Manila Standard - 2025 September 29 - Monday

Senators insert over P100b

Ping reveals how colleagues hid insertions in 2025 budget

By Ram Superable

SENATE President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson yesterday revealed that almost all senators inserted more than ₱100 billion worth of projects into the proposed 2025 national budget.

Lacson, who also chairs the Blue Ribbon panel, said the insertions were categorized as “For Later Release” or “FLR” items, which means they are individual allocations tagged for implementation at a later date.

“It is enormous. I’ve never seen anything like this because back in the day, before the PDAF was declared unconstitutional, it was only in the hundreds of millions. But now I’ve seen the total,

Mass held for FMs’ 36th death anniversary

By Vince Lopez

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. on Sunday together with his family members and supporters remembered the 36th death anniversary of the family’s patriarch, former President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos, Sr.

Mr. Marcos attended a memorial Mass at the Immaculate Conception Parish in his hometown Batac,

Vetted flood projects to proceed—Marcos

PRESIDENT Marcos has given assurance that implementation of fully compliant flood control projects will go on, saying more than P300 billion are available to bankroll these initiatives until next year.

“So, hindi pa nauubos ‘yun. So, tuluy-tuloy pa rin ang magiging flood control projects hanggang sa susunod na taon (It’s not yet depleted. Flood control projects will continue until next year),” the President said.

“We will approve the flood control projects provided they are in order—the proposal, program of work, completion is satisfactory, and there is acceptance by the local government. That’s the factor that we put it,” Marcos said.

Ilocos Norte. He was accompanied by close family, relatives and Marcos loyalists, who gathered to honor the legacy of his late father.

In a brief message posted by the President on his social media pages, he reflected on his father’s enduring influence.

“Remembering my father, Apo Lakay, on his 36th death anniversary. His memory and his dreams re -

By Pot Chavez

MORE individuals may be included in the ongoing case build-up being conducted by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in connection to the anomalous flood control projects in the country.

“In the future, yes, it is a process, we have to evaluate. This is not the end of it, probably next Saturday we will still be here, we will be back,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla told reporters over the weekend.

Contractors Cezarah “Sarah” and Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya earlier returned to the DOJ on Saturday for the continuation of the evaluation of their testimony. Among the pieces of evidence submitted by

the Discayas were ledgers, computer notes, and previous statements requested by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee.

Last week, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) recommended the prosecution of 21 individuals for case build-up with the National Prosecution Service (NPS).

The list includes Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co, Senators Francis Escudero, Joel Villanueva, and Jinggoy Estrada.

Other individuals named were former Senator Bong Revilla, Usec. Mitch Cajayon-Uy, former DPWH Engineers Henry Alcantara, Brice Hernandez, and Jaypee Mendoza, as well as former Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, Engr. Arjay Domasig, Maynard Ngu,

By Rio N. Araja and Rex Espiritu

THE Bicol Region bore the brunt of recent storms, with nearly 840,000 residents affected and widespread damage reported in Masbate following the onslaught of Typhoon Opong.

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), 837,427 individuals—or 221,873 families—were impacted in Bicol alone, making it the hardest-hit region. Masbate sustained severe damage as strong winds and heavy rains battered homes, the provincial airport, and key

infrastructure before the storm exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Saturday.

Initial government assessments showed that thousands of families were forced to flee their homes, with 9,630 families, or 38,272 people, directly affected in Masbate. At least 8,916 houses were reported damaged across multiple regions, while agricultural losses nationwide have already topped ₱1 billion. Civil Defense Deputy Administrator for Administration Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV visited Masbate on Sun-

Dutch law forbids disclosure of Rody’s condition, says Conti

By Ma. Katrina Mikaela Manubay

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Sunday said minors involved in the violent anti-corruption protests last Sept. 21 should undergo rehabilitation and counselling. PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. issued the statement following the release of 55 minors and 25 adults who were apprehended amid the disturbance during the demonstrations. “The PNP respects due process and the rule of law. The release of the minors and adults involved was in accordance with established legal procedures, particularly the provisions of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act,” Nartatez said in a statement.

FIESTA CARACOL. Young girls dressed up as angels perform a dance number during the Fiesta Caracol held on the feast of San Miguel Archangel in Bacoor City. Dennis Abrina

BLOWN OFF. An aerial survey yesterday by the Office of Civil Defense in Masbate shows the roof of a building blown away by ‘Opong’s strong winds. Civil Defense Bicol Region 5

it’s at least ₱100 billion,” he said.

The veteran lawmaker said the ₱100 billion figure reflects only the Senate, noting he has not yet reviewed the insertions made by members of the House of Representatives.

He revealed plans to question agency heads during budget deliberations about how such large allocations were allowed to pass through the process.

“I want to know how many of the inserted items were released and how they were implemented,” Lacson said.

While insertions or amendments are not automatically illegal, the senator said the amounts ranging from ₱5 billion to ₱9 billion per project raise serious questions.

He urged lawmakers to exercise restraint in pushing for locally funded projects, not only within the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) but also in agencies such as the Department of Education and the Department of Transportation.

Lacson added that the Senate cannot deny the damage caused by allegations of kickbacks involving current and former members.

He said reforms should begin with

the

2026 budget, which is now under deliberation.

Meanwhile, Bicol Saro Rep. Terry Ridon fired back at Cibac party-list Rep. Eddie Villanueva, after the latter threatened to bring down the wrath of god on him for investigating his son.

“I mean, Senator Joel [Villanueva] might really be sent to prison. Brother Eddie, even if you curse me,” the House Public Accounts Committee chairman said in Filipino.

Ridon pointed out that dismissed DPWH engineers Henry Alcantara and Brice Hernandez, both of whom confessed to being key players in a “trillion-peso” corruption scheme, im-

plicated the younger Villanueva as a beneficiary of their illicit money-making operations.

In an earlier sermon, Villanueva unleashed a verbal attack on Ridon for saying the televangelist’s son has to answer allegations that he accepted kickbacks from anomalous infrastructure projects.

“Our lawyers might not be able to get to you [on time]… Remember this, boy… You think you can escape the wrath of God? Be thankful because Bro. Eddie is born again,” said the elder Villanueva, who founded the Jesus is Lord Church (JIL) Worldwide ministries.

Carleen Villa, John Carlo Rivera, Linda Macanas, Juanito Mendoza, Sally Santos, Jesse Mahusay, alias “Beng Ramos”, and alias “Mina”, alias “Andrei Balatbat”.

The recommendation stemmed from the sworn testimonies of Bernardo, Alcantara, Hernandez, and Mendoza.

Meanwhile, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) yesterday announced that its hearings will not be livestreamed to avoid external influences from affecting the proceedings’ integrity.

“Currently, the ICI hearings are not live-streamed. This is the present policy of the commission. The initial hearings, so far, are for purposes of case build-up for criminal, civil, and administrative action,” ICI executive director Brian Keith Hosaka said in a statement.

“The ICI is avoiding trial by publicity, and will not allow it to be used for any political leverage or agenda by any individual or group,” he added. Nonetheless, Hosaka said that the Commission will study ways to address the public’s clamor for greater transparency.

“The commission is aware of the request of the public for the live-streaming of the hearings. I will discuss this matter with the commission for a solution that will both balance the request for more transparency and the protection of individual rights,” he assured.

Only flood control projects that meet all necessary requirements will be allowed to proceed, the President said, emphasizing his commitment to curbing irregularities in the implementation of infrastructure projects.

During an aid distribution in Gonzaga, Cagayan, Marcos said flood control projects will only be implemented if the proposal and program of work are properly prepared and have clearance from the local government units (LGUs).

The Chief Executive lamented however, the scrapping of the requirement for LGUs to formally accept national infrastructure projects, a process which he said helps ensure transparency and accountability.

Marcos earlier restored the policy requiring LGUs to formally accept projects before they are declared completed.

He attributed the prevalence of substandard and non-existent flood control projects to the removal of the LGU’s participation in the setup.

“The problem is, this requirement was removed some years ago. I’m not sure exactly when, but I was surprised because it’s very important to have clearance from the barangay chairman, the mayor and the provincial government. This is how we ensure that projects are properly executed, done right and not overly expensive),” Marcos said.

“From now on, we will restore the process of acceptance by local government executives,” he added.

The President said he has also ordered the realignment of the P255.5 billion originally intended for flood control projects in 2026 to fund the priority programs of other government agencies.

“If we did not do that, the P255.5 billion could have been wasted in various places,” he noted.

main with me always,” he said.

Last September 11, the President commemorated his father’s 108th birth anniversary by calling on Filipinos to live lives defined by public

service, sacrifice, and the defense of national dignity—values which he said best honor the memory of the former leader.

The senior Marcos died at the age of 72 on September 28, 1989 at St. Francis Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii, due to various ailments including systemic lupus erythemato -

sus and kidney disorder. He was also reported to have heart and lung disease, pneumonia and bacterial infections.

The Marcos family settled in Hawaii after the late strongman was ousted during the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution, which in turn installed former President Corazon Aquino.

her family had received “credible” information that former president Rodrigo Duterte had to undergo laboratory tests “after being found unconscious on the floor of his room.”

“The family was not informed of the ‘accident,’ and no explanation was given. These alarming developments raise grave concerns about the capacity of the ICC to guarantee the security and safety of FPRRD (former president Duterte),” she Said.

“Even the most basic care for the complaint of an ingrown toenail— easily treatable—cannot be done swiftly. The ICC has persistently ignored the clear need for a 24-hour bedside caregiver.”

In a Facebook post, Conti emphasized that the ICC will not be influenced by propaganda or public clamor.

“Duterte’s health condition should be properly and formally transmitted to the court by his legal team. It should also be closely monitored by the ICC detention facility medical team,” she said.

“Duterte’s coterie of family, friends, and advisers—especially those with no current or direct access to Duterte— should understand that the ICC as an institution is not typically swayed by either propaganda or public clamor,” she added.

He said the PNP ensured that those apprehended were turned over to the appropriate authorities, and that the safety and rights of everyone involved were protected.

The Manila city prosecutor’s office referred the cases of the 55 minors to the Manila Department of Social Welfare (MDSW).

The MDSW required them to undergo community service by joining the

clean-up drives of the city government as part of their “rehabilitation, reintegration and diversion.”

The prosecutor labelled them as “children in conflict with the law,” facing charges of illegal assembly, direct assault and malicious mischief under the Revised Penal Code.

Nartatez said while accountability must be upheld, rehabilitation and proper guidance should also be part of the process.

The PNP urged parents, guardians and local officials to play an active role in guiding young people and preventing similar incidents in the future.

For the 25 adult protesters, Nartatez directed investigators to coordinate closely with the prosecutors to ensure that charges are properly filed and supported with complete documentation.

Meanwhile, the National Union of People’s Lawyers (NUPL) confirmed that the city prosecutor directed the release of 25 adults detained by the Manila Police District stations in Moriones, Sampaloc and Barbosa.

“This development underscores that their detention since Sept. 21 clearly violated Article 125 of the Revised Penal Code, which limits warrantless de -

tention to 36 hours,” the NUPL said in a statement.

The group reiterated its “urgent call for the release of all (people) arrested during the Sept. 21 protest rallies, including those belatedly subjected to inquest on Sept. 23.

“The government’s persistence in keeping them in custody, in open defiance of Article 125, is far more than a procedural lapse – it strikes at the very foundation of constitutional freedoms,” the NUPL said. According to previous reports, 244 people were arrested by the police during the unrest, 91 of them minors.

day to inspect the destruction and meet with local leaders. He identified three immediate priorities: restoring power and telecommunications, and providing shelter repair kits for displaced families.

Masbate Governor Richard Kho said it could take at least a month to restore electricity across the province, citing estimates from the Masbate Electric Cooperative, Inc. He described Opong as the strongest typhoon to hit the province, saying that while preparations were made, officials “did not expect the damage to be this bad because of the strong winds.”

Aid from the national government has begun arriving in towns, while roadclearing operations continue. Meanwhile, recovery efforts are also underway in Oriental Mindoro, where the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) recorded 39 injuries, two missing persons, and widespread property damage. At least 241 houses were destroyed and 1,465 partially damaged in the towns of Bansud, Puerto Galera, Baco, Bongabong, San Teodoro, and Pola. The storm affected 43,815 families, or 142,044 individuals, across the province.

Alejandro assured residents that food supplies remain stable, with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) prepositioning family

food packs. About ₱8 million worth of food and non-food aid from the DSWD and the Office of Civil Defense have already been distributed. Still, officials admitted that restoring electricity, communications, and housing remain the most urgent challenges. Alejandro, Kho, and DSWD officials also visited evacuation centers to check on displaced families. Nationwide, the combined effects of Typhoon Opong and the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) have left 26 people dead, 33 injured, and 14 missing. Nearly 2.8 million individuals have been affected across the country, with 53 cities and municipalities declaring a state of calamity.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geo -

physical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said two to four tropical cyclones are expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility in October. Weather specialist Robert Badrina noted that these would be the 16th to 19th cyclones for the year, as the July-to-October period marks the peak of the typhoon season, when nearly 70 percent of all typhoons develop. Despite Opong’s exit, PAGASA warned that thunderstorms and rain showers may still affect parts of the country, though generally fair weather is expected on Monday as the easterlies persist. Metro Manila and other areas will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms.

WARM WELCOME. DOH-BUCAS employees and healthcare workers from the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center in Batac, Ilocos Norte hold signs bearing the words ‘Thank You’ as a gesture of appreciation for the programs of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., who is popularly known by his initials ‘PBBM,’ to the health sector. Presidential Communications Office

PBBM touts zero balance billing in Batac hospital visit

By Vince Lopez

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday highlighted his administration’s commitment to universal healthcare during his visit to the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center in Batac, Ilocos Norte, where he underscored the implementation of the zero balance billing policy.

Dr. Jose B. Orosa III, Chief of Medical Professional Staff II, along with other hospital staff and patients, welcomed Marcos, who visited the Oncology, Internal Medicine, and

Family Medicine wards and witnessed the discharge of patients covered by the policy.

Among the beneficiaries were a 21-year-old treated for severe

leptospirosis, a 74-year-old with multiple conditions including metabolic encephalopathy and chronic anemia, and a 56-year-old who completed treatment for post-infectious parkinsonism and meningitis.

Mr. Marcos also visited the Kangaroo Mother Care and Neonatal Intensive Care Units, emphasizing his focus on maternal, child, and critical care services.

According to Orosa, more than 400 in-patients at the hospital are expected to benefit from the zero balance billing policy on September 28, 2025.

A total of 61,524 patients have

already benefited under the Marcos administration, with hospitalization costs amounting to ₱1.43 billion fully covered. To extend support, the Office of the President distributed 2,076 meals to patients, guardians, and hospital staff, while the provincial government of Ilocos Norte provided 1,800 food packs. House Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos also distributed 750 sacks of rice. The Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital remains a premier tertiary government hospital serving Northern Luzon.

PH highlights peacebuilding in UN Security Council bid

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippines formally reaffirmed its bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027–2028 term, with Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro underscoring Manila’s commitment to advancing global peace and amplifying the voices of developing nations.

In her address at the 80th Session of

IN BRIEF

DOLE provides aid to former rebels

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has distributed livelihood starter kits worth nearly P30,000 each to 14 former rebels during the South Cotabato FR and Former Violent Extremists Summit in Cotabato City.

The support was provided by DOLE Region 12 in partnership with the 38th Infantry Brigade, Charlie Company of the Philippine Army, and the Lake Sebu National High School Multipurpose Cooperative. Starter kits include tools for vegetable gardening, car wash, vulcanizing, barbershop, and grass cutting businesses. These aim to help beneficiaries earn income and support their families as they reintegrate into society. Company executive officer 2LT Jusobem Agucay thanked DOLE for its continuous support to former rebels. Beneficiaries also expressed gratitude for the government’s assistance and vowed not to return to the mountains.

DOLE also profiled 70 other former rebels and extremists at the summit to assess their needs and link them to other government programs. Vito Barcelo Soldiers, NPA clash in Oriental Mindoro

GOVERNMENT troops clashed with suspected New People’s Army fighters in Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro, on Thursday morning, the Army reported. Lt. Col. Jeffrex Molina, spokesperson for the 2nd Infantry Division, said the encounter happened in Sitio Banayong, Barangay Manaul, after residents reported armed men allegedly extorting from communities.

The firefight lasted about 10 minutes before the rebels withdrew. One soldier sustained minor injuries and is now in stable condition.

Bloodstains were found at the site, indicating possible enemy casualties. Troops also recovered a firearm, a generator set, a drone, a body camera, an Android tablet, and other war materiel. Rex Espiritu

Taiwanese arrested for illegal entry in PH

the UN General Assembly, Lazaro said the Philippines’ bid reflects its “depth of experience earned from our struggles for peace,” pointing to the success of peacebuilding efforts in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao as proof that inclusive dialogue can transform conflict into progress.

“Peacebuilding, though sometimes arduous and long, gives communities their rightful future,” she said. Lazaro also called for reforms in the international development financing system, pressing for a stronger role for developing countries in decision-making. She urged developed nations to fulfill their climate finance obligations and for multilateral development banks to act with greater accountability. Lazaro reaffirmed Manila’s adherence to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 arbitral ruling on the South China Sea while condemning illegal, coercive actions against Filipino vessels.

PhilHealth pushes wider access to rabies care package

By Ram Superable

PHILHEALTH marked World Rabies Day on Sunday by urging the public to vaccinate pets and use its treatment package against the deadly disease.

The observance highlights rabies risks and promotes vaccination and animal care as key defenses.

Rabies remains one of the most fatal yet preventable viral infections, transmitted through bites and scratches from infected animals. Health experts stress that timely vaccination of pets, especially dogs and cats, is the most effective way to protect households and communities.

PhilHealth said preventing rabies is

both a personal responsibility and a public health priority. To expand access to care, it offers an Animal Bite Treatment package covering post-exposure needs. The package provides financial coverage of up to ₱5,850 for individuals bitten or exposed to potentially rabid animals. It includes vaccines, immune globulin if necessary, wound care, tetanus shots, antibiotics, and other supplies.

Available in more than 700 accredited health facilities nationwide, the package complements public vaccination campaigns. PhilHealth also urged households to prioritize pet vaccination as the first line of defense against rabies infection.

Hansley A. Juliano, a political science lecturer at Ateneo de Manila University, said winning a seat would enhance Manila’s diplomatic profile. The Philippines last held a UNSC seat in 2004–2005. The UNSC remains the UN’s most powerful body, with five permanent members—China, France, Russia, the UK, and the US—holding veto power.

A TAIWANESE national who entered the country through the “backdoor” was arrested in Baguio City for illegal entry, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported. The foreigner was identified as Cheng Chin-Pang, who was caught by the Regional Intelligence Operations Unit–Cordillera and local police in Sto. Tomas Road, Green Valley, Dontogan. Cheng admitted entering the country last year via Tawi-Tawi, boarding a boat from Malaysia and eventually traveling to Manila without proper immigration clearance.

Authorities said Cheng violated the Philippine Immigration Act and will face deportation proceedings.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stressed the bureau’s commitment to stopping illegal entry, saying undocumented foreigners will be arrested, deported, and banned from returning. Vito Barcelo

Gatchalian vows to block AKAP funding, others

SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Sunday said he will oppose the funding of programs he considers ill-conceived, including the Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), as deliberations on the 2026 national budget continue.

Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate finance committee, warned that funneling money into poorly designed programs wastes taxpayer resources and undermines social protection for those who need it most.

“We want programs that are well studied, with a feasibility study, so that we know the impact for sure,” he said. During a recent budget hearing, he questioned the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s request for AKAP funding.

He cited internal data showing beneficiaries were concentrated in areas with relatively lower poverty, while communities with higher poverty incidence received less coverage.

“The sad part is, the program is redundant, the money is wasted, and it even becomes inefficient,” Gatchalian said. He noted that AKAP overlapped with the existing Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program, creating duplication and draining resources.

Under the 2026 spending plan, AICS funding was cut by 40 percent, or about ₱17.7 billion. Instead of approving money for AKAP, Gatchalian said he would prioritize restoring AICS funding to ensure efficient delivery of aid. Ram Superable

The Philippine Military Academy participates in the International Nautical Training 2025, hosted by the German Naval Academy Murwik.

SEAFARERS’ JOB FAIR. Jobseekers crowd the National Seafarers’ Day Jobs Fair in Manila, where 20 manning agencies o er more than 2,000 jobs. Norman Cruz

JAGNA PROCESSION. The Coast Guard and local rescue groups provide safety and security during the St. Michael Archangel fluvial procession in Jagna, Bohol.

Micro-lending program rolled out for SSS members, OFWs

By Rio N. Araja

IN BRIEF

bers,” especially those vulnerable to predatory lending practices.

needs of the national workforce, including overseas Filipino workers.

The

complaints over alleged unfair charges and unreliable water supply by PrimeWater.

Earlier this month, President Marcos stressed that the government’s actions against PrimeWater were not linked to his ties with the Villar family of Las Piñas City who owns the company. The President addressed the issue during his podcast, saying the administration’s priority was to ensure reliable access to efficient water and electricity supply nationwide.

“Nothing is personal. They are my friends and I respect them, but we have to fix the problem. For me, the point is simply that we need to solve the problem,” Marcos said.

The statement came alongside the administration’s decision to disenfranchise Siquijor Island Power Corp., another Villar-owned utility, due to persistent blackouts in the island province.

The Energy Regulatory Commission revoked SIPCOR’s permit to operate for alleged violations of contractual obligations.

The government has since expanded its review to include PrimeWater, citing the volume of complaints received from customers across the country.

TPAMPANGA First District Rep. Carmelo Lazatin Jr. has publicly disclosed the contents of his Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) to manifest transparency and solidarity with colleagues at the House of Representatives. Lazatin said his SALN disclosure was in response to a challenge by Speaker Faustino D III to government officials, especially legislators to declare their assets and liabilities amid the raging flood control scandal.

“I am publicly disclosing my SALN in response to the people’s clamor for transparency and in solidarity with my colleagues in the House of Representatives who have also done the same,” Lazatin said.

“Public office is a public trust. With the recent issues surrounding anomalous infrastructure projects, we have seen an erosion of the public’s confidence in our officials and institutions. The public disclosure of government officials’ SALNs is one small step toward slowly rebuilding that trust and confidence,” he added. Butch Gunio

HE Taguig City police have arrested the two suspects in a shooting incident on Wednesday, Sept.24, in Barangay Sta. Ana, this city that left two victims, including a minor, seriously injured.. Initial investigation showed that the victims, identified as Jesus Abisia, 26, and a 13-year-old minor, were standing on the curb when the suspects identified as Charles Catalan, and Dexter Mangampo accosted them, then opened fire for no apparent reason, hitting both victims in the feet. The gunmen fled aboard a motorcycle without a license plate number. However, the police were able to trace their whereabouts through CCTV, leading to the arrests the following day. On interrogation, Catalan confessed to the crime and tagged Mangampo, 23, as his accomplice. Vince Lopez

Pampanga legislator publicly bares SALN Taguig police arrest two shooting suspects OPAPRU cops award for gender budgeting

THE Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) has cited the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) as one of the top national agencies in Gender and Development (GAD) budget allocation and spending. During the awarding ceremony on Sept. 25 at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria in Quezon City, OPAPRU ranked fifth in clientfocused GAD budget allocation and third in client-focused GAD budget expenditures. Susana Guadalupe Marcaida, executive director of the Peace Sustainability Cluster and Women, Peace and Security Center of Excellence, accepted the recognition on behalf of OPAPRU. Marcaida also serves as executive committee head of OPAPRU’s GAD Focal Point System. Officials

HE Social Security System (SS) has announced the launch of SSS LoanLite described as a groundbreaking micro-lending program powered by Union Bank of the Philippines.

The initiative is designed to provide “accessible, secure, and affordable credit to millions of SSS mem-

“We’ll be launching something new — a micro loan program for our members powered by UnionBank. This will really help each Filipino members of SSS, not to fall victims to loan sharks,” SSS president and chief executive officer Robert Joseph de Claro said in a statement.

During the recent Serbisyong NextGen – Celebrating 40 Years of SSS and UnionBank Partnership, De Claro and UnionBank president and CEO Ana Aboitiz Delgado led the ceremonial unveiling of the SSS LoanLite.

The lending program offers shortterm loans with of 15 to 90 days, meant to meet the urgent financial

The program is part of SSS’s broader digitalization and financial inclusion strategy, ensuring that members can access credit without falling prey to loan sharks.

The plan is to grow the loan book for SSS LoanLite to P40-B within the next two years.

“Through our partnership with UnionBank, we are taking a bold step toward protecting our members from exploitative lending and enhancing their access to responsible financial services,” De Claro said.

“SSS LoanLite is more than just a loan — it’s a lifeline for our members during times of need,” he added.

SOME 955,000 public school teachers across the country are bound to receive ₱1,000cash incentive each in celebration of World Teachers’ Day on Sunday, Oct. 5, according to House Assistant Minority Leader and Eastern Samar Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales.

“The ₱955 million funding for this year’s WTDIB (World Teachers’ Day Incentive benefit) is line-itemized in the 2025 General Appropriations Law, with a special provision to guarantee its timely release,” Gonzales said in a statement. Gonzales is a member of the House committees on appropriations and basic education and culture.

“We assure our teachers that this incentive will remain a priority every year. In fact, we’ve filed a bill seeking to enhance the benefit,” he said. Gonzales and House Minority Leader

Marcelino Libanan filed early on House Bill 4531 which seeks to triple the WTDIB, giving every public school teacher a ₱3,000 cash gift on World Teachers’ Day.

“The proposed higher benefit is not merely an incentive but a clear expression of our nation’s gratitude. Public school teachers are the backbone of our education system. They deserve recognition not just in words but through tangible support,” Gonzales said.

The bill would also make permanent the WTDIB that Congress first granted to public school teachers six years ago through a simple line-item insertion in the General Appropriations Law of 2019.

World Teachers’ Day, celebrated every Oct. 5 since 1994 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), honors the vital role of teachers in shaping societies.

SPEAKER Faustino Dy III on Saturday met with his farmer-constituents during a strategic forum in Isabela province in a bid to resolve their pressing agricultural concerns.

During the dialogue held at the Isabela Convention Center in Cauayan City, Dy underscored the critical challenges facing the agricultural sector, emphasizing government programs and budget allocations meant to ensure rice availability and support for local farmers.

The Speaker said the issues raised over the past month, particularly concerning the National Food Authority, required immediate attention.

Dy said it was essential for the farmers’ concerns to reach President Marcos, adding that the interaction provided a platform to explore practical solutions through collaborations.

The forum brought together key stakeholders, including provincial agriculturist Sergio Galamgan, city and municipal agriculturists, leaders of Irrigators Associations and Farmers’ Cooperatives, mayors and other city officials.

Dy detailed plans to expand storage and distribution infrastructure, addressing reports of low-priced wet palay and highlighting operational drying facilities in Cabagan, Echague, Cauayan and San Mariano.

Additional facilities are planned to improve accessibility for farmers across all six districts of Isabela.

The Speaker called for strengthened coordination with provincial agencies and the Department of Social Welfare and Department to support tens of thousands of farmers, citing the province has over 119,000 registered farmers.

Under the 2026 proposed national budget, cash assistance and crop insurance would be made allocated to effectively address the farmers’ concerns, Dy said. Rio N. Araja

DOGS GO TO HEAVEN. Gen. Trias City parish priest Fr. Oliver Genuino blesses hundreds of pets, mostly dogs, in celebration of the feast of St. Francis of Assisi in conjunction with the observance of World Rabies Day. Dennis Abrina

OPINION

IT IS the fixation over 2028 that has brought us into this sordid state of the nation.

A web of mind-boggling corruption has wrought so much havoc upon the future of our next generations who will inherit a crippling public debt, even as their quality of life suffers each day from poor governance and the high costs of surviving. 2028 must belong to the present family, not to the Inday Sara Duterte they duped into joining them in 2022 to achieve electoral victory.

Having reached the top, it became convenient to kick the ladder, so only the favored in the family will continue to reign.

Imelda thought similarly in 1981, when her husband falsely proclaimed the end of martial law, and in his re-inaugural after sham election, a choir sang Handel’s Messiah with its refrain “and he shall reign forever and ever.” That was cut short in 1986, when colonels and those below mutinied and sparked a “people power” revolution that became the Western world’s darling for a brief shining moment, just as the “usual” -- the traditional ways of politics took over.

Cory merely returned the forms of democracy -- space without social and economic substance.

Trapos among Cory’s political brood “managed” the transition between revolutionary fervor and “normalcy,” which was nothing more than a return to the “good old days” prior to martial law.

In fairness, those old ways were at least marked by some level of decency, yet gradually increasing levels of corruption morphed thereafter.

Vote-buying which started in Caraga in the early sixties when filthy rich loggers were raping its forests soon became a nationwide practice, and electoral contests became a battle of whoever had a larger pile of money to win a congressional seat, a governorship, a city mayoralty.

Wily businessmen whose operations required regulatory capture to earn oodles of profits cashed in, first by “donating” to the campaign kitty of trapos and, later, “owning” political parties themselves in a stupid system authored by well-meaning but largely short-sighted men and women via the 1987 Constitution where multiple flags of convenience including sham party-lists joined the gravy train.

The Villars bought the Nacionalista Party from the Laurels. Danding Cojuangco formed the Nationalist People’s Coalition as vehicle for his failed presidential bid, then continued to nurture it to protect business interests.

Enrique Razon joined the fray through his National Unity Party after the fall of Erap in 2001. FVR’s 1992 vehicle, a contraption formed between his Lakas Tao and the NUCD, survived through the years depending on who was in power,

or who funded its existence.

Political parties reigned, and then slumbered, depending on who sat in Malacanang. Politicians from senator to congressmen to LGU officials changed parties as often as they switched from barong to tailored suits.

Party-listed banners intended for the “marginalized” groups were sold to dynasts and contractors, while many more were accredited by a corrupt Comelec following a Supreme Court decision penned by a magistrate who now claims to be shocked by the depths of depravity that our politics has sunk into.

Our politicians think that 2028, which is their ticket to hallelujah forever and ever, is all about stealing taxpayer money

Because all politics has been fueled by, and elections won through tons of money, corruption became “normal,” and a desensitized public began to slowly resign themselves to the “norm.”

And so, when the First Family won the jackpot in 2022 by forging a “UniTeam” with the unsuspecting mayora from Davao who was not on speaking terms with her president-father, along with promises to return to the “good old days” and chimera of fool’s gold, they vowed never to part with the jackpot.

Since money had become the be-all and end-all of Philippine politics, they believe that 2028 would be a function of who had the biggest pile.

OPM has a new meaning: it has become “other people’s money.” But since banks could not be relied upon to protect accounts from scrutiny, the greedy bought large vaults, later condominiums, even houses, onto which personal depositories the billions they manufactured from the GAA were stashed.

Wonder why the Bangko Sentral changed paper banknotes to polymer, and keeps spending billions in overprinting our money supply?

Because polymer is “anay-proof.”

Our politicians think that 2028, which is their ticket to hallelujah forever and ever, is all about stealing taxpayer money. It’s all about buying their way to unlimited power.

Until they made a series of mistakes of abuse and over-reach.

Until God rained his fury through torrents of rain and floods of misery outraged the people.

Moral from this hideous story of our miserable lives: “God sees the truth, but waits” (Tolstoy).

The myth blocking internet connectivity

THERE was a news report of residents in Purok Pomelo, Minglanilla, Cebu opposing a proposed cell tower project, citing fears radiation from the structure would harm their health and the well-being of children in nearby schools.

The report highlighted the anxiety of the community, echoing a sentiment that still surfaces regularly in barangay meetings, public consultations, and online discourse: that the mere presence of a telco tower is inherently dangerous.

This fear, while understandable, is not supported by science.

As we continue to build the country’s digital infrastructure, especially in areas underserved by stable internet access, it’s time we separated fact from fiction—because allowing misinformation to dictate public policy will only delay the digital inclusion that Filipino students and teachers urgently need.

At the center of this issue is a mis-

When it rains

SEVERE tropical storm Opong, like many before it, caused deaths, injuries, and displacement. It also wrought great damage to property, livelihood, and infrastructure in many places in the central Philippines.

As of press time, the full extent of the devastation has yet to be estimated, as power lines and communication signals make it difficult to send information from the places that were battered by the storm. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said the province of Masbate bore the brunt of the damage.

And that was just the most recent instance. Just a few days before, it was Northern Luzon that was battered by super typhoon Nando.

It is during these instances that the effects of the flood control mess, brought about by revelations of systemic corruption and unabated greed, are felt viscerally by the people. The outrage is much too real.

Days of congressional hearing streamed online have enabled ordinary Filipinos to peek into the underbelly of appropriations – a measly portion of it in projects, yes, but the greater part for distribution among

Health Organization and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection have spent decades reviewing thousands of studies on the subject.

Their conclusion is clear and consistent: exposure to RF signals from properly regulated telco towers poses no proven risk to human health.

understanding of what kind of radiation telco towers actually emit.

These towers use radio frequency (RF) signals, which are a type of nonionizing radiation.

Exposure to RF signals from properly regulated telco towers poses no proven risk to human health

Unlike ionizing radiation, such as X-rays or ultraviolet rays, non-ionizing radiation does not carry enough energy to break chemical bonds or damage DNA.

This crucial distinction forms the basis of all global safety standards governing RF emissions.

Organizations such as the World

These global safety limits are not only based on conservative estimates, but are also designed to protect even the most vulnerable in the population, including children.

A study titled Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Field Exposure Levels in Primary and Secondary Schools in the Region of Thessaly, Greece conducted by Kalampokas et al. measured RF exposure in over 200 schools and found that in 97.5 percent of cases, the levels were at least 3,500 times below the established safety thresholds.

Similar studies across Europe and Asia, including on newer 5G infrastructure, confirm that real-world exposure levels are nowhere near dangerous.

In fact, a student using a mobile phone is likely exposed to more RF energy than they would be by simply attending a school near a telco tower.

Yet despite this scientific consensus, myths persist.

One common belief is that all radiation is harmful, or that children are

public officials and private contractors. With every session, new facets of the convoluted process are exposed, showing just how much corruption has been part of “normal.” These socalled public servants have appropriated the people’s money for their own enjoyment.

Every time it looks like the streets would be flooded anew, we will remember

Thus, many Filipinos have grown to be skeptical of their leaders, whatever political color they may sport. After all, political affiliations have been proven to be shaky, at best, with convenience and practicality being the determining force instead of core principles.

uniquely vulnerable to any exposure, no matter how small.

These assumptions, while emotionally compelling, do not align with the facts.

The safety margins built into current regulations already account for children’s physiology, ensuring their protection even in the most conservative risk models.

By resisting the installation of critical infrastructure near schools, students are denied the very resources they need to thrive in this digital world.

The Department of Education has made digital transformation a cornerstone of its long-term strategy— embracing blended learning, virtual classrooms, and teacher upskilling programs that depend heavily on strong, stable internet connections. That connectivity cannot happen without infrastructure.

Towers are the backbone of the signal coverage that powers everything from online classes to learning management systems. Each delay caused by fear-motivated resistance stalls the rollout of digital tools that could dramatically improve educational outcomes, especially in rural and remote communities where connectivity gaps are widest.

This is not just a technology issue; it is an issue of equity. If we allow myths

Those now under investigation and those about to be indicted will profess innocence and feign their own outrage. They bank on the people’s history of having a short memory. With the next news cycle, they say, this would soon blow over. In a few weeks or months, especially with the frenzy of the coming Christmas season, this would be forgotten. Perhaps one or two will go to jail, just to appease the public’s hunger for accountability, but like all the other scams before this, all will be relegated to history in no time. We should let these officials know that this time is different. Flooding claims lives and livelihoods. It forces people away from their homes and makes them insecure about access to basic necessities for any human being. Contrast this with the excesses of those profiting from what is supposed to be public service.

The people will not forget the shamelessness. Every time it rains, every time it looks like the streets would be flooded anew, we will remember: we cannot do anything about living in a country prone to typhoons and storm surges, but we can take control of our own destiny by denouncing corruption, making these despicable officials pay, and rejecting them in the next elections.

to dictate our infrastructure decisions, we worsen inequality by leaving behind the students who already have the fewest resources.

None of this is to say that communities should not ask questions or seek transparency.

Public consultations are essential. But those conversations must be guided by science and evidence, not by unverified Facebook posts or alarming hearsay.

Local governments and school officials, supported by telco experts, can do their part by educating residents on the difference between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, by citing authoritative health sources, and by sharing real measurement data that demonstrates just how safe exposure levels are.

In an age where digital access defines who gets ahead and who gets left behind, connectivity must be harnessed as a vital tool for leveling the playing field and preparing our youth to thrive in the digital economy. Let us move forward, not in fear, but with facts. We need to support connectivity that opens doors, not close them out of fear.

Let us build a future where every school is a connected school, and every Filipino student has a fair shot at success.

Sweeping UN sanctions hit Iran

UNITED NATIONS, New York – Widespread UN sanctions against Iran returned into force late Saturday (Sunday Manila time) for the first time in a decade, after last-ditch nuclear talks with Western powers failed to produce a breakthrough.

The sanctions, three months after Israel and the United States bombed Iran, bar dealings related to Tehran’s nuclear and ballistic missiles program and are also expected to have wider effects on its troubled economy.

European and US diplomats stressed immediately after the resumption of sanctions that diplomacy was not over.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Tehran to “accept direct talks, held in good faith.” He also called on UN member states to “immediately” implement sanctions to “pressure Iran’s leaders to do what is right for their nation, and best for the safety of the world.”

The British, French and German foreign ministers said in a joint statement they would continue to seek “a new diplomatic solution to ensure Iran never gets a nuclear weapon.” They also called on Tehran “to refrain from any escalatory action.”

Iran has allowed UN inspectors to return to its nuclear sites, but President Masoud Pezeshkian said the United States had offered only a short reprieve in return for handing over its whole stock-

pile of enriched uranium, a proposal he described as unacceptable.

An 11th-hour effort by Iran allies Russia and China to postpone the sanctions until April failed to win enough votes in the Security Council on Friday, leading to the measures taking effect at midnight GMT Sunday, or 8 pm on Saturday in New York.

Germany, which triggered the return of sanctions alongside Britain and France, had “no choice” as Iran was not complying with its obligations, Foreign

Minister Johann Wadephul said.

“For us, it is imperative: Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon,” he told the UN General Assembly.

“But let me emphasize: we remain open to negotiations on a new agreement. Diplomacy can and should continue.”

Russia made clear it would not enforce the sanctions, considering them invalid.

The sanctions “finally exposed the West’s policy of sabotaging the pursuit of constructive solutions in the UN Security Council, as well as its desire to extract unilateral concessions from Tehran through blackmail and pressure,” Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said. AFP

and

SANCTIONS CONDEMNED. US President

Air Force One during the

as ‘unjustifiable’ the reinstatement of United

of talks with Western

to the

the

Chaos preceded rally stampede, 39 killed

MUMBAI, India – A stampede that killed dozens at a south India political rally happened after a crowd of thousands waited hours in baking heat without sufficient safeguards, officials and witnesses said Sunday.

Some 27,000 people thronged a public road in Tamil Nadu state in hopes of seeing popular actor-turned-politician Vijay on Saturday, but panic broke out and 39 were killed, authorities said. Witnesses cited hours of delays, insufficient police presence and people falling from a tree branch onto the audience as contributing to the tragedy.

Deadly crowd incidents happen re-

rally for Gaza deal as Netanyahu meets Trump

TEL AVIV – Thousands of Israelis rallied in Tel Aviv during the weekend demanding a deal to end the Gaza war as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to meet US President Donald Trump. At least 92 people were killed in Israeli strikes across Gaza, 45 of them in Gaza City, according to the territory’s civil defence agency, a rescue force operating under Hamas authority.

Protesters unfurled a large banner reading: “All Hostages, Bring Them Home Now,” as they gathered at Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square.

“The only thing that can stop the slide into the abyss is a full, comprehensive agreement that ends the war and brings all the hostages and the soldiers home,” said Lishay Miran-Lavi, wife of Omri Miran, who remains captive in Gaza.

Directly addressing Trump, she urged:

“Use your influence with Prime Minister Netanyahu.

“Prolonging this war only puts Omri and the other hostages in even greater danger,” she said. Netanyahu and Trump are scheduled to meet at the White House on Monday. AFP

peatedly during mass gatherings in India, often blamed on lax safety measures. Vijay, known by one name, was addressing the rally when the crowds surged suddenly, forcing him to halt his speech in Karur district. Videos on social media showed him tossing water bottles to supporters shortly before the panic broke out.

“My heart is shattered at this tragedy,” the 51-year-old star said in a statement.

State Chief Minister M.K. Stalin told reporters on Sunday that 39 people had died, raising an earlier toll of 36. Nine children were among the dead, he added, announcing a judicial enquiry

and

and US

and

into the disaster.

State police chief G. Venkataraman said crowds had been waiting for hours under hot sun without sufficient food and water after the public was informed that Vijay would arrive at the venue by noon.

“The crowds started coming in from 11 am. He came at 7:40 pm. The people lacked sufficient food and water under the hot sun,” he told reporters. He added 10,000 people were expected but some 27,000 turned up.

Vijay launched his own party in 2024 and has drawn huge crowds at campaign events ahead of state elections due next year. AFP

INJUSTICE. A woman holds a picture of Morena Verdi with a sing that reads: ‘Stop killing us’ during a demonstration called by rights groups under the banner: ‘There are no good or bad victims, only femicides,’ referencing the three murdered teenagers’ alleged involvement in sex work, in Buenos Aires, on Sunday, Manila time. The bodies of Morena Verdi and Brenda Del Castillo, cousins aged 20, and 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez were found buried last Sept. 24 in the yard of a house, five days after they went missing. AFP

BUENOS AIRES – Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Buenos Aires on Saturday to demand justice for three young women whose torture and murders were live-streamed on social media, in a case that has shocked Argentina.

The victims’ relatives held a banner with their names -- “Lara, Brenda, Morena” -- and placards with their images, flanked by supporters as they marched to Parliament.

“It was a narco-feminicide!” “Our lives are not disposable!” read signs and banners as protesters banged on drums at the march, organized by a feminist group.

The bodies of Morena Verdi and Brenda del Castillo, cousins aged 20, and 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez were found buried Wednesday in the yard of a house in a southern suburb of Buenos Aires, five days after they went missing.

The crime, which investigators tied to drug gangs, was perpetrated live on Instagram and watched by 45 members of a private account, officials said.

“Women must be protected more than ever,” Brenda’s father, Leonel del Castillo, told reporters at the protest. He had earlier said he had not been able to identify his daughter’s body due to the abuse she had endured.

Antonio del Castillo, grandfather of the slain 20-year-old cousins, was in tears, calling the killers “bloodthirsty.”

“You wouldn’t do what they did to them to an animal,” he said.

“I have hope that the truth will be revealed,” he added. “I ask people to stand with us.”

On Friday, National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich announced the arrest of a fifth suspect, bringing the total to three men and two women.

The fifth suspect, accused of providing logistical support with a car, was arrested in the Bolivian border city of Villazon.

Authorities have released a photograph of the plot’s alleged mastermind, a 20-year-old Peruvian, who remains at large. AFP

Russian missile and drone barrage kills 4 while Poland scrambles jets

KYIV – Ukraine said Sunday Russia pounded the country with “hundreds” of drones and missiles overnight, killing at least four people in the capital alone, as neighboring Poland scrambled jets to secure its airspace.

The attacks came after Russia warned NATO against taking sterner action in response to alleged incursions into airspace covered by the military alliance.

The barrage also followed the revelation by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that Kyiv had received a USmade Patriot air defence system from Israel for use against Russian assaults.

“Russia launched another massive air attack on Ukrainian cities while people were sleeping,” Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga said on X.

“Again, hundreds of drones and missiles, destroying residential buildings and causing civilian casualties,” he said.

He posted footage of flames bursting from the windows of a multi-story apartment block, with Sybiga blaming the blaze on the attack.

Timur Tkachenko, head of the military administration in the capital Kyiv, had said early reports pointed to “three fatalities”, “including a 12-year-old girl killed by Russians”, before swiftly revising the toll upwards to four after what he said was the discovery of a victim’s body. More deaths could be uncovered as rescuers went about their jobs, he warned. In the wider Kyiv region surrounding the capital, the Russian strikes left at least 27 wounded, Mykola Kalachnyk, the military administration’s head said on Telegram. The governor of the southeastern Zaporizhzhia region said Russian strikes there had injured at least four people. AFP

IN BRIEF

CHISINAU, Moldova – Moldovans vote on Sunday in parliamentary elections that could see the country neighboring Ukraine swerve from its pro-European path towards Moscow, with the government and the EU accusing Russia of “deeply interfering”. Moldova, a non-EU country, has long been divided over closer ties with Brussels or maintaining Soviet-era relations with Moscow. Most polls show the pro-EU Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), in power since 2021, in the lead in the vote. But analysts say the race is far from certain.

“Moldova heads into its most consequential election,” pro-EU President Maia Sandu of PAS posted on X on Friday.

“Its outcome will decide whether we consolidate our democracy and join the EU, or whether Russia drags us back into a grey zone, making us a regional risk,” she added. The EU has said that Moldova is facing “an unprecedented campaign of disinformation” from Russia, while Prime Minister Dorin Recean warned of a “siege on our country”.

Moscow has denied Chisinau’s allegations that it is waging an online disinformation campaign and that it is looking to buy votes and stir unrest. AFP

with Starmer

LONDON – Britain’s ruling Labour party gathers for its annual meeting on Sunday, with under-fire Prime Minister Keir Starmer battling to convince nervous lawmakers that he is the right leader to fend off soaring support for the hard right.

It was only in July last year that the exlawyer led Labour back to power after 14 years in opposition, but scandals, policy missteps and plummeting poll ratings are already raising doubts about his future. The four-day gathering in Liverpool, northwest England, comes amid chatter about a possible leadership challenge and follows two recent high-profile departures from government following embarrassing revelations.

The conference, which ends on Wednesday, takes place with Labor lagging well behind the upstart anti-immigrant Reform UK party, led by anti-EU firebrand Nigel Farage, in national surveys. AFP

‘THEY WILL REGRET IT.’ Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivers a press conference in Kyiv during the weekend amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The presscon came as Russia launched another massive air attack on Ukrainian cities while people were sleeping, according to Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga who posted footage of flames on X bursting from the windows of a multi-storey apartment block, with Sybiga blaming the blaze on the attack. AFP

Donald Trump

his granddaughter, Kai Trump (right), exit from

weekend in Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. This coincided with reports Iran condemned

Nations sanctions over its nuclear program, after the collapse

powers

Israeli

strikes on its nuclear sites.The measures, which bar dealings linked

Islamic republic’s nuclear

ballistic missile activities, took effect overnight after Western powers triggered

so-called ‘snapback’ mechanism under the 2015 nuclear accord. AFP

Guardians, Tigers make MLB playo s

LOS ANGELES—The Cleveland Guardians punched an improbable ticket to the Major League Baseball playoffs on Saturday with a 3-2 victory over the Texas Rangers -- sealed when C.J. Kayfus was hit by a pitch from Robert Garcia with the bases loaded and two outs in the ninth inning.

The walkoff win means the Guardians are assured of at least an American League wild card berth.

They remained tied with the Detroit Tigers atop the AL Central division going into the final day of the regular season.

The Tigers, whose September swoon saw them plummet out of the AL Central lead, also secured a post-season berth with a 2-1 victory over the Boston Red Sox.

The Guardians own the head-tohead tiebreaker and will claim the division if both emerge Sunday with the same record.

It’s a remarkable outcome for Cleveland, who lost 10 straight games from June 26-July 6. They trailed the Tigers by 15.5 games in early July and were still 11 games back to start September. Cleveland’s victory also eliminated the Houston Astros, who will miss the playoffs for the first time since 2016.

In other games on the penultimate day of the regular season, the Chicago Cubs -- already in the playoffs for the first time since 2020 -- secured home field advantage in their wild card series against San Diego with a 7-3 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field.

First baseman Michael Busch hit two home runs, the third multi-homer game of his career.

Busch bashed a leadoff shot off Cardinals pitcher Michael McGreevy in the first inning and added a two-run homer off McGreevy in the fifth. He added a double in the third inning and drove in a run with a triple in the seventh. But he was denied a final chance to complete the cycle when he was intentionally walked in the eighth inning.

New York’s Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton and Ryan McMahon all homered as the Yankees beat the Baltimore Orioles 6-1 to remain locked in a race with Toronto for baseball’s American League East division title. AFP

Gauff digs deep to keep China title defense alive

BEIJING—Defending champion Coco Gauff withstood a gruelling examination by Leylah Fernandez on Sunday, battling through 6-4, 4-6, 7-5 to keep her hopes of winning back-to-back China Opens alive.

“I did what I needed to do to win today,” the 21-year-old American said.

“It was very physical,” Gauff said.

“We were going back and forth.” Gauff looked in control in the first set but the gritty Fernandez hit back in the second to force a decider.

The 25th-ranked Canadian survived a match point to level at 5-5 but Gauff finally clinched the 2hr 45min marathon when Fernandez netted.

The world number three next plays

MOTEGI, Japan—An emotional Marc

Marquez said he was “at peace” with himself after winning his first MotoGP world title since 2019 on Sunday, capping a remarkable comeback from an injury nightmare.

The Spaniard finished second at the Japan grand prix behind fellow Ducati rider Francesco Bagnaia to clinch his seventh world title with five events to spare. It marked a triumphant return from a gruelling struggle with injuries since breaking his right arm in 2020 that almost forced him to hang up his helmet.

The 32-year-old said his title was “written in the stars” but admitted he had doubts he would return to the top.

“Of course I feel happy but the first feeling is that I feel at peace with myself,” he said.

“It was Marc against Marc during five years, Marc against injury, but especially about the mental side was difficult.

“I took super difficult decisions but I closed the circle in the perfect way,” he added. Marquez has been in brilliant form all year and knew that placing first or second would clinch the title regardless of where his brother and closest championship rival Alex finished.

He wrapped up the world championship in Japan for the fourth time in his career, following 2014, 2016 and 2018, and now draws level with Italian motorcycle legend Valentino Rossi on seven titles. AFP

either Switzerland’s Belinda Bencic or qualifier Priscilla Hon of Australia for a place in the quarter-finals.

In the men’s draw, Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti apologised on court after his match Sunday for an outburst at coughing fans earlier in the tournament.

“Well first of all, I want to say... a public apology,” the 23-year-old Italian said in English after beating France’s Adrian Mannarino 6-3, 6-3 to move into the quarter-finals.

Fans booed when he entered the court for the match and some were making loud guttural coughing noises.

“I totally understand your point and I... regret what I’ve said and what I’ve done, so sorry, thanks for understanding,” he said. The on-court interviewer, however, did not translate his apology into Chinese for the fans, only relaying Musetti’s brief comments about the match.

In the women’s draw, Germany’s Eva Lys stunned world number 10 and former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina 6-3, 1-6, 6-4.

“I was trying to get a top 10 win the whole year,” said the 23-year-old Lys, ranked 66.

“This is my first one. I’m very happy

I finally got it done.”

Scan to pay with GCash, win trip to NBA China Games ‘25

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But that’s not all – you also have a chance to win GCash | Travel+ and GCash | Alipay+ Overseas Offline vouchers. These can be used for flights, hotels, eSims, car rentals, and in-store payments. To join, simply log in to your GCash app and register on the Alipay+ Destination Campaign page. Each registered user can earn a maximum of five scratch cards during the promo period, so the more you use GCash abroad, the more chances you have to win! Effortless Travel, All-Star Style with GCash GCash Scan to Pay makes your international trip smoother than a fast break. Whether you’re dining on street food in Thailand and Malaysia, sightseeing through the historic streets of Japan and South Korea, or shopping for the latest trends in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macao, you can use GCash in over 80M Alipay+ merchants. Just like at home, you can use Scan-to-Pay at retail stores, food establishments, groceries and convenience stores.

North vs. South clash in explosive ICTSI Elite Junior Finals

THE long and gruelling journey of the Junior Philippine Golf Tour (JPGT) culminates in a dramatic, high-stakes finale as the ICTSI Elite Junior Finals gets going on Wednesday (Oct. 1) at The Country Club in Laguna – a fitting stage for what promises to be a thrilling, unpredictable and history-making showdown. This isn’t just another junior golf tournament. The season-ending championship brings together the country’s finest young talents in a Ryder Cup-style battle – a novel, highpressure format never before used in the JPGT Finals. For the first time, the best of the North (Luzon) face off against the cream of the crop from the South (Visayas-Mindanao), in a three-day team-based format where chemistry, strategy and resilience matter just as much as raw talent. And with the stakes higher than ever, anything can happen.

The Finals will unfold over three competitive formats: Day 1 (Oct. 1) – Four-Ball (Best Ball):

Poland’s Iga Swiatek is the top seed at the WTA 1000 event after world number one Aryna Sabalenka withdrew. Italy’s Jannik Sinner is the top seed in the men’s ATP 500 event being played alongside the women’s tournament. AFP

FIRST WIN. San Juan’s Kaycee Balingit scores against Marikina’s Selene Daragat in Season 2 of the MPVA at the Arellano University Gym in Legarda. The Lady Knights got their rst win of the tournament after beating the Shoemasters, 25-17, 25-20, 25-16. Roman Prospero

Marc Marquez

USA’s Coco Gau celebrates victory against Canada’s Leylah Fernandez. AFP

Two lucky winners will score 2 tickets each to watch the Brooklyn Nets and the Phoenix Suns face off live, complete with flights and accommodation.

Rafa Anciano and Levonne Talion of Team North, along with Tashanah Balangauan and Crista Miñoza of the South squad, aim to lead their respective teams in the girls’ premier 15–18 division of the upcoming JPGT Elite Junior Finals.

and the best score

Nueva Ecija 5, Caloocan win; Basilan rips QC

Ecija, Caloocan and Basilan all prevailed on Saturday, but only the Starhorse Portmasters made headway in Manny Pacquiao Presents MPBL 2025 Season at the Ynares Center Montalban in Rizal Province.

The Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards thwarted the Rizal Xentromall Golden Coolers, 79-67, in the nightcap to improve their record to 27-2, but settled for No. 2 in the North Division behind the Abra Weavers Solid North (27-1).

The Caloocan Batang Kankaloo eliminated the Sarangani Grippers, 93-79, in the second game and kept the seventh slot in the North with their 20-8 slate.

Basilan battered the Quezon City Galeries Taipans throughout before cruising to a 94-81 victory in the opener and jumping to the fourth spot in the South Division with an 18-11 card.

The Portmasters caught up with the Gensan Warriors, whom they beat (75-72) in May and relegated to No. 5. Thus, Basilan will have the homecourt advantage in their best-of-three playoff tussle starting on October 11, 2025.

Sherwin Concepcion led Basilan with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists, followed by Jervy Cruz with 15 points plus 12 rebounds, Adi Santos with 13 points plus 4 assists, Arwind Santos with 12 points, 6 rebounds and 3 steals, Alex Cabagnot with 11 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds, and Renzo Navarro with 8 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists.

The Portmasters achieved their initial goal of making the playoffs set by team owner Jax Chua and co-owner Mayor Julz Hataman of Sumisip, Basilan.

PH gets rights to host 2029 women’s world volley meet SPORTS

By Peter Atencio

HOSTING rights have again been awarded to the Philippines by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB).

After its successful hosting of the FIVB Men’s World Championships, the Philippines has been given the responsibility to stage the Women’s World Championship 2029, with FIVB president Fabio Azevedo and legendary Brazilian volleyball player

Leila Barros making the announcement on Sunday before the start of the finals of the Men’s World Championship at the Mall of Asia Arena.

“Hosting the Volleyball Women’s World Championship 2029 in the

Philippines is an opportunity to again showcase not only the very best of volleyball, but also the positive impact our sport has on society,” said Acevedo.

This will be the first time that the Women’s World Championship in the country.

And the Philippines is known to be a nation with a deep passion for volleyball.

“Volleyball is unique in its accessibility, inclusivity and its ability to unite people from all backgrounds. That has been so profound here in the Philippines

as the country hosts the Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025, and we have no doubt that it will be the same for the 2029 edition,” added Acevedo.

FIVB Executive Vice President and Asian Volleyball Confederation president Ramon Suzara expressed his delight over the development, saying the Philippine National Volleyball Federation, which he also heads, has learned a lot when they ran and managed the games of the 2025 FIVB world men’s championship.

“We have learned many things in hosting the Men’s World Championship in 2025, and we will surely do it even better for the Women’s World Championship in 2029. We are determined to carry forward the momentum of the World Championship 2025

UP Maroons bludgeon Warriors, snap early slump

REY Remogat fired 18 of his 21 points in the first half to power the University of the Philippines to a commanding 92-75 win over University of the East, snapping its early slump in the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Basketball Tournament on Sunday afternoon at the SMART Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. Remogat, who transferred from the Red Warriors to the Fighting Maroons last year, also tallied 11 assists to complete a double-double, on top of seven rebounds and two steals.

The Fighting Maroons finally broke through after back-to-back losses to University of Santo Tomas and Adamson University—a much-needed victory to breathe life into their title defense.

Touted as the heir apparent to Season 87 Finals MVP JD Cagulangan, Remogat’s breakout game was a welcome sight for UP after the 21-year-old guard struggled in his first two outings, averaging just 2.5 points on 20-percent shooting with 2.0 assists, 1.0 rebounds, and 1.0 turnovers.

“Wala naman gigil, kasi galing kami sa dalawang beses na pagkatalo. ‘Yung gigil kasi, puwede mangyari na panget or maganda. Siguro, mas nag-focus lang ako sa dapat ko gawin as a point guard and hindi ko ginawang basis yung UE para maging maganda yung laro ko,” said Remogat. After UE jumped to a 17-9 lead, the shifty guard

erupted, drilling five triples for 18 first-half points that turned the tide and buried his former squad in a 53-36 halftime hole.

UP carried that momentum into the third quarter, extending the lead to 20 as Remogat and Mark

Belmonte buried back-to-back threes, Miguel Palanca scored inside, and Gerry Abadiano sank three free throws to build a 7454 cushion heading into the final frame.

UE’s hopes of mounting a comeback were crushed in the fourth when UP unleashed an 11-3 run capped by a thunderous tomahawk dunk from Nigerian forward Francis Nnoruka, who stretched the margin to a game-high 28 points, 85-57, sealing the rout.

““Yung mga ganitong panalo would always feel positive, especially if it’s our first win. For me, it’s more than the win, it’s how we played this game today. It’s understanding that we need each other to achieve something big,” said UP head coach Goldwin Monteverde.

Nnoruka backed up Remogat with 14 points on 6-of-12 shooting, 10 rebounds, and three blocks.

Gani Stevens also delivered a double-double with 14 points—all in the second half—alongside 10 rebounds and one assist.

UST scores rebound win over Letran in Super League

Games on October 3 (Paco Arena)

12 noon –-- CSB vs SSC-R

2 p.m. --- San Beda

(SSL) Preseason Unity Cup Sunday at the Playtime FilOil Centre in San Juan.

Xyza Gula led two other Tigresses in double-figure scoring with 16 points from 14 kills, one ace and a kill block as UST recovered from a sorry fiveset setback to University of the Philippines last week.

The Tigresses weathered a fourth set scare by the feisty Lady Knights with a scorching 10-2 finishing kick to barge into the win column of the centerpiece tournament of the league, backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner and R and B Milk Tea.

Marga Altea added 12 markers

while Julia Balingit added 11 in UST’s balanced offense. Mary Joe Coronado

had nine points while Denise Bron and Kyla Cordora chipped in with six each for the Tigresses. “Nag-start kami sa training since ‘yung last game nga namin, ‘yun ang nagkulang sa amin, ‘yung composure, especially in the fifth set. ‘Yun ang pinag-practice namin the whole week. Lumalabas naman ng paunti-unti so more pa po,” said Altea, who had six attacks, four kill blocks and two aces.

A Cordora hit shattered a 15-15 deadlock in the fourth set, sparking an 8-1 run capped by a Gula off the block hit for a comfortable 23-16 lead. Leonilyn Padilla stopped Letran’s

bleeding before Gula sealed the win with back-to-back hits.

“Inayos lang namin ang composure namin kasi knowing ‘yung team namin na kapag nalalamangan may chances na nahahabol ng kalaban. ‘Yun ang biggest challenge namin. Gaya kanina na nag-tie na (sa fourth set), dapat kapag ganun mas maging strong pa kami at mas maging composed pa,” Altea added.

Judiel Nitura was the lone bright spot for the Lady Knights after scoring 15 points.

Verenicce Colendra and Maquillang had nine and seven points, respectively, in Letran’s opening day loss 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.

and channel it into something lasting for our athletes, our fans and our nation,” said Suzara. Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick “Pató” Gregorio expressed his gladness over the development. Gregorio felt that the hosting another volleyball event in 2029 is a great gift for volleyball-loving Filipinos across the nation.

“This long-term partnership with the FIVB and Volleyball World—a transformative empowerment program for our athletes first, and a bold push for sports tourism toward economic growth second—will not only allow our country to be at the heart of volleyball’s global growth; it will set a historic blueprint for Philippine sports development overall,” said Gregorio.

National U blasts EAC in rousing start

NATIONAL University opened its fourpeat bid in dominating fashion with a 25-14, 25-15, 25-14, victory over listless Emilio Aguinaldo College in Pool A of the 2025 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Preseason Unity Cup Sunday at the Playtime FilOil Centre in San Juan. The Lady Bulldogs flexed their depth and firepower in a swift submission of the overwhelmed Lady Generals in the centerpiece tournament of the league, backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner and R and B Milk Tea.

Although no one on the NU side reached double figures, 12 of the 14 Lady Bulldogs fielded by head coach Regine Diego chipped in points, with Celine Marsh and converted opposite Pat Salazar firing seven points each. “Middle ako pero kahapon lang ako trinansfer sa opposite. Wala namang bago, ‘yung system same pa rin pero sa training nililinis lang namin ‘yung galaw namin,” said Salazar, who scored all of her points from kills. NU, which was in control from start to finish, peppered EAC with 45 kills and got 25 free points off the Lady Generals’ errors in the lopsided match. Denesse Daylisan had six points while Chams Maaya and Kaye Bombita posted five markers each for the Lady Bulldogs, who barely felt the absence of top rookie Sam Cantada and the cold outing of Vange Alinsug. NU joined San Beda University at the top of Pool A in the group stage of 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. EAC slipped to a 0-2 slate and was pushed to the brink of elimination. Cara Dayanan, Alessandra Rasonable, Shamira Pantoja and Ashley Toriado registered three points each to lead the Lady

Shown here are (from left) Hugh McCutcheon, Secretary General FIVB; PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio; FIVB president Fabio Azevedo; Brazilian volleyball iconturned Senator Leila Barros; PNVF chief Ramon Suzara and Ugo Valensi, Volleyball World CEO, ashing the thumbs’ up sign.

NUEVA

Jaycee Marcelino strikes hard for the Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards.

UST’s Xyza Gula soars for a smash.

UP’s Francis Nnoruka goes airborne for a slam dunk.

Meralco unit to acquire 2,200 hectares for Terra Solar 2 project

1,500 MW

Expected capacity of MTerra 2

2,200 hectares

Needed for MTerra 2 project

3,500 hectares

Size of MTerra 1 project

Asian export resilience to moderate soon, says UK research

ASIAN goods export volumes, in seasonally adjusted terms, remained close to their July peak in August, reflecting exporter price concessions, delays in US tariff implementation and robust electronics demand, according to Oxford Economics.

Oxford Economics, however, expects this resilience to moderate over the coming months.

More sectoral tariffs, including on pharma products, have added to headwinds, it said. Carve-outs for selected products and active US-based manufacturing are expected to soften the effective tariff burden, though a bigger risk remains the threatened tariff increases on semiconductors.

“We estimate that Asian exports dropped back in August, contracting by 1.8 percent month-on-month in seasonally adjusted U.S. dollar terms after July’s 2.2 percent expansion,” Oxford Economics said.

“Excluding Taiwan, export momentum lost steam everywhere. This was most acute in shipment from South and Southeast Asian economies, which fell by 5.0 percent m/m sa,” it said.

After adjusting for price effects, export volumes for the region edged down by 0.1 percent m/m sa in August, a touch under July’s peak.

This suggests that Asian exporters, especially Japan, South Korea and China, are reducing prices to maintain competitiveness, it said. Machinery and electronics remain the most affected by US tariffs based on product type.

Sectors with elevated tariffs like metals and autos consistently surpass expectations, possibly due to price declines and limited exposure to US markets in non-electronics sectors.

Oxford Economics expects any remaining resilience to diminish soon. A 100-percent tariff on patented pharmaceuticals, alongside a 25-percent tariff on trucks and 30-percent tariff on furniture, takes effect on Oct. 1, 2025.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MERALCO PowerGen Corp. (MGEN), the power generation arm of Manila Electric Co (Meralco), is preparing to acquire land for the planned second phase of its MTerra Solar project, which is estimated to have a capacity of 1,500 megawatts (MW).

MGEN is also studying a possible stock exchange listing for its renewable energy subsidiary, MGEN Renewable Energy Inc (MGreen). The company is considering a backdoor listing via Solar Philippines Nueva Ecija Corp. (SPNEC) by next year.

The ongoing MTerra Solar project currently has 3,500 MW peak of solar photovoltaic capacity, complemented by 4,500 megawatt-hours of battery energy storage. As of end-June 2025, Phase 1 of the project was 54-percent complete.

NEGROS FAIR.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) joins Bacolod City and Negrense communities in marking Bacolod Day: Himbon Bacolodnon at the 39th Negros Trade Fair on Sept. 27, 2025 at the SMX Convention Center Aura, Taguig City. Now on its 39th year, the Negros Trade Fair is recognized as the country’s longest-running provincial trade showcase.

The MTerra Solar project spans 3,500 hectares across the towns of Gapan, Peñaranda, General Tinio and San Leonardo in Nueva Ecija and San Miguel in Bulacan.

“MVP [Manuel V. Pangilinan, MGEN chairman] has already talked about possible Terra Solar 2, and we are looking for land for Terra Solar 2,” MGEN president Emmanuel Rubio said.

“I think to make it really viable, it should be around at least 1,500 MW. So that will probably look at around

2,200 hectares of land,” Rubio said. He said MGEN Renewables recently purchased more than 400 hectares of land in Nueva Ecija.

“I don’t think Terra Solar 2 has to be in one location. It has to provide mid-merit, but it can be in multiple locations, as long as it’s providing that profile of mid-merit that will meet the requirement of any DU [distribution utility] or EC [electric cooperative],” he said.

Rubio said they should consolidate MGreen’s renewable energy assets before undertaking the backdoor listing.

“When we deliver the first phase of Terra Solar, then investors, the public, will know that we’re capable of delivering our promise. And when we actually merge all the assets under MGEN Renewables, it will create a lot more value. It will be more credible in terms of capacity and in terms of capability compared to where we are today,” he said.

By Othel V. Campos

THE Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) is inviting investors to develop a P4.7-billion world-class seaport in Casiguran, Aurora. It said the flagship project is integral to transforming the ecozone into a strategic transshipment hub along the Pacific seaboard.

APECO president and chief executive Gil Taway IV said the

seaport would give exporters shorter shipping routes to Asia-Pacific markets such as Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan, the United States and Oceania, while helping decongest the heavily utilized western seaboard ports and road networks.

“You can build infrastructure anywhere, but you cannot move geography. APECO’s location is our greatest strength,” Taway said in a presentation at the Arangkada 2025, highlighting the resilience of the

New bidding rule to ensure infra quality

A BIDDING method under the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA), signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in 2024, ensures that the winning bid will provide high quality outcomes at a reasonable cost, according to Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman.

The DBM is the implementing agency for Republic Act (RA) No. 12009, or the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA), which replaced the 20-yearold Government Procurement Reform Act (RA 9184) and became effective on Aug. 13, 2024.

The law introduces the Most Economically Advantageous Responsive Bid (MEARB), a new method for evaluating offers for government projects.

“Through the MEARB, we can

ensure that the best and winning bid will provide us with high-quality outcomes at a reasonable cost,” Pangandaman said in a Facebook post over the weekend.

The MEARB method determines the winning bid for the Procurement of Goods and Infrastructure Projects by considering both the overall cost and the quality of the goods or project, rather than solely focusing on the lowest bid price.

Procuring entities will use a quality-price ratio, allowing them to assess the quality component based on a predefined set of criteria and assign appropriate weights to both quality and price.

Pangandaman said “game-changing reforms” allow value and quality to be considered alongside the lowest price in project bidding.

Casiguran Cove’s natural harbor being sheltered by the Sierra Madre mountain range and the San Ildefonso Peninsula.

Alongside the seaport, APECO is also pursuing the expansion of its airport facilities to strengthen connectivity, particularly the existing 1.3-kilometer airstrip, which recently accommodated chartered flights.

A permit to operate from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is expected before year-end, paving the way for full commercial operations.

Over the long term, APECO envisions an international airport capable of handling Airbus A320s, supported by a 12-hectare land acquisition to expand its facilities. Taway also underscored the ecozone’s potential for defense manufacturing, citing its relative isolation and security as ideal for sensitive industries such as ordnance production, logistics systems and advanced defense equipment.

PH chicken supply adequate despite import push, says UBRA

THE United Broiler Raisers Association (UBRA) said Monday the Philippines has sufficient chicken supplies, disputing recurring claims of shortages that often prompt importation.

The association also urged the public to be cautious when buying poultry products, particularly imported frozen chicken sold in wet markets.

UBRA technical committee head Dr. Rolly dela Torre said the perceived shortage is often linked to price and specific product requirements rather than actual supply volume.

“From the ground and field operations, I would say we have enough supply,” he said.

“Sometimes processors say there’s

said dela Torre.

Dela Torre said government importation policies are largely based on Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data, which may not always reflect conditions on farms. “According to PSA data reviewed by [National Economic and Development Authority] NEDA and the economic managers, there’s a shortage. But if you ask the producers, we have enough,” he said, adding that demand spikes only during festive seasons and when pork prices rise.

The National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) reported that nearly 70 percent of the current supply in 2025 came from imports.

B2

B3

B4

SENIOR GUIDES. Thirty senior citizens from Manila undertake a seven-day Community Tour Guiding Training as part of a pioneering program by the Department of Tourism (DOT), the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) and the Intramuros Administration. The participants, aged 60 to 79 and hailing from areas including Malate, Ermita, Paco, Santa Ana, Sampaloc and Port Area, began the course on Sept. 24, 2025 at the Centro de Turismo Intramuros.

PH stocks seen rebounding amid rate cut hopes

By Jenniffer B. Austria

SHARE prices are expected to bounce back this week as bargain hunting and hopes of a rate cut could counter the previous week’s steep decline.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) last week plunged by 3.79 percent to close at 6,027 while the broader all shares index declined by 2.57 percent to 3,644.

Unicapital Inc. research analyst Peter Garnace said this week’s rebound will also be supported by improved sentiments from the U.S.

“The market will digest U.S. core PCE (personal consumption expenditure) for August, which came in line with the market estimates, increasing hopes for two more rate cuts from the U.S. Fed’s upcoming meetings,” Garnace said.

“This could ease pressure on the peso and give Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) greater scope to continue its

easing cycle,” he added.

Meanwhile, investors are also expected to watch out for key economic data such as the country’s trade balance and U.S. jobs data.

Last week’s decline was largely due to negative investor sentiment following the latest developments in the government’s investigation into the corruption in flood control projects.

The weak peso also contributed to the market’s overall decline.

Year-to-date, the PSEi is down 7.68 percent.

Average value traded for the week reached P9 billion, slightly higher than the previous week’s average of P8.7 billion.

Despite the market’s decline, foreign investors turned net buyers with inflows amounting to P6.36 billion.

Globe vows to build more cell towers in underserved areas

By Darwin G. Amojelar

GLOBE Telecom Inc. plans to build more cell towers in Geographically

Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) this year to meet the rising

demand for broadband connectivity.

The Ayala-led telco said its mobile network now covers a million Filipinos, giving them reliable signals for calls, internet use and daily communication. Still, about 4.2 million people

FIRST Balfour Inc., the Lopez Group’s construction and engineering arm, has adopted an AI-powered construction management system (CMS) that integrates into a single platform the planning, execution and monitoring of its projects for faster and more efficient management.

In acquiring the CMS software, First Balfour reached a new milestone by becoming the first construction company in the Philippines to harness the capabilities of Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) with AI-powered cost management and advanced analytics dashboards.

“In the past, it took days or even weeks to gather project information. Now, with this platform, everyone can be online in just minutes,” said Rey Villar, First Balfour managing director for construction operations. “The launch of the CMS stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to driving excellence, advancing innovation and shaping the future of construction.”

First Balfour announced its adoption of the CMS on Sept. 16, 2025, following its agreement with CIM Technologies Inc. for First Balfour’s use of the ACC. CIM Technologies, a leading Philippine provider of design automation technology solutions, is authorized to offer the ACC. Anthony Fernandez, First Balfour vice chairman and chief executive, explained that the launch of the CMS, along with First Balfour’s partnership with Autodesk and CIM Technologies, represents the company’s “first major step in adopting

remain outside coverage, highlighting the need for continued expansion.

To address this, Globe continues to build and upgrade its network. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, it rolled out 487 new towers, upgraded nearly 4,000 sites with LTE and activated 235 additional 5G sites. Today, its 5G network supports more than 9.5 million devices nationwide.

The push extends to GIDAs, where 600 operational sites are already live, with a target of 700 by year-end. Industry-wide plans between 2025 and 2028 aim to bring more than 1,000 new towers to these underserved communities.

As of 2025, the Philippines has fewer than 38,000 cell sites, short of the estimated 50,000 required to serve more than 113 million mobile users. By comparison, Indonesia operates more than 121,000 sites, Vietnam around 90,000 and Myanmar has already surpassed the Philippines in tower density. This gap continues to affect the reach and reliability of mobile and internet services nationwide.

Globe’s mobile network now covers 96.13 percent of the Philippine population, serving more than 106 million people, though about 4.2 million Filipinos remain outside coverage. The company invested P56.2 billion in 2024, mostly for network upgrades.

“Every tower we build brings Filipinos closer to opportunity, better education, stronger businesses, and more connected communities,” said Carl Cruz, Globe president and chief executive.

cutting-edge technologies designed to enhance project management and operational efficiency.”

According to John Peralta, First Balfour’s overall CMS project champion, the CMS “brings all the aspects of our projects together in one place — from tender, planning, and scheduling, to cost tracking, document management, and collaboration.

“It will not only improve coordination, but also significantly boost project productivity across all our projects,” Peralta said.

Dennis Lim, Autodesk construction account executive, for his part said: “Because of this collective effort, we’ll be seeing meaningful results: improved coordination across disciplines, data-driven cost control, higher quality and safety outcomes, and a future-ready foundation with open integrations.”

The CMS is built on the foundation of First Balfour’s 2024 initiative, called Project UNLAD (Unleashing Next-Level Automation and Digitalization). According to Fernandez, Project UNLAD marked the “beginning of a bigger digital journey.”

A subsidiary of Lopez-led First Philippine Holdings Corporation, First Balfour has participated in constructing some of the country’s biggest infrastructure projects since it was organized in 1969. These projects included Manila Water Company’s water service improvement project, the Cebu-Cordova Link

the North Luzon Expressway and the Light Rail Transit Line 1 Cavite Extension, to

a few.

(MStandard

Expressway,

name

GLOBE’S HR AWARD. Globe Telecom’s HR leaders proudly hold the 5th HR Asia Best Companies to Work For Awards 2025 trophy. Photo shows from (from left) Mark Dimaisip, head of culture building and employee experience;

Lyn Sebial, head of people operations and HR technology; Nino Cabredo, head of talent acquisition; Renato Jiao, chief human resources officer; Nico Bambao, head of people experience; and DJ Permalino, head of labor relations and people programs.

Autodesk and First Balfour Inc. officials pose for a group photo during the launch of First Balfour’s AI-powered construction management system on Sept. 16, 2025. They are (from left) Dennis Lim, Autodesk account executive; Rey Villar, First Balfour managing director for construction operations; Filipinas Martinez, CIM Technologies assistant vice president for corporate sales; and Anthony Fernandez, First Balfour vice chairman and chief executive officer.

BUSINESS

DA asks PCIC to assess crop damage from storms

By Othel V. Campos

AGRICULTURE Secretary Fran-

cisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has ordered regional offices of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) to fast-track damage verification and loss assessments after recent tropical cyclones and the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) left the farm sector reeling from P1.38 billion in losses.

The DA’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Center reported that the combined impact of cyclones Mirasol and Nando and Habagat damaged 47,723 hectares of farmland across nine regions, affecting 55,595 farmers and workers.

Production losses were estimated at 109,997 metric tons, encompassing rice, corn, high-value crops, livestock and poultry.

In Cagayan province alone, where Tiu Laurel joined President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to distribute aid, the DA estimated losses at P700 million. The department has lined up

assistance, including 142,219 bags of palay seeds, 90,320 bags of corn seeds, 40,518 kilograms of vegetable seeds, 1.65 million fingerlings, veterinary supplies and access to zero-interest Survival and Recovery (SURE) loans of up to P25,000, along with crop insurance indemnification.

The PCIC has set aside P236 million in payouts for 25,800 farmers in eight regions, with P206 million earmarked for rice-related losses.

To aid relief efforts, Tiu Laurel, who also chairs the National Food Authority (NFA), ordered the release of rice stocks.

NFA Administrator Larry Lacson said 2.4 million bags have been earmarked for disaster response, equivalent to nine days of national consumption.

Meanwhile, the DA continues to consolidate damage reports from Severe Tropical Storm Opong, which struck central agricultural areas, including Mindoro and Masbate. Initial figures are expected Sunday.

TransCo proposes catch-up feed-in tariff rate

Agri Department seeks stronger ties with local leaders

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is strengthening collaboration with provincial governments to advance agricultural and fisheries priorities, as highlighted during the National AgriFishery Investment Forum.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the importance of working closely with local leaders, noting that their active participation reflects a shared commitment to agricultural transformation.

“I love working with the governors because they know what their provinces need and can set the right priorities,” he said, adding that engaging with local leaders is easier since they have a clear grasp of their provincial priorities.

During the forum, officials identified commodities such as rice, corn and swine, along with specific value chain segments requiring targeted support.

Tiu Laurel pointed out that the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) Scale-Up was designed to address these priorities through investments in infrastructure, enterprise development and capacity building.

“What excited me most was the ownership shown, ownership that signaled a stronger partnership between the national government and provincial governments,” he added.

The secretary also confirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved an increase in the 2026 budget, including additional funds reallocated from flood control programs to agriculture.

“I’m letting you know that our 2026 budget has been increased. Let us thank President Marcos. This will be used for our farmers and fisherfolk,” he said. Othel V. Campos

By Alena Mae S. Flores

STATE-RUN National Transmission Corporation (TransCo) has proposed a catch-up feed-in tariff allowance (FIT-All) rate of P0.3675 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) effective the September billing period.

TransCo asked the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to issue a provisional authority to collect the catch-up FIT-All rate, pending the final disposition of its application.

Alternatively, TransCo sought approval for a FIT-All rate of P0.1879 per kWh effective the January 2025 billing period, or P0.3160 per kWh effective the August 2025 billing period.

TransCo, by virtue of the ERC Resolution No. 15, Series of 2012, is the administrator of the FIT-All.

The FIT-All is a uniform peso-per-kWh charge billed to all on-grid electricity consumers

who are supplied with power through the distribution or transmission network.

The current FIT-All rate is at P0.1189 per kWh.

TransCo files its FIT-All application with the ERC annually in its capacity as the FIT-All fund administrator, tasked with the establishment, management, administration and disbursement/ settlement of the FIT-All Fund.

The fund is used to pay the FIT of renewable energy developers, as mandated under the Renewable Energy Act of 2008.

The law mandated establishing a FIT system for electricity produced from wind, solar, ocean, run-of-river, hydropower and biomass.

The FIT system guarantees all eligible renewable energy (RE) plants an entitlement for the applicable FITs for 20 years.

Under the ERC-issued guidelines, the FITAll rate should be approved by the regulator by October the year before it should be implemented.

Since this did not happen and due to the delays, the payables to the RE developers have accumulated.

The accountant’s mission to serve the public interest

GREEN LIGHT

Arnel Onesimo O. Uy

IN THE recently concluded 41st ACPACI Annual National Conference in Baguio, I was asked why and how accounting continues to be relevant in the age of AI. I tell them that while GenAI is the new normal in our profession, it is not the new boss.

We, accountants, should remember that our mission is to go beyond reporting and to serve the public interest. This isn’t just about crunching numbers, which GenAI can do efficiently. It’s about being a pillar of trust, ensuring transparency and providing the reliable information that keeps our economy, and society stable.

Accountants are the gatekeepers of financial integrity, and we have a moral duty to guard against fraud and corruption. When we fail in this duty, the consequences are severe. The recent corruption scandals, especially the “ghost” flood control projects, are a stark and painful reminder of that.

As a professor, I know and tell my students that our public interest mission is multifaceted. It means protecting investors and creditors by ensuring financial reports are fair and accurate. It means giving the public confidence that organizations, both private and public, are operating legally and ethically. And it means contributing to the nation’s economic development and good governance.

This mission is particularly critical in developing countries like the Philippines, where robust financial systems are essential for attracting investment and fostering sustainable growth. Our professional bodies constantly reinforce this responsibility, urging every one of us to act with independence and professional skepticism. We should be the first line of defense against financial crimes, using our unique skills to identify and report irregularities before they cause widespread damage.

But let’s be honest. The history of corruption in the Philippines reveals instances where this trust has been betrayed. The recent “ghost” flood control and not-so-recent PDAF scandals are textbook examples of this failure. The impact of these frauds

As accountants, especially those in senior leadership or on audit committees, we are in a unique position to influence an organization’s ethical culture.

is more than just financial. They leave our communities vulnerable to deadly flooding, directly costing lives and livelihoods. This is not some abstract problem; it’s a very real human tragedy.

The complicity of our fellow accountants and auditors in these crimes is a dereliction of duty. For these schemes to work, it required someone to create and approve fraudulent financial documents—falsifying vouchers, manipulating payrolls, and issuing favorable audit opinions for projects that didn’t exist. When a CPA is involved in such activities, it’s a direct betrayal of everything our profession stands for. Forensic accountants are now working tirelessly to trace these illicit financial flows, but their work is a reactive measure. This is a problem that should have been prevented by diligent and ethical accounting in the first place.

So, how do we address this? We must adopt a more proactive and holistic approach to our public interest mission. It starts in the classroom and in every accounting curriculum across the country. Beyond just teaching the technical skills, we must emphasize the moral and social dimensions of our practice.

I want my students to see themselves not as mere technicians but as ethical guardians of a system that serves society. This means fostering a robust professional skepticism, teaching them to challenge assumptions and question the information they receive, even from those in power. By instilling this curious, questioning mindset, we can prepare a new generation of professionals who are less likely to be complicit or oblivious to fraud.

Beyond education, we must strengthen our regulatory frameworks. Our professional bodies, working with the government and civil society, must enforce a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, with swift and transparent disciplinary action. I believe we need to build a permanent synergy between forensic accountants and corruption investigators to improve evidence collection and prosecution. Furthermore, we must empower whistleblowers with

legal protection so as to create a cultural shift where blowing the whistle is not seen as an act of disloyalty but as a courageous fulfillment of one’s civic duty.

And finally, we must embrace our role in promoting good corporate governance. As accountants, especially those in senior leadership or on audit committees, we are in a unique position to influence an organization’s ethical culture.

By advocating for strong internal controls and transparent reporting, we can make it incredibly difficult for corruption to take root. This moves our function from mere compliance to active prevention. The rise of sustainability and ESG reporting also gives us a new way to serve the public interest, holding organizations accountable for their broader societal and environmental responsibilities. As my colleagues Garry Carnegie and others have articulated, our work can enable the “flourishing of organizations, people and nature.”

These corruption scandals are a wake-up call for our profession. By reforming our education, strengthening our institutions, empowering our colleagues, and actively promoting good governance, we can reclaim our role as vital guardians of financial integrity. This is not just about technical solutions, it’s about renewed commitment to the moral and social contract that underpins our entire profession. It is my hope that we can truly fulfill our mission and build a more transparent, accountable, and just Philippines for all.

Arnel Onesimo O. Uy is a Full Professor at the Department of Accountancy of the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University (DLSU). He is also the holder of the William and Dolores Bowler Chair in Accounting. He can be reached at arnel.uy@delasalle.ph.

The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.

RAILWAY CONFERENCE. The Philippine Railways Institute (PRI) and key industry stakeholders convene for the 3rd Philippine Railway Conference (PhilRailCon 2025), a premier event for collaboration and innovation within the country’s rail sector. Held at the Philippine Trade Training Center Global MSME Academy, the conference focused on the theme, ’Advancing Resilient and Smart Rail Operation and Maintenance for Sustainability of the Philippine Railway System.’

RICE FACILITY TURNOVER. Department of Agriculture officials on Tuesday lead the formal turnover of a P70.2 million rice processing facility to farmers in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro - one of the country’s major rice-producing towns.

IN BRIEF

131 power firms yet to comply with required listing under EPIRA

By Alena Mae S. Flores

NEARLY 131 power generating companies (gencos) with a combined capacity of 13,595 megawatts (MW) have yet to comply with the listing requirement of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA).

Section

Data from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) showed that the non-compliant companies represent 49.62 percent of all gencos. Only 40 companies, with a combined capacity of 3,690 MW, or 15.15 percent of the

Maya launches new credit card security model

By Darwin G. Amojelar

MAYA, the country’s largest financial technology company and number one digital bank, has launched a new credit card security model that gives customers direct control over protecting their accounts.

The security model is built around the Maya Black credit card, which is numberless, has a card verification value (CVV) that refreshes with every use inside the app and includes a built-in security center that lets users instantly freeze activity, set limits or block transactions.

The launch sets a new standard for customer protection in Philippine banking, where many institutions still use hotline-driven processes. By making security a visible feature, not just an unseen safeguard, Maya aims to give Filipinos the confidence to use credit daily.

“Security should not feel complicated—it should give peace of mind,” said Shailesh Baidwan, group president of Maya and co-founder of Maya Bank.

“We’re giving customers simple, powerful tools to protect themselves in real time. When people know they are in control, they are more confident to use credit and grow with it,” Baidwan said.

The Maya Black card’s protections are further reinforced by biometric logins, one-time passwords and artificial intelligence-driven fraud monitoring. Maya is the first in the country to combine user-facing controls with enterprise-grade defenses in one integrated digital banking experience.

total, have complied. The listing rule is not applicable to the remaining 90 gencos for various reasons.

ERC chairman Francis Saturnino Juan said during a recent open commission meeting that the regulator would review the public offering requirement (POR) rules to boost compliance.

“Because of the requirement in

Section 43 (t), you have to publicly offer and sell,” Juan said.

“So it might appear that even if we will consider the registration of securities as a form of compliance, still that will not be really compliant with the requirement,” he said.

He said the rules should be aligned with the objective of “ensuring the restructuring and modernization of the power industry.”

Juan acknowledged that not all gencos meet the requirements for a PSE listing.

“If we will push for compliance with that through PSE listing, we have to prioritise those gencos that have already the requirements or that are already in possession of the qualifications for them to be able to publicly list,” he said.

He warned that gencos that struggle to register and sell their securities may not comply with the law. If these gencos fail to secure a certificate of compliance from the ERC, Juan cautioned, the country risks losing 50 percent of its installed power capacity.

Juan previously said that indiscriminately enforcing the POR on all gencos—from micro-sized installations to power conglomerates whose parent company can afford public listing—would not only defeat Section 43(t)’s objectives but would also be anti-competitive, imposing additional barriers to entry, benefiting a handful of generators, discriminating against others and ultimately increasing electricity costs without commensurate economic benefits.

at

DOTr chief orders Iloilo airport to streamline security, expand facilities

DEPARTMENT of Transportation (DOTr) acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez has ordered Iloilo International Airport to remove its initial security screening process to free up more space for passengers and ease congestion.

The directive follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s order to enhance passenger travel experience by improving processes and facili-

ties across all nationwide airports.

Lopez, who conducted an inspection at the airport on Saturday, gave airport management a 15-day deadline to submit an action plan for the new policy. He said the initial screening was redundant and stressed the need to allocate more space for travelers, preventing crowding in the check-in area.

The final security check before

PH hosts ASEAN farm and forestry ministers meeting

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippines, through the Department of Agriculture (DA), will host the 47th Meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (AMAF) and related events from Sept. 29 to Oct. 3, 2025, in Pasay City.

One of ASEAN’s five founding members, the Philippines last hosted AMAF in September 2015 in Makati City.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. will chair the high-level sessions, which will tackle regional

cooperation in food, agriculture and forestry.

“We anticipate a meaningful and productive gathering, particularly as AMAF works to craft a new roadmap that will shape agricultural and forestry policies across the region for the next decade,” Tiu Laurel said.

“This effort aligns with ASEAN’s broader vision of becoming a single market and production base,” he said.

The Philippines will preside over several major sessions, including the 47th AMAF meeting, the 25th AMAF Plus Three meeting (with China, Japan and South Korea) and the second ASEAN-Japan Ministers on Agricul-

ture and Forestry Meeting (AJMAF).

Recognized as ASEAN’s highest decision-making body on agriculture and forestry, AMAF brings together agriculture ministers and senior officials from all 10 member-states: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Ministers from China, Japan and South Korea will also join the Plus Three sessions. Timor-Leste, which was accepted “in principle” as an ASEAN member in 2022, is expected to participate, alongside dialogue partners and international stakeholders.

boarding gates will remain in place to maintain airport security, Lopez assured passengers. Lopez also instructed management to finalize plans for expanding the airport’s passenger terminal building. He ordered the fast-tracking of automated checkin with facial recognition to ease congestion, particularly during peak hours. Lopez affirmed the government’s commitment to modernize regional airports, stating that passengers “deserve the best travel experience.” Lopez also directed Iloilo Airport to focus on runway improvements to accommodate larger aircraft, which would boost the airport’s capacity for international flights.

GLOBE’S Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) held its largest learning session to date, engaging more than 3,500 students at Baliwag Polytechnic College (BTech). The session aims to promote digital literacy and equip the youth with necessary skills for the digital world.

“This is the largest DTP session we’ve ever held in the country,” said Globe chief sustainability and corporate communications officer Yoly Crisanto.

“By reaching thousands of students in one event, we are empowering them not just to be responsible digital citizens but also to seize the opportunities of tomorrow’s digital economy,” she said.

Four Globe DTP ambassadors led the session, which

covered online safety, cybersecurity awareness, responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) and an introduction to blockchain. The program combines practical lessons on responsible digital citizenship with insights on emerging technologies to help students navigate the digital space.

Cybersecurity threats in the Philippines are rising. The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) recorded more than 3,000 cybercrime complaints in one year, an average of about eight incidents reported daily.

These incidents include online scams, fake job offers, phishing links that steal personal details, and deepfake videos and voice clones used to trick victims into sending money.

NHMFC BONDS. The National Home Mortgage Finance Corp. wraps its 7th securitization offering valued

P1.3

REAL ESTATE

Cresendo fuels

Tarlac’s business hub emergence

AYALA Land Inc’s (ALI) estate in Tarlac is gaining traction as more investors and businesses move into Cresendo, its 290-hectare mixed-use development that is rapidly becoming the city’s new downtown and a regional business hub.

First launched in 2011, Cresendo is backed by an ₱18-billion capital expenditure plan aimed at transforming it into a world-class industrial and commercial center. Today, that vision is taking shape as commercial and industrial lots continue to attract strong demand.

ALI said phases 1 and 2 of Cresendo’s commercial lots have sold out, prompting the launch of Phase 3, worth ₱4.4 billion.

Its 32-hectare industrial park, which will house light-to-medium, nonpolluting industries, is also 98

percent sold, with locators expected to create about 2,000 jobs once operations begin.

Cresendo’s growth aligns with Tarlac’s strong economic momentum.

The province recorded a 6.7 percent GDP (gross domestic product) growth rate, faster than the national average. The strong growth was fueled by major infrastructure links such as the SCTEX and proximity to Clark International Airport. Rising household incomes and urban migration have also contributed to sustained property demand.

Retail Brands and Institutions Moving In Cresendo has attracted several national brands in recent months. McDonald’s has opened its first “Green & Good” sustainable store in Tarlac. MerryMart Supermarket and 7-Eleven are already operational, and Don Bosco Tarlac has expanded its education programs to include Senior High School and technical-vocational courses.

Live where you work: Ajoya Shophouses make it possible

FOR many entrepreneurs, finding the right environment to balance work and life is just as important as building a profitable business.

In Central Luzon, Ajoya Shophouses by Aboitiz Land offer a rare opportunity: a space where you can run your business downstairs and live comfortably upstairs, all within a vibrant and growing community. This unique setup does not only eliminate the daily commute but also creates an ecosystem where lifestyle and livelihood are seamlessly integrated.

Each Ajoya Shophouse is a thoughtfully designed three-storey property with at least 99 sqm of space, giving entrepreneurs the freedom to operate their business on the ground floor while enjoying the privacy of a full home above.

“Ajoya Shophouses serve a dual-purpose: a comfortable home upstairs, and a spacious business space downstairs,” Aboitiz Land said. This makes the setup ideal for entrepreneurs who want the convenience of managing their business just steps away from home.

Because all units are readyfor-occupancy, entrepreneurs and investors can move in and start their operations right away, a major advantage for those looking to generate returns quickly.

“As all shophouses are ready-foroccupancy, prospective investors and business owners are also offered an opportunity to immediately see returns on their investment or start their business as soon as possible for faster returns,” Aboitiz Land said.

Unlike commercial spaces located in isolated areas, Ajoya Shophouses are located within Ajoya Town Plazas, the central hubs of each Ajoya development, surrounded by a growing number of residents and everyday foot traffic.

Entrepreneurs in Ajoya are not moving into empty neighborhoods, but into fully master-planned and thriving communities which means that businesses are assured to have ready customers and foot traffic to aid in sustaining their business.

“With a shophouse in any of the Ajoya projects within Central Luzon, aspiring entrepreneurs have a chance to be one of the first establishments to set roots near their home, fostering the idea of a community store that will quickly endear to the homeowners inside,” Aboitiz Land said.

New lifestyle and dining spots such as 21st Bean Café, Velvet Vibes, and MiPanda are also set to open, increasing foot traffic and boosting Cresendo’s appeal as a community destination.

“The speed of take-up reflects strong confidence in Tarlac’s potential as the next commercial hub north of Metro Manila,” said Clarence Carcellar, project development manager for Cresendo.

SM HOTELS and Convention Centers (SMHCC), the hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., (SM Prime) has upcycled more than 10,000 yards of used hotel linens under its sustainability initiative, ‘Tela Tales’. The volume is equivalent to the fabric needs of more than 500 hotel rooms, underscoring how circular design can create both environmental and social impact.

Launched in 2024, ‘Tela Tales’ transforms discarded bedsheets, banquet linens and towels into handcrafted products such as bags, home items and its newest line –Snuggle Mates plush toys. The toys, designed by social enterprise brand Brave Story, feature 11 animal characters inspired by SMHCC’s properties nationwide.

These include Bamboo the panda for Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Ozzy the bear for Taal Vista Hotel, Lori the parrot for Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club and Pau the turtle for Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, among others.

‘Tela Tales’ products are sewn by 55 women volunteers from partner communities in Tagaytay, Nasugbu, Bacolod, Iloilo and Quezon City. Part of the proceeds directly support local livelihoods, while the program itself reduces waste and diverts materials from landfills. Even prior to ‘Tela Tales’, SMHCC had avoided disposal of linens by donating them to charities or distributing them during calamities.

Community Spaces Add Life and Value Beyond business, ALI has built civic and lifestyle features to support community development.

A 1.5-hectare town plaza, a multipurpose field, and a themed garden are now active venues for events like Al Fresco Nights, which celebrate local businesses and talent.

“These community events not only bring people together but also strengthen the value proposition for investors and locators,” said Christine Enriquez-Yabao, Ayala Land Estates’ marketing manager for Central Luzon and business synergies.

SMHCC turns used linens into community livelihood

“To date, the program has produced more than 1,000 upcycled items and received recognition from local governments in Iloilo, Bacolod and other cities for its contribution to waste reduction and inclusive community partnerships,” said Leah Magallanes, SMHCC Vice President for Sustainability and Quality. Moving forward, SMHCC plans to expand ‘Tela Tales’ to more locations and introduce new product lines, including travel accessories and seasonal collections.

The initiative also aligns with SMHCC’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals. Beyond cutting storage and disposal costs, ‘Tela Tales’ deepens employee engagement, promotes sustainable practices in operations and strengthens long-term ties with local communities.

Robinsons Summit Center offers flexible workspaces in prime location

Court denies TAPE appeal in ‘Eat Bulaga’ copyright case

THE Court of Appeals has denied the appeal of Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE) in the copyright case filed by Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon, otherwise known as TVJ.

On Sunday, Sept. 28, a statement from Senate President Tito Sotto’s office said the court confirmed that TAPE is not the owner of the recordings and jingles of the noontime show Eat Bulaga and that it used them without permission. The court ordered TAPE to pay P2 million in temperate damages, P500,000 in exemplary damages, and P500,000 in attorney’s fees.

“The decision upholds the earlier ruling recognizing TVJ as the copyright owners of the materials in question,” the statement read. In December 2023, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) also canceled TAPE’s registration of the trademarks “Eat Bulaga” and “EB.”

The three hosts left Eat Bulaga on May 31, 2023, after a dispute with TAPE. The case has since become part of a wider legal fight between the hosts and the production company over the rights to the country’s longest-running noontime program.

Showbiz newcomer makes daring, campy debut in ‘Isla Babuyan’

BRITISH-FILIPINA

newcomer Geraldine Jennings makes her screen debut in Isla Babuyan, a family drama with campy turns and daring scenes that earned it an R-18 rating from the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB).

Jennings admitted the rating caught her off guard. “When we first heard about it, of course, it was a bit disappointing. My first reaction was, ‘R18, really? Are they sure they watched the same movie?’” she said during the film’s press premiere. “But R18 doesn’t always mean scandalous. Sometimes it just means real and relevant. And that’s what this film is for sure.”

The film, directed by Jose Abdel Langit, written by Jessie Villabrille, and produced by Solid Gold Entertainment, opens Oct. 1 exclusively at Robinsons Movieworld cinemas.

The story follows Anastasia (Jennings), who returns to the island where her mother, Rose (Lotlot de Leon), runs a resort named Paraiso. Raised in the United Kingdom by a British father and Filipina mother, Anastasia seeks to reconnect with her roots while dealing with strained family ties.

On the island, she meets friends, experiences first love, and confronts conflicts that test her relationship with her mother. Jameson Blake plays Jordan, who shows interest in Anastasia. Dave Bornea’s Caloy is written as her long-time admirer, while James Blanco portrays David, linked to Rose in a complicated way. Nathalie Hart and Paolo Gumabao appear as Margaux and Javier, with Gumabao drawing notice for a nude scene.

Jennings said that despite such mo

mother and daughter,” she said.

The script ties together several arcs: the longing of a daughter for her mother’s acceptance, the tension in Rose’s past relationship, and the rivalries among younger characters.

The pacing starts slow with introductions but picks up as the story develops. Cinematography presents Isla Babuyan as both scenic and harsh. The tone is campy, with soap-style turns and exaggerated drama, which may divide audiences. Some scenes run longer than needed, but the motherdaughter story keeps the film steady.

The project also honors the late talent manager Leo Dominguez who discovered Jennings’ potential as both singer and actress and had promised her mother, Gina , that he would guide her career when the time came. That promise was fulfilled through this film.

Jennings shows potential in her first role, handling both emotional and lighter scenes. De Leon anchors the film with experience, while the ensemble cast supports the layered plot.

Is Heart Evangelista losing brand endorsements?

Evangelista has hit back at online claims that brands dropped her as an ambassador, calling it pure fake news

The actress and fashion maven even got an ally in GMA Network’s Attorney Annette Gozon-Valdes, who dismissed the reports. Meanwhile, Heart’s management, Sparkle Artist Center, blasted an article suggesting two brands saw weaker sales.

“Fake news alert! This is not true. Don’t be fooled by fake news!” the Her numbers speak for themselves: 16.2 million followers on Instagram, 7.5 million on Facebook, and 7.9 million on Coming from the family of the

Ongpaucos, who built Barrio Fiesta, and the del Gallegos, who own a sugar plantation in Camarines Sur, Heart spent part of her childhood in the U.S. before rising as an actress, singer, artist, and now a fashion icon.

On Instagram Live, she didn’t mince words.

“The sad reality at this point, it’s very hurtful that as an independent woman like myself… goddammit, I am so independent… I am so hardworking, and I have pride in what I do. I’m not the type of wife na nakatanga lang ako sa bahay, at nakikipag-chikahan lang ako sa amiga I work. I refuse to just be a useless wife at home. I will continue to work,” she said. This season, the Kapuso star announced

she will skip Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks, apologizing to fans who expected to see her in the front row.

“I know you guys say ‘laban, laban,’ and I appreciate you. But honestly, I don’t think it’s the right time for us to be going to Fashion Week. We need to open our eyes, empathize, and truly see what’s going on,” she said. It won’t be forever — she teased a return “maybe next season.” Her marriage to

From left: Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon, collectively known as TVJ, win the copyright case against TAPE over Eat Bulaga materials

Geraldine Jennings (right) and Jameson Blake in a still from their new film

Geraldine Jennings (left) shares a scene with Paolo Gumabao in ‘Isla Babuyan’

The stellar cast of the movie directed by Jose Abdel Langit

SCREEN COUPLE. Jameson Blake (left) and Geraldine Jennings share a few intimate scenes in the campy sexy drama

Catriona Gray finds joy in steps toward wellness

By Angelica Villanueva

WMISS Universe 2018 Catriona

Gray admitted she was never much of a runner. But earlier this year, she found herself lacing up with friends and discovering the joy of moving her body outdoors.

“I love the feeling of being outside, moving my body, and being part of a community. It’s fun and it doesn’t have to be competitive,” the beauty queen said.

Known for her poise onstage and her advocacy work in education, women’s rights, and mental health, Catriona has taken on a new mission of promoting healthier and more mindful living.

At “LOHAS Days 2025,” held Sept. 12 to Sept. 14 at Ayala Malls Market! Market! in Taguig City, Catriona was formally introduced as the official Taiwan LOHAS advocate, a role she described as both personal and empowering.

“I’ve always admired Taiwan for being a leader in championing better health and wellness. Seeing LOHAS being shared here in the Philippines is an empowering reminder that living a healthy, sustainable lifestyle

HEN chemistry student and young entrepreneur Caitlin Lee first tasted a peanut butter matcha latte at a small café in Lille, France, she knew she had found something special.

“It was like the perfect sip. The ratio of peanut butter and matcha together was just right,” Caitlin recalled. That memory stayed with her long after her exchange student program ended. Today, it lives on through Maison Midori, her own matcha brand that debuted in the Philippines with the goal of introducing what she calls “good matcha” to local drinkers.

By combining “maison,“ house” in French and “midori,” green in Japanese, the brand’s name reflects her aim of offering authentic Japanese matcha within a concept that feels both welcoming and international.

For Caitlin, a good quality matcha begins at the source. She explained that not all green tea leaves qualify as matcha, only those grown under shade to boost chlorophyll and amino acids can be considered the real thing.

“I think every matcha is different since it has a lot of cultivars. But I think what makes it a good matcha is how it’s grown. And actually, the location is very important. Where matcha is grown, how they cover it. Because the green matcha and the green leaves that you see in the matcha farm, it’s actually not matcha. It’s green tea. So, the ones covered are matcha. And that is how they actually measure how good matcha is,” she told Manila Standard Lifestyle

Maison Midori currently sources from Uji, the historic birthplace of matcha, and Wazuka, a rising region in Japan that has been gaining attention for its farms. Its first release, the Tenshi variant from the Samidori cultivar, was designed to be an approachable, everyday matcha. Another variant, Mariaca, offers a more floral profile, with what some describe as a subtle corn-like aftertaste.

While her products have started to gain traction at

is something we can all embrace,” Catriona shared.

During the event, she stressed that wellness doesn’t have to come from grand gestures or expensive habits.

“A healthy, sustainable, and mindful way of living is achievable for everyone if we just find ways to integrate it into our everyday routines. It doesn’t need to cost anything. Sometimes it’s as simple as bringing a water tumbler, going for a run with friends, or taking time to move your body,” she continued.

She recounted how her approach to fitness has evolved, confessing that she only discovered running not long ago. Encouraged by friends, she began spending more time outdoors and found a version of wellness rooted in movement, companionship, and enjoyment rather than pressure. For her, it was proof that small, steady habits can make healthier living accessible without drastic changes.

Her message tied in with LOHAS Days, a three-day event by Taiwan Excellence that put the spotlight on health and sustainability. The festival featured free fitness classes,

wellness talks, and exhibits from 17 Taiwanese brands. Among the highlights were the ATUNAS Green Fitness Series made from recycled materials, the BESV Folding e-Bike, and the JKFITNESS AeroWork Desk Treadmill, all designed to support healthier, more sustainable lifestyles.

Stirring Manila’s next matcha obsession

By lending her voice to Taiwan’s LOHAS campaign, Gray said she hopes to inspire Filipinos to see wellness as something practical and inclusive.

“It’s

Paris Fashion Week to showcase industry makeover with string of debuts

PARIS Fashion Week kicks off on Monday with a dozen new faces set to make their debuts at major labels, including Matthieu Blazy at Chanel.

Reflecting an unprecedented shake-up of creative directors, the Spring-Summer 2026 season will showcase the renewal of the top ranks of the global luxury clothing industry on a scale rarely seen.

The sector, facing a slowdown in spending from the world’s elite, is banking on the changes to infuse fresh excitement and hopefully boost sales.

“We’re opening a new chapter, not so much for Fashion Week itself, but for what fashion will be over the next 10 years,” said Pierre Groppo, fashion editor-in-chief of Vanity Fair magazine in France.

Although the first Chanel show by

Matthieu Blazy is expected to be the biggest highlight, the VIPs and fashionistas jostling for highly coveted invitations will have to wait until the penultimate day on Oct. 6 to glimpse the 41-year-old.

The Franco-Belgian, poached from Kering-owned Bottega Veneta, faces the daunting task of modernizing Chanel’s identity and turning the page on the Karl Lagerfeld era of more than three decades.

The “Kaiser” defined the hugely profitable brand up to his death in 2019 and was succeeded by his long-time coworker Virginie Viard, who was seen as a successful continuity candidate. Blazy, who first caught the eye as a designer at Maison Martin Margiela, took one of the most coveted spots in

the fashion business in December after regenerating Bottega Veneta and its signature handwoven “intreccio” leather patterns. Another hotly awaited moment will be Jonathan Anderson’s first women’s collection for LVMH-owned Dior, on Oct. 1, after the Northern Irish designer presented a well-received debut men’s line in June. Attention will also turn to Pierpaolo Piccioli at Balenciaga, who is succeeding the provocative Demna, and to Duran Lantink at Jean Paul Gaultier, the brand’s first permanent artistic director since its founder retired in 2020.

For Claire Thomson-Jonville, editorial director of Vogue France, “the massive arrival of new creative directors is the sign

bazaars

admitted she has her own dream flavor.

“Personally, I want something nutty, chocolatey, strong. Even bitter matcha, I don’t mind,” shared the young entrepreneur. Finding the right farm to produce that taste, however, has proven to be a challenge. Caitlin, now in her fourth year studying chemistry with a minor in business at De La Salle University, is frank about the challenges of balancing school and entrepreneurship.

“It’s really hard. But with my family and friends, they help me a lot. They’d even man the booths during bazaars if I have exams. I’m really thankful for that support system,” she explained. Her brand arrives at a time when matcha is enjoying a surge in popularity among cafés in Manila and beyond. For her, that excitement only fuels her passion.

“When I was planning Maison Midori, matcha was already rising. I really wanted to share my love for it and introduce what matcha really is,” added Caitlin. For now, customers can find Maison Midori at pop-up events, including bazaars in Rockwell this October and December, or order directly through its website. Prices start at P990 for a 40-gram pack. Looking ahead, Caitlin hopes to open a café of her own—a passion project that would bring her vision full circle.

“Hopefully soon. It’s one of my dreams. I really want a space where people can enjoy good matcha every day,” she stated.

Catriona Gray is named as Taiwan Excellence’s ‘LOHAS’ advocate

Beauty queen-host Catriona Gray (rightmost) pose a photo together with Taiwan Excellence executives during LOHAS Days 2025

Models walk the runway at Paris Fashion Week

Maison Midori founder Caitlin Lee (center) shares her journey of bringing authentic matcha to Manila

Matcha is freshly poured into a latte during Maison Midori’s launch

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

ON a recent business trip to Davao over a weekend, somebody suggested that I try out Acacia Hotel in Lanang District, where my various meetings were centered. It was my first stay at this hotel and, right away, the warm welcome from its staff made me feel like a king.

Part of the Acacia Hotels network, with sister properties in Manila and Bacolod, the hotel is renowned for its signature brand of “Simply Heartfelt Filipino Hospitality.”

Upon getting into my room, I knew right away I was going to have a relaxing and enjoyable stay, especially when I read the welcome letter on the table in my suite, signed by the hotel manager, Daffodil Bahani. What else could I have asked for? It was a weekend charmed by a beautiful flower.

Acacia Hotel Davao has 260 rooms,

Davao hotel puts Filipino

hospitality at the forefront

SMHCC turns 10,000 yards of hotel linens into plush toys and livelihoods

room massage and spa treatments, which I availed of on my last day at the hotel. What I enjoyed most about my room was the hotel’s trademark Dream Bed, the most comfortable hotel bed I’ve ever been on. No joke, in less than a minute after I lay down, I was in dreamland.

The hotel offers several dining options like the Waling-Waling Café, where the complimentary buffet breakfast is served; Luk Foo Palace, where I enjoyed my favorite dim sum and other Cantonese culinary specialties; Lobby Lounge for some coffee and light snacks; and the Venado Pool Bar, where refreshing cocktails are served day and night.

But I have to declare that my best experience at the hotel was when I feasted on their “Special of the Month.” One morning, when I was walking from the hotel lobby toward the elevators, I saw the poster of their special offering for the month.

Just by looking at the photo of the dish, I wanted to have it right away, so I decided to order it through room service and enjoy it in the privacy of my room. The dish was labeled “Overload

SM Hotels and Convention Centers (SMHCC), the hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings, has given more than 10,000 yards of discarded hotel linens a second life through its upcycling program “Tela Tales.”

Launched in 2024, the initiative transforms used bedsheets, banquet linens, and towels into handcrafted bags, home items, and, most recently, a collection of plush toys called Snuggle Mates.

Designed by social enterprise Brave Story, the toys feature 11 animal characters inspired by SMHCC properties nationwide—from Bamboo the panda of Lanson Place Mall of Asia to Ozzy the bear of Taal Vista Hotel and Lori the parrot of Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club.

The products are stitched by 55 women volunteers from communities in Tagaytay, Nasugbu, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Quezon City, with proceeds directly supporting local livelihoods. Each item, officials said, also diverts textile waste from landfills.

“To date, the program has produced more than 1,000 upcycled items and received recognition from local governments in Iloilo, Bacolod, and other cities for its contribution to waste reduction and inclusive community partnerships,” said Leah Magallanes, SMHCC vice president for sustainability and quality.

SMHCC previously redirected linens by donating them to charities or distributing them during calamities. The company now plans to expand Tela Tales to more locations, adding travel accessories and seasonal collections to its lineup.

The initiative, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, cuts disposal costs, boosts employee engagement, and strengthens partnerships with local communities—all while giving old linens a fresh chapter in Filipino households.

Lomi Batangas,” and it lived up to its name. It was served in a huge bowl overloaded with thick miki noodles, with an indulgent mix of chicken, pork belly, kikiam, chicken liver, squid balls, pork chicharron, hard-boiled eggs, garlic, carrots, cabbage, and onions, all in a rich, savory chicken stock, seasoned with salt and pepper and thickened with cornstarch.

To add further to its flavor, there was soy sauce, kalamansi, and siling labuyo on the side. I was in seventh heaven, enjoying every mouthful of it. Later in the day, I learned from the staff that the dish is very popular among their hotel guests. I hope the management decides to keep it permanently on the menu in their all-day dining restaurant.

As if he knew that I have a sweet tooth and that I am scheduled to visit Davao again toward the end of the year, the hotel’s marketing manager, Jerce Rycil Luy, showed me photos of their yearender “Flavors of the Season.” Their Red Velvet Cheer Cake (shown on this page) is a holiday twist on the classic Red Velvet Cake, and looking at it from any angle makes me want to have a bite right away.

To end the year right, the hotel banners its special cocktail mixes: the bluecolored Winter Fizz, which is a mix of vodka, egg white, and blue Curacao, garnished with a slice of lemon; and the Sassy Citrus Mocktail, a soothing combination of cranberry juice, honey syrup, and grenadine, topped with a slice of orange. I’m sure either of these refreshing drinks would be a good way to reenergize ourselves and end the year on a vibrant high note.

Looking back at the many things I enjoyed at Acacia Hotel Davao, I consider myself very lucky to have experienced its “Simply Heartfelt brand of Filipino hospitality.” And, as I said earlier, how can any hotel go wrong when a beautiful blossom, the Daffodil, is there to brighten each day! More information on Acacia Hotel Davao may be obtained from (082) 298 8088 or through reservations@ acaciahotelsdavao.com.

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YOUR WEEKEND CHUCKLE: Need an ark? I Noah guy. ----------O----------For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@ gmail.com

Filipino-made rum captures taste buds worldwide, returns to local shelves

A FILIPINO-MADE spiced rum that has collected medals from San Diego to Europe has finally landed in the Philippines.

Especia Spiced Rum, a golden-amber spirit crafted from locally sourced molasses and natural spices, first appeared in the United States before making its way to Europe. It has since won 18 medals worldwide, earning praise for its balance of tradition and innovation.

At its debut at the San Diego Spirits Festival, Especia claimed Double Gold, impressing judges with its aromas and warm finish. Soon after, it secured a Gold Medal and the coveted “Best in Category” honor at the New Orleans Spirits Competition, cementing its place among the world’s top spiced rums.

Even earlier, Especia had earned a Silver Medal and an 82-point score at the Bartender Spirits Awards in 2022, a recognition from industry professionals that affirmed its spiced profile as a global standout. In 2023, European publication Falstaff awarded it 87 points, highlighting its burnt caramel and vanilla notes layered with spices and a dry, refined finish.

Together, these accolades tell the story of a rum that has gained respect in just a short span of time, bringing pride to its Filipino roots.

Aged for up to seven years in ex-bourbon barrels, Especia offers depth and smoothness while carrying the heritage of Filipino rummaking. Its golden-amber hue and aroma of cinnamon, honey, and ginger are softened by vanilla and burnt caramel. On the palate, it delivers tropical fruits, baking spices, caramel, and honey, with a balanced, lingering finish.

Bottled at 40 percent ABV (80 proof), Especia is designed to be enjoyed neat, mixed in cocktails, or as a celebratory toast.

Especia’s rise builds on the reputation of Tanduay, its parent company, which has been

named the world’s best-selling rum brand for eight consecutive years, ahead of global competitors Bacardi and Captain Morgan.

“We are proud that a Philippine brand is performing well on the global stage,” said Roy Kristoffer Sumang, Tanduay’s international business development manager.

“This recognition reflects the hard work of our teams and the continued trust of our consumers worldwide.”

With its arrival in the Philippines, Especia gives local drinkers the chance to try a spirit Especia Rum is now available in Shots.

Especia Spiced Rum, a Filipino-made award-winning spirit, returns to local shelves after global acclaim

Women volunteers in Bacolod learn embroidery technique as part of the ‘Tela Tales’ program

Snuggle Mates, made from upcycled hotel linens, showcases SMHCC’s sustainable initiative

The pool, which serves as an entrance to its wellness area, is one of the hotel’s leisure highlights

The spacious living area of the Executive Room highlights Acacia Hotel Davao’s modern comforts

The Executive Room at Acacia Hotel Davao offers scenic views of the city

The Lobby Lounge welcomes guests with elegance and comfort

The hotel facade of Acacia Hotel Davao at dusk