Manila Standard - 2025 August 28 - Thursday

PBBM orders lifestyle checks

Anti-corruption checks to start with DPWH amid flood deals probe

By Charles Dantes and Maricel V. Cruz

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered lifestyle checks on government officials as part of a widening probe into alleged irregularities in flood control projects, Malacañang said Wednesday.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the lifestyle checks will begin with Department of Public Works and Highways officials suspected of involvement in questionable projects.

“It is undeniable that there are DPWH officials said to be involved, and most likely it will start with them,” Castro told reporters during a Palace briefing.

Torre comes out from the cold; visits De Lima

By Maricel V. Cruz, Vince Lopez

the

happened in my career. It happened time and again, and I always managed to bounce back,” Torre told reporters covering the House of Representatives after he visited Mamamayang Liberal

By Ram Superable and Maricel V. Cruz

Lacson said on Wednesday amid reports of substandard or even “ghost” flood-control projects in some parts of the country.

“There are so many irregularities involving the district engineering offices. The district engineer points to contractors and borrows their licenses, which he will

Lacson, Tulfo alarmed by Chinese espionage

By Ram Superable

SENATOR Panfilo Lacson on Wednesday warned that sleeper agents and operatives of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) have already entered the

Philippines to conduct espionage. Meanwhile, Senator Raffy Tulfo scored anew defense and military officials for allowing a Chinese telecommunications company to install a tower

By Charles Dante and Maricel Cruz

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has designated Deputy Ombudsman for the Visayas Dante Vargas as the new acting Ombudsman, Malacañang announced yesterday.

screening of candidates for the posi

tion of Ombudsman. Among the 17 applicants are former COA Chairperson Michael Aguinaldo, DILG Usec. Romeo Benitez, Atty. Jonie Caroche, CA Associate Justice Bautista

By Vito Barcelo

WORLD LAKE DAY. World Lake Day was celebrated for the first time yesterday. The UN-sponsored event aims to raise awareness of the importance of lakes and the sustainable management of lake and related ecosystems. Laguna de Bay, in photo, is the largest lake in the country. It has been a vital resource that sustains fisheries, agriculture, tourism, transportation, and clean water supply. Edd Castro

BIRTHDAY CALL. Former PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III makes his first appearance by calling on Mamamayang Liberal partylist Rep. Leila de Lima to greet her a happy birthday at the House of Representatives. FB page of Rep. Leila de Lima

No garbage crisis in Metro—MMDA

By Joel E. Zurbano

THERE is no looming garbage disposal crisis despite the closure of the Navotas Sanitary Landfill (NSLF) on Tuesday, according to Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Don Artes.

Concerns, however, have been raised over the turnaround time of garbage trucks given the longer distance between the affected cities—particularly Manila—and the new dumpsite in San Mateo, Rizal.

“As much as possible, let us not take out our garbage until the truck arrives. There might be a delay, maybe one or two hours, but it won’t go beyond a day.

That’s why I’m asking, I’m begging, if possible, please don’t take out the garbage until the truck arrives,” said Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso.

Navotas is only about 10 kilometers away from Manila, while San Mateo is roughly 30 kilometers from the capital.

Seven cities in Metro Manila—Manila, Navotas, Pasay, Parañaque, Pasig, Ma-

labon, and Valenzuela—are affected by the closure and have been directed to redirect their waste to the New San Mateo Sanitary Landfill (NSMSLF), managed and operated by the MMDA.

“As early as March 2024, we notified the affected cities about the scheduled closure of the Navotas Sanitary Landfill. There have been several discussions on this. So, this is not sudden. We do not see any looming garbage disposal crisis,” Artes said.

The 40-hectare landfill in Barangay Navotas, the first Bay Area-type engineered sanitary landfill in the Philippines, has been operational since 2006. It accommodates 3,000 tons per day of municipal solid waste from various cit-

brushed off criticism from Davao City Acting Mayor Sebastian Duterte, who called the lifestyle check directive a mere “PR stunt.”

ies in Metro Manila.

The MMDA noted that the region produces at least 9,000 tons of garbage daily, accounting for nearly 25 percent of the country’s total waste production of 40,000 tons a day. To address the worsening garbage problem, which contributes to severe flooding in Metro Manila, the agency is again considering the use of waste-to-energy incinerators.

The proposal was first introduced during the tenure of former MMDA chairman and now senator Francis Tolentino. At the time, the Metro Manila Council—the agency’s governing and policy-making body—passed a resolution supporting the adoption of wasteto-energy technology.

has filed to reinforce the fight against corruption.

“There are also feelers that there are irregularities in even the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board. The DPWH has become a playground for syndicates,” the senator added. Over the weekend, a district engineer of DPWH-Batangas was arrested after attempting to bribe neophyte lawmaker Leandro Leviste P3.1 million in exchange for stopping the House probe on anomalous flood control projects.

District engineer Abelardo Dionglay Calalo was arrested by the Taal Municipal Police Station (MPS) for alleged violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, specifically concerning the corruption of public officials.

(ML) party-list Rep. Leila de Lima on the congresswoman’s birthday.

The former police chief thanked those who have shown him support in the past few days.

“I really appreciate the gesture; I really appreciate the support and the love. But don’t worry, I’m okay,” Torre said.

Asked whether he had regrets, the former police chief replied that while everyone has “what ifs in life,” he does not consider his relief as one of them.

“I don’t think this is something I’d want to reconsider if given the chance. I’m still duty-bound to keep the peace,” Torre said.

“I’m still composing my thoughts, and I’ll be making a statement in due time... Look at me straight in the eye. Do I look like somebody who is bitter?” he added upon being asked about his reaction to his removal.

Meanwhile, Philippine National Police (PNP) officer-in-charge Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. yesterday named Public Information Office (PIO) chief Brigadier Gen. Randulf Tuaño as the official spokesperson for the organization.

Tuaño replaces Brigadier Gen. Jean Fajardo, who held the position while concurrently serving as head of the PNP Directorate for Comptrollership. Besides Tuaño, Nartatez said he will also speak to the public and the media on behalf of the organization.

Nartatez also said having Tuaño as the official spokesperson makes sense as he had all the repository of reports and he leads the PIO. Fajardo, meanwhile, remains as comptroller based on the updated list of PNP organizational structure as of August 26, 2025.

As new head of the PNP, Nartatez said he will also not shy away from reassigning key personnel, if necessary, subject to the approval of the National Police Commission (Napolcom), which he acknowledged as the “watchdog” of the organization.

He said he will comply with the Napolcom resolution overturning some of the reassignments made by his predecessor, Gen. Nicolas Torre III, whose controversial reshuffle order led to his removal from office.

She said the lifestyle checks could be initiated by agencies such as the Ombudsman, the Bureau of Internal Revenue, or the DPWH itself.

The President’s directive came after he personally inspected 11 flood-control projects in Marikina, Iloilo, Bulacan, and Benguet following complaints filed through the government’s “Sumbong sa Pangulo” platform.

As of Wednesday, Castro said the platform has received 9,020 reports related to flood-control projects.

Castro said the President has vowed to pursue accountability regardless of political ties.

“Cases will really be filed against those who must be charged. No exceptions. No allies, no one close to him (will be spared). Anyone involved will face cases,” she said.

When asked whether lawmakers could also be implicated, Castro said the probe will not spare anyone.

“Definitely. The President said he will not stop until this is finished before his term ends,” she said.

“We urge citizens to participate and report anomalous flood control projects directly to the President,” Castro added.

The Palace official likewise

In an interview in The Netherlands, Duterte said the probe was intended to improve the administration’s image.

“If he says it is a PR stunt, then let him just watch,” Castro said.

As this developed, Senate President Francis Escudero expressed full support for the President’s directive, citing clear constitutional and legal bases for the move.

Escudero said Article XI, Section 1 of the 1987 Constitution mandates public officials to remain accountable to the people, serve with integrity, and lead modest lives.

He also referred to Section 8 of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, which allows dismissal of public officials for unexplained wealth, and Section 4(h) of Republic Act 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, which prohibits extravagant displays of wealth.

“These provisions affirm that public office is a public trust. Public servants must at all times be accountable and modest in their way of life,” Escudero said in a Viber message to reporters.

He also urged the administration to also consider legislative proposals he

These include Senate Bill No. 232, which would require government officials and employees to execute a waiver allowing the examination of their bank deposits and investments, thereby relaxing the Bank Secrecy Law; and Senate Bill No. 783, which seeks to disqualify relatives of public officials within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity and affinity from entering into government contracts.

At the House of Representatives, the Makabayan Bloc said Palace should take lead in the lifestyle check on government officials if it was serious in implementing the policy.

“We view President Marcos’ order for lifestyle checks on government officials amid the flood control corruption scandal as a desperate attempt to deflect attention from his own administration’s systemic corruption and lack of transparency,” the bloc’s members, Reps. Renee Co of Kabataan party-list and Antonio Tinio of ACT Teachers party-list, said in a joint statement.

“While we support genuine anticorruption efforts, we demand that President Marcos lead by example and subject himself to the same scrutiny he demands from others,” the two lawmakers said.

Despite concerns raised over the involvement of some DPWH officials in botched flood-control infrastructure deals, Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan continues to enjoy the trust and confidence of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Mr. Marcos has not mentioned any plans to act against Bonoan amid these issues. “If there will be any action regarding Secretary Bonoan, let us just wait. But as of the moment, the trust is still there,” Castro said.

For his part, Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Teddy Ridon, co-chair of the House Infrastructure Committee, said it was unfair to blame Congress for the alleged anomalous and “ghost” floodcontrol projects in Bulacan.

Ridon said similar to the ghost project in Baliuag, Bulacan, the other two projects inspected by President Marcos in the said province had been proposed by the executive to the Congress, as indicated in the National Expenditure Program (NEP) for 2022 and 2023.

Citing documents, Ridon said the P96.4-million Rehabilitation of River Protection Structure along Bulusan in Calumpit, Bulacan implemented by the DPWH First District Engineering Office and St. Timothy Construction Corp. was in the 2022 NEP and the 2022 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

On the other hand, the P77.19million Construction of Flood Mitigation Structures along Barangay Frances also in Calumpit, Bulacan implemented by the DPWH First District Engineering Office and Wawao Builders was in the 2023 NEP and the 2023 GAA, Ridon said.

Office of the President Deputy Executive Secretary Lisa Logan, retired SC Associate Justice Mario Lopez, PDP Laban Secretary General Atty. Melvin Matibag, Sandiganbayan Justice Michael Musngi, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, PCSO Chairperson Felix Reyes, RTC Judge Jayson Rodenas, and retired RTC Judge Benjamin Turgano. Before Vargas, retired Court of Appeals presiding justice Mariflor Punzalan-Castillo was named acting Ombudsman on July 28, taking over the post vacated by Samuel Martires, who retired on July 27.

As Deputy Ombudsman for the Visayas, Vargas supervised factfinding investigations and case monitoring in the region.

As acting Ombudsman, he will oversee the investigation and prosecution of cases involving public officials and employees, including those related to graft, corruption, and other forms of misconduct in government.

inside Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

“The whole network of espionage operations must be dismantled or at least significantly weakened because agents come and go. You arrest one, and another will take their place. And based on reliable information, there are many sleeper agents here, even regular members of the PLA,” Lacson noted.

“It’s widespread,” he added.

Lacson said the situation requires government security agencies to carry out sustained pursuit operations against those arrested in earlier anti-espionage raids.

The senator lamented that the country still relies on Commonwealth Act 616, a decades-old law that governs espionage cases, while foreign intelligence operations remain active.

He said Chinese nationals were previously apprehended for alleged spying in several sensitive areas, including Palawan, Makati, Dumaguete, Camp Aguinaldo, the Commission on Elections headquarters in Manila, and near Malacañang.

“Pursuit operations must continue without let-up. If we rest on our laurels, we become complacent and relaxed, but that should not be the case. Instead, we must intensify our efforts and remain more vigilant in carrying out intelligence and law enforcement operations,” he stressed.

During the Senate defense committee hearing, National Bureau of Investigation official Ferdinand Lavin reported that at least six operations have resulted in the arrest of 19 suspected spies.

Thirteen of those arrested were Chinese, five were Filipinos, and one was Cambodian, according to Lavin.

He said the Filipinos served as guides, drivers, or aides and were used as tools by the foreign agents.

The senator questioned why such a project was permitted right inside the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) headquarters despite long-standing concerns about foreign espionage.

“Was this not vetted? Why was it allowed? I’ve been asking this over and over, but nobody can give me the correct answer,” he said.

Tulfo alleged that the facility could give foreign entities an opportunity to intercept sensitive signals and monitor military activities within the camp.

He warned that allowing the tower to operate in a strategic military site exposes the Philippines to potential surveillance threats.

The senator recalled that he had repeatedly asked both the Department of National Defense (DND) and the AFP about the project in previous hearings.

According to Tulfo, neither agency has provided a concrete answer to explain why the tower was allowed inside a high-security military installation.

During the Senate hearing, defense officials admitted they had no direct

Castro also said Mr. Marcos will participate in the UNGA late next month, though specifics of his program and objectives will be disclosed by the DFA at a later date.

knowledge of the specifics of the tower’s construction.

DND representatives told lawmakers they would need more time to gather information from the offices directly involved in the project.

Tulfo criticized the repeated deferrals, saying the military and defense department have long promised detailed explanations but failed to deliver them.

“So in our next hearing next year, I’ll ask the same question again, and then you or anyone from the military or DND will just say, ‘I’ll get back to you.’ Is that always the answer?” the lawmaker remarked.

He expressed frustration that despite raising the issue several times over the past years, the agencies continued to respond with vague assurances.

The senator insisted that the matter should not be taken lightly, given the ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea and the importance of national security.

He then suggested that if there was no compelling reason for the tower to remain inside Camp Aguinaldo, authorities should consider removing it.

DND officials vowed to submit a comprehensive report to the Senate before the end of the week.

Tulfo gave assurance that he will continue pressing the matter until the public receives a clear explanation.

“If we are serious about defending the country, then projects like this should never be allowed inside our biggest military camp,” he pointed out.

stage for the Philippines to advance its diplomatic and economic agenda.

Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon, chairman of CBCP’s Episcopal Commission on Youth, said the CBCP has recognized the importance of addressing this pastoral gap, saying the call aims to foster the dissemination of inspiring teachings and to strengthen the faith in God among the Filipino people. The ideal ratio of priests to parishioners is 1 to 2,000, according to the CBCP which declared November 2024 as the first-ever National Vocation Awareness Month.

By reaching out to the youth, the CBCP hopes to cultivate a new generation of spiritual leaders “who can guide their communities and promote a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith.”

Pope Leo XIV, said during an audience with French altar servers in Rome on Aug. 25, the feast day of St. Louis IX, king of France, that the shortage of priests is “a great misfortune” for the Catholic Church. He encouraged the faithful to “persevere faithfully” in their service at the altar. In a statement, the CBCP supports and promotes vocations to the priesthood and religious life, highlighting a significant need for more clergy to serve the large Catholic population amidst a widespread shortage of priests in the Philippines and Asia.

yesterday that Marcos will be in Phnom Penh from Sept. 7 to 9 for a state visit.

The trip underscores the Philippines’ effort to deepen ties with Cambodia, a fellow member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Both countries have been working on cooperation in agriculture, trade, and defense, while also navigating regional security issues in the South China Sea.

The annual gathering will give the President a chance to present the Philippines’ position on global concerns such as climate change, food security, migration, and peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

The two trips highlight the administration’s continuing push to strengthen international partnerships, with Cambodia seen as a key regional ally in ASEAN and the UN providing a global

As this developed, at least 17 lawmakers appealed to the President to put forward a resolution in the upcoming UNGA meeting urging China to stop its repeated “hostile acts” against the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

House Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal party-list Leila de Lima and Rep. Gerville Luistro of Batangas, chair of the House committee on justice, led the filing of House Resolution 192, citing the Philippine

victory in the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague that said that China’s claims in the South China Sea have “no legal basis.”

”Although not legally binding, the UNGA Resolutions carry significant political weight and serve as expressions of the will and consensus of the international community, with the potential to shape international norms, influence national policies, and provide guidance for the work of other UN organs, specialized agencies, and regional organizations,” it added.

Leviste tags predecessor in alleged DPWH kickbacks

By Maricel V. Cruz and Charles Dantes

BATANGAS

Rep.

Leandro Legarda

Leviste said arrested district engineer Abelardo Calalo told him that former Rep. Eric Buhain was the one who chose contractors for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) projects in the first district of the province.

Leviste made the statement in a television interview when asked if his predecessor was “on the take.”

Leviste replied, “Yes,” in reference to Calalo’s response to him, citing “kickbacks” in government projects.

“Actually, he (Calalo) said… in almost sweeping terms, all of the projects have,” Leviste added when asked if Calalo really confirmed that such practice existed in the past administration in Batangas’ second district.

Leviste further confirmed that it was indeed his predecessor who chose the contractors.

“What he explained to me was that the DPWH’s job is to publish the bids, and then in the case of that particular congressman, contractors arrive, maybe buy the bidding documents, they bid, and somehow there is a certain contractor that wins. And you can see from the list of projects that a few contractors have cornered the lion’s share of projects in that district,” he added. Leviste said in the interview that Calalo repeatedly confirmed the practice of “kickbacks” of about 10 to 20 percent from contractors chosen for government flood control projects.

“There’s 10 to 20 percent,” the lawmaker said. “I think that the district engineer doesn’t know exactly how much a congressman gets during transactions because they go directly to the contractor. What he said is that the contractors give the SOP to the congressman so the district engineer does not know.”

BI begins deportation against mining entrepreneur

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has initiated deportation proceedings against Joseph Sy, a mining entrepreneur and the chairperson of Global Ferronickel Holdings, Inc., for falsely claiming to be a Filipino citizen.

Sy, who was arrested on August 21 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) upon his arrival from Hong Kong, is currently detained at the Immigration Detention Facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City.

The businessman’s Chinese name was Chen Zhong Zhen, and he has been living in the Philippines since 1991, according to BI records.

Immigration spokesperson Dana Sandoval said the bureau is actively investigating other individuals who may have played a role in helping him secure his citizenship.

“We are looking at big people already. We’re looking at people of influence already. Because our concern is more of national security... If there were people involved in protecting him or assisting him, that will come out in later investigation,” she said.

The BI has also confirmed that several influential people are seeking his release from custody, including the businessman’s firm, which claims that Sy holds a legitimate Philippine passport.

The Philippine Nickel Industry Association called the arrest unjust and unfair, as Sy had already proven his Filipino citizenship in a prior immigration case.

“This charge is without lawful basis. Mr. Sy is a Filipino citizen, as affirmed in multiple rulings by government agencies and institutions,” said Global Ferronickel Holdings, Inc.

But the BI said the businessman’s case is different this time around. Sandoval explained that Sy was previously investigated for misrepresentation sometime in 2014 or 2015, and that case was dismissed due to lack of evidence.

“Now, it’s different because government intelligence sources have given us a name. And this Chinese name was cross-matched with our records and that’s where the biometric information of the Chinese individual and this Filipino individual came out,” according to Sandoval.

16k cops deployed for BARMM polls

By Vince Lopez

SOME 16,000 personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) are set to be deployed to maintain peace and order during the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) on October 13, newly installed acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said on Wednesday.

“I was there supervising the operation and giving direction to the operations of the BARMM. Of course, BARMM parliamentary elections will push through on Oct. 13. About 16,000 additional forces will be added to the current strength of the PNP, including other law enforcement units. If there is a need for additional force, we will

add upon our recommendation to the Comelec,” Nartatez told reporters in a press briefing at Camp Crame. Nartatez said they are exerting all efforts to prevent poll-related violence.

He said the units, particularly the Police Regional Office (PRO) BAR led by Brig. Gen. Jaysen De Guzman, have already studied and taken into account threat groups.

“After the election that’s what we will do—guns, goons and gold. We have studied in the past how many and who committed violence in that area and in what area,” said Nartatez.

In accordance with a resolution issued by the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the gun ban in the region started on August 14 and will last until October 28, or the election period for the BARMM polls.

IN BRIEF

Family confirms Grade 7 boy hit by debris dies

A GRADE 7 student who was hit by falling debris from a high-rise condominium on Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City has passed away weeks after undergoing surgery on his head.

The father of 12-year-old Carl Jayden Baldonado confirmed his death in a Facebook post, saying his son had given them a good fight and was granted a second chance by God to say goodbye.

“Good night to our beloved Kuya CJ (Carl Jayden Baldonado). We will miss you so much. I love you,” his grandmother, Rhina Baldonado, also wrote in a separate post.

On August 12, Carl Jayden was among three boys standing in front of a convenience store when a piece of cement plaster from the Atherton building suddenly fell on them. Rio N. Araja

PTFoMS, CHR team up for media safety plan

THE Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) have partnered to strengthen the safety and security of media workers across the country.

PTFoMS Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr. and CHR chairperson Richard Palpal-Latoc agreed to share databases on threats, attacks, and investigations, establish a hotline, conduct threat assessments, and provide temporary protection to swiftly address imminent dangers. The agreement also includes measures to expedite investigations, strengthen witness protection, and address online harassment against journalists, most of whom are women, Torres noted. Rio N. Araja

DOST partners with IT firms for smart communities

CEBU CITY – The Department of Science and Technology in Region 7 (DOST-7) is expanding collaborations with technology groups and nongovernment organizations to support smart, sustainable communities and startups in Central Visayas.

DOST-7 officer-in-charge Regional Director Dr. Tristan Abando said the partnerships aim to deliver science, technology, and innovation solutions to local needs, while developing a startup ecosystem across Cebu and the region.

On August 27, DOST-7 and Mata Technologies Inc. discussed collaboration under the Smart and Sustainable Communities Program, including immersive technologies for disaster preparedness, interactive learning tools, and smart tourism applications. On the same day, DOST-7 and the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. also reinforced their cooperation on sustainable and disaster-resilient communities.Minerva Newman

DOJ says 401 bones recovered in Taal Lake

By Maricel V. Cruz

A DEPARTMENT of Justice

(DOJ) official revealed before a House of Representatives panel that at least 401 human skeletal remains from Taal Lake in Batangas have been recovered by authorities as part of the ongoing search for the missing sabungeros (cockfighting aficionados).

DOJ Assistant Secretary Eliseo Cruz told legislators at the House Committee on Human Rights that the recovery operations were conducted on July 10, 2025 following the revelation of Julie Patindongan on the alleged dumping sites of the victims.

The DOJ conducted the retrieval together with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

“The disappearance of the missing sabungeros shall never be put in vain, for they are fathers, sons, brothers, and friends whose absence has left enduring pain,” Cruz said, assuring families that the DOJ is committed to pursuing “truth, accountability, and justice” despite attempts to derail the investigation.

SAKURA. Cherry blossoms are in full bloom at Sakura Park in Paoay, Atok, Benguet, after a decade of acclimatization.

Video creator Pj Haight shares his footage of the spectacle. The colorful blooms last only about two weeks each year. Dave Leprozo

HIGALAAY PARADE. The 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division showcases its capabilities and operational readiness during the Higalaay Festival’s Civic Military Parade and Float Competition in Cagayan de Oro City.

PEACE HEARING. Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada presides with fellow senators over the first public hearing of the Committee on National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification, and Reconciliation in the 20th Congress.

Corruption triggers reshuffle of NAIA police department

IN BRIEF

Solon hits NEP’s lack of allocation for CHR

AKBAYAN party-list Rep. Chel Diokno

has raised concerns over the absence of funding under the National Expenditure Program (NEP) for the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) as mandated by special human rights laws including the Anti-Torture Law and the Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Law.

Diokno pressed the alarm button after CHR chairman Richard Palpal-latoc revealed during the Committee on Appropriations briefing on Tuesday that while several special laws grant additional mandates to the CHR, there are no corresponding budget allocations for their implementation under the proposed 2026 NEP, except for about ₱2 million earmarked for gender programs under the Magna Carta of Women.

“In other words, for the implementation, for example...(of) the anti-torture law and the anti-enforced disappearance, there’s nothing in the NEP,” Diokno told Palpal-latoc.

“It’s good that we learned that because hopefully we can do something about it,” added Diokno, himself a veteran human rights lawyer. Maricel V. Cruz

New IACC head steers weather deliberations

NEWLY-APPOINTED Inter-Agency

Coordinating Cell (IACC) administrator

Harold Cabreros hit the ground running as he presided at a meeting at the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday, Aug. 26. The discussions focused on assessing the combined impact of the southwest monsoon or ‘habagat,’ a low pressure, and emerging tropical cyclone-like vortexes currently affecting weather conditions across the country.

Joining Cabreros were key OCD officials, including Deputy Administrators Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV, Cesar Idio, and Henry Robinson Jr., as well as representatives from partner agencies, notably Undersecretary Diana Rose Cajipe of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Rex Espiritu

PMA gets new naval audio-visual facility

THE Philippine Military Academy (PMA) opened on Aug. 23 a new audio-visual facility at its Melchor Hall with Philippine Navy chief Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta as guest of honor.

Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said the new facility forms part of the academy’s ongoing modernization of its Navy laboratory into a state-of-the-art training center. Earlier this year, the Navy laboratory also saw the opening of the Combat Information Center and Briefing Room, along with a Navigation Bridge Simulator. Equipped with advanced multimedia systems, the improvement was designed to strengthen cadet instruction in

By Joel E. Zurbano

AMAJOR reorganization took effect at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), impacting 400 members of the Airport Police Department (APD) amid accusations of extortion activities.

The revamp sought to enhance operational efficiency and restore public trust in the airport’s security measures.

Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) general manager Eric Ines said the reshuffle was a move to align top-level management with the agency’s long-term vision and evolving priorities.

“This move ensures stronger governance and delivers more effective public service,” Ines said.

60/40 extortion scheme involving taxi drivers. This scheme, reportedly initiated by some corrupt airport police officers, requires taxi drivers to pay a commission, thereby prompting them to overcharge passengers to recover their lost incomes.

By Nash B. Maulana

THE Bangsamoro Parliament has institutionalized the Salamat Excellence Award for Leadership (SEAL) in honor of the late Sheikh Salamat Hashim, the founding chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Parliamentarian Naguib Sinarimbo said Parliament Bill 355 has been passed into a regional law by the Bangsamoro Transitional Authority (BTA). Sinarimbo said the SEAL program institutionalizes an award system for exemplary leadership among local government executives, pre-assessed for attainable leadership standards of moral governance in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

BTA Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, who heads the Bangsamoro Parliament as well as its Executive line agencies, enacted the BARMM SEAL Act last night, according to his staff, subsequently confirmed by Sinarimbo. Sinarimbo said the SEAL Act is the highest leadership award, incentive, honor and recognition-based program for all LCEs in the BARMM, and is a continuing commitment for LCEs to continually progress and improve their leadership. The awardee must demonstrate the capacity to embody the principle of accountable leadership by strictly adhering to law, thoughtfully considering the ethical and moral dimensions of decisionmaking and of being willing to accept the consequences of those decisions and actions.”

The awarding system now legislated is conceived of ideal standards of leadership, including those set by the late MILF founder in his book.

The seal Act also provides for an innovative funding mechanism with its establishment of an Endowment Fund that is Sharia-compliant. This will make the monetary incentive sustainable. This is also the first in the autonomous region, Sinarimbo said.

Airport police Supt. Luis Cometa Jr. has been designated as the new APD chief, succeeding Supt. Levy Jose who was reassigned to his previous post. Ines said Jose’s relief stemmed from a command responsibility.

The airport management also established a Special Operations Task Force (SOTF) to investigate alleged irregularities involving rogue taxi drivers colluding with airport police officers, preying on arriving passengers, mostly overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Earlier, five APD men were ordered dismissed for involvement in the so-called

The scheme came to light after a taxi driver was arrested for allegedly overcharging a passenger by ₱1,200 for a short trip between NAIA Terminals 3 and 2. The driver revealed that the people orchestrating this racket were APD members who impose high rates on fares, taking 40 percent of the overcharged amount which is then passed on to the passengers.

Ines admitted he has been receiving numerous complaints regarding the issue of overcharging by taxi drivers at the airport, with the OFWs as the usual victims. Ines vowed that the crackdown against the erring cabbies and other illegal public transport providers at the airport is being conducted 24/7.

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) rolls out its months-long Diamond Jubilee celebrations at Marine Base Rodolfo Biazon in Morong, Bataan.

In a statement on Tuesday, the PMC said the milestone honors the unit’s enduring role as a pillar of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and guardian of national security.

The festivities began with the unveiling of the official Marine Birthday theme, a tree-planting ceremony, and the daring Marine Birthday Jump at the site designated for the future PMC headquarters.

This year’s theme, “Planting the Seeds of Legacy: Embracing Morong, Bataan as the Future Home of the Corps,” underscores the corps’ commitment to sustain-

ability and its lasting impact on the community.

PMC commandant Maj. Gen. Vicente MAP Blanco III led the launch along with his predecessors, other generals, unit commanders, Marine veterans, reservists, and civilian personnel.

Set off 75 days ahead of the Corps’ official birthday on Nov. 7 and coinciding with National Heroes Day, the ceremony highlighted both the PMC’s historic achievements and its vision for the future.

“As Marines, we are entrusted with safeguarding our land and our people,” Blanco said.

“This simple act of planting trees reflects our continuing commitment to nurture life, protect our environment, and ensure that future generations of Marines will inherit not just a strong Corps, but also a thriving home,” he added.

By Rio N. Araja

WITH closed circuit television (CCTV) all over the place, law offenders, especially traffic law violators, don’t simply get away with murder, so to speak. Hence, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) was able to flash an alarm against a car involved in a hit-and-run accident that left 74-year-old woman in Marikina City severely injured.

LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II said the registered owner of the Cherry Tiggo 5X Pro had already been issued a showcause order as part of the investigation to establish who was driving the car when the incident happened.

Based on initial investigation, a CCTV video obtained by the LTO probers showed that the hit-and-run took place along A. Bonifacio Ave. in Barangay Tañong, Marikina City.

“The incident is clearly captured on CCTV, showing the victim being thrown upon impact, thereby showing the extent of harm caused by the incident,” Mendoza said.

Instead of helping the old woman, the car driver just sped away.

The LTO was able to gather details about the car, leading to the identification of the vehicle owner.

“In view thereof, you, as the registered owner, together with the designated driver, are hereby directed to appear before the Intelligence and Investigation Division… East Avenue, Quezon City, on 01 September 2025 (Monday) at 3 p.m., and to submit a written COMMENT/EXPLANATION to show cause why you should not be administratively charged,” the order read.

SMUGGLED CIGARETTES. Agents of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service- Manila International Container Port seize smuggled cigarettes worth P650 million from China and Vietnam at a warehouse in Plaridel, Bulacan on Wednesday, Aug. 27. Danny Pata

PLANTING SEED OF LEGACY. Philippine Marine Corps commandant Maj. Gen. Vicente MAP Blanco III leads his men in

Jubilee scheduled to culminate on Nov. 7, the PMC’s 75th anniversary.

BUMPER TOBACCO HARVEST. A tobacco farmer intently attends to his freshly reaped tobacco leaves, still moist due to a mild rainshower over Balauan, La Union. Revoli Cortez

OPINION

Flavors of the month

IF YOU are a senior citizen or even a millennial approaching 60, you probably remember Magnolia ice cream’s “flavor of the month.”

I do not know if Magnolia still sells different monthly flavors which we always awaited in our youthful days. Some flavors have become standards, like “coffee crumble” and “rocky road.”

There was “rainbow pineapple,” vanilla ice cream laced with multi-colored pineapple tidbits which has now become extinct. I miss the Magnolia ice cream parlor, first in Echague when Manila was yet genteel, later New Manila in QC. Riveted towards the latest scandal, the strip-tease revelations about flood control projects that are either non-existent or exist to worsen the flooding, a small group of friends laughed when I asked over sips of San Miguel, “ano kaya ang susunod na flavor of the month?”

In January, it was the brouhaha over the magical insertions and unprogrammed appropriations in the current GAA which was momentarily stilled by the holiday season, where the president signed his imprimatur on Rizal Day after shaving a few of the bicam’s concoctions.

February started with a bang, a flavor that continued to keep the nation enthralled till July, similar to “rocky road,” which was the fourth impeachment complaint against the vice president signed within eight hours by 216 congressmen and dispatched to the Senate by personal courier, the HoR secretary general mismo. February’s flavor melded into the first two weeks of March, though overtaken by another blockbuster --- the dramatic surrender of former president Duterte unto the waiting arms of the ICC. The flavor of the ides of March, even amid the midterm election campaign, was a blockbuster.

By April, the impact of the two soldout flavors of February and March eclipsed all the other issues of the campaign, with little if any interest in what Alyansa ng Bagong Pilipinas candidates were spewing in their “hakot” rallies.

Instead, Duterte’s “durian” candidates began to excite the tastebuds of voters.

By May, the administration which under two past presidents swept the midterms was given a disappointing surprise --- 5 of the durian flavors made it, and only 3 from Alyansa’s independentminded “mantecado,” (Gen Z’s do not know what mantecado means, which is vanilla laced with egg and butter, produced by Magnolia and Arce from a Cuban recipe), a forever silent senator and a member of the new Tulfo dynasty, plus two “pinklawans” who magically made it to the first six.

The pollsters predicted a different outcome and ate crow, while the pinklawans rejoiced at their resurrection from the political graveyard, just as the durians gained strength and upset apple carts

even in the once Garcia stronghold of Cebu.

June brought us the Escudero y Conjunto’s “halo-halo” of “skillful” means to slowly kill the badly-scripted HoR articles of impeachment, postponing commencement from June 2 to June 9, then finally for days after the SONA.

The durians were giddy; the pinklawans and their civil society cheerleaders howled; the people cared little, even if optics showed 20 peso rice in a few stalls and the president hyper-active with tactical MRT rides and other “pakulo.”

What new flavor of the month shall September bring? More tales of greed and systemic corruption in the benighted land?

Then, amid torrents of rain falling from angry heavens in July, missing sabungeros stole the show.

Is there such a flavor as “manok” ice cream, even if the promo model is Gretchen Barretto?

Well, oodles of money supposedly from Pampanga may have launched the sabong flavor, but typhoons and Atong’s money eclipsed the divers mightily looking for skeletons in Taal to flavor manok ice cream.

But the end days of July came up with a new flavor akin to “sili” ice cream, more spicy than what Bicolanos have invented.

The Supreme Court declared the mélange of seven articles of impeachment by the HoR as “unfit for human consumption,” followed thereafter by a SONA where an “angry” president shouted “mahiya naman kayo” upon his audience of legislators.

August has produced a variety of flavors, all competing to become bestsellers that would stretch till the “ber” months.

And the factory is once again the “august” Senate (please follow Sen. Marcoleta’s correct pronunciation -- “u-gust” with proper accent, rather than the tepid “ow-gust”): first with the entombment of the impeachment articles until and unless the Supreme Court orders its exhumation, improbable though it may be, and Ping Lacson’s detailed expose on flood control corruption most gross that dwarfed Napoles’ scam of 2014, with the “elephant in the room” as Migs Zubiri pointed out being the “proponents/ funders” in Congress.

What new flavor of the month shall September bring? More tales of greed and systemic corruption in the benighted land?;

In-depth probe needed beyond construction contracts

THE catbird seat on lawmakers who double as contractors is well-justified but far from adequate.

While construction contracts draw intense public emotion, many legislators also benefit from other business interests that slip through the fissures of passionate public scrutiny. Not surprising to find the party-list system has helped these business interests get their political shuffle into Congress. Election watchdog Kontra Daya’s report after the May 2025 mid-term elections showed that of 54 proclaimed winners, nine were previously flagged for connections with big business.

Kontra Daya, a broad campaign of organizations and individuals — religious, artists, youth and students, lawyers, IT experts, teachers, government employees and ordinary Filipinos — commits itself to oppose election fraud and other undemocratic practices during the election period.

Kontra Daya named the nine: 1Tahanan — Second nominee is Gerard Joseph D. Aliño, President of Aliño Construction Corporation. Third nominee is Raul S. del Prado, the Visayas Area Manager for Brigada News FM. Fourth nominee is Elmer V. Catulpos,

who owns Brigada News Philippines and the husband of the sixth nominee, Yelcy Y. Catulpos; fifth nominee is Ymeir Shann Y. Catulpos, president of Brigada Pharmacy, Inc. and the son of the fourth and sixth nominees. The rest of the nominees from seventh to 10th are all involved in Brigada Mass Media Corporation.

We must expose lawmakers whose votes and committee roles intersect with their sectors — be it education, media, infrastructure, or religion

Agimat — First nominee is Bryan B. Revilla, of the Revilla political clan. Second nominee is Samantha Alexandra A. Panlilio, who served as chief operating officer for a company that owns hotels and resorts. Daughter of businessman Jose Marcel Panlilio, who owns Boulevard

EDITORIAL

Flood control fiasco

HOW bad is the brouhaha over botched flood control projects in the country?

Stinking to high heavens, it would seem, that in his 2025 State of the Nation Address, President Marcos Jr. lashed out at those responsible for wasting precious government funds on ill-conceived, halfbaked and even ghost projects.

He pointed out that despite a massive budget allocation of ₱545 billion for flood control projects from July 2022 to May 2025, many areas remain vulnerable to flooding, raising questions about project effectiveness.

He revealed that only 15 out of 2,409 accredited contractors received 18 percent (₱100 billion) of the total budget, and some firms were linked to political families and had projects across multiple regions.

The Chief Executive also disclosed that 64 percent of flood control projects lacked clear descriptions or had identical costs despite being in different locations.

In view of all this, he said he had launched a transparency website (sumbongsapangulo.ph) to allow public access and reporting. He ended his SONA with a vow to hold corrupt officials and contractors accountable: “Mahiya naman kayo”

Holdings, Inc. and Puerto Azul Land, Inc. Francis R. Alita (fifth nominee), Marcelina A. Salcedo (sixth nominee), and Manuel G. Lopez (10th nominee), are listed as having businesses but Kontra Daya found no other information on them.

Ako Bicol — First nominee Elizaldy S. Co is the Chairman and CEO of Sunwest Group Holding Company and President of Sunwest Construction and Development Corporation. Third to seventh nominees are all affiliated with the law firm Chan Robles & Associates.

Bagong Henerasyon — First nominee is Roberto Gerard L. Nazal, Jr., president of MRMJ Earth Movers Corporation, chairman of PERRC Construction and Development Corp., owner of Ysa Skin Care Corp., and founder of HealthWellnessLifestyle, Inc. Second nominee is Rodolfo E. Medina, founder and chairman of Medical Depot.

GP — First nominee is Jan Rurik G. Padiernos, director and vice-president of Pacific Union Insurance Company. Third nominee is Jose Gay G. Padiernos, member of the Board of Directors of the said company. Sixth nominee is Jan Adrian D. Padiernos, chief operat-

(“Have some shame”). A month later, to show that he meant business, the President, along with local government and DPWH officials, inspected on Aug. 24 the rock shed project at Purok Millsite Sitio Camp 6 in Barangay Camp 4, on Kennon Road, a major

The Chief Executive has vowed there would be no sacred cows in his latest crackdown against corrupt officials and private contractors involved in anomalous flood control projects of the government

thoroughfare connecting the mountain city of Baguio to the lowland town of Rosario in La Union, which has since been closed to motorists due to risks of rockfalls and landslides.

According to the President, the slope protection of the project disintegrated, causing boulders from the mountains to fall and damaging the road.

ing officer and corporate secretary of the insurance company. Two other nominees are listed as having businesses but with no other information given.

Kamalayan — First nominee Caroline L. Tanchay, chairman, president, and CEO of Oriental Peninsula Resource Group, Inc., president of Citimax Group, Inc. and Maxwell Heavy Equipment Corp., chairman of Citinickel Mines and Development Corp., and director of Moreland Realty Corp. Second and tenth nominees are listed as having businesses, but with no other information given.

Nanay — First nominee Florable Co Yatco owns the Florabel Group of Restaurants. Third nominee Christopher George P. Yatco is the husband of the first nominee. Fifth nominee Rosette Marie S. Bendicion owns SJS Sleepwear. Sixth nominee Andrew S. Bendicion is listed as a businessman and the husband of the fifth nominee.

One Coop — Second nominee Rodulfo D. Hilot, Jr. is president of Rudhil Construction & Enterprises, Inc. 10th nominee Lily Ruth T. Panugan is listed as a businesswoman. TGP — Second nominee Aaron Carlo

“Here is the problem: This P260 million project [is] useless. It’s like the government threw money into the river. Useless,” the President said.

“To correct this will cost double.

That’s my top of the head estimate, P500 million to fix this,” he added. According to the DPWH, the national government allocated P274 million from its 2022 budget for the construction of a 152-meter, two-lane rock shed along Kennon Road to serve as a protective structure to safeguard motorists from rock falls and landslides.

The contract amounting to P264 million was awarded to a company whose owner ran for congressman under the President’s Partido Federal ng Pilipinas but lost in the 2025 midterm elections.

But the Chief Executive has vowed there would be no sacred cows in his latest crackdown against corrupt officials and private contractors involved in anomalous flood control projects of the government.

As in his previous inspections of flood control projects in different parts of the country, the President warned those involved in anomalous flood control projects that they would be charged with economic sabotage, a nonbailable offense whose penalties include a life sentence.

That’s what our people expect from this administration, and that’s what President Marcos Jr. should do if he really means business.

D. Cabrera is CEO and president of Teravera Corporation. 10th nominee Danilo B. Mangahas is CEO of EuroTV Philippines. The fifth and eighth nominees are listed as businessmen without any other information given. While not all of these represent businesses that may have direct dealings with government, these party-lists have a voice in shaping policy which may indirectly benefit these businesses.

The party-list system’s vulnerability is particularly dangerous: the nominee on paper may not be the actual power behind the seat. Financial backers can orchestrate influence from the shadows. If Congress truly seeks to purge conflicts of interest, the investigation must go deeper than those with construction contracts.

We must expose lawmakers whose votes and committee roles intersect with their sectors — be it education, media, infrastructure, or religion.

This is especially true for party-lists, where the public face may conceal the real decision-makers. Selective outrage only perpetuates the very corruption it pretends to fight.

Honor Blanco Cabie

Tokyo logs record 10 days of 35°C

TOKYO – Tokyo experienced a record 10 consecutive days of temperatures 35°C or above, the weather office said Wednesday, after the country sweltered through its hottest ever June and July.

Heatwaves are becoming more intense and frequent worldwide because of human-caused climate change, scientists say, and Japan is no exception.

This “is the first time since the survey started” in 1875 that such a run has been recorded, the Japan Meteorological Agency told AFP, saying that Wednesday marked the 10th day of the heat streak.

It came after a town on the northern island of Hokkaido was deluged by a record level of rainfall on Tuesday, according to public broadcaster NHK.

Toyotomi logged more than a month’s worth of rainfall in an average August in just 12 hours, it said.

And in western Yamaguchi prefecture nearly 400 households in Hagi City were urged to evacuate, NHK added, due to a

high risk of landslides.

Japan this year had its hottest June and July since data collection began in 1898 and in August the country logged its highest temperature ever, with the mercury hitting 41.8C in the central city of Isesaki.

Japanese officials urge the public to seek shelter in air-conditioned rooms during the summer to avoid heatstroke.

The elderly in Japan — which has the world’s second-oldest population after Monaco — are particularly at risk.

Last week more than 8,400 people were hospitalized in Japan, according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, and 12 of them died.

Japan’s summer last year was the joint hottest on record, equaling 2023, and was followed by the warmest autumn since records began 126 years ago.

Experts warn Japan’s beloved cherry trees are blooming earlier due to the warmer climate -- or sometimes not fully blossoming -- because autumns and winters are not cold enough to trigger flowering.

The famous snowcap of Mount Fuji was absent for the longest recorded period last year, not appearing until early November, compared with the average of early October. The speed of temperature increases across the world is not uniform. AFP

US tariffs on Indian goods double to 50%

WASHINGTON, DC – US tariffs of 50 percent took effect Wednesday on many Indian products, doubling an existing duty as President Donald Trump sought to punish New Delhi for buying Russian oil.

Trump has raised pressure on India over the energy transactions, a key source of revenue for Moscow’s war in Ukraine, as part of a campaign to end the conflict.

The latest salvo strains US-India ties, giving New Delhi fresh incentive to improve relations with Beijing.

While Trump has slapped fresh duties on allies and competitors alike since returning to the presidency in January, this 50-percent level is among the highest that US trading partners face.

Crucially, however, exemptions remain for sectors that could be hit with separate levies -- like pharmaceuticals and computer chips.

The Trump administration has launched investigations into these and other sectors that could culminate in further duties. Smartphones are in the list of exempted products as well.

Industries that have already been singled out, such as steel, aluminum and automobiles, are similarly spared these countrywide levies.

The United States was India’s top export destination in 2024, with shipments worth $87.3 billion.

But analysts have cautioned that a 50-percent duty is akin to a trade embargo and is likely to harm smaller firms.

Exporters of textiles, seafood and jewelry were already reporting canceled US orders and losses to rivals such as Bangladesh and Vietnam, raising fears of heavy job cuts. AFP

North Korea slams South’s Lee, calls him ‘hypocrite’

Since

a key regional security ally for Washington.

IMPACT ON HEALTH. People shield themselves from the hot sun with umbrellas in Tokyo on Wednesday. Tokyo experienced a record 10 consecutive days of temperatures 35C or above, the weather office said. Japan’s summer last year was the joint hottest on record, equaling 2023, and was followed by the warmest autumn since records began 126 years ago.

Experts warn Japan’s beloved cherry trees are blooming earlier due to the warmer climate — or sometimes not fully blossoming — because autumns and winters are not cold enough to trigger flowering. AFP

EPC leaders to visit Moldova in show of force

CHRISINAU, Moldova – The leaders of France, Germany and Poland are due in Moldova on Wednesday in a show of support, a day before campaigning starts for next month’s tense parliamentary election amid claims of Russian interference in the pro-EU nation bordering Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk will meet Moldova’s President Maia Sandu to celebrate the country’s 34th independence day as she pushes for EU membership.

“This is a show of support by European leaders for Moldova as Russia ramps

up its interference activities ahead of the high-stakes elections,” the Moldovan presidency said in a statement to AFP.

Sandu and her European allies have repeatedly accused Moscow of attempts to destabilize the former Soviet republic that lies between war-torn Ukraine and EU and NATO member Romania.

A vocal critic of Russia, in particular since the start of its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Sandu has been steering Moldova through official EU accession talks that started in June 2024.

The three EU leaders will give a press statement alongside Sandu on Wednesday afternoon, before a dinner.

They will then give speeches during the official independence day celebrations held on Chisinau’s Independence Square, with a concert concluding the evening.

Macron, Merz and Tusk want to reaffirm their “support for Moldova’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity,” a French presidential adviser told journalists.

They also want to support Moldova’s “European trajectory”. “We cannot ignore the consequences of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, which directly affects Moldova,” he said. AFP

During his Monday visit to the Center for Strategic and International Studies in the American capital, Lee said Seoul and Washington’s alliance would be “upgraded to a global level” when “there is a path for denuclearization, peace and coexistence on the Korean Peninsula”. Since a failed summit with the United States in 2019, North Korea has repeatedly said it will never give up its nuclear weapons and declared itself an “irreversible” nuclear state.

Lee had “pretended that he had a will to restore the relations” with North Korea, but had revealed “his true colors as a confrontation maniac” and a “hypocrite” with his recent remarks, Pyongyang’s official Korean Central News Agency said. Lee’s mention of “’denuclearization’ is little short of a naive dream like trying to catch a cloud floating in the sky,” it added.

After meeting Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in Tokyo last week, Lee also said the two countries -- both security allies of Washington -- had “reaffirmed our shared commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula”. AFP

Feudal warlord statue beheaded in Japan

TOKYO – A statue of a powerful 16thcentury warlord and samurai outside a shopping arcade in Japan has been beheaded, a shop official and media reports said Wednesday.

The statue is of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who completed the unification of Japan in the 16th century, and is also known for his failed attempts to invade the Korean peninsula.

The association of the Endoji shopping arcade in Nagoya regards the statue as a symbolic figure of the mall, and “is considering filing a damage report with police,” a member told AFP.

There was no information about who damaged the statue for what reasons, he added.

The vandalism came after similar damages to other warlord sculptures outside the same shopping arcade in central Japan that were reportedly donated by a real estate company in 2013. AFP

Denmark unveils smiling figure of ‘Viking ‘portrait’

SYMBOLIC MESSAGE. In this file photo (from left) Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz and France’s President Emmanuel Macron talk to the press after their meeting during the European Political Community summit, in Tirana on May 16, 2025. These leaders are to visit Moldova on Wednesday in a show of support for the country against Russian attempts to destabilize it, the Elysee said. At the invitation of Moldova’s pro-European President, Macron, Merz and Tusk will travel to the country’s capital of Chisinau on the 34th anniversary of the country’s independence to ‘reaffirm their full support for Moldova’s security, sovereignty, and European path,’ it added. AFP

COPENHAGEN – Denmark’s National Museum unveiled Wednesday what it described as the first “portrait” of a Viking: a miniature 10th-century figurine depicting a man with an imperial moustache, braided beard and neatly-groomed hairstyle.

Carved out of ivory walrus tusk, the partially damaged representation of a head and torso measures just three centimeters.

“If you think of Vikings as savage or wild, this figure is proving the opposite, actually. He is very well-groomed,” curator Peter Pentz told AFP, holding up the piece with white-gloved hands.

“He has a center parting up to the top of his head, and then in the neck his hair is cut,” Pentz said. He has a side wave that leaves the ear visible, and, in addition to a large moustache and a long, braided goatee, he also has sideburns. AFP

UN nuke watchdog chief: Inspectors ‘back in Iran’ WASHINGTON, DC – The head of the UN’s nuclear watchdog has said a team of its inspectors is “back in Iran,” the first to enter since Israeli and US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities this year. Iran suspended cooperation with the United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency following a 12-day war with Israel in June, with Tehran pointing to the IAEA’s failure to condemn Israeli and US strikes on its nuclear facilities.

“Now the first team of IAEA inspectors is back in Iran, and we are about to restart,” director general Rafael Grossi told Fox News’ “The Story” in an interview aired on Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time).

“When it comes to Iran, as you know, there are many facilities. Some were attacked, some were not,” Grossi said.

“So we are discussing what kind of... practical modalities can be implemented in order to facilitate the restart of our work there.” AFP

Sinner, Swiatek sweep into 2nd round; Gauff struggles

NEW YORK—

World number one Jannik Sinner began his bid for backto-back US Open titles with an emphatic victory on Tuesday as women’s draw favourite Iga Swiatek swept into the second round.

Italian star Sinner waltzed to a 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 win over Czech world number 89 Vit Kopriva, needing just 1hr 38min to advance to the next round.

“It feels great to be back here. Obviously it’s a very special tournament,” said Sinner, who is attempting to become the first man to repeat as US Open champion since Roger Federer won five in a row from 2004-2008.

Sinner, 24, faces Alexei Popyrin in the third round.

“I’m very happy that I’m healthy again,” said Sinner, who was forced to retire from last week’s Cincinnati Open final against Carlos Alcaraz.

“I have amazing memories (from last year). Every year is different. You come here starting this tournament hopefully in the best possible way, which I did,” he added.

Sinner’s blistering start on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court was matched by Poland’s Swiatek, who was similarly emphatic in a 6-1, 6-2 rout of Colombia’s Emiliana Arango.

The 24-year-old from Poland was always in control against 84thranked Arango, overwhelming the Colombian with some powerful groundstrokes mixed with some deft work at the net.

PBA to hold Draft Combine on Sept. 4-5 at Pasig arena

THE PBA holds the annual Draft Combine next week to officially kick off pre-season activities for its golden anniversary.

The Combine, which provides teams the avenue to assess the fitness and abilities of rookie prospects, is set Sept. 4 and 5 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig starting at 9 a.m.

The two-day meet serves as prelude to the Season 50 Rookie Draft on Sept. 7 at the Mall of Asia Music Hall beginning at 5 p.m. Close to 40 players have so far applied for the draft, two days before the deadline for submission by the end of office hours on Friday. Among the marquee names available include Fil-foreign guards Dalph Panopio and Jason Brickman, former NCAA MVP Will Gozum, LJay Gonzales of Far Eastern University, Ateneo’s Chris Koon, Christian Manaytay of University of Santo Tomas, St. Benilde’s Mark Sangco, among others.

plays a

The win makes Swiatek the first woman in history to win 65 consecutive WTA-level first round matches, surpassing Monica Seles’ previous record of 64.

Yet Swiatek’s performance was relegated to a footnote in her post-match press conference, where news of pop star Taylor Swift’s engagement to NFL player Travis Kelce dominated the questions. - ‘Swiftie’ SwiatekSwiatek is a fully paid-up “Swiftie” -- the nickname given to Swift’s millions of fanatical followers -- and could not hide her delight at learning of the singer’s looming nuptials.

“I’m just happy for her, because she deserves the best,” Swiatek said. The six-time Grand Slam singles

champion -- a winner in New York in 2022 -- will face the Netherlands’ Suzan Lamens in the second round. Yet while Sinner and Swiatek strolled into the second round, 2023 women’s singles champion Coco Gauff was forced to claw her way past Australia’s Ajla Tomljanovic in a gruelling late night battle that lasted just under three hours. AFP

UAAP announces changes to calendar, new theme song

League officials from host UST discuss the events of coming Season 88.

By Peter Atencio

ORGANIZERS of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines have moved the judo and taekwondo events to the second semester, restored the staging of the high school baseball tournament and will introduce secondary boys’ lawn

tennis events into their calendar.

Rescheduling judo and taekwondo to the second half of the school year, organizers said, will help decongest the league’s calendar of events in the first semester. On the other hand, bringing back the secondary boys’ baseball games will

allow the league to improve its high school sports program, and so will the introduction of boys’ lawn tennis in their roster of events.

“This is about aligning our programs in college, as it needs a grassroots’ program also. This needs a developmental program from high school. And this al-

lows athletes to move up in level, when they go to college,” said Rev. Fr. Rodel Cansancio, OP, UAAP Board of Managing Directors’ president. Cansancio said this after this year’s host University of Santo Tomas, also officially unveiled the league’s theme song on Wednesday.

League officials talked about the coming season during a launch at the UST’s Dr. Robert Sy Grand Ballroom in Espana, Manila. Singer and former Calla Lilly frontman Kian Cipriano introduced the league’s new theme song, “Strength in Motion, Hope in Action,” when he sang it at the launch.

The university will officially launch Season 88 with a grand opening ceremony on September 19 at the UST Grandstand and Open Field. Action in the basketball games will commence on Sept. 20 and 21 at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

Smart backs Smart Omega’s return to MPL Season 16

MOBILE services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is once again throwing its full support behind esports team Smart Omega as it returns to the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League (MPL) Philippines for Season 16— marking a new chapter in its journey toward esports excellence. This renewed campaign reflects Smart’s and parent company PLDT’s broader commitment to sports development in the Philippines, and the group’s belief in the power of competitive platforms to shape character, build resilience, and inspire the youth.

“Smart’s support for esports is part of our mission to help build character and opportunity through sports and technology,” said Jude H. Turcuato, FVP and Head of Sports at PLDT and Smart. “We believe in second chances, in comebacks, and in the kind of perseverance that defines true athletes—whether on the court or in the digital arena.” Smart Omega enters MPL S16

with a revitalized roster, blending veteran leadership and emerging talent with Salic Alauya “Hadji” Imam (Mid Laner), Czedrick Jaylord “SuperYoshi” Romero (Roamer), Dean Christian “Raizen” Sumagui (Jungler), Kenneth “Netskie” Barro (Gold Laner), James “Jeymz” Gloria (EXP Laner), and Errol Ace “Peuder” Amido (Multirole). The team is guided by Hans “Wurahhhh” Solano (Head Coach), Lemuel Josh “Coach Lembot” Lucban (Assistant Coach), and Allec “SN4P” Alvarado (Analyst).

“We know what it’s like to fall short—and we know what it takes to rise again,” said Hadji, team captain and mid laner. “This season is about proving to ourselves and to our supporters that we’re still here, still hungry, and ready to fight for greatness.”

Smart’s continued investment in esports—from grassroots programs to professional leagues—underscores its role in building a vibrant digital and sports ecosystem, where Filipino talent can thrive and inspire.

Latest to apply for the draft are former UAAP 3x3 MVP CJ Austria and La Salle teammate Joshua David, Letran’s Vincent Cuajao and Arthur Roque, Perpetual Help’s John Cedric Abis, Justine Guevarra of University of the East, St. Benilde’s Jake Gaspay, and Neil Jay Tolentino of Arellano University. Terrafirma owns the season’s no. 1 overall pick followed by Phoenix. Justin Baltazar was the top overall pick by Converge in the Season 49 draft.

UAAP athletes barred from PBA Draft during season

STUDENT athletes of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines won’t be allowed to join the Philippine Basketball Association Draft and turn professional while league competitions are going on.

Officials of the UAAP said this on Wednesday after they rejected the PBA’s request to allow senior players in Season 88 to take part in the coming PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft.

“We know the merits and advantages of this. The decision is for the whole program. So, we had to decline for this season,” said UAAP executive director Rebo Saguisag.

The PBA will have its annual rookie draft selection on Sept. 7 at SM Mall of Asia. Before the draft, the PBA made a proposal to the UAAP to allow its student athletes, who still have playing years in the collegiate league, to join the pro league. Among the players making their intentions to join the PBA Draft were La Salle’s Mike Phillips, UST’s Forthsky Padrigao and Nic Cabanero, UE’s John Abate, Adamson’s Cedrick Manzano. Also expected to make a decision to turn pro soon are University of the Philippines’ Harold Alarcon, Gerry Abadiano, and Terrence Forthea.

“Hindi namin pinagbigyan ang request for players to be drafted in the middle of the season,” said Saguisag, adding that the pro league even invited players to join the draft even before the UAAP season began.

“Kailangang pag-aralan ito with all its implications,” said Saguisag. Peter Atencio

Poland’s Iga Swiatek

forehand return to Colombia’s Emiliana Arango during their women’s singles first-round tennis match on Day 3 of the US Open tennis tournament at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City. AFP

THURSDAY, AUGUST 28, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Sports world congratulates Swift, Kelce on engagement

NEW YORK—Pop singer Taylor Swift and NFL Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce announced their engagement on social media on Tuesday, prompting congratulations from across the sports world.

The celebrity couple, who made their relationship public in 2023, were congratulated by the Chiefs, with whom Kelce has won three Super Bowl crowns, most recently last year.

“Today is a fairytale,” the Chiefs posted on social media with emojis of a heart and an engagement ring. “Congrats to Travis and Taylor — we’re excited to have you as a permanent member of the Chiefs Kingdom family!”

The NFL got into the act as well, posting on X, “Congratulations to Travis and Taylor,” with the photo of Kelce on his knees in front of Swift in a flower-filled garden.

The league also ran a video clip of Swift with Kelce as Super Bowl victory confetti was falling behind them, the singer saying, “This is so crazy. I cannot believe this is really happening. I’m in shock,” with an NFL caption reading, “Same.” Chiefs defensive end Michael Danna, who was having a news conference at the time the engagement news went public, said: “I don’t know nothing.”

“Man, it’s incredible. I was caught off guard but you know, great for them,” Danna added.

“That’s a blessing. Any time you find that type of joy, blessing, love -that’s a beautiful thing.”

Brittany Mahomes, the wife of Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, posted on Instagram: “Two of the most genuine people meet & fall in love. Just so happy for these two.”

The ATP Tour posted a video of Swift and Kelce at the US Open tennis tournament saying congratulations and adding: “This is the moment we knew they were meant to be.”

Major League Baseball’s Cleveland Guardians had a joking take on the news, which came just after MLB had announced the 2026 season schedule. AFP

Kobe Shinwa primes up vs. Chery Tiggo, battles Cignal

Games Thursday (Araneta Coliseum)

4 p.m. – Cignal vs Kobe Shinwa

6:30 p.m. – PLDT vs ZUS Coffee

KOBE Shinwa University begins its most crucial stretch in the PVL Invitational today (Thursday), aiming to clear the first of two formidable hurdles that stand between it and a dream Finals appearance as it takes on Cignal at the Araneta Coliseum. While PLDT is safely through to Sunday’s championship match with a spotless 4-0 record, the second Finals berth is still very much up for grabs – and Kobe Shinwa is determined to seize it. PLDT has long secured the first Finals berth with an unblemished 4-0 record and will use its 6:30 p.m. match against ZUS Coffee as a final tune-up for Sunday’s championship. There, the High Speed Hitters will not only aim to follow up their PVL On Tour title run but also complete a remarkable 13-game sweep across both tournaments. But first things first.

Pop superstar Taylor Swift and American football player Travis Kelce announced their engagement on August 26, 2025, setting the stage for a highprofile wedding for the celebrity couple. A joint post on their Instagram pages showed pictures of Kelce on one knee making his marriage proposal in a flower-laden garden, and then Swift, 35, displaying a large diamond ring. AFP

Flawless 7-triumph feat nets

Frayna Abu Dhabi chess title

By Randy M. Caluag

THE Philippines scored a historic chess triumph in international chess as Woman Grandmaster (WGM) Janelle Mae Frayna dominated the Ladies’ Blitz event of the 31st Abu Dhabi International Chess Festival.

Fresh off a stunning four-set victory over last year’s champion Creamline last Tuesday, Kobe Shinwa (2-1) is looking to carry its momentum into the final stretch of the tournament. With their combination of speed, chemistry and youthful exuberance, the Japanese showcased elite-level composure and execution in crunch time, overwhelming a veteran-laden Cool Smashers side.

field of 120 players from 24 countries, including 28 titled masters, reinforcing her stature as one of Asia’s elite female players.

In a social media post, Frayna said: “This is my first time playing in the Abu Dhabi Chess Festival. Thank you to our Pinoy friends who made us feel at home. It’s one tough tournament, but I will surely give my best.” Frayna, 29, is an enlisted personnel of the Philippine Army.She became the country’s first Woman Grandmaster in 2017 after being awarded the title by the Fédération Internationale des Échecs (FIDE).

A graduate of Far Eastern University, she was named co-recipient of the UAAP Season 77 Athlete of the Year award.

She also won two bronze medals in the 2021 Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam in the women’s rapid and women’s individual blitz events.

Quezon, Cebu, Pasay try to extend hot streak

QUEZON Province, Cebu and Pasay try to extend their hot runs against separate opponents on Thursday, August 28, as Manny Pacquiao presents 1xBet-MPBL 2025 Season resumes at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.

The South Division leader Quezon Huskers tackle the Sarangani Grippers at 4 p.m., the Cebu Greats battle Zamboanga SiKat at 6 p.m., while the Pasay Voyagers tangle with the Bacolod Tubo Slashers at 8 p.m. in the round-robin elimination phase of the 30-team, two-division tournament.

The Huskers stunned the Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards, 78-73, on August 23 to post their third straight win and improve

their record to 19-4.

Powered by crack guards LJ Gonzales, Judel Fuentes and Diego Dario, the Huskers are favored over the Grippers, who have slight playoff chances at 9-14. Cebu, with Jun Manzo and Paul Desiderio at the helm, is on a five-game roll and, with a 10-15 slate, is ranked 10th in the same division.

Pasay, holder of a 16-8 card in the North Division, also enjoys a five-win run and is expected to make it six against Bacolod, which sits at 3-20 in the South. Abra leads the North Division with a 22-1 slate, followed by Nueva Ecija (22-2) and San Juan (21-2.

Retamar: Bigger, stronger Europeans brought out the best in us

JOSHUA “Owa” Retamar and his teammates at Alas Pilipinas brought home huge gains after facing taller and stronger European teams in a fruitful three-country training camp in Morocco, Romania, and Portugal ahead of their historic debut in the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship the country is hosting next month.

The 25-year-old playmaker admitted that they got at first intimidated in tuneup matches against the European teams but shrugged off the shaky nerves that in the end, the stronger opponents brought out the best in them, making them realize that skills are against taller a neutralizer for the handicap.

“At first, I was a bit nervous because everyone here is so tall. We felt like high schoolers compared to them,” Retamar said. “But we’re happy because we realized that even if we’re smaller, we can still keep up with them,” “They have a height advantage, but

we can match their skills,” he said.

“Our training camp has been exhausting, but it was so worth it. It helped us a lot.”

Retamar was the youngest national team member at age 19 when he stepped up as the main setter and was instrumental in that historic silver medal at the Philippines 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

In the country’s historic participation and hosting of the 32-nation worlds, Retamar is one of the senior members, guiding the new Alas Pilipinas setters Eco Adajar and Elijah Tae-yin Kim under his wing.

“The three of us really support each other, especially during games. We always talk about strategies to score quickly, so we’ve become a great trio on the court,” he said. “Even now, I still struggle to act like a senior on the team. That’s why Kuya Bryan (Bagunas) and Kuya Marck (Espejo) always

remind me that I need to step up and be a leader.”

But under Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni, the UAAP Finals MVP and Best Setter out of National University gained important lessons on and off the court from the world champion tacti cian.

“I’m improving in a lot of ways, even my attitude when it comes to volley ball. Even if I can’t always show it or do what’s expected of me right away, I’m really trying, for myself and for my team,” Retamar said.

Retamar is one of the 21 Alas pool members, hoping to make it to the Final 14 and be part of the historic opener on September 12 against Tunisia at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, followed by fea turing the popular K-pop BOYNEXT DOOR and Cebuana singer, songwriter and actress Karencitta who’ll be sing ing the theme song of the worlds in a first-of-its kind opening ceremony.

coach tactiways, volleymake the feaK-pop BOYNEXTCebuana sing- ‘Owa’ Retamar

Woman Grandmaster (WGM) Janelle Mae Frayna

Jun Manzo plays a pivotal role for the Cebu Greats.

BSP likely to slash policy rates amid easing inflation

By Jenniffer B. Austria

Jean de Castro, head of fixed income at Manulife Investment Management, said the BSP is likely to focus on the significant drop in inflation to 0.9 percent in July, a near six-year low, and second-quarter gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 5.5 percent.

favor longer-duration fixed-income instruments.

“As inflation remains subdued and monetary policy remains supportive, investors may increase their exposure to government securities and extend portfolio duration, expecting stable or declining yields,” she said.

“The BSP will likely prioritize balancing support for growth with the need to ensure price stability, while also monitoring external risks and financial sector conditions,” she said.

De Castro said the BSP’s expected rate cut and continued dovish posture would likely keep government bond yields low, encouraging investors to

“These signals indicate easing price pressures and resilient economic activity, providing the Philippine central bank with room to further ease its accommodative stance,” De Castro said.

PROJECT MONITORING. Department of Budget and Management

Secretary Amenah Pangandaman (second from left), along with Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon (third from left), Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT)

Secretary Henry Aguda, Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Romando Artes, leads an inspection of the Tripa De Galina pumping station in Pasay City during the launch of the Flood Control Project (FCP) components and ceremonial signing of the memorandum of understanding for Digital Information for Monitoring and Evaluation on Aug. 27, 2025. The project highlights the government’s effort to adopt digital monitoring tools to enhance flood management and disaster preparedness. Norman Cruz

LAND Bank of the Philippines said is extending majority of a P100-billion syndicated term loan facility to the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. (PSALM) in support of the government’s fiscal sustainability and energy sector reform efforts.

LandBank, one of the joint lead arrangers and lenders, committed P60 billion or 60 percent of the total

“This environment is expected to reinforce positive sentiment in the fixed-income market and encourage strategic positioning toward longerterm assets,” said de Castro.

De Castro said that for September inflation rate, key market drivers include food price deflation, particularly for rice and other staples and stable inflation expectations among consumers and businesses.

syndicated term loan facility. The proceeds of the facility will be used to augment PSALM’s working capital requirements, refinance existing liabilities and settle domestic contractual obligations.

PSALM president and chief executive Dennis Edward Dela Serna, LandBank president and chief executive Lynette Ortiz and DBP president and chief executive Michael

de Jesus signed the syndicated loan facility agreement on July 17, 2025.

The signing was witnessed by government corporate counsel Solomon Hermosura.

“We are honored to be part of this important milestone, alongside our partners in government and development finance. This transaction reflects our collective resolve to strengthening the Philippine

power sector — an industry that is fundamental to shaping the future of our economy and uplifting the lives of every Filipino,” said Ortiz. LandBank and DBP acted as the joint lead arrangers for the syndicated deal, with LandBank-Trust Banking Group as the facility and paying agent, and the officer of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC) as the transaction counsel.

35,000 24,000 29,715 EV sales target in 2025 EV sales in 2024 EV sales in 7 months of 20025

2025 EV sales seen rising 24% to 35,000 units

By Othel V. Campos

“With more launches coming in the remaining months from brands like BYD, Jaecoo, the Juan Group, Cherry and our other members, we are confident sales will end the year at a conservative 35,000 units,” Araga said in a pre-event briefing for the upcoming 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS).

Government data showed that registrations already hit 29,715 units from January to July 2025, surpassing the 24,000 units recorded for the whole of 2024.

Araga said the market has expanded from private cars to battery electric vehicles (BEVs), including SUVs, trucks, buses and motorcycles.

“This is an indication that it’s not only concentrating on one model or type. Logistics firms, government agencies, and private companies are now considering EV fleets,” he said.

DA: Bird flu vaccine to lift poultry sector

By Othel V. Campos

The Department of Agriculture (DA) welcomed the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval of the country’s first vaccine against avian influenza, citing its development as a major breakthrough for the poultry industry.

“With the FDA’s approval of Volvac B.E.S.T. AI plus ND, the poultry sector now has a strong line of defense against a virus that threatens both food security and human health,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. in a news briefing.

Volvac B.E.S.T. AI plus ND provides immunity against the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) subtype H5N1 and stimulates the immune system to defend against velogenic Newcastle disease. Both are highly contagious, with H5N1 also transmissible to humans. The vaccine is administered by injection when the bird is at least 10 days old, with immunity developing after 10 to 14 days. By protecting flocks from deadly avian influenza and Newcastle disease, it is expected to help safeguard the poultry industry, which generated P362 billion in production value in 2024, including eggs, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Tiu Laurel said the DA, the Department of Health (DOH) and the FDA had worked together to ensure that only safe and effective livestock

vaccines enter the market. “We are confident that more initiatives will be pursued on livestock vaccines and medicines that will strengthen our livestock sector and contribute to food security,” he said. The DA chief said the initiative is part of a whole-of-government approach under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to boost agricultural productivity, safeguard food safety and protect livelihood in the livestock sector.

ACEN unit eyes 247-MW wind farm in Quezon

By Alena Mae S. Flores

GIGAWIND4 Inc., a subsidiary of ACEN Corp., plans to develop the 247-megawatt Banahaw Wind Power Project in Quezon province at a cost of P34.524 billion.

The proposed project will be located across 10 barangays in Tayabas: Alitao, Anos, Baguio, Bukal Ibaba, Bukal Ilaya, Calantas, Calumpang, Gibanga, Ipilan and Malaoa, according to the company’s submission to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

A total of 38 wind turbine generators (WTGs) will be installed, each with a capacity of 6.5 MW, occupying an area of 1.2 hectares. The total WTG footprint will be 45.6 hectares.

Dam.

WE find positive financial reports encouraging. They reflect the stability of a company and the good job done by competent managers.

The positive profit picture also mirrors the state of the economy in general—corporates are doing well under a business-friendly economic regime.

NLEX Corp., which operates the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and Subic-ClarkTarlac Expressway (SCTEX), reported a net income of P7.3 billion in the first six months of 2024, up 31 percent from P5.5 billion during the same period last year. It attributed the increase to higher traffic volumes and toll adjustments.

NLEX managers should be proud of their firm’s financial record. Toll revenues climbed 19 percent to P14.6 billion in the first half of 2025. The company attributed the higher revenues to an increase in average vehicular traffic volume and toll rate adjustments it implemented in March in March this year.

NLEX’s impressive financials, however, pale in comparison with the service it renders when operating the two expressways.

We have heard of numerous complaints from motorists and commuters about the traffic they encounter in the infrastructure facilities.

As I have written in this column before, the heavy rains and floods in late July this

year caused untold misery to thousands of commuters traveling to north of Metro Manila.

Many passengers had to wait for hours in that episode while some spent the night on their transportation because of impassable roads and junctions.

NLEX also has not provided a solution to ease the crawling traffic toward its toll gates. Last Monday, for instance, was the last day of a long weekend that sent many Filipinos driving and commuting to the northern provinces of Luzon earlier.

NLEX presumably had expected the heavy volume of vehicles and commuters lining up the expressways toward the toll gates. Unfortunately, NLEX again did not prepare for the heavy traffic volume that everybody expected on the return to Metro Manila. NLEX owes it to the commuters using the expressway to provide reliable and safe service. All it has to do is raise its expenses a little bit to provide engineering solutions to the traffic snarl near its toll gates.

Traffic at the NLEX roads will get worse as the economy expands. Per NLEX, the average daily traffic as of June 30 reached 356,392 daily vehicle entries, a 1-percent increase from 2024 figures.

The average daily traffic on SCTEX,

The WTG model for the project is the EN-171/6.5 by Envision Energy, a three-bladed, upwind, horizontalaxis model that operates with pitch regulation for variable-speed functionality.

GigaWind4 secured exclusive development rights for the project through a service contract, WESC 2022-07-210, signed with the Department of Energy on Aug. 31, 2022.

“While solar energy remains pivotal in the renewable energy mix, the synergy between solar and wind energy is noteworthy,” the company said.

“Integrating the proposed 247MW wind farm into the broader energy landscape creates a robust and balanced renewable energy mix,

addressing the Philippines’ increasing demand for clean and sustainable energy,” it said.

The company said the project also promises economic benefits, as evidenced by recent successes like the Green Energy Auction (GEA-2) and will attract investments, create employment opportunities, and foster economic growth.

“In the pursuit of a sustainable and low-carbon future, the proposal for the 247 MW wind farm represents a strategic initiative,” GigaWind4 said.

“It aligns with the national trajectory towards renewable energy, addresses the necessity for a diversified and resilient energy mix, and significantly contributes to the Philippines’ transition towards clean energy,” it said.

Cityland announces merger with unit to enhance value

By Jenniffer B. Austria

CITYLAND Development Corp.

(CDC) said Wednesday it is merging with its listed subsidiary, City & Land Developers Inc. (LAND), to streamline operations and enhance shareholder value.

Under the plan, CDC will be the surviving entity, the parent company said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange.

“This internal restructuring is intended to streamline the corporate structure, improve operational efficiency, eliminate redundancies, and enhance overall shareholder value,” the company said.

The merger, cleared by its board, is subject to approval from the stockholders of both companies as

…. its service should not be a footnote to NLEX’s glowing numbers.

meanwhile, reached 84,081 daily vehicle entries, a 3-percent improvement from the same period last year. The NLEX Connector recorded an average of 20,467 daily vehicle entries in the first half of 2025.

The volume of NLEX and SCTEX traffic will continue to rise in the coming years. Company revenues will correspondingly increase and boost the financials of NLEX. But its service should not be a footnote to NLEX’s glowing numbers.

Lucrative drug market

The Philippines is poised to keep its position as the largest pharmaceutical market in Southeast Asia, says report by BMI, a Fitch Solutions company.

“We forecast the pharmaceutical market to rise to P438 billion ($7.5 billion) by 2029 from P352 billion ($6.1 billion) in 2024, growing at a five-year compound annual growth rate

well as regulatory clearance from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC).

Consolidating the businesses under one corporate umbrella will simplify the ownership structure and improve operational coordination, CDC said. The company expects the merged entity to gain stronger financial and operational flexibility to better respond to market opportunities within the real estate sector.

The companies have a preliminary share swap ratio of 0.88, which means one LAND share is equivalent to 0.88 CDC shares.

CDC said it would issue 1.389 billion common shares to acquire 1.578 billion total issued and outstanding common shares of LAND.

(CAGR) of 4.5 percent in local currency terms and 4.1 percent in U.S. dollar terms,” the BMI report said. This report finds relevance in the Philippines’ pursuit of warmer trade relations with India, a nation that produces cheap medicines.

The recent official visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to India, marked by meetings with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu and Indian business leaders, has opened a wide range of opportunities for cooperation in sectors that include pharmaceuticals. Cheap medicines from India will significantly reduce the cost of health care in the Philippines and lessen our dependence on Western drugs. India as a source of foreign investment should be encouraged. Indian pharmaceutical giant Aurobindo Pharma Limited, earlier expressed strong interest in establishing a manufacturing facility in the Philippines.

Relocating the big Indian pharmaceutical companies here is an ideal investment set-up. They will provide manufacturing capacities to make medicines more affordable and create create jobs at the same time.

E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com

SEC expands 1-day business registration

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)

said Wednesday it has expanded the number of industries eligible under its One Day Submission and Electronic Registration of Companies, or OneSEC program.

It said the number of industries allowed to use OneSEC was increased to 81 from 33. The expanded coverage led to a nearly 300-percent increase in the number of companies registered through the system in July, with 2,938 registrations compared to 1,014 in May.

“Company registration marks the first step in legitimizing a business, which is why we want to make the process as easy and accessible as possible to our stakeholders,” SEC chairman Francis Lim said.

“As we move to streamline the registration process, we hope to encourage more entrepreneurs to use the corporate vehicle in facilitating their business and eventually, raise funds for expansion by tapping the capital market,” he said.

OneSEC, launched in 2021, is a subsystem of the Electronic Simplified Processing of Application for

RESPONSIBLE

ADVERTISING.

The Ad Standards Council (ASC) recognizes Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco (left) for his leadership in promoting responsible advertising in the gaming industry during the council’s ‘Patas na Patalastas’ Summit in Makati City.

Registration of Company, or eSPARC. It uses pre-filled application forms to streamline registration and has allowed some companies to complete the process in as fast as one minute and 14 seconds, from the start of the application to the receipt of a digital certificate of incorporation.

Corporations eligible for OneSEC include one-person corporations and regular corporations with two to 15 incorporators, board members and stockholders.

The SEC said the expansion is part of its broader efforts to improve the ease of doing business in the Philippines.

To encourage more micro, small and medium enterprises to register as corporations, the SEC earlier granted a 20-percent discount on registration fees and up to a 50-percent discount on filing fees for those seeking to tap the capital market through Memorandum Circular No. 8, Series of 2025.

GCash rolls out new contactless payment feature

By Darwin G. Amojelar

ELECTRONIC wallet GCash said it is rolling out a new contactless payment option that offers convenience, security and global reach.

Called GCash Tap to Pay, the payment innovation allows users to pay by simply tapping their Near Field Communications (NFC)-enabled Android phone on any Mastercard-accepting terminal.

Powered by a collaboration between Alipay+ and Mastercard, Tap to Pay offers GCash users a convenient and secure way to pay at more than 150 million locations worldwide.

The new feature expands on GCash’s existing QR code payment options, making it easier for Filipinos to use their e-wallet for both local

and international transactions without needing a credit or debit card.

“At GCash, our goal has always been to drive financial innovation and create an inclusive, cashless ecosystem,” said RenRen Reyes, president and chief executive of GCash operator G-Xchange Inc.

“With Tap to Pay, we’re not just modernizing payments; we’re empowering Filipinos with a seamless and globally competitive solution that is locally relevant and universally accessible,” he said.

Tap to Pay enables users to complete payments with a simple tap of their NFC-enabled Android phone on any Mastercard-accepting point-ofsale (POS) terminal. This complements the current QR code payment in more than 50 des-

tinations globally, significantly expanding global acceptance of GCash via scan or tap — from small local shops to major department stores.

This further reduces the need to carry cash, streamlining everyday transactions while abroad.

“GCash is a pioneer in driving digital payments, and now one of our first partners to enable Alipay+ NFC global payment capability,” said Douglas Feagin, president of Ant International.

“Alipay+’s collaboration with Mastercard is redefining a new future of global payments, enabling Alipay+ partner wallets to be accepted at Mastercard NFC merchants around the world. We believe that greater interoperability between e-wallet and card systems is a trend of the future,” he said.

DHSUD: Even 1% of corruption is unacceptable

THE government and private sector should not tolerate “even one percent of corruption” to give the Philippines a chance to become a developed nation, according to Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling.

Aliling, speaking at a housing summit Tuesday, called on the Organization of Socialized and Economic Housing Developers of the Philippines (OSHDP) to make the housing sector a model of a corruption-free and transparent industry.

“Even one percent of corruption is unacceptable,” Aliling said.

“Both the private sector and the government should work together to achieve zero corruption in the housing sector,” he said.

IN BRIEF

UITFs accredited as PERA option

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Tuesday Philippine-issued Unit Investment Trust Funds (UITFs) are now eligible to be accredited as Personal Equity and Retirement Account (PERA) investment products.

These include UITFs with foreign-issued securities or fund investments, such as global feeder funds and fund-of-funds. They may qualify as BSP-eligible PERA investment products, subject to the central bank’s existing approval process.

Global feeder funds are local UITFs that allocate at least 90% of their assets to a single target fund outside the Philippines. Meanwhile, fund-of-funds are mutual funds with at least 50% of net assets invested in other collective investment schemes managed by different fund operators.

According to a BSP memorandum dated Aug. 20, the inclusion of these investment options would help PERA contributors diversify their investment portfolios.

“This, in turn, supports the capital market development objectives of the PERA Law by broadening the range of available instruments and providing additional diversification opportunities, thereby contributing to improved price formation and more efficient portfolio allocation,” it said.

Thony Rose Lesaca TLDC, Security Bank sign partnership deal

TORRE Lorenzo Development Corporation (TLDC), the pioneer in premium university residences in the Philippines, teamed up with Security Bank Corporation as one of its strategic financing partners to broaden home ownership opportunities for Filipinos.

The partnership will provide TLDC’s current and future buyers with flexible

Aliling has implemented reforms during his first 90 days in office, including a zerotolerance policy for corruption, process streamlining and digitalization.

These reforms drew support from stakeholders, with 42 private developers committing over 250,000 housing units to the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program.

Aliling’s remarks come as the government investigates allegations of “ghost” and substandard flood control projects, which President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently discovered during inspections.

“It’s a matter of political will. Let us help our President Marcos Jr. to fight corruption so that we can finally develop,” said Aliling.

including exclusive loan offerings, competitive interest rates and faster processing through Security Bank’s housing loan programs.

Security Bank, known for its awardwinning customer service and digital-first banking solutions, said it would customize mortgage products for TLDC buyers, potentially offering promotional rates for select developments.

“Partnering with Torre Lorenzo allows us to align with a developer known for quality, innovation, and integrity. Together, we look forward to helping more Filipinos own homes they can be proud of,” said Security Bank vice president Robert Tejuco.

Othel V. Campos

VICT strikes deal with labor unions

VICTORIA International Container Terminal (VICT), the Australian cargohandling operation of International Container Terminal Services Inc., has signed a new enterprise agreement with local unions that covers its entire operations until March 2029.

The agreement, which was reached without any disruption to operations, provides a solid platform for the future and reflects the strong relationship between VICT and its workforce, ICTSI said in a statement.

“This outcome demonstrates our commitment to working collaboratively with our people and unions. This agreement not only delivers meaningful benefits for employees but also provides VICT with the flexibility needed to service our customers and meet evolving industry demands,” said VICT chief executive Bruno Porchietto. The agreement includes enhanced benefits and conditions for employees, greater flexibility to align with customer and industry requirements and a secure industrial relations framework to support growth and innovation.

Darwin G. Amojelar

CAR POOL. Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon meets with Grab executives in Singapore to tackle ways to provide Filipinos with comfortable, affordable and efficient mobility options as part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure a commuter-friendly environment. Source: DOTr’s Facebook page

Foundation

donates 1,000 bags of rice to Tondo fire victims

THE Angelo King Foundation donated 1,000 bags of rice, with each bag containing five kilograms, to residents affected by a major fire in Tondo, Manila.

The donation was a response to a five-alarm fire that occurred on the morning of Aug. 6, which destroyed a subdivision on Road 10, Aroma Compound, Barangay 105, Tondo, Manila.

The blaze left 4,500 residents from 1,500 families homeless.

Paolo Limsico, a representative from the Angelo King Foundation, accompanied by Manila Mayor Isko Moreno and staff from the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), visited the fire-ravaged area on Aug. 20 to personally distribute the rice to the victims.

FFCCCII, Charity

First team up to boost education

By Julie Ann Lope

THE Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) and the Charity First Foundation Inc. are strengthening their collaboration to provide educational support to underprivileged students and address the teacher shortage in Filipino-Chinese schools.

The partnership was discussed during a visit by FFCCCII vice president and supervisor of the culture and education committee, Co Kin Hung, to the foundation on Aug. 7.

The initiative focuses on two key areas. First, the FFCCCII will help introduce Charity First’s successful model to other FilipinoChinese community organizations, with the goal of helping more underprivileged students. Second, the two groups will guide students through scholarship projects to study Chinese-related courses. After graduation, these students would be encouraged to work at Filipino-Chinese schools, helping to alleviate the critical shortage of teachers.

Charity First Foundation Inc. was established in 2001 by a group of Filipino-Chinese philanthropists who sought a long-term solution to poverty after providing initial disaster relief.

In June 2002, the foundation launched its “From the Street to the Campus” education project, which has since helped 654 students graduate from various fields, including education, accountancy, engineering, and healthcare.

The foundation selects scholarship applicants through a point ranking system that evaluates academic transcripts, social worker interviews, and a home visit.

Beyond financial aid, the program provides comprehensive support. All students are required to attend life skills and motivational seminars to enhance their study habits, interaction, and public presentation skills.

The foundation also holds annual sports games in February to cultivate sportsmanship and friendship, and requires all students to perform four hours of community service each school term to foster a sense of civic responsibility.

Biz club, DTI empower MSMEs

Experts push for integration of traditional Chinese medicine

THE Philippine Association of Chinese Studies (PACS), in collaboration with the Kaisa Heritage Center, hosted a symposium on Aug. 26 at Bahay Tsinoy in Intramuros, Manila, with the theme “Integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in the Philippine Healthcare System”.

The event highlighted the long history and potential of TCM in the Philippines, with speakers underscoring its therapeutic benefits and the need for greater collaboration to advance its practice.

Dr. Cho-chiong Tan, associate professor and Psychiatry section head and consultant at Far Eastern University Institute of Medicine and the current chair of the Philippine Academy of Acupuncture, opened the discussion by tracing the history of acupuncture in the Philippines, a practice with a recorded history of 2,000 years.

He said that acupuncture, which involves the insertion of very thin needles into specific body points, stimulates the nervous system, improves blood flow and enhances overall bodily function.

Tan also paid tribute to Dr. Lilia Marquinez-Palanca, the first Filipino physician to formally study acupuncture in China under an arrangement by then First Lady Imelda Marcos. She later organized the Asia Congress of Acupuncture in the Philippines.

He also noted the significant role of the Department of Health (DOH) under then Secretary Dr. Juan Flavier, who in 1992 initiated the Traditional Medicine Program.

The program, which promotes the practice of traditional medicine in the Philippines, was a crucial step that eventually led to the enactment of the Traditional and Alternative Medicine

Act (TAMA) of 1997 (Republic Act No. 8423)

Dr. Isidro Sia, executive director of the Integrative Medicine for Alternative Healthcare Systems (INAM), detailed the significant role of his organization in the development of TCM.

Originally founded in 1984 as the Acupuncture Therapeutic and Research Center (ATRC), INAM has served as a training arm for non-governmental organizations on various TCM modalities, including acupuncture, acupressure, ventosa, and qigong.

Sia noted that INAM was a major force in the crafting of the Traditional and Alternative Medicine Act (TAMA) of 1997 (Republic Act No. 8423), which created the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC).

He also discussed INAM’s work with partner communities, including indigenous, farming, fishing and urban poor sectors, and outlined the organization’s goal to strengthen its sustainability in 2025.

Master Chui-Cheng Kong provided insights into the lifestyle aspects of TCM, focusing on the principles of traditional Chinese medicinal diets and healthpreserving exercises.

He described how TCM diets integrate edible herbs and foodstuffs to provide both nutritional and therapeutic benefits, and highlighted the growing popularity of medicated diet restaurants.

By Michael Wong Ho

THE Chinese Filipino Business Club Inc. (CFBCI), in partnership with the Department of Trade and IndustryNational Capital Regional Office (DTI-NCRO) and Lucky Chinatown, launched the Mini Metro Fiesta Goes to Binondo 2025 on Aug. 13.

The five-day trade fair, which concluded on Aug. 17, showcased 24 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the country.

CFBCI president Samuel Lee Uy, honorary president Stephen Tan Sia, vice president Willy Chuakimtong, DTI Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona, assistant secretaries Grace Baluyan and Leonila Baluyut, area 1 head Corona Olivia Rivera and Lucky Chinatown general manager Norico Mizoguchi attended the opening ceremony.

Uy said the fair provided a vital platform for MSMEs to showcase their products and highlighted the collaborative spirit between the government, private sector, and the Chinese community.

He also discussed the core principles of TCM exercises, which emphasize individualization, moderation, and the cultivation of a good spirit by coordinating body movement with a focused mind and proper breathing.

Wong Ho

Michael

Business

THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FFCCCII), led by its president Victor Lim attended the Grand Tourism Night ceremony

FFCCCII officers led by president Victor Lim (sixth from left) join First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos (fifth from left) during the Grand Tourism Night ceremony organized by the Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC) on Aug. 15, 2025 at the New World Hotel in Makati City.

Dr. Liang Guanghan, an associate professor from the School of Journalism and Communication at Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou, addresses the potential for ChinaPhilippine collaboration in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

He said that empowering MSMEs is crucial for economic progress and nurturing future entrepreneurs.

Uy also encouraged business owners to stay true to their goals, be inspired by those around them and keep working toward bigger achievements.

Lantayona lauded the CFBCI for its steadfast support of local businesses and thanked Lucky Chinatown for providing the venue free of charge. She also encouraged the public to support local products and introduced DTI’s latest programs aimed at assisting entrepreneurs.

Mizoguchi expressed the mall’s honor in hosting the fair and affirmed its commitment to working with the CFBCI and DTI to support MSMEs.

The exhibition featured a diverse range of products from 24 exhibitors.

Nine enterprises were founded by CFBCI officers or their children, showcasing the entrepreneurial talent of the next generation of Chinese-Filipino business leaders. The remaining 15 participants were selected by the DTI for their significant growth potential.

group attends Grand Tourism Night

organized by the Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC) on Aug. 15, 2025 at the New World Hotel in Makati City.

The event aimed to highlight

the crucial role of tourism in the economy. First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos affirmed the administration’s commitment to the tourism sector,

saying that the government is trying hard to invest in tourism related software and hardware. She said the administration views tourism as a major economic driving power because it contributes 8.9 percent of the country’s GDP.

Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the industry’s success is not accidental but a result of government proactive intervention.

She said the tourism industry provides jobs for an estimated seven million people.

The seminar also included an awards ceremony where the MOPC recognized 16 tourism-related companies for their contributions to promoting the tourism industry. Michael Wong Ho

Chinese Filipino Business Club Inc. (CFBCI) president Samuel Lee Uy, honorary president Stephen Tan Sia, vice president Willy Chuakimtong and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona attend the launching of the ‘Mini Metro Fiesta Goes to Binondo 2025’ on Aug. 13.

Michael Wong Ho

The Angelo King Foundation donates 1,000 bags of rice, with each bag containing five kilograms, to Tondo fire victims.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 28, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

By Angelica Villanueva

WHILE many poorly crafted singles receive airplay or social media attention, some songs from the past were released without fanfare but deserved recognition.

Music fans should unearth great records and songs instead of just letting them be spoon-fed by cheap trends, weak songwriting, and bad performances. Here are some lost gold tracks I recall hearing Memories by Eyescream

I was introduced to this band’s music by a friend who supported indie acts. I quickly noticed that this song is a brilliant showcase of hard rock, carried through good melody writing and song arrangement. The singing is very effective, too.

In My Prison by IV of Spades

I recall the moment the late great sound engineer Not Vinzons allowed me to listen to a song recorded by this band minus their lead singer, who went solo. It sounded like Duran Duran to me, and that’s a major compliment.

Bid Your Love by Sitti

The country’s bossa nova queen tried her hand at another genre. The result is a sexy piece that could have been big if listeners were open to letting Sitti step out of the genre she’s been associated with ever since.

Baka Sakali by Jay Jimenez

This acoustic piece earned some airplay but did not become as popular as it should have. Composition-wise, it is stylish; when you get to the chorus, you have to sing like a rapper. The tune has good recall and very relatable lyrics, like “na-low batt na ang cellphone ko / Pati pasensya’y naglaho.” The public missed out on this.

Happiness by Menaya

This track has a catchy chorus, and I must say, you can’t go wrong with a song that sounds like an ’80s gem.

Sa Sinehan by The Freesouls Ted Reyes and the rest of the band may have scored a big hit with this if they had released their recording during their major label run in the late ’90s. Too bad they only put out one album, and their sophomore offering, Flowers For The Soul, which contained this song, was shelved—no thanks to a previous single, “Yatehan,” being frowned upon by some FM radio stations. The album, which I consider better than Shindig, was uploaded to digital stores in 2014. At least the whole thing has become available for fans like me to enjoy.

Pangako by True Faith

This song came too late for Medwin Marfil’s band because, by the time of its release, the group’s days as a hit-making machine were long over. Not that they couldn’t come up with new hits, but their peak period had already sailed. Had they recorded this in the ’90s, it would have been in the league of hits like “Alaala” or “Sa Puso Ko.” It is a brilliant song with a good keyboard riff and sweet chorus, with Medwin’s voice smoothly riding the line “Sa delubyong naranasan nitong pagod na puso.”

You Make Me by Eraserheads

It’s a pity that this track had to be released via a compilation of indie artists when in fact it features 75 percent of Eraserheads and was released under the name Eheads—minus one key member, Ely Buendia. Yes, it’s practically an Eraserheads release without its chief songwriter and lead singer. Subjectively, the track has a charm that makes it strong enough to have been included on the group’s final album, Carbon Stereoxide. We can imagine Ely’s voice on it, and it may have been a legit Eraserheads single. In fairness to the female singer on the track, Kris Gorra-Dancel gave justice to the song and made it sound sexy.

‘In My Prison’ by IV of Spades is remembered as one of the band’s standout tracks

superstar Taylor Swift is officially off the market. She is now engaged to Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce after a romantic proposal that came complete with a $1 million diamond ring.

The couple, both 35, shared the news on Tuesday, Aug. 26, with a joint Instagram post showing Kelce down on one knee surrounded by a lavish display of flowers.

Swift’s caption read, “Your English teacher and gym teacher are getting married,” alongside snaps of her enormous

ring, crafted by Kindred Lubeck of Arifex Fine Jewellery.

Their relationship began in September 2023, when Taylor attended her first Chiefs game. Travis had previously revealed on his New Heights podcast that he tried to give the “Love Story” singer a friendship bracelet with his phone number at an Eras Tour concert—a gesture Taylor later described as “metal as hell” in Time magazine.

Since then, the couple has shared the spotlight in moments such as Taylor kissing Travis after the Chiefs’ 2024 Super Bowl win and his cameo during her London concert.

By Jasper Valdez

RISING singer-songwriter

Ponti, dubbed “Asia’s Pop Sweetheart,” is carving her own path in the music scene by leaning on Filipino culture and resisting shortcuts in the age of artificial intelligence (AI).

Speaking during a press conference on Aug. 15 at Aromata Bar in Quezon City, the 2024 Aliw Awards Best New Female Artist, who released her new single “You Loved Me First” on the same day, said her songs are grounded in lived experiences and Filipino melodies that she believes set her apart.

“Music is about culture and what we’ve been through as Filipinos,” Ponti said. “The melody itself has its own character, and that’s what I want people to hear.”

While peers in the new generation of pop lean on trends influenced by American and Korean music, Ponti admits she isn’t in a rush to chase global styles. For her, authenticity matters more than fitting in.

“I don’t want to create songs just to sound international,” she said. “I want to make music that speaks from my own experiences, and I think people can feel that when they listen.”

Ponti’s catalog already includes heartfelt ballads like “Babalik Ka” and reflective anthems such as Life Isn’t Perfect , but she also isn’t afraid to experiment.

Her motivational single “Dyahe” was designed with a more Gen Z-friendly pop sound while still carrying her signature style.

“I tried stepping out of my comfort zone with “Dyahe,” but it’s still me,” she said. “It’s about finding a balance where I can stay true to my artistry while keeping the music fresh.”

That desire for authenticity also explains her cautious take on technology in music.

She acknowledges that AI has been introduced as a tool for songwriting and production but insists it cannot replace human emotion and creativity.

“I tried using AI, but it has no life,” she said. “At the end of the day, I still depend on my own ideas, my own emotions. That’s what gives the music soul.”

Ponti credits much of her growth to her mother, Let, who has been her biggest supporter and quiet manager behind the scenes.

From styling her looks to filming her performances,

“My mom has been my

she said. “Her belief in me makes every note possible.”

Now with 13 original songs and counting, Ponti has gone from treating music as a hobby to becoming one of the most promising young acts in OPM.

She has shared the stage with veterans like Marco Sison and is set to join Nonoy Zuñiga’s 50th anniversary concert this September.

Despite the growing spotlight, Ponti remains committed to inspiring listeners through her songs rather than chasing numbers or viral moments.

“My rule has always been to use my music to inspire,” she said. “I want to heal broken hearts and remind people that life isn’t perfect, but it’s going to be okay.”

As she continues to release new music, Ponti is steadily proving that sincerity and cultural pride can resonate as strongly as global pop formulas.

For her, the goal is to be heard and remembered for music that stays true.

Taylor Swift (right) and Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce announce their engagement after a romantic proposal

Taylor Swift shows off her $1 million diamond engagement ring crafted by Kindred Lubeck of Arifex Fine Jewellery

Rising singer-songwriter Isha Ponti performs at Aromata Bar in Quezon City during her Aug. 15 press conference

SHOWBIZ

New campaign promotes learning and values through entertainment

GMA Network has launched “Be Juan Tama,” an advocacy campaign encouraging viewers to choose content that promotes mental, emotional, and social growth, as part of its 75th anniversary celebration.

The campaign was made official on Tuesday during a partnership launch and memorandum of agreement signing at the GMA Network Center in Quezon City.

Three of GMA’s infotainment and talk shows—Fast Talk with Boy Abunda i-Bilib, and Amazing Earth—will spearhead the initiative. Hosts Boy Abunda, Chris Tiu, and Dingdong Dantes will lead efforts to promote learning, meaningful conversations, and discovery for Filipino audiences.

Partner organizations include Anak TV Foundation, National Council for Children’s Television, World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines, Office of Civil Defense, Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP), and Philippine Women’s University.

GMA was represented at the signing by Cheryl Ching-Sy, officer-in-charge for the Entertainment Group and vice president for

left:

Boy

and Chris

advocacy campaign promoting content for mental, emotional, and social growth

drama; Janine Piad-Nacar, vice president of business development division 2; and Enri Calaycay, assistant vice president of business development division 2. Abunda, Tiu, and Dantes also attended.

Signing for the partner groups were Elvira Y. Go, president of Anak TV; Maria Jowelyne A. Abendan, officer-in-charge of the National Council for Children’s Television; Usec. Harold Cabreros, civil defense administrator of the

Office of Civil Defense; Jo-Ann Q. Maglipon editor-in-chief of PEP.ph; Marielle Benitez Javellana, director of campus life at Philippine Women’s University; and Katherine Custodio, executive director of WWF Philippines.

Ching-Sy said the initiative is “a movement to show that learning through entertainment is one of the most powerful ways to instill values, inspire knowledge, and impart life lessons that uplift lives.”

“Be Juan Tama” highlights the importance of educational and inspirational entertainment in today’s information-heavy environment. The campaign reframes the persona of “Juan Tamad” into “Juan Tama,” symbolizing Filipinos who make the right choices.

A key feature of the campaign is the GMA Masterclass: Be Juan Tama Conversation Series, which will visit universities nationwide in coordination with GMA Regional TV and Synergy, featuring Abunda, Tiu, and Dantes. For updates, viewers can visit the official websites and social media pages of GMA Network, Fast Talk with Boy Abunda, i-Bilib, and Amazing Earth

What keeps Arci Muñoz busy these days

By Nickie Wang

ACTRESS and singer Arci Muñoz is diversifying her career by expanding from acting and music into creative entrepreneurship with an international footprint.

The 36-year-old star, known for her fearless roles and versatility, has launched NDM Studios, a production company with offices in Japan, Taiwan, and Singapore. The production outfit is focused on producing original content, cross-cultural collaborations, and projects “that highlight Filipino talent on the global stage.”

Little did many people know, Arci is part of one of the country’s most prominent media families. She is related to Gilberto “Jimmy” Roy Duavit Jr. chairman emeritus and CEO of GMA Network Inc., and Rep. Michael John “Jack” Duavit, a network board member and seasoned lawmaker. The Duavit family has long played a key role in shaping Philippine televis ion.

Apart from her influence in entertainment, Arci was recently named a selection committee member and council representative for Miss Universe Egypt 2025. It adds to her growing portfolio as a cultural ambassador and advocate for women’s empowerment.

Arci also shared photos from a recent family gathering online, captioned “Little fam reunion,” showing her celebrating with members of the Duavit clan and fueling public interest in her ties to the prominent media family.

By Jasper Valdez

ANDRES Muhlach and Ashtine Olviga credited each other for their growth, both professionally and personally, sharing that their partnership goes beyond acting.

In a video posted by Viva Trending, the two answered fan questions about what they have learned from one another.

Muhlach said Olviga has influenced him not only at work but also in life. “She made me realize a lot of things,” he said. Olviga echoed his sentiments, saying Muhlach’s advice and wisdom have been valuable to her. “Marami rin akong natutunan sa kanya,” she added.

The pair also admitted they no longer get nervous filming romantic scenes together, having worked with each other multiple times.

They are set to star in Minamahal: 100 Bulaklak Para Kay Luna, which opens in cinemas on Sept. 24. Olviga shared that they attended workshops to prepare for the film, where she plays Luna, a strong and independent woman opposite Muhlach’s character, Raffy.

The two were first paired in the web series Mutya Ng Section E. In past interviews, Olviga praised Muhlach’s humility and professionalism, saying she admires both his character and talent.

Watch the video here: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=yFsPd8xUfJw

LOVE comes with a price in two new titles streaming on VMX—one a searing portrait of a woman’s fight for happiness, the other a hypnotic tale of obsession.

In Ligaya , director GB Sampedro casts Shiena Yu as a popular club entertainer who trades the nightlife for a simple, domestic life after falling in love with Elmer (Vince Rillon ). The two marry and plan to start a family, but Elmer insists she leave her job to avoid conflicts with other men.

Their marriage soon faces trouble. Elmer’s mother disapproves of their union, believing her son deserves someone with a “better” background. When Elmer loses his job, he refuses to let Ligaya work, calling it an affront to his manhood. Financial strain forces Ligaya to secretly return to work at an erotic club, driving a wedge between the couple. As tensions rise, the future of their relationship hangs on whether

they can overcome their struggles—or

From

Dingdong Dantes,

Abunda,

Tiu lead the ‘Be Juan Tama’

Shiena Yu (right) is a popular club entertainer in ‘Ligaya,’ who leaves her job for a domestic life after marrying Vince Rillon’s character Elmer

Andres Muhlach (left) and Ashtine Olviga credit each other for growth, both professionally and personally

stars Victor Relos, Chloe Jenna, and Rica Gonzales

Arci Muñoz has launched NDM Studios, a production company with offices in Japan, Taiwan, and Singapore

THURSDAY, AUGUST 28, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

C4 LIFE

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

By Angelica Villanueva

LONG known in the Philippines for its slimming solutions, slimming center Marie France is stepping into a new chapter that goes beyond weight loss. With the launch of Wonder Axon this August, the brand is redefining fitness and wellness as something accessible, sustainable, and designed “for every body.”

Wonder Axon is being introduced as a treatment that combines muscle building and body contouring.

More than just a new service, the innovation reflects the company’s broader shift toward promoting strength, capability, and confidence rather than a single ideal body type.

According to the company, the treatment makes use of three advanced technologies: Neuromuscular Stimulation, Electromagnetic Field, and Radio Frequency. Together, they aim to deliver up to 60,000 deep muscle

A workout without the sweat

New treatment combines muscle building

contractions

and abs.

By targeting these multiple areas, Wonder Axon is designed to replicate the benefits of a full-body workout without sweat, fatigue, or physical strain. It is positioned as

a supportive option for those who want to build strength but may not be able to take part in high-impact or strenuous exercise.

The company underscored that one of the treatment’s defining characteristics is its adaptability. Each session can be customized by clients to meet their specific goals,

DEMENTIA affects more than 57 million people globally, with nearly 10 million new cases each year, making it the seventh leading cause of death and a major contributor

lifestyle, and physical condition.

This enables the treatment to be applicable across diverse age groups and fitness levels, whether an individual is gradually reintroducing movement, recovering strength, or seeking additional support in an active lifestyle. For years, the slimming clinic

to disability among older adults, according to the World Health Organization. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for up to 70 percent of these cases.

In the Philippines, the condition takes a toll on patients and families alike, with most care provided at home due to limited formal services. Women bear a disproportionate burden, facing higher rates of disability and mortality while also serving as primary caregivers.

A proposed law in the House of Representatives—the Philippine Dementia and Alzheimer Care Policy (House Bill No. 185)—seeks to create a national program for early detection, treatment, and support. The measure’s progress in Congress coincides with the lead-up to World Alzheimer’s Day in September.

Health experts stress that while aging is the main risk factor, dementia is not inevitable. The WHO recommends regular exercise, a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, and maintaining healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels to lower the risk. Social interaction and mentally stimulating activities are also considered vital.

Nutrition plays a key role in maintaining brain function. Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and phospholipids help support nerve cell repair and cognitive performance. For Filipinos balancing work and caregiving, supplements can complement healthy eating habits.

LAC Neuro Protect, a supplement from LAC Philippines, contains plasmalogens from scallops. These compounds are similar to human brain phospholipids. The product also includes omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. It is taken as one daily capsule. It is not suitable for those with seafood allergies or for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

A holistic approach, incorporating early awareness, healthy habits, and nutrition, can support cognitive wellness.

has been associated with slimming treatments and noninvasive body programs, becoming a trusted name for generations of clients. But through the technology of Wonder Axon, it is now signaling a wider evolution. Instead of focusing only on size reduction, the company is embracing a more complete view of wellness. The shift is supported by teams of experts, nutritionists, therapists, and consultants who work together to design personalized, sustainable programs for clients.

It also shared that the newly launched service’s philosophy centers on the idea of being “stronger today, healthier tomorrow.” This message aligns with the rising cultural shift toward more realistic and inclusive perspectives on fitness and wellness. By framing strength and health as goals that transcend age, size, or body type, the company seeks to broaden its reach and respond to changing needs.

Wonder Axon is now available in all Marie France centers nationwide. Each treatment begins with a one-onone wellness assessment with clients to ensure sessions are both safe and effective, with settings adjusted to individual requirements.

With the introduction of Wonder Axon, Marie France is establishing itself as a collaborator in holistic health. The company now focuses on the idea that wellness is not solely about achieving a certain appearance or weight; it also involves enhancing strength, regaining confidence, and fostering long-term well-being.

Clients can book consultations or sessions at www. mariefrance.com.ph.

AS THE holiday season approaches, many are looking for ways to look and feel their best for festive gatherings. One of the simplest ways to get ready is by giving your skin a refresh. From clearing up dullness to tackling specific concerns like acne or dryness, a well-planned skincare routine can help you enter the ‘ber’ months with a radiant, confident glow.

Flawless Face and Body Clinic has launched its “Holiday Skin Refresh” promotion, offering bundled treatments and discounts ahead of the holiday season. The promo runs until Aug. 31 and includes three packages: the Clarifying Bundle (P1,999), which includes a regular facial, Rejuvelite, and an acnecontrol kit; the Age Reverse Bundle (P2,399), which adds a deep moisturizing serum and an age-defy kit; and the Brightening Bundle (P2,699), which includes a whitening kit.

Clients availing of any bundle will also receive a 50 percent discount on select services, including laser hair removal, warts treatment, peels, injectables, drips, and fractional needling therapy.

A one-day online promotion, the “Lucky 24 Online Buzz Special,” offered an additional P240 discount on Aug. 24 for customers who liked and shared the promo post on the clinic’s Facebook page.

“The holiday season is a time for celebration, and we believe it starts with feeling confident in your own skin,” Chris Borjal

Actor Polo Ravales undergoes Wonder Axon, a customizable session tailored to different fitness goals and lifestyles

Model Brent Javier joins the launch of Wonder Axon, highlighting Marie France’s shift toward strength, capability, and confidence

Holistic wellness coach Paulyn Quiza tries out Wonder Axon, Marie France’s new treatment combining muscle building and body contouring