Manila Standard - 2025 June 27 - Friday

DOJ: ‘Sabungero’ case brains ‘very powerful’

By Pot Chavez

JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Thursday warned the mastermind in the case of the missing “sabungeros” (cockfight aficionados) is not only powerful but also has enough money to influence even the courts.

Remulla sees more witnesses in Rody ICC case

By Pot Chavez and Joel Zurbano

JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin

Remulla said yesterday that “three or four” witnesses are now under government protection and he expects more to testify against former President Rodrigo Duterte after an ICC request that those testifying for the prosecution in the crimes against humanity case be shielded from reprisal.

"We will protect the witnesses, whatever it takes to protect the witnesses, we will do because the prosecution will rely on the witnesses to prove their case," he told reporters.

However, the justice secretary noted that the government can only protect witnesses while they remain on Philippine soil.

“Of course, when they get to The Hague [we can no longer protect them]. But while they are here, we exhaust our obligation to them. If we can protect witnesses for other cases, why not in this case,” he explained in a mixture of Filipino and English.

Still, Remulla clarified that the unnamed witnesses have yet to be officially included in the witness protection program where the national government shoulders their expenses, but hinted on this possibility sometime in the future.

“So long as there is coordination if there’s a problem, we bridge the gaps.

Remulla said he will seek a meeting with Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo to discuss his apprehensions that the judiciary might be compromised.

“Remember, our adversary here is a heavyweight, with money to infiltrate even the

Tel Aviv embassy advises downgrade of PH alert level

By Othel V. Campos

UP.

after

Senate to carefully consider any motion to dismiss—Alan

THE Senate impeachment court is given much leeway on what it can do, according to Senator-judge Alan Peter Cayetano. He added however, that just because the Senate can does not mean it should. Cayetano made these remarks on Thursday amid comments that the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte could be dismissed after her camp asserted that there were no Articles of Impeachment submitted to the Senate, which remanded it to the House of Representatives.

“We are talking only of two

things: What can be done and what should be done? They are different,” Cayetano said in mixed English and Filipino. He also cited a view by Senate President Francis Escudero that the impeachment case could be dismissed. “That’s the reality that the Senate acts through its members and the majority wins,” Cayetano pointed out.

“What is the limitation there? he asked. “We cannot do anything unconstitutional because that may constitute grave abuse of discretion

cops in Atimonan case

By Pot Chavez

THE Group of Seven (G7) has called out China for its "increasing use" of dangerous maneuvers and water cannons against Filipino vessels, reiterating its opposition to Beijing’s ‘‘intimidation activities’’ in the South China Sea. In a communiqué issued on Saturday following the G7 Summit in Apulia, Italy, the leaders of the powerful economic bloc expressed concern over developments in the East and South China Seas, reiterating their ‘‘strong opposition to any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion.’’

‘‘We continue opposing China’s dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia in the South China Sea and its repeated obstruction of countries’ high seas freedom of navigation,’’ the statement read.

HOMAGE TO FISHERFOLK. Students in colorful regalia, representing the Municipality of Sabtang, in the island province of Batanes, pay homage to fisherfolk and the island's main livelihood of fishing clad through a musical and dance number during the 42nd foundation week of Batanes. Dave Leprozo

THUMBS

House Speaker Martin Romualdez gestures with a thumbs up sign in this group photo with neophyte lawmakers-elect

a fellowship dinner he hosted yesterday at Imelda Hall in Aguado, Manila. Ver Noveno

House leaders decry VP Sara’s ‘bobo’ remarks

By Maricel V. Cruz

TWO House leaders on Thursday criticized Vice President Sara Duterte’s controversial use of the word “bobo” in response to questions about her frequent foreign trips, saying such language is unbecoming of a national leader and undermines the standards of public office.

“It’s uncalled for,” said House Assistant Majority Leader and Manila 1st District Rep. Ernesto Dionisio Jr., reacting to Duterte’s statement that those in the administration criticizing her travels are either deliberately

DOJ:...

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judiciary. And that's one thing that we might have to talk to the Chief Justice about, because e-sabong money is not to be taken lightly,” he said in an interview with reporters.

Remulla said the alleged mastermind boasted his connection reaches all the way up to the Supreme Court.

“The mastermind said, in his own words, that he can influence even the Supreme Court,” Remulla said.

The Justice chief, however, declined to identify the suspected mastermind, but said the person was part of a group of about 20 individuals, including some government and police officials, who have adopted a corporate setup in running the billion-peso e-sabong industry.

He said the DOJ is coordinating with various government agencies in scouring the bed of Taal Lake, where the bodies of the missing “sabungeros” and others were allegedly dumped, according to a whistleblower.

The 34 “sabungeros” went missing between April 2021 and January 2022.

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‘‘We express serious concern about the increasing use of dangerous maneuvers and water cannons against Philippine vessels.’’

The G7 leaders reaffirmed that they do not recognize China’s maritime claims beyond the zones defined by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), citing the 2016 Arbitral Ruling on the South China Sea.

‘‘In this regard, we reaffirm that there is no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and we oppose China’s militarization and coercive and intimidation activities in the South China Sea,’’ they said.

‘‘We re-emphasize the universal and unified character of UNCLOS and reaffirm its important role in setting out the legal framework that governs all activities in the oceans and seas.’’ They noted that the 2016 Arbitral Award is ‘‘legally binding upon the parties to those proceedings’’ and could serve as a “useful basis for peacefully resolving’’ maritime disputes.

The G7 is composed of the world’s leading industrialized democracies— Canada, France, the United States,

Tel Aviv...

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both Middle Eastern nations under Alert Level 3—indicating voluntary repatriation—for all Filipinos living and working in the affected areas. However, based on updates from the DFA's Office of Middle East and African Affairs, the embassy has advised lowering it back to Alert Level 2, or the restriction phase, in the five-tier crisis alert system.

While the ceasefire has brought some temporary relief, concerns remain high.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said it expects at least 20 more overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to return to the Philippines in the coming days, amid lingering tensions in the region.

DMW Undersecretary Felicitas Bay reported that the total number of overseas Filipinos who have indicated willingness to be repatriated from

decorum that you should follow,” Dionisio said at a press conference.

“I believe respect begets respect. Name-calling or throwing bad words at our neighbors will not get us anywhere,” he added.

Dionisio stressed that public officials are expected to set an example, especially for the younger generation.

He pointed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as someone who continues to show restraint despite political attacks.

misunderstanding or simply “bobo,” or stupid.

“Each leader—same goes with House members—each position, basta leader ka ng isang bansa (if you are a country leader), there’s a certain

“We are doing everything now. We've talked to the Armed Forces, Navy, and Coast Guard who are willing to undertake the technical diving exercise needed for this,” he said.

“We are also contacting the Japanese government for assistance here. We also have remote vehicles at the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) that we can use but we lack the technical expertise and experience,” he added.

On Wednesday, Remulla said the killers of more than 100 missing sabungeros were paid P500,000 for each kill.

“This is an organized crime and it’s not easy to prove. It’s something that should be pursued from every angle,” he said in a television interview.

Earlier, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said the identities and unit assignments of the 20 suspected police officers involved in the killings are being withheld to prevent potential escape attempts or efforts to go off the grid.

“Regardless of who is involved here—whether that may be a civilian, a high-profile person, or even one of our comrades—we will not spare anyone,” Fajardo said.

Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

China claims a vast portion of the South China Sea, including areas within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

In August 2023, the Chinese Coast Guard first used water cannons to disrupt the passage of Filipino vessels conducting a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal.

Despite China’s presence in the area, the Philippine government recently concluded another successful resupply mission to the grounded ship.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said Friday afternoon that the latest resupply effort was “very successful,’’ though he did not provide the date or specific details of the operation.

"It's enough to say we will continue bringing supplies to our troops, we will continue rotating our troops in all the features that we are occupying in the West Philippine Sea, and we will continue to protect our territory and our sovereign rights," Brawner said.

He added that there were no Chinese attempts to seize the supplies during this latest mission’unlike the May 19 airdrop mission, during which Chinese Coast Guard personnel managed to snatch one airdrop pack and threw its contents into the water.

the region has now reached 346.

‘‘We are arranging for the flights of 20 OFWs this weekend,’’ Bay said.

The Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv continues to advise Filipino citizens to remain vigilant and to avoid unnecessary outdoor activity for their safety.

The safety of OFWs is not only a humanitarian concern but also an economic one, as their remittances contribute significantly to the Philippine economy.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) said the ceasefire announcement—credited to diplomatic backchanneling by former U.S.

President Donald Trump—was a welcome development, but warned that the Philippines remains economically vulnerable should hostilities resume.

‘‘At the moment, the effect is hardly felt. But if the conflict escalates, even if we’re not directly involved and are geographically

Marawi Rehabilitation chairman and Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong also raised concerns about the Vice President’s behavior and priorities, especially in light of her repeated overseas travels.

“She has her obligation here in the country. So I guess the question really is about the frequency of her travels abroad. Because if you are the official, you are also expected by the public to be present every time in areas where you are supposed to serve,” Adiong said.

“With so much criticism being thrown at him--this is my own opinion--he maintains that decorum of being a good leader," Dionisio said.

House Ad Hoc Committee on

While not surprised by Duterte’s remarks, Adiong emphasized that public officials must be held to higher standards in public discourse.

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amounting to lack of jurisdiction, and the Supreme Court can reverse it,” he noted.

“Now just because you can, it doesn’t mean you should, right?” he added. “So we really have to take a deep breath and think what’s best for the country.”

This is the reason why, according to Cayetano, majority of the senatorjudges agreed to return the Articles of Impeachment to the House instead of dismissing it outright.

Because of this move, Cayetano said they will be able to see if there was a violation of the one-year bar rule, and if the 20th Congress would be interested to pursue the impeachment complaint.

On Wednesday, Senate President and impeachment court presiding officer Francis Escudero said there was nothing prohibiting the senatorjudges from presenting any motion on the floor.

Asked if the impeachment could vote to dismiss the case based on the answer ad cautelam of Duterte, Escudero answered in the affirmative.

“That is possible, but I don’t want to second guess the impeachment court. That was also the argument raised by the Vice President before the Supreme Court, as I understood

distant, we could still face significant economic, labor, and security challenges,’’ said PCCI president Enunina Mangio.

She cited the country’s heavy reliance on imported oil as a key vulnerability, noting that renewed tensions in the Middle East could drive global oil prices higher, worsening domestic inflation.

Beyond energy costs, the PCCI also raised alarms about the safety of OFWs, particularly those working in the Gulf region.

A wider conflict, it said, could force the Philippine government into undertaking emergency repatriation efforts.

‘‘This doesn’t just endanger lives, but also threatens remittance flows and the livelihoods of thousands of families who depend on income from abroad,’’ Mangio added.

She also flagged the risk of global supply chain disruptions, particularly if strategic maritime routes such as the Suez Canal or the Strait of Hor-

“That’s why we, as public officials, also have to call out whenever there are utterances or words, phrases that come out individually, not just specifically citing the Vice President,” he said.

He explained that the Vice President’s words do not reflect only on her, but on the office she represents.

“When she speaks about certain things and utterances, certain words, it does not only reflect her own personality but also reflects the office that she occupies, which to us should be held to higher standards,” Adiong said.

He urged public officials to focus on substance rather than insults.

Remulla...

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[Just] to make sure that the witesses are fine and they're functioning properly. At least, the threats on their lives are [now] lessened,” he added.

Remulla also pointed out that safeguarding ICC witnesses does not necessarily signal a reversal in the Philippines’ position of remaining a non-ICC member.

“The government has to protect the people. Whether they are witnesses for the ICC or the general populace, we try to protect the people,” the DOJ chief said

As this developed, the Office of the Vice President (OVP) urged journalists covering Vice President Sara Duterte and her family to uphold high standards of accuracy in their reporting.

The appeal was made after a major daily published a news article in connection with the former president’s petition for interim release, titled, “Sara: Why would drug war victims’ families object?”

it,” Escudero said. He explained that in all voting cases, simple majority was all it needed. Two-thirds vote is necessary to convict or acquit. But it begs the question, if you have simple majority, then it is impossible to garner two-thirds, right?” he said.

Nonetheless, an impeachment prosecutor of the House of Representatives disagreed with the position of Escudero that the senator-judges can vote to dismiss the articles of impeachment against the Vice President.

Representative Gerville Luistro of Batangas maintained that the impeachment court could not dismiss the Articles of Impeachment.

“The Constitution is clear. The power/function of the Impeachment Court is to try and to decide. Let us take note of the use of the word ‘and,’” Luistro added.

She said both the prosecution and the defense panels must be given an opportunity to present their evidence.

“Trial on the merits is mandatory. Ample opportunity to present evidence must be given both to the prosecution and the defense. Then and only then can the senator-judges decide whether to convict or to acquit,” Luistro stressed.

Senator Ronald dela Rosa had moved for the dismissal of the Articles of Impeachment, but his motion was eventually amended to return the complaint to the House pending submission of two certifications.

muz are affected by further military activity. Mangio further emphasized the potential for regional security spillover and urged Philippine policymakers and businesses to remain alert and develop contingency strategies.

Meanwhile, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has urged the faithful to pray for the safety and well-being of Filipinos, particularly OFWs, caught in the crossfire of the Israel-Iran conflict.

In a statement, the CBCP expressed deep concern for the challenges faced by Filipino migrant workers and emphasized the importance of solidarity and spiritual support in such trying times.

Church leaders also echoed the government's call for OFWs to consider returning home and to participate in the voluntary repatriation program. There are an estimated 30,000 Filipinos currently residing in Israel, many of whom are employed in the caregiving sector.

The OVP called out the newspaper’s editorial and reportorial teams, saying “the headline and lead paragraph of the story are false, malicious and inaccurate.”

“The article falsely claimed that Vice President Sara Duterte cannot understand why the families of the victims of the drug war oppose the petition of her father for interim release from the International Criminal Court (ICC)," the office stated.

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Gollod, John Paolo Carracedo, Timoteo Orig, Joselito de Guzman, Carlo Cataquiz, Arturo Sarmiento, Eduardo Oranan, Nelson Indal, Wryan Sardea, and Rodel Talento on the ground of the justifying circumstance on account of their performance of official duty.

“In the face of actual and imminent danger to their lives and limbs, with the information that the occupants of the Montero SUVs were fully armed, the policemen and soldiers acted swiftly,” the ruling stated.

“The force used to overcome the unlawful aggression was reasonable,” it added.

Police initially asserted that the fatalities were members of a gunfor-hire group— a claim denied by the slain men's relatives.

The Court, however, noted that Marantan was initially shot and injured during the incident.

“The offensive act of shooting Marantan showed intention to cause injury and constituted unlawful aggression. Under the circumstances, the peril to the lives and limbs of the policemen and soldiers was actual and imminent,” the decision read.

The court ordered the bail bonds to be cancelled and returned to the respondents.

Meanwhile, Marantan has filed a request for relief due to health concerns.

Marantan appeared before the Davao City council for an exit call. He also announced that he had submitted a request for relief with the PNP national headquarters on Friday, June 13, 2025.

Marantan also filed a leave of absence while awaiting the court’s decision.

LOS BAÑOS LAUNCH. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. kicks off the Kadiwa ng Pangulo and ‘Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!’ programs of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Bureau of Plant Industry compound in Los Baños, Laguna. Rice at P20 per kilo is available for the vulnerable sector— seniors, PWDs, solo parents, and 4Ps members. Jay Morales

No automatic fare hikes for LRT, MRT-3, says DOTr

By Charles Dantes

THE Department of Transportation

(DOTr) on Thursday assured the public that fares for LRT-2 and MRT-3 will remain under government control, even after the planned privatization of the two railway lines under a PublicPrivate Partnership (PPP) scheme.

“Privatization does not mean fares will automatically go up,” said Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon during a press briefing.

“The government will continue to regulate fare rates for LRT-2 and MRT-3, ensuring that commuters remain protected from unreasonable price hikes.”

The assurance comes amid growing concerns over the Marcos administration’s push to privatize operations and maintenance of the aging railway systems.

Dizon said the goal of the PPP is to improve efficiency and service quality, not to pass additional costs onto passengers.

The DOTr confirmed that the bidding process for LRT-2 will begin within the year, with technical assistance from the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation.

Meanwhile, the Asian Development Bank is supporting plans for MRT-3. Both projects are scheduled for rollout in 2025.

Dizon emphasized that existing government subsidies, such as fare discounts for students and the “1+3” transport program, will remain in place even after privatization, citing similar arrangements under the privately operated LRT-1.

NFA tightens rules on palay selling

By Othel V. Campos

THE National Food Authority (NFA) is implementing stricter procurement rules to ensure that only legitimate farmers—not traders—benefit from its palay (unhusked rice) buying program.

Under the new guidelines, only verified farmers, either registered in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) or certified by their local government unit, can sell palay to the NFA.

“This is to ensure that only legitimate farmers are selling to the NFA and to address allegations that traders are benefitting from the system. These reforms open the NFA’s procurement to public scrutiny,” said NFA Administrator Larry Lacson. NFA branches are now required to submit monthly reports listing the names of palay sellers and the quantities sold.

BLENDED LEARNING. Teachers at the Batasan National High School conduct blended learning classes. The school accommodates 12,864 students through a mix of online and in-person classes across eight core subjects. Manny Palmero

CSC issues guidelines to strengthen HIV, AIDS advocacy

THE Civil Service Commission (CSC) has directed all government agencies to establish and implement workplace policies on Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV and AIDS).

Through CSC Resolution No. 2500398, promulgated on May 23, 2025, the commission released enhanced guidelines for the implementation of HIV and AIDS workplace education and policy programs across the public sector.

The guidelines outline measures such as HIV and AIDS education, access to related services, promotion of occupational safety, and the enforcement of confidentiality and nondiscrimination for persons living with HIV and AIDS.

These reports will be posted on bulletin boards and, with the farmer’s consent, shared on official NFA Facebook pages in compliance with data privacy laws. Additional measures include pre- and post-delivery checks, designated observation areas for farmers’ groups at warehouses, and logging of all deliveries with detailed information for auditing and transparency.

IN BRIEF

Taho vendor in Baguio City returns bag with P150K cash

BAGUIO CITY—A taho vendor who found a bag containing P150,000 in cash and documents at the Lion’s Head tourist spot along Kennon Road chose to return it to its rightful owner without hesitation.

Manuelito Bonifacio, a father of three, earns a modest living selling taho at the landmark daily. He spotted the unattended bag during his rounds but only checked it after it remained unclaimed for over an hour.

Upon opening it, he found a large amount of money and documents with the owner’s contact details. Bonifacio reached out and promptly returned the bag with all items intact.

The vendor said he never considered keeping the money, believing that doing good brings good karma. “What was in my mind was to return it right away,” he said.

The bag’s owner later recovered it and offered Bonifacio a reward, which the taho vendor humbly declined. Dexter A. See

6 Pinays bound for Cambodia intercepted at Davao airport

SIX Filipino women bound for illegal work in Cambodian scam hubs were intercepted by Bureau of Immigration officers at the Davao International Airport.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the women posed as tourists on a Philippine Airlines flight to Singapore but had actually been recruited for scam jobs abroad.

The policy applies to all public employees, regardless of status, across national and local government units, state colleges and universities, and government-owned and controlled corporations.

Agencies must report their HIV-AIDS efforts annually to the PNAC.

Government offices are also encouraged to coordinate with the Department of Health and the Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC) to ensure employees receive accurate information and access to services including testing, treatment, care, and counseling.

Bishop warns faithful vs. ‘Catholic-like’ sect

By Vito Barcelo

A BISHOP from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has cautioned Catholics in Eastern Samar about a non-Catholic religious group mimicking Catholic rituals in several barangays across the province.

Bishop Crispin Varquez of Borongan issued a pastoral statement warning the faithful about the Apostolic Catholic Church (ACC), also known locally as Apostolika’t Katolikang Simbahan or Simbahang Apostolika Katolika. The group, founded in 1992 by John Florentine Teruel, is reportedly active in barangays Bato, Pinanag-an, and Baras in Borongan City, as well as in the municipality of Guiuan.

“While we respect their right to practice their religion, it is crucial that we remain steadfast in our Catholic identity,” Varquez said, noting that the ACC’s use of vestments similar to those of Catholic priests has caused confusion among parishioners.

The victims said they were contacted through Telegram and promised jobs as Customer Service Representatives. Each paid P50,000 to a recruiter and were given fake documents and return tickets.

Viado said these tactics suggest a well-organized human trafficking network continues to prey on vulnerable Filipinos with rehearsed schemes.

He urged the public to be cautious of job offers that bypass legal processes and reminded them to verify employment opportunities through legitimate channels. Vito Barcelo

Over

1,200

Bataan residents to benefit from TUPAD aid

A TOTAL of 1,260 residents from Dinalupihan and Mariveles in Bataan are set to benefit from the TUPAD emergency employment program, thanks to the initiative of Bataan 3rd District Representative Gila Garcia. Separate orientations were held on June 19—one in Dinalupihan Civic Center for 875 workers, and another in Mariveles for 385 participants.

Garcia’s “Trash to Cash Back” project was also launched during the events. It ties environmental protection into the TUPAD program by encouraging proper waste management as part of temporary livelihood. Town and barangay officials, along with representatives from DOLE, PESO, and MENRO, attended the activities to show support for the initiative.

The TUPAD program aims to provide immediate work to displaced and disadvantaged individuals while fostering community development. Butch Gunio

SAN ANDRES FIRE. Firefighters extinguish a blaze that broke out in a residential area made of light materials at the corner of Dagonoy and Nickel Streets in San Andres Bukid, Manila. No deaths or injuries were reported in the incident. Norman Cruz

Makati students get hygiene kits

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Makati City government is giving away hygiene and better healthcare kits, along with vacuum-insulated flasks, to public school students in the city.

A total of 32,874 health kits and vacuum-insulated flasks were being distributed to students across all grade levels, from kindergarten to senior high school, including those in the Special Education (SPED) program. Each kit contains a mosquito patch,

Comelec okays proclamation of Marikina solon

By Ram Superable

THE Commission on Elections

(Comelec) on Thursday lifted its suspension order on the proclamation of former Marikina City Mayor Marcelino ‘Marcy’ Teodoro, thus reinstating him as the duly elected representative of city’s first district.

Teodoro mustered 75,062 votes or 72.07 percent in a landslide victory against his main challenger, outgoing Senator Aquilino Pimentel III, in the recently concluded midterm elections.

Pimentel and three others contested Teodoro’s victory before the Comelec.

Pimentel said he will elevate his appeal to the Supreme Court.

“The very important legal and constitutional issue in that controversy will have to be raised before the Supreme Court. They all know they did something very special in that case, which took them six months to cook,” Pimentel said.

He criticized the Comelec for taking nearly 200 days to reach a final decision, which he said undermined the entire electoral process.

He argued that the delay deprived voters of clarity and allowed a candidate to run with unresolved disqualification issues.

two bars of soap, two towels, two toothbrushes, toothpaste, a bottle of alcohol, hand sanitizer, a cooling patch, povidone throat spray, and a mini fan.

“These kits will help students maintain good hygiene and stay protected against common illnesses, especially

as the school year begins and the rainy season approaches,” said Mayor Abigail Binay who led the ceremonial distribution at Makati High School last Tuesday.

In addition to the kits, students will receive a vacuum-insulated flask for water or juice, promoting hydration throughout the day.

Mayor Binay emphasized the importance of student well-being for academic success. “We want our students to stay healthy, safe, and ready to learn. These simple yet essential items can

significantly help our learners focus in school without worrying about their basic needs.”

She said the city’s education and healthcare initiatives reflected Makati’s strong commitment to the well-being of its students.

As part of Project FREE (Free Relevant and Excellent Education), these new provisions aim to promote clean, safe, and supportive learning environments, ensuring that every Makatizen learner remains healthy, protected, and prepared to succeed in school.

CRACKDOWN VS. ABUSIVE CABBIES.

Airport authorities go after abusive taxi drivers who overcharge their passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport complex.

IN BRIEF

PH, Malaysian armies tackle regional security

THE Philippines and Malaysian militaries on Wednesday met in Manila to tackle regional security and mutual interests in national defense.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and Admiral Datuk Zulhelmy Bin Ithnain of the Royal Malaysian Navy engaged in a constructive discussion on regional security, interoperability, and mutual interests in maintaining peace and stability in Southeast Asia.

Brawner expressed appreciation for the continued collaboration between the two countries’ naval forces.

“The courtesy call reflects the shared commitment of the Philippines and Malaysia to uphold strong defense relations and promote cooperation in addressing common maritime challenges.” the AFP said. Rex Espiritu

CHR launches study on Muslim women

THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Thursday launched a “ground-breaking publication” that brings to the forefront the living experiences of Muslim and Moro women in the Philippines.

The Human Rights Policy Centers Office-Center for Gender Equality and Women’s Human Rights spearheaded the launch of the publication entitled “Beyond the Veils of Resilience: Voices of Filipino-Muslim Women.”

The study collated data from focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and community forums conducted across Regions 9, Region 10, and the National Capital Region.

The efforts served as the foundation for a comprehensive assessment of the conditions faced by Muslim women and their communities. Rio N. Araja

Cops nab Triad crime ring member in Manila

A CHINESE national believed to be a member of the notorious Chinese crime syndicate Triad was arrested by elements of the Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG), involved in an entrapment operation conducted Wednesday, June 25, 2025 in Ermita, Manila.

The apprehension stemmed from information about a sports utility vehicle being offered for sale by a foreigner.

Subsequent verification through the Vehicle Information Management System (VIMS) confirmed that the vehicle was included in a hold order list.

The arresting team said the suspect had found was in possession of illegal drugs and unlicensed firearms, when he was taken in custody. Vince Lopez

Legarda cites PH studies program to reach out across the globe

SENATOR Loren Legarda has emphasized the crucial role of the Philippine Studies Program in fostering stronger global connections and elevating the country's voice in the international community.

Speaking at the launch of a book on the Philippine Studies Program, Legarda underscored that diplomacy does

not begin in embassies, but in libraries, classrooms, and simple acts of curiosity.

“And it taught me this: no matter how vast the world may seem, we shape one another. Our narratives intersect, and in these crossings, we discover deeper ways of speaking and listening,” Legarda said.

The senator, known for championing culture and education, shared that it is

Crackdown vs. overcharging taxis at NAIA

By Joel E. Zurbano

AT LEAST 11 public transport vehicles were apprehended in a continuing crackdown on drivers and operators who overcharge passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

A joint task force from the Philippine National Police -Aviation Security Group (PNP-Avsegroup), the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) conducted simultaneous operations that resulted in the apprehension of several public utility vehicles, including taxis.

The drivers of these vehicles were apprehended for illegally contracting passengers and violating franchise regulations within the NAIA premises.

Authorities have intensified law enforcement at the NAIA following a viral video showing a taxi

driver overcharging a passenger, raising public concerns over abusive transport practices at the airport.

The violations committed by the drivers fall under the provisions of Joint Administrative Order (JAO) 2014-01 which imposes a penalty of P5,000 for the first offense.

The apprehended drivers and their respective franchises are now undergoing evaluation, with a view to imposing appropriate administrative penalties based on the nature and frequency of the infractions.

Avsegroup acting director Brig. Gen. Jason Capoy said the success of crackdown operation was due to the assistance of the MIAA under general manager Eric Jose Ines; the New NAIA Infra Corp. under general manager Angelito Alvarez; and the Office for Transportation Security under the supervision of administrator Arthur Bisnar, along with other airport authorities.

conviction that inspired her to promote a form of diplomacy that uses the power of storytelling which actually is cultural diplomacy.

“In a world so fractured by uncertainty, we are reminded—now more than ever—that the strongest bridges are built through understanding,” Legarda said.

The Philippines takes another step, serving as the Guest of Honour at the Frankfurt Book Fair this year, making it the second Southeast Asian country to be named as such, she added.

The Philippine Studies program was established in collaboration with the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London in 2017.

HYGIENE KITS FOR MAKATI STUDENTS. Close to 33,000 public school students in Makati have received hygiene healthcare kits and drinking flasks, courtesy of the city government under Mayor Abigail Binay.

Photo by PNP Avsegroup

OPINION

Back to the ICC?

WILL the Philippines rejoin the International Criminal Court or ICC?

This possibility is not remote at all with the recent recommendation by the United Nations special rapporteur Irene Khan for the Philippine government to do just that, and ratify as well the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance.

“Both instruments would significantly enhance human rights protection and support the enjoyment of the right to freedom of expression,” Khan said in a report she presented to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, recently. Given the persistence of enforced disappearances, unlawful killings and impunity in the country, her suggestion merits serious consideration by the Marcos Jr. administration.

Malacañang has said President Marcos is “open” to discussing the possibility of rejoining the ICC now that the Philippine government has already caused the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte and sent him to the ICC in The Hague for trial for crimes against humanity. j Even though he voted to ratify the Rome Treaty that established the ICC in August 2011 when he was still a senator, President Marcos Jr. had repeatedly maintained the government would not cooperate with its investigation of alleged human rights violations in the drug war after the country’s withdrawal from the Rome treaty on then President Duterte’s order which took effect in 2019. But the Marcos Jr. administration’s move in early March to have ex-president Duterte arrested and sent to The Hague could pave the way for the eventual return of the country to the ICC.

The Philippines was obliged to cooperate with the International Criminal Police Organization after the ICC asked for help in serving an arrest warrant on Duterte and others charged with enforcing his violent antinarcotics campaign.

Khan visited the Philippines in early 2024 where she met with national and local government officials, representatives of various civil society organizations, as well as journalists and media workers.

She said the country was “privileged” to have civil society and media sectors that were “active in all regions and working in different dialects” while serving as an “intermediary” between the State and the public.

Khan noted, however, that Red-tagging remained a “serious threat” against civil society, with the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict

(NTF-Elcac) acting as the main instigator.

“Although the government has sought to reassure the Special Rapporteur that it does not undertake, encourage or condone such practices, there is considerable evidence that Red-tagging is being used by the security forces as part of their strategy to counter terrorism,” her report said.

During the first half of 2024, more than 450 Red-tagging incidents were recorded, 17 percent of which targeted young people and 61 percent were attributed to government actors, according to data from the Ateneo Human Rights Center.

Malacañang has said President Marcos is ‘open’ to discussing the possibility of rejoining the ICC

“It is clear that such vilification is aimed not only at those who are allegedly associated with proscribed or listed organizations, but also at legitimate activists and activities, sowing distrust between the State, communities and civil society,” Khan noted.

The practice of Red-tagging is “often followed or accompanied by unlawful surveillance, criminal prosecution, including the filing of trumped-up charges, threats and even killings,” she reported, adding that such actions seek to suppress legitimate activism and undermine independent journalism.

Her conclusion: the Philippines is still a “dangerous country” for journalists, despite the lower number of attacks against the press under the Marcos administration.

Data from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization showed that 117 journalists were killed in the Philippines in the past 30 years, yet only 10 cases were resolved.

“Since June 2022, the government has taken some measures to end the horrendous attacks on human rights by the previous administration, especially on freedom of expression, but they have not been enough to turn the page decisively on the past,” Khan conceded.

But, she pointed out, “the Government must embark on more significant legal, policy and institutional changes to demonstrate its commitment to freedom of expression.”

We agree completely.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Peace and justice in

RECENT events – the killing of Davie Ugking, a Lumad farmer in Surigao, and the murder of Ali Macalintal, a trans woman journalist and human rights advocate in General Santos – have once again highlighted the importance of achieving peace and justice in Mindanao.

In this regard, the Council of Leaders for Peace Initiatives (CLPI), with the Citizens Alliance for Just Peace (CAJP), organized the “People’s Initiative and Solidarity Towards Kalinaw,” a Mindanao-wide peace conference, in Cagayan de Oro, on June 24, 2025, to listen to and support the people of Mindanao in their call for a just peace.

As spokesperson for CLPI, I echo our statement released during the conference:

“Mindanao, with its rich cultural diversity and resilient communities, stands at a pivotal juncture in its quest for social justice and lasting peace. It is imperative that all concerned collaborate to address historical grievances, promote genuine development, and ensure equitable opportunities for all.

“A just peace requires respect for the Lumad — the indigenous peoples in Mindanao —their right to their ancestral domain and unique cultural identities, traditions, and ways of life. Ensuring their rights to land, self-determination, education, and safety is vital in addressing historical marginalization and preventing discrimination.

“In this regard, we condemn the continuing development aggression and

MindaNow!

militarization in Lumad areas. We appeal for the reopening of Lumad schools set up by NGOs and the religious that have been closed down by government using red-tagging as justification. Hundreds of lumad students have thus been deprived of their only opportunity to have formal education.

Mindanao, with its rich cultural diversity and resilient communities, stands at a pivotal juncture in its quest for social justice and lasting peace

“We continue to demand justice for the victims of Martial Law in Mindanao, the more than 350,000 people displaced during the five-month aerial bombardment in Marawi, the missing and the dead, and the 30,000 families who remain displaced.

“We also call for just compensation especially as the ongoing rehabilitation efforts fail to prioritize the reconstruction of destroyed houses in the community.

“Red-tagging is anathema to a just peace. It must be stopped immediately, as it threatens the safety, security, and human rights of social activists, community

EDITORIAL

Is the Ombudsman

serious in probe of VP Sara?

LAST week, the Office of the Ombudsman ordered Vice President Sara Duterte and nine others from the Department of Education and the Office of the Vice President to respond to charges filed by the House of Representatives related to the alleged misuse of confidential funds.

Duterte and the other respondents were given 10 days upon receiving the order to file their counter-affidavit.

These must be filed with the affidavits of their witnesses, as well as other supporting documents.

“Failure to file counter-affidavit within the aforesaid period shall be deemed as a waiver of respondents’ right to submit controverting evidence, and the preliminary investigation shall proceed accordingly,” the order read.

The Ombudsman emphasized it would not entertain any motion to dismiss or motion for bill of particulars.

The order followed a House complaint against the Vice President and others earlier this week for technical malversation, falsification, use of falsified documents, perjury, bribery, corruption of public officers, plunder, and betrayal of public trust and culpable

leaders, and innocent civilians.

“This practice unjustly labels individuals and groups as so-called “communistterrorists” without credible evidence, fueling fear and intimidation within communities. It often leads to harassment, illegal arrest and detention, or even extrajudicial killings.

“We reiterate the demand for the abolition of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, which has been associated with red-tagging practices, and has been misused to justify human rights violations.

“Abolishing NTF-ELCAC is crucial to fostering an environment where genuine development and peace can thrive without fear of repression or violence.

“We also support the call for the repeal of the Anti-Terror Law and Anti-Terror Financing Act that has been weaponized and misused against Mindanao develop-

violation of the Constitution.

That’s a whole raft of serious charges against Vice President Sara Duterte that would make her face jail time if she is found guilty.

How would this affect the verdict of the Senate impeachment court?

That would be in contrast with the Senate impeachment trial where she would only be removed from office and face perpetual disqualification from public office if convicted by twothirds of the members of the impeachment court.

ment and activist organizations.

“Ensuring that those responsible for corruption and human rights violations are held accountable is essential in building a just society where everyone’s rights are protected and respected. This is especially relevant in the context of highprofile cases such as the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

“We also recognize that climate justice is an essential component of peace in Mindanao because the region is increasingly vulnerable to the devastating impacts of climate change, such as typhoons, floods, and droughts.

“By integrating climate justice into peace initiatives, the people of Mindanao can work towards a more equitable and sustainable future.

“We support the peace agreements between the government and the MNLF (Moro National Liberation Front) and the

But wait.

There are questions being raised as to the propriety of the Ombudsman conducting a probe of the alleged misuse by the Office of the Vice President at this time when the Senate impeachment trial is also targeted to commence by July once the 20th Congress starts its sessions.

While the Ombudsman probe will result in the filing of charges before the Sandiganbayan, what if it results in the dismissal of the charges against the Vice President?

And how would this affect the verdict of the Senate impeachment court? It is feared that if the Ombudsman dismisses the charges against the Vice President for one reason or another, this could pull the rug from under the feet of the Senate impeachment court and give the senator-judges ample reason to similarly dismiss outright the impeachment complaint against her. Or could it be possibly part of the playbook of the pro-Duterte forces to use the Ombudsman—who after all was appointed to his former position as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court by then President Rodrigo Duterte – to have the serious cases against her to be dismissed so she can be a formidable candidate for the highest elective position in 2028?

MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) as vital for achieving lasting stability in Mindanao. When faithfully executed, these agreements can lead to prioritized development, meaningful participation in governance, and social cohesion.

“We support the resumption of peace negotiations between the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, as envisioned in the Joint Oslo Statement of Nov. 2023.

“Such negotiations are an imperative for achieving genuine peace and justice in the country.

VThey offer a constructive platform to address underlying issues such as social inequality, land rights, and political marginalization that have fueled decades of conflict in Mindanao and the rest of the country.”

Website: tonylavina.com Facebook: tonylavs X and Bluesky: tonylavs

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in horizontal format in traditional pen and ink with watercolor tints. A sinister

Zelenskyy urges trial for Putin

STRASBOURG, France – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said close ties between Europe and the United States under Donald Trump were key to ensuring Kyiv defeated the Russian invasion, as he urged a trial for President Vladimir Putin.

Zelenskyy signed an accord with the Council of Europe to set up a special tribunal to try top officials over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, as he made his first visit since the start of the conflict to the Francebased rights body.

But after a face-to-face meeting with Trump earlier during the day at the NATO

summit in The Hague, Zelenskyy made an impassioned call for close ties between Europe and the US president.

“We need a strong connection with him (Trump),” Zelensky, who had a public spat with the American leader in the Oval Office earlier this year, told the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

“We need unity between Europe and the United States and we will prevail,” Zelensky said, adding: “We need unity in Europe first of all.”

The special tribunal would prosecute the “crime of aggression” in the full-scale invasion, which Russia launched in February 2022, and could, in theory, try senior figures up to Putin.

“We need to show clearly aggression leads to punishment and we must make it happen together, all of Europe,” said Zelensky after signing the accord with Council of Europe secretary general Alain Berset.

“There is still a long way to go. Justice takes time but it must happen,” he added, saying the accord is a “real chance to bring

justice for the crime of aggression”.

“It will take strong political and legal courage to make sure every Russian war criminal faces justice, including Putin,” Zelenskyy said. Berset said the next step to set up the tribunal, which the Council of Europe hopes could start work next year, would be an enlarged agreement to “allow the widest possible number of countries to join, to support, and to help manage the tribunal”.

It has not yet been decided where the tribunal would be based but Zelensky said The Hague would be “perfect”.

“International law must apply to all, with no exceptions and no double standards,” said Berset. AFP

Trial of Sean Combs heads into separate closing arguments

NEW YORK – After weeks of painstaking testimony in the high-profile trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs, legal teams will enter a pivotal moment of the proceedings Thursday as they deliver closing arguments.

Both sides have said their climactic summations will last several hours each, as the fate of the once-powerful music mogul hangs in the balance. Prosecutors say Combs, 55, masterminded a decades-long pattern of wrongdoing that saw him and an inner circle of employees carry out crimes including forced labor, arson, bribery and witness tampering.

The famed producer coerced two women -- the singer Casandra Ventura and later a woman who testified under the pseudonym Jane -- into years of drug-addled sex with paid escorts, prosecutors say.

The most serious charge of racketeering -- which includes the existence of a criminal enterprise that committed a pattern of offenses -- could send Combs to prison for life. He also faces two charges of sex trafficking and two more for transportation for purposes of prostitution.

But Combs denies it all: his lawyers have argued the artist’s relationships were consensual and have sought to convince jurors that many of the witnesses who testified were doing so for reasons including financial gain or jealousy.

Along with alleged victims, government witnesses included former assistants and other employees, as well as escorts, friends and family of Ventura, and a hotel security guard who said he was bribed with $100,000 in a paper bag.

Law enforcement officials and a forensic psychologist were also among the 34 individuals to take the stand. AFP

Myanmar junta chief confirms year-end poll

YANGON – Myanmar’s junta chief said the country plans to hold elections in December and January, state media reported Thursday, pressing ahead with polls denounced as a sham by international monitors. The military deposed Myanmar’s civilian government in a 2021 coup which sparked a many-sided civil war, but has promoted its election plans as a pathway to peace. With members of the former government locked away, opposition groups set to boycott the vote and huge tracts of the country controlled by anti-junta rebels, observers say a fair poll is impossible.

‘NO DOUBLE STANDARDS.’ Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addresses members of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe following the signing of an agreement for establishing a special tribunal to try top officials responsible for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, eastern France, on Wednesday. The 46-member Council of Europe is not part of the EU and members include key non-EU European states such as Turkey, the UK and Ukraine. Russia was expelled following its invasion of Ukraine.AFP

UN Charter: Founding document violated, ignored

UNITED NATIONS, New York – Eighty years ago Thursday (Friday in Manila), 50 countries came together in the ashes of World War II to sign the United Nations’ founding charter in order “to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war.”

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres insisted this week the Charter “is a promise of peace, dignity and cooperation among nations.”

But critics say the organization has been utterly helpless in stopping the countless conflicts that have broken out since and

continue around the globe today.

Here is a look at the UN Charter’s history. Conceived in the early years of World War II and signed on June 26, 1945 in San Francisco, the charter paved the way for the creation of the United Nations on October 24, 1945.

In 19 chapters and 111 articles, the Charter lays out the principles of international relations, including the peaceful settlement of disputes, sovereignty and equality between states, humanitarian cooperation, and respect for human

rights. If there is a threat to global peace, Chapter VII gives the UN Security Council the power to impose sanctions to enforce its decisions or even deploy military force.

The Charter, which is very difficult to amend, also establishes the Security Council, with its five veto-wielding permanent members, the General Assembly and the Secretariat, as well as the International Court of Justice.

The United Nations currently has 193 member states. AFP

Hundreds

of

earthquakes rattle Japanese island chain in south

than 470

– A

by

since

the national weather agency said on Thursday, calling for residents to stay alert. No major damage has been reported from the series of quakes with a strength of at least one -- slightly perceptible to people seated quietly indoors -- on Japan’s seven-point seismic intensity scale. As of Thursday morning, 474 such earthquakes had been observed around the Tokara island chain, south of Kyushu, the Japan Meteorological Agency said.

“Seismic activity has increased. As this region has experienced extended periods of earthquake activity in the past, please be vigilant against earthquakes that cause strong shaking,” it said in a statement. The largest tremors recorded since Saturday were two magnitude-5.1 quakes, one on Sunday and one on Tuesday. They had a seismic intensity of four on the Japanese scale -- described as an earthquake in which “most people are startled”, dishes rattle and “hanging objects such as lamps swing significantly”. AFP

State newspaper The Global New Light of Myanmar said junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, speaking at a conference in the capital Naypyidaw on Wednesday, “pledged that the election will be held in December this year and January next year”. It is not clear whether the junta plans to hold the election in phases -- a potential sign it would struggle to guarantee security on a single nationwide polling day -- or whether the timetable includes a campaign period. On Wednesday, the United Nations’ special rapporteur on the rights situation in Myanmar, Tom Andrews, said the junta is “trying to create this mirage of an election exercise that will create a legitimate civilian government”.

“You cannot have an election when you imprison and torture and execute your opponents, when it is illegal to report the truth as a journalist, when it’s illegal to speak out and criticise the junta,” he told reporters in Geneva.

Junta forces have suffered stinging territorial losses to pro-democracy guerrillas and powerful ethnic armed organizations in recent months. AFP

Man, 50 years on death row, executed

WASHINGTON, DC – A Mississippi man who had been on death row for nearly 50 years was executed by lethal injection on Wednesday (Thursday Manila time), one of two executions in the United States this week. Richard Jordan, 79, was convicted in 1976 of the murder of Edwina Marter, the wife of a bank executive in the town of Gulfport.

There have been 25 executions in the United States this year: 20 by lethal injection, two by firing squad and three by nitrogen hypoxia, which involves pumping nitrogen gas into a face mask, causing the prisoner to suffocate. Jordan, a shipyard worker, kidnapped Marter from her home and demanded a $25,000 ransom.

He was apprehended when he went to pick up the money. Jordan confessed to murdering Marter and led the authorities to her body, which had been hidden in a forest. She had been shot. AFP

Ecuador’s most-wanted gang leader captured

QUITO – Ecuador’s president announced Wednesday that the country’s most-wanted fugitive, Los Choneros gang leader “Fito,” had been re-captured over a year after he escaped from prison, triggering a wave of violence.

“We have done our part to proceed with Fito’s extradition to the United States, we are awaiting their response,” Daniel Noboa wrote on X. Jose Adolfo Macias Villamar, known as Fito, escaped custody in Ecuador in early 2024 and American prosecutors charged him, in absentia, with seven counts of cocaine distribution, conspiracy and firearms-related crimes, including weapons smuggling.

At the time of his escape, Macias Villamar was also considered a suspect in ordering the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, who was shot in Quito in August 2023. AFP

Vaccine panel targets childhood vaccinations

WASHINGTON, DC – A medical panel appointed by US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. held its first meeting Wednesday (Thursday Manila time), pledging to revisit the childhood vaccine schedule and promoting themes long embraced by anti-vaccine activists. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, an independent group that reviews scientific evidence to determine who should receive vaccines and when, rarely draws headlines.

But that changed after Kennedy -- who spent decades spreading vaccine misinformation before becoming President Donald Trump’s top health official -abruptly fired all 17 sitting members earlier this month, accusing them of industry conflicts of interest. He replaced them with eight new appointees, including scientist Robert Malone, known for promoting false claims during the Covid-19 pandemic. AFP

IMPUNITY REIGNS. António Guterres, UN Secretary-General, speaks during a UN Security Council meeting on threats to international peace and security at the United Nations headquarters the other day in Washington, DC. The Security Council was holding an emergency session to address the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. The meeting was requested by Iran and backed by Algeria, China, Pakistan, and Russia. The United Nations has called for an immediate de-escalation and ceasefire. AFP

Trail Blazers pick China’s Yang in NBA draft 1st-round surprise

NEW YORK—

Birthday boy

Yang Hansen is headed to the Portland Trail Blazers as the 16th overall selection in the NBA draft, just the third Chinese player ever chosen in the first round.

The 7ft 2in (2.18m) center, who made his Chinese Basketball Association debut in 2023 and was an All-Star in each of his first two seasons with the Qingdao Eagles, had been tipped as a second-round pick.

That was even after his stock had risen after a promising performance at the NBA draft combine, where some of his passes had earned comparisons to the Denver Nuggets’ Serbian star Nikola Jokic -- a three-time NBA Most Valuable Player.

He had individual workouts with 11 teams, including the Trail Blazers who, after swapping the 11th and 16th draft selections with the Memphis Grizzlies, grabbed Yang on Wednesday.

“The Blazers had scouts scouting me in China the last couple years,” Yang said.

“I also had a pre-workout with them last month. Everything went very well and I got along with all the front-office people.

“But at the end of the day, this is sort of beyond my wildest imagination.”

Icon Yao Ming, who was the number one selection in 2002, and Yi Jianlian -- who was sixth overall in 2007 -- are the only other Chinese players chosen in the first round of the draft.

It made for a sensational birthday for Yang, who turned 20 on Thursday. Not included among the likely first-round prospects and given a place in the near-stage waiting room, he clambered down from the stands dressed in a white suit to shake NBA commissioner Adam Silver’s hand.

Yang said that after the 15th selection had been announced he noticed more cameras on him.

“I just thought something was off or thought something was about to happen. So that’s when I found out,” Yang said.

But it wasn’t a coincidence that he was in the stands to see the

SBP partners with Gatorade in search of cage talents

league’s 30 teams make their firstround selections. Despite the pundits’ predictions, he was confident he could be among them.

“I was expecting to be selected at the end of the first round,” he said.

“So this is definitely a big surprise for me to be selected in the middle of the first round.” AFP

PNB Allianz adds Criss Cross to list of supported volley teams

By Peter Atencio

THE Criss Cross King Crunchers are back to training early, with coach Tai Bundit once again calling the shots. This in preparation for the King Crunchers’ campaign in the Spikers’ Turf this October.

“We’re getting ready for the tournament this October. Training has started early,” said team manager Lizanne Co.

The Criss Cross King Crunchers will be supported in their campaign by PNB Allianz, the same same global insurance brand that has backed the Creamline Cool Smashers and the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, their sister teams in the past few years.

The squad will once again have team captain Ysay Marasigan, Ish Polvorosa, Rex Intal, Chu Njigha, Kim Malabunga, Vince Mangulabnan, Manuel Sumanguid III and Marck Espejo.

But for now, Espejo and Malabunga

in the FIVB Men’s World Championships. On Thursday, Allianz PNB Life

welcomed Criss Cross to its roster of supported teams following a signing ceremony at the Valle Verde Country Club in Pasig.

“This partnership with Rebisco is built on our shared values of discipline, resilience, and wellness. By adding Criss Cross King Crunchers, we’re extending our reach and deepening our impact in the Philippine sports community,” said Joe Gross, President and CEO of Allianz PNB Life, in a statement.

In the coming conference, Allianz made commitment to provide incentives for Rebisco players who win individual awards in every conference of the Premier Volleyball League and the Spikers’ Turf.

The company will also support Rebisco’s grassroots’ volleyball program, the Rebisco Volleyball League (RVL).

“Rebisco and Allianz share the belief that sports is a powerful force for transformation. Together, we fully support the continued development and popularity of volleyball among Filipinos,” said Jonathan Ng, Vice Chairman and CEO of Rebisco.

LG, PBA star Tenorio bring championship energy to laundry business

LG Electronics Philippines has teamed up with PBA icon LA Tenorio to power his laundry business with LG Commercial Laundry System.

Tenorio hopes that through the partnership, those at a similar stage in life can see starting a laundry business as a worthwhile investment for the future, too.

LA’s hustle doesn’t stop when the game ends. As someone who thinks steps ahead and focuses on consistent growth, he’s taken on new roles, like mentoring as the coach for Gilas Youth and investing in a new business. For LA, starting his own laundry business was a practical choice. It’s a steady service that meets everyday needs and offers long-term potential. Choosing LG Commercial Laundry System was a decision built on performance, innovation, and reliability, values that have defined his journey as an athlete and now fuel his drive as a budding entrepreneur.

“As an athlete, I learned to value great performance and consistency, so when it came to business, naturally I knew I needed a partner that is proven to consistently deliver top performance and that’s exactly what

LG is,” said LA, talking about LG’s excellent technology. “LG is a trusted brand worldwide. You get top-notch quality while saving on energy, time, and effort. LG Commercial Washers are built to last, and that kind of reliability is important when you’re starting a business.”

LG Commercial Washing Machines aren’t just your everyday washers, they’re the ultimate gamechangers for any laundry business! Thanks to inverter technology, they help shop owners save big on energy and water, offer durable high-performance builds for heavy usage, and provide easy-access servicing to keep businesses running smoothly.

Launching his own laundry business isn’t just a personal milestone, it’s a way to inspire others to think ahead. Whether it’s planning for retirement or exploring new income opportunities, he encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to make smart choices and partner with trusted brands like LG. “If you’re thinking of starting your own business, especially in the laundry industry, LG is the way to go,” LA shared. “You can count on LG for top-tier per-

like a champ and delivers consistent results every

time. It’s a smart choice that sets you up for long-term success.” This dynamic team-up between LG Electronics Philippines and LA Tenorio shows that real success goes beyond the court.

THE Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) is proud to announce a new partnership with Gatorade in support of its Talent Identification and Development Program and Coaches Academy. “We are thrilled to collaborate with a globally respected brand like Gatorade,” said SBP Executive Director Erika Dy. “Beyond providing essential hydration, Gatorade brings a wealth of expertise in sports science and athlete performance. This partnership allows us to tap into their knowledge and best practices, which will greatly benefit our programs and the broader basketball community.”

As part of the partnership, Gatorade will integrate hydration and performance education into both the Talent Identification and Development Program and the Coaches Academy. In addition, Gatorade will provide strategic support and resources to help enhance the reach and impact of these initiatives. The brand will also serve as the exclusive sports drink of the SBP’s Grassroots Development Program. The Talent Identification and Development Program is headed by Coach Norman Black and is open to both boys and girls in the U16 age group. Several free camps are scheduled around the country across our different regions every year.

The Coaches Academy is headed by Coach Jong Uichico and it aims to equip coaches for different levels of basketball training and strategizing. The coaches under the program are also accredited by the SBP.

NBA, Silver studying rise in tendon injuries

NEW YORK NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Wednesday the league is studying a rash of recent Achilles tendon injuries, days after Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton became the latest player to be hobbled by such an injury in game seven of the NBA Finals.

Silver, speaking to ESPN before the start of the NBA draft at the Brooklyn Nets’ Barclays Center arena, said that there was no convincing evidence that the length of the NBA season was a factor, but that a range of causes are being studied.

“We are looking at it,” Silver said, “and in fact, we had already convened a panel of experts before Tyrese’s most recent Achilles rupture.

“So we had seven this year,” he added. “We had zero last year under the exact same circumstances.”

He said the NFL had had a rash of Achilles injuries as well, and the purpose of convening the panel of experts “is to try to figure out what’s going on.” Haliburton was already playing with a sore calf when he was stricken in the title-deciding game seven against the Oklahoma City Thunder, who claimed their first title since moving to Oklahoma in 2008.

The 25-year-old had surgery on Monday and is at risk of missing the entire 2025-26 campaign.

Haliburton was the third player to suffer a torn Achilles in this post-season, after Boston’s Jayson Tatum and Milwaukee’s Damian Lillard.

Critics point to the grueling 82-game regular season, but Silver said the most important thing was to try to find a pattern.

Adam Silver poses with Yang Hansen after he was drafted 16th overall overall by the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2025 NBA Draft - Round One at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. AFP

Coach Norman Black

Shown here are (from left) Shane Conferido-Labrador (Allianz PNB Life Head of Brand), Gino Riola (Allianz PNB Life Chief Marketing O cer), Jonathan Ng, Joe Gross (Allianz PNB Life President & CEO), Alyssa Valdez, Desiree Cheng and Ysay Marasigan. will focus on national team duties for its coming stint

Shown here are (from left) Jun Lee, LG Philippines Product Director for Home Solutions, LA Tenorio and Nakhyun Seong, LG Philippines Managing Director) formance and exceptional efficiency. The LG Commercial Laundry System gives you high-quality machines and expert business support to help you succeed. It cleans

FRIDAY, JUNE 27, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst.

Huskers maul Patriots by 28

QUEZON Province had a smooth ride, while Batangas and Basilan experienced some bumps on their way to victories in Manny Pacquiao presents 1xBet-MPBL 2025 Season on Wednesday at the Alonte Sports Arena in Binan, Laguna.

The Quezon Huskers battered the Paranaque Patriots by 28 points, 9668, in the second game and climbed to fifth spot in the round-robin elimination phase of the 30-team tournament with a 13-3 record.

Quezon, the reigning South Division champion, trails unbeaten Nueva Ecija (16-0), Abra (15-1), San Juan (14-1) and Zamboanga (14-3) in the chase for playoff berths.

The Batangas City Tanduay Rum Masters sustained their recovery with a 74-68 tripping of Binan Tatak Gel in the nightcap, following Basilan Starhorse’s 84-70 conquest of Bataan in the opener.

Basilan banked on Arwind Santos and Emman Calo in the fourth quarter to level its slate at 8-8 and pull down Bataan to 6-12.

Batangas, powered by Levi Hernandez’s 21 points and Jong Baloria’s 12, notched its third straight win and improved to 10-7.

Mark Niel Cruz provided support with 11 and 10 points, respectively, for Batangas, which led 72-63 at the most.

Binan, which absorbed its third straight defeat and dropped to 9-7, got 13 points from Kenney Roger Rocacurva, 10 points and 8 rebounds from Marc Pingris, and 10 points and 6 rebounds from Michael Maestre.

Gearing up in the second half, the Huskers employed their full 15-man roster, headed by LJ Gonzales and Ximone Sandagon.

Gonzales posted 19 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals, while Sandagon tallied 14 points, 10 rebounds and 2 blocks as the Huskers led as far as 96-65.

Paranaque fell to 1-15 despite James Mangahas’ 21-points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists, Paolo Castro’s 17 poinys and 2 rebounds, and MJ Homo’s 13 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals.

Santos fired 11 of his 15 points, and Calo seven of his nine in the last quarter as Basilan pulled away, 73-54.

Counting his four rebounds and 2 assists, Santos was given best player honors over fellow veteran Alex Cabagnot, who posted 16 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals; James Tempra with 11 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals; and Adi Santos with 11 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists.

Yasay, Mallari lead PH’s

haul at Asian Muaythai

By Randy M. Caluag

LJ Rafael Yasay shone brightest in both the forms and combat events to clinch two gold medals, powering the Philippines to a strong showing at the recent Asian Muaythai Championships held in Vietnam.

Yasay captured the country’s first gold medal of the tournament after defeating Vietnam’s Ly Dieu Phuoc, 30-27, in the U23 male-51 kg final on the first day.

He followed it up the next day with another dominant performance in the Wai Kru U23 division, where his routine impressed judges with its explosive energy, flawless execution, and deep respect for the cultural roots of Muaythai.

His teammate Kylie Mallari also claimed two golds, ruling the U23 female mai muay event, alongside partner Rhichein Yosorez with a 9.26-point routine, and then securing the solo wai kru title with another commanding performance.

The national Muaythai team wrapped up the

Baroquillo’s ace, Barnes’ breakout lead charge

BUKIDNON—Wire-to-wire victories defined the battle for supremacy in two age divisions of the ICTSI Del Monte Junior PGT Championship, with frontrunners from Davao and Cagayan de Oro splitting top honors with two titles apiece here on Thursday.

Davao’s Soleil Molde and Kimberly Baroquillo turned in dominant performances in the girls’ 7-10 and 11-14 divisions, respectively, in their 36-hole showdowns. Baroquillo punctuated her dominant campaign with a hole-in-one on No. 12 of the Del Monte Golf Club.

On the boys’ side, CDO’s Jamie Barnes and Ken Guillermo emerged triumphant in the same age brackets, dashing the hopes of local bets and keeping the homegrown talents winless in the kickoff leg of the four-stage Mindanao swing of the Visayas-Mindanao Series.

Baroquillo displayed remarkable consistency, firing a second straight 73 for a 146 total, four strokes ahead of Mactan leg winner Britanny Tamayo, who posted another 75 for a 150. CDO’s Isabella Espina placed third with a 168 after an 87.

“I really aimed for the right side, going against my caddie’s advice to hit it straight,” recalled 13-year-old Kimberly Baroquillo of her hole-in-one. “It landed on the right and rolled straight into the hole.”

She used a TaylorMade 7-iron to ace the 147-yard No. 12, with her remarkable feat earning her a certificate and ₱10,000 in cash courtesy of Del Monte Golf Club.

CLAIRE Wenizah Vinoya prevailed with enough to spare while Rush Camingao had to sprint his way to victory in Day 2 on Thursday of the PhilyCyling Tagaytay City Criterium 2025. Vinoya, riding out of continental team Standard Insurance Philippines, crossed solo in the finish fronting the new Tagaytay City Velodrome along Crisanto de los Reyes Avenue to win gold and the P8,000 cash prize in the Women’s Under-23 category.

But Camingao, carrying Victoria Sports Pro Cycling team, had to pour it all in the sprint to win the Men’s Under-23 title and bank P10,000 in the race organized by the PhilCycling and Tagaytay City headed by Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and presented by the MVP Sports Foundation.

Angelica Mae Altamarino and Kim Bonilla completed the podium with Angelica Elvira and Angela Joy Marie Bermejo making the top five of the women’s race that also offered cash prizes in the event—one of several that celebrated Tagaytay City’s 87th Charter Day anniversary. RR King Roque claimed silver and Andrei Domingo, son of Tour Sprint King Enrique Domingo, were second and third, respectively, in the men’s contest with Dave Eeron Cangayao and Steven Nicolas Shane Tablizo making the magic five and also clinch cash prizes. Jazmine Kaye Vinoya, Mary Gwennielle Francisco and Mhyka Marzan finished 1-2-3 in the Women’s Junior class and Darius John Villaseñor, Nathaniel Aquino and Sean Andrei Gatchalian in the Men’s Junior to join Day 1 winners on Wednesday Maritanya Krogg (Women Youth), Daniel Cortero (Men Youth), Juan Carlos Barrios (Masters B) and Ronnel Hualda (Masters A).

The races end Friday with the Elite races for men and women with the winners bringing home gold medals and P10,000 each.

The South Pacific mainstay and student of Homeschool Global also secured her first JPGT victory, crediting her breakthrough to a newfound sense of

tournament with an impressive haul of five golds, three silvers, and two bronzes.

Ariel Lee Lampacan added to the gold tally by winning the male elite wai kru event with a score of 8.96, on top of his earlier bronze in combat.

Floryvic Montero contributed a silver medal after narrowly falling to Kazakhstan’s Milana Kolchenko, 27-30, in the female elite-51 kg final. Yosorez and Albert Pangsadan also brought home silver medals in the U23 female-45 kg and U23 male-48 kg categories, respectively.

Larstephen Cañedo rounded out the team’s podium finishes with a bronze in the U23 male54 kg division.

patience and composure.

“I usually get tense and nervous while playing. On every tee box, I always worry I might mess up,” admitted Baroquillo, who expressed gratitude to her parents, uncles, and aunts for their unwavering support since Day 1.

“All the hard work has finally paid off. I’ve been training intensely over the past few months to improve, and winning for the first time is just an incredible feeling,” she said.

Molde, who seized a three-shot lead after an opening-round 77, cruised to a seven-stroke romp despite a closing 79 for a 156 total for a seven-stroke triumph over Clarin Quiño, stumbled with late double bogeys and ended with an 81 for 163.

“It was the challenges I faced that kept me going. I learned from my mistakes, made new friends, and most of all, God helped me win,” said 8-year-old Molde, who hones her skills at Apo Golf. “I’m really happy with this victory.” Francesca Geroy, second after 18 holes in the event organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., slipped to third after an 84 for a 164 aggregate.

In the boys’ 7-10 division, Barnes marked his JPGT debut in style, posting a five-stroke win over Mactan leg winner Ethan Lago. The nineyear-old ignited his title run with a fiery fourbirdie binge over five holes from No. 10, before cooling off with a bogey on the 16th to settle for a 69 and a 141 total.

Lago birdied the final hole to salvage a 70 and secure solo second at 146, while Lucas Revilleza turned in a 78 and edged multi-titled JPGT standout Kvan Alburo, who stumbled with a 79, in the countback for third after both finished at 155.

SEASONED and rising stars from the SOCCSKSARGEN (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City) area are expected to vie in the 2025 Tatang Bibo chess festival, which Koronadal City is hosting for the first time on June 28. The one-day event to be held at City Mall is the third in a series of tournaments in honor of chess patron Jessie Villasin and organized by Joselito

LJ Yasay (right) and Kylie Mallari perform their gold-winning routines in the Asian Muaythai Championships in Vietnam. Muaythai Association of the Philippines

Kimberly Baroquillo Manny Marcelo

Levi Hernandez delivers for Batangas

and Renato Dolosa and PhilCycling staff

WHAT’S INSIDE?

ABS-CBN expects turnaround in 2025

GERI to develop Nasugbu township

SEC cuts fees for document access by 50%

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced that it will reduce its fees for corporate document requests by 50 percent beginning July 1, 2025.

It said the move is in line with commitment made by new SEC chairman Francis Lim during the recent turnover ceremony, where he vowed to reduce fees to improve access to corporate information and ease financial burden of the corporate sector, particularly the micro, small and medium enterprises

“The reduced rates are in line with the commitment of the SEC to allow for greater access to corporate data through a fair and sustainable pricing mechanism, while avoiding undue financial burden to the corporate sector and the general public,” the corporate regulator said.

The SEC said in a statement it issued Memorandum Circular No. 6, Series of 2025, providing for the reduction of fees and charges for IT-related services under SEC Memorandum Circular No. 10, Series of 2023.

The new rates apply to both physical and digital copies of documents filed by registered entities with the SEC.

Under the new rates, company filings such as articles of incorporation, by-laws, amended articles or by-laws, general information sheets, resolutions, registration data sheets and deeds of assignment will now cost P1,000, down from the previous rate of P2,000. Authenticated copies of other documents may be purchased for P50 per page, down from P100 per page previously. Plain copies of the same documents will cost P750 each, instead of the old rate of P1,500. Other documents will be priced at P25 per page, down from P50.

Strong revenues reduced May budget deficit to P145b

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Philippine government’s budget deficit narrowed to P145.2 billion in May 2025 from P174.9 billion in the same month last year, the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) said Thursday.

The BTr attributed the smaller deficit to a 13.35-percent growth in revenue collections, alongside a moderation in expenditure growth to 3.81 percent during the national elections month.

The five-month deficit, however, reached P523.9 billion, up 29.41 percent year-on-year, as the government accelerated investments in infrastructure and social programs to support inclusive growth.

The government remains on track to meet its deficit target for the year through “prudent fiscal management and efficient use of resources,” in

line with its Medium-Term Fiscal Program, the BTr said.

Revenue collections in May amounted to P433.1 billion, outperforming the previous year’s level by 13.35 percent due to strong growth in both tax and non-tax revenues.

This pushed five-month collections to P1.953 trillion, up 5.41 percent year-on-year, keeping the government on track to achieve its targets for 2025.

Tax revenues, which made up the bulk of the total at P1.752 trillion, rose 10.49 percent, highlighting the sustained strength of the government’s

revenue-generating efforts.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) sustained its strong performance for the fifth consecutive month, with actual collections in May reaching P242.7 billion, up 10.71 percent yearon-year. Its five-month collection reached P1.354 trillion, a 13.80-percent increase from the same period last year.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) collection went down by 6.94 percent to P75.7 billion in May due to the impact of reduced tariffs, particularly on rice and battery-powered electric vehicles. The agency’s five-month collection reached P381.7 billion, up by 0.22 percent compared with the same period last year.

The Bureau of the Treasury’s (BTr) income surged to P83 billion in May, more than quadrupling its P20.2 billion income recorded in the same month last year.

P145.2 billion

P433.1 billion

P578.2 billion Budget deficit in May 2025 Revenue collections in May 2025 Gov’t expenditures in May 2025

Gov’t economic managers revises PH growth targets, inflation outlook

THE Philippine government’s economic managers on Thursday revised downward the country’s growth forecast and inflation outlook for 2025, citing heightened global uncertainties.

The Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) reviewed and updated its medium-term macroeconomic assumptions, growth targets and fiscal program for 2025 to 2028.

“The revisions take into account heightened global uncertainties, such as the unforeseen escalation of tensions in the Middle East and the imposition of US tariffs,” the DBCC said in a statement.

The Philippine economy grew by 5.4 percent in the first quarter of 2025, driven by accelerated government and household spending.

For the full year, growth is now projected at 5.5 percent to 6.5 percent, lower than the previously revised forecast of 6.0 percent to 6.5 percent for the year. This new target aligns with forecasts from private sector analysts and international financial institutions.

From 2026 to 2028, the Philippine economy is projected to expand by 6.0 percent to 7.0 percent, reflecting a more measured and resilient outlook amid global headwinds. This new

target growth range is lower than the earlier estimate of 6.5 percent to 8.0 percent for the same period.

To sustain economic momentum, the government is focused on maintaining price stability while expanding trade partnerships and enhancing the productivity of domestic industries.

Inflation is now expected to settle between 2.0 percent and 3.0 percent in 2025, with the DBCC stating that a “whole-of-government approach continues to support a low inflation environment.” Inflation is expected to stabilize at 2.0 percent to 4.0 percent from 2026 to 2028, consistent with

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Thursday launched a new agreement consolidating forestry permits to create jobs and streamline forest land management.

The Sustainable Forest Land Management Agreement (SFLMA) integrates seven existing forestry tenure instruments into a single productionsharing agreement.

Environment Secretary Raphael Lotilla said the SFLMA marks a “major shift” in how the Philippines manages its 15.8 million hectares of forest lands.

The agreement offers 25-year renewable terms, allowing for diverse management strategies within a single

GASTRONOMY

TOURISM. Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ma. Christina Frasco (left) welcomes Phil Rosenthal, the host of popular Netflix food and travel show Somebody Feed Phil. The show will feature the Philippines gastronomy tourism. Source: DOT’s Facebook page

the latest outlook that inflation will remain within the target range over the policy horizon.

Tempered by easing global demand and expected increases in global oil inventories, Dubai crude oil prices are expected to average between $60 to $70 per barrel from 2025 to 2028, despite escalating geopolitical tensions. The foreign exchange rate is assumed to remain stable, averaging 56 to 58 Philippine pesos per U.S. dollar from 2025 through 2028. This is supported by lower domestic inflation and will continue to be shaped by global financial conditions and external trade performance. Darwin G. Amojelar

forest area, including agroforestry, ecotourism, forest plantation development, and conservation initiatives.

“This consolidation eliminates the fragmented application processes and overlapping requirements that have historically discouraged potential investors and delayed project implementation. The streamlined approach creates clearer pathways and management strategies for sustainable forest enterprises,” said Lotilla.

The SFLMA supersedes various instruments such as the Integrated Forest Management Agreement (IFMA), Community-Based Forest Management Agreement (CBFMA) and Forest Land Use Agreement for Tourism (FLAgT).

By Othel V. Campos

THE Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) sounded the alarm as red-striped soft-scale insect (RSSI) infestation continues to spread rapidly across sugarcane farms in the Visayas, with the total affected area surging to 2,027.79 hectares, impacting 1,097 farmers across 82 barangays as of June 25, 2025. It said that from only 87 hectares and 76 farmers affected on May 22, the infestation has grown more than 23-fold in just over a month. Despite the worsening outbreak, the provincial government of Negros Occidental has yet to act on mounting calls to declare a state of calamity for the sugar industry. Negros Occidental remains the center of the infestation, with 1,980.44 hectares affected and 1,072 farmers impacted in 71 barangays. Smaller outbreaks have also been confirmed in Negros Oriental, Iloilo and Capiz, where combined affected areas now total nearly 50 hectares. Since late May, the number of affected barangays has jumped from 24 to 82 across 25 local government units, raising further concern over the scope and speed of the infestation’s spread.

Following aggressive farmer-led interventions, 228 hectares were under recovery, involving 25 farmers in areas such as Bago City, Murcia, EB Magalona, Silay City and Manapla in Negros Occidental and select areas in Capiz and Negros Oriental.

TATAK PINOY. The Tatak Pinoy (TP) Council approves the draft Tatak Pinoy Strategy (TPS) during its 3rd meeting on June 24, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the country’s industrial development agenda. The strategy lays out a comprehensive development blueprint anchored on five pillars: human resources, infrastructure, innovation and technology, investments and sound financial management.

PH

stocks, peso climb on easing ME tension

By Jenniffer B. Austria

LOCAL shares inched up Thursday as investors continued to monitor developments in the Middle East.

The peso also strengthened to 56.605 to the US dollar from 56.711 on June 25.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index climbed 5.01 points, or 0.08 percent, to close at 6,330.65, while the broader all shares went up by 6.02 points, or 0.16 percent, to 3,760.45.

“The local market’s sideways movement closed in the positive territory as the positive effects of the Israel-Iran ceasefire continued to lift sentiment,” said Japhet Tantiangco, research head at Philstocks Financial Inc.

“This includes the decline in global oil prices and the rebound of the local currency against the U.S. dollar.”

The market’s increase, however, was tempered by uncertainties in the U.S. Federal Reserve’s policy outlook after Fed Chair Jerome Powell signaled a wait-and-see approach due to concerns about inflation.

Sectors ended mixed. Property advanced by 1.3 percent, while holding firms increased by 0.42 percent.

On the other hand, mining and oil declined by 1.37 percent, while financials went down by 0.16 percent. Industrials also decreased by 0.15 percent and services by 0.09 percent.

Value turnover reached P5.59 billion.

Foreign investors were net sellers with outflows reaching P598.85 million.

Shares of property giant Ayala Land Inc. jumped 4.01 percent to P24.65 per share.

On the other hand, shares of Bloomberry Resorts Corp. declined 5.7 percent to P5.13 apiece.

ABS-CBN expects turnaround in 2025

By Darwin G. Amojelar

ABS-CBN Corp. said Thursday it expects a financial turnaround this year, driven by a significant reduction in debt and an anticipated increase in advertising revenue.

The company’s positive outlook follows the sale of a three-hectare property in Quezon City to Ayala Land, which is expected to substantially reduce its outstanding bank loans.

“We are scheduled to turn over the property to Ayala Land by December 2026. All the proceeds from the sale of this property will be used to reduce our bank loans,” said Carlo Katigbak, president and chief executive of ABS-CBN.

With the pending sale, Katigbak expects to further reduce the company’s debt to around P13 billion this year from P21 billion in 2020.

“I believe we are finally well-positioned for a turnaround in 2025,” Katigbak said.

“We hope to achieve profitability sometime within the next 18 months. As we mentioned earlier, we are already at an optimum level of spending, while we feel that the advertising market is improving, and our direct-to-consumer businesses are also picking up. We are also very excited and enthusiastic about growing our international revenues.”

Katigbak noted that the advertising market is recovering from last year and the company will get an “extraordinary bump” from election-related advertising.

“We hope to sustain the gains from our digital businesses while growing our international licensing, film and music revenues. With reduced debt levels, we expect financing costs to decline, improving our cash flow and profitability,” he said.

The company’s operating income improved by 40 percent compared to 2023, and its net losses declined by 53 percent, primarily due to improvements in cost management and the growth in content production and distribution revenues.

Katigbak said ABS-CBN will keep the remaining 1.4 hectares, which consists of the ELJ Communications Center and its studios.

CONVERGE ICT Solutions Inc. has partnered with Nokia to modernize its new data centers across the Philippines.

Under the agreement, Converge will use Nokia’s Data Center Fabric solution — a switching platform composed of both hardware and software — to future-proof its new data centers in the Philippines by incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) and automation technology.

The solution will empower Converge to enhance network performance, scalability and efficiency while improving service agility. Converge will also be able to ensure sovereign cloud readiness for regulatory compliance.

“As Converge and many forwardlooking technology companies increasingly host AI applications, we need to ensure there is seamless integration with traditional applications,” said Dennis Anthony Uy, Converge CEO and co-founder. “We see AI workloads and high-performance computing (HPC) becoming an essential part of our operations so we’re prepping our data center networks to be designed for extreme scalability and reliability.”

Nokia’s 7220 Interconnect Router (IXR) data center switches, running the next-generation SR-Linux network operating system (NOS) and Event-Driven Automation (EDA) platform, will enable Converge to drive operational excellence by enhancing network simplicity.

The operator will be able toure more sustainable operations by using automation to reduce energy consumption. Nokia’s Data Center Fabric solution delivers a consistently highquality experience while addressing the growing demands of AI-driven workloads.

“This crucial initiative with Nokia reflects our commitment to continuously adopt next-generation technology solutions to provide consistently high-quality experience to our customers,” said Paulo Martin Santos, chief Network Transformation Officer at Converge. “Nokia’s industry-leading solutions will help us prepare our infrastructure for future demands.” Darwin G. Amojelar

By Othel V. Campos

WEST Zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services Inc. is now delivering pipedin water to approximately 10.5 million people as of the first quarter of 2025, the company announced in a statement Thursday.

“We remain focused on expanding access and sustaining service levels as demand rises. It’s a long-term commitment that supports both water security and the well-being of the communities we serve,” said Maynilad president and chief executive Ramoncito Fernandez.

As of March 2025, Maynilad had 1,556,603 active water service connections, up by 77.8 percent from 2006, and covering

94.7 percent of the West Zone. About 96.8 percent of Maynilad customers enjoy a 24-hour water supply, a sharp rise from just 32 percent in 2006. Similarly, 96.8 percent of customers now receive water at an average pressure of at least 7 pounds per square inch (psi), the minimum needed to push water up to a second-floor structure, compared to only 45 percent in 2006. Since its re-privatization in 2007, Maynilad has replaced 3,293 kilometers of aging pipelines, equivalent to roughly 72 percent of the

Nokia and Converge ICT Solutions Inc. plan to deploy data center solution for high speed and superior digital services to consumers. These solutions will improve Converge’s overall network performance, unmatched reliability and speeds, enable rapid rollout digital services and meet connectivity demands, and help Converge leverage AI and automation to enhance network efficiency.

SCHOOL TURNOVER. Ovialand, Inc., a leading provider of premier housing communities in South Luzon, donates a newly constructed school building to Soledad Elementary School in San Pablo City, Laguna. Leading the turnover ceremony are (from left) Teresita Gonzales, chairwoman Brgy. Soledad, San Pablo City; Gerlie Ilagan, CESO VI; Lourdilyn Glorioso, principal.

Memorandum of Agreement with the Bauan Electric Light System (BELS) wherein the power to operate the electric distribution in the Municipality of Bauan, Batangas was transferred to FBPC. A copy of the said Memorandum of Agreement is hereto attached and duly marked as Annex “B”;

4. On June 30, 2005, BELS was granted a franchise by the National Electrification Commission (NEC) to operate an electric light, heat and power system for the purpose of generating and/or distributing electricity for sale within the Municipality of Bauan, Province of Batangas for a period of twenty (20) years from the expiry date of its CPCN or up to June 30, 2019. A copy of the Certificate of Franchise issued in NEC Case No. 99-03 in favor of BELS is hereto attached and duly marked as Annex “C”;

5. In 2014, FBPC filed before this Honorable Commission an Application for the Approval of Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN), docketed as ERC Case No. 2014-031. The Honorable ERC already issued a Provisional Authority in the said case;

6. Republic Act No. 10891, an Act Granting the FBPC a franchise to Construct, Install, Establish, Operate and Maintain a Distribution System for the Conveyance of Electric Power to the End Users in the Municipality of Bauan, Province of Batangas, which originated in the House of Representatives, was passed by the House of Representatives and Senate on October 9, 2015 and May 23, 2016, respectively;

7. Republic Act No. 10891 took effect on September 2, 2016;

8. FBPC still uses the bundle rates approved for BELS;

9. In the said CPCN Provisional Authority, this Honorable Commission directed FBPC to, among other things, file the appropriate rate application for its distribution rates. In compliance therewith, and the provisions of Section 36 of Republic Act No. 9136 (“EPIRA”), FBPC hereby files the instant Application for its proposed initial distribution rates and rate schedules of its customers, as well as for the approval of the appraised value of its properties; FBPC’S CURRENT RATES 10. FBPC’s Current Rates to its Customers is as follows: FBPC’s existing rates are composed of the Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) which includes Purchased Power Cost, Transmission Charges, and System Loss Charges. The PCA reflects the average rate for the year 2024. The Basic Charge covers the bundled Distribution, Supply, and Metering Charges. Additionally,

utilized the appraised value of assets, as reported by an independent appraiser, Cuervo Appraisers, Inc. (“CAI”), as of 30 September 2021, a copy of which is hereto attached and duly marked as Annex “E”, in the determination of its rate base. The proposed rate base is as follows:

17. FBPC’s proposed rate base considered the following:

a. An appraisal company was engaged by FBPC to appraise its property using the reproduction cost (new)/replacement cost (new) and depreciated replacement cost of the property intended for the unbundling process of its revenue requirement based on its appraisal report from Cuervo Appraisers, Inc. as of September 30, 2021.

b. The appraisal property consists of buildings, other land improvements, electrical substation, transmission and distribution systems, machinery and equipment, computer equipment, communication equipment, transportation equipment, furniture and office equipment, warehouse tools and computer software, located within Barangay Poblacion, Manghinao Proper and Balayong, all in Bauan, Batangas.

18. FBPC utilized a rate of return of 12% of its rate base, equivalent to PhP55,998,446.00, consistent with prevailing jurisprudence on the reasonable rate of return.

iii. Rate Design

19. The total revenue requirement amount was allocated to individual rate classes using functionalization or the arrangement of costs according to the major operating functions and fairly apportioned allocation.

20. Using the annualized kWh sales for CY 2024, the rate design for residential, commercial and public building customers were calculated using the annualized kwh sales and number of customers. While for the Streetlight the rates are calculated based on the number of meters.

21. The rate design process started with the examination of the cost of service. A cost-of-service study is used to (1) Functionalize the costs according to their major functions and (2) Allocate costs to various customer classes. This was done using the following steps:

a. The Revenue Requirement was functionalized into FBPC’s regulated services: Distribution, Supply and Metering.

b. The functionalized revenue is then allocated to the different customer classes based on the functions used in the provision of service to each customer class. There are directly assigned costs or costs that are caused or incurred by a single rate class. There are also joint costs that are caused or incurred by two or more rate classes. Lastly, there are common costs or those that are common to all rate classes.

c. The functionalized revenue for each customer class is then allocated to the rate elements that can be customer, energy-related, or demand-related. These rate elements served as billing determinants for the resulting distribution, supply, and metering charges by customer class.

d. The derived functionalized revenue is then divided by the corresponding billing determinants resulting in the proposed rates per customer class.

22. FBPC’s proposed distribution rate structure consisted of charges for the following specific functions: (a) Distribution (b) Supply and (c) Metering iv. Distribution Charge

23. Currently, FBPC’s billing, regardless of voltage and demand level, is based on the metered energy quantities under a peso per kilowatt-hour charge. This is in accordance with the existing tariff currently being implemented.

24. FBPC is proposing that for Residential, Commercial, Public Building and Metered Streetlight, the Distribution Charge shall be on a peso per kilowatt-hour (PhP/kWh) basis while for the Industrial shall be both on a peso per kilowatt (PhP/kW) and peso per kilowatt-hour (PhP/kWh) basis. v. Supply and Metering Charges

25. FBPC proposes a fixed charge per month (PhP/customer/month) for the supply and metering services of all its customers, except Residential and Streetlight customers. vi. Charges to Customers with Zero Consumption

26. For customers without consumption for a billing month, it is proposed that the minimum charge shall be the sum of the Supply Charge and Metering Charge plus applicable taxes. vii. Subsidies

capacity of the existing substation within the next twenty-five (25) years.

II. FBPC’S PROPOSED INITIAL DISTRIBUTION RATES 11. FBPC hereby applies for the approval of the following rate schedules in accordance with the sectors or functions identified in Section 5 of the EPIRA. These rates were formulated based on the data and calculations contained in the schedules prescribed in the Honorable Commission’s Order dated 30 October 2001, prescribing the Uniform Filing Requirements (“UFR”), to wit:

27. FBPC proposed the following removal of inter-class cross-subsidy charges in this application, to

A. Proposed Revenue Requirement Based on Test Year 2024

12. FBPC calculated its Total Revenue Requirement based on Calendar Year (“CY”) 2024 as the test year using the Return on Rate Base (“RORB”) methodology. The application shows the assets at historical and appraised values. The submitted historical costs of assets, as indicated in Schedule A of the UFR, was solely for informational purposes, and was not used for ratemaking. However, FBPC’s calculations as set out in the said Schedule A of the UFR, used the appraised or sound value of assets, as underlying basis for the formulation and design of its proposed rates. The proposed Revenue Requirement amounted to TWO HUNDRED FIFTY-SIX MILLION NINE HUNDRED FOURTEEN THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED SEVENTY-SIX PESOS (PhP256,914,176.00),

Global-Estate investing P5b to build Nasugbu township

By Jenniffer B. Austria

GLOBAL-ESTATE Resorts Inc. (GERI), a subsidiary of Megaworld Corp., is investing P5 billion over the next five years to develop a new township in Nasugbu, Batangas.

The project, called Nascala Coast, is envisioned as “a mixed-use, integrated tourism and leisure estate combining residential villages, beachside condominiums, commercial hubs and leisure destinations,” Megaworld said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Thursday.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ACEN Corp., the renewable energy arm of Ayala Corp., said Thursday it invested an additional P875 million in its subsidiary Buendia Christiana Holdings Corp. (BCHC) to acquire more land for potential power projects.

ACEN said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange it subscribed to an additional 875,000 common shares and 7,875,000 redeemable preferred shares in BCHC, all priced at P100 per share. The transaction increases ACEN’s stake in BCHC, a special purpose vehicle for land acquisition, by 15 percent.

“The proceeds of ACEN’s subscription will be used by BCHC to acquire additional parcels of land for the ACEN group’s various potential power projects,” the company said. The latest investment follows a previous subscription agreement on March 18, 2025, where ACEN acquired common and redeemable preferred shares in BCHC equivalent to a 13-percent stake.

ACEN, the Ayala group’s listed energy platform, is among the fastestgrowing renewable energy platforms in Asia Pacific.

The Philippines is its core and largest market, accounting for 35 percent of its capacity. The company also has a significant presence in Australia, Vietnam, India and Laos, with strategic investments in Indonesia and other markets.

The beach property will become Megaworld Group’s 36th township.

“Nascala draws its name from ‘Nasugbu,’ the picturesque municipality in Batangas where it rises, and the Spanish word ‘Escala,’ meaning ‘climb’—a fitting nod to its elevated

setting near the coast. This township captures the essence of Nasugbu’s distinct allure, where unspoiled beaches, breathtaking mountain vistas, and a deep cultural heritage converge,” said GERI president Monica Salomon.

“More than just a destination, Nascala Coast is envisioned as a thriving coastal address where tourists can enjoy the best of nature and generations of families can flourish,” she said.

Nascala Coast offers panoramic views of Nasugbu Bay and nearby mountains including Mount Batulao, Mount Talamitam and Mount Palay-

Palay.

The township will feature commercial lots, mixed-use areas and town centers designed to blend lifestyle and investment opportunities. The estate is accessible within 2.5 hours from Metro Manila via South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), ManilaCavite Expressway (CAVITEX) or the Ternate-Nasugbu Highway and is about an hour from Tagaytay.

Aside from Nascala Coast, the property firm is also set to launch a 112-hectare mixed-use township development in Cagayan de Oro City.

THE Philippines gross savings climbed to P7.70 trillion in 2024, the Philippine Statistics showed (PSA) said Thursday. It did not provide comparative figures, but the agency earlier reported that gross savings amounted to P6.60 trillion in 2023 and P4.90 trillion in 2022.

Gross saving, a portion of the country’s income not spent on consumption, represents money available for investment and future economic growth. It is the difference between total consumption and gross national disposable income.

“All four institutional sectors regis-

tered savings in 2024, with non-financial corporations recording the highest gross saving of P4.96 trillion,” the PSA said.

This was followed by financial corporations with gross saving of P1.98 trillion; households, including nonprofit institutions serving households (NPISHs), with P393.31 billion; and the general government with P364.98 billion.

The country’s gross national disposable income was valued at P31.68 trillion in 2024, representing a growth of 10.5 percent from 2023.

Among the components of value added, gross operating surplus posted

under the Social Equity and Inclusion Initiative of the Year-Pension category, and for its Lease with Option to Buy Program under the Public Sector Initiative of the Year-Housing category. Holding the plaques are GSIS corporate services senior vice president Racquel Buensalida (fifth from left) and real property accounts management department manager Lyn Monte-Kabigting (fourth from left). With them are corporate communications creative director Elmirah Salanga (third from left); Ceilo Orquillano, director of Hapag (left); Christine Logdat (second from left), and GovMedia 2025 judge Edwina Chin.

the highest share of 57.0 percent in 2024. This was followed by compensation of employees at 34.8 percent, and taxes less subsidies on production and on imports at 8.2 percent.

The PSA said the gross saving data came from the consolidated accounts and income and outlay (CAIO) accounts compiled annually, which are valued at current prices.

The consolidated accounts present a summary of transactions and relationships among the various flows of the economy. Included in the report are production, consumption, income, gross accumulation and economic transactions with the rest of the world.

DICT pushes reforms after index drop

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is pushing for the enactment of the Konektadong Pinoy Act and the expansion of its Free Wi-Fi for All program to improve the country’s mobile connectivity.

This comes after the Philippines’ ranking in the 2025 GSMA Mobile Connectivity Index (MCI) report dropped 0.52 points to 67.69 out of 100.

“While this marks a slight decline from the previous year, it serves as a timely reminder of the work that remains in achieving universal, reliable, and affordable digital access for all Filipinos,” DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said in a statement. Aguda said the report is viewed “not as a setback, but as a guide that reinforces our focus on closing the digital divide, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to have an inclusive and digitally connected Philippines.”

The DICT said it is pushing for the passage of the Konektadong Pinoy Act to promote open-access policies, infrastructure sharing among telecommunications providers and the streamlining of permitting processes for broadband rollout.

“By lowering operational barriers and fostering competition, the measure is expected to reduce internet costs by 2028, while accelerating the deployment of high-quality connectivity across urban and rural areas alike,” Aguda said.

IN BRIEF

BCDA courts Canadian investors STATE-RUN Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said it is strengthening international investment ties through a recent engagement with the Philippine Consulate in Vancouver, Canada, aimed at expanding Canadian business participation in the Philippines. The BCDA presented flagship developments, including New Clark City in Tarlac, the Camp John Hay Special Economic Zone in Baguio, and the Poro Point Freeport Zone in La Union. These were highlighted as high-potential

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine textile and garments industry is struggling to align with global standards for circularity, with a recent survey showing only 2 percent to 3 percent participation in sustainable practices under the circular economy model.

Robert Young, textile trustee of the Philippine Exporters Confederation (Philexport), said the country’s garments sector, largely comprised of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), remains unprepared to meet international circularity goals. Young made the comments at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)

Workshop on Supporting MSMEs’ Transition to a Circular Economy in the Textile and Garments Industries.

“We are lagging, with compliance levels hovering at only 2 percent to 3 percent. There is a clear need for a stronger and sustained advocacy, along with public-private collaboration, to bridge this gap,” said Young. The APEC workshop, held from June 5 to 6, 2025, in Hanoi, Vietnam, identified several key barriers to circularity including limited repair options, poor e-waste infrastructure, lack of innovation and green technologies, weak policy support and low consumer awareness.

FOREST LAKE CONVENTION. Winners of the local sales award from North Luzon celebrate their achievements during Forest Lake Development Inc.’s 11th National Sales Convention at Dusit Thani Mactan, Cebu. The convention gathered

sales leaders, award-winning agents, executives, board members, employees, premier investors and bank partners.

MANGINGISDA TUNGO SA

MASAGANANG BAGONG PILIPINAS’

DA@127: United with farmers, fisherfolk toward a prosperous new Philippines

IN ITS 127th year of providing honest public service, the Department of Agriculture (DA) celebrates its continuing support for local farmers, fisherfolk, and agricultural workers working toward a prosperous new Philippines.

Coinciding with its mandate of advancing progress and modern agriculture, through its primary programs (National Rice Program, National Corn Program, HighValue Crops Development Program, National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program, National Organic Agriculture Program, Halal Food Industry Development Program, National Livestock Program, National Fisheries Program, at iba pang local at foreign-assisted projects), the DA successfully achieved the following from January to March 2025:

Distributing production and trade support, training services, irrigation programs, and mechanization initiatives to 15,164 individuals and 545 agricultural groups; Completion of the Philippine Rural Development Project at P6.64 billion (B) worth of infrastructure, farm-to-market roads, and others for 25,556 people, 42 groups, and 179,224 households nationwide; Providing access to credit services to 4,959 individuals worth P512.86 million (M) with the assistance of the Agricultural Credit Policy Council; Provision of P243.117 M compensation by the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation for 827,579 farmers

and fisherfolk; Implementing the P20 Rice program—then just part of the aspirations of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.—to make food affordable, especially for senior citizens, solo parents, 4Ps beneficiaries, and PWDs; Implementing the Ricefor-All Program, Kadiwa ng Pangulo, strengthened food mobilization, and strengthened institutional linkages to reduce the prices of basic commodities and improve the livelihoods and quality of life of local producers and vendors; and having the DA Inspectorate and Enforcement confiscates over P352.55 M worth of contraband, as part of interventions for fair competition in the market and safe food for every Filipino.

These are just a few of the DA’s achievements in the first quarter of the year; but they attest to the skill, strength, dedication, and perseverance of the DA Family under the leadership of Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. Together with every industry stakeholder, every DA officer and staff member is bringing to life quality and inclusive steps towards a vibrant agricultural sector that can uplift farmers and fisherfolk and compete at the global level.

DA @ 127 with BPI drive gains in productivity, safety, and trade

AS THE Department of Agriculture (DA) celebrates its 127th anniversary, it carries with it its continued and strong coordinated efforts with the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), anchored in the DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr.’s vision of “modernizing Philippine agriculture to spread benefits across the entire value chain.”

A notable milestone brought by this close coordination was the expansion of market access, where the BPI initiated a phytosanitary collaboration. This demonstrated how effective regulatory cooperation can open new opportunities for Filipino farmers. From 2023 to 2025, the Philippines achieved notable market access gains for its agricultural products, including China for fresh and frozen durian; South Korea and Japan for Hass avocado; Australia, Lebanon, Mongolia, and Italy for fresh mangoes; Germany for pili nuts (in shell and kernel); Malaysia and Egypt for fresh durian; Poland for pomelo; New Zealand for frozen durian and the recommencement of fresh mango access; and Russia for fresh Hass avocado, calamansi, and okra. This is correlated to the Secretary Tiu Laurel’s agenda of providing an improved and expanded market access.

In support of the DA’s intensified campaign against agricultural smuggling, BPI plays an active role in intercepting smuggled agricultural commodities and conducting regular monitoring and inspection of storage facilities. These efforts aim to prevent the entry of plant pests and diseases and ensure food safety, protecting both consumers and the livelihood of Filipino farmers.

Another highlight in 2025 was the launch of the BPI Kadiwa Center in Malate, Manila, offering affordable and fresh produce, including well-milled rice through the Rice for All Program, initially priced at P45/kg and later adjusted to P35/kg. A separate P20/kg rice initiative also supported low-income communities, which also ensures a steady supply of rice while stabilizing retail prices and curbing price manipulation. Directly aligning to Sec. Kiko’s agenda of maintain of a strong partnership with farmers and private sectors and develop efficient logistics system.

As part of its mandate on food safety, BPI has strengthened and expanded its services by deploying a Mobile Food Safety Laboratory to provide on-site testing for pesticide residues, chemical and microbial contaminants, promoting

consumer protection, enhancing market competitiveness, and ensuring that farmers’ produce meets both local and international safety standards.

Integral to building a resilient and productive agriculture sector, ensuring that farmers have access to quality planting materials, reliable support services, BPI implemented a range of initiatives that balance its developmental and regulatory functions. These include conducting information caravans to raise awareness on plant material certification and nursery accreditation, organizing seed production seminars to capacitate farmers and stakeholders, and enhancing BPI’s own laboratories and facilities for more efficient testing and quality control.

Together, the DA and BPI’s initiatives have brought measurable gains across the agriculture sector. These collective efforts mark a year of meaningful progress, laying a stronger foundation for a more resilient and inclusive Philippine agriculture. As the DA celebrates its 127th founding anniversary, we at BPI extend our heartfelt greetings to all its dedicated officials, employees, and partners across the country. The DA’s unwavering commitment to uplifting Filipino farmers, protecting consumers, ensuring food security, and building a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive agriculture sector remains at the heart of its mission. Mabuhay ang Kagawaran ng Pagsasaka.

Trabaho at Serbisyong Pangkalusugan sa Bagong Pilipinas in Dasmariñas, Cavite (March 21, 2025)

Selling of P20-per-kilo Rice

FRIDAY, JUNE 27, 2025

KAISA NG MAGSASAKA’T MANGINGISDA TUNGO SA MASAGANANG BAGONG PILIPINAS’

ADA celebrates its 127th founding anniversary

GRICULTURE Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. stressed the importance of unity and collective action in achieving the department’s goals during the celebration of the Department of Agriculture’s 127th founding anniversary on June 23, 2025.

With the theme, “Kaisa ng Magsasaka’t Mangingisda Tungo sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas.” this year’s celebration highlights the vital role of the DA in empowering farmers and fishers toward building a food-secure and progressive nation.

In his keynote message, Sec. Tiu Laurel Jr. noted that this year, the country is expected to hit a record high in sugar production, and if spared from typhoons, may also achieve a record yield in palay (rice) production.

Beyond these achievements, he emphasized that the welfare of the Filipino people must remain the top priority, highlighting the need for continued unity and cooperation among all sectors with the launch of the P20 rice program.

“Tuloy-tuloy ang koordinasyon at pakikisa, hindi lamang sa loob ng DA kundi pati na rin sa ibang ahensya ng pamahalaan, upang makamit natin ang ating mga layunin (Coordination and cooperation must continue—not only within the DA but also with other government agencies—so that we can achieve our goals),” Tiu Laurel said.

“Mahalaga na huwag nating kalimutan ang ating mga magsasaka, mangingisda, at mga nag-aalaga ng baboy—ang kanilang mga pangangailangan ay kailangang matugunan sa lalong madaling panahon (It is important that we do not forget our farmers, fishers, and hog raisers—their needs must be addressed as soon as possible),” he added.

Moreover, a total of 101 loyalty awardees were honored at the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DABSWM) Convention Hall as part of the DA’s celebration through its Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE). The PRAISE awarding ceremony recognized DA officials and employees who have rendered continuous and satisfactory service for at least 10 years, and every five years thereafter.

Secretary Tiu Laurel praised the dedication and resilience of DA officials and employees, acknowledging their unwavering

service and perseverance despite the many challenges they have faced.

“Ngayong araw, hayaan niyo ako na pasalamatan kayo sa mga araw na kahit pagod na ay pinipili pa rin pumasok. Sa mga overtime na di na mabilang, at sa mga ngiting kahit kupas na ay totoo pa rin (Today, allow me to thank you for all the days when, despite being tired, you still chose to show up. For the countless hours of overtime, and for the smiles that, though worn, remain sincere),” Tiu Laurel said.

He also expressed his appreciation to all personnel, from officials at the Central Office to field staff in the regions, recognizing their dedication, loyalty, and compassion throughout his nearly two years of service as DA Secretary.

“Patuloy tayo na nagkakaisa, sa pamumuno ni President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., at sa ating pagtutulungan, makakamit natin ang isang agrikulturang masagana, makabago, at matatag na agrikultura (We continue to stand united under the leadership of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., and through our collective efforts, we will achieve a prosperous, modern, and resilient agriculture sector),” he said.

As a highlight of the event, DA employees joined the Secretary and other DA officials in the ceremonial ribbon cutting of the photo and product exhibit featuring photos of all DA employees in their Filipiniana attires, proudly displayed to honor their contributions and celebrate their role in advancing Philippine agriculture.

Meanwhile, as part of the weeklong celebration, all DA bureaus and attached agencies/corporations also set up booths featuring their services to the public. It is a one-stop shop for their services instead of the public going to their offices separately.

This year’s product exhibit, on the other hand, promotes products from the regions and also of the DA employees’. The public may visit and purchase from these booths from June 23 to June 27.

Photos from DA-AFID

A century and counting: The DA’s enduring mission for Filipino food security

By Patricia Taculao-Deligero

THIS June 2025, the Department of Agriculture (DA) will celebrate another relevant milestone: its 127th Founding Anniversary. For over a century, this government agency has been at the forefront of ensuring that every Filipino has food and that those who cultivate the land and fish the seas can prosper. From its establishment during the First Philippine Republic, the DA has grown from a fledgling office to a comprehensive department, working tirelessly to address the evolving challenges of a dynamic world. Its role today is as critical as ever, impacting not just farmers and fisherfolk but every household across the country.

Core mission: Achieving food security

The primary goal of the Department of Agriculture is to achieve food security for every Filipino. This means ensuring enough accessible, affordable, safe, and nutritious food for everyone in the country. This isn’t a simple task, especially

in an archipelagic nation like the Philippines, which is often in the path of typhoons and faces the intensifying effects of climate change. The DA actively works to address these vulnerabilities, understanding that erratic weather patterns, from prolonged droughts during El Niño to devastating typhoons and the threat of La Niña, directly impact crop yields, livestock, and fisheries.

Beyond climate concerns, the agricultural sector also grapples with other significant issues such as rising costs for farm inputs like fertilizers and fuel, inefficient logistical systems for getting produce to market, limited access to financial support for smallholder farmers, and the persistent problem of agricultural smuggling, which undermines local produce and farmers’ incomes. The DA’s comprehensive approach aims to tackle these headon, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and resilience.

Despite these hurdles, the Department of Agriculture has a proud record of achievements.

Initiatives like the “Masagana Rice Industry Development Program” modernize rice farming, making it more resilient to climate change and efficient through farm clustering and improved value chains. The department also supports programs for corn production, aiming to increase its output for both human consumption and animal feed, and continues to develop high-value crops, and boost the livestock sector to diversify agricultural produce and increase farmers’ incomes.

Embracing holistic farming

The DA champions sustainable farming as a key to long-term food security and resilience. Secretary

Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has highlighted the urgent need to adopt sustainable methods given the challenges of climate change, population growth, and

shrinking farmlands. These are not distant threats, he emphasizes, but immediate realities impacting the daily lives of Filipino farmers. To address this, the DA promotes climate-smart innovations, including revised cropping calendars and efficient irrigation systems like alternate wetting and drying. They are also rolling out mobile soil laboratories to help farmers optimize land use and improve yields. Precision and regenerative agriculture are being introduced to encourage more efficient use of resources while reducing waste and environmental harm. Furthermore, the DA supports organic farming, which avoids synthetic chemicals and relies on natural methods like composting to improve soil health and food safety. This holistic approach ensures that agricultural growth is not just productive but also environmentally responsible and beneficial for future generations. Additionally, the department fosters research

and development (R&D) to introduce innovative solutions to agricultural challenges. From exploring drought-resistant crops to implementing precision agriculture technologies like sensors for real-time monitoring, the DA is committed to leveraging science for the sector’s benefit. Encouraging the youth to embrace farming is also among the department’s top priorities, especially with the average age of Filipino farmers now over 55. Programs like startup incubators, digital mentorships, and scholarships could become significant in inspiring younger generations to take up the responsibility of food production. Looking back through the years

The journey of the Department of Agriculture is as rich and dynamic as the nation it serves, stretching back to the nascent days of the First Philippine Republic. The journey of the Department of Agriculture began 127 years ago, on June 23, 1898, when President Emilio Aguinaldo of the Revolutionary Government of the Philippines established the Department of Agriculture and Manufacturing. Early leaders like Jose Alejandrino guided its initial steps. During the American colonial period, it was renamed the Insular Bureau of Agriculture in 1901, shifting its focus to developing basic commodities like rice and fostering fishing, forestry, and mining. The department saw several transformations over the decades. In 1917, it became the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR). A significant change occurred in 1928, under Secretary Rafael Alunan Sr., when the DANR was reorganized into the Department of Agriculture and Commerce, splitting the Bureau of Agriculture into separate bureaus for Plant Industry and Animal Industry.

Inspection of Smuggled White Onions in Mexico, Pampanga (May 9, 2025)

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel

Department of Public Works and Highways

127TH ANNIVERSARY WITH RENEWED PLEDGE TO NATION-BUILDING

DPWH: 127 years of bridging generations and nation-building

By Patricia Taculao-Deligero

SMOOTH roads, a sturdy bridge connecting your town to the bustling city, or the swift drainage of floodwaters after a heavy downpour are everyday conveniences, often taken for granted, that are the tangible results of a steadfast institution that has been shaping the Philippine landscape for over a century.

This June 23, 2025, marks the 127th Founding Anniversary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), an agency that serves as the nation’s primary engineering and construction arm. Far from just laying asphalt and erecting concrete, the DPWH plays an indispensable, yet often understated, role in the country’s progress, directly impacting the lives of every Filipino. The importance of robust, well-maintained infrastructure cannot be overstated in a country like the Philippines, prone to natural disasters and a rapidly growing economy. It’s the backbone that supports trade, allows access to essential services, and helps communities bounce back after calamities.

Looking to the future

For 2025 and beyond, the department continues to prioritize enhancing connectivity across the archipelago, easing traffic congestion in urban centers, and building more resilient communities against the growing threats of climate change.

DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan has emphasized a clear and urgent call to action for the department: to “accelerate, deliver, and lead” in the implementation of the administration’s “Build, Better, More” program. This vision extends beyond simply constructing new projects; it speaks to a commitment to speed, quality, integrity, and the efficient use of public funds.

A significant focus is on enhancing inter-regional connectivity and promoting inclusive economic growth. This includes the commencement of feasibility studies for 25 priority bridge projects across 11 regions, a major part of the Urgent Bridges Construction Project for Rural Development (UBCPRD) Phase II. These bridges are envisioned to seamlessly connect islands and provinces, reducing travel times and costs for goods and people.

Furthermore, the DPWH is actively fast-tracking crucial farmto-market road projects, such as one

in Barangay Payac, Bangui, Ilocos Norte, which aims to improve market access for local farmers by including drainage systems, slope protection, and even solar-powered streetlights for improved safety.

The agency is also strengthening its institutional capacity and leadership through initiatives like the Leadership Excellence for Advanced Development (LEAD) Program, launched in April 2025, which prepares future leaders for transformational infrastructure projects, ensuring continuity and expertise in project delivery.

Embracing digital transformation, the DPWH is spearheading advanced infrastructure inspections using its Fortified Operations and Maintenance Geospatial Survey (OMGS) mobile application, reflecting a commitment to efficiency and modern governance.

Environmental stewardship is also a key aspect, as seen in the nationwide simultaneous tree planting activity conducted in June 2025, where offices like the Northern Samar Second District Engineering Office planted mangroves to foster environmental responsibility and combat climate change.

Years of success

The DPWH’s commitment to progress is evident in its numerous achievements over recent years, delivering vital projects that directly improve the lives of Filipinos. Under the “Build, Better, More” infrastructure program, which spans from 2022 to 2028, 74 of the 185 Infrastructure Flagship Projects are being implemented by the DPWH. Among these, the Samar Pacific Coastal Road Project, a significant initiative, has been completed, improving access and development in the region.

Other completed projects include critical flood risk improvement and management projects for the Cagayan De Oro River and integrated disaster risk reduction measures in the low-lying areas of Pampanga Bay,

bolstering community resilience against natural calamities.

In the past year alone, from July 2022 to May 2023, the DPWH reported the construction, maintenance, widening, upgrading, and rehabilitation of over 4,082 kilometers of roads and the construction, widening, upgrading, rehabilitation, and strengthening of 497 bridges.

Additionally, 2,103 flood-control projects and 4,038 classrooms were completed. Major ongoing initiatives include the ambitious Luzon Spine Expressway Network, designed to drastically cut travel time from Ilocos to Bicol, and the Inter-Island Linkage Bridge Program, which aims to provide seamless connectivity across the country’s major islands, exemplified by the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge and the Samal Island-Davao City Connector Bridge. These projects underscore the DPWH’s dedication to not just building structures but forging pathways to economic growth and improved quality of life.

DPWH’s rich history

The DPWH boasts a rich and extensive history, stretching back to the earliest days of the Philippine government. Its origins can be traced to the Spanish colonial era, with the construction of initial settlement roads in 1565. The formal establishment of the Bureau of Public Works and Highways, or Obras Publicas, occurred in 1868. This foundational period laid the groundwork for a centralized approach to public infrastructure.

During the Philippine Revolution, the importance of infrastructure was recognized through its inclusion in the Department of War and Public Works in 1898, reflecting its strategic value. The American period saw further evolution, with the creation of the Bureau of Public Works in 1905,

leading to significant expansion of road networks as motor vehicles became more common.

Over the decades, the agency underwent several reorganizations and name changes, adapting to the changing needs and challenges of the nation. It was known as the Department of Public Works and Communications in 1931 and later the Department of Public Works, Transportation, and Communications in 1951. After World War II, the department played a crucial role in post-war reconstruction efforts, collaborating with international partners to rebuild essential infrastructure.

Finally, by Executive Order No. 124, dated January 30, 1987, the agency was formally renamed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), solidifying its mandate as the primary engineering and construction arm of the Philippine government. For 127 years, through colonial times, wars, and various administrations, the DPWH has consistently been at the forefront of nation-building, embodying a continuous commitment to progress.

As the DPWH celebrates its 127th anniversary, it stands as a testament to perseverance and progress. From its historical roots in colonial administration to its modern role as a key driver of national development, the department’s work impacts every facet of Filipino life. The roads we travel, the bridges that connect us, and the flood control systems that protect our communities are all products of its relentless efforts. The DPWH is not just building infrastructure; it is building a better, more connected, and more resilient future for the Philippines. Photos sourced from https://www. facebook.com/dpwhph

DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan

FRIDAY, JUNE 27, 2025

Editor

NICKIE WANG,

Writer

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,

Writer

JASPER VALDEZ,

SMX Convention Center has been named one of Kalibrr’s Top 50 Employers in the Philippines for 2025, a recognition that reinforces the value of building a workplace where people are supported, motivated, and given room to grow.

The events and hospitality sector demands speed, adaptability, and sharp attention to detail. SMX, with over 38,000 square meters of leasable space across multiple cities, recognizes that none of this would be possible without a strong team. Its strength lies not in scale alone, but in how it consistently invests in its people.

Part of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC), SMX fosters a culture of service, initiative, and care—qualities

workplace excellence

shaped by a philosophy that prioritizes professionalism and collaboration in every interaction. Employees are encouraged to take ownership of their work while contributing to a shared sense of purpose. The result: a motivated workforce that takes pride in every event hosted.

Kalibrr, a trusted recruitment platform in Southeast Asia, compiles its annual list based on jobseeker feedback, thirdparty data, and HR insights. Its

“NTop 50 Employers are companies that offer not only competitive opportunities but also a work environment where individuals feel seen and supported.

For SMX, the recognition is a step forward. Michael Albaña , vice president and general manager at SMHCC, acknowledged the efforts behind the milestone, crediting the company’s HR team and the company’s broader leadership.

“This recognition is meaningful to us,” said Albaña. “While we know

EVER say never.” I was reminded of this last week when I found myself at the iQOS Forever Curious launch.

I never imagined stepping into a vaping event. Anything related to smoking or vaping has always been a hard pass for me. Growing up asthmatic, I never touched a cigarette, much less tried vaping. So when the invitation to the “Forever Curious” campaign launch arrived, my instinctive reaction was to decline. But something tugged at me, aligned with the very theme of the campaign. I got curious.

Curiosity, I learned from the event, does not always lead to indulgence. Sometimes, it leads to insight.

I showed up with an open mind, fully aware that I wasn’t the intended market. But I also know many people who are friends and relatives who have struggled to quit smoking and who suffer, or risk suffering, from the very real consequences of that habit. And while the ideal is to quit completely, we must also recognize

there is always room to grow, it affirms our shared efforts in creating a culture where people can thrive and do meaningful work. I’d like to thank our committed HR team and our parent company, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., for setting the groundwork for the company culture we continue to build today.”

SMX is preparing to open new properties in the coming years, and

employers

this acknowledgment from Kalibrr arrives at a time when company culture matters more than ever. At a time when many organizations are reassessing what kind of workplace they want to be, SMX is already clear on its direction.

“We’re a work in progress— but we’re moving forward with purpose and heart,” Albaña added.

“Being named one of Kalibrr’s Top 50 Employers is a reminder that progress happens when people work together toward something bigger than themselves.”

The power of curiosity How staying curious leads to growth

that cold turkey isn’t a universal solution. Some need bridges (not walls) and stepping stones to healthier habits.

I couldn’t help but reflect on how relevant this idea was outside of the product. In a time when judgment often precedes understanding, being “forever curious” could be the very thing that saves us from ignorance, from stubbornness, from staying stuck. When it comes to habits, healing, or hope, the willingness to stay curious leads us closer to clarity.

At the core of IQOS’ new campaign is this understanding. They are not marketing to teens or curious non-smokers but are speaking directly to existing adult smokers who are looking for a better alternative. That nuance matters.

The science behind IQOS focuses not on eliminating nicotine because, as the brand repeatedly clarifies, it’s not the nicotine but the burning that causes the most harm. Traditional cigarettes, as the brand explained, combust tobacco at high temperatures, releasing thousands of harmful chemicals. In contrast, IQOS’ “heat-not-burn” technology heats tobacco just enough to release flavor and nicotine without the smoke. It’s a bold claim— less harm, without cutting the ritual cold. Of course, we can run a debate on this. But the event was not just about the innovation. It was about perspective. During the evening, the brand officially launched “Forever Curious,” a new global campaign that invites legal-age nicotine users to stay open, stay searching, and stay questioning the norms. The message was clear: curiosity is a mindset that opens up better possibilities. And in life, just like in smoking alternatives, that’s where progress begins.

In his speech, IQOS brand manager Henry Martin Yap emphasized, “Because when you shift your perspective, new choices open up that are worth exploring— like IQOS, which is all about better alternatives. It’s innovation with intention, grounded in science and guided with purpose.”

The night also unveiled Curious X, a curated community experience designed to engage adult users in meaningful ways through discovery, connection, and creativity. The initiative aims to strengthen an ecosystem where curiosity is celebrated. What struck me most was that the brand wasn’t positioning itself as a final answer but as a bridge—a transition space. And maybe that’s what we need more of—not finality, but transformation.

It was a relaxing evening, but it also managed to spark something internal. In the midst of the polished brand messaging, I was encouraged to reflect on change, choice, and curiosity.

So, yes, again, I left with a better understanding—not just of IQOS and its positioning, but of the quiet, powerful force of curiosity. And how, when used with purpose, it can lead us—whether in health, career, or life—toward better alternatives.

My stance has not changed. I still believe that the healthiest choice is not to start the habit at all. But listening to the brand executives offered a glimpse into the journeys of those who are trying, in their own ways, to change. As PMFTC Inc. president Gijs De Beest said, “As long as people are aware of what they are choosing, understand what they’re choosing, and then make a considerable choice, that’s all we need.” True enough, there is power in staying open-minded. Sometimes, that’s how understanding begins. Curiosity, when applied with discernment and due diligence, can be a powerful tool for growth—even in unexpected places.

For your random thoughts, email the author at randomrepublika@gmail.com.

SMX Convention Center joins ranks of top Philippine

The team behind SMX Convention Center’s continued commitment to service and

SMX executives and team members come together to celebrate a shared culture of service, professionalism, and growth

Very Wang Nickie Wang

Random Talk

Kate Adajar

IQOS brand manager Henry Martin Yap emphasizes the message of ‘innovation with intention’ at the Forever Curious campaign launch

PMFTC Inc.

Gijs De Beest

TRANSPORT BUILDING THE FUTURE:

FA LOOK AT THE GOV’T INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMS

Big-ticket projects reshape PH commute

OR generations, the daily commute in Metro Manila and its surrounding provinces has been synonymous with lost hours, missed moments, and dwindling productivity.

But a significant shift is underway, spearheaded by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) under Secretary Vince Dizon, who is fasttracking major infrastructure projects to give back precious time to Filipino commuters.

The DOTr’s vision is clear: move beyond the old paradigm of simply building more roads. Dizon said that to make commuting convenient and comfortable for commuters, the DOTr is building infrastructure that is commuter-centric, as well as encouraging car owners to use public transportation.

“Building high-capacity mass transit, building more walkways for people to walk, for people to bike, is really the way to go,” Sec. Dizon said. He cited projects such as the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP), North-South Commuter Railway System (NSCR), EDSA Busway modernization, and MRT-7, among others. NSCR is one of the key projects that would help decongest Metro Manila roads. A flagship project under the “Build Better More” program, it is a mega railway network spanning 148 km., with 37 stations and 464 train cars and encompassing three segments―the PNR Clark Phase 1 (TutubanMalolos), PNR Clark Phase 2 (Malolos-Clark) and PNR Calamba (Solis-Calamba).

The mass transport project will run across 26 cities and municipalities in Central Luzon, National Capital Region and Calabarzon.

savings, amount of quality time spent with family, and the amount of productivity that we can gain from all of these transportation projects, so we have to finish them,” he said.

Dizon also said that the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7) will be operational for passengers by 2027.

The speedy completion of the MRT-7 after more than a decade of delay is in compliance with the President’s order to expedite the project to speed up and make the commute more comfortable for commuters so they can relax and have time for family.

“I am very confident that the MRT-7 will be completed before the end of President Bongbong Marcos’ term. So by 2027, all our countrymen will be able to ride it,” Dizon said.

Currently, the overall progress of the MRT-7 is at 83.08 percent and is expected to serve 600,000 passengers per day in its first year of operation.

The project aims to serve over 800,000 passengers daily once it becomes fully operational. The Clark to Valenzuela segment of the P874-billion NSCR System will start operations by 2028.

The Metro Manila Subway is projected to begin full operations in 2032. Billed as the Philippines’ “Crown Jewel” of mass transit system, the Metro Manila Subway will cut across eight cities stretching from Valenzuela City to FTI-Bicutan in Parañaque City with a spur line to NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City.

The 33-kilometer and 17-station rail line aims to cut travel time between Quezon City and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in

Pasay City from the present one hour and 10 minutes to just 35 minutes.

Once operational, the underground railway system can service up to 370,000 passengers daily.

“The solution does not lie in building more roads, more wider roads. The solution lies in building high-capacity infrastructures for the commuters,” he explained.

Once the subway and Manila-Pampanga train system are completed, the four-hour commuting from Pampanga and Bulacan to Metro Manila and vice versa will be cut down to 30 minutes to one hour, the transport chief pointed out.

“This is game changing in the amount of

The MRT-7 project is a 22-kilometer elevated railway that will connect North Avenue in Quezon City to San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, with 14 stations.

Once operational, it is expected to significantly cut travel time, decongest major road corridors, and improve mobility across Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

Active Transportation

Dizon also said that the government is pushing for active transport-friendly infrastructure tol attract and encourage more Filipinos to use bicycles and walk to and from their destinations.

“Also making the environment in the city conducive for the people to walk. It’s so important. How can they walk if there is no infrastructure that will allow them to walk?” he said.

Darwin G. Amojelar

Vince Dizon

INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMS

Easing the daily grind: DOTr seeks to ease commuter struggles

“FOCUS on the small things because they’re not really small; they’re actually very huge for daily commuters.”

This, according to Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, is a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the Department of Transportation.

“In the DOTr, he [President Marcos ] instructed us to refocus on the daily struggles our people face when it comes to public transportation,”Dizon said. The President’s instruction highlights an understanding that even seemingly minor inconveniences accumulate into significant hardships for the riding public, underscoring the administration’s commitment to making everyday commutes more bearable and efficient.

Given this, Dizon is prioritizing tangible improvements for daily commuters through several key initiatives for the MRT-3. These include increasing the number of train cars from three to four, aiming to significantly reduce wait times, and the strategic removal of X-ray machines at all stations.

Dizon said that commuters are already experiencing shorter lines at the MRT-3, particularly during rush hour, following the removal of X-ray machines from baggage inspection areas.

He noted a dramatic improvement from 2019, when waiting for a train could take one to two hours. Now, even during peak times, the wait for the MRT-3 has been slashed to a mere five to ten minutes.

Despite the removal of the X-ray machines, Dizon assured the public that security at train stations remains stringent. This is maintained through the visible presence of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), deployment of K9 units, and enhanced security camera surveillance, ensuring both efficiency and safety for all passengers.

To further enhance commuter experience, the DOTr has extended the evening operating hours of the MRT-3 by an hour.

This means that the last train departing from North Avenue now leaves at 10:30 PM, while the last train from Taft Avenue departs at 11:09 PM. This extension aims to provide more flexibility and convenience for passengers, especially those who work late.

Beyond the MRT-3, the DOTr’s focus on “small things” extends to other crucial transport hub such as the EDSA Busway.

commuters.

EDSA Busway Modernization

The DOTr has completed the installation of station timers on the EDSA Busway, and deployed the Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT) to ensure smoother operations and enhanced safety for

Additionally, the rehabilitation of elevators at the stations has been completed, making the EDSA Busway more PWD-friendly Last March, the DOTr and SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SMPHI) opened the SM North EDSA Busway

concourse. This state-of-the-art facility, serving as a key interchange in Quezon City, provides commuters with seamless access to the EDSA Busway, connecting them to various transportation options and nearby commercial establishments.

The new facility features well-lit and covered walkways, with ramps and elevators that ensure accessibility for all commuters, particularly senior citizens, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The EDSA Busway Project is a flagship initiative of the DOTr that is supported by the DPWH and MMDA. It aims to enhance mass transit efficiency, safety, and accessibility along EDSA, Metro Manila’s main thoroughfare.

To fast-track the development of well-structured and efficiently managed concourses, the DOTr partnered with private stakeholders like SMPHI.

Streamlining NAIA Immigration

To improve the passenger experience at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), electronic gates (e-gates) will soon be deployed to speed up and streamline immigration processing.

Dizon said the installation of e-gates is part of the government’s effort to ensure smooth travel experience, stressing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s instruction to prioritize the convenience and safety of passengers.

Co-Building the Commute Every Filipino Deserves

By Booey Bonifacio

IN THE Philippines, the daily commute is often a test of patience, endurance, and luck. For millions of Filipinos, mobility can be a daily struggle defined by long queues and even the doubt of being able to secure a ride. But mobility should not be a privilege. It is a right—one that shapes economic opportunity, social inclusion, and quality of life. That belief is what drives us at Grab Philippines, and it was the heart of Secretary Vince Dizon’s keynote at the recent EJAP Transport Forum: a call for a people-first, accountable transport system.

We couldn’t agree more. At Grab, our mission has never been to simply move people from point A to B. It is to reimagine what the daily journey can be: safer, more reliable, and anchored in dignity for both passengers and transport workers. It’s a vision rooted in three fundamental pillars: safety, reliability, and livelihood.

Safety Is Non-Negotiable Public trust is earned one ride at a time. For that, safety cannot be left to chance.

We’ve pioneered tools to make transport more secure—not just for our platform, but across the industry.

Real-time ride monitoring, driver fatigue alerts, and passenger identity verification are just a few of the safeguards now in place.

More recently, we introduced AudioProtect—an audio-first safety feature that records trip audio securely, deterring misconduct while protecting privacy. This month, we launched AudioProtect Plus, using AI to detect aggressive sounds or distress, enabling real-time interventions during rides. But technology alone is not enough. Safety is also about people. We invest heavily in professionalizing our drivers and riders—through mandatory training, service standards, and, recently, a partnership with Ateneo’s Bulatao Center for behaviorbased safety programs. Because behind every secure trip is a trained, accountable transport professional. Productivity and Reliability Go Hand in Hand

For commuters, reliability is everything. But reliability starts with empowered drivers.

When drivers can serve more passengers efficiently, the system works better — queues shorten, wait times drop, and people get where they need to go. Just as the DOTr is working to make queues for buses and trains more efficient, we are equally committed to optimizing the ‘online

by

our hardworking drivers with the tools to be more productive and serve more passengers reliably.

We support this with tools like GrabMaps, demand heatmaps, and navigation systems—guiding drivers to underserved areas, optimizing routes, and reducing idle time. Whether through GrabCar fleets in Metro Manila or MOVE IT’s motorcycle taxis providing agile lastmile options, we complement mass transport to build a more resilient mobility network.

Transport Jobs Should Lead to Growth Finally, no transport system can be called successful if its worker —the drivers and riders behind the wheel —remain trapped in economic precarity.

That’s why we believe transport work must evolve beyond temporary gig roles. Programs like GrabAsenso provide microloans to ease financial strain; GrabScholar funds education for partners’ children; and GrabAcademy offers digital and financial upskilling. We also provide medical assistance, insurance coverage, and 24/7 partner support—protections designed to professionalize and stabilize livelihoods.

A Commute Built on Human Impact Secretary Dizon spoke of accountability—not just from government, but across the entire mobility ecosystem. At Grab, we share that responsibility.

The future of transport may be electric, automated, and data-driven. But at its core, it must be human — where every innovation translates to a safer ride, a more reliable system, and a livelihood that uplifts.

Every Filipino commuter deserves a transport experience that works— safe, reliable, and efficient. Progress will not come overnight. But through shared commitment, collaboration, and technology designed with people at the center, we can build a transport system worthy of every Filipino.

pila’ on our platform —

equipping

Grab Philippines Director for Mobility EJ Dela Vega, Head of Mobility Marketplace Clarize Morito, and EV Taxi Corp President Frankie Ang and COO Erik Ke check in with pioneering drivers of GrabTaxi Electric — the country’s first fully electric, on-demand taxi fleet — as the program rolls out across key Metro Manila cities.

Grab and MOVE IT, in collaboration with the Ateneo Bulatao Center for Psychological Services, are integrating psychological and behavioral principles into their driver onboarding and training programs – reinforcing their strong commitment to safety on the road.

Grab and MOVE IT driver-partners volunteered and participated in the three-day

first-aid safety training program facilitated by the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office

FRIDAY, JUNE 27, 2025

extrastory2000@gmail.com

Darwin G. Amojelar, Issue Editor

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said it is eyeing to privatize 10 regional airports before the end of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

“Im quite confident that we can PPP 10 more airports by 2028 and this is a commitment I was bold enough to make to the President,” Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said.

Dizon said that the airports slated for privatization by 2028 are Iloilo, Davao, Siargao, Laoag, Busuanga, Bicol, Tacloban, Bacolod-Silay, General Santos, and Puerto Princesa.

Some airports, he said , would be bundled together to make them more viable and appealing to the private sector.

Dizon said that the Marcos administration has privatized more airports than any other administration in the past.

“To date, it has already privatized three. The biggest one, obviously, is NAIA, which is huge. With San Miguel Corporation running it, it shows that privatization really works, because the services are better. You have shorter lines, you have more, there is less congestion in the driveways, and it’s just a better airport experience.,” he said.

The SMC SAP Company Consortium— comprising San Miguel Holdings Corp.,

BUILDING THE FUTURE: A LOOK AT

THE GOV’T INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMS

10 more airports to go private by 2028

RMM Asian Logistics Inc., RLW Aviation Development Inc., and Incheon International Airport Corp.—secured the P171 billion contract to rehabilitate, operate, and maintain NAIA. Their winning bid offered the government an 82.16 percent revenue share, the highest proposed.

Dizon also noted the government has already turned over operations of Laguindingan International Airport to Aboitiz InfraCapital, with Panglao International Airport set for a similar turnover by June.

AIC, the DOTr and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines signed in October 2024 a P12.75-billion concession agreement for AIC to undertake the development and modernization of Laguindingan International Airport over a 30-year period.

Other core facilities include the air traffic control building, car parks, aircraft rescue and firefighting building, administration building, maintenance building, and other utilities infrastructure such as the airport’s power supply system, water supply network, sewerage network and storm water drain network.

Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) is investing P4.53 billion in the Bohol-Panglao International Airport to expand its passenger terminal, install modern aviation systems, and enhance airside and landside facilities.

Within one to two years of takeover, AIC plans to increase BPIA’s annual passenger capacity from 2 million to 2.5 million, with further expansions targeting 3.9 million passengers per year by 2030. Darwin G. Amojelar

TRANSPORT BUILDING THE FUTURE: A

LOOK AT THE GOV’T INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMS

Infrastructure dev’t: Key to economic growth

EVERY day, for millions of Filipinos, the commute begins not with anticipation, but with a sigh. It’s a daily ritual of lost hours, missed moments, and a quiet erosion of productivity, played out on choked roads and in overcrowded terminals.

This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a symptom of a deeper challenge, one laid bare by a recent study from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS): the Philippines is falling behind its Southeast Asian neighbors in transport infrastructure development. This stark reality casts a long shadow over the nation’s ability to sustain economic growth and compete on the global stage.

Authored by PIDS Senior Research Fellow Dr. Kris Francisco, the study titled, “ Transport Infrastructure in the Philippines: From Plans to Actual Allocation,” reveals significant gaps in the country’s transport systems, particularly in railways, ports, and airport efficiency, compared to the well-developed networks of other nations in the region.

Among the eight ASEAN nations, the Philippines ranks the lowest in infrastructure adequacy, signaling an urgent need for reforms and increased investment.

A key finding of the study relates to the inefficiency of the country’s air transport systems.

“The Ninoy Aquino International Airport [NAIA], the Philippines’ main air gateway, was listed as the fourth worst airport in Asia in 2024, with a score of 2.78 out of 10,” Francisco noted, citing ongoing challenges in passenger capacity and operational efficiency.

In 2016, NAIA exceeded its maximum capacity by 4.6 million passengers, surpassing its 35-million-passenger limit, highlighting the urgent need for upgrades.

Railway infrastructure also presents significant gaps. The Philippines remains to have a relatively undeveloped railway infrastructure among ASEAN countries, with a railway density indicator of only 1.52 km/sq. km, the lowest in the region. While multiple railway projects are in the pipeline, much work remains to meet growing demands.

On a positive note, the Philippines boasts the highest number of ports in ASEAN, attributed to its archipelagic geography. However, the quality of ports remains a concern.

“Several studies have revealed the weaknesses of Philippine ports, raising issues such as the lack of port facilities, lesser capacity, as well as the unfortunate combination of high prices for port services albeit underdeveloped ports,” Francisco explained. These factors make the country’s ports less competitive compared to regional counterparts.

The study further acknowledges the government’s efforts to prioritize infrastructure development across various Philippine Development Plans (PDP).

The PDP 2023–2028 sets ambitious targets for annual public infrastructure spending, ranging from 5 to 6 percent of GDP, focusing on modernizing and expanding transport systems, addressing

mobility issues, and collaborating with private and multilateral partners.

Budget allocations for the Department of Transportation (DOTr) have consistently favored the rail transport program. However, the study notes uncertainty over whether these funds have been used to expand the railway network or simply maintain operations. Similarly, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has prioritized programs such as flood management and asset preservation, but integrating funding data with project specifics remains a challenge. Despite the abovementioned hurdles, the report outlines promising initiatives, including airport upgrades, new railway projects, and plans to enhance port facilities.

It emphasizes the importance of allocating resources to improve the quality and adequacy of transport infrastructure to resolve gaps and stay competitive with ASEAN neighbors. Creating a comprehensive infrastructure database would also improve planning and help optimize government spending and project execution.

As the Philippines bridges the infrastructure gap, strategic investments and comprehensive planning will be essential in shaping the country’s future growth and regional standing, Francisco concluded.

FRIDAY, JUNE 27, 2025 extrastory2000@gmail.com

BUILDING THE FUTURE:

A LOOK AT THE GOV’T INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMS

NAIA’s ambitious revamp takes off

FOR decades, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has been a symbol of both gateway and frustration for travelers.

Plagued by congestion, aging facilities, and frequent operational glitches, it often found itself on lists of the world’s least desirable airports. But a new chapter has begun. The government has privatized the operations and maintenance of NAIA, entrusting its transformation to San Miguel Corporation (SMC) and its subsidiary, the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC). This partnership promises a world-class overhaul for the country’s primary gateway.

Since officially taking over operations and maintenance on September 14, 2024, the SMCled consortium, which includes the renowned Incheon International Airport Corporation, has embarked on an ambitious P170 billion modernization project.

“You can already see it and feel that a lot of changes have already come in just in the last eight months that San Miguel has taken over and I believe you’re going to see a lot more significant changes,” Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said.

The immediate impact of the takeover has been tangible. Within the first few months, NNIC focused on quick-win improvements to enhance passenger comfort and operational reliability. Travelers have already noticed refurbished and new toilets, increased seating capacity, and improved air-conditioning.

The notoriously unreliable power supply is also being tackled head-on, with NNIC partnering with Meralco to install a dedicated 115KV substation and implement an underground power distribution network.

This aims to prevent the frustrating power outages that have disrupted operations in the past.

Connectivity has also seen a significant boost. Collaborations with PLDT/Smart and Converge have led to faster and more reliable free Wi-Fi,

now extended to three hours with no personal information required. Baggage handling, a frequent source of passenger woes, is being upgraded with a new and advanced system to minimize lost luggage incidents.

Beyond these immediate fixes, NNIC is laying the groundwork for more transformative changes. One of the most significant initiatives is the planned reassignment of terminals to optimize efficiency and reduce congestion.

The demolition of the abandoned Philippine Village Hotel is also underway to make way for a new passenger hub with an annual capacity of 35 million guests. This expansion, along with improvements to existing terminals, is projected to increase NAIA’s overall passenger capacity from 35 million to a remarkable 62 million

annually, and air traffic movements from 42 to 48 per hour.

Road access is also a key focus. NNIC is expanding arrival curbsides at all terminals, with Terminal 1 going from 3 to 8 lanes, Terminal 2 from 4 to 8 lanes, and Terminal 3 from 8 to 12 lanes. A new off-ramp connecting the NAIA Expressway to Terminal 3 is also in the works, promising smoother traffic flow. To manage congestion further, a centralized ride-hailing and taxi hub has been launched at Terminal 3.

Looking further ahead, the long-term vision includes linking Terminal 3 to the Metro Manila Subway, integrating self-check-in kiosks, selfbag-drop services, and biometric systems for faster processing, and implementing advanced systems for air traffic management, such as an electronic flight strip system and a lightning

warning system.

As SMC continues to steer NAIA through its comprehensive transformation, the promise of a truly world-class airport for the Philippines, capable of handling the increasing demands of global travel and tourism, is steadily becoming a reality. The once beleaguered gateway is finally shedding its old skin, poised to welcome the world with efficiency, comfort, and pride.

“NAIA has long been operating way beyond its intended capacity of 35 million passengers per year. It has been serving around 45 million per year, and this year, we are anticipating reaching more than 50 million. Over the years, this has taken a huge toll on the already aging facilities and equipment at NAIA, leading to inevitable breakdowns and inconvenience for passengers,” NNIC President Ramon S. Ang said.

AirAsia aviation group welcomes seasoned aviation leader Captain Suresh Bangah as president, CEO of AirAsia Philippines

Aviation Group Limited (AAAGL) announces the appointment of Captain Suresh Bangah as president and chief executive officer of AirAsia Philippines as the airline embarks on a new era of sustainable growth.

A seasoned aviation professional with almost 30 years of experience, including over 14 years in senior leadership roles across the AirAsia Group, Captain Suresh brings extensive operational expertise and a strong leadership track record within the AirAsia ecosystem and beyond. He succeeds Ricky Isla, who retires after six years at the helm and will continue to serve as chief advisor to the general manager during the leadership transition.

Captain Suresh most recently served as group director of flight operations at AAAGL, and previously held key roles at AirAsia X Berhad (AAX) including Chief Pilot and Director of Flight Operations.

He began his career with AirAsia in 2003 as a first officer, pilot instructor as well as an Auditor. He was also flight deck recruitment officer in AirAsia Berhad and Chief Pilot of Operations, AAX in 2010 to director of flight operations, AAX in 2013.

Group chief executive officer of AirAsia Aviation Group, Bo Lingam, said: “Captain Suresh steps into this role at an important juncture for AirAsia Philippines. With extensive

industry experience, especially in setting the gold standard on safety and operational excellence and longstanding commitment to AirAsia’s values, he is well-placed to build on the strong foundations laid by Ricky Isla. Under Ricky’s leadership, the airline navigated one of the most turbulent chapters in aviation history during the pandemic, stabilising operations, keeping our people anchored and restoring confidence in the brand. We thank him for his steady leadership and are grateful that he will continue to support the transition as chief advisor.

“As AirAsia progresses into our next chapter, the Philippines remains a key pillar in our regional strategy—with strong potential in inter-island connectivity, and broader regional integration into North Asia and ASEAN, working towards a medium to longer term plan to deliver affordable connectivity to the Middle East and West Coast of the US. I’m confident that under Suresh’s stewardship, the airline will continue to grow sustainably and serve our guests with the operational excellence they deserve.”

AirAsia Philippines president and CEO Captain Suresh Bangah “I am honoured to serve at the helm of AirAsia Philippines and look forward to working with the AirAsia Aviation Group and AirAsia Philippines board members, Group CEO Bo Lingam, Ricky and the local team in one of our core markets to champion a new era of sustainable and profitable growth for the future. With experience both in the cockpit and in senior leadership roles with AirAsia X and the AirAsia Group, I am deeply committed to elevating every aspect of our operations as we continue to focus on providing the very best in terms of safe, affordable and reliable air travel with inflight experience excellence for all Filipinos.” Operational Excellence: Delivering the Best Experience to Guests

The World’s Best Low-Cost Airline expects to expand its operational fleet to 19 aircraft this year to meet robust market demand. Alongside this development, the airline sets a load factor target of 90 percent and will continue with its demand-led network optimization initiative to drive sustainable and profitable growth.

While pursuing these targets, AirAsia remains vigilant in mitigating external challenges including global supply chain disruptions creating delays in aircraft maintenance; rising operational costs due to fuel pricing volatility, environmental hazards and increased airport fees and charges since last year.

“These challenges become opportunities when industry stakeholders engage in open communication, collaboration and alignment. AirAsia will actively seek platforms for dialogues, advocating shared solutions and forging strong partnerships with both government and private sector stakeholders—all in pursuit of delivering the world’s best service to our guests,” added Bangah. Commitment to Democratizing Air Travel Across Asean and Beyond

Staying true to our brand promise of making air travel accessible, AirAsia continues to leverage on various double-digit promo fares and P1SO sales to serve our diverse guest profiles—from students and young professionals with dreams of new adventures, to overseas Filipino workers coming home, and families simply returning to their provinces.

With the widest network across ASEAN and beyond, spanning more than 130 destinations, AirAsia Philippines is poised to bring people closer to what matters most. People at the Core of our Purpose

The airline’s ability to deliver exceptional service and operational excellence is rooted in its people, the Allstars. As aviation evolves, so must the growth and development of our workforce. This means creating more meaningful career opportunities, particularly for cabin crew and pilots, whilst building a workplace that embraces diversity and inclusion, welcoming more female pilots to the airline.. Captain Suresh adds, “AirAsia’s strength lies in its people. I am deeply humbled to be given the opportunity to lead highly talented, well-meaning and energetic Filipino Allstars (employees). As the new CEO, they can count on a leadership that is anchored on integrity, credibility, and accountability, ensuring that the cogs and gears---people, machines and technology work in harmony to create meaningful journeys for Filipinos.”

30 years of experience, including over 14 years

AirAsia Berhad and Chief Pilot of Operations,

chief executive officer

Bangah

team

with

(employees). Capt. Suresh Bangah, AirAsia Philippines president and chief executive officer

TRANSPORT BUILDING THE FUTURE:

A LOOK AT THE GOV’T INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMS

PH bets on cruise tourism with new port projects

THE Philippines is setting sail toward a new era of tourism, with an ambitious nationwide push to construct and modernize cruise ports.

This strategic move aims to capitalize on the surging interest from international cruise lines and foreign visitors, positioning the archipelago as a premier cruise destination in Asia.

According to Transport Secretary Vince Dizon, ongoing cruise port constructions are underway in key tourist hubs, including Coron, Aklan (Boracay), Camiguin, and Puerto Princesa.

“These are all cruise ports designed for our tourist arrivals in tourist areas,” Dizon emphasized, highlighting the government’s focus on enhancing accessibility to popular destinations.

The numbers already reflect a promising trend. Preliminary data from the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) reveals a significant increase in cruise passenger traffic. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, 131,687 passengers disembarked and boarded international cruise vessels in the country.

The PPA also recorded 52 cruise calls at its managed ports during the same period. This builds on the impressive 61.9 percent increase in cruise passenger arrivals by the end of 2024, reaching 142,574 passengers from 88,080 in 2023.

The PPA anticipates this number to further swell to 185,000 cruise passengers this year, a testament to the growing confidence of cruise operators and international tourists in the Philippines.

To sustain this momentum, the PPA is actively allocating funds for the construction of new cruise ship ports, underscoring its unwavering commitment to the sector’s growth.

Beyond infrastructure, the PPA is also strengthening its ties with crucial government agencies, including the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Tourism (DOT), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), to foster a collaborative environment for cruise tourism development and promotion.

A recent high-level meeting on March 5, 2025, saw PPA General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, and PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan convene at the PCG National Headquarters. This gathering aimed to solidify cooperation in improving the country’s ports and other gateways. Earlier discussions between Secretary Dizon and the DOT also centered on strategies to further boost tourism growth.

For PPA General Manager Jay Daniel

Santiago, the ongoing upgrades and new port constructions are pivotal in elevating the country’s profile in the global cruise tourism landscape. “

What we are doing is modernizing and building new ports in fulfillment of our goal of making the Philippines a top global destination in Asia for cruise ships,” Santiago stated.

He further elaborated on the economic ripple effect these developments are expected to create. “With the increase in the number of international cruise vessels visiting, not only this summer but in the coming seasons, this will certainly provide an opportunity for businesses from tour operators to souvenir shops to thrive, and will further increase the recognition of the Philippines as the best cruise destination.”

Popular destinations like the Baclayon Church and Chocolate Hills in Bohol, and the world-class beaches of Boracay, are already drawing significant numbers of cruise tourists.

The PPA’s continued collaboration with local governments and other stakeholders is crucial in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for both passengers and the communities that stand to benefit from the burgeoning cruise tourism industry.

ATRANSPORT BUILDING THE FUTURE: A LOOK AT

THE GOV’T INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMS

Cargo freight operations to integrate with NSCR project

significant shift is on the horizon for the Philippines’ logistical landscape as the Philippine National Railways (PNR)endorsed the integration of cargo freight operations into the ambitious NorthSouth Commuter Railway (NSCR) project.

This 147-kilometer railway line, already set to transform public transportation across Luzon, is now poised to become a dual-purpose economic backbone, carrying both passengers and crucial goods.

“Integrating a cargo train parallel to the NSCR project is an important step towards creating a comprehensive logistics network that will enhance economic efficiency, improve the livelihoods of farmers and fisherfolk, and significantly lower food prices,”

PNR Chairman Michael Ted R. Macapagal said.

This forward-thinking proposal, according to Macapagal, will seamlessly complement the existing $3.2 billion Subic-Clark-ManilaBatangas Railway Corridor (SCMB).

The SCMB project already promises to link major economic hubs by connecting four critical points in Luzon: the Port of Subic, Clark International Airport, Port of Manila, and Port of Batangas.

By adding cargo capabilities to the NSCR, the Philippines is essentially weaving an expansive and interconnected rail network designed to optimize the movement of goods.

Macapagal highlighted that this integration will streamline logistics, reduce transportation costs, and deliver substantial benefits to the national economy, particularly bolstering the vital agricultural and industrial sectors.

The proposal is also expected to bring extensive benefits, including direct urban market access for farmers, potentially increasing incomes by up to 400 percent, and reducing product prices by up to 40 percent, ensuring competitiveness for local products in both domestic and international markets.

Integration promises to create jobs in construction, logistics, and railway operations, contributing to regional development and poverty alleviation. It also supports investments in clean energy, recycling, and renewable technologies through collaborative efforts from the United States and Japan.

Macapagal hopes that the NSCR

and SCMB should be viewed not merely as infrastructure projects but as catalysts for profound economic and social transformation.

“By integrating a cargo component, we ensure these railways serve as lifelines for goods and livelihoods, not just for passengers,” he said.

PH revolutionizes infrastructure oversight

A NEW era of transparency and efficiency in government project monitoring is dawning in the Philippines, with a landmark partnership between the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM). The two agencies formally launched their collaboration for Digital Imaging for Monitoring and Evaluation (DIME)—a technology-driven initiative set to revolutionize how public funds are tracked and utilized for infrastructure development.

agencies will ensure optimal platform performance, rigorous field validation of data, responsible content management, and targeted capacity-building interventions for all stakeholders.

Complementing the DIME initiative, the DPWH is also spearheading a significant digital breakthrough in infrastructure inspections with its Fortified Operations and Maintenance Geospatial Survey (OMGS) mobile application.

Project DIME, a DBM-led initiative, is designed to enhance the transparent and efficient use of public funds, particularly for marginalized communities. It achieves this by leveraging cutting-edge technologies like satellites, drones, and geotagging.

DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan emphasized that this partnership aligns perfectly with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas vision, where technology strengthens governance, data informs infrastructure development, and transparency is embedded in every aspect of public service.

As part of this collaboration, the DPWH, through its Bureau of Construction (BOC), Finance Service (FS), Information Management Service, and Stakeholders Relations Service, will work closely with the DBM to enhance the DIME website.

This effort focuses on improving transparency and accessibility through real-time project updates, rich multimedia content, and seamless Geographic Information Systems (GIS) integration.

Continuous coordination between both

Recognized as a notable capstone project from the Public Management Development Program (PMDP) of the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), the OMGS app is the brainchild of Engr. Glenn S. Degal, Chief of the Project Operation and Maintenance Management Division under the Public-Private Partnership Service (PPPS).

The OMGS app represents a paradigm shift from traditional, often cumbersome manual inspection processes. Historically, inspectors relied on handwritten reports and fragmented communication, leading to delays in issue resolution and reduced operational transparency.

Now, with the Fortified OMGS app, inspectors can collect real-time geotagged data, generate automated reports, and ensure seamless coordination among inspectors, concessionaires, and government agencies. By using mobile devices, they can document infrastructure conditions on-site and instantly transmit their findings to a centralized digital platform, dramatically improving efficiency, accuracy, and accountability.

This innovation directly supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to enhance public service delivery and highlights the forwardthinking leadership of Bonoan. Through the Fortified OMGS app, the DPWH is reinforcing the government’s commitment to smarter, faster, and more transparent infrastructure management across the Philippines.