Manila Standard - 2025 August 19 - Tuesday

Senate drug testing to resume

Escudero:

Process to be more effective, transparent

By Ram Superable

MANDATORY random drug testing will soon resume in the Upper Chamber, Senate President Francis Escudero confirmed Monday.

Escudero made the statement in response to a request from Senate Minority Leader Vicente Sotto III for random drug testing following reports of alleged marijuana use inside the Senate premises.

“I fully join you in this important initiative and wish to inform you that the Senate has every intention to conduct the MRDT (Mandatory Random Drug Test) for all the officials and employees of the Senate Proper and Senate Secretariat this 20th Congress,” Escudero said in a letter to Sotto.

On Monday, Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, along with all 35 members of his staff, voluntarily took a drug test and urged fellow senators to do the same. Zubiri explained that anyone who tests

positive will be suspended immediately and required to undergo rehabilitation.

He said the Senate minority bloc has already agreed to comply with the testing in response to reports of

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. yesterday ordered the Department of Health to ensure the smooth implementation of the “zerobilling” program in all DOH hospitals. He issued the order after visiting the Eastern Visayas Medical Center to inspect the government’s “zero-billing” program -- a policy that ensures patients confined in state-run hospitals will no longer be charged for medical expenses.

The initiative, jointly funded by the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Health Insurance Corp.

(PhilHealth), seeks to make hospitalization more accessible to millions of Filipinos who often struggle with high out-of-pocket healthcare costs.

The President acknowledged reports of long queues and confusion in some hospitals, but said the system appeared to be working well in Tacloban.

“Absolutely zero, zero billing. She doesn’t have to pay anything anymore,”

Mr. Marcos said in Filipino, recalling how one patient at the Center was discharged without settling any hospital fees.

“That’s the contribution of PhilHealth, that’s for the DOH. So, you can really see

By Pot Chavez

NATIONAL Bureau of Investigation Director Jaime Santiago will remain in his post until a permanent replacement is appointed, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla clarified on Monday.

Nadia quits as Padilla aide amid ‘pot’ issue

By Ram Superable

“In his resignation, he said that the irrevocable resignation was effective upon the appointment of his successor... The thought of an OIC [officerin-charge] has not crossed my mind now with respect to his request in his

Fisherfolk to benefit from P20/k rice on Aug. 29 DA

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is fast-tracking the rollout of President Marcos’ Marcos flagship food security program dubbed “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” which sells rice at P20 a kilo to 15 million households

DOJ moves to admit alias

‘Totoy’

as state witness

DEPARTMENT of Justice (DOJ)

Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said government prosecutors will move to discharge Julie Patidongan, the whistleblower in the missing sabungeros case, as one of the accused in the kidnapping and serious illegal detention complaints pending before the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 40.

“We will ask the court to discharge him as a state witness later on,” Remulla told reporters on Monday.

House issues rules on citizen’s role budget hearings

By Maricel V. Cruz

nationwide by 2026. Starting August 29, fisherfolk will be added to the growing list of beneficiaries of the subsidized rice program. Initially limited to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, and indigents, the program has since expanded to cover minimum wage

earners, Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Walang Gutom beneficiaries, and farmers and farm workers under the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. described the P20-rice pro -

By Ram Superable

SENATOR Erwin Tulfo on Monday

Tulfo, who chairs the Senate Committee on Games and Amusement, said banks impose higher thresholds for deposits and withdrawals compared to ewallets, which could discourage small daily wage earners.

“Low-income earners are losing

FORMER actress Nadia Montene

No to PH warships in Panatag—NMC

By Rex Espiritu

THE National Maritime Council (NMC) on Monday dismissed proposals to send Philippine Navy warships to Scarborough (Panatag) Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc, warning that such an action would be perceived as “warlike.”

NMC spokesperson Alexander Lopez made this clarification despite the unprecedented involvement of a Chinese warship that blocked a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) mission on August 11 and the presence of a fighter jet observed during the PCG’s inspection of the shoal on August 13.

Lopez echoed earlier statements by National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, noting that the PCG and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources—both civilian agencies—will remain the lead authorities for future missions at the shoal.

“We will not deploy our navy there to

Sandiganbayan convicts ex-LTFRB exec of graft

By Rio N. Araja

THE Sandiganbayan has found a former Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) executive director guilty of graft for receiving a P4.6-million bribe in exchange for an agency-issued permit.

The anti-graft court’s Sixth Division sentenced Samuel Jardin to spend six to 10 years in jail and ordered his perpetual disqualification from public office for violating Republic Act 3019 or the AntiGraft and Corrupt Practices Act.

In an 88-page decision dated Aug. 14, Sandiganbayan said Jardin was guilty beyond reasonable doubt of graft and corruption based on the CCTV footage as a piece of evidence and the testimony of Michelle Sapangila, representative of the SM Tungko MOA Operators and Drivers, Inc.

The former LTFRB official was directed to return the P4.6 million he received to the Sandiganbayan, which is subject to a legal interest of 6% per annum “from the finality of judgment until fully paid.”

match their navy. Why? Once you deploy a navy vessel there, you come in warlike… It’s like you are challenging them,” he said in a press briefing, partly in Filipino. “That is not the policy stand of our government.”

Lopez also said the direct participation of a warship could be seen as provocative and escalatory.

“We will not provoke, because we don’t know what will happen if two Navy vessels are there because miscalculation and misjudgment could happen, and that is the thing we do not want,” he added.

“Just because we don’t deploy does it mean we are being cowardly—no,” he continued, partly in Filipino. “We are

just being prudent; we are just being practical. And we do not want this situation to escalate.”

On August 11, a 157-meter People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA-N) warship with hull number 164 joined the blocking operations against the 44.5-meter BRP Suluan, resulting in a collision with an 80-meter China Coast Guard (CCG) ship, hull number 3104.

Both Chinese ships sustained damage, with CCG-3104’s forecastle crushed, while BRP Suluan managed to evade the maneuver.

Two days later, a PCG Cessna Caravan was intercepted by a PLA-N Air Force J-15 fighter jet over the waters off Panatag.

Grieving dad accuses cops of false charges

By Vince Lopez

SEVERAL Caloocan City police personnel are facing a complaint with the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) for allegedly filing a fabricated case against an individual they arrested, whose child later died of leptospirosis while searching for his father.

“The NAPOLCOM will always be on the side of truth and justice. We will ensure that every complaint is given due process, for no policeman is above the law, and every citizen deserves protection under it,” NAPOLCOM Vice chair-

person Rafael Vicente Calinisan said. Jayson Dela Rosa filed the complaint with NAPOLCOM against the police officers who allegedly arrested and detained him for illegal gambling.

He is the father of Angelo “Gelo” Dela Rosa, the 20-year-old who died of leptospirosis after wading through floodwaters while searching for him.

Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President Cardinal Virgilio David accompanied Jayson, along with lawyer Arnold Valenzuela, when they went to NAPOLCOM.

“That’s why I feel bad, because we

public servants themselves. Leadership must be beyond reproach and willing to undergo the standards of honesty and accountability,” he said.

just released a pastoral letter on online gambling. Now that it’s legal to use every person’s cell phone as a gambling device, gambling and casinos can now use your cell phones. And then you arrest this person who is just a plain criminal, and then I find out that he didn’t actually commit a case of illegal gambling,” Cardinal David said.

“I hope this can be rectified because, you know, I was worried. During the war on illegal drugs, many people came to me as the bishop of Caloocan asking for help regarding their relatives who were allegedly arrested for some crime.”

ness,” Escudero said.

Suspect nabbed in murders of two Japanese

By Vince Lopez

THE Manila Police District (MPD) through its Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) announced Monday that a suspect has been arrested in connection with a robbery incident that left two Japanese nationals dead in Malate, Manila over the weekend. Through meticulous backtracking and verification of events, including the retrieval of critical CCTV footage, the MPD established the movements of this individual before and after the crime. He was identified as the gunman.

The suspect reportedly frequented key locations along Pedro Gil Street and was captured on camera removing his facemask. This helped the authorities establish his identity.

Police also identified another person of interest who served as the tour guide of the victims. This individual was traced through multiple CCTV recordings across different areas in Manila and Pasay City.

MPD chief Brigadier Gen. Arnold Abad earlier formed SITG Malvar to thoroughly investigate the case and ensure that the victims would receive justice.

The shooting incident occurred on late Saturday evening, August 15, along Malvar corner Mabini streets—opposite the Sheraton Hotel in Malate, Manila. Initial results of the investigation positively identified the taxi the victims rode in before they were shot. They were temporarily staying at the Midas Hotel and Casino in Pasay City.

inside the Senate premises.

Senator Robin Padilla, in response to the issue, filed Senate Bill No. 1200, or the Drug-Free Government Act that seeks to make annual drug testing mandatory for government officials.

It also encourages candidates to voluntarily take a drug test within 90 days before an election.

“If the people are expected to be free from illegal drugs, it should begin with

Escudero said the most recent MRDT was carried out on March 20. Preparations were underway for another round but given the elections in May, testing would resume in the 20th Congress.

“We are currently finalizing the new policy order on MRDT in consultation with the Medical and Dental Bureau, the Senate Legal Counsel, the Human Resources Management Service and the Senate Committee on Mental Well-

in possession of a vape with grape-flavored scent.

“We have also tightened the intervention measures, drawing from actual experience and knowledge gained from past implementations, to ensure a more effective and transparent process moving forward,” he added.

Escudero said from 2018 to early 2020, more than 2,300 individuals underwent drug testing.

The policy was suspended in March 2020 after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and in compliance with health protocols.

Remulla:...

resignation (letter),” Remulla told reporters hours after DOJ spokesman Mico Clavano said the department has endorsed two officials to temporarily oversee the NBI.

Earlier in the day, Clavano said the department was recommending Justice Undersecretary Jesse Andres and Assistant Secretary Eliseo Cruz to head the NBI in an acting capacity.

that it’s like that,” he added.

He tasked Health Secretary Ted Herbosa and DOH officials to ensure that all government hospitals are properly trained to implement the procedures nationwide.

“Make sure that the procedure is not only known here. They should be familiar with it in all of our DOH hospitals,” Mr. Marcos said.

Under the program, patients with minor illnesses are encouraged to first visit Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service (BUCAS) Centers, which handle non-confinement cases.

Those who need further treatment are then referred to hospitals, where their confinement is covered by the zero-billing policy.

The president said the initiative is part of broader healthcare reforms, which include expanding specialty centers, upgrading hospital facilities, and increasing the capacity of government-run health institutions.

“This is one good thing, but we need to do more for the healthcare system,” he said. “We can really see an improvement.”

In Montenegro’s resignation letter dated Aug. 15, she vehemently denied being the staff referred to in the stories and described the allegations as “unfounded” and “maliciously shared to the media.”

She said the incident report that circulated on social media was misleading, adding that on Aug. 12, no marijuana was found and that she was only

“I vehemently deny that I am the staff of the senator mentioned in those articles. There was no incident wherein a personnel of the OSAA (Office of the Sergeant at Arms) went to our office and found me in the restroom and asked me about the alleged smell of marijuana in the restroom of our office,” she said.

“I denied smoking or using marijuana inside the comfort room… If only this Honorable Office will secure the CCTV footages, it can be vividly es-

tablished that I even showed him said vape,” Montenegro added. Montenegro said the issue has caused “great pain and distress,” prompting her decision to resign “for the sake of my mental health and the welfare of my children.”

“My decision to resign should not be misconstrued as an admission of guilt -- it is not. Rather, it is a demonstration of my deep respect for the Senate and Senator Padilla’s office,” she said. Marijuana use is illegal in the Philippines, covering both medical and recreational purposes.

“We have endorsed names to the President’s Office in an acting capacity. But in terms of the actual permanent replacement, that is something (Secretary Remulla) is still mulling over. He is still thinking about who could possibly take over,” Clavano said.

“We can’t have a gap or interruption in what we’re doing in the NBI, especially now that we’re fighting against the inshore gaming operators. We need the NBI to be in its top form,” he added.

Remulla said he intends to speak with Santiago again, noting there were no threats against the former judge even if the latter may have felt a “great deal of discomfort.”

ject as the DA’s “biggest challenge” in the years ahead.

While nearly 400,000 families are already being served, Laurel said scaling up operations requires “full support” across the agency.

“We have the stocks. We have the budget. What we need now is urgency and unity,” he said, citing a P10-billion increase in rice program funding under the proposed 2026 national budget.

The

their daily wages to online gambling. What is frustrating is that gambling operators quickly found ways to bypass the restrictions,” Tulfo noted.

The lawmaker explained that opening and maintaining a bank account typically requires at least P10,000, making it harder for wage earners to divert their limited earnings to gambling.

Tulfo said his team is monitoring how gambling companies continue to exploit loopholes despite state regula-

“It is still being evaluated,” he said.

The DOJ chief also said the evaluation process on separate murder complaints filed by the families of the missing cockfighting enthusiasts is still ongoing.

Remulla added that the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recently briefed Department of Justice (DOJ) officials on its continuing search operations in Taal Lake, Batangas, where the sabungeros were allegedly buried.

“This morning we had a briefing

People’s Participation, the Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department, the Press and Public Affairs Bureau and the Legislative Security Bureau.

tions, including the continued use of ewallets as a payment system even without direct links. He cited BingoPlus, a gambling platform, which notified users that its services could be accessed through Viber shortly after the e-wallet restrictions took effect.

from the Coast Guard and they just described to us the work that they do and they gave us a briefer on the work going on, because there have been 40 days of diving already,” he said.

He disclosed that divers found “positive” indications in one area. At least 34 sabungeros went missing

Santiago earlier showed newspaper clippings suggesting that a certain “Paul Tangkad” from the NBI special task force unit served as his “authorized bagman” to collect payola from e-sabong and even POGO operators. Santiago said he has already ordered the NBI Central Luzon Regional Office (CELRO) to investigate the issue.

between April 2021 and January 2022 after participating in e-sabong games and cockfighting derbies across Metro Manila and Southern Tagalog.

The high-profile case has since prompted the government to ban online cockfighting operations due to links with criminal syndicates.

hearings, obtain materials presented during deliberations, file written position papers within set deadlines, and present consolidated sectoral views at points designated by the chamber.

To manage participation, the Secretariat created a Task Force on People’s Participation composed of offices from the Secretary General, the Committee on Appropriations, the Committee on

The task force will handle accreditation, circulate schedules and briefings, assist observers during proceedings, and route submissions to members and committees.

All accredited groups will attend an orientation on a code of conduct and rules of decorum covering document access, behavior inside halls and galleries, and basic security and safety protocols.

The memo details a simple accreditation track for civil society and people’s organizations, whether registered or not, based on a letter of intent and a basic profile of the group’s constituency and work.

Up to two representatives per organization may be accredited. Accredited observers can access hearing briefs and submit position papers within 48 hours after an agency’s budget hearing for inclusion in the record.

Livestreams and archives of budget sessions are provided through official House channels to widen public access,

while the task force may limit in-person gallery attendance when needed. “We are working on the most open Congress in recent memory. We are ensuring that the Congress remains open, listening and ready to work, so that we can pass a genuine ‘Budget of the People,’” Romualdez said.

House Secretary General Reginald Velasco said the interim rules will apply for one budget cycle, after which the House will review implementation with civil society and refine the framework either through House rules or legislation.

P100m Ormoc solar project unveiled

IN BRIEF

‘Bullying crisis needs stronger mental support’

AMID alarming reports on campus bullying, a House leader renewed his call for stronger protection and support systems for learners—especially those in higher education—through his proposed Campus Mental Health Improvement Act (House Bill 3397).

House deputy minority leader and Quezon City Rep. Patrick Michael Vargas issued the call as the Department of Education (DepEd) records thousands of bullying cases annually, ranging from physical assaults to cyberbullying. In school year 2021–2022 alone, DepEd reported 404 student suicides and 2,147 suicide attempts.

Vargas said that despite the magnitude of the problem, only two percent of schools nationwide have fully functioning Child Protection Committees. He stressed that most policies focus only on children in basic education, leaving those in college still struggling with the scars of bullying. Maricel V. Cruz

PA chief visits wounded soldiers, awards medals

MGEN. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division and Joint Task Force Orion, visited soldiers wounded in a recent clash with armed lawless elements in Maimbung, Sulu, and conferred on them the Wounded Personnel Medal (WPM) on August 16. The wounded personnel — Cpl. Richard S. Sayno, Cpl. Harol B. Ugay, and Pfc. Aldwin Renz S. Dindin — were airlifted from Sulu the same evening and are now undergoing treatment at Camp Navarro General Hospital in Zamboanga City. Another soldier, Pfc. Jumel M. Tambo-ong, is recovering at the Camp Bautista Station Hospital in Jolo, Sulu. Rex Espiritu

German

Embassy to PH: Resolve Alvarez slay

THE German Embassy in Manila has urged Philippine authorities to act on the still-unresolved case of human rights defender Zara Alvarez, as the country marked the fifth anniversary of her killing on August 17.

In a statement, the embassy stressed the need for a thorough and impartial investigation, saying accountability remains elusive five years after Alvarez was gunned down in Bacolod City.

“Five years on, justice for her and her family remains elusive. Accountability for this killing and all other killings of human rights defenders are critical tests for the rule of law,” the embassy said. It added that ending impunity is essential as it erodes the foundations of democracy. Katrina Manubay

Conflict within PNP resolved, says Torre

By Vince Lopez

PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP)

chief General Nicolas Torre III on Monday said that recent issues within the PNP have already been “resolved” through discussions among the concerned officials, all with the common goal of public service.

The PNP chief gave the statement after the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) issued a resolution reversing the reassignment of senior police officials, including the Deputy Chief for Administration, the second

highest post in the force.

“We do not deny that conflicts happen, but these are all administrative in nature, and I am confident they will be resolved within the organization. Since the matter came out, I have not made statements about the conflict, and that was intentional,” Torre said.

“I believe this will be resolved internally. It is simply a case of dialogue and explanation. We have the same purpose, the same goal, and the same direction. It is all for the good of the Filipino people,” he added.

Torre declined to comment direct-

ly on whether his assignment orders to Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez and Lt. Gen. Bernard Banac would prevail. However, during Monday’s flag-raising ceremony in Camp Crame, he formally recognized Banac as the PNP’s Deputy Chief for Administration.

“The PNP is united. No order, no obstacle, and no challenge can destroy our unity and our commitment to the nation,” Torre said. “As we salute our flag today, let us remember that our service is not for ourselves but for the Filipino people.”

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday inaugurated a P100million solar-powered irrigation system in Ormoc City, calling it a milestone in the government’s push for climate-smart farming and renewable energy use in agriculture.

The R.M. Tan Solar Pump Irrigation Project (SPIP), the largest facility of its kind in Eastern Visayas, is designed to irrigate 100 hectares of farmland twice a year and support 92 farming families. Officials said the project is expected to increase crop yields while lowering production costs.

Mr. Marcos said the project would replace costly diesel pumps with solar power, giving farmers a cheaper and more sustainable irrigation system. The system includes seven solarpowered pumps with 10-horsepower capacity across two sites. It is part of a broader initiative by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) to roll out similar projects nationwide, in line with the administration’s renewable energy and food security goals.

NIA Administrator Eduardo Guillen, NIA Biliran-Leyte del NorteLeyte del Sur Manager Conrado Samson, and representatives from the agency’s central and regional offices joined President Marcos during the inspection. Members of the R.M. Tan Irrigators Association and farmerbeneficiaries also attended the event. Agriculture modernization has been a key priority of the Marcos administration, with solar-powered irrigation identified as a long-term solution to rising fuel costs and the need for sustainable farming practices.

PNP: 10k cops for Bangsamoro polls in October

By Vince Lopez

AROUND 10,000 police officers have been deployed to ensure safe and secure elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary polls scheduled on October 13, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre said on Monday. A gun ban is in effect from August 14 to October 28.

In a press briefing at Camp Crame, Torre said the deployment covers various parts of BARMM, while the Commission on Elections (Comelec) resolution mandates the gun ban for the entire election period.

Torre added that 94 of 108 towns and municipalities were placed under the “red category,” or areas of grave concern. Two more towns—Buluan in Maguindanao del Sur and Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao del Norte— were placed under Comelec control. The PNP chief said measures are being taken to prevent poll-related violence. “All the security measures we are implementing are part of the preparation to ensure safe, peaceful, and credible elections in the region,” Torre said.

AFP vows support for NTF-ELCAC

By Rex Espiritu

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday reaffirmed its commitment to support the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) in advancing the government’s peace agenda, following the acquittal of several senior communist leaders. AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla issued the statement after the Taguig Regional Trial Court acquitted Tirso Alcantara and four others, all identified as senior officials of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPANDF).

Padilla stressed that while the AFP respects the judiciary, the acquitted

individuals should not be seen merely as activists, but as leaders of an organization legally designated as a terrorist group in the Philippines.

“These are not merely activists, but individuals who held significant leadership roles in an organization legally designated as terrorist, one that for decades perpetrated violence and inflicted suffering upon Filipino communities,” Padilla said. She emphasized that the ruling should not be considered the end of the government’s counterinsurgency campaign. Instead, the AFP views it as a call to “double our resolve,” underscoring the importance of sustained military operations, community engagement, and intelligencedriven initiatives.

SOLAR PUMP PROJECT.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and National Irrigation Administration head Eddie G. Guillen inspect the RM Tan Solar Pump Irrigation Project (SPIP) in Ormoc City, Leyte on August 18.

FLOWERS FOR MISS EARTH. Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla and Vice Mayor Rowena Mendiola present a plaque and bouquet of flowers to reigning Miss Earth Philippines 2025 Joy Barcoma during a program on August 18, at Strike Gym in the Bacoor Government Center, Barangay San Nicolas 2. Dennis AbrinaZ

VISITING THE WOUNDED. MGen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of the 11th Infantry ‘Alakdan’ Division and Joint Task Force Orion, visits soldiers wounded in a recent clash with armed lawless elements in Maimbung, Sulu, and confers on them the Wounded Personnel Medal (WPM) on August 16.

IN BRIEF

PH, US armies affirm enduring partnership

UNITED STATES defense officials have reaffirmed the enduring partnership between the Philippine Army (PA) and the U.S. Army during a courtesy call on newlyappointed Army chief, Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete at the Philippine Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

In a statement, the PA said Col. Daniel J. Oh, senior defense officer and chief of the Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group–Philippines (JUSMAG-PHIL), and Col. John Matthew Sova, U.S. Army attaché, met with Nafarrete to discuss strengthening interoperability and sustaining joint military engagements.

Nafarrete assured the American delegation of continuing bilateral collaboration, citing regular joint exercises such as the annual Salaknib and the multilateral Balikatan, during which PA engaged in combined training and subject matter expert exchanges with their US counterparts.

Oh oversees both security and non-security assistance missions, including military-to-military programs under the Mutual Defense Board. Rex Espiritu

BI halts two Chinese with fake exit papers

BUREAU of Immigration (BI) operatives have arrested two Chinese nationals who tried to leave the country through the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 with fake exit clearances.

The two foreigners, identified as Li Jiangcheng and Liao Weibin, were prevented from boarding their plane bound for Singapore.

The BI said the two Chinese were caught during redundancy records verification of departing passengers.

“The officers found out that both clearances were counterfeit and that both Li and Liao were already overstaying aliens, and have falsified their clearances to avoid being detected,” the BI said. Vito Barcelo

Soldiers hold outreach mission in N. Cotabato

TROOPERS of the Army’s 10th Field Artillery “Rolling Thunder” Battalion (10FAB) partnered with local radio station to conduct an outreach program at Cuyapon Elementary School in North Cotabato on Aug. 15.

This particular school was chosen due to its vulnerability to floods. The surrounding sitios of Upper Silangan, Lower Silangan, and Pangatog serve as natural catch basins, forcing students to travel by boat or wade through floodwaters just to attend classes.

A total of 158 students from Kindergarten to Grade 6 received assistance. The program distributed 77 hygiene kits to the pupils to promote personal health and 101 school supply kits for Kindergarten to Grade 3 learners.

School principal Glyziel Anne Graviles thanked the organizers, saying the activity delivered not just supplies, but also “a strong message of compassion and hope” to the learners. Rex Espiritu

Romualdez hails launch of digital ID for seniors

By Maricel V. Cruz

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Monday

welcomed the launch of the digital National Senior Citizen ID (NSCID) through the eGovPH app, calling it “the start of a new chapter in how government cares for senior citizens”— making access to benefits and services faster, safer, and more dignified.

“Today’s technology has made life easier with just a tap on our phones. The same speed and efficiency should also apply to the delivery of government services, especially for our senior citizens who deserve comfort and dignity in their twilight years,” Romualdez said.

be victimized by fixers or scammers pretending to ‘assist’ them. Wala nang bibilis pa sa tiyak at ligtas na eGovPH app (Nothing gets faster than the secure and secure eGovPH app),” he said.

UPAA honors 54 members, 10 alumni families

By Rex Espiritu

THE University of the Philippines Alumni Association (UPAA) has conferred awards to 54 outstanding members and 10 alumni families during its annual awards ceremony, recognizing the honorees “who embody the values of honor, excellence, and service.” This year’s roster of honorees consisted of 47 individuals, three alumni chapters, four recipients of the Presidential Service Award, and 10 families conferred with the Multigenerational Alumni Family Award.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, a 1968 Political Science graduate and former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, received the UPAA Most Distinguished Alumni Award. The Distinguished Achievement Awards went to five alumni, among them Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla and Associate Justice Jhosep Lopez.

Meanwhile, the Distinguished Alumni Awards went to Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, AntiRed Tape Authority Secretary Ernesto Perez, Court of Appeals Associate Justice Angelene Mary Quimpo-Sale, and Justice Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes Andres.

“Through the eGovPH app, our senior citizens can immediately see their benefits and services—no need for long queues or extra hassle,” Romualdez said in Filipino.

The Speaker also highlighted the measure’s protective value. “Because the information is already in the app, seniors are less likely to

He stressed that the digital NSCID is not just an ID card but a reflection of President Marcos’ commitment to modernize governance and bring public service closer to every Filipino.

The initiative, jointly launched by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), opens a new chapter in streamlining access to senior citizens’ rights and privileges, such as discounts on food, medicine, transport, healthcare, and other essentials.

It is expected to benefit 8.4 million senior citizens already registered for the national ID, with 1.2 million accounts activated on eGovPH to date.

Those with a national ID and an active eGovPH account will automatically have their digital NSCID generated— no extra forms or paperwork needed.

way for construction of a waste-to-energy facility as part of a Metro Manila flooding control project funded by the World Bank and  the Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank. The group charged that the ongoing eviction violates the Urban Development and Housing Act (Republic Act 7279), which mandates local governments to provide relocation, observe due process, and ensure humane treatment during evictions. Danny Pata

15th regional tourism fair hits Cagayan

By Ratziel San Juan

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) and its marketing and promotions arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) hosted the 15th episode of the Regional Trade Fair (RTF) held in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan on Aug. 15-17.

The fair, which explores and conducts events in different regions nationwide, seeks to sell and promote domestic tour packages.

It sets out to achieve this goal by showcasing the best local products and services in partnership with the Tourism Department’s regional offices, local government units (LGUs), and private industry players.

“We are proud to bring the 15th Regional Travel Fair to Tuguegarao City, a place that naturally captivates with its breath-taking landscapes and

deep-rooted traditions,” TPB chief operating officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles said.

“This event continues to inspire local and global travelers to celebrate the enduring beauty and cultural richness of our country. Through this initiative, we hope to strengthen regional pride and empower tourism stakeholders by bringing attention to the distinct experiences that make Tuguegarao City truly special,” she added.

The 15th RTF offered local tours for buyers, exhibitors, and guests to explore both heritage landmarks and natural attractions in the Cagayan Valley, specifically in the provinces of Cagayan and Isabela.

These activities helped showcase destinations that participants can promote to tourists on the lookout for cultural, historical, and adventure experiences in the region.

NAVOTAS City Rep. Toby Tiangco has advised his constituents to temporarily avoid navigating the Tangos River channel on boats, citing the request of contractor that bagged the repair of the damaged Tangos-Tanza Navigation Gate.

In a social media post, Tiangco said the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the contractor were asking for at least three days moratorium on crossing the Tangos River channel to give way for uninterrupted maintenance works and repair on the navigational gate.

Tiangco also posted an appeal by DPWH-National Capital Region (NCR) director Gerard Opulencia, who identified one of the two contractors involved as St. Timothy Construction Corp..

The DPWH clarified that the three-day prohibition would allow “essential maintenance and repair works” to be carried out on the navigation gate.

“These activities are necessary to ensure the operational integrity of the navigation gate and to prevent potential obstructions or damages. More importantly, the restriction is being requested to ensure the safety of personnel, workers, and all other stakeholders during the implementation of these works,” the letter stated.

St. Timothy, owned by the Discaya family, was one of the 15 contractors identified by President Marcos which cornered 20 percent of total P545 billion allocation for flood control projects. President Marcos last month visited flood-hit Navotas to assess the damaged Tangos-Tanza Navigational Gate and check on families displaced by recent severe flooding.

The President assessed the 30-yearold flood control structure, which has been under repair following significant damage. The Tangos-Tanza (MalabonNavotas) Navigational Gate serves as a critical barrier against high tide and flooding along the Navotas River.

Maricel V. Cruz

ALUMNI AWARDS. The University of the Philippines Alumni Association (UPAA), in a reunion of sorts, honored 64 distinguished members, groups, and families during its annual awards ceremony, This year’s roster of honorees consisted of 47 individuals, three alumni chapters, four recipients of

DON’T TEAR DOWN OUR HOMES. Informal residents of Brgy 128 Upper Smokey Mountain in Tondo, Manila stage a protest rally the Manila City Hall to urge Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso to call off the demolition on the shanties in their area to make

OPINION

A crime against public good

THE recent site inspection of President Marcos Jr. of a flood mitigation structure in Bulacan is a perfect example of what is happening to government projects where it seems the culture of graft and corruption is embedded, Santa Banana!

Take, for example, a government project costing, let’s say, 100 million pesos, awarded to a contractor with the government official sponsorship of the project getting 20 percent and with designers and other people in the public works department getting almost as much as another 20 percent.

It is easy to predict what can happen to a government project because of the culture of greed in the government.

It becomes a fight between corruption and public good.

It is easy to blame the contractor for a substandard bridge, for instance, because at the rate graft and corruption is embedded in government projects, contractors have to survive.

In the final analysis, Santa Banana, to survive, a contractor for instance has to make up for all the percentages of a contract given to corrupt public officials.

I recall the recent example of a bridge that collapsed and the reason for that is that the materials used in building that bridge were substandard and the bridge itself was ill-designed.

I wonder why the government never went through with investigating what happened to that bridge.

But it is easy to determine what happened because of the culture of graft and corruption in government.

You might ask, Santa Banana, what can be done to stop all these things.

I have been a journalist and columnist for over 70 years. I recall that people always complain against graft and corruption in government projects.

Personally I have serious doubts if graft and corruption will ever stop as far as government projects are concerned because of the culture of greed.

I believe it is almost impossible to stop it. Yes, you can minimize graft and corruption in government projects but it cannot be stopped because the culture of greed of people in government has been embedded in the system.

That is the tragedy of the government because of the culture of graft and corruption, my gulay!

It would be impossible to audit every government project because there are millions of government projects going on.

You can only minimize it by setting up examples of people involved in graft and

corruption spending the rest of their lives in prison, but, as I said,, at the rate things are going on it is impossible for government to stop the culture of graft and corruption which has always been the biggest complaint of the people.

I do not like to say this but there are many things happening which are beyond our control.

Take what happened to all the flood control projects in Metro Manila and surrounding provinces.

We can only estimate not only how much money was lost to graft and corruption that could have been spent to give the people better lives.

I do not know how President Marcos Jr. and his Cabinet will handle this problem of graft and corruption because it is already a culture of greed embedded in most government people.

We can at least minimize graft and corruption, but to wipe it out entirely is a big problem and almost impossible

All I can propose is for our government leaders to minimize it because the people are becoming the victims of all of the culture of greed embedded in the government.

In all the years I have been a journalist, graft and corruption in government has always been the biggest problem for every government leader to handle.

All I can say is that elections in fact promote the cycle of corruption because the constituents of elected officials demand and expect that the elected officials will help them, so the elected officials in turn will tell you, “Where will I get the money to help you and to make your lives better?”

That is why I present this problem to the government: how to solve this culture of greed.

It is actually the money of the people that could have been spent to make their lives better.

To me I am at a loss how to end graft and corruption in government.

All I can say is, we can at least minimize it, but to wipe it out entirely is a big problem and almost impossible.

The Magalong-Castro showdown

IN BARANGAY Balete, Bulacan, the Santos family’s screams were drowned by a July 2025 mudslide.

A ₱500 million floodwall, meant to shield their home from the Angat River, collapsed under Typhoon Carina, killing three children. The contractor, a front for a congressman’s cousin, siphoned 60 percent of the budget, leaving a structure as flimsy as a lie.

This isn’t just tragedy—it’s the bloody signature of systemic corruption in the Philippines’ flood-control projects, where ₱545 billion has been funneled since 2022, with ₱100 billion concentrated among 15 contractors and ₱350 billion lost to vague, suspect deals.

The Magalong-Castro clash is a highstakes duel exposing this rot. Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, a former cop who dismantled syndicates, volunteered to lead a national probe, alleging 67 congressmen used dummy contractors to loot public funds. Malacañang’s Press Officer Claire Castro rebuffed him, directing evidence to President Marcos via Regional Project Monitoring Committees (RPMCs).

This isn’t about procedure—it’s a battle between insurgent truth and a system wired to shield the powerful, leaving Filipinos to drown. Clash of Titans: Truth-Teller vs. Palace Gatekeeper Magalong is a battle-scarred crusader. As CIDG chief, he exposed “ninja cops,” toppling a PNP chief. His Mamasapano probe bared government failures.

In Baguio, his administration’s AIdriven flood monitoring, backed by Asian Development Bank funding, bolstered resilience.

His claim of 67 congressmen rigging contracts—backed by a leaked ledger listing shell companies and identical ₱50 million deals—carries weight.

Untethered to DPWH or congressional cliques, he’s an outsider in a cesspool of insider deals.

Castro’s rejection, cloaked in bureaucratic logic, hides a deeper game. RPMCs monitor projects but lack prosecutorial teeth, staffed by insiders loyal to the accused.

Her call to “submit proof” to Marcos sounds efficient but protects his coalition, including allies like Speaker Martin Romualdez, from implosion before the 2028 presidential race.

Marcos must choose: empower Magalong or let corruption’s floodwaters engulf the nation

Marcos’ SONA vow to shame corrupt officials casts him as the sole anti-graft champion. Empowering Magalong risks fracturing that narrative—and his political base.

Blood on the Budget: Lives Lost, Fortunes Stolen

Picture Juanita Reyes, a Nueva Ecija farmer, wading through ruined rice fields after a ₱500 million “ghost” canal, awarded to a contractor with no credentials, vanished. Her family faces debt and hunger,

EDITORIAL

Yes, enough must be enough

WHEN President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. told corrupt government leaders to be ashamed of themselves following the uncontrolled failure of flood projects in his fourth State of the Nation Address last month, he made an evident vow.

And his catchphrase “mahiya naman kayo” continues to reverberate among the population as the country, still reeling from the impact of floodwaters, anxiously waits for other storms to lash it from the vast Pacific.

The President said he inspected the flood projects and saw how ineffective they were against cyclones Crising, Dante and Emong, as well as the southwest monsoon rains.

Earlier this month, Mr Marcos disclosed in the presidential website the identities of contractors who routinely monopolize the government’s flood control projects.

We heard him say there will be charges filed against those found connected to anomalous transactions, and many, including those in the countryside, some of whom are still immersed in floodwaters, are watching the President’s body language in the less than three years he still has left of his sixyear term.

while the contractor, tied to a congressman’s kin, cruises Manila in a Porsche. This is normalized betrayal: 60 percent of flood-control budgets vanish to kickbacks, leaving dikes that crumble and rivers that choke.

PAGASA warns of 20 typhoons yearly, killing hundreds and displacing thousands. The poor bear the brunt, their livelihoods washed away while elites profit.

Magalong’s Ledger: Crusader or Con Artist?

Magalong’s backers see a hero.

His PDEA probe exposed drug recycling; his Baguio reforms slashed red tape. A 2023 Pulse Asia survey gave him 79 percent approval in the Cordillera.

Yet skeptics pounce. In 2022, COA flagged Baguio’s ₱680 million flood contracts for lax oversight.

A 2023 graft case, dismissed in 2025, fuels whispers of hypocrisy. His Duterteera ties, marred by a 2021 COVID protocol misstep, paint him as a potential

He has ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways to submit a list of all the flood control projects across all the regions within the last three years, stressing the Regional Project Monitoring Committee shall

We hold the faith the President will go beyond the sound bite and address promptly the higher concerns of majority of his countrymen

examine that list of projects and give a report on those that have been failures, those not finished, and those alleged to be ghost projects. The list has been made public, and

opportunist. Still, naming 67 congressmen—risking libel suits or worse, like the 2011 murder of Palawan broadcaster Gerry Ortega over infrastructure kickback exposés—suggests guts over guile. The Puppet Strings: Loans, Power, and Ambition Why block Magalong?

Geopolitics and survival. The ₱12 billion Chinese-funded Kaliwa Dam risks diplomatic fallout if kickbacks are exposed. Domestically, 67 congressmen are a political landmine, threatening Marcos’ agenda. RPMCs, with 12 auditors per region and no subpoena power, ensure a trickle of findings, buying time. But this betrays a nation on the edge.

Moody’s flags “governance risks,” spooking investors. The ₱1.3 trillion flood-control debt, if wasted, will chain generations, while climate change turns floods into cataclysms, mocking UN

that can be a helpful kickoff. In the meanwhile, we heard Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, a retired police deputy director general, offering his services to spearhead a national investigation, following allegations that 67 of 317 congressmen used front contractors to pillage public funds.

But Press Undersecretary Claire Castro said there was no need to appoint a lead investigator, since the President has set up a reporting mechanism for the probe on all questionable flood control projects, and suggested instead that Magalong could submit his report, including names of legislators who may be involved in corruption. We are as concerned as those who heard the President’s fighting policyspeak during his SONA and want to see how the government will jump in with both feet in addressing this nauseated culture of greed and corruption. The clock is ticking, with a tinderbox beside it.

We believe the President will be faithful to his words that contractors behind anomalous flood control projects will be blacklisted and face charges. We hold the faith he will go beyond the sound bite and address promptly the higher concerns of majority of his countrymen.

SDG 13 goals. Breaking the Dam: A Call to Arms The tragedy isn’t corruption—it’s its normalization. Three bold moves could break the cycle:

1. Publish Magalong’s evidence raw— names, contracts, bank trails—for Filipinos to judge.

2. Appoint him special prosecutor under the Ombudsman, with subpoena power.

3. Launch a #FloodScam campaign, crowdsourcing evidence via smartphones to map ghost projects. If corruption festers, expect economic collapse, climate disasters swallowing cities, and a radicalized generation. The Santos family’s loss is a warning—more will perish unless the system is cleansed.

When institutions falter, sunlight is the ultimate disinfectant. Marcos must choose: empower Magalong or let corruption’s floodwaters engulf the nation.

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in horizontal format of the upper portion of a round table. At the table is a Filipino child on a plate, looking distressed. Seated at the center is the figure of death in a black shroud, holding hands with a giant mosquito to death’s left. The mosquito, labeled ‘Dengue,’ is sinister-looking as it gazes down on the frightened child. At death’s right is a crossed-eyed, drooling, court jester with an open mouth. He has two buck teeth sticking out. The jester is wearing an Elizabethan collar labeled ‘Vaccine Hesitation.’ The cartoon is a highly contrasted woodcut with watercolors.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Zelenskyy says Russia must end war

Myanmar junta sets Dec. 28 poll date despite war

YANGON – Myanmar’s junta said Monday that long-promised elections will start on December 28, despite a raging civil war that has put much of the country out of its control, and international monitors slating the poll as a charade.

Myanmar has been consumed by conflict since the military deposed the government of democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021, making unsubstantiated allegations of electoral fraud.

Swathes of the country are beyond military control -- administered by a myriad of pro-democracy guerrillas and powerful ethnic armed organizations which have pledged to block polls in their enclaves.

“The first phase of the multi-party democratic general election for each parliament will begin on Sunday 28 December 2025,” Myanmar’s Union Election Commission said in a statement.

“Dates for the subsequent phases will be announced later,” the statement added.

Myanmar’s civil war has killed thousands, left more than half the nation in poverty, and more than 3.5 million people living displaced.

The junta has touted elections as a way to end the conflict and offered cash rewards to opposition fighters willing to lay down their arms ahead of the vote.

IN BRIEF

‘Skibidi’ and ‘tradwife’ added to dictionary

LONDON – Words popularized by Gen Z and Gen Alpha including “skibidi”, “delulu”, and “tradwife” are among 6,000 new entries to the online edition of the Cambridge Dictionary over the last year, its publisher said Monday. Cambridge University Press said tradwife, a portmanteau of traditional wife, reflected “a growing, controversial Instagram and TikTok trend that embraces traditional gender roles”.

The dictionary also took on the challenge of defining skibidi, a word popularized in online memes, as a term which had “different meanings such as cool or bad, or can be used with no real meaning”.

The gibberish word was spread by a YouTube channel called “Skibidi Toilet” and is associated with the mindless, “brain rot” content found on social media and consumed by Gen Alpha’s overwhelmingly digital lifestyle.

The dictionary defined delulu, derived from the word delusional, as “believing things that are not real or true, usually because you choose to”. AFP

Death toll in Russian blast rises to 20

MOSCOW – The death toll from a blast at a gunpowder plant near Moscow rose to 20, with more than 100 wounded, the authorities said on Monday, as a probe began into possible industrial safety violations.

Eleven people were initially reported dead after Friday’s explosion at the Elastik gunpowder and ammunition factory in Ryazan, about 200 kilometers southeast of Moscow, independent media said.

“Twenty people have died as a result of the accident,” the local administration said on Monday, adding that there were “134 injured, of whom 31 were hospitalised”.

The authorities did not officially name the plant, despite announcing Monday as a day of mourning in the region.

According to the 112 Telegram channel, which has deep sourcing in law enforcement, the blast was allegedly triggered by a rogue shell detonation.

The factory had received multiple warnings from authorities on labour safety previously, it added. AFP

HK court hears closing arguments in Lai’s trial

HONG KONG – Hong Kong prosecutors on Monday began closing arguments in the trial of pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai, saying the septuagenarian was fit to attend hearings after an adjournment last week to equip him with a heart monitor.

The 77-year-old founder of the nowshuttered Apple Daily newspaper has pleaded not guilty to two counts of foreign collusion, with authorities accusing him of using various platforms to lobby Western nations to sanction China and Hong Kong. The charges are brought under the city’s national security law, which Beijing imposed after the finance hub saw huge and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests in 2019.

The trial was scheduled to begin its final stages last Thursday but was postponed twice: first due to bad weather and then to address Lai’s medical needs. AFP

China slams Germany for ‘hyping’ reg’l tensions

BEIJING – China lashed out at Germany on Monday, warning Berlin against “inciting confrontation and hyping up tensions” after its foreign minister said Beijing was “increasingly aggressive” in the Asia-Pacific region.

During a visit to Japan, Johann Wadephul said China had made repeated threats to “unilaterally change the status quo and shift borders in its favor,” citing its behavior in the Taiwan Strait and the East and South China Seas.

“Any escalation in this sensitive hub of international trade would have serious consequences for global security and the world economy,” Wadephul said Monday after talks with Japanese coun-

terpart Takeshi Iwaya.

A statement issued on Sunday before Wadephul’s visit to Japan -- and later Indonesia -- said that China was “increasingly asserting its regional supremacy and, in doing so, is also questioning principles of international law.”

“China’s increasingly aggressive behavior in the Taiwan Strait and the East and South China Seas also has implications for us in Europe: fundamental principles of our global coexistence are at stake here,” the statement quoted Wadephul as saying.

China’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning hit back on Monday, telling a regular news conference that

the situation in the East China Sea and the South China Sea “remains generally stable”.

“We urge the relevant parties to respect regional countries, resolve issues through dialogue and consultation, and safeguard the common interest of peace and stability, instead of inciting confrontation and hyping up tensions,” she said when asked about Wadephul’s comments.

“The Taiwan question is China’s internal affair,” she added.

In the joint press statement in Tokyo, Wadephul also criticized “China’s support for the Russian war machine” in Ukraine. AFP

Mass rally in Tel Aviv calls for end to Gaza war, release of hostages

TEL AVIV – Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered on Sunday evening in Tel Aviv to call for an end to the war in Gaza and the release of hostages, one of the largest demonstrations in Israel since the start of the fighting in Oct. 2023. The rally was the culmination of a day of nationwide protests and a general strike to pressure the government to halt the military campaign.

“Bring them all home! Stop the war!” shouted the vast crowd which had converged on the so-called “Hostage Square” in Tel Aviv plaza -- a focal point for protesters throughout the war.

The Hostage and Missing Families Forum, the initiator of the day of protest, estimated that about 500,000 people joined the evening demonstration in Tel Aviv -- a figure not confirmed by the police.

“We demand a comprehensive and achievable agreement and an end to the war. We demand what is rightfully ours -- our children,” said Einav Zangauker,

mother of hostage Matan and a leading figure of the protest movement.

“The Israeli government has transformed a just war into a pointless war,” she told the crowd.

National media published a video message by Matan Zangauker on Sunday, in which the hostage, weak and emaciated, addressed his family and told them he missed them. The video was filmed by Hamas and found in Gaza by the army, the family said.

“This is probably the last minute we have to save the hostages,” demonstrator Ofir Penso, 50, told AFP.

The protests come more than a week after Israel’s security cabinet approved plans to capture Gaza City, 22 months into a war that has created a dire humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian territory.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum

WASHINGTON, DC – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said it was up to Russia to end its invasion, ahead of high-stakes talks on Monday (Tuesday Manila time) with US counterpart Donald Trump, who is pressuring Ukraine to give up Crimea and abandon its NATO ambitions.

The comments came hours before Zelenskyy and European leaders were scheduled to meet Trump in Washington, a follow-up to a summit between Trump and Putin in Alaska on Friday that failed to produce a ceasefire.

Trump, who dropped his insistence on a ceasefire in favor of a final peace deal after meeting Putin, said late Sunday that Zelenskyy could end the three-and-ahalf-year war “almost immediately, if he wants to.”

“Remember how it started. No getting back Obama given Crimea (12 years ago, without a shot being fired!), and NO GOING INTO NATO BY UKRAINE. Some things never change!!!,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Announcing that he had landed in Washington, Zelenskyy wrote later: “Russia must end this war, which it itself started.”

“Ukrainians are fighting for their land, their independence,” he said, adding that he hoped “that our joint strength with America, with our European friends, will force Russia into a real peace.” Zelenskyy has said he is Constitutionally bound not to give away any Ukrainian territory.

Trump and Zelenskyy are expected to meet one-on-one before being joined by the leaders of Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Finland, as well as NATO chief Mark Rutte and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, according to the White House.

Ahead of Monday’s meeting, China called for “all parties” to agree to peace “as soon as possible.” AFP

Donald Trump on Monday (Tuesday Manila time), as they try to find a way to end Russia’s offensive. Along with von der Leyen, NATO chief Mark Rutte and the leaders of Britain, Finland, France, Germany and Italy will be present. It will be the first time Zelenskyy visits Washington since a bust-up with Trump and Vice President JD Vance in February.

Chua stuns Van Boening, wins Battle of Bull in US

By Randy M. Caluag

FILIPINO pool star Johann “Bad Koi” Chua delivered a timely and resounding triumph after outclassing American legend Shane Van Boening, 13-8, to win the 3rd Annual Battle of the Bull in Roanoke, Virginia, on Sunday night. (Manila time).

Chua, currently ranked No. 4 in the world, showcased brilliance throughout the championship match, dazzling the crowd with flawless executions, including spectacular jump shots and kick shots.

The victory netted him the $20,000 top prize and, more importantly, a major confidence boost as he gears up for the presti-

gious 2025 U.S. Open Pool Championship in Atlantic City, New Jersey, this week. “It’s a win that came at the perfect time,” Chua said after his unbeaten run through the 128man field.

The 31-year-old Filipino ace was in peak form, posting notable victories over several top-caliber opponents. He dominated Vietnam’s

Duoc Quong Hoang, 11-5, in the semifinals and ousted Poland’s Wiktor Zielinski, 9-6, in the quarterfinals. Earlier, he dispatched Austria’s Max Lechner, 9-5, in the Round of 16, and Sweden’s Walter Laikre, 9-5, in the Round of 32.

Chua’s journey began with impressive wins in the preliminary rounds, defeating Payne McBride of the USA (9-7), Finland’s Jani Siekkinen (9-3), and Vietnam’s Trung Le Quang (9-7) to secure his place in the knockout stage. The triumph also helped Chua bounce back from a disappointing finish at the World Pool Championship, proving he remains one of the sport’s most dangerous competitors.

Jr

PH Golf Tour Luzon culminates at John Hay

BAGUIO City—The final leg of the seven-stage

ICTSI Junior PGT Luzon Series gets underway today (Tuesday, Aug. 19) at the John Hay Golf Club here, promising dramatic showdowns and emotional finishes with the last few slots to the Elite Junior Finals hanging in the balance.

With only the top four players in each division advancing to the season finale set for Oct. 7-10 at The Country Club in Laguna, the race is wide open in several categories, with players closely bunched in points – setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion on this short but perilous mountain-top layout.

In the girls’ 7-10 division, watch out for Ronee Dungca, who’s staged a remarkable late-season charge. After missing the first four legs, she posted back-to-back victories at Riviera and Pradera Verde to tie Penelope Sy at fifth with 30 points. Another win could complete a stunning comeback and clinch her a finals berth.

Meanwhile, Mavis Espedido (45) and Winter Serapio (37) have booked their tickets in the girls’ youngest category, but several others remain in contention for final rankings that could influence team selection.

In the boys’ 7-10 group, Zach Guico and Zoji Edoc are neck-and-neck at 45 points apiece, with Asher Abad (34) and Halo Pangilinan (34) looking to fend off Kingston Ching (20), who needs a win and some luck to squeeze in.

In the boys’ 11-14 category of the series organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., Ryuji Suzuki (42) and Vito Sarines (39) have all but secured their berths, four golfers are in a dogfight for the final two places: Jacob Casuga (35), Race Manhit (34),

IN the pantheon of Philippine MMA legends, few names carry the weight and reverence of Eduard “Landslide” Folayang. The former two-time ONE Lightweight MMA World Champion blazed the trail for Filipino fighters on the global stage, overcoming impossible odds to capture gold and inspire a generation. Now, the Baguio native watches with immense pride as his Lions Nation MMA teammate and reigning ONE strawweight MMA world champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio stands on the precipice of making history.

At ONE 173: Superbon vs Noiri on November 16 in Tokyo, Japan, Pacio will challenge reigning fly-

Zianbeau Edoc (30) and Ryuichi Tao (26).

The girls’ 11-14 bracket sees the dominant Sarines twins, Mona and Lisa, already secured of spots with 45 points each. But the final two slots are being hotly contested by Kendra Garingalao (32), Alexie Gabi (26), and a duo tied at 22 – Eliana Dumalaog and Marqaela Dy.

In the girls’ 15-18, Rafa Anciano (45) and Levonne Talion (39) are safely through, but Chloe Rada (32), Tiffany Bernardino (30) and Angelica Bañez (20) are locked in a heated race for the last two spots. With no room for error, expect strategic play and emotional resilience to come into play.

In the boys’ premier division, Jose Carlos Taruc (30) is eyeing a spot in the finals as he looks to climb from the No. 5 position. His chances have significantly improved with current fourth-ranked player Kristoffer Nadales (32) withdrawing from the competition due to prior commitments, effectively conceding his bid for the final qualifying slot.

The top three spots are all but secured by Patrick Tambalque (45), Shinichi Suzuki (39), and Zachary Villaroman (37).

The par-69 John Hay course offers more than just breathtaking views. It’s a thinking player’s course – tight, rolling fairways, tricky doglegs, undulating greens, and elevation changes require pinpoint accuracy, smart course management, and nerves of steel.

The short layout may seem forgiving at first glance, but any lapse in concentration can quickly lead to double bogeys or worse.

Folayang backs Pacio’s bid

weight champion Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu for the chance to become the Philippines’ first-ever two-division MMA world champion. For Folayang, who knows the burden of carrying an entire nation’s hopes, Pacio’s quest represents something profound. The seven-time strawweight champion has already unified his division’s gold, but now he seeks to etch his name in the record books alongside the sport’s most elite competitors.

“I’m really proud and excited for Joshua. Seeing him in this position is inspiring, not just for me but for every Filipino fighter.

We’ve walked this journey together for many years, and I know how much hard work and sacrifice he’s put in. To have the chance to make history for the Philippines is something special, and I’m confident he will make our country proud,” Folayang explained.

The magnitude of Pacio’s opportunity cannot be understated. Moving up from strawweight to challenge the flyweight king in enemy territory requires not just physical

preparation, but mental fortitude.

Yet Folayang has witnessed Pacio’s evolution firsthand. From their shared roots in Team Lakay to their current partnership at Lions Nation MMA, the veteran has seen the younger fighter’s relentless pursuit of excellence.

Pacio’s comeback from a partially torn ACL to knock out Jarred “The Monkey God” Brooks in February demonstrated the championship heart that Folayang knows so well.

Now, with the torch being passed, the former lightweight king sees qualities in his teammate that remind him of his own championship runs. Folayang added:

“Joshua has always been a student of the game. He’s disciplined, humble, and willing to push himself beyond his limits. His fight IQ is very high, and he knows how to adapt inside the circle.

“But more than that, his heart is unmatched. He fights not just for himself, but for the people who believe in him, for the Philippines, and ultimately for the glory of God. That’s what makes him dangerous and capable of achieving something this big.”

Johann ‘Bad Koi’ Chua raises his trophy. Matchroom Pool

Eduard Folayang (left) with Joshua Pacio

TUESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2025 extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

Gov’t raises P507b from retail treasury bonds to fund budget

By Thony Rose Lesaca

THE

Bureau of the Treasury (BTr)

said Monday it has raised P507.16 billion from its latest retail treasury bond sale.

The sale of the five-year retail treasury bonds (RTB 31), which has a gross coupon rate of 6-percent per

IN BRIEF

ERC to lower retail power competition threshold

THE Energy Regulatory Commission

annum, ran from Aug. 5 to 15, 2025. It said of the total, P425.51 billion was raised from new money, including P210 billion from an auction on Aug. 5. The remaining P81.65 billion came from a bond exchange program.

The proceeds from the RTB 31 issuance will be used to support the government’s budgetary requirements for various projects and programs in sectors such as education, health, infrastructure and agriculture, the BTr said. It said this was the first retail bond

issuance to be made available through the widely-used digital wallet platform GCash, via the GBonds function.

The bonds could be purchased for as low as P5,000 through various channels, including bank branches and mobile apps.

The BTr also conducted regional roadshows and online financial literacy sessions to broaden participation and raise public awareness of the issuance.

The bonds will be issued on Aug.

lead issue managers. Joint issue managers included BDO Capital & Investment Corp., BPI Capital Corp., China Bank Capital Corp., First Metro Investment Corp., PNB Capital and Investment Corp. and Security Bank Capital Investment Corp.

says

are Finance Secretary Ralph Recto (left) and Economy, Planning and Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan.

Aviation workers ask Supreme Court to halt NAIA fee hikes

By Darwin G. Amojelar

A COALITION of labor groups and aviation workers asked the Supreme Court and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to halt a new administrative order that revises airport fees and charges and stop the privatization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

The group, called PUSO ng NAIA

(Pagkakaisa ng mga Users, Stakeholders at Obrero ng NAIA), said it would hold a protest Tuesday.

It asked the Supreme Court on Aug. 12 to declare the Manila International Airport Authority’s (MIAA) revised administrative order as “unconstitutional.”

CostPlus to introduce hydrogen fuel technology

COSTPLUS Inc., a leading Filipino technology company, is looking at introducing advanced hydrogen fuel cell technology into the Philippine market after signing a letter of intent with Indian investors, the company said on Monday. The letter of intent was signed during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s state visit to India. CostPlus chief executive Anand Mahtani joined Marcos and other business leaders at a CEO Roundtable on Aug. 6 in New Delhi, where he highlighted the company’s renewable energy vision and the importance of Philippines-India collaboration. The company said the collaboration with Indian businessmen will provide the Philippines with state-of-the-art energy solutions to meet its growing demand for clean, renewable energy.

“This partnership marks an exciting opportunity to accelerate the Philippines’ transition to green energy while creating local jobs and contributing to a more sustainable future for our country,” Mahtani said in a statement. Alena Mae S. Flores

DIGITAL TOURISM.

Department of Tourism (DOT)

Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco meets with Visa Philippines officials led by country manager Jeffrey Navarro on Aug. 14, 2025 at the DOT Central Office to explore potential areas of collaboration in support of the Marcos administration’s tourism agenda on digitalization, connectivity and inclusive growth. The meeting covered possible initiatives on digital payments enablement, capacity building for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and data-driven tourism insights—all aimed at enhancing the end-to-end travel experience and expanding opportunities for local communities engaged in tourism.

By Othel V. Campos

Petitioners said the government had failed to conduct genuine public hearings, created a category of “non-regulated fees” with no safeguards and unlawfully delegated quasi-legislative powers to a private concessionaire.

“This petition is not about stopping modernization,” said Romy Sauler, head secretariat of PUSO ng NAIA and a former vice president of the PAL Employees Union (PALEA).

“It is about stopping the DOTr and MIAA from railroading illegal fee hikes and giving away the power to set charges to private entities—a blatant violation of law and due process,” he said.

Sauler said the impact of the hikes

PSE index falls below 6,300 level; peso breaches 56-a-dollar mark

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE stocks closed lower Monday, falling below the 6,300 level as investors engaged in profit-taking amid a lack of fresh catalysts.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell 27.05 points, or 0.43 percent, to close at 6,288.88. The broader all-shares index also lost 10.12 points, or 0.27 percent, to settle at 3,741.11. Meanwhile, the peso strengthened to 56.956 against the US dollar, from 57.065 on Friday.

Despite positive factors such as stable world crude prices and the prospect of a rate cut from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the market

was down, according to Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort.

“BSP Governor Remolona reiterated dovish signals on possible monetary easing... amid benign inflation and external uncertainties that could slow down local economic growth,” Ricafort said.

Analysts said investors may also be waiting for more positive news before making investment decisions.

Sectoral indices were mixed, with the mining and oil sector rising 3.4 percent, while financials were at the bottom, declining 1.46 percent.

Decliners outnumbered gainers 105 to 85.

would ripple through the economy.

“Behind every peso of increased charges is a family saving for a ticket home, a worker traveling for livelihood, a student flying for opportunity,” he said.

“These are not abstract numbers— they are people’s lives,” said Sauler.

Filed on Aug. 12, the petition for prohibition with a request for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction names Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, DOTr Secretary Vivencio Dizon, MIAA general manager Eric Jose Ines, the MIAA Revision of Fees and Charges Committee and New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) president and chief executive Ramon Ang as respondents.

processing zones nationwide would need to invest a minimum of P500 million each to build modern water infrastructure. These include closed-loop systems with a centralized water supply, wastewater treatment and pre-treatment facilities to comply with the latest effluent discharge and water reuse guidelines.

“These are not optional features anymore. Every ecozone developer must ensure that their sites have the capability to recycle, treat and safely dispose of wastewater,” said Panga. He said that if a zone does not have a centralized system, it should connect directly to the local water district.

The investments will also create opportunities for engineering, construction and utility providers, said Panga.

“The water systems are capitalintensive, but they guarantee long-term sustainability. They also give investors confidence that operations will meet global environmental standards, which is now a deciding factor for many multinationals,” said Panga.

CIRCLE OF LIFE. The Million Trees Foundation (MTF) inaugurates the ‘Million Trees Circle of Life’ at the La Mesa Watershed, symbolizing a landmark partnership between the Philippines and Denmark for environmental sustainability. The project, supported by a 30,000-euro three-year grant from the Poul Due Jensen Foundation, Grundfos Philippines and volunteer group 9150Cares, involves the funding of the Circle of Life for the planting, nurturing and maintenance of a thousand native trees in La Mesa. Leading the ceremony are Josephine De La Cerna, IS director and country director of Grundfos Philippines; Virgilio Bate, IS director, IS&O; Bobby Fraga, IS manager, Grundfos; 9150 Cares representatives; Reynaldo Velasco (left), founder of the MWSS’ Annual Million Trees Challenge (AMTC) and MTFi chairman emeritus; and Melandrew Velasco (right), MTFI president and executive director.

MANAGEABLE INFLATION. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli Remolona Jr. (center)

the inflation outlook remains manageable this year during the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines ‘Economic Forum 2025’ at the BSP head office in Manila on Aug. 11, 2025. With Remolona

AUTOMATED COUNTING MACHINE (ACM) OPERATION PROCEDURES FOR FINAL TESTING AND SEALING (FTS), ELECTION DAY AND TRANSMISSION OF ELECTION RESULTS IN CONNECTION WITH THE 13 OCTOBER 2025 BANGSAMORO PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

Plastic leakage in Asia may rise 70% in 25 years

ANKARA, Turkey—Plastic waste leakage to the environment in Southeast Asian countries, plus China, Japan and South Korea, could increase by nearly 70 percent if effective measures are not taken, warned a report by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

“Driven by rising incomes and living standards, plastics use in the region is projected to almost double in the absence of more ambitious policies,” the Regional Plastics Outlook report said, comparing the figures to 2022 levels.

The member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are “expected to see a near tripling,” it added.

Plastic waste is projected to more than double, while plastic leakage to the environment is seen to increase by 68 percent, primarily originating from ASEAN lower-middle-income countries and China, the report also said.

Describing the region as a “hotspot for plastic pollution,” it noted that 8.4 million tons of mismanaged plastic waste leaked into the environment in 2022.

Regional plastic waste rose from 10 million tons in 1990 to 113 million tons in 2022, the report also noted.

“Informal and unsafe practices, such as open burning and dumping, persist in most ASEAN countries and China, especially in rural areas,” it added.

Plastic waste is a major environmental issue, polluting rivers and oceans and posing health risks to wildlife and humans as microplastics also enter the body.

The report projects that annual leakage into the environment in the region could hit 14.1 million tons in 2050, of which 5.1 million tons could reach rivers, coastal areas and oceans.

The countries in the region differ widely in waste management capabilities, with plastic use in 13 countries surging almost ninefold from 17 million tons in 1990 to 152 million tons in 2022.

As over half of the plastic used in the region has a lifespan of less than five years, much of it quickly becomes waste.

Plastic use in the region may drop by 28 percent through ambitious actions, including bans on single-use plastics and taxes, which could also raise the recycling rate to 54 percent, and reduce mismanaged waste by 97 percent, the report also noted.

Anadolu/PNA

Climate change experts drafting policies to reduce cost of disasters

SEVERAL stakeholders gathered last week to draw up strategies aimed at reducing the impact of climate change on the economy and the marginalized sectors of the Philippines.

Representatives from 25 national agencies convened for a two-day workshop at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria in Quezon City that seeks to strengthen national capacity in modeling the economic impacts of climate change and inform just transition measures.

“The long-term nature of climate impacts demands long-term thinking

(third from left) and Paete Mayor Ronald Cosico shake hands after meeting in Paete, Laguna on July 31, 2025. CCC photo

and it demands models that will help us craft resilience strategies that look beyond short-term pressures and safeguard future outcomes,” said Ellen Anthony, Second Secretary of Climate, United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

“The UK is committed in partnership with the Philippines to mitigate the

impacts of climate change. We know that the cost of inaction outweighs cost of investments,” she said.

The workshop’s relevance followed recent events, as the country faced significant disruptions from typhoons and the southwest monsoon just a week prior.

Edwine Carrie, Deputy Resident Representative of United Nations Development Program Philippines, reflected on the human cost of disasters.

“When the country loses one billion per year because of typhoons, it affects the most underserved segments of the population, not only in loss of

Cacao farming, once long a driver of reforestation, can be sustainable

By Owen Cammayo

First of 3 parts

RENÉ Etoua Meto’o runs a small cacao plantation just outside of Cameroon’s Dja Faunal Reserve, one of the world’s largest intact stretches of rainforest.

Here, elephants, chimpanzees and dozens of other animals share space with the cacao trees of the Baka Indigenous People, who have lived in the dense forests of the Congo Basin for generations.

But many in this area have long been forced to scrape together a living on the margins of the reserve. That began to change in 2021, though, under a project led by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).

Agricultural extension workers showed Meto’o and his neighbors how to boost their yields without

clearing land, critical to preserving the rainforest— and wildlife—that surrounds their farms.

“My family is now getting a premium price for our cocoa, which allows us to survive and invest,” says Meto’o, a 26-year-old father of three.

The training was part of a larger conservation effort led by UNEP. Its goal: to protect the fastdisappearing rainforests and peatlands of eight Congo Basin countries by improving the lives of people who call the region home. Financed by the Global Environment Facility, the push is designed to preserve one of the world’s most biodiverse places, a thicket of trees and peatlands home to more than 11,000 species of animals and plants, according to the World Wildlife Fund.(To be continued) UNEP News

The soft skills that sustain our migrant workers

IN SUSTAINABILITY circles, we often talk about the three P’s: People, Planet, Prosperity. But when we look at the experience of Filipino migrant workers, it’s clear that one of those P’s— People—needs more attention, particularly in how we prepare them for the emotional and relational challenges of working overseas.

The world knows Filipinos as hardworking, compassionate and resilient, especially in caregiving and domestic work. But in the quiet spaces of a foreign home, where employers and employees share not just rooms but roles, it’s the soft skills like communication, confidence and adaptability that often determine whether a worker thrives or merely survives.

Too often, the lack of these skills leads to misunderstandings, silent suffering, or worse. A worker may not know how to respectfully decline unreasonable requests, articulate his/her needs, or navigate cultural nuances. And so, even if he/

she’s technically excellent, his/her well-being and sometimes his/her employment is at risk.

This is where the mission of some social enterprises like Fair Training Center (FTC) comes in. By focusing on soft skills development before deployment, they help migrant workers build the mindset, emotional readiness and interpersonal tools to engage constructively with employers, advocate for themselves, and sustain their wellbeing.

FTC reports that 93 percent of its graduates are still employed after the first three months, and around 84 percent go on to finish their full two-year contracts. These are significant outcomes in a sector where early contract termination is all too common. Behind those numbers are lives made more stable, families more secure and journeys more sustainable.

In doing so, FTC together with other like-minded organizations are addressing not just a labor issue, but a sustainability imperative.

When we equip our workers to be confident and self-aware, we’re not only protecting People. We’re

enabling Prosperity because empowered workers are more likely to finish contracts, save, invest and lift their families out of poverty. And while it may not be obvious, this kind of personal resilience is essential to a more sustainable migration system, one where workers are treated not just as labor to be managed, but as human capital to be nurtured and individuals with aspirations and the capacity to drive change.

If we truly believe in the power of the Filipino to contribute to a better world, we must prepare them not just with skills of the hand, but of the heart and mind. Because sustainability isn’t just about recycling or reducing emissions, it’s also about ensuring that every person, wherever they work, has the tools to live and work with dignity. And that starts with how we train and enable them, not just for the job, but for life.

The author is a social and sustainable development advocate and the Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications for SM Investments Corp.

life but also loss of livelihoods. My personal hope is that this model will help improve decision-making to ensure that communities at the local level are better equipped to deal with the economic impact of disasters,” he said.

The workshop activity is a key initiative of the Climate Finance (CFN) project implemented by the (UNDP) in the Philippines in partnership with the Department of Finance (DoF), with financial support from the UK FCDO through the Climate Action for a Resilient Asia (CARA) program.

UNDP Philippines News

CCC praises Paete LGU for climate action

PAETE, Laguna—The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has strengthened its carbon offsetting program, the Net Zero Challenge (NZC), with the help of the local government unit (LGU) of Paete, Laguna and state-owned National Power Corp. (NPC).

CCC vice chairperson and executive director Robert Borje expressed appreciation to Paete Mayor Ronald Cosico and the local government for their sustained partnership over the past three years during their meeting on July 31.

Borje stressed the importance of working closely with LGUs and government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) in driving community-level climate action.

NPC owns and manages CalirayaLumot Watershed, the site of NZC.

“Local governments are at the frontline of climate action.

Strengthening our partnerships with LGUs like Paete and with government corporations like NPC helps ensure that national climate policies translate into real, community-driven solutions on the ground,” Borje said.

“The Net Zero Challenge is proof that cross-sector collaboration can deliver impact and inspire action,” he added.

Cosico conveyed the LGU’s ongoing support for the NZC, saying the partnership has enhanced Paete’s local climate initiatives.

He also raised community challenges, particularly those caused by typhoons and other extreme weather events, and discussed the LGU’s plan to update its Local Climate Change Action Plan (LCCAP).

In response, Borje assured the LGU of the CCC’s continued technical assistance in the updating of the LCCAP as he reiterated the CCC’s commitment to expanding capacitybuilding efforts and technical collaboration to help scale the progress of the NZC in the region. These efforts are aligned with the government’s commitment to pursue climate resilience and sustainable development at all levels, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. consistently highlighting the critical role of local governments in achieving national climate goals. CCC News

Climate Change Commission vice chairperson and executive director Robert Borje

The expansion of farming and mining – among other things – has led to widespread deforestation in the Congo Basin. UNEP/Will Swanson

An artwork by Canadian artist, activist, and photographer Benjamin Von Wong entitled ‘The Thinker’s Burden’ a 6-meter-tall sculptural remix of Rodin’s iconic Thinker, which is being created for the Plastics Treaty Negotiations is seen in front of the United Nations Offices in Geneva on August 13, 2025. Negotiators from 184 countries remained divided on how to curb plastic pollution, less than 36 hours before they were slated to deliver a binding global treaty. AFP

TUESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Shticks Joseph Peter Gonzales

TWO of GMA’s most bankable stars are finally teaming up, and it’s bound to excite fans who have been waiting for this kind of pairing. Jillian Ward and David Licauco are set to headline the upcoming action-drama Never Say Die , a big leap from their recent projects and a chance to showcase something new.

Jillian, fresh from the success of My Ilonggo Girl and her memorable stint in Mga Batang Riles , is stepping into uncharted territory. “This genre is something new for me since it’s action,” she admitted. “People will see a different me. My character here is a far cry from the usual ones I portrayed in my past programs.”

She has already begun training, learning everything from proper gun handling to the footwork required in fight sequences. “It’s fun! I’m glad I was cast in this project,” she said with excitement.

David, meanwhile, is no stranger to physical preparation. After his well-received run in Pulang Araw , the so-called Pambansang Ginoo quickly went into training for his new role. “Production wanted me to learn Arnis,” he shared. “I also hit the gym regularly and went back to boxing. Physically, I’m really preparing a great deal to be credible in the character I portray.”

The series won’t be short on star power either, with Angelu de Leon, Richard Yap, Raymart Santiago, Ayen Munji-Laurel, Wendell Ramos, Analyn Barro, Raheel Bhyria, and Korean actress Kim Ji Soo rounding out the cast. “I promise that it’s going to be a great offering, so I hope viewers will support us,” David added.

* * *

MEANWHILE , another Kapuso name made headlines during the recent GMA Gala, not for a project, but for a candid moment on the red carpet. Jak Roberto revealed that he had a brief but friendly exchange with Jameson Blake , who attended the event with Barbie Forteza Jak didn’t hesitate to approach him. “It wasn’t our first time to meet and talk. Back in February, our paths crossed in It’s Showtime when we were both tapped to judge their Sexy Babe segment. So, there’s no uneasiness whatsoever,” he said.

On Barbie and Jameson’s closeness, Jak was surprisingly supportive. “I think they make a good pair. They complement each other. And I think it’s about time,” he remarked.

He even admitted that their short chat touched on something deeper. “I told him that Barbie is a kind and wonderful person. He just has to take good care of her,” Jak shared, showing both sincerity and maturity.

WSHOWBIZ

HEN we talk about P-pop, the conversation almost always circles back to groups like SB19, BINI, BGYO, G22, or Alamat. Soloists hardly enter the picture. For newcomer Zela, that absence is the very space she wants to change.

She wasn’t just speaking for herself but for other P-pop soloists who continue to work hard for recognition in a scene dominated by big groups.

“We’re also part of P-pop, and many soloists deserve to be known,” she said.

Born in the Philippines and raised in Las Vegas, Zela has always had music around her.

“It has always been in my life. I come from a family of singers. They are not famous, but they enjoy singing,” she said, recalling how songwriting became second nature long before her official debut.

Her journey hasn’t been easy. She admitted to being bullied as a child, something that pushed her to turn to writing music. Over time, that creative outlet became her strength, fueling songs that draw from multiple genres and often carry themes of empowerment and feminism.

In 2023, she released her first single “Karma,” which earned her the Philippine Pop Top New Artist of the Year award. A follow-up single, “Pogi Boy,” came the following year. By her birthday on Jan. 1, she gifted her fans, whom she fondly calls Zelors, with “01/01.”

Now, with Lockhart officially out, Zela finds herself at a new chapter. The 10-track album, which includes songs like “Arangkada,” “Paraiso,” and “Leave Me,” mixes English and Tagalog, a conscious effort she said was encouraged by her management. “As someone who grew up abroad, I’m definitely trying to enhance my Tagalog vocabulary,” she said.

Very Wang Nickie Wang

Zela hopes soloists

Meanwhile, comparisons to Sandara Park often come her way, and Zela embraces them with humility.

“I get it a lot. I take it as a compliment. Who doesn’t like to be compared to her? But we have our own beauty, talent na sa amin lang,” she said with a smile.

Much like Sandara, Zela may also soon find herself on a Korean stage. RS Francisco of AQ Prime Music and Frontrow International revealed plans to meet with Korean investors to map out her international career. The announcement caught Zela off guard, but she welcomed it. “I really wanted to go global ever since I started in this industry, and now it’s starting to happen. The album used to be just one of my dreams, and now it’s here.”

Despite her ambitions abroad, Zela also dreams of working with local acts. She mentioned SB19, BINI, and Sarah Geronimo as artists she would love to collaborate with someday.

For now, she continues to carve her own place in P-pop as a soloist. And if her determination is any indication, Zela may well become the face of a new wave in the genre.

By Angelica Villanueva

BRITISH actor Terence Stamp, best known for playing the villain General Zod in Superman II and for his lead role in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, has died at the age of 87.

On Sunday, Aug. 17, according to UK media reports, his family confirmed the news.

“He leaves behind an extraordinary body of work, both as an actor and as a writer, that will continue to touch and inspire people for years to come,” the statement read.

Stamp became famous in the 1960s and was seen as one of the style icons of that era. He first gained attention for his role in “Billy Budd” in 1962, a performance that earned him an Oscar nomination at just 24 years old.

Throughout his career, he worked with top directors such as Federico Fellini, Pier Paolo Pasolini, Ken Loach, and Steven Soderbergh

He was known for taking on bold and unusual roles, including playing a cold-hearted villain in Superman II and later, a retired transgender woman in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. The latter role earned him international praise for his moving performance and nominations for both a Golden Globe and a BAFTA.

Aside from film and

and

David Licauco (left) and Jillian Ward are set to star in the upcoming action-drama series ‘Never Say Die’

P-pop singer Zela advocates for greater recognition of P-pop soloists in a scene dominated by groups

By Angelica Villanueva

ACTRESS and fashion icon

Heart Evangelista-Escudero is embracing what she calls her “soft power era” as she turned 40 this year, looking back on her journey in show business.

During the launch of mobile wallet brand GCash’s newest innovation, the “Tap to Pay” feature, Heart sat down with host Boy Abunda to talk about finding peace, healing from the past, and redefining her style on her own terms.

“This year, I am living my truth and entering my soft power era. I know when to say no. I really went through a war path. I allowed them to chop me up and sell pieces of me just to make people happy. But now I am not going to waste my energy. I have channeled my energy towards building my future, towards being productive,” Heart said.

Marking her 27th year in the entertainment industry, the actress admitted that her younger self often sought validation from others. Today, she said she values mutual respect and reserves her energy for what truly matters.

“I’ve given myself away so many times because I wanted people to like me. But once you reach your 40s, that softness comes with an innate poise that really comes with experiences,” she told Tito Boy.

Heart also described her new outlook as less about speaking loudly and more about carrying quiet strength.

“It’s not soft girl, like I have no backbone, or I’m too sweet. No, it’s totally different. At 40, I am finally free,” Heart continued.

Known globally for her Fashion Week appearances, Heart said fashion remains a powerful tool for self-expression. For her, it is not about chasing trends but about wearing what feels authentic.

“It’s not just about trendy aesthetics or simply dressing well. When I think of fashion, it is all about what feels good for me, creating something unique that builds on and aligns with my personal style,” she said.

Celebrity stylist Pam Quiñones, who joined the event for a live styling segment inspired by Heart’s looks, emphasized practical choices when it comes to clothing.

“If you’re buying something you can only wear once, think twice. You should commit to giving it the longest possible life,” the stylist said.

The conversation also turned to more sensitive topics when Heart addressed the long-rumored feud with Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach-Jauncey, saying she has no issue with her fellow fashion personality.

“I never had a problem with Pia. In fact, I was one of those who cheered for her in the past,” she clarified, explaining that misunderstandings came from people around them.

“There are some things where I feel, ‘Okay naman tayo, wala namang ganun.’

But again, you have to go on with your life,” Heart added.

While she prefers not to dwell on public speculation, the fashion icon admitted that even painful experiences shaped her growth.

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

BUZZY horror film Weapons won the North American box office for a second week running with $25 million in ticket sales, industry estimates showed Sunday.

The Warner Bros. movie starring Julia Garner (Ozark) and Josh Brolin (Avengers: Infinity War) tells the story of the mysterious disappearance of a group of children from the same school class. Holding in second place was Disney’s Freakier Friday starring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2003 body-swapping family film, at $14.5 million, Exhibitor Relations said.

Debuting in third place was Universal action sequel Nobody 2, starring Bob Odenkirk of Better Call Saul fame, at

Heart Evangelista finds freedom in her ‘soft power era’

“Sometimes you have to get your heart ripped out because things need to permanently change. You have to get to the next chapter of your life,” she shared. “I work hard for what I have. And at this point in my life, I’m keeping my energy—and my voice—exactly where they matter most.”

For GCash, Heart is the perfect example to represent both elegance and empowerment as the company introduces its latest payment innovation.

The new Tap to Pay service allows customers to make transactions with a simple tap on Mastercardenabled terminals in the Philippines and abroad, through

$9.3 million.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Disney’s reboot of the Marvel Comics franchise, dropped to fourth place at $8.8 million.

Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Emmy winner Ebon Moss-Bachrach star as the titular team of superheroes, who must save a retrofuturistic 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 fifth, earning $7.5 million.

Rounding out the top 10 were Superman with $5.3 million, The Naked Gun with $4.8 million, Jurassic World: Rebirth with $2.9 million, F1: The Movie with $2.7 million, and Coolie with $2.4 million. AFP

By Chong Ardivilla

IT IS canonical in Hollywood romantic comedies that Tom Cruise rushes home to Renee Zellweger in Jerry Maguire, proclaiming his love with “you complete me.” This implies that before meeting her, he was incomplete.

That is the thing with Hollywood romantic movies: people are seen as fractions in search of their better half. Well, the movie Together (2025, directed by Michael Shanks) takes that to a hilt. Yet this prospect of “becoming one” is challenged in horror films that constantly threaten the wholeness of the body.

A subgenre that is gaining traction after last year’s The Substance, which catapulted Demi Moore into Oscar nomination greatness, is body horror. This is when the human body is pushed beyond its limits. This film makes the Spice Girls’ hit “2 Become 1” literal.

A young urbanite couple, played by Dave Franco and Alison Brie, decide to leave New York City for something upstate and upscale for a fraction of the NYC rent. If anything, the underlying horror in this film is the fear of millennial coupling. This film serves as an analogy for the fear of commitment and the idea of “losing yourself.” Indeed, losing oneself in a relationship is the basic ingredient of a marriage, when one must “grow up,” give up specific dreams, and take up a less-thanideal occupation.

Franco’s character is a musician who has had some childhood trauma that left him with a lingering, heightened sense of suspicion and smell. The young rapscallion heavily influences Franco’s filmography. Still, in this movie, he is truly holding on to fading youth and dreams of becoming a successful rock musician despite trundling into his late thirties. The panic flashes on his face at the discomfort and uncertainty of being in the forest upstate. Brie is the formidable actor in this pair, given that she has acted next to Meryl Streep (The Post, directed by Steven Spielberg demonstrated quite the range in comedy as well (Community and Glow). Brie, a schoolteacher in this film, sprints between giddy sunshine and her role as the horrified partner in a tenuous partnership that has shown its cracks in the forest. Within that forest lies a site that changes everything, and “connection” becomes the very

crux of horror. The scenes of body horror are a magnificent ballet of pliant limbs and creaking bones. The sinew of the skin is the sieve of the drum of such palpitations that anticipate torn flesh. The scene in the hallway alone will be studied in film classes on body and horror. That scene is worth the price of the ticket. All in all, this movie shows the true horror of a relationship: the prospect of codependency when one literally cannot live without the other. What if that is forced upon you? Are you willing to lose yourself? No monster is greater than the needy partner. You may reach Chong Ardivilla at kartunistatonto@gmail.com or chonggo.bsky. ) and has quite

social

Seasoned television host Boy Abunda fires hot-seat questions to Heart Evangelista during the event

Sprinkle your home with design in new Home Month showcase

By Angelica Vilanueva

RUSTAN’S is celebrating Home Month this August with the launch of its Home Art Series, featuring a unique collection of limitededition, exclusive items from collaborations between renowned luxury brands and acclaimed artists.

In an intimate event on Aug. 6, Rustan’s introduced the series, which blends fine art and refined living, inviting collectors and design enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a thoughtfully curated collection that elevates home décor and artistic appreciation.

This year’s Home Art Series highlights collaborations that fuse contemporary culture with timeless elegance, showcasing the mastery of artisans who push the boundaries of design

and craftsmanship. Rare and limited in number, these pieces offer a fresh lens through which to explore personal design philosophies, framed by the luxurious ambiance that only Rustan’s can offer.

Among the highlights is Lladró’s Art Editions by Javier Calleja. The Spanish artist brings his distinctive whimsical style to a limited-edition porcelain trio titled You Choose One

The set features three evocative characters— Child, Devil Cat, and Angel Cat—each crafted with meticulous hand-finishing and a specially developed color palette. Limited to 150 units, the pieces balance innocence and playful mischief, making them coveted collector’s items.

Adding a contemporary edge is Bernardaud’s collaboration with Jeff Koons. The Ballerinas Coupe Service Plate, inspired by Koons’ Ballerinas sculpture from his Antiquity Series, features a mirrored finish and soft color gradations, radiating optimism and beauty.

Also part of the collection is the Elephant, a porcelain piece recalling one of Koons’ earliest inflatable motifs, celebrated for its sculptural innovation and nostalgic charm. Both pieces exemplify the fusion of heritage craftsmanship and modern artistic relevance.

LIGO Sardines stands out not only in taste but also in nutrition, as every can delivers essential health benefits for consumers.

Ligo is packed with Omega-3, which helps support a healthy heart. It also contains Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect and nourish the skin. These health-boosting nutrients give customers more reasons to make Ligo a part of their daily meals.

Ligo has recently picked actor and commercial model Joshua Garcia as its brand ambassador. Despite his hectic schedule, Joshua doesn’t let it get in the way of maintaining a

For Joshua, Ligo Sardines

French silversmith Christofle Paris partnered with Japanese lacquer master Junichi Hakose for a reinterpretation of Christofle’s iconic MOOD collection.

Using traditional urushi and makie lacquer techniques, the collaboration produced seven limited-edition works adorned with intricate gold powder, mother-of-pearl accents, and ethereal linework. The pieces honor both Japanism and contemporary artistry, presenting symbols of elegance and cultural reverence.

To mark the 125th anniversary of surrealist René Magritte, Lalique transformed his iconic imagery into crystal masterpieces.

The collection features six numbered pieces crafted using the lost-wax technique, combining transparency and form in Lalique’s distinctive style. Le Bain de Cristal stands out, depicting a giraffe inside a large crystal goblet—a surrealist and technical achievement that captures the imagination.

Daum’s Citrus Collection rounds out the lineup with the Magnum Lemon Vase, created over 670 hours in Andalusian groves to capture nature’s beauty. The delicate Camélia Vase and the bold Magnum Horse sculpture complement the series, showcasing Daum’s century-long expertise in pâte de verre glass artistry.

“The lemon collection, the idea inspiration is from the south of Spain. There, they have their varieties of lemon. So our company would like to introduce the lemon to different areas and apply it to different markets as well,” Daum’s head of sales and marketing for Asia Pacific Cecilia Lam told Manila Standard Life.

BACOLOD City will host the fifth Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival from Aug. 28 to 31, coinciding with the global observance of Rum Month. The festival, launched in 2019 through a partnership between Tanduay Distillers Inc. and the city government, has become one of Bacolod’s biggest cultural events. It highlights the city’s sugarcane and rum-making heritage, which has long supported the local economy and shaped its identity.

“This is not just Bacolod’s pride, it’s the pride of the entire nation,” Mayor Greg Gasataya said. “Our rum heritage connects us to our past, strengthens our identity, and positions the Philippines on the global stage.”

“In this collection, there is a special design where you can see the large base and a smaller base. The siphon size is a slice of lemon, and at the back is another design. You can appreciate it in 360 degrees, and under room light and sunlight, the colors look very different,” she added.

siphon

This year’s theme, “Ilabas ang Natatagong Galing,” will showcase the skills and creativity of Bacolod residents through music, dance, culinary arts, and mixology. The program also includes rum tastings and educational activities that highlight the craft’s role in the country’s growing cocktail culture. Festival activities from Aug. 28 to 30 include street parades, dance competitions, food and rum pairings, and concerts featuring artists Amiel Sol, Robledo Timido, Zack Tabudlo, and Mayonnaise, along with Tanduay ambassadors Derek Ramsay and Julia Barretto. A food park will remain open until Aug. 31.

The event draws thousands of visitors each year and provides a boost to hotels, restaurants, and local businesses, according to the city government.

Luxurious beachfront condotel in Batangas earns green recognition

THE Spinnaker, a beachfront condotel developed by Landco Pacific Corp. in Club Laiya, San Juan, has received a preliminary EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification from the Philippine Green Building Initiative as it pursues further recognition for sustainable development.

The 22-story property, designed with energy- and water-saving systems, posted reductions of 30 percent in energy, 37 percent in water, and 50 percent in embodied energy of materials. It is also in the process of seeking LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, the global standard for sustainable buildings developed by the U.S. Green Building Council.

The Spinnaker is the first condotel in the country to utilize a double-piped waterline system, which enables the reuse of non-potable water for toilets and irrigation. It also incorporates solarreflective exteriors, rainwater harvesting, and recycled materials sourced locally. Features include smart-home readiness, inverter-grade appliances, and electric vehicle charging stations.

The project recently won Best International Sustainable Residential Development at the 2024–2025 International Property Awards, after being named the Asia-Pacific regional winner. Landco has implemented similar measures across its portfolio. The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego was named Best Sustainable Development in Asia-Pacific for 2025–2026, while its Crusoe Cabins at Calatagan South Beach became the first resort project in the country to secure EDGE certification in 2022.

Set within the LEED-registered estate of Club Laiya, The Spinnaker has 247 units ranging from studios to three-bedroom layouts, along with commercial spaces. Amenities include an infinity pool, gym and spa, meeting rooms, a sky bar, and a helipad. The condotel is two and a half hours from Metro Manila and is part of Landco’s larger push to combine eco-efficiency with leisure developments, alongside community livelihood and coastal conservation programs.

Beachfront condotel The Spinnaker receives preliminary EDGE certification for sustainable development

The Spinnaker condotel utilizes a double-piped waterline system, solar-reflective exteriors, rainwater harvesting, and recycled materials

Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya highlights Bacolod’s rum heritage as a source of national pride

Bernardaud teams up with Jeff Koons on the Ballerinas Coupe Service Plate, inspired by Koons’ sculpture

Daum’s Citrus Collection features the Magnum Lemon Vase, Camélia Vase, and Magnum Horse sculpture, showcasing their expertise in pâte de verre glass artistry

Lladró’s Art Editions by Javier Calleja features a limited-edition porcelain trio, ‘You Choose One,’ with three characters: Child, Devil Cat, and Angel Cat

French silversmith Christofle Paris collaborates with Japanese lacquer master Junichi Hakose to reinterpret Christofle’s iconic MOOD collection

From left: Jackie Avecilla, head of marketing, Rustan Commercial Corporation; Happy Ongpauco-Tiu; and Anton Huang, president and CEO of SSI Group, Inc., Rustan Commercial Corporation, and Rustan Marketing Corporation

Bacolod City Councilor Em Ang graces the Bacolod Rum Festival press launch