Manila Standard - 2025 November 14 - Friday

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‘CLOSE OF A CHAPTER IN COUNTRY’S HISTORY’: ENRILE DIES AT 101

Xmas jail for infra mess culprits

By Charles Dantes and Maricel Cruz

PRESIDENT Fer-

dinand Marcos Jr. vowed on Thursday that those behind bogus flood control projects will be arrested before Christmas, days after deadly back-toback typhoons left swathes of the country underwater and nearly four months after he first exposed the scheme in his 2025 State of the Na tion Address (SONA).

“Before Christmas, many of those named here, I think their cases will be concluded, their cases will be built, and they will be imprisoned. There will be no ‘Merry Christmas’ for them. Before Christmas, they will be jailed,” Mr. Marcos said in a press conference Thursday.

“And those people who are in volved there – these shameless ones who steal the people's money – your happy days are over. We will chase you down,” he added.

Scores of construction firm own ers, government officials, and lawmakers have been accused of pocketing funds for substandard or so-called ghost infrastructure projects.

The Department of Finance has estimated the economy lost up to P118.5-billion from 2023 to 2025 due to corruption in flood control projects.

Criminal cases against most of the people implicated were nearly completed, Mr. Marcos told reporters.

Asked if his cousin—former House Speaker and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez—will also face charges,

By Joel E. Zurbano

initiate

proceedings against

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Charlito Mendoza as commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), replacing Romeo Lumagui, Malacañang confirmed on Wednesday. Meanwhile, acting Justice Secretary Frederick Vida on Thursday confirmed his appointment as the

Secretary of the Department of Justice (DOJ), a post vacated by

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla

The appointment paper, signed by the President, directs Mendoza to as

sume office and perform the duties of BIR commissioner upon taking his oath and submitting copies to the Office of the President and the Civil Service Commission.

Mendoza’s appointment marks

By Pot Chavez and Katrina Manubay

next week,” ICI chairman Andres Reyes Jr. told reporters but did not identify them.

another key change within the De partment of Finance as the admin istration continues to pursue fiscal reforms and enhance revenue collec tion efforts. Presidential Communica tions Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez also confirmed the changes in BIR, but did not specify the reason why

By Vince

Lopez

IGLESIA Ni Cristo (INC) spokesperson and Minister of the Gospel Brother Edwil Zabala said that even non-members

Juan Ponce Enrile

Charlito Mendoza

Xmas...

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Marcos said "not as yet," noting there was no evidence yet on the latter’s involvement in the flood control mess.

“If something else comes out, then he (Romualdez) might have to be answerable for something," he said. "There are no exemptions in these probes.”

"We don't file cases for optics. We file cases to put people in jail or to make people answer…There are many suggestions of who else we should file cases against. We’re fine with that. Provide us the evidence and we will file cases against them," the President added.

Mr. Marcos also encouraged the public to continue reporting corruption through the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” online platform, which he described as a key source of information for the ongoing probes.

As for former lawmaker Zaldy Co, the President said the government

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against several former and incumbent government officials, including some legislators.

Among those charged were incumbent Senators Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada, as well as former Ako Bicol party list Rep. Zaldy Co, former Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, Commission on Audit Commissioner Mario Lipana, and

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voice of the Iglesia Ni Cristo to the calls of many of our countrymen condemning the enormous evil involving many government officials,’’ Zabala said.

Meanwhile, Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. announced the initial security deployment plan for the three-day peace rallies in Manila and Quezon City, assuring the public of both maximum tolerance and a system designed to manage police fatigue.

At least 16,433 police officers from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and supporting units will be deployed to secure the assemblies not only in Luneta and the EDSA People Power Monument but also in other areas where lightning rallies are expected from November 16 to 18.

Around 1,400 policemen will be positioned at the Ayala Bridge, while 1,100 officers will be stationed along Recto Avenue to secure areas where violent protesters sparked a riot dur-

Mendoza...

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Lumagui was removed as head of the agency. Lumagui, who served as BIR chief since 2022, led the agency through various modernization and enforcement initiatives, targeting large-scale tax evasion and illicit trade.

will immediately cancel his passport once formal charges are filed against him over alleged “ghost” flood control projects.

"Since no case has been filed yet, the request for the cancellation of his passport cannot yet be made. However, when the time comes, we will immediately cancel his passport," he said.

"You have to give grounds for the cancellation of the passport, and those grounds will be based on the cases that will be filed against him," Mr. Marcos added.

Asked whether Co could serve as a state witness in the corruption probe, the President said the option "is always there except for those who are the most guilty."

Mr. Marcos, however, declined to answer whether he thinks Co is most guilty.

“If I answer that, people might say I have pre-judged…Let the courts do their work, let the judges do the work,” he said.

Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker Paolo

former Caloocan Rep. Mitch Cajayon-Uy.

Reyes also announced on Thursday that the ICI will submit another recommendation to the Office of the Ombudsman for the filing of administrative cases against several former DPWH officials. The recommendation arose from alleged irregularities associated with a flood control project in Bocaue, Bulacan, worth some P74 million.

Targets of the recommendation included former DPWH chief Manuel Bonoan and former Undersecre -

ing a previous demonstration on September 21.

‘‘I have directed the NCRPO to ensure maximum tolerance and maintain a high level of discipline and professionalism among all deployed personnel. Our goal is to keep the activity peaceful, orderly, and safe for everyone, both participants and the general public,’’ Nartatez said.

Zabala emphasized that ‘‘the call of the Iglesia Ni Cristo is part of the citizens’ right to express themselves, which is guaranteed by our Constitution.’’

‘‘We are appealing to the government to conduct a just and open investigation of all those allegedly involved so that the perpetrators will be held accountable and the funds they have stolen will be returned to the public coffers,’’ the INC spokesperson added.

A program will be held on the first day of the rally on November 16, beginning at 4 p.m. at the QuirinoGrandstand.

According to Zabala, the expected speakers are ministers of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, but non-INC members whose proposed speeches align with the church’s call are also welcome.

Mendoza’s appointment comes at a time when the government faces growing fiscal challenges in the aftermath of recent natural disasters and ongoing recovery efforts.

As BIR commissioner, Mendoza will oversee one of the country’s largest revenue-generating agencies, responsible for generating over 70 percent of total government income.

Vida made the announcement dur-

Ortega V of La Union welcomed the President’s clear reminder that all investigations must be anchored on evidence and not speculation.

“The President reminded everyone of a basic principle: cases must be filed on evidence, not on noise. That standard applies to all who are being mentioned in this issue. It is a timely reminder at a moment when accusations are circulating without documents or testimony to support them,” Ortega said.

In the case of Romualdez, Ortega noted the records of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure consistently showed no paper trail, no transaction, and no testimony linking the former Speaker to any questionable project.

“Former Speaker Romualdez has already faced the ICI under oath. He submitted documents, answered every question, and made himself fully accountable. The agencies handling the review have full access to the records, and none point to his involvement,” Ortega said.

taries Roberto Bernardo and Maria Cabral. Additionally, the ICI has alerted the Ombudsman to investigate the actions of other individuals connected to this project, considering possible violations of anti-graft laws, malversation, and other legal statutes.

Those cited in the referral included former DPWH Bulacan First District engineer Henry Alcantara, assistant engineer Brice Hernandez, and engineers Ernesto Galang, Jolo Mari Tayao, John Michael Ramos, Lemuel Ephraim Roque, and Darcy Kimel

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He said the only claim ever raised against Romualdez came from what he described as a tainted testimony of Orly Guteza, whose affidavit was confirmed to contain a falsified signature of a lawyer by a Manila court.

Ortega said Guteza did not return to the Department of Justice to validate his allegations, despite being required to do so.

House Committee on Human Rights chairman and Manila Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. said the President upheld how the justice system works.

“Up to now, there is no document, no signature, no transaction, and no testimony directly pointing to former Speaker Romualdez. The ICI has access to all implementing agencies. If anything existed, it would have surfaced by now,” Abante said.

“Speculation is easy. Accountability requires facts. The President’s message was simple and correct: bring the evidence, and the government will act. Without it, there is no case,” he added.

Respecio.

On the same day, the ICI also bared a corruption scheme involving lawmakers, public works and highways officials, and private contractors to corner government projects.

The ICI said the scheme starts with a proponent who is either a member of the Senate or of the House of Representatives, who informs the DPWH that he or she has a budget allocated for infrastructure projects. The scheme involves flood control projects because the kickback is certified at 30 percent.

(DFA) to submit written certifications confirming receipt of any ICC-related warrants through official channels.

Last week, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed ‘‘on good authority’’ the issuance of an ICC warrant.

In a separate interview with Manila Standard, lawyer Ismael Sarangaya Jr., who teaches private international law, explained that the issuance of a TRO is ‘‘merely a provisional remedy and the merits will still have to be resolved.’’

‘‘Now, if the SC sides with Bato, it would have an impact on the legality of Duterte’s surrender, although we all agree that the ICC will not be bound by that decision. But it would expose those who effected the arrest and surrender to possible administrative and/or criminal liability,’’ he said.

Sarangaya, who is the associate dean of the Philippine Christian University College of Law, noted that the SC may still rule on Duterte’s case given the importance of the constitutional question.

Senator Ronald ‘‘Bato’’ Dela Rosa, meanwhile, posted on social media expressing his faith amid reports of an alleged International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him.

In two separate Facebook posts on Thursday, November 13, Dela Rosa was seen holding an image of the Santo Niño and in another photo with Father Cianno Ubod of the Compostela Parish Church in Cebu.

‘‘My patron saint, my kabirthday always in January. Viva Pit Señor Santo Niño!’’ his first post read.

Meanwhile, his second post was about his first personal encounter with Ubod.

‘‘Times like these, we need to seek some guidance from our spiritual adviser. Thank you, Father Ciano,’’ he said.

To recall, Dela Rosa skipped the resumption of Senate sessions twice this week.

ing his speech at the 89th founding anniversary celebration of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Thursday morning.

“Nagsimula ang programa OIC ako, kalagitnaan ng programa, Secretary na ako (When the program started, I was OIC (officer-in-charge). Halfway through, I am already the Secretary),” he said.

The DOJ later released the ap -

pointment paper of Vida from Malacañang, indicating his designation as “acting secretary.” Vida previously served in various leadership roles in Cavite before joining the DOJ in 2023. He rose through the ranks, from Assistant Secretary to Undersecretary, and to OIC last month, following Remulla’s designation as Ombudsman.

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to public service, noting that even in his final years, the veteran statesman remained "brilliant, sharp, and firm in his belief that law and governance must always serve the Filipino people."

"His passing marks the close of a chapter in our nation’s history," Mr. Marcos said. "But the mark he leaves behind in law, in governance, and in the hearts of those he served will never be forgotten.”

The Senate flew the Philippine flag at half-mast to mourn the death of Enrile, who served as Senate President from 2008 to 2013.

“He has dedicated his whole life, even until his last days, to public service. We will remember him for his formidable intellect and compassion to the people,” Senate President Vicente Sotto III said.

“As we mourn his passing, we find comfort in knowing that the legacy of Manong Johnny will always live on, etched within the walls of this institution that he loved,” he added.

Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez added: “We lost a pillar of public service.”

“Enrile’s long life in public office stands as a testament to resilience and duty — qualities he said younger generations of leaders must strive to uphold,” Romualdez said.

The Department of National Defense also joined the nation in mourning the passing of Enrile, the country’s longest-serving Defense Secretary.

In a statement, the department described Enrile as “an icon in defense policy and strategy” who played a foundational role in shaping the modern DND.

Known as the architect of Martial Law during the rule of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos Sr., the Harvard-educated Enrile was a long-time top adviser to the former leader.

Enrile later turned on Marcos and was instrumental in sparking the popular 1986 uprising that led to the President's ouster.

Enrile eventually helped the Marcos family in their remarkable political comeback after they returned from exile, joining the current administration as chief presidential legal counsel.

But for Bonifacio Ilagan, head of a group of former dissidents thrown into prison during martial rule, said in a statement the group has "no tears to shed" for a man who "will forever be remembered neither as a patriot or a statesman, but as one of the chief architects and defenders of tyranny, repression, and corruption in the country."

According to his memoir, Enrile was a widow's son by a prominent married lawyer. He was born Juanito Furagganan on February 14, 1924.

The boy later took his father's name and became a respected attorney himself, as well as a close confidant of Marcos Sr. who would win the presidency in 1965.

Before becoming Defense minister, Enrile held other key posts, including customs chief and justice minister. He was briefly arrested in 1990, 2001, and 2014 – the first two times for alleged involvement in coup plots and the last over the embezzlement of public funds.

Citing Enrile's "fragile health," the Supreme Court granted him bail in 2015, allowing him to spend his twilight days at home. A special graft court dismissed the plunder, or massive corruption, charges against Enrile last year, and last month acquitted him of the remaining graft cases against him. With AFP

BREAKAWAY. Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrile speaks before supporters at the PC-INP grounds after transferring from the Ministry of National Defense where he and PC-INP chief Fidel Ramos announced their breakaway from the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos, Sr. in February 1986. Sonny Camarillo

No violation of vloggers’ rights in fake news probe

By Pot Chavez

THE Supreme Court (SC) on Thursday ruled that a congressional inquiry into the spread of fake news online does not violate vloggers’ right to free speech when they are invited as resource persons.

In its decision, the SC En Banc said Congress cannot be barred from inviting resource persons to legislative inquiries simply because the topic involves speech. It em-

phasized that the legislative department has broad authority to regulate matters for the common good.

The High Tribunal also noted that the House of Representatives acted

within its power when it conducted an inquiry into the spread of false or misleading information, which can undermine public trust and threaten social stability.

“The dangers of the proliferation of false information and narratives are not difficult to imagine, and the need to address this issue most promptly is truly imperative. Allowing the unregulated dissemination of erroneous facts will ultimately degrade trust among the people and threaten the stability and reliability of day-to-day transactions,” the SC said.

It dismissed the petition filed by Ernesto S. Abines Jr. and others seeking to stop the House from requiring them to attend hearings involving their social media posts.

The case stemmed from speeches by former Surigao del Norte Representative Robert Ace S. Barbers, who warned about coordinated online attacks against officials.

Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, in a concurring opinion, said the hearings had a valid legislative purpose even if the case was already moot.

Herbosa says DOH strengthens fight against tuberculosis

By Ram Superable

HEALTH Secretary Ted Herbosa on Thursday said the Department of Health (DOH) is modernizing tuberculosis screening and treatment nationwide.

The agency is deploying ultraportable, AI-powered chest X-rays and WHO-recommended nucleic

OVP

acid amplification tests for faster diagnosis.

“We are already using an innovative regimen for drug-resistant TB that cuts treatment from two years to only six months with a higher success rate,” Herbosa said.

He added that TB services are now being integrated into DOH-run BUCAS centers and local primary

seeks permanent o ice, museum, charter for 90th anniv

By Ma. Katrina Mikaela Manubay

VICE President Sara Duterte marked the 90th anniversary of the Office of the Vice President (OVP) by emphasizing its enduring role in serving the public and advancing reforms to strengthen its legacy.

In a recorded message on Thursday, Duterte highlighted three key initiatives — the creation of an OVP Museum, the establishment of a permanent OVP office, and the pursuit of an OVP Charter.

The proposed museum will preserve and showcase the history and legacy of the vice presidency for future generations. The plan for a

permanent office aims to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure continuous service regardless of administration.

Currently, the OVP is based at Robinsons Cybergate Plaza in Mandaluyong City. Former vice presidents Leni Robredo and Jejomar Binay previously held offices at the Quezon City Reception House and Coconut Palace, respectively.

Duterte said the proposed charter will formalize the OVP’s mandate and capacities.

The OVP will also launch a pop-up exhibit in Quezon City on November 14 to celebrate the milestone and honor the contributions of past vice presidents.

care facilities. Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive, the Philippines has intensified efforts to eliminate TB, unveiling the Philippine Strategic TB Elimination Plan (PhilSTEP2) and the Philippine Acceleration Action Plan for Tuberculosis 2023–2035.

The DOH aims to screen 12 million Filipinos for TB by 2026, backed by a

IN BRIEF

2 cops die in Abra station shootout

BANGUED, Abra—Two police officers died in a shooting incident inside the Provincial Explosives and Ordnance and Canine Unit (PECU) headquarters at Casamata Hill, Zone 5, recently.

Police Staff Sergeant Ryan Calica, 37, was brushing his teeth when Police Lt. Jamieson Bulatao, 47, allegedly shot him four times. Master Sergeant Edwin Banddoc returned fire, hitting Bulatao in the chest and stomach. Both Calica, from Pidigan, Abra, and Bulatao, from Baguio City, were rushed to the Abra Provincial Hospital but were declared dead on arrival.

Investigators said Bulatao may have suspected Calica of reporting his alleged drinking on duty to higher authorities. Police Col. Charles Dumalig, provincial director, ordered a thorough investigation and reminded officers to

Ilocos,

proposed ₱4.2-billion budget to speed up service delivery. Prevention is being reinforced through shorter TB preventive treatment regimens, leading to a 50-percent increase in enrollment in 2024. Community campaigns like TPTodo continue to raise public awareness, while public-private partnerships are expanding services to reduce TB incidence and deaths by 2035.

US deploys military assets for relief operations

By Rex Espiritu

AT the request of the Philippine government, the United States military is working with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to provide disaster relief to communities affected by consecutive tropical cyclones Tino (Kalmaegi) and Uwan (Fung-wong). The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s forward presence in the region enabled rapid, coordinated responses, underscoring Washington’s commitment to its Philippine ally in times of crisis.

The U.S. military is coordinating with the AFP, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management

Council, the Office of Civil Defense, the Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group, Task Force Philippines, and the U.S. Department of State.

“I have been impressed by the preparedness and forward-leaning measures of the Philippine government, and we will support its lead in this relief mission,” said U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Robert Brodie, commanding general of the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade.

“Support to our friends, allies, and partners in a time of need is non-negotiable,” Brodie added. Since November 5, the U.S. military has been providing vital supplies to regions hit by the storms through joint mission planning and coordination.

DISCAYA CARS FOR AUCTION. Luxury vehicles seized from the Discayas, including Rolls-Royce, Mercedes-Benz, and Bentley models, are displayed for public viewing at the Bureau of Customs Port Users Confederation grounds in Manila before their auction on November 20. Norman Cruz

DAMAGED. Super Typhoon Uwan damages the UNESCO-listed Batad Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao, carving landslides into the centuries-old hand-built terraces and nearby homes. Romeo Heppog

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

IN BRIEF

Sokor gifts Pinoy war veteran with new home

A FILIPINO veteran of the Korean War has been gifted with a beautiful home in Calamba City, Laguna as a token of enduring friendship between the two countries.

Sgt. Florendo Benedicto, now 93, received the papers to his new home at Barangay Parian, Calamba from Korean ambassador to Manila Lee SangHwa and Korean Army chief Maj. Gen. Shin Eun-Bong in a ceremony held on Wednesday, Nov. 12, in Calamba. Benedicto, a member of the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea, took in the the Battle of Yultong and served from Day One 1 up to the end of the Korean war.

Philippine Army 2nd Infantry

“Jungle Fighter” Division commander Maj. Gen. Ramon Zagala, who represented the Philippines during the ceremony, congratulated Benedicto and.thanked the South Korean government for improving the morale and welfare of PEFTOK veterans 75 years after Korean War. Rex Espiritu

Agents seize P6.8-m shabu, nab 2 in Lanao

A JOINT team of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Wednesday arrested two suspected drug dealers and seized one kilo of shabu worth P6.8 million during a buy-bust operation at Barangay Poblacion, Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte.

The suspects were identified by their aliases Mado, 42, a tricycle driver, and Clyde, 41, a businessman, both of Purok 2, Barangay Poblacion.

The operation was led by the PDEA in Region 9, in coordination with the PDEA Region 10 and the local PNP station. Also confiscated from the suspects were a caliber .22 revolver with live ammunition, the buy-bust money, and other pieces of evidence.

Cagara is new chief of Army’s 6th ID

THE Army’s 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division based at Camp Siongco, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte has a new commander, Maj. Gen. Vladimir Cagara. Army chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete presided at the turnover of command between Cagara and Maj. Gen. Donald Gumiran who was reassigned as the new commander of Western Mindanao Command.

In his acceptance remarks, Cagara thanked the Army leadership for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading one of the service’s premier divisions.

“First is the opportunity of taking charge of an Infantry Division, a major unit of the Philippine Army—a challenging yet fulfilling responsibility, especially since the 6th Infantry Division is widely recognized for its rich history and accomplishments, particularly in fighting terrorism and maintaining peace in its area of responsibility,” he said. Rex Espiritu

DILG probes exec’s socmed post

By Vince Lopez

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said on Wednesday, Nov. 12, it is investigating one of its ranking officials who is currently being publicly criticized for going on a TikTok dance that went viral at the height of super typhoon “Uwan.”

The DILG did not name the

munications and External Affairs

in Hanoi, Vietnam was questioned over its appropriateness while Filipinos at home are battling a severe storm.

“The DILG is investigating a social media post by one of its officials. Said official has voluntarily gone on leave to ensure an impartial probe and full accountability,” the agency said in a statement.

“The DILG remains resolute in upholding the highest standards of public service and professional conduct among its officials and personnel,” it added.

Netizens criticized Crisostomo for choosing to film herself dancing to

a trendy audio track instead of using her platform to warn Filipinos about the dangers of the oncoming storm or what they can do amid the crisis.

The issue post surfaced just as the DILG ordered Cebu provincial officials to submit records of all foreign travels by local chief executives and government officials for review.

The move came amid reports that some officials went abroad as “Uwan” battered the country.

According to Cebu provincial assistant administrator Aldwin Empaces, the Office of the Governor received a formal directive from the DILG Central Office on the matter.

SC bares approval of CJCA for tribunal’s members

By Pot Chavez

THE Supreme Court (SC) on Thursday announced the approval of the 2025 Code of Judicial Conduct and Accountability (CJCA) for members of the tribunal.

This was part of the SC’s Strategic

Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022–2027 (SPJI) which is a blueprint for a responsive, technology-driven, and integrity-centered justice system.

It is part of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo’s initiative that started with the launch of the Code of Professional Responsibility and

BI intercepts six Pinoy victims of trafficking

By Vito Barcelo

“We now see links between closed POGO companies in the Philippines and scam hubs overseas,” said BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado. “Some of these POGOs pretended to be legitimate, but were actually fronts for scam operations. Now that they’ve shut down, they’re recruiting Filipinos to work for scam hubs abroad.” Viado warned the public against accepting suspicious overseas job offers, citing reports that repatriated victims had suffered abuse, torture, and electrocution while working in similar operations.

Accountability (CPRA) for all lawyers and the Code of Conduct and Accountability for all court officials and personnel.

The CJCA provides clearer guidance on the principles of independence, integrity, impartiality, propriety, equality, competence, diligence, and ac-

countability. Likewise, it shall integrate provisions responsive to the realities of contemporary judging.

The SC will hold a special en banc session next week for a nationwide oath-taking ceremony with the participation of all justices, judges, court officials, and personnel.

PH-Italy talks tackle submarine cable disruptions at WPS

RECENT incidents of cable disruptions in the vicinity of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) have exposed the vulnerabilities of the world’s underwater lifelines which are critical infrastructures that are increasingly threatened by both natural and man-made forces.

At the Stratbase Institute forum, dubbed “Enhancing Underwater Domain Resilience through Strengthened Philippine–Italy Cooperation,” experts and defense officials from both countries underscored that protecting subsea infrastructure is an urgent shared priority in maintaining regional stability and a rules-based international order.

Italian ambassador to the Philippines Davide Giglio opened the dialogue by expressing Italy’s solidarity with the Filipino people affected by recent typhoons, and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to deepening engagement with the

Philippines and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

“Italy approaches its engagement in the Indo-Pacific through dialogue, inclusiveness and shared responsibility,” Giglio said.

“We firmly believe that stability and progress can only be achieved through mutual understanding and practical cooperation, especially in areas of emerging strategic importance, such as the underwater domain. This is a new frontier. It is reckoned that 80 percent of the surface area in the underwater environment is still unexplored,” he added. Stratbase Institute president Prof. Victor Andres Manhit said given the Philippines’ geographic position, the country plays a central role in securing global communications, as many of the world’s major subsea cables traverse its waters.

Rio N. Araja

official in question, but was apparently referring to Assistant Secretary for Com-

lawyer Maria Liavel Badillo-Crisostomo. Crisostomo’s ‘Opalite’ dance while

NEW TOOLS FOR LABOR TRAINING CENTER. The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority labor training center acquires 14 units of brand new flux-cored arc welding and two gas-cutting machines at the newly constructed facility in Subic Bay Freeport Zone. In photo are SBMA deputy administrator Ramon Agregado, SBMA labor department manager Melvin Varias, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority -Zambales administrator Eugene Peñaranda and TESDA provincial director Leonardo Tabamo. SBMA photo

NEVER TOO LATE FOR A NICE GIFT. Sgt. Florendo Benedicto, 93, a veteran of the Korean War, chats with the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Ramon Zagala at the sideline of a ceremony in Calamba City, Laguna where South Korean Ambassador to Manila Lee Sang-Hwa and Korean Army personnel chief Maj. Gen. Shin Eun-Bong presented the Korean War hero with a new home as gift of their government.

A NOT SO LITTLE CHRISTMAS TREE. Officials of University of Perpetual Help System Dalta -Las Piñas City campus led by director Dr. Arnaldo De Guzman, switch the lights on their Grand Christmas Tree to welcome the upcoming Yuletide Season, as well as their 50th year. Dennis Abrina

OPINION

Smoke and mirrors

THE stage is being set once more for another smoke and mirrors show.

From Nov. 16 to 18, Luneta Park will be filled by the so-called “accountability rally” organized by the Iglesia ni Cristo, now joined by the Kingdom of Jesus Christ led by Apollo Quiboloy and, not surprisingly, the Jesus Is Lord movement of Bro. Eddie Villanueva.

The organizers claim the event is all about transparency and good governance. The logistics—and the timing—suggest something else entirely.

If this were a genuine civic call for accountability, its organizers could have simply joined the broader Nov. 30 rally on the same theme. Instead, they’ve chosen a three-day marathon, echoing the choreography of EDSA I and II: prolonged demonstrations followed by a dramatic “withdrawal of support” from the military. Reports have already surfaced that emissaries are testing the waters with both retired and active generals.

A similar attempt fizzled out last September when the Armed Forces chief refused to play along, but the script remains the same. Inside the Senate, a parallel subplot is unfolding.

Whispers of an impending power shift suggest the possible return of figures linked to the old order.

One name keeps surfacing—Rodante Marcoleta—along with rumors of a new Blue Ribbon “star witness” ready to implicate President Marcos Jr.

The objective seems transparent: to manufacture the image of a collapsing administration just in time for the Luneta spectacle.

The slogan is said to be ready: “Step down, Marcos. Install Sara.”

But timing is everything.

The rally comes just as the Independent Commission for Infrastructure has referred two major plunder and graft cases to the Ombudsman.

The Department of Justice and National Bureau of Investigation are finalizing airtight documentation.

The Ombudsman is preparing non-bailable charges, the Anti-Money Laundering Council has frozen billions in suspicious assets, and the Bureau of Internal Revenue has filed tax-evasion cases against contractors whose declared incomes cannot explain their wealth.

The machinery of justice, long idle, is suddenly alive—and those caught in its gears are fighting back.

This rally, for all its sanctimonious trappings, is no moral crusade. It is a counteroffensive, an effort to turn

legitimate investigation into alleged persecution, to deflect public outrage from the accused toward the accusers.

Faith is being wielded as armor, and moral outrage deployed as camouflage.

The pattern is unmistakable: when subpoenas are served, rallies appear.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla’s inspection of the new Quezon City Jail Male Dormitory in Payatas was not, as some believe, a courtesy visit. The facility lies a short drive from the Sandiganbayan, where the cases will be tried.

This rally, for all its sanctimonious trappings, is no moral crusade

When arrest warrants are issued, the transfers will be swift. The logistics, like the protests, are in place.

As for coup talk, it remains mostly the chatter of lower-ranking officers.

Senior officers—many of whom have trained in US defense schools—know too well the cost of instability.

They understand geopolitics and the peril of returning influence to a faction openly aligned with Beijing. At best, the current grumbling is a rehearsal, not a rebellion.

The greater threat lies not in a coup but in confusion.

The orchestrated noise of “accountability” threatens to obscure the truth: this is the first administration in years to allow the country’s anti-graft institutions to operate without political meddling.

The coordination among the ICI, DOJ, NBI, Ombudsman, AMLC, and BIR is unprecedented. The system, for once, is working, which is precisely why it is now under siege.

Justice does not march in the streets.

It moves quietly, methodically, on paper and in courtrooms.

As the chants of “morality” and “freedom” echo through Luneta, the real reckoning is already underway.

And when the same names demanding accountability start appearing not in press releases but in charge sheets, the irony will be complete.

When the rented buses leave and the stage lights fade, what will remain are the white shirts—not symbols of purity, but reminders of what desperation looks like when the majesty of the law overturns outright lies. (Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Indigenous Peoples unite vs. climate injustice

AS THE Belém Conference of Parties (COP30) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change entered its third day last Wednesday, Indigenous Peoples’ protesters surged through security barriers at the United Nations “blue zone,” chanting “our forests are not for sale.” Scuffles with guards lseft minor injuries and brief disruption, underscoring a core grievance: decisions about the planet’s future are still too often made without the Peoples who have protected its last intact ecosystems. The confrontation followed a week of marches, river flotillas, and a “people’s summit” in Belém, amplifying demands for land rights, real participation, and protection for defenders. That this drama is unfolding in Belém, Brazil is no accident.

COP30 is the first UN climate summit hosted in the Amazon, the world’s largest tropical rainforest and a living testament to Indigenous Peoples’ stewardship.

From the Andes to the lowland rivers, delegations arrived by boat after a symbolic journey to call for territorial defense and an end to extractive expansion.

Their message is clear: without recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ land rights and knowledge systems, the global effort to stabilize the climate will fail.

Indigenous Peoples are on the frontlines of climate change and of climate policy’s blind spots. In Latin America, violence against those who protect forests and waters remains rampant.

These are not isolated tragedies but part of a pattern linked to logging, mining, and

agribusiness expansion across contested territories.

Across the Pacific, Asia’s Indigenous Peoples movements are organized and vocal through the Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact, a regional federation founded in 1992 that links 46 member organizations from 14 countries to defend land, culture, and self-determination. AIPP’s work spans human rights advocacy, women’s leadership, and environmental governance, exactly the intersections the climate crisis demands.

Without recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ land rights and knowledge systems, the global effort to stabilize the climate will fail

The Philippines offers both warning and hope. Home to diverse Indigenous Peoples nations such as the Kankanaey and Ifugao in the Cordillera and the Lumad in Mindanao, communities face intensified typhoons, floods, and landslides, with displacement measured in the millions in recent years.

Yet Indigenous Peoples–led rainforestation and watershed restoration projects show how ancestral practices can reduce flooding and rebuild ecosystems when

EDITORIAL

Guarding peace from those who prey on it

THE

right to peaceably assemble and express dissent is sacred in any democracy.

This is elevated in Article III of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, which guarantees fundamental human rights and protects citizens from government abuse, equal protection under the law, freedom of speech, press, and assembly, and the right to due process.

Filipinos have always turned to prayer and public gatherings to voice their hopes, frustrations, and calls for reform.

The three-day peace rallies planned by the Iglesia ni Cristo starting Sunday and by other groups on Nov. 30 fall within that shining tradition of an appeal for unity, moral renewal, and integrity in governance.

While we affirm the right to peaceful protest, the nation must be vigilant against those who would hijack these assemblies for darker ends.

History teaches that legitimate calls for change can be manipulated by opportunists – especially adventurists with past military record who have since disregarded accepted standards of behavior and, used in political contest, rash or reckless actions while glowing in the noisy rallies they have joined.

The country has seen this move in

decades past when restive elements in uniform, with their civilian collaborators, exploited unrest to justify extraConstitutional shortcuts.

The result has always been the same –-economic paralysis, political instability, and the erosion of hard-won freedoms.

Armed Forces chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. has described these anticorruption rallies “as a vibrant exercise of democracy, not a threat to it...a proFilipino expression of democracy -- a sign of a healthy republic where dissent strengthens, not weakens, freedom.”

We salute our soldiers who remain loyal to the flag

By standing firm, the AFP has shown it is not just a force with arms, but a force with principle – disciplined, professional and resolutely loyal to the Constitution and the Republic. Let it be clear: destabilization, by coup or any unconstitutional means, is no cure for corruption or inefficiency. It merely replaces one form of imperfection with another, usually worse. Investors flee, jobs disappear, and ordinary Filipinos bear the heaviest burden of uncertainty.

The military, Constitutionally man-

New Epstein emails claim

WASHINGTON, DC – Jeffrey Epstein suggested Donald Trump knew about the disgraced financier’s abuse and “spent hours” with one of the victims at his house, according to emails released by Democrats Wednesday that raised awkward new questions for the US president.

Trump has repeatedly denied any knowledge of the sex-trafficking activities of his former friend -- who died by suicide in 2019 while in prison awaiting trial -- and accused Democrats of trying to “deflect” from their own failings.

But the scandal has proved tough for Trump to shake, and Democrats on the House Oversight Committee said the three new emails “raise serious questions about Donald Trump and his knowledge of Epstein’s horrific crimes.”

The pressure on Trump grew later Wednesday, when Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said he would hold a vote next week on a bid to force the Justice Department to release the remaining Epstein files.

In an April 2011 message to longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein asserts Trump spent significant time with a woman whom the White House later identified as Epstein’s main accuser, Virgina Giuffre.

“I want you to realize that that dog that hasn’t barked is Trump,” wrote Epstein. He added that the victim “spent hours at my house with him ,, he has never once been mentioned.”

Maxwell, who was convicted of sex trafficking after Epstein’s death, replied: “I have been thinking about that...”

‘Of course he knew’

In another email to the author Michael Wolff, dated January 31, 2019, Epstein alleg-

supported.

Policies that respect ancestral domains and include Indigenous Peoples’ governance can turn these bright spots into national strategy.

In Africa, climate injustice is stark.

The Ogiek Peoples of Kenya’s Mau Forest, renowned forest guardians, have endured cycles of drought and flood along with evictions that rights bodies have condemned.

Their situation reveals how conservation and carbon schemes can reproduce colonial exclusions unless land rights and free, prior, and informed consent are guaranteed.

North America’s Arctic tells another frontline story.

Yup’ik and other Alaska Native Indigenous Peoples villages are relocating as permafrost thaws and coastlines erode.

The village of Nunapitchuk recently voted to move to higher ground, but the gap between needs and funding shows how even wealthy nations have not built just pathways for climate displacement that are community-led.

dated to protect the state, suffers deep institutional wounds when factions turn against civilian authority. There is nothing wrong with condemning wrongdoing, praying for national unity, or demanding accountability.

These are signs of a healthy democracy. But the moment such calls become tools for power-grabbing, they cease to be patriotic.

They become acts of betrayal to the Constitution, to the people, and to the republic that generations of Filipinos have built and defended.

The times call not for adventurism, but for steadiness.

Not for intrigue, but for faith in our democratic institutions to cleanse themselves.

We salute our soldiers who remain loyal to the flag. Let our churches remain faithful to peace.

And let our countrymen remember that genuine reform can never be achieved through the barrel of a gun.

Gen. Brawner aptly said: “The true strength of a military is not measured by its weapons, but by its loyalty to the people it serves.” By standing firm, the AFP has shown that it is not just a force with arms, but a force with principle – disciplined, professional, and resolutely loyal to the Constitution and the Republic.

Trump ‘knew about the girls’

edly wrote: “of course he knew about the girls as he asked Ghislaine to stop.”

Republicans later released a trove of thousands of emails, obtained after Democrats subpoenaed Epstein’s estate earlier this year, including one in which Epstein called Trump “dirty.”

The Epstein furor is still roiling Trump’s administration more than four months after his Justice Department sought to close the case. Keen to capitalize on the simmering controversy, Democrats in the House have been trying to force a vote that would compel publication of the full Epstein case files.

—“—

The Epstein scandal has dogged Trump for months, after his Justice Department in a July memo reaffirmed he died by suicide

Trump urged Republicans not to fall into a “trap,” and top officials hosted hard-right Republican Lauren Boebert in the White House Situation Room to push her to keep her name off the petition.

“The Democrats are trying to bring up the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax again because they’ll do anything at all to deflect on how badly they’ve done,” Trump said on Truth Social.

In Europe, the energy transition is also testing commitments to Indigenous Peoples’ rights. Norway’s landmark Fosen case, in which the Supreme Court found two wind farms violated Sámi Peoples’ cultural rights, led to years of protest and negotiation.

A 2024 settlement sought to protect reindeer herding while keeping turbines running, and regulators have since rejected new projects that would harm Sámi culture.

The lesson is clear: climate solutions cannot trample Indigenous Peoples’ lifeways. All of this is why COP30 can be a watershed moment. Holding the summit in the Amazon makes Indigenous Peoples’ leadership impossible to ignore, both geographically and morally.

It comes amid a rising global chorus linking land rights to emissions reductions and biodiversity gains, and against the grim backdrop of mounting attacks on defenders. Negotiators in Belém have a chance to

But Boebert refused to back down, and the petition passed when Democratic congresswoman Adelita Grijalva was sworn-in after weeks of delay and immediately signed the petition. Johnson said the House vote on the files would take place next week, earlier than expected, as Republicans try to put the issue behind them.

MAGA base furious

The White House went into fightback mode, accusing Democrats of selectively leaking the messages to “create a fake narrative to smear President Trump.” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that Virginia Giuffre, who herself died by suicide in April, had declared that Trump “’couldn’t have been friendlier’ to her in their limited interactions.”

The Epstein scandal has dogged Trump for months, after his Justice Department in a July memo reaffirmed he died by suicide, and that a “client list” Attorney General Pam Bondi claimed to have been reviewing did not in fact exist. It sparked a furious backlash from Trump’s “MAGA” support base, who felt betrayed after being told for years that a “deep state” cover-up was protecting figures in the Democratic Party whom they accused of being Epstein’s clients. Trump’s MAGA lieutenants -- including two allies who now run the FBI -- made careers of fanning the conspiracy theories, including that Epstein’s suicide was actually a murder ordered by his powerful clients.

Trump’s ties to Epstein are extensive. The pair were pictured partying together during a 15-year friendship before they reportedly fell out in 2004 over a property deal, and when Trump subsequently denounced his former ally. AFP

shift not just targets but power, by embedding three commitments into every agreement and finance mechanism.

First, secure land and water tenure for Indigenous Peoples and local communities, with direct finance to their institutions.

Second, guarantee full and meaningful participation at every stage of climate decision-making, from design to monitoring.

Third, protect defenders with transparent accountability for corporate and state actors tied to climate funds and supply chains.

The protests at the gates today are not a sideshow; they are the climate movement’s compass. Indigenous Peoples have kept carbon in the ground and life in balance not for a decade but for millennia.

If COP30 treats that leadership as central rather than symbolic, Belém could mark the moment the world finally understood that climate justice and justice for Indigenous Peoples are the same fight. Facebook, X, Instagram, and BlueSky: tonylavs Website: tonylavina.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2025 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

IN BRIEF

US jury: Boeing owes $28-m to victim’s family

CHICAGO – A US jury in the first civil trial over a fatal Boeing 737 MAX crash determined Wednesday that the aircraft manufacturing giant owes $28.45 million to the family of a newly-wed Indian victim.

The case involves the survivors of Shikha Garg of New Delhi, who died in the March 2019 Ethiopian Airlines crash, one of two fatal MAX crashes that together claimed 346 lives. After about two hours of deliberation, a jury in federal court in Chicago returned with an award that included $10 million for grief, $10 million for Garg’s pain and suffering, and other compensation.

“We happily accept the verdict. We came here for a jury trial and it’s absolutely acceptable,” Garg’s widower, Soumya Bhattacharya, told AFP. Boeing expressed regret about the deadly accidents.

“We are deeply sorry to all who lost loved ones on Lion Air Flight 610 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302,” a Boeing spokesperson said. AFP

Judge orders release of arrested migrants

WASHINGTON, DC – A federal judge on Wednesday (Thursday Manila time) ordered the release on bond of hundreds of undocumented migrants arrested in Chicago in the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.

District Judge Jeffrey Cummings ordered the release of detainees who are not considered security risks while they await the outcome of their immigration proceedings.

The judge’s order applies to migrants who were subject to warrantless arrests that took place without probable cause, according to the Chicago Tribune.

The newspaper said the judge would allow detainees to be released on $1,500 bond with some form of monitoring, including electronic ankle bracelets.

The detainees were among thousands of migrants arrested during immigration raids in the Chicago area dubbed “Operation Midway Blitz.” Many of those taken into custody have already been deported or agreed to leave the country voluntarily. AFP

South Korea halts flights for entry exam

SEOUL – Flights are temporarily halted, the stock market will trade an hour later and parents are packing shrines for prayers -- it can only be college entry exam day for South Korean students. The college entry exam, known locally as the “Suneung”, is essential for admission to top universities and widely regarded as a gateway to social mobility, economic security and even a good marriage. With so much at stake, the South Korean government is taking no chances as anxious-looking students bid farewell to their parents on what many consider to be the most important day of their teenage lives. A 35-minute nationwide ban on flights has been imposed during the English listening test, except in emergencies, while banks and public offices told their workers to start an hour later to avoid traffic on the roads. AFP

French

writers sue TikTok over copyright

Bangladesh verdict in ex-PM Sheikh Hasina trial on Nov. 17

DHAKA – Bangladeshi judges will issue

the hugely anticipated verdict in the crimes against humanity trial of fugitive former prime minister Sheikh Hasina on Nov. 17, the chief prosecutor said Thursday.

Hasina, 78, has defied court orders to return from India to attend her trial on charges of ordering a deadly crackdown in a failed attempt to suppress a student-

led uprising that saw her removal.

“Justice will be served according to the law,” chief prosecutor Tajul Islam told reporters.

“We have completed a long journey and are now in its final phase. The court will pronounce the verdict on the 17th.”

Hasina’s trial in absentia, which began on June 1, heard months of testimony al-

leging she ordered mass killings.

According to the United Nations, up to 1,400 people were killed between July and August 2024 in her failed bid to hold on to power.

Prosecutors have filed five charges, including failure to prevent murder, amounting to crimes against humanity under Bangladeshi law. They have sought

has it removed the works we asked it to,” the SACD said in a statement sent to AFP. It cited the use of dialogue or extracts from leading French films such as “Asterix and Obelix” or cult comedy “Brice de Nice”, as well as animated series and comedy sketches. After four years of fruitless discussions, the SADC said it was seeking “redress for the losses suffered by the authors of the works exploited or performed on the platform”. It also called on TikTok to be transparent

the death penalty if she is found guilty.

“We hope the court will exercise its prudence and wisdom, that the thirst for justice will be fulfilled, and that this verdict will mark an end to crimes against humanity,” Islam added.

Hasina has denied all the charges and called her trial a “jurisprudential joke”. AFP

43-day US shutdown ends as political fallout begins W

G7 calls for urgent immediate Ukraine truce

NIAGARA-ON-THE LAKE – G7 foreign ministers on Wednesday (Thursday Manila tim e) called for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine and raised the alarm about the escalating crisis in Sudan, as they wrapped up a meeting in Canada.

In a joint statement, the top diplomats from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States voiced “unwavering support” for Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

“An immediate ceasefire is urgently needed,” the Group of Seven said.

At the talks near the famed Niagara Falls, G7 leaders discussed various options to bolster funding for Ukraine’s ef-

forts against Russia’s invasion.

The statement said the scenarios discussed included “further leveraging immobilized Russian sovereign assets” held across different G7 jurisdictions -- a complex strategy that has been debated intensively within the European Union.

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha -- who was invited to the talks -- had earlier told reporters that the G7 needed to increase pressure on Russia’s Vladimir Putin while reinforcing Ukraine’s war-making capacity.

“Putin still has an illusion that he can win,” Sybiha said.

“In reality, he has lost over one million

France marks decade of worst Paris attacks which killed 130

PARIS – France on Thursday marks a decade since suffering its worst attack, with the only surviving assailant jailed for life and plans for a long-term memorial.

Jihadists killed 130 people in shootings and suicide bombings in and around Paris on the night of Nov. 13, 2015, with the Islamic State group claiming responsibility.

The attackers killed around 90 people at the Bataclan concert hall, where the US band Eagles of Death Metal was playing.

They ended the lives of dozens more at Parisian restaurants and cafes, and one person near the Stade de France football stadium just outside the capital, where crowds were watching France play Germany.

President Emmanuel Macron is expected to visit all sites of the attacks, before presiding over a remembrance ceremony at a memorial garden in central Paris.

The sole surviving member of the

10-person jihadist cell that staged the attacks, 36-year-old Salah Abdeslam, is serving life in jail, after nine fellow attackers blew themselves up or were killed by police.

“France over these years has been able to stand united and overcome it all,” Francois Hollande, who was president at the time, told AFP in a recent interview.

Hollande was in the crowd at the football stadium when the attacks erupted. He was whisked out of the audience before reappearing on national television later that night, describing what had happened as a “horror”.

He declared France “at war” with the jihadists and their self-proclaimed caliphate, then straddling Syria and Iraq.

Hollande testified at the 148-day trial that led to Abdeslam being jailed for life in 2022. AFP

soldiers and has not achieved a single strategic goal...We must make the cost of continuing this war unbearable and dangerous for Putin personally and his regime,” he added.

Earlier Wednesday, Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand announced new sanctions on entities that Canada says are used to launch cyberattacks on Ukraine.

Vessels that are part of Russia’s socalled shadow fleet -- ships allegedly used to transport Russian oil in defiance of global sanctions -- were also targeted.

“Canada will continue to ensure that Russia’s actions do not go unpunished,” Anand told reporters. AFP

ASHINGTON, DC – Congress on Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time) ended the longest government shutdown in US history -- 43 days that paralyzed Washington and left hundreds of thousands of workers unpaid while Donald Trump’s Republicans and Democrats played a highstakes blame game.

The Republican-led House of Representatives voted largely along party lines to approve a Senate-passed package that will reopen federal departments and agencies, as many Democrats fume over what they see as a capitulation by party leaders.

“They knew that it would cause pain, and they did it anyway,” House Speaker Mike Johnson said in a withering floor speech before the vote, pointing the finger for the standoff at the minority party.

“The whole exercise was pointless. It was wrong and it was cruel.”

The package -- which Trump is scheduled to sign later Wednesday evening -- funds military construction, veterans’ affairs, the Department of Agriculture and Congress itself through next fall, and the rest of government through the end of January.

Around 670,000 furloughed civil servants will report back to work, and a similar number who were kept at their posts with no compensation -- including more than 60,000 air traffic controllers and airport security staff -- will get back pay. The deal also restores federal workers fired by Trump during the shutdown, while air travel that has been disrupted across the country will gradually return to normal.

The White House said the president planned to sign the bill in an Oval Office ceremony at 9:45 pm (0245 GMT).

Trump himself had little to say on the vote, although he took to social media to falsely accuse Democrats of having “cost our Country $1.5 Trillion... with their recent antics of viciously closing our Country.” The full financial toll of the shutdown has yet to be determined, although the Congressional Budget Office estimates that it has caused $14 billion in lost growth. AFP

9 DE JULIO, Argentina – Parts of the Argentine Pampas, a vast expanse of flat grasslands, look more like wetlands these days following record rains, with local farmers warning of a “catastrophic” impact to their livelihoods.

An unusual downpour in March, followed by more rains since then, turned the usually temperate region’s rural roads into canals, drowned crops and left cows stranded, searching hopelessly for pasture in the mud. With drainage infrastructure unable to cope, some five million hectares -- an area larger than Denmark -- now stand under water, transforming one of the world’s most productive agricultural areas into a patchwork of lagoons.

Scientists say climate change likely played a role in the freak rains, and for a severe drought that preceded it. Locals insist the situation was made infinitely worse by a backlog in road, ca-

nal and drainage works.

Cattle rancher Luciano Macaroni from the hard-hit municipality of 9 de Julio -named after the Argentine Independence Day and some 300 kilometers (186 miles) west of Buenos Aires -- doesn’t dwell too much on the cause, just the effect.

“In March, we had to move to town

CHART-BUSTER. US President Donald Trump signs the bill package to re-open the federal government in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on Thursday, Manila time. Congress ended the longest government shutdown in

JUSTICE? This photograph shows Thursday the Eiffel Tower

in the colors of the French national flag to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the 2015 Paris terror attacks, in Paris. France marks a decade since suffering its worst attack

Juicy hole-in-1 prizes at stake in Samahang Plaridel Golf ‘25

A GWM Cannon LUX pickup, a Jetour Ice Cream EV, an Aprilia SRGT Scooter, and P100,000 cash will be at stake as hole-in-one prizes in the 9th edition of the Samahang Plaridel Golf 2025 on Wednesday, Nov. 26 at the Villamor Golf Course in Pasay City.

The annual golf tournament presented by Eight Plus, PAGCOR, Metro Pacific Investment Corp. Sen. Chiz Escudero, former Sen. Manny Pacquiao, Presidential Communications Office and Philippine Sports Commission, is part of the fund-raising activities of the Association of Philippine Journalists-Samahang Plaridel, headed its president Evelyn Quiroz.

The brand new GWM Cannon LUX, one of the top pickups in the market today, is sponsored by Luxuriant Marketing Inc. president Ruben Tan while the hot-selling Jetour Ice Cream EV is being given away by Jetour Auto Philippines Inc., headed by its president Lito Jose.

The Aprilia SRGT Scooter, a handsome bike for urban commuting and ready for adventures out of town, is offered by Autohub Group of Companies headed by president WillyTee-Ten.

The Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines (JGFP), headed by Oliver Gan, is sponsoring the P100,000 cash.

These valuable prizes will be up for grabs for all the participants in the Nov. 26 tournament also supported by Sprinto, Go for Gold, Action Lab, Terp Asia Construction, UNILAB, Cong. Rolando Macasaet, Cong. Romeo Acop, ICTSI, Honda Cars Phils., Inc., Security Bank, Isuzu, DBP, Monde Nissin, Meralco, Sen. Gatchalian, Jollibee, G-Cash, Kapihan sa Radyo, Voxpori Capital Pvt. Ltd. and One Chess Movement.

Registration is still ongoing while Samahang Plaridel is still accepting sponsors. For inquiries, call or text Ms. Nelly Lumbaca of Samahang Plaridel at mobile +639667812422.

Philippine Cup game won by the Beermen, 158-117, at the Ynares Center in Montalban on Wednesday. PBA MEDIA

Los Angeles ‘28 Olympic Games schedule revealed

LOS ANGELES—The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics competition schedule was unveiled on Wednesday by organizers, including a showcase spot for the women’s 100 meters and a Super Saturday session.

LA28 revealed a detailed schedule earlier than usual. It starts with the opening ceremony on July 14 and ends with the closing ceremony on July 30.

The biggest-ever Games will feature 11,200 athletes in 51 sports across 49 venues.

Every team sport will feature an equal or greater number of women’s teams compared to men’s teams for the first time with 50.5 percent of total athletes being women. On day one, July 15, the most wom-

en’s finals ever held on one day will be contested, starting with women’s triathlon with a spotlight on the women’s 100 meters.

“We want to come out in these Games with a bang. We want to start day one with a showcase of the fastest females in the world,” LA28 chief of sport Shana Ferguson said.

Doing so will mean women must run three 100m heats in one day.

“We did speak at length with athletes. It was a largely positive conversa-

NU guards against complacency, keeps eyes on prize

NATIONAL University is just three set wins away from completing a four-peat in the 2025 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Preseason Unity Cup.

After drawing first blood in the best-of-three finals series against a dangerous and gritty University of Santo Tomas last week, the Lady Bulldogs go for the jugular on Saturday in Game 2 at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

But shooting for a sweep in the league’s centerpiece tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner and R and B Milk Tea is easier said than done.

In fact, the still unbeaten NU barely escaped the claws of the Tigresses in a 15-25, 25-23, 25-17, 13-25, 15-12, nailbiter in the series opener at the same historic venue.

The Lady Bulldogs dug deep inside their bag of championship experience to stay composed after trailing by two points late in the deciding frame before uncorking a 5-0 closing barrage to stun UST for their ninth win in as many games.

NU, which also aims for a second straight season sweep following its earlier flawless conquest of the National Invitationals Davao Leg, expects the wounded Tigresses to be more aggressive in the pivotal second meeting.

So, keeping their guard up against UST is a must for the Lady Bulldogs to replicate their domination of the same opponent in the finals of the 2023 edition.

Nanalo kami sa Game 1 pero di kami puwedeng magrelax. Magpapahinga kami pero ‘yung magre-relax na tala-

IT seems that Anton Del Rosario, the former Azkal and the force behind 7-aside football in the country and in the region as well, has joined the growing clamor for accountability, transparency and more when it comes to our favorite national sporting association.

In a post on his social media account, Del Rosario raised several points, including how the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) uses the millions of funds it received from the Philippine Sports Commission and “the integrity of its financial operations.” He also mentioned that there is no promotional material (on the country’s hosting of the first-ever FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup set to start in a few days), delayed approval of funds, and even hearing stories of funds being coursed through shell companies.

“Not sure what to believe, but looking more and more like a ‘Flood Control’ situation,” Del Rosario posted. But what really takes the cake is when Del Rosario stressed the need that football players and the fans deserve better.

Knowing how many politicians, DPWH personnel, contractors and even their kin are so sensitive when it comes to allegations of corruption, it is expected

that the PFF will take no exception to Del Rosario’s post. The PFF came up with an initial statement on its website. Probably because allegations in social media are best addressed through a post in social media, too.

The initial statement lasted only several minutes before it was taken down and replaced with another one. It was basically the same but some revisions were done in the last paragraph.

In the original, the PFF maintained its “unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and the proper stewardship of public sources.” The PFF also reiterated that it “strictly observes all government regulations, auditing procedures and auditing procedures and internal controls that every peso is properly allocated, disbursed and documented in accordance with law and sound financial standards.”

The last paragraph of the statement also stated that “Finally, PFF reserves the right to consider all legal remedies available under Philippine Law and FIFA or PFF regulations to appropriately address and respond to baseless and defamatory allegations made against PFF, its officers, and its partners.”

Sorry Anton, no mention of players, coaching and team staff.

In the revised statement, it was almost the same except in the the last paragraph

which was edited into “Baseless allegations demean the dedication of athletes, coaches and staff who work tirelessly to advance the sport, the PFF reserves the right to pursue legal remedies under Philippine law and applicable regulations to protect the integrity of the institution and its stakeholders.”

See the big difference? Sorry folks, it is not Caloy Loyzaga.

One friend joked that the PFF also reserves the right to take down and edit earlier statements.

Del Rosario posted some sort of a rejoinder after the PFF made and edited its statement. Del Rosario said that his comments were made in good faith, without malice, motivated only by a desire to see greater clarity and integrity in how football is managed and supported.

“It is never wrong for members of the football community to ask questions or to call for transparency when public resources and the future of the game are at stake,” Del Rosario said in a statement.

Del Rosario likewise encouraged everyone who loves football to continue standing for accountability, fairness, honesty and how public funds are being used. Del Rosario, who played 47 games in a 14-year stint with the national team, added that he “trusts that the PFF, with its commitment to openness, will welcome genuine discussion and ensure that football continues to

tion,” Janet Evans, LA28 chief athlete officer, said.

“We’re kicking off the athletic competition with one of the marquee events for women athletes.

“When we presented it to the athletes that way, there was excitement. They said let me know early and I’ll train to run three 100s in one day.”

Athletics will for the first time in history span the entire Games, with World Athletics president Sebastian Coe describing the schedule as “both innovative but also honours tradition”.

World and Olympic medallist Sha’Carri Richardson remarked: “Track and field is having its moment, and the road to LA28 is about to be something special, especially for the women’s sprints.”

The American, who won women’s 4x100 relay gold and silver in the 100m in Paris last year, added: “The talent, energy, and competition - it’s all going to shine. Just look at day one of the LA Games.” Organizers flipped swimming and athletics from the traditional schedule so the opening ceremony venue, SoFi Stadium, could also host swimming in the second week. AFP

Super Spikers, Spin Doctors, Golden Spikers eye semis push

CIGNAL and Savouge Aesthetics collide in a crucial showdown for the second semifinal berth in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, while UST-Gameville aims to continue its giant-killing spree against unbeaten Criss Cross today (Friday) at the Paco Arena in Manila. Tied at 4-2, the Super Spikers and the Spin Doctors enter their 5 p.m. duel in a deadlock, each desperate to secure the coveted spot in the next phase of the tournament, with only two playdates left in the single-round preliminaries. Their clash promises another highpowered and emotional battle, a fitting highlight in the four-match bill featuring semis hopefuls and those clinging to their last chances at making the Final Four.

A loss for either Cignal or Savouge could prove costly, as Alpha Insurance (2-3) lurks close behind and is capable of stealing the last semis ticket should it sweep its last two outings in the tournament organized by Sports Vision and supported by Alpha In-

move forward with integrity and unity where lacking.”

While The Designated Kit Man would like to share Del Rosario’s optimism and faith with the PFF, I simply can’t. But I will always believe in Philippine football, that someday, somehow the sport will receive the support and recognition that it rightfully deserves, that all our national teams – whether the team formerly known as the Azkals, the Filipinas, Filipina5 or the youth squads – will get what they need to succeed and improve.

Going back to the flood control mess, the Designated Kit Man hopes that we will see the filing of charges against those, who robbed our people of their money, hope, lives and faith in the government will be put behind bars soon.

Ilang bagyo na at baha na ang dumaan, wala pa rin nakukulong!

But then again, just like what is happening in our favorite sport, expectation is an altogether different matter compared to what is reality. On a more positive side, congratulations are in order to former Azkal and current One Taguig FC superstar Patrick Reichelt, who will be making his comeback to the Philippine Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT), but in a different capacity.

Kiki has been invited to join the PMNFT as assistant team manager and will also serve as team spokesperson as the Philippines face Maldives in the resumption of

surance, Premiere EMS, Buffalo’s Wings N’ Things and Arena Plus. “Sabi ko sa kanila ilalaban namin kasi iisa lang naman ang goal eh. Lagi kong nireremind sa team ko isang word lang – ano ba ang goal? Ang word lang nila ay ‘semis,’ so kapag ganon kailangan namin paghirapan,” said Savouge head coach Sydney Calderon, underscoring the team’s all-or-nothing mindset. Meanwhile, UST-Gameville (4-1) hopes to sustain its momentum after a stunning upset of Cignal last Wednesday. But the Golden Spikers face a tough challenge in the 1 p.m. opener against the unbeaten Criss Cross King Crunchers (50) – the first team to clinch a semis berth.

the Asian Cup qualifiers. Kiki said he is obviously very happy to be back with the team and although the invite happened so fast, it was no brainer on his part.

“I think I can have a lot of meaningful input in my new position and I’m looking forward to a successful camp in Dubai and the Maldives,” Reichelt said. He is also very grateful to his mother club for allowing him to join the national team. Joining Reichelt on the comeback trail to the three stars and the sun is One Taguig FC’s goalkeeping coach and Azkal OG Ed Sacapano, who will mentor Kevin Mendoza, Quincy Kammerad and Nicholas Guimaraes in the away game on November 18 at the Maldives National Football Stadium in Male. Joining the trio are defenders Amani Aguinaldo, Josef Baccay, Noah Leddel, Kike Linares, Jeff and Paul Tabinas, and Scott Woods. The midfielders include Oskari Kekkonen, John Lucero, Gavin Muens, Manny Ott, Sandro Reyes and Randy Schneider. Rounding up the men’s squad are forwards Dylan Demuynck, Jarvey Gayoso, Bjorn Kristensen, Andre Leipold, Alex Monis and Sebastian Rasmussen. Stay safe. Stay happy peeps! For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_ cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @erelcabatbat

The Lady Bulldogs celebrate. Roman Prospero gang kampante ‘di puwede ‘yun kasi di pa naman tapos,” NU prized rookie Sam Cantada said. The high-flying power-hitter and Alas Pilipinas U18 star is also on the brink of achieving a rare feat of winning a triple crown.

The Designated Kit Man Erel Cabatbat

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2025

RIERA

RANDY M.

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Cignal

turns back ZUS Co ee to bolster drive

CIGNAL showcased its flair for toppling previously unbeaten opponents, stunning ZUS Coffee, 25-12, 26-24, 25-23, to strengthen its quarterfinal bid in the PVL Reinforced Conference at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Thursday.

It was a statement victory for the Super Spikers, who drew strength from a balanced, composed attack and a renewed sense of urgency in the final stretch of the eliminations.

Erika Santos rose to the occasion with a 19-point explosion built on 13 attacks, three aces, and three blocks –none more crucial than her final two points that shattered a tense 23-all count in the third set. Her final rejection on Chinnie Arroyo sealed the onehour, 21-minute sweep and punctuated Cignal’s rise from the middle of the standings into solo fifth at 4-3.

“Siguro na-apply lang namin ‘yung mga ginawa namin sa training,” said Santos, who credited the team’s consistency and focus for their breakthrough. “Ang mindset namin ay wala nang atrasan kasi ‘yung remaining games namin are crucial for us ngayon na nasa baba kami.”

Her poise during the closing moments of the last two sets underscored how Cignal has grown more comfortable under pressure – something that had eluded them earlier in the conference.

“Sobrang nakaka-proud ang team kasi talaga namang pinag-hirapan nila,” said Cignal coach Shaq delos Santos, commending his wards’ gritty performance.

“Sobrang saya ko dahil ‘yun talaga ang goal namin, pero ang maganda kasi, mas nag-focus kami sa proseso at kung paano namin maisasagawa nang tama.”

While import Anna DeBeer tried to rally the Thunderbelles with a fiery 26-point performance, it was Cignal’s locals who dictated the tempo. Vanie Gandler came alive in the third set to deliver key blows, while Roselyn Aquino and Jackie Acuña chipped in six points apiece.

But it was Cignal’s net defense that truly set the tone. The Super Spikers recorded a staggering nine kill blocks compared to ZUS Coffee’s lone rejection, repeatedly shutting down DeBeer’s trademark crosscourt rockets.

Altas attempt to bounce back vs. Cardinals

By Dennis Abrina

LEAGUE leader Perpetual Help tries to bounce back when it faces defending champion Mapua in the continuation of the #NCAASeason101 men’s basketball tournament on Friday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City. Coach Olsen Racela’s Altas, who are still at the top of the charts with an 8-2 record, will face the Intramuros-based squad at 2:30 p.m. after St. Benilde and Letran clash at 12 noon. Patrick Sleat led the way for Perpetual, scoring 11 points on top of 5 rebounds, 4 assists and a block in 25 minutes of play in a one-point, 61-62 loss to the San Sebastian Stags on November 8. In the first meeting against Mapua, Perpetual won by as much as 10 points, 75-65, with John Paul Boral finishing with 25 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists in 23 minutes of play, while LA Casinillo, Sleat and Mark Derick Gojo Cruz also scored in double digits—13, 12, 12 points— respectively

The Altas hope to get the win to seal their entry into the quarterfinals in Group

A and gain the twice-to-beat advantage in the tournament.

celebrate a point against the Thunderbelles in a PVL Reinforced Conference game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Thursday.

Mangubat sets sights on SEAG gold after world feat

By Randy M. Caluag

AFTER finally clinching his first world jiu-jitsu gold medal, Myron Myles Mangubat is setting his sights on an even more meaningful goal — a stronger comeback at the Southeast Asian Games next month, where he hopes to surpass his bronze finish from Cambodia two years ago.

Mangubat reached a career milestone after ruling the M aster 1 male -62kg division at the 2025 World Jiu-Jitsu Masters Championships in Bangkok, Thailand — his first-ever world title after 15 years of competing.

With the SEA Games also taking place in Bangkok next month, the 35-year-old national athlete

from Pampanga sees his recent triumph as both momentum and motivation.

“Iniisip ko preparation din ‘to for SEA Games, and hopefully Asian Games din next year,” said Mangubat, who also serves as an instructor at Carpe Diem Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Manila, in an interview with Radyo Pilipinas 2. But beyond personal achievement, Mangubat said his biggest motivation is to inspire others — especially his students.

“Higit sa lahat, gusto ko ring maging inspirasyon sa mga students namin — ‘yun talaga ‘yung biggest thing for me,” he shared.

Achieving the world title was a dream long in the making.

“Since nag-start akong mag-jiu-jitsu, isa na ‘yun sa dream ko — ang maging world champion. Parang nakasulat talaga ‘yun sa goals ko. Ngayon, after 15 years of competing, na-achieve ko na sa wakas.”

It took Mangubat five world championship campaigns to finally stand atop the podium — turning years of frustration, injuries, and perseverance into triumph.

Que eyes first OOM crown at ICTSI Valley Challenge

WITH his first Philippine Golf Tour Order of Merit crown finally within reach, veteran campaigner Angelo Que is leaving nothing to chance as he spearheads a star-studded field in the ICTSI Valley Golf Challenge, which fires off Tuesday (Nov. 18) at the Valley Golf Club’s South Course in Antipolo.

For a man of his stature, the multi-titled Que has long been a mainstay atop Philippine golf’s elite ranks – a three-time Asian Tour champion, a former Philippine Open titlist, and a perennial contender in every local tournament he joins. Yet, a PGT OOM title – a season-long badge of consistency and dominance – has remained elusive.

That could finally change this week.

After nine legs in a tightly contested season, Que sits on top of the OOM ladder with ₱1,560,916 in earnings, built on two victories and two runner-up finishes. It’s been a masterclass in form, patience and perseverance – proof that even after more than two decades as a touring pro, Que’s competitive fire burns as fiercely as ever.

Que’s closest pursuer, Keanu Jahns, also boasts two victories but trails slightly with ₱1,484,183. However, with Jahns opting to skip the season-ending Valley stop for a family vacation in Japan, Que will have a clearer path to the top – though he still needs a solid showing to officially clinch the crown.

Hot on their heels is Fidel Concepcion, whose breakthrough triumph at the P3.5 million Apo Golf Classic boosted him to third with ₱1,250,083 in winnings. He remains the only player with a realistic mathematical shot of overtaking Que – but only if the veteran falters this week.

Still, Que isn’t expected to play it safe. Known for his aggressive style and trademark composure, the 46-year-old shotmaker is eager to cap off his stellar season in the same fashion he began it – with another victory.

Behind Que and Concepcion, a pack of elite contenders will also be eyeing a triumphant finish to the PGT’s 2025 season. Guido Van der Valk, winner at Forest Hills, is at fourth with ₱1,194,116, while Reymon Jaraula, who reigned at home in Del Monte, rounds out the top five with ₱1,069,583.

They’ll be joined by a strong cast of leg winners and established names like Rupert Zaragosa, Clyde Mondilla, Tony Lascuña, Jhonnel Ababa, Zanieboy Gialon, Michael Bibat, Russell Bautista, Ira Alido, Nilo Salahog and Dino Villanueva, all looking to close the season on a high note.

Adding intrigue to the 72-hole championship organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. are rising stars Carl Corpus, Aidric Chan and Sean Ramos and veteran Justin Quiban, who are back in local action following international stints.

Angelo Que

PH curling squad shoots for Winter Olympic qualification

By Peter Atencio

A CHALLENGING experience awaits the Philippine national men’s curling team next month.

Coach Miggy Gutierrez said this as the Marc Pfister-led Team Philippines get ready for an Olympic Qualification 2025 event in Kelowna, British Columbia, in Canada from December 6 to 19.

“The guys are focusing right now on Olympic trials, so it will be a long month for us before we head to Kelowna for the event,” said Gutierrez.

The tournament serves as the final qualifying tournament for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Pfister’s crew earned their spot by winning the pre-qualifier event in Aberdeen, Scotland last October.

“Very challenging, as this may

be the hardest tournament this group has experienced even if they have played against stronger competition,” added Gutierrez. The top two teams from the meet at Kelowna will qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo. Joining Marc are Enrico Pfister, Christian Haller, Brayden Carpenter, and alternate Alan Frei. The team finished unbeaten in a pre-Olympic qualification event at the Curl Aberdeen in Scotland.

“The fact that this is the tournament that determines if our years of struggle is rewarded with heading to the Olympics does in ways affect them as their opponents,” added Gutierrez.

The Cignal Super Spikers, led by Vanie Gandler,

The Philippine men’s curling team

Myron Myles Mangubat

Perpetual Help coach Olsen Racela Dennis Abrina

Mayor Joy Belmonte delivers 7th State of the City Address

ANG QC, TUNAY NANG MAIPAGMAMALAKI

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte stood before city officials, employees, guests, and QCitizens at the M.I.C.E. Center last October 27 to deliver her 7th State of the City Address (SOCA)—a report filled with accomplishments, reforms, and a vision for a city that continues to lead with transparency, compassion, and innovation.

From the moment she took the stage, Belmonte spoke with candor and pride. “From the beginning, the imperative of our leadership was clear: to bring the city out of the shadows—and to serve as the light of our people,” she began, reminding the audience of the principles that guided her administration since 2019.

Now on her final term, Belmonte reflected on how far the city has come. “Today, Quezon City stands, not just as the largest and most populous city in the Philippines, but as a leader across many aspects of local governance,” she said. “We are a City of Firsts… a city that dares to reimagine the future—and to move towards the direction of our hopes.”

Financial Highlights and Economic Development

At the heart of Belmonte’s governance is fiscal prudence and inclusive growth. “Pinaghihirapan ng taumbayan ang buwis na bumubuhay sa ating lungsod, kaya tao ang sentro ng ating pamamahala,” she emphasized.

For 2025, Quezon City operated on a ₧41.3-billion budget, over half of which (54%) went to education, health, housing, and livelihood programs. The city’s proposed ₧43.3-billion budget for 2026 continues this commitment.

For five consecutive years, the Commission on Audit (COA) granted the city an Unqualified Opinion—a mark of financial integrity. This was complemented by a Hall of Fame recognition from the Department of Finance as the Top LGU in Local Source Revenues (2020–2024).

Belmonte credited this to disciplined tax collection and modernization. “Mas mabilis at seamless ang pagbabayad ng buwis dahil digitalized ang mga proseso natin sa Quezon City,” she said, citing the QC eServices platform that hosts 165 services across 34 online programs within it.

This digital transformation has made Quezon City the preferred destination for businesses, with nearly 77,000 registered establishments in 2025, translating to over 430,000 jobs. It also earned the city a Hall of Fame Award for being the Most Business-Friendly LGU from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The administration also invested ₧1.3 billion in MSME development since 2020, helping more than 120,000 individuals build small businesses.

Tourism and Cultural Growth

The city has unveiled a new tourism campaign “QC: More to Explore,” celebrating the city’s heritage and dynamism. With over 7,200 tourism-related establishments, Quezon City continues to expand its reputation beyond being the “City of Stars.”

Two new museums opened this year: Bahay Modernismo, which showcases post-war modern domestic life, and the Women’s Museum in Brgy. Tandang Sora, the country’s first, celebrating the “heroism, struggles, and triumphs of Filipino women.”

Quezon City also remains the home of the largest Pride celebration in Asia, drawing over 400,000 attendees, and hosts cultural events such as the QCinema International Film Festival, the Maginhawa Arts and Food Festival, and the Banawe Chinatown Chinese New Year.

Social Welfare

Social inclusivity remains a cornerstone of good governance. The city now has 360,000

“From the beginning, the imperative of our leadership was clear: To bring the city out of the shadows—and to serve as the light of our people.”

Health

Quezon City’s commitment to health is reflected in its ₧5-billion budget allocation for 2025. All city-run facilities provide free medical services—from checkups and immunizations to dental care and maternal health.

As a Universal Health Care Integration Site, more than 344,000 registered QCitizens are now eligible for YAKAP. The city continues to work closely with PhilHealth so that all QCitizens can be included, because as a YAKAP member, one can receive additional medical support.

The city also strengthened its mental health support through Helpline 122, which operates 24/7, and established Mental Wellness Access Hubs.

“Kaya sa ating mga QCitizens… sakaling kayo man ay may pinagdaanan… tumawag lang kayo, at handa kaming makinig,” she assured.

Quezon City is the first LGU to pass an Integrated Cancer Control Ordinance, making it part of the City Cancer Challenge, a global network providing research and technical assistance. The city intensified cancer screening, reaching 27,000 women for breast exams and 10,000 for cervical screening in 2025.

Education

Education remains one of Quezon City’s biggest investments, which comprises 15% of the city budget (₧6 billion)—meeting UNESCO standards. “To date, we have completed 458 infrastructure projects for our public schools.”

The Quezon City University (QCU) has grown from 7,000 to 12,000 students, with more than half being first-generation college graduates. Since its recognition by CHED in 2020, QCU has received ₧661 million from the CHED UniFAST, under the Free Higher Education Act.

The city also supports over 50,000 scholars from high school to postgraduate levels, with 15,000 graduates already completing their programs. Belmonte aims to increase this to 80,000 scholars before the end of her term.

In a major recognition, Quezon City earned the Seal of Good Education Governance this year. It was also named one of UNESCO’s 13 pilot Media and Information Literacy Cities.

Peace, Order, and Safety

The city earmarked ₧1.6 billion for peace and order in 2025, supporting the QCPD, barangay safety initiatives, and emergency response. “As per QCPD, crimes committed within the city in 2025 have gone down by 25% compared to last year,” Belmonte reported.

Housing and Infrastructure

Quezon City’s ₧5-billion housing budget aims to provide decent shelter to vulnerable families. Before the year ends, nearly 30,000 families have already received housing security through relocation, transition housing, and rental schemes.

The city’s flagship QCitizen Homes projects in Cambridge, Balingasa, and Urban Deca will soon accommodate over 1,000 families, while a partnership with Ayala Corporation will benefit 3,000 families.

Quezon City is becoming greener and more walkable. “30% of our land is open and green space. Our goal is to increase this by five percent by 2030,” Belmonte said.

Since 2019, 101 parks have been rehabilitated and 24 newly built, including Buenamar Park in Novaliches. The QC ReVibe program transformed areas like Tomas Morato and Litex, reclaiming sidewalks for pedestrians and improving safety through better lighting.

Environment and Climate Change

Belmonte reinforced Quezon City’s reputation as an environmental leader. “We pushed for solarization,” she said, noting that solar panels installed across city facilities will save ₧47 million annually and reduce fossil fuel dependence.

The city now operates eight fully electric buses under the Q City Bus Program, which has recorded 41 million free rides since 2020.

Plastic bans have also significantly cut waste. “Before, 156 kilos of PET bottles were collected monthly at the Quezon Memorial Circle; now, it’s just 1.5 kilos,” she said.

A City of Trust and Hope

As she concluded her address, Mayor Belmonte looked back on six transformative years of leadership—marked by results, recovery, and reform.

“Sometimes it feels like we have lived through several lifetimes over the past six years,” she reflected. “But we have proven that genuine change is possible when we muster the courage not only to be excellent but, more importantly, to be honest to the oath we have taken.”

Her message resonated deeply: “Saan ka man sa anim nating distrito, kasama ka sa pag-unlad. Bata man o matanda, anumang sektor o pinanggalingan—kasama ka sa pag-unlad.”

With that, the city that once stood in the shadows continues to shine brighter—a Quezon City that dares, listens, and leads. Tunay nang maipagmamalaki!

Together

Mayor Joy Belmonte

seniors to the youth.

Social services support senior citizens, PWDs, and indigent families.

Decent shelter is provided to vulnerable families.

QC hosts the largest Pride celebration in Asia.

CPF of Thailand investing $1b on PH expansion

By Othel V. Campos

CHAROEN Pokphand Foods Philippines Corp. (CPF) is investing $1 billion over the next five years to expand hog production and help restore the country’s swine population to pre–African Swine Fever (ASF) levels by 2028.

The Department of Agriculture welcomed the investment, saying the initiative aligns with President Marcos Jr.’s vision of a zero-kilometer food system.

“This CPF expansion aligns perfectly with President Marcos Jr.’s vision of producing food where it’s needed, and advancing agricultural investment to create jobs and ensure food security,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

He also encouraged CPF to consider situating some facilities near major tourist hubs to help ease food costs.

Based on the plan presented by CPF executive vice president Sakol Cheewakoset in a recent meeting with the DA, the company is evaluating nine sites nationwide for agro-industrial complexes, each spanning about 20 hectares.

Each complex will include feed production and hog processing facilities, with an estimated cost of $125 million per site. Feed plants are projected to produce 10,000 tons per month, requiring corn supply from roughly 5,000 hectares.

CPF said it aims to raise its hog production capacity from 1.3 million heads to 7 million by 2030. Of this, 4.8 million is expected to add to Luzon’s capacity, 1 million in the Visayasand 1.2 million in Mindanao.

Marcos vows to ramp up public spending in Q4

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday said the government will accelerate public spending in the fourth quarter to restore investor confidence and recover economic momentum lost due to recent downturns, including the impact of typhoons, global trade disruptions and climaterelated work stoppages.

Speaking at a press conference in Malacañang, Marcos said his administration is hastening government spending to stimulate economic activity and offset the losses incurred in the third quarter.

“Public spending will be increased to make sure that by the end of the year, the levels of public spending are according to our original plan,” Marcos said.

“We will recover what we lost in the third quarter,” he said.

Marcos acknowledged the recent economic slump, citing the peso’s fall to an all-time low, a slowdown in third-quarter gross domestic product growth to 4 percent and the Philippine Stock Exchange Index sliding to levels last seen during the pandemic.

“The reason that we had that is that there really was a downturn in economic activity,” Marcos said, noting that the issues are not only due to “the typhoons, the lost working days because of climate change.”

The government’s fiscal push includes fast-tracking infrastructure projects under the “Build Better More” program, alongside additional support for agriculture and climate resilience initiatives to boost domestic productivity.

MPIC signs non-disclosure agreement with PrimeWater

By Jenniffer B. Austria

ETRO Pacific Investments Corp (MPIC), an infrastructure conglomerate, formalized its interest in acquiring PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp, a water utility firm owned by the Villar group.

MPIC signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) to begin due diligence on PrimeWater’s assets, a top executive said.

MPIC chairman, president and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan said the company is reviewing the provided financial data before finalizing an offer.

“We are at the beginning of the pro-

cess. We are getting feedback from the preliminary analysis of the numbers they have provided for us,” Pangilinan said.

He said an offer could be finalized within a week. However, MPIC has not yet determined its acquisition strategy, including whether it would bid for the entire company or only specific profitable assets.

Pangilinan also noted that PrimeWater has outstanding debts that have not yet been addressed in the discussions.

PrimeWater holds joint venture agreements with more than 70 water districts across the Philippines, including in Bulacan and Cavite.

MPIC owns a stake in Maynilad Water Services Inc, the concessionaire for the west zone of Metro Manila.

It also wholly owns MetroPac Water Investments Corp. (MWIC), which previously confirmed talks with PrimeWater. MPIC has not yet decided which of its two water utility firms would make the potential acquisition.

JG SUMMIT Holdings, Inc. (JGS) said Thursday its net income in the first nine months of 2025 rose 5 percent to P18.8 billion, led by a strong 24 percent year-on-year (YoY) increase in recurring core profits.

The Gokongwei-led conglomerate posted consolidated core profit of P19.3 billion in the nine-month period, including a P4-billion equitized gain from Pratt & Whitney as compensation for ongoing Aircrafton-Ground (AOG) issues.

This compares with P20.3 billion

reported last year, which contained P7.9 billion in bank merger gains.

Excluding these one-off gains, recurring core profits saw a substantial increase to P15.4 billion.

“We continue to exhibit a strong upward trajectory in our recurring core profits, driven by the performance of our listed strategic business units, as well as the curbed losses from our mothballed petrochemical plant,” said JG Summit president and chief executive Lance Gokongwei.

“With 2025 serving as a rebasing

LT GROUP Inc. (LTG) on Thursday reported a record attributable net income of P22.57 billion in the first nine months of 2025, reflecting a 14-percent increase year-on-year. This marks the strongest nine-month and third-quarter performance since the company’s follow-on public offering, it said in a statement. Philippine National Bank (PNB) was the largest contributor to the record earnings with P10.40 billion, or 46 percent of the total. Fortune Tobacco Corp. (FTC), representing the tobacco business, added P8.12 billion, or 36 percent. Tanduay

year, we are currently in the process of refreshing our long-term strategy with clear 5-year value creation plans coming from our food, airline and real estate units,” he said.

Gokongwei said JG Summit is also “undergoing a more deliberate portfolio review and capital allocation process with tighter governance and investment guardrails set in place.”

JG Summit’s consolidated revenue ended flat at P277.5 billion in the first nine months of 2025. In the third quarter, the company reported

By Darwin G. Amojelar

CEBU Pacific (CEB) said Thursday that its net income soared 179 percent in the first nine months of 2025 to P9.5 billion from a year ago, on the back of robust passenger volume. The Gokongwei-led airline’s profit was up from P3.4 billion it earned in the same period last year. Total revenue for the January to September period rose 18 percent to P87.6 billion. This growth was fueled by 20 million passengers flown, a 14-percent increase year-on-year, resulting in a healthy seat load factor of 84.8 percent.

Third-quarter net income amounted to P499 million, reversing a P173million net loss recorded a year ago. The airline’s total revenue for the third quarter reached P24.3 billion, or 5 percent higher year-on-year, despite the usual seasonal slowdown due to the earlier start of the academic year. The airline flew more than 6 million passengers during the quarter, a 1-percent increase year-on-year. Additional gains from spare engines secured from the manufacturer also contributed to the increased net income.

“Cebu Pacific delivered a strong year-to-date performance despite seasonal headwinds in the third quarter. This reflects the resilience of our business model the strength of underlying travel demand and the discipline of our teams in managing cost and capacity amid an evolving operating environment,” said Cebu Pacific chief executive Michael Szucs. CEB’s growth and margin expansion were supported by an 18-percent increase in available seat kilometers on an 11-percent increase in flights year-to-date, as the company continued its transition to larger highercapacity and more fuel-efficient NEO aircraft.

total revenue of P83.5 billion, down 6 percent due to the shutdown of its petrochemical plant. The growth in recurring core profit was supported by strong performances across its key business units. Universal Robina Corp.’s revenue rose 5 percent to P124.6 billion in the first nine months. This was driven by higher volumes and market share gains in its domestic branded consumer food (BCF) segment, coupled with the improving scale of the URC International (URCI) business. Darwin G. Amojelar

BUSINESS

Maynilad’s core income jumps

18.1% to P11.4b on higher tariffs Ayala’s Q3 core profit grew 4% to P12.8b

By Jenniffer B. Austria and Othel V. Campos

NEWLY listed water utility firm Maynilad Water Services Inc. reported core net income of P11.4 billion in the first nine months of the year, up 18.1 percent, driven by higher revenues.

Maynilad, in a disclosure to the stock exchange, said revenues rose 9.5 percent to P27.7 billion pesos on the back of an 8 percent tariff increase implemented at the start of the year and an adjustment in the environmental charge to 25 percent from 20 percent. Billed volume, however, declined 1

Stocks rise, peso slightly stronger against US dollar

THE Philippine market ended slightly higher on Thursday as buying pressure remained strong, with investors taking advantage of relatively cheap stock prices.

The peso closed at P59 to the U.S. dollar on Thursday, also slightly stronger than Wednesday’s 59.17.

Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said the Philippine Stock Exchange index moved to 5,726.99 up by 0.23 percent driven by renewed optimism following the release of some corporate earnings.

The PSEi joined many of its regional peers in the green territory as the local market extended its gains as the end of the US government’s shutdown with the signing of the funding bill compelled investors to do more bargain hunting. Trading was quite active with net value turnover at P6.08 billion, higher than the year-to-date average of P5.87 billion. Foreigners were net sellers with net outflows at P409.21 million.

The market closed with 95 gainers, 82 decliners, and 51 remained unchanged. Market turnover was at P6.07 billion net of extraordinary block sales. Sectors were mixed with the services gaining the most, up 2.18 percent. The banks lost the most, cutting 1.13 percent.

Advancers outnumbered decliners 95 to 82.

Globe Telecom, Inc. was the day’s index leader, jumping 9.79 percent to P1,648.00. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. was the main index laggard, falling 6.20 percent to P24.20. Shares price of Golden MV Holdings, Inc., the death care company of billionaire Manuel Villar, plunged nearly 30 percent on Thursday after resumption of trading.

Shares of Golden Haven opened higher at P2,300 versus P2,296.00 when it was last traded in May 15. However it closed at P1,608, down 29.97 percent. Jenniffer B. Austria and Alena Mae S. Flores

percent following government restrictions on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) and the transfer or closure of several large commercial accounts in the west zone.

“We continue to meet our service commitments while investing in the infrastructure that will sustain longterm growth,” said Maynilad presi-

dent and chief executive Ramoncito Fernandez.

“Our operational gains and disciplined execution show that our fundamentals remain sound, and that we are on track with our 2025 operational and financial objectives.”

Following its maiden share offering, Fernandez said the company also continued to invest heavily in system upgrades and new water-treatment facilities under its 2023–2025 capital expenditures (CAPEX) program.

On the water-supply side, key projects include the 150-million-liter-perday (MLD) Poblacion Water Treat-

ment Plant in Muntinlupa, as well as modular treatment plants in Cavite that bolster supply in the southern part of the service area.

On the wastewater front, major undertakings include the 20-MLD Tunasan and 46-MLD Cupang Water Reclamation Facilities in Muntinlupa, and the larger 205-MLD CAMANA and 180-MLD Manila North wastewater-treatment projects.

As of the end of September 2025, Maynilad’s nonrevenue water (NRW) level improved to 32.8 percent from 39.3 percent in the same period last year.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

Our

announced initiatives in

Makro and Spinneys, signify our continued confidence in the market,” he said. The conglomerate said that in the first nine months of the year, core businesses, including Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and Ayala Land Inc. (ALI), continued to perform well.

BPI’s net income grew 5 percent to P50.5 billion on the back of a 13.2 percent growth in total revenues, reaching P142.3 billion, supported by sustained loan growth and continued net interest margin expansion.

ALI’s net income increased 1 percent to P21.4 billion, with property development reve-nues reaching P75.9 billion and leasing and hospitality revenues growing 6 percent to P35.1 billion.

MREIT’s distributable income up 29% on acquisitions, expansion plans

MREIT Inc., the real estate investment trust of property developer Megaworld Corp., said Wednesday that its distributable income surged 29 percent year-over-year to P935 million in the third quarter of 2025 on acquisition portfolio strength and sustained rent-al escalations.

It said nine-month distributable income also increased 27 percent to P2.8 billion as revenues grew 33 percent to P4.13 billion. Revenues for the third quarter rose 42 percent to P1.43 billion. The strong thirdquarter performance was fueled by the full con-tribution of six newly acquired office properties in 2024, increased occupancy and sustained rental escalations.

MREIT’s portfolio occupancy improved to 92 percent as of the end of September 2025, marking a 300-basispoint increase from the previous quarter.

The company attributed the rise to the successful onboarding of traditional and business process outsourcing tenants.

Following its strong third-quarter results, MREIT declared cash dividends of P0.250478 per share payable on Dec. 19, 2025. This translates to an annualized dividend yield of 7.3 percent, based on the last closing price of P13.66 per share as of Nov. 12, 2025.

MREIT said it is preparing for its next wave of expansion with plans to acquire 10 office properties—nine buildings in McKinley Hill and one in Eastwood City—with a com-bined

gross leasable area of about 198,500 square meters.

The company is anticipating regulatory approval to increase its authorized capital stock to P8 billion from P5 billion to enable these infusions.

Once completed, these assets will expand MREIT’s portfolio by about 41 percent to 680,000 square meters from the current 482,000 square meters.

Following this round of office infusion, MREIT also plans to begin the acquisition of several mall assets

to diversify its portfolio further. “Our strong performance this quarter reflects not only the resilience of our office portfolio but also our readiness for the next wave of growth,” said MREIT president and chief executive Jose Arnulfo Batac. He said that with market conditions turning more favorable, the company is “well-positioned to pursue our long-term expansion plans and deliver sustained value to our shareholders.”

MREIT targets to expand its gross leasable area to 1 million square meters by 2027.

LAGUNA DREDGING. San Miguel Corporation (SMC) begins dredging operations in San Pedro, Laguna, in response to the city’s long-standing flooding problem. This initiative is one of the key projects being pushed by Governor Sol Aragones, in partnership with the local government, to

in flood-prone communities. Roy Tomandao

MPTC seeks P20b in bond offering to fund toll roads

By Darwin G. Amojelar

METRO Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) plans to offer up to P15 billion in fixed-rate bonds to the public, with an oversubscription option for another P5 billion, bringing the total potential issuance to P20 billion.

The company said it secured preemptive approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the offering. The net proceeds from the bond of-

fering will partially finance continuing investments in the construction and upkeep of the Manila Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX), Cavite Laguna Expressway (CALAX), and Lapu

Lapu Expressway (LLEX) roadway

infrastructure, partially refinance bridge facilities and fund other general corporate purposes, it said.

“This maiden bond offering strengthens MPTC’s liquidity and diversifies its sources of capital,” said MPTC president and chief executive Gilbert Santa Maria.

“The proceeds will fund our ongoing investments and expansion projects, consistent with our mission to build essential infrastructure that supports nation-building and economic

progress,” he said.

The bonds will be issued in up to three series with tenors of 3 years, 5 years or 10 years. They are intended to be issued at par, with interest calculated on a 30/360-day count basis and paid quarterly in arrears.

Philippine Ratings Services Corp. assigned the bonds a PRS Aaa rating with a stable outlook on Sept. 26, 2025.

The target public offer period is scheduled to run from Nov. 17 to 21, 2025.

By Othel V. Campos

By Alena Mae S. Flores

VIVANT Corp. said Monday said its consolidated core net income (CCNI) grew 24 percent to P1.9 billion in the first nine months of 2025, led by strong results from its power generation and energy distribution operations.

The company reported that net income attributable to equity holders of the parent company also rose 12 percent year-on-year to P1.9 billion after accounting for non-recurring items such as a foreign exchange gain, insurance proceeds and a cost reimbursement of certain power subsidiaries.

Vivant chief executive Arlo

Sarmiento said the company “continued to show strong results despite the slower than expected GDP growth” and noted the positive performance of the company’s power generation, energy distribution and wastewater treatment operations.

Sarmiento expressed bullishness for the remaining quarter of 2025, particularly following the recent acquisition of a minority stake in Samal Solar Renewable Energy Corp. (SSREC), which operates a 53.14-MW solar power plant in Bataan.

Vivant Energy acquired a 40-percent equity stake in SSREC in September 2025, effectively increasing Vivant’s total attributable operating generation capacity to 471 MW.

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Thursday it is integrating cutting-edge Free Space Optics (FSO) laser technology into its standard network infrastructure to boost network transport and expand high-speed internet access across the Philippines.

The telecommunications company said its shared services arm Fiber Infrastructure and Network Services Inc. (FINSI) teamed up with Singapore-based Transcelestial Technologies to roll out the wireless laser solution nationwide.

FSO uses laser light beams to transmit data through the air, providing fiberlike internet speeds without requiring

(third from left) and DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara (center).

cables. This allows Globe to quickly build reliable connections, particularly in areas where laying fiber cables is difficult or time-consuming, making it ideal for expanding broadband and 5Gready infrastructure.

The partnership, solidified by an August 2025 agreement, accelerates the use of wireless laser communication. This includes Transcelestial’s Centauri laser devices for last-mile connectivity, mobile backhaul, and event-based network requirements.

“Free Space Optics is no longer a pilot for Globe. It is now one of our standard transport solutions,” said Gerhard Tan, senior director and head

of technology strategy and innovations at Globe.

“By integrating Transcelestial’s technology into our regular network deployments, we can strengthen our mobile backhaul and deliver highspeed internet to more Filipinos, faster,” he said.

The technology has already proven its reliability in earlier pilots across the Visayas and Mindanao.

It was also used during large-scale events, such as at the Philippine Arena in 2024, where Transcelestial’s devices powered Globe’s Cell Site on Wheels with seamless high-speed connectivity. Darwin G. Amojelar

allocated P500 million for the first year of construction and another P500 million for the second, bringing the total investment for the site to P1 billion.

The Quezon and Visayas hubs will each require at least the same level of funding, amounting to P1 billion each.

PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) plans to increase its nonstop service between Manila and Los Angeles (LA) from 14 to 18 flights weekly starting June 2026.

The increase, led by continued growth in travel demand between Manila and the US West Coast, will see the route operate three times a day on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, up from the current twicedaily schedule using the Boeing 777 aircraft.

The expanded service aims to support the dynamic economic relationship between the Philippines and the US, while offering travelers seamless

access to PAL’s extensive domestic and regional network across the Philippines and Asia.

Passengers flying to Los Angeles will also benefit from expanded connectivity to other parts of the United States through PAL’s airline partners.

“By increasing our capacity on this key route, we are opening doors for travelers to experience the worldclass service and heartfelt hospitality unique to Philippine Airlines, while also supporting the

ic relationship that

(standing,

general manager Jake Lachica and Holcim senior vice president and head of geocycle Samuel Manlosa Jr.

DYNAMIC LEARNING. The Department of Education (DepEd), together with PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) and the

TRANSPORT

DOTr allocates P265m for new busway stations

PAL allows small dogs in-cabin

PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) further elevates the passenger flying experience by allowing fur parents to fly with their small dog in-cabin to top destinations like Boracay, Bohol, and Siargao.

This latest in-flight service called FurPAL will be available for booking starting November 12, 2025 with travel period beginning on December 1, 2025 for only P2,500 one-way base fare.

“As the first mover in pet air travel in Philippines, we recognize the unbreakable bond between people and their beloved pets. With FurPAL, we are making it more convenient for them to take a vacation with their pets and create unforgettable memories together,” said PAL vice president for marketing Alvin Miranda. He added that PAL is taking a thoughtful step-by-step approach to welcoming pets on board.

“We are initially offering this service for small dogs, and can expand to other dog sizes and pet types depending on aviation security and safety regulations,” Miranda added. FurPAL is available for flights between Manila and popular island destinations — Boracay, Bohol and Siargao.

Booking a FurPAL flight is as easy as choose, click, and confirm. Simply select a FurPAL-eligible flight to Boracay, Bohol, or Siargao

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) is allocating P265 million for the construction of new busway stations and footbridges in Cubao, Magallanes and the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX).

The agency said it is inviting prospective bidders for the design and build procurement of the new busway stations and footbridges, with an approved budget of P264.86 million.

“Biding is restricted to Filipino citizen/ sole proprietorships, cooperatives and partnerships or organizations with at least 60 percent interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines,” the DOTr said.

It said that bidders should have completed a contract similar to the project, while bidding will be conducted through competitive bidding procedures using a non-discretionary “pass/fail” criterion.

A complete bidding document may be acquired by interested bidders on November 11 to December 2, 2025.

Birds should be received by the Bids and

on the Philippine Airlines website. On the Travel Boost page, click FurPAL to include your beloved pet in your booking. Confirm your flight details, settle the payment, and you’re all set to fly in comfort and style, together with your fur baby.

To ensure every passenger’s safety and convenience, stringent restrictions and requirements will be observed. Only small dog breeds weighing up to 10 kg, at least eight weeks old, and fully weaned are eligible for the service. Each passenger may bring one pet, with a limit of three small dogs allowed per flight.

PAL also imposes a strict rule on pet carriers. They should be soft-sided, leak-proof, and equipped with pee pads and two ventilation panels. The pet carriers should have a maximum size of 17” x 11” x 9.5”. During the flight, the pet must remain inside the carrier, placed under the seat in front of the passenger. Health certificates and vaccinations are also mandatory, and pet sedation is not allowed. The fur parents must present a veterinary certificate, vaccination card, the PAL waiver and declaration form, and shipping permit form issued by Bureau of Animal Industry.

Awards Committee (BAC) on or before Dec. 2, 2025, while the technical bid opening is set on Dec. 3, 2025

“The DOTr reserves the right to reject any and all bids, declare a failure of bidding, or not award the contract at any time prior to contract award in accordance with Section 70 of RA No. 1209, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders,” the DOTr said.

The agency commenced the bidding process for the P252.8 million Phase 1 rehabilitation of EDSA Busway stations, covering the Monumento, Bagong Barrio, North Avenue, and Guadalupe stations.

The agency has suspended earlier plans to privatize the operations and maintenance (O&M) of the EDSA Busway system this year. The DOTr is prioritizing the full rehabilitation and upgrade of all stations before transferring management to a private concessionaire.

The DOTr expects the completion of these station and infrastructure upgrades by February or March 2026. Following the completion of these improvements, the government will then proceed with the privatization of the busway’s O&M.

The EDSA Busway Project, a flagship initiative of the DOTr supported by the DPWH and MMDA, aims to enhance mass transit efficiency, safety and accessibility along EDSA, Metro Manila’s main thoroughfare. Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) provided free rides to a total of 237,078 passengers on LRT Line 2 during the two-day implementation of the Libreng Sakay (Free Ride) program from November 10 to 11, 2025.

This initiative was enacted to assist commuters affected by the aftermath of Super Typhoon Uwan.

A total of 71,627 passengers availed of the free rides on November 10, while 165,451 passengers were served on November 11.

LRTA Administrator Hernando T. Cabrera thanked LRTA personnel for their dedication and service during the typhoon. “We extend our gratitude to our operations and maintenance personnel who worked tirelessly to keep our train service safe and uninterrupted,” Cabrera said.

“The LRTA remains steadfast in ensuring safe and

DOTr expedites Pio Duran port, Bicol airport repairs

ACTING Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez is expediting the construction and expansion of the new pier of the Pio Duran Port in Albay after the existing structure was damaged when it was hit by Super Typhoon Uwan.

This follows the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure the immediate repair of damaged infrastructure in transport hubs affected by the recent typhoon.

During his inspection of the Pio Duran Port, Lopez immediately ordered the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to construct a new and wider pier and road connector because it is no longer usable based on its current conditions.

The acting transport chief said that the wider and new pier of the Pio Duran Port should be built immediately because 30 cargo trucks going to Masbate pass through here.

“We need to restore the operations of this port immediately. It is important that we expedite the construction of the expanded pier because we will connect it to the road to make it accessible to cargo and passengers,” said Acting Secretary Lopez.

The Secretary added that this is a big deal for passengers and residents because it is one of the center of trade and business in the municipality.

Lopez also ordered the repair of part of the ceiling at the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) of the Bicol International Airport that was damaged by strong winds brought by Super Typhoon Uwan.

During his inspection of the Bicol International Airport on Tuesday, Acting Secretary Lopez immediately ordered the airport to be more robustly repaired.

Lopez explained that it would be better to replace the ceiling materials with uniform ones for a stronger foundation, which will also not be damaged by future typhoons.

“The President said that the structures of our airports, terminals and transport hubs should not only be repaired but also be strong and able to withstand future typhoons. These structures and facilities must be safe for our passengers,” Lopez said.

convenient travel for all our passengers,” he added. This initiative is in line with LRTA vision to provide safe, comfortable, and sustainable transportation for commuters.

LRMC expands disaster preparedness beyond rail line

LIGHT Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) is expanding its safety and disaster preparedness efforts beyond its train lines and stations and into the communities it serves, addressing the urgent needs highlighted by recent natural calamities like earthquakes and widespread floods.

LRMC is intensifying its efforts through the “LRT-1 KaligtaSakay: A Safety Education Program.” This initiative, launched in 2023, is a vital community outreach program aimed at building resilience right in the neighborhoods adjacent to the LRT-1 route. The program equips elementary

and

and ultimately, to the

empowering participants to act

and correctly in

LRMC has successfully partnered with key community institutions along the LRT-1 line, including

Gemini Generated Image

Gemini Generated Image

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

By Nickie Wang

CATHY Garcia-Sampana’s latest film, Meet, Greet & Bye feels familiar in the best way. Its story and treatment are unmistakably Pinoy, yet the emotions are “very universal.”

I caught the film on Tuesday at SM Megamall Cinema 2 during a BDO screening, coinciding with Star Cinema’s star-studded red carpet premiere at Cinema 3. Exiting the theater, I ran into fellow scribes and was immediately asked, “How many times did you cry?” I said, “Three… no, four times.”

The first tear fell during a searing confrontation between Piolo Pascual and Joshua Garcia. Joshua’s performance is a masterclass in controlled rage and heartbreak, holding everything in until he finally explodes. I thought that was it—but then Piolo’s restrained, perfectly measured line cut even deeper, leaving a lump in my throat. The confrontation between Pascual and Garcia is a scene reminiscent of Four Sisters and a Wedding or Seven Sundays , but grounded in realism. The third tear came when Maricel

Cathy Garcia-Sampana’s

‘Meet, Greet & Bye’ breaks the heart softly

Soriano, already ravaged by chemotherapy and beginning to lose her memory, tells Joshua that she is trying to memorize his face so she doesn’t forget. The moment is quiet and subtle, yet it’s heartbreaking in a big way.

When Pink Siazon of PEP asked my impression as we waited for the stars to exit Cinema 3, I said simply, “This film will make you want to go home and hug your mom. Director Cathy’s intentions couldn’t be clearer—she wants to tell a story that grabs you by the heart and shakes you. Now I understand why there’s a pack of soft tissue paper in our seats.”

The film traces Baby LopezFacundo’s (Maricel Soriano) family as they face the shattering news of her stage 4 cancer. Refusing chemotherapy, Baby will only take medication if her family secures a VIP ticket to a Park Seo-joon fan meet.

In the chaos of fulfilling this wish, old wounds reopen among her sons Tupe (Piolo Pascual), Brad (Joshua Garcia), and Leo (Juan Karlos), while her granddaughter Geri Ann (Belle Mariano) becomes entangled in the

fallout.

final scene on the beach is unforgettable. Ryan Bang appears, explaining that a friend who fell in the water while parasailing wants to thank Mommy Baby—and casually mentions he just came from a fan meet the night before. The moment is open to interpretation: it could hint at a

Angeline Quinto embraces toughest role yet in new drama-thriller

By Jasper Valdez

AS SHE nears her 15th year in the entertainment industry, Angeline Quinto is exploring work that demands more depth.

In Ang Happy Homes ni Diane Hilario, she takes on a role that allows her to do just that.

The drama-thriller follows Diane, played by Angeline, a tenant in a close-knit community that begins to slowly unravel after a series of unexplained deaths unsettle the group, and tensions begin to surface.

For Angeline, the project arrived at a moment when she felt ready to take on a character with more complexity.

“Because I’ll be celebrating 15 years in showbiz next year, I also want to see what else I’m capable of,” she shared during the film’s advance screening and media launch on Nov. 7, held at SM Aura Premier.

“Apart from singing, I’ve always wanted to do this [to act]. So if there are more film offers that come my way, I’ll accept them as long as I can handle it.” According to Angeline, part of exploring the persona of Diane required looking into her own experiences. To fully embody the character, she had to draw from something real.

One scene in the film, she admitted, mirrored a part of her own life, recalling how she once kept her relationship with her now-husband, Nonrev Daquina, out of public view.

“There’s a scene in the film where I’m hiding someone inside my house—and that really happened in real life,” she said.

“When my husband and I were just starting, we weren’t allowed to be public with our relationship yet. It even reached a point where he had to pretend to be a Grab driver just to see me. That’s really how we were back then.”

Angeline’s approach aligned with how director Marlon Rivera wanted the film to feel on screen.

“Diane is a character who isn’t perfect, but she has heart,” Marlon said. “And Angeline carries her reallife experience with her. That’s why the portrayal feels whole.”

Angeline said the dynamic on set helped her grow into the role. “Direk Marlon won’t force you if you’re not ready for a scene,” she said. “He’ll talk to you. That’s why I didn’t feel pressured—I knew we were supporting each other.”

She also credited the ensemble cast, which includes Eugene Domingo, Luis Alandy, Paolo Contis, Richard Yap, as part of what made the experience all the more enriching.

“I was happy to work with them,” Angeline said. “We helped each other. The set was light.”

Marlon acknowledged the realities of releasing films in local cinemas today but emphasized that the work continues because it still holds meaning for the people who make it.

“We all know it’s not easy to release films in theaters right now,” he said. “But producers and artists continue to take risks because the craft is what they’re after.”

Ang Happy Homes ni Diane Hilario opens in cinemas nationwide on Dec. 3.

German court rules ChatGPT maker violated songwriters’

A GERMAN court ruled Tuesday that OpenAI has infringed copyright law by using song lyrics to feed its chat models in a case that could have wide implications for European artists.

The Munich court found that the maker of ChatGPT was not entitled to use song lyrics to train its artificial intelligence without licenses and that the artists who wrote them are entitled to compensation.

“Both the memorization in the language models and the reproduction of the song lyrics in the chatbot’s outputs constitute infringements of copyright law,” the court ruled.

The case was filed in November 2024 by German music rights body GEMA on behalf of the artists behind nine German songs.

GEMA, which represents more than 100,000 composers, songwriters, and publishers, accused OpenAI of reproducing protected song lyrics without having purchased licenses or paid the creators.

San Francisco-based OpenAI argued it had not broken the law because its language models do not store or copy specific data but rather reflect in their settings what they have learnt, according to the court.

With regard to the AI chatbot, it is users who are the producers of its output and are responsible for it, OpenAI argued.

But the court on Tuesday ruled that the plaintiffs were entitled to compensation “both on the basis of the reproduction of the texts in the language models and their reproduction in the outputs”.

In a statement on Tuesday, OpenAI said that “we disagree” with the ruling and that the company was “considering next steps.”

“The decision is for a limited set of lyrics and does not impact the millions of people, businesses, and developers in Germany that use our technology every day,” it said.

“We respect the rights of creators and content owners and are having productive conversations with many organizations around the world so that they can also benefit from the opportunities of this technology.” AFP

ending where Baby finally meets Park Seo-joon, or symbolize a gentle passage, with Ryan Bang acting as a guiding presence toward the afterlife.

From left: Joshua Garcia, Belle Mariano, JK Labajo, and Piolo Pascual play as the Facundo siblings in family drama ‘Meet, Greet, & Bye’

The film explores the unraveling of a close-knit community through a story of secrets, fear, and human connection

Angeline Quinto takes on her most challenging acting role yet in ‘Ang Happy Homes ni Diane Hilario’

Angeline Quinto (second from right) stars in ‘Ang Happy Homes ni Diane Hilario’

SHOWBIZ

Sparkle GMA Artist Center

By Nickie Wang

FOR 30 years, Sparkle

GMA Artist Center has been shaping some of the brightest stars in Philippine entertainment, nurturing talent that has become household names across television, music, and film.

From rising teen idols to celebrated stars, the network’s talent arm has honed performers who define local pop culture and continue to capture the hearts of audiences nationwide.

Now, the milestone is set to shine at the MOA Sky Amphitheater on Nov. 15 with its free concert, Sparkle Trenta . The event celebrates fans who have supported Sparkle through three decades, offering a lively mix of

NEWLY crowned Miss Earth

2025 Natalie Puškinová urged solidarity and environmental responsibility as the Philippines faces the onslaught of Super Typhoon Uwan.

“I just want to share my prayers with all of you who are facing the typhoon. We are all in this together, as I am currently based in Manila. Please, protektahan natin ang kalikasan (let’s protect nature),” Puškinová said in a message.

The 21-year-old Czech beauty, a farmer’s daughter from the village of Brnky near Prague, is the second Ceska (Czech woman) to win the Miss Earth crown after Tereza Fajksová in 2012. She bested more than seventy delegates worldwide to succeed Miss Earth 2024 Jessica Lane

performances that capture the spirit of the next 30 years.

Inspired by the Gen Z term “trentahin,” the concert directed by Rico Gutierrez promises youthful fun, dynamic energy, and moments to remember.

Leading the lineup is Alden Richards, alongside Barbie Forteza, Michelle Marquez Dee, Julie Anne San Jose , Miguel Tanfelix, Gabbi Garcia, Rayver Cruz, and Rodjun Cruz

Fans will also see rising stars including Angel Guardian, Kelvin Miranda, Faith Da Silva, and Bianca Umali . Sparkle Teens, Sparkle 10, Sparkle Campus Cuties, and Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition ’s Sparkle housemates will bring youthful flair, while comedy queen Ai-ai Delas Alas adds laughter to the celebration. Passes are available through the SM Malls Online App. Attendees can claim coupons for a night of unforgettable performances.

For behind-the-scenes updates and more, follow @ sparklegmaartistcenter on Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok.

‘Nuremberg’ reminds how we must deal with evil

FRIDAY evening last week, I took the opportunity to see a movie right on its opening day. Two of my siblings and my brother-in-law watched with me at Cinemark in Rialto, California. I do wonder how a courtroom drama depicting a post-World War II trial resonates with today’s audiences. But as far as I know, Nuremberg, the movie in question, is as relevant a narrative as it was at the time of Adolf Hitler’s demise and the eventual defeat of his despotic Nazis. We’re talking about an event that happened 80 years ago.

Apart from the plot that can be simplified as putting on trial the surviving Nazi top brass, interest in the movie is heightened by the involvement of three remarkable actors—Best Actor Oscar winners Russell Crowe and Rami Malek, and twotime Academy Award nominee Michael Shannon

Based on the 2013 book The Nazi and the Psychiatrist by Jack El-Hai, this movie is a masterful craft of historical depiction with cinematic flair that includes footage showing the aftermath of the actual mass murder, which made the said trial compelling and necessary.

Nuremberg prison. The film is an acting ensemble, with the fine writing—thanks to director James Vanderbilt’s impressive screenwriting résumé— complementing the powerful screen presence of both Shannon and Malek. Even the other Nazi figures, given their moments, delivered. Simply put, the characters are fleshed out. Besides, they benefit from how historically defined their roles are. Even without saying a word, you can sense the badness of a person pinpointed as responsible for spreading hate and false narratives through journalism. The shots’ atmosphere and look, too, give us the feeling of being right there. Thus, when images of Nazi atrocities are shown, you feel like the theater itself has become the courtroom. The quietness of that scene eerily embraces the doomed, screaming souls.

Puškinová’s environmental platform centers on ocean protection, inspired by her experience as a certified scuba diver. She actively supports youth-led sustainability efforts through the European Solidarity Corps, a program of the European Commission that empowers young people to promote sustainable living through awareness, empathy, and action.

cleaner, more sustainable planet.

Araneta City’s giant Christmas tree uplifts Filipinos’ spirit

Now based in Manila, Puškinová and her elemental court—Miss Earth–Fire 2025 Waree Ngamkham, Miss Earth–Air 2025 Soldis Vala Ivarsdottir, and Miss Earth–Water 2025 Trinh My Anh were named honorary ambassadors of social enterprises during the 2025 Philippine SE Roadmap Conference in Quezon City. During the event, the Miss Earth queens shared their advocacies on river rehabilitation, climate change, and upcycling, emphasizing how small, consistent actions can lead to a

THE spirit of the yuletide season brings hope to the country reeling from the impact of successive natural

calamities. The lighting of Araneta City’s giant Christmas tree comes at the most opportune time to uplift the spirit of Filipinos and remind them that hope always shines through amid challenges.

Araneta City’s giant Christmas tree, first set up and lit at the Big Dome entrance in 1981 and now a cherished symbol of the holiday season, celebrates this year’s theme, “Christmas glows in the city: Built by memories, lit by hope.” The tree dazzles in festive red and gold, adorned with 3,000 pine garlands, 8,000 bright lights, and unique Christmas ornaments.

Gracing the event were Bb. Pilipinas International 2024 Myrna Esguerra, Bb. Pilipinas Globe 2025 Annabelle Mae McDonnell, Bb. Pilipinas 2025 first runner-up Dalia Varde Khattab, and Bb. Pilipinas 2025 second runnerup Kathleen Enid Espenidol Vice Ganda led the celebrities who performed during the program, including Joshua Garcia PBB Collab winner Mika Salamanca and Brent Manalo Bianca de Vera, Klarisse de Guzman, and P-pop group BGYO

Crowe as Hermann Göring— the biggest fish being tried at the international tribunal that took place in the German city where propaganda rallies used to be held—symbolizes the arrogance and entitlement of Nazi leaders. He is the highest-ranking official caught, essentially representing the worst of the Nazis who had already cowardly taken their lives, like Heinrich Himmler, Joseph Goebbels, and, of course, Hitler himself.

Crowe’s Göring is, as you can expect, an imposing figure even in prison. I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets an Academy nomination just for that heart attack scene.

I am still giving it to Brian Cox, though, for the definitive Göring portrayal, which he showcased in that turn-of-the-millennium docudrama of the same name.

Surprisingly, Leo Woodall (Sgt. Howie Triest) and John Slattery (Burton Andrus) are two standouts stealing the spotlight, with the former appearing as the mild-mannered translator helping Malek’s Douglas Kelley perform his role as psychiatrist, and the latter serving as the loud, pushy, yet endearing commandant of the

Conversations between Göring and the psychiatrist can be best described in one word— abracadabra—which, upon being uttered, seems to bond them. I did not feel sleepy at any point in the film, even if there’s not much literal action. Well, a fast-paced, gripping thriller banked on verbal conversations can’t be a bad movie. My biggest takeaway is how the film clearly sends the message that it’s not enough to just capture the enemies and execute them right away. Far from romanticizing the situation, there is a need for the villains to be in court and formally sentenced for their crimes. The world had to know what they did, and punishments must be meted out accordingly after being proven guilty. They were obviously guilty. The magnitude of the Holocaust meant no excuse or scapegoat could take the blame. It was a conspiracy that showed how bad people could be because of ideology and fanaticism.

Millions of innocents were murdered without trial during World War II. Doing the same to what was left of the Nazi regime would have been anticlimactic. The Nuremberg trials turned those racist, narcissistic leaders of that German regime into caged wild animals—which they deserved. It was a form of victory for the world.

These days, we no longer have the Nazi-constructed concentration camps. But we have nastily corrupt people ruining societies, making the lives of the general public miserable. These unfair people deserve fair trials, too. They should be made accountable for what they are doing, like Göring and the lesser-known Nazis at Nuremberg. If that happens, let’s hope nobody gets bribed to hand them cyanide capsules.

From left: Sparkle artists Jillian Ward, Alden Richards, Barbie Forteza, and Julie Ann San Jose lead ‘Sparkle Trenta’ free concert event

Best Actor Oscar winners Rami Malek (left) and Russell Crowe in a scene from the film ‘Nuremberg’

Newly crowned Miss Earth

2025 Natalie Puškinová (second from right) and her elemental court after being named honorary ambassadors of social enterprises during the 2025 Philippine SE Roadmap Conference in Quezon City

From left: Bb. Pilipinas 2025 first runner-up Dalia Varde Khattab, Bb. Pilipinas International 2024 Myrna Esguerra, Bb. Pilipinas Globe 2025 Annabelle Mae McDonnell, and Bb. Pilipinas 2025 second runner-up Kathleen Enid Espenidol grace the lighting of Araneta City’s giant Christmas tree

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Colourette’s best-selling Velvetint lipsticks make a comeback as part of the brand’s 10th-year celebration

Random Talk

Kate Adajar

Inclusivity fuels beauty

How Colourette contributed to the flourishing local beauty industry

IN THE local beauty industry, where more and more Filipino-owned brands are finally being recognized, it’s refreshing to see how local labels are flourishing. Visit the mall’s beauty section these days, and local brands are flourishing. Filipinas are finally embracing their own kind of beauty, and one of the pioneering brands that helped pave this path is Colourette, owned by

Nina Ellaine Dizon

This 2025, Colourette marks its 10th anniversary. A chance to sit down with Nina during the brand’s celebration and relaunch of its iconic Velvetint lipstick line gave me a glimpse of her success behind the scenes.

A decade of color

Last month,Angkan Coffee in Capitol Commons was filled with guests and the Colourette team dressed in shades of peach. A giant cake décor marked the milestone, and each guest received a

realistic, cake-like box containing a full set of Velvetints. It was festive, fun, and warm—a perfect reflection of Colourette’s personality.

When asked how it feels to reach ten years, Nina said, “It hasn’t really sunk in yet because I’ve been so busy, but whenever consumers tell me, ‘I started using Colourette back in senior high and now I have two kids,’ that’s when I realize they grew with us. We’re so grateful we’ve made it through everything—the pandemic, starting with nothing—and now we’ve reached ten years. I feel How it all began Looking back, Nina said Colourette was born from a spontaneous idea. “It was just a spur-of-themoment thing,” she recalled. “There weren’t many local brands then, and international ones were too expensive. I saw a local lipstick brand on Instagram and thought, ‘I can do that too.’ So, I asked friends if they knew any lipstick manufacturers. It all started

“They’ve been asking for it, and we felt it was time to bring it back. This is the third version, and we wanted to fix the issues from before. Now, it’s Colourette’s take on a trendy K-beauty lip made for Filipinos.”

When asked how she ensures product quality, Nina said, “I take pride in our innovations because I personally lead product development. It takes years of research, study, and testing. Lately, we’ve been doing focus group discussions with our community. They’re the first to try samples and give feedback—whether our claims make sense, the shades match their skin tones, or we need to expand for inclusivity. We make these products for our community, so we take the time to test them thoroughly.”

Lessons from a girl boss

Nina’s love for makeup fueled that idea. “I’ve always loved makeup,” she said. “But I used to think, ‘Oh my God, international brands are so expensive and not really made for me.’ Because of the heat here, the shades and formulas didn’t suit us. That’s the gap I wanted to fill.” She added that she came from a family with no business background. “I’m a firstgeneration entrepreneur,” Nina said. “My parents weren’t in business, but they always said it was innate in me. Even as a kid, I loved selling things. If I saw something I could sell to my classmates, I would. Before Colourette, I made logos online for 25 pesos each. Then I sold scrap soaps that became an online skincare brand. The savings from that became my starting fund for Colourette.”

Velvetint returns

Ten years later, Colourette fans got a treat—the return of the brand’s best-selling Velvetint line. “It’s really because of our community,” Nina said.

Nina has become a familiar face on social media, but her advice to women and young girls is rooted in humility and honesty. “Self-love doesn’t happen overnight,” she said. “You don’t just wake up one day and feel secure. It’s a process you commit to. It starts with not being too hard on yourself. You can train your brain to like what you see and become more confident. Beauty is subjective, and it’s your choice whether to embrace your features or hate them.”

Nina also shared business lessons: “Never doubt yourself. Even if you don’t know everything yet, if your heart is in the right place, you can make your dreams come true. Hire people who are better than you at things you don’t know or enjoy. And most importantly, stay true to your vision and North Star. That’s what guides Colourette. Whenever we feel lost, we ask, ‘Does this align with our goal?’ If not, we pivot.”

Beauty, she said, is not about chasing sales or creating new products. True beauty in business is about empowering women, especially Filipinas, to be confident, love themselves, and feel comfortable in their own skin.

With Colourette, beauty finally feels like home— and we’re loving it.

Gerard Salonga, Music Director & Conductor

RESONANT SPACES Chamber Concert Orchestra of the Filipino Youth

RESONANT Spaces OFY Chamber Concert marks a milestone moment at the Black Box at The Proscenium Theater, an exciting new venue equipped with Vivace acoustics - a design that ensures warmth, clarity, and intimacy in sound. This setting is the perfect stage for chamber music, where every note and nuance resonates more directly between performers and audience.

In this concert, conducted by Gerard Salonga, Franz Ramirez, and Jasper Andra, the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth (OFY) explores the unique voices of chamber ensembles—strings, winds, brass, and percussion. Unlike in a full symphony orchestra, chamber music places each musician in a role of greater responsibility. With fewer instruments, individual parts are more exposed, dialogue between players is more immediate, and interpretation

relies on shared leadership and trust. The result is an intimate, vivid, and dynamic musical experience that bridges centuries of repertoire and styles.

In Resonant Spaces, chamber music becomes a bridge across time and style—Baroque echoes, Romantic lyricism, 20th-century grandeur, and contemporary exploration—all converging within the walls of the Proscenium Black Box. More than a concert, it is a celebration of dialogue: between instruments, musicians, and audience, brought to life in a venue designed to make every sound resonate.

About OFY

The Orchestra of the Filipino Youth is the main performing arm of Ang Misyon, a non-profit organization. OFY serves as a platform for talented young musicians,

many of whom come from underprivileged backgrounds, to access world-class music education, mentorship, and performance opportunities both locally and internationally. Through the transformative power of music, AMI-OFY nurtures talent, builds discipline, and opens doors for youth to perform on local and international stages. Under the artistic direction of Gerard Salonga and a team of professional mentors, the OFY curriculum includes oneon-one lessons, sectional workshops, and masterclasses. Its repertoire ranges from classical to contemporary, challenging scholars to grow in musical excellence and expression. Our OFY scholars come from different locations like NCR, Region 3 (Central Luzon), Region 6 (Cebu), and majority of them come from Region IV-A (CaLaBaRZon).

Nina Ellaine Dizon celebrates Colourette’s 10th anniversary with the relaunch of its Velvetint line

Colourette founder and CEO Nina Ellaine Dizon marks a decade of empowering Filipinas through beauty