Manila Standard - 2026 April 16 - Thursday

By Charles Dantes

Donald Trump’s calls that Greenland should become part of the United States was met with international condemnation Monday as the autonomous Danish territory’s prime minister putting his

down on the

PH airs concern

PBBM vetoes P92.5b unprogrammed funds

PNP resurrecting probe into PCSO official's slay

House to look at VP Sara’s

Trump says US-Iran talks to resume soon

By Rio N. Araja

By Charles Dantes, Thony Rose Lesaca, Ram Superable, Maricel Cruz and Vito Barcelo

‘unexplained wealth’ issue

‘26 budget pork-free, bars politicians from ‘ayuda’ distribution

Panel subpoenas Trillanes, AMLC for April 22 impeach hearing

As

TPRESIDENT Donald Trump has indicated peace talks with Tehran could resume this week, as the United States turned the screws Wednesday with a naval blockade it said had cut off maritime trade with Iran.

PRESIDENT

Ferdinand Marcos

Trump’s hint came as Israel and Lebanon agreed to open direct negotiations after a rare face-to-face meeting in Washington, with Israel’s war with Hezbollah ongoing despite the ceasefire with Tehran.

HE Philippine National Police (PNP) is reopening its investigation into the 2020 murder of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga.

Washington’s military intervention in Venezuela has reignited fears for Greenland, which Trump has repeatedly said he wants to annex, given its While aboard Air Force One enroute to Washington, Trump reiterated his proposal. “We need Greenland from the standpoint of national security, and Denmark is not going to be able to do it,” he said in response to a reporter’s question.

By Maricel V. Cruz

ties that may be hit hard by typhoon ‘Julian’ which PAGASA says could turn into a supertyphoon.

AStocks rose and crude dropped on hopes for a deal to get oil flowing again through the Strait of Hormuz—choked by Iranian forces since the US-Israeli offensive began in late February, and now the focus of a US blockade.

Jr. signed into law this year’s P6.793 trillion national budget, vetoing almost P92.5 billion in unprogrammed funds while putting tighter controls on public spending, including barring politicians from distributing cash and other forms of “ayuda.”

On Sunday, PNP Chief Police

General Rommel Francisco Marbil said he ordered the reopening of the cold case after whistleblower Police Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza told the House Quad Committee that he helped carry out the killing at the behest of ex-PCSO general manager Royina Garma.

But the twin diplomatic push remained fragile, with Lebanese state media reporting fresh Israeli strikes south of Beirut, while Iran-backed Hezbollah—hostile to any negotiations—fired dozens of rockets at Israel.

"With the National Budget 2026, your government's direction is clear, it will be more prudent and more responsible in spending the people's funds," the President on Monday said, adding that unprogrammed appropriations will not be treated as "blank checks."

Trump told the New York Post on Tuesday that a new round of talks with Iran could take place in Pakistan “over the next two days,” after a marathon first negotiating session ended without a breakthrough.

“Let me be clear: the Unprogrammed Appropriations are not blank

Mendoza narrated before congressmen how Garma allegedly facilitated the PCSO official’s roadside assassination on July 30, 2020 by providing the necessary information about his schedule, details about his vehicle and the funding necessary to carry it out.

In a FOX Business interview due to be aired on Wednesday, the US leader declared the war “very close to being over.”

The whistleblower also implicated incumbent National Police Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo in the planning of the murder.

Senior Pakistani sources told AFP that Islamabad was working to bring the sides together for a second round of talks, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif kicked off a four-day diplomatic blitz to

Barayuga was a retired police general and lawyer who supposedly threatened to expose corruption within the PCSO shortly before he was shot dead in Mandaluyong City.

FTER completing its first impeachment

funds, the House Committee attention to Vice President unexplained wealth during its next session on April 22.

By Charles Dantes

Garma, herself an ex-police Lt. Colonel, allegedly gained the top spot at the PCSO because of her in-

By Alena Mae S. Flores and Maricel V. Cruz

THE Department of Energy confirmed on Wednesday the possibility of a fuel price rollback next week, with an industry source projecting a decrease of up to P15 per liter for diesel and P2 per liter for gasoline. Meanwhile, the Marcos administration is still considering suspending excise taxes on diesel and gasoline after scrapping such levies on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene, a Department of Finance official said.

growth rose from the realities we have seen, both globally and domestically," Balisacan said during a Palace briefing yesterday, citing recent assessments from the International Monetary Fund, World Bank and Asian Development Bank.

“We’ve been monitoring. So as of today, actually the price for the two days, the MOPS (Mean of Platts Singapore) have come down a bit,” DOE Undersecretary Alessandro Sales said.

“So even with President Trump’s pronouncement that he’s stationing their warships at the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, apparently the market is not pricing that in,” he added.

By Darwin Amojelar TRANSPORTATION

The source said that based on the first two days of MOPS and foreign exchange averages, diesel is estimated to drop by P13 to P15 per liter and gasoline by P1 to P2 per liter.

Bautista denied an online news report claiming that Malacañang was angry with the increase in airport fees without the approval of the Cabinet members. cious and unfounded,” Bautista said in a Viber message, referring to the website that published the said story.

“Bilyonaryo is inconsistent,” he added.

Sales noted that if this market reaction continues, the country may see more stable prices or a formal rollback, though he cautioned that the data only accounts for two days of the week.

By Pot Chavez and Rex Espiritu

THE businessman Tony Yang sought to disparage lawmakers’ conclusions about his client’s supposedly sketchy past and his alleged ties with Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs) and even organized crime.

questioned the House Quad Committee’s impartiality and its ability to pin Chinese national Yang down for ay wrongdoing in a real criminal court.

PBBM leads promotions of teachers

Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry

of illegal drugs and illegal activities associated with POGOs,” Suarez said in a mixture of Filipino and English.

By Charles Dantes

The solons explained how the matrix details Yang’s connections to other individuals involved in illicit activities, including the operations of illegal POGOs.

Among the companies implicated are Brickhartz Technology Inc. and Xionwei Technology Co. Ltd., which are being linked to alleged kidnapping.

Yang’s first appearance and his subsequent activities at the Quad Comm hearing.

The two firms supposedly have connections with the Baofu Compound in Bamban, Tarlac, which, in turn, can be directly traced to disgraced ex-mayor Alice Guo.

“I am very interested in how they [Quad Comm members] can prove this criminal network in court. In Congress, lawmakers act as both prosecutor and judge,” he said. Yang, who already admitted having a fake Philippine birth certificate, is the brother of Michael Yang, a presidential economic

By Ram Superable

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said she is hopeful that global oil prices will stop climbing.

“Bautista and his long-time protege in Philippine Airlines, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Bobby Lim, are at the center of the storm after it was

“Because of what’s happening there (in the Middle East), it reflects on the

Camp Crame after his arrest and was presented before the court that issued the warrant.

“We saw a pattern, and we tracked it to the top of these corporations... we stripped it of its layers , to get to the top and through it all, we have discovered and identified at least two main actors or players in the issue

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday said the arrest of the retired officer was carried out through lawful means, reflecting the

Lack of votes forces suspension of Blue Ribbon hearing

pause on the probe will be lifted when he reports and sponsors a partial committee report in Senate plenary.

During Friday’s Quad Comm hearing, lawmakers cited Tony Yang in contempt for “lying” to about his businesses and business partners.

Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal

FURTHER hearings of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on the anomalous flood control projects are suspended, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson announced on Wednesday. Lacson explained that the temporary

Philippine Navy debunked on Sunday the recent announce ment by China that it conducted military exercises off Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarbor ough Shoal, in the West Philip China reportedly made the an nouncement coinciding with the fourth Multilateral Maritime Co operative Activity between the Philippines, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States within Manila’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the re gional waters over the weekend. Philippine Navy Spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vin -

DIALOGUE. Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto meets with Chinese Ambassador Jinq Quan to discuss overall PhilippineChina relations. During the courtesy call, the Ambassador noted the resumption of dialogues aimed at enhancing bilateral relations. Story on A2 Office of the Executive Secretary

“Our Senate rules are clear as they are basic. Thus, all inquiries in aid of legislation should end up in recommended legislative actions via a committee report,” he said.

would be ‘pointless’ without reaching a logical conclusion through a committee report that senators can debate, amend and adopt in accordance with Senate rules.

cent Trinidad told reporters that Manila troops did not monitor any such activity, adding that Bei

Continuing the inquiry, he added,

“I do not expect any member of the minority to sign. They can offer all kinds of reasons all they want, wise or Next page

in standby fund is also available for utilization by the DSWD, including P123 million which can be allotted as Quick Response Fund (QRF) in the central office of the DSWD.

Committee chairperson Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro said the next focus will be on Duterte’s Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) furnished by the Ombudsman as well as corporate and tax records from the Securities and Exchange Commission and Ahead of next Wednesday’s hearing, the House committee granted motions to subpoena the Anti-Money Launder Next page

In Batanes, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) advised residents to secure their roofs and install window shutters as Typhoon Julian is expected to make landfall

VP

Sara hits House impeach ‘mini-trial’

By Katrina Manubay

PH lobbies UN for Security Council seat government has readied P1.48 billion worth of aid for communi

THE Philippine government on Sunday publicly called for the United Nations (UN) to give it a seat on the UN Security Council, highlighting the country’s strong record and dedication to upholding the rule of law.

‘Most Pinoys back impeachment trial’ NEWS / A3

Department of Foreign Affairs

(DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo in a speech delivered at the UN General Assembly in New York said the Philippines continues to emphasize the “importance of upholding the rule of law and the integrity of the multilateral system in the face of today’s global challenges.”

VICE President Sara Duterte on Wednesday reiterated her criticism of the “mini-trial” at the House of Representatives. This after self-confessed bagman Ramil Madriaga disclosed on Tuesday how he disbursed P125 million in OVP confidential funds in less than 24 hours in 2022, and not in 11 days as previously reported. Next page

Quoted by reports, Manalo also said: “The Philippines has consistently pursued peace, the sovereign equality of states, the rights and dignity of all persons.” He added that the country is also recognized as the “first Asian Re-

However, Martinez declined to identify the specific

While no counsel appeared for the former lawmaker, Martinez clarified that the proceedings would not be suspended.

‘‘We are working with a timeline here. Any respondent, whether they appear or not, we will proceed in accordance with the timeline under the rules,’’ he said.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday said Washington would continue to enforce an existing “oil quarantine” against Venezuela.

A WEB OF CRIME? House leaders Aurelio Gonzales and David Suarez presented this matrix during the last QUAD Comm hearing which shows the operations of a criminal syndicate allegedly led by fugitive Michael Yang, then economic adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte, that controlled the illegal activities of the POGOs and was involved in the drug trade and extrajudicial killings.

VICTORIOUS. Rising stars Alex Eala and American Iva Jovic congratulate each other after beating tennis veterans Venus Williams and Elina

PROMOTIONS. President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. waves to the crowd gathered in a Tacloban gymnasium yesterday where he attended the oathtaking of more than 2,000 newly-promoted teachers. PCO

Incoming NSA Eduardo Oban Jr.

DAILY STRUGGLE. Commuters struggle to nd rides during rush hour along Philcoa in Quezon City on the rst day of the 3-day transport strike. The Metro Manila Development Authority however said it did not deploy ‘libreng sakay’ vehicles because no commuters were stranded by the protest action. Edd Castro

PBBM calls for Asian energy security

By Charles Dantes

RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos

PJr. on Wednesday urged Asian leaders to accelerate regional energy security measures, warning that recent global supply disruptions have exposed deep vulnerabilities across interconnected fuel supply chains.

In an intervention at the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Plus Online Summit on April 15, President Marcos said the Philippines has been severely affected by volatility in global oil markets following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz on Feb. 28. “When global supply chains are disrupted, the effects arrive at our shores very swiftly and are felt severely,” President Marcos said, noting sharp increases in diesel and liquefied petroleum gas

ident’s SALN.

ing Council (AMLC) and former senator Antonio Trillanes to testify on allegedly anomalous or suspicious bank transactions of the Vice President from 2006 to 2025.

Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila de Lima said Trillanes’ testimony before the 19th Congress House Quad Comm on the bank accounts of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and his immediate family, including Sara Duterte, would be relevant to establishing probable cause.

Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon said the committee limited its subpoena to flagged bank transactions of Duterte and her husband, Manases Carpio, because the unexplained wealth allegation is anchored on the Vice Pres-

bong” Marcos Jr., saying the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) already has the authority to handle threats against the head of state.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the Palace is still verifying allegations raised during a House impeachment hearing by Ramil Madriaga, a self-confessed aide of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Madriaga alleged that former President Rodrigo Duterte and retired military officials discussed plans to remove Mr. Marcos from office, including an alleged assassination plot.

“Sa ngayon po ay aalamin natin ang buong katotohanan rito … wala po tayong personal na kaalaman (As of now, we are trying to find out the full truth here… we have no personal knowledge [of any plot against the President]),”

price. Now they declared a ceasefire, the market reacted and then the price went down,” Garin said. She added that the international market has calmed, but expressed concern that any drastic or violent incidents involving shipping vessels could cause prices to react again.

Garin said the country’s fuel inventory remains sufficient at 51.3 days. This includes gasoline at 54 days, diesel at 49 days, kerosene at 104 days, jet fuel at 68 days, fuel oil at 46 days, and liquefied petroleum gas at 36 days.

“We are considering cooperation with various Asian countries to secure supplies of petroleum products and strengthen supply chains,” chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara told a press conference Wednesday.

The surge in oil prices has raised concerns in some Southeast Asian countries over their ability to pay for imports.

Any disruption in procurement could seriously affect Japan’s medical sector and a wide range of industries, according to the sources.

Tokyo aims to address the risks through financial support, including loans via the government-backed Japan Bank for International Cooperation, to help ensure stable energy supplies and mitigate the broader economic impact.

Manila, through state-run Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC), has ordered 22,000 metric tons (MT), or 22 million kilos, of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to boost the country’s

prices in the weeks after the disruption.

He said the Philippines, which posted 4.4% economic growth in 2025, is now facing imported inflation that is straining the transport, logistics, food supply, and manufacturing sectors.

The President cited that his government has declared a State of National Energy Emergency and activated the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT), a whole-of-government response that includes fuel optimization measures, anti-hoarding enforcement, and targeted relief programs.

“The energy disruptions of 2026 are testing Asia’s resilience,” he said.

“However, they are also creating an opportunity for us to build the regional energy security architecture that our region has long needed,” the President added.

He said these steps are necessary but not sufficient, stressing that “no single country in Asia can insulate itself from supply chain shocks of this scale by acting alone.”

Mr. Marcos outlined several longer-term measures, including diversifying oil import sources away

He said extending the subpoena to other members of Duterte’s family would not be necessary.

The impeachment complaints have accused Duterte of having deposited at least P111 million across various banks in Davao City and Metro Manila from 2006 to 2015. They said the amount was grossly disproportionate to Duterte’s salary as former vice mayor and mayor of Davao City.

They also alleged that Duterte’s net worth ballooned from P13.8 million in 2007 to P44.8 million in 2017, despite having an estimated annual salary of only around P2 million.

Earlier on Tuesday, an official of the Philippine Statistics Authority told the House committee that hundreds of names listed in acknowledgment receipts tied to the confidential funds issue yielded negative results in the

Castro said.

The Palace also dismissed claims that Mr. Marcos had entered into a political agreement with the Dutertes to step down by 2025. Castro said the President was “surprised” by the allegation.

“Hindi po ‘yan mangangampanya para lang po ibigay ang posisyon kahit kanino (The President would not campaign for election just to give his position to whoever),” she said.

Castro made the remarks after Senator Imee Marcos, the President’s sister, urged him to address what she described as false allegations, and suggested that Madriaga may be acting under political influence.

Without directly responding to the senator, Castro said the truth can only be established by hearing all sides.

“Ano po ba ang kaalaman ni Senator Imee Marcos sa katotohanan? Hindi po ba dapat lumabas talaga ang katoto-

While LPG levels are currently low, the Energy chief said the Philippine National Oil Co. has incoming orders. Sales confirmed that the state-run firm has contracted the first LPG volume for delivery next month, signing for 22,000 metric tons expected to arrive in the second or third week of May. He said PNOC continues to look for other sources to maintain inventory levels.

Meanwhile, Garin said the DOE, the PNOC, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and the Land Bank of the Philippines have launched a three-month fuel discount for jeepneys, beginning in Metro Manila. The program offers a P10-discount

buffer stock amid the ongoing Middle East fuel crisis.

At a virtual press briefing on Wednesday, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said PNOC placed the order this week as the country’s LPG inventory remains relatively low.

Department of Energy (DOE) data showed the country’s LPG supply is good for 36 days, compared with 49 days for diesel, 54 days for gasoline, and 105 days for kerosene.

“In terms of LPG, we contracted the first volume through PNOC… they just ordered 22,000 metric tons of LPG,”

DOE Undersecretary Alessandro Sales said during the briefing.

“The delivery window for this cargo is sometime in the second to third week of May, so this will boost our LPG buffer stock,” he added.

Earlier, the government, through PNOC-Exploration Corp., ordered 1.042 million barrels of diesel to augment the country’s fuel reserves amid the crisis stemming from the conflict in the Middle East.

from the Middle East, increasing minimum petroleum stockholding requirements, and developing a domestic strategic petroleum reserve. He also cited efforts to expand transport electrification, energy efficiency programs, and biofuels blending to reduce dependence on imported fuel.

The President said regional coordination is essential, pointing to the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement as a key framework for emergency cooperation. He backed its full operationalization, including its emergency response mechanism that allows member states to supply up to 10% of a distressed country’s normal fuel requirement on a voluntary and commercial basis.

President Marcos proposed three initiatives: activating and testing the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement emergency response mechanism through a regional simulation exercise, advancing a study on joint oil stockpiling led by the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia, and establishing mutual recognition protocols for emergency fuel allocation to streamline cross-border assistance during crises.

agency’s civil registry records, putting renewed focus on the authenticity of the documents used to support the liquidation of public money.

Marizza Grande, Assistant National Statistician, said based on its December 8, 2024 certification, out of 677 names submitted for verification, 405 had no record of birth or certificate of live birth, 507 had no record of death or certificate of death, 443 had no record of marriage or certificate of marriage, and 398 unique persons had no record of birth, marriage, and death in PSA records.

As for its December 11, 2024, Grande said out of 1,922 names submitted, some 1,322 had no record of birth or certificate of live birth, 1,593 had no record of death or certificate of death, 1,456 had no record of marriage or certificate of marriage, and 1,287 unique persons had no record of birth, marriage, or death according to PSA records.

hanan at madinig natin kung anong dapat sabihin ng sinumang witness?” Castro said.

(What does Senator Imee Marcos know about the truth? Shouldn’t the truth really come out, and shouldn’t we hear what any witness has to say?)

She said even Mr. Marcos has no direct knowledge of the alleged discussions, and that no special directive from the President is necessary because the NBI is already mandated to investigate such claims.

The agency is duty-bound to investigate death threats against any person, particularly the President, the spokesperson said.

Castro said the allegations fit into what the Palace sees as a pattern of threats, citing previous remarks associated with the Vice President and her brother, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte.

Despite the claims, Castro said President Marcos remains committed to completing his term.

per liter. If the rollout is successful in initial problem areas this week, the DOE plans to expand the P10 reduction nationwide. Jeepneys are limited to 150 liters to avail of the discount.

Garin explained that the system is designed for ease of use, as drivers only need to bring their vehicles to participating stations. Gas stations will verify license plate numbers against LTFRB registration records for public utility jeepneys, eliminating the need for drivers to present identification.

The PNOC will fund the activity with assistance from the LTFRB, while Land Bank will settle accounts with the gas stations. Garin noted that with a projected P20-rollback on diesel and the addi-

are reversing decades of stagnation that discouraged educators from staying in the profession.

“For many, many years, our public school teachers have faced many barriers to career growth,” President Marcos said, citing cases where educators remained at the Teacher I level for decades due to limited positions and unclear advancement pathways.

The President said the Expanded Career Progression system, introduced through Executive Order No. 174 in 2022 and institutionalized by law in 2025, creates parallel career tracks in classroom teaching and school administration, allowing educators to advance without leaving instructional roles.

The reform also expanded plantilla positions, adding higher ranks such as Teacher IV to VII, Master Teacher V to VI, and School Principal V.

Recto lauds resumption of PH-China talks

By Charles Dantes nd Katrina Manubay

EXECUTIVE Secretary Ralph Recto met with Chinese Ambassador Jinq Quan to discuss the state of Philippine-China relations, with both sides noting the resumption of dialogues aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.

During the courtesy call held on Tuesday, April 14, the Chinese envoy expressed optimism that increased high-level exchanges and visits this year would help send positive signals about improving relations between the two countries.

Discussions covered a range of cooperation areas, including tourism, people-to-people exchanges, and the expansion of direct flights between Philippine and Chinese cities.

Both sides also tackled efforts to combat transnational crimes, broader economic engagement, and the current energy situation.

Duterte linked what she described as the administration’s failure to extend oil crisis relief to the alleged use of the public funds for political goals.

“The failure of the administration to provide relief in this price crisis is not due to a lack of resources, but because public funds are being used for political maneuvering to avoid accountability for the most corrupt budget in our country’s history,” Duterte said.

“Mga kababayan, this mini-trial in the Committee on Justice is true to form for some of its members: abuse and corruption appear to be the only things they are capable of.”

“Let us remember that the first impeachment case itself was marred by allegations of bribery involving members of the House, and this second impeachment is no better,” the Vice President added.

Meanwhile, Duterte defended her academic record, rejecting claims raised by Madriaga during the House Committee on Justice proceedings.

In a statement, Duterte asserted she completed law school and passed the Bar in 2005 on her first attempt without special accommodation.

“I completed my studies on my own terms. I placed a higher premium on living a well-rounded life rather than pursuing academic excellence,” she said.

“I never asked any professor for special accommodation for my grades because the bare minimum was easy enough to meet. I was never the subject of any complaint for rudeness or violence against other students at SSC-R College of Law,” the vice president added. VP... From

tional P10-discount, jeepney drivers could see a total reduction of P30 per liter from the pump price.

However, DOF Undersecretary Karlo Fermin Adriano claimed that a diesel and gasoline excise tax removal would benefit mostly the richest of Filipinos, a statement that did not sit well with members of the House LEAD Committee led by Marikina Rep. Miro Quimbo.

Asked about the LPG and kerosene excise suspension, Adriano said they are still awaiting the formal issuance of an executive order (EO) by President Marcos.

“We are ready with the implementing rules and regulations, once the EO is out, we can release the IRRs within the day,” he said.

Since August 2025, more than 65,000 teachers and school heads nationwide have been promoted, including 2,121 in Eastern Visayas who formally took their oath on Wednesday.

Mr. Marcos said the accelerated promotions are intended to curb attrition by providing clearer career mobility and better compensation, addressing a long-standing issue where teachers shifted to administrative posts or left the profession entirely for higher-paying opportunities.

“In some cases, you even had to step away from the thing that you love the most—teaching,” he said. He reiterated a key policy target of his administration: No teacher will retire as Teacher I.

Beyond promotions, Mr. Marcos cited complementary interventions aimed at strengthening the education workforce, including the hiring of additional teachers and the creation of non-teaching positions to reduce administrative burdens in schools.

The meeting comes as Manila and Beijing seek to stabilize ties while exploring opportunities for cooperation across multiple sectors.

Recto and the ambassador also briefly discussed upcoming multilateral roles, including the Philippines’ chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China’s hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in 2026.

Both sides expressed hope for mutual support in these engagements.

In a social media post, the Chinese Embassy said the meeting saw Manila and Beijing share thoughts on a wide range of issues including the South China, law enforcement cooperation, economic and trade, as well as people-to-people exchanges.

Joining Recto were Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Maria Luwalhati Dorotan Tiuseco, Undersecretary Facundo Palafox IV, and Undersecretary Erwin Sta. Ana from the Office of the Executive Secretary.

Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey. In the meantime, Washington has been pressing hard for an end to the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, fearing it could jeopardize its two-week ceasefire with Iran and a broader settlement of the conflict.

Lebanon was drawn into the war when Hezbollah attacked Israel in support of Iran, triggering an Israeli ground invasion and deadly campaign of strikes.

The countries’ ambassadors met in Washington on Tuesday in their first direct, high-level talks since 1993, mediated by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Israel’s envoy Yechiel Leiter hailed “a wonderful exchange” between parties “united in liberating Lebanon” from Hezbollah—although his Lebanese counterpart Nada Hamadeh Moawad was less effusive, calling the talks “constructive” but saying she had pressed for a ceasefire.

The State Department said “all sides agreed to launch direct negotiations at a mutually agreed time and venue.” Israel is occupying parts of southern Lebanon and has resisted any pause in fighting that leaves Hezbollah intact, arguing that the group remains the central obstacle to peace. AFP

Pressure on Tehran

While diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran have been stop-start, Washington has sought to turn up the pressure on Tehran by blockading its ports.

US Central Command said on social media overnight that its blockade had been “fully implemented” and that American forces “have completely halted economic trade going into and out of Iran by sea.”

The picture based on maritime tracking data Tuesday was less clear-cut—indicating that several ships sailing from Iranian ports had crossed the Hormuz Strait despite the blockade. AFP

Lack...

From A1 otherwise, not to fulfill their duties as members. It’s on them, not on the chairman,” said Lacson. Currently, the partial report still requires at least five signatures before it can be reported out to the plenary. “If we call hearing after hearing without reaching the logical conclusion of having a committee report... our efforts will end up open-ended,” Lacson said.

NEWS IN BRIEF

SC designates New Era University as Shari’ah HQ

THE New Era University will serve as the national headquarters for the 2026 Shari’ah Special Bar Examinations (SSBE), the Supreme Court (SC) announced Wednesday.

A contract signing ceremony was held Monday, led by Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo and SC Associate Justice Henri Jean Paul Inting, chairperson of the 2026 SSBE.

“The SSBE is more than just an academic undertaking. It is a manifestation of the Court’s constitutional duty to guarantee access to justice for everyone. It recognizes the legal traditions and rich cultural heritage of our Muslim brothers and sisters,” Inting said.

“Our justice system is more effective when it is inclusive and provides opportunity for all qualified individuals to serve,” he added. Pot Chavez

Philippines underscores UNCLOS, arbitral ruling

THE Philippines emphasized the significance of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling as key pillars of its maritime policy during the 9th Indian Ocean Conference in Mauritius on April 11.

In a statement released Wednesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs said Deputy Assistant Secretary and spokesperson for maritime affairs Rogelio Villanueva highlighted the interconnectedness of the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea.

He underscored the shared responsibility of countries in both regions to uphold freedom of navigation and adherence to international law.

“The Indian Ocean and the South China Sea are linked not only by trade routes, but by shared challenges and shared stakes. The choices we make—individually and collectively—will determine whether these waters remain zones of cooperation or become arenas of contestation,” Villanueva said. Katrina Manubay

DSWD sets more aid for PUJ, trike drivers

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has set an additional payout schedule for qualified tricycle and public utility jeepney drivers in Metro Manila who were unable to receive their P5,000 cash relief assistance during the original distribution dates.

Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, DSWD spokesperson, said the additional payout on April 17 will cover drivers who encountered errors in their names or birthdates, or those who were unable to attend the original payout schedule on April 14 and 15.

“For tricycle and jeepney drivers who had errors in their names or birthdates, or were unable to attend the original payout schedule, the DSWD has set a new schedule to ensure that you receive your financial assistance. The new schedule is on Friday, April 17,” Dumlao said. Maricel V. Cruz

Palace defends BBM jogging post

By Charles Dantes

MALACAÑANG on Wednesday defended President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s public jogging appearance, saying it was intended to show transparency about his health condition and counter what it described as false narratives circulating online.

Presidential Communications Office

Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President’s decision to be seen jogging was meant to give the public a direct view of his physical condition and dismiss speculation regarding his health. “Running is not bad. It is better to run

a few meters than to run into the hands of the law,” she said.

She cited earlier remarks from former officials, including then-Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella and former spokesperson Harry Roque, who had previously downplayed the

need to release detailed medical information about former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Castro pointed to earlier Supreme Court rulings, including one involving Duterte, where allegations of serious illness were ruled unsubstantiated and based on conjecture.

Malacañang also rejected a petition filed by the United People’s Initiative asking the Supreme Court to compel President Marcos to undergo a hair follicle drug test, saying the case lacks factual and legal basis.

Castro questioned the premise of the petition, saying it was driven by unverified claims.

Most Filipinos back VP Sara impeachment trial, says survey

By Katrina Manubay

A LARGE majority (87%) of Filipino adults are aware of the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte, with 69% saying she should face a trial to address the allegations, according to a survey by OCTA Research.

In the latest Tugon ng Masa survey, results showed that only 12% said they were not aware of the ongoing impeach-

ment case against Duterte, while around 1% remained undecided.

Across major areas, awareness was most pronounced in Mindanao (91%) and the Visayas (88%), followed closely by the National Capital Region (87%), while Balance Luzon registered the lowest at 78%.

By socioeconomic class, awareness was highest among Class ABC respondents (94%), followed by Class D (88%),

and lowest among Class E (72%). Class E also recorded the highest proportion of respondents who were not aware, at 26%.

OCTA said the findings indicate widespread public knowledge and support for Duterte’s impeachment, viewing it as a legitimate process for holding high-ranking officials accountable. The results also revealed that 69% of Filipino adults believe Duterte should

face an impeachment trial to address the allegations against her, while 28% disagreed and 3% were undecided. Support for an impeachment trial varied across major areas. It was highest in the Visayas (83%) and the National Capital Region (81%), followed by Balance Luzon (69%). Mindanao recorded the lowest level of support at 61% and the highest level of opposition at 38%.

“Who created the issue in the first place? Wasn’t it them?” she said. “They are the ones creating baseless issues,” she added.

She said jurisprudence has previously rejected compelled disclosure of a president’s medical records absent substantiated allegations of serious illness.

Responding to arguments that the petition was grounded on the public’s right to information, Castro said the administration remains transparent through the President’s public engagements and appearances. “Are we not transparent? You have seen the President working, reporting face to face,” she said.

‘Middle-class at risk of poverty amid oil crisis’

By Maricel V. Cruz

MILLIONS of Filipinos belonging to the middle class are in danger of becoming poor due to rising fuel prices resulting from the conflict in the Middle East, Marikina Rep. Romero Quimbo said Wednesday.

During the third meeting of the LEAD Committee, which he chairs, Quimbo said all Filipinos are affected by rising prices, including those of food. In these hard times, he said the government should not forget those belonging to the middle class, who are usually not covered by state-sponsored financial assistance.

He said while there is sufficient fuel supply, the problem is affordability.

“We have seen that while fuel supply is adequate at present, the real problem is affordability. Oil prices are rising, food prices are increasing, and the purchasing power of our citizens is gradually declining. In the midst of this, there is one sector we cannot forget — the middle class,” he added.

“This is the sector that is often not covered by government aid even though they are also struggling with rising prices. They are one major crisis away from falling below the poverty line,” Quimbo stressed.

Oban named new PH security adviser

By Charles Dantes and Rex Espiritu

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed former Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Eduardo Oban Jr. as national security adviser, signaling continuity in defense and counterterrorism policy as the administration navigates shifting regional threats. Oban succeeds Eduardo Año after President Marcos accepted his resignation. Año officially retires from public service after decades in the military and government.

Malacañang credited Año with helping reinforce the country’s national security architecture, particularly in counterterrorism and internal security operations, while improving coordination across the defense and law enforcement sectors.

“We thank Secretary Año for his dedicated and distinguished service to the Filipino people,” Pres-

idential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said in a press briefing.

“As national security adviser, he played a key role in strengthening our national security framework, advancing our counterterrorism and internal security efforts, and ensuring close coordination across the security sector during a period of evolving regional and global challenges,” she added. Oban previously served as Armed Forces chief of staff, deputy chief of staff for plans, and head of the Visiting Forces Agreement Commission, roles that involved operational command, long-term defense planning, and alliance management. Castro said Mr. Marcos expects Oban to sustain ongoing security initiatives and ensure policy continuity, as the government seeks to maintain domestic stability and respond to external challenges in the region.

GREEN BLANKET. Water spinach turns World Lakeshore in Lower Bicutan, Taguig City green. Revoli Cortez

THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2026

Space tech eyed to enhance agri dev’t

IN BRIEF

Former rebels hold reintegration confab

FORMER communist rebels from Aurora and Nueva Ecija provinces convened at Sabang, Baler, Aurora for a two-day summit aimed at strengthening reintegration programs and promoting long-term peace and stability.

Dubbed the Former Rebel Summit, the activity, initiated by the Army’s 91st Infantry Battalion, marked a milestone in bringing together participants from the two provinces under a unified platform focused on rebuilding lives and fostering community resilience.

With the theme “Strengthening Reintegration and Resilience,” the summit gathered together former rebels, government agencies, and various stakeholders to align reintegration initiatives and enhance cooperation.

The program emphasized livelihood opportunities, access to social services, and community-based support systems to help participants transition into productive members of society. Rex Espiritu

CMMA set to roll out quest for ‘26 winners

THE search for the second edition Cebu Metropolitan--Catholic Mass Media Awardees (CMMA), will be conducted starting June 1 up to May 31, and ending with the awarding ceremonies on Oct. 4, 2026.

The quest is a biennial initiative of the CMMA to honor exemplary works of media practitioners and organizations within the ecclesiastical province of Cebu.

The province encompasses the Archdiocese of Cebu and its suffragan dioceses including Dumaguete, Maasin, Tagbilaran, and Talibon. To nominate, visit thearchdioceseofcebu.com/cmcmma. Radio and television networks are invited to submit their respective entries. Minerva Newman

Air travelers reminded on prohibited materials

AIR travelers are reminded to declare any firearms or similar devices to the Philippine National - Police Aviation Security Group (PNP-Avsegroup) before going to the security screening process at the airport. The friendly reminder from the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) emphasizes the critical importance of adhering to established safety and security protocols within the airport to avoid unnecessary inconveniences.

An OTS officer intercepted recently an undeclared airsoft gun found in the checked-in baggage of a passenger bound to Iloilo aboard Philippine Airlines Flight PR 2151 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. With the passenger’s consent, a manual

CA denies Teves’ plea assailing court ruling

By Pot Chavez

THE Court of Appeals (CA) has denied a petition of expelled Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves, Jr. in relation to a search warrant issued against him in 2023.

In a 32-page decision, the CA Third Division denied Teves’ petition for certiorari, noting there was no grave abuse of discretion having been committed by the lower court.

It ruled that Teves failed to prove that the respondent judge did not meet the

standards and committed gross misapprehension of facts.

Further, the appellate court held that the implementation of the subject search warrants did not violate the standards.

“The petitioner, however, failed to adduce evidence that the officers who enforced the search warrant were aware in advance that the cabinets inside the petitioner’s residence contained the subsequently seized firearms, ammunitions, and explosives. Neither was there proof that the authorities anticipated

Rookie files rape cases against training officer

By Dexter A. See

A POLICEMAN serving as a training officer is facing criminal charges for alleged sexual abuse of a 23-yearold trainee from La Union province earlier this year.

The victim told police investigators she was raped twice inside the Cordillera Administrative Region Training Center (CARTC). She claimed she was initially assaulted on Jan. 20, then again on Feb. 8 by the same suspect.

The suspect has been placed under restrictive custody and was subsequently reassigned to the PNP training headquarters in Canlubang, Laguna pending completion of the inquiry and filing of appropriate criminal complaints at the Baguio City prosecutor’s office.

The victim was able to execute a sworn affidavit relative to her allegations to support the filing of the appropriate charges that will be filed against the police officer once the investigation had have been completed.

CARTC chief Lt. Col. Maila Alog stressed that they strictly adhere to the zero-tolerance policy against any form of misconduct, and that they continue to uphold the best interest of the trainees who will be molded into responsible police officers

the discovery of other contraband upon the opening of the cabinets or that they requested that the cabinets be opened because they knew that these contained other firearms, ammunitions, and explosives,” the decision reads.

“The opening of the cabinets was merely a consequence of the implementation of the search,” it added.

As such, the CA ruled that the incidental discovery of other firearms, ammunition, and explosives in the cabinets cannot be considered as a product of an unreasonable search.

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) have forged a partnership to apply space technology in improving irrigation systems and water resource management across the country.

PhilSA acting director general Gay Jane Perez and NIA administrator Eduardo Eddie Guillen signed the memorandum of understanding last March 24.

Guillen was represented at the event by his deputy, Robert Suguitan.

“The collaboration highlights the growing role of space technology in addressing national priorities, particularly food security, water sustainability, and climate resilience,” the PhilSA said in a press statement. Under the accord, the partners will use satellite data and analytics to support the planning, development, and monitoring of irrigation systems. This enables proactive and real-time management of water resources across the country.

They will work together on research, development, and training of NIA personnel to strengthen their technical capacity.

They will also develop space-enabled tools to support faster, data-driven decision-making in irrigation management. PhilSA’s programs will be tapped to enhance NIA’s capabilities and promote sustainable agriculture.

Following the signing of the agreement, PhilSA and NIA will further advance their collaboration through a Memorandum of Agreement, which will outline specific projects and implementation details of the partnership.

The MOU will be in effect for three years, with an option for extension

By Maricel V. Cruz

SANITARY LANDFILL BRIEFING. Navotas City officials led by Mayor John Rey Tiangco and congressman Toby Tiangco, along with Environment and

Natural Resources Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna, Environment Management Bureau Metro Manila director Janice Regona, Obando Mayor Leandro Valeda, and Bureau of Fire Protection chief Marvin Carbonel are briefed on the safety situation at the old Navotas sanitary landfill. Andrew Rabulan

WHAT POVERTY LOOKS LIKE. Members of the urban poor group KADAMAY, who have been staging a camp-out outside the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to demand release of their financial assistance, defy an order to pull out their protest action, Edd Castro

BOATRIDE. Local tourist are having a field day cruising on a motorboat at the upper Wawa Dam in Rodriguez, Rizal in an attempt to beat the summer heat. Manny Palmero

OPINION

Fungible

LET’S move the discussion for the meantime from the twists and turns of the Middle East conflict.

For as long as the White House is ruled by one who should be in a mental asylum and its Congress is peopled by wimps, the whole world will have to agonizingly suffer the effects of the rule of tantrums.

Meanwhile, let’s tackle another subject closest to our stomachs: rice.

First we sent our officials early last year to Vietnam, and sought assurance of enough supply for our needs. We have always dreamed of self-sufficiency in the staple, but that dream is forlorn. Vietnam graciously assured us of enough supply. But late last year, because our farmers complained that they were not getting the right price for their palay, and NFA can only buy so much, we unilaterally suspended the grant of import permits. Vietnam, was left with inventory they reserved for its “suki”, the Philippines, but now our government won’t allow traders to buy their main crop. So they got other “suki” to help them out.

Local farmers saw a marginal increase in the price at which traders bought their palay, enough to survive but little more.

Then Trump blew up Iran, and Iran closed Hormuz, sending oil prices skyhigh.

What has that got to do with rice?

For one, logistics. When oil goes up, transport costs go up, which means shipping rice from wherever, be it Vietnam, Thailand, India or Pakistan, becomes more expensive. But the bigger problem is fertilizers, which are affected by the bombing of Qatar’s LNG facility, a by-product of which is urea.

As a result, a 50-kilo bag of urea which was 1,500 in the last planting season the produce of which we are harvesting now, has gone up to 2,300 and rising. Farmers will plant in May and June using these uber-expensive fertilizer, and that does not yet factor in potash from Canada or phosphate from Morocco.

So this early, the price of rice has gone up in our wet markets. Aside from higher costs of transport, farmers know they will hardly be able to cope with fertilizer costs by next month.

So what does our always reactive government do?

It “imposes” a cap of 50 pesos per kilo on the price of imported rice, which was presumably bought by traders before our government suspended import permits. Now let me ask our consumers: would they know how to distinguish between imported and local rice?

If a retailer in Blumentritt or Colon, Carbon or Bangkerohan re-bags the imported rice in his normal inventory into the “branded” sacks of local rice, would

consumers who buy not by the sack, but by the kilo even know the difference?

The demand for rice is inelastic, which means whether the price is high or low, people, especially the poor and middle class, will eat just as much.

But there is another characteristic that rice has, and it is physical: rice is a fungible commodity, which means that a consumer can hardly detect whether what they smell or touch is local or imported rice.

Same-same, unless you are from Nueva Ecija where milagrosa has become extinct, or from Mindoro where very little genuine denorado is still planted.

The ‘wa-is’ in the entire supply chain ...will start hoarding, because there is likely to be a shortage after the president delivers his fifth SONA

Now here’s another thing, and it smells of corruption: why are Planters Products Inc., a private corporation sequestered by government and which is managed by the DA, allowed to import 1.7 million sacks of rice, and counting?

Does PPI have warehouses to store the rice? Or is it acting as a front for some well-connected private importer?

There’s Food Terminal Inc. too, which has a small warehouse of perhaps 2,000 square meters, but has been importing rice as well. Again, used by some wellconnected importer?

Oh, and not to forget, didn’t our president suspend ALL rice importation? Yet PPI and FTI are exempt, with PITC soon to follow?

Now here is the kicker to this sordid mess on fungible rice: in a recent congressional hearing, DA through its articulate undersecretary, Asis Perez, openly admitted that because of high fertilizer costs, our harvest in September-October will probably be down by 20 percnt at best, likely even 50 percent.

Usec Perez was being forthright and honest, but he confirms what the whole rice market already knows.

There are so many reasons for rice exporting countries to now increase prices. The law of supply and demand, where demand is inelastic, remember?

The “wa-is” in the entire supply chain, and no one can blame even well-to-do households, will start hoarding, because there is likely to be a shortage after the president delivers his fifth SONA, all the way to the cheer-less because cashless holiday season. Haay, naku!

Preventing death of regional languages

IN the Philippines, a multiethnic and multicultural nation of nearly 118 million people, there appears good reason to preserve regional languages as a mirror of the wealth of the country’s cultural fabric.

This archipelago republic is one of the world’s most linguistically diverse countries, home to more than 180 distinct languages, with 175 being indigenous, according to language scholars. While hundreds of local dialects exist, there are officially recognized eight major regional languages that serve as the primary media of communication for over 90 percent of the population, with 19 languages currently used in the Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE) strategy.

The eight major regional languages are Tagalog (the Constitutionally mandated basis of Filipino but is often the subject of acrimonious debate because Tagalog is often pushed as the national language by some); Cebuano; Ilokano; Hiligaynon (Ilonggo); Bikol; Waray; Kapampangan; and Pangasinense.

Those in the far south of the country include Chavacano, Maranao, Maguindanao, and Tausug. But why do some language scholars

and linguists apologize for and argue for the preservation of regional languages when one language can properly unite a multilingual country?

These languages prevent cultural homogenization induced by globalization and the dominance of major languages like Tagalog or English

Some, particularly those from the Tagalog-speaking/writing provinces say one language – like Filipino, they say, but actually what they have at the back of their minds is Tagalog – can function as a source of unification in the Philippines, acting as a lingua franca to bridge over 180 languages. Their argument is it fosters national identity and facilitates communication,

ESafer cities

ARLY this month, the Department of the Interior and Local Government announced stricter implementation of the ban on alcohol and gambling in public areas under its Safer Cities program.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the program will initially be piloted in Metro Manila before expanding to other major urban centers nationwide.

Acting on the DILG order, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that more than 48,000 violators were apprehended during the first three days of the program in Metro Manila.

Of this total, some 7,389 violators were fined, 403 were charged, while 15,584 were warned and released.

Drinking and smoking in public places were the most common violations with 7,300 apprehensions.

This was followed by individuals outside their homes without shirts, curfew violations involving minors, and videoke or karaoke beyond allowed hours.

According to PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.: “Let’s follow simple rules, avoid violations, and respect others. Small things are a big help in ensuring public order.”

But the Safer Cities project should be evaluated not only in terms of the number of people apprehended for various violations but also across several policy dimensions: effectiveness, legal-

PARIS

ity, governance, fiscal sustainability, and civil liberties. First of all, what problems will the project hope to solve? Will it target street crime, drug-related offenses, terror threats, or urban disorder? Or maybe all of the above? The project implementation should rely on evidence such as crime data and urban risk mapping.

What is important is to maintain the balance between public order and civil liberties at all times

It should be aligned with clearly defined and empirically validated risks rather than broad, vague goals like “peace and order” without measurable targets.

Most Safer Cities programs in other countries involve such tools as expanded

CCTV surveillance, increased police visibility, ‘smart’ technologies as facial recognition, and community policing.

But these tools must be proven to reduce crime. Heavy reliance on surveillance, for instance, can produce a perception of safety without addressing root causes like poverty or weak prosecution systems.

The DILG must work closely with various local government units (LGUs), so implementation quality will vary.

Do LGUs have the technical capacity to operate and maintain surveillance systems? Are accountability mechanisms clearly defined? After all, a structurally sound policy can still fail if local execution is weak.

We must also point out the legal and civil liberties implications. The program should comply with the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and uphold civil liberties guaranteed by our fundamental law.

The DILG’s Safer Cities project should be considered positive if it is evidence-based, has clear accountability mechanisms, and avoids over-reliance on surveillance as a substitute for systemic reform.

However, it becomes problematic if it centralizes surveillance without oversight, burdens LGUs without capacity support, and prioritizes visibility over actual crime reduction.

What is important is to maintain the balance between public order and civil liberties at all times.

‘Listening bars’ bloom as hottest new nightlife trend

– Not quite like a gig or going clubbing, but there’s a new night out spreading in cities around the world: an evening at a “listening bar”.

An increasing number of venues are adopting the concept, which originated in Japan, of installing high-end sound systems good enough to impress the most demanding audio geek.

Some offer a social experience over drinks, with the music playing in the background, while others sell admission to “active listening” sessions where the songs -- and the speakers -- are the focus of hushed attention.

“It really makes you listen to every word, every instrument, every note,” Camille Calloch, 31, told AFP as she left a listening session dedicated to British neo-soul star Sampha at “Listener” bar in central Paris.

“It’s become one of the ways I enjoy music, along with concerts, my headphones, bars and festivals,” she added.

Listener’s underground, soundproofed audio room has a system worth around 200,000 euros ($235,000) at catalogue prices, with sculptural speakers from niche Greek manufacturer Tune Audio, says co-founder Jerome Thomas.

Listening to albums there reveals subtleties that would go unnoticed in other settings, with the treble crystal-clear and the bass strong enough to be felt physically.

The idea is to combine the vibrancy of a live-music experience and the comfort of listening at home -- all in a way that responds to changes in music consumption habits.

“It’s a completely different way of relating to music,” Thomas explained. “It’s not quick consumption like you have on streaming platforms, with small headphones.

education, and economic collaboration, although it can also cause tension or marginalization of regional languages if promoted over native tongues.

Some refer to Filipino, as used, they say, for the national anthem and civic life which creates a shared identity and sense of belonging, apart from enabling citizens from Batanes to Tawi Tawi to communicate, collaborate, and form social bonds.

A single language – and again they use Filipino as a come on phrase when they actually mean Tagalog – enables efficient administration and national education policies.

But those on the other side of the fence say, and their voices should not be muted nor suppressed, raise reasons why even a carefully legislated and agreed on national language – which should never be Tagalog because this regional language isolates the others – may not unify the nation and faces challenges.

We are persuaded by their argument that there is, in this instance, linguistic inequality, pointing to the more acceptable preference for multiple languages because the imposition of one language can lead to the marginalization of smaller, regional languages and create a disturbingly ugly gulf.

“We really wanted people to take the time to rediscover their favorite artists.”

Sound loss

Thomas, who worked in the medical sector before, says one of the joys of running the bar is seeing clients react to sessions dedicated to artists from Marvin Gaye to Mariah Carey.

“They come to me saying ‘I thought I knew that track by heart, I’ve been listening to it for 15 years, but I heard new instruments, I could hear the mix from the sound engineer’,” he says.

Some offer a social experience over drinks, with the music playing in the background

Recorded music has never been so ubiquitous and portable, yet most people consume it on Bluetooth headphones or lowquality portable speakers, using streaming platforms as the source.

The music is being highly compressed -- in order to stream smoothly, and then to be transmitted wirelessly -- sharply reducing audio quality compared to CDs or analogue-era vinyl.

Some listening bars use high-quality streaming services such as Tidal or Qobuz but most choose vinyl -- and always with high-end cabling, and often with tube or valve amplifiers.

The vibrancy of the listening bar scene contrasts with a decline in clubbing in many cities where rising rents and changing lifestyles among younger generations have hit demand.

“There’s totally been an explosion of these places lately,” the co-owner of the

Each of the 180+ languages is deeply tied to its own culture, history, and identity, and scholars, linguists and many in the academe argue that forcing a single language, like the regional language Tagalog, is counterproductive, because, to be respectful and politically correct, regional identities are strong.

The Philippines is inherently multilingual, and many Filipinos already use a combination of their native tongue, Filipino, and English, treating the latter as a necessary global lingua franca.

Indeed, preserving regional languages in the Philippines is eminently necessary, significant, and meaningful because they act as the primary vessels of unique cultural identities, traditional knowledge, and social cohesion in a country with over 180 distinct ethnolinguistic groups.

These languages prevent cultural homogenization induced by globalization and the dominance of major languages like Tagalog or English.

Based on household usage from research studies, the most dominant regional languages are: Tagalog, spoken in around 39.9 percent of households, dominant in Metro Manila and Southern Luzon; Bisaya/Binisaya/Cebuano, spoken in 16.0 percent–22.5 percent of

New York listening bar Eavesdrop, Dan Wissinger, told AFP. He and his associates opened their Brooklyn venue in 2022, with one room for active listening and the other more social.

A key feature for any self-respecting listening bar is having its rooms designed for music, he said.

“If they don’t have acoustic treatment, then they’re just fake listening bars,” Wissinger explained. “In a hospitality space, if you don’t have good damping, you’re not going to be hearing music first.” Japanese influence The vibrant London scene includes one of the pioneers in Europe, Brilliant Corners, as well as Jumbi, Spiritland or All My Friends.

One of the newest additions is Hidden Grooves, which was created by the Virgin Hotels group for its latest venue in the Shoreditch area of the UK capital. They compiled a 5,000-strong collection of vinyls, brought in a London-based sound engineering company behind clubs in Ibiza (Project Audio), and bought speakers from 100-year-old UK manufacturer Tannoy that cost around 50,000 pounds ($68,000) each.

“If I’m going out to experience music, the concept of a good listening bar checks all the boxes for me,” Virgin’s head of cultural entertainment, Neil Aline, told AFP. Like other fans of the hottest trend in night entertainment, the former DJ and club night organiser pays tribute to the originators: Japan’s atmospheric and cosy “jazz kissa” bars.

“When I was touring I’d go to these bars in Tokyo and Kyoto and I was like ‘wow, this is amazing,’,” Aline explained.

“As a music lover, it’s a whole different way of experiencing music outside of live venues or clubs.” AFP

households, dominant in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Other significant regional languages are Hiligaynon/Ilonggo, prevalent in Western Visayas and parts of Mindanao (about 7.3 percent–7.9 percent of households); Ilokano, dominant in Northern Luzon (about 7.1 percent–8.0 percent of households); Bikol, spoken in the Bicol Peninsula (about 3.9 percent–6.5 percent of households); and Waray, common in the Eastern Visayas region (approx. 2.6 percent–3.8 percent of households). Many Philippine languages are endangered; according to scholars who argue losing a language means losing unique cultural identities and rich heritage. Regional languages, they submit in coffee shops and in academic discussions, contain specialized knowledge of local ecosystems, medicinal plants, agriculture, and ancestral wisdom that is lost when the language dies, adding they are crucial for preserving folklore, literature, and rituals that define the “soul of the nation.”

But what is a nation?

As used in political science and social science discourse, the Philippines is a country that embraces cultural plurality rather than trying to assimilate all groups into one, often in contrast to the “melting pot” concept.

Honor Blanco Cabie

THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

IN BRIEF

North Korea calls Japan paper ‘grave provocation’

SEOUL – North Korea accused Japan of a “grave provocation” on Wednesday after Tokyo laid out its opposition to Pyongyang’s nuclear programme in an annual diplomatic paper.

The countries do not have formal diplomatic relations, and Pyongyang frequently criticises Tokyo over its colonial rule of the Korean peninsula, which ended with World War II.

The Japanese foreign ministry released its annual bluebook last week, detailing Tokyo’s official diplomatic views and repeating its opposition to North Korea having nuclear weapons.

The position is “a grave provocation encroaching upon the sovereign rights, security interests and development rights of our sacred state”, an unnamed North Korean foreign ministry official said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency.

North Korea’s “measures for bolstering up its defence capabilities... belong to the right to self-defence”, the statement said. AFP

Indonesia, France agree to boost defense ties

JAKARTA – Indonesia, fresh off conclud-

ing a defense pact with Washington and an oil deal with Russia, has also agreed to boost defense industry cooperation with France, Jakarta said Wednesday after the countries’ presidents met in Paris.

President Prabowo Subianto was hosted by counterpart Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace Tuesday, where they “discussed strengthening strategic cooperation,” a statement from the government said.

“This includes the procurement of defence equipment and the strengthening of the defence industry,” it said, citing France as a strategic partner for Indonesia in Europe.

The leaders also agreed on cooperation in “energy transition and the development of new and renewable energy”, it said. Prabowo met Putin at the Kremlin on Monday, flying directly from the Russian capital to Paris. AFP

Sri Lanka repatriates 238 stranded sailors

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka has repatriated

238 Iranian sailors stranded in the South Asian country after one of their warships was torpedoed by a US submarine, a minister told AFP on Wednesday.

Deputy Defense Minister Aruna Jayasekara said 32 sailors rescued from the IRIS Dena -- a frigate attacked on March 4 just off Sri Lanka -- and another 206 from the IRIS Bushehr left on Tuesday.

“A few sailors from the IRIS Bushehr are staying back to operate the vessel, but 206 joined those rescued from the IRIS Dena and returned home last night in a chartered aircraft,” Jayasekara said.

Official sources said 15 Iranian sailors will remain in Sri Lanka to operate the IRIS Bushehr, which is anchored off Trincomalee in the northeast of the island.

The attack on the IRIS Dena brought the Middle East conflict into the Indian Ocean, killing 104 sailors in the early days of the US and Israeli war against Iran, according to Iranian authorities.

The bodies of 84 victims were recovered and have been repatriated. AFP

Pope to urge peace in Cameroon’s conflict zone

Cameroon – Pope Leo XIV was scheduled to arrive in Cameroon Wednesday, the second stage of an African tour shadowed by insults from US President Donald Trump and suicide attacks in Algeria on his first day.

The pontiff is to meet Cameroonian President Paul Biya at the start of his four-day visit to the mainly Frenchspeaking country, before heading to a conflict zone where English-speaking separatists have been fighting the army for nearly a decade. The planned private meeting at 3:20 pm with 93-year-old Biya, the world’s oldest head of state, has split Catholics in the central Africa country, who are estimated to account for around a third of the population.

Clergy members have voiced fears it will enable Biya to burnish his image, six months after protests against his disputed re-election were violently suppressed. Biya, who has been in power since 1982, is now on his eighth consecutive term.

On Thursday, the 70-year-old pope makes a high-security trip to Bamenda, the epicentre of the separatist insurgency, where he will pray for peace before 20,000 worshippers. The origins of the Anglophone Crisis date back to the 1970s, when French- and English-speaking parts of Cameroon merged and the Anglophone minority began to fear the loss of its distinctive legal and cultural practices.

A brutal crackdown on protests there in 2016 lead to a full-blown conflict between the army and English-speaking separatists that has yet to be resolved. AFP

Ukraine veteran stages shows to honor killed soldiers

LVIV, Ukraine – When Oleksiy Kravchuk joined the Ukrainian military at the start of Russia’s invasion in 2022, he fought as a sniper and was known by his military nickname Saint Nicholas. Wounded in combat in May 2022 in eastern Ukraine, he then started evacuating the dead bodies of colleagues who had been less lucky before being discharged

when he reached 60 years old.

Since then he has been retelling his life as a civilian and soldier through theatrical stories told with wiry white figurines made from paper.

“This performance is dedicated to the memory of my comrades who fought in my unit and fell in my unit,” he said during a recent performance in the western

Ukrainian city of Lviv, attended by AFP journalists.

“My comrades saved my life. So this is for them,” he told the small audience. Kravchuk had already been putting on figuring displays while serving on the front. And when he returned to Lviv after being wounded, his friend who first created the dolls gifted him the white figurines.

Kravchuk then created a theatrical performance called Wings, dedicated to his killed colleagues.

On stage, he slowly removes the dolls one-by-one from his weathered leather suitcase. Each represents a character from his life, including soldiers he fought alongside and those who had taught him valuable life lessons. AFP

Peru candidate demands vote repeal as count binds L

China, Vietnam leaders sign cooperation deals

BEIJING-- Vietnam’s President To Lam met with China’s leader Xi Jinping in Beijing on Wednesday, Chinese state media said, hoping to deepen ties he says are a top priority.

The visit is Lam’s first trip abroad since the Communist Party leader was elected last week as president -- the number two position in Vietnamese politics.

He has called ties with Beijing a “top priority” but faces a precarious balancing act between the United States -- Vietnam’s main export market -- and the country’s largest supplier China.

Xi and Lam met on Wednesday morning in Beijing’s opulent Great Hall of the

People, and signed several cooperation agreements, state broadcaster CCTV said, without providing immediate details.

Lam wrote in an article published in China’s state-run People’s Daily on Tuesday that ties with China were a “strategic priority” for Vietnam.

“Cooperation between the two countries needs to move strongly from ‘increasing scale’ to ‘improving quality’; from expanding trade to deeper connections between development strategies, economic corridors, production chains, supply chains, and strategic infrastructure,” he wrote.

Families search for 280 missing after boat sinks in Andaman Sea

DHAKA – Families were frantically searching for news of their relatives on Wednesday after a boat carrying about 280 Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi migrants capsized in the Andaman Sea earlier this month.

The boat, which left the southern Bangladeshi port of Teknaf on April 4 and was on its way to Malaysia, sank due to heavy winds, rough seas and overcrowding, according to the United Nations.

Bangladeshi authorities said nine people had been rescued. One survivor told AFP the boat sank nearly 10 days ago, casting gloom over the fate of the missing.

“I now have 70–80 photos on my mobile phone from people asking for updates on the victims,” 40-year-old Rafiqul Islam, one of the survivors, told AFP on Wednesday. Islam, who sustained burn injuries as

oil spilled from the trawler, said he was lured by traffickers who promised him a job in Malaysia.

The Rohingya on board the boat were likely leaving huge camps in Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar, where more than a million refugees forced to flee war-torn Myanmar’s Rakhine state live in squalid conditions.

Rakhine state has been the scene of fierce fighting between the military and the Arakan Army, an ethnic minority rebel group.

The Rohingya undertake perilous sea journeys every year in search of better living conditions, travelling aboard rickety boats often operated by trafficking networks.

Bangladesh police said Wednesday they had arrested six people on suspicion of human trafficking over the incident. AFP

He reiterated that China was a “strategic choice and top priority” during a speech at Beijing’s Tsinghua University on Tuesday, Vietnamese state media reported.

Despite rival territorial claims in the South China Sea, the two countries have sought to deepen already close economic ties to guard against global trade upheaval caused by US President Donald Trump’s tariffs.

Chinese exports to Vietnam surged 22.4 percent last year, with Vietnam spending $198 billion on Chinese goods -- more than any other country in Southeast Asia. AFP

IMA – Peruvian right-wing presidential hopeful Rafael Lopez Aliaga gathered hundreds of supporters in Lima on Tuesday (Wednesday, Manil time)and gave authorities 24 hours to annul the first round of the country’s election over allegations of fraud.

Lopez Aliaga, a fan of US President Donald Trump, is locked in a tight threeway race with a leftist candidate and a social democrat for second place in Sunday’s vote.

The election runner-up wins a ticket to June’s presidential run-off against conservative frontrunner Keiko Fujimori.

“I am giving them 24 hours to declare this electoral fraud null and void,” said Lopez Aliaga, surrounded by a crowd of several hundred supporters. “If it is not declared null and void tomorrow, I will call for a nationwide protest.”

The election ran into Monday in parts of the capital Lima because of delays in the supply of ballots and other materials, which prevented tens of thousands of people from casting their vote the day before. Elections observers acknowledged the dysfunctional nature of the vote but said they saw no evidence of fraud.

Ultraconservative Lima former mayor Lopez Aliaga saw his lead over leftist ex-minister Roberto Sanchez and social democratic candidate Jorge Nieto shrink as the vote count continued.

With just over 80 percent of ballots counted, Fujimori -- the daughter of divisive former president Alberto Fujimori -- had about 17 percent.

Lopez Aliaga was on just over 13 percent, compared to more than 11 percent for Sanchez.

Projections from the Ipsos institute suggest that Sanchez is on course to reach the second round.

Addressing reporters, Lopez Aliaga repeated his fraud claims and called on the electoral commission to “act, declare this entire process null and void, or figure out how to resolve this.”

In response to an AFP question, he confirmed that he was seeking the annulment of the vote and called on his supporters to take to the streets. AFP

initiated peace talks between Russia and Ukraine have

at the idea it could cede territory to Russia. AFP

BERLIN – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has told a German broadcaster that US peace negotiators “have no time for Ukraine” because of the war in Iran, and bemoaned disruptions of deliveries of US arms.

Zelenskyy told public broadcaster ZDF that Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who have helped broker talks with Moscow on ending Russia’s war on Ukraine, were “constantly in talks with Iran” at the moment. Describing the pair as “pragmatic,” Zelenskyy said they were trying to “get more attention from Putin to end the war.”

But “if the United States does not put pressure on Putin (...) and only engages in a gentle dialogue with the Russians, then they will no longer be afraid,” he said.

US-led talks to end Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II have stalled since the Iran war erupted on Feb. 28, and Russian and Ukrainian negotiators have not met since February in Geneva. Zelenskyy said that the issue of deliv-

eries of US arms to Ukraine has become “a big problem.”

“If the war goes on, there will be less arms for Ukraine. It’s critical, especially in materials for air defenses,” he said. Zelenskyy later told a press conference during a visit to Norway that this was especially a problem for PAC-3 interceptor missiles, as well as the PAC-2 missile. He said these were primarily bought through the PURL program, which was launched last year and allows Ukraine to receive US equipment financed by European countries.

“At the very beginning of... (the) war in the Middle East we understood that we can have challenges,” Zelenskyy said. Zelenskyy said deliveries came “slowly”, noting it was a “very difficult position for us.” Zelenskyy made the comment alongside Norwegian Prime

SOWING DOUBT. Peru’s presidential candidate for the Juntos por el Peru party, Roberto Sanchez, greets a supporter during a press conference at his campaign office in Lima on Wednesday, Manila time. Ultra-conservative candidate Rafael Lopez Aliaga, who is vying for a spot in the runoff of Peru’s presidential election, called on election authorities to declare the election ‘null and void’ due to unproven irregularities in the process. AFP

LESS ARMS DELIVERIES. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (2nd right), German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (right) and other German ministers attend a lunch meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (3rd left) and members of the Ukrainian delegation at the Chancellery in Berlin on Tuesday during German-Ukrainian government consultations. The meeting comes as US-

stalled, with Kyiv baulking

SPORTS

UE quashes

La Salle’s Final 4 hopes

ALSO-RAN University of the East

slammed the door on De La Salle University’s postseason aspirations, carving out a stunning 25-21, 28-26, 26-24 victory in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Volleyball Tournament on Wednesday morning at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila.

With the Green Spikers fighting to keep their slim playoff hopes alive, the trio of Raquim Aceron, Roy Piojo, and Xjhann Camaymayan delivered in the clutch, allowing the Red Warriors to play spoiler and send La Salle out of the Final Four for the first time since Season 81 (2019).

The loss also ended La Salle’s 17-match winning streak over UE, a run that dated back to Season 77.

The victory, which snapped UE’s two-game skid and lifted its record to 3-10, also formally completed the Final Four cast in the men’s division, joining Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles, Far Eastern University Tamaraws, defending champion National University Bulldogs, and University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers in the postseason.

The Blue Eagles, who endured three straight fifth-place finishes from Seasons 85 to 87, are returning to the Final Four for the first time since their bronze-medal finish in Season 81.

“We were short of our main goal, which is to enter the Final Four, but we did not stop na magensayo pa rin nang maayos to win games kasi it’s character building for the team. Sabi ko nga before, bata pa rin naman kami,” UE assistant coach Jumbo Dimaculangan said, noting the Red Warriors’ breakthrough win over La Salle—their first since February 16, 2014 (Season 76), a 25-23, 15-25, 25-21, 25-22 victory.

“We needed na makakuha ng win para to gain more confidence na magagamit pa namin dahil may isang game pa kami. Magagamit namin siya rin in the coming years,” Dimaculangan added.

Lady Spikers close in on elims’ sweep after win over UE belles

DE LA Salle University moved on the cusp of the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Finals after overpowering also-ran University of the East, 25-20, 25-18, 25-15, on Wednesday afternoon at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila.

The Lady Spikers stayed unbeaten at 13-0 and inched closer to their first elimination-round sweep since Season 76 (2014)—an achievement that would secure an outright Finals berth and trigger a stepladder format.

La Salle will aim to complete the sweep against modern-day rival and defending champion National University this Sunday, April 19, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay. The Lady Spikers won their firstround encounter against the Lady Bulldogs, 25-21, 25-19, 19-25, 25-17, last March 15

at the same Pasay venue.

La Salle was also able to insert substitutes Mikee Santos, Ella de Guzman, and Mikole Reyes, who all responded well in the straight-set victory.

“Siguro, hindi naman mawawala ‘yung pressure pagdating sa amin. Siyempre, nandoon ‘yung pressure na kailangang manalo, pero lagi namang pinapaalala ni coach na score at number lang ’yan. Kailangan mag-focus pa rin sa kung ano yung nasa harapan mo, which is ‘yung NU ngayon, at one

game at a time lang. Sana, hopefully, maganda pa rin ‘yung mapakita namin na game against NU,” La Salle assistant coach Gian de Jesus said.

In the third set, the Lady Spikers turned a 4-4 deadlock into a comfortable 15-9 advantage, capped by three consecutive attacks from second-year outside hitter Shane Reterta.

From there, La Salle stayed firmly in control, with Angel Canino’s attack, a Kristine Iquio attack error, a Mikee Santos crosscourt hit, and a down-theline conversion from De Guzman sealing the match in just 78 minutes.

In a tightly contested second frame, the Lady Spikers pulled ahead for a two-set advantage behind consecutive Lilay del Castillo blocks, a Canino backrow hit, and a quick attack by Amie Provido.

“That’s what the coaches are instill-

NBA Rising Stars Invitational returns to Singapore in June

THE National Basketball Association (NBA) on Wednesday announced that the second annual NBA Rising Stars Invitational, the league’s highschool basketball tournament featuring boys’ and girls’ teams from across Asia-Pacific, will return to Singapore from June 22 to 28 at OCBC Arena. Held in collaboration with Sport Singapore (SportSG) and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and operated by the event agencies of NBA Singapore, this year’s event will feature 12 boys’ and 12 girls’ teams of youth ages 18 and under competing in round-robin play before advancing to single-elimination competition.

NBA champion Jeremy Lin and Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) champion Lauren Jackson will headline the event and interact with the participants

throughout the week.

The participating teams will be identified in collaboration with national basketball federations and leagues and through local qualifying tournaments in Bangkok, Melbourne, Taipei and Tokyo. As the host city, Singapore will be represented by two teams in each division. The participating players will also take part in skill development sessions, social impact programming and off-court activities promoting cultural exchange. Top individual performers from the event will have the

opportunity to attend future NBA basketball development camps, showcases and programs.

Lin and Jackson will be joined by additional current and former NBA players who will be announced prior to the event. The NBA Rising Stars Invitational will also feature a range of activities for fans of all ages, including community outreach initiatives, photo opportunities, authentic NBA memorabilia, player appearances and meet-andgreet sessions, exclusive clinics, as well as live entertainment and interactive fan experiences.

ing in us—one game at a time. We don’t worry about this streak that we have and the 13-0; we worry about how we perform, and if we perform, of what we had done in training. Being disciplined in staying true to the system the coaches have taught us,” Laput said, who finished with 12 points on 10-of20 kills, one block, and one ace alongside four excellent digs.

Joshua, Fury discuss fight in November

LONDON—British heavyweight rivals Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury are on course to meet in a long-awaited bout in November, according to promoter Eddie Hearn.

The NBA Rising Stars Invitational is supported by SportSG, STB and Karim Family Foundation.

Additional information about the NBA Rising Stars Invitational 2026, including the full list of participating teams, ticket information, marketing partners and media partners, will be announced in the coming months. For the latest news and updates about the event, visit www. nbarisingstarsinvitational.com and follow the NBA Rising Stars Invitational on Instagram and YouTube.

cludes guest team Diverse Auckland Cubs

Surpassing last year’s 30-squad field, the highly anticipated high school girls’ volleyball tournament promises more exciting and thrilling competition featuring up-andcoming talents. Repeat-seeking National University-Nazareth School banners a competitive 20-school Division 1 in the tournament supported by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner and R and B Milk Tea. Domuschola International School, on the other hand, will have its hands full defending its Division 2 crown in a 24-entry field that in-

“We’re continuing with having two divisions in the SGVIL. Since the establishment of the second division last year, more schools have approached us and expressed interest in joining the league. In fact, the teams have grown in number, record numbers. There are now 20 in Division 1 and 24 in Division 2, with a team from New Zealand joining as well,” said Dr. Ian Laurel, president of the league organizer Athletic Events and Sports Management, Inc. (ACES) during the tournament presser on Wednesday at the Shakey’s Paseo de Magallanes.

“So, the interest at the high school level in joining the Shakey’s GVIL has exponentially grown, and it is an honor for us, a pleasure for us to be able to host them again this year,” Laurel added. Teams in Division 1 are divided into four

pools with five squads each while in Division 2, six squads are bunched in four pools. The Lady Bullpups, who beat Bacolod Tay Tung in a cardiac five-set finale last year, lead Pool A alongside King’s Montessori, inaugural champion California Academy, Lyceum of the Philippines Academy and Bethel Academy. Three-time runner-up Bacolod Tay Tung is in Pool B with Canossa Academy, Holy Rosary College, University of Perpetual Help SystemDalta and Immaculate Conception College. De La Salle-Lipa, Far Eastern UniversityDiliman, University of the Philippines Integrated School, San Felipe Neri Catholic School and St. John’s Institute composed Pool C while in Pool D are 2024 champion Adamson University, Emilio Aguinaldo College, Chiang Kai Shek College, University of Santo Tomas and De La Salle Santiago-Zobel.

Hearn on Tuesday said he was “pretty sure” the pair will finally meet later this year. Fury made his latest comeback following 16 months in retirement when he defeated Arslanbek Makhmudov on points on Saturday.

Following that bout, Netflix announced on social media that the richest fight in British boxing history had been agreed between Fury and Joshua.

Hearn said the streaming service jumped the gun but he is confident the fight will happen. Joshua first needs to get back in the ring for a warm-up fight after his victory over YouTube star Jake Paul in December in his only appearance in 19 months.

“We received the contracts at the end of last week for their proposal of the two fights and we’ve been going back and forward and we continue to do that,” Hearn said.

“My instructions from AJ are to make the fight and that’s what we’ll be trying to do. I wouldn’t really say there are sticking points, but obviously when you receive a contract it’s very natural to go back with a lot of stuff. AFP

The Lady Spikers sing the La Salle

hymn after beating the UE Lady Warriors.

Oliver Sicam, Shakeys Pizza Asia Ventures general manager, and Doc Ian Laurel, ACES president/chairman, with volleyball players. Roman Prospero

Eala eyes Madrid reset after rough start to clay campaign

By Jeremiah Sevilla

PHILIPPINE tennis pride Alexandra Eala will look to bounce back in the Mutua Madrid Open in Spain after suffering back-to-back early exits to start her claycourt campaign.

The world No. 45 Eala will seek to find her rhythm as she competes in her third tournament on clay set to begin on April 21.

Eala, who reached a career-high No. 29 before her round of 16 exit in the Miami Open, will head into her first WTA 1000 event on the surface that continues to be a hurdle for the Filipina tennis ace.

The 20-year-old Eala bowed out in the opening round of the Stuttgart Open after absorbing a 1-6, 4-6 loss to Canada’s Leylah Fernandez early

Games Thursday (FilOil Centre)

4 p.m. – Creamline vs Farm Fresh 6:30 p.m. – PLDT vs Cignal

Cool Smashers, Foxies dispute

EXPERIENCE meets hunger. Legacy confronts promise.

That is the compelling backdrop as Creamline and Farm Fresh collide Thursday for the last Finals berth in the Premier Volleyball League AllFilipino Conference.

On paper – and in pedigree – the advantage tilts heavily toward Creamline, the league’s 10-time champions. The Cool Smashers have built a dynasty on composure under pressure, thriving in knockout games where poise, precision and championship DNA matter most.

But Farm Fresh has made a habit of defying expectations.

Barely three years into the league and in its first Final Four appearance, the Foxies now stand on the brink of a breakthrough. Fresh off a statement win over the top-seeded PLDT High Speed Hitters, they carry not just momentum – but belief.

“Tiwala sa isa’t isa (trust in each other) – that’s what carried us,” said Trisha Tubu, whose clutch scoring powered Farm Fresh into this win-or-go-home clash set at 4 p.m. at the FilOil Centre. Still, the climb gets steeper.

Creamline knows this terrain all too well. From navigating high-pressure moments to closing out do-or-die matches, the Cool Smashers have turned experience into an edge few teams can match. With a battle-tested core led by Bernadeth Pons, Jema Galanza, Tots Carlos, Bea de Leon, Pangs Panaga and Jia de Guzman, they possess the depth, chemistry and championship instincts honed over years of title runs.

Hornets stay alive; Blazers make playoffs

LOS ANGELES—LaMelo Ball was hero and villain as the Charlotte Hornets sent the Miami Heat tumbling out of the NBA play-in tournament with a thrilling 127-126 overtime victory on Tuesday. Charlotte had never won a win-orgo-home postseason game in 12 previous attempts and looked in danger of extending that record after blowing a 125-120 lead with 26 seconds remaining to allow Miami to edge ahead 126-125.

After Miami star Tyler Herro sank a superb corner three-pointer to make it 125-123, Ball carelessly turned over possession and then gave away three free-throws with a rash lunge on Herro. Herro drained all three shots to give Miami the lead with just nine seconds left. Ball though made amends with a determined driving layup to make it 127-126 before an athletic block from Miles Bridges snuffed out Miami’s last-gasp attempt to win it.

“We stuck with it and ground it out,” Ball said. “We wasn’t hitting our threes, all the shots weren’t hitting, but we stuck with it.”

Ball was at the centre of controversy over an incident in the second quarter which led to Miami star Bam Adebayo hobbling out of the game.

Wednesday morning (Manila time).

Despite the straight-sets defeat, Eala earned €11,309 (Php 797,000) and was acknowledged by Fernandez’s fathercoach Jorge for her comeback attempt in the second set.

“He said, ‘she’s not going to go down easy as you can see. She’s gonna fight. You’re gonna have to take the match,” the world No. 25 Fernandez, a Canadian of Filipino descent, said in the post-match interview.

After quickly dropping the opening set and staring at a 2-5 deficit in the

second frame, Eala threatened to ignite a comeback, saving two match points to pull within 3-5.

Eala put more pressure on her fellow lefty rival as she cut the defi cit down to 4-5 and even seized a 30-0 lead in the 10th game. However, Fernandez re gained her compo sure to seal the win. Before the Stuttgart Open, Eala crashed out in the round of 16 of the Linz Open after los ing to Jelena Ostapenko, 4-6, 5-7. She failed to sustain the momentum from her 6-4, 6-3 win over Julia Grabher in her Eala will now need to stick to the positives from her three matches on clay so far as she tries to turn things around in the Madrid Open next week.

After being blocked during a drive to the basket, Ball reached out and tripped Adebayo with a tug on his standing leg, sending the Miami star crashing to the hardwood. He played no further part in the game.

Miami coach Erik Spoelstra was furious that Ball escaped an ejection.

“The referees are there for what? How did they not see that? I don’t want this to be an excuse, Charlotte was incredible at the end,” Spoelstra fumed.

“I don’t think that’s cute. I don’t think it’s funny. I think it’s a stupid play. It’s a dangerous play. Our best player is out.

“(LaMelo) should be penalized for that. I don’t think that belongs in the game, tripping guys, shenanigans. Someone has got to see that. And he should have been thrown out of the game for that.” AFP

Gregorio: MPTC Tour of Luzon, sports tourism ride together

THE MPTC Tour of Luzon 2026 hits the road on April 29 in Calatagan and no less than the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee (NST-IAC) has bestowed its recognition on the 14-stage race that features local and foreign teams.

“The Philippine Sports Commission [PSC] supports the conduct of the MPTC Tour of Luzon 2026 as an activity aligned with the objectives of the NSTIAC,” said Patrick “Pató” Gregorio, who chairs both the PSC and the NST-IAC.

“The PSC likewise recognizes the significance of the event in providing opportunities for athlete participation and in contributing to the continued development of Philippine sports,” added Gregorio, now considered as the “Father of the Tour of Luzon revival for having spearheaded the fabled summer spectacles’ return last year.

“To this end, the participation of qualified athletes and personnel is strongly encouraged,” he said.

The Tour of Luzon returns for a second straight year under the slogan “A Heritage in Motion” with the Grand Depart for Stage 1 set at 8 a.m. from CaSoBe in Calatagan to a Grand Finish in Tagaytay City, where PhilCycling and Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino welcoming the entourage.

At least six foreign teams have confirmed their participation, according to the Tour’s Chief Organizer and CEO Arrey Perez, with nine local teams—UCI continental and club—vying for the top individual

prize of P1 million and team purse P2 million from the total prize pot of P12 million.

Three more overseas squads have pending applications for the race supported by the PSC, MVP Group and title sponsor MPTC and raced under UCI regulations through sanctioning national federation PhilCyling.

Gregorio said that the Tour of Luzon caters not only to the elite in cycling but to the multitude of aspiring young riders all over the country.

“Our athletes cannot be deprived of their dreams,” he said. “Let sports continue!”

The NST-IAC was established under Administrative Order No. 38 to harmonize sports tourism initiatives across government and private sectors.

Accordingly, all concerned government agencies and private entities are encouraged to extend appropriate assistance, subject to applicable laws, rules and regulations, in support of the effective implementation of this activity.

Stage 1 on April 29 of the MPTC Tour of Luzon will be from CaSoBe (Calatagan) to Tagaytay City, Stage 2 team time trial from Clark Parade Grounds to New Clark City, Stage 3 from New Clark City to Palayan City, Stage 4 from Palayan City to Bayombong, Stage 5 from Santiago City to Tuguegarao City, Stage 6 from Tuguegarao City to Pagudpud and Stage 7 Pagudpud-Pagudpud the first of two individual time trial (ITT) races.

Guico, Lee impress at JPGT Summit Point; Balangauan, Sajuela shine

LIPA City, Batangas—Zach Guico and Andrea Lee delivered commanding performances in the youngest division, highlighting a string of dominant victories in the ICTSI Summit Point Junior PGT Championship here on Wednesday. Guico stamped his class in his season debut, overcoming a closing 81 to secure a convincing five-shot victory in the boys’ 7-10 division with a 151 total in the 36-hole tournament. The rising star from Quezon City built a solid cushion with a two-under 70 in the opening round, allowing him to

the

a

18 holes without pressure.

challenge from Zoji Edoc, who fired an eagle-aided frontside 37 to briefly threaten, Guico stayed composed and coasted to victory as Edoc faltered in the closing stretch under hot, windy conditions. He finished with an 80 for a 156, while Asher Abad placed third for the second straight leg with a 163 after a 78. Lee, also from QC, matched Guico’s dominance on the girls’ side, cruising to a similar five-shot triumph with a 160 after an 83. She thwarted the charge of Mount Malarayat leg winner Winter Serapio, who settled for second at 165 after an 82, while Jehanne Mendoza carded a second 84 for third at 168.

PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio

Deni Avdija of the Portland Trail Blazers drives to the basket against the Phoenix Suns’ Dillon Brooks during the 2026 SoFi Play-In Tournament at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. AFP

Remittance growth at 9-month low

INDEPENDENT research shows that DP World operations at the Batangas Integrated Port (BIP) support 2,340 jobs nationwide and drive significant economic activity across the Calabarzon region.

The study conducted by Oxford Economics found that the port contributed nearly $28 million to the economy in 2024 while strengthening the connectivity of the Philippines to global trade routes. Operated by Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI), the local partner of DP World, the terminal creates a ripple effect benefiting logistics workers, transport providers, and small business owners. According to the data, 1,320 of the supported jobs are located within Calabarzon across the manufacturing, transport and service sectors.

Cash remittances in February 2026

$2.79 billion $2.72 billion

$5.81 billion

Cash remittances in February 2025 Cash remittances in 2 months

By Thony Rose Lesaca

CASH remittances grew at their slowest pace in nine months in February 2026 as high international living costs and seasonal factors weighed on inflows from overseas workers, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas data showed Wednesday.

Cash remittances sent through banks rose 2.6 percent to $2.79 billion from $2.72 billion a year earlier, according to the BSP. The growth rate was the slowest since May 2025, when inflows fell 2.9 percent to P2.66 billion.

Reyes Tacandong & Co. senior adviser Jonathan Ravelas attributed the moderated growth to seasonality and the financial pressure on Filipinos working abroad.

“What we’re seeing is a temporary dip, not a red flag.

February is usually a softer month due to seasonality, and higher living costs abroad mean OFs are being more careful— even as remittances still grew year-on-year,” Ravelas said.

Land-based workers contributed $2.25 billion to the February total while sea-based workers sent $532.4 million. The United States remained the primary source of these funds, followed by Singapore and Saudi Arabia.

Personal remittances, which include informal channels and

attributes pension fund drop to post-franchise retrenchment payouts

By Darwin G. Amojelar

ABS-CBN Corp. on Wednesday defended its financial management, saying that a substantial decrease in its retirement fund resulted from payouts to thousands of workers laid off after the company lost its broadcast franchise.

The media company issued the statement in response to reports it claims are linked to an internal family dispute on the company’s future. ABS-CBN said recent reports used the status of the retirement fund as a pretext to falsely claim concern for employee welfare.

Company records show that while one director suggested a total shutdown of ABS-CBN without a plan to honor employee obligations, the majority of the board advocated for continued financial support over liquidation to protect staff, retirees and stakeholders.

“Contrary to what the article claims, the largest decline in ABS-CBN’s pension fund was due to payouts to close to 6,000 employees who were retrenched as a result of the franchise loss. This is proof of ABS-CBN’s commitment to fully meet all its obligations to its employees,” the company said.

The network acknowledged it has faced challenging financial years since the 2020 franchise loss but noted steady improvement. The board of directors and the Lopez family have commended this progress and emphasized the company’s importance to the country.

ABS-CBN also dismissed as “repeated lies” allegations that 68 individuals received preferred treatment in retirement benefit payouts. The company said it explained these matters to the full board and its compensation committee, noting that most of these individuals are retirees who received only partial or no benefits despite having already retired.

“They have agreed to voluntarily wait until ABS-CBN’s financial position improves before receiving full payment. They did not get preferential treatment. In fact, they deferred receipt of payment so that the thousands of employees who were separated from the company received their separation pay in full,” the company said. The issue of unpaid retirement obligations reached the board in November. ABS-CBN said that allegations on a P2billion capital infusion being used for these payouts are false, a claim the company said every board member refuted except for one.

in-kind transfers, matched the 2.6 percent growth rate to reach $3.10 billion for the month.

Ravelas warned that global inflation, sluggish economic growth and rising fuel prices linked to Middle East instability may keep remittance growth in the low single digits for the immediate future.

“But structurally, remittances remain resilient—OFs tend to step up support during tough times. The key message is this: remittances will continue to cushion Filipino households, but they won’t be a growth booster on their own, so the economy needs broader drivers to carry momentum this year,” Ravelas said.

Cash remittances in the first two months expanded by 3.1 percent to $5.81 billion, while personal remittances rose 3.1 percent to $6.46 billion.

The terminal directly employs 839 people on-site. The research highlights high productivity levels, noting that each DP World employee supports about $23,900 in annual gross value added. This is higher than the $4,000 per worker average found in the broader transport and storage sector of the region.

The port also plays a role in economic inclusion, with women representing 28.1 percent of supported roles and youth aged 24 and below accounting for 11.4 percent.

The impact of modernization is visible for local entrepreneurs like Mister Donut franchise owner Reche Feliciano.

Feliciano grew her business inside the passenger terminal following upgrades to the facilities and increased footfall. Her story reflects how trade infrastructure opens doors for small businesses and creates local livelihoods.

Future forecasts suggest that improved maritime connectivity at Batangas will increase Philippine goods exports by 0.8 percent. This growth is expected to unlock approximately $1 billion in additional GDP by 2035.

METAL MANUFACTURER. The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) approves the registration of Dream Precision Tech Corporation as an ecozone

export enterprise at the Lima Technology Center–Special Economic Zone (LTC-SEZ) in Batangas province. Signing the agreement on March 30, 2026 are PEZA director general Tereso Panga (third from left) and Dream Precision president Gang Liu (second from left). Witnessing the ceremony are PEZA deputy director general for operations Vivian Santos and Dream Precision vice president Wenjie Qi.

BUSUANGA AIRPORT. Department of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez orders the faster construction of a new and wider Busuanga Airport in Coron, Palawan to accommodate and encourage more tourists and help the local economy in the area. Pre-procurement for the airport will begin next week and construction will begin in the last week of July this year. The new Busuanga Airport Passenger Terminal Building is expected to be completed by May 2027.

BUSINESS

Prime Infrastructure joins Navotas fire fight

NAVOTAS Mayor John Rey Tiangco said Wednesday that Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc., a company led by tycoon Enrique Razon Jr., has dispatched two tugboats equipped with firefighting capabilities to help extinguish a persistent blaze at the city’s sanitary landfill.

The fire reportedly began on the evening of April 10.

“We have borrowed tankers from Maynilad. Prime Infra has also sent tugboats with a fire pump,” Tiangco said during a press briefing.

Tiangco did not specify the exact equipment loaned by Prime Infra or provide details on its specific deployment as of the latest update.

In addition to private sector assistance, the Navotas local government has sought support from the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, and the Department of Transportation to control the fire.

PEZA approves GREEENC’s P370-m solar manufacturing project in Batangas

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has registered Genuine Renewable Energy and Eco-Friendly Energy Network Corp. (GREEENC) for a P370-million solar manufacturing project.

PEZA director general Tereso Panga and GREEENC Chairman Joseph Aguilar signed the agreement April 13 at the agency’s head office.

GREEENC will locate its facility at the Light Industry and Science Park III – Special Economic Zone in Sto. Tomas, Batangas. The plant will manufacture, assemble, and export solar photovoltaic modules for various applications.

The project is expected to generate $132 million in export sales during its incentivized period. Products are primarily destined for European Union markets, reinforcing the Philippines’ push to become a hub for renewable energy technologies.

Panga said the project is timely given heightened global energy security concerns. He noted that renewable energy manufacturing investments help strengthen longterm resilience by creating jobs, advancing technology, and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.

“This investment is particularly impactful in today’s global context,” Panga said. “As nations grapple with energy insecurity, rising fuel costs, and climate-related disruptions, initiatives in renewable energy manufacturing strengthen long-term resilience.”

The Batangas host site is one of the country’s established industrial estates, offering access to the South Luzon Expressway and STAR Tollway. It is designed to support high-tech manufacturing and exportoriented operations under PEZA incentives.

The landfill site spans approximately 40 hectares.

The mayor said the city hospital is prepared to treat residents affected by smoke or smog resulting from the incident. Tiangco reiterated that the city’s priority is containing the fire and preventing further spread.

The blaze broke out at approximately 7:56 p.m. on April 10. As of April 14, authorities have intensified sand burial operations to suppress an apparent underground fire. While the incident was declared “under control” on April 12, the Navotas Fire Station has yet to officially declare the fire fully extinguished.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

CEBU-BASED snack manufac-

turer Prifood Corp. has partnered with COREnergy, the retail electricity arm of Vivant Energy Corp., to power its manufacturing facilities in a strategic shift toward flexible energy sourcing.

The agreement covers Prifood’s two plants in Mandaue City, representing a combined demand of up to 750 kilowatts. By consolidating electricity requirements across its Cebu sites, Prifood gains stronger purchasing leverage and a more proactive approach to managing energy use.

“At COREnergy, we were built to open doors for businesses to take control of how they use energy,” said Marko Sarmiento, COREnergy retail and sales head. “Through the Power of Choice, we enable manu-

facturers like Prifood to align their energy strategies with their operational goals — driving productivity, profitability and performance.”

Prifood is among the first food manufacturers in the Visayas to formally engage a retail electricity supplier under the Retail Aggregation Program (RAP), an initiative led by the Department of Energy and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).

The program allows contestable customers — such as manufacturers, schools and commercial establishments — to pool electricity demand to secure more competitive rates and tailored services.

As a “gentailer,” COREnergy integrates generation and retail ca-

pabilities to deliver end-to-end energy solutions. This model allows companies like Prifood to take a more active role in optimizing consumption. Founded in 1990 in Mandaue, Prifood has grown into one of the country’s established snack food producers, with brands such as Super Crunch and Super Delights distributed nationwide. The company has steadily expanded beyond its Visayas base, building production hubs to support its market reach. “For us, innovation goes beyond the product. It extends to how we run our operations,” said Enrico Yap, assistant general manager of Prifood. “Through this partnership, we are integrating more sustainable and smarter approaches to energy.”

11. Consideration of such other matters as may properly come during the meeting; and 12. Adjournment.

Shareholders may cast

and VIII. Other matters.

For the purpose of the meeting, only stockholders of record as of 15 April 2026 are entitled to attend and vote in the said meeting. In accordance with the guidance of the SEC dated March 14, 2022 on virtual corporate meetings as a means to foster stakeholder participation, the Corporation’s Board of Directors has approved on 25 March 2026 in accordance with SEC rules a virtual stockholders’ meeting for 2026. The meeting will be held online by remote communication and voting will be in absentia. The specific procedures for participating in the meeting through remote communication and voting in absentia are set forth below.

Stockholders who intend to attend and participate in the virtual meeting in person or through proxy shall first submit on or before 24 April 2026 via email to MEDSHMeeting@medco.com.ph the scanned copy of their Letter of Intent to attend and participate via proxy or by remote communication and a copy of the stockholder’s valid government-issued ID showing photo and personal details. Once validated, a registered stockholder will receive via email the proxy form and voting ballot. Stockholders must submit on or before 5:00 p.m. on 28 April 2026 via email to MEDSHMeeting@medco.com.ph their duly accomplished proxy form and/or voting ballot. Validation of proxies shall be on 30 April 2026 at 5:00 p.m. at the office of the Corporation. Only stockholders who have notified the Corporation of their intention

CYAN

Prifood Corp. Cebu plant general manager Roy Yap and assistant general manager Enrico Yap with COREnergy retail and sales head Marko Sarmiento and manager Rodson Lumayaga during the signing of the supply agreement.

The agreement was signed by PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga and GREEENC chairman Joseph P. Aguilar.

BSP eases bank rules to boost lending

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) extended regulatory relief to financial institutions and their clients to counter rising energy prices and supply constraints caused by Middle East geopolitical tensions.

The BSP’s Monetary Board approved the measures on April 8, 2026 following the declaration of a State of National Energy Emergency on March 24.

The BSP said it aims to support lending activity and borrower recovery through these temporary provisions.

Under the new guidelines, BSPsupervised financial institutions (BSFIs) may grant affected borrowers

a grace period of up to 6 months for loan payments. Agricultural loan payments may be deferred for up to 1 year based on bank assessments.

The BSP said it will also allow institutions to exclude loans to affected borrowers from past due and non-performing classifications for up to one year. Banks should follow specific notification and reporting requirements to qualify for this exclusion.

It said BSFIs should exercise prudent judgment and ensure relief only reaches borrowers whose repayment capacity was materially affected by the energy emergency.

The regulator said the application of these measures should remain targeted, proportionate and consistent with safe and sound banking practices.

To further assist consumers and businesses, the BSP urged banks to temporarily suspend fees on online platforms and e-money services.

This includes InstaPay and PESONet electronic fund transfers.

The regulator noted that lowercost digital transactions reduce the need for transportation to physical branches during the energy crisis.

The BSP said it remains committed to promoting financial stability and consumer protection while maintaining the overall health of the financial system during the emergency.

MANILA NETWORKING. Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco addresses gaming industry stakeholders during the 34th Manila After Dark networking event, hosted by Inside Asian Gaming. Tengco says the Philippine gaming industry is feeling the strain of ongoing tensions in the Middle East as elevated fuel prices weigh on

Malampaya gas project cuts PH reliance on imports

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE government’s push for domestic energy production has reached a critical milestone with the successful drilling of new wells at the Malampaya gas field, reducing the nation’s reliance on fuel imports amid volatility in the Middle East.

Prime Energy Resources Development B.V. president Donna Kuizon Cruz said the phase 4 drilling program has secured enough gas to maintain the field’s output for at least six years. The consortium, led by Prime Energy, successfully tested the Malampaya East-1 and Camago-3 wells in 2026, while drilling continues at the Bagong Pagasa-1 site.

The project remains on schedule to deliver new natural gas by the fourth quarter of 2026. The Malampaya field provides 20 percent of the electricity

Fortune, Grace, and Restraint: A Mother’s P271-Million Moment

THERE are moments that divide a life into before and after. For “Angel,” a mother and sari-sari store owner from Central Luzon, that moment arrived quietly—without spectacle, without warning—on an ordinary morning just before the day’s responsibilities began. Between preparing breakfast and opening her small neighborhood store, she glanced at her phone and encountered a number so vast it seemed almost abstract: P271,433,871.79. It is the kind of figure that belongs to the realm of imagination. Yet for Angel, it became reality—an extraordinary windfall from Casino Plus, where she had been playing casually, and always with intention. What followed was not exuberance, but stillness. Hanggang ngayon, hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala,” she reflects softly. “Hindi ko naman talaga inaasahan.” The Elegance of Restraint

If there is a defining quality in Angel’s story, it is not luck—but discipline.

Long before the jackpot, her life was shaped by a quiet rigor familiar to many Filipino women: Managing a household, sustaining a small business, and ensuring that every peso served a purpose. Leisure, when it came, was modest and contained—brief moments of play, never indulgence. Her approach to gaming mirrored this philosophy. It was never about pursuit, but about pause. She set limits. She honored them. And she walked away when needed.

In a world that often equates aspiration with excess, Angel embodies a more enduring ideal: Restraint as a form of wisdom. Trust, Transparency, and the Modern Filipino Player

There is, inevitably, a quiet skepticism that accompanies stories of sudden fortune—the lingering question of whether such wins are real, or merely imagined narratives amplified by chance.

Angel’s experience offers a grounded answer. Behind the life-changing figure is a system designed for legitimacy. As a platform licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, Casino Plus operates within a regulatory framework that mandates strict verification protocols, secure digital processes, and accountable payout mechanisms. Every win undergoes Know Your Customer (KYC) verification and multi-layered validation before release— ensuring that outcomes are not only possible, but properly documented, processed, and delivered. For Angel, this translated into something tangible: Certainty.

Napakadali at maayos ang proseso. Inalalayan nila ako.” In a landscape where trust is often questioned, her story stands not as an exception—but as proof of a system working as intended.

A Different Kind of Wealth

Sudden fortune often invites urgency—the impulse to acquire, to expand, to transform outwardly.

Angel chose otherwise.

Her first instinct was not to spend, but to reflect.

“Hindi ko po mamadaliin. Pag-iisipan ko muna.”

Her priorities remain elegantly simple: a permanent home for her family, and an uncompromised education for her children. These are not grand gestures of wealth, but enduring investments in dignity and stability.

It is a perspective that reflects a deeper understanding: That wealth, when approached with clarity, becomes not a spectacle—but a foundation.

The Quiet Power of Possibility

In many ways, Angel’s story resonates not because of the size of the prize—but because of its familiarity.

She is not an outlier in ambition. She is emblematic of it.

Across the Philippines, sari-sari stores line narrow streets and barangay corners—micro-enterprises powered largely by women who balance entrepreneurship with caregiving. These are lives defined not by excess, but by endurance, adaptability, and quiet hope.

Angel’s win does not erase that story—it amplifies it. And perhaps that is what makes it compelling for a broader audience: Not the spectacle of P271 million, but the image of a mother who, even in the face of extraordinary change, remains anchored to the same values that shaped her before it. Measured. Responsible. Forward-looking.

Living Well, Playing Right

In the end, Angel offers no grand philosophy—only a principle shaped by lived experience: “Importante ang control. Dapat alam mo ang limit mo.” It is a sentiment that resonates beyond gaming. It speaks to a broader ethos of modern aspiration—where success is not defined by how much one gains, but by how thoughtfully one chooses to live.

Because true luxury, as Angel’s story reveals, is not found in the scale of fortune—but in the grace with which it is held.

for Luzon, the most populous island in the Philippines, and has generated more than $14 billion in revenue for the government over 2 decades.

“I think it’s a very good approach, more long-term focus,” Cruz said.

“In the end, if you don’t invest in indigenous gas… you will reach a point where we import 100 percent. So, it’s good this year… we have Malampaya,” she said.

The progress follows a 15-year extension of the Service Contract 38 license and the passage of the Philippine Natural Gas Industry Development Act. These policy shifts under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. provided the regulatory stability necessary for the first major offshore discovery in over 10 years.

Cruz said the all-Filipino consortium completed the project in three years, faster than the typical five to

seven-year timeline for such developments. Without these new wells, the country would face total dependence on the global market and a potential energy crisis through 2028.

“We already have two wells delivered. We’ve tested these wells and we’ve proven there’s gas that we can produce to maintain the Malampaya plateau for at least six years,” Cruz said.

“We’ve started laying the pipes that would connect these wells to the platform. It’s on track... we should be able to meet the Q4 2026 promise,” she said.

Prime Energy, a unit of Enrique K. Razon Jr.’s Prime Infra, is now evaluating additional petroleum blocks for future development.

The consortium includes UC38 LLC, Prime Oil & Gas and PNOC Exploration Corp.

IN BRIEF

flew over 7.5 million passengers, up 8.4 percent from 7 million in 2025. Domestic travelers grew 7.9 percent to 5.6 million while international passengers increased 9.8 percent to 1.9 million. The seat load factor averaged 83.7 percent for the period as overall capacity rose 10 percent to 9 million seats.

“We saw strong demand growth in March and throughout the first quarter, supported by the start of the school breaks and sustained momentum in our international segment. Load factors remained healthy across the network, reflecting disciplined capacity management,” Cebu Pacific chief executive Mike Szucs said. Darwin G. Amojelar

Megaworld starts wellness township MEGAWORLD Corp, began the initial development phase of its 25-hectare San Benito Private Estate wellness township in Lipa City, Batangas, the company said in a stock exchange disclosure on Wednesday.

The initial work includes building roads and basic infrastructure for the integrated development. Megaworld previously committed P12 billion to develop the property, which will feature residential, commercial and leisure components. The project is a partnership with CG Hospitality, the owner of The Farm at San Benito. The wellness resort operates under the Autograph Collection brand of Marriott International.

The township will consist of private villas, residential lots and commercial spaces. Megaworld will dedicate about 50 percent of the estate to open spaces, including forest reserves, parks and green areas. Alliance Global Group Inc. president and chief executive Kevin Tan said the development aims

Angel receives her P271 million winnings from Casino Plus—an experience defined not just by fortune, but by trust, transparency, and care.

A life-changing win, guided by control and discipline. For Angel, playing with limits made all the difference.

Revenue District Officer Richard Go and FFCCCII president Victor Lim urge the FilipinoChinese business community to file 2025 tax returns before the April 15 deadline during a Binondo seminar.

Filipino-Chinese group supports timely tax filing

By Julie Ann Lope

ABUREAU of Internal Revenue official (BIR) called on the FilipinoChinese business community to file their 2025 tax returns ahead of the April 15 deadline during a seminar hosted by the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) on March 30, 2026.

Revenue District Office No. 30-Binondo Revenue District officer Richard Go detailed key tax issues and new compliance requirements at the Federation Building in Binondo. The event aimed to raise awareness about recent policy changes and introduce new tax projects to the community.

Go said he hoped the seminar would strengthen cooperation between the private sector and the government while ensuring taxpayers fulfill their legal obligations. He urged attendees to avoid the last-minute rush as the deadline approaches.

FFCCCII president Victor Lim thanked the official for clarifying complex taxation matters.

Lim said the federation, as the community’s principal organization, consistently encourages its members to abide by the law and support government programs.

“FFCCCII consistently encourages members to abide by the law and support government policies and programs,” Lim said.

Lim appealed to the community to respond to the government’s call by filing their 2025 returns by the mid-April cutoff. The seminar also served as a forum to address specific questions from business owners regarding recent shifts in tax policy.

The Philippines mandates that taxpayers file annual income tax returns for the previous calendar year by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest charges.

THE Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc.’s (FFCCCII) social responsibility committee treated 1,100 residents during a free medical mission at the Payatas Barangay Hall on March 22, 2026.

The medical team, which included 7 doctors and 10 dentists, provided healthcare services at the invitation of Quezon City’s Michaela Cares. The group treated 800 patients, performed 100 dental extractions and distributed 200 pairs of reading glasses to underserved members of the community.

The mission aimed to improve access to basic healthcare and dental services for residents in the Payatas area. FFCCCII said the initiative is part of its ongoing commitment to social responsibility and community welfare. Michael Wong Ho

PHILIPPINE General Consul General Iric Cruz Arribas met with China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) Secretariat officials on April 1, 2026 to fast-track preparations for the Philippines’ stint as Country of Honor at the upcoming trade event in Nanning. The 2026 expo, scheduled for this September, will feature dedicated zones for digital trade, the green economy and lowcarbon industries.

CAEXPO secretary general Wang Jicai shared plans to utilize these sectors to strengthen crossborder cooperation between the 2 nations. The secretariat requested the consulate’s assistance in mobilizing Philippine firms, specifically targeting companies specializing in artificial intelligence and advanced technologies. Organizers also invited Filipino businesses to enter the AI+ Competition in Guangxi starting in April 2026. As part of the coordination effort, CAEXPO will send a delegation to Manila in May 2026 to participate in IFEX Philippines. The visit aims to intensify two-way outreach and finalize the selection of the Philippines’ “City of Charm,” a showcase category that highlights specific local investment and tourism hubs.

By Michael Wong Ho

THE Makati Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce marked its 52nd anniversary on March 29, 2026 by inducting its 51st–52nd board of officers at the Century Seafood Restaurant in Manila.

The chamber elected Cai Wen Xu as the new president to lead the organization’s efforts in the Philippines’ primary financial district.

Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) president Victor Lim delivered the keynote address, where he urged the group to deepen cooperation with the national federation and help the government drive economic initiatives.

THE Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) and the Culture Center of TECO in the Philippines concluded a two-day Mandarin Teaching Workshop on April 12 to modernize language instruction for nearly 100 teachers across the country. The program, held at the Filipino Chinese Cultural and Economic Association, focused on advancing Mandarin education through professional training and digital resource integration. Culture Center of TECO director Eric Po-chih Chuang opened the ceremony alongside guest Jasper Huang. Chuang said the OCAC maintains a long-term commitment to advancing Mandarin education overseas through teacher training, professional workshops and cultural initiatives. The agency provides resources such as the “Let’s Learn Mandarin” textbook series and the

Lim ckited Makati’s status as the country’s financial engine, noting that Ayala Avenue serves as the local “Wall Street.”

He said the city’s concentration of international banks, the Philippine Stock Exchange, and major retail centers makes the chamber a vital player in attracting foreign investment.

During the ceremony, Makati Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce honorary president Zhuang Chong Zhen served as chairman of the conference.

Makati Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce forever honorary president Lin Guo Duan administered the oath to the incoming leadership team.

Lim called on the chamber to prioritize social responsibility

HuayuWorld digital platform to support flexible classroom environments.

The Culture Center also manages local cultural events where students demonstrate language proficiency and traditional appreciation. Huang said Mandarin education is vital to preserving cultural heritage within overseas communities. He praised the dedication of the 100 attendees and urged them to adapt to evolving educational trends.

National Sun Yat-sen University Chinese Language Center instructors Wei-Hsin Tung and Hsin-Yu Chang led sessions covering pronunciation, tone instruction, beginner listening techniques and vocabulary activity design. The curriculum addressed specific challenges faced by overseas learners and provided practical classroom strategies. Julie Ann Lope

and international diplomacy. He encouraged the officers to foster stronger people-to-people ties between the Philippines and China and to support charitable projects aimed at marginalized groups.

“The chamber and other Filipino-Chinese organizations must unite with the mainstream community and work with the government to overcome current economic challenges,” Lim said.

The induction comes as business leaders seek to strengthen the role of the private sector in national recovery.

Lim said that by promoting trade and giving back to society, the organization helps solidify Makati’s position as a premier cultural and entertainment hub for Metro Manila.

PHILIPPINE aquaculture and tuna businesses aim to deepen ties with Chinese buyers and global trade partners at the 12th Guangdong International Aquaculture Expo, scheduled for June 18 to 20, 2026 at the Zhanjiang Olympic Sports Center.

Organizers and industry sources said the event offers a timely commercial platform for the Philippines to leverage its role as a leading regional tuna supplier. The country’s competitive processing costs could attract significant investment if paired with demonstrable sustainability and traceability practices.

The three-day event, themed “Aquatic Industry, Better Life,” will convene industry leaders, processors and technology providers to showcase developments in seafood processing and product safety. The expo reaffirms the status of Zhanjiang as the “Capital of Chinese Seafood Cuisine.”

The exhibition covers 30,000 square meters and features dedicated zones for international aquatic products, frozen seafood, aquatic equipment and smart marine ranching. Organizers designed the expo to accelerate industry development by fostering international collaboration and building advanced processing bases.

Professional forums running alongside the exhibition will address trends in the industry, including the Marine Ranching Development Forum, the Golden Pompano Industry Development Summit and the Shrimp Industry Forum. These sessions focus on technology and sustainability challenges facing global markets.

Delegates expect product showcases, technology demonstrations and opportunities for business matchmaking. The event promotes innovation in breeding, cold-chain logistics and intelligent aquaculture systems.

NP Multimedia Consultancy Services, a firm based in the Philippines, is organizing a delegate group to participate in the expo. Interested parties may contact the group at npmultimediaservicesph@gmail.com.

The expo serves as a global platform for cooperation and investment, strengthening the link between the Chinese industry and international partners. Exhibitors will highlight advancements in high-tech aquaculture to meet increasing global demand for safe seafood products. Michael Wong Ho

Philippine Consul General Iric Cruz Arribas meets with CAEXPO Secretariat leaders to prepare for the Philippines’ Country of Honor role at the 2026 expo in Nanning.

The Makati Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce inducts Cai Wen Xu as president during its 52nd anniversary, with FFCCCII president Victor Lim calling for increased foreign investment.

The Overseas Community Affairs Council holds a two-day Mandarin Teaching Workshop in Manila for 100 educators to enhance language instruction and cultural heritage.

THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

By Eton Concepcion

THE Philippine movie industry commemorates the first death anniversary of National Artist Nora Aunor , who passed away on April 16 last year.

The Filipino screen legend left behind a stellar cinematic legacy comprising an extensive and diverse body of work acclaimed here and abroad. Truly, it can be said we will not see the like of her in Philippine entertainment.

To celebrate her legacy, we look back at some of her lighthearted romantic comedy/ romantic drama starrers that are worth revisiting. Here is a recommended list of ten (if copies are not lost) to choose from: Lollipops and Roses (1971), directed by Artemio Marquez and filmed in the USA. Aunor and Cocoy Laurel’s first screen team-up, a nostalgic, sweet, and passionate look at 70s teen romance; Somewhere Over the Rainbow (1974), an Orlando Nadres adaptation of the Hollywood classic is paired with screen heartthrob Navarro. Aunor sang her version of the classic Judy Garland Academy Awardwinning song “Over the Rainbow” in this musical fantasy film;

In ‘Merika,’ Nora portrayed the role of a nurse contemplating a return to her homeland through her interactions with an elderly Filipino patient

Lollipops and Roses at Burong Talangka (1975), Elwood Perez’s riotous screwball comedy sequel reteaming Aunor with Laurel. Regarded as Aunor’s best comedy film, shot in San Francisco, USA, filled with slapstick humor, comical mishaps, and awkward situations; Mahal Mo, Mahal Ko (1978), directed by Elwood Perez, a casting coup exploiting the ultimate, all-time

NATION’S Girl Group BINI is scheduled to return to the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival stage on April 18 (Philippine time), marking its second appearance at the U.S.based music event. The eight-member group will perform a 45-minute set at the Mojave stage, which will be streamed live on Coachella’s YouTube channel. BINI, composed of Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena , made its Coachella debut on April 11 (Philippine time), becoming the first Filipino group to perform at the festival.

The group is also set to launch its Signals world tour this year, beginning with a show at

SHOWBIZ

Remembering National Artist Nora Aunor

blockbuster love triangle of Aunor, Christopher de Leon, and Tirso Cruz III . Aunor faces a situation in which she must choose between a husband who waits and a lover who insists; Totoo Ba Ang Tsismis (1981), directed by Maryo J. de los Reyes. Aunor plays a nurse who falls in love with her patient, played by Gabby Concepcion , which sends tongues wagging among the hospital staff. Guaranteed to bring “kilig” moments; Dalaga si Misis, Binata si Mister (1981), Lino Brocka’s rare romcom, with then real-life couple Aunor and Christopher de Leon teaming up as a successful couple who decides to break up and live separate lives; Bakit Bughaw ang Langit (1981), directed by Mario O’Hara, a tale of

HOLLYWOOD star Tom Cruise and Mexican

filmmaker Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu unveiled a preview of their comedy Digger at CinemaCon on Tuesday, part of Warner Bros.’ presentation at the Las Vegas event.

Cruise appeared transformed in the clip, sporting an older, eccentric look while holding a white cat inside a mansion filled with taxidermied animals. He described the film as “wild” and “funny,” drawing a standing ovation. Inarritu said the role may be among Cruise’s most challenging, highlighting a different kind of risk from his usual stuntdriven performances.

Warner Bros. showcased its upcoming slate following recent successes including Sinners, Weapons, and best picture winner One Battle After Another. Executives

Pam Abdy and Mike De Luca said film output rose to 11 releases last year from six in 2022, with 14 planned this year and a target of 18 by 2027.

The presentation featured footage from Dune: Part Three, introduced by director Denis Villeneuve with Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, and Jason Momoa. Other titles included Practical Magic 2, The Great Beyond and Supergirl

unconditional love, with Aunor as an oppressed young woman falling for a mentally challenged young man played by Dennis Roldan ; Mga Uod at Rosas (1982), a film by Romy V. Suzara . A love triangle among Aunor as the wife, Johnny Delgado as the painter-husband, and Lorna Tolentino as the model-lover; Merika (1984), directed by Gil M. Fortes

A film that delves into the lives of Filipino migrants in America. Aunor, as a nurse facing the dilemma of returning to her native land, is poignant in her scenes with an old Filipino patient; and Naglalayag (2004), directed by Maryo J. de los Reyes. At age 51, Aunor co-stars with Yul Servo in her first and last May-December love affair movie. Aunor and Servo displayed infectious on-screen chemistry that lit up the screen.

the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Manila on June 20, followed by a stop at the SM Seaside Cebu Arena on July 11. International tour stops include the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, Italy, France, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Taiwan.

Tickets to the SM MOA Arena show are up for grabs at SM Tickets outlets and smtickets. com, priced at P11,499 (SVIP 1), P9,999 (SVIP 2), P7,999 (VIP), P4,499 (Box Premium), and P1,399 (Box Regular). Tickets general sale starts today, April 16.

BINI released its latest extended play Signals on April 9 and performed its lead track “Blush” during its Coachella set.

The event unfolded amid industry concern over Paramount Skydance’s proposed merger, with “#BlockTheMerger” pins circulating and an open letter signed by filmmakers including Villeneuve and J.J. Abrams

Separately, Japan’s Toho studio previewed Godzilla Minus Zero, directed by Takashi Yamazaki. The sequel to 2023’s Godzilla Minus One is set in 1949 and follows the Shikishima family as the creature appears in New York. The earlier film earned $116 million globally and won an Oscar for visual effects.

Following its Coachella debut, BINI gears up for a global ‘Signals’ tour, expanding their reach from festival stages to international arenas

Recognized both locally and abroad, National Artist Nora Aunor’s body of work continues to resonate a year after her passing

From intimate character studies to socially grounded narratives, Nora Aunor’s films often mirrored the struggles and realities of ordinary Filipinos

starring Hwang Jung-min, Zo In-sung, Michael Fassbender, and Alicia Vikander, alongside I Love Boosters and A Place in Hell AFP

Tom Cruise takes on a different kind of role in ‘Digger,’

What makes Kyline Alcantara sparkle

By Nickie Wang

ACTRESS Kyline Alcantara has been drawing attention online this summer, with beach photos showing a more toned physique she credits to pilates, boxing, and Muay Thai.

finishes with individual undertones.

“They help in my fitness,” she told Manila Standard Life, adding she

on maintaining

a specific

“I just maintain my current physique, and I’m comfortable with how my body moves and works at the moment.”

Fresh from a recent island break, Kyline shared her idea of a perfect summer with a light remark.

“Gas prices are low…that’s the perfect idea of summer,” she said in jest before adding that for her it means spending time with friends and family, enjoying the heat and the beach, and continuing to work.

“I love spending time with my girlfriends and family during the summer, especially when we’re on a beach vacation,” she noted.

Even at the beach, the actress keeps a polished look, often wearing rings and stud earrings. She said the way jewelry catches sunlight adds to her confidence.

“I can’t live without accessories,

especially my rings,” she said.

“Jewelry makes me feel confident. I love wearing rings and stud earrings even when I’m on the beach.”

Her fondness for accessories was seen during a recent event by Filipino brand Klad at SM Makati, where she appeared as a guest and drew attention upon arrival.

The brand launched its Signature Collections at the Makati venue, presenting three lines that ranged from nature-inspired designs to classic and contemporary pieces aimed at modern consumers.

The event gathered media personalities, influencers, and retail guests, with host Janeena Chan leading the program. A bridal couture segment by designer Russel May paired gowns with the jewelry collections, offering a look at coordinated styling for formal occasions.

Guests also took part in a color analysis session by Arte Studios, which focused on matching jewelry

A brand representative said the launch was designed as an experience that encourages personal style and self-expression. The event marks the brand’s latest step in expanding its presence in the local jewelry market.

Program launched to train pharmacists in respiratory care

Philippines has partnered with the Philippine College of Chest Physicians (PCCP) to train store pharmacists as respiratory health educators, expanding access to communitybased care through a new capacity-

The initiative, called the Respiratory Educator’s Program, aims to equip selected Watsons pharmacists with specialized knowledge in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), inhalation therapy, and patient education. Training includes hands-on sessions on proper inhaler techniques and case-based learning to help pharmacists identify common usage errors and guide patients more effectively.

“Our pharmacists are at the heart of this promise.

They are not only healthcare professionals in our stores; they are trusted partners in the communities we serve,”

Ma Corina M. , director for people and organization development

The program will begin with a two-day training session on May 26 to 27, in partnership with PCCP and the Philippine Pharmacists

Association. The initial batch will include 50 pharmacists, with plans to expand the initiative across Watsons’ nationwide store network.

Dr. Virginia S. Delos Reyes, president of PCCP, said managing respiratory conditions requires continuous patient education and support alongside clinical treatment. She said the partnership brings medical expertise closer to communities, where pharmacists play a key role in patient guidance and awareness.

PCCP said the program is designed to meet clinical standards while translating respiratory care expertise into community practice, supporting earlier intervention and better treatment outcomes.

Watsons Philippines managing director Danilo Chiong said the initiative strengthens the role of pharmacists as accessible healthcare partners. By combining clinical training with retail pharmacy reach, the program seeks to improve patient education and disease management for respiratory conditions.

For Watsons Club members, the initiative adds access to pharmacistled guidance during store visits, including inhaler use support and follow-up assistance alongside existing rewards and services.

Asian leaders to discuss funding ahead of climate disasters

CLIMATE science can now forecast disasters days or weeks in advance, but across Asia, funding still arrives largely after damage has been done, highlighting a gap leaders aim to address at a regional conference later this month.

The Asian Conference on Climate Change and Disaster Resilience (ACCCDR), set for April 30 at the Asian Institute of Management in Makati, will gather policymakers, development finance institutions, private sector leaders, and local officials to discuss anticipatory climate finance.

The approach focuses on releasing funds based on forecasts and risk data before

disasters strike, rather than after, as climate risks intensify across the region.

Carrying the theme “From Risk to Readiness: Investing in Climate Futures in Asia,” the conference seeks to shift climate finance from reactive to proactive systems, ensuring resources reach vulnerable communities in time to reduce impact.

“Climate change is one of the greatest threats of our time, demanding urgent and coordinated action,” AIM president and Dean Jikyeong Kang said. She added that academic institutions must equip leaders with the strategic vision to strengthen systems against rising risks, with climate finance playing a key

role in both mitigation and adaptation.

Discussions will cover global funding mechanisms, national investment strategies, private sector risk management, and local implementation, with a focus on “last-mile” delivery where financing reaches communities. Organizers said the conference will also examine barriers that continue to limit access to funds.

“ACCCDR strengthens leaders’ capacity to address interconnected risks—from climate change to economic crises—through coordinated governance,” said Erin Downey, head of the Stephen Zuellig Graduate School of Development Management. Chad Briggs , academic program director of

AIM’s Executive Master in Disaster Risk and Crisis Management, said the forum aims to connect global funding and expertise to local governments to improve preparedness before disasters occur.

Organizers said sustained dialogue, stronger leadership, and closer coordination across sectors are needed to bridge the gap between policy and implementation.

As climate risks rise, the cost of delayed action is expected to increase, adding urgency to efforts to move from disaster response to preparedness.

Register now and join the conversation: https://acccdr.aim.edu/#SecureSeat

The partnership brings respiratory care guidance closer to communities by preparing pharmacists to

Host Janeena Chan (left) and Kyline Alcantara pose for the cameras at the event

Jewelry stays part of Kyline Alcantara’s daily styling, adding a familiar

A steady mix of pilates, boxing, and Muay Thai helps Kyline Alcantara maintain her summer-ready body

By Nickie Wang

AA subtle but game-changing revolution in skin health

N O W & N E X T

George Rebolledo, founder of Kutis By Kei, during the Rejuran Infinite Awards Night.

At the event, Dr. Kei explained that Rejuran functions as a skin booster designed to address concerns such as dullness, enlarged pores, fine lines, and acne scarring.

“By stimulating collagen production and improving cell turnover, the treatment aims to enhance overall skin quality over time rather than deliver immediate changes,” he added.

SHIFT toward long-term skin health is driving interest in treatments that focus on repair rather than dramatic change. Within this shift, regenerative approaches that support the skin from within are gaining wider attention across the globe.

Am I peeing too much or too little?

Medical institution explains factors that affect how often you go to the bathroom

THE medical term is micturition, but simply put, it is urination, a natural body function that removes toxins, excess sodium, and waste, says Rolando Guillermo O. Saulog, MD, of Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed).

On average, a person urinates about six to seven times a day. But going slightly more or less is usually normal. “If you go only four times in 24 hours, it is fine. And if you go 10 times, that’s okay too,” he says.

According to Dr. Saulog, frequency depends on several factors:

Age. The bladder becomes less elastic with age, so it fills faster. Hormonal changes, including lower estrogen during menopause, may also affect bladder function.

Fluids and diet. Alcohol and caffeine act as diuretics, increasing urine output. Higher intake of coffee, tea, beer, or wine can mean more trips to the toilet.

Pregnancy. Hormonal shifts, increased blood and fluid volume, and pressure from the growing uterus contribute to more frequent urination.

Medical conditions. Frequent small amounts may signal urinary tract infection. Diabetes, kidney issues, electrolyte imbalance, enlarged prostate, heart failure, and bladder disorders can also increase urination frequency.

Medicines. Diuretics for blood

pressure, heart, kidney, or liver conditions, as well as some diabetes and psychiatric drugs, can increase urine output.

Bladder size. A male bladder can hold up to about 700 ml, while a female bladder holds about 500 ml.

On the other hand, oliguria or urinating only one to two times in 24 hours (less than 400–500 ml daily) may be linked to dehydration, urinary blockage, or infection.

See a doctor if urination comes with pain or burning or if there is pain in the lower back, pelvis, or genitals. Blood in urine, incontinence, or difficulty controlling urination are also warning signs. Cloudy, dark, or foul-smelling urine should be checked.

Tests such as urinalysis, kidney function tests, imaging (x-ray, ultrasound, MRI, CT scan), and uroflowmetry can help identify the cause and assess bladder and kidney function.

“Healthy living ensures efficient and natural urination,” Dr. Saulog says. He advises staying hydrated, eating fruits, vegetables, and probiotic-rich foods, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and maintaining hygiene after intercourse. Women are also advised to wipe front to back after urination.

“Most important: Do not hold back your pee. Go when you feel like it.”

Among them is Rejuran, a South Korean injectable developed using polynucleotides derived from salmon DNA. These molecules are regarded as highly compatible with human skin and are used to support cellular repair, improve elasticity, and reinforce the skin barrier at a structural level.

“Unlike dermal fillers that add volume or neuromodulators that limit muscle movement, Rejuran works by encouraging the skin to heal itself. The approach has made it popular among patients seeking gradual, natural-looking results,” said Dr. Kei

The procedure is performed by licensed medical professionals, typically dermatologists, who inject small amounts of the product into targeted areas such as the face, neck, or under-eye region. Mild redness or small bumps may appear after treatment but usually subside within a few days.

Results develop gradually over several weeks, with improved hydration often seen first, followed by smoother texture and increased firmness. Practitioners generally recommend multiple sessions spaced weeks apart, with maintenance treatments every few months depending on individual needs.

The treatment’s growing popularity

follows broader changes in the beauty industry, where consumers are prioritizing maintenance and prevention over corrective procedures. This skin health innovation, which emphasizes supporting skin biology, has contributed to its increasing presence in clinics and online discussions worldwide.

The program was held on April 13 in Makati and gathered doctors, business leaders, and key figures in dermatology and the aesthetic industry.

The Rejuran Infinite Awards Night honored innovation, excellence, and achievement in the field, including recognition of partners who carry the Rejuran brand. Emerging brand Kutis By Kei walked home as the most decorated dermatology and aesthetic clinic of the evening, with six awards, including the coveted Platinum Membership Award, Social Impact and Visibility Award, and Emerging Star Award.

“These awards inspire us to continue advancing our approach to skin health and to maintain high standards in treatments,” Dr. Kei stated. “It’s both humbling and motivating for our team.”

Stress Awareness Month campaign aims at improving access to mental health care

MENTAL health sits at the center of daily life, shaping how people think, feel, focus, and respond to the world around them. It is not only about the presence or absence of illness but also about resilience, clarity, and the ability to manage stress in moments that stretch attention and emotion thin.

As modern life grows faster and more connected, conversations around mental well-being continue to move from the background into everyday awareness, leading to the need for care that is accessible, timely, and understood as part of overall health.

Mental health provider MindNation is offering a 50 percent discount on its anxiety support package in April as part of its Stress Awareness Month campaign, aimed at improving access to professional care for people experiencing stress and anxiety.

The campaign, titled “The Future Is Clear,” runs from April 1 to 30 and reduces the cost of its Anxiety Control Bundle to P2,550 from P5,100.

The package includes three oneon-one sessions with a licensed psychologist and access to a self-care toolkit with exercises and worksheets designed to help users manage stress, anxiety, and overthinking. Sessions are conducted online and are required to be completed within three months.

MindNation said the initiative comes amid rising levels of chronic stress, driven by constant digital connectivity and daily pressures, which can affect focus, decisionmaking, and well-being.

“Stress is no longer occasional— it’s constant,” the company said in its campaign statement.

The organization said many individuals delay seeking professional

help until symptoms worsen, underscoring the importance of early intervention.

Eiza Fusingan-Lappay, chief wellbeing officer at MindNation, said timely support can help prevent stress from developing into more serious mental health conditions.

Individuals who undergo structured psychological support may experience improvements in emotional regulation, focus, and coping skills, she said.

The bundle is also offered as a gift option for individuals supporting family members or friends experiencing stress.

Daily pressure, overthinking, and constant connectivity continue to shape the conversation around stress and mental well-being

The promotion uses the code CLEAR and is open to adults aged 18 and older. Minors may participate with guardian consent. The offer cannot be combined with other discounts and is non-refundable. Sessions must be used within the validity period. MindNation describes itself as a mental health and wellbeing organization working with employers, schools, and institutions to provide digital and in-person support services.

There’s a need for timely support as emotional strain becomes a more constant part of daily life for Filipinos

Dr. Kei George Rebolledo outlines how regenerative treatment can address concerns such as dullness, fine lines, enlarged pores, and acne scarring over time

A growing number of patients are choosing skin-focused treatments that favor gradual improvement over quick fixes

Dr. Kei George Rebolledo’s (3rd from left) Kutis by Kei emerged as the most awarded clinic, followed by Aivee Clinic, represented by Dr. Aivee Aguilar-Teo (center) and Dr. Z Teo (3rd from right)

More people are turning to treatments that support repair, hydration, and stronger skin from within