By Vito Barcelo and Ram Superable
Ombudsman readies graft raps
By Rio N. Araja and Pot Chavez
NEWLY-appointed Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said he will file graft charges before the Sandiganbayan “in the next few weeks” against those behind anomalous flood control projects.
“That’s for sure. Just like the flood control project, that is an open and shut case. That’s not rocket science. We really can hold those involved liable,” Remulla said in a television interview. “We have already gathered many pieces of evidence. We will really do our best to build up (the cases) because we do not want to be the cause of delay,” he added.
He said filing of cases will be based on the evidence and will not be personality-based.
“Within the next few weeks when we have filed (the cases), we would then be ready for trial so it would (start with a) preliminary investigation but that would continue to go on,” Remulla said.
“It is not about who but what the case is all about, what evidence would there be…We will not look at personalities if they have high (positions) or low,” he said.
By Rex Espiritu and Katrina Manubay
By Ram Superable
Israel, Hamas to release hostages
SHARM el Sheikh, Egypt—Israel and Hamas on Thursday agreed a Gaza ceasefire deal to free the remaining living hostages, in a major step towards ending a war that has killed tens of thousands of people and unleashed a humanitarian catastrophe.
Israel’s cabinet will meet at 15:00
GMT (11:00 p.m. Philippine time) to discuss a plan for the release of all hostages, while a deal should be signed later Thursday in Egypt, where indirect negotiations are underway.
The agreement follows a 20-point peace plan for Gaza announced last month by US President Donald Trump, under which Israel should withdraw from Gaza and release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the hostages.
After more than two years of war sparked by Hamas’s October 2023 attack on Israel, the deal also envisions
a surge of aid into Gaza, where the UN has declared famine.
The Israeli army said it was preparing to pull back troops in Gaza, in line with the agreement, while the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the agreement would only take effect with cabinet approval.
Trump’s plan also calls for the disarmament of Hamas and for Gaza to be ruled by a transitional authority headed by the US president himself, though these points have yet to be addressed in any discussions.
A source within Hamas told Agence France Presse (AFP) the group will
exchange 20 living hostages all at the same time for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners as part of the deal’s first phase, with the swap to happen within 72 hours of its implementation.
“The 72-hour countdown will begin only after the agreement is approved in the cabinet meeting, which is expected in the evening hours,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said.
‘Tears of joy’
The announcement sparked waves of joy in Gaza, much of which has been flattened by bombardment and most of whose residents have been displaced at least once over the past two years.
“Honestly, when I heard the news, I couldn’t hold back. Tears of joy flowed. Two years of bombing, terror, destruction, loss, humiliation, and the constant feeling that we could die
in oblivion,” he said.
agencies to ensure transparency and accountability in public works projects, particularly in flood control initiatives.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has submitted its findings to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), which is overseeing the investigations, the Secretary disclosed.
Dizon also noted that the majority of the non-existent or fraudulent projects were intended for flood control.
The DPWH has partnered with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, and the National Economic and Development Authority in conducting site inspections.
Dizon said the ghost projects were scattered across the country, with a significant number located in Luzon. He vowed to hold contractors involved in the anomalous projects accountable, with possible penalties amounting to billions of pesos.
“Show-cause orders have been issued to DPWH officials and contractors, and criminal charges are being prepared,” Dizon assured.
Among the penalties facing contractors connected to ghost projects are a perpetual ban from DPWH contracts, possible charges of plunder and syndicated estafa, and potentially billions of pesos in penalties.
Meanwhile, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson yesterday said corruption in the government’s infrastructure program has become so widespread that it is easier to count those who are innocent than those who are guilty.
“Reviewing the piles of ‘classified’ DPWH documents which I shared with my staff, we all wondered aloud if the more appropriate question to ask is, ‘Who is not?’ rather than, ‘Who is guilty?’. So sad to realize how widely corrupt our government infrastructure program has gone,” he said.
The veteran lawmaker cited preliminary findings by Dizon showing that at least 421 of roughly 8,000 infrastructure projects were “ghost projects.”
Lacson also referred to reports raised by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian that over P10 billion worth of farm-to-market road projects in the 2023 and 2024 national budgets were grossly overpriced.
Some of those projects were allegedly priced as much as 23 times higher than the DPWH’s standard cost estimates.
Lacson also detailed various moneymaking schemes reportedly involving not only senior executives but also lower-ranking DPWH employees.
As this developed, the ICI has formally urged DPWH to lower the contract ceiling for regional and district engineering offices, proposing to halve the current amounts to P200 million and P75 million, respectively, from the current P400 million and P150 million ceilings.
The recommendation was contained in a letter signed by ICI Chair Andres Reyes and addressed to the DPWH Secretary, in which it was also noted that the original threshold for the LOAs was raised during the tenure of former Secretary Manuel Bonoan.
“We will ensure that we are focused on evidence even if one is a senator.... We have no choice here. That’s the evidence. Can we deny the evidence? That’s the challenge to us here, to produce the evidence,” Remulla said.
He said his office will also look into the alleged corruption involving Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp. which broke out during the Duterte administration.
“We’ll take a look at that because it seems like it’s been forgotten, buried
dahil pending pa ito sa CA. Rest assured na darating ang panahon na pwedeng nang i-disclose ang mga yan (For the time being, we cannot divulge the personalities involved because the cases are still pending with the CA),”
expected from the incident.
As a precaution, the following areas suspended classes and work:
LA UNION· Pugo – Classes at all levels and work in government offices· Bauang – Classes at all levels, public and private· Mapandan – Classes at all levels, public and private, except Mapandan National High School and Mapandan Central School
BENGUET· Baguio City – Classes from pre-school to senior high school, public and private PANGASINAN· Mangaldan –
“But these kinds of cases shouldn’t really be forgotten because we know the allegations have weight, and many are saying that something bad happened there,” he added.
Remulla formally took his oath of office yesterday in a ceremony held at the Supreme Court in Manila.
SC Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen administered Remulla’s oath in the presence of his wife and Associate Justice Antonio Kho Jr.
Remulla succeeded retired Ombudsman Samuel Martires, whose term ended in July.
David told DZMM Teleradyo.
But the AMLC is not done yet and is set to issue more freeze orders as it continues its investigation into suspicious accounts, he added.
“Patuloy na nag-iimbestiga ang AMLC para makapag-issue pa ang CA ng freeze order (We are still investigation so that the CA can issue the freeze order),” David said.
Classes at all levels, public and private, and work in government offices· Rosales – Classes at all levels, public and private· Asingan – Classes at all levels, public and private; learning to continue through modular, asynchronous, or distance learning
Phivolcs traced the tremor to three kilometers northeast of Pugo at a depth of 23 kilometers. It was felt in the quake’s epicenter as well as in Tubao and San Fernando, La Union; Baguio City and Itogon, Benguet; and Villasis, Pangasinan.
Other instrumental intensities were reported in Aringay, La Union; Sison, Lingayen, and Urdaneta, Pangasinan; Nampicuan, Nueva Ecija; and Bontoc,
in extrajudicial killings.
of the build-up of the case against Mr. Bong Go,” he said in an interview with Bilyonaryo TV.
Trillanes said Garma was no longer in Malaysia despite previous reports, and that she was currently being “processed” by the ICC team.
According to him, Garma will provide details about the government’s anti-drug operations, including an alleged system of incentives for police officers involved
at any moment,” displaced Palestinian Samer Joudeh told AFP.
In Israel, thousands of people gathered in a Tel Aviv square, many wearing stickers reading: “They’re coming back.” Others held photos of hostages still in Gaza and waved Israeli and US flags.
“We have been waiting for this day for 734 days. We cannot imagine being anywhere else this morning,” said Laurence Ytzhak, 54, a Tel Aviv resident.
The deal is being thrashed out in indirect negotiations behind closed doors in a conference centre in Sharm El-Sheikh, an Egyptian resort town on the Red Sea.
While Arab leaders including Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas said they hoped the ceasefire would lead to a permanent solution to the IsraelPalestinian conflict, there was no indication the talks were addressing any of the deeper issues at stake. AFP
In a previous interview, Remulla said should he be appointed Ombudsman, he would allow access to government officials’ statements of assets and liabilities (SALN) as long as it will not be used to harass them.
“We can provide the SALN as long as there are proper safeguards,” he said.
As for proposals to expand lifestyle checks on government workers, Remulla said he will be “guided by public sentiment.”
“I think that we can rely on the people of the Philippines to help government in advocating, in enforcing a lifestyle check,” he said.
“Definitely, there will another round of freeze orders. The fifth freeze order has just been issued. More are coming, though I cannot say if this week or next week,” David said.
The AMLC recently signed an agreement with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure to boost cooperation among agencies in the ongoing probe of anomalous flood control projects.
Mountain Province.
The Baguio City Public Information Office said City Building Official Architect Johnny Degay is coordinating with school, mall, and building administrators to ensure the structural integrity of public and private facilities following the earthquake.
Phivolcs Director Dr. Teresito Bacolcol reiterated that no aftershocks are expected and that the Pugo quake was not related to the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu last week.
Intensity IV was felt in Pugo and Tubao, La Union, and in Baguio City, while Intensity III was recorded in Itogon, Benguet; Villasis, Pangasinan; and San Fernando, La Union.
5 Ph hotels listed in 1st Michelin Keys
FIVE hotels in the Philippines debuted in The MICHELIN Guide’s first Global MICHELIN Keys Selection, a list honoring 2,457 hotels worldwide for “truly outstanding stays.”
Namely, these are Fairmont Makati and Raffles Makati in Metro Manila, Amanpulo on Pamalican Island, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort in Cebu, and Nay Palad Hideaway Siargao in General Luna.
The said Philippine hotels were each awarded One MICHELIN Key, distinguished as hotels with “a very special stay with character and exceptional service.”
According to The MICHELIN Guide, MICHELIN Keys are awarded based on five universal criteria that evaluate the overall hospitality experience rather than individual amenities. Up to Three MICHELIN Keys may be awarded to a destination for “an extraordinary stay offering the pinnacle of comfort, service, and design.”
Travelers can book directly with personalized travel expert services on the MICHELIN Guide website and app, which feature all of the platform’s hotel recommendations.
“Just as MICHELIN Stars celebrate the world’s most exceptional restaurants, MICHELIN Keys now honor hotels that offer truly remarkable stays, where design, service, and location come together to create unforgettable moments,” The MICHELIN Guide international director Gwendal Poullennec said.
major private pharmacy chains.
The initiative was designed to address a nationwide shortage of licensed pharmacists, estimated at about 27,500 by the Private Sector Advisory Council.
Under the Philippine Pharmacy Act of 2016, every pharmacy is required to have a registered pharmacist on-site, a requirement many community drugstores in rural areas struggle to meet.
The pilot program will allow licensed pharmacists to remotely supervise multiple community pharmacies using digital platforms such as telep -
He described the Duterte administration’s drug campaign as having two operational arms, one led by Senator Ronald Dela Rosa and another linked to Go.
Trillanes alleged that Dela Rosa oversaw the Philippine National Police’s “tokhang” operations that targeted alleged drug users and pushers.
He said the second branch, allegedly under Go’s supervision, carried out special operations that targeted rogue police officers and rival drug syndicates.
Trillanes claimed the killings were
harmacy and video monitoring.
Officials emphasized that while regulatory flexibility will be introduced, strict professional standards and patient safety protocols will remain in place.
The FDA will provide regulatory guidance and monitor compliance, while the Professional Regulatory Board of Pharmacy will ensure adherence to ethical and professional standards.
The program will run from 2025 to 2027 in selected areas, including Caloocan, Manila, Abra, Ilocos, La Union, Camarines Sur, Quezon, Iloilo, Negros, and Misamis.
Officials said the initiative could pave the way for modernized pharmacy services nationwide, leveraging technology to improve healthcare delivery without
connected to conflicts between Duterte’s alleged associate Michael Yang and other criminal organizations.
“Duterte’s partner was Michael Yang, and they had rivals from another syndicate, another triad. Those were the ones being killed by Bong Go’s branch,” he alleged.
Trillanes suggested that Garma helped systematize the killings at a national scale after Duterte assumed office.
Garma previously appeared before the House Quad Committee to testify on matters related to the Duterte government’s drug war.
compromising public safety. If successful, the model could be expanded to cover more localities facing health workforce shortages.
In a meeting with officials of the Liga ng mga Barangay sa Pilipinas at Malacañang, the President underscored the crucial role of the barangays in delivering frontline government services. Marcos emphasized that barangays serve as the foundation of local governance and are essential in implementing programs on public health, security and social welfare. The President directed barangay officials to coordinate with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to strengthen community lead-
He later retracted his statement, saying he “deeply regretted” the confusion and clarified that the information was based on what he believed at the time to be a credible industry report that turned out to be fictitious.
“I have since learned that the report was fictitious. My sole intent was to underscore the importance of integrity in our markets and the impact corruption can have on investor confidence,” Lim said, adding that the SEC remains committed to promoting transparency, good governance, and investor protection.
Go, a member of the economic team, said the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) confirmed that the supposed 12% market drop never happened. Citing data from August 11 to 29, he said the main PSE index fell by only 1.58%, the All Shares Index by 1.5%, and overall market capitalization by just 1.4%.
“These are easily verifiable,” Go told reporters. “You can confirm this with the PSE or any stockbroker. All these details are public knowledge.”
He also assured that investment pledges remain intact despite the controversy.
“I don’t think we have lost anything. The pledges continue to come in,” he said, noting that the first beneficiary of the CREATE MORE Act— a Korean investment worth over $1 billion—has been approved and will soon be transmitted to the Office of the President.
Go added that no investors have withdrawn from their projects amid the ongoing investigations.
“Sometimes when there is unpredictability, people might pause, but we’re confident that once this is resolved, they will all come back,” he said. With Jenniffer Austria
ership and capacity-building initiatives.
T he move aims to professionalize local governance and enhance coordination between national agencies and village officials.
The government is preparing programs that will equip barangay leaders with training on disaster response, digital governance and social services delivery. Liga ng mga Barangay officials expressed support for the administration’s goals and committed to working with the DILG on future initiatives. Further details on the capacity-building programs are expected to be announced as follow-up meetings are scheduled between the Liga ng mga Barangay officials, the DILG and other concerned agencies.
TRUTH IN THE TIME OF NOISE
EVERY minute Filipinos scroll, swipe and click through endless streams of information, they face the challenge of telling fact from fiction.
That is why the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has placed truth and transparency at the heart of governance.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) sees to it that the public is properly, accurately and timely informed.
DEVELOPING DIGITAL DEFENDERS
Through its Media and Information Literacy (MIL) campaign, the PCO is preparing Filipinos to recognize and resist disinformation. To date:
• 1,600 s tudents have been trained in factc hecking at campus caravans
• 75 fac t-check officers mobilized n ationwide
• 134 t eachers capacitated with MIL t eaching modules
The best weapon against disinformation is a citizenry that can tell fact from fiction.
REACHING MORE FILIPINOS
Finally, the Freedom of Information Program Management Office (FOI-PMO) ensures every Filipino has the right to access government data:
• 355,579 r egistered eFOI users n ationwide
• 248,958 r equests filed online and 205,921 p aper-based requests
• 98% r esponse rate, with requests p rocessed in just 8 working days
• 725 a gencies onboard the portal
Because the truth must always be accessible to the people. When lies spread fast, truth must travel faster.
ANCHORED ON TRANSPARENCY
Regular Palace briefings guarantee timely official statements and clarifications on key issues from the Office of the President and the PCO.
The BBM Podcast series gives Filipinos direct access to the President’s official sentiments on key issues—bringing leadership closer to the people.
To ensure that truth reaches every Filipino, the PCO has integrated the news gathering resources of its attached agencies: People’s Television Network, Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation, Radyo Pilipinas, Philippine Information Agency and Philippine News Agency. Working as the
Integrated State Media (ISM), these platforms operate synergistically to deliver accurate and consistent news and unified messaging across the government’s television, radio, print and digital channels. Communications workshops aligned with the administration’s 8-point socio-economic agenda capacitate and equip government information officers,
state and private media practitioners with the right tools to interpret government policies and data to better convey the status of development priorities, programs and projects that uplift the lives of Filipinos.
Through partnerships with various government agencies, the PCO also strengthens defenses against fake news and disinformation during major national events.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2025 mst.daydesk@gmail.com
IN BRIEF
Six Japanese fugitives linked to gang arrested
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested six Japanese fugitives, five of whom are allegedly connected with the notorious JP Dragon gang.
BI Fugitive Search Unit Chief Rendel Ryan Sy said the suspects were nabbed in separate operations in Bulacan, Lucena, and Candelaria, Quezon on October 7. Yukio Monde was arrested in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, on charges of forgery and fraud for allegedly using forged documents to obtain money from a bank.
In Lucena City, Norichika Harada was caught for posing as a law enforcer to scam elderly victims into surrendering ATM cards and personal data.
In Candelaria, Quezon, Nobuyuki Arima, Yano Yuya, Iwamoto Miyako, and Ayumi Osawa were apprehended for allegedly running online workstations used in scamming activities. Japanese authorities confirmed they are wanted for fraud and theft. Vito Barcelo
Hold-up gang members nabbed in Caloocan
THREE alleged gang members were arrested in Caloocan City for luring a victim through a woman and later robbing him, police said Thursday.
Northern Police District (NPD) Director Brig. Gen. Jerry Protacio said the suspects — identified only as “Jonel,” 29; “Raymond,” 40; and “Billy,” 42 — were caught with the victim’s cellphone, wallet, a pen gun, a bullet, and a knife.
The three men, believed to be members of the “Sputnik gang,” have previous cases for drug and gambling violations. Police said the woman used to lure the victim remains at large.
Lt. Col. Emmanuel Gomez said the robbery happened in a parking lot in Barangay 78 near Monumento and was reported to police after barangay officials reviewed CCTV footage. “They use females in sex or prostitution setups, then mob and rob their targets,” he said. Vince Lopez
More science schools with new PSHS law
SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Thursday said no qualified student should be denied access to quality education following the signing of the Expanded Philippine Science High School (PSHS) System Act.
The new law mandates the establishment of at least two PSHS campuses in every region to expand access to premier science and mathematics education. Under the old setup, limited campuses meant many students were turned away despite passing entrance exams. All new PSHS campuses will be supervised by the Department of Science and Technology and must be built in different provinces or cities within the same region to ensure equitable access.
According to the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), 5,807 qualified students failed to secure PSHS slots due to space shortages. Ram Superable
Palace to study short tax holiday
By Charles Dantes and Ram Superable
THE Marcos administration is assessing the feasibility of Senator Erwin Tulfo’s proposal for a one-month tax holiday, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick Go said Thursday.
Go said the suggestion is “quite a big matter” and must be thoroughly reviewed by both the Department of Finance (DOF) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
“This is quite a big matter, and I think it’s best to give the DOF and the DBM time to carefully study this proposal,” Go said during a Palace press briefing.
The idea of a tax holiday has been floated as a possible way to boost public confidence amid ongoing concerns over the anomalous flood control project controversy.
Asked whether he supports the logic behind the proposal, Go declined to take a position and reiterated the need for due diligence.
“I’d like to defer this matter to the Department of Finance and the DBM because this really has to be studied carefully,” he said. “I would hesitate to make a response that’s probably not very well thought out,” Go added.
Tulfo recently filed Senate Bill No. 1446, or the “One-Month Tax Holiday of 2025,” which aims to grant a one-time income tax exemption for Filipino workers. The tax break would apply to one payroll month following the bill’s approval, covering only compensation income. Mandatory contributions and loan deductions would still apply.
“Because of the recent revelations about alleged ghost flood control projects worth billions of pesos from
Trump names new US ambassador to the Philippines
By Ma. Katrina Mikaela Manubay
US President Donald Trump has appointed former businessman Lee Lipton as the new U.S. ambassador to the Philippines, succeeding MaryKay Carlson. In an announcement made on Thursday, October 9 (Wednesday in the U.S.),
the U.S. State Department said Lipton’s nomination has been sent to the U.S. Senate for confirmation.
Currently, Lipton serves as the interim permanent representative to the U.S. Mission to the Organization of American States, where he manages staff operations, financial resources, and interagency coordination to advance U.S. foreign policy priorities in the Western
Ratings dip for execs
By Ma. Katrina Mikaela
linked to flood control
controversy over anomalous flood control projects by the Department of Public Works and
ways (DPWH). Senate President Chiz Escudero and House Speaker Martin Romualdez both
declines in their ratings. Escudero’s
fell from 28 percent in the first quarter to 19 percent, while his trust rating dropped from 19 percent to 11 percent. Speaker Romualdez recorded the steepest decline, with approval falling from 15 percent to 7 percent and trust from 10 percent to 5 percent. The survey also revealed that senators implicated in the DPWH flood control probe saw sharp increases in unfavorability ratings: Joel Villanueva (-29%), Mark Villar (-36%), and Jinggoy Estrada (-47%).
Hemisphere. Lipton also supports U.S. engagement on regional challenges, particularly “efforts to counter malign influence from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) within the Inter-American System.”
According to his State Department profile, before entering public service, Lipton founded and led an apparel business in New York City, overseeing the
design, manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of licensed collections for global brands such as Calvin Klein, St. John Knits, and Guess. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Bryant University. Lipton and his wife of 45 years have two sons. If confirmed, Lipton will take over from Carlson, who arrived in the Philippines in July 2022.
Oslo uses outdated finance action grey list, DFA claims
By Ma. Katrina Mikaela Manubay
THE Department of Foreign Affairs
(DFA) reported that a foreign exchange counter at Oslo airport was using an outdated Financial Action Task Force (FATF) list, following reports that a Filipino traveler was denied a currency exchange.
The issue came to light after journalist Gretchen Ho shared on social media that a family member was refused the exchange of foreign currency.
In a statement released Thursday, October 9, the DFA clarified that Oslo airport was relying on an outdated list that still included the Philippines.
“The Philippines was officially removed from the FATF grey list in February 2025, and the EU grey list in August 2025, following the introduction of rigorous reforms that strengthened the integrity of the Philippines’ financial
system and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to combating financial crimes,” the statement read. The DFA said the Philippine Embassy in Oslo contacted both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway for clarification.
“The Norwegian Foreign Ministry officials committed to follow up with the Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway to update and delist the Philippines from the list of countries considered high-risk for money laundering or terrorist financing,” it added. Ho shared that a family member attempted to exchange $300, or less than P20,000, at the airport’s foreign exchange counter but was refused due to concerns about “corruption” and “money laundering” in the Philippines. Comments on her post indicated that the experience was not isolated, with other Filipinos reporting similar issues.
FOR UNDAS. Candle makers produce and pack assorted candles at the Domrose Candle Factory in Caloocan City on Thursday, October 9 ahead of the observance of Undas. Manny Palmero.
TENT CITY. The Department of Public Works and Highways continues to build tent cities in northern Cebu following the President’s directive to provide temporary shelters for quake-hit residents. So far, 93 tents house 79 families in Bogo, with portable toilets, bathing facilities, water stations, and emergency shelters in place. Similar sites are being set up in Medellin, San Remigio, and Daanbantayan.
OPINION
Enhancing energy security
DURING the Senate discussions on what later became Republic Act 12120, or the Philippine Natural Gas Industry Development Act, it was pointed out that exploration projects, once robust following the discovery of the Malampaya gas deposits in 1989, had practically ground to a halt.
What this emphasized is that vast national resources, both inland and offshore, had seemingly lost their allure for potential investors.
Several factors contributed to this, but the main deterrent is the unpredictability of future exploration projects due to unclear or non-existent regulations.
Understandably, investors were reluctant to take risks on ventures lacking clear governmental policies.
The exploration investment climate at the time could be compared to the chaotic gold rush on Mount Diwalwal, a notoriously gold-rich but highly unstable site where dreams were shattered and lives lost.
However, this period of uncertainty in exploration is almost over, thanks to the decisive action of the Department of Energy under the new leadership of Secretary Sharon Garin.
The DOE has committed to providing more incentives to service contractors, with the aim of reinvigorating investment in the upstream energy industry.
Department Circular DC2025-090017, titled “Grant of Special Allowances for Petroleum Service Contractors,” is the DOE’s move to implement longestablished constitutional mandates to protect exploration investors.
This also serves as an open invitation to those willing to invest in the vast potential of Philippine resources.
The new circular provides service contractors with special allowances deductible from gross proceeds, while preserving the government’s 60 percent share, calculated as the difference between gross income and the contractor’s operating expenses.
This will ensure a level playing field.
Operating expenses of up to 70 percent will be reimbursed, offering not just relief but also assurance to investors that the government is committed to playing its part in harnessing the country’s resources.
The government is introducing an additional allowance for marginal petroleum operations when their annual operating expenses surpass the 70 percent cost-recovery allowance.
In an effort to stimulate the exploration and production of newly discovered petroleum fields in frontier regions, the DOE is offering a 5 percent allowance on gross proceeds to the initial commercial development.
The DOE circular dated Sept. 23, 2025, states: “There is a need to offer
improved fiscal terms to service contractors to complement the other government initiatives in attracting more exploration and production companies to spur exploration activities leading to the discovery of more oil and gas fields in the country.”
If we aspire to reach greater heights, we can learn much from the successful models adopted by neighboring countries
The DOE circular further elaborates:
“Providing special allowances that allow for maximum benefits to the country and at the same time provide reasonable returns to private companies that render financial and technical services and assume all the risk of petroleum exploration will make the Philippine service contract regime more attractive to investment and improve the state of oil and gas exploration in the country.”
In line with Presidential Decree 87, or “The Oil Exploration and Development Act of 1972,” the DOE has adopted new mechanisms and strategies to effectively execute its plans and programs.
The current state of oil and gas exploration in the country is marked by lowlevel investments due to the high risk in petroleum operations.
The government emphasizes that the grant of special allowances will stimulate the inflow of foreign investment capital, which could significantly contribute to the country’s balance of payments position.
However, the DOE could also draw inspiration from the successful models implemented by Malaysia and Indonesia in offering exploration investment incentives, such as reduced tax rates, accelerated capital allowances, investment allowances, and export duty waivers.
At the same time, the DOE recognizes that the Philippines is already making steady progress in reviving exploration.
Among these are the extension of Service Contract 38 over the Malampaya field and the passage of RA 12120.
If we aspire to reach greater heights, we can learn much from the successful models adopted by neighboring countries.
But the important thing is that we have already taken decisive steps towards a more prosperous future in indigenous gas development that will ultimately redound to the benefit of the Filipino people in the years ahead. (Email: ernhil@ yahoo.com)
Spitting on the graves of Duterte’s victims
THE Senate’s resolution urging the International Criminal Court to place former president Rodrigo Duterte under house arrest carries no legal weight within the ICC’s framework. It is a hollow gesture — politically charged, legally baseless, and morally corrosive. This resolution, though cloaked in humanitarian language, betrays a profound misunderstanding of international law and a deliberate effort to serve domestic political optics. It positions Duterte not as a respondent in a crimes-against-humanity case, but as a sympathetic figure deserving comfort and protection.
The Senate’s move transforms justice into political theater — a performance designed to appease allies, project loyalty, and deflect scrutiny from institutional complicity in the drug war.
The danger lies in the conflation of politics with justice. When legislative bodies weaponize ignorance of international law to manipulate public sentiment, they erode the very notion of accountability.
EDITORIAL
PH corruption: The unfinished revolution
FOR 39 years, the arc of governance in the Philippines has been marred by scandals that cost trillions and shattered public trust.
Post-EDSA Revolution of 1986, crony networks survived.
Administrations separately faced land scams and failure to implement an honest-to-goodness land reform program; fertilizer fund scams, broadband kickbacks, and electoral fraud, earning the country a spot among Asia’s most corrupt; reforms on budget transparency and social protection were undercut by unconstitutional spending; another was abbreviated under gambling payoffs and pluner charges.
In 2016, Rodrigo Duterte promised a crackdown on even just a whiff of corruption, yet oversaw the ₱11 billion Pharmally scandal and normalized impunity through red-tagging and extrajudicial killings. Now, the ₱180 billion flood control scandal and the possible loss of ₱1 trillion in climate adaptation funds reveal
cused over justice for victims, the Senate effectively spits on the graves of thousands of Filipinos whose lives were brutally cut short.
It undermines victims’ rights, excludes them from the conversation, and weakens the Philippines’ moral standing in the global human rights arena.
The ICC is not swayed by political sentiment but by evidence and procedure.
The Senate’s gesture, therefore, is not only irrelevant to ICC proceedings but may actually reinforce the Court’s concern about political interference.
The Senate resolution betrays a profound misunderstanding of international law and a deliberate effort to serve domestic political optics
Prosecutors have previously cited threats from Duterte’s allies as evidence of a climate of intimidation toward victims and witnesses.
By prioritizing the comfort of the ac-
This resolution sends a chilling message: that political power, not justice, determines who is worthy of compassion.
Worse, the Senate’s action reframes Duterte’s narrative — from a leader accused of orchestrating mass violence to a figure worthy of protection.
In doing so, it sanitizes state brutality and signals to future leaders that accountability is negotiable. The move erases victims from the moral equation, offering neither truth nor redress — only silence in the face of impunity.
In parallel, the decision of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines to honor Duterte with an award compounds this national disgrace.
If the Senate’s resolution trivializes justice, the IBP’s gesture desecrates it.
By recognizing Duterte — the architect of a campaign that left thousands dead — the country’s premier legal institution has betrayed its own ethical foundations.
The IBP, mandated to defend the rule of law and uphold human rights, has
the scale of rot.
All this isn’t just about bad leaders. It’s about broken systems.
Political dynasties and patronage networks concentrate power and weaken accountability.
Public protests and investigative journalism are forcing accountability into the spotlight
The Ombudsman and judiciary often lack independence. Elites capture legislation, procurement, and regulation. Corruption is daily and granular—ghost employees, rigged bids, bribes for licenses.
chosen instead to celebrate the man accused of dismantling both.
This award is not a neutral act of recognition; it is a moral choice that aligns the legal establishment with power rather than principle. It rebrands state violence as public service and rewards impunity as leadership.
For the families of EJK victims — mothers who buried sons, children orphaned overnight, communities terrorized by fear — this is an unthinkable insult. It is an institution spitting on their grief and rewriting their suffering out of history.
By conferring honor on Duterte, the IBP transforms itself from a guardian of justice into an accomplice of revisionism at the very least, cover up for murder at the worst. It normalizes atrocity and erodes the public’s faith in the legal profession. What message does it send when the nation’s lawyers — those sworn to uphold the law — laud a leader under investigation for crimes against humanity?
It signals not reconciliation, but surrender.
The IBP’s award and the Senate’s resolution are twin expressions of the same moral decay: a willingness to subordi-
The global cost is steep. South Korea suspended a $503 million bridge loan over governance concerns. EU trade privileges are at risk. The Philippines ranks 114th out of 180 in Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index.
Yet resistance is gaining ground. Youth-led movements, civic coalitions, and tech-driven transparency platforms are challenging impunity.
The creation of an Independent Commission for Infrastructure and budget realignments show institutional pushback. Public protests and investigative journalism are forcing accountability into the spotlight. Corruption in the Philippines is not episodic—it’s systemic.
But the convergence of civic mobilization, media scrutiny, and international pressure could finally disrupt the cycle.
If sustained, it may restore integrity to public service and fulfill the promise of EDSA—not just freedom from tyranny, but freedom from corruption.
nate justice to politics.
Both gestures distort the narrative of accountability, weaken institutional integrity, and deepen the country’s complicity in the culture of impunity. They elevate the accused while erasing the victims — an inversion of moral order that betrays the nation’s conscience.
History will judge these acts not as demonstrations of compassion or patriotism, but as failures of courage.
True justice demands that institutions stand with the powerless, not the powerful; with the victims, not the perpetrators.
The ICC’s pursuit of truth and accountability stands in stark contrast to the Philippines’ domestic institutions, which appear eager to absolve and celebrate the very figure accused of orchestrating mass violence.
The Senate’s resolution and the IBP’s award are not isolated acts — they are symptoms of an enduring political pathology: the normalization of impunity. Both spit on the graves of victims and mock the ideals of justice they claim to defend.
The Philippines cannot rebuild its moral compass until it stops mistaking power for virtue and silence for peace. Facebook, X, Instagram, and BlueSky: tonylavs Website: tonylavina.com
Israel, Hamas agree to peace plan
CAIRO – Israel and Hamas agreed on Thursday to the first phase of a Gaza ceasefire aimed at ending a war that has killed tens of thousands, razed the Palestinian territory and unleashed a major humanitarian crisis.
The deal, to be signed Thursday, includes the release of hostages and prisoners as well as a surge of aid into Gaza after more than two years of war started by Hamas’s unprecedented Oct. 2023 attack on Israel.
Palestinian militant group Hamas would release all hostages while Israel would pull its troops back to an agreed on line, US President Donald Trump said after talks in Egypt on his 20-point peace plan resulted in a deal.
Qatar said the deal was the “first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, which will lead to ending the war, the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, and the entry of aid.”
Hamas will exchange 20 living hostages for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners as part of the first phase of a deal, a source within the militant group told AFP Thursday.
The exchange will take place within 72 hours of the implementation of the agreement, which is expected to be signed on Thursday, the source familiar with the negotiations said.
The hostages will be released in exchange for 250 Palestinians sentenced
to life imprisonment and 1,700 others arrested by Israel since the war began, the source added.
“I am very proud to announce that Israel and Hamas have both signed off on the first Phase of our Peace Plan,”
Trump said on his Truth Social network.
“This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to
an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace.”
Trump also thanked mediators Qatar, Egypt and Turkey, adding: “BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS!”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would bring the hostages home “with God’s help”.
Trump said earlier that he may trav-
Japan’s Takaichi may skip visit to war shrine
TOKYO – Japan’s likely new prime minister Sanae Takaichi may skip a visit to a shrine honoring the country’s war dead during an autumn festival to avoid angering Asian neighbors, media reports said.
Visits by Japanese officials to the Yasukuni shrine in Tokyo -- which honors even convicted war criminals -- tend to infuriate China and South Korea, which see the shrine as a symbol of Japan’s past militarism.
Takaichi, the new leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, has visited the shrine on many occasions, including when she was in ministerial posts. However, she is now weighing up the impact of a potential visit on diplomatic ties with Beijing and Seoul, the Yomiuri Shimbun, the Asahi Shimbun and other media reported this week, citing unnamed party sources. She is also mindful of possible criticism that ally the United States could level ahead of President Donald Trump’s expected visit to Tokyo later this month, the Yomiuri newspaper said.
A visit to the shrine in 2013 by thenprime minister Shinzo Abe, Takaichi’s mentor, prompted a furious reaction from China and South Korea while Washington said it was disappointed. Every year, dozens of parliament members visit Yasukuni, which honors officials executed by a US-backed war crimes tribunal after World War II, in addition to common soldiers.
The autumn festival, which will be held from Oct. 17 to 19, is a popular time to go. AFP
el to the Middle East this week as a deal was “very close”.
In a dramatic moment, AFP journalists saw US Secretary of State Marco Rubio interrupt an event at the White House and hand Trump an urgent note about the progress of the negotiations in Egypt.
US faces travel delays as gov’t shutdown wears on, escalates
WASHINGTON, DC – Concerns over flight delays and missed paychecks due to the US government shutdown escalated Wednesday, as senators rejected yet another bid to end the standoff.
Democrats voted for a sixth time to block a Republican stopgap funding measure to reopen government departments, keeping much of the federal workforce home or working without pay.
With the shutdown in its eighth day, lines at airports were expected to grow amid increased absenteeism among security and safety staff at some of the country’s busiest hubs. Air traffic controllers -- seen as
“essential” public servants -- are kept at work during government shutdowns, but higher numbers are calling in sick rather than toiling without pay, leading to shortages.
Staffing problems have already been reported in almost a dozen airports from Chicago and Boston to Burbank and Houston, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), with further issues expected at Newark, a major hub for the New York City area.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy told CNN on Wednesday that he was “encouraging air traffic controllers to show up for work,” after noting an increase in use of sick days earlier this week. AFP
Suspect in US court months after deadly Los Angeles fire
LOS ANGELES – A man suspected of deliberately causing one of the deadliest fires in US history appeared in court Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time) charged with sparking a blaze that tore through Los Angeles in January.
The development comes as the nation’s second-largest city was still grappling with the aftermath of two huge fires that together killed 31 people and left thousands of acres (hectares) in ruins, as they displaced thousands of people.
“The complaint alleges that a single person’s recklessness caused one of the worst fires Los Angeles has ever seen, resulting in death and widespread destruction in Pacific Palisades,” Acting United States Attorney Bill Essayli said.
Rinderknecht did not enter a plea and is expected to appear in court again Thursday, the US Attorney’s Office said.
Rinderknecht is alleged to have ignited the Palisades Fire in the early minutes of New Year’s Day on a popular hiking trail above the well-heeled suburb, which is home to celebrities
Jonathan Rinderknecht, a 29-yearold who was arrested on Tuesday, made an initial appearance in a federal court in Florida, where he now lives, charged with destruction of property by means of fire.
WASHINGTON, DC – US President Donald Trump called Wednesday for the Democratic governor of Illinois and mayor of Chicago to be jailed for resist-
ing his mass deportation campaign, a day after armed troops from Texas arrived in the state. Chicago, the largest city in Illinois and
and is one of the most sought-after pieces of real estate in the United States. The blaze was initially contained by firefighters, but smoldered underground in the roots of plants.
Investigators believe powerful winds that swept through the area a week later reignited it. Those flames grew to engulf Pacific Palisades and parts of Malibu, destroying thousands of homes and killing a dozen people.
A separate fire that erupted in the more modest suburb of Altadena at the same time also caused devastation over a wide area, killing 19 people. AFP
Trump calls for jailing of Illinois Democrats as troops arrive
third-largest in the country, has become the latest flashpoint in a crackdown by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents that has sparked allegations of rights abuses and myriad lawsuits. Masked ICE agents have surged into several Democratic-led cities to conduct raids, stoking outrage among many residents and protests outside federal facilities.
“Chicago Mayor should be in jail for failing to protect Ice Officers! Governor Pritzker also!” Trump posted Wednesday on his social media platform.
Trump’s attacks on Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, both Democrats, follow similar extraordinary public calls by the president for his political opponents to face legal charges.
Trump later hosted an event at the White House regarding left-wing Antifa groups which focused on Portland, another Democratic-run city on the US west coast which has also become a flashpoint. AFP
Trump’s plan called for a ceasefire, the release of all the hostages held in Gaza, Hamas’s disarmament and a gradual Israeli withdrawal from the territory.
Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff arrived at the talks earlier. AFP
“I may go there sometime toward the end of the week, maybe on Sunday,” Trump said, adding that he was “most likely” to turn up in Egypt but would also consider going to war-torn Gaza.
IN BRIEF
Cancer screening outrages Spain
SEVILLE – Spain has for answers to public outrage at a healthcare scandal after authorities in the Andalusia region failed to inform thousands of women of their breast cancer screening results. The southern region’s conservative-run government said around 2,000 women had in recent years not been informed of the results of mammograms carried out in public hospitals. These results concerned inconclusive procedures that would have led to followup tests, potentially missing cancer cases and the chance to treat the women.
Regions are responsible for public healthcare in Spain’s decentralized political system.
But the scandal spilt over into the national arena, with far-left Health Minister Monica Garcia saying on social media she had required all the regions to submit cancer screening data “to strengthen surveillance”. AFP
Trump in ‘routine’ medical check
WASHINGTON, DC – US President Donald Trump will have a “routine” medical checkup on Friday (Saturday Manila time) at a military facility near Washington, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement.
“On Friday morning, President Trump will visit Walter Reed Medical Center for a planned meeting and remarks with the troops. While there, President Trump will stop by for his routine yearly checkup,” Leavitt said Wednesday. The doctor’s visit will mark the second such annual medical appointment this year for Trump -- who reported feeling “in very good shape” after his annual visit in April. At the time of that checkup, Leavitt said all of Trump’s test results “were within normal limits,” and he had a “normal cardiac structure and function, no signs of heart failure, renal impairment or systemic illness.” AFP
Macron to name new French PM
PARIS – French President Emmanuel Macron will name a new prime minister within the next 48 hours, his office said Wednesday, after
DILG launches new handbook for barangay tanods
IN line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s push for safer communities, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has launched a handbook for village security personnel locally called “barangay tanod” to reinforce their duties ac community peacekeepers.
“With this holistic guidebook, our barangay tanods are positioned to be more than just auxiliary enforcers; they are also community peace-builders, rights advocates, and development partners,” DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said in a statement.
The DILG, through collaboration with the Justice Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC) and the National Barangay Operations Office (NBOO), enhanced its previous manual on Barangay Tanod Skills Enhancement to publish a comprehensive reference on the technical and ethical foundation of every barangay tanod.
Under the Local Government Code of 1991, Sangguniang Barangays are authorized to organize barangay tanods for assistance in communitybased mechanisms for peace and order in the communities.
This initiative reinforces their enhanced role in the communities as first responders, peace-builders, rights advocates, and community development partners.
“In the updated handbook accessible at https://bit.ly/2025TanodGuidebook, instructions for barangay tanods as first responders were improved to become effective agents in providing aid and support in procedures undertaken at a crime scene. It also includes their roles in upholding the laws concerning gender and development, child protection, cultural sensitivity, and human rights protection,” the statement read.
With the recent issuance of Memorandum Circular No. 2025-072 on the deployment of barangay tanods to public schools, the handbook is instrumental in providing institutional support as they meet the expectations as the government’s extended arm to sustain peace and order.
In addition to this initiative, the DILG and the JSCC conducted the Barangay Tanod Skills Enhancement Training to capacitate the security forces in the four justice zones of Angeles City, Balanga City, Calamba City, and Tagaytay City.
Quake-hit Cebu LGUs to get ‘mobile o ices’
By Minerva Newman
CEBU
Gov. Pamela Baricuatro is set to deploy temporary “smart offices” for the earthquake-hit local governments units (LGUs) of Bogo City and the towns of San Remigio, Daanbantayan, Medellin, Tabogon, and Borbon, expected to be delivered by the end of the week or early next week.
“The provincial government will provide mobile offices for them, at least two 20-footer vans for each municipality, which they can use right away as their office,” Baricuatro said in a press briefing on Wednesday (Oct. 8) at the Capitol.
The “smart offices” are mobile office units equipped with air
No Pinoy trekker a ected by Everest blizzard—DFA
By Katrina Manubay
THE Philippine Embassy in New Delhi, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) disclosed that there have been no reports of Filipinos stranded or rescued during the blizzard on Mount Everest.
Earlier reports quoted rescuers as saying they have guided to safety nearly 1,000 trekkers who were stranded by a blizzard near Mount Everest in Tibet, although some remained trapped.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Embassy in Port Moresby also said the Filipino community in Lae City and nearby areas is safe following a 5.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Papua New Guinea, on Tuesday, Oct. 7.
“The Department is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with the Philippine Embassy,” the DFA said.
The agency also confirmed that there are currently 36,000 Filipinos in Papua New Guinea.
conditioning and comfort rooms, to ensure that local officials, notably the mayors, can discharge their duties and responsibilities without disruption.
This initiative is crucial to ensure that government operations continue despite damaged infrastructures, allowing the local gov-
ernment units to deliver essential services and respond more effectively to the needs of their constituents, Baricuatro said.
Meanwhile, Baricuatro thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the national government’s continued assistance to the earthquakehit province, particularly the recent Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) Bayanihan Aid Caravan.
The PCSO donated 11 ambulances or patient transport vehicles (PTVs) to various local government units (LGUs) across the province, strengthening emergency response and healthcare delivery system.
A powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck off the coast of Bogo City in northern Cebu on Sept. 30, leaving 74 people dead and causing massive damage to homes and infrastructures.
Fil-Swiss gallery owner puts up outdoor art exhibit in Japan
By Ronald O. Reyes
A FILIPINO-Swiss gallery owner has partnered with two Czech private firms in putting together an outdoor art exhibit they called “Forest of Civilizations” at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.
Their exhibit featured ancient subfossil oak trees which, according to them, “represent history, resilience, and the continuity of life.”
Minerva Mondejar-Steiner, a native of Tacloban City, Leyte, who owns the Mondejar Gallery based in Zurich, Switzerland has gained a reputation for curating exhibits that merge artistic innovation with historical consciousness.
She described the Forest of Civilizations exhibit as ”more than an international installation.”
“It is a statement of how Filipino
creativity and leadership can resonate within the world’s most prestigious cultural platforms, expanding the reach of Philippine art while shaping conversations on preservation and shared human history,” Mondejar-Steiner said in a statement. Their exhibits showcased 133 pieces of subfossil oak trees, remarkably preserved underground for 6,500 years since the Ice Age.
“These ancient oak trees, found over eight meters deep in the ground, were extracted seven years ago, embedded within glacial sediments in the North Moravia region of the modern Czech Republic,” the exhibitor explained.
“The preserved annual rings of the tree trunks offered insights, with the use of modern technology, into thousands of years of climate patterns, land shifts, and natural phenomena,” she added.
Legarda nixes nuclear facility for Antique
PH, Lao vow to deepen defense collaboration
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) on Wednesday reaffirmed their strategic partnership and commitment to defense cooperation during an official visit by Col. Somchay Xaichaleun, the newly appointed Lao defense attaché to the Philippines.
AFP deputy chief Lt. Gen. Rommel Roldan welcomed the visiting Lao official at the AFP general headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, where both sides reiterated mutual intent to enhance bilateral cooperation, advance defense diplomacy, and promote regional solidarity across Southeast Asia.
“The engagement underscored the mutual commitment of the Philippines and Lao PDR, both member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).” The AFP said. The engagement also marked the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries— a milestone that underscores their longstanding friendship and strategic partnership between the two ASEAN brothers. Rex Espiritu
FINE FEATHERS AT THE PARK. The Cavite City government opens an aviary at the Samonte Park, housing more than 70 rare avian species donated by local residents. Dennis Abrina
MOBILE KITCHEN. The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Mobile Kitchen project serves hot breakfast with boiled eggs to earthquake-stricken residents of San Remigio town in Cebu province.
FOSSIL FOREST. Filipino-Swiss gallery owner Minerva Mondejar-Steiner, a native of Tacloban City in Leyte, oversees the setting up of their outdoor exhibit at the Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. Dubbed ‘Forest of Civilizations,’ the exhibit features 133 ancient subfossil oak trees dug up seven years ago from the glacial sediments of the North Moravia region of the now Czech Republic where they were believed buried for around 6,600 years since the Ice Age.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
Adamson gains second round; CSB sweeps group stage
JOY Aseo took over the scoring task in the absence of Shaina Nitura to propel Adamson University to the second round in a quick sweep of Arellano University, 25-21, 25-17, 25-19, in the 2025 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Preseason Unity Cup on Thursday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
Aseo whipped up 12 points in the Lady Falcons’ second straight victory in as many games as they joined playoffs-bound and also unbeaten Far Eastern University at the top of Pool B. Adamson, which rested Nitura, was in full control of the match and booted out the Lady Chiefs in just 77 minutes.
“Naging patient lang kami sa isa’t isa and nag-team work. Sinasabi sa amin ni coach na gawin ang best namin para manalo. Win or lose man, it’s OK, basta yung best namin pinupush namin,” said Aseo, who had eight kills and four aces.
Red Bascon finished with eight markers while Abegail Segui and Frances Mordi added six points each for Adamson, which annexed the National Invitationals Cebu Leg two months ago.
The Lady Falcons battle the Invitationals Batangas Leg champions on Friday at the same venue when the preliminary round of the league’s centerpiece tournament, backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner and R and B Milk Tea, comes to a close.
Jazmine Palalon and Jayde Dela Cruz scored seven and six points, respectively, to pace Arellano, which ended its campaign with a 1-2 winloss record.
Meanwhile, College of Saint Benilde rallied from a set down and survived an extended fourth frame in an 18-25, 25-13, 25-23, 33-31, victory over Ateneo de Manila University to complete a three-game sweep of Pool D.
PH’s De Guzman claims silver in New Zealand badminton tilt
By Peter Atencio
MIKAELA Joy De Guzman of the Philippines settled for the silver medal after a valiant effort against top seed Tung Ciou-Tung of Chinese Taipei, who prevailed, 12-21, 21-11, 21-14, in the women’s singles final of the MAXX North Harbour Badminton International 2025 held in New Zealand.
The 24-year-old De Guzman opened her campaign with an impressive upset victory over Chen Su Yu of Chinese Taipei, setting the tone for her strong tournament run. She went on to defeat fourth seed Yi En Hsieh, 21-12, 21-13, in the semifinals to secure a spot in the championship match. In earlier rounds, De Guzman domi-
nated Chinese Taipei’s Yi An Yan in straight sets, 21-16, 21-19, during the quarterfinals, and edged out Lin Sih Yun, 24-22, 21-19, in the round of 16. A rising star in Philippine badminton, De Guzman continues to make her mark both locally and internationally. She represents Ateneo de Manila University and the Philippines in major com-
petitions and serves as a key player for the Ateneo Women’s Badminton Team. Her outstanding performances earned her the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in the UAAP Season 87 women’s badminton tournament.
Earlier this year, De Guzman captured her third consecutive women’s singles crown at the Philippine National Badminton Open 2025. She also bagged a bronze medal in the women’s doubles event at the Bahrain International Series 2024, partnering with India’s Prerana Shet.
De Guzman was likewise part of the Philippine women’s badminton team that clinched a bronze medal at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games, further solidifying her status as one of the country’s most promising shuttlers.
PKL Fall 2025 enters Final Four showdown at Trinoma
By CJ Cortez
AFTER six weeks of intense regularseason action and thrilling play-ins, only four teams remain in contention for the crown in the Philippines Kings League (PKL) Fall 2025 tournament. Boom Esports, Blacklist International, ACT Esports Club, and Elevate will battle it out for supremacy from October 10 to 12 at the Trinoma Activity Center in Quezon City, where only five kings from one team will emerge victorious.
During the play-ins stage last Sunday, October 5, PKL Fall 2025 main host Mara Aquino shared her thoughts on the growth of the league and her excitement for the upcoming playoffs.
“For me, it’s much better than last season because last season was the first one. Of course, nangangapaan pa, and some players didn’t play until two months before the season,” Aquino said.
Aquino noted how much the league has evolved in just a year.
“This season is definitely more competitive. It’s getting harder, it’s
The return of the comeback kid
THE Philippine Men’s National Football Team resumes its bid for relevance as the qualifiers for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup begin. The Philippine side is hoping to get the full six points in back-to-back games against Timor-Leste — first in an away match in Darwin, Australia (last night), and then at home at the New Clark City Stadium on October 17.
Several days ago, the Philippine Football Federation released the 23-man lineup against the Lafaek, or The Crocodiles. The roster includes goalkeepers Kevin Mendoza, Quincy Kammeraad, and Nico Guimaraes; defenders Amani Aguinaldo, Josef Baccay, Michael Kempter, Jesper Nyholm, Santi Rublico, Jeff Tabinas, and Adrian Ugelvik; midfielders Zico Bailey, Mike Ott, John Lucero, Sandro Reyes, Christian Rontini, and Randy Schneider; and forwards Dylan Demuynck, Jarvey Gayoso, Gerrit Holtmann, Bjorn Kristensen, Andre Leipold, Alex Monis, and Sebastian Ras-
mussen. The squad, formerly known as the Azkals, appears poised for a strong campaign.
The Philippines is currently second in Group A with four points, behind Tajikistan only by goal difference. The squad had the opportunity to move to the top with six points, but managed only a 1-1 draw against Tajikistan in a home game in its last outing.
As the PMNFT returns to the pitch, a familiar name is also making a comeback with the national team. In a short kumustahan with The Designated Kit Man, striker Sebastian Rasmussen shared his excitement about playing once more for the three stars and the sun.
“It feels very good to be back with the team again. I’m super excited, happy, and thankful for being back,” he said. Rasmussen missed several games due to personal reasons, but his fine form with his club Hobro in the Danish First Division earned him another call-up to the national team.
“I have been working hard on and off the pitch to stay as sharp and fit as possible. I’m really excited to play for the national team again. It is always an honor to be called up and play at such a high level,” Rasmussen added.
much better. Ngayon, may audience na kami—dati wala. So it’s growing. It’s a huge difference from the first season,” she added.
Aside from playing for the national team once more, Rasmussen is also looking forward to meeting Carles Cuadrat — the team’s latest head coach — and his staff, which includes fellow Spaniards Albert Roca and Dimas Delgado.
“I really don’t know them that much, but I know that they have a lot of experience and have trained some of the best players in the world. So I’m really excited to learn from them. I’m also very thankful that they chose me to be part of the squad,” Rasmussen shared. Rasmussen added that he can’t wait to play again before local fans, which is among his main motivations for returning to the country. The team is expected to fly back to Manila immediately after the Darwin game. On paper, the PMNFT is one of the strongest sides assembled in recent years. The presence of Holtmann, Kristensen, Monis, Demuynck, and Rasmussen provides several scoring options, while Reyes and Schneider are also capable of giving the team additional firepower. The matches against Timor-Leste will give Rublico another opportunity to assert his presence and realize his full potential.
Another factor working in the Philippines’ favor is its superior head-to-head record against Timor-Leste — six wins and one loss. Still, as the saying goes, “the ball is round,” and football remains a game where nothing is set in stone and surprises often come in bundles.
Once again, it cannot be emphasized
When asked about her fearless forecast for the upcoming “throne wars,” the seasoned host didn’t hesitate to share her insights on the possible championship matchup.
“A.C.T. can be unpredictable. But I think people are saying, from last season, na iba ‘yung laro ng Blacklist. But I think Blacklist’s kryptonite talaga is BOOM. Sana Game 7—it’s going to be a Game 7, BLACK-BOOM. They have more experience,” Aquino predicted.
Aquino also invited fans to witness the thrilling showdown between the country’s strongest Honor of Kings teams live at Trinoma.
“If everybody can watch, it’s going to be very exciting. It’s in Trinoma, a bigger venue, so it’s easier for people to get there. From October 10 to 12, we’re going to give away lots of prizes like TT Racing gaming chairs, Tecno phones, and even appliances,” she said.
enough: the PMNFT must secure the full six points against Timor-Leste. Nothing less than two wins will keep the team on track for a return to the continent’s biggest football spectacle two years from now. Which brings me to a question: whatever happened to the recruitment of highprofile players? Before the departure of former PMNFT team manager Freddy Gonzalez, there was much anticipation surrounding the arrival of players who could significantly bolster the team’s Asian Cup qualifying campaign. These included Cole Mrowka, the Wolff brothers, the Patterson brothers, and even that ultimate “Pabebe Azkal Wannabe.” If I remember correctly, Gonzalez even sought help from some senators to fasttrack the naturalization of these players. But since his departure, nothing has been heard about these recruitment efforts or the status of their papers. With the Senate currently busy with its hearings on the flood control scandal, I sincerely hope that the work started by Gonzalez won’t simply be thrown under the bus just because he is no longer with the PFF. But then again…
The national side will face Timor-Leste at 7 p.m. on October 17 at the New Clark City Stadium. Stay safe. Stay happy, peeps!
For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow him on X (formerly Twitter): @erelcabatbat.
By Nissi Icasiano
nated with fans in the country.
Frances Mordi smashes the ball over AU Angela Santiago and Jaz Palalon.
Mikaela De Guzman
The Sari-Sari Slam card will feature several international matchups, including a highly anticipated encounter between ‘The Filipino Fighting Rooster’ Jake De Leon and ‘The Protagonist’ Kidd Bandit.
Boom Esports, Blacklist International, ACT Esports Club, and Elevate will battle it out for supremacy.
BSP delivers fourth interest rate cut amid benign inflation outlook
4.75% 4.25% 5.25%
RELIEF GOODS.
Prime Infra Foundation and Prime Waste Solutions (PWS)
Cebu deliver relief goods and drinking water to 2,000 households in communities affected by the recent magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu. The relief goods including ready-to-eat food packs, noodles and canned goods as well as drinking water were distributed across three barangays in the municipality of San Remigio on Oct. 6, 2025.
THE ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) on Thursday maintained its economic growth forecast for the Philippines for 2025 and 2026, citing weaker exports amid the expected impact of United States tariffs.
In the latest quarterly update of the ASEAN+3 Regional Economic Outlook (AREO), AMRO kept its gross domestic product (GDP) growth projection for the Philippines at 5.6 percent in 2025 and 5.5 percent in 2026. This puts the country’s economic
By Thony Rose Lesaca
THE Monetary Board, the policy-making body of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), on Thursday delivered its fourth interest rate cut for the year, reducing the overnight borrowing rate by another 25 basis points to 4.75 percent amid benign and withintarget inflation outlook.
It also reduced the overnight deposit and lending facilities to 4.25 and 5.25 percent, respectively.
“The outlook for inflation is benign and well within the target range. Inflation expectations remain well-anchored,” the BSP said.
The BSP said that while potential adjustments in electricity rates and possible increases in rice import tariffs could add some upward pressures,
the risks to inflation outlook are limited as price pressures are expected to ease.
“The Monetary Board likewise noted that the outlook for domestic economic growth has weakened,” it said.
“This outlook reflects in part the impact on business confidence of governance concerns about public infrastructure spending. Indications of moderating demand also reflect lin-
gering uncertainty from the external environment,” the BSP said.
It said that on balance, the Monetary Board sees scope for a more accommodative monetary policy stance.
The favorable inflation outlook and moderating domestic demand provide room to further support economic activity, it said.
“As the impact of earlier policy action works through the economy, the BSP will remain attentive to emerging risks while maintaining price stability conducive to sustainable growth and employment,” the bank said.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that headline inflation rose to 1.7 percent in September from 1.5 percent in August, but remained within the BSP forecast range of 1.5 percent to 2.3 percent for the month.
growth on a downward trend from the 5.7-percent GDP output recorded in 2024.
Inflation is also expected to average 1.8 percent in 2025 and 3.2 percent in 2026.
AMRO group head and lead economist Runchana Pongsaparn said the slower growth projected for 2025 and 2026 compared with 2024 is “partly because of the weaker export, just like other countries in the region, where we expect that the impact of the US tariff is going to kick in towards the
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Department of Transportation
(DOTr) said Thursday it has secured right-of-way (ROW) in six areas from Calumpit, Bulacan to Clark, Pampanga to speed up the completion of the NorthSouth Commuter Railway (NSCR) System. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier directed the DOTr to streamline the land acquisition process for big-ticket transport projects to expedite the construction of critical infrastructure aimed at easing the plight of commuters.
The six ROW properties cleared are situated in Clark International Airport, SM Clark, Barangay Pulungbulo in Angeles City, Barangay Sto. Nino in
San Fernando, Barangay San Vicente in Apalit and Barangay Iba Este in Calumpit.
DOTr acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the ROW acquisition of properties would continue to address longstanding bottlenecks upon the orders of the President to provide efficient and reliable transport infrastructure.
“We extend our gratitude to the local government units in these critical areas where we will construct the NSCR, particularly those in Angeles City, Mabalacat City, City of San Fernando, Apalit, Minalin, Sto. Tomas, Calumpit, Malolos and the provinces of Pampanga and Bulacan, for their invaluable support and cooperation in making this project possible,” Lopez said in a statement.
end of the year and next year.”
Despite this, Pongsaparn noted that AMRO still expects consumption to grow steadily, underpinned by a strong labor market, lower inflation and robust remittances.
“Private investment, sentiment, and export performance are the ones who probably moderate the growth a little bit because of the external uncertainty related to the US tariff,” Pongsaparn said.
For the broader ASEAN+3 region, growth is expected to reach 4.1 per-
cent in 2025 and 3.8 percent in 2026, an upward revision from its July forecast of 3.8 percent for this year and 3.6 percent for 2026. This stronger outlook is underpinned by robust performance in the first half of the year and stronger-than-expected export momentum, partly due to the front-loading of shipments ahead of the US tariffs. The solid growth was also supported by firm domestic demand, resilient private consumption, and improved investment activities.
Thony Rose Lesaca
DAMAGED BRIDGE. Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)
Secretary Vince Dizon inspects the damaged Piggatan Bridge in Alcala, Cagayan, on Oct. 8, 2025, in response to the President’s directive to assess the situation on the ground and develop a solution for the impact on the movement of goods and services. Dizon is joined by officials from the DPWH Regional Office 2, Cagayan Governor Edgardo Aglipay and Alcala Mayor Christina Antonio.
Cement makers seek P600/ton duty vs. imports
THE Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) asked the government to impose a P600-permetric-ton (MT) safeguard duty on imported cement for the next three years.
The group said the higher tariff is necessary to protect the local industry from “real injury” caused by subsidized foreign imports and undercut prices.
The group’s “prayer” for a P600 tariff is significantly higher than the P349 per MT recommended by the Tariff Commission and the P400 provisional duty earlier proposed by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), according to CeMAP executive director Renato A. Baja.
“Our recommendation of P600 was based on a comparison between the
IN BRIEF
landed cost of imported cement and the gate price of locally produced ones— that’s the fair and realistic rate that reflects the actual injury suffered by our industry,” said Baja.
Baja said that while CeMAP welcomes the Tariff Commission’s recognition of the need for an increased duty, the proposed P349 rate “remains insufficient.”
DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque said the DTI would issue the final decision on Oct. 14, following an in-depth evaluation of the Tariff Commission’s report and the manufacturers’ appeal. The safeguard measure, if approved, would be effective for three years. Othel V. Campos
By Othel V. Campos
PRIVATE housing developers are calling on the government to fast-track key reforms that would accelerate the rollout of the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) program as they expressed their commitment to helping close the widening housing gap. The private sector fully supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s goal of addressing the national housing backlog but warned that several policy barriers should first be resolved, according to Subdivision and Housing Developers Association (SHDA) president Francis Richmond Villegas.
“We have to produce as soon as possible,” Villegas said on Thursday at the sidelines of the 33rd National Developers Convention.
“If you consider the President’s timeline, we’re already three years lagging and about three million units behind. It may take us two years to deliver
Villegas said.
are
FACTORY VISIT. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque leads a factory visit to Ferrotech Steel Corp., which manufactures LPG cylinders, as part of the agency’s effort to bolster its engagement with the manufacturing sector. The visit
Younis and AXA Philippines chief marketing officer Nandy Villar.
OpenAI co-founder Altman’s World to challenge PH ban
By Darwin G. Amojelar
and Othel V. Campos
WORLD, the digital identity project co-founded by OpenAI’s Sam Altman and developed by Tools for Humanity (TFH), said Thursday it will file a motion for reconsideration with the National Privacy Commission (NPC) after the agency issued a cease-anddesist order (CDO) against its operations in the Philippines.
The National Privacy Commission (NPC) earlier ordered Tools for Humanity (TFH), the company behind the World App and Orb verification system, to immediately halt the col-
lection and processing of personal and biometric data in the Philippines after finding alleged multiple violations of the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (DPA).
The company described the NPC’s order as a “setback for responsible digital innovation,” calling the decision a surprising reversal given its year-long compliance process and significant, long-term investments in the Philippines.
World said the sudden shift in the NPC’s position following a change in its leadership is “alarming,” particularly since World in the Philippines has been actively working with
agencies such as the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) to explore solutions to AI-related risks.
The decision, if not reversed, could deprive millions of Filipinos of technology designed to protect them from scams, identity theft and AI-driven fraud, the company said.
“This sudden change in interpretation undermines the certainty that legitimate investors rely on when working with Philippine regulators,” said Ryuji Wolf, a local operator representing World in the Philippines.
AXA Group chief executive Thomas Buberl and AXA International Markets chief executive Hassan ElShabrawishi highlighted the country’s potential during a recent visit, emphasizing its importance to AXA’s global strategy. They noted that the country’s expanding, consumptiondriven middle class fuels demand for both protection and financial services.
The executives reinforced AXA’s strong partnership with Metrobank, a joint venture that has anchored the insurer’s presence in the Philippines for over 25 years. The partnership has pioneered bancassurance, expanded digital channels for policy access, and integrated financial education into the market.
AXA’s mission, they said, is to provide inclusive, future-ready protection solutions tailored to Filipino households, businesses and communities. By combining global expertise with local presence, AXA aims to address the country’s unique risks— from vulnerability to climate change
and natural disasters to providing safety nets for evolving health and financial challenges.
“Insurance today must go beyond protection after the fact. Our goal is to help communities anticipate risks, prepare for them, and recover more quickly,” said Buberl.
“The Philippines plays an important role in this vision. If risk preparedness and recovery can be strengthened here, it can serve as a model for other high-risk regions across the globe,” he said.
El-Shabrawishi cited the Philippines as a vital testbed for inclusive protection initiatives, particularly for underserved groups like micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), informal workers and vulnerable households.
“Through AXA EssentiALL, our global inclusive insurance program, we are creating affordable, practical solutions that support financial resilience for millions of families,” he said.
AXA global executives underscore the Philippines’ strong growth potential during their visit in the country, citing its expanding economy and young population’s rising demand for insurance and financial services. Shown are (from left) AXA Philippines CFO Mikael Malaganne, chief human resources officer Sharon Hernandez, COO Kathleen Villegas, chief transformation and technology officer Caloi Santos, AXA Group CEO Thomas Buberl, AXA Philippines CEO Ayman Kandil,
AXA International Markets CEO Hassan El-Shabrawishi, AXA Philippines chief general insurance officer Gael Lapie, AXA Philippines chief distribution officer Khaled
TRANSPORT
SLopez gains transport group’s backing to ease commuter woes
EVERAL transport groups expressed support for acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez’s leadership at the Department of Transportation (DOTr), par ticularly his efforts to close the transportation gap and improve convenience for commuters.
Lopez recently met with leaders from various transport groups, including Pasang Masda President Obet Martin, Altodap National President Melencio “Boy” Vargas, and Busina National President Marilyn Ramos, to tackle concerns facing the sector and the commuters.
The meeting followed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to the DOTr to engage in dialogue with transport groups to better understand transportation issues.
“Pasang Masda, Altodap, Busina and most of the land transportation ranks in the jeepney ranks have full confidence in Sec. Giovanni Lopez that he can do a lot for our ranks in the jeepney sector and in the entire Transportation under the DOTr,” Martin said.
Strengthening maritime logistics to power PH
Lopez thanked the transport groups for their trust and promised that the DOTr would help resolve the grievances of the transport groups and serve commuters well.
“We are grateful for the support of our colleagues in the land transportation ranks. This dialogue is important because we hear their grievances and we promise to act on their grievances, as well as to take care of the interests of commuters,” Lopez said.
Some of the issues discussed were the transport groups’ request to the Secretary to direct the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to immediately resolve Route Rationalization, take action on the lack of PUVs on routes with a lot of commuters including Commonwealth
The PAL Aviation School proudly sends off 14 pilot trainees to Australia for advanced flight training
MARITIME logistics remains the backbone of Philippine trade. Businesses depend on it to move products across islands, sustain industries, and connect communities that would otherwise be isolated. From appliances and food supplies to medicine and agricultural produce, the shipping industry ensures that essential goods reach homes and stores nationwide. Operating across thousands of islands comes with challenges. Cargo often requires interisland connectivity and routing strategies. Costs rise with fuel prices, port fees, and infrastructure gaps. Shipping companies adapt and pivot with every challenge. These realities make local logistics expensive, but they also highlight how essential shipping is to multimodal solutions and how the industry needs support from various sectors and stakeholders.
“Shipping carries the lifeblood of our economy. Everyday goods in our homes traveled by sea first. This lifeline deserves greater attention and support, especially from stakeholders who recognize its role in keeping trade and communities moving,” Mark Matthew F. Parco, President of the Philippine Liner Shipping Association (PLSA) and the Philippine Interisland Shipping Association (PISA) said. Will Howell, chief operating officer and chief financial officer of 2GO Group, Inc. said that maritime shipping remains the most sustainable way to connect islands and move goods over long distances.
Avenue, and the alleged corruption in the LTFRB.
Lopez earlier ordered special permits for nearly 300 buses traveling from Sapang Palay to Fairview to allow them to pick up and drop off passengers directly at NIA Road in Quezon City.
“This needs to be done so that passengers do not have to walk too far, especially if they transfer to MRT-3,” Lopez said.
“The long walk just to board is a hardship for passengers. It is especially unfortunate for seniors and PWDs. That is why the bus station should be closer to the MRT so that they can easily transfer,” he added.
Lopez himself experienced the hardship of commuting due to the different boarding and alighting times, so he could feel the hardship of commuters firsthand.
The buses that travel only loop from Sapang Palay, passing through Commonwealth Avenue, East Avenue, Internal Road, NIA Road and back.
Although passengers can now board and alight at NIA Road, buses are still strictly prohibited from parking and terminating in the area.
Lopez also ordered the deployment of four PCG personnel and four LTO traffic enforcers in the area, to ensure that buses only stay on NIA Road for three minutes, and then move on and continue on their routes.
Constant honking of buses in the area will also be prohibited, so as not to disturb nearby residential buildings and offices.
This October, buses will be allowed on NIA Road during rush hours or from 4 to 8 a.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. This may be changed or continued, depending on the assessment next month. Darwin G. Amojelar
PAL Aviation School sends first batch of trainees to Australia
THE Philippine Airlines (PAL) Aviation School, which was relaunched in early 2025 in partnership with Australia-based Airways Aviation, has dispatched the first 14 pilot trainees from its AO Class 2025 Alpha to Australia for advanced flight training.
The send-off ceremony was held on September 28, 2025, at the Lucio K. Tan, Jr. (LKTJ) Center, attended by PAL officials and family members.
As part of the PAL Aviation School and Airways Aviation Australia collaboration, trainees will complete both theoretical and practical flight training at Airways Aviation’s Gold
Coast campus in Australia, following their initial training in the Philippines.
“Through the halls of the PAL Aviation School pass the best and brightest pilots who continue to uphold the principles of discipline, professionalism, and commitment to duty,” Capt. Roland Narciso, PAL Senior Vice President – Operations Group said.
“The PAL Aviation School maintains the highest standards of pilot training, equipping future aviators with the knowledge and skills necessary for commercial flight. Our partnership with Airways Aviation provides a strong foundation through
innovative programs and state-of-theart facilities,” he added.
Established in the early 1960s, the PAL Aviation School has trained over a thousand pilots, shaping the professional landscape of the Philippine aviation industry.
Producing new pilots is essential to complement the expansion of the PAL fleet.
The airline will be receiving nine new A350-1000 aircraft, with the first delivery expected by the end of 2025 and the remaining eight arriving between 2026 and 2028. Thirteen new Airbus A321neo aircraft will be delivered in phases starting in 2026.
CIAC, partners host second annual Clark Moon Festival
THE timeless Mid-Autumn Festival tradition came to life today at the Clark Moon Festival 2025, gathering the Clark Community at Clark Global City’s West Aeropark to celebrate key partnerships and the region’s continuous growth.
Known in Asia as the Moon Festival, this cherished tradition symbolizes family unity, thanksgiving, and harmony. The festival, typically marked by moon gazing, lantern displays, and sharing mooncakes, embodies the ideals of togetherness and prosperity—values that strongly resonate with Clark’s journey as a thriving community and investment destination.
Jointly hosted by the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC), Clark Development Corporation (CDC), Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and several private sector partners, this year’s theme was “Light the Skies and Celebrate Partnerships.” The theme underscored the collaborative spirit of the stakeholders who are transforming Clark into a worldclass hub for aviation, commerce, culture, and tourism.
Now in its second year, the festival has become a major gathering of stakeholders, government agencies, private partners, and investors, collectively fueling Clark’s growth and strengthening its global positioning.
“Today’s celebration is not only a cultural gathering but also a recognition of the partnerships that create real impact for people and communities,”
Jojit Alcazar, CIAC president and chief executive said.
“By lighting the skies together, we strengthen the bonds that drive inclusive growth, foster investor confidence, and ensure that Clark’s transformation into a world-class hub... is matched by a communitydriven spirit of progress and shared prosperity,” he added.
Masagana links Metro Manila with Cebu and Cagayan de Oro, two of the country’s major port cities, twice a week.
DOTr Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
FILIPINO filmmakers at CineSilip Film Festival are taking bold steps toward storytelling that challenges convention and explores themes often left untouched by mainstream cinema.
The newly launched film festival aims to become a platform for such provocative and daring narratives, giving young directors and writers the freedom to tell stories that push creative and cultural boundaries.
Running from October 22 to 28 at Ayala Malls Cinemas, the inaugural event is a collaboration between Viva’s film production group and Ayala Malls. Festival director Ronald Arguelles said the vision is for CineSilip to become an annual event that provides “young and brave filmmakers a platform to tell stories not often seen in mainstream cinema or those some people still consider taboo.”
Bold stories from emerging Filipino filmmakers
“The festival will feature seven films that give directors and writers the creative freedom to craft stories that captivate moviegoers and spark imagination,” Arguelles said during a recent media conference at Viva Café in Araneta City. “I hope audiences will experience seven films filled with boldness, unafraid to explore passion, tackle stories that stir intrigue, and push the boundaries of Filipino filmmaking.”
The festival lineup spans a range of genres—from horror and comedy to drama. Among the entries is Ang Lihim ni Maria Makinang (The Secret of Maria Makinang) , a coming-of-age drama directed by Gian Arre , starring Gold Aceron, Aiko Garcia, and Mercedes Cabral . It follows Maria, a woman who appears only during the full moon, and her love story with Danilo, tested by time.
Another entry, Babae sa Butas (The Woman in the Hole) , is an erotic drama-comedy by Rhance Añonuevo-Cariño featuring Van
Allen Ong and Vern Kaye . It tells the story of a tricycle driver entangled in a passionate yet deceptive encounter with a mysterious woman.
Dreamboi , an erotic psychological drama directed by Rodina Singh and starring Tony Labrusca and EJ Jallorina , follows a transwoman obsessed with the voice of an underground audio porn star, blurring the line between fantasy and reality.
In Haplos sa Hangin (A Sinful Touch) , an erotic horror film by Mikko Baldoza starring Martin Del Rosario and Denise Esteban , an artist becomes consumed by desire for his neighbor, leading to betrayal and darkness.
Maria Azama: Da Best P rn Star*, a sexy comedy directed by Alan Habon and starring Albie Casiño and Dani Yoshida tells the story of a man whose fantasy comes true when a porn actress comes to life, only
By Chong Ardivilla
THERE’S an old joke in Hollywood: never work with animals because they’re impossible to direct. Yet 2025’s most affecting onscreen performance belongs to Indy, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. Yes, a dog. Indy stars in Good Boy (directed by his actual owner, Ben Leonberg ), a horror film told from the point of view of the animal himself.
This isn’t the first time we’ve watched horror through a dog’s eyes—Courage the Cowardly Dog did it decades ago in animated form—but Good Boy pushes the idea further. Here, the innovation is not just that the dog witnesses the uncanny, but that he engages with it. Horror plays out through his senses: the twitch of a nose in a dark hallway, the pause at an empty corner, the tension of loyalty tested by unseen terrors. We are reminded how often our own pets seem to stare at empty
for him to realize that reality is far from his fantasies.
In Pagdaong (A Midnight Kiss) , a romantic drama directed by Pongs Leonardo starring Angela Morena and Astrid Lee , a writer and a curious student form a bond that reveals the truth behind the writer’s poetic inspirations.
The lineup concludes with Salikmata (Unseen) , an erotic thriller directed by BC Amparado and written by Jason Paul Laxamana , starring Aliya Raymundo and Aerol Carmelo . Set in a small town, it follows a young man caught in scandal and revenge after his affair with a politician’s daughter is exposed.
The CineSilip Film Festival Awards Night will take place on October 27, ahead of the festival’s closing day.
spaces, as if perceiving what we cannot.
The film succeeds because it refuses to reduce Indy to “just a pet.” Instead, he becomes an active agent piecing together the hauntings. While his human remains mostly oblivious, Indy shoulders the task of vigilance and protection—an instinctual kind of love. The camera lingers in his perspective, pulling us into a slow, flickering rhythm of dread, where menace is built through pauses and presence rather than gore and jump scares.
When the trailer first dropped, audiences wondered with genuine anxiety: would the dog survive? Online, dog parents half-joked—and half-threatened—that any harm to Indy would cause riots in theaters. It’s a telling moment of cultural resonance. Pets are now considered children, family members, and even surrogate selves. The fate of Indy became a matter of emotional investment far beyond the film itself. What elevates Good Boy is not just craft but empathy. Among the most touching scenes comes when Indy is shoved aside by his human. The lens holds on his face, registering both hurt and confusion—an emotional beat as moving as any human performance. By the film’s end, Indy has become more than man’s best friend; he is a companion through terror, his loyalty shining even when the world splits between dream, reality, and nightmare.
And perhaps that is the quiet genius of Good Boy . Dogs, like us, feel deeply—but unlike us, they do not cling to resentment. Horror here is not only in ghosts but also in the reminder that, while humans often dwell on betrayal, dogs continue to give love unstained. That, in its way, may be the scariest truth of all.
You may reach Chong Ardivilla at kartunistatonto@gmail. com or chonggo.bsky.social
Indy, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, stars in Ben Leonberg’s horror film ‘Good Boy’ (AI-generated image)
Very Wang Nickie Wang
Festival director Ronald Arguelles opens the inaugural CineSilip Film Festival, championing bold and taboo-breaking Filipino storytelling
From left: Director Rodina Singh with ‘Dreamboi’ cast members EJ Jallorina, Tony Labrusca, and Mig Almendras during the CineSilip Film Festival launch
Director Mikko Baldoza (leftmost) and the cast of ‘Haplos sa Hangin’ present their erotic horror entry exploring desire and betrayal
Director Pongs Leonardo (leftmost) joins the cast of ‘Pagdaong,’ a romantic drama about creative passion and revelation
Director BC Amparado (center) and the cast of ‘Salikmata’, an erotic thriller delving into scandal and revenge
LIFE & SHOWBIZ
By Angelica Villanueva
FOR three days, Filipino travelers can turn their bucket lists into bookings as Klook Travel Fest 2025 unleashes flash deals, jaw-dropping discounts, and free travel perks.
Running from today, Oct. 10, to Oct. 12 at the SM Mall of Asia Main Atrium, the festival will feature Buy-1-Get-1 flash deals, surprise vouchers worth up to P10,000, and exclusive 50 percent off promotions across destinations from Asia to Europe. Admission is free, with gates opening daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
“We’ve strategically patterned our promotions with the results of our Klook Travel Pulse earlier this year to make sure we’re giving our Klookers deals aligned with what they’re actually looking for,” said Ulla Roqueza , Klook Philippines’ associate director for marketing.
Travelers can expect promotions on popular attractions such as Hong Kong Disneyland, BigBus Hong Kong, Ocean Park, and the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car. Singapore’s Mandai Wildlife Reserve and the Disney Cruise Line will also headline exclusive offers, while Vietnam’s Sun World theme parks will be featured in Buy-1-Get-1 deals.
The event also highlights the rise of travel content creators, or “Kreators,” who shared firsthand tips with attendees. Among them are Jax Reyes, known for his viral travel hacks, and Marvin Samaco, who offers budget-friendly itineraries. The Poor Traveler also gave advice for first-timers on international trips.
Roqueza said these sessions were expanded following feedback from last year.
“All of these creators have their own type of traveling, so we increased the number of sessions this year,” she explained. “We want our consumers not only to book but to learn how to maximize their savings and enjoy more meaningful experiences,” she added.
Klook’s growing influence in the Philippines is bolstered by partnerships with the Department of Tourism, where the platform supports initiatives promoting domestic tourism and digitalization.
With over 500,000 experiences in 2,700 destinations worldwide, the company continues to emphasize its three core categories: Play (activities and dining), Stay (hotels), and Move (transport).
More than 20,000 admission tickets have already been downloaded for the event, and organizers expect the number to rise as Filipino travelers gear up for the holiday season.
“We really want our consumers to experience the convenience of booking themselves through the Klook app. At the end of the day, it’s about empowering them to discover their best self through travel,” Roqueza said.
Filipino travelers gear up for Klook Travel Fest 2025
Beyond regional hotspots, Roqueza noted that the company is seeing strong growth in longhaul destinations.
“We are already forecasting that next year, long-haul travel such as Europe and Australia will be something we’ll be pushing,” she continued, adding that DIY tours and unique local activities are also gaining traction among Filipino travelers. Partnerships with major payment providers sweeten the deals further. GCash users can enjoy 0 percent installment plans and extra discounts, while Maya cardholders can score up to 20 percent off hotel bookings. BDO debit and credit cardholders also get 15 percent off their total basket, alongside rewards from Klook’s own loyalty program.
CEBU Pacific (PSE:
THE 3rd edition of Miss Environment International 2025 is finally happening in Manila next month, featuring around forty delegates from around the world who will bring with them not just beauty and grace but powerful voices for change, sustainability, and environmental action.
Presented by the Mutya ng Pilipinas Organization, in partnership with the Climate Change Commission (CCC), the United Nations (UN), and other environmental organizations, Miss Environment International—which was canceled in 2024—campaigns on a platform promoting awareness and action on critical environmental issues like global warming and climate change.
Philippine bet Arianna Charlize Pantaleon, a 22-year-old FilipinoCanadian, will be aiming for a backto-back victory to succeed reigning Miss Environment International 2023 Shannon Robinson, who won the title in June 2023 in Mumbai, India. Born to Filipino parents in Toronto, Canada, Pantaleon, who holds a degree in public speaking and communications, is an advocate for environmental protection, sustainability, and the prevention of domestic violence.
“It’s an amazing opportunity, and I’m very excited. I have been preparing ever since winning the title during Mutya ng Pilipinas 2024. I’m looking forward to the pageant,” Pantaleon said.
“We are very proud to be staging the Miss Environment International 2025 pageant in Manila on November 14. This pageant is not just about
beauty. It’s advocacy in action. We are more for action. For one week, the candidates will know and discover how the Commission is leading climate action,” said CCC Ambassador Mache Torres-Ackerman
“I was very happy when Mache Torres-Ackerman decided to hold the Miss Environment International pageant in the Philippines. She would take it to the next level. It’s about time for the world to have a pageant that embraces the environment seriously and passionately,” said Mutya ng Pilipinas president Cory Quirino * * *
Jether Palomo finishes in Top 11 in Mister Global 2025
THE Philippines’ Jether Palomo ended his journey in Mister Global 2025 by finishing among the Top 11 finalists during the final competition held on Sunday at MCC Hall in Bangkok, Thailand. Palomo also took home the Best Country Presentation Video award.
Alejandro Ortega of Spain, a 25-year-old personal trainer from Valencia, won Mister Global 2025, succeeding Mister Global 2024 Daumier Corilla of the Philippines, who made his farewell walk. William Badell of Venezuela and Alejandro Silva of Mexico were named first and second runners-up, respectively, while Riley Hedstrom of the USA and Cupaioli Adriano of France were third and fourth runners-up. Completing the Top 11 were Nigeria’s Victor Ngoka, China’s Tianxiang Zhao, Korea’s Eric Kang, Uruguay’s Bruno Reyes Romero, and Laos’ Youphalat Phethany, who bagged the Best National Costume award.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2025 lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
N O W & N E X T
‘Saving Our Seas’ mobilizes thousands nationwide for cleaner coastlines
threaten sea turtles and fish to debris that pollutes coral reefs, cleaning coastlines is a vital step toward restoring ocean health.
In a united effort to create cleaner oceans and protect marine life, more than 8,000 volunteers took part in this year’s “Saving Our Seas” coastal cleanup drive led by Century Tuna, expanding the brand’s marine conservation campaign to six
More than 8,000 volunteers, from
to General
1,386 kg of waste plastic along coastal areas
locations across the Philippines.
Now in its third year, the initiative— launched by Century Pacific Food Inc. (CPFI)—marked its biggest turnout yet, drawing volunteers from Manila, Batangas, Subic, Davao, Zamboanga, and General Santos City for the 2025 International Coastal Cleanup Day.
circular economy and marine protection. This year, it collected 1,386 kilograms of plastic waste, up from 357 kilograms last year.
“Our product comes from the sea, and without healthy oceans, we have nothing,” said Carlo Endaya, CPFI
vice president and general manager for the Branded Tuna Division. “This isn’t just about a one-day cleanup but about raising awareness and creating something sustainable through Aling Tindera and the plastic circular economy.”
Century Tuna is one of HOPE’s biggest sponsors here,” said Caroline Beloso Friends of HOPE field coordinator in Mabini, Batangas. “With 29 sites across Mabini, from resorts to local communities, this partnership creates a real impact for our people.”
SMART Communications Inc. has rolled out Video Calls powered by Video over LTE (ViLTE), allowing Smart and TNT subscribers to make video calls directly from their phones without using any app.
The new feature lets users make high-quality video calls as easily as regular voice calls. Charges apply to the caller’s existing voice plan, meaning those with unlimited call offers such as Unli 5G+, PowerAll, or SurfSaya can enjoy virtually unlimited video calls. The call recipient does not need to have an active offer to receive the call.
ViLTE ensures clear, stable, and batteryefficient video connections, even in crowded areas, and allows users to browse or stream while on a call.
The launch follows Smart’s introduction of Voice over LTE (VoLTE) in 2020, which enabled clearer voice calls over LTE and simultaneous data connectivity.
“Our sustained network investments enable us to democratize advanced mobile experiences,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, Smart first vice president. “With ViLTE, we are enhancing everyday communication by empowering our customers with a clearer and more immersive way to connect.”
To activate ViLTE, users must enable VoLTE and ViLTE on their Android phones under Mobile or Cellular Network settings. Both parties must have the feature enabled and be within Smart’s LTE or 5G coverage. The service also works over Wi-Fi. ViLTE is supported by updated Android devices from major brands, including Samsung, Huawei, OPPO, vivo, Xiaomi, and others. More details are available on Smart and TNT’s
The campaign, which began as a single-site cleanup in Batangas in 2023, has grown into a national movement supporting the plastic
In a private and cozy spot in Pasig City, Dr. Montinola practices her profession as a cosmetic surgeon. At the same time, she is an artist who not only transforms appearances but also redefines confidence.
“I wanted to build a space where I could give my patients continuity of care,” she explained, her voice echoing the conviction that led her to establish her own clinic.
“Back then, I was practicing in clinics but couldn’t fully maximize my potential or resources. The pandemic was a big challenge, but it also made us stronger.” Interestingly, her clinic saw a boom six months after the pandemic started, clear proof of her keen understanding of what people needed — a little pampering and a lot of self-love.
Raised with a love for art, Dr. Montinola’s approach to aesthetic medicine merges creativity with precision. “When I see someone, I instinctively know what to fix — even without scientific analysis,” she shared, her natural talent and artistic inclination giving her an edge. Her expertise spans from non-invasive facial treatments to advanced body contouring.
Credentials
A trained specialist in Colombia and the Philippines, Dr. Montinola’s mastery of 360-degree abdominal liposuction and body contouring is impressive.
“I rely on advanced machines and technology, each chosen for a specific purpose. It’s about leveraging the right tools to deliver the best results,” she emphasized. Her commitment to training abroad ensures her standards are unmatched locally, saving her patients time and money.
In an era led by “influencers” who provide aspirational life pegs for their followers, the clinic’s philosophy is refreshingly inclusive.
“Self-care shouldn’t be an exclusive privilege— everyone deserves to feel good about themselves,” she asserted.
That belief guides her practice, which offers premium but affordable services tailored for the working class. From facials and lasers to surgical procedures like rhinoplasty, mommy makeovers, and even male grooming treatments, Dr. Montinola believes beauty is for all.
Power of transformation
Rhinoplasty remains one of Dr. Montinola’s most sought-after procedures, especially given
The initiative, carried out in partnership with Friends of HOPE Inc. and its Aling Tindera waste-tocash program, aims to turn collected plastics into livelihood opportunities for coastal communities. CPFI also collaborated with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of Public Services of Manila, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, and partner brands including Shakey’s, Vita Coco, Beach Hut, and Peri-Peri.
“We are truly thankful because
This year’s drive followed a fan-led push during the meet-and-greet event of Century Tuna brand ambassador Park Seo Joon, where supporters contributed plastic bottles to the cause. Ray Guinoo, CPFI assistant vice president and marketing director for local tuna operations, said the campaign’s reach has multiplied in just three years, with more partners, volunteers, and cleanup sites joining the movement.
Launched in 2023, Century Tuna’s “Saving Our Seas” campaign aims to raise awareness about marine pollution and promote the plastic circular economy through cleanup activities and environmental education programs in schools.
Contouring bodies, reshaping lives
How a Colombia-trained Filipina cosmetic surgeon transforms lives with body contouring
WITH a natural eye for art and a passion for science, Dr. Madeleine “Madz” Montinola established the Montinola Aesthetic Laser Center five years ago, just before the world paused in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
the prominent noses typical among Filipinos.
“We often recommend nose reshaping for balance and harmony,” Dr. Montinola said, emphasizing the importance of respecting natural features. Similarly, double eyelid surgery and neck contouring are popular
among those looking to enhance their natural beauty while maintaining authenticity.
When it comes to the body, her focus on mommy makeovers is evident. “Women who have gone through pregnancy truly deserve it—a chance to reclaim their bodies and boost their confidence,” she affirmed.
Her use of advanced liposuction technology, carefully trained abroad, distinguishes her from others.
“I choose the right device for each patient because everybody is unique,” she explained. Indeed, her approach is holistic. She advocates for realistic expectations and reminds her patients that surgery is a catalyst, not a complete solution.
“It’s about enhancing what’s already beautiful, not trying to conform everyone to a single standard,” she stressed.
Challenging misconceptions and embracing natural beauty
A common myth Dr. Montinola debunks is the permanence of liposuction. “It’s not entirely permanent. It depends on lifestyle—diet, exercise,
and overall health,” she clarified. Her advice? Maintenance is key, and over-liposuction can damage skin health. “It’s just a fast solution. It’s a jumpstart. You have to maintain it,” she said.
Her subtle touch extends to fillers, where she prefers natural harmony over overfilled features. “Less is more. Beauty should feel effortless,” she stated, emphasizing that the goal is to look like a better version of oneself.
For younger patients and teens, she recommends caution. “Wait until at least 18 for major procedures. Development is still ongoing at 16,” Dr. Montinola advised, prioritizing health and natural growth.
Celebrating confidence and self-love
The psychological impact of her work energizes her. Flying in the face of societal standards, Dr. Montinola believes her role is to empower, not to distort.
“I’ve seen patients cry tears of joy after their transformation,” she recalled, her eyes sparkling with fulfillment. One patient’s journey from discomfort to confidence remains one of her most memorable moments.
The clinic is also a safe space for high-profile clients, often anonymously seeking her expertise, earning her the nickname “ghost surgeon” for her discreet service.
For 2026, Dr. Montinola plans to expand, bringing her brand of beauty to more cities.
“Convenience matters—I want my clients near their homes,” she explained, highlighting her desire to make beauty and confidence accessible to everyone, no matter where they are. Her commitment to personalized care remains, with each consultation still personally handled by her to ensure the highest standards.
Follow Montinola Aesthetic Laser Center on Instagram (@montinolaaesthetic) and Dr. Madz Montinola (@dr.madzmontinola). The clinic is open Monday to Friday from 12:00 nn to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.. It is located on the second floor of Tri-Ax
Volunteer divers join the nationwide drive, hauling plastic waste from reefs as the initiative grows year-on-year
CPFI turns over trash bins to fisherfolk in Mabini, Batangas, reinforcing its campaign to promote marine conservation and community-driven waste management
Manila
Santos, collect