ing review of the 1987 Constitution and correct “enduring ambiguities” and deficiencies that weaken its legal foundations and undermine its reliability as the nation’s supreme law.
7.
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Department of Finance (DOF) is considering a ban on governmentowned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs) from investing in online gambling firms.
“I think that makes a good policy,” Finance Secretary Ralph Recto told reporters on the sidelines of the EJAP
P3,999,801,063.43
P5,794,777,137.84
60 P4,371,973,515.33 60 P5,258,979,677.17
P5,225,681,315.28
P4,628,050,538.92
15 firms got P100b flood-control deals
PBBM notes disturbing assessment, says ‘a little painful’ probe may include allies
By Charles Dantes
SOME 15 contractors cornered almost P100 billion – or about 20 percent of the total amount of flood-control projects across the country – from July 2022 to May 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said.
In a press conference yesterday, Mr. Marcos bared the initial findings of the audit he ordered in his recent SONA will give the public “an idea of how these (flood-control projects) have been conducted.”
‘’The total cost of all of the projects since July 2022 until today is P545 bil-
lion. I don’t know about you but that is a very big number. By any measure, that is an enormous number,’’ he said as he launched the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” website where the public can report their observations on flood-control projects in their respective areas.
By Charles Dantes, Fraye Cedrick Anona and Katrina Manubay
NO SENATORS were involved with the 15 contractors identified by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as having cornered close to P100 billion worth or a fifth of the total flood-control projects in the country, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva on Monday said.
“I can only speak for this (Upper) house, not the other house. And as far as I’m concerned as the majority leader of the Senate, I don’t see any senators involved in any of these 15 construction firms,” Villanueva said in a press conference.
Asked if he believes there are members of the House of Representatives who are involved in infrastructure contracts, Villanueva said: “It’s easy to confirm that. I will just give you documents. They can speak better on the issue.”
Chinese ships collide while harassing PCG vessel
By Rex Espiritu
A CHINESE Navy warship and a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel collided with each other early Monday morning while attempting to bully a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) patrol craft in a deadly cat-and-mouse game approxi-
mately 10.5 nautical miles east of Panatag Shoal.
“This resulted in substantial damage to the CCG vessel’s forecastle, rendering it unseaworthy,” Commodore Jay Tarriela, the PCG’s spokesperson on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) said shortly after the incident.
He pointed out that despite Chinese forces’ aggressive tactics, the PCG still offered assistance to the crew of the damaged Chinese vessel, particularly with man-overboard recovery and medical aid for any injured CCG crew members.
Economic Forum 2025, when asked if the agency planned to prohibit GOCCs from investing in gambling companies. Recto was responding to the P1billion investment the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) had made in DigiPlus Interactive Corp. He said the Finance Department is currently investigating GSIS’s invest
By Rio N.
Araja
By Othel V. Campos
SUMBONG SA PANGULO. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. speaks during a press briefing where he launched the sumbongsapangulo.ph, website where citizens can directly report to the President on the status of government flood control projects in their areas. PCO
FRIENDLIES COLLIDE. A China Coast Guard (CCG) ship pursuing
Since he assumed office in July 2022 until May this year, the Department of Public Works and Highways implemented at least 9,885 flood-control projects.
Mr. Marcos said some 6,021 projects worth more than P350 billion did not specify the exact type of flood control structures to be constructed or rehabilitated, while others had identical designs and materials.
“This is another disturbing assessment... This is the first step. We have to keep on going. We have to clean up nice,” he said. “It is impossible for one barangay to have the same projects, with the exact same amount, with the exact same contractor…That is impossible.”
“It might be a little painful. Some involved might be people close to us, but
our kababayan are closer to our hearts,” the President added.
Based on the data uploaded in the “Isumbong sa Pangulo” website, while the top 15 contractors handled only about 1,209 projects, these were worth P95.56 billion, or about onefifth of the total cost of all the floodcontrol projects.
Legacy Construction Corporation was listed as the top contractor with 133 projects for a total of P9.558 billion. Its biggest project in terms of budget was the construction of the Dubduban Flood Control Structure in San Agustin, Tablas Island in Romblon worth P289.49 million. Sunwest, Inc., which was ranked eighth, handled 79 projects but had a bigger total budget of P10.147 billion.
In terms of the project with the highest budget, Royal Crown Monarch Construction & Supplies Corp. handled the construction of the Camiling-Agno River Floodway in Tarlac Phase 3 worth
P289.5 million.
“We are not accusing anyone of anything yet,” Mr. Marcos said. “I need to hear from people first. It will be premature for me to name names.”
“We have to be careful about this. We have to get to the bottom. We want the people who have taken advantage of the system to pay. Let’s be circumspect about pointing fingers and shouting at people.”
“We will still go through every single complaint, whether justified or not…Let’s be fair to everyone and not remove someone from their job unless we have a good idea of what went wrong,” he added.
The President noted that based on available data, the top 10 provinces with the most number of flood-control projects are Bulacan (668 projects), Cebu (414 projects), Isabela (314 projects), Pangasinan (313 projects), Pampanga (292 projects), Albay (273 projects), Leyte
(262 projects), Tarlac (258 projects), Camarines Sur (252 projects), and Ilocos Norte (224 projects).
In terms of regions, Central Luzon had the most number of projects worth P98.01 billion, followed by Metro Manila with P52.57 billion, and Bicol Region with P49.61 billion.
But of the top 10 flood-prone provinces, only Pampanga, Bulacan, Tarlac, Pangasinan, Metro Manila and Ilocos Norte got the greatest number of floodcontrol projects.
Rounding up the top 10 floodprone provinces are Nueva Ecija, Maguindanao, North Cotabato and Oriental Mindoro.
“I think you will notice they do not necessarily match. I’m sure there are explanations for that. We have to study this further but you could intuitively say the most flood-prone should have the most number of flood-control projects. We have to see why this (mismatch) happened,” the President said.
This confrontation took place as the PCG‘s BRP Teresa Magbanua and BRP Suluan, along with MV Pamamalakaya, were carrying out the “Kadiwa Para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda (KBBM)” initiative.
During the operation, Philippine vessels and fishermen encountered hazardous maneuvers and blocking actions from Chinese seacraft in the vicinity.
In particular, the MRRV 4406 was targeted with a water cannon and reckless maneuvers, but the seamanship skills of PCG crew members allowed the Philippine vessel to remain unscathed, Tarriela stressed.
Meanwhile, the MRRV 9701 safely escorted the Filipino fishermen to a secure location, where they are now being provided with fuel and essential supplies.
ment in DigiPlus. “We’re looking into it. What I only know is about GSIS,” he added.
At the same time, Recto said he is considering increasing taxes on online gambling to generate more revenue.
“Today, if the rate is 30 percent, is it possible to bring that up to 35 percent or 40 percent and so on and so forth? We’ll have to consult with the other agencies,” Recto said.
He added that this would not require legislation, as the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) could implement the change.
Recto said PAGCOR is collecting at least P100 billion in gaming revenues, with about P50 billion coming from online gaming.
“I would prefer, and if you can’t stop it... I prefer what the BSP [Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas] is doing with new regulations to make it difficult for young people to gamble through their cell phones, through the use of wallets,” Recto said.
He added that 40 percent of online gaming firms are regulated, while 60 percent are informal or unregulated, and reiterated that government employees should be prohibited from online gaming.
The BSP earlier said it is finalizing new rules to protect consumers from the risks associated with online gambling.
Strict identity verification, including biometric checks such as facial recognition, would ensure that only eligible individuals can use their funds for online gambling, the BSP said.
Daily limits on gambling-related transfers to reduce excessive financial losses will also be included in the new rules.
The BSP said the upcoming measures would also include time-based restrictions on gambling payments to help curb impulsive behavior, as well as user tools for setting personal spending caps, taking voluntary breaks, or self-exclusion from gambling transactions.
Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong earlier alleged that some lawmakers are involved with contractors and get kickbacks of as much as 40 percent from flood-control projects.
House Committee on Public Accounts chairperson and Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Terry Ridon said they will invite Magalong next week for their probe into the government’s flood control projects.
“Mayor Magalong has been alleging that lawmakers are pocketing kickback off government projects. He can attend our probe and we will give him the invitation, provided that he should be able to name the lawmakers…He will have to do it under oath,” Ridon said.
Navotas Rep. Tobias Tiangco, for his part, said the President’s disclosure that 6,021 flood-control projects worth over P350 billion lack basic details was alarming and unacceptable.
“This raises serious questions about fairness, transparency, and potential corruption in project implementation. As the representative of Navotas, a city that is below sea level, I know firsthand what’s at stake. Our people endure risi ng waters, damaged homes, disrupted livelihoods, and threats to health and safety,” he said.
“Every peso wasted or misused on flood control is a betrayal of communities like ours. We cannot and will not allow critical infrastructure to become a playground for inefficiency or worse, corruption. I fully support the President’s directive to audit and clean up these programs, and I urge all agencies, contractors, and local officials to cooperate without delay,” Tiangco added.
Villanueva, for his part, said it is up to the President to decide whether Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan should step aside amid the investigation.
“If the President feels that Bonoan still enjoys his trust and confidence, then there’s nothing we can do about it. What’s important is that the investigation be impartial,”
Meanwhile, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto revealed that the Discayas own two of the top 15 contractors of flood-control projects identified by the President.
In a Facebook post, Sotto revealed that two companies -- Alpha & Omega Gen. Contractor & Development Corp. and St. Timothy Construction Corporation are all owned and controlled by the Discayas, the family of his political rival Sarah Discaya in the May elections.
“For the LGU’s part, first, we will send to the President all of the information and red flags that we see. Second, we will continue the cases against these people so that we can collect the mil-
lions if not billions of pesos that they owe the LGU in business taxes,” he said
Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu, in a separate statement, noted that the same two contractors are currently implementing large-scale flood mitigation works in the city under the Iloilo City District Engineering Office (ICDEO).
Based on the status report submitted to her office by the ICDEO, St. Timothy Construction Corporation had bagged a total of P425 million worth of projects.
However, only the construction of sections 1 and 2 of the flood mitigation structure in Lapuz district, totaling P300 million, is ongoing. Section 1 of another similar project worth P125 million with no specific address was suspended as of June 9, 2025 “due to obstructions.”
The Alpha & Omega General Contractor & Development Corp, on the other hand, is implementing section 2 of the Iloilo Comprehensive Flood Mitigation Project with a programmed amount of P150 million.
It is targeted for completion on March 24, 2026, but no specific address was mentioned in the report.
“These projects are either non-functional, have caused flooding, or are, in some cases, practically non-existent. Flooding has brought severe and repeated suffering to our communities, especially during heavy rains and typhoons,” Treñas said.
“The Philippine Coast Guard reaffirms its dedication to safeguarding all maritime operations in the area and wishes for the swift recovery and proper treatment of any affected CCG personnel,” Tarriela said. Earlier, a WPS monitoring group reported a “very heavy” concentration of Chinese vessels off Scarborough shoal,
“The Philippines is carrying out an apparent Kadiwa mission near Scarborough Shoal today,” said SeaLight director Ray Powell in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Powell said the mission consisted of government-owned fish carrier M/V Mamalakaya, escorted by the PCG’s BRP Teresa Magbanua and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources’ BRP Datu Romapanet. He reported that the convoy “is encountering a very heavy flotilla of People’s Republic of China vessels,” apparently deployed to enforce a 25to 30-nautical-mile exclusion zone around Scarborough Shoal.
There are “at least” seven China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels and 14 maritime militia ships—with automatic identification systems turned on—within the vicinity of the shoal, according to Powell.
The maritime version of the “Kadiwa” program was launched last May.
The MV Mamalakaya, which was deployed for this specific task, made its maiden voyage near the shoal in May to interact with Filipino fishermen, purchasing their catch and offering fuel subsidies, Tarriela said.
On Monday, President Marcos said the Philippines will not back down in asserting its rights over the WPS, following reports that two BFAR vessels were water-cannoned by Chinese vessels in Bajo de Masinloc.
Manila Standard, dismissed the motion for reconsideration filed by Dengvaxia distributor Zuellig Pharma Corp. and manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur Inc. while sustaining at the same time its Nov. 25, 2024 decision.
“Upon careful review, we find that the arguments and issues by Zuellig in its motion for reconsideration are mere rehash of the very same arguments and issues that have already been settled and resolved in the decision dated Nov. 25, 2025 being sought to be reconsidered,” the resolution stated, penned by Associate Justice Mary Charlene Hernandez-Azura.
Associate Justices Emily Alino-Ge-
luz and Roberto Quiroz concurred with the resolution.
Petitioners Zuellig and Sanofi sought the appellate court’s ruling as they questioned the decision of the RTC consolidating the cases of heirs Ian Colite and Ariel Hedia, asserting that the requirements for consolidation were not present, and that consolidation would be prejudicial to their rights.
“All told, public respondent (RTC Branch 230) did not commit grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction when it issued the assailed orders (consolidation of cases),” the appellate court’s previous ruling read.
The CA justices explained that the purpose of the consolidation was to avoid multiplicity of suits, guard against oppression and abuse, prevent delays, clear congested dockets, and
simplify the work of the trial court.
“In short, consolidation aims to attain justice with the least expense and vexation to the parties-litigants,” the new order stated.
“All the cases are intimately related as they involve the alleged irregular procurement of the Dengvaxia vaccine and its eventual alleged improper implementation during the Dengvaxia immunization program by the DOH (Department of Health), the alleged negligence of the defendants and petitioners relative to its registration, purchase and subsequent administration of the Dengvaxia vaccine,” it added.
The Public Attorney’s Office handling the civil cases filed by the kin of school children whose deaths were linked to the Dengvaxia vaccine hailed the latest CA’s resolution.
“We have never instructed our vessels to back out. I don’t know about other places, but in this government, we don’t fall back from a fight.. We Filipinos are brave,” the President said.
The CCG’s so-called “exclusion zone enforcement” was deemed a direct defiance of the 2016 arbitral ruling, which recognized Scarborough Shoal as a traditional fishing ground shared by the Philippines, China, and Vietnam.
Local authorities said at least two CCG vessels have remained stationed near the lagoon at all times, blocking PCG ships and Filipino fishermen from coming close.
However, during rough weather, the Chinese vessels reportedly left the Scarborough Shoal territory.
outsourcing local assembly, testing and packaging.
“We’re hoping they view the work we do here as part of the production chain that they don’t want to do in America,” he said at the sidelines of the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines (EJAP) economic forum at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.
Go said the US government has yet to be clear on how it plans to implement the proposed 100-percent tariff on electronic exports.
“Up to today, it’s still a gray space. We are still seeking clarification from the US and lobbying for our semiconductor exports to be exempted if there is such,” he said.
He said that other countries are making similar exemption requests and ac-
knowledged the slow pace of communication with US authorities, with over 150 countries seeking clarification.
Go said the government’s goal is to secure a predictable business environment despite the possible imposition of a 19-percent tariff.
He said a level playing field would allow the country to compete based on its strengths, including a skilled workforce, the CREATE MORE Act, the PPP Act and expedited “green lane” investment procedures.
Go said while no major deals have been sealed yet, he pointed to the country’s latest 5.5-percent GDP growth as a sign of resilience amid global uncertainty.
“In an environment of unpredictability, 5.5-percent GDP growth is quite remarkable. It’s very difficult for businesses to make long-term investment decisions, but we are holding our ground,” he said.
In a privilege speech, Puno described the Con-Con as “the most prudent, transparent, and participatory mechanism” to address vague provisions and institute needed reforms.
“While the provisions of our Constitution are noble in aspiration, certain provisions are marked by ambiguity and procedural deficiency,” Puno said.
“These deficiencies do not merely complicate interpretation; they obstruct reform, hinder effective governance, and erode public trust.”
Puno stressed his proposal “is not a call to discard the Constitution. It is a call to complete and correct it.”
The NUP, chaired by Puno, has 44 House members, making it the secondlargest political party in the chamber, next to Lakas-CMD.
According to Puno, a Con-Con allows the people, “through their chosen delegates, to correct textual deficiencies, reconcile contradictions, remove ambiguities, institutionalize muchneeded reform, and ensure that the foundational law meets the needs of a dynamic and democratic society.”
He said a Con-Con, unlike a constituent assembly, ensures “singularity of purpose,” freeing delegates from being distracted by lawmaking, oversight, and impeachment concerns. “Conflict of interest would be avoided, broader representation guaranteed, and the risk of political expediency reduced,” he added.
Puno cited several instances where ambiguous provisions weakened the Charter’s legal foundations, including: Article XI, Section 3(4) on impeachment, where the meaning of “forthwith” became a source of deadlock and controversy; Article VIII, Section 8 on the Judicial and Bar Council, which fails to clarify rep-
resentation from a bicameral legislature; Article VI, Section 28(4) and Article VII, Section 19, which leave unclear whether voting should be joint or separate; and Article X, Section 8, which has allowed repeated postponements of barangay elections, eroding local democratic accountability.
“A Constitution that allows repeated legislative interference in electoral timelines, without limit, is a Constitution vulnerable to manipulation,” Puno warned. The renewed push for Charter change comes amid political friction in the Senate over the issue.
Senate President Francis Escudero criticized Senate Minority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III for saying he would consider supporting constitutional amendments if the Supreme Court upholds its ruling to junk the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte despite pending motions for reconsideration.
Comelec eyes
October rollout of e-registration
By Vito Barcelo
THE Commission on Elections
(Comelec) is planning to launch e-registration or online registration in October if the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) are postponed to December.
Comelec chairperson George Erwin Garcia made the statement after reports that some registrants fainted during last week’s ten-day nationwide voter registration drive.
“We currently have the online registration system and the authority to use it. However, its importance was not highlighted. We will improve and strengthen it,” Garcia said.
Under the e-registration system, applicants will submit their forms online and receive a schedule to visit their local Comelec office for their photos, fingerprints, and oathtaking.
Garcia stressed that while registration can start online, applicants must still appear in person for biometric data capture.
Meanwhile, more than 2.7 million Filipinos registered for the 2025 BSKE — an increase compared to the last elections. Garcia described the event as “the most successful voter registration in history,” noting that 65% to 67% of registrants were young voters.
“Overall, the registration process was generally peaceful. Once more, we reiterate, this is the most successful registration in the entire history of the Commission, of the registration process, and of our elections,” he said.
Oil companies roll back fuel prices on Tuesday
By Alena Mae S. Flores
OIL companies rolled back pump prices by as much as ₱1.50 per liter effective 6 a.m. Tuesday, reflecting lower global oil prices.
Diesel prices dropped by ₱1.50 per liter, kerosene by ₱1.30, and gasoline by ₱0.40. The rollback follows increased production from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and continued uncertainty over U.S. trade policies.
Seaoil Philippines, Cleanfuel, and Jetti Petroleum announced the adjustments, with other firms expected to follow. Jetti Petroleum president Leo Bellas attributed the rollback to weaker global prices, boosted supply from China, and expectations of a diplomatic resolution to the war in Ukraine.
Losses were limited by a largerthan-expected draw in U.S. crude oil stockpiles, strong Chinese crude imports in July, and higher Saudi prices for Asia. The Department of Energy estimated similar price cuts: gasoline down ₱0.25, diesel down ₱1.25, and kerosene down ₱1.20 per liter. The rollback comes after a hike on Aug. 5, when prices rose by ₱1.90 for gasoline, ₱1.20 for diesel, and ₱1 for kerosene due to lower U.S. gasoline inventories and strong summer demand.
WPS AWARENESS
DRIVE.
PBBM welcomes Ang offer to address metro flooding
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday welcomed San Miguel Corp. (SMC) president and chief executive officer Ramon Ang’s proposal to help address flooding in the National Capital Region (NCR), citing the businessman’s track record in completing infrastructure projects on time.
“This is why from the very beginning I always said the private sector needs to be part of our national development,” Mr. Marcos told reporters. “Ramon Ang’s proposal is certainly very welcome… we’ve seen his projects, and the results are good.”
The President said Ang had previously briefed him on the plan, which includes desilting waterways in Metro Manila. However, Ang emphasized that local government units (LGUs) must address garbage disposal, as flood control will not work without sustainable waste
management. Mr. Marcos noted that Manila already has a waste-to-energy proposal that could serve as a model for other flood-prone areas if proven effective. He also expressed openness to Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson’s suggestion to involve other billionaires in tackling flooding.
“You don’t look a gift horse in the mouth. If they are ready to help, they help,” Mr. Marcos said, adding that prominent business leaders have historically supported government projects. He said any proposals will require coordination between LGUs and private firms like SMC, citing Ang’s ongoing Pasig River desilting project as an example.
Echague hosts 5th Mango Congress
By Brenda Jocson
ECHAGUE, Isabela—The municipality of Echague hosted the 5th Luzon Mango Congress from August 7 to 8, 2025, at the Isabela State University Main Campus, focusing on modernization and innovation in carabao mango production.
The event, organized with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Department of Trade and Industry, gathered stakeholders nationwide to discuss quality production for domestic and export markets.
Cebu Air Inc., the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Region 2, and the local government sponsored the congress, which was attended by 727 delegates from various provinces.
Topics included mango supply chain development, post-harvest technologies, and market insights.
Local scientists highlighted the carabao mango as the country’s third most important fruit crop, supporting 2.5 million smallholder growers, and cited opportunities in export markets.
DA Regional Executive Director Dr. Rose Mary Aquino presented research on balanced fertilization, pest management, and rejuvenation technology, which increased mango yields by up to 77.78% and boosted returns on investment — with Cagayan posting the highest at 258%.
Mayor Faustino “Inno” Dy said the congress would encourage farmers to adopt modern technologies to increase productivity and create business opportunities. “The addition of mango volume will be highly appreciated by local consumers and provide much-needed income for our mango tree owners,” he said.
IN BRIEF
Navy seizes P13m worth of smuggled cigarettes
THE Philippine Navy intercepted a motorboat carrying an estimated ₱13.09 million worth of undocumented tobacco products off the coast of Sulu on August 5, the Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC) said. The motorboat Rhomar Khayri (also marked Romar Khayri), with four crew members on board, was spotted around 3.8 nautical miles east of Teomabal Island, Hadji Panglima Tahil, at about 10:30 p.m. The operation, conducted in coordination with the Bureau of Customs (BOC), was part of intensified patrols against smuggling in the Sulu and Celebes Seas. Authorities recovered 226 master cases of assorted cigarette brands. These included 149 cases of Champion valued at ₱8.54 million, 57 cases of New Berlin worth ₱3.27 million, 16 cases of New Far Red valued at ₱916,800, and four cases of New Far Green worth ₱229,200. Rex Espiritu
Pinoy books take center stage at Frankfurt fair
THE Philippines will be the Guest of Honor at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair, the largest and most significant publishing event worldwide, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) said Monday. The event will serve as a platform for Filipino narratives to be shared globally and elevate stories wherever they are read, written, or conceived.
CFO Secretary Dante “Klink” Ang II recognized the program’s potential to serve Filipino communities overseas and proposed a collaboration between the National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the CFO’s network of 34 Philippine Schools Overseas. He pledged to facilitate partnerships and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to promoting Filipino identity and culture abroad. Vito Barcelo
QC launches anti-bullying campaign in schools
THE Quezon City government on Monday launched a comprehensive anti-bullying campaign called B.A.D. (Bullying at Diskriminasyon) ‘Yan! to combat bullying in both public and private schools.
Mayor Joy Belmonte said the program reaffirms the city’s commitment to ensuring that schools are places of growth, not fear.
“Every student deserves to learn in an environment where they are respected, heard, and protected,” Belmonte said. “With this new campaign, we reaffirm our commitment to stand by our children and ensure their voices are never silenced by bullying.”
The campaign aims to raise awareness, encourage reporting, and strengthen interventions for cases of bullying and discrimination. It addresses not only physical and verbal bullying but also cyberbullying, which has become a growing concern among students, parents, and educators. Rio N. Araja
MANGO CONGRESS. Local officials pose at the 5th Luzon Mango Congress in Echague, Isabela, hosted by Isabela State University on August 7-8, 2025, to promote innovations and modernization in carabao mango production.
INTERCEPTED. Members of the Philippine Navy intercept a motorboat carrying P13.09 million worth of undocumented cigarettes off the coast of Sulu on August 5, the Western Mindanao Naval Command reported.
IN BRIEF
PH stars in Frankfurt
Book Fair, CFO says THE Philippines will take center stage at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair, reputedly the largest and most significant publishing event worldwide.
The forum will provide a platform for Filipino narratives to be shared globally and to elevate Filipino stories, no matter where they are read, written, or conceived, according to the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO).
CFO Secretary Dante Ang II recognized the potentials of the program to serve Filipino communities overseas, and raised the possibility of collaboration between the National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the CFO’s network of 34 Philippine Schools Overseas. Vito Barcelo
DOTr, MMDA join hands in clearing ops
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Monday conducted a joint clearing operation to get rid of illegal vendors and other obstructions on a walkway connecting the MRT-3 and LRT-1 EDSA Rotunda stations in Pasay City.
The operation, led by DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon and MMDA Special Operations Group-Strike Force chief Gabriel Go, was part of the government’s effort to curb illegal parking, ambulant peddling, and other obstructions that block pedestrian lanes.
Dizon said his agency is working with the MMDA to ensure that the MRT-3’s north and southbound walkways are clean and free of obstructions, thereby facilitating the seamless flow of train passengers and pedestrians. Joel E. Zurbano
High tide, not rains, floods Malabon City
MALABON City officials have suspended face-to-face classes in several schools on Monday, Aug. 11, due to flooding caused by high tide. The affected schools have shifted to the Alternative Delivery Mode (ADM) – Asynchronous setup of instructions. Covered by the suspension order were Camus Integrated School, Tanong Integrated School, Dela Paz Elementary School, Malabon National High School, Malabon Elementary School, and Malabon City Mathematics and Science High School.
The city government advised parents and students to coordinate with their respective class advisers for learning materials and further instructions. Rex Espiritu
House bill grants equitable pay, security of tenure for journalists
By Maricel V. Cruz
AGROUP of lawmakers have filed a bill granting media practitioners the rights equitable to those enjoyed by government and private sector workers, such as security of tenure, hazard and overtime pay, mandatory additional insurance coverage, and other job-related benefits.
Camarines Sur congressmen
Miguel Luis Villafuerte, Luigi Villafuerte, and Tsuyoshi Anthony Horibata, along with Bicol Saro partylist Rep. Terry Ridon, introduced the “Media Workers’ Welfare Act”
guaranteeing rights of journalists to self-organization and additional economic benefits enjoyed by other workers, and to establish a safe, protected atmosphere conducive to their productive, free and fruitful work.
“Media workers serve as frontliners in ensuring public information, promoting freedom of the press and expression, and upholding democracy, hence contributing to shaping public discourse and act as watchdogs in government accountability issues that, at times, jeopardize their safety and security,” House Bill (HB) 1985 read.
“But despite their significant role in our society and the nature of their work, “media workers face a wide array of labor standards and protection issues in the country,” it added.
“These include contractualization,
DSWD sets up desks to help kids with travel issues
THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has opened round-the-clock help desks for its minors traveling abroad (MTA) service in major international airports nationwide.
The setup aims to provide immediate assistance to Filipino minors with travel clearance concerns.
DSWD assistant secretary Ada Colico, head of the agency’s Protective Programs, said operations of the MTA help desks started last July 29 at the Davao International Airport (DIA), followed by the opening of the help desk at the Mactan-Cebu Inter-
national Airport (MCIA) on July 31, and at the Clark International Airport (CIA) on August 5.
“The MTA help desk operates 24/7 to provide in-person assistance for urgent concerns regarding travel clearance for minors who have been offloaded or prevented from boarding their flights due to documentary problems,” Colico said.
A travel clearance is required for minors or individuals below 18 years old travelling alone overseas.
Colico emphasized the significance of securing a travel clearance for minors as part of the government’s cam-
Asia-Pacific
paign to prevent child trafficking.
“We continue to remind parents or guardians to properly secure travel clearance for children traveling outside the country ahead of time. This document is vital to ensure the safety of Filipino kids who are visiting relatives abroad, or studying or attending competitions overseas,” Colico said.
The issuance of travel clearances for children is specified under the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act and the Philippine Passport Act of 1996. Maricel V. Cruz
IHL confab opens in Makati
By Katrina Manubay
THE Department of Foreign Affairs
(DFA, in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), on Monday opened Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in Makati City.
With the theme “Galvanising Commitment to International Humanitarian Law: Challenges and Opportunities in the Asia Pacific Region,” the convention gathered together delegates from at least 30 countries in the region.
“The Philippines plays a vital role in the global IHL initiative because the Philippines’ geo-statistical location places it in both precarious situation and at a dangerous position. We are in the best position to uphold internation-
al law, including IHL, and strengthen partnerships and foster collaboration among like-minded partners,” Defense Undersecretary Irineo Espino said in his opening remarks.
Judge Raul Pangalangan , a former judge at the International Criminal Court (ICC) and a Permanent Court of Arbitration member, also noted that Asia was previously the least represented in the ICC.
“More than 10 years ago, when I joined the ICC, one of the biggest criticisms of the court was that all of its defendants came from only one place, Africa. It really looked bad. It was difficult to defend the court. The optics were terrible. Mercifully, today, a decade afterwards, things have changed. The ICC, in fact, has cases from all over the world,” Pagalangan said.
lack of security of tenure, and dangerous working conditions,” the proponents of the measure said.
In line with the government’s responsibility to protect Filipino media practitioners and effort toward the realization of these constitutional mandates, the authors of HB 1985 said their proposed law ensures that journalists receive a minimum wage, overtime pay, night shift premiums, hazard pay, and other forms of compensation provided by the Labor Code of the Philippines and other related laws and issuances.
DILG heightens barangay-based clean-up drives
By Vince Lopez
THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has reported that more than 133 million kilograms of garbage have been collected nationwide through the KALINISAN (Kalinga at Inisyatiba para sa Malinis na Bayan) Program launched in January 2024. The program mobilizes local governments and communities for regular clean-ups under a renewed spirit of self-help or bayanihan. It addresses solid waste management while directly supporting flood prevention efforts by clearing waterways, drainage systems, and public spaces of clog-causing debris and plastic wastes.
A key component of the initiative, the Barangay at Kalinisan Day (BARKADA), mandates weekly clean-ups in every village, often held every Saturday.
From Jan.6, 2024, to May 3, 2025, over 22,000 barangays have cleaned around four million sites nationwide. These activities involved about 500,000 participants weekly, including 166,000 barangay officials. The program ensures proper waste disposal through segregation, transport to transfer stations, recycling in materials recovery facilities, and composting.
Initiatives like Palit Basura promote waste-to-goods exchange, while composted fertilizer supports community gardens.
These measures prevent plastics and other clog-causing trash from getting into waterways, thereby mitigating the risk of urban flooding.
KALINISAN is more than a clean-up drive. It is a disaster risk reduction, public health, and nation-building strategy— proving that clean communities are safer, healthier, and more resilient against floods, disease, and disorder, officials said.
ROGER THAT. Noveleta, Cavite Mayor Davey Chua and Vice Mayor Dino Chua hand out portable radio communication devices to the town’s 16 barangays under the Association of Barangay Captains Federation led by Jun Sidocon as president. Dennis Abrina
TEENAGE PAGEANT. Mister and Miss Teen World Philippines welcomes the 2025 candidates during a ceremony at the Café La Manila in historic Escolta, Binondo, Manila. Richmond Chi
OPINION
I am a victim of fake news
SO MANY fake news have come out lately, especially on controversial issues, like the decision of the Supreme Court that the House of Representatives violated the Constitution by filing Articles of Impeachment which did not comply with the one-year bar rule.
That is the problem now of media influencers like me, a columnist who has been writing opinions for seven decades.
In my early days as a journalist and columnist I did not have much trouble with news relayed to me either by fax and then email later on.
There were occasions where news I reprinted in my column were disowned by people.
But it gave an opportunity for columnists like me to to bare the truth and the facts.
That is why, Santa Banana, I warn some of my fellow columnists and media influencers to be very careful about repeating what is sent to them and what they read and pick up from the internet.
One time in my early days as a columnist, there was a report relayed to me by one of my assistants at the Philippines Herald, regarding the arrival of the President of the American Chamber of Commerce and his views on a raging issue in business.
Tuth was the report given by my assistant never happened because the source, upon his arrival, was never interviewed about his side of the issue concerning the Philippines and the US government.
The American Chamber of Commerce president threatened to sue the Philippines Herald for printing fake news.
I had no other recourse but to fire my assistant for his mistake of going against the basic rule in journalism -- to print only the truth. I took that incident as a lesson never to write about something that did not happen.
I myself have been very careful since then not to purvey fake news, but at this point I am very much worried that it is increasingly more difficult to tell which is the truth and which is not in the news.
I have been threatened and sued with libel suits. I think I was sued seven times, went to court four times and apologized three times for my own mistake and recklessness.
The people must be warned against
the prevalence of fake news, especially with the onset of AI (Artificial Intelligence), where even a person can be shown issuing a statement that is fake.
Reason why fake news, my gulay, is one of the hazards of media for the next generation.
Is what you read true or not? Since the media is supposed to purvey the truth, the media can be accused of relaying false news, not the truth.
Fake news, my gulay, is one of the hazards of media for the next generation
Recently I fell victim to misinformation when I received through my own sources last week an alleged statement purportedly from the Philippine Constitution Association (PhilConsa), criticizing the Supreme Court’s decision invalidating the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.
The document also claimed the PhilConsa believes the decision overreaches Constitutional boundaries, disrupts the separation of powers, and weakens Congress’ exclusive authority to hold impeachable officers accountable.
It was even published by some online news outlets.
Sad to say, Santa Banana, when I was about to submit my column with my views about it, I learned that the alleged PhilConsa statement was false when PhilConsa stated the document is unauthorized and is fake news.
The former Chief Justice (ret.) and Chairman of the PhilConsa Reynato Puno has warned against the spread of misinformation, describing the proliferation of fake news as “very devastating.”
My fellow media influencers and columnists should be warned of fake news like this, as in general, it will reflect on all columnists, not only myself , that what they are purveying is false news, not the truth.
Also it is the primary obligation of the media to print the news, not gossip or rumors. The news we purvey to the public reflects on the integrity of the media. That is our primary obligation as journalists and columnists.
Remulla’s quest for Ombudsman
I. Battle Cry: A Reformer Under Fire
THE Judicial and Bar Council faces a defining moment: will it crown Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla as Ombudsman, a fearless prosecutor who jailed a former president, or buckle under dynastic pressure?
Remulla’s bid tests whether the Philippines’ anti-corruption watchdog will roar or whimper. The complaints against him, led by Senator Imee Marcos, conveniently surfaced after his DOJ’s arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte in March 2025. These accusations aren’t proof of guilt—they’re badges of courage for challenging the powerful. The JBC must see through this political ambush and embrace Remulla’s independence as the Ombudsman’s lifeblood.
II. Legal Arsenal: Smashing the Opposition
The 1987 Constitution, Article XI, Section 8, sets clear criteria for the Ombudsman: a natural-born citizen, at least 40 years old, a Philippine Bar member with 10 years of practice, and proven integrity.
At 62, a lawyer since 1987, and with decades as congressman, Cavite governor, and DOJ Secretary, Remulla exceeds these standards.
The Supreme Court in De Castro v. JBC (2010) limits the JBC’s role to verifying these qualifications, not inventing new barriers.
Republic Act 6770 bars candidates only if convicted of moral turpitude
crimes, not merely accused. Dela Torre v. COMELEC (1996) reinforces this: pending complaints don’t disqualify without a final conviction.
Remulla faces no convictions—only allegations, protected by the Constitution’s presumption of innocence. His DOJ record, prosecuting Duterte despite past ties, proves his impartiality. If this isn’t “probity and independence,” what is?
The opposition’s arguments collapse under scrutiny.
First, Senator Marcos’ “moral turpitude” complaints are baseless. Dela Torre v. COMELEC (1996) defines moral turpitude as proven depravity— acts of baseness or vileness.
His DOJ record, prosecuting Duterte despite past ties, proves his impartiality
Allegations of abuse or delay under RA 3019 are unproven, mere political retaliation for Duterte’s arrest.
Second, claims of a “conflict of interest” from Remulla’s DOJ role are absurd.
His executive experience equips him to expose corruption, not enable it.
The Ombudsman’s mandate demands fearlessness, which Remulla embodies.
EDITORIAL
Fast lanes for leptospirosis
GRATEFUL, but, at the same time, unnerved, that health authorities have opened to date at least 19 specialized “fast lanes” for leptospirosis cases in the metropolis, where 13 million people live, which piteously reeled under floodwaters for weeks since June.
But the hat tip for the quick response by the Department of Health comes with a mix feeling of anxiety as we note leptospirosis cases have surged nationwide, with 2,396 infections recorded from June 8 to Aug. 7, according to the Dept. of Health.
The figures are a mighty leap from annual figures available in the past years: In 2020, there were 182 reported cases, followed by 1661 cases in 2021, and 2794 cases in 2022.
In the recent past, according to health authorities, more than 810 cases were reported from Jan. 1 to March 4, 2023. The Cagayan Valley Region had 103 cases, the Zamboanga Peninsula 77 cases, and the Western Visayas Region 176 cases.
We acknowledge the quick response of the Department of Health which opened specialized leptospirosis “fast lanes” in select government hospitals
Finally, the nepotism charge—citing his brother, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla—is a distraction. De Castro allows family ties to be considered only if they clearly compromise independence, which no evidence suggests here. These are desperate ploys, not legal arguments.
III. SWOT Blitz: Reframing the Fight
Strengths: Prosecuted a president— undeniable proof of fearless independence. Remulla’s DOJ record is a relentless assault on corruption, targeting figures from Duterte to drug lords with unwavering resolve.
Weaknesses: Pending cases? Mere battle scars earned from challenging a corrupt system. Only a true reformer attracts such fierce opposition.
Opportunities: Appointing Remulla signals the end of impunity, forging an Ombudsman who strikes fear into the corrupt and restores trust in governance.
Threats: Allowing Imee Marcos’ vendettas to derail Remulla grants dynasties a free pass to plunder, undermining the Ombudsman’s power.
nationwide to provide quicker risk assessments, evaluation and treatment for patients exposed to floodwaters and suspected of having the illness.
Health authorities are urging the public, especially those with open wounds, to avoid wading in floodwaters
Doctors assess if hospitalization is needed and they determine the appropriate use of doxycycline, an antibiotic used to prevent or treat leptospirosis. But what is leptospirosis? This is
Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales faced 42 complaints when appointed in 2011, yet became a beacon of integrity. Remulla’s complaints prove he’s a threat to the corrupt, not a liability.
IV. Voice of Authority
“Remulla’s enemies brand his pending cases a flaw; I call them proof he’s shaking the corrupt to their core. Only the guilty fear him.” — Kweba ng Katarungan, August 2025.
V. Battle Plan: Seizing Control
To the JBC: Shortlist Remulla or risk legitimizing complaints as vetoes, a gift to corrupt politicians. Re: JBC Shortlist for Ombudsman (2011) allows dismissing baseless claims—use it.
To Remulla: Demand a public hearing, forcing accusers to testify under oath. Submit a rebuttal with dockets and endorsements.
To the Media: Stop amplifying Imee Marcos’ complaints as fact. Demand JBC transparency on vetting criteria.
VI. Final Stand: A Legacy at Stake
The JBC’s choice is stark: elevate a reformer or bow to dynastic pressure.
The Ombudsman’s chair awaits a titan who prosecuted a president—or a
caused by an infection with the spirochete bacterium, most often spread through exposure to the urine of infected animals either from direct contact or from contact with soil or water contaminated by the urine.
Health authorities are urging the public, especially those with open wounds, to avoid wading in floodwaters – which are recurrent in this typhoon-lashed country during the rainy season of six months.
Atuhorities advise those with symptoms to go to to these “fast lanes” for immediate consultation with a doctor who can provide preventive medicine or measures.
People are also advised to avoid animals that could have leptospirosis. Wearing protective clothing and shoes if they work with or around animals or they must wear protective shoes and clothing if they have to be in contact with water or soil that might be contaminated with bacteria.
Authorities also advise the masses to keep rodents away by putting food, water, and trash in closed containers, and trapping rodents.
Better yet, avoid wading in floodwaters during the inundation.
puppet. This editorial is a rallying cry for the JBC to champion justice. Remulla’s bid is a chance to forge an Ombudsman who fears no one. Will the JBC rise to the challenge?
VII. The Cost of Capitulation
Excluding Remulla delivers a triumph to corruption, allowing Duterte’s allies to escape justice, granting dynasties unchecked power, enabling corrupt officials to flourish, and robbing Filipinos of a fearless champion for accountable governance.
VIIi. Red Lines: 4 Pillars the JBC Cannot Ignore
1. De Castro v. JBC (2010): JBC verifies constitutional qualifications, not subjective standards.
2. Dela Torre v. COMELEC (1996): Pending complaints require final conviction to disqualify. And, moral turpitude demands proven depravity.
3. Re: JBC Shortlist for Ombudsman (2011): JBC can dismiss frivolous complaints.
4. Gutierrez v. House of Representatives (2011): Integrity requires substantiated claims.
This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in horizontal format. At the lower left hand corner of the panel is a Juan dela Cruz figure looking at the situation brewing next to him. He is looking at a traditional Chinese dragon bracing for attack. The wind lion, labeled ‘Taiwan’ stands to the left of Juan dela Cruz both keenly looking at the larger Chinese dragon snarling at the lion. The dragon is red with the Chinese flag’s stars on its body. All three are situated on top of a roiling sea with disturbed waves. The cartoon is pen and ink high contrast with bolts of colored markers.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2025
Trump-Putin-Zelenskyy forum on ‘sked’
Accountability vowed by Syria over killing
DAMASCUS – Syria’s interior ministry on Monday said it would hold accountable those responsible for the apparent killing of an unarmed man at a hospital during violence last month in Druze-majority Sweida province, after a purported video of the incident emerged.
“We condemn and denounce this act in the strongest terms and affirm that the perpetrators will be held accountable and brought to justice... whatever their affiliation,” the ministry said in a statement. A week of bloodshed began on July 13 with clashes between local Druze fighters and Bedouin tribes, but the violence rapidly escalated as it drew in outside forces, eventually killing some 1,600 people, many of them Druze civilians, according to an updated toll by a war monitor. Syrian authorities have said their forces intervened to stop the clashes, but witnesses, Druze factions and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor have accused them of siding with the Bedouin and committing abuses against the Druze, including summary executions.
Local media outlet Suwayda 24 and the Observatory published the video on Sunday, saying it was from hospital surveillance footage.
Forces in military garb are seen shooting dead a man whom Suwayda 24 identified as an engineer volunteering with the hospital team after a brief scuffle, as a group of people dressed as healthcare workers are crouched on the floor. AFP
IN BRIEF
North Korea warns of ‘counteraction’
SEOUL – North Korea will react with “resolute counteraction” in the event of provocations from upcoming joint military drills between South Korea and the United States, its defense chief said in a state media dispatch on Monday.
The warning comes as Seoul and Washington are set to carry out their annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, aimed at containing the nuclear-armed North, from August 18 to 28. North Korea -- which attacked its neighbor in 1950, triggering the Korean War -- has always been infuriated by USSouth Korean military drills, decrying them as rehearsals for invasion.
“The armed forces of the DPRK will cope with the war drills of the US and (South Korea) with thoroughgoing and resolute counteraction posture... at the level of the right to self-defense,” North Korean defense chief No Kwang Chol said in a statement carried by the Korean Central News Agency. AFP
Myanmar ethnic group vows to block elections
YANGON – One of Myanmar’s most powerful ethnic groups pledged on Monday to block elections in areas it controls, rejecting polls the military junta has touted as a way of ending the nation’s civil war.
The Arakan Army has emerged as a key challenger to Myanmar’s ruling generals since a 2021 military coup sparked war and today controls nearly all of western Rakhine state.
In addition to the AA, the military is battling an array of other ethnic armies that have long resisted central rule and have been joined on the frontlines by new pro-democracy guerrilla units.
Late last month, the junta ended the nationwide state of emergency declared during the coup and said it would hold a general election in December. Opposition groups including democratic lawmakers ousted in the coup are boycotting the vote, while a UN expert has branded it a “fraud” designed to legitimise the junta’s continuing rule. AFP
Australia to recognize Palestinian state
CANBERRA – Australia will recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Monday.
“A two-state solution is humanity’s best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and to bring an end to the conflict, suffering and starvation in Gaza,” he told reporters in Canberra.
“Until Israeli and Palestinian statehood is permanent, peace can only be temporary.
“Australia will recognize the right of the Palestinian people to a state of their own. We will work with the international community to make this right a reality.”
The Israel-Hamas war, raging in Gaza since the Palestinian militant group’s attack on October 7, 2023, has revived a global push for Palestinians to be given a state of their own.
According to an AFP tally, at least 145 of the 193 UN members now recognize or plan to recognize a Palestinian state, including France, Canada and Britain. AFP
Israel PM: Gaza plan ‘best way to end the war’
of Gaza City and target the remaining Hamas strongholds, saying it was “the best way to end the war,” despite growing calls to stop the fighting. More than 22 months into the war, sparked by Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israel, the country is gripped by a yawning divide pitting those demanding an end to the conflict and a deal for the release of the hostages against others who want to see the Palestinian militants vanquished once and for all.
WASHINGTON, DC – The United States is working to “schedule” a meeting between Donald Trump and his Russian and Ukrainian counterparts, Vice President JD Vance said Sunday, as Ukraine’s European allies push for Kyiv’s presence at the US-Russia summit in Alaska this week.
“One of the most important logjams is that Vladimir Putin said that he would never sit down with (Volodymyr) Zelenskyy, the head of Ukraine, and the president has now got that to change,” Vance said during an interview on Fox News program “Sunday Morning Futures.”
“We’re at a point now where we’re trying to figure out, frankly, scheduling and things like that around when these three leaders could sit down and discuss an end to this conflict,” Vance said when asked about his expectations for the Alaska summit on August 15.
“But we have two remaining strongholds, OK? These are Gaza City and the central camps in Al Mawasi.”
During a press conference in Jerusalem, he said the new operation would be implemented on “a fairly short timetable”.
The operation will aim “to dismantle the two remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza City and the central camps”, while establishing secure corridors and safe zones to allow civilians to leave the area.
“Israel has no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas. Now, we’ve done a great deal. We have about 70 to 75 percent of Gaza under Israeli control, military control,” he said.
Criticism has only intensified after Netanyahu’s security cabinet announced plans to expand the conflict and capture Gaza City. Netanyahu was defiant on Sunday, telling journalists: “This is the best way to end the war, and the best way to end it speedily.”
A Hamas spokesperson later called the prime minister’s comments a “series of lies.”
In Gaza, an Israeli strike on Sunday killed five Al Jazeera journalists, including a prominent reporter, according to the Qatar-based broadcaster.
The attack was the latest to see journalists targeted in Gaza, with around 200 media workers killed over the course of the conflict, according to media watchdogs.
Over the weekend, thousands of people took to the streets in Tel Aviv to protest the security cabinet’s decision. AFP
Firefighters check blaze in France but Spain fire force evacuations
RIBAUTE, France – Firefighters have contained a massive wildfire in southern France but still face a “complicated” struggle, but officials warned on Sunday that scorching heat and dry winds could reignite the blaze.
The fire, which has ravaged a vast area of France’s southern Aude department, killing one person and injuring several others, comes as parts of the Mediterranean region face a heatwave.
“The fire is now under control. This still requires continued mobilisation. We must hold on and not weaken,” Amelie Trioux, chief of staff of the Aude prefect, told a press briefing. Authorities said that hot, dry winds on Sunday -- similar to those on the day the blaze began -- and a heatwave would make the work of firefighters more difficult.
Some 1,300 firefighters were drafted in to stop the blaze from flaring up amid fears
years -- tore through 16,000 hectares of vegetation, disaster officials said.
In Spain, More than 1,000 people were evacuated on Sunday in north-west Spain as wildfires spread, fueled by scorching temperatures and strong winds, authorities said.
Around 400 people were displaced in and around the town of Carucedo, and another 700 from several towns near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Las Medulas, a former Roman gold-mining area known for its striking red landscape, local officials said. The head of the regional government of Castile and Leon, Alfonso Manueco, said experts suspect several of the blazes were set by arsonists.
“We
The vice president said the United States was going to “try to find some negotiated settlement that the Ukrainians and Russians can live with.” Vance added: “It’s not going to make anybody super happy, both the Russians and the Ukrainians probably at the end of the day are going to be unhappy with it.”
The planned US-Russia summit in Alaska without Zelenskyy had raised concerns that a deal would require Kyiv to cede swaths of territory, which the European Union has rejected.
US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker suggested on CNN that Zelenskyy could attend the summit. He was asked whether Zelenskyy might join Trump and Putin on Friday. “Yes, I certainly think it’s possible,” he said. “Certainly, there can’t be a deal that everybody that’s involved in it doesn’t agree to. And, I mean, obviously, it’s a high priority to get this war to end.” AFP
Europe pushing for Ukraine role in Alaska meet
“The
assumed that Zelensky would attend the leaders’ summit. AFP
SPORTS
By Peter Atencio
AYOUNG set players were brought in when the defending champion Philippine national women’s football team played against Australia on Sunday in the ASEAN Women’s MSIG Serenity Cup 2025 in Vietnam.
National coach Mark Torcaso wanted to test the toughness of the Filipinas and the Australian side provided the challenges he was looking for.
“I’m extremely proud of our players. We’ve brought in a very, very young group, we’ve got two 16-year-olds that have played for our country today, that came on against an under-23 age group team,” said Torcaso.
The Filipinas fell, when Alana Jancevski chipped in the winning goal before the first half ended, handing Australia a 1-0 win over the Philippines at the Việt Trì Stadium in Phu Tho, Vietnam.
This put the Australians and the Filipinas on even terms at second spot in the Group B standings with their 1-0-1 win-draw-loss records.
Earlier, team skipper Win Theingi Tun scored a hat-trick as Myanmar claimed a 3-0 win over Timor-Leste, to move up in the solo lead with a 2-0 record.
“We’re extremely proud of the way they fought right to the end and I thought we should have actually pinched a draw. We can take this as a positive step in the game against Myanmar,” added Torcaso.
Before the team went to Vietnam, Torcaso made assurances that the Filipinas will be able to beat the Australians in their first encounter, given how strong the Aussies are.
Among the young players, who debuted were 16-year-old Fil American booters Tea Pidding and Nina Mathelus. Pidding is from Del
UM Aguilas want to be competitive
THE University of Makati Aguilas will be a competitive team in the coming Philippines Football League season.
Team owner Mike Atayde said this after the club squad announced a new coach and roster for the PFL’s coming tournament.
After placing sixth last season as the Davao FC Aguilas, the team changed its name as a school-based organization.
“Coming from sixth place, you have to rebuild. Rebuilding means, you have players who fit the position,” said Atayde, following a launch on Friday at the Buffalo Wings in Estancia, Pasig City. New head coach Jörg Steinebrunner will call the shots, taking
PH falls to Australia, but coach proud of Filipinas
Monte High School in San Diego, California, while Mathelus comes from Thayer Academy in Braintree, Massachusetts.
The Australians were in possession most the time, but the Filipinas’ goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel stopped four of five big attacks with her saves and
blocks during the encounter.
Leticia McKenna made an attempt in the 42nd minute twice, with the first going wide, while the second one had McDaniel blocking it with ease.
A minute into injury time, Jancevski picked the ball up on the right side and
bent low for left-foot shot into the opposite corner of the goal. This was after Filipinas’ booter and newcomer Azumi Oka, a rising sophomore on the UNC Greensboro (UNCG) women’s soccer team, made a move to retreat to block to the shot.
The University of Makati Aguilas over from Aber Ruzgal, who left for the United States.
Steinebrunner has previously coached clubs in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia.
He captured the 2007 Singapore League Cup and a silver medal in the 2008 Singapore, with Woodlands Wellington.
His last job was with Life FC in the Cambodian Premier League last year, when they finished ninth with a 2-4-14 record.
“We want to be competitive
every game, have attitude and character, be dominant in our games, and have an identity,” said Steinebrunner.
“Coach Jorg has been with us for at least four weeks. I have seen the difference here compared to our previous coaching staff and what I like about it is that he establishes discipline,” Atayde said in a press conference Friday.
Miggy Clarino, Kurt Talaroc and Jhomary Sapal are the only ones left from last year’s Aguilas
PH Red Cross celebrate World Drowning Prevention Day with SAFE Swim Program
MILO SAFE Swim participant practices water safety techniques and Philippine Red Cross conducting CPR training for MILO® SAFE Swim participants
TO mark World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25, MILO® and the Philippine Red Cross held the biggest event yet of the MILO® Safe Swim program last July 27 at Lourdes School of Mandaluyong, equipping participants with essential water safety and first aid skills to combat rising child drowning cases in the Philippines. Why MILO SAFE Swim Matters
According to the World Health Organization (2019), drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury deaths in the Philip-
pines, accounting for 31% of such deaths among children under 14 years old. Introduced in 2024 as a nationwide initiative, MILO® SAFE Swim has already made stops in Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Ilocos Sur, Cavite, Cebu, Bacolod, Pampanga, and Pasig, reaching communities across the country to promote water safety awareness and equip families with life-saving knowledge in response to this alarming statistic.
“Let’s make a commitment today—to protect each other, to raise
awareness, and to give every child the chance to enjoy water safely,” said Dr. Gwendolyn Pang, General Manager of the Philippine Red Cross.
“Let’s make sure our kids know how to swim, how to stay safe, and how to help others because no one should lose their life to something we can prevent. Remember SAFE water is fun water.”
“Drowning continues to be one of the leading causes of death among children in the Philippines.
That’s why we knew we had to act and that’s how MILO® SAFE
Pressure mounts as JPGT bidders eye Finals’ slots
LUBAO, Pampanga—The Pradera Verde Golf and Country Club sets the stage today (Tuesday, Aug. 12)) for a high-stakes showdown as the penultimate leg of the ICTSI Junior PGT Luzon Swing tees off – a make-or-break moment for mid-teen and young contenders fighting to secure a spot in the North vs South Elite Junior Finals. With only two legs remaining in the Luzon series, this sixth leg looms large for players still vying for a coveted berth in the Oct. 7-10 championship finale where they will be pitted against their counterparts from the VisayasMindanao series. While several players have already cemented their places after standout performances in the first five legs, the battle for the last two spots in each division is still fiercely c ontested, heightening the tension in today’s round. Among those who have all but clinched their finals berths are Mavis Espedido and Winter Serapio (girls’ 7-10), Zach Guico and Zoji Edoc (boys’ 7-10), twins Mona and Lisa Sarines (girls’ 11-14), Ryuji Suzuki and Vito Sarines (boys’ 11-14), Rafa Anciano and Levonne Talion (gir;s’ 15-18), and Patrick Tambalque and Shinichi Suzuki (boys’ 15-18).
With these frontrunners likely locked in, positions three to six in each division are now in a pressure-packed scramble, as only the top four in each category will advance. For these hopefuls, Pradera Verde is nothing short of a final audition before the last Luzon leg at Camp John Hay next week.
Third-ranked Tyra Garingalao, No. 4 Penelope Sy, and fifth-seeded Venus delos Santos are all set for a heated battle in the girls’ 7-10 division as they aim to secure a coveted Top 4 finish in the series organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. Despite already locking in a spot in the finals, dominant campaigner Espedido remains in the hunt for a fourth victory in the 36-hole tournament, having swept the first three legs. Rounding out the field are Amiya Tablac and Clare Dungca, who are also eager to make their mark in the two-day event.
team, after they finished at sixth place with a 7-4-7 win-draw-loss record.
The team roster also includes Enrico Mangaoang, Emilio Bongolan, Bryan Palpalatoc, Richard Talaroc, Guillermo Amarilla, Charles Pickering, Jhomaray Sapal, Ibrahim Adamu, Muhamad Al-Mashuri, Arnel Amita, Diego Aspiras, Rey Bukit, Issa Diallo, Boubaccar Diallo, Tomoki Fujihira, Ikume Hiruta, Imade Kaicen, David Koum and Kira Yamamoto. Peter Atencio
Swim came to life,” shared Carlo Sampan, Assistant Vice President for MILO® and head of MILO® Sports. “At MILO®, we’ve always believed that sports build champions not just in the field, but in life. Today, we’re proud to expand that mission into the water with a program that saves lives, builds courage, and strengthens families.”
“Swimming is more than just a sport. Hindi porket competitive swimmer ako, I can save myself and save others in times of emergencies. Hindi ‘yon automatic, natututunan po ‘yan,” former Olympian swimmer and now swimming coach Jenny Guerrero also showed her support, spotlighting the growing momentum behind the campaign.
From Safety to Confidence: Teaching Kids to Swim the SAFE Way More than just swim lessons, MILO® SAFE Swim emphasizes that swimming is an essential life skill, especially in a country prone to typhoons and flooding. Through its practical and accessible sessions, the program empowers families to stay safe and respond effectively to water-related emergencies, whether in pools, natural bodies of water like rivers and lakes, or during calamities.
IT’S the kind of matchup volley fans usually dream about seeing in the finals – only this time, the fireworks will light up the Araneta Coliseum a stage earlier.
When PLDT and Creamline collide in the PVL On Tour semifinals today (Tuesday), it won’t just be about extending their unbeaten runs or reaching the next round. It’s a clash of giants. A test of pedigree, poise and purpose – and potentially a preview of what could become the new league rivalry.
The High Speed Hitters and the Cool Smashers square off at 6:30 p.m. in a duel expected to match championship-level intensity, energy and execution. With both teams sweeping their respective quarterfinal assignments, neither side holds the edge in momentum. The stage is perfectly set for a titanic battle – where adjustments, depth and endgame mastery may tip the scales.
Creamline’s championship line is unquestioned. Led by the ever-creative Kyle Negrito, who is coming off a five-ace, Player of the Game performance against Farm Fresh, the Cool Smashers have the experience, balance and composure that has made them the league’s gold standard for years.
“We know it won’t be easy,” said Negrito. “PLDT’s confidence is really high now, and we need to be ready for that.”
Indeed, PLDT has looked every inch a title threat, going 6-0 with just a single set dropped en route to the Last 4 phase. Coach Rald Ricafort’s squad has gelled into a disciplined, dangerous unit, hitting its peak at the perfect time.
Newbie Nina Mathelus (right) defends against Australian booter Alana Cerne.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO,
Napolis eyes 2nd World Games medal
CHENGDU, China—Ju-jitsu standout Kaila Napolis tries to move heaven and earth to win her second World Games medal in an open division that is expected to test every ounce of her strength on Tuesday at the Jianyang Cultural and Sports Centre Gymnasium here.
The Muntinlupa City pride, who fell just short of the country’s first gold in the women’s -52-kilogram ne-waza event Sunday night, competes in the open category which will be a scramble of all athletes from Napolis’ weight up to the 63kg division.
There, if her plans align, the Filipino grappler could seek payback and meet her finals tormentor, South Korea’s Eon Ju Im, for a chance at bagging her second medal and further give the Philippine delegation, supported by Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham Bambol” Tolentino, a measure of pride halfway through the competition.
“I believe in miracles,” Napolis said while being wary of the challenging work at hand.
“I don’t know what will happen ahead since I will be battling other fighters in heavier divisions, but we’ll see what I can do for the country. I’m always ready,” she added.
Eighteen athletes from three weight classes — 52, 57, and 63kgs — will be competing from Round of 16 up to medal rounds set in the afternoon.
“Those in the 63kgs are surely tough to beat,” said Annie Ramirez, who gets her shot at redemption after an early exit in the 57kg division.
On a rather light day in competition venues for athletes and team officials, the Filipinos, who are backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, used the spare time to recover from the toll of Chengdu action, some visiting recreational places inside the Athletes’ Village, others doing the laundry, while some had fun watching the musical performance from Chinese acts Sunday night.
Special PSA Forum session to tackle World Surf League
PH bags 2 silvers, 2 bronzes in Asian Youth boxing meet
THE Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum goes to Rockwell Makati on Tuesday (Aug. 12) for a special session featuring the World Surf League Qualifying Series PH. The event will be graced by no less than Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick Gregorio along with sports ambassador Vincent Marcos. Also gracing the 11 a.m. public sports program are no. 3 World Longboard champion Jay-R Esquivel, technical director John Carby, and Siargao Surf Association’s Nildie Blancada.
The weekly Forum is presented by San Miguel Corporation, PSC, Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, Smart/PLDT, and ArenaPlus, the country’s 24/7 sports app. The session is regularly livestreamed via the PSA Facebook page fb.com/PhilippineSportswritersAssociation Radyo Pilipinas 2 also airs the Forum on a delayed basis and shares it on its official Facebook page Radyo Pilipinas 2 sports.
By Randy M. Caluag
THE Philippines wrapped up its campaign at the Asian Boxing U22 & U19 Championships in Bangkok, Thailand, with a total of two silver and two bronze medals.
Clark Vicera capped the country’s bid with a silver medal in the men’s 50kg division, falling short in the final after a unanimous decision loss to Thailand’s Kiattisak Sukwee. Vicera advanced to the gold-medal bout by defeating Kyrgyzstan’s Iasur Taalaibek Uulu in the semifinals.
In the women’s 51kg division, Xian Baguhin battled her way to the championship round.
She outclassed India’s Yakshika via unanimous decision in the quarterfinals and edged Japan’s Moena Kashiwada in a split decision in the semifinals. However, Baguhin settled for silver after bowing to China’s Shu Liu on points in the final.
Mark Ashley Fajardo and Ronel Suyom added a bronze medal each to the tally, though both were forced to withdraw from their respective semifinal bouts due to injuries.
Fajardo, competing in the men’s welterweight (65kg) division, suffered a left-hand injury during his preliminary match, ruling him out of the semifinals. Suyom, in the men’s bantamweight (55kg) U22 division, sustained a cut above his left eyebrow during his quarterfinal win over China’s Shaoqing Li, forcing him to forfeit his semifinal clash with Mongolia’s Durguunsaikhan Kharkhuu.
Preparations for FIVB MWCH shift to higher gear
TIME down to exactly 32 days and all cylinders are firing for the country’s solo hosting of the 32-nation FIVB 2025 Men’s World Championship—from the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) to all stakeholders primarily from the government led by Malacañang and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).
“Everything is on track when it comes to preparedness,” said PNVF president Ramon
“Tats” Suzara in his address to the Final Technical Working Group Inter-Agency Meeting on Monday morning at the Century Park Hotel.
“I am so thankful to all government and private sectors for their valuable contributions and time to make our hosting of the game safe, convenient and exciting,” added Suzara, also president of the Asian Volleyball Confederation and executive vice president of the FIVB.
William Vincent “Vinny” Araneta Marcos—co-chair of the LOC with Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco—graced the wellattended meeting held exactly a month before the September 12 to 28 world championship
at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
“It’s going to be busier weeks ahead of us with all agencies working hand in hand,” Suzara said. “We’re thankful to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza and son Vinny, who is part of the LOC, and the FIVB for helping us.”
PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio, who chairs the government task force for the world championship, expressed his confidence over the hosting chores to the close to a hundred officials and representatives from the government, private and sports sectors who attended the meeting.
“I’m so confident that [PNVF] president Tats Suzara will absolutely make this work. He knows how to do it,” Gregorio said. “We make sure that everybody is in coordination and, yes, they are.”
The LOC has as members Senator Pia Cayetano, Manuel V. Pangilinan and POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.
The attendees were from the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), Philippine National Police, Bureau of Immigration, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., Philip-
Castro conquers IIT Pradera in thriller; Tan survives meltdown SPORTS
LUBAO, Pampanga—Zach Castro finally laid claim to a longelusive crown, delivering a blistering finish to capture the ICTSI Pradera Verde Intercollegiate Tour leg in dramatic fashion here on Monday. The La Salle-1 standout birdied his final two holes, including a pressure-packed finish on the par-4 eighth and the closing ninth
of the Pinatubo layout, leading to a fiveunder 67 to upend early clubhouse leader Sean Granada by two strokes.
After two close calls – a runner-up finish in Round 1 at Royal Northwoods and a joint fifth-place effort at Splendido Taal – Castro wasn’t going to be denied a third time in the four-round Tour co-developed by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. and the Philippine Golf Foundation. Locked in a thrilling duel with Granada, the College of St. Benilde-I ace who carded a 69 in an earlier flight, Castro summoned nerves of steel down the stretch.
The decisive moment came on the par-5 sixth, where Castro’s clinical approach set up a birdie to tie Granada at three-under. Then came the fireworks – a birdie on the eighth and a composed finish on the ninth – as he stormed past Granada to finally capture the individual crown in style.
“It’s all about attitude,” said Castro, reflecting on his performance. “I stayed composed even when the putts weren’t falling. I just kept it simple – hit the fairways, hit the greens. I know the putts will drop eventually.” Castro also acknowledged the challenging conditions, saying: “The course is in great shape, but it’s just so hot out there. Hydration was key.”
Unlike many of his fellow competitors,
Castro made it a point to track live scoring updates throughout the round.
“Sean’s a good friend, and I know what he’s capable of,” he said. “He was 2-under going into his last hole. When I refreshed the scores and saw he finished at 3-under, I was on my approach shot on 17. That’s when I knew – I had to birdie the last two holes (to win).”
And he did just that. If the men’s finish was a showcase of clutch execution, the women’s side proved to be a test of survival – and Shane Tan barely held on.
The Ateneo-2 mainstay seemed poised for a runaway victory after dominating the field for most of the day. Standing on the 16th tee with a four-shot cushion over UP-I’s Addie Manhit, Tan looked well on her way to her first Tour title with a par. Then the collapse came.
Tan unraveled with back-to-back triple bogeys on the final two holes, ending up with a 90 that opened the door for Manhit to stage a dramatic comeback.
Manhit, the Caliraya Springs leg champion, capitalized with a birdie on 16 to close the gap. But just when a playoff looked inevitable, she too faltered under pressure –bogeying 17 and making a triple-bogey 7 on the last to finish with a 91, missing a golden opportunity to steal the win.
Clark Vicera caps the Philippines’ bid with a silver medal in the men’s 50kg division.
Local Organizing Committee co-chairman William Vincent ‘Vinny’ Araneta Marcos (center) with PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio (left) and PNVF president Ramon ‘Tats’ Suzara
ICTSI Pradera Intercollegiate Championship winners Zachary Castro and SheIn Keira Tan Manny Marcelo pine Charity Sweepstakes Office, Metro Manila Development Authority and the Departments of Education, Tourism, Budget and Management, among othjers.
Kaila Napolis
BSP: Another rate cut ‘quite likely’ in August
By Thony Rose Lesaca
BANGKO Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli Remolona Jr. said Monday another interest rate cut is “quite likely” to happen this August, despite a reported increase in core inflation for July.
Expected interest rate cut in August
Remolona previously told reporters that another key interest rate cut was “on the table” as early as Aug. 28. The governor maintained that two more rate cuts are still possible in the remaining months of the year, depending on economic data.
“I think two is more likely than one,” Remolona said, adding that “three is unlikely.”
Core inflation in July
bps 2.3% 0.9%
The Philippines’ core inflation rate edged up to 2.3 percent in July 2025, from 2.2 percent in June, according to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority. Remolona said this part of inflation, which is affected by monetary policy, tends to be driven by demand factors.
“The core inflation still looks good,” said Remolona on the sidelines of the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines’ 2025 Economic Forum.
By Othel V. Campos
“It’s still on an upward trend, but it’s not going to hit 3 percent until around 2027. Three is the midpoint of our target,” he said.
Headline inflation in July
Headline inflation, however, eased to 0.9 percent in July 2025, the lowest in nearly six years.
TWO major Indian investors are set to create a combined 2,000 new jobs in the Philippines through expansion projects in the business process management (BPM) and healthcare sectors, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said. Hinduja Group, one of India’s largest conglomerates, committed to generating at least 1,000 new full-time jobs in the BPM industry by 2027. The jobs are part of a $5-million expansion of its local arm, Hinduja Global Solutions (HGS). The company employs over 3,800 Filipinos and has
invested more than $50 million since entering the Philippine market in 2003. HGS is opening new offices in Bonifacio Global City and Iloilo and launched the country’s first AI Hub in Quezon City to train Filipino workers in automation, analytics and artificial intelligence.
The move was formalized during an Aug. 7 meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in New Delhi. Meanwhile, NephroPlus, Asia’s largest dialysis network, announced plans to expand from 39 to 150 clinics nationwide by 2028, creating about 1,000 new jobs and widening access to renal care in underserved provinces.
The $50-million investment plan includes local manufacturing of dialysis supplies and the establishment of a training academy for Filipino hemodialysis nurses.
This follows an initial investment of $30 million in 2020. NephroPlus has been in the Philippines since 2020, employing over 600 Filipinos and serving nearly 2,500 patients monthly.
It works with local governments in Cavite, Aklan and Cebu to expand access through public-private partnerships. A new clinic in Noveleta, Cavite is pending Board of Investments (BOI) approval.
The great divide: Ultra-luxury condos vs. low-income housing
TWO events in recent weeks have thrown into bold relief the deep divide between the estimated 10 percent of the Philippines population that owns the bulk of this country’s gross domestic product (GDP)—the A and B income classes – and the 90 percent that owns the rest of the GDP (the C, D and E income classes).
One of the events was the delivery by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of his 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA). The other event was the announcement by three of the nation’s biggest real estate developers – SM Development Corporation, Arthaland Corporation and Alveo Land Development Corporation – of the launching of their ultra-luxury condominium projects.
One of the promises made by Mr. Marcos in the course of the 2022 Presidential campaign was that his administration would close the estimated 6,000,000unit housing gap by holding one million housing units every year until the end of his term. This promise was not fulfilled during the three years, and in this year’s SONA he had absolutely nothing to say about mass housing. Yet housing is one of the five basic requirements of a Filipino’s existence.
On the other side of the socio-economic divide, the three aforementioned real estate development corporation announced the launching of projects that would produce ultra-luxury condominium units for the super-rich. The real estate section of one newspaper has reported that the price of the ultraluxury condos could go as high P50 million per unit.
There can be no more eloquent illustration of the deep socio-economic divide in this country than the P150,000-P200,000 price tag of a low-income housing unit and the reported P50 million price of an ultra-luxury condo. A quick computation shows that the P50 million paid for an ultra-luxury condominium unit in SMDC’s The Estate or Arthaland’s Eluria or Alveo Land’s Parkford Suites can finance the construction of around 50 low-income housing units. What to do about this socio-economic disparity?
In a democratic society such as Philippine society, the only possible approach is governmental policy change, especially change in tax policy. The developer of ultra-luxury condominium projects cannot legally be stopped from undertaking such projects. If the demand for P50 million ultraluxury condominium units is there—and the condominium units by the above-mentioned real estate developers have apparently been sold out —they will be constructed. And such, apparently, is the estate of the market that more ultra-luxury
There can be no more eloquent illustration of the deep socio-economic divide in this country than the P150,000 to P200,000 price tag of a lowincome housing unit and the reported P50 million price of an ultra-luxury condo.
condominium projects are on the way.
While they are well within their legal rights in providing ultra-luxury shelter for the super-rich – and making enormous profits in the process – SMDC, Arthaland, Alveo Land and Alveo Land and similarly minded real estate developers, being competent and experienced in their field of business, should make a contribution to the solution of this country’s lowincome housing problem, which becomes more acute every year with population growth. The best way to do this would be to establish subsidiaries that will concentrate on low-income housing projects. Alongside profit-making, there should be concern for the housing needs of those at the bottom of the national income ladders.
As for the government, the bad news has been indicated above. The public sector has been unable to deliver on candidate Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s campaign promise of one million mass-housing units per year. There is worse news. There is absolutely no indication that the government will be able to fulfill Mr. Marcos’s promise in the remaining years of his presidency.
The purpose behind placing all the housingrelated government agencies in a single-institution —Department of Housing and Urban Development (DHUD)—was to give a massive push to the elimination of this country’s longstanding mass housing backlog. As things stand, there is no prospect of that happening anytime soon. In his most recent SONA President Marcos should have sent a strong message to the DHUD leadership about the government’s strong interest in morning quickly toward the elimination of this country’s worrisome housing backlog. But the Chief Executive failed to deliver that message.
And so the great socio-economic divide in the shelter sector is likely to remain - ultra-luxury condominium units for the super rich and inadequate housing for the millions of low-income Filipino. Hardly a formula for social and political stability. (llagasjessa@yahoo.com)
Singapore’s ABC Impact buys 16% stake in AC Health
By Jenniffer B. Austria
SINGAPORE’S Temasek-backed entity, ABC Impact is acquiring a 16-percent economic stake in Ayala-owned healthcare unit AC Healthcare Holdings Inc., marking its foray in the Philippine healthcare sector.
The investment, made through ABC Impact’s special purpose vehicle, IMP2 Rise Pte. Ltd., involves a primary capital infusion to support AC Health’s national expansion.
ABC Impact, backed by Temasek Trust and Temasek, signed the investment agreement with AC Health on Aug. 8, 2025, following board approvals from both Ayala Corp. and AC Health.
Completion of the transaction is subject to standard closing conditions.
AC Health, which aims to build an integrated healthcare ecosystem, plans to use the new funds to grow its network of hospitals, clinics and pharmacies. The company’s goal is to expand to at least 10 hospitals, 300 clinics and 1,150 pharmacies by 2027.
“This partnership marks a significant milestone in AC Health’s journey,” said Paolo Borromeo, AC Health president and chief executive.
“ABC Impact’s investment reinforces the strength of our integrated model and our commitment to making healthcare more inclusive,” said Borromeo.
The partnership will allow AC Health to leverage ABC Impact’s regional expertise and network. The Singaporean firm has existing healthcare investments in India, China and Vietnam.
“Healthcare is a fundamental human need, and this partnership with Ayala and AC Health reflects our mission to improve lives by advancing access to quality care,” said David Heng, chief executive of ABC Impact.
The investment also strengthens the long-standing relationship between the Ayala Group and the Temasek ecosystem.
BofA Securities was the exclusive financial advisor to AC Health for the transaction. The investment is subject to the satisfaction of closing conditions.
PSEi sinks below 6,300 on economic woes
By Jenniffer B. Austria
SHARE prices opened the trading week in the red, dragging the index below the 6,300 level. Concerns about domestic economic growth amid global market uncertainties weighed on the index.
The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index ended at 6,254.36, down 85.02 points, or 1.34 percent.
The wider all shares index closed at 3,735.25, a drop of 32.16 points, or 0.85 percent.
The peso recovered slightly to 57.04 to the U.S. dollar on Monday, up from 57.11 on Aug. 8.
“The local market opened the week on a negative tone as lack of fresh positive
leads allowed worries over the local economy’s outlook to take over sentiment,” said Japhet Tantiangco, research head at Philstocks Financial Inc.
“Investors are concerned on how the local economy could accelerate its growth amid lingering economic uncertainties caused primarily by U.S. protectionist policies,” he added.
Analysts said investors turned cautious because of disappointing second-quarter gross domestic product numbers and mixed earnings reports from listed companies. Among the indices, only the services sector finished in the green, rising 0.20 percent. Financials declined 2.31 percent, while property dropped 1.97 percent.
INNOVATORS SUMMIT. (From left) JCI Philippines NSDD Reynard Francisco, JCI Philippines national president Felix Vinson Chua, Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc. president & chief executive Cosette Canilao, Philippine Chamber of Commerce & Industry Iloilo president Fulbert Woo, and PCCI Iloilo corporate secretary and 2025 Innovators Summit Program chairman Francis Gerona join the 2025 Innovators Summit held at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel in Iloilo City. The event was co-presented by PCCI Iloilo and JCI Philippines as part of a multi-sector effort to accelerate sustainable solutions for national development.
SAN JUAN RESERVOIR. An aerial view of the ongoing demolition of the old San Juan Reservoir and the construction of a new 56-million-liter earthquake-resilient facility along N. Domingo Street in Quezon City.
BUSINESS
Kalayaan 2 project transports wind turbines to Batangas port
The Board of Investments (BOI) approves the registration of the CyberKnife Radiotherapy Service of Asian Hospital Inc. (AHI). Shown are (from left) Merryl Kristie Francia, AHI consultant (SGV); Xen Ralf Guimapang, assistant manager, ACI quality assurance, training and development; Richard John Sabater, clinical supervisor at Conquer C Center, AHI; Remedios Lim, BOI acting division chief, services division, infrastructure and services division Service (ISIS); Lorna Yumul, BOI acting division chief, project evaluation and registration division (PERD), ISIS; Martin Gregorio Guevarra, medical physicist, AHI; Angelica Agcaoili, BOI investments specialist; Ma. Edsel Altar, associate director of Asian Cancer Institute and Nuclear Medicine Service, AHI; Ma. Monica Gin Paronable, admin supervisor Conquer C Center, AHI; and Donna Frances YladeTorres, AHI consultant.
Asian Hospital brings to PH first robotic CyberKnife cancer facility
THE Board of Investments (BOI) has approved a P334-million project to install the country’s first CyberKnife robotic radiosurgery system, a recent breakthrough in precision cancer treatment.
BOI chair and Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the project supports the government’s directive to boost healthcare infrastructure and attract high-impact investments.
“We are proud to back forwardlooking projects like CyberKnife that
harness state-of-the-art technology to address urgent public health needs. This innovation reflects our vision of a Bagong Pilipinas, where healthcare is advanced, inclusive, and accessible to all,” she said.
The P334-million project, led by Asian Hospital Inc. (AHI), introduces the CyberKnife Radiotherapy Service. The system, which has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, is a robotic radiosurgery platform that uses real-time
targeting and AI motion tracking to deliver highly precise radiation. This can reduce the number of treatment sessions from a typical 28 to 39 to just one to five.
Roque said the project aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s goal of enhancing the country’s healthcare infrastructure.
“We are proud to support forwardlooking investments like CyberKnife that harness state-of-the-art technology to address the country’s pressing
By Roy Tomandao
LAGUNA Governor Sol Aragones met with San Miguel Corp. (SMC) chairman and chief executive Ramon Ang to discuss longterm solutions to flooding in the province.
The plan is to implement sustainable measures without financial cost to the provincial government.
Aragones thanked Ang for SMC’s commitment to helping the province address a problem that has affected residents for decades. She called the partnership a significant step toward a lasting resolution.
“This collaboration reflects genuine public service,” Aragones said.
“We are grateful to Sir Ramon Ang for his compassion for our people. We will work hand in hand to slowly but surely solve the flood problem,” she said.
The initiative will also have the support of Rep. Arman Dimaguila, whose advocacy includes flood control and disaster preparedness. Other local officials are expected to join the effort, which will include both immediate and long-term measures. Ang said SMC is prepared to share its technical expertise, manpower and resources for the project. He cited the importance of engineering solutions to address current flooding and reduce the risk of future disasters.
The joint effort is expected to involve river dredging, clearing of waterways, and the installation of flood control infrastructure in strategic locations. All work will comply with environmental standards.
Aragones said the partnership is a prime example of how the private sector and government can unite for the common good. “When we work together, we can make significant changes without straining public funds,” she said.
The provincial government, SMC and other officials are determined to push forward with the initiative, aiming for progress that residents can see and feel in the coming years.
San Miguel Corp. chairman Ramon Ang meets with Laguna Governor Sol Aragones to discuss how to address the province’s flood problem without cost to the government.
Roy Tomandao
public health needs,” Roque said.
“This innovation aligns with our commitment to uplift the quality of life for Filipinos and build a Bagong Pilipinas—where healthcare is inclusive, advanced, and accessible to all,” she said.
The CyberKnife system is a noninvasive treatment platform that can treat cancerous and non-cancerous tumors in sensitive areas such as the brain, spine, lungs, liver and prostate. While located in a private facility, AHI said it would ensure accessibility to a wider range of patients by partnering with the Philippine Children’s Medical Center to serve pediatric cancer patients through the PhilHealth No Balance Billing (NBB) program.
Additional support will be provided through health maintenance organizations, the Department of Health’s Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients (MAIP) program, and Department of Social Welfare and Development medical aid.
Othel V. Campos
By Othel V. Campos
THE Board of Investments’ (BOI) One-Stop Action Center for Strategic Investments (OSACSI) said the Kalayaan 2 Wind Power Project is proceeding as planned following the successful transport and delivery of wind turbines at Batangas Port, a crucial step toward the project’s completion.
Once operational, Kalayaan 2 is expected to supply 100.8 megawatts (MW) of clean energy to the grid, helping cut carbon emissions and advance the country’s renewable energy targets and long-term energy security.
Under the Green Lane system, Kalayaan 2 continues to harness government assistance from OSACSI’s active coordination with local governments and national agencies to fast-track clearances and address logistical challenges.
Giant wind turbines have arrived at the Batangas port for the project, the BOI said Monday, marking a key step toward the project’s completion.
The agency said it worked with the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and local government units in Laguna and Batangas to prepare and secure delivery routes for the equipment.
“This timely delivery underscores our commitment to providing clean energy solutions efficiently,” said Miguel Cruz Moniz, chief construction officer for The Blue Circle and project director of Laguna Wind Energy Corp.
“We remain on schedule to complete the Kalayaan 2 Wind Power Project, contributing significantly to the nation’s renewable energy goals,” said Moniz.
The BOI said with the turbines now on-site, installation and commissioning activities are set to begin immediately.
(“UNH”, the “Corporation” or “Company”) will be held on 25 September 2025 at 2:30 p.m. to be conducted virtually via remote communication, with the following Agenda:
Election of Directors for 2025-2026
Officers since the AnnualStockholders’ Meeting
7. Appointment of External Auditor for 2025
8. Other Matters 9. Adjournment
UNH’s Board of Directors has fixed 04 August 2025 as the record date for the determination of Stockholders entitled to notice of, to participate, and to vote in absentia at the ASM and any adjournment thereof.
If you are unable to attend the meeting, please accomplish the proxy form that can be found in the Corporation’s Information Statement which will be posted in its Website at https://cip.chemphil.com.ph/ and on the PSE Edge. Kindly submit the same to the Corporate Secretary through email at unhcorpsec@gmail.com, no later than 6:00 p.m. on 12 September 2025, for validation purposes. The validation of proxies shall be conducted on 18 September 2025 at the principal office of the Corporation.
Stockholders may attend and participate in the ASM through videoconferencing. If you wish to attend through videoconferencing, kindly inform the Corporate Secretary at unhcorpsec@gmail.com by 12 September 2025.
Copies of the Corporation’s Information Statement, Management Report, SEC Form 17A (Annual Report) and other pertinent documents necessary under the circumstances shall be available and posted on the Corporation’s Website and PSE Edge.
In compliance with the SEC Advisory dated May 6, 2015, a copy of the Interim Unaudited Financial Statements of the Corporation as of and for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 shall be posted in the Corporation’s Website and through PSE Edge. The hard copy will be provided to any requesting shareholder, free of charge.
For questions, clarifications and inquiries, kindly contact UNH’s Corporate Secretary at unhcorpsec@gmail.com.
FDI
net inflows jumped 21% to $586m in May—BSP
By Thony Rose Lesaca
FOREIGN direct investments (FDI)
in the Philippines climbed 21.3 percent year-on-year to $586 million in May 2025, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Monday.
The BSP said in a statement the increase was due to non-residents’ net investments in debt instruments, which grew 88.3 percent to $427 million in May.
These investments in debt instruments consist of intercompany borrowing and lending between foreign direct investors and their Philippine subsidiaries, the bank said.
Net investments in debt instruments
Power rates likely higher in August due to weak peso
By Alena Mae S. Flores
MANILA Electric Co. (Meralco) said Monday power rates will be likely higher for August, driven by an expected increase in generation and transmission charges.
Meralco vice-president and spokesperson Joe Zaldarriaga said the generation charge would likely increase due to the peso’s depreciation against the US dollar to its weakest level this year, which impacts the dollar-denominated costs of independent power producers (IPPs) and power supply agreements (PSAs).
He said the higher prices in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) in July and the implementation of a National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) cost recovery would also contribute to the expected increase.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) earlier approved the NGCP’s cost recovery of about P28.29 billion, or about P0.0384 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). It also approved an average increase in the basic transmission charge of P0.0629 per kWh.
Meralco announced a P0.4883 per kWh increase in July, bringing the overall rate for a typical household to P12.6435 per kWh from P12.1552 per kWh in June.
The primary driver for the July increase was the generation charge, which rose by P0.3407 per kWh. Charges from Meralco’s PSAs and IPPs increased by P0.4476 and P0.4992 per kWh, respectively, due to higher fuel prices and a weaker peso.
consist mainly of intercompany borrowing and lending between foreign direct investors and their subsidiaries or affiliates in the Philippines.
Reinvestment of earnings remained stable with a 1.4-percent increase to $97 million in May 2025.
The gains were partly offset by a 61.4-percent decline to $62 million in non-residents’ net investments in equity capital.
Equity capital placements in May came mostly from the United States, Japan, Singapore and South Korea and were mostly in manufacturing, real estate, and electricity, gas, steam, and air-conditioning supply indus-
tries, the BSP said.
Data showed that in the first five months of 2025, total FDI net inflows declined 26.9 percent to $3.0 billion from $4.0 billion a year ago.
The BSP said its FDI statistics are different from the investment data of other government sources. It said its FDI data cover actual investment inflows, while the approved foreign investments data published by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) are sourced from investment promotion agencies (IPAs) which represent investment commitments, which may not necessarily be fully realized in a given period.
PH relaxes visa rules for Indian travelers, says Go
By Othel V. Campos
THE Philippines has relaxed visa rules for Indian travelers as part of efforts to boost foreign arrivals and tap high-growth tourism markets, OSAPIEA
Secretary Frederick Go said at the EJAP Economic Forum 2025 Monday at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.
Indians holding valid visas from the US, Japan, the UK, Australia, the Schengen area, Canada and Singapore can now enter the country visafree for up to 14 days, said Go.
“Tourism has always been one of the lowest-hanging fruits for our country to maximize, and I have long pushed for it, even back when I was still presidential adviser. Almost every country in the world now offers online visa applications, and we must keep pace if we want to compete,” Go said.
Go said the move addresses longstanding concerns over restrictive visa processes, noting that India offers Filipinos online visa applications while the Philippines previously required Indian visitors to apply in person at only three consulates.
Last year, just over 79,000 Indians visited the Philippines, below the hundreds of thousands to millions visiting neighboring Southeast Asian countries.
“With access now to 1.5 billion people in India, we can be looking at major tourism numbers,” Go said, citing the October launch of Air India’s direct Manila–New Delhi flights, the first in years. The route is expected to cut travel time from as long as 20 hours to just six hours.
According to the Department of Tourism (DOT), leisure remains the primary draw for Indian travelers, with a strong interest in beaches, shopping and educational tourism. DOT data show that Indians aged 25 to 44, mostly professionals, are high-yield visitors, with a 66-percent repeat rate.
India ranked as the 13th largest source market for the Philippines in 2024, with 79,366 arrivals.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed optimism about increasing these numbers through intensified marketing campaigns aimed at high-value and luxury travelers.
IN BRIEF
By Darwin G. Amojelar
BUDGET carrier Cebu Pacific (CEB)
said it is adding more flights to Bangkok, Da Nang, Melbourne and Sapporo in time for the holidays.
Starting Oct. 26, flights between Cebu and Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport will increase to four times a week with an added flight on Sundays.
The airline said it would boost the frequency of its flights between Manila and Da Nang to 10 times weekly starting Oct. 28, with two daily flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
Beginning Dec. 10, CEB will operate daily flights between Manila and Sapporo. Flights between Manila and Melbourne will increase to five times weekly starting Dec. 12, with an ad-
DOF pushes for general tax amnesty this year to boost augment funds
THE Department of Finance (DOF) said Monday it is pushing for a general tax amnesty bill this year to boost government funds.
ditional flight on Fridays.
“These additional frequencies reflect Cebu Pacific’s ongoing commitment to provide more accessibility, flexibility, and convenience to our valued passengers,” said CEB president and chief commercial officer Xander Lao in a statement.
“As travel demand continues to rise, these expanded services allow us to better connect Filipinos to the rest of the world and welcome more visitors to the Philippines,” said Lao.
He said the increased connectivity “also plays a key role in stimulating tourism, enabling business opportunities, and strengthening economic ties with our neighbors in the Asia-Pacific region.”
CEB was the first Philippine carrier to operate direct flights between Manila and Da Nang, a city in central
Vietnam, in December 2023.0
In October 2024, CEB started its Cebu-Bangkok (Don Mueang) route to expand connectivity from Cebu, known as the “Queen City of the South.”
CEB’s Manila-Sapporo flights, which started in January, have also become popular among travelers, according to the airline.
This year marks CEB’s seventh year of operations in Melbourne, Australia’s second-largest city.
Passengers can book flights through CEB’s multiple payment options, including credit and debit cards, and ewallets.
CEB operates in 37 domestic and 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia and the United Arab Emirates.
Recto also said the government is maximizing non-tax revenues from higher remittances of GovernmentOwned and Controlled Corporations and privatizing underutilized government assets.
“With tax collections projected to grow by an average of 10.2 percent annually from 2025 to 2028, total revenues are on track to hit nearly P6 trillion by the end of the President’s term,” Recto said. Darwin G. Amojelar
“Yes, but we’ll have to have it approved with the President or in the Cabinet,” Finance Secretary Ralph Recto told reporters on the sidelines of the EJAP Economic Forum 2025 when asked about the proposed bill’s timeline. The agency is still finalizing the amount of revenue that could be raised, Recto said. The proposed measure, which aims to enhance revenue administration and simplify tax compliance, would grant amnesties on estate tax and delinquencies. Under Republic Act No. 11213, or the “Tax Amnesty Act,” a general tax amnesty would cover all national internal revenue taxes, including income tax, withholding tax, capital gains tax, and value-added tax, among others, collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
executive Tony Isidro, consumer lending head Paul Xavier Villa and segment development manager Ana Cua
OMEGA AWARDS. Omega Healthcare, a leading provider of revenue cycle management (RCM) solutions, again celebrates the excellence of its Manila and Cebu teams during the Omega Global Awards (OGA) 2025 held at the Marco Polo Ortigas, Pasig. Now in its fourth consecutive year in the Philippines, the event continues to highlight the company’s deep appreciation for Filipino talent and commitment to employee recognition.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco meets with Bollylands.com executive producer Yogesh
Salgarkar to discuss the Philippines being a shooting location for Bollywood films and series. Source: DOT’s Facebook page.
ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY
Climate change toll to hit critical level by 2030
UNDP, PEZA hold forum on sustainability
THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in the Philippines brought together over 400 representatives from business and public sector to share the latest insights on global and national trends on sustainability reporting.
The session introduced UNDP’s Impact Measurement and Management (IMM) standards, a strategic advisory tool that public and private entities can utilize to integrate sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into decision-making.
The Philippines has adopted and integrated the SDGs into its country development plans and in its overarching strategy, most notably in the Ambisyon Natin 2040.
The financial and capital markets in the country have also introduced several reporting frameworks for listed securities. Data shows that as of 2021, 95 percent sustainability report submission rate has been achieved among public listed companies in the Philippines.
However, much more needs to be done to raise the overall quality and ambition of reporting, as highlighted by several participants during the session.
“The SDGs serve as a universal roadmap. But identifying the goals is just the first step,” said PEZA group manager for management information system and corporate planning group Rowena Naguit.
“The next one is for us to critically understand the impact we are making and ensure that our collective efforts bring about tangible and lasting change. This is precisely where impact measurement and management become an absolute essential,” she said.
Devahuti Choudhury of the UNDP Sustainable Finance Hub presented how three intersecting global crises― climate change and biodiversity loss, socio-economic inequalities and technological disruptions―are translating into material business risks. UNDP Philippines News
EXTREME weather events are taking their toll on the economy and the cost may reach critical level by 2030 if the Philippines fails to adopt climate resilient steps.
Intensified southwest monsoons and tropical cyclones Crising, Dante and Emong have caused recent widespread flooding, landslides and infrastructure damage across the country.
These climate-induced disasters led to the suspension of classes and work in the government, with cascading effects on productivity and economic stability.
Climate analytics, per the Climate Change Commission, indicate that the cost of inaction on climate change could reach serious level five years from now.
The agency said infrastructure damage could exceed P300 billion while productivity losses due to extreme heat might surpass P400 billion.
Business interruptions could amount to P528 billion and relocation-related costs for displaced communities may reach up to P8.9 billion.
CCC vice chairperson and executive director Robert E.A. Borje called for a robust research and development systems to address the far-reaching consequences of climate impacts.
“Resilience is one of our key responses to protect our economy from the impacts of climate change. The
National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and the Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan (NDCIP) are two critical frameworks the government has put in place to meet these challenges,” Borje said.
The CCC stressed the critical role of science-based data and research and development (R&D) in building a climate-resilient nation and protecting national wealth during the 8th National Research and Development Conference organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
The NAP, developed under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., aims to steadily reduce climate-related loss and damage and enhance the country’s adaptive capacity, targeting transformative resilience and sustainable economic development by 2050.
The NDCIP, meanwhile, places research, technology and innovation at the core of the country’s mitigation strategy to ensure that emissionreduction efforts also protect livelihoods, ecosystems and infrastructure.
Ayala Group joins DENR drive to plant 5m trees in six provinces
THE Ayala Group became the latest private company to participate in the reforestation program of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), joining 21 other entities in the registry.
The DENR on July 31 signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Ayala Group of Companies under its Forests for Life:
5 Million Trees by 2028 initiative, a flagship reforestation drive targeting critical watersheds in six provinces across the country.
The program aims to plant at least five million indigenous forest trees in Ilocos Norte, Bataan, Rizal, Leyte, Bukidnon and Lanao del Norte over the next three years, ensuring the survival of these planted trees.
The DENR urged the private sector to invest in large-scale reforestation efforts to combat climate change and gain access to carbon credits and new green economic opportunities.
Environment Secretary Raphael Lotilla stressed that forests are not only environmental buffers but also
Local leaders key in building resilient towns
Conclusion
By Dr. Selva Ramachandran
UNDP Resident Representative
IN 2023, UNDP signed Memoranda of Understanding with governors of two provinces in the Negros Island, together with the Philippines Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PhilBio).
This partnership enabled the implementation of finance solutions that mobilized resources for the conservation of nature in the provinces. Thereafter, we saw a significant increase in the total annual budget of Negros Oriental for coastal resources management, wildlife and biodiversity management, climate change mitigation and adaptation and forest resources management.
To address biodiversity loss and climate change, LGUs also spearhead nature-based solutions that could restore ecosystems and protect livelihoods, such as wetlands management, maintenance of green spaces, and ecosystem restoration.
In Negros Occidental, San Carlos City’s BaLANCE or Biodiversity and Landscape Approach in Nature Conservation is about to implement a proposed “Emerald Necklace”―a series of wildlife corridors that will be established and maintained to protect
wildlife and regenerate denuded forests within the boundaries of Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park.
I had the pleasure to visit Negros alongside H.E. Laure Beaufils, British Ambassador to the Philippines and Palau, to see how these efforts are being brought to life. The need for strong local leadership and strategic investments to ensure long-term environmental sustainability and resilience emerged very strongly during the visit.
Beyond conservation, LGUs play a crucial role in promoting social cohesion and participatory governance― involving citizens in decision-making processes help them develop a sense of ownership over local initiatives. UNDP, through BIOFIN, is also assisting the Negros provinces in accessing the trust fund created under Energy Regulation 1-94. The benefits from this trust fund can be used for electrification, livelihood and reforestation, watershed management, and health and environmental enhancement.
At the national level, the UNDP and DENR, through BIOFIN, and together with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), worked together to integrate biodiversity
climate and economic assets, citing the potential for carbon credits in sustainable forest management areas.
“Are we going to simply see ourselves as producers of carbon credits? Can we take a look at how we can catch or capture part of the value added?” Lotilla asked, challenging the business sector.
Lotilla said during the signing ceremony that the Philippines must move beyond being a passive supplier of carbon credits, and begin exploring opportunities to become a regional or even a global hub for high-integrity
carbon markets.
Lotilla said the Forest for Life program is not only a typical greening initiative, as it integrates satellite and drone monitoring, carbon sequestration tracking, and datadriven forest management to measure outcomes and eligibility for emerging carbon finance mechanisms, and ensures accountability.
“The private sector can help unlock their full value by leading investments in forest regeneration, carbon sequestration and naturebased solutions,” he said. PNA
indicators in the Seal of Good Local Governance.
The indicators will incentivize the LGUs to develop and implement projects and programs on wetlands and water management, on parks and green spaces development, and on wildlife resources conservation and protection. This is expected to increase biodiversity financing at the local level.
Achieving sustainable biodiversity conservation and financing for nature requires collaboration among LGUs, national agencies and international partners so that necessary resources, technical assistance, and platforms for knowledge exchange are made available and more accessible. At UNDP, we believe that the future is local and that empowered local governments pave the path to a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future. Local leadership is instrumental in advancing sustainable development and driving nature conservation through innovative and sustainable financing.
By empowering local governments and leaders and strengthening their capacity, we lay the foundation for resilient communities, a thriving environment, and a greener, more sustainable future for all. UNDP News
World is demanding action over plastic pollution
HIGH stakes negotiations got underway at the UN Geneva last week to agree on a legally binding treaty to curb plastic pollution, attended by delegates from nearly 180 countries.
“The world wants and indeed needs a plastic conventional treaty because the crisis is getting out of hand—and people are frankly outraged,” said Inger Andersen, UNEP executive director of the UN Environment Program (UNEP), the UN agency leading the talks.
“We know that plastic is in our nature, in our oceans, and yes, even in our bodies…What is sure is that no one wants to live with the
plastic pollution.”
Unless an international accord is inked, plastic production and waste is projected to triple by 2060, causing significant damage—including to our health—according to UNEP.
Switzerland’s top environment official Katrin Schneeberger echoed the call for a legally binding treaty, insisting that plastic waste “is choking our lakes, harming wildlife and threatening human health. This is more than just an environmental issue, it is a global challenge that demands urgent and collective action.”
Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the treaty negotiations,
Ms. Schneeberger underscored that there was “no call for a production cap” by producing countries.
“Reaching a shared understanding that measures are needed on both the production and consumption sides can help unlock the negotiations,” she said in her capacity as director of the Swiss Federal Office for the Environment.
Supporters of a deal have compared it to the Paris Climate Accord in terms of its significance. They have also pointed to the pressure allegedly being brought to bear against a deal by petrostates, whose crude oil and natural gas provide the building blocks of plastics. UN News
BIOFIN Philippines project manager Anabelle Plantilla (from left), United Nations Development Program Philippines Resident Representative Selva Ramachandran, Department of Environment and Natural Resources officials Manric Barillo, Vicente Rustico Calizar, Marcial Amaro Jr. and Paquito Melicor Jr. participate in the tree planting activity that took place at the Negros Oriental provincial capitol on September 18, 2023. BIOFIN
Residents ride a wooden boat past a submerged signage at a village in Calumpit, Bulacan province, north of Manila on July 25, 2025, after a river over-flowed due to heavy rains brought about by Typhoon Emong. AFP
TUESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
‘Weapons’ terrorizes competition at the tills
WEAPONS , a new horror film about the mysterious disappearance of a group of children from the same school class, opened atop the North American box office with $42.5 million in ticket sales, industry estimates showed Sunday.
“This is an outstanding opening for an original horror film,” analyst David A. Gross of Franchise Entertainment Research said of the Warner Bros. movie starring Julia Garner (Ozark) and Josh Brolin (Avengers: Infinity War). Debuting in second place was Disney’s Freakier Friday starring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2003 family film in which body-switching leads to amusing hijinks, at $29 million, Exhibitor Relations said.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Disney’s debut of the rebooted Marvel Comics franchise, dropped to third place at $15.5 million. Its overall take in the United States and Canada stands at $230.4 million. Actor-of-the-moment Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Emmy-winner Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Joseph Quinn star as the titular team of superheroes, who must save a retro-futuristic world from the evil Galactus.
Universal’s family-friendly animation sequel
The Bad Guys 2, about a squad of goofy animal criminals actually doing good in their rebranded lives, dropped to fourth, earning $10.4 million. Finishing out the top five was Paramount’s reboot of Naked Gun, a slapstick comedy starring Liam Neeson as Frank Drebin Jr., son of the bumbling police lieutenant from the original 1980s movie and related television series Police Squad!. The film, which co-stars Pamela Anderson, pulled in $8.4 million in its second weekend in theaters.
Rounding out the top 10 were Superman with $7.8 million, followed by Jurassic World: Rebirth at $4.7 million. F1: The Movie earned $2.8 million, while Together brought in $2.6 million and Sketch collected $2.5 million. AFP
By Angelica Villanueva
PINOY Big Brother: Celebrity Collab
Edition housemate Will Ashley is now being seen as a serious actor after being in showbiz for more than a decade. The 22-year-old Kapuso star is among the nominees for Best Supporting Actor at the 73rd Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) Awards for his performance in Balota
On Sunday, Aug. 10, Will took to his social media accounts to share the news, posting a photo from FAMAS and recalling that he learned of the nomination right after doing the opening for the COLLOVE concert.
“Wow Lord, i ba ka kumilos . Right after COLLOVE opening, ito nakita ko ,” he wrote on his Instagram story, tagging Balota director Kip Oebanda Will is nominated alongside actors Ruru
SHOWBIZ
By Angelica Villanueva
IWENT to the Korean OST Concert (KOSTCON) last Wednesday, Aug. 6, hoping to finally hear “Can You See My Heart” performed live, a track from one of my favorite Korean dramas, Hotel del Luna. What I didn’t expect was that the night would turn into a trip down memory lane, revisiting K-dramas that had become such a big part of my pandemic life.
Presented by Random Minds Inc., Hi5 Entertainment, and Kelebrity, the concert gathered seven Korean artists—Lee Mujin, Heize, Soyou, Chen of EXO, K.Will, Kim Bum Soo, and Lyn —whose songs have scored some of the most iconic scenes in Korean drama history. Manila was the second stop of the tour after Jakarta, with upcoming shows in Dubai, Bangkok, and Malaysia.
Singer-songwriter Lee Mujin opened the night with his feel-good tracks “Ordinary Confession” and “Rest” before performing “Rain and You” from the series Hospital Playlist 2 and “Sweet” from Business Proposal
“Normally, I don’t really sing ballad songs, but I carefully chose OST songs that I know you’ll enjoy,” he told the audience, closing his set with the song
Then came the moment I had been waiting for. Heize, known for her emotional vocals, opened her set with “The Last” from Our Blues before singing “Can You See My Heart.” The song’s first notes instantly brought me back to some of the iconic scenes from Hotel del Luna between Jang Man-wol, played by IU, and Goo Chan-sung, portrayed by Yeo Jin-goo. She also performed “Hold Me Back” from Queen of Tears and gifted a lucky fan a sunflower and signed album, even taking a selfie on the fan’s phone.
SISTAR’s Soyou followed, bringing the arena to a hush with “I Miss You” from Goblin. She also performed “No Sleep” from Love in the Moonlight, “Once More” from Empress Ki, and “Good to Be with You” from When the Camellia Blooms. Responding to fan requests, she sang an a cappella of “Touch My Body” before ending with the crowd favorite “Some.” Among the highlights was EXO’s Chen, also a KOSTCON favorite. He drew loud cheers with “Fall in Love Again” and “Best Luck” from It’s Okay, That’s Love. He also sang “Make It Count” from Touch Your Heart and “Everytime” from Descendants of the Sun “It’s very precious to be able to be onstage
to perform for all of you. I hope we can have more time singing together,” he said. Making his Philippine debut, K.Will performed “Love Blossom,” “All I Have Is My Heart” from Ghost Doctor, “Beautiful Moment” from The Beauty Inside, and “Talk Love” from Descendants of the Sun. He wrapped up his set with “Please Don’t.” Kim Bum Soo, marking 25 years in music, admitted he initially worried if the audience would know his songs. Those doubts faded as fans sang along to “A Love Begins with a Confession” from The Producers, “Journey” from his latest album, “Appear” from Secret Garden, and “I Miss You” from Stairway to Heaven. He ended with “Last Love.” Closing the night, Lyn performed “With You” from Descendants of the Sun, “Love Story” from Legend of the Blue Sea, “My Destiny” from My Love from the Star, and “Back in Time” from Moon Embracing the Sun By the end of the night, KOSTCON had become more than a chance to hear one favorite song live. It was a three-hour journey through the soundtracks that had once kept me company during quiet nights at home. Images by Josiah Antonio
By Jasper Valdez
QUEEN of All Media Kris Aquino announced she will go into preventive isolation for six months as she undergoes intensive treatment for multiple autoimmune diseases. In an Instagram post on Aug. 11, the 54-year-old TV host and actress said her condition has worsened, requiring her to make what she called a “life-or-death” decision.
She will stay in her family’s compound in Tarlac while receiving a combination of daily medication, injections, and an eight-hour infusion of a strong immunosuppressant.
Aquino shared that her recent twomonth stay at a private beach property helped her prepare for the treatment.
She also addressed the absence of her eldest son, Joshua , saying he has been “traumatized” by her frail condition and is living with a cousin. Her younger son, Bimby , she said, has been her “heaven’s gift” and constant caregiver.
She thanked her medical teams from Makati Medical Center and St. Luke’s BGC for their care, and appealed to the public to “continue praying” for her recovery.
Last month, Aquino clarified she remains cancer-free but now has nine primary autoimmune diseases, along with related complications.
Film critics call ‘Weapons’ as the scariest movie of the year
SON’S LOVE. Bimby Yap (left) helps his frail mother, Kris Aquino, to stand. The TV host will be in isolation for six months while undergoing treatment for multiple autoimmune diseases
Madrid ( Green Bones ), Joel Torre ( Under a Piaya Moon ), Sid Lucero ( Topakk ), Jhong Hilario ( And the Breadwinner Is… ), and Jeric Raval ( Mamay ). Balota earned four nominations, including Best Actress for Marian Rivera , Best Picture, and Best Editing. The FAMAS awarding ceremony will be held on Aug. 22 at the Manila Hotel.
Will Ashley plays the role of Enzo, son of Teacher Emmy, in criticallyacclaimed film ‘Balota’
Chen is one of the members of South Korean boy group EXO
Korean singer Heize is known for her hit tracks ‘Can You See My Heart’ and ‘Hold Me Back’
Lee Mujin opens the KOST concert with some of his songs including ‘Ordinary Confession’ and ‘Sweet’
LIFE & SHOWBIZ
The new Glorietta: Saying goodbye to an old ‘home’
Young CEO Kryzl Jorge gives back in a big way
By Rolando Ng III
IAM a sucker for all things “old.”
I have been given the gift of appreciating things from the past, the ones the world once held in its vastness. I am drawn to old radios, cassette tapes, and vinyl records. My fondness for them sparked my curiosity about how they were operated. I would pick them up and feel their features, noticing whether they were smooth, glossy, or aged. My YouTube and Spotify playlists, too, are filled with pre-Y2K music. Around the city at night, I would reinforce Sade’s “Hang on to Your Love” as I walk beneath its busy rhythm. Her luscious tone thrusts me back to my love for Ayala Center—a district where
professional wranglings and polished tastes meet. I have set foot in its environment multiple times. As such, I grew with the picture of this community as my standard in everything beyond “masa.”
People would say that Glorietta is a chore to navigate. I never realized until today that, true enough, it was a jungle—an arena where being lost is already an easy feat to make. On my first solo visit, I found myself alone on the second floor of Glorietta 4 as I searched for another way out. I only had the Activity Center as my guiding compass to make sure that I was already with the shopping public. I began to look around the mall’s design. The floors were polished, the wood in good quality shine. Its grilled fences complemented the posh color scheme of mahogany and cream white. These features, found in the upper floors of Glorietta 2
and 3, did not appear as if they had been in existence for 20 years. They added character, as if made for the wealthy—those who had finer things in life. It boosted its persona as the go-to spot for those who had money to gamble for good food, designer clothes, and everything within their reach.
As I left the place, I immediately looked forward to paying another visit. However, the pandemic placed everything on a standstill, including the ability to travel. Despite this, my desire to be in its form of luxury remained.
I have made my rounds around Glorietta since the lockdowns were lifted. It was still the same class and whatnot when I came back. However, they slowly began to place barricades and detour signs to inform patrons of a major redesign. I began to veer away from these sights as they were noisy—distracting—to
By Angelica Villanueva
entrée, rice, iced tea, and unlimited side dishes— available exclusively to dine-in guests across its branches in Newport, SM Mall of Asia, Evia, and Shangri-La Plaza.
But beyond the generous portions, the offer reflects what the restaurant has long been known for: a consistent in-store experience that
Yet, as soon as these were taken down, I was in awe of the byproduct. Old railings were now slowly covered in glass. The walls that surrounded them became wooden. It was starting to adapt the idea of reinventing itself into a contemporary design. Some portions, though still covered, are expected to don the same motif. Little by little, it would embrace the features of any other ordinary modern mall. My awe later turned to dismay. Yes, I am a fan of the “old” Glorietta—the Glo of class and style. Sadly, I may need to see the entire space lose its identity through its slow renovations within its four corners. It will take some time for me to adapt to its changes as someone who has grown up in its past. Its oldfashioned luxury is something I may need to say goodbye to, slowly.
Bistro Group, Bulgogi Brothers has built a loyal following by pairing traditional Korean flavors with unhurried, attentive service. Inside the restaurant, the mood is consistently relaxed. Staff are responsive without being intrusive, tables are neatly arranged for privacy and comfort, and the overall pace encourages diners to linger—whether they’re enjoying a full grill experience or a quiet stew. Some branches even feature cozy, semi-private nooks named after iconic Seoul districts like Itaewon and Gangnam, creating small pockets of quiet within the busy dining space. Optional add-ons like bottomless iced tea for P50 enhance the meal without complicating it. And for solo guests, the offer provides structure and value without losing the warmth that defines Bulgogi Brothers’ instore dining.
emphasizes care, comfort, and attention to detail. Since opening in 2011 under The
Over the years, the restaurant has welcomed a mix of Filipino and Korean diners, many of whom return for the consistency—not just in food, but in the way they’re treated. With BB All Day, Bulgogi Brothers reaffirms that good service isn’t just reserved for group gatherings or special occasions. Sometimes, it’s best enjoyed over a quiet, wellprepared meal for one.
Daniel Padilla said he is learning to grow his investments from his showbiz earnings, citing his involvement in restaurants and a stake in a local castle-themed park.
“Definitely, I still have a long way to go,” Padilla said. “I still have to learn a lot. But I think the foremost rule is to be hands-on. You just can’t be lax.”
Padilla, who turned 30 in May, described himself as a newcomer in business and said he often seeks advice from experienced entrepreneurs. He added that knowing branding operations has been his most important lesson so far.
“For me, your business is a reflection of who you are. So, when I don’t have tapings or shootings, I really make it a point to monitor everything,” he said.
The actor said he is focused on managing his finances to prepare for the future and for his family. Turning 30 has also made him more conscious about how he spends his time.
“Since I turned 30, I’m always awake now at the strike of 8:00 a.m.,” he said. “Now, I feel uneasy when I’m idle. I want to accomplish much for the whole day. In short, I want to be productive.”
Padilla said he spends free days attending to his businesses and spending time with family, while workdays start with meditation to maintain momentum. “I can say that at this point, I’m tougher mentally,” he said.
* * *
ACTOR Kelvin Miranda expressed gratitude to fans for the strong ratings of Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre , which he said has occasionally topped rival show FPJ’s Batang Quiapo
“Our deep gratitude to all supporters of our show,” Miranda said. “To all the Encantadiks, thank you so much for making it possible.”
Miranda said there is a possibility the show could be extended, with production already working on scheduling.
On the competition with Coco Martin’s longrunning drama, Miranda said ratings are not his focus. “Honestly, we don’t think of competition. Personally, I don’t base it if we’re winning or losing in the ratings chart. What’s important is we entertain our audience,” he said.
ACTOR
Shticks
Joseph Peter Gonzales
Daniel
The modern reimagination of Glorietta facade, which honors its iconic place in the Makati skyline
NICKIE WANG,
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
LIFE insurance has long carried a reputation for being a difficult conversation starter. For decades, it was framed around worstcase scenarios like illness, accidents, and death, making it a topic many Filipinos would rather avoid. Policies were often seen as necessary but somber, a safeguard tucked away for when tragedy strikes.
How Filipinos are rethinking life insurance
Today, that perception is shifting. More people, especially younger generations, are beginning to see life insurance not as a grim obligation but as a proactive way to protect dreams, care for loved ones, and even invest in their future. What was once a product tied to fear is now finding new meaning in empowerment, security, and love.
For 115 years, Insular Life has been a steady fixture in Filipino households, providing financial protection for generations. The country’s largest Filipino-owned insurer is now working to change how life insurance is sold and how it is perceived. Its brand expression, “Love in Life,” reframes insurance as an act of care rather than a precaution against fear. belongingness.”
officer
Very Wang Nickie Wang
Martinez said that while insurance has long been tied to illness, loss, or death, InLife is steering the conversation toward trust and care. “Fear and love are both deeply emotional,” she said. “When we prepare for the future—whether for a child’s education, a parent’s healthcare, or our own retirement—we’re really acting out of love.”
The message builds on values central to Filipino life, Martinez said. From breadwinners sacrificing for families to overseas workers sending money home, she pointed to a shared culture of interconnectedness.
SM HOTELS and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) announced that SMX Convention Center has been named Best Convention and Exhibition Centre – Philippines at the South East Asia Business Awards 2025, presented by APAC Insider. It is the second consecutive year the venue has received the recognition, having also won in 2024. SMX, the largest privately owned convention center operator in the Philippines, was cited for its nationwide presence, sustainability initiatives, and consistent commitment to service quality. The South East Asia Business Awards honor companies demonstrating exceptional business performance, service excellence, and innovation in the region, with winners selected after a meritbased evaluation by a panel of judges.
“Our culture is grounded in community,” she said.
“That’s where InLife meets them—by helping them secure what and who matters most.”
The campaign also speaks to younger Filipinos, including Gen Z. Martinez noted that many view insurance as expensive or meant for older people. “We’re changing that narrative,” she said.
“Financial preparedness is a love language—for yourself and for those you care about.”
InLife has introduced new products to complement its message. iProtect provides renewable term coverage at a lower cost, while Wealth Assure
Plus lets customers adjust coverage to fit their life stage. The Resilience plan focuses on critical illness protection for health-conscious consumers, Abundance helps policyholders save for specific milestones, and Retire Assure, described as the country’s first true retirement product, is designed to give retirees financial security.
“Love is felt when people know someone listens,” Martinez said, adding that the company has improved feedback systems and restructured to respond more quickly to customers’ needs.
“Technology is helping us pivot faster, but ultimately, it’s empathy that drives changes.”
“Love in Life” is being promoted through traditional and digital channels, from social media and radio to a jingle, dance video, and TikTok challenge. A Gen Z-focused campaign is also planned.
What gives the campaign weight, Martinez said, is credibility. “We’ve been here for 115 years. Through world wars, recessions, and pandemics—we’ve stood by our people. That’s not just business. That’s love in action.” TUESDAY,
Massive TVs bring cinema experience to Filipino living rooms
By Jasper Valdez
THE once-unimaginable idea of turning a living room into a private theater is inching closer to reality for Filipino households, thanks to a new wave of ultra-large television screens now hitting store floors.
This month, electronics brand TCL, in partnership with appliance retailer Abenson, unveiled what it bills as the largest display available in the country so far—a 115-inch Premium QD-Mini LED TV—during a launch event at Abenson Greenhills Madison in San Juan.
“We remain committed to bringing innovative, high-quality products
to Filipino families,” said Cyd Montebon, TCL Philippines deputy director of sales. “Solutions that not only elevate everyday living but also reflect the latest in technology and design.”
The company is banking on the appeal of “cinema at home” for families, sports fans, and gamers who want a more immersive setup without leaving the house. The screen’s sheer size, combined with newer display technology, promises to replicate the scale and clarity of a theater in a residential setting. A living room revolution For years, 55-inch and 65-inch models were considered the gold
standard for home viewing. As panel manufacturing evolved and prices for large-format displays began to ease, the demand for bigger screens climbed.
The pandemic also shifted entertainment habits indoors, making home theaters a more attractive investment.
Charlie Huang, deputy product director for TCL Philippines’ Brownline, said the development of new TVs is guided by three key factors: size, picture quality, and a smarter, faster system.
“Only the bigger size can bring the consumers the better experience,” he explained.
Huang added that Quantum Dot Mini LED is the best solution for large-format displays, offering higher brightness, longer lifespan, and better cost efficiency compared to OLED.
The 115-inch model also comes with higher dimming zones for deeper blacks, improved halo control for clarity in dark scenes, and peak HDR brightness to enhance contrast.
From showroom to sala
While the specifications are aimed at tech-savvy viewers, the brand and retailer are also selling the experience.
At the San Juan launch, guests sat in plush recliners with snacks and drinks, simulating the kind of setup a buyer might recreate at home.
The event highlighted not just the
“This award is a proud moment for all of us at SMX,” said Michael Jaey Albaña, vice president and general manager of SMX Convention Center. “It reflects the collaborative spirit and excellence that our team brings to every event, every venue, and every guest experience. This is more than a recognition of our infrastructure—it is a recognition of the people, the culture of service, and the bold vision that drives SMX forward as a catalyst for economic and event industry growth.” SMX Convention Center opened in 2007 and has since grown into a network of venues across the country hosting international conferences, trade expos, consumer fairs, corporate meetings, and milestone events. The company is expanding to meet demand for professional event spaces, with SMX Convention Center Seaside City Cebu scheduled to open in 2026 as its largest property to date, offering more than 21,000 square meters of leasable space. SMX is also pursuing a strategic pipeline of new venues nationwide.
As part of SMHCC, SMX is positioning itself as a driver of growth for the Philippine meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector, with a focus on service excellence, innovation, and destination development to boost the country’s standing as a host for global events. SMX has also been nominated at the World MICE Awards 2025, a program recognizing excellence in the global MICE industry. Voting is open until Sept. 19 at https://worldmiceawards. com/award/philippines-best-conventioncentre/2025. If successful, it will mark the venue’s fifth consecutive win in the category.
television’s capabilities but also how the right seating, lighting, and sound can complete the transformation into a personal
“At Abenson, our mission is to bring the good life to every Filipino household,” said Apple Ma, Abenson’s retail marketing head.
“The TCL 115-inch C7K is more than just a TV. It’s a cinematic masterpiece
Gae L. Martinez said. “Life insurance is not about fear
Abenson Greenhills
in San Juan
Deputy product director for TCL Philippines’ Brownline Charlie Huang explains how size, picture quality, and a smarter system drive TCL’s large-format TV innovations
SMX Convention Center celebrates its second consecutive Southeast Asia business award
introduces products like iProtect, Wealth Assure Plus, and Retire Assure to meet diverse customer needs
The campaign highlights financial preparedness as a love language for younger Filipinos
