AFP rebukes Barzaga for misleading public
By Rex Espiritu, Vince Lopez, and Pot Chavez
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday castigated Cavite 4th District Rep. Kiko Barzaga for falsely claiming online that
President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. had threatened to remove the pensions of all military personnel.
In a statement, AFP Public Affairs Office Chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the post circulating on social media was “baseless, malicious, and
intended to mislead” the public. He emphasized that there has been no such directive, statement, or policy from President Marcos or any govern ment agency. “The AFP strongly condemns the
30 biz groups urge PBBM, ICI to act fast
Seek decisive action vs. corruption for real justice
By Othel V. Campos
THIRTY-FOUR major industry associations, representing a broad spectrum of businesses, have issued a joint resolution appealing to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to take swift and decisive action against what they described as “historic, massive, and unprecedented corruption” in flood control and infrastructure projects.
The organizations, which include the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Makati Business Club (MBC), and Management As-
sociation of the Philippines (MAP), called on the President to restore public trust and protect national security by immediately addressing reports of ghost projects, substandard works, and inflated contracts.
“Trillions of pesos supplied and intended to protect our communities from disasters have been squandered. This is more than financial loss. It is a fatal breach of public trust that leaves our people vulnerable and outraged,”
Rescue workers, left photo, retrieve the
two children aged
Seven killed as storm ‘Ramil’ sweeps
the MGI
Filipina beauties win titles in Bangkok, KL
Philippines once again made its mark on the international pageant stage after two Filipina beauty queens brought
Survey: DPWH, Congress, COA trust ratings sharply drop
By Katrina Manubay
THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), along with Congress and other government line agencies, suf-
fered drastic declines in approval and trust ratings as shown in the latest popularity survey by PUBLICUS Asia.
The Pahayag poll, conducted Sept. 23 to 30, indicated that the DPWH had the worst
setback from 33 percent during the Second Quarter to a mere 12 percent in the Third Quarter, basically on account of the flood control projects scandal and questionable
Comelec flags 21 contractors in 2025 polls
THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Sunday said 21 contractors were believed to have donated to eight candidates’ campaign funds for the May 12, 2025 midterm elections.
Comelec Chairman George Garcia said the findings were based on the
42,000 statements of contributions and expenditures (SOCEs) screened by their legal department.
“Until last Friday, we saw 21 contractors who gave to the politicians. We said 21, but it doesn’t mean 21 candidates also. At least eight candidates were involved,” Garcia told
ABS-CBN News.
“For instance, several contractors gave to a single candidate,” he added. Garcia also said their probe would be finished in less than two weeks as they await the confirmation of the Department of Public Works and
WINNERS ALL. Emma Tiglao of Pampanga, left, is crowned Miss Grand International 2025 by reigning queen CJ Opiaza at
pride to the country over the weekend. Emma Tiglao of Pampanga was crowned Miss Grand International 2025 at the MGI Hall in Bangkok, Thailand on October 18.
RAMIL’S DELUGE.
bodies of a family of five, including
two and 11, who were crushed to death when a tree fell on their house at daybreak yesterday as tropical storm ‘Ramil’ passed through Pitogo, Quezon. In Daram, Samar, the Jacopon River, top right, swelled and spilled over its banks while flooding made roads impassable in several barangays in Roxas City, in Capiz. Joe Patente, Region 6 - DPWH
Drug war victims eye Rody’s moves
By Pot Chavez
THE camp of the drug war victims is closely monitoring the developments before the International Criminal Court (ICC) to prevent further delaying tactics by the defense team of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
“Duterte’s fitness for trial is a particularly contentious issue because of conflicting narratives and utterly confusing messages... On the part of the victims, we are closely monitoring the process to ensure that the rights of all
the groups said in a joint statement.
Last September, the same groups proposed a six-point action plan to prosecute and jail corrupt officials and recover stolen funds. They urged the President then to form an independent body to go after those responsible for stealing billions of public funds intended for flood control projects.
An Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) was subsequently formed by the President which has began hearings on the allegations brought against those allegedly involved in the corruption in the Department of Public Works and Highways.
The business organizations urged the President to empower the ICI with full legal authority and independence to conduct a comprehensive investigation free from political influence.
They also pressed for the prosecution of those found responsible “without regard for rank, position, political affiliation, or personal relations,” and the recovery of embezzled public funds.
The resolution proposed strengthening institutional reforms by improving procurement and oversight systems and regularly disclosing audit findings to demonstrate the government’s commitment to integrity and accountability.
“We strongly urge you to act decisively to signal your administration’s genuine commitment to justice, integrity, and accountable governance,” the joint statement said.
The group’s appeal to the President comes amid continued protests by students and civil society groups demanding accountability and transparency in the conduct of the probe being conducted by ICI.
parties are observed and fulfilled, and that any delaying tactic is offset,” said ICC assistant to counsel Kristina Conti in a statement.
Last month, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I appointed three members of a
panel of independent experts to assess the medical condition of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Conti noted, however, that he would still remain in detention if declared unfit for trial.
“If the reports indicate that Duterte is unfit, the case will be adjourned and not dismissed) by the judges. He will remain in the custody of the ICC and the case will be reviewed every 120 days (four months),” she explained.
Meanwhile, if the reports convince the judges to declare him fit to stand
trial, the hearing on the confirmation of charges can be rescheduled as soon as possible.
In a separate interview with Manila Standard, lawyer Evecar Cruz-Ferrer said the fact that Duterte will remain under ICC’s custody even if unfit for trial is not contrary to humanitarian law.
“They can always explore various tactics to delay. The good thing with ICC, the rules are well written and adhered to by parties. Also, they have established jurisprudence coming from past cases,” she said.
PBBM opens phase 4 of Pasig River renewal project
By Katrina Manubay
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has announced new projects aimed at revitalizing the Pasig River and various landmarks in Manila, stating that the government is “offering new ways to travel in a more sustainable manner.”
During the launch of the Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli Phase 4 on Sunday, October 19, Marcos explained that this initiative aims to provide businesses with new opportunities for growth and to foster a revitalized community.
“But beyond the sights and sounds, this project is ultimately for everyone. So, people can find time to re -
lax, to feel refreshed in the middle of a bustling city in the middle of a busy day,” he said.
The president reiterated that, similar to earlier phases of the project, this portion is also open to small and medium-sized businesses, providing them with a platform to thrive within this revitalized community.
Marcos also highlighted the importance of restoring historic landmarks, mentioning projects such as converting the Intramuros Golf Course into an open green space, rehabilitating Plaza Calderon, and enhancing the Lawton Underpass to improve walkability and accessibility.
“All these efforts are part of a larger
vision to create a culturally rich urban environment where history, nature, and modern living come together seamlessly,” he said.
Marcos also noted that 63 informal settler families have been safely relocated to new homes in Naic, Cavite, where they have better access to services and the opportunity to start anew.
Phase 4 of the project includes a 530-meter stretch behind the Manila Central Post Office extending to Arroceros Forest Park.
In 2024, phase 1 and 2 of the Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli project was opened to the public.
In February, phase 3 was inaugurated in Intramuros.
The 30-year-old journalist bested 76 other contestants from around the world, earning the title along with the Country’s Power of the Year award that secured her early placement in the Top 22.
Tiglao’s victory marks a back-toback win for the Philippines following CJ Opiaza’s reign. In her speech, Tiglao used her platform to address corruption and natural disasters in the Philippines, ending her statement with a call for compassion and peace.
She also impressed in the Q&A segment with a composed answer on online scams and accountability, saying, “I hope that we will live in a peaceful world where no one should deceive just to survive.”
Turning heads in a fiery burntorange gown by designer Rian Fernandez, Tiglao embodied the image of a “phoenix.” Meanwhile, in neighboring Malaysia, Mutya ng Pilipinas Christine Eds Enero also carried the Philippine flag high as she bagged the Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International title at the Miss Tourism International 2025 pageant held at Resorts World Genting, also on October 18. Enero nearly scored another back-to-back win for the country after last year’s titleholder Liana Barrido, who passed on the Miss Tourism International crown to Poland’s Zuzanna Balonek.
The Philippines remains one of the most successful country in the competition’s history, with multiple crowns won by Mutya ng Pilipinas queens since 2000.
kilometers southeast of Manila, as the storm raked across the southeastern section of Luzon overnight.
Two people drowned and more than 18,000 others were affected as Ramil brought heavy rains and flooding to Western Visayas, the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) reported Sunday.
In Capiz, a 44-year-old man in Roxas City drowned after being swept away by floodwaters when his vehicle malfunctioned while crossing a submerged road, while a 22-year-old woman in Ivisan also drowned while trying to rescue her sister-in-law from a swollen river.
At least 47,000 people left their homes and headed to temporary shelters across southeast Luzon since Saturday, local disaster officials said, as the weather bureau warned of possible coastal flooding and landslides.
crime after due process and final judgment from a competent court.
circulation of false and misleading content alleging that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ‘threatened to remove’ the AFP pension,” Trinidad said.
“We respectfully call on Congressman Barzaga to refrain from spreading disinformation that undermines public confidence and the morale of the very men and women who defend our Republic,” he added.
The AFP officer stressed that military pensions are protected by law as earned benefits resulting from at least 20 years of honorable and dedicated service.
These benefits, it said, can only be forfeited if a retiree is convicted of a
The AFP Military Personnel Retirement and Separation Decree of 1979 is the governing law for the system of retirement for military personnel.
“No official can arbitrarily remove or withhold such pension,” he clarified.
The lawmaker’s claim appears to have been based on a statement made by AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla at a news forum on Saturday.
During the forum, Padilla told reporters that certain retired AFP officers stand to lose their monthly pensions if found guilty of spreading false information against the military or making statements that incite sedition.
This, in turn, was a reaction to reports that unnamed retired generals have been trying to convince active-
Highways (DPWH).
When we are through with 2025 (elections), we will inform the DPWH to confirm if the names of the contractors were indeed government contractors,” he said.
The agency said 6,061 families—or 18,470 individuals—from 109 barangays in Aklan, Capiz, and Iloilo were affected, with 1,789 families staying in 100 evacuation centers and 1,944 others assisted outside.
Ramil’s center was estimated at 85 kilometers west-northwest of Iba, Zambales, moving west-northwest at 35 km/h, with maximum sustained winds of 65 km/h and gustiness of up to 80 km/h. On its forecast track, the storm
duty officers to “withdraw support” to the incumbent administration.
Earlier, AFP chief-of-staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. admitted that some retired officers urged him to abandon the Marcos administration amid public protests over the flood control anomalies revealed last month.
Trinidad said the administration has, in fact, shown “its fullest support” for soldiers, especially ensuring the protection and sustainability of their pension system and benefits.
The AFP also urged public officials, especially those elected to positions, to exercise “prudence, accuracy, and integrity” when sharing information, noting that false statements can “sow division and erode public trust.”
“The AFP remains steadfast in its sworn mandate to protect the Con -
insertions in the General Appropriations Act.
The House of Representative came in second with approval rating down to 21 percent from the previous 31 percent, and people’s trust likewise plummeting to 11 percent from 21 percent as of Q3.
The Senate ranked third, with approval ratings falling from 32 percent to 28 percent, and trust losing by six percentage points from 22 percent to 16 percent.
PUBLiCUS clarified that the popularity losses by both chambers of the legislature stemmed from their participation in the budget process, specifically on the matters of assailed budget insertions and snowballing calls for greater transparency in national spending.
The survey also highlighted that even the Commission on Audit (COA) experienced one of the sharpest declines, with approval rating going down to 31 percent from 45 percent, and trust from 33 percent to 21 percent.
PUBLiCUS noted that the downtrend came amid public concerns about COA’s role in auditing substandard involving “ghost” flood control projects, as well as potential conflicts of interest involving Commissioner Mario Lipana whose wife’s construction firm reportedly secured juicy government contracts.
Similarly, the Department of Finance (DOF) saw its approval ratings decrease from 35 percent to 30 percent, and trust from 24 percent to 19 percent, reflecting public anxiety over rising government debt and concerns about fiscal transparency.
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) also registered approval declines, from 32 percent to 26 percent, and trust, decreasing from 23 percent to 18 percent amid allegations of redundant allocations and questionable budget insertions in the proposed 2026 National Expenditure Program.
The survey covered 1,500 respondents, randomly selected from a panel of registered Filipino voters maintained by the Singapore office of PureSpectrum, a U.S.-based panel marketplace with a global presence. PAHAYAG is a corporate social responsibility initiative of PUBLiCUS Asia Inc. that operates on a quarterly basis.
will continue moving over the West Philippine Sea and is expected to exit the Philippine area of responsibility this morning.
The weather service said Ramil may re-intensify over the West Philippine Sea and reach a severe tropical storm category once outside the PAR.
The storm struck as the country reels from a series of major earthquakes that killed at least 87 people over the past three weeks, compounding the challenges faced by disaster response agencies. With AFP, Rio N. Araja
stitution, safeguard our democracy, and serve the Filipino people with honor, integrity, and patriotism,” Trinidad said.
In a recent social media post, Barzaga also falsely claimed that the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) has stopped its investigation on Leyte 1st District Rep. Martin Romualdez due to health reasons.
In truth, the ICI simply rescheduled the next appearance of the former House Speaker to accommodate his request, as he is scheduled to undergo a medical procedure on Tuesday next week, October 22. Currently, Barzaga is facing an ethics complaint at the House of Representatives over what his colleagues believe are inappropriate behavior, statements, and other antics.
Bicolana tops PMA entrance exam 2025
By Rex Espiritu
A YOUNG woman from the Philippine Science High School–Bicol Region has topped the Philippine Military Academy Entrance Examination (PMAEE) 2025, besting over 24,000 examinees nationwide.
Amanda Isabel Guzman of Pisay Bicol ranked first among 1,436 passers, highlighting the continued excellence and growing presence of women in the country’s premier military school.
The exam, held from July to September 2025 across 48 testing centers, drew 33,640 online applicants, with 24,671 qualifying to take the test—up 13 percent from last year. The 5.82 percent passing rate slightly improved from 5.02 percent in 2024.
PMA spokesperson Lt. Jesse Nestor Saludo said the top performers embody the Academy’s mission to recruit the best and brightest through a strict merit-based system.
The 1,436 passers will now undergo medical, physical, and neuropsychiatric evaluations until April 2026.
Those who qualify will form the PMA Class of 2030, set to report to Fort Del Pilar in May next year.
IN BRIEF
Authorities nab Korean fugitives in Cebu City
THREE Korean nationals wanted for large-scale fraud in South Korea were arrested in Cebu, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) reported.
CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II identified the suspects as Kim, 43; Jung, 44; and Yousung, 44 — alleged key members of a fraud syndicate operating in South Korea.
The men were apprehended on October 16 in Barangay Pardo, Cebu City by joint operatives of CIDG, the Bureau of Immigration Fugitive Search Unit, and the Naval Intelligence and Security Group based on INTERPOL Red Notices.
Authorities said the group forged loan documents between 2022 and 2024 to secure ₩5.9 billion (about ₱240 million) in fraudulent car loans.
Morico lauded the CIDG and its partners for their “unyielding efforts” in the manhunt, saying the arrests aid South Korea in pursuing justice for the victims. Vince Lopez
Cebu Capitol taps private hospitals to boost health
THE Cebu Provincial Government has partnered with 22 private hospitals and two pharmacies to improve health access for Cebuanos.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro and Piso Health consultant Dr. Nikki Catalan said the initiative will allow accredited private hospitals to honor Guarantee Letters from the Capitol for those under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.
In a meeting with medical directors on October 17, Catalan thanked private partners for their “solidarity and shared commitment to healthcare.”
She said this first-of-its-kind collaboration seeks to enhance patient-centered care and ensure faster, more efficient medical assistance. Minerva Newman
Bayanihan Village rises for families in Davao
THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has begun building modular homes for families displaced by the recent 7.4-magnitude earthquake in Davao Oriental.
Housing czar Jose Ramon Aliling said the Bayanihan Village is taking shape in Barrio Poblacion, Tarragona town, to provide “safer and more comfortable shelter” for affected residents.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier visited the quake-hit areas with Aliling and other Cabinet officials to assess the damage and speed up relocation efforts.
DHSUD’s regional office has started installing modular units at the government-designated site, with construction expected to progress in the coming days. Rio N. Araja
SC dismisses Cassy Ong’s petition vs. POGO hearings
By Pot Chavez
THE Supreme Court (SC) has dismissed the petition filed by Whirlwind Corporation and Lucky South 99 stakeholder Cassandra Li Ong, who sought to stop Congress from allegedly violating her right to remain silent and her right against self-incrimination.
In its ruling, the High Tribunal affirmed that Congress has the authority to cite individuals in contempt and order their arrest to compel attendance, testimony, or the submission of documents when necessary. Ong was invited to Senate and House hearings on illegal activities linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) but later refused to attend, invoking her right to remain silent. The SC clarified that this right can
only be invoked when a specific incriminating question is asked. It said Ong broadly invoked the right without referring to any particular question and that, as a resource person, she could not refuse to appear before Congress. The Court added that Ong may only decline to answer questions that would directly incriminate her. In July, the Court of Appeals also dismissed her petition seeking to quash a qualified human trafficking case filed against her.
BI dismantles mini-POGO operated by Koreans in Pampanga
By Vito Barcelo
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has dismantled a covert mini-POGO operation run by seven South Koreans inside a residential condominium in Pampanga.
BI-Fugitive Search Unit Chief Rendel Ryan Sy said the suspects were
caught in a luxury condominium at Clark Freeport Zone, Angeles City, in coordination with South Korean authorities, the Philippine Air Force, and the Clark Development Corporation. Sy said the team was initially tracking a Korean fugitive reportedly operating in the area. While the fugitive was not found, seven male Koreans
were caught manning workstations linked to online gambling.
The suspects were allegedly engaged in small-scale illegal betting operations connected to global sporting events.
One of them, identified as 23-year-old Ha Dong Jun, has been wanted by the BI since January 2025 for overstaying after the shutdown of POGO opera-
Acidre renews push for inclusive higher education reform, support for SUCs
By Rio N. Araja
TINGOG party-list Rep. Jude Acidre concluded the recent congressional session with a renewed push for higher education reform grounded on inclusive policymaking and sustained support for state universities and colleges (SUCs).
At the opening of the 20th Congress, he assumed leadership of the committee on higher and technical education, a role he described as “a responsibility that calls not just for legislation, but for leadership that listens.”
During a summit with presidents and leaders of SUCs, he unveiled a 10-point higher education reform agenda, outlining a compre-
hensive roadmap for a more inclusive, modern, and responsive education system.
Acidre led the first-ever onboarding of permanent House Regents in SUCs, a milestone for transparency and accountability in higher education governance.
He expressed support for the House-approved P1.28-trillion proposed budget for the education sector in 2026, which reflected a P56.6-billion realignment to strengthen education programs and facilities nationwide.
Acidre filed 155 bills, several of which focused on higher education reform, including measures developed in partnership with the Second Congressional Commission on Education.
tions.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the agency will continue intensified operations against POGO and POGO-like activities involving foreign nationals. The seven suspects were transferred to the BI detention facility in Taguig pending deportation proceedings.
URBAN SHELTER. A mother dog takes shelter inside an open tomb at the San Mateo Public Cemetery in Rizal, reflecting the quiet struggle of strays in overcrowded urban cemeteries. Edd Castro
FIRE OLYMPICS.
Fire and rescue volunteers from various Manila organizations compete in the 9th Mini Fire Olympics 2025 at Barangay 229, Sta. Cruz, Manila, on Sunday. Norman Cruz
MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2025
Enhanced disaster preparedness eyed
By Vince Lopez
DEFENSE Secretary and concurrent National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) chairman Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has directed the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (RDRRMCs), to conduct regular preparedness drills, infrastructure audits, and retrofitting measures.
IN BRIEF
Landslide
breaks up Bukidnon-Davao road
THE Department of Public works and Highways (DPWH) on Sunday said the Bukidnon-Davao road collapsed due to a landslide in Sitio Kipolot, Barangay Palacapao, Quezon, Bukidnon.
DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said the collapse occurred after a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Surigao del Sur, rendering the road impassable to all types of vehicles.
The damaged portion affected a four-lane section of the highway. Officials described it as a major cut-off for traffic between Bukidnon and Davao City.
The DPWH is reported to be on‐site and working to clear the area as soon as possible. Vito Barcelo
LTFRB starts random checks of PUV depots
LAND Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairman Vigor Mendoza II recently inspected bus terminals in Bacolod City, signalling a regionwide start of random inspections on transport terminals and public utility vehicles as part of the safety measures for the All Saints’ and All Souls Days on Nov. 1 and 2.
“We want to make sure that all these transportation companies are really complying with the guidelines set by the LTFRB to ensure the convenience of the passengers,” he said.
“Undas is fast approaching and many of our countrymen will be traveling again. This early, we are addressing the usual complaints at the bus terminals,” he added.
Among those inspected were the Ceres North Bus Terminal and the Bacolod North Bound Terminal in Bacolod City. Rio N. Araja
Pre-Halloween Shack fest at SBMA, Oct. 24
SUBIC Bay Freeport—Employees of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) have start preparations for the upcoming Subic Bay Halloween Shack Competition at the Mini Golf Course, Waterfront Road here on October 24, 2025.
“We are transforming the former Mini Golf Course into a Halloween wonderland where each Strategic Business Unit (SBU) can showcase their terrifying creativity and flair for all to enjoy,” SBMA tourism manager Jem Camba said. Camba enjoined all SBMA employees to participate and showcase their creativity in celebrating SBMA Tourism Manager Jem Camba said Halloween, aiming to boost tourism activities in the area. The shacks, which will be unveiled on October 24, will be open for public viewing until October 31.
The winning SBU will take home ₱50,000. Butch Gunio
In a memorandum order, Teodoro also called for the integration of earthquake resilience measures into planning and enhancement of public information efforts, including misinformation and disinformation control measures.
Memorandum No. 279, dated Oct. 15, 2025, issued following a series of recent earthquakes, enjoined all local government units (LGUs) to strengthen earthquake risk reduction plans.
Teodoro enjoined all LGUs to immediately intensify earthquake risk reduction measures while ensuring public service continuity by focusing on strengthening family, community, and school preparedness to create a culture of safety.
Teodoro also aimed to prevent the spread of unverified information that may cause unnecessary public panic; conduct comprehensive infrastructure audits and assessments; prioritize and implement retrofitting or temporary risk-reduction actions for critical facilities, and identify temporary alternate service facilities, as needed; and ensure that regular projects and activities related to earthquakes are programmed and implemented.
RDRRMCs, chaired by OCD regional directors, are tasked with coordinating these activities and ensuring that they are cascaded. They will also assess the performance of LGU Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management
(LDRRM) offices, in coordination with the OCD and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and provide performance evaluations to both agencies.
Teodoro also directed the RDRRMCs to consult with the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology and the OCD for technical support. Earlier this month, during a National Inter-Agency Coordinating Cell (NIACC) meeting, Teodoro instructed a review of local contingency plans to ensure that all established disaster protocols of LGUs within their area of responsibility are validated and up-todate.
reminded on students’ loan payment halt law
SENATOR Francis Escudero has urged all higher education institutions (HEIs) to adhere to the moratorium on the collection of student loans in areas where a state of calamity has been declared.
With several parts of the country still reeling from the devastating effects of earthquakes and typhoons over the past month, Escudero said families had to deal with “getting their lives back in order, first and foremost.”
“We remind our universities, colleges and technical-vocational institutions (TVIs) that we have a law prohibiting the collection of the students’ debts. In times of disasters, the most important thing is for the victims to rebuild their lives,” Escudero said in a statement in Filipino.
Under Republic Act 12077, or the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act, payment of all fees and charges by HEIs and technical-vocational institutions (TVIs) is suspended for the duration of the state of emergency or calamity and 30 days after this is lifted.
As one of the authors and sponsors of the law, Escudero said the education of students should never be affected whenever disaster strikes because in many instances, recovering from this is even more challenging than rebuilding lost property.
“Lack of money to pay for tuition is not a reason for the students to drop out, particularly when they are victims of typhoons, earthquakes, or any calamities,” he stressed.
The law states that the availment of the moratorium shall not in any way adversely affect the eligibility of the students concerned for re-enrolment in the succeeding semesters. Escudero noted that the law encourages the HEIs and TVIs to offer payment relief or assistance programs for the affected students to make it easier for them to pay off their debts.
a revered practice in Chinese Buddhism recognized as one of its most solemn and significant ceremonies. The event features rituals such as making offerings, reciting sutras, performing confessions, and presenting food offerings. Richmond Chi
Whole of Davao del Norte placed in calamity state
By Cherrie Anne Villahermosa
THE Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council of Davao del Norte has approved a recommendation to place the entire province under a statement of calamity. In an emergency meeting over the weekend, the panel passed two recommendations on the matter. One places the province under the state of calamity, the other allocates P2-million for the municipality of Tarragona for the purchase of bottled water.
Tarragona was heavily affected by two strong earthquakes on Oct. 10. The town was about 40.5 kilometers away from the epicenter which was traced to Manay, Davao Oriental.
The municipality of New Corella in Davao del Norte was also placed under a state of calamity by the Sangguniang Bayan during a special session on Oct. 15.
A reservoir for residents of New Cortez in New Corella was damaged when it collapsed due to the tremor. Multiple infrastructures, houses, and roads in the town were also damaged by the quakes, measured at magnitudes-7.4 and 6.8 respectively.
According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the twin tremors from Manay, Davao Oriental left over P143 million in infrastructure damage. The temblors have so far affected more than one million people across the Davao region, severely impacting the mobility of residents and access to essential services due to damaged roads, bridges and public buildings.
Merger to provide stable power supply for Negros
By Edwin Ombion
BAYANIHAN IN ACTION. Binnadang, a local term for bayanihan or self-self, comes alive in this community where villagers acted as a team in clearing a creek and strawberry farms of silts and trash ahead of the arrival of tropical storm Ramil to
of flooding in their locality. Dave Leprozo
TENT CITY. With strong earthquakes hitting the country in succession and leaving thousands homeless, tent cities now appear to be fashionable, like this one set up by the Philippine Red Cross for quake victims in Davao Oriental. Tent cities are also in
OPINION
Kiko and Lean
TWO young legislators are training their guns on the present systemic dysfunction. One is Kiko Barzaga, the “meow” gentleman from Dasmarinas upon Cavite. His late father, Elpidio “Pidi” Barzaga was one of the early recruits of the then opposition coalition against the dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr., recruited by Neptali Gonzales Sr. who later became DOJ secretary and Senate President.
UNIDO headed by the late Salvador “Doy” Laurel could hardly recruit oppositionists in Cavite, despite its proximity to Metro Manila, whichm along with Cebu, were the centers of dissent against authoritarian leadership.
By the time Ninoy Aquino was shot in the tarmac of the international airport, we could count on only three “volunteers” in Cavite, namely, Judge Isaac Tolentino of Tagaytay whose son Francis later became senator; Nanding Campos of Dasmarinas, son-inlaw of former President Carlos P. Garcia, and law professor Pidi Barzaga.
The only time I met Kiko was in his father’s office in Dasmarinas, when I accompanied Yorme Isko Moreno who was then campaigning for the presidency in 2022. He was quite forthright, surprisingly frank and un-customarily telling us in that brief encounter, that he was rooting for BbM, to the embarrassment of his father, the gracious host.
Barzaga is like a young, Gen Z version of Don Quixote, refreshing despite his meowmeow antics, bold enough to say the things that many out of misplaced politesse feel about the corruption that envelops the benighted land like a pandemic worse than COVID 19, infecting the house of horrors he is himself part of.
Would that our young people listen to Kiko’s unflinching message. It is their future that is at stake in this political “crusade.” ***
“Crusade” too is how Secretary Vince Dizon calls what he understandably though undeservedly attributes to PBbM, as his mission – cleaning the Augean stables of the “rotten” DPWH. Recruited for that “crusade” was one Arrey Perez who he plucked from a high-paying position in the private sector.
Last Thursday evening, I watched a press conference of the young gentleman from Batangas, Leandro Leviste, grand-nephew of the legendary Feliciano Leviste, who together with the illustrious Claro M. Recto and Jose P. Laurel were the revered political titans of the province, accuse an unnamed member of Dizon’s team as having talked with a contractor, something Leviste charged as unbecoming in Dizon’s heralded “crusade.” Leviste even conversed over his phone with “someone” from DPWH without turning off his microphone, and later perorated on motherhood statements, this time for the media to hear, about reducing the cost of projects and fighting corruption. Both the official accused of misdemeanor and the mysterious caller were unnamed. I found Leviste’s conduct a bit unseemly. Everyone was held in suspense at the
“who” until Friday morning when he named USec Perez as the person whose credentials he questioned on the basis of unfounded allegations.
Weeks before, the young Leviste hogged the headlines when he caused the arrest in dramatic fashion of the DPWH district engineer who he accused of trying to bribe him with 3.1 million pesos in cash.
I found that a bit queer. “Hindi naman siguro ganoon katanga yung DE na ‘yun?,” I wondered, to have the effrontery of bringing a wad of “peanuts” to a billionaire congressman. Something for Ripley’s “Believe it or Not.”
Immediate acceptance of Usec Perez’s resignation without proper ‘due process’ exposes the underlying weakness of PBbM’s ‘crusade’ where optics is everything and truth-seeking is manageable’
Last Friday afternoon, while I was having coffee with a friend who knew some in’s and out’s in the present administration, breaking news came through my cellphone about the “irrevocable resignation” of USec Perez.
Then, listening to Secretary Dizon’s presscon later that afternoon, I could not get myself to agree to the “whiff” of gossip on his undersecretary’s character being reason enough to accept a “volunteered” resignation.
Are we not supposed to “investigate” first, follow the evidence wherever that may lead us, a trite avowal repeated by the ICI, the Ombudsman, the DOJ, and the President mismo, as they go through ministrations of ferreting out “truth” about this web of syndicated corruption?
Secretary Dizon himself vouched for Arrey’s character and integrity. No bidding has taken place because everything is under suspended inanimation at the DPWH, with all efforts directed at fault-finding still.
Were the would-be crooks fearful that Perez, being close to the new secretary, might head the bidding committees and foil their plans?
Delicadeza may have prompted USec Perez’s resignation, but immediate acceptance without proper “due process” exposes the underlying weakness of PBbM’s “crusade” where optics is everything and truth-seeking is manageable.
Meanwhile, Toby Tiangco, the legislator who exposed the shenanigans behind the Houdini acts in the bicam asks: “Why has the DFA not cancelled the passport of Zaldy Co? Waiting for instructions?
Cybersec and beyond: Lessons from Poland’s cybersecurity playbook
THE recently concluded 4th Poland–Philippines IT Business Summit brought together leaders from government, enterprise, and the tech sector under a timely and urgent theme: “Cybersec and Beyond.” With threats escalating and digital technologies outpacing regulation, the summit served as both a wake-up call and a roadmap for how the Philippines must move forward in the digital age—not just faster, but smarter and more securely. Opening messages from Mr. Adam Dyszlewski, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Embassy of tof Poland, Mr. Bartek Wasiewski of the Polish Investment and Trade Agency Manila, Mr. Maciek Kurjanski of the Polish Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines, and Ms. Gladys De Ocampo, Deputy Division Chief of the Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Section of the Cybersecurity Bureau, Department of Information and Communications Technology, set the tone by emphasizing mutual interests in cybersecurity, digital cooperation, and building resilient economies through strategic tech alliances. Each speaker underscored the urgency of moving beyond surfacelevel partnerships to forge enduring digital frameworks grounded in trust and shared responsibility.
De Ocampo’s keynote presentation laid out the Philippine government’s ongoing digital security agenda: the National Cybersecurity Plan 2023–2028, the E-Governance Act, and the Free Wi-Fi for All Program.
Artificial intelligence may be transforming tools, but without human judgment and cyber competence, no system is secure
While acknowledging the Philippines’ advancement to Tier 2 in the 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index, she was clear-eyed about the challenges ahead—especially in building local capacity, institutional coordination, and implementation readiness. Framing digital collaboration with Poland as a form of “strategic digital diplomacy,” she called for stronger international linkages to bolster national cybersecurity, develop technical expertise, and create mechanisms for secure data governance.
with heavy crosshatching. A large crumbling neoclassical façade labelled ‘DPWH’ spans the background. Foreground: a giant rusted bolt labelled ‘Kickbacks’ being yanked out by a wrench labelled ‘Purge.’ next to another bolt labelled ‘Ghost Projects.’ The beams inside the façade show skull-shaped cavities. A nervous foreman in a barong (Philippine formal shirt) holds a checklist titled ‘More heads to roll.’ Below, small civilian figures brace beneath falling hardhats labelled ‘Public Works.’ Caption (small text): ;Structural audit, not cosmetic repair.’
A great blessing
AT THE Luneta Grandstand Saturday, members of the Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide marked the 47th year of their founding with the theme “Holy Spirit Breakthrough.”
According to the church group, they have had “five decades of divine encounters with the Holy Spirit, miraculous manifestations of God’s power seen in healings, transformations, and answered prayers.”
Leading the celebration was JIL’s president and spiritual director, brother Eddie Villanueva. At some point, he introduced his son, Senator Joel Villanueva, as the “real main guest speaker” of the event, supposedly as intimated to him by God through the Holy Spirit.
The JIL movement remains popular with many Filipinos, not only those residing in the Philippines but among migrant communities in at least 75 countries. Many of its members are God-fearing, upright, and law-abiding citizens who love their families and their country, and try to live honest and dignified lives from day to day. They appear to be level headed, rational individuals who do not immediately believe anything they hear, or parrot anything they are told.
But how is it possible to completely divorce spirituality and private living from the larger political issues that have
This call for collaboration was echoed in the first panel, which explored how public and private actors can work together to operationalize cybersecurity “by design and by default.”
De Ocampo was joined by Jan Svorobovic, Asia-Pacific Sales Director of Comarch, and Dongie Alviar, President of Advanced Abilities Philippines.
The panelists agreed that government-led initiatives need the technical reinforcement and agility of the private sector. Svorobovic pointed to Poland’s e-invoicing rollout and regulatory compliance culture as a proof point that smart regulation can actually drive innovation.
Alviar emphasized that shared intelligence, transparency, and openness to co-development are critical to maintaining cybersecurity in a constantly shifting threat landscape.
The second panel pulled no punches in laying out the vulnerabilities in our digital infrastructure. Lorenzo Rodriguez, representing Fintech Alliance PH and RCBC, cited P5.8 billion in cyber losses reported by Philippine banks in 2024.
Only 6 percent of organizations in the country are deemed cyber-ready. AI-driven phishing, insider threats, and identity fraud are on the rise.
hounded the leaders of this organization?
The elder Villanueva is in his third term as first nominee of Citizens Battle Against Corruption, a party-list group at the House of Representatives. This is the same post his son held, also for three terms, in earlier years, before the latter became so visible and earned a Senate seat.
May we avoid the trap of giving anyone unconditional adulation
Alas, at the Senate, the younger church leader has been at the center of a corruption scandal, having been named by different sources pertaining to the flood-control projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways. He has vehemently and passionately denied any involvement. During the Luneta event, three col-
And yet, public awareness remains low, and the talent pipeline is woefully underdeveloped. James To, President of SwiftPay and NextBank, shared how their systems have built in compliance, resilience, and interoperability to serve not just fintechs and banks, but also regulators. His message was clear: security must be foundational to digital innovation, not a patch added later.
The panelists also emphasized the need to “future-proof” our education system. As digital transformation touches every aspect of work and life, foundational skills in logic, data security, and responsible tech use must be integrated into early education. Poland’s STEM-focused academic approach and its successful alignment of industry and universities in the cybersecurity space were held up as a model for the Philippines to emulate. Artificial intelligence may be transforming tools, but without human judgment and cyber competence, no system is secure. The summit also put a spotlight on the capabilities of local firms. Companies like Advanced Abilities, Black Bear Securities, and SwiftPay showed that Filipino tech enterprises are more than capable of delivering world-class solutions. These aren’t just suppliers—they are stra-
leagues – Senators Alan Peter Cayetano, Ronald dela Rosa, and Robinhood Padilla – showed up in support of their friend, who announced he could look anybody straight in the eye as he insisted on his innocence.
No mudslinging, he said, can distract him from his mission of building this nation, transforming this nation for the glory of God.
Here, anybody saying that religious matters should be divorced from politics would be mistaken – and delusional.
After all, the Villanuevas rode on their crowd-drawing power, anchored supposedly on their godly virtues, to project themselves as viable and virtuous political choices, as well.
We can only hope that the members of JIL, at least the newer generation of followers, are able to distinguish the good that comes from their membership in an organization that is imbued with a noble mission from the need to regard their leaders as infallible.
May they be enlightened that no one person or family is so immune from the trappings of power, and may they avoid the trap of giving anyone unconditional adulation – without at least questioning them or challenging their tired narratives of persecution.
The ability to think carefully and independently is, after all, a great blessing for the mind and spirit.
tegic assets. The government must integrate such innovators into national procurement and infrastructure initiatives to foster a secure, sovereign digital ecosystem.
The most forward-looking proposal came from PAIH Manila: the establishment of a Poland–Philippines Digital Alliance. This envisioned joint cyber training centers, collaborative regulatory compliance hubs for ASEAN, academic exchanges, and continuous knowledge-sharing between two digitally ambitious nations.
This is no longer a theoretical exercise— it is an imperative.
“Trust is not a given—it is built, byte by byte.”
A quote from Fintech Alliance PH Chair Lito Villanueva that was echoed by Mr. Lorenzo Rodriguez in his remarks, best captured the ethos of the summit. Trust alone won’t shield us from digital threats.
It must be matched by investment, competence, and decisive policy. If the insights shared in this summit are to mean anything, they must translate into action—starting with government and industry leaders recognizing that cybersecurity is not a peripheral concern, but a prerequisite for sustainable, inclusive prosperity in a digital economy that evolves and grows more complex by the day.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2025 mst.daydesk@gmail.com
IN BRIEF
New deal puts Takaichi 1st woman PM
TOKYO – Japan’s ruling party is set to sign a new coalition deal on Monday, paving the way for Sanae Takaichi to become the country’s first woman prime minister, media reports said.
Takaichi became leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) earlier this month, but her bid to become premier was derailed by the collapse of her ruling coalition.
Since then, the LDP has been working to cobble together a different alliance, putting her chances back on track.
Takaichi and her counterpart Hirofumi Yoshimura from the reformist, right-leaning opposition Japan Innovation Party (JIP) are set to sign a coalition agreement on Monday, Kyodo News reported Sunday, citing unnamed senior officials from both parties.
The Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper also said Takaichi and Yoshimura were “likely to sign a coalition agreement after talks on Monday”, citing unnamed party sources. AFP
France’s ex-president Sarkozy goes to jail
PARIS – France’s ex-president Nicolas Sarkozy is to be jailed Tuesday over a scheme to acquire Libyan funding for his 2007 presidential run, becoming the first former head of an EU country to serve time behind bars.
Sarkozy, France’s right-wing leader from 2007 to 2012, was convicted in late September of criminal conspiracy over a plan for late Libyan dictator Moamer Kadhafi to fund his electoral campaign.
The former state leader, who has appealed the verdict and denounced an “injustice”, is to be incarcerated in the Parisian prison La Sante.
“If they absolutely want me to sleep in prison, I will sleep in prison -- but with my head held high,” he told the press after his September 25 verdict.
Sarkozy is to be the first French leader to be incarcerated since Philippe Petain, the Nazi collaborationist head of state of France’s Vichy regime, who was jailed after World War II. He is likely to be held in one of the cells of nine square metres (95 square feet) in the
solitary confinement wing, prison staff have told AFP.
Pope Leo to proclaim seven new saints
VATICAN CITY – Pope Leo XIV is set to create seven new saints Sunday, including the first from Papua New Guinea, an archbishop killed in the Armenian genocide and a Venezuelan “doctor of the poor.” Also set to be canonised in the solemn ceremony in St Peter’s Square on World Mission Day are three nuns who dedicated their lives to the poor and sick, and former Satanic priest Bartolo Longo. Born in 1841, the Italian lawyer subsequently rejoined the Catholic faith and went on to found the Pontifical Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of the Rosary of Pompeii.
The canonisation will be the second for the US pope since he was made leader of the Catholic Church on May 8. Last month, he proclaimed as saints Italians Carlo Acutis -- a teenager dubbed “God’s Influencer” who spread the faith online before his death at age 15 in 2006 -- and Pier Giorgio Frassati, considered a model of charity who died in 1925, aged 24. AFP
Bolivia looks to the right for salvation
LA PAZ – Bolivia chooses between two pro-business candidates in presidential elections on Sunday, ending two decades of socialist rule that have left the beleaguered South American nation deep in economic crisis. With dollars and fuel in short supply and annual inflation at more than 20 percent, weary voters snubbed the Movement Toward Socialism (MAS) party founded by former president Evo Morales in a first electoral round in August. On Sunday, they will elect one of two die-hard MAS opponents: economist and senator Rodrigo Paz, 58, or former interim president Jorge Quiroga, 65, an engineer by training. Either way, the election will close out an economic experiment marked by initial prosperity funded by Morales’s nationalization of gas reserves. The boom was followed by bust, notably critical shortages of fuel and foreign currency under outgoing leader Luis Arce. Successive governments under-invested in the country’s hydrocarbons sector, once the backbone of the economy. Later, production plummeted and Bolivia almost depleted its dollar reserves to sustain a universal subsidy for fuel that it cannot afford to import. The
Bangladesh probes cause of massive int’l airport fire
DHAKA – Bangladeshi traders on Sunday assessed heavy losses after a devastating fire tore through the cargo complex of the country’s main international airport, as the government opened an investigation into possible arson.
Firefighters had brought the blaze under control and flight operations resumed late Saturday, airport executive director S. M. Ragib Samad told AFP, after thick black smoke swept across the runway, forcing authorities to briefly suspend flights.
But Hazrat Shahjalal
Protesters in ‘No Kings’ rallies
WASHINGTON, DC – Huge crowds took to the streets in all 50 US states at “No Kings” protests on Saturday (Sunday Manila time), venting anger over President Donald Trump’s hardline policies, while Republicans ridiculed them as “Hate America” rallies.
Organizers said seven million people attended protests spanning New York to Los Angeles, with demonstrations popping up in small cities across the US heartland and even near Trump’s home in Florida.
“This is what democracy looks like!” chanted thousands in Washington near the US Capitol, where the federal government was shut down for a third week amid a legislative deadlock.
“Hey hey ho ho, Donald Trump has got to go!” said protesters, many of them carrying American flags, at least one of
which was flying upside down in a signal of distress.
Colorful signs called on people to “protect democracy,” while others demanded the country abolish the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency at the center of Trump’s anti-immigrant crackdown.
Demonstrators slammed what they called the Republican billionaire’s strongarm tactics, including attacks on the media, political opponents and undocumented immigrants.
Netanyahu: Gaza war not over until Hamas disarms
GAZA CITY – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned during the weekend the war in Gaza would not be over until Hamas was disarmed and the Palestinian territory demilitarised.
His declaration came as Hamas’s armed wing, the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades, handed over the remains of two further hostages on Saturday night under a US-brokered ceasefire agreement.
Netanyahu’s office said late Saturday that a Red Cross team had received the remains of two hostages from Hamas and handed them to Israeli forces in Gaza, from where they would be taken to Israel to be identified.
The issue of the dead hostages still in Gaza has become a sticking point in the implementation of the first phase of the ceasefire. Israel has linked the reopening of the key Rafah crossing to the territory to the recovery of the hostages’ remains.
Netanyahu cautioned that completing the ceasefire’s second phase was essential to ending the war and involved the disarming of Hamas and the demilitarisation of the Gaza Strip.
“When that is successfully completed -- hopefully in an easy way, but if not, in a hard way -- then the war will end,” he added in an appearance on right-wing Israeli Channel 14.
Hamas has so far resisted the idea and since the pause in fighting has moved to reassert its control over Gaza.
The US State Department on Saturday said it had “credible reports” that Hamas was planning an imminent attack against civilians in Gaza, warning that would be a “ceasefire violation”. AFP
“I never thought I would live to see the death of my country as a democracy,”
69-year-old retiree Colleen Hoffman told AFP as she marched down Broadway in New York.
“We are in a crisis -- the cruelty of this regime, the authoritarianism. I just feel like I cannot sit home and do nothing.”
In Los Angeles, protesters floated a giant balloon of Trump in a diaper. Many flew flags, with at least one referencing pirate anime hit “One Piece”, brandishing the skull logo that has recently become a staple of anti-government protests from Peru to Madagascar.
“Fight Ignorance not migrants,” read one sign at a protest in Houston, where nearly one-quarter of the population is made up of immigrants, according to the Migration Policy Institute.
It was not possible to independently verify the organizers’ attendance figures.
In New York, authorities said more than
100,000 gathered at one of the largest protests, while in Washington, crowds were estimated at between 8,000 and 10,000 people.
Trump’s response to Saturday’s events was muted.
His political communications team posted an AI-generated video on X showing the president dressed in royal garb and a crown, waving from a balcony.
“They’re saying they’re referring to me as a king. I’m not a king,” he told Fox News show “Sunday Morning Futures.” But his surrogates were in fighting form, with House Speaker Mike Johnson deriding the “Hate America rally.”
“You’re going to bring together the Marxists, the Socialists, the Antifa advocates, the anarchists and the pro-Hamas wing of the far-left Democrat Party,” he told reporters. Protesters treated that claim with ridicule. AFP
Pakistan, Afghanistan agree to ‘quick truce’ in Qatar talks
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an “immediate ceasefire” at talks in Doha, Qatar’s foreign ministry said early Sunday, after at least 10 Afghans were killed in Pakistani air strikes that broke an earlier truce. Kabul had accused Islamabad of violating a 48-hour ceasefire, which briefly put a stop to nearly a week of cross-border clashes that killed dozens of troops and civilians on both sides.
Security sources in Islamabad said the strikes in the Afghan border areas targeted a militant group linked to the Pakistani Taliban, in retaliation for an attack on Pakistani paramilitary troops.
After talks Saturday in Doha mediated by Qatar and Turkey to ease tensions, Qatar’s foreign ministry said “the two sides agreed to an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of mechanisms to consolidate lasting peace and stability between the two countries”. They also agreed to hold follow-up meetings in the coming days to ensure
the sustainability of the ceasefire and verify its implementation, the foreign ministry added.
After attending the talks in Doha, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed that a ceasefire agreement had been reached and said the two sides would meet again in Istanbul on October 25.
“Terrorism on Pakistani soil conducted from Afghanistan will immediately stop. Both neighbouring countries will respect each other’s sovereignty,” Asif said on social media.
Pakistan’s foreign ministry had earlier said the talks in Doha aimed to “end crossborder terrorism against Pakistan emanating from Afghanistan and restore peace and stability along the Pak-Afghan border”. Islamabad’s delegation also included intelligence chief General Asim Malik, state TV reported. The Afghan delegation was headed by defence chief Mohammad Yaqoob, the Taliban defence ministry said on social media. AFP
“No Kings” protests. Trump’s response to Saturday’s events
GM Antonio eyes World Senior chess crown
Thirteen-time Philippine Open Chess Champion Grandmaster Rogelio “Joey” Antonio Jr. is setting his sights on a world title as he competes in the 33rd FIDE World Senior Chess Championships (50+ and 65+ categories) slated for Oct. 20 to Nov. 2, 2025, in Gallipoli, Italy.
Antonio, one of the Philippines’ most enduring and decorated chess masters, departed for Italy on Sunday via Etihad
Airways, alongside International Master Jose Efren Bagamasbad and FIDE Master Mario Mangubat.
“I will do my very best for flag and country,” said the 63-year-old Antonio, who is determined to improve on his runner-up finish at the 2017 edition held in Acqui Terme, Italy.
Following the world championship, Antonio will also see action in the III Open Cap Negret Internacional de Ajedrez, a FIDE-sanctioned tournament scheduled from November 8 to 16, 2025, at Hotel Cap Negret in Al-
tea, Alicante, Spain. Antonio’s European campaign is made possible through the support of Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco, PEZA Director General Tereso Panga, Hotel Sogo Corporate Marketing Manager Maria Suzette Geminiano, and sportsman Christopher “Dong” Cheng. Also joining the Philippine contin-
Galve-Miraflor tandem propels UST to playoff against La Salle
\RON Galve and Bien Miraflor
brought the University of Santo Tomas a step closer to the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Badminton Final Four, completing a 3-0 sweep of Adamson University in the first stage of the playoffs on Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall in Malate, Manila.
Part of the Golden Shuttlers’ run to last year’s semifinals, the two young guns ensured that the España-based squad would still have a chance at redemption against their previous-day tormentors, the De La Salle Green shuttlers, with a thrilling 21-19, 21-17 win over Nathaniel Acedillo and Russel Oliveros in the lone doubles match.
Galve and Miraflor had to fend off a huge comeback from the Soaring Falcons in the opening game after their 18-10 lead dwindled to a single point.
The Golden Shuttlers faltered at the net, allowing Acedillo and Oliveros to capitalize with precise short balls. Eventually, UST managed to shift the game’s pace and claim the opener.
The second game followed a similar trajectory, but using the lessons from the first, Galve and Miraflor sealed the victory, securing the squad’s advancement to the next stage of the playoffs.
The Golden Shuttlers will face the De La Salle Green Shuttlers once again for another shot at the fourth and final semifinals spot on Monday at 8 a.m., still at the same Malate venue.
“It’s more of palagay ko may tinuturo pa sa ‘min si Lord na isang bagay; in a way na Kahit may chance na mapunta na kami ro’n (sa Final Four), napunta pa kami sa ilalim. Meron Siyang gusto pakita na in a way na ‘pag umangat uli kung sakali, mas buo pa at may development na makikita sa mga players,” said head coach RJ Or-
“Sa
Barça Academy Manila opens official home at Arca South Pitch
TAGUIG City, Philippines – Barça Academy Manila officially inaugurated its new home at the Arca South Football Field, marking a major milestone for FC Barcelona’s global youth football network and for the growth of grassroots football in the Philippines.
The event was graced by Barça Legend and current Barça Academy Sports Director Sergi Barjuan, alongside Fran Pujol, Technical Head of Barça Academy Asia & Middle East. Their presence underscored the club’s deep commitment to developing Filipino youth through the Barça Way—a football philosophy that blends technical excellence with the core values of respect, effort, ambition, teamwork, and humility.
Fresh from celebrating its first anniversary and the completion of its new home pitch, Barça Academy Manila welcomed hundreds of young footballers and families who gathered for the historic occasion. The day featured friendly matches, a community picnic,
and a ceremonial opening that turned the Arca South grounds into a lively celebration of passion, teamwork, and unity.
“This inauguration represents a lasting commitment to Filipino youth— giving them the chance to learn, grow, and live under the model and the values that define FC Barcelona,” said Joel Llinas, Local Project Director of Barça Academy Manila. Through the Academy, Filipino
players gain access to FC Barcelona’s global training network and unique opportunities such as the Barça Academy World Cup in Barcelona and elite training camps at La Masia, the club’s famed youth development center that produced football greats like Lionel Messi, Andrés Iniesta, and Xavi Hernández.
Beyond Metro Manila, the Academy has already begun expanding its reach with regional camps held in Cebu and an upcoming program in Davao this
REYMON Jaraula and Sarah Ababa head into this week’s ICTSI Apo Golf and Country Club Classic with momentum on their side – but under starkly different circumstances. Their recent victories at the Del Monte Championship couldn’t have been more contrasting. Jaraula authored a near-flawless performance to clinch the men’s title in emphatic fashion, while Ababa staged a dramatic late rally before emerging victorious in a pressure-packed playoff. For Jaraula, his Del Monte triumph was nothing short of a statement. Playing on his home turf in Bukidnon, the soft-spoken pro closed out the tournament with a blistering, bogey-free 9-under-par 63 – punctuated by a lasthole eagle – to set a new course record and dismantle a strong field.
gent are Nixon Curioso and Rodolfo Enrique Rivera, with National Master Almario Marlon Bernardino Jr. and Byron Gabrentina Villar serving as part of the coaching staff.
As Antonio embarks on this latest international challenge, he carries not only his vast experience but also the hopes of Philippine chess fans eager to see one of the country’s greatest players finally capture a world senior championship title.
December, reflecting its goal to nurture talent nationwide.
Barça Academy Manila is part of FC Barcelona’s network of more than 30 academies worldwide, which train tens of thousands of young players each year. These programs don’t just focus on technical skill but also emphasize personal growth, discipline, and the joy of the game—the very principles that define the club’s success both on and off the pitch.
He didn’t just win, he dominated, finishing nine shots ahead of Negros Occidental leg winner Rupert Zaragosa and ending the latter’s bid for backto-back titles. The performance was a culmination of confidence, familiarity and pure execution.
But at Apo, the narrative shifts.
“This will be a different challenge,” said Jaraula. “Iba ang course sa Del Monte, iba rin sa Davao. Di pwedeng mag-expect ng sobra, but I’ll just try to enjoy the game, play pressure-free, and see where it takes me.”
Unfamiliarity with the Apo layout and the potential presence of a partisan crowd adds an extra layer of difficulty.
Yet, if he carries over even half of the form he showed at Del Monte, Jaraula will remain one of the men to beat in the P3.5 million eighth leg of the Philippine Golf Tour.
SEVERAL prominent officials from the sports and tourism sectors will be presenters at the Sports Tourism Forum on November 7, 2025, in Clark Freeport, Pampanga.
Sports and tourism stakeholders from national sports associations and clubs, local government units, hotel and resort executives, sports and MICE event organizers, sports facility managers and corporate sponsors from across the country are expected to attend this one day forum, organized by Philippine Sports Turismo Alliance, Inc. supported by Clark Development Corporation, Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotion Board, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority and Clark International Aviation Authority.
Strongly supporting the call of President Ferdinand “Bong Bong” Marcos, Jr, to make sports events a catalyst to boost tourism in the country, Sports Turismo Alliance, Inc. has intensified its role in organizing a series of fora across the country with the support of the Department of Tourism, under the leadership of Secretary Christina G Frasco.
“The Philippines is off the starting blocks to prove itself as a great sports host country. International sporting events such as the FIBA World Cup in 2023, the recently concluded FIVB World Championship and the forthcoming FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup are great testimonies of our capability and popularity as a sports hub,” explained Charles Lim, President and CEO of Sports Turismo Alliance, Inc. as well as founder and chairman of the Philippine Sports Tourism Awards.
A power-packed panel of international and local speakers, headed by the President of the International Children’s Games, Mr. Igor Topole will further intensify the Philippines thrust in sports tourism.
Other speakers invited include Ms. Maggie Hsu the Sports Administrator of the Ministry of Education, Taiwan, Mr. Patrick Gregorio, Chairman, Philippine Sports Commission; Ms. Princess Galura, President and General Manager, Sunrise Events, Inc., Mr. Carlo Sampan, Milo Marathon Program Director and Mr. Robby Alabado, Director Department of Tourism
“Maximizing and sustaining our sports programs and facilities is still a challenge for major sports hubs while local sports tournaments can be developed in small cities into national and international events. These are topics we will be discussing at the Forum,” revealed Lim.
Economic, cultural, socio, environmental and sports development impact on host cities will also be tackled by the panel of expert speakers.
Clark Development Corporation will host a cultural dinner closing ceremony at the launching of the Happening On The Green for all delegates.
On the other side, Ababa pulled off one of the most stunning turnarounds in recent Ladies PGT memory. Trailing by five strokes with just nine holes to play at Del Monte, the Davao native mounted a ferocious back-nine charge. A composed final stretch and a coldblooded finish in the second playoff hole stunned Chanelle Avaricio, who had appeared headed for a comfortable win.
“Hindi ko na talaga inexpect na manalo,” said Ababa. “Sobrang layo ni Chanelle. Pero nung nagka-chance, I grabbed it.” Now, she returns to a course that holds both sentimental and competitive value. Apo Golf is not only her home course, it’s where she honed her game growing up – and where she clinched her third career title last year by holding off Mafy Singson.
Ron Galve and Bien Miraflor of UST eye revenge against De La Salle rivals.
milla.
tingin ko itong version na meron ‘yung mga players ko ngayon
-- hindi man guaranteed na sila ‘yung mananalo, they will compete against La Salle. Win or lose, it’s OK. Pero
kung makapasok ng Final Four, no one knows, depende talaga kung paano maglalaro ‘yung mga players.”
Barça Academy Manila was officially inaugurated at its home turf in Arca South Football Field, Taguig City, led by Barça Legend and Sports Director Sergi Barjuan. The event gathered hundreds of young footballers eager to train under FC Barcelona’s world-renowned football philosophy.
Reymon Jaraula (center) holds his trophy as he poses with Reynaldo Doria (right), chief of Supply Operations at Del Monte Philippines, and Ronnel Javier, head of Media Relations at ICTSI, after clinching the ICTSI Del Monte Championship in recordbreaking fashion.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
Torregosa, Kiplagat triumph in rain-soaked Asics MTT PH
ON a rain-slicked track under gray October skies, two unlikely champions turned the inaugural ASICS META: Time: Trials (MTT) Philippines into a moving portrait of personal triumph and unshakable resolve.
Artjoy Torregosa of Butuan and Kenya’s Kelvin Kiplagat emerged as surprise winners in the women’s and men’s 10K events, respectively, besting a stacked Open field of elite and up-and-coming runners at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite Sunday.
What began as a performance-driven, data-centric race ended as a deeply human story of emotion, adversity and the power of heart over hype.
Torregosa, in particular, delivered one of the most stirring moments of the race. Running not just against the clock but against grief, the unheralded athlete stormed past more favored contenders – including national team standout Joida Gagnao – to claim the women’s overall crown with a time of 36 minutes and 23 seconds.
Tears streamed down her face as she crossed the finish line, almost indistinguishable from the rain that had begun falling steadily midway through the race. For Torregosa, the downpour was more than a challenge – it became a fitting backdrop for her emotional breakthrough.
“Hindi ko po talaga ini-expect (I really didn’t expect this),” said Torregosa. “May mga Philippine team na kasali at hindi naman ako part ng team. Strategy ko lang ay sumabay sa kanila. Pero nung last lap na, nung tinanong ko sa sarili ko kung kaya ko pa, doon ko binuhos lahat ng power ko (There were members of the Philippine national team in the race, and I’m not part of that team. My only strategy was to keep up with them. But in the last lap, when I asked myself if I still had something left, that’s when I gave it everything I had).”
It was more than just a strategic gamble. Torregosa had been carrying
a quiet pain throughout her training –the loss of her grandfather, whose wake she missed to prepare for the race. The win, she said, was for him.
“Emotional po ako kasi inialay ko itong takbo sa lolo ko, who passed away. Hindi ako nakapunta sa libing kasi may training ako (“I’m emotional because I dedicated this run to my grandfather, who passed away. I wasn’t able to attend his funeral because I had training),” she said, her voice cracking. Despite being drenched and drained, Torregosa held back nothing in the final lap, drawing on reserves of strength and sorrow to push past the finish line.
On the men’s side, Kiplagat, a firsttime Philippine competitor, defied both unfamiliarity and a crack field to post a victorious 30:32 finish, holding off local aces Richard Salaño (30:41) and Sonny Wagdos (31:22), who had re-
cently won in Thailand.
“It felt kind of funny and exciting at the same time,” said Kiplagat, who hails from the high-altitude town of Eldama Ravine. “This is my first time racing in the Philippines, and the weather was challenging, my body was hurting. But I gave it everything.”
Like Torregosa, Kiplagat was not among the pre-race favorites. But his grit and composure allowed him to keep pace with the leaders before making a decisive move in the final stretch. His goal, he said, is to follow the path of greatness carved by compatriots like Eliud Kipchoge and Daniel Simiu.
Both champions walked away with ₱100,000 each – but more than the cash prize, they left an imprint of perseverance on a day when the rain tried but failed to steal the spotlight.
Despite the weather, the event – part
of the global ASICS META: Time: Trials series – was hailed as a resounding success. Over 3,000 runners of all backgrounds turned out for the precision-focused loop course, energized by hydration stations, elite pacers and a cheering crowd that braved the storm to support every stride.
From elite competitors to weekend warriors, all shared a common goal: to beat their personal bests. But it was Torregosa and Kiplagat who went above and beyond, reminding everyone that sometimes, the most powerful performances come from the most unexpected places.
Rounding out the Top 10 in the women’s division were Christine Hallasgo (37:07), Jessa Mae Roda (38:45), Nicole Diloy (38:57), Michelle Zamora (39:22), Macrose Dichoso (40:18), Melljoy Gonzales (40:35), and Maricar Camacho (40:54).
Suzara wants nothing but gold in SEA Games beach volley
ANNIE Mitchem’s quiet confidence has become the spark that powered the Akari Chargers’ pair of statement wins early into the 2025 Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference. With the American spiker at the helm, Akari surged to a 2-0 start in Pool B, headlined by their first-ever franchise victory against the Creamline Cool Smashers after 10 matches.
Playing in her first official PVL match, Mitchem made quite the impression against the Cool Smashers, putting up a game-high 33 points, including the game-winning kill in Akari’s 23-25, 25-23, 30-28, 23-25, 1512 breakthrough victory over the defending champions.
Three days later, Mitchem remained as a steady contributor, pouring in 17 points and 15 digs in another five-setter escape for Akari over the Chery Tiggo EV Crossovers, 25-11, 22-25, 29-27, 17-
ALAS Pilipinas targets nothing less than a gold medal in the beach volleyball competitions of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games this December in Thailand.
“Gold is what we’re aiming for in Thailand,” Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Ramon “Tats” Suzara said on the sidelines of the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge at the Nuvali Sands Court by Ayala Land in Santa Rosa, Laguna, on Sunday.
“We have plenty of [SEA Games] bronze and we know it is difficult, but we believe it’s possible,” said Suzara, also the president of the Asian Volleyball
25, 15-7. The 31-year-old American, who played in Indonesia, Turkiye, Brazil, and Italy, is having a great time in her first stint in the Philippines.
“I’m really happy and proud of us because this team is really good,” said Mitchem.
“This is like one of the [leagues I played before] in Brazil and Indonesia.
The crowd was big like this. The fans are really interactive and like screaming so it’s really fun. I enjoyed it a lot.”
For her solid start, Mitchem was rewarded with the first PVL Press Corps Player of the Week presented by Pilipinas Live for the period of October 9 to 18 in the import-laden tournament.
The towering hitter says that she draws confidence from Akari’s pregame preparations, as well as the time she is spending with her new teammates.
Confederation. “I’m hoping they will be able to convert what our athletes learned here in Nuvali to a SEA Games gold medal.” Thailand and Indonesia are the dominant force in SEA Games beach volleyball with eight gold medals each in the women and men categories, respectively.
The Philippines, on the other hand, has six bronze medals— three in each gender—since the discipline became a medal sport in 2003.
Alas Pilipinas’s beach volleyball head coach, Brazilian Joao “Kioday” Luciano Simao Barbosa, meanwhile, announced the pairs for the SEA Games—Sisi
Rondina and Bernadeth Pons and Dij Rodriguez and Sunny Villapando in the women’s and James Buytrago and Ran Abdilla, Ronniel Rosales and Rancel Vergara in the men’s contest.
Each country is allowed two pairs in the Thailand games which start with the opening ceremony on December 9 with beach volleyball serving from December 12 to 19 at the Huamark Sports Complex in Bangkok.
“We’re working so hard to fight for the gold. All the opponents are strong and we have a few months to prepare,” Kioday said. “Step by step, we’re going to reach for that gold.”
FEU Lady Tams surge to solo 4th after 81-50 trouncing of UE
VICTORIA Pasilang and one-anddone guard Shem Abatayo combined forces as Far Eastern University rolled past winless University of the East, 8159, to return to its winning ways in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Tournament, Sunday afternoon at the SMART Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. Reeling from a lopsided 66-104 loss to perennial contenders University of Santo Tomas last Wednesday, Abatayo and Pasilang quickly regained their composure, helping the Lady Tamaraws solidify their hold on solo fourth place in the eight-team field with an even 3-3 win-loss record—already matching their entire win total from last year just six games into Season 88. FEU will have a chance to surpass its Season 87 total if it defeats Ateneo in the final day of the first round on Wednesday.
Abatayo bounced back from a seven-point outing against UST with 20 points, built on five first-half triples, along with eight rebounds, five assists, one steal, and one block. Pasilang broke out with 19 points on an efficient 8-of10 shooting clip, adding nine rebounds and two assists.
“As we’ve said sa coaches, we keep telling them na we want to further surpass our standings from last year. We don’t just want to settle for less. Happy naman kami sa performance and everyone got a chance to play,” assistant coach Jasmine Yam said.
By CJ Cortez
WILL the stars finally align for Aurora Gaming PH this season as they chase their long-awaited Immortal Cup crown?
Head coach Aniel “Master the Basics” Jiandani and assistant coach Dexter “Dex Star” Alaba certainly believe the time has come. In an exclusive interview, the Aurora Gaming coaches shared insights into their ongoing preparations for the upcoming playoffs at the Cuneta Astrodome.
“Goods naman ‘yung preparation kasi hanggang ngayon hinahanap pa rin namin ‘yung possible na butas ng ginagawa namin,” Jiandani said. “Unti-unti na-sosolusyunan naman namin, and I think ‘yung meta ngayon, balanced para sa lahat.” Having secured an upper bracket slot, Aurora Gaming now awaits their playoff opponent between Twisted Minds PH and TNC Pro Team. When asked about the playoff bracket, both coaches admitted they were caught off guard. “Kahit sino siguro nasa posisyon nila, masasabing mas mahirap talaga sa kabila,” Jiandani remarked. “Kung titignan mo, ‘yung tatlong nasa kabilang bracket, puro nag-champion na. Dito sa bracket namin, mga hindi pa nag-cha-champion. Parang ‘championship bracket’ talaga ‘yung
Victoria Pasilang attempts a jumper
For her stellar start, Mitchem earned the season’s first PVL Press Corps Player of the Week citation, presented by Pilipinas Live, for the period of October 9 to 18 in the import-laden tournament.
Artjoy Torregosa of Butuan and Kenya’s Kelvin Kiplagat surprise the field as they emerge victors in the women’s and men’s races, respectively.
Dexter “Dex Star” Alaba (Keft) and Aniel “Master the Basics” Jiandani (Right) Courtesy: Richard Esguerra/ MPL Philippines
Tatz Suzara
Meralco to expand underground cable network in business districts
1,500 km. 2030
New underground cables planned
Target for new underground cables
567 km.
Existing underground cables
By Thony Rose Lesaca
By Alena Mae S. Flores
PMeralco first vice president and head of networks Froilan Savet told reporters that the project is part of the company’s planned First Regulatory Period (1RP) capital expenditure (capex) application, set to be filed with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) in January.
“In our case, we have a plan for the 1RP in our capex of an additional 1,500 circuit km of cables, including the greenfield in coordination with real estate developers plus the sites we have identified that we can underground,” Savet said.
The underground cables will be
strategically located in high-value areas including financial districts, commercial centers, heritage sites, tourist spots and areas frequently impacted by storms, which require improved resiliency, he said.
Savet noted that undergrounding power lines is also pursued upon request by local government units (LGUs) or real estate developers.
“It works best where it makes technical and economic sense which is typically in dense or high-value areas such as financial districts, business centers, tourist zones and heritage sites where space is limited and aesthetics are important,” he said.
of endAugust from P1.07 trillion in the same period last year. Digital banks’ assets also reached P141.77 billion, up 34.55 percent from P105.37 billion in the previous year. Meanwhile, the BSP has yet to update its third-quarter data for rural and cooperative banks, whose total assets stood at P385.45 billion as of end-June. Michael Ricafort, a chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC), said the bank asset growth was “still better than gross domestic product” growth due to the recent policy rate cuts imposed by the BSP, which further lowered the target reverse repurchase rate to 4.75 percent.
“[These] infused more than P700 billion that increased banks’ loanable funds and also reduced borrowing costs that increased demand for bank loans that grew by at least 11 percent year-onyear in recent months,” said Ricafort. He said the faster loan growth largely contributed to the total asset growth of the local banking system, along with the continued growth in bank deposits and banks’ net income.
“For the coming months, continued growth in the local economy, [which is] still among the fastest in Asia, as well as possible future Fed and BSP rate cuts would continue to sustain relatively faster growth in banks’ total assets, as supported by the sustained growth in loans, deposits, earnings, and investments,” said Ricafort.
THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) reported a strong financial performance as of August 2025, recording P100.02 billion in net income, with nearly half of it derived from investments.
The fund’s total assets also climbed to a record P1.92 trillion, demonstrating the success of GSIS’s prudent strategy in growing the contributions of government workers.
GSIS president and generalmanager Jose Arnulfo Veloso said
this performance shows members’ funds are not only secure but continuously growing, with August financial records indicating that half of its total income now comes from investments.
“This means that GSIS is not only protecting our members’ contributions but also growing them through strategic and responsible investing,” Veloso said.
The financial strength translates into concrete benefits for the GSIS’s
PBEd seeks education budget disclosure
THE Philippines’ planned 2026 education spending, set to hit a record P1.28 trillion, has prompted an industry-led group to call for full transparency and a detailed breakdown of allocations to ensure the increased funding translates into real improvements in education outcomes.
Philippine Business for Education (PBEd) executive director Bal Camua welcomed the growing investment, which House Committee on Appropriations chair Mikaela Suansing said would finally breach the global benchmark of allocating 4 to 6 percent of a country’s gross domestic product (GDP) to education, a standard the Philippines has consistently fallen short of in
previous years.
“The growing investment in the education sector is a welcome development but without clear data on how funds will be distributed and used, it remains difficult to assess whether the budget will lead to meaningful improvements in learning outcomes,” Camua said.
The budget is included in House Bill No. 4058, or the 2026 General Appropriations Bill, recently approved by the House of Representatives.
Camua said that given most Filipino learners depend on the public education system, “decades of underinvestment in education has significantly hindered national development and economic competitiveness.”
1.7 million members and pensioners. Veloso affirmed the organization’s commitment.
“Behind every number are teachers and other government workers, whose trust we hold sacred. We will continue to make every peso count and deliver true ‘Ginhawa for All’,” he said.
For public school teacher Veverlie Padernal from Bukidnon, GSIS programs like the MPL Flex loan made a life-changing difference.
“Because of the MPL Flex, I
was able to get a house, get land, plus I also have a motorcycle parts business,” she said. Padernal’s use of the MPL Flex through the GSIS Touch app helped her family rebuild after her husband’s accident, allowing them to avoid high-interest debts. Her story reflects the core purpose of GSIS’s financial stability: ensuring member contributions are safe, growing and actively improving their lives. Thony Rose Lesaca
PERFORMANCE BONDS. Department of Public Works and Highways
First Balfour, Leighton Asia start work on North-South rail station
A JOINT venture between Lopez Group’s engineering arm First Balfour and Hong Kong construction giant Leighton Asia has started erecting the diaphragm-wall for a crucial underground train station that is part of the Philippines’ largest railway venture, the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) project.
The Leighton-First Balfour Joint Venture (LFBJV) is constructing the reinforced concrete diaphragmwall which will provide support and foundational stability for the Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) train station underneath Bicutan in Taguig City. The NSCR, a 147-kilometer (km) urban rail system, will span from Clark Freeport in Pampanga to
Calamba, Laguna, once completed. It is designed to cut travel time and carry up to 800,000 daily commuters, with trains running at speeds up to 130 km per hour. The underground FTI station will serve as an intermodal transfer hub connecting the ground-level and elevated sections of the NSCR with the underground Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP). The MMSP, another railway project currently under construction, is a 33km. line designed to ease commuting between Valenzuela City and Bicutan. Constructing the FTI station is part of the NSCR 03-B segment, which the Department of Transportation–Project Management Office (DOTRPMO) awarded to the LFBJV in 2023.
The multi-billion-peso segment covers civil engineering, tunnel construction and building works for a 6.1-km. railway segment. The section consists of 4.7
FILM EXHIBIT. Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) administrator and chief executive Hussein Pangandaman (left) and Office of the Administrator group head Percival Peralta (second from left) view the entries of the local producers and artists at the opening of the film exhibit during the 2025 AFAB Film Festival Premiere Night and Film Judging on Oct. 14, 2025 at AFAB Auditorium in Mariveles, Bataan. Joseph Muego
MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2025 extrastory2000@gmail.com
PH stocks seen moving sideways ahead of US Fed decision
SHARE prices are expected to remain in sideways trading as the market awaits catalysts that could boost investor sentiment.
This week, First Metro Investments Corp. (FMIC) said investors will focus on key economic data, such as the Philippine budget balance and the U.S. Federal Reserve’s policy decision.
FMIC said both developments could potentially provide a stimulus for the market.
With sentiment still fragile, FMIC expects market support to be at 6,000 while resistance is at 6,200.
It noted that the market has been moving within that narrow range for the past several weeks.
“Until then the market stands still— steady yet trembling beneath faint aftershocks of caution,” FMIC said.
FMIC also maintained its year-end stock market close target of 6,900.
Last week, the bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) climbed 0.86 percent, or 51.74 points, to close at 6,089.53 as investors remained cautious amid lingering global risks.
FMIC noted that renewed fears over U.S.-China trade tensions and the ongoing U.S. government shutdown tempered the local stock market’s rally.
“Markets trembled as fears from U.S. regional banks’ credit woes echoed across Wall Street, shaking global sentiment,” FMIC said.
Average value turnover thinned at P6.6 billion, down from the previous week’s average of P8.34 billion.
Jenniffer B.
Austria
KFC SAN RAFAEL.
KFC opens its first store in San Rafael, Bulacan, located at the Mikeson Building in Brgy. GalasMaasim. KFC Philippines FMD director Adrian Galindo; Mikeson director/treasurer Peter Alvin Violago; San Rafael, Bulacan Mayor Cipriano Violago; Mikeson director/finance Cristina Violago; Mikeson president/franchisee Avelino Violago; Baliuag, Bulacan Mayor Sonia Estrella; and KFC Philippines operations manager Gina Domingo, lead the ribboncutting rites.
DMCI Holdings prepares for leadership succession
By Jenniffer B. Austria
CONGLOMERATE DMCI Holdings Inc. is preparing to deliberate on succession planning as part of its governance process, with discussions expected to take place toward the end of next year.
This is as current DMCI chairman, president and chief executive Isidro Consunji hinted plans to retire as head of conglomerate.
“DMCI Holdings is undertaking succession planning as part of its governance process, guided by merit, values, principles, and continuity of the corporate strategy,” the company said statement sent to Manila Standard.
“The Board of Directors is expected to deliberate on the matter toward
the end of next year,” it added.
DMCI Holdings is the parent firm of several companies engaged in construction, real estate, power, mining, and water services.
Consunji, 77, has served as the head of the corporation for 28 years, since 1995. He also holds key positions in several listed and non-listed companies including Semirara Mining and Power Corp., CEMEX Holdings Philippines, Inc. and Atlas
Consolidated Mining and Development Corp.
In his recent speech during the Financial Executive Institute of the Philippines, Consunji hinted plans to step back from active management in DMCI and focus on the family’s agriculture ventures.
“Agriculture has one of the highest poverty rates in the country at around 27 percent. So our goal is to develop marginal land, which is denuded, logged-over land, where there are very few economic activities, and turning idle land into real livelihoods,” he said.
While the family had once operated logging areas in Mindanao, Consunji said the group has converted them into plantations for rubber, palm oil, coffee, and durian.
Adrian A. Mabalay
Aboitiz Equity Ventures chief reputation and sustainability officer Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar shares the Philippine perspective on building credible, inclusive carbon markets during a high-level panel discussion at the Malaysia Carbon Market Forum 2025. Aboitiz Group’s participation in the forum underscores the private sector’s crucial role in shaping Southeast Asia’s carbon future.
By Darwin G. Amojelar
GLOBE Telecom saw an 18 percent drop in total fiber cut incidents in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year, driven by sustained network resiliency efforts, tighter security measures and strengthened partnerships with communities and local government units (LGUs).
The improvement underscores the success of Globe’s Fiber Cut Task Force (FCTF), a cross-functional initiative launched in 2024 to address the rising number of fiber cuts that previously affected customer connectivity and experience.
“The improvements demonstrate Globe’s commitment to ensuring a consistent and reliable network for all our customers,” said Joel Agustin, senior vice president and head of service planning and engineering.
“A reliable network is essential to support the country’s growing digital economy, and these results affirm that our proactive approach is delivering measurable results,” he added.
Since its inception, the task force has implemented key measures to prevent fiber disruptions, such as enhancing cable layout design methodology to ensure existing and upcoming aerial and underground fiber layout are resilient against roadworks and external threats. Globe also rolled out infrastructure fortification projects, completing 1,500 kilometers of underground fiber facilities nationwide. This helped prevent more than 192 fiber cut incidents and network disruptions. Through its proactive preventive maintenance in high-risk or “chronic” grids, Globe was able to reduce recurring incidents by up to 93 percent across monitored areas.
Cable theft and pilferage remain top causes of intentional fiber cuts. Globe has taken a two-pronged approach focused on community protection and partnership.
Through the CCTV deterrent program, live CCTV cameras were installed in theft-prone areas like Barangay Tatalon, Quezon City, which led to an 80 percent drop in incidents, prompting expansion to other parts of Quezon City, Manila, Pasig and Makati.
How Yardstick Coffee raised the bar for Philippine business culture
IF THERE is a Michelin-starred coffee shop, it is Yardstick.
More than two months ago, my students, Kenneth, Bea, and Ely, introduced me to Yardstick Coffee in Makati. I’ve heard enough “Yardssshhtickkk parehhh” to last me several lifetimes. Alas! I took the bait.
I am the type who orders the same thing at the same restaurants for years. So, trying a new coffee shop felt like a major life decision. But here I am, basically living at their Esteban branch, grading papers as I inhale cappuccino fumes like oxygen.
Yardstick actually walks the walk. It is proving that you can make money, but at the same time not being terrible to your employees, suppliers, and community. GREEN LIGHT
It turns out, I picked a good time to develop this habit. Yardstick earlier this year ranked 18th in the World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops. The name “Yardstick,” which was literally named after the thing that measures everything else, reflected their bold ambition to set a benchmark for the coffee industry in the Philippines. That’s right, a Filipino coffee company beat thousands of pretentious European cafés and hipster Brooklyn roasteries. Not bad for a country where instant coffee used to be considered fancy.
The kids on TikTok are losing their minds over this place. Just a few days before I wrote this article, I saw a video showing, “Ghaggi! U’ve never tried Yardshtick? Well, zahbagay, ifykyk lang parang shang shecret spoht in Makati.” I had to Google what half of that conyo meant. Gen Z has turned ordering coffee here into some kind
of social media performance sensation.
Here is what makes Yardstick different from our typical coffee shop success story. When Andre Chanco and his friends Jessica Lee and Kevin Tang started this company in 2013, they did not just want to sell expensive coffee to people who use “notes of stone fruit” in regular conversation. They wanted to build something that would change how Philippine businesses think about, well, everything.
Let us talk about their employees. Most coffee shops treat baristas like they are temporary placeholders until “real” careers come along. Not Yardstick. They have this thing called C.A.F.E. values (Customercentric, Always on fire, Focused, and Einstein approach to problem-solving). Your barista today could be your HR manager tomorrow. They have created career paths where making lattes can lead to running sales departments. They also run something called Y.A.R.D., which is basically coffee university. They teach anyone who wants to learn about brewing, roasting, and why your coffee tastes like disappointment when you make it at home. They are making the entire Philippine coffee scene better by sharing their knowledge. It is like if Jollibee taught everyone how to make the best-tasting Chickenjoy.
About those coffee beans, people got
mad at Yardstick for initially importing coffee. In a country that grows coffee! The audacity! But Chanco had a point. He wanted to show Filipinos what Colombian and Ethiopian coffee tasted like, not because foreign is better, but because choice is good. These days, they pay local farmers premium prices, sometimes more than the coffee technically deserves. Why? Because paying farmers well today means better coffee tomorrow. It is like investing in your future happiness, one bean at a time. Their slogan, “Coffee is our love language,” sounds cheesy until you see it in action. Each of their branches looks completely different, but they all follow three rules: express what they do, help customers escape reality, and be better than the last shop they built. No cookie-cutter stores here. They want you to stay, work, chat, maybe have an existential crisis over your fourth espresso. Whatever works for you. I teach Sustainability Management and
Corporate Social Responsibility. So, I have seen every company claim they are saving the world while mostly saving their profit margins. But Yardstick actually walks the walk. It is proving that you can make money, but at the same time not being terrible to your employees, suppliers, and community. What is the lesson here? Maybe Philippine businesses do not need to copy Silicon Valley or Singapore to succeed. We can build something uniquely ours that happens to be world-class. Treating people well, supporting local farmers, and creating community spaces is not just nice. It is smart business. Or, maybe, I am overthinking this because I have had too much coffee today. Who knows? Maybe “Coffee is our love language” is not just marketing. Maybe it is a business philosophy that actually works.
The author can be found most afternoons at Yardstick Coffee’s Esteban branch in Makati, allegedly working but mostly people-watching and admiring baristas who treat coffee-making like art. After all, coffee is their love language. He can be reached at adrian.mabalay@dlsu. edu.ph.
The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.
CARBON MARKET FORUM.
Gov’t to tackle MRT-3 privatization
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) plans to decide on the privatization bidding mode for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) operations and maintenance (O&M) contract by 2027.
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the decision on the privatization bidding mode—either unsolicited or solicited—for the MRT-3 O&M contract will be finalized in either April or August 2027. Lopez also noted that someone submitted an unsolicited proposal for the MRT-3 O&M, though he did not dis-
PH mangoes debut in Italy, boosted by strong gov’t support
By Othel V. Campos
P HILIPPINE mangoes took center stage Oct. 12 at the “Serbisyo Caravan” in Rome, Italy.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco
Tiu Laurel Jr. made a special stop at the mango booth during World Food Forum events at the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters, where he met Filipino entrepreneurs behind the country’s first commercial shipment of fresh mangoes to Italy.
“We’re here to help consolidate premium Filipino produce for export,” Tiu Laurel said, linking the initiative to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s goal of expanding markets, raising farmers’ incomes and creating more jobs at home.
Philippine mango exporters began their pioneering venture in May 2025, bringing a taste of home to the growing Filipino community in Europe. Their success with mangoes has inspired them to explore exports of other Philippine fruits such as lanzones, rambutan, dragon fruit and pili nuts, as well as processed delicacies, though high airfreight costs remain a continuing challenge.
Agriculture attaché Josyline Javelosa, who has been assisting the group, noted that targeted and time-bound government interventions can strengthen the supply chain between Filipino producers and overseas markets.
“The Filipino community in Rome craves the authentic flavor, texture, aroma and quality that only Philippine mangoes can deliver—something that cheaper alternatives just can’t match,” she said.
Philippine Chamber of Commerce Italy Chairman Dennis Carrascoso reported that their fresh mangoes sold out within hours of arrival.
He credited the strong support of the Filipino community and lauded the Philippine Embassy in Rome, led by Ambassador Neal Imperial, for their assistance in promoting Philippine produce in Italy.
The Serbisyo Caravan, spearheaded by the Department of Migrant Workers, also provided vital public services for Filipinos in Italy, including assistance from the Philippine Embassy, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG Fund and National ID registration.
close the proponent’s identity.
He said the agency’s transaction adviser, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is currently studying both the unsolicited and solicited bidding modes for the MRT-3’s O&M contract.
The DOTr earlier extended the contract of Sumitomo Corp., the current maintenance provider for
the MRT-3, for another year or until July 2026. The DOTr, Sumitomo and Oriental Consultants Global signed a P7.38 billion extended contract in May 2023 for the rehabilitation and maintenance of the line until July 2025.
The new contract’s scope was expanded to include extending rail lines and installing signals to the common station, which is shared with other lines, and expanding the pocket track necessary for increasing the number of railcars in a train from 3 to 4, in addition to main line maintenance. The MRT-3 system’s assets are now
DA dubs Batanes as organic farming practicing province
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) has declared Batanes an “Organic Farming Practitioner Province,” a recognition expected to boost local livelihoods and strengthen the province’s position as a leading agrotourism destination.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. signed the administrative order on Oct. 8, officially recognizing Batanes as “organic by default.”
“This designation affirms Batanes’ commitment to sustainable farming that ensures food security, protects the environment and empowers communities,” Laurel said, adding that it will open more opportunities for technical, financial and market support.
Owing to its geographic isolation and deeprooted farming traditions, Batanes’ 13,208.90 hectares of agricultural land, covering both crops and livestock, have remained free from synthetic chemicals.
The province’s 4,126 farmers and 35 cooperatives practice organic agriculture exclusively, guided by local ordinances and provincial legislation consistent with Republic Act No. 10068 or the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010.
All six municipalities — Basco, Uyugan, Sabtang, Ivana, Itbayat and Mahatao — have institutionalized organic farming through local ordinances.
Model initiatives such as the Naidi Multi-
Commodity Project and the Tukon Agro-Tourism Site showcase natural farming methods and promote community-based food production. Batanes’ organic produce, including garlic, sweet potatoes, onions, and beef cattle, not only sustains local food supply but is also gaining premium market value outside the province, encouraging more farmers to participate. Othel V. Campos
fully owned by the Philippine government after the build-lease-transfer (BLT) agreement between the government and Metro Rail Transit Corp. (MRTC) for the line expired on July 15, 2025.
Prior to the asset transfer, the government operated the MRT-3, while the MRTC, owned by Metro Rail Transit Holdings II Inc. led by businessman Robert John Sobrepeña, was responsible for the design and construction of the EDSA rail transit system. Formed in 1995, the MRTC started building the MRT-3 in October 1996, completed it in December 1999 and started full operations in July 2020.
LAGUNA HOSPITAL. Laguna Governor Sol Aragones shows the perspective of the planned three-story building at JP Rizal Memorial District Hospital.
FRLD MEETING. The Board of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) concludes landmark 7th meeting, by launching historic $250 million initiative for frontline communities. Leading the discussions on Day 1 of the meeting are (from left)FRLD executive director Ibrahima Cheikh Diong, co-chairs of the Fund Jean-Christophe Donnellier and Richard Sherman, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla. DENR Photo.
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez
IN BRIEF
Chile plans to export 8,000 tons of pork to PH by 2026
By Othel V. Campos
CHILE aims to export up to 8,000 metric tons of pork to the Philippines by 2026, as it seeks to expand its presence in the country’s food market and boost agricultural trade under the proposed Philippines–Chile Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
ChilePork president Juan Carlos Domínguez announced the target during the culmination of a three-day Chilean trade mission to the Philippines, held on Oct. 13 to 15. Domínguez noted that pork shipments to the Southeast Asian nation have steadily increased since the market opened in 2020.
“We started with about 300 metric tons in the first year, then 2,000,
DOTr chief defers procurement of P50-m vehicles
By Darwin Amojelar
DEPARTMENT of Transportation
(DOTr) acting Secretary Giovanni Lo-
pez has deferred the procurement of new vehicles for the agency’s central office, and instead reallocated P50 million to improve the facilities of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) offices for customers.
Lopez issued a memorandum dated Oct. 16, saying that “in compliance with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to give the Filipino people the public transport and services that they need and deserve, the DOTr together with its sectoral offices such as the LTO and LTFRB shall undertake measures to improve the delivery of services including the enhancement of facilities used by the general public.’ He said the reallotment would “improve existing waiting/client areas in their respective offices.” This may include the installation of air conditioning units, provision of water dispensers ang sufficient chairs, among others.
“The client who gave the feedback is right. We here in the government are just servants. As the President said, we are the Filipinos’ servants, not their lords,” Lopez said.
“We are doing this because it is more important to us at the DOTr that our countrymen have proper facilities. There is air conditioning, comfortable whether it is sunny or rainy. There is drinking water if they are thirsty and customers are comfortable even if they are waiting. Those are more important than new vehicles that can be procured even next year,” he said.
5,000, and now 6,000 metric tons this year. For 2026, we hope to reach 8,000 metric tons,” Domínguez said.
The ongoing CEPA negotiations, expected to conclude by the end of the year or early next year, are anticipated to further boost bilateral trade by reducing tariffs and opening wider market access for Chilean agricultural exports.
“Once CEPA is in place, it will not
only benefit pork exports but also open opportunities for other Chilean agricultural goods, including fresh fruits, poultry, and processed food products. We believe the Philippines can become one of our most dynamic partners in Southeast Asia,” said Dominguez.
The Philippines–Chile CEPA aims to deepen bilateral economic ties by covering trade in goods, services, investments and agricultural cooperation.
Domínguez said that while Chile cannot match major global suppliers such as the United States, Spain or Brazil in terms of output, it competes through quality, integration and traceability.
“We have only four private companies exporting pork, and each one controls every stage of production - from feed manufacturing to slaughtering and trading. This full integration ensures
perfect traceability and the highest food safety standards,” he said.
He noted that Chile’s strict sanitary and quality systems have earned international recognition from markets such as Japan and South Korea.
Tariffs on Chilean pork entering the Philippines range from 20 to 40 percent, depending on the product category. Domínguez said the trade agreement would make Chilean exports more competitive in the local market, benefiting both producers and Filipino consumers.
Chilean exporters in the delegation also expressed interest in promoting fresh fruits—particularly grapes, cherries and apples—alongside poultry and other agricultural products in the Philippines. Around 60 percent of Chile’s pork production is exported, supported by stringent oversight from Chile’s national sanitary authority.
ERC announces plan to reset power rates for private distribution utilities
By Alena Mae S. Flores
THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) said over the weekend it will soon initiate the rate reset process for all private distribution utilities (PDUs) after approving the Rationalized Rules for Setting Distribution Wheeling Rates (RRDWR).
The new framework applies to privately owned electric distribution utilities operating under the performance-based regulation (PBR) framework.
The approval of the RRDWR marks a departure from the previous regulatory periods, which were not adhered to due to suspensions or delays in the rate reset process. The RRDWR provides the methodology and process for setting the maximum allowable distribution, supply, and metering (DSM) rates of private DUs.
The ERC said the new rules supersede previous regulatory issuances and incorporate internationally recog-
RBE Holdings CEO calls for environmental accountability
THE chief executive of RBE Holdings Corp. is calling for ethical leadership and accountability in environmental protection, citing corruption and political patronage as major obstacles to sustainability in the Philippines.
Rafael Eubra Jr., president and CEO of RBE Holdings, delivered a presentation titled “Health and Environment in a Time of Corruption and Political Patronage,” where he said that sustainable development requires transparency and ethical governance. RBE Holdings’ environmental arm, APRES Solutions Inc., continues to lead initiatives focused on waste
MEAT CUTTING
management, pollution control and sustainable technology. These projects are designed to protect communities and restore public trust.
“Our efforts to preserve our country from further environmental damage are guided by passion, professionalism, and integrity,” Eubra said.
“True progress in environmental health will only be achieved when leaders act with conscience and commitment,” he said.
Under Eubra’s leadership, RBE Holdings and APRES Solutions are investing in advanced environmental technologies and waste management
systems aimed at reducing pollution, promoting resource recovery and strengthening climate resilience. These programs are intended to set new industry standards in corporate sustainability, encouraging transparency and long-term ecological responsibility.
Eubra said sustainable development requires collaboration between the government, private enterprises and local communities.
He cited the importance of shifting mindsets, transforming environmental responsibility from a regulatory obligation into a shared social mission.
nized practices to balance consumer protection with fair returns for utilities. The RRDWR defines procedures for determining revenue requirements, capital and operating expenditures, performance incentive mechanisms and annual rate adjustments, all within a streamlined and time-bound regulatory reset process.
Under the RRDWR, the ERC employs a price-cap regulation methodology, setting a maximum allowable
rate based on efficient costs, service quality targets and measurable performance indicators. This approach encourages distribution utilities to improve efficiency and reliability while maintaining affordability for consumers.
The RRDWR also addresses past delays in resetting the distribution rates for PDUs and serves as the framework for the upcoming Regulatory Reset for the First Regulatory Period (1st RP) of the First Entry Group.
Santiago, director for operations; Andy Armadillo (mascot); Mark Stephens, director for international operations; and Ninyo Dela Cruz, Texas Roadhouse R&D chef.
THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said it welcomes the high approval rating it received in the third quarter of 2025, validating its efforts to bring the benefits of science and technology and innovation to help improve the people’s daily life. The DOST and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) secured the highest approval and trust ratings among government agencies based on the Pahayag 2025 Third Quarter Survey.
The DOST ranked second with an approval rating of 59 percent and a trust rating of 40 percent, closely trailing TESDA, which topped the survey with 63 percent approval and 45 percent trust. Pu-
blicus Asia Inc. conducted the survey from Sept. 27 to 30, 2025. TESDA’s consistent delivery of technical and vocational programs that boost employability and livelihood opportunities was cited by respondents. Meanwhile, the survey attributed DOST’s high marks to its sustained performance in disaster risk reduction and early warning systems through its attached agencies, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), as well as its scholarship programs promoting science and technology education.
SSS SUBSIDY. Social Security System (SSS) vice president for Luzon Central 1 division Vilma Agapito (third from left), San Quintin Mayor Farah Lee Lumahan (fourth from left) and SSS Urdaneta acting branch head Christopher Servas (second from left) congratulate over 200 barangay health workers (BHW), barangay population workers (BPW), barangay nutrition scholars (BNS) and child development workers (CDW) of San Quintin, Pangasinan who are beneficiaries of the first memorandum of agreement in Pangasinan province under the Contribution Subsidy Provider Program (CSPP).
Rafael Eubra Jr., president and chief executive of RBE Holdings, delivers a presentation on ‘Health and Environment in a Time of Corruption and Political Patronage’, saying that sustainable development requires transparency and ethical governance.
CHAMPION. Edison Canillas (fourth from left) of Texas Roadhouse McKinley emerges as the 2025 Texas Roadhouse Philippines Meat Cutter Champion at the International Meat Cutter Challenge. With him are (from left) Cyril Reyes, director for operations at Texas Roadhouse; Mary Ann
RLC honored as CSR Company of the Year
ROBINSONS Land Corp. (RLC), through its commercial centers division Robinsons Malls, has been recognized as CSR Company of the Year Circle of Excellence Awardee at the 2025 Asia CEO Awards held on October 14 at the Grand Ballroom of Manila Marriott Hotel. The prestigious recognition honors RLC’s outstanding commitment to corporate social responsibility, sustainability, and community empowerment across the country.
The Asia CEO Awards’ Circle of Excellence celebrates organizations that exemplify business leadership and social impact in the region. Robinsons Land’s inclusion among this year’s honorees underscores its long-standing dedication to uplifting communities and embedding sustainability into its business operations.
“We are honored to receive another recognition from the esteemed Asia CEO Awards. In 2023, Robinsons Malls was also awarded the Circle of Excellence for Sustainability and the top honor Sustainability Company of the Year. These awards inspire us more to continue delivering on our commitment to build with purpose and provide a more resilient future for all the communities that we serve” says Joel Lumanlan, vice president for operations and marketing of Robinsons Malls.
RLC’s CSR portfolio reflects a holistic and inclusive approachcovering disaster response, education, public service, youth development, MSME empowerment, and environmental care. By integrating social responsibility into its business models, LC continues to demonstrate that corporate growth and community progress can go hand in hand.
Ayala Land Premier launches Laurean Residences in Makati
AYALA Land Premier, the upscale residential brand of Ayala Land Inc., has officially introduced Laurean Residences, its latest flagship development located the country’s central business district.
The project, located in Dela Rosa Gardens Makati, reflects a blend of thoughtful design, cultural heritage, and hospitality — setting a new standard for urban living in the city.
The tower is directly connected to Makati’s network of underground and elevated walkways, giving residents easy access to nearby galleries, restaurants, and lifestyle centers. Its pedestrian-friendly environment encourages residents to engage with the city while still having a quiet space to return to.
Laurean Residences rises 65 stories high and features a wide range of living spaces, from 72-square-meter suites to two- and fourbedroom units, including rare bi-level layouts.
Over half a hectare of the property is dedicated to amenities that include wellness lounges, private dining rooms, co-working spaces, and areas designed for relaxation and social connection.
The interiors were designed by Joyce Wang, an internationally recognized interior designer with projects that include The Berkeley in London, The Residences at
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, and Mott 32 in Cebu.
Wang shared that the creative direction was inspired by three main themes — chess, aviation, and fashion.
“There was a founder of Ayala Land who once compared development to a game of chess,” Wang shares. “One move leads to a bigger strategy. I found that so interesting — so we extracted that as a design language.”
Her team explored the geometry of a chessboard, combined it with the lightness and precision of modern aviation, and softened it with the flowing silhouettes of Manila fashion design. The result is a style that feels both structured and elegant.
“My belief is that space is so powerful, you don’t have to have much. You can make people feel so much,” Wang said.
With Laurean Residences, Ayala Land Premier offers more than a home — it presents a new way of living in the city, where design serves both beauty and function. The project is a reflection of the company’s ongoing commitment to creating spaces that are refined, meaningful, and lasting.
Town Center at Seafront Residences unlocks coastal business potential
ANEW investment opportunity is rising along the coast of San Juan, Batangas. The Town Center at Seafront Residences offers a rare chance for businesses and investors to grow in one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations.
With steady growth in visitors and strong demand for coastal living, this commercial hub is set to become a key part of a thriving seaside community.
Located within the master-planned Seafront Residences by Aboitiz Land, Town Center is designed to be the heart of a vibrant new coastal town.
With tourism and residential growth fueling the area, it presents a strategic location for businesses looking to establish a long-term presence in the South.
What makes the opportunity especially attractive is its exclusivity as only five prime commercial lots are available, ranging in size from 1,260 to 1,957 square meters.
Each lot is designed for visibility and accessibility, offering ideal locations for cafés, shops, restaurants, and essential services. Early investors will not only benefit from location and foot traffic but also help define the area’s identity as the community grows.
“This is a chance to become a first mover and secure a prime stake in a market on the rise,” the developer shared.
Built-in market from day one San Juan welcomed 2.5 million tourists in 2024, an 18 percent increase from the previous year. Combined with over 114,000 local households and the fast-growing community at Seafront Residences, businesses will enjoy a strong and steady customer base from day one.
The Town Center is just a fiveminute walk from Seafront Villas, low-rise condominiums that house a mix of full-time residents and weekend vacationers. With over 400 families already living in the
MEGAWORLD TOPS OFF NEW EUROPEAN-INSPIRED CONDO IN CAPITAL TOWN PAMPANGA. Real estate giant Megaworld has formally topped off the 15-story Montrose Parkview, its third residential condominium development inside its 35.6-hectare Capital Town township in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga.
development, the commercial area is well-positioned to support local demand. In addition to local residents, the commercial area is expected to benefit from consistent traffic driven by nearby resorts and beach destinations along the San Juan–Laiya corridor. The result is a unique mix of customers — from locals and homeowners to tourists and weekend visitors — creating a dependable flow of foot traffic throughout the year. A ready-to-go community
The site development is also 100 percent complete and the community’s amenities like a beach clubhouse, swimming pools, and open spaces all fully operational.
The commercial lots are flexible in design, accommodating a wide range of business concepts from retail and dining to essential services, giving investors both freedom and long-term potential.
The Town Center is part of Seafront Residences, a completed and fully operational seaside estate by Aboitiz Land, a trusted name in real estate with over 30 years of experience.
“The most valuable opportunities aren’t always in the spotlight. They emerge in moments just before everything shines. The Town Center at Seafront Residences is one of those moments,” Aboitiz Land said. Jenniffer B. Austria
SM PRIME Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of Southeast Asia’s leading integrated property developers, has once again been recognized as one of the Hubexo Asia Top 10 Developers for 2025, marking its 11th consecutive year of inclusion since 2015.
This distinction reaffirms SM Prime’s continued leadership and contribution to the growth and development of Asia’s real estate and built environment.
“Receiving this honor for 11 consecutive years affirms our continued commitment to excellence. It reflects the dedication and teamwork across all our business units that make every SM development a place where people can connect, celebrate and discover,” said Jeffrey C. Lim, President of SM Prime Holdings, Inc.
The Hubexo Asia Top 10 Developers Award honors outstanding property developers for their significant impact on the urban landscape across Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Now in its 20th year, the award continues to uphold its legacy of acknowledging excellence in architecture, design, and sustainable urban development. SM Prime continues to transform spaces into integrated, sustainable communities that support inclusive growth and enhance quality of life. Through its diversified portfolio, which spans malls, residences, offices, hotels and leisure properties, the company remains focused on creating long-term value for its stakeholders and contributing to the progress of the regions it serves.
As the Hubexo Asia Awards celebrates its 20th anniversary, this recognition underscores SM Prime’s enduring role in shaping the region’s built environment and promoting responsible urbanization that supports economic and social progress.
Robinsons Malls proudly received the Circle of Excellence Award for CSR Company of the Year at the 16th
Awards 2025
Joyce Wang, founder
principal of
Wang Studio and recognized interior designer
Town Center at Seafront Residences is a prime investment choice for corporations
to capitalize in the record-breaking tourism of San Juan, Batangas.
MONDAY,
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
FIFTEEN promising titles have made it to the shortlist of Puregold CinePanalo 2026, a lineup that the organizers call the festival’s most competitive lineup yet.
The entries, drawn from a mix of emerging filmmakers and acclaimed industry veterans, will vie for seven coveted slots. Each of the chosen directors will receive a production grant of P5 million—the largest in Philippine film festival history.
The Top 15 full-length contenders are: Ennui by Alpha Habon, Pasilyo by Allen Galindo Gods and Thieves by Tyrone Acierto, Apol of My Ai by Thop Nazareno Multwoh (Patay na Patay Sa’yo) by Rodina Singh And There Was Silence by Jonathan Jurilla Wantawsan by Joseph Abello Stuck on You by Mikko Baldoza Mono No Aware by BC Amparado, Ang Lalakeng Lumuluha ng Perlas by Khavn, Beast by Lawrence Fajardo, I’ve Seen Where It Ends by JP Habac, Aripuen by Christopher Gozum, Patay Gutom (Dead Hungry) by Carl Papa and Ian Pangilinan, and Catch Me If You Stan by Rayn Brizuela Festival chair and Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad said the 2026 lineup signals a new chapter for the event. “Only three years in, we’ve earned the attention and trust of some of the country’s most important filmmakers,” she said.
By Jasper Valdez
TPuregold CinePanalo has gained international recognition for producing acclaimed works, including Kurt Soberano’s Under a Piaya Moon Sigrid Bernardo’s Pushcart Tales TM Malones’ Salum, and JP Habac’s Olsen’s Day which have screened in film festivals across Pakistan, Morocco, Singapore, and the United States.
The 15 filmmakers will pitch their projects to the selection committee before the final seven are announced. The chosen films will premiere at the 2026 Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, set for Aug. 7 to 18 at Gateway Cineplex 18 in Quezon City. Meanwhile, applications for the student shorts category remain open until Nov. 25 through tinyurl.com/PCPFFShorts.
Matteo Guidicelli
purpose in telling Filipino stories
HROUGH the years, Matteo
Guidicelli has worn many hats—actor, singer, athlete, soldier, and television host. Each one has shaped him in many different ways, but his newest role brings all those experiences together.
The 35-year-old star has joined Bilyonaryo News Channel, signing a contract on Oct. 13 to appear in its flagship program Agenda, where he’ll handle lifestyle, entertainment, and sports stories while pursuing what he calls a deeper purpose: telling the Filipino story.
“I started to realize that I want to tell the Filipino story,” he told members of the press during the contract signing.
“There are a lot of stories that are untold, and I think this is a good platform to reach millions, to add value, and to show not just the negative but also the positive side of our country.”
According to Bilyonaryo News Channel senior vice president Cheryl Favila, Guidicelli’s addition to Agenda is only the beginning.
“We’re very pleased that Matteo has decided to join us,” Favila said. “He’ll start by delivering lifestyle, sports, and entertainment stories once or twice a week, but eventually, we’d like him to experience what it’s like to be in news as a real journalist.”
REIN Entertainment has announced that Andrea Brillantes will star in its upcoming feature film, marking a new collaboration with one of the most recognizable young actors of her generation.
The project, a drama-thriller directed by Sigrid Andrea P. Bernardo, will be shot entirely in Cebu. Rein Entertainment said it also plans to work with Brillantes on future series projects as part of its expanding lineup of character-driven productions. Brillantes, known for her roles in Kadenang Ginto and Senior High, has built a reputation for portraying strong and complex characters.
“Andrea brings both strength and sincerity to every role,” said Lino S. Cayetano of Rein Entertainment. “We’re thrilled to have her lead this new film and look forward to exploring more opportunities to work together.”
Rein Entertainment said it remains committed to developing bold and emotionally grounded stories that highlight Filipino talent, a vision it shares with Brillantes, who continues to pursue creative ventures as both an artist and entrepreneur.
Further details about the film and upcoming collaborations are expected to be announced soon.
Favila also hinted that more collaborations are in store for the actor as the network continues to expand its programming and viewership.
In just over a year on air, Bilyonaryo News Channel has already won six PMPC Star Awards and gained a wider audience beyond its initial ABC1 market.
Guidicelli, who gained experience in public affairs through shows like Unang Hirit and the docu-series Philippine Defenders , said this new direction feels like a natural extension of his desire to tell stories with heart and substance.
The 35-year-old actor also shared how his six years in the Armed Forces of the Philippines influenced his purpose.
“When I joined the army, I saw a lot of stories worth telling,” he said. “There are people doing amazing work that we don’t hear about often. I think it’s time to highlight those.”
Beyond television, Guidicelli continues
to champion causes through his companies, G-Productions and G-Studios, which recently marked their anniversaries by supporting groups such as the Animal Kingdom Foundation, World Vision, and Kythe Foundation.
He and his wife, Sarah Geronimo, also recently donated a virtual classroom equipped with iPads and three years of internet access in his hometown of Bogo, Cebu. The initiative, he said, is part of his advocacy to promote digital literacy and education for children in need.
Though his contract with Bilyonaryo isn’t exclusive, Guidicelli said he’s fully committed to his new platform.
“At the end of the day—whether it’s ABS-CBN, GMA, or Bilyonaryo— we’re all telling the Filipino story,” he said. “That’s the goal.”
Director Sigrid Andrea Bernardo’s ‘Pushcart Tales’ is part of CinePanalo’s first edition
Matteo Guidicelli (left) with Bilyonaryo News Channel senior vice president Cheryl Favila during the media conference
Matteo Guidicelli (center) with Bilyonaryo News Channel executives following his contract signing
Andrea Brillantes makes her big-screen comeback as the lead star in Rein Entertainment’s upcoming drama-thriller
From left: Producers Minnie Espiritu and Charm Guzman, director Sigrid Andrea P. Bernardo, Andrea Brillantes, Shirley Kuan, and producer Lino S. Cayetano gather for the contract signing of Rein Entertainment’s upcoming drama-thriller
Matteo Guidicelli joins Bilyonaryo News Channel’s flagship program ‘Agenda’
Hamilo Coast properties
bag top honors at regional real estate awards
By Nickie Wang
WINNING an award in real estate is solid proof of trust earned through vision and consistency. This same foundation defined the recognition of Hamilo Coast’s residential havens Pico Terraces and M Village at Marina Estates at the 13th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards.
During the ceremony held on Aug. 15 at Shangri-La The Fort in Manila, Pico Terraces was honored as Best Condominium Development in Luzon, while M Village at Marina Estates received commendation in the Best Subdivision Development category. Adding to its growing list of achievements, Pico Terraces also won Best Resort Condominium Development at the 2025 DOT Property Awards, staged at Okada Manila on Sept. 11. The annual event, hosted by the Dot Property Group, honors topperforming developers and projects across Asia.
Shirley Ong, executive vice president and business unit head of SM Leisure Resort Residences, accepted the award on behalf of Hamilo Coast.
“Pico Terraces is where life unfolds—a community that brings the comfort of home together with the ease of a resort
By Jasper Valdez
OFFICIALS from the sports and tourism sectors will gather for the Sports Tourism Forum on Nov. 7, 2025, at Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga. The one-day event,
leisure lifestyle,” Ong said, noting that the win reinforces Hamilo Coast’s status as a benchmark for premium, sustainable coastal developments.
Developed by Costa del Hamilo, Inc., a subsidiary of SM Prime, Pico Terraces spans 2.1 hectares of landscaped greenery with 80 percent dedicated to open spaces. The development features cascading pools, cabanas, a clubhouse, and an outdoor fitness area. Its next phases, Ardea Suites and Balea Suites, are expected to be completed in 2027.
M Village at Marina Estates, meanwhile, is the latest addition to Hamilo Coast’s growing portfolio. Nestled in Papaya Cove, the 200-hectare development features a world-class marina, eco-resort communities, and a preserved 30-hectare mangrove forest—designed to blend upscale living with environmental sustainability.
The string of awards cements Costa del Hamilo, Inc.’s reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s leading leisure resort developers, consistently creating world-class destinations along the Batangas coastline.
Hamilo Coast is a master-planned seaside community in Nasugbu, Batangas, developed and managed by Costa del Hamilo, Inc., a subsidiary of SM Prime. It is about 90 minutes from Manila via Cavitex and the Ternate-Nasugbu Road.
IN FASHION at the moment, as seen on catwalks: frills, corsets, big shoulder pads, and “naked dresses.” Out of fashion: employing women as chief designers.
In the most recent Spring-Summer 2026 womenswear Fashion Weeks in Paris and Milan, the effects of a huge reshuffle at the top of the European luxury clothing industry were plain to see.
From Chanel, Dior, Celine, and Balenciaga to Loewe and Jean Paul Gaultier, around 10 leading labels unveiled debut collections from new artistic directors.
In Milan, heavy hitters Gucci, Versace, and Bottega Veneta spotlighted freshly appointed designers too.
On only one occasion, the new face taking the bow and applause at the end was a woman—Britain’s Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta—while Matthieu Blazy at Chanel and Jonathan Anderson at Dior both replaced high-profile female predecessors.
“It seemed that there was a bit of an opening (for women) just before COVID,” said Karen Van Godtsenhoven, a fashion academic at the University of Ghent in Belgium and guest curator for the 2023 exhibition “Women Dressing Women” at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art.
“But I think Covid played a role in society at large in bringing back more conservative and reactionary ways of thinking. For the fashion industry it has meant going back to the old certainties of the male solo designer,” she added.
Dana Thomas , an American fashion writer and author of “Deluxe: How Luxury Lost its Luster,” puts the retreat down to the fact that the highly concentrated industry is dominated by conservative elderly male owners at LVMH, Kering, and Chanel.
“I think that Chanel missed a really big opportunity in not hiring a woman to run a house that was founded by the most famous woman and influential person in fashion,” she told AFP , referring to Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel.
She lists other labels created by illustrious 20th-century female designers—Lanvin, Nina Ricci, Schiaparelli, and Celine.
“They all have men as creative directors now,” she said.
Clark to host Sports Tourism Forum on Nov.
7
and resorts, sports and MICE event organizers, facility managers, and corporate sponsors. In line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s call to make sports a catalyst for tourism growth, the Sports Turismo Alliance has been holding forums nationwide with support from the DOT, led by Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco
“The Philippines is off the starting blocks to prove itself as a great sports host country,” said Charles Lim, president and CEO of the Sports Turismo Alliance and founder of the Philippine Sports Tourism Awards.
“International
Executives from Costa del Hamilo, Inc. receive the Best Resort Condominium Development award for Pico Terraces at the 2025 DOT Property Philippines Awards
Kering-owned Bottega Veneta is among the few major fashion houses to name a woman, Louise Trotter, as artistic director
The Costa del Hamilo, Inc. team celebrates Pico Terraces’ win for Best Condominium Development (Luzon) at the 13th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards
Pico Terraces, located in Hamilo Coast’s Pico De Loro Cove, stands as an expansive resort-style condominium community in Nasugbu, Batangas
MONDAY, OCTOBER 20,
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
CONRAD Manila always comes up with something delightfully new, whether in its food and beverage offerings, facilities, or marketing activities. This time, the novelty of an interesting feature in its “Of Art and Wine” series at the hotel’s C Lounge pleasantly surprised art enthusiasts in the metro.
Woven delights at the ‘C’
see in the photos on this page, the colorful art pieces are actually images made of weaves. The exhibit helps viewers understand that weaving is not only a craft but also a vessel of memory, identity, and connection. This form of art is a profound expression of creativity and cultural identity, intricately linked to the role of women. They have long been the
custodians of this tradition, passing down techniques and stories through generations, preserving heritage, and fostering community bonds. Each thread woven into fabric carries not just color and texture but
SM HOTELS & Conventions Corporation
(SMHCC) made a big splash at the 2025 TTG Travel Awards in Bangkok, taking home multiple honors for its top-tier hotels and convention centers. The awards, held at the Centara Grand at CentralWorld, celebrate the best in Asia-Pacific’s travel and hospitality industry as voted by travel agents and professionals across the region. Conrad Manila, SM Hotels’ luxury flagship, was named Best Business Hotel—Philippines for the third time, cementing its reputation as a premier destination for corporate travelers. The award recognizes its cuttingedge meeting facilities, world-class venues, and consistent excellence in the MICE sector.
also the weight of history, emotion, and purpose. These threads transcend aesthetics, symbolizing resilience, unity, and the intricate connections between individuals and their cultures.
By honoring the artistry of weaving and the pivotal role women play in this tradition, guests are invited to explore the deeper narratives embedded in each piece, celebrating both craftsmanship and enduring cultural legacies.
As I went through all 34 pieces on display, they reminded me of what I bought in Vietnam many decades ago—a large, fully embroidered,
colorful piece showing a beautiful landscape. Looking at it from a distance makes you think it’s a painting, but as you go closer, you’ll notice that the picture is actually an elaborate embroidery of colorful threads. I’m so proud of this purchase that I made sure it’s a main feature in my living room.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for this 37th edition was led by SMHCC president Elizabeth Sy, SVP Cathy Nepomuceno, Philippine Textile Council (PTC) president Mia Villanueva, PTC president emeritus Adelaida Lim, Cultural Center of the Philippines president Kaye Tinga, Conrad Manila general manager Lucky Ou, and featured artists
Double win for SM Hotels at 2025 TTG Awards in Bangkok
“We are deeply grateful to the travel agents who recognized Conrad Manila,” said commercial director Joanne Gomez, who accepted the award on behalf of the hotel.
“Your continued trust and partnership inspire us to continually raise the bar in delivering seamless experiences.”
SMX Convention Center, meanwhile, clinched the Best Convention & Exhibition Center –Philippines title for the second consecutive year, reaffirming its dominance in the MICE industry. The company operates major venues across the country,
including SMX Manila, SMX Aura, SMX Clark, and SMX Davao, with new developments underway in Cebu, Cabanatuan, Sta. Rosa, and Sto. Tomas.
“This back-to-back recognition validates the passion of our teams and the trust of our partners,” said Mike Albaña, SMX Convention Center vice president and general manager.
Kristine de Jesus Anita del Rosario, Jane Ebarle, and Maria Salvador Through these intricate art pieces, the artists share their personal narratives with guests and celebrate our country’s thriving tradition of weaving. All artworks are available for sale, and the exhibit runs until Nov. 15. Inspired by this featured art collection, Conrad Manila invites guests to try a new afternoon tea experience. For the duration of the exhibit, the
C Lounge offers a delightful culinary journey with its selection of exquisite bites and sips.
The artfully curated set includes Baked Gillardeau Oysters, Pan-Seared Lamb Chops, U.S. Choice Beef Tenderloin, Pan-Seared Lapu-Lapu, Signature C Lounge Burger, Raspberry Cheesecake, Vanilla Panna Cotta, Roasted Coconut Semifreddo with Mango Popsicle, and many more. More information on Conrad Manila’s offerings is available at Conrad.Manila.info@conradhotels. com or through +632 8833 9999. For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@ gmail.com
Radisson
Blu Cebu celebrates 9th bridal fair empowering women
the ninth
of its signature
with a theme inspired by lapis
The strong showing underscores SMHCC’s growing influence in the hospitality industry, offering a full suite of accommodation and convention options backed by the group’s hallmark Filipino brand of service.
gemstone symbolizing harmony, truth, and devotion. The event, which transformed the hotel’s grand lobby and main exhibit hall into a sea of rich blue hues, gathered nearly 100 of Cebu’s top wedding and events suppliers—from couturiers and florists to photographers, jewelers, and stylists. Couples attending the fair enjoyed exclusive offers and discounts designed to bring their dream weddings to life. A highlight of the event was the much-awaited “Dream Wedding on Us” raffle, open to couples who booked any event during the
Winners received an elegant wedding package that included a dinner buffet for 100 guests at Radisson Blu Cebu, fine jewelry from Love & Diamonds, photo coverage by Rock Paper Scissors Studios, and wedding
from brands such as One Mist Fragrances,
and
Tales by
of Hans. Love & Diamonds also gave away two additional jewelry sets worth P25,000 each.
This year’s edition also expanded its mission beyond
THE Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu celebrated
edition
bridal fair, Something Blu
lazuli—the
fair.
Rei Escario,
Jeah Baron,
Work
weddings by celebrating women’s empowerment. In partnership with the Cebu City Jail Women’s Dormitory, Something Blu showcased
Members of Radisson Blu Cebu’s Sales and Events teams welcome guests at the Something Blu bridal fair booth designed by Gaylord Aves
Artist Anina Rubio’s piece artistically resembles a torso, showcasing her mastery of texture and dimension
The simplicity of this woven piece evokes the traditional textile patterns of the Yakan tribe
The ceremonial toast is led by Jane Ebarle, Adelaida Lim, Kaye Tinga, Elizabeth Sy, Anita del Rosario, Kristine de Jesus, and Mia Villanueva to open the exhibition
SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation president Elizabeth Sy (left) with exhibit curator Nestor Jardin at the ‘Her Hands: A Loom of Stories’ opening