Manila Standard - 2025 October 14 - Tuesday

TRUMP TRIUMPHANT AS HAMAS FREES SURVIVING ISRAELI HOSTAGES

By Charles Dantes

Rodrigo Duterte, emphasizing the need to “uphold the rule of law in a civilized society.”

Meanwhile, a latest survey showed that half of the Filipinos believed that Duterte

‘2 Leyte FMRs aboveboard’

Lawyer says ICC may seek arrest of Sen. Bato

By Pot Chavez

THE International Criminal Court (ICC) may seek the arrest of Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa upon the request of the Office of the Prosecutor, ac-

cording to ICC-accredited Assistant to Counsel Kristina Conti. In an interview with the Manila Standard on Monday, Conti expressed confidence, noting that the senator is included in the document containing the charges against former President Rodrigo Duterte. “I know this because I was here in the Philippines at that time.

By Joyce Panares

THE Department of Public Works and Highways and the Department of Agriculture said two farm-tomarket road projects in Tacloban were aboveboard and are all part of the approved infrastructure program of the DA for Eastern Visayas.

• Part of DA masterplan

• Costs validated by DA

• No funds yet for Bagacay

• San Roque 92% done

• Both upheld by DPWH, DA

By Maricel V. Cruz

A DEMOLITION job was launched against former Speaker Martin Romualdez ahead of his scheduled appearance before the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) today (Tuesday), Deputy Speaker and Antipolo City Rep. Ronaldo Puno said yesterday.

Based on the report of the DPWH Tacloban City District Engineering Office and the DA-Regional Field Office VIII, the FMR projects in Brgy. Bagacay and Brgy. San were part of the DA Master Plan. This was contrary to the previous allegation of Senator Sherwin Gatchalian that the Agriculture department did not concur with what he claimed to be “exceedingly over-

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has assured the public that the government has taken measures to keep prices of food and essential goods stable amid recent calamities. In a Palace press briefing on Thursday, Presidential Communications Officer Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the government is carrying out a whole-ofgovernment approach to ensure price stability in the wake of the recent calamities that affected the country.

“Sa gitna ng sunud-sunod na sakuna na naitala sa bansa, sinisiguro ngayon ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. sa publiko ang pagkakaroon ng mga

“I think the timing is sad because the former Speaker is going to speak before the Independent Commission. It appears there’s a bit demolition job that happened,”

“There is scapegoating that is going on, finger-pointing. People are pointing to other people so that they will be able to escape their responsibility,” Puno added. The lawmaker issued the statement amid reports linking farm-to-market road (FMR) projects in Leyte to alleged

By Rex Espiritu

ISRAEL said

ceasefire with Hamas.

lightning visit to Israel came ahead of

summit in the Egyptian resort town of Sharm El-Sheikh co-chaired by

ON HOLD. DPWH photo shows a steep slope where a farm-to-market road project will be built in Brgy. Bagacay. The project, one of two FMRs in Tacloban City, has yet to start. No government funds have been released for the Brgy. Bagacay FMR due to unresolved right-of-way issues. DPWH-TCDEO

ONSITE VISIT. President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. inspects the damage done to the Manay National High School by the twin quakes that hit the Davao Oriental town last Friday. PCO

Remulla recalls 6 Pharmally cases

By Rio N. Araja

NEWLY appointed Ombudsman Jesus Crispin

Remulla on Monday ordered the withdrawal of six of eight graft cases against government officials and Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp. executives filed before the Sandiganbayan involving the purchase of over P4.1 billion medical kits for the COVID-19 government response in 2020.

Remulla said “some details lacking” in the cases, making a review necessary before they could be refiled.

“I want to know the details put in the cases. It’s very important for the Sandiganbayan to have a good grasp of the

cases immediately,” he said.

Remulla also said he intends to consult with ex-senator Richard Gordon on the Pharmally cases to ask why some people involved were not included in the charges.

overpricing and misuse of public funds as the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee said it may also shift its efforts from investigating flood control project anomalies to questionable projects under the Department of Agriculture.

Puno said the FMR projects had passed the scrutiny of the concerned departments.

He said DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. himself had earlier flagged “ghost” and “substandard” FMR projects, but none of those were in Leyte.

“So, I don’t know where that report came from regarding the Leyte farmto-market roads,” Puno said.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian earlier claimed the government lost P10.3 billion from overpriced FMRs built in 2023 and 2024.

Gatchalian said the 10 most overpriced FMR projects were mostly in Regions V (Bicol), VIII (Eastern Visayas), and III (Central Luzon).

Puno, however, lamented that the issue resurfaced only now, conveniently timed to coincide with Romualdez’s ICI appearance.

“There is all of these distractions that are being created and I’m sensing a lynch-mob mentality trying to pin the (former) Speaker alone to all of the things that have happened, which is terribly unfair,” Puno said.

He said the situation has turned into a case of “negative propaganda” that the public should assess more critically.

hakbang na makakatulong sa pagpapatibay sa presyo ng mga bilihin sa bansa,” Castro said.

The Palace assurance was made as a Pulse Asia survey showed that inflation and corruption remain the foremost concerns of Filipinos in September 2025, with wages and crimes belonging in the list, a survey conducted by Pulse Asia showed. In the latest Ulat ng Bayan poll, results showed that over half of Filipino adults (54%) still see inflation as the leading concern, while 51% cite the need of the current administration to fight graft and corruption immediately.

the American president, who has declared the war in Gaza “over.”

In Tel Aviv, a huge crowd which gathered to support hostage families erupted in joy, tears and song as news broke of the first hostage releases, though the pain for the loss of those who had not survived was palpable.

Under the ceasefire deal, Israel is due to release nearly 2,000 prisoners held in its jails.

In the Palestinian city of Ramallah, huge crowds gathered to welcome home the first buses carrying prisoners, with some chanting “Allahu akbar,” or God is the greatest, in celebration.

“Welcome home,” Israel’s foreign ministry said in a series of posts on X, hailing the return of the hostages.

On Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, Noga shared her pain and joy.

“I’m torn between emotion and sadness for those who won’t be coming back,” she said.

Israel has said it does not expect all of the

Those cited as respondents were former Procurement Service-Department of Budget and Management Undersecretary Lloyd Christopher Lao, former overall deputy Ombudsman Warren Rex Liong, Director IV Christine Maria Lecaros Suntay, Procurement Management Officer V Webster Marmol Laurenana, Procurement Management Officer Paul Jasper Villanueva De Guzman, Procurement Management Officer VI Augusto Menchavez Ylagan, and chief of Procurement Division VI Jasonmer Lagarto Uayan. Also charged were Pharmally president and director Twinkle Dargani, treasurer and secretary Mohit Dargani, direc-

tor Linconn Uy Ong, director Justine Garado, board member Huang Tzu Yen, employee Krizzle Grace Ukkong Mago, and financial Manager Lin Weixiong.

Remulla declined however to say if exPresident Rodrigo Duterte would be included upon review of the Pharmally cases. He also noted “something wrong” about the structure of the Office of the Ombudsman.

“Everybody was segregated and not working as a team. They were not connected to each other,” he pointed out.

Since “everybody was in the dark” before, Remulla said the preliminary investigating team and the prosecutors were not synchronized.

Free burial, cremation for indigents now available

By Charles Dantes

A MEASURE granting free funeral services to indigent Filipinos has officially lapsed into law, allowing local governments to provide burial or cremation assistance to the poorest families in the country.

The newly enacted Free Funeral Services Act, or Republic Act 12309, aims to ease the financial burden on low-income households during times of loss by guaranteeing access to dignified fu-

neral arrangements at no cost.

Presidential Communications Office

Undersecretary Claire Castro confirmed that the measure became law after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. neither signed nor vetoed it within the 30-day period prescribed by the Constitution.

Under the law, local government units (LGUs) must coordinate with accredited funeral service providers to offer basic funeral packages, including embalming, a coffin or urn, transport of remains, and burial or cremation services.

LGUs may also set up their own funeral facilities or partner with private operators.

Beneficiaries will be identified based on poverty thresholds and social welfare assessments to ensure that only certified indigent families may avail themselves of the assistance.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in coordination with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), will craft the implementing rules and regulations.

Kiko Barzaga late for ethics probe due to gaming

By Maricel V. Cruz

CAVITE 4th District Rep. Francisco

“Kiko” Barzaga admitted that he arrived late to the House of Representatives Ethics Committee hearing scheduled on Monday due to being busy the previous night playing computer games.

“My hearing was already over by the time I arrived. But I believe my legal team has stated that for me… Very busy last night… I was just playing games on my computer,” Barzaga told the media.

An ethics complaint had been filed against the 27-year-old lawmaker for his alleged misconduct and inciting seditious activity, among others.

“The complaints against me were already discussed before I arrived because I was late for a few minutes,” Barzaga said in a mix of English and Filipino.

The Ethics Committee, chaired by 4Ps party-list Rep. JC Abalos, began the hearing at 9 a.m. sharp. The committee was about to end the day’s meeting when Barzaga stepped into the room.

priced” projects.

DA Region 8 officials said insinuations of irregularity “discredit years of coordinated inter-agency planning and field validation” for the two FMR projects linked.

The DPWH said both projects underwent full validation, design review, and cost evaluation by DA prior to implementation.

The Public Works office also stressed that no government funds have been released yet for the P25 million FMR project in Brgy. Bagacay, noting it has not started due to unresolved rightof-way issues involving the Department of Health–Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (DOH-PITAHC) and the Manobo Tribe, which owns the adjacent land.

This ran counter to Gatchalian’s earlier claim that the government lost P10.3 billion from overpriced FMRs built in 2023 and 2024.

“No funds have been disbursed and no works have begun pending resolution of the right-of-way issue,” the DPWH said in its report.

The Brgy. Bagacay FMR, which was designed to improve access for farmers and residents in the upland barangay, covers 0.32 kilometers of concrete road and extensive earthworks comprising about 80 percent of civil works.

Based on the DWPH document, the validated unit cost of the Brgy. Bagacay FMR’s concrete pavement is P12.71 million per kilometer, well within DA’s accepted range for mountain-type FMRs. Flat or rolling-terrain FMRs typically cost P6 to P9 million/km, while steep or highland roads involving cut-and-fill operations can reach P11 to P13 million/km, as acknowledged in the DA–DPWH joint validation guidelines.

“The project remains valid and beneficial once implemented, as it addresses a critical infrastructure need for the agricultural community,” DPWH Tacloban City District Engineering Office (TCDEO) said in its narrative report.

“The government’s prudent handling of this situation demonstrates due diligence and fiscal responsibility — ensuring that the project, once implemented, will bring long-term benefits without unnecessary expenditure or loss.”

Meanwhile, the San Roque FMR

called himself the “father of tokhang.”

part of the war on drugs. He signed the PNP command memorandum circular for Operation Double Barrel, which ordered the campaign to be carried out nationwide. He was the one directing the police on how to conduct the operations,” she said.

Conti added that Dela Rosa once

dead hostages to be returned on Monday.

Under the ceasefire agreement, Hamas is also due to return the bodies of the 27 hostages who died or were killed in captivity, as well as the remains of a soldier killed in 2014 during a previous Gaza conflict.

Among those Israel was due to release in exchange are 250 security detainees, including many convicted of killing Israelis, while about 1,700 were detained by the Israeli army in Gaza during the war.

‘Nothing looked the same’

On October 7, 2023, militants seized 251 hostages during Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israel, which led to the deaths of 1,219 people, most of them civilians.

All but 47 of those hostages were freed in earlier truces, with the families of those who have remained in captivity leading lives of constant pain and worry for their loved ones.

In Gaza, too, the ceasefire has brought relief, but with much of the territory flattened by war, the road to recovery remains long.

“I returned to Sheikh Radwan with

She also recalled that he dismissed the k illing of a child during a police antidrug operation with the remark “shit happens.”

Because of his key role, she said, it is impossible to exclude Dela Rosa from accountability for the war on drugs.

“So to speak, Bato Dela Rosa is the flip side of Rodrigo Duterte. Justice will not be complete if he is not brought before the ICC,” Conti said.

my heart trembling,” 38-year-old Fatima Salem told AFP after she returned to her neighbourhood in Gaza City.

“My eyes kept searching for landmarks I had lost—nothing looked the same, even the neighbors’ houses were gone.

“Despite the exhaustion and fear, I felt like I was coming back to my safe place. I missed the smell of my home, even if it’s now just rubble. We will pitch a tent next to it and wait for reconstruction.”

‘War is over. Okay?’

Trump’s visit to the Middle East aims to celebrate his role in brokering last week’s ceasefire and hostage release deal—but comes at a precarious time as Israel and Hamas negotiate what comes next.

Speaking to reporters on Air Force One at the start of the “very special” visit, Trump brushed off concerns about whether the ceasefire would endure.

“I think it’s going to hold. I think people are tired of it. It’s been centuries,” he said of the fighting.

“The war is over. Okay? You understand that?” the US president added.

In Israel, Trump was due to meet the families of hostages, before addressing the Israeli parliament in Jerusalem.

Phase 2, worth P99.5 million, is now 92 percent complete as of September 2025. The project covers a 0.287-kilometer road section with additional slope protection and drainage works spanning over 20,000 square meters and 1,900 linear meters, respectively.

“The additional slope protection and drainage structures were essential to prevent erosion and ensure long-term road stability,” said Project Engineer John Nichole Bertulfo in the report.

The completion of the Phase 2 of the San Roque FMR was set for October 30, 2025, following a revised schedule approved by both DA and DPWH.

“The Tacloban FMRs are high-standard, terrain-adapted infrastructure designed to serve mountain communities safely and sustainably,” said a DPWH engineer familiar with the validation process.

“The higher cost reflects terraindriven engineering complexity, safety compliance, and DA-approved modifications — not financial irregularity.”

“When you build a road in the mountains, you don’t just pour concrete — you reshape the land to make it safe for decades. That’s what these projects represent,” the source added.

should be held accountable before the ICC for the killings linked to the war on drugs during his administration.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro made the statement after Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte denounced the ICC proceedings as a “political theater” and vowed retribution against those he accused of “kidnapping” his father.

“We should not have to live in threats. We are in a so-called ‘civilized society’ and we are not in a barbaric world,” Castro stressed during a Palace briefing.

We should respond to what the rule of law is, and we should not be afraid or constantly living in fear,” she added. Castro said while the administration is monitoring developments, it is not a party to the case. The ICC recently denied Duterte’s appeal for interim release as it continues its probe into the former leader’s alleged crimes against humanity linked to the bloody anti-drug campaign.

“The Marcos Jr. administration is not involved in the case currently facing former President Duterte,” Castro said, adding that legal action should be left to the former President’s counsel and the tribunal.

aid distribution for local fishermen.

“This is the closest the Chinese Coast Guard has harassed and bullied BFAR (Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources) vessels,” Tarriela said in a media briefing. “It is very close to Pagasa Island.”

Chinese ships also used water cannons against BFAR vessels during the

Final details

Trump announced in late September

a 20-point plan for Gaza, which helped bring about the ceasefire.

Negotiators were still wrangling late Sunday over the final arrangements for the exchanges, with two Hamas sources telling AFP the group was insisting that Israel include seven senior Palestinian leaders on the list of those to be released.

Israel has previously rejected at least one of those names.

After visiting Israel, Trump will head to Egypt, where he and President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi will co-host a summit of world leaders to back his plan to end the Gaza war and promote Middle East peace.

While Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas is due at the summit, Netanyahu’s office said the Israeli premier will not attend due to the start of a religious holiday.

In Egypt, Trump will be looking to resolve some of the huge uncertainty around the next phases of the peace plan—including Hamas’s refusal to disarm and Israel’s failure to pledge a full withdrawal from the devastated territory.

Trump insisted he had “guarantees” from both sides and other key regional

The Chinese flotilla’s proximity falls well within the territorial waters of Pagasa Island, which is part of Kalayaan town in Palawan province.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said it will file a diplomatic protest against China after a Chinese ship “deliberately rammed” BRP Datu Pagbuaya that was providing cover for Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea.

players about the initial phase of the deal, and the future stages.

A new governing body for devastated Gaza—which Trump himself would head under his own plan—would be established “very quickly,” he added. Under the plan, as Israel conducts a partial withdrawal from Gaza, it will be replaced by a multi-national force coordinated by a US-led command centre in Israel.

Hamas on Monday urged Trump and the mediators of the Gaza deal to ensure Israel does not resume operations in Gaza.

“We call on all mediators and international parties to continue monitoring Israel’s conduct and to ensure it does not resume its aggression against our people in Gaza,” Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem said.

Israel’s campaign in Gaza has killed at least 67,869 people, according to figures from the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory that the United Nations considers credible.

The data does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but indicates that more than half of the dead are women and children.

DOTr revokes protocol plates for agency o icials

By Darwin G. Amojelar

ACTING Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez has ordered the revocation of all protocol license plates issued to officials of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and its attached agencies to prevent misuse and abuse.

The move follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive prohibiting government officials and employees from using special license plates to evade traffic rules or avoid apprehension.

In a memorandum issued on October 13, Lopez revoked all previously issued authorizations to use protocol plates and

House approves P6.793t budget bill on third reading

By Maricel V. Cruz

VOTING 287-12-2, the House of Representatives on Monday approved on third and fi nal reading the proposed ₱6.793-trillion national budget for 2026.

The approved General Appropriations Bill (House Bill 4058) includes reduced allocations for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Office of the Vice President (OVP), and unprogrammed funds — a move criti-

Marcos seeks explanation on ‘overpriced’ body cameras

By Charles Arvin Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been informed of allegations that the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) procured overpriced body cameras, Malacañang confirmed Monday.

Presidential Communications Office

Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President has asked PPA General Manager Jay Santiago to explain the issue. Santiago maintained that the procurement followed standard procedures and did not involve advance payments.

“The unit cost cannot be computed by simply dividing the total contract price by the number of cameras,” the PPA said, explaining that the contract also covers nationwide connectivity, servers, software, training, and system integration.

Castro said the Department of Transportation, led by Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez, has issued a memorandum seeking a formal explanation from Santiago.

Relevant documents, including Commission on Audit reports, have been requested for a possible investigation.

The PPA faces scrutiny after reports compared its body camera prices to lower-priced commercial models. Castro assured that due process will be observed and any irregularities will be addressed.

cized by several legislators.

Akbayan Rep. Chel Diokno said he could not support the budget because of ₱243 billion in unprogrammed appropriations under the Executive Department. “Instead of learning from past ghost projects, corruption

remains unaddressed,” he said. “We asked three questions: Does the 2026 budget support the youth? Does it uplift our people? Does it end the culture of corruption?”

Deputy Minority Leader and Muntinlupa Rep. Leila de Lima echoed Diokno’s opposition, calling for the complete removal of unprogrammed appropriations. “It’s time to stop having unprogrammed funds in the national budget,” she said, noting that such funds have no definite source of financing and allow undue delegation of legisla-

tive power to the Executive.

The approved budget realigned ₱255 billion from the DPWH to social programs, with ₱56 billion going to education agencies, including the Philippine Science High School System, CHED, TESDA, and state universities and colleges.

The OVP’s 2026 budget was cut to ₱733 million, the same as in 2025.

The Makabayan bloc also decried what it described as “presidential pork” amounting to at least ₱281 billion in unprogrammed funds and confidential allocations.

Metro schools start disinfection, cleaning

By Ram Superable

SCHOOLS across Metro Manila on Monday began cleaning operations after the Department of Education (DepEd) suspended classes from October 13 to 14 for disinfection and structural inspections following flu and earthquake concerns.

Malabon Mayor Jeannie Sandoval said disinfection and inspec-

tion were conducted at Malabon National High School, with similar activities in other schools.

The Department of Health (DOH), however, said the suspension was not due to any health emergency, noting that influenzalike illness cases have decreased compared to last year.

Health Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said the current situation reflects the usual flu season and

urged the public not to panic. “This is mainly for earthquake preparedness. Flu-like illness cases have even dropped by eight percent,” he said.

The DOH advised the public to maintain proper hygiene, frequent handwashing, and the use of sanitizers. “It would be better if healthrelated announcements came from the DOH to ensure accurate information,” Domingo added.

directed officials to surrender them.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has been tasked to coordinate implementation and review provisions under Joint Administrative Order (JAO) 2024-001. Under the JAO, the issuance of low-numbered or protocol plates has been streamlined to prevent unauthorized use by government officials or private individuals. Lopez also banned the use of sirens, blinkers, and similar signaling devices by DOTr officials, following Marcos’ Administrative Order No. 18, which limits their use in government vehicles.

said Monday. PNP-HPG Director Col. Hansel Marantan identified the vehicles as a Nissan Navarra and a Nissan Terra, both running on diesel but fitted with green plates reserved for electric or hybrid units. The plates, reportedly issued by a dealership and possibly linked to the Land Transportation Office (LTO), were voluntarily turned over after going viral on social media. Businessman Oliver Cutamora, owner of the Nissan Terra, said the green plates came from his dealer and that he immediately sought correction. Marantan said the case is under investigation, noting reports that fake green plates are being sold for P15,000 to P30,000. LTO chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao confirmed the vehicles were registered under regular plates and ordered a probe into how the green plates were issued. He called the incident “a serious matter” that needs tracing of those responsible. Vince Lopez

PH, Croatia commit to stronger relations

FOREIGN Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro and Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman reaffirmed the Philippines-Croatia partnership in defense, trade, and labor during a bilateral meeting in Manila on Monday. Lazaro said the discussions explored cooperation in maritime affairs, science and technology, education, and tourism. She highlighted investment opportunities for Croatia in manufacturing, IT-BPO, food and beverage, and creative industries.

Radman praised the strengthening of institutional frameworks on labor and employment, calling the meeting “open and fruitful.” He also expressed support for the Philippines’ bid for a seat in the United Nations Security Council for 2027–2028. Lazaro assured Croatia of the Philippines’ “unwavering commitment” to deepening ties between the two nations. Katrina Mikaela Manubay

UP. Schools across

Manila begin

operations after the DepEd-NCR suspends classes from October 13 to 14 for disinfection and inspection amid u and quake concerns.

BENGUET BEAUTIES. Miss Universe Philippines–Benguet contingents showcase their beauty and talent in traditional attire during the preliminary competition in Baguio City. Dave Leprozo

SMART HOUSES. The DPWH, in partnership with the DHSUD, starts building smart houses in San Remegio Tent City to provide safe homes for families displaced by the Cebu earthquake.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2025

IN BRIEF

Bill grants protection for indigent widows

QUEZON City Fifth District Rep.

Patrick Michael Vargas on Monday filed a bill seeking to extend protection for indigent widows, especially the elderlies.

House Bill 5395, titled “Widowed Persons Assistance Act,” provides financial assistance, psychosocial counselling, livelihood support, and priority access to social services for indigent widowed Filipinos, notably the seniors who are struggling to rebuild their lives after losing their husbands.

Vargas filed the measure to reaffirm his commitment to championing the welfare of elderly Filipinos, especially the widows.

“The proposed ‘Widowed Persons Assistance Act’ seeks to close these gaps by institutionalizing a comprehensive support framework that will provide temporary financial assistance, psychosocial counseling and peer support groups, livelihood and capacity-building support, and priority access to social services,” Vargas said in the explanatory note of the bill filed on Oct. 9. Maricel V. Cruz

Biking holdup man didn’t go far this time

HOT pursuit paid up for the Manila policemen who quickly responded to an early morning holdup incident pulled by a bicycle-riding man against two minors.

The suspect, identified as Billy Boy Pilizan, 28, of Paco, Manila was arrested shortly after the victims reported that a bicycle-riding man robbed them at knifepoint then fled with their iphones.

But Pilizan did not go far as he was promptly collared by pursuing operatives of the Manila Police District Station 10.

The police have filed armed robbery case against the suspect. Ichie G. Cabayan

Tulfo poised to file bill banning license-for-rent

SENATOR Erwin Tulfo said he will file a bill seeking to criminalize the “license for rent” scheme, which was uncovered as a major operation in the Senate’s investigation into the flood control scam.

The measure, titled the “License Integrity Act,” aims to penalize the lending, borrowing, or fraudulent use of government-issued licenses. Under the bill, offenders would face imprisonment ranging from three to twelve years, and fines between P300,000 and P3 million.

The bill seeks to cover licenses issued by the Department of Public Works and Highways for contractors, the Bureau of Customs for Customs brokers, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for environmental compliance. Ram Superable

Gibo orders PH-wide quake drills

By Rex Espiritu

WITH strong temblors shaking various parts of the country in short-term succession, Defense Secretary and National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) chairman Gilberto Teodoro Jr. ordered a comprehensive review of earthquake contingency plans and the conduct of preparedness drills in regions not affected by the recent strong earthquakes in Davao and Cebu.

The directive was issued during the National Inter-Agency Coordinating Cell (NIACC) meeting of the NDRRMC on the weekend as part of efforts to strengthen disaster readiness across the country. Teodoro instructed the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and other member agencies to coordinate closely with local government units (LGUs) to ensure that local contingency plans and disaster protocols are reviewed, validated, and updated. He also urged the conduct of largescale earthquake drills, particularly in public areas such as schools, government offices, and other key facili-

ties. “In places not affected by the tremors, please tell the LGUs to review o practice earthquake drill protocols,” Teodoro said, emphasizing the need for proactive measures even in areas not directly hit by recent quakes. The directive came in the wake of two major earthquakes that struck Manay, Davao Oriental, on Friday — a magnitude 7.4 main shock at 9:43 a.m. and a magnitude 6.8 aftershock at 7:12

New rules out on minors travelling alone overseas

By Maricel V. Cruz

STARTING Monday (Oct.13), minors going abroad alone or without their parents can use their travel clearance certificates (TCC) for one year from date of issuance, subject to certain conditions stipulated in a memorandum circular issued by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

DSWD assistant secretary Ada Colico for protective programs said any changes in the travel destination, companion, or purpose of the child’s travel will still

require applicants to secure a new TCC from the DSWD.

This was spelled out in the DSWD’s Memorandum Circular 19, S. 2025, which amended the validity period of the TCC and the certificate of exemption (CE) for minors traveling abroad.

“Recognizing the need to improve service delivery and upon consultation with relevant stakeholders, the Department decided to extend the validity period for the TCC, as long as the child’s travel companion, purpose of travel, and destination country/countries remain the

Probe ordered on slay of NIA ‘whistleblower’

By Vince Lopez

this case to identify and arrest all those behind this senseless killing,” Nartatez said.

He directed the Region 10 police to prioritize the case and activate a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) dedicated solely to the task.

He also instructed investigators to coordinate closely with the NIA-10 for a full background on the whistleblower’s recent activities and allegations about irregularities.

“The PNP is now conducting a thorough investigation into this incident. Our investigators from the PRO-10, in coordination with the local police and the CIDG, are gathering all available evidence, including CCTV footage and testimonies from witnesses,” Nartatez said.

same. This is to ensure that children will be safe from child trafficking and exploitation,” Colico said. A travel clearance is required for minors or individuals below 18 years old traveling overseas without either of their parents or persons having parental responsibility or legal custody over the child.

Applications for TCC and CE can be done online through the DSWD’s Minors Traveling Abroad (MTA) digital platform. The CE of minors traveling outside

the country no longer has an expiration and may be used multiple times by the holder under the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) Guidelines on Departure Formalities, provided that the child is traveling with their biological father with sole parental authority or legal custody (if parents are not married); substitute parents (grandparents or nearest kin) if the minor is an orphan of married parents; or, substitute parents or nearest maternal kin if the minor is an orphan of unmarried parents.

Marcos issues order granting awards to Filipino innovators

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued an executive order (EO) establishing the Presidential Filipinnovation Awards, an initiative recognizing outstanding Filipino innovators and enterprises that contribute to the country’s development through innovation.

Signed on Oct. 6, EO 99 is anchored on Republic Act (RA) No. 11293 or the Philippine Innovation Act which promotes innovation as a vital component of national development and sustainable economic growth.

Envisioned to be the country’s most prestigious innovation competition, the Filipinnovation Awards aims to “bring out the best Filipino innovators and allow them to demonstrate their talents; serve as a platform to connect innovators with industry stakeholders and potential partners, including local and foreign investors; and foster a more robust innovation ecosystem in the country.”

It will be an annual competition to honor Filipino-owned and registered individuals or enterprises whose products or services are at the early stages of commercialization, EO 99 read, The winners will be awarded by the President or the Executive Secretary. They will receive a medallion and a plaque bearing the seal, citation, and signature of the President. In addition, the awardees will also receive a grant or support such as mentorship, coaching, or opportunities to participate in international events to further promote and develop their creations. The National Innovation Council (NIC) will establish a screening committee to manage the nationwide search and to form a board of judges at both national and sub-national levels. These bodies will evaluate submissions based on established criteria and ensure transparency and fairness throughout the process.

ANTI-CORRUPTION PROTEST. Students of De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde

SAFETY CHECK. Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, accompanied by officials of the City Engineering Department, inspect city schools including the Malabon National High School to ensure the buildings’ integrity and the students’ safety in case of earthquakes. Andrew Rabulan

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS. Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office personnel, along with rescue units from the Bureau of Fire Protection and other agencies, conduct disaster-preparedness drill at a popular mall in conjunction with the observance of the 2025 International Day for Disaster and Risk Reduction. Norman Cruz

OPINION

Why I am not in gov’t

HAVING been a journalist for more than seven decades, I had covered most of the government agencies.

When I covered the Bureau of Customs, I considered it the worst government agency because of the amount of smuggling that went through it, often with the connivance of politicians.

I could not blame people for concluding that whenever a government official displayed excess luxury or sudden wealth, they assumed he was with the BOC.

I also covered the Department of Public Works and Highways. It was not as bad as it is today.

Now, people working with the DPWH are even ashamed to wear their uniforms. Today we see the amount of anomalies committed by contractors, district engineers and public officials involved in government projects, especially in projects involving public works, roads, bridges and government buildings, amounting not only to millions or billions, but to trillions of pesos.

I never thought people involved in government projects would resort to committing what they are now doing involving billions of pesos.

Take for example the Discaya couple, Curlee and Sara, having 40 luxury vehicles, when they can ride in only one at a time. How can people commit such anomalies?

I am also amazed at the amount of greed people have to obtain helicopters, private planes and numerous mansions.

But I see now their insatiable greed committing tax evasion amounting to more than 7 billion pesos. There is the anomaly at the DPWH in having ghost projects. This means the district engineers approved the non-existent projects. That to me is the height of graft and corruption. They should be punished like in the olden times where people were guillotined or hanged.

In my previous columns, I advocated against the death penalty, but as I see it now, people committing such kinds of graft and anomalies deserve no less than the death penalty, if only to instill in their hearts the fear of committing crimes against people, Santa Banana!

How can the country ever recover the money of the people lost from these anomalies?

I do not see any way the people can recover the money stolen from them. I cannot imagine ghost projects amounting to ½ of 8000 government projects.

People have asked me many times why I never worked in government.

I tell them that I have covered most of the government agencies and I know only

too well that when you work for the government, people become suspicious of you and think that whatever you own or have was obtained from your committing graft and corruption.

I have been offered to be a press secretary twice -- once during the time of President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. and another during the term of President Fidel Valdez Ramos.

I was also offered to be a mayor, then a congressman and even governor in my province of Abra. But I was never tempted to accept them

I cannot imagine how people can be so greedy that they involve themselves in ghost projects or nonexistent projects and get away with it

Santa Banana, how in the world can people who are victims of poverty make their lives better if the money supposed to help them was stolen from the government.

Now, being associated with the government sometimes is looked upon as shameful, especially now, with all the anomalies where the money of the people is stolen from them, in cooperation with people also in government or people supposed to work for the government, like contractors for flood control projects.

I don’t know how we can ever recover all the trillions that these people in their insatiable greed have stolen.

I cannot imagine how people can be so greedy that they involve themselves in ghost projects or non-existent projects and get away with it.

There are now also reports of ghost or non-existent hospitals, Santa Banana!

The question has been asked of me as a journalist: what can be done to stop all these anomalies and how can the money of the people be recovered?

I cannot say how it can be done.

As President Marcos Jr. said,in his last State of the Nation Address “Mahiya naman kayo.”

Unfortunately, being in government, you can either join a syndicate of corrupt people or, if you choose to try to reform government, you will end up fighting against the windmills, like Don Quixote.

Executive’s blank check: House’s billion-peso blunder

STEP right up to the 2026 General Appropriations Bill, where P243.2 billion in “unprogrammed funds” plays a dazzling shell game, slipping through the fingers of oversight like fiscal pixie dust.

This isn’t a budget; it’s Malacañang’s magic wand, waving away transparency to conjure patronage at will. Rep. Chel Diokno, the lone whistleblower in this carnival of corruption, tried to smash this rigged game, only to be shouted down by the House of Representatives’ “Ayes” in a viva voce vote that sounded like a guillotine’s drop.

This rejection isn’t a policy blunder— it’s a Constitutional con job, turning the power of the purse into a piñata for the Executive to bash open. Hold tight, because this isn’t a budget— it’s a billion-peso betrayal, and your wallet’s the target. The Constitutional Sellout: From Purse to Piggy Bank

The 1987 Constitution declares with righteous clarity: no money leaves the Treasury without an appropriation made by law. This is the sacred power of the purse, ensuring Congress, not the Executive, decides how your taxes are spent. Yet, by preserving P243.2 billion in unprogrammed funds, the House has traded this duty for a farce: the power of the purse-strings, gripped tightly by Malacañang.

These lump-sum funds, free from lineitem scrutiny, are a blank check for pet projects or loyal allies.

Diokno demanded that these funds— subsidies for farmers, Pantawid Pamilyang

Pilipino Program shortfalls, foreign-assisted projects—be programmed, named, and debated.

But the House decided transparency is for suckers. Why bother with accountability when you can have a fiscal free-for-all?

Déjà Vu and Judicial Ghosts: Same Script, New Scandal

This isn’t the House’s first rodeo. Remember the Priority Development Assistance Fund and Disbursement Acceleration Program?

The Constitution waits, and the clock ticks

The Supreme Court obliterated them, ruling that mechanisms letting the Executive bypass Congress’s appropriation power or reallocate funds without oversight are unconstitutional.

Yet, here we are, with unprogrammed funds as the spiritual heirs of those scandals—same patronage potential, new packaging.

The House is testing the Court’s patience like a toddler poking a sleeping lion. Haven’t we seen this movie before?

Spoiler: it ends in a Constitutional dumpster fire.

Flimsy Excuses Roasted: A Pathetic Defense

The House, led by Rep. Mikaela Angela Suansing, offered three excuses for clinging to this Magic Money Pot.

Let’s carve them up. First, they claim foreign-assisted

and flags being swept away. Composition horizontal, high contrast, turbulent sea, tense atmosphere. Emphasize human figures clinging to debris. Allegory for geopolitical aggression and ordinary citizens caught in the ripples. Tone: urgent, socially critical, dark satire.

EDITORIAL

PH coral reefs in danger zone

CORAL reefs in the Philippines, which lies in the Coral Triangle region, are in a danger zone and are threatened, according to marine biologists and conservationists, by 2030 if current trends are not interrupted.

The Coral Triangle, a marine region in the western Pacific Ocean, encompasses the waters of six countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, the Solomon Islands, and TimorLeste.

Coral ecologists consider the Triangle the global center of marine biodiversity they call the “Amazon of the Seas.”

Identified as the global epicenter of marine biodiversity, the 5.7 square-kilometer ocean waters support the highest number of species of corals, coral reef fishes, and six of the world’s seven species of marine turtles.

It is critical for the health of the world’s oceans, serving as a vital spawning and growth area for species like tuna and supporting the livelihoods of over 126 million people.

Ecologists have warned that Philippine coral reefs are in a danger zone, with most considered threatened or in poor to fair condition due to threats like overfishing, destructive fishing practices, pollution, and climate change.

Studies made available to the public

projects can’t be programmed because they lack final contracts or National Economic and Development Authority approval.

This is a chicken-and-egg fallacy of their own making.

Why budget billions for half-baked projects?

Shouldn’t Congress demand finalized deals before the budget passes?

It’s not a defense; it’s incompetence.

Second, they cry diplomatic blackmail, saying cuts might offend multilateral partners. Spare me.

Those institutions would choke on the opacity of a P243.2-billion lump sum.

If these projects are vital, program them with clear milestones.

Finally, they tout P45 billion for social programs like farmer subsidies.

Noble, but why leave critical programs in budgetary limbo, dependent on revenue luck? This is charity by roulette, not governance by design.

These aren’t reasons; they’re a smoke-

but at times played down if not ignored, with other issues grabbing the immediate attention of many, have indicated about 90 percent of Philippine reefs are in poor to fair condition.

We need to see stronger collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector in arresting the threat

One report suggests nearly all reefs in the Triangle will be threatened five years from now unless current trends were not checked. While there is no single, exact number for how many coral reefs are in the Triangle, scientists believe it contains an estimated 30 percent of the world’s total

screen for patronage.

The Rot Sets In: Patronage and Showdowns

This decision is a blueprint for decay.

Unprogrammed funds are perfect for patronage politics—releases timed to reward allies or sway voters. With elections looming, picture sudden “subsidies” before a key vote or projects funneled to loyal districts. This isn’t speculation; it’s history repeating. Worse, it invites a Constitutional showdown.

The Supreme Court won’t sit idly by if these funds become Malacañang’s ATM. Expect a petition faster than you can say “technical malversation.”

The Code of Conduct for public officials demands transparency, yet the House’s vote screams the opposite. Every “Aye” voter should brace for audits or Ombudsman scrutiny.

The Cure to Fiscal Fraud: A Bulletproof Fix

coral reefs, about 78,272 square kms. It is home to the highest coral diversity in the world, with 76 percent of the world’s known coral species (over 600 species) and an astonishing variety of fish and marine life.

But it is encouraging to note the Philippine government has embraced goals from the Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries and Food Security, or CTI-CFF, to work toward sustainable development.

This is a multilateral partnership of six countries in the Triangle working to protect the region’s extraordinary marine and coastal resources.

But the general public must feel and see how the initiative, which aims to address threats from climate change and human activities to conserve the region’s enormous biodiversity, secure food resources, and support local livelihoods, is translated into what they can quickly perceive.

We know the government has geared up efforts, which include strengthening management, expanding marine protected areas, and enforcing laws, while conservationists are working with local communities on restoration projects, using methods like building metal nurseries to grow new coral colonies. We need to see stronger collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector in arresting the threat to the coral reefs.

If the House believes in its virtue, it should embrace a fix: a Model Amendment demanding specificity (name projects and agencies), triggers (certify excess revenue or loans), transparency (realtime budget postings), oversight (Congressional concurrence for big releases), and a sunset clause (cap unprogrammed funds at 2 percent of the budget).

This isn’t rocket science; it’s governance. Rejecting this signals they’re guarding a system ripe for abuse.

The Final Act: Who Dares Challenge?

The House’s rejection is a gauntlet thrown at every Filipino valuing Constitutional integrity. The P243.2-billion Magic Money Pot sits, a fiscal time bomb. Who will drag this con job to the Supreme Court—Diokno, a watchdog, or a fed-up taxpayer?

The Constitution waits, and the clock ticks.

This is Citizen Barok, wondering why the House thinks it can outfox the ghosts of past scandals. Spoiler: it won’t.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

IN BRIEF

New Zealand accused of ‘climate denial’

WELLINGTON – Environmental campaigners have accused New Zealand’s government of “full-blown climate denial” after it slashed targets for reducing emissions of methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. New Zealand’s right-leaning coalition government outlined plans on Sunday to reduce methane emissions by between 14 and 24 percent by 2050, compared to 2017 levels.

The previous target was between 24 and 47 percent.

Farmers -- who had taken issue with the previous target -- praised the move, but scientists and opposition parties criticized it as “weak” and “unambitious”.

Greenpeace’s New Zealand office said the policy shift “amounts to full-blown climate denial”.

Amanda Larsson, a climate campaigner with the environmental group, said Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was “choosing... corporate profits over our kids’ future”. AFP

World’s coral reefs

‘near survival limit’

PARIS – The world’s tropical coral reefs have almost certainly crossed a point of no return as oceans warm beyond a level most can survive, a major scientific report announced on Monday.

It is the first time scientists have declared that Earth has likely reached a socalled “tipping point” -- a shift that could trigger massive and often permanent changes in the natural world.

“Sadly, we’re now almost certain that we crossed one of those tipping points for warm water or tropical coral reefs,” report lead Tim Lenton, a climate and Earth system scientist at the University of Exeter, told AFP.

This conclusion was supported by realworld observations of “unprecedented” coral death across tropical reefs since the first comprehensive assessment of tipping points science was published in 2023, the authors said. AFP

Child workers still common in Pakistan

KARACHI – From the age of 10, Amina has been scrubbing, sweeping and cooking in a middle-class home in Pakistan’s megacity of Karachi.

Like millions of Pakistani children, she is a household helper, an illegal but common practice that brings grief to families often too poor to seek justice.

“Alongside my mother, I cut vegetables, wash dishes, sweep the floor and mop. I hate working for this family,” said the 13-year-old, who leaves her slum neighborhood in Karachi at 7 am and often returns after dark.

“Sometimes we work on Sundays even though it’s supposed to be our only day off, and that’s really unfair.”

One in four households in a country of 255 million people employs a child as a domestic worker, mostly girls aged 10 to 14, according to a 2022 report by the International Labor Organization. AFP

Sarkozy to learn start date, place of 5-year jail term

PARIS – Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy was expected to learn Monday when and where he will serve out his prison term after a court sentenced him last month to five years behind bars for criminal conspiracy.

Sarkozy, France’s leader from 2007 to 2012, was convicted in late September over a scheme for late Libyan dictator Moamer Kadhafi to fund his 2007 presidential run. He has denied the charges and appealed that conviction, though under French law his sentence will be implemented even as his appeal plays out.

The 70-year-old will be the first French postwar leader and the first former head of a European Union country to serve jail time.

Sarkozy will be incarcerated “relatively soon”, a judicial source who spoke on condition of anonymity told AFP after his sentencing, without offering details. Extra security measures are expected, with Sarkozy possibly placed in a unit for vulnerable prisoners or held in solitary confinement.

The former president immediately appealed his September conviction, with a new trial expected in the coming months.

The Paris appeals court has up to 18 months to organize it. Once jailed, his lawyers can petition the appeals court for his release, but he will remain in custody unless it decides otherwise.

During the trial, prosecutors argued Sarkozy and his aides, acting with his authority and in his name, struck a deal with Kadhafi in 2005 to illegally fund his victorious presidential election bid two years later. AFP

China detains eminent ‘underground’ pastor in crackdown

BEIJING – The founder of a prominent Chinese underground church has been detained along with more than 20 of its members in a sweeping national crackdown, according to his daughter and one of its pastors.

Police arrested Jin Mingri, who founded the unregistered Zion Church, at his home in the southern region of Guangxi

on Friday along with several pastors in other cities including Beijing were taken into custody overnight. Jin was detained on “suspicion of the illegal use of information networks”, a detention notice verified by AFP showed.

At least seven pastors including Jin, who also goes by Ezra, may face criminal charges for “illegal dissemination of

religious information via the internet,” according to a church statement.

Police searched their homes and confiscated their computers and cell phones.

“It is just a blatant attack on religious freedom,” Jin’s daughter Grace said.

Since Thursday, police have apprehended church leaders and members in Shanghai, Beijing, Zhejiang, Guangxi,

Shandong, Sichuan and Henan, according to a list compiled by church members seen by AFP.

Four people have since been released following interrogation.

Police barred lawyers from meeting detained church members in the Guangxi city of Beihai on Monday morning, according to Grace. AFP

Trump says may warn Putin Kyiv could get Tomahawks W

Japan wraps up suddenly successful World Expo

TOKYO – Japan brought down the curtain Monday on the six-month World Expo, having surmounted initially tepid public enthusiasm, contaminated fountains and swarms of pesky flies to welcome more than 27 million visitors.

Expo 2025’s star attraction, the Grand Ring -- the world’s largest wooden structure, surrounding all the country pavilions -- has proven such a hit that a high school student has even launched a petition to save it. Currently, the plan is for a 200-meter section of the ring, the work of renowned Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto, to be preserved on an artificial island in host

city Osaka.

But the nearly 7,000 petitioners say they want it saved in its entirety.

“At the moment I stepped onto the ring, something inside me changed,” the Osaka school student who began the campaign said, writing on the online petition site.

“Standing beneath the 20-metrehigh wooden roof, I felt the warmth of the wood seep through my entire body, filling me with an indescribable emotion.”

Japan had feared scant media and public interest would make the Expo a flop.

But organizers say the event -- which

As raids ramp up, Chicago’s Latino economy withers

CHICAGO – The quinceanera dress shops in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood are usually bustling enterprises, reflecting the buoyant mood of Latino families eyeing a brighter future. Not anymore.

Businesses across the Midwestern city’s immigrant-heavy districts are in peril, as a crackdown by US President Donald Trump’s administration ripples through communities and sends terrified immigrants indoors and out of view -- regardless of their citizenship status.

At the heart of Little Village, nicknamed the Mexico of the Midwest for its vibrant Mexican culture and cuisine, streets were eerily empty Friday night -- when the hub is usually thumping with energy. Restaurants are closing early and laying off staff. Construction sites are dark. One of the dozen quinceanera shops in

Little Village -- where families buy lavish gowns for their daughters’ comingof-age parties -- already went out of business, in September.

For Ariella Santoyo, owner of My Quince World, the crackdown’s snowballing effect on a billion-dollar immigrant economy is reminiscent of COVID and how the pandemic devastated the area.

“Definitely we have seen a decline this year” since Trump returned to the White House vowing to escalate deportations, Santoyo, 38, told AFP as she embellished the embroidery on a gown.

Now with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detaining undocumented migrants and even US citizens in an escalating series of raids in the Democratic-run city, she has experienced “about a 40 percent loss” in business. AFP

involved around 160 countries and regions showcasing their technology, culture and food -- will likely turn a profit of at least 23 billion yen ($150 million), thanks in part to strong ticket sales.

The highlights included a Mars meteorite, a beating artificial heart grown from stem cells, and Hello Kitty figures in the form of algae.

It was a heartening turnaround for the initially embattled exhibition, which is held in a new city every five years.

The Osaka event faced complaints that clouds of midges were swarming the venue and that its Water Plaza had been contaminated with legionella bacteria. AFP

ASHINGTON, DC – US

President

Donald Trump said Sunday (Monday, Manila time) he may warn Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin that Ukraine could get Tomahawk cruise missiles if Moscow does not end its invasion.

Trump has been mulling potential supplies of the long-range missiles to Kyiv via European allies since his meeting with Putin in Alaska in August failed to produce a peace deal.

“I might talk to him. I might say, ‘look, if this war is not going to get settled, I’m going to send them Tomahawks,’” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One when asked if he would raise the subject with Putin himself. The US leader said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had asked for Tomahawks when they were discussing a fresh supply of weapons for Kyiv in a call on Saturday.

“Tomahawks are a new step of aggression,” added Trump, who was traveling to Israel and Egypt to push for a longterm Gaza peace deal.

“Do they want to have Tomahawks going in their direction? I don’t think so.” Putin has previously warned against supplying Kyiv with Tomahawks, saying it would be a major escalation and affect relations between Washington and Moscow.

Trump has repeatedly said that the Ukraine war, now in its fourth year, is the toughest of a number of conflicts that he claims to have solved since his return to power in January.

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of pro-Western Ukraine in February 2022.

Ukraine said Monday it was introducing restrictions on energy consumption in at least seven regions following a series of recent Russian aerial attacks on power facilities.

“Due to the complicated situation in Ukraine’s Unified Energy System caused by previous Russian strikes, emergency power outages were implemented” across seven regions, the energy ministry said on social media. AFP

In minutes, Mexico’s rains swept away homes and people; 47 dead

HUAUCHINANGO, Mexico – Standing near the lifeless body of her sister, Rosalia Ortega was grateful to have found her in the river of mud that suddenly swept away her house as torrential rains pounded her Mexican mountain town.

At least 47 people have died since Thursday as floods have wreaked a trail of destruction in the hardest-hit states of Hidalgo, Puebla, Queretaro and Veracruz.

“We’re sad, but at least we’re going to give her a Christian burial,” Ortega, 76, told AFP in the town of Huauchinango, in Puebla, a state east of Mexico City that according to official reports saw nine deaths and substantial damage.

The disaster zone is the Sierra Madre Oriental, a mountain range that runs parallel to Mexico’s east coast and is dotted with villages where telecommunications and other services have yet to be restored.

On Thursday, well after dark, a rainswollen mountain river overflowed its banks in Huauchinango and within minutes robbed local residents of their homes and, in some cases, their loved ones.

That’s what happened

TRUMP’S THREAT. Part of the proceeds from ticket sales will go to support the mobile fire teams of the 27th Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine, which defend the skies over the Kyiv region. A motorcycle racer prepares to compete in the final Ukrainian Championship and Cup in SBK UA road and circuit motorcycle racing in Chayka Motorsports Complex in Kyiv, on Oct. 12, 2025, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The US leader said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had asked for Tomahawks when they were discussing a fresh supply of weapons for Kyiv in a call on Saturday. AFP

PRISON ESCAPEES. A total 20 members of the Barrio 18 gang, designated by the United States as a ‘foreign terrorist organization,’ escaped from a prison in Guatemala, the director of the Penitentiary System, Ludin Godínez, reported Monday, Manila time. Handout photo released by Guatemala’s Interior Ministry press office shows Mara 18 gang members during a raid at Fraijanes II prison in Guatemala City during the weekend. The members ‘evaded security controls’ an officials are investigating possible acts of corruption. AFP

Opao continues family legacy with bronze finish in Singapore

By Peter Atencio

SOPHIA “Opao” Catantan delivered an outstanding performance to capture a bronze medal on the final day of the 2025 FIE Singapore Foil Satellite, held Sunday at the OCBC Arena in Singapore.

Seeded 24th after posting three wins and three losses in the pool round, the University of the East (UE) Red Warriors junior standout made an impressive run in the Direct Elimination stage to reach the semifinals.

Catantan, the youngest sister of Paris Olympian Samantha Catantan, advanced past Chang Manli of Chinese Taipei with a commanding 15–5 victory in the Round of 64, then defeated Singapore’s Angellena Wong,

15–10, in the Round of 32. She maintained her fine form by outdueling Thi Thu Phuong Nguyen of Vietnam, 15–11, in the Round of 16, before pulling off a stunning upset over tournament top seed Aila Mamedova, 15–12, in the quarterfinals to secure a spot in the medal round.

Although she fell to No. 4 seed Vladislava Peniushkina, 15–3, in the semifinals, Catantan’s bronze finish marked a historic milestone — the first by a Filipina fencer in an international competition since

Maxine Esteban’s podium finish years earlier.

“Happy and proud to bring home bronze, and mas special kasi andito halos buong family ko kasama ko sa Singapore to watch and support. Si Ate Sam lang po ang wala pero tutok sa social media maski gabi na po sa US,” said Catantan, who turns 16 on November 10.

A Grade 10 student at UE, Catantan now shifts her focus to the upcoming 2025 Junior World Cup and the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this December.

UP edges Ateneo in UAAP football’s ‘Battle of Katipunan’

IN a classic showdown between two neighbors, University of the Philippines outlasted Ateneo de Manila University, 3-2, to claim bragging rights in this year’s first Battle of Katipunan in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament on Sunday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium. With the win, the Fighting Maroons continued to lead the standings with 13 points and a goal difference of +5.

“I think the boys showed true heart and a lot of character,” said UP head coach Popoy Clarino.

Lorenz Tortona drew first blood for the Fighting Maroons just two minutes into the match, heading the ball into the net and giving UP and its supporters a dream start.

Ateneo, however, quickly retaliated. Ghanaian forward Kofi Agyei capitalized on a loose ball and took advantage of UP goalkeeper Fonzy Gonzales being down on the pitch to level the score for the Blue Eagles in the 19th minute.

Agyei then came close to giving Ateneo the lead in the 28th minute, but Gonzales redeemed him -

BUKIDNON—Familiarity with the tight, tree-lined fairways of Del Monte Golf Club may offer some edge, but Clyde Mondilla and Reymon Jaraula know it will take far more than local knowledge to dominate the ICTSI Del Monte Championship once again.

The homegrown aces finished 1-2 the last time the Philippine Golf Tour visited this mountain-top layout in 2023. Yet, heading into the P3.5 million event, which fires off today (Tuesday, Oct. 14), both are tempering expectations with a blend of caution, confidence and competitive hunger.

“Comfortable ako sa home course ko kasi madalas ko siyang nilalaro, pero hindi ko siya binabale-wala,” said Mondilla, who delivered a thrilling comeback two years ago with a pair of eagles on Day 1 and three closing birdies in the final round to edge Jaraula by one.

Now gunning to defend his crown, the former Philippine Open champion

It’s an action-packed scene as a blue booter goes for a header.

self by stopping the shot, keeping the game tied. That miss proved costly for the Blue Eagles, as the Fighting Maroons regained the lead just before halftime. Amid a scramble inside the Ateneo

box, Liam Lampayan managed to put the ball into the net in the 45th minute, giving UP a 2-1 advantage heading into the second half. Just past the hour mark, Florenz Tacardon delivered a perfectly timed

pass to an unmarked Rehmat Sidhu, who finished clinically in the 61st minute to give the Fighting Maroons a twogoal cushion.

Blue Eagles captain Dov Cariño then found the net in the 64th minute, pulling one goal back and putting Ateneo within striking distance. Despite this, UP held on to secure the win and three crucial points.

“We executed the plans correctly. Coming from the game, we can go back to training and work on correcting the mistakes that we made. What we want to do is try and improve our game and then try to stay consistent with our next games,” added Clarino.

SBP holds summit to boost women coaching program in PH

THE Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) celebrated the International Day of the Girl Child by hosting the Summit for Women’s Basketball Coaches recently at the 20th Floor, Annex Building of Christ’s Commission Fellowship in Pasig City.

The summit brought together some of the most respected names in basketball to share their insights and inspire the next generation of female coaches.

Among the featured speakers were two-time WNBA Champion and Women’s Basketball Hall of Famer Taj McWilliams-Franklin, who discussed leadership; Australian basketball coach and former player Deanne Butler, who delved into offensive tactics; 11-time PBA Champion coach Norman Black, who shared his expertise on defensive strategies; two-time UAAP Women’s Basketball Champion John Flores, who focused on individual skills development; and former Ateneo Women’s Basketball coach Kat Quimpo, who also tackled techniques for player growth and performance.

The SBP organized the summit to address a key challenge in women’s basketball—the shortage of female coaches. By equipping aspiring mentors with advanced knowledge and professional training, the federation hopes to encourage more women to step into leadership roles and inspire young girls to pursue the sport with confidence and ambition.

Women’s basketball in the Philippines has continued to gain momentum in recent years. The Gilas Pilipinas Women’s teams—from the elite squad to the Under-18 and Under-16 levels— are now competing in Division A of their respective FIBA Asia competitions, a clear reflection of the country’s growing stature in the region.

The Gilas Pilipinas Women’s National Team is also set to compete in March 2026 for a coveted spot in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, marking another major milestone in the sport’s development.

In reaffirming its commitment to elevating women’s basketball, the SBP emphasized that sustained success will require the collective effort of the entire basketball community— coaches, players, schools, parents, and fans alike.

The federation remains steadfast in its mission to develop programs and policies that strengthen the role and influence of female coaches, recognizing that their presence is vital to building a more inclusive, equitable, and inspiring environment for all who love the game.

Meanwhile, Ateneo drops to fourth place with seven points and a +2 goal difference.

Some of the

knows that course knowledge is only part of the equation.

“Iba pa rin ang bawat round. May mga bago kang matututunan,” he added. “Kaya lagi kong sinusubukan na mag-focus, laruin lang ang game ko, at i-respeto ang course.”

While Mondilla takes a methodical approach, Jaraula enters with quiet confidence, eager to flip the script.

“Confident ako kasi familiar na ako sa course and hopefully, magagamit ko ‘yung advantage ko,” said the three-time PGT winner, whose local roots remain a strong motivational anchor.

Both are eager to put on a show at home, especially after contrasting finishes in the previous PGT leg at Marapara – Mondilla rallying late to tie for second and Jaraula settling for a share of 18th.

But even with their intimate knowledge of Del Monte, the field is any-

versed in every inch of the course, he too understands that success now hinges as much on form and mental fortitude as it does on familiarity.

Challenging the homegrown talents is a loaded field that includes red-hot contenders, decorated champions, rising stars and a wave of foreign threats – all with one thing in mind: the title.

Leading the charge is Keanu Jahns, who has strung together an impressive PGT run – winning twice and placing runner-up twice in six starts. Although his three-peat hopes were derailed by Rupert Zaragosa at Marapara, the big-hitting Fil-German remains a prime threat.

“Same as always, take it one shot at a time and stick to my routine,” said Jahns of his game plan. “Del Monte’s tighter layout may favor accuracy more than length, so I’ll adapt accordingly during the practice round.”

Opao Catantan (right) in action. Standing second from right, she proudly wears her bronze medal.

best and brightest minds in Philippine basketball gathered to empower women athletes and coaches.

Clyde Mondilla

Reymon Jaraula

TUESDAY, OCYOBER 14, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Bisera banks on mental game as ICTSI Del Monte begins

WHILE most golfers emphasize sharpening every aspect of their game to strengthen their title bids in premier tournaments, Florence Bisera is choosing a different path – focusing on mental fortitude as she chases another crown.

The ICTSI Del Monte Championship gets underway today (Tuesday, Oct. 14) at the Del Monte Golf Club with Bisera right at the heart of a competitive field composed of proven champions and fierce challengers all aiming to halt her winning run.

“Gusto ko lang i-maintain kung paano ako naglaro nung nanalo ako –ma-control ang emotions, maglaro ng walang pressure at mag-enjoy,” said Bisera, sharing the mindset that has fueled her recent success in the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour.

The rising Davaoeña star has quickly emerged as a formidable force, snatching the LPGT Negros Occidental crown from Korean standout Kim Seoyun before clinching an overseas breakthrough win in Thailand last month. Those back-to-back triumphs have boosted her confidence and sharpened her focus heading into this 54-hole event organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.

“The wins make my confidence high, pero hindi ko pine-pressure sarili ko,” she added. “I expect my approach and strategy to put me in a good position in the next three days.”

NATIONAL University–Nazareth School became the lone undefeated team in the UAAP Season 88 High School Boys’ Volleyball Tournament after outlasting Far Eastern University–Diliman, 23-25, 25-23, 25-23, 18-25, 15-12, at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym on Sunday.

With the crucial win, the Bullpups, last season’s silver medalists, extended their perfect run to five matches, while handing the Baby Tamaraws their first loss of the season after a 4-0 start.

FEU snatched the tight first set as Kenneth Maliwanag delivered a powerful crosscourt spike to secure the win.

The Bullpups regained momentum in the second and third sets, fueled by attacks from Ronnie Millan and Xandrex Ragusta, giving NU a 2-1 lead.

“Well, yung first set kasi namin, hindi namin nagawa yung goal namin. So, niremind ko lang sila na kailangan, kung ano yung ineensayo namin, yun yung gawin namin. Yun naman, nagwork naman,” said NUNS Bullpups head coach Edgar Barroga.

“Pinag-aralan namin bawat isa, kasi knowing FEU, malalaki sila, saka lahat kailangan mong bantayan. Tiningnan namin yung weakness nila, then doon kami nag-go,” he added.

FEU found their rhythm in the fourth set, closing out the frame with a 7-point lead and forcing the match into a decisive fifth set.

The Baby Tamaraws held the lead for most of the final set as Tyler Ramos spearheaded their offense, but Millan tied the score at 11 with a quick attack.

Centeno tops Amit in all-Filipina final to regain World 10-Ball title

By Peter Atencio

CHEZKA Centeno

reaffi rmed her status as one of the world’s premier cue artists after reclaiming the WPA Women’s World 10-Ball Championship title with a thrilling victory over compatriot Rubilen Amit in an allFilipina fi nal on Sunday in Bali, Indonesia.

The 26-year-old Centeno, who first won the crown in 2023, once again reigned supreme after outdueling Amit in a hard-fought showdown that ended with a scoreline of 4–1, 2–4, 4–2, 3–4, 4–2.

A costly miscue by Amit in the last rack of the fifth and deciding set opened the door for Centeno, who calmly cleared the table to seal the championship—and the $50,000 top prize that came with it.

“It was a tough match. Rubilen is a great player. I’m just lucky,” said Centeno, who humbly paid tribute to her veteran opponent after the win.

This triumph marks Centeno’s second world title in three years and cements her place among the Philippines’ greatest female pool players. The victory also represents the

Cruz, Roda rule PCSO Charity Run 2025

JAMES Kevin Cruz and Jessa Mae

Roda topped the PCSO Charity Run 2025 on Sunday at Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati City.

Cruz was the fastest man in the 21K race with his time of 1:17:50, followed by Richille Estampador (1:18:00) and Moiselle Angelo Alforque (1:24:02); while Roda clocked at 1:28:01 to win the women’s division, edging out Maricar Camacho (1:28:52) and Niche Ann Barcena (1:30:55).

The race, organized by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) in partnership with RUNRIO, and has Ayala Land, Inc. and Make It Makati as venue partners championed the cause to unite communities in support of Philippine charities and foundations.

“We hope that we continue to advocate events like these as we all know the noble and selfless intentions that the PCSO has in helping those in need,” said PCSO general manager Melquiades A. Robles who participated in the 5K race of this event which also has Olympic Village and Decathlon Pasig as redemption partners, Cristalino Spring as hydration partner, ION+ Electrolyte Drink as

electrolyte partner, and GU Energy PH as energy gel partner. True to PCSO’s purpose, proceeds from the run will benefit its partner agencies Christian Mission Philippines, Inc., Buklod-

Unlad Ng Batangas, Inc., Little Sisters of the Abandoned Elderly, Inc., White Cross, Inc., Tahanan ng Pagmamahal Children’s Home Inc., SOS Children’s Village Lipa, Inc., Cottolengo Filipino, Inc.,

Our Lady of Sorrows Foundation, Inc., Lingap-Pangarap ng mga Paslit Center, Inc., and Self Help Approach and Rights-Based Environment, Inc.

In the 10K race, James Daniel Orduña, Welfred Jack Labrador, and Jevie Rebultazo took the top three spots in the men’s category, while Edna Magtubo, Reveilyn Aquino, and Camille Santos led the women’s field.

The 5K race also saw Mark Anthony Oximar, Merck Jounes Tribo and Reynor John Rivera place in the top three of the males, while Princess Sambog, Klarisse Odiame, and Bernadette Galang made the podium for females.

Meanwhile, in the 3K division, Ronel Arenas, John Chavez, and Judiel Malanay ruled the men’s ranks, while Tracy Kate Calupig, Jasmine Malabanang, and Kyla Joyce Roy led the female runners.

The PCSO Charity Run 2025 has Unilab, Giggles Cooling Wipes, Leslie’s Snacks, Farmer John Premium Potato Chips, Nacho Corn Chips, Clover, Nike by Park Access and REV*, Fitbar, Diabetasol, Salonpas, Mood Food, DailyFix, Lubie, Chlorelief, Hello, Chippy, Mang Juan, Cloud 9, and Ascend Therapy and Wellness Center as sponsors.

Pamplona delivers as UST edges closer to UAAP HS Boys’ Chess title

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas moved just one match point away from clinching the UAAP Season 88 High School Boys’ Chess title after holding defending champion Far Eastern University–Diliman to a 2–2 draw, Sunday at the Adamson Gym.

The España-based squad had earlier defeated Ateneo de Manila University, 3.5–0.5, in Round 7 before facing the Baby Tamaraws, improving its tally to 13 match points built on six wins and one draw.

The Junior Male Woodpushers now need just a draw in their final match to dethrone the reigning champions.

“Actually yung inaasahan pa nga namin na manalo, yung Board 4 namin, yun pa yung natalo. Pero malaki din naman tiwala namin dun sa tatlo. Good na rin na 2–2 (kami sa FEU). Last game namin yung La Salle, kahit maka 2–2 lang kami champion na,” shared UST coach Ronald Dableo. Against the second-running Baby Tamaraws, rookie King Lanz Pamplona (2.5/5) delivered UST’s lone win on Board 2 after forcing Arena Candidate Master Joemel Narzabal (2.5/5) to resign by the 38th move following an unstoppable mating attack.

Arena International Master Gabriel Paradero (5/7) and John Borce (4/5) then split the points with FEU-D’s Gladimir Romero (4.5/6) and King Beltran (3.5/5) on Boards 1 and 3, respectively, while Jian Carlo Rivera (4.5/6) suffered UST’s lone loss after bowing to Lance Orlina in a 60-move rook endgame on Board 4. In the girls’ division, National University Nazareth School recorded mixed results in Rounds 7 and 8 but held on to the top spot, inching closer to reclaiming the championship trophy it last won in Season 82.

The Jhocson-based squad asserted its mastery over defending champion FEU-D in Round 7, 2.5–1.5, but faltered at the hands of Adamson University, 3–1, in Round 8.

NUNS standout Sarah Dalagan (6.5/8), who opened the season with six straight wins, fell to Woman FIDE Master Ruelle Canino (7/8) before bouncing back with a draw against Florence Isabedra (2.5/7) on the top board.

Arena FIDE Master Yaneah Morada (5/6) remained a pillar of consistency for the Junior Lady Bulldogs, staying unbeaten in six matches with consecutive draws in Rounds 7 and 8.

Meanwhile, UST continued its late-season surge in the girls’ division with a hard-fought 2.5–1.5 win over FEU-D, who now sit third with 10 match points.

The victory followed a 4–0 demolition of De La Salle Zobel in the previous round, lifting UST to 12 match points heading into the final two rounds.

Trina Temple (5/6) and Iana Sotaridona (4.5/6) set the tone for the Junior Female Woodpushers, each scoring two crucial points in that stretch.

Adamson University also moved within a match win of securing a podium finish in the boys’ division after dominating De La Salle Zobel, 3–1, in Round 7.

Chezka Centeno’s triumph adds another golden chapter to Philippine billiards.

fourth time a Filipina has won the World 10-Ball crown, further highlighting the nation’s dominance in women’s cue sports.

Centeno now joins Amit as a twotime champion of the prestigious tournament. Amit captured the inaugural title in 2009 and reclaimed it

in 2013, while Centeno’s victories in 2023 and 2025 make her the only other player in event history to achieve the same feat.

Yvonne Bisera is coming o back-to-back triumphs as she heads into the Philippine Golf Tournaments-organized event.

PCSO general manager Melquiades Robles (right) awards medals to the winners.

Rookie King Lanz Pamplona saves the day UST.

Industry group supports BOC’s bold anti-smuggling reforms

By Othel V. Campos

THE Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) expressed strong support for sweeping reforms implemented by the Bureau of Customs (BOC), saying the measures could finally deliver President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s promise to end the reign of smugglers in the country.

FPI chairman emeritus Jesus Arranza said the reforms, which include a push for full digitalization, are “bold and systemic changes” that could turn the BOC “from one of the most corrupt to one of the most reformed.”

“These reforms will help restore the credibility of the Bureau of Customs. We in the FPI, who have long been victims of smuggling, feel

Weaker peso lifted October power rates, says Meralco

By Alena Mae S. Flores

POWER retailer Manila Electric

Co. (Meralco) on Monday announced an increase of P0.2331 per kilowatt-hour for October 2025 on the back of higher generation charges due to the peso depreciation.

This brings the overall rate for a typical household to P13.3182 per kWh this month from P13.0851 per kWh.

Meralco spokesperson Joe Zaldarriaga said residential customers consuming an average of 200 kWh would see an additional P47 in their monthly electricity bill.

Zaldarriaga said the October generation charge went up by P0.1903 per kW, largely due to the depreciation of the peso against the US dollar. The peso depreciated to 58.13 against the greenback at the end of September from 57.13 in the previous month.

Charges from Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and power supply agreements (PSAs) increased by P0.3622 and P0.3567 per kWh, respectively. This was primarily due to the depreciation of the local currency against the greenback, which affected 99 percent and 48 percent of their respective costs.

The increase was tempered by lower charges from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), the trading floor of electricity, which went down by P2.0688 per kWh due to a decrease of about 1,000 megawatts in Luzon’s peak demand.

IPPs, PSAs and WESM accounted for 21 percent, 74 percent and 5 percent, respectively, of Meralco’s total energy requirement for the period. Transmission, taxes and other charges also registered a total increase of P0.0428 per kWh. Pass-through charges for generation and transmission are paid by Meralco to the power suppliers and the grid operator, respectively. Taxes, universal charges and the Feedin Tariff Allowance are all remitted to the government.

their impact firsthand, and we will be the first to commend genuine reform efforts,” said Arranza.

He said Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno’s agenda center on the full digitalization of customs processes to remove face-to-face transactions between importers and BOC personnel. Implemented through a PublicPrivate Partnership (PPP) model,

the modernization will automate import documentation, inspection tracking, and valuation—eliminating opportunities for collusion, bribery and technical smuggling.

Nepomuceno issued a memorandum barring all Customs officials and employees from holding any business or financial interest in customs brokerage operations. All BOC personnel should also disclose relatives up to the fourth degree involved in brokerage businesses.

“This is part of our commitment to good governance and transparency. There should be no conflict of interest in Customs service,” Nepomuceno said.

Nepomuceno also ordered the suspension and review of all unserved letters of authority and mission orders issued before July 2, 2025, to ensure they are legally sound and properly documented.

Boracay, Palawan, Siargao among Asia’s top 10 islands—US magazine

BORACAY, Palawan and Siargao in the Philippines were named among the Top 10 Islands in Asia in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards by US-based luxury and lifestyle magazine Condé Nast Traveler (CNT).

Boracay ranked fourth in the latest results with 90.54 points, followed by Palawan in fifth place with 90.23 and Siargao in seventh with 85.49. The annual survey drew votes from more than 700,000 travelers worldwide.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomed the recognition, with Secretary Christina Frasco calling the distinction “a living testament to the beauty, resilience, and stewardship of our island communities.”

“To see Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao once again among Asia’s top islands reaffirms our commitment to preserving their natural wonders, advancing sustainable tourism, and ensuring that the prosperity these

DA lifts temporary ban on poultry, related imports from New Zealand

THE Philippines has lifted its temporary ban on the importation of domesticated and wild birds, including poultry and related products, from New Zealand which recently resolved recent cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said he authorized the resumption of imports such as poultry meat, day-old chicks, table eggs and poultry semen used for artificial insemination, under Memorandum Order No. 62.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) imposed the ban in January following reports of avian influenza outbreaks in New Zealand.

Tiu Laurel cited official reports submitted by New Zealand authorities to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), confirming that all HPAI cases had been contained and that no new outbreaks had occurred.

The memorandum noted that, based on the DA’s assessment through the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), the risk of contamination from imported poultry products is now considered negligible.

“Import transactions for the specified commodities, slaughtered or produced after the issuance of this order, may resume in accordance with existing DA rules and regulations,” Tiu Laurel said. Othel V. Campos

destinations bring reaches every Filipino,” she said.

The islands joined other top Asian destinations on CNT’s list, including Phú Quốc, Vietnam; Langkawi, Malaysia; Koh Samui, Thailand; Bali, Indonesia; Andaman Islands, India; Phuket, Thailand; and Phi Phi Islands, Thailand.

In 2024, the Philippines had four islands—Boracay, Palawan, Cebu and

Siargao—listed among Asia’s Top 10, making it the ASEAN country with the most entries that year.

The country has also been consistently recognized by the World Travel Awards (WTA) as Asia’s Leading Beach Destination and Asia’s Leading Dive Destination. Frasco invited travelers to help protect the islands “by practicing responsible tourism and supporting local communities.” Othel V. Campos

By Jenniffer B.

PSEi nudges higher despite overseas worries

By Jenniffer B. Austria

LACKLUSTER trading

persisted in the local bourse on Monday as hopes of further monetary easing were tempered by negative developments overseas.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) inched up 14.54 points, or 0.24 percent to close at 6,052.33. The broader all-shares index, however, declined 2.85 points, or 0.08 percent to 3,655.59.

The peso depreciated slightly to 58.245 versus the U.S. dollar on Monday from 58.24 on Friday.

“The PSEi opened the week in positive territory despite persistent trade uncertainties between the U.S. and China that weighed on global markets,” said Luis Limlingan, head of sales for Regina Capital Development Corp.

“The index’s resilience was likely driven by bargain hunting, while investor sentiment was further lifted by the appreciation of the peso against the dollar,” he added.

Only two of six indices ended with gains. Mining and oil surged 2.29 percent while services advanced

2.01 percent.

Industrial dropped 1.22 percent, followed by prop erty, which went down 0.43 percent. Holding firms and financials also declined 0.20 percent and 0.11 percent, respectively.

Investors also continued to stay on the sidelines as value turnover remained thin at P4.38 billion.

Market breadth was negative as the index closed with 121 decliners versus 76 gainers while 52 stocks closed unchanged.

Asian markets slipped Monday after US President Donald Trump reignited his trade war with Beijing by threatening last week to impose 100 percent tariffs on goods from China.

However, the losses were tempered slightly by a more conciliatory tone on Sunday when Trump de scribed Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping as “respected”.

Trump wrote on social media Friday that he would impose an additional 100 percent tariff on China and threatened to cancel a summit with Xi, citing Beijing’s export curbs on rare earth minerals used in a range of goods including smartphones, electric vehicles and military hardware.

The extra US levies, plus export controls on “any and all critical software” would come into effect from November 1 in retaliation for what he called Beijing’s “extraordinarily aggressive” moves. With AFP

Flood projects scandal: The guardrails were not functioning

WHEN disasters or scandals happen, one of the first words that come to a person’s mind is the word ‘guardrails’. The current flood-control projects scandal is no exception: guardrails were once of the first words that come to my mind. Guardrails are man-made mechanisms that are put in place to prevent the occurrence, or at the very least mitigate the impact, of disasters. Scandals or other adverse happenings. The essence of guardrails is prevention; when they fail to perform their prevention function, whether through intentional criminal action or through criminal negligence, bad things happen.

In the current flood-control projects scandal the guardrails were expected to protect the nation from the depredations of a humungous combination of malign institutions consisting of Congress, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the group of contractors found by the investigators to have violated the terms of DPWH contracts worth billions of pesos.

The guardrails did not do their job. They didn’t function as they should have. And so all the bad things happened.

The most important of the nonfunctioning guardrails was the Budget department headed by Secretary Amenah Pangandaman. The facts suggest that where the DPWH has been concerned the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has shown little interest in evaluation and review. If it were possible to charge the DBM in the present scandal, the charges would include (1) culpable failure to ascertain why so many flood control projects were being awarded to companies with more or less the same ownership, and (2) culpable failure to determine the contractors’ financial capability to undertake all the projects covered by their DPWH contracts. Indeed, with the seemingly free flow of flood control funds from DBM to DPWH, it is tempting to propose the merger of the two departments into the Department of Budget, Management, Public Works and Highways.

Another major non-functioning guardrail was the Commission on Audit (COA). Truth to tell, COA, a Constitutional body, has taken a big hit in the flood control scandal – a hit which it may take a long time to recover from. The government audit institution clearly has a problem when COA auditors in the field can no longer be relied upon to render truthful reports on infrastructure projects.

Another non-functioning guardrail was the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC). It took the Parisbased Financial Action Task Force (FATF) a long time to take the Philippines off its grey list of suspected money-laundering countries because the Philippine government was slow to act on FATF’s warning that the casinos were being used as money-laundering conduits. The Filipino people are

The guardrails did not do their job. They didn’t function as they should have. And so all the bad things happened.

wondering why AMLC was not able to learn that DPWH personnel were regular casino patrons who daily lost millions of the Filipino people’s money at the gaming tables of the leading Metro Manila casinos. There are indications that the casinos were used as money-laundering conduits by the DPWH’s gambling addicts. Good AMLC intelligence should have sought to examine those indications. Unfortunately, good AMLC intelligence work was missing.

The final item in this list of guardrails that failed to prevent the worst fiscal scandal in Philippine government’s history is the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) of the Office of the President of the Philippines (OP).

As its name indicates, the function of PMS is management. It is the most important management staff in this country because it manages the office of the nation’s most powerful chief executives – the President of the Philippines. The PMS is the last stop on an official document’s journey to the signature of the President of the Philippines; the presumption is that every document that His Excellency signs has undergone scrutiny by the PMS. Where the proposed General Appropriations Acts (GAAs) of recent years are concerned, it is clear that PMS failed the President – and the nation. It failed to tell the President about the insertions of unprogrammed flood control projects into those documents.

The guardrails against corruption in the government’s spending on infrastructure – must be made to perform their function hereafter. A repetition of the present scandal is unthinkable. (llagasjessa@yahoo.com)

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

The public is informed that pursuant to Memorandum No. 87 dated 11 February 2016 with the subject “Directing the Abolition of the Philippine Veterans Assistance Commission and the Philippine Veterans Investment Development Corporation, and for other purposes” PVAC and PHIVIDEC shall be abolished. Accordingly, the corporations’ respective assets shall be liquidated to settle their respective outstanding liabilities in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations.

All creditors or any interested individual or entity which has a claim against PHIVIDEC may file a Notice of Claim on or before 15 October 2025, addressed to:

Attention: ATTY. SHANNON MAE O.

SM stresses practical sustainability at industry forum

SM INVESTMENTS Corp., the parent company of the SM group, cited its practical approach to sustainability at The Dirty Work of Doing Good, a sustainability conference organized by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Philippines.

Addressing industry leaders, sustainability advocates, and changemakers, Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability Timothy Daniels of SM Investments said that sustainability for SM must be “practical, scalable, and felt by stakeholders, especially the communities we serve,” given the breadth of its core businesses in property, retail, banking, and strategic investments in logistics and

Parañaque’s GDP grew 6.8% to hit P366.44b in 2024

PARAÑAQUE City’s local economy continued its strong performance in 2024, with its gross domestic product (GDP) growing 6.8 percent to P366.44 billion, according to the latest report from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

The growth follows an 8.7-percent expansion in 2023, which made Parañaque the fastest-growing economy among the highly urbanized cities (HUCs) in Metro Manila that year, said PSA-NCR acting supervising statistical specialist Maricel Carangan.

The city’s per capita GDP was estimated at P521,065 for 2024, calculated by dividing the total GDP by the population reflected in the 2024 census.

The services sector remained the primary economic driver, accounting for 78.6 percent of total output and expanding by 7.3 percent, according to city treasurer Dr. Anthony Pulmano. The industry sector grew by 5.1 percent. Transportation and storage led all sectors in growth at 19.0 percent, followed by accommodation and food service activities at 9.9 percent, reflecting the city’s sustained post-pandemic recovery and continued investment confidence, Pulmano said.

Parañaque Mayor Edwin Olivarez lauded the local business community for its resilience and contribution to growth, reaffirming the city government’s commitment to maintaining a business-friendly environment that attracts more investors and creates quality jobs.

renewable energy.

“For us, sustainability has to be practical. It’s not about making easy promises, but about creating shared value. The strategy has to be a win for all our stakeholders, not just the business. The ecosystem must move together for the common good,” Daniels said.

Daniels stressed that disaster resilience is a shared responsibility, noting that the Philippines is among the most climate-vulnerable countries. Since 2005, SM has dedicated 10 percent of its capital expenditures to disaster-resilient and sustainable infrastructure.

SM City Marikina, for example, is built on 246 stilts to withstand river

overflows during typhoon season and has served as a refuge for nearby communities.

Meanwhile, 41 rainwater catchment facilities across SM properties can collectively store 85,400 cubic meters of water, enough to fill more than 34 Olympic-sized pools to help mitigate flooding in surrounding areas.

Daniels also highlighted SM’s focus on inclusive development through its integrated city model, which combines retail, offices, hotels, convention centers and education facilities such as National University (NU) campuses to meet the evolving needs of communities.

South African court affirms ICTSI contract

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE High Court of South Africa has dismissed a legal challenge by APM Terminals BV (APM), reaffirming the award of a 25-year contract to International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) for the development of Durban Container Terminal 2 (DCT2).

The court ruled that Transnet SOC Limited acted within its discretion and complied with the principles of fairness and transparency in awarding the contract.

It also held that the solvency ratio was not the sole measure of financial qualification and that ICTSI’s financial strength was appropriately validated. The court said it also found that APM’s legal challenge was brought with undue delay.

ICTSI welcomed the court’s ruling and reaffirmed its commitment to delivering long-term value and operational excellence at the DCT2 in close partnership with Transnet.

The company earlier reported a net income of $483.84 million in the first half of 2025, up 15 percent from $420.55 million in the same period last year.

Excluding the income from the settlement of legal claims at ICTSI Oregon

DOE issues rules for carbon credit generation, monitoring

THE Department of Energy (DOE)

has issued a circular providing guidelines for the generation, management and monitoring of Carbon Credit Certificates (CCCs) in the energy sector, a move it called a “game-changer” for the country’s climate mitigation efforts.

Department Circular No. DC 2025-09-0018, signed by Secretary Sharon Garin on Sept. 23, 2025, aims to help energy stakeholders reduce operational costs, comply with regulations and access incentives by leveraging CCCs.

A CCC is a tradeable certificate representing one ton of carbon dioxide equivalent of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduced or removed from the atmosphere through a mitigation activity that is real, additional and

PALECO, Vivant Energy unit sign 15-year power deal for Palawan

By Alena Mae S. Flores

PALAWAN Electric Cooperative (PALECO) and Delta P, Inc. (DPI), a subsidiary of Vivant Energy Corp., have advanced from their transition power supply agreement (TPSA) to a 15-year power supply agreement (PSA), which they initially signed in 2024. The 40-megawatt PSA is a major step in delivering long-term, reliable power for Puerto Princesa and underscores PALECO’s commitment to address long-standing challenges in mainland Palawan.

The agreement is expected to ensure a reliable power supply and reduce electricity costs for PALECO’s

member-consumer-owners (MCOs) in partnership with Vivant Energy, a Cebu-based company focused on rural and off-grid energization.

The transition marks the start of a phased delivery under the PSA, paving the way for more stable power in the province. This shift is expected to further reduce the electricity rates paid by PALECO’s MCOs as DPI will only recover the subsidized approved generation rate (SAGR) from PALECO.

Following the recent approval by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) of PALECO and DPI’s transitory PSA, implemented from October 2024 to 2025, MCOs are expected to receive refunds from its implementation.

verified by accredited independent third-party entities.

Under the circular, eligible mitigation activities include voluntary early retirement of coalfired power plants, renewable energy development, energy efficiency improvements, emerging zero- and low-carbon energy technologies and the switch to electric vehicles.

“Only projects that are supported by a recognized carbon crediting standard and a corresponding methodology shall be eligible for the generation of CCCs,” the circular said.

“This carbon credit policy is a game-changer for the Philippine energy sector,” DOE Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella said earlier.

“It will equip our energy sector

with the tools to generate and manage carbon credits with integrity, ensuring every ton of reduced carbon dioxide is real and verifiable,” he said.

The policy is designed to align with the Philippines’ commitments under the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature increase and ensure environmental integrity.

CCCs will be referred to as Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs) when authorized for transfer to another country under Article six of the Paris Agreement.

The DOE’s policy follows a memorandum of understanding signed between the Philippines and Singapore in August 2024 to collaborate on carbon credits under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Alena Mae S. Flores

and the impact of the deconsolidation of PT PBM Olah Jasa Andal (OJA), Jakarta, Indonesia in the first half of 2024, net income attributable to equity holders would have grown 20 percent. ICTSI’s net income amounted to $244.31 million in the second quarter, up 16 percent from $210.67 million in the same period last year.

Revenue from port operations amounted to $1.51 billion in the first half of 2025, an increase of 14 percent from the $1.32 billion reported for the same period in 2024.

It said that for the quarter ended June 30, revenue from port operations increased 12 percent from $684.02 million to $764.63 million.

ICTSI handled consolidated volume of 6,989,075 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in the first half of 2025, or 11 percent higher than the 6,312,163 TEUs handled in the same period in 2024.

IN BRIEF

Timothy Daniels, consultant and head of investor relations and sustainability at SM Investments Corp., discusses SM’s sustainability initiatives that create meaningful impact in the communities.

ASIALINK-CARMUDI DEAL. Asialink Finance Corp. (AFC), one of the country’s

renews

partnership with Carmudi Philippines, a leading automotive marketplace in the country. AFC is reinforcing its collaborative efforts to expand and streamline auto financing and vehicle marketplace services nationwide. Signing the agreement are (from left) Eleanor Yap, chief operation officer of Asialink Finance Corp.; Samuel Cariño, president and chief executive officer of Asialink Finance Corp.; Ramjit Lahiri, CEO of Classifieds for Carmudi Philippines; and Thomas Mathai, CEO of Used Car Finance for Carmudi Philippines.

Palawan Electric Cooperative (PALECO) and Delta P Inc. (DPI), a subsidiary of Vivant Energy

Contrivida (left) and Delta P president Erickson Omamalin.

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

Shift to renewable energy accelerating—UN

Coca-Cola rolls out 1st electric truck to power sustainable logistics

STA. ROSA, Laguna―Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP), the official bottling partner and distributor of Coca-Cola products in the country, has officially launched its first fully electric truck.

The milestone marks a significant step in the company’s journey toward cleaner, more sustainable logistics and environmental stewardship.

The electric truck is stationed at CCEAP’s Sta. Rosa Plant in Laguna and will serve delivery routes in and around the area on a significantly reduced carbon footprint.

The zero-emission tractor-trailer, developed by BYD Cars Philippines, is supported by an on-site charging station to ensure efficient operations. Powered by a 355 kWh battery and a range of up to 200 kilometers, the fully electric truck enables an estimated annual avoid-

PH and Korea in partnership to overcome climate woes

THE Philippines and South Korea recently signed a memorandum of Understanding for the Clean Air for Sustainable ASEAN (CASA) Cooperation Project for implementation from 2025 to 2026.

Signing the agreement in Pasay City were Assistant Secretary for Environment and concurrent director of the Department of Environment and Natutral Resources’ Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Jacqueline A. Caancan and the Principal Investigator of CASA and Seoul National University (SNU) Graduate School of Public Health professor Kiyoung Lee.

The CASA Project is an initiative funded by the ASEAN–Republic of Korea Cooperation Fund and launched in January 2023.

The project aims to empower member states of the Association of Southeast Nations with the tools and expertise to build robust air quality management systems by providing both advanced equipment and capacity-building programs.

“By bringing together scientific research and international teamwork, the CASA Project, a partnership between the EMB and Seoul National University, will create better data and monitoring systems, laying the groundwork for smarter, evidencebased policies,” Caancan said.

Underscoring the importance of collaboration in addressing transboundary air quality concern, Caancan said the historic agreement brings the Philippines and South Korea closer to a common goal of cleaner air, healthier communities and stronger communities that can withstand the current environmental challenges.

“This partnership strengthens our nations’ bonds and represents a shared dedication to environmental protection, making a meaningful contribution to regional sustainability efforts across the ASEAN Region,” she said. DENR News

ance of 54,000 kg of CO₂ emissions compared to a diesel truck.

“At CCEAP, we remain committed to delivering our refreshing beverages to more people, in a more sustainable and energy-efficient way,” said Gareth McGeown, chief executive officer of Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines.

“We always grow our business the right way as we contribute to a cleaner future for the communities

we serve. All our 18 manufacturing plants employ clean energy initiatives and world-class technologies to ensure that every product that reaches our customers is made with the highest sustainability and quality standards,” he said.

CCEAP operates one of the largest truck fleets in the country, with over 3,500 trucks and more than 2,000 sales service vehicles, delivering Coca-Cola’s iconic beverages to over

1 million micro-retailers and about 6,000 key customers nationwide.

“We recognize the critical role that our logistics operations play in supporting all our customers and achieving an even more sustainable supply chain for our business,” said Frank Garcia, Supply Chain vice president of CCEAP. “As we launch our first electric truck, we continue to drive our long-term strategy of incorporating clean energy into our operations through smart mobility initiatives.”

This commitment to sustainability through environmentally friendly logistics aligns with parent company Coca-Cola Europacific Partners’ (CCEP) global commitment to decarbonize its business.

CCEP’s climate targets, validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), include reducing absolute greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2030 (vs. 2019) and achieving net zero emissions by 2040.

Epson Philippines initiates recycling to reduce wastes

EPSON Philippines Corp. (EPC) is turning global sustainability commitments into real-world benefits for local communities through everyday actions that make a difference, according to the Epson Southeast Asia Sustainability Report released recently.

The company’s Corporate Waste Collection Program stands out as a practical example of sustainability in action. By collecting used ink cartridges, bottles, and packaging materials from customers, Epson transforms these materials into useful items like school chairs, tables, bricks, lamps and waste bins. This approach keeps waste out of landfills while creating resources that directly benefit Philippine schools and communities.

“For us in Epson Philippines, sustainability is something we practice step by step,” said Masako Kusama, president and director of Epson Philippines Corp.

“We start in our own offices, we include our employees, and we work with our customers. When we collect used cartridges or reduce

plastic in our daily work, it may look small, but it makes a difference. If we all continue, together it becomes something bigger for the community and for the environment,” he said.

The localized efforts support Epson’s goal to become carbonnegative and underground-resource

free by 2050. Internally, EPC has improved waste sorting practices and partnered with vendors who properly handle recyclable materials. Employees receive regular training to understand how their everyday actions help reach these goals.

WITH clean energy on the rise, the United Nations Secretary-General renewed his longstanding call for countries to make the transition from fossil fuels that cause global warming.

The latest push follows the release of two reports last week which affirmed that the socalled “renewables revolution” is accelerating at unprecedented rates. For the first time ever, renewable energy has generated more power than coal, according to new analysis by Ember, a global think tank working to speed up the clean energy transition. Energy shift underway Solar and wind outpaced the growth in global electricity demand in the first half of this year, resulting in a small decline in coal and gas when compared to the same period in 2024.

This represents “a crucial turning point,” according to Ember’s senior electricity analyst, Małgorzata Wiatros-Motyka.

“Solar and wind are now growing fast enough to meet the world’s growing appetite for electricity. This marks the beginning of a shift where clean power is keeping pace with demand growth,” she said in a press release.

In a separate report, the International Energy Agency (IEA) revealed how installed renewables power continues to grow and is expected to double by 2030.

Global renewable power capacity is projected to increase by 4,600 gigawatts (GW)―“roughly the equivalent of adding China, the European Union and Japan’s total power generation capacity combined,” the agency said.

Growth is being led by the rapid rise of solar PV (photovoltaic) technology, which converts sunlight into energy. It will account for around 80 percent of the increase, followed by wind, hydro, bioenergy and geothermal.

In response to the news, UN Secretary-General António Guterres tweeted that “the clean energy future is no longer a distant promise―it’s here.” He urged the international community to “seize this historic opportunity and supercharge the global shift towards a better future for all.”

The reports echo the findings of the Secretary-General’s Moment of Opportunity report, issued in July. They also reflect messages by world leaders attending his Climate Summit held last month during highlevel week as part of the lead-up to the COP30 conference in Brazil this November.

However, the UN chief has consistently stressed that while progress has been made, the energy transition is not yet fast or fair enough. Therefore, efforts need to be stepped up if the world is to meet the goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels, as outlined in the Paris Agreement on climate change. UN News

Young beekeepers in Türkiye are turning hives into jobs and futures

First of 3 parts

EACH morning, 22-year-old Züleyha Ceylan drives her small blue truck down the winding village roads, past fields of hazelnut trees, to a patch of colorful beehives in the province of Düzce, some 200 kilometers northwest of Ankara, Türkiye.

She slips into her canary-yellow beekeeping suit, pulls on pink gloves and strikes a match. A curl of smoke drifts from her tin smoker, calming the bees before she lifts the lid of the first hive. Inside, the colony hums with life. She studies the frames for honey levels, checks for the queen’s presence and scans for any sign of disease —tasks that require patience, skill and careful observation. Some inspections take just a few minutes; others stretch into half an hour or more—every hive has a life of its own.

“Since I was a child, I loved being outdoors with animals and nature,” she says, pausing to listen to the buzzing. “I couldn’t imagine myself stuck in an office job in the city. When I hear the sound of the bees, it feels like therapy. Their buzzing calms me and gives me energy for the day.”

When Züleyha began beekeeping last year, some people in her community doubted her choice. “They told me it is a man’s job,” she recalls with a grin. “It was like saying a woman cannot drive a car. Now those same people come to me for advice about their bees.”

Although no one in her family had ever been involved in beekeeping, they always believed in Züleyha’s choice. Even while allergic to bees, her father still helped her to buy her first colonies and equipment. “My parents told me, ‘Do what you love,’ and supported me all the way,” she says. “That gave me the courage to move forward.”

A way forward

Though the province of Düzce is rich in farmland and forests, more than 32 percent of youth between the age of 15 and 24 are unemployed. Many opt to move to the city in search of work, leaving behind old farms and empty villages.

Beekeeping offers an alternative path: it requires little land and relatively modest investment while offering flexible hours. Furthermore, demand for honey and related products remains strong. In Düzce, the prized local Yığılca bee, known for its resilience and ability to produce high-quality honey, makes the sector’s outlook even brighter. For Züleyha, who chose to stay in her village, bees have meant both livelihood and independence. (To be continued) FAO News

Increasing investments in solar, wind power, hydropower and biomass will be essential to reducing global reliance on coal and oil. UNDP Georgia

The first fully-electric truck of Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines underscores the company’s long-term clean energy strategy in bringing refreshing beverages to Filipinos.

In Düzce, Türkiye, 32 percent of youth are unemployed. Many opt to move to the city in search of work. Beekeeping offers young people an alternative path and income opportunities in rural areas. FAO/Turuhan Alkır

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Very Wang Nickie Wang

WHEN asked if he would ever want to be president, Jericho Rosales didn’t give the usual answer. Instead, he spoke from the kind of sincerity you don’t often hear in politics.

SHOWBIZ

Rosales compared corruption to “a pit bull—a byproduct of greed and decay,” something that can’t be solved by one person alone.

“We all have to take responsibility. That’s why we called it I Am Philippines,” he said, referring to the film’s message of collective accountability.

As Quezon prepares for its nationwide release on Oct. 15, TBA Studios positions it as both a cinematic event and an educational tool. The film concludes the studio’s “Bayaniverse” trilogy after Heneral Luna and Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral , and it aims to reignite interest

“What we truly wish for,” he said, “is a leader with a genuine heart — the heart of a true president.”

Quezon features an all-star ensemble including Benjamin Alves, Mon Confiado, Arron Villaflor, Cris Villanueva, Romnick Sarmenta, Karylle, JC Santos, Jake Macapagal, Bodjie Pascua, Angeli Bayani, Jojit Lorenzo, Joross Gamboa, Therese Malvar, Ana Abad Santos, Ketchup Eusebio, and Nico Locco. International actor Iain Glen, best known for his role in Game of Thrones, plays U.S. GovernorGeneral Leonard Wood

The movie, which had a successful red carpet premiere on Oct. 12 at SM Cinemas in The Block, SM North EDSA, Quezon City, is produced by Daphne O. Chiu-Soon with the support of TBA Studios Chairman Emeritus Fernando Ortigas and TBA Studios CEO E. A. Rocha

Why Jericho Rosales wouldn’t want to dip his toes into politics

“I never graduated. I never even went to college,” he said during the media conference for Quezon at The Manila Hotel. “But what I learned from life, from art, is that everything can be studied. What you can’t fake is care.” Rosales, who portrays Manuel L. Quezon in the upcoming historical biopic directed by Jerrold Tarog, said that playing the former president gave him a deeper understanding of what leadership should mean. “If care and service aren’t in your heart, then nothing will happen, not even on a personal level, much less for an entire country.”

It’s a rare moment to hear an actor speak about leadership in such a grounded way. While he admitted that the thought of being president is “no joke,” his words cut to the core of what many Filipinos have long wished for, a leader with a genuine heart.

The conversation turned reflective when Rosales recalled joining a free walking tour years ago. “At the end, the guide said something that stayed with me: ‘We just need leaders who genuinely care.’ That’s all we need,” he said.

Playing Quezon also forced him to look back at how much he didn’t care about history when he was younger.

“I used to fall asleep in history class,” he admitted, “because I didn’t care about the country.” But through the film, he said he rediscovered what it means to love the Philippines—to care

enough to understand its past and how it shaped the present.

That rediscovery, he said, is the key to solving corruption.

“It’s care that makes you move. You love your family and your friends. You do things for them because you care. It’s the same with the country,” the 46-year-old actor related.

Jisoo, Zayn team up for new single ‘Eyes Closed’

SOUTH Korean singer and actress Jisoo and British pop star Zayn joined forces for a new single titled “Eyes Closed,” released under Warner Records. The duet blends pop and R&B elements as it explores the excitement and uncertainty of falling in love. Jisoo and Zayn trade verses over atmospheric production featuring acoustic guitar, bass synth, and warm keys. “Eyes Closed” marks the first collaboration between the Blackpink member and the former One Direction singer. The release comes as Jisoo continues performing on Blackpink’s Deadline

in Philippine history among students and educators.

The film is a recipient of the CreatePHFilms incentive from the Film Development Council of the Philippines.

After opening in Philippine theaters on Oct. 15, Quezon will make its international premiere at the 45th Hawai’i International Film Festival on Oct. 26 at the Consolidated Kahala Theater and on Oct. 28 at the Consolidated Kapolei Theater. Quezon will also have screenings in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East this October.

For Rosales, however, the bigger lesson goes beyond the screen. Portraying the country’s second president reminded him—and perhaps all of us—that leadership begins with empathy.

Zayn, whose debut solo album Mind of Mine made him the first U.K. male artist to debut at No. 1 on both the U.K. and U.S. charts,

Jericho Rosales (left) and Romnick Sarmenta in a scene from the much-awaited historical biopic

Romnick Sarmenta, Jake Macapagal, Karylle Tatlonghari, and Jericho Rosales on the set of ‘Quezon’

SHOWBIZ

‘Bloom Where

You Are Planted’ is Cinemalaya 21’s best f ilm

By Jasper Valdez

THE 21st Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival ended with a bold statement on the power of truth-telling through documentary film, as Bloom Where You Are Planted took home the coveted Balanghai trophy for Best Film.

Directed by Noni Abao, the documentary follows land rights activists in Cagayan Valley and was recognized for its “deeply humane portrayal of political activists uprooted by violence yet steadfast in their pursuit of justice and belonging.” The film was praised for turning the struggle for land, peace, and dignity into “a meditation on home, hope, and resilience.”

Cinemalaya’s top short film honor went to Carl Joseph Papa’s The Next 24 Hours, which impressed jurors with its “hauntingly tender portrayal of trauma and survival” using rotoscope animation.

The Best Director awards went to Sari Dalena for Cinemartyrs and Elian Idioma for I’m Best Left Inside My Head. Dalena was honored for her “bold and visionary

authorship that fuses cinema, history, and haunting memory,” while Idioma earned recognition for his film’s “emotional precision and psychological depth.”

Child No. 82 bagged Best Screenplay for a full-length feature, with writers Tim Rone Villanueva and Herlyn Alegre commended for their poignant writing. In the short film category, Handiong Kapuno’s Figat was cited for its “authenticity, lyrical storytelling, and cultural depth.”

The NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asia Pacific Cinema) Award for Best Full-Length Film went to Renei Dimla’s Republika ng Pipolipinas for its story on resistance and belonging, while Hasang by Daniel De La Cruz took home the short film NETPAC prize for its “poetic

storytelling and visual simplicity.”

Acting honors were dominated by Habang Nilalamon ng Hydra ang Kasaysayan Jojit Lorenzo won Best Actor for his portrayal of a political strategist “confronting moral exhaustion in a nation consumed by lies,” while Mylene Dizon was named Best Actress for her role as a daughter haunted by her father’s dark past.

Tanghalang Pilipino’s Nanding Josef earned Best Supporting Actor for his chilling turn as a Martial Law general battling dementia.

Rochelle Pangilinan received Best Supporting Actress for Child No. 82, praised for her “restrained yet searing portrayal of a mother holding on to her dignity amid abandonment and illusion.”

Among the technical awards, Bloom Where You Are Planted also won Best Editing, while Raging took Best Cinematography and Best Sound. Cinemartyrs won Best Musical Scoring, and Padamlágan earned Best Production Design.

The Best Ensemble Performance went to the cast of Open Endings, starring Jasmine CurtisSmith, Janella Salvador, Klea Pineda, and Leanne Mamonong, cited for their “emotional depth and seamless chemistry.”

Special Jury Prizes were awarded to Cinemartyrs by Dalena and Kay Basta Angkarabo Yay Bagay Ibat Ha Langit (Objects Do Not Randomly Fall from the Sky) by Maria Estela Paiso for their fearless and poetic storytelling.

Audience Choice honors went to Child No. 82 for full-length and Ascension from the Office Cubicle by Hannah Silvestre for short film.

TRON: Ares, the latest installment in Disney’s sci-fi franchise, debuted atop the North American box office, industry estimates showed Sunday, but analysts said its $33.5 million haul was disappointing given its huge budget.

Tron: Ares, which stars Jared Leto, Greta Lee, and Evan Peters, tells of mankind’s first encounter with artificial intelligence in the real world. Experts and industry press said it cost $180 million to make. In second place, with $8 million, was another new film, Roofman, starring Channing Tatum in the real-life tale of a former soldier-turned-thief who breaks out of prison and finds himself hiding out in a toy store. Kirsten Dunst co-stars in the Paramount movie.

In third place, with $6.7 million in ticket sales, was Paul Thomas Anderson’s action thriller One Battle After Another, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Sean Penn, who are generating early Oscars buzz. DiCaprio plays a washed-up far-left

revolutionary who is dragged back into action to help his daughter, while Penn portrays his ruthless military nemesis. The film, loosely based on Thomas Pynchon’s novel Vineland, also stars Benicio del Toro, Teyana Taylor, and Regina Hall Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie, a live-action/ animation hybrid based on the popular Netflix children’s series, stayed put in fourth place with $3.4 million in the United States and Canada. In fifth place was Soul on Fire, based on the true story of a man who survived a childhood accident that left him with severe burns over nearly all of his body and

This year’s Cinemalaya, held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines and Ayala Malls, once again celebrated the strength of independent Filipino cinema—and proved that truth, when told with heart, remains the most powerful story of all.

HEAVEN Peralejo still finds it surreal to be paired with Alden Richards in Out of Order , now streaming on Netflix.

“I didn’t expect that I would land the role,” she said. “I even asked them if they were sure about choosing me. They said yes, and Alden told me he believed I could give justice to the character. He also promised to take good care of me, and he did.”

In the film, Heaven plays a public prosecutor who becomes Alden’s love interest. To prepare, she immersed herself in the world of law. “I did my research,” she shared. “A friend of mine is taking up Law, and he would bring me along to observe cases. That helped a lot in understanding my character.”

Alden not only stars in the film but also directs it. Heaven admitted that this setup came with both perks and challenges.

“As our director, he already knows the shots and what kind of acting is required,” she said. “That makes things easier on set. But the downside is he barely gets to rest. There were moments I felt bad for him. Sometimes I’d just let him rest instead of chatting.”

True to his reputation, Heaven described Alden as “very caring.”

“He really is! He keeps his promise, he’s thoughtful with everyone. He even sends me fruits. He’s a spoiler,” she added, laughing.

As a director, she said Alden pays attention to detail. “He’s clear about what he wants from his actors. I appreciate that because you don’t have to guess what’s expected of you. He’s also respectful, he listens to suggestions and considers them if they fit the scene. Collaboration matters to him.” *

MEANWHILE , Carla Abellana gave a composed reaction to news about her former husband, Tom Rodriguez , who recently welcomed a baby with his non-showbiz partner.

“Good for him!” she said. “A baby is a blessing. You should embrace it. It’s not something shocking. All I can say is congratulations!”

Asked if she’s open to being friends with Tom again, Carla was candid. “Honestly, no, not friends,” she replied. “But I know it’s inevitable that we’ll cross paths since we’re in the same industry. If we bump into each other at an event, it’s fine with me. But as friends? Not at the moment.”

Would she consider working with him again? Carla didn’t hesitate: “I guess I’ll say no to that. It’s not happening soon. If I had the choice, I’d refuse.”

Alden Richards (left) and Heaven Peralejo in a scene from ‘Out of Order,’ now streaming on Netflix

From left: Janella Salvador, Klea Pineda, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, and Leanne Mamonong of ‘Open Endings’ receive the Best Ensemble Performance award

Mylene Dizon receives the Best Actress award for her performance in ‘Habang Nilalamon ng Hydra ang Kasaysayan’

Rochelle Pangilinan accepts her Best Supporting

Actress award for ‘Child No. 82’ at the Cinemalaya 21 awards night

Director Noni Abao (rightmost) and ‘Bloom Where You Are Planted’ team celebrate wins Best Film at the 21st edition of Cinemalaya

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2025

NICKIE

WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

A sweet comeback with a fresh twist

La Lola reopens with a mix of old favorites and new treats

By Jasper Valdez

FEW snacks have left as lasting an impression on Filipinos as La Lola’s churros, freshly fried and dipped in thick chocolate. After closing during the pandemic, the familiar snack is back, reviving old favorites while introducing new ways to enjoy them.

On Sept. 29, Manila Standard Lifestyle was invited to Evia Lifestyle Mall in Las Piñas for a preview ahead of the brand’s October 1 reopening. The aroma of freshly fried dough greeted visitors, a reminder of why the churros once drew long lines at its counters.

“La Lola has always been a very strong brand,” said the Bistro Group.

“When we started announcing the relaunch, the response was overwhelming. We feel like the food and beverage business is bouncing back, so it’s the proper time to bring it back.”

This time, the churros are being served in more flexible portions.

“The new La Lola is friendlier in terms of size. Before, churros came in large portions, but now you can eat them solo or still share if you want. We kept the long 30- and 40-centimeter versions too,” the group explained.

For those who remember La Lola for its churros-and-chocolate combo, the relaunch offers more reasons to drop by.

The dips now come in flavors like salted egg and matcha. The Churro Dog and Churro Dough have also joined the lineup, and drinks have been expanded to include teas, lemonades, and refreshing blends that work just as well for merienda as they do for dessert.

“We worked on the churros first, then updated it to resonate with younger generations. Our fans before were Millennials, and now we’re trying to reach Gen Z as well,” the Bistro Group said.

The way they are cooked has also been refined.

“We’re employing a new way of cooking the churros to make them crunchier but less oily. They’re still fried to order, but with an extra step that gives a consistent crispiness every time,” the Bistro Group added. Instead of full cafés, La Lola is reemerging as smaller stalls designed for quick stops.

“The idea now is that it’s a snack you can grab on the go, in between errands. It’s not a full sit-down café, but more of a quick-service stall,” the group said. For many, the reopening is a taste of the past brought into the present. The first bite into a warm churro still

C4 LIFE

By Nickie Wang

IT WAS in Mandaluyong as American heritage brands

Original Penguin and Perry Ellis unveiled their Fall/Holiday 2025 collections at Antonio’s PGA Cars on Oct. 9.

Presented in collaboration with Audi cars, the event drew inspiration from the innovation and performance of the new Audi Q6 e-tron and Q7 premium SUVs.

The collections explore how men can dress for the modern movement while being practical and sophisticated at the same time.

Original Penguin’s lineup continues its heritage of effortless cool, introducing retro-modern polos, coded prints, and textured fabrics that balance playfulness with polish. Each piece emphasizes comfort and functionality, designed for men on the go.

Perry Ellis presents a renewed perspective on modern tailoring and everyday versatility. The collection features stretch suiting, refined knitwear, and tailored jackets in slate blues, charcoals, olives, and neutrals. Built with performance fabrics and flexible fits, the collection redefines modern dressing with understated elegance.

Both brands reaffirm their commitment to creating functional yet polished clothing for men who value style and comfort.

The Fall/Holiday 2025 collections are available at the dual-brand store in Shangri-La Plaza, Anthem’s multi-brand store in One Bonifacio High Street, and other branches nationwide.

Anthem Group, established in 2006, serves as the exclusive distributor of both brands in the Philippines. The company also handles Champion, Beyond The Vines, Thomas Sabo,

Redefining the modern man’s wardrobe

CHINESE luxury automaker Hongqi’s newest electric

the

and E-HS7, have earned 5-star safety ratings from the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP),

The top ratings were

km/h, side-impact assessments, and water submersion trials to evaluate resistance to flood damage.

The models also passed fire, smoke, and explosion tests, as well as a compression test replicating the impact of a 7.8-ton object falling on the panoramic glass roof—all with minimal deformation and effective airbag deployment.

“With every Hongqi model, we make sure that safety is never compromised,” said Rashid Delgado, Hongqi Philippines and EVOxTerra president and TDG Co-CEO. “Luxury means nothing without protection for passengers, drivers, and pedestrians.”

The 5-star Euro NCAP scores place Hongqi’s flagship models alongside some of the world’s top-rated vehicles in safety performance. The brand’s earlier model, the E-HS9, also achieved the same distinction.

The E-H7 sedan, priced from P2.28 million, offers a

charge driving range of 650 kilometers, while the E-HS7

starting at P2.58 million, delivers up to

charge. Both models are available for

models,

E-H7

The Hongqi E-HS7 SUV joins the brand’s growing electric lineup, achieving top marks in Euro NCAP crash and durability tests

Perry Ellis champions relaxed and understated elegance through clean silhouettes and neutrals