Manila Standard - 2025 November 5 - Wednesday

By Joel E. Zurbano

26 dead amid Tino’s onslaught

PAF chopper assessing typhoon-hit areas crashes in Agusan

• Super typhoon may enter PAR this weekend

By Rex Espiritu, Edwin Ombion, Ronald Reyes and Alena Mae Flores

AT LEAST 26 people were killed and hundreds of thousands displaced as rains driven by Typhoon “Tino” (Kalmaegi) flooded swathes of Visayas and parts of Mindanao on Tuesday.

Remulla mulls raps vs. Villars, Chiz, Martin

By Rio N. Araja and Pot Chavez

to corruption in the flood control projects.

By Charles Dantes, Maricel V. Cruz, Katrina Manubay, and Alena Mae S. Flores

PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. ordered government agencies to work around the clock to pro -

vide relief to the more than 340,000 people affected by Typhoon “Tino” across several regions in the Visayas and southern Luzon

“We continue to monitor the impact of Typhoon Tino, which has affected over 340,000 individuals in 1,397 barangays in MIMAROPA, Bicol,

Western and Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Caraga, and the Negros Island Region,” he said in a statement read by Palace Press Officer Claire Castro.

More than 175,000 people are temporarily staying in evacuation centers across the affected regions, while Cabinet members are set to visit the hard-

By Katrina Manubay

est-hit provinces to assess the situation and ensure immediate restoration of essential services, the President added. Meanwhile, Office of Civil Defense spokesperson Junie Castillo assured that the government has sufficient stocks of family food packs and non-

House to pass bill to put more teeth to ICI

By Maricel V. Cruz

central Visayas yesterday. Top photo shows houses torn by floodwaters at the mouth of the Maranga river along Cebu City’s South Road Properties. In the bottom left photo, rescuers clear debris from an uprooted tree that fell on a rescue vehicle at the outskirts of Bacolod City. The center photo shows rescuers carrying a victim of the flooding at a village in Cebu City. Cars are piled

after

swept away by floods. Cebu Province/Brigada News/Don del Rosario / AFP

‘VIP’

By Ram Superable

witness to testify—Lacson

ing finalized and will include ledgers and other documents to substantiate the claims.

SENATE President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson on Tuesday said he is ready to reassume the chairmanship of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee if elected to the post even as he disclosed that a ‘very important witness’ is expected to testify soon before the body.

Speaking at the “Kapihan sa Senado” forum, Lacson expressed confidence that his possible return would not disrupt the Senate’s leadership or internal dynamics.

“If elected, I told Senate President Sotto that I’ll accept. He assured me that he already spoke with our colleagues, and it seems everything is

connection with the controversial P72-million flood control project in Plaridel, Bulacan.

ICI chairman Andres Reyes said they submit an interim report and recommendation to the Ombudsman regarding the apparently ghost flood control project supposedly carried out by the DPWH Bulacan First District Engineering Office, with Topnotch Catalyst Builders Inc. as private contractor.

The project involved the construction of a riverbank protection structure at Bagong Silang, Purok 4 in Plaridel.

In its report, the commission also asked the Ombudsman to ‘evaluate’ the possible violations of former DPWH engineers Henry Alcantara and Brice Hernandez, and Eumir Villanueva of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, Malversation and Falsification, Presidential Decree No. 1759, and the Government Procurement Reform Act.

Reyes said based on a report endorsed by the Commission on Audit, it was established that no structure was constructed at the location specified in the Approved Bid Plans. Instead, the structure was supposedly relocated.

The ICI observed that this deviation was not supported by documentary evidence to justify or authorize such relocation.

Reyes said the results of the COA technical inspection, together with available records, clearly established that the project was never constructed at the designated site in the Approved Bid Plans, thus, not implemented, despite the unwarranted release and full payment of the contract cost by the DPWH to Topnotch.

“It appears that several DPWH public officials were grossly negligent, if not remiss, in the performance of their respective duties to ensure that the project was properly implemented and that government funds were lawfully and prudently disbursed,” Reyes said.

He also said the former public officials’ acts and omissions indicated a “failure to secure the required diligence and oversight expected of public officers entrusted with the administration of public funds, thereby resulting in evident injury to the government.”

fine,” Lacson said, adding that the consensus appeared favorable to his reinstatement as committee chair.

Lacson revealed that a “very important witness” is expected to testify soon, potentially completing the chain of evidence needed to pursue criminal charges.

He said the witness’s affidavit is be -

Entire towns on the island of Cebu have been inundated, while cars, trucks and even massive shipping containers could be seen swept along by muddy floodwaters.

In Agusan del Sur, a military helicopter deployed to conduct Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) in areas battered by “Tino” crashed in the municipality of Loreto, the Philippine Air Force said.

PAF said the Super Huey, which reportedy had six people on board, crashed near the 60th Infantry Battalion headquarters. No information has been released yet on the status of the victims.

While “Tino” is expected to leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility either Wednesday night or early Thursday morning, state weather bureau PAGASA said it is monitoring a potential super typhoon that could enter PAR later this week.

PAGASA said the tropical depression, located east of Northeastern Mindanao, will be identified as “Uwan” once it enters the PAR Friday night or Saturday.

The weather bureau said it could intensify into a super typhoon during the weekend, with maximum sustained winds exceeding 185 km/h.

Meanwhile, majority of the fatalities during the onslaught of “Tino” died from drowning, Office of Civil De-

The senator stressed that the committee will only entertain testimony supported by verifiable evidence. He confirmed that the next hearing will likely be held on November 14, when senators will decide whether to issue a subpoena to retired Marine T/Sgt. Orly Guteza.

The subpoena will be coursed through the office of Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who had previously been linked to the case’s internal review of CCTV footage.

Lacson said Guteza’s claims, including those implicating former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, must be

fense deputy administrator Rafaelito Alejandro said.

In Cebu alone, 21 people were killed.

In the 24 hours before Tino’s landfall, the area around Cebu City was deluged with 183 millimeters (seven inches) of rain, well over its 131-millimeter monthly average, state weather specialist Charmagne Varilla told Agence France Presse.

“The situation in Cebu is really unprecedented,” provincial governor Pamela Baricuatro said in a Facebook post Tuesday.

“We were expecting the winds to be the dangerous part, but... the water is what’s truly putting our people at risk,” she said. “The floodwaters are just devastating.”

Local disaster official Ethel Minoza said rescuers were still attempting to reach residents trapped by floodwaters.

Don del Rosario, 28, was among those in Cebu City who sought refuge on an upper floor as the storm raged.

“The water rose so fast,” he said. “By 4:00 am, it was already uncontrollable— people couldn’t get out (of their houses).”

“I’ve been here for 28 years, and this is by far the worst we’ve experienced.”

Hundreds still living in tent cities after a 6.9-magnitude quake rocked the island in late September were “forcibly evacuated for their own safety,” Cebu information officer Rhon Ramos told AFP by phone.

In total, nearly 400,000 people were pre-emptively moved from the ty-

through the river (those areas where the rivers are) were improvements made in that area. That’s one thing that has to be looked into,” Remulla said.

In a related development, the Ombudsman dropped broad hints that former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez might also be charged with “gross inexcusable negligence of duty” in relation to the election of former Cong. Zaldy Co as House appropriations committee chair.

“We may be putting up a new task force for the River Drive and for the flood control of Las Piñas, Bacoor-Las Piñas area,” Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said.

“We will form a (separate) task force just for the Villars. The Zapote River drive, together with the Bacoor properties, the boundaries of the rivers, passage

“While the motive behind the removal remains unknown, public monuments are often vulnerable to vandalism or even destruction or theft,” the statement read.

When asked why the embassy has not immediately issued a statement regarding the disappearance even though it has been missing for more than a week now, the DFA explained that the embassy deemed it wise to wait for initial information from French authorities before making a public comment.

“As the incident involves a public monument under the jurisdiction of the City of Paris, the Embassy considered it prudent to await initial information from the authorities before releasing a public statement. This approach was intended to ensure accuracy, prevent undue speculation, and respect the integrity of the investigative process,” it added.

The agency also pledged to coordinate with local authorities and the Filipino community in Paris to explore all possible efforts for the recovery or replacement of the monument, reaffirming its commitment to uphold the memory and ideals it represents.

food items for evacuees.

As of Tuesday, around 129,700 families, or 387,000 individuals, had been preemptively evacuated from highrisk areas in Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, and Caraga, he reported.

A total of 362 evacuation centers are currently housing displaced families.

Around 1,400 passengers were stranded in various ports, where response teams provided food and temporary shelter, Castillo noted.

Vice President Sara Duterte announced that the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) Disaster Operations Center has been activated to support and augment the disaster response efforts of local government units (LGUs) following the onslaught of Typhoon Tino, which brought Signal No. 4 over several areas in the Visayas and Mindanao.

In a video statement released yesterday, Duterte urged the public to remain alert and follow official advisories.

backed by credible evidence before the panel can treat them as reliable.

He also confirmed that both Romualdez and former Ako-Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co will be invited to the next Senate hearing to address allegations of kickbacks from flood control projects. Lacson added that the committee is considering issuing a subpoena duces tecum to Pacifico and Cezarah Discaya, who earlier testified that 17 lawmakers allegedly received kickbacks.

He warned that any attempt to avoid formal proceedings would only weaken the credibility of the accusations and dismissed rumors that the Blue Ribbon Committee is protecting certain individuals or political allies.

phoon’s path, Alejandro said.

Deaths in other provinces included an elderly resident who drowned in an upper floor of their home in Leyte province and a man struck by a falling tree in Bohol.

Nine Visayas-based electric cooperatives (ECs) were experiencing total power interruption due to the impact of “Tino,” the National Electrification Administration (NEA) reported.

NEA said electricity services were cut in AKELCO (Aklan), BILECO (Biliran), CEBECO 2 and 3 (Cebu), CELCO (Camotes Island), LEYECO 2, 3 and 4 (Leyte) and PROSIELCO (Siquijor), based on the updated report of its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department (DRRMD).

The Philippines is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, routinely striking disaster-prone areas where millions live in poverty.

With “Tino,” the country has already reached that average, weather specialist Varilla said, adding at least “three to five more” storms could be expected by December’s end.

The country was hit by two major storms in September, including Super Typhoon Nando (Ragasa).

Scientists have warned that storms are becoming more powerful due to human-driven climate change.

Warmer oceans allow typhoons to strengthen rapidly, and a warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, meaning heavier rainfall. AFP

we’re looking at right now,” he said.

Former US Veep Dick Cheney, 84

WASHINGTON, United States

— Former US vice president Dick Cheney has died aged 84, US media reported on Tuesday, citing a statement from his family.

Cheney was the 46th vice president, serving under Republican president George W. Bush for two terms between 2001 and 2009.

The former congressman and defense secretary “died due to complications of pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease,” according to the family’s statement cited by US media.

“For decades, Dick Cheney served our nation, including as White House Chief of Staff, Wyoming’s Congressman, Secretary of Defense, and Vice President of the United States,” it added.

Cheney is considered to have been one of the most powerful vice presidents in US history, a Machiavellian figure who wielded considerable influence behind the scenes.

Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, on January 30, 1941, Cheney grew up mostly in the sparsely populated western state of Wyoming.

He attended Yale University but dropped out of the prestigious East Coast school and ended up earning a degree in political science back home at the University of Wyoming.

A Republican stalwart, Cheney went into politics himself in 1978, winning Wyoming’s seat in the House of Representatives and holding on to it for the next decade.

Named defense secretary by president George H.W. Bush in 1989, Cheney presided over the Pentagon during the 1990-91 Gulf War, in which a US-led coalition evicted Iraqi troops from Kuwait. AFP

“If you live in that area, you would know that they own the land. You see the river wall. Ask, who spent for that? Is it the government or are they the ones who spent for it? It’s as simple as that. So we will determine that later. What happened to the project cost?” he added.

Remulla also bared that they are pursuing an investigation to determine the involvement of Escudero into the flood control scandal.

“A probe is ongoing. We have statements of a money trail leading to him… narrations of fact that are there already. But of course, we want to buttress it with other evidence which

“We strongly remind all citizens to remain vigilant and follow the notices and instructions of the relevant authorities. The safety and well-being of everyone remains the primary goal during this time,” she said in Filipino.

In Leyte province, where the typhoon hit hard, the offices of 1st district Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and Tingog Party-list have prepositioned rice and essential relief goods across Tacloban City and seven municipalities to ensure immediate support to affected families.

In a statement on Tuesday, Romualdez said Tingog personnel and volunteers delivered initial stocks to Palo, Tanauan, Tolosa, Sta. Fe, Alang-alang, San Miguel, and Babatngon.

The former Speaker emphasized that “preparedness remains a top priority to protect vulnerable communities, especially in coastal and low-lying barangays.”

“We want every family to be ready and no one left struggling when bad weather comes,” Romualdez said.

Affected families in each municipality will receive noodles, sardines, biscuits, coffee, Energen, and rice, he noted.

“If you cannot find an Anti-Money Laundering Council) trail, then you have to follow a cash trail, and we will find it,” he noted.

Former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo earlier claimed delivering 20 percent of approximately P800 million or about P160 million through Maynard Ngu for Escudero.

Remulla meanwhile explained that although (Ako Bicol party-list Rep.) Zaldy Co was elected on the floor, “everybody knows that it was a Speaker’s choice. That is why we have to hold him accountable for that.”

He added that Romualdez could face a complaint of ‘gross inexcusable negligence of duty’ if his responsibility was determined in Co’s appointment.

Similarly, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) distributed food and non-food items (FNFIs) in Bicol, Central Visayas, and CARAGA.

Asst. Secretary Irene Dumlao of the DSWD’s Disaster Response and Management Group (DRMG) assured that more relief supplies can be mobilized at a moment’s notice as the need arises.

“ If additional help is needed, our food packs and non-food items can be easily accessed because they were already placed in areas that were likely to be hit by Typhoon Tino,” she said.

Aside from the FNFIs, the Department also deployed its mobile kitchen to provide hot meals to locally stranded individuals (LSIs) in Matnog Port in Sorsogon province.

As this developed, the National Electrification Administration (NEA) reported that eight Visayas-based electric cooperatives (ECs) are experiencing total power interruption due to the typhoon’s impact.

Electricity services were cut in the service areas of BANELCO (Bantayan Island), BILECO (Biliran), CEBECO 2 and 3 (Cebu), CELCO (Camotes Is-

“Independent Commission Against Infrastructure Corruption.”

The bills were referred to Pleyto’s committee for action.

In response to the Speaker’s directive, Pleyto said his panel will hold a hearing on the twin measures on November 11, paving the way for committee-level approval.

“I don’t think congressmen will oppose this because it will be for the good of our country so that all these corruption issues will be done away with,” he said.

Pleyto said the main objective of HB 4453 is to strengthen the existing Independent Committee on Infrastructure. “We know for a fact that they don’t have contempt and subpoena powers. We will also give them the power to issue hold-departure orders,” he explained.

“Once we’re done with this, we also want them to have the authority to file cases directly with the antigraft court Sandiganbayan. I don’t think congressmen will oppose this because this will be for the good of our country so that all these corruption issues will be done away with,” Pleyto emphasized.

land), ESAMELCO (Eastern Samar), LEYECO 2 and 3 (Leyte).

NEA Administrator Antonio Mariano Almeda said that the affected ECs in Eastern Visayas are already working to restore power distribution services despite the challenging weather conditions, except in the franchise area of DORELCO (Don Orestes Romualdez), which is based in Tolosa, Leyte.

“The respective cooperatives have assured me that they can handle the restoration process. Actually, last night, I just called their attention to make sure that critical services like hospitals do have generators,” he disclosed.

Likewise, the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines said it is conducting restoration activities for several transmission facilities affected by Typhoon Tino.

“NGCP has mobilized its line crews and is currently conducting patrols. Simultaneous restoration activities are also being conducted in areas already accessible,” NGCP said in a statement. NGCP reported that the Maasin-San Isidro 69kV Line was restored yesterday afternoon after going offline on Monday evening.

IN BRIEF

SC issues status quo

ante order vs. Yap DQ

THE Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a status quo ante order in relation to the petition for certiorari filed by Tarlac City Mayor Susan Yap-Sulit. Earlier, the Department of the Interior and Local Government ordered the implementation of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) resolution annulling Yap’s proclamation as mayor. The High Tribunal said the order aims to maintain the situation between the parties before the Comelec en banc issued its ruling, while Yap’s petition remains pending.

Yap-Sulit filed the petition challenging the Comelec decision disqualifying her on grounds of alleged lack of residency in Tarlac City for at least one year prior to the elections.

The Comelec Second Division earlier dismissed the disqualification case, allowing her to run and be proclaimed, but the en banc later reversed the ruling and disqualified her.Pot Chavez

Tawi-Tawi marks

Sheik Makhdum Day

THE National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) joins the people of Tawi-Tawi and Filipino Muslims in commemorating Sheik Karimol Makhdum Day on November 6 and 7. NHCP Chair Regalado Trota Jose Jr. will lead a delegation to Sibutu and Simunul for the local observance honoring Sheik Makhdum, one of the earliest Islamic teachers in the Philippines.

On November 6, a program will be held at the Sheik Makhdum Burial Site in Sibutu, featuring the launch of a redevelopment master plan, with DepEd Undersecretary Fatima Lipp Panontongan as guest of honor.

The following day, a commemorative event will take place at the Sheik Karimol Makhdum Memorial Gymnasium in Simunul, attended by BARMM Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua.

The NHCP will also unveil new publications on the history of Mindanao, Sulu, and Palawan, reaffirming its mandate to promote and preserve the nation’s historical and cultural heritage.

‘Chinese rm not involved in dredging’

A LOCAL official on Tuesday denied reports that a Chinese firm is involved in dredging operations in Zambales that allegedly caused environmental damage and property losses.

Provincial engineering consultant Domingo Mariano said no Chinese company has been granted a permit to operate under the province’s River Restoration Program.

“The dredging machines are operated by Filipino workers, and the vessels—though acquired from China—are now Philippine-flagged and approved by the Maritime Industry Authority,” he said. Mariano issued the statement after a lawmaker called for an investigation into supposed Chinese involvement in dredging that allegedly harmed local communities.

He added that the project has benefited residents, generating revenue and preventing flooding, with sand extracted from rivers supplied to major reclamation and airport projects in Pasay and Bulacan. Joel E. Zurbano

Survey: Most Pinoys believe corruption has worsened

By Ma. Katrina Mikaela Manubay

AN overwhelming majority (81 percent) or eight in 10 Filipinos believe corruption has worsened since the declaration of Martial Law 53 years ago, indicating that the issue remains entrenched despite decades of reform pledges, according to a survey conducted by PUBLiCUS Asia.

The recent Pahayag poll showed that perceptions of worsening corruption were most pronounced in Central Luzon at 83 percent, followed by Southern Luzon and the Visayas, both at 82 percent. Mindanao and the National Capital Region registered the lowest at 80 and 79 percent, respectively.

The survey also found that 77 percent, or three in four registered voters,

did not participate in the rally against corruption held on September 21.

PUBLiCUS noted that these results reflect a sense of resignation among the public, suggesting that corruption has become a persistent and unresolved aspect of governance. When asked about accountability for the ₱1 trillion in budget realignments planned between 2023 and 2025, near-

ly half of the respondents (49 percent) held both President Marcos Jr. and the House of Representatives accountable.

In contrast, 24 percent blamed only the President, while 11 percent blamed Congress.

PUBLiCUS also pointed out that nearly nine in ten Filipinos attribute responsibility for corruption and fiscal mismanagement to either or both the executive and legislative branches.

This underscores a widespread perception that these issues are systemic rather than confined to a single leader or institution.

The survey was conducted from September 27 to 30 among 1,500 randomly selected respondents from a market research panel of registered Filipino voters maintained by the Singapore office of PureSpectrum, a U.S.-based panel marketplace.

Ridon: Back ‘conspiracy’ with document, not rhetoric

By Maricel V. Cruz

HOUSE Infrastructure Committee co-chair Terry Ridon of the Bicol Saro Party-list on Tuesday pushed back against claims that the previous Congress enabled a “grand conspiracy” behind alleged ₱1.45-trillion budget insertions, saying any accusation must be backed by specific evidence, not blanket assertions.

Ridon, who also chairs the House Committee on Public Accounts, was responding to commentaries suggesting that such insertions “could not have happened without the knowledge and consent” of former Speaker Martin Romualdez and former Senate President Chiz Escudero, and that lawmakers supposedly agreed not to contest the budgets in exchange for their own amendments.

“Without actual evidence, this is a dangerous assertion,” Ridon said.

“Accountability and actual criminal charges do not operate on ‘they must have known’ allegations.”

He said any supposed complicity should be proven through actual line items proposed or defended by Escudero and Romualdez.

Ridon noted that all budget bills in the past have gone through the same process—from committee hearings to plenary debates, bicameral conferences, and ratification by both chambers.

“If the former Speaker, the former Senate President, or any member of Congress abused their power, then we should show the insertions, show the project history and implementation, and file the proper cases for ghost or substandard projects,” he said.

“But if the whole theory is ‘it’s a big number so they must all be guilty,’ that’s not accountability. That’s guesswork.”

Over 4,000 Tanzeños benefit from Lab for All caravans

By Vince Lopez

DESPITE the inclement weather brought by Typhoon Tino, about 4,212 residents from Tanza, Cavite, and nearby areas flocked to the Tanza Municipal Convention Center early Tuesday to avail themselves of free government services during the Lab for All caravan, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reported. A flagship initiative of First Lady Marie Louise Araneta-Marcos, Lab for All provides free dental and medical services, including consultations and various laboratory tests such as vital signs checks, hemoglobin, fasting blood sugar, electrocardiogram, cholesterol, uric acid, urinalysis, and X-ray.

Beneficiaries also received financial aid, free medicines, eyeglasses, Bagong Pilipinas Digiboxes, PCSO ChariTimba items, and family boxes from the Department of Social Wel-

fare and Development (DSWD). In her message, the First Lady thanked both private and government partners and introduced new Lab for All buses equipped with modern equipment for X-rays, blood extraction, and laboratory testing. She also encouraged pregnant women to take advantage of the Unang 1,000 Days

also joined the event. “Long live Cavite, I love you all very much,” he said. Local officials, including Tanza Congressman Crispin Diego Remulla and Mayor Archangelo Matro, expressed gratitude to the First Family for bringing the Lab for All program to their town.

GBF, Khan Academy launch MathTalino to boost numeracy

THE Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF) and Khan Academy Philippines (KA Ph) have officially launched MathTalino, a specialized AI-enhanced learning initiative designed to help Filipino students struggling with numeracy.

The program builds on Khan Academy’s successful MathTalino summer remediation pilot conducted last May to June 2025 across Quezon City, Valenzuela City, and Balanga City. The pilot demonstrated that data-driven remediation powered by AI and guided by skilled teachers can rapidly close learning gaps—raising learners’ math proficiency by up to 70 percent in just five weeks. Teachers received targeted training on data-informed instruction using Khan Academy’s Khanmigo, an AI productivity tool and student tutor that offers real-time feedback and step-by-step support. Parents were also engaged through weekly updates and individualized mastery report cards, creating a strong feed-

back loop between classroom and home.

MathTalino targets Grades 4 to 6 learners who score low in numeracy based on Department of Education (DepEd)-endorsed diagnostics and Khan Academy course proficiency. By combining world-class digital tools with classroom interventions, the program aims to build confidence, strengthen foundational math skills, and prepare students for academic progression.

The initiative will be rolled out in public schools already using Khan Academy Philippines, with priority given to those also engaged in GBF’s flagship Class Builder program.

“The GBF Class Builder was co-designed with our DepEd teachers so it is very grounded in their reality of having overloaded schedules and limited training time,” said GBF Executive Director Grace Colet. “We hope to ease our teachers’ burden and help them develop mastery and pedagogy through an integrated approach that trains and supports them.”

DOWNPOUR. Students walk home under heavy rain at Bagong Silangan Elementary School in Quezon City on November 4, 2025, as Typhoon Tino brings strong winds and downpours. Edd Castro

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2025

Makati gov’t expands seniors’ benefits

By Joel E. Zurbano

Mayor Nancy Binay announced on Tuesday the establishment of the Makati Senior Citizens Assistance and Inclusion Program, marking a significant enhancement in benefits for the city’s elderly residents.

cal government’s core dedication to

IN BRIEF

Bill to allow online application for SPIC

A LEGISLATOR on Tuesday filed a bill institutionalizing an online-based registration and renewal system for securing a Solo Parent Identification Card (SPIC) to make this process less costly Parañaque Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan’s proposed Online Registration and Renewal for Solo Parents Act under House Bill (HB) 4034 also mandates the Solo Parent Office (SPO) of local government units to directly coordinate with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and other government agencies in requesting the documentary requirements needed for the issuance of the SPIC.

The Parañaque legislator said he filed the bill after receiving reports from solo parents about the difficulties they faced in obtaining the SPIC, which is required to access most of the benefits granted to them under the law.

“Our proposal to establish an online registration and renewal system for the SPIC would make the process faster, more convenient and less costly for many struggling single parents nationwide,” said Yamsuan. Maricel V. Cruz

Ateneo, UP expanding to Gen. Trias, Dasma

ATENEO de Manila University and state-run University of the Philippines (UP) are putting up their respective branches in in Cavite.

Ateneo is eyeing a 15-hectare lot Riverpark in Barangay Pasong Camachile 2, General Trias as site of its expansion project expected to open in 2030. Mayor Luis Ferrer IV said.

On the other hand, the proposed UP- Technology Innovation campus is a five-hectare land in Barangay Paliparan, Dasmariñas City.

Ferrer welcome this development, saying it ushers in a new era of quality education for General Trias students who need no longer to go Metro Manila to pursue high education. Dennis Abrina

Zambales judges, staff get inclusivity seminar

THE Supreme Court (SC) has gathered judges and court personnel of Zambales courts for a specialized course on gender awareness and responsiveness.

SC Associate Justice Henri Jean Paul Inting encouraged participants to remain cognizant of gender issues and to consistently practice respectful and inclusive conduct.

“Through this initiative, we are empowering ourselves — from judges to every member of our staff — to recognize gender-based issues and confront unconscious biases. We are committed to developing a judiciary that is not only efficient and principled but also inclusive, compassionate, and genuinely responsive to societal needs,” Inting said.

The call to action is aligned with the SC’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022–2027 (SPJI), which envisions a more inclusive and responsive judiciary. Pot Chavez

upholding the dignity, health, and active engagement of senior citizens.

“Our beloved seniors are the living treasures and foundation of Makati. They have dedicated their lives to building their families, communities, and this great city,” Mayor Binay said.

“This new program is not merely assistance; it is a concrete expression of our profound gratitude, ensuring they can live their remaining years with absolute security, health, and respect,” she added.

The ordinance establishes three fun-

damental pillars of support: enhanced financial and food security, active inclusion and employment, and tax incentives for corporate support. It formalizes an annual cash incentive of P12,000 for all eligible Blu Card and/or White Card holders, which is disbursed biannually in equal installments. The current incentive structure for beneficiaries is classified according to age, with individuals aged 60-69 receiving P4,000; those aged 70-79 receiving P5,000; recipients aged 80-89 getting P6,000; those aged 90-99 receiving

SOLONS REACH OUT TO ‘TINO’ VICTIMS. Local Social Welfare and Development officer Marilyn Superada of Alangalang, Leyte receives 15 sacks of rice and five boxes of noodles from former Speaker and Leyte First District Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and his allies at the TINGOG party-list for distribution of the victims of tropical storm Tino in the municipality of Alangalang. Ver Noveno

DFA opens e-Visa facilities for Chinese visiting PH

By Katrina Manubay

THE Philippine Foreign Service Posts in China has officially launched the eVisa for Chinese nationals who wish to travel to the Philippines for business or tourism purposes, marking the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the cities of Beijing, Chongqing, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Macau, Shanghai, and Xiamen.

In a social media post on Monday, the Philippine Embassy in Beijing said the eVisa will be implemented with VFS Global, a leader in technological services for governments and diplomatic missions worldwide.

“The Philippine Embassy is happy to announce the official launch of the eVisa, jointly developed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Information and Communications Technology, in line with the directive of the President to enhance client experience, digitize services, and further invigorate the country’s tourism sector,” Ambassador Jaime FlorCruz said in a statement.

The eVisa allows the holders to submit applications online 24/7 and provides a 14-day, non-extendable, and non-convertible stay in the Philippines.

It may be used for entry through the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Metro Manila and the

Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

“The Philippines continues to solidify its reputation as a premier tourism destination, having recently been bestowed the ‘Island Charm Award’ at the 2025 Beijing International Diving & Resort Travel Expo,” FlorCruz said. Meanwhile, the embassy also released guidelines for Chinese travelers applying for business or tourism visa and desire to stay for more than 14 days or enter through other airports: Travellers may apply for a conventional (physical) visa through the following VFS Global Visa Application Centers, open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday to Friday (except holidays):

LTFRB to hold public consultations on fare pleas

By Rio N. Araja

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has ordered a nationwide public consultation on the fare increase petitions by public utility vehicles. LTFRB chief Vigor Mendoza II said such consultations must be held at the soonest possible time, and instructed all regional directors to make sure that all stakeholders are invited for the discussions. In the case of the LTFRB central office in Quezon City, the public consultation will be

already issued a board resolution for the conduct of the public consultation on Nov. 10 here at the central office. We will make sure that all concerned sectors will be present,” Mendoza said. “While we understand the concerns raised by those in the PUV sector since the prices of gasoline and vehicle spare parts are constantly increasing, we

Based on the result, the LTFRB has received several petitions from various PUV operators, particularly from buses, jeepneys, taxis and other transport service providers for the increase in fares.

“It is unacceptable that only one side (should) be heard in this matter, and that it is even more unacceptable that all stakeholders are not given the opportunity to express their opinions because everyone will be affected by any decision on fare increases,” Mendoza said.

P11,000; and individuals aged 101 and above receiving the full P12,000.

To address rising food costs, the ordinance also mandates an annual rice subsidy of 10 kilos for every qualified senior citizen.

In a pioneering effort to empower seniors who are willing and able to work, the ordinance directs the Public Employment Service Office to establish a dedicated Senior Citizens Employment Desk.

This desk will maintain a database of available senior workers and actively match them with suitable job opportunities in private and public sectors.

To encourage city businesses to partner with the local government in this mission, the ordinance grants a tax deduction equivalent to 15 percent of the total salaries and wages paid to hired senior citizens. This deduction will be applied when computing the business tax, providing a strong incentive for private entities to champion senior employment.

The program is set to take effect on April 1, 2026, following the promulgation of necessary implementing guidelines by the Makati Social Welfare Department (MSWD).

“Makati will always lead the way in showing respect for our elders. We are not just mitigating poverty; we are promoting an inclusive environment where our seniors are celebrated, employed, and remain integral, active members of our society,” the mayor said.

She urged all qualified elderly residents to ensure their registration is updated with the MSWD and the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs to avail of these institutionalized benefits once the program becomes fully operational.

The ordinance was authored by councilors Joel Ariones, Marie Alethea Casal-Uy, Ferdinand Eusebio, Fernando Felix Imperial, Ma. Arlene Ortega, Levy Ramboyong, Kristina Sarosa, Bernadette Sese, Maribel Vitales, Nemesio Yabut, Jr., and Jerome Tristan Pangilinan.

Comelec expects list of new voters to surpass 1.4m

By Vito Barcelo

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) expects the number of additional voter registrants to surpass 1.4 million by May 2026, as the nationwide registration resumes following the Undas break. Comelec chairman George Garcia said the poll body has already recorded around 2.8 million registrants for the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections from Aug. 1 to 10 this year. With the continuing turnout of applicants, Garcia said the total number of registered voters could reach the unprecedented 100-million mark before the 2026 elections.

“We are optimistic that the number of new registrants will continue to rise in the coming months,” Garcia said, urging eligible citizens to register early and not wait for the deadline.

The Comelec has reopened its offices nationwide and in select satellite registration sites, such as malls and schools to accommodate more applicants. Registration time typically run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mondays to Saturdays, including holidays except on declared breaks.

Garcia reminded the public that those who will turn 15 years old on or before May 18, 2026, are eligible to register and vote in the SK elections.

Meanwhile, citizens who will be 18 years old or older by that date may register for the barangay elections. The continuing registration is part of Comelec’s early preparations for the synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan polls, as well as the 2025 midterm elections.

Garcia said the Comelec was working closely with local government units, schools, and civil society groups to ensure smooth and accessible voter registration across the country.

EARLY CHRISTMAS IN MUNTINLUPA. The Muntinlupa City government under Mayor Ruffy Biazon kicks off the distribution of Christmas presents, marking the third consecutive year of its initiative to bring cheers and spread the spirit of happy holidays to 128,000 families across the city.

MEDICINES SUPPLY CONTRACT. The University of the Philippines Alumni Cooperative forges an agreement with Planet Drugstore for the supply of medicines to the UP Botika ng Alumni. Photo taken after the contract signing shows (from left) Gladys Pangilinan of Ritemed Operations, cooperative chairman Dr. Macky Galvez Jr., and Planet Drugstore chief executive Emman Zshornack.

OPINION

Can we achieve single-digit poverty levels by 2028?

FIVE out of 10 Filipino families rate themselves as poor, according to the latest Social Weather Survey conducted from Sept. 24 to 30.

That’s 50 percent of respondents, or an estimated 14.2 million Filipino families, who rated themselves as “mahirap” or “poor,” while 38 percent rated themselves as “hindi mahirap” or “not poor.” Meanwhile, 12 percent rated themselves as “borderline” (on the line dividing “poor” and “not poor”).

The SWS survey showing that half of all Filipino families consider themselves poor reflects the widening gap between the administration’s poverty reduction targets and the actual economic situation of millions of citizens.

It tells us very clearly that the goal of reducing poverty to 9 percent by 2028 is not only ambitious but perhaps even elusive and unattainable.

The Social Weather Stations’ Sept. 2025 survey reveals that 14.2 million Filipino families or half of the total population identify themselves poor, up from 49 percent in June.

This figure starkly contrasts with the official poverty incidence of 16.4 percent reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority in 2023, based on income thresholds.

Self-rated poverty, by contrast, reflects perceived economic hardship, encompassing not just income but also access to basic needs, job stability, and resilience to shocks.

Hence, while the official rate declining to less than 16.4 percent is positive, the fact that nearly half of families feel poor indicates that many more feel insecure than the statistics, which complicates efforts to reduce poverty to 9 percent in a meaningful way.

This disconnect between perception and official metrics is critical.

Self-rated poverty is a barometer of public sentiment and social trust. It captures the erosion of economic confidence, especially when inflation, underemployment, and regional disparities persist.

In Mindanao, for instance, 69 percent of families rated themselves poor, compared to 43 percent in Metro Manila.

Such regional imbalances suggest that national averages hide localized suffering and that poverty alleviation must be tailored to geographic and sectoral realities.

The Marcos Jr. administration’s goal to reduce poverty to single- digit level of 9 percent by 2028 was framed as part of its Philippine Development Plan, anchored on infrastructure expansion, digitalization, and social protection.

Yet, the recent increase in self-rated poverty suggests that economic growth has not translated into inclusive prosperity. Rising prices, stagnant wages, and precarious employment have eroded purchasing power.

Analysts estimate that to hit single-digit poverty, the country may need consistent GDP growth around 8 percent annually alongside targeted programs for vulnerable groups.

Moreover, the survey found that 36 percent of poor families have never experienced being non-poor, while 1.6 million are “newly poor.”

This reflects both chronic poverty and vulnerability, with families slipping into hardship due to economic shocks, climate events, or health crises.

This compels the administration to go beyond macroeconomic targets and address structural inequities: landlessness, informal labor, and weak safety nets.

We must emphasize the urgent need to bridge the gap between aspiration and reality through a recalibration of the government’s antipoverty strategy

We must emphasize the urgent need to bridge the gap between aspiration and reality through a recalibration of the government’s anti-poverty strategy.

This includes strengthening local governance, expanding conditional cash transfers under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) aimed at reducing poverty by improving health, nutrition, and education among poor households; investing in rural livelihoods; and ensuring that infrastructure projects generate decent jobs. It also requires transparent monitoring and citizen participation to hold institutions accountable.

The latest SWS survey is not just a statistical update but should also be considered a wake-up call.

It should remind policymakers that poverty is not merely an economic condition but a lived experience by half of all Filipino families.

If the Marcos Jr. administration is serious about attaining its 9 percent anti-poverty target, it must confront the fact that half of Filipino families feel poor, and that perception is rooted in systemic failures that cannot be solved by economic growth alone.

The fact that half of all families still feel poor even as the official poverty rate declines poses a risk to public confidence and social concord.

If people don’t feel the improvements in their daily lives, political support for systemic reforms can wane.

For the administration’s goal to resonate, not only must the poverty numbers decline, but real lived improvements, including job stability, income growth, cost-of-living relief, and access to services, must be broadly visible and felt by the poor and disadvantaged sectors in Philippine society.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Leadership that listens

IF YOU’VE ever worked under a leader who truly trusts you, you know how it feels — that quiet confidence that you can do your job, make your own decisions, and be accountable for them.

That’s the kind of leadership Speaker Martin Romualdez has always shown. He doesn’t hover. He doesn’t dictate. He empowers. Because for him, leadership isn’t about control — it’s about trust. You could see that clearly in the way he inspired the inception of TINGOG Partylist. From the very start, he gave its leadership full freedom to plan, decide, and implement its own programs and priorities. He didn’t micromanage or second-guess every move. He set the direction, offered guidance when needed, and then stepped back to let the leaders take responsibility.

That takes confidence — not just in himself, but in others. He believes that when people are trusted, they rise to the challenge. They grow, they learn, and they lead with integrity. That’s how he builds leaders: not by giving orders, but by giving confidence. This same philosophy defined his time as Speaker of the House of Representatives. Martin Romualdez never acted like a commander barking orders.

He embodied what “Speaker” truly means — first among equals. He understood that in a legislative body, authority doesn’t come from control. It comes from coordination, from respect, from the willingness to listen.

He gave House leaders and committee chairpersons the space to perform their duties with independence and dignity. He trusted them to use their experience, to act in good faith, and to serve the people responsibly.

That’s how Martin Romualdez builds leaders: not by giving orders, but by giving confidence

It would be impossible, and even wrong, for one man to decide everything for everyone. That’s not how a healthy Congress works. Real leadership means trusting others to lead — and expecting accountability in return.

Ask anyone who worked closely with him and they’ll tell you: Martin Romualdez is a listener.

He doesn’t rush decisions. He consults. He builds consensus. He prefers dialogue over directives. Every major decision in the House went through genuine discussion, marked by respect for differing views. He valued unity, but not uniformity. He wasn’t driven by ego or ambition. His goal

‘Stolen Trillions’ half-sinks into dark quicksand marked ‘Systemic Inertia.’ Around it, a crowd of exhausted Filipino ‘everyman’ figures—jeepney driver, street vendor, teacher, factory worker—struggle to pull ropes labelled ‘Public Effort’ and ‘Justice System.’ Behind the safe, an anonymous silhouette in a barong quietly funnels coins out a back hole into a sack marked ‘Ghost Projects’ and ‘Kickbacks.’ Overhead, vultures circle carrying papers labelled ‘Delayed Convictions.’ Tone: Dark, weary satire of corruption’s endurance despite convictions.

Read, write, comprehend, think

ACHANGE in the definition of “functional literacy” in the Philippine Statistics Authority’s Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Study has caused the number of illiterate Filipinos to nearly double to 24.8 million this year, according to the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM2).

In 1993, EDCOM1 found that there were around 14.5 million functionally illiterate Filipinos.

FLEMMS is a national survey that gathers information on basic and functional literacy rates, as well as educational skills qualification of the populace. The previous definition automatically confers functional literacy on all high school graduates or junior high school completers.

But the 2024 definition says functional literacy includes higher-level comprehension skills that go beyond basic reading, writing, and numeracy.

Illiterate individuals are often described as “no read, no write.” Unfortunately, basic reading and writing do not get anyone far if one is not able to understand what one is reading, much less compose one’s thoughts coherently to put it in writing.

International large-scale assessment

was always the same — to do what was right for the institution and for the country. Those who accused him of acting out of self-interest missed the bigger picture.

His influence didn’t come from control. It came from trust — trust earned through consistency, humility, and fairness.

You could see this leadership style in action during his term as Speaker, especially in the national budget process.

The Chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations was always given full authority to lead. That was true under Cong. Zaldy Co, and it remained true under Cong. Mika Suansing. But more than the personalities involved, what really defined that time was the system itself. Under Speaker Romualdez, the budget process was open, transparent, and deeply participatory.

The Minority wasn’t treated as the opposition to be ignored. They were seen as partners in shaping national priorities. From

tests determining Filipino students’ proficiency in basic subjects, as well as in critical and creative thinking, have yielded dismal results. And while Filipi-

Only then can we begin to imagine a society where people can carve out a good life for themselves and make sound democratic decisions

nos are almost chronically online, specifically on social media, many Filipinos are not able to distinguish facts from disinformation. They tend to fall prey to

committee hearings to floor deliberations, their inputs were heard, their insights valued, their concerns respected.

It wasn’t about silencing anyone; it was about making sure every voice had a seat at the table. That’s what true democracy looks like — debate without division, collaboration without compromise of principle.

That’s the kind of environment Speaker Romualdez cultivated. A House where every member mattered. A team where everyone had a role to play.

His job, as he saw it, wasn’t to dictate every move but to make sure the process stayed fair and functional. He didn’t micromanage. He managed to trust. And that made all the difference.

At the end of the day, every act of delegation is an act of faith. When the Speaker entrusts authority to a committee chairperson, it’s a vote of confidence. And with that confidence comes responsibility. Each leader becomes accountable for

propaganda and blind worship. Getting to the root of this problem is always a daunting task. EDCOM2 said it was concerned the DepEd, instead of focusing on its core mandate of basic education, is also involved in at least 261 interagency bodies. More than 150 new laws and executive issuances in the past 24 years have increased teachers’ responsibilities. The additional non-teaching tasks have caused teachers to be overworked, affecting the quality of instruction. Reforms have been recommended and we hope those in authority heed them. The current public outrage against corruption should also make us ensure that education funds are used precisely for that purpose.

Lest we drown in the details of all proposed solutions, however, it is always good to remind ourselves of the kind of population we desire to have. We want to have students know how to read and write and count, yes, but also understand what they read beyond the literal level, connect and integrate ideas, and then form their own opinions from the information they have on hand. Only then can we begin to imagine a society where people are not duped by scammers or politicians, and who can carve out a good life for themselves and make democratic decisions as a result of genuine understanding and critical thinking.

their own choices, their own actions, their own results. That’s what shared governance means — power distributed, responsibility shared, accountability personal. Martin Romualdez’s leadership didn’t need to shout to be heard. It spoke through trust, calm confidence, and results that quietly proved his point. He led with steadiness, not showmanship. He built trust instead of fear, and raised leaders instead of followers. Most of all, he led by listening. He listened before he acted, listened before he judged, and listened because he believed that wisdom often speaks in many voices. In a time when many equate leadership with control, he offered something deeper — empowerment rooted in listening. Because when a leader listens, he earns trust. When he trusts, he empowers. And when he empowers, he builds people, strengthens institutions, and helps create a nation that leads with integrity and serves with heart.

Vietnam flood death toll hits 40 as Typhoon Kalmaegi barrels in

HANOI—The death toll from a week of flooding and record rains in central Vietnam rose to 40 on Tuesday, authorities said, as another powerful storm bore down on the battered region.

Vietnam’s central belt has been deluged by torrential rains turning streets into canals, bursting riverbanks and inundating some of the country’s most-visited historic sites.

Up to 1.7 meters fell over one 24hour period in a downpour breaking national records.

The fatalities occurred in Hue, Da Nang, Lam Dong and Quang Tri provinces, according to the environment ministry’s disaster management agency, which said six people remained missing.

The onslaught of extreme weather is set to continue, with Typhoon Kalmaegi forecast to make landfall in the early hours of Friday morning, according to the national weather bureau.

Vietnam is prone to heavy rains between June and September, but scientific evidence has identified a pattern of human-driven climate change making extreme weather more frequent and destructive.

Ten typhoons or tropical storms usually affect Vietnam, directly or offshore, in a given year, but Typhoon Kalmaegi is set to be the 13th of 2025.

The storm is currently lashing the Philippines, where it has killed at least five people and displaced hundreds of thousands. AFP

Canada PM Carney says first budget will help reduce reliance on US tariffs

OTTAWA—Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government presents its first budget on Tuesday, a spending plan he says will provide “the answer” for an economy starting to buckle under US tariffs.

Carney, who led the central banks of Canada and England before entering politics this year, has pitched himself as the ideal person to steer Canada through unprecedented disruption in US ties caused by President Donald Trump.

Trump’s tariffs have hit Canada hard, driving up unemployment and squeezing businesses in crucial targeted sectors like autos, aluminum, and steel.

“Where are we going to find the

growth given the headwinds from the new US trade policy?,” Carney told reporters in South Korea this weekend, following an Asia summit.

“What this budget will do is provide the answer to that question.”

His Liberal government says the budget will address the stark new geopolitical realities facing Canada. Specific details of the spending plan are being kept under wraps until the finance minister unveils the budget in parliament on Tuesday.

Among the headline items will be expected 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 relations with the United States.

These range from port expansion to energy production and the infrastructure needed to boost extraction of critical minerals from remote areas.

Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne called the measures he’ll present on Tuesday as “an investment budget.”

“The idea is to build the Canada of tomorrow.”

Carney, who replaced Justin Trudeau as prime minister in January before being elected to a full term in April, has consistently warned Canadians that the Trump-era disruptions in US-Canada relations are not a passing phase. He said this weekend that the budget would help “reduce our reliance on the United States,” but noted that such a transformational shift “can’t happen overnight.”

Carney’s April election win left his Liberals three seats short of a majority in parliament. That means the government needs opposition support —or abstentions—to pass its budget. Because the budget is a confidence vote, its defeat would trigger fresh elections. AFP

resist Donald Trump. California did away with such partisan gerrymandering under former governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, giving the power instead to an independent panel. AFP

LOS ANGELES—Californians go to the polls Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time) in a ballot likely to further tilt the liberal state towards the Democrats, as the party seeks to neutralize gerrymandering ordered by President Donald Trump.

Governor Gavin Newsom and his allies want voters to approve a temporary re-drawing of electoral districts that would give the Democratic Party five more seats in the scramble for control of the US Congress in next year’s midterm elections.

They say they are only doing it to level the playing field after Texas

Republicans pushed through their own redistricting -- under White House pressure -- to help maintain a narrow Congressional majority that has so far given Trump carte blanche.

Republicans say it is a naked power grab that will disenfranchise the party’s voters in California, a state where they are heavily outnumbered by Democrats.

The vote is “a political ink-blot test,” Los Angeles Times columnist Mark Barbarak wrote Monday.

“A reasoned attempt to even things out in response to Texas’ attempt to nab five more congressio-

nal seats. Or a ruthless gambit to drive the California GOP to nearextinction.

“What many California voters see depends on, politically, where they stand.”

Electoral districts across the US are traditionally drawn following the national census taken every ten years, theoretically so the electoral map reflects the people who live there. In reality, most boundaries are party political decisions, so whichever grouping is in power at the time gets to set the rules for the next decade’s contests. AFP

BRUSSELS—EU environment ministers will Tuesday make a last-ditch attempt to reassert the bloc’s climate ambitions by nailing down key emissions targets in the run-up to the UN’s climate summit in Brazil.

“To come empty-handed to Belem,” where the COP30 talks are taking place from November 10 to 21, “would really undermine the EU’s credibility,” warned an EU diplomat.

Talks are expected to stretch into the night among the European Union’s 27 member states, which have been haggling for months over two separate targets for slashing greenhouse-gas emissions: one for 2035 and the other for 2040.

Trump administration’s Operation Midway Blitz, an organized effort to round-up and deport undocumented immigrants in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, has been the target of frequent protests and growing opposition from

and local

of the

have

unemployment and squeezing businesses in crucial targeted sectors like autos, aluminum, and steel. AFP

IN BRIEF

Behind only China, the United States and India in terms of emissions, the EU has been the most committed of the major polluters to climate action and has already cut emissions by 37 percent compared to 1990. But after blazing a trail, the EU’s political landscape has shifted to the right, and climate concerns have largely taken a back seat to defense and competitiveness.

Ministers’ most urgent challenge on

Code of Ethics for PH pro athletes approved

Boxing prospect

Mindoro eyed for SEA Games

UNDEFEATED middleweight prospect Weljon Mindoro is open to the possibility of becoming part of the Philippine boxing team to the 33rd Southeast Asian Games.

Mindoro along with his handlers Gerry Balmes and Orly Barcelango all agreed that being part of the national team is certainly a huge honor.

They’re just waiting for a formal communique from either the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines and Philippine Olympic Committee to make everything official.

During the presentation of the 3rd Asian Youth Games medalists on Monday, POC president Abraham ‘Bambol’ Tolentino mentioned the inclusion of the 25-year-old Mindoro in the boxing team list.

“Wala naman kaming ihi-hindi. Sa tingin ko ngayon mas maganda kung maging pormal na lang ‘yung pagmi-meeting diyan,” said Barcelango in the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum on Tuesday at the conference hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

“So sa ngayon hindi kami mag-oo and hindi rin kami mag-hindi. Pero kung mapagmitingan ng maayos, wala namang problema. Hindi namin ipagdadamot si Weljon dahil isang karangalan ‘yun makapagsilbi para sa bayan.”

Mindoro, a native of Zamboanga Del Sur, previously competed in the Batang Pinoy where he was a bronze medal winner in Tagum, Davao del Norte, and Palarong Pambansa in which he snatched a silver medal in Pangasinan. And yet never made it to the national team.

Bugna, Liwag share MVP honors at PPS Puerto Princesa tourney

KATHLYN Bugna picked up right where she left off – in winning form – as she swept two titles to match Athena Liwag’s twin victories in the Puerto Princesa National Junior Tennis Championships at the Karawatan–La Paragua Sports Complex in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan last weekend. Bugna, who took a well-deserved break after dominating various legs of the Palawan Pawnshop junior circuit in Pasig, Iloilo, Bacolod, Roxas, Kalibo, Lapu-Lapu and Cebu, marked her highly anticipated return by capturing the girls’ 16- and 18-and-under singles crowns.

The La Carlota City/Batang Onay ace overpowered Liwag, 6-1, 6-2, in the 16-andU finals before routing top seed Claire Casiller, 6-1, 6-2, to claim the 18-and-U trophy in the weeklong tournament, part of the Palawan Pawnshop’s nationwide junior tennis circuit, spearheaded by president and CEO Bobby Castro, which continues to inspire young players to follow in the footsteps of international star Alex Eala. Meanwhile, registration is ongoing for the Mayor Edwin Olivarez National Open Tennis Championships slated for Nov. 6-23 at the Olivarez Sports Center in Sucat, Parañaque. Liwag, for her part, got the better of Bugna in the 14-andU division, taking a 1-0 (ret.) win following a dominant 6-2, 6-0 triumph over Maria Calingasan in the 12-and-U finals. The rising Olongapo City standout thus matched Bugna’s two-title haul to share MVP honors.

Bugna and Liwag added doubles titles to their tallies – Bugna teaming up with Sofia Aguilera for the girls’ 18-and-U crown, and Liwag pairing with Teresinha Calingasan to rule the 16-and-U event. Jeffrey Morales Jr. and Kyle Teodisio captured the boys’ 14-and-U doubles plum, while Cristiano Calingasan and Troan Vytiaco took the 18-and-U title.

By Randy M. Caluag

IN a landmark move for Philippine professional sports, the Office of the President has approved the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) Resolution No. 2025-09 (s. 2025), formally adopting the Code of Ethics and Conduct for Professional Athletes — the first unified ethical framework governing all GABlicensed athletes in the country.

The approval, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin on behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., marks a historic milestone in promoting integrity, sportsmanship, and professionalism across the nation’s professional sporting landscape.

According to GAB, the newly adopted Code of Ethics aims to establish uniform behavioral standards for all professional athletes, strengthen public trust and confidence in the regulation of professional sports, and prevent unethical practices such as game-fixing that threaten the integrity of competition.

It also provides a clear legal basis for disciplinary action in cases of misconduct.

“This is a proud moment not only for GAB but for the entire Philippine professional sports community,” the agency said in a statement. “It serves as a strong message that ethics, fairness, and honor remain at the heart of every game.”

The newly approved Code underscores the government’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of conduct among professional athletes, reaffirming that sports excellence must always go hand in hand with integrity and accountability.

King Crunchers face dangerous Spin Doctors

Cignal vs PGJC-Navy

In the boys’ division, Lipa City’s Rafa Monte de Ramos also shone with victories in both the 16-and-U and 18-and-U categories. He prevailed over Aljhon Rombawa via a 1-0 (ret.) win then blasted Nicholas Andal, 6-2, 6-1, in the centerpiece division of the tournament sanctioned by Philta and supported by Dunlop, Universal Tennis, and ICON Golf and Sports. Balanga, Bataan’s Cristiano Calingasan ruled the boys’ 14-and-U division with a 6-1, 2-0 (ret.) victory over Enzo Masaga, while Quezon City’s Francis Angeles outlasted Diezel Lerit, 7-5, 6-3, to clinch the 12-andU crown. Angeles completed a “twinkill” after also bagging the 10-and-U unisex title with a 4-2, 4-1 win over Matias Aguilera.

In the men’s side, Sebastian Santos trounced Mingoy Calingasan, 8-2, to claim the singles championship before partnering with Andre Santos for an 8-4 victory over Monte de Ramos and Rombawa in the men’s doubles finals. Santos also teamed up with Rodel Ubay to bag the pro-am doubles crown.

Other winners were Legends (40-and-above): Anthony Josue & Paul Navarro; Legends (50-and-above): Nelvie Funtilon & Roger Ventura; Classified Men’s Doubles (Class B): Rhett Anas & Roger Ventura; Class C: Jaime Fernandez & Neribert Rausa; Class D: Michael Dela Torre & Oliver Dela Torre; and Classified Mixed Doubles: Mera Jopida & Raul Bacosa.

Alas Pilipinas girls vs. Chinese Taipei in AVC U16 quarter nals in Jordan

AMMAN, Jordan—Alas Pilipinas girls’ team opens its Final 8 campaign against unbeaten Chinese Taipei in the 2nd Asian Volleyball Confederation Women’s U16 Championship on Wednesday at the Prince Hamzah Sports Hall.

Buoyed by their breakthrough 25-21, 25-22, 2522 win over Iran to finish second in Pool B, the national youth team continues its dream run with an acid test against Chinese Taipei, which swept Pool D, at 6:30 p.m. (Philippine time).

Team captain Xyz Rayco, who has been leading the way for Alas U16, vows to keep growing with her teammates in their first-ever international tournament.

“You can expect us to improve. We’ll correct the mistakes we made in the game [against Iran] and play even better in the next one,” said Rayco, who scored 13 points to take down Iran. Alas plays in the Asian Women’s U16 Championship’s unique Final 8 format, grouped with defending champion Japan, Chinese Taipei and Thailand in Pool F, where the top two will advance to the semifinals.

The Philippines will carry over a 0-1 record from its four-set defeat to Japan in the first round, same goes with Thailand, which lost to Chinese Taipei,

25-18, 22-25, 25-18, 25-23, on Monday.

Pool E is composed of China (1-0) Hong Kong (1-0), Korea (0-1) and Uzbekistan (0-1).

Chinese Taipei banks on leading scorer Chen Ting-Yi, who dropped 24 points to beat Thailand and complete a first-round sweep. Chan Tzu-Yun and Cheng Yung-Yu are also expected to step up.

“I want to win against the Team Philippines. And I hope everyone will do their best,” said Chen through a translator.

Alas U16 coach Edwin Leyva urged his wards, also led by setter Resty Jane Olaguir, spikers Nadeth Herbon and Merish Beltran, middle blockers Madele Gale and Jhenica Sadia, as well as libero Frances Ramos, to keep on believing in themselves.

“The other teams are really good, but they’re definitely beatable,” Leyva said. “We just have to come up with the right game plan and strategies to outsmart their style of play.”

AVC and Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara also congratulated and encouraged the youngest national team to keep improving moments after beating Iran.

Alas girls wrap up their final eight campaign, taking on Thailand on Thursday at 4 p.m. (Philippine time).

FRESH from a statement four-set victory over defending champion and archrival Cignal, Criss Cross braces for another stern test as it battles an unpredictable Savouge side today (Wednesday) in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference at the Paco Arena in Manila.

The King Crunchers, who roared to a spotless 3-0 record after foiling the Super Spikers in a gritty 25-23, 24-26, 25-22, 25-18 triumph last Sunday, are determined to keep their momentum going as the tournament organized by Sports Vision and backed by Alpha Insurance, Premiere EMS, Buffalo’s Wings N’ Things, and Arena Plus heats up.

Anchored on the steady playmaking of young setter Adrian Villados and the offensive brilliance of three-time league MVP Jude Garcia, Criss Cross has emerged as the early benchmark this conference. The King Crunchers’ blend of power, precision and defensive discipline has made them the most balanced squad so far – a team that can weather tense moments and finish strong under pressure.

At 4 p.m., however, the King Crunchers face a different kind of challenge in Savouge – a team whose unpredictable style and never-say-die attitude make it a dangerous opponent capable of springing a surprise. Despite their early dominance, Garcia remains cautious, stressing that consistency and focus will be key to sustaining their winning run.

“Lahat na-apply talaga ‘yung tinuro ni coach Tai (Bundit), kung ano ‘yung ginalaw namin sa Thailand. Pero marami pang lapses – kailangan pa namin trabahuhin kung ano ‘yung kulang at mag-focus lang every game,” said Garcia, who delivered 24 points in their win over Cignal last Sunday. Garcia and company know that complacency could spell trouble, especially against a Savouge team slowly finding its rhythm.

Weljon Mindoro

GAB chairman Francisco Rivera with GM Rogelio Antonio

Athena Liwag (left) and Kathlyn Bugna (second from left) share the MVP honors, while Rafa Monte de Ramos holds his trophy as they pose with Palawan Pawnshop National Tennis Championships founder Bobby Castro (right) during awards rites.

Members of the Alas Pilipinas girls’ team are a cheerful bunch—and so are the Filipino fans in the background—after their victory over Iran. They are (front row, from lef) Nadeth Herbon, Megan Hernandez, Kimberly Peralta, Jhenica Sadia, Mischa Ambrocio, Princess Sajulga and Frances Ramos; and (back row, from (left) Hannah Grace De Luna (PT), Lerma Giron (assistant coach, Madele Gale, Xyz Rayco, Edwin Leyva (head coach), Oliver Balse (assistant Coach), Merish Beltran, Resty Jane Olaguir and Kristel Mirasol. PNVF Photo

Tennis star Eala cracks top 50 in WTA rankings

By Randy M. Caluag

FILIPINA tennis star Alex Eala has reached another career milestone, breaking into the Top 50 of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rankings for the first time.

The 20-year-old Eala climbed one spot to World No. 50 following her strong showing at the WTA 250 Hong Kong Open, where she reached the Round of 16.

The former Rafael Nadal Academy scholar defeated Great Britain’s World No. 79 Katie Boulter before bowing to Canada’s Victoria Mboko, the world’s No. 21 player, in a tight three-set battle.

Eala’s rise capped a remarkable 2025 season in which she posted a 40–26 win–loss record, highlighted

by a semifinal finish at the Miami Open and a WTA 125 title victory at the Guadalajara Open.

These performances have solidified her reputation as one of the brightest young talents in women’s tennis.

After a demanding year on tour, Eala is taking a brief rest before turning her focus to the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand this December.

Her father, Michael Eala, confirmed that she will compete in the women’s singles’ event, aiming to bring home another gold for the Philippines.

Benilde exacts revenge over Finals’ enemy Mapua, 75-65

COLLEGE of St. Benilde made sure to get its revenge over Mapua in the NCAA Season 101 men’s basketball tournament as the Blazers beat the Cardinals, 75-65, at Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Tuesday.

The Blazers, who faltered to Mapua in last year’s Finals, improved to a 6-3 record in Group B to keep their hold of the pool’s second seed.

Generally, the win gave Benilde some much-needed breathing room in the team standings but coach Charles Tiu wasn’t entirely thrilled.

“We had to take care of the ball which we did in the first half but we made mind boggling mistakes in the second half,” he said.

“Thankfully, we defended well enough to win the game.”

As a team, the Blazers turned the ball over 21 times. It also didn’t help their cause that the defending champions had active hands with 10 steals as a squad.

Still, those mistakes weren’t enough to dampen the momentum Benilde built in the first quarter.

The Blazers started out the game hot with an 18-0 lead which Mapua had a tough time getting back from.

The Cardinals were able to finish the third salvo strong, shaving Benilde’s deficit to six, 64-58, but they would only score seven lowly points in the final frame. They never took the lead the entire game.

Tony Ynot powered Benilde with an all-around game of 25 points, eight rebounds, three assists and a steal. Reigning MVP Allen Liwag also recorded a double-double in the win with 12 points and 10 rebounds.

Cyrus Cuenco finished with 14 points and seven rebounds but to no avail. Earl Sapasap also scored 13 in a losing effort. Fortunately for Mapua, despite crumbling to a 4-5 card in Group A, it still remained as the second seed behind Perpetual Help (8-1).

The scores: ST. BENILDE 75—Ynot 25, Liwag 12, Cajucom 8, Sanchez 6, Moore 6, Morales 4, Eusebio 4, Torres 3, Umali 3, Celis 2, Cometa 2, Oli 0, Ancheta 0 MAPÚA 65 —Cuenco 14, Sapasap 13, Escamis 11, Concepcion 9, Gonzales 8, Nitura 7, Reyes 4, Igliane 0, Gulapa 0, Recto 0, Ryan 0, Lazarte 0, Callangan 0 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5,

Olympiad veteran Canino stuns WIM Bach in ASEAN chess

OZAMIZ, Misamis Occidental— Olympiad veteran Ruelle Canino bared her true intentions of claiming the Woman Grandmaster title after she slew sixth seed Woman International Master Bach Ngoc Thuy of Vietnam in the second round Tuesday of the 6th ASEAN Individual Chess Championships-Gov. Henry Oaminal Cup at the Misamis Occidental Resort and Aquamarine Park here. Canino, a 17-year Woman FIDE Master from Cagayan de Oro, sparkled in conquering the higher-rated Bach and keeping her share of the lead with five other foreign rivals with perfect scores after two rounds of this nineround event that hands an outright WGM title to the eventual winner. And the reigning national women’s champion hopes she ends there as she faces Vietnamese WGM Hoang Thi Bao Tram, who hurdled Filipina Mhage Sebastian, next in the third round. Also in that lead group were Russian IM Evgenija Ovod, Mongolian

IN its effort to identify future members of the national team, the Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA) will hold the 2025 SMART/MVP Sports Foundation National Age Group Poomsae Taekwondo Championships on Sunday, Nov. 9, at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The annual event is part of PTA’s time-tested grassroots program where the growth and progress gained by every taekwondo jin through the association’s systematic methods of teaching will be put on display.

Interestingly, participants as young as four years old are among the expected 1,000 contestants from various regions who will take part in the one-day event that has the full backing of the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee and Milo.

It is open to colored belts and blackbelts in four divisions: toddler, grade school, cadet, and junior. Official events include Recognized Poomsae and Freestyle Poomsae.

The competition will begin at 9 a.m. followed by the opening ceremony at 1 p.m. where a special performance by the Philippine Taekwondo Demonstration Team is expected to awe and dazzle the crowd.

Early exposure to sports plays a vital role in youth development, and this event typifies the association’s mission to discover more worldclass athletes at a young age.

Poomsae means “form” and is performed by following systematic sequence of movements against an imaginary opponent or multiple opponents. It involves the use of hand and foot techniques such as blocking, punching, striking, thrusting, and kicking. Regular training in Poomsae enhances flexibility, breathing control, balance, power, focus, and mental discipline.

Martial arts enthusiasts and sports fans are invited to witness this exciting event—especially children interested in learning and experiencing the spirit of taekwondo.

WFM Batpelden Buyankhishig and Vietnamese WGMs Nguyen Thi Mai Hung and Nguyen Thi Thanh An. Ovod bounced the Philippines’ Jemaicah Mendoza, a World Youth bronze medalist; Bunyankhishig slammed WIM Nguyen Hong Anh; Mai Hung walloped Russian IM Ekaterina Smirnova; and Thanh An pummeled Joyce Rianna Rueda.

The country’s bets in the premier open section, spearheaded by GM John Paul Gomez, stayed in title contention and half a point behind the pace-setting Indian IM V S Raahul, Vietnamese GM Tran Tuan Minh and Indonesian FM Fabian Glen Mariano, who have pristine scores of two points each.

Gomez downed countryman IM Rolando Nolte to zoom into that 10-player second group with 1.5 points apiece.

It included other Filipinos in IMs Michael Concio, Jr., Kim Steven Yap, Jem Garcia and Pau Beramina and Thyrone James Tabernilla.

By Peter Atencio

showcase of

EXCITING times are coming for Filipino athletes competing in the next Asian Youth Games.

Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol”

St. Benilde’s Shawn Umali is about to block an attempt by a Mapua Cardinal in an NCAA game won by the Blazers, 75-65.

Alexandra Eala

Misamis Occidental Gov. Atty. Henry S. Oaminal Sr. takes on IM Zhenyong Jayden Wong while Rep. Indy Oaminal faces Ekaterina Smirnova during the ceremonial moves in the 6th ASEAN+ Individual Chess Championships (Open, Women & Challenger) in Ozamiz, Misamis Occidental

Abraham ‘Bambol’ Tolentino

Filipinos lack emergency funds to weather major health shocks

By Othel V. Campos

ERC approves updated smart meter rules for modern grid

By Alena Mae S. Flores

Timplementation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), establishing a stronger regulatory framework for the country’s transition toward a smarter, more secure and consumer-empowered electricity distribution network.

consumer and

prioritizing data privacy and cybersecurity. AMI

integrates smart meters, communication platforms and data management systems, enabling two-way information flow between consumers and distribution utilities (DUs).

“The new AMI Rules mark a milestone in the digital transformation of the country’s power distribution sector,” said ERC chairperson and chief executive Francis Saturnino Juan.

“By enabling real-time data exchange and empowering both utilities and consumers, we are laying the foundation for a smarter, more secure, and inclusive energy future,” said Juan. The amended framework simplifies

the approval process for DUs, consolidating various approvals into a single application for capital expenditure projects necessary for AMI implementation, or incorporating them into the DUs’ reset process. Under the rules, DUs can adopt AMI systems that comply with prescribed technical standards, cybersecurity protocols and consumer data privacy safeguards.

A key feature is the institutionalization of consumer access to near real-time usage data through the Consumer Meter Data Channel (CMDC), enabling households and businesses to make more informed and efficient energy decisions.

CONGLOMERATE Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. (AEV) reported a consolidated net income of P17.3 billion in the first nine months of the year, down 8 percent from the same period last year, the company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

The decline was attributed to weaker performance from its power generation and banking units.

AEV’s net income for the third quarter reached P8.9 billion, a 22-percent increase from the same period a year ago.

Aboitiz Group president and chief executive Sabin Aboitiz said AEV’s

third-quarter results reflect the resilience of the group’s portfolio and the dedication of its teams across all businesses.

“We continue to invest in growth areas that create long-term value for our stakeholders,” said Aboitiz.

Power accounted for 60 percent of the group’s total net income in the first nine months of 2025, while food and beverage made up 25 percent.

Net income contributions from the financial services, real estate and infrastructure units were at 15 percent, 5 percent and -5 percent, respectively.

The group’s power generation unit,

FEDEX EXPANSION.

Federal Express Corp. (FedEx) announces the expansion of its authorized ShipCenters network across the Philippines to make holiday shipping more convenient and accessible. The move adds a new 2GO branch at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Road in Parañaque City to the network, bringing the total number of nationwide access points to 290 2GO stores, 18 IPX outlets and 23 Airspeed locations.

AboitizPower, contributed P12.5 billion of the total in the first nine months of the year. This was largely driven by higher generation margins, improved hydro inflows and new solar capacity from projects in Laoag, Armenia and Calatrava.

The food and beverage segment followed with P5.2 billion in income, up 25 percent year-on-year. The increase was supported by stronger performance in AboitizFoods’ flour, farms and trading businesses, along with full nine-month contributions from Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines. Jenniffer B. Austria

By Thony Rose Lesaca

PHILIPPINE businesses lost an estimated P4 trillion—or about 6 percent of their annual revenues—to fraud in 2024, according to a survey of 200 business leaders by TransUnion. The country’s business leaders are highly concerned, with seven in every ten (70 percent) expressing extreme worry about fraud’s impact. This placed the Philippines as the third highest-ranking country for fraud concerns globally, following the United States (89 percent) and India (82 percent), as noted in TransUnion’s second-half of 2025 update to its Top Fraud Trends Report. First-party fraud and scams, or

expenses such as food, rent, utilities, transport and mortgage payments. As a result, longterm financial planning is often postponed in favor of day-to-day survival.

P37.3 billion

P1.9 trillion

Gross loans as of September 2025

P2.5 trillion Metrobank’s 9-month profit

Total deposits as of September 2025

By Jenniffer B. Austria

METROPOLITAN Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) on Tuesday reported a record-high net income of P37.3 billion in the first nine months of 2025, led by strong loan expansion, improving margins and disciplined operating expenses.

The country’s second-largest private universal bank saw its pre-provision operating profit rise 12.1 percent year-on-year to P59.2 billion during the period.

“Our prudent approach in expanding our core businesses continued to support our performance in the first nine months. We’re confident that the Philippines’ long-term growth story remains strong,” said Metrobank president Fabian Dee in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

“We continue to be committed in helping our clients seize opportunities for growth as we navigate together any challenges and uncertainties on our journey ahead,” Dee said.

The bank’s net interest income increased 7.1 percent to P91.8 billion, supported by broad-based gains across business segments and sustained quarterly margin improvements.

Gross loans expanded 10.8 percent year-on-year to P1.9 trillion, with consumer loans up 15.8 percent and institutional loans higher by 9.5 percent.

authorized fraud, were identified by 25 percent of business leaders as the most significant sources of loss in the Philippines. This is higher than the global averages of 16 percent for firstparty fraud and 24 percent for authorized fraud. TransUnion Philippines chief commercial officer Yogesh Daware said “fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated, exploiting every channel and digital interaction to bypass traditional defenses.” He noted that the higher-than-average reported first-party fraud losses in the Philippines “points to a distinct local challenge. Detection requires deeper, data-driven insights into identity and behavior.”

EEI’S AWARD. EEI Corporation vice president and corporate secretary Iannoel Mondragon accepts the Golden Arrow Award on Oct. 23, 2025, at the Okada Manila. This marks the second consecutive year EEI has been recognized for good corporate governance by the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) Philippines.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

MEGAWORLD Corp., the property firm led tycoon Andrew Tan, reported a 14-percent increase in net income in the first nine months of 2025 to almost P18 billion on the back of a double-digit growth in its mall, hotel and office leasing businesses.

E R R A T U M

E R R A T U M

This is to correct an error in the Republic of the Philippines, Special Committee on Naturalization notice published in this newspaper on October 15, 22, and 29, 2025.

The correct title read: THE MATTER OF KAREN GO to be naturalized as a Filipino citizen pursuant to Republic Act No. In Item No. 14, the address of one of the character

This is to correct an error in the Republic of the Philippines, Special Committee on Naturalization notice published in this newspaper on October 15, 22, and 29, 2025. The correct title should read: IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION OF KAREN GO NGO to be naturalized as a Filipino citizen pursuant to Republic Act No. 9139. In Item No. 14, the address of one of the character witnesses should be: 504 Elcano St., Barangay 261, San Nicolas, Manila. We sincerely apologize for the typographical error and any inconvenience it may have caused.

Nine-month consolidated revenues climbed 8 percent to P64.41 billion, Megaworld said in a stock exchange disclosure Tuesday.

504 Elcano St., Barangay 261, San Nicolas, Manila. sincerely for error any may have caused. Manila TODAY

“Our year-to-date performance continues to reflect the strength of our recurring income portfolio and the sustained demand across our residential and hotel offerings,” said Megaworld president Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso. She said Megaworld remains focused on delivering long-term value through innovation, operational efficiency, and township-led growth

3. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Stockholders’ Meeting held on 26 January 2025

4. Presentation of the Annual Report and Approval of the Audited Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024

5. Open Forum

6. Ratification and Approval of the previous acts and resolutions of the Board of Directors and Corporate Officers

7. Amendment of Articles of Incorporation

● Article I Corporation Name

● Article VI Number of Independent Directors

8. Amendment of Corporation’s By-Laws

● Article II Place of Meeting Section 3

● Article II Notice of Meeting Section 4 ● Article II Quorum Section 5

● Article II Conduct of Meeting Section 6 ● Article II Manner of Voting Section 7

● Article III Qualification of a Director Section 8

even amid “mixed market conditions.”

Leasing revenues jumped 15 percent to P16.24 billion, led by the office segment, which grew 16 percent year-on-year to P11.14 billion. This stemmed from rental hikes, renewals and new leases from expanding business process outsourcing (BPO) firms and multinational companies. The firm closed about 140,000 square meters of new leases and 120,000 square meters in renewals, underscoring continued demand for its township-based offices.

The malls business earned P5.10 billion in leasing revenues, up 13 percent from last year, attributed to higher foot traffic, stronger consumer spending, and the opening of new retail spaces and more tenants, particularly in food, fashion and home stores.

BARGAIN hunting and foreign buying helped the country’s stock barometer rebound Tuesday after it dropped to a three-year low the previous day.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) advanced 38.98 points, or 0.67 percent, to close at 5,867.04. The broader all shares index climbed 9.98 points, or 0.28 percent, to 3,558.88. The peso strengthened to 58.515 on Tuesday from 58.79 on Monday.

“The benchmark stock index rebounded modestly on the back of bargain hunting and net foreign buying. Monday’s plunge brought many blue chips to compelling valuations, making them attractive to both opportunistic traders and long-term investors,” said Juan Paolo Colet, managing director at China Bank Corp.

Despite the modest rebound, Colet noted that the market’s direction remains uncertain as political and economic issues could still weigh on sentiment.

Analysts also said investors continue to await the release of thirdquarter gross domestic product (GDP) and October inflation data. Results of these reports could significantly affect the market’s direction.

In the near term, immediate support remains at 5,800 and resistance at 6,000.

Sectors ended mixed. Financials, property, and services closed in positive territory, increasing by 2.09 percent, 1.94 percent, and 0.12 percent, respectively.

Conversely, industrial, mining and oil, and holding firms ended in the red, declining by 1.24 percent, 1.20 percent, and 0.07 percent, respectively.

9. Appointment of External Auditor for year ending 2025

10. Election of the 2025 Board of Directors

11. Other Matters

12. Adjournment

Only stockholders of record as of 9 November 2025 are entitled to notice and to vote at this meeting.

to notice and to vote at this meeting.

The hotel unit also recorded P4.13 billion in revenues, marking a 13-percent year-on-year rise. This was due to higher room rates, an increase in business and leisure travelers and additional rooms from new hotels such as the Grand Westside Hotel.

Real estate sales reached P40.24 billion, a 6-percent increase from last year, supported by steady demand and ongoing construction across residential projects in Cavite and Bacolod.

Value turnover reached P5.36 billion. Foreign investors were net buyers, snapping up bargains that resulted in a net foreign buying total of P339.78 million.

Market breadth was positive, with 105 stocks closing higher while 83 stocks ended lower.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. was the day’s top gainer, increasing 10.5 percent to P25.20. Conversely, the share price of International Container Terminal Services Inc. slipped 0.57 percent to P526. Jenniffer B. Austria

Stockholders can attend and participate in the meeting remotely via Zoom communication. Stockholders also have the option to vote in absentia or appoint Chairman as

the option to vote in absentia or appoint the Chairman as proxy.

Stockholders can attend and participate in the meeting remotely via Zoom communication. Stockholders also have the option to vote in absentia or appoint the Chairman as proxy.

Stockholders who intend to attend by remote communication shall inform the Company by email to acemczamboanga@gmail.com on or before 5:00 PM of 24 November 2025, subject to the procedure set in the Information Statement which will be posted in the Company’s website pmczamboanga.com. In the same website, stockholders may access the following: (a) Minutes of the Meeting on 26 January 2025, and (b) Proxy Form for Attendance at Meeting and other meeting documents required under Section 49 of the Revised Corporation Code. The link for the Zoom webinar will be sent to the email address of the stockholders who registered to attend via remote communication.

Stockholders who intend to attend by remote communication shall inform the Company by email to acemczamboanga@gmail.com on or before 5:00 PM of 24 November 2025, subject to the procedure set in the Information Statement which will be posted in the Company’s website pmczamboanga.com. In the same website, stockholders may access the following: (a) Minutes of the Meeting on 26 January 2025, and (b) Proxy Form for Attendance at Meeting and other meeting documents required under Section 49 of the Revised Corporation Code. The link for the Zoom webinar will be sent to the email address of the stockholders who registered to attend via remote communication.

Stockholders who intend to attend by remote communication shall inform the Company by email to acemczamboanga@gmail.com on or before 5:00 PM of 24 November 2025, subject to the procedure set in the Information Statement which will be posted in the Company’s website pmczamboanga.com. In the same website, stockholders may access the following: (a) Minutes of the Meeting on 26 January 2025, and (b) Proxy Form for Attendance at Meeting and other meeting documents required under Section 49 of the Revised Corporation Code. The link for the Zoom webinar will be sent to the email address of the stockholders who registered to attend via remote communication.

To those who would opt to participate by voting through the Chairman as proxy, the deadline for submission of proxies will be on 28 November 2025 on or before 5:00 pm. Those who are unable to join the meeting via remote communication but wish to vote on items in the agenda may appoint the Chairman as proxy with specific voting instructions which will be duly counted. Proxies can be submitted to the Office of the Corporate Secretary or via email to the aforementioned address. For individual stockholders, the submission must be accompanied by a copy of a government issued ID as proof of identification During the meeting, the Board shall entertain questions and comments after the presentation of the Annual Report. Questions which were not answered during the meeting shall be forwarded to the Office of the Corporate Secretary for appropriate response via email.

To those who would opt to participate by voting through the Chairman as proxy, the deadline for submission of proxies will be on 28 November 2025 on or before 5:00 pm. Those who are unable to join the meeting via remote communication but wish to vote on items in the agenda may appoint the Chairman as proxy with specific voting instructions which will be duly counted. Proxies can be submitted to the Office of the Corporate Secretary or via email to the aforementioned address. For individual stockholders, the submission must be accompanied by a copy of a government issued ID as proof of identification

To those who would opt to participate by voting through the Chairman as proxy, the deadline for submission of proxies will be on 28 November 2025 on or before 5:00 pm. Those who are unable to join the meeting via remote communication but wish to vote on items in the agenda may appoint the Chairman as proxy with specific voting instructions which will be duly counted. Proxies can be submitted to the Office of the Corporate Secretary or via email to the aforementioned address. For individual stockholders, the submission must be accompanied by a copy of a government issued ID as proof of identification During the meeting, the Board shall entertain questions and comments after the presentation of the Annual Report. Questions which were not answered during the meeting shall be forwarded to the Office of the Corporate Secretary for appropriate response via email.

For ASM-related queries, please email to acemczamboanga@gmail.com or contact the Office of the Corporate Secretary (Investment Relations Office) at +63 917 779 9816. For shareholding concerns, please contact +63 917 779 9816 or via email directly to acemczamboanga@gmail.com

During the meeting, the Board shall entertain questions and comments after the presentation of the Annual Report. Questions which were not answered during the meeting shall be forwarded to the Office of the Corporate Secretary for appropriate response via email. For ASM-related queries, please email to acemczamboanga@gmail.com or contact the Office of the Corporate Secretary (Investment Relations Office) at +63 917 779 9816. For shareholding concerns, please contact +63 917 779 9816 or via email directly to acemczamboanga@gmail.com

For ASM-related queries, please email to acemczamboanga@gmail.com or contact the Office of the Corporate Secretary (Investment Relations Office) at +63 917 779 9816. For shareholding concerns, please contact +63 917 779 9816 or via email directly to acemczamboanga@gmail.com

Dr. Giovanni Paolo C. Gimena, M.D., FPBS

Dr. Giovanni Paolo C. Gimena, M.D., FPBS

Dr. Giovanni Paolo C. Gimena, M.D., FPBS (MS-NOV.

2025)

chief executive Ramon Ang.

“This year, the market has presented even greater challenges, yet we’re proud of how we’ve stood against external pressures and even competition,” Ang said.

“Our performance over the past three quarters has been a testament to this, and we remain optimistic about maintaining this momentum through the rest of the year,” he said.

Despite

“As a refiner, we’ve had to balance financial resilience with delivering value across every aspect of our business,” said Petron president and

Combined sales volume for the Philippines and Malaysia reached 84.7 million barrels, a 3-percent increase from 82.6 million barrels reported in 2024. This was led by an 11-percent improvement in Philippine retail sales, allowing Petron to maintain a significant market share.

ADB offers to finance P32-b ferry system

By Othel V. Campos

THE Asian Development Bank (ADB) has offered to finance the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) proposed P32-billion Manila BayPasig River-Laguna Lake (MAPALLA) Electric Ferry System project, a modern, fully electric water transport network intended to ease Metro Manila’s chronic traffic congestion and revive its waterways. PETRON

ADB senior regional maritime specialist Duncan McIntosh confirmed the bank’s strong interest, saying it is “very interested” in the project and

EastWest’s income rose 14% to P6.6b in three quarters

EAST West Banking Corp. (EastWest) reported a 14-percent increase in its net income in the first nine months of 2025 to P6.6 billion on consistent core revenue generation. The bank’s return on equity (ROE) stood at 11.6 percent.

Total revenues grew by 16 percent year-on-year to P37.3 billion, supported by an 18-percent rise in net interest income to P29.7 billion and fueled largely by the bank’s consumer lending business, which expanded by 17 percent and now constitutes 85 percent of the total loan portfolio. Fee income also saw a robust 27-percent increase to P5.3 billion.

Operating expenses increased at a slower pace of 7 percent to P19.2 billion, attributed to investments in personnel and business expansion. This led to an improved cost-to-income ratio of 51.4 percent, a reduction of 412 basis points, on the back of faster revenue growth, productivity gains and digital efficiencies.

EastWest chief executive Jerry Ngo said the core consumer banking business is thriving, aligning perfectly with the evolving needs of the bank’s customers.

“Our strategic funding initiatives are likewise effectively supporting our growth plans and fortifying our funding structure. These critical components have significantly contributed to our steady revenue generation,” he said. Ngo said the bank continues to actively manage risks and ensure adequate provisions, which, combined with operational efficiencies, has resulted in robust and sustainable profitability.

prepared to evaluate it through sovereign or private lending windows, or a blended Public-Private Partnership (PPP) format.

“We are very willing and ready to support the initiative,” McIntosh said.

He said ADB’s unique structure, which “house[s] both sovereign and private sector operations under one roof,” allows it to work flexibly regardless of whether the borrower is government, private or a PPP. Financing could be processed through a sovereign loan via its Philippine country office or through its private sector operations.

DOTr chief development communications officer John Patrick Dayao formally presented the project on

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has approved a landmark ruling to lower the eligibility threshold for participation in the Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA) and the Retail Aggregation Program (RAP) from 500 kilowatts (kW) to 100 kW average monthly peak demand.

The new threshold will take effect on June 26, 2026, paving the way for more medium-sized enterprises and institutions to directly choose their electricity suppliers or aggregate their demand under the RAP.

The ERC’s initiative is a key part

of its efforts to implement the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA) and fulfill its mandate to foster competition, drive efficiency and empower consumers in the electric power sector.

“By expanding retail access to more end-users, we are promoting genuine consumer choice and driving competition that can lead to better prices, improved service quality, and innovation in the power sector,” said ERC chairperson and chief executive Francis Saturnino Juan in a statement Tuesday.

The lowering of the threshold is a statutory mandate under the EPIRA, and the commission said it opted for a phased and coordinated approach to

Tuesday at the Norway-Philippines Electric Ferries Conference 2025 in Makati City. Dayao confirmed that the ADB is already closely involved in the project’s feasibility study.

The MAPALLA Electric Ferry System is envisioned as a low-carbon, high-frequency alternative to road travel, designed to move thousands of commuters daily while supporting urban river rehabilitation efforts.

The entire network will link Manila Bay, the Pasig and Marikina rivers, and Laguna de Bay using a fleet of 101 electric vessels operating across 35 ferry stations.

Passenger volume is projected at 10,000 per day in the first year, with expectations to rise to more than 30,000 daily as routes expand and ridership grows.

“Road networks are reaching their limit. Water transport opens a mobility layer that has been neglected for decades,” Dayao said, outlining the two-stage implementation plan. The first phase will cover the Pasig and Marikina River routes, deploying 75 electric vessels. Construction is targeted from 2027 to 2029, with a commercial launch scheduled for 2029.

First Gen seeks hydro assets to

support solar, wind push

FIRST Gen Corp., led by the Lopez family, said it is pursuing opportunities in the hydropower industry as it aims for a total of 13 gigawatts (GW) in renewable energy capacity.

The company views hydro as a crucial complement to its growing solar and wind portfolio, according to a company executive.

“If you look at what we’ve been doing, Casecnan came up, we looked into it. CBK came up, we looked into it. Because hydro is a nice complement to geothermal, to solar and wind,” said First Gen vice president and head of strategy and planning Jay Joel Soriano.

First Gen, which operates power plants utilizing geothermal, solar, wind and natural gas, won the bidding for the 165-megawatt (MW) Casec-

ensure market readiness and operational stability.

“Lowering the contestability threshold to 100 kW and implementing it in a deliberate and orderly fashion marks a significant advancement in unlocking the full potential of open access and consumer choice in the Philippines,” Juan said.

“This move underscores our commitment to fostering a fair, competitive, and transparent electricity market that delivers enduring benefits to Filipino consumers,” he said.

The eight-month transition period before effectivity allows distribution utilities (DUs) and Retail Metering Service Providers (RMSPs) sufficient

nan hydroelectric power plant in 2024 with a $526-million offer, above the government’s minimum bid price. The acquisition allows the company to save time and costs compared to building a new facility.

The company also participated in the bidding for the Caliraya-Botocan-Kalayaan (CBK) hydroelectric power plants but lost to the Aboitiz Group.

Soriano cited the need for balancing technologies like hydro to support the incoming intermittent renewable capacity. The Green Energy Auction Program 5 is expected to usher in 3 GW of offshore wind, with thousands of megawatts of solar capacity also forecasted to come online.

Alena Mae S. Flores

time to procure and install compliant metering facilities.

This approach also addresses key concerns raised by stakeholders during public consultations, particularly on the availability of the DUs’ Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), procurement timelines and potential stranded capacities from existing Power Supply Agreements (PSAs).

The ERC also amended and issued the new Rules to Govern the Implementation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) by distribution utilities (DUs) and ERC-authorized Entities, which will guide the rollout of smart metering systems across the country.

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE. Union Bank of the Philippines announces the launch of its UB Negosyante Christmas Village at BRAND CON 2025 to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) leverage the peak holiday season. UnionBank’s dedicated space, scheduled for Nov. 11 to Nov. 13 at Newport Resorts World, will feature local merchants utilizing QRPH-powered payment solutions for fast, secure and seamless transactions. Leading the launch are UnionBank chief marketing officer Albert Cuadrante and BRAND CON founder and chairman Bingo Soriano.

PHITEN STORE. Techno Holdings Corp. (THC) announces the official launch of Phiten in the Philippines, marking a significant step in giving Filipinos access to high-quality, science-backed health and wellness solutions from Japan. Phiten’s first Philippine retail store will open at the THC Health & Beauty Hub (THBH) at the 6th level of Shangri-La Plaza Mall by year-end. The hub stretches to include the family of Japanese brands operated by THC including Miss Esthe, Nora Hair Salon and Nora Lab and Phiten’s IP Salon.

HALEON EXECUTIVE. Haleon, a leading consumer healthcare company specializing in everyday health with brands such as Centrum, Sensodyne and Robitussin, names Maimai Madrid-Punzalan as general manager for the Philippines. Punzalan succeeds Jeffrey Go, who was appointed as general manager for Haleon Taiwan. Haleon, formerly known as GSK Consumer Health, has a strong portfolio of trusted brands spanning multivitamins and supplements, oral care and over-thecounter drugs.

COMMUNITY

Farewell to Blake, the ‘goodest’ boy who started it all

By Sophia Bughaw and Julliana Estrecho

IN the bustling world of restaurants, where the focus often lies on culinary excellence and customer service, one establishment has stood out for its unique blend of comfort, a palpable sense of family, and warmth.

At the heart of Blake’s Wings and Steaks is not just its delicious American comfort food but also a beloved canine companion, Blake, namesake and embodiment of the personality and spirit of this cherished food establishment. .

Blake has become an inseparable part of the identity of the restaurant, symbolizing the welcoming atmosphere that patrons have come to love. Like many Filipino families, Joana Manalo—owner of Blake’s Wings and Steaks—shares a deep love for pets.

So deep that when her family opened their first restaurant in 2014, they named

it after their Siberian Husky, Blake, who had been part of their journey from the start. His playful spirit and gentle presence became a source of joy and inspiration for the family, shaping the very heart of the brand.

But on October 21 of this year, Blake crossed the rainbow bridge, bringing to a close a decade of love, loyalty, and laughter—leaving behind more than fond memories.

For the Manalos, he was more than a pet—he was family, a loyal companion whose name now stands for warmth, comfort, and the sense of home that defines their restaurant.

steaks, and wings. The family tradition of naming their businesses after their dogs came into play in a charming twist. A small milk tea shop named after their dog Bruce, their first venture, set the stage for Blake’s. The name Blake, which rhymes with “ribs & steaks,” was an effortless choice, marking the tribute of the restaurant to the newest member of their family.

By Julliana Estrecho and Stefan Mendoza

UST’s Faculty of Arts and Letters

(AB) started a new annual graduation tradition by including the support staff in the marching ceremony last June 2025.

The photos and videos of support staff marching in the graduation ceremony last year went viral, leading to the declaration of a new tradition. In a typical graduation, only students and academic personnel are allowed to march. The AB’s new administration made a major difference by making the ceremony more inclusive. Allowing support staff to march onstage honors their contributions and gives them the recognition they deserve.

PH’s first metallomics research facility opens in UP

THE UP Marine Science Institute opened the first metallomics facility in the Philippines last Wednesday, October 22, 2025. Led by Balik Scientist Dr. Irene B. Rodriguez, the establishment of the metallomics facility will help advance research on trace metals, macronutrients, and their interactive effects on marine biogeochemical cycles.

This followed Dr. Rodriguez’s Balik Scientist Exit Report Presentation, “From Concept to Capability: Navigating Metallomics in the Philippines”, which showcased the recent research outputs of the Inorganic Biogeochemistry and Biotechnology Research laboratory at the UP Marine Science Institute. The metallomics facility is funded by the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD).

“The goal is to use metals and metalloenzymes as environmental cues,” said Dr. Rodriguez. In her talk, she explained how studying metals in marine environ-

ments can help further our understanding of ocean health and chemical cycles. Metallomics is the study of metals within cells and their role in biological systems. The presence of metals in the marine environment can be greatly influential, especially on microorganisms.

This includes the dinoflagellates that give corals their color, the phytoplankton that cause harmful algal blooms, and the cyanobacteria that drive major chemical processes in the ocean. Aside from their role in photosynthesis and providing oxygen, cyanobacteria also convert atmospheric nitrogen and carbon dioxide into forms that can be used by living cells and organisms.

“The new metallomics facility now provides the foundation for sustained, high-impact research,” said Dr. Fezoil Decena, Institution Development Division Director of DOST-PCAARRD.

Dr. Rodriguez already has plans for using the metallomics facility for future projects with DOST.

Establishing the metallomics facil-

“Blake represents what we wanted the place to feel like — comforting, welcoming, and full of good energy.… he’s definitely part of the heart and personality behind it,” Joana shared when asked how important Blake was in making their restaurant.

The restaurant retained its vision and inviting atmosphere, and Blake’s presence remains deeply felt in every corner, even after his passing. For Joana, the bright and positive energy that fills the spaces of their restaurant is a heartfelt reminder of the love and happiness Blake brought into their lives.

The inception of Blake’s Wings and Steaks is rooted in a simple yet profound idea: to serve honest and hearty comfort food. It was a passion project initiated by Joana’s mother, the founder of Blake’s, who envisioned a menu filled with family favorites. The restaurant embraced its identity as a go-to spot for American comfort food with dishes such as ribs,

As Joana reminisced about her memorable moments with Blake, she recounted a playful memory where he became the star of the show during their 2017 interview with Booky, when they got featured as the Top Loved Restaurant of the Month. She revealed that it was the interviewer’s idea to include Blake in the feature.

“We took Blake to the restaurant for the shoot, and boy, was he a natural. As the ultimate star of the day, he got to eat so much steak as his talent fee. Too much, actually, his tummy got upset for days after that shoot. So, lesson learned after that.”

The fond memory of Blake being the “goodest” boy warms Joana’s hearts within the walls of their restaurant and melts the hearts of everyone who once surrounded him.

Blake’s high spirit and loving personality continue to live not only in their minds but also in their hearts. His passing may have left an ache that words can hardly ease, but his warm presence remains deeply felt in every laugh, every meal shared, and every story retold.

To the “goodest” boy who loves his Porterhouse steaks, may your memory always be cherished.

ity took many years. The work began in 2020, after Dr. Rodriguez joined the faculty roll of the UP Marine Science Institute. Dr. Rodriguez built her laboratories in both the Edgardo Gomez Hall, UP Diliman and the Bolinao Marine Laboratory, Pangasinan. Since returning to the Philippines, she has led research on deciphering the role of trace metals in toxin production during harmful algal blooms, production of metabolites by microalgae, and the internal cycling of nutrients between corals and Symbiodiniaceae, a family of symbiotic dinoflagellates that

live within corals. The opening of the metallomics facility also marks the 5th anniversary of the founding of Dr. Rodriguez’s laboratory, the Inorganic Biogeochemistry and Biotechnology Research Laboratory. With the ideals of “Balik Puso, Balik Pilipinas” in mind, Dr. Rodriguez is determined to build a network of scientists and researchers who will advance the field of metallomics in the country. She hopes that more Filipinos can join her in advancing marine biogeochemistry and biotechnology.

The facilities, teaching staff, and the students are what comes to mind when one thinks of a university. However, there is another layer to a university’s environment that is often overlooked: the security and janitorial staff who ensure the university is up and running through their continued cleaning and protection.

In an interview, Tammy Angeline S. Macalma, a student from the Faculty of Arts and Letters (AB), said she feels more comfortable and secure on campus thanks to the presence of support staff. She also expressed appreciation for AB’s graduation tradition that honors them.

“They’re an integral part of our school, and it’s right and fitting that we recognize their hard work,” she said. Macalma recalled a memory from her final semester last academic year, when her classes ended as late as 7 p.m.

“It was already fairly dark. Knowing they were there with us made the walk inside the campus less scary,” she added.

Another group of AB students shared their sentiments when asked for their opinions on the university’s support staff.

“Guards make you feel safe and the custodians keep the place spotless,” Marion Nathaniel L. Faustino and his friends commented.

“Strict to a fault at times, sometimes ‘di ka papapasukin ‘pag mali suot mo. The custodians are sufficient… I feel bad whenever matatapakan ko ang bagong mop lang tapos nagmamadali,” says Manuel L. Jabson, a student from UST’s College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (CTHM). Both types of students from AB and the student from the CTHM share similar feelings towards the security and janitorial staff.

When asked if the security and janitorial staff should be recognized for their work, all of the students that were interviewed agreed. Both groups believe that without the support staff, the environment of the school changes. There would be no longer individuals who check for potential threats and no one left to make sure the facilities are clean and working for use.

“It’s not a job that gets recognition, but they deserve it,” Jabson said.

The recent annual graduation rites of the UST’s Faculty of Arts and Letters emphasized the efforts of the faculty’s support staff. This small gesture helped build a more harmonious relationship between the students and support staff, celebrating their hard work that is often overlooked.

Henry & Sons, partners back Benguet farmers with organic fertilizer

HENRY & Sons, together with The Giving Café and its social development arm, the Foundation for Sustainable Coffee Excellence (FSCE), launched another meaningful initiative for its partner farmers in Sitio Hartwell, Itogon, Benguet to produce higher yield and better-quality beans.

In collaboration with Harbest Agribusiness Corporation, the group distributed organic fertilizers and conducted hands-on training sessions aimed at strengthening soil health, improving yields, and securing the long-term sustainability of coffee production in the community. With the coffee cherries already ripening on the trees, the timing of the fertilizer distribution is crucial. As the harvest season approaches this November through February, both farmers and partners are optimistic that the positive effects of this initiative—healthier crops, improved yields, and better-quality beans—will soon be visible.

For Henry & Sons’ initiative is a di-

rect investment in the livelihood of its partner farmers. A healthier, more abundant harvest contributes to the company’s coffee supply chain, while simultaneously ensuring that growers have the chance to sell additional pro-

duce to other buyers. The shared success creates a cycle of growth where both the farmers and the broader coffee industry benefit. Through Harbest Agribusiness Corporation, farmers in Sitio Hartwell re-

ceived donations of Naturcomplet-G Granulated Humic Acid and Effective Micro-Organisms (EM-1). Both are 100% organic and chemical-free solutions designed to boost soil fertility and plant resilience. Beyond the provision of materials, Harbest’s experts conducted an on-ground workshop, guiding farmers on proper application methods to maximize benefits and ensure safe, effective usage. The effort was further inspired by Harbest COO Julius Barcelona, whose vision of supporting grassroots agriculture and helping uplift the coffee industry has been pivotal in shaping similar collaborations. His advocacy underscores the shared belief that sustainable farming begins with empowering local growers with the right tools and knowledge.

The organic fertilizers were officially turned over to the SHALCOGA Farmers’ Association, who oversaw transparent distribution among its members. Careful logging ensured that every

farmer received a fair share of the resources. Local growers expressed their gratitude, noting how these inputs will not only improve the quality of their crops but also open the door to stronger yields and potential surplus for expanded income opportunities. Harbest also conducted a preliminary farm assessment, examining soil conditions and the state of coffee trees in Sitio Hartwell. This allowed experts to identify key challenges and tailor their advice to local conditions. Following the farm check, FSCE and Harbest held a short program outlining the project’s goals and reinforcing the long-term benefits of adopting organic and sustainable practices.

For Henry & Sons and The Giving Café, this program represents more than a one-time donation. It is part of an enduring mission to uplift farming communities, preserve the future of Philippine coffee, and build a resilient, sustainable ecosystem where farmers thrive alongside the industry they sustain.

The unveiling of the plaque during the opening of the metallomics facility. It is housed on the first floor of the Edgardo Gomez Hall, Marine Science Institute, UP Diliman.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5,

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

QCinema expands ‘Film City’ theme with 33 short films from 21 countries

THE QCShorts International section of the QCinema International Film Festival (QCIFF) 2025 builds on the festival’s “Film City” theme with a lineup of 33 films from 21 countries, offering a broad survey of experimental, animated, documentary, and fiction shorts.

Curated into six thematic programs, QCShorts International highlights the short film as a key platform for creative and social expression. Programmer and film critic Jason Tan Liwag said the expansion reinforces QCinema’s commitment to championing short cinema as a form of experimentation and storytelling with a global reach.

Within the section, six QCinema grantees will compete alongside 15 Southeast Asian shorts across four competition programs.

Program 1, This Vast Artifice, takes its title from Eve Driver’s poetry collection and features five Southeast Asian shorts examining urban illusions and modernday fragility.

The lineup includes As If To Nothing by Pek Jia Ho and Ang Jia Jung (Singapore), Honey, My Love, So Sweet by JT Trinidad (Philippines), Please P(r)ay Attention by Vasupol Suwanjuta (Thailand), and QCinema grantees Surface Tension by The Serrano Sisters and Yelo by Gab Rosique (Philippines).

Program 2, The Center Cannot Hold, draws from Elyn Saks’ memoir and gathers five shorts from Indonesia, Myanmar, and the Philippines exploring emotional and societal breakdowns. Titles include A Metamorphosis by Lin Htet Aung (Myanmar), QCinema grantees Hoy, Hoy, Ingat! by Norvin de los Santos and Si Kara: Ang Babaye Nga Nag Daba-Daba by Dale, Vox Humana by Don Josephus Eblahan (Philippines, USA, Singapore), and When the Blues Goes Marching In by Beny Kristia (Indonesia).

Program 3, This Is Where I Leave You, focuses on loss and letting go through stories of memory, home, and love. Films include Agapito by Arvin Belarmino and Kyla Danelle Romero (Philippines, France), Before the Sea Forgets by Lê Ngọc Duy (Singapore), Grandma Nai Who Played Favorites by Chheangkea (Cambodia, France, USA), Sammi, Who Can Detach His Body Parts by Rein Maychaelson (Indonesia), and Visiting Heaven Gate by Nghiêm Quỳnh Trang (Vietnam, Czech Republic).

Program 4, We Were Once Small Things, showcases six coming-of-age shorts from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The films include Baby Fat by Margarita Mina (USA, Philippines), In the Valley by Lim Han Loong (Malaysia), Little Rebels Cinema Club by Khozy Rizal (Indonesia), My Plastic Mother by Amar Haikal (Indonesia), and QCinema grantees Ours Was A Timeless Night Burning by Lauviah Caliboso and RUNO! by Lysa Catolico and Jazmine Gin Pateña (Philippines).

Two non-competition exhibition programs round out the lineup. Unthinkable Atrocities features works by filmmakers including Mattie Do, Jocelyn Charles, Mohammed Almughanni, Neo Sora, Maryam Tafakory, and Christopher Radcliff, delving into depictions of horror, censorship, and real-world violence. The sixth and final program, Unhealthy Fixations, brings back QCinema’s 2024 grantees, tackling themes of obsession, trauma, and social inequality through a mix of genres. The films are Refrain by Joseph Dominic Cruz Alaga by Nicole Rosacay RAMPAGE! (o ang parada) by Kukay Bautista Zinampan, Water Sports by Whammy Alcazaren, Kinakausap ni Celso ang Diyos (What Did the Sky Tell You, Celso?) by Gilb Baldoza, and Supermassive Heavenly Body by Sam Villa-Real

Tickets are priced at P250 per program. QCinema 2025 will run from Nov. 14 to 23 across Gateway, Trinoma, Eastwood, Fisher Mall, Cloverleaf, and Robinsons Galleria. More details are available at qcinema.ph

Dustin Yu gears up for bigger things

DUSTIN Yu is wrapping up the year on a strong note with new product endorsements, an upcoming fan meet, and a major film release. He is starring in Regal Entertainment’s latest horror project, Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins, official entry to this year’s Metro Ma nila Film Festival (MMFF).

At 24, the Pinoy Big Brother alum has come a long way since his reality show debut. While many consider his stint on the show the highlight

of his career so far, Dustin believes he’s only getting started, with even bigger things lined up for 2026.

“The ultimate feeling I have is gratitude right now,” Dustin told Manila Standard Entertainment in an interview held at Eraya in San Juan. City.

“Wala ka talagang ibang masasabi or mararamdaman kundi pasasalamat sa lahat ng blessings, at sa lahat ng taong sumuporta sa journey ko bilang artista at bilang aktor.”

He expressed that the year has brought him blessings and opportunities, and he remains thankful for everything coming his way.

“Sometimes you even ask yourself if you deserve it,” he shared. “But then you realize that we all have our own blessings meant for us. So I just accept everything with a full heart and so much gratitude.”

Despite his growing list of projects, Dustin remains focused on staying grounded while making a conscious effort to improve his craft.

“With just a few months before 2026, I’m ready for more challenges,” he said. “As much as I’d like to say I’ll take a vacation, I think I’ll be working even more. Opportunities don’t stop, and I don’t want to get too comfortable.”

Regal Entertainment producer

Filmmaker becomes first Pinoy to launch global streaming platform in Singapore

AWARD-WINNING filmmaker Nijel de Mesa has become the first Filipino to launch a global streaming platform, unveiling NDM Plus during the second day of the NDM Expo held on Oct. 25 at the Singapore Expo. De Mesa, known for his 25-year career under the NDM brand, had puzzled industry observers in recent years as he continued producing films without public release dates. The mystery ended with the reveal of NDM Plus, a Singapore-based platform branded as the “Home of Unique Storytelling.”

The platform features an initial library of original titles produced by NDMstudios, several of which have already gained international recognition. Among them are Malditas in Maldives and Coronaphobia, which are now streaming on NDM Plus (www.ndmplus.com). De Mesa, who grew up in Manila, said his modest upbringing taught him resourcefulness.

“My dad would usually remind me that we were not rich like my friends from school. I had to make my own toys from trash,” he recalled. That same drive and strategic approach guided

Roselle Monteverde, who first noticed Dustin’s potential during his audition for Mano Po, praised the young actor for his work ethic and sincerity in his chosen craft.

“A lot of people get discovered, but what truly stands out is his passion and effort,” the film producer noted. “If someone is willing to work hard, stay positive, and focus, success will follow. That’s what I saw in Dustin.”

She mentioned that Dustin impressed her with his authenticity and preparation for the role, adding that his commitment was evident from the start.

“It’s always easier for actors to portray a role when they bring a part of themselves into it,” she explained. “He really studied and embodied his character.”

Dustin described working with the film executive as inspiring, calling her a “creative and visionary” producer.

“We always talk, and I’m really grateful,” he shared. “She’s my ‘Atchi.’ Working with her has always been fun. I can’t imagine how she manages everything—producing is stressful, and to handle it all takes great organization, time management, and vision. That’s why I really appreciate her and everything she’s done.”

the five-year development of NDM Plus. De Mesa worked on the project in secrecy, continuing to create films and join international festivals to build anticipation for the eventual launch. NDM Plus limits its subscribers to 100,000, offering “value-added services” known as NDM+ Experiences, which include exclusive live events and socials for VIP Prestige and Platinum members. The launch event drew artists from Singapore, executives from Sony

PBB Collab Celebrity edition alum Dustin Yu shares his gratitude for a year filled with blessings and opportunities

The ‘Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins’ star opens up about his MMFF role and future plans

Dustin Yu speaks to the press about his upcoming projects and his continued drive for growth as an actor

Nijel de Mesa presents NDM Plus during the NDM Expo in Singapore, marking a milestone for Filipino filmmakers

JT Trinidad’s ‘Honey, My Love, So Sweet’ joins the QCShorts International lineup representing the Philippines

Swifties trace ‘Ophelia’ inspiration in German museum

TAYLOR Swift fans sang and danced Sunday at a German museum exhibiting a painting believed to have inspired the singer’s new hit, “The Fate of Ophelia.”

Some fans arrived dressed as Ophelia—in white gowns adorned with flowers—while others wore sparkly outfits reminiscent of Swift’s concert attire as they gathered at the Wiesbaden Museum for a sold-out event celebrating the artwork.

The painting by Friedrich Heyser depicts Ophelia, the tragic Shakespearean heroine from Hamlet, floating in a river before her death. At the start of Swift’s music video for “The Fate of Ophelia,” from her latest album, The Life of a Showgirl, the pop star appears in a similar setting, lying in a white dress before the image comes to life.

Since the song’s release last month, the museum has seen a surge in visitors eager to view the painting.

“It’s incredible that this picture, which inspired Taylor Swift, is hanging here in Wiesbaden,” said Corinna Greiner, a 47-year-old office worker

who attended with her daughter.

“When I found out, I was simply overwhelmed.”

About 200 fans attended Sunday’s event, which opened with a lecture on Heyser’s work before Swift’s song filled the gallery. Many danced in front of the painting and posed for

selfies.

“I really love art, and I wanted to see the connection between the Ophelia painting and Taylor Swift in real life,” said Isabelle Bastian a 26-year-old student. “The atmosphere is great—it’s like a miniconcert.”

FRONT ROW

Heyser’s painting, completed around 1900, has been part of the Wiesbaden Museum’s collection since 2019. Museum director Andreas Henning said staff were caught off guard when Swift’s video debuted in October.

“We had no idea that Taylor Swift

Another chance to breathe

Greyson Chance brings ‘The Gold Tour’ to Manila after rediscovering his voice

By Jasper Valdez

AFTER facing a major health scare earlier this year, American singer-songwriter Greyson Chance admits that being back onstage—especially in Manila—feels nothing short of miraculous.

“It feels quite surreal if I am being honest,” Greyson told Manila Standard Entertainment ahead of his twonight concert at Teatrino Promenade, Greenhills, on Nov. 7 and 8.

“At the top of the year, I suffered from an emergency lung collapse, and after being in the hospital for a few weeks, I was very unsure as to what my 2025 was going to look like. To be in the middle of a tour right now, coming back to a place that feels almost like a second home to me, it’s all rather unbelievable.”

Greyson, who first rose to fame as a 12-year-old performing Lady Gaga’s “Paparazzi” on YouTube, has been making music for more than half his life. Sixteen years later, he’s still evolving—this time with The Gold Tour, which he describes as a celebration of every chapter of his career.

The Gold Tour is meant to be a celebration of every chapter of my career, taking a piece of every album and putting it on its own pedestal,” he said. “I wanted to get back

to my pop roots with this show and channel as much nostalgia as I could.”

Looking back, Greyson said he’s not the same person who first stepped into the spotlight as a child prodigy.

“I have changed completely since when I first started, but so would anyone who got signed to their first record label when they were 12,” he said.

“I’ve seen every side of this industry, both the good and the bad; my story, in its entirety, shapes who I am as an artist today.”

For the 28-year-old artist, nostalgia isn’t just about revisiting old songs. It’s about reflection—and survival. Having gone through what he called one of the most uncertain years of his life, Greyson hopes his concert becomes a moment of release for everyone who shows up.

“Everything in the world right now feels so difficult, so anxiety-inducing,” he said. “I want The Gold Tour to allow my Filipino fans to get outside of all the chaos in the world, even if it is just for a brief moment. I want them to remember their childhood, remember how they’ve grown and evolved, remember that nothing is permanent and everything must be cherished.”

As he’s grown, Greyson said his perspective on music has evolved, too. He no longer rushes the process, preferring to let ideas unfold naturally and be

Egypt officially opens grand museum near pyramids

EGYPT officially opened on Saturday the Grand Egyptian Museum, a long-awaited, billion-dollar showcase of pharaonic grandeur that Cairo hopes will revive tourism and boost its battered economy.

“Today, as we celebrate together the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, we are writing a new chapter in the history of the present and the future,” Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi told a gathering of dignitaries sitting in the museum’s square.

Spanning half a million square meters, the museum houses around 100,000 artifacts—half of them on display—dating back more than six millennia.

The audience at the opening watched a display of lights and music, with the

pyramids towering in front of them.

Dozens of performers dressed in elaborate Pharaonic costumes played traditional tunes as a laser show depicting pharaohs and fireworks lit up the night sky above the museum.

On giant screens above, scenes from celebrations in Tokyo and Rio de Janeiro played out against the backdrop of Egypt’s ancient monuments.

“It is a living testimony to the genius of the Egyptian human,” Sisi said, referring to the new institution. Roads around the museum were closed and security tightened Saturday ahead of its opening, with banners draped across buildings and streets.

“This is the dream that all of us imagined,” Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa

Madbouly told reporters, noting that most construction and finishing work took place over the past seven to eight years.

Set on a slope overlooking the Giza Plateau, the museum—built with Japanese support—has been more than two decades in the making, delayed by unrest, conflicts, and the pandemic.

Officials describe it as the world’s largest collection devoted to a single civilization. Inside are vast, light-filled halls featuring a colossal statue of Ramses II, immersive galleries, and a visible conservation lab where experts restore a 4,500-year-old solar boat.

The main draw is King Tutankhamun’s collection of more than 5,000 objects, many displayed together for the first time. AFP

would choose this painting,” Henning said. “The Swifties are coming from Germany, France, and England—it’s a big phenomenon.” The museum has not been contacted by Swift or her team about the connection, but fans hope she’ll stop by. AFP

more intentional with how each song comes together.

“Most things start on the piano as super basic sketches, but it’s different for every song,” he said. “My new single ‘‘Flip The Record’’ has been sitting on a hard drive, unfinished, for around two years; I could never figure out what it was supposed to be until something just clicked. I don’t have time now for any bad songs.”

Greyson hopes his Manila shows serve as both a reunion and a reminder.

“I hope they will remember everything we’ve gone through together these past 16 years,” he said. “I hope they will remember to be kind to themselves and to give themselves some grace. Life is so short. We truly are here just for a blink of an eye.” Before wrapping up, Greyson expressed his deep gratitude to his Filipino supporters.

“They mean so much to me,” he said.

“Without them, there is no way I could still be here doing what I’m doing. They are my strength, they are why I still exist as a musician.”

“When I think of some of the most exciting moments in my career, I honestly do think of the times I have traveled to Manila,” he added. “It’s my job to make sure the fans know that when I take the stage at Teatrino.”

Returning to the stage after a health

A light show featuring illuminated drones forms the image of King Tutankhamun’s mask during the opening of Egypt’s Grand Egyptian Museum

A fan of US singer-songwriter Taylor Swift outside a German museum exhibiting the painting believed to have inspired her hit song

A scene from the Taylor Swift’s latest music video mirrors the painting’s depiction of Ophelia

The pop artist reconnects with fans through a show that celebrates every chapter of his career

Rediscovering his voice, Greyson Chance reflects on growth ahead of his Manila shows

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Filipino busking culture takes over Hong Kong

NOW & NEXT

Filipino buskers bring their street performances to Hong Kong in a cultural exchange celebrating music and community

By

TApart from their street performances, the group also played for the Filipino community in Hong Kong and performed songs that reminded overseas Filipino workers of home.

-

The artists said that what began as a casual stop became one of the most

Nonoy Marcelo: Chronicler in ink and motion

IN THE history of Philippine art and media, few figures bridged the gap between mass culture and critical commentary as effectively as Nonoy Marcelo. For more than four decades, Marcelo’s cartoons and comic strips shaped the Filipino imagination, capturing both the absurdities and the resilience of everyday life.

Marcelo began drawing in the 1960s, quickly distinguishing himself from his peers. Where many cartoonists relied on slapstick or gag humor, Marcelo sharpened his craft into a form of social critique. His lines were spare, his figures expressive, and his wit piercing. His works did not merely elicit laughter; they provoked reflection.

Two of his creations remain iconic in Philippine culture. The first, Tisoy, was a comic strip that chronicled Manila’s youth culture of the 1960s and 1970s. With its sharp humor and insider sensibility, Tisoy documented the changing slang, fashion, and attitudes of urban Filipino youth. It gave a voice to a generation negotiating modernity, mixing irreverence with self-awareness.

The second, Ikabod Bubwit, is perhaps Marcelo’s most enduring legacy. Set in the allegorical Dagalandia, a nation of mice standing in for Filipinos, Ikabod Bubwit became a satirical chronicle of Philippine politics and society.

During the years of Martial Law, Marcelo managed to critique authoritarianism, corruption, and inequality through allegory. The mouse, humble and small, became a national symbol of resilience. Readers found in Ikabod not only humor but also courage, a way to name the pressures and absurdities of living under a dictatorship without directly courting censorship.

Beyond his strips, Marcelo’s work touched another important frontier:

emotional moments of the trip.

“Napunit puso ko sa lahat ng nakita kong Pilipino na nakatambay sa underpass,” said Riggs, co-founder of TBCPH. “May mga dekada nang ‘di makauwi sa pamilya. May nakausap ako—first time niya uuwi sa March 2026, graduation ng anak niya.”

He said the unplanned performance became personal for the group as the audience connected with their music.

“Ang ending, lahat ng kinanta ko para sa mga OFW. Kaya nagkaroon ng gano’n karaming crowd, at nagkaroon din ng purpose na magkaroon ng TBCHK.”

The idea of performing abroad came from a long-time collaboration with Fisheads, a Hong Kong duo who previously went to Manila to busk with TBCPH.

“Fisheads registered as a TBCPH busker and played in Manila last year,” Riggs said. “We already talked about the possibility of us busking in Hong Kong with them, and now it finally happened.”

He described the trip as a cultural exchange and a milestone for Filipino buskers.

“It’s fun, and we’re proud, but more than that, we learned something from each other,” he said. “In Manila, marami sa amin secured ang permits. But in Hong Kong, guerilla-style pa rin. Iba, pero parehong may puso.

Riggs said the collaboration also inspired a new idea. “Alexis of Fisheads reached out to me about forming a busking community in Hong Kong, inspired by what they experienced in the Philippines. I guess that’s the start of what we can potentially call TBCHK—The Busking Community Hong Kong.”

With Hong Kong as its first international stop, The Busking Community PH continued its goal to bring music mula sa kalsada, para sa kalsada from the streets, for the streets— wherever they may be.

Philippine animation. He was among the rare Filipino cartoonists whose characters were adapted into animated form, including an Ikabod Bubwit television special.

At a time when animation in the Philippines was underdeveloped and largely an outsourced industry for foreign studios, Marcelo’s leap into the medium was groundbreaking. His attempt showed that local narratives, styles, and humor could be animated, even if the infrastructure for sustaining such work was thin. Unfortunately, much of this pioneering work has not been properly preserved, pointing to a serious dearth of materials and scholarship on Philippine animation history.

Marcelo’s contribution, then, was twofold. On one hand, he was a chronicler of his times, using the accessible medium of comics to reach millions of Filipinos daily. On the other hand, he planted seeds for the possibility of a uniquely Filipino animation industry—one rooted not in foreign contracts but in local stories and humor.

What is striking about Marcelo’s body of work is its democratic reach. His strips were not confined to galleries or academic journals. They appeared in newspapers, jeepneys, and barbershops, circulating among ordinary people. His satire entered the nation’s bloodstream, shaping the way Filipinos saw themselves and their leaders.

Today, as the Philippines grapples with archiving and understanding its cultural heritage in animation and comics, Marcelo’s legacy looms large. He proved that cartoons are not ephemera but enduring cultural texts. His work deserves not only preservation but also deeper study, especially as we trace the overlooked history of animation in the Philippines.

Nonoy Marcelo was more than a cartoonist. He was a visual historian, a satirist, and a pioneer whose lines in ink—and briefly in motion—captured the pulse of a nation.

You may reach Chong Ardivilla at kartunistatonto@gmail.com or chonggo.bsky.social \

FILIPINO artist Jonathan Olazo pays tribute to French impressionist Claude Monet in his latest exhibition, Light Receptacle Café, which opened on Oct. 18 at the Alliance Française de Manille.

The show reimagines Monet’s preoccupation with light and time through a contemporary Filipino perspective, featuring Olazo’s layered acrylic and mixed-media works. Curated by his wife, painter-conservator Lyn Yusi-Olazo, the exhibit invites viewers to see light not only as a subject but also as a metaphor.

According to the curator, Olazo draws inspiration from everyday experiences, translating details from his surroundings into abstract compositions. He approaches painting much like a DJ, sampling and collaging visual cues onto his canvases.

The exhibition drew praise from members of the art community. Rosita Lara “Otty” Lumagui, managing director of Worldwide Resource Solutions Philippines Inc. and CEO of Bocca, described the works as balancing “a vigorous masculinity and a delicate femininity,” depending on the viewer’s perspective.

Alliance Française de Manille executive director Olivier Dintinger said the paintings reminded him of Monet’s works at the Musée Marmottan in Paris.

National Commission for Culture and the Arts executive director Dr. Eric Zerrudo linked the exhibit to the historical influence of Impressionism on Filipino artists in Paris in the 19th century, commending Olazo for capturing “light and temporality.”

Architect and art advocate Michael “Mico” Liwanag said he has seen Olazo “grow as an artist, always pushing boundaries,” calling his dedication inspiring.

Olazo’s influences extend beyond painting to French intellectual life, drawing from writers such as Roland Barthes and Charles Baudelaire. He connects Baudelaire’s idea of the flâneur—an observer who finds beauty in the ordinary—to his own photographic studies of Metro Manila, which he likens to Monet’s calm yet majestic landscapes. Light Receptacle Café runs until Nov. 15 at the Alliance Française de Manille, 209 Nicanor Garcia Street, Bel-Air II, Makati City.

Nickie Wang

HE Filipino street music scene reached international grounds when The Busking Community PH (TBCPH) held its first overseas showcase in Hong Kong, titled Mula sa Kalsada, Para sa Kalsada ng Hong Kong.

The lineup featured Fisheads, Ciara Silva, Ren Bugash, and Martin Riggs, who performed in Hong Kong’s public spaces. Their sets created a cultural exchange that empha

sized music as a creative and acces

sible form of expression.

Artist Jonathan Olazo stands beside one of his abstract works featured in Light Receptacle Café at the Alliance Française de Manille

A scene from Nonoy Marcelo’s ‘Tadhana’

A tikbalang rocks out in Nonoy Marcelo’s animated interpretation of Philippine history

‘Tadhana’ visualizes the encounter between native and foreign cultures