Manila Standard - 2026 June 17 - Wednesday

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Sandigan puts Jinggoy under 90-day preventive suspension

By Maricel V. Cruz

VOL. XL • NO. 123 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026

THE Sandiganbayan Second Division has placed Senator Jinggoy Estrada under a 90-day preventive suspension over alleged kickbacks linked to the flood control mess.

Reacting to the court’s decision,

Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said in a social media post that the legal directive explicitly bars Estrada from taking part in the high-profile political trial of the vice president throughout the three-month suspension period.

“Nothing can be clearer than this.

Next page

‘No stopping special session’

Alan: You can have Senate presidency...; Ping: Alan is the crisis

By Pot Chavez, Joel Zurbano and Ram Superable

S

ENATE President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian on Tuesday urged all senators to attend today’s special session called by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., saying the one-day proceedings should be used to act on long-pending measures and key appointments.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and eight other allied senators, however, filed a petition before the Supreme Court yesterday seeking to declare null and void Gatchalian’s election as Senate President Pro Tempore.

Not everyone in Cayetano’s bloc joined the petition, though, with Senators Mark Villar, Joel Villanueva, and Ronald dela Rosa not included.

Villanueva earlier said he will attend the special session, while Dela Rosa has not surfaced since leaving the Senate premises on May 14 amid a standing arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court.

“To allow an un-quorumed Senate minority to reshape the leadership of a co-equal branch of government is to sanction a constitutional crisis by subtraction. A Senate stripped of its independent voice ceases to be a counterweight to power and becomes a rubber stamp for executive ambition,” the 87-page petition read.

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SHOWDOWN. Today’s special session will show whether Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian or Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano has the numbers to lead the Senate in the days ahead. PRIB, FB of Sen. Gatchalian, FB of Sen. Cayetano.

18 ex-bodyguards raise accusations anew in senator-less presscon

By Joel Zurbano, Ram Superable and Charles Dantes THE 18 ex-bodyguards of former lawmaker Zaldy Co presented anew their

allegations of distributing luggage filled with cash against several politicians, government officials and even media personalities in a press conference led by former Rep. Mike Defensor.

Defensor earlier packaged the press

conference as a “Blue Ribbon Committee hearing” but no senator was present during the event, not even Senator Rodante Marcoleta who previously headed a hearing that invited the 18 to the Senate.

The former security personnel detailed

their participation in the deliveries of cashfilled “maleta” and presented photos which they said are proof of their allegations.

Some of the personalities named by the former bodyguards immediately Next page

House prosecutors to call in VP Sara’s officials as hostile witnesses

By Maricel V. Cruz

ALLEGATIONS. Ex-bodyguards of fugitive Rep. Zaldy Co made allegations anew during a forum led by Mike Defensor of delivering kickbacks to a host of political and media personalities in what was supposed to be a Blue Ribbon committee hearing of Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano’s senate bloc. Manny Palmero

Talks on final deal with US to begin this week, says Iran IRAN said Tuesday that talks with the United States on its nuclear program and sanctions relief would likely begin later this week, as President Donald Trump said the Strait of Hormuz would “completely open” once the foes sign their deal.

Officials say negotiations over a final deal would take place in a 60-day

TRUST in news in the Philippines plummeted by 10 points in 2026, the steepest decline among all 48 markets covered by this year’s

Next page

Anti-corruption fight a major concern of PBBM

window after the memorandum of understanding to end nearly four months of war triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran is physically signed.

“Likely on Friday, at a location to be determined... a new round of negotiations between Iran and the United States to reach a final agreement will Next page

Pinoys’ trust in news posts biggest fall in Reuters study

By Yvonne Chua

OFFICIALS of the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd) may be called as hostile witnesses in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte, lead prosecutor lawyer Gerville Luistro of Batangas said.

Luistro made the disclosure as the House prosecution panel filed their pre-trial brief identifying witnesses and evidence for the June 18 pre-trial conference before

the Senate impeachment court.

Meanwhile, Duterte’s defense team also confirmed they have formally filed the respondent’s pre-trial brief before the Senate impeachment court.

In another development, a member of the prosecution team said at least 50 firearms allegedly registered under the Vice President and her husband, lawyer Manases Carpio, could push their actual net worth above the figures reported in Duterte’s Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net

Reuters Institute Digital News Report (DNR), amid deep political divisions, sustained attacks on the media, and a continued shift toward social media, video platforms, creaNext page

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said the fight against corruption remains one of the most serious concerns and priorities of his administration, stressing that public funds lost to graft deprive Filipinos of essential services and opportunities.

Speaking during a joint press confer-

Marcos arrives in Russia NEWS / A2 ence with visiting German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Malacañang,

Marcos said corruption weakens the government’s ability to deliver programs and projects for the people.

In the same forum, Marcos and. and Steinmeier pledged to deepen cooperation in defense, trade, maritime security, infrastructure and renewable energy.

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FOR POSTERITY’S SAKE. President

Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos pose for a photo with German President FrankWalter Steinmeier and First Lady Elke Büdenbender at the Reception Hall of Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. PPA Pool

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

House...

From A1 Worth (SALN).

“I think most of them you’ve seen already in the inquiry in aid of legislation by the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability then presided by Chair Joel Chua back in the 19th Congress,” Luistro said.

The OVP and DepEd are central to the impeachment allegations involving confidential funds, with Duterte having served as both Vice President and Education secretary during the period covered by several congressional inquiries.

Luistro also said the prosecution expects strong opposition from Duterte’s camp when evidence is presented under the article involving unexplained wealth.

“Without specifically mentioning the witnesses and the exhibits to be presented, but we anticipate that to happen in the article for unexplained wealth,” Luistro said.

Asked whether the defense would oppose efforts to subpoena bank records and bank officials, Luistro said the prosecution already expects such resistance.

“We anticipate that,” Luistro stressed.

The Batangas lawmaker pointed to past legal actions taken by Duterte’s camp during earlier proceedings as basis for the prosecution’s expectation.

In a statement, Duterte’s defense spokesperson, lawyer Michael Poa, said they personally submitted the document at around late Monday afternoon, but refrained from disclosing its contents while proceedings are ongoing.

“We will refrain from discussing the substance of the filing at this time, out of respect for the ongoing proceedings and in accordance with Rule XVIII of the Senate Rules on Impeachment,” it added.

In an interview with House reporters, House impeachment prosecutor and Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon said they would would seek records from the Philippine National Police (PNP) pertaining to the armory of the Dutertes.

“So there are three important aspects to this new evidence. First, the type of property,” Ridon explained.

‘I mean, I think those properties that are regulated properties like guns, firearms, should really be declared in the SALN of a public official,” he said.

Talks...

From A1 begin,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said.

“In the final agreement, decisions will be made on the nuclear issues and the lifting of sanctions.”

According to Iran’s deputy foreign minister, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the Islamic republic’s top negotiator, will attend the signing in Switzerland.

The US side will be represented by Vice President JD Vance, who said Trump himself might also attend.

The developments came after Trump said an Iranian blockade on the crucial Hormuz strait oil and gas route would be fully lifted by the same day, which would be a major boost to the global economy.

The US had, in retaliation, imposed its own blockade on Iranian ports.

“Ships are starting to move, many loaded up with Oil, out of the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump said Monday, adding later that he did not “think we will need much help” keeping the waterway open.

Sporadic episodes of violence since an April ceasefire had threatened a deal but weeks of indirect negotiations mediated by Pakistan and Qatar built momentum for an interim agreement. AFP

18...

From A1 fired back against the accusations.

Senator Francis Pangilinan said he will take legal action after he was accused of receiving suitcases containing up to P70 million in alleged kickbacks from anomalous flood control projects.

“Pure insinuations. Pure allegations.

Pure theater. They just want to tarnish my reported assumption of office as chairperson of the Senate Blue Ribbon Subcommittee that will investigate the flood control scam,” he said.

The former “bagmen” of Co showed photos of Pangilinan, his wife Sharon Cuneta, and their two children inside a pri-

PBBM in Russia for 3-day visit trade, and broader economic relations between the Philippines and Russia.

The trip comes as the Philippines continues to confront energy supply challenges and rising concerns over global commodity volatility. Philippine officials indicated that oil, nuclear energy cooperation and trade will be among the key topics raised during the Marcos-Putin meeting.

Mr. Marcos has pursued a foreign policy aimed at expanding Manila’s economic and strategic partnerships with a wide range of countries while

maintaining longstanding alliances.

The Russia visit reflects that approach, particularly as the Philippines explores additional sources of energy and agricultural imports to bolster domestic supply chains.

The ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit is expected to provide a platform for regional leaders to discuss trade, economic recovery, food security, and emerging geopolitical challenges affecting Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

jority are committed to attending the special session and addressing urgent pending measures.

He described the agenda as clear and urgent, focusing on healthcare, education funding, and assistance for Filipinos in crisis.

“No drama, no delay, no excuse not to work. We should be ready to work and ready to help move forward whatever must be acted upon for the public good,” Zubiri said.

Gatchalian, for his part, said today’s

special session will allow lawmakers to “act on measures that matter to the Filipino people.”

“The Senate must continue to work, fulfill its mandate, and respond to the needs of our nation,” he said.

“The Senate recognizes its duty to the people, and we will fulfill it with all our might in the special session called by our President,” Gatchalian added.

Among the measures lined up for consideration are the proposed establishment of a National Center for Geriatric Health, amendments to the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE) Act, the proposed Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) Act, and amendments to the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. Lawmakers are also expected to deliberate on the proposed Last Mile and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged and Conflict-Affected Areas (GIDA) Schools Act, amendments to the Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino Act, the proposed Anti-Political Dynasty Act, and the Presidential Merit Scholarship Program.

Gatchalian noted the Commission on Appointments must also convene to act on pending Cabinet, military, and Foreign Service appointments.

“All of these will directly affect the lives of Filipinos, so we will ensure that the Senate acts quickly and efficiently.

We will also discuss immediate relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction assistance for the tens of thousands of Filipinos affected by the Sarangani earthquake, including the rebuilding of damaged infrastructure,” he said.

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri previously said members of the Senate ma-

practices that had become embedded in parts of government.

“There was no way to do it easily or painlessly. We had to turn everything on its head to make very, very clear that these abusive practices that we had to suffer from before will no longer be allowed,” he pointed out.

The President said authorities are continuing efforts to uncover how irregularities developed within government systems and to hold accountable those responsible.

“We have to discover that, so we don’t go and do it again and make the same mistakes,” he said. “Those who are found to be part of this system of corruption, they will be punished and they will provide restitution to the Filipino people,” he said.

Earlier this year, Marcos ordered a comprehensive audit and inspection of flood control projects nationwide after questions were raised over billions of pesos spent on infrastructure that allegedly failed to mitigate flooding in several areas.

Government agencies have since filed administrative and criminal complaints against several individuals linked to allegedly anomalous infrastructure projects, while hundreds of flood control projects remained under review.

Marcos said corruption involving public funds is particularly unacceptable because it directly affects ordinary Filipinos.

“What they have taken is not my money or your money or a company’s money. It’s the money for the people,” he said.

2025, then dropped back to 28 percent this year.

tors, and AI tools.

Only 28 percent of adult Filipino respondents said they trusted most news most of the time, down from 38 percent in 2025 – a sharper fall than in Ireland, Thailand, Peru, and Poland, also among the markets with the sharpest declines this year.

The DNR, now in its 15th year, is based on an online YouGov survey of more than 97,000 adults across 48 markets, including 2,021 in the Philippines, for the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at the University of Oxford.

The fall pulled the Philippines below the global average of 37 percent, itself the lowest level since the DNR began tracking trust in news in 2015.

It erased recent gains: Trust stood at 27 percent in 2020, rose to 38 percent in

The global report cautions against reading the trust decline only as a verdict on newsrooms. In the hardest-hit countries, it pointed to “political instability, divisive elections,” “a noisier and more fragmented information environment,” and direct attacks on news outlets and journalists.

Sen Jinggoy cannot participate in the impeachment trial of VP Sara Duterte for a period of 90 days,” he said.

“This Court hereby orders the suspension pendente lite of accused Senator Jose ‘Jinggoy’ P. Ejercito Estrada from his present position as Senator of the Republic of the Philippines, and from any other public office he may now or hereafter hold for a period of ninety (90) days from receipt of this Resolution,” the Sandiganbayan Second Division said in a resolution.

Estrada’s suspension was in accordance with the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and the Plunder Law, under which courts may direct the preventive suspension of incumbent public officials once a criminal charge has been filed against them.

Section 5 of Republic Act 7080, or the Plunder Law, provides that any public official facing criminal prosecution “under a valid information under this Act ... shall be suspended from office.”

Section 13 of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act states that officials charged with graft or criminal offenses under the Revised Penal Code “shall be suspended from office.”

vate hangar alongside workers from Misibis Aviation and Development Corp., an aviation firm associated with Co. “There is not a single shred of basis in the attempts to smear my character by those who held a press conference about the suitcases linked to the billions of pesos stolen from the nation’s coffers. And because you even dragged my family into this, you will experience actual court cases, not just insinuations, allegations, or theater. You will be held accountable for the slander you are doing,” Pangilinan said.

Commission on Elections chairman George Garcia also denied allegations that he received suitcases containing millions of pesos from individuals linked to the flood control scandal, describing the

claims as inconsistent and fabricated.

During an interview with Bilyonaryo’s Agenda, Garcia said he was not surprised that his name surfaced during yesterday’s press conference.

Garcia noted that earlier allegations claimed he had received four suitcases containing money, while the latest version alleged that he was given a black bag containing P10 million.

“You can see the lie. It’s a lie and it’s not even perfect. What is it really, a suitcase or a bag?” the poll chief said.

“I have nothing to do with flood control. Comelec is very far from the government’s flood control programs or projects,” he added.

Garcia said his legal action would not be limited to those who publicly made

the allegations but could also include individuals who may be behind the claims.

“It’s not enough that only the 18 people are implicated. Those behind them should also be included,” he said.

Media personality Ramon Tulfo also laughed off allegations linking him to the alleged flood control scam, saying that he wished the claims of him receiving millions of pesos were true.

In a Facebook post, Tulfo ridiculed the claim, questioning how P2 million to P3 million could fit inside a “small paper bag.”

“I’ll confront Joey when I get home to Manila and ask him where the paper bag of money went. My friends and family might ask for ‘balato’ with this allegation. How can millions of pesos fit in a small paper bag? Perhaps in a

‘bayong’ (tote bag) if that were the case,” he said.

Broadcaster Arnold Clavio also rejected the allegations that he received paper bags containing cash.

“Lies. Laughable. Saddening. But I will face all of this without fear. Talk is cheap. Before talking big, show the evidence first,” Clavio said.

As this developed, Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian and Senator Erwin Tulfo are mulling legal action against Defensor for claiming that the Blue Ribbon committee will be resuming its probe.

“He is creating confusion. He is not the chairman of the Blue Ribbon. He is not a member. He is not a senator. Why is he lying to the people?” Gatchalian said.

By Charles Dantes

P

RESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. arrived in Russia on Wednesday for a three-day working visit centered on strengthening economic cooperation, energy security, and food supply resilience.

The June 17–19 visit will see President Marcos attend the ASEAN‑Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan and hold a bilateral meeting with Russian

President Vladimir Putin, the Department of Foreign Affairs said.

The discussions are expected to focus on food security, energy cooperation,

‘No stopping...

From A1

achieving justice through an impartial impeachment trial, or preventing a sinister Charter Change, the truth and the constitutionally provided safeguards embodied in our laws matter,” Cayetano said.

“With much respect, the Honorable Court is thus called upon to exercise its judicial power to halt this overreach, reinforce the canalized boundaries between the branches of government, and ensure that the Senate remains a true coequal partner in governance — beholden only to the Constitution and the people, not to the dictates of the Executive,” it added.

‘You can have the Senate presidency but…’

Cayetano appeared ready for the possibility that Gatchalian’s bloc will have 13 members or more by today.

“If they already have 13, congratulations.

We know how you got it, through intimidation, bribery, and threats of imprisonment,” he said in a Facebook live video.

“We were actually discussing among ourselves – they can get everything, the Senate presidency, all the committees, but if they (Gatchalian bloc) are sincere, they must leave the Blue Ribbon Committee to us.”

“My question is, if you get 13, are we going to erase the flood control issue again, or will we put it front and center?” Cayetano added.

He claimed the Senate leadership row aimed to confuse the public and shield the administration from accountability over alleged flood infrastructure spending irregularities.

“When fundamental truths are... covered up or manipulated, public officials have a duty to act. Whether it is protecting the independence of the Senate from Malacañang, uncovering the truth behind the flood control corruption scandal,

Anti-corruption...

From A1 “The fight against corruption in the Philippines is as serious as it can get,” Marcos said.

“Every government, every entity, every business entity, every government feels the corrosive influence of corruption… This completely changes the way government can work. It limits governments to such an extent that many of the things that are wished for, that are necessary as services to the people, government is unable to deliver,” he added.

Marcos also said his administration’s anti-corruption campaign required sweeping reforms to dismantle abusive

Pinoys’...

From A1

‘Cayetano is the crisis’

Senator Panfilo Lacson criticized Cayetano for his “last minute” attempt to assert his “authority” as Senate President through the petition his bloc filed before the High Court.

“Disgraced ex-SP Cayetano should have done that earlier to give the Court sufficient time to study and rule on the issue now being raised before the Court. Instead, he chose to file it at the last minute or a day before the special session called by PBBM,” Lacson said.

“Is he trying to dig deeper in his bag of tricks to create a scene (today) by invoking that pending action by the SC on his petition?”

“The Senate Sgt-at-Arms may have his arms and hands full (today) in case another series of crises is again created by Sen. Cayetano. In actual fact, he (Cayetano) is the crisis,” Lacson added.

Aside from Cayetano, other petitioners were Senators Loren Legarda, Pia Cayetano, Jinggoy Estrada, Bong Go, Rodante Marcoleta, Imee Marcos, Robin Padilla, and Camille Villar.

Lawyer Jose Luis Montales who served as Senate Secretary under Cayetano’s leadership, was also named a petitioner.

Gatchalian and the members of his bloc as well as Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. and Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Alfredo Corpus were named respondents.

‘Fulfill our mandate with all our might’

Beyond the newsroom

Enhanced security measures extended

As this developed, the Senate yesterday decided to extend the enforcement of enhanced security measures, Gatchalian said after a discussion with security officials from law enforcement agencies.

He confirmed the identified threat to the Senate arises from an armed group, reinforcing the necessity for these measures.

Earlier, Gatchalian issued an advisory to all senators and Senate offices that the security survey and inspection (SSI) stemmed from persistent information and intelligence reports relayed by the National Bureau of Investigation, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency and other corroborating security assessments that confirmed an “evolving security concern.”

In his advisory, Gatchalian said the evolving security concern is under the context of “heightened political tensions, ongoing impeachment proceedings, anticipated mass mobilizations and the risk of actions that may threaten the security of the Senators, officials and employees, and disrupt, impede or interfere with Senate operations.”

Sandigan...

From A1

A3 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026

advertise@manilastandard.net

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Modernized dispensaries help boost morale, operational readiness, and confidence among Philippine Navy personnel.

Committed to care: How medical services sustain Navy readiness

SM Foundation has given us years of free maintenance of the medical dispensary. It’s a huge help for NETC. It paved the way for improved medical services.

W

HERE were you 10 years ago?

For many of us, a decade can feel like a blur—a collection of memories and moments reviewed in our minds. But for some, those ten years mark transformations that spread far past personal milestones, strengthening institutions that protect and serve the nation.

For the Philippine Navy, one of those transformations began in December 2016 at Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui (NSLG) in San Antonio, Zambales, when the NSLG Medical Dispensary (NSLG MD) was renovated with the support of the SM Foundation. The same facility still pulses with purpose, delivering quality healthcare to naval personnel, trainees, their families, and residents nearly a decade later.

The dispensary provides about 18,000 medical services each year, ranging from preventive immunizations and physical exams to treatment of common infections and training-related injuries.

For Female Sailor Candidate Rochelle Nuestro, a trainee of the Philippine Navy Class 75, an ordinary day of training turned into a moment of uncertainty that could have changed the course of her life. Yet, it was within the walls of the NSLG Medical Dispensary that her journey to recovery began—a place where skill, compassion, and readiness converge to save not just bodies, but futures.

Reflecting on her experience, Nuestro said, “Kung wala ‘yung dispensary, for sure, wala na ako dito (Philippine Navy) kasi ‘yung accident ko, napunan agad siya because of the dispensary kaya hindi siya lumala nang sobra.” Her words capture the lifesaving role of the dispensary, where immediate first aid, X-rays, fracture care, and ongoing guidance ensured that her injury did not derail her career.

Serving as both a healthcare center and a force readiness asset, the NSLG Medical Dispensary provides access to quality care, allowing trainees to focus on their rigorous programs with confidence that their health is in capable hands.

A decade of service: The NSLG Medical Dispensary in San Antonio, Zambales, continues to deliver quality healthcare to Philippine Navy personnel, trainees, and their families, thanks to the support of the SM Foundation.

SM Foundation’s partnership with the Philippine Navy has also reached other parts of the country through the renovation and expansion of several medical and dental dispensaries.

These include facilities in LapuLapu City, Legazpi City, and Puerto Princesa, each improved to provide more accessible, efficient, and responsive healthcare services for Navy personnel, their families, and nearby communities.

With every upgraded dispensary, care becomes faster, more accessible, and more dignified for the men and women of the Philippine Navy, their families, and the communities that live around them. These improvements also help raise the standards of medical service, supporting DOH and PhilHealth accreditation while bringing essential healthcare closer to those who need it most.

Rear Admiral Karl Decapia, PN, emphasizes the role of these renovations in keeping the Navy mission-ready: “SM Foundation has given us years of free maintenance of the medical dispensary. It’s a huge help for NETC. It paved the way for improved medical services.”

From first aid to fracture care, the dispensary combines expertise and compassion to safeguard the health and readiness of naval heroes.

Skilled personnel provide immediate care to trainees such as FSC Rochelle Nuestro, ensuring that injuries do not derail careers and dreams.

The Naval Station Apolinario Jalandoon Medical Dispensary in Puerto Princesa City has been revitalized to better serve military personnel and local civilians, particularly those in remote and underserved areas.

His words highlight how quality healthcare not only improves health outcomes but also boosts confidence, morale, and operational readiness— missions that extend beyond clinics and dispensaries.

Ten years on, these projects are more than physical renovations; they also represent a long-term commitment to the well-being of the entire Philippine Navy.

And when the question arises, where will we be in the next ten years?

The answer lies with the ripple of care and commitment that continues to grow, shaping stronger, healthier communities—today, tomorrow, and for the generations of men and women who will wear the uniform in the years to come.

The Naval Base Rafael Ramos Medical and Dental Dispensary in Lapu-Lapu City has been transformed from a small space into a modern medical facility that now provides expanded outpatient, radiology, laboratory, and dental services.

In Legazpi City, the Naval Station Julhasan Arasain Medical and Dental Dispensary has been refurbished to improve patient flow, enhance service delivery, and promote the overall well-being of patients and personnel.

For trainees like Nuestro, the dispensary is more than a facility or a program, it is the difference between uncertainty and hope, between a halted dream and a path forward.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

‘Only 15% of laws have access clauses’

By Ratziel San Juan

T

HE Right to Know, Right Now! Coalition (R2KRN), a coalition of freedom of information (FOI) advocates, released a report that found only 55 (15%) of the 378 laws enacted during the 19th Congress contain at least one transparency-related provision.

‘NO’ TO PRIVATIZATION. Members of consumer, commuter, migrant, labor, and advocacy groups stage a protest outside the Supreme Court

in Manila on June 16, urging magistrates to act on petitions seeking to reverse the privatization of Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Protesters claim the airport’s privatization has led to higher passenger and rental fees, benefiting the operator at the expense of travelers, workers, and small businesses. Norman Cruz

IN BRIEF Mindanao monitored for decaying seafood Villafuerte: LGUs covered By Vince Lopez under Right to Information DEPUTY Majority Leader Luigi Villafuerte of Camarines Sur said local government units (LGUs) are among the government entities covered by the proposed Right to Information (RTI) Act approved by the House of Representatives.

Under Substitute House Bill 9397, all government offices, including LGUs, will be required to designate a Right to Information Officer and a Right to Information Decision Maker to process and monitor requests for information. The measure seeks to institutionalize Filipinos’ constitutional right to access official records, contracts, expenditures, policy papers, and other information of public concern.

Villafuerte, one of the bill’s principal authors, said the proposal also aims to establish a centralized online RTI portal where citizens can file and track requests for government information and documents. It likewise provides for the creation of an RTI Commission to hear appeals, investigate violations, and enforce compliance. Maricel V. Cruz

Vizcarra ushers Isabela town into new era RAMON, Isabela — Ramon is moving beyond its identity as a mere “highway town.”

Under the leadership of Mayor Giovanni Vizcarra, the municipality is building its future on four pillars: tourism, livelihood, health care, and education.

Mayor Giovanni Vizcarra and Vice Mayor Dennis Jon dela Cruz inaugurated two “Welcome to Ramon, Isabela” arches worth P4.7 million at the Santiago-Ramon and San Mateo-Ramon boundaries on June 15. The structures are intended to welcome visitors while symbolizing the town’s development agenda.

“The arches are our first greeting to visitors. But more than that, they declare what Ramon stands for: pride, unity, and progress,” Vizcarra said. He added that attracting tourists and investors would generate revenue, create jobs, and improve services for residents. Jessica M. Bacud

Solon: Expand dialysis, kidney disease coverage

\ THE Philippine Health Insurance Corp.

(PhilHealth) was urged Tuesday to expand its outpatient coverage for dialysis and other renal replacement therapies to make life-saving treatments more accessible to the growing number of Filipinos suffering from kidney disease.

Parañaque 2nd District Rep. Brian Yamsuan made the call amid a sharp rise in chronic kidney disease (CKD) among younger Filipinos. He cited data from the Philippine Renal Disease Registry showing that most cases occur among people aged 20 to 59.

“Medical experts have long sounded the alarm about this silent epidemic afflicting many of our working-age countrymen. Let us not wait until this becomes a full-blown public health crisis,” Yamsuan said as the country observes National Kidney Month in June. He also urged the Department of Health, government hospitals, and dialysis facilities to strengthen public awareness on kidney health. Maricel V. Cruz

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday is monitoring wet markets in coastal communities in Mindanao following reports of seabed uplift and marine life deaths in parts of Sarangani after last week’s magnitude 7.8 earthquake, raising concerns over seafood safety.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed the Police Regional Offices in SOCCSKSARGEN (PRO12) and the Davao Region (PRO-11) to mobilize personnel and prevent potentially contaminated marine life from reaching public markets.

“We are coordinating with con-

cerned government agencies in dealing with this matter with the goal of protecting the public from any potential harm,” Nartatez said.

“I have explicitly directed our local units in the affected areas to establish tight security checkpoints and maritime monitoring points around the uplifted coastal areas in Sarangani and Davao Occidental to strictly prohibit anyone from scavenging or harvesting exposed marine life,” he added.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the earthquake that struck Sarangani on June 8 triggered a severe co-seismic coastal uplift that raised the seabed by as much as two

meters in Glan, Sarangani.

Authorities reported similar conditions in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental.

The geological shift caused seawater to retreat by about 200 meters, exposing large sections of coral reefs and seagrass beds.

As a result, significant numbers of marine organisms, including reef fish, eels, clams, and shellfish, have died, raising concerns about public health risks and the environmental impact of decaying marine life.

Nartatez said strict controls are necessary despite the hardships being faced by communities affected by the earthquake.

The remaining 323 laws (85%) have no explicit transparency clause.

Furthermore, of the 55 laws with transparency provisions, 15 contain privacy provisions, while 13 contain confidentiality provisions that may limit public access to information.

The group identified 190 transparency-related provisions across enacted laws, whether in whole or in part, including 148 transparency provisions and 42 transparency-limiting provisions, consisting of 20 privacy-related and 22 confidentiality-related provisions.

“We found that transparency is neither absent nor systematically embedded. It appears selectively and is at times accompanied by privacy and confidentiality constraints. Moreover, a substantial number of enacted laws have no explicit transparency provisions at all,” R2KRN said in its report.

It likewise found that transparency measures are “concentrated in specific committees and policy sectors rather than institutionalized across all legislation.”

Five committees in the House of Representatives account for a significant share of laws with transparency provisions: Legislative Franchises (six), Science and Technology (five), Ways and Means (five), Basic Education (four), and Higher and Technical Education (four).

The said House panels produced 24 laws, or 44 percent of all measures, with embedded transparency clauses.

Meanwhile, Senate committees that produced laws with transparency-related provisions are Public Services (seven), Ways and Means (six), Agriculture, Food and Agrarian Reform (five), Finance (five), and Science and Technology (five).

This accounted for 28 laws, or 51 percent of those with transparency provisions.

In contrast, several other committees were described as “stingy” in producing laws that promote transparency, showing a “consistent absence of such provisions.”

These include the House committees on Basic Education, Transportation, Local Government, and Justice, as well as the Senate committees on Basic Education, Public Services, Local Government, and Justice and Human Rights.

“This uneven distribution suggests that the integration of transparency provisions is not institutionalized across committees but rather varies significantly by sector and legislative practice. Some committees also produce laws involving, for instance, the renaming of buildings or the declaration of holidays, where transparency is less relevant,” R2KRN said.

Akbayan solon urges PBBM to appoint peace panel chair

By Maricel V. Cruz AKBAYAN Rep. Dadah Kiram Ismula on Tuesday urged President Marcos to immediately appoint a Government of the Philippines (GPH) Peace Panel Implementing Chairperson, a position left vacant after the resignation of Undersecretary Cesar Yano earlier this year.

Ismula emphasized that the appointment would ensure the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) remains fully implemented and on track, including the vital decommissioning process for combatants.

“As we welcome Amun Jadid, President Marcos Jr. must do right by our Muslim Filipino communities in BARMM this Islamic New Year. He can no longer delay the appointment of the GPH Implementing Panel Chair because doing so stalls peace and development,” Ismula said.

Ismula noted that the appointment is urgent given the upcoming Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections, to ensure public trust and confidence in the

normalization track of the peace agreement.

“The immediate appointment of a new GPH Implementing Panel Chair will ensure that decommissioning continues and that the peace process remains on track as the BARMM elections approach,” she said.

Ismula further urged the Chief Executive to continue honoring and upholding the regional autonomy guaranteed to the Bangsamoro people under the peace pact.

“We urge Malacañang to respect the autonomy of the regional government as promised in the CAB by ensuring that the next elections are free, fair, and peaceful,” Ismula added.

“We have a golden opportunity to be one of the most successful peace processes in the world; we cannot squander that,” she said.

“President Marcos Jr. should also certify as urgent the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Act, which is one of the many important dimensions of the normalization track that has yet to be accomplished,” Ismula said.

FATAL CRASH. Rescuers, police, and volunteers respond after a passenger bus crashes into a cargo truck along Marcos Highway in Tuba, Benguet, on June 16. The accident killed a bus conductor and injured six others, who are taken to hospitals in Baguio City for treatment. Dave Leprozo

Infrastructure Asia, PPP Center ink partnership at AIF 2026

By Joel Pinaroc

UNIDENTIFIED DEBRIS. The Philippine Coast Guard responds to a report of unidentified debris bearing foreign markings found along the shoreline of Sitio Talim, Barangay Luyahan in Lian, Batangas, on June 15. Authorities inspect and document the object as part of an ongoing investigation. PCG

SINGAPORE — Infrastructure Asia and the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center of the Philippines signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Tuesday to strengthen cooperation on sustainable infrastructure development.

The MoU is one of four partnership agreements announced during the Asia Infrastructure Forum (AIF) 2026 in Singapore.

The agreement aims to improve project bankability, expand access to financing through innovative mechanisms, and support capacity-building through the exchange of best practices and advisory support on project structuring.

Infrastructure Asia also signed similar agreements with the Indonesia Infrastructure Guarantee Fund, the Private Infrastructure Development Group, and the World

Bank Group.

The event showcased more than 15 infrastructure projects across South and Southeast Asia with a combined estimated value exceeding $16 billion.

Featured projects included the Metro Manila Subway Project in the Philippines, the Madhya Pradesh Battery Energy Storage System Programme in India, and Indonesia’s Intermediate Treatment Facility Sunter Waste-to-Energy Project.

AIF 2026 gathered more than 800 government leaders, investors, project developers, and industry stakeholders under the theme “Bold Actions for a Sustainable Asia.”

According to Infrastructure Asia, many of the projects are expected to enter the market within the next two years, creating opportunities for companies involved in infrastructure development, financing, and advisory services.

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026

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EDITORIAL

Making up for lost days

The long road of learning A NEW school year has begun for millions of Filipino learners, bringing a significant change: the shift from the traditional four-quarter system to a three-term academic calendar.

For many families, this may seem like a simple scheduling adjustment. Yet it reflects a broader effort to improve how our education system serves learners, teachers, and communities.

Through the work of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), we have gained a clearer understanding of the realities facing Philippine education.

We see the learning gaps that have emerged over time, the pressures on teachers, governance challenges, and the need to better connect education with jobs, opportunity, and national development.

While these findings highlight serious concerns, they also offer reasons for optimism.

Meaningful reform becomes possible when institutions listen, assess challenges honestly, collaborate, and remain committed to lasting solutions. Education shapes economic growth, social mobility, civic participation, community resilience, and national competitiveness.

This is why education reform is about more than policies or programs. It asks a fundamental question: Do we have the collective resolve to build the future we want?

The evidence is before us, and the roadmap is taking shape. The task now is to sustain the journey.

At its heart is the learner, whose growth unfolds across many stages of life.

A child enters school full of curiosity and progresses through basic education before choosing among higher education, technical-vocational training, employment, entrepreneurship, or further specialization. Throughout adulthood, skills must be developed, strengthened, and renewed.

Learning never stands still because life itself continues to move.

Recognizing this reality means viewing education not as separate experiences but as a connected pathway, where each stage influences the next.

With this perspective in mind, three factors deserve our attention: continuity, coordination and commitment.

First, continuity. Education works best when every level supports the next.

Early childhood education builds foun-

dational skills.

Basic education prepares learners for further study and work. Higher education and technical-vocational training provide specialized knowledge and practical skills. Lifelong learning helps workers adapt in a changing economy.

A strong education system resembles a bridge built section by section, enabling learners to move confidently toward the future.

—“—

The road ahead calls for continuity, coordination, and commitment Second, coordination. Responsibility for learning is shared. Schools, universities, training centers, employers, local governments, national agencies, and communities all contribute to learner success.

When these stakeholders work toward a common goal, policies become more effective, resources have greater impact, and opportunities become more accessible.

Third, commitment. Lasting progress depends on sustained commitment.

Real reform requires patience, persistence, and steady execution.

Many of the most important educational gains happen quietly: a teacher receives better support, a student stays in school and graduates, a worker gains new skills and secures a better job, or a family achieves greater stability through educational opportunity.

Though often unnoticed, these everyday achievements collectively help build a stronger, more prosperous nation.

As another school year begins, education remains our most enduring investment in people. Every reform, policy, and innovation ultimately serves the learner.

The road ahead calls for continuity, coordination, and commitment. These principles can guide us toward an education system that empowers every Filipino to learn, grow, contribute, and succeed.

The future we seek is already taking shape in our classrooms. Our responsibility is to support learners and ensure that every step forward contributes to national progress.

Delivering development in times of explosive global volatility (First of two parts)

By Kanni Wignaraja and Christophe Bahuet SOUTHEAST Asia, like much of the world, faces an increasingly uncertain risk landscape.

Economic and climate shocks are intensifying; conflict-induced tensions have disrupted global trade and energy markets; and fiscal space is tightening with demands on public spending rising rapidly. All of this makes it hard to secure economic, energy and human security.

Recent conflict escalation in the Middle East has put pressure on several drivers of the Philippines’ growth story – a dynamic import-export economy, service sector growth, significant remittance revenues, and robust foreign direct investment.

Combined with inflationary pressures on households and firms, these pressures are adding to fiscal strain and forcing difficult policy choices. Whether these amount to real trade-offs remains unclear.

This picture is further strained by intensifying natural disasters that already cost ASEAN economies billions of dollars each year.

In the Philippines alone, recorded post-disaster reconstruction needs have

reached at least P132 billion over the last decade.

What is at stake is not only economic growth but also progress in human development – expanding jobs and skills for young people, protecting livelihoods and access to essential services, and enabling communities to withstand shocks and recover.

—“—

In the Philippines alone, recorded post-disaster reconstruction needs have reached at least P132 billion over the last decade The Southeast Asia region has achieved textbook progress over recent decades—lifting millions out of poverty, expanding access to services, finance and a business ecosystem, all the time strengthening regional integration and security.

The central question is how to sustain and grow these gains in a context of greater external shocks and volatility.

W

E WELCOME President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for Congress to hold a special session today.

According to the Palace, today’s meeting should cover priority bills and appointments. Most especially, lawmakers should talk about what needs to be done for earthquake victims and other vulnerable sectors amid the various crises that the country is experiencing.

These concerns do not go on breaks even as lawmakers do, he said.

Drama marked the adjournment sine die of Congress, specifically the Senate, on June 3. It was the culmination of a tense four-week period that involved the surprise appearance of a fugitive to enable a Senate coup, a staircase chase, a change in committee leadership, gunshots later on found to be warning shots from Senate security, a dawn escape, tearful recriminations, many Facebook Live sessions, an attempt to introduce online participation in sessions even without force majeure, a walkout, the arrest of another senator on plunder charges, an admonition from the Senate President for his colleagues not to attend sessions, and the surprise appearance of an embattled senator tipping the balance of power. All Senate positions were declared vacant, a new Senate leader – albeit just a pro-tempore – was installed, and committees were redistributed anew. As recently as last week, there were threats to the

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Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

Lawmakers have been shortchanging the people There are legitimate conversations to be had. For example, the anti-political dynasty bill remains controversial, and many are concerned that while so named, its provisions still provide convenient loopholes for prominent families to remain in power across generations. The people are fully aware that the very people who are making this decision are themselves products of the system, but they must,

PARIS – Ever felt like mosquitoes bite you while ignoring everyone else?

Scientists are now making progress in deciphering the complex chemical cocktail that makes particular people more enticing to these disease-spreading bloodsuckers.

“It’s not a misconception -- mosquitoes are attracted to some people more than others,” Frederic Simard of France’s Institute of Research for Development told AFP. “But we are not all magnets all the time,” the medical entomologist added.

A range of sensory cues can cause mosquitoes to pick one human over another -- mainly the smell and heat our bodies give off, and the carbon dioxide we exhale.

Female mosquitoes -- which are the only ones that bite -- detect these signals with finely-tuned receptors, then choose their target accordingly.

“We have known for over 100 years that mosquitoes are attracted by the carbon dioxide that we exhale -- this is the first signal that triggers their behaviour” when they are dozens of metres away, Swedish scientist Rickard Ignell told AFP. Within around 10 metres, “mosquitoes will start detecting our odour, and in combination with carbon dioxide,” this attracts them even more, said the senior author of a recent study on the subject.

As they get closer, body temperature and humidity make particular humans even more enticing.

Blood type doesn’t matter However some popular theories on this subject do not hold water.

The idea that mosquitoes prefer particular blood types “has no scientific basis,” Simard said.

“There have been some studies, but

only involving very few people,” he said. “Nor is it related to skin, eye or hair color,” he added.

Odour, on the other hand, matters greatly.

“A soup of molecules produced by our microbiota is more -- or less -- appealing to mosquitoes,” Simard explained.

Humans release between 300 and 1,000 different odorous compounds, research has shown, but scientists are only just beginning to understand which ones attract mosquitoes.

For Ignell’s recent study, the researchers released Aedes aegypti mosquitoes -- known for spreading yellow fever and dengue -- on 42 women in a lab, to see which ones they preferred.

“We have shown that mosquitoes use a blend of odorous compounds (we identified 27 that the mosquitoes will detect, out of the possible 1,000) for their attraction to us,” Ignell said.

The woman the mosquitoes most liked to bite -- which included pregnant women in their second trimester -- produced a large amount of a particular compound made by a breakdown of the skin oil se-

bum.

That even a small increase of this compound -- called “1-octen-3-ol”, or mushroom alcohol -- made a difference came as a surprise, Ignell emphasised.

“Mosquitoes are fascinating creatures,” he added.

Beer makes you attractive Drinking beer has also been linked to attracting mosquitoes, because it raises body temperature, increases the amount of exhaled CO2 and changes skin odor, according to several studies.

For standardized research conducted in Burkina Faso, some brave volunteers drank beer, then several days later water, to see which mosquitoes preferred.

The Anopheles mosquito, which can spread malaria, was more enticed by the scent of the beer drinkers.

For a 2023 study in the Netherlands, 465 volunteers put their arms in cages filled with female Anopheles mosquitoes.

The volunteers who had drunk beer in the previous 24 hours were 1.35 times more attractive to the mosquitoes.

Discovering why mosquitoes prefer particular people has becoming a more pressing issue as climate change expands the range where they roam.

For example, the tiger mosquito, a vector for the chikungunya virus, is spreading into new areas. Last year, chikungunya reached as far north as France’s Alsace region for the first time.

“This risk is affecting more and more people,” Simard said.

So what can you do to avoid getting bitten?

Try loose-fitting clothing that covers your skin, mosquito nets and repellent, Simard advised.

“Try to eat light meals -- and go easy on the alcohol,” he added. AFP

As ASEAN Chair, the Philippines is uniquely positioned to help shape a forward-leaning agenda that addresses current and future risk in more informed and better prepared ways, to respond to immediate shocks while addressing longerterm structural challenges.

The Philippines’ national experience demonstrates how risk-informed local planning, climate adaptation and decentralized economic governance can be advanced in an integrated manner.

Its role as Chair offers an opportunity to elevate these approaches at the regional level, while learning from others, on the best ways to align national reforms with collaborative ASEAN action in areas of collective interest.

In this context, three priorities stand

out for the countries in this region, First, integrating the cost of climate risk into the planning and delivery of public and private investments.

An anticipatory approach requires systematically integrating risk analysis into local, national, and regional development plans, sector strategies, and factoring this into major public and private investment decisions and delivery.

This is especially important for critical infrastructure and services.

In practice, this requires applying, coordinating, and monitoring regulations and standards so that infrastructure development and service delivery are riskinformed and properly costed. Several ASEAN countries are already moving in this direction.

Indonesia is linking adaptation planning with climate budgeting; Viet Nam is strengthening climate-resilient infrastructure planning; and in the Philippines, local governments are increasingly using risk data to guide investment decisions and project design.

Clear national policy and regulatory frameworks help development partners align support, ensuring resources reinforce rather than bypass these priorities and measures.

(Kanni Wignaraja is an Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations, UNDP Assistant Administrator, and Director of the UNDP Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific, while Christophe Bahuet is UNDP Resident Representative in the Philippines.)

—“—

Discovering why mosquitoes prefer particular people has becoming a more pressing issue as climate change expands the range where they roam

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser ROLANDO G. ESTABILLO Publisher

can be accessed at: manilastandard.net

MEMBER

—“—

Why are some people mosquito magnets?

Clues are emerging

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno

Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City.

Telephone numbers 8-5646225 and 8-5646229 (connecting all departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, (Advertising) 832-5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www.manilastandard.net

security of the Senate, prompting a work-from-home arrangement. Hackers also defaced the web site.

As of press time, the former Senate President clings desperately to his post. Unfortunately for him, even the lawyers of the political family he so staunchly defends recognized the authority of his rival.

It is our hope that today’s session will once and for all settle whatever questions there might be on the new Senate leadership, and that this transpires without histrionics so that the work could begin in earnest.

at the very least, acknowledge this anomaly and exhibit a sincere desire to challenge the status quo.

We must also seriously dive into the flood control scandal minus the machinations of wily personalities out to save their skins. The rainy season is beginning, and soon there will be typhoons and flooding again.

People will remember, with greater anger and indignation, how funds meant for their protection instead fattened the bank accounts of hypocrites proclaiming they were public servants.

The elephant in the room, of course, is the impeachment trial of the Vice President, slated to begin July 6. For an orderly trial to proceed and for the truth to come out, we need sensible Senate leadership not driven by personal loyalties or animosities.

There are witnesses to be heard and documents to be presented. Let the public hear and see -- and then make up their own minds instead of parroting scripts.

Precious Senate days were lost in the chaos of the past few weeks.

In the meantime, the senators derived their salaries and reaped their privileges even if they did not get any work done, or worse, refused to work, on those days It is only fitting that lawmakers convene today and make up for lost time. They should acknowledge that they have been shortchanging Fililipinos with their behavior, and know that we are watching them.

Mario R. Policarpio Jr. Head - Finance

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US ‘to build stockpile in Australia’ S

YDNEY – The US military is planning a permanent war-ready weapons stockpile for its Marine Corps on Australia’s southeast coast beyond the range of most Chinese missiles, tender documents show and officials confirmed to AFP. The development of the stockpile, a first for the Marine Corps in Australia, comes as the United States is keen to leverage the continent’s strategic location in the South Pacific to counter China’s rapid military build-up, analysts said.

The US Marines Corps began global prepositioning of military supplies during the Cold War -- using floating stores on ships and caves in Norway where weapons, ammunition and vehicles to sustain thousands of troops are kept.

The first land stockpile in the Asia-Pacific is expected to open this year in the Philippines, close to potential flashpoints in the South China Sea. Documents published by the US Navy this month show advanced planning for an even larger Australian stockpile, with $30 million allocated to build warehouses and offices in southeastern Victoria state for “critical forward provisioning”.

The Australian stockpile, expected to reach full capacity by 2028, will be kept in Melbourne before being moved to US warehouses to be constructed next year at an Australian military base at Bandiana in rural Victoria, tender documents show.

Manila Australia does not permit foreign miliStandard tary basesTODAY on its soil, a sensitive issue in a Manila

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Position title: Coordinator - People Services Global (Portuguese) Vacancy (1) Job Description: The Coordinator – People Services Global Hub provide first level advice and support on key foundation and transactional activities(employee lifecycle, policies and procedures, HR systems) to the HR team, Line Managers and Employees within Orice which enables key customers to enhance workplace relations and productivity in line with Business Strategy, Custodians of administrations of all HR data.

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Seventy new sanctions actions “will choke EVIAN, France – The UK is imposing a raft of Russia’s war effort across multiple fronts” by new sanctions against Russia, including on tanktargeting Russia’s illicit “shadow fleet,” military ers that transport LNG, in a bid to pressure Mosprocurement supply chain and finance networks cow into halting the war against Ukraine, Prime used to circumvent sanctions, Starmer’s office Minister Keir Starmer announced as a special said.

G7 summit session got underway Tuesday.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK The actions against the so-called “shadow Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky fleet” -- used by Russia to transport energy and is attending the summit of seven leading world other assets under a different flag -- target more powers in the French resort town of Evian-lesthan 20 oil tankers.

Bains, with allies looking to tilt the balance in Starmer’s office said the United Kingdom Kyiv’s favour after over four years of war and inis now the first G7 country to sanction several tensify pressure on Russian President Vladimir Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) vessels recently Putin. acquired by Russia to service an already sanc“Working with our G7 allies, we will contioned Arctic LNG project. tinue to increase the pressure on Putin and his The British premier -- under pressure at home circle of collaborators until Russia’s war maafter his defence minister resigned in a row over chine is brought to a military spending last week -- is to tell leaders halt and peace returns NOTICE FOR THE PUBLICATION OF at the session that “the G7 should collectively go to our continent,” said THE EXTRAJUDICIAL further to ensure Ukraine secures the just and Starmer.

SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF IRMA DELA lasting peace it deserves”.

The talks are taking CRUZ PEÑAFUERTE Starmer’s office also announced a deal to place after a Russian Notice is hereby given that the Extrajudicial Settlement send enriched uranium to fuel Ukrainian nuclear barrage of missiles and of the Estate of the deceased power stations which would “power Ukraine for drones early Monday Irma Dela Cruz Peñafuerte, who died on 21 May 2025, the next two years”. killed at least 11 peohas been executed by her heirs on May 6, 2026. (Doc. Some £210 million ($282 million) worth of ple across Ukraine and No. 249, Page No. 51, Book No. II, series of 2026) before export finance will allow the UK-based Uresparked a fire at one of Notary Public Atty. Armin L nco to supply enriched uranium to Ukraine’s the most important OrRoxas, declaring that the deceased ha no outstanding nuclear power producer, Energoatom, it said. thodox monasteries in debts, obligation or liabilities at the time of her death.

AFP the capital.

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SURVIVAL TEST. A French Marine Firefighter (center) of the Bataillon de Marins-Pompiers de Marseille wearing the Eurosuit, a European Spacesuit by Spartan Space is evacuated from the water on a stretcher assisted by French Marine Firefighters after taking part in an aquatic survival test campaign carried out by the BMPM in L’Estaque, north of Marseille, south-eastern France the other day. A survival test campaign carried is part ofYELLOW the development CYAN out MAGENTA BLACKof EUROSUIT, a European spacesuit project led by Spartan Space, leader of the industrial consortium on behalf of the Center National d’Etudes Spatiales-CNES. AFP

UK ups Russia sanctions to bring ‘war machine to halt’— Starmer

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country that has a security alliance with the United States and is hosting an increasing variety of US forces on rotation at Australian defence bases.

The US Navy is engaging a global defence contractor to employ around 110 engineers, mechanics, material and safety specialists to manage the Australian stockpile, which includes “crew-served weapons”, the documents show.

“Marine Corps activities in Australia support integrated global sustainment by maintaining ready-for-issue equipment and supplies for operations and exercises across the Indo-Pacific,” a US Marine Corps Forces Pacific spokesperson told AFP. The spokesperson declined to comment on contract details or force planning assumptions but said Marines equipment is kept at “high readiness”.

Contracting arrangements and the operation of the facility would be made in close coordination with Australia’s Department of Defence.

“These activities improve responsiveness, strengthen interoperability with allies and partners, and support a range of missions across the Indo-Pacific,” the spokesperson said , using an alternative description for the Asia-Pacific region. AFP

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DELIVERY OF VARIOUS LINE MATERIALS FOR RECONDUCTORING OF CIRCUIT 7C

Applications may be sent to: Upon ₱14,949,964.91 CAPEX receipt of Name of Company HR: Jhona Lacao Notice to Email address: max888motors@gmail.com Proceed

Wind Turbine Generator (WTG) Inspector (1 Vacancy) Job Description: - Responsible for representing the company as a Renewable Power Specialist, particularly as a Wind Turbine Expert/Engineer: Pre-Construction Phase • Review of contractor’s submittals for Wind Turbine and Generator aspects of the project • Provide comments on contractor’s technical documents for completeness and conformance to contractual and regulatory stipulations • Provide technical/engineering support as required • Review of technical drawings, engineering and performance tests, including preparation, and participation in design review meetings with contractors • Review, comment, update and support the client in the development and management of integrated project schedules through coordination with contractors • Support review of design change submittals Construction Phase • Site Representation, as necessary • Review construction and installation progress; • Perform Quality Assurance audits of Contractor’s quality control plan and documents; • Review Third-party testing report for compliance; Start Up and Commissioning Phase • Site Representation, as necessary • Review start-up and commissioning progress; • Perform Quality Assurance audits of Contractor’s quality control plan and documents; • Review Third-party testing and commissioning report for compliance; Accountabilities • Provide timely reports on reviews, assessment and audits conducted • Attend to site works, as necessary, to represent the client interests throughout the project • Submit timely comments on technical document and drawing reviews • Verify and sign off on test and inspection certificates, as offered by the contractors • Other works N+1 will assign Qualification (Education, Experience, Professional License, Skills Certification, Specialized Training): • Bachelors Degree in engineering, or any related specialization • At least minimum of 5 years experience in WTG engineering involved in the development, technical design, construction and/or commissioning and O&M phases of renewable energy projects • Excellent people manager, open to direction and collaborative work style and commitment to get the job done High comfort level working in a diverse environment • Complies with applicable customer specifications, regulatory standards, international best practices and other requirements Applications may be sent to: Dana Shannen Magalona-Te dana.magalonate@bureauveritas.com Company/ Employer

Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position

Company Name: BUREAU VERITAS S.A. Complete address: 32nd Flr. Philamlife Tower 8767 Paseo de Roxas Makati City 1227 Metro Manila Nature of business: Testing and Inspection Certification

Name: MANH TU NGO Address: MAKATI CITY Nationality: VIETNAMESE Intended period of employment: Two (2) years

Company hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position. The company has the intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment - National Capital Region located at 967 Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila.

₱25,000.00

Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position

Company /Employer

LABOR AND

Company Name: MATERIALS, MAX888CONSTRUCTION MOTORS, INC.

Career Opportunity in BUREAU VERITAS S.A

₱25,000.00

Name:

MS. LUO, PIAOXUE

Lot 1: Address: Point Tower, Park Terraces, West Street, OF 69KV LINE WITH ₱29,902,051.50; DAYS Makati City Company Address: San60 Lorenzo, 23KV UNDERBUILT 2: Upon MAX888 MOTORS, 2724 FaradayLot Street BAC-15-San Isidro, LINE AND DOUBLE Makati City Nationality: Chinese ₱29,629,412.25 CAPEX receipt of ₱25,000.00 ₱25,000.00 2026 CKT. THREE PHASE Lot 3: Notice to Nature of business: Intended period of employment: Three (3) years PRIMARY LINE ₱29,765,731.88 Proceed A domestic corporation engaged in EXTENSION FROM primarily the business of BANGUI retail and trade of motorvehicles MALASIN, including dealership and providing services.

TO BARUYEN, PAGUDPUD

Max888 Motors, Inc. hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to Prospective Bidders should have completed a similar contract, and have key personnel and pertorm the services and job description for this position. The company has the intention to employ the said equipment available for the execution of the contract.

Check/Screening, as well as the foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit The with Eligibility the Department of Labor and Employment Preliminary Examination of Bids,Region shall use non-discretionary criteria.

Post-qualification of National Capital located at 967 Maligaya“pass/fail” Street, Malate, Manila. the Any Lowest Calculated Bid (LCB) shall be conducted.

All particulars relative to Eligibility Statement Filipino jobseeker who is competent, able and willing to perform the services for which the foreign and national Screening, Bid Security, Performance Security, Pre-Bidding Conference, Evaluation of -Bids, is intended to be hired for, may file an objection at Department of Labor and Employment Post Qualification and Award shall be governed by theafter pertinent provisions of the NEA National Capital Region locatedof at Contract 967 Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila this publication Please inform Procurement Guidelines and Simplified- Region BiddingNCR, Procedures for Electric Cooperatives.

Department of Labor and Employment if you have any information on criminal offenses committed by the foreign national.

To complete schedule of activities is listed, as follows: Procurement Activity

Date

Conditions/Remarks

Advertisement/Posting of Invitation to Bid

June 17,2026

Start of Availability of Bidding Documents

Pre-Bid Conference

June 24, 2026

10:00 AM at INEC Training Room, Main Office, Brgy. Suyo, Dingras, Ilocos Norte

Deadline of Submission INVITATION and Receipt of TO APPLY July 06, 2026 10:00 TO AM at INEC Main Office, Brgy. Suyo, FOR ELIGIBILITY AND BID Bids, and Bid Opening Dingras, Ilocos Norte BidThe Evaluation & Post Qualification July 07-10, 2026 MainitsOffice, Brgy.Awards Suyo, Dingras, ILOCOS NORTE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. (INEC)INEC through Bids and Committee Nortefor and bid for the following: (BAC) is inviting all interested manufacturers, and distributors of goodsIlocos to apply Issuance of Notice of Award

To be announced

To be announced

Accreditation NonName of Project Source Completion Fee Refundable Bid No.Interested (Brief ABC further of bidders may obtain information from INEC through and its Fund Period (valid for 1 the BAC Fees/Bid Description) Secretariat located in INEC Main Office, Brgy. Suyo, Dingras, Ilocos Norte.year) documents

INEC reserves the right to accept or reject any bid, to annul the bidding process and to reject

AND to contract award, without thereby 30 DAYS all bids at anySUPPLY time prior incurring any liability to the affected BAC-09DELIVERY OF Upon receipt bidder or bidders. ₱13,800,000.00 GF ₱25,000.00 ₱25,000.00 2026 VEHICLE TRUCK of Notice to 3 IN 1 Proceed

For further information, please refer to: THE INEC BAC SECRETARIAT SUPPLY AND Cooperative, Inc. (INEC) Ilocos Norte Electric 30 DAYS DELIVERY OF BAC-10-Brgy. Suyo, Upon receipt Norte OF Dingras, VEHICLE Ilocos ₱10,000,000.00 GF 2026 Email : bidsawardc@gmail.com of Notice to (Lorena T. Bungcayao) BOOM TRUCK Proceed Contact Nos. : (077) 600-46-32 loc. 1101; 09608179844 WITH DIGGER (077) 600-46-32 loc. 1301; 09611003849 BAC-112026

Noted by:

SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF OF VEHICLE BOOM TRUCK CRANE 5 TONS DELIVERY OF OF VEHICLE MANLIFT

BAC-132026

SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF MINI WHEELED EXCAVATOR W/ JACK HAMMER

₱25,000.00

30 DAYS

₱12,000,000.00

CAPEX

(Sgd.) ENGR. ALBERTO C. ACERET Upon receipt ₱25,000.00 Chairman of Notice to BAC₱25,000.00 Proceed

(Sgd.) MR. CIPRIANO E. MARTINEZ III SUPPLY AND General Manager

BAC-122026

₱25,000.00

₱7,300,000.00

GF

30 DAYS Upon receipt of Notice to Proceed

₱10,000.00

₱10,000.00

₱12,000,000.00

GF

30 DAYS Upon receipt of Notice to Proceed

₱25,000.00

₱25,000.00

G7 powers in push with Zelenskyy to end war

EVIAN-LES-BAINS, France – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday joined a summit of the G7 group of leading powers seeking to up pressure on Russia to end the war against his country.

The talks at the French resort of Evian-les-Bains notably brought Zelenskyy face-to-face with US President Donald Trump, who has sought to reach out to Russian President Vladimir Putin but also showed signs of losing patience with Russia.

Zelensky was warmly greeted by host President Emmanuel Macron, who has in recent months helped drive European efforts to pile pressure on Russia.

The Ukrainian president’s attendance at the special morning session kicked off the second day of the threeday meeting, which will be followed later in the day by a session on Iran to be attended by Arab leaders.

European leaders will be keen to remind Trump of the importance of pushing Russia to accept peace on Kyiv’s terms and not pressure Ukraine into making concessions to Moscow.

Zelensky on Monday urged a “decisive and substantive” response from the G7 leaders after the latest wave of Russian strikes, which killed at least 11 people and sparked a fire at a landmark Kyiv cathedral.

He revealed he had proposed a meeting with Putin at the G7 in France, but that Moscow was “not ready” for it.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Later Monday, Zelensky also said he had suggested to Trump that he could meet Putin in the United States, suggesting the Kremlin strongman would find such an offer “harder to refuse.”

Trump, who spoke by phone to both Zelensky and Putin, expressed optimism as he arrived at the summit Monday and said that “maybe we can do something” on Ukraine at the G7.

“They’re both open to it,” he said.

“I had two very good conversations yesterday,” the US president added, without giving further details.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said ahead of the G7 summit session that the United Kingdom plans to supply enriched uranium to Ukraine for its nuclear power stations and impose new sanctions against Russia. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

NEWS IN BRIEF Multi-nation KAMANDAG

military exercise rolls out THE Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) and the United States Marine Corps (USMC) formally opened the 10th iteration of the annual Kaagapay ng mga Mandirigma Mula sa Dagat (KAMANDAG) Exercise on Monday, bringing together military forces from several allied and partner-countries for a series of joint training activities across the Philippines.

The opening ceremony was held at Acero Hall inside Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

This year’s exercise includes participating forces from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) and the Republic of Korea Marine Corps (ROKMC), while representatives from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and Thailand are joining as observers.

According to the PMC, training activities will be conducted in Northern Luzon, Central Luzon, Palawan, TawiTawi, Manila, and Cavite as part of efforts to strengthen interoperability and improve readiness among participating forces. Rex Espiritu

A7

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

‘Flawed’ anti-dynasty bill nixed S

By Othel V. Campos

EVERAL business and civic organizations have urged the Senate to reject House Bill No. 8389, arguing that the measure would entrench rather than curb political dynasties in the country.

In a joint statement, at least seven organizations said the measure which recently passed third and final reading in the House of Representatives, fails to fulfill the 1987 Constitution’s mandate to prohibit political dynasties, but institutionalizes instead the continued dominance of political families.

The groups said HB 8389 limits its prohibition to relatives within the second degree of consanguinity or affinity and only within the same political unit, leaving significant loopholes that would allow political clans to retain power across different levels of government.

According to the statement, the pro-

posed law would still permit members of the same family to simultaneously occupy key positions such as governor, congressman, and mayor within a province, while other relatives hold national posts including senator, vice president, or president.

The organizations also argued that the bill would allow termed-out officials to pass their positions directly to spouses, children, or siblings without any waiting period, while enabling relatives to swap positions once their respective terms expire.

They added that relatives beyond the second degree, including uncles, aunts, and cousins, would remain largely unrestricted under the proposed law.

“This is not reform but protection of dynasties,” the groups said, warning that political dynasties limit opportunities for independent candidates, concentrate public resources within family networks, and contribute to persistent poverty and governance problems in many provinces.

The organizations called on the Senate to refrain from acting on the measure and urged the President to veto the bill should it reach Malacañang.

They also backed the “Dapat Isa Lang” campaign being pushed by the People’s Initiative Coalition Against Dynasties (PICAD), which seeks stricter limits on political dynasties through a people’s initiative.

DON’T TRY THIS AT HOME. A boy

shows his friends the somersault trick as he dives into the sea from a pier at the Basco, Batanes waterfront, apparently to wash off the school opening blues they encountered on Monday. Dave Leprozo

American sex offender barred from entering PH THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has barred a 48-year-old American classified as a registered sex offender from entering the country.

The passenger, identified as Cabbot Allen Sanders, arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 aboard a Korean Air flight from Seoul, South Korea.

Immigration officers intercepted Sanders upon arrival after verification through international law enforcement database revealed a derogatory record involving sexual offenses against a minor. Records showed that he was convicted in 1998 for communicating with a minor for immoral purposes.

Sanders was booked on the next available f light out of the country for being an undesirable alien under the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940. Vito Barcelo

Pagasa predicts at least nine typhoons this year THE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) foresees nine to 13 tropical cyclones to enter the Philippine area of responsibility until December 2026.

Ana Liza Solis, Pagasa’s Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section chief, said despite the El Niño phenomenon, rainfall would not be unusual.

“Historically speaking, there are times that there will be typhoon and super typhoon category,” she said.

“There are also instances (the categor y) is just a tropical stor m, a low pressure area, but it is rainy in times of southwest monsoon or ‘hanging habagat,’” she added.

R io N. Araja

Manila

Standard

TODAY

New state prosecutors take oath at Palace

By Pot Chavez PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has administered the oath of office to 56 newly appointed prosecutors of the Department of Justice (DOJ), as the agency continues to pursue reforms aimed at strengthening the country’s justice system.

The oath-taking ceremony was held last week at the Presidential Hall in Malacañang Palace.

In his message, Mr. Marcos commended the DOJ for implementing key reforms since 2022 and recognized the important role of prosecutors in upholding the rule of law.

“You have chosen this difficult yet noble calling in the service of justice,” the President told the newly minted prosecutors.

Mr. Marcos cited several accomplishments of the DOJ, including the establishment of new regional, city, and provincial prosecution offices nationwide, the expansion of prosecutor positions from 2,756 to 3,407, and the increase in prosecution attorney positions from 210 to 510.

He also noted the improvement in the prosecution success rate of the National Prosecution Service (NPS), which rose from 89.94 percent to 90.84 percent.

The President likewise highlighted

the DOJ’s efforts to strengthen prosecution policies and guidelines, particularly through Department Circular No. 015, which raised the standard of proof required before filing criminal cases in court from “probable cause” to “prima facie evidence with reasonable certainty of conviction.”

Among those promoted were Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Deana P. Perez, Regional Prosecutor Prima Jesusa B. Quinsayas-Mangelen of Region XII, City Prosecutor Alfred A. Ganaban of the Office of the City Prosecutor in Baguio City, and Julius R. Cesar of the Office of the City Prosecutor in Tagbilaran City.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES COMMISSION ON APPOINTMENTS Twentieth Congress

ANNOUNCEMENT President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has submitted to the Commission on Appointments (CA), for confirmation, the ad interim appointment of: Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ALFREDO G. ANTONIO JR. to the rank of Brigadier General The public may submit any information, written report, or sworn/notarized complaints or oppositions to the above ad interim appointment in seven (7) copies to the CA Secretariat, 6th Floor, PNB Financial Center, D. Macapagal Blvd., Pasay City, Metro Manila.

For the schedule of the public hearings, the CA Secretariat can be reached through telephone numbers 8834-2713, 8831-1824, 8831-0527, 8832-9830, 88342706 and 8551-1989.

15 June 2026.

MYRA MARIE D. VILLARICA Secretary (MS-JUNE 17, 2026)

RANDOM DRUG TESTING.

The General Trias City government conducts random drug tests on nearly 1,500 village security personnel at a sports complex in Barangay Santiago, during which the barangay tanods also received their remunerations.

Dennis Abrina

Manila-based Japanese paper literally writes ‘30’ THE Daily Manila Shimbun, a Japanese-language newspaper based in the Philippine capital, has officially ceased publication after more than three decades, Kyodo News learned Tuesday.

The daily’s website appeared to have been taken down and its main social media accounts have not been updated for some time.

Most of the editorial and sales staff had reportedly quit by March, according to

multiple former employees and other people familiar with the matter.

A former senior staff member said the paper’s finances had deteriorated in recent years.

Former staff members also said the company had failed to pay wages for the month January onward, resulting in an ongoing labor dispute seeking back pay.

Rentals for its office has also been left unpaid.

Kyodo News contacted the

paper by email to confirm the situation but did not receive a response.

The daily traced its origins to a predecessor launched in 1992 and adopted its current name in 1996. It pushed a shift to digital as print circulation fell.

The management’s problems worsened after allegations surfaced in 2024 that a former Japanese president was involved in an investment fraud scheme, which damaged the outlet’s reputation. Kyodo M. Standard - June 17, 2026

SPORTS

A8

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

Iran’s defender Ramin Rezaeian celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the 2026 World Cup Group G football match between Iran and New Zealand at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood. AFP

Iran snatches draw in World Cup opener

PH hopes in PH ADT Open rest on Ramos, Que, Jahns

By Jeremiah Sevilla

T

ARLAC CITY—Sean Ramos is looking to bank on his familiarity of the course at the Luisita Golf and Country Club as the rising star headlines the Filipino cast alongside Keanu Jahns and Angelo Que in the inaugural BingoPlus Philippine Asian Development Tour (ADT) Open that fires off Wednesday here.

“I’ve played this course like a million times before, even as an amateur under the national team. The course has never changed ever since then,” said Ramos, who is currently the highest-ranked Filipino on the ADT Order of Merit standings at No. 10.

“The conditions are really good, though. I think they’re the best I’ve seen. So I’m gonna play the same

way as I did before and hopefully it works,” added the 23-year-old golfer.

Ramos launches his campaign in the $100,000 (P6 million) tournament with USA’s Henry Chung and Thailand’s Nitithorn Thippong on the first tee at 7:20 a.m.

Seasoned Philippine Golf Tour campaigner Jahns, for his part, will need to rediscover his touch at Luisita as he returns to the course after seven years.

“I always enjoy coming back here. I have very good memories of this place. They did add a few tee boxes where the course is a bit longer from the last time I played,” said Jahns, who gets his campaign going with England’s Thomas Plumb and South Korea’s Seung Park at 12:25 p.m.

“The greens are a little tricky this year. Hopefully, I could read the greens pretty well and put up a great result,” added the Filipino-German veteran.

Three-time Asian Tour champion Que also sees action in the ADT Open with the hopes of sustaining the momentum from his victory in the Caliraya

Springs Championship last month.

The former top Filipino golfer is set to tee off at 11:50 a.m. from No. 10 together with India’s Aman Raj and Thailand’s Poom Pattaropong.

Marcial heads to Japan for training camp

Champ Italy leads field in Volleyball Nations League A STACKED field of champions and medalists headlines the Philippine leg of the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) starting on Wednesday at Philsports Arena in Pasig.

World No. 1 and reigning VNL champion Italy banners the cast as the flagship annual international competition of volleyball’s world governing body FIVB, returns to the country.

Japan, VNL silver medalist in 2024, enters the Philippine leg—presented by the Philippine Sports Commission—carrying momentum with a 4-0 win-loss record. Italy, threetime champion US and world No. 13 Czechia are at 3-1.

Starring skipper Mayu Ishikawa, Yoshino Sato and Yukiko Wada, Japan scored victories over France, Ukraine, Germany and Canada.

With Ekaterina Antropova, Merit Adigwe and Loveth Omoruyi leading the way, Italy zoomed past Bulgaria, Netherlands and Turkiye before Brazil ended their run.

No. 9 Serbia has managed one win in four matches, while 12th-ranked Dominican Republic is still seeking its first victory of the campaign.

World No. 7 USA battles the Dominican Republic in the 12 p.m. match on Wednesday, before Czechia and Italy clash at 4 p.m. Japan and Serbia face off at 8 p.m.

Each team plays 12 matches in the group stage, with the top eight advancing to the finals in Macau.

The Philippine leg features Pool 5 in Week 2 of the competition. Other hosts of pool play of the prestigious event are Canada, Brazil, China, Türkiye, Thailand, Serbia, Hong Kong and Japan.

Shown here are (clockwise) Angelo Que, Keanu Jahns and Sean Ramos.

LOS ANGELES—Iran came from behind to snatch a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their long-awaited opening game at the World Cup on Monday as European heavyweights Spain were frustrated in a shock stalemate by tiny tournament debutants Cape Verde.

After months of uncertainty surrounding their participation in the tournament following the war in the Middle East, all eyes were on the Iranians as they took on the New Zealanders in Group G at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium.

Goals from Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebbi secured a point for Iran after Elijah Just had twice fired New Zealand into the lead.

Afterwards, Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei lashed out at the restrictions that have been placed on his team since arriving in North America.

The Iranians were initially due to be based in Tucson, Arizona before switching their training base to Tijuana in Mexico due to ongoing tensions with co-hosts the United States over visa issues.

US authorities have refused to grant visas for several members of the Iranian delegation, prompting Ghalenoei to describe Iran as “the most oppressed team in the World Cup.” Ghalenoei said Iran had been told to leave the United States immediately after Monday’s game.

“They delayed our arrivals, they are forcing us to go back early without time for recovery,” Ghalenoei said. “They are making the situation more and more difficult, facing us with more hurdles, but we’re not going to let that stop us from doing our best.”

A few hours before Monday’s opener, hundreds of protesters against Iran’s ruling regime gathered outside the SoFi Stadium to vent their anger at Tehran’s rulers.

“This team is not the Iranian people’s team, it’s the regime’s team,” said Ava Amin, a philosophy student who came to demonstrate with a banner calling for “regime change.” AFP

By Randy M. Caluag

Eumir Marcial (right) with national coach Reynaldo Galido Eumir Marcial FB

RECOGNIZING the challenges of developing as a middleweight boxer in the Philippines, Filipino Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial will begin preparations for upcoming bouts with a training camp in Tokyo, Japan, “As a Filipino middleweight boxer, it is difficult to get the proper training and preparation in the Philippines because there are very few natural middleweight fighters available for quality sparring,” Marcial said. “That’s why, in order to have the best possible preparation, we need to look abroad and train in a country where we can find the right level of training environment.”

Marcial expressed gratitude to his support team for making the overseas camp possible, particularly his promoter Sean Gibbons, who helped arrange the Japan stint.

“I would like to thank my support system and my promoter, Sean Gibbons, for arranging this training camp,” he said. “I would also like to thank my ABAP family for their continued support, as well as the POC, PSC, and B-Steel for their invaluable assistance.”

The 29-year-old middleweight, who won bronze at the Tokyo Olympics, is looking to sharpen his form against stronger and more varied opposition as he eyes bigger fights in the professional ranks.

Marcial last saw action in the professional circuit in October last year

with decision win over Eddie Colmenares of Venezuela at the Araneta Coliseum for the vacant WBC International middleweight title.

The win kept his unbeaten record intact with seven straight and reinforced his status as one of the Philippines’ brightest hopes in boxing beyond the lower weight classes.

“This is the beginning of my preparations for the big fights ahead, God willing,” Marcial said.

“Our training camp starts here.

Let’s go Tokyo, Japan.”

The move abroad reflects a growing trend among Filipino fighters seeking higher-level sparring and conditioning overseas, particularly in divisions where local competition remains limited.

Frantic fight for JPGT Finals spots up at Eagle Ridge GEN. TRIAS, Cavite—Fast starts and nerves of steel will be the defining themes as junior golfers make one final, frantic push for glory in the sixth and final leg of the Luzon Series – the ICTSI Eagle Ridge JPGT Championship – unwrapping Wednesday (June 17) at the Aoki course of the Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club complex here.

With coveted slots in the Elite Junior PGT Finals on the line, a mix of established frontrunners and desperate backdoor bidders are bracing for an all-out war across the 7-10, 11-14 and 15-18 age divisions.

At stake are tickets to the North vs. South Finals scheduled for Aug. 17-20 at Pueblo de Oro in Cagayan de Oro, where Luzon’s best will defend their crown against a fired-up contingent from the South.

In the girls’ 7-10 category, every single shot and putt will carry immense weight over the 36-hole tournament. While early finalists Winter Serapio (45 points) and Andrea Dee (37 points) can rest easy having already secured their passage, the battle for the remaining two slots is wide open.

Jehanne Mendoza (32 points) and Aicee Cervantes (23 points) currently occupy the No. 3 and No. 4 spots, but their cushions are dangerously thin as Laura Pablo and Cecilia Mamauag breathe down their necks, tied for fifth with 20 points.

Cecilia Mamauag and Asher Abad are launching an all-out, backdoor campaign to punch their tickets to the North vs South showdown.

Even Elizabeth Laurel, at joint seventh with 18 points, remains mathematically alive and could pull off a stunning coup with a victory worth 15 points this week.

A mirror image of high drama is set for the boys’ youngest group. Zach Guico and Zoji Edoc have already punched their tickets to the Finals with identical 42 points. That leaves a three-horse race for the final two spots with third-running Kenzo Tan (31 points) and No. 4 Kingston Ching (30 points) out to fend off a fierce challenge from No. 5 Asher Abad (24 points).

The battle for the final seats in the 11-14 division promises to be exceptionally fierce, amplified by a few notable absences and spoiler threats.

In the boys’ class, No. 2 Javie Bautista and No. 3 Chan Ahn are well-positioned next to first finalist Vito Sarines, but must guard against complacency. The real fireworks lie just below them – No. 5 Race Manhit is making a furious, last-ditch push to crash into the Magic 4.

Crucially, No. 4 Ryuji Suzuki will not be competing this week, flinging the door wide open for No. 6 Jacob Casuga and Beverly Place champion No. 7 Ryuichi Tao to make a dramatic late-season surge.

Meanwhile, the girls’ 11-14 division is ripe for a shakeup.

BUSINESS

B1

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

WIRECLEARING.

Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and the local government unit of Pasig City ramp up wire-clearing operations to promote public safety and ensure continuous delivery of reliable service to electricity consumers. The wire clearing activities on May 26, 2026 along Mangga Ave. were led by Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto, Vice Mayor Robert Jaworski Jr. and Meralco vice president and head of corporate communications Joe Zaldarriaga.

42 PH firms make 2026 Fortune SEA 500 list FORTY-TWO Philippine companies have made the 2026 Fortune Southeast Asia 500 list, according to the business magazine’s third annual regional ranking of corporations by revenue.

The total number of Philippine firms on the list increased by two compared with the previous year.

Top Frontier Investment, which is the largest shareholder in San Miguel Group, ranked No. 10 in in the region with an annual revenue of $25.88 billion.

SM Investments Corp. (SM Investments), the parent company of the SM Group, together with its banking subsidiaries BDO Unibank Inc. and China Banking Corp. performed well in the ranking.

SM Investments followed Top Frontier Investment among domestic firms, ranking No. 28 with $11.85 billion in revenue. Manila Electric Company took the No. 36 spot with $8.65 billion, while Ayala Corp. placed No. 51 with $6.67 billion and BDO secured No. 52 with $6.59 billion.

“We are honored to be part of this year’s Fortune Southeast Asia 500 for the third time,” said SM Investments president and chief executive Frederic DyBuncio.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of our people, the trust of our customers, and the valuable contributions of our partners and tenants. It also underscores the important role that businesses play in advancing inclusive growth and strengthening Southeast Asia’s economic development and trade landscape,” said Dybuncio.

Nine other Philippine corporations landed in the top 100, including GT Capital Holdings Inc. at No. 57 with $6.03 billion; JG Summit Holdings at No. 63 with $5.94 billion; and Aboitiz Equity Ventures at No. 69 with $5.45 billion.

Jollibee Foods Corp. ranked No. 71 with $5.3 billion; followed by Bank of the Philippine Islands at No. 85 with $4.57 billion; Cosco Capital Inc. at No. 86 with $4.56 billion; PLDT Inc. at No. 94 with $3.8 billion; Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. at No. 95 with $3.82 billion; and Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc at No. 100 with $3.66 billion.

T+85 bps Price of 5.5-year tranche

T+125 bps Price of 10-year bonds

6.1%

Tap of the 2051 bonds

Gov’t launches dollar bond sale

By Thony Rose Lesaca

T

HE Philippine government launched a triple-tranche offering of US dollar-denominated global bonds to help finance its budget, the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) said Tuesday.

The transaction marks the country’s second international bond market foray this year, capitalizing on easing global borrowing costs fueled by market optimism over a US-Iran ceasefire agreement.

The offering consists of 5.5-year and 10-year tranches alongside a tap, or reopening, of the existing 5.750 percent 2051 dollar bonds originally issued in January 2026. BTr officials expect the transaction to price later today during the New York trading session, with settlement scheduled for June 24, 2026.

Initial pricing guidance stands at 85 basis points

over US Treasuries for the 5.5-year tranche, 125 in global markets, we are confident that our policy basis points over the benchmark for the 10-year direction will continue to be well received by the intranche and 6.100 percent for the 2051 tap. The ternational investment community,” said Go. state intends to use the sales proceeds for general A consortium of global financial institutions—inbudget financing. Manila cluding BNP Paribas, Citigroup, HSBC, J.P. Morgan, The global bonds maintain investment-grade exMUFG, and Standard Chartered Bank—is managing Standard TODAY pectations and are projected to receive ratings of the issuance as joint lead managers and bookrunners.

Baa2 from Moody’s, BBB+ from Standard & Poor’s, The latest capital market foray builds on a series of and BBB from Fitch. Moody’s Ratings has already sovereign debt issuances, which include a $2.75 bilassigned an investment-grade Baa2 rating to the oflion sale in January 2026 and a dual-currency offering ferings. of $2.25 billion and 1 billion euros in early 2025.

ALLIED CARE EXPERTS (ACE) MEDICAL CENTER “The national government remains committed to fostering strong and Daraga-Legazpi Diversion Road, Bogtong, Legaz inclusive socioeconomic growth,” ContactCENTER No. 09753729932 ALLIED CARE EXPERTS (ACE) MEDICAL - LEGAZPI, INC. Department of Finance (DOF) SecDaraga-Legazpi Diversion Road, Bogtong, Legazpi City retary Frederick Go said.

Contact No. 09753729932 “This transaction highlights our continued pursuit of prudent fiscal NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING management and our broader develNOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEE DEAR STOCKHOLDERS: NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING opment agenda. Against the backdrop of encouraging developments Please be informed that the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting of Allied Care Experts DEAR STOCKHOLDERS: DEARMedical STOCKHOLDERS: (ACE) Center- Legazpi, Inc. (“ACE-LEGAZPI”) will be held on July 9, 2026

Please be informed the a.m., Annual Stockholders’ of Allied Care Experts (ACE) Medical Center- Legazpi, Inc. (“ACE(Thursday) atthat 8:00 via ZoomMeeting Webinar.

LEGAZPI”) will be held on July 9, 2026 (Thursday) at 8:00 a.m., via Zoom Webinar.

Please be informed that the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting of Allied Care Experts (ACE) Medi

For conduct of held theplease Webinar, register before 1, 2026, through For thethe conduct ofwill the Webinar, or before July 1, 2026,on through the following link:Zoom LEGAZPI”) be onregister July 9,onplease 2026 (Thursday) ator 8:00 a.m.,July via Webinar. the following link:

Link: : https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_aGAp0hziT1-eQGNVXfGzGQ

For the conduct of the Webinar, please register on or before July 1, 2026, through the followin Link: : https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_aGAp0hziT1-eQGNVXfGzGQ Once you have successfully registered, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about the webinar

meeting. linkhave will provide you with the process for the registration.

You will receive a a confirmation email onceemail you have Once successfully registered, you will receive confirmation Link: you :The https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_aGAp0hziT1-eQGNVXfGzGQ successfully registered on the platform, including the details and procedures for the conduct of the meeting. Voting will be done containing information about the webinar meeting.

The link will provide you with the via the online tool which you can access once you have logged in to theWebinar; voting in the election of directors may also be process for the registration. done inÊabsentiaÊthrough the above link. You will receive a confirmation email once you have successfully registered on the platform, including the details and procedures for the Once yoube have successfully registered, you will receive a confirmation email containin The meeting of shall (visualVoting and audio) for future reference. conduct therecorded meeting. will be done via the online tool which you can access Themeeting.

Agenda: Thelogged link willinprovide you withvoting the process for the registration.

You also will receive a c once you have to the Webinar; in the election of directors may I. Call to Order successfully registered on the including the details and procedures for the conduct o beInvocation done in absentia through the platform, above link.

II.

BLOOD COLLECTION. Laguna Governor Sol Aragones and Philippine Red Cross chairman and chief executive Richard Gordon lead the inauguration and ribbon-cutting ceremony of the PRC Laguna Chapter–Siniloan Branch Blood Collection Unit on June 15, 2026. With them are PRC secretary-general Gwendolyn Pang, Siniloan Mayor Patrick Ellis Go; and Frank Gray Sorromero, chapter administrator of the PRC Laguna Chapter. Roy Tomandao

Pag-IBIG launches emergency loan amid ME conflict THE Pag-IBIG Fund launched a new emergency loan program that provides qualified members up to P10,000 in affordable cash assistance to counter rising daily expenses linked to the Middle East conflict, agency officials said Tuesday.

The Special Assistance for Financial Emergencies, or SAFE Loan, aims to help Filipino workers manage rising costs for fuel, electricity and transport. The initiative follows a separate benefits package previously given to overseas Filipino workers who returned from the Middle East.

Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary and Pag-IBIG Fund board chairman Jose Ramon Aliling said the program aligns with presidential directives to bring practical relief to citizens.

“President Marcos has directed government agencies to bring timely and practical help closer to Filipino families, especially in times of need,” Aliling said.

“In response, Pag-IBIG Fund is offering the SAFE Loan so qualified members may have access to affordable cash assistance for urgent household needs, especially as the effects of the Middle East conflict continue to be felt in fuel, electricity, transport and other daily expenses here at home.”

Aliling said that while recent global developments suggest tensions could ease, domestic prices will take time to normalize.

“We first extended assistance to our repatriated OFW members because they were directly affected by the situation in the Middle East,” Aliling said.

III. Determination of Quorum via the online tool which you can access once you have logged in to theWebinar; voting in the IV. Welcome Message frombe the Chairman of the Board and audio) for future reference.

The meeting shall recorded (visual done inÊabsentiaÊthrough the above link.

V. Reading and Approval of the Minutes of the Y2025 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting The Agenda: VI. Audited Financial Report 2025 The meeting shall be recorded (visual and audio) for future reference.

VII. President’s Report VIII. Ratification of the Acts and Proceedings of the Board of Directors, Officers,and Management of the Corporation The Agenda: I. Call to Order IX. Election of the Board of Directors 2026-2027 CallInvocation to Order II.I.Appointment X. of External Auditor for the year 2026 XI. Other Matters III.II. Determination of Quorum Invocation XII. Adjournment IV. Welcome Message from the Chairman of the Board

III. Determination of Quorum

V.Only Reading and atApproval of Chairman theon Minutes ofFriday, theshall Y2025 Annual ofMessage record thefrom close ofthe business June 19,of 2026, be entitled to noticeStockholders’ of and to vote at the IV. stockholders Welcome the Board meeting.Meeting If you cannot personally attend the meeting, you may opt to send your proxy to attend on yourbehalf. Kindly submit V. Reading and Approval of the Minutes of the Y2025 Annual Stockholders’ your duly executed proxy form withReport the undersigned, VI. Audited Financial 2025via email, at acemedicallegazpi@gmail.com or acemclegazpi@gmail.com no later than 5:00 p.m. on July 8, 2026, but preferably, on or before July 1, 2026, to enable your proxy to register in the Zoom Meeting VII. President’s Report Webinar. A sample proxy formis available at the Corporation’s website for your reference [NOTE: Managementis not soliciting VI. Ratification Audited Financial 2025 VIII. of the Report Acts and Proceedings of the Board of Directors, Officers, and proxies.]

VII. President’s Report Management of the Corporation The Information Statement and Management Report and SEC Form 17-A are available at the Corporation’s website at IX. Election of the Board Directors 2026-2027 VIII. Ratification of the Actsofand Proceedings of the Board of Directors, Officers,and Manageme www.acemclegazpi.com X.IX. Election Appointment External Auditor 2026-2027 for the year 2026 of the of Board of Directors XI. Other You may contactMatters the undersigned via email at acemedicallegazpi@gmail.com X. Appointment of External Auditor for the year 2026 or acemclegazpi@gmail.com at mobile number: 09753729932/09257800974 XII. Adjournment if you have inquiries/concerns regarding the meeting.

XI. Other Matters

XII. Adjournment Only stockholders of record at the close of business on June 19, 2026, Friday, shall be entitled to notice of and to vote at the meeting. If you cannot personally attend the RICO D. MADLANGBAYAN meeting, you may optof torecord send your proxy to of attend on your behalf.

Only stockholders at the close business on June 19,Kindly 2026,submit Friday,your shall be entitle Corporate Secretary duly executed proxy form personally with the undersigned, via email, acemedicallegazpi@ meeting.

If you cannot attend the meeting, youatmay opt to send your proxy to atte gmail.com acemclegazpi@gmail.com later than via 5:00 p.m.aton July 8, 2026, your dulyorexecuted proxy form with the no undersigned, email, acemedicallegazpi@gmail.co but preferably, on or before July 1, 2026, to enable your proxy to register in the no later than 5:00 p.m. on July 8, 2026, but preferably, on or before July 1, 2026, to enable yo Zoom Webinar. A sample proxy form is available at the Corporation’s website for your Webinar.

A sample proxy formisisnot available at the Corporation’s website for your reference [NO reference [NOTE: Management soliciting proxies.]

Very truly yours,

proxies.]

The Information Statement and Management Report and SEC Form 17-A are available at the Corporation’s at www.acemclegazpi.com The Information Statementwebsite and Management Report and SEC Form 17-A are available a

www.acemclegazpi.com

You may contact the undersigned via email at acemedicallegazpi@gmail.com or acemclegazpi@gmail.com at mobile number: 09753729932/09257800974 if you Youinquiries/concerns may contact theregarding undersigned via email at acemedicallegazpi@gmail.com or acemclegaz have the meeting.

09753729932/09257800974 if you have inquiries/concerns regarding the meeting.

Very truly yours, RICO D. MADLANGBAYAN Corporate Secretary

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Manila

Standard

Republic of the Philippines ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION Pasig City

TODAY

IN THE MATTER OF THE JOINT APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF THE POWER SUPPLY AGREEMENT ENTERED INTO BY AND BETWEEN OCCIDENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. AND DMCI POWER CORPORATION FOR THE SUPPLY OF 4 MW CONTRACTED CAPACITY, WITH PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY OR INTERIM RELIEF AND CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT OF INFORMATION

Department of Energy (“DOE”) Department Circular No. DC2023-06-0021,7 as amended and supplemented by DOE Department Circular No. DC2025-100022,8 (the “DOE CSP Policy”), Rule 20(B) of the Honorable Commission’s Resolution No. 01, Series of 2021 (the “ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure”),9 and the Honorable Commission’s Resolution No. 7, Series of 2026 (the “ERC CSP Guidelines”).

c. d. e. f.

ERC CASE NO. 2026-074 RC OCCIDENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. (OMECO) AND DMCI POWER CORPORATION (DPC), Applicants. x-----------------------------------------x

Office of the Municipal Mayor of San Jose; Office of the Presiding Officer of the Sangguniang Bayan of San Jose; Office of the Governor of the Province of Occidental Mindoro; Office of the Presiding Officer of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the Province of Occidental Mindoro; Office of the Mayor of Makati City; and Office of Presiding Officer of the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Makati City.

TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES: Notice is hereby given that on 21 May 2026, Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, Inc. (OMECO) and DMCI Power Corporation (DPC) filed a Joint Application dated 07 May 2026, seeking the CommissionÕs approval of their Power Supply Agreement (PSA), with prayer for provisional authority or interim relief and confidential treatment of information.

ERC CASE NO. 2026-074 RC NOTICE VIRTUAL The OF docketed copyHEARING of the Joint Application, excluding its PAGE 2 is OF 4 annexes, attached as Annex ÒAÓ of the Notice of Virtual Hearing.

01 July 2026 (Wednesday) at nine oÕclock in the morning (9:00 A.M.) 08 July 2026 (Wednesday) at nine oÕclock in the morning (9:00 A.M.)

Microsoft Teams

STATEMENT OF FACTS 8.

Power Situation in the Province of Occidental Mindoro. As an off-grid EC, applicant OMECO is entirely reliant on bilateral power supply contracts to meet the energy demands of its member-consumers. Unlike 7 Prescribing the Policy for the Mandatory of the OMECO Competitivehas Selection Process to by an the grid-connected distribution utilities,Conduct applicant no access Distribution Utilities for the Procurement of Power Supply for Their Captive Market. electricity market, making it critical to secure sufficient power 8 Prescribingspot Policies to Enhance the Procurement of Power Supply by Distributionlong-term Utilities for the Captive Market, Amending and Supplementing for This Purpose Department Circular No. supply agreements to maintain uninterrupted service forDC2023-06-0021 its member9 A Resolution Adopting the Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure of the Energy Regulatory consumers.

Commission.

10 11

Pre-Trial Conference and Presentation of Evidence

Any interested stakeholder may submit its comments and/or clarifications at least one (1) calendar day prior to the scheduled initial virtual hearing, via e-mail at docket@erc.ph, copy furnish the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph. The Commission shall give priority to the stakeholders who have duly submitted their respective comments and/or clarifications, to discuss the same and propound questions during the course of the expository presentation.

Moreover, all persons who have an interest in the subject matter of the instant case may become a party by filing with the Commission via e-mail at docket@erc.ph, and copy furnishing the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph, a verified Petition to Intervene at least five (5) calendar days prior to the date of the initial virtual hearing. The verified Petition to Intervene must follow the requirements under Rule 9 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure, indicating therein the docket number and title of the case, and state the following: 1)

The petitionerÕs name, mailing address, and e-mail address; ERC CASE NO. 2026-074 RC NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING PAGE2)3 OFThe 4 nature of petitionerÕs interest in the subject matter of the proceeding and the way and manner in which such interest is affected by the issues involved in the proceeding; and

Occidental Mindoro Consolidated Power Corp. (“OMCPC”) OMCPC OMCPC

2022-027 RC

6 MW 24 MW

2022-031 RC 2023-045 RC

1/12/2027

1/12/2027 05/26/2029

13. Accordingly, consistent with its PSPP, applicant OMECO conducted a Competitive Selection Process (“CSP”) pursuant to Department of Energy (“DOE”) Department Circular No. DC2023-06-002114 and the Honorable Commission’s Resolution No. 16, Series of 2023 (the “ERC 2023 CSP Guidelines”), which were the prevailing regulations at the time the CSP was conducted, to secure the capacity necessary to meet the energy requirements of its member-consumers.

14. Conduct of the CSP. On 30 July 2024, the OMECO Board of Directors passed and approved Board Resolution No. 110_B series of 2024, designating the members of the Bids and Awards Committee (the “OMECO BAC”) for the conduct of the CSP pursuant to applicant OMECO’s 2025 PSPP. The members of the OMECO BAC and OMECO BAC Technical Work Group, all of whom are OMECO employees, are as follows: OMECO BAC Name Engr. Rachel Ann Q. Acenas Engr. John Dave C. Pascual Marlene C. Acotina Zenaida Y. Calingasan Velvi Gley J. Tapay

Position Chairman Vice Chairman Member Member Member

Position Chairman Vice Chairman Member Member Member

documents for the CSP to be conducted and endorsing the same to the 14 Prescribing the Policy for the Mandatory Conduct(“NEA”). of the Competitive Selection Process bythe the National Electrification Administration Pursuant thereto, Distribution Utilities for the Procurement of Power Supply for their Captive Market.

OMECO BAC submitted the draft bidding documents to the NEA, together5 with the above-mentioned Board Resolutions in compliance with NEA Memorandum 2023-057.15 After several exchange of correspondence with the NEA, applicant OMECO’s draft bidding documents were approved and the Notice to Commence (“NTC”) dated 14 October 2025 was issued stating that: “This refers to Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, Inc. (OMECO), Board Resolution No. 62, Series of 2025, endorsing the Terms of Reference (TOR) and the bidding documents for the conduct of the Competitive Selection Process (CSP) for the supply of 4 MW (Lot 1) and 13 MW (Lot 2), for a total of 17 MW Guaranteed Dependable Capacity for NEA’s review.

The submitted revised TOR along with the Bidding Documents, is found to be in accordance with the minimum requirements of the National Electrification Administration (NEA) Memorandum No. 2023-57, or the NEA 2023 CSP Guidelines. OMECO may now commence its Competitive Selection Process upon the NEA’s issuance of the Certificate of Conformity.”

16. Subsequently, the NEA issued the Certificate of Conformity No. NEA-RAO-COC-2025-12, dated 14 October 2025,16 stating that: “This is to certify that the contract quantities and cooperation period for the Competitive Selection Process (CSP) of Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, Inc. (OMECO) for the 4 MW (Lot 1) and 13 MW (Lot 2), for a total of 17 MW Guaranteed Dependable Capacity power supply requirement with a 10-year cooperation period is consistent with the latest posted 2025-2034 Power Supply Procurement Plan.”

17. Salient Terms of the CSP. Following applicant OMECO’s 2025 PSPP, the CSP was divided into two (2) lots. The salient terms of the CSP, as contained in the Terms of Reference (“TOR”) duly issued by the OMECO BAC, are as follows: ● Demand Requirement: OMECO Full Load Requirement ● Term: Ten (10) years 15

16

*

Authority granted during Commission Meeting on 20 August 2025.

● Type of Contract: Physical Power Supply Agreement

The National Electrification Administration Competitive Selection Process Guidelines Implementing ● Bid Type:Department The CSPCircular shall No. consist of two (2) Lots: LotRegulatory I is for the Department of Energy’s DC2023-06-0021 and the Energy Commission’s Resolution No. 16, Series of 2023 Sablayan area and Lot II is for MAPSA area.

See Annex “BB-5” hereof.

● Target Delivery Date: For both Lots, the Winning Bidder/s6 shall commence delivery on the later of the following dates: a. 26 March 2027; or b. The 26th day of the calendar month immediately following the month in which the ERC issues a Provisional Authority or Interim Relief, as applicable, or Final Authority, if neither Provisional Authority nor Interim Relief, and the fulfillment of other conditions precedent stated on the PSA.

Date 14 October 2025 15 October 2025 23 and 30 October 2025

Occidental Mindoro, namely: Abra de Ilog, Calintaan, Magsaysay, Mamburao, Rizal, Sablayan, San Jose, Santa Cruz, and Paluan. (the “OMECO Coverage Area”). For purposes of this Joint Application, applicant OMECO is represented herein by its General Manager, CELSO D. GARCIA, duly authorized by virtue of OMECO Board Resolution No. 47, Series of 2026.1 The filing of the instant Joint-Application is likewise authorized by virtue of the afore-mentioned Board Resolution.

02 November 2025

3.

The Applicants may be served with the orders, notices, and other processes of the Honorable Commission through their undersigned counsels at the addresses indicated herein.

NATURE OF THE APPLICATION 30 October 2025

1 2 3 4

5 6

See Annex “Z” hereof.

See Annex “AA” hereof.

See Annex “A” hereof.

SEC.25. Retail Rate. – The retail rates charged by distribution utilities for the supply of electricity in their captive market shall be subject to regulation by the ERC based on the principle of full recovery of prudent and reasonable economic costs incurred, or such other principles that will promote efficiency as may be determined by the ERC. Distribution utilities may enter into bilateral power supply contracts subject to review by the ERC: xxx.

A Resolution Adopting the Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure of the Energy Regulatory

Event Issuance of NEA Notice to Commence and Certificate of Conformity.

OMECO BAC sent letters to DOE, NEA, and the Honorable Commission informing them of the commencement of the CSP. Invitation to Bid with the Terms of Reference was published in the Manila Bulletin newspaper issues dated 23 and 30 October 2025.

Invitation to Bid was likewise posted on the NEA website and applicant OMECO’s official website and social media page except on the DOE CSP e-based portal due to the temporary shutdown of the website as evidenced by DOE Advisory No. 2024-07-001-SEC. 7 Eight (8) prospective bidders purchased the Bidding Documents for Lot I, as follows: 1. Joint Venture of Bar Light and Power Corp. and Mindoro Grid Corporation; 2. United Power Rentals, Inc.; 3. Applicant DPC; 4. Greenheat Corporation; 5. Aggreko Energy Rental Solutions, Inc.; 6. Asian Solar Options Corp.; 7. RMS Petroleum Technology and Waste Management Corporation; and 8. Smartvolt Energy, Inc.

26 March 2027 (at 12:00NN); or the 26th day (at 12:00NN) of the calendar month immediately following the month in which the ERC issues a Provisional Authority (“PA”) or Interim Relief (“IR”), as applicable, or Final Authority (“FA”), subject to the completion/fulfillment of specific conditions outlined in Section 3.3 of the OMECO-DPC PSA, unless waived in writing by the Parties, (except for the ERC’s PA, IR, or FA, which shall not be subject to waiver).

None

PhP 650.0000/ kWmonth

Philippine Consumer Price Index

VOMR

PhP 0.7700/kWh

Philippine Consumer Price Index

FF

07 November 2025

S-6

-

The value of the Philippine Consumer Price Index on the month preceding the Billing Period.

“DD”

DPC Affidavit in Support of Prayer for Provisional Authority

-

“EE”

Affidavit of Service to LGUs

F

“FF”

Affidavit of Publication

G

–

The value of the Philippine Consumer Price Index (2018=100), All Income Households, All Items, one month before COD, published by the Philippine Statistics Authority. https://psa.gov.ph/price-indices/cpiir

ALLEGATIONS RELATIVE TO THE PRAYER FOR CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT OF INFORMATION

22

$$ = $<@DBEFG@ × $") × 2#$%&' –

30. Pursuant thereto, Applicants pray that the information contained in the documents enumerated below be treated as CONFIDENTIAL and that the same be continuously protected from public disclosure, except to the officers and staff of the Honorable Commission (collectively referred to as “Confidential Documents”):

The weighted average fuel price, PHP/L, for the Billing Period expressed in PHP, supported by photocopies of fuel supplier invoice, monthly fuel inventory reports and delivery receipts.

The Fuel Consumption Rate, Li/kWh, of the generating unit equivalent to 0.2300 Li/kWh or the actual FCR for the Billing Period, whichever is lower.

2#$%&'

–

The actual Energy Delivered in the Billing Period measured based on the agreed metering point.

Annex “P”

31. The Confidential Documents contain certain non-public information, data, and calculations involving business operations and financial trade secrets reflecting applicant DPC’s investment and business calculations. As such, the foregoing information, data, and calculations fall within the bounds of “trade secrets” that are entitled to protection under the law.

of applicant DPC’s billing, and

2. applicant OMECO is up to date with all its payment

obligations under the OMECO-DPC PSA.

32. In the case Air Philippines Corporation vs. Pennswell Inc,18 the Supreme Court defined “trade secret” as follows:

In the event that applicant OMECO pays only a portion of the Invoice within the PPD Period, applicant OMECO shall still be entitled to the three percent (3%) discount on a pro-rata basis, corresponding to the actual amount paid within the said period, provided that applicant OMECO has no outstanding undisputed obligations from previous billing periods.

“A trade secret is defined as a plan or process, tool, mechanism, or compound known only to its owner and those of his employees to whom it is necessary to confide it. The definition also extends to a secret formula or process not patented, but known only to certain individuals using it in compounding some article of trade having commercial value. A trade secret may consist of any formula, pattern, device, or compilation of information that (1) is used in one’s business; and (2) gives the employer an opportunity to obtain advantage over competitors who do not possess the information.

20.9. Planned Outage Allowance: There shall be no planned outage allowance for the Power Plant. Applicant DPC shall ensure that the Contracted Capacity is available for dispatch at all times throughout the Term, and any maintenance or repair activities must be performed without reduction in the delivery of the Contracted Capacity and Associated Energy.

34. The interest of applicant OMECO’s consumers is sufficiently protected by the review and evaluation of the rates under the OMECO-DPC PSA by the Honorable Commission, without the need to disclose the contents of the Confidential Documents.

35. Given the foregoing, the Confidential Documents qualifies as “confidential information” and applicant DPC respectfully moves for the issuance of a Protective Order to this effect.

ALLEGATIONS IN SUPPORT FOR THE ISSUANCE OF PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY / INTERIM RELIEF 36.

Applicants hereby replead foregoing allegations as may be applicable to support the prayer for the issuance of a provisional authority or interim relief, and state that: 36.1. Applicant OMECO as an off-grid EC is fully dependent on bilateral power supply agreements to meet the energy needs of its consumers. Unlike on-grid utilities, applicant OMECO has no access to an electricity spot market to supplement its power supply.

36.3. Accordingly, should provisional authority or interim relief not be issued, and the final evaluation by the Honorable Commission remains pending by the time the PSAs with OMCPC expire, the entire Province of Occidental Mindoro shall face looming daily rotational blackouts, disrupting the lives of Mindoreños, compromising hospitals and healthcare services, and endangering lives. Schools may reduce hours or suspend classes, government services could be paralyzed, and the local economy would suffer severely as businesses struggle without reliable electricity.

With DPC

Rate Impact

16.8157

(1.1040)

38. The Affidavits of Engr. Celso D. Garcia and Ms. Jasmin E. Lapan attesting to the truth of the above matters and in support of the prayer for provisional authority is attached as Annexes “CC”, and “DD” respectively.

39. Pursuant to the Honorable Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure, the Honorable Commission may exercise its discretion by granting provisional authority or an interim relief prior to a final decision. It is understood that the provisional authority or interim relief sought by the Joint Applicants shall be subject to adjustments and other conditions that the Honorable Commission may impose.

PRAYER WHEREFORE, premises considered, Joint Applicants OCCIDENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. and DMCI POWER CORPORATION most respectfully pray that the Honorable Commission: ISSUE AN ORDER declaring the Confidential Documents attached hereto as Annexes “P”, “Q”, “S”, “U”, “W”, “BB-20” and series ,“BB-26”, “BB-22”, and “BB-23” as confidential information as well as directing that the same be treated with confidentiality and be protected from public disclosure;

18

ISSUE the corresponding PROTECTIVE ORDER covering the Confidential Documents, in accordance with Section 2, Rule 4 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure;

3.

GRANT PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY to implement the OMECODPC PSA and allow applicant OMECO to collect such rates, fees, and charges as provided in the PSA pending final evaluation of the instant Joint Application;

26. Applicants emphasize that the Honorable Commission was mandated to ensure the provision of least cost supply to applicant OMECO’s consumers. In the case of Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, Inc. vs. Energy Regulatory Commission, et. al.17 (the “Alyansa Case”), the Supreme Court held that competitive public bidding is the most efficient, transparent, and effective guarantee that there will be no price gouging by distribution utilities. The Supreme Court in the Alyansa Case also held that the purpose of the CSP is to ensure transparency and competition in the procurement of power supply by distribution utilities so as to provide the least-cost electricity to the consuming public.

4.

DIRECT the National Power Corporation – Small Power Utilities Group (“NPC-SPUG”) to execute a Subsidy Agreement with applicant OMECO and applicant DPC and DIRECT NPC-SPUG to pay applicant DPC the difference between the True Cost of Generation Rate (“TCGR”) and the Subsidized Approved Generation Rate (“SAGR”) through the Universal Charge for Missionary Electrification (“UCME”) subsidy computed as provided in the OMECO-DPC PSA, all reckoned from the Delivery Date of the PSA; and

27. Considering that the OMECO-DPC PSA was a result of a valid CSP conducted by applicant OMECO, it follows that the rates in the PSA and the provisions contained therein already assure that applicant OMECO and its customers will be provided with reliable, secure, and quality supply of power in the least-cost manner. Thus, the rates in the OMECO-DPC PSA should be implemented, as is, based on the subject PSA itself.

5.

After due notice and hearing, ISSUE A DECISION (i) approving the instant Joint Application in toto which will thereby allow/authorize applicant OMECO to charge and collect the fees from its consumers reckoned from the commencement of the supply to the latter by applicant DPC; and (ii) directing that the rates, terms, and conditions of the OMECO-DPC PSA be retroactively applied for the entire term thereof.

28. Copies of the following documents and/or information are attached to this Joint Application as annexes and made as integral parts hereof: Documents/Information

“A”

OMECO-DPC PSA

“B”

OMECO Certificate of Registration, Certificate of Franchise, Amended Articles of Incorporation and By-laws OMECO Secretary’s Certificate OMECO Demand Side Management Program

16

“E”

OMECO Supply and Demand Scenario, Details of Existing Suppliers, Contract Utilization

18

19

“F”

OMECO Average Daily Load Curve

18A

“G”

OMECO 2025 Distribution Development Plan

18B

“H”

OMECO 2025 Power Supply Procurement Plan

18C

“I”

OMECO Single Line Diagram

19

“J”

OMECO Performance Assessment of the System (SAIDI and SAIFI)

20

OMECO Explanation on Inapplicability of Requirements

“L”

Rate Impact Analysis

$+,)

–

The Fixed Operations & Maintenance Rate (FOMR) component for the Billing Period.

“M”

Executive Summary of the OMECO-DPC PSA

24

“N”

04

""!"

–

Contracted Capacity in equivalent to 13,000kW.

DPC Certificate of Incorporation, Articles of Incorporation, By-laws, Amended Articles of Incorporation and By-laws, and 2025 Amended General Information Sheet

1+,)

–

The Variable Operations & Maintenance Rate (VOMR) component for the Billing Period.

“O”

DPC Verified Certification on Board of Directors

05

“P”

DPC Financial Model and Supporting Information*

25

2#$%&'

–

The actual Energy Delivered in the Billing Period measured based on the agreed metering point.

“Q”

DPC Term Loan Certification*

25D

“S”

DPC Sworn Statement on Fuel Matters*

$$

–

The fuel fee component for the Billing Period.

“T”

DPC Relevant Technical and Economic Characteristics of the Generation Capacity

31

16!

–

The applicable Value Added Tax, if any.

“U”

DPC Latest Audited Financial Statements*

32A

DPC Sample Bill

M

Net Heat Rate Certification

32B

DPC Bid Forms*

26I

“X”

DPC Affidavit of Undertaking

“Y”

DPC Explanation Documents

“Z”

OMECO Board Resolution

D

“AA”

DPC Secretary’s Certificate

E

“BB”

OMECO Sworn CSP Report

H

“BB-1”

Proof of BAC Establishment

I

“BB-2”

CSP Observers (Invitations to Participate – PreBid Conference)

J

CSP Observers (Invitations to Participate – Bid Opening)

J1

on

Non-Applicability

08 of

07 20

m

M

The base CRR equivalent PHP1,850/kW-month.

“BB-4”

Invitation to Bid and Terms of Reference

K and P

9/

–

The total number of hours of the Billing Period.

“BB-5”

Certificate of Conformity issued by the NEA

L

“BB-6”

Publication of Invitation to Bid

M

9/0

–

The Equivalent Hours of actual Planned and Unplanned Outages in the Billing Period.

“BB-7”

Posting of the Invitation to Bid – OMECO Website

N

“BB-8”

–

Posting of Invitation to Bid – Request to DOE pursuant to DOE Advisory 2024-07-001-SEC

N1

9/12

“BB-9”

Posting of Invitation to Bid – OMECO IEC Facebook Page

N2

“BB-10”

Posting of the Invitation to Bid – NEA Website

N3

“BB-11”

Final Instructions to Bidders

O

“BB-12”

Protest Mechanism and Dispute Resolution

W

m

@ m

MW

M

M

M

m

m

M

W

M

M

mm M

m m

M

M

m

“BB-13”

Draft PSA

S-7

“BB-14”

Summary of Pre-Bid Conference proceedings

Q-1

M

“BB-15”

Supplemental Bid Bulletin 1

Q-2

“BB-16”

Supplemental Bid Bulletin 2

Q-3

“BB-17”

Supplemental Bid Bulletin 3

m m M MW mm

m mm

m

mm W

W

m

m m

m

m MW

MM M

M

m

m

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M

M

m

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m

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M MW M

mm

m

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M

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M m

mm mm

M M m m

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MW

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m MWm m w M M m mMWm

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m m M m

M

“BB-18” Eligibility Requirements submitted by Bidders and series “BB-19” Technical Capability Information Submitted by Bidders

W

M MW M

Mm M M mm M

–

M M

m

w m

M

W

M mm M m m m m M M MW m mM M m m mm m mM M M Wm m W mm m M Mm m M m m M M mm @ mm mM m m m mm m m mm m m M m m mM M m mm M m m m m m mm m M m mm M m m M m m m M WmM m W MW mm M Mm m M M M m M M M m mm M M m MW m

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m

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m

m

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The Equivalent Hours of Outages due to Force Majeure affecting both Seller or Buyer for the Billing Period.

M

17

“V”

“BB-3”

M m m

26D-02

“W”

to

26

M

“K”

The product of the base CRR in PHP/kW-month, adjusted monthly based on the total available capacity, in kW, for the Billing Period.

DECHAVEZ LERIOS-AMBOY AND EVANGELISTA 19 LAW OFFICES (Signature pages follow.)

Counsel for the Applicant OCCIDENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. (OMECO) Unit 2008, Tycoon Centre Pearl Drive m m@ m m

03

“D”

The fixed Capacity Recovery Rate (CRR) component for the Billing Period.

9/0 + 9/12 : "))()*+,&-) = ")).(,- × 71 − 9/

Pasig City and Quezon City for Pasig City, 07 May 2026.

02

G.R. No. 227670, Decision dated 3 May 2019.

“R”

Other reliefs just and equitable under the premises are, likewise, prayed for.

Pre-filing Annex Label 01

–

The Capital Recovery Rate for the Billing Period (month) shall be calculated as follows:

25

2.

25. As shown above, the implementation of the PSA between the Joint Applicants will contribute to the reduction of dependence on Universal Charge for Missionary Electrification (“UCME”) subsidy, with an estimated blended True Cost Generation Rate reduction of PHP1.1040/kWh. Consequently, applicant OMECO projects an estimated annual savings or reduction in the UCME subsidy in the amount of PHP235,772,403.13.

13

24

37. Additionally, prospective lenders and shareholders require provisional approval of the OMECO-DPC PSA before providing the necessary financing to commence development activities. These activities are capitalintensive and construction must be expedited to ensure that applicant DPC can timely supply power to applicant OMECO. Thus, the issuance of a provisional approval shall enable applicant DPC to move forward with the project, supply additional, more stable, secure and reliable power to applicant OMECO, and reduce the UCME subsidy charges to all electricity consumers nationwide.

(Php/kWh)

"))

Contracted Capacity available during outage, in kW.

36.2. Without the provisional approval or interim relief pending final evaluation of the Honorable Commission, OMECO will not be authorized to implement its PSAs with DPC, which the cooperative procured to address its increasing demand and to serve as a replacement capacity for its expiring PSAs with OMCPC.

“The Commission believes that the WACC/internal rate of return of power suppliers in [National Power Corporation Small Power Utilities Group (“NPC-SPUG”)] areas should be relatively higher than those in the main grid considering the economic factors involved such as proximity of location, economic development in the area and economic situation of electric cooperatives, among others.”

17.9196

23

33. Also, the Confidential Documents were prepared and developed for the exclusive use of applicant DPC, and is designed for the specific use of the company and its affiliates in its power generation business.

Consequently, should the same be disclosed to the public, they could easily be copied or used by applicant DPC’s competitors or other entities engaged in the power business to the prejudice of applicant DPC.

True Cost Generation Fee for the Billing Period in PHP.

–

Generally, a trade secret is a process or device intended for continuous operation of the business, for example, a machine or formula, but can be a price list or catalogue or specialized customer list. It is indubitable that trade secrets constitute proprietary rights.”

G. R. No. 172835, 13 December 2007.

18

16

However, any unplanned outage attributable to a CFO of the plant’s common facilities – including the plant substation, main switchgear, or other essential balance-of-plant equipment – that prevents the delivery of the Contracted Capacity of the plant, despite the generating units remain operational, shall be permitted for up to fourteen (14) Days per year.

Without DPC

Documents/Information DPC Financial Model and Supporting Information DPC Term Loan Certification DPC Sworn Statement on Fuel Matters DPC Latest Audited Financial Statements DPC Bid Forms Financial Capability Information Submitted

by Bidders Financial Bid submitted by applicant DPC Bid Security submitted by applicant DPC Performance Security and Warranty by applicant DPC

“Q” “S” “U” “W” “BB-20” and series “BB-26” “BB-22” “BB-23”

–

""34(56

29. Section 1, Rule 4 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure provides that a party to a proceeding before the Honorable Commission may move for information to be treated as confidential.

15

!"#$

Total number of hours in a Billing Period.

U-5A

–

–

“C”

–

Notice of Award

1.

Where:

A

U-5

“BB-32”

OMECO’s Generation Rate Impact of PSA

!"#$ = {[(")) + $+,)) / ""!" ] + [(1+,) / 2#$%&' ) + $$]} × (1 + 16!)

Where:

NEA Notice to Issue Award

B9"BC#$%&'<8

24. Estimated Rate Impact. Below is the calculated impact of the implementation of the subject PSA on applicant OMECO’s overall generation rate, with and without the additional supply from applicant DPC, as follows:

The Monthly Fees for the power plant shall be calculated according to the following formula:

578

U-3

“BB-31”

V-3

23. Subsidized Approved Generation Rate. Consistent with the Honorable Commission’s Resolution No. 21, Series of 2011, applicant OMECO’s consumers shall pay only the SAGR approved by the Honorable Commission as the generation component of the retail rate.

1. Computation of Monthly Fees

9/12 = ; 71 −

U-2

Bid Evaluation Report

Notice to Proceed

1. payment is made within fifteen (15) Days from receipt

17

%

Abstract of Bids

“BB-30”

OMECO Affidavit in Support of Prayer for Provisional Authority

20.8. Prompt Payment Discount (“PPD”): Applicant DPC shall extend a three percent (3%) discount based on the nonfuel fee (sum of Capital Recovery Fee, Fixed Operation and Maintenance Fee, and Variable Operation and Maintenance Fee, if applicable) to applicant OMECO as prompt payment if:

Pass-through cost subject to fixed fuel consumption rates cap of 0.2300 li/kWh or actual consumption rate per billing period, whichever is lower.

578

“BB-29”

T

“CC”

Annex

2. Capital Recovery Rate

U-1

“BB-33”

It is worth noting that the Honorable Commission has previously recognized that the rate of return of power suppliers in off-grid areas should be higher than in on-grid areas. In a Decision dated 31 January 2011 in the consolidated cases of ERC Case Nos. 2005-042 RC and 2008-023 RC involving an EC serving an off-grid area, the Honorable Commission recognized the unique challenges faced by power suppliers in off-grid areas. Factors such as the remoteness of locations, lower levels of economic development, and the financial condition of ECs necessitate a higher Weighted Average Cost of Capital (“WACC”) or internal rate of return. The pertinent portion of the said Decision states:

12

Warranty

The VOMR component equivalent to PHP0.7700/kWh

$")

11

and

“BB-27” Checklist for Evaluation of Bids and series “BB-28” Resolution of the BAC recommending the award

B9"BC#$%&'<8 B9"BC=

22. Equity and Financing Plan. The development, construction, and commissioning of the facility shall be funded through a combination of debt and equity.

%

8

S-5

Financial Bid submitted by applicant DPC*

The facility shall be configured for interconnection with the Mindoro Grid and shall include the necessary interconnection facilities and controls, and shall be capable of delivering the Contracted Capacity through the applicable connection and metering points.

The formula to calculate HTO and HTFM shall be:

A General Invitation to Participate as CSP Observer was also posted on applicant OMECO’s official website and social media page.

Issuance of Bid Bulletin (“BB”) No. 1, Series of 2025 changing the venue of the Pre-Bid Conference from the Seasons Hotel and Convention Center, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro to the Sikatuna Beach Hotel, San Roque 1, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro.

The Pre-Bid Conference for the CSP was held at the Sikatuna Beach Hotel, Maharlika Building, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro.

The Pre-Bid Conference was attended by the following prospective Bidders: 1. Aggreko Energy Rental Solutions, Inc.; 2. Asian Solar Options Corp.; 3. BAR Light and Power Corp.; 4. DMCI Power Corporation; 5. Greenheat Corporation;

Technical Bid submitted by applicant DPC

“BB-26”

commissioning by February 2027 and commercial operation/delivery by 26 17 March 2027.

Indexation

FOMR

“BB-25”

The facility is designed to operate under baseload, intermediate, and peaking modes, and shall be completed and commissioned on a schedule targeting

20.7. Tariff Structure and Rates: The unbundled tariff structure and rates, namely, the Capital Recovery Rate (“CRR”), Fixed Operations and Maintenance Rate (“FOMR”), Variable Operations and Maintenance Rate (“VOMR”), Fuel Fee (“FF”) as well as the formulas to compute the Total Generation Cost per billing period are provided in Schedule 2 of the OMECO-DPC PSA. A summary of the unbundled tariff and rates is provided below: Rate

The value of the FOMR component equivalent to PHP650/kW-month

21. Generation Facilities. Applicant DPC shall develop, construct, and commission a bunker-fired power plant in Brgy. Malisbong, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro, consisting of three (3) brand-new generating units with an installed capacity of 1.88 MW per unit (or an aggregate of 5.64 MW), with a corresponding dependable capacity of 1.786 MW per unit, for a total dependable capacity of 5.358 MW.

Applicant OMECO shall pay the Monthly Power Bill stated in the Invoice in full, free and clear from encumbrances and without set-off, counterclaim, or necessity of demand, no later than 1200 hours on the 30th day of the calendar month succeeding the applicable Billing Period (“Payment Due Date”). In case the Payment Due Date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or Holiday, the payment shall be made on the next Business Day.

Php 1,850.0000/ kWmonth

S-4

20.11.Replacement Power: The procurement of any Replacement Power beyond the allowed outage, including the CFO, shall be the responsibility of applicant DPC. In the event of failure by applicant DPC to provide the Contracted Capacity, applicant OMECO shall be allowed to source the Replacement Power at the expense of applicant DPC. Provided that the rates to be charged for the procurement of Replacement Power shall be (a) the actual price of the Replacement Power; or (b) the approved charge for the OMECO-DPC PSA, whichever is lower.

The TCGR for each Billing Period shall be determined in accordance with the formulas set forth in SCHEDULE 2 of the PSA. If the Subsidy Fee is greater than zero (0), applicant DPC shall, within fifteen (15) Days from the end of each Billing Period commencing on the Delivery Date, deliver to applicant OMECO a Subsidy Invoice containing the computation of the Subsidy Fee to be paid by the NPC- Small Power Utilities Group (the “NPCSPUG”) based on the formulas under the OMECO-DPC PSA. Applicant OMECO shall review and verify applicant DPC’s computation of the Subsidy Fee for the applicable Billing Period and certify that such amounts were computed and paid in accordance with the pricing structure under the OMECO-DPC PSA. After applicant OMECO’s confirmation, applicant DPC shall deliver the certified Subsidy Invoice to NPC-SPUG.

CRR

V-2

20.10.Unplanned Outage Allowance: There shall be no unplanned outage allowance for the Power Plant. Applicant DPC shall ensure that the Contracted Capacity is available for dispatch at all times throughout the Term, and any maintenance or repair activities must be performed without reduction in the delivery of the Contracted Capacity and Associated Energy.

20.6. Payment of Fees: Applicant OMECO shall pay to applicant DPC each Month, on or before the 30th day of each Month upon receipt of the billing invoice, an amount equal to the Monthly Payment in accordance with SCHEDULE 2 of the PSA. Applicant DPC shall bear all costs of such transmission service, from the Delivery Point up to the Metering Point, including the cost of any electric losses incurred in such transmission.

Payments to applicant DPC shall be made by applicant OMECO from the collection of generation charges from its memberconsumers, according to the Subsidized Approved Generation Rate (“SAGR”) approved by the ERC. Further, subsidy shall be disbursed by the NPC and Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (“PSALM”) for applicant DPC to recover its costs according to the True Cost Generation Rate (“TCGR”), in accordance with Section 4 of the “Guidelines for the Setting and Approval of Electricity Generation Rates and Subsidies for Missionary Electrification Areas” adopted under ERC Resolution No. 21, Series of 2011, as amended, and the prevailing regulations of the ERC.

by

Certification issued by the Bidders attesting to its responsibilities and authorizing the BAC to verify the information submitted.

–

$<@DBEFG@

10

S-2

Performance Security applicant DPC*

However, any planned outage attributable to a Common Facility Outage (“CFO”) of the plant’s common facilities – including the plant substation, main switchgear, or other essential balanceof-plant equipment – that prevents the delivery of the Contracted Capacity of the plant, despite the generating units remain operational, shall be permitted for up to two (2) Days per year.

20.3. Supply of Power: The Seller shall supply the Contracted Capacity and the Associated Energy in accordance with the Dispatch Schedule of the System Operator and the Nomination Protocol, subject to the terms and conditions in this Agreement

Where:

With respect to Lot II, four (4) prospective bidders purchased the Bidding Documents, namely: 1. United Power Rentals, Inc.; 2. DMCI Power Corporation; 3. Asian Solar Options Corp.; and 4. RMS Petroleum Technology and Waste Management Corporation.

Invitations to Participate as CSP Observer were sent to the following: 1. Mindoro Progressive Multi-Purpose Cooperative; 2. Local Chamber of Commerce; 3. Homeowners Association Dona Consuelo Subd., Pagasa, San Jose; 4. Local Pastoral Council, Unida Christian Church, 5. Occidental Mindoro State College; 6. Parent-Teachers Association, San Roque Elementary School; 7. MCO-EC Wide Federation Chairman; 8. Nationwide Association of Consumers, Inc. ; 9. NEA; 10. DOE; 11. National Power Corporation (“NPC”); 12. National Transmission Corporation (“TransCo”); 13. Interested consumer.

The filing of the instant Joint Application is likewise authorized by virtue of the afore-mentioned Board Resolution.

4.

The instant Joint Application for approval of the Power Supply Agreement (“PSA”) entered into by and between applicants OMECO and DPC dated 26 February 2026 for the supply of 4 MW Contracted Capacity (the “OMECO-DPC PSA”)3 is being submitted to the Honorable Commission for its review and approval pursuant to Sections 254 and 45(b)5 of Republic Act No. 9136, otherwise known as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (the “EPIRA”), Rule 20(B) of the Honorable Commission’s Resolution No. 01, Series of 2021 (the “ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure”),6 the

i. ii.

Bid Security submitted by applicant DPC*

1+,).(,-

Where:

20.2. Delivery Date: Applicant DPC shall commence delivery of and make available at the Delivery Point the Contracted Capacity to applicant OMECO on Delivery Date. The Delivery Date shall be the later of either:

S-1

“BB-22”

“BB-24”

5. Fuel Fee

20.1. Term: The OMECO-DPC PSA shall take effect immediately from Effective Date, and from such date, shall remain in force and effect for ten (10) years from the Delivery Date unless sooner terminated in accordance with the PSA and upon approval by the ERC.

Acceptance of Bidding Procedures

“BB-23”

1+,)()*+,&-) = 1+,).(,- ×

B9"BC=

SALIENT TERMS OF THE OMECO-DPC PSA 20. The OMECO-DPC PSA, a copy of which is attached as Annex “A” hereof, contains the following salient terms:

Contracted Capacity (in MW) Lot I Sablayan Area 4 Lot II MAPSA Area 13 Note: The PSA subject of this instant Joint Application pertains to the 4 MW Contracted Capacity for Lot I (Sablayan Area).

18. A Sworn Report, executed by both the General Manager and President of the Board of Directors of OMECO in accordance with NEA Memorandum No. 2023-057, Article 8.2.11(d)(1), detailing the manner in which the CSP was conducted is attached hereto as Annex “BB”. A summary of the key dates and events of the CSP is provided below:

Where:

R-5

“BB-21”

B9"BC#$%&'<8 B9"BC=

4. Variable Operations & Maintenance Rate

19. In compliance with the Notice to Execute Agreement issued by the NEA, applicants OMECO and DPC executed the OMECO-DPC PSA on 26 February 2026, which is the subject of this instant Joint Application.

● Contracted Capacity: Lot Location

● Source of Power: Bids are open to all technologies, except for coal-fired power plants, in compliance with Ordinance No. 99, Series of 2019 of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Occidental Mindoro. The generating facilities and equipment of the Winning Bidder/s shall comply with all the requirements for Transmission Connected Generators, including the capabilities of generating units prescribed by the latest edition of the Philippine Distribution Code and the applicable provisions of the Philippine Small Grid Guidelines.

2.

Applicant DPC is a corporation duly organized and existing by virtue of and under the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with principal office address at the 3/F MN1 Bldg., DMCI Homes Corporate Center, 1321 Apolinario Street, Bangkal, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines. For purposes of this Joint Application, applicant DPC is represented by its Senior Manager, Ms. JASMIN E. LAPAN, duly authorized by virtue of Secretary’s Certificate dated 13 March 2026.2

23 February 2026

–

9

20.5. Seller and Buyer Obligations: Beginning on the Delivery Date, until the termination or expiration of the OMECO-DPC PSA, applicant DPC shall supply and deliver the Contracted Capacity and Associated Energy as detailed in SCHEDULE 3 of the PSA to applicant OMECO at the Delivery Point, and applicant OMECO shall purchase and pay applicant DPC the Contracted Capacity and the delivered Associated Energy at the rate provided in SCHEDULE 2 of the PSA resulting from the CSP and subject to the approval of the ERC.

15. On 30 July 2024, the OMECO Board of Directors passed and approved Board Resolution No. 110-A series of 2024, approving the bidding

ATTY. MARIA CORAZON C. GINES* Director III, Legal Service

29 January 2026 30 January 2026

“BB-20” Financial Capability Information Submitted by and series Bidders*

The Fuel Fee for the Billing Period (month) shall be calculated as follows:

20.4. Contracted Capacity: 4 MW

OMECO BAC Technical Work Group Name Prudencio B. Morena Engr. Lee F. Sebastian John Patrick G. Loyzaga Engr. Vandrix O. Gaspar Engr. Austin John Arnaiz

(This space is intentionally left blank.)

WITNESS, the Honorable Chairperson and CEO FRANCIS SATURNINO C. JUAN and the Honorable Commissioners FLORESINDA G. BALDO-DIGAL, MARKO ROMEO L. FUENTES, AMANTE A. LIBERATO and PARIS G. REAL, Energy Regulatory Commission, in Pasig City.

Authority granted during Commission Meeting on 20 August 2025.

9 MW

Number of hours of actual outage.

The Variable Operations & Maintenance Rate for the billing month shall be calculated as follows:

On the same date, the respective bid proposals were evaluated in accordance with the parameters set forth in the Final Transaction Documents issued by the BAC, with applicant DPC emerging as the winning bidder for both Lots, having submitted the Lowest Calculated Bid for each.

The post-qualification process was conducted to determine whether applicant DPC complied with and is responsive to all the requirements and conditions as specified in the bidding documents.

Finalized and completed the Detailed Evaluation and PostQualification Report Issuance of BAC Resolution No. 01, Series of 2026 entitled “A Resolution Respectfully Recommending to the Board of Directors, through the NEA Project Supervisor and the General Manager, the Award of Contract for the Procurement of Seventeen Megawatts (17 MW) Contracted Capacity for Lot I – 4 MW (Sablayan Area) and Lot II – 13 MW (MAPSA Area) to DMCI Power Corporation (DPC), and Requesting the Boarding of Directors to submit to the National Electrification Administration (NEA) the Board Resolution: (i) Adopting the CSP-BAC’s Recommendation and (ii) Requesting the Issuance of the Notice to Issue Award.”

Issuance of Notice to Issue Award by the NEA. Issuance of the Notice of Award in favor of applicant DPC for Lot I and II of the CSP Applicant OMECO receives the Notice to Execute Agreement issued by the NEA, directing the EC to execute the NEA-approved PSAs with applicant DPC, within three (3) calendar days from receipt.

17, 18, 22, 29, December 2025 and 07 January 2026 09 January 2026

12. In view of the increasing electricity demand within its franchise area and the projected supply deficiency by March 2027, applicant OMECO resolved to procure an additional 17 MW of power supply to ensure adequate capacity for its member-consumers. In order to ensure operational efficiency, grid stability, and security of supply, OMECO further determined that the required capacity should be strategically allocated across two (2) locations, namely: (i) 13 MW power supply at the Mamburao, Paluan, Sta. 12 See Annex “E” hereof.

13 Cruz, and Abra de Ilog area (collectively referred to herein as the “MAPSA See Annex “H” hereof.

4 Area”); and (ii) 4 MW power supply dedicated at the Sablayan area.

LS: DPED / RCD

*

For Lot II, two (2) bidders submitted bid proposals, namely: 1. United Power Rentals, Inc.; and 2. Applicant DPC.

–

$+,)()*+,&-) = $+,).(,- ×

$+,).(,-

For Lot I, three (3) bidders submitted bid proposals, namely: 1. the Joint Venture of Bar Light and Power Corp. and Mindoro Grid Corporation; 2. United Power Rentals, Inc.; and 3. Applicant DPC.

PSA Expiration

11. The PSAs docketed under ERC Case Nos. 2023-027 RC and 2023031 RC are set to expire by March 2027. Absent timely procurement of replacement capacity, applicant OMECO will face a capacity shortfall upon the expiration of said PSAs.

Finally, all interested persons may be allowed to join * the ATTY. MARIA CORAZON C. GINES scheduled virtual hearings by Director providingIII,the Commission, Legal Service through legal.virtualhearings@erc.ph, their respective e-mail addresses, indicating therein the case number of the instant Application. The Commission will send the access link/s to the aforementioned hearing platform within five (5) working days prior to the scheduled hearings.

LS: DPED / RCD

ERC Docket No.

10. As of 2025, the average peak demand within the OMECO Coverage Area has reached 33.48 MW.12 Based on applicant OMECO’s 2025 Power Supply Procurement Plan (“PSPP”),13 peak demand in the OMECO Coverage Area is projected to further increase annually, primarily due to sustained load growth driven by population increase, expansion of commercial and industrial activities, and continued energization of new connections.

Likewise, all other persons who may want their views known to the Commission with respect to the subject matter of the case may file ERC CASE NO. 2026-074 RC through e-mail at docket@erc.ph, copy furnish the Legal Service NOTICE VIRTUAL their HEARING throughOF legal@erc.ph, Opposition or Comment thereon at least PAGE 4 OF 4 five (5) calendar days prior to the initial virtual hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure. No particular form of Opposition or Comment is Finally,but all the interested persons be allowed join thethe required, document, letter,may or writing shouldto contain scheduled following:virtual hearings by providing the Commission, through legal.virtualhearings@erc.ph, their respective e-mail addresses, indicating therein the case number of the instant Application. The 1) The name, mailing address, and e-mail address of the Commission will send the access link/s to the aforementioned hearing person; platform within five (5) working days prior to the scheduled hearings.

FOR AND BY THE AUTHORITY OF THE COMMISSION:

Contract Capacity (in MW)

Where:

The submission, opening, and evaluation of bid proposals was held at the Seasons Hotel and Convention Center, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro.

See Annex “EE”of the Joint Application.

See Annex “FF” of the Joint Application.

Supplier

A statement of the relief desired.

2) A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and WITNESS, the Honorable Chairperson and CEO FRANCIS SATURNINO C. JUAN and the Honorable Commissioners FLORESINDA G. BALDO-DIGAL, MARKO ROMEO L. 3) The grounds relied upon.

FUENTES, AMANTE A. LIBERATO and PARIS G. REAL, Energy Regulatory Commission, in Pasig City.

All interested parties filing their Petition to Intervene, Opposition or Comment are required to submit the hard copies thereof ERC CASE NO. 2026-074 RC through personal service, registered mail, or ordinary mail/private NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING courier, within five (5) working days from the date that the same FOR AND BY THE AUTHORITY OF were electronically submitted, as reflected in the acknowledgement PAGE 4 OF 4 THE COMMISSION: receipt e-mail sent by the Commission.

15 December 2025

9.

To date, applicant OMECO sources its power supply from the3 following suppliers, with their respective contract capacities shown below:

Activity Determination of compliance with jurisdictional requirements and Expository Presentation

Accordingly, Applicants are hereby directed to mirror the virtual hearings, to be hosted by the Commission, at OMECOÕs principal office at M.H. del Pilar St., San Jose, Occidental Mindoro as the designated venue for the conduct thereof and ensure that the same is open to the public. Moreover, Applicants shall guarantee that, during the conduct of the expository presentation, the participation of the public shall not be impaired.

3)

10 December 2025

7.

Pursuant to the ERC 2026 CSP Guidelines, the timeliness of the pre-filing of this Joint Application shall be reckoned from 26 February 2026, the date of execution of the OMECO-DPC PSA.

The Commission has set the instant Joint Application for hearing, pursuant to the pertinent rules of the Commission, as follows: Platform

26 November 2025

Total Contracted Capacity, in kW.

The Fixed Operations & Maintenance Rate for the Billing Period (month) shall be calculated as follows:

Issuance of BB No. 2, containing the responses to advanced written clarifications, Pre-Bid Conference questions and clarifications, post– Pre-Bid Conference written clarifications, and the Revised Transaction Documents.

Issuance of BB No. 3, containing the responses to written questions and clarifications on the Revised Transaction Documents, the Final Terms of Reference, and the Final Transaction Documents, as well as a reminder of the bid opening date and the deadline for bid submission.

Invitations to Participate as CSP Observer for the opening and evaluation of bid proposals were sent to the following: 1. Mindoro Progressive Multi-Purpose Cooperative; 2. Local Chamber of Commerce; 3. Homeowners Association Dona Consuelo Subd., Pagasa, San Jose; 4. Local Pastoral Council, Unida Christian Church, 5. Occidental Mindoro State College; 6. Parent-Teachers Association, San Roque Elementary School; 7. MCO-EC Wide Federation Chairman; 8. Nationwide Association of Consumers, Inc. ; 9. NEA; 10. DOE; 11. National Power Corporation (“NPC”); 12. National Transmission Corporation (“TransCo”); 13. Interested consumer.

6.

Further, this Joint Application shall also be published in a newspaper of general circulation.11

NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING

Date and Time

17 November 2025

–

3. Fixed Operations & Maintenance Rate

The following CSP Observers were likewise present: 1. NEA Representative; 2. NPC Representatives; 3. TransCo Representatives; 4. DOE Representative; 5. Mindoro Progressive Multi-Purpose Cooperative Representatives; 6. Local Chamber of Commerce Representative; 7. Local Pastoral Council Representative; 8. Occidental Mindoro State College Representative; 9. San Roque Elementary School Representative; 10. MCO-EC Wide Federation Chairman; 11. Interested consumer.

ALLEGATION ON TIMELINESS

May 26, 2026

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6. RMS Petroleum Technology and Waste Management Corporation; 7. SmartVolt Energy, Inc.; 8. United Power Rentals, Inc.;

5.

In compliance with Section 2, Rule 6 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure, a copy of the instant Joint Application (with all its annexes and accompanying documents, except those subject of a motion for confidential treatment of information) shall be furnished to the following offices:10 a. b.

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14

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Manila

Standard

Republic of the Philippines ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION Pasig City

TODAY

IN THE MATTER OF THE JOINT APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF THE POWER SUPPLY AGREEMENT ENTERED INTO BY AND BETWEEN OCCIDENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. AND DMCI POWER CORPORATION FOR THE SUPPLY OF 13 MW CONTRACTED CAPACITY, WITH PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY OR INTERIM RELIEF AND CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT OF INFORMATION,

Department of Energy (“DOE”) Department Circular No. DC2023-06-0021,7 as amended and supplemented by DOE Department Circular No. DC2025-100022,8 (the “DOE CSP Policy”), Rule 20(B) of the Honorable Commission’s Resolution No. 01, Series of 2021 (the “ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure”),9 and the Honorable Commission’s Resolution No. 7, Series of 2026 (the “ERC CSP Guidelines”).

5.

In compliance with Section 2, Rule 6 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure, a copy of the instant Joint Application (with all its annexes and accompanying documents, except those subject of a motion for confidential treatment of information) shall be furnished to the following offices:10 a. b. c. d. e. f.

ERC CASE NO. 2026-078 RC OCCIDENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. (OMECO) AND DMCI POWER CORPORATION (DPC)

June 01, 2026

6.

Further, this Joint Application shall also be published in a newspaper of general circulation.11

TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES: Notice is hereby given that on 28 May 2026, Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, Inc. (OMECO) and DMCI Power Corporation (DPC) filed a Joint Application dated 07 May 2026, seeking the CommissionÕs approval of their Power Supply Agreement (PSA), with ERC CASE NO. 2026-078 RC of information. motion for confidential treatment NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING PAGE 2 OF 4 The docketed copy of the Joint Application, excluding its annexes, is attached as Annex ÒAÓ of the Notice of Virtual Hearing.

13 July 2026 (Monday) at two oÕclock in the afternoon (2:00 P.M.)

Microsoft Teams

Activity Determination of compliance with jurisdictional requirements and Expository Presentation Pre-Trial Conference and Presentation of Evidence

Accordingly, Applicants are hereby directed to mirror the virtual hearings, to be hosted by the Commission, at OMECOÕs principal office at M.H. Del Pilar Street, Barangay Poblacion VI, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro as the designated venue for the conduct thereof and ensure that the same is open to the public. Moreover, Applicants shall guarantee that, during the conduct of the expository presentation, the participation of the public shall not be impaired.

Any interested stakeholder may submit its comments and/or clarifications at least one (1) calendar day prior to the scheduled initial virtual hearing, via e-mail at docket@erc.ph, copy furnish the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph. The Commission shall give priority to the stakeholders who have duly submitted their respective comments and/or clarifications, to discuss the same and propound questions during the course of the expository presentation.

Moreover, all persons who have an interest in the subject matter of the instant case may become a party by filing with the Commission via e-mail at docket@erc.ph, and copy furnishing the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph, a verified Petition to Intervene at least five (5) calendar days prior to the date of the initial virtual hearing. The verified Petition to Intervene must follow the requirements under Rule 9 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure, indicating therein the docket number and title of the case, and state the following: ERC CASE NO. 2026-078 RC NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING 1) The petitionerÕs name, mailing address, and e-mail PAGE 3 OF 4 address; 2)

3)

10 11

The nature of petitionerÕs interest in the subject matter of the proceeding and the way and manner in which such interest is affected by the issues involved in the proceeding; and

Supplier

Contract Capacity (in MW) 9 MW

ERC Docket No.

PSA Expiration

2022-027 RC

1/12/2027

6 MW 24 MW

2022-031 RC 2023-045 RC

1/12/2027 05/26/2029

11. The PSAs docketed under ERC Case Nos. 2023-027 RC and 2023031 RC are set to expire by March 2027. Absent timely procurement of replacement capacity, applicant OMECO will face a capacity shortfall upon the expiration of said PSAs. 12. In view of the increasing electricity demand within its franchise area and the projected supply deficiency by March 2027, applicant OMECO resolved to procure an additional 17 MW of power supply to ensure adequate capacity for its member-consumers. In order to ensure operational efficiency, grid stability, and security of supply, OMECO further determined that the required capacity should be strategically allocated across two (2) locations, namely: (i) 13 MW power supply at the Mamburao, Paluan, Sta. Cruz, and Abra de Ilog area (collectively referred to herein as the “MAPSA 12 Area”); and (ii) MW power supply dedicated at the Sablayan area.

See Annex “E” 4 hereof.

13

See Annex “H” hereof.

4

13. Accordingly, consistent with its PSPP, applicant OMECO conducted a Competitive Selection Process (“CSP”) pursuant to Department of Energy (“DOE”) Department Circular No. DC2023-06-002114 and the Honorable Commission’s Resolution No. 16, Series of 2023 (the “ERC 2023 CSP Guidelines”), which were the prevailing regulations at the time the CSP was conducted, to secure the capacity necessary to meet the energy requirements of its member-consumers.

14. Conduct of the CSP. On 30 July 2024, the OMECO Board of Directors passed and approved Board Resolution No. 110_B series of 2024, designating the members of the Bids and Awards Committee (the “OMECO BAC”) for the conduct of the CSP pursuant to applicant OMECO’s 2025 PSPP. The members of the OMECO BAC and OMECO BAC Technical Work Group, all of whom are OMECO employees, are as follows:

Name Engr. Rachel Ann Q. Acenas Engr. John Dave C. Pascual Marlene C. Acotina Zenaida Y. Calingasan Velvi Gley J. Tapay

Position Chairman Vice Chairman Member Member Member

Position Chairman Vice Chairman Member Member Member

15. On 30 July 2024, the OMECO Board of Directors passed and approved Board Resolution No. 110-A series of 2024, approving the bidding documents for the CSP to be conducted and endorsing the same to the National Electrification Administration (“NEA”). Pursuant thereto, the 14 OMECO BACthesubmitted theMandatory draft bidding documents to Selection the NEA, together Prescribing Policy for the Conduct of the Competitive Process by the Utilities for the Procurement of Power Supply for theirinCaptive Market. withDistribution the above-mentioned Board Resolutions compliance with NEA Memorandum 2023-057.15 After several exchange of correspondence with5 the NEA, applicant OMECO’s draft bidding documents were approved and the Notice to Commence (“NTC”) dated 14 October 2025 was issued stating that: “This refers to Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, Inc. (OMECO), Board Resolution No. 62, Series of 2025, endorsing the Terms of Reference (TOR) and the bidding documents for the conduct of the Competitive Selection Process (CSP) for the supply of 4 MW (Lot 1) and 13 MW (Lot 2), for a total of 17 MW Guaranteed Dependable Capacity for NEA’s review.

The submitted revised TOR along with the Bidding Documents, is found to be in accordance with the minimum requirements of the National Electrification Administration (NEA) Memorandum No. 2023-57, or the NEA 2023 CSP Guidelines. OMECO may now commence its Competitive Selection Process upon the NEA’s issuance of the Certificate of Conformity.”

“This is to certify that the contract quantities and cooperation period for the Competitive Selection Process (CSP) of Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, Inc. (OMECO) for the 4 MW (Lot 1) and 13 MW (Lot 2), for a total of 17 MW Guaranteed Dependable Capacity power supply requirement with a 10-year cooperation period is consistent with the latest posted 2025-2034 Power Supply Procurement Plan.”

LS: LRQ / RCD

OCCIDENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. AND DMCI POWER CORPORATION, Joint Applicants. x-------------------------x JOINT APPLICATION (With Prayer for Provisional Authority or Interim Relief and Confidential Treatment of Information) Joint Applicants OCCIDENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. (“OMECO”) and DMCI POWER CORPORATION (“DPC”) (collectively, the “Applicants”), through the undersigned counsels and unto the Honorable Commission, most respectfully state, that: THE JOINT APPLICANTS 1.

Applicant OMECO is a non-stock, non-profit Electric Cooperative (“EC”) duly organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with principal office at M.H. del Pilar St., San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. Applicant OMECO holds a franchise from the National Electrification Commission, to operate an electric light and power distribution service in the nine (9) municipalities of the province of

17. Salient Terms of the CSP. Following applicant OMECO’s 2025 PSPP, the CSP was divided into two (2) lots. The salient terms of the CSP, as contained in the Terms of Reference (“TOR”) duly issued by the OMECO BAC, are as follows: ● Demand Requirement: OMECO Full Load Requirement

● Term: Ten (10) years

15

16

● Type of Contract: Physical Power Supply Agreement

The National Electrification Administration Competitive Selection Process Guidelines Implementing ● Bid Type:Department The CSPCircular shall No. consist of two (2) LotRegulatory I is for the Department of Energy’s DC2023-06-0021 and Lots: the Energy Commission’s Resolution No. 16, Series of 2023 Sablayan area and Lot II is for MAPSA area.

See Annex “BB-5” hereof.

● Target Delivery Date: For both Lots, the Winning Bidder/s6 shall commence delivery on the later of the following dates: a. 26 March 2027; or b. The 26th day of the calendar month immediately following the month in which the ERC issues a Provisional Authority or Interim Relief, as applicable, or Final Authority, if neither Provisional Authority nor Interim Relief, and the fulfillment of other conditions precedent stated on the PSA.

● Source of Power: Bids are open to all technologies, except for coal-fired power plants, in compliance with Ordinance No. 99, Series of 2019 of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Occidental Mindoro. The generating facilities and equipment of the Winning Bidder/s shall comply with all the requirements for Transmission Connected Generators, including the capabilities of generating units prescribed by the latest edition of the Philippine Distribution Code and the applicable provisions of the Philippine Small Grid Guidelines.

18. A Sworn Report, executed by both the General Manager and President of the Board of Directors of OMECO in accordance with NEA Memorandum No. 2023-057, Article 8.2.11(d)(1), detailing the manner in which the CSP was conducted is attached hereto as Annex “BB”. A summary of the key dates and events of the CSP is provided below: Date 14 October 2025 15 October 2025 23 and 30 October 2025

4

5 6

SALIENT TERMS OF THE OMECO-DPC PSA 20. The OMECO-DPC PSA, a copy of which is attached as Annex “A” hereof, contains the following salient terms: 20.1. Term: The OMECO-DPC PSA shall take effect immediately from Effective Date, and from such date, shall remain in force and effect for ten (10) years from the Delivery Date unless sooner terminated in accordance with the PSA and upon approval by the ERC.

02 November 2025

i. ii.

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Rate Php 1,850.0000/ kWmonth PhP 650.0000/ kWmonth PhP 0.7700/kWh

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Total number of hours in a Billing Period.

Contracted Capacity available during outage, in kW. Total Contracted Capacity, in kW. Number of hours of actual outage.

3. Fixed Operations & Maintenance Rate

Issuance of Bid Bulletin (“BB”) No. 1, Series of 2025 changing the venue of the Pre-Bid Conference from the Seasons Hotel and Convention Center, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro to the Sikatuna Beach Hotel, San Roque 1, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro.

The Pre-Bid Conference for the CSP was held at the Sikatuna Beach Hotel, Maharlika Building, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro.

The Fixed Operations & Maintenance Rate for the Billing Period (month) shall be calculated as follows: $+,)()*+,&-) = $+,).(,- × 8

B9"BC#$%&'<8 B9"BC=

“FF”

Affidavit of Publication

G

Documents/Information DPC Financial Model and Supporting Information DPC Term Loan Certification DPC Sworn Statement on Fuel Matters DPC Latest Audited Financial Statements DPC Bid Forms Financial Capability Information Submitted

by Bidders Financial Bid submitted by applicant DPC Bid Security submitted by applicant DPC

31. The Confidential Documents contain certain non-public information, data, and calculations involving business operations and financial trade secrets reflecting applicant DPC’s investment and business calculations. As such, the foregoing information, data, and calculations fall

15

within the bounds of “trade secrets” that are entitled to protection under 22 the law.

1. payment is made within fifteen (15) Days from receipt

of applicant DPC’s billing, and 2. applicant OMECO is up to date with all its payment obligations under the OMECO-DPC PSA.

32. In the case Air Philippines Corporation vs. Pennswell Inc,18 the Supreme Court defined “trade secret” as follows:

In the event that applicant OMECO pays only a portion of the Invoice within the PPD Period, applicant OMECO shall still be entitled to the three percent (3%) discount on a pro-rata basis, corresponding to the actual amount paid within the said period, provided that applicant OMECO has no outstanding undisputed obligations from previous billing periods.

“A trade secret is defined as a plan or process, tool, mechanism, or compound known only to its owner and those of his employees to whom it is necessary to confide it. The definition also extends to a secret formula or process not patented, but known only to certain individuals using it in compounding some article of trade having commercial value. A trade secret may consist of any formula, pattern, device, or compilation of information that (1) is used in one’s business; and (2) gives the employer an opportunity to obtain advantage over competitors who do not possess the information.

Generally, a trade secret is a process or device intended for continuous operation of the business, for example, a machine or formula, but can be a price list or catalogue or specialized customer list. It is indubitable that trade secrets constitute proprietary rights.”

20.9. Planned Outage Allowance: There shall be no planned outage allowance for the Power Plant. Applicant DPC shall ensure that the Contracted Capacity is available for dispatch at all times throughout the Term, and any maintenance or repair activities must be performed without reduction in the delivery of the Contracted Capacity and Associated Energy.

However, any planned outage attributable to a Common Facility Outage (“CFO”) of the plant’s common facilities – including the plant substation, main switchgear, or other essential balanceof-plant equipment – that prevents the delivery of the Contracted Capacity of the plant, despite the generating units remain operational, shall be permitted for up to two (2) Days per year.

33. Also, the Confidential Documents were prepared and developed for the exclusive use of applicant DPC, and is designed for the specific use of the company and its affiliates in its power generation business.

Consequently, should the same be disclosed to the public, they could easily be copied or used by applicant DPC’s competitors or other entities engaged in the power business to the prejudice of applicant DPC.

20.10. Unplanned Outage Allowance: There shall be no unplanned outage allowance for the Power Plant. Applicant DPC shall ensure that the Contracted Capacity is available for dispatch at all times throughout the Term, and any maintenance or repair activities must be performed without reduction in the delivery of the Contracted Capacity and Associated Energy.

34. The interest of applicant OMECO’s consumers is sufficiently protected by the review and evaluation of the rates under the OMECO-DPC PSA by the Honorable Commission, without the need to disclose the contents of the Confidential Documents.

However, any unplanned outage attributable to a CFO of the plant’s common facilities – including the plant substation, main switchgear, or other essential balance-of-plant equipment – that prevents the delivery of the Contracted Capacity of the

35. Given the foregoing, the Confidential Documents qualifies as “confidential information” and applicant DPC respectfully moves for the issuance of a Protective Order to this effect.

plant, despite the generating units remain operational, shall be permitted for up to fourteen (14) Days per year.

16

ALLEGATIONS IN SUPPORT FOR THE ISSUANCE OF PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY / INTERIM RELIEF

20.11. Replacement Power: The procurement of any Replacement Power beyond the allowed outage, including the CFO, shall be the responsibility of applicant DPC. In the event of failure by applicant DPC to provide the Contracted Capacity, applicant OMECO shall be allowed to source the Replacement Power at the expense of applicant DPC. Provided that the rates to be charged for the procurement of Replacement Power shall be (a) the actual price of the Replacement Power; or (b) the approved charge for the OMECO-DPC PSA, whichever is lower.

36. Applicants hereby replead foregoing allegations as may be applicable to support the prayer for the issuance of a provisional authority or interim relief, and state that: 18

21. Generation Facilities. Applicant DPC shall develop, construct, and commission a bunker-fired power plant in Brgy. Tayamaan, Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro, consisting of eight (8) brand-new generating units with an installed capacity of 1.88 MW per unit (or an aggregate of 15.04 MW), with a corresponding dependable capacity of 1.786 MW per unit, for a total dependable capacity of 14.288 MW.

G. R. No. 172835, 13 December 2007.

36.1. Applicant OMECO as an off-grid EC is fully dependent on bilateral power supply agreements to meet the energy needs of its consumers. Unlike on-grid utilities, applicant OMECO has no access to an electricity spot market to supplement its power supply.

23

36.2. Without the provisional approval or interim relief pending final evaluation of the Honorable Commission, OMECO will not be authorized to implement its PSAs with DPC, which the cooperative procured to address its increasing demand and to serve as a replacement capacity for its expiring PSAs with OMCPC. 36.3. Accordingly, should provisional authority or interim relief not be issued, and the final evaluation by the Honorable Commission remains pending by the time the PSAs with OMCPC expire, the entire Province of Occidental Mindoro shall face looming daily rotational blackouts, disrupting the lives of Mindoreños, compromising hospitals and healthcare services, and endangering lives. Schools may reduce hours or suspend classes, government services could be paralyzed, and the local economy would suffer severely as businesses struggle without reliable electricity.

37. Additionally, prospective lenders and shareholders require provisional approval of the OMECO-DPC PSA before providing the necessary financing to commence development activities. These activities are capitalintensive and construction must be expedited to ensure that applicant DPC can timely supply power to applicant OMECO. Thus, the issuance of a provisional approval shall enable applicant DPC to move forward with the project, supply additional, more stable, secure and reliable power to applicant OMECO, and reduce the UCME subsidy charges to all electricity consumers nationwide.

38. The Affidavits of Engr. Celso D. Garcia and Ms. Jasmin E. Lapan attesting to the truth of the above matters and in support of the prayer for provisional authority is attached as Annexes “CC”, and “DD” respectively.

39. Pursuant to the Honorable Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure, the Honorable Commission may exercise its discretion by 24 granting a provisional authority or an interim relief prior to a final decision.

It is understood that the provisional authority or interim relief sought by the Joint Applicants shall be subject to adjustments and other conditions that the Honorable Commission may impose.

PRAYER WHEREFORE, premises considered, Joint Applicants OCCIDENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. and DMCI POWER CORPORATION most respectfully pray that the Honorable Commission:

OMECO’s Generation Rate Impact of PSA (Php/kWh) With DPC Rate Impact 16.8157 (1.1040)

Without DPC 17.9196

Annex

%

%

F

1.

ISSUE AN ORDER declaring the Confidential Documents attached hereto as Annexes “P”, “Q”, “S”, “U”, “W”, “BB-20” and series, “BB-26”, “BB-22”, and “BB-23” as confidential information as well as directing that the same be treated with confidentiality and be protected from public disclosure;

2.

ISSUE the corresponding PROTECTIVE ORDER covering the Confidential Documents, in accordance with Section 2, Rule 4 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure;

3.

GRANT PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY to implement the OMECOw M

w

Documents/Information

“A”

OMECO-DPC PSA

“B” “C” “D”

OMECO Demand Side Management Program

16

“E”

OMECO Supply and Demand Scenario, Details of Existing Suppliers, Contract Utilization

18

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OMECO Average Daily Load Curve

18A

OMECO 2025 Distribution Development Plan

18B

“H”

OMECO 2025 Power Supply Procurement Plan

18C

“I”

OMECO Single Line Diagram

19

“J”

OMECO Performance Assessment of the System (SAIDI and SAIFI)

20

“K”

OMECO Explanation on Inapplicability of Requirements

“L”

Rate Impact Analysis

“M”

Executive Summary of the OMECO-DPC PSA

24

“N”

DPC Certificate of Incorporation, Articles of Incorporation, By-laws, Amended Articles of Incorporation and By-laws, and 2025 Amended General Information Sheet

04

“O”

DPC Verified Certification on Board of Directors

05

“P”

DPC Financial Model and Supporting Information*

25

“Q”

DPC Term Loan Certification*

25D

“R”

DPC Sample Bill

26D

“S”

DPC Sworn Statement on Fuel Matters*

30

“T”

DPC Relevant Technical and Economic Characteristics of the Generation Capacity

31

“U”

DPC Latest Audited Financial Statements*

32A

“V”

Net Heat Rate Certification

32B

“W”

DPC Bid Forms*

26I

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DPC Affidavit of Undertaking

“Y”

DPC Explanation Documents

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OMECO Board Resolution

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DPC Secretary’s Certificate

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OMECO Sworn CSP Report

“BB-1”

Proof of BAC Establishment

I

“BB-2”

CSP Observers (Invitations to Participate – PreBid Conference)

J

“BB-3”

CSP Observers (Invitations to Participate – Bid Opening)

“BB-4”

Invitation to Bid and Terms of Reference

m

Certificate of Conformity issued by the NEA

L

Publication of Invitation to Bid

M

“BB-7”

Posting of the Invitation to Bid – OMECO Website

N

“BB-8”

Posting of Invitation to Bid – Request to DOE pursuant to DOE Advisory 2024-07-001-SEC

N1

“BB-9”

Posting of Invitation to Bid – OMECO IEC Facebook Page

N2

“BB-10”

Posting of the Invitation to Bid – NEA Website

N3

“BB-11”

Final Instructions to Bidders

O

“BB-12”

Protest Mechanism and Dispute Resolution

W

“BB-13”

Draft PSA

S-7

“BB-14”

Summary of Pre-Bid Conference proceedings

Q-1

“BB-15”

Supplemental Bid Bulletin 1

Q-2

“BB-16”

Supplemental Bid Bulletin 2

Q-3

“BB-17”

Supplemental Bid Bulletin 3

20

Q-4

“BB-18” Eligibility Requirements submitted by Bidders and series “BB-19” Technical Capability Information Submitted by Bidders

R-1 to R-3

“BB-20” Financial Capability Information Submitted by and series Bidders*

R-5

“BB-21”

Acceptance of Bidding Procedures

S-1

“BB-22”

Bid Security submitted by applicant DPC

“BB-23”

Performance Security applicant DPC

by

V-2

“BB-24”

Certification issued by the Bidders attesting to its responsibilities and authorizing the BAC to verify the information submitted.

S-4

and

Warranty

R-4

S-2

“BB-25”

Technical Bid submitted by applicant DPC

S-5

“BB-26”

Financial Bid submitted by applicant DPC*

S-6

“BB-27” Checklist for Evaluation of Bids and series “BB-28” Resolution of the BAC recommending the award

U-1

“BB-29”

Abstract of Bids

U-2

“BB-30”

Bid Evaluation Report

U-3

“BB-31”

NEA Notice to Issue Award

U-5

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Pre-filing Annex Label 01

OMECO Certificate of Registration, Certificate of Franchise, Amended Articles of Incorporation and By-laws OMECO Secretary’s Certificate

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28. Copies of the following documents and/or information are attached to this Joint Application as annexes and made as integral parts hereof:

The formula to calculate HTO and HTFM shall be:

578

-

Affidavit of Service to LGUs

27. Considering that the OMECO-DPC PSA was a result of a valid CSP conducted by applicant OMECO, it follows that the rates in the PSA and the 17 G.R. No. 227670, Decision dated 3 May 2019. provisions contained therein already assure that applicant OMECO and its 18 customers will be provided with reliable, secure, and quality supply of power in the least-cost manner. Thus, the rates in the OMECO-DPC PSA should be implemented, as is, based on the subject PSA itself.

The product of the base CRR in PHP/kW-month, adjusted monthly based on the total available capacity, in kW, for the Billing Period.

The base CRR equivalent to PHP1,850/kW-month.

The total number of hours of the Billing Period.

The Equivalent Hours of actual Planned and Unplanned Outages in the Billing Period.

The Equivalent Hours of Outages due to Force Majeure affecting both Seller or Buyer for the Billing Period.

–

9/

United Power Rentals, Inc.; DMCI Power Corporation; Asian Solar Options Corp.; and RMS Petroleum Technology and Waste Management Corporation.

Invitations to Participate as CSP Observer were sent to the following:

DPC Affidavit in Support of Prayer for Provisional Authority

“EE”

The actual Energy Delivered in the Billing Period measured based on the agreed metering point.

26. Applicants emphasize that the Honorable Commission was mandated to ensure the provision of least cost supply to applicant OMECO’s consumers. In the case of Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, Inc. vs. Energy Regulatory Commission, et. al.17 (the “Alyansa Case”), the Supreme Court held that competitive public bidding is the most efficient, transparent, and effective guarantee that there will be no price gouging by distribution utilities. The Supreme Court in the Alyansa Case also held that the purpose of the CSP is to ensure transparency and competition in the procurement of power supply by distribution utilities so as to provide the least-cost electricity to the consuming public.

Indexation None

2. Capital Recovery Rate

“DD”

“Q” “S” “U” “W” “BB-20” and series “BB-26” “BB-22”

25. As shown above, the implementation of the PSA between the Joint Applicants will contribute to the reduction of dependence on Universal Charge for Missionary Electrification (“UCME”) subsidy, with an estimated blended True Cost Generation Rate reduction of PHP1.1040/kWh. Consequently, OMECO projects an estimated annual savings or reduction in the UCME subsidy in the amount of PHP235,772,403.13.

True Cost Generation Fee for the Billing Period in PHP. The fixed Capacity Recovery Rate (CRR) component for the Billing Period.

The Fixed Operations & Maintenance Rate (FOMR) component for the Billing Period.

Contracted Capacity in equivalent to 13,000kW. The Variable Operations & Maintenance Rate (VOMR) component for the Billing Period.

The actual Energy Delivered in the Billing Period measured based on the agreed metering point.

The fuel fee component for the Billing Period.

The applicable Value Added Tax, if any.

–

""!"

–

20.8. Prompt Payment Discount (“PPD”): Applicant DPC shall extend a three percent (3%) discount based on the nonfuel fee (sum of Capital Recovery Fee, Fixed Operation and Maintenance Fee, and Variable Operation and Maintenance Fee, if applicable) to applicant OMECO as prompt payment if:

11

Where:

–

2#$%&'

-

Annex “P”

24. Estimated Rate Impact. Below is the calculated impact of the implementation of the subject PSA on applicant OMECO’s overall generation rate, with and without the additional supply from applicant DPC, as follows:

!"#$ = {[(")) + $+,)) / ""!" ] + [(1+,) / 2#$%&' ) + $$]} × (1 + 16!)

"))

–

OMECO Affidavit in Support of Prayer for Provisional Authority

The weighted average fuel price, PHP/L, for the Billing Period expressed in PHP, supported by photocopies of fuel supplier invoice, monthly fuel inventory reports and delivery receipts.

The Fuel Consumption Rate, Li/kWh, of the generating unit equivalent to 0.2300 Li/kWh or the actual FCR for the Billing Period, whichever is lower.

23. Subsidized Approved Generation Rate. Consistent with the Honorable Commission’s Resolution No. 21, Series of 2011, applicant OMECO’s consumers shall pay only the SAGR approved by the Honorable Commission as the generation component of the retail rate.

1. Computation of Monthly Fees

–

$")

V-3

“CC”

30. Pursuant thereto, Applicants pray that the information contained in the documents enumerated below be treated as CONFIDENTIAL and that the same be continuously protected from public disclosure, except to the officers and staff of the Honorable Commission (collectively referred to as “Confidential Documents”):

$$ = $<@DBEFG@ × $") × 2#$%&' –

U-5A

29. Section 1, Rule 4 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure provides that a party to a proceeding before the Honorable Commission may move for information to be treated as confidential.

5. Fuel Fee

$<@DBEFG@

Notice of Award Notice to Proceed

ALLEGATIONS RELATIVE TO THE PRAYER FOR CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT OF INFORMATION

The Fuel Fee for the Billing Period (month) shall be calculated as follows:

Where:

“BB-32” “BB-33”

17

The Monthly Fees for the power plant shall be calculated according to the following formula:

!"#$

–

“The Commission believes that the WACC/internal rate of return of power suppliers in [National Power Corporation Small Power Utilities Group (“NPC-SPUG”)] areas should be relatively higher than those in the main grid considering the economic factors involved such as proximity of location, economic development in the area and economic situation of electric cooperatives, among others.”

Philippine Consumer Price Index Philippine Consumer Price Index Pass-through cost subject to fixed fuel consumption rates cap of 0.2300 li/kWh or actual consumption rate per billing period, whichever is lower.

VOMR

–

B9"BC=

The VOMR component equivalent to PHP0.7700/kWh The value of the Philippine Consumer Price Index on the month preceding the Billing Period.

The value of the Philippine Consumer Price Index (2018=100), All Income Households, All Items, one month before COD, published by the Philippine Statistics Authority. https://psa.gov.ph/price-indices/cpiir

It is worth noting that the Honorable Commission has previously recognized that the rate of return of power suppliers in off-grid areas should be higher than in on-grid areas. In a Decision dated 31 January 2011 in the consolidated cases of ERC Case Nos. 2005-042 RC and 2008-023 RC involving an EC serving an off-grid area, the Honorable Commission recognized the unique challenges faced by power suppliers in off-grid areas. Factors such as the remoteness of locations, lower levels of economic development, and the financial condition of ECs necessitate a higher Weighted Average Cost of Capital (“WACC”) or internal rate of return. The pertinent portion of the said Decision states:

The TCGR for each Billing Period shall be determined in accordance with the formulas set forth in SCHEDULE 2 of the PSA. If the Subsidy Fee is greater than zero (0), applicant DPC shall, within fifteen (15) Days from the end of each Billing Period commencing on the Delivery Date, deliver to applicant OMECO a Subsidy Invoice containing the computation of the Subsidy Fee to be paid by the NPC- Small Power Utilities Group (the “NPCSPUG”) based on the formulas under the OMECO-DPC PSA. Applicant OMECO shall review and verify applicant DPC’s computation of the Subsidy Fee for the applicable Billing Period and certify that such amounts were computed and paid in accordance with the pricing structure under the OMECO-DPC PSA. After applicant OMECO’s confirmation, applicant DPC shall deliver the certified Subsidy Invoice to NPC-SPUG.

CRR

B9"BC#$%&'<8

B9"BC#$%&'<8 B9"BC=

22. Equity and Financing Plan. The development, construction, and commissioning of the facility shall be funded through a combination of debt and equity.

Payments to applicant DPC shall be made by applicant OMECO from the collection of generation charges from its memberconsumers, according to the Subsidized Approved Generation Rate (“SAGR”) approved by the ERC. Further, subsidy shall be disbursed by the NPC and Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (“PSALM”) for applicant DPC to recover its costs according to the True Cost Generation Rate (“TCGR”), in accordance with Section 4 of the “Guidelines for the Setting and Approval of Electricity Generation Rates and Subsidies for Missionary Electrification Areas” adopted under ERC Resolution No. 21, Series of 2011, as amended, and the prevailing regulations of the ERC.

Applicant OMECO shall pay the Monthly Power Bill stated in the Invoice in full, free and clear from encumbrances and without set-off, counterclaim, or necessity of demand, no later than 1200 hours on the 30th day of the calendar month succeeding the applicable Billing Period (“Payment Due Date”). In case the Payment Due Date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or Holiday, the payment shall be made on the next Business Day. .

20.7. Tariff Structure and Rates: The unbundled tariff structure and rates, namely, the Capital Recovery Rate (“CRR”), Fixed Operations and Maintenance Rate (“FOMR”), Variable Operations and Maintenance Rate (“VOMR”), Fuel Fee (“FF”) as well as the formulas to compute the Total Generation Cost per billing period are provided in Schedule 2 of the OMECO-DPC PSA. A summary of the unbundled tariff and rates is provided below:

–

1+,).(,-

20.6. Payment of Fees: Applicant OMECO shall pay to applicant DPC each Month, on or before the 30th day of each Month upon receipt of the billing invoice, an amount equal to the Monthly Payment in accordance with SCHEDULE 2 of the PSA. Applicant DPC shall bear all costs of such transmission service, from the Delivery Point up to the Metering Point, including the cost of any electric losses incurred in such transmission.

1+,)()*+,&-) = 1+,).(,- ×

The facility shall be configured for interconnection with the Mindoro Grid and shall include the necessary interconnection facilities and controls, and shall be capable of delivering the Contracted Capacity through the applicable connection and metering points.

20.5. Seller and Buyer Obligations: Beginning on the Delivery Date, until the termination or expiration of the OMECO-DPC PSA, applicant DPC shall supply and deliver the Contracted Capacity and Associated Energy as detailed in SCHEDULE 3 of the PSA to applicant OMECO at the Delivery Point, and applicant OMECO shall purchase and pay applicant DPC the Contracted Capacity and the delivered Associated Energy at the rate provided in SCHEDULE 2 of the PSA resulting from the CSP and subject to the approval of the ERC.

The Capital Recovery Rate for the Billing Period (month) shall be calculated as follows:

A General Invitation to Participate as CSP Observer was also posted on applicant OMECO’s official website and social media page.

07 November 2025

The Variable Operations & Maintenance Rate for the billing month shall be calculated as follows:

The facility is designed to operate under baseload, intermediate, and peaking modes, and shall be completed and commissioned on a schedule targeting commissioning by February 2027 and commercial operation/delivery by 26 March 2027.

26 March 2027 (at 12:00NN); or the 26th day (at 12:00NN) of the calendar month immediately following the month in which the ERC issues a Provisional Authority (“PA”) or Interim Relief (“IR”), as applicable, or Final Authority (“FA”), subject to the completion/fulfillment of specific conditions outlined in Section 3.3 of the OMECO-DPC PSA, unless waived in writing by the Parties, (except for the ERC’s PA, IR, or FA, which shall not be subject to waiver).

Eight (8) prospective bidders purchased the Bidding Documents for Lot I, as follows:

1. Mindoro Progressive Multi-Purpose Cooperative; 2. Local Chamber of Commerce; 3. Homeowners Association Dona Consuelo Subd., Pagasa, San Jose; 4. Local Pastoral Council, Unida Christian Church, 5. Occidental Mindoro State College; 6. Parent-Teachers Association, San Roque Elementary School; 7. MCO-EC Wide Federation Chairman; 8. Nationwide Association of Consumers, Inc. ; 9. NEA; 10. DOE; 11. National Power Corporation (“NPC”); 12. National Transmission Corporation (“TransCo”); 13. Interested consumer.

30 October 2025

10

20.2. Delivery Date: Applicant DPC shall commence delivery of and make available at the Delivery Point the Contracted Capacity to applicant OMECO on Delivery Date. The Delivery Date shall be the later of either:

16!

1.

2.

3.

4.

NATURE OF THE APPLICATION

See Annex “Z” hereof.

See Annex “AA” hereof.

See Annex “A” hereof.

SEC.25. Retail Rate. – The retail rates charged by distribution utilities for the supply of electricity in their captive market shall be subject to regulation by the ERC based on the principle of full recovery of prudent and reasonable economic costs incurred, or such other principles that will promote efficiency as may be determined by the ERC. Distribution utilities may enter into bilateral power supply contracts subject to review by the ERC: xxx.

A Resolution Adopting the Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure of the Energy Regulatory

19. In compliance with the Notice to Execute Agreement issued by the NEA, applicants OMECO and DPC executed the OMECO-DPC PSA on 26 February 2026, which is the subject of this instant Joint Application.

Invitation to Bid was likewise posted on the NEA website and applicant OMECO’s official website and social media page except on the DOE CSP e-based portal due to the temporary shutdown of the 7 website as evidenced by DOE Advisory No. 2024-07-001-SEC.

With respect to Lot II, four (4) prospective bidders purchased the Bidding Documents, namely:

3.

The Applicants may be served with the orders, notices, and other processes of the Honorable Commission through their undersigned counsels at the addresses indicated herein.

3

Event Issuance of NEA Notice to Commence and Certificate of Conformity.

OMECO BAC sent letters to DOE, NEA, and the Honorable Commission informing them of the commencement of the CSP. Invitation to Bid with the Terms of Reference was published in the Manila Bulletin newspaper issues dated 23 and 30 October 2025.

1. Joint Venture of Bar Light and Power Corp. and Mindoro Grid Corporation; 2. United Power Rentals, Inc.; 3. Applicant DPC; 4. Greenheat Corporation; 5. Aggreko Energy Rental Solutions, Inc.; 6. Asian Solar Options Corp.; 7. RMS Petroleum Technology and Waste Management Corporation; and 8. Smartvolt Energy, Inc.

The filing of the instant Joint-Application is likewise authorized by virtue of the afore-mentioned Board Resolution.

2

23 February 2026

Contracted Capacity (in MW) Lot I Sablayan Area 4 Lot II MAPSA Area 13 Note: The PSA subject of this instant Joint Application pertains to the 13 MW Contracted Capacity for Lot II (MAPSA Area).

The filing of the instant Joint-Application is likewise authorized by virtue of the afore-mentioned Board Resolution.

4.

The instant Joint Application for approval of the Power Supply Agreement (“PSA”) entered into by and between applicants OMECO and DPC dated 26 February 2026 for the supply of 13 MW Contracted Capacity (the “OMECO-DPC PSA”)3 is being submitted to the Honorable Commission for its review and approval pursuant to Sections 254 and 45(b)5 of Republic Act No. 9136, otherwise known as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (the “EPIRA”), Rule 20(B) of the Honorable Commission’s Resolution No. 01, Series of 2021 (the “ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure”),6 the

29 January 2026 30 January 2026

● Contracted Capacity: Lot Location

Occidental Mindoro, namely: Abra de Ilog, Calintaan, Magsaysay, Mamburao, Rizal, Sablayan, San Jose, Santa Cruz, and Paluan. (the “OMECO Coverage Area”). For purposes of this Joint Application, applicant OMECO is represented herein by its General Manager, CELSO D. GARCIA, duly authorized by virtue of OMECO Board Resolution No. 47, Series of 2026.1

2.

Applicant DPC is a corporation duly organized and existing by virtue of and under the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with principal office address at the 3/F MN1 Bldg., DMCI Homes Corporate Center, 1321 Apolinario Street, Bangkal, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines. For purposes of this Joint Application, applicant DPC is represented by its Senior Manager, Ms. JASMIN E. LAPAN, duly authorized by virtue of DPC Secretary’s Certificate dated 13 March 2026.2

Issuance of BAC Resolution No. 01, Series of 2026 entitled “A Resolution Respectfully Recommending to the Board of Directors, through the NEA Project Supervisor and the General Manager, the Award of Contract for the Procurement of Seventeen Megawatts (17 MW) Contracted Capacity for Lot I – 4 MW (Sablayan Area) and Lot II – 13 MW (MAPSA Area) to DMCI Power Corporation (DPC), and Requesting the Boarding of Directors to submit to the National Electrification Administration (NEA) the Board Resolution: (i) Adopting the CSP-BAC’s Recommendation and (ii) Requesting the Issuance of the Notice to Issue Award.”

Issuance of Notice to Issue Award by the NEA. Issuance of the Notice of Award in favor of applicant DPC for Lot I and II of the CSP Applicant OMECO receives the Notice to Execute Agreement issued by the NEA, directing the EC to execute the NEA-approved PSAs with applicant DPC, within three (3) calendar days from receipt.

The value of the FOMR component equivalent to PHP650/kW-month

4. Variable Operations & Maintenance Rate

20.4. Contracted Capacity: 13 MW

ATTY. MARIA CORAZON C. GINES* Director III, Legal Service

ERC CASE NO. 2026-____ RC

09 January 2026

20.3. Supply of Power: The Seller shall supply the Contracted Capacity and the Associated Energy in accordance with the Dispatch Schedule of the System Operator and the Nomination Protocol, subject to the terms and conditions in this Agreement

OMECO BAC Technical Work Group Name Prudencio B. Morena Engr. Lee F. Sebastian John Patrick G. Loyzaga Engr. Vandrix O. Gaspar Engr. Austin John Arnaiz

On the same date, the respective bid proposals were evaluated in accordance with the parameters set forth in the Final Transaction Documents issued by the BAC, with applicant DPC emerging as the winning bidder for both Lots, having submitted the Lowest Calculated Bid for each.

The OMECO BAC conducted the post-qualification process was conducted to determine whether applicant DPC complied with and is responsive to all the requirements and conditions as specified in the bidding documents.

Finalized and completed the Detailed Evaluation and PostQualification Report

17, 18, 22, 29, December 2025 and 07 January 2026

OMECO BAC

16. Subsequently, the NEA issued the Certificate of Conformity No. NEA-RAO-COC-2025-12, dated 14 October 2025,16 stating that:

IN THE MATTER OF THE JOINT APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF THE POWER SUPPLY AGREEMENT ENTERED INTO BY AND BETWEEN OCCIDENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. AND DMCI POWER CORPORATION FOR THE SUPPLY OF 13 MW CONTRACTED CAPACITY, WITH PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY OR * Authority granted during Commission Meeting on 20 August 2025.

INTERIM RELIEF AND CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT OF INFORMATION

1. the Joint Venture of Bar Light and Power Corp. and Mindoro Grid Corporation; 2. United Power Rentals, Inc.; and 3. Applicant DPC.

1. United Power Rentals, Inc.; and 2. Applicant DPC.

FOR AND BY AUTHORITY OF THE COMMISSION:

Republic of the Philippines ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION Ortigas Center, Pasig City

The submission, opening, and evaluation of bid proposals was held at the Seasons Hotel and Convention Center, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro.

9 For Lot I, three (3) bidders submitted bid proposals, namely:

For Lot II, two (2) bidders submitted bid proposals, namely:

10. As of 2025, the average peak demand within the OMECO Coverage Area has already reached 33.48MW.12 Based on applicant OMECO’s 2025 Power Supply Procurement Plan (“PSPP”),13 the peak demand in the OMECO Coverage Area is projected to further increase annually, primarily due to sustained load growth driven by population increase, expansion of commercial and industrial activities, and continued energization of new connections.

WITNESS, the Honorable Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer FRANCIS SATURNINO C. JUAN and the Honorable Commissioners(This FLORESINDA G. BALDO-DIGAL, MARKO space is intentionally left blank.)

ROMEO L. FUENTES, AMANTE A. LIBERATO and PARIS G. REAL, Energy Regulatory Commission, in Pasig City.

Authority granted during Commission Meeting on 20 August 2025.

15 December 2025

Commission.

See Annex “EE”of the Joint Application.

See Annex the Jointapplicant Application. OMECO sources its power supply from the 9. “FF” Toofdate,

Occidental Mindoro Consolidated Power Corp. (“OMCPC”) OMCPC OMCPC

A statement of the relief desired.

WITNESS, the Honorable Chairperson and Chief Executive 2) A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and Officer FRANCIS SATURNINO C. JUAN and the Honorable Commissioners FLORESINDA G. BALDO-DIGAL, MARKO 3) The grounds relied upon.

ROMEO L. FUENTES, AMANTE A. LIBERATO and PARIS G. REAL, Energy Regulatory Commission, in Pasig City.

All interested parties filing their Petition to Intervene, Opposition or Comment are required to submit the hard copies thereof FOR AND

BY AUTHORITY OF THE through personal service, registered mail, or ordinary mail/private ERC CASE NO.five 2026-078 RC daysCOMMISSION: courier, within (5) working from the date that the same NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING were electronically submitted, as reflected in the acknowledgement PAGEe-mail 4 OF 4sent by the Commission. receipt ATTY. MARIA CORAZON C. GINES* Finally, all interested persons may III, be Legal allowed to join the Director Service scheduled virtual hearings by providing the Commission, through legal.virtualhearings@erc.ph, their respective e-mail addresses, indicating therein the case number of the instant Application. The Commission will send the access link/s to the aforementioned hearing platform within five (5) working days prior to the scheduled hearings.

LS: LRQ / RCD

1

1. Mindoro Progressive Multi-Purpose Cooperative; 2. Local Chamber of Commerce; 3. Homeowners Association Dona Consuelo Subd., Pagasa, San Jose; 4. Local Pastoral Council, Unida Christian Church, 5. Occidental Mindoro State College; 6. Parent-Teachers Association, San Roque Elementary School; 7. MCO-EC Wide Federation Chairman; 8. Nationwide Association of Consumers, Inc. ; 9. NEA; 10. DOE; 11. National Power Corporation (“NPC”); 12. National Transmission Corporation (“TransCo”); 13. Interested consumer.

following suppliers, with their respective contract capacities shown below: 3

Likewise, all other persons who may want their views known to the Commission respect RC to the subject matter of the case may file ERC CASE NO.with 2026-078 through at docket@erc.ph, NOTICEe-mail OF VIRTUAL HEARINGcopy furnish the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph, their Opposition or Comment thereon at least PAGE 4 OF 4 five (5) calendar days prior to the initial virtual hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice Finally, all interested persons may be allowed to join the and Procedure. No particular form of Opposition or Comment is scheduled virtual hearings by providing the Commission, through required, but the document, letter, or writing should contain the legal.virtualhearings@erc.ph, their respective e-mail addresses, following: indicating therein the case number of the instant Application. The Commission will send the access link/s to the aforementioned hearing platform (5) mailing working address, days priorand to the scheduled hearings.

1) within The five name, e-mail address of the person;

*

26 November 2025

–

$+,).(,-

Issuance of BB No. 2, containing the responses to advanced written clarifications, Pre-Bid Conference questions and clarifications, post– Pre-Bid Conference written clarifications, and the Revised Transaction Documents.

Issuance of BB No. 3, containing the responses to written questions and clarifications on the Revised Transaction Documents, the Final Terms of Reference, and the Final Transaction Documents, as well as a reminder of the bid opening date and the deadline for bid submission.

Invitations to Participate as CSP Observer for the opening and evaluation of bid proposals were sent to the following:

7.

Pursuant to the ERC 2026 CSP Guidelines, the timeliness of the pre-filing of this Joint Application shall be reckoned from 26 February 2026, the date of execution of the OMECO-DPC PSA.

The Commission has set the instant Joint Application for hearing, pursuant to the pertinent rules of the Commission, as follows:

06 July 2026 (Monday) at two oÕclock in the afternoon (2:00 P.M.)

17 November 2025

10 December 2025

8.

Power Situation in the Province of Occidental Mindoro. As an off-grid EC, applicant OMECO is entirely reliant on bilateral power supply contracts to meet the energy demands of its member-consumers. Unlike 7grid-connected distribution utilities, applicant OMECO has no access to an Prescribing the Policy for the Mandatory Conduct of the Competitive Selection Process by the electricity spot market, making it critical to secure sufficient long-term power Distribution Utilities for the Procurement of Power Supply for Their Captive Market.

8 Prescribing Policies to Enhance Procurement of Power Supply byservice Distributionfor Utilities the Captive supply agreements to the maintain uninterrupted its formemberMarket, Amending and Supplementing for This Purpose Department Circular No. DC2023-06-0021 9consumers.

A Resolution Adopting the Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure of the Energy Regulatory

Where:

The following CSP Observers were likewise present: 1. NEA Representative; 2. NPC Representatives; 3. TransCo Representatives; 4. DOE Representative; 5. Mindoro Progressive Multi-Purpose Cooperative Representatives; 6. Local Chamber of Commerce Representative; 7. Local Pastoral Council Representative; 8. Occidental Mindoro State College Representative; 9. San Roque Elementary School Representative; 10. MCO-EC Wide Federation Chairman; 11. Interested consumer.

STATEMENT OF FACTS

NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING

Platform

Office of the Municipal Mayor of San Jose; Office of the Presiding Officer of the Sangguniang Bayan of San Jose; Office of the Governor of the Province of Occidental Mindoro; Office of the Presiding Officer of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the Province of Occidental Mindoro; Office of the Mayor of Makati City; and Office of Presiding Officer of the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Makati City.

ALLEGATION ON TIMELINESS

Applicants. x---------------------------------------x

Date and Time

The Pre-Bid Conference was attended by the following prospective Bidders: 1. Aggreko Energy Rental Solutions, Inc.; 2. Asian Solar Options Corp.; 3. BAR Light and Power Corp.; 4. DMCI Power Corporation; 5. Greenheat Corporation; 6. RMS Petroleum Technology and Waste Management Corporation; 7. SmartVolt Energy, Inc.; 8. United Power Rentals, Inc.;

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

BUSINESS

B4

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

FGen independent directors defend P62-b investment The statement comes amid an ongoing dispute within the Lopez family over the transaction.

The independent directors said they exercised “objective and independent judgment” in evaluating the projects and concluded that the investment will benefit First Gen and its shareholders. ‘‘At the end of the review process, we concluded that First Gen’s investment in both PSH projects will benefit First Gen and its stockholders,” the independent directors said.

They said annual earnings attributable to First Gen’s stake in the projects, which could reach an estimated P16 billiononce the facilities are completed and fully operational, “have solid basis.”

By Jenniffer B. Austria

INDEPENDENT directors of First Gen Corp. have defended the Lopez-led firm’s P61.87 billion investment in two pumped-storage hydropower projects, saying the transaction was thoroughly reviewed and will generate long-term value for shareholders.

In a signed statement issued Tuesday, independent directors pe ID: F860E1F4-453F-4EA0-9DD0-97B587BC1B92 Alicia Rita Morales, Edgar Chua and Manuel Francisco Ayala said they are standing by their decision to support First Gen’s acquisition of a 33 percent stake in the 600-megawatt Wawa pumped-storage hydropower project in Rizal and the 1,400Manila MW Pakil project in Laguna.

Standard TODAY

NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL OF LICENSE OF FORESCOUT TECHNOLOGIES UK LTD.

investments in the Philippines. Unilever is one of the world’s largest consumer goods companies, with a strong presence in the Philippines and a broad range of products consumed by Filipino households. The company expressed interest in strengthening production facilities in the country to better serve the domestic market and support growth.

Tech firm Cirtek sells Quintel USA assets to JMA for $5.3 m CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

By Jenniffer B. Austria

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Directors of FORESCOUT TECHNOLOGIES UK LTD. doing business under the name and style of FORESCOUT TECHNOLOGIES PHILIPPINES has decided to close its Philippine Representative Office, effective December 31, 2024. The corporation shall file a Petition for Withdrawal of License with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in accordance with the requirements of the Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines and relevant SEC rules and regulations.

This Notice will serve as notice to all parties concerned of the withdrawal of license of the said foreign corporation.

Robert David Gillespie Chief Financial Officer Manila FORESCOUT TECHNOLOGIES UK LTD Standard TODAY doing business under the name and style of FORESCOUT TECHNOLOGIES PHILIPPINES Email: rob.gillespie@forescout.com

UNILEVER INVESTMENTS. Finance Secretary Frederick Go met with officials from Unilever to discuss potential new

C

IRTEK Holdings Philippines Corp. (CHPC) has agreed to sell substantially all the assets of its antenna business, Quintel USA Inc,, to Delaware-based John Mezzalingua Associates LLC (JMA) for up to $5.3 million.

The listed technology firm announced on June 16 that its board approved the asset purchase agreement on June 15. The strategic divestment is part of efforts to improve corporate liquidity, reduce exposure to operating losses and streamline the corporate structure.

The transaction includes an initial pay-

ment of $3.3 million within 14 days after closing. The remaining balance of about $2 million will be paid following the final determination of deductible liabilities.

The move comes as CHPC faces acute liquidity problems, which recently forced the company to suspend payments and the redemption of preferred

shares due to a lack of unappropriated retained earnings.

“The strategic divestment permits CHPC to optimize its corporate structure, shed outstanding third-party and operating liabilities and monetize its underlying business assets to improve overall corporate liquidity and operational focus,” the company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

Under the agreement, JMA will acquire selected customer contracts, accounts receivable, inventory, order backlog, business records and intellectual property rights, including Quintel trademarks and technology.

The buyer will assume certain liabilities, while other obligations will remain with CHPC.

PH stocks slip 0.43% as investors lock in profits after rally

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK percent. Industrial shares rose 0.30 perBy Jenniffer B. Austria TODAY cent, while services and mining and oil advanced 0.47 percent and 2.67 percent, PHILIPPINE shares slipped Tuesday as respectively.Trading, however, remained investors pocketed profits following the active, with value turnover reaching P7.73 market’s strong rally the previous day. billion, as investors repositioned ahead The benchmark Philippine Stock Exof key global risk events later this week, change index (PSEi) fell 0.43 percent, or First Metro Securities said.Market senti27.13 points, to close at 6,245.75, while ment was weighed down by losses in several heavyweight Ê Ê stocks, includÊ Ê ing AREIT Inc., Ê Ê which tumbled Ê Ê NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING 5.45 percent after NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING parent Ayala Land The 2026 Annual Meeting of the Stockholders of Harbor Star Shipping Services, inc.

Inc. sold P2.67 (“HSSSI”) will be held and conducted virtually1 via the Zoom online meeting platform on The 2026 Annual Meeting of the Stockholders of Harbor Star Shipping Services, inc. billion worth of Wednesday, 8 July 2026, at 9:30 A.M. for the following purposes: (“HSSSI”) will be held and conducted virtually1 via the Zoom online meeting platform on shares through a TOPLINE LINE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORP. TOP BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORP. 1.Ê at Call Order Wednesday, 8 July 2026, 9:30toA.M. for the following purposes: 19F Latitude LatitudeCorporate CorporateCenter, Center,Mindanao Mindanao Avenue, Cebu Business Park, Cebu Philippines block placement.

19F Avenue, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City,City, Philippines 2.Ê Certification of Notice and Quorum Contact No. (032) 6058 Contact No. (032) 505505 6058 Emperador Inc. 3.Ê Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held on 30 July 2025 1.Ê Call to Order also fell 3.75 per4.Ê Management Report NOTICE OFOF THE STOCKHOLDERS NOTICEOF OFANNUAL ANNUALMEETING MEETING THE STOCKHOLDERS 5.Ê Approval Audited Consolidated Financial Statements of HSSSI and its subsidiaries as cent to P15.40.

2.Ê Certification of Notice andofQuorum OFOF of 31 December 2025 Stockholders’ Meeting held on 30 July 2025 Century Pacific 3.Ê Approval of the Minutes of the Annual TOP DEVELOPMENT CORP. 6.Ê Ratification of all acts, resolutions and proceedings of the Board of Directors and of TOPLINE LINEBUSINESS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORP. Food Inc. was the 4.Ê ManagementManagement, Report done in ordinary course of business since the 30 July 2025 Annual day’s top index 5.Ê Approval of Audited Consolidated Financial Statements of HSSSI and its subsidiaries as Stockholders’ Meeting up to 8 July 2026 gainer, climb7.Ê Election Definitive Information Statement on the guidelines for Please take notice that the 2026 Annual Meeting of of 31 December 2025 of Directors Definitive Information Statement on the guidelines for Please take notice that the 2026 Annual Meeting of 8.Ê Appointment of External Auditor Stockholders of TOP LINE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT voting at the CorporationÕs website at topline.ph. ing 4.35 percent 6.Ê Ratification of all acts, resolutions and proceedings of the Board of Directors and of Stockholders of TOP LINE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT voting at the CorporationÕs website at topline.ph.

9.Ê Other Matters CORP. (the ÒCorporationÓ) shall be held on July 10, Only stockholders who have successfully registered to P30.Market Management, done in ordinary course of business since the 30 July 2025 Annual CORP. (the ÒCorporationÓ) be held on July 10, Only stockholders who have successfully registered 10.Ê Adjournment 2026, Friday at 8:30 am viashall remote communication within the prescribed period, together with the breadth remained 2026, Friday at 8:30 am via remote communication Stockholders’ Meeting up to 8 July 2026 within the period,andtogether through teleconferencing and/or videoconferencing, stockholders whoprescribed voted in absentia by proxy,with will the through teleconferencing and/or videoconferencing, negative, with The Board of Directors has fixed 8 June 2026 as the record date for the determination of Ê in accordance with the rules and regulations of the stockholders who voted in absentia and by proxy, will 7.Ê Election of Directors be included in the determination of quorum. stockholders entitled to Meeting and with in accordance the rules and regulations Ê be notified, participate, and vote at the Annual Stockholders’ 92 decliners outSecurities Exchange Commission, with of thethe be included in the determination of quorum.

8.Ê(“Stockholders Appointment ofof External Auditor Record”). Ê Securities and Exchange Commission, with the following program: numbering 84 Proxies, in the form provided by the Corporation, must 9.Ê Other Matters Ê following program: Proxies, in theto formthe provided by the Corporation, must be submitted CorporationÕs Corporate advancers, while NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING Stockholders of Record may only attend/participate via proxy, remote communication oram Registration 10.Ê Adjournment 8:30 - 9:30 be submitted to the CorporationÕs Corporate Secretary, at the Principal Office of the Corporation, 56 stocks were vote in absentia, subject to validation procedures.2 Only validated stockholders will8:30 be provided 9:30 StockholdersÕ Meeting Proper --10:30 9:30 am am Annual Registration The 2026 Annual Meeting of the Stockholders of Harbor Star Shipping Services, inc. at the Principal Office of thenot Corporation, later or Secretary, through investorrelations@topline.ph access to the Zoom meeting platform and can cast their votes in absentia on or before 309:30 June -10:30 2026 viaam Annual StockholdersÕ Meeting Proper unchanged.De(“HSSSI”)The will be held and conducted virtually via the Zoom online meeting platform on of Directorssecure has fixedonline 8 Junevoting 2026 asfacility. the record date for the determination of theBoard Corporation’s or June through investorrelations@topline.ph not than 29, 2026.

The proxies shall be validated on later The Agenda for the 2026 Annual StockholdersÕ Meeting Wednesday, 8 July 2026, at 9:30 A.M. for the following purposes: spite the pullback, stockholders entitled to be notified, participate, and vote at the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting July 3, 2026 Principal Office of thebe Company. shallAgenda be as follows: than June at 29,the 2026.

The proxies shall validated on The for the 2026 Annual StockholdersÕ Meeting foreign invesStockholders who wish to participate in the meeting via the Zoom online meeting platform 1.Ê CalloftoRecord”).

Order (“Stockholders TheJuly Corporate decisionOffice shall of be the finalCompany. and 3, 2026SecretaryÕs at the Principal shall be as follows: tors remained net 2.Ê and Certification of Notice andshould Quorumnotify the Office of the Corporate Secretary through a Letter of Intent to vote in absentia 1. Call to Order binding on the shareholders.

WEdecision ARE NOT, HOWEVER, The Corporate SecretaryÕs shall be final and 3.Ê toApproval of the Minutes of thetoAnnual Stockholders’ Meeting held on 30 be sent via e-mail asm-2026@harborstar.com.ph orJuly fill2025up the registration 2. formProof at of notice of the meeting and existence buyers, with net SOLICITING PROXIES. 4.ÊStockholders Management Report may only attend/participate via proxy, remote communication or 1. Call to Order of Record binding on the shareholders. WE ARE NOT, HOWEVER, www.harborstar.com.ph/asm2026registrationform on or before 25 June 2026. of quorum inflows reaching 5.Ê Approval of Audited Consolidated Financial Statements of HSSSI and its subsidiaries as 2. Proof of notice of the meeting and existence SOLICITING PROXIES. vote in absentia, subject to 2025 validation procedures.2 Only validated stockholders will be provided Stockholders may send their questions about the ASM of 31 December 3. Chairman and PresidentÕs Message P939.98 million. oftoquorum HSSSI is acts, not soliciting areDirectors tovia join of all resolutions and of the of and of the meeting but4.wish Reading and approval of the Minutes of the access to6.ÊtheRatification Zoom meeting platform and can castproxies. theirproceedings votesStockholders in absentia onBoard orwho before 30unable June 2026 and the Corporation to its Investor Relations Officer at The peso continStockholders may send their questions about the ASM Chairman and PresidentÕs Message vote on items done in theinagenda proxyofmust submit accomplished email to Management, ordinarybycourse business sincetheir the duly 30 July 2025 Annual proxy forms via3.

Annual Meeting of the Stockholders held on the Corporation’s secure online voting facility. investorrelations@topline.ph.

PursuantRelations to SEC Notice Stockholders’ Meeting up to 8 Julyon 2026 asm-2026@harborstar.com.ph or before 30 June 2026.

4. Reading and approval of theMeeting Minutesofofthethe ued to strengthen and the Corporation to its Investor Officer at July 18, 2025 and the Special 7.Ê Election of Directors dated March 12, 2025, the Stockholders may examine Annual Meeting Stockholders against the U.S. Stockholders held of on the December 2, 2025 held on investorrelations@topline.ph.

Pursuant to SEC Notice 8.Ê Appointment of External Auditor the Definitive Information Statement, and Stockholders may send their queries comments to the Management Report and other 18, 2025Presentation and the Special Meetingofof the who wish to participate in the meeting via theand Zoom online meeting platform 9.ÊStockholders Other Matters 5. July Management and Approval the dollar Tuesday, dated March 12, 2025, the Stockholders may examine in the Agenda to asm-2026@harborstar.com.ph on or before 3 July 2026.

Management Report on the CorporationÕs website and Stockholders held on Decemberfor 2, 2025 10.Êitems Adjournment Audited Financial Statements the year and to vote in absentia should notify the Office of the Corporate Secretary through a Letter of Intent closing at 60.32 the Definitive Information Statement, and through the PSE Edge Portal. There shall be an audio 5. Management Presentation ended December 31, 2025 and Approval of the to be The sent Board via e-mail toDefinitive asm-2026@harborstar.com.ph or record fill update theforregistration form atof Information containing the attendance, voting, and election ofThe Directors has fixed 8 June 2026 asStatement the the determination Management Report onASM. the CorporationÕs website and from 60.48 on and video recording of the All votes cast shall be Audited Financial Statements for the year 6. Appointment of External Auditor stockholders entitled to be notified, and at 25 theJune Annual Stockholders’ Meeting procedures, along withparticipate, the Notice, Proxy, Management Report, SEC Form 17-A, SEC Form www.harborstar.com.ph/asm2026registrationform onAgenda, orvote before 2026. throughby thethe PSEStock Edge and Portal.

There Agent, shall beStock an audio Monday.

Asian validated Transfer 7.

General ratification of all acts and resolutions ended December 31, 2025 (“Stockholders of Record”).

17-Q and other information related to the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting can be accessed at and video recording Transfer Service, Inc. of the ASM. All votes cast shall be equities extended of the Board of its committees, 6. Appointment ofDirectors External and Auditor http://www.harborstar.com.ph/investors/pse_disclosures.

Stockholders Recordproxies. may only attend/participate via proxy, communication validated by the Stock and Transfer Agent, Stock officers and management annual HSSSI is not of soliciting Stockholders who are unable to joinremote the meeting but wish toor 7. General ratification of allsince actsthe andlast resolutions their rally and oil vote in absentia, subject to validation procedures. Only validated stockholders will be provided May 4, 2026, Cebu City. stockholdersÕ meeting up to the of this Transfer Service, Inc. of the Board of Directors and itsdate committees, vote on items in themeeting agendaplatform by proxyand mustcansubmit theirvotes duly inaccomplished forms viatruly email tovia Very prices fell further access to the Zoom cast their absentia on proxy or before 30 June 2026yours, meeting and management since the last annual officers the Corporation’s secure onlineon voting facility. asm-2026@harborstar.com.ph or before 30 June 2026. on Tuesday, fu8.

Election of Board of Directors May 4, 2026, Cebu City.

(SGD) stockholdersÕ meeting up to the date of this eled by the USStockholders who wish to participate in the meeting via the Zoom online meeting platform 9.

Other Matters CHARLENE O. ANG meeting For the Board of Directors, and to vote in absentia may should notify Officeand of the Corporate Secretary throughReport a Letter Intent Iran peace deal 10.

Adjournment Stockholders send theirthe queries comments to the Management andofSecretary other Corporate 8. Election of Board of Directors to be sent via e-mail to asm-2026@harborstar.com.ph or fill up the registration form at and as tech firms items in the Agenda to asm-2026@harborstar.com.phononororbefore before253 July www.harborstar.com.ph/asm2026registrationform June2026.

2026.

9. Other Matters Ê The Board of Directors has fixed the Record Date at For the Board of Directors, tracked another 10. Adjournment 1 Ê During meeting, the presiding officer willare beunable at HSSSI’s principal officebut located corner HSSSI is notthe soliciting proxies.

Stockholders who to join the meeting wishatto2224 A. Bonifacio theStreet end of trading hours of the Philippine Stock blockbuster perBRIGITTE CARMEL C. LAPASARAN LIM The Definitive Information Statement containing the attendance, voting, and election Pres.

Osmeña Highway, Makati 1233.Ê vote on items in Sergio the agenda by proxy must Bangkal, submit their dulyCity, accomplished proxy forms via email to Exchange on June 18, 2026 for the determination of Corporate Secretary For thewith detailed registration and voting procedures, please visit http://www.harborstar.com.ph/ and refer to theof Directors has fixed the Record Date at asm-2026@harborstar.com.ph on or before 30 June 2026.

The Board formance by procedures, along the Notice, Agenda, Proxy, Management Report, SEC Form 17-A, SEC Form “Guidelines for Participation via Remote Communication and Voting in Absentia and through Proxy”. stockholders entitled to notice of and vote at such the end of trading hours of the Philippine Stock SpaceX.The eu17-Q and other information to the and Annual Stockholders’ Meeting can Report be accessed at Stockholders may sendrelated their queries comments to the Management and other meeting and any adjournment thereof.

BRIGITTE CARMEL C. LAPASARAN LIM Exchange on June 18, 2026 for the determination of phoria that swept items in the Agenda to asm-2026@harborstar.com.ph on or before 3 July 2026. http://www.harborstar.com.ph/investors/pse_disclosures.

Corporate Secretary Registration starts at to 8:30 a.m. ofand close at stockholders entitled notice andwill vote at such trading floors at The Definitive Information Statement containing the attendance, voting, and election exactly 9:15 a.m.adjournment The Corporation will only allow meeting and any thereof. the start of the procedures, along with the Notice, Agenda, Proxy, Management Report, SEC Form 17-A, SEC Form Very truly yours, attendance by remote communication and voting in 17-Q and other information related to the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting can be accessed at week continued Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. and will close at http://www.harborstar.com.ph/investors/pse_disclosures. absentia, subject to validation procedures. to propel buying exactly 9:15 a.m. The Corporation will only allow (SGD) Very truly yours, Stockholders who will participate in the ASM by remote amid relief at the attendance by remote communication and voting in CHARLENE O. ANG communication should pre-register at end of a threeabsentia, subject to validation procedures.

(SGD) Corporate Secretary https://tinyurl.com/TOPASM2026 on or before June CHARLENE O. ANG month conflict Corporate Secretary 29, 2026. Successful will receive Stockholders who willregistrants participate in the ASMan by email remote that sent shockÊ invitation with a complete how to join the at communication shouldguide on pre-register Ê waves through en1 ASM and how to cast votes in absentia.

For any 1 Ê During the meeting, the presiding officer will be at HSSSI’s principal office located at 2224 A. Bonifacio Street corner Ê During the meeting, the presiding officer will be at HSSSI’s principal office located at 2224 A. Bonifacio Street corner https://tinyurl.com/TOPASM2026 on or before June ergy markets and Pres.

Pres.Sergio SergioOsmeña OsmeñaHighway, Highway,Bangkal, Bangkal,Makati Makati City, City, 1233.

1233.ÊÊ registration concerns, please contact 29, 2026. Successful registrants will receive an email For the detailed registration and voting procedures, please visit http://www.harborstar.com.ph/ and refer to the 2 For the detailed registration and voting procedures, please visit http://www.harborstar.com.ph/ and refer to the global inflation investorrelations@topline.ph.

Please refer to the “Guidelines for Participation via Remote Communication and Voting in Absentia and through Proxy”. invitation with a complete guide on how to join the “Guidelines for Participation via Remote Communication and Voting in Absentia and through Proxy”. soaring.

ASM and how to cast votes in absentia. For any Manila

Standard

the broader all shares Index lost 0.27 percent, or 9.32 points, to 3,425.03.”The main gauge succumbed to some fatigue, giving up early gains as investors locked in profits following yesterday’s outsized rally,” First Metro Securities said.The financial sector led the decline, dropping 1.58 percent, followed by holding firms, which shed 0.75 percent, and property stocks, down 0.57

(MS-JUNE 17/24/JULY 1, 2026)

1

2

2

2

registration

concerns,

please

contact

investorrelations@topline.ph. Please refer to the

COMMUNITY

C1

SPOTLIGHT

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026 digital.manilastandard@gmail.com / digital.mktg@manilastandard.net PETER PAUL DURAN, Issue Editor

Bayanihan by the lake

By Alex Arceta and DJ Oracion Photos by Mark Mendoza and Angelo Gallardo

B

EYOND being a tourist spot, Yambo Lake is part of the identity of San Pableños and nearby Nagcarleños, serving as an important source of income for many families in the area.

Tour guide Raymond Sotalbo navigates a bamboo raft across Yambo Lake, where tourism provides livelihood opportunities for local families while supporting community-led efforts to protect one of Laguna’s treasured natural attractions.

Yambo Lake signage

YLMC Tour guides on duty by the lake

“Ang Yambo Lake ay isa sa mga pamanang kultural ng San Pablo,” said Francis Dionglay, an AP Teacher and cultural mapper. “Malaking bahagi ng kabuhayan ng taga San Pablo ay galing dito.”

In recent years, local residents have strengthened their collective efforts to manage and protect the lake through the Yambo Lake Multipurpose Cooperative (YLMC). According to YLMC Chairperson Eden C. Doria, the cooperative traces its roots back to 2015 and experienced significant growth after the pandemic.

The organization became the Yambo Lake Credit Cooperative in 2022 before evolving into its current multipurpose cooperative structure in 2025.

For Raymond Sotalbo, one of the tour guides of YLMC, the lake remains an essential source of livelihood. “Dito po nakukuha ‘yong mga necessity, pangangailangan... Dito ko po nakukuha ‘yong pinanggagastos ko sa pamilya ko,”.

Sotalbo is only one of the many whose income from the tourism initiative helps support daily

Logo of Yambo Lake Multi-purpose Cooperative

needs and sustain household expenses, highlighting how closely the community’s welfare is tied to the lake.

Beyond providing livelihood opportunities, Sotalbo also noted that one of their goals is to showcase the rich area to a wider audience.

“Pangalawa, ‘yon nga po para makilala rin ang bayan namin na Nagcarlan,” he said.

At the same time, YLMC members actively work to preserve Yambo Lake’s condition. Regular cleanup drives, locally referred to as “bayanihan,” are held every Friday.

Tour guide Julius Corcega shared that “Every Friday may tinatawag po kaming bayanihan o yung paglilinis dito sa kapaligiran ng lawa. Pero kahit hindi Biyernes, basta may makita kami dyaan palutang-lutang na basura, plastic o ano man, pinupulot po namin at tinatapon sa basurahan.” These efforts ref lect a shared responsibility to protect the lake that sustains them.

Doria extends this story beyond the community, inviting visitors to become part of it. “Sa pagpunta po ninyo, marami din po kayong matutulungan,” she said.

Behind every visit is a family supported, a livelihood sustained, and a community that continues to hold on to its lake with gratitude and care.

PUPOUS expands education for indigenous communities THE Polytechnic University of the Philippines Open University System (PUPOUS) marks another signif icant milestone in its commitment to accessible and inclusive education through its par tnership with the Iram Community in Olongapo City, Zambales.

T h roug h t h is collaborat ion, qu alif ied a nd deser vi ng I ndigenous Peoples (I Ps) will be given t he oppor t u n it y to pu rsue ter t ia r y educat ion t h roug h O pen Dist ance a nd e -Lea r n i ng (ODeL), brea k i ng ba r r iers of geog raphy and access wh ile br i ngi ng qu alit y h ig her educat ion closer to t hei r com mu n it ies.

A key step in this initiative was the administration of the PUP College Entrance Test and Evaluation at Iram High School by the Off ice

Text and photos by Diana Noche EACH day we see people wearing frayed clothes mumbling incendiary words on the streets, carrying on both sides of the conversation.

Then there are the ranters, the ones furiously slicing the air with their arms, their eyes sharp but blank.

These people lead stilled lives like being in a rut and, in our eyes, loving it. Theirs is a truncated sense of the future; their past was rooted from nowhere.

They walk wounded without completely realizing it, treading an irreversible course from which it is difficult, if not impossible, to break away.

When dawn creeps over after depths of darkness, despite a great drain of physical vitality, a new day above the ground for them might be a good day to nevertheless start afresh. Is God still alive?

Every day we see them—poor and nameless—with our hands-off, shift-the-eyes indifference and to-

Members of the Iram Indigenous Community take the PUPOUS entrance examination at Iram High School.

ken acknowledgment of their plight.

They are people without destination and seemingly prepared for a difficult life, carrying the small bundles of their existence. We wonder: how long has it been since they last used a toothbrush? Or taken a bath?

The common belief that these people somehow deserve the deprivation they endure has taken root in many of us. Yet few stop to imagine what their days are really like—waking to the noise of traffic, searching for food, facing hunger that goes beyond an empty stomach and settles deep into the spirit.

Homelessness is more than the absence of shelter. It is the loss of comfort, stability, and often, connection. Many survive physically, but carry the exhaustion of lives shaped by hardship. Amid the endless flow of people around them, they remain unseen, unnoticed, and too often forgotten.

It is easier to look away from difficult realities—the homeless, the

of the Counseling and Psychological Ser vices (OCPS) and the PUPOUS Student Ser vices Off ice, opening doors for future lear ners to become par t of the PUP community.

The par tnership was for malized through the signing of Memoranda of Agreement for Academic and Extension Collaborations between PUP and the Iram Community, ref lecting a shared vision of empowering Indigenous Peoples through education.

As PUPOUS continues to reach underser ved sectors, this initiative stands as a testament to the University’s mission of democratizing access to higher education and creating oppor tunities for ever y Filipino lear ner, regardless of location or circumstance.

Childhood lung growth slowed by pollution, researchers warn

By Robert Harland AIR pollution is often spoken of as an environmental issue, but a new UK study by the University of Leicester makes clear it is also a direct threat to children’s health.

Researchers followed thousands of youngsters from birth into adulthood and found that exposure to traffic fumes and fine particles slowed lung growth during the critical years of adolescence. The damage is permanent: once lung capacity is stunted, it never catches up. That means children carry reduced reserves into adulthood, leaving them more vulnerable to asthma, infections and even heart disease later in life.

For parents in cities like Manila, this should be deeply worrying. Metro Manila’s air quality regularly exceeds World Health Organization guidelines, with diesel exhaust, construction dust and industrial emissions combining into a haze that blankets the city. Every day, infants and toddlers breathe this air during the most formative stages of lung development. The UK study also found that exposure during pregnancy already affects lung function by age eight, meaning expectant mothers are passing on compromised health before their children even take their first breath.

The implications are stark. A child whose lungs fail to reach full capacity is at risk of lifelong respiratory problems. The study equates low lung function with the same level of cardiovascular risk as high cholesterol. In a city where traffic congestion is constant and playgrounds often sit beside busy roads, the danger is not abstract — it is immediate.

It is not enough to shrug off smog as an unavoidable part of urban life. The science shows that every breath matters and every day of exposure chips away at a child’s future health. Parents must be vigilant: avoiding peak traffic hours, using air purifiers at home and pressing schools and barangays to create clean air zones around classrooms and play areas. But beyond individual action, there is a collective responsibility. Stricter vehicle emission standards, greener urban planning and stronger enforcement of clean air laws are essential if we are to protect the next generation.

This is not just about statistics or policy. It is about the lungs of our children, their ability to grow, thrive and live long, healthy lives. For Manila’s families, the message is clear: air pollution is a child health crisis and ignoring it is no longer an option.

A haze that blankets the city. Robert Harland

The humanity we often miss Home for the night

A helping hand

beggars, the people talking to themselves—than to confront the circumstances that brought them there. But turning away does not make them disappear.

Pity alone is not enough. Understanding is a better place to start. The streets and sidewalks they call home are not places any-

one would choose. These are people who once belonged to families, had friends, nurtured ambitions, and carried dreams of their own.

The next time we see them walking toward us, let us remember that they are not lives to be discarded or ignored. They are people among us— people just like us.

C2

SHOWBIZ

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer Director Lawrence Roxas (center) with the cast of his new film ‘Behind the Smile’

F

ILMMAKER Lawrence Roxas is using the power of storytelling to deliver a public health message, hoping his new drama Behind the Smile can help raise awareness, encourage testing, and reduce stigma as HIV cases continue to rise in parts of the country.

Roxas said the project came from concern over rising cases in his home province of Oriental Mindoro, which has the highest number of HIV cases in the MIMAROPA region.

“Na-inspire po ako dito kasi sa lumalaganap na cases dito sa Pilipinas,” he said at a press conference. “At sa MIMAROPA, ang Calapan po, ang Oriental Mindoro

health, anxiety, and depression.

Produced by GO Films, EVTR Trading and Construction, and the Calapan City government, the project stars Ejay Falcon, Jennica Garcia, BJ Forbes, Mike Lloren and introduces beauty queen Dana Alexa.

Falcon said he is proud the film brings attention to his home province and involves local creators.

Director turns to film to raise HIV awareness Very Wang

Nickie Wang

Ejay Falcon joins ‘Behind the Smile’ as the film brings a public health advocacy and local storytelling together in Oriental Mindoro

Jennica Garcia backs the film’s call for wider HIV education as the cast pushes for testing, awareness, and informed conversations

BJ Forbes helps carry the film’s message on HIV awareness, urging viewers to learn, test, and support without judgment

ang pinakamaraming cases ng HIV.” The film is a drama that integrates Roxas’s advocacy into its storytelling, drawing from both personal narratives and information about HIV, mental

“Very proud po ako na ang director namin, si Direk Lawrence, tagaOriental Mindoro. At ang producer po namin, taga-Oriental Mindoro din.

At yung pelikula po ay ginawa sa

aming probinsiya,” he said.

He added he joined the project because of its message and relevance to public awareness on HIV. Roxas explained that the film

Coco Martin, Julia Montes thrill fans with explosive ‘Sigabo’ trailer

Rotary Club of Manila names GMA Network Television Station of the Year LEADING broadcast company GMA Network has been named “Television Station of the Year” at the 2026 Pro Patria Journalism Awards of the Rotary Club of Manila, held June 11 at the Fairmont Hotel.

GMA News vice president for News Programs and Specials and officer-in-charge Michelle Seva received the award on behalf of the network.

Multi-awarded broadcast journalist Atom Araullo was honored as “Television Broadcaster of the Year.”

Seva, speaking on behalf of GMA Network, underscored that the recognition extends beyond the company and its employees, noting it also reflects the trust of Filipino viewers.

“Their trust is a privilege we never take for granted,” she said.

Addressing fellow media practitioners, Seva emphasized the role of journalism in safeguarding democracy.

“Collectively, all of us in this room share a common responsibility: to ensure that facts remain stronger than fear, rumor, and division.

Because democracy is strongest when citizens have access to information that they can trust,” she said. “Asahan po ninyo na kami sa GMA ay mananatiling Walang kinikilingan. Walang pinoprotektahan. Noon at ngayon, serbisyong totoo.”

The Pro Patria Journalism Awards, presented by the Rotary Club of Manila, honor media work that upholds truth, promotes patriotism, and

avoids a documentary format, opting instead for a narrative approach meant to build emotional connection.

“It’s not like a documentary. It’s really a drama,” he noted. “You can see more of the writer and director’s creativity, and you feel the story more deeply.”

The cast emphasized that the film’s advocacy made it meaningful to join the project.

BJ Forbes stressed that open discussion is key to fighting misinformation and stigma around HIV. “For me, all aspects should be talked about. Nothing should be hidden because that’s how people learn and how the right information is shared,” he explained.

He also warned against stigma in everyday conversations.

“It should not be included in bad jokes. It should not be used to insult others. We should talk about these things to learn more and support others,

not to judge,” he added.

Forbes encouraged the public to seek confidential testing and guidance through groups such as LoveYourself PH. Jennica Garcia shared that HIV testing is already part of standard prenatal care.

“When you are pregnant, you undergo many tests. HIV testing is included,” she shared.

She added that education plays a major role in addressing fear and misinformation.

Dana Alexa noted that discussions on sexual health should become more open and normalized.

“Talking about sex education is very controversial. People are really afraid to talk about it,” she noted. “If you tell your partner, ‘Let’s go test,’ people get offended. But it should be normalized.”

Roxas added that the production is also coordinating advocacy screenings with medical professionals who will explain HIV-related issues after showings and encourage testing.

He shared that some screenings will also include discussions with health experts and people living with HIV to help personalize the issue.

GMA News’ officer-in-charge Michelle Seva (left) and Atom Araullo receive Pro Patria Journalism Awards recognition for his work on public service, trust, and responsible reporting

supports nation-building through responsible reporting.

Over the years, GMA Network has received multiple recognitions from the Rotary Club of Manila for its public service journalism.

The network has also been named Most Trusted TV Network for nine consecutive years by the Trusted Brand Awards of Reader’s Digest.

It likewise topped brand trust rankings among major Philippine news outlets in the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism’s Digital News Report. In digital performance, GMA Network ranked No. 13 in the Tubular Labs Leadership Worldwide Ranking for April 2026.

Araullo, meanwhile, has earned recognition for his documentary work covering social and environmental issues.

He anchors GTV’s State of the Nation, hosts The Atom Araullo Specials, and is part of I-Witness.

At the 2026 New York Festivals TV & Film Awards, his documentary “Golden Tree” won Bronze in the Environment & Ecology category, while “Baby Makers” received a finalist certificate.

Atom Araullo (fifth from right) earns Television Broadcaster of the Year for documentary work covering social, environmental, and public-interest issues

Coco Martin leads ‘Sigabo’ as Gabo, a former convict drawn into a secret mission in exchange for freedom

ABS-CBN has released the official trailer of Coco Martin’s Sigabo, teasing a mix of action, romance, and drama ahead of its June 22.

The trailer features cinematic action sequences alongside light, romantic moments between Coco Martin and Julia Montes, who headline the series.

Martin, who serves as actor, co-director, and co-producer, described the project as a personal milestone and an upgraded take on his earlier action series.

“Sobra akong proud na proud sa project na ito, kasi from Probinsyano to Batang Quiapo talagang in-upgrade namin,” he said in a TV Patrol interview.

The series marks his first original concept, blending action with romance and comedy aimed at Filipino audiences.

In Sigabo, Martin plays Gabo, a former convict who takes on a secret mission in exchange for his freedom. He later crosses paths with Sam, a lawyer and undercover investigator played by Montes.

Industry figures, including filmmaker Erik Matti, producer Roselle Monteverde, and actors Lito Lapid and Mark Lapid, have praised Martin’s work in action television, crediting him with sustaining interest in the genre.

“It’s Coco who really brought back the excitement of action movies and series,” Matti said in an interview with TV Patrol. “When he does action, it’s action all the way.”

The cast also includes JC De Vera, JM De Guzman, Arci Muñoz, Sue Ramirez, Jhong Hilario, Edu Manzano, Carmi Martin,

Julia Montes plays Sam, an undercover investigator, in the new action-romance series

Chanda Romero, Irma Adlawan, and Joey Marquez.

Ahead of the premiere, Martin and Montes have been joined by the cast in a nationwide motorcade series to promote the show.

After stops in Metro Manila and Cebu, upcoming events are scheduled in Cavite on June 18, Palawan on June 20 and Pampanga on June 28.

Sigabo premieres June 22 across ABS-CBN platforms, including A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, and iWant.

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

C3 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026

Viral ‘academic weapon’ star meets fans in Manila

By Jasper Valdez

Joseph Peter Gonzales

T

O many Filipino fans, Linda Walker is a character from a viral Chinese micro-drama who has become a symbol of focus, discipline, and persistence—the kind of student who keeps going even when the work gets difficult.

Known for playing the viral “academic weapon” in The Heiress Who Won With Brains, Chinese actress Zhang Yingfei brought that same message to Manila during her recent visit, where she met fans and spoke about education, personal growth, and the value of taking things one step at a time.

During the June 10 meet-and-greet, held at SM North EDSA Annex, Zhang was asked what advice she would give students who feel pressured by schoolwork.

She pointed to steady progress rather than shortcuts. “In learning, don’t set yourself too big a goal. I think you can

Zhang Yingfei (left) and Candice Tan help bridge the conversation with Filipino fans as the actress shares lessons from playing Linda Walker

Shticks

Chinese actress Zhang Yingfei shares Linda Walker’s message of discipline and steady progress with Filipino students

Students and creators pose for photographs with vertical drama sensation Zhang Yingfei (center) at her meet and greet in Quezon City

start step by step,” she said.

For Zhang, Linda Walker is She suggested breaking not just a role that opened new challenges into smaller goals doors. She said the character and reminded young people also reminds her how to handle to seek help from a doctor, difficult days. When she feels teacher, or trusted adult when emotionally unstable, she thinks problems become difficult to about how Linda would respond. handle alone.

Linda, she said, is someone For the Federation of who “works hard and never Filipino-Chinese Chambers gives up.” of Commerce and Industry, That sentiment resonated with Inc. (FFCCCII), Zhang’s FFCCCII Youth Committee popularity was a way to Linda Walker fans gather at SM North EDSA as Zhang Yingfei chairman Peter Mangasing, bring students into a bigger turns her viral popularity into a cultural exchange centered who said Linda Walker’s online conversation. Wilson Lee on learning and perseverance popularity says something about Flores, the group’s board what young people admire. member and Public Information Committee chairman, said “By making ‘academic weapons’ spread across the the visit was organized around education, tourism, and the country, you prove that our young generation looks up to long friendship between Filipinos and Chinese. intelligence, hard work, and resilience,” Mangasing said.

“Our objective here is education for a better future,” He also urged the youth not to leave inspiration on their Flores said. He added that education remains “the most screens. “Don’t just watch excellence on your screens. Live effective weapon to fight poverty and social injustice.” it,” he said.

Cult hits, tech, and nostalgia take over Iloilo in Japanese toys exhibit

Pokémon, Ultraman, and other Japanese pop culture icons anchor an Iloilo exhibition tracing how toys connect memory, design, and play across generations

By Seymour Barros Sanchez FOLLOWING a successful inaugural run at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila in Bonifacio Global City, the vibrant world of Japanese toy culture is officially heading to Iloilo.

The Japan Foundation, Manila, in partnership with the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art, is proud to present “OMOCHA: Japanese Toys Today.”

Opening with an exclusive preview reception on June 26 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., the exhibition will be accessible to the public from June 27 to July 26, Tuesdays through Sundays, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the 2nd Floor Galleries 1 and 2 of ILOMOCA in Iloilo City.

Admission to the Iloilo leg of the traveling exhibition and all its accompanying side events is entirely free. Operating under the bilateral theme “Weaving the Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, and Possibilities,” the event celebrates cultural exchange as a bridge between nations.

The presentation is also tied to the Next Generation Co-Creation Partnership – WA 2.0, a people-centered initiative designed to foster deeper cultural dialogue, collaboration, and mutual understanding between Japan and ASEAN countries.

“Omocha” ( ), the Japanese word for “toys,” carries a cultural legacy that stretches back centuries.

The exhibition features more than 70 types of contemporary Japanese toys from

Tomica highlights Japan’s long-running toy engineering tradition as the Iloilo showcase brings together interactive displays and collectibles

‘Home Along Da Riles’ cast reunites, revives Cosme family magic AT the recent media conference for Home Along Da Riles (Da Reunion) held at the Makabagong San Juan National Government Center, nostalgia took center stage as the original cast revisited the sitcom that ran for 11 years and left a lasting mark on Philippine television.

Present at the event were Claudine Barretto, Nova Villa, Vandolph Quizon, Smokey Manaloto, Maybeline dela Cruz, Sherilyn ReyesTan, Dang Cruz, Cita Astals, and Boy 2 Quizon, who also directs the film.

Boy 2 said he believes the project would make his grandfather, the late comedy icon Dolphy, proud.

“I’m sure that my grandfather (Dolphy) will be proud of the outcome of this project, especially since most of the main cast members are intact.

I’m happy to continue his legacy,” he said.

For Vandolph Quizon, the film revisits what happens to the Cosme family after Kevin’s departure.

“Here, people will see what happened to the Cosme family after Kevin left. Even if he’s not in the movie, my dad’s presence can be felt in all the scenes,” he said.

Smokey Manaloto noted how the story was adjusted for today’s viewers while keeping its heart intact.

“We adjusted the roles to fit with today’s generation. Humor is present, but the core is about the family. Each character is relatable,” he said.

Boy 2 added that the film carries lessons that still resonate across generations.

“It’s a must-watch for a contemporary audience. It has valuable lessons to impart. Comedy is universal. It appeals to everybody,” he said.

Nova Villa also shared her thoughts on the continuation of the Cosme family story.

“It’s also interesting to know what life is for Cosme’s kids after he left.

I’m pretty sure viewers would want to know,” she said.

Boy 2 admitted the reunion required an adjustment period at the start of production.

“Yes, during the initial shooting days, we were still adjusting. It’s been years since we all worked together. But after that, everything went fine,” he said.

Claudine Barretto said the cast quickly found their rhythm again.

“We missed one another. But basically, we’re like one big, happy family. Even if we haven’t seen each other for ages, the closeness always remains,” she said.

On the film’s central message, Nova pointed to family support.

“No matter how many problems come your way, when you have your family to back you up, it’s more than enough,” she said.

At the end of the conference, Claudine also praised Boy 2 for bringing the project together.

“For everything that he has done just to make this project a reality, kudos. He and Vandolph, actually. I would just like to say good job to him,” she said.

various brands and manufacturers, alongside informative panel displays detailing their historical roots.

Visitors will be taken on a generational journey tracing how these objects emerged in popular culture during the Edo period, originally handcrafted as symbolic talismans meant to pray for the health, protection, and good fortune of children.

Guests will also have the chance to get up close to globally recognized pop culture icons that have captured hearts across generations, including Gundam, Hello Kitty, Pokémon, and Transformers.

In addition, visitors will have the opportunity to explore how traditional craftsmanship meets innovation, as the exhibition features TOMY Asia’s well-loved classic lines, Plarail and Beyblade, alongside modern toys infused with robotics, digital technology, and hightech ingenuity.

True to the spirit of “omocha,” the exhibition is designed to be fully immersive, featuring interactive play areas where people of all ages can gain hands-on experience with both traditional and modern toys while keeping their childlike sense of wonder alive.

Housed in the iconic Casa Emperador Building within the Iloilo Business Park, ILOMOCA stands as the first museum in the Visayas dedicated entirely to modern and contemporary art. Spanning 3,000 square meters across

The ‘Home Along Da Riles’ reunion brings the Cosme family back to theatre screens

Godzilla and other collector pieces form part of the exhibit, which links Japanese craftsmanship with contemporary pop culture

three floors, the museum serves as a community hub where global art meets local audiences. By hosting this international showcase, ILOMOCA continues its mission to make art, culture, and dialogue accessible in everyday life.

Whether you are a lifelong collector, a nostalgia chaser, a design enthusiast, or a family looking for an enriching weekend activity, “OMOCHA: Japanese Toys Today” invites visitors to rediscover the joy, artistry, and connection behind the world of play.

For full exhibition schedules, interactive area guidelines, and public program details, please visit the official social media channels of The Japan Foundation, Manila, and ILOMOCA.

*** ACTOR-DIRECTOR Coco Martin and actress Julia Montes spoke about what keeps their relationship grounded amid years together.

For Julia, faith remains at the center.

“I believe that it’s good that you have a center, which is God. I feel so blessed that I was able to find a partner like that in Coco. Especially since we Filipinos are family-oriented. Despite the ups and downs in our relationship, there is God in the center. That’s my greatest blessing,” she said.

She added that Coco’s outlook has also shaped their bond.

“You know, Coco is blessed because he knows how to share. He’s got so much faith. And that helped in our relationship. We all know that nobody’s perfect, and so are relationships. You will face challenges along the way.

What’s important is you have a strong center,” she said.

Coco, meanwhile, described how their partnership extends into business.

“We’re past that stage when you get tickled pink just seeing each other.

Now, whenever we go to a place, we think about what good business we can build out of it,” he said.

He cited their company CCM Films as an example of their shared work.

LIFE

C4

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Virgin at 21

VLFXXI goes ‘Hubo’t Hubad’ with 12 fresh scripts

Dustin Celestino’s ‘Elehiya’ shows an impressionistic portrayal of the bond between fathers and sons

By Nickie Wang

V

IRGIN Labfest returns for its 21st edition this June with 12 new one-act plays that explore identity, memory, faith, politics, family, and personal struggles under the theme “Hubo’t Hubad.”

The annual festival of untried, untested, and unstaged plays, which runs until June 28 at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (CCP Black Box Theater), features works by eight first-time playwrights and four returning writers.

Organized by the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the festival takes its theme from the Filipino words for

“bare” and “stripped,” inviting audiences to examine stories that reveal the complexities of the human experience.

Among the featured plays is Password123, Pilipinas321 by Anthony Kim Vergara, which follows a cybersecurity expert working in an underground operation disguised as a technical support center. Elijah Felice Rosales’ Human Rights Story of the Year centers on an award-winning journalist whose achievements are challenged during a farewell gathering.

Floyd Scott Tiogangco’s Patayin ang mga Surot unfolds on the final night of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, while Neil Arkhe Azcuna’s Balos places medical workers in Marawi in a difficult moral dilemma after a wounded fighter arrives at their hospital.

Other new works include Alab Usman’s Haram, about queer Muslims navigating faith and love; Gab Mactal’s Lualhati, which revisits a past romance between a philosophy professor and a former nun; and Dustin Celestino’s Elehiya, an impressionistic exploration of fathers and sons.

Ron Evangelista’s She’s Electric examines relation-

Jerom Canlas’ ‘Footprint’ talks about the complexities of grief through the lens of a family’s utilization of a virtual memory archive

Virgin Labfest XXI presents new one-act plays that strip down themes of identity, faith, family, and personal struggle

ships and sexuality through the story of a former womanizer who finds love, while Faith Ferrer Lacanlale’s Betamax follows a woman whose grip on reality changes after an accident.

Jerom Canlas’ Footprint explores grief through a family’s use of a virtual memory archive, while John Lapus’ Taksyapo! connects two strangers sharing stories inside a rage booth in Tarlac. Gerald Manuel’s Buhaghag rounds out the lineup with a psychological story about a woman haunted by a mysterious figure.

The festival will also restage three works from last year’s edition: Ade Valenzona’s Polar Coordinates, Rolin Cadallo Obina’s The Late Mr. Real, and Siege Malvar’s Presidential Suite #2.

Apart from performances, VLFXXI includes educational programs such as Staged Readings, the Writing Fellowship Program and Showcase, Theater Talks, and the Playwrights’ Fair.

The staged readings will feature scripts by Jose Victor Torres, M. Manalastas, Dingdong Novenario,

John Lapus’ ‘Taksyapo!’ delves into a connection between two strangers who engage in storytelling within a rage booth in Tarlac

Rafael Jimenez, Juan Ekis, and Jay Fernandez. The Writing Fellowship Program, led by playwright Glenn Sevilla Mas, will culminate in a showcase of new works. International collaborations will also include staged readings of How Romantic: A Guide to Modern Pangcah Life

by Ihot Sinlay Cihek and Prison Dancer from Canada’s National Arts Centre.

Theater Talks will feature discussions with theater practitioners from

Taiwan, Singapore, and Japan, while Playwrights’ Fair will gather veteran playwrights and guest speakers to discuss contemporary theater and storytelling.

Performances are scheduled at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., while educational activities will be held at 5:00 p.m. throughout the festival. Tickets are priced at P800 for regular seats and P1,000 for premium seats and are available through the CCP Box Office and TicketWorld.

Crafting the terno Slim’s, TESDA host butterfly sleeve workshop SLIM’S Fashion & Arts School of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), will hold a workshop focused on creating the butterfly sleeves of the terno, one of the most recognizable elements of

Philippine fashion.

The workshop will highlight the defining feature of the national dress, known for its structured and stiffened upward-curving silhouette.

Originating from the traditional baro’t saya and popularized by Philippine National Artist for Fashion Design

A collection of newly restored Filipiniana dresses by Salvacion Lim Higgins will also be on display at the workshop

Award-winning fashion practitioner and educator Joseph Richard Papa, will facilitate the sessions, will be also showing some of his designs

Ramon Valera in the mid-1900s, the butterfly sleeves remain a hallmark of Filipina pride, grace, and femininity.

The initiative is part of a series of Saturday workshops on couture Filipiniana techniques aimed at providing participants with a deeper appreciation of local cultural dressmaking traditions.

Attendees will learn pattern drafting, cutting, hand-sewing, and finishing methods. By the end of the course, participants will be able to create their own distinct, well-structured, and fully handmade butterfly sleeve without the use of machine stitching.

The workshop is being conducted in partnership with TESDA through Juana Creatives, an inclusive co-working and skill-building hub for women freelancers, hobbyists, cultural practitioners,

and design entrepreneurs. The organization provides enterprise support through industry-led classes across a range of creative disciplines.

Through the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), participants will also have the opportunity to feature and promote their creations and products at various trade fairs.

The sessions will be facilitated by Joseph Richard Papa, an awardwinning fashion practitioner, educator, and TESDA National Lead Expert for Fashion Design NC II and Garment Production NC II. Papa’s collections have appeared on local and international runways, including the Concours International des Jeunes Créateurs de Mode in Paris in 1995. He was a finalist in

Mega Young Designers in 1999 and won both the Grand Winner and Designer’s Choice awards at The Manila Hotel’s Flores de Mayo competition in 1999. He won the top prize in the same competition again in 2007.

The workshop is open to the public and will run on July 4 and 11, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The registration fee is P7,500, with materials included.

Sessions will be held at the Juana Creatives Hub at the TESDA Complex, East Service Road, South Superhighway, Taguig City.

Interested participants may register through https://bit.ly/ButterflySleeve.

For more information, visit the Slim’s Fashion School Facebook page or email admissions.slims@benilde.edu.ph.