By Charles Dantes and Pot Chavez
MALACAÑANG assured yesterday that it would support an investigation into allegations of conflict of interest and other
Return P60b in excess funds to PhilHealth—SC
By Pot Chavez, Charles Dantes and Ram Superable
THE Supreme Court has ordered the return of P60 billion in remitted funds to the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) through the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
"The SC, through the ponencia of Associate Justice Amy C. Lazaro-Javier, unanimously ordered the return of PhilHealth funds previously transferred to the National Treasury in the amount of P60 billion and permanently prohibited the transfer of the remaining P29.9 billion fund balance," SC spokesperson lawyer Camille Sue Mae Ting said in a press briefer.
The High Court also declared void the special provision of the 2024 GAA as well as Department of Finance Circular No. 003-2024 for having been issued with "grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction."
The issuances resulted in PhilHealth's remittance of P60 billion to the national treasury in three tranches until the SC issued a temporary restraining order.
By Charles Dantes
THE Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has given assurance on its commitment to press investigations into irregularities in government projects involving public officials, some lawmakers, and private contractors. Meanwhile, Malacañang said the full P41 million in government funds allocated for the ICI has already been released and now accessible for the probe body.
THE Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) announced on Friday that it secured a freeze order on the assets of a private construction company with allegedly the largest number of “ghost” flood control projects.
The order, handed down on December 4, covers the 280 bank accounts, 22 insurance policies, three securities accounts, and eight air assets linked to the company and its executives, the Council said in a statement. However, it did not name the construction company whose assets were subject to the latest freeze order.
By Alena Mae S. Flores
CONSUMERS
ter based on the four-day trading in the Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) and foreign exchange average versus last week’s full week average. Leo Bellas, Jetti Petroleum president said geopolitical risks and tensions have kept the level of premium and freight elevated, causing the
The Court found sufficient grounds to connect these assets to possible violations of Republic Act No. 3019, the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, as well as the Malversation of Public Funds and Property under Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code, the AMLC further stated.
“The filing of this petition for a freeze order underscored the AMLC’s firm commitment to recover every peso of public funds that may have been misused,” AMLC Executive Director Matthew David said.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025 mst.daydesk@gmail.com
TRACK AND INTENSITY OUTLOOK.
WILMA is forecast to move west southwestward until today before turning generally westward for the remaining forecast period. On the forecast track, the center of WILMA may make its initial landfall over EasternVisayas. Afterwards, it will continue to traverse Visayas until tomorrow then emerge over Sulu Sea and may pass over northern Palawan by Monday (08 December) morning.
Return...
The High Court also ruled that the President did not commit grave abuse of discretion when he certified as urgent the 2024 GAA.
"Except in cases of grave abuse of discretion, the authority to decide whether a certification of urgency is valid rests solely with Congress. In this case, Congress approved the President's certification to expedite the passage of the bill," the High Court said.
Meanwhile, the High Tribunal denied a petition to determine the liability of the Finance Secretary for technical malversation and/or plunder, noting that such matters are "improper" for resolution in this case.
In his separate opinion, SC Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen said the presidential declaration of urgency should be considered invalid since there was no emergency or public calamity justified in dispensing with the constitutional requirement of three readings on separate days.
Sarah...
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"After a thorough investigation—reviewing voluminous documents, conducting field verification, and evaluating sworn statements from community witnesses—the Office of the Ombudsman has found probable cause to file criminal charges in connection with an alleged 96.5-million-peso ghost infrastructure project in Davao Occidental," he said.
Meanwhile, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered law enforcement authorities to prepare to take Discaya and other implicated individuals into custody in anticipation of the issuance of arrest warrants against them. In a video statement, the President said he has ordered the Department of the Interior and Local Government
La Niña...
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Depression "Wilma" maintained its strength as it continued to move slowly toward Eastern Visayas. Wilma's center was last estimated at 180 kilometers east of Borongan City, Eastern Samar.
According to PAGASA's 5 p.m. tropical cyclone bulletin, it was moving westward slowly with maximum sustained winds of 45 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gustiness of up to 55 kph.
The tropical depression is forecast to move west-southwestward until Saturday before turning generally westward for the remaining forecast period. Its center may make its initial landfall over Eastern Visayas between late Friday evening and Saturday morning. Meanwhile, the state weather bureau announced that a short-lived La Niña is present in the tropical Pacific.
"Recent oceanic and atmospheric
Among the petitioners in these consolidated petitions are former senator Aquilino Pimentel III, Bayan Muna
Chairman Neri Colmenares, and 1Sambayan Coalition.
Malacañang, for its part, said it would abide by the Supreme Court ruling.
Presidential Communications Secretary Dave Gomez said the Office of the Solicitor General would study the decision and determine whether to seek reconsideration.
"We respect the decision of the Supreme Court," Gomez said.
"The OSG will review the ruling and decide on the appropriate course of action, including filing a motion for reconsideration," he added.
"We note that the Executive simply complied with the congressional mandate under the said law," the Palace official added.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, who was the Finance chief when the transfers happened, said the government had committed from the start to comply with whatever the Court ordered.
"As we always said before the decision, the Executive will follow the
(DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to locate Discaya and other involved individuals to ensure immediate arrests once warrants are issued.
"Once these cases are filed and the court issues arrest warrants, those responsible will be taken into custody," he said.
"According to the Ombudsman, the respondents issued and approved documents used to request and release the full amount of nearly P100 million, even though no project was completed or started," the chief executive lamented.
Clavano noted that the case was filed at around 2:15 p.m. in Digos City Regional Trial Court (RTC).
Aside from Discaya of St. Timothy Construction Corporation, other respondents in the case are District Engineer Rodrigo C. Larete, Assistant District Engineer Michael P. Awa, Ma.
conditions indicate that La Niña has developed in the tropical Pacific. Since September 2025, the sea surface temperatures in the central and equatorial Pacific started to decrease and further declined in November, reaching a weak La Niña threshold," PAGASA said in an advisory.
The La Niña is likely to persist until the first quarter of 2026, from December this year to February next year.
"La Niña is usually associated with above-normal rainfall conditions across most areas of the country during the last quarter of the year and early months of the following year," PAGASA said.
"With this development, higher chances of above-normal rainfall in the December 2025 to February 2026 season are expected, which may cause floods, flashfloods, and rain-induced landslides. Furthermore, an increased chance of tropical cyclone activity within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) during the period is likely," it concluded.
4,679
178 real properties, 16 e-wallet accounts, and three securities accounts, with a combined value of some P13 billion, have been frozen due to their alleged links with anomalous flood control projects, the AMLC noted.
tions of rising supplies from possible higher exports from China also weighed on the supply situation,” he said. He said Asian gasoline prices, on the other hand, remain supported on tight supply and robust regional demand.
Supreme Court's order," Recto said.
He also emphasized that the Department of Finance’s involvement was limited to revenue generation and debt management, and that several oversight bodies, including the OGCC, GCG, and COA, cleared the transfer before it was made.
The PhilHealth board also approved the move, Recto said.
Recto said the remittance never hindered PhilHealth’s operations or reduced member contributions.
Instead, he said, the correction paved the way for the agency’s biggest expansion of benefit packages under Universal Health Care, along with the implementation of Zero Balance Billing.
Both Gomez and Recto pointed out that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had already ordered the restoration of the P60 billion on September 20, 2025, citing PhilHealth’s stronger performance, higher absorptive capacity, and expanded benefits.
Congress later incorporated the restoration into the general appropriations bill, with the Senate upholding the directive in its committee report.
Recto said the administration re-
Roma Angeline Rimando, as well as several Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) section chiefs and project engineers.
The DPWH-Davao Occidental officials involved were also preventively suspended for a period of 6 months.
"There was no actual construction. Yet, respondents certified that the project was completed. They are found to have falsified accomplishment reports, issued fraudulent billing documents, and endorsed disbursement vouchers that triggered the release of the entire project cost," said Clavano.
He said the Ombudsman will continue to look into other project proponents as well as higher officials involved in the fictitious project, but assured that they will be afforded due process, such that a preliminary investigation will also be conducted.l
Mr. Marcos reiterated his previous
DOJ‘s...
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wrongdoings levelled against Justice Undersecretary Jose “Jojo” Cadiz after confirming that the Department of Justice (DOJ) official has tendered his resignation.
“To my knowledge, he has submitted his resignation," Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in Filipino. The Palace official, however, did not state whether or not the resignation had been accepted.
Cadiz’s resignation came a day after a news report was published stating that a construction company tied to his son secured more than P200 million in government projects in Ilocos Norte in 2023.
The report came on the heels of former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co accusing the DOJ official of being Mr. Marcos’ "bagman" in alleged corruption schemes.
Castro told reporters that the issue has not been discussed with the President, but stressed that the government is open to probing the projects if they warrant investigation.
She also declined to confirm whether Cadiz previously served as an aide or associate of Mr. Marcos.
Asked about criticisms that officials close to the President tend to resign only after allegations surface, Castro
mains committed to maximizing public funds to ensure no Filipino is denied healthcare.
"Our goal remains the same: to make every hard-earned peso of the Filipino taxpayer count, for our people, for their families, and for their health," he said.
PhilHealth pledged to ensure the funds strengthen the delivery of public health services.
“We know this comes with the challenge of ensuring the amount is properly allocated to strengthening health services,” it said in a statement.
As this developed, Senator Risa Hontiveros pointed to the remaining P53 billion the government failed to release as PhilHealth’s 2025 subsidy, saying the unpaid obligation must be addressed as the nation prepares next year’s budget.
“The SC’s decision is clear: the transfer of PhilHealth’s reserve funds was unconstitutional. The returned P60 billion must remain with PhilHealth, and we will continue to demand the P53 billion the government still owes as the 2025 subsidy,” she said.
statement that the conspirators behind the flood control scandal can expect to spend a gloomy Yuletide season.
"This is only the beginning. There are many more to be jailed, many more who will spend Christmas behind bars," he added.
As this developed, the DILG and the PNP, taking their cue from the President, stated that they are ready to serve the arrest warrants against Discaya and her alleged co-conspirators as soon as they are issued by the courts.
"Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police are ready to arrest individuals responsible for the [almost] P100 million ghost flood control project in Culaman, Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental," the Department said in a statement. With Vince Lopez
said the public should view such resignations positively.
"Isn’t it better that they leave out of respect for the President and the people, even without a judgment yet?" she said, adding that it shows the administration does not tolerate corruption.
Castro stated that officials are expected to step aside if they believe their continued service could cast doubt on the President’s anti-corruption stance.
"They know what the President wants, corruption must be stamped out," she said.
As this developed, the Office of the Ombudsman announced that it would be dedicating a fact-finding body to investigate Cadiz’s alleged involvement in anomalous flood control projects.
In a press briefing, Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said,
"There is something that the Ombudsman has to look into, given all the allegations, however not yet sworn into, but there are other reports as well on his involvement, so definitely there will be a factfinding body that will be dedicated to that as well," he said.
"Wherever the evidence takes us, that is where we will go," added Clavano.
In a separate briefing, Department of Justice (DOJ) spokesperson Polo Martinez explained that there is no news yet of the acceptance of Cadiz’s resignation.
ICI:...
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At the same time, the Palace urged lawmakers to cooperate with the ICI. The call was issued after Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte rejected the panel’s invitation to attend its inquiry into alleged irregularities in flood control projects in his legislative district.
The ICI issued the statement in response to reports suggesting that the fact-finding panel, established by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. through Executive Order 94, may only have a month or two remaining before it concludes its probe and submits all findings to the Office of the Ombudsman.
“The commission shall remain in place and continue its duties until it completes its mandate or is dissolved by the President. This is stated in the Executive Order that created the ICI,” said executive director Brian Keith Hosaka.
This announcement came as the ICI received its P41-million funding for 2025.
“The Notice of Cash Allocation, or NCA, was issued by the DBM (Department of Budget and Management) this morning, Dec 5. We will coordinate with the LBP (Land Bank of the Philippines) to determine if the ICI funds are now accessible,” Hosaka said.
The DBM approved the Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) for the ICI’s initial funding in September, but there was a delay in the budget’s release.
On Thursday, ICI Commissioner Rogelio Singson announced his resignation and voiced his disappointment regarding the ICI’s funding shortfall. Singson remarked that the ICI was established as a matter of urgency, yet it faced a lack of adequate funding. “There is no budget. The budget exists only in the newspapers, but it is not available to us.”
The Office of the President has authorized the allocation of over P41 million as the ICI’s budget until the end of the year, while the DBM approved the creation of 172 contractual positions for the ICI staff.
The funding will be utilized for hiring personnel for the legal department, special investigation office, and administrative and support staff in the offices of the chairman and commissioners, among other areas.
Singson earlier said the P41 million allocation appeared only “in newspapers” and did not reach the institute, a claim that fueled questions over whether the government had failed to provide support.
In a press conference on Thursday, Singson regretted the lack of funding and power for the ICI.
“Unfortunately, ICI was created, I would imagine, as an urgent matter, lacking a budget, no budget, the budget is in the newspapers, not with us. That’s the situation,” Singson blurted out. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro clarified that the Department of Budget and Management issued the Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) in September and attributed the release delay to processing requirements under the Modified Disbursement System.
“The SARO has been there as early as September. The funds are already with them,” Castro said.
She the Palace has already asked the ICI to settle obligations now that the funding issue has been cleared.
“Whatever shortfall there is in the amount due, please pay it immediately,” she said, adding that the President has provided all necessary support to ICI.
According to Castro, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has received and accepted Singson’s resignation as ICI commissioner.
Singson tendered his resignation from the ICI, citing health concerns and the heavy workload tied to the post. Castro also said public officials are accountable for their actions and should participate in investigations when requested.
“We have a saying: Buntot niya, hila niya. It means you are responsible for the consequences of your own acts,” Castro said. She added that several legislators had already responded to the ICI’s calls for information.
“The
“Gasoline exports from regional refiners have remained low, dragged down by lower volumes out of China and South Korea.” Bellas said. Rodela Romero, director of the Department of Energy’s Oil Industry Management Bureau said kerosene may have a rollback of about P0.25 per liter, Romero said geopolitical concerns such as the Ukraine attack on Russian’s oil infrastructure and the rising tensions between US and Venezuela and global crude oil supply surplus affected the movement of world prices this week.
“There are many legislators who have respected the call for ICI, provided their responses, and shared what they know. And if there is nothing to hide, there should be nothing to conceal,” she said.
“Final adjustments will be determined after Friday’s MOPS trading,” she said. On Dec. 2, the oil firms rolled back pump prices by P3.20 per liter for kerosene and P2.90 per liter for diesel but increased the price of gasoline by P0.20 per liter.
Duterte, however, insisted he was not backing down but refused to take part in what he described as a “politically motivated spectacle.”
In a statement, Duterte lashed out at the Commission and its supporters, citing that the ICI is being used by the Marcos administration as a “propaganda committee”.
CHURCH ALL AGLOW. The Manila Cathedral in Intramuros gloriously glows in vibrant colors ahead of the universal celebration of Christmas Day. Richmond
DOJ investigates Revilla’s link to flood scandal
By Pot Chavez
THE Department of Justice (DOJ) on Friday said they are already investigating the possible involvement of former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. in the flood control anomalies in the country.
In a press briefing, Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon confirmed the probe in relation to Bulacan ghost flood control projects.
“There is one case which is ongoing which includes former Senator Bong Revilla. The other respondents, mostly, are the same DPWH officials, district engineers Henry Alcantara, Brice Hernandez, [and] Jaypee Mendoza,” Fadullon said.
He noted that Revilla was included in the complaint based on evidence submitted by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for two of the five cases where resolutions are still being finalized.
Revilla was given five days to submit his counter-affidavit after he requested a motion for extension before the DOJ panel of prosecutors.
The DOJ is looking into the former senator’s alleged anomalies involving Wawao Builder and SYMS Construction and Trading.
The panel of prosecutors is set to issue a resolution on the case before Dec. 15.
‘MUP’s pay hike part of the job’
By Charles Dantes
MALACANANG justified President Ferdinand Marcos
Jr.’s visits to military camps and announced pay and subsistence increases for uniformed personnel, asserting that the moves were not politically motivated amid criticism and calls for some units to withdraw support.
Presidential Communications Office
Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President’s engagements with troops were part of his responsibility as Commander-in-Chief, not a reaction to political dissent.
take in performing their duties.
“If they deserve better assistance, we must provide it. Their sacrifice puts their lives on the line,” she said.
Earlier this week, President Marcos announced a multi-year pay and allowances boost for military and uniformed personnel.
in three tranches starting Jan 1, 2026, plus a new subsistence allowance of P350 per day from 2026.
Labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) earlier criticized the timing of the salary adjustments, linking the pay increase to growing public anger over corruption allegations and rumors of destabilization.
“Visiting our uniformed personnel is his obligation. It has nothing to do with any current issue,” Castro stressed.
She added that improving benefits for soldiers is justified by the risks they
“As long as the President has the time, this should not be questioned,” Castro said when asked whether Marcos felt the need to show support for the Armed Forces at this particular moment.
T he base pay will increase for military and other uniformed personnel under the Department of National Defense, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Bureau of Corrections, and the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority of the Philippines, with the pay hikes coming
I n a statement, the KMU questioned what it called a “convenient” moment to raise pay for “state forces” while unrest and accusations continue to mount. Castro rejected the KMU’s allegations, insisting that the recognition of the military is based on duty and merit, not political conditions.
Dizon says DPWH needs young engineers to regain trust
By Vito Barcelo
D EPARTMENT of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon on Friday said young engineers will play a crucial role in restoring public trust in the agency, even as it ramps up efforts to recruit new civil engineering graduates nationwide.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the DPWH to bring in fresh talents into the department to improve infrastructure delivery across the country.
During a visit to Davao City with the President, Dizon met newly licensed civil engineer Dave Rusty Recososa, son jeepney driver Edwin Recososa, who went viral for offering free rides after his son passed the Civil Engineering board examinations.
Dizon encouraged Dave to join the ongoing “transformation” within the DPWH after he was offered a civil engineer post at the agency’s Davao regional office.
Recososa is among those being hired to fill more than 2,000 DPWH vacancies across the country.
“It’s good that you’re joining because we have a lot to do next year. We need fresh blood, new people,” Dizon told the young engineer. He also praised Recososa’s father for his sacrifices as a jeepney driver to support his son through school.
The DPWH aims to strengthen its workforce as it accelerates key infrastructure projects in 2025.
PNP heightens security in countdown to Xmas SALUTE TO FALLEN HEROES. Armed Forces of the Philippines deputy chief Lt. Gen. Rommel Roldan executes the salute at the shrine of fallen soldiers highlighting the observance of the AFP’s 90th anniversary. AFP photo
By Vince Lopez
AS THE country enters the Yuletide season, Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., the tightening of security measures nationwide to ensure that Christmas and New Year celebrations are “safe, orderly, and enjoyable for all.”
The PNP announced that all police units have shifted to heightened security posture under Ligtas Paskuhan 2025 operational guidelines, a comprehensive plan designed to manage the surge of activities, travel, and gatherings that traditionally come with the holidays. Police visibility will be increased in busy areas, including transport terminals, church premises, commercial districts, and popular holiday destinations. Nartatez said the adjustments were meant not just to enforce safety, but to help “maintain the joyful spirit that Filipinos hold dear during Christmas.”
IN BRIEF
Party-list group sets off school feeding program
THE Partylist Coalition Foundation Inc., led by Talino at Galing ng Pinoy party-list Rep. Jose “Bong” Teves as president, on Thursday launched a “new brand of political advocacy centered on direct service delivery.”
The initiative, called “Batang Malusog: Child Nourishment Program,” was rolled out at the Manuel L. Quezon Elementary School in Quezon City, geared at combatting classroom hunger and help reinforce children’s health and learning capacity.
“The event was very heart-warming, from the welcoming march to the students greeting us, and their smiles truly made us feel warmth. I also hope everyone enjoyed the food and filled their tummies,” Teves noted.
Apart from serving hot meals to over 7,600 students, the organizers also distributed school essentials including a Smart Board Interactive television, medicines, and hygiene products.
BI intercepts Chinese fugitive fleeing to US
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has intercepted a Chinese national wanted for large-scale fund misappropriation in China, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said.
Viado identified the fugitive as Hao Bin, who was stopped at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 on Dec. 1 while about to leave for Singapore on his way to the United States.
BI INTERPOL Unit chief Peter David de Guzman said Hao was flagged through the bureau’s Advance Passenger Information System (APIS), which analyzes passenger data prior to arrival for advance vetting. Hao is the subject of a 2024 Interpol red notice for allegedly misappropriating funds in violation of Article 272 of China’s criminal law, a charge that carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. Chinese authorities reported that between 2019 and 2022, Hao and her associates used their positions to embezzle more than CNY 977.85 million, roughly ₱8.1 billion.
Vito Barcelo
Grenade blast hurts 4 in Maguindanao Sur
FOUR people were reported injured at a rifle grenade attack on a residential compound in Barangay Mother Poblacion, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur on Thursday night, police said.
Lt. Col. Jopy Ventura of the Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR), said the blast occurred at around 9:45 p.m.
T he grenade, fired by an unknown assailant, landed inside the compound before exploding.
The victims sustained shrapnel injuries in their backs and legs. Rex Espiritu
Chi
SYMBOLIC CHRISTMAS TREE. Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, escorted by husband Ricky, city councillors, and city administrator Dr. Alexander Rosete, leads the ceremonial lighting of a 40-foot Christmas Tree at the Malabon Welcome Park in Barangay Tonsuya. The event has the theme
Allies back safeguarding WPS
KEY partners of the Philippines have reinforced their commitment to collective security, rule of law, and stronger community-based monitoring in the West Philippine Sea.
During the Stratbase Institute’s “Eyes on the Sea: Community-Based Maritime Monitoring and Reporting in the West Philippine Sea” forum, Australian Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown noted the depth of strategic cooperation between Australia and the Philippines, describing the friendship of the two countries as “enduring.”
“Australia remains steadfastly com-
Party-list groups serve hot meals to 7.5k students
By Maricel V. Cruz
TINGOG party-list joined other member-lawmakers of the Partylist Coalition Foundation Inc.’s Batang Malusog: Child Nourishment program where they served hot and nutritious meals to over 7,500 students at the Manuel L. Quezon Elementary School in Quezon City on Thursday.
In his message, Tingog partylist Rep. Jude Acidre underscored the role of nourishment in shaping children’s confidence and capacity to learn, as well as the strength that comes from unified action among party-list groups.
“With every meal we bring to our school, with every strength that is returned to their bodies, we give them a new opportunity to grow and reach their dreams. Because young people who are full and ready to learn are young people who have confidence, have a voice, and have the ability to be leaders of the future,” he said.
The initiative was sponsored by Tingog, FPJ Panday Bayanihan, and Nanay party-list groups
“When Congress comes together, we can better ensure that no child is left behind in development,” Acidre added.
mitted to working with the Philippines and the region to improve maritime capabilities and oversight, uphold international law and contribute to our collective security and prosperity for the years to come,” he said.
“In early 2026… the Embassy will officially launch the next phase of Australia’s civil maritime investment in the Philippines, with
a double funding allocation of $18 million… This investment will retain strong focus on equipment, capacity building systems and exchange and scholarship opportunities,” he added.
New Zealand Ambassador Catherine McIntosh underscored regional cooperation, stating that “No country can address maritime challenges on its own.”
New Zealand is working with regional partners to strengthen maritime safety, environmental protection, and long-term governance, she said, pointing to new technologies.
“Modern maritime domain awareness tools, including IORIS and Starboard, are helping New Zealand and
its partners detect threats, coordinate operations, and strengthen regional security through shared information systems,” McIntosh said.
Vietnamese Ambassador Lai Thai Binh reaffirmed peaceful but resolute action, stressing that “Vietnam is committed to resolving South China Sea issues peacefully in accordance with international law, while firmly defending its sovereignty and sovereign rights.”
“Community-based monitoring is central to Vietnam’s maritime awareness efforts, empowering local fishers and coastal residents to report illegal activities and contribute to national databases that guide policy,” Lai said.
ONE-STOP PLATFORM. MMDA chairman Romando Artes says traffic violations may be paid via e-wallet GCash through the MMDA May Huli Ka website. Manny Palmero
IN BRIEF
Solon seeks disability support for PWDs
A LAWMAKER on Friday renewed his call for stronger social protection systems by advancing his landmark proposal, House Bill 3770 or the Disability Support Allowance for Persons with Disabilities Act.
Quezon City Rep. Patrick Michael Vargas said the measure seeks to institutionalize a universal monthly disability support allowance of P2,000 for all persons with disabilities—regardless of their employment status or income level—as a concrete step toward addressing long-standing socioeconomic barriers.
“Society is not equal, especially for persons with disabilities. So it is our duty to fix the things that put them at a disadvantage. We will try to correct the system that has been unfair for a long time,” he said. Vargas made the statement in celebration of the International Day of People with Disability. Maricel Cruz
MMDA: No number coding on Dec. 8
THERE will be no number coding for vehicles on Monday, according to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.
“The implementation of the expanded number coding scheme is suspended on Monday, December 8, 2025, a special non-working holiday, in commemoration of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary,” the MMDA stated in its advisory released on Friday. During the coding hours on this date, vehicles with license plates ending in 1 and 2 will be allowed to travel on the main streets of Metro Manila.
“Carefully plan your activities for the long weekend to prevent any inconveniences. Exercise caution while driving,” the MMDA included in its advisory to motorists. Joel Zurbano
31 higher ed leaders finish leadership devt THIRTY-ONE higher education leaders from Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam have successfully completed the 7th Leadership Development Program for Higher Education Institutions in Southeast Asia (LDP-HEIs in SEA).
The hybrid program, organized by the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA), The HEAD Foundation, and IPB University, was designed to strengthen leadership capacities in universities across the region.
Conducted from Sept. 23 to Nov. 18, 2025, the three-month program comprised five online sessions and a three-day onsite segment at IPB University in Bogor, Indonesia.
LTO permanently revokes license of vlogger with fake license plate
By Rio N. Araja
THE Land Transportation Office has permanently revoked the driver’s license of a well-known vlogger.
This followed the complaint of netizens over a viral video of him driving a Ford Expedition with a fake license
plate while not wearing a seatbelt.
LTO chief Markus Lacanilao said the vlogger failed to appear at the scheduled hearing of the LTO- Intelligence and Investigation Division (IID) to sub mit his verified comment to explain his side of the story.
He said due to the vlogger’s disregard of the show-cause order, the agency has completely revoked his driver’s license. He said the Ford Expedition will
Inspection Facility. The viral video also showed the vlogger frequently looking at his mobile phone camera while driving, which
BARMM launches iProtect System
COTABATO City—In line with the celebration of the 18 Day Campaign to End VAW, the United Nations Population Fund in the Philippines supported the Bangsamoro government in the launching of the iProtect System, a strengthened digital case management platform that transforms how gender-based violence (GBV), violence against women and children, and child protection cases are reported, referred, and managed across BARMM.
Developed under the leadership of the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), in consultation with agencies and with UNFPA’s technical and programmatic support, the enhanced iProtect System introduces key features such as standardized case registration, real-time case tracking, and an upgraded reporting and analytics module.
These enhancements empower frontline service providers to deliver faster, more coordinated, and more effective responses to survivors.
MSSD Minister Raissa H. Jajurie highlighted the strong leadership of the Ministry in advancing digital innovations for social protection, noting that the development of the iProtect Enhanced Version (iProtect EV) was made possible through close collaboration with UNFPA and on-theground support from UnYPhil.
“Through iProtect we can ensure timely and accountable service delivery for survivors, strengthen data-driven decision-making and program planning, and standardize referral pathways,” Jajurie said.
Neus Bernabeu, UNFPA Country Representative in the Philippines, emphasized the significance of the initiative
CHEER. Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso and Vice Mayor Chi Atienza inspect the 745,000 food boxes to be distributed to all barangays for Noche Buena. Norman Cruz
ENDING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN. (From left): Neus Bernabeu, UNFPA Country Representative;
Minister Raissa Jajurie of the BARMM Ministry of Social Services and Development; and BARMM Cabinet Secretary Mohd Asnin Pendatun. UNFPA
OPINION
Honor Blanco Cabie
Regional literatures help reinforce cultural identity
REGIONAL literatures absolutely doubtlessly provide enriching threads for the country’s cultural threads, a metaphor referring to the connected or intertwined elements, influences, or ongoing themes that form the fabric of a culture or a society.
They refer to the linkages that join various parts of a society’s history, values, or practices together, the existing traditions or ideas that run through a culture over time, the various artistic, social, or historical factors that blend to create a unique cultural identity, particularly when referencing multiple cultural backgrounds.
Bicol literature
Instance, the palm-dotted Bicol peninsula, comprising the provinces of the two Camarines, Albay, Sorsogon, Catanduanes and Masbate, itself has in its trove charm verses which exploit the possibilities of words in folk poetry and narratives with mythical content.
The region also has corridos or metrical romances which became the main reading materials in the region for many years.
Like other regions overwhelmed by Spanish influences, Bikol also has the comedia or the moro moro which, in an earlier clime, had a comedia writer and a theater group.
The region boasts the existence of protest comedias like Comedia ni Hadeng Grimaldo sa Reinong Irlanda by Sabas Armenta which deviates from the Moro as villain theme.
Another comedia, Drama en Comedia de la Vida Conde Urbano by Juan Miraflor, advocates democracy and is partial to casting ballots for town leaders.
The region also has the rawitdawit or narrative poem which was a vehicle of social and political criticism, not to mention personal poems which mushroomed right through the peninsula and at least 20 translations of Rizal’s Mi Ultimo Adios. Literature of Eastern Visayas
The literature of the Eastern Visayas, which refers to literature in Waray and Cebuano by writers from Samar and Leyte – the southern part of Leyte speaks Cebuano – has started to be collected, recorded and documented by scholars and researchers.
This movement has been jump-started by the interest of German priests who were managing a university in Tacloban City.
Early chronicles of East Visayan literature date back to the 17th century when Spanish Jesuit, Fr. Ignatio Francisco Alzina, documented the poetic forms like the candu, haya, ambahan, canogon, bical, balac, siday and awit.
He also described the early forms of narratives in the region, the susumaton and posong.
At the same time theater presentations – the performances of poetry, rituals and Dances mimed the joys, grief, and other activities of the ancient Waray.
According to scholars and authorities
of East Visayan literature, modern East Visayan literature, especially Waray, revolves around poetry and drama which were churned out from the 1900s to date. Waray poetry particularly blossomed with the publication of An Kaadlawon, the first Waray newspaper.
The two islands of Samar and Leyte had magazines which published articles and literary works in Spanish and Waray, including, in Leyte, the satirical poems of Bagong Katipunero, Luro, Datoy Anilod, Ben Tamaka and Kalantas – pseudonyms which allowed the poets to criticize corrupt government officials, made fun of people’s vices, and attack the women of the area for adopting trendy social behavior.
Many of the Cebuano tales reflect lessons in life and as many suggest the intrinsic worth of humor, wit and resourcefulness
When local newspapers ceased as vehicles for written poetry, radio stations took over the role, much like radio stations in Cagayan Valley which had air time for Bucanegan, the poetic jousts similar to the Balagtasan of the Tagalog provinces, particularly Bulacan.
The Eastern Visayas also had, like other regions of the country, sarzuelas, enthralling captive audiences with their innate musicality and drama.
The region also boasts hadi-hadi, which antedates sarzuela as far as development is concerned.
Central Visayas literature Sandwiched between the Eastern Visayas and the Western Visayas is Central Visayas, where Cebuano literature, both oral and written, depicts the character of many who live in Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Negros Oriental and the southern part of Leyte and some parts of Mindanao.
The Cebuanos, who speak Bisaya or Cebuano language, the mother tongue of about one-fourth of the country’s nearly 88 million people, have a rich oral tradition.
This includes legends associated with particular localities, like the Maria Caco legends of southern Cebu and those of Lapulapu and his father Datu Manggal of Mactan.
They also have folktales like the fable Haring Ganggis ug Haring Leon, which warn of abusive behavior by the dominant group.
Many of the tales reflect lessons in life and as many suggest the intrinsic worth of humor, wit and resourcefulness, as can be read in Juan Pusong trickster tales.
Cebuano literature also has plates for the early poetic forms of garay (verses), harito (shaman’s prayers), tigmo (riddles) and panultihon (proverbs).
AFP kowtows to US proxy aggression
By Herman Tiu Laurel
THE Philippines, an article written by Jose Antonio Goitia (Manila Standard, Nov. 25, 2025 issue titled “The AFP’s strategic shield),” kowtows to the malicious strategy of the US of pushing vassal countries like the Philippines to do its mischief all over the world at the cost of the proxy countries’ own welfare and peace.
Let’s look at the case of the Philippines under the present political and military authorities, with the president directing the chief of the Armed Forces, General Romeo Brawner Jr., to “prepare for a 30day conflict before allies can intervene.” This was announced by Brawner to the media himself early last month. This exposes a national security plan and its limitation to whatever enemy the president and Brawner are referring to. Who are the allies Brawner was referring to? We can only surmise it’s the United States and its coterie of subservient former Western colonial powers G-7 cohorts and its World War II defeated enemy Japan.
Let us look into the record of these countries in the wars they initiated and then abandoned too the defeat of their proxies or destruction of the country: Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, Syria, and the latest, now Ukraine – to name a few.
The Philippines will be left behind by history if it doesn’t change course away from the colonial Unipolar master the US
Unlike the president and Brawner, Gotia’s article was not coy about naming the enemy he was referring to, saying Beijing’s strategy in its South China Sea territorial claims and defense “has been one of intimidation – a calculated bet that a smaller nation will eventually fold under the weight of constant harassment.”
EDITORIAL
Reading the fine print
THE resignation this week of former Public Works secretary Rogelio Singson from the three-member Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has been read differently from dissimilar angles.
Understandably, even as they are looking at the same development, preceded two months back by the resignation from the ICI of incumbent Baguio City mayor Benjie Magalong as special adviser, eventually replaced by former PNP chief Rodolfo Azurin.
First off, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. established on Sept. 11, 2025, the ICI through Executive Order 94, with three members to investigate irregularities in flood control projects and all national government infrastructure works throughout the years he highlighted in his fourth State of the Nation Address on July 28.
The ICI is headed by retired Supreme Court justice Andres B. Reyes Jr. (chairperson); with Singson, and Rossana A. Fajardo, country managing partner at SGV & Co. as members.
Azurin has since replaced Magalong as the Special Adviser and Investigator.
Given the resignations there is need to read the fine print, even as we must exert efforts to read between the lines and try to construe their statements, in
fairness to them and what might be ignored as some grain of truth.
Given the credentials of Singson as DPWH secretary in an earlier administration, his resignation is definitely more than a ripple, where many are seeing perhaps ignoble political shadows.
To give Singson a fair shake, we need to review unreasonable theories in face of his health complaints he called red flags
Let’s get it straight from the 77-yearold Singson, whose resignation he said was up to Dec. 15 and may be extended up to yearend, a span that has been ignored by patellar reflexes in many political analyses.
Singson said “We were asked to go to war without the necessary ammunition,” adding health issues prompted his resignation from the ICI, rejecting insinuations of supposed interference from Malacanang. “I myself have not talked to anyone in the Palace. I have not talked to the president about the ICI work… As I keep saying to everyone, we will go where the evidence leads us,” Singson said in an interview heard nationwide. Singson, who was prescribed for the first time medication for high blood pressure, cholesterol and uric acid, added: “Nobody pressured me to leave and I’m not under the gun to leave or because there are certain things that I want to do that I cannot do – that’s not true.”
“I’ve never had maintenance medication until I stepped into ICI,” he said, emphasizing his ICI work required him to review numerous documents and do legal research. But we need to lend an ear to what he said should be his possible replacement: “best to have a lawyer, a certified public accountant with a track record in prosecution.”
To give Singson a fair shake, we need to review unreasonable theories in face of his health complaints he called red flags, and await, as we must, the results of ICI investigations which are chasing evidence beyond allegations and accusations.
Flight risk? Uncertainty clouds Venezuela’s airspace
CARACAS – Airlines have can-
celed flights to and from Venezuela’s Maiquetia Simon Bolivar international airport amid warnings from the United States, which has deployed a mighty naval force off the Caribbean coast.
Carriers serving Caracas, including Iberia, TAP, Avianca, GOL, LATAM, Air Europa, Turkish and Plus Ultra have all suspended flights, while others avoid flying over Venezuelan airspace, which US President Donald Trump warned Saturday must be considered “closed.”
Panama’s Copa Airlines and low-cost subsidiary Wingo said Thursday they, too, had halted flights for two days after pilots reported interruptions in navigation signals near Venezuela.
Copa later prolonged its suspension to December 12 “while continuing to evaluate the conditions that guarantee operational safety on its flights to Venezuela.”
For its part, Colombia’s state-owned airline Satena on Thursday indefinitely suspended flights over “interferences... recorded in satellite navigation systems.”
Aviation tracking site FlightRadar24 showed hardly any activity over the country Thursday, with no incoming or outgoing flights served by non-Venezuelan carriers.
Here’s what we know:
Is Venezuelan airspace closed?
At the end of November, US aviation authorities urged civilian aircraft to “exercise caution” in Venezuelan airspace due to the “worsening security situation and heightened military activity in or around” the country.
Then on Saturday, US President Donald Trump warned: “To all Airlines,
Goitia is imagining things. it has been the Philippine maritime security and other assets that sail to challenge and provoke Chinese response.
(Editor’s Note: Filipino fishermen have been harassed by Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea at various times, with multiple incidents reported since at least 2012.
(Last October, Chinese forces were reported by PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela to have operated “very close” to Pag-asa (Thitu) Island, deploying a large flotilla to harass a Philippine humanitarian mission for local fishermen.
(The flotilla, consisting of more than 15 Chinese maritime militia ships, five China Coast Guard vessels, a People’s Liberation Army Navyship, and a helicopter, harassed Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources vessels as close as 1.6 to 1.8 nautical miles from the island’s shores.)
There has been repeated foray of the Philippine Coast Guard and Bureau of Fisheries ships sailing to Scarborough Shoal where the Chinese Coast Guard have effectively established their presence.
The Philippines claimed the Chinese Coast Guard harassed and blocked Fili-
Pilots, Drug Dealers, and Human Traffickers please consider THE AIRSPACE ABOVE AND SURROUNDING VENEZUELA TO BE CLOSED IN ITS ENTIRETY.”
The US president did not elaborate, and no formal prohibition has been issued for Venezuelan airspace, which spans some 1.2 million square kilometers (463,000 square miles) including maritime space near the US naval deployment.
Colombia’s stateowned airline Satena on Thursday (Friday, Manila time) indefinitely suspended flights over ‘interferences... recorded in satellite navigation systems’
In response to the precautionary flight cancellations, Venezuela’s aviation authority banned several airlines for “joining the actions of state terrorism promoted by the United States.” Venezuelan airspace is “closed in practice,” Oscar Palma, a security expert and professor at Colombia’s Rosario University, told AFP. Officially closing airspace usually
pino fishermen from fishing in the area. But the PCG and BFAR have made repeated “missions” to “deliver food and fuel” there (the only area off limits is the lagoon, a fish sanctuary).
The PCG and BFAR deliver to the fishing area of Scarborough to “video op” confrontation with the Chinese Coast Guard and report to Western and domestic media “harassment” and watercannoning incidents that become routine when official vessels of the Philippine government enter “territorial waters” claimed by China. We all know, water cannons are used in regular police action and classified as non-aggressive used by many countries around the South China Sea and our own police. China is not an aggressive state, the whole world called the Global Majority love and embrace it as a friendly, helpful state that has launched massive economic development programs around the world, including in developing countries under the Belt and Road Initiative investing $ 1.3-trillion in roads, railways, ports, and energy projects in 140 countries, spurring growth and new productivity from Africa to Latin American to the Middle East and around Asia and Central Asia. One recent example is the $ 3.6-billion
“involves the capacity, availability, and willingness to shoot down any aircraft crossing,” he added.
“Is he (Trump) really willing to enforce this type of rule by force? We have doubts, but with the Trump administration, one never knows.” Since September, the US military has bombed more than 20 boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean, alleged to be transporting drugs without any evidence made public.
At least 83 people have died, many of them fishermen according to their families and governments.
Who is still flying?
Only four international departures and three arrivals were planned for Maiquetia on Thursday, to and from Curacao, Havana and Bogota, all operated by Venezuelan carriers.
In response to Trump’s airspace announcement, US flights of deported migrants returning home to Venezuela were initially blocked.
But days later, it reauthorized such flights at the request of Washington, which has made undocumented migration a key policy issue. A plane with migrants arrived Wednesday at Maiquetia, with another scheduled for Friday. Is it risky?
Despite the lack of an official closure, “there is a risk” airlines, plane lessors, insurers and pilot unions may just not be willing to take, said a Venezuelan aviation security expert who asked not to be named.
In addition, “there is talk of electromagnetic interferences that render GPS inoperative during flight, which is a risk to consider,” he added. AFP
Chancy Port China built for Peru that opens direct sea route from Asia mainland to Latin America that cuts transport time between the two regions by 23 days and saves 20 percent in cost. making Latin America exports more affordable to Asia and vice versa.
The Philippines gained from the BRI, like the Chico River Pump Project, irrigating 10,000 hectares of Kalinga and Cagayan while the ongoing Kaliwa Dam will supply additional 600 million liters of water per day to Metro-Manila. It is the Philippines that is missing the boat to China while the rest of ASEAN and the Global Majority are all aboard. China has made many attempts offering the olive branch to the Philippines, offering constant dialogue and “meeting halfway” as former ambassador to Manila Huang Xilian repeated at least three times. The Philippines will be left behind by history if it doesn’t change course away from the colonial Unipolar master the US to the new Multipolar world led by the Global Majority guided by China. (The author, a broadcast journalist, supports Philippines-China understanding, organized the Philippine BRICS Strategic Studies think tank dedicated to promoting global multi-polarity.).
Modi, Putin talk defense, Ukraine
IN BRIEF
Grand jury declines to indict Trump foe
WASHINGTON, DC – A grand jury declined on Thursday (Friday, Manila time) to indict New York Attorney General Letitia James, a political foe of President Donald Trump, on mortgage fraud charges, US media reported. The failure by federal prosecutors to secure an indictment of James comes less than two weeks after the initial case against her was tossed out.
District Judge Cameron Currie dismissed the case against James -- and another against former FBI chief James Comey -- on the grounds that the US attorney handpicked by Trump who brought the charges was unlawfully appointed.
NBC News said different prosecutors presented the James case to a grand jury in Norfolk, Virginia, on Thursday but failed to get an indictment.
The television network said the Justice Department could still try again.
James, 67, a Democrat who successfully prosecuted Trump for fraud, was indicted in October on one count of bank fraud and a second one of making false statements to a financial institution. AFP
HK university axes student union
HONG KONG – A Hong Kong university ordered its student union to shut down after a message was posted on campus expressing condolences and urging justice for the victims of a major fire, according to a letter publicly shared on Friday.
The blaze that ripped through Wang Fuk Court in the city’s northern Tai Po district last week killed at least 159 people and was the world’s deadliest residential building fire since 1980.
The Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) said it will “suspend the operations” of the student union acting executive committee with immediate effect and take over their facilities, according to a letter shared on social media by the union on Friday.
The school cited reasons such as a lack of representation and poor financial management, which the union called “unfounded and arbitrary”.
“The university’s irrational action raises concerns about potential ulterior motives behind this forced suspension,” the union said in a statement. AFP
“Police
NEW DELHI – India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted Russia’s President Vladimir Putin Friday, with defense and trade ties at center stage as New Delhi faces heavy US pressure to stop buying Moscow’s oil.
Putin was given a red carpet welcome with honor guard and 21-gun salute at the presidential palace in New Delhi, before a formal summit meeting with Modi began.
Big ticket defense sales and co-production ventures, energy purchases, and wider economic engagement are on the agenda, Putin’s first visit to India since the Ukraine war.
Putin, sitting beside Modi at the start of talks, said he expected a “fruitful” day tackling a “a great number of documents,” including in areas of defense, technology, aircraft and space exploration.
Both leaders will discuss the geopolitical situation in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and global trade disruptions triggered by tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump. Modi welcomed Putin at the airport on Thursday with a warm hug, before the two rode together in the same car to a private dinner -- mirroring a lift that Putin gave Modi when they last met in China in September.
“India-Russia friendship is a time-tested one that has greatly benefited our peo-
Macron to end 4-day China visit on lighter note
CHENGDU, China – An ancient dam, pandas and ping-pong: French leader
Emmanuel Macron concludes his fourth state visit to China on Friday, striking a more relaxed note after some tough discussions with his counterpart Xi Jinping the previous day on Ukraine and trade.
The French president and his wife Brigitte will head to the city of Chengdu in the southwestern Sichuan province, to meet the Chinese presidential couple in a setting worlds apart from the monumental and solemn Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
Emmanuel Macron said he was “very touched” by this gesture, a departure
from official protocol, after he hosted Xi in the Pyrenees in May 2024, a place where Macron spent time as a child.
These are all signs of mutual trust and a desire to “act together” at a time when international tensions are rising and trade imbalances are widening to China’s advantage, he emphasized on Thursday.
After his visit to the Pyrenees, Xi has chosen to take his guest to the slopes of Mount Qingcheng, at around 726 meters elevation, where an imposing dam and third-century BC irrigation system are located.
The two presidential couples will conclude their reunion with lunch, before
Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron continue with a more personal agenda.
In Chengdu, China’s fourth-largest city with 21 million inhabitants that is considered one of the most culturally and socially open in China, Macron will meet with students.
Brigitte Macron, for her part, will visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where two 17-year-old pandas, loaned to France in 2012 as part of China’s “panda diplomacy”, have just returned.
There, she will meet Yuan Meng, the first giant panda born in France in 2017, to whom she is “Godmother”, and who
ple,” Modi wrote in a post on social media, accompanying a photograph of them grinning together inside the vehicle. It was a symbolic show of friendship, after US President Donald Trump imposed 50-percent tariffs on most Indian products in August, citing Delhi’s continued purchases of Russian oil -- revenue Washington argues helps fund the war in Ukraine.
Putin on Friday said he had shared with Modi “a great deal of details about the events taking place in Ukraine” and the efforts Moscow is taking “together with some partners, including the United States, on a possible peaceful settlement”, according to an official translator.
“Thank you for the attention and for your efforts in finding a solution to this situation,” Putin told Modi, who replied that India was “on the side of peace.” India is walking a diplomatic tightrope -- relying on strategic Russian oil imports while trying not to provoke Trump during ongoing tariff negotiations.
“Balancing acts are second nature to Indian foreign policy making,” Pankaj Saran, a former Indian envoy to Russia, wrote in the Times of India on Friday. AFP
reads an online description. AFP
SYDNEY – TikTok said Friday it will comply with Australia’s imminent ban on under-16s joining social media on the day it comes into force, but told users the changes “may be upsetting”.
Australia’s world-first legislation comes into effect Dec. 10, curbing the world’s most popular social media platforms and websites, including TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.
Companies face fines of Aus$49.5
million (US$32 million) if they fail to take “reasonable steps” to comply.
TikTok will block under-16s in Australia on the day the law comes into effect, it said, meaning they will no longer be able to hold or create an account.
“Teens with an existing account will be notified that they will no longer be able to use their existing account, which will become inactive,” it said.
“If they previously published content, it will no longer be available for others to view on TikTok.”
The social media giant said youngsters who have been blocked can submit an appeal to prove their age, including by facial images, credit card authorization or official ID. AFP
the trade imbalances with France and Europe. AFP
Rains
WASHINGTON, DC – The Pentagon said Thursday (Friday, Manila time) it has endorsed the tripartite AUKUS security pact with the United Kingdom and Australia, which would involve Canberra’s acquisition of at least three Virginia-class nuclear submarines within 15 years.
The administration of Donald Trump said earlier this year it was reviewing a 2021 deal for the nuclear-powered attack subs signed under his presidential predecessor Joe Biden.
The Department of Defense completed its five-month review, which endorsed the AUKUS agreement and determined it is “in alignment with President Trump’s America First agenda,” Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement.
“Consistent with President Trump’s guidance that AUKUS should move ‘full steam ahead,’ the review identified opportunities to put AUKUS on the strongest possible footing.”
Pentagon confirms submarine sales to Australia TikTok to comply with ‘upsetting’ Australians under-16 ban
Congressman Joe Courtney, the top Democrat on a US House subcommittee on sea power, said the review’s completion assures that the pact’s “framework is aligned with our country’s national security interest.”
“With its completion, it is important to note that the 2021 AUKUS agreement has now survived three changes of government in all three nations and still stands strong.”
Courtney is a vocal champion of AUKUS in Congress, and represents a Connecticut district that is home to the primary submarine manufacturing facility in the United States.
The AUKUS pact aims to arm Australia with a fleet of cutting-edge submarines from the United States and would provide for cooperation in developing an array of warfare technologies.
The submarines, the sale of which will begin in 2032, lie at the heart of Australia’s strategy of improving its long-range strike capabilities in the Pacific, particularly against China.
The deal could cost Canberra up to US$235 billion over the next 30 years, and also includes the technology to build its own vessels in the future. AFP
hamper Sri Lanka
cleanup after floods that killed nearly 500
COLOMBO – Heavy rains lashed Sri Lanka on Friday, hampering a major clean-up operation after severe flooding and landslides last week killed nearly 500 people, officials said. Authorities reported up to 132 millimeters of rainfall in southern Sri Lanka over a 15-hour period ending Thursday night. But while the deluge was intense, they said the large-scale flooding seen since last week had begun to subside.
The Disaster Management Center said 486 people had been confirmed killed and another 341 were still unaccounted for after Cyclone Ditwah left the island on Saturday. The number of people in state-run refugee camps has dropped to 170,000 from a peak of 225,000 as floodwaters receded in and around the capital Colombo. Record rainfall triggered floods and deadly landslides, with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake saying it was the most challenging natural disaster to hit
the island in its history. Residents evacuated from the landslide-prone central hills have been told not to return immediately to their homes, even if they were unaffected by the slides, as the mountainsides remained unstable. In the central town of Gampola, residents worked to clear the mud and water damage.
“We are getting volunteers from other areas to help with this clean-up,” Muslim cleric Faleeldeen Qadiri told AFP at the Gate Jumma Mosque.
“We have calculated that it takes 10 men a whole day to clean one house,” said a volunteer, who gave his name as Rinas. “No one can do this without help.” The top official in charge of the recovery, Prabath Chandrakeerthi, Commissioner-General of Essential Services, said authorities were
SYMBOLIC FRIENDSHIP. In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin inspects a guard of honor during his ceremonial reception at India’s presidential palace, Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on Friday. Both leaders discussed the geopolitical situation following the Russian invasion of Ukraine and global trade disruptions triggered by tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump. AFP
TENTATIVE SIGNALS. France’s President Emmanuel Macron (center) and his wife Brigitte Macron (left) disembark from their plane upon their arrival at Chengdu International Airport in southwestern China’s Sichuan province on Thursday. On Thursday in Beijing, the French president urged his Chinese counterpart to work towards ending the war in Ukraine and to correct
Severino, Mendoza top blitz in Asian PWD chess
By Randy M. Caluag
FIDE Master Sander Severino and lawyer Cheyzer Crystal Mendoza led Team Philippines to an outstanding performance, ruling the blitz division of the Asian Chess Championship for Players with Disabilities, held Thursday in Tagaytay City.
Severino dominated the men’s blitz event, finishing clear first with 4 points in five rounds behind three wins and two draws. John Franz De Asis and Henry Roger Lopez also ended with strong scores, but De Asis secured the silver medal after edging Lopez on tie-breaks. In the women’s blitz competition, Mendoza captured the gold medal with 3.5 points, while Cheryl Angot followed with 2.5 points to clinch silver. Aiganym Kambarova of Kazakhstan took bronze after prevailing over Jean-Lee Nacita on superior tie-breaks. Filipino players also asserted their dominance in the rapid event, where Arman Subaste, Menandro Redor, and Israel Peligro swept the podium, bagging gold, silver, and bronze, respectively.
In the standard division, Bernardo battled to a draw with Kazakhstan’s Alimzhan Ayapov, resulting in a five-way tie for first place with 3 points. Joining them in the logjam were Henry Roger Lopez, FM Sirojiddin Zaynidinov, and Axadxon Kimsanboyev of Uzbekistan.
On the women’s side, Kyla Jane Langue and Thi Hong Nguyen of Vietnam also ended in a deadlock, splitting the point in Round 4 to share the lead with 3.5 points apiece.
The championship is organized by the Tagaytay Chess Club, in cooperation with the National Chess Federation of the Philippines and the Philippine Para Chess Association, under the auspices of the Asian Chess Federation and FIDE. The tournament offers direct FIDE titles, trophies for champions, and medals for the top three competitors across visually impaired, physically impaired, and hearing-impaired divisions.
Infantino hails PH’s ‘fantastic’
FIFA Futsal World Cup hosting
THE world’s best players and the most passionate fans alike have been having a ball at what FIFA president Gianni Infantino described as a “fantastic” staging of the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup in the Philippines.
Infantino himself was at ringside on opening night to witness history and loved the electric atmosphere that has become a constant at the PhilSports Arena in every match day since then.
“It’s the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup number one – the first, the first! Now the second, the third, the fourth, the fifth might be bigger, might be whatever you want, but the first is here, it is now. We are writing history and to do it here in such a welcoming beautiful country is something really special for FIFA, for the Philippines, for all these girls
who are playing,” Infantino said.
“Just fantastic,” he stressed.
The FIFA chief lauded the prime movers behind the country’s hosting led by the Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Football Federation.
“I think it’s about time that a big country like the Philippines, who is known all over the world for being such a welcoming country, is hosting a big FIFA event,” he said.
“To host the first one of what will be a competition that will grow immensely all over the world is something which is even more special. So, I’m really proud and really happy of
what the Philippines have done here,” he added.
The 16-nation competition served as platform for participants to make history, too.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Office of the President,
Filipino stars weigh in on Andrade-Baatarkhuu at ONE Fight Night 38
ONE Championship closes out
2025 this weekend at Bangkok’s legendary Lumpinee Stadium, and three Filipino bantamweight MMA contenders have shared their views on the explosive main event that could reshape the division.
ONE Fight Night 38: Andrade vs. Baatarkhuu on Prime Video features reigning ONE Bantamweight MMA World Champion Fabricio “Wonder Boy” Andrade defending his throne against #4-ranked challenger “The Tormentor” Enkh-Orgil Baatarkhuu of Mongolia in what promises to be a stylistic battle for the ages.
Lions Nation MMA’s Jeremy “The Juggernaut” Pacatiw, who lost to Andrade via knockout back in 2022, is backing the Brazilian champion to retain his belt, citing his refined skillset as the deciding factor.
“Both athletes are exceptionally well-rounded in striking and on the ground. I lean toward Andrade because his timing and precision stand out, but I have great respect for Baatarkhuu’s explosive
and athleticism,” Pacatiw said.
“May the best man win, and may both athletes compete safely.”
On the other hand, Team Lakay’s Jhanlo Mark Sangiao sees the fight as a genuine tossup, with both men holding clear paths to victory. “The Machine” also succumbed to the Mongolian challenger via submission back in 2023.
“The Andrade vs. Baatarkhuu fight is gonna be a good match. Fabricio is an explosive striker and very tactical in the standup game, and he’ll face Enkh-Orgil, who’s a strong grappler with a big tank—he can grapple for five rounds,” Sangiao said.
“My thought is either Fabricio wins by knockout or Enkh-Orgil wins by submission.”
The statistics support both fighters’ finishing ability. Andrade brings an unblemished 7-0 record (1 no contest) in ONE Championship competition, including five knockouts and one submission. His striking has proven devastating at bantamweight, with opponents struggling to solve his
Fabricio Andrade and Enkh-Orgil Baatarkhuu
Meanwhile, Baatarkhuu—who recently gained global recognition as a finalist on Netflix’s Physical: Asia for Team Mongolia—owns a 6-1 promotional record with three submissions and one TKO. His grappling credentials are elite, and his ability to maintain a grueling pace for an entire fight makes him
a nightmare matchup for any striker who can’t keep the action standing. Team Lakay’s Carlo Bumina-ang didn’t pick a winner but promised fans would witness something special on Saturday night. “The Bull” also has history with Baatarkhuu, losing to ‘The Tormentor’ via submission last year.
Quezon, Binan dispute South Division MPBL crown
DEFENDING champion Quezon Province and Binan Tatak Gel clash for the South Division crown of the 747. LIVE presents Manny Paquiao MPBL 2025 Season at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday at the Quezon Convention Center in Lucena City, Binan weathered Quezon’s final assault to win Game 4, 57-53, on Wednesday and level their best-offive series at 2-2, necessitating the Game Five decider.
The Quezon Huskers, according to team manager Atty. Donn Kapunan will be saddled by the absence of top gunner Judel Fuentes, who hurt his left ankle after sinking a jumper and landing on the foot of Pamboy Raymundo early in the third quarter.
Sans Fuentes, who averaged 14 points and 5 rebounds in the first three games, LJay Gonzales and Gab Banal must work doubly hard.
At the same time, Ximone Sandagon, Joseph Gabayni and
Will Gozum need to step up, especially in the rebounding department.
As point guard Diego Dario’s return remains uncertain due to an injury, the Huskers may have to depend on Mon Abundo and local icon Topeng Lagrama to man the backcourt.
Compounding the Huskers’ woes are their poor free throw shooting, sinking only 33 of 65 attempts or just a little over 50 percent.
Binan will be powered by Kenny Roger Rocacurva, Carlo Lastimosa, Marc Pingris, Warren Bonifacio, Pamboy Raymundo and Jaymar Gimpayan in the Lagunenses quest for their first division title.
Quezon won Game One, 57-55, and Game Three, 66-56, while Binan stole Game Two, 68-65.
If the pattern in the first four games holds, the team ahead after the first quarter is likely to emerge as the South champion and clash with Abra, the North Division titlist, in the MPBL Seventh Season National Finals, starting on December 10, 2025.
and Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Pato Gregorio for their unwavering support in making the hosting of the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup possible,” said Philippine Football Federation president John Gutierrez.
“Their commitment and investment allowed the Philippines to showcase world-class hospitality and deliver an event that celebrates excellence, inclusivity, and the growth of the sport. This milestone for Philippine football would not have been achievable without their trust and partnership,” added Gutierrez.
The hosts Filipina5 scored their first goal, courtesy of Inday Tolentin, and followed it up with a second, from Cathrine Graversen, in their 2-3 loss to Morocco in Group A action. Isabella Bandoja accounted for a third strike in their 1-5 defeat to Argentina.
LeBron scoring streak ends as Hachimura, Reaves lift LA
LOS ANGELES—Rui Hachimura drilled a buzzer-beating three-pointer to lift the Los Angeles Lakers to a 123-120 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Thursday as LeBron James’s incredible streak of double-digit scoring games ended. With the NBA’s leading scorer Luka Doncic absent for personal reasons, Austin Reaves delivered a doubledouble of 44 points and 10 assists for the Lakers in a clash of East and West second-placed teams.
James scored eight points and handed out 11 assists, including the pass from the top of the key to Hachimura in the corner for the game-winner.
“That was crazy,” Japanese forward Hachimura said. “I never had a game-winner before.”
James saw his streak of 1,297 games with 10 or more points end -- a run that began in January 2007.
But the league’s all-time leading scorer said he didn’t hesitate to dish to Hachimura on the final play, with his path to the basket blocked and Reaves also under pressure.
“Just playing the game the right way,” said the 40-year-old James, who is in his unprecedented 23rd season. “Always make the right play. That’s how I was taught the game.”
James last failed to score in double digits on January 5, 2007, but when asked his thoughts on the end of that remarkable run he said he had none, adding only: “We won.”
James struggled with his shot much of the night, connecting on just four of 17 and missing all five of his three-point attempts.
“LeBron is acutely aware of how many points he has at that point,” said Lakers coach JJ Redick, who added he wasn’t surprised to see James make “the right play.”
“He did it like he’s done so many times,” Redick said.
“The basketball gods, if you do it the right way, they tend to reward you,” Redick said. Scottie Barnes scored 23 points and Brandon Ingram added 20 for the Raptors, who had seven players score in double figures but dropped to third in the East behind Detroit and New York.
The Lakers continue their road trip against the Celtics in Boston on Friday.
The Celtics rolled past the last-placed Wizards 146-101 in Washington to grab their eighth win in 10 games. AFP
Members of the Philippine Team in the Asian Chess Championship for Players with Disabilities
LJay Gonzales will be Quezon’s go-to-guy against Binan in Game Five.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI,
RANDY M. CALUAG,
EDGARD HILARIO,
Knights sweep Altas to get back in finals; Blazers alive
By Peter Atencio
AFTER three years, the Letran Knights are back in the finals.
Jun Roque’s two charity shots in the last three seconds made this possible as the Knights went on to eke out a hard-earned 74-70 stopping of the University of Perpetual Help Altas on Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Jonathan Manalili chipped in game-high 16 points for the Knights, who went on to post a two-game sweep of their best-of-three semifinals series with the Altas in the 101st National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament.
“Hindi namin ma-feel ang game kanina. Panalangin ko na lang na sana magkaroon kami ng stops, somehow magkaroon kami ng good executions. The team is
blessed na nandito na kami sa championship. Now, we will work on this,” said coach Allen Ricardo of Letran, which is back in the title hunt, following back-to-back title conquests in 2021 and 2022.
Ricardo is best known for coaching the Letran Squires to their first NCAA junior crown in Season 98.
Patrick Sleat unloaded 17 points for the Altas, who were forced to a turnover and three misses in the final minute.
Meanwhile, the College of St. Benilde Blazers’ nerves of steel and Ian Torres’ winning shot at endgame gave them a fighting chance in Game 2 of their battle with the San Beda Red Lions.
After the Lions bungled two winning opportunities, Torres’ jumper in the final second lifted the Blazers to a 77-75 triumph over the Mendiola dribblers to equalize the best-of-three semis series at 1-all.
“I give the players credit. They did not panic today. It’s something we talked about,” said
Blazers’ coach Charles Tiu.
The win put the Blazers in a do-or-die encounter with the Red Lions in Game 3 on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum. Winston Ynot showed the way for the Blazers with 19 points and seven rebounds, with his layup in the last 6:21 putting them in a 62-all deadlock with San Beda.
“We can’t expect San Beda to fold because they are a good team. For awhile, we were holding the fort, and because of the shots that they were making. Then Ian made a bad shot, but after that, he made a big one and it was a game winner,” added Tiu.
In junior action, the Mapua Red Robins beat the Arellano Braves, 86-82, tying their semis series at 1-all, with Jhillian Pallis and Chris Parame hitting 18 points each.
The EAC Brigadiers held down the Letran Squires, 75-70, to equalize their semis series, with Clint Bonus shooting 20 points.
PH to field 48 athletes in 2025 Asian Youth Para Games
THE Philippines will be fielding a lean 48-athlete delegation seeking nothing less than making the country proud in the 2025 Asian Youth Para Games happening on Dec. 7 to 14 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
The Nationals will be competing across nine sports, with goalball sending 12 para athletes — six in the men’s division and six in the women’s side — followed by athletics with 10. Seven Filipino para swimmers will also be participating, as well as four each in powerlifting, table tennis, and wheelchair basketball; three in badminton, and two each in boccia and archery.
Milette Santiago-Bonoan, the PH team’s chief of mission to the Games, expressed confidence in the delega-
tion’s potential in this premier youth para-sport event, which aims to develop the next generation of Asian paraathletes and provide them valuable international exposure.
“I’m just glad that they have the opportunity to compete at this level,” said Santiago-Bonoan. “They have the heart to represent the country in any way they can.”
She added that the team’s participation hopes to encourage more institutions to further embrace inclusivity in their sports programs.
“Sports build character and self-esteem. These kinds of events are important for these kids, because it gives them hope and confidence. It inspires them to be better, so this tournament matters so much,” Santiago-Bonoan said.
In the previous edition held in Manama, Bahrain, the PH team brought home with one gold medal courtesy of
PH’s 1st WTA event lures 40 top-rated players; Eala’s participation still up in air
WITH or without Filipina tennis star, world’s no. 50 Alexandra Eala, the inaugural Philippine Women’s Open, a WTA 125 tournament, has initially lured 40 of the world’s top players.
Local organizers took pride on the number of professional players that have signed up for the first-ever staging of the Women’s Tennis Association-level professional netfest slated to take place from January 26 to 31, 2026, in Manila.
With repairs and makeovers being rushed at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center venue, this will be the first time the Philippines will host a WTA 125 event.
“Hopefully, we can work together, and make this successful, and a memorable one to all who participated,” said Philippine Tennis Association secretary general and Navotas Mayor John Rey Tiangco, who talked about
Archers face Bulldogs, eye UAAP Finals
DE La Salle University is looking to become the first fourth seed in six years to reach the UAAP men’s basketball Finals, facing a National University team suddenly on the brink of elimination in a no-tomorrow matchup Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
A full-strength Green Archers finally cracked the code against the No. 1 Bulldogs, winning 87-77 last Wednesday to force a decisive rubber match. The winner of Saturday’s 3:30 p.m. clash will face defending champion University of the Philippines in the best-of-three Finals beginning Wednesday.
De La Salle aims to be the first No. 4 team since the 2019 University of Santo Tomas squad to reach the championship round. The 2013 UST and 2014 NU teams also reached the league’s biggest stage as fourth-ranked squads.
After a rocky 2-3 start plagued by injuries and suspensions, the Green Archers are now on the cusp of securing a third consecutive championship berth and a chance to reclaim the throne lost to the Fighting Maroons last season. “Well, for us, it’s really been hard to make it here. It wasn’t given to us. We earned it. And earning it together, it’s really big to lose Kean (Baclaan) and Mason (Amos) at the start of the season. But again, we’re just fortunate. We’re just blessed to have these players that are really willing to give up their own agenda heading into the season just to contribute. It’s really hard to take care of all this talent and put it in one basket without the basket wrapping,” said De La Salle head coach Topex Robinson. “But again, these guys really were positive, led by positive leaders, and it’s just a testament of how these guys really support and trust each other. And I’m just so fortunate to be under these players, learning also as well as we go through these challenging times because what we’ve been through in the eliminations was really challenging. But they made it easier for me as a coach because they made me feel safe and knowing that they’re going to really fight it till the end. Again, we’re just fortunate to be here and so blessed to be here,” he added.
para swimmer Ariel Joseph Alegarbes, along with six silvers and two bronzes across swimming, athletics and table tennis.
Alegarbes has since moved up to the senior level, winning medals in the ASEAN Para Games and representing the country at the World Para Swimming Championships this year.
Other former Filipino medalists in the Asian Youth Para Games include multiple ASEAN Para Games gold medalist and Paralympian swimmer Angel Otom; fellow Paralympian swimmer Gary Bejino; and para-table tennis players Linard Sultan and Mary Eloise Sable, who each won medals in separate doubles events at the ITTF World Para Future Tournament in Chinese Taipei last June.
the event during a press conference at the Lanson Place inside the Mall Asia Complex in Pasay City.
The tournament is jointly organized with the assistance of the Philippine Sports Commission and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority.
Eala’s stint is still up in the air and will depend on how far she will go in the Australian Open, as the two-week tournament will place from January 12 to February 1, 2026, in Melbourne, Australia. The Australian Open’s main draw action will begin on January 18, with Madison Keys defending her women’s singles crown. The first week will be the qualifiers and the first two rounds.
Staging the Philippine Women is considered milestone for Philippine tennis as this will provide two local players with a rare opportunity of an international exposure at home as they are chosen as wildcard entries. Tiangco explained if any player like Eala does not advance further into the Australian Open, they will have the option of flying to Manila to sign up.
REIGNING champions National University–Nazareth School and the University of Santo Tomas look to defend their respective crowns in the girls’ and boys’ divisions as the UAAP Season 88 High School Volleyball Final Four fires off today (Saturday) at the Blue Eagle Gym in Loyola Heights, Quezon City. The Lady Bullpups and the Junior Golden Spikers, however, enter the semifinals from opposite directions. NUNS, armed with a league-best 13–1 record, secured the top seed and a twiceto-beat advantage against the fourthseeded Junior Golden Tigresses (8–6). Meanwhile, on the boys’ side, the Junior Golden Spikers—who finished fourth at 9–5—must win twice to unseat the 13–1, No. 1 seed Bullpups. The Lady Bullpups swept their elimination-round battles against the Junior Golden Tigresses, taking a 3–1 win in the first round before surviving a thrilling five-set rematch in the second. They aim for a third win in their 3 p.m. duel in Quezon City.
“Parang slowly but surely siguro nakaka-adjust na ‘yung team sa isa’t isa at sa kalaban,” said NUNS head coach Karl Dimaculangan.
“Magandang bagay na nakukuha nila ‘yung confidence nila every game, especially nitong second round. Sana matuluy-tuloy namin,” added the bemedalled mentor, who will bank on Diza Beroya and Rain Navarro as they chase back-toback titles.
Organizers of the rst WTA 125-Philippine Women’s Open Tennis Tournament gather during a presentation at the Lanson Place. They are Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority chief Mark Lapid (fourth from left), PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio (center) and Philippine Tennis Association secretary general, Navotas City mayor John Rey Tiangco. They are joined by AVC chief Ramon Suzara (left).
Letran’s Jun Roque (left) tries to stop an attacking Patrick Sleat of Perpetual Help.
Geopolitics Insight, in cooperation with the Korea University ASEAN Center (KUAC), the Stratbase Institute and the University of the Philippines Korea Research Center (UPKRC), holds the ASEANKorea Forum at the Admiral Hotel in Manila on Dec. 5, 2025. Korea and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have reaffirmed their commitment to deeper regional economic ties, setting an ambitious target to reach $300 billion in annual bilateral trade by 2030. Attending the event are diplomats, regional leaders, scholars and policy experts. Joseph Muego
1.5% 1.7% 2.5%
Inflation rate in November 2025
November inflation fell to 1.5% on low food prices
By Thony Rose Lesaca
INFLATION rate eased to 1.5 percent in November 2025 from 1.7 percent in October, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Friday.
Inflation rate in October 2025
Inflation rate in November 2024
The Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) attributed the slowdown to government efforts to stabilize food supply and prices amid persisting global and domestic challenges.
Data released by the PSA showed the November figure is lower than 2.5 percent recorded in November 2024. This brought the 11-month inflation to 1.6 percent, below the government’s target range of 2 percent to 4 percent.
The continued decline was led by movement in food prices, which went
DOLE steps up nationwide drive to safeguard children
IN CELEBRATION of National Children’s Month, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has made a profound commitment to hope, distributing assistance to strengthen families and protect the nation’s most vulnerable children from the threat of labor exploitation. These initiatives formed part of the administration’s drive to build safer communities for children and expand income opportunities for households in need, aligning with President Ferdinand
R. Marcos’ commitment toward a childlabor-free Philippines. Throughout the month, DOLE regional offices mobilized awareness campaigns, community engagements, and livelihood interventions that brought services closer to children and parents. Activities included learning sessions, protection advocacy, and the distribution of support packages designed to ease financial pressures that often push children into hazardous work.
DOLE MEETS WORLD BANK TO TIGHTEN PARTNERSHIP. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), headed by Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma, meets with the representatives of the World Bank at the Occupational Safety and Health Center in Quezon City on 17 November 2025. The meeting aims to strengthen ongoing collaboration on digital workforce development, labor market reforms, and social protection initiatives. The discussion focused on the implementation of the Philippine Digital Workforce Competitiveness Act, the review of the Philippine Qualifications Framework, and the rollout of the Global Accelerator Initiative to boost decent job creation and social protection in priority sectors. Secretary Laguesma is joined by Undersecretary Carmela I. Torres, Assistant Secretary Joel M. Gonzales, and Bureau of Local Employment Director Patrick P. Patriwirawan, Jr. Representing World Bank are Director Zafer Mustafaoglu, Lead Economist Gonzalo Varela, Operations Manager Dandan Chen, Senior Economist Emman Montiel, and Senior Social Protection Specialist Ruth Rodriguez. Photos by Ali Creo/DOLE-IPS
from a -0.3 percent to a 0.2 percent increase. This was fueled by a nearflat increase of 0.1 percent in food and non-alcoholic beverages, and slower inflation for vegetables, which eased to -6.5 percent from 2.9 percent and meat, which slowed to 4.2 percent from 5.2 percent.
These gains offset faster price increases for fish and non-food items, which were affected by higher electricity and personal transport costs.
“Inflation is projected to average below the low-end of the target range
in 2025, primarily due to the decline in rice prices in previous months,” the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said in a statement.
Jonathan Ravelas, a senior adviser at Reyes Tacandong & Co., said the slower inflation rate due to lower food prices serves as a “welcome breather” that gave households some relief. He said the challenge now lies on how to maintain such a trend amid the volatility of global markets and possible El Niño risks.
“Let’s not celebrate too early. The challenge now is sustaining this trend amid volatile global markets and El Niño risks. Government should double down on food supply chain efficiency and invest in climateresilient agriculture. Stability is key,” said Ravelas.
Korea, ASEAN aim for $300-b trade by 2030
SOUTH Korea and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have reaffirmed a shared commitment to deeper regional economic ties, setting an ambitious target to reach $300 billion in annual bilateral trade by 2030.
The bold vision falls under the enhanced ASEAN–Korea Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP).
The long-term goal, formally adopted as part of Korea’s 2025-2030 economic engagement strategy, was a key highlight of the ASEAN–Korea Forum held in Manila.
Government officials, senior diplomats, policy experts and business leaders outlined a forward-looking cooperation framework anchored on digital transformation, innovation, improved market integration and supply-chain resilience.
A senior Korean official speaking at the forum cited the importance of the partnership.
Regional leaders, scholars, and policy experts convened at the ASEAN–Korea Forum held on December 5, 2025, marking the beginning of an “exciting era” in ASEAN–Korea relations driven by new strategic frameworks and the Philippines’ upcoming ASEAN Chairmanship.
With the theme “Korea’s New Vision for ASEAN: CSP (Contributor, Springboard, Partner),” the event was organized by Geopolitics Insight, in cooperation with the Korea University ASEAN Center (KUAC), the Stratbase Institute and the University of the Philippines Korea Research Center (UP-KRC).
DOLE marks 92nd anniversary with nationwide job fairs, livelihood under ‘Serbisyong Tapat at Nararapat’ theme
THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reaffirms its commitment to upholding honest and rightful service and bringing hope and opportunity to Filipino workers, as it celebrates its 92nd founding anniversary on December 8.
In line with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s efforts to ensure that every Filipino has access to job opportunities, DOLE, through its various regional offices, is offering a total of 74,687 job vacancies from 615 participating employers at job fairs scheduled from November 30 to December 10.
Jobs offered are in the business process outsourcing, retail, manufacturing, construction, and transportation sectors.
More than 9,000 beneficiaries in Regions 1, 3, CALABARZON, 6, 8, 11, and Caraga will also receive their stipends under the Government Internship Program (GIP), totaling over PHP 47 million. Under the DOLE’s Adjustment Measures Program (AMP), over 500 enterprises in NCR, Region 2, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Region 8, and Region 12 will receive financial subsidies amounting to over PHP 36 million to support their business operations.
Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) beneficiaries will also receive their salaries, totaling over PHP 174 million, while a distribution of JobStart stipends for 204 beneficiaries is worth over PHP 1.5 million.
92ND DOLE ANNIVERSARY JOB FAIR SITES. To mark its 92nd anniversary, the Department of Labor and Employment will hold job fairs across the country, providing more than 74,000 job openings.
Davao Region workers get livelihood aid, emergency work
A TOTAL of 940 individuals in the Davao Region were provided with livelihood and employment support under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program
(DILEEP) recently. In line with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s efforts to continuously uplift the lives of every Filipino worker, the Labor Department continuously strengthens its DILEEP implementation to provide disadvantaged workers with livelihood assistance, under its Integrated Livelihood (DILP) component, and emergency employment, under its Tulong Panghanapbuhay Sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers Program (TUPAD) component. In Davao, a total of PHP 14,526,690.00 has been allocated to fund these projects across the region. Under the DILP, 42 beneficiaries have been assisted through the Technical Advisory Visit (TAV) Plus of DOLE, while three workers’ organizations with a total of 200 members received support under the Department’s Workers’ Organization and Development Program (WODP) Plus.
#BATANGMALAYA. DOLE officials and partner agencies engage with communities nationwide to promote child protection and provide livelihood support for families during National Children’s Month 2025. Photos by DOLE Regional Offices
By Othel V. Campos
PANASONIC Manufacturing Philippines Corp. is set to expand its domestic operations with investments exceeding P3 billion, following the signing of registration and supplemental agreements with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) on Nov. 27, 2025.
Panasonic will manufacture electric fans, refrigerators and washing machines at its Laguna Technopark facility. Operations are expected to begin between 2026 and 2027, creating more than 340 jobs during the incentivized period.
Panasonic has operated in Laguna Technopark since 2003 as an export enterprise. In the domestic market, it holds the top spot in refrigerators and washing machines, and ranks second in air conditioners.
PEZA welcomed the company’s renewed commitment, pledging continued support to Panasonic as it scales up operations and generates new opportunities for Filipino workers and communities.
MANGROVE REFORESTATION. Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) Foundation adopts a National Greening Program (NGP) mangrove reforestation site in the coastal municipality of Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte, aimed at boosting environmental stewardship among stakeholders, local livelihood, and climate mitigation.
This environmental initiative is part of a commitment to nurture 1 million trees by 2030, as earlier announced by TMP and TMP Foundation chairman Alfred Ty during the Foundation’s 35th anniversary celebration in July.
Cebu Landmasters raises P4b from bond offering
By Jenniffer B. Austria
The issuance marks CLI’s second successful bond offering for 2025, following strong investor demand for its oversubscribed March SLB sale.
“This sustainability-linked issuance strengthens our drive to be the country’s most trusted developer—where
every project brings fulfillment to our customers and progress to the communities we serve,” CLI chairman and chief executive Jose Soberano III said Friday during the bond listing at the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp.
Soberano added, “It also reinforces our mission to deliver masterful real estate experiences that uplift lives and support nation-building, as we expand our ability to develop quality, affordable homes that move progress forward across the country.”
The bonds were issued as the third and final tranche from the company’s P15 billion shelf-registration program, covering Series F, G and H bonds maturing in 2029, 2032 and 2035. Demand was strong across all
DIGIPLUS Interactive Corp., the digital entertainment company behind BingoPlus, ArenaPlus and GameZone, said it will take part in the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) Asia Philippines on Dec. 10-11 at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City.
Erick Su, head of ArenaPlus, is scheduled to represent the company in a panel titled “Innovations in Responsible Gaming and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).”
The discussion is set for 2:45 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. on Dec. 11.
DigiPlus said it will share its approach to responsible gaming, including developments in player protection and CSR initiatives aimed at supporting both users and
Robinsons Hotels and Resorts (RHR), driven by its ‘Hospitality by Heart’ ethos, is recognized as one of the ‘Best Companies to Work For in Southeast Asia 2025’ by Great Place to Work. Shown are Robinsons Land Corp. president and chief executive Mybelle Aragon-GoBio (seated, fourth from the left); RHR senior vice-president and business unit general manager Barun Jolly (seated, center, fifth from the left); and RHR vice-president Annalyn Yap (seated, 3rd from the right) with their team.
local communities.
“As the pioneer and industry leader in Philippine online gaming and digital entertainment, DigiPlus is proud to be at the forefront of global industry dialogue at G2E Asia,” Su said. “Our participation will showcase how we champion responsible gaming and sustainable growth, as DigiPlus continues to evolve from a local to a global entertainment brand.”
The company, along with its brands BingoPlus, ArenaPlus and GameZone, is also serving as the Exclusive Conference Track Sponsor of G2E Asia @ the Philippines 2025, themed “Connecting People and Innovations for the Philippine Gaming Market.”
G2E Asia is a major international trade show and conference under the Global Gaming Expo series, which also includes G2E Las Vegas and G2E Macau. Jenniffer B. Austria
terms. The four-year Series F bonds raised P2.19 billion at an interest rate of 6.5408 percent, the seven-year Series G
with a 6.9572
Under its SLB framework, the company aims to build more than 16,000 additional affordable homes, bringing its total target across Visayas, Mindanao and upcoming Luzon projects to over 30,000 units by bond maturity.
PH stocks jump as inflation slows; peso stronger
PHILIPPINE shares ended the week in the green, rebounding strongly from yesterday’s decline as November inflation came in within expectations. The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) jumped 61.64 points, or 1.05 percent, to close at 5,949.22, while the broader all shares index advanced 19.03 points, or 0.55 percent, to 3,477.68. November inflation rate slowed to 1.5 percent from 1.7 percent in October. This brought the 11-month inflation to 1.6 percent, below the government’s target range of 2 percent to 4 percent.
Analysts said the easing inflation rate could justify another 25 basis points rate cut from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Luis Limlingan, head of sales at Regina Capital Development Capital, said investors positioned ahead of next week’s US Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision.
Sectors, however, ended mixed. Services jumped the most, up 3.93 percent, while property and mining and oil rose 0.82 percent and 0.47 percent, respectively.
On the other hand, holding firms declined 0.45 percent, while financial and industrial slipped by 0.15 percent and 0.08 percent, respectively. Value turnover reached P5.17 billion. Foreign investors were net sellers with outflows of P598.26 million. Decliners, however, edged gainers 95 to 83.
International Container Terminal Services Inc. was the day’s top gainer, increasing by 6.63 percent to P587, while Alliance Global Group Inc. was the main index decliner, down 3.73 percent to P6.45.
Jenniffer B. Austria
ROBINSONS Hotels and Resorts (RHR), the hospitality arm of Robinsons Land Corp., has been named one of the “Best Companies to Work For in Southeast Asia” by Great Place To Work.
The recognition is based on a rigorous analysis of confidential employee feedback across the Southeast Asian region, cementing RHR’s commitment to exceptional employee experience under its “Hospitality by Heart” ethos.
The accolade places RHR among the region’s top companies for workplace excellence and culture.
“To be named one of the ‘Best Places
to Work in Southeast Asia’ is an immense honor and a powerful affirmation that our commitment to culture rivals the region’s top companies,” said Barun Jolly, senior vice president and business unit general manager of Robinsons Hotels and Resorts. Jolly said the success in the hospitality sector hinges on managing people and ensuring they feel valued, stating the award is a tribute to the team’s confidence in RHR’s values and culture.
Robinsons Hotels and Resorts is the largest and most diversified Filipino hospitality group in the Philippines, boasting the widest geographical presence in the
RHR
DA caps NCR pork prices for holidays
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) imposed maximum suggested retail prices (MSRPs) on pork sold in Metro Manila beginning Friday to curb price spikes ahead of the Christmas holiday season.
Under a new administrative circular, pork liempo (pork belly) is capped at P370 per kilogram, while kasim (shoulder) and pigue (ham/ leg) are limited to P330 per kg. across public and private wet markets in the National Capital Region.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the move seeks to temper retail prices that have surged in recent weeks despite lower farmgate rates.
“We have to restore some sanity in the retail price of pork, a favorite protein source among Filipinos that is in high demand especially during the Christmas season,” he said.
The DA’s Agribusiness Marketing and Assistance Service (AMAS) earlier reported liempo prices reaching up to P480 per kg. in early November.
Tiu Laurel noted that the price ceil-
ings were finalized after consultations with meat retailers and other industry players. He said farm-gate prices had dropped low enough to threaten the viability of small and medium hog raisers.
The DA previously agreed with hog producers to set a minimum farm-gate price of P210 per kg. to help stabilize grower margins.
Livestock Undersecretary Danta Palabrica recommended the new MSRPs, following a supply and demand assessment showing that local production remains sufficient for Metro Manila’s needs. The findings were validated during a Nov. 22 online meeting with industry stakeholders.
The Bantay Presyo Technical Committee, working with the livestock office and AMAS, developed the MSRPs based on historical liveweight, wholesale and retail price trends.
PH joins FHS World 2025 to woo hotel investors
THE Philippines made its foray into the global tourism investment scene, joining the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World 2025 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from Oct. 27 to 29, 2025.
The debut, led by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, aims to establish the country as a top destination in Asia for hotel and resort development.
The move is part of a broader strategy to place the Philippines on international platforms that attract indus-
try partners, according to TPB chief operating officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles.
“This debut shows that the Philippines is ready to compete for quality hospitality investments and TPB is committed to promoting the opportunities, destinations and developments that will shape the future of our tourism industry,” said Nograles. FHS World 2025 is a key gathering for hotel owners, operators, developers and investors, attracting delegates from more than 60 countries and over
DA unveils plan to hire 20,000 agriculturists to boost crop production
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is preparing for a massive hiring drive to fill thousands of positions in agriculture and animal science, LED by new and upcoming laws supporting increased food production.
DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the department expects to hire about 20,000 agriculturists once a measure is approved that returns agricultural extension workers to the DA. He said that each new worker
REDC inaugurates
P4-b Pulangi hydro plant in Bukidnon
REPOWER Energy Development Corp. (REDC) inaugurated its P4billion Pulangi Hydropower Plant in Bukidnon, marking its ninth operating hydropower facility and first in the southern island of Mindanao.
The 18.2-megawatt (MW) run-ofriver plant is projected to generate an average of 130 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean electricity annually.
The Department of Energy (DOE) said the Pulangi plant is among the first hydropower facilities eligible for the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) new feed-in tariff round 4 (FIT-4), which has a preliminary rate of P6.38/kilowatt-hour (kWh).
“The commissioning of the Pulangi Hydropower Plant underscores our commitment to creating reliable, sustainable and community-aligned energy projects,” said REDC president Eric Roxas.
“Hydropower continues to play a vital role in securing the country’s clean energy future and we are proud to help strengthen Mindanao’s renewable energy infrastructure,” said Roxas.
REDC, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Cabanglasan Hydropower Corporation, said the plant is located at the borders of the City of Valencia and San Fernando in Bukidnon.
Attendees at the inauguration included Roxas, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, Pure Energy chairman and CEO Dexter Tiu, PSALM president and CEO Dennis Dela Serna, Tokai president Mitsugu Hamazaki, DOE Renewable Energy Management Bureau (REMB) director Marissa Cerezo, REDC chief finance officer Rolando Domingo, REDC chief operating officer Johnson Sanhi Jr, REDC director Ryotaro Sumi, REDC director Charlie Sy, REDC technical consultant Harald Tomintz and NexGen director Mark Canete.
would monitor at least 25 hectares, which translates to assisting roughly 25 farmers.
The newly-enacted Animal Industry Development and Competitiveness Act will require more veterinarians and allied professionals to strengthen the country’s livestock systems.
To meet these projected manpower needs, Tiu Laurel has begun coordinating with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to reinstate agri-
culturist courses in state universities, reporting a “very positive” response.
The DA hopes to recruit many of the new passers from the latest Agriculture Licensure Examination, where 6,678 of 9,742 examinees passed, to join its expanding workforce and support agriculture modernization.
Tiu Laurel said rebuilding a nationwide corps of extension workers would significantly improve the DA’s capacity to gather timely accurate
650 companies this year. The Philippine delegation sought to highlight the country’s potential through key engagements, including a Destination Overview Session titled “Beyond Paradise: Discovering the Investment Potential of the Philippines.”
Discussions focused on new opportunities such as the rise of integrated leisure destinations, enhancements to regional airports and growing demand for sustainable and culturally anchored developments.
field data, which is crucial for crafting sound policy and responding quickly to the needs of farmers, fisherfolk, and other players in the value chain.
“With real-time data, we can act faster and measure the impact of our programs, from seeds and fertilizers to palay prices,” he said.
“All the information will flow straight to our command center for quick analysis and decisive action,” he said. Othel V. Campos
Opulence Prime Ventures brings South Korea’s Daily Beer to PH
OPULENCE Prime Ventures Inc. (OPV) has launched South Korea’s largest “chimaek” (chicken and draft beer chain) Daily Beer in the Philippines to capitalize on the country’s strong affinity for Korean lifestyle and its dynamic food and beverage scene.
The first Daily Beer branch, a 100-seater flagship, opened at Arcovia City on Nov. 30, 2025. This will be followed by a location at SM Fairview in December and Paseo Parkway, Salcedo in April 2026. Daily Beer operates 400 locations in South Korea and has a presence in Singapore and Thailand.
OPV chairman Kirkland Whang sees the Philippines as an ideal strategic market for the brand. “Here in the Philippines, we have local craft beers. But beer is just like coffee,” Whang said, explaining the unique Korean craft beer offerings.
“Coffee from different places tastes a different way. It’s the same thing with beer,” he said.
The Arcovia branch features a curated selection of Korean craft beers on tap and Daily Beer’s signature fried chicken, which includes the popular Angry Bird known for its balance of spice and flavor.
The chain seeks to offer a new dining and social experience centered on the popular beer and fried chicken combination.
OPV, which also introduced the premium
country in September, plans significant
franchise agreement with Daily Beer
Global Brands Fest and All-Out Pasko Sale, offering extensive deals and exclusive shopping experiences as the holiday season nears its peak. The platform’s 12.12 Global Brands Fest will run from Dec. 8 to 14, giving shoppers discounts of up to 80 percent and 100-percent free shipping on top brands.
The 12.12 All-Out Pasko Sale follows from Dec. 11 at 8 p.m. through Dec. 14, featuring discounts of up to 90 percent and up to P2,000 in Lazada vouchers.
Lazada is emphasizing smart shopping through personalized features with its artificial intelligence (AI) tool, Lazzie, alongside authentic products from thousands of global and local brands.
Categories include electronics, fashion, beauty, home, and essentials, featuring brands such as TORRAS tech accessories, Umay Sports, Naturehike Outdoor, and Philips Lighting. Shoppers can also find K-Beauty and makeup assortments from the GMarket Korea store.
Lazada Philippines chief executive Carlos Barrera said 12.12 is one of the biggest celebrations of the year.
“Beyond the deals, it’s a chance for us to help brands grow, offer better value to our customers, and make holiday shopping more seamless, convenient and enjoyable for every Filipino family,” Barrera said. Adding to the promotions is the 12.12 All-Out Shopping Treat Raffle, running from Dec. 1 to 14.
Shoppers receive one raffle entry for every single order of P500 or more, excluding Digital Goods and Milk Code products.
The grand prize is a 1-year shopping spree through LazRewards, credited at P100,000 monthly from January to December 2026, and 12 other winners will each receive P12,000 in Lazada Gift Cards.
“The holiday season is when Filipino shoppers are most excited to discover great deals and authentic products from the brands they love,” said Alvin Ching, Lazada Philippines head of seller operations.
“We work closely with our brand and seller partners to ensure that every 12.12 brings a wider assortment, better value, and an overall smoother shopping experience,” said Ching.
TOURISM FRONTLINERS. The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) lead the distribution of emergency cash transfer (ECT) assistance to 356 local tourism workers in
Bogo City, whose jobs and livelihoods were affected by the strong earthquake that struck Cebu province recently.
Repower Energy Development Corporation (REDC), through its wholly owned subsidiary Cabanglasan Hydropower Corporation, inaugurates the 18.2-megawatt Pulangi Hydropower Plant at the borders of the City of Valencia and San Fernando in Bukidnon province. Leading the inauguration are (from left) REDC chief finance officer Rolando Domingo, director Ryotaro Sumi, Tokai president Mitsugu Hamazaki, PSALM president and CEO Dennis Dela Serna, REDC president Eric Roxas, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, Pure Energy chairman and CEO Dexter Tiu, DOE REMB director Marissa Cerezo, REDC chief operating officer Johnson Sanhi Jr., REDC director Charlie Sy, REDC technical consultant Harald Tomintz and NexGen director Mark Canete.
Opulence Prime Ventures, led by chairman Kirkland Whang, brings South Korea’s largest ‘chimaek’ chain, Daily Beer, to the Philippines, opening its first branch at Arcovia City and planning 10 locations in three years.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025
extrastory2000@gmail.com
RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor
ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor
Cebu Pacific expands in-flight meal selection
CEBU Pacific has launched an expanded selection of buy-on-board menu items, enhancing the in-flight dining experience for passengers.
The low-cost carrier said that starting Dec. 1, 2025, travelers could choose from a wider range of drinks, snacks, breads and meals from the CEB Fun Café menu, available for purchase during the flight with no pre-order required.
The airline’s popular hot meals— Char Siu Chicken, Beef Adobo and Pinoy Spaghetti—which were previously available only through pre-order, can now be purchased on board on select flights.
These additions complement CEB’s existing hot meal lineup,
which includes Chicken Teriyaki, Chicken Green Curry, Vegetable Tom Yum with Rice and Quinoa and Penne Chicken Bolognese, it said.
The refreshed menu features three new beverages: Iced Black Coffee, Milk Tea with Jelly and Iced Hibiscus Lychee with Mango Popping Boba.
These drinks, which start at P80, are available across all domestic and international flights and are served cold and freshly prepared upon order. Passengers can also enjoy new snack and bread options. These include Nachos with Salsa Dip, Cheesy Garlic Brioche, Tuna Asado PullApart, and Pan de Macaroon, with prices starting at an affordable P120.
Filipinos warned of cybercrime surge
By Othel V. Campos
FORTIGUARD Labs on Friday warned the Philippines of a holiday-season cybercrime surge led by online shopping and electronic payments and projected that by 2027 cybercrime will reach nearindustrial scale, according to its 2026 Cyberthreat Predictions report.
The report noted a shift in attacker strategy from innovation to speed, with AI systems and semi-autonomous agents compressing the time between intrusion and impact from days to minutes.
“The findings clearly show that cybercrime is no longer an opportunistic activity; it is an industrialized system operating at machine speed,” said Jonas Walker, FortiGuard Labs director of threat intelligence APAC
JuanHand secures multi-million-peso credit facility with HSBC Philippines
WEFUND Lending Corp., operator of the JuanHand online lending application, has secured a multi-million peso credit facility with HSBC in the Philippines to expand financial access for underserved yet creditworthy Filipinos. It said it would deploy the proceeds to strengthen financial inclusion by providing immediate and sustainable access to financing for individuals with limited or no credit history. The collaboration represents a significant milestone in bridging traditional banking and fintech, demonstrating how collaboration between established financial institutions and agile digital lenders can create scalable and sustainable solutions for inclusive economic growth.
WeFund has disbursed over P85 billion in loans to more than 20 million registered users. Recognized as
one of the Philippines’ leading fintech cash lending apps, JuanHand provides fast and reliable access to funds, approving and disbursing loans in under 5 minutes.
The company maintains a strong focus on fair interest rates, regulatory compliance, and customer-centric service.
WeFund Lending Corp. and JuanHand president and chief executive Francisco Mauricio said the facility would extend the company’s reach.
“This credit facility will enable us to extend our reach and impact, ensuring that millions of Filipinos, particularly those historically underserved, can gain access to responsible credit.
Empowering individuals through financial inclusion is at the core of what we do, and this collaboration marks a meaningful step toward that goal,” Mauricio said.
and Middle East.
AI is predicted to handle reconnaissance, intrusion, data parsing and ransom negotiations, enabling cybercriminal groups to run multiple campaigns simultaneously.
Fortinet Philippines country manager Bambi Escalante said the extended holiday season, beginning each September, contributes to a surge in cyberattacks.
Escalante urged organizations and consumers to stay informed and vigilant about their shopping and spending habits to avoid falling victim to scams.
“For businesses and organizations
here in the Philippines, the realities of cyber crises are not just one big crisis that once they happen, it’s done. On the contrary, cyber risk is constant,” Escalante said.
By 2027, FortiGuard Labs expects agentic, swarm-like AI models to coordinate attacks and adapt to defenses, alongside more sophisticated supply-chain attacks on AI and embedded systems.
The underground economy is also expected to become more structured, with tailored botnet rentals, credential markets and automated escrow systems resembling legitimate marketplaces.
GCash, Queen Bee Capital vow to simplify remittances for Filipinos in Japan
Paul Albano.
PHILGUARANTEE, teams up with DCFC
STATE-OWNED Philippine Guarantee Corp. (PHILGUARANTEE) has teamed up with Discovery Capital Finance Corp. (DCFC), one of the fastest-growing financing institutions in the Philippines, to expand credit access for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the country. The strategic alliance leverages PHILGUARANTEE’s role as the principal agency for state guarantee finance. By providing credit guarantees on loans extended by DCFC, PHILGUARANTEE shares in the credit risk associated with lending to the crucial SME sector, widely recognized as the backbone of the Philippine economy. “This is a transformational partnership for us and, more importantly, for Filipino entrepreneurs,” said DCFC president and chief executive Diosdado Salang Jr. “The guarantee from PHILGUARANTEE covers a portion of the outstanding principal,
By Darwin G. Amojelar
This can be done using their Japanese (+81) or Philippine mobile numbers.
Queen Bee Capital Co. Ltd. (QBC) is a Japanese financial services company that operates the PayForex platform, which has been in service since 2011. Many Filipinos in Japan already have their Japanese bank accounts linked to PayForex.
GCASH, the Philippines’ leading e-wallet, has teamed up with Japan’s Queen Bee Capital (QBC) to simplify cross-border transactions for Filipinos working in Japan, eliminating the need for physical remittance centers. The collaboration integrates GCash into QBC’s PayForex platform, enabling Filipinos in Japan to seamlessly remit funds directly to their families’ GCash accounts in the Philippines or cash in to their own GCash wallets.
Customers can also choose to pay conveniently at convenience stores.
The funds transferred are instantly available for use by recipients in the Philippines at over 5.2 million QR merchant partners, 520 GLife partner merchants and 339,000 cash-in and cash-out (CICO) outlets nationwide.
“At GCash, we prioritize financial inclusion for all Filipinos, whether in the Philippines or abroad,” said GCash International general manager
“Our partnership with QueenBee Capital empowers OFWs in Japan to send secure and fast remittances to their loved ones. Their families can seamlessly use the funds for daily needs, investments, insurance, bills, and more—all within the GCash app,” he said.
GCash continues to expand its global partnerships to ensure access to fast, secure, and seamless financial services for Filipinos worldwide.
Business group, DOE sign 3-year joint action agenda to boost energy security
THE Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) and the Department of Energy (DOE) signed a three-year Joint Energy Action Agenda (JEAA) for 2026–2028, committing private sector expertise to accelerate the implementation of the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) 2023–2050 and enhance national energy security.
The agreement establishes a strengthened public-private partnership (PPP) aimed at ensuring reliable, sustainable and affordable electricity access for all Filipino communities, particularly in off-grid and underserved areas.
The milestone signing took place on Dec. 1, 2025, during the second MAP Energy CEO Forum in Makati
City. The JEAA, developed by the MAP Energy Committee following a fourpart roundtable series in September 2025, provides a strategic roadmap focused on four key pillars. The first pillar involves delivering the PEP energy mix which focuses on balancing affordability, reliability and sustainability by closing urgent supply gaps. Key initiatives include reviewing PEP assumptions, expediting approvals via the Energy Virtual One Stop Shop (EVOSS), exploring waste-toenergy opportunities in urban areas, identifying lower-cost options for off-grid communities and advancing natural gas competitiveness and accessibility. Othel V. Campos
MICHELIN BIB GOURMAND. Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco (right) congratulates
Mortera,
the restaurant’s well-loved specialties, which include dinakdakan, dinuguan, pork barbecue and papaitan.
THE way we live has changed. Our “office” can be a coffee shop, our “classroom” can be a park bench, and our “metime” often starts with a screen and a playlist.
The Infinix XPAD 20 Pro was made for exactly that kind of life, fastpaced, flexible, and full of moments that matter. By bundling the essential accessories (the XPAD Pro Keyboard and the X Pencil 20 Pro) right in the box, Infinix delivers a complete 2-in1 experience that is ready for anything right out of the box, whether you’re working on a project, taking notes in class, or sketching your next big idea. The first thing that grabs your attention is the display. Stepping up to a massive 12-inch 2K (2000x1200) resolution IPS LCD is a game-changer. This isn’t just a bump in size; it’s a significant upgrade in viewing comfort and immersion. The 90Hz high refresh rate ensures that everything, from scrolling through spreadsheets to watching your favorite streaming service, looks sharp and fluid. For those long nights of studying or binge-watching, the display features TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light and Flicker Free certifications. This commitment to eye comfort means you can push through that final project or one more episode without the usual strain. Wrapped in a slim 6.58mm all-metal unibody, the tablet feels light yet luxe, the kind of gadget that actually turns heads when you pull it out.
Underneath the hood, the XPAD 20 Pro is powered by the MediaTek Helio G100 Ultimate processor, built on an efficient 6nm process. Paired with up to 8GB of physical RAM (expandable with virtual memory), this chipset provides reliable, sustained performance for daily multitasking. You can effortlessly handle splitscreen productivity, taking notes on one side while streaming a lecture on the other with minimal fuss. Where this tablet truly distinguishes itself is in its software ecosystem. The upgraded Infinix AI platform and the Folax voice
A HOLIDAY GIFT THAT DELIVERS
The quad-speaker setup with DTS audio completes the package, providing immersive sound whether you’re joining a virtual meeting or simply unwinding with a movie.
The Infinix XPAD 20 Pro succeeds because it doesn’t just offer features, it offers a solution. It’s a versatile platform that seamlessly integrates learning, entertainment, and creativity at a compelling price. The
Infinix XPAD 20 Pro for the hybrid hustler
assistant integrate tools like AI Image Generation and AI Writing, turning the device into a smarter workhorse. Students, in particular, will appreciate the problem-solving function via camera input and the Hi-Translation feature for seamless collaboration across languages. The inclusion of the Infinix Learning
LG to showcase ‘Innovation in Tune With You’ at CES 2026
LG Electronics (LG) invites global audiences to join the LG World Premiere press conference on January 5 at 08:00 (PST) at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Under the banner of its CES 2026 theme, “Innovation in Tune With You,” LG will share its vision for elevating daily life through Affectionate Intelligence – delivering harmonized and seamlessly connected customer experiences. With global media in attendance, LG will unveil a portfolio of AIpowered solutions that combine world-class devices and solutions with advanced AI core technologies. LG is evolving its products into intelligent solutions designed to expand meaningful connectivity between devices, people and spaces. This evolution extends from the home to mobility and urban environments, enabling a more seamless and elevated life journey.
The groundbreaking products revealed and demonstrated during LG World Premiere will be on show throughout CES 2026 at LG’s booth. Along with the latest products and solutions from LG, visitors will be able to explore and enjoy a variety of unique, AI-fueled innovation experiences and immersive, interactive installations aligned with the company’s customer-centered vision and exhibition theme. LG World Premiere will be livestreamed on the LG website, LG Global YouTube channel and LG Global X channel.
TECHLIFE Philippines is ringing in the holiday season by taking the guesswork out of gifting. To make the season more meaningful, the brand is rolling out exclusive 12.12 deals on a selection of its fanfavorite devices. To give fans a variety of thoughtful and budget-friendly options, TechLife has curated offers featuring essential tools for productivity, learning, fitness, and entertainment.
All-New TechLife Pad Pro 12”: The Ultimate Smart Gift The all-new TechLife Pad Pro 12” is shaping up to be the ultimate holiday gift,
Center also makes it a valuable digital tool for younger learners, ensuring screen time is productive time. For the user whose “office” truly can be anywhere, the XPAD 20 Pro’s connectivity is crucial. Dual connectivity with Wi-Fi and 4G LTE means you can stay connected and productive even when a secure
GLOBE is decisively elevating the home internet experience with the launch of the GFiber Postpaid Plan powered by the ultimate trifecta of connectivity technology: Fiber-To-TheRoom (FTTR), WiFi 7, and XGSPON.
This breakthrough combination is a Philippine first, engineered to deliver the full, blazing-fast speed of your fiber plan, up to 2.5Gbps, directly and reliably to every single room in the house.
This groundbreaking solution directly addresses the most common frustration among broadband users: paying for high-speed internet but suffering from weak signals, buffering, and frustrating “dead spots” in areas far from the main router.
The Unmatched Advantage:
A Future-Ready Connectivity Trifecta
While competitors may offer one or two of these technologies, Globe AT HOME is the first to merge all three for a truly seamless, next-generation home connectivity:
XGS-PON (10-Gigabit Symmetrical Passive Optical Network): This is the network backbone, providing the essential 10Gbps capacity that makes multi-gigabit speeds like 2.5Gbps possible for the home. It is the core upgrade that future-proofs the entire network.
Fiber-To-The-Room (FTTR): Unlike traditional mesh systems that lose speed with every wireless hop, FTTR uses dedicated, discreet fiber links to extend connectivity deeper into the home. It turns every fiber node into
calls feel immersive. Designed as a productivity hub, it supports multitasking with PC Mode and split-screen functionality, while wireless screen casting allows for quick content sharing. Priced at P13,999, the TechLife Pad Pro 12” becomes an even better deal this season: every purchase comes with
generous display, respectable performance, and, most importantly, the inclusion of the keyboard and stylus make the Pro model a genuine 2-in-1 competitor in the affordable segment. If you’re a student, a professional who values portability, or a family looking for a feature-packed device that serves multiple needs, the Infinix XPAD 20 Pro is an investment that makes smart sense.
The Infinix XPAD 20 Pro arrives as a complete productivity package, shipping with both a detachable keyboard and a stylus pencil making it ready for work, school, or entertainment right out of the box.
network is out of reach. Fuelling this all-day hustle is a robust 8,000mAh battery. While the 18W fast charging won’t break any speed records, it’s sufficient for quick top-ups and ensures the tablet can keep pace with a full day of mixed usage, from early morning meetings to late-night entertainment.
a high-speed zone, guaranteeing low-latency, 2.5Gbps performance whether you’re on the ground floor, the attic, or the basement.
WiFi 7 (802.11be - Extremely High
Throughput): This is the final layer of speed and efficiency within the room. WiFi 7 enables unprecedented throughput, lower latency, and superior reliability for all your latest devices, handling multiple 4K/8K streams and complex AI applications simultaneously.
The tablet comes in two configurations: the 8GB + 256GB model, originally priced at P12,999, is now available at a promo price of P11,999, while the 4GB + 128GB variant drops from P10,999 to P9,999. You can grab the XPAD 20 Pro online, available only through Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.
Built for the Ultimate Digital Lifestyle
The GFiber Plans powered by this advanced trifecta support the most demanding digital lifestyles the modern Filipino home requires:
Seamless Ultra-HD Entertainment: Stream multiple 4K and 8K content sessions, dominate competitive online gaming, and explore bandwidth-heavy VR/AR worlds, all at once, with guaranteed zero lag.
Pro-Grade Work & Learning: Ensure crystal-clear, uninterrupted video calls, rapid massive file uploads, and continuous online classes from any corner of the house.
AI-Powered Home: Provides the robust, stable, multi-gigabit bandwidth needed to run a vast array of smart devices, CCTV, doorbells, and sensors simultaneously, securing the foundation for the AI-powered home ecosystem.
“Globe is committed to setting the standard for home connectivity in the Philippines,” said Carl Cruz, President and CEO at Globe. “Fast and reliable connectivity is no longer optional— it’s essential to how Filipinos live, learn, and earn. While competitors are on different parts of the connectivity curve, Globe AT HOME is the only one in the Philippines combining the XGSPON backbone, FTTR distribution, and WiFi 7 delivery to offer a truly end-to-end multi-gigabit experience. This breakthrough innovation eliminates the frustration of dead spots and guarantees that the full 2.5Gbps speed is available everywhere, transforming the way Filipino families experience everyday life.”
The Infinix XPAD 20 Pro is made for this kind of life -- fast-paced, flexible, and full of moments that matter.
Hotelogix sets standard in hospitality tech with BIR-Certified Cloud PMS
SINGAPORE/PHILIPPINES — Hotelogix, a globally leading provider of cloud-based hospitality technology solutions, has secured its certification from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), marking a major step forward in supporting hotels in the Philippines with fully compliant, digital tax processes.
This certification positions Hotelogix among the select cloud-based Property Management System (PMS) providers authorized to meet the country’s rigorous fiscal standards.
The certification enables Hotelogix to help hotels streamline their tax documentation, minimize administrative burden, and stay aligned with mandatory government reporting requirements.
The BIR, an agency under the Department of Finance, oversees the assessment and collection of internal revenue taxes, fees, and charges. It mandates that hotels and other businesses issue BIR-compliant official receipts, maintain accurate books of accounts, and file timely and transparent tax reports. Over the past few years, the agency has accelerated its digital transformation thrust—requiring hotels of all sizes to adopt certified systems that promote traceability, real-time reporting, and improved governance.
“Securing BIR certification is a strategic milestone in our commitment to Philippine hotels,” said Aditya Sanghi, CEO of Hotelogix. “Hotels can now rely on the same system they use for daily operations to also support their tax compliance requirements. Our goal is to give hoteliers the confidence to grow, knowing that governance, compliance, and guest service are all supported by one modern, secure, and future-ready platform.” Hotelogix is one of the most widely used cloud PMS providers in the Philippines, with more than 10,000 active users and over 15,000 keys under management. Several fast-growing hotel groups—including Global Officium Limited Inc. (GOLI), Enable Hospitality, Araw Hospitality Group, Astoria Hotels and Resorts, Azalea Hotels and Residences, and The Henry Hotels—use Hotelogix to power their operations.
With its BIR certification, hotels using Hotelogix can now issue BIR-compliant tax documents and prepare accurate financial statements and tax filings in accordance with the agency’s requirements. The certification strengthens Hotelogix’s leadership in the Philippine hospitality market and supports the industry’s broader move toward digital transformation and regulatory modernization.
PARIS—A brief conversation with a partisan AI chatbot can influence voters’ political views, studies published Thursday found, with evidencebacked arguments— true or not—proving particularly persuasive.
Experiments with generative artificial intelligence models, such as OpenAI’s GPT-4o and Chinese alternative DeepSeek, found they were able to shift supporters of Republican Donald Trump towards his Democratic opponent Kamala Harris by almost four points on a 100-point scale ahead of the 2024 US presidential election.
Opposition supporters in 2025 polls in Canada and Poland meanwhile had their views shifted by up to 10 points after chatting with a bot programmed to persuade.
Those effects are enough to sway a significant proportion of voting decisions, said Cornell University professor David Rand, a senior author of the papers in journals Science and Nature.
“When we asked how people would vote if the election were held that day... roughly one in 10 respondents in Canada and Poland switched,” he told AFP by email.
“About one in 25 in the US did the same,” he added, while noting that “voting intentions aren’t the same as actual votes” at the ballot box.
However, follow-ups with participants found that around half the persuasive effect remained after one month in Britain, while one-third remained in the United States, Rand said.
“In social science, any evidence of effects persisting a month later is comparatively rare,” he pointed out.
Studies: AI chatbots can influence voters
The studies found that the most common tactic used by chatbots to persuade was “being polite and providing evidence”, and that bots instructed not to use facts were far less persuasive.
Such results “go against the dominant narrative in political psychology, which holds that ‘motivated reasoning’ makes people ignore facts that conflict with their identities or partisan commitments”, Rand said.
But the facts and evidence cited by the chatbots were not necessarily truthful.
While most of their fact-checked claims were accurate, “AIs advocating for right-leaning candidates made more inaccurate claims”, Rand said.
This was “likely because the models mirror patterns in their training data, and numerous studies have found that right-leaning content on the internet tends to be more inaccurate”, he added.
The authors recruited thousands of participants for the experiments on online gig-work platforms and warned them in advance that they would be speaking with AI. Rand said that further work could investigate the “upper limit” of just how far AI can change people’s minds -- and how newer models released since the fieldwork, such as GPT-5 or Google’s Gemini 3, would perform. AFP
STILL completing your Christmas list? Fill your carts to the brim during OPPO’s 12.12 Sale, its Biggest Year-End Sale to date. Until December 14, enjoy a merry holiday shopping with exclusive OPPO All-Day vouchers on OPPO’s newest and best-selling smartphones and devices for maximum savings.
A-FLOW, a joint venture between
AyalaLand Logistics Holdings Corp.
(“ALLHC”) and FLOW Digital Infrastructure (“FLOW”), officially launched its first data center “ML1” in the Philippines, marking a significant milestone in the country’s digital infrastructure landscape.
Strategically located in Laguna, approximately 35km south of Metro Manila, ML1 offers an extension to the growing data center cluster, catering to the increasing demand for secure, scalable and resilient digital infrastructure in the era of cloud and AI adoption.
ML1 is the first of a planned threebuilding greenfield data center campus with a total capacity of 36MW, with the first phase featuring a 6MW IT load.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, A-FLOW President Sanjay Goel said: “The launch of ML1 demonstrates our commitment to supporting digital transformation in the Philippines, establishing it as a hub that enhances the connectivity and management of data across Southeast Asia and beyond. Data
Centers like ML1 are catalysts for digital innovation across businesses, giving the Philippines a competitive advantage on the global stage.” He also highlighted the strength of the A-FLOW partnership, noting that collaboration with key partners and experts across design, architecture, project management and engineering has been essential to
ML1’s development. “The tremendous effort and teamwork involved are the true foundation of today’s achievements,” Mr. Goel added.
ML1 stands out for its strategic location in Laguna, an emerging data center cluster with low risk of geological hazards and flooding.
Designed with flexibility in mind, the facility is scalable and custom-
izable to meet diverse customer requirements, from colocation and enterprise users to cloud service providers. As a carrier-neutral data center, ML1 ensures robust connectivity through multiple Points-of-Entry (PoE) that provide route redundancies and enhance network resilience. Its infrastructure is built to international design standards, delivering missioncritical reliability and operational excellence with multiple layers of security.
A Transformative Moment for Biñan City
Biñan City Mayor Angelo Alonte commented on the significance of the facility: “Today marks a transformative moment for Biñan City. The launch of the first AFLOW Data Center is more than the unveiling of a state-of-the-art facility, it signals a new era for digital innovation and economic growth in the Philippines.” He added, “Their confidence in our city reflects the strength of our communities, our workforce, and our vision for a future-ready Biñan.”
The logo of DeepSeek, a Chinese arti cial intelligence company which develops open-source large language models, and the logo of OpenAI’s arti cial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT AFP
Being polite, giving proof
The BIR certi cation positions Hotelogix as one of the few cloud PMS providers authorized to support real-time, compliant tax processes for Philippine hotels.
A-FLOW ML1 Data Center facade
SHOWBIZ
Very Wang Nickie Wang
CELEBRITY couple Jessy Mendiola and Luis Manzano described 2025 as a year of personal growth and self-discovery. Also, closing the year, the couple emphasized gratitude for lessons learned and second chances.
VILLANUEVA,
Jessy Mendiola, Luis Manzano
close 2025 with lessons learned and hopes for 2026
Earlier this year, Luis ran for vice governor in his hometown of Batangas but lost to the outgoing governor. And at a thanksgiving gathering with showbiz press, the actor and television host shared he has no plans to pursue another government post.
“Honestly, I don’t think about it. My main focus is returning to hosting and taking care of my family. I can help in different ways in Batangas, but if we talk about running again, I don’t think about it anymore,” the 44-year-old Luis explained.
He described the experience as a redirection rather than a failure.
“After everything we went through, chances are it will still go on. For me, I found my niche again. After the campaign, I found a connection. For a while, I felt lost even though there were other projects. Some brands didn’t reach out, which is perfectly understandable,” he added.
Luis noted that things “fell into place” after the elections, realizing he did not want to waste a second chance in the entertainment industry.
“Not everyone is given a second chance to return to the industry. In fact, in two days, I’ll be shooting with a new family. I have three renewals of endorsements,” he noted.
Speaking with Manila Standard Entertainment , the couple discussed the challenges of 2025 and their hopes for 2026. Both noted that the year provided clarity on priorities and strengthened their relationship.
Jessy described 2025 as “very challenging” but also a period of growth.
“We’ve grown so much since January. I thought we were okay, but there’s always room for growth. This year really taught us a lot. Mas nahanap namin, mas nakilala namin ang isa’t isa, pati na rin ang sarili namin ,” she shared and added that she hopes 2026 brings “peace and lightness,” while continuing opportunities for growth.
Luis framed 2026 as a year of resurgence after a challenging 2025.
“Kaya, this 2026, laban talaga. Dumaan ako sa phase na feeling ko nawala ako, na parang nalost ako. Pero ngayon,
voice heard.”
Forteza addressed the children during a child-led engagement, urging adults and institutions to consider their concerns.
“All our voices matter, all are important. You are our future leaders, so your voices definitely matter,” she said. “All your concerns should be heard, respected, and acted upon because our future depends on you.”
The program featured a Speakers’ Bureau session led by Mike Rivera, creative consultant of GMA’s Entertainment Group, and Kapuso reporter Mariz Umali. The session introduced children to effective communication, safe self-expression, and storytelling to support their rights under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The day concluded with a guided tour of GMA’s newsroom, studios, and broadcast facilities, giving
nakikita ko ulit kung sino ako , and I’m finding that love again within myself. And that’s a blessing,” he added.
As the year ends, the couple revealed personal wishes. Jessy, who celebrated her birthday on Dec. 3, expressed gratitude for her achievements in 2025.
“More positivity. Kahit challenging yung simula ng taon, I want to feel na matatapos siya nang maganda . And so far, so good,” she mentioned. She also wished for peace amid local and global challenges, particularly for those affected by calamities. Jessy also talked about her showbiz comeback through Sins of the Father “I’m grateful to ABS-CBN also, akalain niyo nakabalik pa ako, ’di ba ? After 6 long years, aakting ulit ang Jessy Mendiola. Napatunayan ko rin sa sarili ko, nakapagtapos ako ng isang show,” she noted.
Luis teased multiple projects for 2026, including the return of his daily game show Rainbow Rumble and another game show. “ Yung next year, ang tinatry gawin, two to three shows ,” he shared.
Karina Bautista, Aljon Mendoza reunite in ‘The Last Resort’ GMA
FORMER Pinoy Big Brother: Otso housemates Karina Bautista and Aljon Mendoza reunite in the upcoming iWant original movie
The Last Resort, premiering Dec. 8 exclusively on the streaming platform.
The film, set at the tranquil La Mera Resort, follows a series of suspicious deaths of married male guests, which management repeatedly attributes to accidents.
Bautista plays Katrina, a housekeeper with hidden motives, while Mendoza stars as Jacob, a visitor whose arrival coincides with the surge in mysterious incidents.
The cast also includes Pinoy Big
Brother: Gen 11 alum Patrick Ramirez, Elyson De Dios, Rania Lindayag, Paulo Angeles, John Arcenas, Randy Villarama, Emma Viri, and Brian Scott Lomboy The movie departs from the typical romantic image associated with the “KarJon” pairing, giving the actors an opportunity to explore more complex roles.
Directed by Christian Paolo Lat, The Last Resort combines psychological tension with immersive storytelling, exploring themes of vengeance, suspicion, trauma, and the hidden lives of seemingly ordinary people.
GMA Network and Save the Children Philippines renewed
Children from partner communities visit the GMA Network Center as part of the renewed partnership with Save the Children Philippines
Karina Bautista (left) and Aljon Mendoza reunite onscreen as Katrina and Jacob in ‘The Last Resort’
Save the Children ambassador Barbie Forteza engages with children during a learning session that highlights safe self-expression and children’s rights
Jessy Mendiola (left) and Luis Manzano look back on a challenging but growth-filled 2025
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE
WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER
VALDEZ, Writer
IN SIARGAO, the magic lives in the perfect Cloud 9 barrels, the whispering palm forests, and the pulse of its people. It grows from big, bold ideas shaped by a simple love for the island. It thrives in the spirit of bayanihan (community unity) that turns dreams into reality.
From this vibrant soil, a new seed has sprouted: Ubani Siargao, the passion project of island resident Charmaine Tanteras . Ubani represents the Siargao spirit of starting with an idea, adding heart, and building something beautiful with the community.
Tanteras, like so many who are called to Siargao, saw more than a paradise; she saw a home with untapped potential and a community rich with talent. Ubani began not in a boardroom but in the quiet moments after a surf, during conversations with local artisans, and with the realization that the island’s soul could be expressed through something tangible.
“Ubani started when I kept posting about my life in Siargao. And tourists have been inquiring about it until I became a ‘concierge’ of their needs. So Ubani initially doesn’t have packages because our foundation was service-based on ‘requests.’ Siargao has so much more to offer than the usual tourist spots,” Tanteras shared.
“I wanted to create experiences that were personal, meaningful, and away from the crowds. Most tours on the island felt generic, so I focused on curated moments like romantic beach dinners, underrated island hopping, and intimate retreats that help people see the real Siargao. Ubani fills the gap between mainstream tourism and deeper, more authentic experiences,” she added.
Ubani’s approach to tourism is built on a foundation of deep respect for Siargao— designing experiences that bypass overcrowded spots, partnering directly with local communities, and maintaining a strict low-impact policy, including a ban on singleuse plastics and a commitment to local suppliers. For them, sustainability is not a marketing trend but a genuine commitment to protecting the island they call home.
“Ubani works closely with local guides, boatmen, cooks, farmers, and artisans. Many of our retreats highlight Filipino culture, like weaving, pottery, and farm visits, which directly support local livelihoods. We also prioritize hiring locals and collaborating with small
C4 LIFE
Dee-tails
Ardee de los Angeles
Weaving a new story with an island heart
community businesses. Our goal is for tourism to uplift the community, not overwhelm it,” Tanteras adds.
Siargao has become a haven for digital nomads seeking reliable connectivity, comfort, and community. Ubani supports this with fast Wi-Fi, quiet workspaces, and access to island activities, workshops, and wellness events. The setup helps remote professionals find balance, build routine, and connect with a like-minded tribe in the rhythm of Siargao life.
“People choose Ubani because we focus on personalized and crowd-free experiences. We’re known for our intimate setups, rare island routes, and retreats that highlight culture, wellness, and connection. Everything we offer is curated and intentional. We don’t try to be the biggest; we just aim to be the most meaningful and unforgettable,” Tanteras continues.
For Tanteras, the greatest reward comes from real moments of connection—whether it’s a couple getting engaged during a curated experience or a solo traveler finding clarity and community. The journey
Ubani prepares an intimate beachfront dinner, one of its signature curated experiences crafted for meaningful island moments
Daily data offers give users more flexibility this holiday
SMART Prepaid introduced a new lineup of mobile data offers designed to give subscribers more control over their connectivity needs during the holiday season. The offering, called Daily Data, allows users to choose between 500 MB and 3 GB of open-access data per day, along with validity options of 3, 7, 14, or 28 days. Each Daily Data package includes allocations for texts and calls. Smart said the product is aimed at subscribers whose plans shift quickly during the holidays, from sudden night-outs with friends to unplanned family trips or bingewatching sessions.
Daily Data offers are available through the Smart App, the Smart Online Store, and accredited retailers, e-wallets, and convenience stores nationwide.
Subscribers who purchase Daily Data offers priced at P99 and above qualify for raffle entries in Smart Holideals, the company’s Christmas raffle promo running from Oct. 17 to Dec. 31. The promo features weekly draws where users can win P30,000.
Smart Holideals will conclude on Jan. 6, when three subscribers will have a chance to win P1 million, P3 million, or P5 million. To join, customers may text RAFFLE to 5858.
Smart is also encouraging users to post their holiday activities on TikTok using the hashtag #FlexYourDay, highlighting moments from parties, travel, video calls, or streaming More details on Daily Data offers are available on the Smart App and the Smart Online Store.
has brought challenges, especially with the fast changes in
each
pushed
and new ideas. This is Tanteras’s story and an invitation— to see a homegrown brand grow, to appreciate the artistry in every woven thread, and to join a community that lifts its own.
Enchanted Kingdom kicks off holiday season with family-focused festivities
THE country’s lone world-class theme park opened its holiday season with a campaign centered on family traditions as it marked its 30th year.
The park launched its Enchanting Season of Family campaign in December, highlighting families as the core of Filipino Christmas celebrations. Alongside more than 30 rides and attractions, the monthlong program features new seasonal shows, festive installations, and nightly spectacles. A pre-Christmas event on Nov. 29 set the tone for the season with carol performances by guests and a choir. Santa
Rosa City Vice Mayor Arnold B. Arcillas attended the event and urged visitors to embrace hope and joy during the holidays. Visitors joined a “Caroloke Christmas Caravan,” a holiday truck brought in by Coca-Cola at the Spaceport Grounds, where they sang carols, joined activities, and received prizes. Characters from the EK Storyverse greeted guests at Eldar’s Theater before the annual lighting of the 22foot Grand Parol. Another 100 parols were illuminated at AGILA The EKsperience: Saribuhay.
The park also unveiled Eldar’s Evergreen Topiary, a new greenery
The night ends with the Forever Enchanted Fireworks Show, celebrating EK’s 30th anniversary
installation modeled after its resident wizard character. The display will remain year-round as part of efforts to introduce sustainable attractions. The night ended with the Forever Enchanted Fireworks Show, synchronized
Smart Prepaid rolls out its new Daily Data offers with Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano encouraging users to #FlexYourDay this holiday season
Enchanted Kingdom opens its Enchanting Season of Family with carol performances and festive lights at Brooklyn Place
Charmaine Tanteras is the visionary founder behind Ubani Siargao
Hiking the pristine trails of Corregidor Island
Ubani guests enjoy a curated, crowd-free island feast that showcases Siargao’s local flavors and community-driven hospitality
Siargao’s tourism scene, but
one has
growth