ICC ISSUES ARREST WARRANT VS. DELA ROSA—REMULLA
By Pot Chavez, Ram Superable, Charles Dantes, Joel Zurbano and Rex Espiritu
THE
said in an
Forced evacuations begin as ‘Uwan’ gains strength
PAGASA: River basins to overflow; PHIVOLCS: Mayon lahar likely
By Charles Dantes, Rex Espiritu, Maricel Cruz
RESCUE work was suspended and preemptive evacuations began yesterday as Typhoon “Uwan” bore down on the country, days after another typhoon (“Tino”) killed at least 204 people.
“Uwan,” expected to be a super typhoon before making landfall, bears a huge footprint, with a radius that could cover “almost the entire country,” a government meteorologist said.
“Apart from the strong winds, we can also expect heavy rains ... 200 millimeters (eight inches) or higher rainfall, which can cause widespread flooding, not just in low-lying areas,” PAGASA meteorologist Benison Estareja told a press briefing Saturday.
“It’s also possible that our major river basins will overflow.”
There is also a risk of lahar or volcanic mudflow from Mayon Volcano, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured the public all concerned government agencies are on full alert as “Uwan” intensifies.
Mr. Marcos urged the public to remain calm but stay vigilant, emphasizing the importance of preparedness to minimize the potential adverse effects of the typhoon.
“All government agencies are on full alert and have taken immediate action to ensure
By Maricel V. Cruz
as the country braces for the looming super typhoon “Uwan.”
LEYTE 1st District Rep. Martin
Romualdez of Leyte joined the nation yesterday in marking the 12th anniversary of Super Typhoon “Yolanda” (Haiyan) that left over 6,000 dead, noting that its lessons “remain deeply etched in our hearts”
“We honor the memory of those we lost by ensuring that their sac rifice continues to inspire prepar edness, compassion, and solidar ity among our people,” Romualdez said.
“The lesson we learned from
By Othel V. Campos
THE wastewater spill from the Universal Robina Corporation (URC) distillery in Bais, Negros Oriental has led to fish kill incidents and aquaculture losses in nearby bodies of water, the Department of Agriculture reported Saturday.
In its first bulletin, the DA said its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Section is closely coordinating with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to monitor and assess the extent of the damage in affected fishing areas in Bais and Manjuyod.
The contamination resulted from the collapse of the dam of Universal Robina Corp.’s (URC) wastewater containment structure, releasing molasses waste into the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape.
The wastewater turned the water dark brown and likely blocked the gills of fish, leading to widespread mortality, the DA said.
Initial reports from the Manjuyod local government estimated that around 14 tons of cultured P. vannamei (whiteleg shrimp) were affected, though the figure is still subject to validation.
BFAR has already issued a public advisory warning against fishing, collecting, or consuming aquatic organisms from the affected areas due to possible contamination.
Local leaders led by Mayor Alfred Romualdez (left) and Yolanda survivors attend mass at the Holy Cross Memorial Garden in Tacloban City on November 8,
NEWS
Over 12,000 classrooms at risk from Typhoon ‘Uwan’, says DepEd
Over 12,000 schools in 120 school divisions may be at risk of flooding and rain-induced landslides as Typhoon Uwan continues to intensify while moving west-northwest over the sea east of Eastern Visayas, the Department of Education (DepEd) warned on Saturday.
In its Preparedness for Response report, the agency said 11,968 schools in 120 divisions are vulnerable to flooding, while 12,747 schools in 110 divisions face possible raininduced landslides amid forecasts of
heavy rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters from November 8 to 10.
“The Department of Education – Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DepEd-DRRMS) continues to monitor [Typhoon
Uwan] as it further intensifies while moving west northwestward over the sea east of Eastern Visayas. This typhoon may affect more than 12,000 schools in 120 school divisions,” it said.
The DepEd-DRRMS urged affected School Division Offices and schools to coordinate with local government units and disaster risk reduction councils to ensure emergency preparedness. It also advised schools to activate School Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (SDRRM) teams, safeguard learning materials and equipment, preposition emergency supplies, and report incidents via the IMRS system.
“The Department of Education is com-
mitted to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all learners and staff. Be aware. Be prepared. Be safe,” the agency said. Meanwhile, the DepEd reported that as of Friday, 1,920,402 learners and 79,306 personnel in 3,478 public schools across five regions had been affected by Typhoon Tino and the shear line. It added that 2,564 classrooms in 424 schools across seven regions are currently being used as evacuation centers. Based on a rapid damage assessment, 2,156 classrooms were found to have sustained minor damage, 806 major damage, and 391 were totally destroyed, according to the DRRMS Incident Management Report System.
IN BRIEF
PAL, LTG extend aid to Cebu communities hit by ‘Tino’
THE Lucio Tan Group (LTG) is providing relief assistance to communities in Cebu and nearby provinces affected by Typhoon Tino.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) is transporting relief goods to the Visayas in coordination with government agencies, humanitarian groups, and private donors.
Shipments will be processed based on available cargo space and handled on a first-come, first-served basis, the airline said. At the same time, Asia
Brewery Inc. (ABI) has mobilized the donation of 3,000 six-liter containers of bottled water to displaced residents. Distribution is being coordinated with local government units and partner organizations.
Both PAL and ABI, under the LTG, said they stand in solidarity with the people of Cebu and nearby provinces. The conglomerate vowed to continue providing assistance in the coming days as affected areas work toward recovery. Joel E. Zurbano
‘Uwan’ forces cancellation of 50 domestic flights
THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) announced that 50 domestic flights scheduled for Sunday and Monday have been canceled due to severe tropical storm Uwan.
The cancellations affect 34 flights from Cebu Pacific and CebGo, and 16 from Philippine Airlines, impacting thousands of travelers in several provinces, including Cebu, Naga, Tuguegarao, and Laoag.
PAL said the move was made “for the safety of passengers” as Uwan, internationally known
as Fung-Wong, is expected to bring heavy rains and strong winds over Luzon and the Visayas. Cebu Pacific also warned of possible further disruptions in the coming days.
CAAP spokesperson Eric Apolonio said the agency continues to monitor the storm’s progress and will release updates as needed.
Uwan is forecast to intensify and may become a super typhoon before its projected landfall in Central or Northern Luzon between Aurora and Isabela. Joel E. Zurbano
CFO: Include overseas Pinoy youth in dev’t plan
THE Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) has called for the formal inclusion of overseas Filipino youth and returnees in the national development agenda to ensure their welfare and participation in nation-building.
The proposal was raised during the Philippine Youth Development Plan (PYDP) 2026 Planning Workshop attended by government agencies formulating next year’s strategies.
CFO said the current PYDP must broaden its scope to include Filipino youth living abroad, those returning home, and those based locally to make
them “protected, empowered, and engaged partners in development.”
The commission cited key programs such as Youth Leaders in the Diaspora (YouLeaD), the Peer Counseling Program, and the 1343 Actionline Against Human Trafficking as part of its continuing youth engagement efforts.
It also stressed the need to strengthen inter-agency coordination and partnerships to sustain anti-trafficking and empowerment initiatives under the PYDP’s economic empowerment and global mobility cluster.
DND fires back at China over ‘provocation’ claim
By Rex Espiritu
THE Department of National Defense (DND) on Saturday rebuked China’s accusation that the Philippines is engaging in “provocation” through its joint military exercises with allied nations, calling Beijing’s claim a “classic case of projection.”
In a statement, DND spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arsenio R. Andolong said the remarks made by China’s Ministry of National Defense “do not reflect the reality” in the West Philippine Sea and the broader South China Sea.
“The truth of the matter is that China is the real threat to regional stability. Their lies range from mislabeling legitimate actions to inventing ‘history,’”
House panel
By Maricel V. Cruz
Andolong said.
He added that the Philippines “will not tolerate blackmailing by those who provoke first and then play the victim.”
“This is precisely what the Philippines is doing in reaction to China’s actions,” Andolong said.
The DND reiterated that the Philippines remains “undeterred in asserting its national interests” in the West Philippine Sea.
The statement came after Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Senior Colonel Jiang Bin urged the Philippines to “cease infringement, provocation, and propaganda,” blaming Manila for “drawing in outside forces” and “stirring up tensions” in the South China Sea.
“We urge the Philippine side to stop
undermining joint efforts by regional countries in pursuing peace and development, and cease its infringement, provocation, and propaganda. Otherwise, the higher it jumps, the harder it will fall,” Jiang said.
The latest exchange of statements underscores the growing tension between Manila and Beijing following increased military cooperation between the Philippines and its defense partners, including the United States, Japan, and Australia.
The Philippines has repeatedly maintained that its activities, such as joint patrols and military exercises, are lawful and aimed at strengthening defense readiness and ensuring peace and stability in the region.
to invite Cimatu on Dolomite probe
HOUSE Committee on Public Accounts
chairperson and Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon on Saturday disclosed that former Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu will be invited to his panel’s investigation into the Manila Bay Dolomite Beach project.
“He will be asked to explain how the project originated and why he allowed the project to proceed despite it not be -
ing part of the Manila Bay Sustainable Development Master Plan and despite questions on its consistency with the Supreme Court’s Continuing Mandamus on the rehabilitation of Manila Bay,” Ridon said in a statement.
According to Ridon, Cimatu, as DENR secretary, “had ultimate responsibility for the Manila Bay rehabilitation, including the origination and implementation of the Manila Bay Dolomite Beach project.”
Cimatu served as DENR secretary during the Duterte administration.
Ridon said his panel has scheduled the hearing on November 19. Officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Manila City government, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will also be invited.
PREPARING FOR UWAN.
Former Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, in coordination with Tingog Partylist, has ordered the delivery of relief goods across Leyte and other parts of Eastern Visayas as Typhoon Uwan approaches.
IN BRIEF
Tipo-Tipo clans sign peace pact in Basilan
RIVAL clans involved in the October 28 clashes in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, have signed a peace agreement pledging to end all acts of violence, retaliation, and armed conflict in the area.
The ceremony was held at the Basilan Provincial Capitol in Isabela City, witnessed by government, military, police, and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) officials.
The pact was signed by TipoTipo Mayor Ingatun Istarul and Barangay Tipo-Tipo Proper chair Jamil Lintaran, representing one side, and Ustadz Tarahin Isnain and Ustadz Ansud Tarahin of Barangay Baguindan, representing the other.
Both parties vowed to cooperate fully with authorities in maintaining peace and order. Rex Espiritu
DOT reminds tourism firms to keep prices fair
THE Department of Tourism (DOT) has reminded tourism enterprises, especially accredited establishments, to maintain fair and compassionate business practices during calamities.
The advisory follows reports of alleged overpricing and unfair treatment of travelers and workers affected by recent disasters.
The DOT urged establishments not to impose unreasonable price hikes on accommodation, food, or other services. It also encouraged the adoption of flexible booking and cancellation policies for guests whose travel plans were disrupted.
The agency stressed that tourism is a platform for service and compassion, saying businesses must ensure travelers, evacuees, and responders find comfort and dignity during emergencies. Overpricing or refusal of service contradicts the Filipino brand of hospitality. Othel V. Campos
Philippine Marines mark 75th year with charity drive
THE Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) marked its 75th anniversary on Friday with a charity drive supporting victims of Typhoon Tino and other Marine welfare programs.
The event turned the celebration into an act of service and solidarity.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. praised the Marines’ “valor, devotion, and unyielding spirit of service,” noting their evolution from a small volunteer force to a modern defense unit protecting the archipelago.
The anniversary featured a “Commemorative Charity Event” and “Pay per Plate” gathering, with proceeds directed to humanitarian causes. A “Commemorative Package for a Cause” was also launched, including a Treasury Book and a special 75th Anniversary Coin. Rex Espiritu
Marcos extends full LGU devolution until 2028
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved a three-year extension of the transition period for the full devolution of national government functions to local government units (LGUs), giving local leaders until 2028 to fully assume responsibilities under the landmark Mandanas-Garcia ruling.
Under Executive Order No. 103, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin “by authority of the President,” Malacañang said the extension aims to give LGUs more time to strengthen their financial, technical, and administrative capacities to deliver devolved services effectively.
The order amends Executive Order No. 138 issued in 2021, which initially set 2024 as the deadline for full devolution.
The Supreme Court’s 2018 Mandanas-Garcia ruling significantly
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued Executive Order No. 104, temporarily reducing import duties on tin-mill blackplate (TMBP), a key material used in making food cans, to stabilize supply and lower production costs in the local food industry.
The order, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin by authority of the President, was endorsed by the Economic and Development Council.
It aims to revitalize the domestic manufacturing of tin plate and tinfree steel, which are vital for food packaging, amid the lack of local TMBP production.
“There is no local production of TMBP, and there is also no local product that can substitute for said
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Trade and In-
dustry (DTI) has seized more than P200,000 worth of uncertified and substandard Christmas lights in Divisoria as part of its intensified nationwide enforcement campaign.
The items, confiscated on November 5 from five of the 35 establishments inspected, were found without the mandatory Philippine Standard (PS) and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) markings, as well as proper labeling.
The absence of PS and ICC marks violates Department Administrative Order No. 02, Series of 2007, which re -
expanded the share of LGUs in national taxes, paving the way for greater local autonomy under Republic Act No. 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991.
Malacañang said EO 103 introduces “additional policies to ensure a smoother, phased transfer of responsibilities” and prioritizes support for poorer, less developed, and geographically isolated LGUs.
“The functions, services, and facilities to be devolved from the national government may not be
commodity,” the EO stated.
The reduced tariff rates take effect immediately and will remain in force for three years, subject to review after one year.
The government said the move will help strengthen local tin plate and tin-free steel industries by making raw materials more affordable and accessible to manufacturers.
According to the Economic and Development Council, the temporary tariff reduction is expected to promote consumer welfare by stabilizing supply chains, reducing production costs, generating jobs, and encouraging investments in related industries.
The council formally endorsed the reduction of the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff rate on TMBP on August 20, 2025.
quires all manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and importers of Christmas lights to secure certification from the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) before selling their products.
The DTI’s Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB), which led the crackdown, reminded the public to buy only certified products to avoid fire and electrical hazards.
“As we prepare for the holidays, let’s remain vigilant and ensure we do not compromise the safety of our homes and families by purchasing cheap or substandard Christmas lights. Let us be critical and avoid being scammed by cheap deals,” the FTEB said.
fully absorbed or implemented uniformly across all LGUs within the transition period mandated under EO 138,” the order stated, citing varying local capacities.
Under the new timeline, provinces and municipalities must complete their shift to full devolution by fiscal year 2028, while cities must do so by 2027.
All LGUs are required to follow a phased implementation as they improve their fiscal and institutional readiness.
The order also directs national government agencies to continue providing technical and capacitybuilding support while gradually shifting toward strategic roles, such as setting national standards, monitoring performance, and addressing cross-regional development issues.
Malacañang underscored that LGUs will play the lead role in service delivery while ensuring alignment
Malacañang said the issuance of EO 104 aligns with Section 13, Article XI of the Constitution, which mandates the State to adopt a trade policy that promotes the general welfare. It also cited the authority granted to the President under Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, to modify import duty rates in the interest of public welfare and national security.
All administrative issuances inconsistent with EO 104 are repealed or modified accordingly, the order stated.
The measure forms part of the Marcos administration’s broader strategy to curb rising food prices and ensure the stability of essential goods as the country continues to recover from global supply chain disruptions and inflationary pressures.
The bureau also warned sellers to strictly observe safety standards, reminding merchants to comply with the Philippine National Standards and all relevant requirements to protect consumer welfare and market integrity.
Since early October, DTI’s E-Kalasag Project has inspected physical stores and online platforms nationwide, confirming 72 compliant establishments and recommending 218 violative online listings for takedown.
The DTI urged both consumers and businesses to stay vigilant and compliant this Christmas season to ensure a safe and bright celebration for all.
with national priorities, including the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028, AmBisyon Natin 2040, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the administration’s 8-Point Socioeconomic Agenda, and the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework 2022–2028.
Priority assistance will go to fourth- and fifth-class municipalities and provinces, as well as those in poor or geographically isolated areas with high poverty incidence.
The Palace said the extension reflects the administration’s pragmatic approach to decentralization, ensuring readiness before responsibility.
Once fully implemented, the Marcos administration said the reform will allow the national government to focus on long-term national development while empowering local governments to take charge of basic services and grassroots progress.
GODDESS OF MERCY. Devotees visit Seng Guan Buddhist Temple in Tondo, Manila to offer food and prayers to Guan Yin Ma, the Goddess of Mercy, on her Renunciation Day. Richmond Chi.
2025 in Portland, Oregon. AFP
James Watson, Nobel prize-winning DNA pioneer, dead at 97
NEW YORK —James Watson—the
Nobel laureate co-credited with the discovery of DNA’s double-helix structure, but whose reputation was tainted by his repeated racist remarks —has died aged 97.
The eminent American biologist died Thursday in hospice care on Long Island in New York, said the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, where he was based for much of his career.
Watson went down as among the 20th century’s most storied scientists for his 1953 discovery of the double helix, a breakthrough made with research partner Francis Crick.
Along with Crick and Maurice Wilkins, Watson shared the 1962 Nobel Prize for their momentous work that gave rise to modern biology and opened the door to insights including on genetic code and protein synthesis.
That ushered in a new era of modern life, allowing for revolutionary technologies in medicine, forensics and genetics, like criminal DNA testing or genetically manipulated plants.
Watson was just 25 when he joined in on one of science’s greatest discoveries. He later went on to do groundbreaking work in cancer research and mapping the human genome.
His 1968 memoir “The Double Helix” was a best-seller praised for its breezy writing about fierce competition in the name of scientific advancement. But on a personal level Watson was known as at best cantankerous and frank, at worst mean and bigoted.
He routinely disparaged female scientists, including Rosalind Franklin, whose work on X-ray diffraction images of DNA offered the clue that made Watson and Crick’s modeling possible. AFP
Forced...
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the safety of our fellow citizens,” the President said.
“Follow the advisories of your LGU and evacuate immediately if you live in a dangerous area. Prepare your essential needs and stay tuned to official announcements,” he added, noting that complacency has no room as
Center on Transnational Crime, has yet to receive any red notice from Interpol.
“At present, there is no actionable document for the (DILG) to respond to,” the department said.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, for his part, said the ICC may
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only the responsibility of the government but of every Filipino,” added the former Speaker, whose district was among the worst hit when Yolanda struck on Nov. 8, 2013.
The Leyte lawmaker said the devastation of Yolanda forever changed the nation’s approach to disaster management and community resilience.
“The Yolanda generation proved that
US judge rules Trump’s Nat’l Guard deployment to Portland ‘unlawful’
WASHINGTON—A US federal judge ruled Friday that Donald Trump’s National Guard deployment to Portland, Oregon is “unlawful” and ordered it permanently blocked, a legal setback for the president’s use of troops in the country’s cities.
The Republican president has sent the National Guard to three Democratic-led cities this year – Los Angeles, the capital Washington and Memphis –but his efforts to deploy soldiers in Portland and Chicago have been tied up in the courts.
Trump has repeatedly called the Oregon city “war-ravaged” and riddled with violent crime to justify sending forces there.
But District Judge Karin Immergut – a Trump nominee – rejected the administration’s claim that protests against an ongoing immigration crackdown amounted to a rebellion justifying the deployment of National Guard troops to Oregon.
“The President’s unlawful federalization of the National Guard violates the Tenth Amendment, which ‘reserves to the States’ any powers not expressly delegated to the federal government in the Constitution,” Immergut wrote.
“With respect to the deployment of any state’s National Guard to Oregon,” she concluded, “THIS PERMANENT INJUNCTION ORDER IS IN FULL FORCE AND EFFECT.”
The ruling supersedes Immergut’s interim order that had temporarily blocked the deployment to Portland.
Authorities in California, which had strenuously opposed federalization of its National Guard forces to send to Oregon, hailed the decision as “a win for the
“every second counts.”
“Uwan” continued to rapidly intensify as it moved closer toward the Philippine Sea east of Bicol Region, PAGASA said in its 5 p.m. bulletin yesterday.
The potential super typhoon was moving west-northwestward at 30 kilometers per hour with maximum sustained winds of 150 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 185 kph. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 3
have already issued an arrest warrant but it has yet to be transmitted through Interpol or the International Criminal Police Organization. Bersamin said the government will not automatically surrender Dela Rosa to the ICC.
is hoisted over Catanduanes; the eastern portion of Camarines Sur (Siruma, Tinambac, Goa, Lagonoy, Caramoan, Tigaon, Garchitorena, Sagñay, San Jose and Presentacion); the eastern portion of Albay (Tiwi, Santo Domingo, Malinao, Rapu-Rapu, City of Tabaco, Bacacay and Malilipot), the northeastern portion of Sorsogon (Prieto Diaz); and the northeastern portion of Northern Samar (Palapag, Mapanas and Laoang).
In a separate interview, ICC-accredited assistant to counsel Kristina Conti said they cannot confirm any information that the ICC has not publicly shared.
even in the face of unimaginable loss, the Filipino spirit cannot be broken. We learned to stand together, to care for one another, and to face every storm with courage and faith,” Romualdez said.
“Early warnings must be heeded, evacuation plans must be ready and supply lines must be steady. Community networks matter, from barangay leaders to youth groups to civil society. Preparedness is not a one-time effort, it is an everyday discipline that protects lives,” he added.
“The last public information shared by the court is that the Duterte defense has transmitted its second tranche of evidence, meaning, all parties are still preparing for the resumption of the confirmation of charges hearing. We’ll know more as soon as the pending issue of Duterte’s fitness is decided, possibly within this month,” Conti said.
It also cautioned residents against collecting dead fish, citing potential health risks from harmful pathogens, chemicals, and pollutants. Earlier, a field survey and dronebased mapping conducted by the Silliman University (SU) revealed that up to 6,000 hectares of marine and coastal waters have been contaminated due to the wastewater spill.
rule of law, for the constitutional values that govern our democracy, and for the American people.”
California Attorney General Rob Bonta added in a statement: “Once again, a court has firmly rejected the President’s militarized vision for America’s future.”
Protests sparked by a spike in immigration raids have caused unrest in parts of the country, as Trump has pushed for a massive wave of deportations – a hallmark of his 2024 presidential campaign.
But Immergut wrote there was no evidence of any large-scale violence, major damage to property, or actions by protesters that impeded Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from performing their duties, and that conditions on the ground did not justify the use of emergency powers.
The Trump administration could appeal Friday’s ruling, with the possibility that the case ultimately goes before the US Supreme Court. AFP
France moves to suspend Shein website
PARIS—Shein opened its first physical store worldwide in Paris under the eye of riot police, as the French government said it was suspending the Asian e-commerce giant’s online platform following outrage over its sale of childlike sex dolls.
Hundreds of shoppers streamed into Shein’s permanent physical store on the sixth floor of the BHV department store, a landmark that has stood across from Paris City Hall since 1856.
Police patrolled the street and put up barriers, keeping nearby protesters from approaching the waiting shoppers. Soon after the launch of the shop, the French government said it was suspending the Shein digital platform until the company complied with French legislation.
The eastern portion of mainland Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Aurora, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Metro Manila, Rizal, Laguna, Quezon, Marinduque, Camarines Norte, the rest of Camarines Sur, the rest of Albay, the rest of Sorsogon, Burias Island and Ticao Island are now under Signal No. 2. In the Visayas, Signal No. 2 was hoisted over the rest of Northern Samar; the northern and central por-
She, however, said a warrant against Dela Rosa as Duterte’s alleged co-perpetrator of crimes against humanity is certain considering “what victims know and what the prosecution has presented.” Conti said Dela Rosa’s name was among those mentioned in the draft charges against Duterte, who has been detained in The Hague since March.
Initial findings of the surveys and Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping carried out from Oct. 31 to Nov. 2 indicated localized fish kills covering up to seven kilometers from the source of the spill.
Meanwhile, URC has given assurance that the damaged dike in its containment lagoon at the Bais Distillery in Negros Oriental will withstand conditions that could threaten its structural stability once fully repaired.
“The recent typhoon did not affect the integrity of the main dike nor esca-
Despite an uproar in the couture capital over the Asian brand’s fast fashion business model and its environmental impact, the first shoppers queued for hours outside the luxury department store. Some of the crowd—ranging from older couples to mothers with young kids and trendy 20-somethings—said they arrived out of curiosity, while others pointed to the brand’s affordability.
“Times have changed, generations have changed,” Mohamed Joullanar, a 30-year-old who already buys from Shein online, told AFP.
“I’d never thought of going to BHV before,” the Moroccan masters student told AFP. “I always heard it was expensive, luxury products. But now, thanks to Shein, I’m here.” AFP
tions of Samar (Matuguinao, San Jose de Buan, Calbayog City, Tagapul-An, Santo Niño, Almagro, San Jorge, San Sebastian, Jiabong, Pagsanghan, City of Catbalogan, Gandara, Motiong, Santa Margarita, Tarangnan, Paranas and Hinabangan); and the northern and central portions of Eastern Samar (Maslog, San Policarpo, Dolores, Jipapad, Oras, Arteche, Can-Avid, City of Borongan, Taft, Sulat, San Julian and Maydolong). With AFP
While the names of the eight others were redacted in the publicly-available version of the ICC document, Conti said it shows at least two were police officers, one appointed official, one friend, and one “close enough” to the former President.
Dela Rosa’s counsel, Israelito Torreon, said they have no independent confirmation yet of the alleged warrant.
late the contamination of the seawater from the collapsed lagoon, though it did cause some delay in the completion of repair,” URC said in a statement. Originally set for completion on Nov. 4, the firm revealed the updated target date on the 14th of this month “due to extra work needed for reinforcement to guarantee complete sealing” of the damaged wall. URC guaranteed that the repaired structure “will withstand a repeat of unusually strong and relentless rains, tide action, and earthquake.”
PROTEST. File photo shows federal agents clashing with anti-I.C.E. protesters at the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement building on October 12,
Dr. James Watson poses with the original DNA model on May 20, 2005.
He collaborates with Filipino weavers, incorporating hand-loomed Yakan and Inabel textiles into modern silhouettes, giving indigenous craftsmanship a new context in contemporary living spaces.
For his latest lighting line, he worked with designer Mark Wilson to explore unconventional materials, including the discarded shells of Cebu’s baliad oysters. What was once seafood waste is now transformed into pearlescent pendants—proof that sustainability and luxury can coexist in one object.
Construction fit-out CEO ventures to bespoke furniture
AMAN of many hats, Michael Villardo, founder, CEO and creative director of Studio Moodism, once said there is a precise science to softness.
It’s an unexpected line, especially when you’re looking at his smooth, sculptural furniture that seems made for pure ease and lounging.
Behind those curves is the mind of an industrial engineer who spent nearly 30 years in the tough, detail-obsessed world of garment manufacturing.
His shift from denim to décor was a pivot built on years of discipline. Villardo grew up in his family’s garments business, teaching him how to build a business from the ground up, from sourcing materials to running operations to collaborating with international designers.
When he finally entered the furniture world, he already had the systems, the skill set and the mindset.
“My background in denimunderstanding contour, fit, and how fabric needs to embrace the body - never left me. I just apply that thinking differently now. I still shape form around comfort. I’ve simply switched materials,” he said.
Studio Moodism
The shift in Villardo’s creative path began when he opened his own interior fit-out construction firm. Working in spaces where every square meter mattered, especially in high-rise urban homes, he realized that off-the-shelf furniture often failed to meet the demands of modern living. The solution, he found, was not mass-produced
pieces but thoughtful, custombuilt designs that delivered both function and elevated style.
When the pandemic forced the world to slow down, Villardo used the pause to develop a concept that would bring something fresh to the Philippine market—furniture that could stand beside global names while staying true to its local roots.
He named the brand Studio Moodism, encapsulating a philosophy that design should be experienced, not just seen.
“It’s our belief that design is not only visual but emotional,” he said, noting that each piece is shaped with intent, meant to channel feeling and turn everyday objects into sensorial encounters.
Villardo’s aesthetic leans toward mid-century modern, a design movement he admires for its welcoming curves and timeless silhouettes. The revival of soft, sculptural forms, paired with textured fabrics like bouclé, aligns naturally with his vision of furniture that invites interaction.
What truly sets Studio Moodism apart is its distinctly Filipino soul. Villardo has a gift for fusing global design cues with local imagination, often pulling inspiration from places others might easily overlook.
Take the Pasteleria Collection, for instance: a line of playful yet refined pieces inspired by beloved Filipino treats. A soft, pillowy bench echoes
Elevate AIDA program brings tech upskilling to women in Batangas
ABOITIZ Construction and Aboitiz Foundation, in partnership with Connected Women and the Barangay Bagong Pook local government, launched the Elevate AIDA (Artificial Intelligence Data Annotation) Program through a memorandum of agreement signing on October 21, 2025, in Malvar, Batangas. The initiative supports the ongoing collaboration between Aboitiz Foundation and Connected Women to equip more Filipinas with digital skills, contributing to the larger goal of empowering 300,000 women nationwide.
Elevate AIDA is an online training program that provides women in underserved communities with competencies in digital literacy, financial empowerment, and AI data annotation - skills that open pathways to remote work and participation in the digital economy.
In Malvar, the program will train an initial batch of 50 women, with a model designed for replication in
other communities.
“This collaboration reflects our vision of progress that is shared and empowering. By working with Aboitiz Construction and Barangay Bagong Pook, we are helping women become catalysts for sustainable growth,” said Aboitiz Foundation COO Mardi Mapa-Suplido.
Aboitiz Construction senior assistant vice president for business transformation
Karmine Andrea Ching said the company believes technology can be a powerful equalizer by equipping women with globally relevant skills.
Graduation is scheduled for December, at which time participants are expected to have completed their training and become job-ready for AI data annotation work.
“This program empowers our women to gain new skills, build confidence, and take part in the digital economy. We look forward to more initiatives that uplift our community,” said Barangay chairperson Lilibeth Lat.
the airy crunch of a broas. A gently elongated sofa borrows the shape of the classic lengua de gato. Even a sleek chaise lounge pays homage to the humble bakya, the traditional wooden slipper reinvented in a modern, elegant form.
The entrepreneur
As the second of four siblings, Villardo carries what he jokingly calls the “classic middle-child resilience.”
“It made me more independent, you learn to look after yourself. I guess that instinct for selfsufficiency has fueled my ability to manage several ventures at once, from our garments business to an interior fit-out firm and now, furniture design and manufacturing,” he said.
But independence, for him, never means working alone. For when the pandemic struck, when projects stalled and uncertainty gripped the industry, Villardo refused to lay off any of his 35 workers. Instead, he found a way to keep everyone earning by buying and reselling fruits and vegetables in his own village to sustain payroll until operations could fully resume.
Studio Moodism has been a steady fixture at Manila FAME for three consecutive years. This has brought the brand to international furniture fairs, where he sees an opportunity not just to display his work, but to represent Filipino design on a global platform.
Building a legacy
Building a factory in Pampanga was one of the most sane decisions in his career as a furniture designer. The province is home to some of the finest craftsmen in the Philippines, and locating there gave him immediate access to a skilled talent pool.
The blend of premium craftsmanship and unmistakably Filipino identity is gaining international traction. Studio Moodism is now testing the global market, exhibiting under the Design Philippines banner at major overseas fairs.
One of the brand’s biggest wins to date was securing the lobby project for Velaris, a luxury development by Robinsons and Hong Kong Land. The team had originally planned to import Italian pieces, but Villardo’s pitch—and the credibility of his
NOVEMBER 9, 2025
OTHEL V. CAMPOS, Issue Editor email: extrastory2000@gmail.com
work—convinced them to go local instead. The project became a statement: Filipino design is not just an alternative, but a standard. “That was the moment we proved it, you don’t need to import excellence. Filipino design can meet luxury standards without losing its soul. We realized that overseas gigs are an important step in proving that Philippinemade furniture can compete head-to-head with established design capitals,” Villardo said. Looking ahead, Studio Moodism has rolled out its first outdoor collection, featuring weather-resistant aluminum frames and fast-dry performance fabrics, while Villardo is also gearing up to open a flagship showroom in Bonifacio Global City. Othel V. Campos
MANULIFE is rolling out a new health initiative in the Philippines that gives customers access to personalized gut microbiome screening, made possible through its partnership with AMILI, Southeast Asia’s first microbiome insights company.
The launch comes at a time when Filipinos are increasingly concerned about rising healthcare costs.
According to the 2025 Asia Care Survey, 82 percent of Filipinos cite healthcare expenses as their biggest worry, with many unsure about sustaining both their physical and financial well-being.
The AMILI screening aims to ease these concerns by offering sciencebased, preventive care that can support better long-term health outcomes and help reduce future medical costs.
“At Manulife Philippines, we are
focused on delivering innovative solutions that support the evolving health needs of Filipinos. This collaboration with AMILI allows us to provide a unique health experience
Manulife Philippines president and chief executive officer Rahul Hora
beyond traditional insurance, empowering customers to take a more proactive role in their wellbeing,” Manulife Philippines president and CEO Rahul Hora.
Through the program, Manulife customers will be able to undergo gut microbiome testing designed specifically for Asian populations, with personalized nutrition guidance and teleconsultation included to help interpret results. The service is positioned to help improve immunity, brain and heart health, as well as overall longevity.
“Our goal is to be a true partner in our customers’health journey—not just by helping them prepare financially, but by giving them access to tools and services that support prevention, care, and overall well-being,” said Manulife Philippines. health and product officer Grace Mallabo.
International courier expands holiday network for faster shipments
FEDERAL Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, is making holiday shipping easier and more accessible for Filipinos by expanding its FedEx Authorized ShipCenter network.
A new 2GO branch along Ninoy Aquino International Airport Road in Parañaque City is now operating as a FedEx Authorized ShipCenter, bringing the company’s nationwide access points to 290 2GO stores, 18 IPX outlets, and 23 Airspeed locations. Meanwhile, the FedEx Worldwide Service Center has temporarily moved its operations to Asinan 2A-3, SM Asinan Warehouse Complex in La Huerta, Parañaque City, ensuring uninterrupted service while its Pasay facility undergoes upgrades. With a wider network of partner locations and service channels, customers can conveniently access FedEx international delivery, hassle-free return options, and e-commerce support — enabling online sellers, MSMEs, and individual shippers to handle peak holiday demand with greater speed, reliability, and ease.
price
B2 | NOVEMBER 9, 2025
MILO RIVERA, Issue Editor
email: medarlo.e.rivera@gmail.com
TOYOTA TO END YEAR WITH DECEMBER bZ4X BEV
LAUNCH: With reservations now open, the bZ4X marks Toyota Motor Philippines’ (TMP) entry into the fully electric market. According to TMP President Masando Hashimoto, the introduction of the model is centered on giving customers diverse choices, in line with the brand’s direction towards carbon neutrality. The all-new bZ4X will be priced starting at P2,699,000 and will be available in four colorways: Emotional Red, Precious Metal, Platinum White Pearl Mica, and Dark Blue Mica. More information on the vehicle and reservation channels are found on the Toyota Motor Philippines website.
HONDA
Cars
Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) has officially confirmed plans to introduce the latest edition (6th generation) Honda Prelude sports coupe and models from the new Honda 0 Series electric vehicle (EV) lineup to the local market, though specific launch timelines remain fluid.
HCPI President Rie Miyake confirmed the moves during a press conference held with Philippine motoring media at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, with subsequent updates indicating a more concrete target for its local debut within the first half of 2026. The reintroduction follows the near sell-out of the limited-production Civic Type R units.
24 years after it was discontinued, the Prelude has made it back to Honda’s production lines, instantly regaining its reputation as one of the brand’s most iconic nameplates. The re-introduced, 6th
Honda confirms arrival of Prelude, upcoming 0 Series EVs to PH
IN BRIEF
Sale of fake motorcycle parts addressed with ‘No to Counterfeit’ campaign
THE Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA) held a dual-event initiative focusing both on industry growth forecasting and strengthening consumer protection against fake motorcycle components. In cooperation with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), a product and branding seminar was conducted to equip members of the National Coalition for the Intellectual Property Rights (NCIPR) Enforcers— including delegates from the NBI, PNP, BOC, and DTI—with the knowledge required to differentiate genuine motorcycle parts from counterfeitsThis action directly addresses the increasing circulation of fake parts, particularly on e-commerce platforms, which the association notes poses a serious threat to rider safety and product reliability. Coincidingly, the MDPPA also convened a press conference to release its updated sales projections. The association reported a total of 1,398,314 motorcycle units sold from January to September 2025, with forecasts predicting an additional 395,000 units sold by year-end, which would bring the 2025 total to 1,793,219 units – a 6.7 percent increase over the previous year. Looking ahead, MDPPA President Alex Cumpas shared an optimistic outlook
for 2026, projecting a 4 percent industry growth that would push annual sales beyond the 1.85-million mark. The continued growth is attributed to the motorcycle’s status as the preferred mobility option for Filipinos due to affordability, fuel-efficiency, and ease of use in traffic.
Bosch car service becomes first independent EV/Hybrid workshop in PH
THE ACMobility subsidiary becomes the country’s first independent aftermarket (IAM) workshop authorized to service electric and hybrid vehicles (EV/HEV), with the announcement formalized through a recent signing ceremony. This development addresses a critical need in the market by providing accessible, reliable, and trustworthy EV servicing options for Filipino consumers and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). The comprehensive service offerings range from basic preventive maintenance and mechanical diagnostics to advanced high-voltage (HV) battery diagnostics, repair, and conditioning. Geronimo Campilan, General Manager of Bosch Car Service, emphasized that this pioneering development will expand access to expert EV care, ultimately building a future-ready after-sales ecosystem that instills greater confidence in EV ownership. All Bosch Car Service (BCS) technicians undergo rigorous global certification, including specialized training in high-voltage safety and EV/ HEV systems, ensuring continuous upskilling and adherence to the highest international standards of service.
generation coupe, now a hybrid electric vehicle, has already generated significant interest in its home market, surpassing sales expectations with around 2,400 reservations in its first month in Japan.
The new Prelude features Honda’s next-generation Sports e:HEV powertrain - combining a two-liter direct-injection engine with two electric motors. The combined power units deliver a maximum output of 141 horsepower (engine) and 181
horsepower (motor), providing a combined system peak torque of 315 Newton-meters. It boasts a highly efficient fuel consumption rating of 23.6 kilometers per liter (WLTC standard) and is capable of a top speed of around 188 km/h. The drivetrain is complemented by Honda’s S+ Shift technology, which simulates virtual gear changes, and paddle shifters for manual control.
HCPI also confirmed the future arrival of models from the Honda 0 Series, the company’s
dedicated battery EV lineup, which is expected to debut in the Philippines after the Prelude. The production phase for the 0 Series is projected to start in the next year or two, with sales for the 0 Saloon and 0 SUV variants targeted in North America first.
Philippine-bound units of the 0 Series models, which will mark Honda’s first fully electric offering in the country, are anticipated to be sourced from India, following its planned sales launch there and in Japan in 2027.
ON THE ROAD
VICOAP: Nearly half of PUVs fail brake tests Advocates urge mandatory inspection
THE Vehicle Inspection Center Operators Association of the Philippines (VICOAP) and various road safety advocates are urgently calling for mandatory brake testing for all public utility vehicles (PUVs) following the revelation that nearly half of those inspected nationwide failed
Discounted spare parts under ‘Honda Helps’ include:
safety standards. The call was the central theme of a media roundtable discussion held in light of the upcoming World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.
Drawing from VICOAP’s nationwide data collected between January and September 2025, the organization
disclosed an alarming figure: 47.3% of all inspected PUVs failed to meet basic brake safety standards. Furthermore, findings from the WRNumero Surveys for Good (S4G) 2025 were presented, indicating that 8 in 10 Filipinos fear road accidents. Notably, lower-income commuters, who are most reliant on public transport, expressed the strongest concerns about road safety.
VICOAP’s primary recommendation is the drafting or refining of existing policies to mandate brake testing for PUVs. This proposal aligns with the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) Road Safety Action Plan, which targets a 35% reduction in trafficrelated deaths by 2028. The discussion brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Philippine Advocates for Road Safety, e-Sakay, De La Salle University, and WRNumero, to explore necessary data-driven reforms. The forum concluded with a unified plea for immediate action and greater collaboration among policymakers, transport operators, and the public.
The 6th generation Honda Prelude
The Honda 0a
By Peter Atencio
AYEAR ago, Team Manila was barely on the radar — nishing a distant 84th with just a single gold medal at the Batang Pinoy National Championships.
Today, the Manila athletes stand proudly among the nation’s elite, climbing all the way to fth place overall in the 2025 edition of the youth games, with an impressive 43
golds, 37 silvers, and 32 bronzes.
The dramatic turnaround was fueled by the grit and glory of 17-year-old swimmer Patricia Santor, whose sevenmedal haul — six golds and one bronze — made her one of the most bemedalled athletes of the entire tournament held in General Santos City.
Her golds came from dominant performances in the girls’ 16–17 200-meter butter y and a record-breaking swim in the 4x50-meter freestyle relay, among others.
“I really gave everything in training for this,” said Santor, whose name has now become synonymous with Manila’s resurgence in grassroots sports. She wasn’t alone. Teammates Aishel
Minions Run 2025 out to paint the town yellow
GET ready to go ba-ba-nanas!
The SM Mall of Asia Complex is set to transform into a bright yellow sea of fun and laughter when the Minions Run 2025 kicks o on November 30, promising one of the most colorful and entertaining fun runs of the year.
Around 15,000 runners are expected to don their best Minion looks and channel the mischievous charm of the small, yellow, capsule-shaped creations from the Despicable Me franchise. Participants are in for an adventure-packed with vibrant colors, playful surprises, and interactive experiences designed for all ages.
Organized by RUNRIO, the event offers 1K, 3K, 5K, and 10K race categories. Each participant will receive a special Minions race kit that includes a themed singlet, finisher medal, and collectible items inspired by everyone’s favorite little troublemakers —
Kevin, Stuart, and Bob.
“We’re excited for what’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting and family-friendly runs of the year,” said RUNRIO president and CEO Rio de la Cruz.
“The Minions Run celebrates movement, happiness, and togetherness — all wrapped up in banana-powered fun.”
Beyond the race itself, the Minions Race Village will offer an immersive experience with themed photo spots, meet-andgreets with Minion mascots, brand activations, and activity zones that bring the Despicable Me universe to life.
Capping the event is a raffle draw for all registered runners, with an all-expense-paid trip to Universal Studios Singapore as the grand prize.
So grab your goggles, lace up your running shoes, and get ready to join the most despicably fun run of the year!
Evangelista and Shiblon Montera also delivered strong showings in the pool, while Jordane Sales shone in the 12–13 girls division. Their combined success in swimming anchored Manila’s historic leap from the bottom ranks to the top ve.
“Now, we’re in the top 5. Siguro, it’s the delivery and the leadership,” said Dale Evangelista, chairman of the Manila Sports Council, attributing the team’s success to renewed focus, discipline, and unity.
“Mayor Isko Moreno gave a lot of support to the athletes — from coaches to the grassroots program that got this started. The athletes sacrificed so much for this moment.”
Manila’s medal haul wasn’t limited
Team Manila climbs from bottom to Batang Pinoy elite with 43 golds
to the pool — the city’s young tracksters also sprinted and leapt their way to podium finishes in athletics, showing that the capital’s sports program is now thriving across disciplines.
While Pasig City successfully defended its Batang Pinoy overall crown with a 9572-87 gold-silver-bronze tally, followed by Baguio City and Davao City, Manila’s comeback story became one of the tournament’s most inspiring narratives. From nearly last to fifth in just one year, Team Manila’s journey embodied the true spirit of the Batang Pinoy — youth, perseverance, and the power of believing that champions can rise from anywhere.
FRESH from the adrenaline-packed Porac Spartan Trailfecta Presented by Merrell, Alviera, Central Luzon’s premier mixed-use estate, is once again set to welcome thousands of endurance athletes and spectators for the 2025 Spartan Asia Paci c (APAC) Championship on November 8–9, 2025.
As the official venue partner for both the Trailfecta and the upcoming APAC Championship, Alviera continues to cement its reputation as a world-class hub for endurance and outdoor sporting events. These back-toback international gatherings form part of the Alviera Sports Program, a year-round initiative designed to promote active lifestyles, wellness, and community engagement across the region.
The recently concluded Trailfecta Weekend tested the
mettle of trail runners in grueling 10K, 21K, and 50K categories, with hundreds conquering the rugged terrain and scenic landscapes that have made Alviera a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
Now, the spotlight turns to an even grander stage — the Spartan APAC Championship, where elite athletes from across Asia Paci c will battle it out in a series of obstacle races across multiple formats: Sprint (5K), Super (10K), Beast (21K), Ultra (50K), and the crowd-favorite Kids Race.
“After the energy and excitement of the Trailfecta, we’re thrilled to once again open Alviera’s trails for the Spartan APAC Championship,” said Christine Enriquez-Yabao, Marketing Manager for Ayala Land Estates Central Luzon and Business Synergies. “Spartan’s values of resilience, determination, and
community perfectly align with our vision for Alviera as a hub for sports and active living.”
Nestled in the rolling hills of Porac, Pampanga, Alviera offers a dynamic blend of nature and development — its expansive trails, open spaces, and modern amenities providing the perfect balance of challenge and comfort for both local and international athletes. Beyond the races, these events generate opportunities for tourism, local enterprise, and community pride throughout Central Luzon. Through its continued partnership with Spartan Philippines, Alviera reinforces its commitment to building a vibrant sports culture—one that celebrates endurance, connection, and the relentless pursuit of wellness.
Manila Mayor Isko Moreno and Manila Sports Council director Dale Evangelista vowed to make Manila sports great again. Batang Pinoy was a good start.
Swimmer Patricia Mae Santor led Team Manila’s incredible rise in Batang Pinoy with her seven gold-medal haul.
Strategically located in Porac, Pampanga, Alviera features expansive trails, rolling hills, andopen landscapes—making it a natural playground for outdoor athletes.
Storybook promotes responsible pet ownership
ROYAL Canin, a global pet health nutrition brand, receently launched Welcome Home, Rocky & Charlie!, a children’s storybook aimed at teaching families empathy, understanding, and responsible pet ownership.
The storybook is part of Royal Canin’s advocacy to equip pet owners with knowledge and resources to help ensure their pets live healthier and happier lives. The company said responsible pet ownership begins with education, especially among children who often seek companionship from animals.
“Responsible pet ownership is about more than just meeting basic needs,” said Ann Madelene Garcia, pet specialty retail head at Royal Canin Philippines. “It’s about recognizing the unique personalities of our pets, providing the right nutrition, and creating an environment where they feel safe and loved.”
Developed with veterinarians, educators, and pet care experts, the storybook is designed as both an engaging read for children and a learning tool for families. It introduces practical lessons on pet nutrition,
health checkups, socialization, and maintaining a safe home environment.
Gerard Poa , Market Head of Royal Canin Philippines, said the initiative aims to inspire empathy and lifelong habits among young readers. “Our responsibility as a community is to ensure every pet is cared for with love and respect,” he said.
The company is extending the project through school tours in partnership with Communitails, a nonprofit that promotes animal-assisted interventions. The tours will feature storytelling sessions designed to teach children the importance of compassion and proper pet care.
The launch event at Ayala Museum brought together families for a day of storytelling, activities, and discussions on responsible ownership.
Royal Canin, which has more than 55 years of expertise in pet health nutrition, continues to promote sciencebased education through initiatives such as the Royal Canin Club, which offers expert advice, educational materials, and rewards for pet owners.
PETS
Experts urge proper pet meals over table food for healthier cats and dogs
By Nickie Wang
FEEDING pets table food instead of specially formulated pet meals can cause long-term health problems, experts warn.
Many pet owners believe sharing human food shows affection or offers better nutrition, but veterinarians caution that what is healthy for people can be harmful threatening illnesses.
Commercial pet food, on the other hand, is formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of cats and dogs. It provides the right balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals to keep pets healthy
Recognizing the need for affordable and balanced pet nutrition, Filipino-owned United Baarde Inc. (UBI) launched Dear Kat, a new dry cat food under its Pure Choice Pet Care line. Established in 2021, UBI aims to “push the human capacity to care for pets,” serving thousands of business-to-business accounts across Luzon, Cebu, Visayas, and Mindanao through agri-vets, poultry supply stores, pet shops, and
Dear Kat is formulated with premium protein sources and essential nutrients that support strong bones, shiny coats, lean muscles, and sustained energy. Available in a tuna flavor, it is suitable for cats of all life stages and designed to be easy to digest—even for sensitive cats.
“Our goal was to provide accessible commercial food for pets, and we’ve been able to achieve that by using our experience in sourcing manufacturers and partners who can produce a product packed with all the nutrients pets need without compromising , the brand’s president and general manager, told Manila
“It has become our advocacy. We understand that our products are priced lower, and we’re willing to sacrifice some profit margin because we believe that when consumers see our products as more affordable, they’ll choose them over the pricier ones in
The brand joins UBI’s growing portfolio, which includes Aromatic Cat Litter, Pro’s Choice Cat Food, Performance Dog Food, Doug & Co. Dog Food, and ichi & Co. Cat Lit-
UBI said Dear Kat represents its belief that
WITH 94 percent of Filipino households now owning pets, Fisher Mall is expanding its retail strategy to meet the country’s growing pet care demand.
Citing data from Kantar Philippines, the community mall is strengthening its position as a pet-friendly destination by introducing events and facilities that cater to families and their furry companions.
One of its major initiatives, Pet Universe 2025, brought together pet owners, brands, and animal welfare groups for activities such as pet competitions, blessings, health talks, and adoption drives. Earlier this year, Fisher Mall also hosted Supertails & Cinema, a pet-friendly movie event allowing owners to bring their pets into the theater.
“Pets are family, and with nearly every Filipino household owning one, it’s important for us to create spaces where they feel welcome,” said Raymond del Rosario, president of Fisher Mall Group of Companies. “Through our initiatives, we make sure the mall grows with our customers’ lifestyles—welcoming children, loved ones, and pets alike.”
The Philippine pet food industry continues to expand as more owners seek better nutrition and premium supplies, according to Mordor Intelligence. While supermarkets remain the primary retail channel, the
“every bite is a message of care—from us to you, from you to your cat,” offering Filipino pet owners nutritious and affordable choices that strengthen the bond between humans and their pets. A short video introducing Dear Kat can be viewed
Royal Canin's 'Welcome Home, Rocky & Charlie!' teaches children the importance of empathy, proper nutrition, and responsible pet care
Nutritious pet meals are vital for keeping a cat healthy
From left: Julius Ladica, Douglas Baarde Jr., and Wilson Samoranos of United Baarde Inc. present Dear Kat, the company’s new dry cat food formulated to provide complete and affordable nutrition for Filipino pet owners
A cat eats commercially formulated dry food, which veterinarians recommend over table scraps to ensure proper nutrients and balanced health
THERE’S something about S’mores that brings people together—melting chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and moments that feel like home.
This holiday season, Seattle’s Best Coffee and Ghirardelli are turning that warmth into a cup with the S’mores Collection Made with Ghirardelli.
Each drink captures the comforting spirit of Christmas with rich chocolate indulgence and a touch of sweetness that feels like a cozy holiday hug.
Starting this month, chocolate lovers can indulge in this limited-edition collection in Seattle’s Best Coffee stores nationwide and via GrabFood and foodpanda.
Whether you’re sipping by the tree, catching up with friends, or giving yourself a well-deserved break, there’s
a S’mores Collection drink for every kind of Christmas craving.
• Hot S’mores Ghirardelli – Cozy up with this comforting blend of Ghirardelli chocolate powder, rich espresso, and creamy marshmallow meringue, topped with a dark chocolate drizzle and crushed graham cracker. It’s Christmas warmth in a cup.
• Iced S’mores Ghirardelli – A refreshing yet
indulgent twist that combines bold espresso, Ghirardelli chocolate, and half & half over ice, finished with marshmallow meringue and a graham cracker crunch.
• S’mores Javakula – A frozen holiday treat that blends Ghirardelli chocolate, marshmallow meringue, dark chocolate sauce, and graham cracker bits, perfect for cooling down while staying in the holiday spirit.
Singapore's Michelin-starred Chef Zor Tan takes over Solaire’s Red Lantern
SOLAIRE Resort Entertainment City’s Red Lantern will host Singapore's Michelin-starred Chef Zor Tan for an exclusive three-night dining event from November 14 to 16 at 6:30 p.m.
8-course menu that reflects his Hok kien heritage and diverse culinary influences.
taurant Born, which serves a unique brand of contemporary cuisine, was ranked No. 25 in Asia's 50 Best Res taurants 2024.
its bold and unexpected flavors, drawing from Cantonese, Sichuan, and Taiwanese tra ditions.
menu for Red Lantern fea tures dishes such as Kan
vented bao with Wagyu and ing his mother's influence and his professional life in Spain. For the of Chef Tan and reflects his love for chestnuts. For the
fourth course, Chef Tan replaces the usual monkfish with abalone. This new dish features the abalone with chicken fat and highquality jade fungus from Yunnan.
The fifth course is King Crab with fish maw, a dish exclusively made for Solaire as it features a Filipino dish, Talangka rice. This is followed by a luscious A5 Wagyu cooked with Soubise, a French sauce of white onion puree and Maitake.
To end on a sweet note, Chef Tan prepares two desserts. One is a Bird Nest with grape and elderflower syrup, and the other is his signature dessert of sweet potato puree with crisps on the side, sea salt ice cream,
oolong Chantilly, and snow salt. Each dish tells a story of heritage, innovation, and emotion. The upcoming event at Red Lantern offers guests a unique opportunity to experience Chef Tan’s culinary “Circle of Life” philosophy firsthand where every dish is inspired by chapters of his life from childhood memories, professional challenges, and travels around the world.
(Red Lantern invites guests to savor a story in every course. For inquiries or reservations, dial +632 8888 8888 or visit https://sec.solaireresort.com/offers/dining/red-lantern-welcomes-guest-chef-zor-tan)
WITH the first-ever Michelin Guide Philippines now officially announced, the spotlight is on the country’s growing dining scene — from chef-driven tasting menus to proudly local kitchens redefining Filipino flavors. And whether you're finally trying a restaurant you've kept on your “someday list” or returning to a comfort favorite, Maya makes every meal better.
Maya Credit Card users can enjoy up to 20% cashback (capped at P1,000 per month) when they dine and pay with their Maya
JOYCE PANGCO PAÑARES, Issue Editor / email: joyce.panares@gmail.com
(The
The Underbelly, Your Local, 12/10, Antonio’s, Automat, Blackbird, Carmelo’s Steakhouse, Cirkulo, Fresca Trattoria, Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill, Goxo, Locavore, Lore, Lusso, Mamacita, Metiz, Now Now, Old Manila, Pablo, People’s Palace, Ramen Ron, Sala, Seva, Socarrat, Super Uncle Claypot, Taupe, Terraza Martinez, Txanton,
Nota, and Yamazato.
Indulge in the holiday flavors of Seattle's Best Coffee's S’mores Collection made with Ghirardelli chocolate
Sweet potato with sea salt ice cream and oolong Chantilly
Wagyu oyster in fried bao
SHOWBIZ
New heartbreak anthem featuring BINI Gwen
POP-ROCK band Six Part Invention lays bare the pain of lost love in its new single “Wasak Na Puso,” with BINI’s Gwen starring in the music video.
Written and produced by lead vocalist Rey Cantong, the track explores heartbreak and longing through soulful lyrics and a stirring melody.
In the music video, Gwen plays an audio archivist who discovers a box of old recordings containing a father’s heartfelt message to his children. The emotional story has resonated with fans, garnering over 200,000 views on YouTube.
“Thank you, Gwen, for being part of our ‘Wasak Na Puso’ music video. It was such a joy and honor to collaborate with you and bring this song’s story to life,” the band said in a Facebook post.
Six Part Invention recently performed the single at the Aurora Music Festival 2025 in Davao on Oct. 25, marking its return to the spotlight since the release of “Tama Pa Ba” in 2024.
NEW VOICE OF OPM
Up-and-coming singer Kavi pours his heart into debut single ‘Ulan’
By Nickie Wang
AS A young singer and songwriter, Kavi draws inspiration from the people around him, as well as from his own experiences. Listening to other people’s stories allows him to broaden his perspective on life and relationships, which are the central themes in his music.
ALL-OUT Sundays is featuring the first-ever Veiled Musician Philippines today, introducing the local edition of the South Korean global reality singing competition from Seoul Broadcasting System (SBS). The special collaboration between GMA Network, SBS, and the South Korean entertainment company Kanverse brings the competition to Filipino television for a one-time special episode on Sunday.
Veiled Musician is a global contest where singers perform behind a veil, allowing audiences and judges to focus purely on their vocal ability. Gabbi Garcia and Rayver Cruz are hosting the local edition, with Mark Bautista, Rita Daniela, and Julie Anne San Jose serving as judges. A guest judge, Girls’ Generation member Tiffany Young , also joins the panel.
“This is my first time judging a singing competition, so I’m really excited,” said Rita. Mark added that the show is “a great plat-
The same is true for his debut single, released on Friday, Nov. 7. Speaking with Manila Standard Entertainment ahead of the official launch, Kavi shared that the song was inspired by his current romantic relationship and was refined by his general observation of LDR (long-distance relationship) couples.
“Our experiences shape us as artists,” he said. “And this song is really close to my heart.”
Produced by the talented Shadiel Chan who also helmed Cup of Joe’s chart-topping hit “Multo,” the heartfelt single, according to Kavi, resonates with anyone who has ever felt the pull of separation anxiety across miles.
“It’s an OPM pop track, mellow but catchy, with a heartfelt vibe,” Kavi said of the song’s sound. He admitted feeling
both excited and nervous for its release.
“ Sobrang surreal at nakakakaba in a good way . Masaya dahil maririnig na siya ng iba.” According to the young artist, the single is a tender exploration of longing in a longdistance relationship.
“It tackles the deep ache of wanting nothing more than to bridge the gap and hold the one you love close,” Kavi related. “It’s as if you have separation anxiety. Gusto mo na makasama ‘yung mahal mo.”
The debut single holds extra meaning for Kavi, having been recorded at the renowned Open Heaven Recording Studio in the misty hills of Baguio.
Nakailang takes ako ng chorus niyan sa recording,” he said, recalling the multiple run-throughs needed to capture its raw emotion.
form for Filipino singers to showcase their world-class talent.” At the same time, Julie Anne said she looks forward to seeing which contestant will represent the country on the international stage.
Twelve contestants will compete in three rounds, with the top three moving on to represent the Philippines at the Veiled Cup in South Korea. Other participating countries include South Korea, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Mongolia, China, Thailand, and Vietnam. The overall winner of the Veiled Cup will perform on the Korean music show Inkigayo and record a soundtrack for a Korean drama.
Six Part Invention returns to the spotlight with the release of its new heartbreak single
BINI’s Gwen stars as an audio archivist uncovering emotional recordings in the ‘Wasak Na Puso’ music video Rita Daniela joins the judges’ panel for the first-ever ‘Veiled Musician’ Mark Bautista serves as one of the judges evaluating the masked vocal performances
Julie Anne San Jose sits on the judging panel for the new singing show
Gabbi Garcia joins Rayver Cruz in hosting the special one-time competition episode
Rayver Cruz co-hosts the local edition of ‘Veiled Musician Philippines’ on ‘AllOut Sundays’
Kavi sings his heart out onstage during the official launch his single
Kavi performs his debut single ‘Ulan’ live
Kavi draws from personal experiences and stories around him to shape the message of his music
GEN Z shoppers can get a head start on their Christmas wish lists with Logitech’s 11.11 deals, offering a range of mice, keyboards, headsets, and webcams designed for work, play, and everything in between.
This November, the global gaming and PC peripherals leader is offering free shipping, exclusive discounts, Shopee vouchers, and zero-interest Shopee SPayLater options for up to three months on all items. Shoppers can enjoy P100 off with a minimum spend of P2,500 or P250 off on purchases over P5,500.
For productivity enthusiasts, Logitech’s MX Master 4 mouse and MX Keys S keyboard offer precision, smart illumination, and customizable controls to streamline daily tasks. The Pebble 2 Combo adds a splash of style with minimalist design, quiet clicks, and easy switching between devices, while the Zone Vibe 100 earbuds deliver rich audio for both music and online calls. The Brio 100 webcam rounds out the lineup with full HD visuals and a privacy shutter.
Gamers can upgrade their setups with Logitech G’s 11.11 promotions, including P350 off purchases over P3,000, P500 off purchases over P4,500, and P1,500 off G923 Trueforce Racing Wheels.
Top picks include the PRO X Superlight 2 SE gaming mouse for precision play, G923 Racing Wheels for immersive racing, G733 Lightspeed headset with customizable RGB lighting, G304 gaming mouse with extended battery life, and the G213 Prodigy keyboard with customizable lighting zones. With its combination of style, performance, and convenience, Logitech’s lineup is designed to appeal to Gen Z shoppers looking for gifts that enhance both work and play. The collection is available at Logitech’s official Shopee store and Uniqlo’s online store, making holiday shopping faster and easier. For more information on products and promotions, visit Logitech and
Modern kitchen lab for future culinary masters
By Jasper Valdez
DE LA SALLE-COLLEGE of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) has reopened its renovated culinary facility, Salle de Cuisine, at the Angelo King International Center (AKIC) campus, providing students with a state-ofthe-art training environment.
The upgraded kitchen, designed for the college’s Culinary Arts Management program under the School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management, features modern appliances, including a Rational iCombi Pro oven, an induction stove with a built-in air extractor, and an upright chiller and freezer.
Modular furnishings on wheels, a full-size sink, retractable electrical outlets, and an exposed-beam ceiling complete the space, making it suitable for workshops, masterclasses, and hands-on demonstrations.
Chef Giselle de la Cueva, head of the Culinary Laboratory Unit, said the refurbished facility will allow students to apply their research and culinary development projects in a professional setting.
“In this room, students can transform research concepts into tangible culinary innovations,” she said. “With guidance from their professors, they can refine ideas, test them, and prepare them for industry presentation
and real-world application.”
The reopening featured live cooking stations, including pan de sal with smoked Certified Angus beef brisket, dumpling laksa with prawn broth, roll-your-own lumpia, and miso caramel cannoli stations.
Werdenberg Group of Companies CEO Berger, a supporter of culinary education in the Philippines, said the facility represents a commitment to nurturing future chefs.
“This kitchen is more than a place where food is prepared. It is where passion meets precision, curiosity turns into craft, and teamwork transforms ideas into meaningful experiences,” Berger said.
The event was attended by chefs and culinary leaders, including Mark Tumbale of Admiral Hotel Manila, Joris Rycken of Shangri-La The Fort, Valery Anthony of Lusso, Winnie Wong of Global Pacific Distribution Network Corporation, Rue Ribon of Maker and Made, Paulo Galang, Marianne Tiburan of Rational Cooking Systems, Chef Joseph Armando Ventura of LTB Philippines Chefs Association, and Chef Mae Montalban, consultant for Netflix series Replacing Chef Chico
For more information on the Culinary Arts Management program, visit benilde.edu.ph.
GLOBAL retailer Uniqlo is turning up the color this holiday season with KAWS WINTER, a new knitwear collection from the brand’s newly appointed Artist in Residence, KAWS. Known for his signature XX motif and COMPANION character, KAWS brings a playful pop-art edge to Uniqlo’s renowned LifeWear essentials.
The collection, launching in Japan on Nov. 21, features vibrant holiday hues—red, green, and yellow—on cashmere and lambswool sweaters, as well as HEATTECH beanies, scarves, and gloves. A special kids’ line includes Souffle Yarn™ sweaters and matching accessories, designed for comfort and style.
“For my first collection as Uniqlo’s Artist in Residence, I’m pleased to expand our partnership into knitwear,” KAWS said. “I love the sweaters they make and wanted to make a collection of
everyday basics to get you through the winter months.”
The collection includes cashmere crew neck sweaters in three colors priced at P6,990 and lambswool crew neck sweaters in four colors at P1,990. HEATTECH beanies, gloves, and scarves are available in four colors, priced from P990 to P1,490. The kids’ Souffle Yarn sweaters and accessories are offered in three colors, priced from P790 to P1,490. All items will be available at Uniqlo stores and online. Since 2016, KAWS has collaborated extensively with Uniqlo, bringing his irreverent, witty art to LifeWear staples. As the
By Frances Mae Ramos
THEY started talking about “The Age of Grandparents” as early as 2018.
There will be more grandparents soon, predicts demography. The Economist, through studies by the Max Planck Institute of Demography, foresees a couple of billion more grandparents by 2050.
There will be more weekend lunches with lolo and lola, more veteran brains to help with homework, and a fount of doting gifts on birthdays and Christmases.
More “gifted” children could be raised from this kinship arrangement.
Philippine population is expected to peak some time only in 2092, a distant 70 years from now. In that period, working age population will still grow, even as more children are being born. The presence of grandparents is balming such population pressures. And no one is more relieved about this than single mothers, who need the most help from grandparenting. It is the moms, after all, who balance childcare and employment.
The great APOstolic mission
Yet, in societies outside the Philippines, grandma and grandpa have not always been around.
Grandparented children are a wondrous phenomenon mostly in Western societies, where nuclear families are prized as independent units. Couples and their children are expected to live apart from their parents.
Retirement homes, pensions, and a generally functioning welfare and social security system give seniors a degree of independence in the twilight years. Meanwhile, daycare and other infrastructural conveniences — proximity of home to school, a reliable public school system — are a convenient confluence for parents to do the parenting.
Here in the Philippines, grandparents are not the mythical presence known only from our parents’ stories. We live with them, and they’re part of the nuclear family.
Grandparents are such a running thread in Philippine society that the fabric would unravel without them. At the heart of it is the unshakeable idea of proximity and cohabitation. Time was when it would have been unimaginable to turn over care for aging parents to retirement homes (if any at all, here in the Philippines).
Filipino boomers grew up watching over their siblings, as the broods of yore run to about nine or ten children. Now, in their senior years, they are raising the Gen Z and alphas.
The great “Apostolic” mission represents a cultural shift. Filipino boomers grew up watching over their siblings, as the broods of yore run to about nine or ten children. Now, in their senior years, they are raising the Gen Z and alphas. Not that the latter are orphaned by their Gen X or millennial parents—but when the aphorism insists “it takes a village” to raise children, the entire clan is already on it, and perhaps the entire species as well.
Lola and Lolo, with their softer approach to parenting, provide a surplus of affection, or even outright shouldering of responsibility. Under their offer of free childcare are schooled children, fed and brushed and costumed for Linggo ng Wika and other school occasions. The trend is seen at the school gates, where many grandparents await the dismissal of their charge. Meanwhile, mom and dad scrape up a living in their day jobs.
Second parenthood?
It’s difficult to narrow down to simple reasons the involvement of grandparents in the lives of their apo.
Psychologists float the idea of a second wind in parenting as essential to self-construction and legacy building.
Evolutionary studies emphasize the roles of elder members of the species (particularly females) in the care of the young to ensure species survival.
And historically speaking, elders have been a reference for social codes and refinement of thought as our species evolved into complex, communicative beings. Filipino ethnolinguistic groups generate wisdom from councils of elders to resolve community conflicts.
By Joel E. Zurbano
MAKATI City was the first local government to extend cash gifts to centenarians, and the first batch was awarded during the administration of then-mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay.
The city’s Centenarian Program offers eligible senior residents who reach 100 years old a P100,000 cash gift, a birthday cake, and a plaque of appreciation.
This program supplements the national Centenarians Law and is part of the city’s broader effort to support its senior citizens.
Just last Nov. 4, Mayor Nancy Binay announced the establishment of the Makati Senior Citizens Assistance and Inclusion Program, which would take effect in April next year.
Under the newly-enacted City Ordinance No. 2025-A-023, the measure strengthens and reinforces prior benefits, reflecting the local government’s core dedication to upholding the dignity, health, and active engagement of its
By Maricel V. Cruz
THE digital National Senior Citizen ID (NSCID) that can be accessed through the eGovPH app is the start of a new chapter in the government’s efforts at caring for senior citizens, according to Leyte First District Rep. Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez. The former House Speaker said the initiative, jointly launched by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the National Commission of Senior Citizens
By Pot Chavez
CENTENARIAN
Magdalena R. Flores was born on April 4, 1925 in the province of Capiz but for more than five decades she has called Manila her home, where she lives with her only daughter and her granddaughters.
In an exclusive interview with Manila Standard, her daughter Merrian FloresMadayag said she has always been surrounded by her family ensuring she is never left alone.
It could also work the other way: grown children do not move out, and when they do marry no one will judge the choice to move even their families into their parents’ house. The motivation behind this seems far more complex than economics. If ever it is, no one is doing a cost-benefit analysis.
As such, the kinship norm of matrilocality or patrilocality (living with either the mother’s or father’s side of the family upon marriage), includes grandparents in domestic obligations. Yet, curiously, even married adult Filipinos living apart from their parents could drop off their children at lolo’s or lola’s when they are busy. It’s a relationship that’s almost a given in Philippine society.
There have been radical whispers of compensating grandparental childcare, just as there has been increasing clamor for recognizing maternal care.
For where the mental load of parenting threatens to spill over, grandparenting plugs the gaps. It’s the details of child rearing versus the simple provision of needs. The warm, lovingly prepared afterschool snack, the been-there-done-that of practical matters like raincoats, schoolbags, and what might be too much ice cream.
Expat Grannies
And it’s not just Philippine infrastructure making an urgent need for “apostolic” missions. Filipino emigrés, especially child-bearing women, know the drill in developed economies. After successfully crossing borders and securing legitimate jobs abroad, they could still find institutional mechanisms such as daycares and more generous parental leaves (which also include paternity leaves in some European countries) insufficient for the entire mental load.
It’s common for OFWs, or the mothers among them, to expatriate their own parents in search of childcare support.
(Frances Mae Ramos is a writer, painter, and French language coach)
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
last August, streamlines access to senior citizens’ privileges, such as discounts on food, medicine, transport, and healthcare. It will benefit 8.4 million senior citizens already wth national IDs, and the 1.2 million accounts activated on eGovPH to date. Those with a national ID and an active eGovPH account will automatically have their digital NSCID generated—no extra forms or paperwork needed.
“Connectivity is the backbone of inclusivity. Better internet means better access—not just for our seniors but also for students, workers, farmers,
of our profound gratitude, ensuring they can live their remaining years with absolute security, health, and respect.”
The ordinance establishes three fundamental pillars of support: enhanced financial and food security, active inclusion and employment, and tax incentives for corporate support. It
and entrepreneurs who must be part of our modern digital economy,” Romualdez said.
According to Romualdez, the digital NSCID is not just an ID card but a reflection of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to modernize governance and bring public service closer to every Filipino.
“Through the eGovPH app, our senior citizens can immediately see their benefits and services—no need for long queues or extra hassle,” Romualdez said.
He acknowledged that “today’s technology has made life easier with
“Her four granddaughters share in the caregiving, and we are fortunate that three of them are healthcare professionals (two nurses and a doctor), so lola receives attentive care every day... For someone who has reached a century of life, lola is remarkably healthy. She deals only with age-related conditions such as hypertension, arthritis, and mild hyperacidity/GERD, as well as low vision and impaired hearing,” she said. She added her mother has regular check-ups at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) in Quezon City. Occasionally, Nanay Magdalena experiences constipation, which is common in advanced age. After their recent precautionary visit to the hospital, they increased her fiber intake by adding even more vegetables and fresh fruits to her daily meals.
Merrian shared that her mother’s maintenance medicines including Felodipine and Trimetazidine help keep her in good condition, along with multivitamins, B-complex supplements,
and prescribed eyedrops.
formalizes an annual cash incentive of twelve thousand pesos (P12,000.00) for all eligible Blu Card and/or White Card holders, which is disbursed biannually in equal installments.
The current incentive structure for beneficiaries is tiered 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 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 ten (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 (PESO)Makati 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.
just a tap on our phones. The same speed and efficiency should also apply to the delivery of government services, especially for our senior citizens who deserve comfort and dignity in their twilight years.” Romualdez also highlighted the measure’s protective value.
“Because the information is already in the app, seniors are less likely to be victimized by fixers or scammers pretending to ‘assist’ them. Wala nang bibilis pa sa tiyak at ligtas na eGovPH app,” he
Although her appetite has naturally decreased, Nanay Magdalena still enjoys three small meals a day and prefers simple yet nourishing food. Her favorites include Pinakbet and Dinengdeng, traditional Ilocano dishes cooked by her daughter. Nanay Magdalena also delights in a bar of Cloud 9 chocolate reminding Merrian to restock when she runs low. Likewise, she enjoys soft biscuits and cool desserts like fruit salad, ice cream, Slurpees, and fruit shakes.
“Because of her hyperacidity, we avoid serving her overly sour, oily, or spicy foods, as advised by her doctor. And when it comes to sweets, the doctor encourages us to let her enjoy them in moderation because maintaining her appetite and joy is what matters most,” Merrian said.
At around 5:00 a.m., Nanay watches Eat Bulaga on the television beside her bed in the afternoon, and diligently catching the evening news before retiring for the night at 7:00–8:00 p.m.
“Be patient and understanding with your grandmothers and grandfathers. This stage of their lives calls for love and compassion. Caring for an elderly family member is not an obligation—it is an honor and a privilege,” she said.
“Information
FOUR GENERATIONS. Great grandad Mario, at right, 91, visits Great Grandson, Leandro Luis, two-and-half months, first born of Dad Joseph, 34, while Grand dad Bobby, 67, left, looks on. Bobby Galvez
Lola Flora with Mayor Nancy Binay and other Makati officials