Manila Standard - 2026 April 11 - Saturday

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PAKISTAN HOSTS TRUCE TALKS; TOLL ON HORMUZ PASSAGE KEY POINT

PAKISTAN was poised on Friday to host Iranian and US delegations for negotiations in its capital, although Tehran's participation remained uncertain after deadly Israeli strikes on Lebanon threatened this week's temporary truce. Meanwhile, Iran's imposition of a toll for ships to pass through Hor-

Oil price rollback likely—Garin

DOE, House seek inquiry into cartel-like

By Alena Mae Flores, Charles Dantes and Maricel Cruz

CONSUMERS may see some form of relief with a possible rollback of oil prices next week, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said.

She said oil prices have softened following the announcement of a ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

“If the current trend continues, there could be a rollback,” Garin said during a Palace briefing Friday.

“We’re hoping and praying for a rollback. And with the rollback, plus the additional subsidy that will be

By Charles Dantes, Maricel V. Cruz, and Rolando Dy

going coordination among key economic agencies.

The government, through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), is also boosting assistance for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers affected by rising fuel costs owing to the Middle East crisis, opening its food kitchen and readying cash as -

sistance to provincial beneficiaries. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the recommendation on rice prices emerged from discussions during a meeting of the government’s UPLIFT committee, attended by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has named trade and investment veteran Dita AngaraMathay as secretary of the Department of Tourism, Malacañang confirmed Friday. Angara-Mathay, cousin of DepEd

Secretary Sonny Angara, brings decades of experience in international economic engagement, with a background spanning trade promotion, investment facilitation, and industry development, the Palace said. She succeeds former tourism chief Christina Frasco, who served from June 2022 until March 2026 Missed your

By Maricel V. Cruz

FISHING HOLIDAY. Fishermen of Barangay Wawa in Limay, Bataan did not

Revoli Cortez

MAKE OR BREAK IN ISLAMABAD.Pakistan's Prime Minister

Shehbaz Sharif (at right in left photo) speaks with Army Chief and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir during a meeting on April 9 at the Prime Minister House in Islamabad. Right photos shows Pakistani soldiers and police officers stand guard near the

Oil...

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provided by the LTFRB, it will be a big help, especially for public transportation,” she added.

An industry source said that based on the movement of the Mean of Platts Singapore — the benchmark used by oil importers — and the foreign exchange average from April 6 to 9, the price of diesel is expected to decrease by P5 to P6.50 per liter while gasoline prices may drop by up to P1 per liter.

“MOPS average for diesel is still lower than the April 6 to 8 average despite the closing of more than 6 percent yesterday versus April 8,” the

Palace...

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“Yes, as of now, this recommendation has already been approved, and the President and the administration are coordinating with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to ensure that the proposed price cap on the rice mentioned can be implemented properly,” Castro said in Filipino in a press briefing. She clarified that discussions on extending subsidies or discounts to other rice varieties, particularly locally produced rice, have not yet taken place.

“Sa ngayon wala pa pong napaguusapan doon (As of now, nothing has been discussed yet there),” she said.

She also outlined the division of oversight between agencies in monitoring prices, noting that the DTI supervises grocery items while the Agriculture department has jurisdiction over public markets.

Castro cited Laurel as explaining that price movements vary between groceries and wet markets due to differences in inventory practices.

Grocery stores typically maintain up to 60 days of inventory, which can delay price increases, while vendors in public markets procure supplies

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In a subpoena ad testificandum et duces tecum, the panel directed Marivic Pareja, director of the House of Representatives Legislative Archives and Museum Management Service, to appear at the April 14, 2026 hearing and submit records linked to Mercado.

The subpoena specifically called for the turnover of the “Affidavit of Undersecretary Gloria Jumamil Mercado, along with envelopes labeled “HOPE” also submitted by Mercado. During a September 2024 hearing of the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, Mercado, then head of the procuring entity (HOPE) at the Department of Education (DepEd), said in an affidavit that she received envelopes purportedly from Duterte.

“Between February of 2023 to September 2023, I received a total of nine envelopes labeled HOPE… These envelopes were handed to me mostly by Assistant Secretary Sunshine M. Fajarda, which she says came directly from Vice President Duterte,” Mercado recalled.

Mercado also claimed that Undersecretary Zuleika Lopez, chief of staff at the Office of the Vice President, asked for her resignation after she raised concerns over procurement issues in the department’s computerization program.

She said the request came after she objected to proposals by former assistant secretary Reynold Munsayac that bidders allegedly “discuss among themselves” the disposition of bidding.

The subpoena also covers transcripts and video recordings of multiple hearings of the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, as well as documents related to the use of confidential funds by the Office of the Vice President and the DepEd in 2022 and 2023.

“The custodian keeps and maintains transcripts… on the OVP’s and DepEd’s disposition of their confidential funds… and other pertinent documents,” the subpoena stated.

The panel cited testimonies from key resource persons, including Mercado and former DepEd Bids and Awards Committee chairperson Resty Osias, who both submitted envelopes containing money to the records custodian.

At an October 2024 hearing, Osias disclosed that he received envelopes containing P12,000 to P15,000 each during Duterte’s tenure as education secretary in 2023.

He said he received four envelopes between April and September 2023 after being called to the office of Sunshine Fajarda, whom he identified as Duterte’s head executive assistant,

source said.

As this developed, the DOE requested a review by the Philippine Competition Commission amid allegations that synchronized weekly fuel price adjustments may point to "cartel-like" behavior among oil companies.

Garin said the agency has formally communicated with the PCC to examine whether oil firms are coordinating price hikes, following concerns raised in Congress that the current system could enable cartel-like practices.

"I think the issue is whether they’re talking among themselves about what caused the oil price hike," she said.

"It seems they all coordinate not only when they increase, but also by how much their increase is," the DOE

daily, making them more sensitive to fluctuations driven by logistics costs.

She urged the public to report cases of excessive pricing in markets to the Department of Agriculture.

The Palace said it would release the Department of Agriculture’s latest daily price report, dated April 9, to provide updated data on prevailing market prices.

Amid surging fuel prices driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, the DSWD has begun extending support to PUV drivers through its Walang Gutom Kitchen (WGK) program.

DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the initiative provides free meals to help drivers cope with the impact of rising oil prices.

“We know the impact of the continued increase in oil prices on our PUV drivers. Through Walang Gutom Kitchen, we want to ensure that they have enough and nutritious food to eat every day,” Dumlao said in Filipino.

She emphasized that the WGK remains open to anyone in need of immediate food support, not only drivers but anyone who needs immediate food assistance or who are experiencing hunger.

PUV drivers may avail themselves of free breakfast at 6 a.m. and lunch at 11 a.m., Monday through Sunday. Located at the Nasdake Building in

adding that he believed it was a “practice of the department.”

The subpoena, dated March 31, 2026, was issued by authority of Committee on Justice chairperson Rep. Gerville Luistro of Batangas and signed by Speaker Faustino Dy III, with House Secretary General Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil attesting.

The House panel is continuing its hearings to determine probable cause in the impeachment complaints, a key step before any possible transmittal of the case to the Senate for trial.

Ortega, endorser of the fourth impeachment complaint, issued the statement after the release of the latest WR Numero Philippine Public Opinion Monitor survey which showed 42 percent of the people want the lawmakers to consider mass opinion when voting on the impeachment process. On the other hand, 29 percent said the vote should be based on the strength or weakness of the evidence.

“This destroys the false narrative that the public wants Congress to shut its eyes and walk away,” Ortega said. “The people want this process taken seriously. They want the facts examined. They want the evidence weighed. Above all, they want accountability to prevail.”

Ortega said the survey contains an even more damaging finding for the Vice President’s defenders: 22 percent of Filipinos already believe the evidence against Duterte is strong and has basis, while only 25 percent say it is weak and baseless.

“That means nearly one in four Filipinos already believe there is real basis to hold Vice President Duterte to account,” Ortega said. “This is not a joke. This is not a small number. And it is certainly not proof that the public is convinced that he is innocent.”

He said the often-cited figure that 53 percent are against impeachment should not be misconstrued as a public clearing of Duterte’s name.

“Let us be very clear: being against impeachment is not the same as believing she is innocent,” Ortega said.

“In fact, the same survey shows that 46 percent say they still do not have enough information about the evidence and grounds behind the complaint. That means the public’s minds are not closed yet. They are still waiting for the whole truth,” he added.

According to Ortega, that is precisely why the impeachment proceedings should continue in a serious, orderly, and evidence-driven manner.

“If the Vice President truly believes the allegations against her will collapse, then she should welcome the process instead of hiding behind technicalities, diversion, and propaganda,” he said. “The answer to impeachment charges is evidence. The answer is not self-pity. The answer is not political victimhood.”

chief said.

At the House, its multi-committee energy crisis response body will summon oil industry players to address concerns over “cartel-like” behavior in fuel pricing.

Marikina City Rep. Miro Quimbo, chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means and presiding officer of the House’s Legislative Energy Action Development (LEAD) Council, said oil companies will be asked to explain why their prices move almost exactly the same, even in a deregulated market.

Under the current system, oil firms adjust prices every Tuesday based on global trends from the previous week. Companies often announce the same

Pasay City, the WGK continues to operate through donations from both public and private sector partners, as well as the support of volunteers who render services at the kitchen.

Meals served include fried rice, fried dilis, and scrambled eggs with potatoes for breakfast, and rice, fried chicken, and sautéed squash with string beans for lunch.

The WGK, an initiative of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, also seeks to reduce food waste by converting surplus food donations from hotels, restaurants, and organizations into hot meals.

Meanwhile, Gatchalian said the DSWD is on track to complete the first round of cash relief assistance (CRA) payouts for transport workers outside Metro Manila by the end of April.

During visits to payout sites in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, and Angeles City, Pampanga on April 8, Gatchalian said the department aims to complete regional disbursements on or before April 30.

The goal, he said, is that on or before April 30, all transport sectors outside Metro Manila will have received financial assistance, as he expressed gratitude to PUV drivers for continuing to provide service despite economic challenges.

Separately, the Department of

Herbosa..

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sure that no one takes advantage of the situation.

Herbosa said the increased investments in healthcare could create a market for domestic manufacturing of medicines here.

“I am also trying to encourage other manufacturers, even foreign ones, to manufacture here because we are reputedly developing into a middle income country. So the cost of drug production is going up,” Herbosa told reporters.

Increased local production is one of the ways in managing the supply of medicines, with the current stock remaining available until June, he added.

According to a study by Statista, the Philippines heavily depends on imported drugs and active ingredients, imported primarily from the United States, India, and Germany.

Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) needed for domestic drug production are mostly sourced from India, while local pharma production relies more on basic materials like sugar. The government also imports generic medicines to support Universal Health Care programs.

However, the Philippines’ pharmaceutical exports were small compared to imports, resulting in a trade imbalance.

Herbosa admitted however, that companies are authorized to disclose

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before being reassigned as presidential adviser for sustainable and resilient communities.

Before her appointment, Angara-Mathay served as commercial counselor and Special Trade Representative (STR) of the Philippines in Tokyo, where she worked closely with Japanese firms to strengthen partnerships in sectors ranging from manufacturing to services.

Japan remains one of the Philippines’ major sources of investment, technology and tourist arrivals.

The DTI reported in September 2025 that they were able to secure a total of P51 billion in investment pledges from Japanese companies, following a discussion led by DTI’s Japan unit under Angara-Mathay. According to Malacañang, her selection underscores the administra-

price changes ahead of time, allowing others to match them.

During the LEAD Council hearing on Wednesday, Quimbo raised the issue with Department of Economy, Planning and Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, who said markets with only a few dominant players are more likely to move together.

“In Economics 101, Mr. Chair, when there are very few players in the markets, and you ask these players, government may be asking them to cooperate, to coordinate, they are actually asking a cartel,” Balisacan said.

Balisacan said he was not concluding that a cartel exists, but urged regulators to take a closer look.

Health (DOH) announced plans to hold a health services fair on April 16 to assist PUV drivers affected by rising fuel costs.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said the event will initially target drivers in Manila, including jeepney, tricycle, and transport network vehicle service operators.

The general concept, Herbosa said, is to hold it at the DOH gym. It will cater to Manila-based jeepney, tricycle, and TNVS drivers. It will be like a fair, where they can access medical check-ups, Kadiwa goods, and free food from partner organizations, he added.

“We are doing this to ease the stress of jeepney drivers while providing health services as part of efforts to help the most vulnerable,” he said in Filipino at the Kapihan sa Manila forum.

Herbosa said he is considering directing DOH regional offices to replicate the initiative in other areas after the Manila rollout.

“We’re all hit. I know we’re all hit. But the idea is if we can help the most vulnerable, we (the public) won’t suffer much because the drivers will continue to ply their routes. At least we can convert government support to them in some other way— better health services, free medicines, and free tests,” he said.

their current inventory as the current stocks differ among their respective roster.

As with the previously released assurances, Herbosa gave assurance that the ongoing stocks should not cause concerns for consumers despite possible rise in shipping costs.

“There is no problem with supply of medicine, with price. We have good inventory. Our problem is what happens to the price if the companies abroad start charging for the transport,” he explained.

“Whether pharma wants to pass it on or not, yun yung discussion namin with PHAP (Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines). Sabi namin, wag nyong ipasa agad. Absorb some of it,” the DOH chief said from his conversation with the pharmaceutical industry.

Herbosa will continue to monitor the inventory of medicines once the current stock depletes by June, the projected month given by the pharmaceutical industry.

According to Herbosa, there is a drug price monitoring index, which he discussed with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during the last meeting of the UPLIFT committee. The said committee was created by Malacañang to safeguard national interest and ensure stability of domestic energy and food supply.

The DOH, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and local government units monitor the prices of common medicines.

tion’s broader strategy to integrate tourism more deeply into the country’s economic agenda, expanding its role beyond cultural promotion to include job creation, enterprise growth and regional development.

Angara-Mathay previously led initiatives linking global partnerships to domestic outcomes, including programs supporting micro, small and medium enterprises, strengthening local industries and expanding market access for Filipino businesses.

The Palace said her appointment is expected to further align tourism policy with investment priorities, focusing on attracting more foreign capital, boosting local industries and ensuring tourism-driven growth reaches communities across the country.

The new DOT chief is the wife of Robbie Mathay, a former president of the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) which is located in the known Angara bailiwick of Quezon province. Rolando Ng II

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Islamabad was pressing ahead with its preparations for the highstakes negotiations, which official sources say will canvass several sensitive points, including Iran's nuclear enrichment and the free flow of trade through the strategic Strait of Hormuz maritime chokepoint.

When the United States and Israel launched their attack on Iran on February 28, Iran responded by blocking passage through the key Strait to all but a handful of vessels.

While Iran agreed to reopen the thoroughfare during the two-week truce with the US, it has also spoken of a toll system to fund reconstruction following punishing US-Israeli attacks.

The European Union was quick to denounce the idea Thursday. US President Donald Trump's position however appears more ambivalent.

The stakes are high, given that a fifth of the world's oil as well as vast quantities of natural gas and fertilizer pass in peacetime.

Bloomberg News has reported that shipping companies would be expected to pay up to $2 million per vessel.

The Financial Times said the price to pay would be a dollar a barrel of oil, paid in cryptocurrency or yuan, China's currency.

But, even as security was ramped up in Islamabad and the main luxury hotel hosting delegates was cleared of its normal well-heeled guests, Iran signaled that its participation could hinge on a halt in Israeli attacks on Lebanon.

"The holding of talks to end the war is dependent on the US adhering to its ceasefire commitments on all fronts, especially in Lebanon," Esmaeil Baqaei, Iran's foreign ministry spokesman, said.

"If the travel plan is finalized, the composition of the delegation will also be announced," he added.

Nevertheless, Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guards signaled they were committing to the ceasefire, according to the state broadcaster.

"We would like to inform you that the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran have not launched anything at any country during the ceasefire hours until now," the Guards said. On Wednesday, Israel's heaviest strikes on Lebanon since Hezbollah entered the Middle East war in early March killed hundreds, rattling the uneasy ceasefire between Washington and Tehran less than 48 hours after it came into force.

Pakistan has insisted that Lebanon is included in the ceasefire, and Washington made a push to include Beirut in parallel talks.

"We can confirm that the Department will host a meeting next week to discuss ongoing ceasefire negotiations with Israel and Lebanon," a US State Department official said. Neither Israel nor the Lebanese government have publicly confirmed these talks, although the announcement came shortly after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered his ministers to seek direct dialogue with Lebanon focused on disarming Iran-backed Hezbollah.

A Lebanese government official told AFP that Beirut would require a truce before entering any negotiations with Israel.

Iranian officials said Israel's strikes had rendered the Pakistan talks "meaningless" and that Lebanon was an "inseparable part of the ceasefire." Tehran's ambassador to Pakistan on Thursday deleted a social media post saying an Iranian delegation would arrive in the country later that day.

Still, Vice President JD Vance is due to lead the US delegation on Saturday, joined by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner.

Fresh fractures in the mediation process emerged when Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif wrote a sharp criticism of Israel's strikes on Lebanon Thursday evening, in a post taken down hours later on Friday.

"Israel is evil and a curse for humanity -- while peace talks are underway in Islamabad, genocide is being committed in Lebanon," he wrote on X, adding that he hoped "people who created this cancerous state on Palestinian land" would "burn in hell."

The Israeli Prime Minister's office called the remarks outrageous, saying: "This is not a statement that can be tolerated from any government, especially not from one that claims to be a neutral arbiter for peace."

Pakistan does not formally recognize Israel -- a fact that could complicate its role as mediator -- and has insisted the ceasefire includes Lebanon, which Israel disputes.

Fearing the truce may be in jeopardy, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz -- echoing worries in other capitals -- warned that the destruction in Lebanon could cause "the peace process as a whole to fail." AFP

IN BRIEF

Dizon aims to complete Laguna state hospitals

PUBLIC Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon on Friday committed funding to complete long-delayed hospital projects to fill the gap in healthcare service in Laguna.

Dizon made the pledge following inspection of unfinished governmentrun hospitals in the province, accompanied by Laguna Gov. Sol Aragones.

The inspection covered the Laguna Medical Center and Luisiana District Hospital, where some structures have remained white elephants over the past six years.

“When I learned that patients here were packed like sardines and that our fellow Filipinos were suffering, I knew we had to act. Our commitment is to finish this, and we will fund it,” Dizon told the governor.

“The President told me to go to you (Aragones) right away. So let’s start this within the year,” he added. Roy Tomandao

SC affirms Comelec DQ ruling on SK poll bet

THE Supreme Court (SC) has junked a petition challenging the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) resolution that invalidated the certificate of candidacy (COC) of a Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) candidate for breach of the anti-dynasty prohibition.

In upholding the Comelec ruling, the SC cited Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Act of 2015 which provides for an anti-dynasty prohibition.

The proviso stipulates that an SK candidate must not be related within the second civil degree of consanguinity or affinity to any incumbent elected national office, or to any incumbent elected regional, provincial, city, municipal, or barangay official, in the locality where they seek to be elected.

The poll body annulled the COC of Merson Calubag during the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) for material misrepresentation. Pot Chavez

Significant decrease in child labor bared

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has reported a significant decline in the number of child laborers in the country, dropping to 509,000 in 2024 from 828,000 in 2022 as a result of government drive to eradicate child labor by 2028.

DOLE said the government has intensified its nationwide campaign against child labor, recognizing it as a serious violation of children’s rights and part of global efforts to ensure that no child is forced to sacrifice their future just to survive.

“Poverty continues to drive many Filipino families into making difficult decisions, often at the expense of a child’s right to play, learn, grow, and dream,” the agency said in a statement, noting, however, that a “quiet transformation” is taking place across communities.” Vito Barcelo

GO FLY A KITE. This colloquial expression which connotes irritation over some pesky individuals takes a formal tone in Imus City’s cultural celebration dubbed ‘Pupugayo Festival’ involving the flying of multicolored oversize kites, the opening of which is led by Mayor Alex Advincula and local tourism head Dr. Emmanuel Paredes. Dennis Abrina

Meralco hikes rates by P0.53/kWh

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MANILA Electric Co. (Meralco) announced on Friday an increase of P0.5335 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in electricity rates for April, bringing the overall rate for a typical household to P14.3496 per kWh from P13.8161 in March.

For residential customers consuming a monthly average of 200 kWh, the adjustment translates to an increase of around P107 in their total bill.

Meralco vice president Lawrence Fernandez said the increase does not yet reflect the impact of the Middle East crisis.

Fernandez noted that while prices for diesel and gasoline increased by more

CEREAL QUEUE. Consumers form a kilometer-long line to buy rice at dramatically reduced of P20 a kilo at a Kadiwa ng Pangulo makeshift market set up at the Bureau of Plant Industry compound in San Andres, Malate, Manila. Norman Cruz

than 100 percent since the conflict began, the impact on fuel costs is expected to appear in the May generation charge.

He added that the current P0.53-increase represents a four percent rise in the overall rate for a 200-kWh household.

While Fernandez said it is too early to determine if rates will rise again in May, he noted that the imposition of administered

pricing at the spot market is intended to mitigate sharp increases in generation costs.

He said the company anticipates that this methodology will reduce any expected spikes in the coming weeks.

Meralco spokesman Joe Zaldarriaga attributed the April hike to a higher generation charge resulting from peso depreciation.

The generation charge rose by P0.5257 per kWh to P8.3864, largely because the Philippine peso weakened against the U.S. dollar.

For the March supply, the exchange rate increased by more than P3 to P60.748, the sharpest monthly depreciation since June 2022.

The weaker currency affected 99 percent of costs for the First Gas Sta. Rita and San Lorenzo plants and 44 percent

CBCP enjoins dioceses across PH to hold prayer vigils for peace

By Rolando Ng III

DIOCESES across the country are set to hold prayer vigils for peace, according to the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP). In its recent circular letter, the CBCP echoed the Vatican’s call for sobriety in response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

“The Holy Father has invited the entire Church to unite in prayer, urging all to implore the gift of peace and renew our commitment to dialogue, reconciliation, and nonviolence,” the CBCP letter stated.

The CBCP encouraged all churches and dioceses to conduct their respective vigil at any time of the day, regardless of form, length, or style.

“This may take the form of Eucharistic adoration, the Holy Rosary, the celebration of the Holy Rosary, the celebration of the Holy Mass for peace, or other appropriate liturgical or devotional gatherings,” the CBCP said.

“Such a collective act of prayer will not only express our solidarity with the Holy Father but will also witness to our shared hope that true peace, which be-

gins in Christ, may prevail in our hearts and in the world,” it added.

Parishes are set to hold their prayer for peace, including the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians Parish in Parañaque City.

This will take place after a 6:30 p.m. Holy Mass which will include the recitation of the Holy Hour and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.

of Meralco’s other dollar-denominated power supply agreements.

Consequently, charges from First Gas and these agreements rose by P1.2342 and P0.1989 per kWh, respectively.

Meralco said its initiative to require peso-denominated capital recovery fees for certain suppliers helped mitigate the impact on customers. Charges from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market also increased by P2.3955 per kWh due to tight supply conditions in the Luzon grid, driven by a seasonal demand increase of about 579 megawatts. First Gas, supply agreements, and the spot market accounted for 20 percent, 74 percent, and six percent, respectively, of Meralco’s total energy requirement.

Think tank says 4-day workweek will drag growth

By Thony Rose Lesaca

THE Philippine government’s adoption of a four-day workweek across selected agencies for energy rationing could slow down economic growth and deepen the financial strain on lower-income households, according to Oxford Economics. Meanwhile, the Asian Development Bank said it stands ready to support the Philippines more on a crisis basis, with countercyclical support facilities and trade and supply chain finance programs available to developing member countries.

In a research report dated April 9, the firm warned that the potential spillover of the reduced workweek mandate into the private sector poses a more significant risk amid energy-related shocks.

Oxford Economics said the adjustment could become more “economically damaging,” as fewer working days translate into reduced operating capacity affecting domestic output.

“We estimate a drag of around 0.9 percent of quarterly [gross domestic product], accounting for forward and backward linkages using the Philippines input-output tables,” the firm said.

del

Palace asserts PBBM up and at them

By Charles Dantes

MALACAÑANG on Friday rejected claims circulating online that a recent public appearance by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in Bataan was fabricated using artificial intelligence, urging media and the public to help counter misinformation.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said mainstream media organizations were aware of the authenticity of the President’s engagements and could help verify the facts.

“The mainstream media knows the truth,” Castro said, adding that both traditional and social media practitioners can play a role in disproving false claims.

She stressed that the President continues to carry out his duties and attend official events as part of his mandate.

Castro also called on the public to support the government in addressing disinformation, saying false narratives about the President’s activities appear to be aimed at undermining his leadership. The Palace also criticized Vice President Sara Duterte over her response to a question about Marcos’ health.

Duterte had replied “good luck” when asked for comment, prompting criticism from Castro who described both the question and the response as “irresponsible” and lacking in factual basis.

“Just from the phrase “worsening health,” we already know there’s no basis for it,” Castro said.

‘Dangerous heat levels start’

THE Climate Change Commission (CCC) on Friday called on the public to take extra precautions as heat index levels in several parts of the country have reached the “danger” category during the peak of the summer season.

In a social media post, the CCC said data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) showed that heat index values between 33°C and 41°C fall under “extreme caution” which may cause heat cramps at heat exhaustion; 42°C -51°C under “danger level” and above 51°C as “extreme danger” which could lead to heat stroke.

Heat index is the temperature felt by the human body when relative humidity combines with actual air temperature.

For its heat index report on Friday,

IN BRIEF

PAGASA recorded the highest observed heat index at 42°C in several locations, including Dumangas in Iloilo, Catarman, Northern Samar, Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur, and Cotabato City, Maguindanao. In Luzon, Tuguegarao City in Cagayan; and Ambulong and Tanauan in Batangas recorded a heat index of 40 °C.

Aparri, Cagayan; Echague, Isabela; Baler, Aurora; San Ildefonso, Bulacan; Camiling, Tarlac; Coron, Palawan; and Legazpi City, Albay recorded 39°C. Meanwhile, Pasay City recorded a

Customs seizes P156.4-m smuggled cigarettes in Davao

THE Bureau of Customs has seized smuggled cigarettes worth about P156.4 million as part of the government’s intensified crackdown on illicit trade in excisable goods.

The seizure resulted from a series of operations targeting warehouses flagged through verified intelligence reports, which led to the issuance of Letters of Authority (LOAs), the agency said.

Operatives from the Port of Davao’s Enforcement and Security Service and the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service, in coordination with the Philippine National Police, confiscated a total of 182,821 reams of assorted cigarette brands without the required import permits. The items have an estimated value of P156,436,273.28.

Authorities said the first operation yielded 124,150 reams worth P106.23 million involving identified respondents, while the second operation led to the seizure of 58,671 reams valued at P50.20 million. Vito Barcelo

P91-m shabu, firearms recovered in Parañaque

THE Southern Police District arrested five individuals suspected of drug dealing and seized over P91 million worth of shabu and firearms during a buy-bust operation Thursday night in Paranaque City.

The SPD Drug Enforcement Unit (DDEU) spearheaded the operation in collaboration with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Highway Patrol Group Task Force Limbas, and the Paranaque City Police Station at around 6:28 p.m. in Barangay Sun Valley.

The suspects were identified by their aliases: “Bossing,” 35; “James,” 49, a former police officer; “Jezreel,” 29; “Hazel,” 25; and “Ricardo,” 48. Police classified all of them as highvalue individuals (HVI) in the campaign against illegal drugs.

The operation resulted in the recovery of 13.389 kilograms of shabu and five containers of a liquid crystalline substance valued at P91,045,200, along with two caliber .45 pistols, one Bushmaster rifle, P319,950.00 in cash, and various communication devices. Joel Zurbano

644 hectares of grassland ravaged by 144 forest fires

BAGUIO CITY– More than 644 hectares of forest and grasslands in different parts of the Cordillera were ravaged by some 144 fires that transpired from January to April 10, 2026, an official of the Cordillera office of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP-CAR) said here Friday. BFP-CAR regional information officer Fire Superintendent Katherine Albino said Benguet recorded the most number of forest fires during the said period with 38 incidents followed by Mountain Province with 19 incidents and Abra with 6 forest fires.

Benguet also reported around P108,000 worth of damages. Albino said that 81 fires damaged some 259.56 hectares of grasslands in all the provinces of the region while 63 fires ravaged more than 384.83 hectares of forests in three provinces in the Cordillera. Dexter A. See

BEAT THE HEAT. Visitors swim and enjoy boating in the calm waters of the Upper Wawa Dam in Rodriguez, Rizal. Edd Castro

heat index of 38°C, while Quezon City; Bacnotan, La Union; Clark Airport, Pampanga; Cavite City; and Alabat, Quezon are at 37°C.

In the Visayas, Iloilo City, Iloilo; Catbalogan, Western Samar; and Borongan, Eastern Samar also recorded a 40°C heat index.

Roxas City, Capiz; La Granja and La Carlota, Negros Occidental; and Tacloban City, Leyte recorded 39°C. Meanwhile, Mambusao, Capiz; Siquijor and Maasin, Southern Leyte; and Panglao, Bohol recorded 37°C; while Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, and Mactan, Cebu are at 36°C.

In Mindanao, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte recorded a 41°C; Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte is at 40°C; General Santos City and Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, and Davao City are at 39°C; Surigao City,

Surigao del Norte is at 38°C; and Malaybalay, Bukidnon is at 35°C.

Meanwhile, Itbayat and Basco, Batanes, as well as Tanay, Rizal, both recorded a heat index of 32 °C.

The CCC reminded the public to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat, and limit strenuous outdoor activities, especially during midday hours.

It also urged the public to use protective measures to avoid direct sunlight, such as umbrellas, hats, and sunblock, when going outdoors.

The public is also advised to remain vigilant and monitor official advisories from the weather bureau PAGASA, the Department of Health (DOH), the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Muntinlupa solon: Probe water service of Maynilad

By Maricel V. Cruz

A METRO Manila lawmaker is set to file a resolution in Congress seeking a legislative inquiry into the persistent and disruptive water service issues of west zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services Inc. in Muntinlupa. Muntinlupa Rep. Jaime Fresnedi expressed concern over recurring water interruptions that continue to disrupt daily life across the city—affecting households, businesses, and even government operations.

Based on accounts gathered from his constituents, Fresnedi said the recurring outages have fueled public frustration.

Fresnedi recalled that during a town hall meeting last month, Maynilad committed to coordinating with city officials to ensure the prompt deployment of water tankers for emergency distribution.

However, he said the promised response has not yet materialized.

“Unfortunately, it’s not being done. There are no water tankers seen circulating. That is the general sentiment,” he said.

He said his legislative team is compiling relevant data while preparing a formal resolution seeking a congressional investigation to determine accountability and improve service delivery in Muntinlupa.

The lawmaker said the disruptions force residents—especially those with work obligations the following day—to stay up late waiting for water, a condition he said is intolerable.

CHED must set clear guidelines for online shift Cayetano

By Ram Superable

SENATOR Pia Cayetano on Friday urged the Commission on Higher Education to establish clear benchmarks and a defined timeline for reviewing the implementation of full online classes in higher education institutions.

The move will allow education institutions to shift to 100 percent online classes, ensure learning continuity, and support energy conservation amid the ongoing fuel and power crisis.

“Recent assessments show that learning gaps remain a serious concern across the education system, and with any shift in modality, we must first ensure that our students are truly learning,” said Cayetano.

She raised concerns over widening inequality among students, pointing out that not all learners have access to stable internet connectivity, appropriate devices, or conducive home learning environments.

Face-to-face learning, according to her, re-

mains essential for academic performance and overall student development, including discipline and engagement.

“We cannot ignore the risk that prolonged or widespread reliance on fully online modalities may further widen existing learning gaps,” Cayetano said.

CHED on Tuesday approved the option for higher learning institutions to conduct fully online classes amid the ongoing fuel and electricity crisis.

PH, US seek stronger health cooperation

By Katrina Manubay

THE United States and the Philippines on Thursday (Friday, Manila time) signed a joint declaration to strengthen health cooperation, aiming to boost Manila’s self-reliance in its health system.

In a statement, the US Department of State said the declaration aims to strengthen the Philippines’ ability to address infectious diseases and global health threats such as HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and other infectious conditions.

“Signed through the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Strategy, this Joint Declaration of Intent commits to co-funding mutually agreed upon global health objectives in the near future, furthering US-Philippine bilateral collaboration in the health sector,” the State Department said.

MULTILATERAL TRAINING. Troops from the Philippine Army, US Army Pacific’s 25th Infantry Division, and the Japan Ground Self Defense Force sharpen their skills in a range of warfighting functions as part of the ongoing Salaknib Phase 1 in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

Climate change, a defining issue

By Armenio Manuel

CLIMATE change, often glossed over by many, should be on the mental range of Filipinos, who each year experience scorching summer months and appearingly unceasing floodwaters after, not to mention other natural tragedies like eartquakes and volcanic explosions..

Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily driven by human activities since the 1800s, like burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and gas).

These activities release heattrapping greenhouse gases, causing global temperatures to rise, sea levels to increase, and weather patterns to change.

The issue on climate change is on the bulletin board once again, as we approach and celebrate Earth Day on April 22.

But we argue that awareness of the problems and challenges should not be focused on just one day during the 365 or 366 days of the year.

It should be an everyday awareness, matter of fact.

Earth Day has been celebrated since 1970 and was first observed in the United States, when some 20 million people took to the streets to protest against the 1969 Santa Barbara oil spill.

Earth Day is an important, significant, and symbolic day celebrated annually on April 22 because it serves as the world’s largest secular, civic observance focused on environmental protection and sustainability.

Since its inception in 1970, it has functioned as a vital catalyst for uniting people across borders to address urgent crises such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

Since then, the occasion has played an important role in raising awareness on other environmental issues.

In fact, the landmark Paris Agreement, which was signed by nearly 200 countries to set a common target to reduce global greenhouse emissions, was signed on Earth Day in 2016.

Climate change should be a major discussion issue for humanity because it acts as an existential threat and a threat multiplier, basically disrupting the environment, economies, and social stability.

It is a critical issue because it directly affects the basic resources human life depends on—water, food, and safe shelter—while causing

rapidly escalating hazards that fall hardest on the most vulnerable populations, according to the New York-based Natural Resources Defense Council.

Experts are saying climate change is a “fundamental threat to human health,” declaring increased heatwaves, wildfires, floods, and storms lead to injuries, fatalities, and the spread of diseases.

The World Health Organization projects an additional 250,000 deaths annually between 2030 and 2050 due to malnutrition, malaria, and heat stress.

Authorities have also noted that shifting weather patterns destroy agricultural lands and reduce crop yields, threatening global food supplies.

Declining water availability creates scarcity, which can fuel conflict and increase hunger, with 783 million people already facing chronic hunger.

Climate

Weather-related disasters displace over 20 million people annually, and climate change is expected to cost the global economy hundreds of billions of dollars annually by the end of the century due to damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and property.

Scientists have repeatedly said the world is warming faster than any point in recorded history, which causes “irreversible effects such as sea-level rise threatening coastal cities, accelerated melting of glaciers, ocean acidification, and a massive loss of biodiversity, with 1 million species at risk of extinction.”

Ultimately, climate change is a defining issue because it affects every region on Earth, with 3.6 billion people – from the world’s 8.3 billion population – already living in areas highly susceptible to its impacts like drought, floods, heat stress, and food insecurity.

(The writer is a freelance writer who writes orations for necrological services as well as theses and dissertations for graduate students.)

‘High risk’: US VP Vance tasked by Trump to lead Iran talks

WASHINGTON, DC—It was a war

JD Vance never wanted. Now the US vice president has been tasked with ending it.

Vance heads to Pakistan this week with orders from President Donald Trump to turn the shaky Iran ceasefire into a lasting peace deal.

For the 41-year-old Vance, who has kept a notably low profile during the Middle East conflict, it will be one of the biggest moments of his career.

But the man widely regarded as a leading contender in the 2028 US presidential election will face huge challenges too when talks begin Saturday in Islamabad.

“I cannot think of a case where the vice president ran formal negotiations like this,” Aaron Wolf Mannes, a lecturer at the University of Maryland School of Public Policy and an expert on the American vice presidency’s role in foreign policy, told AFP.

“This is high risk, high reward.”

Vance built his political brand as an avowed anti-interventionist who wanted to keep America out of any more foreign wars, like in Iraq where he served as a US Marine.

That has made for a difficult balancing act after Trump launched the Iran war on February 28. Vance has publicly backed the

conflict but has kept out of the limelight. When the ceasefire was announced, Vance happened to be far away in Hungary, supporting Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s electoral campaign.

The New York Times reported this week that in discussions behind closed doors in the weeks before the war, Vance argued against military action, saying it could cause regional chaos and split Trump’s MAGA coalition.

But Vance now suddenly finds himself as Trump’s diplomatic closer for an Iran deal.

“My key role was, I sat on the phone a lot,” Vance told reporters as he left Hungary this week. “I answered a lot of phone calls. I made a lot of phone calls. And again, I’m happy about where we are.”

Announcing the Islamabad talks this week, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Vance played a “very significant and a key role in this since the very beginning.”

Not always diplomatic

Vance will be accompanied by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner as he becomes the first US vice president to visit Pakistan since Joe Biden in 2011.

EDITORIAL

Make the ceasefire breathe

NEARLY all, with a significant number currently seeking repatriation due to the ongoing conflict, are concentrated in Beirut and its surrounding areas.

The situation is worrying, particularly after reports in the last 48 hours suggested Israeli strikes across Lebanon killed over 250 people in a single day, with 91 deaths confirmed in Beirut alone.

The attacks, described as the deadliest in this phase of the conflict, caused massive casualties, with over 1,100 people wounded nationwide – thus far no Filipino has been reported wounded or dead in Lebanon.

But we add our voice to the government’s call, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, for the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement pursuant to UN Security Council Resolution 170.

The government is on track in urging all parties to fully abide by international humanitarian law, most notably the protection of civilians and UN personnel, including humanitarian, health and media workers.

We endorse the government’s

The DMW has suspended the deployment of new workers to areas under strict Alert Level 3 to prevent exposing more citizens to risk

move in placing Lebanon under Alert Level 3, which means voluntary repatriation is ongoing.

While around 14,000 remain, a large portion has expressed a desire to return home, with hundreds having already been repatriated, with the Philippine Embassy in Beirut actively facilitating the safe return of Filipino nationals.

The Department of Migrant Workers has also joined the

“A CAUSE of action is the act or omission by which a party violates a right of another. The three essential elements of a cause of action are:

(a) a right in favor of the plaintiff...; (b) an obligation on the part of the defendant to respect… such right; and (c) a breach of that obligation by the defendant…” (Taganile v. De los Santos, G.R. 262480, Oct. 29, 2025).

“The Rules of Court require that every ordinary civil action must be based on a cause of action; otherwise, the action is [vulnerable] to dismissal.”

The manner of dismissal, however, depends on whether the plaintiff has no cause of action at all, or whether the complaint merely fails to state a cause of action.

There is a crucial distinction between these two.

Failure to state a cause of action is determined through the following test: “admitting hypothetically the truth of the allegations in the complaint, may [the court] validly grant the reliefs prayed for?

“In applying this test, only the allegations in the complaint are considered. If these allegations furnish a sufficient basis for relief, the complaint should not be dismissed, regardless of any defenses the defendant may raise (Aquino v. Quiazon, cited in Taganile v. De los Santos).

Under the 2019 Amendments to the Rules of Civil Procedure, failure to

The White House said Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Witkoff and Kushner “have always been collaborating on these issues.”

“The President is optimistic that a deal can be reached that can lead to lasting peace in the Middle East,” Principal Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly said in a statement to AFP.

Department of Foreign Affairs in gearing up proactive steps to protect Filipinos in Lebanon during the 2026 security crisis.

We have our hand for the Philippine Embassy in Beirut for continuing to facilitate regular, safe evacuations, including escorting repatriates through the repatriation process to their boarding gates. Waiting for the repatriated Filipinos, according to officials, are an emergency financial aid and reintegration support.

Under the first, repatriated Overseas Filipino Workers receive financial assistance of P150,000 (comprising P75,000 from the DMW Aksyon Fund and P75,000 from the OWWA Emergency Repatriation Fund). Under the second,the DMW and OWWA, in coordination with other agencies, provide psychosocial assistance, medical support, and skills training vouchers (via TESDA) to returnees.

In the meantime, the DMW has suspended the deployment of new workers to areas under strict Alert Level 3 to prevent exposing more citizens to risk.

Nature of a cause of action

A motion to dismiss is now a prohibited pleading, except when grounded on lack of subject matter jurisdiction, res judicata, litis pendentia, or prescription

state a cause of action may be raised only as an affirmative defense in the Answer (Rule 8, Section 12[4]).

This is because a motion to dismiss is now a prohibited pleading, except when grounded on lack of subject matter jurisdiction, res judicata, litis pendentia, or prescription (Rule 15, Section 12).

On the other hand, lack or absence of a cause of action is a substantive issue. Its determination requires an examination of evidence to determine whether the three elements of a cause of action are present.

Accordingly, dismissal on this ground may be raised after the presentation of evidence, such as through a demurrer to evidence under Rule 33. (Op cit.)

In Taganile v. De los Santos, the petitioners alleged, among others,

One theory is that the Iranians may view Vance as a more likely partner for diplomacy given his widely reported opposition to the war, and general doubts about US interventionism.

After Tehran expressed fury over Israel’s continued attacks on Lebanese cities despite the ceasefire deal, Vance appeared to take a softer tone, saying there may have been a “legitimate misunderstanding” from Iran that Lebanon would be included. He hasn’t always been so diplomatic.

A long-term skeptic of support for Ukraine, Vance notoriously kicked off the Oval Office row between Trump and President Volodymyr Zelensky in February 2025.

And for the ambitious Vance, a soon-to-be father of four and Catholic convert, politics is always in the

the invalidity of the subject Original Certificate of Title.

They claimed that they had acquired legal title over portions of the property through acquisitive prescription, and that the OCT issued in favor of the respondents could not have been validly issued.

They further alleged that they had been occupying the property in the concept of an owner until their possession was disturbed by the registration of the OCT. The Court held that their failure to append documentary evidence to the petition did not mean that they failed to state a cause of action. Op cit.)

The Court emphasized that failure to state a cause of action “is a procedural question confined to the pleading, while lack of a cause of action is a substantive issue that [requires] the reception and evaluation of evidence.”

When a court considers matters outside the pleading, it effectively shifts from testing sufficiency to ruling on the merits of the claim. (Op cit.)

Thus, the Court ruled that both the RTC and the CA erred in dismissing the petition for failure to state a cause of action, when what they actually concluded was that the petitioners had no cause of action.

Such a conclusion was premature, as the petitioners had not yet presented their evidence, nor had trial even commenced. (Op cit.)

background.

Since Trump’s return to power, Vance has been unusually prominent in a tough job that is simultaneously one heartbeat away from the presidency yet also, in the words of one former veep, “not worth a bucket of warm spit.”

His crucial role in the Iran talks comes against the backdrop of a looming potential battle with Rubio to be the Republican heir to Trump in two years’ time.

“If he can get something that papers it over without dealing with real issues, that’s probably enough,” said Mannes.

“But if nothing good comes of this, it raises questions about his competence, which is not going to help him electorally. And of course Rubio’s right there as a potential rival for 2028.” AFP

IN BRIEF

China slams US pressure on North Korea on trip to Pyongyang

SEOUL – China’s top diplomat criticized US pressure on North Korea, Pyongyang state media reported on Friday, after he vowed to deepen ties with the diplomatically isolated nuclear state during a visit.

The United States has for decades led efforts to dismantle North Korea’s nuclear program, but summits, sanctions and diplomatic pressure have had little impact.

Beijing is North Korea’s top trading partner and a vital source of diplomatic, economic and political support for the secretive nation.

Wang Yi told a banquet at the Kumsusan State Guesthouse on Thursday that Pyongyang had made “new achievements in socialist construction,” despite what he described as “intensifying schemes of isolation and strangulation” from the United States and Western powers, the Korean Central News Agency reported.

The two-day official visit by Wang -- his first since 2019 -- comes shortly after the neighbors resumed transport links that had been halted since the Covid-19 pandemic.

He told North Korea’s Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui on Thursday that China was “willing to work with North Korea” to “enhance dialogue and practical cooperation at all levels and across various fields, (and) deepen peopleto-people and cultural exchanges,” according to Chinese state news agency Xinhua. AFP

Pentagon ‘violating court order on press access’

WASHINGTON, DC – The Pentagon has failed to comply with a court order to restore press access, a federal judge ruled Thursday, rejecting new restrictions put in place by the department after its prior rules were deemed unconstitutional.

As part of an ongoing lawsuit brought by the New York Times, the court ruled in March that the Pentagon’s changes last year to press access -- which saw credentials from a host of prominent outlets stripped -- violated the constitution. However, the Pentagon responded to the March ruling with even tighter restrictions.

“The very next business day, the Department announced that it was immediately closing the ‘Correspondents’ Corridor’ -- the area in the Pentagon from which journalists had worked for years,” Judge Paul Friedman noted in his Thursday order.

The Pentagon also moved to fully bar journalists from entering the sprawling military headquarters without an official escort. Instead, a new workspace would be provided “in an annex facility.” For decades, vetted journalists from prominent outlets have been granted badges that allow them to freely move through parts of the Pentagon to engage with officials and public affairs staff. AFP

Russia deputy FM hails

‘special’ ties with Cuba

HAVANA – Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov hailed the “special nature” of relations with Cuba on a visit Thursday (Friday, Manila time), where he met President Miguel Diaz-Canel as tensions simmer between Washington and energy-starved Havana.

“Russia is not going to leave the western hemisphere, no matter what they say in Washington,” Ryabkov told a press conference after the meeting, according to Russian state news agency TASS.

“Our relations with Cuba are of a special nature... We can’t just betray Cuba, it’s completely out of the question, we can’t leave it to its fate.”

The meeting, confirmed by DiazCanel’s office on X, came 10 days after a Russian oil tanker arrived in Cuba despite a de facto US fuel blockade.

“We take this opportunity to send a hug to our dear friend, President Vladimir Putin,” Diaz-Canel said in the meeting, according to his office.

Ryabkov said Cuba’s economic issues, including its energy security, were among the main topics of discussion, TASS reported. Under President Donald Trump, the United States has threatened tariffs on any country that attempts to sell oil to Cuba, resulting in an energy crisis on the communist island that has worsened since January.

The US labels Cuba a threat to US national security, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is of Cuban descent, has demanded changes to the island’s leadership. AFP

Melania Trump blasts ‘lies’ linking her to dead Epstein

WASHINGTON , United States – US First Lady Melania Trump made a surprise statement on Thursday denying any knowledge of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse, or that she herself was a victim of the convicted sex offender.

The 55-year-old’s rare on-camera remarks at the White House came out of the blue, in an extraordinary intervention in a scandal that has long haunted her husband President Donald Trump.

“The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today,” she said. “The individuals lying about me are devoid of ethical standards, humility and respect.”

It was not clear why the Slovenianborn former model decided to give the public statement, and she did not detail any specific allegations about her and the late, convicted sex offender.

Melania and Donald Trump had previously been photographed with Epstein, but she said that she had met her husband independently two years prior to meeting Epstein.

“I am not Epstein’s victim. Epstein did not introduce me to Donald Trump,” Melania Trump said.

She said “fake images and statements about Epstein and me” had been circulating on social media “for years now. Be cautious about what you believe: these images and stories are completely false.”

The first lady also urged Congress to hold a public hearing for survivors of Epstein’s abuse to “give these victims their opportunity to testify under oath.”

Two of Epstein’s accusers, sisters Maria and Annie Farmer, reacted to the first lady’s comments Thursday, and told US media in a statement: “We can’t speak for other survivors,

but what we want is accountability, transparency and justice.”

The sisters also called for the release of “the remaining records held by the Department of Justice -- including my complete FBI records from 1996.”

Epstein died in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges involving minors, but the scandal has repeatedly overshadowed Trump’s second presidency.

The US Justice Department has over the past year released huge tranches of files related to Epstein. Trump, 79, has also denied any link to Epstein’s crimes.

One widely-seen picture in the files showed Donald and Melania Trump at their Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida along with Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell.

“I have never had any knowledge of Epstein’s abuse of his victims. I was never involved in any capacity. I was not a participant. Was never on Epstein’s plane, and never visited his private island,” Melania Trump said.

“I have never been legally accused or convinced of a crime in connection with Epstein sex trafficking, abuse of minors and other repulsive behavior.”

Speculation ran riot on social media about why the US first lady had decided to put the Epstein scandal back in the headlines after weeks of relative quiet.

It comes just two days after her husband announced a ceasefire in the US-

Chinese, Taiwanese will unite, Xi tells Taiwan opposition leader Cheng in ‘cross-strait’ rare visit criticized by Taipei

BEIJING, China – China’s President Xi Jinping met Taiwan’s opposition party leader Cheng Li-wun in Beijing on Friday, telling the visiting delegation he had “full confidence” that Taiwanese and Chinese people would be united. Kuomintang chairwoman Cheng is the party’s first leader to visit China in a decade, but her trip has sparked debate in Taiwan with critics accusing her of

being too pro-Beijing.

China severed high-level contact with Taiwan in 2016 after Tsai Ing-wen of the Democratic Progressive Party won the presidency and rejected Beijing’s claims that the self-ruled island is part of its territory.

Xi told Cheng as the two met on Friday that “the general trend of compatriots on both sides of the Strait getting

HOUSTON – The Artemis II astronauts conducted a historic lunar flyby, gathered invaluable data and took in unprecedented Moon views, but one of the most crucial moments of their 10-day mission is still to come: Friday’s splashdown. Earlier this week, Americans Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch along with Canadian Jeremy Hansen voyaged further from Earth than any human before, in a mission considered a key stepping stone towards eventual crewed lunar landings, and more. They are scheduled to splash down in the

a recovery ship. Their journey has been rich in milestones and already resulted in

closer, edging nearer and becoming united will not change”.

“This is an inevitable part of history. We have full confidence in this,” Xi said during the talks carried by Taiwanese media.

Cheng told Xi she hoped the Taiwan Strait would “no longer be a focal point of potential conflict”.

“Both sides should transcend political confrontation...and seek a systemic solution to prevent and avoid war, so that the Taiwan Strait can become a model for peaceful conflict resolution in the world,” she said.

Beijing has sworn to take Taiwan and has not ruled out using force, ramping up military pressure around the selfruled island in recent years.

China conducts near daily deployments of fighter jets and warships near the island and regular large-scale military drills.

Cross-strait relations have worsened in particular since the election of Tsai’s successor, Lai Ching-te, who Beijing considers a separatist.

Lai said in a Facebook post on Friday that “China’s ... military threats in and around the Taiwan Strait and the island chain have severely undermined regional peace and stability”.

Cheng landed in Shanghai on Tuesday evening, saying shortly after her arrival that “the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are not doomed to war, as the international community has feared”. AFP

rarely

The

Ocean temperatures near record high in March, says

EU

PARIS – Ocean temperatures hit near-record highs for March, the Copernicus Climate Change Service said on Friday, signaling a likely shift toward El Nino conditions that can amplify heat extremes on an already warming planet.

Copernicus said average sea surface temperatures were 20.97C in March, the second-highest value ever for the month, and the hottest since 2024 during the last El Nino, when global heat records toppled. This reflected “a likely transition toward El Nino conditions”, said Copernicus, the European Union’s global warming monitor.

Several meteorological agencies had predicted the return this year of El Nino, a natural climate cycle that warms Pacific waters and can bring higher global temperatures and extreme weather.

The World Meteorological Organization said last month an opposite, cooling La Nina cycle was tipped to give way to neutral conditions before swinging into El Nino later this year.

The most recent El Nino in 20232024 was one of the five strongest ever measured and contributed to making those years the second-hottest and hottest on record, respectively. AFP

tions of people on Earth.

But until the astronauts are home safe, it’s too early to talk about success, NASA’s Associate Administrator Amit Kshatriya told a briefing Thursday.

“When we can start celebrating is when we have a crew safely in the medbay of the ship,” the high-ranking official said. “That’s really when we can allow the emotions to take over, and, you know, start talking about success.”

“We need to have the crew home before we do that.”

The stakes are particularly high given concerns that arose during Artemis I, a 2022 uncrewed test flight to the Moon and back that saw the Orion heat shield erode in unexpected ways. The heat shield is vital: During their reentry, the Orion spacecraft will face temperatures peaking around 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit (2,760 degrees Celsius), or half as hot as the surface of the Sun. AFP

Israeli war on Iran, which critics say has left the crucial Strait of Hormuz still largely shuttered by Tehran. But Melania Trump has long been an elusive and often mysterious presence at the White House, who only

gives public remarks of the kind she delivered on Thursday.

last time she was seen with her husband was at an Easter Egg Roll with hundreds of children on Monday. AFP

VISIT SPARKS DEBATE. This handout photo taken and released on Thursday, by the office of Kuomintang shows Kuomintang Chairperson Cheng Li-wun (left) sitting in the cockpit of a display aircraft with Song Tao (right), Director of the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, during a visit to the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China in Shanghai. AFP

JOY, ANXIETY. Artemis II vehicle manager Branelle Rodriguez speaks during a status briefing of the Artemis II crewed lunar mission, on Friday, Manila time, at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. After completing their lunar flyby -- breaking the record for distance from Earth -- the Artemis II crew is bound

‘EPSTEIN’S ABUSE.’ US first lady Melania Trump comes out from the Blue Room to deliver a statement at the Grand Foyer of the White House Friday in Washington, DC. The first lady made a public statement to deny any ties to Jeffrey Epstein. It was not clear why the Slovenian-born former model decided to give the public statement, and she did not detail any specific allegations about her and the late, convicted sex offender. AFP

Verstappen’s Red Bull future in doubt as engineer leaves

LONDON—Four-time world cham-

pion Max Verstappen’s future in Formula One was again cast in doubt on Thursday after it was confirmed that his long-time race engineer will leave Red Bull for McLaren.

After details of Gianpiero Lambiase’s switch emerged earlier on Thursday, Red Bull and McLaren both confirmed the news in separate statements.

Red Bull said Lambiase will leave “in 2028, when his current contract expires” with McLaren confirming he will take on the role of chief racing officer with their team when he starts “no later than 2028”.

The British-Italian engineer, known as ‘GP’, has worked with Verstappen since the Dutchman joined Red Bull a decade ago.

“The team look forward to welcoming Gianpiero Lambiase when his existing contract ends, no later than 2028,” McLaren said in a statement.

“The role of the chief racing officer already exists within the team’s structure with overall leadership of the race team.

“These duties are currently managed by Andrea Stella in addition to his role as team principal.

“Lambiase is the latest hire designed to strengthen and support the talent pool that exists at McLaren Mastercard, while also reaffirming the team’s long-term commitment to confirming its position as a Championship -winning team.”

A Red Bull statement read: “Oracle Red Bull Racing confirms that Gianpiero Lambiase will leave the team in 2028, when his current contract expires. ‘GP’ is a valued member of the team, which he joined in 2015.

“Until his planned departure, ‘GP’ continues in his roles as Head of Racing and as Race Engineer to Max Verstappen. The team and he are fully committed to add more success to our strong track record together.” Lambiase’s exit will mark the departure of yet another senior figure from Red Bull, with Christian Horner sacked as team principal last year.

Design guru Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley both left their posts before Horner’s exit.

It also raises more questions about Verstappen, who last won the world title in 2024, and hinted during last month’s race in Japan he is ready to quit Formula One. AFP

McIlroy, Burns share Masters’ lead with 67s after 1st round

AUGUSTA—Rory McIlroy reeled off three consecutive back-nine birdies to fire a five-under par 67 and seize a share of the lead in Thursday’s opening round of the 90th Masters with top-ranked Scottie Scheffler three adrift.

World number two McIlroy, trying to become only the fourth golfer to win back-to-back Masters titles, curled in a 29-foot birdie putt at the par-five 15th as he matched Sam Burns atop the leaderboard at Augusta National.

“It’s a great start. I’m right into the tournament,” McIlroy said. “Great start but I can’t get ahead of myself. There’s a long way to go, but I’m happy with where I’m at.”

The five-time major champion from Northern Ireland pitched to three feet and tapped in for birdie at the par-five second hole but left a nine-foot par putt hanging on the edge to bogey the third.

McIlroy answered with a tap-in birdie at the eighth after reaching the green in two then made an eight-foot birdie putt at the ninth.

“I settled into the round really nicely,” McIlroy said. “I started to find my game a bit on the back.

“When I was missing tee shots on

MITCHELLEN Cruspero and Matthew Morris delivered standout performances in contrasting fashion to share top honors in the Governor’s Cup Age Group Championships at the NODSEP courts in Dumaguete City last Thursday. Cruspero grabbed the spotlight in the girls’ side, hacking out a gritty 7-5, 5-2 (ret.) victory over Rousey Paliwag in the 16-andunder finals before showcasing her dominance in the premier 18-and-U championship. The rising star from Tayasan imposed her power and control to overwhelm Shara Paliwag, 6-1, 6-2, in the Group 2 tournament presented by Dunlop.

On the boys’ side, local bet Morris thrilled the home crowd with a commanding run, matching Cruspero’s two-title feat. He dropped just three games across four matches in the 16-and-U division, capped by a dominant 6-1, 6-1 win over doubles partner Andrian Rodriguez in the finals.

the front nine, I kept swinging away. Felt sooner or later I would find it, and I did. Found it at the eighth hole and played well from there.”

McIlroy charged to the top with a 14-foot birdie putt at the par-five 13th, a seven-foot birdie putt at the par-four 14th and his impressive putt at 15.

He found a fairway bunker off the 18th tee but landed his approach 41 feet from the hole and two-putted.

“Wind is up and down,” McIlroy said. “It’s not a strong breeze but you can get some gusts and that can affect your ball flight.”

Not since Jordan Spieth in 2016 had a defending champion led after the opening round of the Masters.

“I thought I’d feel different,” McIlroy said after his 2025 win to complete a career Grand Slam. “But when I put my tee in the ground and ball on the tee, I felt the same nerves I always feel.”

Burns, seeking his first major win, made three birdies in four holes on the back nine.

Riding that momentum, Morris carried his form into the 18-and-U category, crushing Hazlie Malicay, 6-2, 6-1, to share MVP honors with Cruspero in the opening leg of the four-stage Visayan swing of the country’s longest-running talent search organized by Palawan Pawnshop under president and CEO Bobby Castro.

Pre-tournament favorite Ayl Gonzaga of Olongapo withdrew at the last minute, opening the door for emerging talents from the host city and nearby areas to shine.

Morris also teamed up with Rodriguez to capture the 18-and-U doubles title, defeating Sky Bacongga and Malicay, 8-4. Cruspero, however, fell short of a three-title sweep as she and Isobel Alipo-on bowed to siblings Shara and Rousey Paliwag, 6-8, in a tightly contested final.

Other singles winners in the tournament hosted by Negros Oriental Gov. Chaco Sagar-

DIGIPLUS Interactive Corp., the country’s premier digital entertainment provider behind BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, is solidifying the Philippines’ presen ce on the global sporting map, securing the staging of world-renowned International Series (IS) for a second straight year.

Building on the success of the 2025 showcase, DigiPlus, through its pioneering brand BingoPlus, is stepping up as title partner for the Philippine Open when it tees off Nov. 12 to 15 at Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club in Carmona, Cavite, officially part of the global tournament’s actionpacked calendar.

“By securing the BingoPlus Philippine Open’s place within the International Series, we are building a sustainable ecosystem for the Filipino

“I drove it really nice,” Burns said. “You can get in some pretty tough spots getting off the fairway. Getting onto the green, I felt like I was able to give myself some opportunities.” Burns was the 54-hole leader in last year’s US Open before a closing 78 left him sharing seventh, his best major result.

Patrick Reed, the 2018 Masters champion, eagled the second and eighth to join fellow American Kurt Kitayama and Australian Jason Day in sharing third on 69. - Xander’s tee bag shotFour-time major winner Scheffler, seeking a third Masters crown in five seasons, shot 70 to share sixth. He sank an 18-foot eagle putt at the second and drove the green at the parfour third to set up a tap-in birdie but got no lower all day.

England’s 45-year-old Justin Rose, the 2013 US Open winner who lost a Masters playoff to McIlroy last year, closed with back-to-back bogeys to join the pack on 70 that also included Ireland’s Shane Lowry and American Xander Schauffele.

Tenth-ranked Schauffele, the 2024 British Open and PGA Championship winner, sent his tee shot at the eighth into a spectator’s souvenir bag but recovered to par the hole. AFP

athlete,” DigiPlus chairman Eusebio H. Tanco said.

“This is ‘Entertainment for Good’ in action, as it utilizes our platform to create opportunities for Filipino talent to excel on the global stage while also showcasing the Philippines as a premier destination not only for sports, but also tourism,” he added.

Launched back in 2022, the International Series marks an evolution for the prestigious Asian Tour.

Backed by massive funding from LIV Golf, the series consists of several elevated tournaments designed to provide a platform for elite talent, allowing players to earn promotions to the high-stakes LIV Golf League.

The Philippine Open is Asia’s oldest national championship, and

PVL semifinals fires off, promises chaos, clutch tiffs

AS the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference semifinals blasts off Saturday at the MOA Arena, PLDT, Cignal, Creamline and Farm Fresh Foxies step into a round where momentum, preparation and nerve collide – and where any squad can seize control at any given moment.

A win won’t guarantee a Finals berth – but a loss could leave scars too deep to recover from.

Cignal battles Farm Fresh at 4 p.m., while PLDT and Creamline collide in a marquee 6:30 p.m. showdown that many believe could double as a preview of the championship series. Fresh legs meet fearless momentum in the first duel.

The Super Spikers and High Speed Hitters enter the Final Four rested and recalibrated, armed with preparation and structure. On the other side, the Cool Smashers and Foxies arrive battle-tested, carrying the emotional high of surviving knockout play-in matches.

Creamline subdued Akari in four sets, while Farm Fresh stunned Nxled in three – victories that underscored belief, grit and the ability to deliver under pressure.

But belief alone won’t be enough now. At this level, execution defines survival.

Farm Fresh’s breakthrough semis appearance in eight conferences adds intrigue to its clash with Cignal. The Foxies are writing a potential Cinderella story, guided by championshipwinning coach Koji Tsuzurabara and powered by scoring leader Trisha Tubu alongside veterans Ces Molina and Royse Tubino.

“I think being mentally ready and physically ready but also just, I think coming out the same way we did today. You know, balls to the walls like, literally go for everything. Positive energy. Chemistry on the court and I think we’ll be okay,” said Farm Fresh playmaker Alohi Robins-Hardy. Yet Cignal holds both experience and a psychological edge, having beaten Farm Fresh in four sets during their Febru ary prelim encounter at the same venue. Still, that result offers little certainty now.

barria and sanctioned by Philta and Universal Tennis included Rousey Paliwag, Zhynaiah Gargaceran, Drig Escobar and Vanjoseph Zamora Jr.. Paliwag dominated Gargaceran, 6-1, 6-2, to claim the girls’ 14-and-U crown, while Gargaceran bounced back to upset top seed Arissa Macapendeg, 6-3, 6-1, in the 12-and-U finals. Escobar staged a comeback to edge Ciaran Alipo-On, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4, for the boys’ 14-andU trophy, while Zamora overwhelmed Xylo Calijan, 6-0, 6-0, to rule the boys’ 12-and-U division. In doubles play, Ciaran Alipo-on and Rothmuel Escobar dominated Cham Fabillar and Blaze Sotto, 8-1, to secure the boys’ 14-and-U title. Macapendeg and Rousey Paliwag, meanwhile, claimed the girls’ crown with an 8-4 win over Marriet Bolongaita and Khia Villarmente. The tournament, backed by the Palawan Group of Companies and ICON Golf & Sports, now shifts to Bacolod City for its next leg beginning Saturday (April 11) at the Verde Aces courts and NOTA courts, where another strong field is expected to compete for top honors and ranking points.

Sam Burns of The United States plays his tee shot on the fourth hole during the first round of the 2026 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. AFP

Matthew Morris (right) holds his trophy as he shares centerstage with Mitchellen Cruspero after a dominant performance in the Governor’s Cup. With them is NOSDEP official Allan Nocete.

Manila Southwoods

The BingoPlus Philippine Open will feature a formidable roster of international champions, headlined by homegrown ace and ArenaPlus ambassador Miguel Tabuena with DigiPlus and BingoPlus powering the showcase, the meet is poised to rejoin prominent golf tournaments around the world.

The BingoPlus Philippine Open will feature

SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

Lady Falcons extend dynasty with 13th straight softball title

THE longest active championship streak in UAAP collegiate competition lives on, as Adamson University secured its 13th consecutive softball title in dominant fashion.

The Lady Falcons blanked the University of the Philippines, 5–0, on Friday at Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila, completing a two-game sweep of the UAAP Season 88 Softball Finals. Adamson delivered an identical 5–0 victory in Game 1 earlier in the week.

With the triumph, the San Marcelino-based squad claimed its 21st overall championship, breaking a tie with Far Eastern University to become the most decorated program in UAAP softball history.

Adamson set the tone early in the clincher, riding a strong opening to

secure yet another historic win and further solidify its dynasty.

Head coach Ana Santiago expressed gratitude and pride in her team’s achievement, emphasizing the hard work behind sustaining their winning tradition.

“Siyempre, grateful and super happy. Thank you, Lord, ipinagdasal namin ‘to, at ipinagdasal ng players ‘to. I’m so proud of them,” Santiago said. “Before the season started, I asked them what they wanted to achieve. When they said they wanted to be champions again to continue the legacy, I reminded them that being a

champion is not easy. They had to be ready for all the preparations—and they were.”

“Kasi, if you want to become a champion, then we will practice like a champion. And super happy ako na nag-step up ‘yung mga nawalan namin ng positions, nag-step up talaga ngayon. And kahit mga bata pa sila, pinakita nila na deserving sila this season.”

Down to one out in the first inning, Reyae Villamin sent a deep fly ball to right field that could have been an easy catch for UP’s Sathia RomeroSalas.

Instead, the rookie Fighting Maroon misplayed the catch, allowing Roma Mae Cruz to score the go-ahead run. Villamin was then rewarded with a run of her own after another defensive error from left fielder Laica Atlas drove in the second run.

Mae Langga, the season’s Best Hit-

ter (BA .480) and Best Slugger (SA 1.040), then delivered her lone hit of the day—a triple down the right-field line past Romero-Salas—to spark the third-inning rally.

The eventual Season 88 MVP and Adamson team captain then extended the lead to three after a sacrifice hit to right field from Villamin.

Three straight hits from Mea Tubongbanua, Jhaycel Roldan, and MJ Libaton produced two more runs, which ultimately stood as the final score as the Adamson defense shut down UP.

“Iba talaga na nag-level up ‘yung kanilang laro. Pero sinabi ko nga sa kanila, at the end of the day, whatever you get this season, be proud of yourselves, kasi kayo ang dahilan kung bakit tayo mag-chachampion,” Santiago, the concurrent Blu Girls head coach, added.

Blazing Spikers rule, Lady Knights rise in NCAA finals

THE National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s volleyball championship is back in Taft after College of Saint Benilde delivered a commanding performance against Mapua University in the winner-take-all Game 3 of the Season 101 finals on Friday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The Blazing Spikers, who dropped the series opener, but bounced back in Game 2, sealed the title with a straightsets victory, 25-23, 25-18, 25-21, ending a nine-year championship drought. In the women’s division, Colegio de San Juan de Letran spoiled Benilde’s bid for a fifth straight title, capturing its first championship in 28 years.

The Lady Knights outlasted the Lady Blazers in a gripping five-set battle, 1525, 25-17, 26-24, 17-25, 15-12, to clinch the NCAA Season 101 women’s volleyball crown in Game 3 at the same venue.

Nailga, Balangauan dominate, eye bigger JPGT battles ahead

LAPU-LAPU City—With commanding, seemingly unassailable leads, Alexis Nailga appeared poised to cruise to victory, but Tashana Balangauan refused to let up, transforming what could have been a routine closing round into an emphatic display of dominance at the ICTSI Mactan Island Junior PGT Championship here on Friday.

The two rising stars delivered standout performances that not only underscored their superiority in the premier 15-18 division but also served as a strong warning to the rest of the field ahead of next week’s Visayas-Mindanao Series leg at the more demanding Alta Vista course in Cebu City.

Nailga, who built a commanding 20-stroke cushion heading into the final round after posting 66 and 69 at the Mactan Island Golf Course, remained focused and maintained a contender’s mindset despite his comfortable lead.

However, he stumbled early with a costly double bogey and a bogey for the second straight day –and a shaky stretch in the middle of the round and a late double-bogey mishap ultimately resulted in a closing 75. He settled for a 15-shot romp with a six-over 210 total in the first leg of the six-stage regional series organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. However, Nailga – unlike Balangauan – will skip

the Alta Vista leg to focus on the Mindanao swing of the southern series, which kicks off at home in Del Monte from April 29 to May 1. Roman Tiongko rebounded from wobbly opening rounds of 80 and 77 with a late surge, carding an even-par 68 to snatch second place at 225, while Sebastian Sajuela shot a 75 to share third place at

Lady Spikers keep guard up against Ateneo belles

UNBEATEN De La Salle University is pulling out all the stops to stay sharp against teams it is expected to beat ahead of its much-anticipated rematch with defending champion National University.

Matched up against two squads expected to bring a nothing-to-lose mentality as their campaigns wind down, assistant coach Noel Orcullo emphasized the need for the Lady Spikers to maintain their high level of play, especially with an outright Finals berth now within reach after an 11-0 start. “’Yun nga yung sinasabi namin sa kanila na kahit wala tayong talo, huwag nating i-pressure ‘yung sarili namin. Huwag tayong mag-dwell doon sa kailangan nating ma-sweep, basta tayo maglaro lang one game at a time, kung ano man ‘yung ini-ensayo natin, kung ano man ang pinaghahandaan natin, kung sino man ang kalaban natin, kailangan magfocus tayo doon. Huwag nating isipin na kailangan ma-sweep namin ‘to, magfocus lang tayo kung ano man ‘yung inumpisahan,” Orcullo said.

La Salle will face longtime rival Ateneo de Manila University at 11 a.m. today (Saturday) at the Filoil Centre, before taking on last-place University of the East on Wednesday next week. Back-to-back wins would secure the Taft-based squad the No. 1 ranking in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball eliminations. If everything falls into place, the La Salle–Lady Bulldogs clash on April 19 could ultimately determine whether the tournament proceeds with a traditional Final Four or a step-ladder format. The Blue Eagles, who are enduring their first 10-loss season in the Final Four era, are looking to play with no pressure and finish their campaign on a high note. Ateneo, which lost to La Salle 14-25, 2521, 17-25, 17-25 in the first round, has now dropped its last 16 meetings dating back to April 8, 2017, in Season 79.

Spin Doctors move closer to volley finals

SAVOUGE raised its level after dropping a tight opening set, defeating AEP Cabstars, 25-27, 25-15, 25-19, 25-16, to move a step closer to the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference Finals on Friday at the Filoil Playtime Centre in San Juan.

The Spin Doctors’ victory made them the last remaining unbeaten team in the round-robin semifinals at 2-0— just one win away from completing a sweep of the three-game set. Savouge now turns into an interested observer of the Criss Cross-Alpha Insurance match, which was ongoing as of publishing time. A win by the King Crunchers would hand the Spin Doctors their first-ever Finals berth in franchise history in the league organized by Sports Vision and supported by Alpha Insurance, Black Mamba, Premiere EMS, and ArenaPlus.

233 with Ritchie Go, who turned in a 76. In the girls’ division, Balangauan refused to treat the final round as a mere formality. Armed with a commanding 13-stroke overnight lead, she played with relentless focus, methodically stretching her advantage with a closing 71. She punctuated her round with three birdies over the final six holes, highlighted by a pitch-in eagle on the last, sealing the tournament with a 226 total for an emphatic 20-shot victory. Apple Gothiong placed second at 246 after a 78, while Lois Lane Go pooled a 249 after a 77 for third.

While the premier division turned into a showcase of dominance, the younger age groups, disputed over 36 holes, delivered the tournament’s most gripping moments.

In the 7-10 boys’ category, Ethan Lago had to dig deep in the closing stretch to hold off a determined Lucas Revilleza, while Akeisha Yocte outlasted Vanya Go and Zoey Mascariñas in a tightly contested girls’ race last Thursday.

The 11-14 division also featured intense battles, with Ralph Batican and Marqaela Dy emerging victorious after hard-fought campaigns.

Nailga and Balangauan thus head into the next leg brimming with confidence – but with the understanding that tougher challenges await on a more exacting stage.

“Nag-stick lang kami sa sistema, and sabi ko lang, prepared sa drop balls and kung ano ‘yung approach ng spikers nila sa kabila. So, second set, nagadjust kami. Sabi ko, hindi puwedeng puro drop ball; dapat lagyan namin sila ng pressure, and hayun, nagsunodsunod na,” said Savouge head coach Sydney Calderon.

Savouge’s Louie Ramirez

The Spin Doctors were at set point in the opening frame, 24-22, but squandered the lead as Nas Gwaza, Jay Rack Dela Noche, and EJ Casaña combined for a 5-1 closing run to steal the set, 27-25.

Savouge, however, responded emphatically, dominating the second set, 2515, and never looked back.

The Adamson Lady Falcons rejoice after securing their 13th straight UAAP softball crown.

The Benilde Blazing Spikers are picture of triumph against a dejected Mapua squad. Letran’s LJ Isar celebrates.

Tashana Balangauan Manny Marcelo

By Othel V. Campos

THE Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) proposed a valueadded tax (VAT) adjustment mechanism to protect businesses and consumers from volatile fuel prices, even as a ceasefire between the United States and Iran eases global tensions.

FPI chairperson Elizabeth Lee said the temporary de-escalation may soften global oil prices, but noted that domestic relief will not be immediate because firms continue to operate on high-cost inventories and existing supply contracts.

FDI inflows in January 2026

FDI inflows in December 2025

$443 million $560 million $729 million

FDI inflows in January 2025

Foreign direct investments in PH drop to 4-month low

By Thony Rose Lesaca

FOREIGN direct investment (FDI) inflows to the Philippines dropped to a four-month low of $443 million in January 2026 as investors grew cautious amid rising geopolitical risks and tight global financial conditions, data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed.

The latest figure was 39.2 percent lower than the $729 million recorded in the same month last year, according to the BSP. It also dropped from $560 million logged in December 2025.

This represents the lowest level of inflows since September 2025, when FDIs fell to $316 million.

The decline was led by a 56.6-percent contraction in the reinvestment of earnings, which fell to $53 million from $122 million.

NPC ensures adequate power supply in off-grid areas despite fuel price hikes

By Alena Mae S. Flores

STATE-RUN National Power Corp.

(NPC) assured lawmakers there will be no blackout in its missionary areas despite a looming P10-billion budget shortfall triggered by surging diesel prices.

National Power Corp. president Jericho Nograles said the commitment to keep the lights on remains a priority even as the Middle East crisis pushes fuel costs far beyond the agency’s projections. Under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001, the firm should provide electricity to off-grid areas through its Small Power Utilities Group.

The agency expects a P1.4 billion monthly deficit for the remainder of the year if diesel prices remain at P127 per liter.

The NPC originally budgeted P60 per liter and included a 50-percent buffer for potential conflict, allowing for prices up to P92.

“That’s part of our forward-thinking,” Nograles said.

“We had prepared prior to the war an allowance for fuel to reach P92. Currently, Napocor is purchasing fuel at P127 per liter. If it stays the same, we will have a budget shortfall,” he said. Nograles said that while the firm has managed costs through March and April, the full financial impact will hit in May. The agency utilized austerity measures, budget realignment and reprioritization to maintain

operations during the initial price surge.

“That is the least we can do to keep the lights on,” Nograles said.

“When the war broke out, I sought guidance from my board, and my board told me that brownouts are prohibited,” he said.

To address the funding gap, the firm is seeking a budget allocation from Congress and a loan facility. Nograles said the situation leaves the agency with few alternatives to maintain service.

“In a high-cost fuel scenario, there are really only two situations,” he said.

“The weaker FDI inflow in January likely reflects continued investor caution amid elevated geopolitical risks, tight global financial conditions and uncertainty over the global growth outlook, which appear to have weighed on intercompany funding flows,” Asuncion said. Ongoing tensions in the Middle East present further downside risks that could extend energy price volatility and dampen investor sentiment, Asuncion sasid.

“Near-term inflows may remain uneven,” he said

Nonresidents’ investments in debt instruments also decreased 38.3 percent to $320 million from $519 million a year earlier. The BSP said equity capital placements in January came mostly from Japan, the United States and South Korea. These funds were channeled into the manufacturing, real estate and wholesale and retail trade sectors. The drop reflects a continued reluctance to engage with domestic resources given the current global climate, Union Bank of the Philippines chief economist Ruben Carlo Asuncion said.

The impact extends beyond fuel to petroleum-based industries such as plastics and packaging. Logistics providers also continue to grapple with elevated costs. Freight adjustments have pushed transport expenses up by as much as 20 percent, which feeds into higher production and consumer prices.

Lee floated a price-smoothing mechanism that would adjust the effective VAT based on a reference oil price. The proposal aims to temper sharp swings while maintaining fiscal discipline.

“The reality is that elevated energy costs dampen consumption and constrain output. A calibrated VAT adjustment can help stabilize prices without undermining revenues,” Lee said.

The industry group also urged targeted, time-bound support for vulnerable sectors, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises and energy-intensive industries, to sustain jobs and purchasing power.

Lee cited the need to strengthen domestic production through a “Buy Local” strategy to reduce import dependence and improve supply chain resilience.

FINTECH ALLIANCE. FinTech Alliance PH, the country’s largest and most influential organization of digital finance players, announces its newly elected board of trustees, reinforcing its leadership in advancing financial inclusion, innovation and responsible digital transformation. Lito Villanueva (center), executive vice president and chief innovation and inclusion officer of RCBC, continues as chairman. Othe members of the board are Oscar Enrico Reyes Jr. of G-Xchange Inc., Angelo Madrid of Maya Philippines, Martha Elaine Borja of Maribank Philippines Inc., Lawrence Ferrer of CIS Bayad Center, Zdenek Jankovsky of Home Credit Philippines, Christian Lauron of SGV & Co/Ernst & Young, Deanno Basas of Atram Trust Corporation, JJ Disini of Disini Law Office, Imelda Tiongson of Pru Life UK, Manish Bhai of Uno Digital Bank, Griselda Santos of FinTech Alliance, Wei Zhou of Coins.ph and Aiken Larisa Serzo of Disini & Disini Law Office.

Shareholders approve ALTER’s P5-b share offering

By Alena Mae S. Flores

SHAREHOLDERS of Alternergy Holdings Corp. approved Friday the shelf registration for a future public offering of P5 billion in green perpetual preferred shares.

During a special stockholders meeting, shareholders approved the shelf registration and future offering of up to 50 million green preferred shares. The shares will be offered in one or more tranches at P100 per share from the company’s unissued capital stock.

“With our recent Green Energy Auction awards, any issuance of green preferred shares will form part of our capital raising needs,” Alternergy president Gerry Magbanua said. “We see this unanimous approval as a vote of confidence in renewable energy’s potential, especially amidst global energy security concerns— it is a clear signal that sustainable investments are on the right track.”

The public offering is subject to regulatory approval by the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Philippine Stock Exchange. Magbanua said once regulators give the go-ahead, any issuance will be timed to take market conditions into account.

“We will time any issuance tactically, keeping a close eye on global macroeconomic trends and local market conditions,” he said.

Magbanua stressed that renewable energy is the clearest path to energy security, noting that recent Middle East

tensions highlighted the vulnerability of the global and Philippine economies. “It is time to move faster towards renewables,” he added.

Alternergy recently began commercial operations at two new plants: the 28-MWp Balsik Solar Power Plant in Hermosa, Bataan, and the 5-MW Dupinga Run-ofRiver Hydro Power Plant in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija. Meanwhile, construction of the 128-MW Tanay Wind and 64MW Alabat Wind projects has reached approximately 80 percent completion.

With those projects nearing completion, Alternergy has begun development on its next pipeline. Proceeds from the planned issuance will fund five GEA 4 projects with a combined capacity of up to 500 MW across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

These projects include the Liberty Floating Solar (Phase A and B), Kalandagan Solar + Battery Energy Storage System, Alegria Wind and Tayabas North Wind.

Alternergy is a renewable power pioneer with a portfolio spanning wind, run-ofriver hydro, solar farms, commercial rooftops, battery storage and offshore wind. The company aims to bring 1 gigawatt of renewable energy capacity into commercial operation by 2030.

PH stock index posts slim gain; peso closes at 59.97 a dollar

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE shares registered marginal gains Friday as investors maintained a cautious stance amid lingering uncertainties in the Middle East.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index inched up 8.30 points, or 0.14 percent, to end the week at 6,098.21.

The broader all shares index dipped 6.63 points, or 0.19 percent, to 3,408.53.

The peso closed stronger Friday at 59.97 to the U.S. dollar, breaking back below the 60 level.

“The local stock market edged higher taking cues from Wall Street’s overnight rise,” Philstocks Financial Inc. research head Japhet Tantiangco said. “This comes on hopes of positive outcomes between the U.S. and Iran in their upcoming negotiations in Islamabad, Pakistan.”

Analysts said investors will continue to monitor geopolitical developments, inflation risks and the movement of the peso against the dollar.

Sectors ended mixed. Services advanced the most, up 1.97 percent, followed by mining and oil, which rose 1.72 percent. The property sector lost the most, down 1.41 percent.

Value turnover reached P6.48 billion.

Market breadth remained negative as decliners outnumbered gainers 102 to 100.

“This shows that many investors are still taking a cautious stance amid lingering

uncertainties among the countries involved in the war,” Tantiangco said.

Foreign investors turned net buyers with inflows of P1.51 million.

Asian stocks rose Friday with investors still optimistic about the shaky US-Iran ceasefire ahead of weekend talks, though oil prices extended gains on worries over Israel’s attacks on Lebanon and Saudi Arabia’s warning about production capacity.

Tuesday’s announcement of a two-week truce that would see the Strait of Hormuz reopened, having been closed since the start of the war, sparked a wave of euphoria across markets.

But hopes for an end to the crisis have been hit by squabbles over the agreement and the future of the key waterway, through which about a fifth of the world’s oil and gas passes.

US and Iranian delegations are due in Pakistan for peace talks, which come as Tehran says Israel has already broken terms of the ceasefire by continuing to hit Lebanese targets, where Israel says Iranbacked Hezbollah is located.

The United States and Israel deny an end to attacks on Lebanon was in the deal.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump warned on Thursday against Iran’s plan to charge a toll for ships passing through Hormuz, saying on social media: “They better not be and, if they are, they

BUSINESS

FOOD FAIR. Celebrating the excellence and ingenuity of Filipino food entrepreneurs, the Department of Trade and Industry launches the 2026 Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair, gathering some of the country’s finest food-based MSMEs in one vibrant platform. The fair underscores the growing strength of the local food industry, from beloved regional delicacies to innovative, market-ready products with upgraded packaging. With a focus on quality, creativity, and market expansion, the event highlights the resilience and world-class potential of Filipino enterprises. The DTI continues to take pride in empowering MSMEs and showcasing the best of Philippine flavors to a wider audience.

Farmers oppose zero corn tariffs, warn of P12-b loss

CORN farmers could lose nearly P12 billion if the government pushes through with a proposal to remove tariffs on corn imports, prompting strong opposition from the Federation of Free Farmers and the MAGSASAKA party-list.

The tariff cut was reportedly raised during a recent meeting between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and business groups as part of efforts to cushion the impact of the energy crisis on retail prices of chicken and pork.

The FFF and MAGSASAKA said eliminating tariffs would lower the landed cost of corn by about P1.70 per kilo. This would translate into a similar reduction in the production cost of broiler chicken, as roughly one kilo of corn is used to produce a kilo of chicken. Even if the savings are

fully passed on, the groups said retail chicken prices would decline by less than 1 percent.

The groups warned that about 2 million corn farmers cultivating 2.3 million hectares could incur nearly P12 billion in losses if farmgate prices fall by P1.70 per kilo.

“Coupled with rising fuel and farm input costs, a zero tariff may force half of corn farmers to stop production over an estimated 1.15 million hectares,” FFF board chairman Leonardo Montemayor said.

At present, corn imports carry a 5 percent tariff if sourced from ASEAN or brought in under the minimum access volume system, while other imports are charged 15 percent. In 2025, local production met only 60 percent of demand, with imports of corn

and substitutes such as feed wheat filling the gap.

MAGSASAKA chairman Argel Joseph Cabatbat said the government should instead help hog and poultry raisers secure cheaper veterinary medicines, vaccines and other inputs that are not locally produced.

Montemayor and Cabatbat added that feedgrain manufacturers and livestock producers have already benefited from tariff concessions and are allowed to import substitutes such as feed wheat and barley at reduced rates. They said cutting tariffs now would send the wrong signal to corn farmers already burdened by higher fuel, fertilizer and labor costs, and could deepen the country’s reliance on imports during a time of tighter global supply.

NFA ensures rice supply after record purchase

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Agriculture assured the public that rice stocks in National Food Authority warehouses remain sufficient following record procurement in 2025, even as demand for the government’s P20-per-kilo rice program rises.

Beneficiaries of the “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program are urged to register online to ensure orderly access, reduce congestion at distribution sites, and prevent potential misuse.

“We implemented online registration to ensure that the most vulnerable sectors benefit from the P20-per-kilo rice, especially during these challenging times,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said. “For those who can afford to pay slightly more, Food Terminal Inc. offers affordable rice through the Rice-for-All initiative, which has helped stabilize supply.”

The DA said the digital registration system is also intended to curb subsidy abuse.

“We’ve caught buyers presenting fake IDs, suggesting that some are exploiting the program at the expense of legitimate beneficiaries,” said Assistant Secretary Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra, head of the KADIWA ng Pangulo program.

“We appeal for cooperation from the public. Abuse of the system ultimately harms the most vulnerable among us.”

To increase domestic supply ahead of the upcoming harvest season, the DA allowed limited rice imports starting in January.

The conflict involving the United States and Iran has driven up freight, insurance, and input costs following disruptions in key shipping routes.

This includes the Strait of Hormuz, a major corridor for oil and fertilizer shipments.

“If necessary, we are ready to tap other rice-exporting countries to secure additional supply,” Tiu Laurel said.

President Marcos has approved a proposed P50-per-kilo price cap on imported rice, with an executive order for its implementation expected soon.

Food inflation among the country’s bottom 30 percent of households rose to 3.7 percent in March from 1.9 percent in February, driven mainly by price increases for cereals, fish, and vegetables.

The DA is also securing fertilizer supplies and accelerating infrastructure programs—including farm-to-market roads, post-harvest facilities, and rice processing systems—to reduce production costs and improve farmers’ incomes.

“Our goal is to ensure sufficient rice supply while keeping prices manageable,” Tiu Laurel said. “These measures support both consumers and farmers as they navigate current challenges and help safeguard food security.”

Global Seed transitions to Filipino-led operations

GLOBAL Seed Savers, a nonprofit organization that has worked with Filipino farmers for more than 16 years to preserve heirloom seeds and protect agricultural biodiversity, announced its full transition of operations to the Philippines.

The move establishes Global Seed Savers as a fully Filipino-led and Filipinobased organization, marking a milestone that reflects the strength and maturity of its local team and partnerships.

Executive Director Hal Atienza and the Philippine board of directors said the organization will continue its mission to promote sustainable communities and advance seed sovereignty. All programs and community initiatives will proceed without interruption.

“Filipino farmers have always been at the heart of Global Seed Savers,” Atienza said. “This transition formalizes that reality. We will continue to train farmers, protect heirloom seeds and strengthen the communities that sustain us, working directly alongside them.”

As part of the transition, founder and chief executive Sherry Manning will step down after building the organization from a small initiative into a nationally recognized advocate

for seed sovereignty, though she will remain involved as an advisor and financial supporter. Manning said the organization now belongs to the farmers and the team in the Philippines who made the transition possible.

Founded in 2010, Global Seed Savers has developed strong partnerships with farming communities across the country. Its initiatives include the Seed School, which has trained more than 5,000 farmers in seed-saving techniques; six community seed libraries established nationwide to enable local banking and exchange; and a seed inventory tracking system to monitor distribution and germination.

The group also maintains partnerships with Indigenous communities to protect traditional farming practices.

Atienza assured that existing partnerships with farmers, local governments and donors will remain in place. While U.S.based donors and foundations continue to support the organization, efforts are underway to further strengthen its Philippine donor base, he added. The U.S. office will close July 31, 2026, with a small group of board members remaining to oversee final governance matters.

Othel V. Campos

Manila Standard TODAY

PAW SHAKE. A young girl shares a gentle “paw-shake” with a mascot during the Easter Parade at SM City Batangas. Norman Cruz

SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor

ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

US chamber lauds PH piracy fight

PhilWeb secures accreditation as gaming affiliate

PHILWEB Corp. said it is strengthening its position in the Philippine regulated gaming industry after securing accreditation from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp (PAGCOR) as a gaming affiliate and support service provider.

The accreditation allows the company to provide technology and operational services to licensed gaming operators within the PAGCOR system.

PhilWeb supports online gaming platforms for major integrated resort operators including Okada Manila and Hann Casino Resort through system integration and infrastructure services.

Under the new framework, the company is transitioning toward an asset-light B2B model. This strategy focuses on platform management and systems integration to create more recurring revenue streams as the sector formalizes.

PhilWeb said it is also deploying scalable platform solutions across a nationwide network of venues through a collaboration with FBM Philippines. The company said it is participating in technical working groups with regulators to develop standards for consumer protection and industry transparency.

“This is a pivotal stage for the industry as it moves toward a more structured and transparent framework,” PhilWeb president Brian Ng said.

“We are committed to supporting this transition by delivering reliable and scalable technology solutions while actively engaging with stakeholders to help strengthen the overall ecosystem,” he said.

The company said its infrastructure capabilities include platform technology and operational support for large-scale distributed gaming operations.

By aligning with PAGCOR’s efforts to modernize the sector, PhilWeb said it aims to position itself as a primary infrastructure partner for licensed operators in the region.

By Othel V. Campos

THE United States Chamber of Commerce recognized the Philippines for its intensified campaign against counterfeiting and piracy in its 2026 International IP Index, noting significant improvements in the country’s enforcement framework.

The Philippines maintained its rank at 36th out of 55 economies in the annual index. However, the report highlighted stronger coordination and proactive enforcement efforts led by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL).

The group cited

the agency’s expanded enforcement powers and deeper partnerships with rights holders to address physical counterfeiting and online infringement.

A primary initiative noted in the report is the E-commerce memorandum of understanding, a voluntary agreement IPO- PHL

facilitated to establish cooperation between property owners and online platforms.

The mechanism includes streamlined notice-and-takedown procedures and proactive monitoring of suspected infringing listings.

Participation in the agreement grew from 12 signatories in 2021 to 118 participants, including brand owners, industry groups and major platforms such as Shopee, Lazada, Zalora and TikTok Shop.

The index also credited progress in trademark protection, specifically for well-known marks.

IPOPHL recently established

a Register of Well-Known Marks to provide rights holders with greater legal certainty against the unauthorized use of similar or identical marks.

The implementation of the Internet Transactions Act should further strengthen online protection over time. The report also pointed to ongoing Senate deliberations regarding amendments to the IP Code and the development of HAPAGISIPAN, the Philippine Intellectual Property Strategy for 2025–2030.

“Rest assured that we will continue to advance proactive measures in protecting brand owners through IPOPHL’s enforcement activities, including the E-Commerce MOU which continues to grow in participation and impact,” IPOPHL acting directorgeneral Nathaniel Arevalo said.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PROPERTY developer Cebu

Landmasters Inc. (CLI) expanded its land bank in Luzon with the acquisition of a 70-hectare property in Dasmariñas, Cavite, according to a stock exchange disclosure on Friday.

The company said it plans to develop the site as its flagship township in the region. The project

IN BRIEF

ME conflict to stress Philippine banks

SOUTH and Southeast Asian banks, including those in the Philippines, face the clearest credit risk from a prolonged Middle East conflict, but the impact will likely emerge gradually through standalone credit profiles, Fitch Ratings said Thursday.

Higher energy prices, supply-chain disruption and weaker remittance flows would weigh most on emerging-market banking systems. These regions have lower borrower resilience and greater exposure to inflation and external shocks.

Fitch Ratings analysts said the key credit question is which systems and loan segments deteriorate first if the shock persists, rather than whether banks face immediate stress.

Asset-quality pressure would likely appear first in vulnerable retail, microenterprise and small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) loan books.

Fitch said that in the Philippines, the effect may be more pronounced than in previous shocks because recent loan growth has shifted toward micro, SME and consumer segments as banks reduced concentrations to large conglomerates.

Local banks have increased their exposure to smaller borrowers, where repayment capacity is often more sensitive to price spikes.

PhilHealth covers heat-related illnesses

STATE-RUN Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) reminded its members that insurance coverage for heat-related illnesses and common summer diseases remains available to protect Filipinos from health risks associated with rising temperatures. The state insurer issued the reminder as the dry season begins, noting that inpatient benefit packages are accessible in any PhilHealth-accredited hospital nationwide to help reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Under the current benefit structure, PhilHealth provides P12,675 for cases

of heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat collapse, heat cramp, and sunstroke. Patients diagnosed with heat fatigue and other effects of heat and light are eligible for P18,135 in coverage.

The agency said it also covers several other conditions frequent during the summer months. Moderate to severe dehydration and varicella or chickenpox without complications are covered at P7,800. Benefits for typhoid fever are set at P19,500, while sore eyes or conjunctivitis coverage stands at P16,575.

PhilHealth said it provides P11,700 for infectious diarrhea or acute gastroenteritis. Members seeking treatment for the toxic effects of contact with fish and other marine animals such as jellyfish, sea anemone, shellfish, and starfish can avail themselves of P11,115 in benefits.

Manila Water expands Rizal network

MANILA Water Company said it is ramping up its mainline extension projects across Rizal Province to provide continuous water supply to thousands of additional homes and businesses.

Residents of San Mateo, Rizal recently gained a more reliable water supply following the completion of a mainline extension project along AFP Road in Banyuhay Subdivision, Barangay Silangan.

The project included the installation of a 924.5-meter, 100-millimeter mainline designed to expand coverage and improve accessibility. Construction started in April 2025 and finished in January 2026.

With the new infrastructure in place, more than 160 service connections or nearly 1,000 residents are expected to benefit from 24/7 water availability. This is part of the company’s broader strategy to strengthen distribution networks in growth areas, ensuring water resources reach customers efficiently.

Similar to previous expansions in San Mateo and nearby towns, the Banyuhay project supports long-term water security by reducing service fluctuations during peak demand.

features a residential master plan offering approximately 6,000 homes across economic and mid-market segments to be launched in multiple phases.

The master plan allocates dedicated spaces for commercial, institutional and estate facilities. CLI designed the project to support a self-sustaining and integrated community near Governor’s Drive and the CaviteLaguna Expressway (CALAX).

CLI chairman and chief executive Jose Soberano III said this represents

a key step in widening the company’s reach and entering new growth markets.

“As we expand beyond our Visayas and Mindanao stronghold, we aim to bring CLI’s brand of service, quality, and thoughtfully planned communities to Luzon, unlocking new economic opportunities, creating jobs, and contributing to sustained regional growth while responding to the evolving needs of Filipino homebuyers,” Soberano said.

The initial phases of the township

are targeted for near-term launch, with the first developments expected between 2027 and 2028.

The Dasmariñas property marks the second acquisition for CLI in Luzon. It follows the purchase of a 3.5-hectare plot in Pasig City, which the company will develop into an 8-tower Japanese-inspired residential and retail complex. The Pasig project is scheduled for launch in 2026 in partnership with Japan-based NTT Urban Development Corp.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

VELOX Networks, a Singaporebased cloud telephony provider, expanded its operations into the Philippines to capitalize on landmark telecommunications legislation aimed at modernizing the country’s voice and data infrastructure.

This marks the company’s third Southeast Asian market after Singapore and Malaysia. The expansion follows the signing of Republic Act No. 12234, also known as the Konektadong Pinoy Act, in early 2026.

The law mandates shared telecommunications infrastructure and eases entry for new providers to offer enterprise services, targeting long-standing barriers in a sector historically dominated by a few incumbents.

Velox Networks founder and chief executive Martin Nygate said the Phil-

ippines has reached an inflection point.

“New legislation is finally creating the regulatory framework for modern telecommunications infrastructure, and businesses across the country are ready for enterprise-grade voice solutions that don’t depend on aging copper and cable networks,” Nygate said. He said cloud telephony eliminates the need for physical cable networks by delivering infrastructure over the internet.

“For a country that’s actively trying to move beyond its cable infrastructure challenges, that’s a compelling proposition,” Nygate said.

The Philippine landscape is characterized by “spaghetti wires,” or tangled overhead cables that pose safety hazards. In response, the Metro Manila Council recently passed a resolution to remove or bury these cables underground.

PHILIPPINE banks’ bad loan ratio rose to a six-month high of 3.33 percent in February 2026 as the lagged impact of high interest rates and early seasonal cash-flow pressure affected the ability of borrowers to pay.

Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed the gross non-performing loan (NPL) ratio was higher than the 3.31 percent recorded in January but lower than the 3.38 percent seen in February 2025. Total NPLs climbed to P553.68 billion in February from P513.35 billion last year and P550.81 billion in the previous month.

Reyes Tacandong & Co. Senior Adviser Jonathan Ravelas said the slight uptick in NPLs reflected the lagged impact of high interest rates from 2025, early seasonal cash-flow pressure and faster loan growth. He said a bit of slippage under these circumstances is normal at the margin. “What we’re seeing is less a credit problem and more a normalization story. At around 3.33 percent, NPLs remain very manageable and well below stress levels, with banks still well-capitalized and properly provisioned,” Ravelas said.

The total loan portfolio of the banking system declined to P16.60 trillion in February from P16.64 trillion in the previous month, but it rose from P15.17 trillion a year ago. Past due loans also grew to P715.66 billion from P637.81 billion in February 2025.

“Bottom line: this is a mild bump, not a red flag—but it reinforces the need for closer credit monitoring if rates stay high longer,” Ravelas said. Thony Rose Lesaca

TRIPLE AWARDS.

Citi Philippines chief exevutive and banking head Paul Favila (center) with corporate

INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP. TP in the Philippines (formerly Teleperformance) is recognized by the Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce Philippines (ANZCHAM) with the Thought Leadership Award and the Community Engagement Award. Receiving the awards during ANZCHAM’s 45th annual general membership meeting are (from left) TP in the Philippines executive vice president for

TECH

A sneak peek at HONOR’s game-changing Robot Phone

OLLOWING

Fthe recently concluded Mobile World Congress 2026, HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng gets his hands on one of today’s most talkedabout devices—the HONOR Robot Phone—featuring a built-in gimbal camera engineered for ultrastable, professionalgrade photography and videography.

Brand Finance;

The Robot Phone blends robotics with smartphone tech in a way that feels seamless and easy to use, giving a glimpse of how HONOR sees the future of smart devices—more intuitive, more interactive, and built around real human needs. It also comes with smart AI features that can track subjects, adjust angles on the fly, and help you capture better shots with less effort. Paired with its robotic design, it creates a more engaging and hands-on experience compared to traditional smartphones.

There’s no official word yet when

HONOR Robot Phone: Is the future of smartphones arriving in the Philippines sooner than we think?

the HONOR Robot Phone will be available in the market, but HONOR says more details are coming soon. For more exciting announcements, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/ HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.

Globe in top 10 of world’s strongest telco brands

GLOBE is reinforcing its commitment to provide dependable, life-saving connectivity as it marks a historic entry into the top 10 strongest telecom brands worldwide.

The 2026 Brand Finance Telecoms 150 report identifies Globe as one of the world’s most resilient operators, awarding the company an AAA brand rating and a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 86.4 out of 100. For Globe, this elite ranking serves as an affirmation of how the company provides connectivity to its

LEADING fiber broadband and technology solutions provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is further expanding its workforce, particularly in network expansion and maintenance, to complement its heavy investments in digital infrastructure.

Following the launch of its National Digital Infrastructure in Pampanga and its announcement of a 30% increase in capital expenditure for network hardening, Converge is complementing these efforts with a sustained campaign of hiring more network technicians to reach more areas nationwide and improve customer response.

“With the national digital infrastructure in place, we also need to invest in people who run and maintain our fiber network.

One of the things I lament is that Filipino talent is always lured to find opportunities abroad, and this is true also for skilled technicians. With our hiring campaign, we hope to fill in this gap in human resources,” said Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy. Since late-2025, the People and Culture (P&C) Group of Converge, which oversees recruitment of personnel, has mounted weekly open houses, regional caravans, and academe-governmententerprise partnerships.

This has resulted in hiring nearly 600 technicians as of the first quarter of the year, across the broad segments of the network encompassing personnel for backbone maintenance, outside plant (or OSP), and service linemen.

“Every mile of fiber laid is a bridge built between a personal dream and a global reality. We aren’t just ramping up technicians; we are empowering the messengers of the digital world. Moreover, our hiring initiatives bring opportunities closer to communities through PESO partnerships, regional recruitment caravans, and local TESDA collaborations. By targeting specific locations, regions, and barangays, we enable technicians to work nearer to home and serve the communities that rely on our networks,” said Mylene Sardinia, Converge SVP and P&C Head.

Akin to the rapid hiring of Converge during the pandemic, the company made full use of its online presence to reach out to applicants. Apart from the usual online channels (such as job boards), Converge advertised jobs on Facebook and LinkedIn and made sure to supplement these with faceto-face activities, including one-day hiring events.

According to Sardinia, the development of Converge technicians is a continuous process. Converge

LEADIND global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is set to redefine durability and performance with the launch of its newest tablet—engineered to withstand the demands of modern, on-the-go lifestyles.

“If there’s anything I can say about this tablet for now is that it will boast a robust build, reinforced structure, and longlasting battery life—ensuring uninterrupted productivity and entertainment throughout the day. Paired with an immersive display and powerful performance, users can expect a seamless experience whether they’re attending online classes, streaming content, or multitasking on the go,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Designed with both resilience and style in mind, HONOR’s latest tablet combines a sleek form factor with enhanced durability features, making it the perfect companion for students, young professionals, and families alike. Not compromising performance, the new HONOR tablet is also expected to have outstanding specs for its price point.

To learn more about this exciting news, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/ honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.

driven not just by network expansion, but by their ability to innovate around fiber, mobile data, and customer-centric digital services. The brand strength and brand value gains made by Globe signal a sector that is shifting from infrastructure investment to value creation, strengthening the Philippines’ position as an emerging leader in Southeast Asia’s digital economy,” Brand Finance Managing Director for Asia Pacific Alex Haigh said. Service Beyond Borders Globe is currently putting its worldclass infrastructure to work by providing proactive support for Filipinos in the Middle East. Utilizing its extensive international roaming partnerships, strengthened by its global brand equity, Globe has activated automated relief for customers in high-tension areas to ensure they remain connected to their loved ones and government hotlines. Eligible customers in affected regions are receiving complimentary data, call, and text increments. This initiative ensures that communication remains open during regional emergencies, reflecting Globe’s core purpose of being a dependable partner for the Filipino people.

“Our standing among the world’s strongest brands is a testament to the trust our customers place in us every day,” said Carl Cruz, President and CEO of Globe. “Whether we are supporting a family through a crisis abroad or providing internet access to a remote village at home, we are focused on ensuring that our network is a service Filipinos can always rely on.”

Stephen Cheng gets hands-on with the much-hyped HONOR Robot Phone at Mobile World Congress.

As if smartphones are not enough for drop tests—HONOR teases new durable tablet

89% of Filipino parents hopeful of AI, keen to close knowledge gap

ANEW survey results from Google and YouGov reveal a fascinating shift in how Filipino families are viewing and appreciating AI.

While the technology can feel complex, parents in the Philippines are among the most optimistic about AI’s benefits in the APAC region. According to the data, 89% of Filipino parents—one of the highest scores in the region—believe that online learning tools have made it significantly easier for their children to access a wider range of educational resources.

The survey also highlights a unique dynamic in modern households: the children are often leading the way. 19% of Filipino parents admitted that their children actually know more about AI than they do.

But despite this “knowledge gap,” parents are stepping up to the plate. 71% feel confident guiding their children on how to use AI responsibly and 57% feel hopeful that currently learning AI will fully prepare their kids for an “AI-first” future. This is driving a desire for growth, with 46% of parents stating they want to learn more about AI themselves.

Navigating the Future with Prudence and Play

For Google, AI literacy is more than just learning technical skills; it’s also the art of developing critical thinking and safety.

To help families navigate this new era, here are key tips for staying safe and smart online: Question the Source: While it’s great that answers come quickly and easily

when using AI, unfortunately not everything generated by AI is a fact. Encourage children to dig deeper and ask, “Where is this information coming from?” and cross-reference answers with trusted sources.

Think critically: At Google, we ensure students and teachers are helped to use AI responsibly. Features like Guided Learning in Gemini encourage step-by-step

problem-solving, prioritising critical thinking over quick answers.

Identify Synthetic Content: Use tools like Google’s SynthID, which uses digital watermarking to help identify images or content generated by AI.

Learn as a Family: You don’t need to be an expert to start the conversation. Explore AI tools together with your kids, test their limits, and discuss what makes a “good” vs. “bad” prompt.

DeepSeek new model to test China’s AI aims

TOKYO—For weeks now, the global tech industry has been waiting for a major artificial intelligence launch from DeepSeek, seen as a benchmark for China’s progress in the fast-moving field.

More than a year has passed since the startup put Chinese AI on the map in early 2025 with a low-cost chatbot that performed at a similar level to US rivals.

But despite reports and rumours about its imminent release, DeepSeek’s next-generation “V4” model is nowhere in sight.

Speculation is also swirling over the geopolitical implications of which computer chips were chosen to train and power the new system: world-leading US designs or made-in-China alternatives that the country is racing to develop.

“It’s important to know because at one level, it is a signal of China’s AI self-sufficiency trajectory,” Wei Sun, principal AI analyst at Counterpoint Research, told AFP.

Tech news outlet The Information reported last week that V4 can be run on the latest chips made by China’s Huawei.

IN a historic move, Infinix recently announced YUNA from K-pop girl group ITZY as its first-ever Global Brand Ambassador, bringing her confidence, energy, and bold selfexpression to global audiences.

The partnership reflects Infinix’s “Joy Tech, Beyond Limits” philosophy, reinforcing its commitment to empowering a new generation of users through creativity, individuality, and innovation. Coinciding with the global debut of Infinix’s annual flagship launch of the new NOTE 60 SERIES, the collaboration also signals a strategic step forward as the brand elevates its smartphone experiences for broader international users.

“I am so excited to reach out to my fans in a new way as Infinix’s Global Brand Ambassador. I’ve always believed that life should be filled with joy and the courage to show the world who you truly are. It’s been amazing to see how Infinix shares that same energy. I’m looking forward to this journey and can’t wait to show everyone the special stories we create together!” said YUNA, Global Brand Ambassador for Infinix.

Infinix Celebrates a Milestone with YUNA

As a young global K-pop icon, YUNA has risen to the top through discipline, self-discovery, and fearless

ambition. As the youngest member of ITZY, her vibrant confidence is her signature. Driven by an energetic passion, she inspires fans worldwide with her boundary-breaking spirit and continuous reinvention across music, acting, and beyond. These qualities align perfectly with Infinix’s commitment to flagship performance, refined aesthetics, and relentless innovation.

This partnership marks a strategic evolution for Infinix, elevating its appeal to the premium market. Together, Infinix and YUNA create a unified narrative that transcends hardware, positioning technology as a catalyst for joy and a powerful tool for self-expression. By integrating YUNA’s infectious energy with the NOTE 60 Series, Infinix is redefining its brand identity and empowering users worldwide, driving desirability among tech-savvy youth who demand both flagship-level sophistication and a platform for bold, joyful selfexpression.

“Partnering with YUNA accelerates our mission to deliver a fun, cuttingedge mobile experience to young fans globally,” said Charisma Buan, Marketing Manager of Infinix Philippines. “Guided by the philosophy of Joy Tech, Infinix moves beyond

talking about how advanced a phone is, to telling stories about how technology creates joy—when brands, users, and YUNA come together to illuminate every unique way of shining.”

Expanding into Global Premium Markets

This collaboration is strategically timed, launching alongside Infinix’s entry into the premium market and the global debut of its flagship NOTE 60 Series. This evolution is powered by a world-class ecosystem of industry leaders: Infinix’s first NOTE powered by Snapdragon from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., Italian automotive and design legend Pininfarina for elegant aesthetics, and immersive SOUND BY JBL experience.

Together with YUNA, this partnership signals a transformative new chapter for Infinix— leveraging the NOTE 60 Series to inspire the generation of self-defined youth who prefer to express in their own unique way, and spread their voices to the world.

Such a shift would mark a milestone for China in its bid to beat US restrictions on the export of top-of-the-range AI chips from Californian titan Nvidia to the country.

The report cited five people with direct knowledge of large orders for Huawei chips, made in preparation for the DeepSeek launch by tech giants including Alibaba, ByteDance and Tencent.

AFP contacted DeepSeek, Huawei, Alibaba, ByteDance and Tencent but none were able to comment.

‘Wake-up call’ DeepSeek started life in 2023 as a side project of a hedge fund that had access to a cache of powerful Nvidia processors. It shot to attention in January 2025 with its R1 deep-reasoning chatbot, which sent US tech shares tumbling with President Donald Trump calling it a “wake-up call” for American firms. R1 was based on DeepSeek’s last major AI model, V3, which was released in December 2024. The company’s affordable, customisable AI tools have been widely adopted in China, and are also popular in emerging markets such as Southeast Asia and the Middle East. AFP

Cisco Secure AI Factory with NVIDIA makes AI easier to deploy, secure

SAN JOSE, California—Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) recently announced a major expansion of its Secure AI Factory with NVIDIA, giving customers a framework for deploying AI across their entire infrastructure – from central data center to local sites where data is created and decisions are made.

Enterprises, neoclouds, sovereign clouds, and service providers can now move AI from pilot to full-scale production without stitching together disconnected systems, compressing deployment timelines from months to weeks and embedding security from the start.

“Most organizations understand the potential for AI to transform their businesses, but they’re navigating how to deploy the technology safely and at scale,” said Chuck Robbins, Chair and CEO, Cisco. “In partnership with NVIDIA, we’re solving that challenge with an architecture that sets a new standard for performance –making it simpler to deploy, operate, and secure AI infrastructure.”

“AI factories are transforming every industry, and security must be built into every layer—from silicon to software—to protect data, applica-

tions to support edge inferencing use cases by:

• Transforming the Enterprise Edge: Now supporting NVIDIA RTX PRO™ 4500 Blackwell Server Edition GPUs across the Cisco UCS and Cisco Unified Edge portfolios, Cisco enables enterprises to run mission-critical AI workloads at the edge without the energy cost and footprint of data centerscale hardware.

• Transforming the Service Provider Edge: Today Cisco announces the Cisco AI Grid with NVIDIA reference design that combines the power of Cisco’s Mobility Services Platform with NVIDIA RTX PRO Blackwell Series GPUs. This enables service providers to leverage their existing networks to offer managed services for edge AI applications with carrier-grade reliability and sovereignty.

Driving Performance and Efficiency for Massive-Scale AI Factories Building on the momentum of the recently launched systems powered by Cisco Silicon One G300 for scaleout and P200 for scale-across, Cisco continues to raise the performance

ceiling while making the whole process faster and simpler.

• Next-Generation Performance: Cisco’s latest high-speed switches power the most demanding AI workloads, including a new 102.4Tbps Cisco N9100 powered by NVIDIA Spectrum-6 Ethernet switch silicon. This joins the now generally available 800G N9100 powered by NVIDIA Spectrum-4 Ethernet switch silicon.

• Rapid Deployment: Cisco Nexus Hyperfabric, now a part of Cisco Nexus One, will support Cisco N9000 Series switches, including the N9100 Series powered by NVIDIA Spectrum-X Ethernet silicon. Now organizations can transform a complex, multi-vendor integration puzzle into a simple, full-stack solution to cut deployment

SHOWBIZ

How Piolo Pascual ends up removing his shirt for magazine cover

Very Wang Nickie

ACTOR Piolo Pascual

sounded serious yet playful as he made clear he is not keen on having another child at this stage of his life, adding that he would rather have a wife first before expanding his family.

The 49-year-old star appeared at a BDO Media Day event linked to the unveiling of his Esquire magazine cover for its travel issue. Held at the Summit Media office on April 8, the actor and film producer also spoke about his personal life and the fitness discipline that has kept him in strong shape for recent campaigns and magazine shoots.

On fatherhood, Piolo opened up about being single for some time and even joked about his earlier remarks. He explained that while he has recently felt the natural desire to have someone to talk to and share life with, he remains firm that he is not ready to raise another child on his own.

“But baby-wise, I don’t think I’m ready. My son is just 28. Maybe mauna na siya,” he said in jest. “But when it happens, why not? But for me, I super enjoy my life. I’m not saying it’s fun to be single, but there are pros and cons.”

“But I want a wife first before having another kid,” he went on and reiterated that if another child comes into the picture, it would only be within the framework of a committed relationship, ideally marriage, before taking that Away from family questions, Piolo also addressed the attention surrounding his physique after a recent cover shoot that featured him in a more daring layout than initially planned. He revealed that staying in shape has become a year-round commitment rather than project-based preparation. When asked about his training, he said there was no shortcut to his condition, only consistency. He described daily workouts as routine, even while traveling, and noted that he continues to focus on building difficult muscle groups such as his back.

“Just because one project ends does not mean you stop,” he told Manila Standard . “As an actor, you have to always be ready.”

Piolo also shared a behind-the-scenes detail from the shoot, noting that the topless images were not part of the original concept and only came about after on-set adjustments and additional photo selections. In the end, one of the later shots was chosen for the cover.

“When they showed us the guide, the pegs for the cover shoot, there were no topless shots. This wasn’t part of the layout. Totoo,” he said, pointing to the enlarged magazine cover on display at the venue. He also recalled how a previous campaign influenced the conversation around his fitness routine.

“Because I did a campaign before this for Bench. After the campaign came out, my friends were asking me, ‘Why are you still working out, you know, trying to stay in shape?’ I said, just because it already came out doesn’t mean you can rest already. You never rest,” he said.

Piolo thinks that as an actor and artist, he must always look his best.

LAWYERS for Sean “Diddy”

Combs urged an appeals court Thursday to overturn the US hip-hop mogul’s prison term of more than four years for prostitution-related crimes. Combs, 56, was sentenced in October after a salacious trial that detailed the alleged “freak-offs” he organized: sexual marathons involving hired male escorts and his ex-girlfriend, Casandra Ventura, and another unidentified women.

He was acquitted by a jury of the most serious charges against him— sex trafficking and racketeering— but convicted of two counts of transporting people across state lines for prostitution.

The disgraced artist was not present at the Manhattan courthouse on Thursday as defense lawyer Alexandra Shapiro sought to persuade a three-judge panel that Combs’s sentence of four years and two months was unfairly long for his crimes.

“The evidence the judge was relying on was totally separate and, in fact, was acquitted conduct,” Shapiro said. She said District Judge Arun Subramanian should not have considered evidence that Combs made threats against Ventura and the other woman, as it was

related to the acquitted charges.

Prosecutors disagreed and pointed to an instance where Combs showed Ventura he had videos of her engaging in sex parties hours before another “freak-off” in an apparent bid to ensure her continued participation.

“These incidents are specifically tied to transportation,” prosecutor Christy Slavik told the court.

In a sign of the complex legal arguments, Slavik at one point drew an analogy of pizza to highlight how certain “slices” of evidence were relevant to the ultimate sentencing decision.

The court did not issue an immediate ruling in what one judge, William Nardini, called an “exceptionally difficult case.”

Combs is also appealing his conviction, though that was not discussed in detail on Thursday.

He is being held in the low-security Fort Dix prison in New Jersey and is due for release in spring 2028.

“Physicality-wise, I always want to be prepared for anything,” he said. “So when this shoot came along, I asked, ‘Is there a topless layout?’ There was none. So I was wearing my shirt. Then they said, ‘Can you take your shirt off?’ I was like, ‘Okay,’ I obliged. It’s important that you’re always ready, that you’re always prepared,” he added.

Korean series Perfect Crown, starring IU and Byeon Woo-seok began streaming on Disney+ in the Philippines on Friday night. The romantic comedy centers on Grand Prince I-AN, who becomes caught in a royal succession struggle and faces pressure to marry. He enters a marriage of convenience with Huiju, the heir to a Korean conglomerate.

As the two work together to pursue their personal goals, their arrangement becomes complicated as emotions develop.

IU plays Huiju, the second heir to one of South Korea’s major conglomerates, while Byeon portrays Grand Prince I-AN. The series is directed by Park Joonhwa and written by Yoo Jiwon.

The first episode was released at 10:20 p.m. Friday. New episodes will be released every Friday and Saturday at 10:20 p.m., with the finale scheduled for May 16.

Perfect Crown is among several Korean titles set for release on Disney+, including upcoming seasons of A Shop for Killers and Made in Korea, as well as other projects in development.

HBO Max has released the official teaser for its upcoming original Harry Potter series during the HBO Max UK & Ireland launch event, offering the first look at the eight-episode first season titled Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

The series is set to premiere Christmas 2026 on HBO and will stream exclusively on HBO Max in available markets, including recent launch territories in Asia Pacific, Germany, Italy, and the U.K. and Ireland.

The story follows Harry Potter, who discovers a hidden world of magic after receiving an invitation to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry on his 11th birthday. As he enters a life of friendship and adventure, he is also drawn into a dangerous conflict tied to his past.

The series stars Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. The ensemble cast also includes John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, among others.

It is based on J.K. Rowling’s books and written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner

Mark Mylod serves as

Korean superstars IU (left) and Byeon Wooseok lead new K-drama

Piolo Pascual headlines Esquire Philippines’ magazine cover for its travel issue

Piolo Pascual (right) jokes about not being ready for another child and humorously suggests his son, Inigo, might be ready for parenthood

Wang

Piolo Pascual speaks about his insights on

SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Pokémon drops bold apparel and footwear collection for 30th anniversary

PUMA has teamed up with Pokémon to release a collaborative collection celebrating 30 years of the global franchise, combining sportswear and pop culture through day-to-night inspired designs.

C4 LIFE

N O W & N E X T

The PUMA x Pokémon line features adult and children’s apparel and footwear, drawing from the contrast between Sun Pokémon Espeon and Moonlight Pokémon Umbreon, alongside other fan favorites such as Pikachu and Mimikyu.

The footwear lineup includes redesigned versions of PUMA’s Mostro and Fade Nitro models. The Fade Nitro Umbreon and Fade Nitro Pikachu are priced at P8,800, while the Inverse Mimikyu retails for P8,500. The Mostro Espeon comes in a pink and black colorway. Each pair features themed detailing and custom hangtags.

The collection also introduces the All-Pro NITRO™ 2 Pikachu basketball shoe, priced at P7,900, alongside graphic tees featuring characters such as Squirtle, Shiny Mew and Pikachu, each priced at P2,900.

Apparel includes relaxed graphic tees available in multiple colorways for P2,400, paired with 7-inch TR shorts priced at P3,200. The lineup also features the PUMATECH-X track jacket and relaxed track pants at P5,400 each, as well as oversized jerseys priced at P4,400. Accessories include a 28-liter backpack in black and gray for P4,400. A children’s line mirrors the adult collection, with scaled-down tees, shorts, and jerseys.

The PUMA x Pokémon collection is available in

By Nickie Wang

IN a tropical country like the Philippines, where the sun shapes everyday life, people are constantly exposed to its harmful elements. While its warmth energizes and brightens, prolonged exposure can compromise the skin’s health.

Experts have always emphasized that sunscreen is a key part of a balanced skincare routine, helping protect against premature aging, dark spots, and other sun-related concerns. This focus on protection was the main theme and core message of Watsons’ SPF Redefined: Have a SUNstoppable Summer, a campaign designed to help Filipinos enjoy summer confidently while caring for their skin.

Watsons launched the campaign at The Block Atrium, SM North EDSA on March 27, and invited KOLs, media personalities, brand partners, and customers to experience the first of a year-long series of sun care activations.

I HAVE always believed that the Philippines produces world-class chocolates made from our very own cacao beans. For too long, the global chocolate industry has overlooked Southeast Asia’s rich cacao heritage, but brands like 1919 Chocolate are proving that Filipino beans can stand proudly alongside the world’s best.

In the heart of the Philippine chocolate renaissance, one brand stands out for its award-winning taste and deep roots in family history. 1919 Chocolate is the passion project of husband-and-wife team Karl and Kay Santos, a duo who transformed a personal experiment into an internationally recognized craft chocolate business.

The name 1919 honors the birth year of Kay’s grandparents. Kay began farming in 2014, initially aiming

Guests were greeted by vibrant displays, interactive zones, and playful installations. brought energy to the day, guiding attendees through engaging segments that combined practical SPF tips with summerthemed activities.

The event emphasized that sun protection is an essential part of daily selfcare. Watsons showcased a complete range of products— sprays, sticks, lotions, and Mosbeau Oral Sunblock, which offers protection from within. Hair and scalp care

Summer with a full-scale, fun skin protection experience

options were also featured, showing that SPF routines can fit seamlessly into every lifestyle. Interactive zones included a Skin Analyzer for personalized SPF recommendations, a sun-themed photo booth, and a giant Fun Fact Fan with panels full of tips on sun protection. Shoppers discovered gifts from Uniqlo with every purchase, while brands like Ponds, Nivea, Skintific, Vaseline, and Deoproce hosted games and mini-activities that made learning about sun safety fun and hands-on.

Guests explored Watsons’ extensive sun care offerings, from post-sun cooling gels and body care to wellness supplements and makeup with SPF, demonstrating that protection, wellness, and beauty go hand in hand. The campaign extends beyond Metro Manila with activations in Boracay, Clark, and Cebu, ensuring sun care reaches Filipinos nationwide. It will culminate with National Sunscreen Day at SM Mall of Asia in May, promoting SPF 365, a concept encouraging sun protection every day, every season.

Watsons Club Members enjoy exclusive rewards throughout the summer, including Klook gift vouchers and up to 5x points on participating essentials via the Watsons app. App-only deals and the Click & Collect feature make stocking up on sun care effortless and convenient.

“Beauty, health, and wellness are rooted in care, which includes sunscreen,” said Sharon Decapia, Watsons SAVP for Marketing, PR, and Sustainability. “Our goal is to help everyone develop a lifelong sun care habit, protecting the skin inside and out.”

cacao for export. While working on her grandparents’ farm, she discovered heirloom cacao trees scattered across the property.

Her Lola, still alive at the time, said, “Dinatnan ko na yang mga cacao na yan nung bata pa lang ako,” meaning those trees were already there when she was a child. That placed them at nearly a century old. By 2019, the trees were bearing enough fruit. Kay grew up with fond memories of her Lola letting her “supsup” the cacao before turning it into tablea. When it came time to make their own chocolate, Karl and Kay chose to honor Lolo and Lola (then 100 years old) by naming the brand after their birth year. The biggest challenge? Relevance. Many heritage stories rely on nostalgia alone. For Karl and Kay, honoring

the past means ensuring quality from sourcing to production while crafting products people actually crave today. Kay brought home beans from her family’s century-old cacao farm in Malvar, Batangas. For her, this was more than just an ingredient; it was a legacy. As a third-generation cacao farmer, she is the custodian of heirloom Criollo trees—some nearly 100 years old—originally planted by her grandparents, Emilia and Felipe Tizon. While many her age pursued corporate careers, Kay chose to honor her grandparents by tending to the land. Inspired by the quality of the beans, Karl then immersed himself in the art of chocolate-making. Starting with a tabletop grinder, he began crafting small batches for family and friends. The encouragement

was overwhelming, and later that year, 1919 Chocolate was born— named after the birth year of Kay’s grandparents.

“In our opinion, our Batangas cacao has a distinct deep cocoa profile with slightly fruity (similar to tropical fruits like ripe banana or even caramelized coconut milk, depending on how you interpret it) notes. Our cacao is also intercropped with jackfruit (langka), which our barangay is known for.

It’s familiar but still elevated, which is very much what we want 1919 to

feel like,” Karl Santos shared. There are two common misconceptions about Philippine cacao, and they sit at opposite ends of the spectrum.

One is that it’s too intimidating or overly sophisticated. Brands like 1919 Chocolate counter this by making cacao more approachable, using familiar flavors like ube and dulce de leche that people already love, just executed with more thoughtfulness. The other misconception is that Philippine cacao is somehow inferior to imported chocolates. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Philippine cacao is already world-class, a fact Karl and Kay Santos see and taste every day. For them, it simply comes down to making each bar well and letting the chocolate speak for itself. The couple’s chemistry is the brand’s secret weapon. Kay oversees the farm, ensuring the ancient trees are nurtured using modern post-harvest protocols. Karl, the principal chocolate maker, handles the production magic: the roasting profiles, grinding, and refining. Their commitment to quality paid off quickly. In 2020, their 62 percent Dark Chocolate won Silver at the UK’s prestigious Academy of Chocolate Awards in the “Tree to Bar” category, a feat they repeated in 2021.

Today, 1919 Chocolate is celebrated for its innovative flavors that highlight local tastes, such as Ube Chocolate and Toasted Milk & Strawberry. More than just a business, Karl and Kay Santos are preserving a heritage, proving that world-class chocolate starts from the ground up, with family.

Kay Santos, co-owner

creative force behind 1919 Chocolate, works alongside her husband to craft award-winning flavors rooted in heritage

Karl Santos, founder of 1919 Chocolate,

From single-origin dark chocolate bars to uniquely flavored tablets, 1919 Chocolate’s handcrafted range showcases the richness of Philippine cacao

Ayn Bernos leads everyone through exciting segments that mixed practical SPF advice with summer-themed