Manila Standard - 2025 September 15 - Monday

By Ram Superable

AFP goes on ‘red alert’

Military readies for Sept. 21 but says its just precautionary

By Rex Espiritu, Vince Lopez, and Rio N. Araja

ALL units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have been placed on red alert ahead of anticipated demonstrations to be staged by multiple organizations in protest of massive corruption in the government’s flood control program on and before September 21.

By Vince Lopez and Vito Barcelo

and Local Government

Tulfo to probe casinos link to DPWH gamblers

By Ram Superable

“I thought they strictly implement their ‘Know Your Client’ or KYC policy? Why didn’t they investigate what kind of business or profession

“Yes,

rity threats to DPWH employees.

“We are only on the security side. We don’t know anything about forensic infrastructure, but there are many threats

By Vito Barcelo and Rio N. Araja

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) is set to proclaim Gabriela Women’s Party as a replacement for the disqualified Duterte Youth Party-list in the 20th Congress. Comelec chairman George Garcia said Gabriela party-list first nominee Sarah

Two major biz groups back probe body

By Othel V. Campos, Rio Araja, and Ram Superable

By Othel V. Campos

FACES OF PROTEST. Bikers join the #KontrakTour, right photo, to invite people to participate in the Sept. 21 protest rally against corruption at the Rizal Park while mothers from various communities gathered at Litex Market in Quezon City yesterday for a Zumba-protest against corruption. Norman Cruz, Kadamay FB page

cratic institutions and rule of law, not through extra-constitutional means.”

Meanwhile, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Sunday said it is monitoring the groups scheduled to participate in the anti-corruption rally at the Quirino Grandstand on September 21.

“Our intelligence monitoring is also to see if this will be just a simple gathering or if there are other agendas, as you said, for those who will join this protest. So right now, we are finding out what the background of this protest action will be on the 21st,” Police Major Hazel Asilo, the NCRPO’s spokesperson, said in a televised interview.

“Right now, based on our monitoring, we don’t see any groups that might have a different agenda, but we are continuing to monitor whether this will have a negative impact on us,” she added.

for dispersal, crowd management, and security. We have security plans that have been set,” he disclosed in a separate interview.

to go on strike this week.

“Malevolent, underhanded, foul, and desperate. If there’s a song called Achy Breaky Heart, this one is Faky Breaky News,” he said.

The post, published Saturday night by a page called “OneTV Philippines,” claimed that Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano had secured enough support to assume the Senate presidency. The page describes itself on Facebook as a digital news network based in Davao City and Pagadian City.

The veteran lawmaker reminded the public that there is a proper procedure for any change in Senate leadership. He explained that senators seeking a shift must present a resolution signed by at least 13 members directly to the sitting Senate president.

“Then the sitting Senate President resigns at the opening of the session, not through a media outlet, whether nationally recognized or obscure,” Lacson said. The controversy followed a legitimate change in leadership earlier this month, when Vicente Sotto III, formerly minority leader, was elected Senate president. Lacson was chosen as Senate president pro tempore and also assumed the chairmanship of the Blue Ribbon Committee.

In a statement, Senate President Vicente Sotto III also urged the public to be vigilant against misleading content online.

“Let us be cautious of fake news pages spreading reports that only add to the turmoil our country is experiencing today,” he said.

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri also denied the rumors, saying all members of the majority bloc remain committed to the current leadership.

“Fake news. In fact, we have a lunch and caucus tomorrow and all members of the Majority have confirmed. So let’s just focus on work instead of creating intrigue,” he said.

For his part, Acting PNP Chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. said a “no permit, no rally” policy will be enforced on mass actions scheduled in the coming days.

In an interview, Nartatez urged rally organizers to secure the necessary permits to avoid dispersal.

He also reminded would-be demonstrators that the EDSA People Power Monument and the EDSA Shrine are not “freedom parks,” so the use of these venues for protests is prohibited.

“The EDSA shrine is not a freedom park,” the country’s top cop said.

“We have readied our security plans

Groups that have announced their intention to participate in upcoming protest actions so far include the Akbayan party-list, Anakbayan, Anakpawis, Alyansa ng Nagkakaisang Mamamayan, Alpha Kappa Rho, Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals, Clergy for Good Governance, Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines, Duterte Die-hard Supporters, Kilusang Mayo Uno, Tindig Pilipinas, and student organizations from Ateneo de Manila, Miriam College, and the University of the Philippines, among others.

Furthermore, at least two major transport groups have announced plans

Yesterday, the Samahang Manibela Mananakay at Nagkaisang Terminal ng Transportasyon (Manibel) said it would hold a three-day nationwide strike from September 17 to 19, to protest corruption in flood control projects.

“Diesel excise tax only goes to the luxury [goods] of politicians’ children,” it said in a statement.

Manibela said its members will also participate in the rally at Luneta Park in Manila on Sunday.

Likewise, the group Piston said its members will go on strike on Thursday to dramatize their indignation over the flood control fiasco.

“Hearings and investigations alone are no longer enough. Someone must be held accountable! Someone must be put in jail,” Piston wrote in a social media post.

cities, giving them access to rice at just P20 per kilo.

“It’s a promise being fulfilled—a fight against hunger that meets people where they are. We are grateful to our partner agencies for making this possible in record time,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

The DA is implementing the rollout in coordination with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), which helped identify the beneficiaries.

Each eligible driver or operator will

be able to buy up to 10 kilos of rice per month at the subsidized price. Initial distributions will be held at the Bureau of Animal Industry in Quezon City for 17,633 beneficiaries; the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority in Navotas City for 1,001 beneficiaries; Barangay Pandan in Angeles City, Pampanga, for 9,961 beneficiaries; Food Terminal Inc. in Cebu City for 24,742 beneficiaries; and Tagum City for 3,650 beneficiaries.

Thereafter, the distribution hubs will include the Bureau of Animal Industry and Agricultural Development Center in Quezon City, the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority in Navotas, the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division in Cebu, Food Terminal Inc. in Angeles, and the AMAD office

in Tagum.

Originally targeted at senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, and indigent households, the P20 Rice Program has since expanded to cover minimum wage earners, farmers, fisherfolk, public school teachers, non-teaching DepEd staff, and beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Walang Gutom program.

“We are fully committed to President Marcos’ directive to extend this program to 15 million households by 2026—and to keep it going until the end of his term in 2028. From city markets to rural roads, the message is clear: Benteng Bigas, Meron Na! is no longer a campaign promise but a reality,” Tiu Laurel said.

to people, so we are among those who help,” he told reporters.

Last week, the DPWH temporarily suspended its uniform policy for employees to protect them from “bullying and harassment” amid a corruption probe.

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said in a memorandum order dated September 10 that officials and employees of the department are “excused from wearing the prescribed office uniform until further notice.”

Similarly, the DPWH has enliste d the help of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in inspecting flood control construction sites to ensure their quality amid the discovery of substandard and even nonexistent projects.

Dizon admitted that the DPWH lacks personnel to inspect thousands of projects nationwide, making the assistance of other agencies crucial.

“They will also provide security to ensure transparency and accountability during the inspection process,” he added

On Friday, the AFP said it is prepared to assist the DPWH in inspecting alleged anomalous flood control projects.

“The AFP, through the Corps of Engineers and in coordination with other units, remains ready to provide support when directed,” AFP Spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla told Manila Standard. She noted that aside from conducting site inspections, soldiers will also provide security where needed. their players are into?” Tulfo said.

“Their surnames on their fake IDs don’t have any hint that they are tycoons or from billionaire families,” he added.

Dismissed district engineer Henry Alcantara reportedly used the alias Joseph Villegas to enter casinos and gamble.

Assistant district engineer Brice Hernandez allegedly used a fake identification card bearing the name Marvin De Guzman.

Project engineer Jaypee Mendoza was also accused of adopting the alias Peejay Asuncion to conceal his identity.

“They didn’t even raise a single red flag or report this to the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), despite these individuals bringing in hundreds of millions in cash to the casino every single week,” Tulfo said. The senator suggested that casinos had little incentive to scrutinize the money flow since large transactions meant bigger profits. He emphasized that their failure to act enabled public officials to continue diverting government funds unchecked.

heard and their rights championed in the halls of power.”

Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila de Lima also hailed the Comelec announcement, saying Congress “needs a strong and steady voice that will stand up for the interest of women, and a partner in the fight against irregularities and crooked government policies.”

In a radio interview, Garcia cited the Supreme Court’s affirmation of the disqualification of Duterte Youth due to failure to demonstrate sufficient representation of the youth sector.

The proclamation will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 17, with Gabriela’s having garnered the second highest number of votes in the 2022 elections.

“If we are not mistaken, the Comelec will proclaim former congresswoman

Elago who is the number one nominee of Gabriela,” Garcia said.

“This announcement comes at an especially crucial point in the fight against corruption when the people need genuine representation in a government dominated by big businesses and political dynasties,” Gabriela said in a statement.

Time and again, it is the poor and marginalized, especially women, who bear the brunt of corruption and misuse

of public funds. The people need a fearless voice in Congress who will relentlessly pursue accountability and push for laws that ensure transparency and integrity in government,” it added.

“We sincerely thank all those who trusted us and the tireless struggle of women, LGBTQIA+, youth and various supporters to proclaim the Gabriela Women’s Party as a true, militant and patriotic representative of women in Congress,” Elago said.

investigate anomalous flood control and related projects, as well as recommend the filing of appropriate charges arising from the irregularities.

In a related development, Senate President Vicente Sotto III eyes the immediate passage of Senate Bill 1215, which seeks to establish an Independent People’s Commission (IPC).

Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) president Enunina Mangio said the upcoming panel, tasked with investigating anomalies in flood control and related projects over the past decade, demonstrates “a strong signal of the President’s political will to address infrastructure anomalies, especially in flood control.”

Mangio welcomed the appointment of industry veterans and independent experts to the ICI, citing Singson’s experience in large-scale project execution,

former procurement board chairperson Rossana Fajardo’s institutional expertise in governance, and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong’s investigative background.

“Together, this balanced team combines operational, institutional, and investigative strengths that can translate findings into actionable reforms,” Mangio noted.

She emphasized that the ICI’s success will depend on three key elements: adequate funding for a technical secretariat, full independence from political influence, and seamless inter-agency support. She said these measures are needed to ensure that referrals to the Department of Justice, the Ombudsman, and Civil Service Commission are acted upon within strict time frames.

The Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) echoed PCCI’s support, with chairperson Beth Lee highlighting the ICI’s unique mix of technical and investigative expertise.

“The ICI’s rare blend of execution

know-how, forensic financial skills, and investigative rigor is exactly the kind of institutional muscle FPI has been calling for. It operationalizes our vision of a procurement and infrastructure ecosystem where compliance is rewarded, corruption is punished, and Philippine industry competes on quality—not on who can game the system,” Lee said. Lee noted that cleaning up procurement processes will dismantle entrenched networks that inflate costs and distort competition, reducing what FPI calls the “corruption premium” that burdens compliant manufacturers. Lower costs, she added, will help legitimate firms secure cheaper financing for capital upgrades and attract higher-quality contractors more likely to source from accredited local producers of steel, cement, and fabricated components.

“The ICI’s work will clean up a decade of flood control anomalies, restore trust in public works, and cut the corruption premium that drives up costs. That means cheaper financing, stronger

investor confidence, and a manufacturing sector that wins on standards, integrity, and quality—now and for years to come,” Lee added.

Both PCCI and FPI underscored the broader economic benefits of a credible infrastructure watchdog, saying it could become a cornerstone institution to safeguard public funds and ensure infrastructure projects deliver real value to the Filipino people.

“First of all, we welcome the new two commissioners in the ICI since their competence has already been proven, particularly DPWH secretary Babes Singson,” he said.

“We respect the decision of the President to appoint Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong,” he added.

According to Ridon, chairman of the House Committee on Infrastructure, the ICI must look into the statements of Magalong not because of any conflict of interest, but because of his prejudicial statements against the members of the panel. Meanwhile, Sotto said he will formal-

The lawmaker announced that he intends to file a resolution calling for an investigation into casinos that turn a blind eye to questionable transactions.

“If the casinos did their part in monitoring and reporting the transactions, Alcantara, Hernandez, and Mendoza would have been apprehended immediately, and their pilfering of public funds could have been stopped,” Tulfo said.

ly ask President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to certify the measure as urgent to ensure its speedy approval by Congress.

The bill aims to institutionalize the proposed commission created through a presidential executive order, making it a permanent law rather than a temporary directive.

“While the President’s Executive Order is immediate, my bill ensures permanence. The IPC will not just be a stop-gap measure, it will institutionalize oversight and prevent instances like this from happening again in the future,” he said.

Sotto said the IPV would not only investigate projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways, but also those under other agencies with infrastructure programs.

Among the agencies cited were the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Health, and the Department of Education.

Sotto said corruption extends beyond road and bridge construction, to include farm-tomarket roads, hospitals, and schools.

FINAL DAY. Student supporters and family members wait along Mendiola during the last day of the Bar examinations. Norman Cruz

Dizon greenlights legitimate

DPWH flood control projects

By Vito Barcelo

DEPARTMENT of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary

Vince Dizon has assured that despite the controversies surrounding flood control initiatives, legitimate flood control projects will proceed, with a focus on regions that require them to protect people from disasters.

He said the objective is to execute these projects in an efficient and effective manner, reducing the potential danger to lives and properties brought by heavy rains or typhoons.

“In the coming weeks, I will form a new team that will work on these flood control projects that were destroyed, ghost, or substandard and ensure that no corruption will happen,” Dizon said.

“We will hold the contractors involved accountable and we will recover the money spent on these projects because they have a warranty according to the law,” the DPWH chief added.

Dizon noted he also uncovered a “pattern” in the bidding, award, and payment of ghost and substandard flood-control projects in Oriental Mindoro. He plans to file criminal charges against officials and contractors involved in the scheme.

He emphasized the need for a science-based approach to flood control, suggesting the use of the University of the Philippines’ NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) system to identify high-risk areas. This aims to ensure that funds are allocated efficiently and effectively.

Romualdez says expand ‘Pag-Abot’

By Rio N. Araja

HOUSE Speaker Martin Romualdez on Sunday called on the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to further expand its “Pag-Abot” program that provides both short-term and long-term assistance to street dwellers and disadvantaged families, enabling them to pursue sustainable livelihoods and live with dignity.

“The Pag-Abot Program is a critical social safety net that fills gaps in our poverty alleviation measures. It is also proof of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s strong commitment to eradicate

poverty in line with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” he said. Romualdez cited Executive Order No.

AFP concludes sea military drills with US, Japan forces

By Rex Espiritu

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in partnership with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), concluded the 11th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) held on September 12–13, 2025, in the West Philippine Sea, despite the presence of Chinese warships in the area.

For the exercise, the AFP deployed the BRP Jose Rizal (FF150), an AW109 anti-submarine helicopter, a Philippine Air Force search-andrescue aircraft, a C-208B Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft, and four FA-50 fighter jets.

The United States contributed the USS John Finn (DDG113), a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, and two MH-60R helicopters. Meanwhile, Japan deployed the JS Osumi (LST4001), showcasing its amphibious capabilities and readiness for combined maritime operations.

During the activity, BRP Jose Rizal issued a radio challenge to a vessel of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA-N) that was spotted operating within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

“This is Philippine Navy warship FF150, in accordance with Republic Act 12064, the Philippine Maritime Zone Act, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of which you are part, and the 2016 Arbitral Award. You are advised that you are sailing in the Philippine exclusive economic zone,” said the Philippine Navy’s radio challenge.

52 of 2024 signed by President Marcos on Jan. 18, 2024, which formalized the Pag-Abot Program as a key government initiative to reach out to and support vulnerable, disadvantaged, and hard-toreach populations in the Philippines.

The call came after the DSWD distributed farming implements to 521 Aeta families in Barangay Maruglo, Capas, Tarlac, as part of its continuing efforts to help indigenous peoples become economically self-reliant and avoid resorting to begging in urban areas, particularly during the Christmas season.

The DSWD’s recent package of support for the Aeta families included 50 carabaos, 10 hand tractors with trailers,

nine mini-tiller cultivators, 10 grasscutters, 10 water pumps, 33 knapsack sprayers, six power sprayers, four mini rice threshers, and three rice mills. These were on top of the 91 carabaos earlier provided by the agency following the rescue and reintegration of Aeta families who had gone to Metro Manila in December 2023.

“These farm implements for our Aeta brothers and sisters in Tarlac are not just tools to till the land. They are also symbols of hope — hope that with hard work and determination, supported by responsive government programs, a brighter future is within reach for their families and communities,” Romualdez said.

IN BRIEF

Soldiers kill 1 rebel, capture two in Samar

A SUSPECTED member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed while two others were captured in a clash with soldiers in Paranas, Samar, on Saturday, Sept.13.

The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division (8ID) said troopers from the 46th Infantry Battalion were conducting security operations in Barangay Concepcion when the insurgents opened fire..

A brief gunbattle ensued, but the rebels retreated. The troops launched hot pursuit, resulting in the killing of Gerry dela Cruz, alias “Justin,” and the arrest of two others.

Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, 8ID commander, lauded the troops for their “vigilance and dedication” and said the operations were steadily dismantling the armed capability of the communist movement in Samar. Rex Espiritu

Cops nab PCG officer selling loose firearms

A MEMBER of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) was arrested by operatives of the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) while allegedly selling an unlicensed gun in San Simon, Pampanga.

CIDG acting chief, Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II said the suspect identified as alias “Ray,” is an active member of PCG and presently assigned at a Coast Guard Station in Manila. The suspect was arrested while delivering a semi-automatic rifle to a buyer following online transactions.

Manila Standard tried to get the PCG’s side, but received no response as of presstime. Marvin Lopez

Villagers surrender 21 loose guns in Cotabato

RESIDENTS of Carmen and Pikit towns in Cotabato voluntarily surrendered 21 high-powered firearms to the Philippine Army’s 602nd Infantry (Liberator) Brigade on Friday, in what military officials hailed as another step toward lasting peace in the province. Lt. Col. Erwin Jay Dumaghan, commanding officer of the 40th Infantry (Magiting) Battalion, said the weapons were turned over to his unit in Barangay Ladtingan, Pikit, as a result of the government’s continuing campaign against the proliferation of loose guns.

The surrendered cache included seven M16 rifles, one M14 rifle, two M203 grenade launchers, six 40mm RPGs, and five .50 caliber Barrett rifles. The firearms were subsequently presented to Brig. Gen. Ricky Bunayog, chief the 602nd Brigade, in a ceremony attended by local officials, community leaders, and policemen. Rex Espiritu

AFTER THE BLAZE.

In an attempt to salvage any usable belongings, men sift through the rubbles in the aftermath of a conflagration that swept through their community called Happy Land, in Tondo, Manila on Saturday night, leaving some 1,000 families homeless. Norman Cruz

Army, MILF promise to protect BARMM polls from disruptions

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine Army and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Lanao have reaffirmed their commitment to work together in ensuring peaceful and orderly regional elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Commanders and leaders of the two entities vowed to protect the BARMM polls from any form of “external disruption” that could threaten the democratic process.

The bilateral collaboration was made during a meeting between Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., chief

of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division, and BARMM member of Parliament Abdullah “Commander Bravo” Macapaar, head of the MILF’s northwestern Mindanao front.

Barroquillo visited Macapaar in the latter’s administrative base in Munai town, Lanao del Norte, on Friday in

a gesture of keeping the gains of the Bangsamoro normalization alive.

During the visit, both leaders agreed on the need to ensure that the BARMM election on Oct. 13 will be peaceful and credible.

Macapaar pledged his “continued support to the peace process,” underscoring that while his community in Lanao del Norte is not part of the BARMM election, they are “committed to help regional stability and prevent any disruption that may affect the polls.”

“We reaffirm our pledge to uphold the gains of the peace process and to prevent violence or intimidation that could undermine peace in nearby areas.

The MILF stands ready to coordinate with the Armed Forces of the Philip-

AFP salutes reserve force on 46th National Reservist Week

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ended its observance of the 46th National Reservist Week with an event honoring their contributions to national security.

The affair with the theme “Katuwang sa Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas,” was attended by Defense Undersecretary Ireneo Espino, along with AFP chief Gen. Romeo S Brawner Jr.

and Maj. Gen. Gerold Gagan, deputy chief for Reserve Force Development, as well as other key defense and military officials.

During the ceremony, outstanding reservist units and individual personnel were recognized for their exemplary service.

The event also featured demonstrations of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) op -

erations and war game simulations, showcasing the skill, preparedness, and operational capability of the AFP Reserve Force.

In his remarks, Brawner emphasized the vital role of the reservists in national security and unity.

“Your service reminds us that defending the nation is not just the job of those in uniform, but a responsibility shared by every Filipino. You

embody the spirit of Bayanihan, showing that when we unite, there is no challenge too great for our people,” he said.

The culminating event reflected the AFP’s continuing efforts to inspire more Filipinos to serve and recognize those who have chosen to answer the call of duty to the nation.

Charity caravan rolls out on PBBM b-day

By Jessica M. Bacud

ILAGAN City—A “Handog ng Pangulo: Serbisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat” charity caravan rolled out here on Saturday and served over 15,500 residents, providing essential services through collaboration between national government agencies and the provincial government of Isabela on September 13, 2025.

Undersecretary Marlo Iringan of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) described the caravan as a significant way celebrate President Marcos’ 68th birthday, out that the President preferred to extend government services directly to the people rather than accept gifts. Meanwhile, Isabela provincial administrator lawyer Christopher

Mamauag highlighted the tie-up between national agencies and the Isabela provincial government under Gov. Rodito Albano to ensure the seamless implementation of aid and initiatives. For the key services, the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) provided medical check-ups, oral health kits, and health education to 353 individuals, focusing on preventive care and addressing physical and psychosocial needs. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Isabela released scholarship allowances to 948 beneficiaries, facilitated free assessment and certification for 228 workers, and enrolled 789 individuals in its TVET program. The agency also conducted skills demonstrations in bread, pastry, barista, and bartending, attracting over 1,300 participants.

pines, the Bangsamoro leadership, and local stakeholders to ensure that stability is maintained during the elections,” Macapaar said in a statement.

Barroquillo welcomed Macapaar’s pronouncements, stressing that the credibility of the BARMM election depends not only on polling sites within the region, but also on maintaining order in surrounding areas.

“The engagement aimed to reinforce the gains of normalization and ensure the safety of communities, and guarantee that the BARMM elections can proceed without external disruption,” Barroquillo said. He said the Army’s posture was anchored on partnership and impartiality.

Galvez:

Uphold spirit of ‘86 Mt. Data peace pact

PRESIDENTIAL peace adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. on Sunday urged Filipinos to” uphold” the spirit of the 1986 Mt. Data Peace Accord, or Sipat, as the Cordillera marks the 39th anniversary of the historic agreement that ended decades of conflict in the region.

The pact, signed between the government and the Cordillera Bodong Administration–Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CBA-CPLA), paved the way for the creation of the Cordillera Administrative Region through Executive Order 220.

Galvez said the agreement not only brought peace and development to the Cordillera, but also reflected the determination of its people to achieve meaningful autonomy.

“As we celebrate this year’s National Peace Consciousness Month with the theme ‘Mapayapang Bukas, Abot-Kamay sa Bagong Pilipinas,’ let us be reminded that a peaceful tomorrow is no longer an aspiration but is now within our reach,” he said.

The peace adviser added that building peace is a shared responsibility and called on communities to “nurture a culture of peace, mutual understanding, and solidarity” in line with President Marcos’ vision of a just and lasting peace.

“Together, let us honor the spirit of the Sipat by promoting peace, reconciliation, and unity as we build a stronger and more peaceful Bagong Pilipinas,” Galvez said. Rex Espiritu

RESERVISTS’ DEMO. Army reservists demonstrate their own skills

ISABELA MARKS PBBM’S BIRTHDAY The province of Isabela under Gov. Rodito Albano partakes of the celebration of President Marcos’ 68th birthday with various charitable undertakings including a ‘Handog ng Pangulo: Serbisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat’ caravan. Jessica M. Bacud

OPINION

FLOOD control projects, some “ghosts,” while almost everything else sub-standard, are but one of the manifestations of graft and corruption in this and previous governments.

As far back as after the Mount Pinatubo eruption, when the rains sent lahar cascading down Central Luzon’s rivers, the collusion between contractors and government officials produced deliberately sub-standard dikes built to “melt” with every giant rush of water.

The project overseer then was later appointed DPWH secretary by a president whose province was the worst hit by Pinatubo’s lahar.

But that wasn’t just it.

The lahar that dried up in the riverbeds became quick fortune for the province’s top official, who levied a “fee” for every truckload hauled by contractors and dealers. The fee for the sand hauled was supposed to go to provincial coffers, but much of it went to deep pockets. That top official now sits in the chamber of the “august.”

But flood control projects are not the only sources of “infrastructure” booty.

There are school buildings. Congress lamented the lack of classrooms for a population that grows exponentially, so the DepEd was mandated to fill the shortage, with funds that have grown to trillions through the years allocated to the department. But teachers have no expertise in construction. So DepEd funds are transferred to the DPWH. The result? School buildings whose roofs are blown off even if the winds are not that strong; toilets that have faulty plumbing; ceilings that peel off shortly after turn-over, and many more defects.

The reason? Graft and corruption. The commissions get bigger and bigger, because of E-di and Pa-ti. “E di ako, at pati ako.”

A retired senator showed fellow legislators the way to use their pork effectively, by asking the Fil-Chinese Federation to build schools from his allocations at a fraction of what DPWH charged DepEd. Did anyone follow his example? Nyet.

Then there are the farm-to-market roads, once the favorite of our “honorable” congressmen. Farm-to-market became “farm-to-pocket.” But no one has been punished, and the public simply resigned themselves to the reality of clay and stones graded by a “pison” passed off as “built” roads.

Once upon a not to be forgotten time, the Department of Agriculture bought 10 times over-priced “foliar” fertilizers with no productive value, distributed these to almost all congressional districts, Makati and other concrete “farmlands” included. Cases were filed with the Sandiganbayan against the brains behind the scam, and almost all DA regional directors. Years after, when the brouhaha was forgotten, the brains behind the scam was

exonerated, yet to this day, the regional directors who were ordered to distribute the useless fertilizers to farmers are still being tried, their savings lost to costly litigation expenses, while the sleazy guy whose orders they followed is “untouchable.”

As if farm-to-pocket was not enough ways and means to make hay charged to taxpayers, irrigation projects intended to bring water to parched farms were also used in nefarious schemes to make more hay.

Irrigation ditches were dug up, “papered” over with thin concrete, but with no sources of water. “May canal na, gusto nyo pa ng tubig?” corrupt NIA officials laughed, until an enraged PNoy chopped off their agency’s head.

Let us not allow crooks to extinguish the fire in our rage or our future will die

The Department of Budget and “Management” centralized procurement by putting up a PS-DBM, so that commonly used supplies can be purchased in bulk. That made sense, but that too was manipulated by “geniuses.”

What happened? The most recent egregious procurement deals that went through PS-DBM included laptops for teachers, and even urgently needed pandemic supplies.

Whispers in the DBM and elsewhere in government are very loud about who made piles of money in some of these deals, including one who eventually became the legislature’s budget czar, and under whose “stewardship” the 2025 budget, dubbed the most corrupt in our history, was mangled.

Sinawsawan na ang lahat, not just in the last three years, but ever since.

Don’t stop there.

What about the procurement of medicines and vaccines, some under-dosage, some soon to expire, bought through rigged bids?

Then these are allowed to lie there, and expire there, while poor patients in public hospitals “lie there, and they die there.”

Our legislators are trying mightily to pin down the contractors, as if they are the most guilty.

They conscript the sleazy officials of the DPWH to tar each other’s “house,” making them sing songs composed by the “honorables.” “Rage, rage against the dying of the light”, Dylan Thomas wrote to protest the inevitability of death.

Let us not allow crooks to extinguish the fire in our rage or our future will die.

Defending nations from corrosive capital

AS DEPUTY Managing Director of Stratbase Group, I had the privilege to participate in the 2025 Center for International Private Enterprise Global Conference in Washington, DC, where experts, business leaders, and policy advocates from across the world discussed one of the most urgent threats to modern economies: corrosive capital.

CIPE, an affiliate of the US Chamber of Commerce and a pillar of the National Endowment for Democracy, stands at the forefront of defending democratic institutions through economic empowerment and rule-of-law-based investment. The conference theme – “Building Resilient Economies Through MarketDriven Investment” – underscored how corrosive capital – opaque, state-backed financing – has become a geopolitical tool. Nowhere is this more evident than in the Indo-Pacific, where countries like the Philippines face asymmetric threats masked as development deals or foreign investment.

CIPE’s senior leadership – Andrew Wilson, Executive Director; Eric Hontz, Director for Center for Accountable

High hopes for the ICI

THE President has named two members of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, a body created by Executive Order 94 released on Sept. 11. He is expected to name the chairperson soon.

The two members are a former Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson, and SGV Country Managing Partner Rosanna Fajardo. Both have proven competence and integrity in their respective fields.

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong has been named special adviser.

The ICI is tasked to, “on complaint or motu proprio, hear, investigate, receive, gather, and evaluate evidence, intelligence reports, and information, against all government officials and employees, and any other individual, involved in anomalies, irregularities, and misuse of funds in the planning, financing, and implementation of government flood control and other infrastructure projects nationwide.”

The creation of the independent commission was driven by recent revelations of collusion between private contractors, public works

support for democratic values.

Empowering local institutions and leveraging market-driven tools, he argued, will build economies resilient to authoritarian pressure.

Investment; and Cathy Tai, Director for Asia and the Pacific – outlined the growing risks. In an era of great power rivalry, investment is no longer neutral. It either strengthens institutions or erodes them. Their message was clear: support constructive capital – transparent, rulesbased investment – and reject corrosive influence.

Economic sovereignty isn’t about closing doors. It’s about choosing who we open them to, and on what terms

Hon. Peter Roskam, Chairperson of the National Endowment for Democracy, reinforced this vision. He stressed the need to counter corrosive capital through transparency, rule of law, and

The panel discussions reflected this coherent vision. In “Good Governance, Better Business,” moderated by Ambassador Lisa Gable, Neil Bradley (US Chamber of Commerce), Rick Johnston (Citi), Teruko Wada (Keidanren USA), and John Dickerman (Business Council of Canada) emphasized that strong institutions and regulatory clarity are essential to attract and retain sound investments.

Panel two, “Business Leadership in Building Economic Resilience,” moderated by CIPE’s Jeff Lightfoot, featured Margaret Olele (American Business Council Nigeria), former Colombian Vice President Marta Lucía Ramírez, and Bulgarian lawmaker Delyan Dobrev. They emphasized the role of private sector leadership in pushing back against corrosive influence through transparency and inclusive growth.

In the third panel, “Rethinking Infrastructure Finance,” moderated by Becky Johnson, Kwame Owino (Institute of Economic Affairs, Kenya) and Nishan de Mel (Verité Research, Sri Lanka) outlined the risks of hidden debt and poor public finance. Henry Oporto

We hope truth can be uncovered, devoid of drama

officials, and politicians who all partook of hefty sums allocated to flood control projects in the national budget. In the grand scheme, however, significant portions of the budgeted amount are divided among the “participants,” leaving a small amount barely enough for the actual project. In some cases, there lies nothing where flood-prevention infrastructure must be.

These stories and accusations have inflamed the public. Already, mass gatherings have been held in some places while a bigger gathering is expected to take place on Sept. 21.

But in the midst of accusations

Castro (Fundación Milenio, Bolivia) and Farrukh Irnazarov (Central Asian Development Institute) shared how stronger fundamentals and governance attract quality investment.

I spoke in the fourth panel, “Practical Tools to Map, Identify, and Track Corrosive Capital.” Experts from North Macedonia, Armenia, Colombia, and the Philippines shared methods to follow opaque capital, enhance investment screening, and ensure funds support democratic, sustainable growth.

In the Philippines, this is clear and present threat. The $24 billion in Chinese investment pledges from 2016 –promising ports, railways, dams, and telecoms – mostly vanished. Where projects materialized, they brought debt traps, environmental damage, and sovereign compromises.

The Chico River Pump Irrigation, Kaliwa Dam, and the canceled Safe Philippines surveillance system serve as warnings. Strategic infrastructure, built without transparency, becomes a channel for influence-- not development. Corrosive capital binds, distorts, and undermines.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said it best: economic security is national security. Pulse Asia data shows 73 percent of Filipinos want to assert our rights in the West Philippine Sea, despite China’s aggression. Only 7 percent see China as

and counter accusations among the parties of interest, what has been lost is a firm anchor on the truth. How then can we tell what the truth is when everybody seems to be speaking merely to protect their own interest, or keep up appearances?

The individuals handpicked for the ICI prompt hope among our people that the truth can be uncovered devoid of drama and innuendos, but based only on facts and evidence.

We must remember, too, that we have only been talking about flood control projects in the past three years. We surmise there is a more menacing picture if we consider all other infrastructure projects from previous years. The ICI is expected to look into projects from as far back as 10 years.

Investigations held in both Houses of Congress will always be suspected of being skewed. Decisive action by an independent body, composed of members with stellar credentials and reputations, are infinitely better.

We take some comfort in the thought that the ICI will do its job, and well, as the hapless common Filipino taxpayer deserves.

an economic partner. But the path forward isn’t isolation. Over 80 percent of our equity inflows in 2024 came from Japan, the UK, Singapore, and the US – democratic partners that respect our sovereignty and fuel real growth. That’s the model we must strengthen.

CIPE and its global partners are building defenses against corrosive capital – using tools like ownership registries, fiscal audits, GIS mapping, and strategic communication. These practical solutions are driving a global push for transparency, accountability, and constructive investment. The takeaway is simple: we have the tools, the data, and growing public awareness. What we need now is leadership—across government, business, and civil society—to act together. In today’s Indo-Pacific, the Philippines must be more than a passive player. We must be a trusted, rules-based partner. That means choosing our capital – and our partners – wisely. Economic sovereignty isn’t about closing doors. It’s about choosing who we open them to, and on what terms. To experience the impassioned discussions of this rare gathering of warriors for economic empowerment, watch the full conference thru this link: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=bDR6JiP9JxQ&t=25150s

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2025

Rubio visits Israel after Qatar strike

JERUSALEM – Top US diplomat Marco Rubio begins a visit to Israel on Sunday, after expressing the Trump administration’s unwavering support for its ally in the war with Hamas following a strike in Qatar that drew broad criticism of Israel.

The trip is taking place after President Donald Trump rebuked Israel over the unprecedented attack against Hamas leaders meeting in an upscale neighbourhood of Doha on Tuesday.

It marked Israel’s first such strike against US ally Qatar and has put renewed strain on diplomatic efforts to bring about a truce in war-ravaged Gaza.

Before departing for the region on Saturday, Rubio told reporters that while Trump was “not happy” about the strike, it was “not going to change the nature of our relationship with the Israelis”. But he added that the United States and Israel were “going to have to talk about” its impact on truce efforts.

Trump has chided Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the attack, which targeted Hamas leaders gathering to discuss a new ceasefire proposal put forward by the United States.

Netanyahu has defended the operation, saying on Saturday that killing senior Hamas officials would remove the “main obstacle” to ending the war.

The talk of a ceasefire, still out of

reach after months of failed negotiations, came as Israel has been intensifying its campaign in the Gaza Strip. In recent days, it has ramped up efforts to seize control of Gaza City, the territory’s largest urban area, telling residents to evacuate and blowing up numerous high-rise buildings it said were being used by Hamas. While thousands of people have evacuated the city, according to the Israeli military and Hamas, many more remain.

As of late August, the UN estimated that around one million people were living in the city and its surrounding areas, where it has declared a famine it

Bakri

“All

North Korea blasts ‘reckless’ US, Japan, South Korea drills

SEOUL – North Korean leader Kim Jong

Un’s powerful sister condemned upcoming joint military drills by South Korea, the United States and Japan as a “reckless show of strength” that would bring “bad results,” state media said Sunday.

The allies are set to hold joint military drills from Monday through Friday off the South’s Jeju Island, combining naval, air and missile defense exercises to better prepare against threats from the nucleararmed North.

Seoul and Washington, which stations around 28,500 troops in South Korea, will also stage a tabletop military exercise, aimed at integrating their military assets.

Kim Yo Jong slammed the drills as a “dangerous idea”, in a statement carried by state news outlet KCNA.

“The reckless show of strength made by them (the allies) in real action in the vicinity of the DPRK, which is the wrong place, will inevitably bring bad results to themselves,” she said, using the acronym for North Korea.

Pyongyang has long balked at such joint military drills involving the allies, calling them rehearsals for an invasion.

The North perceives the trilateral drills as “scenarios for limited or full-scale nuclear strikes and attempts to neutralize its launch platforms”, Hong Min, a senior analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification, told AFP.

“The North is likely using the allied exercises as a pretext to push ahead with nuclear modernization and conventional upgrades,” he added.

Kim Jo Yong’s statement follows a visit by her brother to weapons research facilities this week, where he said Pyongyang “would put forward the policy of simultaneously pushing forward the building of nuclear forces and conventional armed forces”.

Since a failed summit with the United States in 2019 on denuclearization, North Korea has repeatedly said it will never give up its nuclear weapons and declared itself an “irreversible” nuclear state.

Kim Jong Un has been emboldened by the war in Ukraine, securing critical support from Russia after sending thousands of North Korean troops to fight alongside Moscow. AFP

Clashes with police after up to 150,000 rally

LONDON – Clashes erupted in London during the weekend and police made 25 arrests after up to 150,000 people massed for one of the largest-ever far-right protests in Britain, organised by activist Tommy Robinson.

Police said 26 officers were injured, four seriously, after facing “unacceptable violence” while trying to control the crowds, many draped in English and British flags, during several tense hours on the rally’s fringes.

The Metropolitan Police -- which estimated 110,000 to 150,000 people turned out, “significantly exceeding” organizers’ estimates -- said the clashes broke out after some attendees tried to enter so-called “sterile areas” near counter-protesters.

Australia to spend $8-b to upgrade nuke sub facility

SYDNEY – Australia will spend an initial Aus$12 billion (US$8 billion) to upgrade shipyard facilities for a future fleet of nuclear-powered submarines, the government said Sunday.

The “very significant” investment is to be spent over a decade to transform a shipbuilding and maintenance precinct in Perth, Western Australia, Defense Minister Richard Marles said.

The government is putting money into Perth’s Henderson Defense Precinct after signing the 2021 AUKUS pact with Britain and the United States to arm its navy with nuclear-powered submarines.

The investment is part of a major military restructure to improve Australia’s long-range strike capabilities in the face of China’s expanding military strength across the Pacific.

Australia, which has no infrastructure to service nuclear-powered submarines, aims to acquire at least three US Virginia-class submarines within 15 years and eventually to manufacture its own subs.

“Henderson is a key piece of the AUKUS story and from that point of view it will be welcomed in the US, as it will be welcomed in the United Kingdom, for sure,” Marles told Australia’s Sky News. AFP

Around 5,000 people had attended a Stand Up to Racism march which began around a mile to the north. About 1,000 police were deployed to keep the rival groups apart.

“There is no doubt that many came to exercise their lawful right to protest, but there were many who came intent on violence,”

Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist said.

“They confronted officers, engaging in physical and verbal abuse and making a determined effort to breach cordons in place to keep everyone safe.”

He added arrests were made for violent disorder, assault and other offences, while officers’ injuries included broken teeth, a possible broken nose, a concussion, and a prolapsed disc.

Interior minister Shabana Mahmood condemned “those who have attacked and injured police officers” and insisted “anyone taking part in criminal activity will face the full force of the law.”

Protesters at Robinson’s latest “Unite the Kingdom” event had marched over Westminster Bridge before rallying near Downing Street for speeches by figures associated with the far right from across Europe and North America, including billionaire X owner Elon Musk.

Anti-racism charity Hope Not Hate, which has monitored such rallies for more than a decade, said “a number of well known far-right extremists” including Robinson spoke on-stage and were among the crowds. AFP

Romania, Poland scramble aircraft as Russian drones strike Ukraine

KYIV, Ukraine – Romania became the latest NATO member state to report a drone incursion into its airspace Saturday, as Poland scrambled aircraft in response to fresh Russian drone strikes just over the border in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that Russia was deliberately expanding its drone operations and that the West needed to respond with tougher sanctions and closer defense cooperation.

In Washington, US President Donald Trump said he was ready to impose major sanctions on Russia -- just as soon as all NATO nations did the same thing and stopped buying Russian oil.

Romania’s defense ministry said Saturday that the country’s airspace had been breached by a drone during a Russian attack on infrastructure in neighbor-

ing Ukraine. The country scrambled two F-16 fighter jets late on Saturday to monitor the situation following the strikes, said a defense ministry statement. The jets “detected a drone in national airspace” and tracked it until “it disappeared from the radar” near the Romanian village of Chilia Veche, it added. Also Saturday, Poland said it and its NATO allies had deployed helicopters and aircraft as Russian drones struck Ukraine not far from its border. Because of the drone threat, “Polish and allied aircraft are operating in our airspace, and ground-based air defense and radar reconnaissance systems have reached their highest level of alert,”

IN BRIEF

Immigration raids sap business at eateries

HOUSTON, Texas – Oscar Garcia Santaella’s Mexican restaurant is hurting badly as US immigration agents stage raids in Texas: his customers are afraid to leave home and some of his staff are wary of coming to work. Garcia, who is 54 and originally from Mexico, runs a variety of eateries and one is a normally bustling Houston-area taco joint called Los Primos. Its troubles are a microcosm of what is happening in restaurants elsewhere in Texas and around the country as President Donald Trump’s administration presses on with his dogged campaign to arrest and expel people without residency papers.

Most of Garcia’s clientele is Latino, the ethnic group often targeted when Immigration and Customs agents pounce at restaurants, construction sites, parks and other places where Spanish-speakers tend to gather or work. Texas -- a conservative state where Trump enjoys broad support and 40 percent of the population is Latino -- has had its share of these ICE operations, many of them captured on video and shared on social media. AFP

‘Bandits’ kidnap 18 women, children

NIGERIA – Gunmen killed one man and abducted 18 women and children during a raid on a village in Nigeria’s Zamfar state, in the northwest, local sources told AFP during the weekend.

The attackers, from kidnap and cattlerustling gangs known as “bandits”, bandits stormed Birnin Zarma village at dawn Friday in the latest violence in the region, the sources said.

Zamfara is one of several states in northwest and central Nigeria that have been plagued by bandit raids for years.

“The bandits attacked the village around 5:00 am while people were preparing for morning prayers,” said Ibrahim Bello, a Birnin Zarma resident.

“They broke into a house and shot dead a man and injured his wife before herding 18 women and children out of the village,” Bello said.

The attackers were believed to be from neighboring Anka district where they maintain camps in a nearby forest, said Lawal Umar, a resident of neighboring town of Bukkuyum, confirming details of the raid. AFP

In Berlin, 12,000 join pro-Palestinian rally

BERLIN – Thousands of people gathered in front of Berlin’s landmark Brandenburg Gate during the weekend, demanding an end to “the genocide in Gaza” as well as a halt to arms deliveries to Ukraine. Around 12,000 people joined the rally in the centre of the German capital condemning Israel’s offensive in the besieged Palestinian territory, according to police figures. But the far-left BSW party, which had called the demonstration, estimated turnout at 20,000 people, making it one of the largest pro-Palestinian rallies in Germany in recent months.

Marie Atwan, a 20-year-old student, told AFP that she had come from Hamburg to join the rally to demand “a complete halt to German arms deliveries” to Israel. Not banning those weapons sales amounted to supporting “the genocide in Gaza”, she said. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz had announced a partial arms embargo in August, saying that his country would halt the export of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip. AFP

Youth power on display at PPS Cotabato tennis tourney

CLOSE to 200 of the country’s most promising young tennis players converged at the Cotabato City Sports Plaza over the weekend for a five-day showcase of talent, grit and determination in the Cotabato City National Tennis Championships at the Cotabato City Sports Plaza.

The Group 2 tournament event has not only drawn top-tier players from across the region but has also underscored the growing depth of tennis talent from South Cotabato, a province fast becoming a breeding ground for competitive junior players. Among the most promising are Abdul Balt and Mohammad AbaConding, who headline the boys’ 18-and-under division.

Joining them in the title chase are Krelz Gecosala, Nor Ali Manangking, Amerhussen Basher and Tom Songcayauon, whose participation marks the region’s steady climb up the national junior tennis ladder. Their presence highlights not only their individual potential but also the growing enthusiasm and investment in grassroots tennis in the area.

The event, sanctioned by Philta and presented by Dunlop, is part of the nationwide junior tennis circuit sponsored by Palawan Pawnshop through its president and CEO Bobby Castro, serving as a platform for emerging players to gain ranking points and national exposure.

It also marks a vital stop in the Mindanao swing, which kicked off last week in Digos City with the MJCF Araw ng Digos City tournament.

The boys’ 16- and 14-and-U divisions are just as stacked, with Julius Otoc leading the charge in the 16-U bracket, alongside Gecosala, Aljaven Lumambas, Muhammad Sarip and Songcayauon. Sarip, meanwhile, tops the seedings in the 14-U division and is tipped to go deep into the tournament backed by Universal Tennis and ICON Golf & Sports.

As screen time and digital distractions increasingly dominate the lives of today’s youth, tennis tournaments like this are emerging as essential tools to engage children in physical activity, discipline and goal setting.

The tournament, hosted by Mayor Bruce Matabalao, not only showcases budding athletes but also serves as an inspiration for the local youth to take up the sport, particularly in areas where structured recreational programs are limited.

On the girls’ side, a showdown looms between Sanschena Francisco and Dhea Cua in the premier 18-andU category. But the player to watch is Ayl Gonzaga, a rising star from Olongapo City who is on a hot streak following a string of impressive victories in previous legs of the Palawan Pawnshop circuit.

FIBA Europe chief expects NBA Europe launch in ‘27

PARIS—FIBA Europe president

Jorge Garbajosa said on Saturday he believes the NBA will launch its project to expand into Europe in 2027.

Garbajosa said at a news conference on the eve of the Eurobasket final in Riga that he fully expected a project backed by the US league would take shape in Europe, but that it was a complicated process to decide what form it should take.

“It is not easy to create a competition like the one we, and the NBA, want to create. It will take time but it will happen,” the Spaniard said.

“Some have talked about 2027 and I think that’s a good year, but honestly, the NBA is working on it,” he added.

Garbajosa, who played in the NBA for the Toronto Raptors, had announced in March the NBA was exploring the possibility of launching a new basketball league in Europe, in partnership with FIBA.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver has said talks are under way with FIBA but the Euroleague of European clubs, dominated by Greek, Turkish and Spanish clubs, has expressed strong opposition to an NBA expansion.

Germany face Turkey in the Eurobasket final on Sunday. AFP

Crawford shocks Alvarez, wins historic world crown

LAS VEGAS—Terence Crawford stunned Mexican superstar Saul “Canelo” Alvarez to claim the undisputed super middleweight world boxing crown on Saturday, becoming the first man to win undisputed titles in three weight divisions.

In a fight of razor-thin margins, Crawford poured it on in the closing rounds to earn a unanimous decision victory, improving his unblemished record to 42-0 with 31 knockouts Crawford, 37, had jumped up two weight categories to vie for history, having already counted undisputed

titles at super lightweight and welterweight among his titles in four weight divisions. He silenced critics who claimed his sparkling resume was packed with sub-standard opponents and quieted a raucously pro-Alvarez crowd of 70,482 at Allegiant Stadium, home of

the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders. Judge Steve Weisfeld scored the bout 116-112 for Crawford, while Tim Cheatham and Max DeLuca scored it 115-113 for the American, who had nothing but praise for his opponent.

“Canelo is a great champion,” Crawford said. “I’ve got nothing but respect for Canelo. I’m a big fan of Canelo and he fought like a champion today.” Alvarez, 35 and a world champion in four divisions, fell to 63-3-2. Crawford frustrated Alvarez with

his agility and speed, losing none of his quickness as he stepped up to the 168-pound (76.2-kg) category. He weighed in at the same 167.5 pounds as Alvarez, a career high for Crawford, who had never fought above 147 pounds until last year when he weighed 153.5 in a unanimous decision victory over Israil Madrimov. Alvarez, boxing’s biggest star for the past decade, couldn’t get at him, Crawford using his jab and landing combinations with a vengeance in the closing rounds after wearing the champion down. AFP

Tennis o icials include Eala’s name for PH team bound for SEAG

By Peter Atencio

PHILIPPINE tennis pride Alex

Eala’s name has been included in the national women’s tennis team taking part in the coming Southeast Asian Games.

Philippine Tennis Association officials confirmed her inclusion in Team Philippines for the biennial meet set in Thailand this December, with her name submitted to the organizing committee before the cutoff.

Eala, who made an impressive debut at the SEA Games in 2022 with three bronze medals, followed by two more bronzes at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games, has yet to confirm if her schedule will allow her to participate in this year’s biennial event.

Shaira Rivera will be one of

Eala’s teammates, along with Alexa Milliam and Tenny Madis in the women’s squad.

Niño Alcantara, Ruben Gonzales, AJ Lim and Jed Olivarez will make up the men’s team.

Eala, who is ranked no. 57 in the world, is coming off a recent stint in the 2025 Sao Paolo Open Tennis Championships in Brazil, where she lost in the quarterfinals to Indonesian netter Janice Tjen. The Indonesian made history for herself as she fought her way to a 6-4, 6-1 upset of the third seed Eala on Saturday morning (Manila time). In dropping out of the quarterfinals, Eala earned $6,820, or around P389,930, to go with 54 WTA points.

Eala captured her first WTA 125 title in the Guadalajara Open last week.

Crawford finally claims respect he has long deserved

ON Sunday, September 14 (Philippine time), Terence Crawford walked into the ring burdened by skepticism, doubt, and the weight of history. By the time he walked out, he carried something more valuable than the assortment of gold belts strapped around his body — respect.

In what many thought was a mission too steep to conquer, Crawford dared to move up to 168 pounds for the very first time to face Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, the man many have hailed as “The Face of Boxing” in this generation.

Twelve rounds later, Crawford left the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas as the unified WBC, WBA, WBO, IBF, and The Ring super middleweight world champion after earning a unanimous decision victory with scores of 116-112, 115-113, and 115-113.

For those who expected a back-and-forth war between two of the finest pound-forpound fighters today, what they witnessed instead was Crawford dictating every move like a grandmaster at a chessboard. Save for

the opening two rounds, where Canelo pressed forward with ill intentions, it was clear who had the sharper mind and faster hands.

“Bud” read his Mexican foe like an open book, neutralizing Canelo’s strengths with a slick blend of counter lefts, stiff jabs, and punishing combinations.

Canelo, the naturally bigger man, tried to impose his power. But each time the future Hall of Famer mounted offense, he was made to look flat-footed and ordinary, a rare sight not seen since his loss to Floyd Mayweather Jr. back in 2013.

Crawford, meanwhile, looked calm and comfortable on his back foot, forcing Canelo to chase shadows around the ring. Every swing from the Mexican superstar seemed like a desperate attempt to land something significant, but the American’s adaptability made those efforts look futile.

When the final bell rang, the significance of the moment overwhelmed Crawford. As the scores were read, he dropped to his knees, tears flowing. It wasn’t just about winning titles — it was about validation.

For years, Crawford has carried the burden of criticism despite an unblemished record. His run from lightweight to welterweight was impressive, but detractors claimed his résumé lacked marquee names beyond Yuriorkis Gamboa and Errol Spence Jr.

Even his brief stint at 154 pounds, particularly against Israil Madrimov last year, drew raised eyebrows from skeptics who insisted that he had hit his ceiling. Instead of retreating into his comfort zone, Crawford dared to take the most dangerous leap of his career. Facing Canelo at super middleweight was the kind of challenge that either cements greatness or exposes pretenders. The Omaha native not only survived — he thrived. The victory etched his name deeper into boxing’s record books. With the win, Crawford became a five-division world champion and the first male pugilist in history to be undisputed in three different weight classes. No longer can his critics dismiss his achievements as paper accolades. His adaptability, fight IQ, and technical brilliance were on full display for the entire world to see. Most of all, Crawford finally earned what he had been chasing all along — respect.

Over the weekend, Crawford didn’t just beat Canelo. He proved that he belongs in the conversation of the greatest fighters of his generation, sleeping peacefully with that truth at last.

(For comments or questions, reach the author at nissi.icasiano@gmail.com or visit his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/nissi. icasiano.)

Terence Crawford (right) throws a right punch against Canelo Alvarez in their undisputed super middleweight title ght at Allegiant Stadium on Sept. 13 in Las Vegas, Nevada. AFP

Alex Eala Dennis B. Mallari

In The Red Corner Nissi Icasiano

PSC celebrates PBBM b-day with donation to aid grassroots

IN celebration of the 68th birthday of His Excellency President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) proudly announced the donation of 2,000 sports balls to the Office of the President, marking a significant step toward revitalizing grassroots sports development in public schools nationwide.

The donation includes 1,000 volleyballs from the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) and the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), 500 basketballs from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) and 500 footballs from the Philippine Football Federation (PFF)

This initiative supports the President’s vision for a new national sports development program, as outlined in his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 28: “Bubuo tayo ng bagong pambansang programa para sa sports development. Uumpisahan natin ito sa paaralan pa lamang,” Marcos said.

In partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), the PSC aims to reintroduce sports clubs, inter-school competitions, and intramurals in public schools, ensuring early access to athletic opportunities and nurturing young talent across the country.

On the eve of President Marcos’ birthday, the First Family attended the opening ceremony of the FIVB Men’s World Championship 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, where the President delivered the ceremonial serve to officially commence the tournament.

PSC Chairman Pato Gregorio expressed his enthusiasm for the future of Philippine sports.

“We are standing at the threshold of a great new era and the dawn of a truly exciting legacy. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!” said Gregorio.

This milestone reflects the PSC’s unwavering commitment to empowering Filipino youth through sports and fostering a culture of excellence, unity, and national pride.

President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ R. Marcos Jr. waves to the FIVB Men’s World Championship 2025 crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena. He is joined here by PSC chief Patrick Gregorio and PNVF/AVC president Ramon ‘Tats’ Suzara.

Egypt puts Iran away in 4 sets, faces PH on Tuesday SPORTS

By Peter Atencio

OUTSIDE hitters Ahmed Said and Abdelrahman Elhosinny delivered the crucial points as Egypt took four sets to put away Iran, 25-17, 16-25, 25-23, 25-20, on Sunday in the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.

Their big plays in the fourth set with Mohamed Hamada saw the Egyptian spikers joining the Group A lead with Tunisia, when action ended at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The 6’3” Said struck with 18 points, while Elhosinny knocked in 17 points for Egypt, which will have momentum on their side when they face the Philippines on Tuesday.

Obiena excited to perform in front of local fans, even after Tokyo exit

FILIPINO star Ernest John Obiena is ready for the Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge at the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati.

“Can’t wait to compete in-front of a home crowd!!! Hope to see you all there,” said Obiena on Instagram.

“Two days of street pole vaulting in the heart of the city! We would have the first-ever street pole vault competition in the country at Ayala Triangle Gardens,” added Obiena of the event slated Sept. 20 and 21.

Obiena, now ranked no. 7 in the world, expressed his excitement after he missed qualification on the

first day of the 2025 World Athletics Championship on Friday evening in Tokyo, Japan.

The 29-year-old Obiena cleared 5.55 meters for 11th spot in Group A and off the cutoff height of 5.80 meters.

Only the top 12 earned a seat in the biennial meet.

Swedish standout Armand Duplantis made it to the final round in his bracket with American Sam Kendricks, Emmanouel Karalis of Greece, Norwegian Sondre Guttormsen. Also making it are Kurtis Marschall, Bo Baehre, Rene Lavillenie and Ersu Sasma, after

Said, whose effort included 16 attack points, an ace and a block, provided leadership in the last set, as his attacks with Elhossiny kept the Egyptians ahead, 19-16.

His blocks with Hamada then gave the Egyptians the distance they needed, 22-18, in the ensuing plays.

“It was a difficult game, from the first point to the last point.

But we managed to get some distance,”said Elhosinny, one of the team’s skippers. Ali Hajipour showed the way for Iran with 17 points. Earlier, Tunisia pulled off a 2513, 25-17, 25-23 beating of the Philippines in their opening encounter of the preliminaries last Friday. In other matches, Argentina came out on top of their games with Finland, 1925, 18-25, 25-22, 25-22, 15-11 over at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City to move in front of Group C. Belgium prevailed over Ukraine, 25-16, 25-17, 25-22, for the top spot in Group F.

hitting 5.75 meters.

Qualifying in Group B are Dutch bets Menno Vloon and Thibaut Collet, Ethan Cormont of France and

Baticans target strong finish, Finals push as JPGT Negros unwraps

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL—With their games sharpened by overseas stints, siblings Rafella and Ralph Batican return to local competition with renewed focus and determination as they chase crucial ranking points in the ICTSI Negros Occidental Junior PGT Championship beginning today (Monday, Sept. 15) here. The Bukidnon-based Baticans are not just aiming for podium finishes in the penultimate leg of the seven-stage Visayas-Mindanao regional series but are also in hot pursuit of berths in the Elite Junior Finals, set for Sept. 30-Oct. 3 at The Country Club in Laguna. Having competed in just one of the first five tournaments due to international commitments, the Baticans find themselves in must-win mode. Ralph is currently in eighth place in the boys’ 11-14 division standings with 15 points, while Rafella sits in 10th in the girls’ side with 8 points – both needing at least two more strong showings to qualify.

Their only appearance came last May in Mactan, Cebu, where Ralph impressed with a division win, while Rafella managed a fourth-place finish.

The regional series requires players to participate in at least three of the seven legs to be eligible for the Elite Junior Finals, with the top four in each age division (7-10, 11-14 and 15-18) advancing to the national showdown. A win is worth 15 points, while second to fourth places earn 12,

and 8 points , respectively.

with

several frontrunners skipping this leg, Ralph has a golden opportunity to climb the rankings. He will be challenged in the 36-hole tournament by a deep field that includes locals JM Sabrosa, Luigi Alvarez, Romel Pactolerin, Bacolod bets Isaan Locsin, Lance Ortaliz, Mehaan Gidwani, Zach Casil, Rafael Alvarez, Anthony Juanico and Xian Traviña, plus Cebu’s Miguel Mesina. Meanwhile, Rafella faces an even steeper climb in her side of the bracket, currently led by Brittany Tamayo (45), Kimberly Baroquillo (39), Isabella Espina (35) and Zuri Bagaloyos (30). With just two tournaments left, including the final leg in Binitin, Murcia on Thursday (Sept. 18), Rafella must break into the top four to earn a finals slot.

She is expected to duel closely with Bagaloyos, who is also looking to improve her standing and secure a spot in the national finals, which will adopt a novel Ryder Cup-style format, pitting top players from the Visayas-Mindanao series against their Luzon counterparts. Strong battles also loom across the other divisions of the series, organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., ensuring spirited competition and little room for error at the demanding par-70 Marapara layout.

In the girls’ 7-10 class, Cebu’s Denise Mendoza and Bacolod’s Ana Marie Aguilar are set for a 36-hole showdown against Faith Reosura, Yumi Park and Aria Montelibano.

On a day that features five finals, including the men’s marathon in the morning, American Masai Russell also headlines an incredibly strong line-up in the 100m hurdles.

Duplantis in pole vault

Duplantis has set a remarkable 13 world records in the pole vault, a discipline

hard. I know I’m going to need a real class performance, but I am ready for it.”

Duplantis also warned that a push at a new world record could be on the cards.

“I’d be lying if I said my mind wasn’t flirting with 6.30m. I think it’s very possible.” Karalis added: “I am trying to push Mondo as high as he can go and the same for myself!”

Warholm makes entry The iconic image of Warholm streaking through the finish line at the Coviddelayed Tokyo Olympics in a world record time for hurdles gold was one of the most enduring from those Games. He ripped open his running singlet in sheer exultation as the record time was flashed up on the board, and the Norwegian -- later pictured wearing a plastic

Seifeldin Adesalam of Qatar. The finals will commence on Sunday evening (Manila time). Peter Atencio

Egypt’s Ahmed Said

Ernest John Obiena

Rafella Batican

10

Ralph trails the boys’ division leaders Ken Guillermo (42), Jared Saban (40), Marcus Dueñas (36), and Mico Woo (22), along with Laurence Saban and Guio Pasquil (20 apiece). However,

DigiPlus in talks to buy casino to diversify revenue streams

By Jenniffer B. Austria

DThe

uncertainties in the digital space, the source said. DigiPlus identified a target and discussions were ongoing, according to a source familiar with the matter. However, talks have stalled due to recent developments, the source said. “PLUS was really looking at acquiring also actual gaming bricks and mortar,” the source said. “They already have a lot of money.”

$148.87 billion

Foreign debt as of June 2025

$146.74 billion

Foreign debt as of March 2025

$137.63 billion

Foreign debt as of December 2024

IGIPLUS Interactive Corp. (PLUS), a leading online gaming firm, is in talks to acquire a physical casino as part of a strategic plan to diversify into brick-and-mortar gaming, an informed source said over the weekend. PH foreign debt surpassed $148b in June, says BSP

THE Philippines’ outstanding external debt rose 1.5 percent in the second quarter of 2025 to $148.87 billion from the previous quarter, largely due to the weakening of the US dollar, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said over the weekend. It said the depreciation of the dollar increased the dollar-equivalent of borrowings denominated in other currencies by $1.49 billion

The net acquisition of Philippine debt securities worth $660.96 million also contributed to the rise, while net repayments of $315.67 million partially tempered the increase. Data from the BSP showed that on a year-on-year basis, foreign debt increased by 14.4 percent, led by borrowings, which included bond issuances by the national government amounting to $5.83 billion and external financing tapped by local banks amounting to $3.44 billion. The external debt stock was equivalent to 31.2 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), an improvement from 31.5 percent in the first quarter.

The BSP said the external debt stock remained “sustainable.” As of end-June, the country’s shortterm external debt stood at $28.63 billion. This was well-covered by the country’s gross international reserves (GIR) of $106 billion, providing 3.7 times cover for short-term obligations.

The debt service ratio, another indicator of the capacity to service debt, improved to 8.7 percent from 9.8 percent a year earlier. This resulted from lower principal and interest payments by resident borrowers as of the second quarter.

The potential acquisition contrasts with trends seen in other industry players, such as Bloomberry Resorts Corp., Hann Resorts and Casino and Newport World Resorts, which have started offering and enhancing online platforms to complement their traditional casinos.

The company’s share price has hovered around P19 to P21, down from a high of P65.30 in June, due to concerns about stricter online gambling regulations.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas last month ordered e-wallets to remove all links connected to online gaming applications in a bid to curb online gambling.

As a result, state-owned Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. reported a 50-percent drop in online gaming transactions from Aug. 17 to 19.

The company’s third-quarter results could be crucial as they will provide a clearer picture of its operations amid the recent regulatory changes, the source said.

If the company reports strong thirdquarter earnings or a small decline, its share price is expected to rebound, the source said.

DigiPlus joined the 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi) on Aug. 18, 2025, replacing Bloomberry Resorts Corp., the operator of Solaire Resort.

HEALTHWAY Cancer Care Hospital (HCCH), the country’s first specialized hospital for cancer treatment, has teamed up with global pharmaceutical firm AstraZeneca to launch a Lung Center of Excellence and a Lung Nodule Clinic.

The initiative aims to provide a full spectrum of care for lung cancer patients, from early detection and diagnosis to advanced treatment and survivorship, using cutting-edge technology and a multidisciplinary approach.

“The vision of the Lung Center of Excellence is really to be the leading center for screening, detection, diagnosis, and treatment of thoracic malignancies in the Philippines,” said Dr. Gerardo Cornelio, head of the HCCH Lung Center of Excellence.

“And we want to make this bigger, at least in Asia, in the next couple of years,” said Cornelio.

The center will specialize in treating both non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and the more aggressive

Bishops call for halt in NAIA fee hikes

By Darwin G. Amojelar

CHURCH leaders urged the government and a private consortium to suspend new fees at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), calling for a “genuine and inclusive consultation” with stakeholders.

The appeal came after a mass on Sunday for “Guidance, Truth, and Accountability for aviation industry officials” at a chapel in Pasay City, according to a statement from the event’s organizers. The solemn service was led by Bishops Ben Labor, Aldrin Lleva and Agustino Tangca.

The bishops, who were joined by airport workers and advocacy groups, described the fee increases as “anti-people and unjust.” In a

joint statement, they said public welfare should take precedence over private profit and warned that the abrupt implementation of the charges “undermines justice and burdens ordinary Filipinos, including OFWs who are already sacrificing much for their families.”

Labor said institutions like the airport should “serve the welfare of passengers and workers, including the small businesses, and not just the interests of a few powerful corporations.”

Lleva and Tangca appealed to the Supreme Court to “temporarily freeze all fees increases at the NAIA so that the concerned parties may clarify first the proceeds of such increases ... and for transparency, and consequent accountability, prevail.”

small cell lung cancer (SCLC).

HHCH, in collaboration with AstraZeneca and AI developer Qure. ai, is enhancing early detection through artificial intelligence-powered chest X-rays. The center will also use lowdose CT (LDCT) scans to screen for early signs of lung cancer.

“Lung cancer incidence is on the rise, and mortality rates are high because the disease is often diagnosed at a late stage,” Cornelio said.

“However, with screening and early detection, lung cancer is increasingly treatable, improving the chances of a cure and lowering the mortality rate. Advances in therapy have also led to a decline in mortality and improved survival rates,” he said.

For confirmed or suspected cases, HCCH offers a range of diagnostic tools such as bronchoscopy and various biopsy techniques. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted molecular therapies and immunotherapy.

Jenniffer B. Austria

JAPAN BRIEFING. Department of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto speaks at the Philippine Economic Briefing in Osaka

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2025

Bargain-hunting likely to lift PSEi this week

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE stock market is expected to move sideways with a slight upward bias this week as investors await the U.S. Federal Reserve’s policy meeting.

Analysts believe the market is also due for a technical rebound after five straight weeks of decline.

“With the market at attractive levels, we may see bargain hunting this week,” said Japhet Tantiangco, research head for Philstocks Financial Inc.

With the Fed widely expected to cut rates this week, analysts said investors are hoping for further easing by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), which could boost the local equities market.

“A strong rally is not expected, however, unless we see fresh positive leads,” Tantiangco said.

Meanwhile, Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said dovish signals from the BSP on a possible rate cut before the end of the year could spark a rally in the current lackluster trading.

“These Fed rate cuts could be matched locally by the BSP so that a healthy interest differential would eventually be maintained to help support and stabilize the peso exchange rate, import prices, and overall inflation,” Ricafort said.

“Further cuts in local policy rates are possible if the peso exchange rate remains relatively stable or stronger, global crude oil prices at among three-month lows and also among four-year lows or since May 2021, and if headline inflation remains well within the BSP’s inflation target of 2%-4% for the coming months,” he added.

Last week, the Philippine Stock Exchange index declined 0.65 percent to close at 6,109.21, while the broader all-shares index dipped 0.19 percent to 3,685.59.

Average daily value traded stood at P6.37 billion, up from P5.18 billion the previous week. Foreign investors remained net sellers, with outflows reaching P154 million.

Unilever, FGen renew geothermal power deal

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Philippine unit of global consumer goods giant Unilever PLC has renewed an agreement with First Gen Corp. to supply 10 megawatts of electricity from geothermal resources.

First Gen will source the power from its subsidiary Energy Development Corp.’s (EDC) geothermal facilities in the Bicol region, Tongonan in Leyte, and Palinpinon in Negros Oriental.

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Trade and In-

dustry (DTI) has signed an agreement with DHL Group to help micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) become more export-ready through logistics advice and knowledge-sharing.

The deal, signed on Sept. 10 by officials from both companies, is part of Unilever’s ongoing program to reduce its carbon emissions. The renewed agreement will supply geothermal energy to seven production and distribution sites owned and operated by Unilever and its suppliers in Metro Manila, Cavite, Laguna, and Batangas. These sites manufacture a wide range of Unilever products, including ice creams (Magnum, RFM), sauces and seasonings (Knorr, Lady’s Choice), and beauty, wellness, personal, and home care products (Dove, Rexona, Axe, Pepsodent, Breeze, Domex, and Surf).

The use of geothermal energy, which can generate electricity on a baseload or 24/7 basis, supports Unilever’s long-term climate change transition program.

The production sites have made the Philippines one of Unilever’s largest production hubs and a top market for its consumer goods. According to the company, its products are in nine out of 10 Filipino homes.

“Since 2017, First Gen has been our partner in helping us reduce the carbon footprint of our manufacturing operations with a steady supply of renewable energy,” said Rondell Torres, Unilever’s sustainability lead. “We are committed to continually use renewable energy for our factories and facilities to achieve our operational and sustainability ambitions.”

EVER found yourself needing just a single serving of coffee, one stick of cigarette, or just the right amount of laundry detergent good for one wash load?

If yes, you are more likely to buy just the right amount that you need for a purpose—which forms part of the special practice of retailing in the Philippines tingi-tingi (piecemeal or by-the-piece consumption).

‘Tingi’ culture is a deeply ingrained practice of buying things in small quantities. Sari-sari stores, which are essentially convenience stores in the provinces and in small communities, serve as an accessible place of commerce where basic needs are sold. You ran out of toothpaste? They have it. You only need half a kilo of rice? You can buy it. How about just a small pack of sugar? They offer it.

As the lifeblood of communities, sarisari stores serve the needs of the people, usually fitting into the limited budget of Filipino families. Because of this practice, essential goods become affordable to people, and the sari-sari stores make these products accessible. The ability to buy exactly what consumers can afford, when they need it, stretch limited incomes. It’s a system built on practicality, frugality, and a unique understanding of everyday household economics.

The demand for products in smaller quantities popularized the use of sachets, essentially fueling the sachet economy.

The sachet economy is the widespread use of sachet as packaging for singleserving consumer goods. While it offers a practical solution to the masses, it has contributed to an environmental crisis –plastic pollution. With millions of Filipinos buying products in single-use plastic sachets, the cumulative effect is staggering. These tiny packets, often made of multilayer plastics, are difficult and expensive to recycle. Their proliferation in the environment leads to clogged waterways and overflowing landfills. Beneath the surface of affordability and convenience using sachets is the “dark side” of tingi. The big problem with it is that the use of single-use plastic sachet is synonymous with the tingi culture. If we can resolve the packaging problem, we may see the switch of the tingi culture from an environmental headache into a sustainability champion. Going back to ingrained practice of tingi, we find a cultural mindset that is akin to sustainable consumption. The inherent motivation of tingi is to consume sufficiently within our daily needs. In other words, the tingi culture is at the opposite end to overconsumption. Overconsumption leads to unnecessary

Our tingi culture can evolve into a behavior that promotes sufficient consumption and no packaging waste.

waste and unnecessary environmental footprints on the environment. We can bank on the sufficient consumption behavior behind this culture as our ticket towards sustainable consumption.

Right now, alternatives to single-use plastic sachets are available. Edible packaging and compostable packaging are among those that seem to be promising alternatives. Of course, there are tradeoffs in these alternatives such as higher greenhouse gas emissions from the upstream process. We discussed this in our previous article, “Rethinking plastics”, published on July 20, 2025. Maybe the solution for the sachet problem is not to have any packaging at all. Reusable containers may be the solution that eliminates the sachet problem.

With the tingi culture and reusable containers, we can significantly reduce our environmental footprint. Now, this can happen as package-free or zero-waste retailers are on the rise in recent years.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU), signed on Sept. 10, allows DHL to provide a range of trade solutions, including international express shipping, air and ocean freight, and warehouse management.

“Our exporters, especially MSMEs, face many hurdles in going global... This partnership with DHL gives them a direct line to the knowledge, tools, and network they need to compete abroad,” said Bianca Sykimte, director of DTI’s Export Marketing Bureau.

The signing coincided with an information session for food exporters, held at DHL’s service center in Pasig City. The event provided guidance on trade processes and leveraging logistics to expand into overseas markets.

The MOU and information session are part of a series of initiatives under DHL’s GoTrade and the SME Capacity Building Program, which will include workshops and consultations to help Filipino exporters compete globally.

Nigel Lockett, country manager for DHL Express Philippines, said the company’s capabilities are well-suited to meet the needs of exporters and entrepreneurs.

“Filipino MSMEs have the creativity, quality, and entrepreneurial spirit to thrive internationally - but they need the right support to overcome logistical and regulatory hurdles,” he said.

For instance, different sari-sari stores in Quezon City and San Juan City house refilling stations where you can just bring your own reusable container. You have full control of the amount of product that you buy, depending on your need and budget. Some stores have actually experimented with door-to-door sales for convenience to the customers.

As these stores open up, our tingi culture can evolve into a behavior that promotes sufficient consumption and no packaging waste. So, is it possible to adopt packagefree tingi culture? DEFINITELY. It can become a culture that we can be proud of.

Dr. Jonna C. Baquillas is an Associate Professor at the Department of Marketing and Advertising, Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business, De La Salle University. Dr. Ivan Gue is the Chairperson of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Gokongwei College of Engineering in the same university. They are engaged in research and projects focused on circular economy, sustainability transitions, and sustainable consumption and production. The views expressed above are the authors’ and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.

GREEN LIGHT

Jonna C. Baquillas and Ivan V. Gue

COFFEE AUCTION. Curve Coffee Collaborators Cherry Cruz is the woman behind

P1million bid at the Philippine Coffee Quality Competition (PCQC) auction, transforming the life of young coffee farmer Rodyio Tacdoy and investing in the future of Philippine coffee.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT. BingoPlus Foundation, the social development arm of DigiPlus Interactive Corp., teams up with the Paglaum Mental Health Support Group and Philippine Accessible Disability Services (PADS) Inc. to launch a communitybased mental health campaign in the Philippines. The initiative aims to address the lack of accessible and stigma-free mental healthcare in grassroots communities, despite the country’s Mental Health Act (Republic Act No. 11036).

IN BRIEF

PH secures new Japanese investment plans—Recto

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Philippines has secured future expansion plans from Japanese investors to create more jobs and drive stronger economic growth, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said over the weekend.

A Philippine delegation led by Recto met with senior executives from top Japanese companies, including Sojitz, Mitsui & Co, Koshidaka Holdings Co., Ltd. and Marubeni Corporation.

Sojitz, a global trading company with a strong presence in the Philippines, expressed interest in boosting the country’s competitiveness through innovation, infrastructure support and technology transfer. The company’s

PH banks’ exposure to real estate rose to 19.41% in June

By Thony Rose Lesaca

THE real estate exposure of Philippine banks and trust entities edged higher to 19.61 percent at the end of June 2025 from 19.41 percent in March, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Sunday, driven by an increase in real estate loans. Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed the secondquarter ratio was lower than the 19.92 percent recorded in the same period a year ago.

Loans and investments to the real estate sector grew 7.43 percent yearon-year to P3.39 trillion in the second quarter.

Real estate loans (REL) rose 8.76 percent to P3.03 trillion at end-June from P2.79 trillion a year earlier. Residential real estate loans accounted for P1.16 trillion, while commercial loans reached P1.87 trillion.

Past due real estate loans increased 10.31 percent to P155.82 billion at endJune from P141.25 billion in June 2024. Gross non-performing real estate loans (NPREL) also rose 3.24 percent to P114.46 billion in June, but the gross NPREL ratio fell to 3.78 percent from 3.98 percent a year ago. Meanwhile, real estate investments declined 2.62 percent to P361.37 billion. Both debt and equity securities dropped to P241.20 billion and P120.17 billion, respectively.

Philippine investments span various sectors, from commodities trading to agriculture, telecommunications and property development.

Mitsui & Co., a global trading and investment firm, is eager to expand its business in the Philippines, particularly in renewable energy, liquefied natural gas and large-scale infrastructure like ports and transport systems. The company already has a broad footprint in the country, with invest-

ments in the automotive, BPO, ICT and power generation sectors.

Koshidaka Holdings Co., the world’s largest karaoke chain, is establishing a wholly-owned Philippine subsidiary to spearhead its expansion in Southeast Asia.

The company’s board approved the plan in February 2025. Koshidaka aims to open its first Karaoke Manekineko outlet in Metro Manila by 2026, with an ambitious long-term goal of 100 outlets nationwide.

Marubeni Corp., Japan’s largest trading company, has been an integral part of the Philippines’ development for over a century. It expressed interest in expanding existing projects, including online consumer finance, residential development and water supply. Marubeni also specifically

committed to helping develop renewable energy to provide affordable power to Filipinos.

The Philippine delegation included Secretary Arsenio Balisacan of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev); Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI); and Secretary Sharon Garin of the Department of Energy (DOE).

The meetings, arranged by the DTI field office in Tokyo, took place in Osaka, Japan. The delegation was there for the Philippines-Japan HighLevel Joint Committee Meeting on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation and a Philippine Economic Briefing with top Japanese investors.

FPI urges gov’t to revive manufacturing sector, lower business costs

By Othel V. Campos

THE Federation of Filipino Industries (FPI) urged the government to intervene and revive the country’s manufacturing sector by promoting economies of scale, lowering business costs and creating transparent policies.

These measures, the group said, are necessary to allow local manufacturers to compete with imported goods.

FPI chairman Beth Lee said the

Philippines once had a strong automotive assembly base, but high power and labor costs, taxes and logistical hurdles have eroded its competitiveness, prompting manufacturers to move operations abroad.

“In automotive manufacturing, you cannot expect one country to do everything from zero to ten,” Lee said.

ERC vows to rule on NGCP capex projects by end-September

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has vowed to complete a ruling this month on the remaining capital expenditure projects of transmission operator National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) that were excluded from the 4th regulatory period.

“We will discuss and approve the remaining capex that were not included in the fourth,” ERC chairman Francis Saturnino Juan said.

“Some were included in the fifth, but if there is a need for us to issue a decision on these pending capex projects so

they can already be started by NGCP, then we will do that,” said Juan.

Juan said the ERC had received a letter from the Department of Energy on the critical NGCP capex projects that need the commission’s attention.

“So that’s what we’re prioritizing also,” Juan said, adding, “You’ll know within the month if we can achieve the target that we address, which is NGCP.”

The previous ERC leadership had approved a fixed rate of P0.0384 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to be implemented for 84 months, or until P28 billion in under-recoveries is fully collected.

The ERC also allowed NGCP to recover an increase of P6.62 billion, raising the previously approved maximum allowable revenue from P51.47 billion to P58.10 billion. This translates to an anticipated increase of P0.0629 per kWh.

The ERC approval is part of NGCP’s 4th Regulatory Period (RP) Reset, which covers the years 2016 to 2022.

The third reset, which covered 2010 to 2015, took place more than a decade ago. NGCP had sought a maximum allowable revenue of P552.19 billion under the 4th RP but received approval for only P335.79 billion.

Lee also warned that the textile sector faces similar risks, with some factories considering relocating to Vietnam where operational costs are lower.

Rey Go, owner of Columbia In-

“But when we had a local assembly of pickup trucks, we had both supply and demand working in our favor,” she said. That industry no longer exists, she said, adding: “If we want manufacturing to grow again, we must safeguard it through economies of scale and cost competitiveness.”

ternational Foods and an FPI board director, said the food manufacturing sector still holds potential due to the country’s 115 million consumers. However, he cited the need for a “level playing field.”

Go cited sugar as an example, where local manufacturers are forced to buy sugar at nearly double the world market price, while imported candies containing sugar enter the country duty-free.

Three arrested in police raid on illegal fertilizer sale

THREE people were arrested in Nueva Vizcaya province during a police sting for selling unregistered fertilizers and growth hormones, officials said.

The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA), along with the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and local Aritao police, conducted the entrapment operation on Aug. 13 after receiving reports of illegal sales.

The raid resulted in the seizure of an estimated P475,000 worth of

unauthorized farm inputs, according to a statement from the FPA.

Two male and one female suspect, all residents of Guimba, Nueva Ecija, were taken into custody. FPA executive director Glenn Estrada said the seized products were not registered with the agency and were therefore not authorized for distribution.

“The operation was documented using two alternative recording devices and witnessed by two ba-

rangay officials,” he said.

Confiscated items included 40 bottles of Morbunga vitamin fertilizer, 80 bottles of a product named “Kill”, 24 bottles of “Berde Super Growth Hormones” and 80 bottles of “Long Death”. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. lauded the enforcement efforts, saying unregistered products undermine farm productivity and pose risks to “crops, the environment and public health.” Othel V. Campos

FUND MANAGER. Social Security System (SSS) president and CEO Robert Joseph Montes de Claro and BDO Unibank Inc. president and CEO Nestor Tan share a warm and cheerful moment after signing an agreement designating BDO as trustee for the SSS Balanced Fund. BDO has a history of working with government institutions and brings decades of fund management experience to the partnership.

REAL ESTATE

BOUTIQUE developer

Livingsprings Communities

Realty and Development Corp. (LCRDC) has recently launched Cypress Place Woodland Community in Silang, Cavite—a fresh, natureinspired residential development designed for the new generation of homeowners and smart investors.

Set in a cool, pine-fringed 5.8-hectare property in Silang, Cavite, Cypress Place offers a peaceful and sustainable lifestyle rooted in modern cabin living. With cooler mountain air, thoughtfully designed spaces, and a climate-conscious layout, this new community is all about blending comfort, wellness, and eco-friendly living.

The newly launched project is already gaining recognition. Cypress Place recently received two 5-star awards at the 2025 Asia Pacific Property Awards — Best Residential Development 20+ Units and Best Architecture Multiple Residences.

“Cypress Place was designed to offer the quiet luxury of modern

Cypress Place launched in the ‘Forbes of Cavite’

cabin living—cool breezes, natural surroundings, and the comfort of a space crafted for overall wellness and the modern way of life, including a work-from-home setup,” said Architect Monique C. Albert-Lopez, Livingsprings co-founder.

“Every detail reflects the perfect balance of lifestyle and sustainability.

Receiving two 5-star awards for Architecture and Multiple Residences reinforces our vision that thoughtful design can truly transform everyday living.”

Following the footsteps of its earlier developments like 10 Acacia Place and Tres Palmas,

Livingsprings continues its advocacy for green architecture and mindful planning. Cypress Place offers modern, minimalist homes nestled within a walkable and biophilic community. The clustered two-storey homes, expansive balconies, and open-plan layouts are all designed to maximize natural light and ventilation.

Forbes of Cavite

Now considered one of the most sensibly priced communities in the so-called “Forbes of Cavite,” Cypress Place is perfect for young families, OFW retirees, and vacation home buyers.

ALI’s Laurean Residences nets almost P8b in sales ahead of launch

AYALA Land Premier’s newest luxury development, Laurean Residences, has already generated close to ₱8 billion in sales ahead of its official launch, underscoring the enduring strength of demand in the country’s premium residential market.

Positioned as the flagship residential tower of Dela Rosa Gardens, a 1.3-hectare mixed-use district along Paseo de Roxas and Dela Rosa Street, Laurean Residences anchors a masterplan that includes the new BPI headquarters and a 2,700-sqm urban park. Just steps from Ayala Triangle Gardens, Greenbelt, and One Ayala, and seamlessly connected to Makati’s Emerald Network of elevated walkways and green corridors, the development offers residents a rare balance of city-center convenience and walkable, sustainable living. Rising 65 stories high, the tower will house 388 residences, ranging from 72-sqm suites to expansive 402-sqm four-bedroom homes.

Over half a hectare is devoted to club-like amenities, the most generous allocation by Ayala Land Premier to date, including multiple pools, private dining rooms, a wine lounge, wellness and spa facilities, a cinema room, and a sky garden. Residents will also benefit from hotel-grade property management through Ayala Land Hospitality.

“The market response to Laurean Residences has been exceptional, and it validates the strength of Makati as the country’s premier address,” said Mike Jugo, president and chief executive officer of Ayala Land Premier. “More than a collection of homes, it is an urban sanctuary where timeless architecture, purposeful amenities, and meticulous craftsmanship come together to elevate everyday life.”

Following the success of Park Villas in 2023, Laurean extends Ayala Land Premier’s reach to a broader base of families seeking both investment value and livability in the country’s top business district.

With a layout that supports a close connection to nature, Cypress Place includes green spaces, tree-lined jogging paths, pet-friendly areas, picnic spots, and even meditation pods. There’s also a clubhouse with coworking spaces, ideal for remote workers looking to enjoy “sweater weather” without the need for air conditioning.

“As we expand Livingsprings’ footprint beyond the capital region, every development we envision aims to lower the environmental impact of local properties while enhancing community well-being,” said Architect Albert-Lopez.

Sustainability plays a key role in the community’s features. From energyefficient layouts and the use of locally sourced materials, to landscaping that supports home gardening and ecofriendly tech—everything is built with intention.

Cypress Place is a gated, secure community with 24-hour security, high-speed fiber internet via Converge and other providers, and a design that encourages both peace of mind and productivity.

For those interested in property investment, the units are also staycation-business-friendly, providing opportunities for rental income in a cool, scenic location near Tagaytay.

“We’re excited to officially open Cypress Place Woodland Community to the public, and we welcome inquiries and future residents who are looking for a lifestyle that blends modern comfort with the tranquility of nature,” Architect Albert-Lopez added.

Cypress Place is located in Silang, Cavite, with easy access via CALAX East, CBTX, and CAVITEX. It’s about an hour away from Bonifacio Global City and Alabang Town Center, and just 30 minutes from Nuvali. Jenniffer B. Austria

LEADING VisMin developer Cebu Landmasters, Inc. (CLI) is taking a bold step to secure its growth trajectory. Through its joint-venture subsidiary Cebu Homegrown Developers, Inc. (CHDI) with Ixidor Holdings, Inc., CLI has acquired a sprawling 78.8- hectare property in Liloan, Cebu,

“Together with Ixidor Holdings, our trusted partner in CHDI, we are committed to creating a model Cebuano township that is built for the future, where a combination of economic, social and environmental benefits will be felt for many generations.” The Liloan acquisition marks a strategic move in CLI’s growth roadmap, reinforcing its commitment to prudently expand its landbank while addressing the strong and sustained housing demand across its core markets particularly in VisMin. CLI acquires 79-hectare site in Liloan, Cebu to expand VisMin housing pipeline

executive officer of CLI

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2025 lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE

WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

DiCaprio stars in politically charged ‘One Battle After Another’

RADICAL violence. Immigration

raids. White supremacists. Leonardo DiCaprio ’s politically charged new movie One Battle After Another could scarcely be more timely.

Part action, part drama, with plenty of comedy and almost guaranteed a bagful of Oscar nominations, the film centers on an ageing revolutionary and his teenage daughter. It delivers a lesson on “what this next generation is going to have to deal with,” DiCaprio told a press conference Thursday.

DiCaprio plays Bob, a political insurgent who specializes in explosives. The movie begins as he conducts undercover resistance operations at the US-Mexico border with his lover and co-conspirator, Perfidia ( Teyana Taylor ).

But when villainous Sean Penn ’s Colonel Lockjaw infiltrates the group, Bob is forced to flee with their infant, Willa. Sixteen years later, the bulk of the story finds Bob’s outlaw history catching up with him and his nowadolescent daughter.

Lockjaw is in hot pursuit, happy to order arbitrary immigration crackdowns on the community where he believes his target is hiding. The problem is, Bob has spent that time frying his brain with drugs and alcohol—and can’t remember the first thing about being a revolutionary.

“I love the idea that you expect this character to use massive espionage skills, but he cannot remember the password,” said DiCaprio. “His past is coming back to haunt him, and now it’s passed on to the next generation, a sort of trauma.”

The film, out Sept. 26 in the United States, comes from writer-director Paul Thomas Anderson , the auteur behind There Will Be Blood Magnolia Boogie Nights , and Licorice Pizza Reviews are under embargo, but immediate reaction from critics on social media has been effusive in praise. It is already seen as a clear frontrunner for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.

Penn’s character is embroiled with a group of white supremacists called the Christmas Adventurers—a setup that provides comedy as well as darkness.

“Well, they became less ludicrous even since we’ve shot the film. I see the culture adapting to take it all straight,” Penn earlier told the New York Times

DiCaprio told the same newspaper that the movie “is politically charged, but I think it has a lot to do with how tribal we’ve all become.”

The film dissects “how we have stopped listening to one another, and how these characters thinking or acting in these extremes can bring a lot of hurt,” said the actor. AFP

SCREEN couple

Andres Muhlach and Ashtine Olviga are discovering just how powerful fandom can be.

Even before the release of their debut film Minamahal: 100 Bulaklak Para kay

Luna , the pair—now collectively known as “AshDres”—had been drawing fans from all walks of life. Teenagers and even titos and titas have been showing up, sometimes in the most unexpected and remote locations, just to catch a glimpse and show their support.

“I’m honestly super grateful,” Ashtine told Manila Standard Entertainment during their film’s grand media conference. “Sometimes they’re teenagers, sometimes they’re titas. It’s heartwarming. I wonder why they love us this much, why they accept us so completely.”

For Andres, son of Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzalez , the reception has been both overwhelming and affirming.

“The support is just unreal,” he said, almost in disbelief. “We never expected this. Even the edits I see on social media and the comments I read are really touching.”

Both admit to nerves as they take their first steps on the big screen. “This is my first

OPM band Freestyle will perform its new single “Surrender You” in a concert titled It’s About Time on Sept. 19, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. The band, whose career spans more than two decades, rose to prominence in 1998 with soulful ballads and live performances that won audiences across generations. Among its biggest hits are “Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang?” with Pops Fernandez , “Before I Let You Go,” “This Time,” “Para Sa ’Yo,” “Till I Found You,” “So Slow,” and “Once in a Lifetime.”

These songs, along with four studio albums— Freestyle (self-titled debut), This Time I Wanna Get Close, and Once in a Lifetime — and three live albums — Freestyle Live at the Araneta Coliseum Freestyle All Hits Live, and Freestyle Love Concert (The Album) —cemented the group’s reputation as one of the country’s leading acts.

Today, Freestyle is composed of Top Suzara, Ian Tan, Gibson Viduya, IJ Garcia,

Andres Muhlach, Ashtine Olviga

film, and there is pressure,” Andres said. “But more than that, I feel excited. I always dreamed of being on the silver screen.”

Ashtine echoed the sentiment, confessing that she was still

and Buoy Manalo. The group has also released newer songs such as “Let Love Win,” “Bespren,” “Maybe,” and “Walang Ibang Ikaw.”

“As the title of the show says, it’s about time,” Suzara said. “It’s been a long time coming, and everything is about time and has already been about time.” Suzara, the band’s original frontman, left Freestyle in 2005 but returned three years ago. He said the group’s longevity is tied to its focus on music.

“If there is one [secret], I really don’t know what it is. I left Freestyle in 2005, and I’m back as their frontman once again for three years now. The universe can be very funny sometimes. But I guess if I did have to answer, whether it applies to Freestyle or not, it’s the commitment to making music, and sharing the music you create together,” he said.

“finding” her character during the early days of shooting. What made the process easier, she said, was having Muhlach as her partner. “I’m so thankful it’s Andres. Everything feels lighter when you trust and feel comfortable with your partner.”

Director Jason Paul Laxamana admitted the pair’s popularity caught him by surprise, too. Even during filming in far-flung places, fans still managed to show up in support.

“Fans would come just to see them. The support for AshDres is overwhelming. It proves that people really connect with their sincerity, on and off screen,” the director said.

The AshDres fandom has since taken on a life of its own. Ashtine laughed about how she’s suddenly gained “so many mommies” who celebrate both big and small victories with her. What touched her most, she added, was how fans say they pray for her and Andres. For Andres, the experience has been eye-opening. “It made me realize that people of different age groups can really connect with us. That’s something I didn’t expect.”

Minamahal: 100 Bulaklak Para kay Luna opens in theaters on Sept. 24.

The concert will showcase the band’s new single, written by Suzara, along with original hits and covers.

“Of course, apart from so many originals we’ve selected for the show, we are doing

some other songs that are playful time machines into memories that we hope many will have for themselves, too,” he added. Neocolours , another well-known ’90s

Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio portrays Bob, a political insurgent skilled in explosives

Ashtine (left) and Andres say they feel overwhelmed with the overwhelming fan support

Very Wang Nickie Wang Young stars Andres Muhlach (left) and Ashtine Olviga are making their big screen debut as on-screen partner with ‘Minamahal: 100 Bulaklak Para kay Luna’

Andres (left) and Ashtine take the lead roles in ‘Minamahal’ as Raffy and Luna, respectively

The Market

By Angelica Villanueva

AFTER 45 years and 110 restaurants worldwide, Fogo de Chão has finally opened its first location in Asia, bringing the Brazilian Churrasco experience found in New York, Dubai, and São Paulo to Manila.

On Aug. 18, the Makati restaurant officially opened its doors, introducing Manila diners to the signature Churrasco service that has made Fogo de Chão an international name.

Barry McGowan, chief executive officer of Fogo de Chão, said the brand chose Manila for its vibrant culinary scene and family-oriented culture.

“We started more than 45 years ago in Brazil. We worked very hard to maintain and care for that heritage as well as being innovative, exciting, and engaging. We really hope all of you will be able to experience and see that tonight,” McGowan explained.

The restaurant’s signature service features gaucho chefs who carve slow-roasted, simply seasoned meats directly at the table.

“All our gaucho chefs are trained butchers. All they do is salt it and slow cook it, and every time you get meat, it’s the chef and the butcher who serve you. That’s a very traditional role and a mastery role,” he continued.

Guia Abuel, chief operating officer of The Bistro Group, said the partnership represents a meaningful addition to their portfolio.

“Bistro Group is very privileged to have Fogo de Chão here in the Philippines. It’s our 29th brand, but I think it’s going to be the best. It’s a very unique brand and it’s very successful in the U.S. right now,” Abuel shared.

Complementing the meat-centric

service is the Market Table, a display of fresh vegetables, salads, charcuterie, and traditional Brazilian dishes.

“It pays homage to the farms in southern Brazil where they used to have these gigantic kitchen tables. And the surrounding farms, they bring the best of the harvest and celebrate together,”

Fogo de Chão president Andy Feldman told Manila Standard Life

“So, it’s recognizing that all these wonderful whole foods and vegetables and really special recipes are a perfect complement to Churrasco. You get simply seasoned meats with all these vibrant, fresh fruits and vegetables along the way, and you end up with a very complete and very balanced

Meanwhile, McGowan encouraged diners to enjoy the full experience.

“Try a little bit of everything. I tell you, the Market Table is nutrientdense first. So, enjoy what I call the pre-meal of Market Table. You can have a charcuterie right there.

Nutrient-dense. We call it exotic fruits, and then, we call it microbiome foods. All good for you,” he explained.

“And then, you start with what I call the lighter proteins. It builds up to the richer proteins. So, it’s just all about progression. And I’d say, try a little bit of everything and then discover what’s your favorite,” continued McGowan.

The restaurant executives also said quality remains a priority. While some local ingredients are used, premium meats such as beef are imported from the U.S.

“The more local we can get it, the better. But with the first one, we just formalize it, and then we find time to source the highest quality we can locally and regionally,” McGowan explained. Manila’s location is the first of several planned expansions in the Philippines, with more branches expected in Metro Manila before reaching other cities and provinces. For first-time visitors, the advice is simple: explore the Market Table, sample signature cuts like picanha and lamb, and let the gaucho chefs guide the experience.

“During the [dinner], we’re going to come around and ask, what’s your favorite cut and why? Because everybody has a unique taste profile. You all have different experiences in life. So, this is why it makes it such an enjoyable way to dine,” he stated.

“So, the point is, you get to learn how to Fogo each one of you. And Fogo becomes your own way to dine,” McGowan added.

CEBU Pacific has received the Tourism Industry Excellence Award at the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) first Philippine Tourism Awards, recognizing the airline’s role in advancing Philippine tourism.

The carrier, one of only two Philippine companies honored, was cited for initiatives that helped make air travel affordable and for its contributions to the growth of domestic and international tourism.

The award was accepted by Cebu Pacific directors Michelle Eve De Guzman and Arlene Tena during a ceremony at Okada Manila on Sept. 8. DOT said Cebu Pacific has transformed budget travel since 1996 by driving demand through low fares and wider connectivity.

The airline was recognized for expanding access to underserved

destinations and for promotional seat sales such as its “Piso Sale,” which has enabled millions of Filipinos to travel.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco praised the awardees for their contributions to tourism development, saying their work uplifted communities and showcased Filipino hospitality and innovation.

Cebu Pacific operates more than 60 destinations, including 37 domestic routes and 26 international routes across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

The Philippine Tourism Awards is part of DOT’s recognition program for individuals, enterprises, and organizations contributing to tourism.

Awardees included hotels, resorts, tour operators, transport providers, MICE venues, community-based groups, and media.

CONRAD Manila has introduced its “Mid-Autumn Blooms” mooncake collection, available exclusively at China Blue by Jereme Leung until Oct. 6.

The collection, crafted for the MidAutumn Festival, highlights themes of prosperity, harmony, and togetherness, the hotel said. Two curated sets are offered for both personal gestures and professional gifting.

The Moonlit Fleur set, priced at P6,888, comes in a blush-pink floral box and features four flavors. Guests can choose between four pieces of baked yuzu and mixed nuts or a combination of two baked white lotus with single salted egg yolk, one baked red bean with single salted egg yolk, and one baked pandan with single salted egg yolk. The Moonlit Harmony set, priced at P3,388, is

The Moonlit Fleur and Moonlit Harmony sets are available exclusively at China Blue by Jereme Leung until

Fogo de Chão CEO Barry McGowan (third from the left) and The Bistro Group COO Guia Abuel (second from the left) lead the ribbon-cutting at the brand’s first Asia location in Manila

Gaucho chefs showcase Fogo de Chão’s signature churrasco service, carving slowroasted meats in the traditional Brazilian way meal,” he added.

Table highlights fresh vegetables, salads, charcuterie, and Brazilian dishes that complement the churrasco experience

C4 LIFE

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

By Nickie Wang

SOMETIMES , the best way to escape the chaos of Metro Manila is a quick trip south to Tagaytay. Close enough for convenience yet far enough to feel like a getaway, the city’s cool climate and wide-open spaces have long made it a favorite spot for families.

Skyranch Tagaytay, one of Cavite’s top tourist attractions and a Department of Tourismaccredited leisure park, has unveiled two new features set to draw even bigger crowds: Cartoonville and Sky Spin.

Cartoonville is a 3,000-square-meter wonderland filled with light displays, live shows, and character meet-andgreets. Guests are encouraged to channel their “main character energy” by dressing in cartoon-inspired outfits while exploring the colorful venue.

For P150, families get an all-day pass that includes access to the Village and Forest Lights, shows, and more, with children under 11 months admitted free.

The new zone also highlights three major attractions: a 26foot Giant Slide, a 600-squaremeter inflatable playground, and a 400-square-meter Gel Blaster area. Cartoonville welcomes guests into a 3,000-sqm adventure zone filled with attractions

Skyranch Tagaytay adds new thrills for family getaways in the highlands

Each can be enjoyed separately, starting at P120, or combined in an all-in-one pass at P499. A VIP option at P799 offers express lane access. For thrill-seekers, the park has

introduced Sky Spin, an extreme ride designed to get hearts racing. Inspired by the speed of a galloping horse, the ride is a giant spinning disk that swings back and forth while rotating 360 degrees in the air. At P120 per ride, it’s an adrenaline rush lasting three minutes, with a minimum height requirement of four feet. With more than 39 rides

and attractions now on offer, Skyranch Tagaytay continues to strengthen its standing as a landmark destination in the city. Operating hours run from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on weekdays and from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays— timed perfectly for the busy holiday season when families flock to the highlands for a quick recharge.

PHILTOA’s Travel Mart: The greatest show in town

THE 36th edition of the Philippine Tour Operators Association’s (PHILTOA) Philippine Travel Mart rolled out the other day in a grand manner, amidst colorful razzle-dazzle at the SMX Convention Center, and was attended by a stellar list of who’s who in the country’s travel industry.

This is one travel fair that many locals always look forward to because it highlights, among many other things, the country’s different regions in all their splendor. Each of them banners their indigenous products, festivals, merchandise, and tourist attractions in full support of the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) drive to continuously increase domestic tourism.

This year’s theme was “Boosting NextGen Tourism,” which focused on innovative and sustainable tourism practices in showcasing our country’s natural attractions and unique culture, while also paying attention to the increasing demand for culinary and wellness tourism.

In her keynote address, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco congratulated PHILTOA for making it easy for local residents to travel around the country through the very affordable and bargain travel deals featured in the yearly Philippine Travel Mart. She further emphasized that every purchase of any of the value-for-money packages offered during the event is actually an investment in our country’s future.

The tourism industry is expected to generate P2.7 trillion in revenues, directly employing close to 7 million people, and representing almost 9 percent of our Gross Domestic Product.

The traditional opening ceremony of the event was unique. Instead of the usual ribboncutting, the VIPs poured water from bamboo flasks into potted fortune plants lined up on a table. Trust the creativity of the Filipino in coming up with an unusual but meaningful ceremony like this.

After the opening program, I went around the humongous SMX Expo Hall and was amazed by the many attractive offerings throughout the venue. Hotels, resorts, airlines, and tour agencies were offering the best deals money can buy. The bright colors of the booths representing each region of the country could easily mesmerize any jaded expo habitué. It was an enjoyable experience getting the feel of what

Inside the booth were

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco (second from the left) joins PHILTOA President Arjun Shroff and Bob Zozobrado at the Travel Mart

Cartoonville’s 600-sqm inflatable playground at Skyranch Tagaytay Officials and partners