Manila Standard - 2026 January 24 - Saturday

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MARCOS LAUNCHES NEW MERIT-BASED SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

By Charles Dantes

PBBM begins review of anti-dynasty bill

By Charles Dantes and Ram Superable

THE Marcos administration has started to review provisions for a proposed anti-dynasty bill, a key reform which the President last month said should be prioritized by Congress.

By Rolando Ng III

DEPARTMENT of Education

(DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara admitted that the agency's computer system at its central office "crashed" during this year's Computer-Based National Career Assessment Examination (CB-NCAE). In

“This is now being studied, and if a good framework can be developed regarding this, it can be suggested for the Anti-Dynasty Bill," Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said.

She said the provisions were discussed during the President’s meeting with Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and other officials at the Palace Tuesday.

By Katrina Manubay

By Vito Barcelo

Castro said no timeline has been set for the completion of the proposed framework, noting that discussions on the measure are still at an early stage.

The Senate, for its part, will start its hearing on anti-dynasty bills next week, Senator JV Ejercito said.

“Among the provisions discussed were the levels of the ban – the degree of familial relationships; the types of relationship considered whether consanguinity or affinity; the positions to be covered whether local, national or both; and the scope of the timing of prohibition whether it will be simultaneous or successive,” Castro said.

By Katrina Manubay and Rex Espiritu

TWO

By Vince Lopez

na, kung ako mapikon talagang dadagdagan ko na yan eh. (Soon, if I get pissed, 'I'll add to that),"

in Manila said Friday. In an update, the embassy said that as of 12:30 p.m., 17 of the 21 Filipino crew of the M/V Devon Bay had been rescued, including the fatalities. Search and rescue operations continued for the missing.

“Fourteen are in stable condition, two have been confirmed dead, and

one remains under emergency medical treatment,” it said.

“Rescue efforts are currently underway in full swing, and China’s maritime authorities are organizing additional rescue teams to rush to the accident site.” The vessel was en route from

DINAGYANG IN ILOILO. Catholic devotees join the fluvial parade and procession of the image of Santo Niño de Cebu at Muelle Loney, Iloilo City yesterday as part of the Feast of Sto. Niño and the 2026 Dinagyang Festival. Norman Cruz

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 24, 2026

US completes process of exiting from World Health Organization

THE United States said Thursday it has completed the process of withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO), accusing the agency of mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic, failing to carry out internal reforms and being susceptible to "political influence" from some member states.

In his inaugural address on Jan. 20 last year, President Donald Trump directed the United States to leave the U.N. health body, in line with a preelection pledge, as well as to exit the Paris climate agreement as it had previously done under his first administration.

The U.S. withdrawal, reflecting Trump's general skepticism of multilateralism, will likely have negative consequences for global efforts to prevent and control infectious diseases. For decades, the United States was the largest financial contributor to the WHO, a Geneva-based orga-

nization of more than 190 member states tasked with formulating a coherent global health policy.

U.S. researchers and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have played a central role in global efforts to counter infectious diseases.

However, the Trump administration said that within one year, it had stopped funding the WHO, withdrawn all U.S. officials and begun shifting activities previously conducted with the agency to "bilateral engagements" with other countries or institutions.

From now on, the United States

“A lot of senators are willing to attend. I am supporting it. I filed a bill even if I am part of a dynasty [and] benefitted politically. Hopefully with the anti-political dynasty, we give chance to others. No one has the right to monopolize power,” Ejercito said.

Senator Panfilo Lacson, who is chairman of the committee on electoral reforms, will lead the hearings.

Other senators who have filed similar bills include Risa Hontiveros, Bam Aquino, Kiko Pangilinan and Robin Padilla.

At the House of Representatives, Speaker Bojie Dy and presidential son and Majority Leader Sandro Marcos have filed an anti-dynasty bill. Other proposals came from lawmakers belonging to the Makabayan bloc and Mamamayang Liberal Rep. Leila de Lima, among others.

The 1987 Constitution specifically prohibits political dynasties under Article 12, Section 26, but no enabling law has been passed to enforce this.

Since 1993, several anti-dynasty measures have been introduced and refiled over and over again, but none have gone beyond plenary deliberations.

The first one filed, based on available Congress records, was that of Southern Leyte Rep. Roger Mercardo.

In 2014, the House version of the anti-dynasty bill reached plenary deliberations in an unprecedented move, but did not advance further.

In August, Commission on Elections Chairperson George Garcia said an acceptable anti-political dynasty law should prohibit family members of incumbent officials up to the second degree of consanguinity from seeking public office, which would include siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

“For the Comelec, the second degree of consanguinity is the more practical and reasonable option in order not to deprive others of the opportunity to run for public office,” he said.

A report by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism in May – released just before the midterm polls – said more than half of the members of the House of Representatives are part of political families.

PCIJ data showed 216 out of 253 district representatives in the 19th Congress belong to political families, while 36 out of 54 party-lists have at least one nominee belonging to a political clan.

In local politics, PCIJ said 71 out of 82 governors and 113 out of 149 city mayors belong to political clans.

A Pulse Asia survey released in end-December showed 5 in 10 Filipinos (54 percent) agree that Congress should immediately pass a law banning political dynasties.

The sentiment was highest in Metro Manila (69 percent), followed by the rest of Luzon (59 percent), Visayas (59 percent), and Mindanao (34 percent).

2 Pinoy...

From A1

the Philippines to Yangjiang, China when it encountered trouble around 8:30 p.m. Thursday.

China's Southern Theater Command said the ship "lost contact approximately 55 nautical miles northwest of Huangyan Island", using Beijing's name for the disputed Scarborough Shoal.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) placed the vessel’s last known position 141 nautical miles west of Sabangan Point, Pangasinan, within the country’s exclusive economic zone.

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army launched a joint rescue operation, while China Coast Guard vessels were first on scene and rescued several crew members, according to both Chinese and Philippine authorities.

The PCG, however, said it has yet to confirm the reported fatalities. As of 2:25 p.m. Friday, four crew members remained missing.

“The PCG Command Center received confirmation from the K-Line Roro Bulk Ship Management Co., Ltd. that 17 individuals were rescued by the CCG, while four crew members remain missing,” the PCG said.

The PCG said the vessel had already developed a dangerous list when it sent out a distress call. “The PCG received a distress report that the vessel was already listing at approximately 25 degrees,” it said.

PCG vessels BRP Teresa Magbanua and BRP Cape San Agustin, along with two aircraft, were deployed to assist in the search and rescue.

The PCG emphasized that while the incident occurred within the Philippine EEZ, all vessels may pass under freedom of navigation as provided by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, though this “does not allow law enforcement patrols by foreign vessels.”

The incident occurred near the fish-rich Scarborough Shoal, a longstanding flashpoint between the Philippines and China, which both claim the area and surrounding waters.

will be cooperating with the WHO "solely in a limited fashion to effectuate our withdrawal," the administration said.

"Like many international organizations, the WHO abandoned its core mission and acted repeatedly against the interests of the United States," said a joint statement by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

"Although the United States was a founding member and the WHO's largest financial contributor, the organization pursued a politicized, bureaucratic agenda driven by nations hostile to American interests," it added.

A WHO withdrawal requires a one-year prior notification, which the United States made on Jan. 22, 2025, and payment of outstanding fees.

Established in 1948, the WHO has no provision that allows for withdrawal. The United States is an

Marcos...

From A1

President said the initiatives fulfill a commitment he made during his 2025 State of the Nation Address to support outstanding senior high school and technical-vocational graduates.

The program will be launched in school year 2026-2027.

The younger Marcos led the launch of the PBBM-GABAY ng Bayan Programs at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena.

“Inclusive education must be measurable, concrete, and sustained commitments to bring opportunities and hope closer to our learners and every family,” the President said.

“The annual gross income of the families of qualified applicants should not be more than P2 million,” he added.

Central to the rollout is the Bagong Pilipinas Merit-Based Scholarship Program (BPMSP), to be implemented in partnership with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Department of Education, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

Under the program, the top five graduates of every senior high school nationwide, from both public and private institutions, will be eligible for scholarships to pursue undergraduate degrees or technical-vocational diploma programs at high-performing institutions.

Courses will be aligned with national priority and hard-to-fill sectors identified as critical to economic growth and development.

Each scholar will receive a P50,000stipend yearly if enrolled in Metro Manila and residing outside the NCR. Those enrolled outside the metropolis

Jonvic...

From A1

the interior secretary said in an interview with GMA.

Remulla also said that whistleblower, Julie Dondon Patidongan, said that Ang may already have exited the country via backdoor to Cambodia.

"The BI has no record of him exiting through any of our ports. So if that happened, he might have gone

Angara...

From A1

Angara told Manila Standard in mixed Filipino and English.

Several teachers previously experienced difficulties in navigating the computer system used by CBNCAE, which caters to about 2 million Grade 10 students.

Some public schools have experienced technical difficulties due to

and individuals who perform domestic work only occasionally or sporadically and not on an occupational basis, the commission said.

The NWPC said the wage hike aims to help improve the living conditions of do-

exception, however, having agreed with the WHO at its founding that the country's exit would be permitted upon prior notification and payment of dues.

According to the agency, the United States has not yet paid its 2024 and 2025 fees, totaling around $260 million.

At its executive board meeting in February and other gatherings, the WHO plans to discuss how to address the validity of the U.S. withdrawal without the required payment.

In 2020, during Trump's first term, the United States notified the United Nations of its intention to exit the WHO, criticizing the organization for what his administration called its China-centric positions in the fight against the pandemic.

But the administration of President Joe Biden, which took office the following year, invalidated the process of pulling the United States out of the WHO. Kyodo News

will receive a stipend of P30,000 annually. They will receive P8,060 per academic year for books and connectivity.

The program guidelines regarding return of service will be announced once released by CHED. President Marcos said the government formalized the program through the signing of its policies and guidelines to ensure transparency and integrity in its implementation.

The President also announced Project Patuloy na Edukasyon, Patuloy na Pag-Ahon (Project PEPA), a nationwide information caravan aimed at improving access to education-related information, particularly for low-income families.

Project PEPA is expected to reach about 490,000 senior high school graduates from households enrolled in the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, bringing information on governmentfunded education opportunities directly to students and their families.

“Access often begins with information,” Mr. Marcos said, adding that informed families are better positioned to plan their children’s educational pathways.

Another initiative introduced was CHED-TANAW, a national higher education data visualization platform developed by the Commission on Higher Education.

The system provides integrated data on higher education institutions, enrollment, scholarships, and graduate outcomes, and features interactive maps to guide students toward legitimate and recognized institutions nationwide.

The President also congratulated the newly promoted teachers who took their oaths under the Expanded Career Progression system, underscoring the role of educators in sustaining reforms across the education sector.

through the backdoor," he said.

On Thursday, Remulla told reporters that Ang has an e-sabong outfit in Cambodia.

"Now we are in contact with the police authorities there, our PNP is coordinating to get more solid information but repatriating him is probably more effective, we will wait for the President to talk to his counterpart in Cambodia so they can talk to him so he can be brought back here immediately if he is there," Remulla said.

incompatibility with system requirements, outdated hardware, or poor internet connectivity.

"Going forward, we may need to coordinate schedules with the private schools," Angara said, adding that public high schools are currently following a "regimented" schedule.

The DepEd earlier assured that its response team is working with the division and regional coordinators to promptly address any concerns on its implementation.

mestic workers amid the continued rise in the prices of basic goods and services.

The commission urged employers to comply with the new wage order to ensure fair and just compensation for domestic workers.

House won’t block impeach bid — Sandro

By Maricel V. Cruz

HOUSE Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander A. Marcos of Ilocos Norte yesterday said the House of Representatives will properly act on any impeachment complaint filed against the President or any other impeachable official.

Marcos said the House is dutybound under the Constitution to act on any impeachment complaint once it is formally filed with the Office of the House Secretary General and transmitted to the Office of the Speaker.

The Speaker will then refer the matter to the Committee on Rules for inclusion in the Order of Business and referral to the Committee on Justice.

Marcos stressed that the House must hear and consider any impeachment complaint, even if it involves his own father.

He emphasized that impeachment is a constitutional process governed by rules and due process, and that the House is expected to act without prejudice and in accordance with established procedures.

China...

From A1

Foreign Ministry’s Department of Asian Affairs summoned FlorCruz over what it called Tarriela’s “inflammatory, confrontational, misleading and baseless remarks against China.”

“It must be stressed that the Philippine side has long turned a blind eye to its Coast Guard ‘spokesperson’ making inflammatory, confrontational, misleading and baseless remarks against China on maritime issues. China does not accept that,” the statement read.

Tarriela rejected the accusations on Friday, saying his statements were factual and supported by evidence.

“Threatening a public servant for telling the truth will not intimidate us,” he said. “It only proves that transparency is working—and that China fears an informed world more than it fears international law.”

“Transparency in the West Philippine Sea is not provocation. It is merely exposing the bully aggressor and the real victim,” the PCG spokesperson added.

He called on China to respect the 2016 arbitral ruling won by the Philippines, withdraw from what he described as illegally occupied reclaimed islands, and end the harassment of Filipino fishermen.

China, however, urged the Philippines to address what it said were the negative effects of the remarks and to avoid actions that could harm bilateral relations.

“Time for the Philippine side to undo the negative impact as soon as possible and stop tolerating the smear campaign and provocations, lest they disrupt normal diplomatic communication or further harm bilateral relations,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said.

The protest followed Tarriela’s social media post that included cartoon-style images of Chinese leader Xi, which Beijing said “attacked and smeared Chinese leaders” and constituted a “blatant political provocation” that “crossed the red line.”

The embassy said it had filed a diplomatic protest over the post and expressed “strong indignation” to Philippine authorities.

In China and within Chinese diplomatic circles, cartoonish images or caricatures of Xi are censored because they are viewed as a serious violation of political dignity and an act of symbolic dissent. Direct criticism of the government can lead to arrest in China.

The Chinese Communist Party also views satirical comparisons—such as famous memes starting in 2013 comparing Xi to Winnie the Pooh—as deliberate attempts to erode respect for the presidency, which have also evolved into a symbol of resistance to China.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) earlier expressed support for government officials and institutions “lawfully defending the nation’s sovereignty” in the West Philippine Sea, reiterating that disputes should be addressed through established diplomatic channels.

Trillanes poised to file ethics rap vs. Dela Rosa

By Pot Chavez

FORMER Senator Antonio Trillanes

IV on Friday said they will file an ethics complaint against Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa over his nonattendance from Senate sessions over the past months.

“We will be filing an ethics case against him because the government keeps spending for his (Senate) despite his unexplained absences,” Trillanes said on national television.

Trillanes said they are giving Dela Rosa time in case he changes his mind.

Dela Rosa’s lawyer on Friday said he has no opportunity to directly communicate to his client.

“We do not have a chance to talk to Senator Bato, only through his wife, the counsel said.

Lawyer Israelito Torreon refused to confirm if the senator is still in the country.

Meanwhile, he expressed confidence that the public understands the current situation of his client.

“He is in a unique situation simply because of the fact that there was already very good example as to what happened to former President Rodrigo Duterte,” Torreon pointed out.

“Even if we hold an election now and conduct a referendum, I think the people of the Republic of the Philippines, a great majority understand his situation,” he added.

Dela Rosa has been absent from public view since last November amid reports of an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him.

Earlier this week, he resurfaced on social media with a message marking his 64th birthday.

DOE: Oil price hikes next week

By Alena Mae S. Flores

JANUARY will likely close with another wave of oil price hike, the Department of Energy (DOE) said Friday.

Based on the four-day trade monitoring in the Means of Platts Singapore, DOE Oil Industry Management Bureau

assistant director Rodela Romero said gasoline prices were expected to decrease by P0.05 per liter, while diesel and kerosene would go up by P0.80 and

P0.45 per liter, respectively.

Romero said the costs of operating companies and other premiums were not yet included in the numbers, which she previously explained cost around P0.40 to P0.50. They also have not reflected the adjust-

Book advises long-term policies to meet realities

A NEW book by a think tank group advises that the Philippines must “abandon election-cycle thinking and adopt a long-term strategic approach to resilience, sovereignty, and national development.”

Citing rising security risks in the Indo-Pacific region while economic and governance pressures mount at the home front, the new policy book commissioned by the Stratbase Group stated “the Philippines can no longer afford to govern from one political cycle to the next as global uncertainty deepens and regional tensions intensify.”

The book, titled “Politika Beyond 2028,” laid out a strategic roadmap aimed at strengthening national resilience, safeguarding sovereignty, and guiding policy-making beyond electoral timelines, as the country confronts economic

shocks, governance challenges, and mounting security risks in the Indo-Pacific.

“The Philippines can no longer afford shortterm thinking,” Stratbase founder and chief executive Victor Andres Manhit said.

“In a world shaped by economic volatility, geopolitical tension, and security threats, we need resilience, good governance, and strategic clarity,” he added.

Organized around themes of resilient growth, inclusive governance, and geostrategic thinking, Politika Beyond 2028 examines how economic vulnerability, weak institutions, and external pressures intersect to threaten national stability. It argues that economic strength and governance reform must advance together if

By Ram Superable

ments on the last trading day on Friday.

Meanwhile, Leo Bellas, president of Jetti Petroleum, said the estimate was based on price movement indications for the week of Jan. 26, 2026. Apart from the Mean of Platts Singapore, the forecast was also based on foreign exchange averages for the first four days of this week versus last week’s fullweek average, he said.

Romero explained that the looming price increases were due to US President Donald Trump’s tariff threats on Europe over their opposition to a US takeover of Greenland.

BOOK LAUNCH. Think tank Stratbase Group launches its new book titled ‘Politika Beyond 2028’ which essentially advises Philippine policy-makers to drop their shortterm political mindset amid rising security risks in the IndoPacific region and mounting economic and governance pressures at the home front.

the country is to remain competitive and secure.

“Economic security and good governance are inseparable,” Manhit said.

“Resilient growth requires accountable institutions, transparent leadership, and policies that protect public trust while creating real opportunities for Filipinos,” he added.

The book also highlights the Philippines’ strategic location in the Indo-Pacific, warning that escalating regional tensions—particularly in the West Philippine Sea—underscore the need for clearer geostrategic direction and stronger cooperation with like-minded partners.

“Geostrategic thinking is critical in navigating the rising tensions and external pressures,” Manhit Noted.

Trump has backed down on threats to seize the Arctic island by force from ally Denmark and retracted his tariff threat.

But Romero said the price hikes were not likely to be reversed by the recent development, while gasoline instead has a high chance of being pulled up to an increase.

The geopolitical tensions between war-conflicted countries also pull the prices up, she said.

Romero added that China was seeing an improving demand following the growth in its gross domestic product. With AFP

IN BRIEF

Baste Duterte takes oath as Davao City mayor

ACTING Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte on Friday formally assumed the post as the city’s chief executive while his nephew, Rodrigo Duterte II, took his oath as vice mayor of Mindanao’s premier city.

Both were sworn in at the city hall by Judge Marie Estrellita Tolentino-Rojas, deputy executive judge of the Davao City Regional Trial Court.

Sebastian was elected vice mayor in the May 12, 2025 polls while his father, ex-President Rodrigo Duterte was voted in as mayor, but failed to serve his tenure following his arrest and detention at The Hague on orders of the International Criminal Court for alleged crime against humanity.

Rodrigo II was also elected as city councilor in the same political exercise, but served as acting vice mayor to his uncle. Cherrie Anne Villahermosa

QC mayor cites firm on job offers for locals

QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte has lauded the effort of Joyride Philippines, a ride-hailing company to provide decent and safe employment for city residents, also called QCitizens ,during the opening of a three-day onboarding event of the firm at the Quezon Memorial Circle.

“First and foremost, I would like to clarify for the record that I am not the owner of JoyRide. I have no shares here,” Belmonte pointed out in apparent reference to the company’s use of her first name.

“Our work must be clean and decent work. Our income must come from honest sources. We condemn all forms of corruption in Quezon City,” she stressed. She said Quezon City has 3.3 million residents, citing most workers in various parts of Metro Manila are city residents who must go to their places of work safely, and come home in like fashion at the end of the day. Rio N. Araja

Four soldiers killed in Lanao ambush

FOUR Army soldiers died and another was wounded in an ambush carried out by suspected Dawlah Islamiyah–Maute Group (DI-MG) in Munai, Lanao del Norte yesterday morning.

Initial reports said the soldiers were aboard a blue Toyota Avanza when they were fired upon by armed men believed to be members of the DI-MG in Purok 1, Barangay Liningding around 10 a.m.

The troops were conducting a community support program in the area when they were ambushed.

Army Chief LtGen. Antonio Nafarrete described the attack on the members of the Task Unit Tabang under the Joint Task Force (JTF) Zampelan of the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division (1ID) as “heinous and cowardly.”

The identities of the victims, all enlisted personnel, were not immediately disclosed pending notice to their families. Rex Espiritu

SYMBIOTIC CO-EXISTENCE. A farmer goes about his routine chore in Mabitac, Laguna, unmindful of a flock of migratory egrets surrounding him, and vice versa. Revoli Cortez

New PUV franchise policy eyed

By Rio N. Araja

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board is crafting a new policy that will prohibit the renewal of franchises of dilapidated public utility vehicles (PUVs) nationwide, its chairperson Vigor Mendoza II said.

Mendoza said the proposed measure aims to improve the country’s public transport system and ensure safe, reliable, and comfortable service for commuters.

Mendoza recalled riding a passenger jeepney in the Visayas where there was “a big hole in the middle of the passenger platform.”

He also cited the poor condition of several jeepneys in the National Capital Region, noting torn and dirty seats and improper attire worn by some drivers.

substandard transport services and must be treated with respect.

The LTFRB, Mendoza said, is embarking on aggressive reform programs starting with stricter inspection and monitoring of PUVs nationwide, including jeepneys, taxis, and passenger buses.

IN BRIEF

Repair Navotas Coastal Dike or else—DPWH

PUBLIC Works Secretary Vince Dizon has given Manfel Cargo Shipping Corp. until February to complete repairs on the damaged Navotas Coastal Dike, warning that failure to comply will result in multiple legal cases.

Dizon said the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will issue a demand letter requiring Manfel to fully repair more than a 50-meter portion of the dike that was damaged after being struck by one of the company’s vessels last year.

“It is their responsibility. They caused the damage, so they must fix it,” Dizon said.

The Navotas Coastal Dike serves as a key flood-control structure protecting low-lying communities from storm surges and flooding.

The DPWH said it will closely monitor the project to ensure the repairs meet safety and quality standards and are not substandard.

Vito Barcelo

Mayon affected families to get cash-for-work

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will provide cash-for-work assistance to more than 1,300 families affected by the continuing unrest of Mayon Volcano, in addition to ongoing food and non-food relief operations.

“We will adopt a new confirmation process. We will not confirm a franchise if the vehicle is dilapidated,” Mendoza said.

‘Zero tolerance’ for foreigners abusing Filipino hospitality DILG

By Vince Lopez

DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor ‘Jonvic’ Remulla warned incoming foreign nationals against abusing the Philippines’ hospitality on Thursday, emphasizing that strict laws shall be enforced upon visitors who disrespect the country and its people.

“Again, we love tourists. Tourism is a big part of our economy. But if these foreigners make us look like fools, we will not back down,” Remulla said in a press conference.

“We will give them the full weight of the law, so they will feel that if the Philippines is good when you look around, they will be better off when they are in prison,” he said sarcastically.

The statement came amid the recent arrests of two foreign vloggers, who went viral on social media for content widely criticized as mocking and disrespectful. One of whom even threatened to spread an infectious disease.

Nikita Chekhov, who went on social media claiming his intent to spread human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), was arrested by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Fugitive Search Unit inside a condominium building in Quezon City.

He said the LTFRB would aggressively push transport reforms amid mounting complaints from commuters and based on his own experience using public transport.

“I am talking about the modern jeepneys. I don’t even want to discuss the traditional jeepneys, and let me not get started with the taxis,” he said.

In some cases, Mendoza said drivers were wearing sandos, shorts, and slippers while operating public transport

“We in the LTFRB are tasked by law to regulate public transport in the country, ensure road worthiness, guarantee that only competent and well-trained drivers are behind the wheels of PUVs, ensure passenger safety, the efficiency of the transport system, and the comfort and convenience of the riding public,”

DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, spokesperson of the Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG), said 1,323 affected families—mostly farmers and fisherfolk whose livelihoods were disrupted— will benefit from the program.

“When we went to Albay a few weeks back with Secretary Rex Gatchalian, we ensured that we would provide additional interventions apart from the usual food and non-food items that we have distributed,” Dumlao said.

“We will be providing financial assistance by adapting the cash-forwork modality. We hope to be able to start this before the end of January.” Maricel Cruz

US-based Filipinos told: Prepare for snowstorm

THE Philippine Embassy in Washington and the Philippine Consulate General in New York on Thursday have advised Filipino communities to take necessary precautions and heed warnings from local authorities as a snowstorm approaches. In an advisory, the embassy cautioned that the storm could bring heavy snowfall, hazardous travel conditions, and extreme cold over the weekend.

“The safety of Filipino nationals is the Embassy’s priority. Please monitor local weather updates, prepare for cold temperatures, and limit travel during the storm,” the advisory read.

The embassy and consulate also urged Filipinos to contact them for assistance in emergencies. Katrina Manubay

SC launches updated codes on judicial conduct, accountability

By Pot Chavez

THE Supreme Court (SC) on Friday announced the launch of the 2025 Code of Judicial Conduct and Accountability (CJCA) and the 2025 Code of Conduct and Accountability for Court Officials and Personnel (CCACOP).

With the launch, the High Court reaf-

firmed its commitment to ethical conduct, transparency, and accountability in the judiciary.

The launch followed a special en banc session on Wednesday, during which justices, judges, and court officials took their oath of office using the newly re vised oaths. The event marked the comple

DBP boosts cancer care with donation

STATE-OWNED Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) is stepping up efforts to bolster the country’s healthcare system through the donation of a device designed to provide radiation oncology services for cancer treatment to the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI), a top official said.

DBP President and Chief Executive Officer Michael O. de Jesus said that the donation of a Linear Accelerator (LINAC) machine will allow the institute to resume its operations of radiation therapy services which were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The donation to NKTI strengthens the Bank’s commitment to supporting the government’s healthcare program that benefits the marginalized and underserved communities. It

is an initiative that will truly serve the Filipino people,” De Jesus said.

DBP is the 9th largest bank in the country in terms of assets and provides credit support to four priority sectors of the economy – infrastructure and logistics; micro, small and medium enterprises; the environment; and social services and community development.

The National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) is a tertiary medical center established in 1981 and dedicated to providing comprehensive patient care and the prevention and treatment of renal and other allied diseases.

De Jesus said that the donation of LINAC machine is a boon to public health care services of NKTI especially to those from the marginalized and underserved sectors of the population.

tion of the Court’s three-pronged integrity initiative under the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022–2027.

In 2023, the judiciary introduced the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability for members of the

vides clearer and more responsive guidance on the core principles of judicial conduct, including independence, impartiality, propriety, equality, competence, diligence, and accountability.

dressing the demands and realities of

DONATION. Shown in photo during the turnover of the LINAC machine donation to NKTI are Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa (fifth from right), DBP President and CEO Michael de Jesus (seventh from left), DBP Chairman Philip Lo (sixth from left) and NKTI

Dante P. Dator (fifth from left).

photo are

Tronco, (second from left),

Manager Romil Joseph N. Sinocruz (third from left) and DBP Manager Maryknell R. Porcioncula (left) along with other officials of NKTI.

SUPPLIES. Workers deliver sacks of imported rice to retailers in Tondo, Manila on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. The Department of Agriculture is considering an initial importation of 300,000 metric tons of rice in February as part of

Yancy Lim

OPINION

Importance of translating PH regional literatures

IN LESS than 11 months, the cohesive group of Ilokano writers in Metro Manila will mark its 60th anniversary, properly its diamond jubilee, with members challenged to come up with a balanced theme that respects the organization’s history while looking ahead to new summons and opportunities.

We are fully aware the members have rolled up their shirt sleeves as it were as the December date approaches, their strategic planning sessions revealing current initiatives which include inter-generational events for both old and new members.

We know members of the group, called GUMIL Metro Manila, write in the language of their birth Ilokano, and are arguably nimble in Filipino and English.

This is where we raise the challenge for translation of regional literature for wider dissemination and appreciation by scholars and other language specialists to better understand the culture, the heritage of the “regional writers” or those who write in their own language.

Having been involved in the Committee on Literary Arts of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as well as the Ilokano writers group since the 80s, we posit the need for translation, while GUMIL Metro Manila marks this year a long journey of not just sipping steaming coffee and whatever else – if basi is not available – but writing their fiction or nonfiction masterpieces when not bothered by company deadline.

We posit that translating – not killing – regional languages written in the vernacular into English is crucial for breaking down communication barriers, preserving cultural heritage, and facilitating global understanding.

As a widely used global language, English acts as a bridge that allows localized stories, knowledge, and perspectives to reach a wider audience.

Why is translation of vernacular literature important?

Scholars and language experts have a common denominator: their persuasion that vernacular literature, folk tales, and local oral traditions contain rich cultural wisdom that could be lost to future generations if not documented and translated.

Translating these works, their argument which we as well endorse, ensures their survival and promotes a deeper appreciation of diverse cultural identities.

An irrebuttable presumption that translation empowers the marginalized voices, enriches their language and facilitates global exchange and understanding.

Instance, translation provides a platform for voices from marginalized or underrepresented groups – like tribal communities, women, and minorities –to make their stories and issues heard on a global stage, fighting against historical prejudices.

Sans doubt, translating regional works introduces new metaphors, idioms, and narrative techniques into the English language, enriching its literature and allowing for the cross-pollination of ideas, according to some scholars.

Others argue that in a globalized world, translating vernacular content enables cross-cultural communication and fosters empathy and understanding, allowing people from different backgrounds to connect with the “other” and challenge stereotypes.

—“—

EDITORIAL

Wake-up call on plastic waste

HARDLY seen by the Filipino masses in their daily lives is the continuing threat of microplastics and plastics, with a staggering 2.3 million tons of plastic waste generated in the country annually.

By World Bank estimates, the Philippines uses an overwhelming 163 million pieces of sachets per day and, sadly, only 28 percent of key plastic resins are being recycled while the rest are simply discarded.

the National Plastic Action Partnership which gathers government, private sector, and civil society to accelerate the transition to a circular economy.

The Philippines is also testing advanced recycling, like using nuclear technology to enhance the strength of recycled plastics for use in construction.

We note that there have been times when some central offices in Manila wanted their pamphlets translated into the regional languages – these are being distributed in the regions – for easier, if faster, connection with the people in the area.

That is the contrasting part of translation, where translators must have a good grip of the original language as well as the language the former would have to be translated into for smooth comprehension.

It has been said that translating educational materials, government schemes, and, in some cases, business content into regional languages (or vice-versa) is essential for ensuring that information reaches all segments of society, promoting equal access to knowledge and economic growth.

In a multilingual context, like the Philippines where there are at least 12 major regional languages spoken as native tongues by the majority – with Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilokano, Hiligaynon, Bikol, Waray, Kapampangan, and Pangasinense being the primary eight.

Overall, over 180 distinct native languages and dialects are spoken across the archipelago of 117 million.

Translating into English allows for broader access to these local perspectives, including in arts and entertainment, according to some scholars.

By translating vernacular texts into English, these distinctive expressions of culture can move beyond regional, and often colonial, boundaries to become part of the global intellectual and artistic landscape.

No room for intimidation: PH sovereignty, truth stand firm

By Jose Antonio Goitia

THE maritime seasape of the West Philippine Sea has become a theater for a struggle far more significant than a mere territorial dispute.

It is now a battleground between the clarity of documented truth and the shadow of coercion.

The recent friction between the Philippine Coast Guard, represented by Commodore Jay Tarriela, and the Chinese Embassy in Manila is a pivotal moment that tests our national resolve.

Facts Are Not Provocation

The Chinese Embassy’s attempts to frame the Philippine Coast Guard’s transparency efforts as “provocation” are fundamentally flawed.

What the PCG presents to the world— the videos of water cannon usage, the photos of dangerous maneuvers, and the logs of swarming—are records, not rhetoric.

Facts do not become hostile simply because they are inconvenient to a foreign power’s narrative.

When Commodore Tarriela speaks, he is not speculating; he is providing the global community with an unfiltered view of the reality at sea. To label the truth as “incitement” is a

classic tactic of those who find the light of public scrutiny blinding.

Transparency Is an Institutional Mandate

It is a mistake for any foreign entity to view these statements as the personal whims of a single spokesperson.

By translating vernacular texts into English, these distinctive expressions of culture can move beyond regional, and often colonial, boundaries —“— What the PCG presents to the world—the videos of water cannon usage, the photos of dangerous maneuvers, and the logs of swarming—are records, not rhetoric

Transparency is a deliberate, coordinated policy of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration.

It is a strategic shift intended to ensure that the Filipino people and the international community understand the real situation—unvarnished and grounded in

The question stands up: Where does the remaining 72 percent of these plastics go? To find it, people need not go to the nearest scrap shop but simply open their refrigerators.

In recent years the National Research Council of the Philippines raised the call to increase awareness in the growing threat of microplastics and plastics on food security, environment, and health by featuring NRCPfunded Projects on plastics in the marine environment and microplastic contamination among marine species.

The population can take some balm from what authorities say is significant hope for the Philippines to combat plastic and microplastic pollution, driven by recent landmark legislation, strong community action, and growing corporate accountability.

While the Philippines is currently one of the top contributors to marine plastic pollution, it has taken forceful steps to reverse this trend with a goal of “Zero Waste to Philippine Waters by 2040.”

The primary, legally binding roadmap is the Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022, which mandates large companies to take responsibility for their plastic waste. In the short term (2024–2026). companies must recover 40 percent of their 2023 plastic footprint by the end of 2024, rising to 50 percent by end2025 and 60 percent by end-2026.

The battle against plastic waste is tough

By 2028, enterprises must recover 80 percent of their plastic packaging footprint. In the long-term (2030–2040), initiatives will aim to stop the flow of plastic into nature by 2030, with a broader goal of achieving a circular economy by 2040. Authorities say with the EPR Act, people can hope since the law forces large firms to “recover” plastics, which has led to 917 companies registering their programs as of May 2024, exceeding the initial 20 percent recovery target for 2023. Authorities also launched in 2025

There are of course challenges, which underline the truth that the battle against plastic waste is tough. They include the “Sachet Economy” which is a heavy reliance on single-use, low-value plastic packets (“tingi” culture) and makes collection and recycling challenging; the Infrastructure Deficits, which point to a need for better segregation, collection, and recycling infrastructure, especially at the Local Government Unit level; and the Microplastics Presence, where studies have confirmed microplastics in local fish, sediments, and water, requiring longterm environmental remediation. With government and private sector efforts on the same gear, the Philippines is likely to see significant improvements in plastic management by 2028 (through mandatory corporate recovery) and a circular economy by 2040.

Of course success depends on the strict enforcement of the EPR law, improved local waste management, and reducing single-use plastic production at the source. This is not a drill.

Trump’s MAGA movement ramps up attacks on ‘progressive white women’

WASHINGTON, DC – Progressive white women have been persistent punching bags of President Donald Trump’s MAGA movement, but attacks targeting the demographic group have become particularly vicious in recent weeks.

The death of Renee Good, a 37-year-old American woman killed by a federal agent while protesting Trump’s immigration crackdown in Minnesota, has prompted harsh comments against her by numerous conservative commentators.

Radio host Erick Erickson coined an acronym to describe Good — “AWFUL,” or Affluent White Female Urban Liberal.

“White liberal women are a cancer on the nation. They have no real problems, so they’re bored” and take on other people’s fights, right-wing comedian Vincent Oshana wrote on X. just want to feel important.”

Columnist David Marcus meanwhile derisively referred to women activists, like Good, protesting against Trump’s immigration actions as “organized gangs of wine moms.” Women’s suffrage a ‘tragedy’

The attacks come amid a dual offensive on the American right — against modern feminism and placing renewed value on masculinity.

Some right-wing players, particularly Christian nationalists, have for years called for a rethink of the role of women in modern society, even demanding the end of the constitutional right to vote.

The 19th Amendment to the US Constitution “has been a moral and political tragedy for America,” firebrand pastor

evidence.

To demand silence from one official is to ignore the entire state policy behind him. This is not an individual’s position; it is the official stance of the Republic of the Philippines. We have moved past the era of quiet concessions; we are now in the era of documented assertion. Threats Are Not Diplomacy

We have witnessed a worrying escalation in Beijing’s tone, moving from diplomatic “reminders” to direct threats from its Foreign Ministry.

The declaration that Philippine officials must “stop provocations or pay the price” is a departure from the norms of international relations. This is not diplomacy—it is coercion, broadcast on a global stage. Such rhetoric reveals not strength, but a deep-seated anxiety toward accountability. When a state abandons restraint and resorts to threats, it betrays a fear of the truth.

These tactics have no place in a world governed by the rule of law. Intimidation cannot erase the 2016 Arbitral Award,

Dale Partridge said in a video last month.

“Why? Women were not made to lead, but to follow and to feel.”

Juliet Williams, a gender studies professor at University of California Los Angeles, said such comments are typical of a patriarchal worldview that requires men to “understand themselves as inherently superior.”

The attacks come amid a dual offensive on the American right -- against modern feminism and placing renewed value on masculinity

Trump’s administration has meanwhile sought to portray a masculine persona -typified by Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth, who frequently posts videos doing pushups with soldiers.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently praised Trump’s testosterone levels, saying that another official called them “the highest” he has seen for someone over 70. In this ideology, Williams said, “hatred of white liberal women is really necessary” because they challenge the ideals of the Christian right.

nor can it diminish the Philippines’ legal right to its Exclusive Economic Zone. The Proper Forum Is the State

The defense of our sovereignty must remain institutional. Senator Risa Hontiveros was correct to call upon the Department of Foreign Affairs to address this aggressive conduct.

Under the Vienna Convention, foreign missions have obligations to respect the laws and regulations of the receiving State.

States must speak to states. Our public servants, who are merely performing their lawful duties, should never be targeted or personally threatened by foreign governments. When our officials are intimidated, it is the Philippine State itself that is being challenged.

Institutions Must Stand

The Philippine Coast Guard has acted strictly within its mandate. Commodore Tarriela has spoken with the authority of a nation that refuses to be bullied. Now, the state must continue to provide a shield for its institutions and those who serve with integrity.

Women in general favored the Democratic candidate in the 2016, 2020, and 2024 presidential elections — but majorities of white women actually voted for Trump, according to Pew Research polling.

Several studies suggest a growing divergence among younger voters.

Gen Z women largely identify as progressive, while young men — an important demographic in Trump’s latest victory -- increasingly lean right. Williams said attacks on women Democratic voters could be aimed at influencing young women who “are more aware than ever of how closely their social value is indexed on looking a certain way.”

‘Just hotter’

The women who gravitate around Trump’s White House usually wear stylish clothes, high heels, have long wavy hair, and wear heavy makeup. Botox and filler are not rare.

Katie Miller — a podcaster and wife of Stephen Miller, one of the US president’s most influential advisers — openly mocks what she considers to be the unattractive and unkempt appearance of left-wing women.

“Conservative women are just hotter than Liberal women,” she wrote on X, claiming that was the reason conservative families have more children.

The Millers recently announced they are expecting their fourth child, as did Vice President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt is also pregnant with her second child. AFP

Our republic endures not by fleeing from the truth, but by standing firmly for it. The DFA’s affirmation of support for our officials is a necessary step in showing a united front.

This resolve is echoed by the Filipino people, who understand that our national dignity is tied to our ability to tell our own story without fear. The message to the world is clear: transparency is a mark of strength, not defiance.

True diplomacy demands honesty, not silence. The Philippines will never yield its rights, its truth, or its sovereign duty in the face of intimidation—whether in our own waters or before the international community. We stand on the side of the law, and the law does not blink.

(The writer, who holds Juris Doctor and PhD degrees, is the 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 also holds multiple advanced degrees: MNSA, MPA, and MBA).

Honor Blanco Cabie

US ‘armada’ headed toward Gulf

WASHINGTON, DC – President Donald Trump said a US “armada” was heading toward the Gulf and that Washington was watching Iran closely, even after downplaying the prospect of imminent military action and saying Tehran appeared interested in talks.

Trump has repeatedly left open the option of new military action against Iran after Washington backed and joined Israel’s 12-day war in June aimed at degrading Iranian nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

The prospect of immediate American action seemed to recede in recent days, with both sides insisting on giving diplo-

macy a chance.

On his way back from the World Economic Forum in Davos, the president told reporters on Air Force One the United States was sending a “massive fleet” toward Iran “just in case.”

“We’re watching Iran,” he said. “I’d rather not see anything happen but we’re watching them very closely.”

Addressing the WEF on Thursday, Trump said the United States attacked Iranian uranium enrichment sites last year to prevent Tehran from making a nuclear weapon. Iran denies its nuclear programme is aimed at seeking the bomb.

“Can’t let that happen,” Trump said, adding: “And Iran does want to talk, and we’ll talk.”

The commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards had also warned Washington Thursday that the force had its “finger on the trigger.”

A fortnight of protests starting in late December shook Iran’s clerical leadership under supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but the movement has petered out in the face of a crackdown that activ-

ists say killed thousands, accompanied by an unprecedented internet blackout. Last week, Trump pulled back from a threat to strike Iran over its deadly crackdown on the protests after the White House said Tehran had halted planned executions of demonstrators.

In a standoff marked by seesawing rhetoric, Trump had on Tuesday warned Iran’s leaders the United States would “wipe them off the face of this Earth” if there was any attack on his life in response to a strike targeting Khamenei.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in a speech Thursday accused the United States and Israel of stoking the protests as a “cowardly revenge... for the defeat in the 12-Day War.” AFP

US negotiators meet Putin for Ukraine talks

MOSCOW – Top US negotiators including Steve Witkoff met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow late Thursday for talks on a US-drafted plan to end the Ukraine war, just as Kyiv announced it had agreed on post-war security guarantees with Washington.

Diplomatic efforts to end Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II have gained pace in recent months, though both Moscow and Kyiv remain at odds over the key issue of territory in a post-war settlement.

Talks concluded after stretching past the three-hour mark, the Kremlin said in a statement released early Friday. Witkoff had previously said he believed the two sides were “down to one issue”, without elaborating.

Video published by the Kremlin showed a smiling Putin shaking hands with Witkoff, US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and White House advisor Josh Gruenbaum.

Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev and Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov took part on the Russian side, the Kremlin said. The high-stakes meeting came just hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said a draft deal was “nearly, nearly ready” and that he and Trump had agreed on the issue of post-war security guarantees. Russia, which occupies around 20 percent of Ukraine, is pushing for full control of the country’s eastern Donbas region as part of a deal. But Kyiv has warned that ceding ground will embolden Moscow and says it will not sign a peace deal that fails to deter Russia from launching a renewed assault.

Iran warns ‘finger on trigger’ in tense rhetoric

PARIS – The commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned Washington the force had its “finger on the trigger” following mass protests, as US President Donald Trump said Tehran still appeared interested in talks.

Trump has repeatedly left open the option of new military action against Iran after Washington backed and joined Israel’s 12-day war in June aimed at degrading Iranian nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

Trump said Thursday (Friday, Manila time) a US naval “armada” was heading

toward the Gulf, adding: “We’re watching Iran.”

A fortnight of protests starting in late December shook Iran’s clerical leadership under supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but the movement has petered out in the face of a crackdown that activists say killed thousands, accompanied by an unprecedented internet blackout.

The prospect of immediate American action against Tehran appears to have receded, with both sides insisting on giving diplomacy a chance.

On his way back from the World

Economic Forum in Davos, Trump told reporters on Air Force One the United States was sending a “massive fleet” toward Iran “just in case.”

“I’d rather not see anything happen but we’re watching them very closely,” he added. In a standoff marked by seesawing rhetoric, Trump had on Tuesday warned Iran’s leaders the United States would “wipe them off the face of this Earth” if there was any attack on his life in response to a strike targeting Khamenei. AFP

OPENING UP. Venezuela’s President of the National Assembly Jorge Rodriguez swears in substitute lawmakers before a plenary session at the National Assembly in Caracas on Friday, Manila time. Venezuela’s parliament was scheduled to begin debating plans

‘Vigilant’ Europe eyes next Trump shock after Greenland climbdown

Vietnam’s To Lam ‘unanimously’ re-elected chief

HANOI – Vietnam’s ruling Communist Party “unanimously” re-elected To Lam as general secretary on Friday, confirming the former security enforcer as the country’s top leader for the next five years and backing his vision for growthoriented change.

In 17 months as party chief, the 68-yearold has swept aside rivals and centralised authority in an aggressive reform drive officials describe as a “revolution.”

The Southeast Asian nation of 100 million people is both a repressive one-party state and a regional economic bright spot, where the Communist Party has sought to deliver rapid growth to bolster its legitimacy.

The party central committee “absolutely unanimously elected Comrade To Lam to continue holding the position of General Secretary”, the party said in a statement.

Tran Thanh Man, chairman of the National Assembly, said the party chief had received 180 out of 180 votes to remain in the top job. Two main factions of the party are seen as vying for dominance over Vietnamese politics, the security wing aligned with Lam and a more conservative military wing. Lam’s faction dominated the new 19-member politburo, the party’s highest decision-making body, with Lam’s nearest rival -- defense chief Phan Van Giang -- relegated to seventh position.

None of the top four members — who by convention correspond to the four “pillars” of Vietnam’s collective system of government — are aligned with the military faction.

It was not immediately clear whether Lam had succeeded in his goal of securing the national presidency — seen as the second most powerful position in Vietnamese politics — as well as the party headship. AFP

Japan PM Takaichi dissolves parliament

TOKYO – Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi dissolved parliament on Friday ahead of a snap election on February 8, counting on her cabinet’s high poll numbers to steer her otherwise unpopular ruling party to victory. The country’s first woman premier announced her intentions on Monday, seeking public backing for measures to shield households from rising living costs and increase spending on defence.

The speaker of parliament on Friday read out a letter, officially dissolving the lower house as lawmakers shouted the traditional rallying cry of “banzai”. The ruling coalition of Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Japan Innovation Party (JIP) has only a slim majority in the powerful lower chamber. But Takaichi is hoping widespread support for her cabinet will help deliver her a stronger mandate even though the LDP itself is battling low approval ratings and a string of scandals. AFP

Trump bruised hand on table, he says

WASHINGTON, DC – Photographs of fresh bruising on Donald Trump’s hand raised eyebrows on Thursday, but the 79-year-old US president dismissed renewed speculation over his health, saying he had simply hit a table.

Trump has been seen with frequent bruising on his right hand since returning to the White House last year, often concealing it with bandages and makeup. The White House has said it is due to a combination of frequent handshaking and the aspirin he takes for his cardiovascular health, which can lead to proneness for bruising.

However, photos on Thursday at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland showed dark bruises in a similar location -- but this time on Trump’s left hand.

The images, taken while Trump was at an inaugural ceremony for his global “Board of Peace” initiative, quickly spread on social media. AFP

Death toll in Pakistan mall fire rises to 67 KARACHI – The death toll from a mall fire in Pakistan’s biggest city rose to at least 67 people, an unnamed spokesperson from the local government said on Friday. Investigators are yet to announce what caused the fire, six days after the blaze gutted the three-story Gul Plaza on January 17.

“Post-mortem examinations of 67 bodies have been completed,” said the spokesperson, adding that DNA analysis was ongoing.

“The identities of eight individuals have been confirmed through DNA analysis”, the spokesperson added. Families have criticized the slow pace of the recovery operation, with more than 50 giving DNA samples in the hope of finding their missing relatives. The provincial government has announced that it will give 10 million rupees ($35,720) to each family of the deceased. All 1,200 shopkeepers will also be compensated. AFP

‘TWEET AWAY.’ Fishing boats are moored at a harbor in Nuuk, Greenland, on Friday, Manila time. Europe has struggled to set red lines as its once-close American ally has turned hostile under Trump -- to the point of threatening its sovereignty. ‘You know we’re only a tweet away from the next crisis,’ summed up one EU diplomat. Greenland is only part of the picture, as Trump wages a broader attack on the EU’s laws, politics and values, zig-zags on the Ukraine conflict. AFP

MILITARY OPTION OPEN. This photograph taken during a tour for foreign media shows burnt religious books inside the Beheshti Mosque that was damaged during recent public protests, in Tehran on Jan. 21, 2026. Demonstrations sparked in late December by anger over economic hardship exploded into protests widely seen as

Sabalenka digs deep; Alcaraz seeks last 16

ELBOURNE—

MAryna Sabalenka said she was “emotionally all over the place” as she was forced to dig deep to reach the last 16 on Friday at the Australian Open, where Carlos Alcaraz will resume his quest for a maiden Melbourne title.

Also in action on day six at Melbourne Park are third seeds Coco Gauff and Alexander Zverev, and former runner-up Daniil Medvedev.

Belarusian world number one

Sabalenka is attempting to win the title for a third time in four years, having been stunned in last year’s final by Madison Keys.

But she did not have it at all easy against unseeded Russian-born Anastasia Potapova of Austria, pulling through 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (9/7) in just over two nervy hours at a sunny Rod Laver Arena.

“I was always on the back foot, one of those days you have to fight to try and get the ball back,” said the top seed.

“Emotionally I was all over the place,” added the 27-year-old four-time Grand Slam champion, who faces Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko for a place in the quarter-finals.

“It was such a fight and I really enjoyed it.”

The 19-year-old Mboko defeated

Tauson of Denmark

5-7, 6-3.

Gauff has been mostly impressive so far, saying she was “near perfect” in making the third round.

The 21-year-old has won the US Open and French Open, but her best performance in Melbourne is the semi-finals.

She faces fellow American Hailey Baptiste, ranked 70, while fastrising Russian eighth seed Mirra Andreeva plays Romania’s ElenaGabriela Ruse.

Jasmine Paolini, the seventh seed from Italy, comes up against dangerous United States teenager Iva Jovic. Alcaraz faces test

Men’s top seed Alcaraz came through a tough three-set arm-wrestle in round two and faces another

tennis tournament in Melbourne. AFP

tricky task against French 32nd seed Corentin Moutet.

The 22-year-old Spaniard is bidding for a career Grand Slam of all four majors. AFP

Infinix continues to power Aurora Gaming’s rise on global stage

AS a dedicated supporter of the esports scene, Infinix Philippines continues to strengthen its partnership with Aurora Gaming PH as the collaboration enters its second year. Built on consistent competitive performances and shared values, the Aurora Gaming x Infinix partnership has grown beyond a traditional sponsorship and evolved into a strategic alliance focused on expanding reach, engaging fans, and reinforcing its presence within gaming culture. Together, Infinix and Aurora Gaming aim to elevate the esports experience by bridging professional competition with everyday gaming communities. This shared vision reflects a commitment not only to elite performance but also to building meaningful connections with fans who actively shape the gaming ecosystem. The impact of the partnership goes far beyond competition, extending into meaningful community involvement and social initiatives. During the recent Christmas season, Infinix and Aurora Gaming together with casters from MPL Philippines collaborated on the “Game for Good” Basketball Event, a community-driven effort that brought together

esports and traditional sports. The event fostered teamwork and camaraderie, uniting players, fans, and local communities in an inclusive shared experience. Proceeds from ticket sales and jersey purchases were donated to ABS-CBN Foundation, underscoring Aurora Gaming’s dedication to giving back, empowering communities, and leveraging its platform for positive change. Through efforts like

these, Infinix and Aurora Gaming demonstrate how gaming and sports can intersect to celebrate Filipino culture while building connections that reach beyond the digital arena.

On the international stage this January 2026, Aurora Gaming proudly represents the Philippines at the M7 World Championship in Jakarta, Indonesia, competing against the world’s top Mobile Legends:

From January 23–25, level up your fitness goals or refresh your gear with must-have essentials from Rudy Project, Garmin, Complex Lifestyle Store, and Anytime Fitness. Then hit the streets with Uptown Bonifacio’s Run Club every Thursday at 6 PM for a community run that turns fitness into a lifestyle.

Bang Bang teams at the highest level of play. The team delivered a determined and disciplined campaign, successfully advancing to the knockout stage. Their performance highlighted Aurora Gaming’s continued growth and resilience, reinforced by the support of partners like Infinix that help empower players to perform at their best under the pressure of global competition.

Back in the Philippines, the passion and dedication of Aurora Gaming’s fanbase were on full display throughout the M7 campaign. Supporters gathered for official watch parties, while local barangays and community groups across the country organized their own satellite viewing events. Infinix helped bring these communities together by supporting the watch parties with Infinix merchandise and phone giveaways, serving as prizes and incentives that encouraged participation and shared moments among fans. These simultaneous gatherings turned Aurora Gaming’s M7 journey into a nationwide celebration, uniting supporters from different regions through a shared excitement for competition and a collective love for the game.

THE Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) starts on a hot note with a record 16 teams competing in the 2026 Preseason Invitational: Road to Tip-off from February 7 to March 21.

Defending national champion Abra Solid North and North Division titlist Quezon Province led the entries, which have been split into two divisions.

MPBL Commissioner Emmer Oreta said the turnout is a pleasant surprise as it eclipsed the cast of the previous preseasons, the last of which was held in 2024 and won by Pampanga in General Santos City. The 2023 MPBL Preseason Invitational was won by Zamboanga, also in Gensan.

Oreta added that the MPBL is considering several venues within Metro Manila that could best accommodate the games and be accessible to the fans.

MPBL Chief Executive Officer Joe Ramos said three games would be held every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, at 3 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. The winner and runner-up of the event get their tournament fees for the 2026 MPBL Eighth Season waived, according to Ramos.

MPBL Founder Manny Pacquiao decided to stage the preseason to give member teams more time to test their players, and evaluate and tinker with their rosters before the regular season begins.

To address officiating concerns, Oreta has tasked Head of Operations Zaldy Realubit and technical head George Magsino with hiring new referees and retraining the existing ones, all of whom will undergo physical conditioning for another long and grueling season.

Lagac eyes dominance in Arcillas junior tournament Record 16 teams join MPBL 2026 preaseason

MIGUEL Lagac is determined to keep his scorching form intact as he leads the charge in the new PPS-PEPP season, headlining the Arcillas National Juniors Tennis Championships at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex and Zaballa 1 courts in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Fresh from a pair of stirring back-toback title sweeps, the fast-rising Cebuano has emerged as the player to beat in the Group 2 tournament, sponsored by Mayor Arlene Arcillas and Vice Mayor Arnold Arcillas and sanctioned by Philta and the Universal Tennis Rating (UTR). Lagac enters the tournament, which got under way Friday, brimming with confidence and momentum after asserting dominance in both the boys’ 16- and 18-and-under singles divisions. He first ruled the MAC’s Crank It tournament in Parañaque, then replicated the feat in the recent Zopiya Morales tournament in Pampanga, where he also pocketed the doubles crown, further cementing his reputation as one of the players to watch on the circuit today. Still, Lagac knows the road to continued supremacy will not be easy.

A deep and talented field awaits him in Sta. Rosa. In the boys’ 16-and-U category, he faces stiff competition from Rafa Monte de Ramos, Matteo Calingasan, Marcus Sio and Nicholas Andal. The premier 18-andU division, meanwhile, features seasoned contenders Frank and France Dilao, Antonio Ng Jr., and Gavin Kraut, all capable of derailing his title drive.

To accommodate the large turnout, the organizing PPS-PEPP has split the schedule, with the boys’ divisions, including the 12-, 14-and-U, – being contested this week, while the girls’ divisions will take center stage next week.

For details, contact tournament director Bobby Mangunay at 0915-4046464. Action is also expected to be intense in the younger age groups. Tyronne Caro, Marcus Sio, Yuan Torrente and Jfsky Berille banner a loaded 14-and-U field, while Torrente, another Pampanga champion, leads the 12-and-U cast that includes Liam Harrow, Noel Zoleta and Rafael Cablitas.

Clara

7-6 (7/5),

VALIENTES IN DUBAI TOURNEY. The MLV-Zamboanga Valientes, led by former PBA and Gilas stars Terence Romeo, Greg Slaughter, and Vic Manuel, leave for Dubai to once again represent the Philippines in the 35th edition of the Dubai International Basketball Championship (DIBC) from January 23 to February 1 at the Rashid bin Hamdan Hall, Al Nasr Club, in Dubai, UAE.

Gaming

Belarus’ Aryna Sabalenka celebrates winning a point against Austria’s Anastasia Potapova in their women’s singles match on day six of the Australian Open

MPBL Commissioner Emmer Oreta

Southwoods Mall Gold’s

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

PH swimmer bags 3rd gold at 13th ASEAN Para Games

NAKHON RATCHASIMA, Thai-

land—Angel Otom plucked two more gold medals as she bannered the Philippines on the third day of the 13th ASEAN Para Games at the 80th Birthday Aquatics Center on Friday.

The 22-year-old Otom broke the women’s 100-meter freestyle S4S5 record as she tallied one minute and 43.87 seconds for her third gold medal in this prestigious competition for differently abled bodies with the Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Paralympic Committee backing the national delegation.

Her time eclipsed the 18-year-record of 2:33.66 set by local bet Junkum Thatananatch back in the 2008 Nakhon Ratchasima Para Games.

The University of the Philippines student grabbed another gold medal in the women’s 200m freestyle S5 event after clocking in 3:44.49.

Otom said she used the pain of her debut in the 2024 Paris Paralympics as lessons in her recent swims.

She made it to the final of the 50m backstroke S5 and the 50m butterfly S5 in the French capital but finished in sixth and fifth place, respectively.

“From Paris, ang dami kong naging disappointments and na-open ko ‘yun sa lahat. From now on, naging lesson talaga sa akin ‘yun and and lesson na nakuha ko is to fight,” said Otom, who already has four gold medals and one silver medal under her belt.

“May mga times na kahit sa cold room, hindi mo kakayanin yan pero kailangan mo magtiwala. Minsan, mahirap siyang i-apply sa sarili pero dapat pagkatiwalaan natin sarili natin.”

Otom will look to end her campaign on a high note as she competes in the women’s 50m freestyle S4-S5 and the mixed 4×50 m medley relay 20 points S1-S10 events on Saturday.

By Peter Atencio

By Randy M. Caluag

TICKETS for the Philippine Women’s Open (PWO) tennis tournament sold out just a day after Alexandra Eala confirmed her participation, as local fans rushed to see the country’s top-ranked player compete on home soil.

Organizers said on Thursday that Standard and Premier Passes for the semifinals and final are already sold out, just 24 hours after Eala announced she would play in the WTA 125 event at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center.

Eala wasted no time upon arriving in Manila, holding her first practice session at the newly renovated venue to familiarize herself with the courts ahead of the tournament.

“I’m looking forward to it and I hope people can

show up and support the Pinays,” Eala said upon her arrival. “It’s a huge milestone in Philippine tennis, and I think it’s a big deal for all of us Filipina tennis players,” said Eala, Eala flew in from Melbourne following her campaign in the 2026 Australian Open, where she made

Eala return sparks ticket rush as PH netfest nears

CHAMPS SECURE 5-SET

WIN. The vepeat-seeking College of St. Benilde Lady Blazers squeaked past the Mapua Lady Cardinals, 25-21, 20-25, 25-14, 23-25, 17-15, in the NCAA Season 101 women’s volleyball tournament at San Andres Sports Complex on Friday.

her main-draw debut in both singles and doubles.

The organizing Philippine Tennis Association, with the full backing of the Philippine Sports Commission, granted Eala a wildcard entry.

“It’s been a dream to have a home tournament,” Eala added.. “I’m so happy that it’s going to bring a lot of inspiration for the girls back home.”

The Rizal Memorial Tennis Center now seats around 2,000 spectators after a month-long renovation, nearly triple the typical 700-seat standard for WTA 125 tournaments. For fans unable to get tickets, large LED screens will be installed around the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

Tickets for the qualifying rounds on Jan. 24–25 and the main draw from Jan. 26–28 remain available through SM Tickets and at SM ticket outlets nationwide. Limited on-site tickets will also be sold from Jan. 24 to 28. Tickets for Jan. 29, as well as all standard and premier passes for the semifinals and final, are already sold out.

The PWO field will feature several top-ranked international players, led by Eala, who recently climbed to a career-high world ranking of No. 49.

Eala triggers tennis boom as Djokovic hails fan surge

MELBOURNE — The meteoric rise of Alexandra

“Alex” Eala is redefining Philippine tennis and fuelling global interest in the sport, according to Novak Djokovic, who praised the young Filipina’s massive popularity at the Australian Open. Djokovic took note of the overwhelming turnout of Filipino fans during Eala’s match earlier this week, calling the attention she draws a “good problem” that reflects tennis’ expanding worldwide appeal.

“I saw the other day, that Alex Eala has been the talk, which is understandable,” Djokovic said during his post-match press conference. “Some players coming from their respective countries, and she comes from the Philippines, which is now a very big deal.”

The fourth-seeded Djokovic shared his thoughts after defeating Francesco Maestrelli, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2, in the second round of the men’s singles at Melbourne Park. He was asked about crowd congestion issues during Eala’s match on a smaller court — a situation he believes highlights a positive trend for the sport.

“Having too much crowd on this or any other tennis tournament is a very good problem to have. I think there are much worse problems to have,” Djokovic remarked.

Baguio

City

Widely regarded as the greatest

tennis

of all time, the 38-year-old said Eala’s drawing power emphasizes tennis’ need to grow in emerging markets, particularly in countries with

emerges as new hub for obstacle sports

THE country’s growing obstacle sports movement has found a new stronghold in the country’s summer capital as Baguio City officially became home to its first Obstacle Regional Training Facility, following the donation of seven obstacle equipment units by the Pilipinas Obstacle Sports Federation (POSF). The initiative positions Baguio as a potential hotbed for obstacle course racing (OCR) and related disciplines, expanding access to the sport beyond Metro Manila and further strengthening grassroots development in Northern Luzon. The donation was formally turned over during a ceremony led by POSF president Atty. Al Agra, who personally handed the equipment to Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. The facility will be operated

through the OCR Baguio Team and will host obstacle events, structured training sessions, and open-use activities for athletes and fitness enthusiasts of all ages.

“This facility represents our commitment to bring obstacle sports closer to communities,” said Al Agra. “Our advocacy is simple—Obstacle Sports for All, Everywhere. Baguio City’s terrain, climate, and active sports culture make it an ideal environment for athletes to train and excel.” Founded in 2017, POSF is accredited by the Philippine Sports Commission and affiliated with the International Obstacle Sports Federation. The federation organized the first Asian Obstacle Course Race Championships in 2018 and has since overseen the sport’s rapid growth in the country. Obstacle racing made its South-

passionate fan bases like the Philippines.

“Let’s just imagine if there’s a lack of people coming or that stands are empty. That’s a bigger problem. I mean, this is great,” he added. “Every tournament wants record-breaking attendance and ticket sales… it’s a good sign. Obviously, we want more attention, more people coming and wanting to watch the tennis live.”

Djokovic acknowledged that tournament organizers could consider scheduling Eala on bigger courts moving forward, given her growing fan following and breakout 2025 campaign.

“There’s big interest (in her). Things like that happen,” he said. “You could argue that it was maybe a poor schedule and maybe they could schedule her on a bigger court. Yes, but again, she’s so young and she’s just coming through.”

Now back in the Philippines, the world No. 49 is preparing for the 2026 Philippine Women’s Open (WTA 125) next week, where organizers at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center are ensuring that crowd management won’t be an issue when she plays.

“I didn’t expect that many people to be there. So it’s a learning process,” Eala said. “I’m still young, so learning how to deal with all of this attention, but at the same time being grateful.”

Sche ler ties for 2nd behind Lee, Coody in La Quinta

LOS ANGELES—World number one Scottie Scheffler made a bright start to 2026, firing a nine-under par 63 on Thursday to join a big group one off the lead shared by Min Woo Lee and Pierceson Coody at the US PGA Tour event in La Quinta, California.

Scheffler, making his season debut after a 2025 campaign that featured two major titles among his six wins, hit just five of 14 fairways. But he displayed some crisp iron play, including a hole out from off the green at 17 for his ninth birdie of the day.

“I got off to a good start today,” Scheffler said. “I was really sharp on the front nine, made some nice putts, hit some good iron shots, a lot of good tee balls.

“I wasn’t as sharp as I would have hoped to be on the back nine, but I scrambled pretty well and was able to post a good score.”

Scheffler played the La Quinta course, one of three par72 courses in use over the first three rounds of the tournament in the California desert east of Los Angeles. Australia’s Lee and American Coody both played the Nicklaus Tournament course and both piled up 10 birdies in their 10-under 62s. Lee admitted to some nerves early in his first competitive round of the year after some tweaks to his swing in the off-season.

“(I) didn’t really know how it was going to go,” he said. “But started off really nice, kept it going.”

He said the benign conditions made for “a great day to make some birdies. AFP

Novak Djokovic

Baguio City Mayor (seated left) Benjie Magalong o cially receives

Al Agra during the turnover ceremony.

sport’s

Alexandra Eala

Saudi

By Othel V. Campos

State-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA)

signed a $200-million agreement with Saudi Arabian energy firm

ACWA Power to bring clean, reliable and affordable power to New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac.

Signed on Jan. 21, 2026 at the InvestPhilippines Business Pavilion at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, the agreement is a major step toward building climateresilient, future-ready developments through low-cost power solutions that combine innovation with longterm value.

BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang said the project also represents a strategic move toward long-term energy independence.

“Together with partners such as ACWA Power, we can maximize New Clark City’s clean energy potential and show that

sustainability can be a powerful driver of economic growth in Central Luzon,” Bingcang said.

Under the agreement, ACWA Power will develop a large-scale renewable energy project covering about 500 hectares in New Clark City. The project aims to enhance the city’s competitiveness as a sustainable destination for business and innovation.

The project will use advanced solar photovoltaic technology and may include battery energy storage to ensure a stable and cost-efficient power supply, subject to technical studies, site validation and necessary approvals.

ACWA Power, a Riyadh-based company listed in Saudi Arabia, manages assets worth $114.6 billion across 15 countries in the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia and Southeast Asia.

The firm has a contracted capacity of 93 GW of power and 9.3 million cubic meters of water per day, delivering sustainable energy and water solutions worldwide.

MTerra Solar revamps board as Leviste quits

By Alena Mae S. Flores

TERRA Solar Philippines Inc., an affiliate of Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGen), announced a reorganization of its board as it advances toward commissioning and the initial injection of energy from its flagship solar project into the national grid.

MGen president and

3,500 MW

Jan. 21, strengthening leadership as the project transitions from development into the commissioning and operations phase.

Rubio succeeds Rep. Leandro Leviste, who recently stepped down from the board. The reorganization reflects MTerra Solar’s evolution as the project moves closer to commercial operations.

4,500 MWh

Battery energy storage

2.4 million MTerra Solar’s capacity

Households to be served

Leviste resigned from SP New Energy Corp. (SPNEC) as board member effective immediately for personal reasons. SPNEC owns majority of Terra Solar.

Spanning four municipalities across Nueva Ecija and Bulacan, the project will generate 3,500 megawatts of solar power complemented by a 4,500-megawatt-hour battery energy storage system. The project will be developed in two phases. The first phase is expected to be completed in 2026, and the second phase a year later. It is expected to supply clean energy to approximately 2.4 million households. Beyond power generation, the project will contribute to carbon reduction by avoiding 4.3 million tons of emissions annually.

BingoPlus Highlights Community Support at Cebu Sinulog Festival

BINGOPLUS strengthened its presence at this year’s Sinulog Festival in Cebu, serving as co-presenter and engaging festivalgoers through a range of on-ground activities while underscoring its commitment to community support through the DigiPlus Foundation.

One of the country’s most iconic cultural and religious celebrations, the Sinulog Festival draws thousands of devotees, locals, and tourists to Cebu City each year in honor of the Santo Niño.

To match the festive spirit, BingoPlus set up interactive

booths, fun challenges, and branded activity zones, enhancing the overall festival experience.

Merchandise and prizes were distributed throughout the celebration, while strategic brand placements across key festival areas boosted visibility during major events and street festivities.

Beyond the celebrations, BingoPlus also highlighted the ongoing efforts of the DigiPlus Foundation, particularly its initiatives to support Cebuanos during times of crisis. The foundation has been actively involved in providing relief assistance and

aid to communities affected by natural disasters, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to social responsibility and community resilience.

BingoPlus’ support helped elevate festival programming while reinforcing its support for broader community initiatives. Attendees welcomed the brand’s presence, highlighting the value of corporate partners that go beyond event sponsorship to make a meaningful social impact.

BingoPlus’ presence at Sinulog showcased its commitment to community engagement, cultural preservation, and disaster response. Through festive activations and social initiatives, the brand contributed to the festival’s success while strengthening its connection with the Cebuano community.

Interactive booths, games, and branded activity zones by BingoPlus added to the vibrant atmosphere of the Sinulog Festival.

BingoPlus brings the festive spirit to the Sinulog Festival with a vibrant float that captured attention during the grand street celebrations in Cebu.

Through the DigiPlus

BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang

ST. LUKE’S AWARD. Representatives from St. Luke’s-Global City’s Quality and Patient Safety Group accepted the Philippine Hospital Association’s award for Most Outstanding Hospital in the Level 3 Private Category. This prestigious recognition was awarded during the 2025 PHA Annual Convention,

from Nov. 26 to 29, 2025.

honor highlights St. Luke’s – Global City’s leadership in the Philippine healthcare sector, recognizing its strong commitment to quality care, patient safety, and consistent service excellence.

EVAP welcomes gov’t funding of CARS program

By Othel V. Campos

THE Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines on Tuesday backed the pronouncement of the Department of Budget and Management, Department of Trade and Industry and Department of Finance that the government will provide funding for the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) and ensure the orderly settlement of valid obligations.

EVAP welcomed the government’s assurance that obligations covered by issued and validated tax payment certificates (TPCs) will be settled in a lawful, fiscally responsible and orderly manner.

The statement identified mechanisms under the FY 2025 appropriations and the possible inclusion of remaining validated requirements under the FY 2027 National Expenditure Program.

More significantly, EVAP stressed that the government’s clear direction directly supports the Electric Vehicle Industry Strategy (EVIS) and strengthens investor confidence in the Philippines as a credible and predictable destination for long-term industrial investment.

“This statement is extremely important for EVAP because EVIS depends on a strong automotive manufacturing base,” EVAP president Edmund Araga said. “Electric mobility cannot scale if the underlying ecosystem— vehicle assembly, parts manufacturing and supplier development—is weakened. The assurance from DBM, DTI and DOF reinforces confidence

in the Philippines as a serious and reliable partner for long-term EV investments.”

EVAP noted that a competitive local auto industry is essential to expanding EV adoption while supporting domestic value creation, including EV parts and components, charging infrastructure, electrical systems and future battery-related manufacturing.

“By honoring commitments under CARS, the government sends a clear signal that the Philippines can be trusted and that industrial transformation under EVIS will be supported in a structured and responsible manner,” Araga added.

The group also underscored that restoring certainty around CARS obligations helps protect the local supplier ecosystem, many of whose capabilities can be upgraded and redirected toward EV components and systems.

DA expands P20 rice program to Aklan, provides P75m in aid

THE Department of Agriculture has expanded the rollout of the “Benteng Bigas Meron Na!” rice program in Aklan, allowing affordable and accessible rice to reach vulnerable Filipino families.

Introduced in 2025, the expanded implementation follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to shield consumers from rising food prices while strengthening food and nutrition security nationwide.

The program is expected to benefit up to 85,000 individuals in Aklan, including minimum wage earners, farmers and fisherfolk, senior citizens, solo parents, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries, persons with disabilities and transport sector workers.

“When consumers can buy affordable rice and farmers have a stable market for their palay, that is when the system works,” Agriculture Sec-

By Alena Mae S. Flores

NATIONAL Grid Corp. of the Philippines is seeking authority from the Energy Regulatory Commission to immediately implement the P2.82 billion Laoag Power Quality Improvement Project.

In its application with the ERC, NGCP said the project aims to mitigate voltage fluctuations in Ilocos Norte, which have been observed following the connection of additional wind power projects.

Ilocos Norte has an existing variable renewable energy (VRE) capacity of 546 megawatts, of which 362 MW are wind and 184 MW are solar. Incoming plants for 2025 to 2026 totaling 405 MW—comprising 149 MW of wind and 256 MW of solar—will result in a total VRE capacity of 951 MW in the province.

NGCP said these fluctuations are expected to worsen with the commercial operation of more VRE plants in the area. To increase generation limits, NGCP adjusted the voltage control settings of existing plants, resulting in an increased dispatch limit of 525 MW.

However, these adjustments are not intended for the long term. Additional wind plants are expected to commence commercial operations, likely worsening voltage fluctuations in Laoag. NGCP said the project will increase the maximum allowable VRE generation dispatch, addressing current limitations.

The project involves the installation of a 50 MVAR grid-forming static synchronous compensator (GFM-STATCOM) and will be complemented by 2x25 MVAR 230-kilovolt capacitor banks at the Laoag 230-kilovolt substation.

“With the implementation of GFM-STATCOM, approximately up to 605 MW of VRE capacity can be accommodated in the Laoag area,” NGCP said.

requirements

1. Only an active authorized eFAST filer may declare beneficial ownership information through HARBOR;

2. The active authorized eFAST filer must have an active eSECURE account to access the HARBOR To log in or register for an eSECURE account, please visit: https://esecure.sec.gov.ph/

3. Starting 30 January 2026, all active authorized eFAST filers must use the 2026 version of the GIS. This version, which removes the BOD Page from the GIS, may be downloaded through this link: https://www.sec.gov.ph/reportorial-requirements/corporations-with-primarylicenses/#gsc.tab=0ml-cft/harbor/#gsc.tab=0

For more information, please visit: https://www.sec.gov.ph/aml-cft/harbor/#gsc.tab=0

For assistance, you may contact the appropriate SEC office below: Concerns SEC Office Contact Details Beneficial Ownership Disclosure Rules of 2026 (SEC MC 15, s. 2025) Anti-Money Laundering Division 8818-5717 eipd-amld@sec.gov.ph

retary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said.

The DA chief said the P20 rice program supports the entire rice value chain by releasing affordable rice and drawing down buffer stocks in National Food Authority warehouses. The move is expected to help stabilize rice prices while ensuring farmers have a reliable market for their produce.

Alongside the expanded rice program, the DA rolled out a package of agricultural interventions worth about P75 million to boost productivity and livelihoods in Aklan.

The assistance included four-wheel drive tractors, rice combine harvesters, farm inputs, certified seeds and fertilizers, crop insurance indemnity checks, composting facilities, hybrid solar renewable energy systems for multiplier farms, trading capital for KADIWA outlets and 20-foot fiberglass fishing boats for fisherfolk.

V. Campos

“This is an increase of 80 MW compared to the existing 525 MW threshold. Through the installation of GFM-STATCOM and 2x25 MVAR capacitor banks, an additional 80 MW of power can be dispatched at Laoag.”

Moreover, NGCP said GFM-STATCOM will provide the capability to rapidly inject or absorb reactive power. This is essential for precise voltage regulation and effectively mitigating voltage fluctuations inherent with the increasing integration of VRE sources into the northern part of the Luzon grid.

The proposed project has an estimated implementation period of 22 months from approval based on a “best-case scenario.”

“Considering that planning, development and construction of transmission facilities take several years, it is critical for NGCP to align its project development with expected demand by acting immediately,” the company said.

Othel

held

This top

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24, 2026

Clark airport passenger traffic up 14% to 2.75m in 2025 on domestic surge

By Darwin G. Amojelar

CLARK International Airport pas-

senger traffic rose 14 percent to 2.75 million in 2025 from 2.40 million the previous year, led by a significant increase in domestic travel and expanded airline flight frequencies.

Domestic travel surged 23 percent to 1.04 million passengers from 847,160 in 2024, according to the latest airport traffic figures. International demand grew 10 percent to 1.71 million passengers compared with 1.55 million in the prior year.

System-wide airline capacity at the gateway also expanded as total available seats increased 12 percent to 3.76 million from 3.35 million.

The growth was led by a 21-percent rise in domestic capacity and an 8-percent increase in international capacity, largely due to airlines adding frequencies on existing routes.

Luzon International Premiere Airport Development (LIPAD) Corp. president and chief executive Noel Manankil said the results reflected a

year of steady growth supported by stronger airline partnerships.

“2025 was a year of steady growth for Clark International Airport,” said Manankil.

The airport recorded an 18-percent increase in total flight movements to 22,745. Domestic movements jumped 34 percent to 12,117 flights, while international operations grew 5 percent to 10,628 movements.

LIPAD, the consortium that manages and operates the facility, attributed the gains to the gradual transfer of turboprop operations from Metro Manila and the airport’s role as a secondary gateway to the capital.

“Looking ahead to 2026, we remain optimistic as airline operations continue to expand at Clark,” Manankil said.

He said Cebu Pacific is expected to complete the transfer of all its turboprop operations to Clark by March, which will further increase connectivity and passenger convenience for travelers from Luzon and nearby regions.

Filipinos tighten belts in 2026, says survey

FILIPINOS are adopting aggressive financial strategies to navigate a cooling economy, with 57 percent planning to slash non-essential spending and 40 percent aiming to learn investment skills this year, according to a new report from Herbalife.

The Herbalife APAC Health & Economic Empowerment Survey 2025, released Friday, highlights a resilient but cautious populace.

While only 30 percent of Filipinos rate their economic well-being as good, 74 percent expect their financial situation to improve over the next 12 months.

THE optimism comes as the Philippines faces a critical juncture, with GDP growth hovering around

4 percent and fiscal pressures weighing on the national recovery.

To bridge the gap between current struggles and future goals, 65 percent of respondents have already cut back on discretionary expenses. Another 28 percent reported sacrificing social gatherings in 2025 to better manage their finances.

Beyond simple saving, 35 percent of Filipinos are actively

exploring entrepreneurial opportunities, while an equal number are spending time researching investment options.

Family security remains the primary driver for these shifts, with 73 percent of respondents citing loved ones as their main motivation for pursuing economic goals.

However, the path remains difficult. Economic uncertainty was cited as a major barrier by 43 percent of those surveyed, and 50 percent pointed to existing personal financial commitments as a significant hurdle.

The data suggest a clear divide between business owners and the general workforce. Entrepreneurs

in the Philippines reported higher levels of confidence and health than their peers.

Roughly 86 percent of entrepreneurs expect their economic well-being to rise this year, compared with 70 percent of non-entrepreneurs. Furthermore, 65 percent of business owners rated their current health and well-being as good, outperforming the 58 percent reported by non-entrepreneurs.

Herbalife Philippines generalmanager Allan Domingo said the survey challenges the idea that running a business is purely a source of stress. In the Philippines, where individuals are seeking extra income to counter rising costs, more

IN

people view entrepreneurship as a viable option, Domingo said.

He said the company remains committed to supporting Filipinos through health initiatives and business opportunities for independent distributors.

Health goals are also moving in tandem with financial ones.

The survey found that 79 percent of Filipinos expect their physical health to improve in 2026, and 59 percent plan to increase their exercise frequency.

The study was conducted in October 2025 across 11 AsiaPacific markets, including the Philippines and featured 8,505 respondents.

BRIEF

DOTr removes beep stored value updaters

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced on Friday the temporary removal of all beep Stored Value Updaters and express renewal devices from rail stations to facilitate an upgrade from outdated 3G technology.

The move follows a National Telecommunications Commission order directing telecommunications companies to implement area-specific shutdowns of 3G services by Dec. 31, 2026.

The agency said the transition is necessary as the older technology has hindered the performance and reliability of the payment equipment.

AF Payments Inc. plans to return the machines to stations within the first quarter of 2026 equipped with 5G technology. While the standalone updaters are offline, DOTr officials said passengers can use the beep mobile app to check card balances and retrieve load transactions by tapping cards on smartphones with near-field communication capabilities.

The DOTr confirmed that ticket vending machines and point-of-sale tellers in all stations remain available for all transactions. All other beep card functions, including turnstile access and loading at teller booths, remain operational. Darwin G. Amojelar

PDIC to sell Davao condo units, lots

THE Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) said it will sell a portfolio of corporate and closed bank assets, including prime commercial condominium units in Davao City and various properties across Visayas and Mindanao, through an electronic public bidding on Feb. 25 and 26.

The state deposit insurer said the assets would be sold on an “as-is, where-is” basis. Bidding starts at 9 a.m. on Feb. 25 and concludes at 1 p.m. on Feb. 26. All bids should be submitted through the PDIC e-bidding portal, with the official opening of bids scheduled for 2 p.m. on the final day.

Featured in the sale are four commercial condominium units and four parking slots at the Landco Corporate Centre in Davao City. Minimum disposal prices for the condo units range from about P7.95 million to P8.37 million, while parking slots are priced between P600,000 and P900,000.

The broader portfolio includes 45 agricultural lots, 19 residential lots and 4 mixeduse residential and agricultural properties. These land holdings range in size from 82 square meters to 10 hectares.

Prospective buyers should complete a one-time registration on the PDIC portal to participate in the auctions.

LandBank sees strong ASENSO bond demand

FINANCE Secretary and Land Bank of the Philippines chairperson Frederick Go led the ceremonial launch of the LANDBANK ASENSO Bonds during a briefing for qualified institutional buyers on Jan. 19, 2026.

The state-run lender reported robust investor interest for the ASEAN sustainability bond offering, which aims to channel capital toward national development projects with measurable environmental and social impacts.

The bond offering is designed to be financially inclusive, allowing individual Filipino investors to participate with a minimum subscription of P10,000.

LandBank president and chief executive Lynette Ortiz said the offering reinforces the bank’s role in providing socially impactful investment opportunities that remain accessible to the general public.

The launch event was attended by several high-ranking government officials, including Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Raphael Lotilla and National Treasurer Sharon Almanza. Their presence signaled strong interagency support for the government’s push toward sustainable finance and green investments.

GSIS DIALOGUE. The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) holds a stakeholders’ dialogue to mark the 25th anniversary of its Kidapawan Branch, continuing the practice of direct engagement with members in North Cotabato. Shown is GSIS president and general-manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso as he engages members in a dialogue in

Kidapawan City to gather feedback and address concerns on GSIS programs and services. Veloso also received plaques of recognition from the DepEd Schools Division of Cotabato and Kidapawan City for his leadership in digital innovation and support for education through the Adopt-a-School Program.

Google empowers beginners to

code their 1st app with Gemini

HAVE you ever had a brilliant idea for an app— maybe the next huge gamechanger—but felt held back because you didn’t know how to code? Whether you’re a student with a passion project, a teacher looking to organize your classroom, or an entrepreneur with a vision, the barrier between your imagination and an actual, functional app just disappeared thanks to the latest updates to Google Gemini.

Today, Google is introducing a new way to create and code with Gemini 3. Through Google AI Studio, software development is moving into an era of “vibe coding,” where you can describe what you want in plain English and watch the AI handle the heavy lifting. You provide the sketch or the idea; Google AI Studio handles the code, the visuals, and the logic.

Here’s how AI Studio works: Go to the site: No need for complex software; just visit aistudio.google. com and start describing your idea. Multimodal magic: Want your app to understand images, audio, or

video? You can add those abilities just as easily as typing a sentence. One-click launch: When you’re happy with what you’ve built, you can deploy it directly to Google Cloud with a single click.

“We’re moving from a world where you have to write every line manually,

to a world where you orchestrate.

The fundamental skills of critical thinking and creativity are becoming more valuable, not less,” says Logan Kilpatrick, Group Product Manager at Google DeepMind, Google’s AI research lab.

By removing the manual grind

AS 2026 begins, many Filipinos are entering the new year still navigating familiar challenges. Healthcare gaps persist, flooding continues to threaten communities, and economic and political uncertainties linger. Yet across the country, people are refusing to slow down — continuing to build solutions, support neighbors, and take action where they can. Looking back at the close of 2025, UNLEASH Philippines helped shine a light on these ongoing efforts.

The program brought together individuals driving change in different sectors, giving them space to exchange insights and strengthen solutions already taking root in their communities.

Held at the University of Santo Tomas (UST), the week-long Innovation Lab gathered 150 participants from across the Philippines. Through workshops, field visits, and co-creation sessions, teams refined solutions across three thematic tracks: Health Equity &

HP Philippines officially introduced its latest addition to its workstation portfolio: the ZBook Ultra G1a laptop, HP’s most powerful 14” mobile workstation, and the Z2 Mini G1a Workstation desktop PC, HP’s most powerful mini workstation.

These two new, next-gen AI PCs are designed to handle demanding AI workloads, accelerate creative processes, and support high-performance professional applications, empowering professionals, businesses and creatives to achieve new levels of productivity, performance and innovation. Both the HP ZBook Ultra G1a laptop and Z2 Mini G1a Workstation desktop PCs were built to deliver next-gen AI performance and mobility in compact designs. The HP ZBook Ultra and HP Z2 Mini enable users to run complex workflows simultaneously such as 3D design, render graphics-intensive projects, and work locally with large language models (LLMs). HP’s latest workstation line-up meets the growing demand amongst professionals and creatives for high-performing computing devices to harness the power of AI. In the Philippines, the creative economy is a major contributor to jobs and national growth, employing over 7 million people and accounting for about 7.3 % of GDP — yet many in the sector face gaps in digital skills

Biomedical Innovation, Resilient Agriculture & Food Systems, and Sustainable Cities & Communities through Engineering Innovation.

The program is part of the global UNLEASH initiative and was developed in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering’s Leaders in Innovation Fellowships (LIF). Innovation rooted in real community needs

For many participants, their decision to join came from deeply personal

and technology readiness as workflows become more complex and digitally intensive. Reports highlight the need to upskill creative and technical workers in digital technologies, including AI and advanced media tools, to better prepare them for evolving industry demands.

“Many Filipino creators and professionals today are handling far more complex tasks than they were even a few years ago. Our goal with ZBook Ultra and Z2 Mini is simply to make sure they have tools that match those evolving demands,” said Ida Evina Ong-Co,

of coding, Google and Gemini are opening the door for creators, leaders, young creatives, and parents to focus on what really matters: creativity and solving problems.

Try out “vibe coding” at Google AI Studio and see what you can build today.

‘26

experiences with the problems they wanted to solve.

Erica Urquiaga, part of the agriculture track, grew up in a farming family in Bukidnon. Crop loss wasn’t just a statistic — it shaped her childhood.

“When harvests fail, it affects everything — income, meals, school. Innovation doesn’t need to look big to be meaningful. Sometimes it just solves something people deal with every day,” she shared.

Her team is developing a low-cost soil monitoring tool to help small farmers make better decisions amid shifting weather patterns.

Designing cities with people in mind

For RJ Gatchalian, the program reinforced the need to balance technical frameworks with lived realities.

“We often design cities from policy documents and data models. UNLEASH reminded us to sit down with actual communities,” he said.

His team’s project focuses on helping essential workers navigate mobility disruptions during flooding — an issue he observed firsthand while working with labor groups.

Managing Director of HP Philippines “The launch of both AI-powered workstations also advances HP vision for the future of work, where design solutions that deliver growth and more fulfilling work experiences.” The launch highlighted HP’s long-standing goal of equipping the workforce with purposebuilt technology that adapts to evolving demands. With AI becoming central to creative applications, from video editing to generative design, HP’s new workstation lineup is engineered to deliver sustained performance, reliable thermals, and professional-grade certification.

Canon PH names Pleno as Director of Business Imaging Solutions

CANON Marketing (Philippines), Inc. proudly announces the appointment of Rafael “Peng” Pleno as Director of Business Imaging Solutions. He succeeds Kenichiro Kitamura, who has transitioned to Canon Inc.

In this role, Pleno will lead the company’s Business Imaging Solutions unit, overseeing managed print services, production printing, and digital workflow solutions that help enterprises across key industries achieve greater efficiency and innovation.

With over 20 years of experience in managed print services, digital transformation, and production printing, Pleno has delivered

pandemic.

“I am excited to lead the Business Imaging Solutions team at such an important time for Philippine businesses,” said Pleno. “My focus is on leveraging Canon’s technology and expertise to drive innovation, simplify workflows, and help organizations achieve measurable improvements in growth and efficiency.”

Introducing the New HP Workstations

The HP ZBook Ultra G1a and Z2 Mini G1a redefine what’s possible for professionals demanding uncompromising performance in compact form factors. Powered by AMD Ryzen™ AI Max PRO processors, both devices deliver advanced AI acceleration, next-gen integrated graphics, and ISVcertified reliability with up to 50 TOPS NPU of AI processing capability. With unified memory architecture of up to 128GB and up to 96GB assignable to the GPU, these devices are engineered to handle the most demanding applications — from generative design and 3D rendering to AI model deployment and real-time content creation.

HP ZBook Ultra G1a, the world’s most powerful 14-inch mobile workstation[1], defies what is possible on the go. As part of HP’s PC brand transformation and vision for the future, Z by HP will now offer an Ultra in its mobile workstation portfolio. With its compact design and new AMD Ryzen™ AI Max PRO processor, the ZBook Ultra offers the performance to tackle workflows previously not possible on a laptop. Take desk-bound workflows anywhere with an ultra-thin and light design, combined with a long-lasting battery, Next Gen AI PC features, and AI-enhanced privacy.

A gathering of innovators from across the country, building people-focused solutions through collaboration.

Rafael ‘Peng’ Pleno

WASHINGTON

—TikTok announced Thursday it has established a majority Americanowned joint venture to operate its US business, allowing the company to avoid a ban over its Chinese ownership.

The TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC will serve more than 200 million users and 7.5 million businesses while implementing strict safeguards for data protection, algorithm security and content moderation, the company said.

The new structure responds to a law passed under President Donald Trump’s predecessor, Joe Biden, that forced Chinese-owned ByteDance to sell TikTok’s US operations or face a ban in its biggest market.

ByteDance retains a 19.9 percent stake in the joint venture -- keeping its ownership below the 20 percent threshold stipulated by the law.

Three investors -- Silver Lake, Oracle and Abu Dhabi-based AI investment fund MGX -- each hold 15 percent stakes. Oracle’s executive chairman Larry Ellison is a longtime Trump ally.

Other investors include Dell Family Office, affiliates of Susquehanna International Group and General Atlantic, and several other investment firms.

The joint venture will retain decision-making authority over trust and safety policies and content moderation for US users, while TikTok’s global entities will manage

TikTok establishes joint pact to end US ban threat

international product integration and commercial activities including e-commerce and advertising. Under the arrangement, US user data will be stored in Oracle’s secure cloud environment, with cybersecurity audited by third-party experts and adhering to federal standards, TikTok said.

Shown here are Chinese social networking service TikTok’s logo on a smartphone screen (left) and a US and China ag illustration on a laptop screen in Frankfurt am Main, western Germany. TikTok announced on January 22, 2026 that it has established a majority American-owned joint venture to operate its US business that will allow the company to avoid a ban over its Chinese ownership. The TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC will serve more than 200 million users and 7.5 million businesses while implementing strict safeguards for data protection, algorithm security and content moderation, the company said.

XIAOMI Philippines recently launched the REDMI Note 15 Pro Series, and with that launch comes an exclusive ₱19,008 worth of all-around protection package for the REDMI Note 15 Pro+ 5G and the REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G. Available from January 16 to February 28, 2026, this comprehensive warranty program ensures that every customer enjoys long-term assurance and confidence in their device.

The protection package covers the most critical aspects of device use. A four-year battery warranty provides a free one-time service within 48 months, guaranteeing longterm reliability and sustained performance.

In addition, customers benefit from a twoyear one-time liquid damage and exterior protection warranty, which covers either motherboard and screen repair or replacement due to accidental spills, as well as front and back cover repair or replacement in the event of external damage. By consolidating these benefits into a single one-time claim, Xiaomi ensures that users are protected against the most common and costly accidents. Finally, a two-year standard warranty offers free repair or replacement for essential device issues, rounding out the total ₱19,008 value of coverage.

Planting seed of hope: A

OVER the last 12 months, Tala Philippines has planted the seed of hope for the Global Majority with a belief that every small act of cultivation holds the promise of significant change. And true enough, 2025 has seen success and sustained growth for Tala as it actively diversified the tools of empowerment beyond just credit, bringing financial access closer to many Filipinos in need.

This year, Tala Philippines has reached 4.5 million customers nationwide, a record-breaking number to its expanding customer base. This, coupled with over 28 million total disbursed loans amounting to P137 billion, reflects Filipinos’ increasing trust in Tala as their financial partner for long-term growth. It also reaffirms its commitment of advancing financial inclusion for the underbanked population.

Moving beyond loan access, the company also launched its new campaign, TALAverse: Patas Na Ang Laban! that aims to actively promote fairness and equal access to financial services for all. Through this narrative, it shows how Tala levels the playing field by providing flexible and convenient online credit that ensures foundation and opportunity to grow, succeed, and rise above life’s challenges. As the highlight of the event, Tala

The joint venture will be governed by a seven-member, majorityAmerican board including TikTok CEO Shou Chew and executives from major investment firms.

TikTok executive Adam Presser was appointed CEO of the new entity, with Will Farrell serving as chief security officer.

The 2024 law came as US policymakers, including Trump in his first presidency, warned that China could use TikTok to mine Americans’ data or exert influence through its algorithm.

But Trump, crediting the app for his appeal with young voters, delayed enforcement through successive executive orders, most recently extending the deadline to January 22.

The deal largely confirms an outline announced to staff by Chew last month.

Trump said in September that a new venture had been agreed with China and would meet the law’s requirements.

Trump specifically named Ellison, one of the world’s richest men, as a major player in the arrangement. Ellison has returned to the spotlight through his dealings with Trump, who has brought his old friend into major AI partnerships with OpenAI.

Ellison has also financed his son David’s recent takeover of Paramount and bidding war with Netflix for Warner Bros. AFP

This program is validated by Frost & Sullivan’s “Southeast Asia 2024–2025 Smartphone After-Sales Benefits Report,” which recognizes Xiaomi’s leadership in customer care and after-sales service. By extending coverage across battery, accidental damage, and core functionality, Xiaomi reinforces its promise of reliability and long-term assurance for Filipino consumers.

The REDMI Note 15 Pro Series is now available through Xiaomi’s online platforms such as the official Lazada and Shopee stores, as well as official offline retail stores. The REDMI Note 15 Pro is priced at ₱19,999, while the top-tier REDMI Note 15 Pro+ 5G is available at ₱27,999. Customers who purchase through these authorized outlets during the promo period from January 16 to February 28, 2026 will automatically enjoy the exclusive ₱19,008 all-around protection package, which covers battery, liquid damage, front and back cover, and a two-year standard warranty. This makes the launch not only about delivering advanced smartphone technology but also about providing unparalleled confidence and long-term assurance for Filipino consumers.

a chance to win raffle prizes by simply using the filter, uploading the video, and following the entry guidelines.

introduced award-winning actress, mom, and entrepreneur, Judy Ann Santos, as its very first brand ambassador. Since entering the Philippines in 2017, Tala has finally chosen the face that best embodies its promise to its customers: that Tala can be Filipinos’ “kasangga sa laban ng buhay” in a world where financial empowerment is a superpower, and that the

everyday Filipinos (mothers, workers, dreamers) get to be the heroes in their own life transformations.

Tala also took this year to further boost its social media engagement with a fresh digital initiative of a TikTok game filter within the TALAverse campaign. This interactive branded mission was developed in collaboration with influencers and offered users

As part of expanding its reach, Tala also brought its flagship financial literacy program, TALAkayan with Salve Ibañez, from in-person workshops into the digital space. These online episodes are released every Saturday across Tala Philippines’ official Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok pages, highlighting the company’s efforts to help Filipinos navigate their financial journeys.

This strengthened commitment to building a financially informed and empowered Philippines did not go unnoticed as it garnered distinction from award-giving bodies, gaining momentum and recognition locally and in Asia.

Notably, Tala’s workshop series, TALAkayan with Salve Ibañez, has been presented with a Bronze Stevie® Award at the Asia Pacific Stevie® Awards held in Seoul, South Korea last May for the Innovation in Community Relations or Public Service Communications category. In the same year, TALAkayan was also given an Excellence Award and got recognition in the Community Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility category at the Philippine Quill Awards.

Garmin Approach R50: Portable golf launch monitor with built-in simulator

GARMIN has announced the all-new Approach® R50 premium launch monitor and golf simulator, allowing golfers the luxury of teeing it up 365 days a year on their home setup or at any driving range.

The Approach R50 features a 10” built-in, color touchscreen display and more than 43,000 preloaded golf courses worldwide with an improved version of Home Tee Hero1. Utilizing three different cameras, the launch monitor can track more than 15 ball and club metrics2, including measured spin rate and spin axis. It can also provide precision analytics for every club – from the driver to the putter –and deliver high-speed impact videos so players can review a close-up look at their contact for each shot.

“Leveraging our most advanced technology with an elaborate threecamera system, our Approach R50 can provide golfers of all levels with the cutting-edge metrics and analytics they need to help improve their game. Whether you want to see specific shot metrics, see how and where the ball comes off your club, or just want to play a round on a rainy day, we’ve got your game.” – Dan Bartel, Garmin Vice President of Global Consumer Sales. Get a tee time anytime A cold, rainy day often results in a canceled tee time. But with the Approach R50 and an indoor setup, golfers don’t need to take a day off due to bad weather. Play a full virtual round – from drive to putt – on more than 43,000 courses around the world from the comforts of the garage, basement, or driving range. Through the enhanced Home Tee Hero simulator, golfers can play virtual rounds with up to four players and participate in weekly tournaments with scores posted on a global

Financial guru Salve Ibañez facilitates the award-winning TALAkayan workshops that teaches participants the basics of personal nance and money management.

SHOWBIZ

When Filipino horror left a lasting mark

MY WIFE Kaye, who’s a former film reviewer, forwarded to me an old picture of veteran character actor Rez Cortez, casually posed with one-time showbiz charmer Ana Roces, which she saw on Facebook. She did it to make me laugh. And it took me just a few seconds to determine that it was not just a random photograph of the two of them smiling, taken in an unnamed barrio.

Though the picture was captioned to inform everyone of the allure of fiestas in the Philippines, it is clear that the punchline is actually a nod to an episode from the horror anthology film Shake Rattle & Roll 2, titled Aswang, which features both film figures opposite the segment’s main star, Manilyn Reynes. In the fear flick, Cortez portrayed the main villain named Tanda, while Roces appeared as Monica, best friend of the girl (played by Reynes), a virgin whom she lures into their town as a human sacrifice.

The picture reminded me of how scared I was after seeing that episode for the first time. I won’t be surprised if there’s a ranking of all the film series entries, and that the third and last segment from the second of seventeen films will be placed on top.

The story, inspired by the legend of Teniente Gimo, centers on Manilyn Reynes’ character Portia as she travels to a remote village for its fiesta at the invitation of her friend Monica. Along the way, a tricycle driver, played by Richard Gomez, warns her that the locals are aswangs. She brushes it off, only to confront a far more literal truth. Its atmosphere, performances, mounting tension, and brisk pace create a brand of horror that leans into the supernatural while feeling unmistakably Filipino. Monica’s eerie calm as she reveals her town’s dark secret lingers, tightening the sense of dread as Portia searches for a way out.

an entire generation

legendary Lilia

moviegoers as Philippine cinema’s

iconic aswang Reynes had already claimed scream queen status long before Kris Aquino’s turn in Feng Shui. While the latter thrives on jump scares, aswang leaves a deeper imprint. In the 1990s, after a rewatch of the episode, its images—the dim lighting, a boy gnawing meat to the bone, the caged tricycle driver—were so vivid that I turned down a classmate’s invitation to a provincial fiesta. I even laughed at myself for passing up a promised escape, yet a sliver of fear lingered, a wild thought that I might stumble into a village of shape-shifting strangers. Raised in the metro and suddenly the last one still set to go, I backed out at the last minute. You bet I didn’t tell my mate my real reason. But the sad part was, I noticed that same classmate drifting away after that summer’s beg-off. No regrets, though, even if I find it ridiculous not being able to conquer my fear of that film, that bit about aswangs residing and waiting in some secluded area. It was what it was, and I had to make a decision. It was a lesson that good fiction delivered well, or a story properly told, can be effective, and that became my takeaway.

SRR’s Aswang also features actress Vangie Labalan as Monica’s Nanay, whose angry scream at the sight of her dead daughter echoes scarily through the night setting. It also includes Anjo Yllana, Lilia Cuntapay, Malu de Guzman, and Aljon Jimenez, who became Reynes’ husband in real life. Shake, Rattle & Roll is considered the longest-running film series in the Philippines and even throughout Southeast Asia.

Iloilo welcomes star-studded Dinagyang Festival weekend

City is alive with energy as the Dinagyang Festival kicks off a weekend packed with performances from some of GMA Network’s top talents, with GMA Regional TV leading special coverage of the celebration. Festivities began Friday, Jan. 23, with Ashley Ortega, Derrick Monasterio, and Elle Villanueva from the upcoming series Apoy headlining the Kapuso

Mall Show at Southpoint, SM City Iloilo. Fans were treated to high-energy performances as the trio brought their showmanship to the Dinagyang crowd.

Today, Jan. 24, the excitement continues with Jillian Ward of Never Say Die, joined by Hating Kapatid stars Cassy Legaspi and Cheska Fausto. The Kapuso Mall Show at Robinsons Iloilo Fountain Area starts at 4:00 p.m., drawing younger audiences eager to meet their favorite stars.

The celebration wraps up tomorrow, Jan. 25, with Charlie Fleming, Sean Lucas, Anthony Constantino, and Allen Ansay, stars of the upcoming horror film Huwag Kang Titingin. They will appear at the Kapuso Mall Show at Festive Walk Mall at 7:00 p.m.

Beyond the mall stages, GMA Regional TV and

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Synergy are bringing the festival to viewers at home. Highlights include the Ati Tribe Competition, featured in Hala Bira Dinagyang Festival 2026 airing Sunday at 7:30 a.m. The program streams live on gmaregionaltv.com, the Facebook pages of GMA Regional TV, GMA Regional TV News, and GMA Integrated News, as well as the YouTube channels of GMA Regional TV and GMA Integrated News, giving audiences multiple ways to catch one of

Snubs, big surprises shake up this year’s Oscars

THE nominations delivered shocks and talking points on Thursday, even as Sinners led the field with a record 16 nods ahead of the March 15 ceremony.

The biggest talking point was Grande’s absence. After a supporting actress nod for the first film, she failed to land a nomination for For Good, despite her larger role. The sequel drew no nominations at all, a sharp contrast to the original’s 10 nods and two wins.

Despite her larger role in ‘Wicked: For Good’, Ariana Grande is not nominated, unlike the original ‘Wicked’

success comes as the studio faces a possible sale, with Paramount, Skydance, and Netflix among those circling.

The Academy set a new high with four non-English-language acting nominations, including three Norwegians from Sentimental Value and Brazil’s Wagner Moura for The Secret Agent. Director Chloe Zhao became only the second woman, after Jane Campion, to earn multiple directing nominations.

The Oscars introduced a best casting category for the first time since 2002. The nominees largely matched the best picture frontrunners, including Hamnet, Marty Supreme, One Battle After Another, The Secret Agent, and Sinners Timothée Chalamet earned his third best actor nomination for Marty Supreme, adding a producing nod for the same film. With nine nominations overall, including best director for Josh Safdie, the film’s strong showing positions Chalamet as a serious contender heading into March. AFP

Chase Infiniti (One Battle After Another) and Paul Mescal (Hamnet) also missed out, while Delroy Lindo (Sinners) and Elle Fanning (Sentimental Value) delivered surprise supporting nominations.

Warner Bros claimed an enviable position with the two leading contenders. Sinners topped the list with 16 nominations, followed by One Battle After Another with 13. The Timothée Chalamet receives his third best actor nomination and a producing nomination for ‘Marty Supreme’

CONTENDERS for the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 crown are starting to emerge as accredited partners begin holding their local pageants to determine their respective bets for the national competition. Early names for the coveted title include Miss Universe Philippines Laguna Tourism 2026 Subijano Montenegro, and Miss Universe Philippines Iloilo 2026 Zestah Espinosa Montenegro, the statuesque 26-year-old daughter of actor-host Hans Montenegro and Miss World 1994 Top 10 finalist Cara Subijano, is trying her luck this time in the Miss Universe Philippines pageant after joining Miss World Philippines 2022, where she was named Miss Eco Philippines 2022. She went on to finish in the Top 21 at Miss Eco International 2022 in Egypt. A graduate of Entrepreneurship with a minor in Culinary Arts from Enderun Colleges, Montenegro also completed ground school for a Commercial Pilot’s

Charlie Fleming is set to appear at

Touchbass

Yugel Losorata

The

Cuntapay, who haunted

of

most

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24, 2026

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

Writer

JASPER VALDEZ,

Cebu positions itself as a full-scale MICE and entertainment hub as the P3.3-billion SMX Convention Center targets a Q3 2026 opening with over 21,000 sqm of leasable space for events up to 18,000 delegates

By Nickie Wang

CEBU City is gearing up for a major boost in the world of events and exhibitions as the Philippines’ largest SMX Convention Center is set to open in the third quarter of 2026.

Situated along the Cebu South Coastal Road, the P3.3 billion SMX landmark promises more than 21,000 square meters of leasable event space, making it a game-changer for MICE—meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions—in the country. Scalable halls, world-class amenities, and professional support services will allow organizers to host events for up to 18,000 delegates, all under one roof.

“Cebu has always been one of the most in-demand destinations for events, and we are proud to bring SMX’s trusted service to this vibrant market,” said Walid Wafik, senior vice president of Operations at SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. “This is the culmination of over two decades of experience delivering professional, high-impact events.”

SMX has long been recognized as the premier convention center brand in the Philippines, known for tailored, professionally managed spaces suited to exhibitions, corporate conferences, and celebrations of all sizes.

The new Cebu venue will sit beside SM Seaside City Cebu, offering direct access to major retail and lifestyle hubs, as well as key infrastructure like the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

The development is part of a larger master plan that includes a 300-room Park Inn Hotel, a 200-

Cebu to welcome Philippines’ largest SMX Convention Center

room Radisson Hotel, and the 16,000-seat SM Seaside Arena, positioning Cebu as a fully integrated MICE and entertainment destination.

“This project responds to the long-standing demand for a convention venue of this scale in Cebu,” added Wafik. “Soon, delegates and visitors alike won’t need to fly to Manila for major exhibitions, summits, or concerts—the experience will be right here.”

SMX Convention Center is the flagship brand of SM Hotels and

Bringing connectivity to the heart of Sinulog 2026

CEBU’S home fiber leader, serving nearly half of the city, is celebrating Sinulog Festival 2026 by bringing people closer through shared festival experiences.

Rooted in faith, culture, and community, Sinulog draws millions each year to honor the Sto. Niño with vibrant street dances, religious events, and cultural activities that define Cebuano identity.

“As the market leader in Cebu’s home fiber market, being part of Sinulog means being present in moments that truly matter,” said John Y. Palanca PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business. “Reliable connectivity helps bring people together, whether in Cebu or watching from anywhere in the world.”

PLDT Home kicked off the celebrations with a Sinulog Festival Roadshow on January 16, led by ambassador Dominic Roque. The roadshow stopped at key city spots, including SM City Cebu, Plaza Independencia, One Mango Place, and Fuente Osmeña Circle, connecting festival-goers to the brand and its services.

From Jan. 17 to 18, PLDT Home rolled out on-ground initiatives, including the Fiber Fast Zone—a dedicated space offering free high-speed WiFi, charging stations, and hydration points.

On January 18, the zone hosted face painting and a mini concert featuring local talent, highlighting the brand’s support for Cebuano culture.

Beyond activations, PLDT Home extends support through festival sponsorships and community programs.

Its Sinulog Festival Sale offers the Fiber Unli All Plan 1399 with free installation and a speed boost, while the BFF (Broadband Free Forever) Promo, running Jan. 15 to April 15, gives new subscribers a chance to win free broadband for life.

“Sinulog is not just Cebu’s celebration—it’s something the world looks forward to,” Palanca added.

“Through reliable fiber connectivity, PLDT Home ensures every prayer, performance, and celebration can be shared beyond the streets of Cebu.”

Festival-goers are invited to visit the PLDT Home Fiber Fast Zone to experience high-speed fiber firsthand and take advantage of festival offers.

TRAVEL just got smarter.

Lifestyle and travel brand Tumi has unveiled the next evolution of its Alpha collection, designed for men who demand performance, precision, and style wherever life takes them.

Formula 1 World Champion and Tumi global brand ambassador Lando Norris leads the campaign,

Conventions Corp., a subsidiary of SM Prime Holdings, with a total of over 41,000 square meters of leasable space across multiple properties, including SMX Aura, SMX Bacolod, SMX Davao, and SMX Clark. The hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings currently manages ten hotels, offering more than 2,600 rooms and over 42,000 square meters of convention space nationwide, reinforcing the group’s position as a leader in Philippine MICE and hospitality.

approach to modern movement.

Shot by Reto Schmid and directed by Alice Schillaci, the campaign frames Norris as a man on a mission. Every shot reflects focus, intent, and the understated efficiency of Alpha—a collection engineered to keep up with life in motion, from business trips to global adventures.

“When you’re preparing for something important, you don’t want distractions—you want everything to work exactly as it should,” says Norris. “Whether I’m racing or travelling, Alpha feels built for that mindset.”

Victor Sanz

Tumi rolls out the next evolution of Alpha led by global ambassador