By Charles Dantes
OMB files plunder rap vs. Marcoleta, 3 others
By Rex Espiritu, Maricel Cruz and Joel Zurbano
THE Office of the Ombudsman filed a plunder case against Senator Rodante Marcoleta yesterday over P75 million in undeclared campaign funds that the lawmaker admitted he received ahead of the senatorial elections in 2025.
The filing came hours after Marcoleta’s supporters from Iglesia ni Cristo ended their three-day protest opposing the non-bailable case.
In a statement, the Ombudsman said the culture “utang na loob” has “no place in public office” and cannot be used by Marcoleta to justify his decision not to disclose the campaign contributions from his friends.
“We honor ‘utang na loob’ as one of our culture’s most beautiful values. It is a debt of gratitude between
By Ram Superable
By Alena Mae S. Flores
By Ram Superable and Maricel V. Cruz
Katrina Manubay
THE Senate Impeachment Court has formally ordered Vice President Sara Zimmerman Duterte to appear either personally or through legal counsel at the opening of her trial on July 6. In a notice dated July 2 (Thursday), Duterte was directed to appear before the impeachment court on Monday pursuant to Rule 7 of the Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials and in accordance to the writ of summons issued against her on May 19.
"You are hereby notified that trial will commence on the 6th day of July at 2 o'clock in the afternoon, and are further directed to appear on said
date, in person or through counsel, before the Impeachment Court at the Session Hall of the Senate of the Philippines, Pasay City," the notice read. Meanwhile, the Senate finalized preparations for the impeachment trial, as House prosecutors urged Duterte to face the proceedings and defended their case
OMB...
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family, friends, and neighbors. But it has no place in public office. A public servant owes no personal debt to any donor that supersedes what they owe the Filipino people,” the Office of the Ombudsman said.
It added that when gratitude is used to justify the undisclosed P75 million donation, it “becomes exactly what our plunder and bribery laws were written to prevent.”
“What remains is a question of the law: whether these undisputed facts constitute plunder and bribery. We took an oath to enforce the law regardless of who is involved, and that oath does not waver for popularity, position, or personal relationships.”
“Senator Marcoleta retains the presumption of innocence and every right to defend himself before the Sandiganbayan. We did not choose this fight. But when the law leaves no room for silence, silence is not an option,” the Ombudsman said. Also facing charges for plunder,
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Senators gathered for an all-member caucus at the Senate lounge to streamline the impeachment trial, led by Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, Senate President Pro Tempore Vicente Sotto III, and Majority Floor Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri.
Senators Panfilo Lacson, JV Ejercito, Erwin Tulfo, Francis Escudero, and Risa Hontiveros joined the majority contingent, while Senators Robinhood Padilla and Loren Legarda represented the minority bloc.
"All we discussed was the impeachment, we were given documents to follow the sequencing. I can’t say I’m 100 percent ready but I keep on being briefed by my lawyers and keep on reading, there are just so many voluminous documents that it is hard to read everything," Tulfo said.
Gatchalian to preside over impeachment court Gatchalian confirmed he would preside over the impeachment proceedings, dismissing earlier reports that the majority bloc intended to elect Escudero for the role.
"Under our rules, the Senate President will preside. I will preside. Preparation is intense because we are looking at every scenario, we are looking at everything that could possibly happen... requiring long planning and preparation. We expect everyone who is physically able to participate to come in on Monday," he said.
indirect bribery, and violation of the presidential decree prohibiting public officials from receiving gifts are Marcoleta's campaign donors—former congressman Michael Defensor, and businessmen Joseph Varias Espiritu and Aristotle Baluyut Viray.
The Sandiganbayan Third Division, chaired by Associate Justice Karl Miranda, is expected to issue an arrest warrant against Marcoleta following the filing of the non-bailable plunder rap against him.
The Sandiganbayan’s Fourth Division, led by Associate Justice Michael Musngi, will handle Marcoleta and Defensor’s additional charges involving violation of Presidential Decree No. 46, which punishes public officials for receiving gifts, and private persons for giving gifts to public officials.
The same case filed against Espiritu was raffled off to the Sixth Division, chaired by Associate Justice Sarah Fernandez, while the same case against Viray will be handled by the First Division, led by Associate Justice Maria Mendoza-Arcega.
Marcoleta was the representative
Twenty-two senators are expected to serve as senator-judges, excluding suspended Senator Jinggoy Estrada and fugitive Senator Ronald Dela Rosa.
Formal proceedings will begin at 2 p.m. Monday at the Senate Session Hall in Pasay City. Hearings will initially run from Monday to Wednesday until President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivers his fifth State of the Nation Address on July 27. After the address, the trial will shift to a Tuesday-toThursday schedule beginning at 2 p.m.
The proceedings are expected to last seven to eight months as Duterte answers allegations of graft, unexplained wealth, grave threats, bribery, and the alleged misuse of confidential funds.
Separately, the Senate Sergeantat-Arms and the Philippine National Police conducted a security inspection at the Senate building ahead of the impeachment trial.
Leading the inspection were Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Alfred Sotto Corpuz and officials of the PNP’s Police Security and Protection Group (PSPG).
Adiong to VP: Don’t rely on technicalities
Meanwhile, House prosecution spokesperson and Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong urged Duterte to address the allegations before the Senate impeachment court instead of relying on legal technicalities.
If Duterte again questions the legality of the impeachment proceedings before the Supreme Court, Alonto Adiong said it would suggest she is unwilling or unable to respond to the accusations.
The House prosecution panel, he
of the Social Amelioration and Genuine Intervention on Poverty (SAGIP) party-list at the time the donations were made.
"Respondent Marcoleta unjustly enriched himself at the expense and prejudice of the Filipino people and the Republic of the Philippines when he accepted such an excessive sum of money from respondents Defensor, Viray, and Espiritu,” the Ombudsman said.
Marcoleta previously said he prepared to face arrest over the plunder case against him.
"They form part of a deeper and more nefarious design to intimidate independent voices, to punish dissent, and to warn every senator that the price of asking hard questions could lead to personal damnation,” the senator said.
Thousands of members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo sect with ties to the Duterte political dynasty earlier took to the streets to protest the looming charges against the senator.
INC spokesman Edwil Zabala slammed the case against Marcoleta as "selective justice."
said, cannot predict Duterte's next legal move, but maintained that seeking dismissal on technical grounds rather than addressing the charges would send a clear message.
“Kung mayroon pagkakataon na ‘yan ang gagawin nila, isa lang ang magiging message sa taumbayan ‘yan: ayaw nilang sumagot, wala sila maisagot. Kaya tineteknikal nalang nila,” he said in an interview on dzMM on Thursday.
(If there is a chance that they will do that, there will only be one message to the people: they don't want to answer, they have nothing to answer. So they are just being technical.)
“It will send a clear message to the public that they don’t have really any answers to provide to the court, to really belie or to really oppose, or to really you know, defend and counter the arguments,” he added.
Alonto Adiong noted that Duterte has repeatedly assured the public she is prepared to face the impeachment charges before the Senate impeachment court, insisting that it—not the House of Representatives—is the proper venue.
If she ultimately refuses to appear or explain herself despite those assurances, he said, it would be difficult to reconcile with her earlier statements.
“If you are truly innocent, you have nothing to fear. If you are innocent and there are real accusations against you, you would rather have the opportunity to defend yourself because that is the only way to refute all the allegations,” he said in Filipino.
“I think they should welcome this as an opportunity to truly defend the
manage ballooning debt,” Gatchalian said.
Marcoleta is the second Dutertealigned senator to be charged in just over a month, with Jinggoy Estrada jailed over his alleged role in a massive corruption scandal involving bogus flood control projects.
A third Duterte ally, Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, is in hiding after narrowly escaping arrest on an International Criminal Court warrant over his role in the deadly drug war conducted by former president Rodrigo Duterte. Whether their absence will have a bearing on the outcome of the impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte is a matter of debate.
While the Constitution requires a guilty vote by "two-thirds of all the members" of the 24-seat Senate to convict, impeachment prosecutor Rep. Gerville "Jinky" Luistro has argued the threshold should only include senators who take part in the trial.
"If a senator is in jail, in hiding, in hospital or abroad ... how are we going to consider them for the purpose of determining... the required number of votes?" she said in a previous press conference. With AFP
respondent, if they genuinely believe there was no violation of the Constitution as alleged in the articles of impeachment,” he added.
House confident Senate will conduct proceedings fairly
Alonto Adiong said the House complied with every constitutional requirement during the impeachment process, from the filing and endorsement of complaints to committee deliberations, plenary approval, and transmission of the articles of impeachment to the Senate.
“When it was approved, it was transmitted as what the Constitution required for the process to proceed to the Senate to try and decide,” he said.
He also expressed confidence that the Senate impeachment court would conduct the proceedings fairly and impartially.
The 11-member House prosecution panel, supported by volunteer private prosecutors, has spent months preparing its legal strategy, evidence, and witnesses.
“This is the time when the people will know and the people will be able to hear the specific evidence that was not seen and not heard when we were in the House of Representatives conducting confirmation hearings," Alonto Adiong said.
Duterte stands accused of four impeachable offenses involving the alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds, unexplained wealth, bribery, and grave threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Senate... From
“Our national budget for next year should help stimulate economic activities to counteract global and domestic challenges, including the need to
A1 businesses, jobs, investments, and various forms of support for Filipinos.
“I’m so excited to be here and elevate the United States’s alliance with the Philippines to new heights,” he said.
“We are so excited to make a difference, starting with the 80th anniversary of our diplomatic relations with the Philippines.+We have some really big plans to bring American business, jobs, investments, assistance, and so much more to the Filipino people,” he added.
In his keynote speech, Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Leo Herrera- Lim noted that the Philippines and the U. S. are also celebrating 80 years of diplomatic relations and the 75th anniversary of the Mutual Defense Treaty.
He described the alliance as a “cornerstone of both nations' security partnership.”
“These are not just anniversaries. They are a record of a partnership tested and renewed across generations - from the battlefields of the Second World War, to joint operations in disaster response, counterterrorism, and maritime security today,” he said.
Herrera-Lim also emphasized the strong people- to- people connections, mentioning that approximately five million Filipinos and Filipino Americans live in the U. S., while about 375, 375,000 Americans reside
According to DBM data, the multi-trillion-peso allocation is projected to account for 21.7 percent of the country’s gross domestic product.
As the previous chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, the new Senate leader earlier introduced fiscal reforms aimed at tightening
in the Philippines. He stated that these ties remain a vital element of the bilateral relationship.
On June 30, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. received the credentials of the new U.S. envoy in Malacañang.
In October 2025, Trump appointed Lipton, a former businessman, as the new U.S. ambassador to the Philippines, succeeding Marykay Carlson. Lipton previously served as the Interim Permanent Representative to the U. S. Mission at the Organization of American States, managing staff, finances, and interagency coordination to support U. S. foreign policy goals in the Western Hemisphere.
According to his State Department profile, prior to public service, Lipton led a New York City- based apparel company, overseeing design, manufacturing, marketing, and distribution for licensed collections of brands such as Calvin Klein, St. John Knits, and Guess.
Philippine and Chinese foreign affairs officials on Tuesday reaffirmed their commitment to sustained dialogue and the peaceful management of differences during bilateral talks in Manila, as both sides discussed key issues affecting their relations.
In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said that the meeting was built on discussions held during the Philippines-China Foreign Ministry Consultations (FMC) and the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) on the South China Sea in Quanzhou in March.
Diesel,...
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transparency and public accountability.
"Aside from prioritizing programs that will improve the quality of life of our countrymen, such as infrastructure, education, and health, we also need to ensure that next year's national budget will not be abused and will only be used for the welfare of our countrymen," he said.
Gasoline, however, may have a rollback of P1.50 per liter or an increase of P1.50 per liter, Department of Energy Director Rino Abad said.
Abad said kerosene and diesel are also expected to increase by P1 to P3 per liter based on initial estimates.
Meanwhile, in Iran, the body of Iran's supreme leader, killed in US-Israeli strikes that triggered the Middle East war, arrived at Tehran's Grand Mosalla on Friday ahead of his funeral, state media reported.
Millions of people and a coterie of foreign dignitaries were expected to attend Saturday's official ceremony for Ali Khamenei, with Tehran's chief negotiator calling for a massive turnout to avenge his death.
An industry source said that based on the movement of the Mean of Platts Singapore and foreign exchange averages from June 29 to July 2, diesel will increase by P1 to P3 per liter, while gasoline is expected to have a rollback of P1 per liter or an increase of P1 per liter.
“Last week’s attacks on commercial vessels and the military strikes by the U.S. and Iran over the weekend have exposed the fragile normalization of commercial traffic in the Strait of Hormuz,” the source said Friday.
“While crude oil prices have softened because of easing supply concerns and optimism over the U.S.-Iran
PH-Canada... From A1
"These agreements will help us harness the strong people-to-people ties between our two countries, as we jointly build capacities and create a mutually beneficial talent pipeline for the future."
MOUs on tourism, culture, energy, labor
Among the agreements signed was a memorandum of understanding between the Philippine Department of Tourism and Canada's Department of Industry on tourism cooperation to promote sustainable tourism development and exchanges.
The two governments also signed a memorandum of understanding between the Philippines' National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the Department of Canadian Heritage to expand cooperation in cultural exchanges and heritage initiatives.
A Joint Declaration of Intent concerning energy and natural resources cooperation was likewise signed, reflecting both countries' commitment to collaborate on energy security, sustainable resource development, and the transition to cleaner energy sources.
Another Joint Declaration of Intent established closer cooperation between the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers and Canada's Department of Citizenship and Immigration to enhance labor mobility and promote safe, orderly, and mutually beneficial migration pathways.
The labor agreement comes as Canada remains one of the leading destinations for Filipino workers and immigrants.
More than one million people of Filipino descent now live in Canada, making Filipinos one of the country's largest immigrant communities and providing a strong foundation for bilateral relations.
Action plan for strategic partnership
During their bilateral talks, Mr. Marcos and Carney also agreed to deepen cooperation in response to evolving global challenges and directed their foreign ministers to prepare an action plan for the newly established strategic partnership.
The President said the partnership reflects both countries' commitment to maintaining a dynamic and reliable relationship spanning security, trade, energy, labor, culture, and tourism. Defense and security cooperation remain central to the relationship, Mr. Marcos said, citing the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement signed in Manila in November 2025, the Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement, and a Statement of Intent on Strengthening Defense Cooperation signed in Ottawa about two weeks ago.
The two leaders also discussed peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, with Mr. Marcos welcoming Canada's expanded regional engagement under its Indo-Pacific Strategy.
He thanked Canada for supporting the Philippines' maritime security through its Dark Vessel Detection program, which helps combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing while improving maritime domain awareness.
peace talks, diesel and middle distillate prices have strengthened due to signals of tight fundamentals.”
The source said Asian gasoline prices are buoyed by firm demand and limited exports from China, although further upside is capped by signs of healthy supply in the region.
On June 23, oil firms increased pump prices by P1.60 to P1.90 per liter for gasoline, P0.80 to P0.85 per liter for diesel, and P1.20 to P1.22 per liter for kerosene.
The 26th price movement this year resulted in a total net increase of P45.02 per liter for gasoline, P31.56 per liter for diesel, and P28.72 per liter for kerosene.
Photos showed mourners carrying Khamenei's coffin, emblazoned with Iran's tricolor flag, into the Grand Mosalla, one of the Islamic republic's most important ceremonial venues.
Others show crowds at a pre-funeral ceremony clad in black, as the coffin was set down against a backdrop of red flowers and white butterflies hanging in the air.
Ahmad Vahidi, head of the Revolutionary Guards, the ideological arm of the military, made his first appearance since the start of the war in February, paying his respects at the coffin, Iranian media footage showed.
Preparations for Khamenei's public funeral, initially delayed at the height of the war, are taking place as Iran and the United States observe a fragile ceasefire after signing a preliminary deal to halt the conflict.
As the Philippines marks the 10th anniversary of the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling, Marcos also expressed appreciation for Canada's continued support for a rules-based international order under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and for recognizing the arbitral award as final and legally binding.
Bilateral free trade pact in the works On the economic front, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to conclude negotiations for a bilateral free trade agreement before the end of 2026 while continuing discussions on the ASEANCanada Free Trade Agreement.
The Philippine and Canadian governments announced the launch of negotiations for the bilateral free trade agreement as part of the broader strategic partnership.
Mr. Marcos said the Philippines' recent upgrade to upper-middle-income status reflects years of reforms aimed at making the country more attractive to investors.
The World Bank recently reclassified the Philippines as an upper-middle-income economy after its gross national income per capita reached $4,850, exceeding the $4,636 threshold for the category.
Mr. Marcos said his administration has prioritized creating an investment-friendly environment by recognizing the private sector as "a full partner in national development."
"That has led us to the FTA (free trade agreement) now that we are talking about with Canada, and to the other 20-plus FTAs that we have been able to come and sign in the last four years," he said.
NCR police stays on full alert on heels of peaceful INC rally
IN BRIEF
Cop in trouble for sex harassment of minor
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP)
chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Friday, ordered an investigation and filing of appropriate charges against a Taguig City police corporal accused of sexually harassing an eight-year-old girl. Nartatez directed the Southern Police District and the Taguig City Police Station to expedite the probe and submit a report on the incident. He also ordered that the respondent is suspended pending completion of the inquiry.
This is to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, protect children and other vulnerable sectors, and ensure that every police officer who violates the law and public trust is held accountable, Nartatez said,
“This is unacceptable. We condemn any form of misconduct, especially those involving children. We will ensure that the case is investigated thoroughly, impartially, and in accordance with the law,” he added. Vince Lopez
LTFRB to PUV drivers: Ensure passenger safety
THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Friday warned public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers to avoid reckless driving and ensure the safety of their passengers at all times.
LTFRB chief Vigor Mendoza II issued the warning in light of a viral dashcam video showing a passenger was thrown out of the jeepney due to the driver’s recklessness while navigating Cubao, Quezon City on June 23. The agency has already identified the jeepney operator based on the information obtained from the viral video and immediately ordered a 30-day suspension on the unit bearing license plates APA-4905.
“Public utility vehicles are neither built nor approved to operate for car racing. As PUV drivers it is always incumbent upon you to prioritize the safety of your passengers at all times,” Mendoza said. Rio N. Araja
Vice Ganda is keynote speaker of UP graduation
VICE Ganda, deemed as the highestgrossing Filipino comedian, will be the commencement speaker of the UP Diliman College of Media and Communication (UP CMC) on July 5 to be held at the UP Film Center in Quezon City. This will be the first time that Vice Ganda, whose real name is Jose Marie Viceral, was chosen for her maximization of comedy platform and sparking conversations in politics, identity, and inclusivity for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
“She is a genuine spark in media that provides the light and pushes meaningful conversation and change,” the event organizers said in Filipino.
Netizens reacted to the announcement, saying the graduation ceremony might run overtime, as It’s Showtime, the noontime show hosted by Vice Ganda, is
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday said the full alert status remains in the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and Crame-based offices and units, while the rest of the country is now under heightened alert despite the peaceful conclusion of the three-day Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) rally.
Following a continuing assessment of the security situation across the country, the PNP implemented the downgraded alert status in all police regional offices effective July 2, while Metro Manila remains under the highest alert status to ensure adequate security coverage.
the situation while ensuring that appropriate security measures remain in place where they are needed most. Our commitment is to remain responsive, respectful of people’s rights, and focused on public safety,” Nartatez said..
DFA warns vs. use of fake, tampered IDs in applications
By Katrina Manubay
THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday reminded the public to use only valid and officially issued identification documents when applying for consular services, warning that the use of fake or tampered IDs could result in the denial of applications and possible legal action.
In an advisory, the DFA urged applicants to ensure that all submitted documents are accurate and consistent.
“Applicants should ensure that all their documents, including identification documents, contain accurate and truthful information and are consistent with official records, in order to facilitate the proper processing of their applications,” the advisory read. The DFA also cautioned that using, submitting, or presenting fake, altered, forged, or illegally obtained IDs may violate the Revised Penal Code and Republic Act No. 11983 (New Philippine Passport Act).
Violating these laws can result in application denial and the filing of administrative, civil, or criminal charges, the DFA said.
Additionally, the department advised the public to report promptly any lost, stolen, or unauthorized use of their IDs to the proper authorities.
“The cooperation of all applicants is essential in ensuring the integrity of public documents,” the advisory added.
In May, the DFA reminded passport applicants to book only through the official DFA Online Appointment System, warning against unauthorized online pages and individuals falsely offering passport slots.
It also warned the public not to engage with unauthorized entities on social media or other online platforms, including the Facebook page “Philippine Passport Online Assistant,” when scheduling passport appointments.
The INC rally began with an unscheduled protest action near the People Power Monument in Quezon City early Tuesday, causing traffic disruptions along White Plains Avenue and Epifanio delos Santos Avenue during the morning rush hour.
Bill eyes improved Pinoy proficiency in English language
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed all deployed personnel to sustain discipline, impartiality, and service consciousness throughout the activity.
“The adjustment of our alert status reflects our continuing assessment of
The calibrated deployment enables the organization to sustain necessary security measures while allowing police units nationwide to continue delivering regular public safety services, the PNP said.
This prompted the PNP to raise the full alert status over the NCRPO as the rally proceeded.
A total of 3,784 PNP personnel, together with partner agencies, remain strategically deployed in key areas to support security, traffic management, and public safety operations.
By Rio N. Araja
AKBAYAN party-list Rep. Chel Diokno on Friday submitted a counteraffidavit to answer the complaint filed by lawyer Manases Carpio, husband of Vice President Sara Duterte, before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office for violation of the bank secrecy, antimoney laundering, and privacy laws.
“We filed our counter-affidavit in response to the complaint filed by Atty. Carpio against me and other lawmakers. We believe that the case has no basis. We just did our work and duties under the Constitution,” he said.
“We did our duty as a member of the House Committee on Justice. We did not violate any law,” he raised.
Diokno earned the wrath of Carpio for disclosing the bank transaction records of the Vice President and her husband during the House justice panel deliberations on the impeachment complaint against her.
During several congressional hearings, Anti-Money Laundering Council executive director Ronel Buenaventura testified that Duterte and Carpio recorded P6.7 billion worth of covered and suspicious bank transactions from 2006 to 2025.
The couple, in their joint filing of Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth before the Office of the Ombudsman, supposedly failed to declare any cash on hand or in bank from 2019 to 2024.
By Butch Gunio
BATAAN 1st District Rep. Antonio Roman III and Pasig Rep. Roman Romulo have filed House Bill No. 8211, or the National English Proficiency Act, which seeks to improve the English communication skills of Filipinos.
Roman said the measure aims to “better prepare Filipinos for education, employment, professional development, and opportunities in the global workforce.”
He said proficiency in English remains an important advantage in academic and professional settings.
Under the bill, a National English Proficiency Framework and an English Language Development Authority would be established to set standards for English language instruction, align proficiency benchmarks with international standards, strengthen learning outcomes, and link education with workforce requirements.
Roman said the proposed law seeks to benefit students, teachers, graduates, job seekers, workers, and professionals by improving their English language skills and enhancing their readiness for opportunities in the Philippines and abroad.
Recent studies showed severe declines in English related literacy and proficiency, with only 30 percent of Grade 3 learners meeting basic literacy standards and less than 1% of Grade 12 students reaching proficiency.
These figures come from national assessments that include English reading comprehension and language skills.
According to the final report of the Second Congressional Commission on Education, proficiency rates among Filipino learners decline sharply as they advance through the education system, based on data it analyzed.
ROYAL VISITOR. Visiting Malaysian royalty Tengku Dito Putra(2nd fron left) joins Davao Del Norte’ officials led by Gov. Edwin Jubahib and Vice Gov. Clarice
Jubahib in flashing the No. 1 sign during the observance of the province’s 59th year on
Mindanao Development Authority
Secretary Leo Teresa Magn and Rep. De Carlo Oyo Uy. Cherrie Anne E. Villahermosa
AGRI AWARDS. Mayor Noel Lim (4th from left) and other municipal officials pose with their trophies conferred by the Department of Agriculture to the town of Nagtipunan, Quirino as an Outstanding Municipal Local Government Unit during the Gawad Saka 2026 awarding ceremony. Jessica M. Bacud
ALL IN A DAY’S WORK. Unmindful of the inclement weather, a fisherman in Basco, Batanes goes about his daily
PNP: Report child threats to 911
By Vince Lopez
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief Gen.
Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. urged parents to call the 911 emergency hotline or seek assistance from the nearest police station if they observe unusual changes in their children’s behavior.
He said early intervention could help prevent minors from being recruited or influenced by extremist groups. The appeal is part of the PNP’s efforts
DepEd cracks whip on students spreading hoaxes
By Gabriel Oliva
THE Department of Education reminded students, parents, and the public on Friday that making bomb threats, spreading false information, and partaking in disruptive pranks inside school premises are considered “serious” violations.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said safety is a collective responsibility of stakeholders including students, parents, and the public.
“Fake news, dangerous pranks, and bomb threats are never harmless— they disrupt learning and put others at risk,” he said.
According to DepEd Order No. 006, s. 2026, or the Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment (ESMLE), spreading false information and partaking in disruptive pranks inside school premises or during schoolsanctioned activities are classified as a first level, or minor, offense. First-level infractions result in a written reprimand and parent notice while second infractions lead to a written reprimand and parent summons. Should a student commit the same act for the third time, it will result in five days of suspension, with the school providing alternative learning methods.
IN BRIEF
P980-m illicit cigarettes seized in Cebu wharf
THE Bureau of Customs seized an estimated P980 million worth of illicit cigarettes during an enforcement operation at a private wharf in Mandaue City, Cebu.
The operation, led by the Port of Cebu, involved inspecting some twenty-five 20-foot container vans, all of which contained illicit cigarettes.
The BOC said the inspection was conducted under a Letter of Authority and Mission Order issued pursuant to Section 224 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
The operation was carried out in coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.
The agency said the seizure is part of its intensified campaign against the illegal tobacco trade and cigarette smuggling. Vito Barcelo
Temporary shelters built for quake survivors
tor Risa Hontiveros disclosed that the alleged groomer of the minor suspects in the Tacloban gun attack was reportedly linked to a transnational online group that targets children by promoting violence and extremism.
The PNP said it is taking the information seriously as investigators continue looking into possible links between online extremist groups and the recruitment of minors.
Nartatez said the police organization remains committed to stopping the ac-
tivities of extremist groups that target young people through online platforms.
The PNP also reiterated its support for the Department of Education’s guidance counseling program, saying personnel from the Women and Children Protection Desk in every police station are available to help.
The PNP chief has directed concerned police units to strengthen coordination with foreign law enforcement agencies as part of the ongoing investigation into the alleged extremist groups.
THE Joint Task Force (JTF) “Agila” of the Philippine Army has begun constructing temporary shelters for families displaced by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Mindanao as part of the government’s ongoing rehabilitation efforts.
The construction started on July 1 under the “Bangon Glan: A Partnership to Rehabilitate the Damaged Shelters of the Victims of the 7.8 Magnitude Earthquake” project in Poblacion, Glan, Sarangani.
A total of 11 construction teams composed of personnel from the 512th Engineer Construction Battalion, 504th Combat Engineer Battalion, and Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit Active Auxiliaries (CAAs) under the 73rd Infantry Battalion were deployed to carry out the project.
The teams are currently undertaking excavation, reinforcement bar fabrication, formwork installation, and concrete works during the initial phase of construction. Rex Espiritu
Finland eyes more Filipino workers—DOLE
THE Finnish government is looking to hire more Filipino workers as it expands cooperation with the Philippines on skills development, ethical recruitment, and worker protection, according to the Department of Labor and Employment.
During a courtesy call on July 2, Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino and Finnish Ambassador to the Philippines Saija Nurminen discussed possible cooperation in skills training, ethical recruitment, and emerging industries where Filipino workers are in demand.
The two sides explored opportunities in renewable energy, maritime technology, artificial intelligence, and other industries expected to generate employment in the coming years.
Vito Barcelo
DILG seeks 1-year extension for Calabarzon police chief
By Vince Lopez
INTERIOR Secretary Jonvic Remulla has recommended a one-year extension of the service of Calabarzon police chief Brig. Gen. Hansel Marantan beyond his mandatory retirement.
In a letter dated Friday and addressed to National Police Commission Vice
DSWD enhances minors’
By Maricel V. Cruz
THE Department of Social Welfare and Development will introduce additional enhancements to its Minors Traveling Abroad (MTA) system to speed up travel clearance processing while maintaining safeguards against child trafficking, exploitation, and other forms of abuse.
Assistant Secretary Ada Colico of the DSWD’s Protective Programs said the agency is developing new features for the system, including an express lane for urgent applications and a group application option.
“We will have an express lane for those who urgently need a travel permit within the same day or within 24 hours. At present, we already have group applications, but the system is not yet ready for that feature. We are developing it for Phase 2,
Chairperson and Executive Officer
Rafael Vicente Calinisan, Remulla requested that Marantan’s tenure be extended for another year.
Remulla said Marantan’s continued service is needed because of his experience and ongoing operations under his leadership.
“There is great merit in his service.
travel processing
which will allow schools and sports organizations to submit applications as a group,” Colico said during a news forum.
The DSWD has also established MTA help desks at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminals 1 and 3, Clark International Airport, Mactan-Cebu International Airport, and Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao to assist travelers accompanying minors.
Colico said the help desks provide guidance on travel clearance applications and assist passengers whose travel has been delayed due to incomplete requirements.
“At the help desks, you will be assisted with the application process. If your requirements are complete, we can help you there. For offloaded minor passengers, if they have all the necessary requirements, we can assist them at the help desk and facilitate the process more quickly,” she said in Filipino.
We still need his specialized skill set for one more year,” the Interior chief said. He added the extension would “ensure continuity in the execution of critical and ongoing high-impact operations.”
Marantan expressed gratitude for the recommendation but acknowledged
proval by the proper authorities.
“I am deeply honored and grateful for the trust and confidence reflected in the recommendation for a one-year extension of my service. I sincerely thank the leadership of the DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government) and the Philippine National Police for their confidence,” he said.
OPINION
Green gold or grieving groves?
IF YOU were in the Philippine countryside during the monsoon or in summer, you are certain to look up to bamboos which are abundant in this Southeast Asian archipelago of 7,641 islands, once dubbed as the Pearl of the Orient Seas..
And if you were flying in during daytime from a trip abroad , there is no doubt you would have a glimpse of the verdant bamboo groves below – thanks to a clear porthole which gives you a “bird’s-eye view” of the landscape below.
The Philippines has roughly 39,000 to 53,000 hectares of bamboo stands, but sadly lacks a cohesive supply chain, and continues to rely on imported traditional building materials, according to some bambusologists.
There is the barrier of entry and commercialization, bamboo is being treated as a high-value crop which is hindered by limited technology for shoot production, high cost of processing machinery, and inaccessible financing.
Then there are structural and safety challenges: the absence of bamboo in modern urban skylines due to issues with formal construction standards, pest susceptibility (instance, bokbok/powderpost beetles), and the lack of industrial pest-treatment facilities.
Other imperative issues include:
• Renewability vs. Timber: A typical structural bamboo species like Kawayan tinik or Giant bamboo matures in just 3 to 5 years, whereas traditional timber takes decades to harvest.
• Climate Change Mitigation: Bamboo is a vital ally in climate action, sequestering over 5 metric tons of CO₂ per hectare annually and its extensive root system naturally prevents soil erosion and enhances water retention.
• The Supply Chain Bottleneck: The country has an estimated 39,000 to 53,000 hectares of bamboo stands, but the industry remains fragmented because most harvesting happens in natural groves where quality is inconsistent.
• Strength and Engineering: Structural innovations by groups like the Base Bahay Foundation have proven bamboo can be treated and engineered for typhoon-resistant housing.
• Variability Challenges: Research shows the mechanical properties—such as culm wall thickness and strength—of native species like Kawayan tinik and Bolo vary greatly by location (instance, the University of the Philippines studies in Bukidnon,) creating a massive need for strict construction standards.
To replace carbon-heavy building materials like imported steel and concrete, Bukidnon is leading a shift toward highyield, durable bamboo, according to experts.
One case study has shown that Bukidnon serves as an anchor for bamboo research and production, largely driven by institutions like the Hineleban Foundation and the Base-Bahay Foundation.
Local researchers have tested species like Bambusa blumeana and giant bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper) for structural integrity. These giant bamboo species are processed via “Cement Bamboo Frame Technology” to build affordable, disasterresilient social housing.
Policymakers face a ticking clock to elevate bamboo from a backyard commodity into an industrial, climate-resilient solution
Studies by the DOST-FPRDI confirm that engineered bamboo panels are highly durable, reducing project carbon emissions by over 70 percent while stimulating rural farming livelihoods and acting as a vital weapon against rural poverty.
Iloilo, on the other grove, provides a stellar example of how the government is actively tackling urban poverty through nature-based solutions.
Spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Project TRANSFORM (Transdisciplinary Approach for Resilience and Environmental Sustainability through Multi-stakeholder Engagement) partners with local government units to create science-based blueprints for ecosystem restoration.
Through programs like “Handog ng Pangulo: Luntiang Bukas” and the multiawarded Iloilo River Esplanade, the city has transformed once-polluted riverbanks into dense mangrove ecosystems and linear parks.
Complementary housing initiatives by the DHSUD and Pag-IBIG Fund have relocated informal settlers to climate-ready “Green Resilient Homes,” coupling land ownership with urban greening.
Indeed, the Philippines sits on a paradoxical goldmine: bamboo is a widely abundant, native resource, yet its economic potential is stifled by a highly fragmented supply chain and inconsistent harvesting practices.
Policymakers face a ticking clock to elevate bamboo from a backyard commodity into an industrial, climate-resilient solution.
Unnoticed no more
By Armenio Manuel
GREAT news on the newly discovered beetle species, named to honor an organization with unparalleled service to the public.
This is the view of Filipino scientists who discovered two new species of beetles in the Philippines: one of them named after the Angat Buhay program.
The scientific names of the two beetles are Anacaena angatbuhay and Anacaena auxilium.
They were discovered and described by Enrico Gerard Sanchez (BS Biology 22), thesis adviser Emmanuel Delocado, and co-adviser Hendrik Freitag from the Ateneo Biodiversity Research Laboratory of the Department of Biology.
Their findings were part of Sanchez’s undergraduate thesis he had successfully accomplished amid the then raging COVID-19 pandemic, which has infected millions and killed scores of thousands since it stormed into the country in mid March of 2020.
In a Facebook post, Delocado explained the reason behind Anacaena angatbuhay’s name. “We are naming the new species after the Angat Buhay program in honor of its valuable and unparalleled service especially in the time of pandemic,” he said.
What exactly is a scavenger beetle?
Hydrophilidae, also known colloquially as water scavenger beetles, according to the Encyclopedia Britannica, is a family of chiefly aquatic beetles.
Aquatic hydrophilids are notable for their long maxillary palps, which are longer than their antennae.
Several of the former subfamilies of Hydrophilidae have recently been removed and elevated to family rank; Eimetopidae, Georissidae (= Georyssinae), Helophoridae, Hydrochidae, and Spercheidae (= Sphaeridiinae).
There are some hydrophilid beetles that make their homes in fresh animal waste, decaying vegetation, or humusrich soil
With rare exceptions, the larvae are predatory while the adults may be herbivores or predators in addition to scavenging. Many species are able to produce sounds. Species of Hydrophilus are reported as pests in fish hatcheries. Other species are voracious consumers of mosquito larvae, and have potential as biological control agents.
This beetle family contains 2,835 species in 169 genera, accordingf to Encyclopedia Britannica.
Experts say the water scavenger beetles, any of the approximately 3,200 species of the predominately aquatic insect superfamily Hydrophiloidea (order Coleoptera), are found swimming in marshy freshwater ponds throughout the world, especially in warm regions.
Monsoon mask
DESPITE daily urban rains, Angat Dam –the primary source of 90 percent of Metro Manila’s water – is hovering at its 160-meter critical threshold.
This paradox highlights how erratic, climate-changed weather fails to replenish watersheds, meaning cities must shift from relying on single dams to localized water management and strict, year-round conservation.
The rains in Metro Manila and nearby areas during the afternoon are typically caused by localized thunderstorms, which occur when intense heat evaporates moisture, causing clouds to build up and trigger heavy afternoon or evening downpours.
But poor urban planning is not entirely blameless as the root cause of disaster vulnerability in the unforgiving face of climate change, where once more calls for local government accountability in spatial design, zoning and infrastructure urgently matter.
While politicians are quick to blame climate change for submerged cities and unbearable urban heat, nature is only writing half the script. The true rogue behind our compounding urban crises is decades of compounding, myopic urban planning.
When torrential rains flood our thoroughfares, we point to increasingly extreme weather. But the real malefactor is the widespread paving
of natural catchments, the failure to maintain or expand adequate drainage systems, and the relentless approval of high-density developments in known floodplains and hazard zones. We are not merely victims of a changing climate; we are victims of concrete-obsessed development.
Pouring more concrete into floodways or relying on reactionary, band-aid flood-control projects only exacerbates the very problems we are trying to solve.
If we are to survive the decades ahead, our cities must be redesigned to work with nature
Correspondingly, the suffocating heat islands plaguing our metropolitan centers are not unavoidable consequences of global warming. They are the direct result of poor spatial planning.
The systemic removal of green spaces, the prioritization of private vehicular traffic over public and active transport networks, and the lack
of strict architectural regulations regarding urban ventilation and material use turn our cities into heat traps.
By treating every environmental disaster as an inevitable act of nature, we absolve our local leaders and urban planners of their basic responsibilities.
Climate change acts as a threat multiplier, but our poor urban design is what opens the door. It is what leaves marginalized communities completely defenseless when the worst strikes.
We cannot engineer our way out of the climate crisis if our foundation remains broken. True resilience will not come from merely acknowledging global climate targets. It will come from a radical paradigm shift in how we manage our cities. Local government units and national agencies need to move away from reactive policies.
Like other keen observers of the rains and reactions during the monsoon, we endorse the thought that we must implement comprehensive land-use plans that strictly enforce zoning regulations, mandate the integration of green infrastructure, and prioritize community-inclusive, sustainable spatial development. If we are to survive the decades ahead, our cities must be redesigned to work with nature rather than violently against it. It is time to stop hiding behind climate change and start fixing our cities.
Afghans come home but risk exclusion without any ID
TORKHAM, Afghanistan – Lugging suitcases across the border after packing up in Pakistan, Afghans are returning home with their worldly possessions but often lack one key item to restart their lives: an identity card.
On the Afghan side of the Torkham border crossing, children and adults wheeled their luggage or carried belongings atop their heads, as they moved from desk to desk to log their arrival.
“I don’t know how and where to get the ID card; now I’ll go and check,” said 17-yearold Abdulrehman Sudais, standing beside a crate of chickens he had carried across the border for his mother.
The Pakistan-born teenager had been to Afghanistan just once before, but his cousin had already told him he would need ID to access work or education.
Out of 6.1 million Afghan returnees who have arrived from Pakistan and Iran since September 2023, more than 86 percent are listed as undocumented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
At the crossing point, which still bears the shrapnel marks of this year’s war between the neighboring countries, officials and aid workers were taking down everyone’s details.
While border officials contact authorities nationwide to verify the identity of those who don’t have any form of ID, the process for newly arrived Afghans can be bewildering.
Sardar Khan, 41, was sitting in a large tent at Omari camp near the crossing, where people get a return certificate and are fingerprinted.
“We are blind; we don’t know what to do,” he told AFP, as his son fell asleep at his side.
“We’ve never been to Afghanistan before; we’ll get to know the importance of ID cards,” he said.
As well as a requirement for getting a job or school place, an ID card is essential for
Water scavenger beetles have smooth, oval, dark brown or black bodies and short, hairy, clubbed antennae. They range in length from several to about 4 cm (up to 1.6 inches). The water scavenger beetle swims by moving the middle and the hind legs on each side together.
Most adults (e.g., Hydrophilus and Tropisternus) feed on algae or decaying matter; a few species, however, are predators.
The female deposits about 100 eggs in a silklike, waterproof egg case, which she either attaches to underwater vegetation, floats on the water surface, or hangs on herself.
The carnivorous larvae feed not only on insects that fall into the water but also on their own kind. Many larvae must come to the water surface for air, although a few (e.g., Berosus) breathe through the body wall and abdominal filaments.
A majority of the beetles in the family
Afghans trying to prove they own land or a home, claiming inheritance, accessing state benefits, and travelling through the myriad of checkpoints across the country.
Outside the tent, as the temperature hit 40C, people waiting to be processed huddled in the limited shade available.
Ziad Salih, regional coordinator at IOM, described the ID card as “one of the essential pieces of the puzzle” for Afghans.
In June, the United Nations launched an initiative that aims to help Afghans get 1.5 million identity documents over the next three years
“Many returnees are arriving without a valid ID document and this is placing them at risk of administrative and social exclusion,” he told AFP at the agency’s Torkham transit centre.
Afghanistan’s Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation Affairs did not respond to AFP’s request to comment on the documentation issue.
Difficult decisions’ Near the Torkham crossing, colourful trucks were piled high with families’ furniture and other possessions from Pakistan.
Once Afghans reach their destination -often the places their relatives fled years ago -- organisations have helplines and projects to support them with their paperwork. Murat Khan Safi, an octogenarian who returned a few months ago, found rooms to
Hydrophilidae live in aquatic environments in both their larval and adult life stages. Some hydrophilid beetles will lay their eggs in ephemeral ponds and puddles where the larvae will live as they develop. Other beetles such as Derralus angustus and Tropisternus setiger live in permanent ponds. Some beetles like Tropisternus lateralis will only live in aquatic environments that lack fisah because fish prey on their eggs, while others like D. angustus prefer aquatic habitats with a specific species of floating fern. Generally, hydrophilids live in marshy, shallow, and heavily weeded aquatic environments. There are some hydrophilid beetles that make their homes in fresh animal waste, decaying vegetation, or humus-rich soil. They survive in a very wide variety of locations and because of that some types are more adapted to specific environments than
rent on the outskirts of Jalalabad, the closest city to the border crossing.
“We were given a number at Torkham, then we contacted WADAN, and we made the ID cards,” he told AFP, referring to the Welfare Association for the Development of Afghanistan that works with the UN refugee agency (UNHCR).
Surrounded by sons and grandsons under a clattering ceiling fan, Safi showed the tattered identity document he has kept since fleeing the Soviet occupation more than four decades ago.
Processing the new ID cards only took a couple of days, he said, but paying a fee of 500 Afghanis ($7.80) for each relative was hard.
“I made some difficult decisions... I had to sell household belongings,” said Safi, his white beard matching the colour of his clothes.
The family has been reimbursed for the ID card fees by the Welfare Association, and is due to receive additional support. In June, the United Nations launched an initiative that aims to help Afghans get 1.5 million identity documents over the next three years.
Arafat Jamal, UNHCR’s representative for Afghanistan, described the lack of documentation as an “almost invisible” phenomenon.
“The absence of documentation is a serious impediment to continuing your lives,” he told AFP in the capital Kabul. The UN appeal comes as global aid cuts hit hard in Afghanistan, with those crossing the border entering a country where jobs are scarce and support has been shrinking. At Omari camp, Nazamin Baloch didn’t know how to get an ID card but knew from other Afghans that it was “important for everything”.
“This is the first time I am coming to Afghanistan,” said Baloch, in her sixties.
“No one in the family has an ID card... We have not even seen our country before.” AFP
others and will often only move to habitats of the same type. The aquatic hydrophilids are less diverse than the terrestrial hydrophilids.
The Filipino authors brought into proximity the beetle’s “humble” habitat in Ifugao in the Cordillera north of Manila with the Filipino volunteers who work with far-flung communities behind the scenes.
“Moreover, as the species has been thriving unnoticed in a humble mountain creek in Ifugao for at least the last few centuries, dedicating a species name to the Angat Buhay program is a nod to the countless Filipinos silently and persistently working alongside far-flung communities despite the lack of due recognition,” Delocado said.
(The writer, who does freelance writing, previously taught in both undergraduate and graduate courses in different universities. He ghostwrites and crafts orations for necrological services as well as theses and dissertations for graduate students.)
Honor Blanco Cabie
Heat dome roasts eastern US
NEW YORK – Pools were packed and power grids strained as millions of Americans sweltered in stifling heat and humidity Thursday, with dangerous temperatures expected to hit major cities through the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
The heat wave that has been broiling the Midwest began intensifying in the Northeast, with temperatures surpassing 100F (38C) in cities including New York, Philadelphia and Washington.
The National Weather Service said the New York city area saw several decadesold records for July 2 break, notably at LaGuardia airport and New Jersey’s Newark, which both hit 104F (40C).
In Washington, Thursday’s high of 102F broke the record of 101F set on the
same day in 1898. The heat index -- which measures how hot it feels based on temperature and humidity combined -- was even more merciless. The NWS warned the index could peak as high as 115F (46C) in the midAtlantic region. The intense heat was of particular concern given the many planned outdoor events to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary,
Authorities urged people to stay indoors especially in the hottest parts of the afternoon, to check on their neighbors, drink more water than usual, and to find air conditioning if they don’t have access at home.
Many dog-walking New Yorkers were out early before temperatures grew unbearable and hot asphalt posed risks to their pets.
But plenty of people including delivery drivers and construction workers had little choice but to be out.
New York designated hundreds of public buildings as cooling centers, extended public swimming pool hours, dispatched volunteers to check on vulnerable residents, and opened cooling stations with misting fans and wet towels.
Luis Rivera, who works in his family’s
restaurant in lower Manhattan, took a quick dip at a packed public pool before work.
“It’s hot, man,” he told AFP. “If you don’t need to come outside, stay home.”
Trey Parker, 27, traded his apartment in a highrise for a few hours at the pool as well, his two primary-aged children in tow.
Yesterday the AC got overwhelmed and stopped working adequately, he told AFP.
“So we had to come outside, get some air, get some Icees, get some water on our body,” he said.
Those hoping for some coastal respite over the three-day weekend could face disappointment: city authorities warned “multiple shark sightings” would mean intermittent closures at one of the city’s most popular beaches. AFP
“Heat
Death toll from massive strikes on Kyiv ups to 30
KYIV – Ukraine said on Friday that the death toll from a massive barrage on its capital had risen to at least 30 people, as both Kyiv and Moscow vowed fresh assaults.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said his forces would “definitely” retaliate for the Wednesday to Thursday overnight pummelling, as he inspected an apartment block that was partially destroyed.
The European Union’s top diplomat proposed new sanctions on Moscow, as Zelenskyy pressed the United States for licences to manufacture Patriot air-defence missiles.
UN chief Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned Russia’s barrage and repeated a ceasefire call.
“Attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure wherever they occur are a clear violation of international humanitarian law and must stop immediately,” said his spokesman Stephane Dujarric.
But the Kremlin vowed to further ramp up “pressure” on Kyiv, sticking to its no-compromise rhetoric.
Russia has routinely launched waves of missiles and drones during its invasion, Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II. AFP journalists in central and eastern Kyiv heard more than a dozen explosions and saw residents rushing to shelter in metro stations.
In the morning, locals stood on the rubble of destroyed apartment blocks ripped apart by the barrage, as smoke poured over the Kyiv skyline.
Bomb blast at Damascus cafe kills 9 — authorities
DAMASCUS – A bomb blast rocked a cafe in Syria’s capital Damascus on Thursday, killing nine people and wounding 20, authorities said, in the latest challenge for the country’s Islamist leaders as they seek stability after more than a decade of war.
The bombing -- the deadliest since a suicide attack on a church last year -- was not immediately claimed.
It took place near the capital’s Palace of Justice, a key government building, sparking scenes of panic in the busy area.
An AFP correspondent saw ambu-
lances weaving through traffic with their sirens blaring as they headed to the site, and security forces cordoned off the area of the blast.
“The explosion that occurred in a cafe near the Palace of Justice in Damascus resulted from an explosive device planted in the location,” state television said.
The “improvised explosive device” contained metal fragments, which caused “severe injuries and significant damage”, the interior ministry wrote on Telegram.
Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage, speaking to witnesses and
collecting forensic evidence from the scene, the ministry said.
Nour Khayyat, 40, who owns a shop selling batteries for solar panels near the site, told AFP that “at about 3:00 pm (1200 GMT), I heard a powerful blast and the storefront shook”.
“People rushed to the cafe and called ambulances,” he added.
Mohammed al-Dahabi, the owner of a glasses shop next to the cafe, was trembling as he described the explosion, telling AFP: “I felt strong pressure, and the whole place shook”. AFP
MULTI-CITY COMMEMORATIONS. The Grand Mosalla is pictured in Tehran on July 3, 2026, ahead of Iran’s slain supreme leader Ali Khamenei’s funeral. Preparations for the funeral of Khamenei were in full swing on July 3, with authorities expecting millions and a coterie of foreign dignitaries to attend the official ceremony. China, Afghanistan and Iran’s neighbors in the Caucasus region said they would also be sending representatives. AFP
for last signs of life
in quake zone of Venezuela’s quiet rubble
Catholic order faces financial ruin in Australia over abuse claims
SYDNEY – A Catholic order in Australia has halted a wave of abuse compensation cases because it is running out of money, leaving some victims feeling like their “suffering is being extended”.
The Christian Brothers order, which ran more than 100 schools across Australia at the height of its influence, said it had paid out more than Aus$480 million (US$300 million) to abuse victims since 1980. It successfully applied in the Supreme Court of New South Wales to temporarily pause a spate of upcoming cases on Thursday, arguing that further payouts would lead to financial ruin.
Instead, the order has proposed to sell off property and assets to pay for settlements negotiated out-of-court.
“We accept that we have now reached a pivotal moment facing a very difficult financial position, and consequently the proposed scheme is the most responsible course of action,” the Oceania Province of the Christian Brothers said in a statement posted online.
“The Province has been responding to those who have experienced abuse in our facilities for more than four decades.
“Over the past ten years the number of claims and quantum of settlements has accelerated.”
Victims with outstanding claims against the Christian Brothers order will be asked to vote on whether to accept the scheme.
A law firm representing many victims said the maneuver had cast uncertainty over efforts to seek justice.
“Many survivors have told us it feels as though their suffering is being extended and old wounds are being reopened,” said lawyer Stephanie Brown from Slater and Gordon. AFP
Death toll hits 10 in procession crash
BANGKOK – The number of monks killed has risen to 10 after an 11-year-old boy drove a pickup truck into a Buddhist procession in Thailand, officials said Friday. Ten other people were still hospitalized after Thursday’s crash -- two in critical condition and eight with injuries -- according to the latest update from Mukdahan Hospital, in the northeast of the country.
A group of 35 monks and five lay followers were walking along a roadside in Mukdahan province during a pilgrimage when a truck ploughed into them.
Police said it was driven by an 11-yearold who had taken his parents’ vehicle without permission. Five monks died at the scene, and another five died later in hospital.
Prayut Ruanthongkam, chief of Mukdahan City Police, told AFP on Friday the boy was unable to give a statement to police.
Carney secures deal for oil pipeline
MONTREAL – Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney secured an investment agreement with British Columbia on Thursday to build a major oil pipeline, overcoming initial opposition from the westernmost province.
The future pipeline is expected to carry one million barrels of oil a day -- from the oil-rich province of Alberta, across the entirety of British Columbia, to the country’s west coast -- allowing Canada new access to Asian markets and reducing its economic dependence on the United States.
At a press conference with Carney on Thursday, Danielle Smith, the premier of the conservative-leaning province of Alberta, announced the formal submission of the project to federal authorities, more than seven months after signing a memorandum of understanding. AFP
Man sets himself ablaze at UN, dies
UNITED NATIONS, New York – A man set himself on fire outside the New York headquarters of the United Nations on Thursday and died of his injuries, the city’s police department said. US media and a pro-Tibet activist said the individual was a pro-Tibet campaigner, though investigators did not confirm this claim.
The New York Police Department told AFP that “at 1832 NYPD received a call...a male set himself on fire at First Avenue and 42nd Street. He was pronounced dead at Bellevue Hospital. Investigations ongoing.” No motive was given. Tencho Gyatso, President of the International Campaign for Tibet, named the deceased man as Lobga Rangzen.
“Lobga was a tireless advocate for Tibet who devoted himself to peacefully raising awareness of the human rights crisis in Tibet,” Gyatso said in a statement to AFP. Gyatso said Rangzen had railed against China’s new “Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress” that Beijing said aims to forge a “shared” national identity among ethnic groups. AFP
said.
2, 2026. Blistering temperatures and humidity gripped swaths of the United States on July 1, with the worst yet to come for the densely populated East Coast as the nation co-hosts the World Cup and prepares to celebrate
Portugal’s forward Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal from the penalty spot during the 2026 World Cup round of 32 football match between Portugal and Croatia at the Toronto Stadium in Toronto. AFP
Ronaldo, Portugal advance after VAR drama to set up Spain duel
LOS ANGELES—Portugal battled into the last 16 of the World Cup with a drama-filled 2-1 victory over Croatia on Thursday to set up a titanic showdown with European champions Spain.
In another nerve-shredding World Cup classic, Goncalo Ramos headed Portugal into the lead in the fourth minute of stoppage time before Croatia saw a last-gasp equaliser agonisingly ruled out for offside in Toronto.
Portugal’s 41-year-old superstar captain Cristiano Ronaldo had helped haul his team back into the contest, burying a 68th-minute penalty to cancel out Croatia’s 53rd-minute opener from Ivan Perisic.
Ronaldo later joined frenzied celebrations after Ramos glanced home a sensational header deep into injury time to give Portugal the lead.
But Ronaldo and his Portugal teammates were left stunned when Josko
Gvardiol prodded home an apparent equaliser in stoppage time.
Yet VAR chalked off the goal after a chip embedded in the match ball detected that it had just brushed Croatia striker Igor Matanovic while Mario Pasalic was in an offside decision in the build-up.
After the final whistle, an emotional Ronaldo held up and pulled on a Portugal shirt bearing the number 21, a tribute to late team-mate Diogo Jota, the Liverpool star who tragically died in a car crash almost a year to the day from Thursday’s win, on July 3 last year.
“We knew it before the game. It was a so special moment. We speak today, our group, about that, the coincidence
of life, it’s unbelievable,” Ronaldo said
afterwards of the tribute to Jota.
“I was amazed because the situation of today. It means a lot to us, not only because we won the game, but the also the way we won the game. It was a difficult game, we knew it.”
The result ensures that Ronaldo’s incredible World Cup career will be extended for at least one more match when the Portuguese face Iberian rivals Spain in the last 16 in Dallas on Monday.
Ronaldo’s second-half penalty made him the oldest man to score in a World Cup knockout match. The goal was also first time Ronaldo had scored in a World Cup game in his glittering career.
Spain romps past Austria
Spain had advanced to that meeting with a scintillating 3-0 win over Austria in Los Angeles earlier Friday that confirmed their status as one of the
favourites for the title.
Two goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and a Pedro Porro header sealed victory for the Spaniards, who produced their most complete performance of the tournament to advance to the next round.
Spain opened their World Cup campaign with a faltering 0-0 draw against Cape Verde, but have subsequently built momentum with each match.
With Spanish movie stars Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem in the 70,492 crowd at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium, Spain were always in control against a limited Austrian side who failed to register a shot on goal.
Oyarzabal fired Spain into the lead in the 36th minute, sweeping in a low finish to crown a slick passing move, and more deft inter-play set up Porro to head home the second in the 66th minute. AFP
China sports brands score NBA stars to assist global ambitions
CHENGDU—NBA star Kyrie Irving walked out onto a basketball court in southwest China to rapturous applause, his brightly coloured Chinese-made sneakers a vivid statement of domestic sportswear brands’ increasing global reach.
Firms like ANTA, the organisers of Irving’s Chengdu fan meet last week, have upped their international profile in recent years, building upon their success at home to make headway overseas.
Signing celebrity athletes from popular sports like basketball has become a key strand of that expansion strategy, boosting credibility abroad while appealing to the many NBA fans in the domestic market.
The athletes “help us tremendously because they help us to create global awareness, also global reach”, Global Basketball General Manager for ANTA, Rocky Fan, told AFP in Chengdu.
“It’s now time to take our brand global,” he said. “We believe (basketball) is a very important, very unique sport that we could... leverage to
US basketball player Kyrie Irving speaks in a media interview before an event with fans during his world tour with the Chinese brand ANTA titled ‘The Return’ in Chengdu, in China’s southwestern Sichuan province. AFP
reach our global consumers.”
NBA endorsements “are the single most effective bridge Chinese sportswear brands have into Western consumer consciousness”, said Rufio Zhu from sports marketing agency IMG.
ANTA are not alone in embracing this strategy. In June, Beijing-based brand Li-Ning signed basketball superstar Steph Curry. That agreement “moves the needle significantly, because (Curry’s) really
Go’s brilliant start sparks runaway ICTSI Pinewoods romp
BAGUIO—Lloyd Go completed a commanding wire-to-wire victory at the ICTSI Pinewoods Challenge, turning the final 18 holes into little more than a victory lap after effectively putting the tournament out of reach before Friday’s closing round.
Yet even with the title all but secured, Go refused to coast to the finish.
Holding a commanding 10-shot lead heading to the daunting par-4 No. 18, he attacked the closing hole of the Pinewoods Golf Club with the same resolve that had defined his week, rolling in a birdie that served as the perfect exclamation point to a masterclass in dominance. As if scripted, his three closest pursuers all stumbled with bogeys on the same hole, stretching his winning margin to a staggering 12 strokes.
Ironically, Go signed for his highest round of the week – a 71 – but it hardly mattered. His closing birdie, one he never actually needed, underscored the confidence, composure and relentless mindset that powered one of the most dominant performances on this season’s Philippine Golf Tour, as he finished a dozen shots clear of Jeffren Lumbo.
Go admitted the thought of winning crossed his mind, but he knew nothing was guaranteed at Pinewoods.
“I did think about winning, but there’s never such a thing as a sure win. This course is very challenging – you can lose your ball on every hole,” said Go, who finished with a 16-under 272 worth P441,500. Lumbo, meanwhile, remained Go’s pursuer from the opening round to the finish, although he never
seriously threatened the leader. A closing 71, marred by a last-hole miscue, left him at 284, another encouraging performance for the rising talent who scored his maiden PGT win in dramatic fashion via a five-hole playoff against Russell Bautista at South Pacific last year.
Fidel Concepcion hit five birdies in the last seven holes, including a stirring four-birdie feat from No. 12 to fire a 69 and snatch third place at 288, while Tony Lascuña carded a 70 and tied Rupert Zaragosa and Clyde Mondilla, who bogeyed the last for 71 and 72, respectively, at 289.
Dino Villanueva shot the day’s best 68 to claim seventh place at 291.
Remarkably, Go won it on one of the country’s toughest championship courses without playing a single practice round.
David vs. Goliath: Cape Verde fights Argentina, Messi at ‘26 World Cup
LOS ANGELES±A
classic David versus Goliath encounter will take centre stage at the World Cup on Friday as tiny Cape Verde face Lionel Messi and Argentina with a place in the last 16 at stake.
Cape Verde, the smallest nation ever to reach the knockout rounds, face the defending champions in Miami dreaming of pulling off what would be the greatest upset in World Cup history. The Atlantic archipelago have become one of the fairytale stories of this year’s expanded 48-team tournament, confounding expectations by earning a draw with Spain before squeezing into the last 32 ahead of Group H rivals Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. Argentina, who breezed into the knockout rounds with the help of six goals from captain Messi, will be expected to swat aside the African qualifiers to move one step closer to their dream of back-toback World Cup titles.
But Cape Verde insist they will not be overawed by the occasion and the prospect of sharing a field with the reigning world champions and eighttime Ballon D’Or winner Messi.
“We are calm because we earned our place here on merit and there is nothing to fear or worry too much about,” Cape Verde coach Bubista said.
“We know the importance of the match ahead. It is the match of our lives, but we are going to enjoy it and give our best. There is no other thought in our minds than trying to advance past this round.”
Netherlands-born Cape Verde midfielder Deroy Duarte was similarly nonplussed, saying the minnows would relish the chance to make history. AFP
top tier”, said Mark Dreyer, author of “Sporting Superpower”, a book about China’s ambitions in the sector.
‘All around the world’
For a Western consumer base that might still view Chinese brands as offering value over quality, top-tier endorsement can be crucial.
Signing big-name athletes lends “attention, credibility and relevance”, Elisa Harca from marketing agency Red Ant Asia told AFP.
Curry’s choice of Li-Ning over more established brands like Nike and Adidas “signals the product delivers at the highest level”, IMG’s Zhu said.
Popular athletes can also “help brands bridge cultural gaps, introduce products to new audiences and create a level of familiarity that would otherwise take years to build”, said Adrian Staiti from agency CAA Sports.
Both ANTA and Li-Ning have offered involved partnerships to their stars to better foster that connection.
Irving, for example, is ANTA’s chief creative officer of basketball. AFP
THE
met some resistance from the Meycauayan Marilao Gems before prevailing,
while bunching 8 points to extend their hot streak to 10 and climb to 12-2 in the round-robin elimination phase of the twodivision, 27-team tournament. Batangas trails Gensan (13-2) and paces Binan (12-3) and Cebu
Batangas City Tanduay Athletics
Reggz Gabat of Zamboanga
Lloyd Go Manny Marcelo
SATURDAY,
Garcia tops PH quali ers for Chess Olympiad
By Randy M. Caluag
INTERNATIONAL Master Jan Emmanuel Garcia secured the top qualifying spot for the Philippine men’s team bound for the 2026 FIDE World Chess Olympiad in Uzbekistan after winning the Philippine National Chess Championship – Battle for the Grandmasters.
Garcia topped the selection tournament ahead of Grandmaster Darwin Laylo and International Master Michael Concio Jr., who finished second and third, respectively, to earn the first three places on
Historic run continues as Eala faces reigning champ Swiatek
By Jeremiah Sevilla
SThe world No. 32 Eala lock horns with the No. 3 and reigning Wimbledon champion Swiatek for the third time, with their Round of 32 match expected to be scheduled at night in the Philippines.
Eala pulled off a 6-2, 7-5 shocker over Swiatek in the Miami Open quarterfinals last year to surge from No. 140 to 75, making her the first Filipina to break into the WTA top 100.
The Polish star then leveled the head-to-head with a 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 win in the Madrid Open second round over a month later.
Eala arranged her third blockbuster showdown with the six-time Grand Slam winner after hacking out a 3-6, 6-2, 6-0 comeback against Australia’s
Maya Joint to emerge as the first Filipino netter to enter the third round of a major in the Open Era.
The 21-year-old Eala is bracing for another daunting task against the 25-year-old Swiatek in their budding rivalry that’s set to take place for the first time in a Grand Slam and on a grass court.
“I think it’s going to be tough for me. I’m going to try to make it tough for her, as well. It’s a different surface than we’ve played at before, so I think definitely there should be some different aspects to the last time,” Eala said.
“She’s won a Slam on grass. She’s won a Slam on clay. She’s won a Slam on hard, so I’m expecting a great challenge,” she added.
Gonzales, Lajada,
By Nathaniel dela Cruz
GENERAL NAKAR, Quezon— Randolph Gonzales topped the premier 70-kilometer category of the Quezon Trailblaze after clocking six hours, 58 minutes and 33 seconds in the trail running event held in General Nakar, Quezon.
Jordan Bugnay finished second, while Kert Aurellana placed third in the longest race of the competition.
Charmaine Madrid emerged as the first female finisher in the 70km category with a time of 9:25:46, placing 10th overall.
In the 42km race, Dennies Lajada captured the title after crossing the finish line in 3:54:48. Lloyd Magundayao settled for second place, while Kurt Rovivrus Iserio completed the podium in third.
Clarisse Francesca Yeung was the first female finisher in the 42km division, recording
Swiatek is wary of Eala’s fine form on grass, with the Pinay lefty holding an impressive 11-3 record in the current swing, including a 6-1, 6-2 rout of Mexico’s Renata Zarazua in the Wimbledon first round.
“I don’t particularly know her game on grass. Obviously, I can watch a little bit. I know how she plays because we played already,” Swiatek said.
“She has a tricky game. I can assume that on grass it’s even more tricky because of the surface. For sure, she’s using her strengths, the change of rhythm and everything. It will be a good challenge for me because she doesn’t give that rhythm,” she added.
The right-handed Pole started her title defense with a 6-1, 2-6, 6-3 win against American Taylor Townsend before sweeping Czech Karolina Pliskova, 6-1, 6-3, to barge into the third round.
Meanwhile, Eala and her Czech partner Nikola Bartunkova absorbed a first-round exit in the Wimbledon doubles after yielding to the eighthseeded pair of Austrian Jelena Ostapenko and American Sofia Kenin early Friday.
GILAS Pilipinas put up a brave fight but eventually fell short against host New Zealand, 102-106, in a double-overtime thriller in the third window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers on Friday at the Spark Arena in Auckland.
The Nationals lost steam in the closing stretch as the Tall Blacks banked on their airtight defense to complete their home stand.
The Philippines was not able to avenge its 66-69 defeat at home to New Zealand in the previous window last February at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Coach Tim Cone’s squad also suffered its third straight loss after two opening wins against Guam in Group A.
Juan Gomez de Liaño buried a triple with 11.9 seconds remaining in regulation to send the game to overtime, then made another booming trey to give Gilas a 93-91 lead with 8.3 ticks left in the extra period.
Shea Ili converted two free throws off a foul by Dwight Ramos, 93-93, to force another extension period.
The Filipinos were actually ahead, 10096, as Justin Brownlee hit a three at the 2:02 mark of the second OT.
However, the Kiwis scored six points in a row, 102-100, with Reuben Te Rangi and Carlin Davison hitting their free throws and Sam Mennenga scoring on a short stab. Kevin Quiambao sank a floater to knot the game at 102-all, but a Mennenga putback pushed the home squad ahead, 104102, 14.3 seconds left.
Davison intercepted an inbound pass by Gomez de Liaño before Jordan Ngatai drew an unsportsmanlike foul from Brownlee. Ngatai and Ili each made a freebie to deal the heartbreaker to Gilas.
Gomez de Liaño and Quiambao paced Gilas with 23 points apiece while Dwight Ramos and Carl Tamayo chipped in 18 and 17 markers, respectively.
Brownlee was held by New Zealand’s suffocating defense to just five points on two-of-three field goal shooting.
Jeremiah Sevilla
Reyes dominate Quezon Trailblaze
4:32:55 to place sixth overall. Norman Reyes ruled the 21km event with a winning time of 1:38:32.
Mark Angelo Luzano finished second, followed by Gavin Vallester in third.
Kim Illustrisimo paced the women’s field in the 21km race after posting 2:15:40, good for 12th overall.
Reyes also doubled up in the 5km category, winning the race in 19:05. Reinel Romaraog placed second, while Magundayao added another podium finish by taking third.
The Quezon Trailblaze was organized by Outdoor Statement and Pinoy Trails, bringing runners to the rugged trails of General Nakar as part of a two-day immersion celebrating the “REINA” spirit—Real, Infanta and Nakar—and showcasing the area’s natural landscapes.
The event was held in coordination with the Local
British Embassy in Manila lauds PH tennis star
By Katrina Manubay
piece of the Philippines” to the historic grass courts.
“Did you know? For over 20 years, Slazenger tennis balls used at Wimbledon have been proudly made in Mariveles, Bataan—bringing a piece of the Philippines, alongside Alex Eala, onto the very grass courts where champions rise,” it added. On Thursday night (Philippine time), the 21-year-old athlete secured a notable victory, defeating Australia’s Maya Joint 3-6, 6-2, 6-0 to advance to the third round of
A 21-km runner navigates the beach section in Brgy. Catablingan, General Nakar, Quezon. Kenneth Charles Feria
The world No. 32 Alexandra Eala lock horns with the No. 3 and reigning Wimbledon champion Iga Swiatek for the third time in their careers. AFP
Jan Emmanuel Garcia (2nd from left) with chess legend GM Eugene Torre (3rd from left) and NCFP officials NCFP
Government Unit of General Nakar, headed by Mayor Alfredo Pujeda, together with the Sangguniang Bayan and the Municipal Tourism Office.
Juan Gomez de Liaño FIBA
P413 billion
US investments in ecozones
249 firms
US companies in ecozones
12.4%
Share of US in ecozone investments
PAL to add US, Canada flights in Q4
By Darwin G. Amojelar
PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) said Friday it will expand its North American network beginning late 2026, adding nonstop flights to Vancouver, Toronto and New York as part of a broader push to strengthen connectivity between the Philippines, Canada the United States and Southeast Asia.
The airline will increase Manila-Vancouver flights to 10 times weekly from 7 starting Nov. 17, it said. PAL will raise Manila–Toronto flights to 4 times weekly from 3 starting Dec. 5 and boost Manila–New York (JFK) flights to 4 times weekly from 3 starting Dec. 2, with a fifth weekly flight added during the peak December 2026–January 2027 holiday season.
The expansion cements PAL’s leadership in the Philippines–North America market and reinforces its position as the Southeast Asian carrier operating the most nonstop flights between the two regions, the airline said.
“North America continues to be one of Philippine Airlines’ most important markets,” PAL president Richard Nuttall said.
“As travel demand grows, these additional flights strengthen our position as the preferred nonstop carrier between the Philippines and North America whilst providing our customers with greater choice, improved connectivity and more opportunities to travel, do business and reconnect with family and loved ones. As the Philippine flag carrier, we remain committed to supporting tourism, trade and economic ties between the Philippines and our key North American markets,” he said.
The added frequencies will improve connectivity via Manila to key Southeast Asian destinations, including Jakarta, Bali, Phnom Penh, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Hanoi, PAL said. Partnerships with American Airlines, Alaska Airlines and WestJet will let customers connect onward to numerous destinations across the United States and Canada.
US firms pour over P400b into PH economic zones
By Othel V. Campos
AMERICAN companies have invested more than P413 billion in projects registered with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), cementing the United States’ position as one of the country’s largest and longest-standing investment partners.
PEZA director-general Tereso Panga announced the figure at the 80th anniversary celebration of Philippines-US diplomatic relations, organized by the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines. Panga said 249 US enterprises accounted for 12.4 percent of total investments approved by the agency.
The cumulative investments have
generated more than 382,000 jobs, boosted exports and supported the country’s push toward upper-middleincome status, Panga said.
Major US companies operating in economic zones include Texas Instruments, Google, ON Semiconductor Philippines, JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Collins Aerospace and Coherent.
“These global companies not only invest in the Philippines but also continue to expand their operations because of PEZA’s investor-centric, responsive and efficient brand of service,” Panga said.
He said the Philippines and the US can further deepen investment cooperation through initiatives such as Pax Silica, the planned technology hub in New Clark City, and the Luzon Economic Corridor. These projects are expected to attract high-value investments in artificial intelligence, electronics manufacturing services, semiconductor manufacturing services, digital infrastructure, research and development and green ore processing, Panga said.
THE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) fined the Boracay Business Administration of Scuba Shops (BBASS) and 39 of its member-dive shops a combined P2.17 million for price fixing on Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan.
The PCC said in a statement it ruled that BBASS and its members violated Section 14(a)(1) of the Philippine Competition Act and ordered them to cease and desist from enforcing a multi-year price-fixing agreement that harmed local tourism.
The commission found that BBASS, a non-stock domestic corporation established to regulate and protect the local diving industry, acted as the central facilitator of the scheme. The association and its mem-
bers used the 2016 BBASS rules and regulations along with formal pricing agreements enacted in 2018 and 2019 to eliminate competition among themselves.
The pricing mechanisms set minimum floor prices on popular services, including P3,000 for discover scuba diving and up to P25,000 for open water diver courses.
The group also banned shops from offering customer freebies such as extra dives, masks, T-shirts, meals or photographs, and capped commissions for tour guides, hotels and booking agents at 10 percent. Member-dive shops faced fines or business closure for violating the agreements.
BBASS and its members said that
Foreign chambers laud higher PH income status
THE Philippines’ attainment of uppermiddle-income status will strengthen the country’s investment appeal, the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) and the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) said. The World Bank’s recognition sends a strong signal to global investors at a time when multinational companies are reconfiguring supply chains, expanding regional operations and seeking new growth markets across the Indo-Pacific, AmCham said.
Many American companies continue to view the Philippines as one of Southeast Asia’s most attractive investment destinations, AmCham said,
citing the country’s young and skilled workforce, strong English proficiency, expanding consumer market and long-standing economic ties with the United States.
These strengths position the Philippines to attract greater investments in advanced manufacturing, digital services, infrastructure, healthcare and other high-value industries, AmCham said.
The upgrade demonstrates the country’s sustained economic growth, resilience and reform efforts, the ECCP said, adding that it comes at a pivotal time as the Philippines and the European Union continue negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Othel V. Campos
the fixed rates protected consumer safety, stabilized local livelihoods and operated with the knowledge of the local government unit.
The PCC rejected these defenses, ruling that price fixing is an outright violation of the law that cannot be justified by economic efficiency or industry protection.
The PCC said trade associations may promote safety standards but cannot act as vehicles for pricefixing agreements. It added that local ordinances requiring association endorsement to operate do not give private groups legal authority to dictate market prices, and that later tariff ordinances cannot retroactively excuse past illegal conduct.
Othel V. Campos
By Alena Mae S. Flores
THE Department of Energy (DOE) is pushing for amendments to the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act of 1998 to strengthen accountability for oil companies amid growing energy security concerns.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the nearly three-decade-old law needs updating to keep pace with changes in the energy sector.
“Our Oil Deregulation Law is almost 30 years old. Since then, the energy sector has changed significantly and the challenges have increased. That is why it is time for us to update the law,” Garin said.
Garin said the goal is to build a government that is better prepared, secure a more stable fuel supply and provide better protection for every Filipino.
The DOE has submitted the proposed amendments to the Senate Committee on Energy, Garin said.
“We look forward to working together with the legislative body to advance these much-needed reforms and strengthen our country’s energy security,” she said. The proposed amendments would allow the government to take temporary measures during an energy crisis to stabilize fuel supply and prices and coordinate responses with agencies and stakeholders.
“The local market extended its rise as investors continue with their bargain hunting, with sentiment supported by recent positive developments,” Philstocks Financial Inc. said. Those positive developments include a decline in global oil prices, which is expected to ease the country’s inflation outlook, and a World Bank upgrade of the Philippines’ economic status.
Holding firms posted the strongest gain among the major sectoral indices, climbing 2.27 percent, followed by mining and oil, which surged 4.38 percent. The property index rose 1.29 percent, while financials added 1.22 percent. The services index also edged up 0.32 percent. Industrial was the lone decliner, slipping 0.05 percent.
Trading was thin, with net value turnover at P3.94 billion. Foreigners were net buyers, with net inflows at P139.32 million. Conglomerate Ayala Corp. was the top index gainer, surging 6.84 percent to P480.80. Emperador Inc., on the other hand, was the main index laggard, falling 2.04 percent to P15.38.
The peso also strengthened against the U.S. dollar Friday, closing at 61.415 compared with 61.565 pesos on Thursday.
Asian stocks rose Friday as tech firms enjoyed a much-needed rebound from the heavy selling of recent weeks, with a big miss on US jobs creation soothing worries over a Federal Reserve interest rate hike.
Regional markets have been in traders’ firing line for some time as the prospect of higher borrowing costs -- fueled by a fresh inflation spike -- and concerns about extended valuations have sparked questions about how far the AI equity boom has to run.
That has seen chip firms such as South Korea’s SK hynix and Japan’s Kioxia plunge from record highs, along with benchmark indexes in Seoul and Tokyo.
But the selling paused on Friday as investors welcomed data showing the US economy added less than half the jobs than forecast in June, while figures for the previous two months were also revised down.
The readings suggested the labour market was not as strong as previously thought, and gives the Fed some breathing room to hold off an expected rate hike for now. Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP
By Jenniffer B. Austria
CONGLOMERATE Ayala Corp. has earmarked P5 billion to acquire additional shares in listed property unit Ayala Land Inc. under its expanded buyback program for the conglomerate and its listed subsidiaries.
In a disclosure Friday, Ayala said the P5 billion allocation includes P2 billion from its approved capital expenditure budget for investments.
The purchase forms part of the company’s expanded share buyback program of up to P20 billion, which was approved by its board of directors in September 2025.
To date, the conglomerate has already utilized P599.5 million of the P5 billion allocation to purchase additional Ayala Land shares.
Ayala started buying back Ayala Land shares last month after the property unit’s share price hit a 52-week low of P12.58 on
concerns about the impact of rising interest and inflation rates on overall businesses.
On June 17, Ayala reported that it purchased 35 million Ayala Land common shares at an average price of P13.07 per share for a total of P457 million. The following week, it purchased another 10 million Ayala Land shares at P14.14 for a total of P141 million.
Analysts said the transaction is a vote of confidence in Ayala Land, one of the country’s largest property developers, amid current market developments.
Shares of Ayala Land ended the week at P15.44 pesos, up 2.66 percent from previous day’s close.
LISTED property developer A Brown Co. Inc. (ABCI) has raised P4 billion from its maiden fixed-rate bond offering, exceeding its initial P3 billion offer due to strong demand from institutional and retail investors.
The company listed the bonds on the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. (PDEx) on Friday as part of its P12 billion shelf registration program.
The issuance consists of three-year Series A bonds due 2029 carrying a fixed annual coupon of 7.4428 percent, and five-year Se-
ries B bonds due 2031 with a coupon rate of 7.9583 percent.
ABCI president Paul Francis Juat said the proceeds will fund the company’s real estate projects and renewable energy investments.
“This P4 billion issuance marks our first entry into the Philippine bond market and comes as A Brown celebrates 60 years of building communities across Mindanao and, now, Luzon,” Juat said. “Proceeds will support both our real estate pipeline and our renewable energy portfolio — the two pillars of A Brown’s next chapter.”
The company also plans to use the net proceeds to redeem its Series A preferred shares and for general corporate purposes.
The bonds received an investment-grade issue credit rating of PRS A Plus with a stable outlook from Philippine Rating Services Corp. (PhilRatings), indicating a strong capacity to meet financial obligations.
PNB Capital and Investment Corp. served as the sole issue manager for the transaction, while PNB Capital and Land Bank of the Philippines acted as joint lead underwriters and joint bookrunners.
ABCI, which is listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange, is primarily engaged in real estate development, with projects concentrated in Mindanao and a growing presence in the renewable energy sector through its subsidiary, ABC Energy Inc.
MEGAWIDE Construction Corp. has raised about P4.5 billion after selling its remaining 9 percent stake in renewable energy firm Citicore Renewable Energy Corp. (CREC), with proceeds earmarked for debt reduction and business expansion. Megawide said Friday it completed the monetization of its stake on June 26 through several tranches involving the sale of 1.004 billion CREC shares.
Edgar Saavedra, Megawide chairman and chief executive, said the transaction was part of the company’s strategy to unlock the value of its investment in CREC while bringing in a strategic partner for the renewable energy firm.
“The transaction is consistent with our intent to value-realize our stake in CREC, at the same time welcoming a suitable and strong partner for CREC,” Saavedra said.
He added that the proceeds will fund Megawide’s precast expansion and accelerate its deleveraging program to strengthen the balance sheet and improve liquidity.
Megawide has been implementing a debt reduction program aimed at improving its financial position. The company has already trimmed P6 billion worth of debt, reducing its short-term borrowings to P12 billion as of the end of March 2026.
Megawide expects its shortterm debt to decline further to around P10 billion by the end of June, which it estimates will generate annual interest savings of about P250 million to P300 million. Saavedra said lowering short-term debt will improve liquidity while reducing financing costs.
Early this week, the state-run Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) reported that it increased its stake in CREC to 7.48 percent after acquiring additional common shares from Megawide.
GSIS purchased 287,452,327 CREC common shares from Megawide on June 25 at an undisclosed price. The transaction brought the state pension fund’s total CREC holdings to 834,327,371 shares.
Jenniffer B. Austria
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
Jenniffer B. Austria
AIRFIELD TRAINING. Team members from Aboitiz InfraCapital Laguindingan Airport Corp. participate in specialized airfield ground lighting training conducted by the Airfield Training Company, an ICAO-accredited training provider based in the United Kingdom. The ICAO-aligned program helps ensure the reliability of critical runway and airfield lighting systems that support safe airport operations around the clock.
RESILIENT POWER FACILITIES. Alsons Power’s 237-megawatt
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
By Darwin G. Amojelar
PLDT Inc. has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with DITO Telecommunity Corp. to share network infrastructure to expand coverage and improve connectivity for customers nationwide.
The agreement, which also includes PLDT’s wireless unit Smart Communications Inc., sets up a framework for the companies to share resources across three areas of telecommunications infrastructure without any exchange of money between the parties.
Under the deal, PLDT, Smart and DITO will grant each other reciprocal access to eligible tower sites. The companies will also share inbuilding solutions in commercial buildings and other indoor locations, and optimize the use of submarine cable capacity through Indefeasible Right of Use arrangements that support international connectivity.
PLDT chairman and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan said the agreement shows telecom companies can work together despite competing in the market.
“Connecting the country is a responsibility that we all share as Philippine telcos. This agreement reflects that, even as we compete in the marketplace, we can collaborate where it matters the most: accelerating digital inclusion, helping connect every Filipino, and creating greater opportunities for our people and our nation,” Pangilinan said.
DITO Telecommunity president and chief executive Eric Alberto said the partnership would let both companies improve services for their customers.
“May this partnership usher and blossom into many more things so that we can have meaningful results for our companies, and more importantly, for the betterment of services for all our respective customers,” Alberto said.
By sharing existing infrastructure instead of building separate facilities in the same locations, the companies said they aim to reduce duplication of network investments.
Two MB members reappointed
By Thony Rose Lesaca
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has reappointed two members of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ Monetary Board (MB) to full six-year terms until July 2032, the BSP said Friday.
The reappointed officials are Walter Wassmer, first named to the board in July 2024, and Jose Querubin, who joined in September 2024.
BSP Governor and Monetary Board
chairman Eli Remolona Jr. said the two members “have made invaluable contributions to the Board’s deliberations and decision-making” since
joining the board.
“Their expertise in financial markets, commercial banking and risk management complements the Board’s strength in economics, public service and business,” Remolona said.
Before his first appointment to the board, BDO Unibank Inc. former
senior executive vice president and head of institutional banking Wassmer retired from the bank in 2022.
He later joined BDO’s board and its executive committee, trust committee, risk management committee and related party transactions committee.
Earlier in his career, Wassmer held posts at Far East Bank & Trust Co., UnionBank of the Philippines, Bancom Finance Corp. and IFC Leasing and Acceptance Corp.
Querubin, United Coconut Planters Bank former president and chief executive, led the bank from 2003 to 2007. He also served as a board member of ASEAN Finance Corp., now
AFC Merchant Bank, and held senior positions at Bank of America, Solid Bank Corp. and Citibank. Querubin later served as president and chief executive of Megalink and as secretary of the Bankers Association of the Philippines. The Monetary Board exercises the powers and functions of the BSP, such as the conduct of monetary policy and supervision of the financial system. It is composed of seven members led by the BSP Governor as chairman. Other members of MB are Finance Secretary Frederick Go, former BSP Governor Benjmain Diokno, Romeo Bernardo and Rosalia De Leon.
Bangko Sentral eyes risk-based supervisory model for consumer protection
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is proposing a risk-based supervisory framework for financial consumer protection that will align oversight with a supervised institution’s consumer impact and risk profile.
The draft Financial Consumer Protection Risk-and-Impact Supervisory Model (FCPRISM) sets out a structured, risk-based approach to financial consumer protection oversight of BSP-supervised institutions (BSIs). Once approved, it will serve as the basis for all financial consumer protection supervisory
IN BRIEF
77 percent recognized the Philippines’ continued dependence on imported oil, coal and natural gas. About 66 percent identified expanding renewable energy as the most effective approach to address the crisis, with making rooftop solar affordable emerging as the public’s highest priority among renewable energy measures. The survey suggests the challenge is no longer convincing Filipinos of the benefits of rooftop solar. Affordability has instead emerged as the biggest hurdle to wider adoption. Filipinos believe lower costs, better access to information and affordable financing are needed to make the technology accessible to more consumers, even as public support for rooftop solar remains high. About 93 percent of respondents said rising electricity demand makes affordable rooftop solar increasingly necessary, and a majority said widespread adoption would become viable if affordable financing options were made available. Alena Mae S. Flores
Mactan-Cebu
Airport joins regional safety panel
MACTAN-CEBU
(MCIA)
the ECCP said, adding that it comes at a pivotal time as the Philippines and the European Union continue negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The ECCP noted the country’s strong utilization of the EU’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), which has provided Philippine exporters, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with preferential access to the European market. The country’s transition to upper-middle-income status further strengthens the case for concluding an ambitious, balanced and commercially meaningful EU-Philippines FTA, the ECCP said. Othel V. Campos
Most Filipinos support affordable rooftop solar
NEARLY all Filipinos agree that the government should make rooftop solar more affordable, a nationwide Pulse Asia survey showed, signaling strong public support for policies that could expand access to renewable energy while lowering electricity costs and strengthening the country’s energy security. The survey revealed widespread concern over the country’s energy crisis. Nearly all respondents, or 97 percent, said they are concerned about current energy challenges, while
(ROSC) of
in
and
(ACI).
MCIA alongside
and
initiatives, sharing operational insights and shaping strategies to strengthen aviation safety and resilience. MCIA said the membership reflects its efforts to maintain world-class operations while supporting the Philippines’ growing role as a regional aviation and tourism hub.
The committee also gives airline partners a platform for closer collaboration with MCIA on emerging operational challenges and safety priorities, while allowing the airport to benchmark its practices against some of the region’s most advanced gateways, according to the airport. For travelers, MCIA said, participation in the ROSC supports its push for a safer, more efficient and seamless airport experience, built on internationally recognized standards and continuous improvement.
MCIA is one of the Philippines’ leading international gateways and continues to invest in initiatives aimed at improving operational reliability, strengthening passenger confidence and supporting the long-term growth of air connectivity in the region.
assessments starting January 1, 2027.
The draft circular is open for public feedback until July 10, 2026.
FCPRISM introduces three main elements: a consumer impact assessment, a consumer protection (CP) risk evaluation and profiling process and a level of CP supervisory engagement.
Under the consumer impact assessment, the BSP will evaluate a BSI’s potential impact based on the possible scale, reach and severity of consumer harm that may arise from material misconduct, operational failures or persistent weakness in CP practices. The BSP will assess
consumer impact by level, ranging from low, moderate, above average to high.
For CP risk evaluation and profiling, the BSP will assess an institution’s net risk profile based on retail consumer activities that reflect its business model and operating context.
“These encompass the endto-end processes for the design, pricing, offering, distribution, servicing, support and protection of consumers of retail financial products and services, across delivery channels, operational processes and support functions, including digital platforms and relevant third-party
and government
for two days of
and collaboration during National ICT Month’s Digital
Preliminary results recorded 108 hired-on-the-spot applicants, while more than 300 others advanced to further interviews. This reflects strong demand for talent across customer service, software engineering, marketing, accounting, human resources, and other support functions.
arrangements,” the BSP said. The BSP will determine the degree of potential risks embedded within a BSI through its structural complexity and consumers’ profile. The central bank will evaluate these dimensions to arrive at a single inherent CP risk rating on a four-point scale of low, moderate, above average and high.
The BSP will also rate the quality of CP risk management on a fourpoint scale of strong, acceptable, inadequate and weak, based on the five standards of conduct prescribed under the Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act. Thony Rose Lesaca
BAD loans held by Philippine banks climbed to a nine-month high in May 2026 as the lingering effects of elevated interest rates, higher business costs and softer demand weighed on borrowers, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data showed.
The gross non-performing loan (NPL) ratio rose to 3.44 percent in May from 3.37 percent in April, according to the BSP. Gross NPLs increased to P601.41 billion from P579.89 billion in April and P527.45 billion a year earlier.
The NPL coverage ratio — the buffer banks hold against potential loan losses — also dropped to 88.92 percent in May, the lowest level in four years since the 88.38 percent recorded in March 2022.
Reyes Tacandong & Co. senior adviser Jonathan Ravelas said the increase in the gross NPL ratio suggests some pockets of borrower stress are beginning to surface amid the impact of previously high interest rates, elevated business costs and softer demand conditions.
The decline in the coverage ratio indicates NPLs are growing faster than banks are setting aside provisions for potential losses, he said.
“This divergence may reflect banks’ view that asset quality risks remain manageable and that the current increase in bad loans is still within expected levels. That said, it is something that deserves close monitoring,” Ravelas said. Thony Rose Lesaca
By Jenniffer B. Austria
RIZAL Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) said Friday it will waive InstaPay fees for person-to-person fund transfers made through its digital banking platforms starting July 4, becoming the second bank to eliminate the charge after Bank of the Philippine Islands did so on July 1.
RCBC Pulz app users may send money to other banks, digital wallets and financial institutions via InstaPay without transfer fees for up to 30 transactions per month, provided each transfer is at least P100, the bank said in a statement.
Transfers beyond the monthly limit or below P100 will carry the standard P10 fee.
All person-to-person InstaPay transfers made through the bank’s DiskarTech mobile app will remain free, with no minimum transaction amount or cap on the number of monthly transfers, it said.
BPI permanently waived all transfer fees for InstaPay and PESONet transactions to other banks and e-wallets starting July 1.
RCBC president and chief executive Reginaldo Anthony Cariaso said the waiver is meant to make digital banking more practical and affordable for consumers.
“Offering free InstaPay transfers through both RCBC Pulz and DiskarTech reflect our commitment to delivering practical solutions that create everyday value for our customers while advancing the country’s digital transformation,” Cariaso said.
MICROGRID FINANCING. Land Bank of the Philippines president and chief executive Lynette Ortiz (fourth from right) and WEnergy Global chief executive Atem Ramsundersingh (fourth from left), together with partners, Archipelago Renewables Corp. president Quintin Jose Pastrana (third from left), Maharlika Clean Power Holdings Corp. yreasurer Jose Antonio Gozun (second from left), LandBank executive vice-president Charlotte Conde (third from right) and FVP Ann Marijell Ong (second from right), sign an P800-million financing agreement to deploy hybrid renewable energy-powered microgrids in underserved communities in Palawan. With them as witnesses are Ambassador of the Netherlands Marielle Geraedts (left) and Department of Energy (DOE) Undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevara (right).
DIGITAL JOBS. The pilot run of the Trabahong Digital Job Fair 2026 concludes in Iloilo City, bringing together jobseekers, employers
partners
recruitment, learning sessions
Workforce Week.
Shopping in Gemini app launched
WE all love finding the perfect gift, but shopping can often become a chore. Endless scrolling, guessing, and jumping between tabs can feel like hard work.
Google’s latest advancements in AI can help! The company is introducing a major AI shopping update in the Gemini app to help with all your shoppingrelated needs — whether that’s finding the best birthday gift, comparing running shoes and brainstorming the ‘aesthetic’ fitcheck, or discovering the right piece of luggage for your next trip!
Describe what you’re looking for just as you’d say it to a friend, and get a thorough response — with accurate shopping data you can trust.
Simplify your shopping with Gemini
You can also now use shopping features right in the Gemini app, helping you go from brainstorming to browsing right within your chat. You can find shoppable product listings, comparison tables, prices from across the web, and places to buy. When you ask Gemini a shopping question, you’ll get an intelligently organized response that brings together rich visuals and all the details you need (like price, reviews, and inventory information), helping you quickly and confidently decide what to buy. Responses are tailored to your specific question and formatted for your needs.
For example, if you’re looking for visual inspiration, like “birthday gift ideas for my dad who is into the NBA. My budget is P2000,” you’ll see shoppable images in a helpful carousel. Or, if you’re deciding between a few options — like the right bag or piece of luggage for a weekend away — you’ll see a comparison table with a side-by-side view of considerations specific to that product (such as case dimensions and weight) to help you quickly understand the nuances.
And because these new shopping features in Gemini are powered by the Shopping Graph (which includes more than 60 billion product listings, two billion of which are updated every hour), you can see fresh information and unmatched selection you can trust.
By bringing Gemini models and Google’s Shopping Graph together, you can shop with confidence, save time and money, and have fun along the way! Try it now!
AS communities across the Philippines become more dependent on
and essential services, Globe continues to strengthen the foundations that help keep people connected while
a more resilient and sustainable future. Through its 2025 Integrated Report, Globe highlights how investments in network modernization, climate action, operational efficiency, and innovation are helping create long-term value not only for the business, but for the communities it serves.
Entitled “Foundations for the Future: Building Resilience Through a Connected Nation,” the report demonstrates how Globe is embedding sustainability into its long-term strategy as it expands coverage, improves affordability, and strengthens operational resilience amid evolving climate and business risks. The report also reflects Globe’s continued efforts to align with emerging global sustainability disclosure standards while advancing meaningful environmental and social impact.
Fear, anger brew inside Meta amid AI madness
SAN FRANCISCO—A frenzied push for artificial intelligence dominance comes with a different kind of cost for Meta, where massive layoffs, employee surveillance and departures have fueled reports of a heated internal climate.
As Meta spends billions annually to build out its AI capabilities, employees at Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp are increasingly unhappy with their Mark Zuckerberg-led parent company. Meta employees have weathered frequent layoffs since early 2025, including this spring when the company cut 10 percent of its workforce -- some 8,000 jobs -- and reshuffled another 7,000 employees. For those who remain, an internal AI training initiative has drawn accusations of surveillance.
The company also underwent a major reorganization of its AI research division, into which Zuckerberg, Meta’s founder and chief executive, has poured billions of dollars.
The malaise stands in stark contrast to Meta’s robust finances -- driven by advertising, which makes up nearly 98 percent of its revenue. In the first three months of 2026, Meta’s net income rose to more than $26 billion.
However, the bill for its AI investments is also exploding, prompting Zuckerberg, who has near-absolute
power over the company, to impose sweeping cuts and increased monitoring of employees in the name of efficiency and savings. The cuts are funding a massive race for infrastructure: Meta plans to spend up to $145 billion on AI investments this year, nearly twice last year’s figure.
Harvesting data
After thousands of employees were reassigned to Meta’s AI division, some, speaking anonymously to US media, have complained of “mind-numbing” tasks designed to train machines, or even automate away their own jobs.
That controversial program, called the Model Capability Initiative, was rolled out in April and suspended on June 22. It captured clicks, keystrokes and browsing activity of US employees to train AI agents -- software capable of independently performing tasks.
Samsung for Education supports PH’s push toward inclusive, secure, future-ready learning
THE Philippines is making significant strides in expanding digital access across its education system, with government programs driving ICT adoption in schools nationwide. As this momentum grows, there is a clear opportunity to deepen impact by equipping teachers with the right tools, training, and support to bring technology into everyday learning.
Samsung Electronics Philippines is launching the Samsung for Education Program, an integrated ecosystem of education-ready devices, teacher development, and school recognition, designed to support schools at every stage of their digital journey.
“At Samsung, we believe that technology should empower people. In education, this means creating an ecosystem where teachers feel supported, schools are digitally ready, and students are engaged to learn with confidence. Our vision is to help schools in our region prepare for the future, ensuring every learner feels empowered and every teacher feels supported,”
Samsung’s Education Programme equips Filipino schools with devices, teacher training, and digital tools to support classroom excellence said Carl Nordenberg, Vice President and Regional Head of Mobile eXperience Business, Samsung Electronics Southeast Asia and Oceania.
An Integrated Ecosystem for Schools
Samsung for Education brings
Zuckerberg, who has made AI the company’s North Star, defended the program during an internal meeting:
“AI models learn by watching really smart people do things,” he said, according to Wired.
But the tool sparked a revolt. More than 1,600 employees signed a petition calling for it to end, with some likening the company to a “data extraction factory,” according to media reports.
The pause came after private conversations and performance data inadvertently became accessible to all staff. The system risked drawing the attention of European regulators, since it captured exchanges between employees on both continents.
In a statement to AFP Tuesday, a Meta spokesperson said the program was designed with privacy safeguards.
“While we have no indication at this time that any data was improperly accessed by Meta employees, we’re pausing it while we investigate,” the statement said.
One employee summed up the mood with a meme from “The Office,” posted on an internal company forum, reading: “0 days since our last nonsense.” ‘Dead end quest’
All of these efforts aim to make up for a persistent lag behind Google, OpenAI and Anthropic, which dominate the race for cutting-edge AI models. Meta’s own models, repeatedly delayed, have proved disappointing even internally.
To regain ground, Zuckerberg invested over $14 billion last year into Scale AI, a San Francisco-based startup, and poached its CEO Alexandr Wang -- who was 28 years old at the time -- to run a “superintelligence” lab inside Meta.
The expensive bet has yet to win people over. Several key figures have since walked out, among them Yann LeCun, considered one of the “godfathers” of modern AI, who had led Meta’s AI research since 2013.
LeCun suddenly found himself reporting to Wang, more than 35 years his junior. He left Meta at the end of 2025 to launch his own startup.
In an interview with the Financial Times, the Turing Award winner lamented that, although “he learns fast,” Wang has “no experience with research” and was on “a dead end” quest. AFP
together education-ready devices, sustained teacher development, and a structured school recognition pathway, each reinforcing the other to help schools move from early digital adoption toward lasting transformation.
munities with access to emergency information and digital services, especially in geographically isolated areas. To advance digital inclusion, Globe extended its 4G coverage to 96.41% of the population in 2025 while continuing to improve network access in underserved communities. Alongside broader coverage, the company also pushed affordability initiatives that helped make connectivity more accessible to more
The Foundation: Education-Ready Devices and Security Galaxy Tab devices, paired with S Pen, Samsung Notes, and Galaxy AI, give teachers and students an intuitive platform for everyday learning. With Samsung Knox embedded across all devices, the programme delivers secure, wellmanaged learning environments, protecting data, supporting fair assessments, and giving educators, students, and parents confidence in digital learning. Building Capability: Teacher Training and Professional Development Technology is only as effective as the teachers using it. Through Samsung Learning Hub, the programme provides professional development and practical training to help teachers integrate technology into lesson planning and classroom delivery, with structured modules from foundational basics to advanced strategies, certificates that recognise progress, and curated content from education partners. Beyond the platform, the programme includes a professional development support framework delivered to schools for both educators and school leaders, elevating digital competency so teachers can be more productive and create more engaging lesson plans and content for their students.
ready infrastructure and conduct upskilling to help more Filipinos become safer online, more digitally savvy, and better able to participate in the digital economy.
Advancing Climate Action and Operational Efficiency At the same time, Globe continues to strengthen its climate action efforts as part of its broader resiliency strategy. The company reported a 15% year-on-year reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions and a 9% reduction in Scope 3 emissions in 2025, exceeding its annual reduction targets. Renewable energy also continues to play a growing role in Globe’s operations, with 34% of the company’s total energy consumption now coming from renewable energy. This keeps Globe on track toward its target of reaching 42% renewable energy usage by 2030. These efforts continue to help
As connectivity becomes increasingly essential in
The logo of the US multinational technology Meta company is displayed on a smartphone in Mulhouse, eastern France.
Gemini shopping
FOLLOWING the successful launch of four satellite command centers in Ilocos Norte, Isabela, Iloilo, and Tacloban in early June, the country’s Unified 911 system will expand to Mindanao this July with two new dialect-sensitive command centers in Cagayan de Oro and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The two new centers will connect Mindanao to the National Command Center in Metro Manila, the Regional Command Center in Cebu, and existing satellite command centers in the north (Batac, Ilocos Norte) and the Visayas Region (Leganes, Iloilo; and Tacloban City). Additional satellite command centers in Central Luzon (Pampanga) and the Bicol Region (Camarines Sur) are scheduled to open in the third quarter as part of the nationwide rollout.
The Unified 911 system integrates police, fire, and medical emergency services into a single, toll-free, 24/7 emergency network. Equipped to receive and process calls in local dialects, the new command centers are expected to significantly reduce emergency response times by enabling faster, clearer communication between callers and emergency telecommunicators.
“For the first time, emergency response is being built around the communities we serve,” said Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla. “By placing command centers closer to the people and ensuring that emergency telecommunicators speak the local language, we remove barriers during the moments when every second counts. This is how we make emergency assistance faster, more accessible, and truly nationwide.”
Fire Chief Inspector Espiridion Ganibe, head of the BARMM 911 Satellite Command Center, said the ability to communicate in Maranao, Iranun, Maguindanao, Tausug, Yakan, and other local languages enables callers to explain emergencies without language barriers. “This allows us to gather accurate information quickly, dispatch responders faster, and provide more efficient emergency services to our communities,” he said.
PH’s Unified 911 system expands to Mindanao
Uni ed 911 Center in Cagayan de Oro
In Cagayan de Oro, Fire Chief Inspector Willie M. Tan Jr., head of the Regional Command Center, said emergency calls will now be handled much closer to where incidents occur. “Our emergency telecommunicators are familiar with the local communities, landmarks, and road networks, so they can quickly understand where help is needed,” he said.
Both officials emphasized that speaking directly in Bisaya or BARMM dialects helps callers describe emergencies more accurately, reducing confusion and speeding up response. Tan added that callers often use local terms for places and landmarks, making local language proficiency a criti-
cal advantage, especially when callers are distressed or panicking.
The Mindanao command centers are fully integrated into the national Unified 911 network, allowing seamless coordination during major disasters, large fires, severe weather events, or multiple simultaneous emergencies.
“If there is a major disaster, a large fire, severe weather event, or multiple emergencies happening at the same time, we coordinate closely with the National Command Center and other regional centers. Information is shared in real time, and resources can be mobilized quickly wherever they are needed,” Tan said.
Ganibe encouraged BARMM residents to use 911 responsibly for genuine emergencies, assuring them that trained personnel are ready to respond in their local dialect and coordinate immediate assistance. Tan likewise urged the public to remember the emergency number and provide accurate information to help responders act as quickly as possible.
The Unified 911 platform consolidates more than 200 local emergency hotlines into a single nationwide reporting system.
Converge, IBPAP join forces to capacitate BPO sector
LEADING fiber broadband and technology solutions provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has joined forces with the IT & Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) to empower the sector employing almost two million Filipinos and generating export earnings worth US$40 billion last year as artificial intelligence (AI) stirs profound transformation in various industries.
“We need to level up the skills of our workers and transform our industries to enable us to capture the opportunities being offered by the AI boom. At Converge, we have laid down the solid foundation through our national digital infrastructure to support industries including our BPOs in their AI journey. The next step is to capacitate our workers with skills necessary to navigate AI and other emerging technologies,” said Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy during the ceremony held at the Converge Global Business
headquarters to officially welcome the company as a member of IBPAP.
Representing the collective interest of the IT and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) sector from over 400 companies, IBPAP is also partnered with six industry-specific associations - the Animation Council of the Philippines, Inc., Global Capability Center Philippines, Customer Xperience Association of the Philippines, Game Developers Association of the Philippines, Healthcare Information Management Association of the Philippines, and the Philippine Software Industry Association.
“During the pandemic, when the world was shutting down, the IT-BPM sector added 260,000 jobs and connectivity made that possible. Converge was central to that story, keeping our people online and our operations running across the country. That’s why welcoming them as our newest Platinum Member isn’t just a recognition
President and CEO; and Celeste Ilagan, IBPAP Chief Operating O cer during the contract
signing ceremony marking Converge’s o cial membership as an IBPAP Platinum Member. of business value–it’s an acknowledgment of a partner who showed up when it mattered most,” IBPAP President and CEO Jack Madrid said.
Filipinos not safe online, says bolttech
GLOBAL insurtech
has released new research showing that consumers in the Philippines rank among the most confident in AsiaPacific in their online safety, but this confidence is not reflected in actual behavior, exposing many to cyber risks. In the Philippines, 96% of respondents rate their online safety habits as “good” or “very good,” yet less than half (48%) consistently practice strong cyber hygiene, resulting in a 48-point perception gap, wider than the regional average (41%). This gap is reflected in real world exposure. bolttech’s Asia Pacific Cyber Safety Landscape 2026 study found that 93% of Filipinos have encountered a scam attempt – above the regional average of 89% – with 57% already victims of cybercrime, compared to 39% across Asia Pacific, while 58% expect someone in their household to fall victim within the next year.
“What this shows is that the issue is no longer awareness — it’s behavior,” said Jemma Delacruz, General Manager, Philippines, bolttech. “Consumers already know cyber risks exist, but protection today still depends too heavily on individuals making the right decisions every time. What’s needed now is a shift towards support that is embedded and seamless, so people are protected as they go about their everyday digital lives.”
The study, conducted with Blackbox Research, highlights that risky online habits remain widespread in the Philippines. Nearly 70% of consumers reuse passwords across multiple accounts, increasing the likelihood that a single breach can compromise multiple platforms.
Despite this awareness of cyber risks, many still fail to follow basic cyber hygiene practices, leaving themselves exposed to increasingly sophisticated scams.
Across Asia-Pacific, the findings reveal clear regional contrasts, with much of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia, reporting higher exposure to cybercrime and more frequent scam activity compared to other markets in Asia- Pacific such as South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, and Australia.
Uy underscored that, apart from the perks of industry knowledge-building and networking, the membership presents a prime opportunity for possible collaboration, especially with the prevalence of AI.
“Even before we became a member, my mindset has always been to protect this industry of nearly two million workers. Since we are a global hub of business process outsourcing along with India, I’ve wanted to help upskill workers, especially for artificial intelligencepreparedness,” stressed Uy, raising the need to boost the valuable, export revenue- generating sector.
“We cannot deny that AI is here and will continue to transform industries. Let’s face it: AI handles simple, repetitive tasks cheaper and faster. The future of Philippine BPOs is in complex work, which requires upgrading our workforce from basic support to highly skilled specialists. To make this shift happen, we are here to support the government and the private sector in driving the next wave of growth for this industry,” he pointed out.
Blockchain doesn’t hide crime—it helps expose it
financial crime, or is it increasingly becoming a tool that helps expose it?
The Myth: Web3 is anonymous
The biggest misconception about cryptocurrency is that it is completely anonymous. In reality, public blockchains operate on a basis of pseudonymity. Wallet addresses are not inherently tied to a person’s identity, but every transaction is permanently recorded on an immutable public ledger.
● The Permanent Ledger: Unlike physical cash or opaque shell companies, every single transaction on a public blockchain is permanently recorded, timestamped, and visible to anyone with just a few clicks.
● Traceable Breadcrumbs: While a wallet address consists of a string of random letters and numbers rather than a legal name, the entire history of where those funds came from, where they moved, and where they land remains public forever.
● The Cash-Out Bottleneck: The moment a bad actor attempts to move those
funds to a centralized exchange to convert them into fiat currency. Centralized exchanges like Binance implement strict Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols that link those digital addresses directly to real-world identities. Each movement can be tracked and traced from where it was originally to which wallet t goes.
In short, trying to hide stolen public funds on a transparent blockchain can leave a permanent trail. These trails are the ones that investigators can follow using blockchain analytics and collaboration with regulated service providers.
The Reality: Bad actors get caught The narrative that crypto crimes go unpunished is rapidly dissolving. Advanced blockchain forensics, combined with swift actions by local regulatory bodies and law enforcement trained together with globally established blockchain exchanges, have made it difficult for bad actors to find a haven.
In the ongoing Flood Control Project
investigations, law enforcement authorities have reportedly frozen billions of pesos in assets linked to fraudulent activity. As criminals attempt to exploit digital assets, they increasingly encounter a sophisticated ecosystem of blockchain analytics, transaction monitoring, and cross-sector cooperation. Leading Web3 platforms deploy advanced risk monitoring systems that can detect suspicious transaction patterns or connections to known illicit addresses, enabling swift action when required.
Another recent notable example is Binance’s collaboration in the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) Operation Atlantic, which tracked and froze over USD 12 million worth of assets from crypto and investment scammers. The week-long operation saw Binance’s Special Investigation team provide investigative support to the UK law enforcement in identifying victims, tracking down scam websites, and providing the necessary tools to support outreach and intervention efforts.
Uni ed 911 Mindanao Regional Command Center in BARMM
Shown here are (from left) Grace Jarin-Castillo, Converge SVP and Head of Global Business Sales & Marketing; Dennis Anthony Uy, Converge Co-Founder and CEO; Jack Madrid, IBPAP
Blockchain’s greatest strength is accountability.
SHOWBIZ
Kyline Alcantara clicks with caution after costly scam
By Angelica Villanueva
The actress shared that she once clicked a suspicious link, landed on another website, and later discovered that money had been taken from her account. She did not notice the loss until a week or two later.
“Someone sent me a text, and there was a link. Then I clicked it. I don’t know. I can’t remember if it was an email or whatever... Then it led me to another website,” she said in an interview.
“I don’t really check yung account. So, I only noticed it maybe after about a week or two,” Kyline added.
In her words, she described the incident as “an expensive lesson.” Now, the experience has taken on new meaning as she joins the cast of Taskforce Firewall, where she plays Callie, a forensic accountant assigned to help investigate cybercrime cases.
Asked what she learned from being
scammed, Kyline said the incident taught her to be more cautious online.
“Don’t click on links carelessly,” she said.
She also urged people to verify where messages and emails come from before opening links, adding that doing so has become increasingly difficult because scammers can disguise their identities.
“Especially nowadays, you can easily, not that I can do it, but you can easily hack or disguise someone else,” Kyline added.
In the series, Callie follows financial transactions to help uncover criminals.
“Callie is a forensic accountant. As they say, if you really want to know where a criminal comes from or where their activities started, you have to follow the money,” Kyline said.
Her character joins Taskforce Firewall as the team investigates
OPM artists Ice Seguerra, Sitti, Nyoy Volante, Kean Cipriano, Princess Velasco, and Juris will headline Sessionistas: The Playlist, a concert set for Aug. 22 at The Theatre at Solaire in Parañaque.
The concert, scheduled at 8:00 p.m., will feature songs popular among millennials, focusing on themes of love, heartbreak, friendship, and healing.
Unlike a conventional tribute or soundtrack concert, the show is structured in themed segments, including the “Kilig Playlist,” “Broken Playlist,” “Barkada
cases inspired by real cybercrimes. Among them is an e-sabong case, which Kyline said reflects an issue many Filipinos have encountered.
“I think that’s definitely the goal of ‘Taskforce Firewall,’ to make people aware and to warn the people also,” she shared.
“Especially since we all have cellphones, we’re all on social media, and we’re all vulnerable to cybercrime,” Kyline added.
“Taskforce Firewall” lead star Miguel Tanfelix echoed the show’s advocacy, saying the series aims to help viewers recognize scams while tackling issues involving fake identities, artificial intelligence, and other online threats.
Sessionistas bring back millennial hits at Solaire
Playlist,” and “Healing Playlist.”
Producer and creative director Liza Diño described the concert as a way for audiences to reconnect with songs that remain part of their daily lives.
“Right now, everyone’s in their nostalgia era,” said Diño, CEO of Fire & Ice Entertainment. “We wanted to lean all the way into that. These are the songs that built us. But the thing people realize when they’re actually in the room is that it’s not just nostalgia — it’s not a song you used to feel something for. It’s a song you still
Silent Sanctuary’s ‘Gabi ng Lambing’
concert sells out in five hours
By Nickie Wang
OPM band Silent Sanctuary sold out tickets to its first major solo arena concert, Gabi ng Lambing, in five hours after sales opened through SM Tickets.
The concert is set for Oct. 25 at SM Mall of Asia Arena and marks a milestone for the band, which is celebrating 24 years in music.
Billed as a celebration of “24 Years of Songs,” the show will feature fan favorites and lesser-known tracks, along with performances by the Manila Symphony Orchestra and Viva Voce, as well as guest performers.
Following the sellout, the band thanked fans in a post on its official Facebook page.
Gusto kong tumalon-tumalon sa saya,” the band said. “See you all on October 25! Gagalingan namin para sulit ang suporta at pagmamahal ninyo. Maraming salamat!”
“This is the peak of our career,” vocalist and guitarist Raymund ‘Sarkie’ Sarangay said. “Five years ago, we were already wishing and talking about this. It’s perfect timing because time has improved us, and this time, we aim to give fans a good experience.”
He encouraged people to think twice whenever money becomes part of an online conversation and to seek help from trusted people if they suspect a scam.
Kyline said the show’s message hits close to home after her own experience with online fraud.
Sobrang importante po ng ating mga pera In this economy?
Definitely,” she stated.
Taskforce Firewall airs from Monday to Friday at 8:50 p.m. on GMA Prime.
do. That’s the part of the show I’m most excited for people to feel.”
The lineup brings together artists with distinct musical styles, from Seguerra’s coming-of-age hits and Sitti’s bossa nova sound to the ballads of Volante and Juris. Cipriano adds a rock-driven set, while Velasco contributes pop ballads suited for sing-along moments.
Organizers also announced that Duncan Ramos will join future runs of Sessionistas, with more concert dates expected after the August show.
Silent Sanctuary is composed of Sarangay on vocals and guitar, Anjo Inacay on cello, Allen Calixto on drums, Kim Mirandilla-Ng on violin, Ronnie Ropal on bass, and Poch Villalon on synthesizers and backing vocals.
Sarangay said the concert carries added significance because the band will headline the arena on its own after years of performing as guest artists in major venues.
“May mga times na nakakatugtog na rin kami sa big venues like MOA, Araneta, and Philippine Arena, pero as a guest,” he said. “Pero what if this time naman, kami naman ang tutugtog as a band sa ganitong kadaming tao?”
The concert will feature about 30 songs, all from the band’s catalog, with orchestral arrangements and no cover performances.
For longtime members Sarangay, Inacay, and Calixto, the concert fulfills a goal years in the making. For newer members Mirandilla-Ng, Ropal, and Villalon, it also signals a new chapter for the group.
“Ang sarap i-celebrate ang lineup na ito,” Inacay said. “Parang nabigyan kami ng bagong direction.”
The show will be directed by Paolo Valenciano with Ria Osorio serving as musical director.
Mathay
According
By Angelica Villanueva and Othel Campos
P-POP girl group BINI has officially been named one of the Philippines’ newest tourism ambassadors. On Friday, July 3, the group was formally introduced by the Department of Tourism as the country’s tourism ambassador during a courtesy visit to the DOT Central Office in Makati City, where Tourism Secretary Maria Bernardita “Dita” Angara-Mathay welcomed the members. The appointment comes days after Angara-
“We
Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, and Sheena, BINI rose to prominence with hits including “Pantropiko” and “Salamin, Salamin” and will work with the DOT to promote Philippine tourism.
YLINE Alcantara learned her online safety lesson the hard way.
P-pop girl group BINI joins the Department of Tourism to promote the country through music and storytelling (Photo from X)
Kyline Alcantara draws from her own experience with online fraud as ‘Taskforce Firewall’ highlights the growing threat of cybercrime
Sessionistas
SATURDAY, JULY 4, 2026
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,
JASPER VALDEZ,
Writer
Writer
Dee-tails
Ardee de los Angeles
I’VE been visiting Siargao for years, and every trip feels like coming home. When I saw the trailer for Love, Siargao , I immediately recognized the location. It’s a place where I’ve stayed a couple of times, made friends, and created real memories. So it’s great to see this spot on TV, finally getting the spotlight it deserves.
C4 LIFE
powerhouse actors is a major draw, the series’ setting itself also plays a starring role. The location anchoring this fresh love story is the stunning Katig Siargao Boutique Hotel—the very same place where I’ve spent lazy afternoons
By Nickie Wang
SINCE mobile connectivity becomes more embedded in daily life, premium users are increasingly looking for plans that support not only individual needs but also family, work, and travel demands.
Smart Communications’ latest offering, Infinity Plus, responds to that growing demand with a premium postpaid plan built around shared access and expanded services.
The company has repositioned its flagship Smart Infinity brand to cater to customers managing multiple responsibilities, from professionals and entrepreneurs to modern households seeking seamless connectivity across several users.
Unlike traditional premium plans focused mainly on devices or data allowances, Infinity Plus is structured as a multi-line service under one account. It offers one primary line and two supplementary lines, allowing members to share benefits across three users.
The plan includes unlimited data, calls and texts, roaming-ready connectivity, and a shared consumable wallet for digital subscriptions, in-app purchases, and roaming add-ons.
“Infinity has long been anchored on elevated service standards. With Infinity Plus, this approach takes a broader view, moving past individual usage to accommodate multiple users within a single account,” said Tina Montinola, head of Smart Infinity.
Montinola said many Infinity members balance professional and personal responsibilities, making reliability and ease essential, especially during travel.
Apart from connectivity, Smart is positioning Infinity Plus as part of a broader lifestyle ecosystem, as telecom providers increasingly compete through services and
customer experience rather than network access alone.
Members gain access to priority network servicing and support at Smart stores nationwide, as well as a dedicated hotline for faster customer assistance.
Qualified subscribers are also assigned a 24/7 personal relationship manager for account support.
The service includes an Infinity Worldwide Concierge that assists with travel arrangements, restaurant reservations, gift sourcing, golf bookings, roadside assistance, and select medical coordination abroad.
Smart also offers curated member privileges, including partner perks, priority access, and exclusive experiences.
The strategy signals a wider industry shift as telecom companies move deeper into premium lifestyle services to attract high-value customers.
Rather than treating connectivity as a standalone utility, providers are increasingly bundling digital access with concierge-style offerings that combine convenience, service, and exclusivity.
Infinity Plus enters that space with a model centered on shared access, allowing premium benefits to extend to family members or close contacts under a single subscription.
Backed by Smart’s award-winning network (recognized by Ookla for Best Mobile Video Experience and Best Mobile Latency in the Philippines for early 2026), Infinity Plus delivers not only seamless connectivity, but also the reliability and performance expected by its most discerning customers.
Smart Infinity Plus is available as a SIM-only plan with a 12-month lockin period, offering three lines under one account and full access to Infinity services and support. For more information, visit https://smart.com. ph/Postpaid/smartinfinityplus.
Just steps from the shore, the seaside suites blur the line between comfort and nature, letting guests wake to the rhythm of the Siargao tides
A familiar face in ‘Love, Siargao’
watching the waves roll in.
Katig Siargao is more than just a backdrop; it’s woven into the story itself. In the series, Han Bin (Kim Ji Soo) is the hotel’s co-owner and matchmaker, bringing together Jao (Alden Richards) and Kara (Nadine Lustre) as their romance unfolds across the island. The series is a collaboration with the Department of Tourism, part of a larger initiative to showcase Philippine destinations through storytelling, with Love, Siargao being the first of many. It hit differently seeing those familiar spots on screen, like introducing the world to a friend who has been quietly amazing all along.
In reality, Katig Siargao is a boutique beachfront hotel that captures the relaxed, enchanting spirit of the island. Its name comes from the Siargaonon word for a boat’s outrigger, representing how the hotel guides guests in exploring Siargao. With only 11 meticulously designed rooms, it offers an intimate and personalized escape. Options range from cozy deluxe rooms to the twobedroom beachfront villa with a full kitchen and ocean-view balcony. I remember staying in one of those rooms and just sitting on the balcony for hours, watching the sea and taking it all in.
The hotel was created by an all-Filipino team of partners who share a deep love for the island and want every guest to experience it.
According to Kim Honasan, one of the partners: “We designed Katig as sort of an ode to the island, as all of the partners are absolutely in love with this place. Everything, from the picture windows framing the view, to the name of the hotel, to the art adorning the walls, references the beauty that is Siargao. When we first heard of the series, it never even crossed our minds that we would be part of it.”
“We were just so happy that more people would be introduced to our island. Katig was just one of the many locations scouted by the production team, and we can’t express the
surprise and extreme joy we all felt when we got the call that our hotel was chosen. Maybe they felt the love we all poured into creating what we hope people will enjoy when they see the hotel in the series,” Honasan added.
For Katig’s team, the experience went far beyond hosting a film production. It became a chance to showcase the genuine Siargaonon warmth and hospitality for which the island is known.
With its authentic charm and beachfront vistas, Katig Siargao provides the perfect setting for the series’ exploration of romance
and the famous “Siargao Curse,” where visitors either never leave or unexpectedly fall in love. For the cast and crew, the hotel has already created “unforgettable memories.” As the series brings this paradise to screens worldwide, Katig Siargao stands ready to welcome a new wave of visitors eager to experience its magic firsthand. And who knows? Maybe the next time I visit Siargao, I’ll run into some fans who fell in love with the place just like I did, through a screen and then in person. Because that’s the thing about Siargao: once it gets into your heart, it never really leaves.
GCash, travelers can manage different payment methods in one e-wallet, access low forex rates, and track spending in real time. GCash also allows Scan to Pay via Alipay+ at QR-enabled merchants and Tap to Pay using Android phones for quick transactions. For bigger purchases, the GCash Card can be used for payments or ATM withdrawals abroad. Traveling abroad is exciting, and having convenient payment options can make the experience smoother and more worry-free.
The cast of ‘Love, Siargao’ brings romance to the island as the series showcases Siargao’s scenery alongside its stories and local charm
The idyllic island of Siargao takes center stage in one of the most anticipated romantic series of the year. Love, Siargao, starring Alden Richards and Nadine Lustre, premiered on June 26. While the pairing of these two
Katig staff welcomes Nadine Lustre (center) with the warm hospitality that made the beachfront boutique hotel a fitting setting for ‘Love, Siargao’