Manila Standard - 2026 February 21 - Saturday

‘China will back 2028 bet who will not defend WPS rights’

By Rex Espiritu

COMMODORE Jay Tarriela on Friday warned that China would likely back a presidential candidate in the 2028 general elections who would scale back

Palace dismisses ‘anoint Leni’ yarn, VP Sara early bid

MALACAÑANG on Friday downplayed speculation that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

transparency efforts and avoid challenging Chinese actions in disputed waters in the West Philippine Sea.

Tarriela, spokesperson of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) for the West Philippine Sea, said China is un-

likely to support someone who would firmly defend Philippine rights in the disputed waters, cautioning that Bei jing’s information operations may in tensify as the polls approach.

Rody allowed to skip ICC hearings next week

Prosecutor argues former president fit to attend trial

upcoming Edsa Peoples Power 40th anniversary on February 25, 2026. Inset shows organizers of the Trillion Peso March against corruption and political dynasties with Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Nicolas Torre III at the monument following a walk-through of the planned activities next week. Manny Palmero

By Pot Chavez, Charles Dantes and Maricel Cruz

TCHINA is stepping up attempts to change the status quo "by force or coercion," Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said Friday, while adding she wanted "stable and constructive" ties with Beijing. "China is intensifying its attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion in the East China Sea and the South China Sea, while also expanding and stepping up its military activities in the areas surrounding our country," Takaichi told parliament following her election landslide on February 8. "It is a consistent policy of the Takaichi Cabinet to comprehensively advance a 'Mutually Beneficial Relationship Based on Common Strategic Interests' with China and to build a constructive and stable relationship.

House eyes Sara’s SALN, bank records

By Maricel Cruz

THE House of Representatives may examine

Vice President Sara Duterte’s bank records as part of ongoing impeachment proceedings, citing allegations of unexplained wealth and possible omissions in her statements of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALNs).

Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega V of La Union on

Rio N. Araja,

Friday described the accusations in the fourth impeachment complaint as “serious and disturbing.”

He noted claims that certain bank accounts, properties and significant cash movements were not fully reflected in Duterte’s SALNs.

“These matters must be reconciled with SALN disclosures,” he said, particularly in light of allegations of sworn accounts detailing large cash transfers.

"Precisely because China is an important neighbor and there are various pending issues and challenges, we will continue our communication and respond calmly and appropriately from the standpoint of our national interest," she said. China is beefing up its military and is engaged in a number of territorial disputes with

By Charles Dantes and Alena Mae Flores

MALACANANG on Friday said a proposed fare increase for passenger jeepneys is premature even as fuel prices are projected to rise for what could be the eighth straight week.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the LTFRB was prioritizing discussions on possible bus fare increases, noting that buses do not have a provisional fare adjustment.

“Their

HE International Criminal Court PreTrial Chamber I has approved the request of former President Rodrigo Duterte not to attend the confirmation of charges hearing starting Feb. 23.

“The Chamber, while acknowledging the objections of the Prosecution and the CLRV (Common Legal Representative of the Victims), considers that, in the present circumstances of the case, it is appropriate to proceed with the hearing on the confirmation of charges in the absence of Mr. Duterte,” the ICC judges said.

The Office of the Prosecutor earlier opposed Duterte’s request not to appear during his confirmation hearings scheduled on February 23-24 and February 26-27, 2026.

They argued Duterte is "fit, competent, and physically and mentally able" to attend personally, citing the Chamber's earlier conclusion.

ICC spokesperson Oriane Maillet said Duterte’s absence is not based on "reasons related to the health.” Duterte's lawyer Nicholas Kaufman said the former president is within his rights to submit a waiver declining to attend proceedings, saying it is is allowed under the law.

By Charles Dantes,

Superable, and Maricel Cruz

Palace...

From A1

President Sara Duterte’s early declaration as “untimely” and “irrelevant,. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said talk of a possible Marcos endorsement of Robredo was “a suggestion that will be respected, but it is not timely.”

She added that Duterte’s announcement should not be viewed as a trigger for political realignments.

“That perspective is not the Palace’s perspective. The Vice President’s declaration that she will run for president is irrelevant because that is not what the President considers important right now. There is no need to divide the Filipino people,” Castro said.

Castro stressed that Mr. Marcos remains focused on governance rather than electoral politics, calling on leaders and public servants to avoid taking sides. She said the administration’s priorities are economic recovery, flood control and job generation.

In a separate development, Sen. Robin Padilla said a “hierarchy” is being followed in selecting Duterte’s potential running mate for 2028.

He said Sen. Imee Marcos, sister of the President, fits the role, but added he would run for vice president if asked by former President Rodrigo Duterte.

If Senator Marcos is chosen as Duterte’s running mate, Padilla said he would instead serve as campaign manager.

Mr. Marcos and Robredo are scheduled to meet Saturday in Naga City, where Robredo serves as mayor. The President is set to inspect antiflood control operations along Sagop Creek as part of the administration’s mitigation efforts.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives said Duterte’s presidential plans would not affect impeachment proceedings against her.

Batangas 2nd District Rep. Gerville Luistro, chair of the House committee on justice, said the panel would apply the same rules and parameters used in handling impeachment complaints against Mr. Marcos when tackling the four complaints filed against the Vice President.

Luistro said the committee would deliberate on each complaint ground by ground to determine sufficiency in substance, stressing that impeachment is a constitutional duty, not a political exercise.

“Regardless of the Vice President’s pronouncement about her intention to run, the deliberations of the justice committee should not be affected,” she said. As of Feb. 20, four impeachment complaints have been filed against Duterte, but these have yet to be referred to the justice committee.

Duterte earlier signaled her intention to seek the presidency in 2028, apologizing for teaming up with Mr. Marcos in the 2022 elections and criticizing what she described as governance failures, including corruption and rising living costs.

Castro also brushed aside political scientist Antonio Contreras’ view that a Robredo candidacy backed by Mr. Marcos could defeat Duterte if elections were held today, saying it was merely an opinion.

But the Palace spokesperson appeared to take a swipe at the Vice President in contrasting “action versus vacation” and “working versus not working.”

Duterte has faced criticism from Malacañang over her personal trips abroad, including visits to overseas Filipino workers and to her father, the former President who is facing crimes against humanity charges before the International Criminal Court in The Hague.

The Office of the Vice President has maintained that her trips complied with Philippine laws and regulations, and Duterte has denied being aligned with any foreign power.

Rody...

From A1

In Malacañang, Palace Press Offi-

cer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will not personally monitor the upcoming ICC confirmation of charges hearing.

"The President does not need to monitor it. What the President is monitoring is the interest of our country," Castro said.

For Mary Ann Pajo, the ICC hearing will determine whether Duterte will stand trial over at least 76 deaths, including that of her son.

Earlier this week, cemetery workers opened her son's tomb and removed his body for examination by a forensic pathologist.

‘China...

From A1

“If we silence transparency now, by 2028 Filipinos may again forget which politicians failed to stand up for our position in the West Philippine Sea,” Tarriela said during a forum hosted by the Stratbase Institute in Makati City.

He warned that China’s Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) operations could expand ahead of the elections in an effort to shape public opinion and blunt the government’s transparency campaign on maritime incidents.

“I don’t think the Chinese government will say, ‘We’ll stop doing this.’ FIMI is a battle of narratives—how they can shape public opinion,” he said.

The PCG spokesman maintained that despite escalating efforts, China’s influence operations have had limited success due to the government’s transparency campaign under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which he said has made it harder to shift public opinion on the West Philippine Sea.

Tarriela described countering disinformation—including statements

No... From A1

Meanwhile, consumers face another round of oil price hikes next week of as much as P0.60 per liter as markets react to tensions between the U.S. and Iran, pricing in the risk of supply disruptions.

Diesel prices are expected to increase by P0.40 to P0.60 per liter, while gasoline prices may remain steady or see a slight increase of up to P0.10 per liter.

Casto said the government is studying subsidies or other forms of assistance for jeepney drivers if no fare hike is granted.

Consumers are bracing for another round of oil price hikes next week of as much as P0.60 per liter, as markets react to heightened tensions between the United States and Iran and the risk of supply disruptions.

Diesel prices are expected to increase by P0.40 to P0.60 per liter, while gasoline prices may remain steady or post a slight increase of up to P0.10 per liter.

Castro said regulators are still reviewing petitions from transport groups and have not approved any fare hike.

“At this time, there is a hearing ongoing, carefully studying whether there will be a fare hike,” she said.

Castro said she had spoken with Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairman Vigor Mendoza and Transportation Secretary Giovanni

‘China using...

From A1

other countries in the region, including Japan over the Senkaku Islands, known as the Diaoyu in China.

Takaichi, seen as a China hawk before becoming premier in October, suggested in November that Japan could intervene militarily, if Beijing sought to

Accused of dealing drugs, 30-yearold Joewarski Pajo was shot dead while playing a game on his phone, one of thousands of extrajudicial killings alleged to have taken place under the Duterte administration.

"This hearing is what we have been waiting for," Fr Flavie Villanueva said after saying a prayer over Joewarski's remains, the 126th body his non-profit group has exhumed as potential evidence.

"It is important that (Duterte) faces the court in person, physically, for us to see if there is remorse on his part," said Villanueva, a fierce critic of the former president's so-called drug war.

Villanueva called Duterte's decision to skip the hearing cowardly.

"Accountability is something this person has no concept of," he said.

from some politicians that echo Chinese narratives—as the “hardest job” his office faces.

He urged voters to be discerning in choosing leaders and to reject candidates who would prioritize Chinese interests over Philippine sovereignty.

Tarriela also said he has received no directive from Malacañang to tone down his media engagements despite recent exchanges with the Chinese Embassy in Manila.

He added that the Palace fully supports the administration’s transparency initiative in the West Philippine Sea.

Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs, who has designated Rogelio Villanueva Jr. as its spokesperson for maritime concerns, on Friday welcomed the Senate’s openness to holding a dialogue with the Chinese Embassy in Manila, saying such engagement could provide a venue for frank and professional discussions on differing positions and potential areas of common ground.

In a press briefing, Villanueva, expressed the department's support for the Senate's initiative to meet with the Chinese Embassy.

“The DFA supports that openness

Lopez on the matter.

She noted that the LTFRB believes a fare hike for jeepneys may be premature due to the existing provisional P1 increase.

“According to their computation, this provisional grant of a one-peso fare hike still covers the fuel cost for jeepneys,” Castro said.

She added that the petition filed by jeepney operators and drivers is not solely about fares but also about curbing illegal or “colorum” vehicles.

“What the jeepney operators and drivers are also asking for is not specifically a fare hike, but action against colorum vehicles,” Castro said, citing intensified enforcement efforts by the Land Transportation Office.

The fuel price projections are based on movements in the Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS), the benchmark used by oil importers, and foreign exchange averages from Monday to Thursday.

Leo Bellas, president of Jetti Petroleum, said that with the resumption of MOPS trading on Feb. 19 after a two-day break, prices jumped by more than 5 percent from the Feb. 16 settlement.

He cited increased military activity and the higher likelihood of U.S. strikes on Iran, which have reduced prospects for a diplomatic resolution.

While gasoline MOPS prices softened due to healthy regional inventories, Bellas said higher freight costs and geopolitical risk premiums offset the possibility of a price rollback.

take Taiwan by force.

China, which regards the democratic island as part of its territory and has not ruled out force to annex it, was furious. It summoned Tokyo's ambassador and warned Chinese citizens against visiting Japan. The number of tourists from mainland China plunged 60.7 percent last month.

At a Manila coffee shop staffed by family members of those killed in the drug war, three employees said they believed justice would not have been possible in the Philippines.

"No one in the Philippines can lay hands on Duterte, much less file cases against him," said Lydjay Acopio, whose three-year-old daughter Myca was killed in a police raid on the home she shared with her father.

Fellow barista Rosalie Saludo agreed: "As long as his daughter (Vice President Sara Duterte) is in office, as long as his allies are in office, he can still find a way to twist and distort justice."

Mary Grace Garganta, manager of the coffee shop, said she had been forced to move after police without a warrant shot and killed her father in

expressed by the Senate to hold this meeting with the Chinese Embassy. If the Senate reaches out to the DFA, we are prepared to extend the necessary assistance,” he said.

This statement followed Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson's announcement that he intends to initiate dialogue with the embassy.

Lacson's initiative comes after Ambassador Jing Quan expressed his willingness to meet with Philippine legislators to ease escalating public tensions.

Villanueva emphasized that the DFA values the diversity of opinion that characterizes the country's democratic tradition.

He urged that official statements on foreign policy issues be considered in their full context, particularly regarding matters that directly impact national interests.

“The DFA calls for constructive engagement that advances the country's shared defense of its position in the West Philippine Sea, consistent with President Marcos' independent foreign policy and international law,” he added.

Earlier this week, the DFA urged the Chinese Embassy in Manila to

House... From A1

The verified complaint, filed by lawyer Nathaniel G. Cabrera and endorsed by House Committee on Human Rights chair Bienvenido Abante Jr. and Ortega, was received Wednesday evening by House Secretary General Cheloy Garafil and transmitted to the Office of Speaker Faustino G. Dy III.

Cabrera urged the House to issue subpoenas for bank records covering deposits, withdrawals, transfers and account activity from 2019 to 2025 involving Duterte, her immediate family members, known associates and corporate entities allegedly linked to her.

He also asked lawmakers to coordinate with the Commission on Audit, Bureau of Internal Revenue and AntiMoney Laundering Council to obtain financial intelligence and trace crossborder transfers.

The complaint further proposed commissioning an independent forensic accounting team to reconcile SALNs with bank and property records and to preserve vault inventories and other documentary evidence referenced in Joint Circular No. 201501 pending forensic review.

“These requests are grounded in this Honorable House of Representatives’ constitutional investigatory powers in impeachment proceedings and in jurisprudence permitting the piercing of bank secrecy where necessary to investigate bribery, unexplained wealth, or

Liaoning aircraft carrier twice locked radar on Japanese aircraft in international waters near Okinawa, according to Japan.

Beijing's top diplomat Wang Yi told the Munich Security Conference last weekend Saturday that forces in Japan were seeking to "revive militarism."

2016.

She was afraid of what might happen to family members "now that I'm speaking up."

"I won't deny that my father was involved in drugs, but that was not a reason to kill him," she said. "They are not God to take away a life."

Sheerah Escudero, whose teenage brother's bullet-riddled body was found in 2017, said Monday's hearing marked a step towards "accountability."

"We have a broken judicial system," the 28-year-old told reporters this week, saying local authorities had mounted "no credible investigation" into the allegations against Duterte. "It has been dark for a very long time, but now we are seeing the light."

With AFP

maintain a responsible, measured tone in public statements, expressing concern that recent remarks linking strained bilateral ties to possible job losses could undermine constructive dialogue between the two sides.

In response, the embassy reaffirmed China’s commitment to resolving differences with the Philippines through dialogue and consultation, urging the DFA to help prevent remarks that could undermine diplomatic efforts.

Philippine Navy spokesperson Capt. Marissa Martinez echoed Tarriella's warning, saying China’s aggressive responses on traditional and social media may form part of its influence operations.

She flagged the rise of “information laundering,” in which the origin of false or misleading content is obscured, possibly involving state or non-state actors.

Meanwhile, National Security Council Assistant Director General Cornelio Valencia Jr. called for a “whole-of-nation” approach to counter FIMI, including strengthening media literacy, improving transparency and accountability, and enhancing early detection of interference efforts.

corruption,” Cabrera said.

The complaint argues that, if established, the alleged acts would constitute betrayal of public trust and a culpable violation of the constitutional duty to disclose assets and could give rise to criminal liability under the law, including Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

Ortega stressed that impeachment is a process and not a conviction.

“This is not a conviction. This is a process. But when there are sworn statements about large cash transfers and serious red flags in asset declarations, the House cannot look away,” he said.

Rejecting claims that scrutiny of financial records amounts to harassment, Ortega added: “Oversight is not persecution. It is a constitutional duty.”

“The Constitution is not suspended because someone declares candidacy. If there is nothing to hide, transparency should not be feared,” he said.

The complaint centers on alleged unexplained wealth and discrepancies in Duterte’s SALNs, including claims that certain assets, bank accounts and property transactions were omitted or understated.

It links these allegations to questioned confidential fund disbursements totaling at least ₱612.5 million from December 2022 to the third quarter of 2023 for both the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education.

an increasingly severe security environment and are not directed against any specific third country," Japan responded.

It said there were "countries in the international community that have been rapidly increasing their military capabilities in a non-transparent manner" but added that "Japan opposes such moves and distances itself from them." AFP All...

From A1

In another development, multiple universities, colleges, and other education institutions have announced the suspension of classes on Feb. 25 in observance of the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution.

QC Department of Public Order and Safety chief, Gen. Elmo San Di-

ego (ret.), cited the city government’s no-plastic use policy during the event that coincides with the 40th EDSA anniversary.

The marchers are allowed to gather along the entire one-kilometer stretch of White Plains Ave. without totally blocking vehicular traffic on both directions.

Instead of dividing the lanes like in the past, San Diego said he allowed both lanes for the organizers of the Trillion Peso March.

In December, J-15 jets from China's

The city government will issue a traffic advisory on rerouting schemes.

San Diego also reminded the rallyists that the local government will not allow burning of any materials, such as effigies, the use excessive loud sound systems and bringing of dangerous items while reiterating the city’s ban on plastic use.

The MMDA expects around 30,000 to participate in the rally.

On Friday, authorities conducted a walk-through at the EDSA People Pow-

"Japan's efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities are in response to

er Monument to guarantee public safety, maintain smooth vehicular traffic flow, and uphold peace and order in the area surrounding the monument and nearby roads during the event.

Following the instructions of MMDA chairman Romando Artes, MMDA general manager Nicolas Torre III said the walk-through was part of the agency’s standard operating procedures for mass gatherings, especially those occurring in high-traffic areas and historically sig-

nificant public locations, to ensure the safety of both participants and the general public while keeping major roads accessible.

“Our priority is to ensure that the participants of this activity and the general public is safe while making sure that our major roads are passable. We respect the right of citizens to assemble peacefully, and we are committed to providing the necessary support to maintain order,” Torre said.

NEWS IN BRIEF

DPWH to construct new bridge in Mindoro town

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will construct a permanent steel bridge to replace a hazardous suspension bridge being used by residents of Sitio Akliyan and Sitio Panluan, barangay Hagan, Bongabon, Oriental Mindoro.

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said the President personally ordered construction of the project to ensure safer and easier river crossing for the villagers, noting that routine travel difficulties have affected the livelihood and businesses of the community.

Dizon said the new structure will not only serve as a footbridge, but will also accommodate motorcycles, allowing residents to transport goods and products more efficiently.

Meanwhile, President Marcos has also directed the DPWH to expedite the completion of the Udalo Bridge along the Abra de Ilog–Puerto Galera Road in Occidental Mindoro. The bridge, considered a missing link of the Mindoro Circumferential Road, has been stalled for over three years. Vito Barcelo

PCG hosts dialogue on maritime security

CAUAYAN City—The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in North Eastern Luzon has significantly shaped the course of public consultation during the 112th episode of multisector dialogue in the region.

The forum, dubbed “Usapang Pangkapayapaan, Usapang Pangkaunlaran,” was held at the Tactical Operations Group 2 headquarters, Cauayan Air Station on Thursday, Feb. 19, to promote public awareness on maritime territorial security and comprehensive approach to regional development.

The PCG made a presentation on enhanced coastal surveillance, robust law enforcement operations, and seamless inter-agency coordination pivotal in safeguarding Cagayan Valley’s maritime domain and fostering sustainable development.

A core issue was the I-CARE (Intensified Coastal Area Response and Enforcement) initiative deemed not only as an operational directive, but as a dynamic framework for measuring tangible impact and, more importantly, for fostering deep community engagement. Jessica M. Bacud

Manila RTC convicts 3 on P1-b drug smuggling

THE Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) has convicted three men on a P1-billion drug smuggling case filed by the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

The decision found Muktasil Abundol Assimudin, Emmanuel Paulo Delos Reyes Landicho, and George Sim Fernandez guilty of smuggling in violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

The trio was given life section, plus fine of P50 million each.

The complaint stemmed from the January 2019 seizure of about 146.81 kilograms of illegal drugs at the Manila International Container Port, estimated at nearly P1 billion. Vito Barcelo

EMERGENCY RESPONSE. Elements of the Compostela Emergency Response Team and the Municipal Risk Reduction Management Office joined hands in a clearing and rescue operation amid floods in Compostela, Davao de Oro province in Mindanao. MDRRMO

PBBM assesses ICI report

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expects to have a clearer direction by end-February on the report submitted by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), but no final decision has been made on the commission’s future, Malacañang said Friday.

Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President is carefully reviewing the commission’s findings and recommendations, stressing that the process cannot be

rushed.

“This February, we will probably know, to the best of our knowledge. But I’m not saying that this will be the actual signal of what the President’s deci-

sion will be; to my understanding, most likely by February there will already be a signal,” Castro said at a press briefing.

She described the report as “almost 1,000 pages,” underscoring the need for a thorough evaluation before any action is taken.

“It has to be studied carefully. This is not just like a novel that you read and immediately react to. It must be examined thoroughly so that the President’s decision will be reasonable and correct,” she said.

Castro said there has been no meeting yet between Mr. Marcos and ICI chair-

NOT

Former senator Revilla files bail petition before Sandiganbayan

By Maricel V. Cruz

FORMER senator Ramon Revilla Jr. has filed a petition for bail in his malversation case over the alleged P92.8-million ghost flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan,

Sandiganbayan Third Division clerk of court Dennis Pulma confirmed the filing of Revilla’s bail plea as reported by a multi media news agency (GMA Integrated News) Revilla, who is currently detained at the New Quezon City Jail in Payatas, did not

enter a plea when arraigned last Monday, prompting the anti-graft court to enter a “not guilty” plea on his behalf.

The camp of the former movie actor claimed he was denied of due process when he was not given the opportu-

nity to respond to the updated resolution of the Office of the Ombudsman, which named him as a respondent to the cases.

The Sandigan Fourth Division also entered a not guilty plea for Revilla on a separate graft case.

man Andres Reyes regarding the report, but emphasized that the commission continues to function while the Palace completes its assessment.

She dismissed suggestions that the absence of a meeting reflects a lack of urgency.

“There is no gap in the work. The ICI continues to operate. They have already submitted a report and are still working,” she said.

According to Castro, several findings have already been forwarded to the Office of the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice for appropriate action.

Landslides kill seven in two Davao provinces

SEVEN people died in two separate landslides in Davao de Oro and Davao Oriental provinces, according to reports from concerned local government units (LGUs) on Friday.

The municipal government of Monkayo, Davao de Oro confirmed through a social media post that three members of a family—the father and his two sons—were buried alive in a landslide shortly before noon on Friday, Feb. 19.

The Mati City government, on the other hand, confirmed the deaths of a family of four in Upper Salazar, Barangay Central, also due to a landslide.

Meanwhile, the Army’s 10th Infantry Division (10ID) said in a statement it has mobilized its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) units to respond to calls for help due to continuous heavy rainfall across the region.

“The Monkayo LGU expresses its deep sorrow and assures continued assistance and support to the affected family,” the post read.

The municipal government also called on residents in flood and landslide-prone areas to stay vigilant and be ready to evacuate if needed.

“Everyone is requested to follow the warnings given by barangay officials to avoid danger,” it added.

SC to bare ULAS implementing rules

By Pot Chavez

THE Supreme Court (SC) on Friday announced the forthcoming launch of the Unified Legal Aid Service (ULAS) portal, a centralized digital platform to support the implementation of the ULAS rules.

The SC will be holding the launch on March 3, 2026 as part of the implementation of the rules on Unified Legal Aid Service. Its first phase of launching features the registration module for covered lawyers and organizations, which includes secure authentication, account management, and profile setup; submission of Manifestation of Intent to Aggregate by Registered Organizations; and accreditation of legal outreach programs and missions.

Under the rules, covered lawyers must provide at least 60 hours of free legal aid services every three years to underprivileged and indigent individuals who cannot afford the cost of legal representation due to financial constraint. Meanwhile, a signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with partner agencies will also take place to establish a framework for institutional coordination to facilitate the identification and referral of individuals within the agencies’ respective mandate. Among the partner agencies are the Commission on Human Rights, the National Anti-Poverty Commission, the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor, and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples.

OLD IS

ALWAYS GOLD. Secretary Vince Dizon and Oriental Mindoro Gov. Humerlito Dolor indulge in a perilous crossover on an old suspension bridge in a remote area in Bongabon town which will have to be eventually replaced with a far more sturdy and much safer steel structure on orders by President Marcos, no less. Governor’s Office BASKET WEAVERS OF LA UNION. Indigenous craftsmen of Sudipen, La Union keep alive their age-old trade of weaving bamboo baskets fancied by local and foreign visitors. Dave Leprozo

‘Be considerate to PWDs’

By Maricel Cruz

THE National Council on Disability Affairs has urged business establishments to provide reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities (PWDs), following a reported incident involving a child with autism in Pampanga.

Lawyer Walter Alava, NCDA spokesperson, reminded establishments that accommodating PWDs is a legal obligation.

“We really want to remind all establishments that you have to be consider-

ate and provide reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities because it is their right,” Alava said.

The statement came after a child with autism was reportedly asked to eat outside

IN BRIEF

Qualified non-residents may also get QCitzen ID

A NON-RESIDENT of Quezon City may now apply for a QCitizen ID as part of the local government’s effort to ensure inclusivity to its programs.

A qualified non-resident who studies, works, owns a property or conducts business in Quezon City may register under the Non-Resident category with the required documents.

The city government issues four types of QCitizen ID -- the Resident, Senior Citizen, Person with Disability and Non-Resident -- allowing different sectors to access appropriate services and benefits.

The local government encouraged all eligible residents and qualified individuals to register for the QCitizen ID to fully enjoy the programs and services intended for them.

The QCitizen ID provides access to the city’s programs and social services, such as health check-ups, scholarships, social welfare assistance and discounts wth the city’s partner establishment. Rio Araja

Gov’t housing projects return to UP Los Baños

THE Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) program will return to the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UP-LB) in Laguna, ending a 45-year gap in housing projects on campus, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development said Housing Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling and Jose Camacho Jr., chancellor of University of the Philippines Los Baños, led the launch of the Expanded 4PH-UPLB Rental Housing Project on Thursday, together with DHSUD and university officials.

Camacho said the last housing project implemented inside UP-LB was during the administration of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. in the 1980s, which benefited faculty members.

He noted the swift rollout of the new rental housing project under the Expanded 4PH Program, which was launched two months after an initial meeting on Dec. 19.

“The rental housing is one of the modalities we have introduced under the 4PH,” Aliling said. Rio Araja

Parañaque Nat’l HS to build 12-story classroom

PARAÑAQUE National High School-Main is set to build a 12-storey classroom building to ease overcrowding and improve class scheduling for its more than 16,000 students.

The campus held market sounding activities on Thursday with industry partners who inspected the proposed construction site within the school compound.

Principal Gerry Lumaban said the 12-storey structure, which will house 64 classrooms, is expected to help the school transition to a single-shift daily schedule once completed.

“I think with the completion of the 12-storey, 64-classroom building, we will start with one shift in Grade 7 and another in Grade 10. So, it will depend on the number of classrooms that will be added,” Lumaban said.

The project will be implemented under the Public-Private Partnership for School Infrastructure Project Phase III (PSIP III). Rolando Ng III

a popular coffee chain in a Pampanga mall due to a “no outside food” policy.

Photos of the incident went viral after being posted by a television station, prompting concerns on social media.

Alava cited Republic Act No. 7277, or the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, which requires necessary and appropriate adjustments in facilities, workplaces, schedules, assistive technologies and policies to enable PWDs to fully exercise their rights.

“It is clearly stated that we should be considerate and create avenues for persons with disabilities. So, we are call-

ART FOR A CAUSE. Children from the Angels of Rendu Art Club prepare their artworks for ‘Raising HeArts,’ a fundraising exhibit at the Hospicio de San Jose in Manila on Friday, February 20, 2026. Proceeds will support the club’s art development program for children from the Hospicio and other Daughters of Charity–run institutions. Norman Cruz

ing for a review of the ‘no outside food’ policy, and we will also coordinate with our different member agencies because the NCDA is a council,” he said.

Beyond policy review, Alava said the NCDA has been working with Persons with Disability Affairs Offices, private partners and other organizations to conduct disability-sensitivity training nationwide through an online learning platform.

“The NCDA created an online learning system. In that system, we have modules similar to Coursera, and part of those modules includes disabilitysensitivity training,” he said.

PUSH BACK VS. VAT ON POWER. Members of Gabriela stage a Black Friday protest calling for the removal of the 12% Value-Added Tax on electricity, arguing the levy worsens the burden of rising power costs on poor households. Edd Castro

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Customs has seized an estimated P200 million worth of alleged illicit cigarettes and manufacturing equipment in a raid on a warehouse in Tanza, Cavite, as authorities intensified their campaign against illegal tobacco operations.

The BOC said the operation was carried out through a letter of authority and mission order for alleged violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act.

The enforcement action formed part of the agency’s stepped-up drive to curb smuggling and dismantle unregistered cigarette manufacturing sites.

Initial findings showed that authorities discovered 11 cigarette manufacturing machines, two generator sets, one forklift, and finished cigarette products under 10 different brand names inside the facility.

The equipment and tobacco products were believed to be used in the large-scale production and distribution of untaxed cigarettes.

The seized items will undergo final inventory and assessment by the BOC, in coordination with other concerned government agencies, to determine the appropriate charges and possible forfeiture proceedings under existing laws.

Agents seize P200m illegal cigarettes in Tanza facility Solon

pushes

for

Nat’l

Autism Care law

By Maricel Cruz

A LAWMAKER has filed a bill seeking to establish a comprehensive national framework for the early detection, intervention, lifelong care, and full societal inclusion of persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Zambales 1st District Rep. Jefferson Khonghun, who also serves as House Deputy Speaker, filed House Bill 7878, or the proposed National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Act.

“Persons with autism and their families deserve a society that supports them from the earliest signs through every stage of life,” Khonghun said.

“This bill institutionalizes early detection, evidence-based interventions, inclusive education, equal employment opportunities, and robust community-based support—paving the way from diagnosis to dignified, independent, and meaningful participation in Philippine society,” he added.

The measure recognizes persons with ASD as individuals with disabilities entitled to the full protection of their rights, dignity, and inherent worth under Philippine law.

The bill mandates the creation and implementation of a National Plan of Action for Autism Spectrum Disorder, to be led by the National Council on Disability Affairs in coordination with national government agencies, local government units, civil society organizations, autism self-advocates, parents’ groups, and other stakeholders.

Lenten Pilgrimage to bring faithful to Negros Occidental

ON ITS eleventh annual Lenten journey, nonprofit Catholic pilgrimage apostolate Green Faith Travels brings pilgrims to the province of Negros Occidental to pray in 16 churches and visit museums, historical landmarks, and heritage sites, from March 12 to 16. The Lenten pilgrimage, titled “A Carmelite Journey: Lenten Pilgrimage to Bacolod, Negros Occidental,” with Rev. Fr. Reynante Miguel Azul Lavado of the Order of Discalced Carmelites as pilgrimage chaplain, will be highlighted by a one-day retreat at the Our Lady’s Hill Carmelite Center of Spirituality in Bago City.

The Lenten pilgrimage will cover the dioceses of San Carlos (Northern Negros Occidental), Kabankalan (southern Negros Occidental), and Bacolod (Central Negros Occidental). In the Diocese of Bacolod, pilgrims will pray at San Diego de Alcala Pro-Cathedral in Silay City. In Talisay City, San Nicholas de Tolentino Parish-Recolotes and Diocesan Shrine of San Vicente Ferrer and St. James the Greater church and Our Lady of Medju -

gorje, the first replica church in Asia and the third in the world of the original church in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In Bacolod City: the Carmel of St. Joseph and St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus (Carmelite mon astery); Queen of Peace Parish-Redemptorist; San Sebastian Cathedral; Sacred Heart Shrine and Seminary; San Antonio Abad Parish; Our

grotto of St. Padre Pio; and St. Ezekiel Moreno Monastery and Reliquarium. They will also pray at Talan-awon ni Maria of the Marian Missionaries of the Holy Cross in Murcia; St. John the Baptist Parish in Bago City; Diocese of San Carlos, pilgrims will

The Carmelite monastery in Bacolod City

OPINION

Honor Blanco Cabie

The urgent-important matrix in PH reg’l literatures

HAVING been involved deeply in re-

gional literatures for nearly four decades, we have seen the undeniable literary affluence in the different regions, and the urgent need to compile all and translate the same for the appreciation of other Filipinos.

The government, which has the logistics at its disposal, should help private and individual agencies in gathering all such materials that point to the culture of this Austronesian race.

This does not suggest that nothing has been done and is being done. For the government has done much in fact in compiling such cultural stones in the various regions.

What we are suggesting is those efforts should be underlined by more vigorous and determined efforts, not only for one or two particular regions but for all.

Compiling these cultural pebbles in their various genres would be a good step in the right direction, one that would include not just writing down the oral tradition but keeping the tradition on tape and supporting visuals.

Good Scholars, Translators and Teachers Needed

The search for good translators, scholars and teachers in this discipline must not be ignored in this worthy endeavor to catch for posterity a rich culture that should never be blown away before much too long.

At the same time, the government, through the Dept. of Education and the Commission on Higher Education, should look at the curriculum once more and put urgent revisions in the literature and culture discipline.

We have faith in the direction the government has taken to gather into one mighty compendium a fertile and luxuriant culture in the different regions for the recognition and appreciation of every region which breathes the culture of the Filipino.

Such efforts cannot be completed overnight.

But, like a melody that must be unbroken and eventually consummated, the initial bars have been played. And played well.

Everyone who has a stake in the rich cultural tradition of this multi-lingual, multi-ethnic society of 117 million – as of the latest count – must participate in gathering and translating for younger generations of Filipinos a fruitful legacy which helps identify the Filipino in the community of nations.

That legacy protects the Filipino’s roots.

The roots embrace his strength.

His strength carries him through the years and into the future.

Translating regional literature in the

Philippines is both important and urgent to prevent the loss of unique cultural narratives, promote national unity, and decolonize a literary canon that has historically favored works in English and Tagalog.

There is an immediate concern to collect, record, and translate oral tales, myths, and folk songs to ensure their survival in written form.

With over 180 languages spoken across the archipelago, translating these works into Filipino and English ensures that diverse regional voices and “folk” traditions are not lost to modernization or ignored by the capital-centric literary scene

There is an immediate concern to collect, record, and translate oral tales, myths, and folk songs to ensure their survival in written form

Arguably, many regional works from north and south of Metro Manila contain indigenous wisdom, oral traditions, and unique cultural histories that are at risk of being lost.

We agree with scholars and language experts who chorus that translation acts as a bridge between geographically separated and ethno-linguistically diverse communities, revealing shared experiences and creating a more holistic, truly national literature.

There should be a correction of literary imbalances, after regional literatures have often been dismissed as “subliteratures” or “vernacular” compared to the dominant literature in English, which is often bourgeois and Manila-centric and Tagalog – while it is the basis of the national language – is perceived by many as not Filipino.

Young generations are increasingly taught only in English or Tagalog in schools, which diminishes interest in reading in regional languages and leads to the decline of those languages, accordng to scholars and language specialists.

There is what scholars describe as generational knowledge loss, with older writers and oral tradition keepers dying, and their unrecorded or untranslated works lost forever.

Translating allows us to move beyond “colonial boundaries” and redefine Philippine literature by valuing local voices that have long been marginalized.

Next chapter, please, Luzviminda.

Two men and a tree

WAITING for Godot is a 1952 play, a tragicomedy, by Irish author Samuel Beckett. I had known of it since university days, many years ago, but I had never read it or seen it. I had always been daunted by its reputation – absurd, complicated, philosophical. I had always feared I’d be too dumb to get it. I finally saw it last week. The performance was staged by Teatro Meron at the Mind Museum, and was directed by Ron Capinding.

“Stunning simplicity” is a phrase that easily comes to mind. On the stage is a tree. Two tramps sit by it, stand beside it, and walk around it. They are waiting for somebody named Godot, although it was not explained who Godot was or why they are waiting for him. Didi is Vladimir, the more imposing of the two. He urinates frequently and with great pain. With him is the smaller, more comical Gogo, or Estragon, who hobbles because of a foot injury. The two go back a long way, and appear to have no families of their own. Gogo easily becomes frustrated at the idea of waiting, while his friend keeps him in check. It appears Godot did not appear the previous day, so they are waiting again, hoping he would

show up this time. They lighten up when they get caught up in conversation or meet other people, because it helps them pass the time. They meet Pozzo and Lucky, a master and a servant, respectively. Pozzo flaunts his entitlement while Lucky does his master’s every bidding, carrying his things, even to his own great pain. Lucky is almost catatonic, speaking only when asked to “think,” and even then spewing incoherent babble. Soon after master and servant leave, a boy comes; Godot is sending word that he would not be able to come but that he would do so the following day.

Here’s a play on nothing and everything

Didi and Gogo pass the night, looking forward to the next morning.

The following day, they happen upon Pozzo and Lucky again. But Pozzo has gone blind and has no memory whatsoever of ever meeting them. The boy re-

Focus on national interests

THE echoes calling on 2028 potential presidential candidates – just 26 months away to E-Day – to remain focused on Philippine national interests have been unmistakably loud and clear.

We refer to the bar of caution raised this week by Stratbase Institute President and CEO Victor Andres Manhit, where he warned against “soft stance” on the West Philippine Sea, stressing foreign policy should remain anchored on Philippine national interests.

He raised the admonition in a chance interview with Manila Standard during the Thursday forum on “Navigating Digital Crossroads: Advancing Cybersecurity and Democratic Resilience in the Indo-Pacific” where he strongly suggested prospective 2028 presidential candidates must maintain an indestructible stance against foreign interference in the country.

The statement admittedly is a declaration emphasizing that national sovereignty is absolute and non-negotiable and calls for an unambiguous stance against external manipulation, framing it as a vital matter of national security and democracy.

It identifies interference as a severe threat that can undermine national cohesion and social stability and calls for identifying and holding accountable anyone – including locals – who colludes with foreign powers to interfere in national affairs

That’s a shot that hits the bull’s eye,

given how Filipino fishermen and the Philippine Coast Guard have been separately and frequently harassed and bullied in the country’s territory and maritime jurisdiction under Philippine law and international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

—“—

Prospective 2028 presidential candidates must maintain an indestructible stance against foreign interference in the country

Following the signing of the Philippine Maritime Zones Act (Republic Act 12064) in Nov. 2024, the West Philippine Sea has been formally defined as the country’s maritime zones on the western side of the archipelago, including its 200-mile territorial sea, the Exclusive Economic Zone, and

maritime features

We agree with Manhit that aspiring candidates, some of whom have started positioning themselves for the presidential ring this early, must remember the importance to have a strong position against any foreign interference in the Philippines. His words: “There should be no weak position on any attempt by foreign government to shape our destiny. Because our destiny is not about the West, it’s not about China. It’s about the destiny of the Filipino people.”

Philippine foreign policy is anchored on national interest by prioritizing sovereignty, security, and economic development above foreign influence.

Rooted in the 1987 Constitution, it focuses on three pillars: protecting territorial integrity – especially the West Philippine Sea – ensuring economic growth, and safeguarding overseas Filipinos.

This “independent” approach seeks a “friend to all, enemy to none” stance, balancing major powers to maintain peace.

Despite shifting administrations, this foundation ensures a consistent, pragmatic approach to foreign relations, acting as a “compass and ballast” in shifting global tides. This policy means the Philippines refuses to be a pawn in great power politics, choosing instead to engage with all nations on the basis of mutual respect and maximum benefit for its people.

As European heads roll from Epstein links, US fallout muted

WASHINGTON, DC – The arrest of former prince Andrew has underlined the striking contrast between Europe, where high-profile, powerful people are being held to account over their links to Jeffrey Epstein, and the United States, where the fallout has been limited.

Only one person has been arrested or convicted in the United States in connection with the activities of the late sex offender — Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s ex-girlfriend and accomplice.

Maxwell is serving a 20-year prison sentence after being found guilty in 2021 of providing minor girls to the wealthy financier, who died in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking.

Epstein cultivated a global network of powerful politicians, business executives, academics and celebrities — many of whom have been tainted by their association with him.

A number of prominent Americans — from former president Bill Clinton to Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates — have had their reputations damaged by their friendships with Epstein, but no one other than Maxwell has faced legal consequences.

And a top US Justice Department official suggested recently that no prosecutions may be forthcoming.

“In July the Department of Justice said that we had reviewed the quote Epstein files and there was nothing in there that allowed us to prosecute anybody,” Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche told CNN.

“And that’s where we remain for what we’ve seen and what we’ve released from the Epstein files,” said Blanche, who is also President Donald Trump’s former personal attorney.

That explanation has not satisfied a number of US lawmakers, both Repub-

turns and tells them Godot cannot make it, but denies he was ever there the previous day. Godot will be there the following day, he assures the men.

The friends become desperate and ponder hanging themselves from the tree, but they have no rope and Gogo’s belt snaps easily. In the end, Godot does not come.

***

This is a sobering show to see days before one’s 50th birthday, when thoughts about meaning and mortality creep into one’s daily, worldly concerns. It is quite plausible I am already more than halfway through my life.

Waiting for Godot is also known for being so open to interpretation because

licans and Democrats, who accuse the Trump Justice Department of dragging its feet.

“The UK has officially done more to prosecute Epstein predators than our own government. Shameful,” Representative Nancy Mace, a Republican from South Carolina, said on X.

“A nation that allows the powerful to escape justice is not a nation of laws,” Mace said. “It is a nation of exceptions. And the exceptions always seem to apply to the same people.”

—“—

Epstein cultivated a global network of powerful politicians, business executives, academics and celebrities

Another Republican lawmaker, Thomas Massie of Kentucky, welcomed prince Andrew’s arrest but said “now we need justice in the United States.”

“It’s time for @AGPamBondi and @ FBIDirectorKash to act!” Massie said on X, referring to Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel.

Epstein files lower trust Senator Ruben Gallego, an Arizona Democrat, blamed the lack of accountability in the United States squarely on Trump, who was once a close friend of Epstein and moved in the same social circles in Florida and New York.

“Countries across the world are holding their Epstein class accountable,” Gallego said on X. “It isn’t happening in America because we have a pedo protector in the Oval Office running a govern-

of so many vague elements. But I was immediately drawn to the idea of waiting. I wondered, thus: if we did not have anything to wait for, would that still be called waiting? Didi and Gogo liked it when they forgot that they were waiting, even momentarily. It helped them pass the time. Still, “passing time,” needs an object, doesn’t it, because one always passes time until something?

The sense that Godot’s coming is akin to death was so strong. It led me to ponder how much of a factor the idea of death is in how people conduct themselves. Would we live differently if we knew our death was there, staring us in the face? Coming tomorrow, or the day after?

ment coverup for him and his friends.” Trump fought for months to prevent release of the Epstein files but eventually signed the law passed by Congress requiring their publication.

The 79-year-old Republican’s name appears in the files repeatedly but he has not been charged with any wrongdoing.

Trump’s right-wing base has long been obsessed with the Epstein saga, and the belief the financier oversaw a sex trafficking ring for the world’s elite. Trump was asked Thursday if any Epstein associates in the United States will “wind up in handcuffs.”

The president sidestepped the question, reiterating his claim that he personally has been “totally exonerated.” He called Andrew’s arrest a “very sad thing.”

A Reuters/Ipsos poll published this week found a majority of Americans -53 percent -- say the Epstein files have “lowered their trust in the country’s political and business leaders.”

Sixty-nine percent told pollsters the Epstein files “show that powerful people in the US are rarely held accountable for their actions.”

While there have been no prosecutions beyond Maxwell, several prominent Americans have resigned from high-profile positions after the files revealed they maintained relations with Epstein after his 2008 conviction for sex offenses. Former US treasury secretary Larry Summers resigned from the board of the OpenAI foundation, and billionaire Thomas Pritzker left the executive chairmanship of Hyatt hotels. Goldman Sachs announced last week that general counsel, Kathryn Ruemmler, a White House lawyer under president Barack Obama, would leave the Wall Street bank at the end of June. AFP

As for the no-show Godot, would Didi and Gogo have been better off doing other things instead of wasting their time waiting? Should there have been a more suitable rope?

The play answers no questions and makes nothing clearer. In fact it makes things murkier and more problematic. In the end, what it leaves us is a reminder that everything is futile and inconsequential, and that we come and go with no discernible dents on the world. This is the gem, at least for me. Nobody is exempt from irrelevance, despite our affectations. People, really, should thus not think so highly of themselves. We really must just do what we can while we are here. adellechua@gmail.com

Trump: 15 days for Iran to make deal

WASHINGTON, DC – President Donald Trump said Thursday (Friday, Manila time) that Iran had at most 15 days to make a deal on concerns starting with its nuclear program, suggesting the United States would attack if it did not.

“We’re either going to get a deal or it’s going to be unfortunate for them,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One. Asked about his timeline, Trump said, “I would think that would be enough time -- 10, 15 days, pretty much maximum.” Trump earlier Thursday had suggested 10 days for Iran’s clerical state to reach an agreement.

Takaichi promises ‘strong’ Japan after poll win

they crushed one of the biggest threats yet to the Islamic republic established in the 1979 revolution that toppled the proWestern shah.

Middle East as he seeks to block Iran from building a nuclear bomb, something Tehran says it is not pursuing.

The letter cited a social media post by Trump on Wednesday, where he said the United States may need to use UK military bases, including one on an Indian Ocean island, “should Iran decide not to make a deal.”

He warned at the event in Washington that the United States “may have to take it a step further” without any agreement, adding: “You’re going to be finding out over the next probably 10 days.”

Trump’s friend and roving envoy Steve Witkoff and the president’s son-in-law

Jared Kushner met Tuesday indirectly in Geneva with Iran’s top diplomat, who said that there was progress.

The talks come a month after Iranian authorities killed thousands of people as

“It’s proven to be over the years not easy to make a meaningful deal with Iran. We have to make a meaningful deal otherwise bad things happen,” Trump told the inaugural meeting of the “Board of Peace,” his initiative to secure stability in Gaza.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to hold talks on February 28 in Israel with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has long advocated tough action against Tehran and ordered a bombing campaign last year.

But Iran warned that US bases, facilities and assets would be “legitimate targets” if the United States follows through on its military threats and attacks.

Amir Saeid Iravani, the Iranian ambassador to the United Nations, made the remarks in a letter to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and the president of the Security Council that was seen by AFP.

Trump has deployed warships, fighter jets and other military hardware to the

“Such a belligerent statement by the President of the United States...signals a real risk of military aggression, the consequences of which would be catastrophic for the region and would constitute a grave threat to international peace and security,” Iravani wrote in the letter.

He called for the Security Council -- the UN’s top decision-making body where Washington has veto power -- to “ensure that the United States immediately ceases its unlawful threats of the use of force.” AFP

MIGHT DISPLAY. In this handout photograph released by the US Navy on Feb. 6, 2026,

(CVN 72), Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) and USS Frank E. Petersen

aircraft carrier

(DDG

replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Kaiser (T-AO-187), and Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Carl Brashear (T-AKE 7), sail in formation in the Arabian Sea. Iran’s atomic energy chief on Feb. 19, 2026, said ‘no country can deprive Iran of the right’ to nuclear enrichment, following fresh US warning that there were ‘many reasons’ to strike the Islamic republic .AFP

UN calls for scam center clampdown in Southeast Asia

GENEVA – The UN human rights agency on Friday called on governments to clamp down on scam centers, which have mushroomed in Southeast Asia and where hundreds of thousands of people have been trafficked into forced labor.

The agency released a report documenting torture, sexual abuse, forced abortions, food deprivation, solitary confinement and other abuses.

“The litany of abuse is staggering and at the same time heart-breaking,” UN Human Rights high commissioner Volker Turk said, calling on governments to act against corruption that was “deeply entrenched in such lucrative scamming operations, and to prosecute the criminal syndicates behind them”.

The UNHCR agency had already said in a 2023 report that hundreds of thousands of people were forced to work in the centres, that other investigations have found are responsible for billions of dollars of online fraud.

The new report said satellite imagery and on-ground reports show that nearly three-quarters of the scam operations are in the Mekong region and have spread to some Pacific Island countries, South Asia, Gulf States, West Africa and the Americas. Based on accounts from victims, police, and civil society groups, the report said forced labourers had described being held in immense compounds resembling self-contained towns, made up of heavily fortified multi-story buildings with barbed wire-topped walls and armed guards.

The report into forced labour at scam centers in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates between 2021 and 2025, reinforced reports of the deprivation that the scam centre workers are put through.AFP

Kim opens rare party congress in North Korea

SEOUL – North Korea’s ruling party has opened a landmark congress, state media said Friday, launching a political spectacle expected to unveil the next phase in the nation’s nuclear weapons program.

Leader Kim Jong Un took centre stage with a speech to start the Workers’ Party congress, a gathering that directs state efforts on everything from house building to war planning.

Party elites packed the cavernous House of Culture in Pyongyang for the once-in-five-years event, which is typically capped with an immense parade

flaunting the military’s latest weapons.

The congress offers a rare look into the workings of a nation where even mundane details are shrouded in secrecy -and will be closely watched for insights into Kim’s long-term thinking.

Kim said North Korea had overcome its “worst difficulties” since the last congress in 2021, and was now entering a new stage of “optimism and confidence in the future”.

“Today, our Party is faced with heavy and urgent historic tasks of boosting economic construction and the people’s standard of living and transforming all

realms of state and social life as early as possible,” he said Thursday, according to state media.

He also singled out “deep-rooted defeatism” and “immaturity in leadership ability” that still hindered the party’s work, a sign of possible reprisals against officials seen to have fallen short.

Kim has already declared this year’s congress will lay out plans to bolster North Korea’s nuclear arsenal.

It has been more than eight years since North Korea’s last nuclear test triggered a man-made earthquake underneath the northern Hamyong mountains. AFP

UN touts panel for ‘human control’ of AI as leaders weigh message

NEW DELHI – A new UN panel on artificial intelligence aims to “make human control a technical reality”, the global body’s chief said Friday as leaders at a New Delhi summit weighed their message on the future of the divisive technology. The flip side of the gold rush surrounding AI is the risk of job disruption, online abuse and the heavy electricity consumption of data centres.

“We are barrelling into the unknown,” UN chief Antonio Guterres told the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, which wraps up later Friday. “The message is

TOKYO – Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pledged Friday to make Japan “strong and prosperous”, while hitting out at China and pledging to keep “hitting the growth button” following her party landslide election win.

“China is intensifying its attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion in the East China Sea and the South China Sea, while also expanding and stepping up its military activities in the areas surrounding our country,” Takaichi told parliament in a policy address.

Echoing her predecessor Shigeru Ishiba, Takaichi also said that Japan was facing “the most severe and complex security environment” since World War II, citing not just China but also Russia and North Korea.

As a result, Takaichi said she will aim this year to revise Japan’s three key defence policy documents, as “changes in the security environment -- such as the emergence of new ways of warfare and the need to prepare for prolonged conflicts -- are accelerating across a wide range of fields.”

She added that she wanted to accelerate discussions on further loosening Japan’s self-imposed ban on the export of lethal weapons.

“This will contribute to strengthening the deterrence and response capabilities of our allies and like-minded partners, while also helping to reinforce Japan’s defence production base and its foundation of civilian technologies,” Takaichi said.

Takaichi, whose ruling LDP party won a two-thirds majority in February 8 snap elections, angered China by suggesting in November that Japan could intervene militarily if Beijing sought to take Taiwan by force. AFP

UK police hold Andrew for hours in probe

SANDRINGHAM, United Kingdom –Britain’s royal family was thrown into crisis Thursday after former prince Andrew was arrested by police and held for hours, in a blow to the monarchy unprecedented in modern British history. The disgraced royal was detained early Thursday on suspicion of misconduct for his links to late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

As Andrew marked his 66th birthday on Thursday, police swooped on the remote Sandringham royal estate in eastern England around 8:00 am.

King Charles III, who has promised police the full support of Buckingham Palace, swiftly issued a rare personally signed statement insisting: “The law must take its course.”

It was a humiliating new blow for Andrew, who was last year stripped of his titles and ousted from his Windsor residence of more than two decades.

Thames Valley Police said in a statement late Thursday: “The arrested man has now been released under investigation.” AFP

Obama’s alien comments included ‘classified’ info

ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE – US President Donald Trump accused his predecessor Barack Obama on Thursday of disclosing “classified” information in his recent viral remarks about the existence of extraterrestrial life.

Obama, in a podcast interview released last week, declared that he believed aliens were real but that he had not seen any evidence of it during his 2009-2017 presidency.

“They’re real, but I haven’t seen them and they’re not being kept in... Area 51,” he told host Brian Tyler Cohen, referring to the top-secret facility at the heart of many UFO conspiracies.

“There’s no underground facility. Unless, there’s this enormous conspiracy and they hid it from the president of the United States.” AFP

Aid convoy to arrive in Cuba in March

HAVANA – An international convoy with humanitarian aid for Cuba, which is battling an economic crisis worsened by an oil blockade imposed by Washington, will arrive in Havana on March 21, organizers said Thursday. The organizers, “Nuestra America Convoy to Cuba,” say they will deliver the aid by air, land and sea to the communist island which has risked being plunged into darkness since US President Donald Trump vowed to starve it of oil last month.

simple: Less hype, less fear. More facts and evidence.”

The United Nations General Assembly has confirmed 40 members for a new group called the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence, he said. The advisory body -- aiming to be to AI what the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is to global warming -- was created in August.

“Science-led governance is not a brake on progress” but can make technological development “safer, fairer, and more widely shared”, Guterres said. AFP

“The convoy will deliver urgently needed food, medicine, medical supplies, and essential goods to communities facing acute shortages as a result of the intensified US siege that has disrupted fuel imports, grounded flights, and strained hospitals and critical infrastructure,” the group said in statement. It describes itself as an international coalition of trade unionists, parliamentarians, humanitarian organizations and public figures including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg -- who was expelled from Israel last year after trying to board a flotilla with aid destined for Gaza. AFP

JOB SECURITY. People react to tear gas during a protest outside the Congress building, where Argentina’s President Javier Milei’s labor reform is being treated, in Buenos Aires on Friday. The contested reforms would make it easier to hire and fire workers in a country where job security is already hard to come by, and would also reduce severance pay, limit the right to strike, increase work hours and restrict holiday provisions. AFP

MILITARY

Nimitz-class

USS Abraham Lincoln

Jr.

121), Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet

THE ECONOMY, STUPID. US President Donald Trump steps off Air Force One after returning to the nation’s capital on Friday at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Trump traveled to Rome, Georgia, and spoke about the economy while visiting

steel plant and restaurant. Trump later said

Alcaraz fights back, books last four berth in Qatar meet

DOHA—Carlos Alcaraz came from behind to beat Karen Khachanov on Thursday and book his spot in the semifinals of the Qatar Open but it was the end of the road for Jannik Sinner as he lost in three sets to Jakub Mensik.

Playing his first tournament since completing his career Grand Slam at the Australian Open earlier in February, Alcaraz will next face Andrey Rublev for a spot in the final in Doha.

“It was a really close and tight match,” Alcaraz said after his 6-7 (3/7), 6-4, 6-3 quarter-final win.

“I think Karen was playing great, but I knew I’d had my chances. I just didn’t take them in the first set, so it was the time to keep going and try to keep fighting.

“I’m just really proud about the way that I (fought).”

The first set rumbled towards a tiebreak as neither Alcaraz nor Khachanov was able to force a breakthrough on the other’s serve.

Khachanov then raced into a 6-1 lead in the breaker before finally converting set-point at the third time of asking.

But seven-time Grand Slam winner Alcaraz forced his way back into the tie by breaking Khachanov to 15 in the fifth game of the second frame.

Alcaraz repeated the trick by pouncing on the Russian’s serve at 2-2 to get his nose ahead in the third set.

The world number one then broke the seventh seed in the ninth game to seal his spot in the last four in style.

There he will meet fifth seed Rublev after the Russian won his quarter-final encounter with former world number three Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6 (7/2).

World number two Sinner went down 7-6 (7/3), 2-6, 6-3 to sixth seed Mensik as the Italian’s comeback from Australian Open semi-final defeat came to an early end.

“Before the match I knew about Jannik’s quality. A great guy, a great champion. Already what he has done in his young career, it’s pretty impressive,” 20-year-old Mensik said.

“But even with that thought, I came to the match to win it, and actually having a winning mindset.”

Mensik will play Arthur Fils in the semi-finals, following the Frenchman’s straight-sets victory over Jiri Lehecka.

Solar Spikers, Cool Smashers clash; Foxies vs. Thunderbelles

CREAMLINE seeks to extend its early surge but braces for a resurgent Capital1 side in what promises to be another unpredictable showdown in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference preliminaries Saturday at the FilOil Playtime Centre.

With Farm Fresh colliding with ZUS Coffee in the nightcap, the twin bill could serve as another reminder that in this conference, nothing comes easy – and no lead is ever safe.

Three weeks into the season-ending tournament organized by Sports Vision, the narrative has shifted from powerhouse dominance to weekly uncertainty. Galeries Tower’s stunning four-set reversal of erstwhile unbeaten Nxled underscored the league’s growing parity. Reputation, on paper talent, and early momentum have offered no guarantees in a conference that continues to defy predictions.

Creamline knows this all too well.

After being shut down by PLDT in its opener, the Cool Smashers responded with four-set victories over Choco Mucho and ZUS Coffee. Coach Sherwin Meneses has gradually blended experience with returning firepower, creating a lineup that appears to be peaking – but remains wary of the tournament’s volatile nature.

Bernadette Pons, back from national team duties, has reignited Creamline’s attack, leading the scoring in three games. Jema Galanza and Tots Carlos have rediscovered their rhythm, while Pangs Panaga and Bea de Leon continue to anchor the middle with authority. Behind them, Jia De Guzman orchestrates with trademark precision.

Yet even with that arsenal, Creamline enters its 4 p.m. duel with Capital1 knowing that control in this conference is an illusion.

Anisimova ends Andreeva’s title defense in teary match

DUBAI—Amanda Anisimova ended a tearful Mirra Andreeva’s Dubai title defence on Thursday with a comeback 2-6, 7-5, 7-6 (7/4) victory in the quarter-finals.

The second-seeded American trailed the fifth seed Russian Andreeva by a set and a break before rallying back to complete a two-hour 38-minute win.

She booked a place in the semi-finals of a WTA 1000 event for the fourth time in her career.

“I was almost in tears there at the end,” Anisimova said. “It made me emotional seeing her like that. I feel we both won today.”

Anisimova next faces fellow American Jessica Pegula who beat Dane Clara Tauson 6-3, 2-6, 6-4.

Andreeva took the first set with two breaks and leapt to a 2-0 advantage in the second set before Anisimova retaliated and clinched the next five games.

Anisimova was broken serving for the second set and it was Andreeva’s turn to fight back as she took three games in a row to level.

She broke again to take the quarterfinal clash into a deciding set.

Anisimova served for the match at 5-3 but Andreeva sliced and lobbed to stay alive and soon drew level.

Andreeva then served for the victory

but she could not close at 6-5 and the contest went to a deciding tiebreak. Anisimova upped her level to take the breaker and hugged a sobbing Andreeva at the net, telling her she was “amazing”.

‘I root for her’

In the night session, Coco Gauff made it three Americans in the semi-finals with a merciless 6-0, 6-2 dismissal of Filipina rising star Alexandra Eala.

In front of a buoyant Filipino-majority crowd, Gauff took the first nine games of her match before Eala finally got on the board.

The third-seeded Gauff, who struggled on serve in the previous round, committing a whopping 16 double faults, struck her eighth of the match to give Eala a lifeline and surrender a break.

That was the last blip from Gauff,

who wrapped up the win on the 67-minute mark to reach her second Dubai semi-final.

“I think tennis needs more of this,” Gauff said, speaking of the raucous atmosphere created by Eala’s fans who have sold out the stadium for her matches all week.

“It’s great just to see a nation so proud of someone, especially a nation that’s pretty under-represented in this sport. I think it’s pretty cool to see.

“I also liked, even at 6-0, 4-1 or 4-0, she was smiling. I think that’s something that you can’t buy that. I see why people want to root for her. I root for her, when I’m not playing her, of course.” Gauff will take on seventh seed Elina Svitolina in the last four after the twotime Dubai champion beat Croatian lucky loser Antonia Ruzic. AFP

McIlroy shares Riviera clubhouse lead as Rai charges

LOS ANGELES—Rory McIlroy weathered drenching rain and gusting winds to fire a five-under par 66 and seize a share of the clubhouse lead at the Genesis Invitational, where Aaron Rai was six-under through 16 holes when darkness halted play.

Northern Ireland star McIlroy, who completed his career Grand Slam with a Masters triumph last year, had six birdies and a bogey and was joined in the clubhouse on five-under by American Jacob Bridgeman.

Both came back strong from a rain delay of almost three hours, the soaking showers giving way to gusting winds in the afternoon.

World number one Scottie Scheffler was among the late starters who struggled. He was unable to find a birdie to balance a double-bogey and three bogeys that left him five-over through 10 holes and sharing last place when darkness fell.

Meanwhile England’s Rai was rolling. Three-under through 12 holes, he birdied 13, 15 and 16 to surge to the top of the leaderboard, where he’ll hope to stay when the round resumes on Friday.

While Scheffler’s tee time was delayed, McIlroy started on time and was two-under through three holes.

He came back from the delay to roll in a 30-foot birdie putt at the fourth, then added a 19-foot birdie at

the eighth and a birdie at the par-five 11th.

A bogey at 16 briefly dropped him out of the lead, but McIlroy responded with a birdie at the par-five 17th.

“I’ve definitely got more comfortable playing in conditions like this over the past few years as I’ve gotten more comfortable in controlling my ball flight,” McIlroy said. “I’ve started to just really enjoy this style of golf.

“Honestly, I haven’t always had the skill set to excel in (the conditions),” he said. “To start to enjoy them and have the shots to succeed on days like this, that’s a really satisfying thing to be able to be, you know, nearly 20 years into a career and still feel like you’re getting better at some aspects of the game.”

‘Pretty tricky’

McIlroy said playing in the rain posed little problem. Play was halted as water pooled on the already soaked Riviera Country Club course -- the classic layout in Pacific Palisades where he has come up empty in eight prior starts.

Instead, he said, it was the afternoon winds that made it “pretty tricky.”

Bridgeman, a 26-year-old American chasing his first PGA Tour title, said the same, but he reveled in the challenge. AFP

Sinag Liga Asya spotlights Cebu as host of SLA Jr. world basketball tilt

By Minerva Newman

CEBU CITY—Sinag Asya Sports Management & Promotions, also known as Sinag Liga Asya (SLA), will spotlight Cebu as host of the 2026 SLA Jr. World Showcase, a basketball tournament on July 1 to 5, featuring 50 elite junior teams from the Philippines and abroad.

“This is more than just a tournament. We are expecting a huge crowd from the local and foreign participating teams including the United Prep Canada, led by head coach Tony Tan; teams from the United States, United Arab Emirates, Australia, Austria, and the United Kingdom and local teams from the Philippines, including squads from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao,” said Rocky Chan, SLA chairman at the press conference Wednesday at the Treewoods Residences, Apas, Cebu City.

Chan added that the tournament features different age categories, including Under-13, U-15, U-17, U-19, and U-21 divisions. Games are played across four major venues in Metro Cebu with the historic Cebu Coliseum to host the grand opening ceremony on July 1, where participating teams are expected to march in a colorful parade symbolizing unity and sportsmanship.

Proponents of the 2026 SLA Jr. World Showcase are shown here MBCNewman

Rory McIlroy

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Lady Bulldogs seek perfect record against Lady Tamaraws

DEFENDING champion National University

aims to cap its challenging three-match stretch with a perfect record against Far Eastern University in a rematch of last season’s Final Four in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament today (Saturday) at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

First-year coach Regine Diego emphasized the Lady Bulldogs’ fitness ahead of their 3 p.m. clash with the Lady Tamaraws.

After brushing off University of Santo Tomas’ attempt to extend the match in the season opener, thanks to Sam Cantada’s masterful serving, NU overcame close first and third sets to repel Shai Nitura-led Adamson University last Wednesday.

“Siyempre, management talaga siya.

This is not just a challenge for me, but of course, it’s a challenge for all of the teams in the UAAP. So, we just prepare, and ‘yung mindset talaga namin is ito na talaga ‘yung mangyayari. We cannot do anything about this but manage our stress, manage our recovery, because recovery is also equivalent to training, so that. And also we have to practice din ‘yung pagsa-scout sa kalaban and just do kung ano ‘yung best din namin on Saturday, ‘yun lang,” Diego said.

Cantada has lived up to expectations, leading the league in scoring with 37 points, proving early on to be a worthy heir to Lady Bulldogs legend Bella Belen.

Equally impressive for NU is graduating setter Lams Lamina stepping up as the closer to stabilize the team’s offense when things get tough, finishing off plays initiated by playmaker Abe Pono.

FEU rebounded from its season-opening loss to De La Salle with a straight-set victory over the University of the East last Wednesday. The Lady Tamaraws are now tied with the Lady Falcons at 1-1.

Setter Tin Ubaldo hopes the Lady Tamaraws can elevate their game several notches higher against the Lady Bulldogs.

Eala sees gap vs. top players, commits to continued growth

By Peter Atencio

FILIPINA tennis

sensation

Alex Eala walked away from her breakthrough run at the WTA 1000 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships with both pride and perspective, gaining valuable insight into what separates her from the sport’s elite.

Despite a 6-0, 6-2 quarterfinal defeat to world No. 4 Coco Gauff, the 20-year-old Eala climbed to a new career-high live ranking of No. 32,

proving her rapid rise on the Women’s Tennis Association Tour.

But beyond the rankings and prize money, Eala acknowledged that the match served as a clear reminder of the level she must reach to consistently compete with the world’s best.

“At the end of the day, I think there’s definitely still a gap in terms of level between me and Coco and other players of her caliber,” Eala said in her post-match press conference.

Her Dubai campaign earned her 215 ranking points and $98,500 (around P5.7 million), raising her total to 1,432 points. She now sits ahead of players like Sarah Bejlek in the live rankings.

Facing Gauff proved to be a learning experience, as the American star immediately asserted control, breaking Eala’s serve in the open-

ing game and racing to a commanding 10-game winning streak before the Filipina managed to get on the board.

Still, Eala views the defeat not as a setback, but as motivation.

“My job is to try and close that gap, and I think I’m doing that quite well. So I’ll keep working on it and hopefully next time it will be a bit tighter,” she said.

Her Dubai run, highlighted by victories over top opponents, reinforced her belief that she belongs on the sport’s biggest stages — even as she continues to refine her game.

Eala now shifts her focus to the prestigious BNP Paribas Open in California beginning March 4, followed by the Miami Open later that month, where she will continue her education against the world’s top competition.

Winter Olympics: Tolentino vows continuity

MILAN, Italy—Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino, this early, has guaranteed the country’s continued participation at the Winter Olympics.

“It’s a continuing process and we at the POC will not stop,” said Tolentino from Manila, over the phone, as the 25th staging of the Winter Olympics entered its closing days.

As of Thursday, 89 of the 116 medals staked in 16 sports and among 92 nations have been contested heading to Sunday’s closing ceremony in the historic town of Verona.

Tolentino, fully in charge of the Philippine representation here, hailed the two athletes that represented the Philippines – alpine skiers Francis Ceccarelli and Tallulah Proulx.

“It’s very difficult to qualify to the Winter Olympics because it’s not just one qualifying (event) but rankings,” said Tolentino, also the cycling and chess chief back home.

“You need to earn the points and how do you do that? You compete and compete and compete,” he added.

Proulx is only 17, and Ceccarelli, 22.

“Tallulah is only 17 and the gold winner in her first event is 35. So, gagaling pa ‘yan. She will still improve. It’s the same with Francis,” said Tolentino.

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio said the agency will continue to work hand in hand with the POC to guarantee continuity.

“We want to see our flag at the Winter Olympics,” said Gregorio, adding that representation is very important in an event where athletes from around the globe are eager to qualify.

“And here is our country qualifying athletes and being represented,” said Gregorio.

“We have four years to make this ‘Wow’ in 2030 (Winter Olympics in France).”

The Philippines made its debut at the Winter Olympics in 1972 in Sapporo, Japan, becoming the first tropical nation and first from Southeast Asia to do so.

ABRA Solid North and Batangas dominated their rivals and shared the lead in Group A of the 2026 MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Preseason Invitational at the Marikina Sports Center. The Abra Weavers cruised past the Quezon City Black Bulls, 88-73, while the Batangas City Tanduay Rum Masters dumped Bacolod Masskara, 106-49, for their fourth straight win in the two-group, 18-team event preceding the MPBL Eighth Season. With the outcome beyond doubt, 81-59, midway through the fourth quarter, Abra had the luxury of fielding its third stringers to wrap up the wire-to-wire triumph.

Ryan Batino posted 16 points and 8 rebounds for the defending champion Weavers, followed by reigning MVP Dave Ildefonso with 14 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists, prized recruit Tucker Molina with 12 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals, and Encho Serrano with 12 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds. Quezon City, which rallied from as far as 42-70, drew 16 points and 2 rebounds from Kenz Rei Diokno, 15 points from Pat Buena, 8 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists from MJ Joson, and 6 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals from Germy Mahinay.

Batangas’ Jhan Nermal tallied 18

Proulx, who is based in Utah, and Ceccarelli, who lives in Tuscany, worked very hard to get here and give their best in their Winter Olympics debut. They competed in the giant slalom and slalom events of alpine skiing, and booked decent finishes when a lot of skiers, even from the host country, crashed out of the competition.

Pilipinas

at the SM Mall of Asia Arena will open new doors for young Filipino athletes aspiring to compete on the world stage.

“This is the first time that we are hosting this in Manila. We have hosted the Asian championships and the Asian Cadets before. Now, we have the Youth League. Now, with the tournament, we are able to develop our youth at the grassroots level,” said Lim during the event’s official launch.

Recognized as the world’s premier international youth karate competition under the World Karate Federation, the Karate 1 Youth League serves as a key pathway for developing future

This is the fourth straight Winter Olympics where the Philippines fielded entries but has yet to win any medal. The POC president said work continues.

“This is the Olympics – the global stage,” said Tolentino.

to attend, highlighting the tournament’s

Lim emphasized the importance of strengthening the country’s talent pipeline.

“Iilan lang ang players natin sa senior level. We need to develop younger ones who can follow their footsteps,” he said.

The event’s staging is also expected to inspire a new generation of Filipino karate practitioners, giving them

exposure to high-level international competition without leaving home soil.

Joining Lim

Despite a 6-0, 6-2 quarter nal defeat to world No. 4 Coco Gau , Alexandra Eala climbed to a new careerhigh live ranking of No. 32. Dennis B. Mallari

POC president Abraham Tolentino with the PH’s 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympians, Francis Ceccarelli and Tallulah Proulx

global scale.

Tolentino, president of the Philippine Olympic Committee. They were accompanied by

Shown here are (from left)

Ryan Batino delivers for Abra.

TAX CAMPAIGN.

Department of Finance

Secretary Frederick Go and Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza lead the 2026 National Tax Campaign at the Philippine International Convention Center on Feb. 13, 2026.

The kickoff signals the start of the bureau’s nationwide effort to strengthen voluntary compliance and enhance the delivery of services to taxpayers.

¥371 billion

Japan funding for 11 projects

$13.96 billion

PH to sign $2.4-b new Japan-funded projects

By Othel V. Campos and Thony Rose Lesaca

T$5.92 billion

Outstanding ODA loan from Japan Japan loan under Marcos gov’t

PH exported $3.8-b Toyota parts in 2025

TOYOTA Motor Philippines

Corp. (TMP) president Masando Hashimoto said Thursday the Philippines has evolved into a vital export and production base for the automotive group, generating $3.83 billion in parts exports and selling more than 230,000 vehicles in 2025.

Speaking at a meeting of the Philippine Joint Economic Council and the Japan-Philippines Economic Coordination Committee in Manila, Hashimoto said the 230,000 units sold last year represented a 46-percent market share. This performance has placed the Philippines among the top 10 markets for Toyota globally.

The company has reached a milestone of more than 2 million cumulative units sold, with about 1.3 million of those vehicles currently in use on Philippine roads.

“While we build an industrial base here, we also earn foreign currency for the nation,” Hashimoto said, highlighting the significant export contributions of the local operations.

Toyota Aisin Philippines is a primary driver of this growth, shipping more than 6.5 million transmissions to global facilities and generating $3.83 billion in total revenue.

Other members of the Toyota Suppliers’ Club of the Philippines, such as YazakiTorres Manufacturing and Denso Philippines, remain integrated into the global supply chain.

The manufacturing hub in Santa Rosa provides employment for about 4,500 workers. Hashimoto noted the importance of the local workforce, saying that “the Philippines’ greatest asset has always been its people.” Beyond local manufacturing, the company has exported talent, with about 200 graduates from the Toyota Motor Philippines School of Technology now working at dealerships across Japan.

Othel V. Campos

The projects demonstrate sustained momentum in Philippines-Japan development cooperation and continued alignment between the infrastructure priorities of Manila and the financing support of Tokyo. Go presented the pipeline during a joint meeting of the Philippine-Japan Research Council and the JapanPhilippines Economic Committee.

“All these figures speak volumes.

NEW YEAR RECEPTION.

The European Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines (ECCP) hosts a Chinese New Year reception attended by more than 300 toplevel executives, diplomats, policymakers and key stakeholders from across the business community. Attending the event are (from left) Claro Bonilla of ABS-CBN Foundation, ECCP executive director Florian Gottein, FIAG chairman Alfred Reiterer, Tilo Kahl of Germany and Razvan Alexandrescu of România. Alexandrescu, who visited the Philippines for the first time upon the invitation of Reiterer, generously donated a valuable painting, which he won at the event to support the Gymnastic Association of the Philippines (GAP) under the leadership of Cynthia Carrion. ECCP president Paulo Duarte underscored the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility in strengthening bilateral trade and investment ties.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

AYALA Land Inc. (ALI) said Friday it posted a consolidated net income of P39.1 billion in 2025, up 39 percent from 2024 on steady contributions from leasing and hospitality units and gains from portfolio management. The property developer reported consolidated revenues of P190.2 billion, up 5 percent year-on-year, while net income from core operations grew 8 percent to P30.6 billion.

Ayala Land also reported plans to raise up to P40 billion through a bond offering this year to refinance debt and fund general corporate requirements. The company’s property development arm generated P113.9

HE Philippines is preparing to sign 11 new projects with Japan worth ¥371.31 billion or about $2.41 billion for implementation from April 2026 to March 2027 under Japan Fiscal Year 2026, Department of Finance Secretary Frederick Go said Thursday. Ayala Land’s income jumped 39% to P39.1 b in 2025 Treasury raises P235b from 10-year notes

THE Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) raised P235 billion in new money from its offering of 10-year fixedrate treasury notes (FXTN) 10-74, closing the offer period early on overwhelming demand.

The BTr truncated the original three-day window of Feb. 18 to 20 after hitting its target on the first day of issuance. Of the total amount, P107.07 billion was secured via a ratesetting auction, with the remaining P127.93 billion sourced through a tap facility.

The security matures in 2036 and is intended to serve as the new benchmark for 10-year government borrowing.

Total tenders at the auction reached

They reflect trust in the Philippines’ economic direction, confidence in our institutions, and a shared belief in long-term partnership. This is good news. It reflects sustained growth, macroeconomic stability, and structural reforms,” Go said.

The JFY 2026 pipeline follows three loan agreements targeted for signing before the close of Japan’s Fiscal Year 2025 in March 2026. Those agreements

have a combined value of ¥243.31 billion or about $1.58 billion to be extended by the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

Among the flagship undertakings supported by Japanese financing is the ¥220-billion Metro Manila Subway. The country’s first underground railway system is expected to transform urban mobility, reduce congestion costs and unlock economic potential across the capital region.

Other key projects include the ¥1.67-billion Central Mindanao Highway, designed to connect communities and strengthen agricultural logistics, and the ¥21.63-billion Metro Rail Transit Line 3 rehabilitation project signed recently.

billion in revenues, up 1 percent from a year earlier. The growth was supported by solid bookings for estate lots and office-for-sale projects alongside a pickup in residential revenues, despite softer market sentiment.

Combined revenues from office and estate lots for sale rose 25 percent to P22.5 billion, led by projects in Arca South, Circuit Makati and Centrala. Full-year sales reservations remained flat at P142.3 billion.

In 2025, the firm launched projects worth P60.4 billion, primarily consisting of residential developments and prime commercial and industrial lots.

Leasing and hospitality revenues grew 7 percent to P48.7 billion.

P328.5 billion, or 10.9 times the initial P30 billion offering, allowing the notes to be priced at a coupon rate of 5.925 percent. Market analysts said the launch was timed ahead of an anticipated policy rate cut by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. The tap facility alone attracted P135.8 billion in total tenders, signaling robust investor appetite. While the new money sale has concluded, the BTr said the security remains available through an exchange offer leg. Holders of FXTN 05-77, FXTN 03-29, RTB 10-05, RTB 15-01 and FXTN 03-30 have until noon on Feb. 20 to exchange their holdings for the new notes.

Shopping center revenues rose 5 percent to P24.2 billion on improved occupancy, while office leasing increased 5 percent to P12.2 billion. Hospitality revenues climbed 9 percent to P10.6 billion, aided by the acquisition of New World Makati Hotel.

The company added 77,000 square meters of new commercial space and completed renovations at Ayala Center Cebu and TriNoma. Capital expenditures for the year totaled P92.9 billion.

Ayala Land president and chief executive Anna Ma. Margarita Bautista-Dy said the company delivered healthy growth despite a challenging environment.

buying Korean hotpot chain

B2

DA refines policy to stabilize prices

B3

BSP seen cutting rates in April

B4

DOT suspends hotel star ratings classification

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) said it is temporarily suspending the star rating classification assessment for hotels, resorts and apartment hotels effective immediately.

The agency said the suspension will remain in place until further notice as it reviews and enhances current guidelines to align with the 2024 National Accommodation Standards (NAS).

The DOT Office of Tourism Standards and Regulation-Standards Monitoring and Enforcement Division (OTSR-SMED) will defer all on-site assessments. These include re-assessment requests for properties that were previously evaluated.

Officials said that all applications received before the issuance of the advisory will be prioritized once the star rating process resumes.

“We understand the importance of the National Accommodation Standards or the Star Rating Classification Program and assure everyone that this pause is intended to ensure improved efficiency, transparency and overall service quality upon resumption,” the department said.

While the star ratings are on hold, DOT regional offices will continue to process new and renewal applications for the accreditation of accommodation establishments.

PSEi gains for third day as investors cheer rate cut

LOCAL shares rose further Friday as investors welcomed the 25-basispoint rate cut by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and expectations of another reduction in the second half of the year.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index ended the week at 6,465.12, up 57.97 points, or 0.90 percent. The broader all shares index closed at 3,570.68, up 23.36 points, or 0.66 percent.

“The PSEi advanced 0.9 percent for a third straight trading session, bucking regional softness as foreigners reversed early selling and turned strong net buyers into the close,” AB Capital Securities said.

Philstocks Financial Inc. research head Japhet Tantiangco said the market’s jump was driven by the BSP’s latest policy rate cut.

All sectors rose, led by financials, which advanced 1.68 percent, and mining and oil, which went up 1.1 percent. Value turnover was tepid at P5.37 billion. Advancers edged out decliners, 107 to 93. Foreign buying amounted to P351.89 million.

Puregold Price Club Inc. was the day’s top index gainer, climbing 3.85 percent to P40.50, while ACEN Corp. was at the bottom, declining 3.23 percent to P2.70.

The peso depreciated to 58.15 against the U.S. dollar Friday from 57.996 on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Asian equities were mixed and oil prices rose on Friday after Donald Trump ratcheted up Middle East tensions by hinting at possible military strikes on Iran if it did not make a “meaningful deal” in nuclear talks.

The remarks fanned geopolitical concerns and cast a pall over a tentative rebound in markets following an AI-fueled sell-off this month.

Traders are also looking ahead to the release of US data later in the day that will provide a fresh snapshot of the world’s top economy.

A slew of forecast-beating figures over the past few days has lifted optimism about the outlook but tempered expectations for more interest rate cuts. Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP

Jollibee buying Korean hotpot chain Shabu

All Day for $87m

By Jenniffer B. Austria

JOLLIBEE Foods Corp. said Friday it is expanding its footprint in South Korea through the $87-million acquisition of All Day Fresh Co, Ltd., the operator of popular hotpot brand Shabu All Day.

The Philippine fast-food giant said the transaction would be executed through its 70-percent owned subsidiary Jolli-K Co. Ltd. This follows Jollibee Group’s 2024 acquisition of Compose Coffee as the company con-

tinues to aggressively target the Korean market.

Established in October 2014, All Day Fresh operates 169 stores across South Korea as of January 2025. The brand leads the country’s hotpot

sector in both store count and total system-wide sales, generating about $285 million in annual revenue with average per-store earnings of $2.4 million.

Jollibee Group officials said Shabu All Day maintains strong unit economics, reporting a two to threeyear payback period alongside high double-digit margins for earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA).

Once the deal is finalized, the acquisition is expected to provide a

2-percent uplift in revenues and an 8-percent increase in global earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) by 2026. The transaction will also boost the contribution of the international business to approximately 46 percent of total global revenues. The final purchase price remains subject to closing and financing conditions. Jollibee Group chairman Tony Tan Caktiong said the acquisition aligns with the company’s longterm strategy of absorbing profitable, scalable businesses.

AREIT’s income jumps 28% to P9.4b on new acquisitions

REAL estate investment trust AREIT

Inc. reported on Friday that its net income rose 28 percent to P9.4 billion in 2025, supported by fresh acquisitions and steady contributions from its existing properties.

Total revenues grew 26 percent year-on-year to P13.0 billion, the company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange. The performance was led by income from newlyacquired assets in regional hubs including Cebu, Davao and Cagayan de Oro.

mix of office, retail, hotel and industrial land.

main focused on delivering consistent returns to shareholders while maintaining portfolio quality and financial resilience,” he said.

Stockholders approved in December 2025 a P19.5-billion propertyfor-share swap with sponsor Ayala Land Inc. involving Ayala Center Cebu and Ayala Malls Feliz. The transaction is expected to raise the company’s assets under management to approximately P159 billion once completed.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

STATE-RUN Philippine National Oil Co. is seeking a consultant for a planned onshore wind farm in Batangas with an approved contract budget of P75 million.

The company ended the year with gross leasable area of 4.3 million square meters and a portfolio occupancy rate of 99 percent. Assets under management expanded to P139.3 billion across a

“AREIT’s performance in 2025 reflects the strength and quality of our portfolio and our ability to execute growth in a disciplined manner,” AREIT president and chief executive Alberto de Larrazabal said.

“As we continue to scale, we re-

The board also approved a fourthquarter cash dividend of P0.62 per common share, payable on March 20, 2026. This brings the total dividends for 2025 to P2.41 per share, representing a 5.7-percent increase from P2.28 in 2024. Jenniffer B. Austria

The project, located on a 142-hectare property, has an estimated potential capacity of up to 40 megawatts. PNOC will undertake the project with Simlong Energy Development Corp., a subsidiary of AbaCore Capital Holdings Inc.

While PNOC has already conducted a tabletop assessment of the site, the consultant must perform a formal wind assessment to confirm initial findings. The consultant is expected to install wind-measuring instruments on-site to verify the project’s viability.

The wind assessment will last 18 months from the issuance of the notice to proceed, with the subsequent timeline depending on the study’s results.

PNOC and AbaCore have extended their memorandum of agreement until 2028 for the wind farm’s development. PNOC will lead the wind resource assessment, geospatial studies, mapping, and techno-economic analysis.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources recognizes the SM Group for its support of the Extended Producer Responsibility program to reduce plastic use and strengthen waste systems. Shown are (from left) DENR undersecretary for policy, planning and international affairs Jonas Leones; DENR Secretary Raphael Lotilla; SM Supermalls assistant vice president for waste management and sustainability solutions and SM GUUN president George Cheung; SM Investments Corp. head of investor relations and sustainability Timothy Daniels; SM Retail Inc. vice president for sustainability Suyin Liu; Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS) president Jess Reyes; and DENR assistant secretary and Environmental Management Bureau director Jacqueline Caancan.

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources has recognized the SM Group for its support of the Extended Producer Responsibility program, citing the conglomerate’s efforts to reduce plastic use and strengthen waste systems across its business units.

During a Jan. 30 event, the DENR credited SM’s groupwide approach to Republic Act No. 11898, or the EPR Act of 2022. The agency noted the company’s role in advancing recovery, innovation, and circular economy practices that support the national “Zero Waste to Nature” agenda.

“This award is a credit to every part of

the SM group, and we’re very grateful to receive it,” said Timothy Daniels, SM Investments Corp. head of investor relations and sustainability. “From our retail business to our banks and logistics companies, they have been reducing their plastic footprints in their packaging and influencing consumer behavior to use less plastic.”

SM’s property arm, SM Prime Holdings Inc., has partnered with Japanese waste processing firm Guun Co. Ltd. through its #SMWasteFreeFuture project. The partnership converts waste into new materials at a processing factory in Consolacion, Cebu.

The study aims to determine the area’s viability for an energy hub and infrastructure development. If the results are positive, the project will support the company’s goal of diversifying its investment portfolio.

The parties noted that Batangas remains a strategically attractive location for renewable energy because of its role as a center for trade logistics, power generation, and port modernization.

To enhance waste conversion, SM has installed bins labeled for recyclables, disposables, and compostables across its properties nationwide. Recyclables such as bottles and paper are sent to recycling plants, while disposables like straws and rags are converted into fuel for cement kilns. Food scraps are processed into landscaping soil within 48 hours.

“GUUN is a collaboration across the group that ensures consumption or waste is not the end of the economic cycle,” said George Cheung, SM GUUN president and SM Supermalls assistant vice president for waste management and sustainability solutions.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

YELLOW BLACK

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

LISTING CEREMONY. (From left) China Bank Capital Corp. managing director Juan Paolo Colet, Securities and Exchange Commission commissioner McJill Bryant Fernandez, Century Properties Group Inc. managing director Carlo Antonio, chairman Jose E.B. Antonio, and president and CEO Marco Antonio; Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. president Stephanie Marie Zulueta, China Bank Capital president Ryan Martin Tapia, and PNB Capital and Investment Corp. vice president Bernadette Caacbay attend the Feb. 20 listing of CPG’s P5 billion bond at the PDEx.

BCDA, SHFC building housing units in New Clark City

THE Social Housing Finance Corp. and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority have teamed up to develop a 13-hectare residential complex in New Clark City to support the government’s national housing program.

SHFC president and chief executive Federico Laxa met with Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang in Taguig to finalize plans for the development. The project, located in Tarlac, will consist of 41 seven-story buildings designed to provide affordable housing for more than 5,700 BCDA employees and local workers in Central Luzon.

Aboitiz unit seeks ERC nod for solar link

By Alena Mae S. Flores

NORTHERN Luzon Green Power

Inc. is seeking approval from the Energy Regulatory Commission to develop and operate interconnection facilities for its 187.044-megawatt peak Talingaan-Laoag Solar Power Project.

NLGPI, a unit of Aboitiz Renewables Inc., is constructing the solar plant and a 56-megawatt battery energy storage system in Laoag, Ilocos Norte. The company plans to connect the project to the Luzon grid via the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines’ 230-kilovolt Laoag substation.

The company said it must immediately test, commission, and dispatch the project—located near the Ilocos Norte sand dunes—upon completion to avoid delays and meet rising energy demand.

“Thus, it is necessary for NLGPI’s Talingaan-Laoag SPP to be connected to the grid, through the dedicated facility project, at the earliest possible opportunity,” the company said in its filing. The project will connect through a 6.5-kilometer, double-circuit 230-kV line using overhead and underground cables. The dedicated facility is estimated to cost P564.62 million, while the solar project itself is valued at P15.9 billion.

NLGPI and the Department of Energy entered into a solar energy operating contract on April 26, 2024, for the development of resources in Barangay Talingaan.

In accordance with the contract, NLGPI must construct a dedicated point-to-point facility used solely by the solar plant for its connection to the NGCP substation.

According to filings with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, NLGPI targets energizing the plant by the first quarter of 2028, with commercial operations beginning in the third quarter of 2028.

The initiative falls under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program.

The national housing strategy is overseen by Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development

Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling and aims to bridge the country’s housing gap through high-density, vertical developments.

“This initiative demonstrates the shared commitment of both government agencies to expand access to dignified housing,” the agencies said in a joint statement.

The meeting also included BCDA vice president for strategic projects management Randy Viacrusis and BCDA legal services department Samuel Escaño.

Private sector partners also attended, including Kaerland Development Corp. president Juan Paolo Canlas and Hilmarc’s Construction Corp. chairman Efren Canlas.

New Clark City is being positioned as a primary economic hub and alternative metropolis to Manila. By providing on-site housing for workers, the BCDA and SHFC aim to ensure the sustainability of the city’s rapid industrial and commercial growth.

DA refines policy to stabilize rising rice, onion prices

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Agriculture is refining policy measures to stabilize rice and onion prices as retail costs rise despite uneven trends at the farm level.

“The government is actively managing the situation to stabilize the market,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., stressing the need to balance farmer viability with consumer affordability. Recent market reports showed higher retail prices for rice and onions. While onion farmgate prices have dipped, palay prices have improved following the Dec. 31 lifting of a four-month rice import ban.

Manila Standard TODAY

In Nueva Ecija, onion growers have blamed imports for low farmgate prices. However, DA inspections of cold storage facilities showed limited stocks of imported onions, suggesting other market factors may be influencing costs.

Onion prices climbed after shipments expected in late December and early January were delayed by overseas transshipment issues and port closures during the Dec. 24 to Jan.

5 holiday period. The department is reviewing options to lift farmgate prices ahead of the local harvest peak in March and April.

Conversely, analysts attributed the increase in rice prices to supply fluctuations and logistical bottlenecks that delayed imports. Tiu Laurel said rice prices are expected to ease by mid-March with the arrival of imports and the start of the harvest season.

To ease supply pressures, the DA is accelerating the rollout of its “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program in key cities. The initiative provides affordable rice to consumers while supporting farmgate prices for local farmers.

Tiu Laurel said close monitoring and timely intervention will ensure the protection of household budgets without undermining farm incomes and long-term food security.

LSGETCY PROPERTY CORP G/F State Condominium 1, Legaspi Village, 186 Salcedo Street, San Lorenzo, Makati City

NOTICE OF SPECIAL STOCKHOLDER’S MEETING

THE Clark International Airport Corp. announced that the newly constructed Clark Aviation Capital picnic grounds along Gil Puyat Avenue will soon open as a public park in the Freeport Zone.

Designed as a modern, accessible space at no cost, the park will feature jogging and walking paths, wellness facilities, an amphitheater, a playground, a pet park, and expansive open areas.

The development includes a stormwater reservoir for flood mitigation, parking, community gardens, and food and beverage stalls. Planners ensured the preservation of the site’s century-old acacia trees, which were planted during the American colonial period; none were felled during construction.

The picnic grounds are part of CIAC’s sev-

en flagship projects under its Urban Renewal and Heritage Conservation Program, which promotes modern urban planning and sustainability within the Clark Freeport Zone.

Once complete, the park will complement other outdoor areas in Clark, such as the Clark Parade Grounds, Bicentennial Park, and Air Force City Park.

The first phase of development, covering five hectares of the nine-hectare site, is nearly finished and is expected to open to the public soon.

“As we develop the Clark Aviation Capital, we are committed to creating sustainable and inclusive public spaces that improve quality of life and foster stronger communities,” said CIAC president Jojit Alcazar. Othel V. Campos

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Special Meeting of the Stockholders of LSGETCY PROPERTY CORP. will be conducted at G/F State Condominium 1, Legaspi Village, 186 Salcedo Street, San Lorenzo, Makati City, on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. with the following agenda:

1. Call to Order.

2. Certification and Notice of Quorum.

3. Shortening of the corporate term of the Corporation.

4. Approval of the Amendment of its Articles of Incorporation, shortening the term of its corporate existence.

5. Other related business matters under the scope of the special meeting.

6. Adjournment.

Only the stockholders of record as of March 02, 2026 are entitled to notice, and to vote at this meeting.

Pursuant to its By-Laws, stockholders who will not be able to attend the meeting in person may attend the meeting by remote communication, vote in absentia, or appoint the Chairman of the meeting as their proxy. Any instrument authorizing a proxy to act shall be submitted to and received at its Principal Office, or by email at lsgetcy. asst@gmail.com, not later than March 6, 2026. Proxies will be validated on March 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

The procedures for participating in the meeting through remote communication and voting in absentia are set forth in the Corporation’s Information Statement. The Information Statement shall be made available to the stockholders attending through remote communication.

All email communications should be sent to lsgetcy. asst@gmail.com, not later than the designated deadlines above-mentioned.

Makati City, February 18, 2026.

DIGITAL INCLUSION AGREEMENT. ASEAN Business Advisory Council executive Director Patrick Chua and chairman Jose Ma. Concepcion III, Private Sector Advisory Council lead for Digital Infrastructure Myla Villanueva, and GoDigital Philippines chair Mark Gorriceta seal a partnership to support digital inclusion and AI-driven growth ahead of the 2026 ASEAN Summit in the Philippines.

Social Housing Finance Corp. president and chief executive Federico Laxa (fourth from left) meets with Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang (fifth from left) in Taguig City to finalize plans for a 13-hectare, 41-building housing project in New Clark City, Tarlac, providing 5,700 homes under the 4PH program.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor

ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

BSP seen cutting rates in April

Consumer goods growth expected to slow in 2026

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine fast-moving consumer goods sector is entering 2026 with cautious optimism as growth is projected to ease to 3 percent to 4 percent from the 4 to 5 percent seen in 2025, according to industry experts.

Brands are navigating modest economic expansion and shifting consumer priorities that favor specific high-value demographics over broad market appeals.

Worldpanel by Numerator Shopper Insights director Laurice Obana said the industry’s growth would hinge on understanding the lifestyles, habits and spending priorities of Filipino households.

“Brands that tailor their strategies to the needs of high-value segments and reach consumers across multiple touchpoints will be best positioned to thrive this year,” Obana said. The market expansion is largely led by older consumers, overseas Filipino worker (OFW) households, pet owners and beauty-conscious buyers.

The “silver market,” which represents 16 percent of the population, spends an average of 10 percent more than younger generations. These older consumers prioritize health and wellness products including plant-based alternatives, supplements and fitness items.

Purchasing patterns vary significantly across these groups.

OFW households drive larger basket sizes through bulk purchases and cross-category bundles. Meanwhile, pet-owning households now make up 67 percent of Filipino homes and are fueling demand for both pet food and animal-safe household cleaners. Local and smaller beauty brands are also gaining traction as skincare and cosmetics sales rise through modern retail and online platforms.

Consumer touchpoints are diversifying as supermarkets, hypermarkets and market stalls rebound alongside the continued expansion of discounters and e-commerce.

By Thony Rose Lesaca

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is expected to reduce interest rates by another 25 basis points at its April 23 policy meeting, which would bring the benchmark rate to 4.0 percent and likely signal the end of the current easing cycle, BMI said.

The projection follows the BSP Monetary Board’s decision on Thursday to reduce its overnight borrowing rate by 25 basis points to 4.25 percent. The move was supported by manageable inflation and signs of recovery in economic sentiment, but BMI noted that growth remains a primary concern for the central bank alongside price stability.

Economic momentum is expected to remain subdued through the first half of 2026 as sluggishness from late 2025 persists, it said. Analysts pointed to domestic and external challenges, including a corruption probe affecting government infrastructure spending and 19 percent reciprocal tariffs on US exports impacting the trade sector.

“Government infrastructure outlays continue to be plagued by the corruption probe. The export sector also fac-

es renewed pressure as the effects of the 19 percent ‘reciprocal’ tariffs on US exports start to bite,” BMI said. If the April cut materializes, the Fitch Solutions unit expects it to be the final move in the cycle. “We expect the April rate cut that we forecast to mark the end of the easing cycle, leaving the terminal rate at 4.0 percent,” the group said. The outlook accounts for a projected uptick in inflation driven by higher electricity tariffs and the potential pass-through effects of flexible rice tariffs. BMI also warned that lowering rates below 4.00 percent could trigger depreciatory pressure on the local currency. While the latest cut narrowed the interest rate differential between the Philippines and the US to 50 basis points,

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) will begin a feasibility study for a mass rail transit system in Cebu by October 2026 to bolster regional economic growth and ease commuter congestion, a top official said Friday.

DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the agency is prioritizing projects in Cebu to fulfill a presidential directive to accelerate infrastructure

IN BRIEF

DBP, Camarines Sur sign P3.5-b loan deal

STATE-OWNED Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and the provincial government of Camarines Sur signed a P3.5-billion term loan facility to fund priority development projects and accelerate economic growth in the largest province in the Bicol region.

DBP president and chief executive Michael de Jesus said the funding support under the Assistance for Economic and Social Development (ASENSO) for LGUs Financing Program will bankroll 112 projects in Camarines Sur.

These initiatives include the construction of healthcare centers, hospitals, school buildings, roads and agricultural facilities.

“DBP takes pride in assisting the Camarines Sur provincial government in projects that will improve the lives of Camarinenses—from strengthening infrastructure and improving healthcare delivery, to fostering education and expanding access to essential social services and livelihood opportunities,” de Jesus said.

The lender is the ninth largest bank in the country in terms of assets. It provides credit support to 4 priority sectors: infrastructure and logistics; micro, small and medium enterprises; the environment; and social services and community development.

Chevron expands PH retail network

C HEVRON Philippines Inc. (CPI) expanded its retail footprint and social investment initiatives in 2025, opening 18 new service stations and dozens of maintenance workshops across the country to meet rising fuel demand in key growth areas. The marketer of Caltex fuels and lubricants placed new sites near urban hubs and major highways, including locations in Laoag City, Makati, Tagaytay and Bacolod. The expansion was complemented by the opening of 75

Caltex Havoline Autopro and Bikepro workshops, bringing the company’s total service network to more than 500 locations nationwide.

The year also saw a leadership transition as Chevron Philippines general manager and country chairman Pongtorn Tangmanuswong took the helm. Tangmanuswong, who previously served as the top executive for Chevron Cambodia, brings 17 years of leadership experience across Asia-Pacific markets to his new role in Manila.

“In 2025, I learned more about the Philippines’ dynamic fuel market and what we can do to unleash its untapped potential,” Tangmanuswong said.

AXA Life Centre switches to RE

THE Philippine AXA Life Centre has started its transition to renewable energy through a supply agreement with ACEN RES, the retail electricity supply unit of the Ayala group.

The landmark in the Makati Central Business District made the shift under the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), a government policy allowing electricity users with an average monthly peak demand of at least 100 kilowatts to choose renewable sources through licensed suppliers.

ACEN RES dominates the sector with a 57-percent market share among GEOP suppliers, according to the latest Competitive Retail Electricity Market report from the Energy Regulatory Commission.

ACEN RES presented the building with its “Powered by Renewable Energy” badge. The badge has been installed in nearly 100 facilities across the country since its launch in 2022 to highlight private sector efforts to mitigate climate change.

“While the Philippine AXA Life Centre has stood as a pillar of stability in Makati for decades, we believe that true resilience involves adapting to the needs of the future,” Philippine AXA Life Centre Condominium Corp. president Arturo Tanyag said.

development across all regions of the country, moving past a traditional focus on Metro Manila.

The proposed Metro Cebu Urban Mass Rapid Transit would span 67.5 kilometers from Danao City to Carcar City, including a 25-kilometer line connecting to Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

“Hopefully we can start the feasibility study by October 2026. Once we do the feasibility study, we will start coordinating with the local government.

This is not just a national government project, this is a project for the whole Philippines,” Lopez said.

The agency is also nearing the opening of Cebu Bus Rapid Transit Package 1. The initial phase features three stations at the Cebu South Bus Terminal, Cebu Normal University and Fuente.

“When Package 1 becomes operational, 34,000 passengers daily will benefit. So the benefits of BRT for Cebu will be huge,” Lopez said. Other ongoing initiatives in the re-

BIR

THE Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said Friday it protected an estimated P460.98 million in government revenue following a series of enforcement operations against illicit cigarette manufacturing in Pampanga province.

The raids, conducted on Feb. 11 and Feb. 16, 2026, are part of an intensified nationwide campaign to disrupt illegal tobacco supply chains and strengthen compliance with excise tax laws.

BIR Revenue Region No. 4 director Saripoden Bantog led the operations in coordination with the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.

During the first phase of the operation on Feb. 11, enforcement teams raided the Chamian Commercial Warehouse in San Fernando. Authorities seized manufacturing equipment and raw materials valued at about P147.6 million.

the Federal Reserve is expected to cut rates by another 50 basis points this year. This could widen the gap to 75 basis points by the end of 2026. Despite this, BMI expects the Philippine currency to remain under pressure. “That said, the deteriorating external position will keep the peso weak, and we forecast the peso to weaken gradually towards 59.50 against the US dollar by end-2026, even absent further easing,” BMI said.

Full-year economic growth is forecasted at 5.2 percent, with a recovery anticipated in the second half of 2026. This pickup is expected to be driven by a rebound in public capital expenditure and the delayed impact of 275 basis points in cumulative rate cuts since August 2025.

EMPOWERING STUDENTS.

Students are stepping confidently into a cash-lite future with the rollout of LandBank’s Cash-Lite Campus Program at the

Investigators also recovered 700,000 counterfeit excise tax stamps worth an estimated P48.62 million.

The BIR confirmed through its authentication system that the stamps were intended for illegal production to evade tax obligations.

The crackdown continued on Feb. 16 at the Golden Sun 999 Industrial Park in San Simon, where authorities seized 1,013 master cases of illicit cigarettes. The BIR estimated the total tax liability for the 506,500 packs at P412.36 million, a figure that includes excise tax, value-added tax, surcharges and penalties.

BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza said the sustained enforcement is critical to protecting lawful revenue collection and ensuring government resources for public services are secured.

gion include the construction of the New Cebu International Container Port and San Fernando Port, along with bike lane installations and the Love Bus Free Ride Program. Publicprivate partnerships are also continuing at the Mactan-Cebu and BoholPanglao international airports.

“The Department of Transportation is not just for Metro Manila—equally important is how to connect those in the provinces and regions. You can count on DOTr to do that,” Lopez said.

THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has launched a microloan program to provide government employees immediate financial assistance through its mobile application. The program, called Ginhawa Go, allows qualified members with at least one month of paid premium contributions to borrow between P1,000 and P50,000 via the GSIS Touch app. “Ginhawa Go is a loan that bridges the immediate financial needs of our members. It is designed to provide quick and convenient assistance in times of need, with reasonable and affordable installments so as not to burden the payer,” GSIS president and general-manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso said.

Under the program, members can access short-term loans of up to P4,000 with repayment periods of 30, 60 or 90 days. Larger amounts ranging from P5,000 to P50,000 can be repaid over three to 24 months. Interest rates are 6 percent per annum for regular members with at least three years of paid contributions and 7 percent per annum for special members.

Approved proceeds are credited electronically within 24 to 36 hours and include loan redemption insurance coverage. The initiative follows the state insurer’s strong financial performance in 2025.

GSIS reported a net income of P138 billion, with total assets nearing P2 trillion. Gross

LA LOLA CHURRERIA BRANCH. La Lola Churreria expands to Robinsons

Antipolo, offering its signature Spanish churros, diverse dips, and new Pistachio Series to Rizal residents. The new branch, situated on the lower ground level, aims to provide local customers with access to the brand’s popular churros without the need to travel into the metro. The expansion follows the brand’s initial success at its maiden branch at Evia Lifestyle Center.

Changing my sleepless nights with the soundcore Sleep A30

By Jessica Luna

I’VE always been a light sleeper. Living in a busy area, there’s always something — traffic in the distance, appliances humming, or random noises that seem louder once the lights go out. Some nights, even when everything is quiet, my mind refuses to cooperate. I’ve tried everything from white noise apps to meditation videos, but nothing consistently worked.

Thankfully, soundcore lent me their newest product, the soundcore Sleep A30, and after using it for several nights, I can honestly say it changed the way I sleep.

The first thing I noticed was how effective the noise cancellation was. The combination of Active Noise Cancellation and the snug in-ear fit immediately reduced the background sounds I usually struggle with. The low hum of the air conditioner faded into the background, and the distant traffic that normally keeps me half-awake was no longer distracting. It didn’t feel like artificial silence because it felt natural and comfortable.

One of the most impressive features for me was the soundscapes and brainwave audio available through the app. On nights when I felt mentally restless, I used the calming rain and ambient sound options. Instead of lying awake

overthinking, I found myself relaxing much faster.

It wasn’t dramatic or forced, but gradual, and before I realized it, I was already drifting off to sleep. It helped quiet not just the environment, but my thoughts as well. Beyond sleep, I also found myself using the Sleep A30 for listening to Spotify and other audio during the day. I tried it while listening to mellow playlists, podcasts, and even instrumental music while working or winding down.

The sound quality was clear and balanced, and the snug fit helped block out-

side noise without needing to raise the volume too much. There were moments when I used it just to relax on the couch or during quiet breaks, and the immersive audio made the experience more personal and distraction-free. It wasn’t just a sleep device as it became something I could use, too, to focus, unwind, and enjoy my favorite music in peace. Comfort was another major factor. I usually sleep on my side, and most earbuds I’ve tried end up hurting my ears after an hour or two. The Sleep A30 felt different. It was slim and soft enough that I barely noticed it, even when lying directly on my pil-

Powerhouse Tools opens Monumento branch, boosts support system for franchise owners

AS Powerhouse Tools opens its newest branch in Monumento, Caloocan City, on February 21, 2026, the milestone signals the brand’s approach to expansion in 2026: strengthening its support system for franchise owners through operational guidance and reliable infrastructure.

The company launched its franchise model in 2021.

As the franchise network matures, the brand has shifted its focus from expansion to deepening support for existing and new franchise partners—enabling them to build businesses grounded in proven processes.

Andrew Jason Go, a construction professional with no prior retail experience, represents the kind of entrepreneur the Powerhouse system was built to support.

Franchising appealed to the store owner because it provided structure, whereas independent entrepreneurship often requires costly trial and error. What set Powerhouse Tools apart from other franchise options was the depth of

PUREGOLD Price Club Inc. is syn-

ergizing retailtainment with social impact as it allocates earnings of its widely-viewed YouTube channel to support public schools in remote areas across the country.

Vincent Co, Puregold President, is funneling all streaming revenues of the Puregold Channel to Puregold’s Pusong Panalo Program, his personal initiative that provides much-needed aid to far-flung public schools.

The program funds classroom renovations, building repairs, and solar panel installation in rural schools. It also delivers livelihood packages for teachers, and groceries and school supplies for students. The Pusong Panalo Program aims to reach 30 schools across the country by 2028.

“By dedicating our streaming revenues to the Pusong Panalo Program, we are giving our digital audience a deeper purpose,” said Co.

“Every view, share, and engagement now contributes directly to building a brighter future for students in remote areas of the country.

This way, our channel becomes a platform that seeks not just clicks or

its operational framework, from product selection and supplier relationships to store layout and pricing strategy.

“Powerhouse Tools stood out because it wasn’t just selling products— it was selling a system,” Andrew Go explained. “Even without formal retail experience, I saw how structured the operations were. It was clearly

views, but also drives support for the development of the country’s human capital,” he said.

The Puregold Channel, established in 2013, serves as one of the retail chain’s online touchpoints, bringing the brand closer to customers through a variety of content.

Serving as its the brand’s central hub for product awareness and retailtainment projects, the channel features its free digital series across various genres, short films from its annual Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, and concerts and music videos featuring OPM stars, including SB19, BINI, and Flow G.

The channel currently has over 307,000 subscribers, with its content commanding views from the tens of thousands to millions. It has been recognized with a YouTube Silver Play Button for its strong following.

Puregold’s latest move that marries its retailtainment venture and social impact project is proof of how its innovative retail strategy translates to long-term commitment to providing tangible support for underprivileged communities.

built for Filipino entrepreneurs who want a real, sustainable business— not just a logo.”

The franchise system addresses barriers that often derail new businesses, including lack of supplier access, inconsistent processes, and operational discipline. By providing standardized systems and established

It helped me understand which nights were truly restful and which weren’t, even when I thought I slept well.

low. I didn’t wake up in the middle of the night needing to adjust them, which is something that used to happen often with regular earbuds. Battery life also proved reliable. I was able to use it through the entire night without worrying about it shutting off unexpectedly. Knowing it would last until morning gave me peace of mind, and I didn’t have to constantly think about charging it every day. What surprised me most was the sleep tracking feature. Seeing actual data about how long I slept and how often I moved during the night gave me a clearer picture of my sleep habits.

After using the soundcore Sleep A30, I woke up feeling more rested, with fewer interruptions during the night. It made me realize how much background noise and discomfort had been affecting my sleep without me fully realizing it.

For someone like me who struggles with nightly disruptions, the Sleep A30 added comfort and made sleep feel more consistent and reliable. Whether I’m using it to block out noise at night, listen to music during quiet moments, or simply create a peaceful environment, it has become an essential part of my daily and nightly routine.

(The soundcore Sleep A30 in Classic White and Mist Green at P10,995 in the Philippines through Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and select offline stores.)

supplier networks, Powerhouse Tools allows franchisees to focus on growing their businesses rather than navigating avoidable mistakes.

For the Monumento branch, with its high-traffic environment and strong concentration of contractors, builders, and homeowners, success will depend on efficiency, inventory management, and service quality. The franchisee aims to provide a well-organized hardware store that local tradespeople and residents could trust.

“I hope it becomes a go-to partner for builders and homeowners alike—a place where people feel confident buying what they need because they know it works,” the franchisee said. “Beyond sales, I want it to be a dependable part of the community that supports local livelihoods and small projects.”

As Powerhouse Tools enters 2026, it continues to refine its support infrastructure to ensure that franchise owners have the tools, training, and guidance necessary to operate in their markets.

THE world’s leading provider of science-based biometric identity verification solutions, iProov, today announced that its Dynamic Liveness technology is the first and only solution to successfully achieve an Ingenium Level 4 evaluation and the CEN/ TS 18099 High technical specification for Injection Attack Detection, following an independent evaluation by the ISO/IEC 17025-accredited, Ingenium Biometric Laboratories. Ingenium Level 4 builds on the requirements outlined in CEN/ TS 18099, providing an increased level of assurance with an extended period of active testing and inclusion of complex, highlyweighted attack types.

As AI-generated deepfakes and injection attacks rapidly evolve, CEN/ TS 18099 is helping organizations to move beyond vendor-led claims with accredited, standards-based benchmarks that provide real comparability and trust. While many biometric providers point to independent testing, too often these evaluations are conducted against proprietary frameworks that have not been developed by industry standards groups. As a result, the testing requirements are inconsistent and cannot be meaningfully compared across vendor solutions.

“In the age of deepfakes, biometric security must be proven, not promised,” said Andrew Bud, founder and CEO of iProov. “CEN/TS 18099 is the first true benchmark for injection attack detection, a requirement now included in NIST 800-63-4. Achieving Ingenium Level 4 through accredited testing sets iProov apart as the highest-assurance facial biometric provider independently validated today.” During 40 days of intensive evaluation by Ingenium, no successful Injection Attack Method could be established, and iProov successfully blocked all attempts. Critically, this highest tier of protection was achieved while maintaining a Bona Fide Presentation Classification Error Rate (BPCER)

soundcore SleepA30

soundcore SleepA30 Snug t

Vincent Co, Puregold President

Andrew Jason Go, Powerhouse Tools franchisee

NEW DELHI—The world urgently needs to regulate artificial intelligence, OpenAI head Sam Altman said Thursday at a summit in New Delhi to address the risks and opportunities posed by the fast-evolving technology.

Altman, CEO of the company behind ChatGPT, has called for global oversight in the past but last year warned that taking too tight an approach could hold the United States back in the AI race.

Frenzied demand for generative AI has turbocharged profits for companies while fuelling anxiety about the impact on society and the planet.

“Centralization of this technology in one company or country could lead to ruin,” Altman said on Thursday.

“This is not to suggest that we won’t need any regulation or safeguards. We obviously do, urgently, like we have for other powerful technologies.”

The AI Impact Summit is the fourth annual gathering to discuss how to handle advanced computing power.

It is the largest yet and the first in a developing country, with India taking the opportunity to push its ambitions to catch up with the United States and China.

“We must democratize AI. It must

OpenAI chief tells world leaders: Regulate AI now

become a medium for inclusion and empowerment,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the gathering.

“We are entering an era where humans and intelligence systems co-create, co-work and co-evolve,” he said.

“We must resolve that AI is used for the global common good.”

Gates cancels

Modi’s comments were echoed by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who said “AI must belong to everyone.”

He called on tech tycoons to support a $3 billion global fund to boost AI skills and makes computing power more affordable.

“The future of AI cannot be decided by a handful of countries -- or left to the whims of a few billionaires,” he said.

Researchers and campaigners say stronger action is needed to combat emerging issues, from job disruption to online abuse and the electricity demands of data centres.

But the broad focus of the New Delhi event, and vague promises made at previous summits, could make concrete commitments unlikely.

Google’s Sundar Pichai and Anthropic’s Dario Amodei also spoke Thursday.

A photo opportunity on stage featuring Modi and the group of tech bosses sparked ridicule online after Amodei and OpenAI’s Altman awkwardly refused to hold hands.

Microsoft founder Bill Gates, facing questions over his ties to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, cancelled just hours before his appearance.

The billionaire said this month he regrets “every minute” he spent with Epstein. The mention of someone’s name in the Epstein files does not in itself imply any wrongdoing by that person.

Big deals

Dozens of world leaders and ministers have joined tens of thousands of people from across the sector at the summit.

French President Emmanuel Macron, last year’s host, said he was determined to ensure safe oversight of AI.

“Europe is not blindly focused on regulation -- Europe is a space for innovation and investment, but it is

a safe space,” he said.

India expects more than $200 billion in investments over the next two years, and US tech titans have unveiled new deals and infrastructure projects this week.

OpenAI and Indian IT giant Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) announced they would build hyperscale AI data centre capacity in India.

Google said it planned to lay subsea cables from India as part of an existing $15 billion AI infrastructure investment.

Power-hungry AI data centres are under construction worldwide on a massive scale as companies race to develop super-intelligent systems.

Their heavy use of electricity, and water to cool hot servers, have sparked alarm at a time when nations have pledged to decarbonise grids to tackle climate change.

India leapt to third place last year in an annual global ranking of AI competitiveness calculated by Stanford researchers, although experts say it has a long way to go before it can rival the United States and China. AFP

Sales agents work hard, earn big in Naga with Surf2Sawa

DOOR-TO-DOOR sales is no walk in the park, but for Surf2Sawa agents

Robert Borces and Maribel Mancilla, the hard work is made a little easier by two things : a supportive retail partner and moreover, an excellent connectivity product loved by Filipinos, the Surf2Sawa prepaid fiber plan.

Neither Robert nor Maribel are new to sales; both were formerly salespeople of a competing telco.

“I was formerly with this telecommunications company, also as a team leader. They changed management and it wasn’t a good change for me so I tried Surf2Sawa with Tita Daisy, and I got the job,” noted Borces. Maribel echoed the same story, but she started as an agent with the former company; now with Surf2Sawa, she was elevated to a team leader handling a few sub-agents in Albay and Cam Sur.

Both Maribel and Robert are employed by a Surf2Sawa distributorship in Naga, called Tita Dais FiberX Enterprise Solutions. Tita Dais’ diligence and care in handling demand in her area - from installation to customer service - spurred the growth of her enterprise, and she is now considered a major retailer in her territory.

Converge, in offering the costcompetitive Surf2Sawa, is lowering the barriers for residents to themselves become micro-entrepreneurs. Many subscribers, said the agents, are not just students but work-fromhome employees, and some may even have their own online businesses via Instagram or Facebook.

Further, the competitive advantage of Surf2Sawa, offering unlimited fiber internet with no contract at just P 700 a month, also made it an ‘easy sell’ to Naga customers.

UN hopes AI tech can aid starving as fund collapses

NEW DELHI—As tech leaders hail dizzying change and billion-dollar deals at a global artificial intelligence summit in India, their promises collide with a stark reality -record hunger and shrinking donor support.

Top World Food Programme official Carl Skau, who is also at the summit, hopes that AI can help save cash to stop millions dying of hunger as funding for the world’s largest food aid agency collapses.

“We are struggling everywhere,” Skau, WFP’s deputy executive director, told AFP, describing a widening gap between record global food insecurity and a funding pipeline that has been slashed.

“Not enough attention really is given to the global food security crisis and to how those of us trying to address it are struggling at the moment.” Conflict and climate-fuelled disasters are accelerating crises, with 318 million people facing acute levels of hunger this year in 68 countries, roughly triple the levels seen just five years ago, according to the WFP.

The surge reflects overlapping shocks: wars disrupting supply chains, fertiliser and fuel costs rising, and harvests failing in climatevulnerable regions.

Far from the fast jets and banquet feasts at the summit, Skau said a WFP contractor had been killed in South Sudan on Tuesday, shot dead in a grinding conflict in the world’s youngest nation. Aid work is becoming “more and more dangerous” as conflicts intensify and access shrinks, he said.

‘People will be dying’ On top of that is a financial squeeze. WFP funding fell by about 40 percent in 2025, forcing what Skau calls “brutal prioritisation”.

In Afghanistan, its funding for food aid has been halved.

“We know that people will be dying through this winter,” he said. “We have had to cut off widowed mothers with many children.”

Similar ration cuts have been reported in Sudan, where a nearly three-year civil war has killed tens of thousands, displaced 11 million and triggered what the UN calls one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, including pockets of famine. AFP

“Maganda ang bentahan ng Surf2Sawa ngayon. Marami talaga ang nag-aavail kasi mura ito at non-contract ito. Kapag nabenta namin ito sa isang tao ngayon, bukas naman, yung kapitbahay niya,” said Maribel. For Robert and Maribel, every day is a ripe opportunity to sell the fiber prepaid product. Motivated to earn well and bring the low-cost connectivity to kababyans, Robert and Maribel end each day strategizing on where to sell the next day.

“Mag-uusap kami ni Sir Robert kung ano gagawin. May agents siya na hawak online and mga sub-agents ko, pag-uusapan namin, ‘ito ang gagawin natin bukas’. Sumasabay na din dito ang mga nakapila na pupuntahan na sasabihin ni Ma’am Daisy,” said Maribel. For the two team leads, there’s no ‘secret sauce’ to earning well. They earn on commission and on load top-ups so the key is really persistent effort in selling and answering customers’ load requirements.

INFINIX, an innovation-driven brand known for cutting-edge technology, bold design, and outstanding performance, is expanding its portfolio with the new Infinix NOTE Edge, branded as the King of Edge that represents the peak of performance and style for Gen Z. The device becomes the world’s first smartphone to adopt the new MediaTek Dimensity 7100, marking another milestone in Infinix’s partnership with MediaTek as the brand continues its mission to democratize technology. By delivering a brand-new systemon-a-chip platform alongside the debut of Infinix’s first in-house Android 16-based operating system, the Infinix NOTE Edge signals a major expansion of

with MediaTek, NOTE Edge delivers stable 5G with low power consumption for all-day efficiency

Despite steady global expansion, the 5G experience remains uneven across markets shaped by inconsistent performance, device accessibility, and spectrum availability challenges, especially outside the flagship tier. In response, as the world’s first smartphone with the MediaTek Dimensity 7100, Infinix NOTE Edge offers a true 5G experience engineered to remain accessible at 4G-level pricing, bringing next-generation connectivity into everyday use rather than limiting it to flagship devices.

MediaTek and Infinix have jointly introduced an exclusive optimization

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi (center) takes a group photo with AI company leaders at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. AFP

agents have reaped the rewards of their

Infinix NOTE Edge

SHOWBIZ

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

SEASONED director Jerry Lopez Sineneng doesn’t hand out compliments lightly, but when it comes to Carlo Aquino and Bela Padilla , he’s all praise.

At a recent press conference for his latest film, A Special Memory , Sineneng admitted half his job was already done thanks to the pair.

Speaking with Manila Standard Entertainment , he gushed over their undeniable chemistry.

“When it comes to chemistry, it’s really magic. You just see it, you feel it,” he said. “I love watching how they come together, how they react, and how they support one another.”

Sineneng stressed that their onscreen spark isn’t something you can manufacture.

REUNITED.

Sineneng hails Carlo Aquino-Bela Padilla

‘magic’ in new

romance drama

“It’s not like one plus one equals chemistry… it’s magic. It depends on the artists themselves, how they give, how they express themselves, and how they bring it out on screen. With Carlo and Bela in Meet Me in St. Gallen , it was beautiful. I’m very happy with how it turned out.” He also praised their professionalism and dedication, as well as their responsiveness to his direction throughout the entire filmmaking process.

“Any discussions we had were minimal because they already understood their characters so well. In fact, they suggested ideas to deepen their roles. I genuinely

felt they got their characters.”

Even for a veteran like Sineneng, working with experienced actors can be nerve-wracking. He admitted that he still gets intrigued and even nervous on the first day of directing seasoned actors.

“I still ask myself: Will they trust me? Will they resist? How will they respond to my direction?” he admitted. “But with Carlo and Bela, there was no hesitation.

“They gave me their trust immediately. We hardly had any arguments. I don’t think we ever really disagreed.”

Much of the ease on set came from the clear, compelling script by National Artist Ricky Lee

“The story flow was crystal clear. Small adjustments were easy, and if the actors proposed improvements, I accepted them too. It’s how we worked—with mutual respect, openness, and trust,” Sineneng said.

A Special Memory , a Philippine adaptation of the acclaimed Japanese series Pure Soul , brings Filipino audiences a poignant story of love, loss, and memories worth holding on to. Bela Padilla stars as Sandra, a fashion designer whose impulsive streak hides a heartbreak from her past, while Carlo Aquino plays Dindo, a devoted construction foreman in her family’s company.

Their love story faces a heartrending twist when Sandra is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Fearing she’ll become a burden, she leaves Dindo to protect him from the slow fade of her memory. Yet Dindo’s devotion never wavers, gently rebuilding their connection from afar.

“Bela shines in this role that stretches her emotional range, while Carlo brings his signature depth and sincerity,” the director pointed out.

Completing the cast are Lotlot de Leon, Joel Torre, Yayo Aguila, Jaime Fabregas, Phoebe Walker, and Paolo Gumabao

From Viva Films, A Special Memory opens in cinemas nationwide on March 11.

FEBRUARY 21, 2026 lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

BAFTAs bring London’s glitz to Philippine screens Feb. 23

FILIPINO film fans can watch the 2026 British Academy Film Awards live from Royal Festival Hall as the ceremony streams on Lionsgate Play. The awards night takes place on Feb. 22 at 7:00 p.m. GMT in London. Viewers in the Philippines can tune in to the real-time stream on Feb. 23 at 1:30 a.m., with the full program available on demand afterward.

Often regarded as Britain’s equivalent of the Academy Awards, the BAFTAs recognize excellence in British and international filmmaking. This year’s ceremony features a competitive slate of nominees led by Paul Thomas Anderson ’s One Battle After Another with 14 nominations. Ryan Coogler ’s supernatural thriller Sinners follows with 13 nods, while Chloé Zhao ’s historical drama Hamnet earned 11. Josh Safdie’s directorial debut, Marty Supreme , a sports comedy-drama starring Timothée Chalamet also secured 11 nominations, including best film and director. Gothic cinema is also prominent, with Guillermo del Toro ’s Frankenstein earning eight nominations. Jacob Elordi is nominated for best supporting actor, while cinematographer Dan Laustsen received a nod for best

Timothée Chalamet headlines ‘Marty Supreme’ as one of the major contenders in this year’s BAFTA lineup, which streams for Philippine audiences via Lionsgate Play

After hosting for two consecutive years, David Tennant steps down from the role. Alan Cumming will host the ceremony, and British singer-songwriter Jessie Ware is set to perform a tribute during the In Memoriam segment.

The ceremony will also feature a performance of the song “Golden” by the vocal performers behind HUNTR/X from K-pop Demon Hunters : Ejae , Audrey Nuna , and Rei Ami , marking the group’s first performance outside the United States.

The 2026 BAFTA Fellowship will be presented to Donna Langley, chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment, recognizing her role in backing major films over the past two decades, including Oppenheimer The Holdovers Jurassic World Bridesmaids, and the 2024 adaptation of Wicked In the Philippines, red carpet coverage begins at 1:45 a.m., followed by the main broadcast at 3:00 a.m. In addition to the live awards show, Lionsgate Play hosts a library of award-winning titles and series available year-round, including Past Lives , Sherlock , Normal People, and Gangs of London . Subscribers can access the service through PLDT Home, Smart, and Cignal.

By Nickie Wang

Kings deliver a more assertive artistic direction while tackling social issues affecting Filipinos working and performing abroad. The track confronts the realities faced by overseas

workers, athletes, creatives, and professionals striving

for

build

Its lyrics address systemic

that limit opportunities and recognition, underscoring the irony of a people celebrated for resilience yet constrained by bureaucratic inequities.

‘VISA’ sees SB19 confront red tape with bold sound

The ceremony will also be available for replay, allowing viewers to revisit highlights from one of film’s biggest nights.

just an attempt to produce music but to push Filipino culture forward.” Josh drew parallels with athletes who compete abroad.

“They give so much for the Philippines, but it often feels like the country does not give back. There needs to be a change,” he added. Justin emphasized that Filipinos working overseas contribute to morale and the economy, yet often face limited mobility. “But somehow, it often feels like we are at the end of the line,” he added.

Musically, “VISA” mirrors its themes through bold production and prominent brass elements. Pablo created the melody during a brand campaign shoot, blending satire, personal experience, and commentary with experimental sound design.

Ken described the track as unconventional. “The melody is impactful, and the instruments we used in the track are well chosen. The percussions, ad-libs, and other elements are perfectly placed,” he added. “VISA” is now available on major streaming platforms.

From left: Carlo Aquino, Bela Padilla, Jerry Lopez Sineneng, and Ricky Lee pose together at the media conference for the upcoming film

Carlo Aquino (left) and Bela Padilla bring Dindo and Sandra’s story to life in ‘A Special Memory’

SB19 releases ‘VISA,’ speaking on the challenges Filipinos face when pursuing opportunities overseas

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Connectivity beyond speed

Telco focuses on building reliable and accessible internet nationwide

GLOBE Telecom opened 2026 by emphasizing that connectivity is about more than speed, highlighting consistent service, affordability, and accessibility at its quarterly media event, The Blueprint.

Held at The Globe Tower, the event showcased innovations aimed at improving how Filipinos live, work, and connect, under the theme “Every Filipino Connected.” Globe highlighted milestones across its mobile, broadband, and enterprise services, emphasizing its goal of making internet access a core part of everyday life.

A major announcement was Globe’s partnership with Starlink to test Direct-to-Cell satellite technology. Following a live pilot trial, the companies plan to expand testing to more locations.

Globe also celebrated recognition from Ookla as the Philippines’ most reliable mobile and broadband network.

The company cited this as evidence that its investments are delivering dependable service for work, learning, and commerce. Roche Vandenberghe, Globe chief marketing officer, said consistent connectivity is essential for small businesses, families, and communities.

Globe Business introduced new AI and cloud solutions, including a fully managed data streaming platform with Confluent and the Globe Omnichannel Cloud Contact Center (GOCCC) with Call Center Studio. The tools aim to provide enterprises with real-time intelligence and AI-powered customer engagement without heavy capital investment.

For households, Globe At Home is integrating fiber connectivity into new property developments and offering AI-driven services with a 24-hour care team to ensure reliable service. Globe Mobile and Globe At Home Advantage plans allow customers to combine mobile and home services for savings of up to P500 per month. Prepaid and TM subscribers receive exclusive promos and free data.

TM, Globe’s prepaid brand, marked its 25th anniversary with community events, rewards, and discounted plans. Globe also expanded its premium Platinum GPlan, which now includes PAL Mabuhay Miles for subscribers.

Through its GoGIVE program, Globe Prepaid users generated more than 4 billion “hearts,” converted into over 840 million in donations to charities including Ayala Foundation, Rise Against Hunger Philippines, Pawssion Project, and the Philippine Eagle Foundation.

“Connectivity today is a lifeline,” said Daruis Delgado, Globe chief commercial officer. “We want to ensure every Filipino, whether in bustling cities or remote barangays, has access to reliable digital services. More than speed, we are building trust, inclusivity, and resilience into our network.”

C4 LIFE

Five ways to create an intentional home according to top Filipino designers

By Nickie Wang

AHOME is always evolving, shaped by the moods, needs, and tastes of those who live in it. One season it may embrace eclectic chic, the next modern minimalism. Colors fade, trends shift, and over time, many homeowners gravitate toward a simpler, more purposeful approach: less is more.

Award-winning architect Jason Buensalido and interior designer Ivy Almario emphasize that creating a meaningful home goes beyond aesthetics. It involves thoughtful layouts, functional furniture, and a focus on comfort and longevity.

“When you talk about contemporary Filipino architecture, it’s not just in the look,” explained Buensalido, principal of Barchan + Architecture. “The finishes, the textures, the visual and even olfactory experiences all result from spatial quality.”

Almario, founder of Atelier Almario, notes that homeowners today want “more intentional lives,” making adaptable spaces a priority. “The challenge is how to give them spaces that can transform, since change is one of life’s constants,” she adds.

Here are five key elements Buensalido and Almario identify for an intentional home:

1. Bring the outdoors in Exposure to natural light, fresh air, and greenery has measurable benefits for wellness. “Abundant natural light and crossventilation contribute to this feeling of maaliwalas—a bright, spacious, and airy environment,” Buensalido points out.

Warm materials like wood and tactile finishes on stone further enhance comfort, Almario adds.

2. Prioritize storage Filipino homeowners often need generous storage. Almario recommends carving out hidden compartments and planning organization carefully to avoid

Dining, markets, and green spaces

in Taguig’s latest lifestyle hub

LOCATED in Taguig, the mall features open-air walkways, green spaces, and sunlit interiors designed for casual meetups, afterwork downtime, and family outings. It is designed to integrate naturally into daily life, with integrated basement parking and links to major transport hubs for easier access. Fresh Grounds, Ayala Malls’ first roastery zone, brings together artisanal cafés including the Philippines’ Ahon Coffee, Malaysia’s JB Kopitiam, and the Vietnamese-inspired Saigon Coffee. Nearby, The Crates provides a marketstyle setup with regional delicacies, fresh produce, and flower stalls. Outdoor food trucks serve crowd favorites such as Cibo, Yushoken, Goof! Doughnuts, Mos Burger, and German Doner Kebab, making each visit a chance to try something new.

This month, the mall hosts community events and seasonal activities. Valentine’s weekend featured retro 1990s-themed installations, vintage photo booths, and a live performance by Amiel Sol, capped by an outdoor screening of romantic comedies. Lunar New Year celebrations followed with zodiac displays, dragon and lion dances, and festive décor.

Mall operators said a growing selection of stores and experiences will continue to open to give visitors new things to discover with every return.

Ayala Malls Arca South can be reached via the Arca South estate entrance on the Metro Manila Skyway East Service Road. Visitors from Taguig, Makati, and Ortigas can access it via EDSA and C-5, while those coming from Ninoy Aquino International Airport or Alabang can take Sales Road to the Skyway East Service Road.

clutter. Multifunctional furniture maximizes utility without compromising design.

“Multifunctionality is very Filipino,” Buensalido notes. “Resourcefulness and limited space inspire creative solutions.”

3. Integrate technology thoughtfully Smart devices can improve daily life without overshadowing family time or personal rituals.

“Incorporating technology depends on the client. It should contribute to health and convenience,” Buensalido explains.

Almario highlights that modern products, from slim TVs to massage chairs, complement interiors rather than dominate them.

4. Make bathrooms a sanctuary Bathrooms should offer privacy, comfort, and practicality. Neutral colors and easy-to-clean surfaces are common choices. “Bathrooms should be tailored to your lifestyle,” Buensalido observes. “They can also provide quiet time for parents or serve as functional personal spaces without being opulent.”

5. Focus on timelessness

An intentional home prioritizes family, health, comfort, and human connection over fleeting trends. Durable brands like Kohler provide fixtures that combine function and design.

“The range of Kohler products allows us to meet clients’ needs across price points and styles,” Almario points out.

Buensalido highlights smart toilets and versatile panels as practical solutions for hygiene and convenience.

For homeowners seeking a home that balances style, purpose, and comfort, Buensalido and Almario stress the importance of prioritizing what truly matters while designing spaces that can adapt as life changes.

IN a move that pairs practicality with a distinctly Filipino sense of care, Golden Haven Memorial Park Koronadal is offering a “libreng burol” benefit with every memorial lot purchase, easing both the emotional and financial strain families often face during times of loss.

Located in Purok Kalinisan, Barangay Paraiso in Koronadal, the memorial park provides a serene and well-kept resting place designed to honor life with dignity. The new benefit ensures families receive not only a memorial lot investment but also essential wake services when they are needed most.

Wake services will be handled by the park’s trusted local mortuary partner, ensuring timely and respectful arrangements grounded in community familiarity and cultural sensitivity. By working with a local provider, Golden Haven aims to deliver accessible support that reflects local customs and traditions.

“This benefit is part of our continuing effort to make memorialization planning more comprehensive and supportive,” said Emelia Lustado , VisMin operations head. “By planning ahead, families are able to protect their loved ones from rushed decisions, unexpected expenses, and

Peace of plot

Thoughtful perk at Koronadal memorial park softens life’s hardest moments

unnecessary stress.” Golden Haven Koronadal continues to promote proactive memorial planning as an act of love and responsibility, offering peace of mind today and care when it matters most. For inquiries, contact Golden Haven Koronadal at 0919-096-8718 or visit goldenhaven.com.ph/ memorial-park/koronadal.

A gentle reminder wrapped in practicality: planning ahead may feel heavy, but it can lift a family’s burden when the time comes.

light and warm materials define an intentional home designed for comfort and everyday functionality

Award-winning architect Jason Buensalido describes contemporary Filipino architecture as defined by spatial quality, not just appearance

Atelier Almario founder and interior designer Ivy Almario points out homeowners now prioritize adaptable spaces for intentional living