MEMBERS of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) on Thursday visited areas in Quezon City where Mayor Joy Belmonte had discovered anomalous flood control projects.
Former Supreme Court associate justice Andres Reyes Jr., ICI chairperson; ex-Public Works secretary Rogelio Singson; Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, ICI special adviser; and Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon joined Belmonte in the inspection
By Maricel V. Cruz, Ram Superable, Darwin Amojelar and Vito Barcelo
THE Department of Public Works and Highways said the controversial P289 billion “insertions” in the 2025 budget came from the bicameral conference committee and not from the House of Representatives "small committee."
This came after Marikina Rep. Miro Quimbo asked DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon and other officials to confirm the matter during the agency's budget briefing yesterday.
Quimbo said the House actually reduced the DPWH budget by P73.7 billion, from P898 billion in the National Expenditure Program (NEP) to P825 billion when it transmitted the General Appropriations Bill (GAB) to the Senate.
"If it was reduced here at the House, how could we have done the
insertion? Reduced by P73.7 billion by the House -- so how can you have an insertion?" Quimbo said. However, he said the DPWH budget ballooned to P1.13 trillion, an increase of nearly P289 billion, after the bicameral meeting. DPWH pfficials confirmed Quimbo’s account.
Public Works Usec. Ador Canlas and Director Alex Bote said the department had no knowledge of the changes after the Senate plenary
By Vince Lopez
which could lead to confrontations.
In a text message to Manila Standard, NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin said his men were ready to implement peace and order measures if the protesters turned violent during the rallies.
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Thursday highlighted his administration’s campaign against hunger by visiting the Walang Gutom Kitchen (WGK) in Pasay City, where he personally served meals to street dwellers and families in crisis.
Pot Chavez
to her alleged involvement in the case of missing 'sabungeros' (cockfighting enthusiasts). In an interview with justice reporters, lawyer Alma Mallonga,
The facility, which opened in December last year, is the first site under the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) feeding initiative aimed at providing daily hot meals to vulnerable Filipinos. It caters to about 600 beneficiaries a day, serving breakfast and lunch from Monday to Sunday.
President Marcos, wearing the red apron and cap of WGK volunteers, distributed rice, meat, noodles, soup, vegetables, and fruit to clients of the kitchen before sitting down to share the meal.
Beneficiaries
Solons, FOBAP laud Romualdez’
By Maricel V. Cruz and Othel V. Campos
FIELD WORK. Members of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) check out the findings made by Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte alleging anomalous flood control projects implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways. With Belmonte and DPWH Secretary Vince Hizon are ICI Chairperson retired Justice Andres Reyes Jr., and ICI members, former DPWH Secretary Rogelio “Babes” Singson, SGV and Co. Country Managing Director Rosanna Fajardo and Baguio City Mayor and ICI Special Adviser Benjamin Magalong. QC Mayor Joy Belmonte FB
Actress Gretchen Barretto arrives at the Department of Justice (DOJ) office yesterday to file her counter affidavit in relation to the case of ‘missing sabungeros’ Baretto has been linked to the disappearance and alleged execution of the cockfighting enthusiasts by one of the whistleblowers in the case. Norman Cruz
‘Nando could turn into a super typhoon’
By Rio N. Araja
THE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Thursday said Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 5 may be hoisted throughout the passage of Tropical Depression "Nando."
‘P289-b..
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deliberations, only discovering them when the final General Appropriations Act was released.
“That’s on the record,” Bote said.
Quimbo also pressed for reforms in the 2026 budget process, urging the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to adopt a full disclosure policy:
“Let’s stop the finger-pointing and confusion. If a Congressman or Senator proposes a project, put their name on it. Like in the US, earmarks are transparent. Lawmakers must own and defend their insertions before the public," he said.
Dizon backed the proposal, saying it aligns with the administration’s push for greater accountability and transparency.
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However, when asked by Senator JV Ejercito to name other contractors who benefited from the use of her license, Santos initially hesitated and requested protective custody, citing fears for her safety.
Committee chairman Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson quickly agreed to grant her request on the condition that she provide honest testimony both orally and in writing. Lacson warned that any false statement would result in the immediate withdrawal of Senate protection, which Santos accepted.
She then identified Darcy and Anna Builders & Trading as another firm that borrowed her company’s license. Santos claimed to be unaware that DPWH personnel misused her company’s documents, further alleging that Bulacan assistant district engineers Brice Hernandez and Jaypee Mendoza were responsible for handling the projects’ finances.
“My license was only forcibly borrowed from me. For example, in the Piel [Bulacan project], they just told
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The resolution was introduced by newly-elected Speaker Faustino Dy III, House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, House Minority Leader Marcelino C. Libanan, Senior Deputy Speaker David Suarez, and several deputy speakers.
Colleagues lauded Romualdez for bridging political divides and generations, fostering collegiality, and ensuring the House remained responsive to the needs of Filipinos.
It highlighted Romualdez’s role in shepherding into law key priority measures such as the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Registration Act, the Maharlika Investment Fund Act of 2023, the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act, and the Ease of Paying Taxes Act. The resolution also cited his commitment to accountability, noting investigations into agricultural smuggling, irregular power costs, and misuse of public funds.
Lawmakers emphasized that Romualdez stepped down not due to any wrongdoing but to allow transparency and accountability to prevail. ‘‘This was a conscious act to preserve the trust of the people and to strengthen democratic institutions,’’ the measure said.
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The state weather bureau said that Nando has a possibility to reach super typhoon category.
It may also potentially enhance the southwest monsoon as it approaches the Philippine landmass. Signal No. 1 will be hoisted over northern Luzon as early as Saturday. Meanwhile, the tropical cyclone is less likely to directly affect the weath-
Former Speaker Martin Romualdez earlier vowed to implement reforms to ensure the budget’s passage and execution will be “fully open to public scrutiny” this year:
The reforms include removing the “small committee” as well as opening the House-Senate bicameral conference on the budget to the public and the media.
As this developed, Dizon confirmed the agency has no single nationwide master plan to guide flood control projects and admitted that contractors could rarely show proper blueprints during inspections despite handling multi-million-peso projects.
"Even a small house needs a plan before it can be built, so surely these flood control projects worth hundreds of millions should also have proper plans, yet none could be presented. This is part of our ongoing investiga-
me it would be put up for bidding, so I simply submitted my technical documents," said Santos.
Thursday’s hearing centered on irregularities in the Bulacan first engineering district, which lawmakers said had long been plagued by questionable bidding practices.
During the same hearing, Senators accused contractor Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya II and former DPWH Bulacan 1st district engineer Henry Alcantara of undermining the investigation by issuing conflicting and implausible statements.
Both men were ordered detained by the Blue Ribbon panel after agreeing that their explanations were part of a broader attempt to conceal irregularities in the publicly funded projects.
The committee acted after Discaya claimed that his wife and business partner, Sarah, could not attend the hearing due to a heart condition.
He later added that his wife suffers from diabetes and hypertension and requires maintenance medication.
Lacson then read a letter from Mrs. Discaya claiming that she skipped the session, not because of health issues, but because of a previously scheduled meeting with her employees.
"You are making a fool of us. You
The chamber also recognized his efforts in parliamentary diplomacy, including engagements with U.S. congressional leaders that supported President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s official visit to Washington, opening opportunities for cooperation and investment between the Philippines and the United States.
The resolution described Romualdez as an ‘‘architect of consensus’’ whose leadership was anchored in foresight, inclusivity, and constructive dialogue.
His tenure, it added, would be remembered as “a period of decisive action, transformative legislation, and unwavering commitment to national progress.’’
Meanwhile, the Foreign Buyers Association of the Philippines (FOBAP) lauded Romualdez’s resignation, calling it a ‘‘noble act’’ that helps restore Congress’s credibility amid allegations of questionable public works projects.
‘‘We are lauding his action, which is very noble. It is a credible act in an effort to protect the House’s credibility following allegations connecting him and other congressmen to questionable projects,’’ FOBAP president Robert Young said. He urged other government officials facing similar allegations to follow suit, stressing that maintaining integrity and public trust is their duty.
These included projects not funded or listed in the National Expenditure Program, those lacking coordination certificates with the city, and others misaligned with Quezon City’s Drainage Master Plan.
Investigators also flagged projects with incorrect GIS coordinates, those missing from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Project Cost Management Applica-
er in the next 48 hours. The onset of heavy rains due to Nando and the southwest monsoon is likewise possible by September 21 or 22.
The center of the tropical depression was last estimated at 1,260 kilometers east of Central Luzon. It was moving northwestward at 15 kilometers per hour (kph) with maximum sustained winds of 55 kph near
tion into why such projects were allowed and how they managed to slip through despite their large number," he told senators in a separate Blue Ribbon hearing.
He said the last completed flood control master plan covered Metro Manila and was finalized in 2013, while new plans funded by the World Bank and the Japan International Cooperation Agency are still under development.
The JICA-World Bank plan is expected to be finished in 2026, while a separate Asian Development Bank study is ongoing for 18 major river basins nationwide.
Senator Risa Hontiveros, for her part, raised alarm over what she described as systemic flaws and corruption in the government’s flood control projects.
Hontiveros revealed that Quezon City reported 331 flood control proj-
lied!" Senator Erwin Tulfo said as a result of the apparent deception.
“The greed of the people behind this is unbelievable, almost beyond reach. It is layer upon layer of lies, deceit, and theft from the nation," Tulfo said before he made the motion to cite Discaya in contempt.
Two other former DPWH engineers, Brice Hernandez and Jaypee Mendoza, were later on cited for contempt and ordered detained.
Meanwhile, the Committee moved to compel ex-DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral to testify in its probe even after she resigned from her post earlier this week.
Lacson put the proposal to a vote after Senator Rodante Marcoleta formally moved for the issuance of a subpoena.
Senator Erwin Tulfo seconded the motion, which the panel swiftly approved.
It was Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon who told senators that Cabral had resigned two nights earlier, even as he expressed the opinion that she ought to face the probe.
“Even if she is now just a private citizen and no longer part of the DPWH, if the committee requires her to attend, she still must attend. But
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"We are very ready regardless of what groups would join the rallies,” Aberin said.
"NCRPO is on top of the situation," he added.
Aberin said that aside from Civil Disturbance Management Units deployment, NCRPO also had an alternative security plan for the event.
"We have prepared a comprehensive security plan," he said.
Nearly 2,200 civil disturbance management teams were deployed
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He was accompanied by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Undersecretary for Innovations Edu Punay, and Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano.
The WGK program was launched to address involuntary hunger, particularly among children and families living on the streets.
Beyond distributing meals, the project also promotes nutrition edu-
tion, multiple phases without clear delineation, and identical budgets despite different locations.
Other irregularities included construction inside waterways, structures built atop riprap walls, and collapsed or damaged retaining walls.
One case cited by the city involved a drainage project listed in 2022 that, upon reinspection this year, turned out to be merely a repainted pavement.
the center and gustiness of up to 70 kph.
It is forecast to move slowly northwestward or west-northwestward over the Philippine Sea in the next 48 hours. Afterward, it will turn west-northwestward or westward by Saturday afternoon or Sunday morning toward extreme northern Luzon.
ects between 2022 and 2025 worth P17 billion, but only two were coordinated with the local government’s master plan.
"There are projects that, instead of reducing floods, ended up worsening them in roads, streets, homes, offices, and even schools. There are also socalled ghost projects that the local government still cannot find or locate up to now," she said.
"This could mean not just double but even triple the cost for the public from these floodgates of corruption, since money is spent on the projects, people still suffer damages from flooding despite the supposed flood control measures, and the losses keep piling up," Hontiveros added.
Dizon admitted he has received hundreds of reports of anomalous flood control projects in the country worth billions of pesos.
now, no longer as an official of the DPWH, but as a private citizen,” said Dizon.
Earlier, Dizon also asked several government agencies to provide a list of properties owned by 26 contractors and DPWH personnel allegedly involved in the fraudulent flood control projects.
In a September 16 letter to the Land Registration Authority, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, Maritime Industry Authority, and Land Transportation Office (LTO), he requested a list of land properties, motor vehicles, water vessels, and aircraft registered in their names.
As this developed, the LTO revoked the driver’s licenses of dismissed DPWH engineers Alcantara and Hernandez for using a fake driver’s license to enter casinos.
LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II said, apart from their license revocation, both are being ordered to pay a P3,000 fine for imitation and false representation under Section 31 of the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.
“This is proof of our strong stand against using any documents or falsifying any document being issued by the LTO. We will definitely go after you,” he stressed.
by the NCRPO as well as 300 ready standby support forces and 42 drone operators were ready to maintain secured and safe conduct of the event.
Over 530 personnel of the NCRPO also were deployed for the border control and checkpoints across Metro Manila while 436 others would be fielded for traffic management.
Moreover, some police officers advised the members of the media to stay safe during their coverage of the event.
"We will be observing maximum tolerance however, we will not stand idly, if a law is violated in our presence," Aberin added.
cation and case management to help vulnerable individuals transition into more secure living conditions.
First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos led the distribution of meals when the Pasay kitchen opened in December 2024, signaling what Malacañang has described as a whole-of-government effort to tackle food insecurity. The visit comes as the administration prepares to expand the Walang Gutom Kitchen model to more urban centers nationwide, part of Mr. Marcos’ broader antipoverty agenda.
He also expressed concerns about "ghost and very substandard" flood control projects scattered nationwide, saying that some projects were never built, while others were falsely certified as completed. He said the DPWH plans to repair and reinforce damaged flood control projects without additional costs, utilizing the warranties included in the contracts with contractors.
"Our new legal team will initiate procedures to recover the warranties. Most of the warranties for the flood control projects, if not all, are five years under their contracts so we can still pursue them," Dizon said. In some cases, he said the DPWH will replace polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sheet piles with steel sheet piles to ensure greater strength and long-term reliability, as seen in the repair works in Barangay Paknaan, Mandaue City.
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Barretto's counsel, noted that they are seeking the dismissal of the complaint filed against her.
"The purpose of a preliminary investigation is to shield the innocent from harassment, from all the hardships of a public trial, so not everyone who has a preliminary investigation is charged... Basically, there is no proof. These are mere allegations as admitted by the PNP itself in its endorsement letter. Mr. Patidongan himself makes that statement without any substantiation," the lawyer said.
Mallonga explained that the only basis of the complaint is the statements of e-sabong whistleblower Alyas “Totoy”—identified as Julie “Dondon” Patidongan. She added that said statements were unsubstantiated and not credible.
Likewise, none of the elements of the crime can possibly have been proven by this mere allegation stressing that there is no evidence in this case, according to Baretto’s legal counsel.
"As a matter of law, even if what he (Patidongan) says is true, Ms. Barretto will not incur any criminal liability anymore... Absent any showing that there was a participation in the commission does not give rise to criminal liability," said Mallonga.
Meanwhile, some relatives of the missing 'sabungeros' present during the preliminary investigation insisted that their complaints shall proceed despite other relatives who opted for settlement.
"I hope those who have settled this matter will not stop us from seeking justice because this is our chance to have justice and find out who the real mastermind is," said Carmelita Lasco, mother of Ricardo "Jon" Lasco. The camp of gaming tycoon Charlie "Atong" Ang also denied their involvement in the alleged settlement.
"In reality, in that case, whoever had the motive to settle that case should be the accused. That is none other than Julie Patidongan," said lawyer Gabriel Villareal, Ang's counsel.
He noted that Patidongan's goal is to get his bail request and application to become a state witness approved. Villareal assured that his client will personally appear in the next hearings to swear his counter-affidavit which was not completed due to the volume of papers sent to them.
Other personalities present during the preliminary investigation include former NCRPO Chief Jonnel Estomo, as well as Elakim and Jose Patidongan, siblings of Julie.
After their meeting, the ICI members and Belmonte inspected the P97million Matalahib pumping station, which was built on top of a creek, obstructing water flow and causing flooding in District 1. They also visited the Mariblo and Sta. Cruz pump stations to examine further irregularities. Magalong told reporters that a broader inspection would follow, though ICI members declined to grant interviews. Earlier this week, Belmonte aired her frustration after uncovering more irregularities than initially reported. At a news conference, she said the city found 331 flood control projects worth over P17 billion—far exceeding the 254 projects first identified. Of the total, P14 billion worth were not in line with the city’s drainage master plan.
JBC postpones deliberations for OMB post
By Pot Chavez
THE Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) has reset the deliberations scheduled today for the selection of the head of the Office of the Ombudsman to October 6. Supreme Court (SC) spokesperson Atty. Camille L. Ting explained yesterday that the adjustment will allow more time for the new Senate Committee on Justice Chairperson Senator Francis Pangilinan to review the application documents.
“This adjustment covers not only the Ombudsman post but also other vacancies currently being processed by the JBC,” she said.
Last week, Pangilinan formally accepted the chairmanship of the Committee on Justice and Human Rights for the second time having previously headed it during from 2001 to 2004. Said post was previously held by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano who represented the Senate in the JBC during the public interview conducted last month.
The adjustment of the deliberation will give candidates more time to submit their clearance required to prove that an applicant is not facing any criminal or administrative case, Ting said.
Earlier this week, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said he has yet to submit his clearance due to the motion for reconsideration filed by Senator Imee Marcos after the complaint against him has already been dismissed by the Office of the Ombudsman.
He also explained that the complaint filed by Davao City acting mayor Sebastian Duterte against him and several others is forum shopping considering a pending petition before the SC with the legality of the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte and his transfer to The Hague.
New law bolsters nat’l gov’t preparedness vs. disasters
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has signed into law a measure that empowers the government to declare a “State of Imminent Disaster” before an actual calamity strikes, in a bid to strengthen preparedness and minimize potential damage.
Republic Act No. 12287, or the Declaration of State of Imminent Disaster Act, was signed by Mr. Marcos last Sept. 12. The measure establishes a legal framework for declaring a state of imminent disaster, setting criteria for its declaration and lifting, and author-
izing the use of resources for anticipatory action.
The law allows the President, upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), to declare a State of Imminent Disaster over ba -
rangays, municipalities, cities, provinces, or regions forecast to be hit by a disaster.
Local chief executives may also issue similar declarations within their jurisdictions based on recommendations from regional disaster councils.
To justify a declaration, the NDRRMC or regional councils must conduct a pre-disaster risk assessment showing highly probable catastrophic impacts from a hazard, classified as severe, with a lead time of at least three days, extendable to five days, for government interventions.
Help assured for Happyland fire victims
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday assured residents displaced by a massive fire at Happyland, Barangay 105 in Tondo, Manila that the government will continue to provide support until their lives return to normal.
The president visited two evacuation sites in Tondo, where families are temporarily staying following the blaze that destroyed hundreds of homes on September 13.
The President oversaw the distribution of food packs, hygiene kits, sleeping kits, and cash assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
“Even with what happened, please expect that your government is here, watching over you, supporting you, and we will ensure that we will take care of all your needs,” President Marcos said.
The President said he ordered Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian to mobilize relief efforts immediately after the fire.
He also directed the deployment of medical teams to prevent outbreaks of illness in the crowded evacuation centers.
“Just a little patience, we will do everything to get you back to your normal life,” Mr. Marcos said.
Once families are cleared to return home, the government will explore assistance for rebuilding or rehabilitating damaged houses, the President said.
WELCOME VISIT. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. welcomes UAE Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange H.E. Abdulla Nasser Lootah yesterday during a courtesy call at Study Room, Malacañan Palace. PPA Pool
FLOOD PLANNING. Key officials of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority meet with representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to discuss replicating waste management and flood mitigation programs.
Law on teachers’ promotions signed
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed into law a measure establishing a career progression system for public school teachers and school leaders, aimed at ensuring their professional development and expanding opportunities for promotion.
Republic Act No. 12288, or the Career Progression System for Public School Teachers and School Leaders Act, intro-
PNP on alert vs. private armies in BARMM polls
By Vince Lopez
WITH only 27 days left before the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful, orderly, and credible vote on October 13, despite ongoing legal challenges.
In line with this directive, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified security operations to protect voters and uphold the integrity of the polls.
“Our mission is clear—to guarantee that the people of BARMM can freely exercise their right to vote without fear or intimidation,” said Acting PNP Chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.
The PNP has conducted 14,828 Commission on Elections (Comelec) checkpoints from August 14 to September 16, resulting in 22 arrests and the confiscation of 32 firearms.
Focused law enforcement against private armed groups and monitoring of loose firearms are also underway.
Regional Joint Security Control Centers have been activated to ensure coordination among the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Comelec.
“The safety of voters and the credibility of the elections are our top priorities, and we will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the democratic process,” said PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño.
duces a competency-based promotion framework that allows teachers in elementary and secondary schools to ad-
vance based on merit and qualifications.
Under the law, positions from Teacher I to Master Teacher I will serve as the foundation of the expanded system.
Promotions will no longer be strictly hierarchical but will be determined by competence and adherence to professional standards.
Qualified educators may also enter any position within the base of the system if they meet Civil Service Commission (CSC) requirements and satisfy indicators set by the Teacher Education
Council (TEC).
To implement the system, the CSC, Department of Education (DepEd), TEC, and Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) were tasked to harmonize qualification standards.
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) must also create new teaching titles, while DepEd will draft promotion guidelines featuring transparent criteria and assessments. Implementing rules and regulations are expected within 90 days of the law’s effectivity.
IN BRIEF
Libanan re-elected minority bloc leader
4PS Rep. Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan has been re-elected as House minority leader. He won a unanimous vote from the 27-member minority bloc in a caucus held shortly after Isabela Rep. Faustino Dy III was elected as Speaker. Dy’s election followed the resignation of Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez from the country’s fourth-highest elective post. The minority bloc is composed of House members who did not support Dy’s election. Those who voted for Libanan included representatives from various districts and party-list groups such as Akbayan, ACT-Teachers, Bagong Henerasyon, Philreca, LPGMA, and Kabataan, among others. Libanan, elected as a 4Ps representative in 2022, first became minority leader during the 19th Congress. He was retained in the role at the opening of the 20th Congress on July 28, 2025, recognized for his constructive opposition and progressive yet balanced reforms.
A lawyer by profession, Libanan previously served as Eastern Samar representative for three consecutive terms. He also chaired the House committee on justice, served as majority leader of the bicameral Commission on Appointments, and later became Immigration commissioner under former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Aussie using multiple names nabbed in Makati OPERATIVES from the Bureau of Immigration (BI) have arrested an Australian citizen in Makati City for allegedly using multiple fake identities and overstaying in the country. Authorities identified the suspect as Dayle Marc George Campbell, who was apprehended along Pertierra Street in Poblacion, Makati, with support from the city police. Campbell, also known by the aliases Dion Munro and Daniel John, had claimed citizenship in both Seychelles and Australia.
Complaints filed with the BI alleged he was using fraudulent immigration papers, and deportation was sought if found. Vito Barcelo
Police backs House bill enhancing investigations
THE Philippine National Police (PNP), led by Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., has expressed support for a proposed bill that seeks to enhance the investigative capabilities of the force.
The measure, House Bill 2244, was filed by Parañaque City Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan. Nartatez said the bill aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to modernize the PNP and ensure it can address evolving crime trends. “We fully welcome and support any legislative measure that will further improve the PNP’s investigative capability,” he said, noting that additional tools, training, and resources would be vital. Vince Lopez
LTO orders same-day release of license plates for new cars
By Rio N. Araja
THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) has issued a guideline requiring the release of license plates and the official receipt and certificate of registration (OR/ CR) on the same day a brand-new motor vehicle is turned over to its owner.
LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II said the guideline, which mandates the nation-
wide implementation of same-day registration and release, will be cascaded to all district offices and to motor vehicle and motorcycle dealers.
“This is in compliance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive during his recent State of the Nation Address that license plates and OR/CR should be released at the soonest possible time,” Mendoza said.
He explained that while the President ordered their release within three days, the LTO found it feasible to provide them on the same day a new vehicle is released. The measure, he said, aims to prevent a recurrence of the 11-year backlog in license plates, which under his leadership was cleared in June 2025 after addressing more than 12 million pending plates.
Mendoza said the LTO has developed a system that integrates with its existing platforms to facilitate the same-day release.
“Once this memorandum circular becomes effective, no brand-new motor vehicle or motorcycle shall be released by dealers without the LTO license plate and OR/CR,” he stressed.
‘Track greenhouse gas to address flooding’
By Ram Superable
SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Thursday urged the Climate Change Commission (CCC) to enhance its monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions, saying better data could help mitigate the impacts of climate change and improve the country’s flood control program.
“The CCC should show the science behind climate change to guide flood control projects. It’s easy to blame climate change, but if it’s truly the cause of increased flooding, we need actionable solutions like an effective flood control program,”
Gatchalian said during a Senate budget hearing. The senator said the government must establish an annual system to track emissions and evaluate whether the Philippines is reducing its carbon footprint. Reliable monitoring, he explained, would allow policymakers to assess the effectiveness of mitigation efforts and hold sectors accountable.
“We want the CCC to give us scientific solutions to climate change and be relevant to our constituents,” he added. His call came as the Senate continues to investigate failed flood control projects that did not protect communities despite billions of pesos in spending.
TOURISM SUMMIT. Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) chair and administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño (2nd from left) poses for a souvenir photo with distinguished guests of the 3rd Central Luzon Sustainable Tourism Summit: (L-R) DENR Region III Executive Director Engr. Ralph C. Pablo, Dr. Laya B. Gonzales of UP Cebu, DOT Region III Director Richard G. Daenos, Zed Avecilla of the Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS), Arch. Michaela Rosette M. Santos-Tayag, and Dr. Michael P. Canilao of the National Museum of the Philippines.
OPINION
By the numbers
WHY is the Akbayan bloc in the House of Representatives pushing for the release of the statements of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALNs) of all of the members of the lower chamber of Congress?
This is the offshoot of the controversy over flood control projects that has implicated several lawmakers.
House Resolution 271 filed by the party-list group directs the Office of the Secretary General to make public all SALNs of House members: “As representatives of the Filipino people, members of the House of Representatives must lead by example by demonstrating their commitment to ethical conduct and accountability, thereby setting the tone for other public officials and employees.”
The Akbayan resolution came two weeks after President Marcos ordered the conduct of “lifestyle checks” on all government officials, starting with the DPWH.
They cited Constitutional and statutory mandates requiring public disclosure of SALNs, specifically Republic Act 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. However, the Office of the Ombudsman then under Samuel Martires restricted public access to the SALNs on file with its office by issuing Memorandum Circular 1, s. 2020 during the Duterte administration.
The SALN is a cornerstone of public accountability in the country, as it serves to promote transparency and integrity by providing a detailed snapshot of a public official’s financial condition, including properties, income, liabilities, and business interests.
It helps ensure that officials are not using their positions for personal gain, especially when their wealth grows disproportionately to their income.
SALNs serve as a deterrent to corrupt practices by making it easier to detect unexplained wealth or illicit enrichment. Investigators and watchdogs can immediately use SALNs to track inconsistencies in financial disclosures over time.
Knowing their wealth is being monitored can discourage public officials from engaging in corrupt acts such as bribery, embezzlement, or misuse of public funds.
When citizens see that officials are transparent about their finances, it strengthens trust in government institutions.
Access by ordinary citizens to the SALNs of those holding public office from the president down to the barangay level shows that government is committed to transparency in all its dealings.
The SALN is also a safeguard in keeping public service honest and gives the
Filipino people a way to see that their leaders are living up to standards of integrity. If a public official’s wealth increases significantly without a clear legal source, it raises red flags and could trigger an investigation.
SALNs can be used as evidence in court cases related to graft, plunder, or illgotten wealth. Discrepancies, omissions, or falsifications in a SALN are themselves punishable under Philippine laws, such as RA 6713 and the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
SALNs actually played a role in highprofile investigations and controversies in this country. These have been used to track unexplained wealth, especially when the assets of public officials balloon without a clear source of income.
SALNs serve as a deterrent to corrupt practices by making it easier to detect unexplained wealth or illicit enrichment
Mainstream media have published exposés based on SALN discrepancies, especially during election seasons. These reports often reveal how candidates’ wealth mysteriously multiplies after assuming office.
Non-government organizations have also launched campaigns to urge government to allow public access to SALNs, arguing that secrecy breeds corruption. They have also lobbied against restrictive policies from the Office of the Ombudsman that limit SALN access.
Academic institutions and think tanks have hosted forums and published research showing how SALNs can be used to track patterns of corruption, especially among political dynasties and local officials.
The Corruption Perception Index for the Philippines remains low, partly due to weak enforcement and limited public access. This shows that while SALNs are a powerful tool, they’re only as effective as the systems and people willing to use them.
The SALN is an indispensable tool against corruption.
While it is not foolproof and depends on strict enforcement, public access, and vigilant oversight, it is a vital instrument in the country’s anti-corruption framework.
(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)
The limits of investigative commissions
THE Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) was created this week in response to public outrage over corruption in flood control and other major infrastructure projects.
Former Supreme Court Justice Andres Reyes Jr., ex-Public Works Secretary Rogelio “Babes” Singson, and finance expert Rossana Fajardo were appointed as members, with Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong serving as adviser.
This model recalls earlier commissions formed during moments of crisis.
The Agrava Commission of 1983, convened by Ferdinand Marcos Sr. after the assassination of Ninoy Aquino. was granted investigative powers but became a study in political compromise.
Justice Corazon Agrava’s minority report cleared military chief Fabian Ver, while the majority concluded Aquino was killed by a military conspiracy.
The split highlighted the futility of truth-seeking under authoritarian rule, where political preservation outweighed justice.
In the democratic transition, President Corazon Aquino faced repeated military uprisings and created the Davide Commission in 1990.
Led by Hilario Davide Jr., later appointed Chief Justice, it investigated coup attempts and found that discontent stemmed from corruption, inequities in promotions, and the politicization of the armed forces. Though it recommended reforms, implementation was limited.
Over a decade later, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo confronted the Oak-
EDITORIAL
Enhanced PH-Japan defense cooperation
THIS year, the Philippines and Japan significantly deepened their defense cooperation with developments that directly boost our position in the West Philippine Sea.
First, there’s the activation of the Reciprocal Access Agreement between our two countries on Sept. 11. Under this agreement , Philippine and Japanese forces conduct joint training, humanitarian missions, and disaster response operations on each other’s territory.
It streamlines logistics, clarifies the legal status of visiting troops, and facilitates operational planning similar to the Philippines–US Visiting Forces Agreement.
Second, under the RAA, the Philippine Navy started to conduct joint naval drills. Held Sept. 12–13, the 11th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity involved the Philippines, Japan, and the US.
wood Mutiny of 2003, staged by young officers of the Magdalo group. She created the Feliciano Commission, chaired by Justice Florentino Feliciano. Its hearings revealed systemic corruption in military procurement and deep frustrations within the ranks. Yet like Davide’s body, it produced insights without lasting institutional change.
The ICI will only succeed if it is pushed, watched, and prodded by the public it claims to serve
A more ambitious experiment came in 2010 with the Philippine Truth Commission, created by President Benigno Aquino III and directed at high-level corruption during the Arroyo presidency.
The NBN-ZTE broadband deal involved a $329 million contract with China’s ZTE Corporation that collapsed after revelations of bribery implicating top officials, including the First Gentleman. The fertilizer fund scam saw ₱728 million intended for farmers allegedly diverted to Arroyo’s 2004 campaign, with overpriced or non-existent procurements masking the diversion.
The Truth Commission, headed by former Chief Justice Hilario Davide, sought to weave these scandals into a
This was conducted in waters off Magalawa Island to Silanguin Island, Zambales, within the Philippine EEZ and near Scarborough Shoal, a flashpoint in the WPS dispute.
The drills demonstrated enhanced maritime capabilities, including antisubmarine warfare, interdiction, search and rescue, and maritime domain awareness.
comprehensive account of systemic corruption.
It aimed not only to recommend prosecutions but also to create a moral record of wrongdoing, a truth-telling exercise meant to restore public faith in institutions. Yet its life was cut short when the Supreme Court declared it unconstitutional, ruling that it violated the equal protection clause by singling out one administration. This decision crippled the Commission before it could fulfill its mandate.
Our experience with investigative Commissions shows their recurring limits. Agrava exposed how authoritarianism distorted truth-seeking. Davide and Feliciano diagnosed unrest but lacked teeth.
The Truth Commission was the boldest, yet it was derailed by legal and political obstacles.
More than the ICI, what is more decisive in addressing corruption is the President’s appointment of the Ombudsman.
In this regard, the Judicial and Bar
These served to improve real-time coordination, shared intelligence, and response capability which are critical in contested waters where rapid reaction is essential.
We have to boldly assert our legal rights under UNCLOS or else we would be remiss in our duty to defend our national sovereignty and territorial integrity
During the drills, a Chinese warship was challenged via radio by the Philippine Navy, citing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS, the 2016 Arbitral Award, and the Philippine Maritime Zone Act. Japan’s visible participation in the drills showed regional solidarity and a rules-based stance against coercive behavior by China in the West Philip-
Council should disregard complaints filed against Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla in considering his application for Ombudsman. These complaints are filed in bad faith, specifically intended to prevent Secretary Remulla from being considered for the post.
I am not supporting Remulla’s application, but if these are given due course, a bad precedent is set. Any nomination and application for a position the JBC needs to consider can easily be torpedoed by such complaints. Going back to the ICI, it could easily follow the fate of its predecessors: a burst of publicity, a thick final report, and then silence.
To avoid this, the Commission must embrace transparency and participation.
Hearings should be public and livestreamed.
Civil society groups, communities, and independent experts must be allowed to scrutinize evidence.
Citizen audits of infrastructure projects should be institutionalized. Whistleblow-
pine Sea
The presence of Japanese forces alongside Philippine and US assets sends a clear signal of multilateral resolve to prevent unilateral Chinese actions in the disputed waters.
More than these, our RAA with Japan reinforces the Philippine position our maritime claims are backed by international law and supported by democratic allies.
Joint exercises with Japan also counters China’s narrative that disputes should be resolved bilaterally, excluding third-party involvement.
Our defense cooperation with Japan complements ASEAN efforts and aligns with broader Indo-Pacific strategies for a free and open Indo-Pacific. It also represents a recalibration of regional power dynamics.
Our alliance with Japan and the US is evolving into a broader multilateral security architecture that is strategic and potentially transformative for the Indo-Pacific region.
Not surprisingly, China’s response to our bilateral defense cooperation with both Japan and the United States has been to accuse the Philippines of provocations.
But we have to boldly assert our legal rights under UNCLOS or else we would be remiss in our duty to defend our national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
ers should be protected and encouraged. Transparency is not just about publishing documents; it is about creating spaces where citizens can see, question, and challenge the Commission’s work. Without such safeguards, it risks becoming another paper tiger, roaring loudly at the start but silenced when the powerful push back.
On Sept. 21, Filipinos plan marches and rallies against alleged corruption in floodcontrol projects, coinciding with Martial Law’s anniversary. Demonstrations are set at Luneta and the People Power Monument. These mass actions matter. They remind us that vigilance cannot be outsourced to Commissions alone. The ICI will only succeed if it is pushed, watched, and prodded by the public it claims to serve.
Commissions can start the work of truth-seeking, but only the people can finish it. Facebook, X, Instagram, and BlueSky: tonylavs Website: tonylavina.com
IN BRIEF
Tourists back at Peru’s Machu Picchu
LIMA – Tourists were back at Peru’s ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu Wednesday, officials said, after a protest by residents forced the evacuation of hundreds of stranded visitors. Access to the site had been blocked since Monday as protesters placed logs and rocks on train tracks to demand their interests be represented in the bidding process for a new bus operator.
Protesters clashed with police, which said 14 officers were injured.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, the ancient, fortified complex receives around 4,500 visitors a day, many of them foreigners, according to the tourism ministry.
Visitors travel some 110 kilometers (68 miles) by train from the city of Cusco -the Inca empire’s ancient capital -- to the Aguas Calientes train station, then take a bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
Authorities on Tuesday evening evacuated 156 visitors, adding to another 1,400odd that had to be extricated overnight Monday. AFP
Judge weighs court’s powers in climate case
MISSOULA, Montana – A federal judge overseeing a closely watched climate case on Wednesday (Thursday Manila time) pressed the lawyer representing young Americans suing President Donald Trump on whether courts have constitutional authority to rein in his fossil-fuel agenda.
On the second and last day of hearings in Missoula, Montana, attorneys delivered final arguments in Lighthiser v. Trump, part of a growing global wave of lawsuits seeking to force climate action amid political inertia or hostility.
The 22 plaintiffs, represented by the nonprofit Our Children’s Trust, want a preliminary injunction against three executive orders they say trample their inalienable rights by seeking to “unleash” fossil fuel development while sidelining renewable energy. They also accuse the administration of eroding federal climate science, leaving the public less informed about mounting dangers. AFP
Brazil’s Bolsonaro adds skin cancer to woes
BRASILIA – Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro, convicted last week of leading an attempted coup, has been diagnosed with skin cancer, his doctor said Wednesday (Thursday Manila time).
The announcement came as the beleaguered far-right leader, 70, was discharged from a hospital in the capital Brasilia where he was rushed under prison guard Tuesday after suffering violent bouts of hiccups, vomiting and low blood pressure.
Bolsonaro has had multiple health issues and operations in recent years due to complications following a 2018 stabbing in his abdomen while campaigning for president.
The latest episode comes after his conviction last week on charges that he plotted to overthrow leftist rival Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who beat him in 2022 presidential elections.
Bolsonaro’s lawyers have said they will appeal the conviction, for which he was sentenced to 27 years in prison. AFP
China slams ‘hegemonic logic’
BEIJING – Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun denounced “hegemonic logic and acts of bullying” during remarks Thursday at a Beijing forum that were full of thinly veiled references to the United States.
Organizers say about 1,800 representatives from 100 countries, including political, military and academic leaders, are gathering in Beijing for the Xiangshan Forum, considered China’s answer to the annual Shangri-La meeting in Singapore. The three-day event comes as China presents itself as a mediator of fraught global issues including ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza.
Addressing attendees at the opening ceremony on Thursday, Dong warned of “new threats and challenges” now facing world peace.
“While the themes of the times -- peace and development -- remain unchanged, the clouds of a Cold War mentality, hegemonism and protectionism have not lifted,” he said.
“Historical memory must serve as a
constant warning to recognise and oppose hegemonic logic and acts of bullying that are disguised in a new form.”
The comments were a subtle reference to the United States, China’s primary competitor in recent years across a wide range of economic and geopolitical arenas.
Dong’s remarks come two weeks after a grand military parade in Tiananmen Square to commemorate China’s 1945 victory over a Japanese invasion, which left millions dead.
The parade saw China unveil a host of new weapons, including advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles, drones and laser technology. In attendance were several leaders that
Pope Leo XIV puts the brake on Church reforms
LIMA – Pope Leo XIV sought to reassure Catholics in his first interview published Thursday that he would not change key doctrine on gay marriage and women deacons, after his predecessor’s divisive papacy.
The US-born pontiff, elected four months ago, struck a different tone to outspoken Pope Francis, whose attempts to open the Church for the modern era enraged traditionalists.
In an interview with US journalist Elise Ann Allen for the book “Pope Leo XIV: Global Citizen, Missionary of the 21st
KRAMATORSK, Ukraine – Near bloody battles between Ukrainian and Russian forces in east Ukraine, a very different kind of conflict is taking place: a battle for believers’ souls.
Two rival Orthodox churches -- one set up with Ukrainian government backing in 2018 and the other an older church tied to Moscow -- compete for followers in Kramatorsk, some 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the front line.
Kyiv has sought to ban the Moscowlinked Ukrainian Orthodox Church, arguing Russia has used it to spread influence, and accusing many of its priests of being Russian agents.
Most Ukrainians have switched to the newly created Orthodox Church of Ukraine. But some in the east -- typically older, Russian-speaking parishioners -are hesitant.
In a narrow wooden chapel made partly of chipboard, Archpriest Oleksandr Tkachuk of the Kyiv-backed OCU gave an impassioned homily to his congregation, just a handful of people.
“Beware of false churches, false prophets,” he told them.
Built in 2019, his church has fewer followers and has struggled to expand its flock.
Tkachuk is convinced his rival, the UOC, is an arm of Russia.
“It’s just the FSB (Russian intelligence agency) under the guise of the church,” he said, packing up his altar.
Russia’s 2022 invasion prompted many Ukrainians to cut ties with anything associated with Moscow. AFP
Century,” Leo admitted that “people want the church doctrine to change, want attitudes to change.”
But he said “we have to change attitudes before we even think about changing what the Church says about any given question.”
Leo said he shared Francis’s desire to welcome everyone in to the Church, “but I don’t invite a person in because they are or are not of any specific identity.”
His predecessor, who died in April aged 88, made numerous statements welcoming people traditionally seen as “sinners”
Trump’s UK state visit gets political after royal welcome
LONDON – After the royal hospitality and pageantry, US President Donald Trump’s unprecedented second state visit to the UK takes a serious turn on Thursday when he is hosted by Prime Minister Keir Starmer for wide-ranging talks.
Starmer will greet Trump on the second day of the visit at his country residence, Chequers, with pressing issues such as trade, Ukraine and Gaza on the agenda.
The prime minister has positioned himself as a bridge between the unpredictable US leader and European allies, particularly on the war in Ukraine, in a bid to secure more commitments for Kyiv from Trump.
Starmer’s warm tone with Trump -in stark contrast to his words while in opposition -- has won some leniency in the president’s trade war, with the two
countries signing an “economic prosperity deal” at the White House in May.
Britain hopes to secure further concessions, and is keen to see 25-percent duties on aluminum and steel reduced to zero, but Trump’s non-committal comments suggest an agreement is not imminent.
“They’d like to see if they could get a little bit better deal. So, we’ll talk to them,” Trump said before leaving for Britain.
However, Starmer received a boost when US private equity giant Blackstone said it planned to invest £90 billion ($123 billion) on UK projects over the next decade, after Microsoft unveiled a plan to spend $30 billion in the country.
In the other direction, British pharmaceutical group GSK announced that it will invest $30 billion in the United States over the next five years. AFP
have long been at odds with Western governments, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. Dong’s remarks also touched on China’s protection of maritime interests -- a topic that ruffles feathers in the region and beyond.
Several countries are currently ensnared in longstanding disputes with Beijing over sovereignty in the contested South China Sea. Recent months have seen a series of confrontations between China and close US ally the Philippines in the crucial waterway. Beijing claims almost all of the area despite an international ruling that the assertion has no basis. AFP
into the Church.
But Leo said it was “highly unlikely, certainly in the near future,” that Church doctrine on sexuality or marriage would change.
“I think that the Church’s teaching will continue as it is,” he said in the book, published Thursday in Spanish in Peru, where Leo lived for nearly 20 years as a missionary.
The decision by Francis to authorize blessings for same-sex couples in very limited circumstances sparked a backlash from conservatives, particularly in Africa and the United States. AFP
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UN Gaza investigator hopeful Israeli leaders will be prosecuted
and false”.
But for Pillay, the parallels to Rwanda -- where some 800,000 people, mostly ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus, were slaughtered -- are clear.
As head of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, she says watching footage of civilians being killed and tortured had marked her “for life.” AFP
WORLD PEACE THREATENED. Chinese military delegates attend the opening ceremony of the Xiangshan Forum at the Beijing International Convention Center in Beijing on Sept. 18, 2025. The defense forum comes with anticipation growing over a potential meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump. Recent months have seen a series of confrontations between China and close US ally the Philippines in the crucial waterway. AFP
IN BRIEF
DOTr set to tear down outdated PNR stations
TRANSPORTATION acting Secre-
tary Giovanni Lopez led an inspection on Thursday, Sept. 18, of the old Philippine National Railways (PNR) stations in Cabuyao and Santa Rosa that are set to be demolished.
The inspection focused on the atgrade railway stations, which will be dismantled to make way for the construction of 18 modern elevated terminals under the South Commuter Railway Project, a key component of the NorthSouth Commuter Railway system.
According to the Department of Transportation, right-of-way negotiations are expected to be completed by the latter part of 2026. This step is crucial to ensuring that the large-scale infrastructure project proceeds without delays.
The South Commuter Railway, once operational, is envisioned to greatly reduce travel time across Luzon. From Clark in Pampanga to Calamba in Laguna, the entire trip will be shortened to just about two hours. Roy Tomandao
Abandoned marijuana ba es NAIA security
THE Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNPAvsegroup) has initiated an investigation to locate and identify the owner of 49 grams of abandoned marijuana retrieved from a restroom of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport - Terminal 2. A janitor who found the illegal substance dumped in a trash bin in a male comfort room promptly notified airport security.
Personnel from the PNP-Avsegroup arrived at the scene, secured the area, and collaborated with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (IADITG). A K9 unit confirmed a positive indication of illegal drugs.
Probers are now reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing potential witnesses to gather more information to determine how the substance ended up in such a secure location and whether any security protocols were breached. Joel E. Zurbano
PMC to hold marathon at FB parade ground
THE Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) will stage the “Karangalan” Marathon 2025 on Oct. 19 at the Bonifacio Naval Station (BNS) grandstand and parade ground in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, as part of its 75th founding anniversary celebration. Proceeds from the marathon will support the unit’s three advocacies—educational assistance for Marine Corps scholars, aid for the children of fallen and wounded Marines, and logistical support for Marines deployed to border islands and maritime frontiers, including the West Philippine Sea.
Now on its eighth iteration, the run-fora-cause highlights the PMC’s 75 years of “untarnished service and unwavering commitment” to defending the country while upholding honor above all.
This year’s marathon will be nationwide in scope and is poised to become Southeast Asia’s biggest annual military marathon, with seven legs set to take place simultaneously in Metro Manila, Laoag, Subic, Puerto Princesa City, Zamboanga City, Cotabato City, and Tawi-Tawi. Rex Espiritu
RAINFOREST
Medical parole eyed for aging PDLs
By Maricel V. Cruz
THE Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has expressed support for a bill granting medical parole to inmates 70 years old and above, as well as those terminally ill or severely incapacitated.
BuCor director general Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. made the statement before legislators during a budget briefing on the proposed 2026 allocation for the Department of Justice and its attached agencies.
During the briefing, Akbayan partylist Rep. Perci Cendaña inquired on the
initiatives being undertaken by BuCor to decongest jails across the country. Catapang told the House Committee on Appropriations that currently, they are transferring inmates to various operating prison and penal in the countryside to decongest the National Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City.
Catapang told the panel committee chaired by Nueva Ecija Rep. Mikaela Suansing that the bill proposes to institutionalize a system of medical parole for elderly and medically incapacitated prisoners, based on humanitarian considerations and global best practices. The measure also aims to ensure their dignity, provide appropriate medical care for the persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) outside the confines of prison.
Countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have adopted legal frameworks for compassionate or medical parole, recognizing that continued incarceration of terminally
SEARCH FOR FLOOD HEROES. A large tarpaulin announces the launch of Cebu City’s movement to address persistent ash oods with the involvement of practically all sectors of society. Minerva Newman
Cebu set to launch own multi-sector ood control campaign
By Minerva Newman
WHILE the national government is waging an aggressive campaign to address massive corruption in its flood control program, Cebu City is set to launch its own multi-sector flood prevention drive.
The initiative, dubbed “Be a Part of Flood Hero Cebu” will be rolled out on Sept. 27 at the Cebu Coliseum along Sanciangco St., Cebu City. In a press conference held Thursday at the Cebu City Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) boardroom, CCCI president Jay Yuvallos and lawyer Anastasio Muntuerto, Jr. of the Cebu Citizens Initiative said the movement aims to mobilize more than one million local residents as they underscored the importance of community and private sector involvement.
Muntuerto and Yuvallos expressed opti-
mism about the movement’s potential to grow and make positive contributions to the overall flood control efforts.
“There is a need for collective management of resources and breath with a call to action for a floodfree Cebu,” they noted.
“We want everyone to unite and awaken the flood hero within us. Let us all mobilize and educate our community and call on our government to fulfil their role in addressing the flood-related issues to build a liveable Cebu, characterized by social order and a robust economy for Cebu,” Yuvallos said.
He added that this is the time to take the initiative and save Cebu from the floods, one bucket per household at a time.
The Cebu Citizens Initiative, in collaboration with the CCCI, also intends to organize the Flood Free Cebu Summit and the Flood Hero Cebu
Movement on launch day.
The movement seeks to raise public awareness and education, with a focus on community participation and non-structural mitigations.
Proponents of the project are looking at four key areas of focus for the movement—community participation, non-structural mitigations, diverse community needs, and capacity building.
Yuvallos cited the importance of “capacitating the community to participate effectively” in the movement.
Various organizations, including the Rotary Club, JCS, churches, fraternities, schools, and the academe, have expressed eagerness to join as key partners of the movement. Initial support from big companies came in on the heels of the organizers’ call for wider involvement across all sectors of society.
Ifugao province marks 80th Day of Victory; honors WWII heroes
IFUGAO province celebrated recently its 80th Victory Day with the World War II National Shrine in Kiangan town serving as center stage of the commemorative rites. Ifugao, home of the worldfamous rice terraces observes Sept. 2 as a day of victory and valor, marking the surrender of Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita of the Japanese Imperial Army to Filipino freedom fighters in the mountains of Kiangan exactly 80 years ago. War veteran Pedro Indunan, now 112 years old, became an instant star of the show.
The commemoration ceremonies were spearheaded by the Ifugao
provincial government in collaboration with the local government unit of Kiangan, the Veterans Affairs Office, and the Veterans Federation of the Philippines.
The two-day affair had for its theme “Saluting the Guardians of Valor, Saluting Their Valor” in honor of the “gallant warriors who fought to liberate the archipelago from Japan.”
The events were highlighted by the traditional wreath-laying and 21-gun salute graced by guest of honor and speaker, Armed Forces chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.
In his keynote address, Brawner said the observance was “both a celebration of the uncommon valor
ill or severely incapacitated inmates may constitute inhumane treatment and serve no legitimate penal objective.
“Our penal system faces chronic challenges, notably overcrowding, inadequate healthcare, and a rapidly growing population of elderly PDLs, “Catapang said. He noted that many prisoners over the age of 70 grapple with chronic illnesses that limit their ability to care for themselves and pose minimal risks to public safety. Current estimates indicate that there are between 500 to 1,000 elderly individuals incarcerated, with approximately 100 categorized as terminally ill.
Embassy looks after Filipino detainees in Jordan jails
By Katrina Manubay
PHILIPPINE ambassador to Jordan Wilfredo Santos and labor attaché Armi Evangel Peña on Monday (Sept. 15) visited Filipino detainees at the Juweidah Women’s Correctional Facility and the South Amman Nadara - Temporary Detention Center in Amman. Peña informed the officials in both detention facilities on the Philippine government’s financial assistance to the detained Filipinos, amounting to 600 Jordanian dinars (roughly $ 850) each, documented or not.
This follows the Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac’s approval of the one-time cash assistance for detained Filipinos in Jordan. Santos conveyed his gratitude to the officials of the Juweidah Prison and the South Amman Nadara Temporary Detention Center for ensuring the welfare of the Filipinos detainees pending their repatriation or resolution of their cases.
There are currently 22 Filipino women detained in the facilities, 21 in Juweidah, and one in South Amman Nadara.
This prison visit, undertaken regularly by the Philippine Embassy and MWO-Jordan, also served also as an opportunity to meet with the Filipinos inmates to advise them on the continuing actions taken by the Philippine government to protect their legal rights.
of our forebears who fought for our freedom, and a continuing quest for peace even in the midst of the territorial tension in Southeast Asia.”
“The guardians whom we honor today are our own ancestors. Their sacrifices are in the soil beneath us, their courage is in our heritage and their legacy lives on in everyone of us, the proud people of the Cordilleras and of the Philippines,” Brawner said.
“You are the living embodiment of our nation’s history. In your youth you carried the weight of war so that we may carry the gift of peace. This commemoration is about honoring the legacy that you have continued to entrust to us, a legacy that we vow to protect and uphold for generations to come,” he added.
REENACTING A HISTORIC MOMENT. Armed Forces
Brawner Jr. receives
Japanese sword
Ifugao
Jerry Dalipog who acts as
Tomoyuki Yamashita in a re-enactment of THE Japanese Imperial Army’s surrender to Filipino freedom ghters at the hills of
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
Eala back in PH, trains at Manila
Polo Club for Chinese tourney
ALEXANDRA Eala is training hard this week at the Manila Polo Club courts in Makati City to get ready for the 2025 Jingshan Tennis Open in China. Moving up to world no. 57 in the latest Women’s Tennis Association rankings on Monday, Eala is the top-seeded player in the first edition of the tournament, a WTA 125-level event.
The 20-year-old Eala will be seeking her second crown afte claiming her maiden WTA 125 trophy at the Guadalajara Open less than two weeks ago. With a total prize money of $115,000 up for grabs, Eala will also go after the $22,730 top purse that is at stake for the women’s singles winner in the event slated from Sept. 22 to 28.
Last June, Eala was a runner-up in the WTA 250 Eastbourne Open in Great Britain.
After that, Eala’s ranking leapt to five spots from no. 61 after she advanced to the quarterfinals of the WTA 250 São Paulo Open in Brazil, where she lost to Indonesia’s Janice Tjen.
Australian Talia Gibson is the second seeded player, while Tamara Korpatsch of Germany is the no. 3. Eala could have joined the China Open, which is a WTA 1000 event in Beijing. But she decided to go for the WTA level 125 event in Hubei province. Peter Atencio
More than a race, Samal 5150 aims for global impact
THE inaugural Damosa Land 5150 Triathlon unwrapping Sunday (Sept. 21) promises more just a test of athletic strength – it’s a bold step toward putting Mindanao on the global map.
Designed for both potential triathletes and seasoned competitors, the race offers a unique mix of challenge and charm, set against the breathtaking backdrop of a tropical paradise. From a 1.5km swim in Samal’s crystal-clear waters, a 40km bike ride along scenic coastal roads, to a 10km run weaving through the island’s vibrant community and business districts, every part of the course showcases the island’s natural beauty and cultural warmth.
But the event is not just about personal victories – it’s about a collective leap forward.
“Our efforts have always been deeply rooted in initiatives that spark a ripple effect of progress. Through events like this, we not only celebrate athletic excellence but also aim to uplift the broader community – from tourism and hospitality to local businesses and grassroots development,” said Cary Lagdameo, president of Damosa Land, Inc.
At the heart of the event is Bridgeport, Damosa Land’s marine lifestyle development, which serves as the iconic venue for the race. With its scenic waterfront views and modern amenities, it underscores Samal’s potential as not just a neighbor to Davao City, but a world-class destination in its own right.
“It’s time to show the world the beauty, talent and quality of service that Mindanao has to offer,” added Lagdameo. “This is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of what makes Samal special.”
With nearly 1,100 participants expected to compete, the Damosa Land 5150 is already shaping up to be a landmark race organized by Sunrise Events, Inc.
“Every stroke, every pedal, and every step is a vote of confidence for this city and region as one of Asia’s must-visit destinations,”
DROSE WOWS PH
the
Tunisia, Serbia march on to FIVB worlds’ Final 16
By Peter Atencio
TUNISIA and Serbia secured spots in the Round of 16 of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship on Thursday at the Mall of Asia in Pasay City.
Mahdi Ben Tahar’s block in the third set allowed the Tunisian spikers to win the final match point and repulse African champion Egypt, 2519, 25-18, 25-22, in Pool A, earning them the first quarterfinals’ slot in their bracket.
Elyes Karamosli went on to finish with a game-high 14 points off his attacks and help Tunisia reach the quarterfinal stage with their 2-1 winloss card in their bracket.
Serbia earned quarterfinal qualification in Pool H, posting a 25-22, 2520, 25-22 upset of world no. 3 Brazil.
This gave Serbia a Round of 16 slot with its 2-1 slate, putting Brazil on the brink of elimination with a 1-1 card.
With their qualification, Tunisia and Serbia joined eight other qualified squads -- Team USA, Slovenia,
Bulgaria, Portugal, Canada, Turkey, the Netherlands and Belgium to the next phase, even as seven more are still at stake.
The Brazilians now need to wait for the outcome of the match between Czechia and China later on Thursday to know their fate.
Opposite Dražen Luburić led Serbia’s team’s offense with 19 points, which included 17 kills and two aces. In Pool C, Finland took a step towards qualification for the Round of 16 in smashing Korea, 25-18, 2523, 17-25, 25-21 in the first match of the day at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Luka Marttila carried Finland with 25 points, which consisted of 22 kills and three blocks.
Redemption, domination define JPGT Vis-Min Series finale
BACOLOD—Redemption and domination marked the opener of the final leg of the ICTSI Junior PGT Visayas-Mindanao Series as Ana Marie Aguila r and Lucas Revilleza surged ahead in the 7-10 age division, while Ralph Batican and Tashanah Balangauan reasserted their mastery of their respective classes in the Bacolod JPGT Championship on Thursday.
Aguilar, who finished second to runaway winner Denise Mendoza at Marapara last Tuesday, fired an 83 at the demanding par-70 Bacolod Golf and Country Club under sweltering heat – more than enough to secure a seven-stroke lead over Faith Reosura in the girls’ youngest category.
Although Aguilar won’t be eligible for the Elite Junior Finals, having fallen short of the required minimum of three-event participation, the Bacolod native remains determined to cap her campaign with a win on Friday.
“I chipped close to the hole and putted really well,” said the 9-year-old St. Scholastica Academy-Bacolod standout Aguilar, who displayed composure on the greens, while noting how the Binitin surface played slower compared to
ANTONIO G. Racelis, a promising 10-year-old talent in the world of kart racing from Lipa City, Batangas is taking his talents to the world stage to test his mettle against top global challengers in one of go-karting’s most prestigious world championships, the ROK Cup Superfinal.
Taking place at the South Garda Karting in Lonato (Italy) from October 14 to 18, the event will host more than 400 participants from over 35 different nations.
Nicknamed “Anton,” Racelis is no stranger to the track having competed in various races for three years now. He quickly ascended the ranks in the professional karting world as he pursues his dream of competing one day in Formula One.
He began his karting career at the age of seven and has since consistently displayed remarkable dedication and perseverance, skillfully balancing his demanding racing schedule with his other responsibilities and academic commitments at Stonyhurst Southville International School - Lipa.
Racelis’ impressive track record includes eight national championship titles, two of which he won just this year -- the ROK GP Cup Philippine Series in Carmona Racing Track, Carmona, Cavite Round 1 and the ROK GP Cup Philippine Series in Palawan International Circuit, Puerto Princesa, Palawan Round 3.
He also holds eight 1st runner-up titles, four 2nd runners-up, three 3rd runners-up, and two 4th runner-up crowns both locally and internationally.
His recent victories in the ROK GP Cup Philippine Series and ROK Cup Asia has secured him a spot as an official qualifier for the upcoming ROK Cup Superfinal. He is vying for a place in South Garda Karting, backed by extensive experience on various racing tracks here and abroad. These include the Coloane Karting Track in Macau, RUD Karting Sepang International Track and Morac Go-Kart International in Malaysia, Bira Go Kart Circuit in Thailand, and Kartodromo Internacional Lucas Guerrero in Spain. Even with the stiff competition he will be facing during the race in Lonato, Racelis remains optimistic about the championship. Having undertaken thorough preparations, he expresses a certainty of success.
Marapara. “I’m very excited to win tomorrow, and I expect to shoot a lot of pars.”
But out to spoil her bid is Reosura, who, despite a 90, is aiming for a strong finish and an improvement on her third-place showing at Marapara. Cagayan de Oro’s Francesca Geroy shot a 91 for third, virtually locking up the fourth and last Finals berth in the division set for Sept. 30 – Oct. 3 at The Country Club. Leading the Vis-Min team to the Finals are Mendoza, Soleil Molde and Claren Quiño. In the boys’ 7-10 class, Lucas Revilleza, who also finished second to Ethan Lago at Marapara, carded a gritty 73 to take a four-stroke lead over Lago, who struggled to a 78 in tougher conditions. James Rolida of CDO shot an 84 for third, with Tobias Tiongko and Shaqeeq Tanog turning in 87 and 90, respectively.
While Revilleza is poised for a win to complete the final cast, both Rolida and Tanog are aiming for nothing less than a victory to keep their slim hopes for a backdoor entry alive. Revilleza, 8, bounced back from a forgettable performance at Marapara with a stellar showing at Binitin.
While zoning in on his main goal of pursuing to be the MiniROK Karter of the Year for the year 2025, Racelis’ main focus right now is set on the upcoming Italy championship.
“He’s been training a lot. Prior to the event itself, he will be competing for the 7th round of ROK GP Cup Philippine Series in Carmona, Cavite for more seat time and enhance his racecraft before heading to Italy. Then he will be completing his practices in Lonato to get to know more about the track. I, my wife, Jimyleen, and the entire family support him all the way on this,” said Anthony Racelis, Anton’s father.
“When I close my eyes, I see myself at the front, crossing the finish line — a reminder that with dedication,
FANS. Global basketball superstar Derrick Rose ashes
victory sign in front of his Filipino fans during the “Derrick Rose in Manila” event presented by ArenaPlus Sportsbook at the Space at ONE Ayala. Edwin Rollon
Denise Mendoza Manny Marcelo
Tunisian spiker Elyes Karamosli
Antonio G. Racelis in action
Anton Racelis with his father Anthony
DA chief orders audit of farm-to-market roads
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) has ordered a comprehensive audit of all “farm-to-market road” projects undertaken since 2021, following a government probe into questionable flood-control works.
DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the audit would cover projects where the department identifies and validates the roads, while the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) handles bidding and construction.
“These roads are meant to connect production areas to markets. With what is happening now in floodcontrol projects, I ordered an audit of
strong trade ties with US, China
A CHINESE policy expert has advised the Philippines to maintain strong trade relations with both the United States and China, its two largest trading partners.
“It will be suicidal if you want to be friends with one and an enemy with the other,” said Victor Gao, vice president of the Center for China and Globalization (CCG).
“Being friends with both China and the United States probably will be the best strategy for the Philippines,” he said.
Gao made the comments on Wednesday at the 14th Manila Forum for Philippines-China Relations, held at Shangri-La The Fort. The event was coorganized and co-sponsored by the Association for Philippines-China Understanding (APCU).
Gao urged the Philippines to champion free trade, warning that protectionism could destabilize the global economy. He described Washington’s reciprocal tariff regime as “the wrong war” and said the tariffs are “misguided and harmful,” creating unnecessary strain and weakening confidence in the global trading system.
The Philippines is subject to a 19-percent tariff imposed by the US, effective Aug. 7, 2025. The rate is slightly lower than the 20 percent originally threatened, but higher than the 17 percent the US announced in April.
A US appeals court recently ruled that most elements of the tariff regime were unconstitutional. The Trump administration has since elevated the case to the Supreme Court, which is scheduled to review it in October. Othel V. Campos
all farm-to-market road projects from 2021 to 2025,” he said in a statement Thursday.
“We must ensure these are done properly, that taxpayers’ money was spent to provide farmers with market access, and not diverted into farm-topocket projects,” he said.
Tiu Laurel said the audit should be completed by the end of the year, and any issues found would be reported to
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The Philippines aims to build 131,000 kilometers of such roads. As of July, around 70,000 kilometers had been completed.
Tiu Laurel urged lawmakers to pass a law mandating a priority list for the projects, moving away from arbitrary site selection. He also proposed a review of the list every three years.
Funding remains a challenge, he said. The DA earmarked P16 billion for the roads in its 2026 budget, far below the P56 billion in pending requests carried over from 2025.
Tiu Laurel is also pushing for narrower, three-meter roadways to cut costs and speed up construction.
130,000 km
Target farm-tomarket roads
70,000 km
Farm-to-market roads completed
P16 billion
2026 budget for FMR roads
By Jenniffer B. Austria
CANNED fruit maker and producer Del Monte Pacific Ltd (DMPL) said Thursday it booked $703.4 million in impairment losses for the fiscal year ended April 2025 after it discontinued its US operations.
DMPL’s US subsidiary Del Monte Foods Holdings Ld. Inc. (DMHFL) filed for bankruptcy in the US in July.
DMFHL and its subsidiaries,
including Del Monte Foods Corporation II, Inc., were classified as discontinued operations as of April 30, 2025, in accordance with IFRS 5, and deconsolidated from DMPL effective May 1, 2025, in accordance with IFRS 10.
An independent auditor’s report from Ernst & Young LLP noted that it could not fully verify the carrying value of assets and liabilities or investment in the US subsidiary due
to the ongoing court process.
“Our responsibility is to conduct an audit of the financial statements in accordance with ISA [International Standards on Auditing] and to issue an auditors’ report. However, because of the matters described in the Basis for Disclaimer of Opinion section of our report, we were not able to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence to provide a basis for an audit opinion on these financial statements,” the report said. Meanwhile, DMPL also reported a net loss of $796.4 million for fiscal year 2025, wider than the $129.2-million net loss it recorded the previous year. Excluding US operations, net income reached $48.9 million in fiscal year 2025, a turnaround from the $24.8 million net loss recorded in fiscal year 2024. Revenues rose to $789.4 million from $710.8 million.
By Darwin G. Amojelar and Roy Tomandao
DEPARTMENT of Transportation
(DOTr) acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez is pushing for faster construction of the Manila-Laguna section of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) to bring its benefits to commuters sooner. The directive follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s order to expedite major transportation projects aimed at improving passenger comfort. Lopez said the demolition of Philippine National Railways (PNR) stations from Sta. Mesa in Manila to Cabuyao, Laguna, would be carried
CDC DIRECTOR. Clark Development Corporation (CDC) chairman Edgardo Pamintuan (right) administers the oath of office to the newly appointed member of the CDC board of directors Roberto Atendido. Atendido brings more than four decades of investment banking experience, having worked in the Philippines, Hong Kong and Indonesia, providing financial services to clients in the ASEAN region.
Source: CDC
out simultaneously to speed up construction.
“The demolition of PNR stations is simultaneous. There are 10 all the way from Sta. Mesa,” Lopez said during the demolition of the station in Cabuyao. He said the demolition was necessary to allow for the completion of the viaduct. “We cannot do this without the help of the local government,” he said. The demolitions included PNR stations in Cabuyao and Sta. Rosa. Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan and Muntinlupa Mayor Rozzano Rufino Biazon also oversaw the demolition of the PNR Alabang Station.
Gov’t offices asked to install solar rooftops
By Alena Mae S. Flores
GOVERNMENT agencies in the Philippines are now required to use energy-efficient products and prioritize solar rooftop installations to cut energy consumption and promote sustainability, the Department of Energy (DOE) said Thursday.
The Inter-Agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Committee (IAEECC) approved the measure in a resolution on Sept. 16, the DOE said in a statement.
“Every peso the government saves on electricity is a peso we can redirect to vital services for our people,” Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said in the statement.
“By requiring energy-efficient products and prioritizing solar rooftops, we are not only reducing costs but also setting an example for every household, business and community,” she said.
The resolution directs government offices to comply with Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) under the Philippine Energy Labeling Program (PELP).
The measure is expected to reduce public sector electricity use and accelerate the shift to cleaner technologies as part of the Government Energy Management Program (GEMP).
The IAEECC is also reviewing a joint memorandum circular that would establish dedicated energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) offices in local government units.
The measure aims to empower local government units to design tailored energy-saving programs and give communities more control over their consumption, the DOE said.
US Fed rate cut fuels third straight day of gains for PH stock market
THE Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) gained for the third straight day, following the U.S. Federal Reserve’s first policy rate cut of the year.
The benchmark PSEi advanced 22.96 points, or 0.37 percent, to close at 6,233.62. The wider allshares index inched up 5.84 points, or 0.16 percent, to 3,734.45.
The peso slid to 57.06 to the U.S. dollar on Thursday, from 56.89 on Wednesday.
The US Fed not only cut rates but also hinted at two more rate cuts this year to support the country’s weakening labor market.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas could match future U.S. Fed rate cuts.
Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said a potential rate cut by the BSP
could boost market sentiment and provide a catalyst.
“Investors are optimistic that a more accommodative monetary stance will support economic activity and asset valuations,” Limlingan said.
Sectors ended mixed. Holding firms rose 1.09 percent, followed by industrials, which went up 1.04 percent, and services, which gained 0.36 percent.
Conversely, mining and oil plunged 2.5 percent, and financials and property fell 0.62 percent and 0.57 percent, respectively.
Value turnover amounted to P6.78 billion. Market breadth was nearly even, with 89 advancers and 88 decliners. Sixty-six stocks were unchanged.
Shares of Puregold Price Club Inc. rose 2.73 percent to P45.20. On the other hand, Ayala Land Inc. shares declined 2.88 percent to P26.95. Jenniffer B. Austria
Megaworld raises P2.2b from sale of MREIT shares
By Jenniffer B. Austria
EGAWORLD Corp. said Thursday it sold 168.63 million common shares of real estate investment trust company MREIT Inc. for P2.239 billion.
The shares were sold on Sept. 17, 2025 at P13.28 per share, representing a 4.46-percent discount to MREIT’s closing price of P13.90 the previous day.
Settlement of the transaction is scheduled on Sept. 19, 2025, Megaworld said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.
Megaworld said it would submit a reinvestment plan outlining the intended use of the proceeds from the sale in compliance with regulatory requirements.
Maybank Securities, BDO Securities, First Metro Securities and RCBC Securities served as brokers for the transaction. This is the second time this
P13.82 each.
MREIT in October 2024 acquired six prime office properties worth P13.15 billion from Megaworld via a property-for-share swap deal.
MREIT’s gross leasable area stands at 482,000 square meters, and the company expects to reach 600,000 sq. m. by end-2025.
It aims to keep growing by expanding its GLA by around 100,000 sq. m. every year to achieve its growth target of 1 million sq. m. by 2030.
Its portfolio comprises 24 prime office properties in five Megaworld premier townships: Eastwood City, McKinley Hill, McKinley West, Iloilo Business Park and Davao Park District.
MREIT reported plans to conduct two to three major asset infusions over the next two years.
Backed by a strong pipeline from its sponsor Megaworld, MREIT is also evaluating the infusion of retail assets, which are expected to be part of the portfolio.
DIGIPLUS Interactive Corp., the company behind online gaming platforms BingoPlus, ArenaPlus and GameZone, has teamed up with Philippine First Insurance Co. (PhilFirst) to launch what they say is the country’s first surety bond program for online gaming players. The program aims to provide financial protection for eligible users, covering player balances of up to P1 million, DigiPlus said in a stock exchange disclosure on Thursday.
“DigiPlus is proud to be the first in the industry to roll out this level of consumer protection,” DigiPlus chairman Eusebio Tanco said.
“With this surety bond, they can play confidently on BingoPlus, ArenaPlus and GameZone, knowing that their funds are safeguarded,” he said.
The move comes as the government and legislators call for stricter regulation of the online gaming industry.
To qualify for the surety bond, players should complete an electronic Know-Your-Customer (eKYC) verification, make at least one successful deposit and be in good standing with platform guidelines. The surety bond applies automatically to all eligible players with no separate policy purchase required. Jenniffer B. Austria
FOOD and beverage company RFM Corp. expects its 2025 net income to surpass the P1.4 billion profit it recorded in 2024, driven by strong sales and lower commodity costs.
Jose Ma. Concepcion III, RFM president and chief executive, said in a stock exchange disclosure that key drivers of the company’s growth for 2025 include softer commodity prices and good volume growth across its brands.
“The recent flooding and heavy rainfall this third quarter posed a challenge to our logistics, but underlying demand seemed resilient,” Concepcion said. “We expect this consumer demand to continue through the fourth quarter, helped by easing inflation.”
As the company is on track for a better income performance, its board approved a P300 million cash dividend for eligible shareholders. The
dividend, equivalent to P0.08903 per share, will be payable on Oct. 22, 2025, to shareholders on record as of Oct. 1, 2025.
This latest dividend declaration, the fourth for the year, brings RFM’s total cash dividends for 2025 to P1 billion, lower than the P1.3 billion paid in 2024.
Concepcion said the company’s balance sheet is “very strong” and can support this level of cash dividends while still having extra cash for “any big capex or potential acquisition.”
At a share price of P4.27 on Sept. 16, 2025, RFM’s 2025 dividend yield is 7 percent. RFM’s products include
also has a joint
in
Selecta Milk, Fiesta and Royal Pasta, and flour and buns. The company
venture
the country’s leading ice cream company, which sells Magnum, Cornetto, and Selecta ice cream. Jenniffer B. Austria
FEDEX’S AWARDS. FedEx Philippines stands out at the 2025 HR
Excellence Awards with three major honors for its workforce excellence and leadership development. Joining Maribeth Espinosa, managing director of FedEx Philippines, are representatives from the company’s Human Resources and Management team.
SUSTAINABILITY REPORT. Evelyn Leiva (sixth from left), Operadora Portuaria Centroamericana (OPC) chief CSR & sustainability officer, and Juan Carlos Corujo (seventh from left), lead the launch of the company’s first ever sustainability report. OPC, International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s subsidiary in Honduras, is the first port in the country and the region to publish such document.
Recto asks all BOC district collectors to protect borders
By Darwin G. Amojelar
DSpeaking at the BOC Collectors Conference in Mactan, Cebu, Recto said a porous border “punctures our coffers, creates revenue leaks, and takes away funds that should have been rightfully spent for the future of our people.”
The BOC is the Philippines’ second-largest revenue-collecting agen-
By Alena Mae S. Flores
ABOITIZ Power Corp. said Thursday its board approved the early redemption option for its P2.5-billion bonds issued in 2018.
AboitizPower said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange its board approved the early redemption option for its outstanding 10-year fixed rate retail bonds issued in 2018, with a fixed interest rate of 8.5091 percent per annum or the “2018 Series C Bonds”. “The company will fully prepay the 2018 Series C Bonds in September 2025 using the proceeds from the retail bonds the company issued earlier this year,” AboitizPower said.
AboitizPower said it is coordinating with BDO Unibank Inc.-Trust and Investments Group and the Philippine Depository and Trust Corp. (the trustee and registrar/paying agent), respectively for the 2018 Series C Bonds for the issuance of the corresponding notices and the computation of the amounts due to the bondholders.
AboitizPower raised P30 billion in July 2025 from the issuance of fixedretail bonds.
The first part consists of Series A bonds with a fixed interest rate of 5.8846 percent per annum due 2027, Series B bonds with a fixed interest rate of 6.2934 percent per annum due 2030 and Series C bonds with a fixed interest rate of 6.8572 percent per annum due 2035, equivalent to up to P20 billion with an oversubscription option for another P10 billion.
cy, tasked with raising P1.06 trillion this year, according to the government’s Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing. This is equivalent to roughly P3 billion a day.
Recto said P0.23 of every revenue peso and 17 centavos of every budget peso spent by the government are
funded by the BOC.
“If all government activities under the sun carry a price tag, then 17 percent of each one of them will be paid by you,” he said.
He said revenue loss from 50,000 sacks of smuggled rice, amounting to P36.7 million, could buy 22,518 bags of fertilizer, while a smuggled Bugatti Chiron, with an estimated revenue loss of P168 million, could fund the construction of 84 classrooms.
Revenue loss from 50,000 liters of gasoline, at P789,000, could provide Jollibee breakfast meals for 12,725 children, said Recto.
Recto urged collectors to be ac-
countable and to exercise integrity, adding that the Department of Finance (DOF) would fully support the BOC’s modernization and anti-corruption efforts.
He also called for the BOC to “think of creative solutions that will transform the Bureau into a truly world-class customs agency.”
Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno outlined his directives for district collectors. These include conducting regular performance assessments, eliminating the “white paper culture” to ensure transparency and strengthening “Customs Care” operations.
By Darwin G. Amojelar and Thony Rose Lesaca
ATOME, a digital finance platform, has signed a P2.75-billion loan channeling partnership with Maya Bank to expand access to credit for Filipinos.
“We are deeply honored to partner with Maya Bank, a true trailblazer in digital banking,” said Christian Quiros, president and country general manager of Atome Philippines.
“Together, we are expanding access to responsible, risk-managed and transparent flexible payment options,” said Quiros.
Maya Bank will provide credit
to qualified Filipinos as part of the initiative. The bank is part of the Maya ecosystem, which combines payments, savings, credit and deposits for both consumers and businesses.
“We are delighted to work with Atome in expanding credit access for more Filipinos,” said Angelo Madrid, president of Maya Bank.
“This collaboration leverages digital technology to bring fast, secure, and responsible financing into the hands of underserved customers,” said Madrid.
Atome, which began in Singapore in 2019, has expanded from an embedded financing provider to
THE Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) was recognized among government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs) for its dividend contributions during the 2025 GOCCs’ Day rites held on Sept. 16, 2025, in Malacañang.
AFAB ranked 29th nationwide, remitting P130 million to the National Treasury this year—up P50 million from its 2024 contribution.
AFAB administrator and chief executive Hussein Pangandaman received the recognition, accompanied by deputy administrator for operations Michael Angelo Paderanga and director Aurelio Angeles Jr.
The increase in remittance comes
digital divide
By Othel V. Campos
offering cards, lending, insurance and savings products. It processed over $2 billion in gross merchandise volume (GMV) in 2024 and surpassed $4 billion in June 2025. In the Philippines, it has served over 4 million “Buy Now, Pay Later” customers.
Launched in 2022, Maya Bank is the digital banking arm of the Maya ecosystem, which includes the Maya all-in-one app, Maya Business and Maya Center. It provides financial services such as savings, deposits, and credit to Filipino consumers and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
from stronger revenue performance of enterprises operating inside the Freeport Area of Bataan.
AFAB said the growth shows its ability to deliver fiscal resources to the government while fulfilling its mandate to attract investments and sustain economic activity in Bataan. The Department of Finance (DOF) said dividend contributions from GOCCs are expected to further increase toward year-end, following the P116.84 billion already remitted as of September 2025. Under Republic Act 7656, or the Dividends Law, GOCCs are required to declare and remit at
cent of their annual net earnings to the national government.
“Connectivity
“There
he said. The PCCI also underscored the need for spectrum management to fast-track 5G deployment, stronger support for community networks and incentives for infrastructure sharing and open-access models to drive down costs and widen nationwide coverage.
PCCI president Enunina Mangio said broadband access should be prioritized as the foundation of inclusive growth, noting that rural areas should have the same level of access and reliability as urban centers.
IN BRIEF
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (second from right) presents the certificate of recognition to Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) administrator and chief executive Hussein Pangandaman during the 2025 GOCC’s Day rites on Sept. 16, 2025 at Malacañang. With them are (from left) Governance Commission for GOCCs chairperson Marius Corpuz, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and Finance Secretary Ralph Recto.
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said it expects the construction of the long-delayed Unified Grand Central Station (Common Station) to be completed by the first quarter of 2027.
“By the first quarter of 2027, the common station will be completed. It has been delayed for a long time. Finally, it will be completed in 2027,” acting DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez said during the DOTr’s radio program Sakay Na! on Radio Pilipinas.
The agency was planning to bid out through solicited mode the construction of the common station.
The agency earlier canceled the contract of BF Corp. and Foresight Development and Surveying Co. (BFC-FDSC), a company founded by late Marikina Mayor Bayani Fernando, for the common station project due to excessive construction delays of the project.
The issuance of notice of termination against BFC-FDSC Consortium follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directives to speed up and finally complete the construction of the common station
Common rail station seen completed by 2027
which has been ongoing since 2009 to ease and reduce travel time for commuters.
The P2.8-billion station features a 13,700-square meter concourse area which will seamlessly interconnect the rail lines of LRT-1, MRT-3, MRT7 and the much-awaited Metro Manila Subway.
The project has been stalled since 2009, but Former DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade settled the dispute on the location leading to its groundbreaking in September 2017.
Once operational, the station is expected to serve about 500,000 passengers daily.
Meanwhile, Lopez said the proposed MRT4 Project is currently in its consultancy phase.
The Philippine government is seeking a $1-billion loan from the ADB to finance the planned mass transport system that will run from
province.
The Metro Rail Transit Line 4 project would be a fully-elevated railway mass-transit system serving the eastern side of Metro Manila and the highly-populated areas of Rizal.
The 15.56-kilometer MRT4, with 11 stations, two other provisional stations in the future and a barrierfree design to allow inclusive access, is expected to address the transport bottleneck along Ortigas Avenue.
The ADB said the MRT4 project would provide a reliable, rapid, affordable and safe public transport and would reduce traffic congestions and commute/travel times from Taytay to the Ortigas CBD from one to three hours by road to less than half an hour by rail. It will also maintain the higheconomic growth and inclusive urban development of eastern Manila, the
Once fully operational, the P59.3billion MRT-4 trains could run 80 kilometers per hour at maximum speed and a commercial speed of 25 kilometers to 40 kilometers an hour.
The railway will cut across the cities of Mandaluyong, San Juan, Quezon, Pasig and the municipalities of Cainta and Taytay in Rizal, addressing the massive traffic problem and limited road capacities in the densely populated areas of eastern Metro Manila. It is expected to serve 4,464 passengers an at peak and 2,678 passengers an hour off-peak with an estimated travel time of 27 minutes from N. Domingo in San Juan City to Taytay, Rizal. The daily ridership is expected to reach 328,804 by 2030.
Darwin G. Amojelar
2GO cited by Toyota as key logistics partner
2GO, the Philippines’ largest integrated sea logistics provider, has been recognized by a leading automotive manufacturer for its role as a trusted partner in delivering efficient and reliable maritime transport solutions.
2GO Sea Solutions, the sea freight and maritime operations division of 2GO, continues to strengthen domestic logistics through the modernization of its ROPAX fleet, increased cargo capacity, and reliable sailing schedules. With priority berthing and established port routes, 2GO ensures the consistent and timely transport of goods across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
One of 2GO’s long-standing partners, Toyota Motor Philippines, cited the company’s efficiency and reliability as critical in supporting its nationwide vehicle distribution.
“The first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word or brand Toyota is reliability and durability. This is the result of Toyota values and protecting the superior customer experience. Similar to what we expect from our service providers, they should have the same values in
2GO powers the automotive industry’s distribution with reliable RORO and freight services.
ensuring safe vehicle movement and maintaining the high quality of Toyota vehicles to reach customers nationwide in the shortest possible time,” Sherwin T. Chua Lim, senior vice president –Marketing Division, Toyota Philippines said.
“The high sailing frequency and timeliness of 2GO’s ROPAX operations provided a significant advantage for Toyota, ensuring that fresh vehicles quickly reach Visayas and Mindanao dealers,” he added.
With regular sailings from Manila and Batangas to major hubs in the Visayas and Mindanao, 2GO ensures Toyota’s vehicles are delivered safely and on time to dealerships nationwide.
“Our partnership with Toyota Motor Philippines is built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to operational excellence,” Sharon Musngi-Ngo, vice president and Business UnithHead of 2GO Sea
Cebu Pacific named among global airlines with
Solutions said.
“Toyota is one of our most valued clients, and we remain committed to ensuring their success through reliable and efficient logistics solutions,” she added.
At the 2025 Toyota Supplier Conference, TMP recognized 2GO with five major awards: 2024 Superior Shipping Line Award, Most Outstanding Performer – Shipping Line (Large Category), Capacity and Service Enhancement Award, Shipment Compliance KPI Award, and the Safety KPI Award. These accolades underscore Toyota’s confidence in 2GO’s role as a logistics partner dedicated to safety, compliance, and consistent performance.
As the country’s foremost ROPAX (roll-on/roll-off passenger) and freight operator, 2GO provides frequency, efficiency, and nationwide reach through its nine ROPAX vessels, one freighter, and over 15,000 container vans, supported by nationwide trucking partners. With reliable port-toport and door-to-door services, 2GO delivers end-to-end logistics solutions that keep industries and communities connected.
lowest emissions
recognition, which affirms that our efforts are making a real impact. By investing in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft and adopting new technologies, we aim to keep fares affordable while making flying more sustainable for Filipinos,” said Aileen Isidro, CEB vice president for Corporate Strategy. CEB, the country’s aviation leader, attributed its ranking to a comprehensive decarbonization strategy anchored on fleet modernization and operational efficiency. In 2024, the airline placed the largest aircraft order in Philippine history—up to 152 aircraft in the A320neo family.
The NEO fleet alone enabled CEB to avoid an estimated 157,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions last year, with each aircraft delivering up to 20% fuel savings compared to previous-generation models. CEB also became the first lowcost carrier (LCC) in Southeast Asia to finance a brand-new A321neo through a sustainability-linked loan (SLL), tying financing costs directly to emissionsreduction performance. Beyond its fleet, CEB has also advanced its sustainability efforts on the ground, leading the way in deploying electric ground support equipment (GSE) at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
THE Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has launched its first-ever Seaport Special Response Course (SSRC), marking a milestone in enhancing the capabilities of its Port Police officers. The program, conducted in partnership with the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP SAF), is designed to prepare officers to maintain safety, order, and peace at PPA managed ports nationwide.
Top PPA executives gathered to witness the opening ceremony of SSRC Class 01-2025, where 24 Port Police officers will undergo 30 days of intensive training with the PNP SAF. The course focuses on equipping them with critical skills to prevent, respond to, and manage disasters, untoward incidents, and security threats at seaports.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago underscored the importance of honing officers’ abilities for highrisk operations. In his message, he called on the participants to pursue the training with integrity, dedication, and purpose.
“Study with dedication, train with integrity and lead with purpose. When the time comes that your skills are tested, this opportunity will be the foundation of your success. Not just for the mission, but for the lives you will protect and the ports you will guard. Just don’t let this be just a training exercise. Use it to deepen your responsibility to your colleagues, to the PPA and to the entire nation,”Santiago said. Guest of Honor and speaker PMGEN Mark Pespes, Director of the PNP SAF, likewise reminded the officers to apply their newfound skills responsibly and to live a life of service.
“Let’s ensure that what we have learned is used correctly, used in our work. Not to abuse, not for illegal activities. Sometimes, even in the south, our troops learn just to end up on some illegal activities. So a reminder to our colleagues,” Pespes said.
This latest program builds on previous initiatives to strengthen port security. In 2024, the Port Police completed the Basic Port Police Training Course at the PPA Training Center in La Union, which included modules on port operations, criminal law, firearms safety, water search and rescue, and endurance drills. With around 300 active Port Police officers currently deployed across major ports, the growing demand for personnel amid port expansions highlights the need for advanced and specialized training.
San Juan City to Taytay in Rizal
Ortigas CDB, Pasig City and the neighboring Rizal province, the ADB said.
Flight Emissions Review — the only Philippine carrier to make the list. lowest in the global aviation industry. “We are pleased to receive this
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,
Writer
JASPER VALDEZ,
By Angelica Villanueva
FIVE years ago, in an interview, BINI ’s leader Jhoanna was asked where she imagined the group in the future. Without skipping a beat, she answered that in five years, she saw BINI performing at Coachella.
Writer
‘Nation’s Girl Group’ BINI fulfills Coachella dream
Earlier this year, during the launch of The Official Philippines Chart, where the group bagged the Top Local Artist of the Year award, Jhoanna once again voiced the same goal.
Stacey was the first to spot the news. At first, they thought it was just an edited post online, until the official announcement confirmed what once seemed impossible. The girls admitted they now need to devote time to rehearsals to ensure their set reflects the best of P-pop on the global stage.
Star Magic head Lauren Dyogi credited the group’s hard work and reach.
“Our world tour paid off. The support of the Blooms was felt, and the work of our agent proved solid,” he said.
The excitement carried over to the group’s fan meeting, in partnership with Akari, on Sept. 16 at Enderun Colleges in Taguig, just hours after the announcement. BINI entered the venue singing “Salamin, Salamin,” welcomed by cheers from fans of all ages.
During the event, BINI members were on game to answer questions from the crowd.
“The authenticity, the joy, and the pride we bring. We want to normalize that our group is not perfect. We’re all humans. And also our pop songs,” said Aiah. That sense of honesty and relatability has long been part of BINI’s charm, and it was on full display during the fan meet. Even in lighthearted moments, the group found ways to connect their excitement with their music, showing fans how deeply personal their journey has become.
Jhoanna, still riding the high of the news, even playfully tweaked the lyrics of their hit “Lagi” during a fan interaction.
Halika, tara na, sa’n mo ba gustong pumunta? Sa Luzon, Visayas ba? O Coachella kaya ,” she sang.
Akari, which partnered with BINI in March, also marked the milestone with pride. Gerard Tan Akari’s director of digital technology, said their collaboration couldn’t have come at a better time.
“We’re happy to be partnered with the Philippines’ best. BINI embodies what it means to be Filipino locally and internationally. The Coachella news is huge, not just for them but for all of us,” said Tan.
The company recently launched nine specially designed fans in collaboration with BINI, created with different lifestyles in mind.
“To perform at Coachella and KCON together with the members,” she told Manila Standard Entertainment That statement has now become reality. The eight-member P-pop girl group, consisting of Jhoanna, Aiah Colet Maloi Gwen Stacey Mikha , and Sheena , is set to make history as the first Filipino act to perform at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California. They will take the stage on April 10 and 17, 2026, joining global names such as Sabrina Carpenter, KATSEYE, Creepy Nuts, Teddy Swims, and Max Dean For the “Nation’s Girl Group,” confirmation of its Coachella debut felt almost surreal.
didn’t expect it would happen so soon,”
Jhoanna said in an interview with ABSCBN News.
Colet shared the same sentiment, calling it their number one dream.
“We’re so happy, and our whole team is happy for us. This has always been our number one manifestation. We were open about wanting to perform at Coachella, and now it’s happening. Thank you, Lord,” she shared.
“We always say in interviews that Coachella is our dream, our goal. We just
Sophie McIntosh and Jeremias Amoore star in ‘No Way Up,’ where plane crash survivors face dwindling oxygen and a circling shark
and serial killer film,” while Courtney said he wanted to play Tucker as a man scarred by trauma.
No Way Up begins with a plane crash, stranding passengers inside a sinking jet in the Pacific. The group, including Ava (Sophie McIntosh ), Jed (Jeremias Amoore), Kyle (Will Attenborough), Rosa ( Grace Nettle), and her grandmother Mardy (Phyllis Logan), must fight for survival as oxygen dwindles and a shark circles the wreck.
Both films combine disaster-movie tension with shark-thriller suspense, offering audiences claustrophobic action and survival-at-sea drama.
Lionsgate Play, available in the Philippines for P79 monthly via PLDT Home and P199 quarterly via Smart, is also offered on Cignal Super, the country’s first streaming aggregator app, at P799 per month for its Premium+ plan or P499 per month for its Premium plan.
Sheena recalled how fellow member
“We crafted these fans for students, workers, and even athletes. It’s about making something useful for every Filipino,” he explained.
For Akari, the group’s global breakthrough is a source of national pride.
“We want the best for Filipinos, and BINI represents that. Congratulations to them sa Coachella, they truly deserve it,” Tan told Manila Standard Entertainment
With seven months before they step onto one of the world’s biggest stages, BINI is determined to make the moment count.
“We need to set aside time for Coachella to show who we are and what we’ve got,” Sheena stated.
‘Sparkle World Tour’ dazzles Canada with sold-out shows
THE Sparkle World Tour 2025 turned Canadian cities into festive arenas as Filipino stars Ai-Ai delas Alas, Ruru Madrid, Kyline Alcantara, and Pepita Curtis drew packed crowds of overseas fans in a string of sold-out shows.
LIONSGATE Play is bringing two shark thrillers to Philippine audiences this month, with Dangerous Animals and No Way Up joining its streaming lineup through partnerships with PLDT Home, Smart, and Cignal Super. Dangerous Animals follows Zephyr (Hassie Harrison ), a drifter trapped on a boat run by Tucker (Jai Courtney), a disturbed captain who secretly feeds tourists to sharks.
Captive and chained, Zephyr is forced into a gruesome game of survival while her friend Moses ( Josh Heuston ) searches for her. Director Sean Byrne described the film as “a fusion of shark film
From Toronto to Calgary, Filipino communities poured in to see the Sparkle lineup, a mix of music, comedy and heartfelt performances that left audiences on their feet.
The tour marked one of GMA Network’s biggest international outings, bringing a slice of home to Filipinos abroad.
Ibang klase yung saya at pagmamahal na binigay n’yo ,” Madrid told fans, describing the nights as a reminder of performing in the Philippines.
Alcantara showcased her powerhouse vocals, while delas Alas and Curtis lit up the stage with comedy that had fans roaring. Each stop underscored the close bond between Sparkle artists and their overseas supporters.
The Canadian leg closed on a high, with another round scheduled for November featuring Boobay , Pepita Curtis, and Divine Tetay
GMA
by
and partners
of
Backed
Sparkle
Artist Center
including Taste
Manila, SPARC, Fiesta Filipino, Philippine Airlines, PHirst Park Homes, and GMA Pinoy TV, the tour continues to put Filipino talent on the global stage.
Hassie Harrison leads ‘Dangerous Animals’as Zephyr, a drifter forced into a deadly game of survival by Jai Courtney’s disturbed captain
Ruru Madrid thrills overseas fans during the Sparkle World Tour 2025 in Canada
BINI is set to make history as the first Filipino pop group to perform at Coachella
LIFE & SHOWBIZ
Downton’s last waltz: Comfort in continuity
By Chong Ardivilla
ONE cannot deny that there is still potency behind the Downton Abbey series and film franchise. More than a decade after the television series ended, its longevity proves there is demand for a Downton universe.
Two films took the Crawleys and their servants on a royal visit and then a French sojourn, but the third— Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (2025, dir. Simon Curtis )— promises closure by bringing the upstairs-downstairs world to its final reckoning.
The series began with a global shock, the sinking of the Titanic, and this film closes in 1930, when the British Empire wanes and republics rise against colonial powers. Aristocracy no longer commands the same authority, and in Downton’s case, survival means adaptation.
Lady Mary Talbot ( Michelle Dockery , sharp as ever) faces divorce, a scandal that threatens her family’s standing in respectable society. The real-life echo— King Edward VIII abdicating six years later to marry Wallis Simpson—haunts the
narrative. Pushed out of London’s season, the Crawleys return to their estate to recalibrate. Matters worsen when Lady Cora Crawley’s inheritance is squandered by her hapless brother, played with sly excess by Paul Giamatti . As ever, the crux of Downton remains: the fear of losing one’s place in an ever-shifting world.
Change at Downton has always been incremental, never radical. This is the show’s governing logic: adjustments in small, palatable doses, enough to suggest modernity but never enough to topple hierarchies.
The true protagonist remains the castle itself, that sprawling monument to palatial
conceit. Every character—aristocrat, servant, or tenant—exists in relation to its grandeur. Even Tom Branson (Allen Leech ), once the fiery socialist chauffeur, has mellowed into a self-proclaimed pragmatist and dutiful capitalist. It is a neat trick of co-optation: the revolutionary becomes the estate’s steward.
For the elite, “struggle” means financial humiliation, diminished status, or the loss of London invitations. For the servants, struggle means fragility and disposability: a pregnancy that may end a career, the looming threat of replacement, or retirement with little dignity.
These stories are whispered and glossed over, briefly acknowledged before the camera returns upstairs. The servants do gain token visibility in their village council roles, framed as the community’s bridge to modernity, but even here, their function is to shore up Lady Mary’s social legitimacy. Once more, the bottom props up the top, and the top declares itself reformed.
JIMMY Kimmel’s late-night show was pulled from the air Wednesday hours after the US government threatened to cancel broadcasting licenses because of comments the host made about the killing of conservative influencer
Charlie Kirk
The stunning move by network ABC to remove one of America’s most influential late-night shows was blasted by critics as government censorship but celebrated by Donald Trump, who has long chaffed at the comedians who mock him.
“Great News for America,” he wrote on his Truth Social page. “Congratulations to ABC for finally having the courage to do what had to be done.”
Trump, who also rejoiced in July at the cancellation of Kimmel’s fellow late-night satirist Stephen Colbert , then urged that two other comedians be removed.
“That leaves Jimmy (Fallon) and Seth (Meyers ), two total losers, on Fake News NBC. Their ratings are also horrible. Do it NBC!!!
In Hollywood, where Kimmel’s show is recorded, audience members were turned away at the door before taping began Wednesday.
Tommy Williams, a longshoreman from Florida, told AFP the move felt un-American.
“Any show that’s on TV that speaks out against Donald Trump, he’s trying to shut down,” the 51-year-old said. “We’re losing our freedom of speech. This is something that happens in Russia and North Korea and China, state-run TVs stuff.”
The furor comes a week after Kirk, a close Trump ally, was shot dead on a Utah university campus, setting off a bitter battle over responsibility in deeply polarized America, with conservatives -- including Trump -blaming “the radical left.”
Authorities this week said 22-yearold Tyler Robinson gunman, and brought a murder charge against him.
On Monday, Kimmel spoke about the shooting in his show-opening monologue.
“The MAGA gang (is) desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and (doing) everything they can to score political
And yet, across its fifteen years of narratives, Downton Abbey insists on one truth: direct action effects change. But in this universe, action is always disguised as preservation. That paradox—the illusion of progress that ensures continuity—is Downton’s true legacy. Fans will find comfort in that constancy, but beneath the lush trappings is the reminder that aristocratic survival depends on everyone else mistaking endurance for evolution.
You may reach Chong Ardivilla at kartunistatonto@gmail.com or chonggo.bsky.social
points from it,” said Kimmel, referring to the president’s “Make America Great Again” movement.
He then showed footage of Trump pivoting from a question about how he had been affected by Kirk’s death to boasting about the new ballroom he is building at the White House, prompting laughter from the
“This is not how an adult grieves the murder of somebody called a friend. This is how a four-yearold mourns a goldfish,”
On Wednesday, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Brendan Carr openly threatened the license of ABC
MCDONALD’S is bringing a touch of fantasy to its menu with the launch of Sang’greinspired McFloat flavors, now available nationwide for a limited time.
The new Sang’gre Meal and McFloats are part of the fast-food giant’s collaboration with GMA Network, celebrating both its “Much Malaki, Much Juicier and Much Crispier Chicken McDo” and the success of Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre , the highly anticipated continuation of the long-running television fantasy.
Fans can say “Avisala” to four McFloat flavors inspired by the Sang’gres—Flamarra, Deia, Adamus, and Terra. Each drink captures the essence of the characters: Deia’s sweet charm, Flamarra’s fruity tang, Adamus’ refreshing coolness, and Terra’s citrus twist. Each McFloat is topped with McDonald’s vanilla soft serve.
The Sang’gre McFloats are also offered in special Sang’gre Meals, which include a 1-pc. Chicken McDo and a random limited-edition Sang’gre photocard for fans and collectors.
“This exciting collaboration with GMA Network is part of our commitment to celebrate Filipino pop culture and create feel-good moments for our customers,” McDonald’s Philippines chief marketing officer Ada Lazaro said.
The Sang’gre McFloats and Sang’gre Meal are available for Dine-In, Drive-Thru, TakeOut, and McDelivery.
affiliates who broadcast Kimmel’s show.
“I think it’s past time these (affiliates) themselves push back... and say, ‘Listen, we’re not going to run Kimmel anymore until you straighten this out because we’re running the possibility of license revocation from the FCC,’” he told right-wing podcaster Benny Johnson
“We can do this the easy way or the hard way. These companies can find ways to change conduct and take action, frankly, on Kimmel or there’s going to be additional work for the FCC ahead.”
Hours later, Nexstar, one of the country’s biggest owners of ABC affiliate stations, announced it would be removing the show from its stations.
Nexstar is in the middle of a multi-billion dollar merger with a rival that will require FCC approval.
ABC–which is owned by Disney–then followed suit, pulling the show nationwide. Kimmel did not immediately comment, and representatives for the entertainer did not respond to AFP queries. AFP
Actress Faith da Silva of ‘Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre’ poses with a limited-edition Mcfloat inspired by their hit GMA series
The ensemble cast of ‘Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale’
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,
Writer
Writer
JASPER VALDEZ,
By Nickie Wang
WHAT happens when the country’s first Filipino domestic insurance company and a pioneering digital entertainment company join forces?
They launch the country’s first surety bond program for online gaming players. DigiPlus Interactive Corp., operator of BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, said Wednesday it has partnered with Philippine First Insurance Co. Inc. (PhilFirst) to roll out the program, which took effect immediately.
The bond safeguards eligible player balances of up to P1 million each without requiring customers to buy a separate policy. To qualify, players must be verified through electronic Know-Your-Customer checks, have made at least one successful deposit, and remain in
Rgood standing with platform rules.
“DigiPlus is proud to be the first in the industry to roll out this level of consumer protection,” DigiPlus chairman Eusebio H. Tanco said.
HIAN Ramos, one of GMA’s trusted actresses and currently a star in Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre, has taken a delicious turn. Her transformation from an accidental baker to a successful business owner is an example of how passion and a little faith can turn a simple hobby into a thriving and profitable project.
Her latest success story revolves around her signature cookies, now available at Luxxe White Cafe, a new spot at the Frontrow International headquarters on Quezon Avenue in Quezon City. This collaboration, under the ownership of RS Francisco and Sam Verzosa, who happens to be Rhian’s boyfriend, is clear evidence of her expanding reach.
Rhian’s baking journey was born from a casual, personal act. “Well, I’ve been baking these for years. Right when the pandemic started, that’s when I started making these,” she shared.
What
Her inspiration was emotional comfort. There was a cookie brand she enjoyed in New York that helped her cope with homesickness. Though she couldn’t replicate it exactly, Rhian crafted a version of how she wanted her cookies to be – crunchy on the edges, gooey inside, and with a salty top What started as a private comfort food quickly turned into something more. “Some of my friends and family members would start ordering it from me because, of course, during Christmas get-togethers, I’d bring it out,” Rhian recalled.
The photos, showing her baking in a bikini during the height of the pandemic, unexpectedly catapulted her into viral fame. That moment sparked her baking adventure.
From there, Rhian’s cookie business grew organically. “So, I was baking for my friends, the photos went viral, and then people outside of my friend group started ordering,” she revealed.
One of her first loyal customers was none other than celebrity beauty doctor and entrepreneur Dr. Vicki Belo, a fellow baking enthusiast and owner of Scarlet’s Sweets.
“She would always buy multiple dozens,” Rhian said fondly, sharing how her customer base grew from genuine word-of-mouth.
Turning passion into business
Rhian’s cookies have gained considerable popularity, warranting her partnership with several cafes across Metro Manila, including Incanta, The Vibe, Deer Claus, and now Luxxe White Cafe.
Currently experimenting with new flavors, Rhian is including a quirky “cheese-corn” variant, which she describes as “weirdsounding for some people, but to me, they make sense.” Her focus remains on her classic chocolate chip cookies for now. “That’s why it’s called Bās Bakes because I love basics. So, I really try to go for the most classic version of something before anything else.”
Baking with a purpose
“Thank goodness, not anymore!” Rhian smilingly reported when asked if she still bakes everything herself. Due to the demand for her cookies, she now has a team behind her. Rhian emphasized that she still believes in the magic of freshly baked cookies. She suggests that people try her frozen dough for that authentic homemade experience. Her cookies are nut-free, a detail she takes pride in, ensuring that even
“With this surety bond, they can play confidently on BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, knowing that their funds are safeguarded.”
Peace of mind while you play Online gamers get added protection with new surety bond program
The measure adds to DigiPlus’ customer service features, which include 24/7 support and more than 130 BingoPlus physical outlets nationwide that already serve as trusted stores for players.
PhilFirst, founded in 1906, is the country’s first domestic insurance company. It offers nonlife insurance coverage for homes, motor vehicles, travel, liability, marine, engineering, and bonds. The company said the partnership reflects its mission to evolve with the market while providing financial protection.
“At PhilFirst, we’re proud to
those with allergies can indulge. It took her time to find the right recipe.
“I really went crazy at the time,” Rhian admitted, describing the months spent perfecting her recipe through countless trials, mixing different flours and testing various chocolate brands until she found the ideal combination.
Rhian’s journey wasn’t planned. Her viral photos—initially just playful gimmicks— unintentionally set her on this path. “It was just like we were doing a girls’ trip. We got an Airbnb, so we knew there was a kitchen, an oven,” she recounted. Then it rained. We baked.
“That’s how it all started. The rest is history,” Rhian continued. She believes that doing what you love with genuine intent, coupled with a little faith, leads to amazing results.
Juggling her acting career and her growing cookie business isn’t always easy for Rhian. “It’s hard,” she admitted. “Sometimes, I don’t succeed in balancing it.” Her perfectionist nature makes her hesitant to push out subpar work, but she’s learned to accept that she should “make it exist first, make it perfect later.”
bring our 119 years of insurance expertise into the digital entertainment space through this groundbreaking partnership with DigiPlus,” the insurer said in a statement. “This surety bond is more than a product—it’s proof that PhilFirst is ready to safeguard customers wherever innovation takes them.”
DigiPlus, which pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines, said the partnership underscores its goal of raising industry standards by pairing engaging gaming with stronger guarantees of security and trust.
WITH mobile connection rates in the Philippines now at over 122 percent—approximately 142 million active cellular connections as of early 2025—Filipinos are more reliant than ever on their phones to access the internet.
Smart Communications said this week it is expanding its prepaid offerings with Magic Data, a service that allows users to buy data with no expiration, giving them the freedom to go online at their own pace. The service, available through the Smart app or Smart Online Store, lets subscribers purchase data in bulk and use it anytime, whether for work, streaming, gaming, school, or online
Mistakes, like forgetting to promote, are part of her learning curve—an essential lesson in entrepreneurship. Her mother’s influence is evident in her value for hard work. “It’s from my mom. So, my mom has taught me and my sister to depend on ourselves. We’re like an all-girl family. It’s a lot of femininity. She’s always taught us to be thrifty, to depend on ourselves, and make sure that we’re really independent,” Rhian shared, highlighting the values behind her success.
Faced with a successful bump into entrepreneurship, Rhian offers some practical advice for aspiring home bakers and budding entrepreneurs. She confidently advised and reiterated, “Again, make it exist first and then make it perfect later because sometimes experience, really, is the best teacher.” She continued, “And then second, I think in any business, you’re only as good as your marketing. And sometimes, marketing even goes further than how great the product is. Not to say that this isn’t a great product, ‘cause it is, but marketing really, really goes a long way.”
Bās Bakes’ unexpected popularity was a recurring theme in our conversation. “You really can’t plan these things. It’s a God move,” she ended our interview with a smile. Today, Rhian’s life as an accidental baker living the “sweet” dream shows a perfect mix of passion, serendipity, and perseverance. Her journey teaches us that opportunities come from spontaneous acts of kindness and fun. Whether she’s on set or baking in her kitchen, Rhian also reminds us that sometimes, the best recipes are the ones you never planned to make.
For your random thoughts, e-mail the author at randomrepublika@ gmail.com.
From left: AB Leisure Exponent, Inc. president Jasper Vicencio, DigiPlus Interactive Corp. chairman Eusebio Tanco, and PhilFirst chief operations officer Ana Evasco
Rhian’s signature cookies are now available at Luxxe White Cafe, owned by RS Francisco and Sam Verzosa
