SENATOR Bong Go and former Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II denied they were “co-perpetrators” or accomplices in relation to the crimes against humanity case against former President Rodrigo Duterte filed with the International Criminal Court.
“I dispute these allegations which are entirely unfounded, one-sided, unfair and bear no relation to the reality of my roles and responsibilities during my service as Special Assistant to the President from June 2016 to October 2018 as well as Executive Assistant to the Mayor of Davao City from 1998 to 2016,” Go said.
“I will not allow these baseless accusations to distract me from my
ICC names Go, Bato as Rody co-perpetrators
Others tagged: Ex-DOJ chief Aguirre, former PNP, NBI execs
By Pot Chavez
TWO sitting senators have been identified as “co-perpetrators” in former President Rodrigo Duterte’s crimes against humanity trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC), documents released by prosecutors showed.
Ejercito: No tension if China stops bullying Filipinos
By Rex Espiritu, Joel Zurbano and Charles Dantes
SENATOR JV Ejercito reminded Chinese Embassy officials there would not have been a tense exchange of remarks if China simply desisted from bullying Filipino fishermen and officials and respected Philippine sovereignty.
“If they were not driving away our fisherfolk or bullying our Philippine Coast Guard or attacking our officials, then there would be no conflict,” said Ejercito.
“Respect begets respect,” he added.
Ejercito and Senator Raffy Tulfo earlier called for the replacement of Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan, whom they described as “very aggressive and very sensitive.”
Chinese Embassy spokesperson Ji Lingpeng fired back on Friday, saying it was not their place to call for the designation of a new ambassador and warning that such “childish” actions could cost millions of jobs.
“Who do they think they are? Do they even have the capability? They
Poor
By Charles Dantes
know they can’t do that, yet they keep repeating the same old tricks—always posturing, always bluffing,” the Chinese official added.
Yesterday, Li again posted a statement on the embassy’s social media page in response to criticisms by Mamamayang Liberal Rep. Leila de Lima that the Chinese official, whom she likened to a wolf warrior, enjoys freedom of speech in the Philippines but not in his own country “controlled by a one-party dictatorship.”
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the automatic enrollment of poor households into the lifeline electricity subsidy and directed faster processing of net - metering applications to lower power costs and expand renewable energy use. Speaking at the “Collective Response to Presidential Commitments in the Energy Sector” yesterday, Mr. Marcos said the government would automatically register all beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang
By Charles Dantes
DAYS before the country marks the Lunar New Year, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan underscore cultural ties and cooperation amid simmering geopolitical tensions between Manila and Beijing officials. At the launch of Phase II of the Chinatown Revitalization Project in
Binondo Friday evening, Mr. Marcos said the heritage initiative honors centuries-old connections between Filipinos and the Chinese community while supporting tourism, mobility, and local business growth in Manila’s historic district. “Heritage must be something we can all learn from and enjoy, regardless of where we come from or who
SAFE LOVE. Youth volunteers distribute free condoms and roses during a Valentine’s Day and
Condom Day campaign at the
Senator Bato Dela Rosa Senator Bong
chief Oscar Albayalde (ret.)
IN BRIEF
Meralco-backed Terra Solar achieves grid milestone
MERALCO PowerGen Corp. affiliate Terra Solar Philippines Inc. has completed the initial grid synchronization and energization of its MTerra Solar project, marking a key milestone for what is set to become the world’s largest integrated solar and battery storage facility.
The project will help boost Luzon’s power supply ahead of the dry season.
Phase 1 is on track, with 1,288 megawatts-direct current of installed solar capacity and 622 battery storage units in place. Following synchronization, 250 megawatts-alternating current of solar power and 112.5 megawatt-hours of storage are targeted to be ready by end-February.
The facility will initially export 85 megawatts of steady power to the grid.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the plant could eventually supply 10 percent of Luzon’s power demand, while company officials said the milestone proves the Philippines can deliver large-scale renewable projects on schedule.
Alena Mae S. Flores
Dizon orders completion of stalled projects first
PUBLIC Works Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to complete all pending and stalled infrastructure projects nationwide before submitting new proposals, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to fast-track ongoing works.
“I told them not to propose new projects unless the unfinished ones are funded and completed first,” Dizon said during an inspection of bridge projects in Piddig, Ilocos Norte. He stressed that projects already started must be prioritized to ensure public funds are properly utilized and communities benefit without delay.
Dizon said the President wants infrastructure delivered on time and within budget. “We have to make sure that every peso spent translates into better roads, safer bridges and real economic opportunities for our people,” he said.
Vito Barcelo
Philippines, Canada to start free trade agreement talks
THE Philippines and Canada will begin their first round of negotiations for a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) from Feb. 18 to 20 in Manila, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Saturday, marking a milestone in efforts to deepen economic ties.
The talks stem from an agreement between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney during their bilateral meeting in Kuala Lumpur in October last year, where both leaders committed to conclude negotiations within 2026. Foreign Affairs spokesperson Angelica Escalona said the launch of formal negotiations reflects the “positive momentum” in relations between the two countries. At the 7th Meeting of the Philippine-Canada Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation on Feb. 12, officials cited the FTA as a key step toward expanding trade and investment flows.
V-DAY VOWS.
Bar says willing to host Carpio-Marcoleta debate
By Pot Chavez
THE Philippine Bar Association (PBA) has expressed its willingness to provide a neutral venue for the proposed public debate between former Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio and Senator Rodante Marcoleta.
In a statement made public Friday, the association said it believes that an “open, reasoned, and respectful exchange of views is essential to an informed citizenry.”
and public access, the group said it could provide professional moderators with expertise on the subject matter and put in place clear debate protocols to ensure fairness, equal time and decorum.
The PBA said the invitation is made in the “spirit of constructive engagement and democratic dialogue.”
Aside from offering a neutral venue suitable for media coverage
“We recognize that the matters concerning the West Philippine Sea carry significant implications. A structured debate—grounded in facts, law, and civility—would meaningfully contribute to national discourse,” the statement read.
Earlier, Carpio told Manila Standard that he is ready to attend a series of debates with the senator, in response to Marcoleta’s proposal for a “freewheeling debate.” Marcoleta has publicly called for a freewheeling debate with Carpio to tackle issues surrounding the West Philippine Sea. He said the discussion should allow both sides to fully present their arguments before the public.
The senator earlier questioned certain positions on the West Philippine Sea, prompting Carpio to accept the challenge. Carpio said among the issues that could be discussed is the legal existence of the West Philippine Sea, which Marcoleta has disputed.
The retired magistrate also suggested that the first debate focus on the country’s claim of sovereignty over islands in the Kalayaan Island Group that are outside its exclusive economic zone.
Asked if he intends to set a date for the debate, Carpio said both sides must first agree on the topic.
Trimester system being considered by DepEd
By Rolando Ng III
THE Department of Education
(DepEd) said it is considering a trimester school calendar system for School Year 2026-2027 as part of its ongoing reforms.
In its latest press release Friday, the agency expressed its intent to reduce class suspensions and increase the number of days devoted to learning.
Under the current calendar, learners are expected to complete required topics in various subjects across four quarters.
The proposed schedule would divide the academic year into three terms of 61 days each to maximize learning.
Instructional and enrichment
blocks would be provided to minimize disruptions in lesson delivery, while holiday celebrations would be integrated into the class schedule to lessen delays.
The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) flagged disruptions caused by natural calamities, which have contributed to 30 percent of learning delays.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara, affirming the findings, said the proposed schedule would streamline learning processes and reduce teachers’ workload.
“We are pushing this to ensure longer, uninterrupted periods of learning, better pacing of lessons, and a lower administrative burden for our teachers,” he said.
PBBM shares Valentine’s message to wife, urges give-and-take
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
marked Valentine’s Day by urging young Filipinos to anchor romantic relationships on friendship, understanding and compromise, drawing from more than 30 years of marriage to Liza Araneta-Marcos.
In a Valentine’s Day vlog answering questions from youth groups, Mr. Marcos said long-lasting relationships are built on mutual give-and-take,
warning against a rigid “my way or no way” mindset that leaves one partner unhappy.
The President said he and the First Lady planned a quiet celebration, valuing rare moments away from work. He also posted a Valentine’s greeting to her, writing: “My forever Valentine, Liza. You are the love of my life, the heart of our home, and the calm in the middle of everything. You make it all make sense. You complete me.”
He cited “Moonlight in Vermont,” sung by Sarah Vaughan, as a song tied to their early dates in New York.
Addressing modern dating trends, including risking friendship for romance, Mr. Marcos said the strongest relationships begin as genuine friendships. He added that traditional courtship remains relevant, though its form has evolved.
“For me, the basis of any good relationship is true friendship. The
best relationships I’ve seen have all started by being friends,” the President said.
He urged the youth to value meaningful connections, make time for one another, and cherish friendships that can grow into lasting love. “Let’s go back to the concept of friendship. That’s what you should try to find. And once you have found it and it’s Valentine’s Day, enjoy it to the fullest. It is a lovely feeling,” he said.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte leads 129 LGBTQIA+ couples in a Valentine’s Day commitment ceremony organized by the city government at the QC MICE Center on Saturday. Manny Palmero
PET DATE. Around 200 pet lovers and their pets join games and activities at the Malabon Zoo’s annual “Valentine Is for Animals Too! Pet Ko, Date Ko!” celebration marking Valentine’s Day. Andrew Rabulan
FOR WOMEN’S RIGHTS. Members of women’s alliance GABRIELA and allied groups hold a mass dance protest and advocacy run during ‘One Billion Rising Philippines 2026’ at UP Diliman on Valentine’s Day, denouncing violence against women and children, corruption, and attacks on women human rights defenders. Edd Castro
Expanded 4PH program strengthens housing drive
THE Marcos administration places housing at the center of its social development agenda, recognizing that decent shelter is essential to building stable families and resilient communities.
Through the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program ensures that every housing unit built contributes to nationbuilding.
Originally launched in 2022, the program gained renewed direction in 2025 under DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling, who expanded its framework to respond more effectively to the country’s diverse housing challenges.
The Expanded 4PH now covers vertical and horizontal housing, rental and incremental housing, community mortgage initiatives, and the accelerated disposition of lands covered by Presidential Proclamations.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has consistently emphasized that housing is not merely about physical structures, but about nurturing families and shaping the nation’s future.
“My fellow Filipinos, a house is not just a structure. It is in the home where character is formed, love grows, and dreams are built. As long as there are Filipinos who aspire to have their own home, the government will not stop working. No one will stop working. No one will be left behind in the New Philippines,” President Marcos said. A cornerstone of the Expanded 4PH is the strengthened Enhanced Community Mortgage Program (ECMP), implemented by the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC). Through this program, organized informal settler communities are empowered to collectively acquire the land they occupy, transforming years of uncertainty into secure tenure. Nationwide, 34 ECMP projects now benefit approximately 7,000 families.
Complementing this initiative is the fast-tracked distribution of certificates of entitlement and lot awards to fami -
lies residing on lands covered by long-standing Presidential Proclamations. For many beneficiaries, this marks the end of decades of waiting and uncertainty. To address urban congestion, high-density housing has been integrated into the Expanded 4PH, focusing on in-city and near-site relocation for families living in danger zones. Rental
housing projects, including pilot initiatives with the University of the Philippines, further expand housing options for workers and informal settlers.
Through sustained publicprivate partnerships and peoplecentered planning, the Expanded 4PH continues to lay firm foundations for a stronger, more inclusive Philippines.
EXPANDED HOUSING. The administration prioritizes housing in its social development agenda through the DHSUD’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program, promoting decent shelter as key to stable families and resilient communities.
DA tightens oversight of warehouses vs. sabotage
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Agriculture (DA)
is tightening oversight of the food supply chain by requiring the mandatory registration of warehouses, cold storage facilities, and other agricultural logistics hubs under the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, backed by stricter enforcement and penalties. Under newly issued Guidelines for the Registry System for Agri Storage, all facilities storing agricultural and fishery products—whether owned, leased, or operated by third parties— must register through the DA Online Registration System.
The requirement covers rice warehouses, onion cold storage facilities, meat freezers, grain silos, refrigerated container vans, and agricultural storage tanks handling both locally sourced and imported products.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the registry will help dismantle smuggling networks, strengthen food safety monitoring, and protect domestic producers.
“We cannot stop smuggling, protect public health, or safeguard our farmers if we do not know where the stocks are. Registration gives government clear visibility over the supply chain so we can move quickly against hoarding, illegal imports, and abusive practices that undermine Filipino producers and harm consumers,” Tiu Laurel said.
The policy requires agri-fishery businesses to keep complete, accurate, and auditable records for at least five years, including disclosure of storage capacity, commodities handled, and inventory levels, along with monthly operational records and quarterly electronic reports submitted to relevant trade regula-
By Joel E. Zurbano and Vito Barcelo
Government agents intercepted a German national carrying P55.3 million worth of shabu hidden inside hollowed-out Bibles at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on Friday.
The foreigner, who arrived on a connecting flight from Addis Ababa, was flagged after an X-ray Inspection Project operator detected unusual images during routine non-intrusive baggage screening. Customs examiners conducted a full physical inspection and uncovered white crystalline substances hidden in a false compartment within the baggage lining and concealed inside two hollowed-out Bible books, wrapped in several layers of plastic and duct tape. The confiscated substances weighed about 8,145 grams, with an estimated street value of P55,386,000. A K9 sweep and field testing confirmed positive results for methamphetamine
tory agencies.
The guidelines also define violations and sanctions. Failure or refusal to present required documents upon lawful demand constitutes a violation, while the inability to produce updated operational reports already submitted to regulators may serve as prima facie evidence of noncompliance.
Crimes involving information and communications technologies, including digital concealment or manipulation of records, may lead to additional criminal charges and, subject to due process, the suspension, revocation, or cancellation of licenses, registrations, and accreditations, including preventive suspension when public safety is at risk.
The digital registry is designed to improve traceability, enhance food safety oversight, and generate reliable data to detect unusual stock
commonly known as shabu. The passenger and the seized items were turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency for
accumulation that may signal price manipulation or artificial shortages.
Registration is separate from, and does not substitute for, licenses or accreditations issued by regulators such as the Bureau of Plant Industry, Bureau of Animal Industry, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, National Meat Inspection Service, Sugar Regulatory Administration, and National Tobacco Administration.
Micro-scale operators, including sari-sari stores, wet market vendors, home-based family enterprises, itinerant peddlers, and certified barangay micro-businesses with assets below P3 million, are exempt under the law’s social justice provisions.
For medium and large operators, registration is now mandatory as authorities shift toward data-driven enforcement and tighter monitoring of agricultural storage operations.
investigation and inquest proceedings for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9165 and Republic Act No. 10863.
Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the seizure exemplifies the bureau’s continuing enforcement efforts at all ports of entry.
“We are enhancing our controls through technology, intelligence, and inter-agency collaboration. Our message is unequivocal—attempts to smuggle illegal drugs into the country will be detected, intercepted, and prosecuted.”
NAIA District Collector Yasmin Obillos-Mapa underscored the vital role of technology in frontline enforcement, saying the interception demonstrated the effectiveness of the X-ray Inspection Project and the bureau’s thorough examination process in detecting concealed contraband and enabling swift enforcement action.
IN BRIEF
Fiestas, Netflix, Eala top FB conversations in Jan.
FAITH, entertainment, sports, and public safety dominated Facebook conversations in the Philippines from Jan. 1 to 30, 2026, according to a social media scan by Capstone-Intel Corporation. Festival content led the rankings, followed by Netflix, tennis star Alex Eala, Mayon Volcano, and health-related discussions.
Posts on faith and local festivals generated the highest engagement score of 924,916.8, with nearly 6,000 posts. Celebrations honoring the Santo Niño, including Sinulog, Dinagyang, and AtiAtihan, drew hundreds of thousands of reactions, comments, and shares. Netflix ranked second with an engagement score of 606,917.1, fueled largely by discussions on “Stranger Things.”
Users shared quotes, clips, and streaming updates, generating strong interaction across posts.
Tennis standout Alex Eala followed with an engagement score of 428,259.6, driven by updates on her international tournaments and highprofile matches. Sports fans closely tracked her performances and milestones. Rex Espiritu
Lawmaker files bill to bring RTC to Polangui, Albay
A FIRST-TERM legislator has filed a bill seeking to establish a Regional Trial Court branch in Polangui, Albay, bringing court services closer to nearly 90,000 residents who currently travel to Ligao City for hearings. House Bill 7615, authored by Rep. Raymond Adrian Salceda, proposes amending the Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980 to create an additional RTC branch in the Fifth Judicial Region to be stationed in Polangui.
The Supreme Court would assign the branch number and jurisdiction.
Salceda said Polangui, the most populous town in Albay’s Third District, lacks its own RTC despite covering 44 barangays. He noted that residents face added costs and inconvenience traveling to Ligao City. At present, Polangui falls under RTC Branch 13 in Ligao, which also serves several other towns with a combined population of over 300,000, contributing to court congestion.
The bill provides for the appointment of a judge, hiring of court staff, and construction of facilities in coordination with the local government. Maricel V. Cruz
Gov. Baricuatro advances comprehensive healthcare
CEBU Governor Pamela Baricuatro is strengthening the province’s healthcare system to ensure accessible and compassionate services, especially in remote communities. She said no Cebuano should be left behind when it comes to health care.
The provincial government is upgrading district hospitals and rural health units by improving equipment, expanding services, and supporting frontline health workers. The goal is to reduce the need for patients to travel far for treatment.
Efforts also focus on expanding access to affordable medicines, maternal and child care, and mental health services, areas that saw rising demand after the COVID-19 pandemic. Programs now emphasize prevention and early detection. Minerva Newman
“Duterte and his co-perpetrators shared a common plan or agreement to ‘neutralize’ alleged criminals in the Philippines (including those perceived or alleged to be associated with drug use, sale or production) through violent crimes including murder,” the prosecution document read.
Dela Rosa, the former national police chief and enforcer of Duterte’s drug war, has previously said he believed he faced potential arrest and has not been seen publicly in months.
Go, re-elected in May in a landslide victory, was a key ally of Duterte both during the latter’s term as mayor of southern Davao City and while president.
In an interview with Manila Standard, ICC assistant to counsel Kristina Conti said they may be possible subjects of warrants that the prosecutor may apply for.
“If they are determined to be among those ‘most responsible’ for crimes against humanity, [the] court will issue warrants,” Conti said. With AFP
“I find it hilarious,” Aguirre said in a Bilyonaryo News Channel interview when asked about being named in the case.
He denied any participation in the alleged extrajudicial killings, saying he merely served as a lawyer and later as Justice secretary from 2016 to April 2018.
He also rejected claims he should be held accountable for killings linked to the anti-drug campaign during his tenure at the DOJ, saying the department does not implement criminal law enforcement operations.
Another named co-perpetrator, Senator Bato dela Rosa, has been absent from public view, including Senate sessions, since last November amid reports of an ICC arrest warrant against him.
For his part, Senate President Pro Tempore Ping Lacson said the Senate is set to discuss potential courses of action, including what assistance, if any, should be extended to Dela Rosa and Go.
He said the Senate leadership may call a caucus to consult with the senators, but admitted that for now, it is still too early to tell because the ICC has not issued a bill of particulars indicating the charges and penalties Dela Rosa and Go may face.
of the over 3 million projected 4Ps beneficiaries.
Mr. Marcos noted that previous requirements discouraged enrollment.
“You are already poor, and you still have to prove that you are poor,” he said in Filipino, referring to earlier documentation requirements.
Under the revised policy, 4Ps households consuming 50 kilowatthours or less per month will receive a 100 percent discount on electricity bills.
Households within the poverty threshold but not covered by 4Ps may still apply if their consumption remains low.
President Marcos also announced reforms to simplify the Net-Metering Program under Republic Act No. 9513, allowing households and businesses to sell excess power from renewable energy systems back to the grid.
Budget impasse shuts down
US Homeland Security dep’t
WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security entered a partial shutdown Saturday as US lawmakers fight over funding the agency overseeing much of President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown.
Thousands of government workers, from airport security agents to disaster relief officials, will either be furloughed or forced to work without pay until funding is agreed upon by Congress.
At the center of the budget dispute is the department’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), whose agents killed two US citizens amid sweeping raids and mass protests in Minneapolis. Democrats oppose any new funding for DHS until major changes are implemented over how ICE
conducts its operations.
In particular, they have demanded curtailed patrols, a ban on ICE agents wearing face masks during operations and the requirement that they obtain a judicial warrant to enter private property.
“Donald Trump and Republicans have decided that they have zero interest in getting ICE under control,” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Friday.
“Dramatic changes are needed,” Jeffries told a news conference. “Absent that, Republicans have decided to shut down parts of the federal government.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt put the blame on the opposition, telling Fox News that “Democrats are barreling our government towards another shutdown for political and partisan reasons.”
But while DHS faces a shutdown, ICE itself will remain operational, under funds approved in last year’s government spending bill.
Senator John Fetterman pushed against his fellow Democrats, saying: “This shutdown literally has zero impact on ICE.”
The primary impact would land on other agencies, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which oversees emergency
TikTok creator ByteDance goes all-in on fast-evolving AI arena
BEIJING – After soaring to global attention with its hugely popular TikTok app, Chinese tech giant ByteDance is now positioning itself as a major player in the fast-evolving AI arena.
While the Beijing-based company has been embroiled in a range of legal and privacy rows linked to the social media app for years, its team has been busy branching out developing new cutting-edge products.
Among them is China’s most popular artificial intelligence chatbot, Doubao, which has built up more than 100 million daily users since its inception in 2023.
That makes it one of the world’s largest processors of AI queries, alongside OpenAI and Google.
Meanwhile, the cinematic clips created by its latest video generator, Seedance 2.0, have further raised the company’s international profile.
But like TikTok, ByteDance’s AI services could face trouble in overseas
we are,” Mr. Marcos said, adding that cooperation at the community level can strengthen mutual understanding even amid geopolitical challenges.
For his part, Ambassador Jing underscored the importance of neighborly ties.
“As neighbors, we should always respect each other, learn from each other, and help each other, but not hurt each other,” Jing said, express-
“First of all, the Chinese Embassy and Chinese diplomats are the official representatives of China and the Chinese government. We are not in the Philippines to be your guests…Second, freedom of speech doesn’t mean you are free to attack China but we don’t have the right to defend ourselves,” Li said.
“Third, using language such as ‘dictatorship’ to characterize China and labeling Chinese diplomats as ‘wolf
markets owing to issues from data privacy to fierce competition in the sector.
Since OpenAI’s ChatGPT revealed the powers of AI on its 2022 debut, ByteDance has believed the technology “would become an even more important application than web search”, CEO Liang Rubo said last month.
“ByteDance’s shift reflects a deliberate evolution from social media toward an AI- native model,” Charlie Dai, vicepresident and principal analyst at Forrester, told AFP.
Regulatory and political pressure on ByteDance’s enormously popular video-sharing app TikTok has fueled the pivot, he said.
This month, the European Commission said TikTok’s “addictive features” breached online content rules and told it to change its design or face a fine amounting to up to six percent of ByteDance’s annual global revenue.
The United States had threatened
ing hope that exchanges between the two countries would continue to grow despite political differences. The project builds on earlier work, including the restoration and illumination of Jones Bridge, and features new lighting installations and cultural presentations along Ongpin and Escolta streets, designed to draw visitors and enliven the city’s urban core.
Jing also thanked President Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos for what he described as their “personal care and support” in reviving Binondo,
warriors’ are rude and disrespectful. Such words are unbecoming of an elected official and not helpful to your public image…Fourth, when you talk about ‘limit’ to diplomatic immunity or kick someone out, are you trying to threaten the Chinese Embassy again? Before you play this old trick have you ever asked yourself if you have such authority?” he added.
For his part, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson has expressed his openness to facilitating a dialogue between the Senate and the Chinese
response to natural disasters.
The Transportation Security Administration, which runs airport safety, warned on X that a prolonged shutdown could result in longer wait times and cancelled flights.
The shutdown would be the third of Trump’s second term, including a record 43-day government closure last October and November.
The government just reopened from a smaller, four-day partial shutdown earlier this month, also over DHS funding.
Even if all 53 Republican senators vote to fund DHS, Senate rules require support from 60 of the body’s 100 members to advance the budget bill, meaning several Democrats would need to get on board.
In response to the Democrats’ demands, the White House said it was ready to negotiate over immigration enforcement policy.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune called it “an extremely serious offer,” but warned Democrats are “never going to get their full wish list.”
Some concessions were made during the previous shutdown amid Democratic pressure and national outcry after federal agents shot and killed Renee Good, a mother of three, and Alex Pretti, a nurse who worked with military veterans, in Minneapolis last month. AFP
TikTok with a total ban over concerns the platform could be used to harvest Americans’ data or spread propaganda.
After lengthy top-level talks over a TikTok divestiture deal, a majorityAmerican-owned joint venture was established in January to operate the app’s US business, with ByteDance retaining a stake of less than 20 percent. Rocky Lee, who uses TikTok and other sites to sell Chinese digital gadgets and pet products to buyers overseas, was relieved by the US deal.
“I can now tell other traders that ‘you can go ahead and don’t have to worry about it anymore’,” Lee, who runs a chat group for cross-border sellers, told AFP. Lee uses Doubao and other AI tools for various tasks including product selection, market research and sales script-writing.
“We used to have more than a dozen people in our team. Now I reckon maybe four to five people are sufficient,” the veteran seller from Xi’an said. AFP
calling the district a living symbol of Filipino-Chinese heritage and longstanding ties between the two peoples. He said a recent visit to the area impressed him with the “diligence and perseverance of generations of Chinese-Filipinos.”
Jing also announced new direct flights from China’s Fujian province to Cebu starting March 29, with plans to add more Manila-Fujian services, reinforcing travel links following the Philippines’ 14-day visa-free policy for Chinese citizens.
Embassy. Lacson said he will propose to Senate President Vicente Sotto III to invite Chinese diplomats to a meeting or a dialogue.
“To me, that’s a good opening we should consider, and we should grab the opportunity to initiate such talks. We can meet at the Senate, or the embassy grounds, or a neutral area. It would be good to sit down and discuss what needs to be discussed. After all, we have diplomatic ties with China. We even have a One China Policy,” Lacson said.
Japan releases arrested Chinese fishing boat captain—media
TOKYO – Japan released a Chinese fishing boat captain on Friday night, one day after his arrest, local media reported.
Japan’s fisheries agency seized the boat, later saying the captain had refused to comply with an order to stop for an inspection.
China swiftly reacted, calling for Japan to respect the safety and rights of the Chinese crew.
The agency’s first seizure of a Chinese vessel since 2022 comes three months after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi ignited a diplomatic row over Taiwan.
Just weeks into her term, Takaichi said Japan would intervene militarily if Beijing sought to take the self-ruled island by force.
In response, Beijing summoned Tokyo’s ambassador, warned Chinese citizens against visiting Japan and conducted joint air drills with Russia. China also tightened controls on exports to Japan for items with potential military uses, fueling worries that Beijing may choke supplies of vital rare-earth minerals. AFP
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said the funds would be released immediately to local governments. In his order, President Marcos cited the “displacement of a significant number of people, casualties and damage to infrastructure” caused by recent weather disturbances. The Office of Civil Defense has reported at least 12 deaths in the aftermath of “Basyang.”
to support LGUs and their constituents,” Recto said.
1LIFE Inc. president Niño Namoco received recognition at the 5th Mansmith Innovation Awards, joining business leaders celebrated for transformative work in healthcare, health technology, retail, digital commerce, culinary arts, and media.
“1Life’s achievements result from collective effort. Every milestone reflects the sacrifices and dedication of my co-founders. We asked ourselves: ‘What is the value of innovation if it does not reach the people who need it most?’ That question became our mission. That mission became 1Life,” he said.
The awards, founded by entrepreneur Josiah Go, were presented on January 21 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City. Twelve leaders were honored for creativity, vision, and lasting impact, including four executives recognized for innovations that drive industry growth.
Under Namoco, 1Life has deployed AI to expand access to early detection and preventive care nationwide. In two years, the company has served over one million patients across all 81 provinces and 1,335 cities and municipalities, reaching 18,181 localities through daily medical runs with multidisciplinary teams.
1Life integrates communitybased care, advanced diagnostics, and AI-driven workflows.
Innovations like the 1Life Digital Community Healthcare System,
portable diagnostic devices, DocMate AI, and the 1Life Health app turn multi-day journeys into a single efficient visit. The company also partners with PhilHealth, the Department of Education, local governments, and other agencies to support barangay health systems.
“Healthcare should not be a privilege. It shouldn’t depend on your zip code, income, or connections. We innovate for the last mile, for underserved communities often overlooked because they are not always profitable,” Namoco said.
The 2026 Mansmith Awards, presented by Mansmith and Fielders, Inc., honor innovation, entrepreneurship, and long-term impact. This year, the program added the Mansmith Entrepreneur Awards and CEO Lifetime Achievement Awards to recognize leaders who demonstrate sustainable growth and visionary leadership.
Maxim enhances driver and passenger protection through Bethel Insurance
MAXIM Rides & Food Delivery has partnered with Bethel General Insurance and Surety Corporation to provide enhanced personal accident insurance coverage for its driver-partners and passengers, reinforcing the company’s commitment to safety and welfare across the Philippines. Under the agreement, Maxim fully covers the insurance cost for its motorcycle driver-partners, offering personal accident protection at no additional expense. For car driver-partners, Maxim subsidizes approximately 20 percent of the insurance cost, lowering expenses while still providing essential coverage. The insurance includes medical expenses for injuries, as well as compensation and burial assistance in the event of death for both drivers and passengers. Claims can be filed through the Maxim office, where managers guide driver-partners through the necessary documentation and submission process.
The partnership allows Maxim’s driver-partners to obtain insurance with minimal effort, providing peace of mind while they focus on their
CAMPOS,
Philip Morris charts smoke-free future with PH at the center
work. Since implementation, many drivers have successfully enrolled, demonstrating the positive impact of the collaboration on driver and passenger safety.
“This partnership with Bethel General Insurance allows us to provide our driver-partners and passengers with added protection. By making insurance more accessible and covering a significant portion of the cost, we are reaffirming our commitment to the welfare of the people who rely on Maxim every day,” said Maxim Rides & Food Delivery president Andres Morales Jr.
HILIP Morris International (PMI) has made a bold promise: a world where combustible cigarettes are no longer the default.
The Philippines, with its skilled workforce, improving infrastructure, and openness to innovation, is not just along for the ride—it’s central to making that vision real.
Vassilis Gkatzelis, president of PMI’s East and Southeast Asia, Pacific,and global travel retail region, laid it out plainly during his visit to PMFTC, Inc., the company’s Philippine affiliate.
“Our mission is to accelerate the decline of smoking,” Gkatzelis said.
“We’re focused on adult smokers, giving them alternatives that are scientifically substantiated and actually less harmful. We dream of the day when cigarettes won’t be necessary— not because we stop making them tomorrow, but because adult smokers will have viable, safer choices,” he said.
Already, smoke-free products account for more than 40 percent of PMI’s global revenue, and the company is aiming for roughly twothirds by 2030.
PH as a hub
For PMI, the country is not just a market fo rits products, it is a hub for production, innovation, and regional supply. PMI has invested over $2 billion in the Philippines since 2010, expanding two manufacturing facilities, developing smoke-free products, and building digital capabilities. PMFTC employs over 5,000 people and exports to more than 10 regional markets.
“The Philippines is really a perfect fit for what we’re doing. It serves the local market and beyond. The talent here, the infrastructure, the openness to innovation— it all allows us to grow our smoke-free portfolio. And that’s exactly what we’re doing,” Gkatzelis said.
PMFTC’s Tanauan, Batangas facility is expanding further, with around $71 million set aside through 2027 to meet rising
demand locally and abroad.
Despite being known for producing leisure products, PMI is steadily reshaping its portfolio toward reduced-risk alternatives. Heated tobacco products and nicotine pouches eliminate combustion - the main cause of smoking-related diseases. Nicotine is still addictive, but it is not the main driver of harm.
“These products are designed for adult smokers who would otherwise keep smoking,” Gkatzelis said. “If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you smoke, quit. But if quitting isn’t an option, switching to a smoke-free alternative is a real step forward. Science and technology have given us tools that didn’t exist even 20 years ago, and we can use them to make a positive difference in public health.”
Adoption in the Philippines has been growing steadily since IQOS launched in 2020 and ZYN nicotine pouches in 2023. Globally, over 43 million adults now use PMI’s smokefree products.
Execution on the ground
Making this strategy work in practice falls to Zhenya Ivanov, president of PMFTC.
“Our network of more than 400,000 retailers is crucial. It’s not just about getting products on shelves. It’s about making sure adult smokers have access to the right information and alternatives they can trust. That connection is what allows this transformation to really take hold,” he said. Ivanov also highlighted the Philippines’ talent pool, describing the people here as skilled, dedicated, and creative.
“From the factory floor to marketing and digital teams, they are helping drive the smoke-free transition not just locally, but across the region. That’s why the Philippines is more than a market—it’s a hub for PMI’s broader ambitions,” he said.
Transitioning responsibly
Gkatzelis emphasized that the move away from cigarettes must be careful and deliberate.
“If we stopped selling cigarettes overnight, people would just turn to competitors. And the real goal is to stay engaged and give adult smokers a safer option. That’s the responsible way to make this shift,” he explained.
“Keeping cigarettes available while expanding access to smoke-free products allows us to guide smokers toward better choices. It’s a balance, but it works,” Ivanov added.
Both executives see the Philippines as a model for how investment, education, and access can help adult smokers transition away from cigarettes.
“We’re working with partners to accelerate the decline of smoking and provide better alternatives. From our retailers to our workforce, everyone here is part of this transformation. The Philippines is showing how local expertise and investment can make a global impact,” Ivanov said.
Othel V. Campos
power source, joined Kuryente.org and Partners for Affordable and Reliable Energy (PARE) to convene a Nuclear Energy Forum at the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI). The forum opened discussions on nuclear power as the Philippines faces rising electricity costs, fuel insecurity, and growing demand, providing a platform for
Pangasinan 2nd District Representative Mark Cojuangco, a
time nuclear advocate and principal author of the
Regulatory Authority (PhilAtom) Bill, and PNRI director Carlo Arcilla led the discussion, framing it around policy, science, and practical energy realities.
“Nuclear energy has one of the smallest land footprints and longest
Alpas Pinas, Kuryente.org, and PARE host Nuclear Energy Forum amid rising power costs lifespans among all energy sources, while producing no greenhouse gas emissions during operation. It is also the most studied and regulated energy technology worldwide,” Arcilla said, highlighting PNRI’s Subcritical Assembly for Training, Education, and Research (SATER) reactor as an example of safe nuclear research in the Philippines. Cojuangco emphasized electricity affordability, noting that Filipino households spend about 10 percent of their
PMI president of the East and Southeast Asia, Pacific and global travel retail region Vassilis Gkatzelis (left) and PMFTC president Zhenya Ivanov (right) elucidate the significance of shifting habits toward better alternatives.
B2 | FEBUARY 15, 2026
MILO RIVERA, Issue Editor
email: medarlo.e.rivera@gmail.com
Three decades of the Honda City celebrated with ‘30th Anniversary Pearl Edition’
DURING the launch of the new CR-V at the Glorietta Palm Drive Activity Center last February 7, 2026, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) surprised attendees by unveiling a special tribute to one of its most iconic nameplates.
To celebrate 30 years of the Honda City in the Philippines, HCPI officially introduced the 30th Anniversary Pearl Edition variants for both the City sedan and the City Hatchback. Since its local debut in 1996, the Honda City has become a cornerstone of Filipino motoring, moving over 150,000 units across five generations. This new edition honors that legacy with a “blacked-out” aesthetic and premium paintwork. The anniversary treatment begins with the City 1.5 S CVT Honda SENSING. Priced at P1,039,000, this variant receives a stealthy makeover designed to contrast with its exclusive Platinum White Pearl body. Key exterior upgrades include:
• Blacked-out details: Door mirrors, outer handles, and the front grille.
• Wheels: Specially finished black alloy wheels.
• Signature: A dedicated 30th Anniversary Pearl Edition emblem to denote its limited status. Despite the entry-level price point, this edition retains the 1.5L i-VTEC engine and the full Honda SENSING safety suite, maintaining the model’s reputation for highvalue safety and performance.
For those preferring a more aggressive silhouette, the City Hatchback 1.5 RS CVT 30th Anniversary Pearl Edition was also launched at P1,279,000. This variant leans heavily into its “RS” (Road Sailing) heritage with an extensive accessory package, including:
Aerodynamic Enhancements: Front under spoilers, a tailgate spoiler garnish, and a rear under spoiler. R efined Trims: Front center and fog garnishes, plus an extended rear bumper. Black Br anding: Exclusive black Honda badges and City emblems.
The Hatchback remains a segment leader, celebrated for its “Ultra Seats” versatility and the same potent 1.5L engine that has earned it multiple performance and design awards since 2021.
HCPI reiterated that both anniversary models would be finished exclusively in Platinum White Pearl. Typically a premium color choice that commands a surcharge, the Pearl Edition allows customers to own this high-end finish at a more accessible price point than if purchased as a standalone option on other variants.
ON THE ROAD
FOR the average Filipino motorist, a vehicle is rarely a temporary asset. Whether it is a decade-old family heirloom or a high-mileage daily commuter, cars in the Philippines are often driven long after their warranties expire. This culture of long-term ownership has placed a renewed focus on vehicle maintenance, specifically the critical distinction between original, OEM, and substandard replacement parts. As vehicles age, the integrity of individual components becomes the deciding factor in road safety and engine longevity. Industry experts note that while counterfeit or “budget” parts may appear identical to factory equipment, they often lack the internal engineering required to withstand the rigors of local driving conditions, such as heavy stop-and-go traffic and extreme tropical heat. The OEM Standard
To bridge the gap between expensive “genuine” dealership parts and risky third-party imitations, many motorists are turning to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). Companies like AISIN, which manufacture components for brand-new vehicles straight from the factory line, offer aftermarket
versions produced with the same materials and quality controls. Choosing OEM-grade parts ensures that the replacement component meets the exact specifications intended by the vehicle’s original designers—a factor that becomes increasingly vital as a car’s secondary systems begin to wear.
Critical Systems to Monitor
For those maintaining older vehicles, several highwear components require regular inspection to avoid catastrophic failure:
• Braking and Drivability: Components such as brake pads (specifically under the ADVICS line) and clutch systems are the primary safety interfaces. Reliability here is not just about performance but about minimizing noise, vibration, and uneven wear that can lead to longer stopping distances.
• Thermal Management: In the Philippine climate, the water pump and fan motor are the heart of the engine’s cooling system. Overheating remains a leading cause of engine seizure in older cars. Using parts with durable mechanical seals and stable motor speeds is essential to prevent leaks and cooling failure during peak traffic hours.
• Engine Protection: Beyond hardware, the use of certified lubricants is the first line of defense against internal friction. High-mileage engines require oils that meet API-authorized standards to manage heat and protect against corrosion. Avoiding the ‘Too Good to Be True”’Trap
The proliferation of substandard parts in the local market remains a challenge for safety advocates. Motorists are encouraged to exercise caution with deals that seem significantly lower than market rates.
To ensure vehicle roadworthiness, experts recommend purchasing only from authorized sellers and verifying the security labels on packaging. For Filipino families, the goal remains clear: ensuring that every journey—whether a daily commute or a weekend getaway—is supported by parts engineered for the long haul.
Honda announces February sales promos HONDA Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) has officially announced the extension of its “Your Best
for P1,799,000, is currently available with a P100,000 discount. Other models, including the Civic, CR-V, and City Hatchback, also carry substantial special offers throughout the month. A free 1-Year Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) or an additional P15,000
GEELY Philippines has confirmed that it is bringing in a new plug-in hybrid model into the country – EX5 EM-I – set to arrive within the first quarter of the year as part of the brand’s expanding electrified lineup.
Anticipation for the model reached a fever pitch recently after units of the EX5 EM-I, still clad in camouflage, were spotted at local ports and customs areas. While Geely has yet to formally unveil the model locally, the sightings have fueled anticipation for what is expected to be the brand’s next major electrified offering for urban and suburban drivers.
Based on information from other markets where the model—or its equivalent—has already been introduced, the EX5 EM-I is positioned as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) designed to balance electric driving capability with extended range flexibility. In global markets, the model is reported
the Kia Carnival SX Diesel leads the list of marked down models, offered with a massive P370,000 discount. Known for its dual power sliding doors, leather-appointed seating, and expansive cabin, the Carnival remains a gold standard for small families who prioritize comfort and togetherness on long provincial drives or daily
to feature a combination of electric-only driving for daily commutes and a hybrid system suited for longer trips, addressing common concerns around charging access and range limitations.
This positioning places the EX5 EM-I in direct consideration alongside other plug-in hybrid models currently competing in the compact-tomidsize, electrified segment, where buyers are increasingly looking for alternatives that offer both fuel efficiency and adaptability to unpredictable driving conditions.
The Philippine introduction of the EX5 EM-I forms part of Geely’s broader product roadmap following its transition to direct local operations. The company has indicated that additional new models across various segments and powertrain types are in the pipeline as it continues to strengthen its presence in the country.
RANDY M. CALUAG, Issue Editor
Filipina netters Madis,
Aludo take next leap
2 Filipino skiers hit slopes at Milano–Cortina 2026
By Peter Atencio
FROM sunbaked provincial courts in Mindanao to the storied tennis complex of Honolulu, Tennielle Madis’ journey has taken a de ning turn—one shaped by grit, quiet belief, and years of relentless competition.
Madis, an 18-year-old standout from M’lang, North Cotabato, is set to don the colors of the University of Hawaii at Mānoa women’s tennis team, ful lling a long-held dream of competing at the highest level of U.S. collegiate sport. Joining her is Philippine national team doubles partner Ste Aludo, as the two Filipinas commit to the program famously known as the Rainbow Wahine.
“For me, signing with the University of Hawaii is a milestone in my life,” Madis said, her words carrying the weight of years spent chasing opportunity far from the spotlight.
The breakthrough came after Rainbow Wahine head coach Jun Hernandez carefully tracked the duo’s rise across national and international junior tournaments. What he saw was not just talent, but composure—players forged in pressure, capable of thriving on bigger stages.
Madis’ ascent has been anything but ordinary.
A mainstay among the ranked players of the Philippine women’s national team, she made her WTA 125 debut at the Philippine Women’s Open after earning a coveted wildcard entry—an early glimpse of her readiness to test herself against seasoned professionals.
Madis and Aludo with Alex Eala and members of the Philippine national women’s tennis team
Alongside Aludo, she also claimed the doubles title, underscoring a partnership built on chemistry and shared ambition. That bond shone brightest on the regional stage. At the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, Madis and Aludo delivered for the Philippines, securing bronze medals in both the doubles and team events— performances that resonated beyond the medal tally and caught the attention of international scouts.
Aludo, 17, hailing from Trento, Agusan del Sur, has charted her own meteoric rise. Recently, she announced her arrival on the pro scene with a
By Alona Cochon
TWO Filipino brothers carry the Philippines with them every time they step onto the hockey pitch.
Through grit, sacrifice, and an unbreakable bond, Kyle and Clayton Lanting have transformed passion into purpose—proving that even far from home, the Filipino spirit can rise, compete, and earn respect on the international stage.
That journey of quiet perseverance and hard-won excellence was formally acknowledged on February 6, 2026, when the brothers were honored during a courtesy visit to the Philippine Embassy in Rome.
Philippine Ambassador to Italy Nathaniel Imperial recognized the Lantings for their discipline, dedication, and continuing contributions to Philippine hockey—both in Europe’s competitive leagues and in regional international competitions.
For Kyle Lanting, the recognition was another meaningful chapter in a career de ned by steady growth and national service. The 28-year-old native of Tanauan, Batangas, first donned Philippine colors at the Southeast
Asian Games in 2019, a moment he describes as unforgettable.
“Napaka-memorable po sa akin ang 2019 SEA Games,” Kyle shared. “Ang makapag-represent ng ating
bansa ay isang karangalan at isang responsibilidad.”
That sense of responsibility became a driving force after the Games. Kyle committed himself to improving at the
commanding 6-1, 6-0 victory over Angeline Alcala in the qualifying rounds of the Philippine Women’s Open, a statement win that echoed her growing con dence.
Philippine national team coach Robert Angelo confirmed the historic move in an interview with Manila Standard.
“Tennie and Ste are going to the University of Hawaii,” Angelo said. “This is a big step—not just for them, but for Philippine tennis.”
Both players are expected to suit up for the Rainbow Wahine next season, competing in NCAA Division I under the Big West Conference.
Lanting brothers carry PH pride across borders
highest level, fully aware that being a national team player meant constant learning and embracing sacri ces— whether in indoor or outdoor hockey.
His career in Italy reflects that mindset. From youth competitions, Kyle methodically climbed the eld hockey ladder—earning promotions from Serie B to Serie A2, then Serie A1, and eventually reaching Serie A Élite. Along the way, he celebrated podium finishes and strong national cup performances, establishing himself as a reliable presence in one of Europe’s demanding hockey systems.
In indoor hockey, Kyle’s journey was equally impressive. While continuing to represent the Philippines internationally, he rose through the Italian ranks with Lazio Hockey Giovani, culminating in a second-place nish in Serie A1 in 2026. His story stands as a testament to what consistency, adaptability, and belief can achieve for a Filipino athlete abroad.
Despite his accomplishments, Kyle remains grounded—especially when speaking to the next generation.
“Huwag kayong matakot subukan ang hockey,” he said. “Lahat naman tayo nagsimula sa umpisa.”
El Presidente Golf Cup returns to support youth and sports development
GOLF enthusiasts will once again tee o for a greater cause as the 3rd El Presidente Cup: The Ramon S. Fernandez Charity Golf Tournament 2026 takes center stage on April 24, 2026, at The Orchard Golf & Country Club’s Palmer Course.
More than just a competitive day on the fairways, the annual charity tournament aims to generate support for the Ramon S. Fernandez Sports and Youth Development Foundation Inc., an organization committed to empowering young Filipinos by providing opportunities through sports, education, and characterbuilding programs. Participants will compete in a System 36 format, with an 8:00 a.m. shotgun start, ensuring an engaging and fast-paced tournament experience for players of varying skill levels. Organizers expect a strong turnout of golfers, partners, and advocates who share a common goal: using sport as
a platform to inspire hope and create meaningful impact. Proceeds from the event will directly fund the foundation’s initiatives, which focus on youth development, grassroots sports programs, and leadership formation—helping nurture the next generation of athletes and community leaders.
Beyond the competition, players can look forward to a full day of fellowship and generosity, highlighted by meals, giveaways, raffle prizes, and trophies to be awarded to the tournament’s top performers. The event also serves as a gathering point for supporters, friends, and families united by a shared commitment to service and social responsibility.
Organizers emphasized that the El Presidente Cup is not merely about winning trophies, but about “playing with heart”—where every swing contributes to a larger mission of
The program, currently in the thick of its 2026 spring campaign, plays its home matches at the UH Tennis Complex—a world away from where Madis and Aludo rst learned to chase yellow balls across cracked concrete courts. Under Hernandez, the Rainbow Wahine have captured Big West titles in 2018, 2019, and 2023. With the arrival of two battle-tested Filipinas, the next chapter promises not just wins, but stories—of distance crossed, dreams earned, and a new generation of Philippine tennis players daring to compete on a global stage.
FILIPINO chess prodigy Asher Judd Sy claimed the top prize in the FIDE-Rated Category of the 3rd King’s College Bangkok Chess Championship on Sunday, cementing his status as one of the region’s rising young talents. The 14-year-old Grade 8 student from Life Academy International scored 5.5 points in a six-round Swiss-system tournament, which employed a rapid time control of 15 minutes plus a five-second increment per move.
Asher recorded five consecutive victories against opponents from Thailand and Russia, including Arthicha Kijkamjai, Petr An Volkov, Gunn Daniel Wutti-Udomlert, Nakorn Nakthip, and Pavatt Uapongkitikul, before drawing his nal game with Thailand’s Gavin Siridanupath.
“I am very happy to have won this tournament and very thankful to all who supported me nancially and emotionally,” Asher said after the event. The tournament, organized by Red Knight Chess and hosted at King’s College International School Bangkok, attracted 275 participants from more than 50 schools. This year marked the debut of the FIDE-Rated Category, alongside traditional age-group divisions ranging from Under-7 to Under-18. Asher credited his preparation and guidance to Jason Rojo, his coach at Life Academy International, noting that disciplined practice and strategic focus were key to his success.
Tennielle Madis (left) and Steffi Aludo
Just months earlier, she stamped her authority on the junior circuit, capturing the girls’ singles crown in an ITF J30 tournament in Manila at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center.
El Presidente Golf Cup 2 promises to be another fun- lled, meaningful golf event by basketball legend Ramon Fernandez.
(From left) Kyle Lanting, Clayton, Ambassador Nathaniel Imperial and Team Captain of Phil.Hockey 5S Agostino Teofilo Alfieri during a Courtesy Visit at the Philippine Embassy in Rome.
OR many years, the idea that pets could experience depression was dismissed as humans projecting their own emotions onto animals. Today, veterinarians and animal behavior experts recognize that pets are emotional beings capable of experiencing mood changes that closely resemble depression.
Do pets get depressed? Understanding emotional health in animals
Dogs and cats, in particular, are sensitive to changes in their environment, social relationships, and daily routines. Understanding whether pets get depressed, what causes it, and how owners can help is essential for supporting their overall well-being.
Depression in pets does not always look the same as it does in humans, but it often shows up as noticeable changes in behavior. According to the article Can My Pet Get Depressed? by the Riverbank Animal Hospital team, pets can experience emotional distress that affects their appetite, energy levels, and interest in activities they once enjoyed. Veterinarians emphasize that these changes are not simply signs of laziness or aging, but potential indicators of a deeper emotional issue.
One of the most common triggers of depression in pets is a major life change. Pets thrive on routine and familiarity, so disruptions can have a strong emotional impact. Moving to a new home, the loss of a family member or another pet, or even changes in an owner’s work schedule can cause stress and sadness. Dogs, in particular, are highly social animals. According to the article Dog Depression: Symptoms and How To Help Your Dog by the PetMD editorial team, dogs may become withdrawn or anxious when they lose a companion or experience a sudden change in daily interaction with their owners. Cats, though often viewed as independent, are also susceptible to depression. In the article Is Cat Depression Real? by the PetMD staff, experts ex plain that cats form strong emotional bonds with their owners and environments. When those bonds are disrupted, cats
may respond by hiding more often, vocalizing excessively, or losing interest in play. These behaviors are sometimes misunderstood as stubbornness, but they may be signs of emotional distress.
Recognizing the symptoms of depression in pets can be challenging because animals cannot communicate their feelings verbally.
Symptoms
However, there are several common warning signs:
1. Changes in appetite are among the most noticeable indicators. A pet that suddenly eats much less or refuses food altogether may be struggling emotionally.
2. Lethargy is another frequent symptom. Pets that once greeted their owners enthusiastically or eagerly played may begin sleeping excessively or avoiding interaction.
3. Behavioral changes can also point to depression. According to the Riverbank Animal Hospital article Can My Pet Get Depressed?, pets may become unusually clingy or, conversely, distant and uninterested in attention.
4. Dogs might stop responding to commands they previously followed, while cats may stop grooming themselves, leading to a dull or unkempt coat.
5. In some cases, pets may develop destructive behavior, such as chewing furniture or scratching excessively, as a way of coping with emotional discomfort. It is important to note that depression-like symptoms can sometimes be caused by underlying medical conditions. Pain, illness, or hormonal imbalances can mimic emotional distress. The PetMD article
Dog Depression: Symptoms and How To Help
Your Dog stresses the importance of ruling out physical health issues before assuming a pet is
depressed. A veterinary checkup is a critical first step when any sudden behavioral change occurs.
Once medical causes are excluded, addressing a pet’s emotional needs becomes the focus.
Ways to address this concern
Here are some ways to help your pet:
1. One of the most effective ways to help a depressed pet is by restoring routine and providing consistent interaction. Regular feeding times, walks, play sessions, and quiet companionship can help pets feel secure.
2. Dogs often benefit from increased physical activity and mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys or training exercises. These activities help redirect their focus and rebuild confidence.
3. Cats may require a slightly different approach. According to the article Is Cat Depression Real? by the PetMD editorial team, enriching a cat’s environment can make a significant difference. Adding vertical spaces like cat trees, rotating toys to maintain novelty, and creating quiet areas where cats can retreat without feeling isolated can help improve their mood. Gentle play sessions using interactive toys can also encourage engagement without overwhelming them.
4. Social connection plays a vital role in emotional recovery for pets. Spending quality time with a pet, even through simple activities like sitting together or gentle petting, reinforces the bond and provides reassurance.
5. For pets grieving the loss of another animal, gradual socialization and patience are key. The Riverbank Animal Hospital team notes in Can My Pet Get Depressed? that some pets benefit from the companionship of another animal, while oth-
What pet owners should know about oregano
By Niko Gabriel Salgado
OREGANO is a popular herb in many kitchens, it has a strong aroma and various potential health benefits in humans. But when it comes to pets, especially dogs and cats, benefits depend on the form, the amount, and the species.
Oregano and Dogs
For dogs, small amounts of fresh or dried oregano are generally considered non-toxic. If your dog sneaks a bite of food seasoned lightly with oregano, there is usually no cause for alarm. In fact, oregano contains antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds that have been studied for potential benefits. However, dogs do not process herbs the same way humans do. Their digestive systems are more sensitive, and oregano’s strong oils can cause problems when consumed in larger quantities.
“In dogs, oregano is not poisonous, but it should never be treated like a supplement without veterinary guidance,” says Dr. Lena Hartwell, DVM in “Is Oregano Safe for Pets?” published in the All About Pets website.
Possible side effects in dogs include:
• Mild stomach upset
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Drooling or signs of nausea
These symptoms are more likely if a dog eats a large amount of oregano or consumes oregano oil, which is far more concentrated than the fresh or dried herb.
needed to safely break down many plant compounds, including the essential oils found in oregano.
“Cats are especially sensitive to herbs that contain essential oils, and oregano is one of them,” explains Dr. Hartwell.
Even small amounts can lead to:
• Gastrointestinal irritation
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
Some cats may be drawn to oregano because it is related to plants like catnip, but that does not mean it is safe for regular exposure or consumption.
What About Oregano Oil?
Oregano oil deserves special attention. Oregano essential oil is not safe for dogs or cats, whether ingested, applied to the skin, or diffused in enclosed spaces.
Essential oils are extremely concentrated and can overwhelm a pet’s system. In cats especially, exposure can lead to serious toxicity because their livers cannot properly metabolize the compounds.
“I see more problems from essential oils than from the herbs themselves. Oregano oil is a big one to avoid,” says Dr. Hartwell.
Signs of essential oil exposure may include:
• Difficulty breathing
• Tremors
• Weakness
• Chemical burns on the skin or mouth
Can Oregano Ever Be Beneficial?
ers need time and focused attention from their owner before adjusting to a new dynamic.
6. In more severe or prolonged cases, professional intervention may be necessary. Veterinarians or animal behaviorists can offer guidance tailored to a pet’s specific situation. According to Dog Depression: Symptoms and How To Help Your Dog by PetMD, treatment plans may occasionally include behavioral therapy or short-term medication, particularly when depression significantly interferes with a dog’s quality of life. These options are typically considered only after environmental and social strategies have been tried.
Prevention
Preventing depression in pets involves proactive care and emotional awareness. Maintaining stable routines, providing regular mental and physical stimulation, and responding quickly to behavioral changes can reduce the risk of emotional distress. Understanding that pets are emotionally responsive beings helps owners recognize that emotional health is just as important as physical health. Pets can indeed experience depression, and their emotional well-being deserves thoughtful attention.
Dogs and cats respond deeply to changes in their environment, relationships, and routines. By recognizing the signs of depression, ruling out medical causes, and offering consistent care and enrichment, pet owners can help their companions regain balance and happiness. As veterinary experts and publications like Riverbank Animal Hospital and PetMD consistently emphasize, a compassionate and informed approach can make a meaningful difference in a pet’s emotional life.
Some pet supplements include oregano extract in highly controlled, veterinaryformulated doses, usually for antimicrobial support. This does not mean pet owners should add oregano to homemade meals or experiment with herbal remedies. Dogs may tolerate tiny amounts better than cats, but neither animal truly needs oregano in their diet. There are safer, species-appropriate ways to support pet health.
What Should Pet Owners Do?
• If
Oregano and Cats Cats are a different story. While oregano is
BERTRAND Degat, vineyard manager for French zero-alcohol wine producer French Bloom, winces visibly when recalling some of the criticism and snobbery he has encountered from his contemporaries.
“Whatever you do, you’re judged,” he said during the giant Wine Paris industry fair where no- and lowalcohol wines and spirits had their own dedicated space for the first time.
“I don’t care about it, but it affects me when it’s people close to me,” he said. “I had people really close to me who said they didn’t even want to come to taste it (our wine) at the beginning.”
That sort of disdain is still present in the industry – no-alcohol wines still struggle to match their alcoholic equivalents for complexity and taste – but attitudes are changing fast. French Bloom, which hopes to sell a million bottles this year, has won investment from French luxury giant LVMH and is now the official non-alcoholic sparkling wine sponsor of Formula One motor racing. After launching as a brand in 2021, the company has since bought its own vineyard in southwest France and sells a premium sparkling white at more
As the broader French wine sector undergoes a crisis, with some producers ripping up vines to plant olives or apricots, French Bloom and other non-alcoholic winemakers are booming.
“There’s a steady decline in alcohol consumption in France and around the world, wine included, and a rise in responsible drinking,” said Mathilde Boulachin, founder of another leading French brand, Chavin.
“We’re here to support responsible drinking, offering different alternatives for all consumers who want another option,” she added.
The market is not just Gen-Z youngsters in the West who drink less than their parents and grandparents, but also pregnant women, health-conscious consumers or people who avoid alcohol for religious reasons.
Most no- or low-alcohol wines rely on a de-alcoholization process which sees the wine heated in vacuum conditions, with the alcohol evaporating off at relatively low temperatures.
The problem is that the process strips the liquid of many of its all-important aromas – an issue some producers resolve by adding in either artificial or
The result is wines that fade quickly from the mouth – the very opposite of a memorable vintage.
“The issue with 0 percent, low and no, is that we’ve disappointed the consumer for many years. It’s always been a compromise,” Paul Schaafsma of UK-based wine group Benchmark Drinks said.
“We’ve thought about it in a wine-making way and said ‘we have to start with wine, and then we must de-alcoholize because that’s how we do things.’ We didn’t think about what it tasted like.”
Benchmark Drinks, which produces no-alcohol wines for its Elton John and Kylie Minogue celebrity brands, has taken a different approach.
Using an assembler in Germany, it takes grape juice, ferments it with bacteria which does not produce alcohol, and adds Chinese green tea to offer complexity and tannins.
“Now the wine purists can shoot me down and say ‘well, it’s not a wine because you didn’t ferment it with yeast,’ but we’ve sold over a million bottles of Kylie Minogue sparkling rose, and consumers love it,” Schaafsma added. AFP
A taste of good fortune to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse
By Joyce Babe Pañares
AT JASMINE , New World Makati Hotel’s signature restaurant, two banquet-style menus for the Lunar New Year are sure to delight families and friends alike who are celebrating the start of the Year of the Fire Horse.
The two versions of Jasmine’s Great Fortune 88 set menu both begin with a “Great Fortune, Prosperity Salmon Yee Sang.” Tossed as high as humanly possible, but careful not to reach the ceiling, this festive salad aims to make as much of a mess as possible to the rhythmic chanting of lo hei (literally means tossing up) in a bid to attract fortune and good luck.
Menu 1, priced at P55,888 net for ten guests, comes with a BBQ combination of roasted honey pork and crispy pork belly –the kind that makes you think of your maintenance medicine for a fraction of second before giving in to that tender chunk of meat and crunchy skin, followed by a pumpkin seafood and conpoy (dried scallop) soup believed to boost energy while packing an umami-rich flavor.
IMAGINE a kitchen where competition meets creativity, and where fried chicken isn’t just food, it’s at the heart of a culinary challenge. That’s exactly what Unilever Food Solutions (UFS) brought to Whitespace Manila – a first-of-its-kind live game show event, the All-in-One Crispy Challenge, with the newest UFS product, Knorr Crispy Breading Mix, as the star of the show. For culinary professionals, the
Main dishes include stir-fried chicken and shrimp with shimeji mushroom; steamed garoupa with ginger scallion and supreme soy sauce; braised abalone mushroom with dried oyster, shiitake, sea moss and broccoli; and wok-fried chicken with Chinese preserved meat and asparagus.
Menu 2, more indulgent at P69,888 for ten guests, starts strong with a roasted suckling pig and BBQ combination platter and braised winter melon soup with seafood, crabmeat and conpoy.
It main dishes are all showstoppers: Sweetsour prawn with cantaloupe; stir-fried scallops and chicken with shimeji mushroom; steamed garoupa with minced garlic and scallion; classic pork belly stew with taro leaves; braised abalone mushroom with
event offered a unique opportunity to see the new product in action, demonstrating practical solutions that while streamlining prep time and optimizing costs ensures consistent crispiness.
Hosted by popular food creators Ninong Ry and Vanna Reyes, the event was a high-energy, playful experience where influencers, friends from the media and chefs went head-to-head in kitchen-inspired
served meat and vegetables.
For dessert, both set menus offer glutinous rice balls with hot almond cream and the iconic nian gao or “tikoy.”
Guests who would like to try the Yum Cha
mini games. The twist? Each challenge was inspired by the core benefits of UFS’ newest product, Knorr Crispy Breading Mix: Madali, Matipid and Malutong. For participants, it was more than just fun. They got a first-hand look at the realities of running a food business balancing taste, time, and cost while also discovering how Knorr Professional Crispy Breading Mix helps simplify operations and deliver consistently crispy chicken.
“To build a strong food business, operators need to manage costs, elevate their dishes, and work efficiently without spending all their time on prep,” said UFS Country Executive Chef Kenneth Cacho.
“We know the significant effort that chefs put in to perfect their Fried Chicken recipes. Knorr Crispy Breading Mix removes the guesswork and tedious preparation steps, so that chefs can focus on creating and serving delicious dishes to their clientele. With Knorr Crispy Breading Mix, we help make their operations madali,
matipid, and ensure their fried dishes stay malutong,” he added.
The All-in-One Crispy Challenge was designed to be interactive, encouraging participants to experiment, create, and compete, all while experiencing how the new product can make kitchen operations smoother and more consistent.
“We want our creators and media partners to really see and feel how our newest product makes life easier for food operators. With Knorr Professional Crispy Breading Mix, there’s no need for multiple ingre-
dients or eggs -- just add water and you get consistently crispy chicken every time,” Cacho said.
For Eduardo Jos, UFS Philippines Food Research and Development Manager, the launch reflected the brand’s
Photograph shows alcohol free bottles of wine displayed during the 2026 edition of the Wine Paris international wine and spirits fair in Paris on February 10, 2026. AFP
Nian gao
Great Fortune, Prosperity salmon yee sang Lunar New Year cake
Stir-fried scallops and chicken with shimeji mushroom Roasted suckling pig and BBQ combination platter
Do your and your
crush’s playlist in sync?
Try this playlist compatibility test
By Angelica Villanueva
SPOTIFY is giving Valentine’s Day a musical twist with the launch of “Match Made in Spotify,” an in-app feature that turns listening habits into a playful compatibility test.
Available exclusively on the Spotify app since Feb. 10, the experience lets users see how well their music taste lines up with a crush, partner or even a close friend, adding a lighthearted spin to modern dating rituals.
To try it, users simply open “Match Made in Spotify” in the app, type in their crush’s favorite song or artist, and shake their phone to reveal the results. From there, Spotify analyzes both
SHOWBIZ
listening histories and generates a compatibility score.
Each match also unlocks a personalized playlist built from the pair’s shared and sometimes contrasting in music preferences, giving users an instant soundtrack for the season. Results range from playful rankings to “cosmic-level compatibility,” and can be easily shared on social media.
The feature leans into something many listeners already believe: that music says a lot about who you are. By turning playlists and streaming habits into a love test, Spotify is tapping into how people already use songs to flirt, connect and tell their stories online.
With “Match Made in Spotify,” the message is simple: sometimes, love might just start with the right song.
Under the ‘CapEath’ magic spell
How young stars Caprice Cayetano and Heath Jornales are making viewers swoon
By Angelica Villanueva
INSIDE the iconic Pinoy Big Brother house, a “slow-burn” romance is capturing the hearts of viewers as teen housemates Caprice Cayetano and Heath Jornales showcase a chemistry that thrives on mutual support.
Since joining the famous house with 18 other young Kapamilya and Kapuso artists, the two have been noticed not only for their individual personalities but also for the natural
By Jasper Valdez
VALENTINE’S Day may pass but it’s not too late to binge-watch romantic films because watching them isn’t always about chasing a perfect love story. Sometimes it’s about observing someone else make the choices you’re trying not to repeat—or finally make the one you wish you had made sooner. The titles below, all streaming on Prime Video, trace romance across those different phases, from starting over to letting go. Which stage are you in?
Starting over on your own terms
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Set in 1950s New York, the series follows Miriam
difficult, Heath kept trying to create a special meal for her, and he even arranged chocolate chips into the shape of a letter ‘C’.
Bihira lang po ako gumawa nang maayos na pancake, so kung magawa ko po ‘yun nang maayos, it’s gonna be a special Kuya,” Heath shared in the Caprice was visibly touched by Heath’s gesture and Natuwa po ako tsaka nagulat po ako na para sa ‘kin po ,” she said, noting that the gesture was “very sweet.”
The chemistry between the two became even stronger at the KISLAP: The Sparkling Magical New Year Ball, where they were chosen as King and Queen by the housemates’ votes. The two also shared a slow dance.
The narrative came full circle on Day 98, during
of being evicted. Big Brother assigned them the task of cooking a special meal for a fellow housemate. Caprice, facing her first-ever nomination, chose to return the favor to Heath.
Caprice arranged a cozy table in the garden and set up a breakfast platter with pancakes, bacon, and meatloaf. She explained that this was a thoughtful “thank you” to Heath for his gesture earlier in the season.
Ikaw ‘yung napili ko for this kasi both tayong nominated. Ginamit ko din ‘yung opportunity na ‘to para makapag-thank you din kasi nagbigay ka ng pancakes [noon],” Caprice told Heath. Heath admitted in the Confession Room that the gesture made him feel “special,” especially coming during a stressful nomination week. The two bonded over a friendly exchange of jokes, a moment that fans praised for its “pure and unforced” energy.
Even their fellow housemates also got under the “CapEath” spell. During a recent acting challenge to highlight the duo’s spark. With Princess Aliyah at the helm as director, the group “filmed” a romantic skit, repeatedly urging Caprice and Heath to lock eyes to heighten the tension.
The atmosphere remained intense even after Princess yelled “Cut!” as Heath approached Caprice to commend her performance with a spontaneous high-five, the whole house erupted into wild cheers and chants of “CapEath,” proving the pair’s effect on those closest to them.
As the competition enters its final stages and the pressure of the “Big Night” comes, the “CapEath” ship continues to sail on a foundation of “give-andtake.” In a reality show often defined by strategic alliances and loud confrontations, Caprice and Heath have carved out a space for something quieter and more relatable to the audience.
The Big Night will be held on Feb. 28.
Romance, rebound, and release
Bad timing, strong feelings The Idea of You
“Midge” Maisel as she rebuilds her life after her marriage collapses. Discovering a talent for standup comedy, she begins carving out a career in a male-dominated space. Comedy becomes both a career and coping mechanism as she rebuilds her life outside marriage.
Heath and Caprice’s chemistry proved undeniable during a recent group task where they ‘filmed’ a romantic skit
Heath (left) and Caprice continue to capture viewers’ hearts with their natural chemistry
Teen housemates Caprice Cayetano and Heath Jornales were crowned King and Queen at the ‘KISLAP: The Sparkling Magical New Year
By Angelica Villanueva
AS Manila prepares to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse on Tuesday, Feb. 17, the city’s streets, malls, and integrated resorts are lining up cultural performances, parades, and familyfriendly activities that go beyond the customary feast.
Manila gears up for Year of the Fire Horse
In Binondo, widely regarded as the heart of Filipino-Chinese culture,
lanterns once again stretch across Ongpin and nearby streets, turning the district into a corridor of scarlet and gold. Lion and dragon dance troupes are expected to weave through the crowds, while fireworks traditionally light up the night sky. Small shops selling charms and tea sit alongside long-standing businesses, drawing families who make the annual pilgrimage not just for tradition, but for the atmosphere.
A few blocks away, Lucky Chinatown mall is staging weeks of activities leading up to Lunar New Year’s Day. Cultural performances by students from Filipino-Chinese schools are scheduled ahead of Feb. 17, when the mall’s float is set to join the local government’s grand parade. Shoppers can also try their luck at the Angpao Tree installation, which offers prizes in the run-up to the holiday.
Across the metro, large entertainment complexes are also marking the occasion with rituals believed to usher in prosperity.
At Okada Manila in Parañaque, festivities run through late February, highlighted by ceremonial rites and lion dance performances on the morning of Feb. 17 along the Pearl Wing driveway. A Cai Qing blessing ritual, a traditional practice symbolizing the gathering of good fortune, follows later in the day. The resort is also mounting Echoes of Fortune , a Lunar New Year dinner concert at Cove Manila on Feb. 28 featuring Gigi De Lana Younha , and Wen Lan
By Angelica Villanueva
City of Dreams Manila is likewise holding lion dances and an eyedotting ceremony on Feb. 17, a ritual that symbolically awakens the lion for the new year. The entertainment hub is also mounting a Gods of Fortune parade and Lucky Hong Bao giveaways, along with activities for children at DreamPlay.
In Ortigas, Shangri-La Plaza is mixing tradition with the arts. The mall’s Spring Film Festival runs from Feb. 15 to 17, while lantern and calligraphy workshops are scheduled ahead of the holiday. On Lunar New Year’s Day,
By Jasper Valdez
lion and dragon dances return, alongside an art workshop and a Ghuzeng Harmonies concert. A fireworks display is set for the evening of Feb. 16.
Hotels across Makati and Pasay are also hosting lion and dragon dances as part of their seasonal programming, echoing a tradition believed to ward off negative energy and bring luck.
Rooted in centuries-old tradition, the Lunar New Year in Manila has evolved into a citywide celebration, one that blends ritual, spectacle, and community gathering, as families usher in what is believed to be a year of bold moves and renewed energy.
Shangri-La Plaza celebrates the Year of the Fire Horse with a lineup of cultural events
Actress and ‘It’s Showtime’ host Anne Curtis joins the hype as she
C4 | FEBRUARY 15, 2026
VIRGILIO DC GALVEZ, Issue Editor email: vcgalvez@manilastandard.net
Geriatric Center: A promise worth keeping
By Ram Superable
THE country’s senior citizens will have something to look forward to five to seven years from now when the Philippine Geriatric Center is expected to open its doors to them.
“
As our population ages, our health system must be ready to care for the conditions that come with aging.
— Zubiri
By that time, the Philippines will have transitioned into one of the world’s aging societies, with 10 percent of its population aged 65 and above — about 10-12 million seniors in 2030.
After having passed the Senate last week, the Geriatric Center bill will now go to the Bicameral Conference Committee since the House of Representatives had passed a counterpart measure in December 2025.
One of the priorities in the legislative agenda of the Marcos administration, the bill is seen to be signed by the President before the 20th Congress ends its regular session.
By Diana Noche
THE route to preadolescence is pretzel-like. Beneath the cotton-candy exteriority of childhood are realities that need to be carefully addressed. These changes --- physical, mental, and social --- have their own lessons, challenges, and rewards. There are dramatic mood swings --- at once sprite, a crackling wire of energy, and sober, a social solitaire --- all of which have the elements of unpredictability. These are the years of growth spurts and the onset of puberty when a pre-teen starts to be conscious of one’s own sexual maturation, of one’s annoyance to look in the mirror and see a pimple-shotgunned face staring back. One honks around a lot with friends on the computer and the social media to help deal with depression and a huge chip on one’s shoulder. The adolescent stage is always the phase when lessons to be learned surface --- the watershed age when layers of innocence become unstruck --- to confront with a larger, unfamiliar, less protective world, away from the family womb as they are about to leave school, a world stifled by social strains, and face up to bullies and cyber bullying. One’s hormones also need coherence, an understanding of early sexual curiosity expressed through casual nuzzling, holding hands, fleeting smacks on the
“As our population ages, our health system must be ready to care for the conditions that come with aging,” says Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri.
“I have high hopes that this measure will make a real difference in the lives of our senior citizens, not just by improving access to care, but by giving families greater confidence that their loved ones are being looked after with dignity and competence,” he added.
Zubiri described the approval of the bill as a concrete step toward building a healthcare system that responds to the realities of an aging population and gives senior citizens the focused care they deserve.
He explained that the bill aims to establish a tertiary specialty hospital under the Department of Health that will focus on comprehensive geriatric services, while also serving as a training and research hub to help raise standards of care across the country.
According to Zubiri, this structure allows lessons and best practices to flow beyond one facility and into regional and local health systems.
Senate Deputy Majority Leader Risa Hontiveros, the bill’s main sponsor, said the Philippine Geriatric Center seeks to enhance access to specialized healthcare services for elderly Filipinos.
“Magiging mas madali ng matupad ang good health at long life na lagi nating winiwish tuwing birthday ng ating mga lolo’t lola dahil sa pagpasa ng Philippine Geriatric Center (PGC) Act,” Sen. Risa said.
An amendment she introduced mandates that the Philippine Geriatric Center be constructed, fully equipped, and operational within five to seven years to prevent it from becoming an idle government project.
The Department of Health is expected to lead the implementation of the measure once enacted into law.
The bill also incorporates an amendment from Senator Robin Padilla directing the facility to prioritize indigent and low-income
“
Magiging mas madali nang matupad ang good health at long life na lagi nating winiwish tuwing birthday ng ating mga lolo’t lola dahil sa pagpasa ng Philippine Geriatric Center (PGC) Act.
— Hontiveros
older persons and other vulnerable aging populations. Amendments from Senator Pia Cayetano integrate social welfare and protection programs into geriatric services and require age-friendly amenities and facilities within the hospital.
“You can count on me to continue working in the Senate with my colleagues to pass more laws that will promote the health of every Filipino,” she said.
Senate Bill No. 1509 was sponsored on the floor by Sen. Risa Hontiveros and authored by Zubiri and Sens. Mark Villar, Bong Go, Lito Lapid, Jinggoy Estrada, Loren Legarda, Erwin Tulfo, Raffy Tulfo, Joel Villanueva, Robin Padilla, JV Ejercito, Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, Camille Villar, Kiko Pangilinan and Pia Cayetano.
Growing up blues
lips, tender eye-to-eye contacts and glances, and the itch for exploration through not-sosubtle music videos, unregulated movies, video games, and for girls, a fear of premature pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
Generally speaking, adolescents grow into maturity at different levels, bringing a lot of insecurities and indecisiveness. There may be flashes of brilliance, then pockets of loneliness spent within their own impenetrable bubbles to point up some privatized rebellion. Boys mostly feel peer pressure and conforming to street culture, physical image concerns: cropped hair?
Bob Marley rock-flowing locks? super agitated haircut? backward baseball caps? overly saggy a la hip-hop pants? Girls like looking good in girl group bands, fashion trends, hands-on fitness and wellness exercises, beauty products, young romantic episodes on their gadgets, dreams of their first kiss, and, to get by all these, some extra cash.
There is an obvious conflict between the itch for independence, the dislike of being cooped up, and an eagerness to get older in a hurry
vis-à-vis the indefiniteness about stumbling through dark experiences and hanging in there without the concentrated stewardship of a tight-knit family.
Needless to say, the teen years are an interesting makeor-break phase. Everybody goes through it: stubborn streaks, inconsistencies, psychological glitches, naïve optimism, and seeds of despair.
Counselling is an instrument, showing care and patient love, encouragement, fine examples of positive parenting, sound money management, joy in small pleasures, and a hangtough mentality instilled in their heads because these kids have to grow up and take their place in the world minus their parents.
Let the adolescents know and learn: their parents’ greatest legacy is love, not wealth.
Health challenges faced by older Pinoys
A STUDY funded by the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia and implemented by the Demographic Research and Development Foundation, Inc. lists the various health challenges being faced by older Filipinos. The 2023 study is a follow-up of the first one done from December to March 2019. Of the 5,985 respondents interviewed in the first study, only 4,397 were still alive, 1,579 deceased, and nine lost to follow-up. A total of 4,011 surviving respondents and 1,514 informants of deceased respondents were interviewed in the 2023 survey. Among the findings of the Longitudinal Study of Ageing and Health in the Philippines (LSAHP) were the following:
l Hypertension is the most commonly diagnosed illness. Older Filipinos experience a high prevalence of physiciandiagnosed illnesses, primarily noncommunicable diseases, poor oral health, pain, and falls. Hypertension is the most commonly diagnosed illness (48%), followed by cataracts (19%) and arthritis, neuralgia, or rheumatism (18%). Nearly 5% have had a heart attack, with the first attack occurring at an average age of 58 years. Among those who experienced heart attacks, only two in five (42%) are presently taking medication for their heart condition, with the highest proportion (61%) being in the youngest age group (<70). One in three older individuals (33%) are often troubled with pain, of which 58% described the pain as moderate and 9% felt severe pain. Nearly a quarter of older individuals experienced a fall in the past 12 months. Those who experienced a fall in the past year reported an average of two falls, with 15% requiring medical treatment.
l Functional difficulties are prevalent. One in five older persons (20%) reported experiencing difficulties performing at least one of the seven activities of daily living (ADLs). The most prevalent ADL difficulties for older people are going outside/leaving the house (15%) and standing up from a bed/sitting down on a chair (11%). Physical functioning deteriorates with advancing age, with 44% of the oldest age cohort encountering at least one ADL difficulty. A higher proportion of older individuals (32%) are experiencing at least one difficulty in the seven instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs).
l Older Filipinos have an unmet need for health services. About a fifth of older people face difficulties accessing healthcare services
A little help goes a long way.
when needed, mostly due to financial reasons. Significant proportions are not aware of government programmes aimed at promoting the health of older people, such as the free vaccination programme for pneumococcal disease and influenza, as well as free medicines for hypertension and diabetes.
Teen years open up to first loves and romantic expectations.
