THE Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) yesterday announced that the Discaya couple, Pacifico and Cezarah, will no longer cooperate with the fact-finding body.
The couple attended the ICI session
By Charles Dantes and Maricel V. Cruz
Heading heading heading heading head PBBM, Cabinet to
By Charles Dantes, Ram Superable and Maricel Cruz
PRESIDENT Ferdinand
Marcos Jr. said he will make his Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth accessible to the public as he urged his Cabinet to follow his lead.
The leadership of both the House of Representatives and the Senate also expressed support for the order of Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla restoring full public access to the SALNs.
Mr. Marcos said he supports a return to the “old rules” that allowed the public and media easier access to SALNs before restrictions were imposed during the Duterte administration.
“We’ll follow the old rules. These old rules were suspended in the last administration. I was quite surprised to find out when I first came into office that it was almost impossible to get a copy of the SALN. We’re just going back to the old procedure,” he said in a press briefing Wednesday.
“My SALN will be available to whoever would like to begin… If the ICI asks me, of course I will give it. If the Ombudsman asks, we will provide it,” the President said.
Asked if he would encourage his Cabinet to do the same, Mr. Marcos replied, “Yes, of course.” Under the Constitution and Republic Act 6713, all public officials are required to file annual SALNs, but a 2020 memorandum of former Ombudsman Samuel
VICE President Sara Duterte believes there is a conflict of interest on the part of International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor Karim Khan which led to his disqualification from the trial of the crimes against humanity filed against her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte. “I have not read the papers to know the contents of the decision to dis-
By Katrina Manubay and Charles Dantes
SEVEN in 10 Filipinos (71 percent) believe that government officials involved in the irregularities in flood control projects will be held accountable, according to latest Pulse Asia survey.
Meanwhile, Malacañang on Wednesday defended President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s performance amid slight declines in recent trust ratings, saying the public is increasingly aware of his efforts to fight corruption and uplift living conditions despite ongoing national challenges.
qualify (Khan), but my understanding was he really had conflict of interest because he previously represented the alleged or supposed witnesses,” the
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong"
Marcos Jr. yesterday expressed confidence that the ongoing investigations into alleged corruption in the government infrastructure projects will clear his administration of wrongdoing. "I am confident that whatever mud might be slung at the administration, we will be able to show that these are politically motivated and do not actually have any validation in fact," President Marcos said in a press conference in Malacañang. The President accused his critics of attempting to weaponize corruption claims to destabilize his leadership.
Speaker Dy assures safeguards for UAs
By Maricel V. Cruz
SPEAKER Faustino Dy III on Wednesday assured the public that the ₱249 billion in unprogrammed appropriations under the proposed ₱6.793-trillion 2026 national budget are lawful, transparent, and strictly regulated, noting that such funds can only be accessed when government revenues exceed targets.
‘‘The unprogrammed appropriations are reserve funds of our government. This is not included in the total of the proposed budget for next year,’’
PBBM,...
From A1
Martires restricted access to the documents by requiring the consent of public officials for disclosure.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III and House Speaker Faustino Dy II backed the Ombudsman’s fresh directive.
Sotto said he is ready "anytime" to make his SALN available to the public and he will hold a caucus soon with his colleagues on access to their documents.
"When I was Senate President before, we allowed the access to the SALNs of the senators subject to their individual approval and so this is not new to us. The only variation is we redact the addresses of their properties,” Sotto said.
Remulla’s office earlier clarified that
Senate,...
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“small committee meetings,” where last-minute insertions to the proposed national budget can be made.
"To further encourage transparency, I intend to livestream the Bicam. So that's what I told them already," Mr. Marcos said.
"We will livestream the entire process so that if there are questionable, shall we say insertions or additions, [the public will know]," he added.
The Bicameral conference committee is tasked with reconciling differences between the House and Senate versions of the budget.
“The Bicam is actually a public hearing, but that has not always been
Discayas...
From A1 on Wednesday as part of the ongoing investigation into their alleged involvement in the questionable flood control projects across the country.
However, ICI executive director Brian Keith Hosaka stated that the Discayas declined to provide further information.
"They invoked their rights against self-incrimination. They will no longer participate in the investigation with the ICI," Hosaka remarked.
He explained that the couple apparently came to that decision after ICI Commissioner Rogelio Singson said in a televised interview that none of those who have testified before the body were qualified for state witness status.
The Discayas have served as resource persons before the ICI on September 30 and October 7.
One of their companies is among the top 15 contractors that received 20% of the flood control budget and has been accused of delivering substandard or even nonexistent projects.
St. Gerrard Construction is owned by Sarah Discaya, a controversial and unsuccessful Pasig City mayoral candidate in the midterm elections, who was recently exposed for her extravagant lifestyle.
The Discaya family also faced criticism from netizens after displaying at least 40 luxury cars they own.
Meanwhile, Acting Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida approved the request of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to issue an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) against
VP... From A1
Vice President told reporters in Zamboanga City on Wednesday.
Duterte was referring to Khan’s participation in 2018 in the legal team representing more than 100 victims of the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.
Dy said, explaining that the amount’’ about 3.6 percent of the 2026 General Appropriations Bill” is within the five-percent ceiling set by the Depart-
certain details such as the permanent address and information on minor children will be redacted to ensure compliance with the Data Privacy Act.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said there should be no issue to making their SALNs accessible to the public.
"This is one way of bringing the confidence of the public back to the government,” Gatchalian said.
Senator Bam Aquino said the policy would be “a good step to start cleansing our government” while Senator Risa Hontiveros backed the removal of the Duterte-era restrictions, which she described as "unjust, unconstitutional and anti-people."
Senator Francis Pangilinan, for his part, said the SALN of former Ombudsman Martires should be the first to be made public.
“The SALN of former Ombudsman Martires should be released first, starting from when he sat as Supreme Court
followed. Now, it will all be out in the open,” the President said.
For his part, Speaker Dy said he fully supports the livestreaming of Bicam deliberations, even as the chamber has also pioneered other measures aimed at greater transparency in the allocation of public funds.
“That is also what we [have wanted] ever since we were elected as Speaker. That is our commitment to our countrymen — to make our budget for next year accountable and transparent,” he said in a radio interview.
Dy said the House recently implemented the Budget Amendment and Revision Subcommittee (BARSc), which allows broader participation from other House members, agency executives, and even civil society,
several individuals involved in the flood control projects anomaly.
Among those placed under the lookout order are former Caloocan Rep. Mary Mitzi “Mitch” Cajayon-Uy, Arturo Atayde, Alvin Tan, Bong Marasigan, Elmer de Leon, Ed Fuentebella, Johnny Santos, John Mary Vianney Parago, Alvin Mariano, Ryan Uy, Darryl Recio, Nestor Venturina, Benjie Tocol, and district engineers Aristotle Ramos, Michael Rosaria, and Angelita Garucha.
On Monday, the ICI requested that 19 individuals be placed on immigration lookout, but only 16 were approved, as the three other persons were already subject to such monitoring.
The three include Romeo "Bogs" Magalong Jr., district engineers Ramon Devanadera and Johnny Protesta Jr.
As this developed, dismissed Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bulacan district engineer Henry Alcantara was rushed to the hospital yesterday after complaining of chest discomfort while under Senate detention.
Senate Office of the Sergeant-atArms (OSAA) Chief Police Maj. Gen. Mao Aplasca confirmed the incident, saying the disgraced former DPWH official was transported to Pasay Medical Center for an electrocardiogram and other medical tests.
“He is very much normal up to today, and every day the Senate medical team is conducting regular checkups on all our detainees to monitor their status,” Aplasca added.
Joel E. Zurbano, Pot Chavez, and Ram Superable
The team petitioned then-chief prosecutor Fatou Bensouda to apply with the Pre-Trial Chamber for authorization to open an investigation into the Philippines’ situation.
When asked if the decision would be better for her father’s defense, Sara said what matters most was the defense’s preparations against all possible evidence that the prosecution might raise against them.
ment of Budget and Management.
Dy said the House has removed infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and flood control from the unprogrammed list and redirected the funds to education, health, and social protection. He also assured that multiple safeguards are in place, including the requirement for agencies to submit detailed budget requests before any release and a quarterly utilization report monitored by a congressional oversight committee.
Meanwhile, Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste, vice chair of the House
Justice up until he stepped down as Ombudsman this year. Then we might be able to find out why he was against the release of the SALN,” he
At the House, Dy said they will review their rules on the public disclosure of the SALNs of lawmakers to promote transparency and accountability, adding that he is ready to make his own SALN public to set an example.
“There are talks that the members of the House are willing (to comply). I think it's good to talk about it. During our break, we will carefully discuss this so that we can issue a clear policy on how we can support the policy to release our SALNs,” the Speaker said.
In an interview last week, Vice President Sara Duterte said she is open to having her SALN reviewed by the new Ombudsman.
“He should not just take a look at it. He should put it in front of him and
replacing “small committees” in reviewing the proposed budget.
“That's why BARSc was established… For the first time, our budget hearing became more open and transparent,” the Speaker explained.
Recently, Akbayan party-list Rep. Chel Diokno filed a resolution calling on Congress to open the Bicam, "so that there will be no more issues about having secret or insertions during the Bicam proceedings."
He said the previous bicameral meetings had "gone far beyond" their purpose, and the conduct of a closed Bicam "must stop."
“That's the problem with a closed Bicam. There are no records, and we don't know where the insertions came from,” Diokno said.
Meanwhile, Department of Budget
Marcos...
From A1
"I know the opposition would love to bring me into this. But that’s politics. They want to remove me, so they will do everything," he said.
Mr. Marcos' remarks come amid scrutiny of high-profile officials and lawmakers, including his own political allies and his cousin --- former House Speaker Martin Romualdez — over the alleged "ghost" infrastructure projects mess.
"That's why we have the Indepen-
Seven...
From A1
This sentiment is more pronounced in Metro Manila with 47 percent, followed by Balance Luzon at 43 percent, Mindanao at 40 percent and Visayas at 26 percent.
The Ulat ng Bayan poll also showed that at least half of Filipino adults (51 percent) trust media’s role in addressing corruption involving flood control projects. Civil society organizations followed closely with 50 percent of the respondents expressing trust in them.
The results also revealed that public trust in the Senate stands at 37 percent, while 36 percent are unsure about the chamber’s trustworthiness.
The Office of the Ombudsman has nearly identical figures in terms of public trust and indecision, with 39 percent expressing trust and 43 percent expressing indecision.
“For the prosecution, it does not matter who is the prosecutor because they will do the same job of investigating and the same case build-up,” she said in Filipino.
“So what is really important is the preparation of the defense team of former President Rodrigo Duterte against any witnesses or evidence the prosecution might raise,” she added.
committee on appropriations, vowed to oppose what he described as ‘‘infrastructure kickbacks’’ in the 2026 budget. He argued that failing to reduce the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) project costs by 25 percent would effectively fund billions in alleged kickbacks.
‘‘After all the flood control hearings, we should not approve the same prices for DPWH projects. We should lower prices by 25 percent to remove 150 billion in possible kickbacks,’’ Leviste said, adding he will raise the issue during the bicameral conference commit-
study carefully whatever he wants to do (with the information),” Duterte said.
Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said SALNs dating back from 20 years ago are covered by the new memorandum since the prescriptive period for the filing of charges against those liable for graft is 20 years.
"Since the law provides for 20 years, then that will also be the period for which you can access SALNs. So, even SALNs filed during the previous Memorandum Circular in the past administration are now open for public viewing," he said.
“At a time when trust in institutions is tested, the best way to rebuild confidence is through openness backed by concrete access to information. This step is not about politics; it is about accountability. The public deserves proof, not promises, that integrity still has a place in public service,” Clavano added.
and Management (DBM) Undersecretary Goddes Hope Libiran affirmed that this move marks an unprecedented step in budget deliberations.
"As far as we know, this is the first time in history,” Libiran said.
"Usually, bicam proceedings are held by Congress behind closed doors. The executive is not part of it. So we fully support that it will be livestreamed now," she added.
As this developed, Mr. Marcos said he would closely monitor the final stages of deliberations for next year’s National Expenditure Program. The 2026 national budget, amounting to P6.793 trillion, will undergo final scrutiny in the bicameral conference before being sent to Malacañang for approval.
dent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI). They are an independent commission...and if necessary or if it is justified, they will recommend to either the Ombudsman or to the DOJ that cases be filed," the president said.
"So, let them do their work. We do not interfere with what they do. Wherever it might lead," he added.
President Marcos insisted he had nothing to hide and said any probe must be guided strictly by evidence.
"We investigate everybody. We’ll follow the evidence. And wherever that leads is not something that we try to direct or influence," he said.
In the House of Representatives, a similar situation is observed, as 36% of respondents distrust the lower chamber, while 40 percent are uncertain about their feelings, neither trusting nor distrusting. The face-to-face survey was conducted on Sept. 27-30, covering 1,200 respondents aged 18 and above.
The sampling error margin is ± 2.8 percent error margin at the 95 percent confidence level. Subnational estimates for the geographic areas covered in the survey have the following error margins at 95 percent confidence level: ± 5.7 percent for Metro Manila, the rest of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. In a statement, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said President Marcos remains focused on governance rather than political popularity, emphasizing that Filipinos are beginning to see the administration’s commitment to public service.
In August, the Duterte defense team sought Khan’s disqualification from the case, arguing that Khan’s former representation of an alleged policy of extra-judicial drug-related killings in the Philippines and his role in the trial of Duterte can be considered as an “irreconcilable conflict of interest”.
tee deliberations in November. Leviste, one of 12 lawmakers who voted against the budget, also cited the claim of former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo that nearly all DPWH bids are rigged. He urged realignment of potential savings from overpriced projects toward education and other essential programs. Both lawmakers emphasized accountability and transparency in crafting the 2026 spending plan, with Dy saying the House “worked until dawn†to ensure a reform-driven and publicly accountable budget.
By Vito Barcelo
A CATHOLIC Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) official has condemned the killing of Niruh Kyle Antatico, a 40-year-old former legal researcher of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) in Northern Mindanao, who was shot dead by unidentified assailants on October 10. Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Jose Cabantan described Antatico, a whistleblower who exposed alleged irregularities in NIA projects, as a ‘‘courageous advocate for truth, justice, and integrity.’’ Antatico, who served as a legal researcher at NIA Northern Mindanao, was gunned down by still unidentified attackers in Cagayan de Oro City. In a statement, Cabantan urged authorities to ensure accountability and deliver ‘‘swift and rightful justic’’ for Antatico’s killing, saying his death ‘‘has darkened our community.’’ He also extended his condolences to the victim’s family and called on the public to renew their commitment to truth and the common good.
Reports said Antatico had assisted local farmers in filing complaints over alleged substandard and incomplete irrigation projects under the NIA.Cabantan noted that Antatico’s death underscores the risks faced by those who stand for truth, saying ‘the price of standing for truth... can be tragically high.’’
Apl.de.ap...
From A1 and producer launched the project in Liliw, Laguna, on October 14, aiming to make farming both sustainable and community-driven.
Apl.De.Ap said his love for agriculture began in Pampanga, where he learned to farm alongside his grandfather.
“Before I moved to the US, I used to help my grandfather in tending to a lot of buffalos. And also, plant crops from sweet potato, to corn, to kamoteng kahoy,” he told GMA News State of the Nation in an interview.. The idea for the initiative took root during the pandemic when he learned about the effects of soil degradation. That led him to discover biochar, a type of organic soil made from biowaste that helps restore soil health.
“Coconut has the best carbon to create biochar,” Apl.De.Ap explained, adding that the project also seeks to uplift local coconut farmers and bring their products to a global market.
Laguna serves as the pilot site, but the Grammy-winning artist said he is already working with cooperatives, local governments, and national agencies to expand the effort.
“Beginning of next year, I’m hoping to start the whole project, working with coops and LGUs and farmers,” Apl.De.Ap said. “We gotta figure it out, that’s why we’re doing the pilot here so that it’s easier.”
Meanwhile, Sara confirmed that her younger sisters, Veronica and Mira, are preparing to spend Christmas and New Year with their father in The Hague. She also admitted that the former president has been struggling emotionally “He is sad about what is happening in the country. He is frustrated and sleepless because he could not be of help. He wanted to do something about the corruption in the government,” Sara said.
Asked about allegations of corruption in her father’s administration, Duterte said critics should not be selective in their accusations.
Citizens hit worsening Bacolod floods
By Edwin Ombion
BACOLOD CITY—Commuters, transport operators, village leaders, and business groups criticized the city government for worsening floods despite billions spent on flood control.
“It’s becoming a ‘Waterworld, Bacolod version,’” said Fr. Greg Patino of the One Negros Ecumenical Council.
More than two hours of continuous rain on Tuesday left much of the city submerged in knee-deep waters — including upscale subdivisions and business districts — with some areas waist-deep.
Ting Navarro, a transport driver covering downtown to Bata, said flooding is worse now than five or six years ago.
“It’s disgusting that despite so many flood control projects, the problem has only gotten worse,” he said.
Chong Tan, a businessman and member of the Filipino-Chinese Chamber, said floods have severely affected businesses, “doubling efforts and expenses while cutting returns.”
Christian Weber of Amlig Tubig Citizens Water Watch and the Council of Concerned Citizens said that despite over ₱4 billion in flood control funding from 2017 to 2025, the city “is drowning even without typhoons.”
Weber dismissed city hall’s claim that garbage clogging drains caused the problem. “That’s absurd. The city has millions annually for waste management,” he said.
He added that the issue stems from “systemic corruption causing economic losses, depriving poor citizens of services, and degrading governance.” His group plans to file cases against those responsible.
DOH, Marikina clash on centers
By Ram Superable
THE Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday reported that 297 Super Health Centers nationwide remain incomplete or non-operational, while the city government of Marikina defended itself against claims that one of its facilities was among the “ghost projects.”
Council reviews Pasig River rehabilitation efforts
By Joel E. Zurbano
MEMBERS of the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Ferry Urban Development (IACPRUD) met to discuss ongoing government projects to enhance and rehabilitate the Pasig River. The council reviewed initiatives to improve the river’s surroundings through community engagement and sustainability programs. Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman and IAC-PRUD Vice Chairperson Don Artes said discussions covered draft resolutions, beautification plans, and updates on the Pasig River Integrated Master Plan (PRISM). Artes thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Marcos for their support through the Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli project, which seeks to develop riverside communities. Present at the meeting were MMDA officials, Undersecretaries Frisco San Juan Jr. and Procopio Lipana, and representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways, National Historical Commission, and Philippine Coast Guard.
DSWD takes custody of Bukidon elderly, PWDs
By Maricel V. Cruz
THE Department of Social Welfare and Development
(DSWD) Field Office 10–Northern Mindanao has taken custody of 17 elderly persons and individuals with disabilities rescued from an unregistered care facility in Maramag, Bukidnon.
Authorities conducted the rescue operation on October 11 after reports that the Bukidnon Multi-Sectoral Services Foundation Inc. was unsafe and unsanitary.
DSWD Assistant Secretary Juan Carlo Marquez
Executive Order 35, signed by President Marcos, created the IAC-PRUD to oversee the river’s full rehabilitation, promote alternative transport, and boost economic and tourism activities.
The Pasig River Esplanade, spanning 25 kilometers across Manila, Mandaluyong, Makati, Pasig, and Taguig, will feature bike lanes, jogging paths, and commercial areas. Its first phase, near the Manila Post Office, opened in February. Historically, the Pasig River has been a key transport route but was declared severely polluted by environmental experts.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said the finding came after inspections and reviews of government-funded health infrastructure projects that failed to open or deliver services.
Among the flagged facilities was the Super Health Center in Barangay Concepcion Dos, Marikina City, which Herbosa personally inspected on October 15. The ₱21.4-million project, envisioned as a four-story health facility, remains in its first phase, with only a steel framework standing on-site.
The unfinished structure, surrounded by tall grass, was meant to be completed years earlier under the DOH’s Super Health Center Program. “This project cost ₱21 million in public funds and began in December 2023, yet nearly two years later, it remains unfinished and has yet to provide any health services,” Herbosa said.
The DOH said the project was initially funded at ₱11.5 million to build a two-story center, but the local government revised the design to a fourstory structure, raising the cost to ₱21.4 million for Phase 1 alone and ₱201 million for full completion.
Herbosa said the design changes caused delays and cost overruns.
“Some centers are complete but not operational, while others remain halfbuilt. We need to find out how to make them serve the people as soon as possible,” he added.
The DOH will submit the list of idle facilities to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure on October 17 for review.
In response, the Marikina City government denied that its Concepcion Dos project was abandoned. It said the ₱11.5-million first phase was completed and validated by DOH inspectors.
“It is misleading and irresponsible for the DOH to suggest the entire facility could be finished with such limited funds. The city repeatedly followed up on additional funding, but none was released,” the LGU said.
The city said it has decided to continue construction using local funds “to ensure that Marikeños receive the quality healthcare services they rightfully deserve.”
IN BRIEF
DPWH signs deal to restore Central Post Office building
THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Philippine Postal Corporation have signed a Memorandum of Agreement to retrofit and restore the Manila Central Post Office, which was damaged in a 2023 fire.
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon has promised to prioritize Phase 1 of the restoration project, focusing on the renovation of the building’s historic façade.
He said the restoration aims to preserve the historical value of the landmark, in collaboration with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the DPWH to lead the rehabilitation of the Manila Central Post Office, a significant and iconic landmark in Metro Manila.
“We promise to you, we will do this as fast as possible,” Dizon said, adding that the project will ensure the correct and swift restoration of the country’s most iconic heritage structures. Vito Barcelo
SC dismisses disqualification case filed against Edgar Erice
THE Supreme Court (SC) announced on Wednesday its decision dismissing the petition to disqualify Caloocan 2nd District Rep. Edgar Erice in the 2025 polls.
The SC en banc reversed the ruling of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) disqualifying Erice for alleged violation of the Omnibus Election Code (OEC).
In its decision, the High Tribunal clarified that a candidate can only be disqualified if a competent court has already found them guilty of violating the OEC or the Local Government Code in a separate proceeding.
“It is the final decision finding the candidate guilty which can serve as the basis for disqualification. Thus, the finding of guilt must come from an earlier case, not the disqualification case itself,” the SC said. Pot Chavez
PNP strengthens partnership with ARTA on transparency
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) acting chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., vowed to strengthen the agency’s cooperation with the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) to ensure a more efficient, transparent, and citizen-centered public service.
Nartatez welcomed ARTA Director General Ernesto Perez and other officials during their courtesy visit at Camp Crame in Quezon City on October 13. The meeting served as an avenue to reinforce collaboration between the PNP and ARTA in promoting efficient service delivery and accountability within police transactions.
“The collaboration between the PNP and ARTA aims to strengthen transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the delivery of police services. Through this partnership, we are streamlining internal and external processes to ensure faster, more efficient, and citizenfriendly transactions in all PNP offices nationwide,” Nartatez said. Vince Lopez
BACOLOD CITY FLOODING. Residents criticize the city government for the worsening floods in many parts of Bacolod City.
RACE TO CLEAN. Window cleaners race to clean One West Building at West Aeropark in Clark Global City, Pampanga. Revoli Cortez
LOOKS MAY BE DECEIVING. Viewed from afar, Mt. Kanlaon and its environs look serene , safe, and adorable, but the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology raises Alert Level 2 as the volcano shows signs of intensifying restiveness, strictly banning entry into the four-kilometer permanent danger zone around it. Phivolcs photo
PNP helps enforce price freeze
By Vince Lopez
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) will work closely with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and local government units to ensure the strict enforcement of a 60-day price freeze on basic goods in Davao Oriental in the aftermath of twin earthquakes that jolted the province last week.
The collaboration was meant to ensure that all government agencies are mobilized in protecting the welfare of citizens affected by natural disasters, particularly by maintaining order, sta-
AFP reaffirms loyalty to gov’t, Constitution
By Rex Espiritu
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday reaffirmed its loyalty to the Constitution and to the duly constituted authorities, while at the same time dismissing suggestions to withdraw support from the government. AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla issued the statement following a dialogue between AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and a group of retired military officers led by Maj. Gen. Romeo Poquiz.
In a statement, Padilla clarified it was not a formal meeting but a “requested audience graciously granted by Brawner.
“In the spirit of respect and openness, the CSAFP (Brawner) ensured that his entire battle staff was present to listen to their concerns and views,” Padilla said.
Padilla said Brawner reiterated during the dialogue that the AFP remains a “professional and non-partisan organization, loyal only to the Constitution and duly constituted authorities. “ She stressed that the AFP will not be swayed by any calls or actions beyond its constitutional mandate, and assured the public that the institution remains solid and united under Brawner’s leadership.
bilizing supply chains, and preventing exploitation during the crisis situation as ordered by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“The police will help in implement-
ing the price freeze in Davao Oriental. We will coordinate with the DTI to ensure that its directives for retailers are being observed following the twin earthquakes,” PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.
He said police presence and coordination were intended to help maintain peace and order in the quake-stricken areas.
“Th is will help prevent looting incidents in the area. This is a great help for our countrymen who were greatly affected by the earthquake,” Nartatez said.
The DTI earlier announced that the
automatic price freeze will be in effect from Oct. 13 to Dec. 12, 2025 to ensure that prices of basic necessities remain stable and affordable for consumers during the recovery period.
Nartatez gave assurance that there are sufficient police personnel and assets to support ongoing relief and rehabilitation operations in coordination with local disaster response units.
“The PNP stands ready to assist in any capacity to help our fellow Filipinos in Davao Oriental recover and rebuild. In this time of disaster, we must ensure that no one will exploit and everyone will receive assistance,” he said.
COURTESY CALL. Philippine Air Force commander Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura (right) confers with Joint United States Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG) chief Col. Daniel J. Oh during the latter’s courtesy call the PAF headquarters in Villamor Air Base, Pasay City. PAF photo
IN BRIEF
JUSMAG chief calls on PAF commander
THE Philippines and the United States reaffirmed their defense partnership during a courtesy call by U.S. senior defense officer, defense attaché, and chief of the Joint United States Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG) Col. Daniel Oh on Philippine Air Force (PAF) commander Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura at the PAF headquarters at Jesus Villamor Air Base, Pasay City on Tuesday, Oct. 14.
The meeting centered on strengthening defense cooperation through joint patrols and expanded participation in bilateral military exercises. Both sides also discussed ongoing initiatives and developments under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) projects.
The visit underscored the longstanding alliance between the Philippine and U.S. armed forces, highlighting their shared commitment to regional security, interoperability, and capability enhancement. Rex Espiritu
CIDG nabs 3 in illegal refill of LPG cylinders
OPERATIVES of the Philippine National Police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) have arrested in San Jose, Batangas three suspects while allegedly in the act of illegal refill of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders.
CIDG chief Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II said the suspects, identified by their aliases Guillerma,. Romel, and Gerald, were aprprehended based on a complaint by a Batangas-based fuel company.
The arresting team also seized some P7.8 million worth of LPG products and refilling equipment.
The CIDG’s “Oplan Lira”- intensified operations against illegal trading of LPG products in compliance with a directive by acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. Vince Lopez
Kuwait court convicts four in OFW murder
THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Wednesday reported that the main suspect in the killing of overseas Filipino worker (OFW) Dafnie Nacalaban has been convicted to 14 years imprisonment by a Kuwaiti court.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said three accomplices were also found guilty and given separate prison terms.
Nacalaban’s body was found buried in her employer’s backyard in Saad Al-Abdullah, Jahra, Kuwait, in December 2024, after she went missing two months earlier.
The DMW and the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait provided legal assistance in prosecuting the principal suspect, a Kuwaiti national with a known criminal record, who had admitted to the murder. Vito Barcelo
Mt. Kanlaon unrest intensifying with fresh ash emissions
THE Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island showed increased signs of unrest with another ash emission on Wednesday morning, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported.
Meanwhile, at least five barangays in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental are under close monitoring following recent
ash emissions, a city disaster response official said on Wednesday.
Based on a new 25-second time-lapse footage recorded between 6:54 a.m. to 7:40 a.m. on Oct. 15, Kanlaon was discharging grayish plumes that reached 100 meters above the crater before drifting southwest from the Phivolcs’ observatory in Canlaon City.
Farmer plants lemons, reaps fame, fortune
“WHEN you are given lemons, make lemonade” is an adage referring to adopting a can-do attitude in the face of adversities and misfortunes.
Nueva Vizcaya farmer Alfonso Namuje Jr. is a typical personification of this maxim, being the driving force of his community that called him the “Father of Citrus” for having pioneered the propagation of citrus in Malabing Valley.
Even as a young boy, Namuje has been drawn to planting such that he took up Agriculture in college. But fate had a different plan for him, so he found himself working at a pig farm in Laguna where he became a manager.
But still, the call of the orchards was too loud to ignore so he returned to planting fruit trees again on his own backyard.
Neighbors loved the fruits of Namuje’s labor, so he
decided to go back home to Malabing Valley and dive into citrus growing full time.
That was the turning point, and the local villagers started to emulate him and cultivated their own citrus farms.
Eventually Malabing became the citrus capital of Nueva Vizcaya, and they owed the recognition to Namuje’s initiatives. Before long, the Namuje Integrated Farm was born through the f Malabing Valley Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MVMPC) which he helped organize.
As interest in citrus broadened, more farmers hopped into the bandwagon, and they gained access to techniques, financial support, and farm inputs, while Namuje’s pilot farm became a living classroom and an agri-tourism site.
The state-run Land Bank of the Philippines eventually provided financial support that enabled the cooperative to expand operations.
According to Phivolcs’ latest volcano bulletin, there were 17 volcanic earthquakes in Kanlaon over the past 24 hours. It also emitted an estimated 3,370 tons of sulfur dioxide. Entry into the four-kilometer radius permanent danger zone (PDZ) and flying any type of aircraft near the volcano remained prohibited.
Alert Level 2, or moderate level of volcanic unrest, remained raised over the volcano. This indicated probable intrusion of magma at depth, which can lead to magmatic eruption, according to Phivolcs.
State seismologists are closely monitoring the volcano following its string of ash emissions lately. Rex Espiritu
‘FATHER OF CITRUS.’ Nueva Vizcaya farmers rerecognize Alfonso Namuje Jr. as the ‘father of citrus’ for having pioneered the local propagation of citrus trees that made a great difference in their social and economic life. LANDBANK photo
OPINION
The deep blue sea?
IT’S not just a bend in the road, though it would require a bending of the law, with apologies to the acting chair of the discredited Senate’s Blue Ribbon Committee.
It is a choice between the unbearable and the unfathomable, “between the devil and the deep blue sea.” That idiom best describes the choices confronting us now. The system is broke, rotten to the core. Our religious leaders call for redemption, as if that is yet possible under a system which nurtures dynasties where politics has become big business.
Can values change overnight, even if we storm the heavens with prayers, as it gives us strong messages, from earthquakes in Benguet, Bogo and Manay, and typhoons that destroy lives and property not because of its strength but because of the weakness of our “protective” infrastructure?
Can we wait for another changing of the guard in 2028, knowing full well that: (1) we will be drowning in 23 trillions of debt by then, with little wherewithal to pay these; (2) we will have lost the confidence of the international community, having been mired in endless corruption; (3) our OFWs and BPO sources of employment shall have been gouged of earnings by AI and robots; and (4) we will still choose leaders from the entrenched dynasts funded by big business who take advantage of regulatory capture, and contractors who partner with politicians to steal our money?
Can we place our trust on how far the ICI will go in identifying the culprits, from district engineers and their accomplices, especially the proponents who purposely fund the greatest scams in our corruption-laden history?
More than that, can we expect our prosecutorial and judicial arms to render the proper punitive judgment, though the heavens fall?
There are voices out there who say they cannot wait until 2028, with a now strident youth activism, precisely because the political system will not permit genuine reform.
They posit a vague “revolutionary” government, the leadership of which depends on who you listen to, from a ridiculous 30-member military-civilian junta to a more acceptable transition leadership headed by the Chief Justice, to a Constitutionally provided succession by the vice president.
All these of course can happen only if a coup, whether similar to EDSA One where sectors of the military mutinied, thence supported by the public through “people power,” or that of EDSA Two where the disgruntled trooped to the corner of EDSA and Ortigas in growing numbers until the military top brass joined them in calling for the incumbent president to resign.
The first was preceded by a “snap” election called by the authoritarian leader in the autumn of his power, pressured by the only foreign power that then mattered, the US of A. The second was triggered by an impeachment trial where the House prosecutors walked out after losing the vote on a mysterious “second envelope” that proved later to be the foolish tactic of the impeached leader’s legal team.
Both transpired amidst lingering political crises brought about by corruption scandals, an economy crippled by feckless leadership or an overstaying one, and disenchantment by a middle class whose savings were dissipated by inflation and a falling peso, topped by the maneuvers of the rich and the clerics.
Between the devil we know which is corruption in almost all levels, or the deep blue sea which promises a radical reset of governance?
Today, all of us are shocked by the level of corruption in many agencies of government with the legislature providing the indecent ways and means through budgetary manipulation, while the chief executive is unable to decisively act even with the awesome powers the Constitution has granted, and an intelligence and investigative machinery from both the civilian and military arms under him.
Beyond dramatic effects in his SONA, to a few “angry” ground inspections, to the creation by executive order of an ICI, many distrust the president’s crisis efforts and suspect “delaying tactics” in the hope the “forget and forgive” syndrome eventually wears out the public outrage, thus saving the big fishes.
Blindsided by all the corruption going on under his nose for the last three years while now claiming genuine resolve to let the axe fall wherever it may, however, points to hollow and ineffective leadership.
The severity of capital flight is being debated, but business leaders have warned openly, from the usual Makati Business Club to the unusual FilipinoChinese chamber, about the crippling effects of corruption upon the economy.
Are Filipinos being made to choose between the devil and the deep blue sea?
Between the devil we know which is corruption in almost all levels, or the deep blue sea which promises a radical reset of governance?
Transparency
THE name of the game right now with regard to all the flood control scandal investigations, is transparency.
The public wants an open investigation so they can judge for themselves whether or not there will be any attempts to railroad the conduct of the investigation.
That is how far the public mistrust on the government has become.
Many cause-oriented groups and the media monitoring the many inquiries are demanding the ICI open the investigation to the public.
They believe the ICI is being unreasonably secretive with its investigations. There is even no available spokesperson to explain to the media what has transpired during a particular session without necessarily divulging any confidential details.
Whatever information comes out after a particular session is left to the invited resource persons if he wants to explain to the media what he or she wants to divulge which predictably will not satisfy the inquisitive media or a public hungry for information.
So, what could be the reason of the
ICI for this extreme secrecy?
To venture an educated guess, wanting to be fair could be one of the reasons.
Perhaps, the ICI, realizing what is at stake in the investigations, wants to be extremely careful so as not to expose those being interviewed to a trial by publicity as the committee has stated which has happened in controversial cases in the past.
Despite the public’s desire for bombshell information about the scandal, let’s all try to be patient and not assume for the worst
There is no denying that the outcomes of such cases in the past were driven by public passion and media frenzy or overzealousness.
Another reason could be that the ICI
EDITORIAL
Unhealthy mess at DOH
THE report that over 400 clinics under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP) of the Department of Health are lying idle indicates rank failure by its leadership to respond to the needs of those who really need health care the most because of poverty.
More than this, it is symptomatic of a governance system that merely builds structures but does not provide services for sustained public benefit.
The HFEP was designed to expand primary care access to poor and disadvantaged communities. Instead, hundreds of facilities remain non-operational even as budgets were spent for their construction.
Recent congressional hearings show only a fraction of special health centers are functional, and the public and even other government officials compare the dysfunction to other large-scale procurement scandals.
This failure to make health centers designed to cater to the needs of the poor fully operational could have been avoided.
For one thing, oversight gaps allow projects to be approved and funded without enforceable milestones that tie the release of money to service readiness.
For another, fragmented national-
committee members do not like the investigations to be personality driven wherein the committee members become bigger than the issue being investigated.
They may simply want that whoever will be charged will be solely based on the evidence and not personal ambition or the desire of some elements in society.
The public should also remember that under our judicial system, no matter how some of the characters in this drama have been portrayed by the media as guilty already even before any trial has been concluded, they are still all considered innocent until pronounced guilty in a court of law.
One plus factor on ICI’s part is that the members have been avoiding the limelight.
It is very seldom that any of them have given any media interviews.
In the one time General Rodolfo Azurin Jr., the new committee adviser and
local coordination produces facilities that are built but not staffed, equipped, or integrated into referral and supply chains.
The visible waste erodes public trust and normalizes impunity, inviting more shadowy transactions in future capital outlays
There’s also questionable procurement and budget processes that enable contractors and intermediaries to capture resources while accountability mechanisms remain weak. Why should all this be a matter of concern? Idle clinics are an immediate
investigator issued a short statement, was in an ambush interview by the media. This is in contrast to his predecessor who gave many interviews while the investigation was still going on.
In fact, the committee is so circumspect that when a leader of a causeoriented group said in an interview the ICI should at least mention whether a project is anomalous, the committee did not respond.
This is because no conclusions should be made until a case has been filed in court or referred to the Office of the Ombudsman. The issue of transparency is quite understandable.
But since this scandal will result in people losing everything including their liberty for the rest of their lives, it is paramount that fairness is not sacrificed.
The ICI should therefore stand firm on its decision because, after everything is said and done, the ICI investigations will be judged solely on the results of the
health-system failure. Money spent on unusable infrastructure is money taken from medicines, human resources, and prevention programs.
The visible waste erodes public trust and normalizes impunity, inviting more shadowy transactions in future capital outlays.
Practical reforms that should be undertaken include making funding releases contingent on funding with clear and verifiable guideposts. Funding tranches must be released only after independent validation that a facility is staffed, equipped, and operational.
The government should also require integrated project plans co-signed by LGUs and the DOH that allocate operating budgets, staffing commitments and supply chains even before construction begins. To encourage transparency, the government should create monitoring teams empowered to document readiness and prevent flagrant noncompliance.
In the end, what is needed is not only to strengthen administrative follow-through and conduct investigations that move beyond headlines to timely case buildup, but also the imposition of sanctions that would prevent a repetition of such wanton waste of precious public funds.
inquiries conducted. Perhaps what the ICI can do if it is not doing it already is to video all proceedings as part of its official records so that if there will be questions of any nature later on, the video recordings can be made available for reference.
Another that the ICI should perhaps consider is the appointment of a spokesperson to provide some allowable information to a public hungry for information.
So far however, the conduct of the Committee has been judicious and in accordance to its mandate.
Despite the public’s desire for bombshell information about the scandal, let’s all try to be patient and not assume for the worst.
The ICI at least deserves that.
Let’s wait for the investigations to run its course and then judge the ICI on the basis of the charges they will eventually refer to the Ombudsman or file in court.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025
Israel to reopen Gaza’s Rafah
JERUSALEM – Israel will allow Gaza’s Rafah crossing to reopen on Wednesday for humanitarian aid to enter from Egypt into the Palestinian territory, Israeli public broadcaster KAN said.
“Six hundred trucks of humanitarian aid will be dispatched (Wednesday) to the Gaza Strip by the UN, approved international organizations, the private sector and donor countries,” KAN said on its website without citing sources. The UN and aid organizations have urged the reopening of the major crossing as Gaza faces a devastating humanitarian crisis after two years of war in the
territory, sparked by Hamas Oct. 7, 2023 attack.
At the end of August, the United Nations declared famine in Gaza, though Israel rejected the claim.
The Israeli public broadcaster said the reopening of the southern Rafah crossing, decided by the “political echelon”, follows Hamas handing over the remains of four more hostages late Tuesday under
a ceasefire deal that took effect on Friday.
Under the agreement brokered by US President Donald Trump, Hamas was due to hand over all hostages, both living and dead, within 72 hours of the truce coming into effect on Friday.
While the Palestinian militants did release all 20 of the living hostages it held on time, by Tuesday evening it had handed over to Israel the remains of only eight of the 28 dead hostages held in the Gaza Strip.
Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir on Tuesday threatened to cut off aid supplies to Gaza if Hamas failed to return the remains of soldiers still held in the territory.
According to KAN, the decision to reopen Rafah to allow aid to pass through was also taken after Israel was informed of Hamas’s intention to return four more bodies on Wednesday, a move not yet confirmed by the militant group.
The swap has seen the last 20 surviving hostages return home in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners freed from Israeli jails, as well as a halt in the fighting and bombardment.
So far, Hamas has handed back eight bodies, seven of which have been identified. The remains of 20 others remain in Gaza, and there is domestic pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to tie aid to the fate of the bodies. AFP
US Supreme Court to hear pivotal minority rights
WASHINGTON, DC – The US Supreme Court hears a case involving Black voters on Wednesday (Thursday Manila time) that could have lasting repercussions on whether Democrats or Republicans control the House of Representatives.
The case touching on the thorny issues of race and politics is a challenge to a congressional map adopted by the Louisiana state legislature creating a second Black majority district.
The conservative-dominated top court actually heard the case last term, but in an unusual move it decided not to issue a ruling and scheduled it for re-argument during the current session.
African-Americans tend to overwhelmingly vote Democratic and they make up one-third of the population of Louisiana, which has six congressional districts.
Following the 2020 census, Louisiana created a new congressional map that included only one Black majority district instead of the previous two.
The American Civil Liberties Union and others filed suit claiming the new map diluted Black voting power and violated the Voting Rights Act, which was passed during the civil rights movement in 1965 to remedy historic racial discrimination.
The Louisiana legislature released a new map last year with two Black majority districts that was met with the legal challenge from a group of “non AfricanAmerican” voters. It has now reached the Supreme Court, where conservatives hold a 6-3 majority. The opponents of the redrawn map argue that using race to design congressional districts is racial gerrymandering prohibited by the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution. AFP
Australia police seize drugs, guns in raid linked to ‘kill team’
YDNEY – Australian police said Wednesday they had seized drugs worth $170 million and guns in a raid on a group likely linked to an attempted organized crime hit near a Sydney daycare facility last week.
New South Wales police last week said they had foiled an attempted murder by a so-called “kill team” and arrested three men involved.
AID TRUCKS. People watch as vehicles transporting the bodies of four hostages handed over following a ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal between Israel and Palestinian factions in Gaza arrive at the National Center for Forensic Medicine in Tel Aviv on Wednesday. The Israeli military said the Red Cross was on its way to collect the remains of several hostages held by Palestinian militant groups in Gaza. Under the agreement brokered by US President Donald Trump, Hamas was due to hand over all hostages, both living and dead, within 72 hours of the truce coming into effect on Friday. AFP
Tested by Russia, NATO to strengthen defenses
BRUSSELS – NATO defense ministers will look Wednesday at shoring up the alliance’s ability to counter Russian air incursions, as fears grow that Moscow is testing the West in a grey zone between war and peace. Focus will also be on bolstering support for Ukraine as US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth joins his 31 NATO counterparts with his boss, President Donald Trump, mulling the supply of long-range missiles to Kyiv.
The gathering in Brussels comes after Moscow rattled NATO with a series of high-profile airspace violations in Poland and Estonia that fueled fears of conflict
spilling over its border.
Those were followed up by a spate of mysterious drones that disrupted airports and flew close to military sites in a string of countries.
All this has added fuel to concerns that Russia is pushing the boundaries and seeking to probe NATO’s reaction.
“In more and more ways, we are in a long-term and intensified conflict with Russia,” a Western official said.
NATO ministers are set to train their sights on efforts to plug gaps in the alliance’s eastern flank after it had to use costly missiles to down Russian drones in Poland.
“We are doing what we trained for, and
it works, but we need to do more,” NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said. NATO has launched a new mission and beefed up its forces following the incidents, but some countries close to Russia are asking for a more robust response.
Diplomats say the alliance is looking to fine tune its rules of engagement for dealing with Russian incursions and iron out different approaches between member states.
NATO is at the same time seeking to speed up work on better developing antidrone capabilities and incorporating the sort of low-cost technology Ukraine is using into its own defenses. AFP
And on Wednesday, police said they had taken possession of some 400 kilograms (880 pounds) of drugs in a major bust targeting a transnational criminal syndicate they said was likely linked to that foiled hit.
Detectives found vacuum-sealed bricks of methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin stuffed inside duffel bags and stashed at Sydney safe houses. They estimated the haul had a street value of Aus$260 million ($170 million). Police said the raids were part of a broader operation to dismantle a “transnational network believed to be run out of Southeast Asia.” Organized Crime Squad Commander Peter Faux told local media the syndicate
SURGE IN ATTACKS. Pakistani paramedics treat an injured victim – among dozens wounded and 15 killed – from the PakistanAfghanistan border unrest, in Chaman on Wednesday. All businesses in the area are closed and many residents have fled, an AFP correspondent reported. The renewed violence comes as tensions, fueled by security issues, flare between the neighboring countries. Islamabad has accused Afghanistan of harboring militant groups led by the Pakistani Taliban Tehreek-e-Taliban, a claim Kabul denies. AFP
Afghan officials say 15 civilians killed in Pakistan border clashes
SPIN BOLDAK, Afghanistan – Fifteen civilians were killed and dozens wounded in fresh clashes on the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, Afghan officials told AFP on Wednesday.
Violence between the two neighbors has flared since explosions in Afghanistan last week, including two in the capital Kabul, that were blamed on Pakistan. In retaliation, the Taliban government launched an offensive along parts of its southern border, prompting Islamabad to vow a strong response of its own.
Dozens of casualties were then reported by both sides over the weekend, and the deadly clashes resumed at dawn on Wednesday.
Ali Mohammad Haqmal, spokesman for the local information department in the Spin Boldak region, said 15 civilians were killed by mortar fire. The death toll was confirmed to AFP by Abdul Jan Barak, an official at the Spin Boldak district hospital, who said more than 80 women and children had been wounded. Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid accused Pakistani forces of “once again” carrying out attacks “with light and heavy weapons” in the district. Mujahid said in a statement that 12 civilians were killed and 100 others injured. The statement did not mention any casualties among security forces. AFP
in April of a Sydney mother over her husband’s alleged connections to a Vietnamese-linked organised crime network. AFP
Seoul: 1,000 working in scam centers
SEOUL – About 1,000 South Koreans are believed to be working in online scam operations in Cambodia, Seoul said Wednesday, with the country shaken by the torture and killing of a college student.
South Korea will send a special team to the Southeast Asian country later on Wednesday to discuss cases of fake jobs and scam centers involved in kidnapping dozens of its nationals.
“It is believed that around 200,000 people of various nationalities are working in Cambodia’s scam industry, which targets victims worldwide, including in South Korea,” National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac told reporters.
“A considerable number of South Koreans are also thought to be employed there. While the exact figure is difficult to verify, domestic authorities generally estimate the number at around 1,000.” Seoul has said 63 South Koreans were believed to have been detained by authorities in Cambodia, who were among 80 reported missing. The government was “committed to bringing all South Korean nationals back home”, Wi said. AFP
Greece to approve disputed workday reform
ATHENS – Greece’s parliament Wednesday was to approve a reform allowing workers to work 13-hour days under exceptional circumstances, drawing fire from unions and opposition parties. The new law is expected to be passed by parliament, where the ruling conservatives have 156 MPs in the 300-seat chamber.
Unions have staged two general strikes against the reform this month, the latest of them on Tuesday.
The government insists that the 13hour workday is optional, only affects the private sector, and can only be applied up to 37 days a year.
“It requires an employee’s consent,” Labor Minister Niki Kerameus told Skai TV on Tuesday. The minister has said she has received, and rejected, collective agreement requests proposing even longer hours. AFP
Sri Lanka arrests most-wanted woman COLOMBO – Sri Lanka’s most-wanted woman, who is accused of taking part in the brazen courtroom murder of a suspected top drug dealer, has been arrested in Nepal, police said. Ishara Sewwandi, 25, is accused of having disguised herself as a lawyer in order to smuggle a revolver inside a hollowedout copy of the Criminal Procedure Code into court in Colombo in February.
An accomplice, also dressed as a lawyer, was accused of then shooting dead Ganemulle Sanjeewa, who was on trial for drug-trafficking offenses. The accomplice was arrested soon after the shooting. Sewwandi, arrested along with five others in Nepal this week, will be extradited to face murder charges at home, police spokesman F. U. Wootler said.
“We received support from Interpol to locate them, and IT and intelligence support and operational assistance from the Nepali police,” Wootler told AFP. AFP
SPORTS
Zaragosa on fire again, grabs control of ICTSI Del Monte golf
BUKIDNON—A confident
Rupert Zaragosa surged to the top with a sizzling 64, homegrown contenders found their groove, and an unheralded champion continued to punch above his weight – all setting the stage for a chaotic showdown in the final two rounds of the ICTSI Del Monte Championship.
At the halfway mark of the P3.5 million sixth leg of the Philippine Golf Tour at the Del Monte Golf Club here Wednesday, Zaragosa took command with a two-shot lead at 12-under 132, continuing his scorching form following a dominant win in Negros Occidental last month.
“Compared to yesterday, my irons clicked, giving me several birdie opportunities,” said Zaragosa, who torched the course with eight birdies, including back-to-back conversions inside eight feet to cap both nines with 32s.
He shrugged off a birdie-bogey start with four birdies in seven holes at the back, then stayed sharp at the front, birdieing Nos. 2, 6, 8 and 9 in a masterclass of control and confidence.
Still, Zaragosa, whose eight-under card matched the course record set by Clyde Mondilla during his 2023 title win, isn’t looking too far ahead.
“Nasa likod ko si kuya Reymon, I’m sure kabisado niya ang course,” he said of local ace Reymon Jaraula. “Pero hindi ko na lang iintindihin ang laro ng iba. I will just focus on my own for the next two days.” Indeed, Del Monte’s own are lurking. Jaraula rediscovered his putting stroke and fired a flawless 66, climbing to solo second at 10-under 134. The soft-spoken Bukidnon native, who narrowly lost here to Mondilla, is quietly plotting a breakthrough win on home soil.
“Kahapon nag-struggle sa putting, ngayon nagclick,” said Jaraula. “Focus lang sa laro bukas at kung anong resulta, tanggapin.”
Jaraula’s round was built on precision – six birdies inside six feet and clutch par saves under calm conditions. “Importante na pamilyar ka dito sa course na ‘to. Mas maganda kung mananalo ako kasi dito ako nag-umpisa,” he added.
Right behind him is Michael Bibat, who slipped from the lead with a 71 but birdied his final hole to tie Arnold Villacencio at 136.
Cabañero
A surprise winner of the Match Play Finals at The Country Club last year, Villacencio remains a wildcard in the hunt. While a second-round 69 kept him in contention, the gritty journeyman knows the task ahead is immense.
“Siguro pag dalawang 68s, may chance na manalo,” he said, still battling putting issues. “Mahirap ang course, sobrang kitid. Bahala na ang Diyos.”
Mondilla, the former Philippine Open titlist, also finally found his rhythm with the irons, producing a six-under round that included a clutch eagle-3 on the par-5 18th.
“Medyo nag-stable na ang irons. May inadjust ako at nag-work,” said Mondilla, who had struggled in the first round with five bogeys.
Despite the improved ball-striking, he admits his putting still needs work. “I missed at least six birdie chances inside 7 feet. Pero at least nabawi sa last hole.”
After a 320-yard blast off the 18th tee, he struck a 5-iron to within three feet and drained the eagle putt to close at 137, catching Jay Bayron (69), Elee Bisera (71), Yudai Nakakuki (68), Kuresh Samanodi (69), and two-leg winner Keanu Jahns (69) at fifth.
Unbeaten High Speed Hitters, Titans collide
PLDT faces Choco Mucho today
(Thursday) in a marquee matchup in the PVL Reinforced Conference, headlining another action-packed triple-header in Pool A play at the Araneta Coliseum.
Touted as a duel of league powerhouses, the showdown is expected to rival – or even eclipse – the intensity and quality of play of last Tuesday’s Creamline-Petro Gazz classic.
The High Speed Hitters are coming off a dominant sweep of Capital1 Solar Spikers in a rare Monday game, launching their campaign for a third consecutive PVL championship. But beyond the title chase, PLDT is also looking to stretch its incredible win streak to 15 matches, a run dating back to their PVL On Tour and Invitational title victories.
Despite the emphatic win, head coach Rald Ricafort emphasized that the team is still a work in progress.
“Marami pa kaming kailangang ayusin,” said Ricafort, referring especially to Russian import Anastasiia Bavykina.
“Nag-a-align pa siya sa team. Yung mga kulang namin, siya ang nagpupuno. Hopefully, with chemistry, mas makapag-gel kami.”
Cohesion will indeed be key for PLDT as it duels a confident Choco Mucho side that proved its mettle in a four-set stunner over Cignal – despite playing without American import Anyse Smith, who is still awaiting her special work permit.
Led by Maddie Madayag and Isa Molde, the Flying Titans leaned on their local core to pull off the win, showing depth and resilience.
Coach Dante Alinsunurin praised his team’s effort and unity.
posts triple-double as Tiger Cubs stun FEU-Diliman
ROWIE Cabañero registered a tripledouble as University of Santo Tomas snapped Far Eastern University-Diliman’s three-game winning streak, 92-82, in the UAAP Season 88 Junior High School Basketball Tournament on Wednesday morning at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay. The victory also forged a four-way tie for second place.
With Prince Cariño sidelined due to illness—he had been averaging 22.8 points, 12.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 1.0 blocks per game through five outings—the Tiger Cubs leaned on Cabañero’s all-around brilliance. The 5-foot-6 guard from Mahaplag, Leyte finished with 17 points on 6-of-8 shooting, 10 rebounds, 10 assists, and two steals to secure UST’s second straight win.
Earlier, University of the East’s Zion Aguilar almost achieved the same feat as well, tallying 23 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists, sparking their 89-66 rout of De La Salle-Zobel to return to the win column.
UST’s and UE’s victories created a four-way tie for second with Ad -
amson University, and FEU-D, all holding 4-2 records.
National University Nazareth School remains atop the standings with a perfect 6-0 slate.
Cabañero’s triple-double marked the season’s second and the fifth overall since the tournament’s
Season 86 debut, following Clark Khobuntin’s 17 points, 12 rebounds, 11 assists, three steals, and one block in NU Nazareth School’s 92-83 victory over Adamson last Wednesday, October 15, also at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
“Rinemind ko sa kanila kanina nung sinabi na wala yung Cariño, sinamantala namin habang wala yung Cariño. Kailangan namin talunin talaga sila for positioning sa standings. Swerte kami na wala yung top scorer nila,” UST head coach Noli Mejos said.
Other notable contributions for UST included Jubilado, who tallied a 24-point, 10-rebound doubledouble, CJ Tabbuga, who scored all 18 of his points in the first half along with four rebounds and two steals, and Gab Castro, who added 11 points, six assists, five rebounds, and two blocks.
After a disappointing overtime loss to Adamson University last Saturday, Aguilar bounced back in spectacular fashion, scoring 18 of his 23 points in the fourth quarter on 6-of-9 threepoint shooting.
Lady Archers halt losing streak with win over UE
DE LA SALLE University earned a breakthrough win in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Tournament, downing a winless University of the East, 73-62, on Wednesday afternoon at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Determined to snap a six-game losing streak dating back to the second round of Season 87, the Lady Archers — even without Nigerian foreign student-athlete Nofisat Jimoh — showed composure and resilience in the clutch. Kyla Sunga, Kyla Go, and Xyla Lubrico led the charge, helping La Salle overcome the Lady Warriors’ valiant stand in the payoff period. With the morale-boosting victory, La Salle improved to a 1-4 win-loss record, securing their first UAAP women’s basketball win since a second-round Season 87 triumph over
the University of the Philippines on November 10, 2024. Coach Cholo Villanueva, currently the longest-tenured mentor in the league, emphasized patience in the Lady Archers’ rebuilding process.
“For us, it’s a rebuilding year. We lost about seven starters and players in the rotation, so our experience is the best teacher for us. Coming off [four] losses, we just found our mistakes and we just applied it today in this game,” Villanueva said, noting the departures of Lee Sario, Luisa San Juan, and Bernice Paraiso over the offseason.
“It’s a good thing na we started strong, we scored 34 points nung first quarter, mainly because of creating turnovers. I think what lacked on that fourth quarter was the zone defense na ginawa ng UE. We’ll be watching film and seeing what kind of mistakes we made,” he added.
A three-pointer by Princess Delig and a Rachel Lacayanga inside shot cut the deficit to 49-39 in the early moments of the third quarter. La Salle then unleashed a decisive 17-6 run — highlighted by two consecutive floaters from Pau Anastacio and Sofia Catalan — to enter the payoff period with a comfortable 66-45 lead.
UE slowly regained its bearings, relying on Roshelle Lumibao, Mhariko Gullim, and Lacayanga to open the fourth quarter with a 14-3 surge, capped by a Lacayanga three-pointer, trimming the deficit to seven at 69-62 with exactly two minutes remaining. However, La Salle’s strong performance through the first three quarters proved decisive. The Lady Archers weathered UE’s final push, sealing the win with clutch layups from Go and Lubrico to restore a 73-62 cushion with 37 seconds left on the clock.
PBA’S BEST. Winners in the recent 31st PBA Press Corps Awards Night led by Chot Reyes, recipient of the Baby Dalupan Coach of the Year plum, pose for a photo after the annual event at Novotel Manila. Business tycoon and sports patron Manny V. Pangilinan receives his plaque as recipient of the Danny Floro Executive of the Year from Bones Floro, grandson of the late Crispa team owner. With them is PBAPC President Vladi Eduarte of Abante Publishing. PBA Images
Rupert Zaragosa lights up Del Monte fairways with a sizzling 64. Manny Marcelo
Rowie Cabanero sustains all-gam brilliance in lifting UST past FEU-D.
DLSU’s Kyla Go attacks the defense of the UE Lady Warriors.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
NU secures, q’final berth twice-to-beat edge
in SSL
DEFENDING champion National University secured a quarterfinals twiceto-beat advantage after a swift, 25-22, 25-17, 25-17 crushing of Ateneo de Manila University in the 2025 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Preseason Unity Cup second round on Wednesday at the San Andres Gym in Manila.
The four-peat-seeking Lady Bulldogs flexed their firepower to overwhelm the struggling Blue Eagles despite a rusty opening set for a 3-0 win-loss finish in Pool E.
NU, still unbeaten after six games overall in the tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner and R and B Milk Tea, will face in the crossover quarters the fourth-ranked squad in Pool F. Chams Maaya and Josline Salazar spearheaded the Lady Bulldogs’ assault with 10 points each and combined for 14 of the team’s 37 attack points.
“Ang motivation naming lahat ay dapat maganda ang performance and all out kami kasi if ever may two days kaming pahinga. Pahinga talaga ang kailangan namin ngayon kaya all out talaga kami as a team ngayon,” Maaya said.
However, NU had a hard time shaking off Ateneo and even trailed, 21-22, in the opening set. Maaya took matters into her own hands as she uncorked three points in the Lady Bulldogs’ 4-0 closing rally to salvage the frame.
NU found its rhythm from there and sent the Blue Eagles reeling to a 0-2 card in the round and a four-game losing skid overall.
“Nu’ng first set medyo shaky kami. Nung (second) set na ‘yun doon talaga namin inaayos ‘yung mga pagkukulang namin,” Maaya said.
Ana Hermosura had eight points while Dona De Leon scored six for Ateneo, which gave NU 26 free points from its errors.
Meanwhile, Shaina Nitura returned after a two-game rest and dropped 22 points to power Adamson University past University of the Philippines,
Acuña ends medal drought, cops silver, bronze in Bangkok
By Peter Atencio
AMPARO “Ampao” Acuña finally returned to the podium after a two-year wait — and she did it in record-breaking fashion, capping her silver medal feat with a bronze finish in the 7th Southeast Asia Shooting Championships in Bangkok.
The 28-year-old national shooter bagged two medals, capturing a silver in the women’s 50-meter rifle prone and a bronze in the women’s 50-meter rifle 3-position team event.
“It’s been a while since I last won a medal,” said Acuna, who last reached the po-
to finally get back.”
Acuna’s silver medal performance was highlighted by a new Philippine record in the prone position event, tallying 617.3 points— just two points shy of the gold. She fell narrowly behind Thailand’s Plengsaengthong Ratchadaporn, who took the top spot with 619.1, while Indonesia’s Kusumawardani
Diaz settled for bronze at 614.
“I was a bit frustrated because the scores were so close. I almost got the gold but had four nines. If I had two more inner tens, I could’ve won it,” Acuna admitted. Her impressive showing came on the heels of a training stint in Germany earlier this year, which she credited for sharpening her focus and form.
Acuna also led the Philippine women’s 3-position rifle team — composed of Lovelyn Tan and Denise Basila — to a bronze finish with a combined score of 1661. Indonesia, led by Diaz, ruled the event with 1719, while Vietnam placed second with 1707. These results serve as a confidence boost for Acuna and the national squad as they gear up for the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in December.
Jose Rizal U buries San Sebastian for third win in NCAA men’s caging
JOSE Rizal University bounced back strong from a tough loss, smothering San Sebastian College-Recoletos, 59-46, to notch its third win in the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball tournament on Wednesday at the San Juan Arena.
Coming off a defeat to College of St. Benilde last Sunday, coach Nani Epondulan’s Heavy Bombers responded with renewed energy and defensive grit to improve their record to 3-2.
“Nirereiterate ko lang sa players namin na maliliit na kami, so hindi puwedeng ma-outhustle kami,” said Epondulan. “Kung
merong mas gutom at mas aggressive, dapat kami ‘yon.”
Sean Salvador led the way for JRU with an explosive 22 points, while Justin Lozano added 11 in the wire-to-wire victory.
The Heavy Bombers’ trademark defense was in full display, holding the Golden Stags to just 46 points and preventing any San Sebastian player from scoring in double digits.
Jhuniel Dela Rama came closest for the Stags with nine points and 15 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to prevent them from slipping to 1-4 in the standings.
Avaricio clings to slim lead as Uy, Ababa close in at ICTSI Championship
CHANELLE Avaricio held on to a precarious one-shot lead despite a grinding even-par 72, as Daniella Uy and Sarah Ababa closed in with gutsy rounds to set up a thrilling three-way battle heading into the final round of the ICTSI Del Monte Championship here Wednesday. Avaricio, who lit up the course with a flawless 67 on Tuesday, struggled with her approach shots in Round 2, limiting her birdie chances and forcing her to lean on a sharp short game to salvage crucial pars.
“My driving was good, but I struggled with my second shots. I also had difficulties with my putting,” said Avaricio, after stringing together 18 pars in a gritty round that kept her on top at 139. Despite the challenges, the Forest Hills champion remains focused on staying present.
“I’ll just be in the moment, hoping for a great day tomorrow,” she said, emphasizing the mental aspect of competing under pressure. Still, she knows it could all come down to the final holes.
“Hopefully, the putts will drop,” Avaricio added, acknowledging the fine margins in play at the challenging Del Monte Golf Club.
Tempering expectations, she opted to keep her sights grounded.
“I’m not sure of my chances, but I’ll do my best,” she said.
Uy, taking a break from the Taiwan tour, opted for a conservative approach on the tight, tree-lined layout, carding a 71 highlighted by two birdies and a lone bogey. Her steady play placed her just a stroke back at 140, setting up a compelling duel with Avaricio.
“I’m not really thinking about scoring a repeat. I just want to focus on my game, trust the process and stay with my routine,” said Uy, downplaying her chances despite being the defending champion at Del Monte.
She also stressed the need to block out distractions.
“I’ll try not to get too distracted,” she added, keeping her eyes firmly on the task at hand.
Uy credited her rivals for their deft touch around the greens, something she hopes to replicate.
“This gets us locked in as we prepare for the SEA Games,” said Acuna, who competes under the Atletang Ayala program.
The Philippines capped the Bangkok meet with three medals, as Carlos Deniel Valdez contributed another silver in the men’s 50-meter pistol event.
Acuna’s last podium finish came in 2023 at the Asian Rifle/Pistol Shooting Cup in Jakarta, where she and Tokyo Olympian Jayson Valdez secured a bronze in the mixed 10-meter air rifle event.
With her return to form, Acuna is once again proving she remains one of the country’s most reliable sharpshooters — and a strong medal hopeful for the upcoming SEA Games.
NATIONAL University survived a gritty challenge from University of Santo Tomas, 4-1, to remain undefeated in three ties in the ongoing qualifying round of the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Badminton tournament on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall in Malate, Manila. The defending champions shook off a setback in the second singles match against the Golden Shuttlers, with MJ Perez making amends and pairing up with reigning MVP Lanz Zafra to secure the decisive win in the second doubles rubber. Perez and Zafra dismantled Ron Galve and Bien Miraflor, 21-13, 21-12, giving an undermanned NU squad a crucial victory ahead of their clash with fellow title contenders, University of the Philippines.
“Ok naman naging performance nila kahit may mga natalo ngayon. Wala namang perfect game, so talagang you will win some, and you will lose some. Bumawi na lang next time,” said longtime head coach Jaime Llanes. “Pero so far, OK naman ako sa nagiging performance ng team.”
(“I’m happy with their performance despite suffering some losses. It will not always be perfect; you will win some, and you will lose some. You just need to bounce back next time. But so far, I’m content with how they’re playing.”)
“At the start pa lang sinabi ko naman this will be a difficult season for us kasi nga marami rin namang magagaling sa ibang schools. Heading do’n sa laban against UP and Ateneo, gusto ko pang makita na magpush
The Philippine women’s 50-meter 3-position Ri e Team that won the bronze in the Southeast Asia Shooting Championships in Bangkok. From left to right- Venus Tan, Amparo Acuña and Denise Basila, and coach Julius Valdez).
Chanelle Avaricio dishes out another near- awless performance.
JRU’s Sean Salvador weaves his way past an opposing player.
WHAT’S INSIDE?
PH cash remittances up 3.2% to $2.98b in August
By Thony Rose Lesaca
IMF trims PH growth outlook amid challenges
THE International Monetary Fund (IMF) has trimmed its growth forecast for the Philippines for this year and next, aligning with a slower outlook for the global economy. The IMF, in its latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) released Tuesday, now expects the Philippines’ gross domestic product (GDP) to grow by 5.4 percent in 2025, a slight deceleration from its July projection of 5.5 percent. It also projects the country’s GDP to expand at a slower pace of 5.7 percent in 2026, down from its previous July outlook of 5.9 percent. Growth is projected to pick up to 6.0 percent by 2030. The IMF also expects inflation in the Philippines to average 1.6 percent in 2025 and 2.6 percent in 2026. The current account balance is projected to have a deficit of 3.8 percent of the Philippine gross domestic product in 2025 and a deficit of 3.5 percent of GDP in 2026. Unemployment is seen reaching 3.9 percent in both 2025 and 2026. The IMF said the global economy is adjusting to a landscape reshaped by new policy measures. While some extremes of higher tariffs were tempered by subsequent deals and resets, the overall environment remains volatile, and temporary factors that supported activity in the first half of 2025—such as front-loading—are fading.
FILM FESTIVAL. Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) Administrator and chief executive Hussein Pangandaman (center), together with (from left) Percival Peralta from the Office of the Administrator, deputy administrator for support services Malou Herrera, deputy administrator for operations Michael Angelo Paderanga and Bataan board member Angel Sunga, flashes an AFAB’s sign at the opening of the exhibit featuring the film entries of the AFAB Film Festival Premiere Night and Film Judging on Oct. 14, 2025 at AFAB Auditorium in Mariveles, Bataan. Joseph Muego
Cash remittances from overseas Filipinos (OF) rose 3.2 percent to $2.98 billion in August 2025 from $2.89 billion in August 2024, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Wednesday.
The increase was fueled by higher inflows from both land-based and sea-based workers, the BSP said in a statement.
Data showed that land-based OFs accounted for $2.35 billion, up 3.0 percent year-on-year, while seabased OFs contributed $626 million, representing a 3.8-percent increase.
banks and informal channels as well as remittances in kind, by 3.2 percent to $3.31 billion in August 2025 from $3.20 billion in August 2024.
Eight-month personal remittances increased 3.1 percent to $25.51 billion this year from $24.74 billion last year.
The United States remained the top source of remittances to the Philippines from January to August, followed by Singapore and Saudi Arabia.
The increase in cash remittances also boosted personal remittances, which include cash sent through
Eight-month cash remittances also grew by 3.1 percent to $22.91 billion in 2025 period from $22.22 in the same period of 2024.
GUIDE TO SUCCESS.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Christina Roque, together with DITO Telecom president Eric Alberto and DITO chief revenue officer Adel Tamano, lead the launch of DITO BizBayan, a dedicated digital platform for MSMEs at the Medusa Supper Club at The Palace in Bonifacio Globa City on Oct. 15, 2025. The event highlighted DITO’s robust suite of solutions under its ‘Gabay sa Tagumpay’ (Guide to Success) promise. The launch positioned DITO BizBayan as a trusted partner for entrepreneurs, offering reliable connectivity, innovative tools and greater digital visibility for business growth. Norman Cruz
By Othel V. Campos
Robert Dan Roces, chief economist at SM Investments Corp., said the 3.2-percent annual increase in cash remittances in August indicates a modest pick-up relative to the recorded 3.0-percent growth in July.
“This suggests that remittance flows have some resilience despite global headwinds, and reflects, in part, a lower comparative base or mild fluctuations in monthly flows,” said Roces.
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) said Wednesday the Philippines will refrain from importing sugar until the milling season concludes by May or June 2026 to stabilize prices and reassure local farmers.
The commitment followed a meeting between the DA and the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) to address concerns over declining raw sugar prices during the first sugar bidding in Negros Occidental on Oct. 9, 2025. The bidding, one of the weekly sales held during the 38week harvest season, saw some major traders hold off on purchases.
“Let us be clear, there is, and never
was, any talk of an importation program for crop year 2025-2026 until we finish significant milling, have firm production figures and ensure any imports would only be classified as C or reserve sugar,” DA and SRA officials said in a statement.
Market uncertainty, partly triggered by conflicting statements from various farmer groups, was revealed in initial consultations with traders, prompting the government to clarify that no importation programs are ongoing or planned for Crop Year 2025–2026.
To further ensure market stability, the officials also agreed to maintain a two-month buffer stock of refined sugar. Any potential future imports,
By Jenniffer B. Austria
if deemed necessary, will be strictly classified as reserve (C) sugar and will not enter the domestic market directly.
“This assures our farmers that the current administration prioritizes their welfare. It’s a welcome development, and we hope this stabilizes prices now that speculation has been addressed,” said sugar farmer representative Dave Sanson.
The sugar industry has seen continued growth since 2022, with planted areas expanding from 380,000 hectares to 409,000 hectares this year. Farmgate prices have remained stable, encouraging more farmers to cultivate sugarcane, and retail prices have also held steady.
Luzon and was designed to serve as a landmark for both residents and tourists.
“As the surfing capital of the region, La Union deserves a retail center that reflects its vibrant lifestyle and rich culture,” Lim said. One of the highlights of SM City La Union is the Sandbox, a 1,348-square meter outdoor venue designed for sports tournaments, mini-concerts, yoga, Zumba and other community activities. It will also have a bike lane parallel to a manmade sandbar, giving cyclists a unique way to enjoy the open-air setting.
Gov’t advances nuclear energy push, prepares action plans
By Alena Mae S. Flores
THE Philippines has bolstered its nuclear energy development push with a whole-of-government workshop that finalized the action plans for the National Policy and Strategy on Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection.
The government, led by the Nuclear Energy Program InterAgency Committee (NEP-IAC), also began drafting action plans for the proposed National Policy and Strategy on Nuclear Security as the country prepares to have at least 4,800 megawatts of nuclear capacity by 2050 under the Philippine Energy Plan 2023-2050.
The activity, held from Oct. 13 to 17, 2025, in Clark, Pampanga, builds on earlier workshops and technical meetings organized by the NEP-IAC in September 2024 and April 2025.
The collaborative discussions and expert input seek to ensure the alignment of the action plans with national priorities and international obligations, promoting a coherent, sustainable and risk-informed approach to nuclear safety, radiation protection and nuclear security.
Department of Energy director Patrick Aquino, who heads the NEP-IAC’s Technical Secretariat, said these nuclear policies are not mere documents — “they are strategic instruments that embody our nation’s resolve to uphold the highest standards of safety, security, and sustainability in the peaceful uses of nuclear technology.”
“Through collaborative discussions, we aim to translate the guiding principles and strategic objectives of these policies into concrete, measurable and timebound actions,” Aquino said.
The workshop identified specific activities and initiatives under each strategy, defined success indicators, determined realistic timelines, assigned lead and supporting agencies, and estimated the required resources and budget for implementation.
Megawide gets 2 major contracts from Megaworld
By Jenniffer B. Austria
MEGAWIDE Construction Corp.
said Wednesday it secured two new multi-billion-peso contracts from property developer Megaworld Corp., moving the construction firm closer to its target of a P50-billion order book by year-end.
The contracts involve the construction of two residential towers, Uptown Modern in Uptown Bonifacio and One Portwood in Newport City, Megawide said in a disclosure to the stock exchange. The projects will include civil, structural, architectural and MEPF (mechanical, electrical, plumbing and
Cebu Pacific’s passengers grew 2.6% in September
CEBU Pacific (CEB) said Wednesday its passenger traffic grew 2.6 percent to 1.8 million in September 2025 on the back of higher capacity and sustained demand across its network.
The airline’s seat load factor (SLF) stood at 81.1 percent, slightly lower than 82.6 percent a year earlier, following a 4.4 percent expansion in total seats offered.
Domestic passengers went up by 1.3 percent year-on-year on 2.1 percent higher seats, resulting in a domestic SLF of 83.7 percent.
International passenger traffic, meanwhile, grew 6.7 percent yearon-year, with seat capacity up 11.2 percent, bringing international SLF down by 3.2 percentage points to 73.9 percent.
The airline said that in the first nine months of 2025, it flew nearly 20 million passengers, a 13.9-percent increase from 17.5 million in 2024.
Domestic passengers expanded by 12.7 percent to 14.9 million, while international passengers grew 17.7 percent to 5.1 million. SLF averaged 84.8 percent for the period, while overall capacity in seats was up by 14 percent to 23.5 million.
“September’s results reflected the typical lean travel period in the Philippines, which we use strategically to complete aircraft maintenance and prepare our fleet for the peak season,” said Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer Xander Lao. Darwin G. Amojelar
fire protection) components.
Megawide president and chief executive Edgar Saavedra said the company was “very excited to again work with Megaworld, who has been our long-standing client.”
“Our strategic partnership with Megawide has been built on a foundation of trust, and we applaud the consistent excellence they bring to every project,” said Megaworld head of operations Jennifer Romualdez.
Uptown Modern is positioned as a premium residential development in Bonifacio Global City. One Portwood, located across from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal, features world-
class amenities.
Megawide said it would use its first-world engineering and construction methods, including pre-cast technology and integrated construction solutions, which it has previously used on other Megaworld projects such as The Worldwide Plaza, Albany Luxury Suites, Newport Link, International Finance Tower and Gentry Manor.
The new projects are part of P20 billion in additional contracts Megawide is finalizing, which also include deals with Trans Aire Development Holdings Corp. (a subsidiary of San Miguel Corp.), DoubleDragon, 8990 Holdings, Landers and Citicore Power Inc.
DOF eyes working group to enhance PH investments
By Darwin G. Amojelar
DEPARTMENT of Finance (DOF) Secretary
Ralph Recto has ordered the creation of a multisectoral working group, led by the department and including private sector partners, to address tax and non-tax concerns through digital solutions to strengthen the country’s investment climate and generating more jobs.
The directive came during an Oct. 14, 2025 dialogue with the Makati Business Club (MBC), where business leaders discussed key policy concerns and offered insights to support the Marcos Jr. administration’s efforts to improve the investment environment.
The working group is intended to identify potential digital solutions to make tax assessment more transparent and efficient for stakeholders.
Recto affirmed the government’s commitment to work with the private sector in reviewing existing tax circulars.
Among the key issues raised was the implementation of Revenue Memorandum Circular (RMC) No. 5-2024, which clarifies the taxation of cross-border services involving nonresident foreign corporations.
Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr.
By Othel V. Campos
THE Philippines and the European Union (EU) are targeting the conclusion of their free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations between mid-2026 and 2027, a pact expected to unlock wider trade and investment opportunities and strengthen economic ties.
Both parties confirmed their commitment during a high-level dialogue on Oct. 14, 2025, in Makati City, involving Philippine government officials, the European Union–ASEAN Business Council (EUABC) and the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP).
The engagement, part of the EUABC’s Business Mission to the Philippines, focused on accelerating FTA discussions and enhancing
Haus Talk plans P2-b bond sale to fund land portfolio expansion
RESIDENTIAL developer Haus Talk Inc. (HTI) plans to raise up to P2 billion from its maiden issuance of fixed-rate bonds to fund the expansion of its land portfolio.
HTI’s board of directors approved the issuance and public offering of peso-denominated bonds, with a base amount of up to P1 billion and an oversubscription option for another P1 billion, the company said in disclosure to the stock exchange Wednesday. The bonds will be registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and listed with the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp. The board also approved the engagement of
the bond issuance. HTI’s management has been authorized to determine the final issue size, interest rate, offer price, tenors and other terms and conditions of the offering, as well as appoint other parties involved in the transaction.
The
cooperation to drive sustainable and inclusive regional growth.
Secretary Frederick Go, the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (SAPIEA), said the FTA would pave the way for a more competitive and future-ready Philippine economy. The EU-ABC mission lead Sharon Toh noted that the 2027 target aligns with the 50th anniversary of EU–ASEAN relations.
“The EU remains a vital trade and investment partner. We are inviting more European companies to invest and cooperate with us. The Philippine economy remains strong and resilient, and this is the perfect moment to deepen our partnership and create sustainable economic opportunities together,” Go said. Go also expressed appreciation for
the EU’s 800,000-euro humanitarian aid to communities affected by recent tropical cyclones and floods in the Philippines, underscoring Europe’s continued commitment beyond trade and investment cooperation.
Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque said the government is working to strengthen economic ties with Europe and make the Philippines a top choice for business expansion.
“To our partners in Europe, this is the moment to look to the Philippines with renewed confidence. We’re creating a smoother and smarter way of doing business—simplifying procedures, modernizing systems, and promoting cooperation in renewable energy, semiconductors, critical minerals, and green manufacturing,” she said.
agreed with Recto’s proposal for the MBC and the BIR to collaborate on proposed amendments to clarify key provisions of the RMC.
Recto assured business leaders that the government is intensifying its digitalization efforts across the board to eliminate corruption and increase efficiency in public service delivery, specifically encouraging the private sector’s participation in accelerating the DOF’s digital transformation program in the BIR, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr).
“We want to support the government in its quest to make this a very good business environment and investment destination,” said MBC executive director Rafael Ongpin.
“Whatever support you think we can provide—inputs, technology, we’d be more than happy to do that,” said MBC chairman Edgar Chua.
with
Attending the event (from left) Alfie Suarez, EastWest chief people, corporate services and sustainability officer; Jerry Ngo, EastWest chief executive; Lisa Skowron, senior director of LinkedIn Asia; and Bhavana Chauhan, LinkedIn Enterprise leader for the Philippines, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos. CENTER OF BUSINESS.
By Julie Ann Lope
SSamuel Uy leads by example in business and philanthropy
AMUEL Uy, president of Ford Tractor Philippines, Inc. and the Chinese Filipino Business Club, Inc. (CFBCI), exemplifies a kind of leadership that goes beyond the boardroom— one that touches the lives of farmers, entrepreneurs and scholars across the Philippines.
A certified public accountant, Uy began his career at SGV & Co. where he honed his skills for three years. He later took on the challenge of managing his family’s spare parts business in Manila.
Guided by his brother and mother, who encouraged him to be patient and to give his best to the company, Uy built strong relationships with suppliers and gradually grew the business.
Within six to seven years, he transformed Ford Tractor Philippines Inc. into a comprehensive provider of spare parts, eventually capable of assembling a complete agricultural tractor.
To further enhance the company’s capabilities, he brought in skilled mechanics from abroad.
Ford Tractor Philippines became a respected name in the agricultural industry, known not only for its quality products but also for its commitment to serving Filipino
farmers.
“It’s not only about making money, but about serving and helping deserving farmer beneficiaries,” Uy said.
Under his leadership, CFBCI provides a platform for members to connect, share expertise and explore new business opportunities.
“We encourage inter-trade, networking and collaboration among our 400 entrepreneur members,” he said.
CFBCI regularly organizes seminars and invites industry experts to share insights that empower members to grow their businesses and adapt to evolving market dynamics.
Recognizing the importance of holistic well-being, the organization also hosts health-related activities
Industry Inc.
FFCCCII leaders win Entrepreneur Awards
By Michael Wong Ho
such as the Oktober Health Fest, emphasizing that good health is the foundation of success.
Looking ahead, Uy envisions
CFBCI playing a leading role in promoting Filipino-Chinese cultural identity on a global scale.
He also cites the importance of engaging with international business communities, particularly in Asia, while remaining committed to serving the less fortunate and being a channel of blessings for the poor.
His dedication to community service extends beyond business. Uy is a passionate advocate for education and youth development, supporting scholars through the CFBCI’s Pagharap sa Pangarap program, the Pag-asa ng Pamilya Scholarship Foundation and his own family’s
scholarship initiatives.
interview with Manila Standard.
These programs collectively support hundreds of students, not only providing financial assistance but also offering mentorship, values formation and financial literacy training.
Uy believes in developing both the intellectual quotient (IQ) and emotional quotient (EQ) of scholars. They are required to attend values formation sessions that teach essential life skills and instill a strong sense of purpose.
“I tell our scholars, grades will get you a job, but it’s your character that will keep you there,” he said.
Uy’s values are deeply rooted in his Filipino-Chinese heritage, emphasizing helpfulness, honesty and humility. Growing up in Isabela, he was
trained to assist all customers, big or small, believing that even a single fish hook could provide food and bring joy to fishermen.
Honesty guides his personal and professional life, and he leads with humility, valuing teamwork.
He appreciates the time and efforts of all members, recognizing their dedication to serving CFBCI, and maintains a respectful, collaborative approach during meetings.
Uy is also a strong advocate for unity within the Filipino-Chinese community. He believes that collaboration, not competition, is key to achieving shared goals.
“A very beautiful development is the Filipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation, where we work together to help those in need. It’s so effective- it covers almost the whole Philippines. Our presence is felt from Tuguegarao to Mindanao,” he said.
Uy’s personal motto, “lead by example,” reflects his commitment to living his values and inspiring others to do the same.
“We have almost 200 employees. To get them to follow our guidelines and to treat the company like a family, I must walk the talk. I live simply. I visit and make time for them,” he said.
Uy draws inspiration from figures like Brother Bo Sanchez and Rey Ortega, who have dedicated their lives to serving others.
He stresses the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and mentoring the next generation.
To aspiring young entrepreneurs, Uy offers this advice:
“Gain experience, be persistent in the face of challenges and build your business slowly but surely.”
Fil-Chi community extends relief to Tondo fire victims
THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) and the Filipino At Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation extended assistance to residents affected by a recent fire in Happy Land Subdivision, Barangay 105, Road 10, Tondo, Manila.
The organizations distributed 2,200 bags of rice to fire victims in coordination with local officials. Each bag contained 5 kilograms of rice.
FFCCCII vice president Antonio Cosing, along with FFCCCII staff and representatives from the Filipino At Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation, personally visited the disaster site and turned over the donations to Manila First District Councilor Numero Lim on Oct. 4.
The mid-September blaze injured four people, destroyed four buildings and displaced around 1,000 residents from 500 families. The total damage was estimated at P1.5 million. Michael Wong Ho
TECO honors the late Domingo Lee for strengthening Taipei-PH ties
More than 700 business leaders from ASEAN countries as well as Hong Kong and China attended the event.
Malaysia’s Speaker of the House of Representatives Tuan Yang di-Pertua and several government ministers attended the event.
Since its founding, FFCCCII has been committed to uniting FilipinoChinese businessmen, protecting their legal rights, promoting economic and trade cooperation and supporting social welfare programs.
FEDERATION of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) executive vice president Jeffrey Ng and vice president David Chua received the ASEAN Outstanding Entrepreneur Award during the first ASEAN Overseas Chinese Elites Summit on Oct. 6 to 7 at One World Hotel in Malaysia. The award recognizes entrepreneurs with outstanding achievements in education, enterprise and social responsibility. The summit focused on economic cooperation, enterprise inheritance, innovation and sustainable development.
THE Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines held a solemn ceremony to honor the late Ambassador Domingo Lee for his lifelong dedication to fostering strong relations between Taiwan and the Philippines on Oct. 6, 2025 at Century Seafood Restaurant in Manila.
TECO Representative Wallace Minn-Gan Chow presented the presidential commendation to Rexford Lee, son of Ambassador Lee. Chow praised Lee’s significant contributions to restoring and enhancing Taiwan–Philippines ties, especially following the diplomatic break in 1979.
His efforts included reestablishing air links and defending Taiwan’s dignity. Lee also served as an adviser to former Philippine President Corazon Aquino and was instrumental in promoting the Philippines–Taiwan Friendship Act within Congress. He was twice president of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), advocating for community unity and Mandarin language education. His lifetime of service remains an inspiration to the community and advocates of international friendship.
Julie Ann Lope
Franchise event cites opportunities, success strategies
THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) Trade and Industry Committee held the Franchise Business Matching event on Oct. 11, 2025 at the Federation Building in Binondo, Manila.
FFCCCII president Victor Lim cited the significant role franchising has played in the country’s economic landscape over the past three decades.
“Franchising contributes as a powerful engine of growth in business and entrepreneurship,” he said.
He said the federation continues to champion its “Buy Pinoy” campaign, advocating for the patronage of Philippine-made products and supporting local
industries to generate employment and attract investments.
George Siy, chairman of the FFCCCII Trade and Industry Committee, said that franchising is a powerful and proven growth strategy that is lower risk and serves as a good training ground.
Siy encouraged attendees to consider entering the franchising industry to create more jobs and contribute positively to the local economy.
Chris Lim, president of U-Franchise Sales and Management Inc. and CEO of Francorp Philippines, provided guidance on choosing the right franchise. Julie Ann Lope
Samuel Uy, president of Ford Tractor Philippines Inc. and the Chinese Filipino Business Club Inc. (CFBCI), shares his insights in an
Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and
(FFCCCII) executive vice president Jeffrey Ng receives the ASEAN Outstanding Entrepreneur Award during the first ASEAN Overseas Chinese Elites Summit on Oct. 6 to 7 at One World Hotel in Malaysia.
The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) and the Filipino At Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation distribute 2,200 bags of rice to victims of a fire in Happy Land Subdivision, Barangay 105, Road 10, Tondo, Manila.
TECO Representative Wallace MinnGan Chow presents the presidential commendation to Rexford Lee, son of Ambassador Domingo Lee.
The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) Trade and Industry Committee holds the Franchise
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE
WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER
VALDEZ, Writer
Very Wang Nickie Wang
DIRECTOR Erik Matti , producer Dondon Monteverde , and Kapamilya actor Coco Martin have joined forces to produce two upcoming action films: Maghari and Maypagasa: The Battles of Andres Bonifacio
The collaboration between Martin’s CCM Productions and Monteverde and Matti’s Reality Entertainment was announced on Oct. 14. The projects are set for release in 2026 and 2027. On the Job: Maghari serves as a prequel to the first two On the Job films and will follow the story of Tatang, or Mario Maghari, played by Joel Torre in the original movie. Meanwhile, Maypagasa focus on the struggles of revolutionary hero Andres Bonifacio and explore the reasons behind his defeats in battle.
During the media launch, Martin shared that working with Matti and Monteverde had been a long-time dream.
“I waited a long time for this. I’ve always wanted to work with them,” he said in the vernacular.
The actor recalled watching Job and Buy Bust and hoping to be noticed by the team behind those films.
“I used to wait for their call. But it never came. I thought maybe I wasn’t enough yet,” Martin said in jest.
Monteverde and Martin first connected in August during the first death anniversary of Regal Entertainment matriarch
At the event, Monteverde asked help arrange a meeting with Martin to discuss possible collaborations.
When they finally met, ideas flowed easily, according to the primetime action star.
“They had other projects to pitch,” Martin said. “But while we were talking, I told them I’ve been waiting for their call because I’m such a big fan of Job and Buy Bust . Then Sir Dondon mentioned, ‘We have an OTJ project.’ Maybe he thought,
BRITISH singer-songwriting legend Sting finds the multiple genres and streaming platforms of the modern music scene “quite odd”, but still believes in the power of song to unite people.
In an interview with AFP, the 74-year-old with 17 Grammy Awards and sales of over 100 million albums also spoke about his worries about AI as a tool for repression, as well as politicians “whose idea is to separate us all”.
The former frontman of The Police was speaking in Paris ahead of the French debut of his partly biographical musical The Last Ship, which is set in his hometown of Wallsend in northeast England.
It tells the story of the decline of shipbuilding on the River Tyne and is intended as a tribute to the working-class area that Sting left to pursue his music career.
SHOWBIZ
Coco Martin teams up with Erik Matti, Dondon Monteverde for big-ticket projects
Martin also revealed that he had turned down previous offers to adapt Korean dramas for “I was offered to do adaptations of Korean dramas before, but I declined. I am simply not a
What I wanted was to be part of something made by Filipinos and something that we can export internationally that bears our identity as a country,” he explained.
Meanwhile, members of the showbiz press asked how big the projects were going to be, but Monteverde declined to reveal the budget for Maypagasa , though he shared that it would feature five major war scenes.
Martin also kept details about the cast under wraps but said the lineup would surprise audiences.
“Even from the casting stage, you should already feel curious to watch the film. We’re making sure this will feature combinations of actors you’ve never seen together before,” he said.
Why did you go back to your roots for this show?
My entire life has been about escaping from what was offered to me. At a certain point, I realised that what I was given as a child was very valuable: a community, a family, a town with a purpose, and that had been taken away.
My way of repaying the debt to my community was to tell a story of an industry that was shut down by the government, and the betrayal, but also to weave in a love story.
I also think it’s about many universal problems we face in society. Many communities are losing work because of technology, AI, and so I think it’s highly relevant to what’s going on politically.
It’s an act of resistance for people, and I think we need to resist what’s happening. So the play is a kind of political statement.
Can music and art be a form of resistance?
I think art is a machine for empathy, where we can see the world through other people’s eyes, you can step into someone else’s shoes and see their point of view. That is very valuable because there are politicians in the world at the moment whose idea is to separate us all, to say: ‘You belong to this club and you can’t come in here.’ That separation is not useful for society. It’s certainly not good for peace. Why do you place so much value on work?
Human beings need to do something with their hands. I’m very lucky. I use my hands every day to play the bass. I think human beings need to build things, to make things, to feel dignity, the sense of self. I’m lucky that I’m just enjoying myself. But it’s work. It’s hard work. But I would do it for nothing. I would do it for no money. Like a fish has to swim, I have to sing. AFP
one of the previous Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival winners that paved the way for this year’s record-breaking number of submissions
THE Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival has shortlisted 33 full-length film entries from a record 203 submissions by both emerging and established Filipino filmmakers.
From the shortlist, seven finalists will receive a production grant of P5 million each, the largest in Philippine film festival history.
“This has been the most competitive year of the Puregold CinePanalo yet as we drew a wide variety of both up-and-coming and veteran directors,” said Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, Puregold senior marketing manager and festival chair. “With the removal of genre and narrative restrictions, we received the boldest and most creative pool of applications.” Hayagan-Piedad added that the sharp increase in submissions shows how the festival has grown into a significant platform for local cinema.
“We received 203 applications this year, nearly double the 125 entries from our inaugural edition,” she said. “We are immensely grateful for the support of filmmakers, producers, and students who have entrusted their dream projects to us.”
The 33 shortlisted titles are: Ennui, Pasilyo, Gods and Thieves, Camarera, Apol of my AI, Multwoh Corolla Bayani with Minimum Wage And There Was Silence JPB7 Chester’s Eighth
Birthday Party, Stuck on You, Mono No Aware, Ang Lalakeng Lumuluha ng Perlas, SSS, NBI, PAG-IBIG, atbp, Aura, Blak Awt, All
Under a Piaya Moon, Sigrid Bernardo’s Pushcart Tales, and TM Malones’ Salum Submissions for the festival’s student shorts category remain open until Nov. 25 via tinyurl. com/PCPFFShorts. Inquiries may be sent
Coco Martin speaks about collaborating with Erik Matti and Dondon Monteverde for two upcoming action films On the Job: Maghari and Maypagasa: The Battles of Andres Bonifacio.
From left: Erik Matti, Coco Martin, and Dondon Monteverde announce their partnership for the films ‘On the Job: Maghari’ and ‘Maypagasa: The Battles of Andres Bonifacio’
LIFE & SHOWBIZ
FrenchiecelebratesDy singing career
for Bell’s Palsy patients
SINGER Frenchie Dy, best known for having won the national TV singing contest Star In A Million 20 years ago, is celebrating a personal milestone for a cause. She is having a concert where part of the proceeds will be donated to shoulder the needs of Bell’s Palsy patients.
That’s not a random cause. She herself bravely overcame the condition.
The concert, titled Here To Stay - Frenchie Dy 20th Anniversary Concert, is set to take place at the Music Museum in San Juan City next Friday, Oct. 24. It is described as a spectacle to bring together “fans, collaborators, and fellow artists for a night of music, memories, and magic.” Special guest performers include Ice Seguerra, Sheryn Regis, Ima Castro, OJ Mariano, and more.
Now a poster child for the condition named after Scottish surgeon Sir Charles Bell, Frenchie noted that the show is her way of acknowledging those who have made her feel loved throughout the years.
“This concert is a thank you to everyone who has been part of my
San Juan Medical Center
opens Wellness Hub with SM Foundation
THE San Juan Medical Center (SJMC), in partnership with SM Foundation and the local government of San Juan, opened its new Wellness Hub on Oct. 8, the first of its kind in a public hospital.
The facility aims to promote preventive healthcare and provide holistic services to patients, healthcare workers, and the surrounding community. It delivers care through a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, nutritionists, therapists, fitness coaches, and counselors.
Located within the hospital, the Wellness Hub offers an accessible and calming space apart from high-stress clinical areas while remaining close to medical services for referrals. It operates during regular hospital hours, with select services available after-hours, and accommodates both appointments and walk-in visits.
The facility includes dedicated spaces such as the Nursing Lounge, Changing Area, TeenThrive Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Lifestyle Medicine, Comprehensive Care Suite, Sight & Sound, Diagnostic Suite, and Meditation
journey—my fans, my family, and every person who believed in me,” she said.
While her Bell’s Palsy attack became an unfavorable part of her story, along with her apparent body figure concerns, nothing could overshadow what basically endeared her to audiences—her singing prowess, which makes her among the truly respected pure talents that came out of that reality TV and overnight singing sensation trend. She had deservingly earned the title “Power Diva.”
Bell’s Palsy is defined as a temporary paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face caused by inflammation or damage to the facial nerve.
News anchor Bernadette Sembrano interviewed Frenchie after battling the condition three
distinctly cathartic way.
Frenchie Dy, dubbed the ‘Power Diva,’ marks 20 years in music with a concert that celebrates her recovery from Bell’s Palsy
times.
“She still rises and proves she can still sing,” she said of the singer. The latter emphatically sang to her, and they could be seen embracing afterward.
While the donation to Bell’s Palsy patients would go a long way, the intangible objective of Frenchie’s show is to spread awareness and hope through the power of music. She reiterated that she is living proof that “this affliction can be treated.” Her celebrity has obviously strengthened the resolve of some of those facing this trouble.
On the same level as her cause, Frenchie strongly felt the need to celebrate her career and how she has battled the condition and endured bashers of her atypical songstress looks. She added, “Twenty years of music is something I celebrate not just for
Kinetics and Vitality (Gym).
The hub’s spacious rooms allow medical professionals to conduct health screenings, nutrition
counseling, stress management, fitness classes, mental health support, and patient education. Programs focus on prevention and wellness, supported by modern tools and community partnerships.
Through the project, SM Foundation supports SJMC’s goal to become a pioneer in green healthcare and contribute to the national health goals by 2030, which emphasize universal access to quality health services and the prevention and management of noncommunicable diseases.
To extend its support, SM Foundation also conducted a medical mission alongside the turnover, offering free ECG, X-ray, and blood screening services, as well as essential medicines. Patients requiring further treatment were referred to SJMC for continued care.
myself, but with all of you.”
Here To Stay - Frenchie Dy 20th Anniversary Concert is produced by Grand Glorious Productions, in cooperation with CLNjK Artist Management Inc., and will be directed by Alco Guerrero I had been informed that singer with guitar Neon will be performing in the show. He is the singer behind the recording of “Sana Kapiling Ka,” a Christmas ballad I wrote and originally titled “Hosanna Kapiling Ka” upon release. The Yuletide season has begun in the Philippines, so we can expect him to sing my song.
I’ve read, too, that there will be a number of romantic ballads to be rendered by Frenchie in her
Even with the absence of a major hit song attached to her name, Frenchie Dy’s career has endured partly because of what she represents— talents who may not look the part, or are even impaired by some health concerns but who sound too good not to notice and admire.
That she is celebrating the past two decades of her journey since her life-changing triumph captured on mainstream TV reflects the power of the voice that is enough to drown the noises that tried to keep it from being heard and appreciated. Frenchie is not just celebrating life and career. She is determined to keep her run going.
THE 8th edition of The Eddys (The Entertainment Editors’ Choice), held on July 20, took on a deeper meaning this year as the Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEED), the group behind the annual film awards, named the Little Ark Foundation as its sole beneficiary.
The partnership aligned the event with a cause supporting children battling life-threatening medical conditions.
“We are deeply grateful to SPEED and The Eddys for choosing Little Ark Foundation as this year’s beneficiary. Little Ark may be new, but our dream has always been big: to stand with every child and family fighting lifethreatening illness,” said Little Ark founder Butch Bustamante during the turnover of the donation check on Sept. 30 in Quezon City.
“They have not only provided financial help, but more importantly, they have given our patients and families a platform to share their struggles and stories with the world. For us, that recognition is hope itself,”
Bustamante added.
SPEED president Salve Asis praised Little Ark’s efforts to support children “not only with the care they need but also by giving them a safe place to heal and dream.”
“This year, The Eddys goes beyond recognizing cinematic excellence by standing with the children who bravely fight for their lives,” she said. The Little Ark Foundation provides holistic assistance to pediatric patients and their families, including housing for those undergoing treatment, transportation aid through its Hope in Transit program, and daily meal support.
The organization also organizes play activities for young patients and manages the Care Cart and Care Baskets initiatives, which provide comfort to children, caregivers, and hospital staff.
More information is available at littlearkfoundation.org or through Butch Bustamante at butch. bustamante@littlearkfoundation.org and +63 906 403 9569.
Ark Foundation founder Butch Bustamante (center) receives the donation check from SPEED president Salve Asis
The San Juan Medical Center Wellness Hub promotes preventive healthcare and holistic wellness in a public hospital setting
Spacious rooms inside the wellness hub provide areas for health screenings and counseling for both patients and
Touchbass Yugel Losorata
Singer Frenchie Dy (left) with ‘Toni Talks’ host Toni Gonzaga ahead of her 20th anniversary concert ‘Here To Stay,’ which will benefit Bell’s Palsy patients
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025
NICKIE WANG,
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, JASPER VALDEZ,
Actor turns personal struggles into purposeful business venture
By Jasper Valdez
AFTER years of portraying complex characters on screen, Christian Bables is now channeling that same passion into a new pursuit.
On Oct. 8 in Marikina City, the award-winning actor officially launched Wildskyn, marking his foray into entrepreneurship as a CEO.
Known for his emotional performances, Bables shared that the brand was born from years of struggling with acne and self-esteem issues.
“In an industry where perfection feels like a requirement, it’s easy to forget that flaws are normal,” he said during the launch event. “The textures on our skin should be celebrated. They’re proof that we’ve lived and overcome.”
Bables admitted that his skin journey took a toll on his confidence, especially under the scrutiny of cameras. He recalled countless nights staring at his reflection, comparing himself to others, and trying every product he could find.
“I tried everything—expensive, cheap, local, imported. But none of them worked the way I hoped,” he said. “So I told myself, if there’s nothing out there that works for me, I’ll make it myself.”
That realization became the foundation of Wildskyn, which he described as a “journey from insecurity to acceptance.” Developed over four years, the brand’s initial lineup features all-inone skincare essentials infused with ingredients such as niacinamide, tranexamic acid, and alpha arbutin, which aim to simplify daily routines while addressing different skin needs.
The collection includes Sun Siege (SPF 50+++ sunscreen), Radiance Beast (brightening bar), Mad Mousse (gentle cleanser), and Night Clash (night serum).
But for Bables, Wildskyn is about more than formulas and results.
“Confidence and healing don’t always come easy—sometimes they come wild,” he explained, referring to the inspiration behind the brand’s name. “It’s not about perfect skin, it’s about embracing your own.”
He also emphasized that he isn’t out to compete with other beauty brands. “Everyone has their own space in the market,” he said. “I just want to add opportunities for people to feel more confident.”
Bables called the launch a deeply personal milestone that mirrors his growth both as an artist and as an individual.
“This is a gift to myself,” he said. “I’ve learned to stop chasing perfection. Now, I want to help others see that what makes them different is what makes them beautiful.”
Wildskyn is now available exclusively on TikTok Shop.
Women who speak up
By Jasper Valdez
WHEN women gather to share stories of courage and purpose, something powerful happens. That spirit filled the halls of Enderun Atrium in Taguig City during the #UnstoppablePowHER: The Watsons Women’s Forum 2025.
Among the voices that resonated most was that of Attorney Star Elamparo, a lawyer who has spent decades breaking barriers in a field still shaped by old habits.
Looking back on her early years in law, she recalled walking into courtrooms dominated by men—judges, colleagues, even clients—and facing not just professional pressure but prejudice.
“When I was starting, I saw how maledominated the system
was,” she told Manila Standard Lifestyle “Sometimes the comments weren’t about my arguments but about my looks or what I was wearing.”
Instead of backing down, she used those moments as a turning point. “It’s unacceptable, but I realized that if no one speaks up, nothing changes,” she said. Over time, she found that strength comes from persistence and that true empowerment means refusing to be silenced.
That message echoed
throughout the forum, where women from different industries gathered to talk about purpose, health, and community. Each story underscored that empowerment can take many forms—whether
through advocacy, creativity, or compassion.
Elamparo also acknowledged that while laws now protect women from discrimination and harassment, the bigger challenge lies in changing mindsets.
“We have very good laws in effect,” she said. “But what we need is vigilance. Even if you’re not the victim, if you see something wrong, you have an obligation to speak up.”
Her honesty showed how empowerment begins with awareness and action. “What people think are harmless or normal can actually be acts of harassment,” she added. “Change doesn’t
Bea Alonzo promotes wellness through active living and nutrition
Bea Alonzo, now in her late 30s, has become more mindful of her health. As an active and outdoorsy person, she focuses on staying fit and maintaining proper nutrition as part of her daily routine.
With a busy schedule that includes acting, entrepreneurship, and frequent travels, Bea said she has learned the value of sustaining strength and energy through balanced habits.
“Staying strong and healthy isn’t just a goal; it is a
way of life,” she said. She incorporates workouts such as push-ups, squats, and planks into her routine and complements them with mindful eating and adequate rest. Her commitment to staying fit extends to exploring outdoor activities—such as skiing during a recent trip to Andorra, which helps her stay active and energized.
Health experts emphasize that good nutrition and regular exercise are essential for adults, particularly in maintaining bone strength, muscle mass, and immunity. Nutrient-rich foods and adequate hydration also play an important role in sustaining energy levels and cognitive function as the body changes with age.
Alonzo said she has grown more conscious of how her body
responds to different forms of exercise and nutrition.
“As I turn 38 this October, I become even more mindful of my health and my body, and I like challenging myself with different ways to maintain good health,” shared Bea, who is recently introduced as the newest face of Birch Tree Adult Boost, the flagship milk brand of Century Pacific Food Inc. shared. “I like doing workouts like push-ups, squats, planks, and other sporty activities, then I balance it with proper nutrition.”
Through her lifestyle, Bea points out how wellness is a lifelong process—one that combines movement, mindful eating, and a positive outlook to stay strong and productive in the years ahead.
happen overnight, but we have to be patient and keep being vigilant.” She also believes the fight for equality has extended to the digital space. “Whenever I see something misogynistic or anti-women on the internet, I don’t tolerate it,” she said. “It’s not about winning the argument—it’s about putting the argument out there and making even one or two people think.”
Elamparo’s story shows how empowerment begins with one voice—and how speaking up can spark the change others need to find their own.
Actor-turned-brand-CEO Christian Bables launches his skincare line Wildskyn, turning his personal skin struggles into a success story
From left: Ting Joson, Karen Ibasco, Lynn Pinugu, and Atty. Star Elamparo lead the discussion during the Watsons #UnstoppablePowHER Women’s Forum 2025
Actressentrepreneur Bea Alonzo advocates fitness
Watsons Marketing and Beauty category leaders join
Women’s Forum 2025
Star Elamparo shares her experiences as a lawyer who continues to challenge gender bias and inspire vigilance through her advocacy
Bea Alonzo enjoys skiing in Andorra, one of the outdoor activities that keep her active and energized