Manila Standard - 2025 September 4 - Thursday

House leaders to ask Speaker to return 2026 NEP to DBM

By Maricel V. Cruz and Charles Dantes

HOUSE leaders led by Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno have agreed to ask House Speaker Martin Romualdez to return the proposed P6.793-trillion 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP) to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

DOJ issues lookout order vs. contractors

Immigration order also covers DPWH execs

By Pot Chavez, Vito Barcelo, Darwin Amojelar, Ram Superable, Maricel Cruz and Joel Zurbano

THE Department of Justice has issued an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) against officials DPWH officials and private contractors involved in substandard or even “ghost” flood control projects.

The ILBO signed by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla covered those in the request made by Senator Rodante Marcoleta, DOJ spokesperson Asec. Mico Clavano said in a text message. Clavano said a separate ILBO will be issued today (Thursday) based on the separate request made by Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon. (See list on page 2) Among the DPWH officials listed in Marcoleta’s ILBO requests dated Aug. 27 and 28 were Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral, Ramon Arriola III, Luz Dela Rosa, Gerard Opulencia, Roseller Tolentino, Jayson Jauco and Norberto Santos.

According to them, a review of the proposed NEP showed “serious and systemic” flaws, particularly in the al-

locations for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Department of Agriculture (DA). Puno said the decision was made during a ‘very lengthy’ meeting of House party leaders. Meanwhile, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the DBM and the DPWH) to thoroughly review

Marcos calls on LGUs to put an end to entrenched wrong practices

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. yesterday called on newlyelected officials of the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP) to lead

efforts in strengthening governance, fighting corruption, and improving delivery of public services.

Speaking at the oath-taking of LPP officers in Malacañan Palace, President Marcos urged provincial leaders

to become the “guides, voices, and consciences” of their constituents as the country pursues reforms under the Bagong Pilipinas campaign.

“Now, more than ever, the Philippines needs your leadership to put an end to en-

trenched wrong practices,” he said. “Serve the people with integrity, ensure projects are in order, and expose anything that goes against public interest,” the President added.

THE Bureau of Customs is training its guns next on the lavish properties – including private yachts, helicopters, and airplanes – of other contractors of floodcontrol projects amid allegations of substandard or even “ghost” projects.

“We are not singling out the Discaya family. It just so happened the search warrant (on their luxury cars) was the first to be approved,” Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said.

A total of 14 luxury vehicles of the Discayas – 12 of which were covered by a search warrant – have been secured as of yesterday morning even as the BOC continues to look for more high-end cars. Nepomuceno said the bureau will look at whether other contractors paid the proper taxes and duties for their high-end assets.

“We will ensure their assets have the proper documents, and no provision of the Anti-Smuggling Law was violated,” he said.

He said the bureau will also not stop with securing just 14 cars of the Discaya couple.

“They admitted to owning 28. So at the minimum, we will run after 28. But still we won’t stop at 28 because there might be more,” Nepomuceno said.

BOC chief of staff Jek Casipit said the 12 luxury cars of the Discaya cou-

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Commission on Audit (COA) had already identified questionable flood control projects as early as 2016, yet many of its findings were left unaddressed, allowing irregularities to persist until they exploded into the multibillion-peso scandal now under investigation by several government bodies.

House Deputy Majority Leader and Manila Rep. Ernesto Dionisio Jr. led the exchange with COA Auditor Tracy Ann Sunico in a recent public hearing, pointing out that if ghost projects exist today, they may have been rooted in

irregularities long ignored from previous years.

Sunico confirmed that COA had long observed red flags in flood control projects, consolidating the findings across the country.

She pointed to 2016 as the earliest year she had personally reviewed the documents. One irregularity she cited was “the fact that there were many bidders who did not declare all of their lists of ongoing projects in their financial and technical documents.”

“There was also an observation that the same key personnel were assigned to the contractors’ simultaneous projects,

Palace dismisses Imee’s crystal ball ruminations

By Charles Dantes

MALACANANG yesterday downplayed Senator Imee Marcos’ claim that appointing Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla as Ombudsman would be part of a supposed plot to jail Vice President Sara Duterte before the 2028 presidential elections. In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro dismissed Imee’s conspiracy theory, comparing it to “predictions from a crystal ball” which should be “recalibrated” to reflect evidence rather than speculation.

“Where can I buy or what manufacturer makes Senator

THUMBS UP. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez joins fellow officers and members of the Lakas-CMD Party in flashing the thumbsup sign when they posed for a group photo following a lunch meeting yesterday at the social hall of the Speaker’s office in the House of Representatives. Ver Noveno

LIGHT MOMENT. President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. banters with officials of the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP) after their oath-taking ceremony yesterday in Malacanang. In his speech, the President acknowledged the support of the 82 provincial governments in the government’s programs in digitalization, agriculture, and disaster response. He also ordered the effective implementation of Zero Balance Billing in DOH facilities in their respective areas.

‘Vote buying swayed 2025 polls’

By Katrina Manubay

AMAJORITY of Filipino adults (71%) believed that vote buying influenced the outcome of the May 2025 elections, according to a survey conducted by OCTA Research Group.

In a Tugon ng Masa (TMN) Survey, results showed that most adult Filipinos (62%) reported that they neither experienced nor personally knew of any incident of vote buying during the May 2025 elections.

However, among Filipinos who re -

ported experiencing or personally knowing of an actual incident of vote buying, influence is highest in Metro Manila (86%) and Balance Luzon (81%), compared to the Visayas (66%) and Mindanao (61%).

The survey also revealed that in most

ple covered by the search warrant have no import entry documents, noting that the estimated value of the vehicles could be over P100 million.

However, the Discayas’ lawyer, Cornelio Samaniego III, said none of the vehicles were imported.

“The Discaya spouses have not imported any vehicle – all were locally purchased and registered. Those 12 luxury cars – LTO won’t register that if those had tax dues,” Samaniego said.

He said the vehicles were legally purchased through car dealers.

“Nothing prohibits anyone from buying these kinds of expensive vehicles. None,” Samaniego added.

Samaniego also addressed the revelation of Senator Jinggoy Estrada that the Discayas’ car fleet at one point reached 80 cars, saying some have already been sold over the years.

“We will double check. I spoke with Sir Curlee (Discaya) and he said some of the cars that were sold in previous years – the buyers may have not yet transferred the assets to their names,” the lawyer said. Vito Barcelo

schools with similar cases.

At a Senate hearing last year, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian said that more than 19,000 “ghost” or undocumented students were benefitting from the voucher program, citing the 2016 and 2018 reports from the Commission on Audit (COA).

Last March, the Department of Education said it had terminated the participation of 55 schools in its senior high school voucher program amid allegations of “ghost students.” DepEd Government Assistance and Subsidies Service Project Manager III Atty. Tara Rama made the revelation during a briefing of the House Committee on Basic Education and Culture.

Rama was asked by Kabataan Party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel on the exact figure of alleged “ghost students” under the voucher program.

“For that specific number, I cannot give the exact figure because there are four categories of so-called ghost students. And at the same time, though we already had a number of schools that were terminated, starting in February 2023, those schools had different findings,” Rama said.

“There are different amounts involved and different numbers of students. We can provide you with the exact number later. But currently that is the situation, and at the same time we still have ongoing investigations,” she added.

the proposed P6.793-trillion 2026 national budget to identify and strike out alleged questionable insertions and duplicate projects.

“The President and the DBM will study this carefully. If there are duplications or insertions, they should be removed through errata,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro told reporters Wednesday.

“The DPWH and DBM will review

regions, there is no knowledge of votebuying incidents, with the exceptions being the Cordillera Administrative Region (13%), Negros Island Region (44%), and various areas in Mindanao, which reported figures between 17% and 47%.

This suggests that the strong consensus in such regions highlights areas where transactional politics are deeply tied to perceptions of electoral legitimacy.

Meanwhile, the weaker perceptions in other regions underscore a fragmented national picture in which the influence of vote buying is recognized but not uniformly felt.

According to OCTA Research, many Filipinos who encounter vote buying see it as altering election outcomes, posing a direct challenge to the legitimacy of elections and the deepening of democracy.

The face-to-face survey was conducted from July 12 to 17, 2025, with 1,200 respondents aged 18 and above.

This survey has a ±3% margin of error at a 95% confidence level. Subnational estimates for the geographic areas covered in the survey have the following margins of error at a 95% confidence level: ±6% for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Palace open to Chiz’s infra negative list proposal

By Charles Dantes

MALACAÑANG yesterday said it

welcomed Senate President Chiz Escudero’s proposal for the government to draw up a “negative list” of infrastructure projects that should not be funded under next year’s national budget.

PCO Undersecretary Claire Castro

Also included were Henry Alcantara, a former district engineer allegedly linked to “ghost” flood control projects in Bulacan, and district engineer Brice Ericson Hernandez.

Some 20 individuals from various contractors involver in questionable projects were also listed.

For his part, Dizon, in his letter sent to Remulla yesterday, said: “The timely issuance of an ILBO is of utmost necessity to enable the current investigations to proceed without delay and to hold these liable accountable to the Filipino people.”

Remulla acknowledged the time-sensitive nature of the request and the very real possibility that those involved are

said the suggestion would help ensure transparency and prevent questionable insertions in the spending plan.

“His suggestion is welcome. As the President earlier announced, the Department of Budget and Management and the Department of Public Works and Highways have been directed to scrutinize projects that may have been

flight risks.

“The tendency of people is to really run away at the earliest opportunity... All of them are DPWH employees and some are contractors,” the Justice chief said.

Meanwhile, the lawyer of the Discayas, Cornelio Samaniego III, said the couple will not flee the country amid the ILBO.

“We respect that. For us, as long as there is no hold departure order, the lookout bulletin is just administrative, but we respect the process that the government is doing,” he said.

“They’re just at home. They’re happy that we’ve come out a little bit. We used to be quiet for a long time. We were just wait

ing for the Senate inquiry to start before we spoke because we didn’t want to be told that we went ahead with the media.”

“This is the time for us to face everyone,” Samaniego added.

inserted,” Castro said.

“These need to be studied and evaluated to determine if the concerns are valid,” she added. Escudero also urged Malacañang to declare a moratorium on new flood control projects in 2026, noting that billions of pesos from the 2025 budget have yet to be spent.

As this developed, Dizon said he will also order a halt to all ongoing bidding for locally funded flood control projects across the country due to corruption issues within the DPWH.

“I will order today a pause to all the ongoing bidding of all locally funded projects nationwide because we need to first review and study based on the President’s directive to clean the house,” he said.

“The President does not want any more money from the government –from the DPWH – thrown in the river,” he added. However, foreign-assisted projects will continue, Dizon said.

“We are confident that (foreign-funded projects) will be done because the foreign funders are watching,” he said.

“I’m giving our new team two weeks maximum so we can put safeguards in place here in the process,” Dizon added.

The ILBO request of Dizon covers the following DPWH executives and contractors:

• OIC - Assistant Regional Director Henry C. Alcantara

• OIC - District Engineer Brice Ericson D. Hernandez

• OIC - Assistant District Engineer Jaypee D. Mendoza

• Engineer Ernesto C. Galang, Planning and Design Section

• Engineer John Michael E. Ramos, Construction Section

• Engineer Norberto L. Santos, Quality Assurance and Hydrology Section

• Engineer Jaime R. Hernandez, Maintenance Section

• Floralyn Y. Simbulan, Administrative Section

• Juanito C. Mendoza, Finance Section

• Engineer Benedict J. Matawaran, Procurement Unit

• Alex H. Abelido, President, Legacy Construction Corporation

• Cezarah C. Discaya and Pacifico F. Discaya, President of Alpha & Omega General Contractor and Development Corp.

• Ma. Roma Angeline D. Rimando, Owner/Manager, St. Timothy Construction Corporation

• Allan B. Quirante, Owner/Proprietor, QM Builders

and their equipment were the same,” Sunico noted.

The COA auditor detailed how discrepancies between official reports and on-theground inspections were common. For Dionisio, these revelations underscored how longstanding the problems were.

Sunico responded that the amounts involved were massive and documented. She also mentioned that since 2016, they have released lists of notices of charges, suspensions, and disallowances of state-funded projects amounting to P120 billion.

Dionisio then asked COA to turn over

everything to determine if projects are genuinely duplicated or just different phases of the same program,” she added.

Castro explained that the issue surfaced after lawmakers raised red flags on certain flood control projects. Some may appear identical on paper, she said, but could actually represent different stages of ongoing infrastructure programs.

The review will separate legitimate phased projects from questionable duplications, Castro said.

“We cannot, in good conscience, begin deliberations on a national budget that is riddled with questionable alloca-

• Erni G. Baggao, Owner/Proprietor, EGB Construction Corporation

• Eumir S. Villanueva, President, Topnotch Catalyst Builders, Inc.

• Lawrence R. Lubiano, President, Centerways Construction and Development, Inc.

• Aderma Angelie D. Alcazar, President/CEO, Sunwest Inc.

• Edgar S. Acosta, President, Hi-Tone Construction and Development Corp.

• Wilfredo M. Natividad, Owner/General Manager, Triple 8 Construction & Supply, Inc.

• Romeo C. Miranda, President, Royal Crown Monarch Construction & Supplies Corp.

• Mark Allan V. Arevalo, General Manager, Wawao Builders

• Marjorie O. Samidan, Authorized Managing Officer, MG Samidan Construction

• Luisito R. Tiqui, President, L.R. Tiqui Builders, Inc.

• Ryan Willie D. Uy, Proprietor, Road Edge Trading & Development Services

the complete set of findings to aid the committee’s ongoing investigation. Sunico agreed to provide the documents.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s investigation into anomalous flood control projects has exposed contractors allegedly linked to ghost projects as far back as 2016, Malacañang said.

Presidential Communications Office

Undersecretary Claire Castro said Sen. Ronald dela Rosa confirmed that the Discaya group had long been involved in flood control contracts and was allegedly behind several ghost projects revealed during the ongoing probe.

“Because of this investigation, it was revealed and confirmed by Senator Bato dela Rosa that the Discayas have been

tions,” Puno said.

“The House owes it to the Filipino people to ensure that every peso is allocated properly, transparently, and free of corruption. At this point, the 2026 NEP falls short of that standard,” he stressed. Puno, chairman of the National Unity Party (NUP), was joined by Deputy Speakers Janette Garin (Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats) and Bambi Emano (Nacionalista Party), and Reps. Mark Enverga (Nationalist People’s Coalition), Eleandro Jesus Madrona (NP), Manila Rep. Rolan Valeriano (NUP), and Jose Alvarez (NPC).

Mr. Marcos said he understood the crucial role of local governments in responding to challenges, from droughts to natural disasters.

He lauded the LPP for backing digitization efforts that streamlined government processes and reduced fixers.

Mr. Marcos also highlighted achievements in agriculture, citing cooperation with provinces in making rice more affordable and ensuring subsidies reach farmers. But he stressed that more work remains, particularly in monitoring projects and ensuring transparency in spending.

He pointed to the administration’s flagship Zero Balance Billing program, now covering 78 Department of Health hospitals, which allows patients in basic ward accommodations to receive care without paying out-of-pocket.

The chief executive said he hopes local government-run hospitals would adopt the same system to ease the burden on poor families.

The President also encouraged the use of technology, including artificial intelligence and data analytics, to improve frontline services across provinces.

Since its creation in 1987, the LPP has served as a collective voice of governors nationwide.

Mr. Marcos said he expects the group to remain a symbol of unity and partnership with the national government.

entrenched in flood control projects since 2016 and are allegedly involved in ghost projects,” Castro told reporters.

Castro added that the findings underscore how corruption in infrastructure projects predated Marcos’ term, noting that some flagged projects were implemented in 2018 and 2021.

She said President Marcos was the first Philippine president to initiate such a large-scale probe into questionable projects, even if it could implicate his own administration.

Mr. Marcos ordered the creation of an independent presidential commission to conduct a sweeping probe into questionable infrastructure projects earlier this year, following a series of inspections

At a news conference, they said they were disappointed over the NEP as submitted by the DBM, which does not reflect President’s desire to get rid of alleged insertions that do not come from Congress.

“We don’t want to be blamed here,” Puno said. referring to the alleged insertions by the Executive department.

Garin said Congress would have a hard time exercising its oversight function with the Executive’s poorly crafted national budget proposal marked by questionable insertions.

Among the alleged unacceptable insertions in the NEP were allotments

Imee’s crystal ball, because it might be better to recalibrate it so that Senator Imee doesn’t just pick up rumors, but stories that have evidence?” Castro said.

Castro said the senator’s remarks raised more questions than answers, stressing that the Ombudsman must remain an independent body tasked to pursue cases when warranted.

“Is she implying that whoever is appointed Ombudsman should avoid filing cases against the Dutertes, their friends, and allies?” Castro asked.

“If there’s no wrongdoing, then there’s nothing to fear. The Ombudsman’s independence is precisely to ensure justice, not protection of political allies,” she added.

Asked about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s reaction to Imee’s remarks, Castro noted that the Chief Executive refrains from making negative statements about his sister.

During the last day of the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) public panel interviews, Remulla gave assurance that the Office of the Ombudsman will not be used as a “political weapon” if he is appointed to head the state prosecution agency.

where he personally flagged unfinished or non-existent flood control works.

The President has repeatedly said the investigation aims to expose entrenched corruption in the DPWH, a department long criticized for irregular contracts and so-called “ghost projects.” Malacañang on Wednesday meanwhile pushed back against Vice President Sara Duterte’s remarks questioning President Marcos’ investigation into alleged corruption in the government’s infrastructure projects.

Duterte earlier said the probe was unnecessary “zarzuela,” claiming that if Mr. Marcos were serious, he could identify those behind budget irregularities “in just one day,” instead of dragging out the process.

for flood-control projects with identical amounts totalling tens of billions of pesos, suggesting templated or copypaste budgeting; double appropriations and line items funding projects already completed; oversized lump-sum “nationwide” allocations under DPWH that undermine transparency and hinder proper scrutiny; reports of unsolicited proposals for billions worth of firearms under the DILG/PNP, opening the door to insertions outside the President’s original submission; and reports of “allocation-for-sale” schemes in the DA’s budget for farm-to-market roads.

P20b not enough for zero balance billing program—Bam

By Ram Superable

SENATOR Bam Aquino on Wednesday urged the government to increase funding for the Zero Balance Billing program to expand healthcare access for more Filipinos.

(DBCC) that P20 billion is required to implement the program under the 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP).

“I find 20 billion relatively low, be-

cause if it is only 20 billion, that means we could have achieved it maybe three or four years ago,” Aquino said.

According to him, the Zero Balance Billing scheme is designed to ensure patients can be admitted to hospitals without paying out-of-pocket expenses. He stressed that the program should not be limited to a small segment of society but should be a dependable option for Filipinos seeking hospital care.

“How much is needed for the majority of Filipinos to be able to experience

Zero Balance Billing in our hospitals? Maybe what we will slash from other budgets will be enough to fund that,” Aquino said. The lawmaker then pressed government agencies to present a more comprehensive proposal that would cover additional sectors beyond the currently identified beneficiaries.

He proposed a three- to five-year plan that would increase funding annually until the program reaches full implementation.

DSWD cites ‘Walang Gutom’ gains as program expands

By Charles Dantes

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Wednesday reported significant improvements in reducing hunger among families enrolled in its flagship “Walang Gutom” program, citing results from an independent tracking survey.

Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian said the program, launched in 2023 under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to end hunger, now covers 300,000 food-poor families

and is on track to expand to 600,000 by year-end and 750,000 by mid-2026.

“We made sure this program is datadriven,” Gatchalian said in a briefing in Malacañang. “Independent surveys show that hunger is declining among beneficiaries, which means the program is working and should be scaled up.”

According to the Social Weather Stations (SWS), hunger incidence among beneficiaries dropped from 48.7 percent in October 2024 to 41.5 percent in March this year, a 7.2 percentage point decline.

Hontiveros pushing for specialty hospital for senior citizens

By Ram Superable

SENATOR Risa Hontiveros on Wednesday revealed that she is pushing for the creation of a specialty hospital for senior citizens to improve their access to ageappropriate healthcare.

“It will be a great relief for our grandparents to have a specialized hospital focused on their health. Our seniors need specialized care that is often inaccessible to them because health centers and public hospitals lack the necessary resources and facilities,” she said.

The Philippine Geriatric Center Act, also known as Senate Bill No. 1302, aims to upgrade the National Center for Geriatric Health in San Miguel, Manila, into a tertiary specialty hospital for the elderly.

Gatchalian said the results confirm that government interventions are directly improving food security. He also underscored the importance of private sector partnerships with firms that funded the surveys to validate the program’s outcomes.

“Our mandate from the President is to eradicate hunger, and with the evidence we now have, we will continue expanding until all identified food-poor families are reached,” Gatchalian said.

He added that the program carries

built-in sustainability mechanisms to ensure long-term impact. Beneficiaries undergo nutrition education sessions to learn about affordable and healthy diets, while productivity programs connect them to job fairs organized by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and skills training offered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

“The idea is that once families exit the program, they have the knowledge to eat right and the means to earn a steady income,” Gatchalian said.

IN BRIEF

No Filipinos injured in Afghanistan quake

THE Philippine Embassy in Islamabad, which has jurisdiction over Afghanistan, reported that there were no Filipino casualties or injuries following the magnitude 6.0 earthquake that struck eastern Afghanistan on August 31, 2025.

In a statement released Wednesday, the embassy said the provinces of Kunar, Nangarhar, and Laghman were the most severely affected by the tremor.

“The Philippine Embassy is currently aware of seven Filipino nationals in Afghanistan, all of whom are based in or around Kabul, and none are located in Jalalabad or Nangarhar Province,” the statement said.

It added that embassy officials had already established contact with several Filipinos in Kabul and were continuing efforts to verify the status of the remaining individuals. Reports said the quake injured at least 2,800 people and killed nearly 800, with its epicenter located about 27 kilometers northeast of Jalalabad. Katrina Manubay PAL ight returns over pressurization

A

The proposed hospital will provide comprehensive medical services and support scientific research on the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, care, rehabilitation, and relief of diseases affecting seniors.

Hontiveros said the initiative will ensure that elderly Filipinos across the country can access specialized care that is often unavailable in local health centers and public hospitals. The bill also calls for the establishment of regional geriatric centers to extend healthcare services to seniors outside the capital.

“It will serve as a means to address the shortage of doctors, nurses, officers, social workers, barangay health workers, and other medical and technical personnel in caring for the health of the elderly,” she assured.

APPROVED. The Commission on Appointments, led by Senate President Francis G. Escudero, approves the appointments of 24 foreign service o cials

Poe ags zero budget for tourism road infra projects

REPRESENTATIVE Brian Poe of FPJ Panday Bayanihan Partylist, vice chair of the House Committee on Appropriations, on Tuesday urged the government to allocate more funds for tourism road infrastructure, warning that continued neglect could stall the country’s domestic tourism momentum.

At the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) budget briefing in Quezon City, Poe pointed out that while tourism accounted for 8.9 percent of the Philippines’ GDP in 2024, poor connectivity remains a major obstacle.

“It takes about six hours to get to Hundred Islands from Manila,” Poe said. “Two and a half hours of that is just Urdaneta to Alaminos—and that’s because we don’t have enough road infrastructure to ease the traffic burden within Pangasinan.”

The lawmaker noted that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has no dedicated alloca-

tion for tourism roads, despite the sector’s outsized contribution to the economy. He pressed his colleagues in Congress to act decisively on the matter.

Tourism officials backed the call, saying that accessibility is vital in sustaining growth. In 2024, the sector generated ₱3.86 trillion in tourism expenditures, with domestic travelers contributing ₱3.16 trillion, according to the DOT. Poe added that infrastructure shortfalls continue to frustrate both tourists and locals.

“What is easily addressable—and receives zero funding—is our road infrastructure leading to our beautiful beaches and destination locations,” he said. “If we can support the DOT in creating more meaningful infrastructure, I believe we should do so, and I hope they won’t forget Pangasinan.”

The senator made the call after the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) told the Development Budget Coordination Committee

UNWAVERING FAITH. Churchgoers at Baclaran light candles in the candle chapel as a way to o er prayers, express thanksgiving, and show unwavering faith to Mary, seeking her guidance and assistance. Richmond Chi

Rep. Brian Poe

OPAPRU cites gains of 1996 peace agreement with MNLF

IN BRIEF

PBBM names veteran lawyer as HSAC chief

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed veteran lawyer Maria Victoria Reyes-Beltran as executive commissioner of the Human Settlement Adjudication Commission (HSAC).

“This appointment is an opportunity to reinforce HSAC’s position as a trusted institution in human settlement adjudication, where decisions are guided by both the law and the greater public good,” Beltran said. She vowed to keep tuned to the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling’s eight-point agenda to fast track housing dispute resolutions, streamline processes, embrace digitalization and strengthen transparency to support the administration’s housing goals.

Meanwhile, the HSAC has adopted its own four-point agenda anchored on speed, accountability and digital shift , focused on the resolution of pending appeals, local government unit partnership for ground-level enforcement, digitalization through enhanced case management, and harmonization through the Iissuance of the 2025 HSAC revised rules of procedure. Rio N. Araja

Aussie financier lends $3m to Pinoy SMEs

THE Australian Development Investments (ADI) has provided a $3-million (₱172 million) loan to ARQ SME Finance to support small businesses in the Philippines. Australian ambassador to Manila Marc Innes-Brown PSM said the loan was ADI’s first impact investment in the Philippines.

“The Philippines is home to extraordinary Filipina entrepreneurs—but many face barriers when they seek funds to grow their businesses. Australia is proud to partner with ARQ to help create more business opportunities for women and build economic growth that benefits women and men alike,” he said.

The fund aims to expand capital available for Philippine businesses committed to greater gender equality in leadership, workforce, supply chains, and human resources management. Katrina Manubay

La Union gov’t hosts sign language seminar

THE provincial government of La Union (PGLU, in partnership with the La Union Association of the Deaf (LUAD), sponsored a three-day disability sensitivity and sign language training for frontline service providers held last Aug.25–27. The seminar aimed to develop the capability of government employees to effectively communicate and engage with the deaf community. La Union Gov. Mario

By Rex Espiritu

THE government on Wednesday observed the 29th year of the signing of the 1996 peace agreement with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), highlighting the gains of nearly three decades of peace-building efforts in Mindanao.

In his message, Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. described the accord as a “historic milestone” under the Comprehensive Philippine Peace Process, noting how it paved the way for the transformation of the MNLF combatants into “peaceful and productive members of society.”

“The peace agreement’s implementation over the years has led to the

successful transition of our MNILF brothers and sisters from former combatants into peaceful and productive members of society and their areas into zones of peace and development.” Galvez said.

He added that the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) remained committed to supporting the socioeconomic needs of MNLF

members and their families through its Transformation Program and other peace-building initiatives carried out in partnership with stakeholders.

Galvez gave assurance that the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is determined to honor the national government’s commitments under the agreement, as well as other Bangsamoro peace pacts.

“Amidst the many challenges we face in our peace journey, we must remain focused, determined, and united as we move forward towards achieving our shared vision: a just and lasting peace for our nation,” Galvez said.

The commemoration coincided with the observance of National Peace Consciousness Month, with the theme “Mapayapang Bukas, Abot-Kamay sa Bagong Pilipinas.

BANGSAMORO interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua has called on the people to safeguard the gains of peace in Mindanao, as he declared there would be no more armed conflict in the South.

“Never again to war, never again to division,” Macacua stressed.

The chief minister delivered the message at the start of this year’s National Peace Consciousness Month on September 1, asserting that peace is a shared responsibility among Muslims, Christians, and indigenous peoples.

“The ringing of the Peace Bell is more than a ceremony. It is a reminder of the Bangsamoro people’s deepest dream: to live in peace, with dignity, and with justice,” Macacua said.

He emphasized that while the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has made significant progress in improving the lives of its people, sustaining these gains requires vigilance and unity.

He adverted to the upcoming 2025 BARMM parliamentary elections as a “crucial step in ensuring that the region’s political future reflects the will of its people.”

The BARMM polls are largely regarded as a milestone in the Bangsamoro peace process anchored on the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) signed between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The CAB paved the way for the BARMM and its interim parliament, while the normalization process enabled the decommissioning of MILF combatants, the disbandment of private armed groups, and grant of socio-economic assistance to former MILF fighters and their families.

Macacua said these reforms have resulted in greater peace and stability across the region, giving rise to improvements in poverty reduction, job creation, and local investments. Rex Espiritu

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE House of Representatives’ Committee on Justice on Wednesday launched an inquiry to revisit Presidential Decree No. 1069, or the Philippine Extradition Law of 1977, citing the need to strengthen the country’s extradition process in light of rising cross-border crimes and recent high-profile cases.

Batangas 2nd District Rep. Gerville Luistro, chair of the panel, said the inquiry seeks to modernize a law that has served the Philippines for nearly five decades and has become outmoded and unresponsive to present day challenges.

“Extradition is an indispensable tool in the global fight against impunity. It ensures that our country will never be a haven for fugitives or an obstacle to

justice sought by our treaty partners,” Luistro said in her opening statement.

She cautioned however, that even as the overhaul of the extradition law was necessary, reforms must also ensure the protection of individual rights.

“We must also make sure that our processes safeguard due process, protect constitutional rights and uphold our obligations under international law,” Luistro said.

The inquiry comes as the Philippines handles the potential extradition of controversial televangelist Apollo Quiboloy, who faces criminal charges in the country and a pending extradition request from the United States.

Quiboloy and his henchmen were indicted in California on charges of sex trafficking, fraud, and bulk cash smuggling.

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Wednesday deported 49 South Korean fugitives wanted for various crimes in their country in keeping with a presidential directive to purge undesirable aliens at the home front.

The group was shipped out through the Ninoy Aquino International Airport as arranged by the BI’s deportation and implementation unit (DIU) in coordination with the South Korean embassy. The deportees consisted of six women and 43 men. All were sent back to Korea after being tagged by their government as fugitives from justice.

“Most of those deported faced cases of fraud in South Korea,” BI Commissioner Joel Viado said

“We are grateful for the strong partnership with the South Korean government to make sure that these criminals be returned to their home country to face justice,” he added.

Viado said that the decongestion of the BI’s holding facility, as well as the speedy deportation of illegal aliens, remains a priority of his administration. Among those deported was Choi Hojun, 36, who was arrested by agents of the BI fugitive search in Angeles City, Pampanga last April 14. Choi is wanted in South Korea as the alleged leader of a cybercrime syndicate with expansive operations covering multiple countries including the Philippines and China. Their criminal organization reportedly mustered a total of KRW 1.7 billion by illegally accessing sensitive information, particularly the banking data of some 200 victims. Vito Barcelo

YOUTHS JOIN FIGHT VS. CORRUPTION. Various youth groups in Quezon City join the snowballing mass sentiment against massive corruption in the bureaucracy, principally triggered the flood control mess. Danny Pata

Tondo, Manila, meant to

OPINION

Systematic has become systemic

WHEN corruption goes unpunished through years and years of praxis, infecting almost every agency of government, and when even the institutions supposed to be guardians of morality are desensitized, then systematic becomes systemic. Beyond acceptance, there is a resignation to what is now considered as the “new normal.”

Manhid na ang sambayanan; tanggap na.

Let us begin with the way we choose our public leaders. Many sell their votes; others are enamored by celebrity status, without checking competence or character. In Bisaya, especially in Mindanao where vote-buying began in the early sixties, “mao man gihapon. Dawat na lang kita og alindahaw.” (They are all the same; let’s just get showered with their leavings).

Thus, the elected leaders feel that since they “paid” their way to election, they can do as they please. Worsened by a three-year electoral cycle, they recoup their “investment” as soon as they are in power, and prepare for the next election financed by kickbacks.

When their Constitutionally-imposed term limits are up, without any proscription on family dynasties, they pass on their positions to wife, trusted brother, son or daughter, thus perpetuating their hold on power.

Public service becomes private property; position is passed on like “pamana.”

Corrupt politicians, contractors, agency officials and their “mavens” then engage in conspicuous consumption, their families flaunting ill-gotten wealth, and the public even finds their parvenu proclivities entertaining rather than disgusting.

This situation is what has gradually enveloped our politics since the 1987 Constitution was hastily passed and ratified by the people without enough comprehension.

We were reacting to almost 14 years of authoritarian rule. We thought that by merely restoring the forms of democracy, social and economic development would occur.

Yet, despite 39 years under the 1987 Constitution, more have been consigned to poverty. Public order is an illusion. Public services are optics. The quality of life has deteriorated, except for the corrupt and their support system.

The institution that was once called the Fourth Estate – media – has largely been silenced, not by fear, but by purchase, save for some courageous few who raise their voices or write their opinions whether in traditional or social media.

Once in a while, church leaders speak out. They spoke against the archiving of the impeachment articles against the vice president, but few have spoken against far more massive corruption that drains the public till, bury the next generation in debt, and even kill people who drown in floods. Cardinal Ambo David is an outstanding exception.

Remember the Pajero bishops whom GMA “fixed”? I miss the likes of Arch-

bishop Oscar Cruz who, if alive, would have abjured the POGO’s, the PIGO’s, just as he fought jueteng and the corruption attendant to it.

Legislators have become more brazen. They demand bigger “cuts of flesh” from the budget which for three years the president did not even notice.

Now that he has raised hackles, people wonder if words will mercifully turn into action, jaded as they have been by the “new normal” and the culture of impunity.

LGU officials, especially those who come from dynasties headed by legislators, spend revenues augmented by IRA’s in graft-laden small projects, to include padded beautification and street lighting projects, extravagant fiestas and celebrations which local church leaders even bless.

(Political surgery) can come through a change of government by a well-purposed military, the ‘protectors of the people,’ though fraught with unpredictable dangers

The justice system is broken, from policemen turned accomplices of criminal syndicates, to prosecutors and judges who bend the law when the price is right.

Systematic corruption has become normal in a dysfunctional system.

Friends have said that perhaps we should teach young students early on about honor and the guiding principles of good and upright citizenship.

We should, but the rot has metastasized, with even SK leaders aping their corrupt elders. And values education takes time to take root.

Strong political will by a determined leader can fight systematic corruption, but for systemic corruption, we need political surgery.

That can come through a change of government by a well-purposed military, the “protectors of the people,” though fraught with unpredictable dangers.

The other way is to revise the 1987 Constitution, which though filled with salutary social justice provisions, has nurtured a political system that makes it easy for the political and economic elite to perpetuate their power at the expense of the many.

Still, who ought to spearhead such Constitutional revision?

Since we are led by those who have abused our trust, we cannot trust them to effect meaningful systemic change that would benefit the people instead of their lust for continued power.

Can we elect a new leader in 2028 who will initiate genuine systemic change?

Command responsibility

IT LOOKS like the doctrine of command responsibility has finally claimed its first senior government official in former DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan. He has resigned effective Sept. 1 to take responsibility for the flood control debacle. Whether this will satisfy those people demanding for his scalp is another matter. But judging from the way media is playing the story, it appears that they want more. There are now so many simultaneous investigations being planned or ongoing. Both chambers of Congress have started theirs together with the BuCor of all agencies. The Office of the Ombudsman is also about to start theirs.

All this when the OP is about to form a supposedly unbiased independent commission to investigate the issue. All these government agencies should stand down to give a chance for this commission to do its job.

PBBM when interviewed pointed to Command Responsibility as the reason for Manny Bonoan’s resignation.

But what really is this doctrine all about and does the good Secretary’s act of resigning satisfy the conditions enumerated in Executive Order 226 dated Feb. 17, 1995 for Command Responsibility to have been invoked?

The government actually knows the solutions but does not have the will to stop or at least minimize the problem of corruption

It is true that the head of any government agency is responsible for what goes on in that agency but there are elements to satisfy before pinning the entire blame on the head of agency or any subordinate unit head.

As a background, the doctrine of command responsibility found its beginnings

EDITORIAL

Protecting our northern flank

WITH the Philippine Navy’s brand-new forward operating base on strategic Batanes island near Taiwan, we are now in a better position to defend our northern flank.

The facility in Mahatao town will host Navy and Marine units under the Northern Luzon Naval Command tasked with securing the Luzon Strait.

This should provide a commanding lookout tower for the Philippines on our northern shores, particularly with the reported appearances in August of armed Chinese vessels in the Bashi Channel, a waterway that separates Taiwan and the Philippines, between Y’Ami Island of the Philippines and Orchid island or Lanyu of Taiwan.

Given the erratic situation between China and Taiwan, where there are more than 160,000 Overseas Filipino Workers, the operating base in Batanes should provide a breathing space for our officials who may have to launch quickly a shielded exodus for our countrymen

from the military because of the need to pinpoint responsibility when atrocities are committed in times of war.

Hence, the term first appeared during the series of London conferences that eventually codified it in The Hague Convention lV of 1907 dealing on the Laws and Customs of War on Land.

For us, EO 226 of 1995 came about after a series of cases related to illegal drugs involving some personnel from the PNP. Because of the difficulty of pinpointing those responsible, then PFVR issued the executive order to clearly define when and how the doctrine of command responsibility can be invoked.

There are two important features of the EO.

The first is that “any government official or officer of the PNP or that of any other law enforcement agency shall be held accountable for “Neglect of Duty” under the doctrine of command responsibility if he has knowledge that a crime or offense shall be committed or is being committed or has been committed by

working in Taiwan. Beyond doubt, the northern base will be a tactical fortress for our country’s security.

President Marcos Jr. recently pointed out that the country would be inevitably drawn into an all-out war between global superpowers

We need to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity with all our available resources

Beijing and Washington over Taiwan. China considers Taiwan as a renegade province and has not ruled out using force to bring the territory under its control.

his subordinates or by others within his area or responsibility and, despite such knowledge, he did not take preventive or corrective action either before, during or immediately after its commission.

The second is “there is presumption of knowledge in any of the following circumstance; when the irregularities or illegal acts are widespread within his area of jurisdiction and when members of his immediate staff or office personnel are involved.”

Whether the two conditions have been met in the case of former Secretary Bonoan is not that important because he accepted his responsibility and resigned.

The bigger issue now should be to find ways to completely eradicate the corrupt culture in the disbursements of public funds that has been allowed to flourish all these years.

For one, the DPWH is not the only culprit here. There is a lot of blame to go around like, for instance, the Commission on Audit and members of Congress. This includes private contractors who

Not unexpectedly, Beijing has slammed President Marcos’ statement as a gross violation of the ‘One-China’ policy that the two governments agreed upon when they established official diplomatic relations way back in 1975.

But the Philippine Navy’s decision to establish a forward operating base in Batanes is timely and appropriate as reports indicate that three China Coast Guard ships had been seen patrolling the eastern and western sides of the island-province last month. That the CCG vessels were monitored passing through the Bashi Channel has been described as a “very unusual” track.

The three ships are large and armed, possibly indicating a hidden agenda by Beijing to mobilize other naval and coast guard assets in the area as part of preparations to seize Taiwan by force in the future.

We need to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity with all our available resources.

And our Navy deserves credit for doing everything possible to achieve that objective even with limited resources at this point.

willingly colluded with government officials to steal government funds.

In last Monday’s initial Congressional hearings, instead focusing on the cars, the lawmakers should have tried to find out the responsible agency and officials that allowed the several Discaya companies to bid on projects against each other which was clearly a conflict of interest. But it was allowed. Whose fault was it? If the government officials were doing their jobs properly, that situation should not have occurred at all.

The unfortunate truth about all these hullabaloo is that the government actually knows the solutions but does not have the will to stop or at least minimize the problem.

The government can investigate all it wants but if there’s no will, there’s no way. Regrettably, corruption in our country has reached the point where no one is satisfied with a small kickback anymore. They want to steal almost everything. Propriety and moderation have simply completely disappeared.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Russia says still seeking int’l recognition for occupied Ukraine

MOSCOW – Russia is still seeking international recognition that parts of Ukraine annexed and occupied by its forces belong to Moscow as part of any peace deal, its foreign minister said in remarks published Wednesday. Ukraine has said it will never accept Russian control over any of its territory and has vowed to recover land seized by Moscow.

In Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday said Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is in Beijing meeting with the Chinese and North Korean leaders, was demonstrating his “impunity” with fresh strikes on Ukraine.

“Putin is showing his impunity. And this undoubtedly requires a response from the world. It is only due to the lack of sufficient pressure, primarily on Russia’s war economy, that this aggression continues,” Zelenskyy said ahead of meetings with officials from Baltic and Nordic countries in Denmark.

Russia claims to have annexed five Ukrainian regions -- Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, as well as the Crimean peninsula, which it seized in 2014.

“In order for a durable peace, the new territorial realities that arose... must be recognised and formalised in accordance with international law,” Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in remarks published by Moscow on Wednesday.

Who gets control of land captured by Russia in its offensive is a key sticking point in stalled peace talks between the two sides. AFP

IN BRIEF

2 Jesuits convicted of sex abuse cover up

LA PAZ, Bolivia – Two senior Jesuits in Bolivia were found guilty of covering up for a priest who admitted to sexually abusing dozens of minors decades ago, a victims association said Tuesday. Marcos Recolons and Ramon Alaix, Spanish priests now in their 80s, went on trial in 2023 under a complaint brought by former students of Juan XXIII School in the central city of Cochabamba.

It was there that Alfonso Pedrajas, a Spaniard who died in 2009, taught and worked as a spiritual counselor. Pedrajas kept a diary in which he wrote of abusing more than 80 children and adolescents in the 1970s and 80s. He said the two defendants knew of his behavior. The diary was made public in 2023.

A victims association welcomed the guilty verdict, which includes a one-year sentence.

“A door has opened to move toward the justice we had hoped for,” said Wilder Flores, a representative of the group. Because of their advanced age and the shortness of the prison term, the defendants will not be jailed. AFP

US appeals court blocks Trump’s deport move

WASHINGTON, DC – A US federal appeals court ruled Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila) against President Donald Trump’s use of a wartime law to deport alleged Venezuelan gang members and blocked its use in some southern states.

Trump first invoked the 1798 Alien Enemies Act on March 15 and flew two planeloads of alleged members of the Tren de Aragua gang to El Salvador’s notorious maximum security CECOT prison.

The centuries-old law -- last used to round up Japanese-American citizens during World War II -- has since been targeted in a series of legal challenges.

The Fifth US Circuit Court of Appeals delivered a 2-1 ruling on Tuesday saying Trump could not rely on the law to deport migrants in Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi. AFP

UN force slams Israeli drone attack

BEIRUT – The UN Interim Force in Lebanon said Wednesday that Israeli drones dropped four grenades near peacekeepers in “one of the most serious attacks” on its personnel since a November ceasefire.

“Yesterday morning, Israel Defense Forces drones dropped four grenades close to UNIFIL peacekeepers working to clear roadblocks hindering access to a UN position,” the UN force said, referring to Israel’s military.

“One grenade impacted within 20 meters and three within approximately 100 metres of UN personnel and vehicles,” it added.

“This is one of the most serious attacks on UNIFIL personnel and assets since the cessation of hostilities agreement of last November” which sought to end more than a year of hostilities between Israel and Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.

UNIFIL said the Israeli military had been informed in advance of its plans to carry out road clearance work near the de facto border southeast of the village of Marwahin. AFP

China ‘unstoppable,’ says Xi

BEIJING – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russia’s Vladimir Putin flanked Xi Jinping at a massive parade in Beijing on Wednesday, capping a week of diplomatic grandstanding by the Chinese president and his allies against the West.

In unprecedented scenes, Xi shook both their hands and chatted with the pair as they walked down a red carpet by Tiananmen Square, with Putin to Xi’s right and Kim to his left.

The 90-minute event, ostensibly to mark 80 years since the end of World War II, was a chance for Xi to put on an extravaganza to showcase China’s military prowess and bring together friendly leaders to send a message to the rest of the world.

Beijing lit up with pomp and pageantry on Wednesday at a massive parade showcasing China’s latest military hardware, watched by world leaders including North Korea’s Kim Jong Un and Russia’s Vladimir Putin.

Members of the public gathered from the crack of dawn at the capital’s Tiananmen Square, the entrance gate of the historic Forbidden City and the focus point of President Xi Jinping’s show of force to the

world. Guests posed with wide smiles for photos with their parade invitations against the backdrop of Tiananmen, which was adorned with national flags of China and thousands of red and green seats set up for the occasion.

Giant, golden numerals “1945” and “2025” were erected on the square, a reminder of the 80 years that had passed since the end of World War II.

Kicking off the parade, President Xi warned the world was still “faced with a choice of peace or war”, but said China was “unstoppable”.

The heavily choreographed event drew an acidic response from President Donald Trump who accused the three leaders of plotting against the United States.

MILITARY HARDWARE. YJ-19, China’s first operational hypersonic cruise missile, is seen during a military parade marking the 80th anniversary of victory over Japan and the end of World War II, in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square on Wednesday. The crowd whipped out their smartphones as a swarm of helicopters flew in formation over Tiananmen Square, forming the number ‘80’ in the sky. ‘Oohs’ and ‘Aahs’ rippled through the audience when the gigantic DF-5C ICBM was unveiled, and again when tens of thousands of doves of peace were released into the sky. AFP

Acting Thai gov’t moves

BANGKOK – Thailand’s acting prime minister has moved to dissolve parliament, his party said Wednesday, after the largest opposition party backed a rival candidate to lead the country.

Prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was ousted by the Constitutional Court last week over her handling of a border row with Cambodia, leaving a power vacuum in the kingdom’s top office as rival factions jostled to replace her.

Her Pheu Thai party -- still governing in a caretaker capacity -- had courted the power-broking opposition People’s Party

to dissolve parliament

to back its own new candidate for prime minister.

But the People’s Party declared its support for conservative tycoon Anutin Charnvirakul instead.

Just moments later, Pheu Thai secretary general Sorawong Thienthong told AFP that acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai “has submitted a house dissolution decree”.

According to the Thai constitution, if the king approves the dissolution of parliament, an election must take place between 45 and 60 days later.

Opponents of Japan PM Ishiba seeking new leadership contest

TOKYO – Opponents of Prime Minister

Shigeru Ishiba in Japan’s ruling party sought on Wednesday to rally support for a new leadership election, with several party heavyweights reportedly turning on the embattled premier.

Ishiba, 68, took the helm of the longdominant Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) last year and has since lost his majority in both houses of parliament, most recently in upper chamber elections in July.

On Tuesday, four senior LDP figures including secretary general Hiroshi Moriyama offered to resign, but Ishiba said he still had work to do as leader.

“I will make appropriate decisions at an appropriate time. But first and foremost, I believe this means dedicating all my efforts to fulfilling what the people truly want me to accomplish,” he said.

“I won’t run away from taking responsibility,” he said, adding he had “no intention at all to cling onto my position” if

it became untenable.

The LDP is currently surveying its 295 lawmakers and 47 regional officials across Japan on whether to hold a new leadership contest, in a process due to conclude on September 8.

Those backing the idea include influential former prime minister Taro Aso, according to national broadcaster NHK and the top-selling Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper.

Ishiba’s most prominent rival Sanae Takaichi, seen as a hardline nationalist, all but said on Tuesday that she would seek a contest.

“In any organization, when things don’t go well, I have my own thoughts about how leaders should take responsibility,” she told reporters. Recent opinion polls suggest rebounding support for Ishiba’s cabinet, with voters less than keen on the hawkish Takaichi, runner-up in the last leadership election in 2024. AFP

“Give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America,” he wrote on Truth Social. In a show of military strength, Xi inspected the massed troops and weaponry from an open-topped limousine down Beijing’s vast Chang’an Avenue before turning back to join his guests in a seating area above the iconic portrait of Mao Zedong on Tiananmen, the entrance gate of the historic Forbidden City. China’s huge collection of military vehicles and heavy weapons rolled past the dignitaries, while images of thousands of servicemen and women in immaculate uni-

China endured hottest summer on record in 2025

BEIJING – China experienced its hottest summer on record in 2025, the meteorological authority said, as heatwaves continued to scorch the country’s south.

Temperatures around the world have soared in recent years as human-induced climate change creates ever more erratic weather patterns, with the UK, Japan and South Korea also reporting record heat this summer.

From June to August, “large parts of China experienced intense heat, with the national average temperature reaching 22.31C,” the hottest summer since records began in 1961, the China Meteorological Administration said in a social media post on Monday night.

Temperatures in the capital Beijing rose to nearly 40C in June, and authorities warned in July of heat-related health risks across large swathes of eastern China.

Shanghai authorities said the city had sweltered through 27 days of temperatures hotter than 35C in August, the most since record keeping started.

According to the CMA, stronger high-pressure weather systems contributed to clearer skies and more exposure to heat from the sun across the country this year.

Pheu Thai are the current electoral vehicle of the Shinawatra dynasty, which has for two decades jousted with the kingdom’s pro-monarchy, pro-military elite. But their influence is in decline, analysts say, and they are struggling to keep a grip on power.

The People’s Party pledged its 143-strong parliamentary bloc to back Anutin, heir to a construction engineering fortune who previously served as deputy prime minister, interior minister and health minister -- in 2022 delivering on a promise to legalize cannabis. AFP

The CMA said that while parts of China would experience a brief reprieve from blistering heat in the middle of the week, cities including Shanghai would see daily highs exceeding 35C again by the end of the week. Last year’s summer was also a record-breaking one in China, setting the bar at 22.30C.

Globally, 2024 was the world’s hottest year on record, according to the World Meteorological Organization. This year isn’t looking to let up on the heat -- this week officials in Japan, South Korea and the United Kingdom also announced record average summer temperatures. AFP

Hope

dwindles for survivors days after deadly Afghan quake

JALALABAD, Afghanistan – Hope faded Wednesday of finding survivors in the rubble of homes devastated by the weekend’s powerful earthquake in eastern Afghanistan, as emergency services struggled to reach remote villages.

A magnitude-6.0 earthquake hit the mountainous region bordering Pakistan on Sunday, leaving residents huddled in the open air for fear of powerful aftershocks and desperately trying to pull people from under flattened buildings. The earthquake killed more than 1,400 people and injured over 3,300, Taliban authorities said, making it one of the deadliest in decades to hit the impoverished country.

The vast majority of the casualties were in Kunar province, with a dozen dead and hundreds hurt in nearby Nan-

garhar and Laghman provinces. In Kunar’s Nurgal district, victims remained trapped under the rubble and were difficult to rescue, local official Ijaz Ulhaq Yaad told AFP on Wednesday. “There are some villages which have still not received aid,” he said. Landslides caused by the earthquake stymied access to already isolated villages. The non-governmental group Save the Children said one of their aid teams “had to walk for 20 kilometers to reach villages cut off by rock falls, carrying medical equipment on their backs with the help of community members.”

The World Health Organization warned the number of casualties from the earthquake was expected to rise, “as many remain trapped in destroyed buildings.” AFP

SAX-PLAYING PILOT. People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut (2nd left) is surrounded by media members as he leaves after a press conference at the parliament in Bangkok on Wednesday. Thailand’s largest opposition party gave right-

Over 200 young talents clash as PPS Digos

netfest unfolds

THE spotlight now turns to the young guns of the south as the MJFC Araw ng Digos City National Juniors Tennis Championships unwraps today (Thursday) at the Digos City courts, featuring over 200 players eager to showcase their skills in a highly competitive setting.

Following the Luzon swing of the nationwide Palawan PawnshopPalawan Express Pera Padala (PPSPEPP) circuit, the action shifts to Mindanao with nine age group categories in both boys’ and girls’ divisions. This Group 2 tournament, presented by Dunlop, offers valuable ranking points and a platform for aspiring tennis stars aiming to shine on the national and international stage.

All four boys’ categories drew full 32-player rosters, while the girls’ 14and 16-and-under events also attracted packed lineups, further evidence of the sport’s growing popularity in the region. Much of the enthusiasm can be attributed to the continued international success of tennis sensation Alex Eala, whose achievements serve as inspiration for many young Filipino athletes.

Leading the boys’ 18-and-U division are Raphael Duay, Jonathan High, Stephen Fuertes, and Chad Globasa. On the girls’ side, Sanschena Francisco, Dhea Cua, Ayl Gonzaga and Aika Salahuddin are among the top players to watch in what promises to be a thrilling five-day tournament held in conjunction with the Araw ng Digos City founding anniversary and hosted by Mayor Josef Fortich Cagas.

Globasa also headlines the boys’ 16 -and-U bracket in the event, serving as part of the ongoing nationwide talent search spearheaded b y Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO Bobby Castro, aimed at discovering and developing the next generation of Filipino tennis champions.

Globasa faces tough competition from Iñigo Barrios, Julius Otoc and Jan Gecosala. Meanwhile, Olongapo’s Gonzaga, fresh off her victory at the Mayor Arlene Arcillas Cup in Laguna, enters the girls’ 16-and-U division as the top seed. She will be challenged by Justine Gumbao, Mariam Mokalam and Salahuddin.

Djokovic hopes body holds up vs. Alcaraz in semis duel

NEW YORK—Novak Djokovic said he is hopeful he will be fit enough to put up a proper fight against Carlos Alcaraz after setting up a titanic US Open semi-final with the Spaniard.

The 38-year-old Serbian star kept his bid for a record 25th Grand Slam on track with a four-set win over fourth seed Taylor Fritz on Tuesday. Djokovic’s 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 victory over the last American left in the men’s draw sent him into a record-equalling 14th US Open semi-final.

He will now have two precious days of recovery time to prepare for a highly-anticipated tussle with the red-hot Alcaraz on Friday.

“It’s not going to get easier. I tell you that,” said Djokovic.

“The next couple of days is really key for me to really get my body in shape and ready to battle five sets if it’s needed.

“I just would really love that. Would love to be fit enough to play

and to play, you know, potentially five sets with Carlos. I know that my best tennis is going to be required, but I’d rise to the occasion.”

Djokovic and Alcaraz will square off for the first time since the Australian Open quarter-finals in January when the Serbian won in four sets to take a 5-3 edge in their rivalry.

The upcoming encounter is their fifth at a Grand Slam but first at Flushing Meadows. Djokovic has won all three past meetings on hard courts.

“Here we are. I have another chance, another shot. Hopefully, as I said, I can be fit enough and play well enough to keep up with Carlos,” said Djokovic.

“Normally I like to play the big matches on a big stage. It’s just that I’m,

you know, not really sure how the body is going to feel in the next few days.

“I don’t feel very fresh at the moment, but hopefully in two days it will be different.”

‘Heart and fight’

Djokovic’s win over Fritz saw him improve to 16-0 against American opponents at the US Open as he reached the last four of a major for the 53rd time.

He also drew level with Jimmy Connors for the most US Open semi-final appearances.

“It was an incredibly close match. It was really anybody’s match,” said Djokovic.

“I thought I was really lucky to save some crucial break points in the second set. I think for most of the second and third sets he was the better player.”

“It’s one of those days where you just have to grind,” he added. “You just have to play with your heart and fight. That’s what really gave me the win in the end.” AFP

Run with purpose: Foundever raises hope for young cancer patients

FOUNDEVER®, a global leader in customer experience (CX) solutions, brought together employees, their families, friends and even pets for a day of fitness, fun, and purpose at their first Metro Manila fun run event held at the Arcovia City Pasig.

Themed “Race It Forward,” the fun run energized almost 1.4K participants while championing a meaningful cause—supporting children with cancer. For every runner who crossed the finish line, Foundever in the Philippines pledged donations to Bahay Aruga, Inc., a halfway house in Manila providing shelter and care to young cancer patients undergoing treatment at the Philippine General Hospital.

“This event is more than just a run; it’s about strengthening our community spirit while promoting health and wellness,” said Willy Lim, Vice President for HR, Marketing and Talent Acquisi-

Ha, Jahns blaze through heat to tie for lead as Chan slips

BACOLOD—Korean Tae Won Ha and Keanu Jahns staged a dramatic late charge under the scorching Bacolod sun to fire 64 and 65, respectively, and seize joint leadership from a faltering Aidric Chan in a thrilling second round of the ICTSI Bacolod Golf Challenge here on Wednesday. The players battled not just the demanding par-70 Bacolod Golf and Country Club layout but also the punishing heat, which replaced days of rainfall and rendered the course both softer and longer. The shift in weather demanded a complete recalibration in course management, favoring those who could adapt with precision and patience. By day’s end, two unlikely leaders had emerged from vastly different paths – one seeking redemption from a string of mediocre finishes, the other aiming for back-to-back wins. Both signed for eight-under 132s, capping a gripping round marked by low scores, surprises and a pivotal swing in momentum.

Ha, the unheralded 21-year-old from Incheon, Korea, played with poise and confidence, saying he fully expected to post a low number on a course that punishes even the slightest errors. He backed up that claim by going bogey-free, birdieing Nos. 4, 8 and 9 inside 15 feet, then sticking a 7-iron from 175 yards to three feet on the par5 15th for eagle. He drained another long birdie putt on the next before parring his way in for a flawless six-under card.

“I expected to score this low. My game feel is the same as yesterday, but my putting and luck were better,” said Ha, who trains at Mimosa Plus and Pradera Verde.

Ha’s steady rise – after finishing tied for 51st at Pradera Verde, 36th at Eagle Ridge, and joint 18th at Caliraya Springs – finally seems to be cresting at the right moment. Intent on playing safe but sharp golf, he says he’ll stick to a conservative approach over the final two rounds. Jahns, meanwhile, proved once

more that he can thrive under any condition – long and open or tight and tricky like Binitin. The 29-yearold produced six birdies to offset three bogeys, spiking his 65 with an eagle on No. 15 following a solid drive and a brilliant 8-iron from 165 yards to 24 feet, which he drained with confidence.

“My driving was a bit better today, which helped a lot. I found more fairways and holed a lot of longer putts,” said Jahns, who’s 36 holes away from adding another Philippine Golf Tour title to his resume. “It would be nice to score back-to-back wins, but same game plan – stay in the present.”

Chan, who had led for most of the day after dispatching co-leader Michael Bibat early in their backside start, looked poised to retain the top spot until a disastrous double-bogey on the par-4 7th. Despite earlier birdies on Nos. 2, 4 and 6, the costly miscue dropped him to solo second at 133 after a 69 – one shot off the lead.

“It’s all about breaks,” lamented

PBA’s rookie prospects to go through Draft Combine

ROOKIE prospects go through the initial phase of the coming PBA Season 50 draft as they participate in the two-day Draft Combine at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

Applicants are required to attend the traditional event starting on Thursday where players undergo physical, athletic, and medical evaluations before scouts, coaches, and team managers.

A total of 128 players have applied for this year’s draft set on Sept. 7 at the Mall of Asia Music Hall.

Due to the large number of participants, the players were divided into 12 teams who will undergo measurements and biometrics at the start of the Draft Combine.

An hour-long orientation will then be held to acquaint and familiarize the applicants about the Unified Players’ Contract or UPC.

Shortly after, the different teams will begin playing against each other that carries on until the next day, eventually culminating in a championship match and the naming of an MVP and Mythical Selection.

A three-point shootout is also slated on Friday just before the semifinal games.

San Beda’s Yukien Andrada and 6-foot-9 Ladis Lepalan of College of St. Benilde head Team A-1 (Blackwater), the duo of Tony Ynot (St. Benilde) and Jason Brickman join forces in Team A-2 (Barangay Ginebra), Emmanuel Codinera –son of PBA great Jerry Codinera – and fellow Thomasian in Fil-Am Geremy Robinson play together with Kyle Tolentino of Letran and FEU’s Ximone Sandagon in a stacked up Team A-3 (Converge), while burly Lorenz Capulong of Arellano, Letran’s Vince Cuajao, and Kascius Small-Martin banner Team B-1 (Magnolia).

tion of Philippines, Malaysia, and China. “When our people come together in activities like this, we create a culture where everyone feels valued, connected, and empowered to thrive.”

Made possible through the collaboration of teams across different locations, this fun run reflects the commitment of Foundever in helping its employees create their best moments through wellness and purpose. Earlier this year, Foundever in the Philippines also hosted sportsfests in Baguio, Cebu, Mandaluyong and Pasig, featuring a wide range of athletic and recreational competitions—from basketball, badminton and cheer dance to chess and e-sports. All these events are part of the EverBetter Wellness Program of Foundever in the Philippines, a holistic initiative that promotes employee health, work-life balance, and purpose through sports and wellness activities.

Team B-2 (Meralco) features Qatar-based Pinoy baller Jacey Kleon Cruz and Adamson’s Aaron Flowers, Team B-3 (NLEX) will have top prospects Geo Chiu and Will Gozum, Team C-1 (Northport) is led by another possible top pick in Juan Gomez De Liano, and Team C-2 (Phoenix) is boasted by Christopher Koon of Ateneo and King Gurtiza of Emilio Aguinaldo College.

One-time University of the East team captain Jack Cruz-Dumont spearheads Team C-3 (Rain or Shine), La Salle’s CJ Austria, Santo Tomas’ Christian Manaytay, and LJay Gonzales of Far Eastern University head Team D-1 (San Miguel), former Batang Gilas Harvey Pagsanjan and Ateneo’s John Quiteves carry the fight in Team D-2 (Terrafirma), and Fil-Italian guard Dalph Panopio and San Beda’s Gabriel Cometa team up to head Team D-3 (TNT).

Shown here are (from left) Geoffrey Que, Sr. Director & Site Lead; Elna Barbo, Sr. Director & Site Lead; Jean Bernardo, Treasurer/Admin at Bahay Aruga, Inc.; Vinu Sukumar, Sr. Director & Site Lead; Susan Sy, Sr. Director & Site Lead; and John Henry Valencia, HRBP Director.

Tae Won Ha Manny Marcelo Chan, who blamed thick roughs and poor lies for the unraveling. “I had a lot of good ones yesterday, but today I had some unfortunate breaks and didn’t hit good shots at key moments.” Despite the slip, Chan remains optimistic and plans to be more aggres-

sive over the weekend. “I’ll stick to my plan with less expectations. My putting is there. I just need to give myself

Serbia’s Novak Djokovic plays a shot to USA’s Taylor Fritz during their men’s singles quarterfinal tennis match on Day 10 of the US Open tennis tournament at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City. AFP

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Lady Falcons rip Letran bets, nail V-League top seeding

ADAMSON University clinched the No. 1 seed in the semifinals with a dominant 25-18, 25-17, 25-16 sweep of Colegio de San Juan de Letran, extending its winning streak to six games in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Wednesday afternoon at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center in Manila.

Riding the momentum of an unbeaten run in the eight-team tournament organized by Sports Vision, the Lady Falcons once again shone as star hitter Shaina Nitura drew timely support from rookie opposite spiker Abby Segui and Frances Mordi.

Shaina outdueled her older sister Judiel, finishing with 10 points and seven excellent receptions. Segui stepped up with 12 points on 10 attacks, one ace, and one block, helping Adamson secure the top seed with a still-unscathed 6-0 win-loss slate.

“We are thankful for this opportunity na No. 1 seed kami. We’re very glad na na-execute ng bata nang maayos yung plays today. Pero looking ahead, we’re a work in progress all the time so kailangan pa namin i-work out yung mga lapses namin all throughout this game para maging pulido pa yung mga galaw ng bata,” said Lady Falcons head coach JP Yude.

Adamson wasted no time in the third set, racing to a commanding 14-3 lead that proved to be the difference.

Behind back-to-back attacks from Mordi, a net fault by Jade Isar, and a quick hit by Kamille Dionisio, the Lady Falcons built a 20-6 cushion that was too steep for Letran to recover from.

The Lady Knights tried to rally with a 9-3 run that trimmed the gap to 23-15, but Eloisa Dote delivered a quick swipe before Red Bascon sealed the match with a game-clinching rejection on Judiel, preserving Adamson’s spotless record.

Earlier in the second set, the Lady Falcons established a 16-10 lead before Segui and Lhouriz Tuddao closed the door with crucial attacks down the stretch, handing Adamson a decisive two-setsto-none advantage.

Mordi chipped in 12 points built on 10 attacks and two blocks to go with six excellent receptions, while Tuddao contributed seven points off three blocks, two aces, and two attacks.

SISTER BATTLE. Adamson

star Shaina Nitura (left) rejects a smash attempt by sister Judiel of Letran during their teams’ 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge faceoff at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center in Manila. Providing help at right is MG Del Moral.

Eala sets up duel against controversial Lepchenko

By Peter Atencio

SECOND seed Alexandra Eala of the Philippines will meet an older rival almost double her age in Varvara Lepchenko of the United States for first time in her second-round match at Guadalajara Open 125 in Mexico.

The 20-year-old Eala set up a showdown with the 39-year-old Lepchenko after she took 69 minutes to get past Dutch rival Arianne Hartono, 6-2, 6-2, in her opening game on Wednesday (Manila time).

The unseeded Lepchenko will challenge Eala after she disposed of Australian Madison Inglis, 6-4, 6-1 at the Panamerican Tennis Center in Zapopan.

Throughout her career, Lepchenko has reached a career-high ranking of No. 19 in the world in 2012. Her best Grand Slam results include reaching the fourth round of the French Open in 2012 and the US Open in 2015. She has won one singles’ title on the WTA Challenger Tour and multiple singles and one doubles title on the ITF Women’s Circuit. Lepchenko has been involved in two anti-doping cases, the first one in 2016, when she tested positive for meldonium, but was found to be not at fault. In 2021, she tested positive for a stimulant, which led to a provisional four-year suspension. She appealed the suspension that was eventually reduced to 21 months after she provided evidence that the positive test was caused by a contaminated supplement. She returned to competition in May 2023. Eala became the highest-seeded player in the tournament after Victoria Jimenez-Kasintseva toppled defending champion, top seed and world’s no. 51 Kamilla Rakhimova, 6-1, 7-6 (2).

Alas men grind to the hilt in training 9 days ahead of FIVB worlds

BRYAN Bagunas and and Marck Espejo continue to grind with the 21-man pool to unlock Alas Pilipinas’s full potential with only nine days before the Philippines opens its historic hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.

“I’m excited, but we’re still focused on training so we can bring out the team’s full potential,” said Espejo during the MRT3 Go Live! event on Wednesday to promote the country’s hosting of the 32-nation world championship.

“This is a big tournament, of course, but all of us are ready,” Espejo added. “As a team, we still have a long way to go, but we’ve also come a long way since we started training together, especially during our training camp in Europe.”

Alas Pilipinas went on a two-week training camp in Morocco, Romania and Portugal under the watchful eye of Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni and their mettle will be put to a test against Tunisia in the world championships opening match at 6 p.m. next Friday (September 12) at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. An electrifying opening ceremony

featuring the K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR and Filipino singer, songwriter and actress Karencitta will follow immediately after the match. Tickets are available via the official website https:// www.philippineswch2025.com/

Bagunas is is raring to regain his top shape after a year’s layoff because of a knee injury.

“I’m really happy to be back on the

court. I wouldn’t say I’m at 100 percent yet, but I’m doing my best to catch up with the team,” Bagunas said.

“We all know how high the level of competition is now, so I’m pushing myself to keep up with them,” added Bagunas also during the MRT3 Go Live! Event that was attended by members of the Alas Pilipinas Men and Women squads.

Members of Alas Pilipinas Men and Women along with PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, secretary general Don Caringal and board member Yul Benosa and MRT3 General Manager Michael Capati are shown before a fully dressed-up MRT 3 train at the North Edsa station. PNVF Photo

The Philippines battles Egypt on September 16 and Iran on September 18 for its Pool A assignments.

“We are at the final stages of preparations and we’re happy to say that we’re all set and ready to serve in this hosting,” said Ramon “Tats” Suzara, president of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) and Asian Volleyball Confederation.

Kim zeroes in on breakthrough win, pulls away by 6

BACOLOD – Seo Yun Kim took a giant step toward a long-awaited breakthrough on the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour, pulling away from the pack with a commanding six-stroke lead after 36 holes in the ICTSI Bacolod Golf Challenge at the Bacolod Golf and Country Club here on Wednesday. Displaying poise and precision far beyond her 21 years, the Korean shot a composed 68 to go with her sparkling, bogey-free 66 in the opening round, taking her to a tournament-leading sixunder-par 134 total.

What makes Kim’s performance even more impressive is that it comes on the tight, treelined fairways of the Binitin layout – short in yardage but unforgiving in complexity. Her control, consistency and touch around the greens – particularly under the searing Bacolod heat – hint at a player not just eager to win, but fully ready to do so in style. Kim, who has endured six runner-up finishes in a three-year LPGT campaign, is now within striking distance of not just a maiden win, but a wire-to-wire victory that would serve as a definitive statement of her arrival.

“I don’t want to lose this one,” said Kim

with quiet resolve. “No expectations, but I think I can make it this time.”

She credited her strong showing to regular practice and the relentless pursuit of that elusive first win. “I just want to stay focused and play easy – no pressure,” she added. Kim opened her second round with four pars before igniting her charge with a birdie on the fifth. She then duplicated her birdiebirdie burst from Nos. 8 and 9 – similar to her opening-round tear – to separate herself from the chasing field.

Though she slipped with bogeys on Nos. 10 and 13, she bounced back with a birdie on the par-5 15th, closing with a 32-36 card.

While the soft-spoken Kim downplays expectations, her near-flawless execution –especially with her short game – says otherwise. Even as the greens hardened and sped up under the midday sun, Kim showed remarkable control, salvaging pars when needed and capitalizing on scoring opportunities.

“I really had a hard time with my approach shots going over the greens,” she admitted.

Despite Kim’s formidable advantage, the country’s top pros aren’t backing down.

NU leads 16-team SSL Preseason Unity Cup field

NATIONAL University faces tough opposition in its title-retention bid against a strong field eager for a taste of glory in the 2025 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Preseason Unity Cup starting September 20 at the Playtime FilOil Centre.

Sixteen teams, six from UAAP and all 10 from the NCAA, will duke it out for the crown in the fourth staging of the league’s centerpiece tournament.

Last edition’s runner-up De La Salle University and University of the East, are taking a leave of absence from the competition as both squads are still in the process of rebuilding their core following some key departures. Still, intense action in the competition backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner and R and B Milk Tea, remains the same.

“Even though we only have 16 teams, we still have a good lineup of up-and-coming teams with new players on their rosters. We want to showcase, for the very first time, how these players play with each other and against their respective opponents in their respective leagues,” said Dr. Ian Laurel, president and chairman of SSL organizer Athletic Events and Sports Management, Inc. (ACES), during the competition’s press conference on Wednesday at the Shakey’s Buendia branch. Also present during the press launch were Shakey’s Pizza Asia Ventures Inc. (SPAVI) President and CEO Vic Gregorio, SPAVI General Manager Oliver Sicam, SPAVI Marketing Head Regina Asa, PLDT and Smart Communications Head of Sports Jude Turcuato, ACES Director Ariel Paredes, as well as coaches and key players of participating teams.

The 16 squads are divided into four groups to play in a singleround robin format in the preliminary round. The four-peat-seeking Lady Bulldogs are bunched with Emilio Aguinaldo College, San Beda University and Lyceum of the Philippines University in Pool A.

The Uzbekistani-born American Lepchenko was born on May 21, 1986, in Tashkent, in what was then the Soviet Union. Lepchenko moved to the United States and became a U.S. citizen in 2011. She has represented the United States in the Olympics and the Billie Jean King Cup.

Seo Yun Kim Manny Marcelo

Varvara Lepchenko AFP

Alexandra Eala

Dennis B. Mallari

WHAT’S INSIDE?

PH stocks dip amid corruption probe

Power prices at spot market rose 15.3% in August on higher demand

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE average system-wide electricity

prices in the Philippines’ spot market rose 15.3 percent in August 2025 to P4.59 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) from the previous month, on increased demand and widespread power plant outages, data from the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) showed Wednesday.

slightly by P0.16 to P3.76 per kWh. The region’s power supply was 14,646 MW, while demand was 9,882 MW.

Prices in the Visayas surged P2.01 to P6.40 per kWh due to outages at several coal plants and the shutdown of biomass facilities. This resulted in yellow alerts on Aug. 1, Aug. 4 and Aug. 5. Supply in the region declined to 2,405 MW, while demand increased to 2,027 MW.

DOTr to award 3 more contracts for P488-b subway

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) is expected to award the remaining three contracts for the P488.5-billion Metro Manila Subway Project by October or November 2025, a top official said Wednesday.

Acting DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez said contract packages 105, 108 and 109 are under contract negotiations.

“I think we can award it sometime hopefully in October or November,” said Lopez.

CP 105 includes the construction of two underground stations, Kalayaan and BGC terminals and tunnel works, while CP 108 covers the building of two underground stations (Lawton and Senate-Department of Education) as well as tunnel works,

CP 109 is for the construction of Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 station and tunnel works.

P488.5 billion

848 billion yen

Ajinomoto eyes P9.1-b factory in Tarlac B3 B4

Average system-wide supply fell 0.7 percent to 20,611 megawatts (MW) in the period, while demand rose 1.7 percent to 14,052 MW, pushing prices up, IEMOP said.

“There were forced outages and yellow alerts in the first week of August,” said Isidro Cacho, IEMOP vice president for trading operations.

“The HVDC link was maximized, leading to price separation between Luzon and Visayas. The flow of supply from Mindanao to Visayas was limited,” said Cacho.

Cacho said he expects prices to remain between P4 and P5 per kWh for the rest of the year, with supply adequate to meet rising demand.

In Luzon, despite higher demand and supply, average prices dipped

Lady of

Inc.

development

University and

agreement

are (from left) Agnes Martin, Dean Hernan Labao, Dean Heracleo Lagrada and Dr. Rodehlia Magaspac of Fatima University; Erwin Chuanunsu, Jose Valentin Pantangco and Orville Zamora II all of MSA-PH as well as Dean Ernesto Leuterio Jr. also of Fatima University. The partnership underscores a shared commitment between the two entities to elevating respiratory therapy in the Philippines by aligning academic training with real-world clinical expertise.

DOE to assess impact of coal plant closures

THE Department of Energy (DOE) has teamed up with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) to study the impact of the country’s energy transition on the local coal industry. The study will look into the effects of closing down coal plants and mines.

“We have a partnership with UNOPS. I told them we need to study the impact if we’re going to close down our coal mines and coal power plants,” said Michael Sinocruz, director for the DOE’s Energy Policy and Planning Bureau.

The study will identify the number of workers and communities that could be affected by the energy transition and determine potential alternatives for them. It will also calculate the funding needed to protect against displacement.

“Part of the study should be how much money or funding we need to protect against this possible displacement of workers and even the livelihoods of the community,” Sinocruz said on the sidelines of the Philippine Energy Transition Dialogue.

Semirara Mining and Power Corp., the country’s largest coal mining company, said it supports the DOE’s efforts.

“For now, coal remains the backbone of our baseload supply, ensuring affordable and reliable electricity. Any move to phase it out will need careful study, timing and planning to ensure energy security and protect livelihoods,” the company said in a statement.

“We trust that the transition will be managed in a way that balances sustainability with the country’s energy and economic needs,” it said.

The DOE has not yet initiated talks with mining companies as the study has not been completed.

“We are planning to do that once the study is completed because we need to have a plan for them,” Sinocruz said.

“Based on this study, we can have, or probably recommend, policies for consideration by the Department of Energy or by the national government, providing alternatives for those that will be affected by this transition,” he said.

Sinocruz said the study was initiated

Alena Mae S.

Prices in Mindanao also soared P2.86 to P6.66 per kWh after outages at coal plants, which caused a yellow alert on Aug. 1. Supply dropped to 3,561 MW, while demand was steady at 2,144 MW.

IEMOP said forced and planned outages of cheaper plants during the second week of August also contributed to the overall price increases.

According to IEMOP, renewable energy contributed 26 percent of the total generation mix. The share of natural gas rose to 22 percent, while coal and geothermal generation decreased to 50.6 percent and 7.8 percent, respectively.

Solar generation increased to 4 percent, oil-based generation to 0.9 percent and hydro generation to 12.6 percent due to the rainy season.

The agency already awarded CP 101, which consists of four stations – East Valenzuela, Quirino Highway, Tandang Sora and North Avenue – as well as the depot and the Philippine Railway Institute Building to the joint venture of Shimizu, Fujita, Takenaka and EEI.

CP 102, which involves the construction of Quezon Ave. and East Ave. stations, was awarded to the joint venture of Nishimatsu and DMCI.

Sumitomo bagged the CP 103, which covers Anonas and Camp Aguinaldo stations. Megawide, Tokyu Construction and Tobishima won CP 104, which involves the construction of Ortigas and Shaw Boulevard stations.

The government earlier secured 848-billion-yen loan (P376.6 billion) from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to fund the P488.5 billion subway project.

33 km. Estimated cost of subway Loan from Japan for subway

Length of Metro Manila subway

The 33-kilometer subway, dubbed as the “project of the century” stretches from Valenzuela in the north to NAIA Terminal 3 and the Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) in the south. The project is expected to be fully operational by 2029. It is seen to reduce travel time between Quezon City and NAIA from one hour and 30 minutes to just 35 minutes. It is expected to serve around 370,000 passengers a day in its first year of full operations, with capacity to serve up to a million passengers a day in later years.

due to global pressure to phase out coal because of the Conference of Parties (COP) climate summits.

Flores

PRE-PACKAGED PRODUCTS. Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers Inc. executive director Mario Capanzana (fifth from left) cites the important role of

pre-packaged products (PPF) to the food supply chain in the Philippines during a learning session at the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines office in August 2025. PPF is stepping into an unexpected role from a convenience item to a critical part of the national food security strategy. Far from being mere ‘instant’ options, well-designed PPF products are becoming vehicles for fortified nutrition, supply chain resilience and disaster preparedness.

HEALTHCARE PARTNERSHIP. Officials of Our

Fatima

Lopez-led Medical Services of America (Philippines)

(MSA-PH) sign an

for the advance education, training and career

of the school’s respiratory therapy students. Joining the MOA signing ceremony

BUSINESS —“—

PH stocks dip amid corruption allegations

Pagcor’s reliance on online gambling is alarming

Pagcor should have a moral fiber in the face of tragic stories linked to online gambling.

THE nation’s gambling regulator is treading on dangerous ground. Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) is the sole body that regulates and licenses gaming activities in the Philippines, including online gambling.

But its heavy reliance on online gaming revenues is compromising its regulatory role. Pagcor officials can be influenced to water down regulatory requirements or circumvent existing rules, as some sitting officials benefit from the earnings of industry players.

The Senate joint committee hearing on Aug. 14, 2025 revealed that revenues from licensed online gambling operators are increasingly dominating the financial lifeline of the government agency.

From 2021 to 2024, Pagcor’s revenues from online gambling rose sharply from 18.98 percent to 50.03 percent. The Senate presentation further showed that Pagcor’s revenues from taxes collected from online gambling companies have increased to 59.59 percent as of June 2025.

Nobody will argue about Pagcor’s revenues that fund government’s socio-civic and national development programs and its role in promoting the tourism industry.

Like any government agency, however, Pagcor should have a moral fiber in the face of tragic stories linked to online gambling. It should not shoot down proposals to totally prohibit online gambling in the Philippines.

Pagcor, instead, favors only stricter regulations on online gambling operators. Such position is linked to the agency’s increasing financial reliance from revenues coming from online gambling operators.

Its financial dependence with industry players it is supposed to regulate is precarious.

Accommodating the interests of online gambling operators, for one, compromises the integrity of government bodies. Ties, friendship and networks formed between regulatory officials and industry leaders whom they are supposed to regulate only empower the latter.

There is a possibility that retired government officials can be absorbed or can work together in the private sector once they leave public service or reach retirement age. This phenomenon is referred as the revolving door theory in public administration.

Pagcor is no stranger from the revolving door phenomenon as a former consultant has been reported to benefit from working with a casino giant prior to the termination of his service.

Reliance on online gambling also defeats the spirit and purpose of universal healthcare.

The resulting addiction from online gambling is a public health problem.

The higher number of online gambling addicts adds pressure to our public healthcare system that is currently struggling to even accommodate demands to address mental health problems of most Filipinos.

Since the country’s public health system is still incapable to fully accommodate mental health problems and addiction rehabilitation, who will then take care of millions of Filipinos suffering from gambling compulsion?

While there are existing privatelyowned institutions dedicated for addiction rehabilitation, persons in need of therapy and rehabilitation will either shell out of their own funds or rely on the limited resources donated to these private institutions by their respective donors.

Our lawmakers and government officials should not be blinded by the amount of revenues collected from online gambling operators. Stakeholders should be vigilant of potential accountability issues that may arise from the possible deep ties between Pagcor officials and online gambling industry leaders. Pagcor has the regulatory power and should exercise it. While the online gambling problem is multi-faceted, the first line of defense should come from Pagcor.

Rectifying existing regulatory loopholes

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE stocks declined for the fifth straight trading day amid corruption allegations and lower investment data.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell 45.96 points, or 0.75 percent, to 6,082.93, while the broader all-shares index dropped 17.41 points, or 0.47 percent, to 3,663.62.

The peso strengthened to 57.3 to the US dollar on Wednesday from 57.51 on Tuesday.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said local shares declined after the government reported that economic losses from alleged corruption related to flood control projects had reached P100 billion.

Likewise, Board of Investments-approved investments declined during the first seven months of the year due to global tariff issues.

Continued foreign selling also contributed to the market’s sluggish trading.

The mining and oil index led all sectors, rising 1.28 percent, while holding firms also advanced 0.34 percent.

Conversely, the property sector fell 1.39 percent, while services, financials and industrial sectors declined 1.2 percent, 0.83 percent and 0.82 percent, respectively.

Value turnover remained tepid at P4.99 billion.

Foreign outflows accelerated to P921.7 million.

San Miguel Corp. was the top index gainer, climbing 2.74 percent to P59.90, while Ayala Land Inc. was at the bottom, shedding 2.96 percent to P27.85. A global bond selloff extended into Asia on Wednesday with yields in Japan hitting record levels, while gold reached a new peak as investors fret about public finances in countries from Japan to the United States.

Investors in Japan are also reacting to concerns that Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba might soon be forced to step down after the number two in his ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) offered to quit on Tuesday over July’s disastrous upper house election. Asian indexes were largely in the red, with Tokyo down 0.9 percent and Shanghai more than one percent lower at the close. European markets opened lower. Yields on 30-year Japanese government bonds rose to an all-time high of 3.29 percent, while 20-year yields reached 2.69 percent -their highest since 1999. With AFP

to address the problem should start with the acknowledgment of the proper mandates bestowed on concerned government agencies.

Recognizing the gravity of the problem, the Bangko Sentral ang Pilipinas (BSP) on August 14, 2025 immediately suspended the operations of online gambling platforms available in mobile applications.

The BSP stepped in despite ongoing public consultations and deliberations on how to rectify regulatory loopholes behind the alleged and unfounded link between e-wallets and online gambling addiction.

If the BSP can swiftly act, what’s stopping Pagcor from banning online gambling or enforcing much tougher rules on online gambling?

E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com

ORTIGAS SUBWAY. Acting Department of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez and Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto witness the start of the demolition work to pave the way for a new subway station in Ortigas, following a two-year delay. The project, which is part of the Metro Manila Subway system, was ordered to be fast-tracked by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Metro Pacific unit in talks to acquire Prime Water

By Jenniffer B. Austria

METROPAC Water Investments Corp. (MWIC), the water utility unit of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC), is in talks to acquire Prime Water Infrastructure Corp., an executive said Wednesday.

“Yes, we’re talking, but nothing definite yet,” MWIC president Andrew Pangilinan said in a text message.

Prime Water has faced numerous customer complaints in recent months, including issues with intermittent

supply and low water pressure.

The company has joint venture agreements with more than 70 water districts across the Philippines, including Bulacan and Cavite provinces.

Malacañang earlier received complains on Prime Water’s services.

MWIC operates more than 700 projects in the Philippines and Vietnam. In the Philippines, it has over 530,000 customers and 85,000 service connections, with a billed volume of 359 million liters per day.

Its major projects include water

distribution in Dumaguete and Iloilo, bulk water supply in Cagayan de Oro and Iloilo and industrial water projects in Vietnam.

MWIC is a sister company of Maynilad Water Services Inc., with both firms falling under the Metro Pacific group.

The Ayala group previously divested its stake in Manila Water Co. Inc. after former President Rodrigo Duterte threatened legal action against Manila Water and Maynilad over alleged “onerous” concession agreements.

Ajinomoto eyes P9.1-b factory in Tarlac—PEZA

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) welcomed Ajinomoto Philippines Corp. (APC), a subsidiary of Japan’s leading food manufacturer and the heritage brand behind Aji-no-moto, as one of its newest and most significant investors.

“PEZA embraces the Ajinomoto umami seasoning and food culture as we move forward together in this partnership of ecozoning the Philippines towards an inclusive and sustainable economy,” the agency said in a statement.

Ajinomoto, widely recognized as Japan’s No. 1 food company and a global pioneer in seasoning and flavor enhancement, is set to build a P9.1-billion manufacturing facility within the TARI Estate in Luisita, Tarlac City.

The TARI Estate is a mixed-use industrial hub developed by Aboitiz InfraCapital under the supervision of PEZA.

Construction of the state-of-the-art factory is scheduled to begin in May 2026, with full operations expected by April 2028.

The major investment marks a strategic expansion for Ajinomoto, which has been serving the Filipino market

for 67 years since it began operations in 1958.

The new facility, in addition to those in Cebu and Bulacan, will support APC’s continued business growth and new ventures in the country.

Ajinomoto Philippines manufactures its two top-selling products - the iconic Aji-no-moto umami seasoning and the Aji-Ginisa flavor seasoning mix.

With the Philippines’ strong domestic market and ongoing transition to an upper-middle-income economy, APC is optimistic about its growth trajectory in the country.

The company plans to introduce a wider range of food products, which are already enjoying strong popularity in other markets like Thailand, where Ajinomoto’s top five sellers include RosDee seasoning, Yum-Yum instant noodles, Birdy coffee and frozen food items such as karaage and gyoza.

POTATO Corner has opened its first store in Taiwan, marking its entry into its 16th international market.

The new location is inside the UniPresident Department Store in Taipei’s Xinyi District.

The brand is part of Shakey’s Pizza Asia Ventures Inc. (SPAVI), a leading food service group owned by the Po family. Since SPAVI acquired the brand in 2022, Potato Corner has expanded to 2,345 stores worldwide.

The company teamed up with Taiwan-based Fujin Tree Group, a lifestyle and food and beverage operator, to bring the brand to Taiwan. Fujin Tree’s portfolio includes 15 brands and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Potato Corner opens first Taiwan store EV

Jay Wu, founder of Fujin Tree Group, said the company was “honored to introduce Potato Corner, a beloved global brand, to Taiwan.”

“We look forward to adding more stores by the end of the year. Our goal is for Potato Corner to become the preferred spot for everyday gatherings and joyful moments,” Wu said.

Vicente Gregorio, SPAVI president and chief executive, said the opening was part of the brand’s global expansion.

“Potato Corner’s debut in Taipei is a milestone not just for our flavored fries, but for our Group vision of WOW-ing more guests around the world,” Gregorio said.

“And with the strong support of our partner Fujin Tree, we look forward to strengthening and scaling our presence in Taiwan,” he said. Jenniffer B. Austria

Corp. (PHC) cites its commitment to responsible corporate citizenship. Project Solicitude, PHC’s corporate social responsibility campaign, is designed to address key societal and environmental challenges. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the program focuses on four core areas: environmental stewardship, accessibility, community health and well-being and disaster resilience.

market in PH ‘nascent’ despite growth—study

By Thony Rose Lesaca

THE Philippine market for electric vehicles (EVs) is expanding, but growth remains “nascent” due to persistent adoption barriers, according to a report by a consultant for the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

The Philippines is home to several local EV assemblers and abundant nickel reserves used in battery production. However, much of the EV value chain remains underdeveloped and import-dependent.

EV adoption is increasing among public utility vehicles, but high upfront costs, limited financing, expensive electricity and a lack of charging stations continue to

GBrews Cafe serves community with great coffee and comfort

MEYCAUAYAN, Bulacan—Gbrews Cafe, a well-loved neighborhood coffee shop founded by Shailyn Guevarra, has expanded into a larger and more welcoming space, offering coffee lovers and community members an even greater experience. At just 36 years old, Guevarra has transformed her passion for coffee into a thriving business that reflects both quality and heart.

A married mother of three, she has invested years of training and handson experience to master her craft. Beyond serving beverages, Shailyn personally bakes the cakes, breads and pastries that pair perfectly with her handcrafted coffee creations.

“I don’t just want to pour you a drink; I want to create an experience sprinkled with love and warmth,” she says.

Every cup at GBrews Cafe is brewed with fresh beans sourced directly from Filipino farmers, underscoring Shailyn’s dedication to authenticity, sustainability and supporting local communities.

GBrews Cafe also extends its mission of service by creating opportunities for young people. The shop employs two student workers, giving them valuable training and work experience while they pursue their studies.

“Supporting the next generation and helping them to be successful is essential to me,” Guevarra says.

With its recent expansion, GBrews Cafe is set to welcome more customers into its cozy atmosphere—a space designed not only for great coffee, but also for connection and community.

hinder growth.

Accessible financing options for fleet electrification are notably lacking, particularly for companies and government entities without high initial capital to acquire new vehicles.

High electricity costs are also seen as contributing factors to the expenses of manufacturing, assembly, and charging infrastructure.

Public charging stations remain limited despite private sector interest.

Industry players face difficulties in investing in charging infrastructure due to limited market data and a lack of clear policies and regulations on charging standards and registration.

“Reliable market data related to EV usage across a variety of vehicle

segments is needed to address adoption barriers more effectively and tap into the most immediate opportunities,” the report said.

The report said that while the Philippines has laid the groundwork for an e-mobility transition, realizing its full potential will require “coordinated, inclusive action” among all sectors of society.

“By focusing on strategic policy enhancements and stronger implementation, market development, workforce training, and a strong commitment to just transition, the country can reap the benefits of sustainable and equitable transport while creating opportunities for all,” it said.

IN BRIEF

Shailyn Guevarra establishes GBrews Cafe as a neighborhood coffee shop in Meycauayan, Bulacan to serve high-quality coffee and fresh baked goods. By sourcing beans directly from local farmers and providing a warm, welcoming space, GBrews

Traditional Chinese Medicine seminar held in Quezon City

A CHINESE Traditional Medicine (TCM) expert, Dr. Kong Chui Cheng, led a two-day seminar in Quezon City focused on traditional healthcare techniques.

The event, titled “Turn Your Hands Into Healing Tools- Learn Guasha and Ventosa From The Master,” was held from Aug. 27 to 28 at the Titus Brandsma Center. It was a 16-hour session sponsored by Integrative Medicine for Alternative Healthcare Systems (INAM) Philippines Inc., the Asian Integrative Studies and Dialogue Center and MGA GAWA Inc.

Kong, a senior researcher specializing in TCM, discussed topics including guasha, acupuncture and rehabilitation medicine.

He also shared insights on potential academic and industry collaborations between China and the Philippines. Kong established a TCM technology training center in 2011 with a 120-million-yuan investment. In 2018, he founded Cross-temporal International Health Industry Corp. in Beijing. Michael Wong Ho

By Michael Wong Ho

THE Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) has issued a public reminder to Chinese nationals, clarifying the legal requirements for naturalization and the serious consequences of fraudulent practices.

The group underscored that both China and the Philippines do not permit dual citizenship for individuals who acquire their citizenship through naturalization.

Once a naturalization application is approved, the person should formally renounce their original nationality.

Citing Republic Act No. 9225 (Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition Act), FFCCCII said foreigners whose naturalization

Consulate promotes PH diving tourism in Guangzhou

PHILIPPINE Consulate General in Guangzhou Iric Cruz Arribas participated in the 33rd Guangzhou Fair from Aug. 22 to 24 to promote the Philippines as a premier diving destination.

In coordination with the local Chinese travel agency Jun Zi LV Travels, the consulate’s booth featured some of the Philippines’ most renowned diving spots, including Bohol, Coron, Dumaguete, Anilao and Cebu.

The Philippine destinations are celebrated for their rich marine biodiversity, vibrant coral reefs and unique underwater experiences.

The three-day fair was a key event for trade, innovation and tourism. A debut of the “New Quality

Productive Forces” zone showcased cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, green energy and biotechnology. It underscored Guangzhou’s commitment to innovation-led, sustainable development.

Guangzhou Mayor Sun Zhiyang and Chinese Academy of Sciences Vice President Wu Zhaohui also attended the event and cited the importance of international cooperation under the framework of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

The fair served as a platform for strengthening economic and cultural ties, with the Philippines’ participation highlighting the strong people-topeople connections between the two nations. Julie Ann Lope

applications are approved should take simultaneous action to cancel their Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR-I Card) with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and surrender their original country’s passport.

The group also issued a strong caution against the use of illegally obtained birth certificates, warning that some Chinese individuals, despite being previously registered as foreigners with the BI, have fraudulently acquired

By Julie Ann Lope

THE Philippine Hakka Association Inc. celebrated its establishment and inducted its first officers on Aug. 21, 2025 at the Century Seafood Restaurant in Manila.

More than 400 guests attended the event. Zhu Wen Qing was elected as the association’s first chairman. In his address as guest speaker,

Chinese nationals warned against naturalization fraud

birth certificates claiming to have Filipino parents.

The advisory noted that BI officers could cross-reference fingerprint records to uncover such illegal acts, which can lead to immediate arrest and deportation.

The FFCCCII said all foreigners seeking to become Philippine citizens should strictly follow the legal procedures outlined in Republic Act No. 9139 (Administrative Naturalization Law of 2000), which involves a proper court process.

The organization said that upon the approval of a naturalization application, the individual should give up their original country’s passport, as the privilege of holding dual citizenship is exclusively for natural-born Filipinos.

Philippine Hakka Association holds inaugural ceremony

Edwin Fabro, vice president of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII), said Hakka culture is a vital part of traditional Chinese culture.

He noted that Hakka people, with their unique history, have a culture rooted in the central plains of China while also integrating with the local cultures of the regions where they settled.

Fabro lauded the Hakka people for their fortitude, solidarity, diligence and unwavering commitment to upholding justice.

He expressed hope the new association would work to promote friendship and cooperation between China and the Philippines, serving as a bridge for cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

Polland Hopia blends tradition and innovation

POLLAND Hopia Bakery, a wellknown shop with branches across Metro Manila and several provinces, maintains its heritage while adapting for the future.

As you walk along Escolta St. in Sta Cruz, Manila, the distinctive sign of Polland Hopia Bakery is a familiar sight. The bakery is famous for its delicious hopia, a sweet pastry with many flavors. It has a special place in the hearts of many locals and tourists.

The story of Polland Hopia began in 1966 when Go So Po started making hopia in her home kitchen in Manila. She came from a family of hopia makers and used her skills to create snacks for her family and neighbors. Her first flavors were hopia munggo and hopia baboy, which became very popular and helped the business grow. Her husband, Tin Hai Siu, created designs and helped with the bakery’s branding. Today, the business is run by Po’s son, who used his engineering expertise to create machines that help produce the hopia while maintaining the same taste and quality.

Over the years, Polland Hopia has added more products to its menu, including other Chinese snacks like tikoy and mooncakes. The bakery also sells a wide range of other items, from sweet treats like casoy and garlic chips to savory items such as kikiam, camaron and siomai.

The bakery’s main branch is in Quezon City, with other locations in popular shopping malls like

Dr. Kong Chui Cheng, a senior researcher specializing in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), leads a two-day seminar on Aug.

27 to 28 at the Titus Brandsma Center in Quezon City.

The Philippine Hakka Association Inc. inducts its first set of officers on Aug. 21, 2025 at the Century Seafood Restaurant in Manila.

Philippine Consulate General Iric Cruz Arribas

Lucky Chinatown, Trinoma, SM North EDSA, Greenhills, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Landmark, SM Olongapo Central, SM Pampanga, Porta Vaga in Baguio and SM Megamall.

Polland Hopia Bakery keeps alive the tradition of making highquality, tasty hopia while expanding its offerings and reach. Whether you visit the store in Escolta or one of their many branches, you’ll find a wide variety of snacks. Julie Ann Lope

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

P-Pop boy group BGYO performed at the Summer Sonic Bangkok 2025, joining an international lineup that included Alicia Keys, Camila Cabello, Black Eyed Peas, and BABYMETAL

The event, held Aug. 23 and 24 at IMPACT Challenger Hall in Thailand, marked BGYO as the only Filipino act in the festival.

Members Gelo, Akira, JL, Mikki, and Nate performed their latest single “Headlines,” along with “The Light” (Thai version), “Heartstrings,” and “All These Ladies,” which reached Spotify Philippines’ Viral Top 50. They also sang Filipino tracks “Andito Lang” and “Gigil.”

The group’s Summer Sonic appearance was their second visit to Thailand this year, following a July performance at Boss CKM’s Dream Warrior Concert

BGYO also joined fellow Kapamilya acts at ASAP England on Aug. 30 at the BP Pulse Arena in Birmingham.

The band recently released a performance video for “Headlines,” which drew feedback

SHOWBIZ

LOS ANGELES , California —For a Filipino entertainment journalist like me, who spent a lifetime attending press conferences and red carpets in the Philippines and is now experiencing a bit of the same routine in the U.S., it’s one thing to attend a gathering of Fil-Am talents and community achievers, but another to cover an event by non-Filipinos where the atmosphere is interestingly different.

L.A. consequential: A Pinoy journalist’s experience in Hollywood

Here, you go beyond mingling with mostly Filipino-born immigrants or locals with Filipino roots, which is often a scenario where you find yourself joking that you must have been transported back to a spot somewhere in the Philippines. Here, you come in contact with a circle whose gestures and ways make you feel you’re in new territory, carrying the Philippine flag for a good cause

We’re talking about an entertainment event held last Sunday, right where the action is—Los Angeles. The media access I was provided, courtesy of a friend who wanted me to be there, allowed me to meet high-profile figures such as Kate Linder, a veteran actress with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame; decorated music producer Pepper Jay ; film producer John Duffy; and Dr. Eric Zuley, the CEO of eZWay Network and acknowledged main star of the big event amid the Labor Day long weekend.

The network, a multimedia service and software platform functioning as a digital ecosystem to promote brands, launched its new L.A. headquarters with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“I’m really happy for Eric. I’ve known him since he was first starting, from the beginning. He never gives up. So, I’m honored to be with him to cut the ribbon,” said Linder of The Young and The Restless soap opera.

The seasoned actress has portrayed the character Esther Valentine in that series for 43 years and counting. She received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2008, as the Philippines’ very own Lea Salonga , a Tony Award winner, will get hers next year.

world. An amiable PR guy, Freddy Krepistman, handed me his card and said he thought he’d seen me before. That felt like a warm welcome. Including me, I could count on one hand the attendees with Filipino roots. There was Van Dichoso of RiverRock Films, who accompanied the outfit’s CEO, Paul Bunch . Van’s business manager, Jessica Rodriguez, also graced the occasion.

Duffy, who’s working on a feature film about “an incredible story of an American boxer from Texas,” noted, “Great to be here at the ribbon cutting. eZWay has great ways of doing promotions and connecting everybody.”

Actor-model and casting director Carlos Heredia described the launch as “very important,” as L.A., in his words, “sets the wave.”

Linder also appeared in the 2023 comedy film A Little White Lie , starring Kate Hudson, Michael Shannon, and Don Johnson

Sunday’s occasion featured a red-carpet entrance for special guests covered by Hollywood media, including Michele Marotta, podcaster for Studio City Now, who also does photojournalism.

I didn’t feel like an odd man out. There’s a thrill in being among a handful of Filipinos in such an event, as if I had been pulled out of my comfort zone to be with important people from the other side of the showbiz

GMA Network led Philippine broadcast media across television, radio, and digital platforms from January to July 2025, according to audience measurement firms.

The network, which operates 115 TV stations and 21 radio stations, reached 83.8 percent of viewers nationwide, or about 60 million Filipinos, data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement showed. GMA and its channels GTV, I Heart Movies, and Heart of Asia recorded a combined net reach of 85.2 percent, or more than 61 million viewers.

GMA secured 27 of the 30 mostwatched programs during the period, including Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho, 24 Oras, and Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre . Other entries were Tolome! Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis, Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan/Pangil ng Maynila, Stars on the Floor, Pepito

Manaloto: Tuloy Ang Kuwento, The Clash 2025, and Magpakailanman

On digital platforms, GMA placed No. 20 in Tubular Labs’ global Leadership ranking for July, the highest for a Southeast Asian media company in the Entertainment and Media category. Its social media properties generated 5.6 billion video views in July alone, including 2.9 billion on Facebook, 1.5 billion on TikTok, 1.0 billion on YouTube and 198 million on Instagram.

From January to July, the network amassed more than 20 billion video views across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, surpassing ABS-CBN’s 16 billion. Data from Sprout Social also showed GMA’s official accounts on X and Instagram outpacing ABS-CBN in engagements as of late August. Tubular Labs reported GMA

Author Yugel Losorata (left) meets actress Kate Linder,

Actor-casting director Carlos Heredia poses for the camera at the launch of eZWay Network’s new headquarters in Los Angeles

Music producer Pepper Jay (right) with singersongwriter John Michael Ferrari

Film producer John Duffy being interviewed by Hollywood media

Well, with my ID as a member of the Filipino-American Press Club of California (FAPCCA) as partly my badge in interacting with beautiful people circling Hollywood, some of whom later received recognition for their achievements, I could not help but think that this experience also set a new tone for my days ahead, trying to further assimilate myself in California, dreaming.

DOH approves HPV DNA testing for cervical cancer

By Joyce Pañares

IF YOU’RE a woman who has ever had to undergo a Pap smear test, you know how uncomfortable, at best, it can be. I couldn’t even complete mine a few years ago. (I kept telling my doctor I would rather be sent to a difficult coverage than endure the same procedure again.)

The experience of a Pap smear test,

By Angelica Villanueva

Finvented by George Papanicolaou and introduced in 1941, has not changed in over 80 years, still using a brush and a speculum to collect cells from the cervix.

The good news is that the Department of Health has now approved the use of HPV DNA testing—a generally painless way to collect samples which, based on the recommendation of the Health

OR actress Max Collins

beauty has nothing to do with perfection and everything to do with self-love.

DNA screening

Technology Assessment Council, meets the minimum performance criteria of the World Health Organization for HPV screening tests.

In a recent DOH circular, a copy of which was obtained by Manila Standard, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa affirmed the “credibility and reliability of HTAC’s positive recommendation” on HPV DNA testing.

Ahead of the DOH approval, various stakeholders from the health, development, and local and national government upheld the findings of the Centralized Laboratory Model for HPV DNA Screening (CLAMS) pilot project, a milestone toward the elimination of cervical cancer in the country

Unlike conventional Pap smears and visual inspection methods, HPV DNA tests can identify the presence of high-risk HPV infections before they progress to cancer. This means women can be diagnosed earlier, with

far greater accuracy, and connected to timely treatment—ultimately saving more lives and easing the burden on health systems.

“Awareness is the first step— women need to know how early screening can impact their health. Next is accessibility: if testing is available in health centers, women can take it conveniently through self-sampling without burdening our healthcare system,” said Dr. Christia Padolina, Navotas City Administrator.

High-risk HPV causes almost all cervical cancer cases, yet fewer than one percent of Filipino women undergo regular screening amid barriers in screening coverage, public awareness, and health system capacity Through the CLAMS innovative huband-spoke network, women can collect cervical samples themselves, which are then transported to central laboratories for HPV DNA testing, enabling highvolume, highly accurate screening. The model also integrates thermal ablation

at the point of care to treat precancerous lesions.

“Self-sampling is a game changer because it allows women to collect their own specimens, removing barriers of discomfort and stigma. With samples processed through a centralized laboratory using highthroughput PCR, we ensure accuracy and efficiency without requiring a full hospital setup. This makes the model scalable, effective, and easily integrated into local health services— helping more women access lifesaving screening,” said Dr. Ingrid Magnata, country program manager, Jhpiego Philippines.

In the Philippines, 68 percent of women diagnosed with cervical cancer die within a year, an alarming consequence of late detection and limited access to timely care. Nearly 75 percent of cases are caught at advanced stages, when treatment is less effective and survival rates drastically drop.

The CLAMS pilot project was implemented over 18 months from 2023 to 2024 across five highly urbanized cities in Metro Manila— Manila, Quezon City, Navotas, Taguig, and Muntinlupa—in close collaboration with local government units, health offices, and Jhpiego

The CLAMS Phase 2 will expand HPV DNA testing to reach 10,000 women in Cebu, Davao City, and Taguig.

Over the years, Max has seen how beauty standards shift, but the pressure on women in the public eye remains the same. Tackling those expectations taught her that lasting confidence cannot come from outside validation alone.

“What I’ve learned throughout the years is that beauty is what makes you feel good. If people think you’re beautiful but you don’t feel it, then it’s not beauty. It comes from within. Makeup and enhancements are just tools—but the real goal is to feel confident in yourself,” she told Manila Standard Life

Body care routines expand beyond soap and water

BATH time is often treated as a quick necessity, but Watsons is promoting a more holistic view of body care that extends before and after the shower.

The retailer said its approach encourages consumers to see bathing as a ritual that nourishes the skin from start to finish. The campaign introduces products designed for each stage—pre-shower, during cleansing, and postbath care.

During the launch of her partnership with Ready, Set, Glow (RSG) as its new ambassador, which also doubled as her birthday celebration, Max shared how her views on beauty have evolved with time.

She then explained that embracing self-love also meant being honest about the steps she takes to feel her best. For her, openness breaks the stigma around treatments that many in showbiz quietly turn to but rarely acknowledge.

“I love medical enhancement. I love life enhancement. I love anything that makes you feel good. You only live one life. Why say no if it makes you happy? Just be careful, choose someone you trust, do your research, and hopefully everything goes well,” Max shared. Her openness grew out of years of

Max Collins

redefines beauty: ‘It’s about what makes you feel good’

being judged in the public eye.

“Ever since I was young, I’ve always heard things about my body, my face, that I’m too mestiza, that my features are too sharp. I’ve heard it all. But at the end of the day, I can only do so much. I’ll try my best, but that’s all I can do,” she said.

Instead of hiding behind the pressure, Max chose to acknowledge her insecurities and be transparent about her choices. She shared that she underwent procedures as part of her wellness routine.

“It doesn’t come easy. There’s a lot of

effort that goes into staying fit—working out, eating right, and sometimes medical help. I don’t want to gatekeep. If people ask why I look this way, I want to be honest,” the actress continued, stressing that no treatment can replace confidence and intention.

“I always try to fix up in the morning because I don’t want people to think I don’t care. I once read that when you look good, it’s a sign of respect to others. So for me, it’s not just about me, it’s about showing I value the people I meet,” added Max.

Now at 33, she emphasized that her definition of beauty is less about competing and more about gratitude.

“In showbiz, there’s always someone younger, someone better. All you can do is enjoy every moment. The journey is the destination,” she said.

Even under the spotlight, Max hopes her openness helps others embrace themselves without shame.

“You don’t want to please other people. You should really please yourself,” she stated.

For pre-shower preparation, items such as Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Moisturizing Body Oil and Bio-Oil Skincare Oil are presented to help soften skin and improve texture. Exfoliating scrubs like Fresh Skinlab Milk White Glutaboost Salt Scrub are also highlighted for removing dead skin cells.

During cleansing, Watsons recommends a twostep process using soap bars, such as GlutaMAX Lightening Soap, followed by hydrating body washes, including Safeguard Lemon Fresh Body Wash or gel-based options like Watsons Naturals Coffee Shower Gel

Post-bath care focuses on hydration and freshness. Products featured include DOVE Radiant + Care Dry Serum Niacinamide + Ceramides Deodorant, NIVEA Extra Bright 10 Super Vitamins Serum, SkinWhite Glutathione Lotion, and Snake Prickly Heat Cooling Powder. Applying moisturizers while the skin is still damp is encouraged to lock in hydration. Watsons said these routines will be showcased at its Bath & Body Event, “Celebrate Every Body, Every Glow,” on Sept. 5 at the MOA 7 Storefront. The event will feature demonstrations, self-care advice from wellness experts, and access to the highlighted products.

Shoppers can purchase bath and body essentials at Watsons stores nationwide or through the Watsons mobile app.

Health workers in Taguig assist women during the CLAMS pilot project for HPV DNA testing

Local health officials undergo mentoring on thermal ablation, a treatment integrated with HPV

Watsons promotes a holistic approach to bathing with preshower, cleansing, and postbath care products

Max Collins celebrates her birthday during the Ready, Set, Glow partnership launch Max Collins believes that beauty comes from selflove

Actress Max Collins is Ready, Set, Glow’s new ambassador

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

Writer

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,

Writer

JASPER VALDEZ,

By Nickie Wang

“D

ON’T wait until you look like you need it.”

exclusive to women.

“Start with something gentle for your face. Pick a product you can commit to, because results don’t happen overnight. It usually takes around six months before you see real changes,” he said.

The Bro Hub features 36 brands, including household names such as STR8, Old Spice, Gillette, Rexona Men, Nivea Men, Axe and Watsons Brand. New players like Garnier Men, American Crew, Maverick,

Bro Hub is elevating men’s grooming game

That was James Deakin’s advice at the Watsons Bro Hub, where men across generations came together this week to talk grooming, confidence, and the humble bar of soap.

“You only have one face, one body, you can’t mess around with it,” the television host said. “Looks and how you take care of yourself can open doors, whether you’re an influencer, on camera, or just walking into a job interview. People see discipline in how you present yourself. How can you convince someone you can handle bigger responsibilities if you can’t even take care of yourself?”

Deakin’s words was probabbly what the five-day event, which runs through Sept.

By Nickie Wang

BUILDING a brand often starts with a personal story, and Charlotte Winter has hers written all over her skin.

The model and social media personality has turned her struggles with complexion into something bigger: a skincare line inspired by the ingredients she discovered while living in Thailand.

6 at the SM Mall of Asia Atrium, wanted to convey. It’s Watsons’ first campaign dedicated entirely to men’s care and grooming. The Bro Hub includes workshops, product showcases, and a raffle, with three Nintendo Switch 2 consoles and 10 Watsons duffel bags filled with grooming essentials up for grabs.

Also during the Bro Hub media event, Gen Z social media personality Paco Berba admitted skincare once left him overwhelmed.

“In the past, I’d just suddenly cover my face, and when asked what skincare I used, I’d say, ‘All of a sudden? All of a sudden?’” he said with a laugh. His tip

Charlotte admits her fascination began during her stay in the country, where she noticed how locals swore by natural products. That curiosity grew into what she now calls Skintessential. Inspired by her own experience, she said skincare doesn’t have to be about chasing impossible standards.

for teenage boys: begin with the basics. “Start with what you’re comfortable with—maybe a good haircut, deodorant, or a new hair wax. From there, move to facial care. Ask friends who already have a routine. It doesn’t have to feel like a huge fountain overflowing all at once.”

Smart-working yuppie Gabby Salvador shared a similar journey.

As a teen, his idea of self-care was using a single bar of soap for everything. “As long as I started with the head and not the feet, I thought it was fine,” he said. His twin brother, a future dermatologist, changed that. “He taught me how important proper skincare is. I felt more confident once I put in

the effort. You know what that’s called now? Raising the bar — the bar of soap.”

Athlete and coach Paolo Javelona recalled the ’90s, when facial wash for men barely existed.

“It was just soap,” he said. Today, with fatherhood, basketball and coaching filling his schedule, he calls self-care an investment.

“My body is literally my source of income. Exercise, gym, skincare—they’re all part of the same package. At the end of the day, you have to present yourself well. You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

Rounding out the talks was Dr. Neil Isaguirre, who reminded men that skincare is no longer

The event underscores Watsons’ effort to broaden men’s access to grooming products. Beyond the popup, the retailer carries a wide selection of men’s care across 1,100 stores nationwide, as well as through its app and website. Features such as Click & Collect and Express Delivery make the process easier, while Watsons Club membership offers exclusive perks and promos.

For the men on stage, though, the real takeaway was simple: grooming is confidence. And as Deakin put it, the best time to start is now—not when the mirror tells you it’s too late.

Health experts stress prevention to avoid food poisoning

FOOD poisoning is often linked to hot summer months, but consuming contaminated food and drink can happen any time of year, Makati Medical Center said.

“Many germ-laden dishes taste no different from unspoiled food, so there’s no way of telling if you have food poisoning until you experience the classic symptoms— nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, headache, and even a fever,” said Dr. Mark Paul S. Castillo of MakatiMed. Symptoms may appear 30 minutes to eight hours after eating contaminated food, while some viruses, such as Hepatitis A, can take days or even months to show. Most cases resolve within 24 to 48 hours with hydration, but severe cases may lead to kidney failure, nerve or brain damage, and, in rare instances, death.

“Just cherish your puberty stage,” she tells young women who feel the pressure to fit in. “Your glow-up will come. You don’t need to spend so much or run to a glutathione drip right away just to feel beautiful.”

Charlotte says she learned the hard way that rushing the process only harms the skin further. Her mantra now? Trust the routine, not the quick fix.

And yes, she’s heard it all online. “When I go live on TikTok, some people comment, ‘Remove your filter,’ even when I don’t actually use one,” she says with a laugh. “When I finally achieved the skin I wanted, that’s when I realized we don’t need filters to feel beautiful.”

Still, breaking into the beauty industry hasn’t been as effortless as her glossy Instagram feed. Charlotte describes the market as “competitive and saturated,” and admits juggling her career as a model and influencer with running a business has been tricky. Mentorship from friends in business, she says, gave her the push to take entrepreneurship seriously. But her heart remains in the same place it began, with girls who look in the mirror and wish for better skin.

“I’ve experienced what it’s like to feel insecure about my skin, and I know many girls go through the same thing,” she says. “When I discovered skincare secrets in Thailand that worked for me, I knew I had to share them.” Her products, she explains, are designed for all skin types, with one key Thai ingredient at the core of the formulas. She even sought expert advice before adding it in.

MakatiMed stressed prevention as key,

reminding the public to keep food safe from preparation to storage.

Cleanliness is essential, Castillo said. Wash hands with soap and warm water before handling ingredients and cooked food. Use disposable gloves if there are wounds on the hands. Cooking utensils and surfaces should be washed thoroughly and dried before and after use.

Raw ingredients such as meat, poultry, and seafood should be rinsed and kept separate. Fruits and vegetables must also be cleaned properly— scrub firm produce like apples and cucumbers, and rinse leafy greens under running water before drying. Countertops, sinks, and sponges should be cleaned regularly, with sponges replaced weekly. Food should be cooked at recommended times and temperatures. Hot food must be eaten immediately or kept warm, while cold dishes should be served in small portions and stored in the fridge until needed. Utensils must be properly washed, and separate serving spoons or tongs should be assigned to avoid crosscontamination. Double-dipping should be avoided. Leftovers should be placed in clean, covered containers, stored in the freezer, and consumed within three to four days. They must be reheated before serving.

Castillo cautioned against assuming refrigerated food stays fresh indefinitely. “Check for molds and weird smells. Or better yet, when in doubt, throw it away. It’s better to be safe than sorry,” he said.

Dr. Neil Isaguirre encourages men to start a skincare routine, emphasizing the importance of consistency and patience for results

James Deakin emphasized the importance of grooming and self-care at the Watsons Bro Hub, highlighting how appearance can impact opportunities and convey discipline

Gabby Salvador learns the importance of proper skincare, leading to increased confidence

Social media personality Paco Berba advises teenage boys to start with basic skincare, like a good haircut or deodorant, and gradually incorporate facial care

Athlete and coach Paolo Javelona emphasizes the importance of self-care, including skincare, as an investment in his well-being and professional success

online

favorite CAMOU and South Korea’s Grafen are also on display, alongside BIC, Irish Spring, Bench, Penshoppe, Oxygen, Hairworks, Luxe Organix, Gatsby, Freshmen and more.