By Rio N. Araja, Pot Chavez, Katrina Manubay and Rex Espiritu
BICOL Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon yesterday called the forgery of the affidavit of Senate witness Orly Regala Guteza “a damning exposure
of a coordinated political operation built entirely on lies and fabricated evidence.”
“This ruling is a decisive vindication of fact over fiction. It reveals how falsehoods were deliberately engineered to mislead official inquiries
• Sotto urges prudence in filing of cases
• 2 senators deny getting kickbacks
By Rio Araja, Joel Zurbano, Ram Superable and Katrina Manubay
THE Independent Commission for Infrastructure on Wednesday recommended the filing of criminal and administrative complaints against Senators Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada, resigned Ako Bicol partylist representative Zaldy Co, and three others before the Office of the Ombudsman over their possible involvement in allegedly anomalous flood control projects.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, for his part, confirmed that around 15 public officials will face graft charges before the Sandiganbayan over the flood infra mess either before or on November 25. Remulla said among the 15 public officials who will be charged are those linked to flood control projects in the provinces of Bulacan and Mindoro.
By Pot Chavez
“The target is really by November 25. We will have cases in the Sandiganbayan already,” he said.
The ICI, in its interim report, also recommended the filing of charges against Commission on Audit Commissioner Mario Lipana, former Caloocan City Rep. Mitzi CajayonUy, and former Department of Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo.
PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed his commitment to charting a path toward inclusivity and sustainability to help build a “future-
proof” Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). In a video message upon his return to Manila yesterday, Marcos affirmed
Navy triples WPS patrols to bolster defense
By Katrina Manubay
THE Philippines has tripled
and
quarter, amid heightened tensions in the WPS. During the council’s third-quarter press briefing, NMC spokesman Undersecretary Alexander Lopez said the expanded patrol operations form part of a
and
ACCUSED. Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) Chairperson Andres Reyes, along with volunteer lawyers, file their recommendation with the Ombudsman to file charges against Senators Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada, former Ako Bicol Party-list representative Zaldy Co, former Caloocan 2nd District representative Mitch Cajayon-Uy and COA Commissioner Mario Lipana for their alleged involvement in anomalous flood control projects.
its investigation into anomalous flood control projects.
the Philippines’ readiness to host the ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in 2026, with the theme, “Navigate our Future, Together.”
By Katrina Manubay and Ram Superable
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed Republic Act (RA) No. 12312, or the Anti-POGO Act of 2025, officially banning Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in the country. Signed on October 23, the law
repeals RA No. 11590, which had previously imposed taxes on offshore gaming firms linked to various illegal activities, including human trafficking, kidnapping, and online scams.
“To this end, offshore gaming operations in the Philippines are hereby banned and declared unlawful,” the law read.
Sen. Jinggoy Estrada Sen. Joel Villanueva Cong. Zaldy Co
Former Cong. Mitch Cajayon-Uy
COA Comm. Mario Lipana Ex-Usec. Roberto Bernardo
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2025
‘27 contractors donated to pols from 2010-25’
THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday released the names of 27 contractors who have contracts with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) from 2010 to 2025.
The list was contained in a certification issued on Oct. 14 but made public by Comelec Chairperson George Garcia on Oct. 29. Garcia said he has directed the Comelec's Political Finance and Affairs Department (PFAD) to start the investigation on the 27 contractors.
ICI:...
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"These persons have possibly committed these following violations: direct or indirect bribery and corruption of public officials, corruption of public officers, and plunder," the ICI said in its report.
“With this filing, we remain true to our commitment to the Filipino people. No one will be spared in the fight against corruption. Politicians or government officials will be investigated and charged by credible evidence. Those found responsible will face the consequences and be held accountable under the rule of law. Justice will not be delayed this time. This is our promise to our countrymen,” ICI chairperson Andres Reyes said.
Remulla said those implicated in
‘More...
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“There were some additions [to state witness applicants], we are considering them, and we will see where they can serve as state witnesses. The Department’s position is that we cannot give blanket immunity,” he said in Filipino during a press briefing.
The head of the DOJ’s National Prosecution Service noted that his office is in discussions with potential state witnesses to determine
PBBM...
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Meanwhile, Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Risa Hontiveros on Wednesday hailed the enactment of the Anti-POGO Act of 2025, describing it as a decisive move to permanently end the operations of offshore gaming firms and their criminal networks in the Philippines.
"I am elated by the enactment of this measure as the POGOs have brought nothing but a surge in criminalities that include kidnapping, human trafficking, and prostitution, among others," said Gatchalian.
"This isn’t just an economic issue but a moral imperative,” he added.
Marcos...
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“The leaders and I spoke about futureproofing our region through economic cooperation and sustainable growth,” Marcos said after his participation in the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
“As the 2026 Chair of ASEAN, the Philippines looks forward to building on the gains of Malaysia's inclusivity and sustainability theme and carry ASEAN forward as we, as is our theme, ‘Navigate our Future, Together,’” he added.
Marcos said this year’s ASEAN summit served as a platform for Southeast Asian leaders to discuss geopolitical and economic challenges and explore ways to steer the regional bloc’s future as they address the issues “domestically, bilaterally, regionally, and globally.”
He said pressing issues such as the recent incidents in the West Philippine Sea and the current situation of Myanmar were raised during the summit.
He also described Timor-Leste’s full accession as the 11th member of
Navy...
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(BFAR) to strengthen coordination and ensure sustained presence in the country’s maritime zones.
“They were found to have given donations to the candidates. Just to start the process with them. After they answer, we will make the candidates who were given by the 27 contractors to answer. The 26 are not government contractors. Therefore, they are not subject to Sec-
the alleged anomalies endorsed by the ICI will be subjected to a preliminary investigation.
The ICI complaints were anchored on the sworn affidavits and corroborating evidence of dismissed DPWH Bulacan engineers Henry Alcantara, Brice Ericson Hernandez, and Jaypee Mendoza.
Hernandez, in a Senate inquiry, accused Villanueva and Estrada of receiving kickbacks from him. Both senators denied the allegations leveled against them.
The ICI said it believes there was a systematic kickback scheme wherein lawmakers acted as project proponents and even inserted funds for flood control projects into the General Appropriations Bill and General Appropriations Act in exchange for commissions ranging from 20 percent to 30 percent of project costs.
if their statements are useful in advancing the government’s case against those behind the infrastructure scandal.
Fadullon, however, did not name the latest applicants, only saying “safe to say that they are from the DPWH [Department of Public Works and Highways].”
Earlier, the Office of the Ombudsman noted that former Bulacan 1st district assistant engineer Brice Hernandez is no longer bent on becoming a state witness and has since turned into
Estimates from the Department of Finance (DOF) showed that the POGOs’ estimated total economic benefits only amounted to PHP 166.49 billion per year, significantly lower than the estimated total economic costs of PHP 265.74 billion annually.
The economic benefits took into account government revenues, such as tax revenues from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BlR) as well as Gross Gaming Revenues from the PAGCOR. Other estimated direct economic benefits include estimated income from office and residential space rentals, transportation, and the additional demand from the private consumption of employees and entities.
Indirect economic benefits were
the regional bloc as a “historic step that reaffirms ASEAN's commitment to unity and inclusivity.”
“We remain committed to pursuing initiatives that will support TimorLeste's capacity to assume its obligations as a full member of ASEAN, with the end goal of further building a people-centered ASEAN,” he said.
Marcos noted that upgrades in the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement, amendments to Free Trade Agreements, and utilization of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership will enhance transparency, stability, and predictability, boosting business confidence and sustaining ASEAN’s role as a driver of regional and global growth.
He reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening partnerships with countries that share values and our commitment to peace, stability, and economic progress.
“This economic development goes hand in hand with strengthening the social-cultural community. We discussed the progress achieved and the actions moving forward for the environment, climate change, education, green jobs, and health,” he said.
tion 95 (c) of the Omnibus Election Code. By being public works contractors, 26 out of 54 are not government public works contractors,” the poll body chief added.
Asked on how many poll candidates have benefitted from the 27 contractors, Garcia said, “We'll verify it with the PFAD... but once we've issued the show cause orders, we'll let the public know who they gave donations to."
Based on the data from the Comelec’s Civil Works Application of the Procurement Service,
The commission, however, emphasized its interim report does not make categorical findings of guilt and that the determination of liability rests with the proper authorities.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III, for his part, urged caution and adherence to due process following the recommendation of the ICI to file criminal charges against several lawmakers, including Senators Villanueva and Estrada.
Sotto said the Senate must avoid premature judgment and respect the rule of law.
“There are constitutional, legal and political issues to these investigations. And there will be as many opinions as there are lawyers. I would rather be prudent and follow the rule of law and avoid putting the Senate in the line of fire,” he said.
Estrada also on Wednesday rejected
a “cooperative witness.”
Conversely, the Ombudsman said contractor couple, Pacifico “Curlee” and Sarah Discaya, have “zero chance” of becoming state witnesses because of their pivotal roles in the flood control scam, and because they are "leaning to be hostile witnesses."
However, Fadullon said that despite the Ombudsman’s assessment of the Discayas, they remain candidates for the government’s Witness Protection Program.
The country’s top prosecutor ex-
also taken into consideration, which comprised the associated economic activities as well as government revenues earned from POGOs’ multiplier effects, the DOF said.
On the other hand, the estimated economic costs of POGOs include the undesired effects of reputational risks which have an impact on foreign direct investments. POGO-related crimes also bring a negative impact in terms of the country’s attractiveness as a tourist destination. Apart from these, POGOs entail social costs, which are unquantifiable. This includes the loss of life as well as physical and psychological harm to victims of criminal activities. POGO operations also affect communities by
Guteza’s...
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and poison public discourse,” he said, referring to the decision of the Manila City Regional Trial Court that Guteza’s statement was falsified.
Ridon, the House infrastructure committee’s co-chairperson, urged the Department of Justice to immediately implement the court’s directive and prosecute all those responsible for this calculated falsification.
“This was no clerical mistake. It was a premeditated attempt to subvert truth and derail a Senate inquiry. The DOJ must act decisively so that political forgery never again finds refuge in impunity,” he said.
The court’s decision has restored integrity to institutional processes and vindicates those who had been unjustly maligned, the lawmaker added.
Former congressman Mike Defensor, however, described the forgery of Guteza’s affidavit as “immaterial.”
“The notarial service is only to
included on the list are Yunakim Construction, A.I.P Construction, Centerways Construction and Development Inc., 11-16 Construction, Prismodial Construction and Development Corporation, Makiling Construction Ventures Corp., Viking Construction and Supplies, DND Construction and Development, Octagon Concrete Solutions Inc., Jozen Builders and Construction Supply Corporation and Aqualine Construction Corporation. The others are R8 Asphalt Plant and Construction Inc., EZJONES
the accusations against him, calling the testimonies “hearsay” and vowing to defend himself in court.
"I did not receive any funds intended for flood control projects, and I can prove this in court. The allegations against me are all hearsay or based merely on rumors," Estrada said.
"I am ready to defend myself and go through any legal process to prove that I am telling the truth," he added. Villanueva also denied involvement in the flood control mess, saying he has consistently opposed flood control projects and even questioned their implementation in the past.
“Records of the Senate will show that I have been against flood control projects from the very beginning. I was the one who exposed and questioned these flood control projects that have not been implemented," Villanueva said.
plained that he "cannot ascertain yet whether there is hostility” until he hears what the couple has to say.
On Monday, Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano stated the Discayas had "absolutely no chance" of becoming state witnesses due to their "uncooperative behavior."
"They are leaning to be hostile witnesses and can only be charged as respondents in the future, accused in the case of malversation of public funds, of falsification of public documents, and all the other crimes they were a part of," he pointed out.
increasing fear and anxiety associated with illegal activities, according to the DOF. Under the law, all forms of offshore gaming are prohibited, including operating, providing services to, or accepting bets for POGO activities.
The ban also covers the establishment of POGO hubs or sites and the use or possession of gaming equipment and paraphernalia.
The law further penalizes anyone aiding or concealing such operations, including those registering companies concealing POGO hubs, issuing fake documents, leasing properties or vehicles for illegal gaming use, or facilitating the movement of individuals involved in these prohibited activities.
make it a public document; he presented it already publicly and before the Blue Ribbon Committee. Substance ni Guteza is what is important,” said Defensor, who introduced Guteza to Senator Rodante Marcoleta.
“They are diverting the story towards the notary [falsification],” he insisted.
For its part, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said it is waiting for an invitation from the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to present its findings on the alleged forgery of a lawyer’s signature in Guteza’s affidavit.
NBI Officer-in-Charge Angelito Magno stated that the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 18 had earlier directed the bureau to examine the document after lawyer Petchie Rose Espera denied notarizing or signing the affidavit.
“If the signature was truly forged, then this will be a case of falsification of a public document because he presented it during a Senate hearing, allegedly notarized, he explained in Filipino.
Construction Inc., JELM Construction, MWJ Construction, DR Construction and Supply, Viguz Construction Corporation, Everbuilt Construction, G.O.C. Builders, PAF Construction and Supply Inc., A.L. Salazar Construction Inc., E.F. Chua Construction Inc., D.G. Chico Trading and Construction, Gateway 21-25 Construction Corp.,Tagum Builders Contractors Corp., and GP & H Construction Inc. He clarified that the issuance of show cause orders does not mean that these individuals are guilty.
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arising from infrastructure projects,” the High Court said.
Earlier, Akbayan party-list Rep. Chel Diokno urged the Supreme Court to designate special courts and set time limits for flood control corruption cases.
He said no corruption trial should last longer than three years maximum and no appeal should take longer than two years, noting that prolonged trials tend to favor the accused.
“Corruption cases deserve the highest priority because the victims of corruption are all of us—the people—ordinary citizens whose taxes should go to improving their quality of life, not fattening the wallets of those entrusted with government authority,” Diokno said.
“When the trial of a corruption case takes a decade or more, witnesses are vulnerable: their memories can fade, they can easily lose interest in testifying because it seems there is no progress in the case; and they may no longer be available to testify because they have to work abroad, get sick, or die of natural or unnatural causes,” he added.
On Tuesday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appealed for patience from the public amid mounting criticism over the perceived slow progress in the administration’s anti-corruption campaign, saying that rushing cases could jeopardize the country’s pursuit of justice.
"We have to remind people that we have now moved from the political arena to the legal one," the President said.
"Do you want to get it done quickly or do you want to get it done right? That’s the choice that we have," he added.
The President said he understands the public’s frustration, but cautioned against pressure to make arrests or file charges without sufficient evidence. He warned that weak cases could lead to acquittals on technical grounds, allowing corrupt officials to walk free.
"Can you imagine these people who have stolen billions from the government and from the people getting away because the evidence was not properly handled? That would be a much worse result,” he said.
PNP...
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travelers for the traditional observance of the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
Meanwhile, the weather agency predicted it would be a rainy Undas celebration on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2 in several parts of the country.
Nartatez said the soft deployment allows police units to gradually position their personnel and resources on the ground to address traffic build-up, maintain order, and assist the public even before the peak travel period begins.
“With our assets deployed, we were able to cover three times more of the West Philippine Sea because of the vessels and aircraft we deployed. We have covered the West Philippine Sea quite abundantly,” Lopez said. He said the expanded coverage reflected President Marcos’ policy of “enhanced transparency” in the WPS.
Lopez said the NMC’s Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) operations over the past quarter included 224 surface operations, 43 air patrols, and 56 intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) activities. Thirty vessels were deployed for surface operations, including eight
from the AFP, eight from the PCG, and 14 from BFAR. They logged a total time at sea of 9,784 hours and covered more than 77,006 nautical miles. For air patrols, the government deployed five aircraft, including two from the AFP, one from the PCG, and two from BFAR, totalling 245 flight hours. Lopez noted that ISR operations strengthened the Philippines’ strategic presence in the region.
As part of continuing surveillance,
the PCG conducted an MDA flight on Tuesday morning over the waters near Bajo de Masinloc in the WPS. According to a survey by the OCTA Research Group, about 75 percent of the people gave a thumbs up approval of the PCG’s performance at the WPS.
The poll, dubbed Tugon ng Masa, also showed that only four percent expressed dissatisfaction with the PCG’s performance.
Nartatez increased the deployment of police personnel to around 50,000 to guarantee a safe, peaceful, and orderly nationwide observance of Undas. This is more than the 32,000 police personnel deployed in 2024. The policemen will be supported by 16,592 soldiers and elements of the Philippine Coast Guard, along with 45,712 “force multipliers.” Vince Lopez and Rio N. Araja SC...
“We have started our soft deployment of police personnel nationwide to ensure that our presence is already felt as early as now. This proactive measure aims to ensure smoother coordination and preparedness before the expected influx of travelers later this week,” Nartatez explained. The PNP is currently on heightened alert until Nov. 3, meaning that all police units nationwide are required to increase their level of readiness and security posture to respond quickly to any untoward incident or emergency situations.
Gov’t to tap diplomatic channels to recover Zaldy Co’s air assets
By Pot Chavez and Joel Zurbano
THE government will have to tap diplomatic channels and court orders would be needed to recover air assets of resigned Ako Bicol partylist Rep. Zaldy Co which are now in Malaysia and Singapore, Department of Justice Spokesperson Polo Martinez said yesterday.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has confirmed that three registered air assets belonging to resigned Ako Bicol Partylist representative Zaldy Co have left the country.
Tipo-tipo
Two AgustaWestland helicopters are located in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, having flown there on August 20 and September 11, respectively. In addition, the Gulfstream aircraft has been in Singapore since August 16.
Mayor slams ‘siege’, denies ‘rido’ sparked violence
By Rex Espiritu
TIPO-TIPO, Basilan Mayor Ingatun
“Tong” Istarul condemned what he described as a “siege’ in his town on Tuesday which left at least four civilians wounded, displaced around 12,000 residents, and caused significant damage to properties.
In an official statement, Istarul said the assault began at around 5:00 a.m. and involved an estimated 200 armed men who fired high-powered firearms and M203 grenades, some of which hit the mayor’s residence. The attack forced residents to flee to the neighboring towns of Ungkaya Pukan and Albarka for safety.
“It was not a regular rido (clan feud) which usually occurs among families and lasts for years. This incident was distinct -- a deliberate, organized armed action supported
by MILF elements who took justice into their own hands,” the statement read. “Thereby endangering the peace process and the safety of civilian communities.”
The mayor strongly condemned the acts saying it “endangered our people and disrupted the peace of our municipality,” urging MILF leaders and the CCCH to strengthen control mechanisms over their members to prevent similar incidents.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Army reported that tensions in Tipo-Tipo have eased as military and police forces continue to secure the area.
“Wala na (The tension is gone) but our forces are still securing the area,” Army spokesperson Col. Louie Demaala said when asked for updates on the incident which affected the abovementioned community.
“CAAP emphasizes that it continues to diligently monitor all registered air assets in compliance with the law,” the agency said in a statement.
Martinez explained in an interview with DZMM that a court order is required to recover the assets abroad considering it is located outside the country.
“According to the law, assets that are not in the Philippines or outside of our jurisdiction cannot be simply seized by our courts or law enforcement [agencies] because they are outside our territorial jurisdiction. But that is not to say that we have no recourse, one of the possible
avenues is coordinating with the countries where these assets are located,” he said. While said order is needed to enforce the recovery of the assets, Martinez stressed that diplomatic channels would be the best possible avenue.
He noted that a complaint filed with a court is necessary where a motion seeks to recover certain properties. Upon assessment of evidence, the court will be able to determine if there are enough grounds to grant such motion.
There is still a legal challenge to recover assets not found in local jurisdiction even if there is a court order.
Chiz pushes for standard pricing for infra projects
By Ram Superable
SENATOR Francis Escudero yesterday said he has filed a measure seeking to establish a standardized pricing system for government infrastructure projects to curb overpricing and promote transparency.
The proposed legislation supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call to slash construction costs and institutionalize reforms within the Department of Public Works and Highways.
“It’s not enough to simply estimate a project’s cost. There must be a clear basis, detailed computation, and accountability,” he said.
Escudero’s Senate Bill No. 1467 introduces a Detailed Unit Price Analysis system designed to ensure that project budgets accurately reflect prevailing market prices.
The system requires that all infrastructure appropriations be supported by technical documentation detailing the cost of labor, materials, and equipment.
Escudero said the proposal aims to make budgeting for public works more transparent and accountable by linking every peso spent to verifiable data.
He submitted a copy of the bill to Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, requesting its inclusion in budget deliberations for 2026.
“When the price of every nail, cement, and service is clearly defined, government spending becomes more transparent. The public can better see where every peso goes,” he said.
Escudero said the reform is urgent given that the 2026 infrastructure budget is projected to reach P1.56 trillion, or about 23 percent of total government spending.
HAIR OLYMPICS CHAMPS. Ricky Reyes poses with the Filipino
champions of the recently concluded 29th Asia Pacific Hair Olympics (APHCA). The winners bested their opponents in the Bridal Makeup category, Creative Colorful Braiding, Dream Makeup, Ladies’ Cut and Color, Men’s Cut and Hair Color. Norman Cruz
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2025 mst.daydesk@gmail.com
IN BRIEF
No voter registration during Undas—Comelec
THE Commission on Elections announced the suspension of all voter registration activities from October 30 to November 2, 2025, in observance of Undas or All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.
In an advisory, the Comelec said voter registration will be paused starting noon on October 30 and will resume on November 3. The commission said the suspension is a way to join the nation in honoring the memory of departed loved ones, adding that through prayer and reflection, “we keep their spirit alive.”
The Comelec earlier resumed nationwide voter registration for the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE). The registration period started on October 20, 2025, and will continue until May 18, 2026. Vito Barcelo
Ugandan nabbed over P42m shabu at NAIA-3
A UGANDAN national was apprehended after being found in possession of shabu valued at over P42 million at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on Tuesday, October 28. The Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNP Avsegroup) did not disclose the identity of the foreigner. However, the suspect was characterized as a 45-year-old businessman who had arrived in the country from Madagascar, with a subsequent flight to Addis Ababa. Before the arrest, a Customs X-ray operator detected a suspicious image within the passenger’s gray suitcase during the security screening process.
The image, which likely indicated the presence of illegal drugs, drew immediate attention, and the information was promptly communicated to the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (IADITG). Upon opening and examining the suitcase, authorities uncovered 6,250 grams of shabu. Joel E. Zurbano
BI arrests 2 Koreans for overstaying in PH
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested two Korean nationals in separate operations in the Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, for overstaying in the country, in violation of Philippine immigration laws.
The BI identified the foreigners as Shin Duk Young and Kim Joobo, who both exceeded their authorized stay in the Philippines.
According to the BI Intelligence Division Chief Fortunato Manahan Jr., they first apprehended Shin at his residence in Clark, with assistance from the Clark Development Corporation, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine Navy, and the Police Regional Office 3. After the first operation, agents proceeded to another location within Clark, where Kim was arrested for the same offense. Vito Barcelo
PBBM okays Tatak Pinoy strategy
QC fetes 6 people, 4 orgs for Gawad Parangal
By Rio N. Araja
THE Quezon City government has honored six individuals and four organizations for their significant contributions to the city during the 23rd Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal on October 28.
Mayor Joy Belmonte said the Gawad Parangal is an occasion to celebrate excellence and a reminder that the city’s progress is built by people who serve with purpose and lead with heart.
“What inspires me most about our awardees is that none of them set out to be
Isko urges Manila biz leaders to avail of city’s tax amnesty
By Pot Chavez
MANILA
Mayor Francisco “Isko
Moreno” Domagoso urged the capital city’s business leaders and property owners to take advantage of the General Tax Amnesty and early payment discounts for real property tax. He made this remark during a forum of the Anvil Business Club Tuesday evening, explaining that these measures were designed to help taxpayers clean their records while boosting the city’s fiscal recovery.
“Your record is now clean, there are no more tax claims or problems, and the government has collected funds for the government projects... If you pay early, it will be a big help to you and the city,” he said in Filipino. Earlier this year, Domagoso signed the General Tax Amnesty under Ordinance No. 9118, which remains in effect until the end of the year.
Domagoso said at least P266.36 million in delinquent taxes have been collected since the amnesty’s implementation, consisting of P127.43 million in real property tax, P94.98 million in business tax, and P43.93 million in miscellaneous collections.
Without the amnesty, Domagoso said the total dues would have reached P380.17 million, meaning taxpayers collectively saved around P113.8 million through the program.
As of this month, a total of 13,988 taxpayers availed of the amnesty to regularize their accounts and clear longstanding obligations.
Likewise, Domagoso announced 20 percent discount incentives for early payment of the 2026 Real Property Tax.
The said discount can be availed for full payments made before December 10, while 15 percent will be extended for payments from December 11–29, and 10 percent for those settled between December 30 and January 31, 2026.
recognized. They simply saw a need and chose to act. That’s the kind of culture we want to nurture in Quezon City. We want to live in a city where people and organizations uplift others genuinely without expecting anything in return. When you have people like that working in every corner of our city, real progress naturally follows,” she said.
The awardees included Lorelei Vinluan, a mental health advocate; Rogelio Antonio Jr., a 13-time Philippine Open Chess Champion; Gerald Piad, a developer of the Computerized Evacuation System; and Kuya
Center for Street Children, a city-based non-government organization providing shelter, education and care for over 300 orphaned, neglected, and runaway children, for their human and social services. For environment and climate change, the awardees were Arlyn Guillermo, a barangay kagawad behind the “SANA Oil” program; and Partnerships for Sustainability Education, a network of schools, organizations, and communities advancing sustainability and climate education through its Integrated Regenerative Education Ecosystem.
PRESIDENT
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the Tatak Pinoy Strategy (TPS), a national plan designed to strengthen Philippine industries, expand local production, and boost the global competitiveness of Filipino goods and services.
Through Memorandum Circular No. 104, Mr. Marcos directed national government agencies, government-owned or -controlled corporations and local government units to support the implementation of the TPS.
The strategy was developed by the Tatak Pinoy Council, led by the Department of Trade and Industry in consultation with the private sector, research institutions and other key stakeholders.
The circular builds on Republic Act No. 11981, or the Tatak Pinoy Act, which seeks to encourage, support and promote the production and offering of Philippine-made products and services that are diverse, sophisticated and globally competitive.
According to the DTI, the Tatak Pinoy Strategy was crafted through an inclusive and evidence-based process to expand and diversify the productive capacities of domestic enterprises, enabling them to move up the value chain and compete internationally.
The TP Council will submit action plans at the national, provincial, city and municipal levels for the President’s approval to ensure cohesive implementation.
Under the circular, the DTI, in coordination with the Presidential Communications Office, will disseminate the official copy of the strategy to all concerned government offices and make it publicly accessible through the DTI’s official website and other platforms.
By Joel E. Zurbano
THE Makati City government is allocating P34 million in financial assistance to support areas severely impacted by recent earthquakes and typhoons.
ACCIDENT. A wing van loaded with flour is seen at the corner of Mindanao Avenue and Congressional Avenue in Quezon City after it hit a traffic light early Wednesday morning. The van driver’s assistant was killed in the accident. Manny Palmero
REMEMBRANCE. Families visiting their departed loved ones ahead of All Saints Day buy flowers and candles from a booth near the Manila North Cemetery on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. Norman Cruz
SUSTAINABLE CELEBRATION. Workers repurpose logs to create a giant Christmas tree at Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City. Joan Bondoc
OPINION
Fry and fly
THE brilliant John Henry Osmena, in opposing the imposition of the death penalty, explained it would only make “poor men fry, while rich men fly.”
Last week, ICI commissioners and the DILG secretary showed to the media the newly completed dormitories where today’s sensational crooks will be detained. These cells are a far cry from the cramped and sub-human lodgings of ordinary prisoners languishing in our jails.
Last week too, the Sandiganbayan finally acquitted presidential legal counsel Juan Ponce Enrile and recently released Gigi Reyes over the Napoles-PDAF plunder cases. One recalls the sad fate of the chief of staff of then senator Bong Revilla, Atty. Richard Cambe, the fall guy who eventually died while in prison. Revilla Jr. has been set free and was re-elected shortly after his acquittal.
Meanwhile, it is almost certain the district engineers and their subordinates will be detained in those new cells, perhaps some hapless contractors too who collaborated with them.
But what about the legislators who mangled the budget to provide funds for ghost and sub-standard projects to demand hefty cuts of “liempo.” pre-paid by contractors and delivered up-front by the DPWH personnel?
Yet one Zaldy Co, perhaps armed with a Maltese passport, is ensconced in some European villa or maybe a Caribbean hide-away, even a Colombian jungle, for all we know.
“Poor” men (though moneyed now) fry; rich men fly (even get re-elected). Imagine if they are deposited inside Munti or our city jails instead of the newly built detention cells. Maybe they would rather fry.
***
If PRRD or PNoy were president, what would have been the fate of the former “honorable” Co, “emperor” of Bicolandia who has flown the coop?
They would likely direct DFA to cancel his passport, regardless of the legal challenge such an act would make. Remember what PNoy, through Leila de Lima, did to GMA?
It was easy for the current president to cooperate with the ICC and shanghaied his predecessor to Den Haag, but he cannot act decisively against the escaped Zaldy Co, whose engineering and financial legerdemain now bedevils the entire nation in paroxysms of outrage.
From public works to pandemic supplies to obsolete laptops to an attempted monopoly of fish importation, alleged massive rice importations, to even Egates at NAIA, Why, he even attempted to get the DOT to create a “son et lumière” spectacle that would have ringed Mount Mayon with lights, and even fence the approaches to it, “sacre bleu”!
Yet, as Mayor Benjie Magalong said, “he will not be allowed to return.”
What secrets leading to whomever higher would Zaldy reveal if he is faced with the prospect of being detained along with “low-life’s” in Johnvic Remulla’s custom-made cells?
***
Will Ping Lacson’s resurrected Blue Ribbon investigation produce ex-Marine Orly Guteza and cross-examine his explosive revelation as delivery boy of Zaldy?
Poor’ men (though moneyed now) fry; rich men fly (even get reelected)
Guteza’s credibility was unfairly questioned by Zaldy’s Ridon, despite taking an oath before the Senate, just because the guy availed himself of a 24-hour service by a notary who probably should be disbarred for 7-11 notarial attestations. Would there be some others in the woodwork waiting to corroborate the soldier’s claims?
***
But who, aside from the “emperor” of Bicolandia could identify the legislators for whom they collaborated to deliver the huge “commissions” demanded by the providers of DBM-blessed “leadership funds” in the president’s budget, along with amendments called “insertions,” and on top of that, the release of unprogrammed allocations, whether “allocable or un-allocable” (in Tagalog, spell that as “alok-able” and “meron ng may-ari”).
Why not get the DPWH undersecretaries, retired or fired, to “sing” like canaries, those from planning to operations who supervised the RDs and DEs while their octogenarian secretary nodded in unquestioning approval?
These characters would make perfect “state witnesses” as they are less guilty than the legislators and even the DEs and their assistants.
It is likely they also got mere “royalties,” “pa-kurot-kurot,” just like the COA resident auditors and their DBM conscripts.
But their testimonies would be “nails in the coffin” needed to convict the real masterminds. That would de-populate Congress, which should be a good thing.
***
Though much too late, the Supreme Court issued rules for extradition that require judicial approval before a Filipino is surrendered to a foreign state. That will save Bato et al. who Trillanes and Conti are gleefully expecting to join the former president in Den Haag. But the foul deed has been done to a leader who will not fry but cannot fly back.
The
City Integrated Bus Terminal
LAST week, the City of Baguio released a statement it has awarded Magawide Construction Corporation the contract to develop the so-called world class Baguio City Integrated Bus Terminal which will cost P1.2-b.
This will be constructed in a fivehectare portion of the Bureau of Animal Industry along Marcos Highway.
One of the principal reasons for this project is to address the perennial city problem of traffic congestion. From the available information released thus far by the city, buses entering the city from the South like Metro Manila will no longer be allowed to go to the downtown area of the city.
All buses must henceforth discharge all passengers at the terminal who will then have to be ferried as the news release stated by other transport modes to their final city destinations.
The other modes are actually still road-based transports which, in the strict sense of the word, is not another mode of transport.
The BCIBT will be able to accommodate 25,000 passengers a day and all the facilities in the terminal will all be up to international standards from toilets, waiting areas, parking and other service facilities like eateries and snack outlets. Tthese are of course very good news to commuters who patronize public trans-
portation because God knows the city is badly in need of a modern public transport terminal. The current bus terminal for most of the bus companies going to the summer capital is no terminal at all but simply a bus stop where passengers are discharged and board using public road.
All buses must henceforth discharge all passengers at the terminal who will then have to be ferried by other transport modes to their final city destinations
But whether in fact the BCIBT will finally decongest the city’s perennial traffic problem is something that needs further looking into.
This is not to say the new terminal project should not go thru because it should but the city must simply be more prepared to tackle the other traffic issues
This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: A horizontal pen-and-ink political cartoon with muted gray-blue tints and heavy cross-hatching. Foreground: A small, weather-beaten Filipino fishing boat labeled ‘Small Fisherfolk’ tossed violently by enormous waves made of paper, their crests formed by the words ‘International Law’ and ‘ASEAN Declaration.’ The fisherman grips the rudder, shouting, ‘Save our catch! Save our rights!’ Background: A massive Chinese trawler dominates the horizon, its net sweeping through the waves. The net is labeled ‘Ambiguous Claims’ and filled with fish marked ‘Resources,’ ‘Territory,’ ‘Livelihood.’ On the distant shore, a Filipino official in a suit stands calmly with a megaphone, proclaiming, ‘Deepen cooperation!’ oblivious to the chaos offshore. Around him, seagulls shaped like paper doves of diplomacy scatter, some torn or waterlogged. The sea is dark and textured with deep cross-hatching; the sky cloudy, heavy with ink tones. The Philippine flag droops on a pier pole in the corner. Tone: ironic, melancholic, and socially critical — a weary satire of political rhetoric versus lived vulnerability.
Fight inflation first, corruption later?
IF THE results of the latest Social Weather Stations survey are an accurate reflection of popular sentiment, the majority of Filipinos want the Marcos Jr. administration to fight inflation first before corruption issues.
The numbers indicate that 56 percent of Filipinos believe the government should focus on inflation while only 31 percent want to combat corruption first.
It shouldn’t be one or the other.
In other words, the administration should recalibrate its priorities toward policies that directly ease the burden of high living costs at this point even while pursuing reforms that eliminate corruption.
It is true that many Filipinos are still struggling to afford basic food.
Hence, through this survey, Filipinos are sending a strong message that government should address inflation and prioritize food security while ensuring that public officials should always uphold transparency and accountability.
The survey emphasizes the need for the Marcos administration to rethink its priorities and adopt policies aimed at easing the burden of high living costs
that will arise when the new terminal starts operation.
One of these for instance is the increase in vehicles using the Marcos Highway from the city to the new terminal. Currently, most of the bus stations are all clustered together at the Gov Pack Road which is below the SM Mall on top of Session Road.
Other bus companies, however, like the Victory Liner and a couple of others have their own terminals scattered around the city. With the city’s press statement, we assume these bus companies with separate stations must now also have to use the integrated terminal and stop using their own stations.
Of the three highways entering the city, only Marcos and Naguilian Roads are open to all types of vehicles. The Kennon road is only open to light
while also putting in place reforms that curb corruption. The inflation rate in September stood at 1.7 percent, representing a six-month high. This has been driven by surging food costs after a series of storms that flooded farms and destroyed crops.
This moment is not just a crisis; it’s a pivotal moment
Filipinos are demanding urgent relief from inflation, but not at the expense of accountability. The government must pursue a dual-track strategy: stabilize food prices while ensuring full transparency in the investigation of the flood control scandal. To respond effectively, the Marcos
vehicles and is often closed to traffic especially during typhoons. Marcos Highway even without the BCIBT is already congested as it is and this will worsen considerably when the new terminal will open.
This is because when all the bus passengers will be discharged at the terminal, all the passengers will then have to take another ride to go to their final destinations. They will have to take jeepneys, taxis or be picked up by private vehicles and since all these vehicles have smaller carrying capacities than the buses, the number of vehicles using Marcos highway will actually double if not triple which will worsen congestion.
What about the buses using Naguilian Road coming from the northern provinces of Region1? Will these buses still be allowed to en-
administration must recalibrate its priorities without abandoning either front.
On one hand, it should take action toward immediate inflation relief. The government should expand targeted subsidies for rice, vegetables, and essential goods, especially for low-income families.
At the same time, it should accelerate importation and distribution of food staples to stabilize supply and prices. Support for farmers is essential. They should be given emergency assistance, crop insurance, and climateresilient infrastructure to recover from storm damage.
At the same time, the government should open the flood control probe to public scrutiny by making its findings public, holding public hearings, and involving civil society watchdogs. This moment is not just a crisis; it’s a pivotal moment.
The government should adopt three basic thrusts: food security as a human right; corruption as a threat to survival; and transparency as the foundation of economic recovery.
By doing all this, the government can align with public sentiment, restore credibility, and gather momentum for meaningful reforms.
ter the city?
The press release did not say. There was also nothing said about buses coming from Nueva Viscaya using the Ambuklao Road or those using Halsema Road entering the City. Will it be business as usual for them and will not be affected by the BCIBT? Besides, it’s also probably going to be difficult to prohibit all of them from entering the city after discharging passengers at the BCIBT because these buses have depots inside the city proper being used for overnight parking unless the terminal has such facilities.
Anyway, given that the city has no dedicated office handling public transportation and traffic which has become more complicated, now is probably the right time to establish one to better prepare for the terminal when it starts operation.
Baguio
Trump expects ‘great meeting’
GYEONGJU, South Korea – US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he expected a “lot of problems” to be solved with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in their talks on dialling down their hugely damaging trade war.
The US leader said he expected their first face-to-face meeting of his second term scheduled on Thursday to result in the United States lowering tariffs imposed on China in relation to fentanyl.
“I think we’re going to have a great meeting with President Xi of China, and a lot of problems are going to be solved,” Trump said en route to South Korea where he is due to meet with Xi, saying he is “optimistic”.
“We have been talking to them, we’re not just walking into the meeting cold... I think we’re going to have a very good outcome for our country and for the world actually,” he said on Air Force One. He also said he was “not sure” whether he would discuss the sensitive topic of self-ruling Taiwan during his meeting with the Chinese leader.
Trump’s visit to key US ally South Korea is the third leg of an Asia tour that has seen him lavished with praise and presents at a regional summit in Malaysia and by Japan’s new premier in Tokyo. But the eyes of the world -and of global markets -- will be on the talks set for Thursday, the first time in six years Trump sits down with Xi.
It could determine whether the United States and China can halt a trade war that has sent international supply chains into panic.
Negotiators from Beijing and Washington have both confirmed a “framework” has been agreed. It is now up to Trump and Xi to nail it down during their meeting on the sidelines of the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in the South Korean city of Gyeongju where Trump arrived Wednesday. AFP
Islamabad says peace talks for lasting truce with Kabul ‘failed’
– Pakistan said Wednesday negotiations for a lasting truce with Afghanistan had “failed to bring about a workable solution”, warning it would take steps to protect its people.
Pakistan and Afghanistan have been holding negotiations in Istanbul aimed at securing peace after the South Asian neighbors’ deadliest border clashes in years.
The violence, which killed more than 70 people and wounded hundreds, erupted following explosions in Kabul on October 9 that the Taliban authorities blamed on Pakistan.
“Regrettably, the Afghan side gave no assurances, kept deviating from the core issue and resorted to blame game, deflection and ruses,” Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said on X after four days of negotiations brokered by Qatar and Turkey.
“The dialogue thus failed to bring about any workable solution.”
Tarar said Pakistan engaged with Afghanistan in the spirit of peace, but accused Kabul of “unabated support to
“We will continue to take all possible measures necessary to protect our people from the menace of terrorism,” he added, vowing to “decimate the terrorists, their sanctuaries, their abetters and supporters”. There was no immediate comment from Afghanistan. Relations between the one-time allies, who share a 2,600-kilometer frontier, have soured in recent years over accusations from Islamabad that Afghanistan harbors militant groups which stage attacks in Pakistan.
Of particular concern to Islamabad is the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan militant group, which Islamabad has been demanding action against. Pakistan accuses the Taliban authorities of allowing the TTP to use Afghan territory as a “training-cum-logistic base and jump off point for terrorist activities”, according to Tarar’s statement.
The Taliban government has consistently denied the allegations. AFP
Trump: ‘Nothing’ will jeopardize Gaza ceasefire
GAZA CITY – US President Donald Trump said Wednesday “nothing” would jeopardize the ceasefire in Gaza, after Israel carried out air strikes on the Palestinian territory accusing Hamas of violating the truce, which the militant group denied.
Gaza’s civil defense agency said at least 38 people were killed in the Israeli strikes, which took place on Tuesday.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered “powerful strikes” on Gaza, after his defense minister accused Hamas of attacking Israeli troops in Gaza.
While Israel Katz did not say where the troops were attacked, Hamas said its fighters had “no connection to the shooting incident in Rafah” and reaffirmed its commitment to the US-brokered ceasefire.
Trump defended Israel’s actions on Wednesday, saying it “should hit back” if Israeli soldiers were killed, but added that “nothing’s going to jeopardize” to truce.
“They killed an Israeli soldier. So the Israelis hit back. And they should hit back,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One during his tour of Asia.
US Vice President JD Vance said the ceasefire was holding despite the “skirmishes”.
“We know that Hamas or somebody else within Gaza attacked an IDF soldier... but I think the president’s peace is going to hold,” he said.
Gaza’s civil defence agency said at least three strikes were carried out, while the territory’s main Al-Shifa hospital said one hit its backyard.
Al-Awda Hospital said it had received several bodies, including those of four children, killed in the bombing of Gaza’s central Nuseirat refugee camp.
Hamas announced it would delay handing over the body of another hostage, due on Tuesday, saying Israeli “escalation will hinder the search, excavation, and recovery of the bodies”.
Hamas militants had taken 251 people hostage during the Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel that triggered the war. AFP
Trump ‘not allowed’ to run for 3rd term
ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE – President
Donald Trump said Wednesday he is “not allowed” to run for a third term, acknowledging the limits laid out in the US Constitution.
Trump and his supporters have repeatedly raised the question of a 2028 presidential run for the 79-year-old, drawing concern from his foes and cheers from backers.
“I have my highest poll numbers that I’ve ever had, and you know, based on what I read, I guess I’m not allowed to run, so we’ll see what happens... It’s too bad,” Trump said on Air Force One.
The US Constitution limits presidents to two terms, and Trump began his second in January.
Trump, who served his initial term from 2017 to 2021, often mentions that his supporters have called for him to govern beyond his current tenure, despite the constitutional restriction.
The former reality TV star has also recently displayed red hats emblazoned with the slogan “Trump 2028” on a desk in the Oval Office. AFP
Japan-US ties ‘key to deterring China’
TOKYO – Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth said Wednesday the Japan-US alliance was “critical to deterring Chinese military aggression”, as his Japanese counterpart confirmed plans to accelerate a defense spending target.
The comments came in the wake of the first face-to-face meeting Tuesday between US President Donald Trump and new Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, where security was a major topic. Long-pacifist Japan is adopting a more muscular military stance as relations with China worsen.
“To respond to regional contingencies and keep our country safe, shoulder to shoulder with Japan, we look forward to continuing to strengthen our alliance,” Hegseth said during a meeting with Japan Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi in Tokyo.
Takaichi, a China hawk, said last week her government would achieve its target of spending two percent of gross domestic product on defence this fiscal year -- two years ahead of schedule. AFP
so-called “crimefluencers” -- online predators who used their social media savvy to target young and vulnerable users. AFP
ISLAMABAD
anti-Pakistan terrorists.”
Napolcom vows to resolve all pending cases within the year
By Vince Lopez
THE National Police Commission
(Napolcom) on Tuesday said all pending cases against policemen including those filed as far back as 25 years ago will be resolved before the year ends.
Napolcom chairman and chief executive Rafael Vicente Calinisan gave this assurance when asked for updates on the backlog of cases still awaiting resolution.
In a press briefing, Calinisan said that his mission of “zero case backlog” could be achieved by the end of the year, with the commitment of all lawyers and commissioners who had to report for work even on Saturdays.
Calinisan said upon assuming office nine months ago that he inherited thousands of cases against Philippine National Police personnel.
““We will not allow to have pending cases by the end of December 2025. In fact, every Saturday our Napolcom, your Napolcom, comes here to finish cases that we inherited from 25 years ago,” he said.
Calinisan also said they finished 70 of the 115 more cases tackled, bringing the total number to be resolved down to just some 1,000 by the end of December.
“That’s why we must do everything we can to clear up those (pending cases), because that’s justice. How can the people believe in the institution if the institution is slow? How can the people believe if the case they filed 25 years ago is not moving forward. That’s why we keep repeating it, all the old cases will be cleared by December 25,” he stressed.
Apart from the target zero backlog by year-end, Calinisan said all new cases will be resolved within 60 days.
“All new cases will be concluded in 60 days so that innocent police officers can go free. They don’t have to think that there are harassment cases against them. But as for the shameless police officers, they have already found their match, We will not allow them to wear uniforms. We will not allow them to wear badges and carry guns. We will remove them,” he warned..
Calinisan said policemen who have already retired from service and are now enjoying their pensions will have their benefit cut once they get a guilty verdict.
“That’s why we need to resolve their case even if it’s been a long time. There’s no shame in it, they’ll still receive their pension,” he added.
Online payment setup aboveboard, says LTO
By Rio N. Araja
THE Land Transportation Offi ce (LTO) on Wednesday clarifi ed reports about the status of its online payment platform, saying the process of selecting and approving payment service providers remains transparent, competitive and subject to government regulations.
The LTO confirmed in a statement that Paynamics Technologist Inc. has proposed a new partnership with 1Fort City Center, offering a lower service fee of P50 per transaction.
“However, the agency clarified that this new setup is still undergoing evaluation and approval by the Bureau of the Treasury, as required by government financial regulations,”
No Filipino injured, displaced by strong twister in Jamaica
By Katrina Manubay
THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has reported that no Filipino national was hurt or adversely affected by the strong hurricane that hit Jamaica.
The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. and the Philippine consulate in Kingston, Jamaica said however, that they were closely monitoring the situation in the Carribean country.
The DFA pledged to also coordinate with local authorities to ensure the safety and welfare of around 500 Filipinos in Jamaica.
The Philippine embassy in Washington admonished the
Filipinos in Jamaica to make all necessary preparations and heed the advice of local officials as hurricane “Melissa“ intensified into a Category 5 twister, making it the strongest storm to hit Jamaica this year.
According to reports, “Melissa” gathered strength anew to become Category 4 system after briefly weakening to Category 3 as it moves toward Cuba following its historic landfall in Jamaica.
As of press time, international news agencies said that the storm has claimed at least seven people, including three in Jamaica,, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic.
the statement read. The Department of Transportation earlier directed the LTO to reduce the service or convenience fee being charged to motorists using its online payment system. The current payment service provider, Paynamics/Goldgate Joint Venture, has been imposing a P60 convenience fee per transaction.
Upon review, the LTO discovered that the memorandum of agreement with Paynamics/Goldgate had expired last Oct. 27, ending a five-year term. Despite the expiration, the system continues to operate to ensure uninterrupted online services for the public while the agency processes applications for new or renewed payment gateway providers. At present, Paynamics/Goldgate remains the only active and authorized online payment service provider for LTO transactions.
“However, the agency stressed that the terms of reference (TOR) for its digital system clearly state that there must be multiple payment gateways (plural), ensuring that the system is non-exclusive and open to all qualified applicants,” it said.
Any company that meets the technical and financial requirements may apply to become an LTO payment gateway provider, the agency said.
Gov vows to push Ilocos Norte’s growth
ILOCOS Norte Gov. Cecilia AranetaMarcos reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening provincial tourism and investment as she delivered her first 100 days accomplishment report, outlining the province’s continuing socioeconomic progress
“Tourism is truly Ilocos Norte’s greatest beauty, and we are committed to taking it to new heights,” the governor said.
In her report, Marcos highlighted several milestones in the tourism sector, including Ilocos Norte’s P6.5 million in sales and garnering 2nd RunnerUp Best Booth recognition at the 36th Philippine Travel Mart.
She also cited the discovery of “hidden gems” in the province, such as the falls in Pasuquin and the mountain ranges in Solsona as potential tourist destinations.
Visitor services at the Laoag Inter-
national Airport have been improved to offer a “warm and seamless welcome for travelers,” she said.
The provincial government vigorously pushes world-class tourism infrastructure, including the construction of the Currimao Tabacalera and Kapurpurawan Stalls, the development of the La Virgen Milagrosa Chapel, and the transformation of the province’s lakesides into vibrant recreational and educational hubs through the Paoay Lakeshore Quays Project.
“We are already among the best, but there is still much work to be done,” Marcos noted.
“By connecting infrastructure, local talent, and global promotion, tourism will not only showcase the beauty of our land, but also uplift the lives of our people,” she added.
IN BRIEF
PH boosts protection for OFWs in Oman
THE Philippines and Oman have reaffirmed mutual commitment to safeguard the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Gulf state through stronger cooperation on migration-related concerns.
The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) and the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman met recently to explore ways to enhance collaboration.
CFO Secretary Dante Ang II talked with Omani ambassador Nasser Said Abdullah Al Manwari to discuss potential partnerships focusing on safe and orderly migration, ethical recruitment, and fair treatment of Filipino workers.
During the meeting, Ang presented the CFO’s major programs and services, emphasizing the government’s efforts to ensure dignified migration and protection of Filipino workers abroad. Both officials agreed to continue dialogue and coordination to address challenges faced by Filipino workers in Oman. Vito Barcelo
Bora tourist survives lightning strike
BORACAY Island—Malay officials have officially confirmed that a local tourist was struck by a lightning on Monday morning, but miraculously survives.
The tourist, a 38-year-old male from Bulacan, is currently in critical condition at an undisclosed hospital in Kalibo.
Catherine Ong, head of the Malay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), said initial investigation showed the victim was at the water when the lightning struck.
“The said lightning strike incident, considered a first in Boracay, makes us rethink of strategies to mitigate disasters in this resort island,” Ong said. Jun N. Aguirre
ARTA
ILOCOS NORTE PUTS BEST FOOT FORWARD. Visitors ock to a trade fair showcasing Ilocos Norte’s nest handicraft and cultural artifacts in a bid to boost the province’s tourism and investment sectors as envisioned by Gov. Cecilia Araneta-Marcos.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
Ababa pulls away as golf battle heats up
DAVAO City—Humbled in her titleretention drive at home just a week ago, Sarah Ababa now stands on the brink of redemption – and another triumph – barely three kilometers away from where disappointment last struck.
The homegrown ace scrambled for a one-under 71 to surge past erstwhile leader Chanelle Avaricio and a charging Florence Bisera in Wednesday’s penultimate round of the ICTSI South Pacific Golf Classic, moving just 18 holes away from claiming a second Ladies Philippine Golf Tour crown in three weeks.
Counting her opening 69, Ababa assembled a four-under 140, a score that lifted her to solo control in the ₱1 million championship. Still, the Davaoeña rued her shaky putting down the stretch that prevented her from securing a more comfortable cushion heading into Thursday’s final round.
“Sayang, three-putts ‘yung dalawang bogey ko,” said Ababa, referring to her miscues on Nos. 14 and 16. Ababa had seized a three-stroke lead after a brilliant, bogey-free 13hole run highlighted by three birdies. But she faltered on the greens late, three-putting from the fringe on the 14th and again misfiring on the 16th. Despite the late stumbles, her 35-36 card proved enough to wrest the lead and put her in prime position for a follow-up to her dramatic playoff victory over Avaricio at Del Monte two weeks ago. But she floundered at Apo Golf, where she finished 10th in her bid to defend her 2023 title.
Lumbo clings to 2-shot lead
DAVAO City—Jeffren Lumbo showed that calm, courage and conviction can weather even the challenging conditions.
The rookie from Sarangani displayed the poise of a battle-tested veteran as he staved off relentless challenges from a mix of seasoned rivals, grinding out a gutsy two-under 70 under steady drizzle to hold off Ryan Monsalve halfway through the ICTSI South Pacific Golf Classic here on Wednesday.
That he did it in wet, demanding conditions – where softened fairways, roughs and slick greens punished the slightest lapse – spoke volumes about the 29-year-old’s growing stature and steely mindset.
“Mahirap ang kondisyon, lalo na ang pin placement,” said Lumbo, who three-putted on No. 6 for a bogey and suffered another setback with an errant tee shot on the par-3 No. 15, resulting in another bogey. Despite these miscues, he carded a 35-35 round highlighted by four birdies, including an impressive run of three birdies over four holes from No. 10 to stay ahead of the packed at seven-under 137. And while he sustained his form, the rest struggled to keep pace.
As the Philippine Golf Tour’s established stars faltered, Monsalve seized the challenger’s role with a two-day total of 139, bolstering his bid for a breakthrough victory with an impressive bogeyfree 68. Russell Bautista also carded a four-under round to secure solo third at 140, as the tour’s lesser-known contenders positioned themselves for a potential shake-up in the P3.5 million event organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.
“I played some good second shots today. I understood the course better and kind of knew where to place my shots,” said Monsalve, whose overnight turnaround produced birdies on Nos. 2, 8, 13 and 14.
Enjoying one of his most impressive starts, Monsalve hopes to sustain his solid form through the next two rounds.
“I’ll focus on hitting the fairways and putting myself in good positions on the greens,” he said. Del Monte leg runaway winner Reymon Jaraula turned in an eagle-spiked 71 to join Korean Jaehyun Jung at joint fourth with 141s. Jung, who lost to Fidel Concepcion in sudden death at Apo last week, unleashed a three-birdie barrage over four holes from No. 15 to card a 70.
UST swimmer Santor carries Manila to Batang Pinoy lead
By Peter Atencio
GENERAL SANTOS CITY—
Seventeen-year-old
Patricia Santor’s hard work paid off on Wednesday on Day 4 of the 2025 Batang Pinoy National Championships here.
Santor snared two gold medals for a personal total of five and her efforts lifted Team Manila to the overall lead in the medal standings in the swimming competitions at the Antonio Acharon Sports Complex.
The 12th grader from the Univer-
sity of Santo Tomas shone bright in the 16-17 year old girls’ action, the first in the 200-meter butterfly, and the second with her teammates in record-breaking fashion in the 4x50meter freestyle relay event.
All fired up on a cloudy day, Santor’s efforts put Team Manila ahead of Baguio City in the Batang Pinoy’s medal tally, with 19 golds, 16 silvers and 14 bronzes, as of 5 p.m., Wednesday.
“I believe I did my best. And that’s all that matters to me,” said Santor, a 12th grader at the University of Santo Tomas, after she claimed her fourth mint in the 200-meter butterfly in 2:23.37, ahead of Ormoc’s Denise Estrera (2:34.10) and teammate Sinagtala Cuevas (2:35.24).
With teammates Jamie Sy, Eliana Rodriguez and Kristine Uy, they smashed the 4x50-meter freestyle mark of the Aubrey Tom-led Quezon
City (1:56.12) in 1:55.42, to finish ahead of Mandaue and Bacolod City.
Santor’s feat came as hometown favorite Isaiah Christian Lagnason missed his fourth gold medal after he was disqualified in the 16-17 year old 200-meter butterfly event due to a false start.
“We’re leading. And we’re contributing a lot to the overall championship for Manila,” said Manila head coach Cyrus Alcantara.
Lagnason, who still has one event left, conceded the podium to Bataan’s James de Guzman, who took first place honors in 2:20.75, with Ginoog’s Matt Margate and Pasay’s Ramon Ching in second and third.
Team Baguio (18-12-16) also got two gold medals from its boys’ and girls’ squads in the team juvenile section of the judo meet at Lagao Central Elementary School.
Peralta snares 2 medals, Lobrido also shines in Bahrain
MANAMA—Weightlifter Jhodie Peralta snared a silver and a bronze, while boxer Leo Mhar Lobrido copped a silver Tuesday in the 3rd Asian Youth Games at the Exhibition World Bahrain.
Peralta, a 16-year-old product of Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz’s weightlifting training center in Zamboanga City, came close to bagging not just one but two gold medals in the girls’ 53-kilogram division.
But fate wouldn’t have it, as Peralta settled for silver in the snatch, where she lifted 87 kilograms-just one kilogram behind eventual winner Pak Hae Yon of North Korea-and bronze in the clean and jerk, ruled again by the latter.
For a fleeting moment, the triple-gold winner in the World Youth Championships in Lima, Peru, early last May, set a new meet record of 100 kilograms after Pak and eventual silver medalist Y. Lien of Vietnam missed their first two attempts at heavier lifts. In the end, Lien registered 106 kilograms, while Pak eclipsed it with 107 kilograms. Peralta
was unable to carry 106 kg and 107 kg in her final two attempts, giving the bull-strong North Korean the triumph.
“Sayang, nakuha pa ng North Korean ng one kilo,” said Peralta, referring to their epic snatch duel where she and Pak battled fiercely.
The medals hiked the Philippines’ haul to six golds, seven silvers, and eight bronzes, although the delegation dropped from as high as fifth overall a few days ago to ninth at press time.
There is still hope for more medals, as the country still has athletes competing in jiu-jitsu, wrestling, swimming, and cycling, while its entries in table tennis and badminton have bowed out.
As for Lobrido, one of the country’s flag bearers, he was overwhelmed by the taller and longer Abdugani Yorkinjonov of Uzbekistan, absorbing a unanimousdecision loss in the boys’ 46kg class and settling for a bronze-the nation’s lone medal in the sport.
Breakthrough drive at Okayama puts Danzel Waytan in championship lead
By Christopher Kho
ROUND 3 of the 2025 Minutes En-
durance Race (MEC) 120 marked a major milestone for Danzel Waytan. Returning to the Okayama International Circuit with Racing Team Hero’s, the 17-year-old Filipino helped deliver a perfectly executed drive in tricky conditions—crossing the line 1st in the Pro-Am class alongside teammate Shunji Okumoto. But what should have been a maiden victory turned bittersweet, as a postrace penalty dropped them to 3rd in the final classification. After missing Round 2, Super GT and Super Taikyu driver Okumoto-san was back alongside Waytan in the #51 v.Granz entry. The pair resumed their Pro-Am campaign determined to convert their strong pairing into a win.
Waytan began his weekend with simulator training at Racing Team Hero’s Osaka office, lapping just a 10th off Okumoto-san’s pace. The speed translated well to the track, where Waytan was easily among the Top 5 during practice and emerged as one of the quickest Am drivers on the grid. He was then tasked with Qualifying duties and delivered a strong performance. His best lap of 1:38.339 was only 0.726 secs off pole, placing the #51 entry P7 on the grid.
Race day, however, brought constantly changing conditions. Waytan took the start and quickly moved up to P5 on the opening lap, before the Safety Car was deployed almost immediately following an incident. Racing Team Hero’s used the window to make their first mandatory stop, with Okumoto now taking over in the driver’s seat.
The Japanese driver made quick work of the traffic, putting in fast, consistent laps as the weather worsened. By the time he pitted for the final driver change, they had climbed to P2, with 40 mins remaining on the clock and Waytan jumping back in for the run to the flag.
The closing stint was largely neutralized by several Safety Car periods, as conditions deteriorated further. Waytan focused on survival, avoiding mistakes, and keeping the car on track. Their pit strategy proved decisive, allowing them to move into the class lead before the race ended behind the Safety Car with 48 laps completed.
After two runner-up finishes, Waytan had finally claimed his first win in MEC 120—becoming the first Filipino driver to do so. But their celebrations were cut short when a 30-sec post-race penalty, due to an earlier off-track moment by Okumoto, relegated the pair to 3rd place.
Despite the disappointing twist, the podium finish was enough to put
Erolon trey lifts Falcons past Tigers
MATTY Erolon drained the gamewinning triple to cap Adamson University’s improbable comefrom-behind 97-96 victory over University of Santo Tomas in the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Basketball Tournament on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The Soaring Falcons looked finished after trailing 80-88 with 32.2 seconds left in regulation, but the Growling Tigers missed five of six free throws, allowing coach Pido Jarencio’s squad to stay alive. Down 86-89 following two free throws by Ray Allen Torres with 9.5 seconds left, UST called a timeout to advance the ball.
Adamson, however, forced a turnover as Cedrick Manzano and Torres double-teamed Kyle Paranada, who then lost the ball. This led to Monty Montebon’s three-pointer with 1.6 seconds remaining, sending the game into overtime.
In the extra period, down 94-96, Erolon drilled a triple and drew a foul with 2.6 seconds left to put the Soaring Falcons ahead. Although he missed the bonus free throw, the Growling Tigers failed to capitalize on their final possession, sealing their downfall.
Adamson extended its winning streak to four games, tying UST at 5-4, just one game behind defending champion University of the Philippines (6-3) at second place. Not only are the Soaring Falcons in Final Four contention, but they also entered the twice-to-beat conversation.
“We’re developing grit. I huddled the team after, I thanked them for not giving up. I go back to the first round sabi ko ‘paano namin tatalunin ang UST? Kapag nakatono’. Today, we were out of tune, it was a struggle… it’s good that our players played for each other,” said
Patricia Santor
Sarah Ababa Manny Marcelo
Jhodie Peralta falls just short of a gold medal. POC POOL Waytan and Okumoto in the
single point.
showdown.
Danzel Waytan ashes the no. 1 sign
(ICD) at the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) Golden Arrow Awards 2025. Receiving the award on behalf of Vivant is corporate secretary and vice president of legal Maila de Castro (center) from ICD directors Tomasa Lipana (left) and Jose Tomas Syquia.
IN BRIEF
By Othel V. Campos
invest nearly P14 billion to establish climatecontrolled military warehouses, ammunition production and drone manufacturing facilities at the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO).
This will expand the company’s footprint in the Philippines to support logistics and defense innovation in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Washington D.C.–incorporated firm, which already operates climate-controlled warehouses for humanitarian aid and disaster-relief (HSDR) operations in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, will leverage the APECO expansion to complement its current setup.
The positioning aims to make Aurora a strategic logistics and manufacturing base for both defense and humanitarian needs.
APECO president and chief executive Gil Taway said the project, while having a defense component, would broadly focus on innovation, logistics and humanitarian support, aligning with APECO’s mission to promote inclusive industrial growth.
“Anglicotech first proposed to build temperature-controlled warehouses for humanitarian and disaster-response supplies. After
seeing APECO’s potential, they expanded their plan to include drone and ammunition manufacturing,” Taway said.
The Subic facilities serve as a logistics hub under a US-led initiative, facilitating the prepositioning of critical supplies and equipment for rapid deployment in the region. Taway said investments like this bring jobs, technology transfer and sustainable growth. Anglicotech executives, led by David Cooper, attended APECO’s investment forum in August and are expected to return to Manila to finalize the agreement after completing regulatory processes in the US.
APECO has also recently advanced non-defense infrastructure deals, including signing a tripartite memorandum of agreement with South Korea’s Yooshin Engineering Corporation and Philippine firm Lordsbridge Resources Corporation for a new port at Casiguran, which is seen as part of the region’s logistics backbone.
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
CIRCULAR NO. 1221
Series of 2025
Subject : Amendments to the Regulatory Relief Policy
The Monetary Board, in its Resolution No. 1024 dated 16 October 2025 approved the amendments to the guidelines on the grant of regulatory relief measures to banks affected by calamities as provided under Section 1151 of the Manual of Regulations for Banks (MORB).
The amended guidelines provide additional regulatory relief measures to banks to further support them in their recovery from calamities and enable them to provide prompt and direct relief to affected borrowers and other stakeholders.
Section 1. Section 1151 of the MORB shall be amended to read as follows:
1151 REGULATORY RELIEF POLICY
Policy statement The Policy sets forth the guidelines for granting regulatory relief measures to banks affected by calamities, providing a uniform and systematic approach to their implementation. The Bangko Sentral recognizes the vulnerability of the Philippines to both natural and human-induced hazards, which can lead to certain areas being declared under a state of calamity. Such calamities can disrupt business operations and result in damages and losses, affecting income streams or cash flows, including paying capacity and risk profile of clients of banks.
Consistent with the Bangko Sentral’s aim for banks to strengthen operational resilience supported by their business continuity or disaster recovery measures, the regulatory relief package provides adequate support and enables calamity-affected banks to adapt and continue delivering essential financial services amid disruption.
Nothing in this Section shall be construed as superseding the previously granted temporary regulatory relief to banks under Appendix 92
Definition of terms1 For purposes of this Section, the following definitions shall apply:
a. Hazard – a dangerous phenomenon, x x x or environmental damage.2
b. Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (LDRRMC) – x x x
c. National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) – x x x
d. Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) – x x x
e. State of Calamity – a condition involving mass casualty, and/or major damages to property, disruption of means of livelihoods, roads, and normal way of life of people in the affected areas, as a result of the occurrence of natural or humaninduced hazard. In accordance with Section 16 of R.A. No. 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, the NDRRMC shall recommend to the President of the Philippines the declaration of a cluster of barangays, municipalities, cities, provinces, and regions under a state of calamity, and the lifting thereof, based on the criteria set by the NDRRMC. It further provides that the declaration and lifting of the state of calamity may also be issued by the local sanggunian, upon the recommendation of the R/LDRRMC, based on the results of the damage assessment and needs analysis.
f. Affected areas – refer to Philippine regions, provinces, cities, municipalities or barangays which have been heavily impacted by a hazard or a combination thereof, and have been officially placed under a state of calamity. For purposes of determining eligibility of customers/borrowers, the affected area shall pertain to the location where the client’s business operations are conducted or where the income-generating activity or residence is situated, as applicable.
g. Inception date of the calamity – refers to any of the following dates which can be used to commence application of regulatory relief measures:
(1) In the case of tropical cyclones, the date of landfall in affected areas where the head office, branch, branch-lite unit or customer/borrower of the bank is located based on the report/s by the NDRRMC/RDRRMC/LDRRMC or the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
For tropical cyclones that have not made landfall, the date of occurrence of hazard-related incidents (e.g., flooded areas, tornado/destructive winds/ strong winds, landslide, maritime incident, etc.) based on the report/s by the NDRRMC/RDRRMC/LDRRMC;
(2) For other natural hazards, the earliest recorded date of occurrence of the hazard or any hazard-related incidents based on the report/s or advisories, or bulletins that may be issued by the NDRRMC/RDRRMC/LDRRMC or the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), or other relevant government agencies; or
(3) For human-induced hazards, the date of declaration of a state of calamity.
h. Availment period – refers to the allowable time within which banks can avail any of the regulatory relief measures by notifying the Bangko Sentral. For this purpose, banks are given a period of one (1) year from the inception date of the calamity.
i. Regulatory relief period - refers to the time within which a particular regulatory relief measure can be utilized. For this purpose, a regulatory relief measure is effective for one (1) year from the inception date of the calamity, unless otherwise specified.
Eligibility requirements Banks with head offices, branches, branch-lite units, or customers/borrowers located in affected areas are eligible to avail of the regulatory relief package under this Section, within the defined availment period.
Regulatory relief packagex
For All Banks
a. Flexibility in financial assistance for bank officers. Banks may extend financial assistance to officers adversely impacted by calamities in declared affected areas, that are not within the scope of the existing Bangko Sentral-approved purposes pursuant to Sec. 135 (Loans, advances, and other credit accommodations to officers); Provided, That the request for post Bangko Sentral-approval of the grant of loans, advances, or any other forms of credit accommodations to such officers shall be submitted, within ninety (90) calendar days from the date of approval thereof by the bank’s board of directors, to the appropriate supervising department of the Bangko Sentral for regularization.
Banks are not precluded from extending financial assistance to their employees other than officers who are likewise adversely impacted by calamities in declared affected areas.
b. Temporary grace period for loan payments. Banks may grant a temporary grace period of up to six (6) months to borrowers adversely impacted by calamities in declared affected areas.
The temporary grace period may cover all outstanding loans that were classified as current prior to the inception date of the calamity, with principal and/or interest payments falling due or which may start on the inception date of the calamity.
The implementation of the grace period shall be based on mutually agreed terms between the bank and the borrower. The parties may likewise agree on a grace period shorter than six (6) months.
No interest on interest, penalties, fees, or other charges shall be imposed on the borrower during the grace period.
c. Deferment of loan payments for agricultural loans. Banks are encouraged to grant deferment of loan payments for all agricultural loans classified as current prior to the inception date of the calamity. For borrowers directly engaged in crop production activities, loan payments may be deferred, and repayment terms may be adjusted to align with the production cycle of the affected crop. The deferment period may begin on the inception date of the calamity and shall range from six (6) to twelve (12) months, depending on the bank’s historical experience and assessment of the affected borrowers.
Banks may also use the actual production cycle or crop rehabilitation period as basis for deferment, drawing from studies, available data, or guidance issued by relevant government agencies, research institutions, or industry associations. Longer deferment periods may be granted, on a case-by-case basis, based on bank’s assessment of calamities’ impact including the extent of damage to agricultural infrastructure, and borrower-specific conditions that may affect production and rehabilitation timelines. The same basis or sources of information may also be used to defer loan payments for borrowers in the fisheries and livestock sectors. Such extensions should be properly documented, including the sources of data or basis of information and rationale used in the determination.
Banks may extend similar relief measures to borrowers in the agricultural value chain located in declared affected areas, subject to bank’s verification of their linkage to affected production activities, assessment of calamity impact, and proper documentation and justification of the relief granted.
No interest on interest, penalties, fees, or other charges shall be imposed on the borrower during the deferment period.
d. Waiver of documentary requirements for loan restructuring. For loans covered under Items “b” and “c” of this Section on Regulatory relief package for all banks, Bangko Sentral documentary requirements for restructuring of loans provided under Item “d” of Sec. 143 (Credit workout and remedial management of problem credits) may be waived by banks, subject to their implementation of appropriate and prudent operational control measures.
e. Temporary exclusion from past due and non-performing loan computations Banks may exclude the loans of borrowers who were adversely impacted by calamities in declared affected areas, from the computation of past due and non-performing loan ratios upon the grant of a temporary grace period for payment or restructuring. This exclusion shall apply to loans that would otherwise be reclassified as past due or non-performing under Sec. 304 (Accounts considered past due) and Sec. 304 (Accounts considered non-performing), respectively, starting from the inception date of the calamity and including loans becoming past due or non-performing six (6) months thereafter. The exclusion shall remain in effect for a period of one (1) year from the inception date of the calamity. For agricultural loans, the exclusion may extend beyond one (1) year, aligned with the deferment period granted, subject to proper documentation and justification. The adjusted past due and non-performing loans shall be used for supervisory purposes, including the determination of a bank’s compliance with minimum prudential requirements set by the Bangko Sentral during the regulatory relief period. However, banks shall continue to report the actual past due and non-performing loans in the prudential reports [e.g., Financial Reporting Package (FRP), Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) report] for prudential purposes.
Accordingly, banks shall maintain comprehensive record of accounts that are excluded from past due or non-performing loans classifications. Such records shall include, but not limited to, information on the amount granted, outstanding balance, industry classification, original and revised loan terms, status of the account, and details of any collateral provided, where applicable.
f. Relaxation of notification requirements related to changes in banking days and hours. In case a bank situated in declared affected areas has to open outside, or close during, the banking hours or days reported to the Bangko Sentral, the submission of the written report required under Sec. 108 (Report of, and changes in, banking days and hours) shall be relaxed. In lieu thereof, the bank may promptly notify the appropriate supervising department of the Bangko Sentral of any changes to its banking schedule and operational status within twenty-four (24) hours of such change, or as soon as practicable depending on local circumstances, through e-mail and/or short message service (SMS).
g. Relaxation of notification requirements for temporary closure of bank branches and branch-lite units. The temporary closure of a bank’s branch or branchlite unit due to impacts of calamities shall not be subject to the notification requirements under Section 105 (Temporary closure, permanent closure and surrender of branch/branch‐lite unit license, and sale/acquisition of branches/ branch‐lite units): Provided, That the bank shall submit a consolidated list of the temporarily closed banking offices to the appropriate supervising department of the Bangko Sentral within five (5) calendar days from the inception date of the calamity. The list may be sent through e-mail and/or SMS.
Information on the temporary closure of such banking offices shall be posted on the bank's website, social media accounts, or mobile application, and displayed in conspicuous places in the premises of the affected branch or branch-lite unit, if the latter requirement is practicable. The notice of temporary closure may also be sent by the bank concerned to the depositors’ and other creditors’ last known e-mail address or contact number, using e-mail, text messages, or other alternative modes of communication, as may be elected by the client or practicable.
The temporary closure of such banking offices should not be longer than thirty (30) calendar days.
h. Deferment of deadline for opening approved bank branches or branch-lite units. Banks may defer the opening of approved bank branches or branch-lite units to be established in declared affected areas. Banks which opt to avail this relief must notify the appropriate supervising department of the Bangko Sentral within three (3) months from the inception date of the calamity. Such deferment shall not exceed three (3) years from the date of Bangko Sentral approval of the establishment of the branch or branch-lite unit, consistent with Sec. 105 (Opening of branches/branch-lite units)
For Thrift Banks (TBs)/Rural Banks (RBs)/Cooperative Banks (Coop Banks)
a. Waiver of monetary penalties for delayed submission of supervisory reports. No monetary penalties shall be imposed for delays incurred in the submission of all supervisory reports that are due to be submitted from the inception date of the calamity and up to six (6) months thereafter.
b. Staggered booking of allowance for credit losses. Subject to the evaluation and prior approval of the Bangko Sentral, banks may request the staggered booking of allowance for credit losses computed under Sec. 143 (Credit classification and Provisioning). This measure may be applied over a maximum period of three (3) years for all types of credits extended to individuals and businesses adversely impacted by calamities in declared affected areas as of the inception date of the calamity.
Banks shall adhere to the principles and guidelines on sound credit risk management set out under Sec. 143 as well as Appendices 15 and 100 regarding the measurement of credit losses. Before applying for the staggered booking of allowance for credit losses, a robust assessment must be conducted. Banks shall thoroughly evaluate the impact of the calamity on borrowers concerned in declared affected areas on an individual account basis. If a granular assessment is not feasible, this evaluation may be conducted collectively or at the portfolio level. Based on past events, current conditions and forecast information, TBs/RBs/ Coop Banks should assess whether cashflow issues of affected borrowers are only temporary or indicative of deeper financial deterioration.
For TBs/RBs/Coop Banks following the guidelines provided under Appendix 15 in setting up allowance for credit losses, the temporary grace period shall be excluded when calculating the number of days of missed loan payments. Accordingly, in determining the applicable percentage of minimum allowance for credit losses under Appendix 15, TBs/RBs/Coop Banks shall count the number of days unpaid/with missed payment based on the adjusted due date following the agreed-upon grace period, which effectively extends the due date of the loan. Classified loans of affected borrowers who availed of the temporary grace period or loan restructuring shall retain their classification and provisioning, and may only be upgraded once the borrower has demonstrated a satisfactory track record of at least six (6) consecutive payments of principal and interest, or where continued collection in accordance with the terms of the loan is expected and the loan meets the criteria for a lower classification, in accordance with Sec. 143 (Credit classification and provisioning)
Upon receipt of Bangko Sentral approval, TBs/RBs/Coop Banks shall immediately record the allowance for credit losses that should be recognized within the first year of the approved staggered period.
c. Staggered booking of impairment losses of banks’ physical assets. Physical assets such as banks premises, furniture, fixture and equipment, and real and other property acquired (ROPA) that have been impaired or are rendered economically unviable because of the adverse impact of calamities may be written down pursuant to Sec. 382 (Booking), subject to Bangko Sentral evaluation and prior approval. Such impairment losses may be booked on a staggered basis over a maximum period of three (3) years.
d. Waiver of penalties during moratorium on monthly payments. Banks undergoing rehabilitation may avail themselves of a moratorium, without penalty, on monthly payments due to the Bangko Sentral, for a period of six (6) months from the inception date of the calamity, upon filing an application for extension/rescheduling with the Department of Loans and Credit.
For All Rediscounting Banksx
a. Grace period for rediscounting obligations. Rediscounting banks may apply for a sixty (60)-day grace period to settle the outstanding rediscounting obligations with the Bangko Sentral as of the inception date of the calamity. This grace period applies to all rediscounting banks, x x x.
b. Restructuring of rediscounted loans. Rediscounting banks may restructure with the Bangko Sentral, on a case-to-case basis, the outstanding rediscounted loans as of the inception date of the calamity, of their borrowers affected by the calamity, x x x.
c. Relaxation of eligibility requirements. Rediscounting banks may avail the relaxation of eligibility requirements particularly the exclusion of the criteria on reserve requirement for the renewal of rediscounting line and the availment of rediscounting loans from the inception date of the calamity and up to six (6) months thereafter.
Notification and reportorial requirements
a. Notification for availment of regulatory relief. Banks that choose to avail of any relief measures under this Section on Regulatory relief package shall submit the following required documentation to their appropriate supervising department, with a copy furnished to the Department of Supervisory Analytics (DSA), on or after the inception date of the calamity, but prior to the implementation of any relief measures:
(1) Letter/Email notification from the President of the bank or officer of equivalent rank stating the bank’s intention to avail of the relief package. The notice shall specify, at a minimum, the specific relief measures to be availed, as well as the branches and branch-lite units in affected areas (refer to Annex B of Appendix 92);
(2) Resolution of the board of directors authorizing the bank to avail of the relief package;
(3) Memorandum Order/Proclamation/Resolution approving the declaration of state of calamity of the area where the affected head office/branches/branchlite units of bank or borrowers are located;
(4) Documentary proof substantiating the inception date of the calamity, as defined under this Section, including, but not limited to, official reports or correspondence issued by the NDRRMC, RDRRMC, LDRRMC, PAGASA, PHIVOLCS, or other relevant government agencies; and
(5) Additional supporting documents relevant to the approval of the staggered booking of allowance for credit losses and/or impairment losses of banks’ physical assets.
b. Supplemental FRP and CAR reports on regulatory relief. Banks shall electronically submit to the Department of Supervisory Analytics (DSA) a supplemental report on the availed regulatory relief measures. The supplemental report shall include information on eligible loans excluded from the computation of past due and non-performing loan ratios, as well as loans subject to Bangko Sentral-approved staggered booking of allowance for credit losses and/or impairment losses of banks’ physical assets using the prescribed forms (Annex C of Appendix 92) and submitted in accordance with the timeline for the Solo Financial Reporting Package and Capital Adequacy Report, in accordance with Appendix 7
c. Post-relief notification. Banks that avail of regulatory relief measures under this Section shall inform the Bangko Sentral of their action plans to return to full compliance with applicable regulatory requirements upon the expiration of the relief period. The notification, which shall be submitted to the appropriate supervising department of the Bangko Sentral within thirty (30) calendar days after one (1) year from the inception date of the calamity, shall include, at a minimum the following information:
(1) Compliance status: Adherence of availed relief measures to applicable regulatory requirements, including timelines and transition milestones of any remaining outstanding relief measures; and
(2) Risk mitigating and/or adaptive measures: Initiatives instituted or plans to be implemented during and after the relief period to safeguard the operations of the bank from the impacts of calamities. These measures may include enhancements to business continuity and disaster recovery frameworks, contingency funding strategies, and other measures designed to reduce operational vulnerabilities and support the bank’s capacity to adapt to evolving conditions in calamity-affected areas.
Relaxation of identification requirements. To facilitate access to financing channels during a declared state of calamity, any requirement for the presentation of valid identification card (ID) shall be temporarily relaxed, including for electronic or online financial transactions.
a. Duration of relaxation. The relaxation shall take effect upon the official declaration of the state of calamity and shall remain valid, as follows:
(1) Where the declaration of the state of calamity includes a specified duration, the relaxation shall remain in effect for the entire period indicated in the declaration.
(2) In cases where no duration is specified, the relaxation shall be deemed effective for a default period of three (3) months from the date of declaration. An extension of the relaxation period may be authorized by the Bangko Sentral, upon receipt of a formal request. Such extension shall be subject to a thorough assessment of the prevailing conditions in the affected areas and the merits of the justifications provided.
(3) Should the state of calamity be officially lifted prior to the expiration of the specified or default duration, the relaxation shall automatically cease on the date of such lifting.
b. Conditions for relaxed transactions. The relaxation of identification requirements shall apply for all financial transactions, except account opening, subject to the following conditions under Item “c” of Sec. 921 (Customer identification):
(1) The total amount of transactions shall not exceed P50,000.00 per day;
(2) The customer is either a permanent or temporary resident or who conducts business in a severely affected area which has been declared to be under a state of calamity by a competent authority;
(3) The customer shall submit a written certification, which need not be notarized, that he/she is a victim of the subject disastrous calamity and has lost his/her valid IDs; and
(4) The customer’s account activities shall be subject to strict monitoring by the covered person to identify potential abuse of the relaxed requirement and any suspicious transactions shall be reported to the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) within the prescribed period.
For purposes of account opening during a declared state of calamity, banks may apply existing regulations under: (1) Sec. 921 (Customer acceptance and identification policy) on restricted account to facilitate account creation for purposes of managing finances, including the distribution of financial assistance; and (2) Sec. 921 (Customer identification) on the use of Information and Communication Technology in the conduct of customer due diligence, such as online customer identification, electronic submission and receipt of identification documents, and electronic capture of biometric or other personal information of customers.
Temporary measure allowing currency withdrawals at Bangko Sentral Regional Offices and Branches (ROBs) by banks not registered with PhilPaSSPlus and/or not yet enrolled in the currency management system To ensure continued access to physical currency during declared states of calamity, the Bangko Sentral shall implement a temporary measure permitting banks that are not yet registered with PhilPaSSPlus and/or not yet enrolled in the currency management system of the Regional Operations Sub-Sector (ROSS) to directly withdraw currency from Bangko Sentral ROBs. This measure shall also be enforced during work suspensions caused by calamities, related events, or emergency situations that significantly disrupt normal banking operations.
This temporary measure, which is intended to provide operational flexibility to banks during emergency situations, shall be effective until 31 December 2027.
During the temporary arrangement period, banks that are not yet registered with PhilPaSSPlus and/or not yet enrolled in the currency management system of the ROSS are required to submit the following documents to the Office of the Assistant Governor – ROSS (OAG-ROSS) at the Bangko Sentral – Head Office:
1. One (1) original copy of notarized Secretary Certificate of the bank’s Board Resolution containing the following:
a. Delegation of authority to at least one (1) officer who shall be the authorized bank signatory for currency withdrawal transactions with the Bangko Sentral ROB concerned;
b. Delegation of authority to at least one (1) officer who shall authenticate the specimen signature cards; and
c. Setting of currency withdrawal limit/s of the authorized bank signatory/ies, including approval matrix, if any.
2. Two (2) sets of specimen signature cards containing the name/s, signature/s, and extent of signing authority of the authorized bank signatory/ies duly signed and authenticated by the designated officer/s of the bank. This document shall be consistent with the details in the Secretary Certificate.
The above documents shall be received by OAG-ROSS at least three (3) working days prior to the actual date of currency withdrawal. For efficiency, banks are encouraged to submit in advance the foregoing documents.
Banks are required to formally notify the concerned Bangko Sentral ROB of their intent to withdraw currency via email by no later than 4:00 PM on the business day preceding the scheduled withdrawal.
On the day of the currency withdrawal, banks shall present to the Bangko Sentral ROB the manually-prepared Cash Order Slip/s (COS)5 and Authority to Withdraw (ATW), both duly signed by authorized bank signatory/ies and bank representative. Withdrawal transactions are subject to applicable service fees and penalty, as prescribed under Sec. 1103.
In accordance with Sec. 147, banks availing of this temporary arrangement shall ensure that all currency withdrawal transactions are conducted in line with their Board-approved Security Program. This shall include contingency measures for security and rescue operations during calamities and emergencies, covering secure transport arrangements for funds and other cash items, the provision of cash-in-transit insurance coverage, as appropriate, and coordination with law enforcement and emergency response agencies, when necessary.
To safeguard the integrity and security of currency withdrawal transactions conducted under this temporary arrangement, the Bangko Sentral reserves the right to impose additional documentation or procedural requirements as necessary.
Supervisory Enforcement Action. x x x
Section 2. Transitory Provision. The provision below shall be added as a footnote to Item “b” of Section 1151 of the MORB (Regulatory relief package) on Staggered booking of allowance for credit losses.
Banks with approved staggered booking of allowance for credit losses and/or impairment losses of banks’ physical assets over a maximum period of five (5) years shall continue to book such in accordance with the approved five (5)-year schedule.
Section 3. Appendix 7 of the MORB on the Reports Required of Banks is hereby amended, as shown in Annex B of this Circular, to incorporate the submission of Supplemental Financial Reporting Package (FRP) and Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) reports in relation to availed regulatory relief measures. Specific guidelines on the mode and manner of electronic submission of such reports shall be covered by a separate issuance.
Section 4. Under Appendix 84 of the MORB, all cash withdrawals at Bangko Sentral ROBs are required to be processed exclusively through the currency management platform. In line with the Bangko Sentral’s digitalization efforts and the full implementation of the currency management system across all Bangko Sentral ROBs, banks are expected to transition to full compliance with the currency management system-based procedures on or before the lapse of the temporary arrangement period provided in Section 1 of this Circular.
Specific guidelines pertaining to the following shall be covered by a separate issuance:
1. Servicing of currency withdrawal at Bangko Sentral ROBs by banks that are not yet registered with PhilPaSSPlus and/or not yet enrolled in the currency management system of the ROSS; and 2. Adoption of the ROSS currency management system, including PhilPaSSPlus registration, system integration, and capacity building for bank personnel.
Section 5. This Circular shall take effect fifteen (15) calendar days following its publication either in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.
FOR THE MONETARY BOARD: (Sgd) ELI M. REMOLONA, JR. Governor 23 October 2025
5 Soft copy of the form shall be provided by the Bangko Sentral ROB concerned.
Changsha’s ‘Star City’ AI tour spotlights advanced robotics
By Julie Ann Lope
CHANGSA, China – This city is fast emerging as a national hub for artificial intelligence, with local companies showcasing advanced robotics, AIdriven e-commerce and large-scale smart manufacturing during the 2025 Overseas Media Tour of the Star City.
Changsha is one of ten cities in China to hold dual national designations as an AI Innovation and Development Pilot Zone and an Innovation and Application Frontrunner Area, a status underscored by its twelfth-place ranking on the 2024 China Artificial Intelligence City Competitiveness List.
Delegates visited several leading enterprises from Oct. 25 to 29, witnessing the deep integration of AI into various sectors.
Hunan Blinx Technology Co. Ltd. (Blinx Tech), a leader in robotics, demonstrated its latest products. R&D manager Xiao Wei noted that following the success of its sixaxis robots, the company recently launched a new six-axis collaborative robot.
This robot integrates AI large model technology to deliver industrial-grade performance, featuring expansion interfaces for flexible integration of vision, voice and sensors, making it adaptable for research, manufacturing and smart production lines.
Blinx Tech also showcased the humanoid robot X1, which is equipped with a seven-degrees-offreedom (seven-DOF) arm, advanced perception, and mobility, allowing it to autonomously perform complex tasks and interpret ambiguous instructions
PH
to
eVisa
relaunch
to attract Chinese visitors
By Michael Wong Ho
THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) has voiced strong support for the Philippines’ plan to relaunch its eVisa program for Chinese nationals in November 2025. The move aims to strengthen people-to-people exchange, facilitate trade and tourism and reverse a significant drop in Chinese visitor arrivals since 2019.
The Philippine Embassy in Beijing announced that the eVisa applications would be available again starting November 2025 for travelers from mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau.
Tourists from these regions will be able to apply for a 14-day, nonrenewable tourist or business visa. Entry is restricted to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Metro Manila or the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
FFCCCII president Victor Lim described the resumption as a “strong, powerful and positive signal” that the Philippine government is ready to welcome a new wave of Chinese visitors.
Lim expressed full support for the initiative, calling it a late but “extremely necessary measure” that could deliver significant economic benefits and reshape regional competition. He cited the importance of opening the country’s doors to foreigners as an essential move toward economic prosperity and regional cooperation.
Lim also warned that failure to actively attract foreign tourists could result in missed economic and diplomatic opportunities, noting that neighboring ASEAN nations have been more proactive in their efforts.
China was the second-largest source of foreign tourists to the Philippines, with about 1.7 million Chinese visitors in 2019. However, in the first nine months of 2025, only 204,000 Chinese tourists visited the country, far below the target of 2 million.
across industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and commercial services.
In the realm of creativity and e-commerce, Hunan Sijiu Technology leverages AI for personalized manufacturing. The company offers DIY creative tools that allow users to produce customized apparel, accessories, and home decor, providing a low-cost, highefficiency production solution for small entrepreneurs and individual consumers.
Since entering international markets via the Changsha Cross-Border E-Commerce Pilot Zone, Sijiu has expanded onto global platforms, including Amazon, maintaining leading sales positions across nine major international e-commerce platforms and its three self-operated official websites, supporting the Hunan Products Going Global initiative.
The city’s healthcare sector is also seeing major AI advancements.
AthenaEyes C., Ltd. has pioneered AI-driven Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnostics, reducing assessment time from hours to just three minutes.
Its Bian Shi device uses sensors, computer vision, and AI models to analyze facial features, tongue condition, and pulse signals—
mirroring the diagnostic processes of a seasoned TCM practitioner with eight years of clinical experience. The device can identify over 300 common and chronic diseases, with the company’s self-developed Bian Shi Medical Large Language Model (MLLM) serving as its foundational technology.
Hotone Audio employs AI algorithms to develop digital sound modeling technologies for its music electronics. Its flagship effects processors, like the Ampero II Stage, utilize proprietary highdefinition modeling and impulse response technologies. Hotone’s Deep Learning-Based Electronic Audio Data Processing method uses AI to optimize audio and accurately recreate classic guitar tones through digital algorithms. Its products are
now exported to more than 100 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia. Changsha’s intelligent manufacturing capabilities are exemplified by Zoomlion’s Smart Industrial City. The highly-automated facility utilizes over 90-percent automation in manufacturing processes, with industrial robots and autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs) enhancing productivity.
The site produces a digger every six minutes, an aerial work platform every 7.5 minutes, and a mobile crane every 18 minutes. The park, which includes four main host parks and a key components center, integrates technologies such as intelligent production scheduling, industrial AI, and digital twins to achieve fully intelligent production.
ASEAN journalists tour Changsha for cultural, tech ties
and
CHANGSHA, China—Journalists from nine ASEAN countries and media creators from the United Kingdom and Nigeria concluded a five-day overseas media tour of Star City in Changsha, Hunan province, China on Oct. 29, 2025.
The event promoted deeper cultural, technological and tourism partnerships between Changsha and the participating nations.
The tour, organized by the Publicity Department of the CPC Changsha Municipal Committee and the China News Service Hunan Branch, brought media representatives from the Philippines—Julie Ann Lope of the Manila Standard, Rainier Allan Ronda of The Philippine Star and
Ang Chua of the Chinese Commercial News—along with delegates from Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Creators from Nigeria and Britain also took part.
Changsha, a major transportation hub along China’s Belt and Road Initiative, showcased its rapid urban development, rich history and innovative industries.
The city, designated a UNESCO City of Media Arts in 2017, is also recognized as China’s Most Investment-Attractive City. Delegates explored the city’s economic landscape, which features strong industrial clusters in sectors like automobiles, electronic information
and new materials.
A highlight of the visit was the Liuyang International Fireworks Festival, featuring displays from the United States, Japan and four European countries. Liuyang, the globally known birthplace of fireworks, accounts for 70 percent of China’s total fireworks exports, which were valued at RMB 50 billion in 2024. The city currently hosts 431 fireworks and firecrackers manufacturing enterprises.
The group also explored cuttingedge technological industries, visiting prominent local companies.
These included Hunan Bilinxing Technology Co. Ltd., a specialist in intelligent robotics; Hunan Sijiu Technology Co. Ltd., known for innovative printing and laser engraving machines; AthenaEyes, an AI healthcare enterprise; Hotone Audio, which develops professional musical instruments; and Zoomlion, one of the world’s top 50 construction equipment manufacturers. Stops also included the Malanshan Audio and Video Laboratory and Chaoneng Robot Technology.
Cultural and scenic stops included the Xiangjiang New Area City Museum, the Orange Isle Scenic Area—famous for its association with Mao Zedong—and historic sites like Yuelu Academy, one of China’s Four Great Academies and the Changsha Tongguan Kiln Site, the birthplace of multicolored ceramics.
50 immigration officers complete Mandarin course
FIFTY Bureau of Immigration (BI) officers have completed a basic Mandarin language course aimed at improving communication with Chinese tourists and investors at various ports and airports across the country.
The online training program, which began in August and spanned 60 hours of instruction over two-hour sessions twice a week, was a collaboration between the Chinese Embassy in Manila, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) Overseas Chinese Legal Assistance Center and Chiang Kai Shek College’s Language Center.
THE Leyte Kalipayan Dance Company (LKDC), a renowned Filipino cultural troupe, captivated audiences at the 14th China-ASEAN Music Festival in Nanning, China, from Oct. 24 to 29, 2025.
The performance, which showcased the rich diversity of Filipino dance and music, reinforced the diplomatic and cultural ties between the Philippines and China as the nations celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations.
The 21-member group from Eastern Visayas delivered a vibrant array of traditional Filipino arts, ranging from Spanish-era dances and indigenous rituals to Mindanao’s pangalay and singkil. Led by Melissa Montilla, the troupe performed in colorful, handmade costumes to live accompaniment featuring traditional instruments such as the kulintang, bamboo flutes, gongs, drums, and string instruments.
The performance also featured heartfelt Waray songs and a culturally significant rendition of the Chinese classic “The Moon Represents My Heart.”
Hosted by Guangxi Arts University, the festival aimed to foster artistic collaboration and cultural understanding among ASEAN countries and China. Michael Wong Ho
The graduation ceremony was held on Oct. 16 at the Federation Building.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado expressed gratitude to the Chinese Embassy and FFCCCII for the valuable opportunity, emphasizing that learning Mandarin will enable officers to communicate more effectively, thereby improving the visitor experience and fostering better cooperation.
FFCCCII president Victor Lim congratulated the graduates, underscoring that the officers’ newfound language skills would help bridge cultural differences and facilitate better engagements with Chinese tourists and investors. Michael Wong Ho
The officers, now equipped with basic conversational Mandarin skills, will be deployed to enhance their interactions with Chinese visitors.
CHANGSHA, China—Jinjing Town in Changsha County, Hunan Province is driving its local economy by strategically integrating its rich tea culture with innovative tourism, as highlighted during the 2025 Overseas Media Tour of the Star City in Changsha. The town has adopted a village-enterprise codevelopment model in collaboration with major local tea companies, Jinjing Tea and Xiangfeng Tea, to blend tea production with unique visitor experiences. A key attraction is the newly-opened Tea & Cosmos Observatory, which houses the largest
telescope open to the public
China’s five central-southern provinces. Mayor of Jinjing Town Liu Wei said, “By day, they can savor tea, visit the nearby tiger park, or try paragliding. By night, they can stargaze, barbecue, or camp.” Visitors can engage with professional telescopes to observe sunspots and view meteorite specimens, and even experience virtual moon landings via VR technology, according to Party Secretary of Jinjing Town Zou Zilong. Julie Ann Lope
Changsha showcases its growth as an AI hub during a media tour, highlighting innovations in robotics (Blinx Tech), e-commerce (Sijiu Technology), AI-driven TCM diagnostics (AthenaEyes) and intelligent manufacturing (Zoomlion Smart Industrial City).
Wesley
Journalists from nine ASEAN countries, including the Philippines, tour Changsha, China, for five days to boost cultural, technology and tourism collaboration, visiting UNESCO sites
major industrial and tech companies like Zoomlion and AI firms.
Filipino cultural troupe Leyte Kalipayan Dance Company (LKDC) performs at the 14th China-ASEAN Music Festival in Nanning, China, reinforcing diplomatic and cultural ties between the Philippines and China as they celebrate 50 years of relations.
Fifty Bureau of Immigration officers complete a basic Mandarin language course, initiated by the Chinese Embassy and FFCCCII, to improve
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
Touchbass
Yugel Losorata
Sensational showbiz
deaths
DEATH is a big subject regardless of who died. But when a showbiz personality goes six feet under, there’s a tendency for the discussion to get juicier.
Curiously, the more sensational the death of a celebrity is, the closer it can get to the corner of the macabre, to the thrill of the spooky. It’s Halloween weekend, and it’s not a bad time to look back quickly at some of Philippine showbiz’s most-talkedabout deaths—those that had shock value enough to somehow overshadow their colorful run when they were alive. That’s not disrespecting their legend; it’s just that the nature of their deaths appears too interesting for us not to revisit every once in a while, even if each passing of its details can sometimes lead to it being altered and becoming gossipy.
If we’d rank these sensational demises, we’ll give the cup to how backward society made the death of teenage star Julie Vega look as if there was something paranormal behind it. She died on the 6th of May, 1985, from cardiac arrest secondary to bronchopneumonia. It was later found out she had a demyelinating disease.
But according to hearsay, the townsfolk at Mount Manalmon in San Miguel, Bulacan, believed she had been possessed by bad spirits—that a duwende or an engkanto took her life. This had to do with the film she last appeared in, Lovingly Yours, Helen (The Movie), which was shot there. Her condition reportedly worsened after she completed work for that film.
In the four-part anthology, Vega starred in the episode Akin Ang Walang Diyos, where she played the role of Idda, who is possessed by evil spirits. That episode itself is remarkable, and the whole thing ranks among the scariest sequences in Philippine filmdom. Knowing that Vega died after shooting the film makes it creepier. She may have been best known for the soap opera Ana Liza, but her turn as a possessed teenage girl could rival even that of Linda Blair’s performance in The Exorcist If Vega’s death spelled fear, Nida Blanca’s murder cried foul. She was beaten, stabbed 13 times, and found in her car in the parking lot of the Atlanta Centre building in Greenhills, San Juan.
The prime suspect was Blanca’s husband, Rod Strunk identified by prosecutors as the one who hired a hitman to kill his wife so he could be entitled to a portion of her inheritance. He was not in the Philippines at the time of the murder. At some point, he was detained but was released after the U.S. court denied the extradition request against him. Then Strunk jumped from a second-floor balcony six years after Blanca’s death. His conscience probably knew why he did it.
Very Wang Nickie Wang
That redefinition lies at the heart of the musical, which explores identity and class through humor, emotion, and music.
Geneva Cruz joins the ensemble as Liwayway, a mysterious but uplifting figure who serves as the rakistas ’ spiritual guide.
“She brings light to their darkness,” Cruz said. “Liwai isn’t a typical muse — she’s nurturing, edgy, and represents safe spaces.”
The singer-actress, who rose to fame as part of Smokey Mountain, said the role reflects her own journey. “We don’t need to be famous to do something good,” she said. “What matters is staying true to who we are.”
Featuring songs such as “Laki sa Layaw (Jeproks),” “No Touch,” “Ang Himig Natin,” and “Nanggigigil,” the show pays tribute to the golden age of Pinoy rock while connecting it to the present.
‘Jeproks: The Musical’ revisits the soul of Pinoy rock
DIRECTOR
Frannie Zamora clarified that Jeproks: The Musical, which draws inspiration from the music of Filipino rock icon Mike Hanopol , is not a biographical work.
“It’s not Mike’s story,” Zamora said. “But it’s a story about rakistas (rockers) like him, real artists with real struggles and real dreams.” Set in the 1970s but told through a modern lens, the production follows three bandmates chasing the rock-and-roll dream while dealing with friendship, family, and fate. “Even if the world looks different now, the soul, the emotions, the confusion, they’re all still the same,” Zamora said.
The cast features David Ezra as Mico, Hidalgo as Willy, and Nino Alejandro the rakistas at the heart of the story. Alejandro’s character is inspired by the late Pepe Smith and the role resonated deeply with him.
“There are parts of the script that just felt too real,” said Alejandro, nephew of OPM legend Hadji Alejandro . “Moments of friction with your bandmates, the grind of gig-hopping, the fear of fading out, I’ve lived all that.”
Two noted recording artists, Teddy Diaz of The Dawn and Cesar Banares of Asin, were also murdered. Diaz was only 25 in 1988 when he was knifeattacked during a robbery. He was the composer behind “Enveloped Ideas,” which catapulted The Dawn to fame.
The founding member of the folk band Asin was shot inside a KTV bar in Koronadal, South Cotabato, in 1993. He was the voice-writer behind the classic “Ang Bayan Kong Sinilangan.” A lawyer and his two aides were convicted of the crime.
For Alejandro, the term “jeprox” has evolved over time. “It used to mean ‘rebel’ or ‘anti-establishment,’ but now it’s deeper—about resilience and the Filipino drive to keep going,” he said.
Zamora said the production aims to reach a new generation. “The young today may not know these songs, but they know the feelings behind them,” he said. “It’s for anyone finding their voice, building their dreams, and searching for light.”
Jeproks: The Musical runs at the
and
Nov.
Actor Jess Lapid was also shot dead inside a nightclub, but in Quezon City, further back in 1968.
Rico Yan’s untimely passing in 2002 from acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis remains one of the most mourned tragedies in Philippine showbiz
He is the uncle of action star-turned-politician Lito Lapid
The lives of starlets Claudia Zobel and Pepsi Paloma were also cut short in dramatic fashion. Zobel died in a car accident. The shocking front-page news of her death remains vivid in my head. I was a kid who picked up a newspaper copy and saw it. Paloma was found hanging in her apartment the same month Vega died. It was implied that the alleged rape she suffered from some co-celebrities was a factor in her hurting herself. She was 18. The deaths of matinee idols Alfie Anido and Rico Yan were also newsmakers. The former died of a gunshot wound on his 22nd birthday; the latter passed away in 2002 from acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis.
Yan’s death—thanks to his apparent good deeds that were only known after he was gone—made him more beloved and earned him many tributes. The song “Warrior Is a Child” became a staple in funerals after Gary Valenciano sang it for the late actor, who, as revealed, informed his handler that it be played at his final memorial service.
These celebrities had become ingrained in public consciousness essentially because of the lives they led, but even more so because of the scenarios surrounding their deaths.
By Jasper Valdez
ACTOR Raymart Santiago has spoken up for the first time about the renewed allegations made by Inday Barretto, the mother of his estranged wife, Claudine Barretto
In a statement shared on Instagram on Monday, Raymart said he struggled for days before deciding to speak publicly.
Ilang araw ko rin pinag-isipan kung kailangan ko pa bang personal na magsalita ,” he wrote, adding that while he preferred to stay quiet, he needed to share his side “ para sa aking kapayapaan .”
The actor addressed the serious accusations of abuse and harassment made against him, calling them false.
“ Hindi man naging perpekto ang aming pagsasama, malinaw sa aking konsensya na kailanman ay hindi ko nagawa o magagawa ang mga paratang nila ,” he said.
Raymart also expressed disappointment toward Inday, whom he once considered a second mother.
Nakakadismaya dahil kung makapagsalita ang iba ay akala mong naging bahagi sila ng aming buhay,” he wrote, adding that her recent statements deeply saddened him.
He ended his message by urging the public to avoid comments that could harm their families and children, saying he would let time and truth reveal everything.
“ Mas pipiliin ko pa rin ang respeto at ipaubaya sa panahon na siyang humusg a,” he concluded.
addresses
Raymart Santiago
the allegations made by Inday Barretto, his ex-wife’s mother
Julie Vega’s mysterious death in 1985 continues to stir conversations among fans and paranormal enthusiasts
Nino Alejandro takes on the role of Paolo, a character inspired by the late Pepe Smith, in ‘Jeproks: The Musical’
GSIS Theater on Roxas Boulevard from
20 to 23
Nov. 27 to 29. Presented by Tanghalang Una Obra in partnership with The Hammock
Productions, Inc. and Twin Bill Theater, it is written by Nick Pichay , directed by Zamora, and musically directed by Joed Balsamo Tickets are
Geneva Cruz portrays Liwayway, a free-spirited figure who guides the rakistas on their journey
LIFE & SHOWBIZ
By Jasper Valdez
THERE was a time when Mika Salamanca her mind without thinking twice. But after her stint in Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab reality show alumna learned that fame comes with responsibility—and that words, once spoken, can follow you for life.
The content creator turned actress, now the first-ever endorser of J Spray Perfume, shared how navigating public life has taught her to think before she speaks and stay grounded. For Mika, authenticity has become a guiding principle both online and off.
“I make sure that whatever statement I release is true to me,” Mika said. “Because in the future, when someone brings it up again, you should still be able to stand by it.”
That mindset reflects how much she’s grown since leaving Kuya’s house. While fans still see the same warmth and energy that made her a favorite on the show, Mika now approaches her career with more self-awareness and purpose.
“The way I think now won’t be the same as before, and that’s the beauty of it,” she added. “What matters is that you stay genuine.”
That sense of growth and sincerity hasn’t gone unnoticed. For Mika, opportunities now come not
just because of fame but because people see the person behind it.
The partnership with J Spray Perfume, made official on Oct. 3 at Noctos Music Bar in Quezon City, stood out to her because it wasn’t just about image.
“I just realized they went without an ambassador or a face for the brand for eight years, and they’re still strong,” she said. “It means they didn’t need me, but they still chose me, and that means a lot.”
Mika is also venturing into new territory with her first Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) movie, Mother as a comedy with heart.
“This is my first-ever
SAPPE Beauti Drink, Thailand’s leading functional juice brand, has launched in the Philippines, offering a convenient way to stay refreshed while supporting wellness and beauty.
Produced by SAPPE Public Company Limited, the same company behind Mogu Mogu, Beauti Drink is designed for women balancing busy routines while maintaining their health and confidence. Each bottle combines sciencebacked ingredients with a light, refreshing taste to suit different lifestyle needs.
The product line includes CollaSkin, which contains 2,000 mg of Japanese collagen along with vitamins C and E and zinc to help improve skin brightness and elasticity. S-Lim features 8,000 mg of fiber and L-carnitine to aid metabolism and digestion, while BeautiTox blends chlorophyll, curcumin, zinc, fiber, and L-glutathione to cleanse and restore balance
Mika Salamanca learns that authenticity outlasts hype
movie and my first MMFF,” she said. “I’m very happy and excited about it. It’s funny, but it’s also touching.
Even while reading the script, I cried because there’s so much to learn from it—for both the children and
Even with her busy schedule, Mika finds ways to turn her influence into something meaningful. She said she’s been inspired to do good, especially when she meets people whose stories remind her why she
One of those moments happened at the National Children’s Hospital in Quezon City during a visit organized by the Little Ark Foundation, where a young cancer patient thanked her for giving him a copy of her book Lipad
“That moment reminded me of why I do what I do,” she said. “Yes, I work for myself and my family, but also for the kids and people I try to help. If I can use my platform to give attention to things like that, I will.”
As for what keeps her motivated, Mika remains thankful for every opportunity that comes her way. “I can’t ask for more,” she said with a smile.
“I’m thankful for the brands that trust me, for the steady work, and for my family. I always think that when you’re working on your birthday, it means you’ll have work all year round.”
Balancing all these roles hasn’t been easy, but Mika seems to have found her rhythm, more mindful now of what “I can’t ask for more,” she said once more with a grin. “As long as I’m working and learning, that’s already a blessing.”
Why you shouldn’t miss McDonald’s Stripes Run 2025
MCDONALD’S Philippines is inviting families, friends, and fitness enthusiasts to take part in this year’s Stripes Run 2025, happening on Dec. 7 at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds.
Now in its 14th year, the annual fun run encourages participants of all ages, including kids and pets, to come together for wellness and charity. Proceeds will benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines, which supports programs that improve access to education and healthcare for Filipino children.
from within. BeautiEyes, on the other hand, is formulated with vitamins A, B, B6, C, and E, and antioxidant-rich goji berry to help protect and refresh tired eyes from daily screen exposure.
“Beauti Drink was created to make beauty simple and within reach,” the Beauti Drink team said in a statement. “Each bottle is a small act of self-care—something you can enjoy anytime, anywhere.”
Beauti Drink is now available in select convenience stores, including 7-Eleven, Mercury Drug, Watsons, and Uncle John’s, priced between P60 and P65. It can also be purchased online through Shopee and Lazada.
The launch highlights SAPPE’s goal of making wellness both functional and enjoyable, encouraging consumers to find simple ways to “shine like a beauty queen” through everyday self-care.
Thailand’s wellness beverage enters PH market with refreshing twist
This year’s event offers participants race kits that include a shirt, bib, socks, tote bag, and other items from partner brands. Finishers will also receive freebies, giveaways, and, for the first time, an official Stripes Run medal. The Stripes Run is a non-competitive event open to runners of all fitness levels. Whether
walking, jogging, or sprinting, participants are encouraged to focus on fun, health, and togetherness.
Registration is available online at https:// bit.ly/McDonaldsStripesRun2025, where participants can select their race category, shirt size, and pay via GCash, GrabPay, or debit and credit card. Race kits can be delivered directly to participants’ homes.
The Stripes Run 2025 continues McDonald’s effort to promote wellness and community engagement through events that bring people together for a cause.
and
The McDonald’s Stripes Run encourages fun, fitness,
togetherness among runners of all ages
Beauti Drink brand executives celebrate the launch of Thailand’s leading functional beverage in the Philippines
Mika Salamanca (third from left) joins JSpray executives during her contract signing as the brand’s first-ever endorser
PBB Celebrity Collab big winner
Mika Salamanca shares how staying authentic has guided her growth as a content creator and actress
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
Skincare retailer unwraps a season of joy
THE Body Shop is bringing back the warmth and generosity of the holidays with its 2025 Christmas collection, “Wrapped in Love.”
Launching today, Oct. 30, the collection celebrates nearly five decades of the brand’s commitment to ethical beauty and meaningful giving.
Leading the lineup is the Classic Beauty Advent Calendar, a festive favorite filled with shower gels, shampoos, sheet masks, balms, butters, and body scrubs, a joyful countdown to Christmas designed for every beauty lover.
This year’s holiday range also introduces three new limited-edition scents that capture the spirit of the season: Caramel Cuddle, Cranberry Crush, and Sugarplum Passion.
Caramel Cuddle is a cozy blend of golden caramel, creamy vanilla, and toasted almond—a sweet treat that includes a Bath & Shower Gel, Body Butter, Body Yogurt, and Hand Balm.
Cranberry Crush delivers a lively burst of frosted cranberry, blood orange, and mint leaves for a refreshing and zesty holiday pick-me-up, available in the same four formats.
Meanwhile, Sugarplum Passion takes on a more whimsical tone with its mix of plum sorbet, raspberry, and pink grapefruit, accented by apricot blossom and magnolia, offering a fruity-floral escape that feels like Christmas magic in a jar.
Each range is made with The Body Shop’s signature natural-origin ingredients and Community Fair Trade partnerships, ensuring every purchase gives back. From aloe vera sourced from Mexico to almond milk from Spain and shea butter from Ghana, every product supports local producers and communities around the world.
Founded in 1976 by Dame Anita Roddick in Littlehampton, England, The Body Shop has built a global reputation for its advocacydriven approach to beauty, anchored on five core values: Against Animal Testing, Support Community Fair Trade, Activate Self-Esteem, Defend Human Rights, and Support the Planet.
AT THE first-ever TikTok Beauty Fest Philippines held in Bonifacio Global City, Dermorepubliq led creators, dermatologists, and beauty enthusiasts in exploring how science and local realities shape skincare for Filipinos.
The event marked TikTok’s expansion from digital content into real-world beauty education, encouraging discussions that go beyond trends and viral routines.
One of the most engaging sessions focused on a familiar concern among Filipinos—sensitive skin—and the science behind it.
“For years, ‘hiyang’ has been
Alex Gonzaga f inds hope for pregnancy in locally abundant healing grass
By Nickie Wang
ALEX Gonzaga has always been open about her personal life, including her struggles with pregnancy. The actress and content creator revealed that she suffered three miscarriages in 2021, 2023, and 2024.
Despite the heartbreak, Alex said she has found comfort and renewed hope through a wellness routine centered on Chef Ayb’s Paragis, a local herbal tea brand with which she now partners.
“Before, my menstrual cycle was irregular due to stress and frequent travel. When I started drinking Chef Ayb’s Paragis, my cycle became regular,” Alex shared. “Eventually, I got pregnant.
Even though I had miscarriages, it made me believe that I’m capable of getting pregnant.”
The 37-year-old said Paragis tea has helped improve her overall well-being, easing her anxiety and improving her sleep. Her husband, Mikee Morada , also takes the tea to help manage his blood pressure.
Chef Ayb , the founder of the Filipino wellness brand, said that the product is rooted in the healing properties of the Paragis grass. Known for its detoxifying, antiinflammatory, and antioxidant benefits, Paragis has become central to her advocacy for natural healing and well-being.
It all began in 2017, when Chef Ayb witnessed how Paragis helped relieve her grandmother’s arthritis symptoms. Moved by this experience, she explored the grass’s medicinal qualities and eventually made it her mission to raise awareness about its life-changing effects.
Her passion for holistic health led to the creation of Chef Ayb’s Paragis, with each tea bag crafted to preserve the natural essence of Paragis while delivering a smooth and rich flavor. Eight years later, the brand has grown
the measure of whether a product works. But skin compatibility isn’t just luck, it’s also chemistry,” said Maria Gabrielle Lim, marketing director of Dermorepubliq. She noted that many Filipinos still judge skincare based on how “matapang” or harsh a product feels, when the real issue often lies in formulation and skin sensitivity.
Dermatologist Dr. Jaja Lao-Ang explained that Filipino skin’s higher melanin content offers partial UV protection but also increases the risk of hyperpigmentation and irritation.
“Because of these factors, even if we have more pigment, we still
into a trusted name in natural wellness, offering safe, simple, and affordable health solutions for Filipinos.
“I always make sure that every Chef Ayb’s Paragis product is of high quality because we want our customers to have a safe and enjoyable journey to wellness,” said Chef Ayb. “Our mission is to raise awareness that in every tea bag crafted by our team, there’s a potential to improve your health and wellness.”
To further her advocacy for natural healing, Chef Ayb has partnered with actress Alex whose personal health journey aligns with the brand’s purpose.
“I always make sure that every Chef Ayb’s Paragis product is of high quality because we want customers to have a safe and enjoyable journey to wellness,” said Chef Ayb.
With Alex as her new business partner and Mikee Morada as ambassador, Chef Ayb hopes to reach more Filipinos who are exploring natural ways to take care of their health.
“The partnership between Chef Ayb and me is very collaborative,” Alex said. “We share the same goal—to make healthy options available and accessible to everyone.”
Experts promote science-based skincare for Filipino consumers
need consistent sun protection,” she said. “Sunscreen is essential whether you’re outdoors or indoors.”
A 2025 report by Galderma found that the Philippines leads Southeast Asia in cases of sensitive skin, which dermatologists link to the country’s humid climate, pollution, and genetic predisposition. The
discussion reflected a growing shift in Filipino skincare—from anecdotal “hiyang” beliefs to science-based understanding. Dr. Lao-Ang also highlighted the rise of “skin minimalism,” a movement favoring fewer but targeted products to maintain the skin barrier. “The biggest misconception I see is
that more products mean better skin,” she said. “Our skin barrier is delicate. The smarter approach is using fewer products that your skin can actually tolerate.”
At the same session, Dermorepubliq research and development lead Aika Vargas emphasized that consumer feedback plays a key role in the brand’s formulations. “Formulating skincare is not just about mixing actives—it’s about listening,” she said. “When users say a product feels too strong or sticky, that feedback goes straight to the lab.”
Dermorepubliq, which serves as TikTok Shop Philippines’ top skincare brand, used its role as the festival’s official sponsor to promote skin literacy and science-driven conversations.
“Our mission has always been to help Filipinos understand what goes into their skincare and why it works for them,” said Keith Sta. Barbara, founder and president of Dermorepubliq. “Our sensitive-skinfirst philosophy is shaped by the needs of Filipino skin, because peace of mind matters as much as visible results.”
Experts and attendees alike said the discussion signals a positive shift in the local beauty community—one that favors education, formulation science, and long-term skin health over fleeting online trends.
The Body Shop’s Cranberry Crush collection captures the festive spirit with its zesty, limited-edition holiday scent
Dermorepubliq leads creators and dermatologists in promoting skin literacy and formulation science
Chef Ayb’s Paragis exhibit highlights the herbal tea’s natural benefits, including detoxification and anti-inflammatory properties
From left: Maria Gabrielle Lim, Aika Vargas, and Dr. Jaja Lao-Ang discuss science-backed skincare during the TikTok Beauty Fest Philippines
Alex Gonzaga and her husband Mikee Morada share their wellness routine centered on Chef Ayb’s Paragis tea
Alex Gonzaga opens up about her healing journey and renewed hope for pregnancy through her partnership with Chef Ayb’s Paragis
