ASIA-PACIFIC
dinand Marcos Jr. said on Saturday. The President had earlier urged the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)
Gov’t orders fishing ban in Bais amid URC spill
State of calamity declared in 13 coastal brgys
By Rio N. Araja and Rex Espiritu
FISHING has been banned in 13 coastal barangays in Bais City, Negros Oriental after a containment dike of a distillery of the Universal Robina Corporation (URC) collapsed and spilled molasses wastewater into the bay, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
An estimated 255,000 cubic meters of molasses wastewater have been released into Bais Bay, potentially affecting 382.29 hectares of marine areas across 13 barangays within the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape, according to the DENR. Bais has declared a state of calamity.
In a statement sent to the Manila Standard on Sunday, the URC said that “at present, 127 personnel supported by 20 Coast Guard members, are engaged in the repair of the collapsed section of Bais distillery.”
AUS think tank warns of Chinese expansionism
By Katrina Manubay and Rex Espiritu
THE Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI), backed by two Australian government officials, warned that China’s aggressive posturing in the SCS,
East China Sea, and South Pacific indicates that it is likely to pursue further land reclamation in disputed areas.
Speaking to journalists from the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam, ASPI Senior Analyst Dr. Fitriani (Fitri Bintang Timur) said their call
comes amid China’s accelerating military buildup and growing naval fleet.
“They can just keep doing the things they want, which is certifying their control over increasingly excessive territorial claims,” the official said.
Storm Tino gathers strength as it nears PH
Marcos urges Nov. 30 rallyists to be peaceful
By Katrina Manubay and Vince Lopez
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday called on demonstrators planning protest actions on November 30, Bonifacio Day, to remain peaceful, urging demonstrators to avoid provocative actions that could lead to violence or disrupt public safety.
Meanwhile, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Sunday said that they are still preparing and monitoring groups and areas for the Nov.30 protests to avoid facing the same riot that erupted during the Sept. 21 rally in Manila.
In an interview in Busan, South Korea, the President said the projected rallies on Nov. 30 are not a cause for concern, but cautioned against agitators who might attempt to stir trouble during the demonstrations.
“What demonstrator goes to a demonstration with Molotov cocktails that are not intending to cause trouble or to hurt people? Those are the people that we are worried about. And those are the people that we are watching out for,” Marcos said. He also urged agitators to refrain from resorting to violence during
By Ram Superable
“Teachers
HONOR THY FATHER. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., accompanied by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, visits the grave of his late father, former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., at the Heroes’ Cemetery yesterday, in commemoration of All Souls’ Day. PCO
CONTAINMENT. Coast Guard personnel and staff of the Bais distillery of Universal Robina Corporation (URC) conduct repairs on the breach of the containment dike which collapsed and released molasses wastewater into Bais Bay. Inset shows the extent of the spill. Erwin Macias FB page, DENR.
“What’s needed now is a form of strategic foresight and pre-emptive resilience. In short, the answer isn’t only ‘more patrols’ by partners but smarter integration of security, technology, and deterrence policy,” Fitriani said.
The two Australian officials, who requested anonymity, supported Fitriani’s assessment, noting that China’s expanding military strength has significantly altered the regional security landscape.
Asked if China would pursue more land reclamations in the South China Sea, one of the Australian government
officials said: “It’s very possible.”
“The behavior that we’re seeing from China, they continue to push the envelope everywhere along their maritime border, including in the South China Sea,” the official said.
He added that Beijing would likely proceed with its current assertive actions to cement its territorial claims than impose an Air Defense Identification Zone, or ADIZ, as some Asian countries have feared, because such a move could stir more unnecessary disagreements.
They pointed out that while much of the attention has centered on Beijing’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), China has also been projecting its military presence closer to Australia, New
Zealand, Japan, and South Korea.
“It doesn’t get reported on very much, but both Korea and Japan had separate disagreements going with China at the moment where China has started putting many floating structures in the Yellow Sea between Korea and China, and then also the East China Sea between Japan and China,” one of the officials emphasized.
As this developed, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Sunday hailed the newly signed Philippines–Canada Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA), which he called “long-awaited and long overdue.”
“This new Visiting Forces Agreement is one of the highest expressions of trust between our two countries,”
Teodoro said during signing ceremonies in Makati City.
“Our militaries will train together and forge an alliance that goes beyond purely commercial,” he added.
For his part, Canadian Defense Minister David McGuinty, who is on his first official visit to Manila, underscored the historic nature of the accord, noting that it is Canada’s first Visiting Forces Agreement in the Indo-Pacific region.
“Today’s signing draws our ships even closer together, but we will not be anchored in place. We will raise our sails, the sails of two proud nations, charting a course toward a more secure and a more prosperous future. This signing is not the end of an effort.” Canada’s defense chief said.
did not get the support needed for it to be included in the APEC Leaders’ Declaration this year.
“The fear that everyone is feeling now is that the principles that guided the creation of the WTO are no longer in place or are no longer effective,” the President said in a press conference before leaving for Manila on Saturday.
“A great deal of what was spoken about is that we have to return to the free market principles that WTO was created for,” he said.
“The WTO was created to spur the growth of the free market, but that is no longer the case as several countries enforce protectionism or policies that are “closing markets,” the President said.
protests, noting that such actions often lead to injuries among both demonstrators and law enforcers.
“Get that out of your mind. You’re going to cause trouble. Nothing will happen. You’ll just get hurt. Your friends will get hurt sometimes. The police have nothing to do with it,” the Chief Executive said.
Marcos also said he acknowledged the public’s anger over reports of corruption linked to government flood-control projects, emphasizing that ‘funds were supposed to go to the people to feed them and to make their lives better’.
In August, President Marcos launched the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” website, providing citizens with a direct channel to report substandard or non-existent infrastructure projects in their communities.
On September 21, demonstrators organized a nationwide protest against government corruption, in response to alleged mind-boggling kickbacks involving lawmakers and officials in flood control infrastructure projects.
“We are ready and continue to prepare for the November 30 Trillion Peso March,” NCRPO spokesperson, Maj. Hazel Asilo said during a televised interview on Super Radyo DZBB.
“Today, we have intensified the monitoring, especially the monitoring of social media because that is where we have seen that the youth are encouraged,” she added.
Asilo said at least 216 individuals, including 89 minors, were arrested after violence broke out during the protest against corruption in relation to the alleged anomalous flood control projects.
The Nov. 30 nationwide Trillion Peso March was organized by some sectors to demand accountability, return of stolen public funds, and full transparency.
The NCRPO official also said it may extend the full alert status in preparation for post-Undas travel and Tropical Storm Tino.
“But for our fellow citizens returning home, their trips might be extended until tomorrow. That’s what we’ll be monitoring, which is why we’re on full alert,” Asilo said.
“That will depend on whether we see the need to extend it further or if there are still citizens we need to assist, especially since a typhoon is also approaching,” she added.
It also advised against the consumption of aquatic products derived from affected waters.
“The work is now 60% complete and is projected to be finished by November 4, 2025. The new dike will be reinforced and strengthened with rubber tires and boulders to make it withstand the relentless rains and earthquake that caused its breach last October 26, 2025,” it said.
The URC said it has deployed experts “who will help contain the spilled wastewater within a limited area and guide the Company, local and other relevant authorities on how best to foster marine re-growth and recovery.”
It also said that URC has been “providing for the needs of the families affected by the spill and will continue to do so until the situation goes back to normal.”
DENR Region 7 said that its personnel are working with partner agencies and local government units (LGUs) to address the spillage, while continuing to monitor its environmental impact.
“We reaffirm our commitment to upholding environmental laws, holding all responsible parties accountable, and restoring the ecological integrity of the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape,” the agency said.
Earlier, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) issued an advisory against all fishing activities in the coastal areas of Bais City and Manjuyod town following the spill from the URC distillery.
Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) also urged CHED to intensify its oversight of graduate programs in teacher education.
must ensure that they receive quality education and training,” he said.
The lawmaker also pressed the government to expedite the repair of classrooms damaged by natural disasters between June and October this year. Delays in rehabilitation efforts, he warned, could worsen the classroom shortage, which currently stands at around 165,000.
Gatchalian proposed partnerships with local government units and the private sector to speed up the rebuilding process.
“Moving forward, we will ensure that the 2026 national budget empowers the Department of Education to adopt flexible and faster approaches in classroom construction, including partnerships with local government units and the private sector,” he said. Following findings that lax regulation has allowed “diploma mills” offering poor-quality master’s and doctoral degrees to thrive in the country, the
In a statement issued on October 31, EDCOM 2 called on CHED to tighten quality regulations on graduate programs after finding widespread lowquality offerings and the rise of socalled diploma mills.
In its latest study, Investigating the State of Graduate Education in the Philippines: Challenges, Opportunities, and Policy Implications, EDCOM 2 found that government policies on hiring and promotions, particularly in the Department of Education (DepEd), have unintentionally fueled the demand for poorquality graduate degrees.
Conducted through a research fellowship with the Ateneo de Manila University and authored by Anne Lan K. Candelaria, Eric Arthur N. Dio, and Jovelyn G. Delosa, the study revealed that more than half of total graduate school enrollment in the country from School Year (SY) 2012–2013 to SY 2023–
The spill has caused massive discoloration of the water and widespread fish kills due to depleted oxygen levels.
Meanwhile, the DENR said its officials have met with URC representatives to ensure full compliance with government directives, ensure relief to affected community members through LGU channels, and secure technical cooperation from the company.
“We assure the public that comprehensive monitoring and rehabilitation efforts are ongoing to protect marine biodiversity and support the communities affected by this incident. We will continue to keep the public informed through regular updates,” it added.
DENR is set to conduct a comprehensive review of URC’s environmental compliance certificate and other related permits.
The agency assured it will initiate administrative, civil, and criminal proceedings against the responsible parties.
Furthermore, the DENR said it immediately convened a technical conference with the Philippine Coast Guard and local government authorities to coordinate response efforts and implement containment measures.
URC, for its part, agreed to hasten the repair of the breached portion of the dike, which is projected to be completed by November 4, and support an ecological assessment of the ecological damage, to be conducted by experts from local
2024 is concentrated in the field of education.
This demand, the study said, is largely driven by DepEd’s vertical qualification requirements and pointbased promotion system.
The authors warned that these policies have created a “diploma-for-promotion” cycle, incentivizing educators to pursue degrees primarily for career advancement rather than academic excellence or professional growth.
“Data from CHED show that in the last 10 school years, more than half of our country’s total enrollment in graduate programs is in the field of education,” the authors said in a separate article.
“Yet our elementary and secondary students in the basic education sector have been lagging based on Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study and Programme for International Student Assessment results in the last 20 years. In some of these years, the Philippines ranked at the bottom,” they added.
The study also pointed out that this trend has created an imbalance in producing graduates with specialized
TRACK OF SEVERE TROPICAL STORM TINO (KALMAEGI)
universities such as Siliman University.
The food and beverage company also committed to providing relief assistance to affected community members in Bais and Manjuyod.
For its part, the Bais City government said the concerned company is now “undertaking rehabilitation of the affected lagoon and has committed to provide financial assistance to the affected fisherfolk from both Bais City and Manjuyod.”
Initial water quality assessments conducted by the DENR-Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) indicate low levels of dissolved oxygen in affected waters, which may cause the death of marine life and other adverse impacts on aquatic ecosystems.
As this developed, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said it is closely monitoring the reported wastewater spill. OCD Administrator and National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Executive Director Undersecretary Harold Cabreros on Sunday said, “[the] OCD NIR is conducting ocular inspections and coordinating with the local DRRM Office and other concerned agencies to address the impacts of the wastewater spill and support response operations.”
On November 5, the DENR will convene the Executive Committee of the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape Protected Area Management Board to determine immediate priorities, outline rehabilitation strategies, and ensure the sustained protection of the affected areas.
knowledge in fields such as mathematics and the sciences, which public schools urgently need.
This imbalance, the study said, has deprived schools of graduates with specialized training in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)—fields essential to national competitiveness.
EDCOM 2 Executive Director Dr. Karol Mark Yee said the findings reflect public frustration with a system that rewards credentials over competence.
“There is a strong public perception that the pursuit of advanced degrees has at times become transactional—a means to gain promotion points rather than to enhance teaching competence,” Yee said.
“This sentiment is fueled by a perceived failure to properly regulate institutions, leading to a situation where, as many have pointed out, low-quality or ‘fly-by-night’ schools provide the same career benefits as high-quality universities,” he added. “This reality undermines the very purpose of professional development and points to an urgent need for systemic reform.”
“Kaya ngayon parang hindi na nasusundan yung ating unang idea na WTO will help us open markets between countries,” he said.
“The world is really turning. Things are changing,” the President added. hours.
“The possibility of reaching super typhoon category is not ruled out based on alternate scenarios and climatological data,” it added.
Classes for Monday, November 3, 2025, have been suspended in several areas due to the expected effects of Tropical Storm Tino.
Below are the class suspensions for Monday, November 3, 2025: REGION VI (WESTERN VISAYAS)
Aklan Malay: All levels, public and private, from November 3 to 5 until further notice. School heads and adm inistrators are advised to implement flexible learning modalities to ensure educational continuity during the suspension period.
New Washington: All levels, public and private, until November 4. Antique Libertad: No physical classes, all levels, public and private, until November 5. Appropriate alternative learning modalities shall be implemented.
Capiz
Roxas City: No face-to-face classes, all levels, public and private, until November 4. Classes will shift to alternative learning modes. Schools
Aklan State University: No faceto-face classes from November 3 to 4. Asynchronous classes and flexible work arrangements will be adopted. West Visayas State University: No face-to-face classes, all levels, until further notice. Learning will continue through mediated modalities (synchronous or asynchronous). Faculty members are reminded to submit their Work Accomplishment and Attendance (WAA) reports. The College of Medicine will proceed with online or mediated learning blocks. Other health programs will continue their Related Learning Experience (RLE) and clinical duties under faculty supervision, while lower-year students of COD and CON without RLE or clinicals will shift to mediated instruction. University operations and services, including those at the WVSU Medical Center, will remain open and continue as usual.
Tino is forecast to move generally westward over the next three days and make its initial landfall over Eastern Samar or Dinagat Islands late Monday evening or early Tuesday morning.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 is in effect over Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Camotes Islands, Dinagat Islands, and Surigao del Norte, according to the latest bulletin.
Heavy rainfall is expected in areas under TCWS No. 1, particularly in Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Southern Leyte, and Leyte.
PAGASA warned that heavy rainfall, severe winds, and storm surge may still be experienced in areas outside the landfall point and the forecast confidence cone.
The surge of the northeast monsoon (amihan), coinciding with the passage of Tino, will continue to bring strong to gale-force gusts over Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Ilocos Norte, the northern and eastern portions of mainland Cagayan, the eastern portion of Isabela, Aurora, Quezon, Lubang Islands, Marinduque, Calaguas Islands, and Caluya Islands.
Tulfo bill seeks to abolish travel tax for Pinoys
By Ram Superable
SENATOR Erwin Tulfo has filed a bill seeking to abolish the travel tax, which he said restricts Filipinos’ right to travel freely.
Under Senate Bill No. 1409, Tulfo aims to remove the decades-old levy in line with the Philippines’ commitment to the 2002 ASEAN Tourism Agreement.
“Almost fourteen years have passed since the Philippines signed the ASEAN Tourism Agreement, yet we continue to impose a travel tax,” the senator lamented.
He described the proposal as a concrete step toward making travel fairer, more affordable, and accessible to all Filipinos.
The existing travel tax system was established through several laws allocating revenues among various government agencies. Under Republic Act No. 1478, or the Tourism Board Law, 50 percent of collections go to the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority.
Republic Act No. 7722, or the Higher Education Act, allocates 40 percent of proceeds to the Commission on Higher Education, while 10 percent goes to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts under Republic Act No. 9593, the Tourism Act of 2009.
“If we truly want to develop the country’s tourism sector and compete with our Southeast Asian neighbors, we need to remove barriers that weaken Filipinos’ ability to travel,” Tulfo said.
Currently, travel tax rates range from P1,620 to P2,700 for economy to firstclass passage, with reduced rates between P810 and P1,350. Privileged reduced rates for dependents of overseas Filipino workers range from P300 to P400.
“Filipinos deserve a better travel experience that not only creates lasting memories but also exposes them to different cultures around the world,” Tulfo said.
BOC seizes ₱42.5m drugs in airport bust
Marcos extends rice import ban to year-end to lift palay prices
By Othel V. Campos
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved the extension of the rice import ban until the end of the year to help stabilize farmgate prices of palay, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. announced Sunday.
“With the import ban having little impact on retail prices and supply, but a significant effect on farmgate prices, President Marcos deemed it necessary to extend the suspension for two more
THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has confiscated ₱42.5 million worth of illegal drugs at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 following a joint operation with airport authorities and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on October 28.
The BOC-NAIA said about 6,250 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, or shabu, were discovered inside the hand-carried baggage of an arriving passenger from Addis Ababa. Suspicious images appeared during a routine x-ray screening, prompting further inspection and field testing.
Tests later confirmed the presence of shabu. The passenger and the seized contraband were turned over to the PDEA for investigation and the filing of criminal charges. Customs officials said the interception was made possible through enhanced screening procedures and coordination among enforcement agencies.
BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the operation underscores the bureau’s commitment to “securing our borders and protecting the nation from illegal drugs.” Thony Rose Lesaca
PNP: 31 most wanted arrested amid Undas
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) maintained full operational readiness during the Undas weekend, ensuring that public safety and law enforcement “never take a holiday,” Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said Sunday.
While millions of Filipinos visited cemeteries nationwide, police forces conducted intelligence-driven operations, checkpoints, and other security measures. These efforts led to the arrest of 31 most wanted persons with standing warrants for various crimes.
“Even as many observe Undas, our men and women in uniform remain vigilant. Public safety and law enforcement never take a holiday,” Nartatez said, adding that ensuring citizens’ safety remains the PNP’s top priority. PNP Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said police personnel were deployed nationwide to secure communities and maintain peace and order. He praised officers for their dedication and round-theclock presence during the long weekend.
The PNP urged the public to cooperate with authorities, follow traffic regulations, and report suspicious activities, emphasizing that public vigilance combined with proactive policing is key to safer communities. Vince Lopez
Mindoro fisherman injured by needlefish
A 45-year-old fisherman from Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro, is recovering in the hospital after a needlefish—locally known as bilaan—leapt from the water and pierced his neck while he was fishing early Thursday.
The victim, Edilberto Lacerna, was spearfishing with a companion around 3 a.m. when the incident happened. Rescue teams brought him first to local facilities in Sablayan and Mamburao before transferring him to Batangas Medical Center, where doctors successfully removed the fish lodged in his neck.
His wife, Ma. Annabel Lacerna, said he remains under close observation and is still having difficulty speaking after surgery. “They’re still observing him to ensure there’s no infection under the wound,” she said. According to his brother-in-law, the needlefish may have been attracted to the light from Lacerna’s headlamp. The companion managed to bring him back to shore, where municipal responders immediately assisted. The family is appealing for financial assistance as Lacerna continues to recover. His wife said he is their sole breadwinner and that they have six young children depending on him. Rex Espiritu
months,” Tiu Laurel said, noting that the official announcement will be issued today (Monday). The President initially ordered a 2-month import halt until October
31 to counter the sharp drop in palay prices ahead of the wet harvest season. Prices briefly recovered but began to slip again as the suspension neared expiry. Tiu Laurel said that with harvests still ongoing in several regions, the extended ban—combined with the Sagip Saka program and the newly imposed floor price for palay—will help protect rice farmers. At a recent Senate hearing, he cited overimportation, weather-damaged crops, and poor grain quality in some areas as key factors depressing farmgate prices.
THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) expressed optimism that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s participation in the 32nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in South Korea will open new avenues for the Philippines to attract more investments.
The 32nd APEC Summit, focusing on trade and economic cooperation, is being held from October 30 to November 2.
“Yes, there are opportunities for
CONTRABAND.
An immigration agent displays contraband after BOC-NAIA, with airport security and PDEA, intercepts an arriving passenger from Addis Ababa carrying suspected illegal drugs at NAIA Terminal 3 on October 28, 2025.
us to get more investments from the Republic of Korea,” DFA Spokesperson Angelica Escalona said during a Palace briefing.
When asked if corruption issues might affect investor confidence, Escalona said this was unlikely.
“We do not really see it, because what is happening now is an expression of our democracy. Interest in the Philippines on the economic side remains strong,” she said.
Escalona also addressed reports about a ₩700-billion infrastruc-
PARADE FOR
A
GURU. Indian nationals celebrate the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji with a parade from the Khalsa Diwan Sikh Temple on UN Avenue to Quirino Grandstand, sharing food and sweeping along the route. Norman Cruz
The Department of Agriculture (DA) projects rice supply to remain sufficient even under a 120-day import pause. Conservative estimates place available stocks at 89 days by end-December, while more optimistic scenarios project up to 92 days, based on projected per-capita consumption of 122.7 kg a year—compared with only 58 days’ worth of stocks at end-2024. Tiu Laurel said he recommended the extension as “a necessary measure to support local producers, maintain price stability, and allow a more thorough review of the policy’s effects.”
Crime drops from August 26 to October 30
By Vince Lopez
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. reported major operational and institutional gains in just 2 months, as the country’s overall crime rate dropped by 13.96 percent from August 26 to October 30. In a statement, Nartatez said index crimes fell from 6,961 cases between July and August 25, 2025, to 5,989 cases between August 26 and October 30. Focus crimes also decreased by 14.01 percent, from 6,931 to 5,960 cases during the same period. Focus crimes include murder, homicide, rape, physical injury, carnapping, and theft.
ture loan project to the Philippines allegedly halted by South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, saying the matter has been settled.
“The issue of the alleged loan is considered closed. The Republic of Korea has clarified and reassured us of its support for advancing development cooperation with the Philippines,” she said.
Escalona added that President Marcos will hold meetings with various business leaders and executives during his visit to South Korea.
Nartatez credited the PNP Focus Agenda—a results-driven framework that enhances resource management, boosts personnel morale, enforces integrity, and strengthens policecommunity partnerships—for the improvements.
“All these accomplishments are part of the PNP Focus Agenda—our roadmap that ensures we manage resources wisely, take care of our people, improve operations, uphold integrity, and work closely with the community,” he said.
From August 26 to October 30, the PNP conducted 9,061 anti-illegal drug operations, resulting in 10,434 arrests, the neutralization of eight suspects, and the confiscation of ₱1.91 billion worth of illegal drugs. More than 11,500 wanted persons were arrested or surrendered, while over 5,600 loose firearms were seized or surrendered. Operations against illegal gambling and smuggling yielded ₱2.86 million worth of gambling paraphernalia and ₱337.8 million worth of smuggled goods.
As part of its internal cleansing drive, the PNP resolved 335 administrative cases involving 569 personnel.
‘Reallocate medical aid fund to boost zero balance billing’
IN BRIEF
of every filmmaker, artist, and storyteller who has shaped our city’s vibrant film heritage. From the golden era of Sampaguita Pictures and the brilliance of icons like Lino Brocka, Dolphy, Nora Aunor, and Fernando Poe Jr., to the new generation of creators bringing our stories to life today — this recognition honors each and every one of them,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said.
“This is for the workers behind the screen and the QCitizens who deserve access to quality films. Today, we celebrate a big achievement in Philippine cinema, but the work starts again tomorrow,” she added. Belmonte maintained that Quezon City’s initiatives will continue to spotlight local film workers and show quality films to everyday QCitizens. Rio N. Araja
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., paid solemn tribute to Capt. Joel Deiparine who died in the line of duty.
Nartatez personally visited the wake of Deiparine, assistant chief of Intelligence Section of the CIDG in Central Visayas, at the St. Peter Chapels in Talisay City, Cebu on Oct. 31 to extend the PNP’s condolences and to assure the bereaved family of the PNP’s “full support and unwavering commitment to seek justice for the fallen officer.”
“On behalf of the entire Philippine National Police, I extend my deepest condolences to the family of Police Captain Joel Deiparine. He is a true example of courage and dedication to duty. His passing is a great loss not only to his family but to the PNP organization and the community he served,” Nartatez said. Vince Lopez He tasked concerned units to ensure that justice is served swiftly and that those responsible for Deiparine’s death are held accountable. Vince Lopez
THE Southern Police District (SPD) has arrested three individuals, among them a member of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and seized ₱1.36 million worth of suspected shabu in a buy-bust operation conducted on Nov. 1, in Barangay New Lower Bicutan, Taguig City. The suspects were identified by their aliases as “Ice,” an active MNLF member; “Justine,” 18, a senior high school student; and “Bing,” 66, female, all residents of Taguig City. Drug charges are
By Ram Superable
SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Sunday proposed reallocating part of the P49-billion budget for the Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) to expand the government’s zero-balance billing program.
Gatchalian said the realignment would strengthen the country’s Universal Health Care (UHC) system and reduce the need for Filipinos to seek financial aid from politicians for hospital expenses.
“It’s painful to see that many of our fellow Filipinos still have to line up at politicians’ offices to ask for help,” said Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance.
“We are placing the decision between life and death in the hands of politicians, and that’s not right. The system itself
should be the one helping our people,” he stressed.
The lawmaker asserted that transferring funds to the zero-balance billing program would ensure that all Filipinos have access to quality healthcare without incurring crippling medical costs.
The UHC Law, according to him, aims to provide equitable health services for all citizens, but gaps in implementation continue to burden poor and financially struggling patients.
Gatchalian said the existing MAIFIP
program, while helpful, often creates dependency on political offices and fails to guarantee consistent access to medical care.
“We need to reform Universal Healthcare to ensure that all Filipinos have access to quality health services without being buried in expenses,” he said. Under the zero-balance billing policy, patients in government health facilities should no longer pay out-of-pocket expenses for services covered by PhilHealth.
However, Gatchalian cautioned that fully implementing the program would likely increase hospital occupancy rates across the country.
He cited the need to expand hospital capacities, noting that many public health centers already exceed their designated bed limits.
The senator urged the Department of Health and PhilHealth to review current funding allocations and prioritize measures that directly benefit patients.
Group to Senate: Prioritize digital infra in ‘26 budget
graphically isolated and disadvantaged areas. Following the House of Representatives’ approval of the P6.79-trillion national budget for 2026, Stratbase president Victor Andres Manhit, urged the senators to redirect a portion of unprogrammed appropriations to expand the Last Mile Schools Program, which provides internet access, digital devices, and solar-powered electrification to underserved public schools.
“Now that the House has passed the budget, it’s the Senate’s turn to make a strategic intervention,” Manhit said. “We urge our senators to ramp up funding for digital infrastructure in public schools, especially those farthest from the capital.” The Last Mile Schools Program maintains a flat allocation of P3 billion in both the 2025 General Appropriations Act and the 2026 National Expenditure Program. A significant portion of this budget supports solar panel installations, which are essential in powering ICT equipment in off-grid areas. However, the proposed 2026 budget does not include explicit line items for key programs like the computerization or connectivity enhancement, despite the growing urgency for digital learning infrastructure.
“Reliable broadband internet and access to AI-powered learning platforms are no longer luxuries—they are essential infrastructure,” Manhit emphasized. “They ensure learning continuity during typhoons and floods, and equip both teachers and students with tools to thrive in a digitally driven, AI-powered economy.”
NHA waives fines, interest on housing loans until Dec. 31
By Rio N. Araja
THE National Housing Authority (NHA) has extended its Condonation 7 program until Dec.31 for the benefit of housing beneficiaries who were affected by recent calamities in various regions of the country.
“We understand the financial situation of each beneficiary of our housing, especially those who were affected by the successive southwest monsoons, typhoons and earthquakes. That is why we encourage more of our account holders to go to the nearest NHA office in your area and avail of this program,” NHA general manager Joeben Tai said.
“This will address the needs of our resettled families, especially in terms of housing affordability and accessibility,” he added.
Condonation 7, deemed the “largest condonation program in the history of the NHA,” waives 100 percent of penalties and delinquency interest, as well as 95 percent of unpaid amortization interest for thousands of the agency’s delinquent beneficiaries.
NHA records showed that a total of P497.951 million in interest charges has already been condoned for 9,850 beneficiary families. Originally set to end on Oct. 31, the program’s effectivity started on May 1 2025, providing each housing beneficiary with an initial six months grace period to enable them to restructure their loans and secure ownership of their homes.
Under the program, incentives will also be provided to beneficiaries with updated accounts or those with a good payment record on their monthly amortization, including discounts and other benefits.
Supporting this initiative, the NHA, through its regional and district offices, is also conducting large-scale information and application drives, which serve as notice to housing beneficiaries of the program application requirements.
By Vince Lopez and Edwin Ombion
NATIONAL Police Commission (Napolcom), vice-chairman and executive officer
Rafael Vicente Calinisan has ordered directed the conduct an investigation into the case of a police officer in Bacolod City for alleged complicity in the disappearance and killing of a businesswoman in Negros Occidental. The suspect, SSgt Enrique Gonzalodo surrendered pm Saturday morning to the Negros Occidental Provincial Police Office (NOCPPO). The victim, identified as Kristine Joy Dignadice, a resident of Victorias City, was the registered owner of a Hyundai Accent sedan found abandoned with blood stains in Hinigaran, Negros Occidental, last Wednesday, Oct. 29.
She was reported missing since Oct. 29. Probers recovered her car on the same day in sitio Sol-ol, Brgy Gargato, Hinigaran town.
Calinisan said the Napolcom will take immediate cognizance of the case as it involves an active member of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
“The Napolcom will ensure that due process is observed and that the erring police officer will be held fully accountable. The administrative case will proceed separately from any criminal proceedings filed before the court,” he said.
On Nov. 1, the suspect, a police officer tagged as a prime suspect in the case, voluntarily surrendered to Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay,–Negros Island Region police director, at Camp Alfredo Montelibano Sr. in Bacolod City.
BIRDS OF THE SAME FEATHER. A flock of egrets engages in a feeding frenzy at a portion of the Zapote River at the boundary of Bacoor City and Las Piñas City, to the amusement of passerby. Dennis Abrina
‘LIONIZED’ YOUTHS OF SANTA ROSA CITY. Mayor Arlene Arcillas lead
OPINION
Let’s be practical
ALLOW me to dream the “impossible,” and propose something practical. Sure, my proposal goes against “tradition,” even the religiosity that we consider spiritual, or the conviviality we call cultural.
Take the holidays that Tagalogs call Undas, and the Bisaya call “Kalag-kalag.”
Most of us go through the ritual of trooping to the cemeteries where ancestors lie in graves that we clean up once a year, bearing flowers and lighting candles to remember them. We travel long distances at great expense to bond with relatives on the two holidays reserved for the dead. In the urban centers, all roads lead to cemeteries.
Pity those who lie in a Hagonoy cemetery which has been inundated with flood waters which have no intention to recede, thanks to government neglect. Patay na, nilulunod pa. Elsewhere, candle makers and florists experience peak sales. For transport services from trains, bus, boats and planes, along with their terminals, it’s happy mayhem.
Yet what we see are picnics and family reunions, not piety nor prayer, not commemoration but celebration, often accompanied by overflowing food and alcohol surreptitiously imbibed due to LGU prohibitions.. The detritus left in the cemeteries after the two-day exercise insults ancestors just as it is a huge clean-up undertaking for the cemetery-keepers.
In my practical mind, why don’t we honor the memory of ancestors by visiting their graves on their birth or death anniversaries, instead of everybody trooping like a horde of “pious” revelers once a year?
The price of candles and flowers, even transport costs will be stable and traffic will normalize while remembering becomes personal and reflection becomes serene.
The Spaniards brought Dia de los Muertos from Mexico, an amalgam of pre-colonial ancestor worship and Catholic veneration of saints. From the Castillian “honrar” (to honor), we derived “undas.”
This writer understands that ancestor veneration is rooted upon belief in an afterlife, whether among Christians or Buddhists, and other religions. Practices differ, but commemoration is universal.
My suggestion will likely be unpopular to many, though I have always criticized the surfeit of holidays that we have in this benighted land.
We have regular holidays, 10 for next year, as defined by the national government. Then we have special non-working holidays – Ninoy Aquino Day, All Saints Day and Immaculate Conception Day which are Catholic, and Dec. 31, “sandwiched” between Rizal’s death anniversary and New Year’s Day.
Also, there are the holidays for Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha for our Muslim brothers, even a recently mandated Chinese New Year, the dates of which are movable. Add to these Black Saturday, All Souls
Day and Christmas Eve. How many of these
holidays which are rooted in religion, dwarf those that commemorate the secular? Add more work-free days due to calamities, and floods brought about by “ghosts.”
And there are more!
Local governments celebrate their city or provincial “foundation” day, on top of the feast day of the patron saint that the Catholic Church has assigned to them. Why LGUs are given the power to declare their own holidays beats me.
Again, I posit something the Church will
What we see are picnics and family reunions, not piety nor prayer, not commemoration but celebration
never accept: why not a national patron saint, whether the Nazareno or Santo Nino, instead of a multiplicity of holy days for every “santo patron?”
Or for that matter, why for heaven’s sake do we have localized fiestas at all, which even non-Catholics celebrate by gorging on food and drink, while even the “faithful” forget to attend Holy Mass, busy instead with gustatory preparations?
Ah, tradition, tradition, and I am a “killjoy.”
Now let’s think of the productivity losses brought about by this surfeit of holidays, and the added cost to employers of paying for no work, plus the inertia brought about by holiday expectation or holiday hang-over, not to forget our students bereft of learning.
The management genius who once upon a time brought life back to Detroit’s auto industry, Lee Iacocca, once said that better automobiles were those assembled on a Wednesday.
On Mondays, workers had hangovers from the week-end holiday, still feeling lazy; on Fridays they were looking forward to weekend relaxation.
Of course, assembly lines now use robots, who will soon take over our BPOs even after Trump’s back to America policy overtakes AI decimation of our service-dependent economy which in turn fuels our consumption-driven GNP along with the Filipino diaspora.
Then again, we have a president who is both laid back, given to relaxing in concerts and boxing matches despite boos and catcalls, while a haggard, hard-driven Cabinet member works to the death for “Utos ni Pangulo.” What a country!
The Manila Dialogue: Where diplomacy must confront aggression
THE Philippines is no stranger to navigating stormy waters—figuratively and literally. Today, those waters are increasingly challenged by geopolitical friction that threatens both our national sovereignty and economic resilience.
At the heart of this is the West Philippine Sea, a lifeline not only for our fishermen and coastal communities but for the very future of our economy and regional role.
We are living through an era where defending our territorial integrity is no longer just a military or diplomatic issue—it’s now deeply economic.
Every incursion, every confrontation at sea, every barrier to our rightful access to marine resources chips away not only at our sovereignty but at our capacity to sustain livelihoods, attract investments, and maintain our upward trajectory. The harassment of Filipino vessels, the environmental degradation of our waters, and the slow creep of gray-zone operations are not abstract provocations—they’re real threats to real people.
Fisherfolk are pushed into deeper poverty. Communities that depend on the sea are being strangled by an aggressor’s chokehold. And yet, amid these pressures, the Philippines remains one of the region’s strongest growth performers, with the Asian Development Bank projecting a steady 5.6% GDP increase in 2025. That growth is driven by internal demand, investment, and policy reforms—proof that we have a resilient foundation. But resilience isn’t enough. That growth must be inclusive. It must deliver for every Filipino, not just the business elite or urban centers. And it must be shielded from the shocks of regional insecurity.
This is where partnerships matter. Strategic, mutually beneficial partnerships—not ones cloaked in debt traps or veiled threats. According to recent Pulse Asia data, Filipinos are loud and clear on who they trust: the United States, Japan, Australia, ASEAN, and other democratic partners top the list. China, despite being a major economic player, ranks near the bottom in public perception when it comes to being a reliable economic partner. That sends a powerful message.
We are living through an era where defending our territorial integrity is no longer just a military or diplomatic issue
Our foreign policy and economic diplomacy should reflect this reality.
We must strengthen partnerships with like-minded nations who believe in open trade, rule of law, and shared prosperity—not coercion.
These ties must translate into real investments: in infrastructure, digital connectivity, education, clean energy, and blue economy initiatives.
Not just MOUs and photo ops, but deals that improve quality of life, protect our environment, and create sustainable jobs.
The Philippines’ upcoming chairmanship of ASEAN is a pivotal opportunity to put
A wide view of a flooded cemetery of stacked ‘apartment-type’ tombs typical of Metro Manila. The lower tiers are half-submerged in murky water; wilted candles and flowers drift away. A few families stand on makeshift planks, lighting candles that flicker weakly against the flood.
Main Imagery:
From the flooded tombs, ghostly figures rise — translucent, hollow-eyed, draped in tattered blueprints and paper labeled ‘Ghost Project.’ Some carry price tags or receipts instead of rosaries. Their ethereal forms hover over the cemetery like steam from decay.
Tone and Detail:
• Heavy pen-and-ink cross-hatching for the floodwater and tomb textures.
• Sparse background to heighten the eerie stillness.
• A few floating candles reflected as peso signs on the water surface.
EDITORIAL
Stamina in the fight against corruption
THE Independent Commission for Infrastructure has asked the Ombudsman to file charges against four current or former lawmakers, one official of the Department of Public Works and Highways, and a commissioner of the Commission on Audit.
ICI Chairman, former Supreme Court Justice Andres Reyes, narrated the practice of collusion among government officials and contractors so that they could corner 25 percent to 30 percent of the money allocated for the project.
The recommendations were based on several hearings that have been conducted by the ICI since its creation in September. The ICI, created under Executive Order 94, is tasked to investigate, receive evidence and evaluate reports, as well as recommend the filing of appropriate criminal, civil and administrative cases.
Despite the hearings and the preliminary findings and recommendations, however, some sectors have expressed low confidence in the pace of the ICI’s action against individuals linked to the flood control mess. There are names that have not been included among those recommended for prosecution.
The ICI, with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, recently visited the newly constructed jail facilities in Paya-
these principles into action. While the ceremonial handover has already taken place, the term begins on Jan. 1, 2026. Under the banner “Navigating Our Future Together,” we must turn ASEAN into more than a ceremonial bloc. It must be a platform for regional leadership that is proactive, rules-based, and people-centered. President Marcos Jr.’s commitments to strengthen regional trade through mechanisms like the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement and RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) are steps in the right direction—but they must be coupled with a firm, consistent defense of our maritime rights.
The stakes are high.
The South China Sea is not just a flashpoint—it’s a pressure point for the global economy. Nearly a third of global shipping passes through it. It’s a vital corridor for food, fuel, com-
tas, Quezon City. The DPWH also warned that some of the more prominent names linked to the mess will likely be in jail for the Christmas holidays. But at this point, all the people have are these assurances. There have been no arrests and the list of those recommended charged appears lacking, at best.
Let us make sure we never run out of steam in this protracted battle
We share our nation’s outrage at the systemic plunder of taxpayer’s funds for supposed flood-control projects. We have the same intense desire for making officials accountable for their corrupt acts. Indeed we should hold them up as an example
merce, technology, and digital connectivity. If these waters are no longer free and open, the economic repercussions won’t be contained to our archipelago—it will be global.
This is why the upcoming Manila Dialogue on the South China Sea, set for November 5–7, 2025, is a critical inflection point. Bringing together leading regional experts, this forum is designed to promote a rules-based maritime order and shape pragmatic policy solutions that advance peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific. The Dialogue offers a timely platform to align national interests with broader regional priorities, especially as the Philippines prepares to lead ASEAN with a renewed mandate for principled leadership and inclusive cooperation.
The Dialogue must not shy away from the hard questions. What does economic security mean in an age of strategic coercion?
How can small and middle powers band together to safeguard shared seas without
that crime does not pay. Unfortunately, the search for truth could degenerate into cries of persecution and then finger-pointing, with the parties insisting on their innocence and naming others who they say are the really guilty ones.
The overwhelming noise threatens to lump everything together under the same category, confusing and eventually desensitizing the public. When that happens, the distinction between the honest and the corrupt gets lost, and there is an erosion of confidence in the whole government, even in the institutions that are tasked to investigate and to prosecute.
Even at the height of our indignation, we should be able to discern that sweeping words and hasty actions could have disastrous consequences in the long term. This is especially true if the resulting complaints are founded based on emotional outbursts and innuendoes instead of established and verifiable facts. Such cases would eventually fall apart after the initial attention, and thus would be a disservice to the people who deserve to know the truth and punish the guilty. Corruption has been a long-festering evil in our country, and it has been around for decades under evolving names, means, and forms. Solutions will not come fast, and we must be ready for a protracted battle. Let us fight it wisely, decisively and steadily so we would never run out of steam.
provoking conflict? How do we ensure that development is not held hostage by geopolitical rivalry?
We need a regional order grounded in cooperation, not capitulation.
As ASEAN Chair and host of the Manila Dialogue, the Philippines has the chance— and the responsibility—to show leadership that is principled, pragmatic, and people-first. Sovereignty and economic progress are not competing goals; they are mutually reinforcing imperatives. Defending one strengthens the other. The Manila Dialogue must be where diplomacy meets resolve.
If we want a region where rules matter more than muscle, and where economies grow free from intimidation, we must lead with clarity and conviction.
The West Philippine Sea is the front line of our national and economic security. Our sovereignty is not up for negotiation, and our future won’t be written in silence.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2025 mst.daydesk@gmail.com
10 hurt in UK train stabbing, 2 arrested
North Korean POWs in Ukraine ‘want to go to South’
SEOUL – Two North Korean prisoners of war held in Ukraine have pleaded to live in South Korea, a human rights organization told AFP on Sunday.
The prisoners made the request during an interview for a documentary film that the organization, Gyeore-eol Nation United, helped coordinate.
Around 10,000 North Korean troops were sent in 2024 to fight for Russia in its war against Ukraine, according to South Korean and Western intelligence agencies.
“The two (POWs) asked the producer at the end of the interview to take them to the South,” said Jang Se-yul, head of the organization which works with North Korean defectors.
The interview took place on Oct. 28 at an undisclosed facility in Kyiv where the two POWs are being held after they were captured by Ukraine.
“They pleaded with the interviewer to promise she would return to bring them to the South,” said Jang, himself a North Korean defector.
Under South Korea’s constitution, all Koreans are considered citizens including those in the North, and Seoul has said this applies to any troops captured in Ukraine.
The video has not yet been made public but is expected to be released in the coming weeks, Jang said.
Photos provided by Jang’s organization show one POW reading letters from defectors now living in the South. AFP
IN BRIEF
Trump threatens armed action in Nigeria
WEST PALM BEACH – US President Donald Trump threatened on Saturday (Sunday Manila time) to send the military into Nigeria with “guns-a-blazing” if Africa’s most populous country does not stem what he described as the killing of Christians by Islamists.
In an explosive post, the Republican leader -- who had campaigned unsuccessfully for the Nobel Peace Prize -- said on social media he asked the Pentagon to map out a possible plan of attack, one day after warning that Christianity was “facing an existential threat in Nigeria.” Nigeria is embroiled in numerous conflicts that experts say have killed both Christians and Muslims without distinction.
“If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the U.S.A. will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now disgraced country, ‘gunsa-blazing,’ to completely wipe out the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities,” Trump said. AFP
Caribbean digs out from Melissa, 50 dead
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaican officials announced plans Saturday (Sunday Manila time) to set up multiple field hospitals as it recovers from Hurricane Melissa, with the death toll numbering at least 50 across the Caribbean -- and expected to rise. The island’s confirmed deaths remain at 19 as of Saturday, though Health Minister Christopher Tufton told a briefing “I would imagine it’s more... because there are still places that we have had difficulties reaching.”
Haiti’s Civil Protection department meanwhile said at least 31 people have been killed there as a result of the storm. Melissa tore across Jamaica as a ferocious top-level Category 5 hurricane, the most powerful storm ever recorded on the island, with sustained winds peaking at 185 miles (nearly 300 kilometers) per hour while drenching the country with torrential rain. AFP
Canada’s Carney promises bold budget as US threat grows
“Our relationship with the United States will never be the same as it was,” he told students at the University of Ottawa in a pre-budget speech last month. Carney said his government would propose a budget that addresses the stark new geopolitical realities facing Canada.
US President Donald Trump’s trade policies have
hard, driving up unemployment and squeezing businesses in crucial tariff-hit sectors like autos, aluminum, and steel. Carney, a former central banker who only entered politics in January, has warned Canadians that the Trump-era disruptions in US-Canada relations are not a passing phase.
Among the headline items will be major increases in defense spending to bring Canada in line with NATO targets.
Funds will also be allocated to a series of national projects that Carney has said are key to Canada’s economic sovereignty, given the “rupture” in economic ties with the United States.
These range from port expansion to energy production and the infrastructure
“We
“This is what this upcoming budget will be about: building, taking control, and winning.”
Carney and Finance Minister FrancoisPhilippe Champagne have flagged that spending increases will be partly offset by cuts to government operating budgets. But those savings will not cover all the new costs.
University of Ottawa public policy expert Genevieve Tellier told AFP she expects the deficit to be “very large.”
HUNTINGTON, United Kingdom –UK police arrested two suspects after a mass stabbing on a Londonbound train late Saturday that left 10 people in hospital, nine likely with “life-threatening injuries”.
Armed police, backed by police cars and a fleet of ambulances, swarmed a railway station in the eastern rural town of Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, after the alarm was raised about the attack and the train brought to a halt there.
“Ten people have been taken to hospital following a multiple stabbing on a train in Cambridgeshire. Nine are believed to have suffered life-threatening injuries,” British Transport Police said on X, adding that counter-terrorism units were supporting the investigation. Transport police confirmed the train was running from Doncaster in the northeast to London’s King’s Cross Station, a busy route often packed with travelers. A witness described seeing a man with a large knife and told The Times newspaper there was “blood everywhere” as people hid in the washrooms. Some passengers were getting “stamped (on) by others” as they tried to run, and the witness told The Times they “heard some people shouting we love (you)”.
Witnesses told Sky News they saw a man holding a large knife on the platform after the train halted. They then saw the man tasered and restrained by police. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the “appalling” incident was “deeply concerning”.
“My thoughts are with all those affected, and my thanks go to the emergency services for their response,” Starmer said in a statement on X.
“Anyone in the area should follow the advice of the police,” Starmer added, while his interior minister Shabana Mahmood confirmed two people had been taken into custody. Armed police were at the scene after being alerted around 7:40 pm (1940 GMT) just after the train had left the town of Peterborough. AFP
Millions at risk losing food aid in US shutdown
But many recipients have had their aid disrupted amid the bureaucratic tug-of-war. AFP
Obama campaigns with
Ukraine deploys special forces to city under Russian assault
US Democrats
WASHINGTON, DC – Former US president Barack Obama hit the campaign trail Saturday (Sunday Manila time) for fellow Democrats ahead of closely-watched state elections, laying into Donald Trump over his “shambolic” policies and warning of the dangers facing American democracy.
Obama, who remains a powerful figure in today’s Democratic Party, took the stage to robust applause in Virginia and then New Jersey to stump for two candidates in gubernatorial elections seen as critical bellwethers ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
The 64-year-old quickly noted how Americans frustrated with rising inflation, energy costs and home prices were “willing to take a chance” on a national candidate like Donald Trump who promised relief from such challenges.
But nine months into Trump’s second term, “has any of that gotten better?”
Obama asked in Norfolk, Virginia as the crowd responded: “No.” AFP
KYIV – Ukraine has deployed special forces to the eastern city of Pokrovsk, where it is under pressure from an intense Russian assault involving thousands of troops, Kyiv’s top commander said Saturday. Pokrovsk, in Ukraine’s Donetsk region, lies on a major supply route for the Ukrainian army and has been in Moscow’s sights for over a year.
Hundreds of Russian soldiers have infiltrated the logistics hub, Kyiv said earlier this week. Others are closing in on its outskirts in a pincer-shaped movement, according to battlefield maps published by the Institute for the Study of War.
The city’s capture would provide a major propaganda boost for the Kremlin, which has rebuffed US calls to halt its nearly-four year invasion and instead pushed forward with its ground assault.
“A comprehensive operation to destroy and displace enemy forces from Pokrovsk is under way,” Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky
said in a post on Facebook.
“By my order, consolidated groups of Special Operations Forces are operating in the city,” he added, without elaborating. Videos published on social media purported to show helicopters flying over Pokrovsk, while another purportedly taken by a Russian drone showed figures scrambling from a helicopter that had landed in a field.
Special forces are a branch of the military trained to carry out covert operations, often through unconventional warfare such as sabotage and diversion.
Syrsky said Pokrovsk was under pressure from an “enemy group thousands strong”, but denied reports that Moscow had encircled the logistics hub, saying there was “no blockade”.
“We are doing everything to implement logistics,” he said.
Lady Bulldogs capture 2nd seat in Final 4
ANN Pingol notched her first career triple-double as defending champion National University dismantled De La Salle University, 97-67, to clinch the second Final Four berth in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Tournament, Sunday afternoon at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
Behind Pingol’s all-around brilliance of 12 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists, and six steals — marking the season’s first triple-double in the women’s division — the Lady Bulldogs secured their 11th consecutive Final Four appearance.
This impressive streak began in Season 76 during the first year of former head coach Pat Aquino, leading to 10 straight Finals trips and eight UAAP championships.
“Kanina, hindi ko rin kasi alam na ‘yon ‘yung stats ko. Parang sinasabihan din ako ng coaches and ‘yung mga kasama ko naman sa court, parang they fed me na kailangan ko raw ng ganito tapos kami raw bahala sayo,” said the 5-foot-7 winger, who is a member of the UAAP Season 87 Mythical Team and is in her final season.
“Alam nila na hindi ko ‘yon magagawa pag wala sila, kailangan ko rin sila. Dahil din sa kanila ito.”
The victory also extended NU’s winning streak to eight games, solidifying its grip on solo second place in the eight-team field with a 9-1 record, trailing only the still-unbeaten University of Santo Tomas (9-0).
“We’re satisfied with this win. Happy kami sa laro na ito kasi maganda laro namin and we followed the game plan. I challenged them to share the ball more in this game and happy ako kasi we got 37 assists. That is a testament to how this group of girls want to play for each other, share the ball, and think about the team,” said Lady Bulldogs head coach DA Olan.
Building on a strong 50-36 halftime lead, NU blew the game wide open with a decisive 16-4 start to the third quarter — capped by two straight Tin Cayabyab inside conversions and a Daniella Alterado floater — to seize a commanding 66-40 lead that proved insurmountable.
ZUS Coffee’s DeBeer is PVL Player of Week
IT is no secret who is powering ZUS Coffee to its best start in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL).
American import Anna DeBeer brings in the right blend of firepower and leadership, which translated to the Thunderbelles’ unbeaten run in the 2025 Reinforced Conference.
Showcasing superb performance consistently, the Kentucky native fueled ZUS Coffee to a 4-0 win-loss record in Pool B.
The Thunderbelles’ last victim was a complete and healthy Petro Gazz side, rising above the 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference champions, 25-22, 25-21, 25-20, on Tuesday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
DeBeer’s 23-point match-high production that kept ZUS Coffee as the lone unscathed team in the tournament earned her the PVL Press Corps Player of the Week presented by Pilipinas Live for the period of October 28 to 31.
The 24-year-old outside spiker previously said she, together with the team, is aiming for the crown. And with a whole organization — from the management to staff members — backing her up, the sky is the limit for the Thunderbelles.
“Obviously, as a team, we want to win this thing. And we’re going to try our best to get there,” said DeBeer.
“I think that’s why it’s super exciting to be in an environment with such a great team, with great staff, and be around good people where it’s fun to work hard every single day.”
“So, I’m really just excited about getting better and seeing how far we can go,” she added.
Bullpups maul Jr. Archers by 40, boost semifinal bid
NATIONAL
University
Nazareth School officially secured a playoff berth for a UAAP Season 88 Junior High School Basketball Final Four spot in emphatic fashion, routing De La Salle Zobel, 95-55, in a wire-to-wire victory on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Remaining unbeaten after 10 games, the Bullpups, who have won by an average winning margin of 28.0 points, can clinch the first semifinals ticket in the division if University of the East absorbs its fifth loss or NUNS wins its 11th game.
In the second game of the morning, Far Eastern UniversityDiliman fended off Adamson University, 71-65, to improve to 8-2 and strengthen its hold on second place.
The Baby Falcons, meanwhile, slipped to third with a 6-4 record.
Setting the tone early, Moussa Diakite, Clark Khobuntin, David Sabareza, Ian Manalo, Loin LalongIsip, and Mark Arzola combined to give NUNS a 21-8 lead with 3:39 left in the first quarter. The Bullpups then dominated the second period, with Diakite’s dunk pushing their advantage to 51-24 heading into halftime.
Leveraging a 53-27 cushion at the half, the Bullpups extended their lead to as much as 89-45 with 4:46 remaining in the fourth quarter, thanks to steady contributions from Nick Peña, Caleb Liwanag, and Jehove Gatumbato.
The only setback for NUNS came late in the third frame when Khobuntin sustained a nose injury after colliding with La Salle’s
For Bullpups head coach Leo Pujante, the win served as the perfect birthday gift for Diakite, who turned 16 a day earlier and powered the team with 19 points, 15 rebounds, two assists, and two blocks.
“It’s our birthday gift to Moussa,” said Pujante. “Birthday ni Moussa yesterday. It’s a good win, lalo na ang tagal ‘yung break. ‘Di ba one week kami na-break? Ito one week na naman. Next game namin, one week naman. Ngayon lang namin na-experience ‘yung one-week, one-week eh. Hirap pala ‘yung one week. Mas gusto namin ‘yung sunod-sunod — ‘yung weekend, Wednesday, weekend.”
The Bullpups completely overpowered the Junior Archers inside the paint, scoring 82 points
compared to just 14 from La Salle. They also tallied 40 fastbreak points to their opponent’s five, and dished out 33 assists against DLSZ’s 13. Dean Tria followed Diakite’s lead with 16 points and three assists, while Peña chipped in 13 points, nine rebounds, and three assists. Sabareza also scored 10 points for NUNS.
Despite another lopsided victory and a secured Final Four slot, Pujante emphasized that the Bullpups’ approach remains the
same as they look to close out the eliminations strong. “Ganu’n pa rin,” he said. “We treat each team the same — walang mahina, walang malakas. Gan’un pa rin. We compete. Sila-sila (mga players), nag-aaway sila sa ensayo. Ayaw nila magpatalo sa isa’t isa.”
This win also completed NUNS’ sweep of the Junior Archers, having beaten them 77-56 in their firstround encounter last October 12. Meanwhile, the Baby Tamaraws of FEU-Diliman had to dig deep to fend off a furious Adamson rally. Dwyne Enriquez and Prince Cariño hit consecutive baskets to give FEU-D its largest lead at 60-44 with 6:57 remaining. However, Adamson’s Kyle Abas, Edison Jordan, Uno Del Monte, Keefy Iledan, Seb Esma, and Allison Jordan led a 16-4 surge that trimmed the deficit to 64-60 with just 1:47 left.
Sharks Billiards Association Season 2 lures 2 more teams
THE Sharks Billiards Association
(SBA) is gearing up for another thrilling season as it launches Season 2 on November 10, 2025, featuring not one, but two new powerhouse teams, the Makati Titans and Paranaque Kings.
This expansion marks a major milestone in SBA’s mission to professionalize billiards and showcase the best Filipino cue artists on a national stage.
With six teams now in the league, expect fierce rivalries, fresh faces, and the same world-class level of play that has made SBA the gold standard of Philippine Cue Sports.
“Season 2 is all about evolution for both the league and the athletes playing,” said Hadley Mariano, SBA Founder. “We’re proud to welcome new cities into the fold as we continue giving Filipino cue artists a professional platform to grow, compete, and inspire the next generation.”
Making his professional debut with the Paranaque Kings is Dart Bonode, a 19-year-old student from
In The Red Corner
De La Salle University.
“Playing for SBA means more than competition. It’s an opportunity to learn from the best and prove that young players like us can stand with veterans,” Bonode shared. “ I’m proud to represent Paranaque and be part of this growing community.”
TEN years ago, the world stood still for “The Fight of the Century.” Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao, the two titans of their generation, finally collided under the bright lights of Las Vegas.
It was billed as boxing’s salvation, a clash that would define an era. But when the final bell rang, what we got wasn’t an explosion — it was a slow burn. Mayweather did what “Money May” always does -- stay sharp, stay safe, and stay ahead on the scorecards. Pacquiao swung, smiled, and later admitted he was nursing a shoulder injury.
A decade later, the whispers have returned — rumors of a rematch, of Mayweather and Pacquiao running it back in 2026. The Ring’s Mike Coppinger reported Netflix could even broadcast it. Yes, the world’s biggest streaming platform, now flirting with combat sports, might resurrect a bout that already had its day in the sun.
But let’s be honest: there’s no reason for this sequel to exist.
Mayweather will be 48 in February next year, and Pacquiao turns 49 this December. One man has spent
The addition of Makati Titans and Paranaque Kings follow SBA’s nationwide scouting tours launched earlier this year, aimed at discovering emerging talents and expanding the league’s reach across the country. These tours underscore SBA’s commitment to building a professional ecosystem for
the last few years sleepwalking through exhibition contests against YouTubers and aging athletes. The other, a Filipino icon who should be enjoying his hard-earned peace, recently came out of retirement to battle a younger, hungrier Mario Barrios — and to his credit, fought him to a majority draw.
That’s impressive for a man who’s seen more wars than most gyms combined. But just because he can still throw hands at his age doesn’t mean he should.
Pacquiao has been teasing matchups with a retired Vasiliy Lomachenko and WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero. Yet, when the name “Mayweather” appears on the horizon, everything else fades into the background. He even called the potential rematch a “real fight.”
Real fight? No, this is real regression.
It makes me frown to think that one of boxing’s biggest talking points heading into 2026 could be two men nearing 50 years old trying to recreate what never really was. It’s an indictment of the sport’s current state that this is the kind of spectacle major platforms like Netflix are willing to bankroll. It screams desperation, not innovation.
Let’s call it what it is: nostalgia packaged as relevance.
This isn’t a step forward for boxing
— it’s a stumble backward. The sport is supposed to be about evolution, about finding the next hero to carry
Philippine cue Sports. The upcoming season will now feature six teams, the Taguig Stallions (Season 1 champions), Manila MSW Mavericks, Quezon City Dragons, Negros Occidental Pillars, and the two new contenders, the Makati Titans and Paranaque Kings.
the torch. But instead of shining a light on the new blood, we keep recycling names from the 2000s like a greatest-hits album that won’t stop playing.
Sure, the rematch would draw numbers. It would trend. It would make money. But at what cost? When you prop up the past at the expense of the present, you drain the future.
Somewhere out there, a hungry, fearless pugilist grinding in obscurity is losing screen time to a pair of legends, who already had their moment.
Netflix isn’t to blame for chasing the hype. It’s a business, after all, and nostalgia is a proven moneymaker. But if this is what boxing has to offer to stay relevant, then the sport has bigger problems than aging icons.
“The Sweet Science” doesn’t need another reunion tour. It needs a revolution.
Mayweather and Pacquiao gave us everything they had. They owe the sport nothing more — and the sport owes them the dignity of being left in peace.
Because if the brightest idea boxing can muster is to dig up a timeworn rivalry, then maybe the encounter worth watching isn’t Mayweather vs. Pacquiao II. It’s boxing versus its own refusal to move on.
(For comments or questions, reach the author at nissi.icasiano@gmail.com or visit his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/nissi.icasiano.)
NUNS’ Moussa Diakite secures the rebound.
Mattheo Quillo at the 6:08 mark. Jaypee Yanga also missed the game due to uniform issues.
Ann Pingol
Anna DeBeer
The Makati Titans and Paranaque Kings join SBA Season 2. Sharks Billiards Association Founder Hadley Mariano ( 3rd from left) and Games and Amusement Board chairman Atty. Francisco Rivera (4th from right) lead the media launching of the new teams at the Sharks Arena and Sports Bar in Tomas Morato, Quezon City.
Nissi Icasiano
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
Alas girls give Japan a scare in Jordan tilt
AMMAN, Jordan—The Alas Pilipinas girls team impressed by putting up a gallant stand against defending champion Japan in a 17-25, 25-21, 16-25, 2025 loss in the Second Asian Volleyball Confederation Asian Women’s U16 Volleyball Championship on Saturday at Princess Sumaya Hall.
Xyz Rayco and Nadeth Herbon introduced themselves on the Asian stage by leading Alas girls’ impressive debut in the U16 championship in front of the Overseas Filipino Workers in Amman cheering for them with AVC and Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara and officials of the Philippine Embassy in Jordan, led by Ambassador Wilfredo C. Santos. Rayco and Herbon led the Philippines’ strong showing in the second set with nine points each to tie the game to one set apiece, but they were dominated by the Japanese in the third frame. Alas held a 12-9 lead in the fourth after Madele Gale’s ace, only for Ren Sugimoto, Miko Takahashi and Rina Hayasaka to rescue Japan, with Hayasaka drilling two consecutive kills to win their first assignment in Pool B.
“We’ll apply everything we learned in Japan in our next game because we know it’s still going to be a tough fight. We’ll keep giving our all and keep fighting until the end,” said team captain Rayco, a 14-year-old opposite spiker from Saint Michael College of Caraga. Japan coach Daichi Saegusa was impressed by the Filipino players, especially setter Resty Jane Olaguir, while Sugimoto praised Rayco.
“It was a difficult game because the Philippines was so good,” Saegusa said. “We couldn’t play well, but this match is going to be good for us because we have more games. It was a good opportunity.” Sugimoto and Takahashi delivered 16 points each for the Japanese, while Hayasaka had 13 points, as they eye a Pool B sweep against Iran on Monday.
Nadera shines as Protectors repel Tamaraws
DON Nadera delivered a scintillating 23-point performance – none bigger than his final two offthe-block kills that sealed Alpha Insurance’s heartstopping come-from-behind 22-25, 25-23, 18-25, 2522, 18-16 victory over FEU-DN Steel in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan on Sunday.
“Sobrang happy at nakuha namin ang panalo. Thank you kay God at ibinigay Niya sa amin,” said an ecstatic Nadera, whose clutch heroics capped a gritty comeback for the Protectors, who stared at defeat multiple times but refused to yield. Nadera’s performance came as a surprise to many. After scoring just two points in a limited stint during their four-set win over Savouge – and sitting out entirely in their five-set loss to Cignal – few expected him to make an impact. But with spark plug JJ Javelona sidelined due to personal reasons, Alpha Insurance head coach Mike Santos turned to Nadera in the second set to replace the struggling Francis Casas. And Nadera rose to the challenge.
After surrendering the third set and facing a fired-up Tamaraws squad, Alpha Insurance found themselves pushed to the edge. But instead of breaking, the Protectors dug deep – rallying behind Nadera’s relentless attacking, their unyielding defense, and a collective display of heart that turned the tide in the fourth and carried into the thrilling decider.
The final frame was a rollercoaster of nerves and momentum shifts. FEU-DN Steel saved multiple match points, but each time, Alpha Insurance answered back with poise and purpose. When the dust settled, it was Nadera who rose above the blockers to deliver the dagger – a fitting finish to a match defined by determination.
Southeast Asia’s best netters await Eala in Thailand SEAG SPORTS
By Peter Atencio
THE region’s best netters are expected to stamp their classes in the women’s division of tennis in the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this December.
With world no. 51 Alexandra Eala seeing action for the Philippines again, rival teams are fielding their own top 200-ranked netters in the world in search of the gold medal at the 33rd edition of the biennial meet.
The 20-year-old Eala is expected hold her ground against Thailand’s Mananchaya “Mai” Sawangkaew and Luksika “Ruangkhaw” Thararudee.
tournament’s runner-up.
Hosted by Thailand from December 9 to 20, the coming women’s tennis meet is said to be drawing many top women’s players in the professional circuit.
The 11 participating countries have submitted the names of top-tier players, with the 21-yearold Sawangkaew ranked at no. 176th, and Thararudee at 171st.
Tjen is at no. 82 as she teams up with Priska Madelyn Nugroho, Eala’s former junior doubles’ partner, now at no. 207.
Nugroho is the reigning women’s singles’ champion at the 2023 SEA Games.
Vietnam will have Savannah Ly Nguyen, a 24-year-old netter, who bagged the bronze medal in the women’s singles event of the
last SEA Games. Nguyen is currently ranked at no. 1,310 and is seen to make a comeback for a medal.
The tennis competition will be held at the National Tennis Development Center in Muang Thong Thani.
At the 32nd SEA Games, hosted by Cambodia, Indonesia claimed the gold in both the women’s singles’ and team events, while Thailand took silver in both categories.
After a gruelling WTA season, Eala has recently officially committed to suit for Team Philippines.
Eala finished her season with an intense three-set match with Canada’s Victoria Mboko.
She went down in a 6-3, 3-6, 4-6 loss to Mboko on Thursday evening in the round of 16 of the Hong Kong Open. Eala earned 30 WTA points and $4,160 (P244,982.40) and is expected to push into the world no. 50, a new career-high.
Tolentino: Coo locked and loaded for gold in SEA Games
PATRICK Coo finished with the bronze medal at the Asian BMX championships in Japan over the weekend to raise hopes for a potential gold at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand next month.
“It’s a strong prelude for Patrick to win the gold medal in Thailand which are a little over a month away,” said Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, who also heads the national federation for cycling, PhilCycling.
“He’s a strong potential for the gold and improve on the two bronze medal our sport got in Cambodia two years ago,” added Tolentino, referring to Ronald Oranza’s two bronze medals in road in 2023 in Siem Reao.
Japanese Asuma Nakai and Ryo Shimada frolicked at home on the Nagoya Keirin Stadium BMX Race Course in Aichi Prefecture to bag gold and silver, respectively, in the eight-athlete race where Filipino Niño Martin Eday finished eight.
Conspicuously absent was Thailand ace Sukprasert, who won the race and time trial gold medals the last time BMX racing was on the SEA Games program during the 30th edition in 2019 in Tagaytay City. Nakai got the maximum 300 UCI ranking points, Shimada earned 258 points and Coo 22 points in the event that also featured riders from Indonesia, Hong Kong and South Korea. Jeanne Soliel Cervantes, meanwhile, was fourth in the Women Junior race behind Korean Kim Yeseo and Thais Praphada and Paphichaya Khongpong. Coo was the Asian junior champion in 2019 to add to his improving credential as he aims for his first Olympic qualification in Los Angeles 2028—Guangzhou 2014 Asian Games champion Daniel Caluag was the first Filipino BMX race to compete in the Olympics in London 2012. BMX racing at the Thailand SEA Games are set December 11 and 12 at the BMX Stadium inside the Kamol Sports Park in Bangkok.
Grassroots to global: PSC to head PBBM’s new sports tourism super team
THE Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) hailed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for putting his stamp of approval on the creation of the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee (NSTIAC) through Administrative Order No. 38.
The President has mandated the NST-IAC to “harmonize, coordinate, and oversee all government initiatives to develop, promote, and sustain sports tourism in the country.”
It stated that the NST-IAC was created to oversee the “development, promotion, and implementation of sports tourism initiatives.”
Under Administrative Order No. 38, which was signed by the President on Oct. 29, 2025, PSC chief Patrick Gregorio will serve as chairman of the NST-IAC with his counterparts from the Department of Tourism (DoT)as vicechairperson; and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Budget
and Management (DBM), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) as members.
Gregorio cited the NST-IAC as “an invaluable recognition of how sports can enable the youth, enable regional development, enable tourism and enable new industries.”
The PSC chief emphasized, “We understand our role. We are enablers. Whether it’s working with DepEd for grassroots development or with the DoT for sports tourism, sports will be a key catalyst and driver of the national agenda.”
Gregorio said the President, an avid sportsman and the biggest supporter of the Filipino athlete, has recognized the hosting of major international sports events as a perfect avenue to promote the country before a global audience.
“The biggest tourism events in the world are sports events.
Sports is a multibillion industry and the Philippines can
from Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. “This is best done in close partnership with the DoT and LGUs that will be hosting these events,” he added.
Then, there’s also Janice Tjen to contend with as the Indonesian ousted Eala in the 2025 Sao Paolo Open quarterfinals and eventually came out as the
The Philippines’ Alex Eala (left) expects a tough ght from Thailand’s Mananchaya Sawangkaew (center) and Indonesia’s Janice Tjen (right) in the coming Thailand SEA Games. AFP
The Alas PH girls
Patrick Coo (right) in action against Asuma Nakai. Patrick Coo FB
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio with Executive Director Guillermo Iroy
Don Nadera
Gov’t approves P50.7-billion Samsung expansion project
By Othel V. Campos
THE government has approved the P50.7-billion expansion project by Samsung Electro-Mechanics Philippines Corp. (SEMPHIL), making it the first company to secure presidential incentives under the CREATE MORE Act (Republic Act 12066).
The expansion, the largest new investment approved under the law to date, will establish a new hightechnology manufacturing facility for multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs).
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co. Ltd. (SEMCO) executives on the sidelines of the 32nd APEC Summit in South Korea from Oct. 30 to Nov. 2. Special Assistant to the President
for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go cited the significance of the approval.
“This is a direct outcome of this administration’s landmark policy reforms. It sends a strong message to the global business community: the Philippines is ready for hightechnology, world-class industries.”
The project is expected to create thousands of new jobs and accelerate technology transfer to Filipino workers.
The P50.7-billion expansion will establish a new high-tech manufacturing facility in the Calamba Premiere International Park, with commercial operations targeted by July 2027.
Over 3,500 additional high-skill jobs are expected to be created once the facility is fully operational, on
top of over 7,000 Filipinos currently employed.
SEMPHIL serves as SEMCO’s main global production hub for MLCCs—critical components in electric vehicles and smart devices— and accounts for nearly half of SEMCO’s global MLCC output.
The approval for enhanced tax perks under the CREATE MORE Act was finalized after Marcos, along with Go and Trade Secretary Cristina Roque, witnessed the signing of a supplemental agreement between Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and SEMPHIL.
The CREATE MORE Act empowers the President to grant incentives to strategic investments upon the recommendation of the Fiscal Incentives Review Board (FIRB).
PH to remain one of fastest-growing economies—DBM
By Darwin G. Amojelar
DEPARTMENT of Budget and Management
(DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman expressed optimism that the Philippines will maintain its position as one of the Asia-Pacific region’s fastest-growing economies, citing confidence in the government’s ongoing fiscal reforms and good governance policies.
Pangandaman delivered a keynote message at the 2025 Fiscal Policy Conference organized by the DBM’s Budget Policy and Strategy Group on Oct. 27, 2025, in Quezon City. She said the DBM remains steadfast in pursuing reforms that promote transparency, accountability and citizen participation in fiscal management.
Despite global headwinds and domestic challenges, the Philippine economy continues to show resilience with manageable inflation and stable employment levels, according to the DBM chief.
She said the government’s fiscal policy direction aims to maintain macroeconomic stability while ensuring inclusive and sustainable growth for all Filipinos.
The reforms are designed to strengthen fiscal discipline, improve spending efficiency, and boost public confidence in government financial systems. Pangandaman noted the agency continues to enhance its policy frameworks to ensure the
national budget serves as a tool for transformation and long-term development.
The conference, held at the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Law, brought together leading economists, governance experts and development partners to discuss ways to strengthen fiscal integrity through transparent governance.
Professor emeritus Solita Monsod of the UP School of Economics discussed how corruption hinders economic growth and erodes the benefits of capital investments. She proposed that clear and consistent rules on public fund utilization be complemented by stronger monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure accountability.
DBM Undersecretary Margaux Salcedo, who moderated the panel discussion, cited the agency’s Project DIME (Digital Imaging for Monitoring and Evaluation) as a tool for tracking projects under the General Appropriations Act.
TYREPLUS OUTLET. TYREPLUS, one of the world’s largest car maintenance service centers, launches its first Philippine outlet on Chino Roces Avenue in Makati City, featuring the brand’s first solar-powered store. The flagship location marks the start of a major expansion plan aiming for 30 stores across the Philippines by 2028.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2025
PH stocks seen moving sideways ahead of October inflation,
Q3 GDP
By Jenniffer B. Austria
SHARE prices are expected to move sideways this week ahead of October inflation and third-quarter gross domestic product (GDP) data.
Analysts said weaker third-quarter economic growth could push the index even lower and could indicate slowing public and consumer spending.
“For [the] market’s general direction, however, we expect investors to take cues from our upcoming macroeconomic data,” Philstocks Financial Inc. said.
“A growth slower than the government’s 5.5 percent to 6.5 percent target for the year may weigh on the market,” it added.
The influx of third-quarter corporate earnings and upcoming manufacturing data will also dictate the market’s movement this week.
Positive results from U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping could also ease global tariff concerns.
Last week, the bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index closed at 5,929.68, down 0.97 percent from the previous week’s close on the weakening of the peso against the dollar and worries about the impact of corruption issues on the domestic economy.
The broader all shares index also went down by 0.41 percent to 3,593.28.
Foreign selling accelerated to P1.578 billion from the previous week’s selling of P560.6 million.
Average daily value traded reached P8.7 billion, lower than P10.15 billion.
CebuPac takes delivery of 13th Airbus A330neo
By Darwin G. Amojelar
CEBU Pacific said it took delivery of its 13th Airbus A330neo aircraft, further bolstering operational resilience and underscoring its leadership as the largest A330neo operator in Asia.
The 459-seat aircraft is the third of four A330neos expected to arrive this year. The first two arrived on March 28 and July 18, respectively.
“Being the largest A330neo operator in Asia reflects our strong commitment to enhancing connectivity across the region. This aircraft enables us to serve more passengers while keeping costs low, which is a key part of our mission to offer affordable fares for every Juan,” said Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer.
By November, Cebu Pacific will begin deploying its A330neo aircraft on additional domestic routes. Starting Nov. 2, the wide-body plane is set to operate between Manila and Puerto Princesa four times weekly, while daily A330neo flights between Manila and Bohol will commence on Nov. 16.
The A330neo provides Cebu Pacific with the flexibility to serve regional and long-haul routes, as well as highdemand sectors. With increased range and capacity, the aircraft enables the airline to optimize its operations while maintaining cost efficiency.
Airbus NEOs are the latest-generation aircraft that burn 15 percent less
AGRIBUSINESS enterprises in the Philippines are at a pivotal juncture. These represent a diverse group of farms and off-farm businesses in the agricultural value chain and consist of farm input manufacturers and suppliers, farm producers, processors, distributors, and retailers, all working to get food and related agro-industrial products (e.g., fiber, bio-energy, natural health products) from the farm to the end-users. With climate change and food insecurity threatening national stability, the strategic management of agribusinesses has become essential to ensuring a sustainable, affordable, and secured food supply.
As of 2025, the Department of Agriculture (DA) and its industry partners have intensified efforts to modernize farming systems, promote environmental stewardship, and enhance value chain competitiveness.
The DA’s Medium-term Strategic Plan had emphasized sustainable agriculture as a cornerstone of food security. It had advocated for environmental stewardship, biodiversity enhancement, and climate change mitigation through appropriate and sustainable farming and food processing and distribution practices. Key interventions included the pursuit of climate-smart and digital agriculture and aquaculture; promotion of climate-resilient crops, expansion of organic farming with the utilization of integrated pest management practices, and
fuel per flight and produce less noise compared to the previous generation. The reduction in fuel consumption leads to a corresponding reduction in aircraft carbon emissions.
In the first nine months of the year, Cebu Pacific flew nearly 20 million
passengers, a 13.9 percent increase from 17.5 million in 2024.
Domestic passengers expanded by 12.7 percent to 14.9 million, while international passengers grew 17.7 percent to 5.1 million. The average seat load factor (SLF) was 84.8 percent for the period, while overall capacity in seats was up 14 percent to 23.5 million.
Cebu Pacific offers the widest network coverage in the Philippines with 37 domestic and 26 international destinations. It operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, with a fleet of 98 aircraft.
Cebu Pacific, the Philippines’ leading carrier, expands its widebody fleet with the delivery of its 13th Airbus A330neo aircraft, bolstering operational resilience and underscoring its leadership as the largest A330neo operator in Asia. The 459-seater aircraft, which arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport from Airbus’ facility in Toulouse, France, is the third of four A330neos expected to arrive this year. The first two arrived on March 28 and July 18, respectively.
PLDT Inc. chairman and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan is this year’s recipient of the Asia CEO Awards’ Lifetime Contribution Award for his enduring leadership and impact on Philippine business and nationbuilding.
PLDT Inc. chairman and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan is this year’s recipient of the Asia CEO Awards’ Lifetime Contribution Award for his enduring leadership and impact on Philippine business and nation-building.
“Applause has a short echo. What lasts longer is our obligation to keep contributing—to keep our institutions sound, and to keep our next generation of leaders engaged, prepared, and dreaming,” Pangilinan, chairman of the MVP group, said.
These words resonated deeply during the Asia CEO Awards 2025, where he was honored for his enduring leadership and impact.
In a message delivered on his behalf by Meralco PowerGen Corporation president and chief executive Emmanuel Rubio, Pangilinan reminded leaders that while achievements may fade, integrity, perseverance and service remain the true measures of success.
He shared that after a lifetime in business, what endures are not the titles or milestones, but the people who continue to believe that “hard work—rendered with integrity and tenacity—still matters.” Pangilinan urged the youth to find fulfillment not only in success, but in service, emphasizing that the nation’s progress depends on the next generation doing even better than those who came before them.
At the same event, Pangilinan’s telecommunications units, PLDT and Smart, were recognized among the Circle of Excellence awardees for CSR Company of the Year, underscoring the PLDT group’s commitment to uplifting Filipino communities through technology-enabled programs.
Managing agribusiness enterprises in the Philippines
investments in renewable energy for postharvest facilities, farm input manufacture, and processing of agricultural produce.
Agribusiness enterprises have continuously sought more efficient ways to produce and market food in order to lower production costs, gain market access, and improve supply chain efficiency. Strategies included the utilization of (a) digital platforms for online transactions, traceability, and farmer-to-market linkages; (b) cluster-based agribusiness models that can effectively integrate smallholder farm production with farm input manufacture, processing and distribution; and (c) publicprivate partnerships to scale up agro-processing and cold chain infrastructure. The government’s multi-agency approach had reinforced agribusiness transformation to contribute to the realization of a sustainable, affordable, and secured food supply. The key initiatives which have been pursued included support for the establishment of a robust data-driven decisionmaking and monitoring system. The DA and partner institutions are investing in (a) geospatial mapping for crop planning and disaster risk reduction; (b) real-time market intelligence to guide pricing and inventory decisions; and (c) performance dashboards to monitor KPIs across farm input production, farming operations, post- farm production, and logistics, among others.
Managing agribusiness enterprises in the Philippines for a sustainable, affordable, and secured food supply demands strategic foresight, inclusive policies, and technological innovation.
Opportunities for innovation and collaboration in digitalization of agriculture and utilization of artificial intelligence (AI), robotics process automation (RPA), and block chain to advance precision farming and food processing are visible in the horizon. These emerging technologies offer new frontiers for agribusiness. For example, AI-powered crop and livestock monitoring can detect pests and diseases early; RPA in food processing can streamline quality control and packaging; and block chain-based traceability systems can enhance food safety and consumer trust. Cross-sector collaboration is also vital. Universities, NGOs, and industry must codevelop solutions, share best practices, and pilot scalable models.
Managing agribusiness enterprises in the Philippines for a sustainable, affordable,
and secured food supply demands strategic foresight, inclusive policies, and technological innovation. Challenges which are associated with climate risks, market fragmentation, and resource constraints continue to persist. As the agro-food sector evolves in challenging times, agribusinesses must embrace adaptive strategies, foster collaboration, and champion sustainability. Farmers, off-farm agribusiness entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders must remain committed. Only then can the Philippines build a resilient food system that nourishes its people with an affordable and safe food supply, uplifts the farming communities, and secures its future.
Dr. Louie A. Divinagracia is a Registered Agriculturist and a Past President of the Philippine Association of Agriculturists. He is actively mentoring PhD Business and Doctor or Business Administration students in the areas of business research, marketing science, and entrepreneurship theory at the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University. He can be reached at louie.divinagracia@ dlsu.edu.ph.
The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.
Philippine Stock Exchange Tower in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
BUSINESS
Energy investments remain strong, says DOE
By Alena Mae S. Flores
SINGAPORE — The Department
of Energy
(DOE) assured that foreign investor interest in the energy sector remains strong and unaffected by ongoing issues regarding corruption in flood control projects.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin told reporters at a briefing during the Singapore International Energy Week that President Ferdinand Marcos initiated the investigation into the issue, which reflects his administration’s move toward transparency and accountability. She said this should send the right signals to foreign investors.
“I’m very bullish about energy projects. It’s private-driven, in foreign in-
DOE probes deadly fire at Pagbilao coal plant unit 3
THE Department of Energy (DOE)
is investigating the cause of the fire at Unit 3 of the Pagbilao coal plant in Ibabang Polo, Pagbilao, Quezon, around 9 p.m. Oct. 31, which resulted in one fatality and injuries to nine plant personnel.
The 420-megawatt (MW) coal plant is currently shut down “pending full investigation and assessment of the accident,” said DOE Undersecretary Mario Marasigan.
Before the incident, Pagbilao Unit 3 was operating at 131 MW and subsequently tripped at 9:32 p.m.
“We are working on all issues related to this accident, including assessment of possible grid and market impacts,” he said.
Initial reports showed that while Pagbilao Unit 3, operated by Aboitiz Power Corp., remains on forced outage, no congestion or abnormal prices were monitored at the spot market during the incident period, and normal market operations are currently being implemented.
Power demand in Luzon was between 8,000 MW and 8,500 MW compared to an available supply of 12,000 MW. As a result, the Pagbilao fire did not have a significant impact on spot market prices, which remain at less than P2 per kilowatthour (kWh).
Meanwhile, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin offered condolences to the family of the plant fatality and expressed hope for the full and swift recovery of the nine injured personnel.
Garin said three of the affected personnel were from Therma Luzon Inc. (TLI) and seven were from contractors.
She said the injured were immediately brought to the nearest medical facility and are now in stable condition. Alena Mae S. Flores
vestments also,” Garin said. “But if I see it, what’s happening, our President is quite straightforward about it.”
“He’s even the one who started the whole thing. He was the one who said there’s a problem with these projects. So it’s not like he’s hiding it. He wants transparency and fair and everything is accountable, whoever is accountable.”
Garin continued: “So I think for our investors, that should be an assurance
that the current administration is being very transparent. He holds those, whether you’re in high position or not, he makes those that are accountable, accountable. So I think the confidence,
we should have even more confidence in this administration because it shows that we are determined to make sure that this is a well-run administration.”
She said this bullishness regarding energy investments is shown in the strong interest and oversubscription of the Green Energy Auction Program.
“That’s shown by the many, for example, these past two days, the many meetings we’ve had of many investors from all over the world wanting to invest in the Philippines. So I think it’s still very positive, and I don’t think it’s anything to worry about as far as energy is concerned,” Garin said.
Energy Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella said the DOE has also received interest in the upstream oil industry, especially after the signing of
SAFETY SESSION. Students from the Philippine School for the Deaf participate in an ‘LRT-1 KaligtaSakay’ session, learning vital safety skills. LRT-1 private operator Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) launched the safety education program in 2023, which equips elementary and high school students and school personnel with essential knowledge directly applicable to both daily life and emergencies, including those triggered by natural disasters.
PH secures rice diversity, sends seeds to Svalbard vault
By Othel V. Campos
THE Philippines has deposited 4,417 rice seed samples at the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway, the first time in four decades that the country has stored duplicates of its rice varieties outside the national gene bank.
The shipment was prepared by the Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), which has been collecting and documenting rice genetic resources since the 1980s.
PhilRice said it plans to send another batch of accessions next
INSTITUTIONAL LINKAGES. Clark Development Corporation (CDC) deepens its institutional linkages as it hosted the Board of Trustees of the
(seated, third from left), who highlighted Clark’s emergence as a premier investment destination and a hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE).
year to strengthen the country’s long-term conservation efforts.
Located on Spitsbergen Island in the Arctic Circle, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault serves as a global backup facility for crop seeds in case of natural disasters, conflict, climate threats or other largescale disruptions.
Opened in 2008, the vault receives new deposits several times a year from countries and seed banks worldwide.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the deposit ensures protection of the country’s rice diversity in the event of calamities affecting
local collections.
The samples include traditional heirloom varieties from the Cordillera region, commercial varieties such as Dinorado and Milagrosa, and modern hybrids bred for climate resilience.
PhilRice Executive Director John de Leon said the external storage provides “insurance” against the irreversible loss of rice genetic material stored in the Philippines.
The Svalbard deposit forms part of ongoing efforts to preserve crop biodiversity and ensure future access to planting material for research, breeding and food security programs.
Meralco forecasts flat sales electricity growth in 2025, expects recovery in 2026
POWER retailer Manila Electric
Co. expects a flat growth in electricity sales volume for the full year 2025 as sales continued to be sluggish in the first nine months.
“For the full year, I think we’re looking at between 0.5 percent negative to 0.8 percent. So technically, it’s still flattish,” Meralco senior vice president and chief revenue officer Ferdinand Geluz said.
“While we energize a lot of customers, so additional 194,000 in net count. We’re at 8.18 million now compared to last year. So that’s a differential of 194,000. These newly energized customers have to be added around 750 gigawatt-hours, if I’m
not mistaken,” Geluz said.
“But the thing is, we had some sort of what we call organic contraction. Technically, because the extreme temperature last year compared to this year, we lost around 950, around 910-something gigawatt-hours. So net on net, we’re minus 160 gigawatt-hours,” he said.
Meralco consolidated energy sales was flattish at 40,719 GWh for the first nine months from 40,872 GWh a year ago.
Meralco, which brought in the bulk of the volumes, had a marginal 0.4 percent decrease due to an extended period of inclement weather that affected demand in the residential and commercial segments. Alena Mae S. Flores
Philippine Airlines pivots to luxury travel, seeks new routes to Maldives, Palau
By Darwin G. Amojelar
PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) is pivoting its strategy toward premium leisure, targeting new routes to the luxury island paradise of the Maldives and the world-class diving mecca of Palau. In a filing with the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), the Lucio Tan-led airline requested flight allocation of entitlements to the Maldives under the PhilippinesMaldives Air Services Agreement in 2018. The agreement allows each country’s designated carriers an initial weekly entitlement of 1,200 seats between Manila and the Maldivian capital, Malé. PAL’s move aims to capitalize on the increasing travel demand to the Maldives, an island nation renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and unique marine life. Data from Maldives Immigration shows that tourist arrivals from
the Philippines totaled 5,874 from January to September of this year. PAL also applied for flight entitlements to Palau under the Philippines-Palau Air Services Agreement. Palau is world-renowned for its pristine marine environment, including the famous Rock Islands Southern Lagoon (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), diverse coral reefs and the unique Jellyfish Lake. Available data from Palau Visitors Authority showed that tourist
arrivals from the Philippines totaled 258 from January to April this year. PAL earlier said it is expanding its flight schedules and capacity across key international routes, deploying larger aircraft and adding dozens of frequencies to meet surging holiday travel demand from late 2025 to early 2026. The airline is increasing its flights from Manila to Perth in Australia, Busan in South Korea, Sapporo and Narita in Japan; Narita; Seattle in the U.S. as well as from Cebu to Guam.
eight service contracts.
“And there are three more additional that the DOE worked on. There’s another three more in the works,” he said.
Garin said a Middle Eastern country, Abu Dhabi, wanted to check if they can also invest in upstream in the Philippines.
“So I think they are aware it’s privatedriven, and it’s not about corruption per se. So it’s more like we’re just establishing ourselves as good policymakers as far as energy is concerned,” she said. Fuentebella said investors are also very happy about the energy policies in place in the Philippines.
“And as far as policies are concerned, they also told us that the policies in the Philippines, the fundamentals are in place. So it’s very predictable,” he said.
Ateneo de Manila Law Alumni Association, Inc. (ALAAI) and Region 3 Ateneo Law alumni at the Clark Visitors Center on Oct. 18. Leading the engagement is CDC president and chief executive Agnes VST Devanadera
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin
IN BRIEF
SEC proposes wider audit exemption for small firms
By Jenniffer B. Austria
THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is pushing to exempt more corporations, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), from the mandatory submission of audited financial statements (AFS) to reduce compliance costs.
fiscal years ending on or after Dec. 31, 2025. The move aims to ease regulatory and financial burdens on micro enterprises.
SEC chairman Francisco Lim said the move is part of the SEC’s commitment to improving the business environment for entrepreneurs.
also help reduce incidents of “rubberstamp audits,” lower barriers to registration, and simplify compliance obligations for small firms, allowing the commission to focus its supervision on higher-risk entities.
While seeking to remove the audit requirement for smaller firms, the SEC said it would retain regulatory oversight over these companies.
The SEC, in a policy paper submitted to the Department of Finance (DOF), recommended raising the audit exemption threshold to corporations with total assets or liabilities not exceeding P3 million. The current threshold requires firms with at least P600,000 in total assets or liabilities to submit AFS prepared by an independent certified public accountant. The proposal suggests that firms falling below the new P3-million limit would instead submit annual financial statements certified under oath by their treasurer or chief financial officer, in lieu of audited statements.
Economists see slightly faster October inflation
By Thony Rose Lesaca
ECONOMISTS expect inflation
to have inched up in October on the back of higher food and electricity prices and a weaker peso, but the rate likely remained below the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) 2 percent to 4 percent target range.
Four out of six economists polled by Manila Standard projected faster inflation in October, compared to 1.7 percent in September.
This is in line with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) projection that inflation likely settled between 1.4 percent and 2.2 percent in October. The mid-point of the BSP’s forecast range is 1.8 percent, which is slightly higher than September’s 1.7 percent.
Bank of the Philippine Islands lead economist Jun Neri said headline inflation likely rose to 1.8 percent in October on the back of higher costs of rice, vegetables, fish and electricity, along with a weaker peso.
“Upside risks to inflation are building as favorable rice base effects fade and the extension of the rice import suspension through year-end adds further pressure,” said Neri.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp.
chief economist Michael Ricafort projected inflation likely settled at 1.8 percent, noting offsetting risks from potentially volatile global oil prices, a stronger dollar and transitory increase in food prices after the onslaught of calamities in the second half of the year.
If approved by the DOF, the higher exemption is slated to take effect for
“We have repeatedly said that MSMEs are the backbone of the Philippine economy,” Lim said, adding that the proposal would “not only improve the ease of doing business, but will also cut unnecessary compliance requirements for micro entities, in support of the government’s goal of driving inclusive economic development.”
The SEC believes the proposal will
The existing P600,000 threshold is outlined in Revised Rule 68 of the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act No. 8799, or the Securities Regulation Code.
The Revised Corporation Code (RCC) Section 74 authorizes the DOF to determine the threshold for requiring AFS.
FAST Logistics to hire 4Ps beneficiaries, support gov’t efforts to provide jobs
FAST Logistics Group, a leading endto-end logistics company, has teamed up with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region IV-A to generate jobs for beneficiaries of the government’s flagship poverty alleviation program, the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).
The initiative, signed through a memorandum of agreement (MOA), supports the government’s efforts to provide sustainable jobs
Batangas forum backs Meralco-BATELEC
A GROUP of Batangas business and civic leaders has thrown its support behind the proposed joint venture between Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and Batangas II Electric Cooperative (BATELEC II), citing the need to address frequent power problems that disrupt local businesses and growth. The Batangas Forum for Good Governance and Development Association Inc. formalized its full endorsement in a resolution dated Oct. 29, 2025, signed by its chairman, president, vice president and board of trustees. The group, composed of professionals and Batangas residents, has been
flagging power quality and reliability issues in areas served by BATELEC II.
Citing Meralco’s operational and financial track record, the Batangas forum believes the distribution utility can introduce necessary investments, systems and operational discipline to provide more dependable service to communities and local enterprises. Meralco has already achieved success in Batangas City, Sto. Tomas City and San Pascual.
The group said a partnership between electric cooperatives like BATELEC II and the private sector offers concrete solutions for infrastructure modernization, strengthening the electricity distribution system, and
and uplift low-income families, while also helping address the organization’s growing manpower needs.
The agreement was signed by FAST chief executive for logistics Manuel Onrejas Jr. and DSWD Region IV-A regional director Barry Chua.
“Our commitment to providing Logistics Para Sa Bayan not only involves moving goods from Point A to Point B, but also moving lives forward and uplifting Filipino
II joint venture
responding to growing consumer power demand.
BATELEC II distributes electricity in the cities of Lipa and Tanauan and 15 municipalities including Alitagtag, Balete, Cuenca, Laurel, Lobo, Malvar, Mataas na Kahoy, Mabini, Padre Garcia, Rosario, San Jose, San Juan, Talisay, Taysan and Tingloy.
The Batangas forum said the joint venture is a vital step toward achieving more reliable and efficient electricity service. The group also called on BATELEC II to protect employee welfare, promote professional development and maintain fair employment opportunities throughout the process.
communities,” said Onrejas.
“With our partnership with DSWD IV-A, we empower 4Ps beneficiaries with stable employment and growth opportunities,” he said. Under the agreement, FAST will prioritize qualified 4Ps beneficiaries in its recruitment efforts. The company committed to ensuring that all new hires benefit from decent, safe and inclusive workplaces aligned with labor laws and social protection standards.
FAST said it would hold an exclusive job fair for 4Ps beneficiaries in Laguna on Nov. 12, offering opportunities in logistics operations, particularly warehousing and other key business functions.
The collaboration also includes joint advocacy programs and job placement initiatives designed to strengthen employment outcomes for 4Ps beneficiaries across CALABARZON.
DAILY Beer Co. Ltd., a popular Korean chain with over 400 stores globally, is bringing its award-winning combination of Korean-style crispy fried chicken and freshly brewed craft beer, known as “chimaek,” to the Philippines with its first store at Arcovia City in Pasig.
Daily Beer teamed up with Opulence Prime Ventures Inc. as its major franchisor in the Philippines. The brand, which has built a significant following in Korea, offers an easygoing atmosphere for an international dining experience.
The restaurant will feature its well-loved staples, including the Daily Chicken fried to a golden crunch, served with flavorful sauces and seasonings. Other crowd favorites on the menu include Gimbap, Tteokbokki and the sweet and sour Chicken
Gangjeong. The exclusive, award-winning craft beers will be served extra cold, promising a crisp, satisfying sip.
Daily Beer Philippines said the flagship store would introduce Daily Beer’s finest collection of Korean craft beers paired with comfort food favorites. The store is expected become a go-to destination for Filipinos looking for quality, flavor and a laid-back place to gather with friends.
Attending the recent signing ceremony are Daily Beer Co. Ltd. Korea chief executive Sang Jin Lim and representatives from local partner Opulence Prime Ventures Inc. including chairman Kirkland Whang, president Kennard Pua and Managing Director Tanya Apostol-Whang.
By Jenniffer B. Austria
ETON Properties, the real estate arm of Lucio Tan Group, believes that every development should be more than just a building—it should serve the people who live, work, and grow within it. From high-rise residences in vibrant urban centers to peaceful communities near green spaces, each project is thoughtfully designed to be sustainable, functional, and truly livable.
The Ultimate Connector:
Eton Tower Makati
Eton’s featured developments in Makati, the country’s central business district, reflect its vision for futureforward living. These developments are rooted in convenience, comfort, and a commitment to quality— offering homes that fit a range of lifestyles while staying closely connected to the pulse of the city.
One of the best examples of this is the award-winning Eton Tower Makati.
Located at the corner of Dela Rosa and V.A. Rufino Streets, this mixed-
use tower was designed with the modern urban professional in mind. Its biggest advantage is its direct access to Makati’s elevated pedestrian walkway system. From here, residents are connected to offices, shopping malls, banks, and transit points. Inside, the units are compact but thoughtfully laid out. From studio to one-bedroom options, each space offers a blend of function and style, tailored to busy professionals and investors who value smart, citycentered living. On the ground floor, retail and dining options make everyday errands and meet-ups easy
REAL ESTATE
Living well, living forward with Eton Properties
and accessible.
At Eton Tower Makati, everything you need is quite literally just steps away. A Breath of Fresh Air:
Eton Parkview Greenbelt
For those who prefer a calmer, more private setting without straying far from the city’s energy, Eton Parkview Greenbelt offers a refreshing alternative.
Tucked along Gamboa Street in Legazpi Village, this residential condominium is nestled beside two of Makati’s rare green spaces: Washington SyCip Park and Legazpi Active Park. The quiet charm of this location makes it unique in the city, offering both a tranquil escape and unmatched proximity to the Makati Central Business District.
The development features loftstyle one- and two-bedroom units, each designed with high ceilings and oversized windows that invite in natural light and frame the lush park views. It’s a low-density building, which means fewer units and more
privacy for residents. And because it’s within walking distance of Greenbelt Mall, restaurants, and offices, it offers the convenience of city living without the usual noise and rush. Where Luxe Meets Green: The Eton Residences Greenbelt
Then there’s The Eton Residences Greenbelt, a property that combines luxury, sustainability, and smart design in one iconic address.
Standing 39 storeys tall along Legazpi Street and directly across from Greenbelt Mall, this all-loft residential tower offers spacious, double-height units in one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts. Each unit is flooded with light through large windows, creating open, airy spaces that elevate daily living.
But beyond its architectural beauty, the development incorporates a range of sustainable features and energyefficient elements. From its green design principles to its prime location that encourages walkability, The Eton Residences Greenbelt represents
a new kind of urban lifestyle— one that values both elegance and environmental mindfulness. Together, these three developments show how Eton Properties is reshaping urban living—by creating homes that are not only stylish and connected but also deeply considered in how they
Blakes Tower: A prime Makati address where convenience meets ambition
By Jude Sulit
IN THE heart of Makati’s western part of central business district stands Blakes Tower, a residence that lets you live smarter and go further. Located within the two-hectare mixeduse Eton WestEnd Square, this readyfor-occupancy development offers the convenience and energy of city living without the usual stress.
Blakes Tower is in a more peaceful side of the city yet remains highly connected to Makati’s business and lifestyle hubs. With residential, office, and retail spaces all within one address, it delivers the kind of seamless everyday experience that modern urban dwellers value.
Whether you’re starting out, seeking more space, or transitioning into a new lifestyle, Blakes Tower offers the flexibility to bring you closer to your goals.
More Than a Home. It’s a Move.
Strategically located at the corner of Chino Roces, Malugay, and Yakal Streets, Blakes Tower gives you direct access to major roads, key establishments, and dynamic neighborhoods. It has Studio, One-Bedroom, and Two-Bedroom units suited for
young professionals, city-based families, and property investors alike.
This is not just a place to live. It is a space designed for purposeful city living. Blakes Tower combines comfort with practicality, making everyday routines easier and more fulfilling. Here, you’re investing in a lifestyle that adapts to your pace and supports your ambitions. Work. Live. Win.
At Blakes Tower, you are always close to everything that matters. Major business hubs, shopping centers, schools, and hospitals are just minutes away. Within the tower, you will find thoughtfully curated amenities that elevate everyday living. These include adult and kiddie pools, a fitness gym, music and recreation rooms, an events hall, landscaped gardens, and a Sky Lounge that offers a stunning view of the city skyline. These spaces allow residents to unwind, recharge, and connect right outside your doorstep.
From Here, You Go Further Blakes Tower is positioned at the intersection of opportunity and convenience. With move-in ready units and a future-forward design, it of-
fers a smart and flexible home base for those building a life in the city.
Whether you are a professional, entrepreneur, creative, or growing family, this address is built to match your rhythm and support your next move. Smart Investment, Long-Term Value Blakes Tower also presents strong potential for rental income and longterm growth. With steady demand from students, young professionals, and city-based renters, it offers an attractive opportunity in a location poised for continued value appreciation. Its mixed-use design, central location, and accessibility make it a sound addition to any property portfolio.
Whether you’re relocating, investing, or finding a place to grow, Blakes Tower is designed to move with you. Here, you’re not just buying a unit. You’re stepping into a future-ready address where convenience meets ambition.
Make your next move count in the heart of Makati, in the center of everything.
Discover more about Blakes Tower, visit www.eton.com.ph.
Perfectly situated in Makati’s financial hub, Eton Tower Makati brings you closer to business, lifestyle, and convenience.
The lobby of Eton Tower Makati welcomes residents and guests with contemporary and timeless comfort.
in the heart of Makati’s premier lifestyle district. Eton Residences Greenbelt combines luxury, comfort, and unmatched accessibility.
Experience the charm of loft-style living at Eton Parkview Greenbelt, where you can wake up to lush park views and enjoy the vibrant Greenbelt lifestyle just steps away.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
Universal says struck first licensing deal for AI music
RECORDING industry giant Universal
Music Group said Thursday it had struck a licensing deal with AI music generation startup Udio, in an industryfirst tie-up aiming to launch an AI creation platform next year.
Universal and Udio said in a statement that their platform, as yet unnamed, “will be powered by new cutting-edge generative AI technology that will be trained on authorized and licensed music.”
They added that they had settled an outstanding copyright infringement case, without specifying the financial terms.
The agreement comes as artists, from authors to musicians and video game developers, fear eventual replacement by AI models trained on decades of human-produced creative output, while music streaming platforms already report a rising flood of computergenerated songs.
AI firms, from industry leader OpenAI to music specialists like Udio and competitor Suno, have previously been accused by major record companies of using their songs to “train” artificial intelligence models, which can produce music that apes human artists.
Rightsholders have demanded stricter limits on the AI developers’ activities, including transparency on what source material they have used and guarantees for their revenue.
Startups were “engaged in the largest copyright infringement exercise that has been seen,” International Confederation of Music Publishers (ICMP) boss John Phelan told AFP last month.
And the Recording Industry Association of America, a US trade group, filed a lawsuit in June 2024 against both Udio and Suno.
By contrast, Thursday’s tie-up showed the way towards “a healthy commercial AI ecosystem in which artists, songwriters, music companies, and technology companies can all flourish,” UMG chief Lucian Grainge said. Broader talks between music companies and tech firms on how to license works for AI remain underway. AFP
Turning heartbreak into a song of healing
By Jasper Valdez
FOR Seb Pajarillo, every heartbreak leaves a mark—and in his case, it came in the form of a song. His latest GMA Playlist release, ‘‘Guhit,’’ became a reflection of that turning point when pain starts to fade and acceptance slowly takes its place.
At 23, the Sparkle artist admits the song hits close to home. After all, it was recorded not long after the end of his four-year relationship, and the emotions were still raw when he stepped into the studio.
“It was tough,” he said during the media conference for Sparkle’s new OPM lineup. “I was singing about moving on while I was still in that stage of trying to accept it. Every line felt too real.”
The track, composed by Rina Mercado, turned into Seb’s way of working through what he couldn’t say out loud. He shared that there were moments during the recording when his voice would shake—the words catching up to feelings he hadn’t fully processed. Outside the booth, Seb found comfort in staying busy. Acting, he said, became his escape. “Showbiz helped me
handle it better. Whenever I’m on set, I get to release what I feel through my characters. Work keeps me grounded.”
Despite its melancholic theme, the song isn’t about regret. It’s quiet healing that’s less about forgetting and more about learning to live with what was left behind.
“You move on by accepting that you once loved,” Seb said.
“Even if it didn’t last, it’s still part of who you are.”
For Seb, singing and acting come from the same place—both only work when you’re being honest about what you feel.
“If you can sing with feeling, you can act with feeling,” he said. “Pareho lang silang may puso.”
Seb said he’s learned to stay grounded by focusing on the work itself instead of chasing fame, believing that passion will always outlast popularity.
“I dream of one day holding my own concert where people can sing along to my songs,” he shared. “But even the simple moments, like hearing your music playing somewhere in public, already mean a lot.”
For now, his latest release stands as his most personal project so far—a song that turned personal struggle into purpose and showed a side of him that fans haven’t seen before.
The track is now available on digital streaming platforms under GMA Playlist.
By Rolando Ng III
MANUEL Quezon is “Casey” in the eyes of anyone who would agree to challenge the long historical claim of him being one of our finest statesmen.
This is what Jerrold Tarog’s Quezon invites us to assess in (re)educating the life of the country’s second president, who successfully built the country’s consciousness into its image today. Quezon, a two-hour film released by TBA Studios, is a movie worth spending your money on if you are a history buff or if your mind is wired enough to decode and recode the images of “heroes” we may have come to learn from our history. It steered away from conventional “heroism” in its visual design and score. For one, it completely combined the milieu of the events that transpired in his long career in politics with the trends of its times. The livery of silent films was encapsulated with the big band and rondalla musical setting that served as a force in pushing the entire narrative of his story.
But it did achieve its purpose of dismantling the longstanding notion of Quezon. Jericho Rosales played a cunning and playful Casey, a nickname given to him by American
Governor General Leonard Wood. He was nothing short of possessing tricks from his Amerikana by way of his persuasion and pressure. He was all set to gain everything for himself, even if he shunned allies and wellmeaning words of advice. Jericho’s “Quezon” was filled with rage and ambition, attaining his reason for being the country’s image. He attempted to embody a man who was a politician. But by the good looks of his, it failed to aesthetically describe an old man who became president at the age of 57. He made Casey look young and lively enough that he became too polished for the screen. Romnick Sarmenta was Sergio Osmeña, Quezon’s wimpy sidekick. He characterized the Cebuano politician as a man who was so drawn to Casey’s deceit. He kept on entertaining his requests even if it ultimately disadvantaged him in the end. In reality, Serging was a few inches taller than Manuel. In the film, it was the opposite. It treated him as a punching bag by way of his height, stance, and reserved personality. The consequential twist here was Aguinaldo, portrayed by Mon Confiado He was extremely villainized in Heneral
Luna, but, curiously enough, the now revered revolutionary leader was given a reappraisal for his personality. He was severely betrayed by Casey’s move to strip him of his land, titles, praises, and pension during their feud in the campaign. But he refused to retaliate, to a point where he was seen shaking nervously in his debate speech. He strove to be his opponent’s antithesis, constructing a campaign laden with honor.
An “honorable” campaign—something that Casey trumped down in favor of propaganda and promises. He strove his best to win without any hitch. Yet his battle was without blood. It was all spectacle that advanced his cause of “independence,” a word that he carried for his own good. Maybe we do not deserve our own “nationalism.” Maybe we could have been an American state living in their own cloud nine. But try to step back and ask: have we given some time to understand what independence really is?
If Tarog’s Quezon makes you think as you step out from your seat, then it has achieved its purpose. Quezon has to make you think. As such, Quezon is not for the faint-minded.
Seb Pajarillo finds comfort in music and acting as ways to express honesty and healing
Seb Pajarillo (rightmost) joins fellow Sparkle artists Shaun Salvador (leftmost) and Akira Kurata (center) at the media launch of their new singles
Seb Pajarillo reflects on heartbreak and growth through his latest GMA Playlist single, ‘Guhit’
Jericho Rosales portrays former president Manuel L. Quezon in Jerrold Tarog’s political drama ‘Quezon’
Universal Music Group finalizes a landmark licensing deal with AI music startup Udio to develop an authorized generative music platform
Why travel insurance matters during the holiday season
AS
For those traveling to Europe, BDO Insure also provides Schengen Visa–compliant plans with COVID-19 coverage.
Manila’s elite gather for dark glamour at ‘New Nocturnals’ Halloween ball
By Nickie Wang
ANDREA Brillantes turned heads after showing up almost unrecognizable in a black cat costume at the “New Nocturnals” Halloween ball in Makati City on Wednesday night.
The 22-year-old actress went full feline fantasy at the star-studded event organized by Raymond Gutierrez and Ash Rye, the duo behind the Opulence Ball.
“The theme was nocturnal and cars, nocturnal animals,” she said on the red carpet. “Naalala ko nung bata ako, kwentuhan sa yaya ko… pag may nakita ka na itim na pusa, nagta-transform daw sila into a human. Ito yun.”
The actress said her transformation took more than four hours to complete. She and her team began preparing as early as 3:00 p.m. to make it to the 8:00 p.m. call time.
“The scariest thing is pag maligo ako mamaya, kinakabahan ako. Sana matanggal ko itong lahat,” she said in jest.
Brillantes, who looks forward to Halloween every year with elaborate costumes, said she doesn’t feel pressured to surpass her past looks.
“Ever since I was a kid, mahilig ako sa Halloween. Dito ko na-express creativity ko,” she said, adding that her only worry is spending too much on costumes.
The New Nocturnals transformed Shooting Gallery Studios into a den of dark glamour, where celebrities and influencers showcased eerie yet stylish looks.
Kyline Alcantara mixed handsome and haunting with a tuxedo jacket, half-ghoul mask, and cropped blonde wig, while Michelle Dee went theatrical in a jesterinspired outfit featuring massive shoulder pads, a matching hat, and a
tulle-trimmed skirt.
Drag Den Philippines alum Shewarma turned heads with a satirical “Sarah Disgrasya” costume, complete with spectacles, a mole, and a suitcase labeled “ghost projects.”
Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin attended their first Halloween ball together in matching mummy-
TRAVELING to Europe is a dream come true for many Filipinos chasing new adventures. It’s where centuriesold landmarks meet vibrant city life, and every train ride takes you to a whole new vibe. From the cafés of Paris and the canals of Amsterdam to the busy streets of Rome and the chill scenes in Switzerland, every stop brings something worth the story. Whether you’re there to explore, study, or just take it all in, staying connected makes the experience even better. Globe has expanded its GoRoam offers, giving Filipinos traveling
inspired ensembles, while Barbie Imperial channeled a siren in a black-and-green gown with a scale finish.
Kylie Verzosa appeared as a haunting bride, complete with a lace veil and heart-shaped purse. Jillian Ward went gothic in a beaded black dress and veil, clutching an anatomical heart accessory she joked she “broke” herself. Also spotted were Ruffa and Richard
abroad more affordable and flexible data options across Asia-Pacific, North America, and now Europe. The telecom company introduced new GoRoam packs designed to match different travel needs and budgets, with data options starting at P300 for seven days. Longer 30-day packs are also available for those staying overseas for extended periods. With its latest expansion, Globe brings GoRoam to Europe for the first time, strengthening its global reach and positioning itself as a reliable travel partner for Filipino tourists, students, and professionals abroad.
Gutierrez dressed as Morticia Addams and a ghoul, as well as Darren Espanto, Viñas Deluxe, and Hayden Kho, who embraced the “dark, edgy, and sexy” theme.
Gutierrez said the concept behind the event was to explore the “dark creatures inside all of us.” Following last year’s disco-themed Opulence Ball, he and Rye wanted something “different and unexpected.”
“I have to say, the crowd this year really stepped it up,” Gutierrez said. “They understood the assignment. There were so many best-dressed people with amazing looks.”
“Roaming is no longer expensive. With Globe GoRoam, our customers enjoy the most affordable rates, even cheaper than popular international eSIMs,” said Paula Rivera-Castillo, head of Globe International Business. “From weekend getaways to month-long Euro trips, there’s now a GoRoam pack for you.” Launched in 2023, GoRoam initially disrupted the roaming market by offering rates close to local SIM prices in key destinations. The updated program now provides multiple data pack denominations per country, allowing travelers to choose plans that fit their data needs.
In destinations such as South Korea, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Australia, and Japan, GoRoam’s new rates are more affordable than many eSIM and travel platform options. In Japan, the service even offers higher data allocations than competing eSIMs. Unlike eSIMs that work only on certain devices, GoRoam is compatible with all phones and requires no complex setup. Users can activate their roaming packs within minutes via the GlobeOne app or GCash. The service also allows travelers to continue receiving one-time passwords (OTPs) for secure account access while abroad.
“Globe is here to change the way Filipinos think about roaming,” RiveraCastillo said. “With GoRoam’s multiple pack options and expanded destinations, we’re making global travel simpler and more affordable than ever before.” GoRoam packs can be booked in advance through the GlobeOne app or GCash.
Barbie Imperial stuns as a mythical siren in a blackand-green gown complete with scales and fins
Michelle Dee went for a jester-inspired ensemble with bold shoulders and geometric patterns
Kyline Alcantara is a humanghoul hybrid for the ‘New Nocturnals’ Halloween event
With Globe GoRoam, Filipino travelers can stay online while exploring the scenic canals of Amsterdam GoRoam keeps Filipinos connected as they capture memories beneath Paris’ iconic Eiffel Tower
Raymond Gutierrez channels eerie sophistication at the star-studded ‘New Nocturnals’ Halloween ball in Makati
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2025
Celebrating a decade of brilliance
Chroma Hospitality honors partners in anniversary show
CHROMA Hospitality is a premier hotel and restaurant management company that has been in operation since 2015. Now a leading name in the hospitality industry because of its passion for excellence and dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences, the group recently celebrated its
Cebu
CEBU Pacific, the Philippines’ leading budget carrier, has been named Asia’s Low-Cost Airline of the Year by the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA), a global aviation research and analysis group.
The recognition highlights the airline’s strong performance and commitment to making air travel affordable and accessible. CAPA’s annual awards honor carriers demonstrating strategic leadership, innovation, and industry impact in the region.
“We are deeply honored to receive this award from CAPA. It recognizes the passion and commitment of every Cebu Pacific employee who works hard each day to make flying safe, affordable, and accessible for our passengers,” said Cebu Pacific chief executive officer Mike Szucs. “As we expand our reach, our purpose remains clear—to connect people and communities and to help fuel tourism and economic growth across the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific.”
Unlike customer survey-based recognitions, CAPA’s Awards for Excellence are independently researched by an international panel of judges and analysts.
Cebu Pacific stood out for its record passenger growth and strong financial performance. From January to September
A proud member of the Filinvest Family, Chroma owns and operates Crimson Hotels and Resorts, Quest Hotels and Resorts, Timberland Highlands Resort, and the Grafik Hotel Collection. Its colorful anniversary celebration, held at the Grand Ballroom of Crimson Hotel, Filinvest City, had the theme “A Decade of Brilliance.”
As expected, the event had all the prime movers of the tourism industry in attendance. Aside from the Filinvest officers, the happy occasion gathered Chroma’s valued clients, media partners, and industry partners. Of course, on hand to honor its growth and contribution to the local tourism landscape were Joseph Yap and Josephine Gotianun-Yap chairman and vice-chairman of the board, respectively, of Filinvest Development Corporation, which also celebrated its 70th anniversary.
The highlight of the event was the Circle of Brilliance Awards given to Chroma’s top clients and partners across the corporate, government, travel agency, airline, and media sectors, celebrating their trust in the homegrown hospitality brand and their consequent contribution to the local tourism landscape.
A very important part of the program was
country manager James Montenegro’s update on the brand’s expansion, further strengthening the group’s hold on the hospitality market: increasing their presence in Central Luzon will be the soon-to-open Crimson Clark, and further north will be the opening of Grafik Pine House in Baguio.
Local foodies will also be pleased to know that the group is slated to open a Filipino restaurant, Recado, collaborating with Chef Carlos Villaflor; La Loca, a Spanish-inspired dining concept; and Hay Diner, an American-style casual restaurant in Baguio. To make it easy for everyone to access info on any or all of its properties, Chroma will soon launch its “Beyond by Chroma” mobile app.
The anniversary event was also the opportune time to announce Chroma’s recent accolades—the inclusion of Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan in the Michelin Guide; the Conde Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence in Travel for the Chroma resorts in Cebu and in Boracay; and the Tatler Dining Citations for Enye and Alibi, both restaurants in Chroma properties, for their outstanding cuisine and service. Chroma Hospitality also received the Philippine Quill Award for Mindful
in Philippine aviation history—to support its fleet and route expansion.
Separately, Cebu Pacific expanded its widebody fleet with the delivery of its 13th Airbus A330neo, strengthening its operational capacity and cementing its position as the largest A330neo operator in Asia.
The 459-seater aircraft, which arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport from Airbus’ facility in Toulouse, France, is the third of four A330neos scheduled for delivery this year.
“Being the largest A330neo operator in Asia reflects our strong commitment to enhancing connectivity across the region. This aircraft enables us to serve more passengers while keeping costs low, which is a key part of our mission to offer affordable fares for every Juan,” said Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer Xander Lao
Cebu Pacific has started deploying its A330neo on the Manila–Puerto Princesa route four times weekly, followed by daily flights between Manila and Bohol beginning Nov. 16.
The A330neo gives the airline flexibility to serve both regional and long-haul routes with improved fuel efficiency— burning 15 percent less fuel per flight and producing less noise compared to previous-generation aircraft.
Cebu Pacific now flies to 37 domestic and 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, strengthening its position as a leading low-cost carrier in the Asia-Pacific region.
Hospitality, duly honored as the Best Publication for Sustainability. In the same token, several Chroma properties, like the Quest Plus Conference Center Clark, Quest Hotel and Conference Center Cebu, and Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan, also earned the Good Travel Seal, which highlights Chroma’s unwavering dedication to sustainable operations and responsible tourism.
The evening celebration ended with a toast to Chroma Hospitality, led by Josephine and Joseph Yap, for its achievements this past decade, which certainly demonstrated its ability to exceed expectations as it continues to display its brilliance in the local hospitality landscape.
More information on Chroma Hospitality’s offerings is available at www. chromahospitality.com or through +63 998 589 0462.
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YOUR WEEKEND CHUCKLE: At a wedding reception, the program host announced, “All married men, please stand beside the person who has made your life worth living.” The bartender was nearly crushed to death!
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Cebu Pacific CEO Mike Szucs (center) receives the Asia’s Low-Cost Airline of the Year award from CAPA at the 2025 ceremony
Cebu Pacific’s newest Airbus A330neo aircraft expands the airline’s widebody fleet, supporting its growing regional network
Chroma Hospitality country manager James Montenegro announces the group’s expansion plans
With the Smart Multi SIM, Filipino travelers can stay connected and manage multiple eSIM profiles wherever they go
Chroma Hospitality recognized its media partners for their support through the years
The evening celebration concluded with a toast to Chroma Hospitality, led by Filinvest officers Josephine and Joseph Yap