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Red flags in ‘Cabral list’ mount DPWH personnel insist Leviste forcibly took docs, copied files

By Katrina Manubay, Vito Barcelo and Othel V. Campos

ORE people have cast doubt on the so-called “Cabral list” in the possession of Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste, with some DPWH personnel insisting the lawmaker forcibly took documents and copied files from the office of the late Public Works Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral. Contrary to Leviste’s claim that Dizon, several public works personCabral gave him the files with the nel told GMA News that Cabral even approval of DPWH Secretary Vince sustained paper cuts and bled after Leviste allegedly took the documents from her hand.

VOL. XXXIX • NO. 319 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025

Reenacted budget won’t disrupt govt work—Palace

By Charles Dantes

PREPPING FOR MEDIA NOCHE. A buyer, at right, tries out a ‘torotot’ for size at a stall selling all shapes and sizes of

noise makers in Mega Qmart in Quezon City. Center photo shows a stall in Divisoria selling round fruits that are said to bring prosperity, good luck and abundance while another vendor is busy arranging lucky charms and red tassels meant to welcome the New Year. Manny Palmero, Norman Cruz.

Children most affected by firecracker blasts By Ram Superable, Vince Lopez, and Rex Espiritu THE Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday reported 140 firework-related injuries recorded nationwide from Dec. 21 to 30, based on monitoring from 62 sen-

tinel hospitals. Children aged 5 to 14 accounted for 78 cases, or 58% of the total, underscoring the continued vulnerability of minors during the holiday period. Next page

MALACAÑANG yesterday assured the public that a week under a reenacted budget will not disrupt government operations, explaining that the delay will give the Executive Branch time to conduct a thorough review of the ratified 2026 national budget. In a statement, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said the administration received the ratified 2026 General Appropriations Act on December 29 and is scrutinizing all allocations and provisions to account for changes made from the originally submitted National Expenditure Program (NEP). “The President and his team are scrutinizing all allocations and provisions to fully account for any changes from the originally submitted NationNext page

Let Rizal’s principles guide the way we live and work for our nation—PBBM PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday urged Filipinos to draw inspiration from national hero Dr. Jose Rizal by upholding patriotism, truth, and responsible citizenship, as the nation commemorates Rizal Day. For her part, Vice President Sara Duterte said the

‘Survey results will not deter PBBM from doing right’ By Charles Dantes and Katrina Mikaela Manubay MALACANANG has said recent survey results will serve only as a guide for the administration and will not affect President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s commitment to good governance and his anti-corruption campaign. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said survey ratings, whether high or Next page

true lesson of Rizal was very clear: “Independence is not only liberty from foreign aggression, but also the freedom of our thoughts and sentiments from abuse, disunity, and evil,” she said in Filipino. Next page

GRAND WINNER.

Filipino-American singer Jessica Sanchez, grand winner of the 20th season of America’s Got Talent (AGT), is all smiles during a courtesy call at the President’s Hall. PCO

HONORING RIZAL. President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. is escorted on his way to place a wreath at the

monument of the country’s national hero Dr. Jose Rizal in commemoration of the 129th Anniversary of his Martyrdom at the Rizal Park in Manila. Revoli Cortez

PBBM asks Sanchez to perform at ASEAN 2026 PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has invited Filipino-American singer and “America’s Got Talent” Season 20 grand winner Jessica Sanchez to perform during the Philippine hosting of the ASEAN Leaders’ Summit in May 2026.

The President extended the invitation during Sanchez’ courtesy call at Malacanang Palace yesterday where Marcos congratulated Sanchez for her international achievement and underscored the pride she brought to the country.

“You made us all very, very proud,” the President told Sanchez. Marcos said the invitation also comes with high expectations, noting that ASEAN leaders anticipate world-class performances from the Next page

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

PH among top viewers of YT AI slop T

Let Rizal’s... From A1

Filipinos represented 1.16 billion total views on trending AI slop channels. The country has around 59 million YouTube users representing about 85 percent of all Filipino internet users, based on the Digital 2026 report released by Meltwater and We Are Social.

The key finding of Kapwing’s study is that between 21 to 33 percent of YouTube’s feed could consist of AI slop or brainrot videos. It defines AI slop as “careless, lowquality content generated using automatic computer applications and

Reenacted... From A1

Red flags... From A1

al Expenditure Program,” he said. Recto pointed out that the review, expected to take about a week, aims to ensure that the spending plan meets legal and technical requirements and addresses the needs of Filipinos. The Executive Secretary previously stated that President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. is expected to sign the national budget on January 5, the first working day of the new year. Recto added that the administration remains committed to fiscal discipline, stressing that the review is intended to safeguard public funds, ensuring that taxpayers’ money is spent wisely and translates into tangible benefits. “The public is assured that a brief period under a reenacted budget will not disrupt government operations,” he said. Recto assured that the deliberate review underscores the administration’s focus on accountability and prudent spending as it prepares to implement the 2026 budget. However, it was unclear how a reenacted budget would affect a salary increase for government employees that is scheduled to take effect on January 1. Manila Standard sought to clarify the issue, but a reply from the Palace was unavailable as of this writing. Under Executive Order No. 64, a third tranche of the pay hike for both civilian and military personnel was supposed to begin immediately at the start of the year. In 2025, some P70 billion was allocated in the P6.352-trillion national budget for the implementation of the second tranche of the salary adjustment.

The narrative of the DPWH matched the statement of Dizon earlier who said Leviste appeared to be throwing his weight around when he went to Cabral’s office. Dizon yesterday said that while he authorized the release of a copy of the legislative district breakdown for DPWH’s 2026 proposed budget, he did not approve the forcible taking of Cabral’s file. “I authorized the release of the legislative district breakdown, absolutely. But (Leviste’s) stealing of files from the computer—that had no imprimatur. As for him struggling over papers with Cabral, that had no imprimatur. Why would I give that imprimatur?” Dizon said the documents from Cabral’s office are already with the Office of the Ombudsman. The DPWH chief on Tuesday also denied allegations by Leviste that he made supposed “insertions” or used “allocable” funds for flood control projects under the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA). “Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon categorically denies the baseless and malicious allegations made by Rep. Leandro Leviste regarding supposed ‘insertions’ or ‘allocables,’” the DPWH said in a statement. “The BCDA, which Secretary Dizon formerly headed, has already issued a clear statement that it has no flood control projects that are funded through budget insertions, ‘allocable funds,’ or any discretionary source,” it added. BCDA, in a separate statement, said

no such funds exist within its project portfolio or under its authority, and any claims suggesting otherwise are unsupported by evidence and false. “All projects are financed only through approved government programs, released through the National Treasury, implemented under the General Appropriations Act, and governed by procurement laws and Commission on Audit rules,” the agency said. Leviste, for his part, denied taking the documents from Cabral without her permission, but confirmed that he did copy files from a computer in her office. “I vehemently deny snatching any document from Usec. Cabral. My question is, why are they only saying this now if it were actually true?” he said. As this developed, House public accounts committee chairperson Terry Ridon said Leviste may face an ethics complaint over allegations he illegally acquired files from Cabral’s office. “Reports that he forcibly took the files from the office of Usec. Cabral are concerning. That is a big issue and we’d like to get more information about that. The DPWH personnel who spoke about what happened may be invited to the ethics complaint that may be filed against Congressman Leviste,” Ridon said. “They (personnel) can file the complaint. And of course, the House ethics committee can also look into these particular details motu proprio,” he added. Earlier, the Office of the Ombudsman and Malacanang raised concerns over Leviste’s so-called “Cabral files,” noting that the documents may have been manipulated and remain subject to verification.

Children... From A1

leading causes of injuries and urged the public to seek immediate hospital care for any firework-related accident to prevent complications. Authorities also reminded the public to call the National Emergency Hotline 911 for urgent medical assistance. Meanwhile, Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. reiterated the strict enforcement of a one-strike policy against indiscriminate firing of firearms, warning that violators will face

immediate sanctions. “Personnel found guilty of indiscriminate firing shall face immediate administrative and criminal liability, without warning or second chances,” Nartatez said. He added that unit commanders will be held accountable under the principle of command responsibility and called on police personnel to set an example of discipline and restraint as the nation welcomes the New Year. The Armed Forces of the Philippines

(AFP), meanwhile, reminded its personnel to strictly observe discipline and existing regulations on the safe and responsible handling of firearms during the holiday season. “There is no specific directive mandating the taping of firearms for the New Year, but all personnel are individually responsible for upholding the highest standards of professionalism at all times,” the AFP said, adding that commanders have been directed to reinforce supervision and vigilance to ensure peaceful and orderly celebrations.

“Let our celebration deepen our resolve to live by the values he embodied: love of country, respect for truth, a tireless pursuit of just reform, and the courage to speak and act for what is right,” the President Marcos said in his message. “May this commemoration inspire every Filipino-especially the youth, whom Rizal so dearly cherished-to pair patriotism with responsible citizenship so that we can be of better service to the country,” he added. Marcos said Rizal, through his writings and martyrdom, awakened the citizens’ sense of identity and showed that Filipinos deserve dignity, freedom, and the power to determine their own future. “Today, as Filipinos demand integrity and accountability from its leaders, we look up to his life to provide us with guidance and strength,” the Chief Executive said. President Marcos added that “across all spheres in life, both public and private, may we allow Rizal’s principles to guide the way we live and work for our nation so that in whatever we do, we always choose compassion over indifference and country over personal interests.” Senate President Vicente Sotto III, on other hand, reminded the people of what Rizal said; “The youth is the hope of the nation.” As a whole, the Senate in a statement said it joins the nation in honoring Dr. José Rizal, whose martyrdom continues to inspire generations. “His courage, love of country, and steadfast pursuit of truth and justice remain guiding lights for our people. As we commemorate his legacy, the Senate renews its commitment to uphold these values in service of national progress and the welfare of every Filipino.” The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also joined in commemorating Rizal Day. AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said Rizal’s life and sacrifice awakened the nation’s consciousness and continued to define the ideals of courage, dignity, and love of country. “Rizal’s belief that a nation’s strength rests on principle and character continues to guide the AFP in fulfilling its constitutional mandate to protect the people and secure the sovereignty of the State,” Brawner said. He noted that this year’s Rizal Day observance carries added significance as it coincides with the 90th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. He said that for nine decades, the AFP has upheld the ideals championed by Rizal—selfless service, patriotism, and unwavering devotion to the nation—through the sacrifices of generations of Filipino soldiers. “These are the men and women who stand guard over our land, seas, and skies,” he added.

unhappy with the President’s performance, with approximately 48 percent expressing disapproval and about 34 percent giving him the thumb up sign. Castro also drew a contrast with the previous administration, noting that while it maintained high approval ratings during its six-year term, questions remained over whether public funds linked to alleged kickbacks were recovered or whether individuals were held accountable, despite reports of ghost projects emerging as early as 2020. She said those involved in corruption were not made to answer for the allegations and, in some cases, appeared to have been tolerated. Castro further pointed out that high

survey ratings do not necessarily translate into concrete outcomes, citing ongoing scrutiny over the confidential funds of the Vice President. “The Vice President has a high rating, but is there already any result from the investigation into her confidential funds, which many of her allies were still blocking,” Castro said. Across geographic areas, the President received a majority approval rating in the rest of Luzon, with 51 percent. However, disapproval was not so prevalent in Metro Manila at 53 percent, compared to the Visayas (which gave him 62 percent and Mindanao, 85 percent. The survey indicated that while Marcos failed to achieve a majority trust rating in December 2025, he

garnered majority distrust scores in the Visayas at 60 percent and Mindanao, 86 percent, and among Class E respondents. Near-majority distrust levels were also reported in Metro Manila at 50 percent and Class D, 47 percent. According to Pulse Asia, between September and December 2025, the only significant change in presidential performance ratings was a 17 percentage point increase in disapproval in Metro ManilaThe survey also revealed that Vice President Sara Duterte continues to enjoy small majority approval and trust ratings, with more than half of the adult population (56 percent) giving her a positive performance assessment, while

around a quarter (24 percent) disapproves of her work. Support for the Vice President’s work is notably high among Visayans (68 percent) and Mindanawons (95 percent), while approval in Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon was lower at 44 percent and 35 percent, respectively. Furthermore, Duterte enjoys majority trust ratings in the Visayas (67 percent), Mindanao (96 percent), among Class D respondents (54 percent), and Class E respondents (70 percent). The face-to-face survey was conducted from Dec.12 to 15, involving 1,200 respondents aged 18 and above, with a margin of error of ±2.8 percent at the 95 percent confidence level.

“You have to do a tour around the Philippines so that everybody can see you. We only saw you on TV,” Marcos said. He also asked Sanchez about her artistic growth since her earlier stints on international talent shows. “What did you do differently? Did you train extra?” Marcos asked. Sanchez replied that maturity and self-awareness made the difference. “I think I was just really young. I was 16 years old and now I’m like grown. I

know who I am, I know what I want … So, this time I’m coming fully confident,” she said. First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos shared that Sanchez’s reputation is already well known among regional leaders. “We were in Cambodia with the Prime Minister of Singapore. My husband was nervous about the ASEAN and the Prime Minister said, ‘You guys have no problem. You are so musical, you know you have Jessica Sanchez,’” she said.

“Even in Singapore, they know you,” the First Lady said. “If you do a world tour, you should start here.” Sanchez, who recently gave birth, said she continues to work on new music. “I’m working on an album now. It will be released by the first quarter of next year,” Sanchez said, adding that the project will be independently produced and include collaborations with Filipino artists. “I also wanted to do a Tagalog song,”

she said. In an ambush interview after the courtesy call, Sanchez said she is carefully preparing for the ASEAN performance. “I’ll be representing the Filipinos so I wanna take my time figuring out my song choices,” she said. Sanchez won “America’s Got Talent” Season 20 this year, completing a twodecade journey that began with early rejections and runner-up finishes before finally claiming the title.

HE Philippines ranked as the top 19th country where trending YouTube AI slop channels have the most views, according to new research by video editing platform Kapwing.

Overall, 95 patients, or 68% of the injured, were 19 years old and below, while 32% involved adults aged 20 and above. Compared with the same period last year, the number of cases reflects a 23% decline from the 182 injuries recorded as of Dec. 30, 2024. The DOH identified five-star firecrackers and improvised cannons as the

‘Survey... From A1 low, will not deter the President from continuing investigations into alleged irregularities in flood control projects, which she acknowledged may generate political backlash and economic uncertainty. “The President will not be affected by the rating decline because what he did is the right decision that may not be a popular decision since many people and politicians will be affected,” Castro stressed. In the December 2025 Ulat ng Bayan poll by Pulse Asia Research Inc., nearly half of Filipino adults said they were

PBBM... From A1 host country. “The problem is with ASEAN, they expect now a really high level of performers and of musicality. We got the best,” he said. The President encouraged Sanchez to reconnect with Filipino audiences nationwide.

distributed to farm views and subscriptions or sway political opinion.” Meanwhile, brainrot is “compulsive, nonsensical, low-quality video content that creates the effect of corroding the viewer’s mental or intellectual state while watching; often generated with AI.” Brainrot videos are said to account for around 33 percent of the first 500 YouTube shorts on a new user’s feed. Kapwing manually researched the top 100 trending YouTube channels in every country to isolate the AI slop

channels. It then retrieved the number of views, subscribers, and estimated yearly revenue (using the midpoint values) for these channels. The study aggregated these figures for each country’s AI slop channels to get an idea of their popularity. Additionally, the platform created a new YouTube account and recorded the number of AI slop and brainrot videos among the first 500 YouTube Shorts it cycled through to get an idea of the new-user experience.

Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said investigators from the Office of the Ombudsman approached Leviste after he claimed to have received a complete list from Cabral but he “did not present the entire set of files he claimed to possess, even when asked to do so.” Clavano said this happened when Cabral was still alive and was already represented by a lawyer in the investigation into anomalous f lood control projects. “We reiterate that the shared objective of all concerned institutions and even individuals should be very clear at this point. We need to establish facts, we need to uphold transparency, and we need to hold accountable any individual found to have committed any wrongdoing. So, all our actions must lead to these,” Clavano said. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro described Leviste’s “list” as hearsay until it is officially authenticated by the DPWH. “The Palace will only respond to the documents authenticated by DPWH. Other than these, they will all be considered as hearsay or tsismis which have no probative value,” she said. Castro said based on Leviste’s own social media post on his Oct. 1 email to Dizon, it was former DPWH chief Manuel Bonoan who gave the files to him and there was no mention of Cabral. “So we don’t really know where his (Leviste’s) narrative is coming from. Perhaps he should clarify this because the details keep on changing. Who really gave him the document? Secretary Bonoan? Usec Cabral? When in fact in his Oct. 1, 2025 email, he never mentioned the name of Usec. Cabral,” the Palace official added.

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025 MST.DAYDESK@GMAIL.COM

DOH alerts after baby kidnappings By Ram Superable

HE Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday called for stricter hospital security after two cases of newborn abduction were reported in Manila and Marikina City this month.

CONFISCATED, DESTROYED. Police Regional Director Brig. Gen. Kenneth Lucas leads the destruction of about P4.08 million worth of confiscated illegal firecrackers during a media presentation at the PRO 4A Covered Court in Camp BGen Vicente Lim, Calamba City, on Tuesday. Dennis Abrina

Operatives arrest cohorts of Roque, Ong in Pampanga By Vince Lopez THE Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) on Tuesday reported the arrest of a cohort of former presidential spokesperson turned fugitive lawyer Harry Roque and Cassandra Li Ong in Pampanga. CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II identified the suspect as “Boss Terry,” a 44-year-

old Chinese national and resident of Barangay Pulong Maba, Porac, Pampanga. He is a co-accused of Roque and Ong. Morico said “Boss Terry” served as an administrative officer of Lucky South 99 and allegedly supervised the torture of erring Chinese Philippine offshore gaming operator employees. The suspect was arrested on Dec.

IN BRIEF PRO Calabarzon destroys firecrackers POLICE Regional Office Calabarzon Director Brig. Gen. Paul Kenneth Lucas led the destruction of confiscated illegal firecrackers during a media presentation on Tuesday. Lucas said the campaign against the sale, manufacture, and distribution of illegal firecrackers intensified ahead of the New Year. From Dec. 16 to date, police conducted 238 operations, arrested 12 suspects, and seized illegal firecrackers worth P4.8 million. Authorities also recorded five firecracker-related injuries currently under medical treatment, along with one incident involving the illegal discharge of a firearm. The suspect in the firearm case is facing charges under Republic Act 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. Members of the media witnessed the destruction of confiscated items, including piccolo, five-star, whistle bombs, kwitis, sawa, assorted pyrotechnics, and improvised cannons. Some items were disposed of through controlled detonation by the Regional Explosive and Canine Unit.Dennis Abrina

Manila LGU probes firecracker incident MANILA Mayor Francisco Moreno Domagoso on Tuesday said the Manila Police District is investigating how a minor obtained an illegal firecracker involved in a recent deadly incident. Domagoso said police are tracing the source of the prohibited item to determine accountability, particularly among sellers, and warned that violators will face arrest and criminal charges. He added that city hospitals, emergency medical services, and the Bureau of Fire Protection remain on heightened alert to respond to possible firecrackerrelated injuries. Meanwhile, Manila Department of Social Welfare head Jay Dela Fuente said the city provided ₱25,000 financial assistance, burial support, and psychosocial services to the family of the deceased minor. The city government also covered hospital expenses and provided ₱10,000 assistance to another injured minor, as authorities vowed to intensify campaigns against illegal firecrackers. Pot Chavez

Airport police nab kidnapping suspect POLICE arrested a woman at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on Tuesday in connection with a kidnapping case in Cavite. The suspect was apprehended upon her arrival from Singapore by a joint team from the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, and the Imus City Police Station. Authorities said the arrest was based on a standing warrant issued by a Cavite family court for kidnapping and failure to return a minor, with no recommended bail. Police said the suspect was informed of the charges against her and of her constitutional rights, with the arrest documented to ensure transparency and accountability. The woman was turned over to the CIDG Manila District Field Unit for documentation and further legal proceedings, police said. Joel E. Zurbano

29 at around 11:30 a.m. in Angeles City during a joint manhunt operation by CIDG units, the Bureau of Immigration, the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, and Police Regional Office 3. Authorities said the arrest was carried out by virtue of a warrant issued by a regional trial court in Angeles City on May 8, 2025, for qualified trafficking in persons under Republic

Act 9208, with no recommended bail. He is the third among 51 accused to be arrested in connection with the alleged trafficking activities linked to Lucky South 99 Outsourcing Inc. Morico lauded the arresting units, saying the operation underscores the CIDG’s commitment to arresting all wanted persons and helping victims attain justice.

PLANET FRIENDLY FOREWORKS.

As New Year celebrations approach, the EcoWaste Coalition steps up its call for people-, pet-, and planet-friendly festivities without firecrackers and fireworks at Barangay 179 in Caloocan City. The group urges the use of safe, emissionfree alternative noisemakers. Manny Palmero

The agency said the incidents revealed gaps in hospital protocols, particularly during the holiday season when staffing is limited. Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said the department is considering alert systems similar to the U.S. Amber and Silver alerts, which notify law enforcement and the public when children or vulnerable individuals go missing. “This is a time of the year when thefts happen. We will strengthen our protective measures,” he said, noting that while hospitals already use identification tags for babies and patients, criminals can exploit lapses in vigilance. Other proposed measures include stricter monitoring of entrances and exits, tighter identification requirements, and increased attention in maternity and pediatric wards. The alert followed the abduction of a newborn from Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center in Marikina on Dec. 26 at around 11 p.m. Police said CCTV footage showed a woman dressed as a nurse approaching mothers on the fourth floor and asking who had not yet completed newborn screenings. One mother, caught off guard, handed over her baby and medical records, while two others refused. The suspect placed the baby in a bassinet and escaped through the emergency room, traveling by tricycle and private vehicle before being traced. A separate attempted kidnapping occurred Dec. 29 at Tondo Medical Center, where a nurse noticed a woman posing as hospital staff trying to take a newborn. Authorities said the suspect abandoned the baby when confronted and was immediately taken into police custody. The suspect told authorities she had suffered a miscarriage and acted out of fear of disappointing relatives who expected her to bring home a child. Charges for kidnapping and failure to return a minor have been filed against the suspect and her boyfriend.

EcoWaste urges public to ditch toxic firecrackers By Joel E. Zurbano

PNP reflects on major events, issues in 2025 THE Philippine National Police (PNP) described 2025 as a year marked by major operations, controversies, and institutional changes that placed the police force at the center of national attention. Early in the year, the PNP mourned the death of Col. Pergentino Malabed, who was killed in a plane crash near Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., while on official travel. The PNP also reported a significant drop in crime, with focus crimes declining by more than 26 percent during the first two months of the year compared with the same period in 2024. One of the most consequential events occurred in

March, when police arrested former president Rodrigo Duterte upon his arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, triggering protests and heightened security operations. Throughout the year, the PNP managed election-related security, leadership changes, high-prof ile investigations, and inter nal disciplinar y actions, including the dismissal of er ring personnel. Despite challenges, the PNP said it remains committed to strengthening public safety, improving police response, and upholding accountability as it moves beyond 2025. Vince Lopez

FOR THE FEAST. Shoppers

crowd the meat section of Commonwealth Market in Quezon City on Tuesday as families make lastminute purchases for New Year’s Eve, boosting demand for pork, beef, and chicken despite rising prices, with vendors expecting the rush to continue ahead of Media Noche. Edd Castro

AS New Year celebrations approach, the EcoWaste Coalition renewed its appeal urging the public to refrain from using firecrackers and fireworks. The group encouraged Filipinos to choose safer and more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as homemade noisemakers that do not emit toxic fumes. The initiative aims to reduce risks associated with traditional celebrations, especially for children, senior citizens, and people with health conditions. The call followed a recent incident in Tondo, Manila, where a 12-yearold boy died and his companion was injured after igniting an unexploded firecracker found on the street. Police said the explosion nearly severed the child’s right leg. EcoWaste stressed that firecrackers endanger children and animals and contribute to air pollution during the holiday season. “We need to abandon this dangerous and highly polluting tradition that harms respiratory health, terrifies pets, causes fires, and leads to senseless injuries, mostly involving children and youth,” said EcoWaste Coalition national coordinator Aileen Lucero. The group suggested alternatives such as using pots and pans as cymbals, repurposing empty cans as maracas, shaking containers filled with stones, seeds, coins, or bottle caps, honking bicycle or car horns, and playing music together to welcome a safer New Year.

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025

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NUP sees special poll to fill Acop’s unexpired term By Maricel V. Cruz THE National Unity Party has said it expects the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to hold a special election to fill up the vacancy for Antipolo City Second District following the death of Rep. Romeo Acop. Acop, an NUP stalwart, died of heart attack last Sunday at 78. NUP secretary general Reginald Velasco cited “constitutional and statutory bases for the conduct of a special election to fill Acop’s unexpired term.” “The constitutional basis for a special election is found in Article VI, Section 9 of the 1987 Constitution, which provides: ‘In case of vacancy in the Senate or in the House of Representatives, a special election may be called to fill such vacancy in the manner prescribed by law, but the Senator or Member of the House of Representatives thus elected shall serve only for the unexpired term,’” Velasco said. He said “the vacancy date is understood to be 20 December 2025, based on press reports and official announcements.” Acop was elected to a fresh, three-year term in the House of Representatives during the last May elections. His term in the current 20th Congress began on June 30, 2025. “The operative statutory rule governing House vacancies is found in Section 4 of Republic Act No. 7166, which provides: ‘In case a permanent vacancy shall occur in the Senate or House of Representatives at least one (1) year before the expiration of the term, the Commission on Elections shall call and hold a special election to fill the vacancy not earlier than sixty (60) days nor longer than ninety (90) days after the occurrence of the vacancy.” Velasco said. “Under this provision, where the vacancy occurs at least one (1) year before the end of the term, the special election is not discretionary. Comelec is required to call and hold the election within the statutory period,” he added.

QC cops solve baffling case of runaway bride By Vince Dizon THE medical and dental unit of the Quezon City Police has assessed the physical and mental conditions of missing bride Sarah Sherra De Juan following her rescue in Sison, Pangasinan on Monday, Dec. 29. The medical team reported nothing serious in her health save a feeling of nausea due to lack of proper diet she endured during her flight. The policemen, accompanied by De Juan’s family, fetched her following information that she was spotted in Pangasinan. “She is alive but appears to be disoriented,” said QC acting police chief Col. Randy Glenn Silvio. De Juan was reported missing since the afternoon of Dec. 10 after she went out of their house ostensibly to buy shoes for her wedding. Her fiancé, Mark Arjay Reyes, said he last saw her. at a gas station along Commonwealth Avenue corner Atherton Street in North Fairview, Quezon City, wearing black pants, black jacket, and a black shirt, and carrying nothing but a tumbler and a coin purse. When she failed to return home that night, her family decided to seek police assistance. As part of the investigation, the police went through her computer and found that she had been experiencing emotional distress and financial difficulties prior to the wedding. Further examination of De Juan’s laptop showed she had conducted online searches for medications that could even cause death, the effects of drug overdose, and similar topics before she went missing.

NEVER TOO LATE. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. posthumously confers the Order of Lakandula on the late Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Susan ‘Toots’ Ople in a ceremony at the Kalayaan Hall of Malacanang for being an extraordinary public servant whose legacy continues to protect and uplift overseas Filipino workers. Revoli Cortez

2025 sees vital changes in PH Catholic church hierarchy IN BRIEF T By Vito Barcelo

HE Catholic church leadership in the Philippines saw milestone changes in 2025, with six new bishops appointed and four others elevated to archbishops under Popes Francis and Leo XIV, reflecting a broad realignment in the religious hierarchy. At least two bishops were named by Pope Francis before his death on April 21. On March 4, the Pope appointed Rogationist missionary Herman Abcede as bishop of Daet, ending a vacancy that began in 2019 following Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon’s transfer to Caceres. Spain. Abcede was ordained and installed on May 1. Francis followed this with the April 2

appointment of Daet priest Ronald Anthony Timoner as bishop of Pagadian, a diocese vacant since the death of Bishop Ronald Lunas in January 2024. Timoner’s episcopal ordination and installation were held on Aug. 13. The last Filipino bishop appointed by Francis was Glenn Corsiga of Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, named about a week before the pope’s death. A priest of the Diocese of Dumaguete, Corsiga was ordained

on July 29 and installed on Aug. 14, filling a see vacant since the 2023 transfer of Archbishop Julius Tonel to Zamboanga. Pope Leo XIV made his first Philippine episcopal appointment on May 16, naming Dave Capucao of the Prelature of Infanta to succeed retired Bishop Bernardino Cortez. Capucao was ordained and installed on Sept. 5, coinciding with the prelature’s 75th founding anniversary. Leo later appointed Edwin Panergo bishop of Boac on Oct. 4, succeeding Bishop Marcelino Antonio Maralit Jr., who was transferred to San Pablo in 2024. Panergo, a priest of the Diocese of Lucena, was ordained Dec. 1 and installed Dec. 2. On Nov. 21, Leo named Divine Word missionary Samuel Agcaracar bishop of San Jose in Nueva Ecija. Agcaracar is scheduled for episcopal ordination on Jan. 17 and installation on Feb. 6, succeeding Bishop Roberto Mallari, now head of the Diocese of Tarlac.

Lift travel tax for Pinoys, Asean nationals—solon A LEGISLATOR on Tuesday proposed the abolition of the travel tax on Filipinos and nationals of ASEAN states leaving the country to boost tourism and promote fair and affordable trips within the Southeast Asia region. Exempting certain sectors from paying this tax is unfair to other travelers and makes the Philippines less competitive in the booming $59 billion tourism market of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), especially when most of the members in this regional bloc have already removed similar levies, Parañaque Second District Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan explained. “Why make exemptions when everyone can benefit, which is why we are proposing through House Bill 4793 that the government abolish the travel tax altogether for Filipinos and other ASEAN nationals leaving the country and visiting other ASEAN member-states,” Yamsuan said. Maricel V. Cruz

AFP spokes lands 10th in online top 100 Pinoys

OLONGAPO FIESTA. Members of a dance troupe perform along Magsaysay Ave. in Olongapo City as a highlight of the city’s fiesta celebration on Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025. Joseph Muego

Sta. Cruz, Laguna police chief reaps multiple awards for excellent service By Roy Tomandao

MULTI- AWARDED COP. Sta. Cruz, Laguna police chief Lt. Col. Jojo Sabeniano reaps multiple awards, including a Gawad Pilipino trophy, for sustained excellence in public service, particularly in the field of peace and order. Roy Tomandao

STA. Cruz, Laguna police chief Lt. Col. Jojo Sabeniano has received multiple awards including a Gawad Pilipino trophy for exemplary service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to public service. Sabeniano, concurrent spokesman of the Laguna provincial police force, said the recognitions were the result of continuous hard work, integrity, and commitment to the community. He emphasized that achievements of an outstanding police officer are rooted in selfless service and genuine concern for the people, adding that the commendations belonged not only to him but also to the entire police force who consistently serve with professionalism

and honor. Among the awards conferred on him during the Gawad Pilipino Lingkod Bayan Awards 2024 consisted of the Lingkod Bayan Awards and Outstanding Uniformed Personnel of the Philippines, held on November 19, 2024, at the AFP Commissioned Officers Club House in Camp Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City. The event honored public servants who demonstrated excellence and compassion despite the many challenges of public service. On June 12 last year, Sabeniano also copped the Gawad Pilipino 2024 – Huwarang Malaya sa Pagtatanggol sa Bayan Award during a ceremony at Eurotel Hotel, Quezon City, as part of the celebration of the 126th Philippine Independence Day.

ARMED Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla has landed in the honor roll of LinkedIn’s Top 100 Filipinos for Inspiration and Learning, a recognition highlighting individuals whose voices and insights have made an impact on the professional networking platform. In a statement, Padilla said her inclusion in the list was both surprising and humbling, noting that the recognition goes beyond personal achievement and reflects the values of service and purpose. “Seeing my name listed as 10th in LinkedIn’s Top 100 Filipinos for Inspiration and Learning was both surprising and humbling—proof that even in a feed filled with trends, noise, and algorithms, stories rooted in service and purpose still resonate,” she said. Rex Espiritu

‘P1.35-t education fund a winner for students’ SENATOR Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV on Tuesday described the ratified 2026 national budget as a major victory for Philippine education and young people, citing the record P1.35-trillion allocation as the largest education funding package in the country’s history. Voting in favor of the budget, the Aquino said the unprecedented level of funding for the education sector was designed to translate into tangible support for learners nationwide, particularly those from low income families and underserved communities. Ram Superable

OPINION

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

FEATURE

Why Sara Duterte cannot evade responsibility in DPWH leaks THE so-called “DPWH leaks” have reopened an old but unresolved question in Philippine governance: who truly bears responsibility for the systematic manipulation of the national budget during the Duterte administration? As more details emerge linking senior officials and political figures to specific public works allocations, Vice President Sara Duterte finds it increasingly difficult to distance herself from a controversy that strikes at the heart of fiscal accountability. According to a report from the Bilyonaryo News Channel, at least 16 line items amounting to ₱1 billion were included in the 2020 budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways at the request of then Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte. These projects—mostly road works, with 15 located in Davao City and one in Davao del Sur—were eventually enacted into law as part of the General Appropriations Act . Two of the line items were explicitly listed under her name. This revelation is politically significant. While requesting projects for one’s locality is not, by itself, illegal, the context matters. These alleged insertions surfaced amid broader claims of widespread and systematic “budget insertions” involving members of the Duterte family and close allies of the previous administration. ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio, House deputy minority leader, argues these disclosures undermine any attempt by the Vice President to claim moral or political distance from the DPWH controversy. Tinio’s assertion is not merely rhetorical. He points out that the ₱1 billion allegedly linked to Sara Duterte is separate from the far larger ₱51-billion allocation reportedly associated with Davao City Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, a figure earlier cited by the late DPWH Undersecretary Cathy Cabral. Taken together, these figures suggest not isolated requests but a pattern of privileged access to public funds. What is most disturbing is the implication that such practices were normalized at the highest levels of power. Tinio argues that it was during the 2016–2022 period that what he calls “walang kapantay na pandarambong” of the DPWH budget took root. If true, this would mean that the problem was not simply a few rogue officials exploiting loopholes, but a system that enabled political insiders to funnel enormous sums into favored projects with minimal scrutiny. The alleged involvement of former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque and Senator Bong Go further strengthens this argument. BNC reports that Roque had four requested projects across various provinces, two

of which were eventually included in the GAA. Meanwhile, Bong Go, who has long faced allegations of influencepeddling, was also cited by Tinio as having benefited from the system while in power. The geographic spread of these projects suggests that influence over the DPWH budget was not confined to one region, but extended nationwide. Defenders of the former administration might argue all these items passed through Congress and were therefore legal. But legality is not the same as legitimacy. The budget process is meant to balance national priorities, guided by transparency and equity.

—“—

The DPWH leaks are a test, not just for Sara Duterte, but for the nation’s commitment to accountability When line items are reportedly inserted at the request of powerful individuals, often outside open deliberations, it raises serious questions about fairness and governance, even if formal procedures were technically followed. Vice President Duterte’s current position makes this issue even more sensitive. As the country’s second-highest official, she is expected to embody integrity and accountability. Claims that she benefited from the same practices now under scrutiny weaken her moral authority to speak on corruption or good governance. Silence or outright denial, without a willingness to submit to independent scrutiny, only deepens public skepticism. At this stage, what is most urgently needed is a comprehensive and impartial investigation covering the entire Duterte administration. Limiting inquiries to select individuals or recent years risks turning accountability into a political weapon rather than a genuine reform effort. If public trust is to be restored, all officials—regardless of rank, surname, or current position—must be held to the same standard. The DPWH leaks are a test, not just for Sara Duterte, but for the nation’s commitment to accountability. Will we allow billions in public funds to be treated as private spoils, or will we demand that those entrusted with power answer for their actions? The answer will shape not only the legacy of the Duterte family, but the future of Philippine democracy itself. (Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

MAIL MATTER

Open Letter to Gen. Nicolas Torre III, MMDA General Manager Dear Sir. WE ARE among the countless people in and outside of the country inspired by your appointment as General Manager of MMDA. I humbly represent, together with several dozen members, dependents of Philippine military personnel. I am a member of the board of directors of the Sons and Daughters of the Defenders of Bataan & Corregidor (S&DDBC). As an army brat, sir, my kababata and I are proud, happy and hopeful of your success and future as an important management tool to address Metro Manila’s challenging issues. In this regard we send you our best wishes for your success. We also ish that you and your able men can please focus on the following blights in Metro Manila that have been there seemingly unattended to for a long time. Everyone knows how bad MM’s traffic situation is and we know you are aware of that as among your primary concerns. So we choose to instead draw your attention, sir, to MM’s “unseen but strongly felt unsettling and disturbing issues.” Our thoughts: 1. Garbage—with all the money being reported squandered by unscrupulous

elements in government and returned, we earnestly suggest, sir, that you look into (a) developing a modern and comprehensive garbage collection program that includes simple placement in strategic locations of large heavy metal disposal bins in city neighborhood areas and for contents to be collected weekly by modern mechanically operated garbage trucks that will be run by trained personnel. There are dozens of samples of this updated system in neighboring countries; (b) require ALL public places and interiors of malls to provide garbage cans that are visible to all and easily accessible; with all the hoopla about restaurants, excellent Filipino food and specialty eating places, MMDA has as yet NO EFFORT to require setting up of public toilets with all-hours of running water and flushable bowls to be available or accessible. Why? Modern cities all have these sanitary facilities! 2. Sanitation -- Can the MMDA seek help/invite the Dept of Health to jointly address a critical sanitation problem in the MM area? (d) Has the MMDA ever attempted to look into human waste disposal systems in the whole metro area? Are

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What are we doing New Year’s Eve?

HE year that ends today seems so fast and so slow at the same time.

It seems fast because we were simply caught up with surviving from day to day, only to see the holidays creep up from behind us. January 2025 started much like any other new year – filled with hopes but tempered with realistic expectations and some room for disappointment. It seems slow because the problems do not appear to end. Indeed, every new day brings not a promise of hope but a guarantee of more infuriating revelations. At the start of the year, Filipinos’ main challenge was how to survive with the soaring cost of goods and services with their meager salaries. There were concerns about finding jobs and better opportunities. These dominated the people’s concerns as we continued to hope for a better quality of life. There was divisiveness on the arrest of a former president and his incarceration in an international court for crimes against humanity. Coping with disasters was also an issue, with more intense and more frequent weather systems coming into the Philippine Area of Responsibility and causing losses in lives and livelihood.

The State of the Nation Address in late July, however, occasioned a shift in the nation’s perspective. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., citing recent flooding incidents in many places in the country, directed a full-blown investigation into flood-control projects. “Mahiya naman kayo!” were his famous words, repeated several times. In response, many officials present at the Batasan stood up and applauded those words.

—“—

This is where that “mahiya naman kayo” exhortation seems to have brought us. What we know in greater detail today exposes the utter hypocrisy of those who applauded and the sheer tragedy of the people who pay for these officials’ salaries through the taxes they toil for. The second half of the year, thus,

was marked by the revelation of a deeply entrenched and widely practiced scheme of making insane amounts of money in the guise of flood-control projects. These eclipsed the series of earthquakes and typhoons in many parts of the country. The flooding from the typhoons was a constant reminder of the utter disservice done to us by socalled public servants. We saw theatrics from those proclaiming their innocence, piles of cash piled on tables, fleets of luxury vehicles. There was the death of a public works official and the erosion of confidence in our systems and our leaders. We kept talking about transparency but somehow there was always a way to justify exceptions to the call. We end 2025 with relief, because at least we get a chance to think about how best to approach the coming year. Of course, there should be allowances for surprises, too -- just look at how the surprises of 2025 overwhelmed us. Before we cross over into the new year tomorrow, may we allow ourselves to pause and sit still. The year was not easy, but what year is easy, anyway? In both our individual and societal capabilities, may we have the humility to acknowledge our failings, resolve to do better, and then begin anew by doing the right things, the right way.

Grace found in broken time

IT WAS an uneasy year. Some would call it an annus horribilis—a horrible year—especially for Philippine politics. From one controversy to the next, trust eroded, tempers flared, and institutions strained under public doubt. The impeachment debacle cast a long shadow over democratic processes. Election euphoria faded quickly into skepticism. Then came the flood control scandals, layering suspicion upon disappointment and frustration. As if political storms were not enough, nature asserted its own force. Typhoon after typhoon battered communities, leaving behind destruction and grief, but also quiet stories of courage and survival that rarely reached the headlines. If time were measured only in kronos—the ticking of clocks, the turning of calendar pages—this year would feel like a long, jarring ride we could not step away from. But the Greeks also had another word for time: kairos—God’s perfect time. The kind of time not measured in minutes, but in meaning. It’s the time when purpose shows itself, even in the middle of chaos. It is the time that asks us to pause, reflect, and decide who we are becoming. Perhaps that is what this year has been asking of us. What appeared to be an annus horribilis may also be, quietly and painfully, an annus mirabilis—a year of awakening, a year when grace found its way through the cracks. But grace, like growth, is rarely easy. Change is messy. And when things fall apart, maybe that’s the moment we’re being invited to rebuild—not just the systems and

structures, but also our values, our priorities, our ways of showing up for each other. As we stand at the edge of the year’s end, three small but important invitations echo in the heart: Be thankful. Let go. Move on. Gratitude may sound misplaced after a year that felt so heavy. But gratitude does not deny pain. Sometimes it simply acknowledges endurance. We say thank you not because the year was perfect, but because even in its hardest moments, there were flashes of goodness—acts of kindness, moments of courage, reasons to keep going. Gratitude softens the heart and keeps bitterness from becoming our default response.

human waste exit pipes in the MM area inspected, maintained and updated? We urge MM government to specially focus on informal settlements, esteros and river banks. Needless to say, the health of city people is at stake and supervision of this is a must! Every time there is street flooding, we shudder to think how vulnerable MM folks are! Former Senator Trillanes grimly pointed out how children in his city neighborhood have died from infection after walking through filthy flooded city streets. 3. City Cemetery management systems—Please investigate how public cemeteries in MM have been silently invaded by informal settlers complete

with electrical connections and mini stores. This is either a case of weak enforcement of laws or some MM government people are corrupted. 4. Illegal Parking exists almost everywhere along private apartment areas and interior streets. Fire trucks and ambulances responding to emergencies cannot get through such tight passages. 5. Sidewalk vendors set up wares everywhere and greatly affect pedestrian mobility. What MMDA agency is regulating this? 6. Public transportation pick up points and waiting areas along main roads are unsupervised. Observe that these sites with pedestrians and riders occupy whole lanes at peak hours which contribute greatly to traffic congestion.

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

—“—

May the year ahead be gentler to our hearts, kinder to our nation, and truer to our shared dreams To let go doesn’t mean pretending it didn’t hurt. It means choosing not to let it harden you. It means forgiving even when you can’t forget, and accepting that some answers won’t come right away. It means understanding that not everything broken needs fixing. Some things need releasing. Some endings are necessary so something new can begin. Letting go is not weakness; it is

wisdom. It is the refusal to let the past imprison the present. Moving on doesn’t mean rushing into the next thing, ignoring the lessons of the past. It means walking forward with more clarity, more conviction, more courage. It’s about reimagining what’s possible—not just for yourself, but for the country. It’s choosing to build better, not just rebuild. It’s deciding to hope, even when it’s easier to be cynical. It’s believing that the next chapter isn’t written yet—and that you have a part in shaping it. This nation has survived worse. And we’ve come through stronger each time. If we allow it, this year can become more than a string of broken headlines and unmet expectations. It can mark a turning point—a reckoning that leads to renewal. Kairos rarely announces itself with noise or spectacle. It arrives quietly, often in the aftermath, asking us whether we will merely recover or choose to be transformed. So before the first light of January breaks, let us look back with honesty and tenderness, not bitterness. Let us carry forward only what strengthens us: the lessons learned, the compassion discovered, the resolve forged under pressure. Everything else—the anger that drains us, the blame that divides us—we leave behind. As we step into the new year, may we do so not with denial or fear, but with steady courage. May the year ahead be gentler to our hearts, kinder to our nation, and truer to our shared dreams. And may we meet it ready—not just hoping for better days but committed to helping bring them about. Happy New Year! 7. Sphagetti wires -- These ugly black strings hanging all over city streets and neighborhoods can contribute to fire hazards. Can MMDA work with Meralco and telephone companies to regulate these UNSUPERVISED overhead wire connections in city areas? They are clear signs of backward planning and MM management should consider underground placement instead as in other modern Asian cities. We respectfully submit these concerns to you, sir, with prayers and hope you will be able to address them soon. CONRADO N. RIGOR, JR. S&D-DBC Friends, Incorporated (Old) Fort Wm McKinley, Taguig, Rizal

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Russia says Ukraine attacked Putin’s home, Kyiv calls it ‘lie’

LIVE-FIRE TRAININBG. A Taiwan Air Force Mirage 2000 fighter jet takes off at Hsinchu Air Base in Hsinchu on Monday after China launched ‘major’ military exercises around Taiwan in what it called a ‘stern warning’ involving live-fire drills in waters and airspace near the island. Beijing warned on Monday that “external forces” arming Taipei would “push the Taiwan Strait into a perilous situation of imminent war”, but did not mention any countries by name. AFP

KYIV—Russia accused Ukraine on Monday of having fired dozens of drones at one of President Vladimir Putin’s residences, an accusation that Ukraine called a “lie” aimed at undermining US-led efforts to end the war. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who does not typically announce drone strikes, said Ukraine had fired “91 long-range unmanned aerial vehicles” at Putin’s home in the Novgorod region between late Sunday and early Monday, all of which were shot down. “Given the complete degeneration of the criminal Kyiv regime, which has shifted to a policy of state terrorism, Russia’s negotiating position will be reconsidered,” Lavrov said, without

elaborating or providing evidence for Russia’s assertions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called Russia’s claim “a complete fabrication” designed to undermine the peace process, but US President Donald Trump -- who held a call with Putin earlier Monday -directed his criticism at Kyiv. “I don’t like it. It’s not good,” Trump told reporters of the alleged attack at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. “You know who told me about it? President Putin told me about it.” “It’s a delicate period of time. This is not the right time,” Trump added. Russia’s accusation comes at a pivotal moment in the peace process. AFP

China fires rockets on Day 2 of military drills B EIJING—China launched missiles and deployed dozens of fighter aircraft and navy vessels around Taiwan on Tuesday for a second day of live-fire drills aimed at simulating a blockade of the self-ruled island’s key ports and assaults on maritime targets.

The two-day war games, codenamed “Justice Mission 2025”, began Monday and were slammed by Taipei as “highly provocative and reckless.” China claims Taiwan as part of its sovereign territory and has refused to rule out military action to seize the island democracy. AFP journalists in Pingtan – a

Chinese island that is the closest point to Taiwan’s main island -- saw a volley of rockets blast into the air on Tuesday morning at around 9:00 am (0100 GMT), leaving trails of white smoke. At least 10 rockets were launched in quick succession, each sending a booming sound reverberating

throughout Pingtan as they soared across the sky. Tourists rushed towards wooden barricades overlooking the sea, whipping out their phones to snap photos and videos of the rockets. China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) said in a statement shortly after that it had “conducted long-range live fire drills in the waters to the north of the Taiwan Island and achieved desired effects”. The latest show of force follows a bumper round of arms sales to Taipei by the United States -- Taiwan’s main security backer -- and comments from Japan’s prime minister that the use of

Yemen declares emergency state as conflict flares RIYADH—The leader of Yemen’s presidential council declared a state of emergency and cancelled a security pact with the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday after Abu Dhabi-backed separatists seized swathes of territory. “The Joint Defense Agreement with the United Arab Emirates is hereby cancelled,” a statement said, while a separate decree announced a 90-day state of emergency including a 72-hour air, sea and land blockade. The announcements by Rashad al-Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council, come after the Saudi-led coalition fighting in divided Yemen said it struck a UAE weapons shipment destined for the separatists. The UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (SCT) forces have swept through the south of Yemen this month, taking most of resource-rich Hadramawt province and swathes of neighboring Mahrah. Alimi ordered the SCT to hand over the territory to Saudi-backed forces, calling the separatists’ advance an “unacceptable rebellion” in a televised address. The confrontation risks tearing apart the already fractured Yemeni government, which has different factions backed by oil-rich Gulf powers Saudi Arabia and the UAE. It also threatens slow-moving peace negotiations with the Iranbacked Houthi rebels, who ousted the government from the capital Sanaa in 2014, triggering a military intervention by the Saudi-led coalition. AFP

force against Taiwan could warrant a military response from Tokyo. China’s top diplomat Wang Yi said Tuesday in a speech in Beijing that China would “forcefully counter” large-scale US weapons sales to Taiwan, adding that any attempt to obstruct China’s unification with the island “will inevitably end in failure.” Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te vowed Tuesday in a Facebook post that the territory would not be “escalating the conflict” or provoke disputes. China on Tuesday morning said it had deployed destroyers, frigates, fighters and bombers “to conduct drills on subjects of identification and

TRUMP WARNS HAMAS. US President

Donald Trump (right) and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shake hands as they arrive to speak to journalists during a joint press conference at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida, on Tuesday, Manila time. Trump hosted Netanyahu for crucial talks on moving to the next stage of the fragile Gaza truce plan. The two leaders also discussed Iran, with Trump saying that if Tehran rebuilt its nuclear facilities the United States would ‘knock them down.’ AFP

Trump warns both Iran, Hamas if it fails to disarm in Gaza PALM BEACH—US President Donald Trump warned Iran of fresh strikes and said Hamas would have “hell to pay” if it fails to disarm in Gaza, as he presented a united front with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday. Speaking at a news conference with Netanyahu in Florida, Trump threatened to “eradicate” any attempt by Tehran to rebuild its nuclear program or ballistic missile arsenal following US and Israeli strikes earlier this year. Trump also downplayed reports of tensions with Netanyahu over the second stage of the fragile Gaza ceasefire, saying that Israel had “lived up” to its commitments and that the onus was on Palestinian militant group Hamas. “If they don’t disarm as they agreed to do, then there will be hell to pay

for them,” Trump told reporters at his lavish Mar-a-Lago resort. “They have to disarm in a fairly short period of time.” Hamas’s armed wing reiterated earlier on Monday that it would not surrender its weapons. Netanyahu said it had been a “very productive” meeting and announced that Israel was awarding Trump its highest civilian honor—the first time it has gone to a non-Israeli citizen. Trump, the self-proclaimed “president of peace,” has been keen to move onto the next phase of the Gaza truce, which would see a Palestinian technocratic government installed and the deployment of an international stabilization force. While some White House officials fear Netanyahu is slow-walking the

process, Trump said he had “very little difference” with the Israeli premier and was “not concerned about anything that Israel’s doing.” During their fifth meeting in the United States since Trump’s return to power this year, Netanyahu also appeared to have steered the US leader toward focusing on Israel’s concerns about Iran. Israeli officials and media have expressed concern in recent months that Iran is rebuilding its ballistic missile arsenal after it came under attack during the 12-day war with Israel in June. AFP

verification, warning and expulsion, simulated strikes, assault on maritime targets, as well as anti-air and antisubmarine operations.” A statement from the PLA’s Eastern Theater Command said the exercises in the waters to the north and south of the Taiwan Island “tested capabilities of sea-air coordination and integrated blockade and control.” Announcing the drills on Monday, military spokesman Shi Yi said they were “a stern warning against ‘Taiwan Independence’ separatist forces, and... a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China’s sovereignty and national unity.” AFP

US pledges $2-b for UN aid, with ‘adapt, shrink or die’ warning GENEVA—Washington has pledged an initial $2 billion for United Nations humanitarian aid in 2026—far less than it has provided in recent years—warning UN agencies to “adapt, shrink or die”. With its pledge, announced at the US mission in Geneva alongside UN aid chief Tom Fletcher, the United States is pursuing a dramatic overhaul of how it funds UN humanitarian work. Instead of handing funds to individual agencies, the United States will funnel its contributions through the UN aid agency OCHA, headed by Fletcher, which earlier this year launched a so-called Humanitarian Reset to improve efficiency and accountability. The US funds—welcomed by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres—will then be distributed to 17 selected countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, Myanmar, Sudan and Ukraine. The UN’s Central Emergency Response Fund, which provides swift aid as new emergencies erupt or when existing crises rapidly deteriorate, will also receive a tranche of money. “It is an initial anchor commitment,” Jeremy Lewin, the senior US official for foreign assistance, humanitarian affairs and religious freedom, told reporters. AFP

Police say Bondi Beach mass shooting suspects ‘acted alone’ SYDNEY—A father and son accused of a mass shooting at Australia’s Bondi Beach “acted alone” and were not part of a wider terrorist cell, police said on Tuesday. Sajid Akram and his son Naveed allegedly killed 15 people in an ISIS-inspired attack targeting a Jewish festival on December 14. The pair travelled to the southern Philippines in the weeks before shooting, fueling suspicions they may be linked to extremists in a region with a history of Islamist insurgencies. Australian Federal Police commissioner Krissy Barrett said so far this did not appear to be the case. “These individuals are alleged to have acted alone,” she told reporters. “There is no evidence to suggest these alleged offenders were part of a broader terrorist cell, or were directed by others to carry out the attack.” Barrett said police would continue to probe why the pair travelled to the city of Davao, where CCTV showed they barely left their budget hotel. “I want to be clear. I am not suggesting they were there for tourism,” she said.

Police believe the duo “meticulously planned” the attack for months, and have released pictures showing them training with shotguns in the Australian countryside. They also recorded a video in October railing against “Zionists” while sitting in front of a flag of the Islamic State jihadist group, police have said. Sajid Akram, 50, was shot and killed by police during the attack. An Indian national, he entered Australia on a visa in 1998. His 24-year-old son Naveed, an Australian-born citizen, remains in custody charged with 15 murders and a litany of other serious offences. New Year’s Eve parties across Sydney will pause at 11 p.m. on Wednesday for a minute of silence in memory of the victims. Crowds will be watched over by squads of police carrying high-powered firearms, New South Wales state premier Chris Minns said on Tuesday. “That is a clear and deliberate message from the police that safety is the number one priority,” he told reporters. AFP

NEW MODEL. US Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Assistance, Humanitarian Affairs and Religious Freedom Jeremy Lewin (left) exchanges documents with United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher during the signing ceremony of a $2 billion pledge of United States for United Nations humanitarian aid in 2026, at the US Mission in Geneva, on Monday. AFP

SPORTS N

OTTINGHAM —A dozen girls whizzed around an English karting track, part of a pioneering drive to draw women into motorsports and maybe even race to the top in male-dominated Formula 1.

A special test day in October in Nottingham aimed to address a major gender gap in F1, one of the flashiest of sports. Italian Lella Lombardi was the last woman to compete in an F1 Grand Prix in 1976, and the absence of women on the circuit is linked to young girls’ limited exposure to motorsports, according to gender parity organisations. More Than Equal, a non-profit that supports women drivers, said girls start karting two years later than boys on average. Seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton, for example, got into the format aged just eight. “These are the first steps that a girl could take,” Cameron Biggs, coaching and academy pathway manager at Motorsport UK, told AFP. “We’re really trying to join the dots between grassroots and elite.” The enthusiasm was palpable among the youngsters, who were mostly new to karting. Some attended the taster day, supported by makeup company Charlotte Tilbury, after watching F1 while others were encouraged by their parents. None seemed put off by F1’s breakneck speed, the thrumming engines and the prospect of driving a vehicle years before they are old enough to have a driver’s licence. “On the second time, I came first and I’m very proud,” beamed 11-yearold Megan. “I watch Formula 1 quite often, and so I kind of know how to get around the track,” said Erin, also 11. F1 paradox F1’s official website boasts a global fanbase of 827 million people -- a 63 percent increase since 2018. But there is a paradox: F1 is one

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025

Race to find Formula 1’s 1st-ever woman champ

A girl is given instruction during a TeamSport Go Karting girl only taster session in Nottingham, central England. A dozen girls whizzed around an English karting track, part of a pioneering drive to draw women into motorsports and maybe even race to the top in male-dominated Formula 1.

of the world’s few non-gendersegregated sports yet one of the most male-dominated. “We know that the pathway for female drivers hasn’t successfully got a woman into Formula One competitively in the last 50 years,” More Than Equal’s head of driver development Lauren Forrow told AFP. That means that girls are “not thriving within” the current system, she said.

The organization has pledged to “make history” by training a woman not just to compete but to win. “We know that this is a real challenge and that it’s never been done before,” CEO Tom Stanton told AFP. More Than Equal lists limited access to motorsports at an early age, cultural and structural biases, sponsorship gaps and a lack of role models at the top as barriers obstructing women’s entry into F1.

Infantino defends World Cup ticket prices, cites crazy demand DUBAI—FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Monday defended controversial ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup, revealing that organisers had received a record 150 million requests for tickets in the past two weeks. Speaking at the World Sports Summit in Dubai, Infantino stressed that all revenues from next year’s tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada would be pumped back into football around the world. Infantino’s comments were his first public remarks since the ticketing furore erupted earlier this month, with fan groups branding ticket prices as “extortionate” and “astronomical”. FIFA later responded to the criticism by announcing that a sliver of tickets on sale would be priced at $60. In the last few days, you’ve probably

seen there is a lot of debate about ticketing and ticket prices,” Infantino told the Dubai conference on Monday. “We have six, seven million tickets on sale and we started two weeks ago. I can tell you in two weeks, 15 days, we received 150 million ticket requests. This shows how powerful the World Cup is.” Infantino said the majority of ticket requests had come from the United States, followed by requests from Germany and Britain. “If you think that in 100 years of history of the World Cup, FIFA has sold 44 million tickets in total, so in two weeks for the next World Cup, we could have filled 300 years of World Cups,” Infantino said. “This is absolutely crazy.” “And what is important, what is crucial is that the revenues that are generated from this are going back to the game all over the world and FIFA is

In The Red Corner Nissi Icasiano

debates Filipinos know by heart. Judging was questioned. Age was scrutinized. Legacy was argued once more. Win or lose, the message was unmistakable. No boxer still commands the nation’s imagination quite like “Pacman.” Even without a decisive verdict, his presence reminded everyone why his shadow continues to stretch across every Filipino who dreams with gloves on. That sense of history deepened with the 50th anniversary of the original “Thrilla in Manila.” The commemorative card, titled Thrilla in Manila II, was more than a tribute. It was a reminder to the world that the Philippines is not only a producer of topcaliber pugilists but sacred ground in

LOS ANGELES—Zane Gonzalez kicked a winning 51-yard field goal as the Atlanta Falcons held off a Los Angeles Rams comeback to score a 27-24 victory in the NFL on Monday. The Rams, who have already clinched a playoff berth, had gone into Monday’s game in Atlanta hoping for a win to boost their postseason seeding. But the 2022 Super Bowl champions found themselves chasing the game as already-eliminated Atlanta roared into a commanding half-time lead. Running back Bijan Robinson stood out for Atlanta in a dominant first-half display, rushing for a career-long 93-yard touchdown to give the Falcons a hefty 21-0 advantage at the break. Robinson had already opened the scoring after gathering a short pass from Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins in the first quarter to put Atlanta 7-0 up. Jessie Bates then picked off Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford for a second quarter touchdown to help Atlanta take a 14-0 lead before Robinson’s long-range effort left the Falcons in complete control. Yet the Rams responded to a disastrous first two quarters to level the game in the second half. Stafford found Terrance Ferguson with a 27-yard pass to help cut the Falcons’ lead to 14 points before Jared Verse rumbled 76 yards for a touchdown after a blocked Gonzalez field goal attempt. Stafford connected with receiver Puka Nacua to tie it at 24-24 with just under three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, but Atlanta responded by moving Gonzalez into field goal range after the restart. Gonzalez made no mistake with his game-winning effort, and the Falcons held on as Los Angeles fell to 11-5. AFP

Elba, Lionesses recognized in UK Honours’ list

FIFA president Gianni Infantino

the only organisation in the world...that finances football in the entire world. “Without FIFA there will be no football in 150 countries in the world. There is football thanks to these revenues that we generate from the World Cup which we reinvest all over the world.” Fan group Football Supporters Europe (FSE) had been among the most prominent critics of FIFA’s pricing strategy for 2026. AFP

Philippine boxing found its pulse again in 2025 THERE was a stretch, not too long ago, when Philippine boxing felt like it was merely surviving on memory. When Manny Pacquiao announced his retirement in 2021 to pursue politics, the silence that followed was impossible to ignore. Fights continued. Gyms stayed open. Yet the emotional core of the sport felt hollow. In 2025, that emptiness finally gave way to movement again. It did not happen through nostalgia alone. It happened through moments that demanded attention and fighters who refused to wait for permission. Nothing this year carried the same pull as Pacquiao’s return. When he stepped into the ring at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in July to challenge WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, it instantly became bigger than the bout itself. The fistic sensation for General Santos City did not need to dominate to make his point. Brief flashes of rhythm and defiance were enough to force a controversial majority draw and reopen

Forrow said the organisation’s unique Driver Development Programme “acknowledges the physiological, psychological and technical differences” women face, such as the impact of menstruation on athletic abilities and daily life. These realities “inform what the kind of right recipe is for supporting female athletes in this space”, she said, of the programme created for young female racing drivers. AFP

Falcons hold off Rams’2nd-half comeback to win

boxing history. The action matched the symbolism. Melvin Jerusalem successfully defended his WBC minimumweight title against Siyakholwa Kuse with calm authority. Eumir Marcial endured a punishing battle with Eddy Colmenares that tested resolve more than it showcased highlight potential. Carl Jammes Martin demonstrated his durability by going the distance against former world title challenger Aran Dipaen. Meanwhile, Marlon Tapales authored a sixthround knockout of Fernando Toro. The night was not about crowning a single hero. It was about showing depth. Elsewhere, Pedro Taduran quietly became one of the year’s most dependable world champions. He made two successful defenses of his IBF minimumweight crown, each one fought at a relentless pace. Kenneth Llover, meanwhile, ensured his name could no longer be ignored. Four wins in a single year, all by knockout, extended his unbeaten record to 17 and positioned him for a possible world title shot in 2026. These were not cer-

LONDON—Actor Idris Elba and members of England’s triumphant Women’s Euro 2025 football team were among famous Britons recognised in the country’s traditional New Year Honours on Monday. Ice dancers Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, and players from England’s victorious Women’s Rugby World Cup-winning squad were also honoured, according to the list. Elba, known for his roles in hit TV series “The Wire” and “Luther”, was knighted for services to young people, having founded an international charity that helps support disadvantaged youngsters. “I hope we can do more to draw attention to the importance of sustained, practical support for young people and to the responsibility we all share to help them find an alternative to

violence,” said Elba, who becomes a sir. Torvill and Dean, who won Olympic gold at the 1984 Winter Games in Sarajevo and clinched multiple world and European titles, were knighted for their contribution to ice skating. The pair said becoming a dame and a sir respectively was “wonderful and humbling at the same time”. More than 1,150 people received gongs in the latest list, which is decided by an honours committee. King Charles III and other leading members of the royal family hand out the awards at ceremonies during the year. England’s “Lionesses” featured heavily on the list after their Euros win in the summer, with captain Leah Williamson made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). AFP

emonial victories. They were earned under pressure. Still, 2025 was never going to be a smooth ride. Charly Suarez’s WBO super featherweight title bid in May made that painfully clear. If Pacquiao’s return revived old arguments, Suarez’s encounter against Emanuel Navarrete exposed boxing’s unforgiving nature to a new audience. Suarez entered as a decorated amateur, finally given his chance on the biggest stage. What followed was one of the year’s most debated contests, marked by questionable officiating and momentum halted by circumstances beyond his control. The initial ruling, a technical decision loss, felt unjust to many. While the verdict was later changed to a no contest, the lesson remained. Talent alone does not guarantee fairness in this sport. Then there was Nonito Donaire Jr., who continued to refuse a quiet exit. Early in the year, he captured the interim WBA bantamweight title with a technical decision win over Andres Campos. He once again challenged every assumption tied to age and decline. Later, his unification attempt against Japan’s Seiya Tsutsumi ended in defeat. No belts were merged. No fairy-tale ending fol-

lowed. Yet there was clarity in that result. Donaire was not chasing gold for nostalgia. “The Filipino Flash” chased them because he still believed he belonged. There was no shame in that conclusion. This is why 2025 mattered. It was not a year defined by coronations. It was a year defined by exposure. We saw how legends still shape the sport, how prospects are tested by forces beyond raw ability, and how greatness sometimes ends not with celebration but with acceptance. Philippine boxing this year reminded us of something uncomfortable yet honest. “The Sweet Science” gives nothing freely. Every victory is negotiated. Every defeat is scrutinized. Every career is shaped by timing as much as talent. And still, Filipino boxers showed up. They raised their fists. They steadied their heads. They took whatever the year gave them. That persistence, more than belts or sentimentality, is why boxing continues to stand its ground in this country. (For comments or questions, reach the author at nissi.icasiano@gmail. com or visit his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/nissi.icasiano.)

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025

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

Nuggets reel from Jokic injury; Thunder rout Hawks

CHRIS NEWSOME IN ACTION.

Skipper Chris Newsome, shown here barreling his way inside, provided leadership for the Bolts on Sunday, when he struck with 31 points, including 18 in the fourth period as Meralco beat Rain of Shine, 98-89, to advance to the semifinals.

Bolts welcome high-stakes semis duel with Tropang 5G By Peter Atencio

HE defending champion Meralco Bolts are back in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup semiﬁnals, and they relish the challenge of battling a PBA titan -the TNT Tropang 5G. For Bolts’ coach Luigi Trillo, facing TNT in a best-of-seven series is exactly what the defending champions desire. “This is what they (the team) want,

go through the best. So nandiyan ang TNT. Now, this is going to be a good series,” Trillo declared. Acknowledging the magnitude of the upcoming matchup, Trillo emphasized TNT’s pedigree and recent success. “This is special. They (TNT) had their numbers quite a lot. In the last season, they won two conferences and missed one title. Now, they are very, very solid. It’s going to be a battle for us,” he added, highlighting the difficulty and excitement of the looming Sunday clash. The Bolts, showcasing their grit and resilience, earned their 14th semifinal appearance in franchise history after completing a sweep of the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, winning Game 2 of their quarterfinal clash 98-89 on Monday at the Araneta Coliseum. Trillo lauded his team’s character, which was tested

while juggling the PBA schedule with games in the East Asia Super League. The coach recalled the team’s difficult start in the eliminations with a 3-4 win-loss record, putting them on the brink of elimination. However, three straight clutch wins resurrected their campaign and propelled them into the quarterfinal round. “Just proud of the resilience of this team. When we were down, 3-4, won three straight. This is special,” Trillo said. Skipper Chris Newsome led the charge for the Bolts in the clincher, scoring 31 points, with 18 coming in a decisive fourth-quarter explosion. In the other semifinal bracket, the San Miguel Beermen will face off against the Barangay Ginebra Kings.

Gan shines in Singapore junior golf tournament By Randy M. Caluag RISING Filipina golfer Nicole Gan stamped her brilliance by winning the Girls’ Class B division of the 31st Junior Invitational Golf Championship, hosted by The Singapore Island Country Club (SICC) recently at the Bukit Course. The 14-year-old standout from Immaculate Conception Academy showcased poise beyond her years, cruising to a runaway 14-shot victory across 54 holes to show her growing stature in the junior golf scene. Despite a shaky start that saw her open with two bogeys, Gan quickly regrouped, steadying her play over the back nine and maintaining control of the field the rest of the way. Gan finished the tournament at nine-over-par, a total that not only secured her the Class B crown, but also earned her a podium finish

in the overall girls’ standings. She placed third overall, finishing behind Class A champion Yisoo Min of South Korea, further highlighting the quality of her performance against a strong international field. The victory marked Gan’s second triumph on Singapore soil in as many years. She previously captured the Singapore Junior Masters in 2024, reinforcing her reputation as a consistent performer in regional competitions and signalling her continued upward trajectory in junior golf. Meanwhile, fellow Filipino Geoffrey Tan also saw action in the boys’ division, turning in his best round of the tournament with a 74 to finish 10th overall at 18-over-par. China’s Lixuan Chen emerged as the winner of the Boys Class B division.

Nicole Gan (right) receives her trophy. JGFP

Ex-heavyweight champion Joshua ‘stable’ after fatal road accident in Nigeria SAGAMU, Nigeria—Former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua was in a “stable condition” in hospital after a car accident in Nigeria that killed two close friends and associates, his promoter announced on Monday. Matchroom confirmed police and media reports that he was involved in the smash, which happened on Monday morning on a main road linking Lagos and Ibadan in the southwest of the country. Pictures circulating online showed a shirtless Joshua -- a British national of Nigerian heritage -- surrounded by what appeared to be broken window glass on the seats around him. His promoter said the boxer’s “close friends and team members” Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele were killed and Joshua himself was taken to hospital “for checks and treatment”. “He is in a stable condition and will remain there for observation,” a statement read. “Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected –- and we ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.” Police in Ogun state, just north of

Lagos, said the circumstances around the wreck were “currently being investigated”. Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling economic capital, throngs with visitors from across the country and

diaspora each December. Police said the accident occurred around 11:00 am local time (1000 GMT) in the town of Makun, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps

A damaged 18-wheeler truck from a road accident that reportedly involved British boxer Anthony Joshua is towed away on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway near Sagamu. Joshua suffered ‘minor injuries’ in the fatal car accident that killed two people on December 29, 2025, Nigerian police said.

(FRSC) said the Lexus Joshua was in “was suspected to be travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit on the corridor, lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into a stationary truck... by the side of the road”. However, a witness who gave his name as Kunle told AFP: “The truck was not stationary when the accident happened.” “People rushed to help without even knowing those inside the car,” the 27-year-old said. “It was when we got there we realised it was Anthony Joshua that’s inside.” The FRSC said that Joshua’s car was towed to the police station in nearby Sagamu. Joshua’s family hails from the southwest Nigerian city and he is known to visit there when he is in the country. Photos released by the FRSC showed a totalled black SUV, and what appeared to be blood on the road. An AFP reporter on the scene Monday evening saw the 18-wheeler truck that Joshua’s car was said to have hit being towed off the highway. AFP

LOS ANGELES—Nikola Jokic suffered a “gut-wrenching” knee injury as the Denver Nuggets crashed to a heavy 147-123 defeat against the Miami Heat in the NBA on Monday. Three-time NBA Most Valuable Player Jokic exited in the final seconds of the first half of Denver’s loss in Miami after an accidental collision with team-mate Spencer Jones. The 30-year-old Serbian superstar collapsed to the court in agony after his left leg appeared to buckle after Jones stepped on his foot while attempting to defend a drive. Jokic, who had scored 21 points, did not reappear for the second half and Miami capitalised to outscore the Nuggets 84-60 after the break to cruise to victory. Nuggets coach David Adelman said the team had yet to determine the severity of Jokic’s injury. The center will undergo an MRI scan on Tuesday. “All I know is that Jokic has a left knee injury and he needs to go through the process. I watched it at half-time and it looked like he got his feet tangled up. He knew immediately something was wrong,” Adelman said. “This is part of the NBA. Anyone who gets hurt, it’s gut-wrenching. Especially someone as special as he is. We’ll find out more tomorrow and move on as a team. “I’m more concerned about him as a person and the disappointment of going through something like that. It’s unfortunate and we’re hoping for the best... it sucks, but hoping for the best tomorrow.” Thunder rout, Spurs lose The Nuggets are already dealing with an injury crisis that has left them deprived of regular starters Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun. The issue of player injuries in the NBA has been in the spotlight this season, with players such as San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama and Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo spending significant time on the sidelines. AFP

Nikola Jokic

Japan footballer King Kazu signs for new team at 58 TOKYO—Japanese football legend Kazuyoshi Miura said his passion for playing the game was as strong as ever after signing for a third-division team at the age of 58 on Tuesday. Miura, known as “King Kazu”, will join Japan’s Fukushima United on loan until June for what will be his 41st season as a professional footballer. He will turn 59 in February. “My passion for football hasn’t changed, no matter how old I get,” the former Japan international said in a statement issued by his new club. “I’m very grateful to be given the opportunity to play in Fukushima, and I will fight hard as a member of Fukushima United. “Let’s make history together!” Miura spent last season with fourthtier Atletico Suzuka, making seven appearances as the team were relegated to Japan’s regional leagues after finishing second-bottom of the table and losing a playoff. His move to Fukushima sees him return to the J. League -- the top three divisions of Japanese football -- for the first time in five years. Miura said he was ready to “take on a new challenge” with Fukushima, who finished 10th in the 20-team third division last season. “To all the Fukushima United players, coaching staff, fans, sponsors and people in the local area, I promise that I will play with everything I have to make a contribution,” he said. Miura made his professional debut in 1986 for Brazilian team Santos and he has also played for teams in Italy, Croatia, Australia and Portugal. AFP

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025

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BUSINESS

Filipino-Chinese business group supports reforms in tax audit THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) on Tuesday expressed support for a government initiative to restrict the misuse of tax audit instruments, saying the move would boost investor confidence and economic growth. Department of Finance Secretary Frederick Go led the reform to introduce rigorous measures curtailing the misuse of Letters of Authority (LOAs) within the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). The business group described the measure as a pivotal advancement in governance that aligns with calls for transparency and the equitable application of the law. The FFCCCII said the engine of the economy requires systemic clarity and ease of doing business to encourage investments necessary for sustainable

growth. Arbitrary or overreaching enforcement actions erode the confidence needed for businesses to expand and create jobs, according to the group. FFCCCII president Victor Lim said the action by Go transcends mere procedural adjustment and represents an investment in confidence. By instituting greater transparency and accountability in tax audit processes, the government protects the integrity of institutions and fuels innovation, Lim said. The federation said it has consistently advocated for a balanced approach where enforcement and taxpayer protection serve as complementary pillars of the fiscal ecosystem. It noted that practices such as audits exceeding their scope, overlapping investigations and a lack of digital traceability create uncertainty that discourages both compliance and capital.

CHRISTMAS OUTREACH. Prime Infra Foundation, the social responsibility arm of Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc., continues to bring the holiday cheer to communities through its annual Christmas outreach. Now on its third year, Paskong Prime Infra reached over 80,000 beneficiaries in Metro Manila, Pampanga, Laguna, Batangas, Cavite, Rizal and Cebu.

Gov’t bullish on 2026 trade, investments T By Othel V. Campos

HE Philippines is preparing for a significant year in trade and investment as the country assumes the ASEAN chairmanship in 2026 to highlight business opportunities to regional partners.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque said the hosting role would allow trade ministers to engage directly with local business leaders and ex-

plore opportunities firsthand. The ASEAN Trade Ministers’ Meeting is scheduled to take place in the Philippines from March 11 to 13, 2026. While deputy-level meetings are set for

January, the March summit is designed to provide a platform for direct interaction between regional ministers and the Philippine business community. Organizers originally planned to hold the event in Boracay, but moved the venue to Manila to ensure greater accessibility for businesses located in key economic hubs. The DTI plans to prioritize sectors with high growth potential such as renewable energy, minerals, semiconductors, the creative economy, women-led enterprises

and the development of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The strategy also emphasizes digitalization and artificial intelligence. Roque said the government intends to conduct major business matching sessions so regional partners can fully observe the Philippine economic landscape and investment setup. The department is also preparing for initiatives like the ASEAN-Canada trade partnership, with formal negotiations expected to proceed fol-

lowing discussions between the two heads of state last year. Although specific targets remain under definition, officials anticipate concrete outcomes as these talks progress. The 2026 chairmanship represents a shift toward in-person engagement, moving away from virtual meetings or discussions limited to deputies. Roque noted that this is a chance for regional partners to see the country’s best practices and specific sector opportunities directly.

Malaysian firm breaks ground on P950-m Batangas project

ELECTRICAL SAFETY. As New Year festivities approach, the Manuel Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco) reminds the public anew to prioritize electrical safety to ensure a safe and accident-free celebration. Meralco crews and personnel will remain on alert 24/7, even on New Year’s Day, to keep the lights on for its over 8 million customers and help ensure bright and worryfree celebration.

MALAYSIAN-BACKED Amplefield Malvar Inc. broke ground on a P950-million industrial development at the LIMA Technology Center in Malvar, Batangas on Dec. 17, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of its affiliate, CAM Connectivity (Phils.) Inc. The project involves the construction of 13 standard factory and warehouse buildings and an SME Park designed for lease or sale to export-oriented enterprises registered with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA). PEZA director-general Tereso Panga said the investment would expand the availability of ready-for-occupancy industrial spaces in Batangas while strengthening trade ties between Malaysia and the Philippines. Amplefield Limited, the Malaysian parent company, is funding the project to boost foreign investment in the region. The Malaysian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has endorsed the development, which

aims to support supply-chain-driven enterprises. “In PEZA, we say investments grow when they are invested right,” Panga said during the ceremony. He said the agency is committed to protecting foreign investments and supporting business growth within Philippine ecozones. The groundbreaking highlights the long-term presence of Amplefield in the country through its subsidiary, CAM Connectivity. Operating since 1995, CAM Connectivity has evolved from precision manufacturing into a onestop shop for design, assembly and black anodizing services for the electronics, automotive and aerospace sectors. The firm employs more than 200 Filipino workers at its facility in the Light Industry & Science Park II in Laguna. Panga also inspected other highgrowth ecozone locators, including solar module manufacturer Tidesolar Ph Corp. Othel V. Campos

2025, annus horribilis for the Philippines

—“—

IN THE 1997 Christmas Day speech that she delivered to the British people amid the public outrage generated by the tragic death of Princess Diana a few months earlier, the late Queen Elizabeth II used two Latin words to describe the year that was about to end. 1997, Her Majesty said, had been an annus horribilis - horrible year – for the British nation and the Royal Family. The same Latin words can very well be used to described the Filipino nation’s 2025. The year that is about to end has been a horrible year – an annus horribilis – for this country. One can go further than that: 2025 has been the worst year for this country in its entire eight- decade history as an independent nation, with the exception of martial law year 1972. Four things combined to make 2025 an annus horribilis for the Philippines: the floodcontrol projects scandal, the impeachment of the Vice President of the Republic, higher tariffs on Philippine exports to the U.S. and the

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC Notice is hereby given that an Apostilled Deed of Extrajudicial Partition of the late HENRY CHARLES FORBES, who died intestate, and survived by his heir, Mr. Shaun Alan Forbes as per Doc. No. AFAF-XS-35399, respectively, before Atty. Steven Michael Clark, a Notary Public for and in City of Adelaide, Australia. (MS- DEC. 17/24/31, 2025)

2025 presented a situation that the nation had never faced in its eight decades of independent existence: every person in the Constitutional line of succession to the Presidency was accused, or was facing a charge of violation of his or her oath of office. International Criminal Court’s arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Throw in the slowing of the economy in the year’s second half, and you have a truly horrible year. Starting with the historic exchange/import control scandal of the 1950s, the operations of the Philippine government have always been attended by corruption of one degree of another. But the nature and scope of the flood - control projects scandal of 2025 is unlike anything that this country has ever seen. The conspirators – representatives, senators, contractors and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials – have been dealing with one another in terms of billions, not million, of pesos of public money. The sizes of the conspiratorial payments made to members of both Houses of Congress have been mindboggling, and the Filipino people are outraged. The scandal has caused deep and far-reaching damage to this country’s governmental system, which is largely based on the assumption that the men and women who the citizenry votes into office will use their authority for the progress and wellbeing of the people. In 2025 Filipinos learned that the members of Congress used their democratically obtained power to serve their personal ends, not the nation’s. The damage caused to this country by the floodcontrol projects scandal has extended beyond its shores. It has given the international community – especially the sources of investments and credit - the impression of a poorly managed bureaucracy

and of a government unable and unhulling to Speaker Martin Romualdez on account of the steadfastly devote the nation’s resources to its scandal. economic development. As a time of turmoil and disunity generated by the The administration of President Ferdinand attempted impeachment of Vice President Duterte, Marcos Jr. has taken step to try and convince a the arrest in March of former President Duterte by skeptical citizenry that it is serious about correcting the International Criminal Court further inflamed CYAN MAGENTA BLACK the situation and exacting accountability from YELLOW partisan and regional disunity at a time when the all the apparently guilty parties. Towards the end nation needed stability and political cohesion to of 2025 the general sentiment is that the Marcos confront the headwinds that the economy was Administration is not totally committed to the idea beginning to face, especially the 19 percent later of cleaning up the horrendous mess, as evidenced 20 pesos tariff imposed on Philippine exports by by the fact that the persons widely believed to be the newly installed administration of US President the proverbial big fish have yet to be charged. Donald Trump. Whatever the Marcos administration does in the The subsequent exemption of exports of semidays immediately ahead, one thing is clear: the nation conductors and other electronic products - these has by no means heard the last of the flood-control comprise around 52 percent of total Philippine projects scandal. The hugeness of the amounts stolen exports - from the tariff greatly reduced the from the public coffers will see to that. potential damage to this country’s merchandise 2025 presented a situation that the nation had trade balance. never faced in its eight decades of independent In the year’s only positive 2025 saw the existence: every person in the Constitutional line of continuation of the rate- easing cycle of the Bangko succession to the Presidency was accused, or was Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). The 25-basis-points facing a charge of violation of his or her oath of cut in December – the fifth for the year – reduced office. Former Rep. Zaldy Co, now a fugitive from the central bank’s overnight barrowing rate to 4.5 justice, has accused President Marcos of being percent. The easing was made possible by benign one of the principals in the flood-control projects inflation, the slowing of the economy in the third scandal. quarter and the probable lower growth in the year’s Vice President Sara Duterte was impeached last quarter in the wake of reduced government and is about to be impeached again. Former investment spending. The inflation rate settled at Senate president Francis Escudero was said to 1.5 percent in November, bringing 2025’s 11– have benefited from the scandal and charge are month average to 1.6 percent. apparently being readied against former House (llagasjessa@yahoo.com).

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BUSINESS

B3 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025

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PH stock market seen rebounding DOTr to start building 3 new next year on reforms, earnings EDSA Busway By Jenniffer B. Austria

HE Philippine Stock Exchange Inc. (PSE) expects an improved equities market performance in 2026 supported by growing corporate earnings, attractive valuations and potential regulatory reforms following a lackluster 2025.

PSE president Ramon Monzon said the proposed amendments to real estate investment trust (REIT) rules and public float requirements for companies planning to go public would likely boost list-

ings next year. The benchmark index fell 7.3 percent in 2025 from a year ago to close at 6,052 on Dec. 29, 2025. “The corruption scandal, the deteriorating peso and the disappointing GDP per-

DHSUD wants tax exemptions for economic housing THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the Department of Trade and Industry-Bureau of Investments are studying a proposal to classify economic housing as corporate income taxexempt mass housing. DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling said the initiative aims to establish a clearer and more predictable tax incentive framework for economic housing projects under Batas Pambansa Bilang 220. The proposed study seeks to align the tax treatment of economic housing with that of socialized housing to expand access to affordable homes for the working class. Aliling said a clear and orderly system for economic housing would accelerate the response to housing needs and strengthen private sector confidence. The move follows a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to adopt a whole-of-government approach in providing decent and affordable housing. The proposal follows the recent issuance of Revenue Memorandum Order No. 048-2025 by the Department of Finance and Bureau of Internal Revenue. The order introduced a uniform process for tax exemptions for both socialized and economic housing projects to streamline industry regulations. The DHSUD and DEPDev previously issued Joint Memorandum Circular 2025-001 to adjust price ceilings for socialized housing under the government’s flagship 4PH Program.

formance for the third quarter have clouded our economy’s outlook and triggered persistent selling by foreign investors in the market this year,” Monzon said. Monzon said listed company earnings are poised for continued growth, which makes valuations and dividend yields attractive. He said if the government succeeds in improving transparency and governance, the Philippine market could be one of the best performing in the region in 2026. Despite the index decline, the PSE reported that total capital raised from the sale of primary and secondary shares and warrants jumped 75 percent

to P144.14 billion in 2025 from P82.37 billion in 2024. Only two companies conducted initial public offerings—Top Line Business Development Corp. and Maynilad Water Services Inc. Eight companies conducted followon offerings, while 14 raised capital through private placements. The average daily value turnover increased 20.10 percent to P7.33 billion from P6.10 billion a year earlier. Domestic market capitalization fell 6.29 percent to P13.65 trillion from P14.57 trillion in 2024. The market also posted net foreign selling of P51.78 billion for the year.

Charter Link Clark Inc. employees line up to receive their monetary claims following the company’s closure, as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Clark Satellite Office reported an orderly and systematic payment process, with 399 out of 477 affected workers having acknowledged and received their full benefits.

stations in 2026

By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Tuesday it will begin construction on three new EDSA Busway stations in 2026 to improve the efficiency and accessibility of the capital’s dedicated bus lane system. The new stations will be located in Cubao, Magallanes and the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX). President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed the agency to enhance the busway’s time and motion to encourage more commuters to utilize public transport over private vehicles. DOTr Road Infrastructure Undersecretary Mark Steven Pastor said the contract for the project was awarded this month. Construction is scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2026 and reach completion by the fourth quarter of the same year. “We will have 3 new stations on the EDSA Busway. These will be in Cubao, Magallanes and PITX because we want to strengthen and speed up our time and motion here on EDSA when we travel via public transportation,” Pastor said in a radio interview. The modernization efforts also include the inauguration of the new Kamuning Station in the first quarter of 2026. The facility features dedicated elevators and escalators designed to assist persons with disabilities, senior citizens and pregnant women. Pastor said the Kamuning site has ongoing construction for a new footbridge that is separate from the MRT-3 rail system to ensure smoother transfers for bus passengers.

CDC, DOLE to host Jan. 9 job fair for displaced Charter Link workers CLARK Development Corp. and the Department of Labor and Employment will host a job fair Jan. 9 to assist workers displaced by the closure of Charter Link Clark Inc. The event aims to provide immediate employment opportunities within the Clark Freeport Zone and surrounding areas. This initiative follows the closure of the firm, which has already begun settling financial obligations with its workforce. According to a Dec. 22

RIPPLE8’S AWARD. Ripple8 Inc. managing director Bobby Vito (right) and managing partner Michelle Orosa-Ople receive the Bronze award at the Campaign Asia Philippine PR Agency of the Year 2025 on Dec. 9, 2025 ceremony at the Pan Pacific Orchard in Singapore. The milestone coincided with the agency’s 10th anniversary and reinforced its standing as a consistent regional awardee. Ripple8 is the full-service public relations arm of DDB Group Philippines.

ACEN hits 100% RE generation milestone By Alena Mae S. Flores ACEN Corp. said Monday it achieved 100-percent renewable energy generation across its portfolio earlier this year, completing a strategic transition from fossil fuels. The Ayala Group’s energy arm said in a statement it advanced a diversified set of projects in 2025. Solar energy accounted for 4,634 megawatts (MW), wind reached 1,957 MW, geothermal totaled 115 MW and battery energy storage stood at 304 MW. The company now operates exclusively on renewable energy and maintains a target of Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The milestone marks a significant shift from 2016, when the company reached 1,000 MW of capacity with a portfolio anchored on coal and only 2 percent renewable energy. ACEN president and chief executive Eric Francia said the milestone reflects a long-term strategy to align the company with the future of the energy system while supporting decarbonization in a commercially disciplined way. The company has reshaped its strategy over the last decade by redirecting capital and building capabilities to scale clean energy while taking steps to exit coal.

report from the DOLE Clark Satellite Office, the payment process was systematic, with 399 out of 477 affected employees receiving their full monetary claims. The remaining workers, currently residing in various provinces, are expected to claim their benefits in 2026. DOLE regional director Geraldine Panlilio confirmed that the agency has activated a Quick Response Team to profile the displaced staff. This team will iden-

tify necessary interventions ranging from direct job placement to specialized livelihood programs. Panlilio said the partnership with CDC is central to ensuring these workers secure new positions as quickly as possible. CDC president and chief executive Agnes VST Devanadera said that while the corporation respects the internal management decisions of its locators, transparency remains a priority for the stability

of the Clark community. Devanadera said CDC is collaborating with multiple agencies to maintain access to sustainable livelihood programs for those affected by the shutdown. The upcoming fair will feature various locators and regional employers. CDC officials advised interested applicants to monitor official social media channels for venue details and a list of participating companies.

BUSINESS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025

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

PH net external liabilities rose to P3.7t in 2nd quarter By Thony Rose Lesaca

FX BRIEFING. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Director Jodeth Niña R. Yeung (left) speaks to stakeholders during a

nationwide information drive held this year in Davao City. During the sessions, Yeung explained how the BSP has simplified FX procedures and streamlined the registration process for certain foreign investments, as well as recent reforms in the FX derivatives market. The briefings which were also held in other cities support the BSP’s efforts to liberalize and clearly communicate the FX regulatory environment to local banks, industry associations and exporters.

THE Philippines’ net external liabilities increased 7.1 percent to P3.7 trillion in the second quarter of 2025 as non-financial corporations sought more foreign financing and government borrowing rose, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Monday. The BSP said the figure was up from P3.5 trillion in the previous quarter. The rise in liabilities was led by non-financial corporations (NFC) increasing their external financing through equity and investment fund shares, alongside a rise in loans owed by the general government to nonresidents. NFC net liabilities grew 1.8 per-

IT-BPM revenue to hit $42b in 2026 T By Othel V. Campos

HE Philippine information technology and business process management industry is projected to generate $42 billion in export revenues in 2026 as it nears a milestone of 2 million workers, according to the sector’s primary trade group. The Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) expects 2026 revenues to grow 5 percent from the projected $40 billion in 2025. Employment is forecast to reach 1.97 million workers by 2026, following a 4-percent increase in the workforce this year.

IBPAP president and chief executive Jack Madrid said the focus moving into 2026 is to relentlessly upskill the workforce and embrace highervalue work. Madrid said the industry continues to work closely with government, academe and investors to keep the Philippines at the heart of global services.

Momentum for the coming year is underpinned by the expansion of global capability centers. Investments from multinational firms in 2025 deepened operations in healthcare, financial services, analytics and technology-enabled services. Artificial intelligence adoption is expected to further boost export revenues by improving productivity and service quality. The shift has increased demand for advanced skills in analytics, transformation, project management and strategy support capabilities. The industry’s outlook improved following the 2025 passage of the CREATE MORE Act and clearer Philippine Economic Zone Authority

rules regarding work-from-home arrangements. These policies eased investor concerns regarding incentives and operational flexibility. To meet the demand for higher-value roles, IBPAP expanded workforce initiatives with the government and schools. These programs include enterprisebased training and digital access support for public schools to better align the talent supply with market needs. Investor sentiment has shifted toward long-term planning, with expansions extending beyond Metro Manila. Growth is increasingly concentrated in regional hubs including Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Davao, Cagayan de Oro and Clark.

IN BRIEF

Rotary Center condemns office closure by QC gov’t

THE Rotary Center Foundation Inc. condemned on Tuesday the forcible closure and padlocking of its headquarters by Quezon City government personnel during a postChristmas raid it described as an excessive show of force. The operation occurred in the early morning of Dec. 26 when about 70 personnel from the City Security Force, Building Office and Quezon City Police Department sealed access to the Rotary Center Building. Foundation officials reported that security guards and staff were detained inside the premises during the lockdown. Rotary Center Foundation spokesperson and past district Governor Chito Borromeo characterized the deployment as oppressive and disproportionate. Borromeo, who previously served as Quezon City Secretary to the Mayor, said the foundation has a 30-year record of public service and was once recognized as the most outstanding nongovernmental organization by the city. The closure stems from a dispute over a lease renewal for the city lot where the center is located. The Rotary Center Foundation Inc. said the matter is pending resolution before the Court of Appeals. Legal counsel for the foundation sent a letter to Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and the Business Permits and Licensing Office on Dec. 23 to request that the city refrain from enforcement actions while the case is under judicial review.

CCC, energy alliance explore partnership

THE Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Philippine Energy Efficiency Alliance are exploring a partnership to support the Department of Energy in establishing energy efficiency as a primary climate change mitigation strategy. The two organizations discussed a potential memorandum of understanding to formalize their collaboration. The partnership aims to mainstream energy efficiency within the national climate agenda and mobilize climate funds to build technical and financial capacity for the energy service company sector. Climate Change Commission vice-chairman and executive-director Robert Borje said the government could not rely solely on renewable energy to decarbonize the sector. He said that energy efficiency should be embedded in consumer behavior and treated as an equally important pillar of the country’s climate mitigation strategy to optimize opportunities for reducing carbon impact across the economy. Philippine Energy Efficiency Alliance president Alexander Ablaza said in a statement that energy efficiency and conservation should be deployed at a larger scale than renewables to bridge a wide investment gap between 2030 and 2050. He called for a societal transformation toward a less energy-intensive economy, urging all energy endusers to comply with the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act. Alena Mae S. Flores

KB marks 21 years of promoting skin health

KB has maintained its position as a pioneer in the Philippine skincare supplement industry for nearly 21 years by promoting the benefits of glutathione and NAC for clearer and smoother skin. The brand utilizes branded raw materials approved by the Food and Drug Administration of the Philippines to ensure product quality and efficacy. The company said it focuses on providing solutions specifically formulated for Asian skin through its massmarket line, Masshiro Glutathione. Originally produced by its founding manufacturer, production has since transitioned to Asian White Skin Manufacturing while maintaining the consumer feedback that has sustained the brand’s market presence for over two decades. Affordability remains a central pillar for the brand despite varying costs across the supplement industry. The standard KB Glutathione plus NAC and KB Rosehips Vitamin C combination is priced at P1,195 for a 60-dose supply. The pricing strategy aims to keep high-quality antioxidants accessible to the Filipino market. For consumers addressing specific health concerns, the brand offers the KB Pure Form line. These premium variants include KB Pure Form Reduced Glutathione 500 mg priced at P4,500 for 60 capsules, KB Pure Form Liposomal Glutathione at P8,500, and KB Pure Form S-AcetylGlutathione 500 mg at P12,500.

EXPORTERS WEEK. The Department of Trade and Industry-Export Marketing Bureau, Export Development Council and Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. hold the National Exporters’ Week 2025 with its culminating event, the National Export Congress at Edsa Shangri-La Manila. Attending the event are (from left) Trade Undersecretary for Industry Development and Trade Policy Group Ceferino Rodolfo; DTI-EMB director Bianca Pearl Sykimte; Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Undersecretary Angel Ignacio; PHILEXPORT president Sergio Ortiz- Luis Jr.; Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque; EDC deputy executive-director Elsa Dela PazValenzuela; EDC ExeCom member/president of the Foreign Buyers Association of the Philippines (FOBAP) Robert Young; and PHILEXPORT trustee for non-metal sector and EDC Visayas representative Apolinar Suarez Jr.

cent quarter-on-quarter to P11.9 trillion. The BSP noted that the rest of the world and other financial corporations (OFC) increased their holdings of NFC-issued equity securities. Loans remained the primary funding instrument for the sector, followed by equity securities, with major financing sourced from the rest of the world and other depository corporations (ODC). The general government’s net debtor position climbed 1.3 percent from the previous quarter to P10.5 trillion. This growth was fueled by higher government securities held by the rest of the world, ODCs and OFCs, as well as an uptick in loans owed to nonresidents.

DTI continues price watch on basic goods THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau is intensifying efforts to ensure prices of basic necessities remain stable and compliant with a nationwide price freeze through the New Year. The agency said the initiative aligns with a presidential directive to prevent price increases on prime commodities during the holiday season. It said that from Nov. 11 to Dec. 23, monitoring teams inspected 661 firms across 16 cities and 1 municipality in Metro Manila following the declaration of a nationwide state of calamity caused by Typhoon Tino. An automatic 60-day price control is in effect from Nov. 6, 2025 to Jan. 5, 2026. The freeze was enacted under Presidential Proclamation No. 1077 in accordance with the Price Act, which mandates that prices for basic goods stay at prevailing levels in areas under a state of calamity. DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque led inspection teams at major retail outlets. Roque reported that supply remains adequate and many essential goods are currently priced below mandated levels. While compliance has been high, the department issued a show-cause order to 1 Metro Manila establishment for potential overpricing. Businesses found in violation of the Price Act face administrative or criminal charges, which may include fines and imprisonment. The Department of Agriculture and other agencies are also conducting joint supply monitoring to support the effort. These agencies have set maximum suggested retail prices on key food items, including imported rice and pork, to temper potential price spikes. Othel V. Campos

World Bank rates Cebu BRT project ‘unsatisfactory’ as delays mount THE World Bank has rated the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project implementation as “unsatisfactory” and issued a “high” overall risk rating, signaling deep skepticism that the transit system will be finished by its September 2026 deadline. The international lender released an implementation status and results report on Dec. 25, 2025 warning that the bulk of the remaining infrastructure could not be completed within the nine months left in the project cycle. While civil works package 1 is substantially finished and has received a partial taking over certificate, the capitol station remains incomplete, it said.

The report noted that critical milestones for civil works packages 2 and 3, specifically busways and stations, were behind schedule. It said that beyond physical construction, several “further actions” are unlikely to be finalized by the deadline, including the acquisition of terminal sites, resettlement of affected residents, securing road rights-of-way and establishing an institutional framework for operations and maintenance. Local officials also struggled to launch even the completed portions of the project. The inauguration has been postponed twice, first following massive flooding caused by Typhoon Tino on

Nov. 4 and again on Dec. 12 due to the scheduling conflicts of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Local authorities now indicate the ceremony may occur after the Sinulog 2026 celebration on Jan. 18. Approved on Sept. 26, 2014, the Cebu BRT was designed to modernize the urban passenger transport system in Metro Cebu. The project aimed to improve service quality, safety and environmental efficiency along the designated corridor. More than a decade after its initial approval, the World Bank report suggests the project’s goals remain out of reach for the immediate future.

PPA restores Eastern Visayas cargo flow after San Juanico Bridge weight hike By Darwin G. Amojelar PHILIPPINE Ports Authority (PPA) officials said Tuesday that logistics and traffic flow in Eastern Visayas have returned to normal following the lifting of weight restrictions on the San Juanico Bridge. The recovery follows a strategic shift between May and December 2025, when the PPA activated the Port of Amandayehan in Basey, Samar as an alternative to the Tacloban route to mitigate cargo congestion. The agency invested more than P400 million in infrastructure, including dredging, navigational aids and port expansion for roll-on/rolloff and landing craft transport vessels to support the transition. Congestion along major access roads in Leyte and Samar had disrupted the movement of commercial vehicles and essential goods after bridge authorities enforced strict load limits. In response to national government directives, PPA general-manager Jay Santiago identified the Basey facility as a viable interim alternative due to its proximity to Tacloban Port. During the peak restriction period between June and November 2025, these ports handled 2,632 shipcalls and 7,256 rolling cargoes.

EDUCATIONAL TOUR. Children from Barangay 660-A in Ermita, Manila

participated in ‘#AralLakbay,’ a read-along and interactive tour organized by the Center for Art, New Ventures, and Sustainable Development (CANVAS) in partnership with Nickel Asia Corp. As part of its commitment to advance youth literacy, the listed natural resources development company facilitated the second leg of its educational campaign in partnership with CANVAS, bringing together children to a read-along session, mask-making workshop and an interactive tour of CANVAS’ exhibit, 20 Years of Art and Stories, at the National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila.

COMMUNITY

SPOTLIGHT Revived in a glass: A cocktail with history

By Robert Harland IN 1970, while organizing a mixeddrinks competition in London for a British soft drinks company, I discovered that bartending is far more than a job — it’s a serious craft. That event introduced me to the United Kingdom Bartenders’ Guild (UKBG), a fraternity of masters whose artistry rivals that of chefs and sommeliers. Bartender associations aren’t unique to Britain. From the Philippine Bartenders’ League (PBL) to countless guilds worldwide, many are affiliated with

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025 DIGITAL.MANILASTANDARD@GMAIL.COM / DIGITAL.MKTG@MANILASTANDARD.NET PETER PAUL DURAN, Issue Editor

the International Bartenders Association (IBA). Together, they form a global network devoted to elevating the art of bartending - also called mixology. My collaboration with the UKBG came with enviable perks. As a young man, I could wander into London’s finest hotel bars and be treated to delicious cocktails on the house. For someone just starting out, it felt like stepping into a world of glamour and indulgence. The UKBG’s historic recipe book, Guide to Drinks, is a treasure trove of cocktails with names as evocative as their flavours: London Fog, Salty Dog,

Asian Babe. One entry in particular caught my eye — the Corpse Reviver, a “hair of the dog” hangover cure. There are several versions of the Corpse Reviver, the most famous appearing in the Savoy Cocktail Book. Its recipe calls for cognac, Calvados or apple brandy and Italian vermouth — a blend reputedly strong enough to “wake the dead.” The phrase Corpse Reviver dates back to 1861, when it appeared in Punch magazine. By 1871, recipes surfaced in the Gentleman’s Table Guide, and variations continued to appear in bar manuals

Filipinos reflect on change as the New Year begins By Lyschelle Joy Armijo

VERY time December comes to a close and January begins to approach, a familiar wave of traditions, beliefs, and trends resurfaces in Filipino culture.

From the announcement of the new color of the year, to lucky horoscopes, New Year’s resolutions, and the yearly motto of “new year, new me,” Filipinos eagerly take part in welcoming a fresh start. But beneath all the noise of customs and predictions lies a deeper question: What is the true essence of the New Year for every Filipino? Is it really about becoming something new—or holding on to what should stay? Each year, color experts—most popularly Pantone—reveal a color that reflects the global mood. This 2025, the Color of the Year was introduced as a shade meant to inspire renewal, emotional balance, and personal grounding. More than just a trend used in fashion, design, or social media posts, Filipinos have embraced this yearly announcement as a symbolic guide. Many believe wearing or surrounding themselves with the color brings good fortune, positivity, or motivation for the months ahead. For others, it’s simply a fresh visual start—an inspiration to repaint their spaces and refresh their outlook in life. But beyond colors, charms, and predictions, the New Year for Filipinos is deeply emotional and communal. On December 31 at midnight, as the clock strikes twelve, fireworks light up the sky and tables are filled with round fruits and traditional dishes. Families gather hand in hand, sharing laughter, gratitude, and wishes for the year ahead. It is not just the beginning of January 1—it is the beginning of new hope. One family that reflects this spirit is the Tanega family, who continue to welcome the New Year with warmth and togetherness despite their demanding schedules. With parents juggling work commitments and the children balancing school and extracurricular activities, finding shared time is never easy. Yet every December 31, they make it a point to pause, gather, and celebrate the arrival of a new chapter. For the Tanegas, New Year’s Eve is not just a holiday—it is a promise to reconnect, reset, and remind themselves that no matter how busy life becomes, their bond as a family remains their greatest source of strength.

Banana-leaf invention turns waste into work for Filipinos By Heherson Valdez WHAT was once agricultural waste is now

a source of income for Filipinos, thanks to a banana-leaf–based invention by chemist and educator Julienne Stephanie FabieAgapin. Through Unas Canvas (UnVas)—an eco-friendly canvas and lifestyle material made from dried banana leaves—FabieAgapin, a University of the Philippines Visayas–trained chemist, is addressing both livelihood gaps and sustainability concerns.

well into the early 20th century. By the mid-1970s, my career was taking me around the world as PR manager for an American soft drink company. In hotel bars from New York to Manila, I amused myself by asking for a Corpse Reviver. Bartenders usually stared blankly, clearly unfamiliar with the cocktail and its curious history. But at Tokyo’s Imperial Hotel, the staff rose to the challenge. One bartender disappeared into a back office, consulted a book, and reemerged minutes later with a glass of the legendary Savoy recipe.

Ripe for the season: Manila fruit vendors brace for NYE rush By Bernadette Araño

The Tanega family shares a moment together on New Year’s Eve as fireworks light up the sky behind them.

This sentiment mirrors the popular phrase that resurfaces each year: “Syempre, new year, new me.” This line continues to dominate social media every New Year’s Eve. For many, the start of the year symbolizes change— an opportunity to correct old habits, chase new dreams, and reinvent themselves. It is a promise to grow and improve, guided by the belief that everyone deserves another chance. But there is also the other side:

“New year, but the old self stays.” A phrase embraced by those who choose not to pressure themselves into drastic change. For them, the year may be new, but their core remains the same— strong, true to themselves, and grounded in what already makes them whole. They welcome the year not by becoming someone new, but by staying authentic and continuing what already works for them. In the end, the essence of New Year for every Filipino is not found in trends, pre-

Photo from Ms. Julienne’s Facebook account and Hiraya Pasalubong Shop Facebook Page

The initiative, supported by the Department of Science and Technology–Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI), did not originate in a laboratory but emerged from a real-world challenge faced by displaced workers and agricultural communities. In 2021, Ms. Agapin, an associate professor at Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) - Pagadian was approached by Mr. Jimmy Sorabia, chairperson of a cooperative for displaced OFWs. He sought support from the Department of Science and Technology and was referred to Ms.

Fabie-Agapin, who was leading a DOSTfunded project on bioplastics made from agricultural waste while also collaborating with persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) on handmade paper-making for livelihood. Mr. Sorabia challenged her to create a marketable product using dried banana leaves, an abundant agricultural waste often burned or left to rot, releasing harmful chemicals. Recognizing its potential for both environmental and social impact, Fabie-Agapin partnered with Sorabia and began experimenting with the material, eventually creating UnVas, a durable, paper-like

dictions, or outward displays of change. It lives in the balance of new beginnings and cherished constants. The New Year is both a celebration of what we hope to become and an appreciation of what we choose to keep. And perhaps, that is what truly makes the Filipino spirit remarkable—no matter how many years pass, we always welcome another chapter with hope, heart, and the belief that life will continue to bloom in its own beautiful way. sheet that could be transformed into home goods, accessories, and wearables. “The unas or dried banana leaves,the usual thing that they do there is to burn it or they are allowing it to degrade on their own, thereby releasing harmful chemicals in the process. So, with our initiative, instead of burning our dried banana leaves, we were able to convert it or to upcycle it into a material that becomes a source of income for our partner communities,” Fabie-Agapin shared. UnVas empowers partner communities to produce sustainable products such as accessories, home goods, and wearables. Agapin’s invention competed on the global stage with the support of DOSTTAPI’s Science and Technology Promotion for International Contest and Exhibits (SPICE) Program, winning a Silver Award at the 2024 Korea International Women’s Invention Exhibition (KIWIE). She was also part of Cohort 3 of DOSTTAPI’s Honing Innovations, Research, Agreements, and Negotiations of Government-Funded Technologies (HIRANG) 2.0, a program that provides consultancy, capacity-building, and financial support to enhance the investment readiness of spin-offs and startups based on DOSTgenerated and funded technologies.

SAMPALOC, Manila - While many residents eagerly prepare for the traditional countdown to the New Year, a different kind of reckoning takes place in every city’s markets—one measured not in seconds, but in kilos of fruits sold and coins earned. For fruit vendors, the holiday season is a time of long hours, relentless work, and the hope of earnin enough to support their families. Across the streets of Sampaloc, colorful stalls overflow with pineapples, grapes, bananas, and mangoes. Shoppers flock to these markets, stocking up for New Year celebrations, special meals, and family gatherings. For vendors, December is their busiest time of the year, when the flow of customers can make or break their month. Unlike the revelers enjoying fireworks and parties, vendors often work around the clock. Romeo, a longtime fruit seller, shares that during December, he sometimes sells 24 hours a day. “Dyan kami kumikita,” he said. “Sinasagad namin ang pagod namin sa pagtitinda tuwing December kasi maraming bumibili.” Yet even during the holiday rush, success is not guaranteed. Vendors must contend with unpredictable factors: the weather, supply issues, and fluctuating customer turnout. Romeo notes that outside of the holidays, business slows significantly. “Kahit hindi bagong taon nagtitinda kami, pero di ganito kadaming prutas na binebenta kasi wala masyadong bumibili,” he explained. The holiday season brings both opportunity and exhaustion. Many vendors skip personal celebrations to serve the growing crowd of buyers. Their work is a quiet but essential part of the city’s New Year preparations, ensuring families have fresh fruits for their festivities. Despite the long hours, the earnings often barely match the effort. “Di naman masyado malaki ang kita. Syempre depende pa din sa araw at dagsa ng mga customer.” Romeo admitted. For the vendors, the New Year is more than just a calendar change—it is a season of resilience and perseverance. While the rest of the city celebrates with fireworks and cheers, they measure their success in kilos and coins, embodying a quiet dedication that often goes unnoticed. The holiday spirit, for them, is not just in the celebration but in the relentless effort to provide, serve, and survive. As Manila welcomes another year, fruit vendors continue their tireless work, reminding the city that behind every festive table lies hours of preparation, sacrifice, and hardwork from those who keep the markets alive.

SHOWBIZ

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025 JULY 16, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor Alden Richards ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer takes on his first villain role JASPER VALDEZ, Writer in ‘Big Tiger’

Alden Richards

Alden Richards marks a new chapter in his move toward international filmmaking through ‘Big Tiger’

HERE’S a unique thrill in reaching a goal you’ve worked toward for years—the kind of satisfaction that comes from every step, every lesson, and every moment of growth along the way. It’s the point where ambition meets persistence, and long-nurtured dreams finally take shape. That’s exactly what Alden Richards is experiencing right now. Almost every year, since he became one of the prized possessions of GMA Network, we would meet with Alden before his birthday, where he would thank the press and talk about his plans for the new year, both for personal growth and his career. Over the years, we’ve often heard him say he wanted to go global or work with an international outfit to showcase Filipino talent. And now, just before the year ends, Alden announced that his film company, Myriad Corporation, is co-producing his upcoming international action film, Big Tiger. The project is a collaboration with two Los Angeles companies: Lux Angeles Studios, led by Matthew Macur, and Birns & Sawyer, a motion picture camera and production equipment company headed by Filipino businesswoman Maci Acevedo. Distribution and financing will be handled by Voltage Pictures in 2026. At a press conference on Dec. 21, Alden introduced his partners

Max Collin (left) and Katherine McNamara in a scene from the film

is breaking boundaries with ‘Big Tiger’ Very Wang

Nickie Wang

and the lead cast, which features Filipino actress Max Collins, American-Chinese actor Byron Mann (Wu Assassins, Street Fighter), and American actress Katherine McNamara (Shadowhunters, Walker: Independence). The film’s director, Keoni Waxman (The Keeper, Deadly Crossing, The Ravine), was also present. Alden explained how the project came together. “My representatives for Myriad have been flying to Los Angeles for the past two years to look for collaborators,” he said. “And it was our negotiations with Matthew, Maci, and Nicolas that finally pushed through. A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step, and this is a great first step for Myriad. We’ve only been in the business for three years pa lang po, so we’re just getting started.” He added, “We’re so blessed to have met these people—Matt, Miss Mari, Keoni, and the rest of the crew. They gave me so many opportunities, and at the end of the day, it’s always about the right people getting into the right projects. Hopefully after this, Myriad can go global full on.” His partners are equally enthusiastic about Philippine talent. Mari Acevedo revealed, “In 2026, we’re planning a slate of nine to ten films to bring production to the Philippines. This is to showcase talent both in front of and behind the camera. They’re just very impressed with what we have here.” Matthew Macur added, “With the changing movie market, you have to find new ideas and creative ways to make movies. Coming here was perfect timing, and the warmth and culture of the Philippines made us instantly want

Alden Richards (rightmost) is joined by American director Keoni Waxman (center) and the cast of ‘Big Tiger’ during the film’s official launch

to keep coming back.” Big Tiger is an action film, a genre chosen for its global demand. Alden will play a “bida-kontrabida,” a first for him after nearly a decade of protagonist roles. “It’s all so new to me. I’ve been dreaming about this kind of role,” he said. “Prep has been intense—stunts, body language, emotions. Constantly talking to the director, learning how to make this character different and fresh. It’s challenging, but exciting.” Director Keoni Waxman described the film as “an origin story set in a notorious prison where all the main characters meet. Not all of them are bad—some are good who may act badly—but the bad guys are worse than the good guys. It’s a world you question, and we chose the Philippines because it’s a great place to tell stories people haven’t seen and to create a world that feels real.” Working with the international cast and crew, Alden admitted he was initially nervous. “Siyempre intimidated at first, nahiya… ubusan ng English!” he laughed. “But everyone was so easy to work with. Para rin silang mga Pilipino in terms of being accommodating, at least that’s been my experience,” the 33-year-old actor said.

Purple Hearts Foundation

holds year-end outreach for nearby barangays THE Purple Hearts Foundation held a yearend outreach program for residents of nearby barangays, distributing gifts to 150 households during an event at Kryzl Farmland. The activity, titled “Purple Hearts Foundation Gives Back,” gathered families represented by parents and children, underscoring the group’s focus on family participation. The program ran from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and included gift distribution, games, and a communal meal.

The outreach was led by Love Kryzl and her siblings, who organized and took part in the activities. Families received grocery packages, while children were given toys. Games, raffles, and a shared lunch were also part of the program. During the event, Kryzl premiered her new music video, “Opo, Thank You Po,” a song centered on gratitude. The presentation formed part of the day’s program and was shown to attendees. The activity was carried out with support from the Purple Hearts Foundation, Purple Hearts Production, and staff from Kryzl Farmland and Kryzl Gamefarm. Organizers said coordination among the groups helped ensure the event ran smoothly. The program ended with a prayer of thanksgiving, as the foundation reiterated its commitment to continuing community outreach initiatives. Kryzl’s single “Opo, Thank You Po” is scheduled for official release this week, alongside its music video, on her Facebook page and YouTube channel. The song is currently available for streaming on Spotify.

Purple Hearts Foundation distributes gifts and shares a day of games, food, and community bonding

The cast members face one last supernatural reckoning as ‘Stranger Things’ returns for its fifth and final season on Netflix

‘Stranger Things’ set for final bow

THE hit sci-fi-horror series Stranger Things returns Friday with three new episodes from its fifth and final season, ahead of the grand finale on Jan. 1. Since its 2016 debut, the Netflix show has shattered streaming records, following a group of teenagers in a small American town battling supernatural creatures and a parallel universe. Star-studded cast: The series revived 1980s icons like Winona Ryder and featured Robert Englund of Freddy Krueger fame. Younger actors like Millie Bobby Brown and Finn Wolfhard have launched major careers, with the cast aiming for a “proper sendoff” for all characters. 1980s nostalgia: Creators the Duffer Brothers

drew inspiration from Freddy Krueger’s E.T., Nightmare on Elm Street, and Stephen King’s It. From retro fashion and hairstyles to Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” topping charts decades later, the show celebrates the era. Netflix phenomenon: Stranger Things has become one of Netflix’s most-watched series, with episodes costing tens of millions to produce and boosting the platform’s global influence. Marketing masterclass: Season five’s launch drew nearly 60 million viewers, with retailers like HMV in London and Galeries Lafayette in Paris creating dedicated show spaces. Fans have embraced the 1980s revival, from collectibles to shared nostalgia. Stranger Things universe: The franchise has expanded to the West End and Broadway with Stranger Things: The First Shadow, a prequel exploring villain Vecna’s backstory. Netflix plans a 2026 animated spin-off set between seasons two and three, while a mystery novel about Nancy Wheeler has just been released.

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

C3 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025

People of 2025 Stars who kept the spotlight throughout the year

By Jasper Valdez

ROWTH and expansion have become routine when it comes to the Philippine entertainment industry. Productions arrive back-to-back, platforms continue to widen their reach, and audiences are rarely short on options.

New names emerge quickly, while established ones are expected to keep pace in an industry that seldom slows down. In this environment, visibility is no longer guaranteed by a single hit or standout role. Performers are often judged by what follows, not what came

before. Careers unfold under constant pressure to stay present, with little time to pause before the next project or release takes over the conversation. Still, 2025 proved that momentum can be sustained. And these celebrities proved just that.

Will Ashley builds momentum in 2025 with film roles and a strong reality TV showing

Anne Curtis returns to the small screen with ‘It’s Okay To Not Be Okay’

Anne Curtis Her return to television in 2025 came through the Philippine adaptation of It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, a project that brought conversations on mental health, trauma, and emotional healing into primetime. The series resonated with Filipino viewers for tackling subjects often left untouched in mainstream programming. Outside of television, Curtis also drew attention at Paris Fashion Week, becoming one of the few Filipinas seen alongside elite fashion houses on the global stage. For 2026, she’s set to star in BuyBust: The Undesirables, an upcoming Netflix actionthriller series, and The Loved One, a film directed by Irene Villamor that will see her back on the silver screen with Jericho Rosales.

Barbie Forteza stays visible across genres with back-to-back projects in 2025

Comedian Vice Ganda is this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival Best Actor

Vice Ganda Vice Ganda’s year unfolded on the largest stage that local cinema offers. Call Me Mother brought him back to the MMFF as a lead, and the role went on to earn him Best Actor at the festival’s Gabi ng Parangal. The film also finished with a Third Best Picture citation, keeping it among the season’s most awarded titles. At the box office, Call Me Mother emerged as the festival’s top performer, underscoring Vice’s unwavering mass appeal among Filipino audiences.

Barbie Forteza Barbie Forteza’s 2025 was defined by steady output across television and film. Beauty Empire kept her firmly in primetime, while Kontrabida Academy and the thriller P77 gave her roles far removed from what audiences usually see her do. Moving between comedy, drama, and suspense within the same year highlighted her flexibility as a performer. Her ability to flip the switch between genres is precisely why Forteza remains a soughtafter presence across different kinds of projects. In 2026, she’s set to star in Until She Remembers, a film by Cannes Best Director awardee Brillante Mendoza, which will see her acting alongside seasoned actors Charo Santos and Boots Anson-Rodrigo.

Will Ashley Will Ashley entered 2025 fresh from a Best Supporting Actor win for Balota, catching the eye of industry veterans. However, it was his second-place finish in Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition—one of the country’s most influential reality shows—that introduced him to a much wider audience. Instead of pivoting away from acting, Ashley followed that momentum with MMFF entries Love You So Bad and Bar Boys: After School, earning Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor nominations, respectively, at the 2025 festival. His work in these MMFF entries further exhibited his acting range and his potential as the industry’s next leading man.

Shuvee Etrata is booked and busy with endorsements and projects left and right On-screen partner Andres Muhlach (left) and Ashtine Olviga

‘The Alibi’ stars Kim Chiu (left) and Paulo Avelino

Kim Chiu & Paulo Avelino Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino first worked together in Linlang, which streamed in late 2023, before earning an extended television run in 2024 after their pairing connected strongly with viewers. That response carried into 2025 with My Love Will Make You Disappear, their first film together, where audience interest translated into box-office turnout. Currently, they star in The Alibi, a suspensedriven drama streaming on Amazon Prime Video that further cements their appeal as an onscreen pair.

Beyond coolness A cultural wish list for 2026

I WISH for an expansion in the meaning and function of the National Artist Award. Since its inception at the start of Martial Law, the Marcoses devised this accolade to honor the achievements of Filipino artists deemed to have had a massive impact on the nation. Over time, however, some sectors have come to regard the award less as a cultural honor and more as a boost to the valuation of collections and a matter of bragging rights. As we move deeper into the 21st century, this accolade must reexamine its criteria and significance within a cultural landscape overrun by virality and foreign domination. We must ask anew: How do we define an artist today, and what does “Filipino-ness” mean in an era of multiple identities? I wish galleries would respect the artists. For so long, the country’s art scene has been dominated by galleries that wield significant influence over clients and the market. In 2025, there has been a spate of shameless abuse against artists by specific galleries. The treatment is abhorrent, including unpaid commissions, delayed payments, and dangling promises of wealth and greatness to naïve young artists. This ugly practice, which is sadly normalized, should be called out consistently because the artists are laborers,

Ashtine Olviga & Andres Muhlach Ashtine Olviga and Andres Muhlach broke out in 2025 through the hit Wattpad adaptation Ang Mutya ng Section E, a project that quickly turned their pairing into one of the most talked-about on local streaming. The response to the series carried over to film with Minamahal: 100 Bulaklak Para Kay Luna, marking their big-screen debut and extending their rise beyond television. Individually, Olviga widened her reach with the MMFF entry Manila’s Finest, while Muhlach will be stretching his acting chops in Bagets: The Musical in 2026, stepping into the same part that launched his father, Aga Muhlach, decades earlier.

Primer

Chong Ardivilla

The National Artist Award needs to be redefined to reflect the evolving cultural landscape and the diverse identities of Filipino artists (AI-generated image)

Shuvee Etrata Shuvee Etrata emerged as one of the standouts of Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition in 2025, a run that kept her in steady conversation even after the season ended. After the show wrapped, endorsement offers came in, extending her profile beyond reality television and establishing her as a bankable star. On the acting side, she joined the dramafantasy series Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre and later appeared on Magpakailanman in an episode based on her own story. In 2026, she’ll be part of Master Cutter, a new action-drama series on GMA Prime.

not instruments for an investment portfolio, or worse, part of nefarious schemes. I wish the biennales would give others a chance, not just the usual suspects—no further comment needed. I wish for more presence and participation of marginalized groups in the art world. I wish there were more avenues for people who have been ignored, or worse, tokenized by our culture. Given the emphasis on marginalization, there should be a shift of focus and scrutiny toward alternative art techniques and materials. The Philippine art world remains small, insular, and dominated by men who mistake seriousness for depth—often clad in dark colors, stroking their chins, performing sonorousness for the camera. This culture of coolness leaves little room for those who do not already fit its image. I wish more people and a larger audience would expect artists to engage in social commentary that elicits hopes for progress. Too many people relegate the arts to fluff, leisure, decoration, and entertainment, when history shows this is not the case. Many of the rebels and upstarts have been artists who evoke intense feelings in people, which eventually lead to change. I recall one artist telling me, “I am not political. I create beauty.” I told the artist that beauty is political. After all, the power to declare what is beautiful and what is ugly is itself an act of power. If politics is, at its core, a contest over power, then art has always been political. So, more power to the arts in 2026. You may reach Chong Ardivilla at kartunistatonto@gmail. com or chonggo.bsky.social

LIFE

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025

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

By Angelica Villanueva

S THE clock ticks toward a new year, Metro Manila comes alive with vibrant celebrations. New Year’s Eve offers a mix of free outdoor gatherings, ticketed countdown parties, and star-studded musical lineups, setting the tone for welcoming 2026.

Five best places to ring

Sarah Geronimo. The event also features Matteo Guidicelli, Billy Crawford, Bamboo, Cup of Joe, Amiel Sol, Earl Agustin, Janine Teñoso, and OPM groups GAT and Raya. NYE at the 5th Bonifacio Global City’s NYE at the 5th on Fifth Avenue brings one of the metro’s most crowd-friendly street countdown parties. Performers include popular OPM and pop acts such as SB19, singer-songwriters TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan, global icon apl.de.ap of Black Eyed Peas, and OPM rock band Parokya ni Edgar. Also part of the lineup are P-pop girl group G22, DJ Mars Miranda, and Dionela featuring Jay R. Hosted by personalities Nicole Andersson and Mond Gutierrez, the BGC countdown delivers live music, interactive stages, and a festive street atmosphere that culminates in a fireworks salute as the clock strikes midnight. Whether you prefer free outdoor gatherings, city street parties, gala events, or staying inside your home, the celebration ultimately comes down to being Metro Manila welcomes 2026 with large-scale countdown present, safe, and hopeful celebrations that blend live music, fireworks, and public as another year begins. gatherings across key city venues

in the New Year in Metro Manila From seaside concerts by the bay to elegant high-rise ballrooms in the heart of the city, these five destinations offer unique ways to ring in the new year with music, fireworks, and unforgettable performances. Kapuso Countdown to 2026 One of the largest New Year’s Eve events in the metro, the annual “Kapuso Countdown” returns to the SM Mall of Asia Seaside Boulevard in Pasay City. The free event brings together a mix of television stars, P-pop, and rising performers. The lineup includes actors and hosts Kyline Alcantara, Christian Bautista, Julie Anne San Jose, and Rocco Nacino, as well as singers and performers Faith Da Silva, Angel Guardian, Emma Tiglao, Rodjun Cruz, Dasuri Choi, KITTY & KAKAI Almeda, and the P-pop group 1621, among others. The event also features special participation by Korean boy group AHOF. Gates open at 6:00 p.m., with onground shows starting at 8:30 p.m. The celebration will be broadcast

on GMA platforms, with a midnight countdown by the bay. Makati in Full Color In the heart of Makati, “Makati in Full Color” transforms Ayala Avenue into a kaleidoscope of performances and celebratory stages. Headlined by musical acts such as Ely Buendia and Morissette, the event also showcases pop and theater performers including Cup of Joe, Juan Karlos, Divine Divas, Theatre Group Asia’s A Chorus Line, Sofronio Vasquez III, and XLXGEN. Step Right Up to 2026 Okada Manila is hosting one of the most star-studded countdown parties in Entertainment City, titled “Step Right Up to 2026.” The event will feature a major concert at Cove Manila, with tickets available for purchase. The celebration will include performances by popular artists Gary Valenciano, Yeng Constantino, and Randy Santiago, who will perform a mix of pop, rock,

TODAY is New Year’s Eve. I used to list my resolutions for the new year—promises I made with the best intentions—only to quietly abandon them halfway through when life shifted, and circumstances changed. Over time, I realized that those lists often carried more pressure than purpose. They focused on who I thought I should become, rather than honoring who I was already becoming. This year, instead of measuring myself against unfinished resolutions, I’m choosing to reflect on the small wins that shaped my journey. I’m pausing to take stock not of the loud milestones, but of the quiet, steady wins that shaped my 2025. The Year of the Snake, after all, was less about grand transformations and more about steady steps forward. It was a period for introspection and strategic action, marked by growth, clarity, and adaptability. This year taught me that progress doesn’t always arrive with fireworks. Sometimes it shows up as a conversation that opens a door, a creative space that finally feels ready for your ideas, or a vote of confidence you didn’t expect but deeply needed. I’m choosing to honor those moments.

and crowd-friendly anthems throughout the night leading up to midnight. To keep the energy high, the night will also include DJ sets by DJ Pretty Dragon, DJ Tom Taus, and DJ Sofia Miguel, who will keep the party going well into the early hours of the new year. Regine Tolentino will host the event, while MC Smurff will provide entertainment. The Grand Countdown to 2026 Newport World Resorts invites guests to count down the new year at The Grand Countdown to 2026 at the Manila Marriott Grand Ballroom. The ticketed event pairs live music with formal dining and entertainment. Performers include pop and rock singers headlined by America’s Got Talent 2025 grand champion Jessica Sanchez and Pop Royalty

Celebrating the small wins that shaped 2025 Glazing Life Glaiza Lee

The author (second from right) stands with colleagues during her South Korea visit for the FACP conference

The author (center) takes her oath as an elected member of the CCP Complex Employees Organization Board

One of the highlights of my year was participating in the 2025 Federation of Asian Cultural Promotion Conference in Bucheon, South Korea, with Lino Matalang Jr. and Ian Darwin Wong. Being part of that space, where culture, creativity, and collaboration intersect, reminded me why I started doing this work in the first place. It was more than a trip or a presentation; it reminded me that my voice and perspective have a place in conversations that reach beyond borders. That feeling was strengthened when my project proposal won second prize in the FACP’s Pitch for New Aspects – Clare C. & Friends Fellowship. Standing there, hearing my work recognized, felt like a small but meaningful validation of the risks I’ve taken and the long hours spent refining ideas that once lived only in my notebook. Getting to FACP wasn’t easy. It came with its share of heartbreak and setbacks, but I kept going because seeing my proposal presented on that stage mattered to me. I believed deeply in my proposal, shaped through countless brainstorming sessions and collaborations with people who share the same passion for promoting Philippine culture. For someone who struggles with impostor syndrome, this moment became a quiet validation that I am capable of doing more with the skills I have. It made one thing clear: I can do more. With the right guidance and support, my writing can take me further than I ever thought possible and can open doors of possibilities.

Another quiet triumph came closer to home—being elected to the CCP CEO (CCP Complex Employees Organization) Board, earning 110 votes out of 167. I won’t lie—it’s scary, yet it’s also an incredible honor. On paper, they’re just numbers, but each vote carried trust. And that trust is humbling and empowering at the same time. It reminds me that growth isn’t just personal; it’s about being part of something bigger, shaping a community, and stepping into responsibilities that push me to do more than I ever imagined. Beyond the bigger milestones, there were countless small wins that quietly shaped my year, such as pushing through fear and self-doubt to achieve something meaningful, strengthening friendships and professional connections, and learning new skills that made me more confident in what I do. One of my biggest small wins this year has been having a team I can truly trust to get the job done. Shout out to my team Sophia Eugenio, Floe Atabay, and Gel Bobiles, Kiko Cabuena, Orly Daquipil, and Raul Asis, as well as our OIC Paulo Perez with his not-so-little band of socmed warriors Jude Laporga, Terrence Santiago, Patrick Alipinin, and Mar Pineda III. I honestly don’t know where I would be without them. Their hard work, support, and even their little everyday gestures kept me going, and I can never thank them enough. Working with colleagues who keep me grounded with their support and light-hearted antics; friends who

listen and stand up for me when injustice strikes; and strangers who, over time, have become confidantes. As the year closes, I realize these wins share a common thread: they weren’t about arrival, but about alignment. They tell me I’m moving in the right direction, even if the path is still unfolding. So tonight, as one year hands the baton to the next, I’m not chasing resolutions. I’m carrying gratitude for the rooms I entered, the ideas that landed, and the people who believed in me. If 2025 was about small wins, then I’m ready to let 2026 build on them—steadily, intentionally, and with gratitude. *** AS THE New Year approaches, I always look forward to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts calendar, thoughtfully conceptualized by my good friend Roel Hoang Manipon. The 2026 edition, titled A Century of Art Deco in the Philippines, commemorates 100 years of Art Deco in the country, coinciding with the global celebration of the style. It highlights 12 notable structures—one for each month—showing how Art Deco influenced civic buildings, educational institutions, residences, and cultural landmarks across the archipelago during the 20th century. Roel notes, “As it marks its hundredth year, Art Deco in the Philippines deserves recognition not only for its beauty but also for its role in shaping the country’s vision of modernity.” The calendar opens with the Generoso M. Villanueva House, or Daku Balay, in Bacolod City, followed by the First United Building in Binondo, Manila. Other featured landmarks include the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Malate, Manila; the University of Santo Tomas Central Seminary Building in Sampaloc, Manila; the Bulacan Provincial Capitol

The author receives second prize at the Pitch for New Aspects Awards during the FACP conference

in Malolos; the Far Eastern University buildings in Sampaloc; Molo Mansion in Iloilo City; the Quezon Provincial Capitol in Lucena; the Old Municipal Hall of Jaro in Iloilo City; the Old Tanauan Municipal Hall, now Museo ng Tanauan; and the Gala-Rodriguez House in Sariaya, Quezon. The calendar concludes with the Metropolitan Theater in Ermita, Manila, celebrating its 95th anniversary in 2026. Roel provided most of the photographs, with additional images contributed by Mervin Concepcion Vergara, Arch. Gerard Rey Lico, Ben Scharlin, Bien Alvarez, Lorraine Sy-Lianteng, Iya Cabrera, and Roezielle Joy Iglesia. Beyond being a timekeeping tool, the calendar serves as an accessible cultural reference, inviting Filipinos to rediscover how Art Deco helped shape the Philippine built environment and its aspirations for modernity. Happy New Year! Wishing you health, happiness, and prosperity in 2026. Keep enjoying Manila Standard and Glazing Life throughout the year.

The author joins delegates at the 41st Federation of Asian Cultural Promotion Conference in Bucheon, South Korea, a gathering focused on cultural exchange and collaboration