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PBBM SUSPENDS RICE IMPORTS FOR 60 DAYS STARTING SEPT. 1 By Charles Dantes, Othel V. Campos, Maricel V. Cruz PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered a 60-day suspension of all rice imports starting September 1, 2025 to protect local farmers struggling with plummeting palay prices during the current harvest season, Malacañang on Wednesday said. Basmati and other fancy rice varieties, however, are not covered by the

60-day import suspension, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said, noting that temporary import ban applies only to regular milled and well-milled rice. Mr. Marcos added it was not yet time to start talks on revising tariffs on imported rice, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Dave Gomez said. "We will still see if we need to resort to that," Gomez said. "Right now, the decision is to suspend all rice importation for 60 days beginning Sept. Next page

VOL. XXXIX • NO. 172 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 •

Senate ‘archives’ impeach rap Won't hold trial of VP Sara until SC reverses earlier ruling By Ram Superable and Maricel V. Cruz

ENATORS did not dismiss the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte but instead had it “archived” – which means no trial will happen until the Supreme Court reverses its earlier ruling junking the Articles of Impeachment.

PRO AND ANTI. Scenes from yesterday's session at the Senate when Sen. Rodante Marcoleta,

top right, moved to dismiss the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte on the basis of the Supreme Court ruling on the issue. Marcoleta's motion was subsequently challenged by minority leader, top left, Sen. Tito Sotto. Below left in a huddle are Senate President Chiz Escudero, Majority leader Sen. Joel Villanueva and Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano. Senate PRIB

Majority of the members of the Upper Chamber voted to support the motion to archive of Senator Rodante Marcoleta, while four voted against (Senators Tito Sotto, Risa Hontiveros, Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan) and one abstained (Senator Panfilo Lacson). Senator Alan Cayetano said archiving the complaint meant that while it is considered dead

for now, it can be revived should the High Court reverse its ruling amid pending motions for reconsideration. Marcoleta initially made a motion to dismiss the complaint against Duterte, noting that the High Court already ruled it was unconstitutional for violating the one-year ban on multiple impeachment proceedings against an official. Next page

Senate, House agree to open Where in the world is VP Sara? OVP mum budget hearings to the public By Katrina Manubay

By Ram Superable and Maricel V. Cruz BOTH chambers of Congress have adopted resolutions to open the national budget process to public scrutiny, according to Sen. Panfilo Lacson. "What we signed yesterday is a concurrent resolution, which means both Houses are finally united in making the

budget process transparent all the way through to the bicam," Lacson said. He cited House Resolution (HR) 94 which authorizes civil society organizations to sit as non-voting observers in budget deliberations at the House appropriations committee. Spearheaded by Speaker Martin Romualdez and Tingog party-list Reps. Yedda Marie Romualdez, Jude

THE Office of the Vice President (OVP) failed or refused to give categorical answers on the whereabouts of Vice President Sara Duterte, but added that she continues to discharge her functions, physically and otherwise.

In a press briefing, OVP spokesperson lawyer Ruth Castelo said they still had to verify the Vice President’s location, but did not give a clear-cut answer on the issue. Castelo asserted, however, that her boss’ involvement in government affairs “never diminished” since 2022.

“Hindi lang natin nakikita, pero ‘yung trabaho na kailangan niyang gawin (We just don’t see her, but the tasks she had to do) for the office are being done. Sometimes virtual, sometimes ghost.” Castelo explained. Meanwhile, Malacañang said it Next page

Palace won’t release unverified lists of alleged corrupt contractors By Charles Dantes and Vito Barcelo MALACAÑANG defended President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s approach to the ongoing investigation into alleged anomalies in flood control projects, saying he will not release unverified

lists or issue threats, unlike previous administrations. This came after Rep. Leila de Lima, in a privilege speech at the House of Representatives, called for a serious crackdown on alleged corruption in flood control spending. She urged the government to‘name names,’’ file Next page

IN TOUCH. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the suspension of all rice importation for 60 days beginning Sept. 1, 2025 after conferring with Cabinet members on the sidelines of his 5-day State Visit to India. PCO

India visit opens up more opportunities By Charles Dantes

MAGNA CARTAS. Tingog Partylist Representatives Yedda Romualdez

and Jude Acidre show copies of the proposed Magna Carta for Children and Magna Carta of Workers in the Informal Economy after filing them at the Bills and Index Service at the House of Representatives. The Magna Carta for Children was enrolled as House Bill No. 3137 and the Magna Carta of Workers in the Informal Economy as House Bill No. 3138

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday described his bilateral talks with Indian President Droupadi Murmu as one of the "most productive and constructive" visits he has ever undertaken, expressing optimism about stronger ties and deeper cooperation between the Philippines and India. Speaking after their meeting at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Marcos thanked President Murmu for the

warm and elegant welcome extended to him and his delegation, calling it a testament to the two countriesâ€™ shared desire to strengthen relations. "Like my father before me, I will always cherish this state visit as living proof of our shared desire to draw closer to each other," President Marcos said. "I am very inspired by the meetings we held today and look forward to bringing home the gains from our engagements." Next page

Free tuition law threatens private colleges’‘viability’ THE Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) on Wednesday reported that the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (Republic Act 10931) has led to unintended consequences on private higher education institutions (HEIs) despite Next page

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Pinoy meets Japan kin for first time A

Jose Takei, 82, arrived in Japan on a government-funded trip, part of Tokyo's broader effort to help people of Japanese descent abroad obtain citizenship 80 years after the end of the war.

After arriving at Kansai International Airport in Osaka Prefecture, western Japan, Takei told reporters it felt like a dream come true to be in Japan and said he hopes to visit his father's grave. He will stay until Sunday.

Jose Takei

Takei's meeting with his relative came after he filed a request with the Tokyo Family Court earlier in the week to obtain Japanese nationality. He had met Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in April, when the Japanese leader visited Manila and pledged to support descendants left behind in the Philippines. Nikkeijin refers to people of Japanese descent living outside their ancestral homeland. Many were unable to obtain either Japanese or Philippine citizenship because their birth records were lost during World War II. As of March, around 2,160 people

Senate...

peachment against the Vice President are unconstitutional." Lacson, the lone abstention, explained his vote: "I would rather wait, not preempt the final ruling of the high court. It is for these reasons that I abstain." Hontiveros said of her "no" vote: "The 1987 Constitution entrusted the duty to try and decide all cases of impeachment to the Senate. Today we are voting to abandon this mandate...It is our institution that killed the articles of impeachment." The original motion Marcoleta was met by strong opposition from Senate Minority Leader Tito Sotto, who moved to table the motion to dismiss. Sotto said it was “not impossible” for the SC to reverse itself and a hasty dismissal could be dangerous and be seen as an act of bad faith on the part of the Upper Chamber. “Just to remind everyone, the reversal of the Supreme Court's own decision is not impossible, even in landmark cases,” Sotto said. Lacson also said there is no motion to dismiss under the Upper Chamber’s rules, while Senators Francis Pang-

ilinan and Hontiveros said the issue could be resolved if the Senate convenes as an impeachment court. Hontiveros said the Supreme Court decision, while immediately executory, has not yet “attained finality.” “Evern the Supreme Court is waiting for the comment of the Vice President. We should exercise prudence in this matter of transcendental importance,” she said. Escudero, however, cited a previous action to “archive” during the impeachment complaints against then President Joseph Estrada and then Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez. Cayetano suggested to Marcoleta to amend his motion to have the impeachment complaint archived instead even as the Upper Chamber obeys the SC ruling. Voting 19-5 against Sotto’s motion to table, senators proceeded to vote on Marcoleta’s amended motion to have the complaint archived instead. Meanwhile, Antonio Bucoy, spokesperson of the House of Representatives’ prosecution panel in the impeachment case, said the Supreme

Court has made it significantly more difficult to impeach high-ranking public officials by imposing additional, previously non-existent requirements. “You will now have to go through the eye of the needle to hold a guilty public official accountable,” Bucoy said. He said the SC ruling went against the plain language of the 1987 Constitution and could discourage legitimate efforts to hold powerful officials accountable. He added the impeachment is designed not to protect powerful individuals but to safeguard the broader public interest. Malacañang, for its part, said President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos will not interfere in whatever action the Senate may take on the impeachment proceedings. “Whatever happens in the Senate on this matter is in their hands. The President will not intervene in the work of the Senate,” said Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro. "To the senators, just do your job. If there are those who must be held accountable, then they should be."

velopments in palay farmgate prices and overall market behavior. “If this strategy leads to higher farmgate prices and better income for our farmers, we may no longer need to raise the tariff. What matters most is that we make a well-informed decision because millions of lives depend on the outcome,” he said. However, a group of stakeholders in the rice industry on Wednesday called on the government to conduct consultations and provide clear guidelines on the planned 60day suspension of rice importation, warning of possible supply gaps and confusion among importers and traders. Philippine Rice Industry Stakeholders Movement (PRISM) cofounder Orlando Manuntag said while they fully support the government’s goal of protecting local farmers, the import ban must be thoroughly studied amid recent weather disturbances and the country's current rice supply status. “We agree with the government’s thrust to increase tariffs to protect our farmers. But suspending rice imports needs to be reviewed carefully. We’re already dealing with typhoons and climate disruptions. We need clear guidelines,” he said. Manuntag pointed to concerns about the sufficiency of the country’s rice supply, with government data showing that the Philippines’ rice self-sufficiency level has hovered at around 78 percent since 2023, far below the 100 percent

mark needed to be fully self-reliant. “This means we have a 22-percent gap in domestic supply. Last year, we imported 4.8 million metric tons of rice. This year, the USDA projects 5 million metric tons. As of July, we’re only at 2.4 million metric tons,” he said. The group warned that suspending imports for two months could put pressure on the country’s buffer stock, especially with the National Food Authority holding only eight to nine days’ worth of rice as of recent estimates. Daily rice consumption in the Philippines averages around 37,000 metric tons, or roughly 740,000 cavans. Manuntag warned that if imports are halted while harvest is still peaking, there could be serious challenges in maintaining a stable supply and prices. He also called on the government to provide a recommended buying price for palay, noting that current market prices range from P13 to P14 per kilo, well below the 2023 cost of production of P13.40 per kilo. He said without a set price, traders might hesitate to buy while farmers might sell at a loss. The Federation of Free Farmers welcomed efforts to protect farmers, but said these should have been done earlier. “On one hand, we’re pleased that the government has finally acknowledged the problem and is considering steps to address it,” said Raul Montemayor, national manager of the Federation of Free Farmers Cooperatives Inc., in an inter-

view with dzBB. “But on the other hand, why did they wait so long to act? Most farmers have already sold at low prices—this season’s damage has been done. Still, better late than never,” he added. However, agricultural group Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) said the temporary import ban will have minimal effect. "Importers can simply advance or delay their shipments to work around the suspension, especially since the tariff rate remains at a low 15 percent… Despite the temporary halt, palay prices are expected to remain depressed, and farmers will continue to incur loss. In reality, the measure does little to protect local producers or stabilize the rice market," said Jayson Cainglet, SINAG executive director of SINAG. He said only a tariff hike to bring import rates back to 35 percent will be truly beneficial to farmers. Still, NFA administrator Larry Lacson noted that the announcement of the temporary ban on rice imports immediately pushed palay prices up in Bulacan. “So much imported rice has arrived in the country, and this is the reason why palay prices remain depressed,” Lacson told ABS-CBN News. For his part, Speaker Martin Romualdez called the suspension of the rice importation for 60 days a timely move “to protect Filipino farmers and give the nation a chance to realign its priorities on food security.”

Free...

going to work very hard together with our counterparts in the Indian government to bring all of these to fruition." The President also emphasized the enduring closeness between the two nations and expressed confidence that the outcomes of his state visit would lead to tangible benefits for both Filipino and Indian citizens. The state visit comes amid the formal launch of a strategic partnership between the Philippines and India, which covers expanded defense cooperation, economic initiatives, and cultural exchanges.

Palace...

people. The facts must be verified, and only then will those truly accountable be held liable," she added. Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Wednesday announced it will undertake a comprehensive revision of the flood control master plans for the Pasig-Marikina and Cagayan River Basins to better address flooding in these areas. DPWH Undersecretary Emil Sadain said the updates aim to enhance existing flood control systems and implement new strategies to reduce flood risks in surrounding communities. The project, in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), involves finalizing updated master plans for the two major river systems in Luzon, which play key roles in the economic growth of Metro Manila and the Cagayan Valley Region. Sadain and JICA Senior Representative Takanori Morishima led the presentation of the draft master plan reports for the Pasig-Marikina and Cagayan River Basins. The proposed plans include both structural and non-structural measures to improve disaster resilience in floodprone areas.Sadain also stressed the urgency of completing the revisions, citing the impact of previous typhoons Ondoy (2009), Lawin (2016), Ulysses (2020), and Carina (2024) which displaced thousands in the National Capital Region and Region 2.

receiving initial praise for expanding college access. PIDS research found that while the free tuition law led to an enrollment surge in HEIs, it "exacerbated the decline of private institutions—a sector that still forms the majority of the country’s academic landscape." According to PIDS Senior Research Fellow Dr. Connie BayudanDacuycuy, enrollment in public HEIs grew by 4 percent annually from 2009 to 2019, while private HEIs saw only a smaller 0.8-percent increase. "The share of private HEIs declined from 79 percent in 2009 to 72 percent in 2019," Bayudan-Dacuycuy said. PIDS said these trends point to a growing imbalance: "While free tuition has made education more accessible, it has also redirected enrollment away from private HEIs, putting their financial viability at risk." In response, the PIDS Senior Research Fellow suggested replacing the blanket free tuition model with a voucher system that would give students more options and promote healthy competition between public and private HEIs. "The government could implement a voucher system, allowing qualified students to choose their schools and programs... It would enhance complementarity between public and private HEIs and address perceptions of policy bias favoring public institutions," BayudanDacuycuy said.

MAN of Japanese descent, part of the so-called Nikkeijin community in the Philippines, met a Japanese relative for the first time on Wednesday during a visit to Japan, decades after being separated from his father in the aftermath of World War II.

From A1

He eventually amended it to a motion to archive after his original motion triggered a heated debate among his colleagues. Senate President Francis Escudero, who backed Marcoleta's amended motion, had strong words for the House of Representatives. "To the House of Representatives, I say do not allow yourselves to be used for the blind hatred and ambition of a few...To these people I say this: The Senate is not your playground to run after your political enemies,” the Senate President said. Cayetano, who also voted yes to the motion to archive, said: "If the Vice President really committed an impeacheable offense, then let us impeach her. But let us do so in the proper manner." Senator Bong Go, who also voted to archive the complaint, added: “The Supreme Court has already spoken in crystal clear language, the Court unanimously voted that the articles of im-

PBBM... From A1

1. That is the order of our President to help our rice farmers.” Tiu Laurel agreed, saying the temporary ban was a “measured response” to the challenges currently faced by rice farmers, especially amid reports that some traders are buying palay at just P8 per kilo, far below the average cost of production. “The suspension is a more calibrated action, one that we can quickly reverse if needed. It gives us the flexibility to act fast to protect both our farmers and our consumers. A premature tariff hike, on the other hand, could backfire and would take much longer to undo,” Tiu Laurel said. “We are walking a tightrope here. The stakes are high for both our farmers and the Filipino people, so it’s crucial that we strike the right balance,” he added. The temporary suspension is authorized under the Rice Tariffication Law, which allows the President to temporarily halt or restrict imports to stabilize local prices. The DA had earlier proposed a tariff increase on rice imports, from the current 15 percent back to 25 percent, and eventually to 35 percent. But with the President’s decision to hold off discussions on the proposed tariff hike, Tiu Laurel said the DA will use the 60-day window to monitor de-

India... From A1

While noting the brevity of his visit, he said the discussions exceeded expectations and opened new avenues for cooperation in key sectors. "We did not expect to cover much ground because of the limited time we had here. But I am happy to report that that was certainly not the case," President Marcos said, noting that"We have discovered a multitude of possibilities and areas of potential, and we are

Where... From A1

has yet to receive official information about the current whereabouts of the Vice President. In a media briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said Malacañang has reached out to the Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) but has received no update regarding the Vice President’s location. "Currently, we have no information. We have already called the Office of the Executive Secretary," Castro said. According to the Palace, the last approved travel authority for the Vice

President covered the period from July 5 to July 28, during which she visited The Hague in the Netherlands and South Korea. Castro also addressed circulating reports that the Vice President plans to travel to Kuwait on August 8. "We have heard and been asked about the Vice President's alleged plan to go to Kuwait on August 8, but as we speak, the Vice President has not yet filed a request for travel authority for the said trip," she stated. Under Philippine government protocol, officials holding Cabinet rank, such as the Vice President, must secure a travel authority from the Office of the President for official and personal trips abroad.

From A1

charges, and avoid using a re-enacted budget to cover up the issue. In response, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President is committed to due process and will not be pressured into making premature accusations. "First of all, the President will not engage in any kind of threats. He will not release any list that is not verified," Castro said during a press briefing in New Delhi on Tuesday. "Even if this happened in past administrations, the President made it clear that he will not do the same." Castro said the President’s recent statements underscore the need for transparency and accountability in crafting the 2026 national budget. Regarding flood control projects flagged by lawmakers and watchdog groups, she said the administration is already investigating whether the projects were completed, abandoned, or entirely nonexistent. "If it turns out there were ghost projects or misuse of funds, the President will not hesitate to file charges against those responsible," she said, adding that names have yet to be released as the probe is still ongoing. "We must avoid making hasty accusations that could harm innocent

of Japanese descent in the Philippines, including Takei, had no Japanese citizenship, according to the Philippine Nikkei-Jin Legal Support Center, which helped trace his relatives. The center classifies those born to a Japanese national as "secondgeneration." The center said that among the roughly 2,160 Nikkeijin without Japanese citizenship, about 130 are still alive, and around 50 have expressed interest in obtaining Japanese nationality. The average age of the surviving second generation is 83. Kyodo New

Senate... From A1

Acidre, and Andrew Julian Romualdez, the resolution affirms the House’s strong commitment to “transparency, people-centered governance, and inclusive development.” Lacson also cited the Senate's adoption of Concurrent Resolution No. 4 which he and fellow senators ratified to ensure transparency from initial discussions to the bicameral conference. "At the very least, the proponents of amendments, also known as insertions and realignments, can now be traced, making it easier to identify those responsible when projects turn out to be flawed or imaginary," the senator said. HR 94 aims to accredit bonafide people’s organizations and enable them to sit in all public hearings conducted by the House Committee on Appropriations and its sub-committees during the national budget discussions. “The voice of the people is definitely stronger in today's deliberation of the 2026 national budget for a more transparent process,” Romualdez said. The resolution mandates that the Committee on Appropriations, in coordination with the Committee on People’s Participation, to determine the eligibility, accreditation process, and scope of CSO involvement in accordance with the House rules. The measure is anchored on the 1987 Constitution, particularly Sections 15 and 16 of Article XIII which recognize the right of the people and their organizations to participate in decision-making processes and protect their collective interests. It also cites Section 3, Chapter 2, Book VI of the Revised Administrative Code which defines the national budget as an instrument of national development. The authors emphasized that people’s organizations working in vital sectors such as education, public health, social welfare, environment, agriculture, and local governance bring critical perspectives and on-the-ground expertise that can help guide more responsive and equitable budgeting. The initiative also complements President Marcos’ push for sound fiscal governance and strategic alignment of public spending with national priorities such as infrastructure, healthcare, and digitalization.

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Herbosa says 20 hospitals to assist overcrowded PGH By Joel E. Zurbano DEPARTMENT of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa on Wednesday said government-owned and -controlled (GOCC) hospitals are ready to assist the overcrowded Philippine General Hospital (PGH). At least 20 hospitals in Metro Manila are on standby to receive patients. These facilities have the capacity to accommodate additional cases and provide essential medical services. Herbosa assured patients that the “Bayad na Bill Mo” program is being strictly implemented in DOH hospitals, in accordance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive. “DOH hospitals, as well as the four GOCC hospitals, are open and ready to receive patients who cannot be admitted to UP-PGH due to the temporary overcrowding of its emergency room,” said Herbosa. “All hospitals, clinics, ambulances, and doctors are advised to refrain from bringing new patients to UP-PGH, and instead bring them to DOH hospitals first,” he added. Patients may be admitted to the following DOH hospitals: Dr. Jose Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium in Caloocan City; Las Piñas General Hospital and Satellite Trauma Center in Las Piñas City; San Lorenzo Ruiz General Hospital in Malabon City; National Center for Mental Health in Mandaluyong City; Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital; Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center, San Lazaro Hospital; and Tondo Medical Center in Manila; Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center in Marikina City; Research Institute for Tropical Medicine in Muntinlupa City; Rizal Medical Center in Pasig City; East Avenue Medical Center, National Children’s Hospital, Philippine Orthopedic Center, and Quirino Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City; and Valenzuela Medical Center in Valenzuela City

TONDO BLAZE. A fire breaks out in a residential area near Aroma Compound along Road 10 in Barangay 105, Tondo, Manila, on Wednesday. According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the blaze quickly escalated and reached Task Force Charlie status at 10:59 a.m. Norman Cruz

‘Relief efforts not driven by surveys’ By Charles Dantes

RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. rejected suggestions that his administration’s recent rollout of pro-people programs is politically motivated, saying the initiatives are part of efforts to ease the everyday struggles of ordinary Filipinos, and not meant to boost survey numbers. President Marcos stated on his BBM Podcast that his active involvement in launching government projects is not for popularity, despite public approval reflected in rising trust and approval ratings. “We don’t work according to surveys,

not really,” President Marcos said. “If we hear complaints, for example, that lines at PhilHealth are too long, then we ask: what can we do to make it easier?” he added. He said the government’s approach is

centered on providing practical and immediate solutions to issues that directly affect daily life. Examples include fare discounts for seniors and students, digitalization of public health claims, and the expansion of social assistance programs. “These are not big-ticket projects, but they save time, make things cheaper, more convenient. They have value for all of us,” he added. President Marcos also emphasized the importance of raising awareness about available services, explaining why he has been physically present at

TEAMING UP. MMDA

chairman Don Artes meets with SMC officials led by chairman and CEO Ramon Ang at the agency’s central office in Pasig City on Tuesday to discuss ongoing initiatives to clean waterways in Metro Manila.

Manila air pollution now a major health crisis, experts warn By Rex Espiritu HEALTH experts raised alarm on Wednesday over the worsening air pollution in Metro Manila, saying it has escalated from an environmental issue into a serious public health emergency. Citing the State of Global Air 2024 report, the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health (ASMPH) said poor air quality remains the leading environmental threat to human health worldwide, responsible for 8.1 million

deaths in 2021 alone. Fine particulate matter such as PM2.5— small enough to penetrate the lungs and bloodstream—is linked to diseases including asthma, heart disease, stroke, and cancer. “Air pollution is the leading cause of disease and early death worldwide, even more than high blood pressure or smoking, and yet, we don’t have enough publicly available data to protect the populations most at risk,” said Dr. Annelle Raphayette Chua, who leads the study at the ASMPH Center for Research and Inno-

AFP searches for possible Chinese rocket debris By Rex Espiritu THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Command (Wescom) has mobilized its air and naval assets to search for possible debris from a Chinese rocket that reportedly flew over Palawan earlier this week. Col. Napoleon Padua, Wescom spokesperson, told reporters that the search operations began Tuesday in the Sulu Sea, specifically between the eastern coast of mainland Palawan and the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. As of Wednesday morning, no debris has been found. “A naval vessel and a rotary aircraft were deployed in the Sulu Sea, roughly between the eastern side of mainland Palawan and Tubbataha,” Padua said, adding, “Another rotary aircraft was deployed to continue the search for the possible debris. We are still waiting for developments.”

vation (ACRI). To address this, a coalition of academic institutions and technology partners under the banner Breathe Metro Manila launched a campaign to improve real-time air quality monitoring across the region. The group is pushing for data-driven solutions to mitigate health risks and guide policymaking. Their efforts align with the National Environmental Health Action Plan (NEHAP) 2030, which calls for stronger environmental health protections.

WATERWAY.

A farmer heads home across the Aringay River in La Union after a day’s work, accompanied by his pet dog and trusted farm animal. Dave Leprozo.

program launches. “When the President goes, it highlights the program,” he said. “People read it in the news or see it on TV; that way they know these services exist and how to access them.” He cited the launch of the Bayanihan Estero Program, a community-based waterway cleanup effort, as an example, saying his presence helped draw public attention and encourage community involvement. When asked to respond to critics who view these efforts as short-term or superficial, Marcos pointed to individual beneficiaries.

IN BRIEF Filipino tourist dies in HK car accident outside hotel A 35-YEAR-OLD Filipino tourist died from injuries in a vehicular accident in Tsuen Wan West, Hong Kong, on Tuesday, August 5, the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed An 11-second video posted by local media shows a taxi accelerating toward the victim and pinning him to a column outside a hotel. The 80-year-old taxi driver reportedly felt dizzy and lost control of the vehicle, and also sustained injuries. “The Consulate General offers its deepest condolences to the deceased’s family and prays for his eternal rest,” the DFA said in a statement. The taxi driver is now in police custody, while the victim’s remains have been brought to the Kwai Chung Public Mortuary, according to the Consulate General. The DFA added that it is assisting the victim’s family and is preparing for their arrival in Hong Kong to arrange the repatriation of the remains. Katrina Manubay

Erring transport providers nabbed in NAIA crackdown THE Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNP-Avsegroup) has impounded eight vehicles—three taxis, four TNVS units, and one private vehicle—at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) as part of a crackdown on erring transport providers. The vehicles were towed and brought to the Avsegroup headquarters for proper documentation. Violations included unauthorized operations, overcharging, franchise breaches, defective meters, unregistered vehicles, improvised plates, and dress code issues. Avsegroup chief Brig. Gen. Jason Capoy stressed the agency’s commitment to clean up airport transport. “There is no place for abusive drivers at the airport,” he said. “We are serious about protecting passengers from scams and overpriced fares.” The crackdown follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive, issued in response to multiple complaints, including a 60/40 extortion scheme involving taxi drivers and Airport Police Department personnel. Joel E. Zurbano

CIDG agents arrest illegal gun trader in Batangas THE Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) said it is ntensifying its operations against loose firearms, criminal gangs, and crime groups nationwide. On August 1, the CIDG Batangas Provincial Field Unit arrested a suspect in a buy-bust operation at a gas station in Sto. Tomas, Batangas. Confiscated from him were three loose firearms, magazines, and assorted ammunition. A report to Acting CIDG Director Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano identified the suspect as “Zandy,” who was caught delivering two caliber 5.56 rifles and one caliber .22 rifle. The suspect is allegedly involved in illegal firearm trading and gunrunning activities in Batangas and surrounding provinces. Vince Lopez

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IN BRIEF NBP bares huge drop in inmates congestion

WOUNDED STORMTROOPER.

Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry ‘Stormtrooper’ Division, pins the Wounded Personnel Medal to one of his men who was wounded during a recent clash with the communist New People’s Army in a remote barangay in Las Navas, Eastern Samar. Army photo

PH, India adopt visa-free policy By Charles Dantes

HE Philippines and India will begin offering visa-free entry to each other’s citizens and resume direct flights in October, President Marcos announced Tuesday, marking a major step in strengthening tourism and cultural ties under a new strategic partnership.

In a joint news conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, Marcos said the Philippines has extended visa-free access to Indian travelers, while India will also waive visa requirements for Filipino tourists.

Both leaders hailed the move as a milestone in promoting closer ties between their peoples. “I reiterated our introduction of a visafree country entry privileges and extended our invitation for more Indian tourists

to visit the Philippines,” he said. “I thank Prime Minister Modi in turn for the introduction of a scheme to grant visa free-of-charge to Filipinos tourists travelling to India,” Marcos added. The President also confirmed that direct commercial flights between the two nations will resume later this year, easing connectivity between Southeast Asia and South Asia regions. “We welcome the resumption of direct flights from October this year and renewed our commitment to sustaining and expanding such direct air connectivity,” he said. The tourism initiative is part of a

DILG rolls out caravan on gov’t procurement law

NAVY TO THE RESCUE.

A Philippine Navy seacraft tugs a disabled fishing boat to safety in Subic, Zambales, ending two days of rescue operation amid rough seas after the boat suffered engine failure and drifted while waiting for rescuers to arrive.

By Vince Lopez SECRETARY Juanito Victor Remulla of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed all personnel of the agency to fully comply with the law on government procurements, highlighting its relevance in promoting transparency, efficiency, and accountability in public spending. Addressing the department’s first NGPA (New Government Procurement Act) Caravan, Remulla underscored the importance of adhering to Republic Act No. 12009 or the New Government Procurement Act, with integrity to ensure value for money in all procurement activities. “I hope you obey this law. This is for all of us. This is for our people,” Remulla said in Filipino. The Secretary emphasized that RA 12009 was enacted to modernize and streamline state purchasing procedures, eliminate corruption at all levels, and restore public trust in government. “Ito po’y ginawa para mabawasan ang korapsyon sa ating bayan. Ito’y ginawa para tumaas ang tiwala ng ating mga constituents (This law was crafted to avoid corruption in our country. It was enacted to raise public trust in the government),” Remulla said.

THE Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division saluted its soldiers wounded in a recent clash with communist rebels in Barangay San Isidro, Las Navas, Northern Samar. 8ID commander Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio visited the troops on Aug. 4 at the hospital where they are currently recovering. The soldiers sustained injuries during a military operation that resulted in the death of eight members of the New People’s Army’s Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee and the cap-

Navy saves 15 fishermen, tugs fishing boat to Subic THE Philippine Navy has rescued 15 fishermen whose boat suffered engine failure and drifted for two days off Zambales amid rough seas. Fortunately, the Navy picked up distress calls from the skipper of the fishing boat (FB) Moises, and promptly dispatched a multi-purpose attack craft and a tugboat despite hostile sea conditions. The following day, another Navy seacraft joined the operation to complete the towing of the disabled fishing boat to the Calapandayan Fish Port in Subic, Zambales. All 15 crewmen were confirmed safe and given medical assistance and support upon arrival at the port. Rex Espiritu

AFAB launches own Indie film festival TO PROMOTE local filmmaking and nurture home-grown talent, the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), in partnership with the BTN Association, announced the top 10 finalists of its inaugural film festival. These independent local filmmakers with various backgrounds and movie styles will showcase their creativity and storytelling skills in original short films that celebrate the artistry and culture of Bataan. AFAB said the festival aims to support and highlight homegrown talents while promoting the rich culture and creativity of the province. The finalists are Erwin Arceo, Erika Bautista, Emir Canlas, Michael Cervantes, Satoru Corilala, Dexter Paul De Jesus, John Kenney Esperanza. Billy Ray Oyanib, Marvin Rei Panes, and Lemmor Miguel Vitug. Butch Gunio

Retired Army general appointed as BI’s 3rd deputy commissioner By Vito Barcelo PRESIDENT Marcos has appointed retired Army Maj. Gen. Joel Alejandro Nacnac as deputy commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration (BI), replacing lawyer Daniel Laogan who resigned last month. Nacnac’s appointment completed the

three-member BI board of commissioners, alongside Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado and deputy commissioner Aldwin Alegre. Nacnac was officially appointed by the President last 18 July. A seasoned public servant, he brings to the BI over 39 years of military leadership and two decades of legal experience.

Army hails troops hurt in clash with Reds By Rex Espiritu

series of bilateral agreements signed during Marcos’ five-day state visit to India. The deals covered a wide range of cooperation areas, including defense, maritime security, and trade, as both countries sought to elevate ties through their newly formalized strategic partnership. Officials from both countries said the visa waiver and flight resumption will not only support economic recovery in the post-pandemic era, but also bring the Filipino and Indian communities closer through greater mobility and cultural understanding.

THE Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has reported a significant decrease in congestion rate at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City, or from 313 percent in 2022 to 243 percent this year. BuCor chief Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., in his midterm accomplishment report to Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla, disclosed that the reduction stemmed from the construction of new facilities and the transfer of 11,601 prisoners from NBP to other operating prison and penal farms nationwide. Catapang also reported that from June 2022 to June 2025, the BuCor released a total of 23,629 inmates or persons deprived of liberty exceeding the first three years during the past administration by 41.35 percent and surpassing the accomplishment of previous administrations. The unprecedented release of prisoners was made possible thru efficiency in management screening and evaluation, as well as the effective implementation of the good conduct time allowance and expanded access to parole and executive clemency, Catapang said.

ture of ten high-powered firearms. Orio pinned the Wounded Personnel Medal to the injured troops and led a moment of silence in honor of Cpl. Arcel Sicnoy, who was killed in action during the operation. “Though we came at a cost of losing a life, your courage and sacrifice exemplified the highest ideals of a Filipino soldier, and of a Stormtrooper. The 8ID’s victory is yours as well. As your commander, I honor you not as mere soldiers, but as patriots whose selfless commitment to service strengthened our pursuit of lasting peace in Eastern Visayas,” Orio told the troops.

He assured the soldiers and their families, including Sicnoy’s, of sustained financial and moral support from the command. Orio also acknowledged the role of local communities in supporting the operation, emphasizing that civilian cooperation remains key in dismantling insurgent networks. “As we march toward peace and development, we remain committed to the sacrifices of our soldiers and the people we serve and protect. Rest assured that we will deliver more successes, and we will not rest until every shadow of the EVRPC is put to an end,” Orio stressed.

Before joining the BI, Nacnac served as the deputy chief of Reservist and Retiree Affairs of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and held key roles in the military organization. His career spans various command posts across the country. A licensed lawyer since 2005, Nacnac has advised on military justice, eth-

ics, and institutional reform. He is also a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy “Bigkis Lahi” Class of 1990, with advanced studies in law, economics, and public management. His entry into the BI signals a continuing drive toward disciplined, lawbased governance, and reform in line with the agency’s modernization goals.

FILM FINALISTS ALL. These

are the top 10 finalists in the first Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) film festival meant to promote young, local talents in storytelling and filmmaking. Butch Gunio

OPINION

THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Utang pa more? OUR government’s outstanding debt as of end-June was P17.27 trillion, the Bureau of Treasury says. By the end of 2025, it is projected to be 17.35 trillion. It is now equivalent to more than 62 percent of our GDP. For developing countries, the World Bank considers 60 percent debt to GDP ratio as the rule of thumb for sustainable borrowing, although recently, our economic managers are saying that 70 percent is manageable. Maybe, but that depends on several factors, the most important being the growth of the economy. Simply put, if our GDP increases faster than our government borrowings, that would be alright. Where we borrow also matters. If most of government debt is from foreign sources, then it is vulnerable to foreign exchange movements. In our case, roughly 69 percent of our debt are domestic borrowings. The 31 percent is from foreign sources, and must be paid in foreign exchange, basically dollars. Now that the dollar is around 58 to the peso, as compared to June’s 56.50 and May’s 55.70, one could figure out what I mean by the preceding paragraph. Analysts estimate that if a dollar would cost 59 to 60 pesos, the debt to GDP ratio would be as high as 65 percent. The debt maturity averages 5.5 to 6 years, which means P2 trillion is needed to pay the principal of our obligations annually. Another P1 trillion pays for interest, which means the debt exacts some P3 trillion in financing annually. Where do we get this kind of money? Utang pa more. And since foreign loans may be hard to come by when we breach the 60 percent debt-to-GDP ratio, despite assurances of our economic managers that 70 percent is still A-Okay, government will borrow more from domestic sources. Banks will buy government securities because these are guaranteed by the State, which means whoever is elected in 2028 and beyond, will need to pay the banks. Between June 2024 and June 2025, that domestic borrowing grew by 13 percent, which crowds out the ability of local business, especially the medium and small-scale enterprises our DTI keeps vowing to protect and grow, to source much-needed capital for expansion, let alone operation. Under normal circumstances, debt payments should be paid for by increased government revenues. But since our manufacturing sector is tepid, our agricultural production negative with our own food security in peril, our tourist arrivals lagging behind every other ASEAN country other than Myanmar and Laos, where will we source the funds needed to pay off our loans? From consumption expenditures which we tax with 12 percent VAT.

And where does this mostly come from? From our OFWs who remit some $34 billion to their families here and our BPO workers whose jobs are now threatened by AI and robots. Still, government grows our expenditures annually so that for 2026, the president’s submitted expenditure program is P6.8 trillion, up by P500 billion from 2025’s P6.3 trillion, which was P600 billion higher than 2024’s P5.7 trillion.

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Mortgage the future to bankroll past and present graft on top of incompetence, as our leaders keep borrowing more and more But government does not earn enough revenues to fund the P6.8 trillion of which almost a trillion is needed to service interest on the debt. So what to do? Utang pa more. Now don’t get me wrong. Borrowings by government, if used to build useful and lasting infrastructure (not the likes of the Cabangan bridge in Isabela which collapsed after being inaugurated, or the P1.2 trillion worth of flood control projects that worsened rather than mitigated flooding) would serve to grow the economy, attract foreign investors, and invite more tourists. But that’s the big IF. Utang pa more to pay past due debt, to pay the salaries of our bloated bureaucracy with legions of USecs and ASecs, plus the administrative costs of maintaining that bureaucracy and, worst of all, to finance the projects and ayuda of our legislators, as well as the one trillion pesos worth of IRA for LGUs which more often than not, but for very rare exceptions, are larded with tongpats and frivolous expenditures such as beautification, fiestas and “study” travel. Since future debt grows to finance past and present debt, and more than a Ptrillion goes to the pockets of the corrupt with little benefit for the economy, how would you describe the Philippines? In plain and simple language – bankrupt. Meanwhile, suffer the bad roads, the collapsible bridges, drown in the floods, get bogged down by endless traffic, endure the bad state of public health, the mis-education of our youth. In fine, mortgage the future to bankroll past and present graft on top of incompetence, as our leaders keep borrowing more and more.

Metro Manila’s parking problem THERE is no denying that by allowing street parking, traffic flow in all the streets in the National Capital Region will slow down significantly. Prohibit it and traffic flow will undoubtedly improve. For the nth time, the LGUs of the NCR want to take action by either totally banning street parking or at the barest minimum, impose a partial ban. This is now the debate going on among all the traffic authorities in the NCR. The latest news that we are hearing is that some kind of a study is being undertaken to determine the best step to take. We do not know whether this study is in the nature of a survey in the form of collecting traffic data as a basis of decision or simply a discussion about finding the least disruptive solution like allowing parking in some roads while disallowing parking in arterial roads. This seems to be the drift of the current discussions because this early the MMDA and some LGU mayors are already saying a total ban cannot or is extremely difficult to implement. But before anything else, let us try to look at the current traffic data related to this parking problem.

The NCR’s area is about 636 square kilometers with a 2020 population figure of about 13.5 million people which

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We cannot continue to use our roads for dwelling, business as well sports venues. Roads must be used only for vehicles should now be a lot more. The latest available figure for vehicle registration that can be found for the NCR is 3,552,326 for 2023. No figure is available on how many vehicles will be affected by the ban. Unfortunately also, no reliable official figures can be found on the total length of all roads in the NCR except for national roads which is about 1,166.42 kilometers. There are no figures for municipal or city roads and, for that matter, private roads.

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This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in horizontal format with pen and ink texture but colored in acrylic markers of a portly man, with a skeevy mustache, has drowsy eyes that bulge, a pug nose, and an Elvis pompadour. He is slack-jawed with a stream of empty speech balloons cascading from his mouth. Amidst the cascading empty speech balloons is the label ‘anti-K to 12 education.’ He is wearing a huge dunce hat that says ‘Politician. Not an educator.’

EDITORIAL

Poseur Filipinos

AST month, another Chinese national who was able to set up businesses by posing as a Filipino was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport by the National Bureau of Investigation. According to the NBI, the woman identified as Wang Xiujun was placed under arrest upon her arrival at NAIA from Guangdong, China. The operation against her was based on an intelligence report that she had been posing as a Filipino named Cassi Palma Poliquit in some of her business transactions. The NBI said Wang was able to secure a Philippine passport under the made-up Filipino name, as confirmed by the Office of Consular Affairs of the Department of Foreign Affairs, and a birth certificate via the late registration process. Documents obtained by the NBI from the Securities and Exchange Commission showed she was able to establish several companies where she represented herself as a Filipino. This despite the fact that she is a Chinese national with a Special Investor’s Resident Visa based on verification with the Bureau of Investment. Analysis also showed that the fingerprints of both Wang and Poliquit were identical. Following her arrest, the NBI charged Wang with violating the immigration law, specifically misrepre-

sentation as a Filipino, violating the limitations and conditions of stay, and undesirability. The NBI also charged her for violation of Republic Act 8239, or the “Philippine Passport Act of 1996” before the Prosecutor’s Office of Taguig City.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago pointed out that his agency is committed to digging deeper into similar cases. The case of Wang Xiujun aka Cassi Palama Poliquit closely resembles that of dismissed Tarlac, Bamban Mayor

Alice Guo, who was revealed to be a Chinese national named Guo Hua Ping, based on a fingerprint analysis conducted by the NBI. The former mayor is currently in jail for several charges, including money laundering, qualified trafficking, graft, and falsification of public documents In June, the Bureau of Immigration had expressed concern over the continued proliferation of foreigners fraudulently acquiring Philippine identities after it arrested three suspected “fake” Filipinos in Zamboanga del Sur. Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the illegal practice remains prevalent, with foreign nationals still managing to get official documents identifying them as Filipinos despite being ineligible for Philippine citizenship. He warned these foreign nationals could be embedding themselves in the country to conduct espionage activities or crimes. How many more Chinese nationals posing as Filipinos are out there? We really don’t know. But with more Chinese nationals being able to pass themselves off as Filipinos — in all possibility in collusion with corrupt government officials and employees — should be ample cause of concern for our law enforcement, immigration and national security agencies as these are taking place amid tense relations with China in the West Philippine Sea.

I remember, however, when I was with MMDA a long time ago, there were something like 4,500 to 5,000 kilometers of roads all over the NCR. That is for national, city or municipal and private roads. There must be a bit more now but probably not by much. From the available road and vehicle figures, we can have an idea of the current vehicle to road ratio and population to vehicle ownership ratio. As we can see, whichever way one looks at the existing land use of the NCR, it is very problematic due to congestion. It is like having a house constructed for six people only but is packed with 30 people. When that happens, no matter how the people in the house try to manage their living conditions, comfortable living is difficult to achieve.

That in essence is what living in the NCR entails. The plan to ban street parking can therefore be helpful but, corollary to the parking ban, reclaiming the streets taken over by people to build dwellings and establish businesses must also be undertaken. Together, traffic relief would be more substantial. There is no other Metropolitan area in the world except our NCR that uses its roads the way we do and this culture must now stop. We cannot continue to use our roads for dwelling, business as well sports venues. Roads must be used only for vehicles. If the LGUs and MMDA, however, do not have any reliable traffic data to back up their decision, the way to implement the ban is to implement the total ban but give about two weeks for car owners who

use the streets for their parking to find remedies to their problem. Two weeks after the implementation, evaluate the problems encountered then make the necessary adjustments. It is better to implement the worst case scenario than the partial ban preferred by some LGUs so that whatever adjustments that will have to be made later will be based on what transpired in the two weeks of implementation. This is a huge undertaking and thorough preparation is needed to ensure that all participants know exactly their responsibilities. This will guarantee efficient implementation and avoid chaos. If it will be an MMDA operation with the LGUs assisting, this must be spelled out right from the start. If it is the other way around, this must also be spelled out. Let’s all hope everything goes well.

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Anita F. Grefal Baldwin R. Felipe Edgar M. Valmorida

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Treasury Manager Head—Ad Solutions Circulation Manager

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Immigration Commissioner Viado warned these foreign nationals could be embedding themselves in the country to conduct espionage activities or crimes

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher Joyce Pangco Pañares Virgilio DC Galvez Miguel Gil

Managing Editor News Editor City Editor

Honor Blanco Cabie Aytch dela Cruz Lino M. Santos

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

Opinion Editor Online Editor Chief Photographer

WORLD

THURSDAY AUGUST 7, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Hiroshima marks 80 as nuke tensions rise H IROSHIMA – Japan marked 80 years since the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on Wednesday with a ceremony reminding the world of the horrors unleashed, as saber-rattling between the United States and Russia keeps the nuclear “Doomsday Clock” close to midnight. A silent prayer was held at 8:15 am, the moment when US aircraft Enola Gay dropped “Little Boy” over the western Japanese city on Aug. 6, 1945. On a sweltering morning, hundreds of black-clad officials, students and survivors laid flowers at the memorial ceno-

taph, with the ruins of a domed building in the background, a stark reminder of the horrors that unfolded. In a speech, Hiroshima mayor Kazumi Matsui warned of “an accelerating trend toward military buildup around the world”, against the backdrop of Russia’s

invasion of Ukraine and the chaos in the Middle East. “These developments flagrantly disregard the lessons the international community should have learned from the tragedies of history,” he said. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said it was Japan’s mission “to take the lead... toward a world without nuclear weapons.” The final death toll of the Hiroshima attack would hit around 140,000 people, killed not just by the colossal blast and the ball of fire, but also later by the radiation. Three days after “Little Boy,” on Aug. 9, another atomic bomb killed 74,000

people in Nagasaki. Imperial Japan surrendered on Aug. 15, bringing an end to World War II. Today, Hiroshima is a thriving metropolis of 1.2 million but the attacks live on in the memories of many. On the eve of the ceremony, people began lining up to pay their respects to the victims in front of the cenotaph. Before dawn on Wednesday, families who lost loved ones in the attack also came to pray. Yoshie Yokoyama, 96, who arrived in a wheelchair with her grandson, told reporters that her parents and grandparents were bomb victims.

IN BRIEF

Cathay Pacific unveils deal for 14 Boeing jets HONG KONG – Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific said Wednesday it would place an US$8.1-billion order for 14 Boeing jets, its first with the US aircraft maker for more than a decade. In a filing to the city’s stock exchange, the airline said it would “purchase 14 Boeing 777-9 aircraft” and had “secured the right to acquire up to seven additional Boeing 777-9 aircraft.” Cathay already has a fleet of more than 230 mostly passenger aircraft. The new order expects the aircraft to be delivered by 2034, according to a separate filing. Cathay was one of the first buyers to commit to Boeing’s 777X program when it unveiled the purchase of 21 aircraft in 2013. Boeing said in a statement the new deal brought the order book of 777-9 aircraft -- “the world’s largest twinengine airplane” -- to 35. The jets, designed to reduce fuel use and emissions, would meet Cathay’s growing global travel demand, Boeing added. Hong Kong’s aviation sector was hit hard by COVID -era policies, which imposed strict rules on travelers that kept it internationally isolated before they were lifted in late 2022. In 2024 Cathay’s attributable profit rose slightly to US$1.27 billion and it announced earlier this year that its flights were finally back to pre-pandemic levels. On Wednesday, the firm reported its attributable profit rose slightly to HK$3.65 billion (US$4.65 million) in the first six months of 2025, benefiting from a pick-up in travel demand in Asia. Total revenue in that period increased 9.5 percent to US$6.92 billion.AFP

Activist nabbed ahead of migrant march

COLOSSAL BLAST. Invited guests carry bouquets of flowers to lay at the Memorial Cenotaph during the Peace Memorial Ceremony to mark the 80th anniversary of the world’s first atomic bomb attack, in the city of Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 2025. Pope Leo XIV said in a statement that ‘in our time of mounting global tensions and conflicts,’ Hiroshima and Nagasaki remained ‘living reminders of the profound horrors wrought by nuclear weapons.’ AFP

Witkoff arrives in Russia ahead of deadline MOSCOW – US envoy Steve Witkoff arrived in Moscow on Wednesday, state media reported, where he will meet with Russian leadership as President Donald Trump’s deadline to impose fresh sanctions over Russia’s offensive on Ukraine looms. In Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday urged Washington to ramp up pressure on Russia to end its invasion during a visit to Moscow by US envoy Steve Witkoff. “It is very important to strengthen all the levers in the arsenal of the United States, Europe, and the G7 so that a cease-

fire truly comes into effect immediately. Ukraine sees the political will, appreciates the efforts of our partners, of America, and of everyone who is helping,” Zelenskyy wrote on social media. Trump has given Russia until Friday to halt its military campaign or face new penalties. Ukrainian officials meanwhile reported Wednesday at least two people were killed and 10 others wounded overnight in Russian shelling of the Zaporizhzhia region. The White House has not outlined specific actions it plans to take on Friday,

but Trump has previously threatened to impose “secondary tariffs” targeting Russia’s remaining trade partners, such as China and India. The move would aim to stifle Russian exports, but would risk significant international disruption. Trump said Tuesday that he would await the outcome of the Moscow talks before moving forward with any economic retaliation. “We’re going to see what happens,” he told reporters. “We’ll make that determination at that time.” AFP

SoKor prosecutors question ex-first lady accused of graft SEOUL – South Korean prosecutors questioned former first lady Kim Keon Hee on Wednesday over a litany of allegations, including stock manipulation and bribery. The questioning comes as her husband, former president Yoon Suk Yeol, remains in detention over his declaration of martial law in December, which briefly suspended civilian rule before being overturned by parliament. Prosecutors are expected to seek an arrest warrant for Kim following Wednesday’s interrogation, which they said began shortly after 10:00 am. If granted, the warrant would mark the first time in South Korean history that a former president and first lady were both arrested. Kim is accused of colluding with

“My grandfather died soon after the bombing, while my father and mother both died after developing cancer. My parents-in-law also died, so my husband couldn’t see them again when he came back from battlefields after the war. “People are still suffering,” she added. Wednesday’s ceremony was set to include a record of around 120 countries and regions including, for the first time, Taiwanese and Palestinian representatives. The United States -- which has never formally apologised for the bombings -was represented by its ambassador to Japan. Russia and China were absent. AFP

traders to inflate the share price of a company between 2009 and 2012. She also allegedly accepted luxury gifts, including a $2,200 designer handbag, in violation of anti-graft laws. “I sincerely apologize for causing trouble despite being a person of no importance. I will cooperate fully with the investigation,” Kim said before entering the special prosecutor’s office in Seoul. Kim’s questioning drew significant media attention, with local journalists following the vehicle she was in as it made its way to the prosecutors’ office on Wednesday. Supporters of Kim and Yoon gathered outside the office, waving national flags and holding signs that read “Investigators must be fair”. AFP

TUXTLA GUTIERREZ, Mexico – An activist known for leading massive migrant marches across Mexico to the US border -- and had planned one for Wednesday -was detained Tuesday in southern Mexico, security officials said. Luis Garcia Villagran was arrested and held in Tapachula, in the southern state of Chiapas, where the march had planned to depart for Mexico City on Wednesday (Thursday Manila time). The NGO Pueblos Sin Fronteras (People Without Borders) said the purpose of the march was to demand swift processing of paperwork for foreigners stranded in southern Mexico. Pueblos Sin Fronteras director Irineo Mujica demanded Garcia Villagran’s release, saying in a statement that he faces charges of organized crime. The NGO said Garcia Villagran was detained by federal agents after meeting with migrants who planned to participate in the march. The prosecutor’s office did not immediately respond to a request for confirmation of the detention, charges or other details from AFP. AFP

Australia watchdog: Tech giants turning ‘blind eye’ SYDNEY – Australia’s online watchdog accused tech giants including Apple and Google on Wednesday of “turning a blind eye” to child sex abuse material shared on their platforms. The eSafety Commission found that Apple and video streaming site YouTube -- owned by Google -- did not track the number of user reports they received about child sexual abuse, nor did they outline how long it took to respond to these reports. “When left to their own devices, these companies aren’t prioritizing the protection of children and are seemingly turning a blind eye to crimes occurring on their services,” eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said. She added that tech companies had not “taken many steps to lift and improve their efforts” since she asked them three years ago. AFP

Anti-discrimination MP refuses to ‘shut up’

APOLOGETIC KIM. South Korea’s former first lady Kim Keon Hee (center), wife of impeached former president Yoon Suk Yeol, arrives at the special prosecutor’s office in Seoul on Wednesday. Kim Keon Hee appeared for questioning by prosecutors over a litany of allegations, including stock manipulation and bribery. Supporters of Kim and Yoon gathered outside the office, waving national flags and holding signs that read ‘Investigators must be fair.’ AFP

TOKYO – A Japanese politician who campaigns against discrimination is refusing to “shut up” after her local assembly passed a motion requesting that she stop posting on social media with her official title. Megumi Fukushima, an independent lawmaker in the city assembly of Tsurugashima, northwest of Tokyo, has denounced prejudice against immigrants and women on X and other platforms. This has included criticizing the rightwing “Japanese first” Sanseito party, which did well in last month’s upper house elections. But her comments have prompted dozens of complaints from the public to the assembly, as well as a message on the city’s website threatening to kill Fukushima and bomb city hall. The city assembly passed the motion on Monday after she rejected a request from the chairperson to stop posting on social media with her official title. AFP

Undocumented migrants on brink of homelessness

BREWING STORM. US Attorney General Pam Bondi (center) reacts as President Donald Trump hands her a pen after signing an executive order in the South Court Auditorium in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on Qwednesday, Manila time, in Washington, DC. The executive order creates a White House task force to help coordinate logistical issues related to the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles including security, visas for athletes and coaches and transportation. AFP

LOS ANGELES – When her husband was arrested in an immigration raid near Los Angeles last month, Martha was abruptly separated from the father of her two daughters. But she also lost the salary that allowed her to keep a roof over their heads. “He’s the pillar of the family... he was the only one working,” said the undocumented woman, using a pseudonym for fear of reprisals. “He’s no longer here to help us, to support me and my daughters.” Los Angeles, where one-third of residents are immigrants -- and several hundred thousand people are undocumented -- has been destabilized by intensifying government Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids. Since returning to power, US President Donald Trump has delivered on promises to launch a wide-ranging deportation drive, targeting undocumented migrants but also ensnaring many others in its net.

After her husband’s arrest, 39-year-old Martha joined the ranks of people barely managing to avoid ending up on the streets of Los Angeles County -- a region with prohibitively high housing prices, and the largest number of homeless people in the United States outside New York. Her 700-square-foot apartment in Buena Park, a suburb of the California metropolis, costs $2,050 per month. After her husband’s arrest, she urgently found a minimum-wage night job in a factory to cover their most pressing needs. It pays just enough to keep them afloat, but has left Martha unable to cover a range of obligations. “I have to pay car insurance, phone, rent, and their expenses,” she said, pointing to her daughters, aged six and seven, who need school supplies for the new academic year. “That’s a lot of expenses.” How long can she keep up this punishing schedule, which allows her barely

three hours of sleep on returning from the factory before having to wake and look after her daughters? “I couldn’t tell you,” she said, staring blankly into space. Los Angeles has seen some of the worst of the ICE raids. Squads of masked agents have targeted hardware stores, car washes and bus stops, arresting more than 2,200 people in June. About 60 percent of these had no prior criminal records, according to internal ICE documents analyzed by AFP. Trump’s anti-immigration offensive is taking an added toll on Latino workers, who were already among the worst-affected victims of the region’s housing crisis, said Andrea Gonzalez, deputy director of the CLEAN Carwash Workers Center, a labor rights non-profit. “A bigger storm is brewing. It’s not just about the people that got picked up, it’s about the people that are left behind as well,” she said. AFP

SPORTS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025

Naomi Osaka of Japan plays a forehand against Elina Svitolina of Ukraine during their quarterfinals singles women’s match on Day 10 of the WTA 1000 National Bank Open at IGA Stadium in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. AFP

‘25 Chengdu World Games unwraps today CHENGDU—Colors of different nations come in one piece, all revelling on a backdrop of cultural display and Chinese modernity as the 2025 World Games unwraps Thursday evening at the Tianfu International Convention Centre. Wushu star Agatha Wong and cable wakeboard sensation Raph Trinidad will lead the Philippine contingent in the opening parade that will highlight the ceremony advertised as an extravagant show of heritage and innovation in an urban setting. Set at 8 p.m., the organizers veered away from staging the opening in a stadium and will instead take the participants on the wooden eaves of a massive gallery, creating an open-air vibe with the massive Qinhuang lake on the side giving a natural charm. Chef de Mission Stephen Arapoc will join the flag bearers along with the other Filipino athletes in Chengdu who are all encouraged to take part in the festivities barring any conflict on arrival or training. “I am excited because it is my first time in an opening ceremony. I just want myself to enjoy and live throughout the experience,” Wong said. From there, the Philippine representatives, supported by the Philippine Olympic Committee headed by President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, will see a unique torch-lighting ceremony on the waters, with local Chinese bets passing the torch through a motorboat and skiers completing the ignition, a three-part fireworks display, and all the dramatic Sichuan-style performances to end the night. Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick Gregorio is expected to watch from the spectators row, along with prominent Chinese officials and World Games executives led by President Jose Perurena Lopez. Providing the inspiration of the day is the men’s floorball team which is plunging into action against Latvia at 9 a.m. at the Xindu Xiangcheng Sports Centre.

Sizzling Osaka faces Tauson in Canadian Open semifinals

ONTREAL—Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka advanced to the semi-finals of the WTA Canadian Open on Tuesday with a comprehensive 6-2, 6-2 triumph over 10th seed Elina Svitolina. Osaka, chasing her first WTA Tourlevel title since the 2021 Australian Open, needed only 68 minutes to dispatch the Ukraine star and book a Wednesday semi-final with Danish 16th seed Clara Tauson, who stunned reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys 6-1, 6-4. “I’m just having a lot of fun playing. I’m glad to be here,” Osaka said. “I think I’ll be seeded in the US Open because I won my match. That was a really good goal for me. I’m just really excited.”

Tauson dedicated her victory to her late grandfather, who died on Sunday as the Dane was dispatching Polish second seed Iga Swiatek, who won her sixth Grand Slam title last month at Wimbledon. “Two days ago, my grandfather unfortunately passed away so I really wanted to win for him today,” a tearful Tauson said after beating US sixth seed Keys. “I was told the day after I beat Iga so I really wanted to come out and show my best tennis for him.

Hopefully he’s watching.” The US Open hardcourt tuneup in Montreal is the first event where Tauson has beaten two top-10 foes, with Swiatek and Keys exiting at her hand. Tauson dominated the opening set and took full advantage of Keys giving up a break on a double fault to open the second. The Dane won 12 of 19 points on her second serves and kept Keys at bay most of the night. Keys joined a scrap heap of Montreal seeds, with the top five seeds and seven of the top 10 seeds ousted before the quarter-finals. Tauson, 22, seeks her fourth career WTA title after the 2021 Lyon and Luxenbourg Opens and this year’s Auckland Open, where Osaka retired after winning the first set of the final in their only WTA meeting. AFP

Elite women stars face-off in IM 70.3 Lapu-Lapu test Sam Kingsford

WOMEN’S power takes center stage alongside the men’s elite as a stellar field of female triathletes gear up for a high-octane battle of speed, strength and strategy in the IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu presented by Megaworldm which reels off on Sunday (Aug. 10), at the scenic yet unforgiving course in Mactan Newtown, Cebu. New Zealand’s Sam Kingsford enters as the woman to beat, drawing confidence from her eight years of professional racing experience and a solid fourthplace finish here last year. Her no-frills mantra – “no hero days, just be consistent and smart” – underscores her methodical approach as she eyes a breakthrough victory on Philippine soil. But the Kiwi ace won’t have it easy. A stacked cast of elite contenders promises to turn the women’s pro race

into a possible grudge match, with a number of rivals all capable of stealing the spotlight. The showdown is shaping up to be more than just a test of endurance – it’s a mental clash over 1.9km of swimming, 90km of cycling, and 21km of running through sun-drenched roads and crosswinds. Leading the challenge are Australia’s Lauren Hume, Sophie Malowiecki, and Sarah Thomas, as well as fellow New Zealanders Paige Carnage and Amelia Watkinson – each bringing a unique edge, battle-tested credentials and mental tenacity to the fray. Organized by Sunrise Events, Inc. and supported by Mactan Newtown, the IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu has earned its status as the premier half-distance triathlon in the country – and this year’s edition looks set to raise the bar

For details, visit ironman.com/races/ im703-cebu-philippines/register. Hume, a double winner in Cairns and Port Macquarie, thrives under pressure but maintains a relaxed, almost meditative mindset. “It’s just another training day,” she said, a calm philosophy that belies her fierce competitive fire. Her presence adds fuel to a potential Hume vs Kingsford rivalry – two strong, determined athletes with unfinished business. Malowiecki, the Sunshine Coast runner-up last year, is a model of composure. Her race-day mindset – “run your own race and don’t get distracted” – makes her a dark horse in the field. Her consistency and ability to stay calm under pressure could be the difference-maker, especially in the final kilometers of the run.

Corpus grinds a 69 to lead at ICTSI Caliraya CAVINTI, Laguna—Carl Corpus upstaged veteran Angelo Que in their much-anticipated showdown – albeit in separate flights – at the ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship Wednesday, showing admirable resolve and composure in the closing stretch to shoot a 69 and wrest solo control in the race for the Philippine Golf Tour crown here. Steadying himself after a rollercoaster front nine, Corpus toughened up when it mattered most. He fired a clutch two-birdie finish in his last nine holes for a gutsy 35-34 under darkening skies, edging past Que and the rest of the field with a nine-under 135 aggregate. The young gun’s gritty stand mirrored the poise and maturity of a seasoned pro, further validating his breakout triumph on the Asian Development Tour in Morocco last June. Though far from flawless, Corpus’ ability to grind, stay in the moment, and trust his process has moved him closer to a maiden PGT victory. “I struck the ball better yesterday (Tuesday),” said Corpus, whose impressive opening 66 earned him a share of the Day 1 lead with Que. “I prepared and executed the same way today, but I had a few errant shots and less solid executions.” Still, Corpus found a way to hang tough. He birdied three holes, but two bogeys on the front nine stalled his momentum. Undeterred, he reminded himself to dig deep in the back nine. “I told myself not to dwell on mistakes and to focus on what I could still do right. I just needed to make a strong backnine charge. I was able to make more putts and finish strong,” said Corpus, who birdied Nos. 12 and 15 to close with a solid 34. As Corpus firmed up his title bid, Que faltered in the end. A mis-hit drive and an overshot approach on the 18th led to a bogey and a second-round 70, pushing the seasoned campaigner down to joint second at 136. “I hit it better today than yesterday but putted worse,” rued Que. “I know I still shot two-under but it could’ve easily gone very low. I just missed a lot of putts.” The three-time Asian Tour champion, however, remained upbeat: “But it is what it is. Hopefully I can sort out the putting tomorrow.” Tied with Que are Jhonnel Ababa and Korean Ji Sung Cheon, who both delivered strong rounds to get into the title mix. Ababa, a former Order of Merit winner, rebounded from an early slip to card an eagle-spiked 67. He rediscovered his putting touch and knocked in birdies on Nos. 6, 10, 15 and 18. “I struggled with my putting in the first round, but today everything clicked – driving, irons and putting,” said the Davaoeño ace, who last won at Apo Golf in a playoff over Guido van der Valk.

FESSAP continues efforts to showcase PH university athletes’ talent to international arena By Graham C. Lim BERLIN, Germany—The Philippines, led by National University (NU) and Mapua University, has once again etched its name in the annals of global university sports, showcasing the prowess of Filipino student-athletes at the prestigious FISU World University Games (WUG) recently in both Dusseldorf and Berlin. The Bulldogs secured their coveted spot after dominating the Philippine University Volleyball League (PUVL), while the Cardinals made the cut for topping the Philippine University Basketball League (PUBL), the rigorous qualifying tournaments organized by the Federation of School Sports Association of the Philippines (FESSAP). The Bulldogs and the Cardinals led the Philippine delegation to the WUG, also known as the World Summer Universiade. Mary G. Ng, the president of Philippine Inter-School Sport Association (PISSA), recognized by the International School Sport Federation (ISF), was the head of the Philippine Delegation, with business tycoon Frank Lao, as her deputy. Both Ng and Lao have supported FESSAP’s international activities and program through the years, energizing the FESSAP group with their support. Also lending their backing to the delegation were the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), LT Group Inc., Philippine Airlines (PAL), BESTANK Manufacturing Corporation, ASICS Tiger apparel, KELME Sportswear, Healthy Options, Seascape Village, LIME Resort & Hotel, Burlington Socks, PADDOCK’s Casual Jeans, OMNI Electrical & Lighting, Megaworld Property, and HENN Athletic Club.

The NU Bulldogs at the World University Games Bulldogs and Cardinals shock the field Despite facing an initial uphill battle with back-to-back losses against powerhouse Poland (July 17) and Colombia (July 18) in straight sets, the undermanned NU Bulldogs showed remarkable resilience and determination when they notched their first-ever Universiade victory on July 19 – a stunning 3-1 triumph over Argentina (25-23, 25-22, 23-25, 25-13). Their journey continued in the classification round for 9th to 16th place. Though they fell to Portugal, the Bulldogs once again dug deep, pulling off a gritty 3-1 victory against Chile to remain in contention for 13th place. The team ultimately finished 14th overall after a hard-fought rematch against Argentina. Even the Cardinals joined in the fray with a sweet 77-69 victory over Chile in the classification round. National University has long been a powerhouse in Philippine collegiate sports, particularly in volleyball, thanks to the partnership of team manager

Dennis “Jun” Abcede Jr. and coach Dante Alinsunurin Jr. “Masaya kami ni coach, dahil natuloy din ‘yung pangarap naming sumali sa World University Games,” said Abcede, whose dream of putting NU in the world’s volleyball sports map began when the Bulldogs came out of nowhere to stun the region’s powerhouses Thailand and Malaysia in winning the 2018 ASEAN University Games in Myanmar. It was FESSAP, of course that paved the way for NU’s rise as a collegiate volleyball power in the region. In the Universiade, NU was the only Southeast Asian team in the playing field. FESAAP opened the door for NU, the same opening its Honorary Life President David Ong wants accorded to the University of the East. An opportunity for UE Ong, who is also PAL director, is knocking on UE’s door to take part in FESSAP’s sports activities, not only in basketball or volleyball, but in other disciplines too, such as athletics,

badminton, beach volleyball, table tennis and many more. “As an educational institution with a terrific sports program, UE has produced some of the country’s best athletes. I know many of its athletes can shine in the world stage,” said Ong, whose plan is firmly backed by FESSAP president Edwin C. Fabro. “If UE wants to join the FESSAP family, we would gladly welcome them to our fold,” said Fabro. FESSAP marches on FESSAP’s participation in the Universiade has reaped outstanding results. Wesley So announced his name to the chess world during the 2013 Summer Universiade (Kazan, Russia), where the then rising chess prodigy, secured the Philippines’ first-ever gold medal in the games. In the 2019 Universiade in Naples, Italy, Ernest John Obiena, now a world-class pole vaulter, showcased his immense talent by winning the gold. Other noteworthy results came from taekwondo jin Samuel Morrison, who

bagged the silver in the Men’s 63 kg. of the 2011 Summer Universiade (Shenzhen, China); and Jomar Balangui, who bagged a silver in the Wushu - Men’s 52 kg Sanda of the 2017 Summer Universiade in Taipei. The World University Games provide a crucial platform for Filipino student-athletes to gain international exposure and compete against some of the best university athletes worldwide. And with Ong, Fabro, Board Chairman Alvin Tai Lian, Honorary Life VP Christian D. Tan, Executive VP Prof. Robert Milton Calo Vice Chairman Atty. Baldomero Estenzo, Vice President Felix Tiukinhoy of Cebu, legal adviser Atty. Maria Luz Arzaga Mendoza, together hardworking staff Cecille Sarmiento, Allan Soria, Joseph Sy, Fructuoso Raytos, Diane Sarmiento, Graham Lim Jr., Emer Matienzo, Patricia Lopez, Romulo Raytos, Albert Andaya, Raquel Padilla, Red Dumuk and Antonio Quiza, FESSAP will continue buckling down to business in its efforts to show the Philippines’ world-class talent in sports. Deputy PH delegation chief Frank Lao (3rd from left) with FESSAP Board Chairman Alvin Tai Lian (2nd from left), Honorary Life president David Ong (left) and Graham Lim (right)

SPORTS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

PH champ Bautista on track for SEA Games’ slot By Peter Atencio REIGNING national champion Maxine Bautista felt she did much better this time around as she landed 11th place overall on Tuesday evening at the close of the Asian Open Figure Skating Trophy 2025. Performing to the tune of the Gladiator movie’s theme song, “Now We Are Free”, Bautista got a total score of 105.69 following the end of the free skates’ event of the senior women’s action at the Mall of Asia Skating Rink. “This is definitely better than (what I did in) the short program,” said the 24-year-old Bautista, who is based in Chicago, Illinois. This put her in contention for a slot in the Philippine national team being assembled for the Southeast Asian Games. “I’m happy about this. This is definitely an improvement,” added Bautista. Bautista became the second highestfinishing skater from the SEA region, after Malaysian Audrey Lee took ninth place with her total of 108.99 point. Lee got her score from her 13th-place finish in the short program, after landing in eighth position in the free skates. Boston-based Cathryn Limketkai, who was ahead of Bautista in the short program at ninth, finished at 12th with 105.03 points and is also a contender for a seat in the SEA Games-bound national squad. China came up with a 1-2-3 finish for the gold, silver and bronze medals, with Ruiyang Zheng topping the senior women’s side with her tally of 168.41, after climbing from second in short program to no. 1 in the free skates. Yi Zhu, who was leading, dropped to no. 2 with her aggregate of 160.63, while Wandi Xu is at third with 142.86 points. Los Angeles, California-based Paolo Borromeo was running second in the short program when he ran into trouble in Tuesday’s free-skating action. “I think I was a bit nervous because I wanted it too much. But, it’s okay,” said the 26-year-old Borromeo, who has been competing in locally-organized meet for the last three years.

Maxine Bautista performs her routine during the Asian Open Figure Skating Trophy 2025.

Baguhin stays in contention for gold; 2 injured boxers out By Randy M. Caluag

ILIPINO boxers Mark Ashley Fajardo and Ronel Suyom were forced to withdraw from their respective semifinal bouts in the Asian Boxing U19 & U22 Championships in Bangkok, Thailand, due to injuries sustained in earlier matches.

Fajardo, competing in the men’s welterweight (65kg) division, suffered a left-hand injury during his preliminary round bout, rendering him unfit to continue in the semifinals. Despite the setback, the young pugilist will take home a bronze medal for his efforts. He became the second Filipino to pull out of the tour nament after Ronel Suyom, who earlier announced his withdrawal from

Ronel Suyom

PH Cup Finals’ MVP Cruz to suit up for Guam quintet in FIBA Asia Cup By Peter Atencio GUAM is making its FIBA Asia Cup debut with 49th Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup finals’ MVP Jericho Cruz suiting up for the team. The Guamanians are bracketed separately from Gilas Pilipinas and are in Group B with Japan, Iran and Syria. “To be able to play in the FIBA Asia Cup, malaking history ‘yun ika nga. Sana kahit maka-isang panalo kami para another history for us,” said Cruz, who recently helped the San Miguel Beermen win Philippine Cup honors. This time, Guam has reached the tournament proper, after falling just short of reaching the 2022 contest, fol-

the men’s bantamweight (55kg) U22 semif inal match against Mongolia’s Durguunsaikhan Kharkhuu. Suyom sustained a cut above his left eyebrow during his quarterf inal clash with China’s Shaoqing Li. Following medical evaluation, the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP), in consultation with the team’s doctor, decided to pull Suyom out

Jericho Cruz

lowing a loss to Chinese Taipei in the qualifiers. The world no. 88 Guam, which is many rungs lower than the Philippines’ no. 34 FIBA rankings, will be meeting Iran in their opening game in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. “Napakasarap ng feeling kasi du’n ako lumaki. At the same time, maliit lang ang population namin at wala kaming pro league doon,” he said. Cruz, who was born Pasig City but was raised by his parents in Saipan when they migrated there, will be in the company of teammates Alexander Kamai, Mark Johnson Jr. and Jonathan Galloway. Iran and Japan are considered contenders in their bracket. The team that finishes no. 1 in the pool will head straight to the quarterfinals.

Ababa, Ikeda, Superal in fiery showdown for Caliraya crown CAVINTI, Laguna – Sarah Ababa salvaged a crucial birdie on the 18th to cap a tumultuous round of 70 and regain a share of the lead alongside a resurgent Chihiro Ikeda and a steady Princess Superal, setting up a thrilling finale in the P1 million ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship here Wednesday. Ababa, who opened with a 70 at Caliraya Springs’ Arnold Palmer-designed layout, endured a rollercoaster second round marked by superb iron play and marred by some costly errors but closed strong with a clutch nine-footer for birdie to card a second straight twounder card and stay at the helm at 140. Ikeda, meanwhile, turned back the clock with a vintage performance. After stumbling out of the gates with a double bogey on the par-4 second hole, the former Order of Merit winner mounted a spectacular rally, reeling off six birdies in a 10-hole stretch, including a pair on Nos. 10 and 11, to seize the solo lead. She added another on the 16th to go five-under for the round but faltered late, bogeying the 17th to settle for a 68

Sarah Ababa sets the tone with a birdie to open her round. Manny Marcelo

and a share of the top spot. Superal also stayed firmly in the mix with a composed 69, negating a lone mishap on No. 13 with four birdies, including a key conversion on the 15th.

Her improved putting made the difference, as she parred the last two holes – where she faltered in the first round – to complete a 34-35 card and keep pace with her longtime friends and rivals.

With all three tied at 140 heading into the final round, the stage is set for a frenetic battle among veterans who have long figured in the local circuit’s biggest moments. “I’m happy with my iron shots. I hit 17 greens today,” said Ababa, who also led after the first round and is eyeing another Ladies Philippine Golf Tour victory following her triumph in Iloilo last year. “I had a few three-putts but that birdie on the 18th gave me a boost. There’s no pressure going into tomorrow, especially since I’ll be playing with friends. I’ll just enjoy the game.” Ikeda echoed a similar mindset after her stirring comeback. “I just reminded myself there were still a lot of holes to play,” said the former multiple-leg winner, who missed a chance to seal the Lakewood Championship last year. “My irons were sharper today and the putts kept falling.” Now, she gets another shot at redemption, this time in a three-way battle with two of the tour’s most decorated players.

of the semifinals to prevent further aggravating the injury. Like Fajardo, Suyom will settle for a bronze medal finish. With both male boxers sidelined, the country’s gold medal hopes now rest on the shoulders of lady flyweight Xian Baguhin. The young fighter displayed grit and determination, scoring a hard-fought split-decision victory over Japan’s Moena Kashiwada in the women’s 51kg division to secure at least a bronze medal and a shot at advancing further in the tournament. Baguhin’s triumph added to the Philippines’ growing medal tally in Bangkok, following the assured podium finishes of Fajardo and Suyom in their respective weight classes. Ronel Suyom cut above the left eye.

Quiambao bright spot for Gilas PH KEVIN Quiambao provided a bright spot for the Gilas Pilipinas after the foul-troubled national men’s team fell in an 87-95 setback to Chinese Taipei on Wednesday morning. Quiambao, filling in for the foulshackled Justin Brownlee, struck with 17 points, putting up 10 straight points during a crucial moment of their losing encounter at the start of their 2025 FIBA Asia Cup campaign at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. “He (Quiambao) came out. He came out with a lot of energy and took some big shots. But still we came up short,” said Gilas coach Tim Cone in the postgame presser. The 6”5’ Quiambao, a Goyang Sono Skygunners import in the Korean Basketball League, struck with 13 points in the final frame, with his jumper in the final 57.3 seconds, allowing Gilas stay within range, 83-90. Brownlee left the court on five fouls in the last 4:51 and Team Philippines struggled to catch up after trimming the Taiwanese cagers lead down to six points. “We were playing from our heel. We were trying to rush back into the game, and took a lot of ill-advised shots, ill-advised fouls. But, in terms of how Kevin played, Kevin played very, very Kevin well,” added Quiambao Cone.

BUSINESS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025

extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

WHAT’S INSIDE?

SWITCHED-ON. Department

of Energy (DOE) Secretary Sharon Garin (second from left) joins a group celebrating the inauguration on Aug. 1 of the 22-megawatt (MW) Tanawon geothermal power plant at the BaconManito (BacMan) geothermal complex of Energy Development Corp. (EDC) in Sorsogon City. With the DOE chief are (from left) Jerome Cainglet, EDC president; Victor Emmanuel Santos Jr., EDC executive vice president; Ester Hamor, Sorsogon City mayor; Marie Bernadette Guevara EscuderoQuirante, representative of the First District of Sorsogon; and Francis Giles Puno, EDC vice chairman and chief executive. EDC is a subsidiary of Lopez-led clean energy provider First Gen Corporation. The P7-billion Tanawon geothermal facility is one of seven growth projects that First Gen and EDC are pursuing together to help the country attain energy security.

ALI readies P57-b projects in 2nd half

Paintplas investing P350m in Batangas

Cebu Pacific’s profit soars 153%

Farm production rebounded 5.7% in second quarter

GSIS backs Senate probe on gaming investment T HE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) said Thursday it fully supports transparency and accountability in all its investment activities and will cooperate with oversight and regulatory bodies investigating its investment in online gaming firm DigiPlus Interactive Corp. The pension fund issued the statement after Senator Risa Hontiveros revealed the GSIS had allegedly invested more than P1 billion of its funds in online gambling. Senator Erwin Tulfo, chairperson of the Committee on Games and Amusement, said his panel would investigate the GSIS’s P1 billion investment. Tulfo also expressed “strong disappointment to the GSIS leadership for disregarding the hard work of government employees and investing their

hard-earned money and contributions in online gambling”. The GSIS did not confirm how much it invested in DigiPlus, but said it welcomes the scrutiny and calls for public disclosure from various sectors. “We are prepared to present all relevant documents and data to the appropriate authorities,” the fund said. “As stewards of public trust, we affirm our unwavering commitment to act in the best interests of our mem-

By Othel V. Campos PHILIPPINE farm output expanded by 5.7 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2025, buoyed by a record harvest in rice and corn, according to data released Wednesday by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The total value of production in the sector reached P437.53 billion, recovering from a 3.2-percent contraction in the same period last year. The growth was led by strong performance in the crops and poultry subsectors, which offset declines in livestock and fisheries. Crops, which account for 56 percent of the total agri-fisheries output, grew 11.3 percent to P244.9 billion, with palay (unmilled rice) and corn posting double-digit increases of 13.9 percent and 27.3 percent, respectively. “This is good news for the agrisector. The growth was driven mainly by the crops and poultry subsectors,” said Department of Agriculture assistant secretary Arnel de Mesa, citing improved weather conditions and continued government interventions. The poultry subsector rose 7 percent to P75.07 billion, contributing over 17 percent to the total output. Broiler chicken and chicken eggs led the gains, growing 8.2 percent and 4.8 percent, respectively. Meanwhile, the livestock subsector saw a 5.9-percent decline in value, down to P59.60 billion, with hog production contracting 7.5 percent.

bers and pensioners.” The GSIS also assured its members, pensioners, and the public that its social insurance fund remains strong, secure and actuarially sound. “As of June 2025, GSIS has total assets of P1.88 trillion and recorded a net operating income of P76.82 billion, representing a 31-percent increase compared to the same period last year. We have consistently enjoyed a five-year average return on investments at 6.75 percent,” it said. “Still, we recognize that public trust must be continuously earned,” the GSIS said. The GSIS said it would continue to review its charter, investment policies, risk exposure thresholds and sectoral guidelines, particularly those involving sensitive or high-risk industries.

PRODUCT CERTIFICATION.

Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque discuss the growing demand for government certification on the safety and quality of more retail products during their meeting on July 31, 2025. The standardization, inspection and certification of products offered to the public are undertaken by the DTI-Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTIBPS), in line with Republic Act (RA) No. 4109 or the Standards Law and RA No. 7394 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines. Source: DBM’s Facebook page

SM Investments’ first-half income rose 6% to P42.6b By Jenniffer B. Austria SM INVESTMENTS Corp., (SMIC), the listed holding company of Sy family, recorded a 6-percent increase in consolidated net income to P42.6 billion in the first half of 2025 from a year ago, as improving macroeconomic environment boosted the growth of core banking, retail and property businesses. Six-month revenue also rose 6 percent to P319.2 billion from P301.4 billion in the first half of 2024, SMIC said in a disclosure to the stock ex-

change Wednesday. “We continue to see steady growth across our core businesses, supported by favorable macroeconomic conditions in the Philippines,” said SMIC president and chief executive Frederic DyBuncio. “Bank lending remains strong, and consumer spending in our malls and retail stores continues to rise,” he said. The conglomerate’s banking business contributed the largest share of earnings at 50 percent followed by property, which accounted for 28 per-

cent and retail by 15 percent. Portfolio investments, which include Philippine Geothermal Production Company, NEO and 2GO Group Inc., contributed 7 percent to net earnings. Banking units BDO Unibank Inc and China Banking Corp. earlier reported higher profits in the first semester. BDO posted a 3-percent rise in net income to P40.6 billion on the back of 7-percent increase in net interest income and a 14-percent growth in gross customer loans.

Electricity spot prices increased in July—IEMOP By Alena Mae S. Flores

INVESTMENT BRIEFING. The Board of Investments (BOI) conducts an in-depth investment briefing for senior officials and project finance controllers of SM Investments Corp. (SMIC), one of the country’s largest conglomerates, to provide updates on the Philippine investment landscape, tax incentives, registration processes and compliance requirements. About 30 participants from SMIC attended the one-onone briefing and asked questions at Lanson Place, Mall of Asia on July 17, 2025.

AVERAGE system-wide prices at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) rose slightly to P3.99 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in July from P3.86 per kWh in June on lower supply margins. “Based on the data…there was a slight increase in prices… because we are in this period where we have plant outages,” said Isidro Cacho Jr., vice president for trading operations of the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) in a briefing. He said power plants moved their maintenance schedules to after the election period, having not conducted

them during the summer. According to IEMOP, the systemwide average supply for June 26 to July 25, 2025, decreased 3.2 percent to 20,754 megawatts (MW) from June. This was mainly due to major plant outages in Luzon, including mostly cheaper power sources such as GNPower Dinginin, Ilijan gas, Quezon Power, and San Gabriel units during the first and second week of the billing period. IEMOP also reported that demand fell to 13,812 MW, a 5-percent decline, driven by cooler temperatures and the onset of the rainy season. Similar conditions were observed across the regions.

Over P1 billion Alleged GSIS investment in DigiPlus

P1.88 trillion Total assets of GSIS

P76.82 billion GSIS operating income as of June 2025

Unemployment climbed to 3.7% in June, says PSA By Thony Rose Lesaca THE Philippines’ unemployment rate climbed to 3.7 percent in June from 3.1 percent in the same month last year, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Wednesday. Data showed that the number of unemployed Filipinos reached 1.95 million as of June 2025, higher than 1.62 million in June 2024 but lower than 2.03 million in May 2025. PSA assistant secretary Divina Gracia Del Prado attributed the yearon-year increase to the number of Filipinos looking for work and waiting to be rehired or for a job recall. “When we say unemployed, this refers to those who are currently without work, but are available to work and looking for work. It can also be that they are not looking [for work] for some reason, but the biggest reason of the currently unemployed year-on-year, [is] there is a large number of people looking for work,” said Del Prado. The June jobless rate was, however, lower than the 3.9 percent recorded in May. The underemployment rate, which measures those working less than 40 hours a week who want more work, dropped to 11.4 percent in June from 12.1 percent a year earlier and 13.1 percent in May. This translates to 5.76 million of the 50.47 million employed people wanting to work more hours. The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) welcomed these findings, saying the labor market sustained a strong performance in June that reflected improved accessibility to employment opportunities. “The numbers show that our efforts are bearing fruit, but more work lies ahead. We must accelerate structural reforms to make our labor market more inclusive, competitive, and resilient. Through sustained collaboration and innovation, we aim not just to create more jobs, but to sustain improvements in the lives of all Filipinos,” said DEPDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan in a statement.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025

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PH stocks rise, peso strengthens as rate-cut hopes grow amid lower inflation rate in July THE Philippine stock market closed higher Wednesday amid growing hopes of a possible rate cut this month after a better-than-expected July inflation rate. Manila Manila The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange Manila Standard Standard index jumped 17.02 points, or 0.27 percent, to Standard TODAY TODAY 6,370.65. The broader all shares index improved TODAY by 9.02 points, or 0.24 percent, to 3,779.96. The peso also strengthened against the US

dollar, closing at P57.475 on Wednesday from P57.63 on Tuesday. Analysts said there is a growing sentiment that the lower inflation rate could influence the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ decision in its upcoming policy-setting meeting. Investors were also anticipating a positive second-quarter gross domestic product (GDP) report, which will be released Thursday.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the local financial market has been rising for the past four days amid improving market sentiment after better jobs data, higher farm production and a strengthening peso. Sectoral indices ended mixed, with property, financials, and holding firms registering declines. The services sector rose by 2.19 percent, while mining and oil and industrial advanced by

1.68 percent and 0.86 percent, respectively. Value turnover reached P6.32 billion. Foreign investors were net buyers, with net inflows at CYAN CYANMAGENTA MAGENTAYELLOW YELLOWBLACK BLACK P211.85 CYANmillion. MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK International Container Terminal Services Inc. was the day’s top gainer, climbing 4.57 percent to P481. ACEN Corp. was the main laggard, declining by 2.8 percent to P2.43. Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP

25-11 25-11 25-11

Manila Manila

Manila Standard Standard Standard TODAY TODAY

TODAY

MINING DIALOGUE. Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) members from the six barangays of Dinapigue engage in an open dialogue on sustainability with the management of Dinapigue Mining Corporation. NNOOTTI ICCEE NOTICE

NOTICE NOTICEISISHEREBY HEREBYGIVEN GIVEN NOTICE ISESTATE HEREBY GIVEN THAT THAT THE THEESTATE OFOFTHE THE THAT THE ESTATE OF THE LATE LATE ZOSIMO ZOSIMO R.R.GARCIA GARCIA LATE EXTRAJUDICIALLY ZOSIMO R. GARCIA WAS WAS EXTRAJUDICIALLY WAS EXTRAJUDICIALLY SETTLED SETTLED BYBYHEIRS HEIRSASAS SETTLED BY160; HEIRS AS PER PER DOC. DOC.NO. NO. 160; PAGE PAGE PER DOC.NO. NO.I; I;160; PAGE 33;33; BOOK BOOK NO. SERIES SERIES 33; BOOK NO. NOTARY I;NOTARY SERIES OFOF 2025 2025 BEFORE BEFORE OF 2025 BEFORE PUBLIC PUBLIC ATTY. ATTY. NOTARY IRISH IRISH PUBLICS.S.AQUINO ATTY. SELENE SELENE AQUINOIRISH OFOF SELENE S. AQUINO OF MAKATI MAKATI CITY. CITY. MAKATI (MS-JUL. CITY. (MS-JUL. 31/AUG. 31/AUG. 7/14, 7/14, 2025) 2025)

ALI launching P57-b projects in 2nd half

(MS-JUL. 31/AUG. 7/14, 2025)

REPUBLIC REPUBLICOF OFTHE THEPHILIPPINES PHILIPPINES REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL REGIONAL TRIAL TRIAL COURT COURT REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL NATIONAL CAPITAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL JUDICIAL REGION REGION NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION OFFICE OF OF OFFICE OFTHE THECLERK CLERK OFCOURT COURT&&EX-OFFICIO EX-OFFICIO OFFICE OF THEQUEZON CLERK OF COURT & EX-OFFICIO QUEZON CITY CITY QUEZON CITY E-mail E-mail Address: Address:rtc1qznocc@judiciary.gov.ph rtc1qznocc@judiciary.gov.ph E-mail Address: no. rtc1qznocc@judiciary.gov.ph Mobile No./Landline Mobile No./Landline no.09155083986/89243843 09155083986/89243843 Mobile No./Landline no. 09155083986/89243843 BDO BDOUNIBANK, UNIBANK,INC., INC., BDO UNIBANK, INC., Mortgagee, Mortgagee, Mortgagee, -versusFRENO. NO.15815 15815 -versusFRE -versusFRE NO. 15815 MARlNEL MARlNELBACUNAWA BACUNAWACRUELDAD, CRUELDAD, MARlNEL BACUNAWA CRUELDAD, represented bybyher represented herAttorney-in-fact, Attorney-in-fact, represented by her Attorney-in-fact, PAZ ACEBO PAZ ACEBOBACONAWA, BACONAWA, PAZ ACEBO BACONAWA, Debtors/Mortgagors. Debtors/Mortgagors. Debtors/Mortgagors. x------------------------------------------------------x x------------------------------------------------------x x------------------------------------------------------x NOTICE NOTICE OF OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL EXTRA-JUDICIAL SALE SALE OF OF REAL REAL PROPERTY PROPERTY NOTICE OF(Under EXTRA-JUDICIAL SALE OF REAL PROPERTY (Under Act Act 3135, 3135, AsAs Amended) Amended) (Under Act 3135, As Amended) UPON UPONextra-judicial extra-judicialpetition petitionunder underACT ACT3135, 3135,asasamended amended UPON extra-judicial petition under ACT 3135, as amended bybyACT and totothe terms and ofofthe ACT4118 4118 andpursuant pursuant the terms andconditions conditions the by ACTLoan 4118 and pursuant to the terms (Real and conditions ofand the Uniform Agreement Estate) Uniform Loanand andMortgage Mortgage Agreement (Real Estate)and Uniform Loan andand Mortgage Agreement (Real Loan Estate) and Supplemental Terms Conditions ofofthe Supplemental Terms and Conditions theUniform Uniform Loanand and Supplemental Terms and Estate) Conditions of March the Uniform Loan and Mortgage Agreement (Real 31, and Mortgage Agreement (Real Estate)dated dated March 31,2021 2021 and Mortgage Agreement (Real Estate) dated March 31, 2021 and June 9,9,2022 bybyPAZ PAZACEBO ACEBO BACONAWA BACONAWA asasAttorney-inAttorney-inJune 2022 June 9,MARINEL 2022 by PAZ ACEBO BACONAWA as Attorney-infact ofofMARINEL BACUNAWA BACUNAWA CRUELDAD CRUELDAD - #106, - #106, Road Road6,6, fact rd Road rd fact ofPag-asa, MARINEL BACUNAWA CRUELDAD - #106, 6, Floor, Floor, Bagong Quezon City 1105 and Unit 2345A, 2323 Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City 1105 and Unit 2345A, rd Floor, Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City 1105 and Unit 2345A, 23 Tower Tower 5,5,Grass GrassResidences, Residences, Nueva Nueva Ecija Ecija St., St., and andMisamis Misamis Tower 5,Bantay, Grass Quezon Residences, Nueva EcijainSt., andofof Misamis St., St., Bago Bago Bantay, QuezonCity, City,Mortgagor/s Mortgagor/s BDO BDO infavor favor St., BagoINC., Bantay, Quezon to City, Mortgagor/s in favordebt of BDO UNIBANK, UNIBANK, INC.,Mortgagee, Mortgagee, tosatisfy satisfy the themortgage mortgage debt in in UNIBANK, to per satisfy the mortgage debt the the amount amountofINC., ofPhp PhpMortgagee, 1,984,988.45 1,984,988.45 perattached attached Statement Statement ofofin the amount ofMay Php 1,984,988.45 per attached Statement of Account Account asasofofMay 27, 27, 2025 2025inclusive inclusive ofofaccrued accruedinterest interestand and Account as of May 27, 2025 inclusive offees accrued interest and other other charges, charges, together together with with allall the thelawful lawful feesand andexpenses expenses other charges, together with all Sheriff the lawful fees and expenses ofof foreclosure foreclosure sale, sale, the theEx-Officio Ex-Officio Sheriff ofofthe theRegional Regional Trial Trial of foreclosure sale, the Ex-Officio Sheriff of the Regional Trial Court Court ofof Quezon Quezon City City and/or and/or hishis duly duly authorized authorized Deputy Deputy Sheriff, Sheriff, Courtannounces ofannounces Quezon that City his duly authorized Deputy Sheriff, hereby hereby thatand/or ononSeptember September 18, 18,2025 2025between between the the hereby announces that onP.M. September 18, 2025 between hours hours ofof9:00 9:00A.M. A.M.toto 4:00 4:00 P.M. atatthe ofofthe Clerk theOffice Office the Clerkofthe of hours ofEx-Officio 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. at theCourt, OfficeHall of the Clerk of Court Court & &Ex-Officio Sheriff, Sheriff, Regional Regional Trial Trial Court, Hallof ofJustice Justice Court & Ex-Officio Sheriff, Regional Trial Court, Hall ofpublic Justice Bldg., Bldg., Elliptical Elliptical Road, Road, Diliman, Diliman, Quezon Quezon City, City, will willsell sell thru thru public Bldg., Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City, will sell thru public auction auction toto the the highest highest bidder bidder forfor cash, cash, in in Philippine Philippine Currency, Currency, the the auctiondescribed todescribed the highest bidder for cash, in all Philippine Currency, the following following real real property/ies property/ies with with allthe theimprovements improvements following described real property/ies with all the improvements existing existing thereon, thereon, toto wit: wit: existing thereon, to wit: CONDOMINIUM CONDOMINIUM CERTIFICATE CERTIFICATE OF OF TITLE TITLE CONDOMINIUM CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. NO. 004-2022002434 004-2022002434 NO. 004-2022002434 Registry Registry ofof Deeds-Quezon Deeds-Quezon City City Registry of Deeds-Quezon City FERN FERN @@ GRASS GRASS RESIDENCES RESIDENCES FERN 5@5 GRASS RESIDENCES TOWER TOWER TOWER 5 rd rd LOCA LOCA TION TION OF OF UNIT: UNIT: 2323 FLOOR FLOOR LOCA TION OF UNIT: 23rd FLOOR UNIT UNIT NO. NO. - 2345A - 2345A UNIT NO. 1- 2345A UNIT UNIT TYPE: TYPE: BEDROOM 1 BEDROOM UNIT TYPE: 1 BEDROOM UNIT UNIT AREA: AREA: 20.1 20.1 SQ. SQ. M.M. (MORE (MORE OR OR LESS) LESS) UNIT AREA: 20.1 SQ. M. (MORE OR LESS) in inthe thediagrammatic diagrammaticfloor floorplan planappended appendedtotothe theenabling enabling in thedeed diagrammatic floor plan appended toannotated the enabling orormaster master deedofofthe thecondominium condominium project projectannotated onon or master CERTIFICATE deed of the condominium project annotated on TRANSFER TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF OFTITLE TITLE2012013126 2012013126 which which TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE which embraces embraces and anddescribes describesthe theland landlocated locatedat2012013126 atMISAMIS MISAMISAND AND embraces and describes the land located at MISAMIS AND NUEVA NUEVAECIJA ECIJA STREETS, STREETS,BRGY. BRGY.STO. STO.CRISTO, CRISTO,QUEZON QUEZON NUEVA ECIJA BRGY. STO. CRISTO, QUEZON CITY CITY with with an an area area ofSTREETS, of Fourteen Fourteen Thousand Thousand (14,000) (14,000) Square Square Meter. Meter. CITY with an area of Fourteen Thousand (14,000) Square Meter. AllAllsealed sealedbids bidsmust mustbebesubmitted submittedtotothe theundersigned undersignedatatthe the All sealed bids must be stated submitted to thetime. undersigned at the aforesaid aforesaid office office on on the the above above stated date and date and time. aforesaid office on the above stated date and time. Interested Interested parties parties are are hereby hereby enjoined enjoined toto investigate investigate Interested are hereby enjoined to and investigate forforthemselves themselvesparties the thetitle title totothe thesaid said property/ies property/ies andthe the for themselves the iftitle to thebe. said property/ies and the encumbrances encumbrances thereon, thereon, any if any there there be. encumbrances thereon, if any there be. InInthe theevent eventthat thatpublic publicauction auctionshould shouldnot nottake takeplace placeononthe the In thedate event that public auction should not takebeplace on the scheduled scheduled date due due toto fortuitous fortuitous event event oror if the same declared if the same be declared scheduled date due toorfortuitous if the same be declared a anon-working non-working holiday holiday orforforany anyevent other otheror lawful/valid reasons, it it lawful/valid reasons, a non-working holiday or25, for any other lawful/valid reasons, shall shall bebe held held onon September September 25, 2025 2025 at at the the same same time time and and place placeit shall further befurther heldnotice. on September 25, 2025 at the same time and place without without notice. without further notice. Quezon Quezon City, City, Metro Metro Manila, Manila, 1515 July July 2025. 2025. Quezon City, Metro Manila, 15 July 2025. (Sgd.) (Sgd.) PHILIPSON PHILIPSON A.A. DOCABO DOCABO (Sgd.) PHILIPSON Sheriff Sheriff IVA. IV DOCABO Sheriff IV (Sgd.) (Sgd.) GREGORIO GREGORIO C.C. TALLUD TALLUD (Sgd.) GREGORIO C. TALLUD Clerk Clerk ofof Court Court VII VII and and Clerk of Court VII and Ex-Officio Ex-Officio Sheriff Sheriff Ex-Officio Sheriff Publication: Publication: Manila Manila Standard Standard Publication: Manila Standard Dates: Dates: August August 7,14 7,14 && 21, 21, 2025 2025 Dates: August 7,14 & 21, 2025 Copy Copy Furnished: Furnished: Copy Furnished: MARINEL MARINEL BACUNAWA BACUNAWA CRUELDAD CRUELDAD MARINELby BACUNAWA CRUELDAD represented represented by PAZ PAZ ACEBO ACEBO BACONAWA BACONAWA represented by PAZ ACEBO BACONAWA Mortgagor Mortgagor Mortgagor #106, #106, Road Road 6,6, Bagong Bagong Pag-asa, Pag-asa, Quezon Quezon City 1105 City 1105 #106, Road 6, Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City 1105 -and-and-andrd rd Floor, Floor, Tower Tower 5,5, Grass Grass Unit Unit 2345A, 2345A, 2323 Tower 5,Misamis Grass Unit 2345A, 23rd Floor, Residences, Residences, Nueva Nueva Ecija Ecija St., St., and and Misamis St., St., Residences, Nueva Ecija Bago Bago Bantay, Bantay, Quezon Quezon City, City,St., and Misamis St., Bago Bantay, Quezon City, BDO BDO UNIBANK, UNIBANK, INC., INC., BDO UNIBANK, INC., Mortgagee Mortgagee rd rd Mortgagee Floor, Floor, BDO BDO Corporate Corporate Center Center Ortigas Ortigas 3333 rd Floor, BDO Corporate CenterCity Ortigas 3312, No. No. 12, ADB ADB Avenue, Avenue, Mandaluyong Mandaluyong City No. 12, ADB Avenue, Mandaluyong City WARNING: WARNING: WARNING: It Itis isabsolutely absolutelyprohibited prohibitedtotoremove, remove,deface defaceorordestroy destroythis this It is ofabsolutely prohibited tobefore remove, deface or destroy this Notice Notice of Sheriff’s Sheriff’s Sale Sale onon oror before the the date date ofof the the auction auction sale sale Notice of Sheriff’s Sale on or before the date of the auction sale under under penalty penalty ofof the the law. law. under penalty of the law. (MStandard (MStandard - Aug. - Aug. 7,7, 1414 && 21, 21, 2025) 2025) (MStandard - Aug. 7, 14 & 21, 2025)

By Jenniffer B. Austria

ROPERTY developer Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) plans to launch P57 billion in new projects during the second half of 2025, following a strong first-half performance.

“Our sales momentum is improving, and we are preparing for a busy second half with P57 billion in new property development launches and the completion of reinvention work at our malls and hotels,” said ALI president and chief executive Anna Ma. Margarita Bautista-Dy. “These initiatives will support our growth aspirations for 2025 and beyond.” ALI reported an 8 percent increase in net income to P14.2 billion in the first six months, supported by steady property development revenues and a record high for leasing and hospitality income. Consolidated revenues rose to P83.1 billion during the period. Property development revenues reached P52.3 billion in the first six months, driven by higher recognized revenues from AyalaLand Premier and Alveo residential projects. Commercial and industrial lot sales grew 42 percent to P9.1 billion, while revenues from offices-for-sale rose 5 percent to P1.9 billion. First-half sales reservations hit P73.7 billion, or P12.3 billion in monthly sales. This was up 4 percent from the monthly average in 2024. Premium residential sales led the segment at P40.6 billion, while sales of commercial and industrial lots rose 7 percent to P8 billion. Core residential sales also gained momentum in the second quarter, with first-half sales totaling P25.1 billion. In the first half, ALI launched P42.9 billion in new projects, including Laurean Residences in Makati City, commercial lots in Areza, Batangas, and industrial lots at Cavite Technopark. Leasing and hospitality revenues reached a record P23.2 billion, a 5 percent increase year-over-year. Shopping center revenues grew 5 percent to P11.6 billion on increasing contributions from existing and new malls. Office leasing revenues also rose 5 percent to P5.9 billion, as vacancy rates remained low. Hospitality revenues hit P4.9 billion, driven by solid occupancy despite renovations affecting close to 900 rooms, while revenues from the industrial real estate segment went up 60 percent to P762 million.

Puregold’s income grew 7.1% to P5.3b in 6 months GROCERY retailer Puregold Price Club Inc. said Wednesday its consolidated net income rose 7.1 percent in the first half of 2025 to P5.3 billion from P4.95 billion in the same period last year. The company, owned by businessman Lucio Co, said the increase was driven by double-digit sales growth and stable gross margins. Consolidated revenues jumped 11.6 percent to P109.9 billion from P98.5 billion a year earlier, boosted by higher basket sizes at Puregold stores and increased foot traffic at S&R Warehouse Clubs. Same-store sales for the first six months of the year rose 6.4 percent for Puregold and 4.7 percent for S&R, the company said in a statement. Gross profit climbed 11.9 percent to P20.9 billion, with a gross margin of 19.1 percent, steady from 19 percent in the first half of 2024. As of end-June, Puregold was operating 764 stores nationwide, including 666 Puregold branches, 31 S&R Membership Shopping warehouses and 67 S&R New York Style quick service restaurants. Jenniffer B. Austria CYAN CYANMAGENTA MAGENTAYELLOW YELLOWBLACK BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025

extrastory2000@gmail.com

Paintplas investing over P350m in new Batangas facility By Othel V. Campos

AINTPLAS Global Corporation is investing more than P350 million in a new manufacturing facility in Batangas after officially joining the Philippine Economic Zone Authority’s (PEZA) roster of ecozone export enterprises.

The registration agreement was signed on Aug. 1, 2025, by PEZA director general Tereso Panga and Paintplas president Nilo Magbanua at the PEZA head office in Pasay City. Located at the Lima Technology Center Special Economic Zone in Malvar, Batangas, the facility is set to begin commercial operations by September 2026. The plastic manufacturer will

produce and assemble plastic components for toys, vending machines, and motorcycle parts. The project is expected to generate about 60 new jobs, contributing to local employment and boosting economic activity in the region. “Their presence at LTC-SEZ will help strengthen Batangas as a growing export hub and reaffirm PEZA’s role in fostering investment-led growth,” Panga said.

TOURISM RECOVERY. The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines conducts the TPB Members’ Inspection Tour with corporate social responsibility (CSR) activity under the Destination Marketing Assistance for Tourism Recovery Program (DMATRP) from July 8-12, 2025 in the island province of Catanduanes. Catanduanes is embracing a more fitting moniker after having tourists casually remarking the province as a ‘Happy Island.’

PH lost $2b to illicit tobacco trade last year THE Philippines lost an estimated $2 billion to illicit tobacco trade in 2024, with experts warning the problem is worsening due to a lack of successful prosecutions. Speaking at the “Combatting Illicit Trade in Southeast Asia” forum, illicit trade expert and consultant Rohan Pike said the illicit tobacco market reached around 19.5 percent by the end of 2024, based on industry studies. “This figure is rising. It’s not because of a lack of enforcement, but rather a lack of successful prosecution,” Pike said, urging a shift in focus from simply catching offenders to ensuring they are convicted and jailed. Pike noted the Philippines serves as both a destination and transit point

for illicit products, with smuggled tobacco coming from China, Cambodia, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia. The country’s southern provinces are among the hardest hit, with some areas reportedly “100 percent rife” with illicit trade. Meanwhile, the Philippine Tobacco Institute (PTI) is urging the government to create a dedicated task force to combat the growing illicit tobacco trade, which now accounts for one in every five cigarettes on the market. Citing the latest industry data, PTI representative Jericho Nograles said 20 percent of cigarette sticks sold in the country are illicit, posing a major threat to both government revenue and public safety.

The legal tobacco sector contributes around P160 billion in excise taxes to the national treasury each year. “With that kind of revenue, it’s worth investing in a government strike force, a composite group not limited to the Philippine National Police but also including the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bureau of Customs, Department of Finance, and Department of Justice,” Nograles said on the sidelines of the forum. He warned that without such a dedicated unit, the burden falls heavily on the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), which is already stretched thin dealing with serious crimes like kidnapping and organized crime. Othel V. Campos

Doctors and the multi-level marketing scheme

—“—

A DOCTOR is probably the most trusted person outside the family. He or she heals the sick and recommends the best course of action to take until the patient is fully recovered. The medical profession in the Philippines is held in high esteem that it is often seen as infallible, even incorruptible. The words of doctors are trusted and their intentions rarely questioned. However, what happens when some of those entrusted with this sacred role begin to abuse their privilege? Lawyer Erin Tañada believes that some doctors engage in unethical practices that are detrimental to the Philippine healthcare system. Tañada, a former lawmaker and champion of good governance and Philippine universal healthcare, has filed a petition with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and Board of Medicine (BOM) to conduct an investigation on two medical doctors. The doctors, per Senate committee hearings held in April 2024, are allegedly involved in multi-level marketing (MLM) scheme. Doctors through the scheme prescribe medicines produced and sold by a certain pharmaceutical company in exchange for financial incentives and other material rewards. While there is no existing law or regulation to prohibit such practice, the MLM scheme is mostly viewed as unethical because it compromises the expertise and integrity of the medical profession since commercial interests are involved. The Senate hearings last year drew much media attention but they appear to have been swept under the rug and did not result in a committee report. The medical professionals and the pharma company involved seemed to have gone scot-free until Tañada filed the complaint, seeking the suspension or revocation of licenses if doctors are found guilty. The alleged MLM scheme subverts the pronouncements of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on healthcare during his recent State of the Nation Address. The MLM scheme is antipoor and distorts the Philippine healthcare system. The healthcare system seeks to provide services to Filipinos for free but the participating doctors in the MLM scheme prefer to enrich themselves by prescribing only the pharma company’s products. The subject doctors instruct patients to buy these medicines in the company-owned drugstores. Thus, the more doctors prescribe the products, the more points they earn

The MLM scheme

Administrative Order No. 169, series of 2004 states that “All DOH facilities and their personnel shall only use generic names or terminology in all transactions related to procurement, prescribing, dispensing, and administering of drugs and medicines.” Current rules and regulations empower patients to have the freedom to purchase generic or branded medicines. But the unscrupulous and unethical practice allegedly committed by the two doctors and their partner pharmaceutical companies contradicts efforts of many lawmakers and government officials to achieve an inclusive and comprehensive public healthcare services for all Filipinos.

towards attaining incentives, such as is anti-poor luxury cars and foreign trips. If the unethical prescription and distorts persists, the likelihood of corrupting incoming generations of doctors is the Philippine very high―much to the detriment of healthcare system. the Philippine healthcare system and poor Filipino patients. Healthcare champion Tañada is the right person to point out the immoral practice of doctors. use the generic names of prescribed He is known for his advocacies for medicines to patients. human rights, good governance and For doctors affiliated with public transparency. hospitals, Department of Health Tañada is also known for his support for the development of universal healthcare in SOLDIVO BOND FUND, INC. the Philippines. He is 8 Floor 8 Rockwell Bldg., Hidalgo Drive. Rockwell Center, Makati City, Metro Manila the first author of the Tel. No. 8814-7800; Fax No. 8814-0315 Universal Healthcare Law filed in the NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING history of the House of NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting Representatives. (ASM) of the aforementioned Corporation will be held virtually He authored other or via remote communication on 29 August 2025 at 2:00PM health-related bills, via Zoom webinar. Stockholders can register at https://bit.ly/ SoldivoFundsASM2025. Webinar password will be sent via email such as the National after registration. Health Insurance Act and increased The Agenda of the Meeting is as follows: taxation and marketing regulations for tobacco I. Call to Order advertisements. He also II. Certification of Notice and Quorum III. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Shareholders supported the passage Meeting held on 08 August 2024 of Cheaper Medicines IV. Management Report Act in 2008, which V. Presentation of the Audited Financial Statements as of enabled more Filipinos 31 December 2024 to afford medicines. VI. Ratification of the Corporate Acts of the Board of Directors Tañada’s petition since the last annual stockholders’ meeting VII. Election of Directors for 2025 to 2026 struck a nerve in the VIII. Issuance of Units of Participation medical profession. IX. Appointment of External Auditor for 2025 Doctors are supposed X. Other Matters to be caretakers of XI. Adjournment health and life. If allegations are true that Only holders of issued stocks of record as at the close of business hours on 30 June 2025 and whose status as stockholders on that certain doctors benefit date has been satisfactorily established in accordance with the financially from some corporate records of the Stock and Transfer Agent and the Corporate pharmaceutical firms Secretary of the Company, will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, through biased prethe scheduled stockholders’ meeting. scription, then their behavior is driven more Stockholders who intend to participate in the meeting via remote communication and to exercise their vote in absentia must notify the by commercial interCorporate Secretary by registering through the Company’s website for ests instead of the Hipthe 2025 annual meeting of the stockholders on or before 19 August pocratic oath they took. 2025. All information submitted will be subject to verification and Their MLM involvevalidation by the Corporate Secretary by 22 August 2025. Successful ment violates the Proregistrants will receive an e-mail with instructions on how to access an fessional Regulatory online web address which will allow them to join the meeting and cast votes in absentia or by proxy in favor of the Chairman of the meeting. Code and the Code of Ethics of the PhilipThe procedures for participating in the meeting through remote pine Medical Associacommunication and for casting their votes in absentia are set forth tion, which prohibits in the Information Statement. The Definitive Information Statement doctors from receiving including its exhibits are to be released to the shareholders via email commissions or engagon August 07, 2025, and will be available on the Company’s website. ing in commercial enMakati City, Philippines, 03 July 2025. dorsements that affect their independence and judgment. The patient is at the receiving end of the (Sgd.) ATTY. TRANQUIL S. SALVADOR III Corporate Secretary MLM practice. The Generic Acts of 1988 encourages doctors to

The unethical practice could further increase public skepticism against the medical profession and medical community. We should be reminded that the Philippine healthcare sector is still struggling against the increased vaccine hesitancy brought by the Dengvaxia scandal in 2019. It is critical for the PRC and BOM to conduct a thorough, balanced and timely investigation on the matter. And all sectors should exert efforts to put an end to the scandalous financial ties between medical doctors and pharmaceutical companies in the Philippines. E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com

SOLDIVO STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND, INC. 8 Floor 8 Rockwell Bldg., Hidalgo Drive. Rockwell Center, Makati City, Metro Manila Tel. No. 8814-7800; Fax No. 8814-0315

NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting (ASM) of the aforementioned Corporation will be held virtually or via remote communication on 29 August 2025 at 3:00PM via Zoom webinar. Stockholders can register at https://bit.ly/ SoldivoFundsASM2025. Webinar password will be sent via email after registration. The Agenda of the Meeting is as follows: I. II. III.

Call to Order Certification of Notice and Quorum Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Shareholders Meeting held on 08 August 2024 IV. Management Report V. Presentation of the Audited Financial Statements as of 31 December 2024 VI. Ratification of the Corporate Acts of the Board of Directors since the last annual stockholders’ meeting VII. Election of Directors for 2025 to 2026 VIII. Issuance of Units of Participation XI. Appointment of External Auditor for 2025 X. Other Matters XI. Adjournment

Only holders of issued stocks of record as at the close of business hours on 30 June 2025 and whose status as stockholders on that date has been satisfactorily established in accordance with the corporate records of the Stock and Transfer Agent and the Corporate Secretary of the Company, will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the scheduled stockholders’ meeting. Stockholders who intend to participate in the meeting via remote communication and to exercise their vote in absentia must notify the Corporate Secretary by registering through the Company’s website for the 2025 annual meeting of the stockholders on or before 19 August 2025. All information submitted will be subject to verification and validation by the Corporate Secretary by 22 August 2025. Successful registrants will receive an e-mail with instructions on how to access an online web address which will allow them to join the meeting and cast votes in absentia or by proxy in favor of the Chairman of the meeting. The procedures for participating in the meeting through remote communication and for casting their votes in absentia are set forth in the Information Statement. The Definitive Information Statement including its exhibits are to be released to the shareholders via email on August 07, 2025, and will be available on the Company’s website. Makati City, Philippines, 03 July 2025. (Sgd.) ATTY. TRANQUIL S. SALVADOR III Corporate Secretary

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025

extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

Cebu Pacific’s first-half profit soared 153% C By Darwin G. Amojelar

ebu Pacific said Wednesday its net income soared 153 percent in the first half of 2025, driven by strong passenger growth, better operational efficiency and disciplined cost management.

Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang (right) and Poro Point Management Corp. president and officer-in-charge chairman of the board Felix Racadio lead the inspection of the Poro Point Seaport in La Union. Source: BCDA

BCDA pushes Poro Point seaport modernization By Othel V. Campos STATE-RUN Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said Wednesday it is moving forward with the full-scale modernization of the San Fernando International Seaport in Poro Point, La Union, with critical backing from the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center. The project has secured provisional funding of P74.90 million under the Project Development and Monitoring Facility (PDMF), it said. Under a newly-issued technical assistance agreement, BCDA and the PPP

Center will engage expert consultants to undertake comprehensive project preparation including feasibility studies, market analysis, legal and financial structuring and full PPP transaction support. The redevelopment aims to convert the existing bulk and break-bulk terminal into a modern, containerized port equipped with cutting-edge infrastructure and logistics systems. Plans include the installation of container terminals and automated yard systems, quay and yard cranes for faster cargo turnaround, expanded storage and stacking areas, digital freight and terminal operating sys-

tems and upgraded road and future rail connectivity. Gender, environmental and climate safeguards will be integrated into the project’s design and execution. “Northern Luzon has long lacked modern port infrastructure, which limits its participation in global trade. This project will enable full containerization, streamline logistics, and strengthen regional industries through more competitive supply chains. It’s a major step toward realizing Poro Point’s potential as a strategic economic gateway,” said BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang.

GCash to roll out new features on responsible gaming GCASH, the mobile wallet of Globe Telecom, said Wednesday it will roll out new features to promote responsible online gaming amid calls from lawmakers to bar gambling sites from linking directly to digital wallets. The changes also align with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) plan to issue a circular to protect consumers by placing various limits on gaming access. “We are very supportive, and we do promote responsible gaming,” said Globe chief financial officer Juan Carlo Puno in a virtual briefing. “We have proper controls in place to make sure that anyone under 21 [years old]... we bar them from actually participating in any of the licensed gaming,” he said. Puno said this is “very much consistent with PAGCOR [Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.] rules.” Puno said GCash is implementing measures to promote responsible gaming, including active notifications and informational materials for users. These reminders are shown upon entering GLife and when clicking on specific gaming merchants. “If in the past it took you three clicks to get to the website of the gaming merchants, it will now take you around five clicks,” Puno said. “So there is some additional friction to go into the websites of the gaming merchants,” he said. He said GCash would also introduce a new “self-exclusion” feature, allowing users to temporarily or permanently restrict their ability to engage in gaming activities on the platform. Darwin G. Amojelar

The airline unit of the Gokongwei Group said it posted a net income of P8.97 billion from January to June, higher than P3.54 billion it logged in the same period last year. The group’s revenues amounted to P63.33 billion in the six-month the period, or 23.1 percent higher than P51.43 billion it earned in the same period last year. Passenger revenues grew by 24 percent to P44.232 billion from P35.68 billion due to the overall increase in travel demand. Cargo revenues went up 33.3 percent to P3.51 billion from P2.63 billion from a year ago, led by a 42.9-percent increase in cargo volume. “These results for the second quarter and first half of 2025 reflect the returns from our strategic investments in fleet and network expansion along with the sustained demand for air travel,” said Cebu Pacific chief executive Michael Szucs. “With the Philippines’ growing economy, favorable demographics

FINANCING AWARDS. Asialink

Finance Corp. marketing communications manager Gabriel Doromal; content specialist Aira Mae Astrero, board director Ruben Lorenzo Francisco Lugtu, chief operating officer Lea Yap, president and chief executive Sam Cariño, chairperson Ruben Lugtu II and marketing and business development group head Val Origenes receive the awards for ‘Finance Company of the Year for the Philippines’ and ‘SME Financial Inclusion Initiative of the Year’ at the 2025 Asian Banking & Finance Retail Banking Awards.

Metro Pacific’s core net income grew 20% in 6 months By Alena Mae S. Flores METRO Pacific Investments Corp. sustained its strong growth momentum in the first half of 2025, reporting a 20-percent increase in consolidated core net income to P15 billion from P12.5 billion in the same period in 2024, driven by the strong contribution of the power business. MPIC said the improved financial and operational performance across its portfolio drove an 18-percent increase in contribution from operations to P17.5 billion, fueled by robust growth in Manila Electric Co.’s power generation business, the implementation of higher tariffs at Maynilad Water Services es Inc. and rising patient volumes across the Metro Pa-

cific Hospitals network. “Our performance in the first half of the year reflects the continued resilience and strength of our businesses. We’ve seen meaningful contributions from power, water, and toll roads—sectors that are fundamental to the country’s development,” said MPIC chairman, president and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan. “Beyond financial performance, we are sharpening our focus on longterm value creation by scaling investments in areas where we can make the greatest impact—energy, food security, and inclusive infrastructure. The momentum is encouraging, and we intend to continue building on it,” he said. MPIC said its reported net income

surged 36 percent to P17 billion from P12.5 billion, led by gains from the sale of MPIC’s oil storage company, Philippine Coastal Storage and Pipeline Corporation. Power continued to contribute the largest share to MPIC at P11.2 billion or 64 percent of net operating income (NOI). Meralco’s consolidated core net income grew by 10 percent to P25.5 billion, supported by stronger contributions from both the power generation and DU businesses. Revenues increased 3 percent, primarily reflecting higher pass-through charges, increased distribution utility volumes and retail electricity sales, as well as improved power generation revenues from the reserve market and enhanced plant availability.

BTr makes gov’t bonds available to more Filipinos via GCash app By Thony Rose Lesaca THE Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) has made retail treasury bonds (RTBs) more accessible for Filipinos through a new feature on the GCash app, allowing investors to purchase government securities using an e-wallet. The “GBonds” feature enables fully verified GCash users to place a buy order for the government’s 31st RTB issuance from Aug. 5 to 15. The minimum investment is P5,000, with no extra fees. National Treasurer Sharon Almanza said the collaboration “significantly expands our reach, enabling more Filipinos to invest in government securities easily and securely.”

“It’s a monumental step toward our goal of a more financially inclusive Philippines, giving more people the opportunity to build their savings and contribute to the nation’s economic growth,” she said. The government raised P210 billion in its rate-setting auction on Tuesday, surpassing the initial offer size of P30 billion for the five-year RTBs. This resulted in a 6-percent coupon rate, or annual interest rate, for the bonds. Martha Sazon, president and chief executive of GCash parent Mynt, said making RTBs more accessible to millions of Filipinos also allows retail investors to “contribute to the P2.6 trillion borrowing program of the government to fund essential projects.”

and expanding tourism sector, we remain well positioned to drive long term growth in low-cost travel,” he said. The airline said it flew 7 million passengers in the second quarter, up 16 percent from last year, as both domestic and international markets posted double-digit growth. Domestic traffic rose 14 percent to over 5.1 million, while international traffic jumped 23 percent to 1.8 million, supported by the April Easter holiday and a strong peak travel season. The surge in demand pushed seat load factor to 85.9 percent and boosted revenues across the business. The group said it incurred operating expenses of P55.420 billion, up by 20.6 percent from P45.95 billion in the same period last year. Cebu Pacific said the increase was driven by the more flight operations, as a material portion of its expenses is based on flights and flight hours.

IN BRIEF SIAEC plans to open NAIA facility in September

SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC), a leading aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) provider in the AsiaPacific region, is expanding into the Philippines. Its local subsidiary, SIA Engineering (Philippines) Corp. (SIAEP), will begin operations at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) by September 2025. A trusted MRO provider operating out of Clark, SIAEP is the Philippine subsidiary of SIAEC, which is majorityowned by the Singapore Airlines Group. Known for supporting many of the world’s top airlines, SIAEP’s decision to expand to NAIA reflects growing confidence in the airport’s ongoing improvements and its potential to become a stronger hub for aviation services. Its entry is seen to benefit not only local carriers, but the broader aviation industry as it opens up more opportunities for skills development, knowledge transfer, and jobs in aircraft maintenance. “This is a big boost for NAIA and for Philippine aviation. We welcome SIAEP and look forward to working closely with them to improve support for airlines operating here,” said Ramon Ang, president and chief executive of New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC). Darwin G. Amojelar

BSP’s TDF yields mixed as tenders rise at auction

YIELDS on the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) term deposit facility (TDF) were mixed at Wednesday’s auction. The BSP fully awarded the 14-day tenor, offering P50 billion which was oversubscribed with bids reaching P64.925 billion. The central bank accepted P38.846 billion in tenders for the sevenday tenor, below the P50 billion on offer. The average yield for the seven-day tenor rose by 0.28 basis points (bps) to 5.2549 percent, while the 14-day yield fell by 1.08 bps to 5.2901 percent. Total bids for both tenors reached P103.771 billion, up from P88.578 billion last week. The total offering was P100 billion. Thony Rose Lesaca

Globe’s first-half profit dropped 14%

Martha Sazon, the president and chief executive of GCash parent Mynt announces that retail treasury bonds are now more accessible for Filipinos through the GBonds feature of the mobile wallet.

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Wednesday its first-half net income fell 14 percent year-on-year on higher depreciation and interest expenses. The telecom arm of the Ayala Group reported a net profit of P12.4 billion for the January-June period, down from P14.5 billion in the same period last year. The results included a P2.6-billion gross gain from the disposal of shares following MUFG’s acquisition of an 8-percent stake in its fintech affiliate Mynt. These gains helped offset the impact of higher depreciation, interest expenses and other non-operating charges. Excluding one-off items, normalized net income was P10 billion, a 16-percent decrease year-on-year. Core net income, which excludes non-recurring items like the Mynt disposal gains and foreign exchange adjustments, was P10.4 billion, down 11 percent from P11.7 billion a year earlier. Core earnings for the second quarter, however, rose 30 percent sequentially to P5.9 billion from P4.5 billion in the first quarter. Darwin G. Amojelar

BINONDO

THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025

extrastory2000@gmail.com

Filipino-Chinese community raises P10m for disaster relief

FFCCCII president Victor Lim (left), Pilipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation officers and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno (right) at Manila City Hall for donation of 10,000 bags of rice for typhoon victims on July 31, 2025. The donation is part of the P10 million worth of relief goods the business group provided for recent typhoon flood victims in Metro Manila and various provinces.

Paco chamber donates 2,000 bags of rice to storm victims

HE FilipinoChinese community, led by the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII), raised an emergency disaster relief fund of P10 million to help victims of recent calamities in the Philippines. The relief operations were coordinated by the Filipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation. FFCCCII president Victor Lim led the team and delivered 10,000 sacks of rice to Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso on July 31, 2025 to help displaced families and ease the burden on evacuation centers. In addition to Metro Manila, relief operations were also conducted in provinces including Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Pangasinan, and La Union. Lim also visited Bacolod City, where he worked with the Bacolod Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce to donate construction materials for rebuilding efforts in surrounding areas affected by the Kanlaon volcano eruption. A seven-story, 100-foot hydraulic aerial ladder modern fire truck, was donated by the family of Dr. Manuel S. Lo, founder of Grace Pharmacy Bacolod and Merzci Bakeshop, to the the Bacolod Chinese Volunteer Fire Brigade to improve the region’s disaster response capacity.

Chinese expert expands mushroom farming in PH ZHANG Hua Shan, a seasoned agricultural expert from Fujian Agriculture University, has introduced his successful mushroom farming business in the Philippines. With years of experience in China, Zhang is now focusing on utilizing his expertise to drive innovation in the local agriculture industry.

The Paco Filipino-Chinese Association Chamber of Commerce donates 2,000 bags of rice on Aug. 1, 2025 to typhoon victims in Manila.

THE Paco Filipino-Chinese Association Chamber of Commerce, led by its chairman Li Jun Xiong, donated 2,000 bags of rice on Aug. 1, 2025 to typhoon victims in Manila. Each bag contained 5 kilograms of rice, and two trucks were used to transport the goods to Manila City Hall. Manila Mayor Francisco Moreno Domagoso personally received the donation and thanked the Filipino-Chinese community for their prompt response and support. He lauded the Paco Filipino-Chinese Association for their concern for the victims of the recent typhoons. Also present at the donation were Paco District city councilor Mon Yupangco, Paco Filipino-Chinese Association vice chairperson Chen Lin Ya, secretary general Wang Xue Yi and other directors of the association. The donated rice will be distributed to those affected by the typhoon across the city. Michael Wong Ho

By Michael Wong Ho

Zhang Hua Shan introduces his successful mushroom farming business in the Philippines.

He established a mushroom green greenhouse farm in Trece Martires, Cavite together with his business partners. The farm primarily grows a special variety of straw mushrooms using locally available materials like sawdust residue and sugarcane waste (bagasse) as growing mediums. The sustainable approach not only reduces waste but also contributes to local job creation. The farm supplies both local and international markets, with some mushrooms being exported to Japan, while others are processed into mushroom chips for further distribution. He said the areas around Tagaytay, particularly at the foot of the volcano, present an ideal environment for mushroom cultivation due to its cooler temperatures and high humidity- conditions that are well-suited for the delicate growth of mushrooms. Drawing from his experiences in China, he believes the Philippines has

vast untapped potential for modern agriculture, with its rich soil, abundant sunshine, and consistent rainfall. Based on his experience in China, the ideal operation model for the business is “Company + Farmers”, which aims to empower local communities by providing capital and technical support to farmers. Under the model, farmers cultivate mushrooms on their own land, with a contractual agreement to sell their harvests back to the company at a predetermined price. It also creates a mutually beneficial relationship, where farmers have guaranteed buyers for their produce, and the company secures a steady supply of high-quality mushrooms. Despite its potential, the model is difficult to implement, as Zhang struggles to ensure consistent cooperation from local farmers. “The key to success in this model lies in trust and discipline,” said Zhang. Farmers need to be committed to the agreement, ensuring that they do not misuse the company’s financial support and stick to the contract terms. Zhang, who is also married to a Filipina, is deeply committed to contributing to the development of Philippine agriculture. Michael Wong Ho

Dental foundation inducts new officers to continue service By Julie Ann Lope THE Filipino Chinese Dental Foundation Inc. held its 44th President’s Night and Induction of Officers at the Heritage Hotel in Pasay City on July 20, 2025. Dr. Perlita Tingjuy was elected as the new president of the foundation. Philippine Dental Association president Dr. Lucilo Niñal Jr. served as the commissioner for oaths, while Rep. and lawyer Jose Manuel Diokno served as the keynote speaker. Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) vice president

Alumni association members benefit from discounted medical services

William Castro extended his best regards and blessings to the newlyinducted officers. He highlighted the long-standing partnership between the Filipino Chinese Dental Foundation Inc. and FFCCCII’s social responsibility committee in conducting free medical and dental missions. The team provides free medical services to residents in various areas almost every Sunday. As FFCCCII’s social responsibility committee supervisor, Castro expressed hopes for the foundation to continue serving the Filipino community with compassion.

The Filipino Chinese Dental Foundation Inc. holds its 44th President’s Night and Induction of Officers at the Heritage Hotel in Pasay City on July 20, 2025.

THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Alumni Associations Inc. (FFCAAI) and Cardinal Santos Medical Center signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) renewing the medical discounts in a ceremony at the Skyline Conference Center of the hospital on July 17, 2025. The event was attended by key members of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Alumni Associations Inc.,

including its president Golden David, honorary presidents Eluina Sim and Loraine Tan and vice presidents Ellen Mui Martines and Vhivian Wong Chan. Cardinal Santos Medical Center was represented by its president and chief executive Raul Pagdanganan, dean Dr. Antonio Say, MD, senior vice president and chief financial officer Marivic Mabuti, assistant

vice president and head of business planning and development Jake Solomon, assistant vice president and head of ancillary services Dr. Mys Tirol, director of financial operations Shiela Perez, head of patient experience Marilen Lagniton, and head of sales Julyeth Caladiao. introduced the hospital’s history, team management and expertise in healthcare services.

David highlighted the significance of the renewed collaboration. “By combining resources, expertise, and networks, both parties are committed to enhancing healthcare services, promoting medical research, and engaging in community outreach programs to benefit countless individuals and families,” he said. Julie Ann Lope

SHOWBIZ

C2 THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Webtoon platform inks deal with Viva for Wattpad adaptations

Daryl Kho of Webtoon Productions speaks at the contract signing for a first-look development and production deal with Viva

By Nickie Wang

IVA Communications, Inc. has signed a three-year first-look development and production deal with Webtoon Productions to adapt more Wattpad stories for its streaming platform, Viva One, the companies announced. Studio VIVA president and COO Valerie Del Rosario (left) of Viva and Daryl Kho of Webtoon Productions seal their partnership to bring more Wattpad stories to the screen

Liam (left) and Noel Gallagher reunite for Oasis’ Live ’25 Tour, marking their first show together since 2009

Touchbass

Yugel Losorata

Two legends died a few days after the alleged illicit affair caught on cam went viral, with “Prince of Darkness” Ozzy Osbourne dying on the 22nd, and wrestling icon Hulk Hogan three days later. They were both controversial and beloved figures. Osbourne, who fronted pioneering metal act Black Sabbath in the ‘70s, passed away just 17 days after his farewell concert. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame both THE previous month gave us as a member of his famous a hefty dosage of big news group (2006) and as a solo around the international music act (2024). scene and entertainment in He infamously bit a general. I’m going to highlight dove’s head off during a four of these, all featuring meeting, and during a live personalities attached to show, he bit a bat because controversy, which actually he thought it was a piece of made them extra interesting. rubber. There was the muchWhy the world fell for a anticipated reunion of the man with such outrageous Gallagher brothers, Liam behavior is exactly the Coldplay frontman Chris Martin (right) performs during and Noel, of Oasis fame. the Music of the Spheres World Tour, where a viral reason he became a Legendary figures Ozzy Jumbotron moment revealed an alleged affair between remarkable figure—because Osbourne and Hulk Hogan (left) two audience members he did what others could died in the same week, only imagine in their wildest camera. It doesn’t matter to us while one awkward moment dreams. Not to mention, he who you’re mingling with.” Even during the Jumbotron segment at had talent and helped open doors for likeomitting the cuss words couldn’t a Coldplay concert stole the show minded souls around the world who had mask the sarcasm. and gave news sites and netizens a given in to the routine of having regular Sadly, a man at their show last reason to go gaga. jobs and acting as society expects. He Saturday apparently fell to his The Oasis Live ‘25 Tour began on was a legend because not so many death. That should have been the fourth of July at the Principality people could be him. avoided. No artist is worth literally Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. That The last of the four celebrities dying for. was their first show since the split to be mentioned in this piece Now, let’s go to Coldplay in 2009, as thrilled fans helped six is not your regular musician frontman Chris Martin. We can of the band’s songs reenter the UK with attitude or some form of only wonder what could have charts. Guitarist Paul “Bonehead” charisma, but he equally lived happened had he not joked that the Arthurs, part of the original his life like a character straight two caught on the Jumbotron last lineup, joined the brothers, along out of a Hollywood movie. July 16 were “having an affair.” Yet with other much-later members. Yes, Hulk Hogan was it’s wrong to cast the blame on the Some of the band’s songs defined a rock star, and his fame guy who is the focal point of his the Britpop movement in the ‘90s, was appropriately dubbed band’s well-received Music of the and I recall scenes from my youth Hulkamania. Interestingly, he Spheres World Tour. every time I hear songs like “Don’t may have been a bass player in The couple, whose identities we Look Back in Anger,” “Champagne a band and reportedly applied to now all know, made two mistakes Supernova,” and “Wonderwall.” be the bassist of Metallica—or that night. One, they should not My personal favorite, though, is something of that magnitude. have acted the way they did, as the underrated “Don’t Go Away,” He dealt with controversies they actually gave themselves which features a melancholic later in his life, but there’s no away. They were so lost in their melody and Liam’s impassioned doubt he transformed wrestling moment off-cam that when it vocal delivery. Perhaps it is too soft into mainstream entertainment panned to them, their instincts got a song to consider among their best in his heydays in the ‘80s and ahead of them. tracks. into the early ‘90s. He owned Two, why be at a Coldplay Liam jumped in on the muchWrestleMania! concert when you should be dating parodied kiss cam incident at their Hulkamania even had a theme in a secluded place? The chance concert in Manchester, telling the song: “Real American.” It was a of being seen at a public event is crowd, “Don’t worry, we ain’t song that perfectly fit his vibe and a coin toss. got any of that Coldplay snidey charm.

Iconic lives, rockin’ live

Under the agreement, Viva One will serve as the home for upcoming adaptations of popular Wattpad titles, expanding on a partnership that has already brought several fan-favorite stories to screen. Viva One currently has over four million subscribers across 90 countries. The latest collaboration follows the success of Ang Mutya ng Section E, which gained international traction. Other successful titles previously adapted by Viva include Diary ng Panget, Talk Back and You’re Dead, Ex With Benefits, This Time, Your Place or Mine?, and Girlfriend for Hire. Recent adaptations for Viva One include the University Series: The Rain in España, Safe Skies, Archer, Chasing in the Wild, Avenues of the Diamond, and Seducing Drake Palma. “This collaboration opens the door to bringing more bestselling

and beloved Filipino Wattpad stories to the screen—for fans in the Philippines and wherever Viva One is available,” said Ryan Benitez, development executive for Asia-Pacific and creator manager for Webtoon Productions. Viva chairman and CEO Vic del Rosario Jr. said the partnership shows the company’s commitment to showcasing Filipino storytelling for a global audience. The deal was negotiated by Valerie Del Rosario, president and COO of Studio Viva, and Daryl Kho, who leads business development in Southeast Asia for Webtoon Productions. Webtoon Productions, part of Webtoon Entertainment, Inc., has worked with Netflix, Sony Pictures Television, and other major studios. It specializes in developing TV shows, films, and books based on fan-driven intellectual property from Webtoon and Wattpad.

Diddy seeks pardon from Trump after prostitution conviction MUSIC mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, who is to be sentenced in October for his conviction on prostitution-related charges, is seeking a pardon from President Donald Trump, one of his lawyers said Tuesday. “It’s my understanding that we’ve reached out and had conversations in reference to a pardon,” Nicole Westmoreland told CNN in an interview. Trump has indicated, however, that he is unlikely to grant a pardon to the 55-year-old Combs. “I was very friendly with him. I got along with him great and he seemed like a nice guy,” Trump said in an interview on Friday with Newsmax. “I didn’t know him well, but when I ran for office, he was very hostile.” Asked if that meant he was not inclined to pardon Combs, Trump said: “I would say so, yeah.” A New York jury found Combs guilty last month of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. He was acquitted of racketeering and sex trafficking charges after a marathon trial in which he was accused of harrowing abuse. Sentencing has been set for Oct. 3. AFP An old photo shows Donald Trump (left) shaking hands with Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, who is currently seeking a presidential pardon

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025

Bringing smiles to the community

FRONT ROW

Clobbering is the sound from a god

Celebrity dentist Sam Bernardo celebrates birthday with dental mission

By Chong Ardivilla

Dr. Samantha Bernardo and her team with the hundreds of residents who participated in the free dental mission

By Angelica Villanueva

N A continuous effort to make dental care accessible to underserved communities, celebrity dentist Dr. Samantha Bernardo of Awesam Smile Dental Clinic recently hosted a free dental mission in Barangay Tumana, Marikina City, as part of her birthday celebration.

Now in its eighth year, the annual outreach, which began in 2017 as a small personal initiative initially focused on elderly residents in care homes, has since evolved into a broader program aimed at addressing long-standing gaps in oral health awareness and access among low-income Filipinos. “This year, we focused on preventive dentistry. We don’t want teeth to decay and end Dr. Samantha Bernardo leads her 8th up needing to be annual dental mission with Awesam Smile, extracted. That’s offering free services to over 1,500 children why we did fluoride in Marikina treatment, because fluoride helps strengthen our teeth,” explained Bernardo. More than 1,500 children received free dental services, including fluoride application, tooth extractions, and oral prophylaxis. To accommodate this, Bernardo’s team brought a mobile dental chair to the site. Parents accompanying their children were given grocery packs containing rice and basic necessities Bernardo also emphasized the importance of early education in dental care, pointing out that misconceptions and lack of information remain significant barriers. “We also gave dental education so that even at an early stage, we can guide the parents,” she said, explaining that parental involvement is crucial in shaping children’s oral hygiene habits— from proper tooth brushing techniques to knowing when to replace toothbrushes. She also acknowledged how deeply ingrained the neglect of oral health is in many communities—not due to apathy, but due to limited access and prioritization. “Honestly, in the Philippines, this isn’t really a priority for many. Usually, people only think about visiting the clinic when their tooth already hurts,” added Bernardo. According to Bernardo, this delayed approach often results in

Actress Kim Rodriguez joins the outreach to support the community dental drive

more severe dental problems, including extractions that could have been prevented with timely care. She noted that many Filipinos still underestimate the impact of oral health on overall well-being. “When a patient has a toothache, they can’t sleep—many aspects of life are affected. Problems with the temporomandibular joint can lead to lockjaw or even migraines,” she continued. To help encourage participation and reduce anxiety around dental care, she invited actress Kim Rodriguez and social media personality Boss Toyo to support the event. Bernardo explained that their presence helped ease fears often associated with dental visits. “Typically, people are afraid of the dentist. That’s why we want to make them feel comfortable,” said Bernardo. Reflecting on her journey, Bernardo shared that she began her practice with minimal resources. “When I started, I didn’t have much. I was the first dentist in the family, and I began working from home. It’s a different kind of joy when you’re able to help. It motivates me to keep working because there are so many people counting on me,” she shared. She also reiterated her commitment to continuing these outreach efforts and hinted at plans to expand. Her clinic is also developing a line of oral care products, beginning with toothbrushes, which she hopes will reach more communities in the coming years. “Right now, I’m really happy that I can help at this scale. And I’ve become an inspiration for others,” Bernardo stated.

Ralph Ineson lends his thunderous voice to Galactus in Marvel’s ‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (AI-generated image)

iWant to stream ‘PBB Collove’ concert live worldwide

PBB Celebrity Collab’ housemates (top row from left) Charlie Fleming, Mika Salamanca, Brent Manalo, River Joseph, (bottom row from right) Ralph de Leon, Will Ashley, and Esnyr Ranollo

ABS-CBN’s over-the-top media platform, iWant, will stream the highly anticipated PBB Collove concert live from the Smart Araneta Coliseum to global audiences this Sunday, Aug.

YOU might have read that the latest iteration of Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025, directed by Matt Shakman) is what the Marvel Cinematic Universe needs to get its act together. 2025 has been, so far, mostly a great year for superhero movies. Marvel Comics’ first family finally got a film adaptation that befits their stature. But special mention goes to Ralph Ineson, who depicted the world-devourer Galactus. Thus far, 2025 has produced the best comic book villain onscreen: Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor in James Gunn’s Superman. Luthor’s caustic monologue on envy and, for him, the inexplicable adulation for someone lesser than him—an alien Superman—is a masterclass of supervillainy. Yet Ineson adds a different texture—or rather, sound—to a superpowered, otherworldly villain. Galactus has had numerous tussles in the comics, which usually ended in his defeat. In the film adaptation, he was a weak link used to mark an alternate Earth for his feeding frenzy in general. The CGI of Galactus is astounding, but this only worked because of a voice spoken by Ineson. Ralph Ineson had bit parts in British films and TV. He made his mark in The Witch (2015, directed by Robert Eggers) as the patriarch ousted by the Puritan community in 1600s colonial America. It was his towering height and gravelly, almost supernatural voice that added to the sinister atmosphere of the movie. As Galactus, he used his voice and extended it into a vastness not usually achieved by other actors to sound like a hungry god who will eat anything he wants. In interviews, Ineson mentioned that he had to take into consideration the deity figure. In the movie, he sounded beyond the villainy of the genocidal maniac Thanos, beyond the malice of the sentient planet Ego. Ineson took his voice and made it all-encompassing. Galactus earlier appeared years ago in Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007), but he was just a funnel of a cosmic cloud. Galactus made flesh is the best thing in First Steps because he is more of a cosmic reckoning rather than a typical comic book villain. Yet, that might be too early to declare, because Robert Downey Jr. returns as Dr. Doom—who, in the comics, also became as powerful as Galactus, if not more. Aside from the sonorous voice of Galactus, what the film got perfectly is that this superhero group is, first and foremost, a family. The cast perfectly embodied the different idiosyncrasies of superheroes, truly delving into personal failings and insecurity: Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal) may ( be brilliant, but he cannot see the difference between a mistake and a miracle. Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) Moss-Bachrach has a simmering sense of monstrosity, but never really makes it pronounced like in earlier versions. Sue Richards (Vanessa Kirby) is the best addition to the pantheon of superheroes because she uses her mother figure as a primal matriarchal power to stand against Galactus. She did not even have to yell to subdue the sound of a god. You may reach Chong Ardivilla at kartunistatonto@ gmail.com or chonggo.bsky.social

along with Second Big Placer RAWI (Ralph De Leon and Will Ashley), Third Big Placer CHARES (Charlie Flemming and Esnyr Ranollo), and Fourth Big Placer AZVER (AZ

10, through its pay-per-view platform iWantTickets. The concert is headlined by the season’s Big Winner BREKA (Brent Manalo and Mika Salamanca),

Martinez and River Joseph), as they lead a once-in-a-lifetime celebration that breaks boundaries and unites fans around the world. Also joining the fancon are

celebrity housemates and performers from both networks, including Dustin Yu, Bianca de Vera, Klarisse de Guzman, Shuvee Etrata, Vince Maristela, Xyriel Manabat, Emilio Daez, Michael Sager, Kira Balinger, Josh Ford, AC Bonifacio, Ashley Ortega, and other surprise guests and performers. Audiences in the Philippines and 14 other territories, including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates, can access the livestream for P199 or $3.99 via tickets.iWantTFC.com.

BREKA, RAWI, CHARES, and AZVER lead the PBB Collove concert as the season’s Big 4

LIFE

C4 THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Wellness meets Filipino innovation at an intimate retreat in Batangas

Kaila Estrada champions early health habits among youth

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

KEEPING in mind that staying healthy should be part of a daily routine, actress K a i l a Estrada makes a conscious effort to prioritize her well-being to meet the demands of her career and personal goals. Known for her roles in Viral Scandal, Linlang, Can’t Buy Me Love, and the action series Incognito, Kaila shared Wellness advocate Kaila Estrada prioritizes her health that her day begins with a Maxene by drinking Santé BarleyMax simple but consistent habit: Magalona on an empty stomach daily drinking Santé BarleyMax on leads a sunrise to support nutrient absorption an empty stomach to support yoga session nutrient absorption. “I take care of my health because it is my real wealth,” she said. “As I try to maximize the opportunities being given to me, I also try to stay committed to staying healthy and encouraging other young adults to do the same.” Kaila, who has opened up in past interviews about finding balance through discipline and self-awareness, said health should be a priority, especially for younger people. “We need to commit to doing things our future selves will be grateful for,” she added. Her personal approach to wellness includes getting enough rest, maintaining a nutritious diet, and finding time to reset despite a busy filming schedule. Now, as she continues to speak about the From left: Pinky Tobiano, importance of holistic well-being, Kaila has Frederic Daudou, and Yeng Constantino-Asuncion pose been named the latest celebrity ambassador together for a photo of Santé BarleyMax. She joins Kim Atienza, Vic Sotto, and Vice Ganda in the brand’s From left: Joyce Mariano, Pinky Tobiano, Toni Sia, Karrel Tobiano Sinfuego, ongoing #LiveForMore campaign, launched and Kingzie Sia grace the event at The Farm at San Benito in time for Santé’s 18th anniversary. gut health, manage cholesterol, aid fatty liver Made from certified organic barley grass N THE heart of nature, repair, and assist with weight control. powder sourced from New Zealand, Santé the world-renowned Founded by actress Julia Montes alongside BarleyMax is marketed as a daily health chemist Pinky Tobiano, Karrel Sinfuego, The Farm at San Benito supplement that supports sleep, nutrition, Mac Merla, and Juancho Robles, Swiss Proli detoxification, and balance, even on busy in Lipa, Batangas, Natural champions evidence-based wellness days. served as the perfect venue Santé said Kaila’s commitment to wellness and her influence among younger Filipinos for an intimate wellness made her a natural choice for the campaign. retreat hosted by Swiss Proli The product is available in major drugstores Natural. nationwide.

The tranquil weekend at the serene wellness resort celebrated holistic health and Filipino innovation. Guests were invited to slow down and rediscover the art of living well—the healthy and natural way. The intimate event witnessed Swiss Proli Natural introduce its latest health supplement, Lean Quick. It is a locally developed apple cider vinegar gummy enriched with Vitamin C, folic acid, and B12. It was designed to support

with proudly Filipino roots. Guests were welcomed by The Farm’s owner Raj Uttamchandani and general manager Frederick DouDou, setting the tone for a weekend of mindful experiences and quiet luxury. Highlights of the soft launch included an elegant apple-themed dinner prepared by The Farm’s culinary team, a sunrise yoga session led by wellness advocate Maxene Magalona, and thoughtful moments designed to encourage rest and reflection. Among the familiar faces who graced the event were Yeng Constantino, Toni Sia, Will Devaughn, Markki Stroem, Yuki Takahashi, Bubbles Paraiso, Teacher Georcelle (GForce), Ruby Chin, Sam Corrales, Kingzie Sia, and Frank Briones. Guests were treated to curated wellness kits, personal touches, and a first look at what Swiss Proli calls a new era of Filipino-led health solutions, which focus on living well through science, intention, and care. With its Filipino roots and science-backed approach, Swiss Proli Natural is aiming to position itself as a homegrown brand making wellness both aspirational and accessible.

Swiss Proli Natural treats guests with a weekend of mindful experiences at The Farm at San Benito

Inside the Japanese hair Salon that’s taking over Manila

NORA salon specializes in ‘milktea’ hair color, 3D layering, and highlights using premium Japanese products

NORA Hair Salon founder Hidekazu Ando (Ando-san) delivers sharp cuts and flawless coloring techniques that are always ahead of global trends

EVER heard of a Kami-Charisma-recognized hair salon? Think Michelin-star standards, but for hairstyling. That’s exactly what NORA Hair Salon brings to the table: a slice of Tokyo in the heart of Manila. With roots in Japan and a cult following back home, NORA is one of the few salons repeatedly featured in the prestigious Kami Charisma Japanese Hair Salon Guide, the country’s ultimate seal of excellence in hairstyling. Founded in Aoyama, Tokyo, in 2007,

NORA has grown to 12 locations in Japan and three in the Philippines, with more on the way. Inspired by A Doll’s House heroine Nora, who redefined the modern woman, the salon aims to empower women through beauty and transformation. So, what makes a visit to NORA different? For starters, it’s not just about the haircut. Japanese precision is at the core of everything. From detailed consultations to custom styles based on face shape and personal goals, the staff, led by founder Hidekazu Ando (fondly called Ando-san), delivers sharp cuts and flawless coloring techniques that are always a step ahead of global trends. Want that soft, dreamy “milktea” color before everyone else has it? NORA’s already been doing it. The salon also specializes in 3D layering and highlights—think natural movement and effortless depth—minus the damage, thanks to premium Japanese products like Milbon. Even shampooing is an art form. NORA elevates the humble rinse with full-blown massage treatments designed to stimulate blood flow and even promote lifting effects. “We strive to make shampooing a relaxing and

special moment,” says Ando-san. A Kyoto native with over 30 years of experience, Ando-san is not just a master stylist—he’s a licensed instructor, having trained in Japan, the U.S., and China. In the Philippines, he leads a team of equally skilled professionals, all committed to the Japanese standard of service: respectful, detail-oriented, and always aiming to exceed expectations. NORA’s growth in the Philippines is backed by Techno Holdings Corporation, led by businessman William “Bill” Stelton, who also heads The Bistro Group. Two more NORA branches are set to open this year, including a hairstylist training academy called NORA Lab launching at Shangri-La Plaza. Current branches include Legaspi Street in Makati, SM North EDSA Annex, and Robinsons Place Manila. NORA Hair Salon currently operates three locations in the Philippines: Legaspi Street in Makati, SM North EDSA Annex, and Robinsons Place Manila. Appointments can be made by contacting their respective hotlines. To see the salon’s signature transformations, visit their Instagram page @norahairsalon.manila.