from the Manila North Cemetery (MNC) and the Manila South Cemetery (MSC) announced that the last day for cleaning or sprucing up of tombs is on October 27, 2025.
At the MNC, about two million are expected to visit their loved ones during the 'Undas' season from October 29 to November 2. It is located in Santa Cruz, Manila and is known as the largest cemetery in the country.
The MNC management said the last day when interment may be done is on October 28. It is also the last day when vehicles will be allowed inside the premises.
Vendors will not be allowed at the entrance areas of the cemeteries to provide space for the expected influx of cemetery visitors.
The cemeteries will be open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. from October 29 to November 2.
A locator may be used by visitors to know the exact location of the tombs they intend to visit.
Bringing deadly weapons, liquor or any intoxicating beverages and items that produce noise are strictly banned from the cemeteries.
DPWH...
From A1 ago which was found to be very substandard but already fully paid even if it was not yet completed,” Dizon said in a press conference that was attended by Ombudsman Crispin Remulla and Independent Commission for Infrastructure chairperson Andres Reyes Jr.
“The other case is on the Davao Occidental case which we visited and this one clearly a ghost project involving St. Timothy, one of the corpora-
‘Trust...
From A1 and infrastructure, including the PCG General Hospital and the Maritime Law Enforcement Training Center in Misibis.
He praised the Coast Guard as a symbol of what government should be, disciplined, transparent, and dedicated to the people.
President Marcos' remarks came
tions of the Discaya couple," he said. He said both non-bailable cases carry a similar penalty of life imprisonment.
Remulla, for his part, said a “person of interest” in the P96.5 million La Union flood control project is Benguet Rep. Eric Yap, despite having divested from Silverwolves Construction Corp.
"He divested from it a few years ago supposedly but there is reason to suspect he is still the beneficial owner of the company. So, this is a clear case of conflict of interest also,” the Ombudsman said.
amid the ongoing "ghost" flood control project corruption mess the administration is currently facing.
The President's trust and approval ratings continue to drop, with the public remaining skeptical of the ongoing probe into the corruption scandal.
According to a recent Pulse Asia survey, 44% of Filipino adults were dissatisfied with the president's performance in the past quarter. Between June 2025 and September 2025, the president's approval rating decreased by nine percentage points.
The Davao Occident project, on the other hand, only started construction when the flood infrastructure mess was exposed.
“After the news erupted, they tried to start working on the projects. So they started working on the projects after the scandal had already broken out…It's really a ghost project," Remulla said.
Dizon said the project was bid out in 2021 and was awarded to the Discaya-owned St. Timothy Corp. in 2022.
As this developed, Remulla said his office is also studying possible
Arson...
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certifying that he has no pending criminal or administrative cases. He also presented a copy of a July 31, 2019 Ombudsman resolution that dismissed his case after finding his signatures on PDAFdocuments were forged.
Martires then confirmed that he dismissed the raps against Villanueva.
“It only came out after I said the Ombudsman would act on it. So it is a surprise, secret decision,” Remulla said. “Nobody was raising that issue before, Joel Villanueva kept quiet over the years, Ombudsman Martires never spoke about it. Did you know that? Nobody knows about it,” he added.
Remulla said he was not being unfair to Villanueva but was merely taking action given that the Ombudsman’s 2019 decision on the case was not previously published.
“It was not published, it was never released. Nobody knew about it. Even the Senate did not know about it. Don’t you call that a secret decision?” he said.
“It is not harassment. It is what everybody thinks is still valid, but turned out to be not valid anymore due to a secret decision,” he added.
Villanueva denounced what he called “harassment and fake news” following Remulla’s announcement that he would seek the enforcement of a nearly decade-old dismissal order against him.
“We already anticipated possible harassment plus fake news,” he said.
The order issued by CarpioMorales found Villanueva guilty of grave misconduct, serious dishonesty, and conduct prejudicial to the interest of the service.
It stemmed from accusations that he misused ₱10 million from his 2008 Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) when he was a CIBAC party-list representative. Morales ruled that the funds were funneled into a bogus non-government organization for ghost agricultural projects.
In a 2016 session, Sotto, then Senate majority leader, moved to adopt the chamber’s legal counsel’s opinion stating that the Ombudsman cannot suspend or dismiss sitting legislators.
Remulla said reviving the issue now aims to clarify this jurisdictional conflict by bringing it before the Supreme Court.
The Ombudsman's move comes as Villanueva faces renewed scrutiny over alleged irregularities in Bulacan flood control projects, which he has denied.
conflict of interest cases against Senators Mark Villar, a former DPWH secretary, and Christopher Lawrence T. Go, whose father owns CLTG Builders that partnered with the Discaya-owned St. Gerrard Construction.
“Were doing a study on that already, on conflict of interest when you have a relative contracting with the government and you are in power or in a position to mediate or grant favor. Conflict of interest is always part of the law on graft,” Remulla said in a separate television interview.
his part, said the initial findings of the BFP “corrects the initial information that there was a computer unit that exploded.”
Dizon assured the public the fire did not affect any records linked to the corruption probe, noting that all flood control documents have been transferred to and are protected at the DPWH Central Office.
"Right now, we have gotten all [documents] from 2022 to 2025, and we are now receiving earlier years. They are now all here in the Central Office, protected," Dizon said.
"We did not see any critical documents which may be vital in the ongoing investigation (affected by the fire). And all of them are backed by scanned copies," he added.
DPWH Undersecretary for Convergence Projects and Technical Services Lara Esquibil said the materials affected by the blaze included manuals, field testing reports, procurement reports, and training-related documents specific to the BRS operations. Vito Barcelo and Pot Chavez
Dizon...
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The initiative follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to clean up and launch reforms within the agency.
In a press conference, Dizon said he has asked the NBI and the private sector to help check on the background of 14 DPWH executives from undersecretaries to assistant secretaries.
In his letter to NBI director Jaime Santiago, Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) chairperson Benedicta Baladad, Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) president Alfredo Panlilio, and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) president Enunina Mangio, Dizon asked for assistance in vetting the track records of the DPWH officials.
“The President has repeatedly said that the DPWH should be cleaned up and not defended. This is part of the reform and cleaning that we are doing, that our colleagues should be incorruptible and sincere in serving the Filipino people,” Dizon said.
Covered by the background checks were 14 DPWH executives from un-
dersecretaries to assistant secretaries. They included Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain, Undersecretary Arthur V. Bisnar, Undersecretary Ador G. Canlas, Undersecretary Nicasio A. Conti, Undersecretary Charles T. Calima, Undersecretary Samuel Rufino J. Turgano, Undersecretary Ricardo P. Bernabe III, OIC-Undersecretary Lara Marisse I. Esquibil, Assistant Secretary Nerie D. Bueno, Assistant Secretary Medmier G. Malig, Assistant Secretary Michael S. Villafranca, Assistant Secretary Constante A. Llanes, Jr., Assistant Secretary Michelle S. De Vera and Assistant Secretary Suzanne Marie Liwanag.
By involving both the NBI and respected private sector institutions, Dizon said the department aims to ensure that only qualified and upright officials will lead its reform efforts.
He emphasized that the vetting process is not only about compliance but about rebuilding public trust in one of the government’s most crucial infrastructure agencies.
The DPWH chief added that the integrity review would become a standard part of future appointments within the agency as part of institutional reforms aimed at promoting good governance and transparency. Darwin G. Amojelar and Vito Barcelo
“Some of these cases will be really controversial… and some will be the elephant in the room.”
“Conflict of interest is something we should all avoid as people doing a job in government. One of the basic tenets of good governance is avoiding conflict of interest,” the Ombudsman added.
Meanwhile, Remulla said a former district lawmaker from Quezon City is ready to “tell all” he knows about the flood-control project mess.
“He will pinpoint (those involved),” he said. Pot Chavez, Rio Araja and Vito Barcelo
DepEd...
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Jr. to prioritize the welfare of teachers and students nationwide.
“During our weekly school visits, we have heard the concerns of our teachers. We deemed it best to give them time to rest and spend more time with their families,” Angara said in Tagalog.
“Many of our teachers and students come from areas affected by typhoons and earthquakes or are dealing with flu cases. So, we said, let’s take a short break. We can work better if we feel well,” he added.
The policy amends certain provisions of a recent DepEd memorandum on learning systems in accordance with its implementing guidelines on the school calendar and other activities.
“For schools and divisions that have already paid for INSET venues or meals scheduled during the break, these may be rescheduled or repurposed for other activities,” the DepEd advised.
“If rescheduling is not possible, activities may proceed on a voluntary basis. Teachers who voluntarily participate will no longer be required to attend a similar training later in the year,” it added.
Schools are also given the flexibility to adjust their schedules in coordination with their respective schools division and regional offices. The DepEd reminded schools and divisions that INSET and other professional development programs for teachers must still be conducted on alternative dates within the remaining school days of academic year 2025–2026.
Classes will resume on November 3, 2025 after the nationwide observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. The INSET program is a professional development initiative designed to help teachers and school leaders enhance their knowledge, skills, and teaching methods.
Courtesy: Manila North Cemetery / Manila South Cemetery
NEWS IN BRIEF
PH, Australian armies hold joint military drills
THE Philippine Army and the Australian Defense Force are holding joint exercises in the Visayas as part of the PhilippinesAustralia Army-to-Army Exercise (PAAAE) Kasangga 2025.
The monthlong training, which began October 4 and ends November 9, takes place at Camp General Macario Peralta Jr. and the Combat Readiness Training AreaVisayas in Jamindan, Capiz.
A total of 171 Philippine Army soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division and 90 Australian troops are participating in the drills, which simulate real-world scenarios such as mortar gunnery, drone operations, coastal defense, and casualty response.
Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, said the exercises strengthen trust and cooperation between the two forces. “This training is not just about tactics and firepower but about understanding each other’s capabilities,” he said. Rex Espiritu
UP student leaders hit PNP for targeting youth
UNIVERSITY of the Philippines student leaders on Thursday slammed the police for serving subpoenas to protest participants instead of focusing on corrupt officials.
UP Diliman student council chair Joaquin Buenaflor said he is the fourth youth leader summoned after the September 21 rally against alleged corruption in flood-control projects.
Buenaflor said the PNP acts quickly against students but stays silent on “massive thieves” in government. “Police should go after the corrupt, not the youth demanding accountability,” he said. Other student leaders from PUP and campus journalists have also received subpoenas.
Lawyer Ephraim Cortez of the National Union of People’s Lawyers said those summoned have no obligation to appear before the police and are protected by their constitutional rights. Rex Espiritu
DOLE releases P494m for typhoon-hit workers
THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has released more than P494 million in assistance to over 100,000 workers affected by recent typhoons in CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Bicol, and Eastern Visayas. The aid was distributed under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program, which provides temporary jobs and supports community recovery.
Eastern Visayas had the most beneficiaries, with 75,598 workers receiving over P359 million in wages. The Bicol Region followed with P41.6 million for 8,511 workers, while MIMAROPA and Ilocos distributed P34.7 million and P27.2 million, respectively. Vito Barcelo
DepEd yet to tap AFP engineers
By Rex Espiritu and Vito Barcelo
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday said it has not yet received a formal request from the Department of Education (DepEd) to deploy its engineering corps for the construction of classrooms.
“Nonetheless, we remain ready to support government initiatives when officially directed and consistent with our mandate,” AFP Public Affairs chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement. Trinidad also noted that AFP engineering units are currently being transformed into combat engineer units “to strengthen capabilities for territorial defense and security operations.”
The DepEd on Tuesday lamented that only 22 classrooms were built so far out of the 1,700 target for this year, adding that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) under the previous leadership might have been too busy with flood control projects. Education Secretary Sonny Angara said he
was seeking system changes since only the DPWH “has the power” to build DepEd classrooms.
Malacañang on Wednesday said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. already ordered a coordinated effort among members of the DPWH, DepEd, and local government units (LGUs) to accelerate the construction of classrooms nationwide.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said the initiative follows Marcos’ directive to provide direct funding to LGUs for classroom construction to resolve the shortage as quickly as possible. Meanwhile, Public Works Secretary
DA steps up inspections to enforce P43 rice price cap
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is intensifying market inspections to ensure that the P43-per-kilo maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for imported rice is strictly observed, even as the suspension of rice importation remains in place.
Agriculture
Secretary Francisco P. Tiu
Laurel Jr. said teams from the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS) will inspect markets where imported rice prices have reportedly increased. “If the complaints are validated, retailers will be issued show-cause orders,” he said, stressing that imported rice supply remains sufficient even if the import freeze is extended.
Tiu Laurel told the Senate Committee
on Agriculture and Food that the country ended 2024 with a rice import surplus of about 1.2 million metric tons, while another 800,000 metric tons were brought in during the first nine months of 2025.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is expected to extend the two-month suspension of rice imports through December.
The policy, initially intended to sup
port palay farmgate prices, came after rates in some areas dropped to as low as P8 per kilo due to oversupply and weather-related losses.
Tiu Laurel said prices should still stay within the P43 MSRP for 5-percent broken rice, noting that “there are still imported and local varieties selling for P33 to P38 per kilo.”
Vince Dizon admitted that his agency’s “very deplorable” performance in building classrooms cost it the responsibility of overseeing the program. He said only 22 classrooms have been completed, 822 are still under construction, and 882 have not yet started. Dizon said the DPWH will investigate the causes of delay—such as funding, procedures, and coordination—and work closely with the DepEd to fast-track ongoing projects. He also noted that the Department had been too focused on other priorities, particularly flood control projects, which may have caused classroom construction to “no longer become a priority.”
PNP to enforce court orders in ‘sabungeros’
By Vince Lopez
ACTING Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. assured the public that the police force is fully prepared to implement any lawful orders that may arise from the ongoing legal proceedings related to the “missing sabungeros” case.
“The Philippine National Police is always ready to enforce the law once the proper judicial processes are completed. When an arrest warrant is issued, the PNP will immediately act in coordination with the concerned units and the courts to ensure its proper and lawful implementation,” Nartatez said.
“We will follow due process and make sure that all procedures are done within the bounds of the law. There is no bias, and our only goal is to enforce the law with integrity and respect for everyone’s rights,” he added.
The top cop directed the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and local police units to remain on standby and ready to implement any court-issued warrants.
Escudero seeks to curb ‘ghost projects’
By Ram Superable
SENATOR Francis Escudero on Thursday urged
the national government to require public consultation and approval from local authorities before funding any infrastructure project.
Escudero said people on the ground know best what projects their communities need, and their input should guide government spending starting with the 2026 General Appropriations Act.
“With so many problems emerging in government infrastructure projects, including substandard and ‘ghost’ flood control projects, there is a real need to find meaningful solutions
to stop public funds from being wasted on corruption,” he said. The former Senate chief, who is facing scrutiny over a campaign donation from a contractor, cited Commission on Audit findings and past budget reports revealing numerous anomalies and nonexistent projects.
To address these issues, Escudero filed the proposed Grassroots Infrastructure Planning and Budgeting Act. Under the measure, no infrastructure project may be included in the National Expenditure Program unless it has been endorsed by the Regional Development Council and the respective provincial, city, or municipal development council.
Construction workers demolish structures at the Metrowalk property in Pasig City to make way for the Ortigas Station of the Metro Manila Subway
Project on Thursday, October 23. Manny Palmero
PROUD NEW HOMEOWNER. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. hands over a symbolic key to a beneficiary of the government’s housing program during a visit to the National Housing Expo 2025 in Pasay City.
DSWD eases ECT amid disasters
By Maricel V. Cruz
THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has issued revised guidelines on the implementation of the Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) program to make it more responsive amid disasters in the country.
DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao said the new guidelines make the ECT program more aligned to disaster response and early recovery efforts for internally dis-
placed persons (IDPs).
“At the impact and immediate postimpact phase of a disaster, the ECT may be provided to IDPs for their relief and early recovery needs,” Dumlao said
IN BRIEF
Troops prevent armed clash from escalating
SOLDIERS have successfully intervened and prevented a clash between two armed groups in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao from escalating.
Troops from the Army’s 40th Infantry (Magiting) Batalion were deployed following report that a shootout at Barungis Ligwasan has erupted between two warring groups led by Mackly Adam and Taib Sampulna, respectively.
According to 40th IB commander Lt. Col. Erwin Jay Dumaghan, the fighting ceased upon arrival of the troops, but the atmosphere remained volatile and could explode anew anytime.
A follower of Sampulna, identified as Jiango Sampulna, was reported as the lone fatality. The police launched a probe to determine the cause of the conflict and held those responsible accountable. Rex Expiritu
OFW Hospital operates first case of mastectomy
THE Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Hospital marked a medical milestone after successfully performing its first Modified Radical Mastectomy (MRM) on a former OFW diagnosed with breast cancer.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said this was a major step in the country’s fight against breast cancer, which continues to be one of the leading diseases affecting women in the Philippines.
The DMW said 39-year-old ex- OFW, who was a patient at OFW Hospital felt a lump in her left breast. She immediately consulted and underwent an ultrasound, biopsy, and other tests.
Dr. Krisha Mae F. Salazar, head of surgery of OFW Hospital, led the operation, assisted by OR Nurse Jesusa Santiago and anesthesiologist Dr. Analyn Adlawan. The operation went smoothly and the patient is now in good condition. Vito Barcelo
New NFA warehouse coming up in Cauayan
CAUAYAN City—The National Food Authority (NFA) recently broke ground for the construction of a modern warehouse in the city.
NFA Administrator Larry Lacson led the ceremony, marking the beginning of a project that promises to enhance NFA’s rice procurement from local farmers.
Lacson said the NFA has been ramping up the renovation of warehouses amid reports of traders’ purchase of palay at low prices across the country.
The development of modern warehouses is crucial for the agricultural sector, as it enables the efficient storage and distribution of crops. With the increasing demand for food security, investments in agricultural infrastructure are essential for ensuring the country’s self-sufficiency in rice production, Lacson said. Jessica M. Bacud
FIRE AFTERMATH. Mayor Jeannie Sandoval and Bureau of Fire Protection personnel view the charred remains of homes razed by a fire in Barangay Catmon, Malabon City. Andrew Rabulan
on Thursday.
“The cash assistance provided can be used to buy nutritious food, hygiene items, medicine, clothing, and other supplies which are not included in the relief packages provided by the DSWD,” she added.
The ECT is a disaster operations intervention that provides unconditional cash assistance to families that require help after the occurrence of a calamity. Since the ECT is a post-disaster intervention, there are triggers to indicate the rollout of the assistance as stated in
the revised guidelines.
“Apart from establishing that ECT can be provided during various stages of the disaster operations, the revised guidelines also provide clearer trigger mechanisms,” Dumlao said.
Under the new guidelines, the ECT can be rolled out based on three important triggers: the declaration of a “State of Calamity” in a certain locality, the market operability in the affected area based on the disaster risk reduction management council situation report, and the Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) report.
DOT preps up Boracay for ‘26 ASEAN confabs
By Jun N. Aguirre
BORACAY Island—The Department of Tourism in Western Visayas has met with local stakeholders with a view to preparing this resort island as one of the hosts of the series of ASEAN meetings next year.
Tourism regional director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez said the Philippines was appointed as head of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Meetings in 2026. “ This was agreed upon by ASEAN leaders during the 43rd ASEAN Summit in September 2023. The DoT has been tasked to chair and lead the Committee on Tourism, Hospitality, Tours, Social Events, and Site Enhancement. Senior officials meetings and ministerial meetings are expected to be held,” said Rodriguez.
Among the topics discussed were the security of the delegates, the role of stakeholders, and update on the preparation for the country’s role as host,” she added.
For his part, Malay Mayor Frolibar Bautista said the ASEAN meeting will boost the tourism industry of Boracay.
Meanwhile, Bautista predicted a surge of Russian tourists before the end of October.
“According to Iraero Airlines’ website, they will be flying to Kalibo International Airport from Irkutsk and Khabarovsk starting last week of October 2025,” Bautista said.
Marcos renews vow to pursue gov’t housing program
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday renewed his pledge to provide every Filipino family with a safe and decent home as he highlighted the government’s ongoing housing initiatives during the opening of the country’s first-ever government-supported Housing Expo.
Addressing the event in Pasay City, the President said the government remains determined to make home ownership a reality for all, especially for the low-income earners and marginalized families.
“Today, we reaffirm our dream: that every Filipino family will have a safe, decent, and own home,” Marcos said.
As long as there are Filipinos who desire their own home, the government will not stop in our actions,” he added.
The expo, held in celebration of National Shelter Month, gathered together officials from the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, the Department of Labor and Employment, other key shelter agencies, and private sector partners.
President Marcos thanked DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling for spearheading the initiative. Marcos noted that through the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH), the government has broadened housing access and strengthened financial support mechanisms. He cited the Pag-IBIG Fund as a vital partner, saying that in 2025 alone, the fund helped more than 57,000 members acquire or improve their homes, while releasing P75 billion in cash loans that benefited nearly three million members.
Officials warn against falling rocket debris
By Rex Espiritu
THE Cagayan Valley Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CVDRRMC) has issued an advisory ahead of the scheduled launch of China’s Long March 5 rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Hainan, set between 10:22 p.m. and 11:45 p.m. on Thursday. Authorities have identified several potential drop zones for rocket debris within Philippine waters — around 93 nautical miles (153.7 kilometers) off Dalupiri Island, 69 nautical miles (127.7 km) off Burgos, Ilocos Norte, 116 nautical
km) off Santa Ana, Cagayan, and 193
off Camiguin Norte in the Babuyan Islands, Calayan, Cagayan. The CVDRRMC has alerted law enforcement units and disaster risk reduction offices in Cagayan, Isabela, and Batanes, along with coastal communities, to brace for possible debris fallout.
GRIM SEARCH. Rescuers enlist the help of a K9 sniffer in a bid to find and save a senior couple from the rubbles of a landslide that buried their home in Barangay Palacapao, Quezon, Bukidnon.
OPINION
DFA asserts PH territorial rights
THE Department of Foreign Affairs is on the right track in countering disinformation regarding Philippine territorial sovereignty.
By citing the Treaty of Paris (1898), the Treaty of Washington (1900), and related colonial-era agreements, it underscored the Kalayaan Island Group and Panatag Shoal (also known as Scarborough Shoal) were included in Philippine territory long before modern disputes arose.
The two treaties serve as legal anchors for our claim.
The Treaty of Paris marked Spain’s cession of the Philippine archipelago to the United States, defining territorial boundaries that included surrounding waters and islands.
The Treaty of Washington supplemented this by transferring additional islands outside the Treaty of Paris lines to the US, further clarifying the extent of Philippine territory.
These treaties, recognized under international law, form part of the documentary foundation for the Philippines’ claim.
This legal continuity strengthens the argument that the country’s sovereignty over these areas did not arise merely from the 2016 The Hague arbitral ruling, but from a long-standing and well-documented historical claim.
By invoking the two treaties, along with other legal instruments, the Philippine government seeks to invalidate China’s “tendash line” claim over the South China Sea and affirm our sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea.
Upon independence, the Philippines inherited these territories, forming the basis of our sovereign claims. These treaties have been reinforced by other agreements.
The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, to which both China and the Philippines are signatories, grants coastal states sovereign rights over their Exclusive Economic Zones-- up to 200 nautical miles from their baselines.
In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled that China’s “nine-dash line” (now ten-dash) has no legal basis under international law and affirmed the Philippines’ rights over its EEZ, including areas like Scarborough Shoal and Ayungin Shoal.
The DFA’s firm stand against disinformation is significant for legal and political reasons, especially in the context of the country’s ongoing struggle to assert its maritime rights in the West Philippine Sea.
The DFA and President Marcos Jr., in speeches and official statements, have emphasized that Philippine sovereignty is rooted in both historical treaties and modern international law.
The DFA has warned against “intentional misreading” of these treaties by pro-China groups and reaffirms that the Kalayaan Island Group and Panatag Shoal have long been part of Philippine jurisdiction.
China’s ten-dash line is not recognized by UNCLOS or any international tribunal.
It overlaps with the Philippines’ EEZ and infringes on fishing, resource exploration,
and maritime enforcement rights.
The Philippine government views the line as a unilateral assertion that violates the rulesbased international order.
The DFA is entirely correct in directly challenging ongoing disinformation campaigns that seek to undermine public confidence in the Philippine position.
Pro-China narratives often attempt to rewrite history, suggesting the disputed maritime features were never part of Philippine territory or that China has “ancient rights” to the area.
The DFA’s response is not merely a rebuttal of Beijing’s insistence on a fictional ‘tendash line’ in the South China Sea, but a reaffirmation of sovereignty and the rule of law in the face of brazen disinformation
By publicly correcting these falsehoods, the DFA is not only protecting national interests but also promoting information integrity and countering hybrid warfare tactics that use misinformation to weaken the state’s resolve and sow division among Filipinos.
The DFA position also reinforces national unity and policy coherence.
At a time when social media amplifies disinformation and foreign propaganda can blur public understanding of complex territorial issues, this proactive clarification helps maintain a clear, authoritative narrative aligned with international law and national policy.
This is especially vital now when domestic and foreign actors may exploit confusion to influence public opinion or government action.
The DFA position signals to the international community that the country remains steadfast and legally grounded in its maritime assertions.
By invoking historical treaties alongside modern legal victories like the 2016 arbitral award, the DFA projects consistency, legitimacy, and credibility—qualities crucial for rallying diplomatic support and sustaining alliances with like-minded nations that uphold the rule of law at sea.
In other words, the DFA’s response is not merely a rebuttal of Beijing’s insistence on a fictional “ten-dash line” in the South China Sea, but a reaffirmation of sovereignty and the rule of law in the face of brazen disinformation. (Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)
Another corrupt budget
WHEN the House of Representatives approved the 2026 national budget worth nearly 6.8 trillion pesos, its leaders called it pro-people and reform-oriented. Yet beneath the speeches and press releases lies another corrupt budget, a continuation of the same flawed and self-serving system that has long defined Philippine politics. It is, in truth, a sequel to the 2025 budget, which many lawmakers and analysts called the most corrupt in our history. That earlier budget worsened the flood control corruption scandal, where billions of pesos meant to protect communities from floods were lost to rigged biddings, overpriced materials, and ghost projects. The scandal was supposed to be a turning point. Instead, the 2026 budget repeats the same story with new actors and bigger numbers. The 12 representatives who voted no saw through the illusion of reform. At the center of their dissent are the unprogrammed appropriations—massive funds that can be released if “excess revenues” appear but in reality operate as hidden reserves for political favors. Representative Cielo Krisel Lagman said she was “conscionably disturbed by the continuing presence of unprogrammed appropriations.”
Chel Diokno argued that “all line items under unprogrammed appropriations should be revised to zero. If these items are truly priorities, then they should be in the programmed appropriations.” Their words describe what this fund truly is: a loophole that allows corruption to flourish in plain sight.
Antonio Tinio, speaking for the Makabayan bloc, called the budget “a brazen continuation of the corrupt pork barrel system.”
He estimated that nearly 700 billion pesos remain under discretionary control, a figure that mocks the idea of fiscal discipline.
Leandro Leviste, echoing the warnings of the flood control whistleblowers, quoted a former DPWH official who said that “almost 100 percent of all biddings in DPWH nationwide are rigged.”
Together, Marcos, the Speaker, and the DBM have turned the national budget into an instrument of control rather than service
Leviste warned the new public works budget would only “fund more kickbacks” unless the system was reformed.
Other dissenters pointed to the shadows that still haunt the budget process.
Kaka Bag-ao described unprogrammed appropriations as “a shadow behind the process, invisible but with the power to affect the lives of the people.”
Renee Co noted that “unprogrammed funds are still in the 2026 budget” and con-
This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Horizontal composition. A massive dam tower labelled ‘Promises’ with visible hairline cracks. Dark water seeps from cracks, in streams labelled ‘Delay,’ ‘Excuses,’ ‘Half-measures.’ Below the dam, families in makeshift rain-coats use folders labeled ‘FOI,’ ‘Audits,’ ‘Restitution’ as flimsy umbrellas. On a ridge above stands a group of suited figures unrolling a ribbon labeled ‘Reinventing the watchdog’ – the ribbon becomes a tourniquet around a leaking valve of the dam. Sparse landscape, heavy ink and tone. Caption: ‘When promises overflow, the people drown.’
THE Philippine National Police reported recently it has filed administrative charges against almost 3,000 cops so far this year.
What this demonstrates very clearly is the PNP is doubling down on efforts to enhance its integrity and cleanse its ranks of undesirables and the incompetents.
This could also be seen as recognition of its own internal accountability and a test of its commitment to institutional reform.
Between January and Sept. 2025, the PNP filed administrative charges against 3,288 personnel, surpassing last year’s tally of 2,857 for the same period.
Cleansing the PNP —“—
While the agency has not disclosed the specific nature or ranks of those charged, its Internal Affairs Service has processed over 2,000 complaints, completed 1,508 pre-charge investigations, and resolved 1,041 cases.
This a noteworthy acceleration in internal enforcement.
The increase in disciplinary action is not merely a statistical anomaly. Rather, it reflects a broader shift in the PNP’s posture from reactive damage control to proactive cleansing.
The National Police Commission has reinforced this momentum by mandat-
demned the secrecy of the bicameral conference committee, where major changes are made without public scrutiny.
Sarah Elago called the measure “a pork feast for the powerful,” denouncing confidential and intelligence funds that cannot be audited. For others, the issue is moral as well as political.
Dadah Kiram Ismula said, “your heart is where your money is,” reminding the chamber the budget reveals true priorities.
Leila de Lima was direct and uncompromising: “I vote no to the 2026 General Appropriations Bill. Wala na dapat unprogrammed appropriations. Wag lang zero kundi no, no.”
Their words cut through the noise of justification and exposed what this budget really stands for—continuity of corruption dressed up as reform.
ing a 60-day timeline for resolving administrative cases, streamlining summary dismissal proceedings through a day-specific protocol that spans from complaint evaluation to final resolution day-specific protocol that spans from complaint evaluation to final resolution. Yet, the numbers alone do not guarantee transformation.
The real measure of integrity lies in transparency, consistency, and deterrence
The real measure of integrity lies in transparency, consistency, and deterrence. Without public disclosure of the nature of offenses or the ranks involved, the risk remains that accountability is selectively applied or diluted by internal politics.
Accountability must start at the top.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. bears ultimate responsibility for this corrupt budget. He sets national priorities and signs the final appropriations into law. His refusal to eliminate unprogrammed funds and confidential allocations shows consent, not ignorance. The new Speaker of the House, eager to prove loyalty, shepherded the measure through with minimal debate and maximum discretion.
The Department of Budget and Management, which should guard fiscal integrity, has instead enabled abuse by maintaining opaque releases and politically driven reallocations. Together, Marcos, the Speaker, and the DBM have turned the national budget into an instrument of control rather than service. They preside over a system that rewards
Moreover, the absence of systemic reforms, including independent oversight, whistleblower protection, and community-based monitoring, could render these efforts performative rather than transformative.
Still, this surge in charges offers a window of opportunity. It can signal to the public that the PNP is no longer shielding its own, and to rank-and-file officers that misconduct will not be tolerated. For reform advocates, it’s an appropriate move to push for institutional safeguards that prevent abuse before it occurs, not just punish it after the fact.
In a country where police impunity has long undermined public trust, the PNP’s internal reckoning must be matched by external vigilance. Civil society, media, and local governments must demand clarity on outcomes, patterns of abuse, and reforms in recruitment, training, and promotion.
For the PNP, cleansing the ranks should not just involve removing the undesirables.
It should also mean rebuilding a culture of service, ethics, and accountability from the highest to the lowest levels. If sustained and deepened, this wave of internal enforcement, along with systemic reform, could mark the beginning of a more transparent, professional, and citizen-responsive police force.
loyalty, protects corruption, and punishes dissent. The flood control scandal of 2025 should have forced reform. Instead, it became the blueprint for business as usual. After all the promises of transparency and change, the Filipino people deserved a clean and honest budget. What they received instead is another corrupt one—conceived in Malacañang, passed by a compliant Congress, and executed by a complicit bureaucracy. For this betrayal, Marcos, the new Speaker, and the Department of Budget and Management must be held accountable. The Senate can still save us. But does it have the courage to stand up against the House and the President? Facebook, X, Instagram, and BlueSky: tonylavs Website: tonylavina.com
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2025 mst.daydesk@gmail.com
EU seeks to shore up loan for Ukraine
TRUMP’S GROWING FRUSTRATION. Local residents walk past a Point of Invincibility in Chernigiv on Wednesday, where they can charge their devices and warm themselves following a recent drone attack on critical infrastructure in Chernigiv region, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Russian strikes caused widespread blackouts and cut off phone networks in the northern Ukrainian city of Chernigiv. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump slapped sanctions on Russia’s two largest oil companies on Wednesday, complaining that his talks with
to end the Ukraine war ‘don’t go anywhere.’ AFP
IN BRIEF
N. Korea says tested new weapon system
SEOUL – North Korea said on Thurs-
day it had tested a “cutting-edge” new weapon system using hypersonic missiles aimed at bolstering its defenses against Pyongyang’s foes. The launch was detected by Seoul’s military on Wednesday and was Pyongyang’s first of its kind in months.
It came a week before world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, are set to descend on South Korea for a major regional summit.
Top military official Pak Jong Chon declared the “new cutting-edge weapon system is a clear proof of steadily upgrading self-defensive technical capabilities of the DPRK”, state news agency KCNA said, using North Korea’s official acronym. KCNA said the test was aimed at enhancing the “sustainability and effectiveness of strategic deterrence against potential enemies”.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was not reported to have attended the launch.
State media said the two “hypersonic projectiles” had been launched south of the capital Pyongyang and had hit a target in the country’s northeast. AFP
S. Korea halts tours in parts of DMZ
SEOUL – South Korea has halted tours of the Joint Security Area in the Demilitarized Zone separating the two Koreas, officials said Thursday, ahead of a visit by US President Donald Trump to the peninsula.
Trump is expected in South Korea next Wednesday for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum, and US media has reported officials from his administration have privately discussed setting up a meeting between him and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Trump has said he hopes to meet Kim again -- possibly this year -- while the North Korean leader said last month he had “fond memories” of Trump and was open to talks if Washington dropped its “delusional” demand that he give up his nuclear weapons.
The two leaders last met in 2019 for a surprise summit at Panmunjom in the Joint Security Area, the only place where soldiers from the two Koreas face each other on a regular basis. AFP
Cuba nabs suspected Chinese fentanyl kingpin
MEXICO CITY – Cuba has arrested a suspected Chinese fentanyl kingpin who escaped from custody in Mexico and is also wanted by the United States, the Mexican government said Wednesday.
The trafficker Zhi Dong Zhang, known by the alias “Brother Wang,” is alleged to have worked closely with Mexico’s Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation drug cartels, designated “foreign terrorist organizations” by Washington. His arrest was confirmed by the Security Secretariat.
Security sources told AFP it is not yet clear if the suspect will be deported from Cuba back to Mexico or a formal extradition process needs to be undertaken.
Detained in Mexico in Oct. 2024, Zhi Dong Zhang was held in a prison in Mexico City awaiting a hearing for his extradition to the United States, where a warrant has been issued for his arrest on money laundering charges. He was granted house arrest, from which he escaped in July. AFP
BRUSSELS – EU leaders will look Thursday to greenlight a potential mammoth new loan for Ukraine using Russian frozen assets, in a bid to bolster Kyiv as US President Donald Trump vacillates on peace efforts with Moscow.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will join a summit of the EU’s 27 leaders in Brussels -- before heading to London on Friday -- as Europe presses to shore up support after Trump put on ice a proposed meeting with Russia’s Vladimir Putin in Budapest.
Zelenskyy and his key backers are seeking to seize on Trump’s demand for Russia and Ukraine to stop fighting along the current front line and shift the onus from Kyiv to Moscow to make concessions.
Hopes that Trump could take against Putin got a boost Wednesday when US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington would unveil “a substantial pickup” in sanctions against Russia, and accused the Russian leader of not being “honest and forthright” in talks.
Kremlin-friendly Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico held up approval for the sanctions until he got assurances from Brussels over protections for Bratislava’s car industry.
The sanctions also see the EU blacklist more tankers in Russia’s “shadow fleet,” used to get round oil export restrictions, and impose new rules on Moscow’s dip-
Japan PM to advance defense spending target
TOKYO – Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi aims to achieve the target of spending two percent of GDP on defense two years early, media reports said days before a visit by US President Donald Trump. Long-pacifist Japan has moved towards a more muscular defense policy but with an eye on China, Washington -- which has around 60,000 military personnel in Japan -- wants it to do more.
Tokyo’s previous target was to be spending two percent of gross domestic product in the 2027-28 fiscal year.
But Takaichi wants this achieved in the current tax year running to March
Inside India’s RSS are Hindu ultranationalists
NAGPUR, India – Brandishing bamboo sticks and chanting patriotic hymns, thousands of uniformed men parade in central India, a striking show of strength by the country’s millions-strong Hindu ultranationalist group.
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh -- the National Volunteer Organisation, or RSS -- marked its 100th anniversary this month with a grand ceremony at its headquarters in Nagpur.
AFP was one of a handful of foreign media outlets granted rare access to the group, which forms the ideological and organizational backbone of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in power since 2014.
Like the 75-year-old prime minister, critics accuse it of eroding the rights of India’s Muslim minority and undermining the secular constitution . At the parade, RSS volunteers in white shirts, brown trousers and black hats marched, boxed and stretched in time to shrill whistles and barked orders.
“Forever I bow to thee, loving Motherland! Motherland of us Hindus!” they sang, in a scene that evoked paramilitary drills of the past.
“May my life... be laid down in thy cause!” AFP
31, 2026, Jiji Press, Kyodo News and other media reported on Wednesday and Thursday.
Takaichi, who became Japan’s first woman prime minister this week, was expected to make the announcement in her first policy speech in parliament on Friday. She will also pledge to revise three key defence and security policy documents by the end of 2026, the report said.
Trump was due to arrive in Japan on Monday in between a Southeast Asian Nations summit in Malaysia and an AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea.
The US president has also heaped pressure on other US allies to boost defense spending, including the EU and NATO members.
Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Wednesday that Tokyo will tell Trump that it will place a “fundamental strengthening of defense capabilities as the top priority, based on the ongoing reviewing of the key security documents”.
Takaichi, 64, an acolyte of former premier Shinzo Abe who had warm relations with Trump, has long been viewed as a China hawk, although she toned down her rhetoric in the recent leadership contest. AFP
‘B.LOODY ORIGINS.’ Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh volunteers take part in the Hindu nationalist organization’s centenary celebrations at Reshimbagh Ground in Nagpur Thursday. Brandishing bamboo sticks and chanting patriotic hymns, thousands of uniformed men parade in central India, a striking show of strength by the country’s millions-strong Hindu ultranationalist group that marked its 100th anniversary with a grand ceremony at its headquarters in Nagpur. AFP
lomats to curb their travel around Europe.
While attention will primarily home in on the current war wracking the continent, leaders will also cover plans to prepare for a potential broader conflict with Russia in the future.
After a series of high-profile air incursions and mysterious drone flights, Brussels has proposed building a system of anti-drone defenses as one of a number of urgently needed defense priorities. Leaders are set to endorse a roadmap that aims to prepare the EU for war by 2030. While the talks in the British capital look set to focus more on keeping the mercurial US leader on board, the summit in Brussels will center on how to keep funding Ukraine and piling more pressure on Moscow.
A key part of the EU’s support for Kyiv rests on a plan for a new 140-billion-euro ($163-billion) “reparations loan” funded by Russian central bank assets frozen in the bloc. Belgium, where the bulk of the money is held at international deposit organization Euroclear, has demanded guarantees the rest of the EU will share any liabilities if Russia goes to court. AFP
Myanmar scam center raid sends 677 crossing into Thailand
BANGKOK – Nearly 700 people fled one of Myanmar’s most notorious scam centers and crossed into Thailand, a Thai provincial official told AFP on Thursday, after a military raid on the compound. Sprawling
Sawanit Suriyakul Na Ayutthaya, deputy governor of Tak province on the Myanmar border, told AFP “677 people fled from the scam center” KK Park in Myanmar across the Moei river into Thailand as of Thursday morning.
“Immigration police and a military task force have worked together to provide assistance under humanitarian procedures... and they will undergo screening,” Sawanit said. He added the process will allow authorities to determine if individuals are victims of human trafficking, and if not, they may be prosecuted for illegal border crossing.
While some scam workers are clearly trafficked into often fortified compounds, experts say others go voluntarily with hopes of earning more in the multibilliondollar illicit industry than they can at home.
The Tak Provincial Administration office, which oversees the area, said in a statement that the group entering from Myanmar comprised “foreign nationals” -- both men and women -- and authorities expected more to cross into Thailand.
Indonesian state news agency Antara reported around 20 Indonesians had “successfully crossed into Thai territory via the Moei River” as of Wednesday evening, according to the Indonesian embassy in Yangon, which cited Thai authorities. AFP
Trump, Colombia leader Petro trade threats as US strikes boats in Pacific
WASHINGTON, DC – President Donald Trump and his Colombian counterpart Gustavo Petro traded angry threats Wednesday (Thursday Manila time) as the United States announced strikes on two alleged drug-smuggling boats in the
Vladimir Putin
SPORTS
Golfers, combat sports, tracksters in spotlight; PH seeks more medals
M
ANAMA, Bahrain—The
Chef De Mission of the Philippine delegation to the 3rd Asian Youth Games is optimistic of the country’s chances of winning more medals as action in the multi-sports event goes full blast on Thursday.
Ramon “Tats” Suzara sees combat sports delivering several more on the Filipinos’ medal coffers in the wake of the gold haul provided by pencak silat through Kram Airam Carpio in the girls’ 51-55 kg weight.
“I think golf. Taekwondo. A lot of martial arts, I think we have a lot of chances,” he said shortly after parading with members of the Philippine contingent during the glitzy opening ceremony Wednesday night at the Exhibition World Bahrain here.
“May muay pa tayo,” Suzara noted.
“We’ll do our best in individual sports. Let’s hope for the best in the next few days.” Golf and taekwondo delivered the golds for the country during the last edition of the meet in Nanjing, China twelve years ago courtesy of Mia Legaspi and Pauline Lopez.
Suzara is keeping his fingers crossed the Filipinos will be able to improve on the Philippines’ two-gold and three-silver effort in 2013. The three silvers were provided by Princess Superal (golf), Francis Aaron Agojo (taekwondo), and
FRUSTRATING. Disappointing. Irritating. But more sad actually.
This is to sum up the recent announcements made by Mico Gutierrez, team manager of the Philippine Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT). Well on my side at least. Gutierrez’s take on possible tune-up games for the national team and ongoing recruitment of players to represent the country is quite shaky to say the least. It is not comforting either.
If I understand it right, whatever tune-up games that we might have will depend on the goodness of the heart of any foreign national team willing to pick up the expenses that comes from inviting our side to play with them.
Following this train of thought, can we expect that there will be no exhibition games for the PMNFT before the Maldives away game next month?
We already saw the team play against Timor-Leste without any tune-up game, which could have helped a lot for the new coaching staff and the players to know
Boxer Leo Mhar Lobrido and Volleybelle Harlyn Serneche carry the Philippine Flag during the 3rd Asian Youth Games opening ceremony
Jurence Mendoza (tennis).
“I hope we can surpass the target because we have 200 athletes here. The Asian Youth Games has the same level of playing field because they’re (athletes) young. Siguro yung iba may experience na like the Thais, meron na silang experience sa age group,” he said.
The CDM noted Alas Pilipinas’ U-18 team’s five-set win over South Korea in girls’ volleyball in stressing
his point about the level playing field in the tournament, but was later swept by Thailand in the preliminaries.
At the same time, Suzara added the country’s campaign should augurs well to the plans of the Philippine Sports Commission to start taking under its wings promising members of the youth teams.
“I think it’s an eye opener on the part of the Philippine Olympic Committee
and the PSC now that chairman (Pato)
Gregorio would like the junior teams become part of the national pool under the PSC. I think it’s a good start,” he said.
“This is good because it’s a realignment from the PSC about the Batang Pinoy hand in hand with the Youth Olympic Games and the Asian Youth Games.”The Youth Olympic Games will be held next year in Dakar, Senegal.
That confidence in the absence of knowledge
more about each other. It was very fortunate that we won both games, but what if we split the points in the match-up or worse, lost a game in the two game series? I’m sure there will be a lot of fallout if that happens. A lot of excuses too but less of accountability perhaps.
Yes, it is a given that our teams have been winning. The PMNFT currently sits on top of Group A in the ongoing Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers. The Women’s U17 side has booked its ticket in the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup finals after topping its group, winning all their games in the group fixtures, in the Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers.
Yes, these wins should be the narrative and not the issues or concerns being raised against the Philippine Football Federation.
But no, the more pertinent subject now is how we are preparing for the game against Maldives.
Someone will ask, what are the issues or concerns The Designated Kit Man is talking about?
First, what about the allegation that a player took several stops, while flying coach just for him to be present in the game against Timor-Leste in Darwin? He was so challenged by the ordeal that by the time he arrived in Australia, he was so gassed out and was actually sick from the experience.
Concepcion keeps cool under fire, zeroes in on elusive PGT crown
DAVAO City—Pressed hard by a pack of homegrown aces midway through the pivotal third round Thursday, Fidel Concepcion stood his ground and delivered a steely performance that brought him within striking distance of a long-awaited breakthrough on the Philippine Golf Tour. In searing heat and on the unforgiving fairways of the Apo Golf and Country Club here, Concepcion produced the day’s lone under-par card – a gritty 71 – to seize the solo lead at four-under 212, three shots clear of veteran Elmer Salvador.
It was a round that spoke volumes about the Filipino-Australian’s composure and resolve. Several times, he’s been in contention over the past eight years, only to see titles slip away in the home stretch, including a runner-up finish to Keanu Jahns at Binitin last month. But this time, his focus held firm, his touch steady and his patience unflinching amid the heat and baked greens and difficult pin placements that have rattled even the most seasoned campaigners.
“Tomorrow (Friday), I’ll have a chance to do something I’ve never done before, and it’s a pretty good opportunity to keep proving to myself that eventually, it will happen,” said Concepcion, who admitted that the pressure came more from within than from the local contenders.
“There’s a lot more pressure coming from myself than from handling the locals,” he added. “But as long as I can manage that internal pressure, I should be okay.”
To finally break through in the P3.5 million championship, Concepcion said his focus would be simple: “keep the ball in play.”
“If you hit the wrong side of the fairways or the greens, it’s pretty tough to make pars,” he explained. And keep the ball in play he
Do you think that after this, his mother club, which pays him to be tournament fit all the time, will allow him to play for flag and country again? Probably on international FIFA windows, but if it can find a way not to do so, it will definitely not for sure.
And what about the other players?
Another issue, there are claims that all the staff and players that worked in the last two games against Timor-Leste were given P5,000. This is a far cry from the usual $1,000 given by former team manager Freddy Gonzalez per window.
For sure, a lot of the players and staff were not happy. “The whole staff last night were absolutely gutted and demotivated,” someone who knew what happened said.
Again, some apologists would say that their work and sacrifices are nothing, but a privilege for serving in the national team. This is the same logic or excuse given why so many public servants work for the government despite the low pay, long hours, no support and not being appreciated by the boss. One thing is sure, this is not acceptable.
On the status of recruiting high-profile names for national duty, Gutierrez said that “Apparently, it’s not as simple as if you have a Filipino mom or a Filipino Dad, then you can instantly get a Filipino passport.” True. No argument here. It takes a lot of
did. While others faltered under the course’s demanding setup – where errant shots and tricky lies punished even the slightest mistake – he stayed composed, stringing together steady pars and timely birdies to keep his momentum intact and close in on his first title worth P630,000.
Tied with James Ryan Lam after 36 holes, Concepcion stumbled with a 37 on the front nine as the lead changed hands almost after every hole. However, he regained momentum with a birdie on No. 10 to move back in front, then solidified his position with another birdie on the par-5 13th.
As Davao standouts Salvador, Tony Lascuña, Elee Bisera and Zanieboy Gialon, and Lam faltered one after another, Concepcion remained composed and focused, carding pars over the last five holes to secure a commanding three-stroke lead over Salvador. Still, the battle is far from over. Breathing down his neck are some of the country’s most accomplished pros – Salvador, Lascuña, Bisera and Gialon – all of them masters of the demanding layout and hungry to reclaim glory. Salvador, in particular, remains a looming threat. The local favorite has drawn on years of experience navigating Apo’s nuances, keeping himself firmly in the hunt despite the punishing conditions. He had shown flashes of brilliance at Del Monte last week – his first tournament this year – before retiring in the final round due to exhaustion. This time, however, Salvador – the first back-to-back winner of a regional tour in Cebu from 2012 to 2013 –looks reenergized and poised to make one final push.
PH triathlete injured in crash at Bahrain tilt
IT was tough luck for the Philippines in triathlon on the morning of the opening ceremony of the Asian Youth Games, as Euan Arrow Ramos crashed out of the competition on Thursday at Sofitel Bahrain. Ramos suffered scratches and bruises all over, including his right arm and leg, after hitting the deck when his wheel clipped a cateye on a tight turn in the race featuring 39 triathletes. The 15-year-old Ramos came out of the water in ninth place and had closed in on the leaders during the bike stage when he apparently ran over a reflective road stud and crashed. He was brought to Bahrain Defense Force Hospital. The cones had to be moved after several incidents, which slightly altered the course, but Triathlon Association of the Philippines secretary general Ting Joson said they can’t blame the results on these things.
effort, time, patience, balde-baldeng pawis at luha, and tons of money to identify, scout and recruit foreign-based Filipinos to come and play for the three stars and the sun. Just ask Dan Palami or Jeff Cheng.
Just two points though before moving on. One, it took you this long to realize this and the second but more important concern, what do you intend to do about it?
The call for foreign-based Filipinos who are interested in playing for the country to put their papers in order on their own is very noble. Just hoping that someone will eventually do this, and soon.
The Designated Kit Man reached out to Gelix Mercader, the general secretary of PFF, on his comments on these concerns.
I’m still waiting for his reply.
This is personal.
How true are the reports claiming that after a game, this manager brought some of his players to a casino?
Given that the players are old enough to do whatever they want after a game, still this is something not expected from an organization supposed to be run by professionals. But then again. Stay safe. Stay happy peeps!
For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @erelcabatbat
Last 2 semis slots up for grabs in SSL
IT all boils down to who wants it more, as the last two teams to advance to the 2025 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Preseason Unity Cup semifinals will be decided in a couple of do-or-die quarterfinal matches on Friday at the Paco Arena.
College of Saint Benilde and University of the Philippines look to complete a shocker after forcing their twice-to-beat opponents to a sudden death.
The Lady Blazers march back into battle against Adamson University at 3 p.m. before the Fighting Maroons meet Far Eastern University for the last time at 5 p.m.
CSB took advantage of the No. 2-seeded Lady Falcons playing sans injured main scorer Shaina Nitura to eke out a 28-26, 20-25, 25-15, 1925, 15-12, victory and drag the showdown into a rubber match last Tuesday. Rhea Densing, who dropped 24 points last game, Zam Nolasco, Camila Bartolome and sisters Shekaina and Shahanna Lleses will again lead the four-time NCAA champions’ charge for a breakthrough Final Four appearance in the league’s
“It was unfortunate because malakas si Arrow and the boys prepared well. It’s unfortunate na may cat eye dun,” Joson said. “Kahit na sabihin mong they changed the course on the fly, prerogative ng officials yun if they feel this is the safer way to do it.” “As a technical official, nakita na may ganung accident and you can avoid that from happening again, you have to make those calls,” Joson said.
Compounding the Philippines’ woes was Peter Sancho del Rosario losing his 12th spot, ending up disqualified after an infraction at the second transition when he started removing his headgear before setting his bike on the rack. China’s Li Yansong won in 27 minutes, 0.4 seconds. Kazakhstan’s Ramazan Ainegov finished in 27:11 for silver, and Korea’s Kang Woohyeon earned bronze in 27:13.
Mesmerizing opening rites Harlyn Serneche of volleyball and boxer Leo Mhar Lobrido carried the Philippine flag during the lavish opening rites at the Exhibition World Bahrain on Wednesday night.
Bahrain came up with a captivating multimedia stage production, with superb performances by the local artists and mermerizing lighting effects as they welcomed the representatives of the 45 nations.
Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino commended Bahrain for the excellent hosting so far, from facilities to logistics, especially since it accepted the hosting rights only in December last year.
Friday (Paco Arena)
centerpiece tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner and R and B Milk Tea.
With Alas Pilipinas standout Nitura still doubtful, Adamson, the SSL National Invitationals Cebu Leg winner, will rely on the trio of Joy Aseo, Frances Mordi and Abegail Segui to shoulder the offense.
The winner of the CSB-Adamson clash will face twice-to-beat University of Santo Tomas in the semis on Sunday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. Meanwhile, UP is brimming with confidence after pulling off a comefrom-behind, 25-27, 25-21, 25-18, 2520, stunner over the reigning National Invitationals Batangas Leg titlists Lady Tamaraws.
Fiden Concepcion Manny Marcelo
The Designated Kit Man Erel Cabatbat
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2025
Editor
RIERA U. MALLARI,
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
EV Crossovers
end PVL skid, turn back
Highrisers in 3
CHERY Tiggo, reeling from a frustrating string of near-misses, finally broke through with a resounding straight-set victory, dismantling Galeries Tower, 25-9, 25-16, 25-23, in the PVL Reinforced Conference at the FilOil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Thursday.
While the third set turned out to be the only tight stretch of the match, the Crossovers displayed composure that had eluded them in previous outings. Even when the Highrisers managed to tie the count at 23 on Jean Asis’ runner, Chery Tiggo didn’t flinch.
Pauline Gaston powered through a single block and Shaya Adorador sealed the deal with an off-theblock hit – two clutch plays that underscored the Crossovers’ regained poise under pressure.
In contrast, the Highrisers failed to capitalize on a couple of offensive thrusts, both of which were excellently dug and defended by the Crossovers. Those two crucial points ultimately sealed the onehour, 22 -minute showdown between the winless squads.
Gaston, who scored 10 points, including two blocks, earned Best Player of the Game honors. Her post-match remarks reflected the team’s renewed sense of purpose and unity despite their rocky start to the year-ending conference organized by Sports Vision and backed by ICTSI, Milcu, Mikasa and Fabriano.
“We really polished everything. It wasn’t easy, but we showed what we’ve been working on,” said Gaston. “There’s still a lot to fix, but we’re committed to staying together and playing as one.”
Import Yuni Batista dominated her counterpart Jelene Cvijovic, erupting for 20 points against the Galeries Tower reinforcement’s meager six. Ara Galang provided solid support with 11 points, while Cess Robles chipped in five and Mylene Paat and Shaya Adorador added three apiece.
Eala, Ukraine partner make Guangzhou quarter nals
WORLD no. 53 Alexandra “Alex” Eala of the Philippines and partner Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine won their doubles’ match at the Guangzhou Open on Thursday.
The two got past the fourth-seeded pair of Emily Appleton and Qianhui Tang, 6-4, 6-2, in an encounter that lasted 68 minutes at the Nansha International Tennis Center.
This put the 20-year-old Eala and the 33-year-old Kichenok into the quarterfinals against Polina Kudermetova and Kamilla Rakhimova.
Kichenok is known as a veteran doubles’ specialist with 10 WTA doubles’ titles.
Kudermetova and Rakhimova put away Peangtarn Plipuech of Thailand and Wushuang Zheng, 2-6, 6-3, 10-3, to arrange the clash with Eala and Kichenok.
It was Eala’s first win since her return to doubles’ competition since June, when she teamed up with Eva Lys at the Wimbledon Open.
Joining Eala and Kichenok in the quarterfinals are second seeds Isabelle Haverlag and Maia Lumsden, 6-4, 6-3. Haverlag and Lumsden will go up against Alicia Barnett and Elixane Lechemia, who prevailed over I-Hsuan Cho and Yi Tsen Cho, 6-4, 7-6(3).
In easing out Appleton and Tang, Eala and Kichenok broke serve in the ninth game, and held fourth in the 10th during the first set.
In the second set, Eala and Kichenok broke service twice for the 5-2 advantage.
Earlier, Chinese-American standout
Claire Liu held off Eala with her versatile, all-court game for a 2-6, 6-4, 6-4, upset win on Tuesday evening in the first round of the singles’ competition. Peter Atencio
Yulo ready for world’s big guns in exercise, vault finals
By Peter Atencio
OLYMPIC vault and floor exercise champion
Carlos Yulo is in familiar company in the finals of the 53rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships.
The 25-year-old Yulo said this days before he made the finals on two of his favorite events, the floor and the vault, on Sunday evening, as he braces for tough challenges from Olympic medalists like Jake Jarman and Artur Davtyan.
“I know that they’re really working hard for the spot and I’m really grateful that I’m at their level and putting that much pressure on me, especially in the floor and vault,” said Yulo, who topped the vault event, and was second in the floor exercise, during the qualifications held at the Indonesia Arena in Jakarta, Indonesia.
The Leveriza, Manila-born Yulo, talked about his reflections on the event’s official website, as he averaged 14.750 off a beautiful-piked Dragulescu and handspring front, to go with a 2 and 1/2 twist, when he led in the vault.
Yulo’s preparations comes as Daiki Hashimoto
won his third consecutive all-around crown Wednesday, after emerging as the highest scorer in the vault (14.466) and horizontal bar (14.700).
Zhang Boheng of China and rising Swiss star Noe Seifert took the silver and bronze after Hashimoto’s domestic rival Oka Shinnosuke (JPN) faded in the floor exercise, after missing a 2.5 twist to front layout and fell to fourth.
“It’s going to be a tough competition for me at the same time, but I’m going to make sure to prepare myself,” added Yulo, as he gets ready for the two final events that will happen on Friday and Saturday evening. Yulo was ahead of two-time Olympic medallist Artur Davtyan of Armenia, who had a 14.566. Ukrainian Nazar Chepurnyi was third at 14.316. “(Oka) Shinnosuke, (Hashimoto) Daiki, Zhang Boheng will be there, all the Americans, the British gymnasts,” noted Yulo. In the vault, Yulo was second to Filipino-British bet Jarman, who led the qualifiers at 14.7. Yulo averaged 14.566 on this event.
American gymnast Nelson Kameron, who was penalized at 0.1, was third with 14.3.
Filipino artist to stage ‘Thrilla’ art show for 50th anniversary
By Randy M. Calaug
FILIPINO artist Rudy Aquino will stage a one-man art show on October 27–29 at the Red Gate of the Smart Araneta Coliseum, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the “Thrilla in Manila,” the historic 1975 boxing match between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier.
The exhibit, titled “Thrilla in Manila: 50th Anniversary,” will feature Aquino’s boxing-inspired artworks that trace their roots to his childhood fascination with the sport.
Aquino said his love for boxing art began in 1975, when he was seven years old. His first “Thrilla in Manila” drawing, he recalled, was sold by his grandfather for one peso.
“I felt great being paid, and I used that
DAVAO City—Just days after watching a sure victo-
ry slip painfully through her fingers, Chanelle Avaricio rose from heartbreak to glory in emphatic fashion.
The ace shotmaker transformed disappointment into dominance at the ICTSI Apo Golf Classic, claiming the crown with a commanding seven-stroke victory over
Mafy Singson despite a 73 here on Thursday.
It wasn’t just a win – it was a statement. Coming off a crushing defeat at Del Monte, where she faltered down the stretch and lost to Sarah Ababa in sudden death, Avaricio arrived at the Apo Golf and Country Club carrying the sting of that collapse. The memories lingered and the questions about her ability to close out a lead hovered in the air.
But as she teed off with an eight-shot advantage after 36 holes, Avaricio showed no trace of hesitation – only resolve.
“It feels great,” said Avaricio, visibly exhaling a sigh of relief after bouncing back from a confidence-testing setback just a week ago – the kind that could have easily shattered the spirit of lesser mortals. “Last week, I really fought but came up short. But I’m happy that I did well enough to win this one.”
For Avaricio, who finished with a three-under 213 and pocketed the top purse of P117,000, the triumph was not merely about reclaiming a title, but about regaining her rhythm, confidence and composure. Coming off a tough loss, she turned her disappointment into motivation, channeling the lessons from that experience into renewed fo-
of buying a baby goat with his art earnings — a pet he briefly owned before his family returned it due to its noise. Over the years, Aquino’s passion evolved into a professional pursuit. He has since worked with several sports personalities in the United States and Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao.
Aquino dedicated his upcoming exhibit to his late mother Naty Santiago, his grandfather Victor Santiago, and his family. He also thanked MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons, Billy Whiteford, Lulu of Araneta Center, and his supporters from the boxing and art communities.
“This is a tribute to my family, to my mentors, and to the history of Philippine boxing,” Aquino said. “Thank you to everyone who believed in me.”
cus and determination.
She, however, refused to place this victory above any of her previous achievements, choosing instead to view it as part of her continuing journey as an athlete.
“This win means a lot, the same as all my other wins in the past. It feels great,” she said, smiling as she reflected on her consistent drive to improve.
With an opening-round 72 giving her a narrow one-shot edge over Singson, Avaricio shifted into high gear in Round 2. Her clinical 68 widened the gap to eight strokes over Princess Superal, setting the stage for what would become a coronation rather than a contest.
Singson, who stumbled with a second-round 79 that left her 10 strokes behind, mounted an early charge in the final round with two birdies in the first three holes. threatening to stir memories of Del Monte. But this time, Avaricio held sway. Avaricio extended her lead with a birdie on the sixth but faltered with bogeys on Nos. 9, 11 and 12. Singson, meanwhile, failed to capitalize on her hot start, settling for 12 straight pars before rediscovering her touch with birdies on Nos. 16 and 18 to card a solid 68. Her late surge earned her a runner-up finish at 220, worth ₱82,000.
Rudy Aquino (right) with one of his artworks-- a Muhammad Ali portrait.
Chanelle Avaricio earns a victory splash from her peers. Manny Marcelo
Chery Tiggo’s Pauline Gaston soars for a kill in the PVL Reinforced Conference at the FilOil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Thursday.
Calos Yulo
peso to buy baby chicks as pets,” Aquino said. “That’s where it all started.”
Using crayons, Aquino honed his skills daily, driven by a childlike dream
E-MOBILITY AWARD.
Secretary Frederick Go (center), Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs, receives the E-Mobility Award from Edmuno Araga (right), president of Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) and Rommel Juan (chairman) during the opening of the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit at SMX Convention Center on Oct. 23, 2025. Joseph Muego
September gov’t spending tumbled
By Darwin G. Amojelar and Thony Rose Lesaca
BOTH government revenue collection and public expenditures tumbled in September 2025 from a year ago as a flood control project scandal restrained disbursements, but the nine-month budget deficit remained below its programmed target due to sustained revenue growth, the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) said Thursday.
The BTr reported that revenues fell 5.99 percent in September to P281.7 billion from P299.7 billion a year ago. Expenditures also shrank 7.53 percent to P529.8 billion from P572.9 billion. The decrease was primarily attributed to lower spending performance by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which is undertaking an ongoing validation of completed projects and strictly verifying progress billings and payment claims, the Treasury said in a statement.
This resulted in a budget shortfall of P248.1 billion in September, which was lower than the P273.3-billion
deficit posted a year earlier.
Data from the BTr showed that the overall fiscal deficit for the period ending September 2025 stood at P1.12 trillion, remaining below the programmed deficit of P1.26 trillion for the same period.
The agency affirmed that the government remains on track to keep the deficit within its full-year target of P1.56 trillion.
Total revenues reached P3.37 trillion by the end of the third quarter, a 2.24-percent increase over last year’s level, led by higher tax collections. This performance puts revenue on track to hit the full-year
program of P4.52 trillion.
Tax revenues accounted for the majority of the year-to-date (YTD) collections at P3.05 trillion, posting an 8.56-percent growth from the previous year.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) collected P2.32 trillion, posting another double-digit growth of 10.88 percent year-on-year (YoY), on the back of higher collections from corporate income tax, personal income tax, value-added tax, excise tax on tobacco and percentage tax on banks and financial institutions.
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) registered a 1.59 percent YoY improvement, raising P701.7 billion in the same nine-month period.
Meanwhile, non-tax collections reached P314.1 billion, 34.71 percent lower YoY due to the base effect of extraordinary non-recurring remittances in 2024.
Nine-month non-tax revenues already exceeded the 2025 program of P306.5 billion. Total disbursements as of end-September reached P4.48 trillion, posting a 5.18 percent YoY growth.
PH eyes 2.5 million EVs by 2040, weighs manufacturing incentives
By Othel V. Campos
THE Philippines’ electric vehicle (EV) industry is expected to see “exponential growth,” with total EVs projected to reach at least 2.5 million units by 2040, according to the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP).
EVAP president Edmund Araga said the target is “within reach” as sales continue to break records. EV registrations “skyrocketed to 29,715 from January to July this year, already surpassing the total number in 2024,” Araga said at the opening of the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit in Pasay City.
The figure represents about 5 percent of new vehicle registrations, or three times the number two years ago, Araga said, citing Land Transportation Office (LTO) data. Of the total, 28,353 units were new registrations and 1,362 were renewals.
The EV sector’s long-term goal is to have electric vehicles account for at least half of all vehicles on Philippine roads by 2040. This will be supported by plans to deploy about 7,300 charging stations nationwide by 2028 and 20,400 by 2040.
“As EV numbers rise sharply every year, the number of charging stations must keep
pace to convince more Filipinos to shift to electric mobility,” Araga said, adding that the expansion of charging infrastructure is essential.
Meanwhile, the government is studying the creation of a new incentives program specifically for electric vehicles to attract more manufacturing investments into the country, according to Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (SAPEIA) Frederick Go.
Go said the proposed initiative would mirror the structure of the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) and the Resilient Automotive Community Ecosystem (RACE) programs but would be dedicated entirely to EVs.
“We need to craft a different program for EVs. Before, we had CARS and then RACE, but those are for non-EVs. So we have to come up with one for EVs. Similar programs are better suited for the sector,”
Go said in an interview on the sidelines of summit.
Go said the policy should be implemented “as soon as possible” to encourage EV assemblers to establish local production facilities. He disclosed that one potential assembler is already in exploratory talks to set up operations in the Philippines.
By Jenniffer B. Austria
and the installation of a 46-kilometer conveyance to coincide with the completion of the New Centennial Water SourceKaliwa Dam of Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS).
An electric vehicle is on display at the opening of the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit at SMX Convention Center on Oct. 23, 2025. Joseph Muego
BUSINESS
VinFast aims for No. 1 EV brand in PH by next year
VINFAST Philippines is setting its sights on becoming the country’s No. 1 battery electric vehicle (BEV) brand by 2026, as it accelerates dealership expansion, strengthens ser-ice networks and ramps up unit availability across the country.
Antonio Zara, VinFast Philippines chief executive, said the Vietnamese automaker’s local operations are now in the startup phase but are gearing up for rapid growth ahead of a major brand launch in the fourth quarter of 2025.
“We’re targeting to be the No. 1 BEV brand by next year,” Zara said in a media briefing. “The actual number of units will depend on industry performance and EV penetration, which we estimate to reach around 4 percent to 5 percent of total vehicle sales in 2026, or roughly 20,000 to 25,000 BEVs.”
Zara said VinFast’s growth will be driven by both retail and fleet demand, citing the company’s ongoing partnership with Green Smart Mobility (GSM), a ride-hailing and fleet operator under the same VinGroup umbrella.
“Thousands of GSM units are already on the road, and that number will grow significantly over the next three months,” he said. “As GSM expands operations in Cebu, Davao and other cities, we expect strong followthrough demand from other transport operators who want to compete with GSM’s rates.”
To support its growing vehicle base, VinFast plans to double its dealership network to at least 30 by the end of 2025 and expand to 50 nationwide by next year, covering Lu-zon, Visayas and Mindanao.
The company is also building an ecosystem of third-party service workshops—similar to Bosch Car Service or Motolite centers—to improve service accessibility for fleet operators.
“These workshops will be accredited, trained and equipped with the necessary tools and software. They can perform periodic maintenance and warranty repairs, except for heavy electronic diagnostics, which will be handled by our dealers,” Zara said.
Charging infrastructure, a critical enabler for EV adoption, is also being addressed through VinGroup’s energy subsidiary VGREEN, which has committed to installing 15,000 charging points nationwide.
“The charging ecosystem is expanding quickly, and that’s key to faster EV adoption,” Zara said. “Once consumers experience EVs, they realize how convenient and economical they are. Adoption starts slow but rises exponentially once the mass market catches on.”
Othel V. Campos
PH urged to redefine role in global minerals chain
By Othel V. Campos
THE Philippines must redefine its position in the global minerals value chain by crafting its own list of critical minerals and updating its resource maps to attract long-term investments in downstream industries, said geologist Graciano Yumul Jr. during the opening Wednesday of the Mining Philippines 2025 Conference and Exhibition at the Grand Hyatt Manila.
“Each country defines its own critical mineral trove,” he said, emphasizing that the Philippines must decide whether it will develop minerals for domestic industrialization or continue exporting them as raw commodities. He proposed updating the nation’s
mineral prospectivity maps to reflect new geological data and previously untapped deposits such as massive sulfides, magnetite skarn and iron oxide copper gold (IOCG) systems. These include potential sources of gallium, germanium and rare earth elements—vital components in renewable energy and digital technologies.
Yumul also called for stronger fiscal and regulatory incentives to encourage value-adding projects and attract technology partners with shared environmental and development goals.
He identified three forces shaping the industry’s future: the green transition, rapid digital transformation and the “human capital transfiguration” —a generational shift demanding new technical skills and workplace dynamics.
URBAN renewal was the theme that dominated the talks between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Manila Mayor Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso in Malacañang last week.
Manila and other cities comprising the National Capital Region (NCR) have been ripe for urban renewal to make them inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable in the face of climate change.
It is a gargantuan task. The Philippines’ capital is a densely populated city facing the Manila Bay. But the challenge of urban renewal is worthwhile because of Manila’s own charm. The city is a mixture of Spanish colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. At the heart of Manila is Intramuros, a walled city in colonial times, and home to the baroque 16th-century San Agustin Church, as well as Fort Santiago, a fortress and a former military prison.
President Marcos and Mayor Isko Moreno, as he is more famously known, discussed, among other things, the rehabilitation of the Lambingan Bridge, the game-changer North–South Commuter Railway (NSCR) project and cleanup operations that will reduce flooding and rehabilitate urban waterways.
President Marcos on Sunday launched Phase 4 of the Pasig River rehabilitation program, promising to turn another stretch of the historic waterway into a walkable, bike-friendly hub for leisure, commerce and sustainable travel.
Mitsubishi Power to build PLP’s gas plant in Singapore
By Alena Mae S. Flores
PACIFICLIGHT Power Pte. Ltd.
(PLP) has awarded an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract to a consortium comprising Mitsubishi Power, a power solutions brand of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), and Jurong Engineering Limited (JEL) to develop Singapore’s largest, high-efficiency combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) facility.
“This project represents a significant leap forward in PacificLight’s decarbonization journey and our commitment to powering Singapore with cleaner, more resilient energy. By investing in large-scale energy storage and hydrogen-ready technology, we are future-proofing our infrastructure to meet future energy demands,” said Yu Tat Ming, PLP chief executive.
“We are proud to partner Mitsubishi Power and Jurong Engineering in advancing Singapore’s sustainable future for generations to come,” he said.
PLP is a joint venture between Meralco PowerGen Corp. and First Pacific Co. Ltd.
The power plant will be the first CCGT unit in Singapore integrated with a large-scale battery energy storage system (BESS), enabling dynamic energy management to align electricity supply with grid demand.
Located on Jurong Island, the 670-megawatt (MW) facility, capable of powering more than 965,000 fourroom flats, is scheduled to begin operations in 2029.
It will have the ability to operate on 30 percent hydrogen and will be capable of shifting to run entirely on hydrogen in the future.
Redeveloping Intramuros and Manila
“EverytimewegatherherebythePasigRiver, we are reminded that progress does not always mean building something new. Sometimes, progress means bringing something beautiful back to life,” Marcos said during the launch at the Lawton Pasig River Ferry station in Manila.
The new 530-meter segment stretches from behind the Manila Central Post Office to Arroceros Forest Park. It features walkways, bike lanes and commercial spaces, connecting seamlessly to earlier completed phases near Intramuros.
President Marcos said the project aims to create “a continuous riverside path that will link people, culture and opportunity.”
Mayor Moreno also bared local urban development priorities, including plans to convert the Intramuros golf course into a public forest park.
The conversion of Intramuros into a public forest park, perhaps, is the most sensible feature of Manila’s redevelopment. The Intramuros golf course, in the words of the local chief executive, is underutilized and could provide residents a major green space.
The golf course’s transformation will erase one of the last vestiges of American colonization in the Philippines. The golf course used to be a moat surrounding the walled area of Intramuros.
The Americans converted it into a sunken garden before transforming it into a golf course in the early 1900s
—“—
The conversion of Intramuros into a public forest park … is the most sensible feature of Manila’s redevelopment.
President Marcos, whose official residence is in Manila, agreed with Mayor Moreno’s plans. He favored the restoration of historic landmarks, the rehabilitation of 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. Meaningful renewal Cosmetic changes alone, however, do not translate into real urban renewal. Poor urban planning in the past created inequities and pollution.
The cost of poorly planned urbanization, according to the United Nations, can be seen in some of the huge slums, tangled traffic, greenhouse gas emissions and sprawling suburbs all over the world.
Development inequality and the levels of urban energy consumption and pollution, says the UN, are some of the challenges.
Cities occupy just 3 per cent of the Earth’s land, but account for 60 percent to 80 per
cent of energy consumption and 75 percent of carbon emissions.
“Many cities are also more vulnerable to climate change and natural disasters due to their high concentration of people and location so building urban resilience is crucial to avoid human, social and economic losses,” adds the UN.
Sustainable development cannot be achieved without significantly transforming the way urban spaces are built and managed. The UN said efforts must focus on implementing inclusive, resilient and sustainable urban development policies and practices that prioritize access to basic services, affordable housing, efficient transportation and green spaces for all.
The UN noted that up to 3 billion people worldwide struggle to afford a place to live, and 1.12 billion live in slums or informal settlements without basic services.
Creating safe, resilient and sustainable cities requires coordinated investments in affordable housing, climate-resilient infrastructure and inclusive governance.
New cities will hopefully address the urban blight. Metro Manila, including the capital city, needs a respite from the previous follies of urban planning.
President Marcos and Mayor Moreno are pushing the right buttons, so far.
E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com
BATTERY SWAP. Voltai co-founder and chief executive Fazlur Abdul Rahman; Voltai directors John Januszczak and Sandro Aboitiz; Private Express and Messengerial Association of the Philippines president Alma Rias; Cleanfuel Philippines Marketing head Kris Lim; Voltai co-founder and chief product officer Nico Policarpio; Voltai director Hardesh Singh; and Voltai president Carlos Aboitiz attend the launch of the Philippines’ first large-scale electric two-wheel battery swap ecosystem that is tailored to businesses operating vehicle fleets held at the Cleanfuel station in Pasig City.
RADISSON-LIME AGREEMENT. Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) signs an agreement with LIME Resort Bohol to open as a member of Radisson Individuals Premier. Signing the agreement are (from left) Ma. Lourdes Po; Emil Po, chief executive of Lime Hotels and Resorts; Ramzy Fenianos, chief development officer, Asia Pacific at Radisson Hotel Group; Christine Angela Sevilla, senior director, development, Southeast Asia Pacific at Radisson Hotel Group.
Yumul, who serves as director at Cordillera Exploration Co. Inc. and Newminco Pacific Mining Corp., said the country should no longer rely on imported definitions of “critical minerals” but instead identify those essential to its own industrial and energy needs.
TUnified toll collection system to provide seamless travel
HE country’s two largest tollway operators have committed to ensuring that the new unified toll collection system will provide motorists with seamless travel across Luzon.
The long-anticipated interoperability of expressways operated by SMC Infrastructure and Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. throughout Luzon is now complete, with both firms launching the One RFID program on Tuesday in Calamba, which was attended by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.
“We are proud to announce the successful completion of interoperability between our electronic toll collection (ETC) systems, Autosweep and Easytrip,” both companies said in a joint statement.
“This latest feature will directly benefit motorists who will register for a new ETC account, as they will only need one radio frequency identification (RFID) and account to travel seamlessly across the Luzon expressway network,” they said.
The One RFID program covers all toll roads in Luzon such as Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX), SubicClark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), NLEX Connector, Skyway System, NAIA Expressway, Manila-Cavite Expressway (Cavitex), MuntinlupaCavite Expressway (MCX), Cavite-
Laguna Expressway (CALAX), South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), and the STAR Tollway.
The average penetration rate of ETC transactions across all tollways is at 90 percent.
San Miguel Corp., which operates Skyway, South Luzon Expressway, STAR Tollway and NAIAx, uses AutoSweep RFID tag, while Metro Pacific Tollways Corp., which operates Manila Cavite Expressway, C5 Link Expressway and Cavite Laguna Expressway, uses EasyTrip RFID tag for electronic toll collection.
Registering for the One RFID program is optional. Motorists with existing, separate Autosweep and Easytrip RFIDs and accounts may choose to join the toll interoperability program, but those who choose to maintain two separate RFID accounts, may also do so, the companies said.
This project was initiated by government through the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), in line with their mandate to improve the efficiency of the country’s expressway network.
The private operators had been working closely with government
over the years, to make the vision of toll interoperability a reality.
“The road to One RFID was not easy, as it required extensive work on the part of all stakeholders. Both ETC providers made significant upgrades to their existing infrastructure to integrate their systems, while conducting rigorous testing to ensure smooth and seamless interoperability,” the firms said.
With the completion of the interoperability project, the expressway operators said their focus will now be on roll-out — making registration to the One RFID program more convenient and accessible — as well as continuous improvements to the system, to ensure overall better experience at the expressways for motorists.
“We express our gratitude to the leadership of the DOTR led by Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez and TRB Executive Director Jose Arturo M. Tugade for their steady hands in steering this project towards the finish line. Their valuable guidance helped us navigate the existing regulatory environment, which simplified settlement mechanisms, so that motorists can enjoy a smooth and secure experience,” the companies said.
The tollway operators expressed their continued committed to support government initiatives, invest in world-class systems and contribute towards a better Philippines for all.
Darwin G. Amojelar
2GO launches new Manila-Siargao route for enhanced accessibility
2GO Travel, the country’s largest premier sea travel provider, is launching a new Manila–Siargao route beginning November 10, 2025.
This significant addition aims to make one of the Philippines’ most beloved islands more accessible and affordable for both travelers and traders.
The weekly voyage will depart from Manila every Monday at 6:30 PM, arriving in Siargao on Tuesday at 11:30 PM. The return trip will depart Siargao every Wednesday at 2:30 AM and arrive in Manila on Friday at 7:30 AM.
By opening this route, 2GO answers the public’s call for more
AirAsia PH deploys ground equipment to cut CO2 emissions
AIRASIA Philippines is reinforcing its commitment to decarbonizing aviation by adopting Combo Units—combined air conditioning and ground power units—into its ground service equipment fleet. This move aims to significantly improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions at the airport.
The implementation of Combo Units in the Philippines marks a crucial step in localizing AirAsia Aviation Group’s regional push for lower-carbon operations. AirAsia Philippines is the second airline in the group to introduce this cuttingedge ground support technology at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport after a successful rollout in Malaysia.
The Combo Units provide aircraft on the ramp with sufficient electrical and air-cooling capabilities during pre-flight and transit. By reducing reliance on the aircraft’s auxiliary power unit (APU), the technology is expected to cut ground emissions by up to 90 percent under optimal use, all while maintaining a comfortable boarding experience for passengers. The measure also helps reduce air and noise pollution on the ramp, leading to better working conditions for baggage handlers and ground technicians.
The deployment of two Combo Units is expected to deliver an estimated 1,300 tonnes of CO₂ reduction each year.
“Our efforts to reduce emissions go hand in hand with improving the travel experience of our guests. The Combo Units not only lower our fuel consumption and carbon footprint but also ensure our guests remain comfortable while the aircraft is at the ramp, ready for their purposeful journey,” Capt. Suresh Bangah, chief executive of AirAsia Philippines said.
affordable and reliable travel options to Siargao while also creating a vital logistics bridge that supports the island’s economy. The route enables the more cost-efficient movement of essential goods such as food, fuel, and construction materials, benefiting local communities and small businesses.
The MV 2GO St. Francis Xavier, one of 2GO’s largest and most modern vessels, will serve the route. It can accommodate over 1,700 passengers, along with containerized and loose cargo, reefer vans, and other temperature-controlled shipments—underscoring 2GO’s commitment to both passenger
comfort and efficient cargo transport.
Designed for a complete sea travel experience, the vessel offers a 50KG luggage allowance per passenger, as well as a full suite of amenities including restaurants, a coffee shop, salon and spa, souvenir shop, karaoke rooms, an arcade, a medical clinic, and nightly live entertainment.
The voyage will also connect Siargao, Butuan, and Ozamis, expanding access across Northern Mindanao and opening new opportunities for tourism, trade, and regional mobility.
“With 2GO now sailing directly to Siargao, we’re not just expanding routes—we’re expanding
possibilities,” Francis Chua, 2GO Travel Business Unit head said.
“This voyage is for every Filipino who has long wanted to experience Siargao without breaking the bank. At the same time, it ensures that local businesses can transport goods and supplies more efficiently. We’re making travel and trade more inclusive, one voyage at a time,” he added. With the launch of the Manila–Siargao route, 2GO Travel continues to bridge people, products, and progress across the Philippines, reaffirming its mission to make sea travel accessible, affordable, and essential to nation-building.
PH EV sector charges ahead with more investments
THE Philippines remains on track to more sustainable mobility as the public and private sectors gear up to collaborate further and push for massive local adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).
Through the Electric Vehicle Development Act (EVIDA) that was enacted in 2022, the growth of the EV sector continues, and more investments come in from PHbased and international private companies.
NAIA emergency responders pass global test
RESPONDERS at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) reached a simulated aircraft crash site in under three minutes, meeting the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) standards for aircraft rescue and firefighting response.
The full-scale Crash Rescue Exercise (CREX) 2025 was conducted on October 17 by the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), the private consortium
Responders in action during the full-scale Crash Rescue Exercise (CREX) 2025 held at NAIA on October 17. The drill tested coordination and emergency response across airport units and partner agencies.
operating NAIA, to test coordination and emergency response across airport units and partner agencies.
It simulated an aircraft with 120 passengers and six crew that ingested foreign object debris (FOD) on the runway, causing engine damage, a fuel leak, and fire.
More than 600 participants joined the 51-minute exercise, which was supervised and evaluated by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines
(CAAP) and the Airline Operators Council (AOC). The simulation tested how responders communicated, coordinated, and took command under pressure, consistent with global aviation safety protocols.
NNIC’s Rescue and Firefighting Service, Medical Services, Operations, Security Group, and Aerodrome Safety and Wildlife Hazard Management Office led the operation, supported by the Manila International Airport Authority, the Philippine National Police, and Bureau of Fire Protection units from nearby cities.
Medical and disaster response teams from the Philippine Red Cross, Metro Manila Development Authority, and several hospitals participated, while Philippine Airlines activated its CARE team and Survivor Reception Area to assist in passenger management. The drill is the first large-scale emergency exercise under private management since NNIC took over NAIA’s operations in September 2024 as part of a public-private partnership with the government.
Earlier this month, the Board of Investments (BoI) announced a new exploration from a new Chinese delegation for the possibility of establishing new local facilities manufacturing EVs and renewable energy equipment. The investment promotion agency is yet to share more details about this deal but has the assurance that it is likely to push through.
At the same time, the Department of Energy (DOE) has hinted about receiving expressions of interest from still undisclosed private investors that aim to roll out a combined 4,000 EV charging stations (EVCS) nationwide in two to three years.
In June, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp announced its intention to infuse an additional P7 billion to the country in the next five years. The company said that this time, it will be heeding the government’s push for EVs and renewable energy. During the same month (June), the Department of Trade and Industry lobbied the new Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS), which when approved could generate up to P11.4 trillion in economic outputs and possibly create nearly 700,000 local jobs in EV assembly, battery production, EVCS installation, and maintenance services.
Even the Asian Development Bank has agreed to infuse $100 million (about P5.841 billion) into the local EV sector through a financing arrangement with the Ayala Corporation, which operates ACMobility, one of the current biggest distributors of EVs locally. In January, the partners announced that the funding is allocated for the procurement of EV charging stations and of more units for commercial distribution.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
LORIN Bektas up to her mom, Ruffa Gutierrez Truly, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
But while many expected Lorin to follow in her mother’s footsteps in show business and pageantry, she says she has no such plans.
In an email interview with Manila Standard Entertainment, the 22-year-old daughter of Ruffa said that although she admires her mother’s achievements, she prefers to carve out her own path.
“I’ve always admired my mom and everything she’s achieved, but I’d rather create something that’s uniquely mine,” she said.
“She’ll always be the pageant queen of the family, and I’m proud of that. I want to explore my own passions and create something that’s uniquely mine, while still carrying the lessons and values she’s instilled in me.”
Raised by Ruffa as a single mother after her split with Turkish businessman Yilmaz Bektas, Lorin learned early the value of independence and hard work.
SHOWBIZ
Lorin Bektas skips pageantry to forge her own path
Very Wang
“She’s always been an example of a woman who doesn’t rely on anyone but herself. Watching her made me want to be strong too,” she shared.
While pageants are not part of her plans, Lorin continues to embody the lessons her mother taught her, to be confident, disciplined, and always grateful.
“Everything I am now, it’s because of my mom,” she said. “She taught us to stay grounded despite our family’s prominence.”
Now a student and social media personality, Lorin hopes to build a meaningful creative career. With her interest in business and marketing, she
By Angelica Villanueva
Nickie Wang
aspires to represent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands as a global voice for her generation.
Having lived both in the Philippines and abroad, Lorin believes those experiences shaped her personality and outlook.
“Living both in the Philippines and abroad has made me more open-minded and adaptable,” she said. “It gave me a broader, more cultured perspective on life and helped me appreciate different people and ways of thinking.”
Recently, Lorin became the newest face of beauty and wellness brand Brilliant Skin, founded by entrepreneur Glenda Dela Cruz
ACTRESS Klea Pineda has denied rumors that she and Janella Salvador got matching tattoos after a photo of them at a tattoo shop recently went viral online.
On Tuesday, Oct. 21, Klea confirmed that she and Janella did visit a tattoo studio but clarified that they did not get a “couple tattoo.”
“Hindi ko nga alam kung bakit kailangan pa kumalat ‘yung ganung klaseng photo
Pero yes, galing kaming tattoo shop. Hindi siya couple tattoo,” Klea said.
The Open Endings star added that both she and Janella wanted to keep their tattoos private.
Ayaw kong ipakita kung ano man ‘yung tattoo na nakuha ko at kung ano man ‘yung tattoo na pinagawa niya,” she explained. Klea and Janella reportedly became close while working together on the queer romance film Open Endings, which premiered at Cinemalaya in August and is now part of QCinema’s 2025 lineup.
Asked about her current relationship status, Klea said she wants to protect her personal life.
Kung ano man ‘yung nakikita niyo sa social media, ‘yun na ‘yon. Hindi namin utang na loob sa mga tao na ipaliwanag kung anong meron,” she stated.
GMA Network is bringing back the Kapuso Bigtime Panalo promo this October, offering nearly P7 million in prizes, including four P1 million jackpots. Now on its fourth season, the nationwide promo began on Oct. 18 and is open to shoppers and sari-sari store owners across the country. Participants can join by buying, submitting, and winning through the promo’s steps: “Bumili, Ipadala, Manalo.”
Four grand prize winners will each receive P1 million, while three others will get P50,000 worth of Pangkabuhayan packages from Puregold. Daily prizes of P1,000 and weekly prizes of P7,500 and P50,000 are also up for grabs. Participants must purchase any of the participating products—Aji-Ginisa Flavor Seasoning Mix, Bear Brand Fortified
Powdered Milk Drink, Nescafé, or Nestea Iced Tea—and include their name, age, address, contact number, and signature on a piece of paper with the proof of purchase. Entries can be dropped off at more than 700 collection points, including Mercury Drug branches, Puregold outlets, and GMA Network TV and radio stations. Winners will be announced weekly via Facebook Live on the official GMA Promos page, with the list also posted on facebook.com/GMAPromos and gmanetwork.com/GMAPromos. The Clash 2025 grand champion Jong Madaliday performs the promo’s official jingle.
Kapuso Bigtime Panalo Season 4 runs until Dec. 26. Full mechanics are available on www.gmanetwork.com/GMAPromos.
Klea Pineda (right) clarifies that she and Janella Salvador did not get matching tattoos
Lorin Bektas enjoys a sunny day at the beach in Malibu, California
Lorin Bektas, Ruffa Gutierrez, and Venice Bektas share a close bond built on family and independence
Lorin Bektas is introduced as the newest face of beauty and wellness brand Brilliant Skin
SHOWBIZ
Gabay Guro honors teachers in musical spectacle featuring
By Nickie Wang
GABAY Guro continues its 18year tradition of honoring Filipino educators with the Grand Gathering 2025, set for Oct. 25 at the Meralco Theatre. The annual event recognizes teachers’ dedication, resilience, and role in shaping the nation’s future.
This year’s theme, “Our Teachers: Heroes of Learning, Builders of Tomorrow,” follows a series of Teacher’s Fests in Ilocos Norte, Koronadal, Biñan, and Dumaguete, and the
National Teachers’ Day celebration at the Mall of Asia Arena on Oct. 6, in partnership with the Department of Education.
Under the leadership of Chaye CabalRevilla, chairperson of Gabay Guro and CEO of mWell, the organization has continued programs supporting educators, including scholarships, livelihood initiatives, digital training, and community projects.
“This year’s Grand Gathering is more than a show—it’s a love letter to our teachers,” Cabal-Revilla said. “Through music, laughter, and celebration, we want them to feel how deeply the nation values their sacrifice and passion.”
The event will feature performances by OPM artists Jed Madela, Jona, Erik Santos, Poppert Bernadas, Jamie Rivera, Precious Paula Nicole, and Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, who will headline the concert. The program also includes pre-show acts by Vibe Hosts and the TML Crew, and a performance by Teacher Georcelle and
THE arrival of more than eighty delegates for Miss Earth 2025, celebrating its Silver Anniversary Edition, began on Monday, including debuting Miss Earth Uzbekistan. The 25th edition will hold its grand coronation at Okada Manila in Parañaque on Nov. 5. The “Silver Lining” themed edition kicked off with the Miss Earth 2024 Queens’ media conference, presented by Carousel Productions and Reign Project Management, with reigning Miss Earth 2024 Jessica Lane, Miss EarthWater 2024 Bea Windorski, and Miss EarthAir 2024 Hrafnhildur Haraldsdóttir. The event was hosted by Miss Philippines Earth 2025 Joy Barcoma. Miss Earth 2004 Priscilla Meirelles also graced the occasion. Miss Earth 2025 launched its “Green Leaders in Action, From Awareness to Action” campaign, a project management and
G-Force MJ Lastimosa and Dylan Menor will host the celebration.
Teachers attending the event can also win cash prizes of up to P1 million, gift certificates, Cignal entertainment packages, and a grand prize Cherry Tiggo Touring. Entrance is free, with pre-registration encouraged through local DepEd divisions. The celebration will also be livestreamed on Gabay Guro’s Facebook and YouTube channels.
Gabay Guro, backed by PLDT-Smart Foundation and Metro Pacific Investments Corporation in partnership with PLDT Home, Smart, PLDT Managers’ Club, mWell, and DepEd, has spent nearly two decades empowering educators nationwide. Its programs include scholarships, livelihood support, housing assistance, and digital training for teachers and communities.
For more information on Gabay Guro Grand Gathering 2025, visit the organization’s official website and social media channels.
environmental capability training where delegates empower changemakers to go beyond the crown and create real-world impact.
The project is in partnership with PinnaclePro Learning, spearheading an intensive, transformative capability training on Project Management, Elevator Pitching, and Global and Regional Environmental Frameworks. The program aims to empower delegates to become effective advocates for environmental sustainability and to lead, pitch, and manage projects that create real environmental impact.
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Annabelle McDonnell finishes in Top 11 in Miss Globe 2025
MEANWHILE, Annabelle Mae McDonnell ended her journey in Miss Globe 2025 with a Top 11 placement during the finals held at the Palace of Congresses in Tirana, Albania. McDonnell topped the Head-to-Head Challenge, which secured her a spot in the Top
Sundance film festival sets tributes to late co-founder Redford
THE upcoming Sundance film festival will feature multiple tributes to its late co-founder Robert Redford, including a screening of his first independent movie, organizers said Tuesday.
Hollywood legend Redford, who starred in hits like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid before becoming an Oscar-winning director, died last month at the age of 89.
Redford’s passing caused an outpouring of grief from the US filmmaking community, many of whose leading lights got their start at the indie movie festival he created, including Quentin Tarantino and Steven Soderbergh
“Robert Redford’s dedication to the power of storytelling shaped independent cinema,” said a festival statement.
“In honor of his memory, a commemorative screening of Downhill Racer (released in 1969) will be presented, his first independent film and a passion project that was his catalyst for the creation of Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival,” it said.
Starring Redford as an obsessive skier competing in the Winter Olympics, Downhill Racer was described by critic Roger Ebert as “the best movie ever made about sports—without really being about sports at all.”
In his first significant venture behind the camera, Redford pitched and developed the film, though he did not receive a formal producer credit.
Multiple other celebratory events for Redford will be held throughout the festival, which starts Jan. 22. It will be the final Sundance held in Utah, before the festival—having outgrown its base in the ski resort of Park City—moves to Boulder in neighboring Colorado. A screening series of “legacy films” that first premiered at the festival, including the Oscar-winning Little Miss Sunshine and horror sensation Saw, will be attended by their directors and cast.
The festival’s lineup of new feature films and documentary premieres will be announced in the coming weeks, with tickets on sale from Wednesday. AFP
11, but she did not advance to the Top 5 finalists. “No crown can measure the pride you’ve given the Philippines. Annabelle Mae McDonnell’s journey at Miss Globe 2025 has been nothing short of inspiring. Thank you for representing the country with so much grace and heart,” the Bb. Pilipinas organization said on Facebook.
Chayathanus Saradatta claimed the Miss Globe 2025 crown, becoming the first winner from Thailand, while Valentina Gegprifti of Albania was named first runner-up. The USA’s Samantha Sarelli, Belgium’s Jolien Pede, and Cuba’s Jennifer Chang placed second, third, and fourth runners-up, respectively.
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Philippine bet named 1st runner-up in Miss Teen Eco Int’l 2025
PAULA Vitug narrowly missed the crown at Miss Teen Eco International 2025, finishing as first runner-up during the finals held at Hilton King’s Ranch in Alexandria, Egypt. Itzel Huerta of Venezuela won the title, succeeding Miss Teen Eco International 2024 Cece Wu Vitug also received the Best Resort Wear special award and won Miss People’s Choice, which earned her a spot in the Top 10.
Miss Eco Teen International aims to choose the best teen queen to be the voice of every teenager facing insecurities and issues while promoting care for the planet.
The Sundance Film Festival will pay tribute to its late co-founder Robert Redford, who helped shape modern independent cinema
Gabay Guro chairperson Chaye Cabal-Revilla (center) leads the Grand Gathering 2025 press conference alongside volunteer (from left) Gary Dujali and OPM artists Poppert Bernadas, Jona, and Jed Madela
From left: Reigning Miss Earth queens Bea Windorski, Jessica Lane, and Hrafnhildur Haraldsdóttir headline the media conference launching the 25th anniversary of Miss Earth
2025
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2025
Editor
NICKIE WANG,
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,
JASPER VALDEZ,
Writer
Writer
By Nickie Wang
GAMING
shaped
Suzzane Ezra
Gubatan’s life. It connected her with her family, introduced her to her husband, and led her to become the CEO of one of Asia’s leading gaming agencies.
Now 30, she is the CEO of Rumble Royale, a creative agency that works with some of Asia’s top gaming brands on content, events, and production. Despite her busy schedule as a wife, mother of two, and business leader, Suzzysaur (her online moniker) continues to create online content that mirrors her journey from gamer to entrepreneur.
Her streaming career began in high school in 2013.
“Back then, I was just a schoolgirl trying to find a way to help my family financially. I never imagined it would become a career,” she said.
From family pastime to profession
“My dad was the original gamer. He played PC games like Resident Evil,” she recalled. Soon, she and her siblings joined in, spending hours together on League of Legends. “That’s how our bond as a family really formed.”
During a League of Legends tournament in Los Angeles, she met her future husband, professional gamer Eric Allen “Exosen” Gubatan, while representing the Philippines as an influencer.
“We clicked right away,” she said. The couple now lives in Quezon City with their two daughters. Their home doubles as both a family space and a gaming hub. Suzzane manages Rumble Royale, while Exosen coaches esports players. Their children also stream educational content. Suzzane credits their reliable internet connection for keeping both her business and family connected.
“PLDT Home Fiber is the key to keeping everything running smoothly,” she said. Their home even served as a backup training base for her husband’s professional gaming team. “Five or six players would train here, and even with all that going on, my uploads stayed smooth. That’s
Gamer and CEO Suzzane
‘Suzzysaur’ Gubatan credits PLDT Home Fiber for supporting her journey as a streamer, entrepreneur, and mother
How Suzzysaur’s success inspires us all
She added that her entire family shares the same passion. “My dad still plays mobile games when he visits, my sisters are into Valorant , and my husband and I have our own setups in separate rooms because we both have meetings and streams. I’ve tried other providers, but PLDT Home is the most reliable. As a content creator and mom, that kind of support matters.”
Balancing gaming and motherhood
Motherhood has not slowed her down— instead, it has reshaped her perspective and content.
“There’s no perfect balance,” she said. “Some days I lead meetings with my toddler on my lap. Other days, I’m streaming with no sleep. But this is the life I chose, and I love it.”
Her content has evolved alongside her audience, many of whom now have families of their own. She began sharing more glimpses of her daily life—the humor, chaos, and warmth
In perfect harmony
How
a CEO’s single act of kindness catalyzed another CEO’s success
SOMETIMES, a single act of kindness
is all it takes to create a lifetime of beautiful music.
That is what happened when Golden Arches Development Corporation chairman and founder Dr. George T. Yang decided, more than a decade ago, to establish the Klassikal Music Foundation (KMF), a scholarship program designed to support talented but financially challenged classical musicians in the Philippines. What began as a personal mission to “give back” for the man who brought American fast food chain McDonald’s to the Philippines has now created a ripple effect that continues to inspire the country’s next generation of performers. Through KMF, George has supported around 60 scholars per batch. One of these talented students is now among the most successful and respected names in the local music scene: Jade Riccio, CEO and founder of RMA Studio Academy. With the aid of George’s scholarship, Jade was able to enroll in the classical music program of the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music, win singing
competitions, and eventually graduate cum laude Long overdue reunion
When Jade and George reunited after several years apart for this interview, it was a heartwarming full-circle moment I was blessed to witness. Inside George’s lovely home in an exclusive village, Jade and her crew from RMA Studio Academy set up for an intimate interview.
The purpose was meaningful—the shoot was part of Jade’s upcoming recital, a celebration of her academy’s milestones and the grand showcase of her students’ training. Seeing George and Jade reunite was like seeing a father meeting his daughter again after so many years. What once started as a young singer’s dream has now become a thriving educational institution specializing in music. The RMA Studio Academy trains close to a hundred celebrities among its students. The list includes popular artists like Maymay Entrata, Michelle Dee, Belle Mariano, Kai Montinola, Rhian Ramos, Max Collins, and celebrity kids like Zia
and
Tali Sotto
that come with motherhood. Her four-year-old daughter uses gamified learning apps and has become expressive and curious at a young age.
Beyond gaming, Suzzane extends her compassion to others through small acts of kindness, including donating breast milk to infants whose mothers did not survive childbirth.
Leading with heart
At Rumble Royale, Suzzane continues to foster a sense of community. “We started as a group of people playing together. Now it’s a full agency offering event production, talent management, and content creation,” she said. “But at its core, it’s still about creating safe, joyful spaces for gamers.”
For Suzzane, success is not measured by viral content. “Success is being able to wake up and do what I love while being present for my kids. It’s connecting with people who want to feel seen, inspired, or entertained. That’s enough for me.”
For George, seeing Jade’s success was emotional. “The main reason I went into this is to promote classical music because I want to give back,” he shared. “I learned something new when I was already growing old. I was 60 when I discovered that I could sing and that I could learn classical music.”
Discovering music at 60
George’s story alone is beautiful. At a time when most people were preparing for retirement, he found a new passion at 60 years old. He didn’t have a formal background in music, but he had the heart and determination to learn and, more importantly, to share what he learned with others.
He soon realized, however, that helping promote classical music in the Philippines was not easy. “One of the challenges was how expensive it is to support a musical scholarship,” he admitted. But he did it anyway. And through his success and generosity, he created opportunities for many aspiring artists, including Jade.
“I thought she’s got it all,” George said fondly of his former scholar. “Pretty girl, beautiful voice, and she’s very courageous. She’s willing to sing any song. She even dances while singing! I knew this girl would go somewhere.”
A teacher’s lesson on gratitude
During their reunion, Jade was
She also hopes to inspire the next generation of female gamers. “You don’t have to be toxic to be competitive. You don’t have to curse or be loud to be relevant. There’s space for kindness in gaming. There’s space for women, moms, and every kind of player.”
Affordable connection for creators
For families and aspiring creators seeking a reliable connection, PLDT Home now offers Fiber Prepaid — a prepaid fiber internet plan that gives users control over their digital usage without contracts or paperwork.
For a one-time payment of P999, subscribers get 30 days of unlimited fiber internet and can reload as needed.
Gubatan’s advice for aspiring streamers: “Commit to your journey and allow yourself to evolve. Not every day will be smooth, but every season has something to teach you.”
To learn more about PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid, visit www.pldthome.com/fiberprepaid.
visibly emotional. “If I didn’t meet Sir George,” she said, “there would be no interview right now.”
She recalled how much the foundation and the people behind it meant to her. “With the backup of my family, with the help of Sir George, and actually the team behind him, they’ve helped me so much. Ate Joann (George’s assistant) has been there for me ever since the very beginning.”
Every corner of George’s home was filled with memories for Jade. “This is where we used to perform,” Jade showed me, smiling as she looked around. “During the parties back then, the scholars would sing here and take part in special events. To be back now, it’s very nostalgic.”
What’s even more inspiring is how Jade’s story came full circle. Many of her academy’s coaches are her former co-scholars, proof that George’s initial act of kindness continues to spill over to generations of musicians. Today, she’s known as the coach to the stars and the children of stars, nurturing voices that now fill music videos and concert stages. Random lessons from a reunion
Witnessing their reunion, it is impossible not to reflect on my personal takeaways.
First, it reminds us that it’s never too late to learn something new. George discovered classical singing at 60. And if he could do that without any musical background, then perhaps there’s no excuse for any of us not to try something new, whether it’s painting,
driving, or even starting a new business.
Second, their story proves that kindness has a ripple effect. An act of generosity can transform countless lives. If George had not extended his hand to support talented young artists, there would be no RMA Studio Academy today, an institution that now empowers dozens of dreamers to find their own voices.
Third, it’s a display of the power of gratitude. Jade’s success did not make her forget her roots. She looked back, gave thanks, and continues to pay it forward by teaching others. In an industry often driven by fame, her humility in acknowledging where she started is a gift.
Lastly, I learned the value of being intentional. George is a passionate person, and passion shows in the details. Before our interview, he proudly showed me his coat, one that was beautifully embroidered with a musical instrument design. His eyes disappeared into a happy smile as he presented it. Even in his late 80s, he remains sharp, brilliant, and deeply engaged during the interview. Every word, gesture, and memory reflects a man who gives his full heart to what he loves.
Hitting the key of K (Kindness) At its core, this story is about spreading art through the heart. It’s about the courage to begin again, the grace to give back, and the gratitude to acknowledge those who helped us along the way.
As Jade helps shape the country’s musical future, and as George continues to inspire us through his quiet philanthropy, their story reminds us of one truth—music is the universal language of kindness as it is of love. When you do something out of love and kindness, whether it is sharing a song, mentoring a student, or funding a dream, there is a guarantee that you are always in harmony with the rhythm of the world.
And while businessmen have this image of simply chasing after gains, here’s one who shows us that giving could also mean serious business. Watch out for the full interview of George Yang and Jade Riccio on Random Republika’s YouTube channel soon. Catch RMA Studio Academy’s concert That’s Amore!
Dantes, Renzo Jaworski,
Random Talk Kate Adajar
Klassikal Music Foundation helped launch Jade’s music career
Dr. George T. Yang (left), RMA Studio Academy CEO Jade Riccio (right), and the author (center) pose for photos
