Manila Standard - 2025 December 5 - Friday

By Joel E. Zurbano, Vito

and

By Rio N. Araja

‘Fighting corruption like a major cancer surgery’

By Joel Zurbano and Maricel V. Cruz

HOUSE Majority Leader and Ilo-

Norte Rep. Ferdinand Alexander

A. Marcos on Thursday showed resolve as he faced the In-

By Manila Standard

THE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on late Thursday afternoon reported that Tropical Depression "Wilma" is decelerating while moving over the Philippine Sea east of Northern Samar.

dependent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), authorizing the panel to release the video of his testimony and stressing he had nothing to hide, even as he sought an executive session solely to protect the integrity of the investigation — not himself. On the other hand, Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte formally declined the Independent Commission for Infrastructure’s (ICI) request for him to appear in its inquiry on alleged irregularities in flood-control projects in his district, declaring the body “powerless” over members of

By Vince Lopez

PHILIPPINE National

(PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has expressed openness to the possibility of the national government offering a reward for the capture of ex-Rep. Zaldy Co. Meanwhile, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has revoked the corporate

By Charles Dantes

PFerdinand Marcos Jr. said the country is going through a "difficulty" now as he likened the fight against corruption to "a very major surgery...to excise a cancer."

"When you have to excise a cancer out of such a complicated system, you need to do some very major surgery," Mr. Marcos during his year-end fellowship with the Malacañang Press Corps Wednesday evening. "And to do that, and when you do that, you will bleed. And that is what we had to go through. We had to go through that.”

"We have to go all through that pain, go through the difficulty, go through the anguish the country is going through now. But we are Filipinos. We may be bleeding now, but we will also heal very, very quickly,” the President added.

Despite the difficulty and public frustration, Mr. Marcos said the effort was necessary.

"I hope that once we go through this, we will be able to look back on this and say, ‘Okay, what happened was difficult, but it had to be done, and the suffering we went through was worth it for the result we achieved.’ That is what we are hoping for," he said.

By Charles Dantes and Cherrie Anne Villahermosa

Senate okays 2026 budget on 2nd reading

THE Senate has approved the proposed House Bill 4058 or the P6.7-trillion 2026 General Appropriations Bill on second reading, with a P68.667-billion reduction in new appropriations.

Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano and Senator Joel Villanueva voted against the measure.

According to the general summary, the net reduction is the result of P362.86 billion in increases and P431.53 billion in cuts across the board.

The total new appropriations under the Senate version stand at P4.577 trillion, down from P4.646 trillion in the House version.

The Senate version has increases for the Congress of the Philippines; Office of the President; Office of the Vice President; Department of Agrarian Reform; Department of Economy, Planning and Development; Department of Education; State Universities and Colleges; Department of Finance; Department of Foreign Affairs; Department of Information and Communications Technology; Department of the Interior and Local Government; Department of Justice; Department of Migrant Workers; Department of National Defense; Department of Science and Technology; Department of Tourism; Department of Trade and Industry; the Judiciary; Commission on Audit; and Commission on Elections.

The Senate version made reductions in the Special Purpose Funds, Department of Transportation, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, Department of Health, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and Department of Agriculture.

Singson...

From A1

of the fact-finding body did not arise from any misgivings with the appointing authorities, but rather, out of genuine concern for the toll the job is taking on his aging body. Meanwhile, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said the Palace acknowledges Singson's decision, noting that the ICI’s work is "not easy," with daily meetings, hearings and extensive documentation.

"ICI's job is really no joke," Castro said in an interview with DZMM. "They have meetings almost every day and hold hearings, with piles upon piles of documents that they need to read," she added.

The Palace official said the President has yet to act on Singson's resignation and no replacement has been identified.

“We cannot rely on just one entity

P6.45...

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Its audit report cited 747 projects that failed to comply with contract provisions due to lack of proper supervision and monitoring, with technical defects rendering them unusable.

‘‘The foregoing technical defects and deficiencies may compromise the safety of the public, cause further destruction of the infrastructures, and ultimately result in the wastage of government funds and resources if not immediately addressed,’’ it noted.

Projects with defects and deficien-

PBBM... From A1

"It is a 1.3-kilometer bridge. This is part of the entire bypass being done around Davao City," President Marcos said during the inspection.

"The trip that used to take almost two hours will now take only about 20 to 25 minutes. It’s a big relief, especially now that we’re going to work," the president added. President Marcos said the entire bypass is expected to be completed by December 2027. Approved in July 2022, the project broke ground in late 2023 and moved at a pace, Mr. Marcos credited to the

‘Fighting...

From A1

The President also appealed to journalists to help in combating disinformation, which he said had become “damaging” and now rivals legitimate reporting in public influence.

like ICI to solve the problem. It cannot be only one institution. We need several entities to help out, especially Congress,” Singson said.

“We have done our part... So we’re saying it’s your turn, guys. I am appealing to members of Congress... Please pass the Independent People’s Commission at the Senate level and the Independent Commission Against Infrastructure Corruption, which is the version in the Lower House,” he added.

As for the ICI’s funding, Singson noted that some ICI staff members have not been paid since the body was established in September.

“We were asked to go to war without the necessary ammunition,” he said.

Meanwhile, Singson assured that he has been completely transparent about his motives for resigning, notwithstanding scuttlebutt regarding his motives.

“Because of the stress, my 77-yearold body cannot take it anymore. That’s the other half of the situation.

cies were found in five District Engineering Offices in the Cordillera Administrative Region, one in the Ilocos Region, 11 in Cagayan Valley, seven in MIMAROPA, seven in the Bicol Region, nine in Western Visayas, two in Eastern Visayas, two in the Zamboanga Peninsula, five in Northern Mindanao, and two in Caraga.

In CAR alone, auditors flagged 31 projects worth P54.7 million for work that failed to meet contract standards.

Based on the report, there were longitudinal pavement cracks and instances of overpayment.

The Ilocos Region had three projects worth P45.7 million with major structural and settlement cracks.

technology and efficiency of Chinese contractors working alongside the government.

He said the bridge was completed "quickly, beautifully, and reasonably priced,” noting it as an example of infrastructure delivery at reduced construction time.

He noted that the bridge is one of four legacy infrastructure projects his administration aims to finish in Davao and nearby areas. Several sections of the bypass have already been opened.

President Marcos congratulated the DPWH and project personnel involved in the construction, saying the bridge would mark another milestone once traffic begins to pass through later this month.

"Fake news has taken too much space," he said. "Government needs the help of all media so people know the truth and are not misled by conspiracy theories," Mr. Marcos added. Since the President disclosed the questionable flood control projects during his State of the Nation Ad-

I’ve been in and out of the hospital. I just came for a medical workout this early, so you know that when you do a medical workout, you're on a diet for 10 hours, you wake up early, and you have blood extraction,” he explained.

“Please try to understand that it’s not that I don’t want to serve. It is just that my body and also the stress on my family. We are not used to this. Every stress, including heavy security for the family's safety. We hope, I hope, and I wish that people will understand the reason for my resignation. I feel that I’ve done what I have to do for ICI,” the commissioner stressed.

While his irrevocable resignation takes effect on December 15, Singson said he will make his services available to ICI Chairman Andy Reyes until the end of the current month.

Castro rejected speculation that Singson’s exit compromises the credibility of the ICI, saying "there's still good" in the commission.

She said some criticisms may be driven by groups that want to erode

Cagayan Valley had 183 projects worth P52.4 million with damaged pavements, leaking roofs, and collapsed revetment walls.

State auditors cited an P84.6million loss from 153 projects in MIMAROPA with temperature cracks, busted lights, scaling, collapsed structures, and damaged slope protection.

They reported the Bicol Region lost P4 million from 31 projects with potholes, substandard materials, plaster debonding, and soil erosion, while Western Visayas had a P3.46-billion loss from 130 projects due to pavement and structural defects.

Losses in Eastern Visayas could

Sandro...

From A1

Congress and accusing it of political harassment.

Responding to Duterte's statement, ICI Executive Director Brian Keith Hosaka said: "As far as the commission is concerned its mandate is very clear under E.O. 94, that is to investigate anomalous government infrastructure projects and all individuals who may be responsible."

Marcos reiterated that his primary concern was protecting the integrity of the fact-finding process even as he made clear he was opening his testimony to full public scrutiny, subject only to the commission’s judgment

Signal...

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Its center was last estimated 575 kilometers east of Catarman, Northern Samar, moving west-southwestward at 10 kilometers per hour (kph). According to PAGASA's 5 p.m. tropical cyclone bulletin, the tropical depression had maximum sustained winds of 45 kph and gustiness of up to 55 kph.

dress in July, the government has created the Independent Commission for Infrastructure tasked to probe the alleged anomalies. Initial cases have also been filed before the Sandiganbayan while the Anti-Money Laundering Council has frozen assets worth P11.7 billion that are related to the questionable projects.

public trust in the body.

The PCO undersecretary also addressed concerns over the departure of two high-profile ICI members, Singson and former Baguio Mayor Benjie Magalong, who resigned earlier due to conflict-of-interest issues stemming from his role as a sitting mayor.

"The commission will remain solid," Castro said, adding that the ICI’s mandate and integrity remain intact.

As this developed, Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon said that while Singson is exiting the ICI, he will still lend his expertise to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) as it moves to implement the long-delayed flood control master plan he initiated during his tenure.

“He wants to devote his expertise to helping the DPWH implement projects correctly… especially now that he has provided his expertise to ICI. Many cases have also been filed,” the incumbent secretary said in Filipino.

not be quantified because 48 projects had missing items, cracked coatings, and insufficient asphalt sealant, while Zamboanga Peninsula had nine projects with deficiencies worth P4.75 million, including missing reflectorized pavement markings and other violations of contract standards.

COA flagged Northern Mindanao for more than P2 billion in losses from 153 projects that were poorly executed or reported as completed despite being unfinished, while Caraga lost P13.1 million from six projects due tounnecessary work items, excessive quantities, and non-compliance with contract specifications.

on what might compromise its ongoing work.

“I have given the ICI full authority to release if they deem fit to release the video of my testimony, if they believe there’s no information there that might jeopardize their investigation,” Marcos said. The lawmaker had earlier declared he innocent, dismissing allegations attempting to link him to supposed irregularities in flood-control projects.

His counsel, lawyer Michelle Lazaro, underscored the rationale for the executive session request, spotlighting the need to protect the commission’s investigative efforts.

“There may be critical information that may be elicited from his testimony which may jeopardize or com-

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 had since been raised over parts of Luzon, namely the southern portion of mainland Masbate (Cataingan, Pio V. Corpuz, Esperanza, and Placer). Signal No. 1 is also up in the following Visayas areas: Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Samar, Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, the northern portion of Cebu (Daanbantayan, Medellin, City of Bogo, San Remigio, Tabogon, Borbon, Tabuelan, Tuburan, Sogod, Catmon, Asturias, Carmen, Danao City, Balamban, Compostela, Liloan, Consolacion, Cebu City, Mandaue City, Cordova, LapuLapu City) including Bantayan and Camotes Islands, and the eastern and central portions of Bohol (Inabanga, Sagbayan, Carmen, Garcia Hernandez, Jagna, Sierra Bullones, Pilar, Duero, Guindulman, Anda, Candijay, Mabini, Alicia, Ubay, Pres. Carlos P. Garcia, San Miguel, Dagohoy, Danao, Buenavista, Getafe, Trinidad, Talibon, and Bien Unido).

In Mindanao, Signal No. 1 is hoisted over Surigao del Norte, including Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands, Dinagat Islands, the northern portion of Surigao del Sur (Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Carmen), and the northern portion of Agusan del Norte (Kitcharao, Jabonga, Santiago, Tubay, and City of Cabadbaran). Wilma is forecast to move westsouthwestward until Saturday before turning generally westward for the remaining forecast period.

PNP...

From A1

Malacañang earlier disclosed that it is amenable to offering a reward for information leading to the arrest of Co, who is facing corruption and malversation charges tied to flood-control project irregularities. He is believed to be hiding in Portugal.

The PNP is currently studying the implications of recommending a bounty while reinforcing its manhunt operations in coordination with the NBI, AFP, and local government units.

"At this point, the Philippine National Police has not yet made a formal recommendation but we are ready to support whatever policy decision the national government may take. Our focus remains on locating and arresting Zaldy Co using all legal means available," Nartatez said.

A reward system, he explained, may widen the scope of actionable information from communities.

The SEC’s Enforcement and Investor Protection Department in separate resolutions issued last Nov. 26, cancelled the certificates of incorporation of St. Timothy Construction Corp. and St. Gerrard Construction General Contractor and Development Corp., two construction companies allegedly linked to the flood control corruption scandal.

The SEC also directed St. Timothy and St. Gerrard to pay ₱2 million each as a penalty under Section 11, I-A of SEC Memorandum Circular No. 10, Series of 2022, along with an administrative fine of ₱1,000 per day of continuing violation under Section 158 of Republic Act 11232, or the Revised Corporation Code.

promise further investigation of this commission,” Lazaro said, explaining that unrestricted public disclosure could alert individuals under monitoring or undermine sensitive evidencebased gathering. In a letter addressed to ICI chairman Andres Reyes Jr., Duterte said the commission — created under Executive Order No. 94 — was part of the Executive branch and therefore cannot summon or compel a sitting member of the House, citing the constitutional doctrine of separation of powers.

“The ICI appears without power or jurisdiction over me,” Duterte stated. He further accused the ICI of issuing a “vague and ambiguous” invitation lacking factual and legal basis.

Tropical depression 'Wilma's track at 5 p.m. yesterday. DOSTPAGASA

NEWS IN BRIEF

Brisbane–Cebu flight seen boosting tourism

THE Philippines and Australia have boosted tourism, trade, investment, and cultural links with the launch of Jetstar’s inaugural direct service between Brisbane and Cebu.

The Australian Embassy in the Philippines on Wednesday said the route marks a major new chapter in aviation relations between the two nations.

“This is a tangible demonstration of the Australian Government’s commitment to do more business with the Philippines,” Australian Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown said.

He added that the timing of the service could help Cebu recover from the recent typhoon.

The flight is the first scheduled service to a Philippine destination outside Manila following updated bilateral air service arrangements that doubled weekly passenger capacity and expanded codeshare opportunities. Katrina Manubay

Immigration agents arrest ‘Baccarat Boys’

AGENTS of the Bureau of Immigration have arrested two Chinese nationals known as the “Baccarat Boys,” wanted in China for operating illegal online gambling websites.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado identified the suspects as Wu Huifu and Li Yong, who were apprehended in Barangay Tambo, Parañaque City on December 2.

Wu is reportedly wanted by China’s Binzhou Public Security Bureau for running multiple gambling platforms that victimized around 500,000 players with more than 8.6 million yuan in illicit proceeds.

Li is said to be Wu’s assistant and is likewise facing arrest in China.

Viado warned that the government will not allow illegal gaming operations to return, especially after Wu’s previous stint in a banned POGO firm. Vito Barcelo

Manibela threatens 3-day nationwide strike

TRANSPORT group Manibela on Thursday threatened to stage a nationwide transport strike from December 9 to 11 over excessive penalties and slow processing of documents.

“Next week, we will conduct a three-day transport holiday,” Manibela president Mar Valbuena said.

He said the protest is nationwide and may be extended if issues remain unresolved.

Valbuena lamented that authorities continue to require drivers and operators of unconsolidated public utility vehicles to secure provisional authority.

He said the group is standing firm against what it sees as unfair requirements imposed by the government. Rio N. Araja

SC allows OSG’s role as counsel

THE Supreme Court (SC) has granted the request of the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) to resume its role as counsel for government officials named in the pending petitions filed by former president Rodrigo Duterte and Senator Ronald Dela Rosa.

During its session on Wednesday, the SC en banc approved the manifestation with entry of appearance filed by the OSG on the petitions questioning Duterte’s arrest and the Philippine government’s coopera -

tion with the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Earlier, the OSG under then Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra had asked to be excused from representing the respondents. The SC granted

that request in a resolution dated April 2.

However, on Dec. 1, the OSG, through Solicitor General Darlene Berberabe, informed the Court that it was re-entering its appearance as counsel for “all the respondents in the case,” and asked for copies of related court issuances.

In her manifestation, Berberabe said the challenge filed by Duterte’s camp against the ICC arrest warrant has “no leg to stand on.”

By Katrina Manubay and Vince Lopez

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are stepping up efforts to locate and arrest Cassandra Li Ong, who is accused of qualified human trafficking linked to a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) in Pampanga.

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Wednesday he has received information suggesting Ong may have already fled to China. He said a review of her travel records indicates she is no longer in the Philippines, raising the possibility she returned to Fujian, China, where she is reportedly from. Remulla noted, however, that the information remains unverified.

Earlier reports from Malacañang stated Ong was still in the country.

The Department of Justice has offered a P1-million reward for information leading to her arrest. Ong, who is alleged to have represented the now-closed POGO hub Lucky South 99, has been charged alongside former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque and more than 50 others. They face qualified human trafficking charges tied to an alleged scam operation in Pampanga.

9 Filipino seafarers freed from Houthi captivity

By Katrina Manubay

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced that nine Filipino seafarers from the ill-fated M/V Eternity C who were taken hostage by Houthi forces in the Red Sea have been released and moved from Sana’a, Yemen, to Muscat, Oman, through assistance

from the Sultanate of Oman.

In an X post on Thursday, December 4, DFA Secretary Theresa Lazaro thanked Oman Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi for facilitating their safe transfer.

Oman’s Foreign Ministry said 11 individuals — both Filipinos and Indians — were flown aboard a Royal Omani Air Force plane.

DFA spokesperson Angelica Escalona said the Department of Migrant Workers will handle the repatriation of the seafarers.

The vessel sank in the Red Sea after repeated attacks by Yemen-based Houthi militants. It was registered under the Liberian flag with a crew of 22, including 21 Filipinos.

Bill criminalizes illicit gov’t enrichment

By Maricel V. Cruz

HOUSE Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima on Thursday filed a measure seeking to criminalize illicit enrichment and illicit transfer by amending the Revised Penal Code, providing a stronger legal tool to combat corruption and ensure accountability in public office. Under De Lima’s House Bill 6626, or the Anti-Illicit Enrichment and Anti-Illicit Transfer Act, a new section titled “Illicit Enrichment and Illicit Transfer” will be added to Chapter Two (Malfeasance and

Misfeasance in Office), Title Seven (Crimes Committed by Public Officers), Book II of Republic Act No. 3815 or the Revised Penal Code. De Lima said the bill addresses challenges in prosecuting plunder cases and other corruption-related offenses.

“Only a few have been convicted of plunder, and at least one was pardoned. In massive corruption scandals such as the ongoing flood control projects controversy — which can happen again — it is unreasonable that those involved might not be held fully accountable, or only face lesser charges,” she said. “This proposal introduces a new crime

similar to plunder in seriousness, but easier to prove.” De Lima added that the measure eliminates the legal complexities surrounding plunder. For instance, if a lifestyle check uncovers assets not declared in a government official’s Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) — such as real estate, luxury vehicles, yachts, shares of stock, or business interests — and these cannot be justified, they may be considered illicit enrichment. If the amount exceeds P50 million and the evidence of guilt is strong, the offense will be non-bailable, similar to plunder.

SAFE AND SOUND. Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac (6th from left) thanks Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq for aiding the safe return

of nine Filipino crew members of M/V Eternity C, attacked by Houthi rebels on July 7, 2025. Hans Leo J. Cacdac via X

CYBEX 2025. Defense personnel take part in the Department of National Defense’s Cyber Exercise (CYBEX) 2025, held December 2–3 to boost cybersecurity resilience across the defense sector.

PEACE AND ART. Filipino students celebrate their achievements

Safety of ASEAN meet ensured

By Vince Lopez

ACTING Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Lt.

Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., said security measures are in place for the foreign delegates and visitors to the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations Senior Officials’ Meeting (ASEAN SEOM) Retreat in Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan next week.

Nartatez said he already ordered the police forces involved, particularly the Police Regional Office 6, to constantly supervise and update the security measures for the event from December 10 to 13.

IN BRIEF

Two Army troopers die in clash with Samar Reds

TWO Army soldiers reportedly died in an encounter with suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Babaclayon, San Jose de Buan, Samar on Wednesday.

“Our fallen soldiers served with courage and dedication, and their sacrifice will not be forgotten. Security operations will continue to ensure the protection of local communities,” Army Chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete said in a statement.

Nafarrete extended condolences to the bereaved families as he vowed to provide them with assistance.

At the same time, Nafarrete encouraged NPA holdouts rs to pursue peaceful reintegration as the Philippine Army will continue to capture the remaining members of the rebel group. Rex Espiritu

New anti-espionage bill undergoes keen scrutiny

GOVERNMENT officials, legal experts, and defense scholars convened at the 26th Heneral Antonio Luna Colloquium to discuss the proposed New Anti-Espionage Act and its implications on national security and the broader defense establishment.

The forum, jointly organized by the National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Office for Strategic Studies and Strategy Management, was held on Dec. 3 at the NDCP Honor Hall in Camp Aguinaldo.

The discussions centered on Senate Bill No.1395, specifically its potential impact on national defense.

Presentations were delivered by Rep. Rolando Valeriano of the House Committee on Public Order and Safety, Col. Vener Malabanan III of the Judge Advocate General Service, and Atty. Rowena Acudili of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency. The speakers explained how the proposed measure could serve as an effective legal tool in fortifying the country’s defense and security. Rex Espiritu

DOTr exec joins drive for cancer-hit children

DEPARTMENT OF Transportation (DOTr) Assistant Secretary IC Calaguas and Reina Manuel, chief political affairs officer of Pampanga First District Rep.Carmelo Lazatin Jr. have joined a cause for the benefit of 45 cancer-stricken children.

The event highlighted programs aimed at giving hope and encouragement to young patients.

“This advocacy is very close to my heart,” Manuel said, emphasizing that Kidscancervive Inc. aligns with her shared mission with Calaguas to provide hope, courage, and assistance to children in need.

The event also recognized Abraham Mamangun, a 6-year-old brain tumor patient whom Manuel and Calaguas previously assisted through a successful fund-raising initiative via live selling, which raised ₱100,000. Butch Gunio

“We are implementing a comprehensive security plan that covers all critical areas of Boracay including ports, beaches, and hotels. We have checkpoints, CCTV monitoring, and the deployment of highly trained personnel in each key location,” the Philippine top cop said.

“The safety of our delegates and tourists is our top priority and we are coordinating closely with local government units and other law enforcement agencies,” he added.

Approximately 1,500 personnel from

Chinese importer of luxury cars to be deported—Viado

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has ordered the deportation of Cao Cheng, the alleged importer of the luxury vehicles owned by couple Curlee and Sarah Discaya who were linked to the multibillion-peso flood control controversy.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the bureau was informed by Land Transportation Office (LTO) chief Markus Lacanilao that Cao was arrested on Nov. 27 in Makati for several violations, including obstruction of apprehension and prosecution of a criminal offender, illegal use of alias, false representation, and willful misrepresentation of material information.

Lacanilao said the LTO is also searching for other Chinese nationals connected to ACH Motor Center in Makati City, where Cao is listed as a co-owner.

The LTO has coordinated with the Bureau of Customs to verify whether the company’s high-end vehicles were legally imported.

Viado said documents submitted by the LTO showed that Cao had been using the name “Martin Zhao” in government records. He said the use of a fictitious identity is sufficient grounds for declaring a foreign national undesirable.

“He was found to have fraudulently acquired documentation using a different name, and this is a clear case of misrepresentation,” Viado said. “No foreign national should use fictitious identities in transactions in the Philippines.”

Cao is expected to be transferred to the BI detention facility in Taguig after inquest and medical examination and will be deported, the bureau said.

PRO-6 will be stationed at key locations to ensure the security of roughly 200 delegates visiting the island.

“Let’s ensure that every operation is based on protocol and the rights of every individual. Work closely with community stakeholders, maintain high morale, and always prioritize coordination with other security forces,” Nartatez said.

“Our presence is to provide security. The eyes of ASEAN and the world are on us so we must perform with excellence,” he added.

By Maricel V. Cruz

CLOSE to 100 lawmakers from Metro Manila and Mindanao have declared their full and unwavering support for Speaker Faustino Dy III, referring to his leadership as essential to restoring integrity, stability, and public trust in the House of Representatives.

The Metro Manila representatives, comprising 30 out of 33 district lawmakers, and the 67-member Mindanao bloc led by Senior Deputy Speaker Ferdinand Hernandez, issued separate but complementary statements underscoring Dy’s principled leadership, calm approach to governance, and bold push for reforms. Together, the two regions — representing the nation’s political capital and its second-largest island — delivered their strongest collective endorsement yet for the Speaker. Earlier, the 39-strong Northern Luzon Alliance issued a manifesto declaring its “unequivocal support” for Dy, citing his leadership, character, and steady hand in guiding the House.

House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos III of Ilocos Norte, along with Deputy Speakers Kristine SingsonMeehan of Ilocos Sur and Francisco Paolo Ortega V of La Union, led the signatories from the alliance, which comprises lawmakers from Regions I and II and the Cordillera Administrative Region.

Soon after, 44 members of the Partylist Coalition Foundation Inc. reaffirmed their support for Dy amid rumors of a leadership change and praised his efforts to maintain stability, promote dialogue, and ease tensions within the House during a period of political uncertainty.

By Maricel V. Cruz

A BILL filed at the House of Representatives seeks to abolish the estate tax and shift taxation of inherited property to the point of sale through the capital gains tax system. In filing House Bill 6553, Rep. Raymond Adrian Salceda said under the measure, no family will

ON THE MOVE. Firefighters

OPINION

Soil erosion in Zambales towns not true, says DENR

DON’T believe those civil society groups espousing environmental protection in Zambales. Those dime-a-dozen groups espouse advocacies that are not exactly grounded on scientific data and facts.

For instance, their claim that dredging activities in Zambales cause soil erosion is untrue.

An inter-agency committee led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and composed of other agencies like the DPWH, DILG, and DoTr has belied their claims, citing official scientific data and studies by geoscientists who were involved in the study.

The Oct. 28, 2025 report for lawmakers prepared by the DENR Region-3 Office, said the civil society groups’ claim that dredging activities in three Zambales dredging sites in the Sto. Tomas, Maloma, and Bucao Rivers in the town of San Felipe in Zambales have been pursued mainly for purposes of river restoration and flood mitigation.

There was no intention to destroy the environment to cause soil erosion, as the environmental groups claim. The NGOs did not understand the environmental dynamics of the dredging sites.

The official report signed by Engr. Ralph Pablo, DENR Region-3 Executive Director, said the environmental impact study (EIS) which the DENR conducted in accordance with its order, concluded that soil erosion could be minimal—approximately -16.5 meters near the dredge pits.

“No finding of erosional occurrence that can be directly linked to the dredging activity has ever been reported in any of the monitoring activities performed by an inter-agency group on the matter,” the Pablo report said.

To implement the envisioned dredging activities in Zambales, an interagency group composed of the DENR, DPWH, DILG, and DoTR issued in 2019 the Joint Memorandum Circular 1 to provide procedural guidelines, where dredging involved commercial use of dredged materials.

The intention was to provide river restoration to the three river systems that have become heavily silted because of the 1991 Mt. Pinatubo eruption.

Despite its advocacy of environmental protection, those civil society groups, the Pablo report said, failed to understand that the DAO 2019-13 “institutionalizes river dredging as part of a broader river restoration initiative” by restoring “the natural state of and flow of the heavily silted Bucao, Maloma, Sto. Tomas Rivers and to enhance their hydraulic capacity to mitigate flooding” in Zambales.

Hence, the assailed order seeks to protect and manage properly the use of sand and gravel in Zambales to improve water flow of its river systems and ensure the integrity of the various protective dikes and infrastructures, it said.

Moreover, an immediate implementation of a dredging plan that contains large scale dredging and desilting operations eliminates floods, the Pablo report said.

In brief, the dredging activity is officially classified as “river restoration and flood mitigation project” rather than “extractive mining,” the Pablo report clarified. Besides, the environment impact study on the dredging activity is also classified as an “environmentally critical project,” it said.

The Pablo report dismissed the proposal to convene a Multipartite Monitoring Team, saying the Zambales Inter-Agency Committee on River Restoration formed by DAO-2019-13 has conducted probes and monitoring on the dredging activities in Zambales.

Those dime-a-dozen groups espouse advocacies that are not exactly grounded on scientific data and facts

It has issued suspension orders to seven operators. Dredging operations were being monitored twice a day to ensure operators’ compliance with the order, it said.

On the issue of Shuaful Resources’ dredging operations, the Pablo report said: “Shuaful resources Inc. is a legitimate dredging operator whose expertise [is] authorized under DAO 2019-13 to undertake river restoration activities along the heavily silted Sto. Tomas River draining San Felipe, Zambales.

The Inter-Agency Committee and the MMT regularly monitor the company’s activities for River Restoration to ensure full compliance of the dredging plan.”

Shuaful Resources is a permit holder to conduct marine sand dredging in the Sto. Tomas River, but it was heavily fined and suspended for committing infractions of its permit to mine.

The DENR has restored its permit to mine after making commitments to refrain from committing violations of its mining permits.

On the private groups’ call to repeal DAO 2019-13, the Pablo report said:

“DAO 2019-13 remains the legal basis in regulating river restoration and dredging activities.

Administrative rules and regulations enjoy the presumption of regularity and shall remain in effect until declared otherwise by competent authority.

Nevertheless, the Department is currently revisiting the DAO to take into consideration all issues and concerns.”

In short, it is imperative to ignore the civil society organizations in Zambales all claiming to protect the environment since they are way out of line and unable to grasp the importance of science-based dredging operations in the province.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Why supporting Sonny Angara makes sense

IN THE the long arc of Philippine public service, few families have combined technocratic competence with political durability as consistently as the Angaras.

Edgardo Angara was widely praised for his work as University of the Philippines president and for shepherding landmark educational and social reforms.

His intellectual rigor and ability to build consensus were unmatched during a polarizing period in national politics. His career was not without controversy but his lasting contribution lies in institution building.

Few legislators of his generation left behind a portfolio as wide and impactful as Ed Angara.

A full and fair reading of his legacy requires acknowledging both his achievements and the complexities he navigated.

We should however acknowledge that the senior Angara was a central figure behind APECO, a project that deserved criticism for its flaws in process and community impact.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara, the son of Ed Angara, has built a reputation as a policy- oriented and hardworking legis-

lator whose major laws reflect a commitment to practical governance rather than theatrics.

His record stands independently of his surname and must be assessed on its own terms.

Rejecting dynasties as a structural problem should not blind us to competence when it is evident

Rejecting dynasties as a structural problem should not blind us to competence when it is evident.

In his case, the quality of his governance is the best argument for considering him on his own merits.

As Education Secretary, Sonny Angara has shown the same disciplined and technocratic approach that marked his legisla-

EDITORIAL

DepEd’s school-based feeding program

undernutrition.

THE good news is that the Senate has approved a bigger budget for the Department of Education (DepEd) next year that will expand the agency’s school feeding coverage to 4.49 million learners and make Kindergarten and Grade 1 feeding universal for the first time.

With ₱28.66 billion allocated to the School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP)—more than double last year— the daily feeding duration extends to 200 days, while 45-day targeted feeding will support 604,134 junior high school and 200,663 senior high school severely wasted and wasted learners.

An additional 7,276 adolescent pregnant learners will receive nutritional assistance.

The increased budget is consistent with the administration’s vision to prioritize early childhood care and development initiatives.

Under Secretary Sonny Angara’s watch, DepEd has begun implementing a broader SBFP for SY 2025–2026, starting with the inclusion of all Kindergarten learners—not just undernourished ones—as part of a shift toward universal early nutrition.

The program will provide hot meals and fortified food products to Kindergarten and Grade 1 pupils and severely

tive career.

His early months have begun to stabilize a department long affected by fragmentation and shifting agendas.

He follows two very bad education secretaries and the Department has a lot of catching up to do.

What stands out is the team he has built, a group of experts whose collective quality recalls the strong leadership bench under Secretary Armin Luistro during the Aquino years.

This team has focused on long term learning outcomes, teacher development, and operational transparency.

In a department as large as DepEd, the quality of leadership and advisers often determines the success of reforms.

Sonny Angara now faces heightened scrutiny because of corruption allegations that have surfaced.

These charges rest on weak legal grounds that do not show personal participation, intent, or benefit. Philippine jurisprudence requires more than associative claims to prove liability in cases involving government programs.

Nothing publicly available links Senator

wasted and wasted Grade 2 to 6 learners, a move backed by early gains in the field. vious data showed that the number of severely wasted Kindergarten children dropped from 113,451 to 47,281 in a year.

It is a statement of national priorities – and an overdue recognition that hungry children cannot learn

The DepEd initiative will mean stronger support for child nutrition, especially among the poor. The higher budget for the school-based feeding program signals a major government investment in fighting childhood

Angara to any act that meets the threshold for corruption. For these reasons, it is unlikely that the charges will prosper. Making this distinction does not minimize issues that deserve serious concern.

The allegations involving Undersecretary Olayvar appear more concrete and document based. These are the types of claims that require full investigation and transparency from the agency involved.

Defending those who are wrongfully accused does not mean shielding those who may have committed misconduct. Accountability must always follow evidence.

The late Senator Edgardo Angara, supported me generously throughout my career as an academic and government official, and his guidance shaped many of my own engagements with public service. I value that.

Sonny was also my former student at the UP College of Law and showed early signs of the discipline and policy mindset that define his work today.

I have been consistently against political dynasties because the concentration of political power weakens democratic re-

It will also lead to better learning outcomes and classroom readiness, since hungry children cannot focus, absorb lessons, or participate fully in school. Moreover, the program will ensure that students will have higher chances of staying in school despite poverty. For many poor families, sending children to school already imposes costs (transportation, uniform, allowances). Ensuring that children get a reliable daily meal reduces a significant burden and removes one key reason children skip school.

Yet another benefit of the program is that early childhood intervention will yields long-term benefits. By making Kindergarten and Grade 1 feeding universal, the government will focus on building a strong human capital foundation.

This is an investment that will pay off later through healthier adults with better educational attainment and higher productivity.

At a time when poverty continues to weigh heavily on millions of Filipino families, the Senate’s decision to more than double the program’s allocation to ₱28.66 billion is not merely an administrative adjustment. It is a statement of national priorities – and an overdue recognition that hungry children cannot learn.

newal.

This belief does not prevent recognizing when an individual official has earned support based on personal merit.

Supporting Sonny Angara does not contradict democratic principles when the support is grounded in performance and integrity. His work as senator and education secretary shows competence that stands apart from dynasty politics.

At the same time, his father’s legacy should be remembered with both admiration and critical reflection.

Responsible public debate requires distinguishing genuine issues from politically charged allegations.

The Angaras deserve to be assessed with fairness, nuance, and an understanding of the complexities of Philippine politics.

Weighing everything, I fully support Sonny Angara and believe he will be one of the best education secretaries this country will ever have.

Facebook, X, Instagram, and BlueSky: tonylavs Website: tonylavina.com

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: A two-headed monster: one head is a typhoon (wind, rain, waves), the other a vampire (symbolizing corruption). The typhoon head hits the poor neighborhoods; the vampire head sucks the resources intended for flood control and disaster mitigation. Citizens cower below, trapped between nature and corruption.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Putin

visits India for

deeper trade, defense talks

NEW DELHI – President Vladimir Putin is set to begin a two-day visit to India on Thursday, seeking to deepen defense ties even as New Delhi faces growing US pressure to stop buying Russian oil.

The Russian leader, making his first trip to India since the start of the Ukraine war, will be accompanied by a delegation that includes his Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, with media reports saying a fighter jet deal may be on the table.

Putin is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday for a private dinner, followed by a summit meeting and a business gathering the next day.

Beyond defense, trade relations are expected to be on the agenda as Delhi treads a tightrope, relying on strategic Russian imports while seeking to avoid angering US President Donald Trump amid ongoing tariff negotiations.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the supply of Russia’s advanced S-400 air defense systems had an “important place on the agenda.”

India currently has three S-400 units, with delivery of two more pending under a 2018 deal stalled by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and ensuing Western sanctions.

Media reports in India suggested Moscow may also offer co-production of Russia’s Su-57 fighter jets. India is one of the world’s top arms importers, with Russia being one of its main suppliers historically, but Delhi in recent years has sought to boost domestic production. AFP

IN BRIEF

Eurovision debates call to boycott Israel

GENEVA – Israel’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest will be debated at a two-day meeting of member broadcasters in Geneva starting Thursday, following calls to exclude the country over its Gaza war tactics.

Countries including Iceland, Ireland, Spain and the Netherlands, have threatened in recent months to pull out of the 2026 contest if Israel takes part.

Others, including Belgium, Finland and Sweden, have also indicated they were considering a boycott over the situation in Gaza.

In justifying its decision, Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS highlighted a “serious violation of press freedom” by Israel in Gaza.

It accused Israel of “proven interference... during the last edition of the Song Contest” -- in which it came second -- by lobbying the public overseas to vote for it.

The European Broadcasting Union, which organizes the glitzy competition, had planned to convene member broadcasters in November for a vote on the issue. AFP

Seoul says 6 nationals held in North Korea

SEOUL – South Korea’s presidential office confirmed Thursday six of its citizens have been captive in North Korea for years, after President Lee Jae Myung appeared unaware of their plight during a briefing with foreign media.

Asked Wednesday about South Koreans detained in the North, Lee replied:

“It’s my first time ever hearing about this.”

Lee’s office later followed up with a statement saying that six nationals -- including Christian missionaries and North Korean defectors -- have been held since their arrests “between 2013 and 2016 on charges of espionage, among others”.

Four of them have been named by Pyongyang, which has accused them of espionage -- a charge carrying severe penalties, including death, in the authoritarian country.

“In the current situation, where interKorean dialogue and exchanges have been suspended for an extended period, the suffering of our people caused by division continues,” it said. AFP

Hepatitis B vaccine faces scrutiny in US

WASHINGTON, DC – Experts appointed by the Trump administration’s vaccine-skeptic Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr are expected to review newborn hepatitis B vaccines on Thursday (Friday, Manila time), considering whether to delay the shots despite opposition from many doctors.

The newly anointed Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices members are slated to meet for two days in Atlanta, Georgia, to follow-up on a September meeting that resulted in new recommendations for COVID-19 and measles vaccinations. Under Kennedy, ACIP has initiated a broad review of the safety of several vaccines, some of which have been in use for decades.AFP

Macron asks Xi to work for peace

Venezuelans divided on US military buildup

DORAL, Florida – As the United States deploys more military forces and carries out airstrikes on boats in the Caribbean, Venezuelans in South Florida are divided over what President Donald Trump’s next moves should be.

Most people in the diaspora here long for a new leader to replace President Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela, a country that hundreds of thousands have fled amid economic and political crisis in recent years.

“If there’s one common sentiment among all Venezuelans, it’s the hatred we have toward Chavismo and Maduro,” said Andrea Gonzalez, 38, referring to the left-wing ideology named for Madu-

ro’s predecessor, the late Hugo Chavez. But differences arise over how to remove Maduro.

Some say force is the only option, especially after Maduro proclaimed himself president again in 2024 in elections that were deemed fraudulent by the opposition and other countries alike.

Others, fearful of the casualties of war, prefer to exhaust diplomatic avenues.

While the Trump administration has said it is targeting “narco-terrorists,” many question the true motivation behind Washington’s sudden military interest in the South American country with the most oil reserves on Earth.

BEIJING – French

President Emmanuel Macron appealed to Xi Jinping to help end the war in Ukraine and tackle trade deficits as the two leaders met in Beijing’s Great Hall on Thursday.

For Macron, making his fourth visit to China while in office, the three-day trip is an opportunity to shore up support for a ceasefire in Europe’s deadliest conflict since WWII, as well as to attract more Chinese investment in France.

The country’s trade deficit with the world’s second-largest economy grew to 46 billion euros ($54 billion) in 2024. Xi and First Lady Peng Liyuan gave Macron and his wife Brigitte a grand, red-carpet welcome to the Chinese capital, complete with an honor guard and row of flag-waving children. All smiles as he entered the cavernous hall, Macron blew kisses to the crowd while a band played the national anthems of both countries.

After the ceremony, Macron told Xi that France and China must overcome their “differences”.

The Chinese leader echoed Macron, calling for “more stable” ties. Their tete-a-tete comes amid fresh attempts to broker an end to the nearly four-year war in Ukraine, with Macron leading a push to counter a US-backed plan widely criticized for echoing Russia’s demands.

“We must continue to work towards peace and stability in the world, and in Ukraine and other regions affected by war,” Macron told Xi, adding: “Our capacity to work together is decisive.”

“The conflict poses a vital threat to European security, but also to respect for the international order based on the rule of law,” he said.

Xi stressed Beijing’s support for a ceasefire.

From Caracas, Maduro has long claimed Washington intends to overthrow him. AFP

Within the diaspora, Trump’s image has been tarnished by his own immigration policy, which has cracked down on Venezuelans despite their overwhelming support for his pressure on Caracas. In recent weeks, Washington has sent the world’s largest aircraft carrier to the Caribbean, along with a fleet of warships, and Trump declared Venezuelan airspace “completely closed” for a supposed operation against drug trafficking. Trump also said that operations “by land” to stop alleged drug traffickers were imminent.

PROLONGED FLOODING. Villagers use a makeshift cable car to cross the river after the

from

and

was

“China supports all efforts committed to peace and hopes that all parties will reach a fair, lasting and binding peace agreement that is acceptable to all parties through dialogue and negotiation,” he said. AFP

Israel awaits return of last hostage body from Gaza

by a flash flood in Bireuen, Indonesia’s Aceh province, on Tuesday. The

struck Indonesia’s Sumatra island since last week has risen to 712, the National Disaster Management Agency said. Close to 900 people have been killed in floods and landslides that have wreaked havoc in Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam. AFP

Most EU citizens see ‘high risk’ of war between bloc and Russia

PARIS – A majority of citizens across nine EU countries see a high risk of war breaking out between the bloc’s members and Russia, according to a survey by polling group Cluster 17 published Thursday in the French international affairs journal Le Grand Continent.

The poll’s findings, based on a sample of almost 10,000 people from the nine countries, come more than three-anda-half years into the conflict sparked by Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine and amid fears the war could spread further.

France’s top general Fabien Mandon last month warned Russia was preparing for a new confrontation by 2030. Russian President Vladimir Putin said Tuesday that if Europe wants war “we are ready right now”.

The poll showed 51 percent of respondents believe there is a “high” or “very high” risk that Russia could go to war with their country in the coming years. The study was conducted with a sample

of 9,553 people at the end of November.

The countries involved in the study were France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, Portugal, Croatia, Belgium and the Netherlands, with samples of more than 1,000 people in each country.

The fear of open conflict with Russia varied.

In Poland, which has borders with Russia and its ally Belarus, 77 percent of respondents considered the risk high or very high.

This figure dropped to 54 percent in France and 51 percent in Germany. Meanwhile, 65 percent of Italian respondents considered the risk low or nonexistent.

A large majority of 81 percent, meanwhile, said there is little or no chance of a war with China in the coming years. With a debate intensifying in Europe over military service and France reintroducing a form of voluntary military service, respondents expressed doubt over the capabilities of their armed forces against Moscow. AFP

US lands at Simon Bolivar International Airport in Maiquetia, Venezuela, on Dec.3, 2025 (Thursday, Manila time). Venezuela announced it had reauthorized flights carrying migrants deported by the US, days after suspending them due to President Donald Trump’s demand that Venezuelan airspace be considered “closed.” AFP

bridge

destroyed

death toll

floods

landslides that have

Llover defends OPBF title in 4th fight of ‘25

UNDEFEATED Filipino prospect

Kenneth Llover will close out a busy year with a fourth ring appearance, putting his OPBF bantamweight title on the line against Ayati Sailike on December 27 at the Aichi Sky Expo in Tokoname, Japan.

The 22-year-old rising star is coming off a blistering first-round knockout of Luciano Baldor last October in Kyrgyzstan. All three of Llover’s fights this year have ended in stoppages, and he’s aiming to deliver another emphatic finish before turning the page to 2026.

“This is my last fight of the year, and I want no less than an impressive performance to defend my OPBF bantamweight title,” Llover said in a statement.

“This is the kind of activity that I have always hoped for in my career, and I thank my promoters, Gerry Peñalosa and Kameda Promotions, for making it happen. Philippines, this one is for you!”

Altas seek equalizer vs. Knights

By Dennis Abrina

THE University of Perpetual Help System Dalta Altas are set for a crucial showdown against the Letran Knights in Game 2 of the Best-of-Three semifinals of the #NCAASeason101 men’s basketball tournament on Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena. For coach Olsen Racela’s Altas, the mission is clear -- win Game 2 to force a winner-take-all Game 3. Should they succeed, the do-or-die match will be played on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.

Former two-division world champion Gerry Peñalosa, who guides Llover’s career, believes his fighter is inching closer to championship contention. With key slots in the IBF bantamweight rankings currently vacant, Peñalosa sees the window opening for a world title shot in 2026.

“With the number one and two spots in the IBF world bantamweight ranking vacant, the three and four spots reportedly fighting, and Kenneth placed in the top five, we may be looking at a world title fight for him next year,” Peñalosa said.

“But first, we have to overcome this test in front of us. He is not an opponent we can overlook. Our team is laser-focused on getting the job done on December 27 because only after we win that fight can we afford to look forward.”

More details about Llover’s title defense will be announced soon.

4 giants face off as Futsal World Cup semis heats up

FOUR titans out for domination seek to step closer to their goal Friday as they fight for slots to the finals of the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup at the PhilSports Arena.

Brazil, the top-ranked team in the planet, and Spain the No. 2 side, go mano a mano in a slambang semifinal fixture at 8:30 p.m. brimming with world-class futsal talent, flair and pride.

The other side of the Last-4 pits No. 3 Portugal and No. 6 Argentina in another explosive matchup between a European power and a South American heavyweight, at 6 p.m.

Winners will get a shot at the coveted gold in the 16-nation meet backed by

the Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Football Federation and the honor as the first-ever Futsal Women’s World Cup champions in a winnertake-all duel on Sunday.

The two losers, meanwhile, will dispute the bronze. The epic semifinal matchups feature some of the brightest names in the fastpaced indoor game.

Leading Brazil is Emilly, the 2024 Best Women’s Player who is surrounded by excellent teammates like Ana

Debora Vanin and Amandhina. Twins Irene and Laura Cordoba, who had combined for nine goals, six assists and three Player of the Match awards, anchor Spain with Irene Samper and Vane Sotelo also expected to shine. For Portugal, there’s Janice Silva, Fifo and Lidia Moreira. Argentina would be without ace Silvina Nava, who is serving suspension, but the side remains potent with the likes of Carina Nunez and Lucia Rossi ready to take the cudgels.

Uy makes history as first Filipina Ultraman WC finisher

MANY are called, but few are chosen.”

In the world of ultradistance racing, this isn’t just a saying – it’s a warning. The Ultraman World Championship exists to break even the toughest athletes.

Over the weekend in Hawaii, Jennifer Tan Uy proved she was unbreakable, becoming the first Filipina to finish the Ultraman World Championship.

“When I crossed the finish line, I wanted the world to see that Filipinos can,” said Uy, her voice carrying

one across any finish line.

the exhaustion of enduring 320 miles (515kms) across three brutal days.

“This milestone is for the Philippines. It is a symbol of what Filipinos can do.”

Held on the Big Island, the Ultraman is one of the most punishing ultra-endurance triathlons on earth: 515 kilometers through open water, unforgiving bike climbs and a soul-crushing run.

With only 20 elite athletes invited this year, the competition was ruthless. Several fell short, but Uy wasn’t one of them.

She endured, she finished, and she did it while carrying the Philippine flag into the record books.

Uy opened with a demanding 4:39:41 swim over 6.2 miles (10 km), followed by a 7:17:57 finish in the 90-mile (144 km) bike leg to close Day 1. Day 2 saw her push through anoth-

The right foot for the right sport

THIS may be too late for now, but then again, some arguments are valid at least from someone, who watched the game on the sidelines. When the Philippine National Women’s Futsal Team, also known as the Filipina5, took on Argentina last week, there were no pretensions that the team would beat La Albiceleste in their last game in the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025 at the PhilSports Arena. A decent game would be enough for the 2,811 souls, who were present.

The Filipina5 lost, 5-1, against the White and Sky Blue. Even before fans could warm up their seats, the visitors were already up by three in the fourth minute, with goals coming from Lara Villalba (2’), Lucia Natta (4’) and Mailen Romero (4’). The game was practically over by the 7th minute after Agostina Chiesa punished the local side after a bad inbound to make it a 4-0 game. The score was 5-0 after the first half.

Despite the lopsided score and defi-

cit, the local crowd went wild on every touch by the Filipina5, which obviously ran to a brick wall against an Argentin -

ian side missing its best player due to an injury. Isabella Bandoja’s goal in the second half was enough to fire up the local fans, who have been treated to a clinical game by the Latin American side. Some fans commented that if the final half was the sole basis for the result, we could have won the match (After a blistering start, Argentina cooled and failed to score a goal in the final half).

The Designated Kit Man may not know much about futsal, but somehow I’ve noticed several reasons why the Argentines are on a different level compared to our team, and to a certain extent above the competition in general.

First, they control and dribble the ball with their heels. Most of the Filipina5 took the ball using their shoes. Probably because most of them, if not half, were football players.

Second, there is no offside in futsal. I might be wrong, but during the rare instance when our team was in the offensive, they were a tad bit behind resulting in a turnover or an error. Again, the football factor.

Third, there was no anchor to set the offense right with the winger doing most of the job of bringing the ball on our side of the court. Because of this, our offense was predictable and easy for Argentina to pick apart. Argentina, too, was predictable, but in a good way at least. When their anchor is in the mid-

dle of the court, they are most likely to strike at the goal, which happened in the first four minutes of the game. In the second half, La Albiceleste literally coasted the rest of the way with a few opportunities to pad their lead, but then the game was already in the bag, way before. It was also observed that their anchor no longer stayed in the middle of the court, which indicated that they no longer prioritized scoring, thankfully or else the deficit could have been much bigger. It could also be because of Kayla Santiago’s exceptional performance coming off the bench to man the post in the final half. Another factor is the laser sharp finishing of Argentina. The discipline, the patience, the mentality and the focus of the team in finding the back of the net despite tight angles spoke much of the finishing technique that is unique to futsal. This finishing and killer instinct transpired in seconds, pouncing on every error, defensive lapse and opportunity.

Bandoja exhibited these traits, too, in scoring her own goal in the game, which happened on a transition and in a matter of seconds. Philippine Futsal at its best.

So what’s the main takeaway in the game?

For me, it was simple. You can’t bring football players to a futsal game. At least not yet when it comes to our national futsal team. It is like bringing a sword in a gun battle. Unlike in a Star Wars movie, where a lightsaber trumps out a blaster, futsal is a

er 171.4 miles of cycling, completing it in 11:28:16 for a two-day total of 23:25:54 on the bike.

On Day 3, she confronted the notorious 52.4-mile (84.3 km) double marathon, finishing in 10:34:11 for an overall time of 34:00:05. Her performance placed her third among women and 13th overall – though Ultraman is less about podiums and more about survival and personal conquest.

Perpetual Help is coming off a hardfought, physical 77-73 loss in Game 1. The Las Piñas-based squad started strong, leading, 14-10, in the first quarter, but struggled to recover after the Knights unleashed a dominant 43-24 scoring run in the second quarter, establishing an advantage that proved too difficult to overcome.

Letran’s Titing Manalili was hailed as the Best Player of the Game, delivering an impressive line of 15 points, 5 rebounds, 8 assists, and 6 steals across 34 minutes of action.

Leading the charge for the Altas were Patrick Sleat with 21 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and a block; John Abis with a near double-double of 20 points, 9 boards, 2 assists, and 3 steals; and Mark Derick Gojo Cruz with 10 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists.

Ahead of the crucial Game 2, coach Racela emphasized the need for a stronger collective effort, telling the press that he is seeking much-needed help from his bench, especially his second unit, to secure the victory.

The Altas will not be short on motivation, as over 1,900 Perpetual students, faculty, and officials are expected to be in attendance to boost the morale of their beloved school.

Perpetual Help is aiming to return to the NCAA Finals for the first time since Season 80 (2004), when they faced the eventual champion Philippine Christian University Dolphins.

The race’s champion, Alex Kniazeu, recorded 21:27:36, but in Ultraman, every finisher earns the same medal because beating the course is the true victory.

different matter compared to football, even if the former is a variation of the latter. Bandoja, Inday Tolentin and Santiago come from a solid futsal background, which showed during the group fixtures. Not to belittle the contributions of other members of the team, I think we should at least fielded or given more playing time to our futsal players in the last game. For sure, there are so many reasons why and probably more explanations, but then again, it is a futsal tournament. There is no learning curve at this level of competition. Only the best should be at this kind of tournament, simply because it is the Futsal World Cup, after all. By the way, Argentina will take on Portugal, while Spain faces Brazil in the semifinals of the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025. The Philippine Football Federation has released the national teams for the upcoming Southeast Asian Games 2025 in Thailand. The Under 22 squad looks strong with an array of players coming from the men’s national team. Sandro Reyes, Santi Rublico, Javier Mariona, Dylan Demunyck and Alex Monis will banner the squad that hopefully will bring a medal (regardless of color) in the biennial games. The U22 team will start their campaign in Group C tonight against Myanmar, 6 p.m. Thailand time or 7 p.m. PST at the Chiang Mai Stadium. They will go up against Indonesia on Monday, December 8. The Philippine Women’s National Football Team is also formidable with goal keeper Liv McDaniel leading the team. Joining her are Filipinas Nina Meollo, Inna Palacios, Angela Beard, Malea Cesar, Jessika Cowart, Janae DeFazio, Hali Long, Ariana Markey, Azumi Oka, Sofia Wunsch, Alessandra Carpio, Anicka Castaneda, Sara Eggesvik, Kaya Hawkinson, Isabella Passion, Alexa Pino and Jacklyn Sawicki. Forwards include Jael-Marie Guy, Nina Mathelus, Megan Murray, Mallie Ramirez and Meryll Soriano. The Filipinas will also start their bid for another medal in Group B

The Designated Kit Man

Erel Cabatbat

Spain players celebrate after their 6-1 hammering of Group A second seed Morocco.

Luiza,

With the Philippine flag held high, Jennifer Uy celebrates becoming the first Filipina to finish the brutal Ultraman World Championship – proof that endurance, heart, and national pride can carry

The Perpetual

Altas

Kenneth Llover

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO,

Blue Eagles’ Cariño brims with confidence ahead of SEAG

ATENEO de Manila University mid-

fielder Dov Cariño is on a mission: to help the Philippine Men’s Under-23 National Team finally secure a gold medal at this month’s 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.

Already seasoned from competing in major regional tournaments like the 32nd SEA Games and the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024, Cariño is determined to turn the country’s longstanding near-misses into triumph.

Cariño, who has netted five goals for the Blue Eagles in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament, praised the squad’s atmosphere and training quality, highlighting the players’ readiness for the challenge ahead.

“Preparations for the SEA Games have been great. Training has been top quality, and the squad’s morale is very positive,” said the 21-year-old standout.

“The goal of the U-23 team this SEA Games is definitely to go home with gold. We believe that we have the capacity to do so, and anything less would be disappointing.”

It’s been a whirlwind few months for Cariño, who has been a consistent presence in international U-23 competitions such as the ASEAN U-23 Mandiri Cup 2025 and the 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers, all while fulfilling his commitments with Ateneo.

As the Blue Eagles’ captain, he has steered the team to fourth in the standings, keeping them on track for a Final Four appearance when Season 88 resumes next month. Off the pitch, Cariño also balances his academic responsibilities while attending the national team’s training camp.

“Playing in UAAP this year has helped me get physically and mentally ready for these international tournaments,” said Cariño.

Ramirez leads PSA achievers in

November

FROM regional and Continental supremacy, jiu-jitsu ace Annie Ramirez brought her dominance to the global stage.

The Filipina warrior struck gold at the JJIF World Championships in Bangkok with a smashing run capped by a 2-0 victory over Astrid Scholin of Sweden in the adult -57kg Gi division then annexed the mint in the -57kg No-Gi event for a rare double-triumph for Team Philippines.

This feat at the worlds completed the former UST judoka’s gold-medal harvest in every major competition beginning with the Southeast Asian Games, Asian Games, Asian Championships, AIMAG and Asian Beach Games.

For this, Ramirez earned the nod as the Philippine Sportswriters Association’s top achiever for November 2025.

Her jiu-jitsu teammate, Kimberly Anne Custodio, billiards player Jonas Magpantay, and young gymnast Karl Eldrew Yulo, also ranked high in the scribes’ honor roll for the month.

Custodio captured her third world title also at the Thai capital after submitting UAE’s Aysha Alshamsi via armbar in the championship match of the adult female -45kg division.

From virtual unknown, Magpantay rose to prominence with his Cinderella run at the Qatar World Cup 10-Ball in Doha, where he took down a slew of giants like Carlo Biado and Oliver Szolnoki on his way to the biggest win of his career.

In front of home supporters that included his older brother, Paris Olympics double gold medalist Carlos Yulo, Eldrew Yulo dazzled to podium finishes in the floor exercise and horizontal bar apparatuses at the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships in Pasay City.

PH shooting team snares

2 silvers, bronze in Taipei

By Peter Atencio

THE Philippine shooting team, preparing for the Southeast Asian Games, picked up two silvers and a bronze medal in the recent Taipei International Grand Prix’s rifle and shotgun events.

Amparo “Ampao Acuna, the topperforming Filipina in the 47th Southeast Asia Shooting Championships in Bangkok, led the way as Team Philippines captured the women’s 50m rifle 3-positions team silver medal.

She was with teammates Denise Basila and Venus Lovelyn Tan. On the other hand, the Philippine women’s pistol team took the silver medal, through the performances of Franchette Quiroz, Christine Valdez and Maritess Guerrero

SBP announces Gilas Pilipinas roster for Thailand SEA Games

THE Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has officially announced the final 12man lineup for the Gilas Pilipinas Men’s national team, which will represent the country at the upcoming 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.

Under the guidance of head coach Norman Black, the fourth iteration of the Gilas squad features a mix of veteran and rising talents.

The team will be composed of Jamie Malonzo, Dalph Panopio, Thirdy Ravena, Matthew Wright, Ray Parks, Cedric Manzano, Justin Chua, Robert Bolick, Von Pessumal, Allen Liwag, Abu Tratter, and VJ Pre.

The SBP confirmed that the submission of the final roster followed a “tedious back and forth” process, primarily due to initially unclear and frequently changing

The Philippines women’s shotgun trap team claimed a bronze medal, behind team members Lydia Cuyong, Valerie Levanza, and Cathy Levanza.

The men’s trap squad of Jethro Dionesio, Eric Ang, and Hagen Topacio finished in fourth place. Acuna’s silver-medal finish with her teammates, comes a month following her stint in the 47th South-

rules regarding player eligibility. “We at the SBP have submitted this list to the local organizing committee, and it has been vetted and has undergone pre-approvals,” the federation stated.

The organization expressed gratitude to the players for their commitment, acknowledging the sacrifices made to join the national team pool. “We extend our deepest appreciation to all the players for dropping everything to compete for Gilas,” the statement read.

Additionally, the SBP thanked its crucial partners across the basketball landscape for their cooperation in releasing the players. Special thanks were given to the PBA, the UAAP, the NCAA, and the Japanese BLeague, whose players were permitted to compete for flag and country.

she earned a silver and a bronze and broke her own national record.

Back then, Acuna’s silver medal came in the prone position women’s 50-meter rifle event, while she and her teammates Basila and Tan also brought home a bronze medal. Acuna, who is competing with the support of the Atletang Ayala program, mance keep them focused for the coming campaign

PAI confident young PH aquatics’ team can deliver in Bangkok SEAG

THE Philippine Aquatics, Inc. (PAI) is optimistic that the country’s youthful, but highly skilled national aquatics’ squad will strengthen the Philippines’ medal campaign in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games set from December 9 to 22 in Bangkok, Thailand.

PAI Secretary General Eric Buhain said the Bangkok-bound swimmers, divers, open water and water polo teams represent the best of the nation’s current talent pool—battle-tested athletes with international exposure and proven ability to compete with the region’s elite.

“No doubt, this team is the best of the best,” said the swimming legend and Philippine Sports Hall-of-Famer.

“They all made the cut through tough national tryouts, with our swimmers surpassing the bronze-medal times from the previous SEA Games as our qualifying standard.”

Buhain noted that with support from the Philippine Sports Commission and

“We

During their Serbia camp—made possible through a partnership initiated by Serbian national coach Filip Stojanovic—the men’s water polo squad even faced top Serbian club teams in exhibition matches. “It’s a young team and it’s their first SEA Games. I can’t promise a gold medal, but they are capable of springing surprises. Whatever the color of the medal, I am proud of this team,” Stojanovic said. Buhain also met with the athletes shortly after their return from Serbia to assess their progress.

“No pressure, but we aim for gold for the country,” he said. “That should always be our mindset when competing internationally. Gone are the days when we were satisfied with gaining experience. The strongest teams in the region will be there, and if we can win in the SEA Games, our chances improve for the Asian Games and even the Olympics.”

Members of the Philippine women’s pistol team show o their medals.

Dov Cariño

Robert Bolick

Buhain with members of the Philippine water polo men’s team the MVP Sports Foundation, foreignbased athletes continued their training with top institutions in the United States and Canada. Local swimmers, meanwhile,

tional coaches led by Ramil Ilustre.

Makati posted nearly P3.9m in per capita income in 2024

MAKATI City recorded the highest per capita income among the Philippines’ highly-urbanized cities in 2024, posting P3.889 million, or nearly 20 times the national average of P197,325, according to a special release from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

The figure makes Makati, a hub for corporate headquarters with a residential population just over 300,000, the wealthiest among 33 highly-urbanized cities in the country.

Per capita gross domestic product (GDP) is calculated by dividing the GDP of a province or highly-urbanized city by its total population from the 2024 census.

Makati’s P3.889 million per capita GDP led the 115 economies—82 provinces and 33 highly-urbanized cities—whose economic performance was assessed by the PSA.

Thirty-one of these economies posted an annual per capita GDP higher than the national per capita in 2024, according to the PSA.

Following Makati, the top 10 were dominated by cities in the National Capital Region.

Pasay City ranked second with a per capita GDP of P792,368, followed by Mandaluyong with P687,756.

San Juan ranked fourth with P687,469; followed by Pasig with P601,653; Manila with P546,412; Paranaque with P521,065; Taguig with P501,732; and Muntinlupa with P494,566.

Baguio City was the only city outside the National Capital Region to make the top 10, posting P485,433.

REAFFIRMING President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to fast-track the provision of assistance to calamityaffected workers, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) began providing emergency employment interventions as early as the Kanlaon Volcano eruption and continued through succeeding calamities, reaching 381,513 individuals nationwide, offering them hope for recovery and a fresh start.

Following the two recent typhoons that battered the country this November, DOLE immediately mobilized the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program, providing PHP 843 million worth of temporary wages to over 160,000 beneficiaries.

According to the DOLE Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC), the Labor Department’s response to Typhoon Tino has benefited 68,349 affected workers through emergency employment, amounting to over PHP 363 million across Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, and Caraga.

Meanwhile, following Super Typhoon Uwan, the Department has assisted 91,699 workers still under TUPAD with wages totaling PHP 480 million in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Cagayan Valley Region, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, Bicol, and Western Visayas.

PH exports likely to post strong year-end growth

By Othel V. Campos

Philippine exports are expected to finish the year on a strong note, sustaining positive momentum through November and December, although the government revised down its medium-term growth targets due to softer global demand and geopolitical risks.

Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) director Bianca Sykimte said Thursday that full-year export growth is likely to be positive, supported by consistently strong monthly figures since mid-2025.

“Even if we only expect the historical average, it’s going to be a positive growth for Philippine exports. We’re

able to bank on the good performance in the last five months,” Sykimte said on the sidelines of the National Exporters’ Week.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that from June to October, monthly export receipts averaged $7.2 billion, a significant jump from the previous norm of $5 billion

DOLE brings aid to 160K typhoon-affected beneficiaries

DOLE IN ACTION. Thousands of displaced and calamity-affected workers nationwide benefit from emergency employment and assistance under Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) and the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP). Photos from

to $6 billion, providing confidence for continued upward trends in the final two months of the year.

The Export Development Council (EDC) has adopted more conservative export goals under the Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) 2023–2028, following a midterm assessment that reflected softer global demand and uneven performance across key industries.

Under the updated outlook, exports are now projected at $110.8 billion in 2025, $116.1 billion in 2026, $123.3 billion in 2027 and $132.8 billion in 2028.

These figures are lower than the earlier Philippine Development Plan benchmarks of $113.4 billion, $120.2

billion, $127.4 billion and $135.1 billion for the same period. The revision foresees annual growth of 3.6 percent to 7.7 percent through 2028. The EDC said the recalibrated figures “reflect tempered export growth based on global demand and recent performance of key sectors.”

Despite the adjustments, the Philippines has sustained its recovery, surpassing the $100-billion export mark in the first year of the PEDP and posting record export levels since 2022. Sykimte said the EMB and EDC now utilize a range-based target, with the original Philippine Development Plan figures serving as the upper band. The lower band reflects the need for flexibility amid global uncertainties including political tensions, potential US tariff adjustments, disruptions in shipping routes and earlier challenges such as the Panama Canal drought and Red Sea security risks.

Sur have received a fresh start and renewed hope through P2.8 million worth of livelihood assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), as part of its nationwide campaign to eliminate child labor. Under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), the Surigao del Sur Field Office

to address the root causes of child labor through sustainable livelihood interventions. Turnover ceremonies were held separately in partnership with the local governments of Tandag and Tago. The assistance enables parents to launch small businesses such as food vending, motorcycle repair, retailing, and grooming services—providing alternative income sources to support their families and keep children out of hazardous work. “Salamat sa DOLE sa paghatag nan higayon sa amo na maka-negosyo para sa amo pamilya,” said one grateful beneficiary. (Thank you, DOLE, for giving us the opportunity to start a livelihood for our families.)

PACIFIC PROJECTS. World Bank Group President Ajay Banga and Asian Development Bank President Masato Kanda announce the first two Pacific projects to be delivered under the Full Mutual Reliance Framework, an innovative cofinancing model that will boost development impact. The framework will allow countries

DOLE PARTNERS WITH

(Left photo) The

Atty. Sarah Buena S. Mirasol (second from left) spearheaded the signing of the Memorandum of

Trinidad (leftmost), AVP - Human Resources of Alfamart Trading Philippines Inc., to advance youth

by creating

work opportunities. (Right Photo) DOLE Assistant Secretary Joel M. Gonzales (second from left) poses

on the spot during the DOLE job fair in Pasay City. Photos by

ECOSPARK. Manila Water, through its

Operations (EZBO) Accounts Development and

EcoSpark: Igniting Synergies for the

a

initiative that brings

to

featured a

and

The

at La Mesa Ecopark, where 250 seedlings were planted in a dedicated area named in honor of Rockwell Property Management Corp. and Rockwell Workspaces.

Citicore secures P3.975-b loan from BPI for 113-MW solar project

By Alena Mae S. Flores

CITICORE Renewable Energy Corp. (CREC) has secured a P3.975 billion project finance loan facility agreement with the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) to finance the completion of its 113-megawatt peak (MWp) Citicore Solar Pangasinan (CS Pangasinan) 2 project in Binalonan, Pangasinan.

CS Pangasinan 2 is one of CREC’s projects, bringing the company closer to its goal of achieving the first of five gigawatts in five years.

Currently under construction, the project received a Certificate of Energy Project of National Significance (CEPNS) from the Department of

Energy (DOE), accelerating the processes needed for its timely completion before year-end.

“The success of our goals goes hand-in-hand with the trust and confidence of those who choose to partner with us. With BPI, the oldest and one of the largest financial institutions in

the Philippines, partnering with us through this project finance agreement, we strengthen our ability to deliver on our commitments and continue championing renewable energy in the country,” said Oliver Tan, CREC president and chief executive.

Louie Cruz, BPI Institutional Banking head, said the partnership reflects the bank’s commitment to financing projects that drive sustainable progress.

“By supporting CREC, we are enabling investments that not only deliver clean energy solutions but also create lasting positive impact for the communities.”

The facility signing was held on Dec. 3, 2025, led by CREC chairman Edgar Saavedra, Tan, CREC

EEI board approves P11.41b liability acquisition

CONSTRUCTION firm EEI Corp. said Thursday its board approved two major corporate actions, including the acquisition of P11.41 billion worth of liabilities by a wholly owned subsidiary and the land consolidation of two real estate firms.

In a disclosure to the stock exchange, EEI said it approved the acquisition of the liabilities of First Orient International Ventures Corp. (FOIVC).

The liabilities will be exchanged for unissued FOIVC shares. The company said the assignment of these liabilities is subject to creditor consent, while the issuance of shares requires SEC approval.

The board also approved the consolidation of two wholly owned subsidiaries, EEI Limited and EEI Realty Corp. (ERC).

The firms will be merged under EEI Ventures Inc.

(EVI), the company’s designated investment and holding firm for its real estate and emerging businesses.

The transaction will be implemented through a share-swap agreement in which EVI will issue 300 million shares to EEI in exchange for 100 percent ownership of EEI Limited and ERC.

“The move is intended to sharpen strategic focus, improve governance, and enhance long-term value creation,” EEI said.

This strategy will also enable EEI to separate its core construction operations from new growth platforms and provide better alignment of strategy and capital allocation, while allowing real estate and other ventures to develop at a pace and scale suited to their markets.

The consolidation also supports more efficient capital raising, either through partnerships, joint ventures, or an initial public offering (IPO).

chief financial officer Lucia Roderos and deputy chief financial officer Michelle Magdato, Cruz, BPI head of commercial banking Noelito Marcos, BPI Capital head of debt products

Jennifer Ho, and BPI Wealth senior vice president Yvette Mari De Peralta.

CS Pangasinan 2 is one of three CREC projects in Pangasinan province, together with CS Pangasinan in Sta. Barbara, which is also under construction, and Citicore Wind Pangasinan in early development.

All three projects are part of the capacities won by CREC during the DOE’s Green Energy Auction Program 2 (GEA-2) in 2023, securing a 20-year offtake contract with the government.

PH stock index falls below 5,900 as peso weakens versus US dollar

By Jenniffer B. Austria

“The

head.

The peso slid to 59.022 to the U.S. dollar on Thursday from 58.92 on Wednesday.

“Lingering concerns over the Philippines’ economic growth outlook also continued to weigh on sentiment,” he added.

Investors are also awaiting the November inflation rate data, which is slated for release this Friday.

Only the mining and oil and services sectors ended in the green, rising by 1.49 percent and 0.44 percent, respectively.

On the other hand, industrials declined by 0.60 percent, while holding firms slipped by 0.54 percent. Value turnover was thin at P5.39 billion. Losers edged gainers 100 to 81.

Foreign investors were net sellers with outflows of P967.02 million.

International Container Terminal Services Inc. was the day’s top index gainer, up 1.01 percent to P550.50, while San Miguel Corp. was at the bottom, down 3.14 percent to P77.

“Housing non-construction assets under EEI Ventures makes it easier to attract strategic partners or explore future financing options without affecting the parent company’s balance sheet,” EEI said.

Jenniffer B. Austria

Notice is hereby given that KNACK GLOBAL

PHILIPPINES, INC. with office address Unit 402 and 404, 4th Floor, Tech Hub 7 SM City Clark, ClarkMabalacat Angeles Road, SM City Clark Expansion, Dau, Mabalacat City, Pampanga, is applying for registration with the Board of Investments (BOI) as a New Services Export Provider (Business Process Outsourcing-SM City Clark Tech Hub 1) under Tier I (Export Activities-Services

Converge ICT moves enterprise unit to BGC

By Darwin G. Amojelar

CONVERGE ICT Solutions Inc.

has relocated its corporate and large enterprise unit, Converge Global Business Group (GBG), to a new facility in the Asian Century Center in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig City.

imbibe a ‘global’ mindset when dealing with partners,” she said.

Placing the Global Business Group’s headquarters in the premier business district positions Converge at the heart of commerce, which the company expects to significantly enhance collaboration, driving faster innovation and comprehensive digital enablement for enterprise partners.

Converge Global Business Group sales and marketing head Grace JarinCastillo highlighted the operational benefits of the move.

The company said in a statement Thursday the strategic move from the previous location in Reliance IT Center in Pasig City is part of Converge’s broader strategy to transition from a traditional telco to a future-forward technology company focused on aggressively expanding its services across the Southeast Asia technology landscape.

The relocation aims to strengthen Converge’s position in the highly competitive local large enterprise market.

Converge co-founder and president Maria Grace Uy said BGC was chosen for its strong advantages, including its reputation as a central business hub close to potential clients.

“BGC is where the young, talented workforce of multinational companies are congregating and exchanging ideas,” Uy said.

“We want to expose our own techsavvy employees to that habitat and

“By moving closer to the center of business in BGC, we are strategically positioned to better serve and connect with our clients in showcasing digital infrastructure and technology solutions, deepening engagements with our ecosystem of customers and partners,” Castillo said.

She said the modern, innovative hub will also empower employees by providing a highly-connected professional environment conducive to growth and excellence.

The company said the move to BGC is a clear declaration of its commitment to the country’s digital future, underscoring its readiness to propel the nation’s infrastructure and innovation forward.

BIZ HUB. The 70-hectare Biz Hub at LIMA Estate, the first masterplanned Central Business District in Batangas, showcases how lifestyle, progress, and sustainability can seamlessly come together. Biz Hub was born out of a clear need to build a complete ecosystem that supports the nearly 200 locators employing 75,000 Filipinos within LIMA Estate.

BUSINESS

PH to cut rice imports in Q1 next year on strong output

By Othel V. Campos

AGRICULTURE Secretary Francisco Tiu

Laurel Jr. said Wednesday the Philippines will significantly reduce rice import requirements in the first quarter of 2026.

The country is set to lift its fourmonth rice import ban in early January, allowing the Bureau of Plant Industry to resume processing applications. While some rice varieties continued to be imported during the moratorium,

DOTr, BCDA agree to make Clark airport top hub

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) has signed an agreement with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to transform Clark International Airport (CRK) into one of the country’s premier hubs for industrial, manufacturing, transport, and other services.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the DOTr and BCDA to explore ways to foster market access opportunities and facilitate efficient passenger movement at the CRK.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the agreement is crucial in Central Luzon as it will promote the country’s aviation and aerospace sectors, benefiting passengers and the economy.

“This will foster market access and opportunities in Central Luzon. But more than anything, there will be new economic activities because of the IMT,” Lopez said during the agreement signing.

Joshua Bingcang, BCDA president and chief executive, said this will bring in more manufacturing activity and more transport enterprises linked to Clark International Airport.

“It also means a bigger economic contribution from Clark. Our role at BCDA is to make sure the right infrastructure is in place so the airport can expand, and logistics and transport firms can operate here with ease,” he said.

Under the agreement, the DOTr and BCDA, along with the CRK’s private operator, Luzon International Premiere Airport Development (LIPAD) Corp., will establish a location for the Industrial, Manufacturing, Transport (IMT) business and related services at the airport.

The deal will likewise study and explore the feasibility of implementing incentive programs to attract and establish IMT businesses and related services.

Lopez said the establishment of the IMT will drive and attract tourism and spur economic activity in the region to support President Marcos Jr.’s 2023-2028 Philippine Development Plan (PDP).

most commercial shipments were paused as the government assessed local production. “While we value our traditional

New field validations show domestic output remained strong despite several typhoons in the last quarter. Tiu Laurel said damage to standing crops was less severe than earlier projected, thanks to farmer resilience, improved disaster preparedness, and storm timing that spared key rice-producing areas.

The Department of Agriculture now projects a 2025 palay harvest of 19.61 million to 19.89 million metric tons, slightly below the earlier

production of 19.09 million tons, indicating a robust rebound in rice output.

Tiu Laurel also addressed speculation from traditional riceexporting countries expecting the Philippines to resume large-volume imports next year. He warned that the government will prevent foreign suppliers from exploiting the country’s food security measures and encouraged private importers to diversify sources and seek partners that ensure stable pricing and long-term

Knauf, DSWD team up to boost construction skills, livelihood

KNAUF Gypsum Philippines Inc. is scaling up its skills and livelihood programs for construction workers, with a vision to train more than 45,000 workers across the Philippines.

“Our goal is to provide skills training that translates into employment. Through this partnership, anyone 18 and older who wants to learn can be trained. It’s about empowering individuals, creating opportunities, and building a path out of poverty,” said Mark Dewey Sergio, Knauf Gypsum Philippines managing director.

The company plans to expand its Knauf Academy network and deploy mobile training vans to reach farflung areas, ensuring inclusive access to employment opportunities.

The expansion is enabled by a partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Field Office IV-A CALABARZON, formalized at the Knauf Training Academy in Libis, Quezon City.

Anchored on Republic Act 11310, the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) Act, the program supports the national poverty reduction strategy by providing practical skills that lead to real jobs.

Since its establishment in June 2022, the Knauf Academy has trained nearly 850 workers in gypsum board installation and jointing techniques, focusing on lightweight construction for safer, more flexible structures.

Othel

V. Campos

NUSTAR Cebu taps Vivant’s COREnergy for electricity needs

By Alena Mae S. Flores

NUSTAR Resort & Casino Cebu has partnered with Vivant Energy Corp.’s retail electricity arm, COREnergy, for its retail electricity requirements to support the resort’s large-scale, world-class operations.

As one of Cebu’s premier integrated destinations for luxury hospitality, gaming, retail, and entertainment, NUSTAR requires reliable and high-performing energy solutions to sustain its expanding footprint in the region.

“At NUSTAR, we are committed

to creating a world-class destination where every experience is seamless. Partnering with COREnergy supports that commitment by giving us reliable energy solutions that meet the level of excellence our brand demands,” said Trevor Hammond, NUSTAR senior vice president for gaming and integrated resort operations.

Francis Del Val, COREnergy president, said the integrated entertainment facility will significantly benefit from the company’s My Power Platform, allowing them to access competitively

Atimonan coal-fired power plant seeks anchor market

ATIMONAN One Energy Inc.’s 1,200-megawatt (MW) ultra-supercritical coal plant in Quezon province aims to secure an anchor market by participating in Manila Electric Co.’s competitive selection process or the Department of Energy’s (DOE) planned baseload auction.

“We’re making preparations to be able to participate in a CSP by January or participate in a baseload capacity auction, if there is no CSP, with DOE,” said Emmanuel Rubio, Meralco PowerGen Corp. president. MGen is the parent firm of A1E.

“We’re coordinating with DOE the best way to actually get this capacity in since it’s allowed anyway. But we’re expecting that the delivery of this unit is February 2030,” Rubio said. A1E is expected to generate enough power supply to cater to at

least 5 million households (based on an average monthly consumption of 150 kilowatt-hours) or the equivalent energy needs of approximately 1,000 hospitals.

It is also expected to generate as many as 6,000 jobs during the construction phase and around 300 longterm roles once the plant begins operations.

Meanwhile, Rubio said they are working with an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor for the proposed 73-MW Toledo coal plant in Cebu.

“We’re working with an EPC already but we have not signed yet. But the delivery of Toledo is 2028,” he said.

The plant will be located in Daanglungsod, Toledo City, and is being developed by Toledo Power Co.

Rubio said the Toledo plant’s output will be purchased by MGen’s retail electricity supplier for the retail market. Across its portfolio, MGen has a combined net sellable capacity of 5,068 MW from traditional and renewable sources as of July 2025. It plans to double this capacity to 10,346 MW by 2030. Its main subsidiaries include Global Business Power, MGen Renewable Energy Inc., and MGen Gas Energy Holdings Inc. MGen holds stakes in PacificLight Power, a liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility in Singapore, and SP New Energy Corporation, a renewable energy company. MGen has also invested a 40.2 percent stake in an integrated LNG facility in Batangas. Alena mae S. Flores

priced electricity. Through the MyPower Platform, COREnergy gives clients access to real-time consumption data. Its granularity allows consumers to effectively manage costs and make smarter energy decisions.

“Our role is to be an energy solutions provider to businesses by providing smarter and tailorfitted solutions that add value to them. We are very excited to work with NUSTAR in providing them competitively-priced electricity as well as showing them how they consume it via our novel My Power

Platform. With our Power Platform, NUSTAR is able to understand their consumption patterns so they can better plan how to optimize their energy utilization,” Del Val said. The partnership comes as Vivant Corp. incessantly looks for sustainable solutions for businesses that improve everyday living. As the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) officially lowers the contestable threshold to 100 kW starting 2026, this enables more commercial establishments to participate in the Retail Electricity Supply (RES) market.

PEZA not among 10 GOCCs with most complaints—ARTA

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) welcomed the Anti-Red Tape Authority’s (ARTA) clarification that the volume of complaints does not reflect overall agency performance but highlights areas for improvement. PEZA also confirmed it is not among the top 10 most complained government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs).

“PEZA remains committed to delivering efficient, investor-friendly services,” the agency said in a statement. In 2024, PEZA received 11 awards from ARTA—nine Gold and two Silver—for compliance with the Ease of Doing Business law and its consistent

red-carpet service to investors. Its excellence has also been recognized internationally, including in the 2025 U.S. Investment Climate Statement, which cites PEZA as a key facilitator of a competitive and transparent investment environment.

ARTA’s updated rankings for January to October 2025 show the Food and Drug Administration, Land Transportation Office, and Social Security System leading in complaints. ARTA emphasized that complaint numbers indicate areas for improvement rather than agency competence and noted that grievance mechanisms are functioning and accessible.

Othel V. Campos

The Department of Transportation and Bases Conversion and Development Authority sign an agreement to advance the air transport and logistics services industry at the Clark International Airport, setting the stage to becoming to be one of the country’s premier hubs for industrial, manufacturing, transport and other services. Under the agreement, the DOTr and BCDA, along with the CRK’s private operator, Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corp., will establish a location for the Industrial, Manufacturing, Transport business and related services at the airport.

A-FLOW OPENING. Trade Secretary Cristina Roque (fifth from left), BOI director Mary Ann Raganit (second from the right), and other key officials, A-FLOW president Sanjay Goel (second from left), AyalaLand Logistics Holdings Corp. chairman Anna Ma. Margarita Dy (fourth from left) at the inauguration ceremony of A-FLOW ML1 data center on Nov. 28.

POP CAFE. The newest and trendiest Café in town ready to serve. Pop Cafe opens from 10:00am to 10:00pm at Uno Fuel Station,ManilaCavite Road, Brgy. 11 Sta. Cruz, Cavite City. A perfect spot for a next IG-worthy hangout, full of cool toys, collectibles, and human size figurines that will make your photos attractive. Dennis Abrina

SEC readies rules on sukuk issuances to boost market

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued draft guidelines for sukuk issuances as part of government efforts to develop the Islamic capital market and broaden investment options for investors.

disclosure standards, clearer Shari’ah governance mechanisms and strengthened investor safeguards aligned with international sukuk practices, the SEC said in a statement Thursday. Sukuk are certificates of equal value that represent undivided investment or rights to underlying assets, usufructs, services or projects undertaken in accordance with

Shari’ah principles.

The draft rules will apply to all sukuk issuances not exempt under Section 9 of the Securities Regulation Code. Sukuk intended for public offering should be registered with the SEC and may be listed, traded and settled on an SEC-registered exchange, fixed-income market or other organized market.

Eligible issuers include publiclylisted and non-listed stock corporations; the national government, its agencies and instrumentalities; local government units; governmentowned and -controlled corporations;

banks supervised by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, including Islamic banks; and special purpose entities formed by these issuers.

Special purpose entities may be created specifically for sukuk issuances, provided they are separately incorporated from the originator, registered with the SEC and compliant with its regulations.

These entities should also follow international standards for sukuk issuance, including Shari’ah principles. Their primary purpose will be the issuance of sukuk and the holding of assets for sukuk holders.

ATM accounts. Eligible pensioners are old-age, retirement and disability pensioners under RA 8291, RA 660, RA 7699 and PD 1146 who are in active status, receiving their regular or pro-rata monthly pension and are living as of Nov. 30, 2025.

IN BRIEF

By Darwin G. Amojelar

PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) said Thursday it will launch a twice-weekly flight service connecting Manila and Palau (Koror) starting March 29, 2026, strengthening the flag carrier’s presence in the Pacific region.

The new Manila-Palau route aims to provide seamless air connectivity from major Asian and select Philippine cities to Palau through the airline’s Manila hub, making the tropical destination more accessible.

“Creating flights to this Pacific island will stimulate tourism travel among beach lovers and the diving community,” said PAL president Richard Nuttall.

“Travelers can expect world-class service on board their flights combined with Philippine Airlines’ renowned Filipino heartfelt care,” he said. Koror is considered the gateway to Palau’s extraordinary marine attractions, which boast vibrant dive sites, crystal-clear lagoons and thriving coral reefs.

The route reinforces PAL’s commitment to expanding routes that deliver unique experiences and drive tourism growth.

The new service will be operated by PAL’s modern 199-seater dualclass Airbus A321ceo. Flights from Manila are scheduled every Wednesday and Sunday, departing at 10:15 p.m. and arriving in Palau (Koror) at 2 a.m. local time.

By Othel V. Campos

FILIPINO consumers are increasingly turning to online shopping for the year-end holiday season, with fast delivery and affordable shipping emerging as top priorities, according to a recent survey by Federal Express Corp. (FedEx). The findings highlight significant opportunities for cross-border ecommerce, driven by the Philippines’ extended holiday season and rapidly growing digital market.

A substantial 88 percent of Asia Pacific (APAC) consumers plan to complete at least a quarter of their holiday shopping online, and 53 percent

intend to increase their online activity compared to last year.

Shopping festivals such as Double 11, Black Friday and Cyber Monday heavily influence purchasing decisions, with 83 percent of APAC shoppers factoring these events into their holiday plans.

Filipino shoppers, in particular, face challenges from delayed deliveries and high shipping costs, cited by 55 percent and 45 percent of respondents, respectively.

Survey results indicate that lower shipping costs and faster delivery would significantly increase the likelihood of purchasing from international sellers.

FedEx Philippines managing-director

Maribeth Espinosa said the country’s extended holiday season, which starts in September and runs through the New Year, combined with a fast-growing ecommerce market, presents “tremendous opportunities for cross-border trade.”

Espinosa said more Filipino micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and e-tailers are connecting with international customers, while local shoppers increasingly embrace global purchases.

Businesses are taking steps to meet rising consumer expectations. Nearly a third of APAC SMEs are enhancing fulfillment and delivery operations, and over one-third are improving customer service capabilities.

THE Philippine IATA Agents Travel Association (PIATA) and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) are teaming up to provide essential mental health support to communities severely impacted by Typhoon Tino and the Bogo earthquake.

It marks a first for the travel industry, focusing on Liloan, Cutcut, Toledo and Bogo. The organizations will deploy a team of therapists and counselors to address the rising cases of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and emotional distress among children and adults in the affected areas. Untreated psychological trauma can lead to long-term issues

such as depression. The Philippines’ location along the Pacific Ring of Fire and within the typhoon belt makes it highly vulnerable to natural disasters. While the resilience of Filipinos is often highlighted, the accompanying mental health toll is frequently overlooked. This joint effort by PIATA and PATA aims to fill that critical gap by offering professional care.

“This is not just about rebuilding homes—it’s about rebuilding lives. We want survivors to know that their emotional well-being matters just as much as their physical recovery,” said PIATA president and PATA chairperson Maria Paz Alberto. Sheraton Cebu earns Michelin distinctions

TRANSPORT

HOLIDAY sales expectations are high this year, with more than 70 percent of businesses in Asia Pacific, including the Philippines and over 80 percent of European businesses anticipating growth, according to a survey by Federal Express Corp. (FedEx), one of the world’s largest express transportation companies.

Conducted in September 2025, the survey gathered insights from 850 small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and 850 consumers across 13 APAC markets, along with over 1,200 SMEs across nine European markets. It examines business expectations for the holiday gifting season and highlights customer preferences and concerns. The findings reveal strong optimism, with over 70 percent of APAC businesses and over 80 percent of European businesses expecting better holiday sales compared to last year.

PH, APAC businesses see strong holiday sales

APAC businesses are already gearing up for robust cross-border demand from Europe during the yearend shopping season, with many beginning preparations as early as September.

Cross-border e-commerce and major online shopping festivals continue to fuel demand. This year, 88 percent of APAC consumers plan to conduct at least a quarter of their holiday shopping online, and 53 percent intend to increase their online activity compared to last year.

Shopping festivals such as Double 11, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday are especially influential, with 83 percent of Asian shoppers factoring these events into their holiday purchase planning.

SMEs are adjusting their strategies accordingly, with 91% of APAC businesses and 83% of European businesses viewing e-commerce shopping festivals as critical for capturing seasonal demand.

While appetite for European goods is strong among APAC shoppers, more product choices, competitive delivery speed, and costs remain top of mind. Nearly nine in ten APAC shoppers say efficient shipping is essential when purchasing holiday gifts online.

However, delayed deliveries (55 percent) and elevated shipping costs (45 percent) are the primary pain points from previous seasons, underscoring the need for e-tailers to optimize logistics performance and customer experience.

These concerns directly impact purchasing decisions. More than half of APAC consumers indicate that lower shipping costs (53%) and faster delivery times (50 percent) would increase their likelihood of buying from European sellers.

Businesses in both regions are stepping up to meet rising customer expectations. Nearly one-third of APAC (29 percent) and European (33 percent) businesses are enhancing their fulfillment and delivery operations to better support crossborder demand, while over one-third (34 percent) of APAC and (32 percent) of European firms are strengthening

their customer service capabilities.

Encouragingly, 85 percent of businesses in both APAC and Europe say they are confident about meeting delivery deadlines during this year’s holiday season.

“In Asia Pacific, the festive gifting season stretches well beyond Christmas and into Lunar New Year, creating one of the world’s most dynamic windows for cross-border commerce,” Salil Chari, senior vice president, Marketing and Customer Experience, FedEx Asia Pacific said.

“With e-commerce surging across APAC and Europe, e-tailers are gearing up to maximize sales. Through our extensive network and smart, intuitive digital solutions, we’re helping businesses on both sides deliver exceptional customer experiences, streamline logistics particularly during the business holiday season, and succeed in an increasingly competitive landscape,” he said.

Maribeth Espinosa, managing director, FedEx Philippines said the Philippines celebrates one of the world’s longest holiday seasons, from September through the New Year—a period that, combined with our fastgrowing e-commerce ecosystem, creates tremendous opportunities for cross-border trade.

“More Filipino MSMEs and e-tailers are connecting with international customers, while local shoppers increasingly embrace global purchases. At FedEx, we’re committed to fuelling this growth by helping businesses expand globally and ensuring shipments arrive on time for every celebration,” she said.

Darwin G. Amojelar

DOTr,

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) and AF Payments Inc. (AFPI) brought their White Beep Card Caravan to Rizal Technological University (RTU) to make the issuance of white beep cards with a 50% discount faster and more accessible for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

According to DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez, the beauty of the caravan is that it will speed up the issuance of white beep cards with an automatic 50 percent discount on MRT-3, LRT-1, and LRT-2, and more students will benefit for a more convenient trip.

“We are doing this Caravan for our students including PWDs and senior citizens. We are bringing it closer to them so that they will not have to suffer and so that they can immediately enjoy the 50% discount and make their trip more comfortable according to the order of President Marcos,”. Lopez said. According to engineering student Kisha, getting beep cards from the caravan is fast and the 50% discount on trains is really helpful for students especially for her who is coming from Antipolo.

“The process of getting a beep card is super fast especially for me I didn’t have to wait in line. The 50 percent discount is also a big help since my daily allowance is only P300 and I am from Antipolo– I took the LRT and then the MRT so it’s much better to have a 50 pecent off”, according to Kisha.

For student athlete Richard, getting white beep cards quickly is a big help because he commutes every day and he can also save on his fare because of the 50% discount on trains.

“The beep card is very helpful because I use it every day. When I go to school, also when I have training at RTU because I am an athlete here, then I don’t have a dorm so I travel every day. I can save on my fare,” said Richard. Meanwhile, AFPI provided more than 300 white beep cards for students, PWDs, and senior citizens for the two-day caravan at RTU from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

CIAC named top-performing GOCC for 3rd consecutive year by GCG

AHEAD of the holiday rush, GCash is simplifying daily commutes with a limited-time “Murang Sakay” (Affordable Ride) promotion for MRT-3 riders.

From December 8 to 22, GCash users can automatically receive a P5 discount on their fare when paying at the dedicated GCash fast lanes using any of the three available cashless payment methods.

No registration is required. Users should note that P28 is initially deducted upon entry, and the discounted change will be automatically credited back to their GCash wallet upon exit. GCash, in partnership with MRT-3, earlier rolled out three simple and fast ways to go cashless:

● Tap to Pay: Converts NFC-enabled Android phones into a digital ticket after a one-time activation on the app.

● Scan GCash Commute QR: Allows users to generate a Commute QR code on the GCash app, serving as a digital ticket without the requirement of inputting station details.

● GCash Visa Card: Functions like the traditional MRT-3 ticket system, ideal for situations involving signal disruption or low device battery.

THE Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) has recognized the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) as one of the top-performing government-owned and -controlled corporations in the Performance Evaluation System (PES) for the third consecutive year. Jojit Alcazar, CIAC president and chief executive accepted the award from GCG Chairperson Atty. Marius Corpus during the GCG Awards Ceremony held on December 1, 2025, at the Mahogany Ballroom of the Sequioa Hotel in Parañaque City.

Alcazar was joined by Chief Finance Officer Nancy Paglinawan, Chief Operations Officer Engr. Brando Aguilera, Assistant Vice President for Legal Services Atty. Rustico Quizon III, and Member of the Board, Director Jaime Lazatin.

The GCG Awards honor exemplary performance among GOCCs, recognizing top achievers in both the Corporate Governance Scorecard and the Performance Evaluation System for Calendar Year 2024. CIAC’s continued excellence in the PES

highlights its sustained commitment to high standards of governance and operational performance.

The PES serves as a comprehensive management tool composed of performance measures, targets, and initiatives. It helps organizations achieve long-term goals by guiding strategy implementation and promoting accountability and continuous improvement.

“This achievement reflects CIAC’s dedication to meeting and exceeding government standards. It recognizes the hard work of CIAC officers and employees in advancing our strategic initiatives for the Clark Civil Aviation Complex,” Alcazar said.

“May this award inspire us to continue pushing toward our goals, especially our flagship projects for the Clark Aviation Capital— sustainable and economically viable developments that will create lasting impact for Clark,” he added.

As the Bases Conversion and Development Authority’s premier aviation and land development arm, CIAC remains committed to

premier global aviation and logistics hub.

DPWH, San Juan LGU collaborate on ‘Oplan Kontra Baha’

THE Local Government of San Juan recently launched demolition and clearing operations to remove drainage obstructions, a critical step in the city’s efforts to control severe flooding. This action is part of the national Oplan Kontra Baha initiative, following the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to intensify the cleaning of waterways.

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon stressed the importance of keeping drainages and other waterways clean as a solution to the waste management problem throughout Metro Manila.

“What is important here is the

city’s help in clearing. Because many of our drainages have been covered by various structures—including houses,” Dizon said during the clearing of informal settler families (ISFs) in Brgy. San Venancio. President Marcos had earlier said that clearing and demolition operations under Oplan Kontra Baha will continue.

Dizon added that the national government will intensify its collaboration with LGUs to resolve the flooding. He thanked San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora for first ensuring that the eight families affected by the demolition will have somewhere to move.

CIAC president and chief executive officer Jojit Alcazar accepts the award from GCG chairman lawyer Marius Corpus after the government aviation agency was named one of the top-performing GOCCs in the Performance Evaluation System (PES) during the GCG Awards

the Clark aviation complex into the Clark Aviation Capital—a dynamic business center

to become the country’s

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, JASPER VALDEZ,

SHOWBIZ

LAST September, I met Puerto Rican beauty Ivana Carolina when she was interviewed at a California corporate office for the podcast

The Whole Story, which is anchored by successful Filipino-born health care entrepreneur Amabel De Leon

That guesting happened barely a month after Ivana bagged the title at the Universal Woman 2025 pageant held in Jaipur, India. She is the third winner of the new international competition among women of beauty, brains, and impact.

The first two were Venezuelan Valentina Trivella and Filipina Maria Gigante

“Winning Universal Woman has strengthened my confidence and deepened my commitment to serve with love. It’s a daily reminder that when you walk in faith, stay disciplined, and lead with heart, dreams truly become reality,” she said.

Her eloquence reflects why she bested 46 contestants from other countries.

Her edge comes from being a TV host as well as from visiting communities whose stories touched her heart. She founded Hilos Dorados—Golden Threads in English—which devotes itself to championing the elderly in Puerto Rico. She aims to “bring joy and connection through experiences.” Ivana can dance, is a good cook, and is also invested in sports, which teach her discipline, resilience, and the importance of being a leader who stands out.

She expressed, “From the very beginning, I knew that if I stayed true to myself and my story, I would already be winning.”

She recalled that during the Universal Woman coronation night in August, something powerful happened within her. She said, “I felt peace. I spoke from my heart, with complete honesty, representing the values of Puerto Rico. In that moment, I knew that I had fulfilled my mission, and whatever came next was in God’s hands.”

Universal Woman is a brand known for its inclusive format, posing no restrictions on height, weight, or civil status among participants. Contestants must be aged between 21 and 45.

The latest winner likened host country India to her beloved hometown, as it also celebrates “life with passion, music, and community.”

“Being Puerto Rican is my greatest pride,” Ivana said. “It means carrying resilience, warmth, and love everywhere I go. My island has shaped me into a woman who values family, faith, and service, and I bring that essence with me to every stage I stand on.”

Communicating and connecting

Ivana Carolina Irizarry is a native of San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico. She discovered the power of communication and connection through TV hosting. For her, it is a platform that combines three things: service, leadership, and empowerment.

Prior to her Universal Woman triumph, she won Miss International Puerto Rico 2019 and placed in the top 15 at Miss International 2018.

She said, “This victory has filled my heart with purpose and gratitude. This crown is not just a symbol of beauty. It represents the voice of a woman who wants to make a difference.”

One of her biggest inspirations is her compatriot, 1993 Miss Universe winner Dayanara Torres, who became particularly famous in the Philippines. Torres was reigning Miss Universe when the pageant was held in Manila in 1994.

Ivana shared, “The way she connected with the Filipino people and became part of their culture showed the power of humility and love. She opened doors for all of us, proving that Puerto Rican women can shine anywhere in the world. Her journey motivates me to use my voice to build bridges and spread light wherever I go.”

Ivana also praised the Filipina who previously held the title: “Maria Gigante is a true embodiment of elegance and wisdom. She treated me with kindness and shared valuable advice on walking this journey with authenticity and grace.”

Ivana is valued by Amabel as a key voice for her podcast. She has beauty, brains, and purpose all in one. Universal Woman shines brightly with her, and its future looks truly promising.

New voices of OPM tonight at the Big Dome

By Japser Valdez

THE RAAA! Concert is a significant stage for four of today’s most-streamed male soloists. It also comes at a time when all of them are facing turning points in their careers—and they see tonight’s concert as a checkpoint before heading into their next chapters.

That was the shared sentiment at the concert’s Nov. 26 press conference, where Rob Deniel, Arthur Nery, Adie, and Amiel Sol talked about performing together at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Each of them has grown through different experiences over the past year, and coming together on one stage feels like the right moment for all four.

For Adie, the show happens while he’s learning to push himself further as a performer. He hopes 2026 finally brings something he has yet to achieve.

“I’m really looking forward to doing a solo concert,” he said. “I’ve never experienced having a solo show, so I’m hoping I get to perform at Araneta next year.”

He added that he plans to take more opportunities and to “interact more with the people supporting me” moving forward.

Rob also sees the concert as part

of a larger shift. He described 2025 as “full of plot twists” and shared that experimenting with sound—including his tribute to Ogie Alcasid—opened new doors creatively.

“I don’t want to limit the kind of music I play,” he said. “Sometimes you really need to take that risk so you can explore something different.”

He hopes to carry that energy into the new year, saying, “I want to end the year still making music. My goal next year is to release an album.”

Amiel called 2025 “very unexpected,” acknowledging that the sudden attention from streaming took him by surprise. “I never expected this, because I never had a hit before,” he said.

With momentum on his side, he hopes to stay focused and grounded. “What I want moving forward is consistency—releasing songs and focusing on my art,” he said.

He added that their concert setlist reflects who they are behind the scenes. “We chose songs we grew up with so listeners can also see another side of our artistry.”

MANILA Fashion Runway (MFR) Asian Fashion Festival 25/26 made its much-awaited comeback, reaffirming its position not just as a runway showcase but as a full-scale fashion experience.

The one-day event once again proved to be a vibrant gathering for fashion enthusiasts, designers, creators, and industry supporters from across the country.

This year’s show featured an immersive program blending music, art, dance, and a spectacular runway presentation, highlighting a dynamic mix of fashion and entertainment. The event emphasized how both local and international designers and brands continue to innovate, each presenting their own interpretation of Asian fashion through creative, modern, and culturally inspired pieces.

MFR is the brainchild of executive producer Rikki Dela Peña, Miss Universe Philippines-Lucban 2024 and Miss Philippines Face of Tourism 2022, who shared that her inspiration for the show extends beyond fashion. It serves as a platform to empower emerging models, giving them valuable exposure and opportunities in the competitive modeling industry.

Arthur, who has already headlined major venues, said the change for him is more internal—learning to be present and grateful for where he is now. He explained that the concert format is not designed to separate them but to highlight how much they enjoy working together.

“There are parts of the concert where we sing each other’s songs,” he said. “It’s collaborative—it’s a family concert.”

He also sees the show as a gesture toward the people who stayed with them throughout their journeys.

“This is a way for us to show up for the fans who have always shown up for us.”

The four emphasized that RAAA! isn’t structured as four solo acts stitched together. Most of the night will see them performing side by side rather than taking turns.

As Arthur put it, “To sound as one— without losing our identities.”

The RAAA! Concert happens tonight at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Tickets are available through TicketNet.

Models who graced the runway were professionally trained at Block Modeling School, headed by mentor Arthur Tselishchev, with a comprehensive program focused on confidence building, posing techniques, styling, and runway performance.

As part of its commitment to nurturing new talent, MFR announced that a new workshop cycle for aspiring models who will walk in the next season will begin on Dec. 12.

Gracing the event were model Santino Rosales, Miss Eco International Philippines 2022 Ashley Subijano, Miss Chinatown Philippines 2023 2nd RU Justine Teng, and Miss Chinatown Philippines 2020 Cassandra Chan. The special guest performer was S.H.E.

Manila Fashion Runway, coheaded by Abby Dela Peña, who continues to play a vital role in the creative and operational success of the show, will return next season on April 26, promising an even bigger celebration of style, creativity, and Asian fashion excellence.

Reigning Universal Woman 2025 Ivana Carolina visits

Ivana Carolina (left) joins Amabel De Leon as a featured guest on the podcast ‘The Whole Story’ following her Universal Woman 2025 victory

From left: OPM singers Rob Deniel, Arthur, Viva chairman Vic del Rosario, Adie, and Amiel Sol

From left: Rob Deniel, Adie, Arthur Nery, and Amiel Sol are set to share the Araneta stage at ‘RAAA! Concert’

SHOWBIZ

Alden Richards on life beyond the spotlight

By Angelica Villanueva

“

pa bang pwedeng tulungan

today?”

It’s the first thing multihyphenated actor Alden Richards asks himself when he wakes up, a quiet reminder of the purpose he says now defines his career.

As he celebrates 15 years in the industry, Alden shared that his motivation no longer comes from fame or milestones, but from finding new ways to help.

“Things that I’m doing in my own small way create ripples of kindness and extend to the common good,” he said.

During the press conference for his upcoming fan meeting in December, Alden shared that fan encounters and moments of connection still give him a sense of fulfillment.

“That’s why I continue what I do—to use my platform to help others and inspire positive change. That’s what keeps me going,” the actor added.

Over the past 15 years, Alden said his career has been as much a journey of personal growth as it has been a professional one. He described his younger self as uncertain and hesitant, someone who lacked a clear direction and

the mindset to give back.

“The old Alden was scared, insecure, unsure about the things he wanted to do in life, without a plan. I probably didn’t yet have the mindset to give back or the mindset that comes with having a purpose at that time,” he told Manila Standard Entertainment Through the opportunities and challenges of the entertainment industry, Alden said he has learned to make decisions with confidence, to stand by them, and to use his platform not just for himself but for others.

“I was able to stand by my decisions and to create different opportunities for myself and for the people around me, for them to experience the level of bliss that I am able to feel because of my tenure here in the industry,” he continued.

For him, these changes have made purpose and service central to his life, turning each project, fan interaction, or initiative into a chance to create ripples of kindness that extend beyond the screen.

Alden then reflected on the

lessons learned from projects that didn’t go as planned, adding that he views his career not as a series of achievements to check off, but as an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

“I’d like to see it as an opportunity to be able to do it. If it’s not for you, it’s not for you. No matter how big the project, how massive the vision, or how huge the opportunity, if it’s not really meant to happen yet, it simply won’t happen,” Alden explained. He said that perspective has

The Celebrity Source marks 25 years with outreach, community work

TO FURTHER its commitment to purposeful connections, VCM The Celebrity Source celebrated its 25th anniversary by bringing smiles to children through an outreach event in partnership with World Vision Philippines. Since its founding, VCM has been a key player in the country’s entertainment and marketing industry, linking brands with top Filipino celebrities through long-standing partnerships.

Campaigns over the years have included Robin Padilla for Kawasaki and Talk & Text, Anne Curtis for Lay’s, Kathryn Bernardo for TLC and Zion, Daniel Padilla for Pepsi, Alden Richards for Sting, Marian Rivera for NUWhite, and Luis Manzano for Ajinomoto, Regasco, and Rebisco.

The company’s roster of celebrity partners includes Robin and Mariel Padilla, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Mikael Daez and Megan Young, Emilio Daez, Joyce Pring-Triviño, and Juancho Triviño. These partnerships underscore VCM’s focus on collaboration and meaningful

connections.

The anniversary celebration featured a special outreach with World Vision, where VCM talents and celebrity couple Joyce and Juancho Triviño spent time with children, sharing lessons on confidence and self-belief, and engaging in play. Elizabeth “Betchay” Alviar-Vidanes, VCM founder, said the milestone reflects the company’s dedication not only to business success but also to making a positive impact on communities.

Combs over the use of disputed footage

allowed him to embrace the highs and lows of showbiz with gratitude, stressing that setbacks are opportunities to grow and that one must remain grateful for each chance. This mindset allows him to focus on the purpose behind his work and the positive impact he can have on others.

“Sometimes, in situations like that, you just have to be thankful. Maybe the opportunity is telling you, this isn’t for you

yet. And you’re not ready for it. So then you move forward and wait for another opportunity to present itself,” Alden explained.

This holiday season, Alden said he does not seek material gifts, emphasizing that what truly matters to him are the intangible moments of connection and the joy of giving.

“Giving gifts is even more fulfilling. It feels better to give than to receive. I hope we can help even more people with whatever they may need in life,” he stated.

“Trust has been at the heart of every partnership we’ve built,” Vidanes said. “This milestone belongs to everyone who has shared and believed in our mission—to connect with purpose and heart.”

VCM continues to expand its services, including artist and endorsement management, influencer marketing, product seeding, liveselling, professional event hosting, and celebrity appearances, reinforcing its role as a trusted link between talent, brands, and audiences.

Netflix airs Diddy doc despite imprisoned mogul’s legal threat

AN EXPLOSIVE docuseries about “Diddy” Combs—produced by his longtime rival 50 Cent—has been released on Netflix, despite the disgraced music mogul’s attempts to block its airing

The four-part Sean Combs: The Reckoning chronicles the career and dramatic fall of the 56-year-old rapper and record executive, who was sentenced in October to 50 months in prison for prostitution-related crimes.

During his trial, a New York court heard how he coerced his former girlfriend Casandra Ventura into performing so-called “freak “offs”—sexual marathons with hired men that Combs directed and sometimes filmed.

The Netflix series features interviews with other associates who detail his allegedly predatory behavior, as well as with two people who claim that the hip-hop star sexually assaulted them.

Combs’s lawyers had sought to halt the show’s Tuesday release, sending a cease and desist letter to Netflix a day earlier claiming an apparent copyright violation.

They point to footage in the show of Combs speaking with his legal team days before his September 2024 arrest, in which he urges them to “find somebody that will work with us, that has dealt in the dirtiest of dirty business of media and propaganda.”

Juda Engelmayer, Combs’s spokesperson, told AFP that the artist had been capturing the video to “tell his own story, in his own way.”

“It is fundamentally unfair, and illegal, for Netflix to misappropriate that work.” Netflix, in a statement cited by the Washington Post, said the footage of Combs was legally obtained.

Engelmayer also complained that rapper Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson was allowed to executive produce the documentary series, calling him a “longtime adversary with a personal vendetta who has spent too much time slandering Mr Combs.”

The pair have a feud that dates back to the mid-2000s, when 50 Cent released a diss track accusing Combs of knowing who murdered famed rapper The Notorious B.I.G. in 1997. Combs was convicted in July of two counts of transporting people across state lines for prostitution. But a jury acquitted him of the most serious charges: sex trafficking and racketeering. He is currently being held in a low-security federal prison some 80 miles (130 kilometers) south of New York. He is due to be released in May 2028. AFP

The docuseries is executive-produced by rapper Curtis ‘50 Cent’ Jackson, whom Diddy previously described as a longtime adversary

INO

Joyce Pring-Triviño, Juancho Triviño, and Elizabeth ‘Betchay’ Vidanes lead

25thanniversary outreach with World Vision Philippines

Alden Richards reflects on his purpose, gratitude, and 15 years in showbiz industry

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Families and friends share meals at camp, a reminder of the camaraderie that fuels the overlanding community

By Nickie Wang

OVERLANDING in the Philippines has grown into a lively community of travelers who love open roads, nature, and exploring on their own terms. What started as small weekend trips has grown into a nationwide network where people share tips, help each other out, and form lasting friendships.

From swapping stories at campsites to tackling long-distance routes together, the community has built a culture of camaraderie, adventure, and a shared love for discovering the country.

Born to Roam PH (BTR), a rising hub for Filipino overlanders, took things further this year with its first Philippine Loop Caravan and the launch of the country’s first Roam Fest.

BTR began as a small group of hobbyists in 2016 and expanded during the pandemic, a time when travel restrictions limited destinations.

“We just wanted to keep the overlanding hobby alive,” said Alex Perez, lead founder of Born to Roam PH.

“It wasn’t just about promoting tourism,” Perez added. “We were more focused on visiting shops and dealers, meeting other overlanders, and understanding the state of the overlanding scene in the Philippines.”

Regular campsite gatherings around Luzon helped sustain interest and gradually strengthened

Fuel your wanderlust

Philippine overlander hit the road, building a stronger community

the community. The name “Born to Roam” came from a global campaign by Front Runner, a South African overlanding gear brand distributed locally by Premium Overland Outfitters.

What started as a local extension of that campaign eventually grew into an independent community welcoming a wide range of rigs and enthusiasts.

From April to May 2025, the group’s founders— Perez, Parker Choi, Philip Tabisuara, Cris Diaz Jr., Nervin Nepumuceno, Christian de Jesus, and Jose Ticsay—along with their camera crew,

Twenty-six things to do before 2026

CHRISTMAS is coming, Simbang

Gabi is looming, and before we fully dive into the party mood, the holiday rush is already nudging us toward a quiet truth—we are slowly being eased into 2026. Many times over the past few days, overwhelmed by everything that needs to be done, I found myself stressed and needing a small pause, a moment to think about my next steps, especially for the coming year. And I realized that this is the best time to do it. In the past years, it has been so helpful to get into therapeutic rituals to usher in the new year. So while I’m also carving out space for my own life reset, I’m sharing a few things I’ve been reflecting on—26 intentional actions we can do before 2026.

1. Declutter your email inbox. Unsubscribe from newsletters you don’t read, archive important threads, and delete the rest. A clean inbox is a small but powerful reset.

Scheduling essential health appointments helps set the tone for a stronger, more mindful year ahead

completed a 36-day Philippine Loop Caravan. The journey began at Kilometer Zero in Rizal Park, Manila, and covered several regions, including Ilocos Norte, Zambales, Leyte, and South Cotabato.

The caravan focused on meeting fellow overlanders, visiting shops and dealers, and understanding the current state of the overlanding community.

Perez described the experience as a test of teamwork and adaptation, noting that the trip became as meaningful as the destination. Encounters with local groups and shop owners along the route

Random

Reassess your finances. Review income, expenses, and financial habits. Adjust your money strategy based on what actually happened this year. Observe any recurring pattern you need to address.

Conduct a year-end budget rehearsal. Before 2026 officially starts, try living on next year’s planned monthly budget for one or two weeks. This “rehearsal” helps you spot unrealistic allocations, tighten loose areas, and refine your financial flow before the year begins.

7. Review your savings goals. Check your emergency fund, travel fund, and long-term plans. Update your targets for 2026.

8. Audit your subscriptions. I cannot emphasize this enough, especially after experiencing being charged a lump sum due to the auto-renewal of a trial subscription. Be mindful of dates and cancel unused apps, services, or memberships to avoid surprise charges next year.

9. Schedule overdue health appointments. Think dental cleaning, check-up, blood test, or anything you’ve been postponing. There is power in knowing the state of your health.

10. Declutter your pantry and refrigerator. Toss expired items and restock essentials with intention.

11. Update passwords and enable two-factor authentication. A safer

digital life is part of a calmer life

shaped the idea of creating a nationwide gathering. This idea later took form in Roam Fest 2025, held from Oct. 16 to 19 at Camp Forest Springs in Bacolod City. The event brought together overlanders from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, turning the campsite into a shared space for outdoor enthusiasts. Perez said the festival aims to function as a movement promoting sustainable travel, outdoor appreciation, and nationwide connection among travelers. Organizers intend for Roam Fest to continue as an annual gathering that highlights new destinations and encourages responsible exploration.

Overlanding in the Philippines continues to grow as families, couples, and pet owners join trips that once involved only small groups of friends. Customized rigs show how people adapt to life on the road, while the open-air nature of travel has drawn more enthusiasts over the years. And Born to Roam PH has become a central part of this growth. With strong turnout and enthusiastic participation, Roam Fest is set to continue as a yearly tradition promoting Philippine tourism, environmental appreciation, and the spirit of adventure.

“If you want the ultimate Philippine adventure— one that challenges you, strengthens your bonds, and makes you fall in love with your country—this is it,” Perez said.

Born to Roam PH continues to encourage exploration through trips, educational events, and festivals that unite people with a shared interest in travel and the outdoors.

12. Curate your social media feed.

Unfollow accounts that drain your energy or trigger your anxiety.

Follow those that bring you inspiration and good vibes.

13. List your 2025 wins. Celebrate everything from major breakthroughs to small wins that helped you grow. Take note of what worked to get you there.

14. Write down your 2025 lessons learned.

Be honest and reflective. These will help you make better choices next year.

15. Clean your physical desktop and files. Organize documents into proper

folders. Future you will be thankful.

16. Update your resumé or portfolio. Even if you’re not job-hunting, it’s good to keep your achievements documented.

17. Reevaluate relationships. Identify the people who nourished you and gently set boundaries with those who didn’t. Slowly cut off from toxicity.

18. Create a 2026 vision board. Include not only goals but also feelings—how you want your year to flow. Match this with a playlist!

20. Set your 2026 non-negotiables. Sleep, rest days, work boundaries, and self-care routines need to be determined, and they deserve commitment.

21. Upgrade a habit or skill. Choose the habit that will make the biggest positive impact—better sleep, more movement, or daily journaling.

22. Donate or recycle unused items. Let go of clutter with intention and compassion.

23.

Talk Kate Adajar

Born to Roam PH’s Alex Perez founded the group and built a strong community of overlanding enthusiasts

Born to Roam PH aims to sustain the overlanding hobby by engaging with shops, dealers, and fellow overlanders, rather than solely promoting tourism

Roam Fest 2025 at Camp Forest Springs in Bacolod City brought together overlanders from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao