House targets April 29 to end impeach probe
Proceedings to decide probable cause, not guilt—solon
By Rio N. Araja
THE House Committee on Justice is targeting April 29 to conclude its impeachment hearings against Vice President Sara Duterte, a member of the panel said Sunday.
A committee report could be transmitted to the House plenary when Congress resumes session on May 4, marking the next phase of the constitutional process that may lead to a Senate trial, Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong said. Meanwhile, Bicol Saro partylist Rep. Terry Ridon said the Land Transportation Office (LTO) confirmed that motor vehicles registered under the name of selfconfessed bagman and impeachment witness Ramil Madriaga are reflected in its records. ( see related story on A2 – Editors ) Adiong, a member of the justice panel, said the committee is nearing
• Madriaga credible, says Acidre
• VP Sara should pay COA disallowances
issues extreme heat caution today
By Rio N. Araja
Pope Leo lashes out vs. tyrants,
THE Strait of Hormuz remained closed on Sunday in the stand-off between Iran and the United States, with Iran's powerful speaker of parliament signaling a final peace deal was "far" off despite movement in negotiations. As mediation efforts continued following high-level talks in Pakistan that failed to reach a deal, Iran said it would not reopen the crucial maritime trade route until the United States ended its blockade of Iranian ports.
Mo -
hammad
Bagher
•
Ghalibaf, speaker of the Iranian parliament, said in a televised address on Saturday night that there had been "progress" with Washington "but there are many gaps and some fundamental points remain". "We are still far from the final discussion," said Ghalibaf, one of Teh
By Alena Mae S. Flores
THE rollback of prices projected for tomorrow could be up to at P26 per liter for diesel and P3 per liter for gasoline, according to an industry source. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. over the weekend earlier announced a "big-time" oil price rollback of as much as P24.94 per liter for diesel and P2-3 per liter for gasoline. This will be the second consecutive week that diesel and gasoline prices are expected to go down. Meanwhile, the Department of Energy called on oil firms to immediately implement the "big-time" oil price rollback.
“To our oil companies, President Bongbong Marcos Jr. is calling for the price rollback to be implemented fully, correctly, and without delay. We look forward to that from you,” Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said.
THE Department of Agriculture-Cordillera Administrative Region (DACAR) successfully facilitated the marketing and transport of 30,000 kilos of cabbage and Chinese cabbage (wombok) for a community pantry project in Quezon City. The vegetables were purchased by Fashion Depot Thrift Store for its com-
munity pantry initiative on April 18, 2026, in Cubao, Quezon City. The owner of Fashion Depot Thrift Store, a fellow Cordilleran, has been purchasing local vegetables from the region through DA-CAR on several occasions, including during the COVID-19 .pandemic, specifically for community pantry initiatives.
POPE Leo XIV spoke out against tyranny and "disasters" caused by the exploitation of natural resources on Saturday as he arrived in Angola for a visit to the oil-rich country with high levels of poverty. Leo flew in from Cameroon for the third leg of his tour of Africa, telling journalists on the plane that he regretted his
By Ma. Katrina Mikaela Manubay
RESPITE FROM THE HEAT. President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos took off with sons Simon and Vinny to Baguio yesterday for an extended celebration of their wedding anniversary. FL Liza Araneta-Marcos FB
BATAD TERRACES FIRE. A fire burns at the world-famous and UNESCO heritage site, Batad Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao, but was put out on April 18, according to the Batad municipal government. The LGU did not say what caused the
‘LTO confirms Madriaga’s claim on vehicles’
By Rio N. Araja
THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) has confirmed that all motor vehicles registered under the name of Vice President Sara Duterte’s alleged bagman, Ramil L. Madriaga, appear in its records.
These include the vehicles Madriaga claimed were purchased using funds allegedly given to him by former President Rodrigo Duterte, Bicol Saro partylist Rep. Terry Ridon said Sunday.
House...
From A1
the end of its evidence-gathering phase, with key agencies and resource persons scheduled for the remaining hearings on April 22 and 29.
The committee is moving to determine probable cause on multiple complaints against the Vice President, alleging threats against top government officials, misuse of confidential funds, unexplained wealth, and discrepancies in her Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN).
“Ang alam ko on the 29th, hopefully we will wrap up,” he said in an interview over dzBB’s Bantay Balita sa Kongreso.
Once approved at the committee level, the report—along with the third and fourth impeachment complaints—will be elevated to the plenary. Lawmakers will then be given time to review the findings before any vote is taken, Adiong said. He explained that plenary deliberations will allow members to question the sponsor of the report, Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro, who chairs the committee.
Strait...
From A1
ran's senior negotiators in the talks aimed at ending the war launched by Israel and the United States against the Islamic republic.
A two-week ceasefire is set to end on Wednesday (April 22) unless it is renewed.
US President Donald Trump said "very good conversations" were going on with Iran but warned Tehran against trying to "blackmail" the United States.
Pope...
From A1
Throughout his four-nation Africa visit, which started in Algeria on Monday, the pope has delivered pointed warnings against corruption, the plunder of the continent's resources and the dangers of artificial intelligence.
In Luanda, he condemned the "social and environmental disasters" caused by rampant exploitation of resources.
"How much suffering, how many deaths, how many social and environmental disasters are caused by this logic of exploitation," he said in an address to officials including Lourenco.
Angola is one of Africa's top producers of crude oil and is also rich in resources like diamonds but inequality is stark as much of the wealth does not reach ordinary people.
Around a third of the largely young population of 36.6 million people lives below the international poverty line of $2.15 per day, according to the World Bank.
Speaking out against "despots and tyrants" who seek to subjugate people to their power, Leo also urged Angola to "not be afraid of dissent."
Authorities in the country, ruled by Lourenco's socialist MPLA party since independence in 1975, have been accused of stifling freedom of expression including through heavyhanded responses to demonstrations.
Poverty was partly blamed for a three-day looting spree during a strike against fuel hikes in July last year when around 30 people were killed in a police crackdown that was criticised by rights groups. Hundreds of people were jailed.
Regrets Trump spat
On the plane from Cameroon, Leo told journalists that he regretted that remarks he had made during his tour had been interpreted as a response to criticism from Trump, insisting he had no interest in debating the US leader.
Ridon, a member of the House Committee on Justice, said six vehicles previously owned by Madriaga were found in the LTO database. He added that the LTO also con-
“So hindi siya agad-agad ma-aprubahan kasi magkakaroon pa ‘yan ng, of course magkakaroon pa talaga ng debate ‘yan (It won't be approved immediately, as it is still expected to undergo further debate),” Adiong said.
“There will also be time for other members to elicit answers from the chairperson which would be the sponsor of this committee report,” he added.
Adiong emphasized that the House proceedings are limited to determining probable cause and do not establish guilt.
The panel’s task, he said, is to assess whether the evidence—including supporting documents—is sufficient to elevate the case for trial before the Senate.
In other developments:
• Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre said Madriaga has provided credible testimony that supports key allegations in the impeachment complaints.
Acidre pointed to the level of detail in Madriaga’s supplemental affidavit, saying it would be difficult to fabricate.
“In fact, he gave too many details. It is impossible to fabricate such a statement. He narrated directly,” the lawmaker said.
Acidre also cautioned against allow-
On Friday, Tehran had declared the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas usually transits, open after a temporary ceasefire was agreed to halt Israel's war with Iran's ally Hezbollah in Lebanon.
That prompted elation in global markets and sent oil prices plunging, but Tehran reversed course after Trump insisted the US blockade of Iranian ports would continue until a final deal was struck.
"If America does not lift the blockade, traffic in the Strait of Hormuz will definitely be limited," Ghalibaf said.
He cited a speech about "tyrants" ransacking the world that he delivered in Cameroon on Thursday, saying that the remarks had been written well before Trump's "comment on myself and on the message of peace that I am promoting."
"And yet it was perceived as if I were trying to start a new debate with the president, which doesn't interest me at all," Leo said.
Leo had blasted "tyrants" while on a high-security visit to Cameroon's northwestern city of Bamenda, the epicenter of a nearly decade-long English-speaking separatist insurgency that has killed thousands.
The remarks were interpreted by the US media in particular as a reference to Trump, who said days before he was "not a big fan."
Trump's criticism came after the global leader of Catholics made a plea for an end to the conflict in the Middle East.
Third papal visit
Leo is the third pontiff to visit Angola, where around 44 percent of the population identifies as Catholic, after John Paul II in 1992 and Benedict XVI in 2009.
"There is a lot of suffering, a lot of poverty in Angola. I hope the pope will see with his own eyes the needs of the youth here," said Antonio Masaidi, a 33-year-old engineer.
On Sunday, Leo will celebrate a giant open-air mass in Kilamba on Luanda's outskirts.
In the afternoon, he will travel by helicopter to the village of Muxima, about 130 kilometers (80 miles) southeast of Luanda, home to a 16th-century church that has become one of southern Africa's most important pilgrimage sites.
On April 20, he is due to travel more than 800 kilometres from the capital to visit a retirement home in Saurimo and celebrate another mass before departing the following morning for Equatorial Guinea.AFP
firmed that Madriaga’s Toyota FJ Cruiser is part of its records.
Madriaga earlier claimed this specific vehicle was used to pick up duffel bags containing the Vice President’s confidential funds and deliver them to various locations in December 2022.
The locations included the Office of the Ombudsman parking lot in Quezon City; a site in San Pablo, Laguna; and a comedy bar in Quezon City, Madriaga testified in the House hearing last week.
“All vehicles mentioned in (his) affidavit, as bought and in the name of Mr.
ing political considerations—particularly those tied to the 2028 elections—to influence the impeachment process.
“The impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte must be resolved based on evidence and accountability, and not on political calculations,” he said.
• Ridon said a final ruling by the Commission on Audit (COA) ordering the Vice President to personally return P73.287 million in confidential funds marks a shift from institutional accountability to direct personal liability.
During the committee’s April 14 hearing, officials confirmed COA had denied the appeal filed by Duterte and other officials of the Office of the Vice President (OVP) over the disallowed spending.
“It is not the OVP that is being required to return the money. COA was asking individual personalities who should return,” Ridon said.
“It is VP Sara, the special disbursement officer and the chief accountant… the three of them have the obligation to return the money,” he added.
Ridon stressed that the liability is personal rather than institutional.
“There is personal liability. If there is
Trump accused Iran of getting "a little cute" with its recent moves and warned Tehran not to try to "blackmail" Washington by flip-flopping on the strait.
"We have very good conversations going on," the president told reporters at the White House, adding that the United States was "taking a tough stand".
'Targeted'
Iran's Revolutionary Guards warned that any attempt to pass through the strait without permission "will be considered cooperation with the enemy, and the offending vessel
Diesel...
From A1
She gave assurance that the government continues to look for solutions to help those affected by the crisis.
Garin also lauded Marcos for issuing Executive Order 110 which declared an energy emergency due to Middle East tensions, enabling government intervention in the oil industry.
“Although ensuring consistent and stable supply of fuel is primary, price intervention closely follows. Under regular circumstances, by law, price setting of oil prices cannot be done by the government," Garin said.
"However, the President announcing the minimum rollbacks is exactly that. A statement to the oil companies to implement such is clearly price intervention," she said.
“Hence, thank you Mr. President for issuing the EO, for triggering the emergency powers and for dictating the minimum rollback for the past weeks,"
From A1
The vegetables were sourced directly from various Farmers’ Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs) in Mankayan, Benguet. To overcome logistical challenges posed by high transport costs and the volume of produce, DA-CAR adopted a multiagency approach, coordinating with regional line agencies for the use of transport vehicles.
For this activity, the Department of Public Works and Highways-CAR lent two dump trucks in addition to three DA-CAR Kadiwa trucks. The vegetables were hauled and transported directly to Cubao on April 17.
The sharing of government transport vehicles resulted from DACAR’s coordination with the Office of the Civil Defense-CAR, head
Madriaga and his son, are in the LTO records,” Ridon said. Seven of eight other vehicles currently listed under Madriaga’s name in LTO records, however, were not registered, the lawmaker said. In his supplemental affidavit, Madriaga claimed the former president gave him ₱25 million in 2021 to purchase high-end motorcycles for Sara Duterte’s use while she was in Metro Manila.
He also said he bought ordinary motorcycles for the operations of his group,
a notice of disallowance, and the COA finding has been final, the obligation to return the fund is already personal,” he said.
Ridon said the impeachment proceedings will move forward alongside pending criminal and administrative complaints before the Office of the Ombudsman, as well as the obligation to return the disallowed funds.
He stressed that Duterte cannot selectively engage with proceedings across different constitutional bodies, noting that each process carries distinct legal consequences.
The impeachment complaints accuse Duterte of betrayal of public trust and possible constitutional violations.
Among the allegations are irregularities in the use of confidential and intelligence funds under the OVP and the Department of Education during her tenure as education secretary, as well as reported inconsistencies in her asset declarations and alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and then-Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez.
Madriaga affirmed under oath his affidavit detailing the alleged handling
will be targeted".
A handful of oil and gas tankers crossed the strait early on Saturday during the brief reopening, tracking data showed, but others retreated and hardly any vessels were crossing by the late afternoon.
On Sunday morning, the entrance to the Gulf appeared to be at a standstill, with tracking data showing the strait itself empty of shipping.
The day before, a trio of incidents demonstrated the dangers of any attempted crossing.
A UK maritime security agency
she added.
"In times of emergency, a marketdriven deregulated industry delivering public services should be subject to a certain degree of regulation. Hopefully, next will be legislative reforms.”
Garin noted that under the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act of 1998, the government ensures a competitive landscape and monitors for fair play, while private companies set prices based on replacement costs—a mechanism intended to ensure fuel remains available nationwide.
“While we remain tied to global market volatility as net importers, we are aggressively pursuing local exploration to reduce dependence and shield the country from external shocks,” she said.
Garin admitted that high fuel costs are a challenge the government is actively addressing. “In the short-term, we are committed to transparency to support the formulation of relief programs, while moving toward total energy security in the long-term,” she said.
of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, which requested logistics assistance from other government agencies such as the DPWH.
“The shared transport system allowed for the swift movement of our agricultural products. This collaboration highlights the intensified efforts of the agency to ensure that the surplus of perishable highland vegetables reaches markets where they are needed most, preventing potential spoilage and financial loss for local farmers,” said DA-CAR Regional Executive Director Jennilyn M. Dawayan. DA-CAR, through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division, continues to facilitate marketing linkages while strengthening partnerships with other government agencies to assist local farmers and stakeholders.
calling its chances of passing “very slim.” He also warned that renouncing Filipino citizenship could lead to legal complications, including the loss of property rights in the Philippines.
Inday Sara Is My President (ISIP) Pilipinas, which supported Duterte’s planned 2022 presidential bid. Madriaga said he spent ₱4.5 million on two 2021 Harley-Davidson motorcycles from a Greenhills dealership, registering them under his son’s name. He also bought two 2021 Ducati motorcycles from a dealership in Katipunan, Quezon City—one costing ₱3.5 million and the other ₱2.3 million— along with ₱500,000 worth of accessories. These were registered under his name, he added.
and movement of confidential funds linked to the Vice President.
Acidre said Madriaga’s account was strengthened by his close working relationship with Duterte and her father, the former President, which he said gave the witness direct knowledge of the transactions he described.
Madriaga also presented physical evidence, including checks, to support his claims, Acidre added.
He said the affidavit goes beyond general allegations and provides specific, traceable details, including descriptions of how cash was allegedly delivered and distributed and how certain expenditures were justified under confidential fund use.
According to Acidre, these assertions gain further weight when viewed alongside audit findings that flagged deficiencies in the documentation and justification of confidential fund spending. He also noted that Madriaga executed his statements under oath and submitted a waiver of bank secrecy, signaling readiness to have his claims scrutinized.
While the allegations remain subject to full legal examination, Acidre said the testimony should be taken seriously.
said the Revolutionary Guards fired at one tanker, while security intelligence firm Vanguard Tech reported the force had threatened to "destroy" an empty cruise ship that was fleeing the Gulf. In the third incident, the UK agency said it received a report of a vessel "being hit by an unknown projectile, which caused damage" to shipping containers but no fire.
The Indian foreign ministry said it had summoned the Iranian ambassador to lodge a protest over a "shooting incident" involving two Indian-flagged ships in the strait. AFP
PAGASA...
From A1
While most areas are under “extreme caution” today, Sangley Point in Cavite may fall under the “danger” classification, with a heat index of 42°C.
Meanwhile, most parts of the country, including Metro Manila, will continue to experience generally fair weather with chances of isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.
PAGASA also said a ridge of a highpressure area is extending over Northern Luzon, bringing partly cloudy to cloudy skies across the country.
The lowest temperature is expected at 20°C in Tuba, Benguet on Monday.
Metro Manila, as measured at the PAGASA Science Garden in Quezon City and NAIA in Pasay City, will also be under the “extreme caution” classification.
PAGASA’s Science Garden is expected to record a heat index of 38°C, while NAIA is expected to reach 39°C on both days.
Meanwhile, the world famous and UNESCO Heritage site Batad Rice Terraces was hit by a forest fire last April 18, according to a local government advisory.
Mt. Province, Benguet, and Ifugao also reported raging forest fires in recent weeks
“Batad would like to inform all tourist guides, as well as local and foreign tourists planning to visit Batad, that starting April 19, 2026, until further notice, the pathway from the Blue House down to Tappiya Falls will be temporarily closed,” the advisory stated.
This is due to the risk of falling rocks following the recent fire along the cliff leading to the falls, it added.
As an alternative, visitors may take the route via the Budyu Hanging Bridge, proceeding along the river going up to Tappiya Falls.
“All are advised to exercise extra caution and strictly follow safety guidelines,” the advisory read.
‘BKSE postponement unconstitutional’
By Ram Superable
SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian opposed the proposed postponement of the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, warning that another delay would be unconstitutional.
Senator Imee Marcos, however, backed the move on Sunday, saying the postponement would allow
the government to prioritize limited public funds amid economic strain caused by the oil and energy crisis.
“At a time when the country is confronted with serious economic challenges brought about by the oil crisis, prudence demands that we prioritize the allocation of limited public resources,” she said.
The lawmaker cited the Commission on Elections’ estimate of around P16 billion needed to prepare for and conduct the nationwide polls.
“This sum can be more urgently directed toward addressing the im-
mediate needs of our people, including rising fuel costs, food security, and essential public services,” she added.
Meanwhile, Gatchalian said another postponement would violate the Constitution and undermine democratic processes. He said the elections have already been delayed once and stressed that voters are expecting to elect their local leaders.
“The Supreme Court already said during our last suspension that it would be the last, and we can no longer suspend it because you are just making up any reason, as this ultimately leads to the loss of democracy,” Gatchalian reminded.
Earlier, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he is open to postponing the elections scheduled for Nov. 2 to conserve resources amid the Middle East crisis.
IN BRIEF
Manila advises mask use amid landfill smoke
THE Manila Health Department (MHD) advised Manila residents, particularly those from Districts 1 and 2 affected by lingering pollution from the Navotas Sanitary Landfill, to wear facemasks and limit prolonged outdoor exposure when possible.
MHD chief Dr. Grace Padilla said the advisory aims to protect residents from haze described as air polluted with fine smoke and dust particles from fire and ash, which may cause various health hazards when inhaled.
“We remind everyone to wear face masks as protection for your health. Thank you,” Padilla said, noting that polluted air may cause breathing difficulty, coughing, chest pain, eye irritation, and worsening of respiratory illnesses such as asthma and other lung diseases.
The advisory followed monitoring by four air quality stations under the Asia Blue Skies Project, which recorded “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” levels in Anda Circle, San Sebastian Residences, and Sta. Ana Hospital, while Puregold Tayuman registered “Very Unhealthy” air quality. Itchie G. Cabayan
Clark opens new picnic grounds for public
THE Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) on Saturday inaugurated the Clark Picnic Grounds, adding a new leisure destination for visitors within the Freeport zone.
CIAC president and CEO Jojit Alcazar said Phase 1 covers five hectares of the project’s nine-hectare development under the agency’s Urban Renewal and Heritage Conservation Program.
Located along Gil Puyat Avenue, the refurbished park features jogging and walking paths, recreational and wellness facilities, an amphitheater, playground, and picnic grove. Opening day activities included a flea market styled as a weekend bazaar, with food and non-food merchants and food trucks offering various products. The park is lined with century-old acacia trees that provide shade for outdoor gatherings. Othel V. Campos
Taguig police nab suspect, seize P342K shabu
OPERATIVES of the Taguig City Police Station arrested a high-value drug suspect and seized more than P342,000 worth of suspected shabu in
PH reaffirms World Bank pact to protect jobs
THE Philippine government reaffirmed its strong commitment to the World Bank in protecting jobs, reducing poverty, advancing climate action, and addressing inequality, especially as global tensions in the Middle East continue to pressure financing and economic stability.
“The Philippines is one with the Bank’s position to ensure that such agendas are sustained across political cycles, recognizing that they are fundamental in building prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable societies,” Secretary Frederick D. Go said during the EDS15 Constituency Meeting.
To better protect Filipinos from these risks, the government called for more timely and concrete support from the
Bank, particularly in strengthening crisis preparedness and disaster response. This includes ensuring the continued rollout of disaster risk financing programs that allow the country to quickly access funds during emergencies.
Go noted that rising global uncertainties, such as higher oil prices driven by geopolitical tensions, can affect everyday life by increasing the cost of goods, slowing investments, and straining government resources.
He also urged the Bank to streamline its processes for faster approval of crisis-related assistance, enabling the government to respond more quickly when disasters or economic shocks occur.
To sustain economic stability and support development programs, the Philip-
THE US Federal Bureau of Investigation is offering a $25,000 (P1.5 million) reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Filipino Austin Yatco, who allegedly uses the username “Hairy Lips” on YouTube and Discord.
The US District Court for the Eastern District of New York in Brooklyn issued a warrant for Yatco’s arrest in January after he was charged with conspiracy to produce child pornography and conspiracy to receive and distribute child pornography.
Yatco and his group, “Greggy’s Cult,” are accused of coercing minor victims into creating child sexual abuse material of themselves and then distributing it among members of the group and others.
Authorities said the case remains under investigation as law enforcement agencies continue efforts to locate and apprehend the suspect.
pines requested continued scaling up of financial support from the Bank, along with more affordable lending terms.
This would help ensure that critical investments, particularly those that create jobs and support vulnerable and upper-middle-income communities, can continue despite global challenges.
The government also called for expanded access to blended financing, combining loans with grants, guarantees, and technical assistance. These can help fund urgent needs, strengthen institutions, and support long-term development.
At the center of these efforts is the goal of creating more quality jobs for Filipinos, ensuring that economic growth translates into better opportuni-
ties and improved living conditions for families.
The EDS15 Meeting was chaired by Executive Director Marcos V. Chiliatto of Brazil. The constituency represents Brazil, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Haiti, Panama, the Philippines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago, and plays a key role in shaping decisions within the World Bank.
“The Philippines reaffirms its commitment to the World Bank’s core mission of promoting quality jobs, poverty reduction, climate action, and equity. Together, we move forward with coordinated action through timely support, adequate financing, and practical solutions as we navigate an uncertain global environment,” Go added.
By Rio N. Araja
tronics output, aimed at reducing US dependence on China-linked materials and supply routes,” it stated. The end-use reality cannot be ignored. Chips and advanced electronics are critical inputs not only for consumer products but also for missiles, drones, surveillance systems, targeting and communications infrastructure, and other
STAPLE. Watermelon is in
demand during the hot season, prized for its cooling effect and
water content, about 90% to 92% helping prevent dehydration amid extreme heat. Edd Castro
BEATING THE HEAT. Children in Barangay Payao, Catbalogan City, Western Samar cool off as summer temperatures rise. Revoli Cortez
EARTH DAY CLEANUP. Members of the Earth Island Institute Asia Pacific conduct a coastal cleanup during pre–Earth Day environmental activities at the Las Piñas–Parañaque Wetland Park on April 19. Norman Cruz
OPINION
Tale
“TALE as old as time, tune as old as song…” starts the theme from Beauty and the Beast.
That is where the similarity ends, for while beauty found later that beast was a prince, and a love story was developed in scenic Riquewihr and Eguisheim in Alsace, the latest tale unveiled in the HoR fandango has become another epic battle between the Diehard Duterte Haters (DDH) and the Diehard Duterte Supporters (DDS).
For now, we are witnessing with glee the antics of the DDH, like the display of Mary Grace shopping bags and legislators munching on Piattos, versus the way the DDS are ripping apart the tale of the crying jailbird who was given his five hours of national fame by the Bitrics committee.
It’s a tale as old as time, spun out of whole cloth, originally scripted for the Senate of the 19th Congress, had not then SP Chiz Escudero defined “forthwith” as “for later release.” Now the script has a supplement, updated for the one-year gap. I’ve seen this before, I thought, while watching the recitation of the supplemental affidavit of Ramil Madriaga y Lagonoy, the detained kidnapper who claimed to be chummy-chummy with (wow, ha!) Rodrigo Roa Duterte in his prime and Inday Sara Zimmerman Duterte. I remembered the “crying lady,” Rebecca Quijano, who gave the lie to the tale spread by the generals of the dictator that Ninoy Aquino was shot by Rolando Galman on Aug. 21, 1983. She saw with her own eyes from the China Airlines plane window that the bullet which killed Ninoy came from a soldier on the staircase and told the truth.
So different was the script prepared for Madriaga, now amplified over media by his lawyer Palad who happens to be the cousin of a shady PR practitioner hired by various high-profile but failed politicians.
I recall how a coterie of “witnesses” like Ador Mawanay and Kit Mateo, Rosebud and other characters were able to hoodwink Victor Corpus, in a grand conspiracy to demolish one Panfilo Lacson, then suspected of harboring presidential ambitions for 2004, against the acting president “coronated” (yes, it’s wrong grammar, but many politicians still use it) by CJ Hilario Davide in 2001.
Serendipitously, Lacson, now Senate President Pro-tempore, will sit as one of the judges in the trial of Vice-President Sara, if the HoR is able to gather 106 signatures in the articles of impeachment that the Justice Committee is trying mighty hard to make believable.
The circumstances in the Feb. 5, 2025 articles signed within a few hours by 215 congressmen no longer obtain. The most criminal budget in history had just been
passed, and the promises of projects made signing easy.
But the 2026 budget is supposedly lean and mean, and under the prevailing economic dislocation, promises of pork are no longer as believable. I wonder how Sen. Lacson would have treated the supplemental affidavit and the dramatic tale-telling of Madriaga if the HoR star witness was presented before his Blue Ribbon.
Would he have recalled how he was once the victim of like characters from 2001 to 2004?
The Philippine Deep State is terrified at the prospect of yet another Duterte presidency
Simple-minded “utaw” from the “naked” alleys of Tondo now ask: Why do our legislators ignore ex-Marines who were eyewitnesses to the plunder of the century as “kargadores” of “basura,” while they regale the tale of this detained “kidnapper” who claims to have hobnobbed with the high and mighty not as spectator, but as “trusted lieutenant”?
Tell you what, I suspect (and my suspicions have been proven right many times in our au courant political milieu), that the same hotshot lawyers who framed Lacson’s demolition 24 years ago are at it again. They provided the script (complete with “rehearsals”) for the 2024 HoR committee inquisitions in aid of pre-planned Duterte demolition. They are the same scriptwriters and directors behind the resurrection of Madriaga from the bowels of jail.
Aided and abetted by collaborating certified DDH and the Left, these hotshot lawyers have always fancied themselves as the ultimate Philippine “kingmakers” in service to the Philippine version of America’s “Deep State.”
The Philippine Deep State is terrified at the prospect of yet another Duterte presidency. Still more terrifying to them is that they have yet to discover a “winnable” challenger for 2028.
So the only way is to destroy Inday Sara, now na! The magic 16 in the Senate is hard to get by.
But just as whom the gods wish to destroy, they first make mad, the plotters trotted out testimony shot full with holes, with ordinary citizens belying Madriaga’s tale by first person accounts.
And now comes Zaldy from the cold.
But that’s another story.
Japan’s next step, and ours
SOME decisions are measured not only by what they change at home, but by what they signal abroad. Japan’s expected move to ease long-standing restrictions on defense equipment transfers is one such decision.
It reflects a clear recognition that peace and stability in today’s Indo-Pacific require deeper cooperation among trusted partners. It also shows Japan’s readiness to take on a more active role in upholding a rules-based regional order. The strategic significance of that shift lies in its potential to deepen regional cooperation and strengthen collective security.
In the West Philippine Sea, maritime confrontations, dangerous maneuvers, and persistent harassment at sea are no longer isolated incidents.
They are constant reminders that our sovereignty must be defended not only through diplomacy, but through presence, readiness, and capable institutions.
This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award, a landmark victory that affirmed the Philippines’ maritime rights under international law and rejected China’s excessive claims as baseless. That ruling remains one of the country’s proudest diplomatic achievements. It affirmed the legal foundations of the Philippines’ position and reinforced the principle that maritime disputes must be governed by international law, not unilateral aggression. But a decade later, the hard lesson is
clear: legal victories must be sustained by practical capability. Rights must be upheld. Waters must be monitored. Fishermen must be protected. Maritime incidents must be managed with discipline, confidence, and transparency.
A ruling can establish legitimacy, but it still takes capable nations and dependable partners to uphold it in the real world.
This is where Japan’s policy shift carries real value.
The strategic significance of that shift lies in its potential to deepen regional cooperation and strengthen collective security
Japan has long shown what reliable partnership looks like. Its support has been consistently meaningful. Patrol vessels for the Philippine Coast Guard, surveillance assistance, development cooperation, and steady diplomatic backing have all strengthened Philippine resilience.
Now, by expanding the scope for defense cooperation, Japan is creating new opportunities for countries like the
DThe macho way
AVAO City Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte has challenged his sister’s former aide, Ramil Madriaga, to a fistfight. In the latter’s affidavit read aloud last week at the House of Representatives, Madriaga said former President Rodrigo Duterte saw Sebastian as “bading.” Apparently, Vice President Sara, is the old man’s favorite.
Madriaga was a resource person during the House proceedings tackling the impeachment of the Vice President. He confessed to being a bagman and to having huge amounts of money deposited in accounts created for him.
Last year, Sebastian also challenged then-National Capital Region Police Office Chief Nicolas Torre III to a brawl. General Torre had earlier arrested the former President upon returning to the Philippines. Duterte was sent to The Hague that same evening.
Torre accepted the challenge and turned the match into a charity event, as the scheduled fight took place just a few days after the devastation of a series of storms Crising, Dante, and Emong. The hype raised more than P20 million in cash and relief goods,
turned over to the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Torre publicized his preparations for the match. Ultimately, Sebastian Duterte was a no-show, claiming a prior commitment. Torre reaped victory by default.
—“—
All brawl and not much else
And now Digong’s son is at it again, wanting to settle scores not by calm, logical debate or a legal proceeding, but the macho way.
Madriaga, now 58 and detained for a separate charge in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City, accepted
By Jimbo Owen Gulle
THE expected testimony of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Roberto Bernardo is set to bring a critical legal issue to the forefront of the ongoing flood control cases: whether a figure repeatedly identified in court as central to the alleged scheme can qualify as a state witness.
Bernardo is scheduled to take the stand before the Sandiganbayan Third Division under a grant of immunity—a move that has drawn scrutiny, given the long-standing rule that a state witness must not be the most guilty among those charged.
His appearance on Thursday, April 23, is expected to test not only the strength of the prosecution’s case but also the application of this legal standard.
The cases stem from alleged irregularities in flood control projects implemented across multiple regions, from Central Luzon to Mindanao, involving billions of pesos in public funds.
Despite the scale of spending, questions persist over the actual delivery and effectiveness of these projects.
Early hearings, including testimonies and affidavits, have pointed to a pattern of centralized direction in project implementation.
Across different regions, similar accounts suggest that key decisions and fund movements were not independently made but instead flowed through a common point of authority.
Based on court records so far, that point has frequently been identified as Bernardo.
His name has surfaced repeatedly in witness accounts—not merely as a participant, but as a coordinating figure to whom funds were allegedly transferred.
Philippines to build capability faster and more effectively.
This is not simply about acquiring equipment. It is about building systems that work together. Shared platforms improve coordination. Compatible technologies strengthen joint operations. Reliable maintenance and logistics make capabilities sustainable over time.
For the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), this could provide a timely boost to modernization efforts.
AFP modernization has advanced steadily in recent years, but the work must continue to strengthen maritime domain awareness, coastal defense, mobility, and sustainment. Japan’s policy shift can help widen access to proven systems, technical expertise, training, and long-term support.
That kind of cooperation matters because modernization is not measured only by what is purchased. It is measured by what can be deployed, maintained, integrated, and relied upon when needed most.
Japan’s strengths are particularly rel-
the challenge. “I’m so honored to be challenged by a former presidential son into a fistfight,” he said through his lawyer, even as he suggested Duterte, 38, challenge someone his own age and height. This fascination with settling matters through a brawl is commonplace as it is amusing. It is commonplace because, for all the progressive thinking we claim to have developed, macho culture prevails. He who is unabashedly male – virile, loud, irreverent, and intrepid – reigns supreme. Being cerebral or sensitive is frowned upon. Homosexuality is laughed at, even derided. Conquests, of women, or industries, or constituencies, are the ultimate measure of power. Thus, to be macho is what many men try to project, whether or not these standards should be there in the first place, and whether or not they fit these standards heaped upon us by society.
We say do away with making such challenges, and even accepting such challenges in the first place. Engage instead in a battle of true toughness -- wits and intelligence and uprightness. And let those bereft of these be exposed for the losers that they are.
‘Most guilty’ rule in focus
This was highlighted in the testimony of former DPWH Region III district engineer Henry Alcantara, who told the antigraft court he turned over approximately P1.8 billion in flood control funds to Bernardo. Under questioning, however, Alcantara admitted he had no personal knowledge or documentation showing where the funds ultimately went.
While this may be seen as cooperation, it also underscores his acknowledged role in the transactions under scrutiny
He also acknowledged that many of his actions were based on assurances attributed to Bernardo rather than on verified records or direct oversight—an admission that prompted pointed questions from the bench about the absence of a clear audit trail.
During a bail hearing, Associate Justice Ronald Moreno underscored Bernardo’s apparent centrality to the prosecution’s narrative, even remarking on his perceived dominance in the scheme. The court also raised the possibility that subordinate officials may have acted largely on Bernardo’s instructions without independent validation. These developments have sharpened scrutiny of the prosecution’s decision to designate Bernardo as a state witness. While allowed under the Rules of Court,
evant to the Philippines. As an island nation with deep expertise in maritime security, disaster response, surveillance, and advanced manufacturing, Japan offers capabilities that align closely with Philippine requirements. There is also a larger strategic point. No country today secures itself alone. Regional stability increasingly depends on partnerships among nations that value sovereignty, lawful conduct, and sustained peace that enables prosperity. Japan’s willingness to do more should be welcomed in that light. Responsible capability among like-minded states is not a threat to peace. It is what helps preserve it. Some will continue to frame every security initiative as escalation. But passivity has costs. Weakness invites pressure. Capability, when exercised responsibly, creates space for diplomacy and reduces the risk of dangerous miscalculation.
The Philippines does not need confrontation. It needs credible capacity, calm resolve, and trusted friends.
such a designation is subject to strict conditions, including that the witness must not appear to be the principal offender. Complicating matters are reports that Bernardo has executed multiple affidavits since his initial appearance in Senate proceedings, with noted inconsistencies among them. These discrepancies are expected to be examined in assessing the credibility and weight of his testimony. Bernardo has also reportedly committed to return up to P290 million to the government as part of an arrangement linked to his discharge as an accused.
While this may be seen as cooperation, it also underscores his acknowledged role in the transactions under scrutiny.
Taken together—his repeated identification in testimonies, the scale of funds allegedly routed through him, and the conditions of his immunity—these factors have intensified debate over whether his role fits that of a qualifying state witness or that of a principal actor. As Bernardo prepares to testify, the Sandiganbayan is expected to weigh not only the substance of his statements but also the implications of relying on testimony from a figure so deeply embedded in the alleged scheme.
In a case where accountability and credibility are closely intertwined, the proceedings may ultimately hinge on whether Bernardo’s testimony clarifies the alleged anomalies—or further complicates the question of who bears the greatest responsibility.
(Jimbo Owen Gulle is the former News Editor of Manila Standard, where he started his journalistic career as a sportswriter over three decades ago. He continues to contribute articles to the Standard and other publications while working as a freelance editor and media consultant.)
Japan’s upcoming decision offers all three.
It also sends a message that should be appreciated: the Philippines is seen as a partner worth investing in, worth supporting, and worth standing with in defense of a stable regional order. That confidence should be met with seriousness on our side. It means aligning modernization priorities, improving the country’s defense systems, and ensuring that every new partnership delivers real capability for the Filipino people.
Ten years after the arbitral ruling, the Philippines enters this new chapter with stronger footing than many assume. We have legal standing, wider international support, and trusted partners ready to help preserve regional stability. Japan’s next step is a welcome sign that cooperation among principled nations still matters.
If we respond with clear priorities and steady purpose, this will help shape a safer, stronger, and more secure future for the Philippines and the region.
MONDAY, APRIL 20, 2026 mst.daydesk@gmail.com
IN BRIEF
Peru presidential vote results delayed
LIMA – Results from the first round of Peru’s presidential election won’t be released until mid-May, an official said Saturday, after a chaotic vote leading to what appeared to be a tight race.
“We expect to have the presidential results, which is what we need to determine the runoff candidates, by around midMay,” said Yessica Clavijo, secretary general of the National Jury of Elections (JNE) -- Peru’s highest electoral justice authority -- on radio broadcaster RPP. With 93.4 percent of ballots counted from last Sunday’s election, right-wing candidate Keiko Fujimori was leading with 17 percent.
The top two candidates go to a runoff election, and a close race has emerged for a spot in the next round between leftist Roberto Sanchez, who received 12 percent of the vote, and ultra-conservative Rafael Lopez Aliaga, with 11.9 percent.
The gap between the two increased slightly Saturday to 13,600 votes.
Clavijo attributed the slow vote count to the review of more than 15,000 challenged ballots, about 30 percent of which involve the presidential vote and the remainder related to legislative elections. AFP
AI ‘agent’ fever comes with security threats
PARIS – Artificial intelligence “agents” promise to save users time and energy by automating tasks, but the growing power of systems like OpenClaw is setting cybersecurity experts on edge.
Powered by a wave of hype, OpenClaw today claims more than three million users worldwide.
The system allows users to create socalled agents, tools based on a large language model (LLM) like OpenAI’s ChatGPT or Anthropic’s Claude that can carry out online tasks.
“We’ve moved from an AI you could talk with via a chatbot to an agentic AI, which can take action... the threat and the risks are definitely much greater,” said Yazid Akadiri, principal solutions architect at Elastic France, an IT security company. In an article titled “Agents of Chaos” that has yet to be peer-reviewed, a 20-strong team of researchers studied the behaviour of six AI agents created with OpenClaw. AFP
‘No regret gifting Nobel prize to Trump’ MADRID – Venezuela’s opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said during the weekend she had “no regrets” about symbolically handing over her Nobel Peace Prize to US President Donald Trump in January.
“There is a leader in the world, a head of state in the world who risked the lives of his country’s citizens for Venezuela’s freedom,” she told a news conference in Madrid.
Machado presented her Nobel prize to Trump when she met him in the White House just two weeks after he ordered US forces to attack Caracas and snatch Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.
Trump, who has long coveted the award, is currently embroiled in the Middle East war he started with his ally, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with airstrikes on Iran at the end of February. The Norwegian Nobel Committee, which awards the peace prize, made clear after Machado handed her 2025 Nobel medal to Trump that the actual honour it represents “cannot be revoked, shared, or transferred to others”. AFP
NoKor fires ballistic missiles
SEOUL – North Korea test-fired multiple shortrange ballistic missiles on Sunday, South Korea’s military said, the latest in a recent flurry of launches by the nuclear-armed state.
The Sunday launches add to a series of weapons tests Pyongyang has carried out in recent weeks, including ballistic missiles, anti-warship cruise missiles and cluster munitions.
“Our military detected several shortrange ballistic missiles fired into the East Sea from the Sinpo area of North Korea at around 6:10 am,” South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said, referring to a body of water also known as the Sea of Japan.
“The missiles flew approximately 140 kilometers, and South Korean and US
intelligence authorities are conducting a detailed analysis of their exact specifications,” it added.
Seoul was maintaining a “firm combined defense posture” with its security ally the United States, which stations about 28,000 troops in the South to help it defend against military threats from the North, and will “respond overwhelmingly to any provocation”, it said.
South Korea’s presidential office said it held an emergency security meeting over the launches.
Analysts said the tests signaled Pyongyang’s latest rejection of attempts by Seoul to repair strained ties.
Among them was an expression of regret from Seoul over civilian drone incursions into the North in January, a gesture initially described as “very fortunate and wise behavior” by Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of the North Korean leader. But this month, a senior North Korean official described the South as “the enemy state most hostile” to Pyongyang, reviving a label previously used by leader Kim Jong Un. North Korea is subject to multiple United Nations sanctions banning its nuclear weapons development and use of ballistic missile technology, restrictions
China to rein in risks from AI ‘digital humans’
BEIJING – After her father died from cancer, Zhang Xinyu had an artificial intelligence avatar made that looks and sounds just like him, part of a growing “digital human” industry that China is moving to govern more tightly. Videos featuring AI digital humans are ubiquitous on Chinese social media, with their uncanny features and smooth, dexterous motions often used to tout products.
The nation’s cyberspace regulator issued draft rules this month on how these avatars are developed and deployed -seeking to stop them harming children,
it has repeatedly flouted. “Pyongyang must immediately halt its successive missile provocations that are heightening tensions,” Seoul’s defense ministry said in a statement. The North should “actively engage in the South Korean government’s efforts to establish peace”, it added. Earlier in April, Kim Jong Un oversaw tests of strategic cruise missiles launched from a naval warship, with official photos showing him watching the firings flanked by military officials. Those tests were carried out from the Choe Hyon, one of two 5,000-ton destroyers in the North’s arsenal, both launched last year as Kim Jong Un seeks to ramp up the country’s naval capabilities. AFP
Australian soldier charged vows to clear his name Indonesia
SYDNEY – An Australian former soldier charged with committing war crimes in Afghanistan vowed on Sunday to clear his name, saying he had never “run from a fight” in his first public comments since his arrest.
“For the past 10 years, my family and I have been subject to a campaign to convince Australians that I’ve acted improperly in my service in Afghanistan,” Ben Roberts-Smith told journalists in Gold Coast.
“I categorically deny all of these allegations, and while I would have preferred these charges not be brought, I will be taking this opportunity to finally clear my name,” he said. Roberts-Smith was granted bail on Friday after a high-profile arrest on five counts of “war crime -- murder”. Police alleged he was complicit in a string of unlawful killings between 2009 and 2012.
The Victoria Cross recipient has denied all the charges. He was released from prison on Friday evening after 10 days behind bars.
“I’m proud of my service in Afghanistan. While I was there, I always acted within my values,” he said on Sunday.
Australia’s most decorated living soldier met Queen Elizabeth II, had his portrait hung at the Australian War Museum and was even honored as the nation’s “father of the year”.
But the war hero’s reputation was called into question in 2018, when a series of news reports linked him to the alleged murder of unarmed Afghan prisoners by Australian troops. AFP
threatening social stability or being created to resemble someone without their consent.
Zhang, 47, approached the company Super Brain two years ago, feeling depressed and lonely following her bereavement. She can now converse online with her father’s avatar, something that made her feel “fully recharged in an instant and filled with motivation once again,” she told AFP.
Some friends worried Zhang would become too immersed in the virtual world and “never be able to move on”, calling it a
6 killed, 14 hurt after gunman opens fire in Ukrainian capital
KYIV – Six people were killed in Kyiv on Saturday after a gunman opened fire and took hostages at a supermarket in the Ukrainian capital before being killed during an arrest attempt, officials said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that at least 14 people were hospitalized with wounds and trauma after the shooting and hostage-taking, which took place in a residential district in the city’s south.
“He was holding hostages and, unfortunately, killed one of them. He killed four people right on the street. Another woman died in the hospital from severe injuries,” Zelenskyy said on social media, adding that four hostages from the supermarket “have been rescued.”
“The attacker has been eliminated,” he said, offering condolences to the victims’ families.
An AFP reporter saw the supermarket
-- which had blood stains on its shop window -- cordoned off by a heavy security presence, with officers wearing bulletproof vests and crime investigators arriving at the scene.
An employee of the supermarket, Tetyana, told AFP that she had heard sounds “in the store, like champagne being popped or balloons bursting several times. Then the customers started shouting, ‘Run!’”.
“There’s a spot where you can hide behind the refrigerators, and we ran there. I heard a man moaning,” she recounted, her voice trembling.
Footage posted by the UNIAN news agency, which AFP was unable to immediately verify, showed a man carrying a gun and shooting at a person from close range near a block of flats.
The assailant’s motive was not immediately known. AFP
form of “false comfort,” she added.
“But even if the comfort itself is simulated, the love behind it is real,” said Zhang, who is based in Liaoning province.
State news agency Xinhua reported last year that the country’s digital human industry was worth around 4.1 billion yuan ($600 million) in 2024, having grown a huge 85 percent year-on-year.
Chinese governance of new digital technologies has always followed the logic of “develop first, then regulate, and perfect in the process”, said Marina Zhang, from the University of Technology Sydney. AFP
JAKARTA – Indonesia’s National Commission on Human Rights said Sunday it was investigating the killings of 12 civilians, including women and children, in a military operation in the restive easternmost Papua region. The commission, abbreviated as Komnas HAM, said at least 12 civilians died of gunshot wounds in “an enforcement operation” by the armed forces against the TPNPB-OPM rebel group in the central Papuan village of Kembru on Tuesday.
Several other people were wounded. The commission was “conducting monitoring”, chairwoman Anis Hidayah told AFP Sunday.
She added there was a “strong suspicion” that Indonesian soldiers were responsible.
The military did not respond to a request for comment.
Local media reported the military’s Habema task force in Papua as saying its forces had killed four members of the independence guerrilla movement in an “armed contact” in Kembru, and that they are investigating a report of a fatal shooting that killed a child in another village.
Komnas-HAM, which is part of the Indonesian state system but functions independently, said any operation that resulted in civilian casualties “cannot be justified on any grounds”.
“Any form of attack against civilians, whether occurring in situations of war or otherwise, and whether perpetrated by state or non-state actors, constitutes a violation of human rights and international humanitarian law,” the commission said in a statement Saturday.
It urged restraint from all sides and called on the military to re-evaluate its operations against Papuan rebels.
Papua, which shares its main island with Papua New Guinea, is a former Dutch colony that declared independence in 1961. AFP
LUANDA, Angola – Pope Leo XIV will hold a giant open-air mass and visit one of southern Africa’s holiest Christian sites Sunday on the first full day of a visit to Angola. Leo arrived in the Portuguese-speaking nation on Saturday for the third leg of a four-nation tour of the continent. At a meeting with officials including President Joao Lourenco, he spoke out against the “suffering” and social and environmental “disasters” caused by the rampant exploitation of natural resources. The remarks continued a theme of his 11-day tour during which he has delivered pointed warnings against corruption and the plunder of the continent’s resources.
The trip started in Algeria on Monday, overshadowed by a war of words with President Donald Trump. The US president criticized the American pope as “weak” last weekend after he called for an end to the conflict in the Middle East. Leo said on the plane from Cameroon to Angola on Saturday that he regretted that some of his comments during his African visit had been interpreted as a response to Trump’s jibes. He used as an example a reference to “tyrants” during one of his addresses in Cameroon, saying this speech had been written well before Trump’s remarks. It is “not in my interest at all” to debate the US leader, he told journalists. AFP
‘ENEMY STATE.’ People watch a television screen showing a news broadcast with file footage of a North Korean missile test, at a train station in Seoul on Sunday. North Korea test-fired multiple ballistic missiles on Sunday, South Korea’s military said, the latest in a recent flurry of launches by the nuclear-armed
BLOOD
BLOODLETTING.
The University of Perpetual Help System
Dalta -Alumni
A airs O ce, in collaboration with Perpetual Help Medical Center and JCi, spearheads the 15th edition of its ‘Dugo ko, Buhay mo Bloodletting Program’ at the Ernesto Palanca Crisostomo Hall of the Las Piñas City campus, under the auspices of the Philippine
headed by chairman
Let DOE-DOJ task force probe malpractices in oil sector—solon
By Rio N. Araja
DESPITE the deregulation of the oil industry, the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) must retain sufficient authority to investigate and act against unreasonable increases in petroleum prices, House Minority Leader and 4Ps party-list Rep. Marcelino Libanan said on Sunday.
“Under the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Law of 1998, a DOE-DOJ Task Force was established with specific investigative and enforcement powers to address excessive and unjustified increases in petroleum product prices,” Libanan said.
“Through this task force, the two departments must take decisive and forceful action to safe-
DENR flashes green light to Cebu hillside dev’t project
THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau in Region 7 has lifted its suspension order against the controversial Monterrazas de Cebu development project.
The order was issued after the project proponent, Mont Property Group Inc., settled its penalties and implemented corrective measures required under the environmental compliance certificate (ECC).
EMB Region 7 director John Edward Ang explained that the suspension was lifted on the basis of documented remedial works, compliance milestones and settlement of penalties imposed under Presidential Decree 1586 for violation of ECC conditions.
The project proponent had reportedly constructed and enhanced 23 detention ponds with a combined capacity of approximately 52,468 cubic meters, he pointed out.
The ponds were engineered to contain and regulate surface runoff, reduce peak flows and help mitigate potential flooding impacts on downstream communities, he said, adding on-site inspections verified pond excavation, embankment stabilization, inlet and outlet control structures, sediment traps and site stabilization measures.
“EMB Region 7 recognizes the importance of timely remedial action to protect communities and the environment. The detention ponds and associated measures represent a meaningful step toward mitigating flood risk but continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure long-term effectiveness,” Ang noted.
Implemented key corrective actions included the construction and enhancement of 23 detention ponds strategically located across the development site to intercept surface runoff, establishment of approximately 52,468 cubic meters of detention capacity to hold rain run-off and prevent flooding on downstream areas, installation of inlet/outlet control structures and sediment traps to improve water quality and prolong the operational life of the detention system and site stabilization measures as vegetative cover and erosion control blankets to minimize soil loss. Rio N. Araja
guard consumers against potential pricing abuses, considering that we are now under a state of national energy emergency,” he added.
The lawmaker emphasized that “consumer protection must be paramount” amid the highly volatile global oil market.
“Filipino families should not be made to bear the
burden of unjustified fuel price increases, especially when global oil prices are already easing,” he added.
Under Republic Act 8479, the DOE-DOJ Task Force functions as an investigative and quasi-enforcement body that looks into potential overpricing on its own initiative.
It is expected to receive and evaluate complaints on oil pricing and possible collusion as well as recommend or initiate legal actions leading to enforcement.
Libanan cited Section 14 of the Oil Deregulation Law, stating that “any report from any person of an unreasonable rise in the prices of petroleum products shall be immediately acted upon” by the task force within 30 days.
Mishap involving PNP coaster under
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Me-
lencio Martatez Jr., on Sunday ordered an impartial investigation into a traffic accident along EDSA involving a government-issued police vehicle and a privately owned utility van to determine accountability amid questions of possible violation of standard operating procedure.
Nartatez said the investigators are looking into operational documents tied to the incident and the priority is to establish whether the vehicle was properly deployed for official duty at the time of the crash.
“We are verifying the trip ticket and dispatch orders now. If this was not an emergency or a legitimate operation, then it’s a clear violation of our deployment protocol. No special lanes for cops without official business. We will hold the driver and the supervisor accountable,” he said.
Based on initial investigation, a PNP-marked Toyota Coaster operating under the Libreng Sakay program and a civilian bus collided along EDSA northbound near Main Ave. Barangay Socorro in Quezon City on April 17.
Although the collision only caused minor property damage with no injuries reported, Nartatez directed an administrative review to determine the circumstances of the incident and check if proper protocols were followed.
“The marked vehicle is a symbol of service, not a VIP pass. The uniform is not a license to be the king of the road. I have directed all units to lead by example. If you violate traffic laws on EDSA, you face double the penalty—the fine from the MMDA and an administrative case from the PNP,” the. PNP chief said.
The PNP chief reiterated the organization’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and accountability, saying appropriate actions will be taken based on the findings.
He added that the probe will also look into command supervision and possible lapses in discipline within the unit involved.
“We are working hard to professionalize the ranks, and incidents like this pull us back. We understand the
scrutiny
Nartatez wants more aggressive anti-crime drive in Metro Manila
By Vince Lopez
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief
Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., on Sunday ordered a more aggressive crackdown on property crimes across Metro Manila to sustain the momentum the law enforcement in reducing overall street violence under the Safer Cities Initiative.
Nartatez issued the directive even as he lauded ground units for the successful rollout of the program.
Safer Cities led to a notable decrease in crimes against persons and a slight increase in crimes against property, he noted.
“The intensified police visibility and preemptive actions have delivered results in lowering crimes against persons. Now we will shift greater operational focus on property crimes to ensure balanced and sustained crime reduction,” Nartatez said.
PNP data showed that from March 28 to April 5, 2026 (pre-implementation period) and April 6 to April 14, 2026 (post-implementation period), there was a significant decline in crimes against persons.
The PNP said murder cases went down by 9.8 percent, from 91 to 82 cases, while homicide dropped by 39.3 percent, from 28 to 17.
On the other hand, the incidence of physical injury decreased by 22.7 percent, from 132 cases to 102, while the number of rape incidents also went down by 22.9 percent, from 96 to 74.
He commended unit commanders and personnel for their dedication and hard work.
“Your efforts are highly valued by the organization. The heightened police presence and operations have helped reduce street crimes and instill discipline among residents in urban areas,” Nartatez said.
agreed that the fast and immediate processing of the documents from verification to approval only took minutes and the DSWD staff were very accommodating. Minerva Newman
have resulted in further violations of campus press freedom.
“Student journalists often come into conflict with institutions that use their authority to quell free expression and censor the press. Threats and intimidation have become more pervasive, underscoring the need for stronger legal protections for campus journalists,” De Lima said.
“Although information today is disseminated through more advanced and accessible platforms like social media, student journalists continue to face harassment and censorship from school administrations, as well as reported cases of red-tagging and surveillance from state forces such as the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict,” she added. Rio N. Araja DSWD-7 pays out P74-m subsidies to trike drivers THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Region 7 has distributed a total of ₱74.2
NEW ROLE FOR EX-PNP CHIEF. Erstwhile top
cop-turned Cagayan governor Edgar Aglipay accepts the baton as host of next year’s Cagayan Valley Regional Athletic Association (CAVRAA) Meet, underscoring that ‘sports serve as a vital instrument in developing discipline, excellence, and responsibility among the youth.’ Jessica M. Bacud
CAMP JOHN HAY. The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) signs a 15-year lease agreement with Sophia Real Estate Executives and Development Corp. for the setting up of a themed café at the former American rest and recreation facility in Baguio City. Dave Leprozo
Red Cross
Richard Gordon. Dennis Abrina
public concern. This is not damage control; this is accountability in action. We act on facts, not on pressure. When the PNP makes a mistake, the PNP will also fix it,” Nartatez said. Vince Lopez
MONDAY, APRIL 20, 2026
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
Team PH
o to Sanya for Asian Beach meet
THE main bulk of the 101-strong Team Philippines flies to China today (Monday) two days ahead of the opening ceremony for the 6th Asian Beach Games that are returning after a 10-year hiatus on the popular resort island city of Sanya.
But anticipation on the opening ceremony at the Yasha Park Phase 1 Ring Theater where twotime world jiu-jitsu champion Annie Ramirez will be bearing the flag for Team Philippes during the parade of athletes is as high on the closing ceremony on April 30.
One of the highlights of the closing ceremony in the same venue that was supposed to host the games 10 years ago if the turnover for the Asian Beach Games’ host in 2028—Cebu City.
“It will be a highly-anticipated event for us as the next host of the Asian Beach Games,” said Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino \. “As host, we also anticipate a successful hosting, showcasing not only our athletes performance, but as importantly as host.”
Joining Tolentino in accepting the games’ colors are Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival and Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro.
Filipino athletes are entered in 3x3 basketball, open water swimming and water polo, aquathlon, beach athletics, beach handball, beach kabaddi, beach soccer, beach volleyball, beach wrestling, dragon boat, jiu-jitsu, sailing, sport climbing and teqball in Sanya.
Among the favorites for the medals besides Ramirez are another jujitsu standout, Kaila Napolis, and the women’s beach volleyball squad of Thailand Southeast Asian Games gold winner Sunny Villapando who will team up this time with Sofiah Pagara, Khyle Progella and Grydelle Matibag.
Also in the radar are the basketball 3x3 quartets and triathlon’s Raven Alcoseba and Erika Burgos in the women’s side and the men’s trio of Andrew Remolino, Inaki Lorbes and Matthew Hermosa.
The Philippines have so far won five gold, 10 silver and 35 bronze medals in the games that had its inaugurals in 2008 in Bali, followed by the 2010 games in Oman, 2012 in Haiyang (China) and 2014 in Phuket.
Eala seeks clay growth in loaded Madrid Open
By Jeremiah Sevilla
SEEKING to finally find her footing on the clay court, Alexandra Eala is set to compete in the Mutua Madrid Open 2026 scheduled on April 21 to May 3.
Eala, currently ranked No. 45 in the world, will go up against a tough field in the singles event of
the WTA 1000 tournament that features all the top 10 players, led by defending champion Aryna Sabalenka (No. 1), Elena Rybakina (No. 2), and Coco Gauff (No. 3).
This will be Eala’s second appearance in the Madrid Open, where she reached the round of 64 as a wild card last year after beating Viktoriya Tomova, 6-3, 6-2, in her debut before losing to then No. 2 Iga Swiatek, 6-4, 4-6, 2-6.
The opponent and exact schedule of the Filipina tennis star for her first match in this year’s Madrid Open tourney are still unknown as of writing, with the draw yet to be announced.
Bol Bol carries TNT, but Reyes seeks more from locals
BOL Bol has been unstoppable since his arrival in the PBA, but that dominance may be turning into a double-edged sword for TNT.
Head coach Chot Reyes pointed out the tendency of the local Tropang 5G players to rely heavily on their NBA-caliber import in carrying the team to victory.
“That’s the problem when you have a super import who can score at will. The locals have a tendency to watch him, and that’s not good for us,” said Reyes following Bol’s new PBA careerhigh 50-point explosion that helped TNT evade an upset axe from Titan Ultra for a 97-92 win in the Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup on Saturday at the Ynares Center in Montalban.
Bol, who is leading the league with 39.0 points per game, scored more than half of the Tropang 5G’s scoring output while Rey Nambatac was the only other player in double digits with 12 points.
Reyes’ concern was further magnified in the game against the Giant Risers, with Calvin Oftana
getting ejected in the first quarter due to a flagrant foul penalty two on Titan rookie Denver Omega and Roger Pogoy struggling from the field as he finished with only four points on a measly 2-of-8 shooting.
Jordan Heading, another usual offensive threat for the recent AllFilipino runners-up, was out due to an ankle sprain.
“We’re still trying to find that (scoring) balance. But like I said, for this game, without Jordan Heading and Calvin, then he (Bol) had to step up. But that should not be the way our game goes. We should be able to get better scoring from a lot more people,” stressed Reyes.
The 7-foot-3 beanpole unloaded 10 points in the Tropang 5G’s telling 12-0 run that gave them an 85-78 lead with 4:36 left in the payoff period after trailing 60-68 late in the third frame.
Bol also proved to be a tower of power on the defensive end, pulling down 17 rebounds and accounting for six of TNT’s seven blocks.
With another solid performance from
Regardless of her first matchup, Eala is surely eager to rebound from back-to-back early exits to start her clay season following a stellar run on the hard court that saw her reach a career-high ranking of No. 29. Eala crashed out in the first round of the Stuttgart Open after losing to Canada’s Leylah Fernandez, 1-6, 4-6, last week.
Prior to that, Eala suffered a 4-6, 5-7 defeat to Latvia’s Jelena Ostapenko in the round of 16 of the Linz Open. The Madrid Open is part of Eala’s buildup for the French Open, the clay court’s Grand Slam event set from May 24 to June 7.
Camiguin set for explosive triathlon debut with IRONMAN 5150
ATHLETES from 13 countries are set to converge on Northern Mindanao for a race unlike any other, as the inaugural IRONMAN 5150 Camiguin unfolds on May 3, bringing Olympic-distance triathlon action to an island famed for its raw beauty and volcanic edge. Known as the “Island Born of Fire” for having the highest concentration of volcanoes per square kilometer in the world, Camiguin will host an event of this scale for the first time, offering competitors a striking new race environment that blends challenge with scenery.
Preparations are in full swing, with the organizing Sunrise Events, Inc. (SEI) working closely with the provincial government led by Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo. The collaboration, reinforced in recent coordination meetings, underscores a shared commitment to delivering a world-class race experience. SEI president and managing director Princess Galura emphasized the importance of aligning operations with global standards while ensuring athlete safety, efficiency and overall race quality.
Beyond race execution, organizers are positioning Camiguin as an emerging hub
for sports tourism. The event forms part of the inaugural 5150 Triathlon Islands of the Philippines Series, a four-leg circuit designed to showcase some of the country’s most scenic island destinations through Olympicdistance racing.
The series successfully kicked off in Guimaras last month, with Bohol hosting the third leg on July 12 – also marking the 10th staging of its Olympic-distance race – before culminating on Sept. 20 at Samal Island in Davao City.
The initiative is backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, in partnership with the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Council and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, all aiming to position the Philippines as a premier destination for endurance sports.
Camiguin’s natural charm and relaxed atmosphere are expected to provide a unique racing backdrop, attracting around 300 participants from across the globe.
Leading the field is Filipino elite standout Bea Quiambao, fresh off her victory at the IRONMAN 70.3 Davao, alongside a competitive mix of local and international triathletes.
Lady Bullpups begin Shakey’s volley repeat bid
THRILLING action gets underway as a busy 12-match playdate banners the opening day of the fourth staging of the Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League (SGVIL) Rising Stars Cup on Monday at the La Salle Green Hills Gym. Division 1 defending champion National University-Nazareth School begins its repeat bid against King’s Montessori in Pool A, capping off the six pairings on Court 1 starting at 8 a.m. The Lady Bullpups enter the country’s biggest grassroots volleyball league, backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner and R and B Milk Tea, riding the momentum of their recent UAAP conquest. NUNS defeated Bacolod Tay Tung in a cardiac five-set decision in the winner-take-all finale last season behind the heroics of Season 3 MVP Sam Cantada, Best Opposite Spiker winner Harlyn Serneche, Jenelyn Jacob and Denesse Daylisan. But with the departure of the four gunners to the seniors rank, NUNS will rely on UAAP Season 88 MVP Diza Berayo, Jhayna Bulandres, setter Rain Navarro, Adelaine Agustin and Akeyla Bartolabac in its attempt to become the first-ever squad to win consecutive crowns in the competitive tournament featuring a record-setting 44 entries overall across two divisions. “What’s exciting about this year’s competition, aside from an expanded field with 20 teams in Division 1 and 24 in Division 2, is it’s unpredictable. May mga graduates na sa mga teams last year and this time matsachallenge ‘yung mga holdovers and mga bata na ipakita ang husay nila to help their respective teams,” said Dr. Ian Laurel, president of the league organizer Athletic Events and Sports Management, Inc. (ACES). Firing off on Court 1 is the
Camiguin Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo (third from left) pledges the province’s full support for the inaugural IRONMAN 5150 Camiguin. Joining him are (from left) Leonides Oclarit of the Provincial Planning and Development O ce, race director Julian Valencia, Sunrise Events, Inc. president Princess Galura, Provincial Tourism O cer Candice Borromeo-Dael, and SEI project director Farrah Legaspi.
Alexandra Eala of the Philippines is using the Madrid Open as part of her buildup for the French Open, the clay court’s Grand Slam event set from May 24 to June 7. AFP
the former Phoenix Suns standout, the Tropang 5G picked up their third hardearned victory in a row, joining idle Meralco at No. 4 and bolstering their playoff bid with a 5-2 record. Reyes, however, is hoping the
locals will step up as they head into the final stretch of their elimination round campaign, wherein they will face the likes of fellow playoff contenders Phoenix, Magnolia, and Ginebra. Jeremiah Sevilla
Bol Bol: Super import
February debt service hit P430.6b
P430.6 billion
Debt servicce in February 2026
P137.7 billion
Debt service in January 2026
P52.2 bilion
Debt service in February 2025
By Thony Rose Lesaca
HIGHER amortization payments pushed the government’s debt service to P430.644 billion in February 2026, Bureau of the Treasury data showed.
The figure represents a sharp increase from the P52.154 billion recorded a year earlier and surpassed the P137.669 billion logged in January.
Amortization payments surged to P381.713 billion from P3.709 billion. Domestic borrowing settlements accounted for P378.511 billion of the total, while external debt principal payments reached P3.202 billion.
Interest payments rose 1 percent to P48.931 billion from P48.445 billion a year ago. The government paid P37.081 billion in domestic interest, down 11.85 percent. This total included P19.784 billion for fixed rate
Treasury bonds, P11.952 billion for retail Treasury bonds, P4.634 billion for Treasury bills and P711 million
for other obligations. Foreign interest payments jumped 85.79 percent to P11.850 billion.
The government settled P37.081 billion in interest owed to domestic sources, down 11.85 percent from P42.067 billion last year. This included payments amounting to P4.634 billion for Treasury bills, P19.784 billion for fixed rate Treasury bonds, P11.952 billion for retail Treasury bonds and P711 million for other obligations.
Interest payments for foreign borrowings increased 85.79 percent to P11.850 billion from P6.378 billion in February 2025.
Data showed that total outstanding debt hit P18.16 trillion at the end of February, up 0.14 percent or P25.74 billion from the previous month.
Compared to February 2025, the debt stock rose 9.2 percent from P16.63 trillion.
The government continues to prioritize domestic financing to protect the debt profile from external volatility. Domestic obligations now comprise 68.7 percent of the total portfolio, reaching P12.48 trillion in February. The P154.39 billion monthly increase in domestic debt followed the issuance of P158.14 billion in new securities for development projects.
External debt fell 2.21 percent to P5.68 trillion as favorable exchange rate movements reduced the peso value of foreign-denominated obligations by P136.43 billion.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) urged the Philippines to use fiscal buffers efficiently and focus on targeted support measures amid economic risks.
The IMF’s April 2026 Fiscal Monitor projected general government debt will reach 60.2 percent of gross domestic product this year, up from 59.4 percent in 2025, before easing over the medium term.
DPWH secures P46.22b from DBM to fund infra projects
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released P46.22 billion to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to fund 1,743 infrastructure projects across the country.
The
need.
PH prioritizes high-value
jobs in BPO, technology and finance
FINANCE Secretary Frederick Go said the government is prioritizing job creation by attracting investments in high-value industries, signaling a shift toward more sophisticated sectors to drive economic growth.
Speaking at a panel during the IMFWorld Bank Spring Meetings on April 16, Go said that every reform aimed at drawing foreign and domestic capital serves the singular purpose of providing employment for millions of Filipinos.
He identified business process outsourcing, semiconductor manufacturing and renewable energy as the primary engines for the next wave of hiring.
The BPO is transitioning from basic services to higher-value fields including artificial intelligence, data analytics and IT-enabled services.
World Bank vice-president for Asia and Pacific Felipe Jaramillo lauded this evolution, suggesting other East Asian and Pacific nations follow the Philippine example of moving toward high-value
service exports. In manufacturing, Go pointed to the expansion of the semiconductor and electronics industry. He noted that global firms like Samsung are increasing investments in the country, which is expected to generate more positions in advanced manufacturing.
He cited the potential of the clean energy sector. He said the Philippines is leveraging its natural environment by increasing investments in wind, solar and geothermal projects. Go remarked that the country must harness its frequent typhoons for wind power, its abundant sunlight for solar energy and its volcanic geography for geothermal output.
International Finance Corporation economic and market research department director Paolo Mauro said that while a fastgrowing working-age population presents an opportunity, sustained employment depends on firm-led innovation and investment. Thony Rose Lesaca
The DBM approved 158 special allotment release orders (SAROs) for the funding on April 15, 2026. The allocation covers critical initiatives under the DPWH Asset Preservation Program, including preventive maintenance of national roads and the rehabilitation of existing road networks. Funding also supports the Network Development Program, which includes road widening and offcarriageway improvements and the Bridge Program for the retrofitting and widening of permanent bridges.
Among the key programs is the Davao City Bypass Construction Project, which received an approved allocation of P288.371 million for 2026.
DBM Secretary Rolly Toledo said the release reflects the administration’s commitment to implementing vital infrastructure without delay.
“With the clear order of the President, the implementation of projects that will speed up travel, strengthen the economy, and bring services to more communities will continue. Projects that directly contribute to people’s lives cannot be delayed,” Toledo said.
The DPWH said the projects underwent thorough evaluation and align with the president’s priorities for infrastructure development and socioeconomic growth.
“When the documents are complete and in order, we will not hesitate to release the funds. Because every day that the project is delayed, there are compatriots who have not benefited— and that is what we do not want to happen,” Toledo said.
BUFFER STOCK.
National Food Authority (NFA) loads rice shipments from NFA Occidental Mindoro bound for Cebu. Overseeing the operations is NFA administrator Larry Lacson. The shipment will be dispatched immediately to ensure a steady rice supply for regions in
AUDIT REFORMS. Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza meets on April 7, 2026 with Ambassador Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Manila to discuss tax administration reforms and areas for cooperation, particularly on key audit reform measures and updates on the BIR’s Digital Transformation (DX) Project.
Rethinking the living wage in the Philippines
A FEW weeks ago, I attended a working lunch at De La Salle University. The UN Global Compact Network Philippines and our college were discussing sustainability partnerships, like casebooks, accelerator programs, and curriculum reforms, among others. It was good, serious work. But at some point in the dialogue, someone raised living wage. The ILO, and from our side, apparently, had no definitive response so far for that at the moment. No formula. No clear definition. Nothing they could present to companies asking how much is “enough.”
This should disturb all of us.
I did not have much opportunity to speak much on that issue during the dialogue. I have been thinking about it since. And the more I think about it, the more I am convinced that the living wage problem in the Philippines is not really a computation problem. It is a values problem.
According to the IBON Foundation, the NCR family living wage stands at ₱1,250 a day or ₱27,196 a month as of January 2026. Meanwhile, the minimum wage in NCR is ₱695 a day. That is barely half. I have no quarrel with IBON’s advocacy, and the disparity they are pointing to is real and it is damning. What I want to ask about is something that sits beneath those numbers—Who is in the room when these figures are computed? Who determines the basket of needs? And have they ever had to live inside one?
I once taught environmental and natural resources economics in a doctoral program. One of the core lessons in that field is that we systematically undervalue what we take for granted. We underprice clean water so low that rivers perish. We undervalue forests until flood comes. We have been doing the same thing to Filipino workers for generations, and we have the audacity to call it a wage policy.
Part of the reason probably why we keep postponing it is that the people determining wages are not the ones trying to live on them.
There is a methodology I wish more people were aware of. The Anker Research Institute defines a living wage as “remuneration received for a standard work week sufficient to afford a decent standard of living for the worker and her or his family, covering food, water, housing, education, healthcare, transport, clothing, and other essential needs, including provision for unexpected events.” Read that again slowly. “Unexpected events.” That alone disqualifies most of what Philippine workers are currently paid, because a single hospitalization alone can wipe out years of savings for a family earning minimum wage. The Anker framework builds its estimates from the ground up by pricing food against WHO and FAO nutritional standards, costing decent housing using UN-Habitat benchmarks, and, importantly, consulting the workers themselves.
I thought of doing my homework on this and tried to run a bottom-up estimate for an NCR household of five, pricing food, housing outside informal settlements, transportation, utilities, education, healthcare, and basic contingencies based on what these things actually cost today (but without the oil price hike). The figure came to roughly ₱32,000 to ₱37,000 monthly. I am not presenting this as a finished study. I am presenting it as a provocation. Because even a publicly available price data arrives at a number almost double the minimum wage.
In countries where the living wage is taken seriously, it is not treated as a charity figure. The United Kingdom, for instance, treats it as a statement of what a person’s labor is worth. Here, we treat it as an aspiration we can always postpone.
Part of the reason probably why we keep postponing it is that the people determining wages are not the ones trying to live on them. This observation isn’t new. However, I want to frame it in terms of my own discipline: we are valuing human life the way we once valued mangrove swamps, as something that can always be sacrificed for the benefit of those higher up the chain. And we have seen the consequences of that.
The Filipino concept of likas-kaya, which emphasizes sustainability rooted in sufficiency and in what is native and natural to us, points to the question, “Paano ba nila gustong mabuhay?” How do ordinary Filipinos want to live? Not survive. Live. If we are serious about SDG 8, about decent work and economic growth that actually reaches people, then we have to start from that question. Not from what companies find comfortable to pay. Because until we do, the living wage will remain what it has always been in this country—a number just low enough to keep everyone in their place.
Adrian A. Mabalay is a faculty member at the Department of Management and Organization of the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University. He can be reached at adrian.mabalay@dlsu.edu.ph.
The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.
MREIT, e27 to launch startup hub in Taguig
By Jenniffer B. Austria
Real estate investment trust MREIT Inc. is venturing into the innovation space with plans to develop a dedicated startup hub within its McKinley Hill township.
The company teamed up with Singapore-based platform e27 to launch the country’s first “Digital Park,” a centralized space for startups, founders and investors.
Slated to open in 2026, the facility will offer close to 2,000 square meters of flexible workspace including meeting rooms, conference facilities, and multi-sized work areas designed for early-stage and scaling enterprises.
The Digital Park functions as an ac-
tive innovation hub rather than a traditional office. It will feature regular programming such as startup-investor sessions, mentorship activities, and networking events to foster collaboration.
MREIT president and chief executive Jose Arnulfo Batac said the initiative seeks to build a collaborative environment within the township, which already hosts multinational firms, residential developments, and
educational institutions.
Mohan Belani, e27 co-founder and chief executive, said MREIT’s infrastructure will bring its regional network and experience in startup ecosystem development to the project.
“By anchoring within township communities, we are creating continuous founder support—through weekly mentorship, investor access, and skills development—rather than quarterly engagements,” Belani said. The partnership will roll out in phases. The companies will first identify key partners and form collaborations with investors, accelerators, and corporate groups. The project will then move into continuous programming, such as founder networking activities and flagship events, to drive community growth.
PH shares seen moving sideways as investors weigh MidEast ceasefire
SHARE prices are expected to move sideways with a downward bias this week as easing geopolitical tensions lead to falling crude oil prices.
Analysts said optimism regarding a possible end to the conflict between the United States and Iran could be tempered by the upcoming policy meeting of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. The BSP’s Monetary Board is slated to meet April 23, with a possible rate hike on the table to help bring inflation within the 2 percent to 4 percent target range.
“The local market may start on a positive tone as Iran reopens the Strait of Hormuz amid the ceasefire agreement,” said Japhet Tantiangco, Philstocks Financial Inc. research head. “Still, how the market would move for the rest of the week would depend on the developments on the situation between the U.S. and Iran.”
Tantiangco said a peace deal between the U.S. and Iran would drive the local market higher, while any deterioration of the situation in the Middle East would likely pull the market lower.
Last week, the bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index fell below the 6,000 level as economic risks stemming from the conflict weighed on sentiment.
At this level, the local market is still considered to be at bargain levels. The PSEi is trading at a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.1x, below its five-year historical average of 14.4x. Jenniffer B. Austria
DIGIPLUS Interactive Corp. has joined the Sportradar Integrity Exchange (SIE) to bolster safeguards against match-fixing on its sports betting platform, the company said over the weekend.
The digital gaming company integrated its flagship sportsbook brand, ArenaPlus, into the SIE network. The global intelligence-sharing system enables operators to share real-time data and alerts regarding suspicious betting activities.
Under the partnership, ArenaPlus contributes to and accesses a global pool of intelligence on irregular wagering patterns to improve the detection of potential match manipulation. SIE said the shared data feed into an artificial intelligence-driven fraud detection system. Integrity experts analyze the data alongside AI inputs to identify anomalies across various markets.
“Joining the SIE network is a strategic move to further enhance the ArenaPlus platform,” ArenaPlus head Erick Su said.
“By exchanging critical data with an established firm, we are ensuring a safer environment for our users and helping protect the integrity of the sports we support,” said Su. DigiPlus said the initiative adds a layer of protection to its existing monitoring systems and operational controls while reinforcing compliance standards.
SIE executive vice president for integrity services Andreas Krannich said the collaboration helps protect sports and betting markets in the region.
“Partnering with ArenaPlus, which shares our commitment to transparency and integrity, is an important step in strengthening the region’s betting ecosystem. Together, we aim to foster a safer and more secure environment for sport and its stakeholders,” Krannich said.
The integration occurs as digital gaming expands in the Philippines. Operators are increasingly investing in security and governance to sustain growth and build user trust.
Jenniffer B. Austria
MPOWER POWERS STARBUCKS. MPower Inc., the local retail electricity supplier of Manila Electric Co. and Rustan Coffee Corporation (RCOC) ink partnership under the Retail Aggregation Program to power 60 stores of Starbucks Philippines in Metro Manila. Seen in photo (from left) RCOC vice president-store development Quito Lopez, RCOC president Noey Lopez, Meralco senior vice president and MPower head Redel Domingo, and MPower vice president and retail sales head Eddie John Adug.
Agricultural vehicles to get rebates on MPTC toll roads
By Darwin G. Amojelar
METRO Pacific Tollways Corp. said it will implement a temporary full toll rebate for trucks and cargo vehicles carrying agricultural products starting Monday to keep food prices stable amid the ongoing oil crisis. In coordination with relevant authorities, the full toll rebate program has been established to provide temporary financial relief for accredited agricultural transport owners and operators. The program applies to those plying the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), SubicClark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), NLEX Connector, and other MPTC expressways, including the CaviteLaguna Expressway (CALAX) and Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX).
This initiative aims to mitigate the impact of the ongoing fuel crisis over a one-month period, effective from April 20 until May 19.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez earlier said the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), Department of Agriculture, and major toll concessionaires have agreed to provide toll relief to truckers, industry, and farmers to ensure the unhampered movement of food and other agricultural products. All vehicles transporting food and agricultural products must be accredited by the DA and equipped with an RFID sticker to qualify for the toll exemption. Vehicles transporting agricultural products can save between P600 and P1,800, depending on the vehicle class. The rebates will be credited to their RFID accounts on a weekly basis. The toll exemption will be implemented initially for one month, extendable subject to review, assessment, and further discussions among the DA, Department of Transportation, TRB, and toll concessionaires.
DA says food prices steady despite fuel hikes
By Othel V. Campos
FOOD prices have held steady despite rising fuel costs, indicating that adequate supply has helped cushion the impact of higher logistics expenses, the Department of Agriculture said over the weekend.
Monitoring by the DA’s Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service showed selective price increases in imported rice and local beef and pork following the Feb. 28 U.S.-Israel airstrike on Iran. However, most alternative protein sources—including chicken, eggs, fish, and vegetables—either remained the same or declined as of April 13.
The DA said sustained supply improvements have helped stabilize prices. The lifting of the fishing ban Jan. 31 kept catches of staple fish such as galunggong and tamban stable, pulling prices lower. Prices of galunggong fell to around P200 per kilo from as high as P330, while tamban eased to P130 from P140.
DA brought P20 rice to 932 sites nationwide in Q1
THE Department of Agriculture has established 932 P20 rice selling sites nationwide as of the first quarter of 2026, serving 6.45 million beneficiaries under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s flagship “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program.
The government is accelerating the rollout of the initiative to cushion vulnerable households from rising costs driven by the ongoing energy emergency. The president has ordered the DA to scale up the program by extending selling hours and opening more distribution outlets to widen access as higher fuel costs push up food prices.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the expansion is intended to stabilize food access as rising transport and logistics costs drive retail prices higher. Operating sites include KADIWA outlets, National Food Authority warehouses, local government units, national government agencies, and other sellers accredited by Food Terminal Inc.
Eligible beneficiaries include senior citizens, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) households, solo parents, persons with disabilities, and farmers and fisherfolk.
“We have sufficient food supply, but elevated fuel and logistics costs are pushing market prices to levels that strain the budgets of many Filipinos,” Tiu Laurel said. “By expanding access to affordable rice and essential goods, we are easing that pressure.”
A new agreement between FTI and the NFA is expected to further drive implementation by securing funding and supply commitments for 2026. Under the deal, the DA is set to open 900 additional sites, prioritizing Capiz, Bukidnon, Cebu, Cotabato, Catanduanes, and other high-need areas. Othel V. Campos
To temper rising prices of imported rice, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he is considering an executive order to impose a P50 per kilo price cap, as prevailing market prices have climbed to about P60.
The DA noted that ample domestic production can help blunt the impact of fuel hikes on retail prices. However, prolonged oil price volatility could eventually feed into the country’s food inflation, particularly for imported goods and transport-intensive commodities.
“The DA Bantay Presyo Supply and Monitoring Team is on top of the situation, closely tracking both supply and prices of basic necessities and prime commodities across markets nationwide,” said DA assistant secretary Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra.
“We continue to monitor key agri-fishery products, including rice, cooking oil, sugar, pork, beef, chicken, tilapia, bangus, eggs, and vegetables,” she added. “Based on our latest data, prevailing retail prices remain generally stable and are still fair and justifiable relative to farmgate prices, despite rising fuel costs.”
For now, the DA emphasized that agricultural products are well-supplied, with the probability of softer demand as households contend with higher costs for other goods.
DOTr, LTFRB weigh amnesty for TNVS drivers exceeding vehicle volume caps
THE Department of Transportation and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board are studying a potential amnesty for transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers who were onboarded despite exceeding the vehicle caps set for transport network companies.
The move follows a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. aimed at protecting the livelihoods of drivers and ensuring their daily income remains uninterrupted.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez explained that the driver and vehicle caps of some TNCs have been exceeded.
“What’s happening here is that if they [drivers] are not allowed to board, they can’t
travel. It’s not the reason there is no franchise at this point in time. What triggers this is for the TNC… onboarding them,” Lopez said. “This platform, if you don’t board, you can’t travel.”
According to Lopez, many drivers face financial hardship because they took out loans to purchase the vehicles they use for ridehailing.
“When we cut [them] off right away, all that is foreclosed. The problem is bigger. And I said the timing now, because of what’s happening in the Middle East, is also a bit uncertain for them,” he explained.
The DOTr said it is currently studying what is best for all stakeholders. Darwin G. Amojlear
Think tank pushes for decentralized power grid to end recurring yellow alerts
By Alena Mae S. Flores
THE Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) called for
a more decentralized, diversified, and flexible power system, where the outage of a single facility does not put the entire grid at risk.
The call comes after yellow alerts were raised last week, reflecting a recurring vulnerability in the Philippines’ power system.
A yellow alert is issued when the operating margin is insufficient to meet the transmission grid’s contingency requirement.
The ICSC said the energy sector remains baseload-centric and relies on large power plants, making the grid more exposed to disruptions that affect households and businesses nationwide.
Relying heavily on a few large power plants makes the energy system less flexible and unreliable, the group said. Even short-term outages or plants operating below normal capacity can quickly reduce available reserves and affect grid stability.
In this year’s Philippine Power Outlook Report, the ICSC cautioned that the Visayas grid is vulnerable to alerts due to its reliance on high-
voltage direct current imports from Luzon and Mindanao. This occurred April 16, when the Visayas grid, already operating on net negative reserves, felt the ripple effect of outages and derations in Luzon.
The report also warned that unplanned outages beyond the Department of Energy’s approved schedule could significantly worsen the situation. This scenario unfolded April 16, when unexpected outages tightened supply conditions and triggered yellow alerts across Luzon and Visayas.
The ICSC said expanding the share of indigenous renewable energy— such as geothermal, hydropower, solar, and wind, supported by energy storage systems—will be central to this transition. Renewables strengthen energy security, improve system resilience, and reduce exposure to volatile global fuel markets, the group added.
CLIMATE RESILIENCE. The Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation and the Baguio city government partnered to implement the Building Resilience through Inclusive Development and Gender Equality (BRIDGE) project through the signing of a memorandum of agreement at Baguio City Hall. Through this partnership, supported
SEWAGE PLANT CLEANING. Workers perform regular cleaning and maintenance of aerator tanks at Manila Water Co.’s Ilugin Sewage Treatment Plant in Pasig City.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez
PH seeks more support from World Bank
By Thony Rose Lesaca
THE Philippine government asked the World Bank to provide more timely support and streamlined crisis financing to protect the domestic economy from global geopolitical tensions and climate disasters.
Department of Finance Secretary Frederick Go made the appeal during the EDS15 Constituency Meeting, where he reaffirmed the country’s commitment to job creation and poverty reduction despite rising instability in the Middle East.
The government called for the World Bank to strengthen crisis preparedness by ensuring the continued rollout of disaster risk financing programs. These initiatives allow the Philippines to access emergency funds quickly when shocks occur.
“The Philippines is one with the Bank’s position to ensure that such agendas are sustained across political cycles, recognizing that they are fundamental in building prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable societies,” Go said.
Global uncertainties, including higher oil prices sparked by Middle East conflicts, threaten to increase the cost of goods and strain government resources.
Go requested that the international lender simplify its approval processes for crisis-related assistance to enable faster state responses to economic shocks.
To maintain development programs, the Philippines requested that the World Bank scale up financial support and offer more affordable lending terms. The government cited the need for blended financing, which combines loans with grants and technical assistance to fund urgent infrastructure and institutional needs.
The EDS15 Meeting, chaired by World Bank Executive Director Marcos Chiliatto, included representatives from Brazil, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Haiti, Panama, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago.
The Philippine government continues to prioritize the creation of quality jobs to ensure economic growth improves living conditions for families.
shortens Meralco refund period to 24 months
By Alena Mae S. Flores
THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) shortened the recovery period for Manila Electric Co.’s (Meralco) final true-up calculation of the actual weighted average tariff (AWAT) to 24 months from 36 months, leading to a higher refund for consumers.
The regulator is set to issue a final order approving a refund of P19.96 billion. This equates to a rate of P0.1189 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to be implemented over two years, subject to further review and confirmation.
Meralco had originally proposed a net refund of P19.1 billion, or an average rate of P0.1138 per kWh.
ERC chairperson Francis Saturnino Juan said the commission agreed to
shorten the period in the upcoming final decision so the additional refund can offset expected rate increases in the following month.
ERC commissioner Floresinda Baldo-Digal said the shortened period will take effect in May. These adjustments account for variances between projected and actual collections across different customer classes to ensure charges remain reasonable.
The AWAT mechanism was instituted after a scheduled regulatory reset was deferred. This ensures that implemented rates remain consistent with approved parameters. The current application covers the period from July 2022 to December 2024, during which Meralco used previously approved distribution rates.
Bangko Sentral likely to raise interest rates to 4.50% as inflation quickens
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is likely to raise interest rates at its Monetary Board meeting this week, with several economists expecting a 25-basis-point hike to 4.50 percent following a sharp uptick in inflation.
Four of five analysts polled by Manila Standard expect the BSP to hike policy rates from 4.25 percent to 4.50 percent at its April 23 meeting in response to the 4.1 percent inflation rate recorded in March. The move would aim to bring consumer price growth back within the central bank’s 2 percent to 4 percent target range.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the above-target consumer price index could push the central bank to act despite price pressures being largely supply-driven and external in nature.
Metrobank chief economist Nicholas Mapa also forecast a 25-basispoint hike to help offset budding second-round effects driven by global oil price shocks.
“Tightening should send a signal in a bid to corral inflation expectations that may be fraying due to surging energy costs and subsequent pickup in prices due to second order effects,” Mapa said.
He said the BSP will remain mindful not to aggressively tighten given the limited impact of monetary policy on supply-side inflation.
University of Asia and the Pacific professor emeritus Bernardo Villegas and Union Bank of the Philippines
chief economist Ruben Carlo Asuncion both projected a 25-basis-point hike amid the surge.
“The upside surprise increases the risk of second-round effects and a de-anchoring of inflation expectations, particularly amid food price pressures and peso-driven imported inflation,” Asuncion said.
Reyes Tacandong & Co. senior adviser Jonathan Ravelas views the move as a preemptive response to support the P-denominated currency and preserve credibility. Thony Rose Lesaca
IN BRIEF
Grid operator prepares for 1,471-MW projects
By Darwin G. Amojelar
ST TELEMEDIA Global Data Centres Philippines signed a 10-year renewable energy supply agreement with MPower to provide 40.5 megawatts of clean energy to its Fairview and Cavite data center campuses. The joint venture between Globe Telecom, ST Telemedia Global Data Centres and Ayala Corp. aims to support the country’s increasing demand for cloud services, artificial intelligence and digital platforms through sustainable infrastructure.
The agreement covers the operations of STT Fairview 1 and the STT Cavite campus, providing critical
power for enterprises and technology providers in the Philippines.
It aligns with the company’s broader sustainability goals, which include achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2030.
STT GDC Philippines president and chief executive Carlo Malana said the infrastructure supporting the rapid evolution of AI and digital services should scale responsibly.
“By securing long-term renewable energy, we are ensuring that the mission-critical platforms our customers depend on every day are powered by sustainable sources, keeping carbon neutrality at the core of our operations,” Malana said.
THE National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) said it is readying connection points for 22 committed power projects with a total capacity of 1,471 megawatts (MW) to
April completion deadline. The Department of Energy (DOE) is fasttracking the projects to
amid the
the
Jr. to
the next three years to diversify the national energy mix. The incoming capacity consists almost entirely of renewable energy, led by 12 solar projects totaling 1,284 MW. The remaining portfolio includes six hydroelectric plants, two biomass facilities, one wind project, and a 20-MW
Perez-Alabanza said. Alena Mae S. Flores
construction activities, including additions, alterations, and repairs, contributed the remaining share of the month’s volume.
PH-China tie-up key to clean energy goals
A CLOSER collaboration between the Philippines and China could accelerate renewable energy deployment and help
Chinese and Philippine stakeholders while expanding access to affordable power. The Philippines aims to increase its renewable energy share to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040. The study outlines 6 priority areas for cooperation, including rooftop solar expansion, off-grid solutions for remote communities, emerging technologies, electric vehicle-solar
The commission is considering shorter refund periods for future cases to provide more immediate relief to stakeholders and consumers.
“Given that the commission has the authority to shorten the period, and considering the clamor from consumers — especially during this time of crisis — I am inclined to support a shorter implementation period,” ERC commissioner Paris Real said. Real said this move provides immediate relief without necessarily affecting the operations of distribution utilities.
The ERC said these deliberations advance a regulatory approach that safeguards consumer welfare while maintaining the sustainability of the power sector.
SAN Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp. (SMGP) expects no adverse net financial impact from the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict, citing its diversified portfolio and secure fuel sourcing.
The power arm of conglomerate San Miguel Corp. said in a recent disclosure to the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. it would continue to monitor developments in global commodity and financial markets to take corrective action if necessary.
“As of the reporting date, the group’s power generation costs from its coal and hydroelectric power plants remain largely unaffected by the surge in global oil and gas prices,” SMGP said.
The company attributed its resilience to a diversified sourcing strategy. It procures coal from Indonesian and local suppliers under long-term contracts that provide supply and price security.
“More importantly, most of the group’s PSA [power supply agreements] include fuel price and foreign exchange movement passthrough provisions, which further mitigate exposure to market volatility on a physical basis,” the company said. SMGP said it also uses short-term vanilla derivatives, such as non-deliverable forwards, to hedge foreign exchange exposure for supplier payments denominated in US dollars.
Units South Premiere Power Corp (SPPC) and Excellent Energy Resources Inc (EERI), which operate liquefied natural gas plants, hold contracts for 2,400 MW with Manila Electric Co.
These agreements include provisions to hedge against adverse movements in LNG prices and exchange rates, along with take-or-pay clauses.
The group reported a 2025 consolidated net income of P48.306 billion, nearly four times the P12.384 billion recorded in 2024.
Consolidated revenues for 2025 totaled P157.208 billion, down 23 percent from P205.091 billion in 2024. The company linked the drop to the deconsolidation of SPPC and downward adjustments in fuel tariffs as coal prices under the GC Newcastle index fell 22 percent.
The revenue decline was partially offset by full-year operations at the 600-MW Mariveles Greenfield Power Plant and eight battery energy storage
ISO CERTIFICATION. Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco
(fourth from left) receives the ISO 9001:2015 certification from DQS Certification Philippines managing director Romeo Zamora (third from left) during an awarding ceremony at PAGCOR’s Corporate Office in Pasay City on April 16, 2026. With them are PAGCOR director Francis Democrito Concordia, PAGCOR president and chief operating officer Wilma Eisma, PAGCOR director Jose Maria Ortega, PAGCOR director Gilbert Cesar Remulla, DQS Business Development supervisor Charleen Paraon and Business Development assistant manager Urich Lucio.
REAL ESTATE
Riverpark rises as Cavite’s next mixed-use hub
DEVELOPMENT
activity is picking up pace at Riverpark, where a new wave of projects is beginning to reshape the estate into a mixeduse hub anchored on logistics, retail, education and housing.
Led by Federal Land NRE Global Inc. (FNG), the 600-hectare township is entering a more active buildout phase, with several components moving simultaneously, from industrial facilities to commercial centers and residential developments.
“We are creating an environment that is supportive of business, leisure, residential community. The success of any large estate happens when there is a sort of balanced growth,” FNG president Thomas Mirasol said.
At the northern section of the estate, a newly opened logistics facility for UNIQLO signals Riverpark’s growing role in supply chain operations. Developed with Fast Retailing Philippines Inc., the hub is designed to support nationwide distribution and is touted as the
CEBU-BASED developer AppleOne Group is strengthening its presence in the island’s fastgrowing airport district with the launch of Mahi Center, a mixed-use complex that brings together retail, office and hospitality components within a single site.
Located near Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Barangay Ibo, the development reflects the AppleOne Group’s commitment to supporting the region’s growth activity.
AppleOne Group president and chief executive Ray Go Manigsaca said the Mahi Center will expand the group’s portfolio and will reinforce Cebu’s status as a world-class destination for business, tourism and modern living.
Mahi Center will have a threelevel lifestyle mall that has been gradually opening since late last year. Rising above the retail podium is a five-story office building intended for firms that require proximity to the airport, particularly those in tourism-related services
brand’s largest in Southeast Asia. Retail and universities
A pipeline of developments is filling out the township’s master plan.
Construction is underway for SM
Prime Holdings’s first mall in the city, SM City General Trias, a commercial centerpiece expected to be completed in 2027. The 11-hectare project is poised to serve not just estate residents but also nearby communities, adding a new retail node in eastern Cavite. Education is also part of the long term plan as Ateneo de Manila University is setting up a 15-hectare campus within Riverpark, with opening eyed by 2030. Once operational, it is expected to
draw students, faculty and related businesses, further deepening the estate’s live-work-study ecosystem.
Residential development, meanwhile, is keeping pace. Yume at Riverpark, a Japanese-inspired community, is nearing completion, with site development almost finished and turnover targeted by 2026. Plans are also in motion for mid-rise residential offerings in Riverpark Gateway, envisioned as a more compact, urban district within the estate.
FNG is also planning to launch more commercial lots in Riverpark North as the first phase of commercial lots have already been snapped up, and are now being built into a mixed-
use strip that will support future business activity.
“Nomura Real Estate brings not only the Japanese quality development, but also the very strong Japanese partners that create new value here in Riverpark, said Masao Toba, adviser of Nomura Real Estate Development Co Ltd, the Japanese partnership behind FNG.
Infrastructure momentum
Infrastructure projects surrounding the township are also seen to play a key role in sustaining its growth.
The Cavite–Laguna Expressway is expected to provide direct access to the estate once completed, improving links to Metro Manila and nearby provinces. Meanwhile, the planned Cavite bus rapid transit system aims to shorten travel time across key areas in the province, enhancing mobility for workers and residents.
Other upcoming infrastructure projects, the Cavite–Tagaytay–Batangas Expressway and the proposed Sangley Point International Airport, are expected to further strengthen connectivity and support economic activity in the area.
Within Riverpark itself, internal road networks are being expanded in phases to support increasing traffic as more developments come online.
As these projects move forward, Riverpark is gradually taking shape as a self-contained community—one that brings together places to live, work and do business in a single location.
Jenniffer B. Austria
FOR many Filipinos, the daily commute remains one of the most persistent urban challenges—defined by long travel times, multiple transfers and unpredictability that cuts into work and personal life.
Property developer Ayala Land Inc. is addressing this through a more deliberate integration of transport and mobility systems within its masterplanned estates, where movement is treated as a core component of community design rather than an afterthought.
Across its key developments, the company has been investing in transport hubs, point-to-point (P2P)
extend this model to suburban growth centers, offering P2P services that connect residents to Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
The same approach is applied in the Visayas, where Cebu Business Park and Cebu IT Park serve as major employment centers supported by organized transport systems that help manage daily commuter flows.
A key focus of these mobility features is addressing the “first and last mile”
Completing the development is Fairfield by Marriott Cebu Mactan, a nine-story property with close to 200 rooms, meeting facilities and function spaces. The hotel, the first Marriottbranded city hotel, is positioned to serve both business and leisure travelers seeking convenient access
For AppleOne Group, Mahi Center forms part of a broader push to build developments that function as self-contained community hubs that cater to daily needs while also supporting the region’s expanding visitor economy. With a portfolio that spans residential, commercial, hospitality, and healthcare, AppleOne Group remains committed to sustainable development for communities that will define Cebu’s future. and logistics. The location offers an alternative to more congested business districts in Cebu City, while remaining accessible to key transport routes.
to the airport and nearby beach destinations.
predictable travel within and beyond its estates.
In Makati, the One Ayala Transport Terminal serves as a major hub that connects commuters to provincial buses and P2P services, providing more organized and reliable transport options. Similar systems are embedded in other estates, including Vertis North, which is linked to major rail lines, and Circuit Makati, where transport facilities support both daily commuters and event-driven crowds. In southern Metro Manila, South Park District integrates transport access
The UNIQLO Logistics Facility at Riverpark North
MONDAY, APRIL 20, 2026
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
FRONT ROW
By Japser Valdez
WHAT gives GMA Pictures and Mentorque Productions’ Huwag Kang Titingin its edge is how it leans into its central idea: What happens when an old superstition finds new life online?
The film begins with a ritual for summoning spirits, then pushes that dread into a space shaped by curiosity, screens, and shareable content. That crossover gives the horror film an identity that feels current while keeping its local roots intact.
There are shades of Text (2006) here in the way the film ties horror to modern forms of communication, while the “Umaaligid” brings a lingering sense of danger that may remind some viewers of It Follows (2014).
The strongest payoff from that concept is the creature at the center of the story. The “Umaaligid,” or “The One Who Lurks,” is easily the film’s most memorable element. Its look is disturbing in a way that feels fresh for a Filipino horror movie, and it gives the film some of its most effective moments.
The cinematography and visual effects also help sell the fear. The movie looks polished, and its technical side does not feel half-done.
Among the cast, Sofia Pablo and Marco Masa hold much of the film’s focus. Both come across naturally onscreen, and their performances give the movie a steadier emotional center when the narrative starts to wobble.
For a movie built on such an intriguing setup, though, Huwag Kang Titingin does not dig deep enough into its own world. The lore feels thin, and the film does not spend enough time building the rules, history, or larger
Hollywood,
When Filipino folklore meets the digital age
meaning of the threat it introduces.
The “Umaaligid” is frightening to look at, but beyond its appearance, there is not much to latch onto. It remains scary, but somewhat one-note.
The sequence of events can feel uneven and, at times, confusing, making it harder to stay fully locked in. Several characters are introduced without enough development, so the film never quite gives viewers a strong reason to invest in all of them.
By the time it reaches its final stretch, the ending feels rushed and less satisfying than it should have been.
Even with its flaws, Huwag Kang
Titingin shows how Filipino horror can still find new ways to unsettle by pulling old fears and giving them a new form. It may not fully flesh out the world it introduces, but it has enough style, atmosphere, and strong performances to make its premise stick.
Silicon Valley turn out for the ‘Oscars of Science’
BIG names from film, tech, music, and sports gathered Saturday in Santa Monica, California, for the Breakthrough Prizes, often called the “Oscars of Science.”
The awards, co-founded by philanthropists and tech entrepreneurs, honor leading scientists in Life Sciences, Fundamental Physics, and Mathematics.
“These are some of the most he roic and inspiring people we get in the world,” actor Norton told was important to “highlight what this kind of work contributes to all of us.”
“The United States has the most antiscience administra tion in US history,” he said. “If it was ever especially important, the moment is now.”
In the past year, the Trump ad ministration has cut sci ence funding, halting pro jects and af fecting research workforces.
Rock climb er Alex Hon nold echoed Norton, say ing political shifts should remain “shortterm compared to
the long-term effort required” in advancing human knowledge.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said collaboration between AI tools and scientists was “moving things faster and faster,” but warned that rapid change brings major societal questions.
The Breakthrough Foundation was launched by Google co-founder Sergey Brin, Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan, Julia and Yuri , and 23andMe CEO Anne Wojcicki
Six prizes worth $3 million each were awarded at the 12th edition of the event.
French mathematician Frank Merle was honored for work on nonlinear equations describing waves, fluids, and other systems. He said funding is “essential” and science is “one of the foundations of our civilization.”
Hollywood figures, Ben Affleck, Robert Downey Jr., Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Gal Gadot, Naomi Watts, Gigi Hadid , and others, attended alongside Bill Gates and Paris AFP
Kris Aquino says ‘letting go’ is her gift to son Bimby on his 19th birthday
BINI
P-POP girl group BINI returned to the Coachella stage for a second performance on Saturday morning (April 18, PHT) or Friday (April 17, PDT), delivering a 45-minute set that featured its top hits and trending music catalog.
On the Coachella YouTube channel, “Patropiko” and “Blush” emerged among the most viewed performances from the group’s set, with 5.8 million views and 2 million views, respectively.
The group opened with “Strings,” followed by “Zero Pressure,” “Out Of My Head,” “Karera,” and “Salamin, Salamin.” They also performed “Blink Twice,” “Cherry On Top,” “Blush,” and “Bikini,” before closing with “Patropiko,” which featured an extended dance break.
BINI members Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena greeted the crowd with “Mabuhay” and introduced themselves in their respective dialects. They thanked fans worldwide for the support and the opportunity to represent the Philippines on one of the world’s biggest music festival stages.
The group’s Coachella appearances also trended globally on X, with hashtags including #BINI_CoachellaWk2, BINI BORN FOR COACHELLA, and #BINICHELLA reaching the platform’s top rankings.
The group’s debut set on April 11 marked a historic first for a Filipino group to perform at Coachella, drawing attention from international outlets including Forbes, The Hollywood Reporter, Rolling Stone, and The Guardian.
Senator Bam Aquino also filed Resolution No. 370 in the
By Jasper Valdez
KRIS Aquino celebrated the birthday of her youngest son, Bimby Yap, with a personal message, which she calls the best gift she can give her son.
In an Instagram post, the television host shared a video of Bimby, who turned 19 yesterday, April 19, caring for her at home, alongside his brother Joshua, as she reflected on his sacrifices through her health struggles.
“Bimb has sacrificed so much to take care of me, but he doesn’t have to anymore. The best gift I can give him is to let him enjoy his youth and let him choose his own career path. My deal with him is he just has to give his 100%,” Kris wrote.
She also opened up about Bimby’s growing personal life, expressing excitement over the possibility of his first relationship.
“I never thought I’d be excited for the day when Bimb really likes a girl. He told me he feels she’s ‘special’—my birthday wish for my bunso is that she does become his first girlfriend and, who knows, God willing also his last,” she shared. Kris, who was recently discharged from the hospital, said she continues treatment while prioritizing time with her sons, including a small family celebration for Bimby’s birthday.
Senate, commending BINI for bringing pride to the Philippines and showcasing Filipino talent on the global stage. BINI’s second Coachella
The cast of ‘Huwag Kang Titingin’ at the film’s premiere night
The film follows a group of youngsters from the city who summoned a demonic entity determined to claim their souls
Sofia Pablo leads some of the horror-thriller’s most unsettling moments
Marco Masa stars in ‘Huwag Kang Titingin,’ a horror entry that blends Filipino supernatural lore with the anxieties of a screendriven generation
BINI’s Coachella performances rank among the festival’s moststreamed online
Kris Aquino (right) wants Bimby to enjoy his youth and choose his own path after years of caring for her
Gigi Hadid joins the mix of stars, tech figures, and public personalities attending this year’s Breakthrough Prizes in Santa Monica
MUPH 2026 trims contenders to Top 31 in high-stakes elimination night
Very Wang Nickie Wang
THE Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) organization has narrowed its field from 40 to 31 candidates following a series of eliminations combining public votes, committee scores, and preliminary interviews.
The Top 31 were announced dur ing the Charity Gala held Saturday night at the Grand Ballroom of City of Dreams Manila, where delegates also took part in a fashion show wear ing Filipiniana gowns by designers Edwin Uy, Chico Estiva, and Miss Universe Philippines organization ex ecutive Albert Andrada
Originally set to advance only 30 candidates, the organization added one more delegate from Tacloban City, bringing the total to 31. All 50 delegates participated in the gala run way presentation, as earlier rounds of elimination had not fully removed contestants from participation.
The roster was determined through a combination of the Maya app “U Vote” public poll, which accounted for 15 delegates, and the selection committee, which chose 16 based on overall performance.
The gala also served as a fundraising event for Hope for Change, Project Pearls, and Miss Possibilities.
Lia Andrea Ramos, head of advocacy and women empowerment for MUPH, emphasized the purpose behind the event.
“These organizations embody the true spirit of Miss Universe—empathy, resilience, and purpose,” Ramos said. “To our incredible delegates: you remind us that beauty is not only seen but expressed through intellect, heart, and strength. As you step into the pageant finals, may you carry these values with grace and confidence.”
She added, “When beauty is guided
by purpose, and hope meets action, the universe becomes a force for change.”
The Top 31 will next compete in the swimsuit round as the pageant continues its elimination process, leading to the coronation night on May 2 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Miss Universe Philippines 2026 Top 31 candidates are: Alexandra Krishna Colmenares (Albay); Roxie Baeyens (Baguio City); Princess Ryla Hernandez (Cabanatuan City); Erica Mae Cadayday (Camiguin); Jensel Mansala
SM SUPERMALLS is rolling out a wide slate of summer attractions across its properties, turning its malls and leisure sites into all-in-one destinations for sports, entertainment, and family outings.
The company said its lineup of activities spans indoor and outdoor experiences, designed for visitors looking to cool down, stay active, or spend time with family and friends during the season.
At SM Skating, guests can take to the ice for recreational skating sessions, whether beginners are learning the basics or regular visitors are practicing their skills in a chilled indoor setting.
For those seeking more variety, SM Game Park offers a mix of recreational sports, including billiards, table tennis, archery, bowling, and pickleball, combining casual play with friendly competition. Outdoor entertainment is anchored by Skyranch Tagaytay, Skyranch Pampanga, Skyranch Baguio, and SM By the Bay Amusement Park in Manila. These sites feature amusement rides, openair attractions, and leisure spaces designed for group outings and family gatherings.
SM Supermalls said the different venues are part of its effort to create “maxed-out” experiences that blend sports, leisure, and entertainment across its portfolio.
SM Family Entertainment Center Inc. (FECI) said its operations, which include Skyranch, SM By the Bay Amusement Park, and SM Storyland, are focused on family bonding through shared activities, describing its spaces as built around the idea that “everyday is a celebration.”
SM Sports and Leisure Centers (SLC) said it
Clarissa Westram (Cotabato Province); Charieze Lianne Cacayorin (Ilocos Norte); Nicklyn Jutay (Iloilo); Bea Millan Windorski (La Union); Ysabel Cecilia Prats (Laguna Province); Scarlett de Mesa (Los Baños, Laguna); Justine Felizarta (Manila); Lyneree Montero Yodong (Mountain Province); and Adela Mae Marshall (Muntinlupa).
Completing the top 31 are Alexandria Colmenares (Negros Occidental); Michelle Burchelle (Nueva Ecija); Jaia Lyn Aluning (Nueva Vizcaya); Neil Silva (Occidental Mindoro); Allyson Hetland (Pampanga); Donna Rein Nuguid (Pangasinan); Patricia Ella Evangelista (Quezon Province); Alicia Chelsea Buendia (Rizal Province); Catherine Wardle (Samar Island); Jayka Noelle Munsayac (San Jose, Negros Oriental); Jenrose Javier (Sultan Kudarat); Jacqueline Gulrajani (Tacloban City); Bella Ysmael (Taguig); Chrystel Mae Correos (Tandag City); and Marian Dela Cruz Arellano (Tarlac).
WITH a wave of promotional events nearly as sprawling as its lineup, Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival has grown into an influencer playground and a brand gold mine.
Known simply as Coachella, it sets the tone for the US festival circuit.
Tickets for this year’s edition, now in its second weekend with Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Karol G headlining, sold out within four days last year.
Organizers expected about 250,000 people across two weekends at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, where brand events in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle filled the space around nine stages.
“I love how big it’s gotten,” said Luz Maura, 24, at an e.l.f. Beauty station offering lip gloss, slushies, makeup touch-ups and selfie corners.
The company’s “e.l.f.scape to Balm Desert” campaign drew a six-figure audience, said executive Patrick O’Keefe, citing data showing 92 percent of daily users apply lip products. Donut-shaped chairs and mirrors doubled as photo backdrops.
Often dubbed the “influencer olympics,” the festival also saw Pinterest take a different route with a phonefree space. Visitors surrendered devices to enjoy hands-on activities, trading posts for presence.
“It’s super nice to have a few minutes off your phone,” said attendee Liz Mendoza
Pinterest executive Sarah Pollack said the festival remains key to reaching Gen Z, now half its audience. In desert heat topping 30°C, brand activations double as shaded retreats, drawing crowds that benefit sponsors. Absolut returned with its nightclubstyle Heat Haus.
“Coachella is more than a music festival — it’s a cultural destination,” said brand director Bethan Hamilton
For Flor Ruiz, born in 1999 when the festival began, the extras define the experience.
“For me, there’s no such thing as Coachella without this,” she said, as she left one of the promo events. “It’s not just about the music. For that, we’d just go to a concert.” AFP
Caña (Cavite); Apriel Smith (Cebu City); Nicole Borromeo (Cebu Province);
Miss La Union Bea Millan Windorski
Miss Baguio Roxie Baeyens
Miss Taguig Bella Ysmael
Miss Cebu Province Nicole Borromeo
Festival-goers line up to get inside the activation booth of US social media service Pinterest during the 2026 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
products inside the promotional booth of South Korean skincare brand Medicube
By Nickie Wang
IMAGINE the road to Club Laiya opening with a familiar cue: salt in the air, a stretch of pale sand, and the hum of a weekend crowd settling into motion. On one side, a group rallies volleys in a pickleball clinic. A few steps away, beach tennis plays out under a sharp midday sun, while others drift toward the shoreline, where the pace slows and the water takes over.
This is the setting Landco Lifestyle Ventures (LLV) builds on with its “Life on Vacation Lifestyle Experiences,” a campaign running through the summer across its estates.
The idea centers on staying for a few days, following a program of activities, and seeing how these places operate as both destinations and communities.
At CaSoBe (Calatagan South Beach), the rhythm shifts. Families move between shaded areas and open spaces, pausing for guided wellness sessions or small group workshops. Time unfolds at a gentler pace, with spaces designed for rest and reconnection.
Further along the coast, Punta Fuego carries a more contained atmosphere. Afternoons lead into sunset gatherings, where the light softens and conversations stretch. The setting leans into a slower cadence, shaped by quiet beachfront moments.
At Costa Azalea, the terrain shifts again. Water anchors the experience, with activities built
Life on vacation lifestyle experiences
around the shoreline and open sea. Guests move between recreation and rest, with spaces that support both.
Up north, Camp John Hay offers a cooler setting. Pine trees replace palms, and the air carries a crisp edge. The program highlights heritage and nature, drawing guests outdoors at a steady pace.
Across these locations, the structure stays consistent. Guests book into the properties and join a schedule that includes early morning wellness sessions, cooking workshops, beach barbecues, and small social gatherings. The activities shape the day while leaving room for personal time. The campaign is anchored on LLV’s belief that
Hello again, Amsterdam
the clearest way to understand its developments is through firsthand experience.
Specially curated summer weekend packages invite guests to stay within LLV properties while taking part in a full calendar of lifestyle activities, from sunrise wellness sessions and family cooking workshops to beach barbecue cookouts, mixology classes, upcycling lessons, and beach sports clinics, alongside sunset gatherings, a Mother’s Day celebration, and family-oriented programs.
More importantly, the campaign serves as a natural bridge between hospitality and real estate—allowing prospective buyers to experience the life-
we were entering
the “gay neighborhood,” and he made such a big deal out of it. I was wondering why. I figured the city’s gay population must be that big, which is why he kept stressing the area as the “gay neighborhood.”
As we got closer to the houses, he asked us to notice something odd about them. Some were built slightly tilting to the left and some to the right. That’s when he clarified that, since the houses were not standing “straight,” then the houses must be “gay,” which elicited guffaws from us passengers.
Driving around the city, one immediately notices the number of bicycles found on the streets. I learned that the city only has a little over 900,000 residents, but they own a total of 1.4 million bicycles. This mode of transport is preferred because of the city’s flat terrain and its 500 kilometers of dedicated bike lanes. Residents find bicycling the most convenient way to navigate the thickly populated downtown area. Since the city streets are very narrow and parking fees are exorbitant, some residents also prefer to drive “miniature” cars, which I saw many of running around the city. These compact, electric two-seaters make it easy for anybody to navigate the tight thoroughfares, also because the city’s speed limit is only 30 kilometers per hour. What’s surprising is that these vehicles are allowed to use the bike lanes and even the sidewalks. Most of all, they can fit into any limited parking space.
I passed by the house of Anne Frank but, since I had already seen its interiors during my first visit to Amsterdam, I was no longer willing to brave the long queue and wait three hours to get in. I decided to just snap a photo of the main door and move on to another attraction.
I then drove for 40 minutes north of Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans, a picturesque village known for its iconic Dutch windmills and its artisan workshops that feature the famous Dutch wooden clogs and cheese. It was quite an experience entering a functioning windmill. There are still about 1,200 windmills operating in various parts of the country for industrial use.
In the village, a wide variety of Delftware, or blue-and-white ceramics, dazzled me enough to buy some pieces to bring
style before making an investment decision.
“We’re not just inviting people to visit our destinations—we’re inviting them to live in them, even if just for a few days,” said Janine Huang, head of brand experience & hospitality commercial, LLV. “Through these experiences, guests can better understand the value of owning a home in a place designed around leisure, community, and everyday enjoyment.”
Running throughout the summer, the initiative links beach, mountain, and island locations into one program. The approach encourages guests to stay, take part, and consider a longer connection with these communities.
back home. I now have a nice little Dutch corner in my living room. I also visited the clogs factory in the village. These traditional wooden shoes, or klompen, were originally worn by farmers and fishermen in the 13th century. Now, they’re produced purely as souvenirs. But my favorite stop in the village was the cheese factory. Amsterdam is known for the creamy, buttery, and mild-flavored Gouda and Edam varieties. Thus, my suitcase reached its maximum allowed weight when I checked in for my flight home. Due to time constraints, I could no longer visit a tulip farm and garden. I will have to wait for the next Floriade, which is Amsterdam’s biggest horticultural show staged every 10 years. In this event, visitors can feast their eyes on miles and miles of tulips and other flowers in various colors. What one sees is literally a flower wonderland, something I’m looking forward to in the near future. That will give me another reason to say, “Hello Again, Amsterdam!”
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At CaSoBe, families can enjoy a slower pace with wellness sessions and workshops in a relaxing environment
The windmills in the historic village of Zaanse Schans, north of Amsterdam
Spend slower afternoon and sunset gatherings at Punta Fuego
Costa Azalea’s terrain features water-based activities and spaces for both recreation and rest
One of the many two-seater electric miniature cars plying the streets of Amsterdam
Some of the ‘gay’ houses in the city are named by a canal cruise captain because they are not ‘straight’
Uniquely decorated window of the clogs store in Zaanse Schans