Manila Standard - 2025 August 2 - Saturday

19 SENATORS AGREE SC DECISION SHOULD BE RESPECTED—JINGGOY

By Ram Superable

SENATE

revealed that at least 19 senators agree there is no need to question the Supreme Court’s decision although the Senate is expected to vote on August 6 regarding its next steps following the ruling.

\He confirmed that he will not sign the draft resolution circulated by Senator Francis Pangilinan, which urges

By Charles Dantes

By Charles Dantes and Maricel Cruz

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will veto any budget insertions or changes that are “useless and could only lead to abuse,” the Palace on Friday said.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Congress should not abuse its so-called power of the purse, adding that the President is open to proposals to make the bicameral budget deliberations open to the public to ensure that the spending plan is “clean.” Castro noted the National Expenditure Program (NEP) was carefully prepared and crafted by Marcos and his Cabinet.

Her remarks came after Senate President Francis Escudero said Congress, which holds the constitutional "power of the purse," has the authority to revise the proposed budget, and that agency heads themselves often seek realignments during congressional deliberations.

But Castro countered that while Congress has budgetary authority, the executive branch is concerned about potential abuses in the form of unnecessary insertions or reallocations with no clear public benefit.

“The so-called power of the purse should not be abused and there should be no many insertions

By Pot Chavez

RELATIVES of “missing sabungeros” filed complaints of

By Othel V. Campos

ment

By Alena Mae S. Flores

2-3 cyclones could enter PAR in August

THE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Friday announced that two to three tropical cyclones could enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this month.

Moreover, PAGASA expects a total of 17 tropical cyclones to enter PAR between August this year and January 2026. Between 2 to 4 tropical cyclones are forecast in September, 2 to 4 in October, 2 or 3 in November, 1 or 2 in December, and 0 or 1 in

PBBM...

From A1

that will not be truly useful. That is all the President wants,” she said.

“If these insertions can be said to be meaningful, they probably won't be vetoed, but if they are useless and could only lead to abuse, the President will not hesitate to veto them,” she added.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on Tuesday warned of possible delays in the implementation of programs, activities and projects if there would be changes

Sabungeros’...

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January 2026.

The forecast is based on the state weather bureau's 186th Climate Outlook Forum dated July 29.

PAGASA said the next update will be during its 187th Climate Outlook Forum on August 27.

in the 2026 NEP.

Mr. Marcos, in his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, said he would veto the 2026 General Appropriations Bill if it is not aligned with the NEP.

The NEP is the national government’s spending plan for the next fiscal year and serves as the basis of Congress in crafting the GAB, which then becomes the General Appropriations Act once signed into law by the President.

Mr. Marcos on July 15 approved the proposed P6.793-trillion budget for 2026, the country’s highest to date, which is expected to support key

“He is the main player; he is Totoy’s [Patidongan] boss. It is really important that this [case] be tried in court,” the DOJ chief said. Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon told justice reporters that "during the evaluation, it is only the party that is filing the complaint whose evidence is presented to us that will be considered."

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This is based on the price movement indication for the week of Aug. 4, 2025 based on this week’s Mean of Platts Singapore and forex average (first 4 days) versus last week’s full week average.

“The oil markets responded positively following the trade deal between the US and European Union, while the threat of US sanctions on Russia and buyers of Russian oil has also helped support oil prices this week,” Bellas said.

He said diesel prices continued to strengthen week-on-week as supply tightened while the bigger-than-expected decline in US gasoline stocks supported the view of a strong driving season and as peak summer demand surges.

The depreciation of the peso against the US dollar has also pushed this week’s price average higher than last week, Bellas said.

“Recently, the tariff threats, news of extension and uncertainty surrounding countries yet to negotiate a trade deal with the US, and the delay in the cutting of interest by the US Federal Reserve have weighed on crude prices,” he said.

Rodela Romero, Department of Energy director for the Oil Industry Management Bureau said that kerosene prices may also increase by around P0.80 per liter.

Romero said renewed concerns over supply disruptions following US President Trump’s sanction on Russia and Iranian oil and hopes of improved economic activity after the US - EU trade deal pushed up oil prices.

Meanwhile, Petron Corp. said it will implement a P2.50 per kg (VATinclusive) rollback in LPG prices effective 12:01 AM Aug 1.

“This reflects the international contract price of LPG for the month of August,” the company said.

Solane also announced a price rollback of P2.45 per kilo effective Aug. 1, 2025 at 8AM.

"If it is enough, then it can be referred for preliminary investigation, and the other parties will be informed so they can also answer," he added.

Fadullon explained that they cannot disclose any information yet since they are still in an evaluation stage, noting, "It is as if no case yet has been filed for preliminary investigation."

However, prosecutors are already in the process of evaluating the complaints to determine if there is suffi-

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the White House said the measures will take effect in a week for most countries, not Friday as previously expected.

The tariffs are a demonstration of raw economic power that Trump sees putting US exporters in a stronger position while encouraging domestic manufacturing by keeping out foreign imports.

But the muscular approach has raised fears of inflation and other economic fallout in the world's biggest economy.

Trump raised duties on nearly 70 economies, from a current 10 percent level imposed in April when he unleashed "reciprocal" tariffs citing unfair trade practices.

The new, steeper levels listed in an executive order vary by trading partner and go as high as 41 percent.

Any goods "transshipped" through other jurisdictions to avoid US duties would be hit with an additional 40-percent tariff, the order stated.

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is not relying solely on the temporary reprieve and is actively implementing measures to protect local exporters, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), from the impact of the expected 19 percent tariff hike.

“On the part of the Philippine government, we will continue with our talks with the US, and hopefully we can come up with a mutually beneficial deal the soonest possible time. In the meantime, we will continue to expand our trade network to provide more business opportunities and enhanced market access for our exporters,” Roque said.

She added that the DTI is prepared to help them access new markets, improve their product competitiveness, and explore opportunities locally and globally.

Among the interventions being implemented by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is the mobilization of its foreign trade offices to identify new buyers and open market opportunities across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

These offices are working in coordination with embassies and trade attachés to fast-track connections for af-

programs in education, infrastructure, digitalization, health, and social services.

Castro added the President wants the bicameral conference committee meetings on the 2026 budget to be open to the public to ensure transparency in the process.

Speaker Martin Romualdez earlier said the House will open to civil society observers and watchdogs the traditionally closed bicameral conference committee – a historic reform that would usher in a new era of transparency and public accountability in government budgeting.

“Transparency is not just a value;

cient evidence to move forward, he assured. While he confirmed that the statements of relatives are already included, he noted that they have yet to review whether it also includes the narratives of e-sabong whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan.

Remulla meanwhile called out the Philippine National Police (PNP) for claiming that no DNA profiles can be obtained from the bones found in Taal Lake, describing it as "premature."

fected exporters.

In parallel, the DTI is intensifying trade missions and market-matching activities to help local businesses establish new export linkages.

At the sidelines of the 31st National Retail Conference and Expo 2025, Roque emphasized that the Department is expanding support programs focused on product development, standards compliance, and access to financing, ensuring that exporters can meet evolving international requirements and stay competitive in the global market.

She also cited the Philippines’ push to diversify trade through new and pending free trade agreements, including the CEPA with the UAE and ongoing negotiations with Israel and Chile.

The US tariff is scheduled to rise to 19 percent after August 7 unless a new agreement is reached.

Roque stressed that the DTI remains committed to helping Filipino exporters remain resilient and competitive regardless of the outcome.

The American leader separately hiked tariffs on Canadian goods from 25 percent to 35 percent—starting Friday.

He had warned of trade consequences for Canada after Prime Minister Mark Carney announced plans to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September.

Trump's order cited Canada's failure to "cooperate in curbing the ongoing flood of fentanyl and other illicit drugs" as well as its "retaliation" against his measures.

Carney said his government was "disappointed" with the hike, citing its efforts to crack down on fentanyl and increase border security.

Trump gave more time to neighbor and major trading partner Mexico, delaying for 90 days a threat to increase tariffs from 25 percent to 30 percent, after holding talks with President Claudia Sheinbaum.

Exemptions remain, however, for a wide range of Canadian and Mexican goods entering the United States under a North American trade pact.

With questions hanging over the effectiveness of bilateral trade deals already struck—including with the European Union and Japan—the outcome of Trump's overall plan remained uncertain.

"No doubt about it—the executive order and related agreements concluded over the past few months tears up the trade rule book that has governed international trade since World War II," said

it is a weapon against corruption. This reform will not only earn public trust but will also strengthen inclusive and participatory governance,” Romualdez said.

At the Senate, the minority bloc likewise filed a joint resolution calling for full transparency and accountability in the proceedings of the bicameral conference committee, particularly during the passage of national budget laws.

The bloc said "the most serious irregularity” in the 2025 budget “was the violation of the constitutionally mandated provision that education shall have the highest budgetary priority.”

He underscored that the PNP will no longer talk about DNA testing of the remains recovered from the lake.

On Tuesday, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) divers retrieved a human skull from the lake amid the search and retrieval operations.

The skull is only the latest among several human bones fished out of the sprawling lake since search efforts began last month, bolstering Patidongan’s claim that murdered people were indeed dumped there.

Wendy Cutler, senior vice president of the Asia Society Policy Institute.

"Whether our partners can preserve it without the United States is an open question," she added.

Beijing warned that US protectionism "harms the interests of all parties."

"The Chinese side's opposition to tariffs has been consistent and clear," foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said, adding: "There is no winner in a tariff war or trade war."

The elevated duties come after Washington twice postponed their implementation amid a frantic series of negotiations, alongside announcements of new duties and deals with partners.

The 79-year-old Republican has made tariffs core to his protectionist brand of hard-right politics. On Thursday, he claimed the US economy had "no chance of survival or success" without levies.

But the latest salvo came amid legal challenges against Trump's use of emergency economic powers.

After a lower court said the president exceeded his authority, the US Court of Appeals heard arguments Thursday in cases against the blanket tariffs targeting different countries.

While the president has touted a surge in customs revenues this year, economists warn the duties could fuel inflation.

Proponents of his policy argue their impact will be one-off, but analysts are awaiting further data to gauge for more persistent effects.

Those who managed to strike deals with Washington to avert steeper threatened levies included Vietnam, Japan, Indonesia, the Philippines, South Korea and the European Union.Among other tariff levels adjusted in Trump's latest order, Switzerland now faces a higher 39 percent duty.

The tariff on Taiwanese products was revised down to 20 percent from 32 percent, but its President Lai Chingte vowed to seek an even lower level.

In Southeast Asia, Phnom Penh and Bangkok welcomed news that they each face a 19-percent tariff—down from initial threatened levels of 49 percent in Cambodia and 36 percent in Thailand.

Britain also reached a pact with the United States, although it was not originally targeted by higher "reciprocal" tariffs.

Notably excluded from the drama was China, which faces an August 12 deadline instead, when duties could bounce back to higher levels. With AFP

Malacañang...

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online gambling on Filipino families, a view shared by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

Solons and clergymen calling for a total ban on online gambling point out that its social costs significantly outweigh the revenue it contributes to the state’s coffers.

However, Castro emphasized that the administration prefers a datadriven approach before making any changes in the government’s existing policies on the gaming sector.

"The President wants it studied before rushing into any action," the Palace spokesperson said. She pointed out that illegal online gambling platforms, rather than licensed operators, may be causing the social issues highlighted by those seeking a total ban.

Citing e-sabong (online cockfighting) as an example, Castro noted that despite its official ban, reports have confirmed its continued underground operation, raising questions about enforcement and who truly benefits from such illegal activities.

The Palace official warned against rushing to shut down licensed online gambling operators without evaluating the broader implications on government revenue and public services.

She noted that some legal gambling entities contribute funds that support students and social programs.

Recently, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) chairman Alejandro Tengco warned that a total ban on online gambling could cost the state over P100 billion in revenues.

Still, CBCP president, Kalookan Archbishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David, wrote PAGCOR a letter criticizing it for the increase in online gambling, stressing that no regulatory actions can truly protect minors and vulnerable populations from its harmful consequences.

“Responsible online gambling is a contradiction in terms,” the prelate wrote.

Likewise, Education Secretary Sonny Angara has called for tighter controls on online gambling platforms that could be luring some students and minors.

The education secretary raised concerns about how some minors could be using funds intended for tuition and other school expenses to gamble online, a behavior he warned could have damaging long-term effects.

19 senators...

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the Supreme Court to revisit its decision on the impeachment case.

"It is already executory, so we have to abide by the ruling of the Supreme Court," Estrada noted, adding that no matter how well the resolution is explained, the Senate is still bound to obey the High Court’s decision.

“If we will not abide by the ruling of the SC, we are going to flirt with a constitutional crisis. And if there’s a constitutional crisis, what will happen next? There will be chaos in the government," he said.

Estrada said Pangilinan's draft resolution has so far gained the signatures of Senators Risa Hontiveros, Bam Aquino, Tito Sotto, and Pangilinan himself.

He added that if the House of Representatives files a motion for reconsideration and succeeds in reversing the ruling, only then will the Senate reconsider its position on the matter.

Courtesy of DOST-PAGASA

NEWS IN BRIEF

8 Reds killed in clash with troops in Samar

AT LEAST eight suspected New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas were reported killed in two separate encounters with government forces in Barangay San Isidro, Las Navas, Northern Samar, on Thursday.

The first skirmish erupted past midnight when troops of the Army’s 8 th Infantry Division assaulted a rebel camp in the highland of Las Navas.

“The clash yielded an intense exchange of fire, resulting in the death of seven armed rebels and seizure of five M16 rifles and one R4 rifle with an attached M203 grenade launcher,” 8ID spokesman Capt. Jefferson Mariano said in a phone interview.

By midmorning, another firefight took place as reinforcement from the 803rd Infantry Brigade caught up with the fleeing insurgents, leaving another NPA member dead. Rex Espiritu

Solon eyes regulation over motorcycle taxis

A PARTY-list lawmaker has filed a bill seeking to impose stricter regulation on the operation of motorcycle taxis to ensure the safety of riders and passengers in light of the rising number of fatal road accidents.

AGIMAT party-list Rep. Bryan Revilla filed House Bill 276, or the proposed “Motorcycles-for-Hire Act with a view to imposing stricter control on motorcycle taxis.

This recognizes motorcycle taxis as public utility vehicles, establishing strict safety standards, insurance requirements, and digital platform accountability.

The measure mandates the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to issue franchises for motorcycle taxis, requires professional licensing for riders, mandates accident insurance, enforces a multi-homing policy, and imposes strict penalties for colorum operations. Maricel V. Cruz

Bill extends realty tax amnesty by three years

BATAAN First District Rep. Antonino Roman has filed a bill seeking to extend the real estate tax amnesty period under Republic Act No. 11213 (as amended) for another three years ending in June 14, 2028.

House Bill 609 aims to give more families, especially those facing financial or legal difficulties, enough time to settle unpaid estate taxes, transfer land titles, and make productive use of inherited property.

The measure keeps the current procedures for filing and payment, and calls on the Department of Finance and the Bureau of Internal Revenue to issue updated guidelines.

Roman said many heirs still struggle with legal issues, missing documents, or lack of money. Butch Gunio

‘PBBM to enhance PH-India ties’

By Charles Dantes

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday said President Marcos’ upcoming state visit to India will focus on strengthening strategic and economic partnerships as the Philippines and India mark 75 years of diplomatic relations.

“This visit is part of the continuing effort to proactively engage India and open up future opportunities,” Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Evangeline Ducrocq told reporters during a Palace press briefing.

Mr. Marcos is expected to meet with Indian President Droupadi Murmu and hold a bilateral meeting with Prime

Minister Modi in New Delhi.

He will also confer with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President and Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda.

India’s BJP leads the National Democratic Alliance and is the country’s largest ruling political party.

In addition to official meetings, Marcos will headline business forums in

both New Delhi and Bangalore, India’s

tech hub. Several Indian firms are reportedly preparing to invest in the Philippine market, and Indian CEOs have requested one-on-one meetings with the President.

Ducrocq said the President’s bilateral meeting with Modi will cover a wide range of areas, including defense and security, trade and investment, science and technology, and political affairs.

The two leaders are also expected to exchange views on regional and global issues of shared interest.

While questions arose about whether the Philippines would pursue further defense agreements, particularly in light of its recent purchase of BrahMos

DOH clarifies parameters of zero-balance or no billing policy

By Ram Superable

THE Department of Health (DOH) on

Friday clarified that the zero-balance billing policy fully covers patients admitted to basic or ward accommodations in DOH hospitals regardless of a patient’s economic status, occupation, or PhilHealth contribution history.

Assistant Secretary and spokes -

person Dr. Albert Domingo during an interview explained that any Filipino admitted to a DOH-run hospital under basic accommodation is entitled to zero out-of-pocket expenses for hospitalization.

“Even if you haven’t been contributing to PhilHealth, you’re still eligible under the Universal Health Care Act as an indirect contributor through taxes

like sin tax,” Domingo said.

He added that the policy ensures that patients will not be billed for their stay, procedures, or required medical supplies while in basic accommodations.

However, he noted that if a patient requested to be transferred to a private room, the zero-balance billing policy no longer applies.

“There’s confusion when people

think they need to be interviewed or assessed first before availing of zerobalance billing. That’s the old system. We don’t follow that anymore,” he said in response to differing interpretations of the policy.

The DOH reminded that not all public hospitals are under its direct control, with many operated by local governments or other government agencies.

missile systems and joint maritime patrols with India in the West Philippine Sea, Ducrocq declined to confirm any new military procurement talks.

“We defer this matter to the Department of National Defense,” Ducrocq said.

Asked about a possible Reciprocal Access Agreement similar to pacts with other defense partners, Ducrocq said there were currently “no talks on this matter.”

The Philippine delegation includes Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Teresa Lazaro, National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go, and other Cabinet members.

Speaker gains wider support in South solon

By Maricel V. Cruz

AN INCREASING number of people in Mindanao supports the House of Representatives and its principal leader, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, according to House Deputy Majority Leader and Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong. Adiong said wider support for Speaker Romualdez and the chamber he leads was reflected in the recent 2025 second-quarter survey of independent pollster OCTA Research. He said the survey showed that Speaker Romualdez improved his trust level nationwide by three percentage points to 57 percent, while his performance rating increased by four points to 59 percent. He added that he noticed a similar upward trend in Mindanao, which was acknowledged at the bailiwick of the Dutertes.

Adiong noted, based on the OCTA survey results, that Speaker Romualdez’s trust rating in Mindanao inched up by one point, from 35 percent in the first quarter to 36 percent in the second quarter; while the House leader’s performance mark showed a three-point jump to 43 percent over the same period.

BSKE moved to Nov. 2026—Comelec

By Vito Barcelo

COMMISSION on Elections (Comelec) chairman

George Erwin Garcia on Friday confirmed that the next Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) will be moved from Dec. 1, 2025 to November 2026.

“The Palace informed us that there will be a formal signing of the law (regarding) BSKE fixing of term and postponement on August 12 at 2 p.m.,” Garcia told reporters in a Viber message.

Garcia said the postponement will be announced when the 10-day registration period in preparation for the BSKE elections begins.

The Comelec chief said the legislation will also establish uniform term limits, permitting baran-

gay (village) chairpersons and councilors (kagawad) to hold office for two consecutive four-year terms, whereas SK officials will be restricted to one four-year term.

The change aims to align the length of terms, particularly since the current officials have only served for two years due to previous election delays.

The last BSKE were held in October 2023 after multiple postponements.

Garcia said they are ready to implement President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s directive.

“Should the village and youth elections be delayed, he mentioned that the election body would have additional time to prepare following the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE) on October 1,” according to the poll body chairman.

LEADER. Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez joins leaders of the Associated Labor Union-Trade Union Congress of the

Mendoza. Roy Pelovello

17-hr NCR street parking ban pushed

By Joel Zurbano

THE Metro Manila Council and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority agreed with the proposal of the Department of the Interior and Local Government to ban parking on all public streets between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. to reduce traffic congestion.

The MMC, composed of the 15 mayors in the National Capital Region and the policy-making body of the MMDA, is set to create a technical working group (TWG) on the matter.

This initiative is in line with the directive

of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to maintain the integrity of cleared roads, prevent the recurrence of obstructions, and ensure continuous safe access for all road users.

MMDA chairman Romando Artes, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, and

IN BRIEF

SLEX northbound interchange opens in San Pedro, Laguna

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Friday opened the northbound interchange of the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) in San Pedro City, Laguna, providing the city and its neighboring areas the fastest route to Metro Manila and the most convenient entry from farther south.

“This project stands as a clear example of what we can achieve when we work together – government, private sector, and communities united under a shared goal. It reflects our broader commitment under the Build Better More Infrastructure Agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., toward building a more connected, more resilient, and more inclusive ‘Bagong Pilipinas,’” Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan said. The new interchange will address the long-standing requests of San Pedro City residents for a northbound exit, given that only a southbound exit exists. Vito Barcelo and Roy Tomandao

3 nabbed, P8.7-m shabu

seized in

Tarlac, Cebu

ops THREE suspects, including two high-value individuals, were arrested in separate anti-drug operations in Tarlac and Cebu on Friday, with authorities confiscating P8.7 million worth of suspected shabu.

In a statement, Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) Brig. Gen. Edwin Quilates said the suspect identified as alias Jervey, 39, was arrested in a buy-bust operation around 1 a.m. in Brgy. San Bartolome, Concepcion in Tarlac.

The suspect yielded 1,100 grams of suspected shabu with a standard drug price of over P7.4 million.

The arrested suspect was brought to the Concepcion Municipal Police Station for documentation and proper disposition, while the pieces of drug evidence will be turned over to the Tarlac Provincial Forensic Unit for laboratory examination. Vince Lopez

Kush shipment worth P2m seized at NAIA post office

GOVERNMENT agents assigned at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport seized six abandoned parcels containing hybrid cannabis worth more than P2 million at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC) in Pasay City.

A composite team from the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (IADITG), the Bureau of Customs, and the Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNP-Avsegroup) conducted the operation on Thursday, July 31.

The seized drugs, weighing around 1,502 grams of kush marijuana, have a street value of P2,102,800.

The contraband was discovered when suspicious images appeared during X-ray screening by Customs personnel. This prompted the operator to notify the IADITG for further inspection. A K9 unit dog also detected the presence of illegal drugs. Joel E. Zurbano

MAKING FILIPINO LIVES BETTER. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leads the distribution of more than 100 new PCSO patient transport vehicles (PTVs) for Lanao del Sur, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Isabela City.

re-elected MMC President San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora led the meeting held at the PNP Multi-Purpose Hall in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Friday, August 1, 2025.

During the MMC meeting, the DILG proposed a solution to alleviate traffic congestion, particularly by prohibiting parking on all public streets between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m.

“The law says that public streets are not for public enterprise. We will now designate them as ‘no parking zones,’ especially those that affect Metro Manila’s traffic,” Remulla said.

Artes, on the other hand, suggested implementing the parking ban on all public streets, aligned with the MMDA’s expanded number coding scheme, from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The MMDA and DILG sought feedback and suggestions from the local chief executives of Metro Manila, and all parties agreed to form a TWG to further study the matter.

“We will come up with the final version on September 1. It will be a wholeof-city map—a work in progress,” said Remulla, assuring that the implementation will be done on a granular level.

DSWD accepts GCash for minors’ travel permits

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Friday announced it is now accepting GCash as an alternative payment mode for applications under the Minors Traveling Abroad (MTA) system and the Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System (HELPS). Applicants may simply choose “GCash” as their payment option on the final page of the online application form to use the service.

“We have added GCash to make it easier and closer to the public to pay the fees for obtaining travel clearance and certificate of exemption for children who will travel abroad, and also for the application of the certificate of registration, license to operate, and accreditation of the social welfare and development agencies that are our partners in protecting the welfare of the vulnerable sector,” DSWD’s Standards Bureau Director Megan Therese Manahan said in a mix of English and Filipino. She said the MTA system and HELPS are part of the DSWD’s digitalization push in support of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to automate up to 90 percent of government transactions to improve public service delivery.

Manahan noted that other online payment options, such as the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and Maya, will remain available. Through the MTA, the DSWD issues travel clearances to Filipino minors traveling abroad to ensure their protection against trafficking, exploitation, and other forms of abuse.

Gov’t

distributes patient transport vehicles in Mindanao

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving access to healthcare services nationwide by providing every local government unit with at least one Patient Transport Vehicle (PTV), a more practical and accessible alternative to traditional ambulances.

“These are not the large, shiny ambulances you see in movies. We chose a more practical design, one that can navigate narrow roads and can be repaired easily by local mechanics,” the President said.

Speaking in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte during the distribution of the vehicles to LGUs in the Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao del Sur, Mr. Marcos emphasized that the initiative is part of the national government’s effort to alleviate healthcare disparities, especially in underserved and remote areas.

The President said 1,067 PTV units have already been distributed by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office since June 2022.

The initial rollout prioritized fourth, fifth, and sixth-class municipalities that often lack basic emergency medical services. With 1,452 cities and municipalities nationwide, the goal is for each to have at least one unit by the end of the year, with the possibility of allocating more for larger or highdemand areas.

THE Department of Migrant Workers has simultaneously shut down eight branches of a visa consultancy firm nationwide after it was found to be illegally recruiting Filipino workers, specifically teachers, for jobs in the United States.

In a closure operation on Friday led by Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac at the main office of the Visa to America Manila Inc. in Ortigas, Pasig City, he said the firm offers job placements to the US under the H-1B and J-1 visa categories, without a DMW license. H-1B and J-1 visa categories are legitimate temporary work and exchange visas in the US. “Their modus operandi is supposedly visa assistance, travel consultancy, things like that, visa consultancy, but in reality, they are matching, they are offering jobs abroad without a DMW license,” he said.

CRAFT OF SCALE. Model kit builders and enthusiasts troop to the Ayala Malls Manila Bay for the Philippine Scale Model Show 2025. The four-day event runs until August 3. Richmond Chi

OPINION

Message delivery

IF YOU type the words “food delivery” in an online search, chances are, the results would contain restaurant delivery services. The results would be the same even if you capitalized the F and the D. This is how safe and harmless the title of the movie Food Delivery sounds.

In truth, the documentary directed by Babyruth Villarama has extraordinary fangs. From its making to its eventual Philippine premiere just last Sunday, July 27, the filmmakers have faced considerable peril as the movie tries to deliver an important message to Filipinos: what is ours is ours, and must be defended. The movie follows members of the Philippine Navy in their patrol mission to areas of the West Philippine Sea, well within our Exclusive Economic Zone. Food and other supplies are delivered to them in blue drums, and then they are left by themselves on the mission. They talk about their concerns – having to earn for their families, failing to communicate with loved ones or gain access to financial services because they are somewhere so remote it does not have signal, and braving harassment from the Chinese.

And then the movie focuses on a fishing community in Zambales. It zooms in on the life of Arnel Satam, who in September 2023, onboard his fishing boat, was chased by the Chinese boats and driven away from his usual fishing ground near Scarborough Shoal. The chase lasted several minutes; in subsequent interviews, Satam said he just laughed at the Chinese who were desperate to scare him.

But of course, this is not a laughing matter. In Food Delivery, Satam, fellow fisherman Paulo Panicpic, and their peers give firsthand accounts of the harassment they have been experiencing from the Chinese. These acts compromise their livelihood and their safety. The film concludes with the continued search for four missing amid frantic, days-on-end efforts by other fishermen to look for them. They are still missing. The documentary was supposed to be part of the Puregold Cinepanalo 2025 Film Festival, but it was eventually excluded from the lineup. The producers then ventured to make their film part of the Doc Edge Festival in New Zealand. Upon getting wind of this, China’s Consulate-General in

Auckland made a formal request to the organizers to refrain from showing Food Delivery. “This documentary disregarded history and facts and is designed to amplify the Philippines’ wrong position on the issue concerning the South China Sea and deliberately distort and hype up the maritime situation,” said the Consulate-General.

Doc Edge stood its ground. The movie went on to win the Tides of Change award at the festival in early July. And now, after being shown and recognized elsewhere, Food Delivery is home – albeit in a limited capacity.

Despite its harmlesssounding title, Food Delivery has extraordinary fangs

VIPs were in attendance during Sunday’s premiere – defense officials, politicians, members of the diplomatic community, and Satam and Pumicpic who were roundly applauded for their stories, bravery, and candor.

There will be limited screenings at Powerplant Mall this first week of August, and ways to secure tickets are available online. Whether or not the movie will be shown commercially in other popular, more accessible cinemas nationwide remains a question. Powerful forces still wield enormous influence.

But this is a message that must be delivered to as many Filipinos as possible. The Philippines has a legitimate right to areas within its EEZ, and must resist all attempts to bully us – fisherfolk or soldiers, bancas or bigger vessels – out of an area that is validly ours to begin with. We have the power of international law and the support of many other countries behind us. This is affirmed by the July 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration that decided in our favor.

The WPS is not disputed territory – it is already ours, even as our giant neighbor to the West refuses to acknowledge, much less abide by, this.

So please, if you can, go watch this movie. And then create a clamor so that more theaters would be brave enough to be the bearer of a message that strikes at the core of who we are.

PBBM is cleaning the house, not just making promises

By Jose Antonio Goitia

THE air after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address last July 28 felt different. As Chairman Emeritus of several civic-oriented groups, I’ve seen my share of SONAs – speeches filled with grand promises, often sugarcoated realities. But this time, the lines were firm, honest, and, frankly, solutions are long overdue.

For once, we have a President who’s not pretending everything is okay. He’s facing the mess, and he’s clearly committed to cleaning it up. What truly struck a chord with me were his candid remarks on corruption, particularly within government infrastructure projects like flood control.

To hear the President admit that cartels are operating within the system, and then to promise they would be dismantled – that was a powerful moment. Flood control has become a

dirty business for far too long.

The money meant to protect lives is being pocketed by unscrupulous individuals. The fact that the President called that out in front of the nation shows he’s serious about getting to the root of the problem.

What also deeply impressed me was the President’s focus on long-term reforms in crucial sectors like agriculture, education, and digital services

As a long-time public servant and an advocate for institutional reform, I can say the President’s speech reflected a clear sense of direction.

EDITORIAL

Disasters’ dose of reality

BEYOND the usual shifting of pages on the swath of death and destruction inflicted by three weather disturbances last month, our leaders should now see the red flags in the national capital region and elsewhere.

At least 34 people were reported killed in Metro Manila, northern and central Luzon while infrastructure damage hit the P9.49 billion rung, which impacted Regions 1, 2, 3, the Cordillera Administrative Region, Regions 4A, 4B, 5, 6, 10, and Negros Island Region.

In this country which averages 20 typhoons a year, more than a dozen storms are still expected to exhale their wrath as they move, separately, westward from the Pacific Ocean and slam a large corridor on the country’s eastern seaboard, threatening nearly 67,000 farmers and fisherfolk still reeling from the shock inflicted by Crising, Dante and Emong.

Positioned along the “typhoon belt” and within the Pacific Ring of Fire, this nation of 117 million has become exceedingly exposed to calamitous events, including volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, typhoons, floodwaters, and landslides.

As though it was not enough a misfortune to have to average 20 typhoons each year, the country is often on its toes due to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions with 24 active

There was no drama, no empty slogans, just a focus on the work that needs to be done. He laid out what’s been accomplished and what still needs fixing. He didn’t sugar-coat anything; he just told the truth. And the results are tangible. You can criticize all you want, but the progress in infrastructure is undeniable. The continued rollout of “Build Better More” is not just a slogan; it’s a reality. The airports, the trains, the roads, the terminals—those are real. They’re not drawings or press releases. That’s progress you can see and feel across the country.

On foreign policy and national defense, President Marcos’s approach is one I wholeheartedly support: working strategically with allies while as-

volcanoes.

These 24, part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, put this archipelagic country under frequent seismic and volcanic activity.

We add our voice to the call on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and our national legislators to give precedency to the creation of a Department of Disaster Resilience

The Philippines experiences a multitude of natural disasters annually, resulting in an average of over 1,000 deaths per year from earthquakes, floods, landslides, and other natural hazards.

Between 1990 and 2006, the country saw an average of 1,230 deaths per year from 520 disasters. A more

serting our country’s sovereignty. This isn’t about being submissive. It’s about being strategic. We don’t have the luxury of time to stay neutral and reactive in today’s complex global landscape. Marcos is standing his ground, and that matters profoundly for our national interest. What also deeply impressed me was the President’s focus on longterm reforms in crucial sectors like agriculture, education, and digital services. While others might be busy preparing for the next election cycle, President Marcos is clearly thinking about the kind of Philippines the next generation will inherit. He’s not performing to get cheers; he’s laying foundations for the future.

recent estimate, before the pandemic, cited an average of 1,344 deaths annually.

Last month we saw the unsparing floodwaters caused several evacuations, with people taking shelter in schools and other evacuation centers, while surviving kin mourned the deaths of relations due to drowning and electrocution during the storms which disrupted as severely transportation.

The storms have been aggravated by the monsoon season, which brought continuous heavy rainfall, which flooded low-lying areas like much of the national capital region, which had become, in the lingo of wags, the national capital river.

It is in this regard that we add our voice to the call on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and our national legislators to give precedency to the creation of a Department of Disaster Resilience.

This department can focus on proactive measures to minimize the impact of natural disasters.

This would include developing comprehensive disaster risk reduction and management plans, integrating these plans into national and local development policies, and strengthening early warning systems.

The department can also improve infrastructure, enhance community preparedness, and ensure efficient response and recovery mechanisms.

In a time often filled with noise and political showmanship, President Marcos is doing something rare—he is leading with calm, with focus, and with a profound sense of responsibility. This wasn’t just a speech. It was a wake-up call. And it sent a clear message: the President is not here to entertain. He’s here to deliver.

(The author, who holds an LLB, master’s public administration, master’s in national security administration and a doctorate in philosophy, is the Chairman Emeritus of Alyansa ng Bantay sa Kapayapaan at Demokrasya, Peoples Alliance for Democracy and Reforms, Liga Independencia Pilipinas and Filipinos Do Not Yield Movement.)

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in horizontal format in traditional pen, of a giant wave about to wash out a densely packed Metro Manila.

AUGUST 2, 2025

Trump envoy to inspect Gaza aid as pressure mounts on Israel

IN BRIEF

Bear attacks woman outside disabled home

TOKYO – A woman in Japan was sent to hospital unconscious after an apparent bear attack outside a facility for people with disabilities, police said Friday. More and more wild bears have been spotted in residential areas in Japan in recent years, resulting in a rising number of attacks and deaths.

“A 73-year-old woman was found lying down with head injuries at the facility entrance on Thursday night,” a local police spokesman in the northern Akita region told AFP. Emergency doctors told police they believed it was a bear attack based on the injuries the woman suffered, the spokesman said. Security camera footage outside the facility showed a bear-like animal attacking the woman when she was walking with what appeared to be a garbage bag, he added.

“She was unable to talk due to injuries and was unconscious when sent to hospital.”

Sand, dust storm sweeps across southern Peru

surprise, authorities said.

Peru’s national weather service said wind gusts reached up to 50 kilometers per hour in the Ica region, about 400 kilometers south of Lima. The storm in Ica forced traffic to a halt on highways and disrupted tourism activities for three hours. The effects of the unusual weather event were also felt in the regions of Arequipa, Moquegua, and Tacna -- which borders Chile -- where winds reached up to 32 kilometers an hour. Similarly strong winds were also recorded in the capital Lima, causing some trees to fall.

“This event was caused by the South Pacific anticyclone, which has intensified and is currently very close to the continent, generating high-speed downdrafts at the surface,” Rosario Julca of the national weather service told Canal N television. AFP

Australia spy boss warns of Russia threat

SYDNEY – Australia’s spy chief has singled out Russia as an “aggressive espionage threat,” saying several Moscowlinked intelligence officers have been caught and expelled in recent years.

Intelligence boss Mike Burgess used a speech on Thursday night to warn of the mounting threat posed by foreign actors such as Russia and China.

Burgess said 24 major espionage operations had been dismantled since 2022 -- more than the previous eight years combined.

“A new iteration of great power competition is driving a relentless hunger for strategic advantage and an insatiable appetite for inside information,” he said.

“Russia remains a persistent and aggressive espionage threat,” added Burgess, director-general of the Australian Security Intelligence Organization.

Without providing details, Burgess said a number of Russian spies had been expelled from Australia in recent years. AFP

lift placards and chant slogans during an anti-government protest in Tel Aviv on Thursday, calling for a stop to the war in Gaza, and for the release of Israelis held hostage by Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip since Oct. 2023. The Israeli military said troops had

Yoon resists questioning by lying in underwear

SEOUL – South Korea’s impeached former president Yoon Suk Yeol lay on his prison cell floor in his underwear to resist attempts to interrogate him, prosecutors said Friday.

Prosecutors obtained a fresh arrest warrant on Thursday to forcibly bring the former leader in for questioning over allegations of election tampering.

However, they were “unable to do so due to his strong refusal”, prosecutor Oh Jeong-hee told reporters.

“The suspect refused arrest while lying on the floor without wearing his prisonissued clothing,” she said.

“Due to concerns over safety incidents, physical force was withheld, and the ex-

ecution of the warrant was temporarily suspended.”

Yoon was wearing “a sleeveless top and prison-issued briefs,” prosecutors said, calling it the “most appropriate way” to describe his attire given the “serious nature of the situation”.

There was no information on the color of his underclothing, they added.

Prosecutors informed Yoon they would have to carry out physical force if necessary in the next attempt.

Yoon was arrested after he tried to impose martial law on December 3, sending troops to parliament to prevent lawmakers from voting down his declaration and plunging the country into political turmoil.

He faces a litany of charges, from insurrection to election tampering, but has refused multiple times to appear at his summons. Yoon’s legal team said the prosecutors had shown a “disturbing disregard” for “basic human decency”.

“The special counsel turned what should have been a press briefing into a stage for personal humiliation,” Yoon’s lawyer Yoo Jeong-hwa told AFP.

“What kind of legal institution in a civilized country gives a real-time report and commentary to journalists on a detainee’s clothing, especially in a cramped cell nearing 40 degrees (Celsius) (104 degrees Fahrenheit)?” AFP

ago. AFP

‘There is still hope’: Pilgrims from war zones gather in Rome

VATICAN CITY, Holy See – Khader

Qassis travelled 32 hours from the West Bank, passing military checkpoints across three countries, to join hundreds of thousands of other young Catholics in Rome for a week-long pilgrimage.

While Rome thronged with singing pilgrims, the 20-year-old from Bethlehem said he felt some guilt that he was in the cheerful Italian capital while starvation was spreading in Gaza, which has been besieged by Israel for months.

“It’s hard when there are people in Gaza dreaming just to eat and I’m travelling,” Qassis told AFP.

The Vatican is holding its “Jubilee of Youth” this week, with up to a million 18-to-35 year-olds expected to take part.

The Vatican has singled out pilgrims from conflict zones -- especially Iraq, Lebanon, Syria and Ukraine -- that made major “sacrifices” to get to the Eternal City.

For many living in war-scarred countries, the trip was a chance to experience a breath of normalcy.

“Being here lets us feel that we’re

free,” said Jessie Khair, an 18-year-old Palestinian woman from the West Bank, wearing a black kufiyah scarf.

She was moved by the outpouring of sympathy over Gaza, “far from the borders, checkpoints and anything that could hurt us”.

At the majestic St Peter’s Square, a group of pilgrims waved a Syrian flag.

Father Fadi Syriani was accompanying a group of 11 Syrian youths, many of whom left their country for the first time.

“It is a generation that has grown up in the years of war that started in 2011,” he told AFP, saying that Syrian Christian youths, a tiny minority in the country, felt “isolated” from the rest of the Church.

Many Christians have fled war in Syria, where a recent attack on a Damascus church killed 25 people. In Rome, Syriani said, the youths can “witness that there is still hope.”

The Vatican’s youth event is also unfolding as Moscow pounds Ukraine with more deadly attacks despite Western ultimatums to end its invasion. AFP

JERUSALEM –

President Donald Trump’s envoy met Israeli Prime Minister

Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday ahead of a visit to inspect aid distribution in Gaza, as a deadly food crisis drove mounting international pressure for a ceasefire.

Steve Witkoff, who has been involved in months of stalled negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release deal, met Netanyahu shortly after his arrival, the Israeli leader’s office said.

On Friday, he is to visit Gaza, the White House announced.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that Witkoff, who visited Gaza in January, would inspect “distribution sites and secure a plan to deliver more food and meet with local Gazans to hear firsthand about this dire situation on the ground”. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also met Netanyahu in Jerusalem, and afterwards declared: “The humanitarian disaster in Gaza is beyond imagination.

“Here, the Israeli government must act quickly, safely and effectively to provide humanitarian and medical aid to prevent mass starvation from becoming a reality,” he said.

“I have the impression that this has been understood today.”

In an example of the deadly problems facing aid efforts in Gaza, the territory’s civil defense agency said that at least 58 Palestinians were killed late Wednesday when Israeli forces opened fire on a crowd attempting to block an aid convoy. The armed wing of Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad meanwhile released a video showing German-Israeli hostage Rom Braslavski. In the six-minute video, Braslavski, speaking in Hebrew, is seen watching recent news footage of the crisis in Gaza. He identifies himself and pleads with the Israeli government to secure his release. Braslavski was a security guard at the Nova music festival, one of the sites targeted by Hamas and other Palestinian fighters in the October 2023 attack that sparked the Gaza war.

“They managed to break Rom. Even the strongest person has a breaking point,” his family said in a statement released by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum in Israel. AFP

Russia’s actions in Ukraine ‘disgusting’

fresh sanctions Thursday while slamming Russia’s military actions in Ukraine as “disgusting,” as strikes on Kyiv killed at least 16 people.

“Russia -- I think it’s disgusting what they’re doing. I think it’s disgusting,”

has given Moscow until the end of next week to cease hostilities in Ukraine, under threat of severe economic sanctions.

Trump reiterated the deadline on Thursday.

“We’re going to put sanctions. I don’t know that sanctions bother him,” the US president said, referring to

Trump

TRUMP THREATENS

Esquivel ranks 3rd at US Open of Surfing meet

By Randy M. Caluag

FILIPINO

surfing star Rogelio

“Jay-R” Esquivel Jr. made waves on the global stage once again, clinching a podium with a third-place finish at the Lexus US Open of Surfing, the opening leg of the International Men’s Longboard Tour 2025, held at the iconic Huntington Beach, California.

The 2019 SEA Games gold medalist and seasoned World Surf League (WSL) campaigner displayed grit and world-class form throughout the competition, toppling some of the sport’s top names on his way to a semifinal berth.

Esquivel started strong in the opening round, outdueling Tony Silvagni of the United States and Antonio Dantas of Portugal. He then delivered one of the tournament’s biggest upsets, eliminating Australia’s Max Weston in the Round of 16 before outclassing Hawaii’s Kaniela Stewart in a thrilling quarterfinal showdown.

The pride of San Juan, La Union narrowly missed a finals appearance after falling to three-time world champion Taylor Jensen in the semis. The American posted 13.84 points, edging Esquivel’s 12.77 in a close battle that kept the crowd on their feet.

This marked the second consecutive year that Jensen halted Esquivel’s title hopes at Huntington Beach, following their gold-medal clash at the 2024 Huntington Beach Longboard Classic, where the Filipino settled for silver.

Despite falling short of the crown, Esquivel’s third-place finish cements his reputation as one of Asia’s premier longboarders and a serious contender in the global circuit as the 2025 season unfolds.

PVL On Tour switches to sudden death

Team USA scout joins Filipinas’ coaching staff

By Peter Atencio

FORMER Team USA scout Riccardo Marchioli is coming aboard as the new assistant coach of the Philippine national women’s football team.

Marchioli played a big role in the US national women’s team’s bid to secure an Olympic gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“Riccardo’s analytical expertise and his ability to integrate technology into player development and tactical planning are incredibly valuable. He brings a strategic mind that will push us to think differently and prepare even more thoroughly,” said Filipinas’ coach Mark Torcaso. The Philippine Football Federation

THE stage is set for an explosive twist at the 2025 Reyes Cup, as reigning champions Team Asia will now face a newly formed and formidable opponent: Team Rest of the World.

The global clash takes place October 16–19 at the iconic Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila, Philippines — and will be broadcast live on One Sports and WNT TV, with further broadcast partners to be announced.

FROM a prelims phase filled with reversals and surprise results, the PVL On Tour is set to raise the stakes even higher as it transitions into a do-or-die knockout stage – a stretch expected to deliver more drama, unpredictability and thrilling volleyball action all the way to the finals.

The crossover matchups may initially pit higher-seeded squads against lowerranked opponents, but rankings won’t guarantee results. In this high-pressure phase, where every match is a virtual final, even the winless teams have a shot at redemption – turning each playdate into must-watch volleyball.

Action kicks off today (Saturday), Aug. 2) at the newly-built Dasmariñas Arena in Cavite, with Farm Fresh (No. 3, Pool A) taking on Capital1 (No. 6, Pool B) at 4 p.m., while Chery Tiggo (No. 3, Pool B) squares off with Galeries Tower (No. 6, Pool A) at 6:30 p.m. On paper, the Foxies and Crossovers look poised to dominate, but with the Solar Spikers and Highrisers hungry for a breakthrough, the matches are expected to be closer than the standings suggest.

Capital1, despite a winless run in the prelims, showed flashes of brilliance, with Sydney Niegos, Rovena Instrella, Rachel Austero and Shola Alvarez all putting in strong performances. They now hope to turn those setbacks into a long-awaited breakthrough.

Meanwhile, Farm Fresh, still stinging from a straight-set loss to Nxled in their last prelims outing, looks to bounce back with confidence under Italian coach Alessandro Lodi. Leading the charge are Trisha Tubu, Jolina dela Cruz, Rizza Cruz veteran Rachel Ann Daquis, and rookie playmaker Alohi Robins-Hardy. Chery Tiggo also seeks to regain form after back-to-back losses, including a five-set heartbreaker to ZUS Coffee. But coach Norman Miguel remains confident in his battle-tested roster featuring Cess Robles, Ara Galang, Imee Hernandez, Aby Maraño and Shaya Adorador, alongside dynamic rookies Renee Peñafiel and Jyne Soreño.

For the first time, elite players from across the globe — including Europe, the Americas, Oceania and beyond — will unite under one banner in a mission to dethrone Team Asia, who captured the inaugural Reyes Cup with an emphatic 11–6 win in front of a passionate home crowd.

Team Asia will once again feature the top three ranked Asian players on the World Nineball Tour rankings, alongside two wildcards. Their opponents, Team Rest of the World, will follow the same format — uniting the top three non-Asian players from the WNT rankings with two wildcard picks to complete the squad.

This seismic change sets the stage for thrilling new combinations and unexpected rivalries, with national and continental pride on the line in the ultimate team showdown.

announced Marchioli’s inclusion to the team, days after the final draw of lots and groupings for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup were held in Australia.

The no. 38 Filipinas, who are seeking to be back at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, were bunched with two higher-ranked squads -- host nation and World Cup regular Australia (no. 15) and AFC Cup 2022 runner-up South Korea (21). No. 68 Iran is also in the mix.

Officials of the PFF hope to enhance the Filipinas’ strategic capabilities and bring in a wealth of elite-level experience and a fresh perspective cultivated across diverse highperformance environments.

“We would like to welcome a new and valuable addition to the Filipinas’ coaching staff, Ricca rdo Marchioli. Riccardo’s unique blend of experience – from contrib uting to an Olympic gold medal to his hands-on success in building and transforming football programs – is exactly what we need as we contin ue our ambitious journey,” sais PFF president John Gutierrez. Marchioli was also instrumental in the Newcastle Jets becoming Cham pions in the A-League of Australia.

Team Asia to defend Reyes Cup vs. first-ever Team Rest of the World

Efren Reyes, the tournament’s namesake and icon of Filipino pool, stated: “Let them all team up — Asia is ready. They saw what happened last year, and we’re only getting stronger. Playing in front of our fans gives us

something special, and I believe in our players. Team Rest of the World better come prepared, because Team Asia is not giving up this title.” Jayson Shaw, one of the sport’s most fiery competitors and a vocal rival of

Chasing the dream with DFL

MIXED martial arts in the Philippines has traveled a long and arduous road since the birth of Alvin Aguilar’s Universal Reality Combat Championship in 2002. Back then, the sport was a niche curiosity, often misunderstood and underappreciated. However, over the years, it has evolved into a respected combat sport, producing icons such as Eduard Folayang, Kevin Belingon, and Joshua Pacio — names etched into the annals of history. Yet for every fighter who makes it to the international stage, there are hundreds of others grinding in obscurity — hungry, disciplined, and waiting for their shot. In the southern part of Metro Manila, that shot now has a name: Dream Fight League (DFL).

Founded in March 2023 by Danilo Canete Marquez, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu brown belt under Checkmat, Dream Fight League was born out of necessity and purpose. Aware of the lack of platforms for budding fighters in areas like Parañaque and Cavite, he took it upon himself to fill the void. DFL is not just another local promotion — it’s a movement to breathe life into grassroots MMA in a region often overlooked. The goal is simple but significant: provide athletes with opportunities for growth, exposure, and the chance to eventually pursue MMA as a full-time career. DFL doesn’t just stage events — it builds futures. In its short existence, Dream Fight League has already delivered on that promise. Take the case of EF Sevilla, for instance. He didn’t just become DFL’s inaugural flyweight champion — he went on to claim another belt at 125 pounds under the more prominent Zeus Fight League in 2024. His story is proof of what can happen when talent meets the right opportunity.

The next chapter in the Dream Fight League story will unfold on August 9 at the Villanueva

Team Asia, is among those hoping to earn a place on the Rest of the World roster:

“They had their moment last year – fair play to them. But trust me, this year will be different. Europe, America — whatever flag we wear, we’re going there to win, silence the crowd, and take that trophy. We’ve got the players, and we’ve got a point to prove. I’ll be doing everything I can to make the team, and if I get the call, I’ll be ready to go there, put on a show, and win.” Emily Frazer, CEO of Matchroom Multi Sport, added: “If you thought last year was big — this takes things to the next level. Europe and the Americas joining forces is a bold move, and it shows just how much the Reyes Cup already means. We’re proud to be working with Puyat Sports once again to deliver something truly global, and with the best players in the world on one stage, it’s going to be unmissable.”

Basketball Court in Parañaque City. The card promises a compelling lineup of amateur bouts across multiple disciplines: MMA, no-gi jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, and boxing. More than just a fight night, it’s a celebration of grassroots combat sports and the raw, untapped talent bubbling in the South. Marquez has no plans of slowing down. With two more events on the docket for later this year — one in September and another in December — DFL is building momentum and laying the groundwork for even greater impact.

The passionate head honcho is now actively seeking like-minded partners who share his belief that Filipino fighters deserve the moment to be seen, supported, and celebrated.

“In Dream Fight League, we give a voice to the silent warriors. This is where they will shine,” he said.

The dream lives on, and in the South, it fights harder than ever.

(For comments or questions, reach the author at nissi.icasiano@gmail.com or visit his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/nissi.icasiano.)

A new rivalry is born – The World unites to battle on Team Asia in Manila, October 16 to 19

Riccardo Marchioli

Jay-R Esquivel displays grit and world-class form in the Lexus US Open of Surfing, where he toppled some of the sport’s top names on his way to a semifinal berth.

In The Red Corner Nissi Icasiano

SATURDAY, AUGUST 2, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Subic Bay gears up for IRONMAN ‘26 doubleheader

THE year 2026 promises to be a landmark one in Philippine triathlon history as Century Tuna and Sunrise Events, Inc. renew their partnership to stage not one but two of the country’s most iconic multisport events in Subic Bay – the 10th edition of the IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay and the fifth Century Tuna (full) IRONMAN Philippines.

In a momentous contract signing held recently at Century Pacific Food, Inc.’s headquarters in Pasig, SEI founder Fred Uytengsu and CPFI Executive Vice President and COO

Greg Banzon sealed the renewed alliance, signaling a bold new era for the sport in the country.

This milestone year also aligns with a series of significant anniversaries: Century Tuna’s 40th year, the 20th anniversary of the Century Tuna Superbods, and the highly anticipated return to the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, where the top male and female qualifiers from the Philippine races will earn their coveted slots. With the international triathlon calendar quickly filling up, the 2026 IRONMAN races in Subic Bay –staged in partnership with NLEX and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority – are poised to attract a strong influx of foreign elites and age-groupers eager to compete in one of Southeast Asia’s most scenic and demanding endurance race venues.

Subic Bay’s strategic location, raceproven logistics and vibrant local hospitality continue to make it a favorite among international triathletes.

Registration for both IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay and IRONMAN Philippines kicked off Friday (Aug. 1, 2025) with organizers anticipating a deluge of local and international entries eager to be part of this historic staging.

PH tennis hopeful of Eala stint in Thailand ‘25 SEAG

By Randy Caluag

THE Philippine Tennis Association (Philta) is hopeful that Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala will don the country’s colors in the coming Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand this December.

However, her participation remains uncertain due to a jampacked schedule on the global tennis circuit and a lingering shoulder injury.

Philta Executive Director Tonette Mendoza expressed

optimism about Eala’s potential appearance, saying the 20-yearold star is eager to represent the Philippines if her calendar allows.

“She’s just trying to fit it into her schedule, but she seems very excited. We’re hoping she

47 Filipino athletes vie in Chengdu World Games

FORTY-SEVEN athletes, led by wushu star Agatha Wong, wakeboarding ace Raph Trinidad and billiards sensation Rubilen Amit will represent the Philippines in the 12th World Games in Chengdu set August 7 to 17. The World Games are a competition among sports that are not on the Olympic program and have been staged since 1981 with the Philippines having won two gold, five silver and five bronze medals so far.

“We’re eyeing a significant improvement in these Chengdu World Games from the previous edition in Birmingham,” Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said.

Karate’s Junna Tsukii won the lone medal—a gold—at the pandemic delayed Birmingham games in 2022 while reigning world 9-ball champion Carlo Biado reigned supreme in his pet pool event in Wroclaw (Poland) 2017.

Tolentino also announced that Wong, a two-time world championships silver medalist and five-time Southeast Asian Games winner, and Trinidad, gold winner in the IWWF Asia and Oceania Championships in Pampanga last January, will be the flag bearers during the parade of athletes in the opening ceremony on August 7 at the Tianfu International Convention Center in Chengdu.

“This is going to be the largest delegation in all World Games editions

and I am praying for more medals, especially gold,” Tolentino said. Wong, 27, will be competing in women’s taolu taijiquan bear hands and sword.

“I’m grateful to carry the flag. I feel so really blessed about the opportunity that I got for the first time to compete in the World Games,” said Wong, during a photo shoot program organized by the POC for the Chengdu-bound athletes at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Thursday.

She qualified for the games with her silver medal at the 2023 World Wushu Games in Texas.

Trinidad, on the other hand, said he’s looking forward to his World Games debut.

can make it. Let’s all pray she does,” Mendoza said in a recent interview.

Eala last competed in the SEA Games in 2021, where she brought home three bronze medals.

A return this year would allow her to improve on that haul and possibly secure her first gold for the Philippines in the biennial meet.

However, her participation is complicated by ongoing recovery from a shoulder injury that recently forced her to withdraw from the Cincinnati Open, the final WTA 1000 event before the US Open.

The Women’s Tennis Association

(WTA) confirmed the withdrawal on Thursday, with Mexico’s Renata Zarazua taking her place in the main draw.

The world No. 65 last saw action at the Omnium Banque Nationale in Montreal, where she battled valiantly before bowing out in three sets against 2023 Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova.

Despite the setback, Eala is expected to return later this month at the Monterrey Open as part of her preparation for her highly anticipated women’s singles’ debut at the US Open, which kicks off on August 24.

Alexandra Eala of the Philippines plays a backhand against Marketa Vondrousova of Czechia during their rst round match on Day One of the WTA 1000 National Bank Open at IGA Stadium in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. AFP

World Games-bound athletes attend a photo shoot at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Thursday.

$800 million

Cost of Bauan container terminal

56.2 hectares

Size of new container terminal

18 meters

Depth of offshore area

By Jenniffer B. Austria

METROPOLITAN Bank & Trust Co.

(Metrobank) said Friday its net income grew 5.1 percent to P24.8 billion in the first half of 2025 from a year ago, driven by healthy loan growth, recovering margins, robust trading income and improved cost efficiency.

Pre-provision operating profit rose 16.3 percent year-on-year to P39.1 billion, it said.

“Our first-half performance reflects the continuing strength of our core businesses,” Metrobank president Fabian Dee said in a statement.

“As we enter the second half of the year, we remain focused on building on our fundamentals and implementing prudent strategies, which will allow us to continue helping our clients grow further as well as achieve our medium-term goals,” said Dee.

Net interest income reached P60.0 billion in the first half, supported by sustained growth across business segments and a sequential rebound in net interest margin. Gross loans expanded 13.2 percent year-on-year, with institutional loans growing 12.7 percent on sustained corporate capital expenditures. Consumer loans increased 15.3 percent, led by gross credit card receivables and auto loans, which climbed 18.2 percent and 17.8 percent year-onyear, respectively.

Total deposits amounted to P2.3 trillion, with P1.5 trillion in lowcost current and savings accounts (CASA).

Non-interest income jumped 46.2 percent to P17.6 billion in the first half. Fee income reached P8.6 billion, supported by the expanding consumer business. Combined trading and foreign exchange gains surged to P5.4 billion, driven by strong customer flows and optimization strategies in the bank’s investment portfolio. Operating costs grew at a moderate pace of 5.9 percent yearon-year. As a result, the cost-toincome ratio eased to 50.0 percent from 52.3 percent in the first half of 2024.

ELECTRIFICATION PROGRAM.

Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Ralph Recto chairs a sectoral meeting alongside Energy Secretary Sharon Garin to accelerate the electrification of all Filipino households, particularly those in isolated and underserved areas. This is in line

ICTSI developing $800-m new container terminal

By Darwin G. Amojelar

INTERNATIONAL Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) said Friday it is developing a new international container terminal in Bauan, Batangas.

The project worth $800 million will be the largest privately-funded marine terminal in the Philippines and the country’s second-largest container terminal, trailing only ICTSI’s flagship Manila International Container Terminal (MICT).

The Luzon International Container Terminal (LICT) is about 120 kilometers south of Manila

Batangas City.

Its location ensures easy access to major urban and industrial centers in Southern Luzon, particularly the bustling CALABARZON region (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon).

The connectivity is further enhanced by direct access to welldeveloped road networks, including

Palico-Balayan-Batangas Road and the Bauan-Mabini Road, with additional expressway projects from Cavite to Bauan expected to further improve accessibility.

Design and engineering studies for LICT are underway, with construction scheduled to commence by the third quarter of 2025.

The first berth is targeted for completion by the end of 2027, with full completion expected by 2028. The project encompasses the development and construction of modern port facilities across a 56.21-hectare land area, including an offshore area with depths of up to about 18 meters, essential for accommodating next-generation vessels.

THE World Bank is providing a $700-million loan to strengthen community resilience for 18 million households in the Philippines, the bank said Friday.

The loan, extended through an International Bank for Reconstruction and Development facility, is part of the Philippines Community Resilience Project’s total cost of $874.35 million. The Philippine government will cover the remaining $174.35 million.

The project, also known as “Pagkilos” (action), aims to reduce the vulnerability of about 18 million households to natural disasters through enhanced community-led planning and infrastructure investments.

It will engage communities in

PAG-IBIG Fund on Friday reported a double-digit income growth in the first half of 2025, marking the highest earnings for the period in the agency’s 45-year history. The state-owned housing finance agency said that gross income reached P44.39 billion from January to June, an 11.65-percent increase from the same period last year. Net income grew 15.25 percent to P28.04 billion, also a record high since the agency’s founding in 1980. Officials attributed the growth to robust collections and higher earnings from Pag-IBIG Fund’s housing and short-term loan portfolios.

“This performance shows how

identifying climate and natural hazard risks and developing resilience plans. Prioritized initiatives will receive implementation grants, focusing on resilient community infrastructure and sustainable livelihoods.

“By empowering local communities to take the lead in building resilience against climate change and disaster risks, the Philippines is not only addressing immediate environmental challenges but also fostering a culture of proactive engagement and resilience,” said Zafer Mustafaoğlu, division director for the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei in a statement.

“Communities play a critical role in preparing for and responding to disasters. Their ability to anticipate

excellently we are managing the funds that our members have entrusted to us,” said Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling.

“With our strong fiscal standing, we remain capable of continuing to deliver our members’ benefits and are in a solid position to finance more homes under the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino, or Expanded 4PH Program, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to empower more Filipinos achieve better, more dignified lives,” said Aliling who is also the chairman of the Pag-IBIG Fund board of trustees.

risks, organize themselves, and collaborate with local and national authorities is essential for effective climate change and disaster risk preparedness and recovery efforts,” said Mustafaoğlu.

Resilience investments under Pagkilos may include flood and drought mitigation, landslide and slope protection, surge protection and breakwaters, windbreakers, and retrofitting existing infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events. The project will also support erosion control, agroforestry, and other nature-based solutions for ecosystem conservation, such as community forests, wetlands, marshes and waterways.

PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) said Friday it will begin a strategic transfer of select turboprop-operated domestic routes from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Clark International Airport (CRK) and Mactan Cebu International Airport (CEB) starting Oct. 26, 2025 to comply with government’s mandate to transfer turboprop operations to other airports.

PAL said that as part of the transition, it would expand its flight offerings from both Clark and Cebu. Services between Clark and Busuanga, as well as Clark and Basco, will increase to twice daily, while Clark–Siargao flights will continue to operate daily. The Clark-Basco operations will replace the Manila-Basco route. From Cebu, flights to Busuanga and Siargao will be increased to three times daily. PAL said it would also launch a new route from Cebu to Calbayog, with flights operating four times weekly. The Cebu–Calbayog service will replace the Manila-Calbayog flights. Passengers flying out of Manila can still opt to connect via Cebu to Calbayog. Turboprop PAL flights from Manila to the key holiday destinations of Siargao and Busuanga (Coron) will continue, but with reduced frequencies. Darwin G. Amojelar

Local stocks rebound as investors hunt for bargains

FOR the first time this week, the local stock barometer closed higher Friday as investors sought bargains after several days of declines.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index climbed 53.40 points, or 0.85 percent, snapping a six-day losing streak, to close at 6,306.13. The broader all shares index advanced 14.76 points, or 0.40 percent, to 3,751.67.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp.

chief economist Michael Ricafort

noted that investors also welcomed positive signals from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, indicating its readiness to intervene in the foreign exchange market amid the peso’s recent weakening against the dollar. As a result, the peso strengthened against the dollar, closing at 58.145:$1 on Friday, compared to Thursday’s close of 58.63:$1.

Among the sectoral indices, only the mining and oil index ended lower, declining 0.40 percent. Holding firms posted the biggest gain, increasing by 1.38 percent, followed by the industrial sector, which rose 1.12 percent.

Value turnover stood at P5.84 billion. However, foreign investors became net sellers, with outflows reaching P54.30 million.

JG Summit Holdings Inc. was the top gainer for the day, advancing 5.24 percent to P22.10. Converge ICT Solutions Inc. was at the bottom, falling 4.36 percent to P17.10.

Jenniffer B. Austria

EDC switches on Tanawon geothermal plant in Sorsogon

By Alena Mae S. Flores

SORSOGON CITY—Energy Development Corp (EDC), a unit of Lopez-led First Gen Corp, on Friday switched on its P7-billion, 22-megawatt (MW) Tanawon Geothermal Power Plant.

The inauguration marks a significant step in the Philippines’ clean energy transition and underscores the company’s commitment to energy security and climate resilience.

The Tanawon project, situated within the Bacon-Manito (Bac-Man)

geothermal facility in the Bicol region, highlights EDC’s dedication and technical expertise in harnessing the country’s abundant indigenous geothermal resources.

It said the initiative aligns with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Na-

tional Renewable Energy Program (NREP) 2020-2040. Geothermal energy is a cornerstone of the NREP, which aims to elevate renewables’ share in the national energy mix to 50 percent by 2040.

“Tanawon’s inauguration is not only a proud achievement for First Gen and EDC but also a win for the country’s energy security and climate resilience journey,” said EDC president and chief operating officer Jerome Cainglet.

“We dedicate it to our communities, government partners, and everyone committed to a decarbonized,

regenerative future,” he said.

The project’s swift 27-month completion demonstrates how strong collaboration between First Gen-EDC and its key contractors, First Balfour and Toshiba, coupled with robust government support, can accelerate the deployment of clean energy solutions.

The geothermal facility is projected to generate 159,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) annually, contributing to the country’s baseload renewable energy capacity and helping to avoid approximately 38,312 tons of CO2 emissions each year.

Discovery Group sets PH benchmarks through award-winning hotels

By Roderick T. dela Cruz

BEFORE major Philippine developers launched their own hotel brands, a homegrown group has carved out a prestigious niche in the highlycompetitive hospitality sector over the past 25 years. It achieved this through award-winning hotels and resorts in some of the country’s most distinctive locations. Discovery Hotels Corp. not only caught up with international chains, but also set benchmarks for accommodation in the Philippines, starting with its Pasig City property in 2000.

The company operates Discovery Suites in Ortigas, Discovery Primea in Makati, Discovery Shores Boracay, Club Paradise Palawan in Coron, Discovery Samal in Davao, Manami Resort in Sipalay, Negros Occidental and Kip&Kin, a new brand catering to a younger generation, with a groundbreaking property in Siargao. Blessy Townes, vice president and head of digital marketing and branding at Discovery Hospitality, said the group became known for “Service That’s All Heart.”

“It came naturally to us. It wasn’t

crafted in a boardroom. It was born from how guests have felt, seen, cared for and remembered. That emotional connection has always been the heart of our story,” Townes said.

“Ultimately, our standard is not just meeting expectations. It’s exceeding them in ways that feel personal and deeply Filipino,” she said.

“Prestige in hospitality isn’t just built through accolades; it’s built through consistency, emotional resonance and brand trust. Our brands— like Discovery Resorts, Discovery Primea, and Discovery Suites—have

BALIK

ESKWELA. Jay

Bosi, an engineer from Globe Telecom, inspects classrooms at the Pedro N. Roa Sr. Elementary School in Cagayan de Oro City. Through the Brigadang Ayala Balik Eskwela program, the Ayala Group brought high skills volunteerism to 46 schools in several provinces across the country, supporting the Department of Education’s Balik Eskwela initiative beyond traditional school cleaning and repairs. Over 860 employee volunteers lent their professional skills to the program.

Ayala unit completes sale of Czech facility to Keboda

AYALA-LED Integrated Micro-Electronics Inc. (IMI) announced Friday it has completed the sale of its 100 percent equity interest in its Czech Republic-based manufacturing facility for €10.025 million. The sale aligns with the company’s strategy to streamline its global manufacturing footprint and improve operational efficiency.

In a disclosure to the stock exchange, IMI stated it sold Integrated Micro-Electronics Czech Republic s.r.o. to Keboda Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG, a subsidiary of China-based Keboda Technology Co. Ltd.

“This strategic divestment is in line with IMI’s ongoing efforts to streamline its global manufacturing footprint,” the company said in a statement. “With this transaction, IMI is better equipped to enhance operational efficiency, increase facility utilization, and drive overall profitability in the region.”

Keboda is a publicly listed company in China and a provider of system solutions for automotive intelligent and energy-efficient electronic components. IMI noted that high-value customers previously managed by the

Czech facility have been transitioned to IMI’s sites in Bulgaria and Serbia.

Meanwhile, IMI also reported a net income of $7.6 million for the first half of the year, a significant turnaround from an $8.8 million loss in the same period last year.

Group revenues reached $497 million, with $446 million coming from core revenues. The turnaround was primarily driven by operational efficiency measures and cost controls.

“Our first-half results reflect strong progress toward our group EBITDA margin target, with our core business already delivering a 7.2 percent margin,” said Louis Hughes, IMI chief executive. “Despite ongoing market softness, we are collaborating closely with customers to optimize material costs and drive profitability. Our focus on operational efficiency remains firm.”

IMI is a leading global electronics manufacturing solutions

become benchmarks in their categories because of how guests feel when they’re there,” Townes said. The group’s philosophy is to “automate the friction, but personalize the feeling,” Townes said.

“We were the first hotel group in the Philippines to launch chatbot live chat in 2018, providing realtime support while still sounding human and generating brand love. We were first to explore the metaverse with ‘Bogart & Friends’ on Roblox in 2022, opening up Discovery to Gen Alpha in a playful, creative way,” she added.

BPI aims to surpass

BANK of the Philippine Islands (BPI) hopes to exceed its P62 billion net income from 2024, focusing on expanding its customer base as interest rates decline.

“I’d be disappointed if we didn’t exceed it,” BPI President and CEO Jose Teodoro Limcaoco said Friday during a press briefing.

Limcaoco anticipates loan growth will maintain its double-digit pace in the second half of the year, driven by robust consumer lending.

In the first half of this year, BPI’s customer loans grew 26.9 percent, while corporate loans increased by 9.4 percent.

Most banks have reported slower profit growth for the first half of the year following record earnings last year, a trend attributed to decreasing interest rates.

“The growth rate in earnings is slowing down, and that is because rates are coming off,” Limcaoco explained.

“With rates coming off, we have to compensate for net interest margins (NIMs); you’ve got to broaden your market. And that takes time to pay off.”

“For us, we were able to get a lift because we have been able to widen NIMs despite rates coming off because we’ve broadened our market,” he said.

BPI reported a P33 billion net income for the first half of the year, a 7.8 percent increase from P30.6 billion during the same period in 2024. Limcaoco also announced that BPI is expanding its regional presence by opening a new investment and wealth management office in Singapore. Jenniffer B. Austria

First major floating solar project opens

CARMEN Copper Corp. said Friday it has successfully commissioned a 3-hectare floating solar power facility on the Malubog Reservoir within its copper mine site in Cebu. The company stated this marks the Philippines’ first operating megawatt-scale floating photovoltaic (PV) installation.

The facility, designed and built by Black & Veatch, a global human critical infrastructure leader, incorporates 8,540 solar panels. These panels are capable of generating up to 4.99 megawatts (MW) of clean energy, which will fulfill 10 percent of the copper mine’s power requirements.

The floating solar array has a scalable capacity of up to 50 MW, which could eventually power Carmen Copper’s entire mining operation with renewable energy.

The project includes a prefabricated substation and a 6-kilometer overhead distribution line that connects to Carmen Copper’s existing 34.5-kilovolt (kV) substation. The company reported that

the project was completed in 15 months, on time and within budget, with over 250,000 man-hours logged without any lost-time injuries.

Axel Tumulak, Carmen Copper head of legal, compliance and corporate governance, said thje initiative reflects Carmen Copper’s commitment to responsible mining and environmental stewardship, while aligning with the Department of Energy’s target to have renewable energy account for at least half of the country’s total power capacity by 2040.

Carmen Copper is a whollyowned subsidiary of Atlas Consolidated Mining and Development Corp.

DPWH to start building 2nd San Juanico Bridge by 2028

By Darwin G.Amojelar

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said Friday it expects construction on the Second San Juanico Bridge (SSJB) to begin by 2028.

The new bridge is crucial for the full rehabilitation of the existing San Juanico Bridge, which is undergoing emergency repairs due to its deteriorating condition.

On July 25, the DPWH and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) concluded a meeting for an

ongoing fact-finding mission on the SSJB Project. The meeting wrapped up JICA’s fact-finding activities and set the stage for finalizing the project’s Feasibility Study.

DPWH Senior Undersecretary Sadain said the final report is expected by September 2025, a significant step for the high-priority infrastructure initiative under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration.

Once the JICA study ream submits the updated interim technical report and economic analysis worksheets,

DA to recommend distribution of confiscated mackerel to flood victims

By Othel V. Campos

AGRICULTURE Secretary Francis-

co Tiu Laurel Jr. announced he will recommend to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. the distribution of frozen mackerel recently confiscated by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) at the ports of Manila and Subic.

Laboratory tests conducted by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) confirmed the fish are safe for human consumption, having passed screening for histamine

Customs collection climbed 6.4% to surpass July target

BUREAU of Customs (BOC) said Friday its revenue collection grew 6.4 percent to P85.46 billion in July 2025 from P80.36 billion a year ago.

It said in a statement the collection also topped its revenue target for the month by P1.094 billion, or 1.3 percent.

Preliminary data showed the BOC’s collection also increased from P77.035 billion in June.

It said it achieved the figure despite a 4.5-day suspension of operations due to severe weather, which disrupted port activities and customs processing nationwide.

Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the achievement shows the power of good governance. He said the agency would continue to deliver results that benefit the Filipino people and support the President’s vision for nationbuilding.

The latest figure brought the agency’s collection in the first seven months to P544.230 billion.

The BOC attributed its strong July performance to the efforts of its 17 collection districts and key revenue streams.

These included collections from unpaid post-entry modifications, P3.103 billion from government importations under the Tax Expenditure Fund (TEF) and P136.94 million from the Post-Clearance Audit Group (PCAG).

and microbiological contaminants.

Tiu Laurel said he would ask the BOC to turn over the seized goods to the Department of Agriculture (DA) for distribution through agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development or the Office of the President.

“When President Marcos led the distribution of frozen fish last December, thousands of vulnerable Filipinos received an unexpected gift. Today, the need is far more urgent. Millions have been displaced

by recent floods. This may be a small gesture, but it can offer meaningful relief to many families,” he said Friday.

A total of seven container vans — two from Manila’s North Harbor and five from the Subic Freeport — were seized after the shipments were flagged by the DA’s Inspectorate and Enforcement Office in coordination with the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI).

Each container holds roughly 30 metric tons of frozen mackerel,

bringing the total to 210 metric tons, enough to provide one kilo of fish to 210,000 households.

Tiu Laurel added that more container vans suspected of containing smuggled fish are awaiting inspection and testing. Most of the seized shipments also contained onions.

While tests showed no bacterial, pesticide, or heavy metal contamination, the BPI recommended destroying the onions due to visible spoilage.

PH ranks higher in Fraser Institute mining survey as reforms pay off –COMP

THE Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) is welcomes the country’s significant gains in the Fraser Institute’s 2024 Annual Survey of Mining Companies. The Philippines ranked 16th out of 82 jurisdictions in investment attractiveness and 25th in policy perception.

“This remarkable improvement in our investment attractiveness ranking shows that steady reforms under the Marcos administration are paying off, especially in creating greater policy stability and making it easier to do business for responsible miners,” COMP said in a statement.

The country also placed 9th out of 58 highly endowed jurisdictions in Best Practices Mineral Potential, acknowledging its rich mineral resources. These rankings represent a signifi-

cant leap from 2023, when the Philippines stood at 72nd in Investment Attractiveness, 79th in Policy Perception and 41st in Mineral Potential.

Miners noted that the Philippine government has delivered a consistent message that responsible mining is not only welcome but essential for rural development and the clean energy transition.

The group anticipates that the passage of the Mining Fiscal Regime Bill is expected to further strengthen the country’s reputation as a reliable and predictable destination for long-term mineral investments. COMP has also renewed its commitment to responsible resource development through its “Towards Sustainable Mining” initiative and continues to support further policy reforms to unlock the sector’s full potential. Othel V. Campos

SLEX INTERCHANGE INAUGURATION. National and local leaders in San Pedro City, Laguna join the ceremonial inauguration of the long-awaited South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) Northbound Entry and Exit Interchange on Aug. 1. Among those present were Laguna 1st District Rep. Ann Matibag, Santa Rosa Mayor Arlene Arcillas, Laguna Governor Sol Aragones, former San Pedro City Mayor baby Cataquiz, DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon, TRB representative Arthur Tugade, and San Miguel Corp. VP for Finance Godofredo Antonio, and Barangay San Antonio chairman Jun Ynion. Roy Tomandao

the DPWH will coordinate with the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) for Investment Coordination Committee (ICC) processing. The DPWH also asked JICA to submit draft terms of reference (TOR) by August 2025. This will allow for internal review by the Bureau of Construction (BOC), Bureau of Design (BOD), Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) and Planning and Procurement Services before the JICA preappraisal mission in September 2025.

PEZA ramps up efforts to woo Japanese firms

TO help reverse a sharp drop in Japanese investments within Philippine economic zones, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) recently conducted a high-level investment mission to four key Japanese cities: Hamamatsu, Osaka, Nagoya and Tokyo. This marked PEZA’s third mission to Japan this year, aimed at encouraging more Japanese firms to locate in the country’s economic zones and reinforcing Japan’s traditional role as PEZA’s top investor.

PEZA director general Tereso Panga stated the mission was part of PEZA’s proactive strategy to re-engage Japanese investors and promote the Philippines as a competitive manufacturing and services hub in Asia.

“We are determined to bring Japan back to the top spot by showcasing the country’s improved investment climate, generous fiscal incentives under CREATE MORE, and our proven track record as a reliable business partner,” Panga said.

From January to July 2025, Japanese investments in PEZA-registered ecozones reached only P2.16 billion, a 72.87 percent decrease compared to the same period last year. Japan is now trailing behind South Korea (P10.76 billion), the U.S. (P3.24 billion), and China (P2.62 billion) in PEZA-registered investments.

PEZA partnered with Science Park of the Philippines, Inc. (SPPI), a leading ecozone developer, to conduct investment seminars in Osaka, Nagoya, and Tokyo. These seminars were held in collaboration with the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Osaka, Nagoya, and Tokyo Chambers, JETRO, and Sojitz Corporation, bringing together over a hundred Japanese business representatives.

Othel V. Campos

A 3-hectare floating solar power facility on the Malubog Reservoir within Carmen Copper Corp.’s mine site opens in Toledo City, marking the Philippines’ first operating megawatt-scale floating photovoltaic (PV) installation.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 2, 2025

extrastory2000@gmail.com

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ,

ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

NGCP places Mindanao, Visayas under yellow alert

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) declared a yellow alert for the Visayas and Mindanao grids on Friday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., citing thin power reserves due to plant outages.

A yellow alert signifies that the operating margin is insufficient to meet the transmission grid’s contingency requirement, NGCP said.

It said that on the Visayas, available capacity on Friday was 2,569 megawatts (MW) against a peak demand of 2,449 MW. Ten plants were on forced outage from April to July, with six other power plants remaining offline since 2024. Four additional plants are running at reduced

capacities, making a total of 423 MW unavailable to the grid.

Meanwhile, Mindanao’s available capacity reached 2,827 MW compared to a peak demand of 2,667 MW. Eleven power plants were on forced outage from June to July, and two remain out since 2024. Three plants are operating at reduced capacities, resulting in 638.3 MW unavailable to the Mindanao grid.

NGCP also attributed the yellow alerts in both grids to high system demand. The Luzon grid, however, was under normal condition.

The Department of Energy (DOE) earlier assured the public of sufficient power supply for the remaining months of the year.

EastWest’s profit climbed 19% in first half

By Jenniffer B. Austria

EAST West Banking Corp., the financial arm of the Gotianun group, said Friday its net income grew 19 percent in the first half of 2025 to P4.1 billion from a year ago on the back of strong core revenue generation.

The bank said its return on equity stood at 11.1 percent.

Revenues rose 17 percent yearon-year to P23.8 billion, fueled by a 15-percent growth in net interest income to P19.2 billion. The increase was led by the con-

sumer lending segment, which expanded by 15 percent and accounted for 84 percent of the bank’s total loan portfolio. Fee income also grew by 29 percent to P3.5 billion. Operating expense increased 9 percent to P12.7 billion due to invest-

Mitsubishi, Security Bank form joint venture on auto financing

By Othel V. Campos

MITSUBISHI Motors Philippines

Corp. (MMPC) and Security Bank

Corp. formed a new joint venture, Mitsubishi Motors Finance Philippines Inc. which will serve as a strategic buffer against potential trade disruptions and market distortions stemming from evolving global tariff regimes.

The joint venture, launched on Friday, seeks to strengthen vehicle financing capabilities by offering more flexible and accessible auto loan options to Filipino consumers.

Both companies said the move would help cushion the impact of external shocks such as shifting import duties and trade policies.

“In any environment of uncertainty, including changes in tariffs, what matters to customers is how much they pay each month,” Security Bank president

and chief executive Sanjiv Vohra said in a press briefing during the launch.

“Since 70 percent of vehicles in the Philippines are financed, this JV allows us to respond quickly through customized financing packages that absorb part of the volatility,” he said.

Vohra said the partnership enables the manufacturer and financier to work in sync, adjusting to pricing or policy shifts without passing the full burden on to consumers.

“It gives us the agility to maintain demand, even when macroeconomic or trade-related factors come into play,” he said.

MMPC president and chief executive Satoshi Nakano said the zeropercent tariff recently announced for car imports between the US and the Philippines is still under review, with little immediate effect expected on the domestic market.

ments in manpower and business expansion.

EastWest said it improved its costto-income ratio by 380 basis points to 53.2 percent.

“Our core consumer banking businesses are performing well, growing in line with the needs of our customers. Our funding initiatives are likewise supporting our funding structure and growth plans. These are key components of our performance that have led to our steady core income improvement, which combined with operational efficiencies pushed our profitability,” said EastWest chief executive Jerry Ngo.

Total assets grew by 8 percent to P537.6 billion, supported by an 11-percent increase in deposits to P412.6 billion. The bank said it maintained a strong CASA ratio of 79 percent. Capital ratios also remained healthy, with a capital adequacy ratio of 13.4 percent and CET1 ratio of 12.6 percent, both above regulatory requirements.

EastWest is a subsidiary of Filinvest Development Corp. (FDC), one of the country’s leading conglomerates with a diverse range of interests including real estate, banking, hospitality and tourism, infrastructure power generation and sugar.

ICTSI bags 30-year contract to develop, operate Indonesian container terminal

By Darwin G. Amojelar

INTERNATIONAL Container

Terminal Services Inc. said Friday it secured a 30-year contract to develop and operate the Batu Ampar Container Terminal in Batam, Indonesia. PT Batam Terminal Petikamas (BTP), a subsidiary of an Indonesian state-owned entity (SOE), formed to develop terminal facilities and infrastructure in Batam Island, signed an agreement with PT Batu Ampar Container Terminal, a 75/25 percent joint venture between ICTSI and PT Interport Sarana Infrastruktur Indonesia, as the 30-year strategic partner to operate and develop its flagship Batu Ampar Container

Terminal (BACT).

BACT is the main container terminal for Batam Island, a prominent special economic zone in Southeast Asia strategically located along the Malacca Strait.

BACT has 1,032 meters of operational quay length, five ship-toshore cranes and a fully developed backup area. In 2024, the local

market exceeded 600,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).

ICTSI’s joint venture partner, PT Interport Sarana Infrastruktur Indonesia, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of PT Indika Energy TBK, a leading Indonesian business engaged in energy, logistics and infrastructure, minerals, green business and digital ventures.

RCBC’s income up 20% in first semester RIZAL Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC)

By Thony Rose Lesaca

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Friday it is enhancing its economic surveillance tools to improve the validity of information for policy recommendations and enable earlier warnings of potential scenarios.

BSP Deputy Governor Zeno Abenoja said these improvements are focused on three areas to boost the central bank’s real-time monitoring capabilities.

He said the BSP is incorporating “soft data” into its monitoring, surveillance and assessment, moving beyond purely traditional data.

“A lot of the traditional data that we use are very useful. It has the benefit that they have good coverage, [are] systematically connected, [and have]

long time series. But we can improve them or supplement them with soft data,” Abenoja said. He noted that soft data are more current, can contain forward-looking elements and offer granular details to better understand “hard” data in realtime.

The bank is also leveraging advancements in technology and economic literature, along with data sciences. This provides the BSP with increased computing power crucial for its operations.

“There is more information available on the internet. And we have the capability now of big data, data analytics, to gather all this information and make them more understandable and easier to digest, to guide policies,” Abenoja said.

Think Huawei can’t run Google apps? You’re wrong—here’s proof

ALOT of Filipinos hesitate when considering a Huawei phone—not because of the design or specs, but because they’re unsure about one thing: the apps. Questions like “Can I still use Gmail?” or “What about YouTube?” often come up, especially since many of our daily tasks—whether for work, school, or just staying in touch—depend on Google.

But the truth is, getting your favorite Google apps on a Huawei device is not only possible—it’s actually easy. Thanks to Huawei AppGallery, the brand’s official app store, users can safely download essential apps for communication, banking, entertainment, and productivity.

Whether you’re booking a ride, paying bills, watching K-dramas, or joining your kid’s online class, everything’s just a few taps away.

What’s the real deal with AppGallery?

AppGallery is Huawei’s global app distribution platform—and yes, it’s already the third-largest app store in the world. It’s designed to work seamlessly across Huawei phones and tablets, offering both international and local apps that fit the everyday needs of Pinoy users.

Security is a big deal, especially when handling payments or logging into personal accounts. AppGallery has a four-layer security system, real-name developer verification, and local data protection policies to make sure your information stays safe and private.

You also get extras like Huawei Points and giveaways from the Gift Center—simple perks that make the experience more rewarding.

Yes, your favorite apps are here

Using the Huawei Mate X6, I was able to install most of the apps Filipinos use every day—Google apps included.

You’ve got the basics covered— Gmail, YouTube, Google, Google Drive, Google Meet, and Google Classroom—all working smoothly. Social apps like Facebook, Messenger, Telegram, and Snapchat are ready to go. For e-wallets and banking, GCash, Maya, BDO, UnionBank, and BPI are all there. Need to book a ride or make deliveries? Apps like Angkas, Grab, and Lalamove are easily available. For government services, the eGov PH Super App, Pag-IBIG Fund app, and SSS Mobile are all accessible. If you’re managing flights, Cebu Pacific and AirAsia apps are also on AppGallery.

Hungry? Foodpanda has you covered. For internet and load

management, telco apps like GlobeOne and Smart GigaLife are also supported.

Online shopping? Shopee and Lazada are just a search away. Entertainment apps like TikTok, Viu, and even Netflix work well too—perfect whether you’re binge-watching or unwinding after a long day. Need to attend a Zoom call or edit documents on the go? Apps like WPS Office and Zoom are also supported. And if something isn’t available yet, just add it to your AppGallery

Wishlist, and Huawei will work on getting it onboard.

Step-by-step: how to download the apps you need

Installing everyday apps on a Huawei device is easier than you might think. To show how simple it really is, here’s a quick walkthrough of how I installed—GCash, YouTube, and Netflix—using AppGallery on the Huawei Mate X6. GCash

Step 1. Open the Huawei AppGallery. Then, type “GCash” in

THE all-new nubia Music Pro is rolling out to more online platforms and retail stores across the Philippines starting this 8.8. More than just a phone, the nubia Music Pro is made for creators and music lovers who want to live loud and express themselves boldly. Whether you’re recording a song cover, putting together your latest TikTok dance, or going live with your barkada, this phone keeps pace with your creative vibe every step of the way.

600% Volume Boost That Hits Different

The real showstopper? A crazy 600% volume boost that cranks sound up to 95dB, thanks to its powerful 2.1-channel audio system with dual stereo speakers and DTS:X Ultra surround sound. Plus, with head-tracked spatial audio, the music moves with you, making every jam session or chill moment feel way more immersive and alive. And when you want to get the party started anywhere, Bluetooth Loudspeaker Mode and FM playback without internet turn any spot into your own personal studio or stage.

Capture, Create, and Share Like a Pro

On the screen, a bright 6.7-inch HD+ display with a silky-smooth

120Hz refresh rate makes watching and editing your content a breeze. The 50MP AI rear camera and 5MP front cam come with handy features like Magic Eraser and Sky Edit, making it easier to capture and enhance your best moments right from your phone. Under the hood, the device runs on 8GB dynamic RAM and 128GB storage, providing the speed and space for apps, files, and videos. Its 5000mAh battery will keep you going from early-morning shoots to late-night edits.

Pop-Modern Design

That Moves with You Style is just as important as function, and the nubia Music Pro delivers with its pop-modern aesthetic. Inspired by vintage vinyl turntables, the design makes a statement with bold colors like Pop Art and Melody Wave. Its Live Island 2.0 offers interactive notifications and controls, while the AI Melody Breathing Light pulses to your music, making the phone not just a device, but an extension of your vibe.

Netflix

Step 1. Search for “GBox” in the AppGallery and install it.

Step 2. Once installed, open the GBox app. A window will appear, click ‘Agree’ once you’ve finished reading the ‘User Agreement’ and ‘Privacy Policy.’

Step 3. After that, you’ll be redirected to GBox’s home page. Hover to the ‘Installed Apps’ section where Google Play is located, then click it.

Step 4. After that, a prompt will appear. Click ‘Allow’ to proceed.

Step 5. The Google Sign-In page will pop-up after. Log in with your details.

Step 6. After logging in, search for the Netflix app

Step 7. Install the app and start streaming.

Once Gbox is set up, the apps work like they normally do. You won’t need to go through the steps again unless you reset your device.

Works seamlessly with Huawei’s latest devices AppGallery is fully optimized for the Huawei Mate X6, and based on my experience, the app downloads, updates, and overall performance were smooth and reliable. This optimized experience is also available on other Huawei devices running HarmonyOS 4, EMUI 14, or later, including the Huawei Pura 70 Series and the latest HUAWEI MatePad lineup—such as the MatePad Air Series, MatePad Pro 12.2” and 13.2”, MatePad 11.5” S, and MatePad SE 11.

To enjoy the best performance and app compatibility, just make sure your device is updated to the latest software version. And if you ever need help setting things up or run into any issues, Huawei’s customer support is easy to reach— you can call 0923-0990468 or message them directly on Facebook at facebook.com/HuaweimobilePH.

the search bar.

Step 2. Tap Install, wait for the download and installation to finish, and open the app.

YouTube

Step 1. Search for “YouTube” in AppGallery.

Step 2. Tap Install. A pop-up will mention MicroG (needed for the app to work properly).

Step 3. Just tap Install, then wait for the download and installation to finish.

Open YouTube and sign in—easy.

Step 4. Start watching videos!

Unlock Exclusive 8.8 Deals

Packed with premium features at a highly accessible price, the nubia Music Pro is available for only Php 4,299 SRP. If you seek to enjoy exclusive discounts and freebies, follow nubia Philippine’s TikTok Shop, check out nubia official stores online on Shopee, Lazada, and participating retail stores nationwide this August 8. Before its wider release, the nubia Music Pro will be available exclusively on TikTok from August 2 to 7. Don’t miss the Brand Days from August 2 to 4, where fans and online shoppers can enjoy exclusive deals, exciting promos, and fun freebies. The #MakeItLouder TikTok Dance Challenge is Still Going! Running until August 28, the #MakeItLouder TikTok Dance Challenge invites creators nationwide to showcase their moves and personality. Using the official #MakeItLouder sound, participants can join

No compromises, just convenience Using a Huawei phone in the Philippines doesn’t mean giving up on the apps you love. In fact, you’ll probably find yourself using the same tools you’ve always used— just downloaded in a slightly different way.

AppGallery makes the transition smooth and secure, whether you’re chatting with family, paying your bills, attending online meetings, or watching your favorite shows. So if you’re already using a Huawei device like the Mate X6—or just thinking about making the switch— you’ve got everything you need right at your fingertips.

OPPO Reno14 Series 5G launches on August 8

IN a world where every moment is content, the all-new OPPO Reno14 Series 5G is designed to help you capture life as it happens - with clarity, creativity, and the power of AI.

Officially launching in the Philippines on August 8, the OPPO Reno14 Series 5G invites you to transform everyday moments into unforgettable stories.

Low Light, High Impact Nightlife is full of stories and, now, you can capture them beautifully. The OPPO Reno14 Series 5G features an UltraClear Low-Light Camera System that transforms nighttime portraits and live photos into crisp, vivid moments.

The OPPO Reno14 Pro 5G and OPPO Reno14 5G are equipped with an all-new Triple Flash System that delivers a soft, natural glow even in the darkest settings, while the OPPO Reno14 F 5G features dual flash for radiant, closerange illumination. Flash Mode intelligently blends preflash and main flash to create a 3D-like depth effect, while Fill Light mode ensures a balanced finish in every frame.

AI That Elevates Every Shot

Great content doesn’t just happen—it’s crafted. With the OPPO Reno14 Series 5G, your phone becomes your AI-powered creative partner.

Introducing AI Perfect Shot, which automatically fixes closed eyes, awkward smiles, and stray hairs, and AI Recompose, which reframes your photo for optimal composition and visual balance. These new AI imaging tools turn every snap into a polished, share-worthy masterpiece with just one tap.

Go Deeper. Get Sharper. Shoot in 4K.

Ready to take your content underwater? The OPPO Reno14 Series 5G delivers immersive 4K underwater videography with clarity and depth. With IP66, IP68, and IP69 ratings, this is the most water-ready Reno yet, allowing you to capture dives, splashes, and freshwater adventures up to two meters deep for 30 minutes.

From golden-hour cityscapes to action-packed street scenes, the OPPO Reno14 Series 5G ensures cinematicquality video in any setting.

Zoom In. Stand Out.

For those who live in the details, the OPPO Reno14 Pro and OPPO Reno14 5G are equipped with a 50MP periscope telephoto camera (80mm focal length) for crisp 3.5x optical zoom.

Whether you’re front row at a concert or capturing intimate portraits, you’ll get high-quality, professional-level results every time.

Next-Level Performance, Backed by AI

The OPPO Reno14 Series 5G delivers effortless multitasking, editing, streaming, and gaming.

● OPPO Reno14 Pro 5G: MediaTek Dimensity 8450

● OPPO Reno14 5G: MediaTek Dimensity 8350

● OPPO Reno14 F 5G: Qualcomm Snapdragon® 6 Gen 1

AI HyperBoost 2.0 ensures ultra-smooth gameplay, while AI LinkBoost 3.0 keeps your connection stable and responsive even in crowded areas or while on the move.

Your AI Portrait Expert is Here

Pre-order now and be among the first to own a device that makes every shot, every moment, and every story count.

Pre-order Perks (Until August 21):

● ₱1,000 off upon claiming your reserved unit

● Free OPPO Enco Buds 2 (worth ₱1,799)

● Free Casio Watch for the first 500 Reno14 Pro 5G users

● 1-Year Dual Protection (Water & Screen Damage) worth ₱2,999

Bundle Deals (Until September 21):

● ₱2,000 off when bundled with the OPPO Pad SE

● ₱1,000 off when bundled with the OPPO Watch X2 Mini

Make Your Moment. Own the OPPO Reno14 Series 5G. Available nationwide starting August 8.

To know more about the OPPO Reno14 Series 5G, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

NGA 911 PH now certified by global standards’ body

NGA 911 Philippines, the local subsidiary of Next Generation Advanced 911 (NGA 911) of California and a global innovator in the field of emergency response, is now a member of the National Emergency Number Association (NENA).

NENA is a global non-profit organization that ensures emergency services in the United States, Canada and other parts of the world conform to strict global standards in their operations. NENA collaborates with the European Emergency Number Association (EENA) on the European side so together the two agencies can ensure that emergency response systems worldwide are efficient, reliable, and capable of providing timely assistance to those in need.

Recently, NGA 911 LLC in the US and NGA 911 Philippines participated in the NENA 2025 Long Beach Conference Program that showcased how Next Generation 911 technology can transform public safety and emergency response and also became a NENA member.

Public safety professionals and agencies from around the world explored innovations in emergency communication at the conference where the transformation of Logan County’s 911’s dispatch center into a next-generation emergency response hub was a key highlight. The adoption of advanced systems such as Next Generation 911 (NG911), real-time mapping and GPS tracking, and seamless communication platforms revolutionized how the county’s public safety hub performed was demonstrated. These technologies enable faster, clearer, and more coordi-

A NGA 911 Philippines representatives visited the City of Pomona Emergency Command Center and met with Dispatch Manager Carmen Greenwood to observe their operation and discuss how NGA 911 PH can improve its services to the di erent

nated responses between dispatchers and first responders. NGA 911 Philippines has been responsible for upgrading the public safety systems of various LGUs and institutions in the Philippines to guarantee immediate and accurate response to emergency calls in the National Capital Region and other parts of the country. LGUs already served by NGA 911 Philippines like Morong, Rizal; Alaminos City, Pangasinan; Cebu City, Cagayan De Oro City, Municipality of Mambajao in Camiguin Island, and Bustos, Bulacan have reported on how their emergency response capabilities have been revolutionized by the NGA 911 technology. NGA 911 uses cutting-edge tech-

HONOR 400 Pro 5G powers in at GMA Gala

LEADING global technology brand HONOR Philippines officially announced the arrival of the highly anticipated HONOR 400 Pro 5G in the Philippines. Mark your calendars as this smartphone with 200MP AI Camera is set to be launched on August 2, the same time as the GMA Gala 2025. “We owe the success of the HONOR 400 5G to our HONOR fans, without a doubt, and with that, we are introducing the HONOR 400 Pro 5G. They asked for it and their wish is our command. Coming this August 2, HONOR fans and tech enthusiasts should definitely watch out for #YourAIPhone with 200MP AI Camera,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng. “For two years straight now, we have partnered with GMA for its annual gala to really bring out the camera capabilities of our midrange heroes. We are excited to share this

Smart’s

feat with them,” Cheng continued. What do we know about HONOR 400 Pro 5G So Far Addition to the exceptional AI photography experience and outstanding durability of the standard version, the HONOR 400 Pro 5G includes a 50MP Telephoto Camera with a Sony IMX856 sensor, 3x optical zoom, and OIS, ensuring detailed zoom shots. It is equipped with the AI Enhanced Portrait feature and delivers ultrahigh-definition Portraits that ensure the true colors of every subject shine through.

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

nology to improve communication, location accuracy, and data sharing between emergency service providers and link them together to address an emergency call. Moving beyond traditional voice-only calls, the NGA 911 technology enables to public to use multimedia text, photos and videos with their calls. These are then processed by the system to ensure faster call routing and enhanced location services. The result is quicker, more efficient, and coordinated responses during emergencies. With the NENA membership, NGA 911 Philippines can better assure LGUs and institutions that its services conform to the highest global standards in. emergency response.

MOBILE services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is making it easier, more affordable, and more convenient for Filipinos to enjoy seamless connectivity while traveling with the launch of Smart Travē (pronounced TRAV-ie), a handy app that allows users to purchase local eSIMs and connect in over 80 overseas destinations for as low as P40 per day.

Now downloadable on Google Play Store for Android users and on the Apple App Store for iOS users, Smart Travē enables customers — regardless of their network provider — to conveniently browse, purchase, and activate prepaid eSIM data packages with just a few taps on their eSIMcompatible device.

Connect for as low as P40 per day

By using Smart Travē, travelers no longer need to swap physical SIM cards, queue at airport kiosks just to purchase a physical SIM card, or go through the hassle of locating public WiFi hotspots just to connect while traveling. Once downloaded, users can simply choose their destination, select a data package, pay using their preferred method, and activate the eSIM for immediate use.

Depending on their destination, chosen data package, and preferred validity period, customers can connect online with data packages starting at $4.50 valid for 7 days, enabling them to access essential travel apps to navigate unfamiliar cities; book rides or accommodations; stay connected on messaging apps; access travel documents; translate languages; and share real-time updates on social media.

Travel with ease and convenience in over 80 destinations

Smart Travē supports local connectivity in over 80 destinations worldwide, including top international destina-

tions among Filipino travelers such as Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Thailand, United States of America, Korea, and Vietnam.

The app also offers eSIM connectivity in Albania, Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Guadeloupe, Guam, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Isle of Man, Jersey, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Pakistan, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Reunion, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, and Uzbekistan.

Whether you’re heading to Hong Kong, Japan, or Singapore for business, embarking on a culinary adventure in Korea, Taiwan, or Thailand, or attending a summit in the United States or the United Arab Emirates, Smart Travē offers a reliable and convenient app to stay connected wherever your journey takes you.

SHOWBIZ

Very Wang Nickie Wang

IT WAS a night that shimmered with sequins, surprise celebrity appearances, and a whole lot of Filipino heart. The Smart Araneta Coliseum lit up on July 31 as Unilab and Mercury Drug pulled out all the stops for Alagang Suki Fest 2025, a joint 80th anniversary bash.

The evening kicked off with dance crew Legit Status delivering an electrifying opening performance. Comedy Manila’s GB Labrador and James Caraan warmed up the crowd with quick-fire punchlines, setting the tone for a feel-good celebration. Then came the parade of familiar faces. Jolina Magdangal popped up mid-show for the Neurogen-E segment. Robi Domingo brought comic timing and pep during the Kremil-S portion, keeping the crowd energised.

But it was Belle Mariano who had everyone’s phones in the air. Dressed in a sparkly blue outfit, she strutted onstage to Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies,” followed by Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” And just when the energy couldn’t go higher, she launched into “Dancing Queen,” stepping off the stage to dance with fans and pose for selfies. Mayonnaise kicked off the main show with a singalong-worthy set anchored by its crowd favourite “Jopay.” Darren Espanto kept the energy high in black and blue, crooning through “Dying Inside,” “Di Makaramdam,” and the new tearjerker “Paalam Muna Sandali,” fresh off his latest album. Fresh from his North American tour, Maki offered a soulful turn with “Bughaw,” “Dilaw,” and “Saan.” He

also debuted “Kahel na Langit” live at the Big Dome. Between tracks, he spoke about heartbreak, unrequited love, and letting go in Pinoy-hugotin-full-force fashion.

Then came Gary Valenciano whose performance proved exactly why he remains a beloved OPM icon.

From the tender “Wag Mo Na Sanang Isipin” to the foot-stomping “Hataw Na” and his latest track “Blessings” (a duet with RJ dela Fuente), Mr. Pure Energy had the entire Big Dome singing along.

Bringing it home was headliner BINI, whose tight choreography and bold visuals lit up the stage. “Pantropiko,” “Karera,” “Shagidi Shapopo,” and “Salamin, Salamin” had the crowd dancing until the final note. For the encore, the rest of the night’s performers joined them for a grand finale worthy of the milestone celebration.

Alagang Suki Fest 2025 was a celebration of community and connection. Through decades of health and wellness products—and now, a massive music fest—Unilab and Mercury Drug reminded everyone why they’re such a fixture in Filipino life. Powered by the Alagang Unilab Rewards and Mercury Drug Suki Card programs, the night was both a thank-you and a trip down memory lane.

Emilio Daez is Gen Z’s next big thing

By Nickie Wang

‘Alagang

Suki Fest’

delivers a transcending celebration of music and milestones

that the 9-to-5 grind wasn’t where he wanted to stay. So, he left. And just like that, he stepped into a world of scripts, shoots, and digital screens.

Arcilla. Not long after, he joined a Kapamilya game show and walked away with a P1 million jackpot. That’s kind of cool under pressure? Not bad for a newcomer.

is ’s

HE ONCE crunched numbers in a corporate office. Now, Emilio Daez turning heads in the world of showbiz, proving that reinvention is always possible, and it can be powerful. At first glance, Emilio might seem like just another fresh face in entertainment. But scroll through your feed, catch a scene on your screen, or spot him in a brand ad, and you’ll sense it: there’s something different about the way he moves through the spotlight. Purposeful. Quietly confident. And completely unbothered by the usual fame formula. Yes, he’s Mikael Daez younger brother. And yes, Megan Young happens to be his sisterin-law. But Emilio isn’t just riding the family name. If anything, he’s carving a lane that feels entirely his own. Before acting, Emilio was deep into finance. A Management Engineering graduate from Ateneo, he worked for two years as an investment banker, until he realized

That leap didn’t come without work. Behind the camera-ready smile is someone who treats discipline like a lifestyle. Emilio stays active— basketball, gym, fun runs—and keeps his health in check. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about staying grounded in an industry that often isn’t.

Emilio made his acting debut in a TV drama, sharing the screen with veterans like Piolo Pascual and John

Emilio is also building a strong digital presence. He’s racked up 1.1 million TikTok followers, 760K on Instagram, and nearly 300K on Facebook, yet his content never feels forced. Whether he’s poking fun at himself, showing off an OOTD, or sharing a behindthe-scenes moment, it all feels relaxed. Like he’s letting you in, not performing for likes.

By June, he was leading a new ABS-CBN Studios original series on iWantTFC and co-hosting one of the country’s biggest singing competitions. And then came another milestone: being named the newest face of KFC. The brand says it all— easygoing, fun, and unmistakably present.

Emilio is co-managed by Star Magic and VCM The Celebrity Source, with Kali Vidanes overseeing his endorsements. Together, they’re laying the groundwork for a career that balances acting, hosting, and digital content—without the noise.

Emilio (third from left) together with KFC and Star Magic executives

‘Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition’ former housemate Emilio Daez is the newest endorser of fast-food chain KFC

Belle Mariano performs a medley of songs, including ‘Single Ladies,’‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody,’ and ‘Dancing Queen’

Darren Espanto keeps the energy high with performances of songs from his new album

‘Nation’s Girl Group’ BINI wraps up the ‘Alagang Suki Fest 2025‘

Maki’s latest track, ‘Kahel Na Langit,’ makes its debut at the Big Dome

OPM icon Gary Valenciano also graces the music festival

C4 LIFE

SATURDAY, AUGUST 2, 2025 lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Plant-based milk brand lowers prices to boost access in Philippines

OAT milk brand Oatside has lowered its suggested retail prices in the Philippines in a move to make its products more accessible to local consumers.

The 1-liter Barista Blend is now available at P120, while the 200-milliliter Original variant is priced at P29 in supermarkets and P34 in convenience stores. The updated prices are effective across major supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores nationwide.

“As we have scaled over the last three years, we’ve worked hard to find efficiencies through our supply chain, and we are passing these savings on to consumers,” said Benedict Lim founder and CEO of Oatside.

Lim added that the oat milk’s formulation remains unchanged, continuing to offer a creamy, malty taste made from roasted oats and the company’s proprietary enzyme extraction process. The product is lactose-free, low in sugar, and contains calcium levels similar to dairy milk. Oatside products are now available in more than 7,000 retail locations across the country, including supermarkets, restaurants, coffee shops, and specialty food stores.

“With the price reduction, we hope to make Oatside even more accessible for Filipinos,” said Mario Dagdag, country manager for Oatside Philippines.

The oat-based drink is made from roasted whole-grain oats and natural enzymes, with no artificial flavors. Its barista blend offers a creamy, balanced taste with no added sugar, while the chocolate variant features dark cocoa and mild sweetness.

New prices are now in effect across supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores nationwide.

Pamper yourself with nature-inspired treatments

Conrad Spa Manila debuts holistic treatments with organic skincare

By Angelica Villanueva

ONRAD Spa Manila has introduced new massage and facial treatments featuring ISUN Skincare, a brand of organic skincare products now available in the Philippines for the first time.

The expanded spa menu is part of Conrad Manila’s ongoing effort to offer restorative wellness services grounded in natural ingredients and traditional techniques.

“Wellness is not just a service but a philosophy. These new treatments represent our commitment to creating enriching moments that help guests reconnect with themselves and the world around them,” said Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila. ISUN Skincare products are handcrafted in small batches using botanical ingredients. At Conrad Spa, they are incorporated into therapies that include gua sha, energy-balancing massage, and aromatherapy with gemstone-infused oils. One of the new offerings is Transcend, a 90-minute full-body massage that uses calming blends and herb-infused oils to ease muscle tension and support energy flow.

The 90-minute Elevate Facial is designed to address dull or fatigued skin. It combines traditional gua sha techniques with a facial massage that targets muscle tone, circulation, and skin texture.

For guests seeking a shorter option, the Ormus Bath is a 30-minute aromatic soak in mineralrich salts. The treatment is intended to help calm the body and ease physical stress. The new treatments can be booked individually or combined into personalized sessions. All offerings reflect the spa’s focus on sustainability, natural ingredients, and holistic wellness. Conrad Spa Manila is located inside Conrad Manila in Pasay City. For appointments or further information, contact +632 8683 3920 or email MNLMB.Spa@ConradHotels.com.

City of Dreams Sri Lanka completes integrated resort project

CITY of Dreams Sri Lanka, a $1.2 billion integrated resort developed by John Keells Holdings PLC and Melco Resorts & Entertainment, is opening today, Aug. 2. It is set to become South Asia’s first fully integrated resort and the largest private sector investment in Sri Lanka’s luxury lifestyle industry.

The launch completes the final phase of the project, which includes a Melco-operated casino, the ultra-luxury Nüwa hotel, and a premium shopping mall. These additions build on earlier developments, including the 687room Cinnamon Life hotel that opened in October 2024.

Located in the heart of Colombo, City of Dreams Sri Lanka combines luxury hospitality, high-end retail, immersive entertainment, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) infrastructure in a single destination.

The full development includes 800 rooms and suites—687 in the Cinnamon Life hotel and 113 in the Nüwa hotel—as well as large-scale facilities for business events and conventions, a casino built to international luxury gaming standards, signature restaurants by internationally acclaimed chefs, and performance venues designed for both global acts and local cultural showcases.

Oatside founder and CEO Benedict Lim says the brand has improved its supply

Enjoy a 90-minute massage through Transcend Massage which uses aromatherapy, gemstones, and herb-infused oils

Elevate Facial is a 90-minute therapeutic facial using gua sha techniques to stimulate circulation, contour, and detoxify

Ormus bath