SRA employees for exceeding expectations and working as a cohesive system, but reminded them not to rest on their laurels.

“This year’s improvement is a product of a very responsive SRA. We have improved, we’ve shown that we can do it, and we can still do more,” Azcona said.

IN BRIEF

tion.” Danilo Delos Reyes Jr. earned second place for “Mga Pangarap na Bituin,” while Davidson Tiongson’s “Gathering” placed third.

“Since 2004, the GSIS National Art Competition has served as a national platform for both emerging and veteran artists,” said GSIS president and general-manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso.

“It plays a crucial role in recognizing and promoting Filipino artists—many of our past participants are now admired in the local and global art scene,” he said.

Art Association of the Philippines (AAP) president Fidel Sarmiento commended GSIS’s commitment.

“Thank you for your unwavering support for Philippine art and culture.

GSIS’s passion for the arts is a gift to the nation,” he said.

Cashalo, a leading digital financial services provider in the Philippines, celebrates a major milestone with the signing of a $75-million loan facility from global investment firm Community Investment Management.

manager of Paloo Financing.

Signing the P120-million credit line are (from left) Sam Cariño, president and chief executive of Asialink Finance Corp.; Robert Jordan, chief executive of Asialink Group of Companies; and Ruben Lugtu III, chairman of Asialink Group of Companies, along with Kuo YaoYu, vice-president and general-manager of Mega International Commercial

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

Seaweed’s uses span the

Farmers in PH seaweed capital learn to adapt amid challenges

First of Three Parts MEN in small wooden boats come in from a day of harvesting seaweed in the Celebes Sea off of a small island in the Philippines. They hand their fresh harvests to women who carefully carry the heavy bunches up rickety wooden ladders to stilt houses teetering over the sea. Imilita Mawaldani Hikanti, along with a group of other women processors, then begin to prepare it for sale to support their families. To many people, the importance of seaweed isn’t as obvious as that of fish catches or harvested crops. But for producers on the island province of Tawi-Tawi in the far south of the Philippines, farming agal-agal, the local name for Eucheuma and

Kappaphycus seaweeds, isn’t just a way of life—it is their life.

“I learned seaweed farming at a young age. Both my parents and the family of my spouse were skilled seaweed farmers as well. It has always been our primary means of livelihood in this locality,” says Imilita. Challenges like increased cases of plant diseases and the state of the local market for seaweed, however, make this handing down of livelihoods look less likely to continue in Tawi-Tawi.

The province—dubbed the “Seaweed Capital of the Philippines”—produces around 40 percent of the country’s 600 000-ton annual output. It has primarily been for export to make carrageenan, a gelling agent used in food processing.

(To be continued) FAO News

Plastic wastes impair sustainability goals

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) strongly called for a united and urgent action against plastic pollution, citing the Philippines’ critical role in the global fight against environmental degradation.

DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said during the recent Environment and Natural Resources Day 2025 celebration in Makati City that strong cooperation across sectors and communities was the key to solving the plastic crisis.

Philippines needs more infrastructure for segregation, recovery and recycling to properly address the growing plastic waste problem.

“We need more support, public funds and private sector’s resources and technical capacity to cover whole waste management services at the local government (LGU) level,” she said.

budget. According to the UN Environment Program (UNEP), plastic production has risen exponentially in the last decades, estimated to be at around 400 million tons per year, and this figure is set to double by 2040.

environment and into our oceans,” she said.

Loyzaga stressed that the Philippines is one of the world’s reported highest contributors to plastic waste.

Loyzaga added that tackling plastic pollution demands a unified, bold and science-based action, as it has also become a climate change issue, as most of the plastics used today are derived from fossil fuels.

The DENR chief also said the

“The rapidly increasing levels of plastic pollution represent a serious global environmental issue that has grave consequences to the environmental, social, economic and health dimensions of our quest towards sustainable development,” she said.

is collaborating with Plastic Bank. Gerlie uses her new push cart to collect plastic waste and deliver them to junk shops to receive incentives. Photo by https://www. wwf.org.ph/

Waste pickers in Batangas seek to end plastic pollution

Conclusion

WASTE pickers like Briones, whether informal or part of a cooperative, are responsible for almost 60 percent of all the plastic waste collected globally, according to one study. But waste pickers often have few employment rights and no access to health insurance, the latter especially problematic in a field where cuts and infections are common, experts say.

“As we move toward a more sustainable future, it is vital that this transition is just and inclusive, and that waste pickers are guaranteed Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work–including the right to a safe and healthy working environment,” says Moustapha Kamal Gueye, Director of the Action Programme on Just Transition at the International Labour Organization. “A just transition must leave no one behind, and that includes the millions of waste pickers and workers whose labour underpins recycling systems around the world.” Experts point to cooperatives, like San Jose Sico, as a model for the just transition. The organization has 500 members who receive a regular income, accident insurance and paid sick leave.

Briones says he is grateful for what the job has given him. “Some people might view our work as dirty or unpleasant, but we choose to ignore such opinions,” says Briones, who joined the cooperative when his father suffered a stroke and could no longer support the family. “I’ve been able to establish my own home, small as it may be, and can support my family, my father, and ensure my child receives a good education.”

A growing number of countries are exploring laws that would require those who place plastic products on the market to be responsible for the end-of-life management of their products. Waste pickers could play a role in operationalizing these so-called extended producer responsibility schemes.

“The manufacturers will eventually look for those who can do the work,” says manager of San Jose Sico Landfill cooperative Sherryl Hernandez, who took part in a study conducted by SEA Circular, a UNEP-supported initiative designed to prevent marine plastic pollution with funding from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. “Who has that capability? It’s waste workers,” adds Hernandez.

For UNEP’s Tonda, extended producer responsibility schemes could create opportunities to integrate informal waste pickers into solutions across the life cycle, including waste management systems. The schemes are being rolled out in countries around the world.

Fees collected through the schemes could support waste management operations by creating jobs, providing training for workers and promoting safer working conditions, including by reducing exposure to potentially hazardous materials.

“The millions of waste pickers are a strong ally in the quest for solutions as the world seeks to end plastic pollution,” says Tonda.

“Recognizing waste picker’s role to achieve this will allow them to continue supporting themselves and their families through their work.”

Loyzaga said plastics release greenhouse gases (GHG) into the atmosphere, which degrade the environment when unmanaged.

Based on studies, she said by 2050, the GHG emissions from plastic could reach 56 gigatons, which she said is equivalent to 10 percent to 13 percent of the entire remaining carbon

CCC stickers to save

THE Climate Change Commission (CCC) has released the “Bawal Plastik Dito!” sticker pack to promote awareness on ocean protection and the importance of proper waste management in observance of the Philippine Environment Month this month.

The initiative supports this year’s theme, “Ending Global Plastic Pollutions,” which underscores the urgent need for bold action against the escalating plastic crisis that threatens ecosystems, biodiversity and public health.

Available on Viber and Telegram, the sticker pack features oceanthemed designs that highlight the dangers of plastic pollution in marine ecosystems.

Each year, up to 10 million metric tons of plastic end up in the ocean, accounting for 80 percent of all marine pollution. An estimated 50 trillion to 75 trillion pieces of plastic and microplastics now circulate in our oceans.

“The amount of plastic waste in the ocean is alarming, considering that it generally takes 500 to 1,000 years for them to degrade,” said CCC Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje.

“Ocean clean-up should be our last resort. What we do—immediately—is to reject single-use plastics and ramp up our waste management system in our households and communities,” he said.

He said under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., “we have developed the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) to point us in the right direction when dealing with the plastics challenge that exacerbates our climate crisis.”

The NAP outlines a whole-of-nation approach to addressing the country’s vulnerability to climate change and disaster risks. It is aligned with the Philippine Action Plan for Sustainable Consumption and Production (PAP4SCP), and supports the implementation of key policies, such as the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act, which mandates large companies to manage the lifecycle of their plastic packaging waste.

The sticker pack also serves as a show of support for the Third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3), which took place from June 9 to 13 in Nice, France.CCC News

Loyzaga said the Philippines currently produces around 61,000 metric tons of solid waste daily, of which 12 percent to 24 percent comprises plastic.

“Filipinos utilize, take note, 163 million plastic sachet packets, 48 million shopping bags and 45 million thin-film bags daily. Thirty three percent of that waste finds its way into landfills and dumpsites, and around 35 percent is leaked into the open

Yulo-Loyzaga said the DENR is now working with concerned stakeholders, including multilateral development banks, such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and nongovernment organizations (NGO) partners such as Clean Rivers of the UAE’s Zayed Foundation (Erth Zayed Philanthropies), to rehabilitate important historical, cultural and economic areas such as the Pasig River, Laguna de Bay and Manila Bay.Marita Moaje, PNA

THE ocean is under siege—and greed is to blame.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres last week urged world leaders and grassroots groups to confront the powerful interests driving marine destruction, from illegal fishing and plastic pollution to the accelerating impacts of climate change.

Guterres’ stark assessment came during a press conference on the second day of the UN ocean summit, known as UNOC3, where hundreds of government leaders, scientists and civil society groups are gathered on France’s Côte d’Azur. Their mission: to confront the escalating emergency facing the

“We are in Nice on a mission--save the ocean, to save our future,” the Secretary-General said, and warned that a tipping point is fast-approaching “beyond which recovery may become impossible.”

The “clear enemy” that is pushing our oceans towards the brink is greed.

According to the UN chief, greed sows doubt, denies science, distorts truth, rewards corruption and destroys life for profit. “We cannot let greed dictate the fate of our planet,” he said.

Calling on all stakeholders to assume their responsibility in pushing back against these profit-hungry forces, the Secretary-General said: “That is why we are here this week: to stand in solidarity against those forces and reclaim what belongs to us all.”UN News

Ice-ice disease and low prices are key problems for seaweed farmers in Tawi-Tawi. FAO/Dadis Dawnavie

food, industrial, agricultural and energy sectors. FAO/Dadis Dawnavie

TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Shticks

Joseph Peter Gonzales

FranSeth prioritizes friendship over fan expectations

LOVE team Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, collectively known as FranSeth, emphasized that they feel no pressure to enter a romantic relationship just to satisfy fans in a recent interview. The duo stressed authenticity in their public image, with Fedelin stating, “We just let our followers see the real us. That way, they feel at ease. No matter what comes our way, they remain steady.” Diaz echoed his sentiment, saying, “We don’t need to lie about our real status. Our fans understand us—they know the truth. In fact, if anyone knows the real score between me and Seth, it’s them.”

When pressed about the nature of their relationship, Fedelin acknowledged their long-standing bond: “We’ve been tested by time. Our love team has had ups and downs, but we’re still together. I can assure you, I want Francine to be part of my future. However, Diaz clarified that his statement shouldn’t be interpreted romantically. “Just because Seth sees me in his future doesn’t mean there’s romance. Right now, we’re best friends. We won’t rush answers just to please the public.”

The pair emphasized protecting their friendship and professional partnership. “We guard our work and our on-screen chemistry. If we ever take things to the next level, we won’t hide it from fans,” Diaz said.

Fedelin added that they remain cautious about future commitments. “We can’t predict what lies ahead or what challenges we’ll face. But we won’t mislead fans—FranSeth’s strength is being true to each other as friends and allies.”

While acknowledging their close bond, Diaz said love should not be rushed. “We have our own fears, which is why we’re not rushing into anything. Our parents also remind us to focus on our careers first. Love can wait.”

Fans of the hit love team will have to stay patient as the stars navigate their relationship, both on and off-screen, at their own pace.

* * *

How proud are we of our Filipino roots? Are we aware that many original “Pinoy” things often go unrecognized or underappreciated? These are some of the questions explored in I Love Filipino, the first all-Filipino documentary series to stream on Netflix Philippines.

Produced by Team MMPI Production, the five-part series premiered on June 12, coinciding with the celebration of Independence Day. It was produced by Marnie Manicad, who also serves as CEO, executive producer, and principal director of Team MMPI.

“It has always been Team MMPI’s advocacy to promote nationalism,” Manicad said. “I believe that producing positive content can uplift our spirit as a nation and help us face future challenges. I want to contribute to positive change by highlighting our heritage, culture, creativity, and talent.”

As director, Manicad gained a deeper appreciation of Filipino traditions, values, and origins. “I learned a lot while filming. It was enlightening to understand the stories behind our food, the Bahay Kubo, music, and architecture. I especially enjoyed working on the ‘Sawsawjuan’ episode. It shows there’s so much to learn from the ordinary things in our daily lives,” she said. Each episode tackles a different cultural theme. Pinoy Altanghap explores Filipino food favorites like Tapsilog, Lechon CarCar, and Sisig, and asks what flavors truly appeal to Filipinos. It also looks at staple ingredients in Filipino cooking.

Himig focuses on Filipino music and its role in our culture, asking how we can preserve it amid foreign influences. Juan with Art features modern Filipino artists like comic book artist Leinil Yu, painter Ronald Ventura, and sculptor Michael Cacnio showcasing their global recognition.

Sawsawjuan delves into the Filipino love for sawsawan or dipping sauces, while Bahay Kubo highlights the traditional nipa hut, not just as a symbol of simplicity, but as an inspiration for modern Filipino architecture dating back to the 1970s.

The series is hosted by Manicad’s husband, television journalist Jiggy Manicad. “We have so much cultural wealth and heritage that we should be aware of,” he said. “I Love Filipino is a step toward bringing this into every Filipino’s consciousness.”

Jess Martinez trades social media fame for acting dreams

Very Wang Nickie Wang

SHOWBIZ newbie Jess Martinez has already built a substantial following on TikTok, with over 500,000 followers. Though she could have easily stayed in the comfortable, algorithm-driven world of social media influencing, she is making a refreshing gamble that could redefine her career.

“Before entering showbiz, I was a social media influencer, more into fashion and lifestyle. My main platform is TikTok, and through my videos, I get to express who I really am, how I dress up, and a glimpse of my family,” Jess, who is studying at Southville International School and taking up Business Management, said.

At a time when many seasoned stars are shifting toward influencer platforms, Jess explained that her reason for changing direction sets her apart.

“What I like about showbiz is that I get to express my emotions…I’m referring to acting. I get to showcase the many different sides of my personality, and I feel more motivated,” she told Manila Standard Entertainment in an interview. “I’m not here for fame, I’m here to showcase my talent and hone my craft at the same time.”

She was formally introduced by Artist Circle during an intimate press gathering attended by select members of the media and entertainment blogging community. In the junket, she spoke about what pushed her to take on this new chapter and why she’s pursuing a career in acting.

career

“Unlike being a social media influencer, which is routine-based—you’re doing the same thing over and over—in showbiz, you get to portray different characters, so I’m able to hone my skills,” she explained.

Initially, she joined an acting workshop out of curiosity. “When I joined the workshop, it was really just out of curiosity at first,” she admitted. But something clicked. “That’s when I felt like, ‘Oh, this is something I’ve been looking for in my life’—something new and something where I could express myself.”

Jess was born in Cotabato City, but she grew up in Davao after her family moved in when she was in second grade. Unlike many stars who come from industry families, Jess has no showbiz connections, her family is in business. Yet, her childhood love for teleseryes planted a dream.

“My family loves watching teleseryes. So, I told myself that I want to become a star one day. I want to be seen on television and to express my emotions and craft,” she said.

Now, with her role in GMA’s upcoming series Sanggang Dikit alongside Dennis Trillo and Jennilyn Mercado, she’s proving that her ambition to work with icons like Heart Evangelista and Marian Rivera is not

Catriona Gray shrugs off ‘ViCat’ buzz

By Jasper Valdez

Sotto

being realized.

FORMER Miss Universe Catriona Gray had a good laugh when asked about the online trend linking her to Pasig Mayor Vico

Gray dismissed romance rumors in a June 12 interview during the MEGA Ball, saying, “Follow-an lang. Mutuals lang.”

She added that she and Sotto simply follow each other on Instagram, with no direct message exchanges between them.

Gray said she was “surprised” by fans creating portmanteau names like “ViCat” but reiterated, “There’s not much more than a mutual follow.”

The Miss Universe 2018 queen said the attention was flattering but emphasized it’s “just mutuals.”

Vico Sotto, meanwhile, has not publicly commented on the social media interaction.

On-screen partner Seth Fedelin (left) and Francine Diaz

Netizens gush over Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto (left) and Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray after they started following each other on social media

Rising star Jess Martinez has amassed over

Jess says that it is her dream to become an actress

SHOWBIZ

What keeps

‘Pepito

Manaloto’ going

after more than a decade

By Jasper Valdez

AFTER more than a decade on the air, Pepito Manaloto remains a staple in Filipino households. And for series creator, lead actor, and now director Michael V., the secret to its longevity is simple—love the show.

“We have passion in what we do,” he told reporters during a set visit for Pepito Manaloto: Tuloy ang Kwento on May 29. “I think the secret is to love the show—not just me, but also the staff, the crew, the creatives, and the whole cast.”

Michael V., also fondly known in the industry as Bitoy, said that this shared passion has helped sustain the series through cast changes, creative pauses, and even the pandemic.

Now serving as both actor and director, he also acknowledged the legacy of the late director Bert de Leon

“We couldn’t find it in our hearts to replace Direk Bert, and that led to me being assigned as director. But we’re just carrying on his legacy,” he said. The show, known for mixing humor with everyday family lessons, has also evolved with its audience.

And while television ratings still matter to the network, Bitoy said he puts more weight on how episodes resonate online.

“Sometimes, it doesn’t reflect on the ratings,” he said. “But when it’s shown

F R O N T R O W

By Chong Ardivilla

HOW to Train Your Dragon (2025, directed by Dean DeBlois) does the unthinkable in live-action: it delivers an excellent remake while simultaneously proving, yet again, why live-action remakes should not be given more oxygen.

DeBlois is no stranger to the franchise—he kickstarted the animated films and previously wrote and directed Walt Disney’s Lilo & Stitch (2002). The guy knows his stuff. It would have been better if Hollywood had given him the chance to forge new stories instead of retreading old ones.

DeBlois clearly has the talent to innovate and entertain. Yet here we are, watching regurgitated intellectual property because it’s a safe bet.

The live-action How to Train Your Dragon boasts mind-bogglingly amazing special

on social media or YouTube, you’ll see the comments and the views. For me, that’s the most rewarding.”

Bitoy explained that before airing, he tries to get a good feel for an episode’s potential by reading the script and watching the cast chemistry during rehearsals.

“Every time we make an episode, the writers read it to us first, and then the cast reads it together.

That’s how we get a good feel for the episodes of our show,” he said.

With Pepito Manaloto: Tuloy ang Kwento, the team continues to blend entertainment with practical wisdom, especially for audiences navigating changes in fortune, family, or modern life.

Bitoy said they remain intentional about creating episodes that leave viewers with something to take home.

“We make it a point that our audience will learn something,” he said. “Sometimes, the words of wisdom get replaced by a heartfelt scene or a song, but it’s still there.”

Despite the challenges of running a long-standing series, Bitoy said the commitment from everyone involved, from script to screen, keeps the show going.

HOW to Train Your Dragon , a live-action reboot of a popular 2010 animated film, roared to the top of the North American box office with $83.7 million in weekend ticket sales, industry estimates showed Sunday. The family-friendly film from Universal and DreamWorks Animation tells the story of a friendship between a Viking named Hiccup ( Mason Thames ) and a dragon called Toothless. So far, the film about Hawaiian girl Lilo (Maia Kealoha ) and her blue alien friend Stitch (Chris Sanders ) has grossed nearly $860 million worldwide.

Debuting in third place is A24’s Materialists , a sophisticated rom-com starring Dakota Johnson , Pedro Pascal, and Chris Evans , at $12 million.

Mission: Impossible—The Final Reckoning , the latest and ostensibly last in the hugely successful Tom Cruise spy thriller series based on a 1960s TV show, held its own in fourth place at $10.3 million. The Paramount film has now topped the $500 million mark worldwide. In fifth place was Lionsgate’s Ballerina , a John Wick spin-off starring Ana de Armas as a dancer turned contract killer and co-starring Anjelica Huston Keanu Reeves makes a brief appearance as the hitman Wick. It took in $9.4 million.

Rounding out the top 10 were Karate Kid: Legends with $5 million, followed by Final Destination: Bloodlines at $3.9 million, The Phoenician Scheme with $3.1 million, The Life of Chuck earning $2.1 million, and Sinners closing the list at $1.5 million. AFP

And as long as the audience keeps watching, he said, they’ll keep telling Pepito’s story.

Your Dragon franchise is embedded in themes of queerness and societal control. Just look at the names of the father and son. The chieftain, Stoick the Vast (played by original voice actor Gerard Butler, the epitome of masculine

Reptilian money grab: ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ soars with dollar signs

effects. The dragons audiences fell in love with in the animated films are rendered with painstaking detail, down to the last scale. The creature design is astounding, making these reptilian beasts both cute and endearing. The action sequences involving the dragons put recent blockbusters— Mission: Impossible included —to shame.

gruffness), stands in stark contrast to his son, Hiccup (portrayed by the endearing Mason Thames , who first gained attention as a kidnap victim in The Black Phone [2022, directed by Scott Derrickson ]).

impressive

The disparity between “The Vast” and “Hiccup” is no accident—it’s a tiny, irritating aberration, a bodily rebellion against destabilization. Hiccups, by definition, are queer. This isn’t to say Hiccup is gay, but he sticks out like a sore thumb in a community that deifies machismo and violence.

Remarkably, Train Your Dragon lags, an impressive feat for a fantasy film layered with real-world issues: resource extraction, the demonization of the unknown, and the classic discordant father-son dynamic.

This feels especially poignant during Pride Month, given how deeply the How to Train

Hiccup wants to protect his village but is relegated to assisting Gobber (a delightfully spirited Nick Frost), the town’s blacksmith and inventor. Yet it’s Hiccup’s queerness—his refusal to conform—that ultimately saves the village and redefines the dragons’ role. Gobber, canonically gay in the animated films, carries hints of homoerotic tension with Stoick, something Frost has acknowledged in press interviews. He’s also confirmed that How to Train Your Dragon 2 is already greenlit. There’s big money in this franchise—one that, ironically, revolves around strangeness and defying cultural expectations. I mean, the protagonist’s dragon is a gummy, adorable creature named Toothless. If that’s not queer, what is? You may reach Chong Ardivilla at kartunistatonto@gmail.com or chonggo.bsky. social

Director Dean DeBlois’ live-action ’How to Train Your Dragon’ impresses with stunning creature design and action, while revisiting themes of queerness, identity,

Hiccup and Toothless soar above clouds in a visually stunning scene from the live-action remake of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’

Behind-the-scenes of a new episode for long-running family sitcom ‘Pepito Manaloto’

From left: Arthur Solinap, Janna Dominguez, Angel Satsumi, Mosang, and Manilyn Reynes rehearsing a scene on the set of ‘Pepito Manaloto’

Veteran comedy actors Michael V. (left) and Manilyn Reynes pose on the set of ‘Pepito Manaloto: Tuloy ang Kwento’

TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

N O W & N E X T

By Nickie Wang

THIS month, something exciting is happening in the local fashion and beauty scene. Two retail giants, Kultura and SM Beauty, are joining forces for “Glow Filipina,” a monthlong pop-up at SM Makati that celebrates the bold and authentic beauty of today’s Filipina.

Glow Filipina provides a timely and relevant platform as it encourages every Filipina to wear her culture with pride and style.

Running until June 30 at SM Makati, the collaboration between homegrown brands trains the spotlight on independent Filipino labels in makeup, fashion, and accessories. While mall pop-ups are nothing new, Glow Filipina distinguishes itself by pushing a message of identity, confidence, and self-expression through local craftsmanship.

The event’s theme, “Your look. Your style. All local,” speaks directly to a generation of Filipinas who are defining beauty on their own terms. While Western beauty standards have long dominated the local scene, it’s a welcome shift to see a wide spectrum of skin tones, silhouettes,

Pride in Filipina beauty and culture

FILIPINO restaurant chain JT’s Manukan Grille has opened its second Singapore location at IMM Mall in Jurong East, marking one year since it launched in the city-state.

Founded in the Philippines in 2003, the brand is known for its signature chicken inasal and Filipino-style hospitality. Its latest branch is located along “Makan Street,” IMM Mall’s food zone, and continues its push to expand the reach of traditional Filipino cuisine in Southeast Asia.

“Our journey in Singapore has been incredible, and we are grateful for the warm reception we’ve received from fellow Filipinos and the Singaporean community,” said founder and actor Joel Torre

The new outlet features the brand’s grilled specialties and will serve as a venue for future collaborations with local influencers and content creators. JT’s Manukan Grille first entered the Singapore market in 2024.

C4 LIFE

and indigenous designs finally celebrated on mainstream platforms.

The lineup reads like a who’s who of local beauty and style. Indie cosmetics brands such as BLK, Careline, Ever Bilena, Happy Skin, Issy, Spotlight, Teviant, and Vice are featured alongside Filipiniana and modern wear by Berches, Binibining Marikit, Matthew and Melka, Nuevo Ystilo, and Rurungan. Bags and accessories from Anmari, Carioca, Intricado, and Jim Weaver also make an appearance, as do jewelry pieces by Boho Manila, Khai Pearl, My Gems, and Pamanna Jewellery.

The pop-up also incorporates an “experiential shopping” model that invites consumers to engage through mini makeovers, interactive styling, and even photo booths. The official launch on June 11 brings together media, content creators, and influencers to explore brand installations and engage with the products firsthand.

What makes Glow Filipina worth noting is its attempt to merge commerce with cultural advocacy. It positions Filipino artisans and entrepreneurs as leaders in beauty and design. It also reminds consumers that supporting local is about valuing the creativity and heritage that go into each product.

Intricate embroidery highlights the artistry behind every Glow Filipina look

from its signature twists and turns, the upgrade will feature a new loading and unloading experience, along with more efficient operation and monitoring of the ride.

AGILA The EKsperience, the first and only flying theater in the Philippines, has been the cornerstone of EK’s magical and educational entertainment, catering to over half a million students each year. Parkgoers experience a magical journey soaring on the wings of the Philippine eagle to witness the most iconic destinations in the country.

The reopening

In

EK announces park developments with two major attractions reopening in October

ENCHANTED Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, is set to bring even more enchanting experiences to all Filipinos for its 30th anniversary, as it temporarily closes two of its major rides, the Space Shuttle and AGILA The EKsperience, from July 1 to Sept. 30. EK president and chairman Cesar Mario O. Mamon shared that the major enhancement and upgrade of the two attractions are at the forefront of their ongoing park revitalization and commitment to providing more magical experiences to all parkgoers.

“Beyond our steadfast pursuit of introducing new enchanting experiences, we are also dedicated to reimagining and reengineering our existing attractions, ensuring that multi-generational guests will be forever enchanted this 2025 and the years to come,” he furthered. Both attractions are expected to reopen as part of EK’s 30th anniversary celebration in October. The iconic rollercoaster ride, Space Shuttle, is one of EK’s legacy rides and has been bringing thrill and excitement ever since the theme park opened its gates to the public in 1995. Aside

19. Guests can still enjoy the theme park’s more than 30 rides and attractions, including EKlipse, its newest family thrill ride and the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. Various enchanting events and offerings are also in store for everyone as EK continues to be the premier theme park in the country.

For more information and updates regarding these, along with EK’s other events and offers, visit https:// www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts @ enchantedkingdom.ph on Facebook and TikTok, and @ek_philippines on Instagram.

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