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Happy New Year to all!
LIGHTS ON. The "family fireworks" light up the Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge three hours ahead of the main show at midnight in Sydney, Australia on New Year's Eve on December 31, 2025. AFP
A timeline of major stories in year 2025 TIMELINE of major stories of 2025. • January 13, 2025. Over 1.5 million members of the Iglesia ni Cristo gathered at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila’s Rizal Park to support President Ferdinand R. Marcos’ stance Next page
Messages to ring in the New Year PBBM: A moment for reflection, renewal VOL. XXXIX • NO. 320 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 • THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026 •
SWS: More Pinoys expect better life quality in 2026
Almost 9 in 10 adults hopeful in entering new year
By Katrina Manubay
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EARLY half (44 percent) of Filipino adults expect their quality of life to improve over the next 12 months, a November survey by the Social Weather Stations showed. At least 89 percent of adult Filipinos are also entering the New Year with hope rather than fear, SWS said. While nearly half of the survey re-
spondents expressed optimism, 38 percent said they believe their lot in life will remain the same (“No Change”), while only eight percent said they
think it will worsen (“Pessimists”). Personal optimism remained notably high across major regions, SWS said. In Mindanao, it increased by 4 points, rising from +31 in September to +35 last month. In Balance Luzon, optimism improved from very high to excellent, gaining 2 points from +38 to +40. Meanwhile, in Metro Manila, optimism declined slightly, down by 3 points from +39 to +36. In the Vi-
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Trump tariffs, Gaza truce, Ukraine war top the year just past
LEVISTE CLAIMS OMB SORRY, CLAVANO WON’TENGAGE HIM
US ENVOY CARLSON ENDS PH STINT
sayas, it remained very high but fell by 4 points, dropping from +33 to +29. The survey also revealed that Net Personal Optimism remained very high in rural areas, increasing by 2 points from +34 to +36, while it moved from +36 to +37 in urban areas. Additionally, the data showed that Net Optimism tends to decline with age.
WELCOMING 2026. Well-wishers gather at the stage set up for the New Year’s countdown at the Bonifacion Global City (BGC) in Taguig City, Metro Manila. Manny Palmero
NEW Year's Eve revellers toasted the end of 2025 on Wednesday, waving goodbye to 12 months packed with Trump tariffs, a Gaza truce and vain hopes for peace in Ukraine. It was one of the warmest years on record, the stifling heat stoking wildfires in Europe, droughts in Africa and deadly rains across Southeast Asia. There was a somber tinge to party preparations in Australia's harbor city Sydney, the self-proclaimed "New Year's capital of the world." Barely two weeks have passed since a father and son allegedly opened fire on a Jewish festival at Bondi Beach, killing 15 people in the nation's deadliest mass shooting for almost 30 years. Next page
Slight rise in heart, asthma cases—DOH By Ram Superable THE Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday reported a rise in cases of stroke, heart attack, and asthma before the end of 2025, with five deaths recorded, consisting of three from stroke and two due to acute coronary syndrome. This developed at the number of fireworks-related injuries rose to 140 as of Dec. 30, according to the DOH. The agency said it logged a total of 288 cases of acute stroke, acute coronary syndrome, and bronchial asthma from Dec. 21 to 31, 2025. The figure reflects a five-percent increase compared to the 274
cases recorded during the same period last year, according to the DOH. Acute stroke, also referred to as brain attack, was identified as the leading cause of death among the reported cases. Among acute coronary syndrome cases, the highest number was recorded in the 60 to 69 age group, accounting for 28 of the 77 reported cases. Acute stroke cases were also most prevalent among patients aged 60 to 69, with 53 of the 180 cases falling under this age group. For bronchial asthma, the highest number of cases was recorded Next page
I JOIN Filipinos all over the world as we welcome the New Year 2026. The coming of another year is always a moment for reflection and renewal. It gives us the opportunity to look back on the year that has passed—its lessons, challenges, and achievements—and to look ahead with hope and purpose to the possibilities that await us. Next page
VP Sara: Time to end doubts, fears ISANG masigla at mainit na pagbati ng Bagong Taon ang ipinapaabot ko sa bawat Pilipino sa buong mundo! Sa pagsalubong natin sa 2026, iwaksi na natin ang anumang pag-aalinlangan at takot. Ngayon ang simula ng isang panibagong kabanata, isang malinis na pahina na punung-puno ng pag-asa. Next page
SP Sotto: Continue serving the public 2025 was a comeback year for me in public service after three years of life as a private citizen. It was a humbling experience coming from the minority to being elected as the Senate President in the middle of one of the largest controversies that challenged the Next page institution.
Speaker Dy: Be sources of unity, not division SA ATING mga mahal na kababayan, batid ko pong patuloy tayong naghahanap ng pananagutan. Nasa gitna tayo ng yugto ng ating kasaysayan kung kailan matindi ang pagkadismaya. Salamat po sa inyong patuloy na pasensya at pagbibigay ng pagkakataong makuha muli ang inyong tiwala. Gagawin namin po ang lahat para hindi po kayo biguin. Next page
Rep. Romualdez: A brighter future for all Filipino families
ALL READY. Volunteers of the Baseco Fire And Rescue Volunteer
Association Inc. set up a First Aid Station in Baseco, Tondo in Manila in preparation for the expected rush of firecracker injuries during the New Year festivities. Baseco Fire And Rescue Volunteer Association Inc.
Nawa'y maging taon ng pagasa, pagkakaisa, at mas maayos na kinabukasan para sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino. Sama-sama nating harapin ang bagong taon nang may malasakit, sipag, at pananampalataya sa mas magandang bukas.
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BLANKET OF FOG. A dense blanket of fog envelops the eastern edge of Metro Manila on Wednesday morning, shrouding communities along the Marikina River basin and nearby highlands as residents wake to reduced visibility and a dramatically altered landscape. Edd Castro Around 29 percent of the respondents said they were thankful for the family, while another 28 percent were grateful just to be alive. Meanwhile, 10 percent said they were thankful to God. Additional responses include being thankful for having food to eat (six percent), being able to cope with daily hardships (five percent), job or career (four percent), happy life (three percent), prosperity two percent), education (two percent), as well as peace and safety (two percent). Finally, about one percent or fewer
said they were thankful for having no worries or problems, a house, good friends, a love life or spouse, and surviving an illness or tragedy. The Fourth Quarter SWS was conducted from November 24 to 30, 2025, using face-to-face interviews of 1,200 adults nationwide: 300 each in Metro Manila, Balance Luzon (or Luzon outside Metro Manila), the Visayas, and Mindanao. The sampling error margins are ±3% for national percentages and ±6% each for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao.
Trump...
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Parties will pause for a minute of silence at 11 p.m. (8:00 p.m. Manila time) as the famed Sydney Harbor Bridge is bathed in white light to symbolise peace. "It has been a difficult year for so many people," said Steph Grant, a 32-year-old Sydney resident. "Here's hoping the world looks like a brighter place in 2026," said Grant, who works in advertising. Hundreds of thousands of spectators are expected to line Sydney's foreshore as nine tons of fireworks explode on the stroke of midnight. Security will be tighter than usual, with squads of heavily armed police patrolling the crowds. Sydney kicks off a chain of celebrations stretching from glitzy New York to the Hogmanay festival on the chilly streets of Scotland. More than two million people are expected to pack Brazil's lively Copacabana Beach for what authorities have billed as the world's biggest New Year's Eve party. Truce and tariffs Labubu dolls became a worldwide craze in 2025, thieves plundered the Louvre in a daring heist, and K-pop heartthrobs BTS made their longawaited return. The world lost pioneering zoologist Jane Goodall, the Vatican chose a new pope, and the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk laid bare America's deep political divisions. US President Donald Trump returned to the White House in January, launching a tariff blitz that sent global markets into meltdown. From palm-fringed islands in the South Pacific to the sprawling factories of Shanghai, few escaped the trade assault unscathed. Many expect the tough times to continue in 2026. "The economic situation is also very dire, and I'm afraid I'll be left without income," said Ines Rodriguez, 50, a merchant in Mexico City. "All our colleagues are in the same situation: very little work and not very profitable," said Buenos Aires business owner Fernando Selvaggi, 61. After two years of war that left much of the Gaza Strip in ruins, US pressure helped land a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in October. But with each side already accusing the other of flagrant violations, no one is sure how long the break in hostilities will hold. Hamas militants stormed into southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of more than 1,200 people, most of them civilians. Israel's retaliatory assault on Gaza has killed more than 70,000, also mostly civilians, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory, a figure the UN deems credible. The war in Ukraine—sparked by Russia's invasion in 2022—meanwhile grinds towards its four-year anniversary in February. There were hopes a renewed burst of diplomacy might produce a breakthrough this year. But Russia shot down any notion of a temporary ceasefire in the final days of 2025. As envoys shuttle between Moscow, Washington and Kyiv, one major obstacle remains: Ukraine is reluctant to give up land, and Russia is unwilling to give it back. Sports, space and AI The coming 12 months promise to be full of sports, space travel and serious questions over artificial intelligence. More than 50 years since the last Apollo lunar mission, 2026 looks to be the year that mankind once again sets its sights towards the moon. NASA's Artemis II mission, backed by Elon Musk, plans to launch a crewed spacecraft that will circle that moon during a 10day test flight. After years of unbridled enthusiasm, artificial intelligence is starting to face mounting scrutiny. Nervous investors are already questioning whether the years-long AI boom might be starting to resemble something more like a market bubble. Athletes will gather on Italy's famed Dolomites to hit the slopes for the Winter Olympics. And for a brief few weeks between June and July, nations will come together for the biggest football World Cup in history. For the first time, 48 teams will compete in the world's most-watched sports event, playing in venues across the United States, Mexico and Canada. From the beaches of Brazil to the far-flung reaches of New Zealand, the tournament is expected to draw millions of fans. AFP
against the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. • February 5, 2025. The House of Representatives voted to impeach the Vice President on charges of culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, graft of corruption, and other high crimes. • March 11, 2025. Former President Rodrigo Duterte is arrested upon arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport from Hong Kong on the basis of a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court for alleged crimes against humanity. He is then transported to The Hague in the Netherlands. • May 12, 2025. The ruling alliance won five of the 12 seats at stake, while the Duterte backed slate won 5 seats including the pole position while two former senators who ran as independent bets took the remaining Senate spots. • June 10, 2025. The Senate, voting 18-5, returns the impeachment complaint against the Vice President to the House of Representatives. • July 25, 2025, the Supreme Court ruled that the impeachment complaint against the vice president was unconstitutional, thus barring any attempt to file a case against Duterte until February 6, 2026. • July 28, 2025. President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. orders an investigation into alleged corruption in flood control projects during his 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA). • Aug. 11 2025. President Marcos, Jr. discloses the names of 15 contractors who bagged P100 billion worth of flood control projects since 2022. Among them were companies that purportedly had links to Ako Bicol partylist Rep. Zaldy Co. • Sept. 1, 2025. Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan resigns as DPWH Secretary. Newly-appointed Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon ordered the courtesy resignations of officials in his agency, which included undersecretaries, assistant secretaries, division heads, and district engineers nationwide. • Sept. 8, 2025. Senate President Chiz Escudero is ousted and replaced by Sen. Tito Sotto. • Sept. 11, 2025. President Marcos, Jr. creates the Independent Commission for Infrastructure.
• Sept. 17, 2025. House Speaker Martin Romualdez resigns his post. • Sept. 21, 2025. Over a million protesters join anti-corruption rallies in Metro Manila. • Sept. 30 2025. A magnitude 6.9 earthquake rocked Bogo City, in the island of Cebu, killing at least 79 people, injuring over a 1,000 others and damaging millions of pesos in public and private properties. • October 10, 2025. A doublet earthquake measuring 7.4 and 6.7-6.8 struck Davao Oriental, killing at least 10 people, and injuring over a thousand others. • Nov. 5, 2025. Typhoon Tino swept through central Philippines, killing at least 85 people and damaging millions in infrastructure and agriculture. • Nov. 14, 2025. Former DPWH Usec. Romeo Bernardo tags former Senators Bong Revilla and Nancy Binay, Senators Chiz Escudero and Jinggoy Estrada, Rep. Zaldy Co, former Rep. Mitch Cajayon Uy, and former DPWH Sec. Manuel Bonoan, and Ex-Usec. Cathy Cabral as involved in the flood control anomalies. Former Rep. Co releases a fiveminute video statement admitting he facilitated budget insertions and accused the President and former House Speaker of receiving kickbacks. • Nov. 17, 2025. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman resign. • Nov. 18, 2025. The Office of the Ombudsman filed the first batch of cases against former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co and several former officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) over alleged anomalous flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro before the Sandiganbayan. • Dec. 18, 2025. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested controversial contractor Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya on graft and malversation charges filed against her and nine others by the Office of the Ombudsman for an alleged ghost P96.5million flood control project in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental, • Dec. 19, 2025. Former DPWH Usec. Catalina Cabral is found dead after an alleged fall from Kennon Road, in Tuba, Benguet. • Dec. 29, 2025. The Senate and the House ratify the P6.793-trillion national budget—the largest ever in the country's history.
SWS:... From A1
As of November 2025, optimism was highest among 18- to 24-yearolds at an excellent +54, followed by 25- to 34-year-olds at +41 (excellent), 35- to 44-year-olds at +39 (very high), 45- to 54-year-olds at +34 (very high), and those 55 years and older at +28 (high). The November 2025 survey also found that 29 percent of Filipino adults feel their quality of life is better than it was twelve months ago (referred to by SWS
as “Gainers”), 36 percent believe it has worsened (“Losers”), and 34 percent say it is the same (“Unchanged”). The SWS survey likewise showed most Filipinos are thankful for good health this holiday season as in previous years. At least 45 percent of respondents said they were thankful for good health during this Christmas and New Year. The research included an openended question where respondents could provide up to two answers regarding what they were thankful for.
Slight... From A1
among children aged 0 to 9, with eight of the 31 reported cases. The data is collected from 10 pilot sites monitored by the DOH for acute complications related to noncommunicable diseases. In the firecrackers department, the data, recorded Dec. 21 to Dec. 30, was 23 percent lower than last year’s 182 cases in the same time period. The primary causes of injuries in the countdown to the New Year celebrations included Five Star, Boga, Pla-Pla, and Whistle Bomb. Boys aged five to 19 comprised the majority of the casualties. The agency said it will continue to monitor until Jan. 5, anticipating the largest number of cases this evening and tomorrow morning covering the transition to the New Year.
As we step into 2026, I therefore call on every Filipino to embrace the year with discipline, confidence, and a shared commitment to our nation’s progress. For beyond personal resolutions, the new year calls on us to examine how we live with one another, how we lift one another, and how our choices shape our nation. A society thrives when its people choose empathy over indifference, service over self-interest, and hope over despair. It is thus our commitment in the government to be relentless in pursuing a Bagong Pilipinas that nurtures unity, fosters compassion, and showcases the greatness of our kababayan. As we step into the unfolding days ahead, may we move forward with a clearer understanding of our role in each other’s lives and a renewed commitment to building a future shaped not by circumstance alone, but by the strength of our will and the clarity of our collective purpose. Manigong Bagong Taon sa ating lahat! Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas!
VP... From A1
Hayaan nating mag-alab muli ang ating tapang at determinasyon. Anuman ang hamon na ating haharapin, taglay natin ang pambihirang lakas upang malampasan ang lahat ng balakid. Sa bawat pagsubok, lalabas tayong mas matatag. Itinuring natin ang bagong taon na paanyaya upang magkaisa at magsimula nang may panibagong pananaw. Ang ating pinagsamang lakas at pananampalataya ang susi ng tunay na pagbabago. Sama-sama tayong magsikap at magdasal na ang 2026 ay maging taon ng pag-asa at pagpapala. Maligayang Bagong Taon sa inyong lahat! Nawa’y maging mas maliwanag at maunlad ang ating panibagong simula. Mahalin natin ang Pilipinas— para sa Diyos, sa Bayan, at sa bawat Pamilyang Pilipino.
SP... From A1
The last six months comprises of whirlwind national issues both in the Senate and the country as a whole—from the impeachment to the flood control issues. But most importantly, it is a year of opportunity to correct the wrongs and establish a new standard of transparency that our countrymen deserves. I made sure that for the first time, the whole budget process was opened to the public for scrutiny and participation. With the guidance of The Lord our God, may we be able to continue to serve the public with utmost sincerity and honesty in 2026!
Speaker... From A1
As your Speaker, I always said that the trust in govern is built not by words alone but by actions. Kaya't nais ko rin pong ibahagi ang isang mahalagang hakbang na ating tatalakayin para sa reforms at modernization ng kongreso. Bilang bahagi ng ating pangako at bukas na makabagong pamamahala, sisimulan ng Kamara ngayong 2026, sa tulong po ng Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), ang mga hakbang tungo sa isang paperless Congress at ang paggamit ng blockchain technology upang matiyak ang integridad, seguridad at transparency ng ating proseso—at kasama dito ang pagbuo ng susunod na national budget. Once this transition is completed, we will be the first legislative body in Asia to adopt this technology. Ginagawa natin ito dahil naniniwala tayo na ang transparency ay hindi lamang isang adhikain o slogan; dapat po ito ay isinasagawa at isinasabuhay. Gaya ng aking sinabi noon, ako'y inyong pagkatiwalaan bilang Speaker; patuloy nating gagawin ang lahat ng makakaya upang gawin na mas bukas, mas malinaw at mas mapagkakatiwalaan ang Kongreso. As we enter a new year, may this be our shared commitment: Let us be the sources of unity, not division. Let us speak with clarity, not confusion. Let us choose to heal, not to wound. Hindi man tayo laging magkakasundo, nawa’y mananatili tayong magalang, makatao at may malasakit. Ang pagkakaiba ng pananaw ay hindi dapat maging dahilan ng pagkakahati-hati kundi pagkakataon upang makinig at umunawa.
NEWS US ambassador to conclude PH tenure in January
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Solon: Ombudsman apologized over ‘inaccurate’ Cabral files By Pot Chavez ‘ANDAP.’
Frost, locally known as andap, blankets a large area of Englandad, Paoay, Atok, Benguet on Dec. 31, as single-digit temperatures cover vegetable plantations, grasslands and flowering plants. Mt. Olis Viewpoint.
By Katrina Manubay UNITED States Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson is set to conclude her tenure in January, the U.S. Embassy in Manila confirmed. In a message to reporters on December 29, U.S. Embassy spokesperson Jameson DeBose said the seasoned diplomat would complete her service next month. “I have enjoyed a rewarding career as a State Department diplomat for more than 40 years, the highlight of which has been serving as ambassador to the Philippines since July 2022,” Carlson said. The Trump administration recalled about 30 ambassadors and other senior career diplomats last week. DeBose did not address the issue directly and reiterated that Carlson would leave after nearly three years of service. In October, President Donald Trump appointed former businessman Lee Lipton as the new U.S. ambassador to the Philippines, succeeding Carlson. The U.S. State Department said Lipton’s nomination has been sent to the U.S. Senate for confirmation. If confirmed, Lipton will take over from Carlson.
Thousands of devotees of Jesus Nazareno join the Walk of Thanksgiving in Quiapo, Manila, days before the 2026 feast, as the revered image is brought out of Quiapo Church in a yellow carroza after a midnight mass. Norman Cruz
‘Justice for minor killed by firecracker’ NATIONAL Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin on Wednesday vowed to bring justice to the 12-year-old boy killed by a suspected “Good-bye Philippines” firecracker in Manila. Aberin said he ordered a full investigation and confirmed that authorities have identified two persons of interest in the case. He said those who lit and left the firecracker could face a murder charge, depending on the outcome of the investigation and the established timeline of events. Aberin added that Metro Manila has recorded one death and 27 injuries linked to firecrackers since the start of the holiday season. He said the Manila Police District is backtracking CCTV footage and looking into the possible involvement of a barangay official to identify those responsible. Vince Lopez
Makati City enforces firecracker ban THE Makati City government reminded residents of Barangays Bangkal, Pio del Pilar and Magallanes that a total ban on firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices remains in force. Under Ordinance No. 2010-A-020, the production, sale, storage, posses-
“They apologized for being inaccurate with what Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano had posted because the video, I think, was perhaps a sudden decision for them to post,” Leviste told ANC’s Headstart. In a statement issued after Leviste’s interview, Clavano said he does not want to “engage” with the lawmaker’s claim that someone from the Office of the Ombudsman apologized over an “inaccurate” video statement. “It’s a black hole. I want to stay focused. Besides, it’s not about us,” he said. Clavano on Dec. 29 posted a video saying Leviste was not the only person who approached the Ombudsman claiming to possess copies of the Cabral files. The assistant ombudsman added that soft copies of documents held by third parties inherently lose evidentiary credibility, as they are susceptible to alteration, incomplete context, or manipulation. The Batangas lawmaker, however, said Clavano was not included in his meeting with the Office of the Ombudsman, where he supposedly provided the documents. “There are ombudsman staff who were in the meeting, and they can explain themselves on what the meeting was about,” he said.
PCG challenges Chinese research vessel near Cagayan
NAZARENO DEVOTEES.
IN BRIEF
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IRST District Rep. Leandro Leviste on Wednesday said the Office of the Ombudsman reached out to apologize to him over its “inaccurate” video statement claiming he had provided only a limited copy of the so-called Cabral files.
By Rex Espiritu THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Tuesday challenged the presence of a Chinese research vessel detected operating near waters off Cagayan province, reaffirming the country’s assertion of its sovereign rights within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Commodore Jay Tarriela, said the Chinese research vessel Tan Suo Er Hao was detected using Canada’s Dark Vessel Detection program as it approached within approximately 19 nautical miles off the coast of Cagayan. In response, PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan immediately ordered the deployment of a PCG Islander aircraft to conduct a maritime domain awareness sion and use of firecrackers are prohibited in the three villages, particularly during the holiday season. Violators face a P5,000 fine or up to six months in jail, with business owners or managers held liable for violations by establishments. City officials said the ban is due to the villages’ proximity to the former petroleum pipeline leak site, where ignition could endanger lives and property. Police also conducted inspections ahead of the New Year’s Countdown 2026 to ensure security, crowd control and emergency preparedness. Joel E. Zurbano
NCRPO disposes illegal firecrackers THE National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Wednesday destroyed and disposed of seized illegal firecrackers and improvised cannons ahead of New Year celebrations. The disposal was carried out by the Explosives and Ordnance Disposal unit at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City. NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin said the activity underscored the police force’s commitment to public safety and its campaign against illegal pyrotechnics. He said some of the destroyed items included “Good-bye Philippines” firecrackers, similar to those linked to the death of a 12-year-old boy in Manila. Authorities said the confiscated firecrackers, worth more than ₱1.4 million, would be safely destroyed in a secured area, noting that burning is safer than dumping them in water. Vince Lopez
(MDA) flight, according to Tarriela. The operation aimed to challenge the vessel’s presence, determine whether it was conducting marine scientific research without prior authorization from the Philippine government, and assert the country’s sovereign rights within its EEZ. The PCG said any unauthorized marine scientific research could constitute a violation of the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The Tan Suo Er Hao is an 87.25-meter advanced deep-sea scientific research vessel operated by the Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering under the Chinese Academy of Sciences. It serves as a mothership for both manned and unmanned deepsea submersibles and is capable of supporting comprehensive deep-sea operations.
Wage hike approved for Northern Mindanao workers By Vito Barcelo THE National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) has approved a new wage increase for private sector workers in Northern Mindanao, capping off 2025 with higher pay for thousands of minimum wage earners in the region. The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board in Northern Mindanao (RTWPB-X) granted a P39 increase in daily minimum wages for both nonagriculture and agriculture workers under Wage Categories I and II, to be imple-
mented in two tranches. Wage Category I covers major urban centers and growth areas, including the cities of Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Malaybalay, Valencia, Gingoog, El Salvador and Ozamiz, as well as the municipalities of Tagoloan, Villanueva, Jasaan, Opol, Maramag, Quezon, Manolo Fortich and Lugait. Wage Category II applies to all other areas in Northern Mindanao not included under Category I and to retail and service establishments employing not more than 10 workers, ensuring broader coverage for small enterprises and rural communities.
Upon full implementation of the wage order, daily minimum wages in the region will range from P485 for Wage Category II to P500 for Wage Category I, providing additional income support to workers amid rising living costs. The NWPC also affirmed Wage Order RBX-DW-06, which grants a P500 monthly increase for domestic workers across Northern Mindanao, raising their minimum monthly wage to P6,500. Both wage orders will take effect on January 16, 2026, allowing employers time to prepare for compliance.
LAST-MINUTE RUSH. Shoppers
flock to Blumentritt Market on Wednesday, hours before New Year’s Eve, to buy food and other items for the celebrations. Norman Cruz
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mst.daydesk@gmail.com
Bill aims to set up ‘Walang Gutom’as flagship program By Maricel V. Cruz THE House of Representatives is poised to pass a measure institutionalizing the Walang Gutom Program as the government’s flagship food security initiative. The bill’s author, Albay Third District Rep. Raymond Adrian said he is optimistic that his colleagues will support House Bill 4039, or the proposed “Walang Gutom Act” he crafted. HB 4039 creates a permanent, nationwide platform for delivering food assistance and ensuring that hunger prevention becomes an integral part of the country’s social protection systems. The House Committee on Social Services earlier adopted Salceda’s bill. Salceda, chair of the House Special Committee on Food Security, emphasized that the program must be institutionalize to protect it from political disputes, adding that this ensures it will not be affected by political conflicts. In his sponsorship remarks prior to the panel’s adoption of the bill, Salceda pointed out that “the Constitution guarantees every Filipino the right to adequate food. He explained that hunger is not merely an economic problem but also a governance, moral, and constitutional issue.”
BLOW YOUR HORNS. Members of the Kapatirang Siklistang Pilipino says blowing your own horn to meet the New Year is definitely a better option than the raucous, costly, and unsafe traditional way of exploding firecrackers. Teddy Brul
DOLE resolves nearly all labor disputes By Vito Barcelo
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IN BRIEF
HE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has facilitated more than P6.62 billion in monetary benefits for workers as it intensified conciliation, mediation, and voluntary arbitration efforts through the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB).
SPD steps up anti-crime drive, nabs 20 fugitives THE Southern Police District (SPD) chalked up significant gains in crime prevention with the arrest of at least 20 fugitives during heightened police operations carried out last Dec.22-28. The operations, carried out across the SPD’s area of responsibility, signified a proactive approach to strengthening public safety and maintaining order in the district. The high-profile wanted individuals include one alias “Roderick,” tagged as the Top 2 Most Wanted Person in Makati City. He faces two counts of qualified rape of a minor, with the Family Court of Taguig City recommending no bail. Also arrested were “Carlo” and “Wolfrando,” listed as No. 10 and 9, respectively, in the list of most wanted persons in Taguig City, and the alias “George” of Pasay City, classified as No. 2. Joel E. Zurbano
100 cyclists promote safe New Year revelry SOME 100 cyclists marked the 4th year of their anti-fireworks advocacy by staging a community outreach project dubbed “Bisikleta ni Pepe “ to promote safer, healthier, and environmentally friendly ways of celebrating the New Year. The advocates, members of the Kapatiran ng Siklistang Pilipino (KSP), said their “Iwas Paputok” campaign, gathered together cyclists from various KSP chapters in Metro Manila and Rizal province. Instead of indulging in the traditional firecracker revelry, KSP members distributed food, chocolates, toys, and mini trumpets to children from marginalized communities in Cavite—encouraging the use of alternative no-smoke, no-injury, and zero-waste noise-makers. Before dawn, participating cyclists convened at St. Dominic Medical Center along Bacoor Blvd. and proceeded to several communities, where they handed out nearly 500 toys and festive mini trumpets made possible through the support of donors and partner advocates. Teddy Brul
Santa Rosa City pays homage to Dr. Rizal SANTA Rosa City in Laguna commemorated the 129th anniversary of the national hero Dr. Jose Rizal’s martyrdom on Dec. 30, through a meaningful and historic ceremony attended by various sectors of the community. Mayor Arlene Arcillas led the event, joined residents and local officials in honoring Dr. Rizal. The ceremony had theme “Rizal: In the Rise of the People, Your Teachings and Spirit Are Our True Guide,” highlighting the enduring relevance of Rizal’s ideals to the Filipino people. In her message, Mayor Arcillas emphasized the importance of unity, education, and love of country as foundations for national progress. She noted that the spirit of Jose Rizal remains alive in every Filipino willing to make sacrifices for the welfare of the nation and fellow citizens. Roy Tomandao
I LIKE THAT…NO, I THINK THIS ONE IS BETTER. Customers can’t help but be picky when buying lechon in La Loma, Quezon City which has gained the time-honored distinction of being the lechon capital of the country. Manny Palmero
Bill seeks to rewrite tertiary education law HOUSE Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal (ML) partylist Rep. Leila de Lima on Wednesday pushed for the passage of a bill seeking to amend Republic Act (RA) 10931 or the “Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Law” to address gaps and ensure that the most impoverished students are prioritized in the implementation of the statute. De Lima cited the need for Congress to enact the measure, saying “the enactment of RA 10931 is a bold and positive step toward ensuring that quality higher education is inclusive and made accessible to all Filipinos.” “However, eight years after the
law’s enactment, several issues in the law’s implementation have emerged, thus necessitating the amendments proposed by this bill,” De Lima explained said. Under RA 10931, the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) and the Student Loan Program for Tertiary Education were established for Filipino students in all state universities and colleges (SUCs), local universities and colleges (LUCs), private higher education institutions (HEIs), and all technicalvocational institutions (TVIs). Among the issues that emerged is that while the TES was established to assist underprivileged students with education-related expenses, not
all TES beneficiaries actually come from poor households. According to the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), there was a sharp decline in TES grants for the poorest households, dropping from 74.24 percent in academic year 2018-2019 to 30.74 percent in 2022-2023. De Lima also cited that TES has also become increasingly inaccessible to the youth under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), with the intake of new 4Ps TES grantees dropping to 23 new grantees in AY 2019-2020 from forming a significant bulk of the intake at 7,433 new grantees in AY 2018-2019. Maricel V. Cruz
The DOLE reported high settlement and disposition rates in labor dispute resolution, thereby averting work stoppages and minimize disruptions. As of Nov. 30, 2025, the NCMB handled 361 preventive mediation cases involving nearly 76,000 workers, posting a 94-percent disposition rate and a 91 percent settlement rate. During the same period, 129 notices of strike or lockout involving 31,451 workers were recorded, with a 90-percent disposition rate and a 74-percent settlement rate. Actual strikes and lockouts were limited to 11 work stoppages, with only one case pending at period-end. Despite these incidents, total work disruption was contained to 53,493 person-days lost, DOLE disclosed. Under the Single-Entry Approach program, the NCMB processed 5,448 requests for assistance, achieving a 99-percent disposition rate and a 77-percent settlement rate. Disputes were resolved in an average of 10 days. The board also handled 2,011 voluntary arbitration cases, posting an overall disposition rate of 76%, with higher resolution rates in maritime disputes (77 percent) than landbased cases (59 percent). Preventive mechanisms were likewise expanded in 2025. The NCMB established 516 new LaborManagement Cooperation (LMC) mechanisms and enhanced 2,670 existing ones, covering 4,810 companies nationwide. Grievance machinery was strengthened through 517 newly operationalized systems and 2,715 enhancements, resulting in 97% of companies with grievance mechanisms avoiding disputes. Convergence programs further bolstered workplace relations, with 754 LMCs enhanced under productivity initiatives, 577 under occupational safety and health programs, and 466 under family welfare initiatives.
P840-k dried marijuana seized from courier service in GenSan By Vince Lopez POLICE Region 12 director Brig. Gen. Arnold Ardiente on Wednesday, Dec. 31, reported their successful operation following the interception of seven kilograms of dried marijuana leave coursed through a courier service. The operation stemmed from the arrest of a suspect identified as Romnick in Barangay Lagao, General Santos City for alleged violation of the Dangerous Drugs Act. Investigation revealed that the suspect tipped off the police about an incoming parcel containing marijuana through a courier service. Police operatives coordinated with courier leading to the recovery of the parcel at a courier warehouse in Baran-
gay Calumpang, General Santos City. The recovered parcel contained approximately two kilograms of suspected dried marijuana leaves. Further verification with the courier disclosed another parcel from the same shipper. The second parcel was also found to contain about five kilos of suspected marijuana, bringing the total seizure to seven kilograms estimated at P840,000. The contraband was documented, marked, and secured for evidentiary purposes in accordance with existing laws and procedures. “This case shows that effective law enforcement is not only about arrests, but also about building cooperation, acting on verified information, and preventing the distribution of illegal drugs before they reach our communities,” Ardiente said.
ON RIZAL DAY. Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene Arcillas and Vice Mayor Arnold Arcillas lead the wreath-laying ceremony at the Dr. Jose Rizal Shrine to commemorate the national hero’s 129th year of martyrdom. Roy Tomandao
OPINION
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026
mst.daydesk@gmail.com
Si Edi at si Pati
I FIRST learned about two creatures named Edi and Pati from former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza, for whom I was a consultant. Sitting beside him in the weekly department heads meeting after the Monday flag ceremony at City Hall, he would warn city officials about the corrupt practices of asking for a share of the loot. “Paano si Edi (short for Eddie)?” “E di si boss (the department head or some such official)” when asking for “lagay.” “At Pati (short for Patty) rin ako.” “Tigilan niyo ‘yang Edi at Pati,” Mayor “tokayo” would admonish the department heads. Everybody happy, that is the rule in corrupt officialdom, whether in Customs where even security guards partake from the manna, or among the police, where PO-1 has to share with the higher-ups.
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Quick—DOJ, NBI, Ombudsman, never mind the defunct ICI, get Amenah to tell the truth, before she disappears like Zaldy and Manny, or is gone like Cathy! As in DPWH, it is now revealed in all its gory details, from the “dilis” in the DE’s office, to the “sapsap” who are project engineers, to the “bangus” DE, to the “pampano” RD, the “tangigue, lapu-lapu’s and bluefin tuna” in the central office, the “pating” and the “buwaya” in Congress and Malacanang. That is how the whole corruption saga in the flood control atbp DPWH mess has unfolded before our very eyes, starting from “Mahiya naman kayo” to the now unearthed Cabral files. “Edi si Cong. Edi si Sen. Edi si Usec.” “Pati si Sec, si Chair. Pati si Speaker, si SP.” “Pati rin si ES.” But ES is a former jurist. Not your ordinary jurist, but once the highest magistrate of the land! “Kataastaasang mahistrado,” my Lola and her cousin, then a Court of Appeals “mahistrado” would reverentially call the chief justice whenever they met whether in our house during the town fiesta or lanzones party, or in an Ermita restaurant where they would lunch together, younger me in tow. So the former ES emphatically denies having made any request, endorsement or authorization of any DPWH project at any stage of the budget process. That denial is entirely believable. No
EDITORIAL
lawyer worth his salt, let alone a former chief justice, would be so foolish as to have himself identified as a proponent of budgetary allocations outside of his executive domain. So was his name used? His honor was borrowed? Cathy Cabral is gone. Maybe Bersamin’s nephew Adrian, or resigned DOJ Usec Jojo Cadiz, and most of all, resigned DBM secretary Amenah Pangandaman should be asked by the Ombudsman to shed light on this. If Bersamin did not say “E di ako,” or “pati ako,” then for whom was his name borrowed, his honor purloined? E di sino pa? How about resigned DPWH secretary Bonoan? If his Usec Bernardo, as per testimony before the Lacson Blue Ribbon, has been giving him choice cuts from all the projects he supervised, and with a part ownership in a four-star Clark ecozone hotel, why would he still ask for an “allocable” from another undersecretary, with paper trail at that? He may not be a lawyer, but even an engineer with a long service record in government knows that documents are discoverable. Hindi rin naman tanga. But then again, Cathy, who should have known “para kanino” the name of Bonoan was used, is now silenced. Maybe Amenah would know. Quick—DOJ, NBI, Ombudsman, never mind the defunct ICI, get Amenah to tell the truth, before she disappears like Zaldy and Manny, or is gone like Cathy! Since Cathy cannot corroborate Leviste, nor Bernardo’s “tell-all,” are we looking at a dead end? No sharks, no crocodiles will get charged because the evidence died with Cabral? The young Leandro Leviste, whose wealth provenance is now being questioned by his detractors, may have used unorthodox means to get the Cabral files, which Secretary Dizon now claims. But Leviste’s derring-do serves its purpose, and he puts Dizon’s team in a bind. And what will Ombudsman Boying do with the hot potato that both DPWH and Leviste claim are already in his hands? It is now Lean’s word against Vince who, after all the stress from a job he probably regrets he accepted, is now somewhere in the globe, skiing over some snow-laden slopes to momentarily forget the nightmare he has gotten into. Once again, where is Amenah, another alumnus of the late Edong Angara’s graduate school of government, just as Vince and Trygve were? Such a royal mess. If only our political royalty can be blamed for malfeasance or non-feasance, “where the evidence leads.” Malfeasance is criminal. Nonfeasance means “nabudol.”
New Year, new strategies WITH current developments in the country, people must be hoping 2026 will be a better year for them in terms of faith in government, health and economic well-being. The government as well should be busy strategizing how to meet the new challenges the New Year will bring because, by the looks of it, the public does not seem to think it is meeting their expectations. The economy, although still growing, is well below its full potential and its anti-corruption campaign is struggling to be credible. The government needs to shift gear to regain its footing for the people to perceive it as doing the right thing as well as in the other issues. That, after all, is the reason for its being: To serve the interest of the people. Unfortunately, however, it is more likely that we will be seeing more of the same. This is partly fueled by the mysterious death of former DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral and the appearance of the so-called Cabral files which she purportedly left behind. The files apparently fell into the hands of a young Congressman under
questionable circumstances and went on to reveal the names of former and current Cabinet secretaries who allegedly received flood control funds. We do not know his motives but his actions will just ensure the continuity of conspiracy theories surrounding the flood control scandal. Senator Ping Lacson himself said a couple of weeks ago he was winding down his Blue Ribbon Senate hearing and will now try to invite those mentioned to the Committee to shed light on the alleged Cabral file revelations. The question now is how the administration will handle this new development. Cabral in death now seems to be more able to give the government headaches by what all her paper and computer records are revealing. Quite simply, the government will now have to find a credible story to counter a dead person’s work records. Otherwise, the integrity of the ongoing investigations will further be damaged and the public will further lose faith in our judicial process. Since the Office of the Ombudsman has basically taken over the investigations, one of the things it must do is to show the
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Wish list 2026: Political and economic agenda
W
HAT to do at the start of the year?
What else but to sketch out a comprehensive wish list covering the political, economic, social, and foreign policy domains, and informed by key developments in 2025. These should be actionable, grounded in current challenges, and aligned with broader national interests. Here, we first tackle the political agenda covering governance, accountability, and institutions. One, government must strengthen transparency and anti-corruption frameworks. We know that 2025 was marked by widespread anti-corruption scandals and protests involving infrastructure projects that slowed public spending and eroded investor confidence. Priorities for 2026 should therefore include reforming the criminal justice system to accelerate and depoliticize corruption case resolution; strengthening the independence and resources of the Commission on Audit, Ombudsman, and judiciary to handle high-profile investigations; and enhancing digital procurement
and project management systems. Apart from these, government must strengthen local governance by decentralizing capacity and resources to local governments to promote efficient service delivery and shared accountability, particularly in disaster response and infrastructure oversight.
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Government must strengthen transparency and anti-corruption frameworks On the other hand, the government’s economic agenda must focus on growth, competitiveness, and inclusion. The first task is to restore and sustain economic confidence. Despite resilient GDP growth earlier in 2025, corruption concerns weighed on investment and slowed public expenditures, with growth dipping in Q3 2025 and revised forecasts suggesting modest improvement in 2026. The key priorities, according to experts, should include accelerating
credible fiscal consolidation and transparent public investment execution to support investor confidence. Government should also strengthen public-private partnership frameworks with rigorous safeguards against malfeasance; expand industrial competitiveness and diversification. To capture regional manufacturing momentum, policy actions should include incentivizing domestic value chain expansion in semiconductors, electronics, and renewable energy; modernizing logistics infrastructure to reduce costs and bottlenecks; enhancing access to affordable power and streamlined permitting; and broadening tax and non-tax incentives for export-oriented investment. Sustained progress requires strong labor force participation and productivity gains; upskilling programs linked to emerging sectors like digital services, advanced manufacturing, and green technologies; support frameworks for MSMEs including financing, digital adoption, and market access; and social protection programs that respond to structural shifts while promoting labor mobility. Can we expect government to start doing all of this? We really hope so.
In West Philippine Sea, sovereignty not up for rebranding —“—
Kindness does not cancel sovereignty, and it certainly does not grant legal standing where none exists
By Jose Antonio Goitia ON DEC. 26, China’s Embassy in Manila publicized an incident involving a People’s Liberation Army Navy vessel that allegedly provided food and water to a Filipino fisherman. The narrative was framed as a humanitarian gesture, carefully polished to portray China as a benign, stabilizing presence in the West Philippine Sea. But I see this for what it truly is: propaganda disguised as “rescue.” This was never just about aid. It was about narrative control—an attempt to use a single, orchestrated act to dilute a long, documented pattern of harassment, coercion, and intrusion. I have often maintained, kindness does not cancel sovereignty, and it certainly does not grant legal standing where none exists. Facts, Not Spin When dealing with such narratives, we must look to the record, not the theater. Commodore Jay Tarriela of the Philippine Coast Guard has set the record straight: there was no prior notice from the PLA Navy regarding the fisherman’s location. Furthermore, contrary to claims he had been adrift for three days, the fisherman was safely moored to a payao and recovered in under 24 hours. Most critically, this incident occurred within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone off Zambales.
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The public does not seem to think the government is meeting their expectations
process is not merely a “point system” wherein only the people the government wants to go to jail will go to jail and those who deserve to be incarcerated will go scot free. It must remember that in the SWS survey this month, the approval or trust rating of PBBM has gone south because
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
In these waters, the PLA Navy has no legitimate basis to operate. These facts matter because, without jurisdiction, presence becomes intrusion—no matter how it is packaged or “gift-wrapped” as charity. Compassion Without Concession The Philippines is a nation that values humanity and the maritime tradition of rendering aid. We do not reject humanitarian acts; what we reject is the cynical attempt to convert compassion into consent for an unlawful presence. Our rights are not a matter of debate. Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS and the 2016 Arbitral Award, our legal position is settled. We can recognize humanity without surrendering legality. Acknowledging a bottle of water or a bag of rice does not legitimize unauthorized operations, nor does it erase the intimidation our fishermen and coast guard face daily. Law Over Noise, Evidence Over Theater Under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Philippine response has shifted toward a deliberate and consistent strategy of transparency. We no longer trade in propaganda; we answer with facts, timelines, coordinates, and the law. This approach reflects a leadership that understands sovereignty is defended not
(The writer, who has a doctorate in philosophy, is Chairman Emeritus of Alyansa ng Bantay sa Kapayapaan at Demokrasya, People’s Alliance for Democracy and Reforms, Liga Independencia Pilipinas, and the Filipinos Do Not Yield Movement)
he is perceived, rightly or wrongly, as the principal director of the show. This, despite the fact he started this war on corruption with his “mahiya naman kayo” speech during his SONA last July and should be boasting his ratings instead of the other way around. There is obviously a disconnect somewhere. The surveys show the people are simply not buying what they are being told regarding the conduct of the flood control investigations. After repeated assurances of big fishes being charged or arrested none has happened and the public is just sending the Palace by way of the surveys their true sentiments. In a way, the blame is on the Palace. The formation of the ICI to conduct an independent and credible investigation
has not fully met public expectations although the Commission tried its best. With two of its members having resigned, it’s back to square one with the judicial organs of government ending up in control of the investigation process. Perhaps the Palace will take the New Year as an opportunity to come up with credible steps the public can have faith and identify with. Once the public start believing in the integrity and uprightness of the process, only then will the public allow the government to move on to other important issues needing attention. Otherwise, the nation will be stuck in this morass of a corruption scandal which has damaged the country in more ways than many people realize. In spite of all the problems confronting our country, let’s all wish one another a better and happy New Year.
through theatrics, but through discipline and fidelity to international standards. Strength is shown not by volume, but by clarity. Under President Marcos, our country has chosen to stand firm—calm, lawful, and unyielding. When your position rests on the bedrock of evidence, you do not need to shout. You simply present the record and let it stand. A Line That Will Hold In the West Philippine Sea, we are engaged in more than just a contest of vessels; it is a contest between truth and manipulation. We must remain clear-eyed and united. The line has been drawn. We are defending our rights with a resolve anchored in national dignity. Our waters are not props for foreign press releases; they are part of the Republic. As Chairman Emeritus of organizations dedicated to the truth and the stability of our nation, I remain firm in this conviction: Our sovereignty is not up for rebranding. We will defend our territory as it is— ours.
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
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026
mst.daydesk@gmail.com
Taiwan CG says Chinese ships ‘withdrawing’ after exercise
GOODBYE 2025.
US President Donald Trump shakes hands with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago club on Wednesday, Manila time, when they held a bilateral meeting to discuss regional security in the Middle East as well as the U.S.Israel partnership. The meeting came after two years of war that left much of the Gaza Strip in ruins, US pressure helped land a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in October. But with each side already accusing the other of flagrant violations, no one is sure how long the break in hostilities will hold. AFP
‘Fragmentation fuels world crises’ G ENEVA—The outgoing United Nations refugee chief fears an increasingly fragmented world is fueling global conflicts and crises, and inflaming hostility towards people desperately fleeing for safety.
Reflecting on his decade at the helm of the UNHCR, Filippo Grandi told AFP that one of the most worrying developments had been how divisions had left the world seemingly incapable of resolving conflicts—and increasingly unwilling to deal with the repercussions. “This fragmentation of geopolitics that has caused the emergence of so many crises is perhaps the most wor-
rying thing,” the Italian diplomat said in his final interview as UN High Commissioner for Refugees. “This world is unable to make peace; has become totally unable to make peace.” Grandi meanwhile lamented a “race to the bottom” in terms of countries tightening laws and practices to keep asylum seekers and refugees out.
He noted “a growing hostility, a rhetoric by the populist politicians targeting and scapegoating people on the move.” Speaking at UNHCR’s Geneva headquarters a day before the end of his tenure, Grandi said he had been inspired over the past decade by how regular people worldwide showed kindness and hospitality to people on the move. “In spite of all the politics, in spite of the real challenges that these movements represent,” he said, there is still a “deeply entrenched sense that if somebody flees from danger, one has the responsibility to help”. He also highlighted inspiring mo-
ments, including in 2021 when he witnessed former Colombian president Ivan Duque grant legal status to 1.7 million Venezuelans. And more recently, “at the border between Lebanon and Syria and talking to people who had made the choice to go back just a few weeks after the fall of the Assad regime”. But the exhilaration felt in such moments had been matched by the “anger and profound sadness” felt in others. “The worst is always when you witness an exodus that is caused by the most horrifying violations of human rights,” he said, pointing to Myanmar and Sudan. AFP
IN BRIEF Train crash near Peru’s Machu Picchu hurts 40 LIMA—A head-on collision between two trains on the line that services Peru’s Machu Picchu killed one person and injured at least 40 others, authorities said, updating an earlier toll. The deceased was the conductor of one of the two trains, according to the prosecutor’s office in Cusco, the city closest to the famous Inca citadel. Officials said they were working to identify the injured train passengers, many of them foreign visitors and most of them seriously hurt. Videos sent by passengers to the RPP television channel showed injured victims lying next to the tracks with two damaged locomotives standing idle nearby. A dozen ambulances and medical personnel were rushed to the site in a remote Andean area without direct road access. Police wearing hardhats and neon-colored jackets carried injured passengers on stretchers from the trains to receive treatment. AFP
Bangladesh mourns ex-PM Khaleda Zia DHAKA—Bangladesh bids farewell on Wednesday to former prime minister Khaleda Zia with a state funeral expected to draw vast crowds, mourning a towering leader whose career defined politics for decades. Zia, the first woman to serve as prime minister in the South Asian nation of 170 million people, died on Tuesday aged 80. “Khaleda Zia has been an inspiration,” homemaker Sharmina Siraj told AFP, adding that “it is difficult to imagine women in leadership positions anytime soon.” The 40-year-old mother of two said stipends introduced by Zia to support girls’ education “had a huge impact on the lives of our girls. To me, this is her biggest contribution”. Despite years of ill health and imprisonment, Zia had vowed to campaign in elections set for February 12— the first vote since a mass uprising toppled her archrival Sheikh Hasina last year. AFP
Whitlock Jr., ‘The Wire’ actor, dies at 71 LOS ANGELES—American actor Isiah Whitlock Jr., who played a corrupt politician on HBO crime drama “The Wire” and had roles in numerous films directed by Oscar winner Spike Lee, died at age 71 on Tuesday (Wednesday, Manila time), his manager said. “It is with tremendous sadness that I share the passing of my dear friend and client Isiah Whitlock Jr. If you knew him -- you loved him. A brilliant actor and even better person,” manager Brian Liebman wrote on social media. Whitlock delighted audiences as slimy politician Clay Davis on action-packed drama “The Wire,” based on former journalist David Simon’s gritty tales from the seedy underbelly of drug-trafficking and criminal politicking in Baltimore, Maryland. Writers on the show leaned into his character’s catchphrase, a drawn-out pronunciation of the word “shit” that lasted several syllables—“sheeeee-it.” AFP
DRONE ATTACK DENIED. A pedestrian walks on snow at a park during a snowfall in Kyiv on Tuesday, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This, after Ukraine denied launching a drone attack on one of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s residences and accused Moscow of peddling falsehoods to manipulate talks on ending the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he would meet with leaders of Kyiv’s allies on Jan. 6 in France in a bid to renew peace efforts. AFP
TAIPEI—Chinese warships and coastguard vessels are withdrawing from waters around Taiwan, the island’s coastguard said Wednesday, with Beijing’s military drills appearing to be “over”. China launched missiles and deployed dozens of fighter jets, navy ships and coastguard vessels around the island on Monday and Tuesday in live-fire drills aimed at simulating a blockade of the Taiwan’s key ports and assaults on maritime targets. Taipei, which slammed the twoday war games as “highly provocative and reckless”, said the maneuver failed to impose a blockade on the island. Communist China has never ruled democratic Taiwan, but Beijing claims the island of 23 million people is part of its territory and has threatened to use force to annex it. “The warships and coastguard vessels are withdrawing, but a few are still lingering outside the 24-nautical-mile line,” Hsieh Ching-chin, deputy director-general of Taiwan’s coastguard, told AFP, indicating the “drills should be over”. Taiwan’s coastguard has maintained a deployment of 11 ships at sea because China Coast Guard vessels “haven’t completely left the area yet” and “we can’t let our guard down,” he said. AFP
France’s homeless wrap up, survive at freezing point PARIS—In the biting cold, homeless friends Danish and Sylvain walked briskly in the dark towards a hot meal distribution point, rubbing their hands together, their huge backpacks weighing down on their shoulders. “If you stop, the cold seeps into your bones. As long as we’re walking, we’re producing heat,” said 50-yearold Danish, a Pakistani who asked to withhold his surname to avoid embarrassing his France-based family. Temperatures in France have dropped in recent weeks and are expected to hover around zero in many areas on New Year’s Eve. Several French regions including Paris have increased shelter beds to help the homeless, but reports have already emerged of some appearing to have frozen to death. Sylvain, 52, said he and his companion checked the weather forecast on their phones every night to best prepare. The Frenchman, who also did not want to give his surname to protect his three children, said he wore six layers on his chest—a t-shirt, a jumper, a fleece, a waistcoat and two jackets. AFP
Shanghai’s elderly waltz back to the past at dance halls SHANGHAI—A group of retirees cheered under disco lights as 60-year-old Xu Li leapt into her partner’s arms, her legs spread akimbo in perfect splits. It was just a regular Wednesday at one of Shanghai’s many lunchtime dance clubs, a phenomenon born of the city’s deeply rooted love of ballroom culture from its jazz-age heyday. On any given day, multiple venues host hours-long daytime sessions across the finance hub, some starting as early as 6 am. Establishments such as the historic Para-
mount Ballroom are time capsules from the 1930s, while others flash with neon pink and green rave lights in the early afternoon. All are important spaces for their mostly elderly clientele to socialize and reclaim the past through the medium of foxtrot, rumba and polka. “I was quite lonely at home,” 66-year-old Lin Guang told AFP at a dance hall called Old Dreams Of Shanghai in December, explaining he had felt lost after retiring. “Coming here to dance makes me feel young
again. Now, I seem to have endless energy.” Wine-red velvet curtains and cabaret lights framed the sprung wooden floor as a live band played Shanghai jazz classics. Women, some dressed in vintage gowns or sleek traditional qipao dresses, took out elegant dance shoes, while the men’s footwear was meticulously polished and their hair neatly combed. “We want to recreate a bit of old Shanghai culture,” said 69-year-old bandleader Jin Zhiping. AFP
Reg’l temperature records broken worldwide in 2025 PARIS—Central Asia, the Sahel region and northern Europe experienced their hottest year on record in 2025, according to AFP analysis based on data from the European Copernicus program. Globally, the last 12 months are expected to be the third hottest ever recorded after 2024 and 2023, according to the provisional data, which will be confirmed by Copernicus in its annual report in early January. But the average, which includes land and oceans, masks overall records for certain parts of the world. Many poorer nations do not publish detailed climate data, so AFP has completed the global picture by independently analyzing Copernicus data from climate models, measurements from about 20 satellites, and weather stations. The data spans the whole world, hour by hour, since 1970. Here is what the detailed analysis revealed for 2025, during which 120 monthly temperature records were broken in more than 70 countries. AFP
SAUDI WARNING. Yemenis members of the Sabahiha tribes of Lahj, who live along the strip between the south and north of the country, gather during a rally to show their support for the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council, which wants to revive an independent South Yemen, as they wave the old South Yemen flag in Khormaksar Square, in the coastal port city of Aden, the temporary capital of the Republic of Yemen on Dec. 14, 2025. Saudi Arabia warned on Dec. 27, 2025 it would back Yemen’s government in any military confrontation with separatist forces. AFP
SPORTS
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2025
‘Sincaraz’ set to dominate ‘26 season S Italy’s Jannik Sinner (left) is congratulated by Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz at the end of their men’s single final match at the ATP Finals tennis tournament, in Turin. Alcaraz and Sinner are gearing up for more world domination in 2026, starting at the Australian Open, while Aryna Sabalenka is bubbling with confidence as she chases further Grand Slam success.
French tandem stripped of Sydney-Hobart race overall win SYDNEY — A French crew were on Wednesday stripped of overall victory in the prestigious Sydney to Hobart yacht race over a rule infringement. New Caledonia-based duo Michel Quintin and Yann Rigal claimed victory for BNC in the overall Tattersall Cup, determined by a complicated handicap formula which allows smaller boats to compete with bigger and faster rivals. But a race panel later added more than one hour to their finishing time after upholding a complaint by secondplaced Min River over an incorrectly secured sail. “Not in my wildest dreams did I think this would come true for me,” said Min River co-skipper Jiang Lin after learning she had become the first woman to win the race, which was in its 80th edition. “I did not have hopes of winning. You think about all the 100-something boats, all the big boats and superb sailors out there.” said Jiang, one of just 13 woman owners and skippers among the 128 vessels that left Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day. “It hasn’t sunk in yet. Maybe I will wake up and say: ‘Oh that was a dream’.” Master Lock Comanche took the honours Sunday as the first boat to cross the finish line in Hobart, ending LawConnect’s bid for a third straight win in the annual bluewater classic. AFP
BRAVE CF kicks year with return to Serbia BELGRADE -- BRAVE Combat Federation™ (BRAVE CF), the world’s fastestgrowing and most global mixed martial arts organization, will usher in 2026 in electrifying fashion with the official announcement of BRAVE CF 104, returning to the heart of Europe with a landmark event in Serbia. In partnership with the Serbian MMA Federation, BRAVE CF 104 will take place at the Aleksandar Nikolić Hall in the nation’s capital of Belgrade on Saturday, February 14, headlining BRAVE International Combat Week. The card stands as the culminating spectacle of a celebratory week of high-level competition, following the IMMAF European Championships, further reinforcing Serbia’s growing stature on the global MMA stage.
Mohammed Shahid, President of BRAVE Combat Federation, stated: “Kicking off the new year in Serbia carries immense meaning for BRAVE CF. This country has consistently delivered unforgettable moments for our organization, driven by some of the most passionate and knowledgeable fans in the world. Beginning 2026 in Belgrade reflects our commitment to celebrating MMA cultures that truly embrace the sport. BRAVE CF 104 will be stacked from top to bottom, showcasing elite talent from across the globe, and we are determined to deliver a night that once again raises the bar for international mixed martial arts.” The upcoming showcase represents BRAVE CF’s third venture into Serbia,
building upon a remarkable history that began with BRAVE CF 56 in December 2021 and continued with BRAVE CF 69 in February 2023. The promotion’s most recent outing in the country saw more than 20,000 fans pack the Belgrade Arena, as Abdisalam “Omok” Kubanychbek captured the vacant BRAVE CF Lightweight World Championship against Kamil Magomedov in an action-packed main event. With that track record as the backdrop, BRAVE CF 104 is quietly loading something special. All signs point to reigning BRAVE CF Bantamweight World Champion Borislav Nikolić potentially putting his coveted gold on the line — and doing it in front of his home crowd.
The new season gets under way on Friday with the mixed-teams United Cup in Perth and Sydney, headlined by women’s world number two Iga Swiatek and men’s world number three Alexander Zverev. Top-ranked Sabalenka, who is pursuing a third Melbourne Park trophy, starts at the Brisbane International from January 4-11 in a stellar field also boasting Australian Open champion Madison Keys and fourth-ranked Amanda Anisimova. Alcaraz and Sinner, or “Sincaraz” as they have been dubbed, play an exhibition in South Korea on January 10 in their only warm-up before the Australian Open eight days later. While Spanish sensation Alcaraz bumped his Italian rival from the season-ending world number one spot, Sinner had the last laugh by edging him to retain his ATP Finals title in Turin. It capped a stellar year in which Sinner retained his Australian Open crown and added a landmark triumph at Wimbledon among six titles, despite missing three months over a doping ban. “I feel like a better player than last year,” said Sinner after completing his 2025 campaign with 58 wins and just six defeats. “A lot of wins and not many losses. And in the losses I had, I tried to see the positive thing and tried to use it to evolve me as a player.” Alcaraz was similarly dominant, clocking a 71-9 win-loss record with eight titles including the French Open and US Open. But he is yet to go beyond the quarterfinals at the Australian Open, losing to Novak Djokovic in the last eight in 2025. It is the only Slam missing from his resume and the 22-year-old will start afresh with a new coach after his shock split from Juan Carlos Ferrero, who mentored him since he was 15. AFP
Arise, Sir Scott Dixon: IndyCar champ knighted
Philippine MMA felt every high and low in 2025 PHILIPPINES mixed martial arts in 2025 felt like a year that sprinted out of the gate, raised its hands in triumph, then stopped to catch its breath and never quite found its rhythm again. It was a season defined by historic victories and sobering reminders of reality, by moments that deserved parades and stretches that tested the patience of even the most loyal supporters. To understand where the sport stands today, one has to sit with both pride and unease. The year opened with a moment that changed the narrative forever. Denice Zamboanga’s second-round stoppage of Alyona Rassohyna last January delivered more than the ONE Interim Women’s Atomweight World Championship. It delivered history. When Stamp Fairtex later relinquished the belt, and Zamboanga was elevated to full status as the divisional queen, the Philippines finally had what it had long chased. A Filipina holding a major MMA crown. It was definitive. That image alone will outlive the calendar year. February added another chapter to the country’s championship lineage. Joshua
YDNEY— Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are set for more world domination in 2026, starting at the Australian Open, while Aryna Sabalenka is bubbling with confidence as she chases further Grand Slam success.
Pacio settled every lingering argument by stopping Jarred Brooks in their trilogy, securing the undisputed strawweight throne and reinforcing his place among the nation’s most accomplished champions. There was clarity in that performance, a reminder that excellence still lives here when preparation meets opportunity. Beyond the global spotlight, regional and grassroots triumphs told their own important story. Geli Bulaong’s gold medal run at the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, even as a demonstration event, showed that Filipino mixed martial artists can thrive in multi-sport arenas. Youth victories, highlighted by Charlie Ratcliff’s Asian Youth Games success, hinted at a future quietly forming behind the scenes. These were not flukes. They were indicators. There were also personal reinventions and overdue returns. Lito Adiwang’s move to flyweight ended emphatically with a first-round knockout. Jhanlo Sangiao reminded everyone of his finishing instincts after a long absence. Locally, Jake Bron and Kimbert Alintozon produced a nearly five-round classic for the vacant Zeus Fight League flyweight championship, capturing everything raw and chaotic about the sport. Contract news also brought optimism. Stephen
Loman returned to BRAVE Combat Federation, and Drex Zamboanga found new opportunities with the Bahrain-based MMA organization. Movement, at least for some, suggested progress. Then came the other half of the story. The year 2025 also carried the weight of endings heavier than expected. Eduard Folayang’s quick submission loss to Shinya Aoki was painful not because of the defeat, but because it reinforced a rivalry that time had already settled. Kevin Belingon’s defeat to Bibiano Fernandes added another somber note to a once-glorious chapter. Watching these pioneers circle familiar opponents again raised uncomfortable questions about direction. Even success carried disappointment. Pacio’s attempt at a second division crown ended abruptly in Tokyo. Zamboanga’s withdrawal from a planned world title defense stalled momentum when anticipation was at its peak. Danny Kingad spent much of the year inactive. Jeremy Pacatiw struggled against high-caliber foes. Carlo Bumina-ang and Carlos Alvarez showed promise but stumbled against elite competition. On the other hand, a handful of highly touted prospects learned the hard way that hype does not equal readiness. What tied these lows together was not simply losing. It was the gaps between
bouts, the quiet months, and the limited platforms that left fans wondering whether momentum had quietly slipped away. Local professional promotions struggled to sustain regular activity. Legacy rivalries, once inspiring, increasingly felt like hesitation rather than homage. The sport risks letting opportunity pass while waiting for perfection. In hindsight, 2025 was not a bad year. It was an incomplete one. It proved that Filipino fighters can still reach the summit, but it also exposed structural weaknesses that success alone cannot mask. If activity does not increase and fresh names are not trusted sooner, the country risks watching its historic moments become isolated events rather than the foundation of a growing ecosystem. Yet hope remains stubborn. It always has. The belts won this year matter. The lessons learned might matter even more. Philippine MMA does not need nostalgia. It needs motion. As the calendar turns, the challenge is simple and unforgiving. Turn promise into consistency. Turn silence into action. And make sure that the next historic moment does not stand alone. (For comments or questions, reach the author at nissi.icasiano@gmail.com or visit his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/nissi.icasiano.)
WELLINGTON — Six-time IndyCar motor racing champion Scott Dixon said it was a “huge honour” to receive a knighthood in the New Year’s honours list, announced Wednesday. The 45-year-old is New Zealand’s most decorated racing driver in modern times and also a generous donor to several children’s charities. He will become a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to motorsport, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said. “It was pretty shocking, to be honest,” Dixon told AFP, recalling his disbelief when he received notice of the honour. “You maybe think it’s a spam email or something like that, and I had to read it over a couple of times to fully understand it,” said the racer, who now has the title Sir Scott Dixon. “I’m extremely lucky. I get to do what I love to do, racing has been a huge part of my life for many, many years, which has also enabled me to do many things, you know, help local communities here in New Zealand, or in America. “It’s definitely shocking, and a huge, huge honour.” Dixon won the IndyCar driver’s title in 2003, 2008, 2013, 2015, 2018 and 2020, and he was winner of the 2008 Indianapolis 500. AFP
Scott Dixon
SPORTS
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RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
Alex Eala capped her breakthrough season in the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand, where she ended the Philippines’ 26-year goldmedal drought in women’s tennis singles.
Manny Pacquiao vs. Mario Barrios. AFP
Nikola Jokic
Jokic out for 4 weeks after injury LOS ANGELES — Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic faces at least four weeks on the sidelines after suffering a left knee injury in a defeat to Miami, the Nuggets confirmed on Tuesday. Three-time NBA Most Valuable Player Jokic collapsed to the court after a collision with team-mate Spencer Jones just before half-time in Monday’s game in Miami. The Serbian ace did not return to the game after suffering the injury, which Nuggets coach David Adelman later described as “gut-wrenching”. Replays of the incident showed Jokic’s knee buckling awkwardly after Jones stepped on his foot while defending, prompting concern of possible knee ligament damage. However the Nuggets confirmed in a statement on Tuesday that the 30-yearold had escaped serious injury, suffering only a hyperextended left knee. “Nikola will be re-evaluated in four weeks,” the team said in a brief statement. 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. As well as Jokic, there were more grim injury bulletins on Monday with the Chicago Bulls losing both Coby White and Josh Giddey during their defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves. White exited in the first quarter with a calf problem, while Giddey limped out of the game in the second half with a sore hamstring. AFP
Eala, Pacquiao, NBA battles dominate ’25 Google Search T
HE Philippines’ passion for sports was undeniable in 2025, as local and international athletic events, along with top-tier athletes, took center stage in Google’s annual Year in Search lists. The data confirms that Filipinos remain glued to global basketball, while homegrown talents continue to inspire massive search interest. Filipino pride leads the pack Filipino athletes captured the public’s imagination, securing top spots across multiple categories: Alex Eala: The Year’s Top Female Personality Pro tennis player Alex Eala had a breakout year in search, ranking as the No. 1 Trending Female Personality overall. Her search prominence was further solidified by her placing at No. 4 on the Trending Sports list, highlight-
ing her growing impact beyond her sport. She capped her breakthrough season in the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand, where she ended the Philippines’ 26-year gold-medal drought in women’s tennis singles. Manny Pacquiao’s legacy Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao proved his star power is undiminished, with “Pacquiao vs Barrios” landing at No. 2 on the Trending Sports list. The search interest around his bouts shows the Filipino public’s continuous support and excitement for the icon. Pacquiao’s comeback fight on July 19, 2025, may have ended in a close ma-
jority draw against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, allowing the American to retain his title. But it was still impressive nonetheless as the 46-year-old Pacquiao fought a boxer 16 years his junior. Basketball takes the championship spot Basketball maintained its status as the nation’s favorite sport, with NBA action driving a significant portion of the searches: The highest-trending term in the Sports category was an NBA matchup: “OKC vs Indiana” at No. 1. General interest in the league remained high, with “NBA standings 2025” placing at No. 3. The enduring popularity of a dynasty was evident as the “Golden State Warriors” trended at No. 8.
Norway’s Magnus Carlsen wins 20th world chess title
World champion and highest-ranked chess player Norway’s Magnus Carlsen arrives for the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships 2025 at the Sports and Events Complex, at Qatar University in Doha. AFP
PARIS — Norway’s Magnus Carlsen, the world’s number one chess player, on Tuesday won the World Blitz Championship in Doha, days after victory in the slightly longer ‘rapid’ format, to secure his 20th world title. Carlsen, 35, beat Uzbekistan’s Nodirbek Abdusattorov, 21, in the final, securing victory with black in the fourth and final game, after losing the first. Blitz games are played with three minutes at the start for both players, plus an additional two seconds per move. Carlsen almost failed to reach the semifinals after suffering three defeats in the 19 qualifying games, finishing third in the standings. He beat American Fabiano Caruana in the semis to take on Abdusattorov, rapid world champion in 2021. On Sunday, Carlsen was crowned rapid world champion, where players have 15 minutes and 10 seconds added per move,
finishing first in the regular standings, with the competition taking place without a final phase. The Nordic grandmaster now has nine blitz titles, six in rapid and five in the most prestigious longer format, which involves more than 10 games between the world champion and a challenger. Carlsen relinquished his long-format crown in 2023, citing lack of motivation. It is now held by India’s Dommaraju Gukesh. In October, he and the International Chess Federation (FIDE) backed a new world championship format that sets the stage for his return. The new “Total Chess World Championship Tour” will consist of four events a year and will crown one combined champion for three disciplines: fast classic, rapid and blitz. A pilot version of the competition will be tested in the autumn of next year, with the first full season set for 2027. AFP
Southeast Asia’s rising stars Eala, Tjen vie in Auckland meet By Peter Atencio TWO rising stars in Southeast Asia, Alex Eala of the Philippines and Janice Tjen of Indonesia, are set to make their debut in the 2026 ASB Classic in Auckland. Eala and Tjen, who represented their respective countries in the recent Southeast Asian Games, will compete next to Elina Svitolina and Emma Navarro, who are the top two seeds of the tournament. The world no. 53 Eala, who just won a women’s singles’ gold medal for the Philippines in the SEA Games, has been seeded fourth in this WTA 250 event, which will begin on Jan. 5. The world no. 56 Tjen got the fifth seeding in this meet, which was won in the past by Venus Williams, who is entered as a wild card, with Great Britain’s Katie Boulter. Eala is preparing for the coming Australian Open and the presence
of Williams, who won her 46 of 49 career titles in Auckland, will make the competition a challenging one for everyone. The last time Williams was in the finals, she won over Caroline Wozniacki for the crown over a decade ago. Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam champion, is back after a 16-month layoff, after beating Peyton Stearns in Washington and taking Karolina Muchova to three sets at the US Open. The field is composed the leading 92 players on the world rankings. Svitolina, with a career high ranking of no 3 in the world, is tipped to reach the finals again. She was runner-up at the ASB Classic in 2024 to Coco Gauff. This will be Eala’s only official event before she heads to the Kooyong Classic exhibition and her main draw debut at the Australian Open, which will be open on January 18.
Janice Tjen
NBA star Tyrese Haliburton was a notable individual search, appearing on both the Sports list (No. 10) and the Male Personalities list (No. 6). The global basketball stage also saw high search volume for international events like “Eurobasket” (No. 9) and the regional “FIBA Asia Cup” (No. 5).Other Sports and Personalities Beyond basketball and boxing, other sports and high-profile international athletes rounded out the trending topics: Tennis and Volleyball generated significant interest, with “Wimbledon 2025” trending at No. 6 and the “Premier Volleyball League” at No. 7. In the Trending Male Personalities list, two American football stars and an emerging basketball prospect made the cut: Travis Kelce (No. 9) and Bronny James (No. 8).
Burst tire, speed contributed to Joshua crash, say investigators LAGOS, Nigeria — A Nigeria traffic compliance agency said Tuesday that preliminary investigations showed the car involved in an accident in which former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua survived had a burst tire before hitting a stationary truck. The British boxer was in a “stable condition” in hospital after the Monday car accident that killed two close associates, his promoter said on Monday. Joshua, 36, was admitted at Lagos’s Duchess International Hospital, according to the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) in Ogun state where the accident occurred. The smash happened on Monday morning on a main road linking Lagos and Ibadan in the southwest of the country. TRACE’s spokesman Babatunde Akinbiyi told AFP that “from the preliminary investigation that was conducted, definitely there was overspeeding on the part of the SUV Anthony Joshua was travelling in”. “In the course of that, the front tire on the passenger side burst,” he said. “That led to loss of control before the vehicle now swerved and rammed into the stationary truck that was parked. There was excessive speed....” Pictures and videos circulating online and also shared by local state authorities showed a shirtless Joshua -- a British national of Nigerian heritage -- grimacing in pain as he was helped step out of the car. Others showed a mangled wreckage of a black sports utility vehicle. His promoter Matchroom 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”. Nigerian police said the two victims died “at the scene”. Joshua’s family hails from the southwest Nigerian city and he is known to visit there when he is in the country. AFP
BUSINESS
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026
extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor
WHAT’S INSIDE?
GIFT-GIVING.
Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN) completes the mobilization of over P 3.2 million worth of assistance through its annual Handog sa Pasko ng MGEN (HAPAG) initiative, supporting community activities and the distribution of Noche Buena gift packs in time for the holiday season. HAPAG reached more than 6,300 beneficiaries in communities surrounding MGEN’s power plants nationwide, nearly doubling last year’s reach. The initiative was carried out through MGEN’s thermal and renewable energy subsidiaries, reflecting its collective commitment to supporting host communities across its diversified portfolio.
Aboitiz leads retail electricity market
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DA faces challenges in rice pricing
B3 Group seeks support for small exporters
B4 CAB warns public about air ticket fraud
US agency predicts lower $58.2 billion rice, corn harvests in PH $263.86 billion P
Net external liability
By Othel V. Campos
HILIPPINE rice and corn production is expected to decline in marketing year 2025/26 as severe typhoon damage and difficult post-harvest conditions outweigh government support measures, the Foreign Agricultural Service Manila of the US Department of Agriculture said in a report. The USDA marketing year is a 12-month period that tracks agricultural commodities, starting after harvest like Sept. 1 to Aug. 31 for corn or Aug. 1 to July 31 for rice. The agency noted in its Dec. 22 report that rice output would likely drop due to lower palay harvests in the fourth quarter of 2025. Despite high fertilizer costs, farmers have continued planting thanks to expanded
government subsidies and programs designed to stabilize farmgate prices. While production dips, rice consumption is projected to remain strong because of population growth and stable retail prices. Rice imports are estimated to decrease following the extension of an import ban from Sept. 1 to Dec. 31. This combination of lower domestic production and reduced imports is ex-
pected to pull down ending stocks. To mitigate the impact on growers, the Philippine government introduced a floor price for palay and expanded national storage capacity. Corn production is also forecast to fall because of weather disruptions in key producing regions during the third quarter of 2025. Although the second quarter saw a strong harvest, the gains from improved yields were offset by typhoon-related losses. Total corn consumption is nevertheless expected to rise, driven by demand from the broiler, layer, pet food and recovering swine industries. Ending corn stocks are projected to decline as tight supplies and lower global prices discourage feed millers from holding large inventories. No major policy changes were reported for the corn sector.
By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) warned the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent ticket schemes and unauthorized sellers misrepresenting themselves as airline affiliates following a series of reports involving misleading prices and invalid bookings. The airline regulator said it received reports of passengers transacting with individuals claiming to be affiliated with airlines or accredited travel partners. These scammers often request payments through unofficial channels, resulting in invalid or non-existent bookings, additional charges and disrupted travel plans that undermine consumer protection measures, it said. CAB advised passengers to exercise prudence by purchasing tickets only through official websites, ticketing offices, mobile applications or accredited travel partners. The agency noted that buying from authorized sources ensures that fares and conditions of carriage are transparent and properly honored by the air carrier. The warning follows a recent incident where Cebu Pacific canceled several bookings found to be purchased using fraudulent or stolen credit cards. Investigations revealed that scammers used stolen cards to book flights and converted them into travel funds, which were then used to illegally resell tickets to unsuspecting passengers through unauthorized third-party channels.
PH investments in foreign assets
$322.08 billion Foreign investments in PH assets
PH net external liability dropped 13.2% in Q3 By Thony Rose Lesaca
FAMILIARIZATION TRIP. The Department of Tourism’s Frankfurt Office Love The Philippines - Germany with the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines (TPB) and fvw bring 30 German travel agents to Cebu, Bohol, Boracay and Manila from Dec. 3 to 13, as a joint strategic marketing effort designed to boost arrivals from the German market up to 30,000 across the country and other German-speaking market. The group took immersion and familiarization trip around diverse Philippine historical and attractions such as Chocolate Hills, Loboc River Cruise, Canyoneering to Kawasan Falls and the old Manila.
DHSUD implements housing reforms, 4PH expansion THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) ended 2025 by implementing a series of regulatory reforms and expanding the government flagship housing program to include rental and modular options. The agency said in a statement it moved to address a backlog of more than 3,800 actionable issues involving regulatory functions following the introduction of an 8-point agenda in May 2025.
DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling said his office maintains a policy of zero tolerance for corruption as the department transitions toward a fully digitalized processing system by 2028. Under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the department recalibrated its primary initiative into the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program. The revised framework now includes horizontal developments, rental housing and the Enhanced Community Mort-
gage Program (ECMP) alongside the original vertical housing model. As part of these efforts, DHSUD and DEPDev issued Joint Memorandum Circular 2025-001 on Dec. 1 to adjust the price ceiling for socialized housing projects. The Department of Finance and Bureau of Internal Revenue also issued Revenue Memorandum Order No. 048-2025 to create a uniform tax exemption process for socialized housing developments.
India outpaces Japan as 4th largest economy
HOUSING BENEFICIARIES. The Social Housing Finance Corp. (SHFC),
together with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), delivers assistance to two Enhanced Community Mortgage Program (ECMP) beneficiary communities in Pasig City on Dec. 16, 2025. DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling and SHFC president and chief executive Federico Laxa led the ceremonial turnover of checks worth over P23 million for the acquisition of land in Barangay Pinagbuhatan, where the beneficiaries’ homes stand.
NEW DELHI—India has overtaken Japan as the world’s fourth-biggest economy—and officials hope to pass Germany within three years, the government’s end-of-year economic review calculates. Official confirmation, however, depends on data due in 2026 when final annual gross domestic product figures are released, with the International Monetary Fund suggesting India will cross over Japan next year. “India is among the world’s fastest-growing major economies and is well-positioned to sustain this momentum,” read the government economic briefing note, which was
released late Monday. “With GDP valued at $4.18 trillion, India has surpassed Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, and is poised to displace Germany from the third rank in the next twoand-a-half to three years, with projected GDP of $7.3 trillion by 2030.” IMF projections for 2026 put India’s economy at $4.51 trillion, compared with Japan’s $4.46 trillion. New Delhi’s upbeat assessment comes despite economic worries after Washington in August hit New Delhi with huge tariffs over its purchases of Russian oil. AFP
THE Philippines’ net external liability position eased 13.2 percent to $58.2 billion at the end of September 2025 from $67 billion in June, according to data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. The BSP attributed the improvement in the international investment position to a combination of rising external assets and a reduction in foreign obligations. The latest figure represents 12.1 percent of the country’s gross domestic product, down from 14.1 percent in the second quarter. Total Philippine investments in foreign assets grew 1.9 percent to $263.86 billion from $258.95 billion in the previous quarter. This was led by a 2.9-percent increase in reserve assets, which reached $109.1 billion. Local residents also increased their holdings in foreign-issued debt securities to $38.9 billion and equity capital placements in foreign affiliates to $36.7 billion. Foreign investments in Philippine assets fell 1.2 percent to $322.08 billion. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) noted that the drop in outstanding external financial liabilities reflected lower nonresident holdings of equity securities at $34.7 billion and a decrease in equity capital investments to $59.3 billion. BSP officials said these trends mirrored the subdued performance of the Philippine Stock Exchange Index. They also noted that valuation adjustments resulting from the appreciation of the US dollar contributed to the decline in the stock of liabilities. Data showed that on a year-onyear basis, the net external liability position decreased 7.1 percent from $62.7 billion. This was led by an increase in both total external assets and external liabilities compared to the same period in 2024.
BUSINESS
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026
extrastory2000@gmail.com
Aboitiz leads retail electricity market by demand By Alena Mae S. Flores
T
HE Aboitiz Group recorded the highest market share by demand in the Competitive Retail Electricity Market (CREM) at 26.79 percent, equivalent to 1,296.58 megawatts as of September 2025.
Under retail competition and open access rules, the CREM allows large power users to choose their suppliers to lower electricity costs. The Aboitiz Group includes Adventpower Inc., AdventEnergy Inc., AP Renewables Inc., SN Aboitiz Power-RES Inc., SN Aboitiz Power-Magat Inc. and Therma Luzon Inc. The figures are based on the latest report from the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) Market Operation Service. The report noted that in terms of the number of retail customers served, the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) Group serves the greatest number of CREM end-users. The group serves 803 customers with a combined peak demand of 1,309.15 MW. The Meralco Group comprises MPower Inc., Vantage Energy Solution and Management Inc., Clark Electric Distribution Corp.-Local RES, MeridianX Inc. and Global Energy Supply Corp. MPower, Meralco’s retail supply segment, is the local supplier with the highest number of customers, serving 648 end-users, or 27.84 percent of the
TECON’S AWARD. Tecon Suape S.A. (TSSA), International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s (ICTSI) business unit in
Pernambuco, Brazil, receives the 2025 Ocean Friend seal as it is once again recognized as one of the country’s leading environmentally responsible port facilities. The award was presented at Suape Conecta, an event organized by the Suape Port Industrial Complex.
market total. The ERC reported the CREM weighted average price (WAP) at P5.73 per kWh. This was calculated from data submitted by 31 retail electricity suppliers (RES) and two local RES with contracts during the third quarter of 2025. Meanwhile, Ayala Corp.’s ACEN Group emerged as the primary renewable energy supplier. It serves the highest number of Green Energy Option Program (GEOP) customers at 403, with an equivalent demand of 134.92 MW. The ACEN Group consists of DirectPower Services Inc. and ACEN Corp. The GEOP allows power users to choose suppliers that specifically offer renewable energy. The GEOP weighted average price stood at P6.16 per kWh, calculated from data provided by 13 of the 14 renewable energy suppliers with active contracts in the third quarter. The ERC issues these reports to provide market performance analysis and public transparency, enabling business decisions regarding the efficient use of electricity.
Security Bank speeds up AI, API technology adoption SECURITY Bank Corp. said it is accelerating its multi-year technology transformation through strategic investments in artificial intelligence, real-time data platforms and modern architecture to enhance operational resilience and customer service. The lender said its initiatives over the first nine months of 2025 have streamlined core systems, leading to improved compliance efficiency and faster service delivery across its network. The bank said it shifted from traditional batch processing to enterprise-grade data streaming, allowing it to deliver instant insights and support faster transactions. Central to this modernization is the Enterprise API Platform, which received the Technology Excellence Award for API-Banking at the 2025 Asian Technology Excellence Awards.
By converting banking capabilities into secure and reusable API products, the bank aims to enable faster deployment of new services and strengthen its readiness for open banking. Security Bank said it also digitized its compliance and branch operations through the Transactor Due Diligence platform. Now active across 346 branches, the digital Know Your Customer workflow has eliminated paper reliance and reduced processing times. The initiative was recognized as the Best Compliance Risk Technology Initiative at the Asian Banker Global Financial Technology Awards. The bank said it intends to continue its roadmap with further investments in artificial intelligence for fraud management, advanced cybersecurity and the modernization of core banking
payments. Future plans also include API monetization and the pursuit of embedded finance partnerships to maintain a competitive advantage in the local market. Security Bank chief operating officer Lucose Eralil said the bank is building a modern and customercentric foundation designed to support sustainable growth. He said the progress reflects disciplined execution and a forwardlooking approach to the evolving financial landscape. Established in 1951 and listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange under the symbol SECB, Security Bank provides retail, corporate and commercial banking services. Its offerings include lending, leasing, foreign exchange and investment banking.
Thin holiday trading leaves Asian shares mixed; gold price steadies
GOLF TOURNAMENT. Cooltech, the all-Japan refrigerated van brand distributed by Centro Nippon Fruehauf Cooltech Inc.,
makes a strong impression at this year’s VDS Golf Tournament held at the prestigious Wack Wack Golf and Country Club. Attending the event are CFCI VP Rommel Juan, Albert Dy Sun, Mike Ong, Jonathan Ong and San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora.
HONG KONG, China—Asian stocks were mixed at the start of the final trading day of 2025 on Wednesday, with some tracking Wall Street losses as investors eased towards the New Year break. Trading remained thin in the holiday-shortened week, though precious metals appeared to steady after seeing a sharp pullback from recent record highs. Markets in Hong Kong and Australia edged lower while Shanghai and Taipei saw small morning gains in what has been a strong year for worldwide markets. The movements came after Wall Street’s main indices closed slightly lower on Tuesday as worries over valuations of artificial intelligence (AI) stocks lingered. Still, US indices remained on track for solid gains over 2025 as a whole,
and markets in Asia similarly enjoyed a healthy year. Seoul’s Kospi climbed more than 75 percent and Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 more than 26 percent over 2025. Both markets were closed on Wednesday. Official data showed factory activity in China ticked up slightly in December, a silver lining to an otherwise lackluster end to the year for the world’s second-largest economy. The Federal Reserve’s monetary easing in the second half of this year has been a key driver of the global market improvements, compounding a surge in the tech sector on the back of the vast amounts of cash pumped into AI. Minutes of the Fed’s recent policy meeting in December indicated that most of its officials see future rate cuts as appropriate, if inflation cools over time as expected. AFP
EDSA rehab the ‘most awaited’ event in Metro Manila this year
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THE Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) road rehabilitation is finally underway this year. Motorists and commuters by next week and after the long holiday break will have redrawn their “battle” plans to meet the traffic challenges posed by the EDSA rebuild. It is the mostawaited and most dreaded construction job for our wary commuters in Metro Manila. EDSA motorists and commuters will likely look at alternative routes like España Boulevard and Taft Avenue, or Roxas Boulevard, to navigate their way to the financial district of Makati and the southern parts of Metro Manila. They can try C-5, although this route may be a worse alternative. Traffic congestion along EDSA, for sure, will worsen further during the rebuid stage. The average daily number of vehicles that ply EDSA is estimated at 385,000 against the road’s carrying capacity of 250,000. The major highway spans seven cities of Metro Manila—Caloocan City, Quezon City, San Juan, Mandaluyong, Pasig City, Makati and Pasay City. The rebuild is a nightmare for workers and students traversing the road. Yet, the construction work is necessary for the safety of motorists and speedier flow of traffic. Poor road maintenance can result in accidents and loss of lives in extreme cases. Smooth roads, on the other hand, offer better “skid resistance.” Degraded roads also entail higher fuel consumption and damage suspension systems and wheel alignments—an added cost to the Filipino motorists.
The EDSA rehabilitation works actually began on December 24, with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) shortening the project timeline to eight months to minimize disruptions to motorists. DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon took advantage of the two-week holiday break to carry out major road works. The rehabilitation is being implemented in two phases and it is set to be completed within eight months, or much shorter than the original two-year plan. Under the revised schedule, the first four months of rehabilitation will cover the stretch from Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City to Orense Street in Makati City, while the remaining four months will focus on rehabilitating the rest of EDSA. During this period, round-the-clock reblocking works and asphalt overlay of the EDSA busway lanes will be undertaken. Dizon said the project would use new Japanese road technology, including stone mastic asphalt, which is expected to make repairs faster, more durable, and less disruptive. The revised plan is also expected to cut the project cost to about P6 billion, generating savings of up to P11 billion from the earlier P17-billion proposal. Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez assured the EDSA Busway would remain operational throughout the rehabilitation, with enough buses deployed to ensure uninterrupted service. About 100 buses are to be added to the EDSA carousel route to encourage commuting
It is the ... most dreaded construction job for our wary commuters in Metro Manila. and address the traffic schemes that will be implemented by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to reduce the number of private vehicles on the major road. The Department of Transportation (DOTr), meanwhile, will build 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). The EDSA carousel has helped commuters a lot. The travel time from Quezon City to Makati, for one, can be reduced to as short as 15 minutes, even during the holiday rush. But rehabilitating EDSA is not the cure-all for reducing traffic congestion. As I’ve written in the past, the underlying issues that cause traffic are still not being addressed. It is a fact that the rehabilitation of EDSA and other major streets is long overdue. The uneven road conditions have posed severe hazards to motorists and commuters. Will EDSA’s reconstruction job provide the real answer to Metro Manila’s traffic nightmare? The EDSA rebuild, in my opinion, is just a superficial solution to traffic congestion. A growing population, the lack of mass
transportation system and wide roads, and the continuous migration of workers from the provinces to Metro Manila have created the perfect storm that is causing traffic mayhem in the whole of the capital region. Urban decongestion provides the real solution to traffic gridlock. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has pursued in the past the development of nearby provinces and cities to decongest Metro Manila. New and expanded roads and railway networks will ease traffic in the metropolis, but they can only provide quick fix remedies to the urban snarl. Developing and improving mobility in Metro Manila’s nearby provinces such as Bulacan, Pampanga, Laguna and Cavite are among the priorities that will address the traffic problems. Building a satellite city just outside Metro Manila or less than 100 kilometers from the metropolis makes better sense as President Marcos suggested. The only way to improve the traffic situation and the quality of life in the capital region is through decongestion. New satellite cities, hopefully, will rectify the past mistakes of city planning. They will generate new jobs and can reverse the migration of workers to Metro Manila. By decongesting Metro Manila, the capital region can plan and respond better to the demand for infrastructure and social services of a growing population. E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com
BUSINESS
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DA faces challenges in palay pricing in 2026 By Othel V. Campos
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EEPING palay prices fair, expanding the P20-per-kilo rice program and fast-tracking farm-to-market roads will be the Department of Agriculture’s biggest tests heading into 2026, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said. Tiu Laurel said the priorities are central to sustaining rice production, keeping food affordable and improving farmers’ market access. The most urgent concern, he added, is ensuring palay prices remain fair and rice farming stays profitable. The DA will continue the National Food Authority’s palay procurement during the summer harvest at P17 per kilo for wet palay and P21 per kilo for dry palay. The agency is also coordinating with rice industry stakeholders to manage import volumes and prevent imports from pushing farmgate prices down. In September, the president ordered a freeze on rice imports, later extended through December, after excessive imports dragged farmgate prices down to as low as P8 per kilo. The import pause capped rice shipments at about 3.5 million metric tons in 2025, which Tiu Laurel said was more appropriate than the 4.8 million metric tons imported in 2024. Another major challenge is the full rollout of the P20-perkilo rice program under “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” The government plans to expand the program to reach up to 15 million households, or around 60 million Filipinos. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the DA to sustain the program until the end of his term in June 2028. “Next year will mark the full implementation of the P20 rice program. We believe we are ready, but it is easier said than done,” Tiu Laurel said. Expanding the program will require adequate buffer stocks, efficient logistics and close coordination with local governments to avoid supply disruptions or leakages. A third challenge in 2026 is implementing around P33 billion in farm-to-market road projects recently transferred to the DA. These are expected to move forward once the General Appropriations Act is released. Tiu Laurel noted the DA is starting from scratch after years of farm-to-market road construction being handled by the Department of Public Works and Highways. Given the tight timelines, the agency has been holding near-daily coordination meetings. The DA said it is confident it can deliver the projects at costs up to 20 percent lower than in previous years, extending market access to more farms nationwide.
Officials of the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC) in Manila inaugurate the new Ear Diagnostics-Hearing Center to address the rising prevalence of hearing loss among the elderly.
Chinese General Hospital opens advanced hearing center By Michael Wong Ho CHINESE General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC) in Manila has inaugurated its new Ear DiagnosticsHearing Center to address the rising prevalence of hearing loss among the elderly. The facility provides specialized auditory diagnostics and advanced hearing care using the latest audiometry technology available in the Philippines. CGHMC medical director Dr. Samuel Ang said the center aligns with the hospital’s vision of becoming a comprehensive healthcare institution. Ang said providing services for common degenerative conditions like hearing impairment is essential as the local population ages.
The project was established through a partnership between CGHMC and Ear Diagnostics Inc., a leading distributor of hearing aids and audiometric equipment. Otorhinolaryngology–head and neck surgery section head Dr. Alexander Cukingnan described the opening as a dream come true for the hospital, noting that the team overcame budget constraints and space limitations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic to finish the facility. Ear Diagnostics Inc. executive vice president and clinical audiologist Dr. Rhodieleen Anne de la Cruz said the center is equipped with state-of-the-art tools. These include pure tone audiometry to measure sensitivity and speech audiometry to evaluate how well patients understand spoken words in ev-
Business group supports DOF measures to curb tax audit abuse
DOT lauds selection of Boracay as world’s best beach in 2025 THE Department of Tourism lauded the selection of White Beach in Boracay as the top beach in the world for sunbathing, surfing and doing nothing in the Condé Nast Traveler 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. The 2.5-mile stretch of white sand in Malay, Aklan, secured the number 1 spot on the luxury travel magazine’s list of the top 15 global beaches. Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the recognition affirms the Philippines as a world-class destination, noting that Boracay, Palawan and Siargao also ranked among the top 10 islands in Asia for 2025. Condé Nast writer Kat Chen labeled the island as a premier destination where the seaside landscape is matched by a vibrant social and nightlife scene. The magazine said that while the island is less than four square miles in size, its powdery sand and clear waters continue to attract international travelers despite a temporary closure in 2018 for environmental rehabilitation. The island is divided into three stations that offer distinct experiences, ranging from high-end luxury at Station 1 to a lively atmosphere at Station 2 and a more laid-back environment at Station 3. Readers highlighted the island’s club culture, where visitors frequently congregate for live music and cocktails along the beachfront. Beyond Boracay, Palawan ranked number 5 among Asia’s best islands, with voters highlighting the PuertoPrincesa Subterranean River. The underground river spans more than 5 miles and is recognized as one of the longest navigable subterranean waterways in the world. Siargao took the number 7 spot in the Asian category. The teardropshaped island, located about 500 miles from Manila, was praised for its coconut groves and mangrove forests. Despite the recent construction of the P1 billion Catangnan-Cabitoonan Bridge and a new sports complex, the island maintains a reputation as an unspoiled getaway for its 160,000 residents and visiting surfers.
eryday environments. The center also offers tympanometry to assess middle ear function, computerized hearing aid prescriptions, soft silicone earmolds, earplugs and real ear measurements. Specialized services such as conditioned play audiometry, auditory brainstem response and auditory steady-state response are also available by appointment. Patients have access to the latest computerized hearing aids designed to be sleek and adaptable to various lifestyles. While specific pricing for the new services was not immediately disclosed, the hospital management said the technology ensures devices adapt seamlessly to different environments.
PMAAAI CENTER. Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. chairman and Chief executive Alejandro Tengco (second from left) leads the blessing and inauguration of the Philippine Military Academy Alumni Association Inc. Center for Leadership and Excellence at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig on Dec. 16. The completion of the mid-rise, multipurpose facility worth P600 million marked a key milestone for the country’s premier military alumni organization. The center was funded by the Newport World Resorts Foundation which PAGCOR approved and supported in 2024.
TSMC says started mass production of ‘most advanced’ 2nm chips TAIPEI, Taiwan—Taiwanese tech titan TSMC has started mass producing its cutting-edge 2-nanometre semiconductor chips, the company said in a statement seen by AFP on Wednesday. TSMC is the world’s largest contract maker of chips, used in everything from smartphones to missiles, and counts Nvidia and Apple among its clients. “TSMC’s 2nm (N2) technology has started volume production in 4Q25 as planned,” TSMC said in an undated statement on its website. The chips will be the “most advanced technology in the semiconductor industry in terms of both density and energy efficiency”, the company said. “N2 technology, with leading nanosheet transistor structure, will deliver full-node performance and power benefits to address the increasing need for energy-efficient computing.” The chips will be produced at TSMC’s “Fab 20” facility in Hsinchu,
in northern Taiwan, and “Fab 22” in the southern port city of Kaohsiung. More than half of the world’s semiconductors, and nearly all of the most advanced ones used to power artificial intelligence technology, are made in Taiwan. TSMC has been a massive beneficiary of the frenzy in AI investment. Nvidia and Apple are among firms pouring many billions of dollars into chips, servers and data centers. AI-related spending is soaring worldwide, and is expected to reach approximately $1.5 trillion by 2025, according to US research firm Gartner, and over $2 trillion in 2026—nearly two percent of global GDP. Taiwan’s dominance of the chip industry has long been seen as a “silicon shield” protecting it from an invasion or blockade by China— which claims the island is part of its sovereign territory—and an incentive for the United States to defend it. AFP
THE Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) expressed support for Finance Secretary Frederick Go’s move to introduce measures curbing the alleged misuse of letters of authority within the Bureau of Internal Revenue. The business group said the initiative is a timely step toward strengthening taxpayer protection and ensuring enforcement powers are exercised within the bounds of law. PCCI president Enunina Mangio said tax enforcement should be firm but fair, noting that the misuse of audit powers erodes trust and discourages voluntary compliance. The chamber said businesses have long raised concerns over tax audit practices, including the use of letters of authority and mission orders for activities beyond limited fact-finding. Other issues include audits that continue beyond their validity or scope, repeated audit notices covering the same periods and a lack of transparency in the monitoring of audit authorities. When left unchecked, these practices expose taxpayers to undue pressure and weaken confidence in the tax
system, according to the PCCI. The group said that while enforcement is essential to revenue generation, it should be balanced with safeguards that protect due process and ensure accountability. PCCI officials said that properly issued, time-bound and digitallytracked audit authorities are critical to maintaining a level playing field. The group underscored the importance of these reforms to investment promotion, noting they help protect foreign investors from arbitrary or abusive practices. Clear rules and consistent enforcement are key to reinforcing the Philippines’ reputation as a predictable place to do business, the group said. Mangio said protecting taxpayers from abuse is not anti-enforcement, but is instead pro-good governance. The chamber said it looks forward to collaborating with economic managers and the BIR through the BIRPrivate Multisectoral Group. The coalition of business organizations said it coordinates with the tax bureau on issues and concerns to support reforms that promote transparency and accountability. Othel V. Campos
DESLUDGING SCHEDULE. Manila Water encourages customers across the
East Zone to start 2026 with a clean and healthy home environment as the company releases its desludging schedule for January 2026 covering selected barangays across the East Zone of Metro Manila as well as towns and cities in Rizal.
BUSINESS
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026
extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor
Trade group seeks support for MSMEs amid 19% US tariff By Othel V. Campos
AI-READY. Aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s push for a smarter and digital government, the Philippines, represented by Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Undersecretary and chief-of-staff Faye Condez-De Sagon shares the country’s bold vision for an AI Ready Government at the Google Leader Exchange APAC 2025 in Singapore. Condez-De Sagon demonstrated the DICT’s ‘Three-Layer Strategy’ for digital transformation which involves building the foundation with nationwide connectivity through the national fiber backbone; strengthening the structure through the eGovPH App; and adding intelligence with AI tools like Gemini and Google Workspace to make government processes faster and more efficient for Filipinos.
DOE to auction 230-MW waste-to-energy projects By Alena Mae S. Flores THE Department of Energy has issued a notice of auction for 230 megawatts of waste-to-energy projects as part of a special round of its Green Energy Auction Program. The auction is exclusively for facilities using thermal combustion technology to process municipal solid waste, it said. Winning bidders will be required to deliver power starting Jan. 1 to March 1, 2028, under a 25-year supply delivery period. The agency expects the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to set the Green Energy Auction price for these projects within 30 calendar
days of the notice publication. Any bid exceeding this price or the prescribed capacity will be discarded automatically. The electronic bidding platform will rank submissions from lowest to highest price offers until the installation target is met. The department will hold the auction about 60 days from the issuance of the notice, with certificates of award expected to be issued around 157 days after the launch. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin signed Department Circular No. DC 2025-11-0026 on Nov. 3, 2025, establishing the framework for wasteto-energy technology. Garin said integrating these projects into the power mix is a strategic
approach to address growing energy demand and increasing solid waste generation. Projects that process waste from highly-urbanized cities or clustered local government units and achieve commercial operations by March 31, 2028 will be designated as pioneer WTE projects. These facilities will be eligible for priority permitting, dispatch and other incentives. The department said it reserves the right to reject any bid or annul the process at any time prior to the award without incurring liability or the obligation to inform affected bidders. The special round supports the clean energy scenario outlined in the Philippine Energy Plan.
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HE Export Development Council–Networking Committee on Legislative Advocacy and Monitoring asked Congress to strengthen support measures for small businesses following the imposition of a 19-percent tariff by the United States on all Philippine exports. During an organizational meeting of the House Special Committee on Globalization and the World Trade Organization, the group said congressional action is critical to help micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) exporters cope with rising trade costs and tighter market access. EDC–Networking Committee on Legislative Advocacy and Monitoring chairperson Rami Amer Hourani said MSMEs face structural constraints that limit their ability to respond to external shocks. These include overlapping certification requirements, fragmented government support and stricter domestic compliance rules than those applied to imported products sold locally. “These conditions leave MSMEs with very little room to absorb new tariffs or adjust quickly to changes in global trade,” Hourani said. He warned that many small exporters could be forced to scale down operations or withdraw from the US market without legislative intervention.
To address these challenges, the group proposed that Congress expand access to affordable financing for MSMEs and institutionalize technical assistance programs to help exporters meet foreign regulatory standards. It also requested a mandate for stronger inter-agency coordination to reduce compliance costs. The committee cited the need for closer collaboration among the Food and Drug Administration, the Department of Agriculture and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority to streamline regulatory processes affecting exportoriented small businesses. The group also called on Congress to support market diversification initiatives and increased MSME participation in major international trade fairs. It said that both short-term relief and long-term competitiveness measures are necessary to protect jobs, strengthen domestic supply chains and support rural communities linked to the export sector.
BSP recognizes SEC as innovative financial education partner in 2025 By Jenniffer B. Austria THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) recognized the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as one of its innovative financial education partners during the 2025 Financial Education Stakeholders’ Congress. The BSP confers the award on agencies that implement creative and scalable financial education programs promoting financial resilience and inclusion. To qualify, organizations should demonstrate effective systems for institutional learning and impact measurement. Other agencies recognized by the BSP
include the Department of AgricultureAgriculture Credit Policy Council, the Department of Education, the Asian Development Bank, the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) and the Insurance Commission. SEC chairman Francisco Lim said it is an honor for the commission to be recognized for initiatives that ensure people can make smart investment decisions. He said the commission remains unwavering in its fight against investment scams and illegal lenders while leveraging partnerships with agencies like the BSP to reinforce financial literacy.
SAFETY AWARENESS. As part of Aboitiz InfraCapital’s commitment to safety awareness, Laguindingan International Airport
(LIA) team members participate in an awareness and data assessment workshop for CAAP Area (Region) 10 airports on Dec. 4 to 5, 2025 conducted by CAAP Aeronautical Information Services at LIA. The infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group said it implemented the measures in collaboration with the Department of Transportation and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. The upgrades mark the first phase of improvements since the company took over operations of the two provincial gateways in mid-2025 under multi-year concession agreements.
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BINONDO FFCCCII president Victor Lim conveys sincere blessings to Filipino-Chinese communities.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026
extrastory2000@gmail.com
FFCCCII hopes for unity, economic renewal in 2026 T By Julie Ann Lope
HE Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) led by its president Victor Lim issued a New Year message, extending sincere blessings to Filipino-Chinese communities.
In a statement, Lim expressed hopes for good weather and abundant harvests, peace and prosperity for the Philippines and its people in the coming year. He reflected on the challenges faced by the Philippine economy in the third quarter of 2025, noting that GDP growth dropped to 4 percent, marking the lowest figure in four years. He attributed the decline to several factors, including scandals affecting government spending on
infrastructure projects, slowing consumption and extreme weather events like typhoons. While he anticipates a rebound in the economy in the fourth quarter, he cautioned that inflation pressures and uncertainties in foreign trade continue to loom. Looking ahead to 2026, Lim sees the Philippines as the second-fastestgrowing economy in ASEAN, led by strong internal demand, robust overseas remittances and fiscal stimulus.
Chinatown charity spreads joy with Christmas gift-giving By Michael Wong THE Manila Chinatown Charity Foundation held a Christmas giftgiving event on Dec. 7, 2025. Aside from the regular free medication, the group distributed 500 bags of rice, each containing 5 kilograms, to patients and nearby marginalized residents. Manila City District 3 councilor Jefferson Lau and Senator Imee Marcos participated in the event and brought toys and bread for the children. Founded in 1986, the Manila Chinatown Charity Foundation is dedicated to providing free medication every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., assisting and treating over 20,000 patients annually. According to its executive director Dr. Xu Huan Ran, the foundation’s commitment to service over the past 41 years has established it as a pillar
The Manila Chinatown Charity Foundation holds a Christmas gift-giving event on Dec. 7, 2025.
of the Filipino-Chinese community, known as the “Filipino Chinese
Community Three Treasures.” With their expertise, the foundation
continues to save lives and provide essential healthcare to those in need.
Community spirit shines in Manila District 3’s event
Chinese envoy commends Filipino-Chinese business leaders CHINESE Ambassador Jing Quan visited esteemed Filipino-Chinese business leaders Lucio Tan, Carlos Chan and Chen Zuchang to extend holiday greetings and commend their longstanding contributions to promoting friendship between the Philippines and China. Tan is the chairman of the LT Group Inc., overseeing a vast conglomerate that includes Philippine Airlines, Philippine National Bank, Asia Brewery, Tanduay Distillers and Fortune Tobacco Corp. As a former immigrant from China who started as a janitor, Tan quickly ascended in the tobacco industry, establishing his own companies and creating jobs that significantly impact the Philippine economy. His business ties with China bolster trade relations between the two countries, enhancing economic exchanges and cooperation. Chan is the owner of Oishi, the global snack empire he founded in 1974. Taking a bold step into the Chinese market in 1993, he teamed up with state-owned companies and invested $3.5 million in his first Shanghai factory. Today, the Liwayway Group operates 15 factories across China and ad-
ditional facilities in several countries. Chan’s role as Special Envoy to China under multiple administrations highlights his dedication to fostering economic ties and cultural understanding, making Oishi a household name in the region. Zuchang began his journey in 1935 in Fujian, China. In 1997, he founded the Dowell Container and Packaging Corp. and became an incorporator of CTBC Bank in 1995. Today, he serves as chairman of the Philippine Dowell Group of Companies. Chen is also a dedicated philanthropist. In 2004, he founded the Philippine Soong Ching Ling Foundation to give back to society and enhance bilateral relations. It engages in poverty alleviation initiatives, childcare programs, and the construction of schools and houses. Tan has built 86 rural schools across the Philippines over the past 30 years. As a goodwill ambassador for China-Philippine Charity, Chen facilitates numerous cooperative projects and cultural exchanges, significantly deepening ties between the two nations. His efforts have established over 100 economic and trade cooperation projects. Michael Wong Ho
Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan visits Filipino-Chinese business leader Lucio Tan to extend holiday greetings and commend his longstanding contributions to promoting friendship between the Philippines and China.
He identified the digital economy and renewable energy as emerging growth sectors. He acknowledged that challenges remain, including a weak manufacturing base, limited financial capacity, high dependence on foreign countries, and vulnerability to international trade and geopolitical tensions. Lim called on all Filipinos to work together to navigate these challenges. He noted that the Philippines will serve as the ASEAN chair in 2026, an opportunity he believes will drive economic revitalization and social prosperity. He said the Philippine government is committed to translating the ASEAN integrity agenda into business growth and ensuring inclusive opportunities for all. Reflecting on his nine-month tenure as FFCCCII president, Lim described his experiences as a rich and rewarding journey. He expressed gratitude for the honor of serving the public and reported on key achievements, including promoting various FFCCCII projects focused on Filipino-Chinese education, free medication, charity initiatives and fostering closer coordination with the Philippine government on national building and social peace. He reaffirmed his commitment to fighting for the legal rights and interests of the Filipino-Chinese community while strengthening the bond between the Philippines and China. Lim appealed to the FilipinoChinese community for continued support, particularly from the media, to help FFCCCII enhance its service. He reiterated his best wishes for the New Year, hoping for a year of unity and progress for the Philippines.
The Philippine Consulate General concludes its year-long celebration of the 50th anniversary of Philippines–China diplomatic relations with film series titled Sine Filipino sa Konsulado.
Film series celebrates PH-China ties THE Philippine Consulate General concluded its year-long celebration of the 50th anniversary of Philippines–China diplomatic relations with film series titled Sine Filipino sa Konsulado. Running from Nov. 29 to Dec. 13, 2025, the event featured three weekends of engaging cinema that highlighted Filipino culture and experiences. The film series kicked off with a selection of four acclaimed short films: Jodilerks Dela Cruz: Employee of the Month, Pusong Bato, Excuse Me, Miss, Miss, Miss and Ngohiong. The films provided a glimpse into the everyday lives and cultural nuances of the Philippines, resonating deeply with the audience. The second weekend showcased the documentary Ang Babae sa Likod ng Mambabatok, which focuses on Apo Whang-Od Oggay, a revered cultural bearer. The film celebrated the creativity, resilience and enduring values of indigenous Philippine traditions, enriching the viewers’ understanding of Filipino heritage.
Capping off the series was the screening of Sonata, a full-length feature by acclaimed filmmakers Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes. It explores Filipino culture through music and lullabies, weaving narratives of love, friendship and the transformative power of art. Throughout the series, audiences enjoyed Philippine tourism videos, insights into the Consulate’s new visa process, traditional Filipino snacks and original Pilipino music (OPM), creating a vibrant cultural tapestry that celebrated film, cuisine, and travel promotion. Consul General Iric Cruz Arribas said cultural diplomacy plays a vital role in strengthening peopleto-people ties and showcasing Philippine creativity and traditions to local communities. The film screenings aligned with the 18-day campaign to end violence against women, utilizing the medium of film as a powerful platform for dialogue on social issues, inclusion, and human dignity. The films featured in Sine Filipino sa Konsulado were provided by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP). Julie Ann Lope
THE Manila’s District 3 hosted a charity event “Pamaskong Handog ng Councillor Jefferson Lau” on Dec. 19, 2025 at Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz in Binondo. The initiative garnered support from various associations within the Filipino-Chinese community, raising 12,000 bags of rice, each weighing 5 kilograms. The bags of rice were distributed to thousands of underprivileged families to alleviate their hardships during the holiday season. Manila District 3 councilor Jefferson Lau said local government employees, including members of the police and fire brigade units, would also receive bags of rice from the initiative as recognition for their dedicated service to the community. The event underscores the commitment of the FilipinoChinese community to giving back to society and fostering harmonious relationships between Filipinos and Chinese, especially during the festive season. Julie Ann Lope
Manila’s District 3 hosts a charity event on Dec. 19 at Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz in Binondo.
SHOWBIZ
C2 THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
By Angelica Villanueva
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A record-breaking year for Filipino talents
ROM international film festivals to global music charts and major talent competitions, Filipino talent made consistent waves across global entertainment platforms in 2025, marking the year as one of visibility, recognition, and steady international breakthroughs.
Indeed, 2025 was the year Filipino talents conquered the world. Here are the biggest moments that sparked conversation and celebrated #PinoyPride. January: ‘Hello, Daisy’ opens the year on a global stage Filipino independent film Hello Daisy, written and directed by Franky Arrocena, opened the year with a strong showing at the Emirates Film Festival, winning Best Emerging Filmmaker for Arrocena. The film also earned Best Actress honors for Mia Cabaobao and Best Screenplay for Arrocena, marking a triple win for the Philippine entry. Baguio-based band Cup of Joe makes Billboard history as the first Filipino act to debut on the Billboard Global 200 with their viral hit ‘Multo’
May: Lola Amour and JJ deliver major international music wins Filipino alternative band Lola Amour earned international recognition in May after receiving the Special Award for Philippine Popular Music at the 2025 Music Awards Japan (MAJ). The honor was presented during the inaugural MAJ ceremony held at Rohm Theatre in Kyoto, celebrating the band’s chart-breaking hit “Raining in Manila.”
SB19’s fanbase A’TIN claims the Billboard Fan Army Face-Off title for the third straight year, outvoting global fan communities in the annual competition
August: A’TIN named Billboard’s top fan army P-pop group SB19’s dedicated fanbase, A’TIN, continued their winning streak in August by claiming the Billboard Fan-Army Face-Off for the third consecutive year. The annual fan-voted competition, which began on July 14, 2025, pitted international fan communities against each other in a five-week voting process. In the final round, A’TIN defeated Selena Gomez’s Selenators, securing 60.1 percent of the votes compared with 39.9 percent. September: Filipinos dominate global stages September saw Filipino artists reach significant international milestones. Jessica Sanchez made history by winning America’s Got Talent Season 20, earning the highest number of public votes and surpassing finalist Chris Turner. The “Nation’s Girl Group” BINI became the first Filipino act invited to Coachella 2026, performing on April 10 and 17 alongside Sabrina Carpenter and The XX. Meanwhile, Kirk Bondad was crowned Mister International 2025 in Thailand, outcompeting 41 contestants and extending the Philippines’ strong presence in global male pageantry.
Filipino indie film ‘Hello, Daisy’ opens 2025 with a triple win at the Emirates Film Festival, earning Best Emerging Filmmaker for Franky Arrocena and Best Actress honors for Mia Cabaobao
February: ‘Sunshine’ shines in Berlin Filipino cinema gained major international recognition in February when Sunshine won the Crystal Bear for Best Film (Generation 14plus) at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, one of the world’s most influential and competitive film showcases. Awarded by a youth jury, the Crystal Bear honors films that resonate strongly with younger audiences through storytelling, relevance, and emotional impact.
Filipino-Austrian singer Johannes Pietsch, known as JJ, wins the 69th Eurovision Song Contest in Switzerland with his song ‘Wasted Love’
Meanwhile, the same month delivered an even larger global spotlight as Johannes Pietsch, professionally known as JJ, won the 69th Eurovision Song Contest held in Switzerland. The classically trained Filipino-Austrian singer claimed the title with “Wasted Love,” blending operatic, multi-octave vocals with a modern techno arrangement. June: CJ Opiaza gives PH’s first Miss Grand International crown Beauty queen Christine Juliane “CJ” Opiaza made history in June by officially becoming the Philippines’ first Miss Grand International (MGI) titleholder. Opiaza, who was first runner-up in 2024, assumed the crown following the dethronement of Rachel Gupta of India, who had initially won the pageant but was removed amid controversies regarding fulfillment of her duties.
Maris Racal starrer ‘Sunshine’ brings Filipino cinema to the global spotlight after winning the Crystal Bear for Best Film (Generation 14plus) at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival
March: Michelle Mariposa gains momentum In March, Filipino-Chinese mezzo-soprano Michelle Mariposa achieved a major career milestone after being named one of the five winners of the Metropolitan Opera Eric and Dominique Laffont Competition, held March 16 at Lincoln Center in New York. Mariposa became the third Filipino and the first Filipino mezzo-soprano to win one of the competition’s top prizes, joining an elite group of Filipino vocalists previously recognized by the Met, including soprano Evelyn Mandac in 1966 and tenor Rodell Rosel in 2005. Filipino-Mexican bass Paul Corona won in 2006.
The ‘Nation’s Girl Group’ BINI earns an international breakthrough after becoming the first Filipino act invited to perform at Coachella 2026
October: Emma Mary Tiglao secures back-to-back win at Miss Grand International Emma Mary Tiglao delivered another milestone for the Philippines by winning the country’s second Miss Grand International crown, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a pageant powerhouse and continuing a strong year for Filipino representatives on global stages. November: Lav Diaz wins Golden Spike for ‘Magellan’ Filmmaker Lav Diaz’s Magellan won the Golden Spike (Best Picture) at the 70th Valladolid International Film Festival (SEMINCI) in Spain on Oct. 29, sharing the honor with Kelly Reichardt’s The Mastermind. The film, the Philippines’ official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars, added another major international accolade to Diaz’s career.
Beauty queen Emma Mary Tiglao (left) secures the Philippines’ second Miss Grand International crown after CJ Opiaza (right), continuing the country’s strong presence in global pageantry
July: JL Gaspar debuts as a K-pop idol P-pop star JL Gaspar officially entered the K-pop industry in July as the only Filipino member of the newly debuted multinational boy group AHOF (All-Time Hall Of Famer). He earned his spot in AHOF through the South Korean reality competition Universe League, which selected nine members from 42 contestants worldwide.
Lav Diaz’s ‘Magellan’ wins the Golden Spike for Best Picture at Spain’s Valladolid International Film Festival
December: Dennis Trillo closes the year with a major acting win The year ended on a high note as Dennis Trillo won Best Actor at the Asian Academy Creative Awards 2025, recognizing his performance and highlighting Filipino excellence in regional television and film.
Mezzo-soprano Michelle Mariposa reaches a major career milestone after being named one of the winners of the Metropolitan Opera Eric and Dominique Laffont Competition in New York
April: Cup of Joe’s ‘Multo’ makes Billboard history Baguio-based alternative band Cup of Joe made history in April after becoming the first Filipino act to debut on the Billboard Global 200, following the chart entry of their viral single “Multo.” The song debuted at No. 181 on the global chart, which tracks the most-streamed and downloaded songs worldwide. It also landed at No. 74 on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart, marking the highest debut and the first Filipino song to break into the Top 100 of the Excl. U.S. ranking.
P-pop artist JL Gaspar debuts as the only Filipino member of multinational K-pop boy group AHOF after competing in South Korea’s ‘Universe League’
Dennis Trillo caps 2025 with a Best Actor win at the Asian Academy Creative Awards
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LIFE & SHOWBIZ
THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026
Touchbass
National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab (right) graces Paco Arespacochaga’s podcast, ‘Paco’s Place’
Yugel Losorata
T
HE joke that everyone is now a content creator or news reporter cuts through. Anyone who can talk and knows how to upload or post on social media may end up being the next famous podcaster.
Strictly speaking, however, not everyone deserves to be one. Let Paco Arespacochaga, a recognized face in the band scene who earned a spot among leading Filipino celebrity podcast hosts thanks to his oft-visited, pun-intended Paco’s Place, answer why. He shared, “A podcast becomes effective when it caters to its niche audience. Anyone who has the courage, energy, and commitment to show up consistently deserves to have a podcast. It’s very humbling work.” There’s that keyword: humbling. You don’t do podcasting so you can show off (deep enough to conduct interviews), because your diction is cute, or as a sure way to gain relevance in the digital realm. You should have the reputation to command an audience, the appropriate content that is worth showcasing, and the diligence to keep it going. Paco himself exercises his passion for music and life coaching through constant live gigging and recording, and by coming up with Paco’s Place episodes one after the other. “Being a celebrity doesn’t assure success, but it does help generate initial reach,” he stressed. “Sustaining that reach still depends on authenticity.” In the fame game, Paco was for years the hottest drummer in the Philippines, especially at the time when “Line to Heaven,” a song he wrote for his parents and sang upon the urging of his bandmates, came out. He was the guy at the back who could write and front a hit song, as his Introvoys lorded the OPM charts even before Eraserheads and Rivermaya entered the picture. Paco’s Place, a podcast literally taped inside his house in Los Angeles County, California, began airing in 2019. As of this writing,
Paco (left) with PlayBack Jukebox bandmate Benjie Collantes and The Dawn drummer Junboy Leonor (seated)
Paco keeps the beat rolling from stage to podcasting it has garnered around 5.5 million views across 329 videos and counting. He mentioned a few guests he thinks are most remarkable so far, including rapper Andrew E., whose story he feels resonates with global Pinoys, and Geneva Cruz, who, given their shared history, was obviously an interesting subject. He did say that nearly all his interviewees provided “something honest and meaningful to the conversation,” except for a “bunch of kids who were acting obnoxious.” As for his personal motivation, he said, “I’m an artist, and I have something to say. I’m also a fan of artists, athletes, politicians, and people of influence. Growing up, I always wanted to hear them speak openly, but there wasn’t a platform like a podcast back then.” As an example of who should be doing a podcast over random souls forcing classless content to go viral, Paco helped one successful Fil-Am executive—Amabel Nugpo-De Leon— set up her own podcast, The Whole Story. He met her and her husband-business partner, Alan De Leon, when Introvoys performed for the latter’s birthday. The De Leons run multiple companies in the field of home health services and related ventures, most notably Vanura Homehealth Services, which is arguably the top of its kind in California’s Inland Empire region. Paco related, “Amabel De Leon is a very inspiring figure with a
true success story. I encouraged her to amplify her voice through her podcast. Their success comes from hard work, intention, and their genuine care for people.” Our star drummer is now a premier podcaster. But music will always be part of his routine. In fact, he’s focusing energy on his upand-coming band, PlayBack Jukebox, which started releasing records in 2023, including the songs “Lungkot, Malabo,” and their best to date, “Won’t You Come Home (I’m Sorry).” They’re quite a sensation on the live gig circuit. He is joined in the band by vocalist Benjie Collantes and keyboardist JJ Buencamino. “We’ve been performing all over North America and the Philippines, and soon heading to the Middle East next year,” he said. He directly addressed what people would ask: “As for INTRoVOYS, if the rest of the boys still have the energy to do live shows and initiate music, I’m going to give it space and time.” Paco had taken risks and saw his moves pay off. A few years after the Introvoys peaked, he flew to the US; teared up on his first day on an odd job, then years later convinced the others to join him in North America. For his parting shot to podcast wannabes and, yeah, life in general, Paco-ach insisted, “You either go all in or just stay home. The people who succeed are the ones who commit fully, stay consistent, and remain clear about why they do what they do.”
Stylish pendants that heal
The jewelry line features gemstones believed to support balance, clarity, and everyday well-being
p r o m o t e s relaxation. Aside from the scent, the stones are believed to emit vibrations that target the body’s energy centers. Chakra healing represents the energy centers of the body. Meditation, yoga, breathwork, affirmations, crystals, and gemstones can help promote energy balance, release blockages, and improve mental clarity and vitality.
Corso Como 88 introduces crystal vial pieces that double as accessories and alternative wellness tools
and sizes. According to the Corso Como store owner, the Wu Lu, or bottle gourd pieces, are the most popular. This powerful Feng Shui symbol represents good health, longevity, prosperity, and protection against negative energy. Women are drawn to all shades of red, while men prefer blue vials. They also have cute white vial pendants that are often worn by children and teens. The accessory appeals to both male and female clients, particularly those familiar with alternative healing modalities. And while clients may have a specific gemstone in mind when they enter the store, most of the time they end up selecting another type of pendant because it simply “feels different.” “You do not choose the stone, the stone chooses you,” Imelda said, adding that there have been several instances where clients are instantly drawn to a specific stone pendant for no reason. “They cannot let go of it anymore, and so they just had to buy it,” she said. Selecting a crystal vial pendant cannot be done in a hurry, as one must carefully examine each choice and quietly align with the vibe. Check these interesting pieces when you visit Corso Como 88 at One Ayala Mall.
Apart from the healing oil, the stone material allows the release of vibrations that align with the body’s energy centers. Jade is believed to enhance harmony, balance, and abundance. Rose quartz promotes love, gentle healing, and deep connection; tiger’s eye is linked to physical energy and well-being; and lapis lazuli enhances mental clarity. The stones are imported from Brazil, Germany, and Madagascar. By donning a Crystal Vial neckpiece or ring, wearers can benefit from the gemstone’s energy and the oil’s healing properties. The pendants come in all colors
Crystal Vials blend personal style with wellness, offering wearable pendants designed to hold essential oils
By Tet Defensor IMAGINE wearing a jade, lapis lazuli, amethyst, or rose quartz bottle pendant that diffuses healing oil and aligns with the body’s energy centers. Corso Como 88 recently welcomed Crystal Vials, wearable necklaces and rings with a stone pendant that can hold essential oils, perfumes, or other liquids. More than an elegant accessory, it also serves as a functional wellness tool. Corso Como 88 owner Imelda Sciandra learned about Crystal Vials from one of her clients, who sought relief from migraines using peppermint oil. Initially using a home diffuser that freely releases the scent, she came across a talented stone carver in Hong Kong, who created beautiful pendant diffusers from precious stones. The accessory allows the healing benefits of peppermint oil anytime, anywhere. Specific oils are associated with certain benefits. Lavender improves sleep, peppermint eases headaches, eucalyptus clears sinuses, and lemon and orange scents are known to lift the mood, while chamomile
NewJeans has become one of HYBE’s most successful acts since its debut in 2022
K-pop label files damages suit against ex-NewJeans member K-POP label ADOR has filed a compensation suit against former NewJeans member Danielle, her family, and the group’s former producer Min Hee-jin, seeking nearly 43.1 billion won ($30 million), the company said Tuesday. The suit follows Danielle’s removal from the group on Monday after a year-long dispute that stalled NewJeans’s activities. A court ruled in October that all five members must honor their contracts with ADOR, whose parent company HYBE also manages BTS. The conflict began in November 2024, when NewJeans announced their decision to leave ADOR. The company obtained an injunction in March, barring the members from engaging in commercial activities. ADOR said Danielle’s contract ended because it was “difficult for her to continue as… an artist under ADOR.” ADOR recently terminated Three of the group’s remaining four members have chosen its contract with NewJeans to stay, while Minji is still in talks with the label. ADOR said member Danielle former producer Min and Danielle’s family bear “significant responsibility” for the dispute and the band’s delayed return. NewJeans, who debuted in 2022, became one of HYBE’s top acts. The dispute followed allegations that HYBE forced Min out as ADOR CEO, prompting the members to demand her reinstatement. Band member Hanni said the group faced mistreatment, including “deliberate miscommunications and manipulation.” A Seoul court in October rejected claims that trust with ADOR had broken down. ADOR stated that the members had received “distorted and biased information,” which caused misunderstandings about the company. AFP
LIFE
C4
THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
NOW&NEXT By Nickie Wang
A practical wellness reset for 2026
A
S we enter a new year, advice on wellness goals and health routines arrives in waves, often filled with trends and quick fixes. The volume can feel overwhelming, making it harder to focus on habits that truly support well-being. Health experts say a simpler approach may work better. Instead of adding more rules each year, the focus can shift to making choices that fit individual lifestyles, energy levels, and needs. “Wellness is not one-size-fits-all,” said Dr. Vipada Sae-Lao, nutrition education and training lead for Asia Pacific at Herbalife. She said health routines are more effective when they are practical, personalized, and rooted in basic, science-backed habits. A preventive mindset Preventive health remains a growing priority in the region. In a recent Herbalife Asia-Pacific Responsible Supplementation Survey, 92 percent of respondents said prevention matters more than treatment. Experts note that prevention does not require drastic changes. Small, consistent habits such as balanced meals, portion awareness, regular movement, adequate sleep, hydration, and stress management form the foundation of long-term health. These everyday choices, they say, help the body stay resilient over time. Listening to the body Nutrition specialists emphasize that the body responds best when given what it needs, rather than what trends promote. A well-rounded diet includes lean protein, healthy carbohydrates, essential fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Together, these support energy levels,
Wellness experts emphasize sustainable habits over quick fixes as priorities shift in the new year
repair, and overall functioning. Hydration, gut health, and stress regulation also play key roles. Movement, meanwhile, should be sustainable and enjoyable. A 2019 World Health Organization report showed that 93.4 percent of Filipino adolescents were physically inactive, highlighting the need to make physical activity more accessible and realistic. Sleep and rest are equally important, supporting metabolism, hormonal balance, and recovery. Using supplements with purpose Supplement use is common across the region, but confidence in choosing the right products remains low. While 80 percent of survey respondents said they take supplements daily, many said they were unsure which ones suit their needs. Data from the 2023 National Nutrition Survey showed that Filipinos across age groups often fall short of recommended energy intake, with low consumption of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Health professionals advise using supplements to address specific gaps, not as replacements for meals. Consulting a doctor or registered nutritionist can help individuals select quality, evidence-based options that support daily functioning, energy, and immunity. Managing stress Stress continues to affect a large portion of the population. A Social Weather Stations survey found that 34 percent of Filipino adults experience stress frequently each day. Extended work hours, irregular eating, digital overload, and growing responsibilities contribute to prolonged stress, which can affect immune response, gut health, and hormonal balance. Experts recommend simple strategies such as regular breaks, meditation, consistent sleep routines, and seeking professional support when needed. Strong social connections also matter. Studies on so-called Blue Zones, areas linked to longevity, show that family ties and community support help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Everyday tools Technology can also support healthier routines. Apps and devices that track steps, sleep, meals, or hydration can provide structure and gentle reminders, helping people stay consistent amid busy schedules. As the year turns, health experts say the goal does not have to be a dramatic change. “Focus on the fundamentals, routines that fit your lifestyle, and regular checkups,” Sae-Lao said. “Health gains do not have to be loud to be lasting.”
Shaping true beauty
Belle Mariano on confidence, self-acceptance, and owning who you are
Celebrities join thousands of runners in Clark to support a charity race benefiting rural healthcare
Celebrities draw thousands to Clark half-marathon for rural health cause CELEBRITIES laced up their running shoes as thousands of fitness fans turned out for a charity half-marathon in Clark, Pampanga, blending star power with a push to support rural healthcare. The Five Star Half Marathon 2025 drew more than 4,000 registered runners to the CDC Parade Grounds on December 7, making it one of the biggest charity runs in the area this year. The event was led by Charoen Pokphand Foods Philippines Corporation through its Five Star Chicken brand. Now in its fifth year, the annual run showed sharp growth from last year, when more than 2,500 runners joined. Organizers said the expanding turnout reflected stronger public support for the advocacy behind the race. The event has also evolved, shifting from a purely corporate banner to the Five Star Half Marathon name to widen the reach of CPF’s consumer brands. Beyond the crowds and cameras, the run carried a clear mission. Organizers raised P8 million to support local healthcare services, with funds set to be divided between rural health units in Samal, Bataan, and Gerona, Tarlac. Each facility will receive P4 million. Adding celebrity buzz to the earlymorning run were Ivana Alawi and Golf Nattakorn Sujipittham, who led the charity effort alongside the Content Creators of the Philippines, headed by chemist Pinky Tobiano. Actor Jameson Blake also joined, along with influencers Perlas, Jeff Cabrera, Keisha Serna, and Daniel Sulud. CPF Philippines said the growing half-marathon has become a key part of its community initiatives, using sport Chemist Pinky Tobiano (left) and actress as a way to bring people together while Ivana Alawi are among the celebrities supporting public health programs in to support the charity run underserved areas.
“Makeup is a way for you to just make yourself feel like you’re totally you,” Belle said. Talee’s first offerings include a lip glaze and a cheek-and-lip tint, crafted with buildable formulas that allow for subtle, everyday looks or bold, glamorous finishes. Carefully curated in five shades, it caters to a variety of skin tones, while the lightweight, hydrating formulas allow for flexible application. “We made sure that if you want to go for a more muted or subtle look, it’s possible. But if you want it bolder and brighter, it can do that too,” Daniela explained. The Mariano sisters also focused on the skincare benefits of their line. The lip glaze, for instance, is infused with grape seed extract, sunflower oil, vitamin A, and collagen, ensuring long-lasting color Belle (left) launches her own cosmetic brand, without the dryness typical Talee, alongside sister Daniela of tints. Belle shared that she has used Talee products By Angelica Villanueva for red-carpet appearances and content shoots, proving that the items hold CONFIDENCE and self-acceptance up even under stage lights and sweat. shape how a person carries Belle and Daniela also emphasized themselves. Belle Mariano speaks that the creation of Talee was a handsabout embracing who you are as the on, meticulous process. From testing foundation of beauty, a belief that has formulas with makeup artist Jake guided her through the years. Galvez to hand-picking shades, “Confidence really is how you they were involved in every perceive yourself. It’s self-acceptance detail to ensure the products and how you carry yourself, and I are inclusive, buildable, and do believe that this product will help hydrating. us achieve that,” Belle told Manila “It took a long time to formulate Standard Life during the launch of the shades because we wanted it to Talee, the cosmetic brand she created work for everyone,” Daniela said. with her sister Daniela. The sisters also highlighted The inspiration for Talee comes the versatility and convenience of from their youngest sister, Natalia. The sisters wanted a brand that Belle Mariano says reflects their close bond and the idea beauty that starts that makeup should empower users to with how you see express themselves freely. yourself
their line. Each compact is portable and multi-use, suitable as a lip color, cheek tint, or eyeshadow. “We want you to see it as your sister that’s always there for you. And it really has a really good backstory because it was created by Daniela and me,” Belle shared. For them, Talee is a brand that aims to help its users feel confident, embrace their individuality, and express themselves fully. “We wanted to create something that’s flexible, convenient, and inclusive. It’s makeup that’s truly ‘Totally You,’” Daniela stated. Talee products are available on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and the brand’s official website.