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Cabral found dead in Benguet PNP: Not ruling out any factor; DILG, DOJ: Flood control probe to continue By Dexter See, Vince Lopez, Pot Chavez, Ram Superable, Maricel Cruz and Charles Dantes

ORMER Public Works Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral was found dead on the bank of Bued River along Kennon Road in Tuba, Benguet Thursday evening.

Cabral, who was implicated in the flood control mess, was initially found unconscious at around 8 p.m. after allegedly falling into a ravine, the Tuba Municipal Police Station said. Acting Justice Secretary Frederic Vida said the case can be considered "death under suspicious circumstances" even as the listed official cause was accidental falling. He said there must be a mandatory autopsy in such cases. Cabral, who served as Undersecretary for Planning, was identified as one of the alleged masterminds of the flood control scheme, along with former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Cabral held a central role in approving projects and determining fund allocations. "The family has positively identified her, but we cannot rely on that alone. Baka may budol play. Baka ibang katawan ang ginamit (This might be a ploy. They might have

used a different body),” he said. For his part, PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Nartatez Jr. said they are not yet ruling out any factor in the probe.

VOL. XXXIX • NO. 308 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 • SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025 •

Arrest warrant vs. Sarah Discaya finally served By Pot Chavez

DEATH SPOT. A yellow police line tape, left marks the spot where former DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral was

spotted last by her driver yesterday along Kennon Road. At right, authorities check out the body of the former official who was found on the bank of the Bued River. PNP

STARS PARADE. Members of the cast and crew of the eight official Metro Manila Film Festival MMFF entries Bar Boys After School, Call Me Mother, I’m Perfect, Love You So Bad, Manila’s Finest, Rekonek, Shake Rattle and Roll Evil Origins, and UnMarry join the Parade of Stars yesterday which wound its way to Makati City. Norman Cruz

THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has served two warrants of arrest on controversial contractor Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya, even as authorities try to round up other respondents in cases related to massive corruption in the government’s flood control program. Discaya, along with several others, faces separate charges for alleged malversation through falsification as well as violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act linked to a P96.5 Next page

NO PHOTOS. Sarah Discaya

shields her face with a towel upon arrival yesterday at the Department of Justice (DOJ) in Padre Faura, Manila, for the preliminary investigation on the P7.1-billion tax evasion case filed against them by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). Norman Cruz

Groups call for tougher penalties on fake meds THE pharmaceutical industry, intellectual property rights advocates, and business groups are calling for steeper sanctions and the criminalization of medicine counterfeiting, which they have referred to as a “sophisticated and entrenched threat in the Philippines.” In a dialogue hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce of the Next page

PBBM to review budget during the X’mas holidays By Charles Dantes MALACANANG said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will work during the holidays if needed to thoroughly review the proposed 2026 national bud-

get, even as lawmakers finalize the measure on a compressed timetable days before year-end. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President had expected the enrolled bill to be submitted earlier, but remained determined to study the budget measure closely prior to signing it before

Dec.31, provided it aligns with administration priorities. “The President will make sure the enrolled bill is carefully studied, closely monitored and thoroughly scrutinized,” Castro said during a Palace briefing. "What is important is that the provisions are consistent with the administration’s Next page

ICC Prosecution says Duterte feigning sickness to delay trial THE prosecution at the International Criminal Court (ICC) has called for the resumption of proceedings on the confirmation of charges against former President Rodrigo Duterte, saying the defendant was “feigning cognitive impairments in an attempt to avoid trial”

for alleged crimes against humanity in his bloody but failed drug war. The prosecution, in a nine-page motion submitted to the Pre-Trial Chamber I on Thursday, cited medical evaluations that found Duterte fit to stand trial. Next page

Speed skating, beach Oil price rollback volleyball shine as on X’mas week SEA Games near end By Alena Mae S. Flores By Riera U. Mallari

GLORY DAYS. Speed skater Peter Groseclose, left, shakes off back-toback races to capture gold in the men's 500m short-track event. At left, Sunny Villapando and Dij Rodriguez flex their fists after they teamed up with Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons to win the country’s first beach volleyball gold. POC

THAILAND—Team Philippines mounted a fierce last-ditch push in the penultimate day of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, piling up crucial gold medals in a futile effort to rise from sixth place in the medal standings, even as its traditionally dominant boxing team endured a bruising day marked by questionable calls favoring Thai fighters in the finals. The Filipinos’ gold rush was headlined by a historic breakthrough in beach volleyball, where Alas Pilipinas Women finally toppled eight-time champion Thailand on home sand in Pattaya. Next page

THE country’s oil firms are expected to rollback pump prices by over P1 per liter next week to reflect the movement of prices in the world oil market Diesel is expected to have a price rollback of P1 to P1.20 per liter and diesel by P0.60 to P0.80 per liter. “Oversupply concerns have caused oil prices to decline as the prospect of Russia-Ukraine ceasefire could lead Next page

NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Cabral... From A1

“I have already ordered a thorough investigation into this incident for us to have a clear picture of what happened. While there was already an initial impression regarding what happened, we should not rule out any factor until our forensic investigators are able to establish the cause of death and the circumstances surrounding it,” Nartatez said. Cabral's driver, Ricardio Hernandez, 56, said they were traveling toward the lowlands when she asked him to stop the vehicle along Kennon Road and to leave her there. Hernandez said when returned to the area, Cabral was no longer there. He went back to the hotel in Baguio City where Cabral had been staying but did not find her there. This prompted Cabral's driver to report the incident to the Baguio City Police Station 8. Search and rescue teams later found Cabral's body along the Bued River, which is estimated to be 20 to 30 meters below the highway. Cabral was brought to the Benguet General Hospital and Medical Center

Groups... From A1

Philippines (AmCham), stakeholders warned of the rising incidence of falsified oncology, cardiovascular, TB, and HIV drugs, underscoring the urgent need for stronger legal deterrence. Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) Acting Director General Nathaniel Arevalo stated that his agency sees the need for higher penalties for counterfeit medicines. “The counterfeit medicines are not ordinary fake goods. Counterfeit medicines endanger lives, and our laws must reflect the seriousness of this offense,” he said. Arevalo also emphasized that existing fines imposed under current laws are no longer adequate. “If penalties remain low, counter-

Speed... From A1

In their maiden finals appearance, Alas 1’s Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons swept Worapeerachayakorn Kongphopsarutawadee and Taravadee Naraphornrapat, 21-17, 21-15, before Alas 2’s Sunny Villapando and Dij Rodriguez closed the door on Tanarattha Udomchavee and Rumpaipruet Numvong, 21-13, 17-21, 156, to clinch the overall title. “Sobrang saya, lalong-lalo na sa amin ni Pons na pang-lima na namin ito and nakapag-gold din kami sa international,” said Rondina, whose team had never finished better than bronze before. She credited the breakthrough to patience and trust within the program. “Sabi ko nga magiging consistent lang kami… I think consistency lang din ipinakita namin kaya kami nakapag-gold ngayon,” she added. Pons, who was medal-less in the previous SEA Games, added: “Wala kaming medal nu’ng last SEA Games… sabi namin babawi kami.” Golds also poured in from other fronts as the Philippines tried in vail to keep pace in the medal race. In Bangkok, SEA Games debutant Peter Groseclose announced his arrival by winning gold in the men’s 500m short track speed skating after settling for silver in the 1,500m earlier in the day. “Definitely, it was a motivation… I really wanted to be better in the 500m,” said the 18-yearold Winter Youth Olympian. “I am

PBBM... From A1

priorities, a clean, humane budget focused on the welfare of the people," she added. Asked on whether the President would take a Christmas break, Castro said the review will take precedence. "There will be no holidays if needed," she said. "The budget must be studied thor-

Oil... From A1

to eventual restoration of disrupted Russian supply flows,” Jetti Petroleum president Leo Bellas said. He said that the forecast is based on the price movement indication for week of Dec. 22, 2025 on this week’s

and was pronounced dead at 12:03 a.m. Friday. The DPWH said it mourned the death of Cabral, who served the department for more than 40 years. "We recognize the profound loss the family is facing and offer our sincerest prayers. The department urges everyone to respect the family’s need for privacy as they mourn and come to terms with the sudden loss. We thank you for your compassion and understanding,” the department said in a statement. Both the Department of Justice and the Department of Interior and Local Government, however, said the investigation into the questionable flood control projects will continue and the filing of civil forfeiture cases against Cabral is still possible despite her death. Remulla said accountability does not end with death. “No matter what you do, the law will go after you. In life or in death, the wheels of justice will turn,” he said. “Let me be clear: The death of a person does not mean the wheels of justice will stop. The government will do everything to recover stolen public funds," he added.

For his part, Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon explained that civil liability survives the death of an individual. “We will proceed with possible filing of civil forfeiture cases just to make sure that we are able to get hold or preserve assets,” he said. Fadullon clarified, however, that Cabral’s death already extinguishes her possible criminal liability. Remulla also issued a warning to other individuals implicated in the case to face the charges against them. “To all accused, you should get thinking. Death will not protect you. Death will even bring greater shame to your family. Face up to the charges. Man up to the charges. Answer the charges. Have faith in the judicial system,” he said. Senate President Pro Tempore Ping Lacson described Cabral's death as unfortunate and tragic, saying she could have helped expose alleged corruption in the DPWH. Lacson, who chairs the Blue Ribbon Committee investigating flood control issues, expressed hope that Cabral may have left notes or files useful to ongoing inquiries. “She could have significantly con-

tributed to blowing wide open the extent of corruption not only in flood control projects but all other anomalies in the infrastructure program of the DPWH," he said. At the House, Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila de Lima said Cabral's death "invites great suspicion." "The death of Cabral can benefit a lot of people. Needless to state, it adversely impacts, to a large degree, the ongoing flood control investigation because now, everything might be pinned on Cabral as the mastermind," she said. "Cabral's residence, documents, and other personal effects should be applied for a seizure warrant and immediately secured by the authorities," De Lima added. Remulla noted possible lapses on the part of the police when they turned over the belongings, including the cellphone, of Cabral to her family. "It was a crime scene so there were lapses on the part of the investigators. But we are doing everything we can now to retrieve these materials,” he said. “The cellphone will be analyzed later. We're asking it from the family," Remulla added.

feiters will simply treat them as the cost of doing business. We need sanctions strong enough to deter, not just penalize,” he added. For her part, IPOPHL IP Rights Enforcement Office Supervising Director Atty. Christine Pangilinan-Canlapan underscored the need to pursue the source of counterfeit operations, not just small-scale resellers. “We cannot rely only on seizing products at the retail level,” she said. “To dismantle these networks, we must go after manufacturers and major distributors, and that requires stronger, clearer criminal provisions in our laws.” PHAP Executive Director Teodoro “Ted” Padilla also urged legislators to move decisively, saying, “If legitimate, affordable access is lacking, counterfeiters will fill the gap.” “But access alone isn’t enough; we need laws that make counterfeiting

medicines a serious crime, with serious consequences,” he added. Participants at the forum likewise raised alarm over recent seizures where supposed cancer drugs, HIV treatments, and life-saving antibiotics were found to contain contaminants or, in several cases, nothing more than water. These cases, they noted, reveal how counterfeiters are shifting toward high-value and high-demand medicines, exploiting patient desperation and persistent barriers to access. Arevalo shared new IPOPHL data showing that pharmaceutical and medical products now account for 8% of all counterfeit goods tracked nationwide as of November 2025. From January to October, 70% of counterfeit drugs intercepted were prescription medicines, many meant for serious or life-threatening conditions.

He warned that counterfeit operations are becoming increasingly sophisticated. “Some imitations are so precise that even trained professionals can be deceived,” Arevalo said, pointing to the reuse of authentic packaging and the rapid expansion of online sellers. Industry representatives supported the policy direction, noting that without meaningful sanctions, counterfeit networks will continue to operate with impunity. Meanwhile, the AmCham warned that the threat posed by counterfeit medicines transcends their economic toll. "Counterfeit medicine is not just economic sabotage; it is a fatal crime. Therefore, there should be harsher penalties for perpetrators," AmCham pharmaceutical committee chair Martin Crisostomo told Manila Standard on Friday.

really grateful to win this gold medal for Team Philippines.” The Blu Girls reasserted their supremacy in women’s softball, edging Singapore, 4-1, behind Royevel Palma’s complete-game, 10-strikeout performance to claim a record-extending 11th gold. The Philippine men’s tenpin bowling team—Mark Jesus San Jose, Kenneth Chua, Marc Dylan Custodio and Artegal Barrientos—also struck gold by overpowering Thailand in the finals, while Gilas Pilipinas Women reclaimed basketball supremacy with a gritty 73-70 win over the hosts. On the mat, Gabrielle Thomas Dinette added another gold by ruling the men’s 86kg freestyle in wrestling. The celebratory surge, however, was tempered by disappointment in boxing, where three Filipinos settled for silver after losing to Thai opponents in finals clouded by accusations of hometown decisions—an especially bitter pill for a nation long regarded as a regional boxing powerhouse. Paris Olympics’ bronze medalist Aira Villegas bowed to Chutamat Raksat in the women’s 50kg but accepted the verdict with grace. “Hindi pa binigay ni God… hindi pa doon natatapos ang lahat,” Villegas said. “Si God na po ang bahala sa desisyon, kung ibibigay niya o hindi tatanggapin ko ng maluwag.” Flint Jara (men’s bantamweight) and Bryan Baricuatro (men’s light flyweight) also lost to Thai foes -Thanarat Saengphet and Thitiwat Phlongaurai, respectively.

ICC... “The Prosecution submits that based on the unanimous findings of the Experts’ Reports, the Chamber has the necessary information to conclude that Mr. Duterte is fit to take part in the pre-trial proceedings, and accordingly, schedule the resumption of the proceedings on the confirmation of charges,” the motion read. The document was penned by Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang. The prosecutors asserted that a panel of experts who examined Duterte found him to be an “unreliable historian” of his health and mental capacities. “Mr Duterte was underperforming while being assessed. For instance, Dr [REDACTED] used the ‘coin in hand test’ which, as described in his report, is announced as a test for ‘short-term memory’, but is actually a ‘floor’ test that is ‘very simple even for an individual with moderate to severe memory impairment,’” the document stated. “As a result of this and other tests used to assess underperformance, all three experts concluded that Mr Duterte’s subjective complaints regarding his health and mental functions are unreliable,” it added. The Prosecution also argued that experts “unanimously agreed” that Duterte possessed the capacity to understand the charges and evidence against him, comprehend the conduct and possible consequences of the pre-trial proceedings, and provide instructions to his

legal counsel. The ICC ordered the medical evaluation after Duterte’s lawyers requested last August an indefinite adjournment of the case, citing concerns over their client’s health. The ICC Registry appointed three medical experts in September and added a fourth the following month. The panel submitted its findings on Dec. 5. To accommodate Duterte’s physical concerns, the prosecution deferred to the Chamber’s discretion regarding several proposed modifications to the court schedule. The medical panel and the Detention Centre’s Medical Officer recommended limiting court attendance to four days a week with no more than two consecutive hearing days. They also suggested starting sessions after 10 a.m., holding no more than two sessions per day, and keeping each session to 90 minutes with adequate breaks in between. They recommended providing nutritious food suited to Duterte’s cultural preferences and offered guidance on how he should be questioned or provided information. The prosecution concluded its submission by urging the Chamber to schedule the resumption of the confirmation of charges hearing “immediately.” The Office of Public Counsel for Victims (OPCV) earlier urged the ICC to proceed with the hearing, saying a panel of medical experts unanimously found him fit to take part in the proceedings.

oughly, and the President will push to sign it before the end of the year," Castro added. The Bicameral Conference Committee is expected to sign its report on Dec. 28, with ratification set for Dec. 29, leaving the President a narrow window to review the measure. Castro said the limited time frame will not deter the President from exercising his power to veto questionable provisions. "What the President truly wants is to have this signed before the year ends.

So, if it’s something that must be studied, if there won’t be any sleep, there won’t be any sleep, we’ll do it," Castro said. "Even with limited time, the President will study it carefully. If there are items that should be vetoed, the President will veto them," she added. She gave assurance that transparency remains a priority of the Marcos administration, given congressional guarantees that the budget is "clean"

and corruption-free. Castro said the President will independently assess the measure. “Even if Congress says it was studied well, the President will still review it and assure the public that this is a humane and orderly national budget,” she said. Castro said the review will be led by the President, with the Department of Budget and Management and relevant Cabinet secretaries possibly called in to explain provisions related to their agencies as necessary.

Mean of Platts Singapore and foreign exchange average (first 4 days) versus last week’s full week average. Rodela Romero, director of the Department of Energy’s Oil Industry Management Bureau said kerosene is also expected to have a rollback of over P1 per liter. “The bearish theme dominated all week is attributed with robust supply and weak demand overshadowing temporary

geopolitical spikes. Added to it, is an optimism over a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine,” Romero said. Bellas said the easing of concerns over tight supply as refineries return from turnaround following maintenance weighed on refined fuel products prices this week. “Furthermore, the prospect of increased exports from China as re-

fineries are set to boost refinery runs following the renewal of crude import quota and expectations of weaker global gasoline demand through the winter season are the major factors for this week’s price decline,” he said. On Dec. 16, the oil firms increased the price of gasoline by P0.20 per liter but cut the price of diesel and kerosene by P0.20 per liter.

From A1

Arrest... From A1

million ghost flood control project in Davao Occidental. In a statement after serving the warrants on Thursday evening, the Bureau assured "that all actions taken are in strict observance of due process and the rule of law.” Discaya underwent the standard booking and documentation and was temporarily committed to the NBI Detention Facility, it said. Earlier this month, Discaya surrendered to the NBI in anticipation of the issuance of warrants for her arrest as announced by President Marcos. She has been staying at the NBI compound ever since her preemptive surrender. Yesterday morning, Discaya, together with her husband, Pacifico, attended the preliminary investigation at the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Friday in relation to the tax evasion case filed against them by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). While Sarah was escorted by an NBI convoy, Pacifico, also called “Curlee,” came from the Senate, where he had been detained after being cited in contempt by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee. In October, the BIR filed tax evasion cases against the Discayas and their corporate officer, over the almost P7.2 billion in unpaid tax liabilities of St. Gerrard Construction. Later, Sarah was flown to Cebu to be presented before the Lapu-Lapu City Regional Trial Court Branch 27, the court that issued the warrant. As this developed, Former Bulacan District Engineer Henry Alcantara returned P71.3 million to the government, which accounts for the second tranche of funds committed for restitution. In a press briefing, Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon said this is part of the P300-million committed to the justice department. “The funds returned still have a balance of P119-million from the total P300-million… Over time, we will definitely make sure that what is provided in the Memorandum of Agreement will be returned at a definite time,” he said in Filipino. It can be recalled that the former DPWH official returned P110-million last month, an amount purportedly obtained from anomalous flood control projects. Fadullon noted that Alcantara has been provisionally admitted into the DOJ’s Witness Protection Program (WPP) and qualifies as a state witness such that he has an obligation to testify for and on behalf of the state in the cases covered by their Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). For his part, Acting Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida shared that the subject funds were the kickbacks from the projects where he had participated. Meanwhile, the Philippine government is poised to seize properties belonging to Ako Bicol party-list representative Zaldy Co, as authorities leverage Republic Act No. 1379, or the Forfeiture Law, to recover assets believed to have been unlawfully acquired. In a statement, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the government has already compiled a list of assets connected to Co. He explained that the Office of the Ombudsman, through the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), was able to trace a network of assets believed to be connected to the fugitive ex-lawmaker. Among them are two houses in Forbes Park, Makati City, the Midas Hotel and Casino, reportedly owned through Co’s company Eco Leisure, as well as the Misibis Bay Resort. “The legal theory that is going to be applied to Co and others is that there will be Civil Forfeiture of all their assets here, and assets there [abroad],” the DILG chief noted. For his part, acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., called on all of Discaya’s co-accused to surrender and spare themselves from the risks that come with playing hideand-seek with law enforcers. “Our units and tracker teams have already started working to serve the arrest warrant against all the respondents in this case. With the preparations that we did and the coordination with other law enforcement agencies, we are confident of locating and accounting for all of them in the soonest possible time,” he said. (with Vince Lopez)

NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

SWEET TREATS. After the early

morning Misa de Gallo at Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City, worshippers enjoy puto bumbong, a traditional Filipino rice delicacy that ushers in the Christmas season. Edd Castro

‘Uwan’ victims get modular shelters—DHSUD By Rio Araja

MMDA widens EDSA bus coverage By Joel E. Zurbano

HE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Friday announced it will allow provincial buses to traverse EDSA at nighttime beginning Saturday, December 20, until January 2, 2026, to accommodate the expected number of passengers heading home to the provinces this Christmas. “Starting on December 20, provin- EDSA between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.,” the cial buses will be allowed to pass along MMDA stated in its advisory.

These will also be allowed to traverse along EDSA round-the-clock (24 hours) starting on December 24. Provincial buses coming from north Luzon must terminate their trips at the bus terminals in Cubao, Quezon City, while those from south Luzon must terminate their trips at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) and Pasay. Bus carousel trips will not be affected by this adjustment for the holiday season.

The MMDA indicated that travel speeds are seen to drop further to around 15 kilometers per hour as Christmas approaches, with an expected 20-percent rise in traffic volume due to the inf lux of individuals and vehicles from Cavite, Laguna, Bulacan, and Central Luzon. The agency reminded the public to plan their trips carefully, particularly regarding visits to malls where adjusted operating hours are in effect.

THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development has turned over modular shelters to super typhoon “Uwan” victims in Mandaue City in Central Visayas for a safer and comfortable Christmas. Housing czar Jose Ramon Aliling said the deployment of the modular shelter units is part of the establishment of Bayanihan Village in compliance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to provide safer and dignified transitory refuge to typhoon-stricken communities. The department has committed about 200 MSUs that will serve as temporary shelters to families displaced by “Uwan.” Assistant Secretary Johnson Domingo represented the DHSUD during the simple turnover ceremony presided over by Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Jovito Ouano. The deployment of MSUs and setting up of Bayanihan Villages to calamity-stricken areas, spearheaded by Undersecretary Ed Robles, is among the latest innovations of DHSUD under the Bagong Pilipinas banner to uplift the living conditions of families displaced by disasters. The department earlier deployed MSUs and set up Bayanihan Villages in earthquake-stricken areas in Cebu and Davao Oriental provinces, and to fire victims in San Juan City.

IN BRIEF Padilla renews push for medical cannabis bill SENATOR Robin Padilla on Friday urged the Senate to reexamine its stance on medical cannabis, citing a major policy shift in the United States under President Donald Trump as proof that global attitudes are changing. Padilla anchored his appeal on his proposed Medical Cannabis Compassionate Act, which seeks to allow the strictly regulated medical use of cannabis administered only by licensed health professionals. “What else is missing, colleagues in the Senate? It’s for medical purposes, it’s not for recreational use. Those are two different things… it’s medicine for people who are ill. It’s not for a pot session. The difference is significant,” he said. The senator argued that medical cannabis should be treated as a legitimate therapeutic option for patients with serious illnesses, particularly those who lack access to costly synthetic medicines. Ram Superable

PH Army, Japan defense seek humanitarian collab

CONTRABAND. Some P143 million in suspected undocumented and smuggled cigarettes, loaded in two trailer trucks and intercepted along G. Araneta Avenue in Quezon City, are presented by authorities to the media Friday, Dec. 19, 2025. Manny Palmero

Central Luzon bloc declares full support for Dy

THE Philippine Army and the Japan Ground SelfDefense Force (JGSDF) are exploring opportunities to strengthen collaboration in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations. Army chief Lt Gen. Antonio Nafarrete met with JGSDF chief-of-staff Gen. Arai Masayoshi on Dec. 16 at the Ground Staff Office in Ichigaya, Tokyo. “The two leaders had a fruitful exchange of views regarding peace and stability between the two nations, and sought cooperation on HADR,” an Army news release said Friday. “The PA values strong relationships with international stakeholders, with the intention of maintaining peace within the Indo-Pacific Region. Bilateral meetings with other key figures ensure the organization’s potential growth through training and subject matter expert exchanges,” it added. Rex Espiritu

THE 24-member Central Luzon bloc has formally declared its “full, unequivocal, and resolute support” for Speaker Faustino Dy III, further consolidating unity in the House of Representatives and bringing the total number of lawmakers publicly backing his leadership to 266. The declaration was made through a resolution adopted on December 15, led by chairperson Emeritus Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Central Luzon bloc president Pampanga Rep. Anna York Bondoc.

Bill seeks CSC eligibility for casuals, contractuals

New PH pitcher plant at risk from poaching

A BILL is filed at the House of Representatives pushing for casual and contractual government employees to achieve Civil Service Eligibility (CSE) after rendering at least five (5) years of “continuous efficient service.” House Bill 6960 aims to give qualified government workers access to benefits, security of tenure, and more career opportunities as part of the Civil Service. “Unlike regular or appointed government employees, casual and contractual workers do not enjoy benefits such as paid leaves, thirteenth month pay, and security of tenure,” said the bill’s explanatory note read. “Five years of casual or contractual employment is more than enough to prove that the employee is capable of regular employment and the benefits their peers and colleagues enjoy.” HB 6960 covers “those who are holding casual or contractual positions in the first and second levels, and who have rendered at least five (5) years of continuous efficient service.” However, the appropriate CSE requirement should still be secured if the employee wants to be promoted. Maricel Cruz

By Maricel V. Cruz

PHILIPPINE scientists and an Australian expert have just confirmed a new species of pitcher plant found only on Palawan Island, but warned that it is already at risk of extinction due to frequent severe weather conditions and human encroachment. A carnivorous vine that uses cup-shaped pitchers to trap insects, Nepenthes megastoma—from the Greek for “large mouth”—is found in only three locations in the steep and rocky karst terrain of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. “It’s amazing that these plants have evolved to survive in such difficult and inaccessible conditions. And yet, despite their hardiness, their existence is threatened by human activity—directly by way of encroachment and poaching, and indirectly through the effects of anthropogenic climate change,” said researcher John Charles Altomonte. The few areas where N. megastoma grows

Deputy Speaker and Zambales Rep. Jefferson Khonghun and House Committee on Appropriations Chair and Nueva Ecija Rep. Mikaela Angela Suansing were also among the signatories to the resolution, which was also signed by lawmakers from Pampanga, Bulacan, Bataan, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Aurora and Zambales. In the resolution, the Central Luzon bloc emphasized the House is facing heightened political, economic and social challenges, coupled with intensified public scrutiny, making unity and principled leadership not only necessary but imperative.

The bloc said Dy has consistently shown “decisive, inclusive, and steady leadership,” allowing the House to continue operating effectively and responding to national concerns while staying true to its constitutional role, even amid growing pressure and repeated attacks against the institution. They further cited the Speaker’s emphasis on “accountability, collegiality, and fairness,” and his role in safeguarding “the independence of the House of Representatives against premature judgment, misinformation and undue political attacks.”

ENDANGERED. Photos of Nepenthes megastoma, a newly-described critically endangered species

endemic to Palawan, Philippines, showing its lower pitcher (a) and two distinct variant forms of its upper pitcher (b-c). Altomonte et al., 2025

are so difficult to reach that the plant could only be properly documented using drones and long-range cameras. Ecologists first spotted them in 2013, but initially thought they were an already known

species, N. campanulata, from nearby Borneo. Only after detailed fieldwork, drone surveys, and close study were the researchers able to confirm the plant to be a previously unknown Philippine species.

OPINION

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

Honor Blanco Cabie

Deep dive into Ilokano orthography POSSIBLY it will take years, and several academic calendars, before teachers who participated in the GUMIL Filipinas webinar in recent years had imparted for the Ilokano-speaking mentors the ABCs of Ilokano orthography. There is hope as well that writers – aspiring and professional in the different genres – had picked up marbles for models of alphabetic literacy acquisition, the first grade in learning of alphabetic orthographies. We need not over-emphasize the issue that Mother Tongue Based-Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE) policy in the country, which has at least 13 regions with languages as major as Tagalog of Metro Manila and surrounding provinces, involves implementation of local mother tongues as the language of instruction in Kindergarten to year Grade 3, with the official languages (Filipino and English) being introduced as the language of instruction after grade three. Our friends from the Tagalog-speaking regions will take note that the official language is not Tagalog but Filipino, although many still cling to the pompous, if haughty, sentiment that Tagalog is the same as Filipino – an insult to the other regional languages like Bisaya, Waray, Ilonggo, Pampango, Bikolnon, Pangasinense, Maguindanaon, and Ilokano. We have seen modules distributed by the central office of the Department of Education to public school teachers in the Ilocos Region, the modules filled with inclusions of Tagalog items and songs some northerners think are not helpful at all in teaching the young of the area to be proud of their culture. There is a persuasive argument and observation that other modules sent to other regions had a heavy load of Tagalog “gems” of the culture of Metro Manila and the nearby Tagalog-speaking provinces. For instance, why teach the Ilokanos the epic Florante at Laura when they have their own Lam-ang? Or why teach Tagalog love songs and lullabies to the Ilokano children when they have their own “Diro Ni Ayat” or even “Ti Ayat Ti Maysa Nga Ubing” or the Cebuano children popular Tagalog songs when they have their own “Matud Nila” or even “Usahay”? And the problem is aggravated when the uncomplaining public school teachers could not even make suggestions, out of fear they might be marked by the central office, which previously earned valid criticisms due to grammar lapses and other errors in the modules during a test broadcast run in some better forgotten season? It only showed and it shows the condescending attitude of some that anything Tagalog must be considered exemplar, kind of a model, for the other regions that want erased from the culture map of this multi-ethnic, multi-lingual nation of 117

million people. If the public school teachers who participated in the GUMIL webinar would not be able to impart properly and effectively the learning they got from Cles Rambaud et al. then the webinar was a waste of time. The same holds true in the case of aspiring writers, including, sadly, some professional writers, who have their own bordered orthographies, the checkered threads of winning in some literary contests despite.

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Our friends from the Tagalog-speaking regions will take note that the official language is not Tagalog but Filipino Until such time that there is a unified orthography for one language – and this must be true as well for other regions – then orthography, whoever would be pushing it, would be a failure. And we are not talking here of one orthography where the Tagalogs’ imperialistic proclivities would be allowed to gobble up the other existing orthographies of other regions, making the latter disappear into the sunset of such hegemonic predisposition. Only time, really, can tell how successful the GUMIL webinar on orthography had been, and what major inroads it had paved for Ilokano children and their teachers and for writers who continue to write about their dreams and observations in a world confronted by climate change and the imbalance in the flow of news as well as other issues. It will not be the fault at all of the lecturers if any success had not been notched by the participants. As some academics have openly suggested, it is not the fault at all of the scholars working in orthography templates where cognitive psycholinguistics and research in reading acquisition has a long and competent tradition. They say, rather persuasively, this reflects the fact that the question of orthographic differences in reading acquisition in alphabetic orthographies has been outside of the focus of research, and that the implicit assumption has been that the non-English findings are somehow less universal than the findings concerning the English orthography. This holds true for Philippine orthographies, the different writing systems as it were, which can be classified according to the levels of linguistic information that is coded in the script.

Forfeiture of properties of public officers or employees THE forfeiture of assets and properties of errant public officers or employees is a statutory measure for the government to recover unlawfully acquired properties. Forfeiture occurs because the properties they acquired are disproportionate to their salaries or other lawful income. The “forfeiture proceedings under Republic Act 1379 are civil in nature. [Hence,] the quantum of evidence required… is preponderance of evidence, which is the greater weight of evidence… [T]he burden of proof lies with the Republic to establish the allegations in its petition…” (Heirs of Ligot, et al. v. Republic of the Philippines, G.R. R.A. 1379 creates a prima facie presumption that when “any public officer or employee has acquired during his incumbency an amount of property which is manifestly out of proportion to his salary… and to his other lawful income and the income from legitimately acquired property, said property shall be presumed prima facie to have been unlawfully acquired.” (Op cit., Section 2) The law “covers not only properties directly under the name of the public officer or employee but also to those concealed or transferred to any other person, so long as the true ownership is traceable to said public officer or employees… [R.A.] 1379 would be rendered ineffec-

tual if the registration of properties in the name of third persons would… forestall the presumption…” In the case of Heirs of Ligot, et al. v. Republic of the Philippines (Republic), several properties of the Lieutenant General Jacinto Ligot were forfeited in favor of the Republic.

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[T]he burden of proof lies with the Republic to establish the allegations in its petition… As to his alleged properties in the United States, the Supreme Court relied on the findings of the Sandiganbayan that “the fact of Erlinda’s (Ligot’s wife) acquisition of the two properties remained uncontroverted.” (Op cit.) “On the Paseo Parkview condominium units, both General Ligot and the heirs of Paragas insist that Paragas was its true owner, especially since they were registered in her name. “However, it is a fact that General Ligot and Erlinda issued checks as payment

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Crucial public health crisis

ET again, Metro Manilans, some 13 million of the country’s population of 117 million, wake up and told that air pollution in the rising megapolis consistently exceeds global safety standards, exposing the residents to serious health risks. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels are often several times higher than the World Health Organization’s recommended limits, according to multiple sources monitoring the pollution level. Multiple sources, including reports by the air quality technology company IQAir, environmental groups like Greenpeace, and the Philippine government’s Environmental Management Bureau, confirm that air pollution in Metro Manila routinely exceeds both the country’s normal guideline values. Metro Manila’s air pollution levels are seen by environmental scientists as higher than the world average, the root cause being the rapid urbanization and industrialization, which lead to significant emissions, predominantly from vehicular traffic and industrial processes. But the air pollution situation in Metro Manila, while a significant public health crisis, is not considered hopeless, as recent data and ongoing initiatives demonstrate that improvement is possible through targeted actions and

policies. In essence, vehicle emissions in Metro Manila are a critical environmental and health issue, characterized by high pollutant loads and significant contributions to both local smog and global warming.

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But the air pollution situation in Metro Manila, while a significant public health crisis, is not considered hopeless Pollution analysts say while air quality has improved, industrial activities, particularly in heavy sectors like steel production and chemical manufacturing, remain significant contributors to local air quality issues. There are reasons for hope, however, in light of progress done by the authorities.

Air quality consultants say the COVID-19 lockdowns from mid March 2020 provided a stark, realworld example of rapid air quality improvement. The significant reduction in traffic and industrial activity led to a 40 percent decrease in PM2.5 levels within a fortnight, making the Sierra Madre mountains visible from the city center and offering tangible proof that human actions directly impact air quality. Scientists say overall air quality in Metro Manila has actually improved over the past two decades due to efforts like phasing out leaded gasoline and anti-firecracker campaigns. PM2.5 levels have reportedly seen a 37.6 percent reduction since 2016. Government agencies and private organizations are also collaborating on data-driven solutions and policies are being implemented to ban older vehicles, enforce industrial emission standards, and adopt stricter fuel standards. While the challenge is significant, the evidence shows that a combination of government regulation, technological improvements, and public action can lead to better air quality in the country’s capital region. These improvements are attributed to stricter emission standards and enhanced industrial monitoring.

EU agrees 90-b-euro loan for Ukraine, without Russian assets BRUSSELS – EU leaders struck a deal Friday to provide Ukraine a loan of 90 billion euros to plug its looming budget shortfalls -- but failed to agree on using frozen Russian assets to come up with the funds. The middle-of-the-night agreement reached at summit talks in Brussels offers Kyiv a desperately needed lifeline as US President Donald Trump pushes for a quick deal to end Russia’s nearly four-year war. “Today’s decision will provide Ukraine with the necessary means to defend itself and to support the Ukrainian people,” European Council head Antonio Costa, who chaired the summit, said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote on X that the deal “is significant support that truly strengthens our resilience,” adding: “It is important that Russian assets remain immobilized and that Ukraine has received a financial security guarantee for the coming years.” After scrambling around for a solution, EU leaders settled on coming up with a loan for the next two years backed by the bloc’s common budget. The number one option on the table had been to tap around 200 billion euros of Russian central bank assets frozen in the EU to generate a loan for Kyiv. But that scheme fell by the wayside after Belgium, where the vast bulk of the assets are held, demanded guarantees on sharing liability -- something that proved too much for other countries. Briefing reporters as the summit wrapped up, Prime Minister Bart De Wever said he believed “rationality has prevailed”. “This whole business was so risky, so

Using joint debt requires a unanimous decision by the EU’s 27 countries, and skeptics Hungary, Slovakia and Czech Republic were given an exemption from the commitment to avoid a blockage. ‘It’s moral’ The EU estimates Ukraine needs an extra 135 billion euros ($159 billion) to stay afloat over the next two years, with the cash crunch set to start in April. Zelenskyy told EU leaders at the start of the summit on Thursday that using Russian assets was the right way to go.

“Russian assets must be used to defend against Russian aggression and rebuild what was destroyed by Russian attacks. It’s moral. It’s fair. It’s legal,” Zelenskyy said. While Kyiv may be left disappointed that the EU did not take the leap to use the Russian assets, securing financing another way was still a relief. Zelenskyy told the leaders that Kyiv needed a decision by the end of the year, and that putting his country on firmer footing could give it more leverage in talks to end the war. Ukraine, US talks Alongside the EU’s discussions, Washington has pushed its own effort to forge a deal to end the war. Washington has so far largely sidelined Europe from the negotiations -- but French President Emmanuel Macron said it was time for the continent to start talking to Moscow itself. “I believe that it’s in our interest as Europeans and Ukrainians to find the right framework to re-engage this discussion,” he said, adding that Europeans should find the means to do so “in coming weeks.” Zelenskyy announced Ukrainian and US delegations would hold new talks on Friday and Saturday in the United States. He said he wanted Washington to give more details on the guarantees it could offer to protect Ukraine from another invasion. “What will the United States of America do if Russia comes again with aggression?” he asked. “What will these security guarantees do? How will they work?” Trump nonetheless kept the pressure on Kyiv, saying again he hopes Ukraine “moves quickly” to agree a deal. AFP

for the Paseo Parkview condominium units, covering a majority of the amortization payments.” “Since there is sufficient proof that the consideration for the units came from General Ligot and Erlinda… it is more reasonable to conclude that they are the true owners of the Paseo Parkview condominium units.” “Registration of properties in the name of third persons [cannot] forestall the presumption under Section 2 of the law from arising.” “As to [his alleged] land in Tanay, Rizal, General Ligot maintains that he is not the true owner and merely stood as representative of the various AFP officersbuyers.” “General Ligot admitted that he executed a Deed of Absolute Sale as purchaser of the Tanay property… [and he] likewise did not deny that it is registered under his name.”

“As aptly observed by the Sandiganbayan, the witnesses could not explain how much was purportedly collected from the AFP personnel who participated in the purchase. “Moreover, to date, there is still no partitioning and conveyance of the properties to the supposed end-buyers as the title remains in General Ligot’s name.” On the Essensa condominium unit, Gen. Ligot argued it was “improperly included as it is actually owned and titled under the name of Yambao, who had already proved that he had financial capacity to purchase the same.” The latter argued “the presumption under Republic Act 1379 cannot prevail over the strong presumption of ownership created by the titling of the property in his name.” The Supreme Court explained that R.A. 1379 “covers not only properties directly under the name of the public of-

ficer or employee but also to those concealed or transferred to any other person, so long as the true ownership is traceable to said public officer or employees.” “It likewise bears stressing that the registration of a condominium certificate of title is not, by itself, a mode of acquiring ownership...” (Op cit.) “No sufficient reason was given as to why these deposits were omitted from his SALNs, considering that the value alone was more than twice of his declared income.” There being no other proof of cash flow sources presented, the “law’s criteria of manifest disproportionality” was satisfied. (Op cit.) Having failed to overcome the presumption that the properties were unlawfully acquired, they are deemed forfeitable in favor of the government. For this reason, the Supreme Court found no reason to deviate from the findings of the Sandiganbayan.

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Anita F. Grefal Baldwin R. Felipe Edgar M. Valmorida

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Treasury Manager Head—Ad Solutions Circulation Manager

dangerous, and raised so many questions -- it was like a sinking ship, like the Titanic. The die are cast now -- and everyone is relieved.” German Chancellor Friedrich Merz had pushed hard for the asset plan -- but still said the final decision on the loan “sends a clear signal” to Russian President Vladimir Putin. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said Ukraine would only need to pay back the loan once Moscow coughs up for the damages it has wrought.

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After scrambling around for a solution, EU leaders settled on coming up with a loan for the next two years backed by the bloc’s common budget

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher Joyce Pangco Pañares Managing Editor Virgilio DC Galvez News Editor Miguel Gil City Editor

Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Aytch dela Cruz Online Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

WORLD

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

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Verdict looms for Malaysia’s Najib in mega 1MDB corruption trial KUALA LUMPUR – Jailed former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak faces a make-or-break week from Monday as a second court battle over his role in the country’s 1MDB mega-corruption scandal draws to an end. The 72-year-old -- already serving six years for graft linked to the sovereign wealth fund’s plunder -- risks another lengthy prison term if convicted of fresh charges next Friday after a marathon trial. But Monday brings a separate High Court ruling on his bid to change his current sentence -- being served at Kajang Prison outside Kuala Lumpur since Aug. 2022 -- to one of house arrest. Next Friday’s verdict on charges of abuse of power and money laundering worth hundreds of millions of dollars looms larger, however. Prosecutors say Najib abused his position as prime minister, finance minister and 1MDB advisory board chairman to move large amounts of money from the fund to his personal account more than a decade ago. He faces four counts of abuse of power to obtain some 2.28 billion ringgit ($554 million) from 1MDB funds, plus 21 counts of money laundering. The prosecution presented bank records, testimony from over 50 witnesses and documentary evidence, while slapping down defense arguments blaming Najib’s close associate -- the shadowy fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho, also known as Jho Low. AFP

IN BRIEF Officials ID suspect in US mass shooting NEW YORK – US officials have identified a suspect in the shooting at Brown University that killed two students and injured several others, US media reported Thursday, in a major breakthrough in the case. CNN cited two unnamed law enforcement officials familiar with the case as saying investigators believe they have pinpointed a suspect. CBS News reported similar information. The shooting happened Saturday, when a man with a rifle burst into a campus building at the Ivy League college where students were taking exams. The man opened fire, killing two students and then fleeing. Investigators appeared to have little to go on, releasing images of a person of interest and an individual who was seen standing near that person in an effort to trace them. Officials have given daily media updates at which they have voiced increasing frustration with the so far fruitless manhunt. The two students killed were Ella Cook, vice president of Brown’s Republican Party association, and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, originally from Uzbekistan, who had hoped to become a neurosurgeon. AFP

Violence erupts in Bangladesh D

HAKA – Violence broke out in Bangladesh’s capital early Friday after a youth leader of the country’s 2024 pro-democracy uprising who was injured in an assassination attempt died in a hospital in Singapore.

Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Dhaka after the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, 32, was announced, to demand that his killers be arrested. Several buildings in the capital, including those housing the country’s two leading newspapers, were set on fire, according to authorities, with staff trapped inside. Hadi was a key figure in last year’s uprising that ended the autocratic rule of

prime minister Sheikh Hasina and sent her fleeing to India. He was running for a parliament seat in the February 2026 national election. On Dec. 12, Hadi was shot by masked assailants as he was leaving a mosque in Dhaka. He was airlifted to a hospital in Singapore for treatment, where he succumbed to his injuries on Thursday. At least three cases of arson were reported in Dhaka after the news of his

death spread early Friday, a spokesperson for the Fire Brigade and Civil Defense force told AFP, including a fire at the Daily Star building and another at a building housing the Prothom Alo newspaper. The two papers are the largest in the South Asian country, but protesters accused them of being aligned with neighboring India, where Hasina has taken refuge. Zyma Islam, a reporter for the Daily Star said she was trapped inside the burning building. “I can’t breathe anymore. There’s too much smoke. I am inside. You are killing me,” she wrote on her Facebook page. The fire at the Daily Star building was brought under control at 1:40 am, fire-

fighting officials said. However, 27 employees were still inside. “We took refuge at the rear of the building and could hear them chanting slogans,” Ahmed Deepto, a Star reporter, told AFP, referring to protesters. The house of India’s deputy ambassador to Bangladesh was also surrounded by hundreds of people who were trying to demonstrate in a sit-in, but police lobbed tear gas shells to disperse the crowd, according to local news reports. In addition, protesters blocked a key highway leading from the capital and attacked the residence of a former minister in Chittagong in the country’s southeast, according to footage shown on local television. AFP

Trump shifts top mission to Moon

‘IRREPARABLE LOSS.’ An activist holds a poster of Sharif Osman Hadi, 32, senior leader of the student protest

group Inqilab Mancha, who was shot outside a mosque, during a demonstration to condemn the attack in Dhaka on Dec. 15, 2025. Violence broke out in Bangladesh’s capital Friday after reports he died in Singapore, with protesters demanding his killers be arrested. In addition, protesters blocked a key highway leading from the capital and attacked the residence of a former minister in Chittagong in the country’s southeast, according to footage shown on local television. AFP

Pakistan arrests top official from IS offshoot ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has captured a leader from an offshoot of the Islamic State jihadist group, a senior intelligence official said Friday, after the arrest was reported by a UN sanctions monitoring group. Sultan Aziz Azam, who also acted as a spokesman for the Islamic State Khorasan (IS-K), was arrested on May 16, according to a UN committee’s sanctions monitoring report submitted to the Security Council in November. “He was not just a spokesman but regarded as one of the top leaders for the

group in the region,” the Pakistani intelligence official told AFP on condition of anonymity as he was not authorized to speak to media. “The arrest was not made public as it could have affected counterterrorism operations” initiated after Azam’s questioning, the official added. IS-K, the local branch of the Islamic State group, has claimed responsibility for some of the most horrific attacks in Afghanistan, Pakistan and beyond in recent years, many targeting civilians.

In March 2024 its gunmen killed more than 140 people at a Moscow concert hall, and the group has carried out a series of deadly attacks in both Afghanistan and Pakistan since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. The intelligence official and the UN report did not specify which country Azam was captured in. Taliban authorities have repeatedly said security is their top priority and vowed to crack down on IS-K and other militant groups operating in Afghanistan. AFP

WASHINGTON, DC – US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Friday, Manila time) confirmed that he wants to send astronauts back to the Moon as soon as possible, putting eventual Mars missions on the back burner. In an executive order on his space policy, Trump said he wanted to get Americans to the Moon by 2028, under NASA’s Artemis program launched during his first White House term. Such a lunar landing would “assert American leadership in space, lay the foundations for lunar economic development, prepare for the journey to Mars, and inspire the next generation of American explorers,” the order says. It also says the US space agency NASA hopes to set up “initial elements of a permanent lunar outpost by 2030” and confirms plans to deploy nuclear reactors “on the Moon and in orbit.” Americans are currently scheduled to return to the Moon’s surface in mid2027 on the Artemis 3 mission, but the timeline has been repeatedly pushed back. And industry experts say it likely will be delayed again because the lunar lander in development at Elon Musk’s SpaceX is not yet ready. Trump’s executive order puts increased pressure on both NASA and the private space sector to reach the administration’s objectives. The United States is keen to bypass China, which also intends to send a crew to the Moon by 2030 and set up a base there. Putting the priority on a lunar mission represents a policy shift from what Trump had said earlier this year. When he returned to the White House in January, the Republican said he wanted to put the American flag on Mars before the end of his four-year term, without mentioning any such plans for the Moon. AFP

New York’s pro-Trump Cardinal Frenchwoman sentenced replaced with pro-migrant bishop

to 10 years imprisonment PARIS – The second Frenchwoman to be repatriated from Syrian camps holding Islamic State members and displaced people was on Thursday sentenced to 10 years in prison. Carole Sun, 30, was found guilty of participating in a terrorist criminal conspiracy by a special criminal court in Paris. She left France for Syria in July 2014 with her brother and was arrested by Kurdish forces in December 2017, when the IS self-styled caliphate was collapsing. She and other women were then held in detention camps in Idlib. Sun returned to France on July 5, 2022 as part of the first repatriation of French nationals. She told the court she had been radicalized online. The judge said the defendant knew or lived with “extremely high-profile individuals” who were known for “cruel” acts or for fighting in units with links to the Nov. 2015 Paris attacks. AFP

NEW YORK – The newly named promigrant archbishop of New York called himself an “unworthy servant” during his first Mass in the city after Pope Leo XIV named his fellow Chicago native to replace a conservative cardinal Thursday (Friday, Manila time). In a significant shift for the US Catholic Church, Leo replaced Timothy Dolan, who stepped down after reaching the church’s retirement age of 75, with Ronald Hicks, a 58-year-old bishop from Illinois. “I’ve always loved the energy of New York,” Hicks said at a Mass for the staff of the New York archdiocese in Manhattan’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which he also addressed in Spanish. He will be formally installed Feb. 6. The New York archdiocese is among the largest in the United States and the pick ends months of speculation about who would follow Dolan, widely regard-

ed as being close to President Donald Trump. Hicks’s appointment is the most consequential Leo has made since his election to head up the world’s Catholics in May and signals a desire to push back firmly on the US administration’s policies. Hicks shares several similarities with Leo including outspoken solidarity with migrants at a time when Trump is ordering mass deportations and portraying migrants and refugees as criminals. “Thanks to all of you...and thanks to God,” Hicks said in Spanish. More than 36 percent of New Yorkers are foreign-born and 1.8 million speak Spanish at home, per official data. In November, the pope endorsed a rare statement from the US Conference of Catholic Bishops which heavily criticized the Trump administration’s zerotolerance policies toward undocumented migrants. AFP

Trump renames Kennedy arts center after himself WASHINGTON, DC – Donald Trump has been stamping his mark on Washington ever since his return to power. Now in an extraordinary step for a living president, the US capital’s top arts venue will also bear his name. The Kennedy Center, named after slain US president John F. Kennedy, is to be renamed the “Trump-Kennedy Center” after a vote by its board -- which Trump himself hand-picked earlier this year, the White House said Thursday (Friday, Manila time). Effectively renaming the iconic center after himself is the culmination of the 79-yearold Republican’s drive to overhaul an institution he previously branded as too woke. It also comes amid other grandiose schemes such as demolishing the White House East Wing in order to install a $400-million ballroom, and announcing the construction of a large triumphal arch. AFP

DEFIANT VENEZUELANS. A man takes pictures with his phone of letters forming the word Maracaibo on the shore of Lake Maracaibo in Zulia state, Venezuela, on Friday, Manila time. Venezuela struck a defiant note the day before, insisting its crude oil exports were not impacted by US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a potentially crippling blockade. AFP

FOR LEGITIMATE MEDICAL USE. US President Donald Trump speaks to journalists after signing an executive order in the Oval Office of the White House on Friday, Manila time, in Washington, DC. Trump signed the order reclassifying marijuana as a schedule III drug. Dozens of US states already have legal medical marijuana programs, and many including California also have approved its recreational use. AFP

Trump orders marijuana reclassified as less dangerous drug, paving way for research WASHINGTON, DC – US President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday (Friday, Manila time) to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug, paving the way for more medical research on the use of cannabis products. The long-awaited move will take marijuana out of the most hazardous category of narcotics alongside heroin and LSD, although it does not legalize its use across the United States. But Trump said that while it “no way sanctions its use as a recreational drug” it would make it better available for “legitimate medical uses” such as for people with cancer and chronic pain. “We have people begging for me to do this. People that are in great pain,” Trump said in the Oval Office. “This reclassification order will make it far easier to conduct marijuana-related medical research, allowing us to study benefits, potential dangers and future

treatments. It’s going to have a tremendously positive impact.” Marijuana is currently classified as a Schedule I substance -- in the same league as drugs like heroin. The US government considers these drugs to have high abuse potential without accepted use for medical treatment. Schedule III substances, which include ketamine and anabolic steroids, are considered to have medical value and less potential for abuse. Dozens of US states already have legal medical marijuana programs, and many including California also have approved its recreational use. But Trump’s move is aimed at lowering barriers to research, as authorizing clinical studies on Schedule I substances can require many layers of approval. It could also be a major tax boost for companies that legally grow and sell cannabis. AFP

NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025 MST.DAYDESK@GMAIL.COM

BSP: Consumer confidence drops amid graft woes By Thony Rose Lesaca

REAL TIME TRAFFIC UPDATES. Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman Romando Artes and SM Supermalls officials lead the launch of the Traffic Information Sharing Project, showcasing close circuit television traffic feeds livestreamed to SM malls to provide motorists and commuters with real-time traffic updates across key EDSA corridors. Manny Palmero

Former PNP chief Torre is new MMDA general manager—Palace By Charles Dantes

RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has named former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III as the new Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) general manager, replacing Procopio Lipana, Malacañang announced on Friday.

In a short message to Palace reporters, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro confirmed earlier reports regarding Torre’s appointment. Torre probably had the shortest stint as the PNP’s 31st chief, beginning in June 2025 and ended last August, replaced by Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. in acting capacity.

Torre’s appointment to the MMDA came as the administration presses efforts to streamline traffic enforcement and strengthen inter-agency coordination in the capital. The MMDA oversees policies and operations affecting the National Capital Region, including traffic regulation, disaster response coordination, and urban services.

IN BRIEF BI nabs Chinese crime ring leader in Taytay THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested a Chinese fugitive suspected of being the leader of a drug and kidnapping syndicate based in Rizal province. The suspect, identified as Shi Chunfang, 40, was apprehended in a residential area in Taytay, Rizal. Shi is wanted by Chinese police for kidnapping and is the subject of a standing warrant issued by the Public Security Bureau of Jinjiang City in 2024. The BI said it was informed by the Chinese embassy that Shi’s passport had already been cancelled, rendering him an undocumented alien. He is also covered by a blacklist order issued in January and a watchlist order issued in July for being an undesirable alien. Arrested with Shi was Shuguang Fan, 37, who is the subject of an order to leave issued by the BI in 2023 for his prolonged and unexplained stay in the country. Vito Barcelo

Comelec to young voters: Register for SK polls THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has urged young Filipinos to register as voters for the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) polls in November next year. In a press statement, Comelec chairman George Garcia noted that teenagers who are at least 14 years old can register as SK voters provided they turn 15 years old on or before the SK polls set on Nov. 2, 2026. “Those who are 14 years old now will turn 15 years old next year, therefore, they can already cast their votes for the SK elections,” Garcia said at a Voters Education Program in Davao del Norte held on Thursday. The poll chief said he wants the youth to experience participating in an electoral exercise. “It brings a different feeling, especially for the youth. It means you are now really part of the society. Indeed, you are now a true Filipino since each of you now has a voice,” he added. The Comelec said under Resolution 11177, eligible to register as SK voters are those at least 15 years but not more than 30 years of age, and residing in the barangay for at least six months on or before the SK elections. Meanwhile, based on the latest Comelec data, 223,282 applied to become SK voters from Oct. 20 to Dec. 14. A total of 218,801 applications received are new registrants; 918 applications were for transfer from other city/ municipality; 279 applications were for transfer within the same city/municipality; and 3,284 were cor rection of entries. The voters’ registration period will end on May 18, 2026.

FILIPINO consumers have become less confident during the fourth quarter of 2025 amid graft and corruption concerns and unfavorable weather conditions, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported on Friday. The overall consumer confidence index (CI) turned more pessimistic as it fell to -22.2 percent, down from -9.8 percent in the third quarter. This means that more respondents had a negative outlook in the latest Consumer Expectations Survey (CES) of 5,489 households. The BSP said the decline in public confidence was also due to higher inflation, lower household income and natural calamities that affected Filipino consumers. Looking ahead, local consumer sentiment are also seen to fall to 3.6 percent in the first quarter of 2026 and 11.8 percent over the next 12 months. These were both comparatively lower than the 6.9 percent and 14.1 percent outlook in the third quarter. However, the BSP noted that the projected sentiment remained positive at its current levels, which reflected a “favorable outlook in the near term.” Consumers also expect inflation to stay within the government’s target range over the next 12 months amid well-anchored household inflation expectations. When materialized, this could help support investments and job creation in the country, the BSP said.

Two Reds die in Samar clash vs. Army soldiers TRASLACION WALKTHROUGH. Government officials conduct a final walkthrough and inspection of the streets and routes for the upcoming annual Traslación of the Black Nazarene in Manila, beginning at the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta Park and ended at the Quiapo church. Norman Cruz

AFP marks 90th year, reaffirms commitment to national defense By Rex Espiritu ARMED Forces of the Philippines (AFP)chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Friday reaffirmed the military’s commitment to national defense, peace, and service to the people as the AFP marked its 90th founding anniversary. Speaking at the anniversary rites, Brawner said the celebration, with the theme “AFP at 90: Matatag na Sandatahang Lakas, Sandigan ng Bagong Pilipinas,” honored nine decades of steadfast service, sacrifice, and loyalty to the Constitution and the Filipino people. “We commemorate not just our institution, but also the heart of the AFP, its people.” Brawner said, adding that the anniversary activities focused on troop welfare, stakeholder engagement, remembrance of fallen soldiers, and service to communities. Brawner highlighted the AFP’s accomplishments in 2025, citing intensified internal security operations that sustained pressure on threat groups, supported peace efforts, and safeguarded communities nationwide. On external defense, he said the AFP strengthened its territorial defense posture through Campaign Plan Tatag Kapuluan, underscoring

the military’s resolve to protect the country’s sovereignty and national interests. The AFP chief also cited challenges in the information and cyber domains, saying they have launched the AFP Communication Plan “Mulat” to enhance maritime domain awareness, strengthen national consciousness, and counter disinforma-

CANDYLAND. The town of Tuao, Cagayan hustles and bustles in the countdown to Christmas with free public access to a Disneyland-style Candyland Christmas Village set up at the municipal town hall compound. Jessica M. Bacud

tion—particularly in relation to the West Philippine Sea. “Ating karagatan, ating karapatan, at ang ating kinabukasan (Our seas, our rights, our future,)” Brawner said, stressing that the AFP continues to uphold a rules-based international order through maritime patrols, joint exercises, and engagements with like-minded nations.

TWO New People’s Army (NPA) guerillas were reported killed and three high-powered firearms seized during an armed encounter with government troops in the hinterlands of Barangay Bulao, Las Navas, Northern Samar on Friday, Dec. 19. The Army’s 8th Infantry Division said soldiers of the 20th Infantry Brigade were responding to villagers’ report about the presence of a group of communist insurgents in their community. The military said the rebels were allegedly coercing and extorting the farmers, forcing them to surrender portions of their harvest and demanding cash from residents, prompting the villagers to seek the help of authorities. The 8th ID said government forces will remain on heightened alert in the area to prevent the rebels from regrouping and to ensure the safety of local communities, particularly farmers in remote villages. Rex Espiritu

Tuao townsfolk enjoy ‘sweet’ Christmas treat THE town of Tuao in Cagayan bustles in festive atmosphere as SWEET Candyland Christmas Village opens its doors to the public, marked with the lighting of the giant Christmas tree, promising a sweet holiday experience for all. Set up at the municipal town hall Compound, the village is a stunning show of lights, colors, and joy that delights both kids and adults alike at Centro 2. Mayor William Mamba warmly welcomed everyone. “This signaled the Christmas festivitiesand the start of Christmas-themed displays, creativity, and teamwork to spread the Yuletide cheers withall of you.” Candyland Christmas Village showcases the town’s rich culture and traditions, making itan extraordinary celebration,” Tourism regional director Troy Alexander Miano said. Jessica M. Bacud

SPORTS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Blu Girls reassert softball dominance

The Filipinas are preparing for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, a pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

BANGKOK—The Philippine Blu Girls reasserted their dominance in women’s softball after edging out Singapore, 4-1, to win the gold in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games on Friday in Pathum Thani. The Blu Girls scored three runs in the sixth to take the lead before starting pitcher Royevel Palma completed an outstanding performance on the mound to capture a record-extending 11th gold at Queen Sirikit Baseball Stadium. Before this year’s edition, Softball was last held back home in 2019 at Clark, Pampanga. Their win came a day after the Blu Boys got back at Singapore for losing in 2019 to get the men’s softball gold. Nicole Hammoude scored on an error before Angelu Gabriel doubled to left to add two more during the decisive bottom half of the sixth, before Palma shut the door on Singapore in the seventh and final inning. Palma, a left-handed pitcher, struck out 10 batters while allowing four hits in a complete-game effort. She got some early trouble in the second inning when Singapore scored the first run courtesy of Wei En Lim’s single that scored Cacia Tan from second. But the Blu Girls tied it up in the third when Mary Joy Libaton reached home from second on an error.

Filipinas set sights on coming big battles after historic SEAG title run PH junior curling team C edges Spain

HONBURI—The triumphant Filipinas are looking to leverage their historic run at the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games as a crucial momentum-builder and conﬁdence-booster for their next major challenges. The Pinay booters made history for the Philippines by ending the duopoly of Vietnam and Thailand in women’s football, securing their SEA Games coronation with a thrilling 6-5 victory on penalties over Vietnam, following a scoreless draw after 120 minutes. “We’ll enjoy this one, we have

to enjoy this one because it’s been a long time coming for this country to win the SEA Games,” said coach Mark Torcaso. He added, “We’ll rest a little bit and then we have to get ready for the Asian Cup.” The squad is now focusing on the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, scheduled for March next year in Austra-

lia. This continental meet is critical as it serves as a pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. In the Asian Cup, the Filipinas are grouped with the host Boomers, South Korea, and Iran in Group A. To advance to the quarterfinals, they must finish in the Top 2. The four quarterfinal winners will earn a direct entry to the World Cup, while the four losers will contest two additional spots in play-in matches. Torcaso expressed strong belief in his determined squad of veterans and young talents, feeling that “more big things are coming.” He noted, “We saw how disciplined

our girls can be against good teams and I truly believe that we can do that against Australia or South Korea and Iran and I truly believe that we can do something special there as well and go to another World Cup.” Reflecting on the SEA Games performance, Torcaso concluded, “The most pleasing thing for me this competition (SEAG) was we showed that we’ve got a group of players here, both experienced and young players that are ready to fight for our country right from the start of the game to the end of the game, even penalty shootouts.”

Food poisoning cases got in way of triathletes

Kira Ellis displays her silver, having to compete by her lonesome after Raven Alcoseba was admitted to a hospital due to food poisoning.

RAYONG, Thailand—Kira Ellis wound up with a silver, while Kim Remolino and Fer Casares seized the silver and bronze at the close of the triathlon competitions of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games at the Laem Mae Phim Beach. The 19-year-old Ellis clocked one hour, one minute, 2.80 seconds, 51 seconds behind Indonesia’s Martina Ayu Pratiwi, who timed 1:00:11.22 at the 750m swim, 20km bike, and 5km racecourse. Cases of food poisoning, however, marred the Philippine campaign in the endurance races, with Ellis having to compete by her lonesome after Raven Alcoseba was admitted to a hospital due to the illness. “Gusto ng puso, ayaw ng katawan,” was how one of the members of the triathlon delegation described Alcoseba’s condition. Ellis admitted she too was not at her 100 percent in the race after staying overnight in the hospital after her gold medal in the women’s team relay and mixed team relay last Wednesday, before managing to cop a medal in the individual competition. Remolino and Caseres were also not spared from being ill as well as a couple of other competitors in the race. The Philippine Olympic Committee has already been informed of the matter by the Triathlon Association of the Philippines. “It was a crazy lead-up to the individual,” Ellis lamented. “I got food poisoning after

MEDAL TALLY AS OF 6 P.M., DECEMBER 19, 2025 COUNTRY

GOLD

SILVER

BRONZE

TOTAL

THAILAND

215

140

454

INDONESIA

103

116

305

VIETNAM

103

256

MALAYSIA

112

218

SINGAPORE

189

PHILIPPINES

141

251

MYANMAR

LAOS

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

TIMOR LESTE

the triathlon relays ,and I was in the hospital that night. We were kinda resting the day before this to try and get better. I had a day to rest because my teammate Raven, she got it last night which was unfortunate because she really should be here more than me. “She is our strongest athlete,” said Ellis of Alcoseba. “If she was here, I think things would have been a lot different. I’m really heartbroken that we couldn’t race together because I know how hard she works and we could do it together.” Considering the circumstances, Ellis still performed a great race. Ellis was in a three-woman lead group in the bike leg and was the first to arrive at the bike-to-run transition. She, however, encountered problems in racking her bike, leading to Pratiwi passing her, and Ellis being slapped with a 10-second penalty during that transition, losing more precious time. “I’m happy I just got to the start line, and did my best for the Philippines,” said Ellis. Remolino came out of the water in sixth place, but shaved off the gap, submitting the second-best and third best-time in the bike and run respectively. He clocked 55:02.73, with Rashif Amila Yaqin of Indonesia taking the gold with 54:36.84. Casares, on the other hand, came all the way from eighth after the swim, thanks to his well-known strengths in the bike and run.

By Peter Atencio TEAM Philippines continued to seek a slot in the 2026 World Junior Curling championships. The Dylan Skaggs-led squad repulsed Spain, 4-3, Thursday evening at the ongoing World Junior-B Curling Championships 2025 in Lohja, Finland. A stone scored in the ninth end gave the Philippine side its second win in five matches in Group A. “They are a solid 4 in their round-robin A division. They won against Slovakia and Spain,” said their coach Sheila Mariano, in an online interview with the Manila Standard. Members of team Philippines also includes Tyler Skaggs, Felix Hester and Eljiah Mojado. The win allowed the Philippines to bounce back from a 3-5 loss to Germany, which leads the bracket after staying unbeaten after five games. Turkey, which toppled the Philippines, 4-12, is behind at 5-1. So far, Italy, Norway, Scotland, Korea, Denmark (as hosts), Japan and Canada have already earned slots in the 2026 event. This time, the top three men’s teams and top three women’s teams will qualify in the Group A tournament in Tårnby, Denmark.

The Philippine junior men’s squad

Alas PH dethrone Thais, crowned beach volley queens PATTAYA—Alas Pilipinas Women joined Team Philippines’ hisrutawadee and Taravadee Naraphornrapat, 21-17, 21-15, to put Alas tory-makers in the 33rd Southeast in position to achieve the once Asian Games with their stunning unthinkable and bring the mighty dethroning of long-reigning beach Thais to their knees. volleyball queens Thailand in their To cheers of “Let’s Go, Philipown kingdom. pines,” from the Philippine delegaFaced with the gargantuan chaltion and small group of supporters lenge in their very first finals stint in the sandcourt of Jomtien Beach, against the seemingly unbeatable Villapando and Rodriguez went for eight-time champs, Alas 1’s Sisi Ronthe kill and finished off Tanaratdina and Bernadeth Pons and Alas 2’s tha Udomchavee and Rumpaipruet Sunny Villapando and Dij Rodriguez Numvong in three, 21-13, 17-21,15-6. responded with a fiery performance “Grabe, sobrang saya, lalongthat will forever be etched in Philiplalo na sa amin ni Pons na pang-lipine beach volley history. ma na namin ito and nakapag-gold Not only did they topple the Thais din kami sa international,” said in their own turf, they did so emRondina. phatically, sweeping the title match Prior to this, the Pinay sandup, 2-0. belles had a best finish of bronze, Rondina and Pons outdueled achieved twice in 2019 at home and Worapeerachayakorn Kongphopsa- Sunny Villapando and Dij Rodriguez celebrate their triumph. 2021 in Vietnam.

BUSINESS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

90TH ANNIVERSARY.

Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan (left) welcomes current and former government officials, development partners and stakeholders as agency celebrates the 90th anniversary of Philippine socioeconomic planning on Dec. 17, 2025 in Quezon City. During the event, postmaster general and Philippine Postal Corp. (PhilPost) chief executive Maximo Sta. Maria III (RIGHT) turns over to Balisacan and Executive Secretary Ralph Recto the stamp symbolizing inclusive and people-centered development, with visual elements depicting families, infrastructure, renewable energy and urban progress.

29.7% Business confidence index in Q4

23.2% Business confidence index in Q3

23.7% Next quarter confidence index

PEZA-approved investments rise 10.7% to P237.1b By Othel V. Campos

Business confidence rose in Q4 on holiday spending By Thony Rose Lesaca

HILIPPINE businesses grew more optimistic about the economy in the fourth quarter of 2025 as companies anticipated a surge in consumer spending during the holiday season, according to central bank data released Friday. The overall business confidence index rose to 29.7 percent from 23.2 percent in the third quarter, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said. However, it was down from 44.5 percent in the fourth quarter of 2024. A positive index means more respondents are optimistic than pessimistic. The latest Business Expectation Survey, which polled 1,521 firms

nationwide, indicated that a larger volume of businesses held a positive outlook for the current period. Aside from the holiday rush, respondents attributed the improved sentiment to higher productivity and operational efficiency. The rollout of new products and services along with a favorable inflation environment also bolstered confidence for the final months of the year.

However, the outlook for the coming months appeared less sanguine. The confidence index for the next quarter fell to 23.7 percent, while the 12-month outlook dipped to 40.4 percent. These figures represent a significant decline from the 49.5 percent and 48.1 percent recorded respectively during the third quarter survey. The BSP said the lingering effects of recent natural calamities and the negative impact of corruption allegations on investor sentiment weighed down the outlook for the upcoming periods. Despite the dip, the BSP noted that projected sentiment remained positive, reflecting continued optimism regarding the economy’s near-term prospects.

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) said Friday it approved P237.1 billion worth of investments in 2025, up 10.7 percent from P214.18 billion in 2024. The full-year approvals covering January to December included 307 new and expansion projects projected to generate $10.217 billion in exports and create 74,678 jobs. Of the total amount, P191.48 billion came from 38 big-ticket projects. December approvals enhanced the performance of the year after the board approved 26 projects during the month, up 62.5 percent from 16 approvals in December 2024. Total investments in December surged 136 percent to P29.84 billion from a year ago. Projected exports from December approvals reached $2.83 billion, a 261.43-percent jump, while projected employment climbed to 5,183 jobs, representing a 390.35-percent increase from the same month last year. Six big-ticket projects accounted for P24.107 billion of December investments, including three manufacturing projects, one domestic enterprise and two ecozone development ventures. Manufacturing led December approvals with 12 projects, followed by ecozone development with five and IT-BPM with three. Logistics and domestic enterprises recorded two projects each, while facilities and utilities accounted for one project apiece. Most December investments were located in Region IV-A with 18 projects, while the rest were spread across Regions III, I, V, VII and X, as well as the National Capital Region.

PH reports SDG 8 wins, vows for stronger decent work initiatives in US forum

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF WORK. Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Undersecretary Carmela I. Torres highlights the country’s commitment to providing decent work and economic growth in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as she delivered the Philippines’ intervention during the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) 2025, in New York City. Photo from the Office of Undersecretary Carmela I. Torres

ECHOING President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. administration’s push for sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready employment for all Filipinos, the Philippines, through the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), committed to strengthened policies and strategies to create more decent work and promote economic growth at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025, held recently in New York City. This is as DOLE Undersecretary Carmela I. Torres delivered the country’s intervention, highlighting the Philippines’ push to create better quality jobs and inclusive human resource development through the implementation of the Trabaho Para sa Bayan (TPB) Act. TPB Act is the country’s flagship multistakeholder initiative designed to generate quality jobs, stimulate inclusive and jobrich economic development, and ensure accessible, meaningful, productive, and resilient employment. “ T h e P h i l i p p i n e s r e a ff i r m s i t s commitment to SDG 8 through inclusive policy, social dialogue, and global cooperation. We are ready to work with partners to ensure no one is left behind in growth, in transition, and in the future of work,” Undersecretary Torres furthered.

PESOs effectively connect Filipinos to jobs, skills— DOLE

DOLE AT WORLD OF PES WEBINAR. WAPES Executive Secretariat Consultant Nicole Clobes (left) and Bureau of Local Employment Director Patrick P. Patriwirawan, Jr., (right) exchange insights on employment facilitation during the ‘World of PES’ international webinar conducted recently via Zoom. Photo by BLE PUBLIC Employment Service Offices (PESOs) play a vital role in connecting communities across the Philippines with vital job opportunities, skills training, and career services, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) highlighted at a global forum. In the latest World of PES international webinar organized by the World Association of Public Employment Services (WAPES), Bureau of Local Employment Director Patrick P. Patriwirawan, Jr., showcased the country’s ongoing reforms to modernize PESOs nationwide. According to the DOLE official, local job offices are now evolving from mere job-matching centers into “frontliners of opportunity,” which connect job seekers to employers, align education with market needs, and make digital tools

more accessible, especially in remote communities. Over the past four years, local PESOs have referred an average of 2.38 million job seekers annually, with placement rates hitting a record-high 94 percent last year. The number of job vacancies sourced also rose to 5.76 million in 2024, which reflects growing trust from employers. The webinar also tackled ongoing efforts to institutionalize PESOs in all local government units (LGUs). Of the 1,592 established PESOs nationwide, nearly 800 are now institutionalized, with dedicated plantilla positions, permanent funding, and local ordinances to ensure that even far-flung towns have reliable help for those looking for work, new skills, or career advice.

PROMOTING HARMONIOUS LABOR-MANAGEMENT RELATIONS. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the National Electrification Administration (NEA) conduct a capacity-building activity on collective bargaining negotiations for union and management representatives of electric cooperatives in the Central Luzon, Bicol, and Eastern Visayas regions recently in Quezon City. DOLE Undersecretary Atty. Benedicto Ernesto R. Bitonio, Jr., (left photo) leads the discussions on policy and legal frameworks on the rights to self-organization and collective bargaining and NEA’s regulatory authority over the electric cooperatives. Photo by Ali Creo, DOLE-IPS

DOLE, NEA lead 2nd batch of CBA negotiation training for electric cooperatives

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the National Electrification Administration (NEA) jointly conducted the second batch of the capacity-building activity on collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations for union and management representatives of electric cooperatives held on recently in Quezon City. The two-day training, participated in by 82 union and management representatives from 10 electric cooperatives in the Central Luzon, Bicol, and Eastern Visayas regions, supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s commitment to sustaining industrial peace through strong and harmonious labor-management relations. In his message delivered by Assistant Secretary Atty. Lennard Constantine C. Serrano, DOLE Secretary Bienvenido E.

Laguesma emphasized that the initiative aims to “cultivate a common understanding among workers and management” and ensure that the Labor Code and relevant regulatory frameworks are applied “in a mutually reinforcing way.” He reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to upholding freedom of association (FOA) and the right to collective bargaining as enshrined in the 1987 Constitution and the Labor Code of the Philippines. According to the Labor Secretary, these rights are further reinforced with the country’s ratification of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 87, upholding workers’ right to organize, and ILO Convention 98, encouraging voluntary employer-worker negotiations on certain terms and conditions of employment.

As a positive outcome of the initial training, Secretary Laguesma said that the Department noted a continued decline in the number of acrimonious negotiations in the industry, noting that several CBAs have been peacefully concluded since the program’s launch. Leading the discussion on labor relations was DOLE Undersecretary Atty. Benedicto Ernesto R. Bitonio, Jr., highlighting the policy and legal frameworks on the right to self-organize and collectively bargain, and NEA’s regulatory authority over the electric cooperatives. To further equip the participants, representatives from the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) discussed negotiation techniques, while NEA shared its policies and guidelines affecting CBA negotiations in electric cooperatives.

MALAYSIAN ENVOY COURTESY CALL.

(Top photo) The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), led by Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma (5th from right), receives a courtesy call from Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony (center in blue coat) and the rest of the Malaysian delegation to discuss ongoing and potential areas for Philippine-Malaysia cooperation. Held recently at the DOLE Central Office in Intramuros, Manila, the meeting centered on skills training for workers, workforce development, expansion of businesses and employment, return-towork programs, workplace reintegrations, disabilityinclusive employment policies, and other initiatives. The DOLE also sought the support of the Malaysian delegates for the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship in 2026. Joining Secretary Laguesma are Undersecretaries Carmela I. Torres, Benedicto Ernesto R. Bitonio, Jr., Felipe N. Egargo, Jr., and Warren M. Miclat. The Ambassador was joined by Deputy Chief of Mission Norjufri Nizar Edrus, Police Attache Supt. Al Malek Kasoh, Counsellors Nur Farahliza Putri Naaim Yazid and Sharul Anwar Adbul Latiff, Assistant Trade Attache Adhwa Azmil, and Assistant Tourism Attache Rohana Dahalan. Photos by Ali Creo/DOLE-IPS

Manila

Standard

TODAY

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

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BUSINESS CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

TOILET DONATION. Manila Water Foundation partners with Dexterton, a trusted distributor of luxury home furnishings, interior design essentials and bath fixtures, to provide toilets for public schools. Marking the partnership, Dexterton’s Solea launched an ‘Upgrade and Give a Gift of WASH’ campaign that directly supports Manila Water Foundation’s Lingap program that champions water access, sanitation and hygiene or WASH infrastructure in schools and public spaces. With every purchase of a Solea Velaris Plus Intelligent Plus, Dexterton will donate a water closet to a Manila Water Foundation partner school, supporting campus sanitation and health.

PERC acquires BCPG’s 40% stake in PetroWind Energy Y

By Alena Mae S. Flores

UCHENGCO-LED PetroEnergy Resources Corp. (PERC) said Friday it entered into a share purchase agreement with BCPG Wind Cooperatief U.A. to acquire BCPG’s 40 percent equity interest in PetroWind Energy Inc. (PWEI).

PERC and its 75 percent-owned subsidiary, PetroGreen Energy Corp. (PGEC), currently hold 20 percent and 40 percent direct ownership in PWEI, respectively. This gives PERC an effective 50 percent ownership interest in the wind energy firm. In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, PERC said that upon completion of the transaction, its effective ownership interest in PWEI will increase to 90 percent.

This will consist of 60 percent direct ownership and 30 percent indirect ownership through PGEC. The company stated the transaction represents the acquisition of the remaining non-controlling interest in PWEI and will not result in a change in control or consolidation status. “The acquisition is consistent with PERC’s strategy to simplify its ownership structure

and increase its direct economic participation in its renewable energy portfolio,” the company said. The agreement is subject to customary closing conditions, including the satisfaction of conditions precedent and applicable regulatory approvals. PWEI was incorporated March 6, 2013, to develop and operate the 50-megawatt Nabas Wind Power Project in Nabas-Malay, Aklan. The wind farm’s first phase, the 36-MW Nabas-1, was commissioned in June 2015. The 6.6-MW expansion, Nabas-2, began testing and commissioning this year.

PSEi slumps below 6,000 as business confidence wanes By Jenniffer B. Austria

Industry leaders discuss the future of the Philippine energy landscape during a panel session at the 2nd MAP Energy CEO Forum 2025 on Dec. 1, 2025 in Makati City. Joining the event are (from left) Energy Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella, First Gen Corp. chief customer engagement officer Carlo Vega, Vivant Energy Corp. vice president and head of off-grid solutions Erickson Omamalin, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, Prime Energy Resources Development B.V. president and chief executive Donnabel Kuizon Cruz, National Power Corp. president and chief executive Jericho Nograles and LNGPH chief executive Yari Miralao.

DOE, MAP sign deal to prioritize natural gas THE Department of Energy and the Management Association of the Philippines signed a three-year Joint Energy Action Agenda on Dec. 1, 2025 to accelerate the country’s energy plan and prioritize indigenous natural gas as a strategic anchor for the power grid. The agreement, which covers 2026 to 2029, marks the first formal coordination between the government and the private sector to implement the Philippine Energy Plan 2023–2050. The initiative seeks to close supply gaps, strengthen infrastructure and manage electricity costs to ensure reliable and sustainable power. Under the agenda, indigenous natural gas is recognized as a stabilizing component of the national power mix. Officials said gas provides essential baseload support as the country scales up its renewable energy capacity. Prime Energy president and chief executive Donnabel Kuizon-Cruz, who led the technical working group for the agenda, said indigenous natural gas remains a strategic anchor of the energy system. Cruz noted that gas helps keep power secure and affordable

for households and businesses while the country expands renewable resources. Prime Energy is the operator of Service Contract 38 and is undertaking the $893-million Malampaya Phase 4 drilling and exploration program. The project aims to extend the life of the Malampaya gas resource, which supplies about 20 percent of the power needs for Luzon, the country’s most populous island. At its peak, the field supplied up to 40 percent of Luzon’s energy requirements. The joint agenda also focus on improving access to natural gas for a wider range of consumers and delivering electricity to both major demand centers and off-grid communities. Industry leaders said gas complements domestic resources while exploration for new indigenous supplies continues. Beyond indigenous production, the partnership aims to strengthen market frameworks and midstream infrastructure. The collaboration follows a series of roundtable discussions between industry leaders and the government to address national goals for energy accessibility and resiliency.

THE Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi), the country’s main stock barometer, fell below the 6,000 level Friday as business and consumer confidence declined amid corruption concerns. The 30-company PSEi ended the week at 5,920.87, down 110.61 points, or 1.83 percent, despite improving global risk sentiment. The broader all shares index closed at 3,397.72, down 49.24 points, or 1.43 percent. The peso depreciated to 58.7 to the U.S. dollar on Friday from 58.555 on Thursday. Analysts said the market was dragged down by a selloff across all major indices. Services led the decline, plunging 3.26 percent, followed by financials at 1.76 percent and mining and oil at 1.36 percent. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas reported that business confidence dropped to 23.7 percent in the latest survey, down from 49.5 percent in the previous period, due to corruption issues. Consumer confidence also turned negative because of inflation concerns. Investors ignored a rally on Wall Street, which rose after a mixed inflation report raised expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts. Trading was active, with value turnover reaching P7.38 billion. Decliners outnumbered gainers 110 to 65, while 75 stocks remained unchanged. Foreign investors were net sellers for the day, with outflows totaling P103.38 million. DigiPlus Interactive Corp. was the day’s top index gainer, jumping 7.89 percent to P16.40. International Container Terminal Services Inc. was the main index laggard, falling 4.6 percent to P549.50.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

BUSINESS

B3 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

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MPTC bares toll-free hours for holidays M By Darwin G. Amojelar

ETRO Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) announced Friday it will provide free passage on its expressways during select hours over the Christmas and New Year holidays to ease travel for motorists. TPB AWARDS. Medardo Macaraig (second from left), Philippine ambassador to Singapore, and Renee Gayle Chua (center), Second Secretary and Consul, Head of Cultural Section of the Philippine Embassy in Singapore, pose with Travel Daily Media publisher Tim Charlton (left) after receiving Tourism Promotions Board Philippines’ (TPB) awards. The awarding ceremony was held on Nov. 25 at the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore.

Joy-Nostalg unit delivers community support projects By Alena Mae S. Flores JIN-NAVITAS Solaris Inc., the renewable energy arm of the JoyNostalg Group, officially turned over Community Assurance Support (CAS) projects to residents of Pasinaya Homes Prime Central in Naic, Cavite. The event marked a milestone for the NING*NING model, a worldfirst initiative that generates gridconnected, utility-scale solar power through socialized housing rooftops. The program translates energy progress into direct, sustained support for the host community. Implemented in partnership with Extraordinary Enclaves and the JoyNostalg Foundation, the initiative reinforces Solaris’ commitment to ensuring clean energy development

creates shared value. Under the NING*NING model, the CAS is a contract-anchored package of community benefits provided annually in exchange for rooftop use, enabled through a longterm usufruct agreement. It includes enhanced safety measures and community improvements, ensuring that while solar power feeds the grid, tangible value flows back to homeowners. The ceremony marks the first turnover under a 50-year term. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted NING*NING as a model for advancing renewable energy alongside inclusive development during his recent visit to the site. “This is our way of appreciation and of showing that we are serious,” said Jacinto Ng Jr., group executive

officer of Joy-Nostalg Group. “This fulfills promises beyond contractual obligation. Our goal is not just returns, but bettering lives — here in the community, across the country and ultimately for the world.” The CAS projects address priority needs identified by the community, including motorcycle patrols, radios, CCTV systems, and other safety enhancements, health and education– including daycare improvements, school supplies, and health center upgrades, and community and leisure– including clubhouse enhancements, play areas, and programs that strengthen community life. Jose Alfonso Miras, president and chief executive of Jin-Navitas Solaris, emphasized that the model succeeds because homeowners are treated as partners.

The toll-free initiative will run from 10 p.m. on Dec. 24 until 6 a.m. on Dec. 25, and again from 10 p.m. on Dec. 31 until 6 a.m. on Jan. 1. The waiver applies to the North Luzon Expressway, Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway, NLEX Connector, Manila Cavite Expressway and Cavite Laguna Expressway. To manage the anticipated surge in holiday traffic, MPTC has suspended all roadworks and lane closures from 6 a.m. on Dec. 19 until 12 p.m. on Jan. 5. The suspension excludes emergency safety repairs. The

Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and MPTC chairman Manuel Pangilinan

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Manila

Standard

transparent, and documented distribution.

TODAY

SECTION V. REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Certificate of RSBSA Enrollment and Registration; Certification or endorsement as an accredited farmers’ group or cooperative issued by the CDA, SEC, DA–CSO, or DOLE, as applicable; Land Ownership Document (must match declared farmland details in RSBSA); and Verification report by the Provincial and Regional HVCDP Focal Person confirming the age, condition, and location of mango trees.

MEMORANDUM CIRCULARCIRCULAR MEMORANDUM No. 48 No. _______ Series of 2025

3. 4.

SUBJECT:

SECTION VI. CRITERIA FOR THE IDENTIFICATION OF SITES

Series of 2025

GUIDELINES ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MANGO REHABILITATION PROGRAM FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024

GUIDELINES ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MANGO REHABILITATION WHEREAS, the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for Fiscal Year 2024 provides budgetary support for FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024 agricultural programs of PROGRAM the Department of Agriculture to support its mandate of promoting agricultural

Target sites shall be identified based on the following criteria, validated and certified by the Regional HVCDP Focal Person:

development and ensuring food security. WHEREAS, a locally-funded project entitled Mango Rehabilitation Program was included in the FY 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA), with an allocation of Fifty Million Pesos (PhP 50,000,000.00), to WHEREAS, General Appropriations Actaimed (GAA) Fiscal Year 2024 provides budgetary support mango farmersthe through targeted interventions at for increasing productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness. support for agricultural programs of the Department of Agriculture to support its mandate of WHEREAS, the initiative seeks to development empower local mango farmers providing knowledge, resources, and promoting agricultural and ensuring foodby security. tools to optimize their orchard management practices. WHEREAS, to enhancea locally-funded productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness, mango farmerswas shall be provided WHEREAS, project entitled Mango Rehabilitation Program included in the with targeted interventions in tree fertilization and technology demonstrations for improved farm management, 2024and General Appropriations particularly FY in pests diseases management.Act (GAA), with an allocation of Fifty Million Pesos (PhP 50,000,000.00), to support mango farmers through targeted interventions aimed at increasing NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the provisions mentioned above, this Memorandum Circular is hereby promulgated to serve as guidelines for the of the Mango Rehabilitation Program. productivity, sustainability, andimplementation competitiveness.

SUBJECT:

Production Performance: Sites must be among the top or potential mango-producing areas as identified in the Philippine Mango Industry Roadmap 2021–2025.

Pest and Disease Management Priority: Sites experiencing recurring or high incidence of pests and diseases shall be prioritized to address productivity losses. Rehabilitation efforts in these areas will focus on implementing integrated pest and disease management practices to restore tree vigor and improve overall orchard health.

WHEREAS, the initiative seeks to empower local mango farmers by providing knowledge,

SECTION I.resources, INTRODUCTION and tools to optimize their orchard management practices.

Mango remains one of to theenhance country’s most valuable fruit crops and major contributormango to the farmers livelihood of WHEREAS, productivity, sustainability, and acompetitiveness, shall Filipino farmers. However, thetargeted Philippine Mango Industry Roadmap 2021–2025 reveals that production has be provided with interventions in tree fertilization and technology demonstrations for been steadily declining due to aging and unproductive trees, poor orchard management, and increasing pest improved farmMany management, particularly pests and management. and disease infestations. mango farms are also in burdened by diseases high production costs and limited access to quality inputs and technical support, resulting in low and unstable yields.

NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the provisions mentioned above, this Memorandum Circular INTRODUCTION

The DA-BPI clarified that there is no fixed monetary value assigned to each farmer-beneficiary, as the assistance from the Department of Agriculture (DA) is provided in the form of fertilizers and flower inducers. The allocation per farmer shall be based on the number of mango trees owned by each member, as determined and validated by the FCA.

Through the Program, the Department Agriculture andvaluable the Bureau Plant Industry aim to restore the to vigor Mango remains one of the of country’s most fruitofcrops and a major contributor the of mango trees, increase yield and quality, and improve the competitiveness of Philippine mangoes in both livelihood of Filipino farmers.aligned However, Mango Industry Roadmap domestic and international markets—fully withthe the Philippine strategies and objectives outlined in the2021–2025 Philippine reveals that production has been steadily declining due to aging and unproductive trees, poor Mango Industry Roadmap 2021–2025. To enhance the productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness of mango farms in the Philippines by providing targeted interventions and support to local mango farmers.

To address these long-standing issues, the Roadmap underscores the need to rehabilitate

Specific Objectives: existing mango orchards and adopt improved production technologies that restore

productivity and fruit quality. The Mango Rehabilitation Program supports this goal by Fertilizer Provision: To provide complete fertilizers that supply essential nutrients to mango trees, providing flower inducers, and technical assistance to mango farmers across key improvingfertilizers, tree health, fruit yield, and overall farm productivity; 2. producing Provision regions. of FlowerThese Inducers: To provideare flower inducers that promote synchronized and interventions designed to strengthen nutrient management, enhanced flowering in mango trees, leading to increased fruit set and higher yields; synchronized flowering, and enhance management practices. 3. promote Provision of Training and Capacity Building: Tofarm conduct training programs on Integrated Cultural 1.

Management, modernized farm operations, and Integrated Pest Management-Insecticide Resistance Management, equipping farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to optimize their orchard management practices.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) Region I – Ilocos Region Region II – Cagayan Valley Region III – Central Luzon Region IV-A – CALABARZON Region VI – Western Visayas Region IX – Zamboanga Peninsula Region XII – SOCCSKSARGEN

The selection of the eight pre-identified areas was based on the Philippine Mango Industry Roadmap 2021–2025, which identifies mango tree rehabilitation through pruning and fertilization as a key strategy to improve productivity and sustain yield. These areas were chosen for their potential to demonstrate the effectiveness of proper rehabilitation practices, consistent with the roadmap’s goal of promoting long-term orchard management and farmer adoption of regular tree maintenance and fertilization to enhance the overall competitiveness of the mango industry.

Location within a Designated Mango Cluster Area: Farms must be within officially recognized mango cluster zones, certified by the Regional High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) Coordinator.

Membership in a Recognized FCA: Beneficiaries must be RSBSA-registered and active members of a recognized Mango Growers Cooperative or Association duly registered with the appropriate government agency.

Eligibility of Individual Farmers: Individual farmers may qualify for assistance only if they are active members of an accredited Mango Growers Association and meet all other eligibility requirements.

2.0 kg

Complete fertilizer (14-14-14)

3.0 kg

Complete fertilizer (14-14-14)

11-15

5.0 kg

Complete fertilizer (14-14-14)

More than 20

10.0 kg

Complete fertilizer (14-14-14)

Production Season

Ca(NO3)2 per 200L Drum

% Concentration

Off-Season On-Season

5-6 3-4

2.5-3.0 1.5-2.0

Spray the canopy up to the point of drift using a fine mist. If rainfall is experienced 4-6 hours after spraying, re-spraying is recommended not beyond three (3) days after, using ½ dose of the recommended rate of inducer to avoid the phytotoxic effect of chemicals. C.

Composition of the Monitoring Committee The Monitoring Committee shall be composed of personnel from the DA–Bureau of Plant Industry (DABPI) and the DA–Regional Field Office–High Value Crops Development Program (DA-RFO HVCDP). The DA-BPI shall issue a memorandum designating the composition of the monitoring team.

Flower Inducer (Calcium Nitrate)

Total

CAR

425,000.00

850,000.00

The Secretariat shall be responsible for administrative coordination and documentation, while the Members shall assist the Head and Secretariat in the preparation and finalization of the monitoring report.

6,100,000.00

12,200,000.00

Data Gathering and Coordination:

1,050,000.00

2,100,000.00

The Monitoring Committee shall collect necessary data in close coordination with the Farmers’ Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs). This includes, but is not limited to, information on the beneficiaries’ background, interventions applied on the farm, and the quantity of agricultural inputs received.

6,525,000.00

13,050,000.00

2,050,000.00

4,100,000.00

1,850,000.00

3,700,000.00

1,250,000.00

2,500,000.00

1,250,000.00

2,500,000.00

TOTAL

20,500,000.00

41,000,000.00

Procurement and Delivery: All transactions shall be undertaken in accordance with Republic Act No. 12009 (New Government Procurement Act), its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), and other applicable government procurement policies and guidelines. The DA-RFO HVCDP Focal Person shall supervise and coordinate the delivery of fertilizers and flower inducers, in close collaboration with the Property Office and under the monitoring of the Internal Audit Unit of the Regional Field Office. The DA-BPI shall provide technical and administrative guidance throughout the process to ensure compliance with applicable regulations. Deliveries shall be made at locations designated and identified by the DA-RFO, with prior coordination with the DA-BPI. All delivery, loading, and unloading activities must be properly documented through delivery and inspection reports, photo documentation, and geotagging to ensure transparency, traceability, and audit readiness.

Supplier Accountability: Awarded suppliers or contractors shall be held accountable for any damage to or delay in the delivery of agricultural inputs, subject to the imposition of liquidated damages and applicable administrative sanctions in accordance with Republic Act No. 12009, its IRR and other relevant government procurement policies.

Size of Orchard: Priority will be given to smallholder farmers managing one (1) to five (5) hectares of mango orchards.

Commitment to Capacity Building: Beneficiaries must attend at least eighty percent (80%) of scheduled training sessions under the Technology Training Package. Attendance and completion shall be validated through post-training evaluation.

Suppliers are required to strictly adhere to the prescribed quality specifications and delivery schedules as stipulated in the contract. Any failure to meet these requirements—unless justified by force majeure or other circumstances beyond the supplier’s control—shall be grounds for the imposition of appropriate penalties and sanctions.

Value and Scope of Assistance: Beneficiaries may receive one or more components — fertilizer provision, flower inducer provision, and/ or capacity building — subject to compliance with eligibility criteria and availability of program resources.

Clarification on Distribution:

7-8 9-10

The complete fertilizer and flower inducer should be: ● Complete Fertilizer: 14-14-14 formulation, in 50-kg bags, inorganic type. ● Flower Inducer (Calcium Nitrate-based): must have a valid Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Certificate of Product Registration and Certificate of Analysis, and must comply with all DA and PNP clearance requirements. ● Bags shall be printed with the DA logo (3 inches in diameter) and labeled with “DA GOVERNMENT PROPERTY” and “NOT FOR SALE.” ● 50 kilograms per bag, ● have PNP Clearance for Mango Flower Inducer, and ● have an attached certificate of product registration from FPA, and an attached certificate of analysis from the supplier.

The delivery of agricultural inputs shall be supervised by the Regional Property Office and the DA-RFO HVCDP Focal Person, with oversight from the Internal Audit Unit of the concerned Regional Field Office. The DA-BPI shall provide technical support as needed to ensure compliance with quality and procedural standards.

Farmer Cooperatives and Associations shall not exercise sole discretion in apportioning inputs among members; they shall strictly adhere to the distribution guidelines issued by the DA-BPI, to ensure equitable,

Complete fertilizer (14-14-14)

The applications are done via split application, wherein two (2) kg of NPK mixture are being applied after harvest or immediately after pruning, while another two (2) kg of NPK mixture are being applied four (4) months after pruning or before flower induction.

*Table 1. Amount of Fund Transfer per Region

The assistance shall be provided in-kind (fertilizers and flower inducers). The allocation per individual farmer-beneficiary shall be based on the number of productive and rehabilitated trees owned or managed, in accordance with a uniform ratio prescribed by DA-BPI.

Type of Fertilizer

0.5 – 1.0 kg

Complete Fertilizer

To ensure fair, transparent, and efficient allocation of assistance, beneficiaries must meet the following criteria: Age of Mango Trees: Mango trees must be at least five (5) years old, classified as unproductive or poorly managed, and in need of rehabilitation.

Rate of Fertilizer Application Per Tree

5-6

Region

SECTION IV. CRITERIA FOR ELIGIBILITY OF BENEFICIARIES

Age of Trees (Years)*

Fund Source: The DA-BPI shall transfer the allocated funds to the concerned DA-RFOs through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) (see Table 1). The funds shall be utilized exclusively for the procurement of the identified interventions, such as complete fertilizers and flower inducers.

Program Coverage and Area Selection

The eight (8) pre-selected regions, consistent with the said Roadmap, are as follows:

Nutrient Management Standard on Mango: The following fertilizer recommendations are adopted from the Package of Technologies developed by the BPI-Guimaras NCRDPSC, based on the study of Magat, S. S. (Crop Nutrition and Fertilization Management of Selected Tropical Fruit Crops).

The Committee shall be composed of a Head, a Secretariat, and three (3) Members representing the Office of the Assistant Director, the Crop Pest Management Division, and the Planning and Management Office. The Head of the team must hold at least a supervisory position or be a Section Head from the Crop Research and Production Support Division.

SECTION III. SCOPE

The Mango Rehabilitation Program for FY 2024 shall cover mango farms and farmers registered under the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) and who are members of mango Farmers’ Cooperatives or Associations (FCAs) located in mango-producing regions identified in the Philippine Mango Industry Roadmap 2021–2025.

* Rehabilitation of trees through fertilizer application can be done for trees aged five (5) years and above. Note: Apply half (½) of the recommended rate at the onset of the rainy season and the remaining half (½) at the offset of the rainy season, following the standard schedule below. Table 2. Basis of Fertilizer Application (Crop Removal Method, Assuming 10 T/ha or 100 kg/tree Yield and 20% Absorption Efficiency)

To ensure transparency, equity, and accountability in the distribution process, the chosen scheme of each FCA must be properly documented and submitted for review and approval by the DA-Regional Field Office (DA-RFO) prior to implementation, in accordance with DA distribution guidelines and aligned with audit rules and regulations.

orchard management, and increasing pest and disease infestations. Many mango farms are also SECTION II. OBJECTIVES burdened by high production costs and limited access to quality inputs and technical support, A. General Objective: resulting in low and unstable yields. B.

Coordination: The DA-BPI and the DA-RFO HVCDP shall be responsible for coordinating directly with the FCAs to ensure efficient distribution of fertilizers and flower inducers, with both the DA-BPI and the DA-RFO HVCDP as the oversight offices in streamlining the process in compliance with relevant DA regulations. Furthermore, BPI provides overall policy and technical supervision, while DA-RFO HVCDP handles direct implementation and field-level coordination.

Compliance and Best Practices: The DA-BPI, through the Guimaras National Crop Research, Development, and Production Support Center (NCRDPSC), shall provide technical guidance and support to ensure the proper and efficient use of fertilizers and flower inducers. Fertilizer application shall adhere to recommended nutrient management standards to maximize productivity while minimizing negative environmental impacts, in line with sustainable mango production practices.

Table 1. Recommended Rate of Fertilizer Application per Mango Tree

Coordination and Distribution of Agri-Inputs 1.

These guidelines serve as a reference for fertilizer application under the mango rehabilitation and development program.

SECTION VII. IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENT

hereby promulgated tothe serve as guidelines for the theneed implementation of the mango Mango To addressisthese long-standing issues, Roadmap underscores to rehabilitate existing orchards and adopt improved production technologies that restore productivity and fruit quality. The Mango Rehabilitation Program. Rehabilitation Program supports this goal by providing fertilizers, flower inducers, and technical assistance to mango farmers across key producing regions. These interventions are designed to strengthen nutrient management, promote synchronized flowering, and enhance farm management practices. SECTION I.

A site-specific Mango Challenge Protocol shall be implemented through participatory technology development, with a particular focus on the effective control of Cecid fly infestation. This initiative aims to promote the proper and judicious use of crop protection chemicals in accordance with Integrated Resistance Management (IRM) principles and existing Department of Agriculture regulations.

Site Suitability for Mango Rehabilitation: Sites must be located within areas conducive to mango production, considering factors such as soil fertility, drainage, temperature, and rainfall distribution. Priority shall be given to existing orchards with declining productivity due to aging trees or poor management but possessing potential for rejuvenation through proper rehabilitation interventions.

Capacity Building: The DA-BPI and the DA-RFO HVCDP team, in coordination with the concerned FCAs, shall provide technical assistance and capacity-building support to farmer-beneficiaries. This assistance shall include training and advisory services on the proper application of fertilizers and flower inducers, Integrated Cultural Management (ICM), Integrated Pest Management– Insecticide Resistance Management (IPM-IRM), and adherence to Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) standards.

Eligible farmers or FCAs must submit the following: 1. 2.

company also deployed additional traffic, toll and emergency medical response teams to ensure all lanes in major plazas remain open. Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and MPTC chairman Manuel Pangilinan said the goal is to help motorists spend less time on the road and more time with their families. He noted that the toll-free period is a way of giving back to the public while providing a safer and more convenient travel experience. Operational adjustments include the activation of express counterflow lanes on NLEX for Class 1 RFID-equipped vehicles, depending on traffic density. These lanes will be available for northbound travel on Fridays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and for southbound travel on Sundays starting at 2 p.m. and Mondays from 5 a.m. Other measures implemented by the toll operator include barrier-up operations at plazas and the provision of free towing services for stalled vehicles to prevent congestion during the peak travel period.

This data collection process is essential to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of the program, ensure that objectives are met, and support transparency and accountability in implementation. 2. Monitoring and Evaluation: The Monitoring Committee shall be responsible for evaluating, monitoring, and reporting the progress and outcomes of the program in close coordination with the FCAs. The Committee shall gather and analyze data to assess the program’s impact and ensure that its objectives and performance targets are met. The process shall include regular field inspections, beneficiary feedback collection, and data analysis, in accordance with the Department of Agriculture’s Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework. 3. Submission of reports: The Monitoring Team shall submit a post-travel report within five (5) working days after the conduct of the activity. The report shall be submitted to the Crop Research and Production Support Division (CRPSD) for review and consolidation. All generated monitoring reports shall be evaluated and consolidated by the DA–Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI). Upon completion, the DA-BPI shall submit the consolidated report to the Office of the Secretary and the Special Projects Coordination and Management Assistance Division (SPCMAD), with a copy furnished to the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) National Program Management Office (NPMO) as the concerned office for high-value commodities, such as mango. The submission of consolidated reports to the concerned offices shall be done on a quarterly basis. SECTION VIII. SUSTAINABILITY PLAN To ensure the continuity and long-term impact of the project, the concerned DA–Regional Field Offices (DARFOs), in coordination with the High Value Crops Development Program – National Program Management Office (HVCDP-NPMO), shall incorporate the Mango Rehabilitation Program into their Work and Financial Plan (WFP) as part of their Annual Budget Proposal, consistent with the Philippine Mango Industry Roadmap and subject to the availability and allocation of funds. SECTION IX. IMPLEMENTATION Implementing offices are enjoined to ensure proper alignment with funding availability, and the implementation timeline of the program shall coincide with the validity period of its designated funding source. Accordingly, allocations sourced from the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for Fiscal Year 2024 shall be implemented and fully utilized not later than December 31, 2025.

Distribution: Recipients of complete fertilizers and flower inducers shall be those who are registered in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) as mango farmers and are active members of duly recognized mango growers’ associations or cooperatives within the identified project sites.

SECTION X. EFFECTIVITY This Memorandum Circular shall take effect immediately following the completion of its publication in the Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines or in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines, and filing with the Office of the National Administrative Register (ONAR) at the University of the Philippines Law Center.

Recipient Documentation: The list of beneficiaries shall be validated and documented by the DA-RFO HVCDP Focal Person and submitted to the DA-BPI for consolidation and reporting to the concerned DA Central Office units. Documentation shall include the beneficiaries’ RSBSA registration numbers, association membership, and proof of receipt of assistance, ensuring transparency, accountability, and traceability in the distribution process.

Done this 12th day of December, 2025.

Technical Support

FRANCISCO P. TIU LAUREL, JR. Secretary

BUSINESS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

PSALM closes P36.3-b sale of CBK hydroelectric plants By Alena Mae S. Flores STATE-RUN Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. (PSALM) said Friday it closed the sale of the 96.64-megawatt CalirayaBotocan-Kalayaan (CBK) hydroelectric power plants, representing a major milestone in the government’s privatization of energy assets. The Thunder Consortium, composed of Aboitiz Renewables Inc., Sumitomo Corp. and Electric Power Development Co. Ltd., acquired the Laguna-based renewable energy complex through its project company, Cleanergy 9 Power Inc. The consortium emerged as the highest bid-

der with an offer of P36.266 billion. The transaction falls under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), a law designed to reform the Philippine power sector through privatization and increased competition. PSALM officials said the proceeds would be used to settle the agency’s financial obligations, which is expected to reduce stranded costs for electricity consumers and reinforce the stability of the power sector. Department of Energy Undersecretary Sharon Garin said during the closing ceremony that the deal reflects a government direction that is reform-minded and investor-friendly.

AMRO FORUM. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) deputy governor Zeno Ronald Abenoja (second from left) serves as a panelist during the 4th ASEAN+3 Economic Cooperation and Financial Stability Forum (AMRO Forum) on Nov. 25, 2025 in Hong Kong, China. Joining him in the session are (from left) Daniel Rees, head of Central Bank Cooperation, Bank for International Settlements; Min Soo Kwoon, deputy governor, Bank of Korea; Alicia Garcia-Herrero, chief economist for Asia Pacific, Natixis; and Arup Ghosh, chief rates strategist for ASEAN and Korea, Standard Chartered Bank.

PCC approves MPIC-Franklin Baker deal IN BRIEF T By Othel V. Campos

HE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) said Friday it approved the acquisition by Metro Pacific Agro Ventures Inc. of all outstanding shares in Franklin Baker Company of the Philippines after a review found the deal would not stifle market competition.

Metro Pacific Agro Ventures, a wholly owned subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corp., is an integrated agri-food company involved in dairy, fresh produce and coconut-

based products. Through its affiliate Axelum Resources Corp., the company operates a coconut production facility in Medina, Misamis Oriental. Franklin Baker manufactures and

exports value-added coconut products including desiccated coconut, coconut water, coconut cream and coconut milk. The company maintains production facilities in San Pablo, Laguna and Santa Cruz, Davao del Sur to supply a global customer base. The PCC said its Mergers and Acquisitions Office initially elevated the transaction to a phase 2 review due to concerns over potential monopsony effects, or a market situation with only one buyer, regarding the procurement of mature raw coconuts in Mindanao. It said, however, a detailed assessment and field missions in Northern

Mindanao and the Davao Region showed that the transaction is unlikely to substantially lessen competition. The regulator said it determined that the presence of alternative buyers, particularly copra manufacturers that command a significant share of demand, ensures farmers retain multiple selling options. The commission said it also found that the global scale of coconut product manufacturing constrains the ability of companies to raise prices or reduce quality. The market is characterized by numerous competing suppliers and price-sensitive international buyers, it said.

American chamber lauds House for approving Blue Economy Act THE American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) commended the House of Representatives for passing the proposed Blue Economy Act, a landmark measure designed to establish a national framework for the sustainable governance of the country’s marine and coastal resources. The chamber described the legislation as a vital step in recognizing the Philippines’ maritime domain as a strategic economic and environmental asset. The bill seeks to promote inclusive growth and climate resilience across oceanbased industries while ensuring the protection of marine ecosystems and coastal communities. It said the legislation advances the responsible development of

coastal areas, aligning with the administration’s goal of revitalizing the maritime economy. AmCham said it has advocated for the Blue Economy agenda across several Congresses through policy dialogues and position papers. AmCham officials said the group believes a well-governed blue economy is essential to strengthening Philippine competitiveness and attracting quality investment. The group noted that the reform would create sustainable, highvalue jobs, particularly for those living in island communities. The chamber also welcomed the bill’s focus on coordinated governance and science-based policymaking. By mobilizing public and private investment, the measure aims to unlock the potential of various oceanbased sectors. Othel V. Campos

managed by the Aklan Electric Cooperative. NGCP said in a statement it is addressing recurring outages on an overhead bypass line that was built as a temporary fix for a damaged section near the Caticlan Airport. Investigations by the grid operator identified water wave splash and salt spray corrosion as the primary causes of recent failures. To mitigate these environmental factors,

RELIABLE WATER. Households continue to enjoy clean running water this Christmas as Manila Water keeps 24/7 service flowing through the holidays. Manila Water is assuring its more than 7.8 million customers across the east zone and Rizal that they will continue to enjoy uninterrupted water service throughout. The company says it has strengthened its operational readiness to support the expected increase in household consumption as families prepare for gatherings, celebrations, and out‑of‑town travel this festive season.

NGCP constructed an adjusted bypass line away from the seashore that is scheduled for energization this month. The company said it plans to undertake a full reconductoring of the affected transmission line. Due to a lack of spare materials from the electric cooperative, NGCP procured the necessary supplies and targets completion of the work by March 2026.

The ownership change stems from a November 2024 decision by the regulator to reclassify the Caticlan-Unidos 69kV line from a sub-transmission asset to a transmission facility. The decision followed an acknowledgment by the electric cooperative during a September meeting with the Department of Energy that it was unable to finance required repairs after the line was damaged. Alena Mae S. Flores

DA, SRA extend sugar import moratorium

CACAO SEEDLINGS. Security Bank Corp., together with BUSOE and Angat

Pinas, provides cacao seedlings, poultry farming kits and wilderness rescue initiatives in Aklan province. In line with its mission to enrich lives, empower businesses and build communities sustainably, Security Bank worked to strengthen institutions, expand opportunities and deliver programs that create lasting progress across the Philippines. From providing cacao seedlings to 40 farmers in Aklan and mentoring 980 families to aiding 661 disaster-hit families, Security Bank strengthened livelihoods nationwide.

PHILIPPINE National Bank (PNB) has signed a strategic partnership with Discovery Capital Finance Corp. (DCFC) to expand financing access for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the country. Under the agreement, PNB will provide a loan facility to DCFC to increase the latter’s funding capacity for small business lending. The partnership seeks to address persistent financing gaps faced by small businesses, particularly those with limited collateral or short credit histories. The initiative aims to support economic growth and job creation in local communities by combining the balance sheet strength of PNB with the specialized, localized SME financing operations of DCFC. Funds from the facility will be used primarily to support working capital loans for DCFC clients to finance inventory, fulfill contracts, acquire equipment and manage cash flow. DCFC president Diosdado Chua Salang Jr. said the agreement is a clear signal of the company’s commitment to financial inclusion for the underserved business community. Salang noted that partnering with institutions like PNB allows the firm to effectively amplify its reach beyond its branches and ensure capital flows into regional economies. Jenniffer B. Austria

DOE deploys mobile solar units to Pag-asa school

NGCP takes over Caticlan-Unidos line to address Aklan power outages THE National Grid Corp. of the Philippines said Friday it assumed ownership, operation and maintenance of the Caticlan-Unidos 69kV line following a directive from the Energy Regulatory Commission to address chronic operational issues and power reliability in Aklan province. The transition allows the power transmission provider to immediately implement corrective measures on the asset, which was previously

PNB, Discovery Capital to expand SME lending

THE Department of Agriculture and Sugar Regulatory Administration have extended a moratorium on sugar imports through the end of the current harvest, citing stronger domestic production and the need to prioritize local farmers. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the policy, which was first announced on Oct. 15, may be extended through the end of the milling season or until Dec. 2026. The decision will depend on actual stock levels following an improvement in raw sugar output last year. Tiu Laurel said he instructed Sugar Regulatory Administration administrator Pablo Azcona to monitor local refinery production and provide regular updates to maintain an accurate picture of standard and premium-

grade refined sugar stocks. Refined sugar in the country is currently produced entirely from locally grown raw sugar. The agencies are also finalizing a long-delayed regulatory framework governing molasses imports to further safeguard domestic producers. Under the proposed rules, molasses users will be required to first purchase and withdraw locally produced molasses. Only after fulfilling these requirements, and based on a pre-determined ratio, will imports be allowed subject to Sugar Regulatory Administration approval. To help stabilize prices and support farmers, the government will implement a buying program for raw sugar where purchases are held as buffer stock for up to 90 days. Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Energy deployed a solar-powered mobile energy system to Pag-asa Integrated School on Pag-asa Island to provide reliable electricity to one of the country’s most remote off-grid communities. The initiative marks the second mobile energy project of the department in 2025 as part of an effort to energize off-grid islands. The first system was donated to Balabac Central School in Palawan to provide uninterrupted power for education and essential community services. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin and National Power Corp. president Jericho Jonas Nograles led the turnover of the unit to the school. “This mobile energy system helps make sure no child is left behind,” Garin said. She noted that the technology changes how education functions on the island by ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment without disruption. The mobile units are designed for rapid deployment and consist of trailer-mounted solar panels equipped with battery storage and a hybrid inverter. The systems can be transported to far-flung islands or disasteraffected areas to provide immediate power when permanent infrastructure is unavailable or disrupted. Alena Mae S. Flores

LRT-1 extends holiday hours for peak season

LIGHT Rail Manila Corp. said Friday it will extend operating hours on select dates to provide more convenient and reliable transportation during the Christmas holiday season. The private operator of LRT-1 announced the adjustments to serve commuters during the peak holiday rush between Dec. 18 and Jan. 1. For the heavy travel days of Dec. 18, 19, 22 and 23, the last train will depart from Dr. Santos Station at 10:45 p.m. and from Fernando Poe Jr. Station at 11 p.m. This provides an additional 15 minutes of service compared to the regular schedule of 10:30 p.m. and 10:45 p.m. During the weekend of Dec. 20 and 21, the company will extend operations by 45 minutes from the usual weekend schedule. The last train will leave Dr. Santos Station at 10:15 p.m. and Fernando Poe Jr. Station at 10:30 p.m. The rail line will implement shortened operating hours on Dec. 24 in observance of Christmas Eve. The last train on that Wednesday will depart Dr. Santos Station at 8 p.m. and Fernando Poe Jr. Station at 8:15 p.m. On Christmas Day, hours will return to an extended schedule with last trips at 10:15 p.m. from Dr. Santos and 10:30 p.m. from Fernando Poe Jr. The regular weekday, weekend and holiday schedule will resume from Dec. 26 until Dec. 30. For New Year’s Eve on Dec. 31, the LRT-1 will implement a shortened schedule with the last train departing Dr. Santos Station at 7 p.m. and Fernando Poe Jr. Station at 7:15 p.m. Darwin G. Amojelar

TECH

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

Complete your holiday shopping —bonus points just for signing up! ’T

rumallari@thestandard.com.ph rieramallari@yahoo.com RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

IS the season for smart shopping, and if you’ve been looking for a way to get a little extra back from your holiday hauls, now is the perfect time to get rewards you deserve as SMAC is making it incredibly easy for new members to start earning big with a special welcome offer this season.

Until December 31, 2025, new SMAC members can instantly unlock 50 SMAC Points—worth P50 (1 point = 1 Peso) —just for getting their SMAC Kit and linking it to the official SMAC&SHOP app. It’s a reward you can use to treat yourself or complete your shopping list at a massive network of retail partners, all for signing up for SMAC. Why should you get the SMAC&SHOP app, you ask? One, if you absolutely love to shop at SM and its partner stores nationwide, it’s designed to be your ul-

timate shopping companion. The SMAC&SHOP app offers everything from SMAC QR access for quick payments to easy points

tracking. Buying a physical SMAC Kit is the first step, but linking it to the app is what unlocks the full, rewarding experience.

Here’s how to claim your FREE 50 SMAC Points: 1. Purchase a SMAC Kit at any participating store like SM Store,

Our Home, Levi’s, or Surplus inside SM Malls for only P200 for a 5-year membership. 2. Activate your new SMAC via SMS following the instructions in your kit. 3. Download the SMAC&SHOP app and link your new SMAC within 7 days of activation. Simply go to Manage Cards > Click Link Card > Input your 16-digit SMAC number > Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number. 4. A voucher for 50 SMAC Points will appear in your Voucher tab within 5 days. Tap “Get Points” to have them credited to your account and start paying with points instantly! It’s that quick and easy! Think of the free extra points as an instant boost to your shopping budget. SMAC Points can be used just like cash across SM’s extensive list of retail brands, including SM Store, SM Markets, Toy Kingdom, Baby Company, Pet Express, ACE Hardware, Sports Central, and many more. If you’ve got a long list of things to get this Christmas, every point and peso definitely counts. Don’t wait—now is the time to start earning rewards and enjoying the full benefits of SMAC. Again, the offer runs until December 31, 2025, so make sure to get started before the holiday season is over! Buy a SMAC Kit and link it to the SMAC&SHOP app now! Download the SMAC&SHOP app on the App Store or Google Play for free.

This Christmas, the city is turning pink

How Converge is empowering students to ‘Achieve Their X’ through the Battlestation Raid experience FOR many students, “X” represents that one defining dream, whether it’s breaking into esports, sharpening their creative craft, or pursuing a future in tech. Through Converge’s newest program, Super FiberX Battlestation Raid, they are committed to empowering students to bring that passion to life by transforming their everyday computer setups into powerful tools to achieve their goals. Hosted by Manjean Faldas, Battlestation Raid surprises deserving students across the country with a complete battlestation transformation, powered in part by a high-speed 24-month Converge Super FiberX Max connection. With three episodes already released and two more on the way, the series showcases how the right tools, the right support, and the right connection can turn potential into real progress. Episode 1: A Student Leader Overcomes Heavy PC Demands to Chase His “X” The series opens with the story of Justine Ryan Deciembre, a student leader from Technological University of the Philippines - Taguig taking up Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technology, a course that requires a powerful and reliable computer setup. Balancing demanding academic workloads with his passion for esports has always been a challenge for Justine. At one point, he even had to uninstall all his PC games to complete his thesis, an especially tough decision for someone who dreams of becoming an esports team manager. His Battlestation Raid experience gave him the push he needed, equipped with the stable fiber connection needed to study, lead, and pursue esports without limits. Faldas shared, “With the Converge SuperFiberX MAX, you can stream, you can study, you can create nang walang limitasyon. Basta’s malakas ang connection mo, ang pangarap mo ay posibleng matupad.” Episode 2: Igniting the Spark of Creativity Battlestation Raid Episode 2 features Clark

Domingo, an AB Communications student from National University - Manila and a dedicated esports community leader. Clark aspires to be a videographer or a cinematographer, but his aging laptop often black-screens during extended editing sessions, a hindrance for both his academic output and his family’s small home printing business. Battlestation Raid provided Clark with the opportunity to create without interruption, manage projects more efficiently, and nurture the spark that fuels his creativity. Faldas reflected on the moment with a powerful message: “Lahat ng passion ay may pinagmulan, lahat ng pangarap ay nagsisimula sa isang spark. At sa kada estudyante, dito nagsisimula ang kanilang X.” Episode 3: Student Gains Confidence to Build Her Future The third episode told the story of Rochelle Joy Cuizon, a student leader from New Era University taking BSBA Financial Management. Between modeling, managing an esports team, and fulfilling school responsibilities, Rochelle relied on borrowing her mother’s laptop, often making it difficult to keep up. She dreams of running her own business one day, whether in farming, a coffee shop or even her own computer shop. Battlestation Raid gave her the boost she needed to confidently pursue her ambitions and take on her academic and leadership roles with greater ease. Content Creators, OhMyV33nus and Wise Gaming joined her episode, with Wise sharing a reminder: “Hangga’t may isang sumusuporta sayo, ituloy mo lang.”

CHRISTMAS in the Philippines has always been a sensory event—the lights, the music, the traffic, the crowds, the gift lists that never seem to end. But this year, something unexpected is catching people’s eyes. In the middle of all the red, green, and gold, a new holiday color is taking over the city: a bold, joyful pink that signals comfort exactly when you need it. This season, foodpanda is painting the town pink with simple but meaningful touches meant to bring small moments of joy to people’s everyday routines: from comforting stops around the city to community efforts that support those who need it most. Extending comfort where it matters most Through a series of purposeful outreach initiatives, foodpanda extended its CSR PANDAriwang far beyond the digital screen to touch the hearts of those who need it most. From the dedicated frontliners, medical staff, and patients at Cebu City Medical Center to the resilient communities that Walang Gutom Kitchen and Bahay Aruga serve, foodpanda’s mission was to bridge the gap between service and genuine human connection. These initiatives represent a core belief at foodpanda— that the spirit of care and service must extend far beyond those who use the app. In a year where many communities have faced the weight of recent calamities, the company’s outreach serves as a vital bridge to those often overlooked. By standing alongside healthcare heroes,

foodpanda introduced pink ‘We Gotchu Stops’ across the city

marginalized families, and those in need, foodpanda is dedicated to transforming the holiday season into a collective celebration. Comfort in the middle of the holiday rush The Christmas rush is festive, but it can also wear people down: long lines, crowded terminals, and endless lists that leave everyone feeling drained. To meet those moments head-on, foodpanda introduced pink “We Gotchu Stops” across the city. These small but thoughtful installations offer comfort exactly where holiday stress tends to build. Rest benches and chill spots in Market Market, Circuit Makati, and Greenfield Central Park give people a place to pause, while vending machines and charging stations in One Ayala, Ayala Avenue, and PITX provide quick essentials and battery boosts for the always-onthe-go crowd. Simple as they are, these touches offer real relief—small reminders that someone thought about what people might need in the middle of the rush.

foodpanda’s partner riders, decked out in pink shirts, reindeer antlers, fairylights, and holiday-themed gear

For foodpanda, convenience isn’t something confined to a screen. The brand shows care not just through deliveries but through real-world touches that support people wherever they are. Each pink stop quietly reassures anyone passing by that foodpanda sees them, understands the chaos of the season, and most of all — they gotchu. Ka-pandas who bring joy wherever they go Traffic is part of every Filipino Christmas, but this year, the roads come with a little extra brightness. foodpanda’s partner riders, decked out in pink shirts, reindeer antlers, fairylights, and holiday-themed gear, are turning Metro Manila’s daily gridlock into unexpected moments of cheer. Spotting one in the middle of traffic instantly lifts the mood, a quick reminder that even stressful days can feel lighter—and when you order, that same festive energy shows up at your doorstep. These riders already go above and beyond every day, and this season, they’re bringing even more heart to what they do. Starting December 8 to 10, you’ll see festive Ka-panda riders across Metro Manila— delivering not just food, but the spirit of the season wherever they go Pink sights that brighten up the city Since October, pink has been popping up along major highways and city centers through digital billboards carrying the message “Pasko Na, We Gotchu.” They add a fresh layer to the holiday skyline and quietly signal that foodpanda is showing up for Filipinos beyond the app.

TECH

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

vivo Philippines brings MaVIVOng Pasko to youth nationwide mWell sets new M

standard in wellness tech with the Philippines’ first ECG ring

mWELL, the Philippines’ health and wellness mega app by Metro Pacific Health Tech Corporation, strengthens its leadership in digital health with the launch of the mWell ECG Ring, the country’s first wellness ring with built-in ECG monitoring. This latest innovation follows the successful launch of the mWell Ring in May 2024, the first smart wellness ring of its kind in the Philippine market. “mWell envisions a future where every Filipino has access to preventive healthcare that is both accessible and affordable,” said Manuel V. Pangilinan, mWell Chairman and Metro Pacific Investments Corporation Chairman, President. “The ECG Ring helps us deliver medical insights that fit into real life. Everyone should be able to take the right steps for their health every single day, and not only when they’re sick.” The mWell Ring introduced Filipinos to a new way of monitoring health through sleep and lifestyle data. Known for its accurate sleep tracking, it captures light, deep, REM, and total sleep, and provides essential metrics that support those with sleep-related concerns. It also generates the mWellness Score, giving users a clear, daily snapshot of their overall health. By offering these capabilities at an accessible price, it helped open the wearables category to more Filipinos. “The new mWell ECG Ring builds on this foundation by adding everyday heart monitoring,” said Chaye Cabal-Revilla, President and CEO of mWell and Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer of MPIC. “On top of all existing mWell Ring features, users can now view ECG results directly on the mWell app and share them with their doctors as a PDF file through messaging apps or email, making it easy to get timely medical advice. These readings, along with other health data, can be securely stored in their mWell Health ID to support continuity of care and make it easier to track progress over time.” Heart health remains a priority in the Philippines. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, ischaemic heart diseases were the leading cause of death in 2024. For many Filipinos balancing busy routines, regular screenings are not always accessible. Simple, wearable tools that encourage consistent monitoring can help bridge this gap by empowering users to stay more aware of their health every day.

ANILA, PHILIPPINES— vivo Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to nation-building and youth empowerment through a nationwide holiday corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, MaVIVOng Pasko para sa Kabataan (Bright Christmas for the Youth), conducted from December 12 to 16, 2025.

The multi-day program reached nine public schools and two government centers across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, bringing timely assistance and holiday cheer to school communities with limited resources. Anchored on vivo’s vision of inspiring and building brighter futures, the initiative focused on extending meaningful support while fostering hope, unity, and service during the Christmas season. Supporting schools, uplifting communities MaVIVOng Pasko para sa Kabataan was designed to enrich learning environments through needs-based interventions, ensuring that each beneficiary received support tailored to their specific requirements. These included school supplies, health and hygiene kits, food packs, and essential school equipment, all aimed at helping students and educators thrive beyond the holidays. The CSR activities were carried out in the following locations nationwide: ● Subangdaku Elementary School – Mandaue City, Cebu ● Bolilao Elementary School –

Dr. Marc Airon Creus (in green shirt in the middle) with school teachers and vivo South Luzon staff

Mandurriao, Iloilo City ● DSWD Reception and Study Center for Children – Palo, Leyte ● Tropical Village National High School – General Trias, Cavite ● Quesban Elementary School – Calasiao, Pangasinan ● Santulan Elementary School – Malabon, Metro Manila ● San Juan Elementary School – San Simon, Pampanga ● Mabasa Elementary School – Dupax Del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya ● Taguig Community and Evacuation Center – Child Development Center – Taguig, Metro Manila ● Pagatpat National High School –

Pagatpat, Cagayan de Oro ● Doña Asuncion Hizon Elementary School – Davao City, Davao del Sur Inspiring hope beyond the holiday According to Liu Lu, Brand Marketing Director of vivo Philippines, the initiative reflects the brand’s deeper purpose beyond innovation. “MaVIVOng Pasko para sa Kabataan is our way of sharing hope and encouragement with young learners and educators across the country. At vivo Philippines, we believe that empowering the youth today helps shape a brighter tomorrow. This holiday season, we wanted to remind communities that they are supported, valued,

and seen,” she shared. Educators from beneficiary schools expressed heartfelt appreciation for the program. Dr. Marc Airon Creus, Principal of Tropical Village National High School in General Trias, Cavite shared, “Talagang vivong vivo po ang pasko ng Tropical Village National High School, alam namin na katulad ng inyong kumpanya, you empower the future. Ito pong ating paaralan, we empower every kind of learner that we have in this institution. Ibigay ninyo po ang aming pasasalamat sa inyong kumpanya na masaya po kami, at alam ko na ang bawat learner ay masaya kasi sila ay may matatanggap na mavivong pamasko.”

STI Talent Search 2025 takes on new stage with new class of talents THE search is over! Here are STI’s new Talents that lit up the new stage for this year’s STI Talent Search. STI College celebrated the grand finale of its annual STI Talent Search lrecently, drawing exceptional participants from different campuses and clusters nationwide. STIers, teachers, and guests from its 63 campuses nationwide all came to witness and cheer on their top student performers, this time, at a brandnew stage in Pampanga’s latest attraction, Pradera Islands Theme Park. The national celebration of talents came alive with excitement and anticipation as the park officially opened its doors to STIers ready to enjoy and determine this year’s best across the four major categories: Battle of the Bands, Singing Idol, Hataw Sayaw, and the crowning of Mr. and Ms. STI. “The STI Talent Search is more than a contest. It is also a platform that unites our students, celebrates their talents, and reinforces STI’s 42-year commitment to holistic, real-life education,” Karen Tabije, VP for Academics said. The Battle of the Bands immediately set the energy for a rock and roll atmosphere

Finally, the newly crowned Mr. and Ms. STI 2025! Dustin Laxamana (STI College Alaminos) and Jehn Rossane Marbella (STI College San Fernando) expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support from their fellow STIers throughout their pageant journey.

where out of eight groups who vied for the title, Magna Carta from STI College Lipa emerged as the new Champions with their powerful rock rendition of ‘Nagloko Ka Rin Naman’ by Humprey Lofranco. “Reaching the Nationals for the first

time is already a big achievement for us. We’ve been preparing for this piece since June, and we’re happy that we got to perform it today on a bigger stage,” the band shared. “It is always a great honor for student musicians like us to get a chance to

share our talent with people through STI competitions like this.” From the bands, the spotlight shifted to the solo artists who were ready to sing their hearts out. Marc Andrei Chavez of STI Tanauan was hailed as the Singing Idol Champion, pouring his heartfelt tribute to the Philippines through his performance of the highly patriotic rap song ‘Mahal Kong Pilipinas’ by artist JMara. Chavez expressed his gratitude to STI for hosting the Talent Search, emphasizing that the institution has become a foundation for many in their talent discovery and development. He stressed the importance of celebrating music, arts, and culture, and giving more outlets for students to shine holistically. As he put it simply, “It all starts at school.” Continuing the hype, students cheered once more for the Hataw Sayaw category, showcasing the diverse styles and original choreography of the competing dance groups. This year’s best was awarded to STI College Fairview’s Beyond the Box team, winning over the judges composed of both locally and internationally renowned dancers with their unique concept and clean execution.

Here’s why the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X (2026) is the Smartest Investment this New Year to transform your productivity and career AS 2025 draws to a close, many are setting sharper goals and gearing up for a more focused, productive year ahead. HUAWEI, the number one tablet brand in the Philippines in shipment volume1, boosts that momentum with the new HUAWEI MatePad 12 X (2026). A device built to elevate efficiency and spark creativity for professionals, creators, and ambitious go-getters, the groundbreaking tablet delivers 4-in-1 productivity performance that helps turn plans into measurable progress. Packed with PC-level performance, intelligent creative tools, the HUAWEI M-Pencil Pro, and a stunning 12-inch 3rd Gen Ultra-clear PaperMatte Display, the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X (2026) feels less like a device and more like a mindset shift toward leveling up both personal and professional growth. Start the Year Ready: Work Sharper With PC-Level Tools Whenever January rolls in, it seems everybody’s to-do list suddenly doubles. During these moments, one simply wishes they had the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X (2026) as the productivity partner sooner. With PC-level WPS Office 3.0, the device delivers a powerful suite built for young professionals, entrepreneurs, and creators. It lets users work across

up to 42 Microsoft-compatible file formats—from in-depth reports to last-minute presentations. Used with the HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard and HUAWEI Mouse, it transforms into a full 4-in-1 desktop-style toolbar, so navigating workloads can feel as if working on a laptop. The device’s upgraded tools, like LaTeX formula editing, editable chart copy-paste, multi-language support, and seamless syncing across the entire HUAWEI

ecosystem, keep users moving without interruptions. So whether used for reviewing proposals during midday coffee, typing notes between meetings, or polishing a deck before a deadline, the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X (2026) is all one needs to be all set! Even if the to-do list doubles, facing the challenges of a packed work day is always manageable with these PC-level features. With the 12-inch 3rd Gen Ultra-clear PaperMatte Display, productivity sessions only get better—the paper-like screen stays clear, glare-free, and easy on the eyes. The 144Hz refresh rate and P3 wide color gamut deliver fluid motion and vibrant detail, while the advanced anti-glare and anti-reflection layers keep visuals sharp under harsh office lighting or direct outdoor sunlight. Backed by SGS Low Visual Fatigue Premium Performance 2.1 certification and TÜV Rheinland anti-reflection, low blue light, and flicker-free protection, the display is engineered to keep the eyes comfortable for longer. It helps reduce eye strain by 34% and even lowers brain fatigue by 14% compared to previous models2, allowing focus without feeling drained. Its sparkle was also cut by 50%, giving crisp and glare-free visuals.

This enables users to review documents longer without eye fatigue, design confidently with accurate colors, and stay focused even during back-toback tasks. With the 12-inch 3rd Gen Ultra-clear PaperMatte Display, every workspace—café tables, coworking lounges, airport gates—is a comfortable, distraction-free zone that keeps productivity flowing. It’s the perfect blend of user-centricity and PC power.

SHOWBIZ

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

How Leo Consul found freedom back home

Charly Suarez names Eman Pacquiao to play himself in biopic

By Jasper Valdez

By Nickie Wang

FTER spending more than a decade working in Indonesian television and film, Leo Consul admits that returning to the Philippines has been eye-opening, not because he’s unfamiliar with the industry, but because he can finally work without holding back. Leo Consul is returning to Philippine showbiz after more than a decade in Indonesia

Consul, who spent years hosting Indonesian television shows, including Eat Bulaga Indonesia and It’s Showtime Indonesia, while carving out acting roles, shared that working abroad came with creative boundaries shaped largely by cultural and religious norms. While those limitations did not prevent him from building a solid career, they did influence the types of roles he was able to explore. “The biggest factor is religion,” Consul said. “In Indonesia, I never had kissing scenes. There were so many restrictions.” He explained that while such limits were part of the system, they often affected how deeply he could explore certain characters, noting that even simple expressions of intimacy were often off the table because of cultural considerations. That contrast became clear when he began working on local projects again, including the series Fit Check: Confessions of an Ukay Queen, where he shared intimate scenes with veteran actress Angel Aquino. “When I did a series here in the Philippines, I was culturally shocked,” he said. “Like, wow, this is the Philippines. We’re bolder here. We’re moving forward.” For Consul, the shift was not about being provocative but about having space to tell stories more honestly. “It’s easier to explore,” he said. In Indonesia, another challenge came from performing in a language that was not his own. While he worked hard to master Bahasa, Consul said the mental effort of getting every word right sometimes took away from the emotional core of a scene. “You have so many things running through your head,” he said. “You’re thinking about diction, pronunciation, articulation.” That constant mental checklist, he added, showed on screen. “Viewers can tell when you’re struggling with a word,” he said. With little room for reshoots, performances often moved forward as is. “You just go with it,” he said. “So in a way, you end up neglecting the craft.” Back home, working in his native tongue has eased that

By Angelica Villanueva

pressure. Consul said performing in Filipino, or even Taglish, allows him to focus less on mechanics and more on meaning. “Now that I’m using my own language and my brand of humor, everything comes more naturally,” he said. “It takes a lot of the pressure off.” The creative freedom has also allowed him to take on heavier material, something he said suits him better at this stage of his career. In Indonesia, he was often cast in lighter roles, playing students or young leads in romancedriven stories. “Most of my roles there were as college students,” he said. “They were very light roles.” Here, he said, there’s more room to take on roles that ask for heavier emotions. “Now, here, I get to use my own language,” he said. “The roles feel more natural to me now.” Consul stressed that his experience abroad taught him discipline and respect, but coming home has given him a renewed appreciation for storytelling that reflects emotion without hesitation. As he settles back into the local industry under ALV Talent Circuit, headed by Arnold Vegafria, Consul said he is not rushing anything. “Time is everything,” he said. “I trust the process.” For now, he is focused on roles that allow him to grow and on telling stories that finally feel close to home.

Songs that make Christmas feel like home

FOR MANY Filipinos, Christmas goes beyond lights, shopping, or parties. It’s a mood that slowly settles in as soon as the month of September comes in. You see it in parols hanging outside homes, hear it in carols looping in malls, smell it in freshly cooked bibingka and puto bumbong after attending the Misa de Gallo, and feel it when families finally gather over Noche Buena feasts. And like every memorable moment, music becomes the thread that binds these experiences, making the season truly come alive. Now that Christmas is just around the corner, here are seven songs that have become the soundtrack of a Filipino Christmas, each carrying its own story, emotion, and memory. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey No modern Christmas playlist feels complete without pop singer Mariah Carey’s 1994 hit. The moment it plays, there’s no denying that the holidays are officially on. You hear it in malls, in cars, and at parties where everyone somehow knows the words. For many Filipinos, it’s a song you sing out loud, laugh to, and associate with the excitement of Christmas finally arriving. “Last Christmas” by Wham! “Last Christmas” might sound like a cheerful holiday tune, but

its story is really about love and loss. The lyrics recall giving your heart to someone who didn’t value it and the pain that came with that rejection. Instead of talking about holiday cheer, it captures the bittersweet feeling of remembering a past hurt that happened around the holidays and trying to protect yourself this year while still holding on to a little hope. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” by Bing Crosbyhough written for snow-filled streets abroad, Bing Crosby’s classic evokes a timeless warmth even under tropical skies. It brings to mind decorated homes and busy preparations, scenes that feel familiar even without winter weather. Played in malls and on the radio, it adds to that shared sense of anticipation that makes Christmas feel close and comforting. “Pasko Sa Pinas” by Yeng Constantino “Pasko Sa Pinas” hits especially hard for Filipinos who spend the holidays away from home. It’s about missing family, familiar places, and the small traditions that define Christmas back home.

Jose Mari Chan’s ‘Christmas in Our Hearts’ remains a staple of Filipino holiday playlists

Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’ holds the record for the longestrunning No. 1 song on the U.S. charts

FILIPINO boxing champion Charly Suarez said he would like actor Eman Bacosa Pacquiao to portray him if his life story is made into a film, hoping it would inspire young athletes and ordinary people to overcome challenges. In an interview with Manila Standard Entertainment, the 37-year-old boxer said he wants his story to show that no challenge is impossible to overcome. “I want to be an inspiration not only to athletes but to ordinary people who dare to dream big,” he said in Filipino. Suarez added that he preferred a “humble beginning” for the film, showing how he achieved his dreams in a way many could relate to. “I’m okay with anyone playing me, but Eman is talented and is already trying showbiz. He’s fit to do it in case it really happens,” he said. “I want it to show the humble start and how I reached my goals.” Meanwhile, Suarez, the number one WBO junior lightweight mandatory challenger, is awaiting the outcome of his formal grievance challenging the sanctioning of the upcoming Navarrete–Nunez world title unification fight. Last May, Suarez faced Emanuel Navarrete of Mexico in a controversial match that ended in a no-contest decision. Seven months later, Suarez and his team—managers Luis Chavit Singson and Rick Navalta and coach Delfin Boholst—remain hopeful for a rematch. Navalta said the team would not accept a step-aside fee and wants the fight to happen in the ring. “We started seeing social media posts indicating there might not be a rematch and that Navarrete could fight Nunez instead. We decided to inquire about the status,” he said. The team formally filed a grievance with the WBO on Dec. 8 and is waiting for the review. “Charly is the number one mandatory contender, and they should honor that. We want to make sure his rights as mandatory challenger are observed,” Navalta said. Suarez, a three-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist, continues to train extensively despite the uncertainty. The WBO has confirmed it will review the grievance. Charly Suarez remains focused on training as he waits for the WBO to rule on his grievance as the division’s mandatory challenger

Young boxer Eman Bacosa-Pacquiao recently signed as an artist under GMA’s Sparkle

The song captures the bittersweet reality of celebrating the season abroad, finding joy where you are while holding on to memories of what makes Christmas truly Pinoy. “Christmas in Our Hearts” by Jose Mari Chan Often called the national anthem of Filipino Christmas, Jose Mari Chan’s classic has been part of the season since 1990. You can hear it playing everywhere, from malls and offices to homes and school programs. Its message is simple and familiar, Christmas is about love, forgiveness, and being together. “Bro, Ikaw Ang Star ng Pasko” by ABS-CBN Artists ABS-CBN’s iconic Christmas Station ID puts the spotlight on people who choose to give, help, and look after one another. Its lyrics speak of hope shining through heavy clouds, of wounds healing through warmth, embraces, and shared strength. Beyond its holiday tune, it reminds people of the true meaning of Christmas and why the season is celebrated in the first place. “Sana Ngayong Pasko” by Ariel Rivera The song has become one of the most heart-wrenching OPM Christmas songs. It speaks of longing and hope, especially for those separated from loved ones during the holidays. It captures the wish of bringing people back together, even if it’s only for a while. Ariel Rivera’s ‘Sana Ngayong Pasko’ captures the longing of those hoping to reunite with loved ones during the season

LIFE

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

IVE-STAR luxury is often associated with polished, impersonal elegance. A stay at the Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort, however, redefines this expectation. Here, luxury is rooted in genuine warmth and attentive familiarity, transforming the beautiful property into a true home away from home.

Spacious, digitally enabled rooms reflect the resort’s balance of modern comfort and residential ease

Located in the vibrant Clark Freeport Zone, the Department of Tourismcertified five-star resort is a sanctuary of modern comfort set against lush hillside views. With spacious, digitally enabled rooms, a stunning outdoor pool, and a wellness center, the physical amenities are exactly what you’d expect from a top-tier Hilton property. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining, a fully equipped fitness center, a dedicated Kid’s Club, and even a walking path through the grounds. At the helm of this exceptional team is general manager Denise H.R. Molintas, PhD. Appointed to lead the resort, Molintas is no stranger to Hilton’s standards of excellence,

having begun her career with the group in 2001. Her impressive journey spans over two decades across China and Southeast Asia, where she managed daily operations, developed key business strategies, and led the preopening of several Hilton properties. “When I took over Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort in April 2022, it was still emerging from pandemic challenges and completing pre-opening requirements. Our goal was clear—to build the property as ‘the premier MICE destination resort north of Manila.’ This vision guided key improvements and fostered a culture of learning and continuous growth, which has become

Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort presents a five-star experience rooted in warmth, space, and thoughtful design within the Clark Freeport Zone

Where luxury feels like coming home the ground floor with separate entrances and dedicated parking, allowing large events to run Ardee de los Angeles independently. This design enables the resort to operate dual service modes smoothly: the foundation of our success,” Molintas attentive, family-focused engagement Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort and efficient, large-scale event cobases its guest experiences on six core ordination. Through deliberate themes—sustainable, harmonious, zoning and integrated planadventurous, diverse, epicurean, and ning, Hilton Clark mainsassy—collectively called its “Shades of tains a peaceful family Blue.” These themes shape offers for both atmosphere even during individual travelers and MICE groups. high-volume conferThe resort connects guests to a ences and banquets. wide range of local activities, from Guests also have adventurous treks up Mt. Pinatubo access to a variety of and visits to Aqua Planet waterpark to wellness sessions at Apricus and cultural experiences like sisig tastings, General painting classes, or horseback riding manager at El Kabayo. Guests can also enjoy Denise H.R. premier golf at D’Heights Resort and Molintas, Country Club or relax with a healing PhD, leads treatment at Apricus Wellness Spa. the resort The resort’s layout is intentionally with a zoned to preserve the guest experience vision across different visitor needs. Leisure centered facilities such as the gym, Kids Club, on service and spa are situated on the mezzanine culture, level, providing a tranquil retreat growth, for families. In contrast, the Grand and guest connection Ballroom and meeting spaces occupy

Dee-tails

By Jasper Valdez Casio transforms The Warehouse Talat Noi in Bangkok into a retro-meetsmodern space for its three-day regional showcase celebrating more than five decades of watch design

Bangkok event showcases vintage timepieces with brand-new flair By Nickie Wang CASIO Computer Co. Ltd. held a three-day regional event in Bangkok to showcase its vintage watch lines. Hosted at The Warehouse Talat Noi in Bangkok, Thailand, the event also brought together influencers, members of the media, and avid collectors. The event, titled “Back In Time, Ahead In Style,” ran from Nov. 21 to 23. Organizers said the showcase traced more than five decades of Casio watch design, linking the brand’s early digital models with recent releases and pop culture tieins. The venue was divided into two main zones. The invitation-only Time Lounge featured new product launches, collaborations, and a brand history exhibit, while the Vintage Arcade was open to the public and included DJ sets, retrothemed installations, a flea market, and displays of classic Casio models Among the watches on display were the A158WA-1A, positioned

as the flagship model, alongside the A230, AQ240 and the Casio Ring Watch. Casio also presented collaborations inspired by Netflix’s Stranger Things and the film Back to the Future. Live programming during the event included performances by Thai band Aboy, appearances by regional artists such as dancer and choreographer Tobita Atsushi, DJ sets, and a swing dance flash mob. Organizers also hosted interactive exhibits, a retrothemed speakeasy bar, and a styling segment recognizing well-dressed attendees. The Warehouse Talat Noi is a 900-square-meter creative space in one of Bangkok’s oldest neighborhoods, dating back to the 1700s. Public hours ran from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., with free admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Founded in 1946, Casio Computer Co. Ltd. is a Japanese electronics manufacturer known for its watches, calculators, musical instruments, and other consumer products.

Filipino influencers and collectors at Casio’s ‘Back In Time, Ahead In Style’ event posing for the cameras with their vintage watch models

AS THE holiday season approaches, the pressure to give the right gift often comes with a price tag. Malls grow busier, wish lists get longer, and conversations quietly drift toward budgets. Yet for many people, especially after a long and demanding year, the most memorable gifts are rarely the ones that come in boxes. More Filipinos are beginning to look beyond material presents and toward gestures rooted in time, effort, and shared moments. These gifts focus on connection rather than things. With that said, here are six simple ways to give something meaningful to people you care about this Christmas.

Curating shared photos into a single photo book brings meaningful moments together and turns them into a personal story meant to be revisited (AI-generated image)

Setting aside a full catch-up day Setting aside a full day to reconnect can mean more than weeks of casual messages. A catch-up day is intentional—no errands, no rushing, no checking phones every few minutes. It could be as simple as coffee that turns into a long conversation or a walk that allows space for stories that usually get postponed Cooking a meal specifically for someone Cooking for someone remains one

on-site dining options to suit any taste. All cuisine is available for in-room dining, with online orders delivered seamlessly to the door in 10 to 15 minutes. “Our approach is to give guests a curated culinary journey reflecting both our heritage and global standards. At Olive, we blend Kapampangan and Filipino flavors into familiar international dishes, letting guests enjoy local tastes in an approachable way. This balance helps international travelers appreciate our regional cuisine without overwhelming their palate,” Molintas continued. Beyond Olive restaurant, guests discover an entirely different dining dimension at Xi. The culinary team has crafted a menu that showcases elevated, authentic Chinese flavors. In the end, Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort offers more than luxury— it offers a sense of belonging. Guests feel recognized, cared for, and at home. Under Molintas’s guidance, the resort blends world-class amenities with the simple, profound luxury of human connection.

Gifts that don’t come wrapped Six ways to give a meaningful present this Christmas

Writing a personal note allows space to express gratitude, acknowledgment, or feelings that are often left unsaid in everyday conversations (AI-generated image)

of what happened, but why it stayed with them. Planning a simple movie night at home Picking one film, fixing a few snacks, and watching it together— without phones or interruptions— means sitting down and giving each other time. It’s less about the movie and more about being in the same room and being with each other sideby-side. Making a short playlist meant for one person Music often says what words can’t. A carefully chosen playlist becomes a thoughtful way to share memories and feelings. What matters is the care put into choosing each track. In a season that often leans toward excess, these gifts stand out by giving people time to slow down and be present with one another. And long after the decorations are packed away, the feelings they bring stay well beyond the holidays.

of the most personal gestures there is. Whether it’s a favorite meal, a family recipe, or a dish tied to shared moments, the effort matters more than something store-bought. Writing a personal note Not everything important gets spoken aloud. Writing a note or letter allows room for reflection— acknowledging growth, offering thanks, or simply saying “I see you.” These words often linger long after the holidays, tucked away and re-read when needed most. Putting shared photos into one photo book Photos capture moments, but selecting which ones matter most turns them into something personal. A small photo book, whether printed or digital, brings those moments together in one place. It turns them into a story, reminding people not just

Cooking a meal for someone is a quiet but impactful way to show care during the holidays (AI-generated image)