Filipinos cry out against corruption
Rallies held across Metro, several provinces
A GROUP of masked, mostly blackclad, men clashed twice yesterday with police anti-disturbance units guarding the roads leading to the presidential palace. Police said a relatively small
By Rex Espiritu
THE “Trillion Peso March” at the Edsa People Power Monument on September 21, 2025 ended up as not only a call for accountability and action against corruption, but also a living display of the Filipino bayanihan spirit.
Thousands of participants—from church groups, students, workers, and civic organizations—gathered peacefully under the afternoon sun and rain, bringing food, water, and medical supplies not just for themselves but also for strangers standing beside them.
‘Nando’
5:00 p.m.
super typhoon was tracked at 450 kilometers East of Aparri, Cagayan by early Sunday evening. It was moving west northwestward at 15 kilometers per
By Ram Superable
By Vince Lopez and Charles Dantes
By Joel Zurbano, Rex Espiritu, Ram Superable, Charles Dantes, and Vito Barcelo
Edd Castro, Norman Cruz, Revoli Cortez, Andrew Rabulan Jhun Dantes, MMDA Facebook, and AFP
More than 50,000 demonstrated at the EDSA People Power Monument, organizers said. Manila City Hall monitors said about 45,000 converged at the capital’s Rizal Park, with protesters carrying placards and banners that shared a common theme: end the misery brought about by rampant corruption in government.
Their demands included the removal from office and imprisonment of all those involved in anomalous flood control projects and other acts of corruption, from the Duterte to the Marcos administrations. (See complete list of demands on A2).
The Department of Finance has estimated that the Philippine economy lost up to P118.5 billion from 2023 to 2025 due to corruption in flood control projects.
Earlier this month, the owners of a construction firm accused nearly 30 House members and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials of taking cash payments. Also present at the rallies were politicians and celebrities, who expressed rage over massive corruption.
House Deputy Majority Leader Risa Hontiveros, along with fellow Kiko Pangilinan and Bam Aquino, joined House Deputy Minority Leader Leila de Lima, Akbayan party-lists Chel Diokno, Perci Cendaña, Dadah Kiram Ismulah, and Dinagat Islands Rep. Kaka Bag-ao at the EDSA People Power Monument.
They marched in solidarity with other reform-oriented organizations, including the Simbahan at Komunidad laban sa Katiwalian (SIKLAB), Akbayan Party, Tindig Pilipinas, Mamamayang Liberal party-list, Nagkaisa Labor Coalition, Kalipunan, and Youth Against Kurakot (YAK).
“Irresponsibility must not become a culture. Just as we ended Martial Law, we must once and for all put an end to corruption, violence, and the violation
List of demands by Sept. 21 protest organizers:
• Return the stolen public funds. Seize the luxury cars, expensive watches, signature bags, and designer clothes of corrupt contractors, officials, and politicians. Allocate the recovered wealth to health, education, housing, and compensation for flood victims.
• Release the list and ban contractors and suppliers involved in corruption and connected to lawmakers and government officials. Upload all bidding documents and government contracts online, including the prices of materials and services, so that the people can scrutinize and audit these documents.
Tuesday morning to address what he described as “new developments” and to summon former DPWH officials to explain their involvement. Hernandez was allowed to leave the Senate over the weekend to gather documents, a computer, and other materials that could support his accusations of bribery and kickbacks involving public works contracts.
Several groups also distributed free raincoats to mobilization participants marching from Edsa Shrine to the People Power Monument.
Volunteers set up makeshift first-aid stations and community kitchens along Edsa. Young people distributed free snacks and bottled water, while motorists slowed down to donate goods to the crowd and blew their horns in solidarity with the protesters.
Some homeowners near the protest site opened their gates to provide access to restrooms and shelter from the heat and rain.
“I don’t know many people here, but they feel like family. If someone is thirsty, someone is handing water. If someone feels tired, somebody will assist,” said 62-year-old protester Marilou Santos, recalling the spirit of the 1986 People Power Revolution.
Students also played a major role in the atmosphere of solidarity. Members of different universities helped manage the crowd and protected senior citizens from being jostled.
Performances and prayers were punctuated by reminders to look after one another, emphasizing unity as the central message of the gathering.
The demonstrations were held on the anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law during the first Marcos administration in September 1972.
• Abolish all pork barrel funds as well as secret, confidential, and intelligence funds.
• Open to the public the Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) of all government officials and require them to sign a bank secrecy waiver so that their bank accounts and properties can be examined.
• Abolish the “small group” in Congress (that usually meets to include “insertions” in the national budget behind the scenes) and open to the public the complete records of budget hearings and bicameral conference committee proceedings, and
• End the reign of political dynasties and the corrupt system of government.
band of provocateurs threw stones at police and set fire to a trailer truck barricading a street in the vicinity of Malacañang Palace.
Police said they arrested 17 from a group of around 300 individuals who marched towards the Mendiola bridge in Manila.
Those arrested are now under the custody of the Manila Police District (MPD), awaiting formal charges, the PNP said in a statement.
“We respect the public’s right to
of our dignity and human rights,” De Lima said in a statement.
Rallies in support of those being held in the nation’s capital were also held in Baguio and Bacolod cities, while a proDuterte rally was held in Davao City, where organizers reportedly roasted 100 heads of cattle for attendees.
In Makati City, film and television stars such as Dingdong Dantes, Kim Atienza, Benjamin Alves, Jerald Napoles, and Kim Molina engaged in an anti-corruption running event.
Meanwhile, actress Maris Racal marched with the Philippine-Palestine Friendship Association in Rizal Park, asserting that “all corrupt individuals must be held accountable.” Also at the Luneta were Andrea Brillantes, Jodi Sta. Maria and Angel Aquino.
Television host Vice Ganda, former Ms. Universe Catriona Gray, and pop star Anne Curtis, were also present at the EDSA rally.
The day began with a peaceful morning protest in the capital’s Luneta Park that drew nearly 50,000 people, according to city estimates.
At EDSA, over 3,000 individuals turned up early on,which culminated
with tens of thousands more pouring in to join the “Trillion Peso March” upto late afternoon.
Marring what could have been a peaceful day of protests, groups of masked men threw rocks and bottles at police in two separate incidents, setting fire to the tires of a trailer used as a barricade near a bridge leading to the presidential palace.
Police advancing behind a wall of shields arrested 17 mostly young people in the first encounter, local authorities said.
Barely an hour later, a second clash saw police use water cannons on another group of masked protesters.
The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) condemned the violence, in which several people were injured, including broadcast journalist Manny Vargas. Vargas was reportedly struck by a projectile while covering the event.
PTFOMS Executive Director Jose Torres Jr. underscored that journalist safety is “non-negotiable” and called for stronger safety protocols.
“We will continue to advocate for measures that safeguard those who risk
their lives to keep the nation informed,” he said.
Earlier, Presidential Communication Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said, “freedom of expression will not be curtailed.”
“The only request of the President [Marcos] is not to violate the law,” she added in a televised interview.
Castro also addressed calls from some groups seeking to hold Mr. Marcos accountable for anomalies, noting that critics overlook the fact that the President himself ordered an investigation into questionable flood control projects.
“What accountability do they want from him? He initiated the probe. Let’s focus on those truly liable, not evade responsibility,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said that the fight against corruption will persist beyond the rally.
“The fight against corruption will not end after the rally but will continue until all people involved in ‘large-scale corruption’ in flood-control projects are punished and jailed,” the prelates said in a statement. With AFP
peaceful assembly, but we strongly appeal to everyone to remain calm and refrain from violence,” it added.
“Rest assured, those responsible for these acts will be held accountable under the law,” it added.
The PNP also pointed out that the suspects’ actions endangered those who wished to protest peacefully. Nonetheless, the national police said its personnel remain committed to safeguarding both the public and demonstrators.
For his part, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said President Marcos has ordered authorities to ensure that rallies remain peaceful, directing police to
exercise “maximum tolerance” while vowing swift action against those who cause disorder.
“We will protect the citizens’ right to peaceably assemble to redress their grievances, but we will not tolerate instability and violence,” Remulla said.
“Those who seek only to create chaos will be held accountable,” the Secretary stated.
The PNP earlier placed its forces on heightened alert ahead of demonstrations near the Malacañang complex.
An administration spokesperson said the government’s approach aims to balance democratic freedoms with public safety.
Meanwhile, police presence reportedly diffused simmering tensions between a group of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s supporters and a larger group of progressives. Reporters on the scene said a heated exchange of words erupted, with the Duterte Diehard Supporters (DDS) calling those across the picket line “communists,” while the opposite group questioned their presence in an anti-corruption rally.
As of 8 p.m., protesters representing several organizations remained in the vicinity of the EDSA Shrine, but tensions between groups had abated, police said.
The sacked DPWH engineer previously alleged that some of the funds were funneled to Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Joel Villanueva, and former Caloocan City Rep. Mitch Cajayon-Uy, all of whom have denied the claims.
Lacson said any evidence of illicit commissions would be referred immediately to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) for prosecution, noting that the Senate inquiry and the commission’s investigation are complementary.
“Right away, even if our hearing is not yet finished and there is still no committee report, I will send that portion identifying those implicated and backed by evidence to the ICI to speed up their investigation,” he assured. Among those expected to be invited to testify in the next Senate Blue Ribbon hearing are former DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan and retired Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, who Lacson said must clarify their roles in questionable projects.
Lacson noted that Bernardo appeared in a photo with Hernandez and other engineers allegedly involved in substandard and fictitious projects in Bulacan, a group informally referred to as the “BGC Boys.”
Bonoan, meanwhile, was asked to account for over P600 million in alleged cash deliveries from a private contractor to a district engineering office earlier this year.
Lacson also said he and Senate President Vicente Sotto III will meet with Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla to discuss possible admission of witnesses into the government’s protection program.
Hernandez and contractor couple Cezarah and Pacifico Discaya II were among those identified as seeking protection, though Lacson said only Hernandez had shown willingness to cooperate. He criticized Pacifico Discaya II for refusing to testify despite being granted legislative immunity, contrasting his stance with contractor Sally Santos, who has disclosed details of cash deliveries.
hour (kph) packing winds at 185 kph and gusts of up to 230 kph. PAGASA advised that the highest wind signal that may be hoisted throughout the passage of ‘Nando’ is Signal No. 5. It noted that the southwest monsoon and the trough of the super typhoon will be responsible for strong to gale-force winds that may take place in coastal and upland areas. Other areas placed under wind signals include the following:
SIGNAL NO. 2
• The rest of Batanes, the rest of mainland Cagayan, the northern and eastern portions of Isabela (San Mariano, Ilagan City, Tumauini, Cabagan, Palanan, Divilacan, Maconacon, San Pablo, Santa Maria, Santo Tomas, Delfin Albano, Quezon, Quirino, Mallig, Roxas, Gamu), Apayao, Abra, Kalinga, the eastern portion of Mountain Province (Paracelis), Ilocos Norte, and the northern portion of Ilocos Sur (Cabugao, Sinait, San Juan, Magsingal, Santo Domingo, Bantay, San Ildefonso, San Vicente, Santa Catalina, City of Vigan, Caoayan, Santa, Nagbukel, Narvacan, Santa Maria)
SIGNAL NO. 1
• The rest of Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, the rest of Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet, the rest of Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, the northern and central portions of Zambales ( Santa Cruz, Candelaria, Masinloc, Iba, Palauig, Cabangan, Botolan), Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Aurora, the northern portion of Pampanga ( Mabalacat City, Magalang, Arayat, Candaba, Angeles City, Porac, Mexico, Santa Ana, San Luis, City of San Fernando, Bacolor), the northern portion of Bulacan ( Doña Remedios Trinidad, San Ildefonso, San Miguel, San Rafael), and the northern portion of Quezon ( General Nakar) including Polillo Islands.
Tropical cyclone Nando and Southwest Monsoon as of 5 p.m., 21 Sept. 2025
1Sambayan raises alarm on political interference
By Rio N. Araja
1SAMBAYAN, a political coalition founded by former Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, on Sunday expressed alarm over political interference in the Judicial and Bar Council’s (JBC) selection of the next Ombudsman.
The group cited the
ing “the timing and nature of these cases against
VP says another country is willing
to take Duterte
By Katrina Manubay
VICE President Sara Duterte confirmed that another country is willing to take former president Rodrigo Duterte following the defense request for interim release. Speaking in Tokyo, Japan, on September 20, Duterte said she sought help from contacts abroad, citing the lack of people she could rely on in the Philippines. “Because of your prayers, good news is happening. A country said, ‘Okay, you can bring him here.’ And I can tell you, it’s not Japan. That’s all I can say,” she remarked.
On September 13, an ICC prosecutor cited the vice president’s controversial remarks—such as her suggestions of “kidnapping” or “jailbreak” regarding her father’s case—as reasons to deny Duterte’s renewed request for interim release. Three days later, Duterte’s legal team submitted
a new “Defense Notification” to the ICC’s Pre-Trial Chamber, proposing further conditions.
Her lawyer Nicolas Kaufman claimed that Duterte cannot recall events, places, timings, or even family members.
In response, the ICC postponed its September 23 hearing, citing the camp’s claim that the former president is “not fit to stand trial.”
The vice president insisted her father is not a flight risk and would remain in Davao. “In fact, they should give President Duterte to me. This way, I can ensure he attends and cooperates with the case because it is difficult to engage him while he is in jail,” she said.
Duterte added that her father has always said he wants to return to Davao and die in the Philippines. “So, we know where to find him. He won’t go abroad. He will go to Davao, and he will be buried in Davao,” she stressed.
intended to unduly influence the JBC’s deliberations and potentially disqualify a prospective nominee based on political considerations rather than merit.”
Saying such tactics could undermine the autonomy of the JBC, 1SAMBAYAN emphasized that “allowing politically motivated legal challenges to influence this process would be a disservice to the Constitution and the Filipino people.”
It urged the JBC to uphold its duty to evaluate candidates based solely on merit, experience, and ethical standing.
“The integrity of the Ombudsman selection process and the credibility of the JBC itself are at stake. The JBC must send a clear message that it will not be swayed by politically motivated tactics and will prioritize the selection of the most qualified and impartial candidate for Ombudsman,” the group stressed.
By Vito Barcelo
DEPARTMENT of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon said more public works officials will be dismissed in the coming days following the discovery of over 100 flood control project anomalies and the filing of new cases against those involved.
Dizon made the announcement after he accepted the courtesy resignation of Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral, who was implicated in anomalous projects, saying more ranking officials will be replaced to “clean up” the department and restore public trust.
The Public Works chief confirmed he accepted Cabral’s resignation on September 16, 2025, after she submitted it last week.
He is also set to accept courtesy resignations from other top-ranking DPWH officials, from undersecretaries down to division heads.
Four other DPWH undersecretaries allegedly linked to the irregularities—Eugenio Pipo, Roberto Bernardo, Carlos Mutuc, and Anne Sharlyne Lapuz— are also under investigation.
Dizon stressed that Cabral’s resignation does not absolve her of accountability for the anomalies during her tenure.
The DPWH has filed graft complaints against 20 officials and four contractors tied to irregular projects in Bulacan.
“We have just begun. Those liable from top to bottom will be made accountable,” Dizon said, adding that assets will be frozen, non-bailable cases pursued, and private individuals colluding with government officials also held liable.
YOUNG CHEF. A child in Brgy. Olympia, Makati City joins a cooking contest sponsored by the city government, which provides all the ingredients. His mother is standing by to give instructions. Diana B. Noche
recent legal complaints against Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, say-
Secretary Remulla raise serious concerns that they are
Solon seeks probe on P51-b flood projects in Davao
By Rio N. Araja
A PARTY-LIST legislator on Sunday called for investigations into probable anomalous projects in Mindanao.
“All infrastructure projects should be investigated not only in Luzon but also in Mindanao,” Akbayan party-list Rep. Dadah Kiram Ismulah stressed.
“This is important, especially with reports that the Dutertes bagged a whopping P51 billion for infrastructure projects in a single district alone in Davao City,” she added.
Resigned Department of Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral earlier told the House Committee on Infrastructure that Davao City’s first district, under Rep. Paolo Duterte had received P51 billion in infrastructure funds over three years of the administration of his father, ex-President Rodrigo Duterte. The funds were reflected in the General Appropriations Act for 2020, 2021 and 2022, Ismulah said.
The lady lawmaker underscored the need to conduct a probe on the infrastructure projects under the Duterte administration.
“The people’s anger is about to get into its extreme. The people’s anger is nearing boiling point. This is a warning and a promise to the Dutertes, especially impeached Vice President Sara Duterte, that their legacy of corruption, on top of their legacy of killings, will face its day of reckoning. Digong is already in prison. They will follow,” Akbayan Rep. Percival Cendaña said.
Cendaña said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will not be spared from public scrutiny.
“This is also a strong reminder to the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that if he fails to hold everyone accountable for this scandal, including his closest allies, then he should not be surprised if the people’s full anger shifts towards against him,” he said.
Zambales solon denies owning P2.4-m Rolex
ZAMBALES Rep. Jay Khonghun on Sunday dismissed insinuations of opulence against him based on a watch he was wearing that went viral on social media.
Khonghun clarified that the wrist watch was merely a modified Seiko— not a P2.4-million Rolex as alleged by his detractors.
“If they had just asked, I would have shown the watch itself. It’s just a Seiko that I like to wear,” he stressed, adding that the allegations formed part of a smear campaign against him.
He adverted to a social media post showing him with a black-and-gold watch that was “mistakenly called a luxury Rolex.”
The post became viral and drew harsh criticism by netizens.
The watch was later identified as a Seiko Daytona black gold “mod,” short for modification — the process of customizing a watch by replacing or adding parts to change its design or function.
Lifestyle checks on public officials have intensified after President Marcos exposed ghost flood control projects, noting that some contractors involved were seen wearing high-end watches during interviews.
Khonghun asserted that his mandate as a lawmaker was just to file bills.
“My job is to file the bill for the project, not to implement it. Implementation is the responsibility of the executive branch, particularly the Department of Public Works and Highways,” he explained. Rio N. Araja
Marcos puts NCSC under DSWD to enhance services for elderlies
PRESIDENT
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued an order placing the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) with a view to strengthening government policies and programs for the elderlies.
Executive Order (EO) 96, signed by the President on Sept. 18 mandates the DSWD to implement the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens (SPISC) program through the NCSC to ensure success.
“Pursuant to the Administration’s eight-point socioeconomic agenda, which includes improving bureaucratic efficiency, a strong organizational link between the NCSC and DSWD must be established to further strengthen policies and programs for senior citizens, with the goal of enhancing delivery of social services and promoting the overall well-being and protection of the elderly,” the directive stated.
The NCSC was created through Republic Act (RA) 11350 in 2019 to
ensure full implementation of laws, policies, and programs for the promotion and protection of the rights and well-being of senior citizens.
Under this statute, all DSWD functions, programs, projects, and activities for the poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged senior citizens shall be transferred to the NCSC, which was then attached to the Office of the President.
On the other hand, the SPISC was established through RA 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 to provide monetary grant to eligible senior citizens to support their daily subsistence and medical needs.
RA 11916, enacted in 2022, increased the monthly social pension of impoverished senior citizens from P500 to P1,000.
Cagayan’s
4Ps surpasses 1.5k household-clients milestone
By Jessica M. Bacud
ALICIA, Isabela—The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) has reached 1,500 households graduating in Cagayan Valley, highlighted by the graduation from college of 10 scholars in ceremonies held here on Sept.16.
The event, dubbed “Pamaddayaw na Paggradua na Pantawid Pamilya,” marked the exit of the 4Ps beneficiaries from the government’s subsidy program.
In his remarks, Alicia Mayor Joel Amos Alejandro cited the local government unit’s commitment to supporting the 4Ps beneficiaries, emphasizing that their graduation signalled “not only an achievement, but also a new chapter in their journey towards self-sufficiency.”
Alejandro urged the graduates to utilize the skills and knowledge they have gained
to uplift their families and communities, and assured them of the local government’s continued support for their endeavors.
The mayor also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the local government and national agencies in achieving meaningful development outcomes. He expressed optimism that the success of the 4Ps program will inspire more families to strive for a better future.
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) director Gemma Gabuya lauded the graduates’ determination and resilience, emphasizing that their success is a testament to the program’s effectiveness in empowering families and promoting self-sufficiency.
Gabuya thanked to the Alicia local government for its “unwavering support and sponsorship, which has been instrumental in the program’s success.”
IN BRIEF
Peace Institute (PPI) as the country’s premier hub for peace research and education. The facility was designed to strengthen conflict management, promote peace building, and support the national peace process through research, training, and partnerships with academic institutions, government, and civil society.
PPI introduced its first two modules: one on the concepts of peace and conflict, and another on the Philippine Comprehensive Peace Process, including peace agreements with rebel groups such as the Moro National Liberation Front, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and the like the MNLF, MILF, and the Cordillera People’s Liberation Army. These courses mark the start of a long-term, institutionalized approach to peace education. Rex Espiritu
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has intercepted 36 victims of illegal recruitment and arrested four suspected in separate operations in Palawan and Tawi-Tawi, commonly known as backdoor channels for illicit exits out of the country.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said 14 of the victims were rescued of 14 in Rizal, Palawan while 22 others were intercepted in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. The victims narrated that their recruiters instructed them to avoid airports, and use instead the backdoor sea routes to exit the country.
“We congratulate our partners in the local police and LGUs (local government units) for their vigilance and quick response. The rescue of 14 in Palawan and 22 in Tawi-Tawi shows how decisive action at the community level serves as the first line of defense against human trafficking,” Viado said. Vito Barcelo
THE National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) has pledged support for nationwide calls demanding integrity, transparency, and accountability in government. In a statement, the task force said it “stands united with all Filipinos” in pushing for a corruption-free nation, adding that anti-corruption mobilizations held on Sunday (Sept. 21) were “legitimate expressions of the people’s aspirations.”
“Addressing corruption is fundamental to our whole-of-nation approach in fostering inclusive peace and development,” the NTFELCAC said.
National Security Adviser and NTF-ELCAC vice chairperson Eduardo Año urged all sectors—including government agencies, local government units, civil society, and ordinary citizens—to work together in strengthening democratic institutions. Rex Espiritu
Dato’ (Dr.) Johari Bin Abdul
4PS GRADUATION.
officials of Cagayan Valley celebrate the exit of 1,500 families from the goverenment’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program in a ceremony at the municipality of Alicia. Jessica M. Bacud
OPINION
The dying of the light
AS THE big day unfolds, we write this article hours before the start of the Luneta rally. I accepted an invitation to take part in the coverage of yesterday’s rallies at the Bilyonaryo News Channel, so I had to file this column earlier than our deadline.
Government has tried to assuage the anger of the people by a series of actions: the creation of an ICI focused on the deadly and ghastly flood control projects which are today’s latest symbol of corruption; the resignation of the Speaker of the HoR which the president reluctantly decided just the weekend before, including casting his one vote on the replacement; even the belated return of the 60 billion purloined from PhilHealth by the greedy legislators to fund their unprogrammed allocations. That return of what was looted from PhilHealth was suggested as early as the week after former President Duterte was shanghaied from the airport and flown to Den Haag. It was intended to help quiet the resentment of the masses for what was seen as an unlawful and unjust “kidnap.”
The resignation of the Speaker was a painful decision. Some of the president’s close allies suggested this as early as after the administration’s debacle in the midterm elections, but the president could not get himself to act.
First there was the question of who could/should replace his first cousin; second and foremost, given the close blood ties, letting go was personally difficult for our conflict-averse president.
The creation of an independent commission was impelled by first, the public doubt on whether legislative inquiries could truly uncover the truth, or would be minded to, especially with the conduct of the HoR’s “tricom/infracom,” chaired as it is by a non-Bicolano today of the most powerful Bicolano ever, the “genius” behind the mangling of the most corrupt budget in our history.
Second, it drew from previous templates: the Agrava Commission, the Davide Commission, the Feliciano Commission, all attempts which concluded nothing substantial.
It is good to note that the president chose three whose professional reputations were welcomed and, more so, naming an advocate against corruption its chief investigator. The public awaits the results, but the anger has not been stilled.
The big day commemorates one of the dreadful chapters of our political history, the 53rd anniversary of the proclamation of martial law, which while instilling fear and immediate discipline, metamorphosed through the years as nothing else but one-man rule and more corruption.
We thought the exile of the dictator to Hawaii and the installation of Ninoy’s widow to popular leadership would bring
about genuine change, a departure from the corrupted governance of martial rule, but we were disappointed.
A reactive Constitution was hastily promulgated which laid the framework for the kind of “checks and balances” which the trapos we brought back to power and the new oligarchs saw as opportunity to lord it over us, the former greedy for more corrupt spoils, the latter feeding the trough while profiting from regulatory capture.
Leader after leader entrusted with great power failed us successively despite elections later marred by vote-buying, fraud and manipulation.
From EDSA One we gambled on EDSA Two, only to result in more of the same.
Yesterday, the multitudes came to show their rage over the dying of the light
Disenchanted by nine years of graft where both legislature and military were bribed with pork and perks, we elected the scion of the sainted widow, who, while personally clean, was unable to clean the Augean stables of corruption in government.
So we opted for a mayor from Southern Philippines, the first in our history of one who did not come from the legislature (editor’s note: the man was congressman of the first district of Davao from 1998 t0 2001), who was known for his mailed fists against crime and drugs, but two years of a worldwide pandemic crippled his programs, while a few corrupt individuals took advantage.
Plus ca change, plus ca reste la meme chose.
So we brought back someone from the promised “golden years” when life was comparably better, a hark from the troubled past while forgetting its excesses, whose political marriage with the scion of the still popular retiring leader we thought would last forever.
But the marriage was irretrievably sundered by the chicanery of the president’s courtiers while he watched helplessly by.
Meanwhile, the corruption arising from the unbridled greed of legislators who by default ruled the country laid the economy listless, marked by inflation going haywire, investments seeking other climes, and the quality of life getting more and more un-endurable.
Yesterday, the multitudes came to show their rage over the dying of the light.
What will happen next, and what does the future bode for our saling-lahi?
Re-engineering governance for climate-smart infrastructure
EVERY time floodwaters rise in our streets and homes, the Filipino people are forced to confront a harsh truth: our country’s flood control system is failing us. But it’s not just the intensifying storms and rising seas that threaten our safety.
The man-made disaster of corruption, poor planning, and outdated infrastructure have left us exposed to the destructive consequences of climate change.
Since 2022, the Philippine government has poured over ₱545 billion into flood control programs. That staggering figure should have translated into stronger defenses for vulnerable communities. Instead, we see a dangerous disconnect between what’s on paper and what exists on the ground.
Congressional hearings and Commission on Audit reports have uncovered a litany of failed and “ghost” projects— billions siphoned into substandard construction or into nothing at all. These are not mere lapses in bureaucracy.
This is systemic plunder, enabled by a culture of impunity and a broken procurement process. Allegations that some contractors were required to pay kickbacks to win contracts are deeply troubling.
EDITORIAL
The momentum of indignation
THE twin rallies that happened at Luneta and at the EDSA Shrine, and in other locations across the country on Sunday showed Filipinos’ collective outrage at the systemic corruption in our country and at the hypocrisy of our leaders.
The common denominator among the demands was making the corrupt in government – whatever side of the political fence they may be on – accountable for their acts that have deprived Filipinos of services due them.
Recent revelations of the extent of government corruption, and collusion with private contractors, have fanned the anger of the people. Luxury cars, huge amounts of cash on tables, contributions from contractors, trips to the casino, the theatrics of public officials pretending to be persecuted, even saved messages pertaining to the secret arrangements – all these have fueled the people’s indignation at the
most climate-vulnerable countries, now experiences more frequent and intense rainfall events.
If true, this means funds meant to build life-saving infrastructure were diverted even before a single bag of cement was laid.
The man-made disaster of corruption, poor planning, and outdated infrastructure have left us exposed to the destructive consequences of climate change
The result? Dikes that crumble, drains that clog, and communities left submerged. These failures are not just engineering breakdowns—they are betrayals of public trust.
Meanwhile, the scientific reality is unrelenting.
Climate change is no longer a distant concern—it is already reshaping our lives.
The Philippines, among the world’s
A warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, fueling stronger typhoons and heavier downpours. What used to be “once-in-a-hundred-year” storms are now regular occurrences. Yet we remain stuck in the same loop of reactive, patchwork solutions.
This is why the shift toward scienceand nature-based solutions is urgent.
Grey infrastructure like concrete walls and dams can only do so much.
We need a smarter, more resilient approach—one that blends engineering with ecology and construction with environmental stewardship.
Restoring wetlands, protecting watersheds, and replanting mangroves are not romantic notions. These are proven, costeffective defenses against flooding.
Natural ecosystems absorb excess rainwater, slow flood flow, and reduce pressure on built infrastructure. They also provide co-benefits like better water quality, carbon capture, and biodiversity.
Crucial to this smarter approach is full utilization of Project NOAH—a world-class hazard mapping and disaster risk reduction initiative developed by the University of the Philippines. Using LiDAR and other remote sensing technologies, Project NOAH produces highresolution maps pinpointing flood-prone
May our outrage be strong, uncompromising, and consistent
abuse of taxpayers’ money. And, lest we forget: these are just flood-control projects, in certain provinces and cities. There are other government contracts in other areas in the country, overseen by other agencies, involving a different set of public
zones, landslides, and storm surges.
These tools should guide land-use planning, identify no-build zones, and site evacuation centers and green infrastructure where they matter most. But good sciencse means little without good governance. The government must match technology with transparent, accountable systems.
We must move beyond punishing corruption and instead dismantle the systems that allow it. That means making transparency a core function of governance.
We should harness digital tools, blockchain, and AI to monitor infrastructure projects in real time, flag irregularities, and track public funds.
These systems must be mandatory across national and local governments.
From bidding to implementation to auditing, data must be accessible and verifiable by both machines and civil society.
What we need is a national flood management master plan that prioritizes climate resilience, ecosystem protection, and community-based adaptation.
This plan must anticipate future risks—changing rainfall, rising seas, growing populations—and adjust accordingly.
It should allow flexibility for local watershed dynamics while enforcing strict standards of transparency and performance.
officials. It is likely what we are currently angry about dims in comparison to what we are not yet aware of. There were attempts to make the protests about – or against – one political entity over another. In this society the people are free to express what it is they demand from government. In the end, however, the calls boil down to making the corrupt accountable for the great damage they are doing to our people, and even more so for making a show out of public service.
As we learn about more irregularities in the so-called standard operating procedures in government deals, may we find our outrage strong and uncompromising enough to sustain the momentum of indignation. The Sept. 21 rallies are only the beginning. We will see this through until we get the outcome we want and deserve –leadership with principle and integrity, and a just and honest society in which Filipinos would thrive.
Water impounding infrastructure must also be prioritized—not just for flood mitigation, but as a vital source of fresh water for both households and irrigation.
These dual-purpose systems offer longterm value by improving water security in a warming, water-stressed world. Businesses, civil society, and academia must be engaged as active partners, not afterthoughts. The tools and innovations already exist—what’s needed now is the political will and a governance model that values real outcomes over political favors.
The stakes are too high. Global risk reports from the UN and World Economic Forum identify environmental threats as the defining challenge of our time. In our region, climate inaction ranks as the top risk—a damning verdict on the status quo and a clear call for reform.
This moment demands courageous governance.
Not just to expose the corrupt, but to future-proof our systems with science, technology, and integrity.
We owe it to every family who has lost a home or livelihood to flooding—not just to rebuild, but to build smarter and stronger.
We must shift from disaster response to disaster prevention. From outdated fixes to long-term safeguards. This is not just the rational choice—it is the moral one.
UK, Portugal to admit Palestine
LONDON – Britain and Portugal were on Sunday expected to recognize a Palestinian state, ahead of a key week at the UN’s gathering where a suite of nations are set to do the same to pressure Israel over Gaza.
A growing number of longtime Israeli allies have shifted positions in recent months as Israel has intensified its Gaza offensive, triggered by Hamas’s unprecedented 2023 attack.
The besieged Palestinian territory has suffered vast destruction, death and lack of food that have resulted in a major humanitarian crisis.
World leaders will gather for a key debate at the UN General Assembly in New York this week where the so-called twostate solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will be front and centre.
Around 10 nations are expected to recognise a Palestinian state in the coming days, with UK media outlets like the BBC, reporting that Prime Minister Keir Starmer would announce the policy shift on Sunday -- over fierce Israeli objection.
Starmer had said in July that Britain would formally recognize the State of Palestine if Israel did not take “substantive steps” towards a ceasefire with Hamas by the time the UN General Assembly convened.
The Labor leader said at the time that the move would make “a contribution to a proper peace process, at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solu-
tion”. In response, Israeli Prime Minister
Benjamin Netanyahu accused him of rewarding “monstrous terrorism” and appeasing “jihadist” ideology.
Portugal’s foreign ministry said on Friday that it would also formally declare its recognition on Sunday.
Lisbon had already announced in July that it intended to do so, citing the “extremely worrying evolution of the conflict” as well as the humanitarian crisis and Israel’s repeated threats to annex Palestinian land.
Since then, Israel has bombarded Gaza, a UN-backed hunger monitor has declared a famine in part of the territory and the Israeli military has said it will use “unprecedented force” to capture Gaza City.
France and Canada are among the other Western nations planning to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN gathering in the coming week.
Israel has vehemently opposed the moves and has reportedly threatened to annex the West Bank in response.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told AFP on Friday that the world “should not feel intimidated by the risk of retaliation” from Israel. AFP
is a GREAT CASE, and many lawyers, and legal pundits, say so,” Trump said Saturday, apparently referencing the probe into James. AFP
5.
ELSBETHAN, Austria – Three rebel nuns in their 80s have taken back their Austrian convent after fleeing from their care home, with supporters flocking to the nunnery during the weekend in a show of solidarity. Sisters Rita, 81, Regina, 86, and Bernadette, 88, have graced international headlines following their flight earlier this month from the care home the Catholic Church sent them to in late 2023 “against their will.”
Before then, the three were the last remaining nuns at Goldenstein castle in Elsbethen, south of the city of Salzburg, which has housed both the towering nunnery and a private school for almost 150 years.
Several of the nuns’ former students gathered at the majestic convent on Saturday to offer rosary prayers one bead at a time. Other allies of the rogue sisterhood joined later, bearing food or just stopping by for a chat.
The prayers’ calm offered a rare moment of respite amid the media whirlwind engulfing them in the aftermath of their unorthodox flight -and ongoing battles with the Church hierarchy over their right to remain in the nunnery.
Former student Eva-Maria Seeber, 76, told AFP that she had come to support the trio and take a stand.
“You can’t just relocate elderly people without asking them. It’s cruel,” she said, adding that two nuns were taken “straight from the hospital” to the nearby care home.
Relations with Church officials, who insist the nuns had to be placed in a Catholic care home due to their ailing health, have spiralled in recent weeks.
The trio’s superior, Provost Markus Grasl of the Reichersberg Abbey, has even accused them of violating their duties of obedience. AFP
LONDON – Major European airports including Brussels, Berlin and London’s Heathrow were Saturday hit by a cyberattack on check-in systems that caused cancellations and long delays for thousands of passengers.
Dublin and Cork airports in Ireland were also affected, Dublin airport said on X, adding that it was experiencing “minor impacts” from “a Europe-wide software issue”. According to aviation watchdog Eurocontrol, the airports were “reporting disruptions in IT systems related to passenger handling.” At least 10 flights were canceled out of Brussels Airport and another 17 delayed by over an hour after the system was hit by a “cyberattack” late Friday, the airport said.
“We have become aware of a cyber-related disruption to our MUSE software in select airports,” airport service provider Collins Aerospace told AFP.
impact is limited to electronic customer check-in and baggage drop,” added Collins
UNMOVING QUEUES.
ELUSIVE PEACE. Displaced Palestinians move with their belongings southwards on a road in the Nuseirat refugee camp area in the central Gaza Strip during the weekend as Israel presses its ground offensive to capture Gaza City.
LGUs urged to act as Nando intensifies
DBM says unprogrammed funds not ‘pork barrel’
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said unprogrammed appropriations (UA) are “not pork barrel or a magic fund” but legal standby funds authorized by Congress.
“I’ve noticed that there’s been a lot of confusion—and sometimes even deliberate misinformation—about the Unprogrammed Appropriations (UA). Some people call it pork barrel, others make it sound like DBM has a secret ‘magic fund’ it can use anytime. Both are completely wrong,” Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said.
She explained that the Unprogrammed Fund has one clear purpose: to provide standby appropriations already specified and authorized in the General Appropriations Act (GAA), which may be charged against excess or windfall revenues to fund specific programs and projects.
Pangandaman said UA funds may only be used under strict conditions, including the availability of excess revenues, new revenue measures,
or approved loans for foreignassisted projects—and only for the purposes identified in the law. Most UA items, she noted, are intended for foreign-assisted projects that cannot be included in regular agency budgets during preparation because their loan agreements are still pending approval or effectivity.
She stressed that the DBM cannot release UA funds on its own. Implementing agencies must formally request the funds and submit complete documentation. Requests are then evaluated against strict criteria, including alignment with the Philippine Development Plan, project readiness, fiscal space, priority status, and the certification of excess revenues by the Bureau of the Treasury.
“The legality of the UA has likewise been affirmed by the Supreme Court,” Pangandaman said, citing the 2019 ruling in Greco Belgica v. Executive Secretary, which upheld the constitutionality of UA as a clearly defined standby appropriation, not a prohibited lump-sum fund.
DOH cautions against leptospirosis
THE Department of Health on Sunday urged Filipinos to prepare emergency kits as Super Typhoon Nando threatens to bring heavy rains, floods, and landslides across northern and central Luzon. Officials stressed the importance of assembling a “go bag” with food, water, medicines, flashlights, and important documents. Authorities warned that heavy rains may trigger flash floods and landslides, and the department cautioned against the heightened risk of waterborne and mosquito-borne diseases during the storm season. To prevent dengue, households are encouraged to clean containers, remove stagnant water, dry wet areas, and keep water storage covered. In a separate advisory, the DOH raised concern over leptospirosis, an infection caused by exposure to floodwater contaminated with animal urine. The bacteria can enter the body through open wounds, increasing health risks during widespread flooding. The health department urged the public to avoid wading in floodwaters whenever possible. If exposure is unavoidable, residents should bathe immediately afterward. Doctors may prescribe preventive medication such as doxycycline, but officials warned against self-medication. The DOH said preparedness and vigilance are critical to preventing harm and disease outbreaks during extreme weather. Ram Superable
DMW says OFW lounges in NAIA will re-open
THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) confirmed that the OFW Lounges in Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1 and 3 will not close permanently. Instead, they will be expanded to serve more overseas Filipino workers.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac assured the public that the lounges will re-open following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive. He said the facilities have already served 1.5 million passengers since their launch and will continue operations to provide comfort and protection to OFWs during travel.
OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan added that the government is not only sustaining the lounges but also improving and expanding them. She said efforts are underway, in partnership with the DMW, to establish similar facilities at other major airports.
According to Caunan, new OFW Lounges are being considered for Cebu, Clark, and Davao airports. The first lounge opened at NAIA Terminal 1 in January 2024, followed by a second facility six months later. Ma. Katrina Mikaela Manubay
By Vince Lopez
THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) today reiterated its call for all Local Government Units (LGUs) to immediately enforce preemptive evacuation and critical safety measures, as Typhoon Nando intensified into a super typhoon as of 8:00 a.m. on September 21.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla stressed that with Nando now stronger, LGUs must waste no time in moving families out of danger zones.
He underscored that lives are at stake and that preemptive evacuation is no longer an option but an obligation of government and a responsibility of communities.
The DILG issued an urgent advisory yesterday directing LGUs to carry out anticipatory measures, including evacuation, liquor bans, the no-sail policy, and preparation of evacuation centers. With the threat now greater, the department emphasized that these directives must be enforced swiftly and without delay.
LGUs were instructed to implement preemptive or mandatory evacuation in barangays highly susceptible to storm surges, flooding, and landslides. They were also directed to strictly enforce the no-sail policy to protect fisherfolk and travelers, and to ensure that evacuation centers are powered, stocked, and safe for evacuees.
1.
of the 1.6 MW Dulangan Mini-Hydro Power Plant
Brgy. Paitan, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.
2. The Terms of Reference for Financing Agreement for Dulangan Mini-Hydro Power Plant are shown below:
I.Introduction ORMECO, INC. is seeking partnerships with capable proponents for the rehabilitation and potential uprating of the 1.6 MW Dulangan Mini Hydro Power Plant located in Brgy. Paitan, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro. Interested proponents shall submit proposals that include, but are not limited to, the financing of the project, the conduct of
ORMECO, Inc.
II.Project Overview • 1.6 MW Mini Hydro Power Plant (subject
the results of the Feasibility Study)
uprating
• Located at Brgy. Paitan, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.
• To be connected to the nearest 13.8kV/69kV asset.
III.Financing Structure
• 100% of the financing costs shall be provided by the selected partner.
IV. Cooperation Period The financing agreement shall commence upon the signing of the contract with the selected partner and remain in effect until the full repayment of the financing costs has been completed from the Commercial Operations Date (COD).
V. Commercial Operation Date (COD) The hydro power plant must be commissioned by 2030.
VI.Capital Expenditures Proponents must provide an unbundled, estimated cost for each phase of the project. - No indexation on the Total Capital Expenditures.
- Connection Assets needed to connect the Power Plant to the grid must be included. - Costs for the Comprehensive Feasibility Study and Detailed Engineering
6.
Local governments were likewise reminded to provide food and humanitarian support to affected families, enforce liquor bans in high-risk areas, clear waterways, monitor dams and quarry sites, and secure critical infrastructure.
The DILG said it is working closely with Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (RDRRMCs) and local chief executives to ensure compliance and to guarantee that all barangays are prepared.
Remulla stressed that the classification of Nando as a super typhoon makes preemptive evacuation non-negotiable. He said government action combined with citizen cooperation is the only way to save lives, urging families in vulnerable areas to heed evacuation orders and move to safety immediately.
The department also reminded the public to stay updated with PAGASA bulletins and LGU advisories. Remulla said what is needed now is not only preparedness but immediate action.
MASSIVE. Protesters in Bacolod City stage a trillion-peso rally against corruption. Lawyer Renecito Novero, secretary general of the Council of Concerned Citizens and member of the One Negros Ecumenical Council, described the protest as ‘massive, militant yet peaceful.’ Edwin Ombion
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2025
RIERA
RANDY M.
Italy stops Argentina to stay alive
OUTSIDE hitter Alessandro Mich-
ieletto showed the way for Italy as they remained on track for a second straight crown at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship on Sunday at the Mall of Asia.
Michieletto dished out 15 points, including three kill blocks for the Italian spikers in their 25-23, 25-20, 25-22 stopping of Argentina.
Their quarterfinal opponent will be known at the end of the encounter between Belgium and Finland. Argentina stayed in the thick of the fight and kept it tight, 20-all in in the third set.
Three consecutive aces from opposite hitter Yuri Romano brought Italy to match point.
Romano went on to score total of four aces and a kill block in tallying 14 points, while Mattia Bottolo added another 13.
“Every match at a World Championship is incredibly difficult. We saw a lot of surprises, but Italy is still here, in Manila, and I hope we can stay another week. With those three aces in a row, Yuri won the third set alone. So incredible!” said Michieletto.
Earlier, Poland made it to quarterfinals on Saturday off a 25-18, 23-25, 25-18, 25-14 victory over Canada. Peter Atencio
Summit Point clash: Varsity golf in spotlight
THE pursuit of bragging rights as the first-ever ICTSI Intercollegiate Tour (ITT) champion culminates in three days of high-stakes action beginning tomorrow (Tuesday, Sept. 23) at the Summit Point Golf and Country Club in Lipa City, Batangas.
More than just a final leg, this event is a historic milestone – ushering in a new era of organized collegiate golf in the country.
Launched in June and co-developed by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. and the Philippine Golf Foundation, the IIT was created with a bold vision: to elevate golf as a legitimate varsity sport, on par with basketball, volleyball and athletics in the collegiate scene.
Through structured, high-level competition and a development-driven approach, the Tour aims to create pathways for scholarships, professional careers and international exposure for young Filipino golfers.
By integrating World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points into the competition, the ITT is already aligning itself with global standards. This means players not only compete for national glory but also gain traction on the world stage – an unprecedented opportunity in the local golf scene.
Over the last two months, the Tour held four action-packed legs at premier courses including Royal Northwoods, Splendido Taal, Caliraya Springs, Pradera Verde, Beverly Place and Eastridge.
The result: a finals field stacked with talent. On the men’s side, 14 top-performing golfers from leading universities and colleges earned their spot in the individual championship. Meanwhile, eight of the country’s leading collegiate women golfers will vie for supremacy in the ladies’ division.
In the team competition, seven schools in both divisions will clash under a threeto-play format, emphasizing not just individual skill but also team chemistry and strategic depth. Among the standouts in the men’s individual competition are Sean Granada of College of St. Benilde-1, who won at Splendido Taal, and Zachary Castro of La Salle-1, the Pradera Verde leg champion. They will be challenged by a formidable field including Rans Balay-odao (University of the Cordilleras), Emilio Carpio (UP-1), Emilio Curran (Ateneo-1), and others from La Salle, Ateneo, U P and CSB.
Obiena regains winning form in front of Filipinos SPORTS
By Peter Atencio
FILIPINO superstar athlete Ernest John Obiena leapt to his season’s best this year on a cloudy and overcast day, right in front of his cheering countrymen in winning the Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge on Sunday.
The 29-year-old Obiena, who struggled with an 11th-place finish in the recent World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, cleared the rain-drenched
UP tossers rally past Tigresses in Super League
UNIVERSITY of the Philippines
pulled off a gritty 25-22, 18-25, 25-19, 18-25, 15-13, come-frombehind win over University of Santo Tomas to open its campaign in the 2025 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Preseason Unity Cup on a bright note Sunday at the Playtime FilOil Centre in San Juan.
The Fighting Maroons uncorked a closing 8-0 barrage in the deciding set to erase a six-point deficit and walk away with a huge victory in Pool C of the league, backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner and R and B Milk Tea.
Casiey Dongallo finished with 20 points built from 18 kills, one ace and a kill block to power the National Invitationals Davao Leg runner-up. She added seven digs and five excellent receptions for an all-around performance for UP.
Veteran Nina Ytang scored 15 points off 10 attacks and five kill blocks while Kianne Olango, Bien Bansil and Jelai Gajero added nine markers each for the Fabio Menta-mentored Fighting Maroons. UP clawed its way out of a deep, 13-7, hole in the fifth set by taking advantage of a costly
service error by UST winger Margaret Altea.
The Fighting Maroons strung five more points off Irah Jaboneta, Olango and Bansil, who tipped in an easy ball off a UST over reception to reach matchpoint.
Dongallo hammered the final blow to complete the escape.
“Siguro nandoon na yung ibinibigay na confidence ng mga seniors namin at mga coaches. Kasi noong pumasok na sina Ate Nina and Ate Irah, sinasabi nila sa amin na ilaban lang, kahit na lamang sila basta pusuan namin at tibayan namin,” said Dongallo.
“Naka-boost ng confidence namin sa loob na nadoon yung seniors namin nakagabay sa amin and sa mga coaches namin.”
UP displayed its vaunted net defense with Ytang and Bansil combining for 10 of the team’s 15 kill blocks in the competition, supported by Asics, Mikasa, Smart Sports, Summit, Team Rebel Sports, Belo Deo, Eurotel- Apo View Hotel, Batangas Country Club, Executive Optical, Baic Auto Philippines, SM Tickets and PusoP.com as technical partners.
Omandam, Lim blaze to victory in Damosa Land 5150 debut
SAMAL ISLAND—Eryk Omandam and Natasha Doromal-Lim stamped their class in style, powering their way to victory in the inaugural Damosa Land 5150 Triathlon, securing the men’s and women’s overall crowns against a strong international field on Sunday. The duo conquered the challenging Olympic-distance course – comprising a 1.5km swim, 40km bike, and 10km run – with sheer determination and strategic racing. Omandam, only 20 years old and a third-year Human Resource Management student at University of Mindanao, clinched the men’s title in 2:20:24 (20:20 swim, 1:12:12 bike, 44:04 run), surging past more experienced triathletes.
“The bike was manageable but tough because you never know what’s coming. But during the run, I realized I was in a good position
because I couldn’t see anyone close behind,” said Omandam in Filipino, who also ruled the 20-24 age category of the event organized by Sunrise Events, Inc. which drew over 1,110 athletes from across the Philippines and other countries.
Omandam, fresh from a fourthplace age group finish in IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu, outpaced Arthur Abogado (2:22:26), who dominated the 45-49 division, and Jonard Saim (2:26:21), who settled for third overall.
The Damosa Land 5150 debut not only crowned champions but also cemented its place as a premier race in the Philippine triathlon calendar –one that delivered scenic views, shifting challenges and breakthrough performances from start to finish.
In the women’s race, Lim delivered a breakthrough performance after five previous 5150 starts. She clocked
2:47:33 (26:01 swim, 1:18:50 bike, 58:11 run), finally tasting victory after years of consistent training and recent work with a coach.
“I’ve been preparing for two years now,” said the 32-year-old Lim, who also captured the 30-34 age group title. “The swim was tricky because of the current, and the bike route was really challenging. But the run was almost perfect – shaded and flat.”
Lim held off Faith Garcia (2:50:55) for the overall title, with Alessandra Aquino finishing third (2:53:24) and clinching the 20-24 category crown.
Athletes raced under shifting weather, with overcast skies during the swim giving way to bright sunshine in the bike leg. The run segment, set against a tree-lined path, offered brief relief with its shade and scenic backdrop, though the final uphill stretch proved a punishing end for many.
I
Jr Altas to parade 12 rookies, seek NCAA title repeat
By Dennis Abrina
parade their 12 newbies and 6 holdovers in the opening of the NCAA Season 101 on October 1 at the Araneta Colisuem in Cubao, QC. Coach Joph Cleopas is optimistic that his 18-man lineup will fight to defend the crown they won for the first time since they joined the tournament in 1985. Cleopas will rely on holdovers GenTri pride Loiue Rosales, team captain Lance Nitura, Jim Corpuz, Renzo Zanoria, Ezekiel Zamoras, Kurt Patalinhug and Kurt Velasquez. He is also confident that Batang Gilas standouts Rayven Restificar, Brent Rosales and Jones Ferrer, Hanz Llupar, Jude Binagatan, Daniel Dulanas CeeJay Catillejo, Manu Ignacio, Arkin Cristobal, Emmanuel Villaruel and Vandolf Urdaneta can ably fill up the vacuum left off by Season 100 MVP LeBron Jhames Daep, who is now with La Salle, Icee Callangan, who is with Mapua, and JD Pagulayan, Jan Roluna, Aries Borja, Jericho Cristino, Kelsey Baldoria and TJ Tabbuan, who have moved on to Perpetual’s senior team.
The team’s strength will be tested when it faces the San Sebastian College on October 3 at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
Ateneo’s Shane Tan will be one of the golfers to watch out for in the rst-ever ICTSI Intercollegiate Tour (ITT) nals at the Summit Point Golf and Country Club.
UP’s Kianne Olango smashes one in. Roman Prospero
Eryk Omandam Icee Callangan (left) is now with Mapua, while Jericho Cristino is with the Perpetual senior team. Dennis Abrina
Ernest John Obiena’s winning moment
Obiena: Season best vaulting box at the height of 5.80 meters in his second attempt as he snared the gold medal when action ended at the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati. Frenchman Thibaut Collet reached the same height that Obiena cleared on
medal.
“I needed to rest. But I said
gotta go with this,” said Obiena after he equalled his best performance from three other competitions that he joined early this year in Poland, the Philippines and Madrid. Collet, who was seeking to have the best experience on his first trip to Manila, was a centimeter short of his personal best with his silver-medal finish. Still, this was the 26-year-old Collet’s best showing after placing fifth in the World Athletics Championships last week. Polish bet Piotr Lisek finished at third after hitting 5.6 meters.
Alessandro Michieletto
Green Lane investments reach P5.93t
By Othel V. Campos
THE government’s Green Lane Program for Strategic Investments has certified 216 projects with a combined value of P5.93 trillion as of Sept. 15, 2025, with renewable energy emerging as the country’s strongest magnet for capital.
Data from the Office of the Strategic Action Center for Strategic Investments (OSACSI) showed that renewable energy projects dominated both in volume and value, accounting for 166 of the approved projects, or nearly 77 percent of the total. RE ventures represented P5.07 trillion, or 85.6 percent, of the overall project cost.
“This reflects the growing global confidence in the Philippines as a hub for sustainable energy investments. Investors are clearly betting on our renewable energy capacity, not just to meet our own domestic demand but to strengthen regional energy security,” said OSACSI director Ernie Delos Reyes.
Foreign investments reached P1.67 trillion over the period, with renewable energy again claiming the lion’s share at P1.36 trillion.
Employment generation across sectors was estimated at 392,827 jobs, led by renewable energy with 244,202 potential jobs, followed by infrastructure-related projects with 113,215.
“We are seeing encouraging signals in digital infrastructure, food security, and water-related projects. These sectors may not yet match renewable energy in terms of scale, but they are vital in building resilience and
P5.93 trillion 216
392,827 Investments endorsed Investment projects endorsed
New jobs expected
ensuring inclusive growth,” Delos Reyes said, stressing that the strategic investment pipeline is not limited to energy.
The report showed that digital infrastructure ranked second in project cost, attracting P352.1 billion in investments and generating over 20,000 jobs.
Foreign buyers help absorb US tariffs on PH exports
FOREIGN buyers are helping to absorb some of the 19 percent tariff on Philippine garment exports, the Foreign Buyers Association of the Philippines (FOBAP) said over the weekend.
FOBAP said this could help the Philippine surpass $1 billion in garments exports this year.
FOBAP president Robert Young said long-standing buyers, particularly in the United States, have shown solidarity by agreeing to shoulder part of the tariff burden.
This has helped Philippine-made garments remain competitive against lower-priced exports from Vietnam, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
“Some of our big buyers even volunteered to pay up to 100 percent of the 19-percent tariff in the first year. This shows how important business
relationships are,” Young said, noting that these commitments are crucial for sustaining orders.
The tariff continues to threaten the competitiveness of Philippine apparel, which is already priced 10 percent to 15 percent higher than that of its regional rivals, Young said.
Despite these challenges, FOBAP anticipates a stronger export performance compared to last year’s nearly $900 million, citing “pushout” or accelerated deliveries.
“We are hopeful this push will help maintain employment in the garment industry and keep dollar inflows to the country, which are crucial in paying off international debts,” Young said.
He noted that attempts to strike reciprocal deals in India during a recent Philippine trade mission yielded no gains.
“While we continue to buy fabrics and cotton from India, they have not reciprocated by buying our garments. We were hoping that India would buy some high fashion apparel or at least, indigenous slivers,” Young said.
The Philippines, through FOBAP, sources millions of dollars of Indian cotton and textiles annually.
As FOBAP celebrates its 48th year in November, Young said the group remains hopeful that continued support from foreign partners, along with possible legal challenges to the tariff in the US Supreme Court, will give the industry more room to compete.
“If the tariff is eventually cancelled, then we can go back to normal. Until then, the support of our buyers is keeping the industry afloat,” he said.
Othel V. Campos
ID INTEGRATION. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and Pag-IBIG Fund sign an agreement to integrate the
National ID authentication services with Virtual Pag-IBIG. Leading the event are National Statistician and Civil Registrar
General Claire Dennis Mapa (fifth from left) and Pag-IBIG Fund chief executive Marilene Acosta (third from left). PSA’s
Local stocks seen sustaining gains after US Fed comments
By Jenniffer B. Austria
LOCAL shares are expected to sustain their gains this week as sentiment turned positive following dovish comments from the US Federal Reserve.
“Local market may try to extend its gains supported by hopes of more Fed rate cuts within the year,” said Japhet Tantiangco, head of research at Philstocks Financial Inc.
He said hopes may drive Wall Street higher and local bond yields lower, both of which are positive for the local market.
Last week, the US Fed hinted at two more rate cuts before the end of the year to support the country’s weakening labor market. These dovish comments are fueling hopes of more policy easing from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.
Tantiangco, however, noted that one factor dampening sentiment is the weakening of the peso against the
dollar.
Last week, the Philippine Stock Exchange rallied by 115 points, or 2.5 percent, week-on-week to close at 6,264. Average value turnover jumped 38 percent to P8.8 billion while overseas investors became net buyers, averaging P71 million versus average selling of P31 million.
The rally was largely due to the 25 basis points rate cut by the US Fed, which also signaled 50 basis points rate cuts before year-end, assuming the inflation rate remains stable.
“With BSP tracking Fed’s rhythm, in the short/medium term, selective bets on high ROE (return-on-equity) names compelling arc for diversified portfolios, at least while the PSEi awaits on volume and momentum,” online brokerage firm 2TradeAsia. com said.
For this week, the PSEi’s immediate support is 6,000 while resistance is at 6,300.
First Gen plans Mindanao geothermal drilling
GREEN LIGHT
Jessica Jaye Ranieses
THIS article uses masculine- and feminine-coded language to highlight how job advertisements reinforce workplace inequality between men and women. While this focus is used for clarity, it is not meant to diminish the identities and experiences of people of other genders, whose voices are equally vital to conversations on equity and inclusion.
Gender inequality in the workplace manifests in many ways. It is evident in the gender pay gap, the underrepresentation of women in C-suite positions, and the limited presence of women in traditionally male-dominated fields such as engineering and finance. Decades of research have shown that gender inequality is shaped by a myriad of structural, cultural, and psychological factors. These factors such as the “glass ceiling,” the “motherhood penalty,” gender stereotypes, and hiring biases, will continue to perpetuate gender inequality unless we continue to talk about and do something about it. But what is more concerning would be factors that we may not be unaware of due simply because we do not realize the harm it may cause.
Ambitious, assertive, dominant, competitive, individualistic. These are words that suggest achievement and authority; words tied to independence, assertiveness; agentic traits traditionally associated with men in leadership roles. On the other side of the coin, there’s supportive, nurturing, collaborative; words that signal being relationshipfocused; communal traits associated with women. These stereotypes don’t just shape how we describe male and female leaders; they also seep into hiring biases. I’m not just talking about biases in screening. Bias can start much earlier, in the very language used in job descriptions—shaping how opportunities are perceived and pursued.
In the 2011 four-phase study of Gaucher, Friesen, and Kay where they examined over 4,000 job advertisements, they found that job advertisements for male-dominated occupations contained significantly more masculine-coded words (e.g., leader, ambitious, dominant, competitive) than those for female-dominated ones. On the
By moving beyond the ‘default male’ and choosing inclusive language in job ads, we open doors to a wider, more diverse pool of talent
other hand, feminine-coded words (e.g., supportive, understanding, compassionate, interpersonal) appeared equally across fields. In the experiment they conducted, results showed that masculine wording reduced women’s sense of belongingness and made jobs less appealing. In other words, they are more likely to get discouraged to apply for the job. This finding is corroborated by a more recent study by He and Kang in 2025. The study tested whether replacing masculinecoded words in job postings with genderneutral synonyms could broaden applicant pools. They found that in both lab and field settings, the intervention increased applications not only from women but also from men who were less aligned with traditional masculine norms.
I did a quick scan of job postings from Philippine companies. Of course, this was more of a surface check than the kind of rigorous studies I’ve cited earlier, but even at a glance the pattern is noticeable. For instance, one senior finance role leaned heavily on masculinecoded language, using phrases like “track record of successfully raising significant capital,” “direct experience leading a company through major transitions,” and “Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to communicate a compelling financial vision.” On the surface, these sound like common requirements we often see in job advertisements, but their familiarity is precisely what makes them powerful and often overlooked. There are many studies that suggest that words such as “track record,” “significant,” “direct,” “leading,” and “exceptional” are agentic, signaling authority, achievement, and
dominance. What may seem routine and accurate to the role can, in practice, reinforce stereotypes and unintentionally discourage women from applying.
The pattern across job postings reflects what scholars call the “default male”—the assumption that the ideal worker or leader is male, and that traits coded as masculine as the standard. This default seeps into everyday practices, often invisibly, and reinforces structural barriers for women and other genders.
So, what can we do? One clear step is to become more intentional with language. That means going beyond gender-neutral greetings, like changing “Hey guys” to “Hey folks.” Organizations can audit their job postings to identify masculinecoded or feminine-coded words and replace them with neutral, inclusive alternatives. Instead of “track record,” we can say “proven experience.” Instead of “direct,” we can say “practical” or “applied.” Instead of “exceptional,” we can say “effective” or “strong.” Instead of “leading,” we can say “guiding” or “supporting.” Instead of “significant,” we can say “substantial” or “notable.” These small shifts matter because they change who sees themselves in the role and who feels encouraged to apply.
Words shape who feels welcome and who holds back. By moving beyond the “default male” and choosing inclusive language in job ads, we open doors to a wider, more diverse pool of talent—a step toward ensuring that everyone has a seat at the table.
Dr. Jessica Jaye Ranieses is an Associate Professor in the Department of Decision Sciences and Innovation at De La Salle University and the President of the Philippine Academy of Management. She can be contacted at jessica.ranieses@dlsu.edu.ph and often shares her personal reflections on teaching, research, and work at www. shewhoteaches.blog.
The perspectives shared in this piece are solely the author’s and do not necessarily represent the official views of De La Salle University, its faculty, or its administration.
By Alena Mae S. Flores
LOPEZ-LED First Gen Corp., through its subsidiary Energy Development Corp., plans to begin exploratory drilling next month at the Amacan geothermal field in Mindanao.
The drilling program is estimated to cost P3 billion.
First Gen president Francis Giles Puno said the company has already sent a drilling rig to the Amacan prospect in Davao de Oro to determine the field’s capacity.
“The good thing about it is, it’s greenfield geothermal. It’s not an expansion,” Puno said on the sidelines of the recent Philippine Net Zero Conference 2025. “And we’re hoping that it’s at least a 70 to 100 megawatts opportunity.”
If successful, the Amacan geothermal project will be the second geothermal resource in Mindanao developed by First Gen, after Mt. Apo in Kidapawan.
Puno said the project is part of the company’s goal to reach 13,000 megawatts by 2030, which includes potential overseas investments.
“Part of it is really growing geothermal, part of it is growing solar, part of it is also growing hydro hopefully.
And hopefully, acquisition opportunities,” he said.
The company is also planning to develop 500 to 600 megawatts of geothermal projects in Indonesia and is scaling up its solar projects due to lower construction costs.
“So, we’re hoping that we can develop the 50 megawatts first and then replicate that. And then of course, hopefully expand
hydro as well,” he said. The expansion also includes natural gas plants, with the possibility of developing the 1,200-megawatt Santa Rita project in Batangas in partnership with Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. As of July 2025, First Gen is the third-largest firm on both the national and Luzon grids, with a market share of 12.41 percent and 13.10 percent, respectively. It has a national grid capacity of 3,524.476 megawatts and a Luzon grid capacity of 2,706 megawatts. According to the Energy Regulatory Commission, First Gen is also the dominant player in the Visayas grid, with a 20.58 percent market share (708.48 megawatts).
First Gen president Francis Giles Puno
IN BRIEF
DOF backs President’s decision to restore P60-b PhilHealth funds
THE Department of Finance (DOF) has voiced support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s decision to restore P60 billion in unutilized funds to the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth).
The funds were previously remitted to the National Treasury under a provision of the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
The DOF said in a statement over the weekend it had provided a solicited opinion to the President, stating that since PhilHealth’s revenue performance had improved, a fund augmentation was supported to expand benefits and services.
The department said it recommended the restoration of the P60 billion, also noting that the creation of fiscal space from the termination and sus-
Foreign reserves climb to $107.1b on BOP surplus
By Thony Rose Lesaca
THE Philippines’ gross international reserves (GIR) climbed to $107.1 billion as of end-August from $105.4 billion in the previous month on the back of balance of payments (BOP) surplus, data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed over the weekend.
The latest GIR remains an adequate external liquidity buffer, equivalent to 7.2 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income, the BSP said.
It also covers about 3.7 times the country’s short-term external debt based on residual maturity, it said.
GIR consists of foreign-denominated securities, foreign exchange and other assets including gold. GIR help a country finance its imports and foreign debt obligations, stabilize its currency and provide a buffer against external economic shocks.
The Philippines posted a BOP surplus of $359 million in August 2025, reversing the $167-million deficit in July and the $88-million surplus in the same month last year.
The BSP said the surplus was due to its net income from international investments, which helped narrow the country’s eight-month BOP deficit to $5.4 billion from $5.8 billion in the first seven months of 2025.
The eight-month shortfall was still led by the continued trade-in-goods deficit, which stood at $28.5 billion from January to July, according to preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority.
pension of flood control projects was another contributing factor.
It said the restoration of the funds would specifically allow PhilHealth to meet its Zero Balance Billing program obligations.
“The expansion of services requires the infusion of funds, and we in the revenue sector will do our job so that such an important public service will be financed,” the DOF said.
The department also noted its satisfaction that “wasteful expenditures will now be rechanneled to hospital wards.”
Under the 2024 GAA, Congress ordered the DOF to sweep idle and unused fund balances from governmentowned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) to finance key government projects. The DOF said it received approval from the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG), the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC), the Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) and the Commission on Audit (COA) before the fund sweep.
It said of the P60 billion remitted by PhilHealth, P27.45 billion were used to pay for the Health Emergency Allowances of COVID-19 frontliners.
Other critical programs funded included Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (P10 billion), the procurement of medical equipment for the
Department of Health (DOH) and local government unit (LGU) hospitals, and primary care facilities (P4.10 billion). It also funded three DOH health facilities (P3.37 billion) and the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (P1.69 billion).
The remaining P13 billion were used to fund government counterpart financing for foreign-assisted infrastructure and “social determinants for health” projects, aimed at accelerating healthcare services in remote areas and enhancing the well-being of Filipinos.
A combination of management changes and system overhauls at PhilHealth led to significant improvements in services. The package rate for breast cancer patients rose from P100,000 to P1.4 million, representing a 1,300-percent increase.
MICE DESTINATION. Clark Development Corp. (CDC) showcases Clark’s growing potential as a Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions
Bangko Sentral launches bidding for P40-b security complex in New Clark City
By Jenniffer B. Austria
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has started the bidding process for a P40-billion new security complex, drawing interest from major infrastructure contractors, an industry source said.
The project, the new BSP Security Complex in New Clark City in Tarlac, could be divided into three packages, the source said. The planned minting
office could cost P14 billion. A contractor said it would be “a big project.”
Several large contractors have reportedly submitted bids for the project, although the bidding process remains open.
Procurement for the general contractor is expected to be finalized by the end of the year.
The planned 31.3-hectare complex is designed to decongest Metro Manila, redistribute economic activity
Meralco PowerGen eyes 1,500-MW Malaysia expansion
By Alena Mae S. Flores
MERALCO PowerGen Corp.
(MGEN), the power generation arm of Manila Electric Co., is exploring opportunities to develop up to 1,500 megawatts (MW) of power capacity in Malaysia amid the country’s growing data center industry.
MGEN president Emmanuel Rubio told reporters that Malaysia is preparing for significant investments in data centers, which are expected to require substantial new power capacity.
“They’re expecting or trying to attract 8,000 megawatts of capacity (in data centers),” Rubio said.
SCG country director Jirasak Kaewubol (left), Thailand Ambassador to the Philippines Makawadee Sumitmor and Department of Education director Amorsolo Camara Jr. attend SCG’s ‘Sharing the Dream’ program which marks its 17th year of nurturing the next generation of Filipino leaders.
“I believe data centers would be the new divide between developed and developing countries. Who has control of AI,” he said. Malaysia has attracted data center investments from tech giants including Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Huawei and Alibaba. The new facilities will require an estimated 8 gigawatts of new grid capacity, Rubio said, adding that MGEN is scouting for a local partner to help it participate in the market.
“I don’t think MGEN would go to a different country without a local partner,” he said.
Rubio said the company is eyeing opportunities for new greenfield proj-
ects or the development of a brownfield power plant, which is a facility on a previously used site.
He said MGEN aims to capture 1,200 MW to 1,500 MW of capacity, a size similar to its investments in Singapore, with a target completion date of late 2028 at the earliest.
The company aims to double its net saleable and attributable power capacity within the next five years. As of July 2025, MGEN’s net saleable capacity was 5,068 MW, with an attributable capacity of 2,559 MW. It expects to have 10,346 MW of net saleable capacity and 5,288 MW of attributable capacity by 2030.
and strengthen national resilience by moving key BSP functions to a new location.
The complex is being designed for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, and will feature open spaces aligned with New Clark City’s “smart and green city” design.
Aidea Inc., the project’s architectural and engineering consultant, recently completed the detailed architectural and
engineering design documents. The new complex will house facilities for security printing, minting, refining, cash operations and production of the National ID, among other structures.
The BSP plans to transfer its operations to Clark by 2028. The BSP entered into a 50-year lease agreement with the Bases Conversion Development Corp. in 2021, with an option to renew for another 25 years.
SCG marks 17 years of supporting Filipino students
SCG awarded scholarships to 290 students in the Philippines this year through its “Sharing the Dream” program, bringing the total number of recipients to more than 4,000 since the program began in 2008.
Around 250 high school students received an educational assistance package valued at P12,000 Philippine each, which includes a transportation allowance and school supplies at an event on Sept. 12 at the Acacia Hotel in Muntinlupa City. Forty college students were also granted P20,000 annually to support their studies.
The company focuses its scholarship efforts on communities where it has a strong presence, including Batangas, Manila, Bulacan and Taguig.
“We believe in the value of the individuals. That’s why we believe building human capital is the most
important, which we achieve through education and upskilling people,” said SCG country director Jirasak Kaewubol.
The program’s theme this year, “Green Generation,” highlights the company’s belief that every person’s potential matters and that education is the key to building a stronger nation. Department of Education director Amorsolo Camara Jr. said the program gives students confidence that “changes not only their lives but the lives of their families and the communities as well.”
The program is a key part of SCG’s corporate social responsibility initiatives, which aim to improve the livelihoods of Filipinos through economic, social, and environmental development.
(MICE) destination during the 8th Hospitality Philippines Conference (HPC 2025) on Sept. 17 to 18 at Marriott Manila. Representing CDC during the event is vice president for business development and business enhancement Atty. Noelle Mina Meneses (second from right) as a panelist where she shared insights on hotel ownership models and highlighted Clark’s growing potential as a MICE destination.
STAR AWARDS. Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) chairman and administrator Eduardo Jose Aliño (second from left) is the keynote speaker and guest of honor during the 1st Sustainable Tourism Appreciation and Recognition (STAR) awards at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) on Sept. 11, 2025. With him are (from left) SBMA tourism manager Mary Jamelle Camba, Desmond Farm corporate secretary/manager Kaiselle Atun (awardee), DOT Region 3 regional director Richard Daenos and SBMA senior deputy administrator for business group Barney Lee. Joseph Muego
REAL ESTATE
Damosa Land’s Bridgeport boosts Samal Island
ANEW mixed-use development called Bridgeport is bringing major changes to Samal Island, Davao City. Developed by Mindanao-based property developer Damosa Land, this 13-hectare project includes lowdensity condominiums, premium open lots, a condotel, commercial spaces, restaurants, and an exclusive marina, making it a key driver of tourism and the local economy.
Known for its white sand beaches and natural beauty, Samal Island welcomed over 230,000 visitors in 2024. It continues to be a top travel destination in Mindanao. With developments like Bridgeport, the island is also gaining attention as a new hotspot for real estate and investment.
“Samal has always been known for its natural beauty, and with Bridgeport, we are creating a
community that complements the island’s character. The development embodies our vision of coastal living, where modern convenience meets the island’s serene landscapes, giving residents and visitors an authentic sense of belonging,” said Damosa Land President Ricardo Floirendo Lagdameo. Island Living with Easy Access Samal Island is located just minutes
away from Davao City, making Bridgeport very accessible to tourists and investors. The island’s location is less prone to typhoons, making it a safer choice for property buyers. Bridgeport is designed to connect people to both nature and modern conveniences. Units are priced at around ₱200,000 per square meter, offering strong investment potential in a growing tourism and real estate market.
Bridgeport’s development is also helping create jobs in construction, hospitality, and real estate. With 273 condo units, 22 premium lots, a commercial zone, and an exclusive marina, it’s providing new opportunities for local workers and entrepreneurs.
It also includes 1.3 hectares of open space, a 5,000 sqm forest park, and scenic walking trails—ideal for families, retirees, or anyone seeking a peaceful lifestyle close to nature.
A Future Built on Paradise
Bridgeport is more than a real estate project, it’s helping transform Samal into a lifestyle destination. With world-class amenities, cultural richness, natural beauty, and strong economic growth, the island offers something for everyone.
“Samal Island stands as a cornerstone of tourism and sustainable development in the region. As exemplified in developments like Bridgeport, we recognize Samal’s potential and remain steadfast in fostering economic growth, all while preserving the island’s natural allure,” said Lagdameo.
From families looking for a peaceful home to investors seeking high returns, Bridgeport shows how sustainable development can benefit both the community and the economy. Jenniffer B. Austria
Scottsdale Villas and Redstone condominiums in Tagaytay Highlands set for turnover
landscaped gardens, open spaces, and greenery.
Scottsdale is one of the three types of Garden Villas in the community, alongside Glendale and Sunnyvale. These are spacious three-storey townhomes ranging from 139 to 172 square meters, ideal for families
December 2025, while Redstone Condominiums will follow by March 2026, marking the completion of Horizon Terraces. These projects come at a time when demand for upscale vacation homes south of Metro Manila continues to rise, especially in cooler, more scenic destinations like Tagaytay. Located in the Midlands district of Tagaytay Highlands, Horizon Terraces was built as a thoughtfully planned residential enclave combining both townhomes and condominium units. Spanning over 3.2 hectares, the community was designed with relaxation in mind as more than 70 percent of the space is dedicated to
seeking privacy and comfort in a mountain resort setting. Redstone Condominiums, on the other hand, are part of the Garden Suites collection, which includes low-rise one- and twobedroom units ranging from 35 to 103 square meters in buildings like St. Andrews, Glenview, and Westchase.
Move in now with Aboitiz
Land’s ready homes
ABOITIZ Land is making it easier for Filipinos to own a home now, not years from now, by offering readyfor-occupancy (RFO) houses and lots in its master-planned communities.
These homes are already built and available, which means buyers can skip the long construction wait and move in immediately or start earning from rentals. With today’s fast-paced real estate market, RFO homes have become more appealing for both homebuyers and investors. Aboitiz Land responds to this growing demand by offering a range of RFO options across Luzon and Cebu.
more than just a fast move-in date. In Central Luzon, Ajoya communities provide low-density living and growing property values. Buyers in these areas not only gain a home but also immediate access to a complete neighborhood with parks, open spaces, and nearby essentials. In Cebu, the Amoa community in Compostela is known for its demand and limited availability. Buyers here enjoy large open spaces, swimming pools, and jogging paths in a community designed for growth and comfort. In Batangas, The Villages at LIMA Estate offers RFO homes and lots within a booming business district.
These properties come with flexible payment terms and, in some cases, sizable discounts, making it even more accessible for buyers to own property.
The company has launched several campaigns this year to help buyers find homes that are move-in ready.
With fewer barriers to ownership, Aboitiz Land has made it easier for families to enjoy their dream homes or for investors to enter the market quickly.
“We want to help people find a home that’s ready for them or their future renters to move into.
With flexible payments and large discounts, we make it as easy as possible to own and live in your dream home,” Aboitiz Land said.
One of the more popular offers includes the 5/95 payment scheme, where buyers can pay only 5 percent upfront and the remaining 95 percent through a payment plan.
For homeowners, this lowers the cost of moving in. For investors, it means they can begin generating rental income almost immediately.
Across Aboitiz Land’s key developments, RFO homes offer
Its strategic location places residents near schools, hospitals, shopping centers, and major roads, including SLEX and STAR Tollway. Just a short drive from Metro Manila, homeowners benefit from both convenience and quality of life.
For those seeking a beachfront lifestyle, Seafront Residences in San Juan, Batangas offers a rare opportunity. Buyers can own a designer beach home or move into ready-built villas and condos suited for vacation living or short-term rentals. The seaside location and elegant design make it ideal for those who want both relaxation and investment returns.
RFO properties are also proving to be strong investment vehicles. Since their launch, Aboitiz Land’s communities have shown impressive value appreciation. Ajoya Cabanatuan has seen a 195 percent value increase, while Ajoya Capas rose by 95 percent. In Pampanga, values increased by 110 percent while Cebu’s Amoa, prices grew by 381 percent, and The Villages at LIMA, by 157 percent and Seafront Residences by 437 percent.
SHOWBIZ
Stars storm rallies as Filipinos rage flood control graft scandal
By Angelica Villanueva
CELEBRITIES from film, television, and music showed their support on Sunday, Sept. 21, as mass rallies in Metro Manila demanded accountability over alleged corruption in government flood control projects.
Ahead of the demonstrations, P-pop group SB19 posted a 34-second clip on X showing themselves singing along with “Kapangyarihan,” their 2021 collaboration with Ben&Ben, with the text, “nagsisilbi ka dapat.”
“Ang tao, ang bayan, ang tunay na kapangyarihan,” the post read.
Member Josh Cullen also shared a separate clip of him and the group’s leader, Pablo, singing the track, echoing the song’s message of people power and public service.
Paulo Avelino voiced his support on his Instagram Stories, saying that while he could not attend, he was backing the calls for accountability.
“Hindi man ako makakadalo sa rally laban sa korupsyon, buo ang suporta ko sa panawagan para sa pananagutan at malinis na pamamahala. Managot na dapat ang mga dapat managot. Makulong na ang lahat ng dapat makulong,” Paulo wrote.
Actress Janine Gutierrez also said she was “standing in solidarity with everyone in Luneta, EDSA, and other rallies against corruption.”
Angel Locsin, currently on hiatus from showbiz, also voiced her support on X.
Ang sa amin, galing sa hirap–ang sa inyo galing sa mahihirap,” she said. Meanwhile, award-winning actor Elijah Canlas joined protesters at the EDSA People Power Monument, where he delivered a speech calling for accountability.
“Lahat ng kasangkot dapat managot.
Niloloko lang nila tayo, mga sinungaling sila, ang gagaling pa umarte mga best actor, hindi po ba? Kung ibalik n’yo na lang kaya ang pera ng taong bayan?” he said, adding that it was inspiring to see both the youth and elderly in the crowd.
Kapamilya stars Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Ion Perez, Jackie Gonzaga, Donny Pangilinan, Darren Espanto, and Jasmine Curtis were also present at the EDSA rally.
In a post shared by Angat Buhay, the stars took time to join the Angat Bayanihan Volunteer Network for the “Trillion Peso March.”
At the simultaneous “Baha sa Luneta” protest in Rizal Park, director Joel Lamangan joined demonstrators and stressed vigilance against corruption.
Seasoned actress Angel Aquino spoke onstage, recalling her activism since her student days. Parang mas malala pa ang nangyayari, mas in our face nila ginagawa ang pagnanakaw nila,” she said.
“Ang daming nagugutom, ang daming walang bahay, ang daming nagkakasakit. Tapos ang daming nawawala na pera. Nakakaiyak,” Aquino stated in a separate interview at the venue.
Actresses Maris Racal and Jodi Sta. Maria were also present at the Luneta protest, with the Sunshine star leading the chant against corruption.
Earlier in the day, television host Kim Atienza joined actors Dingdong Dantes and Benjamin Alves in a 10-kilometer anti-corruption run at the Ayala Car-Free Sunday event. They wore shirts with slogans like “End Corruption Now” and “I Dream of a Corrupt-Free Philippines.”
“Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! Nakikiisa sa bansa para sa pagbabagong totoo,” Kuya Kim said in the caption.
“We hoped. We dreamed. For a corrupt-free Philippines. For accountability from those who have stolen from us. And for those attending the big rallies, we lifted them up in prayer as well,” he said in a separate post.
Organizers said the protests in EDSA and Luneta drew thousands, underscoring growing public pressure on officials to answer allegations in the flood control projects.
WITH artists from more than 20 countries and ambitions for a billion-plus viewers, Russia on Saturday revived its Intervision song contest, which Moscow hopes will compete with a “decadent” Eurovision.
First held in the Soviet era and relaunched in February on President Vladimir Putin’s orders, the concert-as-soft-power tool was held at an arena near the Russian capital, with Vietnamese singer Duc Phuc proclaimed the winner with a song inspired by a poem about bamboo. The performer, who won the Vietnamese version of reality TV series “The Voice” 10 years ago, emotionally thanked the audience “for every second” spent watching the competition, which lasted around four hours. The four-hour show featured 23 scheduled acts, though U.S. representative Vassy withdrew citing political pressure. No EU countries took part, but performers from allies including China, Brazil, India, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan joined. Other participants included Cuban singer Zulema Iglesias Salazar, Qatar’s Dana Al Meer, and Serbia’s Slobodan Trkulja. Russia’s entry, patriotic singer Shaman, declined to compete for the prize, citing the country’s “law of hospitality.” American rocker Joe Lynn Turner, formerly of Deep Purple, sat on the jury, which decided the winner. Organizers said the show’s potential audience spanned over half the world’s
Vietnamese singer Duc Phuc wins the revived Intervision Song Contest in Moscow with a performance inspired by a poem about bamboo
Kapamilya star Vice Ganda joins the rally against corruption at EDSA
TV host Kim Atienza (left) runs alongside Dingdong Dantes (center) and Benjamin Alves (right) in a 10-kilometer anti-corruption run
Celebrity couple Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos show their support for the ‘Trillion Peso March’ protest
Miss Universe 2018 Catriona joins thousand of Filipinos in fighting corruption
Actor Elijah Canlas delivers a speech at the EDSA rally, calling for accountability from officials linked to the graft scandal
Actress Maris Racal joins demonstrators at Luneta to fight against corruption
P-pop group SB19 shows solidarity ahead of the Sept. 21 rallies by singing ‘Kapangyarihan’ with the message ‘nagsisilbi ka dapat’
Actor Donny Pangilinan joins fellow celebrities at the anticorruption protests
LIFE & SHOWBIZ
Last man walking
By Chong Ardivilla
AHUNDRED years from now, when one studies American literature in this timeline of crumbling democracy and the frenzied right-wing, Stephen King will be explored with the scrutiny that he truly deserves.
King’s works may be classified in the US as drugstore literature because of his popularity and accessibility. Still, he proves to be a sybil of some sort regarding the downfall of the American dream. The latest film adaptation of his work, The Long Walk, is especially prescient in the current wasteland of American culture wars and the sacrificial bodies of their young men.
The movie is set in a dystopian America that emerged from an unnamed war, which reduced the vast country to desperate hunger and suffocating poverty. People have been arrested for reading problematic literature. This sounds so apocalyptic, but there is a swathe of banned books and lessons in the current American Trumpian wasteland.
of American masculine exceptionalism and sordid reality TV (never forget that Trump is a more successful reality TV host than a businessman). Young men are selected
from all fifty states to partake in the contest to prove who is the strongest.
The young men must walk at a speed of 3 miles per hour. If they falter or go by the wayside, they are warned, and if they do not correct their pace and position, they are shot. Whoever is the last man standing, er… walking, wins, and he gets to have his wish fulfilled. These sacrificial bodies are meant to inspire a nation.
The film is directed by Francis Lawrence, who worked on a related speculative American apocalypse with most of the Hunger Games movies. But The Long Walk does not suffer from a franchise heft of expectations. It is a stellar film that frames what happens to a nation in turmoil or at war in whatever location, where the poor young men are drafted to fight and be killed.
To walk nonstop (you are not allowed to rest or even sleep) is a test of resilience in an authoritarian system. We Filipinos are sadly all too familiar with the false blessing of resilience as a testament to the “Filipino Spirit.” Resilience is a myth fed to those with no choice left, thinking they are heroic in a system that has given them nothing and has taken everything.
The Long Walk, according to the ultra-conservative American echo chambers, bombed at the box office because of King’s snowballed prickly relationship
This movie is worth watching precisely because of King’s politics, because despite his numerous works of ghouls, the real monsters are men with too much power while holding assault weapons.
You may reach Chong Ardivilla at kartunistatonto@ gmail.com or chonggo.bsky.social
A NEW nightlife destination is set to open in Quezon City this September, as Solaire Resort North prepares to launch the Quezon Club, an exclusive venue combining dining, live performance, and nightlife entertainment. Named after its home city, long known for its ties to the entertainment and creative industries, the Quezon Club is billed as a refined space for music, theater-inspired acts, and reimagined cuisine.
a 10.7 percent cut in seat capacity. Domestic seat load factor, however, climbed 5.7 percentage points to 87.6 percent. Meanwhile, international traffic rose 13.3 percent year-on-year, supported by a 21.4 percent increase
in seat capacity. Seat load factor on international routes declined 5.3 points to 74.2 percent. For the first eight months of 2025, Cebu Pacific carried 18.1 million passengers, up 15.2 percent from 15.7 million in the same period last year. Domestic traffic grew 14 percent to 13.5 million, while international traffic rose 18.8 percent to 4.6 million.
Average seat load factor was 85.2 percent, with overall capacity increasing 15.1 percent to 21.3 million seats.
Chief executive officer Mike Szucs said the August dip reflected the lean travel season and adjustments in domestic capacity due to
aircraft maintenance and engine removals. He added that the airline expects traffic to rebound in the fourth quarter as the holiday peak season begins and more aircraft become available.
Cebu Pacific, the Philippines’ leading airline, entered the aviation industry in March 1996 and pioneered the low-cost carrier model in the country with its “low fare, great value” strategy. Since its launch, it has flown more than 250 million passengers.
The airline operates one of the youngest fleets in the world with 99 aircraft and offers the widest network coverage in the Philippines, serving 37 domestic and 26 international destinations.
CHEFS and mixologists from City of Dreams Manila won 11 medals in eight categories at the 2025 Philippine Culinary Cup, held alongside the World Food Expo at the SMX Convention Center. Now in its 15th year, the Philippine Culinary Cup is recognized as the country’s top culinary competition and is endorsed by the World Association of Chefs’ Societies. It follows international standards and brings together local and international culinary experts as judges.
Mary Anne Valderrama of Café Society took gold in the Chocolate Pastry Showpiece, while Lee Chia Lok of Season 88 won gold in the Taiwan Pork Bento and silver in the US Pork Asian Gourmet Chef Challenge. Silver medals also went to Dominic Joshua Hembrador and Mary Apple Delantar in Wedding Cakes, Paul John Zuniega in Bread Showpiece, Allan Mabras in Chocolate Pastry Showpiece, and Jiro Flora of Haliya in the Canada Beef “Back to Basics” category. She Chong Ngooi of Crystal Dragon won bronze in the Taiwan Pork Bento Box. In the bartending competition, CenterPlay’s Arvin Philip Rallos was named champion in Flairtending, while Prince Reinner Santos placed second in the Best in Cocktail category. City of Dreams Manila, which opened in 2015 in Parañaque, houses three hotel brands—Nüwa Manila, Nobu Hotel, and Hyatt Regency Manila—along with gaming facilities, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
TAAL Vista Hotel has been named a Tourism Pillar Awardee at the Department of Tourism’s first Philippine Tourism Awards, recognizing the property as one of the country’s enduring institutions in hospitality.
The awards ceremony was held Sept. 8 at Okada Manila as
part of the DOT’s 50th founding anniversary. General manager Ramon Makilan, director of sales and marketing Mary Rose Lomibao, and cluster marketing communications manager Faith Dimaano accepted the award on behalf of the Tagaytay hotel. The Tourism Pillar Award is a
Taal Vista Hotel named Tourism Pillar Awardee at Philippine Tourism Awards
one-time recognition honoring pioneers and trailblazers in the industry, including individuals with at least 35 years of service and establishments that have operated continuously for at least 50 years.
Founded in 1939, Taal Vista Hotel has been a fixture in Tagaytay for nearly nine decades, serving generations
Makilan said. The recognition comes as the hotel prepares to mark its 86th anniversary in 2025. Taal Vista Hotel is part of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., the hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings Inc., which manages 10 hotel properties nationwide, including Conrad Manila, Pico Sands Hotel, Radisson Blu Cebu, and several Park Inn by Radisson locations, along with the SMX Convention Centers.
The first Philippine Tourism Awards
THE icons, leaders, prime movers, and stakeholders of our country’s tourism industry recently gathered at the huge ballroom of Okada Manila for the first-ever Philippine Tourism Awards hosted by our Department of Tourism.
Outstanding personalities from both the private and public sectors involved in the development and promotion of our tourism industry were given due recognition for excellence in their respective fields of endeavor.
The carefully selected group of winners began with 353 nominees across various categories, eventually narrowing down to 102 finalists, from which the stellar list of winners was chosen.
During her keynote speech, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco applauded the finalists and the winners as they “carry the stories of our communities, the hopes of our families, and the honor of our nation.” She further expressed her wish that our tourism industry “will continue to be a wellspring of hope, unity, and pride in our identity as Filipinos.”
I liked it when she further addressed the awardees by saying, “You are proof that the Filipino spirit of hospitality, innovation, and perseverance can carry our nation forward. Today, we honor you, but in truth, it is our country that is honored by your work.”
Having been involved with our tourism industry for the past 55 years of my life, this heartfelt message hit me right to the core and further strengthened my resolve to do what I can for our industry.
The first set of awards was for the “Tourism Pillar” enterprises, subdivided into Travel and Tour Agencies: Marsman Drysdale Travel, Rajah Travel, Baron Travel, and Travel Services; Resorts: Baguio Country Club, Chali Resort and Conference Center, and Mambukal Resort; Hotels: Embassy Hotel, Grand Astoria Hotel, Hotel del Rio, Montebello Villa Hotel, Taal Vista Hotel, The Boac Hotel, Apo View Hotel, Davao Insular Hotel, De Luxe Hotel, and The VIP Hotel. Awards were also given to “Tourism Pillar” Individuals, subdivided into MICE Professionals: Ma. Cristina Capistrano, Elizabeth de la Fuente, Dexter Deyto, Ma. Lourdes Lagandaon, Ma. Irene Lloren, Marisa Nallana, Patrick Lawrence Tan, and Mary Ann Montemayor; Allied
Professionals: Joji Bian and George Tapan; Travel and Tour Operators: Alejandra Clemente, Macrina Fuentes, Alice Queblatin, Lourdes Sultan, Paul Lim So, Cesar Cruz, Jose Luis Yulo, and Yolanda Wong; Tour Guides: Bienvenido Claravall, Cecilia Duran, Mary Ann Imbong, Danilo Montenejo, Dolores Salamanca, and Pedro Young; Hoteliers: Anthony de Leon, Arthur Lopez, and Adelfa Pace. Posthumous Awards were given to Josefa Aquino, Jaime Barrientos, and Yvette Lee.
The Tourism Pillar Excellence Awardees were Philippine Airlines, The Manila Hotel, Philippine Travel Agencies Association, and the University of the PhilippinesAsian Institute of Tourism. Awards were also given to Media: Pinas Sarap (Travel Show), Lost Juan (Tourism and Travel Vlog), and Erwin Mascariñas
for Tourism Journalism; and to Outstanding Individuals: Joseph Estrada for Community Tour Guide, Ma. Lorena Guba for Regional Tour Guide, and Shauna Indra Salina Curran for Tourism Frontliner. Tourism Industry Excellence Awards were given to Cebu Pacific and Megaworld Hotels and Resorts.
Institutional Awards were also given to: Southwest Tours Boracay, MAD for Social Tourism, MarangMarang Women’s Association, Philippine International Convention Center, Professional Organizers Unlimited, Dapdap Sunset Grill, Puerto Pension Inn, and Greenleaf Hotel.
Product Awards were given to: The Farm at San Benito for Filipino Brand of Wellness Enterprise, Real Great English Corp. for ESL School, Cebu City for ESL Destination, Ephrathah Farms for Farm Tourism, Ticao Island Dive and Resort for Dive Operator, Puerto Galera for Dive Destination, Puerto Princesa for Cruise Destination, Sta. Cruz, Laguna for Food and Gastronomy Destination, Isabel de Basilan for Living Cultures Destination, Las Piñas Bamboo Organ for Arts Destination, Manila’s Quiapo Church for FaithBased Destination, Camiguin for Eco-Tourism Destination, Bolinao for Municipality Tourism Destination, Sipalay for City Tourism Destination, and Bohol for Province Tourism Destination.
MONDAY CHUCKLE
or apathy
It was indeed a glorious night for our country’s Tourism Industry, as the radiant smiles of everybody in the venue signified the relentless dynamism and energy of our Industry’s stakeholders as we continue to move toward an even brighter future. For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@ gmail.com
OVER 200 tourism merchants from across the country attended the inaugural Klook Partner Awards in the Philippines. With 16 winning categories, a total of 42 Filipino companies were recognized for their outstanding performance, showcasing the beauty of the Philippine islands and executing successful collaborations with the travel platform.
Klook executives said the partnerships have helped strengthen the industry and expand access to Filipino destinations.
Eric Gnock Fah, Klook’s president and co-founder, credited local operators for the company’s success. “This event was organized to celebrate the operators on the ground that deliver all these amazing experiences and services to travelers locally and around the world,” he said. Michelle Ho, Klook Philippines general manager, said the company is the country’s most trusted travel app, covering more than 99 cities. She cited
steady growth in attractions, hotels, and mobility, noting that the platform plans to build new networks to further promote domestic tourism. The Department of Tourism welcomed the initiative, with Assistant Secretary Sharlene Zabala-Batin commending Klook and its partners for contributing to innovation and sustainable growth. “Your dedication, creativity, and commitment to excellence inspire us to keep moving forward,” she said.
Sixteen categories were awarded, with Enchanted Kingdom named Best of the Philippines – Attractions, The Henann Group of Resorts recognized in the hotels category, and Southwest Tours honored in mobility. Hotel101 Group was also recognized among hotel partners.
Executives from the winning companies highlighted innovation, stronger online presence, and wider reach as key benefits of their partnerships with Klook.
Taal
From left: Cluster marketing communications manager Faith Dimaano, general manager Ramon Makilan, and director of sales and marketing Mary Rose Lomibao accept the Tourism Pillar Award for Taal Vista Hotel
Klook president and co-founder
speaking at the Partner Awards
Ho, general manager of Klook Philippines, welcomes guests at the event
Karl Hendrik Chusuey (second from the left) and Isabel Lee (center) represent the Henann Group of Resorts in receiving recognition
Bohol is the recipient of a Tourism Destination (Province) award
Southwest Tours Boracay receives an Institutional Award from DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco with Usecs. Verna Buensuceso and Rica Bueno
Lost Juan Travel and Tourism Vlog is honored with a Media Excellence Award
Soprano Lara Maigue delivers a performance as part of the evening’s program Taal Vista Hotel is recognized as a