PBBM hits corrupt officials
‘Shame on you’: ‘Ghost’ flood control projects, substandard infra
By Charles Dantes
RESIDENT
“ghost” flood-control projects, especially after the series of typhoons that left a trail of devastation across several parts of the country.
Killers of missing sabungeros to
pay; silent on online
gaming
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday placed the unresolved cases of missing “sabungeros” at the center of his administration’s fight against organized crime, vowing to bring to justice those behind their disappearances.
In his State of the Nation Address, Mr. Marcos directly blamed criminal syndicates operating “e-sabong” for the spate of disappearances that has gripped national attention since before his presidency began.
“We are working together across the whole of government to solve the cases of those who went missing because of the ruthless acts of syndicates behind this dark world of cockfighting,” Mr. Marcos said in Filipino.
“We will pursue and hold accountable the masterminds and all those involved, civilian or official. No one is above the law,” President Marcos
President Marcos also acknowledged that while crime statistics may show a decline, many Filipinos, especially victims,
Marcos rolls out socio-economic programs
By Charles Dantes, Ram Superable, Alena Mae Flores, Othel Campos and Rex Espiritu
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. vowed to further strengthen socio-eco-
nomic programs to uplift the lives of ordinary Filipinos, touting the free basic accommodation in all Department of Health hospitals, the expansion of the “Walang Gutom” initiative, and the effort to ensure electricity connection for an additional
to help struggling Pinoys
one million households through solar home systems, among others.
“If we talk about data alone, our economy is doing well and business confidence has increased. Inflation eased and employment also went up,” Mr. Marcos said
in his fourth State of the Nation Address. “But all of these are just decorations and meaningless if our countrymen are struggling and burdened with their lives,” he added.
Escudero, Romualdez retain 20th Congress posts
By Ram Superable, Maricel Cruz
AS EXPECTED, Senate President Francis Escudero and First District Rep. Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez were reelected as Senate President and
Speaker of the House of Representatives of the 20th Congress.
Escudero retained his post, securing 19 votes after Senator Joel Villanueva nominated him to lead the 24-member chamber for another term.
Returning Senator Vicente ‘Tito’ Sotto went unsuccessful in challenging Escudero for the position, securing the minority leadership instead with Senators Panfilo ‘Ping’ Lacson, Risa Hontiveros, Juan Miguel
By Charles Dantes
champion,” referring to his walkover victory in the charity boxing match on Sunday against Davao City Acting Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte. “Let’s also include our new champion, PNP Chief Nick Torre. Chief PNP was surprised,” Mr.Marcos quipped during his fourth State of the Nation
Speaker stands by House move on impeachment
By Maricel V. Cruz and Ram Superable
LEYTE First District Rep. Martin Romualdez has maintained that impeachment process is an exclusive mandate of Congress, taking exceptions to a Supreme Court (SC) ruling that the initiative to oust President Sara Duterte was unconstitutional. Romualdez issued his argument in remarks following his assumption as Speaker of the House..
“And today, as we formally begin this new chapter, we do so amid a development that once again calls us to reflect on our sacred constitutional duty — the Supreme Court’s (SC) decision on the impeachment case filed against the Vice President,” Romualdez said.
“Let me say this with the utmost respect: The Supreme Court has spoken, and we recognize its decision. But let it never be said that the House of the People bowed in silence,” he added.
“At the same time, we draw a line: the power to initiate impeachment is the exclusive domain of this Chamber. It flows from the people’s will and rests solely on the clear language of the Constitution. It is neither granted nor guided by any outside institution,” he asserted.
By Charles Dantes
Top left photo shows the audience inside tha Batasang Pambansa while bottom left photo shows militants burning effigies during a protest rally along Commonwealth Avenue. Revoli Cortez, Manny Palmero
TAKING THE LEAD. Senate President Francis Escudero, left, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez take their oath of office after being
as leaders of the 20th Congress.
Biz groups back, laud SONA message
By Othel V. Campos, Alena Mae S. Flores
TOP industry leaders from the International Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ICC) and the Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) expressed strong support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA), praising his message as forward-looking, people-centered, and grounded in inclusive reforms.
ICC chairman Francis Chua said it was one of the very best SONA speeches he has heard in a long time, adding that the President’s sincerity and determination to uplift the poor and fight corruption were unmistakable.
“He promised to help the poor and was very tough on corruption. I believe he can deliver all of his promises within his term.”
Chua welcomed the administration’s push for better education, health care, and transportation, saying the focus on making essential services free for all
“Don’t doubt the President,” Chua said.
remain fearful.
“Even if the crime rate is said to be dropping, no statistics can ease the anxiety of our people,” the president said.
“That is why our police forces are on the ground, visible and ready to respond to any call of duty within five minutes,” he added.
The president also touted his administration’s intensified anti-drug campaign, reporting the seizure of over P83 billion worth of illegal drugs in the past three years, including major shipments recently intercepted in Zambales, Pangasinan, Cagayan, Tondo, Muntinlupa, Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, Cebu, Batangas, Rizal, and Cavite.
Last month, President Marcos personally witnessed the destruction of nearly 1.5 tons of shabu and other illicit substances in Tarlac.
According to the president, more than 153,000 individuals have been arrested in drug-related operations under his administration, including over 9,600 high-value targets.
Alarmingly, 677 of those arrested were government personnel, among them, more than 100 elected officials and over 50 police officers.
“In just three years, we have nearly equaled the total arrests of the previous administration,” he said.
Despite these gains, President Marcos warned that drug dealers appear to be reemerging, prompting the need for sustained and intensified operations against illegal drugs.
“So, our operations against drug dealers continue, whether they are big-time or small-time,” he By Charles Dantes
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. remained silent on the future of online gambling during his fourth State of the Nation Address on Monday, amid calls from lawmakers and advocacy groups for stronger action to curb what they describe as a growing social crisis.
President Marcos, in his speech, emphasized national unity and progress across economic and social fronts, but did not announce new measures against online gambling, a divisive issue that has drawn mounting attention from both legislators and public advocacy groups.
Address, aligning him to Philippine sports legends.
He also cited sports legends and rising stars such as Senator Manny Pacquiao, Hidilyn Diaz, Caloy Yulo, EJ Obiena, Nesthy Petecio, Alex Eala, and Paralympians Jerrold Mangliwan, Cendy Asusano, Angel Mae Otom, and Ernie Gawilan as role models for aspiring athletes.
Torre ended up as the winner by default in the boxing match that the PNP organized after Baste, the youngest son of former president Rodrigo Duterte, publicly dared the police chief to engage him in a combat sport.
“I have a lot of work and this is not worth responding to,” Torre said when asked if he would still entertain a future challenge from the mayor, who fled to Singapore with his family last Friday.
Torre declined further discussion, stating that all had been said and done, and that continued attention to Baste’s statements about rescheduling the match would be illogical.
Filipinos sets a strong tone of compassion and capability. “I have a lot of expectations, and I’m being sincere. I’m with the President,” he added.
Dispelling comparisons to past regimes, Chua said, “the previous Marcos was a dictator, but the son is not. He will be a very popular president.”
Meanwhile, Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) chair Elizabeth “Beth” Lee welcomed the President’s emphasis on inclusive growth, rural development, and industrial revitalization, particularly measures that directly benefit local producers and manufacturers.
FPI lauded the support extended to 2.5 million families starting micro-
businesses, calling for their deeper integration into domestic manufacturing and supply chains.
“We applaud initiatives such as the expansion of Kadiwa markets and the firm stance against economic sabotage by profiteers and smugglers,” Lee said.
The group also backed major agroindustrial programs, including the planting of 15 million coconut trees and the rollout of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act.
FPI praised the administration’s commitment to address energy constraints through the planned construction of 200 new power plants for 2,000 factories and the expansion of the Net Metering Program for sustainable energy access.
Water woes hit
with rice hoarders and profiteers, service providers liable for water and power interruptions, and those responsible for substandard infrastructure projects.
“Shame on you. Be ashamed because our fellow Filipinos were swept by floods or were submerged in floodwaters. Be ashamed of our children who will inherit that debt incurred because of what you committed, because you pocketed the funds,” he said.
“Let us not pretend anymore. The whole public already knows the racketeering going on involving the projects –kickbacks, initiative, errata, SOP (standard operating procedures), ‘for the boys.’”
“Recently, I inspected the effects of the southwest monsoon, cyclones Crising, Dante and Emong. I clearly saw for myself that many flood control projects were failures, and there were others that existed just in the imagination,”
Mr. Marcos said.
His strong message came even as Mr. Marcos issued a unity call to all lawmakers, saying the result of the May midterm polls where the administration slate secured fewer than expected seats in the Senate showed Filipinos are unhappy with politicking and find government service delivery slow.
“For all of us here, let us set aside our differences and let us unite on three things that bind us all: our being Filipino, our being patriots, and our sworn duty to serve the people,” Mr. Marcos said.
“The message of the election results is clear to me: Our people are disappointed and dismayed with the government, especially when it comes to frontline services. The lesson for us is simple: We need to do better, and we need to do it faster,” he added.
Substandard, ‘ghost’ floodcontrol projects
The President ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways to submit a list of all flood control projects
from every region that were started or completed in the last three years.
“Second, the regional project monitoring committee shall examine that list of projects and give a report on those that had been failures, those that were not finished, and those that were alleged to be ghost projects,” he said.
“The public needs to know the truth. People must be held accountable for the massive flooding and the corruption that led to this,” the President added.
He said he would reject any proposed item in the 2026 national budget that is not fully aligned with the government’s National Expenditure Program (NEP), adding he is prepared to return the bill to Congress even if it results in a reenacted budget.
No more low-quality infra projects
The President also warned there is no room for corruption in implementing infrastructure projects under the “Build Better More” program.
This, as he expressed dismay over the deteriorating state of critical infrastructures, such as the Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge in Isabela and the San Juanico Bridge that stretches from Samar to Leyte Island.
He lamented that the Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge was “destroyed so quickly” even after it was retrofitted.
He also expressed disappointment over the failure to properly maintain the San Juanico Bridge, the longest bridge along the Pan-Philippine Highway, which was built in August 1969 and completed in 1973 to connect Luzon and Mindanao.
“In projects, we will not tolerate and allow corruption in supervision, design and construction failures, low-quality and fragile materials, project delays, and neglect of proper maintenance and repair,” Mr. Marcos said.
“This should not be the case. In ‘Build Better More,’ the welfare and safety of the people are of utmost importance. Projects must be designed correctly. They must be of high quality. They must be completed on time. And they must be well cared for and maintained,” he added.
opening of the 20th Congress.
‘Migz’ Zubiri, and Loren Legarda.
“We are here to serve our people, guided by our conscience, driven by our conviction, and emboldened by courage,” Escudero said during his speech.
Escudero called on senators to rise above political divisions and work toward common goals such as lowering living costs, improving healthcare and education, creating jobs, and strengthening the country’s infrastructure and legal framework.
Romualdez, on the other hand, secured a second back-to-back term with overwhelming support from the chamber’s supermajority coalition upon Monday’s
Meanwhile, 4Ps party-list Rep. Marcelino Libanan was installed as Minority Leader of the House. Libanan received the unanimous support of 29 other minority members during a caucus held on Monday, officially securing the leadership of the 30-strong bloc. Libanan also served as House Minority Leader in the 19th Congress.
In another development, Davao City congressmen Paolo Duterte, Omar Duterte, and Isidro Ungab, and Pwersa ng Pilipinong Pandaragat (PPP) party-list Rep. Harold Duterte, declared themselves independent members of the House after abstaining from the Speaker election, choosing to remain unaffiliated with either the majority or minority blocs.
others fear the storm, your House holds the line,” he stressed.
The President also vowed firm government action against those responsible for poor water delivery in the country.
He said he had personally reviewed the report from the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) detailing widespread complaints against several water districts and their private partners.
“I have seen the report. LWUA is taking steps against the poor service of water districts and their joint venture partners. LWUA will ensure that water services for millions of our countrymen are restored and prices are made more affordable,” he said.
“Above all, we will ensure that those who neglect and fail in this important public service are held accountable,” he added.
Malacañang earlier confirmed that the President approved the recommendation of LWUA amid the mounting complaints over water service interruptions involving the private water utility firm PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation.
This, after several local governments and consumers have raised issues over PrimeWater’s service quality.
Economic sabotage charges for agri price manipulators
The President likewise promised to take decisive action against unscrupulous traders who would manipulate the prices of agricultural commodities, especially rice.
“I warn traders who try to manipulate the price of palay or rice, or cheat farmers. We will go after you, because what you are doing is considered economic sabotage,” Mr. Marcos said.
Under the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, smuggling, hoarding, profiteering, cartel, and financing of crimes involving agricultural and fishery products are classified as acts of economic sabotage.
Offenders will face a penalty of life imprisonment and a fine of up to five times the value of the products involved in the crime.
This marks the second straight time that Romualdez clinched the top post without a challenger in what was viewed as a clear show of unity and confidence in his leadership.
Romualdez, who also served as Speaker in the 19th Congress, reclaimed the top House post with a landslide vote of confidence from lawmakers, reaffirming his leadership as the chamber’s presiding officer and legislative strategist under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Romualdez received a total of 269 votes for the speakership.
In the presence of his family led by his wife, Tingog party-list Yedda Romualdez, Romualdez took his oath before Bulacan Rep. Salvador Aquino Pleyto Sr.
Latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed inflation settled at 1.4 percent in June this year as government measures helped ease food prices. The number of employed Filipinos, meanwhile, went up to 50.29 million in May this year from 48.87 million in the same period in 2024.
Zero-balance billing
initiative
President Marcos said Filipinos should no longer be afraid to get themselves confined at DOH hospitals.
“We have pushed through with the zero-balance billing. Patients no longer have to seek help for their hospital needs. For basic accommodation in our DOH hospitals, patients do not have to pay anything because the government already took care of your bill,” he said.
He also reported the expanded benefits of PhilHealth, including services for heart attacks, open-heart surgery, and heart valve repair or replacement as well as outpatient and emergency services; additional funds for cancer treatment; and widened coverage for kidney patients to include medicines after a transplant procedure, among others.
Food security
The President likewise said his administration is focused on aiding farmers and fisherfolk who play crucial roles in increasing food production and ensuring economic stability. He also vowed to allocate P113 billion in funds to boost the implementation of the “Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na” or the P20 per kilogram rice program.
“Since this administration started, more than eight and a half million farmers and fisherfolk have received assistance. We will further intensify government programs to help more,” he said.
He said the government’s goal is to boost the production of agricultural products such as rice, corn, pineapple, banana, mango, coffee, cacao, calamansi, sugarcane, onion, and garlic. He said more Rice Processing Systems will be built and fiberglass boats will be distributed.
Health and nutrition
The “Walang Gutom” program, on the other hand, will assist 600,000 most vulnerable households with nutrition in its second year, expanding to 750,000 households by 2027, Mr. Marcos said.
He said feeding programs in daycare centers and public schools would continue, providing nutritious food and milk to over 3.5 million students.
Speaking during his fourth State of the Nation Address, President Marcos evoked nostalgia by referencing the brightly colored Love Buses that became popular in Metro Manila in the 1970s.
Originally launched under his father’s administration, the Love Bus was the country’s first air-conditioned mass transport service and a symbol of modernized urban mobility during that era.
“Do you still remember the ‘Love Bus’?” President Marcos said.
“We’re not just bringing it back, we’re making it free,” he added.
The program, he clarified, is in its initial testing phase in Davao and Cebu and will soon expand to other areas in the Visayas and Mindanao.
The President did not give specific dates for the rollout or the scope of the expansion, but emphasized that the initiative is part of a broader push to improve public transportation across the country.
According to Romualdez, the SC may close a case, but it cannot close a cause.
The pursuit of accountability is not a moment — it is a mandate.”
“We are not moved by personalities, but by principles. We are not driven by vendetta, but by vigilance. Our goal has never been to destroy — only to demand the truth,” the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) president said.
“When institutions falter, the House of the People always stands firm. When
The Supreme Court on Friday declared unconstitutional the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte.
SC spokesperson Camille Ting, in a news conference, explained that the Senate could not acquire jurisdiction over the impeachment proceedings.
The High Tribunal cited the one-year bar rule stressing that “due process or fairness applies in all stages of the impeachment process.”
At the Senate, three senators issued a joint statement on the Supreme Court decision.
“We respectfully disagree with the
Supreme Court’s ruling that halted the Senate’s constitutional duty to try the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte,” said Senators Risa Hontiveros, Paolo Benigno Aquino, and Francis Pangilinan.
The senators argued that the Senate was merely performing its duty when it prepared to try the complaint initiated and transmitted by the House of Representatives.
They said the ruling unfairly applied a new interpretation of what it means to “initiate” an impeachment case, retroactively changing the legal basis after proceedings were already underway.
“Former Supreme Court Justice Ado -
lfo Azcuna, a respected constitutionalist and framer, called it what it is: legally defensible, perhaps, but grossly unfair,” they said.
The senators appealed to the justices to uphold two longstanding legal doctrines: the Fairness Principle and the Doctrine of Operative Facts.
They argued that those who acted in good faith based on existing jurisprudence should not be punished by the retroactive application of new interpretations. Under the Doctrine of Operative Facts, they said actions already carried out under a previous, valid understanding of the law should remain legally effective.
ACTING OMBUDSMAN. Malacañang confirms that Justice Mariflor Punzalan-Castillo is named Acting Ombudsman.
IN BRIEF
Torre reshuffles senior officials in latest revamp
AS PART of the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) latest reorganization, PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III has reassigned five senior officers to new posts. The reshuffle takes effect on July 28.
Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano was designated as acting director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), replacing Brig. Gen. Romeo Macapaz.
Macapaz will now lead the Police Regional Office (PRO) 12 in Soccsksargen, as part of the reorganization directive issued by the PNP.
Brig. Gen. Arnold Ardiente was named executive officer of the Area Police Command - Visayas, while Brig. Gen. Marcial Magistrado IV was assigned as the new regional director of PRO 13 in Caraga.
NBI nabs fake agent in viral road rage case
THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested an individual who posed as a bureau agent and was caught in a viral road rage video.
NBI Director Jaime Santiago identified the suspect as Jay Ar Cabana, who used the alias “Paul John Jimenez.” His behavior was featured in the program “Raffy Tulfo in Action.”
CCTV footage showed Cabana using his SUV’s hazard lights in an attempt to avoid a motorcycle rider before ramming into the motorcycle and trying to flee. He then flashed a fake NBI badge and allegedly threatened the motorcyclist.
The NBI said the name “Paul John Jimenez” does not appear in any of its official records. Cabana also has a standing arrest warrant for syndicated estafa from the RTC Branch 55 in Lucena, Quezon.
CHR, PNP, Napolcom hold dialogue on rights
THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has met with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Police Commission (Napolcom) for a dialogue on human rights, reform, and accountability.
The consultation took place at Camp Crame and was attended by CHR chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc, PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III, Napolcom Commissioner Rafael Vicente Calinisan, and ML party-list Rep. Leila de Lima.
Topics included transitional justice for victims of extrajudicial killings during the previous administration’s drug war. Officials discussed truth-telling, institutional reforms, and reparations.
Palpal-latoc also observed the PNP’s emergency response demonstration via the 911 hotline and praised efforts to make the service more accessible to vulnerable communities.
He emphasized the importance of changing public perceptions of the CHR, saying the agency is a governance partner rather than an adversary. The CHR welcomed the PNP’s openness and urged continued cooperation for human rights protection. Rio N. Araja
Palace: Punzalan-Castillo is acting Ombudsman
By Charles Dantes
JUSTICE Mariflor Punzalan-Castillo has been named Acting Ombudsman, Malacañang confirmed on Monday.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said her appointment comes as the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) begins interviews for candidates vying for the permanent post, following President Marcos’ fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Punzalan-Castillo will temporarily replace Samuel Martires, whose term expired on July 27, 2025.
A total of 17 legal professionals— including incumbent and retired justices of the Supreme Court and the Sandiganbayan, as well as top government officials—have applied for
the position.
Among those vying for the post are Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla; SC Associate Justice Samuel Gaerlan; retired SC Associate Justice Mario Lopez; Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Geraldine Faith Econg; and Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Michael Frederick Musngi.
Also on the list are Court of Appeals Associate Justice Bautista Gler Corpin Jr.; retired CA Justice and current Philippine Postal Corp. chairman Stephen Cruz; Daraga, Albay Municipal Trial Court Judge Jason
Rodenas; and retired Laoag City RTC Judge Benjamin Turgano.
Other applicants include former BIR Commissioner Kim JacintoHenares; former COA Chairman and current Philippine Competition Commission Chairman Michael Aguinaldo; CHR Commissioner Beda Epres; Deputy Executive Secretary Lisa Logan; DILG Undersecretary for External, Legal and Legislative Affairs Romeo Benitez; PCSO Chairman and retired Marikina RTC Judge Felix Reyes; PDP-Laban Secretary-General Melvin Matibag; and PNP-IMEG member Jonie Caroche.
The JBC will conduct public panel interviews on July 30 and 31 and on August 1 and 4. Under the Revised JBC Rules, the Ombudsman vacancy must be filled within three months of its occurrence.
GSIS to agencies: Report damages
By Rex Espiritu
Diesel, kerosene prices up; gas slightly down
By Alena Mae S. Flores
OIL firms implemented a mixed price adjustment effective 6 a.m. Tuesday, reflecting movements in global oil markets.
The price of diesel rose by P0.60 per liter and kerosene by P0.40 per liter, while gasoline prices dropped slightly by P0.10 per liter.
“The adjustments reflect the movement in prices of refined fuel products, freight, and market premiums in the international market,” Jetti Petroleum said.
However, oil companies did not implement the price hikes in areas affected by the recent southwest monsoon and typhoons. Jetti announced it would not apply the July 29 price increase in Pangasinan, Pampanga, Bataan, NCR, Cavite, Rizal, Bulacan, Oriental Mindoro, and Negros Occidental.
In support of the Department of Energy’s request, Seaoil Philippines said it would defer diesel price hikes in typhoon-hit Regions 1 and 2. Seaoil, Jetti, and Cleanfuel issued separate advisories, while other companies are expected to follow.
On July 22, oil firms raised prices by P0.40 per liter for gasoline, P1.10 for diesel, and P0.70 for kerosene.
NLRC will enforce authority in CBA in Guagua school
THE Supreme Court (SC) has upheld the authority of the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) to enforce the terms of collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) in cases involving unfair labor practices.
In a decision made public on Monday, the SC Third Division affirmed an NLRC order directing Guagua National Colleges (GNC) to pay its employees the agreed economic benefits—although with adjusted computations.
The case stemmed from 2009 negotiations to renew a five-year CBA between GNC and its unions. While GNC initially agreed to grant benefits such as rice subsidies, loyalty pay, and clothing allowances, it delayed signing the draft agreement.
Frustrated by the delay, the unions filed a notice of strike, accusing GNC of bargaining in bad faith and committing serious CBA violations. To prevent the strike, the Department of Labor and Employment intervened and referred the case to the NLRC for compulsory arbitration.
The NLRC ruled that GNC bargained in bad faith, constituting an unfair labor practice, and declared the final CBA draft as the valid agreement. It ordered GNC to pay the agreed benefits covering the years 2009 to 2017.
GNC challenged the ruling, arguing that only voluntary arbitrators— not the NLRC—could enforce the CBA. The Court of Appeals upheld the NLRC’s order, and the Supreme Court affirmed the CA’s decision.
The High Court clarified that while voluntary arbitrators typically handle CBA enforcement, the NLRC has the authority to intervene in cases of gross violations.
Dave Leprozo
CLEARING. Governor Mario Eduardo Ortega and Special Assistant to the Governor Marc Cristopher Ortega oversee clearing operations around the Provincial Capitol Compound in the City of San Fernando. This includes the removal of a giant acacia tree that falls on a well-known restaurant at the heart of the City Plaza.
LANDSLIDE. A massive landslide is seen along Diokno Highway in Calaca, Batangas. The highway is temporarily closed to motorists. Ronel Dimaranan/Facebook
IN BRIEF
DSWD ramps up relief efforts for Mamburao
THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said on Monday it sent an additional 2,000 family food packs (FFPs) to Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro following continued flooding caused by recent weather disturbances.
Acting on the directive of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the agency’s field office in Mimaropa responded to a request for augmentation support from Mamburao Mayor Glicerio Almero III.
DSWD Mimaropa director Reynaldo Reynoso said a total of 5,500 food packs have now been allocated for the affected town.
Of these, 3,220 packs have already been delivered, while the remaining 280 previously committed packs and the 2,000 additional FFPs are scheduled for pick-up and delivery today, July 28. Maricel V. Cruz
LTO grounds SUV driver in road mishap
THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) has suspended the license of a sports utility vehicle (SUV) driver who rammed a motorcycle rider in a video that went viral on social media.
Acting LTO chief Greg Pua Jr. said the suspension was effective for for 90 days, adding that the driver was directed to give his side of the story before July 30.
“Both his driver’s license and the license plate of the vehicle involved in the incident were already placed under alarm to prevent any and all transactions while under investigation,” Pua said. Rio N. Araja Bataan in calamity state; DTI orders prize freeze
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has implemented an automatic 60-day price freeze on basic commodities in Bataan province of following the declaration of a state of calamity by the provincial government.
DTI Bataan director Ei Ocampo said the price freeze based on the official declaration, meant to address the damage caused by typhoon Crising and the southwest monsoon (habagat).
The price moratorium covered basic goods under the DTI’s jurisdiction, including canned sardines, instant noodles, processed milk, coffee, loaf bread, bottled water, salt, laundry soaps, and candles.
Ocampo said retailers were required to strictly follow the mandated prices during the period of the state of calamity. Butch Gunio
THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) reminded voter applicants that only one valid ID is needed to register in the coming nationwide voters’ registration which starts from August 1 to August 10 in preparation for the holding of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in December.
Comelec chairman George Garcia said applicants can bring at least one of the following government-issued IDs: National ID; Postal ID; PWD ID; Student’s ID card or Library Card
SEALED WITH A KISS. Forty-four couples kiss after simultaneously exchanging ‘I do’s’ in a mass wedding arranged by the local government of General Trias City in Cavite under the auspices of Mayor Luis Ferrer IV. Dennis Abrina
MILF stops decommissioning of remaining 14k combatants
By Rex Espiritu
THE separatist group Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has suspended the decommissioning of its remaining 14,000 combatants, citing the Philippine government’s failure to meet key provisions of the 2014 peace agreement.
The MILF Central Committee made the decision during a meeting on July 19 at Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte. The resolution was officially disclosed on Saturday, July 26. According to the measure signed
IN MEMORIAM.
Lawyer Emilio Aquino, newly elected president of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, leads a wreathlaying ceremony at the Manila South Cemetery, marking observance of Scout Memorial Day in honor of the 24 Filipino boy scouts who perished in a plane crash while on their way to the 11th World Jamboree in Athens, Greece in 1963. Norman Cruz
by MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim and Secretary Muhammad Ameen, decommissioning will only proceed once the government shows “substantial compliance” with the normalization commitments, especially the delivery of socio-economic
support for the 26,145 combatants already decommissioned.
“It is hereby resolved that the decommissioning of the remaining 14,000 MILF combatants and 2,450 weapons shall commence only upon the substantial compliance of the GPH (Government of the Philippines) in the other tracks of normalization, including the provision of socio-economic package as agreed upon by the GPH and MILF Peace Implementing Panels to the 26,145 combatants.” The resolution read.
The Manila Standard sought comments from the Office of the Presiden-
(with signature of school authority); Senior Citizen ID; Driver’s licence or Student Permit; National Bureau of Investigation Clearance; Philippine passport; Social Security System/Government Service Insurance System or Unified Multi-Purpose ID; Integrated Bar of the Philippines ID, Professional Regulatory Commission License, and Certificate of Confirmation from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples for members of ICCs and IPs.
The Comelec has announced that
during the 10-day registration period, it will accept applications for new registration, name and status changes, corrections to entries in the registration records, reactivation of registration records, inclusion of registration records, reinstatement of names on the voters’ list, and the transfer of registration records from a foreign service post to local. Additionally, the updating of records for persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens (SCs), and
By Rio N. Araja
ENVIRONMENT Secretary Raphael Lotilla on Monday welcomed an advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice affirming the legal obligations of all States to address climate change and protect vulnerable ecosystems.
Lotilla underscored the importance of unity in the fight for climate justice
“The Fund was created not just as a financial mechanism, but as a testament of solidarity with those who share this burden. Together, we must amplify our voices and actions, ensuring that no nation faces the ravages of climate
members of Indigenous Peoples’ (IPs) or Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs), along with other vulnerable sectors, will also be permitted during this period. According to the Comelec, applications must be submitted in person at the Office of the Election Officer in the city, municipality, or district where the applicant resides. This can be done from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, as well as on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
Vito Barcelo
change alone,” he said. Fresh from hosting the 6th board meeting of the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage (FrLD), Lotilla echoed the President Marcos’ statement that “business-as-usual is not an option when addressing loss and damage.” “Every delay translates to disrupted lives and lost opportunities for thousands of families who struggle against the backdrop of a warming planet. The cost of inaction is far too high; the moment for change is now,” the President said. Marcos earlier said the Loss and Damage Fund is seen as a lifeline for
tial Adviser on Peace, Unity and Reconciliation under Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., but got no reply as of press time.
MILF peace panel spokesperson Datuan Magon Jr. explained that the disarmament process must align with other normalization elements, particularly the socio-economic aspects of a peace accord. “It would be difficult for us if the government almost finished the decommissioning process but other components for normalization were not yet moving/ Section C, Item 9 of the Annex explicitly states that disarmament should happen in tandem with the fulfilment of other peace deal commitments.” Magon said.
BI rounds up record 268 alien fugitives
By Vito Barcelo
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested a record 268 foreign fugitives from January to June this year.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the sharp rise in the number of foreign fugitives rounded up during the first half of 2025 reflected the agency’s intensified efforts to rid the country of undesirable aliens.
“The Philippines will not be a hiding place for fugitives. We are determined to flush them out and send them back to face justice, (in their own countries),” Viado said.
Based on a report by BI’s fugitive search unit (FSU) chief Rendel Ryan Sy, the agency’s record 268 arrests from during the first half of 2025 marked a nearly fourfold increase from the 69 apprehensions made in the same period last year.
All arrested foreigners will undergo deportation proceedings and are to be expelled from the country for being undesirable aliens.
“Our continued cooperation with foreign governments and international law enforcement agencies will ensure that the Philippines remains a secure nation from these fugitives,” Viado said.
countries facing the direst consequences of climate change and lacking the resources to recover adequately.
The Loss and Damage Fund is a climate finance mechanism created during the 27th Conference of Parties (COP) held in Egypt in 2022. It is a global initiative aimed at assisting developing countries in addressing the adverse effects of climate change. The Fund’s pilot phase called the Barbados Implementation Modalities was focused on providing initial financial support through grants to developing countries. This phase will involve developing funding.
OPINION
Need for a Dep’t of Disaster Resilience
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. must now realize the urgent need of creating a Department of Disaster Resilience with all the frequency of typhoons creating floods and resulting in the death of many people.
I may sound like a broken record in pushing for a DDR, but I think President BBM must be convinced of the need for a DDR.
The only senator who is pushing for its creation is Christopher “Bong” Go who, in his many years as a senator, realizes the urgent need for a DDR for a country like the Philippines that is calamity- and disaster-prone.
We have a country that is calamityprone, not only for floods, as a result of a series of typhoons worsened by the monsoon rains, but also earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides and many other calamities and disasters the Philippines is prone to.
As I said, Santa Banana, I might be sounding like a broken record, but President BBM should really push for a permanent government agency like the DDR that will be in charge of rescue, relief and rehabilitation.
Yes, we have the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, an ad hoc agency devolved in every province and region.
I cannot over emphasize the need for a permanent agency like the DDR considering that so many lives have been lost because of these disasters.
More importantly, there is a need for a permanent government agency, like a DDR that will immediately take care of rescue, relief and rehabilitation nationwide.
With all the frequency of disaster and calamities hitting the country we should now realize the need for such a permanent agency with all the allocation whenever a disaster and calamity hits our country, instead of relying on temporary rescue and relief and rehabilitation locally and foreign aid.
I am not saying that we can stop all these disasters and calamities hitting the country, but at least we will have a permanent agency that has its own allocation in the budget to take care of all during and in the aftermath of calamities and disasters.
It is sad, Santa Banana, that the Senate has not prioritized the DDR which we can rely on whenever a calamity occurs, considering that a country like the Philippines is prone to disasters and calamities, instead of relying on an ad hoc body like the NDRRMC.
It should be implanted in the minds of
our senators the urgent need to prioritize the approval of the creation of a DDR.
For this reason I praise Christopher “Bong” Go who seems to be all alone in the quest to push for a Department of Disaster Resilience.
In all my years living in Metro Manila, I have never seen such flooding caused by typhoons and monsoon rains as what we just had.
The Marcos Administration can easily raise enough funds needed for such a permanent department by deactivating other agencies no longer needed
Again I emphasize the need for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Senate to prioritize the need for a permanent agency like the DDR.
The Marcos Administration can easily raise enough funds needed for such a permanent department by deactivating other agencies no longer needed.
Sara Duterte’s Impeachment
While there are those who claim the decision of the Supreme Court that the impeachment case against the Vice President is unfortunate, considering that it is unconstitutional, in my own assessment, it is good for both sides.
And as commented on by a former Supreme Court justice, it is legal but unfortunate.
It will give more time for the prosecution to gather more evidence to convict Sara Duterte by the senator judges. It is also good for the defense to prepare its case.
I am neither for or against the impeachment of Sara Duterte, but as I see it, Santa Banana, it will be good for the country to take a breather from all the politics we have seen in the recent past.
As enunciated by BBM in all his SONAs, there is a need for the country to prioritize what the country needs most.
There are so many headwinds from foreign sources, thus we must now realize the need to prioritize what is good for the greater majority of the country.
CMEPA’s promise of riches for the rice-less
(Last of 2 parts)
A gourmet feast for the famished
SONNY Africa of IBON Foundation nails it: “This is like inviting starving people to a gourmet buffet they can’t afford.” With 75 percent of Filipinos saving nothing, per BSP’s 2024 survey, CMEPA’s market perks are a mirage. The 20 tax on interest stings small savers—a ₱100 loss on a ₱5,000 deposit’s interest is a week’s groceries—while tycoons shrug off millions. Africa argues for wages, pensions, and social protections over risky stock bets. Banks, facing pricier long-term deposits, may hike lending rates, crushing micro-entrepreneurs.
The DOF’s “invest, don’t gamble” sermon, echoed by Monzon, is patronizing nonsense.
Telling a sakla player to buy stocks is like scolding a shipwreck survivor for not swimming faster—ignoring the poverty that sank them.
Distrust’s deadly dance
The “20 percent grab” panic that swept social media is a grotesque symptom of systemic rot.
Memes painting CMEPA as a savings heist outran the DOF’s robotic clarifications that only interest, not principal, is taxed—and has been since 1998 for most deposits.
The gulf between the DOF’s “nonretroactive withholding tax” babble and the public’s visceral fear (“they’re looting my account!”) reveals a nation scarred by distrust, from Marcos Sr.’s martial law to
Duterte’s broken promises. Clickbaiters fanned the flames, but the DOF’s failure to speak in plain Filipino— or deploy a trusted tindera on TikTok— left the poor vulnerable to panic. Financial illiteracy (only 2 percent understand stocks, per 2019 data) turned a technical tweak into a perceived robbery.
Barok’s Law: Every tax reform must come with a TikTok explainer narrated by a jeepney driver, not a suit.
The DOF’s ‘invest, don’t gamble’ sermon is patronizing nonsense
This isn’t just a jab—it’s a demand for communication that meets Filipinos in their barangays, not boardrooms. The DOF’s elitist aloofness is as guilty as any viral meme.
Taxing the poor’s last peso
Meet Maria, a Quezon City minimumwage worker who saves ₱5,000 by skipping meals, squirreling away ₱50 weekly.
Her account earns ₱500 in interest annually; CMEPA’s 20 percent tax snatches ₱100—enough for a week’s rice and tuyo.
A tycoon with ₱50 million in deposits loses ₱1 million in interest tax but doesn’t blink.
This is CMEPA’s brutal math: the poor
The President’s mid-term moment
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. heartened his countrymen by giving them assurances his administration, in mid-point of his six-year rule, will address the challenges confronting them in his fourth State of the Nation Address at the Batasang Pambansa complex.
Members of the Senate, the House of Representatives and the diplomatic corps applauded the 67-year-old chief executive for 92 times – including two standing ovations – as he outlined his government’s blueprint in the last three years of his administration ending in 2028.
He sketched outlines his administration will push in the different sectors to uplift the lives of 117 million Filipinos, and harshly warned those who would take advantage of the situation in the different sectors like agriculture, education, public works, and the transportation zone.
He said it was not enough the government should be building better and more infrastructure projects but that the quality for such be high, pointing to some previous projects where millions of funds were alloted only to crumble down when they were opened.
He gave Filipinos a glimpse of measures in the 4Ps, the conditional cash transfer program implemented by the government which aims to improve the health, nutrition, and education of children from poor households by providing cash grants to eligible families who comply with specific conditions, and benefits derived from PhilHealth.
bleed, the rich yawn. The DOF’s and Monzon’s “invest, don’t gamble” mantra mocks Maria’s reality. She can’t afford to lose ₱100, let alone risk it on stocks, where volatility could erase her savings. PSE’s own data whispers the truth: most retail investors lose money.
For Maria, a bad trade means hungry kids. This isn’t just about taxes—it’s about a system that dangles risky markets before the poor without life rafts. The government’s failure to pair CMEPA with financial education or social safety nets leaves Maria drowning in a sea of elite-driven reforms.
Rescuing a reform gone rogue
To salvage CMEPA from its elitist drift, the government must act with guts: For Equity: Enact a small saver exemption—no tax on the first ₱10,000 of interest income—to protect workers like
His diagram on modules for the education, transport sector, and the need for internet connectivity as from the elementary grades for learners and educators, the need for peace nationwide, the continuing war on illegal drugs, foreign policy, and the continuing storms that hit the country showed the President’s grasp of the challenging corridor confronting his countrymen.
We know the President will go beyond the echoes of those applause and standing ovations and see what measures to be done
His call for sacrifice to help each other, chased by his tough rebuke against those taking advantage of the helpless in face of disasters merited a standing ovation from his audience, as he spoke in Fili-
Maria. Subsidize PERA contributions for informal workers—vendors, drivers, farmers—so they can build real retirement security, not just tax breaks for corporate drones.
For Trust: Deploy a DOF Truth Squad—mobile vans with kababayan translators speaking Tagalog, Bisaya, or Ilokano, demystifying taxes and stocks in markets and barangays. This would drown out misinformation with trust rooted in community.
For Accountability: Force the SEC to slap trading apps with warnings: “82 percent of retail investors lose money.”
Like cigarette packs, these would counter the PSE’s glossy hype, saving novices from financial ruin.
A mirage for the masses CMEPA is Marcos Jr.’s shiny bauble,
pino, the better for everyone tuned in to the live stream to know that their leader meant business. Conspicuously absent was Vice President Sara Duterte, even as protesters rallied outside of the complex not far from where the President was speaking.
The fourth SONA beats the drum on the Chief executive’s mid-term in his sixyear presidency, seen as crucial for his government’s orchestration and authority. It follows reports the President’s trust rating increased by double digits – 10 percentage points from 38 percent in May to 48 percent in June – for the first time since last year, per a Social Weather Stations survey, the ordinary Joe must be satisfied the President was able to address their immediate concerns. The SONA also came after inflation slowing slowed appreciably, down to 1.4 percent in June while food stamp coverage is visibly expanding, with 750,000 families expected to benefit in the next couple of years.
Verily, the President’s SONA crafted his true legacy for his countrymen and the younger generations with this midterm moment in his six-year rule.
Definitely he will be remembered as a leader who stood up to confront the challenges faced by his countrymen, particularly those in the lower rung of society and provided visual solutions to address or overhaul them where necessary.
We know the President will go beyond the echoes of those applause and standing ovations and see what measures to be done, his mind on the ordinary Filipinos whose hope must not fade with drizzling Monday’s sunset.
cloaked in “inclusive capital markets” rhetoric as credible as his father’s utopian slogans.
Its tax fairness and market perks enrich the urban middle class and foreign investors, while the 75 percent of Filipinos with no savings face slashed interest and risky stocks they can’t navigate.
The fake news firestorm wasn’t just a misunderstanding—it was the cry of a distrustful nation ignored by technocrats.
For the nanay sacrificing meals for ₱50 a week, CMEPA is another empty acronym that won’t feed her kids.
Without bold equity measures, mass education, and trust-building, this law will widen the gap between Manila’s towers and the provinces’ shacks. True reform doesn’t just pave the field—it ensures the poor aren’t trampled on it.
This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in horizontal format of a flooded Metro Manila road lined with submerged shanties. People are stranded on the roof. At the foreground is a brand new sign, which says ‘the new normal,’ to contrast the filth and floods. Surrounding the sign are upended cars and people being swept away by the floods.
TUESDAY JULY 29, 2025
mst.daydesk@gmail.com
Taiwan’s garbage trucks offer classical music
TAIPEI – Taiwanese residents holding plastic bags of rubbish stand on a footpath as a yellow garbage truck playing classical music over a loudspeaker pulls up. For decades, the tinkling of Beethoven’s “Fur Elise” or Tekla Badarzewska-Baranowska’s “Maiden’s Prayer” has alerted Taiwanese households to take out their garbage.
Like clockwork, residents emerge from their apartment buildings carrying bags of pre-sorted rubbish as the musical garbage trucks approach.
“When we hear this music, we know it’s time to take out the trash. It’s very convenient,” 78-year-old Lee Shu-ning told AFP as she waited outside her tower block in Taipei.
Residents toss plastic bags of general refuse into the yellow compaction truck, and tip food waste and recycling into bins carried by another vehicle.
For the elderly, taking out the trash has become a social event and many arrive early to sit and talk around the collection points.
“I can chat with some old neighbours and friends, it’s nice,” Lee said, before disposing of several bottles and cans.
“It’s also a kind of exercise,” she added.
But not everyone is a fan.
“I think it’s quite inconvenient because it comes at a fixed time every day,” said 31-year-old beautician Dai Yun-wei after dumping her rubbish in the truck.
“Sometimes we’re not home or we’re busy, so we can’t throw away the trash.”
Taiwan’s musical garbage trucks have been an almost daily feature of life on the island since the 1960s, Shyu Shyh-shiun of Taipei’s Department of Environmental Protection told AFP.
Taiwan imported German garbage trucks pre-programed with “Fur Elise”, Shyu said, but added it was not clear how the “Maiden’s Prayer” became part of the repertoire.
The trucks operate five days a week, usually in the late afternoon and evening.
Yang Xiu-ying, 76, has made a living out of helping her neighbours dispose of their garbage. AFP
Truce talks in border feud start
PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia – Thailand and Cambodia began discussing a ceasefire in their festering border dispute on Monday, as the deadly skirmish dragged into a fifth day.
More than 200,000 people have fled the frontier as the two exchanged artillery, rockets and gun fire in the long-disputed area, which is home to a collection of ancient temples.
A series of motorcades, including some sporting US and Chinese flags, arrived at Seri Perdana, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s official residence, on Monday afternoon.
A helicopter buzzed over the administrative capital as Thailand’s acting Prime
Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet met shortly after 0700 GMT.
Monday’s meeting comes after US President Donald Trump intervened, making a late-night weekend call to both Southeast Asian leaders, who he said agreed to “quickly work out” a truce.
Anwar, whose country currently chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is mediating, while US State Department officials and a Chinese delega-
tion were also present. Ahead of the talks, Thailand and Cambodia traded fresh fire and accusations.
Phumtham said Bangkok did not believe Phnom Penh “is acting in good faith.”
Meanwhile, Cambodia’s defence ministry spokeswoman Maly Socheata said Monday was “the fifth day that Thailand has invaded Cambodia’s territory with heavy weapons and with the deployment of a lot of troops.”
At least 35 people have been killed and more than 200,000 displaced since Thursday as the countries fight over a smattering of contested ancient temples.
In an effort initiated by US President Donald Trump, Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and
with the South, leader Kim Jong Un’s powerful sister said Monday, dismissing a new president in Seoul who has vowed to mend ties. AFP
Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet were scheduled to meet at 0700 GMT (3 PM, Manila time) in Kuala Lumpur. Chinawas also expected to send a delegation.
Ahead of the talks, Thailand and Cambodia traded fresh fire and accusations.
“This is the fifth day that Thailand has invaded Cambodia’s territory with heavy weapons and with the deployment of a lot of troops to grab Cambodia’s land,” said defence ministry spokeswoman Maly Socheata.
The previous night, Thailand’s military said Cambodian snipers were camping in one of the contested temples, and accused Phnom Penh of surging troops along the border and hammering Thai territory with rockets. AFP
Starmer to press Trump on Gaza in Scotland talks
TURNBERRY, United Kingdom – UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will press Donald Trump on ending “the unspeakable suffering” in Gaza, and also talk trade, when they meet Monday at the US president’s golf resort in Scotland. The talks will come a day after the US and the European Union reached a landmark deal to end a
The meeting at Turnberry, southwestern Scotland, comes as European countries express growing alarm at the situation in Gaza, and as Starmer faces domestic pressure to follow France’s lead and recognise a Palestinian state. The leaders will also discuss implementing a recent UK-US trade deal, as well as efforts to end Russia’s war against Ukraine, according to a British
But
RULES OF PROCEDURE IN IMPEACHMENT PROCEEDINGS
with the f the Secretary General and immediately referred to the S office o peaker. impeachment complaint is verified by an affidavit that the comp An lainant d the complaint and that the allegations therein are true and correct of has rea sonal knowledge or based on authentic records. his per impeachment complaint required to be verified which contains An ation based on “information and belief”, or upon “know ca verifi ledge, tion and belief,” or lacks a proper verification, shall b informa e treated as an ed impeachment complaint. unsign e Speaker shall have it included in the Order
answer the complaint within ten (10) days from receipt of notice thereof and serve a copy of the answer to the complainant(s). No motion to dismiss shall be allowed within the period to answer the complaint.
The answer, which shall be under oath, may include affirmative defenses. If the respondent fails or refuses to file an answer within the reglementary period, the respondent is deemed to have interposed a general denial to the complaint. Within three (3) days from receipt of the answer, the complainant may file a reply, serving a copy thereof to the respondent who may file a rejoinder within three (3) days from receipt of the reply, serving a copy thereof to the complainant. If the complainant fails to file a reply, all the material allegations in the answer are deemed controverted. Together with their pleadings, the parties shall file their affidavits or counter-affidavits, as the case may be, with their documentary evidence. Such affidavits or counteraffidavits shall be subscribed before the Chairperson of the Committee on Justice or the Secretary General. Notwithstanding all the foregoing, failure to file an answer will not preclude the respondent from presenting evidence to support the defenses.
When there are more than one respondent, each shall be furnished with a copy of the verified complaint of a Member of the House or a copy of the verified complaint of a private citizen together with the resolution of endorsement thereof by a Member of the House of Representatives and a written notice to answer. In this case, reference to respondent in these Rules shall be understood as respondents.
Section 7. Submission of Evidence and Memoranda.—After receipt of the pleadings, affidavits and counter-affidavits and relevant documents provided for in Section 6, or the expiration of the time within which they may be filed, the Committee shall determine whether the complaint alleges sufficient grounds for impeachment.
If it finds that sufficient grounds for impeachment do not exist, the Committee shall dismiss the complaint and submit the report required hereunder. If the Committee finds that sufficient grounds for impeachment exist, the Committee shall conduct a hearing. The Committee, through the Chairperson, may limit the period of examination and cross-examination by members of the Committee. The Committee shall have the power to issue compulsory processes for the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents and other related evidence.
Hearings before the Committee shall be open to the public except when the security of the State or public interest requires that the hearings be held in executive session.
After the submission of evidence, the Committee may require the submission of memoranda, after which the matter shall be submitted for resolution.
Section 8. Protection to Complainants or Witnesses.—The House may, upon proper petition, provide adequate protection to a complainant or witness if it is shown that the personal safety of the complainant or witness is in jeopardy because of participating in the impeachment proceeding.
Section 9. Report and Recommendation.—The Committee on Justice after hearing, and by a majority vote of all its Members, shall submit its report to the House containing its findings and recommendations within sixty (60) session days from the referral to it of the verified complaint and/or resolution. Together with the report shall be a formal resolution of the Committee regarding the disposition of the complaint which shall be calendared for consideration by the House within ten (10) session days from receipt thereof.
If the Committee finds by a vote of the majority of all its Members that a probable cause exists on the basis of the evidence adduced before the Committee, it shall submit with its report a resolution setting forth the Articles of Impeachment. Otherwise, the complaint shall be dismissed subject to Section 12 of these Rules.
Section 10. Report to be Calendared.—The Committee on Rules shall calendar the report and the
vote of at least one-third (1/3) of all the Members of the House is necessary for the approval of the resolution setting forth the Articles of Impeachment. If the resolution is approved by the required vote, it shall then be endorsed tothe Senate. On the other hand, should the resolution fail to secure approval by the required vote, it shall result in the dismissal of the complaint for impeachment. Section 12. Where Dismissal Recommended.—When the report of the Committee on Justice dismisses the complaint, it shall submit to the House a resolution for the dismissal of the verified complaint and/orresolution of impeachment. A vote of at least one-third (1/3) of all the Members of the House shall be necessary to override such resolution, in whichcase the Committee on Justice shall forthwith prepare the Articles of Impeachment.
Section 13. Vote by Roll Call.—The voting on a resolution with the Articles of Impeachment of the Committee on Justice or a contrary resolution dismissing the impeachment complaint shall be by roll call, and the Secretary General shall record the vote of each Member.
RULE IV Verified Complaint/Resolution by One-Third of Members
Section 14. Endorsement of the Complaint/Resolution to the Senate.—A verified complaint/resolution of impeachment filed by at least one-third (1/3) of all the Members of the House shall constitute the Articles of Impeachment, and in this case the verified complaint/resolution shall be endorsed to the Senate in the same manner as an approved bill of the House.
The complaint/resolution must, at the time of filing, be verified and sworn to before the Secretary General by each of the Members constituting at least one-third (1/3) of all the Members of the House.
The contents of
Section
RULE V Bar Against Impeachment
NEW YORK—
Japanese superstar Ichiro Suzuki said he felt like a rookie all over again on Sunday when he and four other legends were enshrined into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
CC Sabathia, Billy Wagner and the late Dave Parker and Dick Allen also were inducted into the sport’s honor roll at ceremonies near the Hall in Cooperstown, New York. But the moment was extra special for 51-year-old Suzuki, the first Japaneseborn player to enter the Hall.
“Today, I’m feeling something I thought I would never know again,” Suzuki said. “For the third time, I am a rookie.”
“Ichiro” made his debut in the Japan League for the Orix BlueWave in 1992 and played there through 2000 before joining Major League Baseball’s Seattle Mariners, where
Ichiro, 4 others inducted into Baseball Hall of Fame
his newcomer feeling led to an epic 18-year career as an outfielder whose bat control and ball placement were astonishing.
Suzuki was a 10-time MLB All-
Star and set an MLB record with 262 hits in a single season. He was the American League Most Valuable Player and Rookie of the Year in 2001, when he led the AL in batting and stolen bases.
The only other MLB player with MVP and top rookie awards in the same year was Fred Lynn in 1975.
Suzuki finished his MLB career with 3,089 hits, a .311 batting average with 117 home runs, 780 runs batted in and 509 stolen bases.
Suzuki was a near-unanimous selection for the Hall in a media poll, one
PSA Forum to tackle Davis Cup, Larga PH
THE Davis Cup team and the Larga Pilipinas cycling race series make up this week’s interesting discussion in the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum at the conference hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
The men’s national tennis team, recently promoted to Group III in the Asia Oceania zone, will be led by player Jed Olivarez and Philippine Tennis Association Executive Director Tonette Mendoza.
Invitations were also extended to team captain Ruben Gonzales and player AJ Lim as the Davis Cup team’s guesting in the session a week ago was cancelled at the last minute due to heavy flooding and rainfall brought by the southwest monsoon.
The other part of the session that
starts at 10:30 a.m. will feature the return of Larga Pilipinas after a sevenyear hiatus.
The six-stage race which kicks off on August 2, is going to be tackled by chief commissaire Sunshine Vallejos and Larga Pilipinas President and Operations Chief Edmund ‘Snow’ Badua.
The public sports program is presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, Smart/PLDT, and the country’s 24/7 sports app Arena Plus.
The Forum is livestreamed via the PSA Facebook page fb.com/PhilippineSportswritersAssociation. It is also aired on a delayed basis over Radyo Pilipinas 2 and share on its official Facebook page Radyo Pilipinas 2
ballot failing to go his way in his first time as a candidate.
Suzuki had invited that writer to dinner but in his speech said, “the offer for that writer to have dinner at my home has now expired.”
When he wasn’t drawing laughter, Suzuki was opening up about the transition he made from Japan to the United States.
“I think you can imagine, there was much doubt when I tried to become the first position player from Japan in MLB,” he said. “But it was more than just that. There was criticism and negativity. Someone even said to me, ‘Don’t embarrass the nation.’
“The person who supported me the most was my wife, Yumiko. It would only be natural if she had doubts too.
But she never made me feel them...I tried to be consistent as a player but she was the most consistent teammate I’ve ever had.”
Suzuki also recalled facing doubters who questioned if a fielder of his size could make it in MLB.
“If you consistently do the little things, there is no limit to what you can achieve,” Suzuki said.
“Look at me. I’m 5-foot-11 (1.80m) and 170 pounds (77.1kg). When I came to America, many people said I was too skinny to compete with bigger Major Leaguers.
“The first time I ran out on the field, I was in awe of the competition, but I knew if I stuck to my beliefs about preparation, I could overcome the doubts. Even my own.” AFP
Crossovers eye last QF spot in PVL on Tour
by a high-stakes showdown between Chery Tiggo and ZUS Coffee at the Candon City Arena, where the Crossovers aim not only to rebound but also to clinch the final outright quarterfinal berth. After a dominant start – sweeping their first three games in Pool B – the Crossovers stumbled against the resurgent Creamline Cool Smashers, suffering a four-set loss in Iloilo last week. With Cr eamline finishing the prelims at 3-2, Chery Tiggo can improve to a 4 -1 card with a win over ZUS Coffee, tying Cignal HD Spikers and advancing outright to the next round. Meanwhile, Choco Mucho and Petro Gazz battle in the 6:30 p.m. Pool A matchup, both carrying 1-3 records and eyeing a stronger seeding in the crossover knockout phase. PLDT, on the other hand, has already secured the first quarterfinal berth in Pool A with an unblemished 5-0 slate, capping its campaign with a straight-sets victory over the winless Galeries Tower Highrisers in Cebu City last Sunday. Nxled nailed the other quarters slot with a dominant win over Farm Fresh, finishing with a 4-1 slate. Should ZUS Coffee upset Chery Tiggo, a three-way tie for second place in Pool B will emerge among ZUS, Chery Tiggo and Creamline. In that scenario, the Cool Smashers are likely to claim the outright spot with 10 total points, while the Crossovers and Thunderbelles have eight and five points, respectively, heading to their crucial match.
shall constitute a quorum. For purposes of determining the existence of a quorum, the Speaker, the Deputy Speakers, the Majority Leader, the Deputy Majority Leaders, the Minority Leader and the Deputy Minority Leaders or the Members deputized by them shall be added to the total number of committee or sub-committee members, as the case may be, if they are present in a meeting. In cases of joint referrals, a quorum must be present in each of the committees concerned.
Section 7. Executive Sessions.—If the committee or subcommittee deems that the subject matter of the discussion in a public hearing may endanger national security or may be offensive to decency or public morals, it shall conduct the examination in an executive session.
Attendance in executive sessions shall be limited to Members of the committee, the committee secretariat staff and such other persons whose presence are required or allowed by the Chairperson.
Testimony taken or evidence presented in an executive session, or any summary or excerpt thereof or documents related thereto, in whole or in part, shall not be made public, unless authorized by a majority vote of the Members present, there being a quorum.
Section 8. Attendance of Witnesses.—The committee shall have the power to issue subpoena ad testificandum and subpoena duces tecum to witnesses in any part of the country, signed by the Chairperson or acting Chairperson and the Speaker or acting Speaker. However, if the committee is unable to secure the signature of the Speaker or acting Speaker on a subpoena ad testificandum and/or subpoena duces tecum, it may request the Committee on Rules to act on the matter. Upon the recommendation of the Committee on Rules through a majority vote of all its Members after determining that the attendance of a witness is indispensable to the effective conduct of the inquiry, the Speaker shall issue a subpoena ad testificandum and/or a subpoena duces tecum to compel the attendance of a witness.
Within Metro Manila, subpoena ad testificandum and subpoena duces tecum shall be served by the Sergeant-at-Arms or his duly authorized deputies. Outside Metro Manila, service of these processes may be made by the appropriate police officer or authority of the town or city upon request of the Secretary General.
Subpoena shall be served to a witness at least three (3) days before a scheduled hearing in order to give the witness every opportunity to prepare for the hearing and to employ counsel, should the witness desire. The subpoena shall be accompanied by a notice stating that should a witness wish to confer with the secretary of the committee prior to the date of the hearing, the witness shall convey such desire to the committee by mail, telephone or any other electronic communication device Section 9. Rights and Duties of Witnesses. The rights of witnesses including their right against self-incrimination shall be respected.
Witnesses who are not government officials summoned by the committee shall be entitled, upon their request and subject to the approval of the Speaker, to reasonable transportation expenses and such other amounts as may be deemed necessary for their stay in Metro Manila.
Witnesses shall testify under oath to be administered by the Chairperson or by
Any witness desiring to deliver or
prepared or written statement before the committee shall file a copy of such statement, under oath, with the secretary of the committee within forty-eight (48) hours before the hearing at which the statement is to be delivered or presented.
Such statements or portions thereof that are relevant and germane to the subject of
Section 10. Rights and Duties of Persons Affected by a Hearing.—Where applicable, any person named in a public hearing or in the released record of testimonies given in executive sessions, who has not been previously so named shall, within a reasonable time thereafter, be notified of such fact by registered letter, return receipt requested, to the address of such person last known to the committee. The notice shall include:
a.a statement that the person has been so named;
b.date and place of hearing where the person was named;
c.name of the person who testified; and
d.information that a copy of the Rules of Procedure Governing Inquiries in Aid of Legislation is available for the perusal of such person in the House.
Any person so notified who believes that one’s character or reputation was adversely affected may, within seven (7) days after receipt of said notice:
a.communicate with the secretary of the committee; and/or
b.request to appear in person before the committee in public session and give testimony, at the expense of the concerned person.
Any person testifying under the foregoing provisions shall be accorded the same privileges as any other witness appearing before the committee, and may be questioned concerning any matter relevant and germane to the subject of the investigation
Section 11. Contempt.—The committee may punish any person for contempt, by a vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the Members present, there being a quorum. The following shall be grounds for citing any person in contempt:
a.refusal without legal excuse to obey summons;
b.refusal to be sworn or placed under affirmation;
c.refusal to answer any relevant inquiry;
d.refusal to produce any books, papers, documents or records that are relevant to the inquiry and are in the possession of the concerned person;
e.acting in a disrespectful manner towards any Member of the committee or any misbehavior in the presence of the committee; or f. undue interference in the conduct of proceedings.
Contempt of the committee shall be deemed contempt of the House. The person cited in this section may, upon order of the committee, be detained in such place as the Chairperson or Acting Chairperson may designate.
Section 12. Penalty. By a vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the Members present,
Inductees (from left) Billy Wagner, Ichiro Suzuki and CC Sabathia hold their plaques during the Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony at Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown, New York. AFP
A SPORTS
Biado’s victory inspires PH’s biggest ‘25 World Games bid
By Randy M. Caluag
WITH his recent triumph on the global stage, billiards’ ace Carlo Biado is set to spearhead Team Philippines’ campaign at the 2025 World Games, slated for August 7 to 17 in Chengdu, China.
Biado etched his name deeper in Philippine sports history early Sunday after becoming the first Filipino to capture the World Pool Championship twice, outlasting world No. 1 Fedor Gorst of the United States in a gripping 15–13 final.
The 41-year-old cue artist’s victory not only solidified his legacy as one of the country’s greatest billiards players,
but also boosted the morale of the national contingent heading to Chengdu. Largest Philippine Delegation in History Stephen Arapoc, the World Games chief of mission and president of the Muaythai Association of the Philippines (MAP), expressed confidence that the country can replicate its golden moments from past editions of the games.
Biado and karateka Junna Tsukii both delivered gold medals in the 2017 and 2022 World Games, setting the bar for the 2025 campaign.
Team Philippines will compete across multiple disciplines outside the Olympic program, including billiards, duathlon, floorball, jiu-jitsu, kickboxing, muay thai, powerlifting, sambo, wakeboarding, wushu, and dragon boat racing.
Arapoc assured that the athletes’ needs—both for participation and preparation—are fully covered.
“The Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, and private sector have all stepped in to ensure our athletes have everything they need to perform at their best,” he said.
7-year-old PH martial artist wins world jiu-jitsu tourney
A FAST-RISING, young Filipino jiu-jitsu artist achieved a milestone in her budding career as she bagged a gold medal in the world’s biggest jiujitsu tournament for kids.
Seven-year-old Aleia Aielle M. Aguilar of Six Blades Jiu-Jitsu outpointed Lyla Rose Warren of Shark BJJ in their Pee Wee 2 grey finals’ confrontation in the Pan Kids IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2025 over the weekend at the Silver Spur Arena inside Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida.
“She [Aielle] is not afraid to compete at the global stage at her incredibly young age. I am really proud of her,” said her father Alvin Aguilar, the founding father of Filipino mixed martial arts, Universal Reality Combat Championship and DEFTAC.
“She fought pretty well, and her instinct, confidence, and consistency were great all along,” he added. “She fought different, taller and stronger opponents from the other clubs abroad and she was not afraid to go up
against anybody on the mat.”
In her run-up to the championship round, the three-time jiu-jitsu world champion in Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP) since 2022 was so dominant in the tournament none of her opponents managed to score.
Earlier, the young Aguilar defeated Trinity Grace Thome of Gracie Barra in the quarterfinal round of the division featuring participants under 46.60 pounds.
The victory set her up into a semifinal meeting with Maite Almeida De Oliveira of Carlson Gracie Team who drew a bye.
Aguilar quickly added De Oliveira in her growing list of victims. She then advanced to the finals opposite Lyla Rose Warren, who had earlier defeated Zara Scarlett Hernandez of Pablo Silva BJJ in the semifinals.
Lyla rose Warren settled for silver, while De Oliveira and Slade ReShae of Alliance team were both rewarded with bronze medals.
Edoc targets finals as fierce battles loom at JPGT Riviera
SILANG, Cavite—Zoji Edoc sets his sights on nothing less than a victory as the ICTSI Junior PGT Luzon Series resumes today (Tuesday (July 29) with the Riviera JPGT Championship at the Couples course of the Riviera Golf Club, Inc. here.
With the stakes rising and the Finals drawing closer, Edoc hopes to ride the momentum of his strong third-place finish at the Junior World in San Diego. He is keen to put his refined game to the test as he seeks not just a second leg win in the boys’ 7-10 age division but also to formalize his berth in the elite ICTSI Junior PGT Finals slated for Oct. 7 to 10 at The Country Club in Laguna.
Already a winner in the Sherwood Hills leg, the Taytay-born prodigy currently has 39 points in the standings, bolstered by runner-up finishes at Eagle Ridge and Splendido Taal. Another win this week in the 36-hole tournament would all but guarantee him a spot among the Luzon representatives who will square off against their Visayas-Mindanao counterparts in the Ryder Cup-style championship. The young ace, however, faces tough competition from a stacked field of contenders, including Asher Abad, Halo Pangilinan, Alexian Ching, Paul Yambao, James Padron, Jethro Bayron, Matteo dela Cruz, Samuel Ababa, Andre Muyot and Giulio Ballado – all determined to go all out in a bid to climb the ranks and gain ground on the tightly packed leaderboard.
In the girls’ 7-10 division, the intensity is just as high, with Penelope Sy (30 points) and Tyra Garingalao (28) seeking to solidify their places inside the Top 4. But they will need to fend off a strong challenge from Bulacan’s Venus delos Santos, who lurks dangerously in fifth with 24 points and is poised to make a late surge in the race for Finals qualification in the series organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. With Mavis Espedido (45) and Athena Serapio (37) virtually securing the top two spots, the battle for the remaining berths is shaping up to be a dramatic, wideopen race in this fifth leg of the seven-stage regional series, which has drawn a strong 77-player field across three age categories. Meanwhile, fireworks are expected in the boys’ 11-14 division, also set over 36 holes, where the leaderboard is as volatile as ever. Ryuji Suzuki (42) and Vito Sarines (39), who are skipping this leg, currently lead the pack, but Jacob Casuga, sitting in third with 35 points, is gunning for a breakthrough win to cement his Finals spot.
Race Manhit (18), at fifth place, is also in must-win mode as he aims to crash the top four, especially with No. 4 Ryuichi Tao (36) skipping this leg. A victory here could breathe new life into Manhit’s Finals hopes, as well as open the door for other dark horses still mathematically in contention.
LAUREL, Batangas—College of St. Benilde’s Sean Granada rose to the occasion on a rain-soaked Sunday, showcasing nerves of steel and sharp course management to clinch individual honors in Round 2 of the ICTSI Intercollegiate Tour at the wind-raked Splendido Taal Golf Club.
Confronted with relentless rain and a course reshaped by recent weather, Granada displayed remarkable patience and mental toughness. Despite a grinding four-bogey stretch over the first 15 holes, the CSB standout held his composure and surged late, draining a clutch 30-foot birdie on the par-4 16th to highlight a gutsy round of 75 (38-37).
His effort earned him a three-stroke victory over University of the Philippines’ Miggy Roque and Ateneo-1’s Schmuel Tan, who both carded 78s. I drove pretty well on the 16th, leaving me just about 90 yards to the pin,” said Granada, 20. “But I hit it short –about 30 feet – but since it was an uphill lie, I charged it and ended up sinking the putt.”
Coming off a joint fourth-place finish in Round 1 at Royal Northwoods, Granada credited his long game for pulling him through.
“My driving definitely saved me, especially in that kind of weather,” he said. “I enjoyed it, but the conditions were really tough – 25kph winds and a lot of rain. It was fun, but also frustrating.”
Granada’s ability to stay composed amid the adverse conditions proved crucial. Navigating soggy fairways and unpredictable greens, he leaned on his driving and short game – especially his timely birdie – that ultimately sealed the win worth 15 ranking points.
Roque, who tied for eighth in Round 1, showed flashes of brilliance with two birdies but stumbled with six bogeys and a double bogey for a 40-38 finish, while Tan, making his Tour debut, posted one birdie against seven bogeys for the same score.
With teammate David Guangko adding an 80, CSB also captured the team title with a 155 total, completing a five-shot romp over Ateneo-1 and matching UP’s Round 1 double-title feat. C’Zedrick Sulaik’s 92 did not count under the three-toplay, two-to-count format.
Granada rises in the rain, lifts Benilde to IIT Splendido win No-error Eala game not enough vs. Czech rival
By Peter Atencio
PHILIPPINE tennis sensation Alexandra “Alex” Eala played a nearflawless game, but still fell to Czech Marketa Vondrousova, 6-3, 1-6, 2-6, in the first round of the National Bank Open women’s singles at the IGA Stadium in Montreal, Canada early Monday in Manila.
The 20-year-old Eala made no errors throughout her 126-minute encounter with Vondrousova, who advanced to the second round. Vondrousova also had no miscues with her game and scored decisively on five break points and seven aces when she bounced back after losing the first set.
In joining a tournament for the first time after her Wimbledon debut, Eala earned $12,770 or P728,790.18 for her performance.
Vondrousova, a former Wimbledon champion, played her first match since returning from an injury. She will next face No. 24 seed Marta Kostyuk in the Round of 64. Eala’s setback kept her from setting up a rematch with Kostyuk, who eliminated the Filipina at the Italian Open first round last May, 0-6, 1-6. Eala, the first Filipina to have played in an WTA final event at the Eastbourne Open and in Wimbledon, will resume preparing for the US Open in New York, set from August 24 to September 7. She will next see action in the Mexico and Cincinnati Opens. The 5’9” Eala looked headed for another upset win when she took the first set, with her mean forehand forcing her Czech foe to struggle with her serve.
Aleia Aielle Aguilar holds her gold medal at the podium.
Sean Granada: ‘My driving de nitely saved me, especially in that kind of weather.’
Carlo Biado matchroompool.com
Zoji Edoc
Maynilad seeks to conclude talks with investors ahead of October IPO
230,912 units
By Alena Mae S. Flores MAYNILAD
strategic investors expressed significant interest and requested additional time to complete internal approvals.
Vehicle sales in six months
Water Services Inc. aims to conclude discussions by September 2025 with two cornerstone investors for its planned P37.41 billion initial public offering (IPO).
“The potential participation of these investors is expected to add even more value to Maynilad’s public offering and will be viewed positively by all investors and the markets at large,” the water concessionaire earlier said.
185,265 units
Maynilad chairman Manuel Pangilinan said a cornerstone investor had approved the deal, with the company awaiting approval from the second.
Despite ongoing negotiations, Maynilad is still targeting an October timeframe for the IPO, he said.
Commercial vehicle sales
“Hopefully, by September at the latest to get their approval,” Pangilinan said.
“We require around 30 percent.
45,647 units
Passenger car sales
By Othel V. Campos
THE Philippine automotive industry posted a 2-percent growth in the first half of 2025, with total vehicle sales reaching 230,912 units, according to a joint report from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) and the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA).
Commercial vehicles remained the primary growth driver, with the six-month sales rising 11.3 percent to 185,265 units, accounting for over 80 percent of the market.
Passenger cars contributed 45,647 units or 19.77 percent of total sales, reflecting shifting market preferences that continue to challenge the segment.
Vehicle sales in June rose 3.6 percent to 40,483 units from 39,063 in the same month last year and represented a 1.8-percent increase from May 2025.
Commercial vehicle sales reached 33,561 units during the month, led by light commercial vehicles at 25,316 units, up 17 percent from 28,480 units.
Passenger car sales in June went down by 34.9 percent to 6,922 from 7,895 units.
Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. maintained its dominant market position with a 48.19-percent share, followed by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. with 19.06 percent, Nissan Philippines Inc. with 5.14 percent, Ford Group Philippines with 4.47 percent and Suzuki Philippines Inc. with 4.45 percent.
Despite the modest gains, industry leaders say evolving consumer behavior presents opportunities for innovation and product refreshes, particularly in the passenger car segment.
“As we move into the second half of 2025, manufacturers and dealers are focused on enhancing the customer experience, launching updated vehicle lineups, and sustaining recovery momentum across all segments,” said CAMPI president Rommel Gutierrez.
Pangilinan said the remaining shares would be offered to other institutional and retail investors.
“Hopefully, we can get back on the saddle by October and get it listed, get the shares listed on or before the end of the year. That’s the tentative timeframe,” he said.
Maynilad’s IPO was initially scheduled for July, but was rescheduled after
There will be shares. These are cornerstone. Cornerstone investors, two of them,” he said.
The company expects its shares to be listed on the main board of the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) under the trading symbol “MYNLD.”
Maynilad appointed BPI Capital Corp., The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, Morgan Stanley Asia (Singapore) Pte. and UBS AG Singapore Branch as joint global coordinators and joint bookrunners for the offering.
PH car sales increased 2% in first 6 months Fiscal,
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Department of Finance’s (DOF) prudent fiscal and economic management is yielding tangible benefits for Filipinos, Secretary Ralph Recto said Monday. Anchored on the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework (MTFF), he said the DOF is steadfast in its mission to reduce the deficit and debt-to-gross domestic product (GDP) ratios, create more quality jobs, increase household
incomes and cut poverty to single digits by 2028.
The Philippine economy has expanded by an average of 5.9 percent since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office in 2022, making it one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies, the DOF said.
The Philippines ranked second to Vietnam (7.0 percent) in economic growth in the first quarter of 2025, matching China’s performance (5.4 percent) and outpacing its ASEAN neighbors,
Power generation lifted Meralco’s core income to P25.5b in first half
MANILA Electric Co (Meralco) on Monday reported a 10-percent increase in its core net income in the first half of 2025 to P25.5 billion from P23.2 billion in the same period last year.
The distribution business contributed the largest share, accounting for 54 percent, or P13.7 billion, of the core net income.
Meralco forecasts its consolidated core net income (CCNI) to reach P50 billion for 2025, largely driven by the power generation business.
“Meralco delivered strong results in the first half of the year, fueled by the solid performance of our core distribution business and accelerating momentum of
the generation business,” Meralco chairman and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan said in a briefing Monday.
“While energy sales volume growth has been lower than anticipated, we remain on track to meet our overall targets as power generation is expected to deliver higher-thanexpected performance, offsetting the anticipated slower demand growth,” Pangilinan said, expecting 2025 fullyear CCNI to grow by low double digits over 2024.
The power generation business increased its contribution to 37 percent of CCNI, or P9.4 billion, up from 27 percent in 2024.
Alena Mae S. Flores
including Indonesia (4.9 percent), Malaysia (4.4 percent), Singapore (3.8 percent) and Thailand (3.1 percent).
The unemployment rate eased to 3.9 percent in May, bringing the 2025 average down to 4 percent and outperforming the government’s target range of 4.8 percent to 5.1 percent for 2025.
The Marcos Jr. administration also made every effort to shield Filipinos from the effects of inflation, especially low-income households.
B2
B3
B4
Inflation rate for the poorest households dropped below zero to -0.4 percent in June 2025, the lowest since the pandemic.
Rice, once the main culprit behind rising prices, saw a historic decline of 14.3 percent in June 2025—the sharpest drop recorded since 1995. Overall inflation is now down to 1.4 percet with a year-to-date average of just 1.8 percent, settling comfortably below the government’s 2 percent to 4 percent target range.
Less than 0.1 percent of subscribers switched telcos since 2021—PCC
THE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) reported that less than 0.1 percent of subscribers have used free mobile number portability (MNP) services since the law’s inception on Sept. 30, 2021. By the end of 2024, fewer than 100,000, or about 0.10 percent, of total subscribers had switched telecom providers while keeping their original mobile numbers, the PCC said.
“This is significantly lower than those reported in most jurisdictions with
courages
(MSPs). The
and chief
Joshua Bingcang.
BUSINESS
MGEN to proceed with Atimonan coal plant after DOE reaffirmation
By Alena Mae S. Flores
MERALCO PowerGen Corp. (MGEN) is moving forward with the development of Atimonan One Energy Inc.’s 1,200-megawatt ultra-supercritical pulverized coal-fired power plant.
This comes after the Department of Energy (DOE) reaffirmed the project is not covered by the 2020 coal moratorium policy.
MGEN said the Quezon power plant is part of its commitment to providing cost-effective and reliable power to meet Luzon’s growing energy demands.
“We welcome the DOE’s reaffirmation of the Atimonan Energy project’s non-coverage from the coal moratorium policy,” said Emmanuel Rubio, MGEN president and chief executive.
“As MGEN plays a key role in ensuring the country’s energy security and leading the energy transition, our investment in Atimonan will help address today’s needs while preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities. We will employ advanced and efficient technologies to ensure our operations support economic and societal development — all while adhering to the company’s commitment to sustainability.”
With the DOE’s latest reaffirmation, Atimonan One Energy Inc. can
proceed with processing the required permits through the Energy Virtual One Stop Shop System (EVOSS).
The Atimonan Energy power plant will be constructed using High Efficiency, Low Emission (HELE) technology, which uses high temperatures and pressures to maximize energy production while minimizing fuel consumption.
This technology is crucial for achieving lower carbon emissions from thermal plants, offering enhanced plant efficiency. HELE has been used worldwide and in other Asian countries, including South Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand and China.
The plant is expected to lower electricity costs by P12 billion annually and help provide efficient baseload power for the country.
Once completed, the thermal plant
and Berde Rooftop reinforce their commitment to environmental
by participating in two major tree planting initiatives-in Bulacan on June 25, and in La Union on July 12 with a total of 1,135 trees planted. These efforts are in partnership with Holcim Philippines Inc., Helix Mining and Development Corp. , the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau and local community stakeholders.
ROBINSONS Retail Holdings, Inc. (RRHI), the retail holding company of the Gokongwei family, has entered the Philippines’ growing motorcycle market with the acquisition of Premiumbikes Corp. for P146.4 million.
Premiumbikes is a motorcycle retailer in the Philippines with 214 stores nationwide. RRHI, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Robinsons Supermarket Corp., signed a share purchase agreement to acquire Premiumbikes from Lance Gokongwei and his sister, RRHI chairman Robina Gokongwei-Pe.
The P146.4-million acquisition price is equivalent to 1.0x Premiumbikes’ audited book value for 2024.
The acquisition allows RRHI to enter the growing motorcycle market in the Philippines, aligning with its strategy to diversify revenue streams and expand into profitable retail formats.
“This acquisition marks a key milestone for our company as we enter a new and fast-growing category that is also profitable,” RRHI president and chief executive Stanley Co said.
“This move reflects our commitment to enhancing the retail experience
and providing accessible, reliable and affordable products that meet the evolving needs of Filipino consumers,” said Co.
Premiumbikes reported net sales of P4.17 billion in 2024, up 15.2 percent year-on-year, and EBITDA of P324.2 million, higher by 36.7 percent year-onyear, as demand for motorcycles in the country remains on the rise.
RRHI said the market remains underpenetrated, with a motorcycle possession ratio of eight people to one motorcycle (8:1) in the Philippines, compared to 4:1 in Indonesia and Vietnam, and 3:1 in Thailand.
“The Philippines still has a low motorcycle penetration ratio compared to other Southeast Asian markets, which gives us a lot of room to grow,” said Joselito Pojol, general manager of Premiumbikes.
“We are excited to become part of the Robinsons Retail group and look forward to bringing our stores and services to more communities across the country,” said Pojol.
RRHI engaged a third-party financial consultant to prepare a fairness opinion and valuation report on the Premiumbikes shares. Jenniffer B. Austria
By Jenniffer B. Austria
will ensure sufficient supply of reliable and affordable baseload energy for the Philippines. It is projected to generate enough power for at least 5 million households (based on an average monthly consumption of 150 kWh) or the equivalent energy needs of approximately 1,000 hospitals.
The new power source will account for approximately 7 percent of Luzon’s total energy demand, playing a crucial role in bolstering the country’s energy security and ensuring a reliable power supply for the future.
The Atimonan plant is set to deliver significant benefits to the local community, with an estimated annual economic contribution exceeding 1 billion pesos. This includes revenue from real property taxes and funding for various community development initiatives.
PRIME INFRA ASSISTANCE. Prime Waste Solutions (PWS) Pampanga and Prime Infra Foundation deliver relief assistance in Porac communities affected by
the recent heavy rains. Relief packs were distributed to around 1,200 beneficiaries in Barangays Planas, Pio, Calantas and Camias.
TREE PLANTING. Berde Renewables
sustainability
PNB readies P20-b bond sale after strong income
PHILIPPINE National Bank (PNB), the financial unit of tycoon Lucio Tan, plans to raise up to P20 billion from a bond issuance. The move follows strong financial results for the first half of 2025.
PNB’s board approved the bond sale, with an initial offering of P3 billion and an option to upsize to P20 billion. The bonds will be issued under its P50-billion bond and commercial paper program. The bank reported a net income of P12.5 billion in the first half of 2025, a 22-percent increase from the same period last year. The growth was driven by higher interest income and a significant rise
Alternergy gets P1.4-b loan for Tanay project
ALTERNERGY Holdings Corp. has secured P1.4 billion in funding from Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and Security Bank for its Tanay Wind Power Project.
The latest disbursement marks the third drawdown, bringing the total amount released by BPI and Security Bank to P4.9 billion for the project in Rizal province.
“We are delighted to receive a total of P5 billion to date from BPI and Security Bank, underscoring the continued progress of our Tanay Wind Power Project’s construction,” said Carmen Diaz, chief financial officer of Alternergy Tanay in a statement.
“We appreciate the unwavering support and commitment from our lenders, which is crucial in bringing this project to fruition,” said Diaz said.
Construction of the Tanay Wind Power Project is progressing, with the first shipment of wind turbine generators, including twelve 90-meter wind blades, arriving at Dinahacan Port I in Infanta, Quezon, earlier in July.
Diaz said the next shipment of wind turbine generators is anticipated to arrive in August 2025.
The Tanay Wind Power Project is one of five renewable energy projects
Alternergy is constructing as part of its goal to achieve 500 megawatts (MW) of capacity by 2026.
Alternergy is a renewable power company with a portfolio of projects including wind, run-of-river hydro, solar, battery storage and offshore wind projects.
in service fees. Net income for the second quarter alone reached P6.4 billion, up 29 percent from a year ago. Net interest income in the first half of 2025 climbed 7 percent to P25.8 billion, supported by a 5-percent growth in loans and 11-percent increase in investment securities.
Net service fees and commissions also jumped 24 percent to P2.8 billion, boosted by deposit transactions, credit cards and bancassurance.
Trading and foreign exchange income grew 64 percent year-on-year to P1.4 billion.
Operating expenses, excluding provisions for credit losses, rose by 9 percent due to higher business taxes
and other operational costs tied to revenue growth.
“We are heartened by the bank’s positive financial results for the first half of 2025,” said PNB President and chief executive Edwin Bautista.
“The double-digit growth in profitability is a clear indication that the various strategic initiatives that were put in place are gaining traction,” he said.
Bautista said the bank is “excited to unlock new revenue streams to boost our net income as we continue to explore the use of technology, including data science and AI, in our businesses as well as forge strategic alliances with partners that will add value to our products and services.”
Jenniffer B. Austria
By Jenniffer B. Austria
The bank said in a stock exchange disclosure that earnings growth was “tempered by continuing investments in market coverage and IT spending for operational efficiency.”
BDO’s net interest income increased 7 percent, supported by a 14-percent growth in gross customer loans, which reached P3.4 trillion. This was fueled by double-digit expansion across all customer segments.
Deposits also grew by 8 percent to more than P4 trillion, with a current account/savings account (CASA) ratio of 69 percent.
Non-interest income surged by 15 percent, thanks to higher earnings from fee-based income and insurance operations.
The bank’s non-performing loan (NPL) ratio dropped to 1.75 percent, while NPL coverage remained robust at 140 percent, underscoring what it called “prudent risk management.”
BDO is set to issue its fourth ASEAN Sustainability Bonds on July 29, 2025, with a minimum offer size of
By Othel V. Campos
FUSION CX, a global customer experience (CX) services provider, on Monday announced its expansion in the Philippines with the launch of a new delivery center at 500 Shaw Boulevard in Metro Manila.
The facility, capable of housing 836 seats, marks a milestone in the company’s 15-year presence in the country.
The opening follows closely Fusion CX’s new 275-seat site in Legazpi City, strengthening the company’s national footprint.
Gov’t raises P28.4b from Treasury bill auction amid strong demand
By Thony Rose Lesaca
THE Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) said it awarded P28.4 billion worth of Treasury bills (T-bills) at its auction Monday, exceeding its initial offer of P25 billion. The auction was 4.1 times oversubscribed, with total tenders reaching P103.5 billion. This strong demand pushed T-bill rates down from the previous week’s results.
The 91-day T-bills saw P7 billion awarded, yielding an average
of 5.388 percent annually.
Meanwhile, P11.9 billion was awarded for the 182-day T-bills, with an average yield of 5.543 percent.
The 364-day T-bills reached P9.5 billion, with its rate settling at 5.627 percent.
Total tenders for each tenor were P37.8 billion, P36.7 billion and P29 billion, respectively.
The BTr said the yields in this week’s auction were “all lower than previous auction and prevailing secondary market rates.”
With established operations in Cebu and Silang, Cavite, the Manila and Legazpi centers form part of a continuing growth strategy that emphasizes inclusive talent development, regional empowerment and tech-enabled service delivery.
“We believe in the long-term potential of the Philippines, not just as a delivery hub, but as a strategic growth engine for global CX. Our continued investment here reflects our confidence in the country’s talent and capability,” said Fusion CX co-founder and chairman Pankaj Dhanuka during the launch Monday.
The Manila site blends modern infrastructure with a people-first approach. It houses over 500 CX professionals and is designed for rapid scale as client needs grow.
The new facility features an AI Solutions Command Hub powered by Omind, Fusion CX’s technology arm, which delivers real-time agent assistance, conversational AI, accent harmonization, sentiment analysis, and automation. It includes multichannel delivery zones optimized for seamless interactions across voice, chat, email and social media.
P5 billion. The offering was met with strong demand, prompting an early close to the offer period.
The bonds, which will mature in 18 months, carry an interest rate of 5.875 percent per annum. Proceeds from the fundraising activity will go toward financing sustainable projects and expanding the bank’s green portfolio.
The bank earlier raised P52.7 billion in January 2022, P63.3 billion in January 2024 and P55.7 billion in July 2024 from sustainability bond issuances.
“Amid global uncertainties from geopolitical tensions and the imposition of tariffs, the Philippines is expected to remain resilient, supported by its consumer-driven economy and sustained domestic demand,” BDO said.
The bank said it “remains wellpositioned to manage emerging risks and capitalize on opportunities given its robust capital base and diversified business franchise.”
IN BRIEF
and
(DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman (right) for
Central Office. The RBAP, led by president Jose Paolo Palileo, explored
ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY
UNDP and EU boost coastal livelihoods in 3 Basilan towns
SUMISIP, Basilan―The coastal municipalities of Sumisip, Lantawan and Tipo-Tipo have been identified as key areas for the Model Lives Project, or Modeling Livelihood Solutions for Coastal Communities in Basilan.
The project is a joint initiative co-funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in the Philippines.
Local government officials, community representatives and stakeholders from the Ministry of Trade, Investments and Tourism (MTIT), Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR), Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy (MENRE), EU and UNDP convened in Sumisip for the Project’s Stakeholder Engagement Meeting.
The session marked a crucial step in shaping livelihood strategies that empower fisherfolk communities and promote sustainable fishery practices.
The Model Lives Project was launched in January 2025 and is set to run until June 2026.
The initiative aims to offer a range of livelihood options tailored to the unique needs of coastal communities.
These include aquaculture and mariculture activities, such as fish, seaweed and shellfish farming; value-adding processes like fish preservation and product development for local markets; eco-tourism ventures such as mangrove boardwalks; and handicraft-making using marine materials.
The project also supports alternative income sources, such as boat repair services, and strengthens postharvest systems through initiatives like ice production facilities and transport support, enabling fisherfolk to bring their catch to market more efficiently. UNDP Philippines News
Deadly floods highlight need for faster, wider warnings–UN
FROM the Himalayas to rural Texas, deadly floods this month have killed hundreds and exposed dangerous gaps in early warning systems, the UN’s weather agency warned, linking the devastation to rapid urbanization, land-use change and a warming climate that traps more moisture in the atmosphere.
The UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said last week that more intense downpours and glacier outburst floods are becoming increasingly frequent, with deadly consequences for communities caught off guard.
“Flash floods are not new, but their frequency and intensity are increasing in many regions due to rapid urbanization, land-use change and a changing climate,” said Stefan Uhlenbrook, WMO Director of Hydrology, Water and Cryosphere.
Each additional degree Celsius of warming enables the air to hold about
7 per cent more water vapor.
“This is increasing the risk of more extreme rainfall events. At the same time, glacier-related flood hazards are increasing due to enhanced ice melting in a warmer climate,” he added.
Floods and flash floods claim thousands of lives each year and cause billions of dollars in damage.
In 2020, severe flooding across South Asia killed more than 6,500 people and caused $105 billion in economic losses.
Two years later, catastrophic floods in Pakistan left over 1,700 people dead, 33 million affected and losses exceeding $40 billion, reversing years of development gains.
This year, the onslaught has continued. In July alone, South Asia, East Asia and the United States have seen a string of deadly events, from monsoon rains to glacial lake bursts and sudden flash floods. UN News
Wider Marikina forest cover to protect wildlife
THE Department of Environment and Nautral Resources (DENR) is expanding efforts to preserve the Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape (UMRBPL) to protect its watersheds and ensure the sustainable management of its natural resources.
The protected area covers
26,125.64 hectares in the city of Antipolo and in the municipalities of Baras, Rodriquez, San Mateo and Tanay, all in the province of Rizal.
The DENR-Forest Management Bureau (DENR-FMB) plans to accelerate the reforestation of the UMRBPL by planting three million trees for the next three years to increase the forest cover to 43 percent from nearly 25 percent.
FMB Assistant Director Ray Thomas Kabigting stressed the ecological significance of the increase in closed forests, which are denser and more biodiverse.
“The rise in closed forest cover signifies that previously degraded or barren areas are now thriving with healthy trees,” he said, explaining how the success reflects the positive effects of sustainable forest management practices and reforestation efforts.
The area is home to threatened and endangered wildlife species. They include forest trees like narra, red and white lauan, bagtikan, kamagong and molave.
Wild fauna, meanwhile, includes birds like the Philippine bulbul, black-naped oriole and jungle fowl; mammals like the Philippine deer, wild pig and the Philippine monkey; and herpeto-fauna such as the monitor lizards and forest frogs.
The UMRBPL was proclaimed a protected area through Proclamation No. 296 dated September 26, 2011, two years after Super Typhoon Ondoy devastated lower Rizal province, Marikina City and Metro Manila.
This designation aimed to conserve the area’s biodiversity, protect its watersheds and ensure the sustainable management of its natural resources. DENR News
Heat waves put older persons at high risk, warns UNEP
First of 2 parts
As extreme heat grips many countries and becomes “the new normal,” the UN Environment Program (UNEP) warns of heightened health risks for older persons in the Frontiers 2025 Report published recently. Other highlighted impacts of climate change
include the melting of glaciers that reawaken ancient pathogens and floods that risk releasing dangerous chemicals.
The 7th edition of the Frontiers Report, The Weight of Time―Facing a new age of challenges for people and ecosystems, is part of UNEP’s Foresight Trajectory initiative and highlights emerging environmental issues as well as potential solutions.
The first edition in 2016, warned of the growing risk of zoonotic diseases, four years before the COVID-19 pandemic. This report is released as communities across China, Japan, India, Europe, USA and elsewhere face weeks of extreme heat and flooding.
“Heat waves are among the most frequent and deadly impacts of climate change, along with floods and shrinking ice cover,” said Inger Andersen, executive director of UNEP.
“We must be prepared for the risks these impacts
pose, especially for society’s most vulnerable, including older persons. Yet as this year’s Frontiers Report shows, solutions exist that can help protect communities and restore ecosystems long-thought to have been lost,” she said.
Adults aged 65 and above now form an increasingly dominant part of the world population, particularly in urban areas of low- and middle-income countries.
The report notes that annual heat-related deaths among older persons have risen by an estimated 85 percent since the 1990s. Additional risks arise from deteriorating air quality and floods in low-lying coastal cities where older persons live.
Older persons―especially those with chronic illnesses, limited mobility or frailty―are particularly vulnerable to heat-related health issues, including respiratory, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, as well as increased mortality.
(To be continued) UNEP News
Local government units play a pivotal role in safeguarding the country’s natural wealth for future generations.
They are at the forefront of building resilient and sustainable communities in the face of rapid urbanization, climate change and social and economic challenges.
Among their responsibilities is ensuring the conservation of natural resources, and securing sustainable financing for environmental protection that contribute to accelerating climate action and strengthening disaster resilience―key pillars in the Philippine Development Plan. While national governments set broad agendas, LGUs can drive innovation and tailor solutions to their specific needs. The Local Government Code of 1991 or RA 7160 empowers LGUs to have meaningful autonomy. It provides fiscal powers and authority to government officials to propose, appropriate, and release funds to agencies, office programs and projects. (To be continued) UNDP News
1st of 3 parts
Students and commuters brave the gutter-deep flood along the corner of Taft and UN Avenues in Manila following a heavy downpour brought by the enhanced southwest monsoon on July 21, 2025. Norman Cruz
The European Union and United Nations Development Program Philippines are partnering on the Model Lives Project, building sustainable livelihood solutions for the communities of Sumisip, Lantawan and Tipo-Tipo in Basilan. UNDP Philippines
Dr. Selva Ramachandran UNDP Resident Representative Forest cover of the Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape taken from the Protected Area Management Office in Sitio Baytangan, Barangay Pintong Bukawe, San Mateo, Rizal.
TUESDAY, JULY 29, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
By Jasper Valdez
ASHOWBIZ
Barbie Forteza channels quiet terror in
CTRESS Barbie Forteza is no stranger to transformation, but for her latest film, P77 (Penthouse 77), the actress took it a step further, bringing both her craft and senses to the set.
At the press conference for GMA Pictures’ upcoming horror film, held on July 22 at Xi by Cafe Guilt in Quezon City, Forteza opened up about being handpicked for the lead role while the story was still being written.
this kind of pressure,” Forteza said. “Because it means great things are expected of you.”
Derick confirmed
Cabrido that Forteza was already the top choice even during early conceptualization.
By Angelica Villanueva
SINGER-SONGWRITER MATÉO is drawing international attention with a modern take on kundiman and harana. With his warm baritone voice, heartfelt lyrics, and old-soul sensibility, MATÉO is not your typical newcomer to the OPM scene. Born Matthew Ong, he has gone from indie passion project to being one of the first Filipino artists signed to a South Korean music label.
“I’ve been listening to old songs ever since. When I was in high school, I joined Kundirana, a group where Sir Ogie Alcasid and Gary V. also came from. We sang all genres, but kundiman stuck with me. It just felt natural,” MATÉO told Manila Standard Entertainment
That early immersion in music eventually evolved into a quiet passion. Though he never had formal singing training, MATÉO developed a distinct voice through songwriting and self-produced tracks that he would later share on TikTok. It was through social media that his breakout single, “Lalim,” first gained traction.
“I wrote it as a serenade for someone who was also an artist. It was never meant to be released, but people kept asking for the full version,” he continued. The song resonated with listeners, debuting at No. 1 on Spotify’s Viral 50 Philippines chart in September 2024. It now boasts millions of streams, fueling MATÉO’s growing fan base and opening doors beyond his expectations,
Despite juggling another massive project—her lead role
—Forteza made sure she gave her full commitment to
location, step into the environment.”
The film, described by Forteza as an “alternative narrative,” blends emotional storytelling with the horror genre.
“It’s a very heartwarming film about family,” she said.
“I told Direk, ‘I’ll make this work,’” she recalled. “I didn’t use my other big project as an excuse.”
To stay in character, Forteza developed rituals that grounded her emotionally. One of her most unique methods was using a specific perfume for each role.
“I ‘I’ll stay role.
“When I smell it, I know—this is Luna,” she said, referring to P77 character. “I had a different scent for Adelina (Pulang Araw) and another one for Noreen (Beauty Empire).” She also listened to calming music before shoots and made it a point to read the entire script—not just the day’s scenes—before every filming day. With the movie shot out of sequence, she said it was essential to stay emotionally anchored.
“I had to keep going back to the full script to understand what my character had already gone through,” she explained. “You have to feel the
“Even if it’s a horror movie, it’s very relatable.”
To further develop her character, Forteza turned to other performances for inspiration. She cited Björk’s portrayal in Dancer in the Dark, a movie recommended by a friend.
“I related to her character. Luna is like that—fragile, but with quiet strength.”
Cabrido praised Forteza’s professionalism, saying she arrived on set emotionally prepared and ready to work. “It made our jobs easier,” he said. “She had already done the work before stepping on set.”
The film also stars JC Alcantara, Carlos SiguionReyna, Gina Pareño, Jackie Lou Blanco, and Rosanna Roces Alcantara, who plays a mysterious character named Theo, said it was a dream to work with Forteza.
“I’ve been watching her since I was a kid,” he said. “I’m just really happy I got to work with her.”
Before the end of the conference, Forteza thanked the media and guests for attending despite the stormy weather and expressed her pride in the project.
“This film caters to all kinds of audiences, from the youngest to the oldest,” she said. “That’s why I really brought my A-game.”
including an invitation from South Korean label Abyss Company, which discovered him on Instagram.
“At first, I thought it was a joke.
The daughter of the managing director messaged me. They flew me to Korea to write music with one of their K-drama writers. It wasn’t even in English. The song was in Tagalog. They were totally open to it,” MATÉO added.
That openness sealed the deal, he said.
As someone who previously worked in A&R and music production, MATÉO knew the value of creative control.
“What mattered most to me was freedom. And they supported what I had already built—they just gave it scale,” he said.
His version of Cinderella’s 1976 classic, “Bato Sa Buhangin,” which dropped on July 25, is perhaps the most personal of his songs to date. He describes it as his “all-time favorite OPM song.”
“I just want to sing it as it is, with as much respect to the original as possible. I hope this message about love— the kind that is sure, slow, and lasting—lives on,” the singer-songwriter shared.
Despite his rising popularity and international label backing, MATÉO remains grounded.
“I’m still hands-on with my music, 100 percent. I may have help from friends in production, but the concept, the ideas—that’s still me,” MATÉO said.
struggles, too.
“It’s hard to stand out as a baritone in a world of biriteros. I had to write songs that were comfortable for me, songs that made sense with my voice,” he added.
Yet what could have been a limitation became his strength. With original songs like Pinipili and Tungo, MATÉO leans into the intimacy and emotional depth of kundiman—qualities he believes are still at the heart of being Filipino.
As for what’s next, MATÉO is open to collaborations, especially with artists he admires like Unique Salonga
“This all began as a passion project. So knowing that people connect with it, that they keep listening, that’s everything,” he stated.
Talking about his baritone voice, he said that he had his fair share of
THE highly anticipated science fiction series Alien: Earth officially landed at Comic-Con in California on Friday, where thousands of fans watched the pilot of a new TV series in the franchise. The pop culture convention held annually in San Diego was the chosen setting for the world premiere of the FX series created by Noah Hawley
“This is by far the biggest thing I’ve ever made,” Hawley told 6,500 cheering fans in Comic-Con’s Hall H before presenting the first episode, which he also directed. And in Hall H–unlike in space–you could hear them scream.
Alien: Earth is set a couple of years before the events of Ridley Scott’s seminal 1979 film starring Sigourney Weaver. Scott served as executive producer of this expansion of the franchise, which will hit streaming
And it’s not just because she’s the lead. “It’s not about me,” she said. “It’s the material itself—it’s so intelligent, so beautifully done. I’m genuinely proud of it.”
The film premieres in cinemas on July 30.
platforms in August.
“If I have a skill at adapting these films, it’s in understanding what the original movie made me feel and why, and trying to create it anew by telling you a totally different story,” Hawley told the audience.
The panel also featured stars Sydney Chandler, Alex Lawther, Timothy Olyphant, Babou Ceesay, and Samuel Blenkin who discussed what it was like to become part of the storied franchise and share a scene with the Xenomorph.
“It’s a dream, it was surreal,” said Chandler, who plays Wendy, a “hybrid” who is a blend of human consciousness and a synthetic body. “I’ve been a sci-fi and Alien fan forever. I keep pinching myself.”
One of the world’s largest celebrations of pop culture, ComicCon brings together 130,000 people, many of whom come dressed as wizards, princesses, or characters from movies, games, or TV series.
This year, the lines to enter Hall H have been less frenetic than in previous editions. Fans accustomed to camping out at the gates of the venue to get a spot inside say the lack of a big Marvel Studios presence has eased the crush. AFP
MATÉO is now under South Korean music label Abyss Company
Fil-Am actress Tia Carrere attends the annual ‘Entertainment Weekly Comic-Con
‘P77’ director Derick Cabrido (2nd from right) with cast members (from left) JC Alcantara, Barbie Forteza, and Carlitos Suiguion-Reyna
JC Alcantara plays the role of Theo in ‘P77’
“She was already the one we had in mind when we were still in the process of writing the film,” he said.
Barbie Forteza takes the lead role in upcoming horror film,
‘Penthouse 77’
Young CEO Kryzl Jorge gives back in a big way
AT A very young age, Kryzl Jorge is already making bold moves as the CEO of lifestyle brand Purple Hearts.
The pint-sized entrepreneur is setting her sights on expanding the business by teaming up with more celebrities, starting with the breakout stars of It’s Showtime Kids, who joined her in a celebration over the weekend. The event was Kryzl’s 9th birthday celebration.
Held at Fiesta Carnival in Quezon City, the purple-themed kiddie party doubled as the launch of her first original song, “Birthday Love,” which she co-wrote.
Apart from the It’s Showtime Kids, who came to show their support and entertain the crowd, entrepreneur Anna Magkawas and actress Kiray Celis were also in attendance.
Making the event more meaningful, Kryzl also handed out foundation cheques to nine selected charities, which she said was a symbolic nod to her age and her growing commitment to giving back.
Straight jeans for every style
Uniqlo
puts spotlight on straight jeans in Fall/Winter collection
By Angelica Villanueva
LOBAL fashion brand Uniqlo is putting straight-leg denim in focus with the launch of its Fall/Winter 2025 Jeans lineup, led by the JW Anderson
G
In an exclusive preview,
The JW Anderson Straight Jeans feature a regular fit with a
wash and
silhouette.
pockets are
with JW Anderson’s logo, lending a refined touch to a style that bridges everyday
wear with designer detail.
Fashion influencer Laureen Uy, who wore the piece to the event, styled it with a preppy look.
“I went for a preppy style to bring out its classic look. Its timelessness really makes it the perfect everyday pair,” she said.
This season, Uniqlo adds two new shades to the straight jeans lineup—deep blue for women and gray for men—intended to suit a wide range of personal styles.
The women’s collection also sees the addition of two new silhouettes. The Slim Flare Trouser Jeans, under the slim fit category, are cut with a flared leg and finished with a center crease and slashed pockets for a more structured look. The Baggy Curve Jeans, part of the wide fit range, have a barrel-style shape that curves gently from the hips to the hem. A high-rise waist and laserwashed treatment give the pair both structure and a worn-in finish.
Content creator Renee Dominique, seen wearing the Baggy Curve style at the launch, noted how well the fit worked for her.
“The Baggy Curve Jeans feel like they were made for me. They’re effortless and just click with who I am. I love how they flatter my legs, perfectly complemented by a comfy high-rise waist that highlights your shape in all the right places,” Renee explained.
For men and women who prefer other silhouettes, the broader Fall/Winter collection includes a variety of options. For men, the EZY Jeans and Slim Fit Jeans remain part of the lineup. For women, the Wide Trouser Jeans and Wide Straight Jeans offer alternatives with looser fits.
TV host and sportscaster Anjo Pertierra, who also attended the event, said the wider silhouettes suit his on-air wardrobe.
“The Wide Straight Jeans easily blend with my everyday grind. As someone who often dresses in smart casual looks for shows, the wide silhouette adds the perfect contrast—it softens the sharpness of a fitted blazer or a sleek sweater and gives a more relaxed, effortless look,” he stated.
To help shoppers find the best fit, the Uniqlo app features MySize Assist, a digital tool that uses smartphone camera input and AI to estimate body shape and recommend sizes based on age, height, weight, and fit preferences.
The collection reflects Uniqlo’s continued investment in denim technology through its Jeans Innovation Center in Los Angeles. Established in 2016, the facility uses laser finishing, nano-bubbles, and bio-washing techniques to produce jeans that are both contemporary and environmentally responsible. Many styles also incorporate Japanese denim from Kaihara, known for its rich indigo color and premium aging.
More details are available at uniqlo. com/ph/en, or through @uniqlo on Facebook and @uniqlophofficial on Instagram.
JAPANESE fashion label Human Made has launched a limitededition capsule collection in collaboration with American burger chain Shake Shack, bringing together streetwear and food culture in a playful nod to both brands’ signature aesthetics.
The Human Made x Shake Shack collection dropped on July 19 through Human Made’’s online store and select physical locations, including Seoul and Hong Kong.
Known for its retro-inspired pieces and the motto “The Future is in the Past,” Human Made, founded by NIGO, brings its heritage-meetsinnovation approach to this fivepiece lineup.
The collection features a hybrid logo combining Human Made’s heart icon with Shake Shack’s burger symbol, an emblem that appears across all pieces in the drop: a graphic T-shirt, a 6-panel cap, a burgershaped cushion, a PVC pouch, and a burger pass case.
A limited-edition key ring and
pin set is also available exclusively at participating Shake Shack outlets across Asia, including the Philippines (excluding SM North Edsa, Gateway Mall 2, and NAIA Terminal 3). And the partnership doesn’t stop at fashion. An exclusive Human Made x Shake Shack menu rolled out simultaneously, featuring the Teriyaki Shack burger, Curry Cheese Fries, and a Mango Yuzu Shake, each item drawing on NIGO’s affinity for blending Japanese and American influences. In the Philippines, the burger and fries are available in select Shake Shack branches starting July 19.
Each dish from the collaboration is served in custom packaging bearing the heart-burger emblem, tying back to the capsule’s overall theme: a cultural crossover expressed through both food and fashion.
The collection is available while supplies last via humanmade. jp and in Human Made’s Tokyo, Seoul, and Hong Kong stores.
Kryzl plans to expand her business by collaborating with celebrities, starting with the stars of ‘It’s Showtime Kids’
The JW Anderson Straight Jeans’ classic straight silhouette steals the show as attendees find their perfect size with the help of the Uniqlo app’s MySize Assist feature
From left: StyLIZed Studios stylist Joy Bernardo, fashion icon and entrepreneur Laureen Uy, Uniqlo Philippines head of marketing Andrei
Borja, content creator and event host Renee Dominique, and morning show host and sportscaster
talk about their favorite pairs from the new
Jeans collection on stage
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
Filipina youth delegate speaks at UN forum on health, sustainability
MENTAL health advocate Cassandra B. Ynares , official youth delegate and member of the Philippine delegation, represented the country at the 2025 High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) and the High-Level Segment of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), held from July 14 to 24 in New York, USA.
Ynares emphasized the role of Philippine youth-led organizations in advancing mental well-being, sexual and reproductive health, and HIV awareness in Filipino communities.
In her remarks, Ynares also discussed the Department of Health’s Adolescent and Youth Health and Development Program, which supports young people’s access to essential health services.
She shared her personal experience as the founder of the CASSAma Foundation, a group focused on youth mental health through peer support circles, workshops, and safe space sessions designed to empower young people and reduce stigma.
Ynares reaffirmed the importance of collective global action and expressed support for the WHO Pandemic Treaty, which was adopted during the Philippines’ presidency of the World Health Assembly earlier this year.
During the two-week UN event, Ynares actively participated in formal and informal meetings, delivered official statements, and engaged in various UN-related activities alongside delegates from other member states.
By Nickie Wang
BANGKOK’S skyline has welcomed back an old friend, the Dusit Thani Bangkok.
Once a fixture in the city since 1970, the heritage gem reopened
who is known for his thoughtful approach to combining heritage and contemporary luxury.
Return of an
soul
with Louis Vuitton and Villa La Coste in Provence.
As a major project, this swanky hotel required a careful balance between honoring the past and embracing the future of a beloved landmark. Reimagining a space with five decades of history meant more than updating its design, it also involved preserving the emotional and cultural significance it holds for locals and visitors alike.
“We started with a vision to celebrate Thai culture on the global stage,” Fu said. “Together with Dusit’s creative team, we explored the spirit of the original property and translated it into a new skyscraper through my personal language of relaxed luxury.”
That language unfolds right from the moment guests enter. The triple-height lobby draws from traditional Thai pavilions, reinterpreted through contemporary design. A mural by Thai artist Sakon Malee and earthenware from Koh Kret root the space in local artistry. Preserved tropical trees and a tiered waterfall garden recall the original Dusit Thani’s lush surroundings.
Above, dusty-golden diamond-shaped
ceilings take inspiration from lotus leaves. Floorto-ceiling windows bathe the lobby in light, while freestanding bronze screens, made in collaboration with Project STUDIO and crafted by Dong Sculpture, feature intricate patterns that suggest movement and ascension. A palette of oak, antique bronze, mauve, teal, and sage sets a warm tone. Even the custom-designed streetlamps reflect Thai architectural silhouettes.
At the center of the space stands a jade green marble bar, envisioned as the hotel’s new gathering point. Flanked by two antique pillars salvaged from the original Benjarong restaurant, the lobby now functions as what Fu calls “a living room for Bangkok society.” Guest rooms, starting at 50 square meters,
continue the story of gentle transformation. Each one is anchored by a five-meter-wide, single-glass window that frames uninterrupted views of Lumpini Park. Designed to evoke the Thai sala asai, or rest pavilion, the cantilevered daybed allows guests to stretch out and look directly into the city’s green heart.
Color palettes remain soft—sage, celadon, pale champagne, and gold—paired with oak paneling and furniture that gently references traditional Thai forms. Latticework and handwoven headboards made by local artisans echo murals from the original hotel, while adding a contemporary layer of texture.
“The idea was to make these rooms distinctively Dusit Thani Bangkok—unlike any other luxury accommodation in the city,” Fu said.
The hotel now sits as a major landmark at Dusit Central Park, a mixed-use development that includes Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside, a state-of-the-art office tower, a high-end retail center, and an 11,200-squaremeter roof park—all set to open this year.
“This has been a journey of curation and craftsmanship,” Fu said. “We’ve breathed new life into a beloved landmark, creating a timeless destination that will inspire and enchant generations to come.”
Bookings for Dusit Thani Bangkok are now available at dusit.com.
Cassandra B. Ynares represents the Philippines at the 2025 UN HLPF and ECOSOC in New York
The Dusit Duplex Suite showcases refined comfort with a sculptural staircase, round dining nook, and panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline Guest rooms feature wide windows framing Lumpini Park, with design elements echoing Thai rest pavilions and traditional textures
The hotel’s lobby evokes traditional Thai pavilions with intricate bronze screens and a color palette inspired by
YOUTH LEADER. Cassandra B. Ynares highlights youth-led
Interior architect André Fu brings his signature ‘relaxed luxury’ to reimagining the iconic hotel for a new generation
The Dusit Thani Bangkok lobby blends Thai artistry with modern elegance, featuring triple-height ceilings and locally crafted details