Manila Standard - 2026 July 8 - Wednesday

VP shows up, but skips trial

By Joel Zurbano, Katrina Manubay, Charles Dantes and Maricel Cruz

VICE President Sara Duterte finally showed up at the Senate yesterday, but not to attend the second day

questions from the media.

“In this bloodbath and bludgeoning, I will be bloodied but unbowed,” the Vice President said, adding that her defense team was to blame for the decision not to take questions from journalists covering the Senate.

Her defense spokesman, lawyer Michael Poa, specified that Duterte would

By Joel E. Zurbano, Maricel Cruz and Pot Chavez

and former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez. Meanwhile, lawyers identified with Duterte asked the Supreme Court to stop the impeachment trial over rules issues and the designation of Senator Francis Escudero as the court’s presiding officer. This as retired Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio maintained that the Constitution does not mandate that the Senate

Marcoleta still in hospital, not fit to stand trial as of now—PNP

By Vince Lopez and Katrina Manubay

SENATOR Rodante Marcoleta is currently considered “not fit to stand trial” after experiencing chest and neck pain following his arrest on Monday, July 6, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP) Health Service.

Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte visited Marcoleta at the PNP General Hospital on Tuesday.

In a text message to the Manila Standard, a source said Duterte arrived at the hospital around 7:43 a.m for “a quick visit.”

Police Lt. Col. Benaly Bayani, chief of the Internal Medicine Department of the PNP Health Service, confirmed that the vice president’s visit lasted about an hour.

Bayani said Marcoleta remains under medical observation at the PNP General Hospital and is undergoing laboratory tests for further evaluation.

Bayani said the 72-year-old senator’s blood pressure remains unstable, although his condition is considered clinically stable because his symptoms occur intermittently.

“His blood pressure is not yet stable.

‘State

FORMER Public Works Secretary

Manuel Bonoan is practically being held hostage by the Office of the Ombudsman in recruiting him as a state witness against former Speaker Martin Romualdez and other lawmakers implicated in the flood control project

scandal, a former law dean said.

In an interview with dzMM, lawyer Jose “Judd” Roy III said it also appears the Ombudsman does not have a strong case against Romualdez since it is still gathering evidence against the Leyte first district representative nearly a year

By Rex Espiritu and Katrina Manubay

THE United States voiced alarm Monday over Beijing’s nuclear program after China test-fired a dummy warhead into the Pacific Ocean, the latest move in its rapid military modernization.

Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said the transfer of five Abukuma-class destroyers from Japan to the Philippines has already been finalized, with only administrative details remaining before implementation.

since the allegations surfaced. “I am really very disappointed. I have a very low opinion of what (Ombudsman spokesman) Atty. (Mico) Clavano said. I listened to it. Good Lord, what is that? It’s as if

By Rio N. Araja

IN THE SENATE. Vice President Sara Duterte is mobbed by the media upon arrival at the Senate yesterday not to attend the impeachment court hearing but to meet her defense team. She later on held a quickie press conference. Lino Santos

not participate in the proceedings of the impeachment trial, opting instead to engage with her defense team.

“The VP is present and has numerous engagements. We have a scheduled meeting today. Given the defense’s presence, the VP prefers locations that are convenient for us,” Poa said.

Hostile witness

During yesterday’s resumption of the impeachment trial, private prosecutor Lorna Kapunan asked the court to summon Duterte as a witness, emphasizing that her testimony would be relevant. She noted that although the Vice President could be a potentially hostile witness, her presence was necessary.

“One of the key witnesses, hostile, would be the Vice President. We are already respectfully informing this Honorable Court that we will manifest that we will have a written request for her

presence in connection with this article on grave threats,” Kapunan said.

Presiding senator-judge Francis Escudero, however, clarified the impeachment rules do not compel the respondent to attend the hearings.

“The impeachment rules do not mandate nor require the respondent to attend any hearing or trial of the impeachment court,” Escudero said.

“Should the counsel for the prosecutors desire to call the respondent herself, the court will act on that motion and request once it is made and or filed, and need not make a ruling at this point in time,” he added.

Kapunan accepted the ruling but emphasized the prosecution was reserving its right to compel Duterte’s testimony.

“We are not waiving the right to call her at the appropriate time and to file the appropriate request for subpoena duces tecum and subpoena testificandum,” Kapunan said.

‘Better for Duterte to appear’ Malacañang, for its part, said Duterte

two-minute video was relevant to the case. Prosecution lawyer Virgil Ligutan asserted that the video had been unedited and preserved as is.

The prosecution introduced its first witness, Senior Agent John Mark Calilung of the National Bureau of Investigation’s cybercrime unit. Calilung was tasked with validating Duterte’s November 2024 livestream, during which she purportedly disclosed that she had hired a hitman to kill the President, the First lady, and Leyte First District Rep. Romualdez.

Court junks motion to exclude NBI witness

Defense lawyer Carlo Joaquin Narvasa moved to exclude Calilung as a prosecution witness, saying his name was not attached to the Saballa and Cabrera complaints, as well as the articles of impeachment transmitted to the Senate. The court overruled this objection.

The prosecution presented two videos that highlighted statements made by Duterte, which were supposedly pertinent to the grave threats complaint. A third film clip was shown featuring a statement from President Marcos, addressing these threats as part of the prosecution’s presentations.

The defense wanted the prosecution to play the whole two-hour video of the Vice President where she made the alleged assassination threat against the President to show the full context of her statement in the video lasting two hours and 36 minutes.

The prosecution argued that only the

Court overrules defense bid to air entire video

The court favored the showing of the two-minute video which showed the Vice President saying on Nov. 23, 2024 that she hired a hitman to kill the First Couple, along with Romualdez. Duterte claimed later on that her words were “maliciously taken out of logical context.”

Calilung testified to having identified, preserved, collected and authenticated the video and other related digital recordings.

The two-minute video showed Duterte saying “Yes huwag kang mag-alala, Ma’am, sa security ko kasi may kinausap na ako na tao. Sinabi ko sa kaniya kapag pinatay ako, patayin mo si BBM, si Liza Araneta, at si Martin Romualdez. No joke, no joke. Nagbilin na ako, Ma’am. ‘Pag namatay ako, sabi ko huwag kang tumigil hanggang ‘di mo mapatay sila. (Don’t worry Ma’am with my security because I have talked with a person. I told him if I get killed, kill BBM, Liza Araneta, and Martin Romualdez. I left words: If I die, don’t stop until you kill them). And then he said ‘yes.’

SC asked to stop impeachment hearings

In an urgent manifestation with motion, the lawyers led by Israelito Torre-

ar weapons buildup is of great concern to the region and the world,” he said in a statement.

Monday’s test came two years after China fired an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the waters near French Polynesia, in what had been the first launch of such missile over international waters in more than 40 years.

Analysts said that the test demonstrated growing Chinese capacity to strike the United States mainland, which sees the Asian power as its top adversary despite a reconciliation drive under President Donald Trump.

“At a time when the United States is working harder than ever to prevent nuclear proliferation, China is doing the opposite,” State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said.

“Beijing’s rapid and opaque nucle -

The United States in February allowed the expiration of New START, the last major arms control pact with Russia, as it insisted on a new agreement that also includes China.

The overtures have been rebuffed by China, whose nuclear arsenal is much smaller than Russia’s but has been rapidly growing.

The State Department urged China to “engage in meaningful arms control discussions and commit to a regularized notification arrangement for all intercontinental-range ballistic missile and space launches.”

New Zealand said that the test took place two hours after China informed Pacific nations of the missile launch, but it was unclear if China gave notice to the United States.

would be better served by personally facing the witnesses against her in the impeachment trial, noting that doing so would allow her to directly refute the allegations.

“As a Filipino and as a lawyer, I believe it is better for a person facing accusations to confront the witnesses against her,” Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said.

“Although I know she (Duterte) will not accept this, nor anyone else’s opinion, if I were her lawyer and I knew my client had done nothing wrong and was innocent, I would have her face the proceedings so she could refute all the allegations,” Castro added.

She said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is not closely monitoring the impeachment trial because he remains focused on carrying out the duties of his office.

“Definitely he will know the news. But as for closely monitoring it, the President has many other duties to attend to,” Castro said.

on sought a status quo ante order or any appropriate relief enjoining the Impeachment Court from continuing the hearings.

The manifestation was pursuant to an earlier petition filed last March by Torreon, as well as Duterte, to nullify the impeachment complaints.

“Petitioners thus respectfully submit that a temporary restraining order, status quo ante order, or other appropriate interim relief is warranted to ensure that the impeachment trial proceeds, if at all, only under Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials validly adopted and only under a presiding officer whose authority to preside is not under serious and unresolved constitutional challenge,” the petition stated.

Duterte’s lawyers further argued that that the validity of the June 3, 2026 proceedings at the Senate which eventually led to the election of Senator Sherwin Gatchalian as Senate president, the amendments to the Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials, and the designation of Escudero as presiding officer, directly affect the validity of the impeachment trial.

“Otherwise, constitutional review may be reduced to an after-the-fact pronouncement on proceedings that have already moved forward under a cloud of illegality,” the petitioners asserted.

Election of Chiz as president officer valid—Carpio

Asked if the election of Senator Judge Francis Escudero as presiding

Chinese navy spokesperson Wang Xuemeng said in a statement shared on WeChat that the test launch was “a routine arrangement of China’s annual military training,” and that “relevant countries were informed in advance.”

Monitors said that the rocket fired from a nuclear submarine appeared to land near the Solomon Islands, the South Pacific nation that forged a secretive security deal with China in 2022 which a new government is reviewing.

Growing offensive options for China

Lyle Morris, a senior fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute, said that the missile demonstrated that China had growing options beyond firing from land.

“A test of this length is a major development and would indicate that China is moving toward a significantly more

As this developed, former Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) president and constitutional law expert Domingo Cayosa explained that although the Vice President is not legally required to attend the hearings, public perception remains a critical factor in her trial’s outcome.

“It is a very important process for those high officials in our government who committed mistakes, sin, abuse, or neglect; we can hold them accountable, and we will not wait for the coming election,” Cayosa said in an interview with Dobol B TV.

“The nation also needs to know what her (Duterte) answer will be. What is her argument, and what is the decision of the Senate tribunal, the impeachment tribunal? We need to hear from both sides.”

“That is why the proceedings are open to the public and to the media – for the nation needs to see what is happening, not just be surprised by the result,” he added. With Jessa Mae Adomael and Ruby Rose D. Bagaporo

officer is legit, Carpio told Manila Standard that the fundamental law does not specifically require the Senate president to preside.

“The Constitution does not say the Senate President shall preside in all other impeachment cases,” he said.

Carpio noted that what the 1987 Constitution only provides is that the Chief Justice of the SC shall preside when the President of the Philippines is on trial.

Further, the same provision provides the concurrence of two-thirds of all the Members of the Senate to convict the impeachable officer.

Last month, the retired magistrate raised concerns that the presiding officer of the impeachment trial should faithfully implement the forthwith requirement of the Constitution.

“We should elect someone who has not favored the non-holding of the impeachment proceedings. Chiz (Escudero) has said forthwith does not mean kaagad (immediate), we can delay this,” said Carpio.

“We don’t want a presiding officer who will say forthwith means hindi kaagad (not immediate). I think we should put somebody there who has not made that kind of a position,” he added.

Carpio, who previously served as chair of the Senate Electoral Tribunal, underscored the presiding officer’s crucial role in the trial, noting that the presiding officer will deliver the initial ruling in the course of the proceedings.

survivable and longer-range sea-based nuclear deterrent capability,” he said.

It shows that China’s navy “is capable of targeting the continental United States from bastions close to Chinese waters.”

The show of Chinese military might came the same day that Australia and Fiji signed a major defense treaty, part of US ally Canberra’s efforts to regain the advantage against China following the controversial Solomon Islands treaty.

Analysts, however, doubted a direct connection, saying that such tests are likely planned well in advance.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said that the Chinese test was “destabilizing to the region.”

Japan, which said it was informed in advance of the launch, said it had strongly urged China to reconsider and voiced “serious concerns” over Beijing’s growing military activity. With AFP

We can say he is clinically stable because his symptoms come and go, but his blood pressure continues to fluctuate,” Bayani said.

Marcoleta’s blood pressure reached 140/90, according to Bayani. Authorities continue to monitor the senator’s fluctuating blood pressure and recurring episodes of chest tightness while he remains confined at the PNP General Hospital.

Marcoleta was brought to the hospital on Monday after complaining of chest pain and elevated blood pressure following his arrest in connection with a plunder case.

Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla earlier said medical procedures for Marcoleta could take about two days before he can be presented before the Sandiganbayan for the return of the warrant and the issuance of a commitment order for his detention. For now, Marcoleta remains under observation while doctors await the results of his medical tests and further assessments.

Marcoleta, a staunch Duterte ally, was hospitalized after complaining of chest pain and high blood pressure following his arrest.

Bayani said Marcoleta is “clinically stable” but remains under close observation because of his age and underlying medical conditions. Remulla said the senator’s medical examination is part of the booking process and could take up to two days.

Marcoleta was arrested Monday following a Sandiganbayan Third Division order in connection with a non-bailable plunder case over his alleged failure to disclose P75 million in campaign donations for his 2025 senatorial bid. The court also ordered the arrest of former congressman Michael Defensor and businessmen Joseph Espiritu and Aristotle Viray, who were identified as Marcoleta’s alleged campaign donors.

he’s saying they will use Bonoan as a state witness if he provides evidence against Speaker Romualdez,” Roy said.

“That means you’re practically holding Bonoan hostage! ‘If you don’t testify against Romualdez, we’ll go after you.’

That’s how it comes across,” he added.

Clavano earlier said Bonoan was accepted as state witness after the latter agreed to cooperate on the Ombudsman’s case against Romualdez.

“The case against former Speaker Martin Romualdez is getting stronger by the day, and the reason why we accepted former DPWH Sec. Manny Bonoan as a state witness is precisely because his intention to cooperate with

us is for that case specifically,” Clavano said on June 30.

Roy, who served on the defense panel during the impeachment trial of the late Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona and a former acting president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, said the Ombudsman has already worn out the “mastermind” angle in tagging Romualdez as the brains behind the scandal.

“I’m already tired of hearing about this so-called mastermind. My ears are bleeding from hearing about it. This system of corruption involving government contracts is an old story.”

“They’re insisting there’s a mastermind, when it should already be obvious that these incidents are separate operations. Every district has its own scheme because contracts are award-

ed district by district. The truth is that these [graft] operations are run separately in different places.” Roy said.

In an earlier interview, Romualdez’s lawyer Abdiel Dan Fajardo said there was no evidence to link the lawmaker to questionable government infrastructure.

Fajardo said Romualdez is “far removed” from the process of fund allocation, bidding, and disbursement of flood control projects executed by the Department of Public Works and Highways, which is at the center of the allegations.

“It is alarming for us because former Secretary Manny Bonoan never mentioned the name of former Speaker Romualdez in his interviews or even formal testimony (before the Senate and the Independent Commission for Infrastructure).”

“I can plainly say that the (former) Speaker and former Secretary Bonoan, whether on a personal basis or directly or indirectly through their offices, they did not talk about flood control programs. That’s why we were surprised (by the Ombudsman’s assertions) because we didn’t think about it…We really don’t remember any occasion (Romualdez and Bonoan discussed the projects) because the former Speaker had no connection to the Secretary,” Fajardo added.

Roy said the Ombudsman appears to be working in vain to link the ex-Speaker to the scandal.

“Why are you chasing a ghost? It looks like you’re simply looking for a scapegoat… To make it look balanced, they go after Romualdez even though they don’t have any evidence. That

winds. The highest wind signal likely to be raised is Signal No. 2 or 3, although signals may also be hoisted over parts of Southern Luzon and the Visayas.

The enhanced southwest monsoon and the outer circulation of Bavi will bring strong to gale-force winds over Pangasinan, Zambales, Bataan, Cavite, Batangas, most of MIMAROPA, the Bicol Region, the Visayas, and Mindanao. PAGASA said most of the country will be affected by Thursday. As of 10 a.m. Tuesday, Bavi had maximum sustained winds of 185 kph and gusts of up to 230 kph. It was located 1,845 kilometers east of Central Luzon, moving west-northwest at 20 kph. It is expected to enter PAR Tuesday evening or early Wednesday, when it will be given the local name “Inday.”

Bavi is expected to remain a super typhoon upon entering PAR before gradually weakening into a typhoon as it moves near extreme Northern Luzon toward Japan’s Ryukyu Islands. It is not expected to make landfall in the Philippines but will continue to enhance the southwest monsoon.

Meanwhile, tens of thousands of residents remained without power Tuesday in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands after Super Typhoon Bavi struck the US Pacific territories.

Rota was the hardest hit, with more than half the island reportedly damaged, while Saipan, Tinian, and parts of Guam also suffered outages.

worries me,” he said.

“Why waste your time trying to force people (to testify against the ex-Speaker)? Are you trying to manufacture a story? That’s not right.”

“When it comes to Romualdez, I see it as targeted justice. He’s being specifically targeted. He’s already been subjected to extortion allegations and all sorts of accusations. We should really take a closer look at this system because it isn’t right,’’ Roy said. Romualdez earlier squarely denied the allegations against him, adding that he will not be a scapegoat in the flood control controversy.

The former Speaker said he had no part in the bicameral conference committee and the small committee budget deliberations, where insertions were allegedly made.

Tulfo: ‘Show proof I received flood money’

By Itchie G. Cabayan

“I WILL resign if anyone can present proof that I received money from flood control.”

Senator Erwin Tulfo made the statement as he challenged those linking him to alleged flood control anomalies to present documentary evidence supporting their claims. He stressed that it would have been impossible for him to receive or be offered such money because he has never handled flood control, farm-tomarket road, or similar projects.

Speaking at the monthly MACHRA Balitaan forum hosted by the Manila City Hall Reporters’ Association at Harbor View Restaurant in Ermita, Tulfo said, “How can I be involved in the flood control anomalies when I have nothing to do with flood control?”

He added: “Let us be straightforward. If you find my name in the DPWH records or on the list allegedly mentioned by Cabral and cited by Congressman Leviste as having received flood control money, I will resign. Bring to the Senate any document showing that Senator Erwin Tulfo had an allocation or was involved in flood control, and I will resign immediately.”

“I will call a press conference to announce my resignation because I lied—because I had a flood control project. I have not received a single centavo from the time I was a congressman until now. I have received no funds from flood control, farm-to-market roads, or any similar irregularity,” Tulfo said.

IN BRIEF

LTO says reshu e amid anti- xer drive

THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Tuesday announced a region-wide reshuffle of Metro Manila district chiefs as it intensified its campaign against fixers and corruption. LTO chief Markus Lacanilao said arresting fixers alone is not enough, stressing the need to determine how they operated and whether personnel neglected their duties or protected them. The LTO, together with the Philippine National Police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and the Anti-Red Tape Authority, arrested three suspected fixers in simultaneous entrapment operations at the LTO West District office in Manila and its East Avenue headquarters in Quezon City on June 29. Lacanilao said all district chiefs are responsible for ensuring their offices remain free of fixers and other illegal activities. Authorities are investigating whether officials were negligent or colluded with the suspects. Rio N. Araja

Manila gives P689m in aid for residents

MANILA Mayor Francisco Moreno Domagoso on Tuesday announced the release of P688.9 million in benefits for 359,295 police personnel, teachers, students, senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and solo parents.

“We will always strive to spend taxpayers’ money wisely, prudently, and efficiently,” Domagoso said.

The City Treasurer’s Office said the funds cover three programs: P158.8 million under funded ordinances for 40,250 beneficiaries to be released from July 8 to 11; P452.4 million in monetary allowances for 293,655 beneficiaries from July 22 to 24; and P77.8 million in Department of Social Welfare and Development social pensions for 25,930 senior citizens, also from July 22 to 24.

Recipients under the funded ordinance program include Manila Police District, Bureau of Fire Protection and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology personnel, public school teachers, Grade 12 students, and students of Universidad de Manila, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, and EARIST. Pot Chavez

New 911 centers boost city response

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Bureau of Fire Protection, PLDT, PLDT Enterprise, and ePLDT have launched four new Unified 911 Satellite Command Centers to strengthen emergency response services. The new centers in Batac, Ilocos Norte; Cauayan, Isabela; Leganes, Iloilo; and Tacloban, Leyte will expand dialect-sensitive emergency services to 20 more provinces across Northern Luzon and the Visayas. The facilities, launched in June, follow the opening of the National Command Center in Manila and the Regional Command Center in Cebu last year. Operators can now respond in Hiligaynon, Waray, Ilocano, and other local languages. Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said callers can now communicate in their native language, improving response time and reducing miscommunication by eliminating the need to route emergency calls through Manila. Minerva Newman

JULY 8, 2026

PCSO expands patient transport in Mindanao

BUTUAN CITY—First Lady Louise AranetaMarcos on Tuesday led the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office’s (PCSO) turnover of 44 Patient Transport Vehicles (PTVs) to local government units in Mindanao at the Libertad Sports Complex, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to accessible healthcare and advancing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to bring essential services closer to Filipinos.

The turnover forms part of PCSO’s continuing nationwide rollout of PTVs under its Medical Transport Vehicle Donation Program, which helps local governments strengthen patient mobility, emergency medical response, and access to hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

PCSO General Manager Melquiades A. Robles said the distribution of PTVs reflects the agency’s commitment to translating charity funds into direct and meaningful assistance for communities.

“Every Patient Transport Vehicle we turn over today represents PCSO’s commitment to bringing help closer to our fellow Filipinos, especially during moments

when timely medical response can save lives,” Robles said. The 44 PTVs were distributed to selected local government units across Mindanao, including beneficiaries in Agusan del Norte, Sulu, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Davao de Oro, Davao Oriental, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and Tawi-Tawi.

The municipalities of Catarman, Guinsiliban, Mahinog, Mambajao, and Sagay in Camiguin also received PTVs under the program.

Robles said the continuing distribution of PTVs is anchored on PCSO’s mandate to ensure that proceeds from its gaming operations are returned to the public through concrete health and social services.

“Every bet supports charity. This is the heart of PCSO’s work. We will continue expanding the distribution of these vehicles so more local government units can be assisted, more patients can be reached, and healthcare services can be delivered more quickly to those in need,” he said.

The PTVs are expected to help local governments provide timely patient transport services, particularly during medical emergencies. They may also support local health programs as well as disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and rehabilitation efforts.

“This turnover is part of our continuing effort to make PCSO’s charity work felt in more communities. We will continue supporting the healthcare priorities of the Marcos administration and work with local governments so that more Filipinos can access the help they need, when they need it,” Robles added.

Manila Water says systems ready for a strong El Niño phenomenon

By Jenniffer B. Austria and Rex Espiritu

MANILA Water Co. (MWC), the water concessionaire for the East Zone of Metro Manila, said it is better prepared to provide uninterrupted water service in the event of a strong El Niño after expanding its water sources and treatment capacity in recent years.

MWC said its water supply system has shifted from relying largely on Angat Dam to a more diversified portfolio that includes Laguna Lake, the Tayabasan Weir, and the Upper Wawa Dam. The company said the improvements were made following the water shortages experienced during previous El Niño events in 2010, 2015, and 2019, when Metro Manila’s water supply depended heavily on Angat Dam. During the 2019 water crisis, prolonged dry weather and

at Angat Dam and La Mesa Reservoir led to widespread service interruptions across parts of Metro Manila, highlighting the need for additional water sources.

MWC said its current production capacity has increased to about 1,730 million liters per day (MLD), up from 1,465 MLD in 2019.

The company said its diversified supply now includes the 110-MLD Cardona Water Treatment Plant and the 50-MLD East Bay Water Treatment Plant Phase 1, both drawing raw water from Laguna Lake, as well as the 80-MLD Calawis Water Treatment Plant supplied by the Tayabasan Weir. It added that the Upper Wawa Dam now serves as a buffer water source for its East Zone concession and has the capacity to deliver up to 710 MLD. The facility has been augmenting supply to the Calawis treatment plant when water levels at the Tayabasan Weir fall below normal operating levels.

WATER SOURCE.

Manila Water o cials discuss the company’s water supply outlook during a media brie ng in Quezon City on Tuesday. The utility says it expects to maintain a 24/7 water supply in the East Zone despite El Niño, citing new water sources. Manny Palmero

Envoy to Vatican Lotilla presents credentials

By Katrina Manubay

PHILIPPINE Ambassador to the Holy See Raphael Perpetuo M. Lotilla formally presented his credentials to Pope Leo XIV on July 1, officially assuming his post as the Philippines’ representative to the Vatican.

According to a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) media release, the credential ceremony was held at the Apostolic Palace, where Lotilla presented his letters of credence and the letter of recall of his predecessor during an audience with the Pope.

“The Holy Pontiff then proceeded to his private office for a tête-à-tête with the ambassador, who conveyed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s best wishes to Pope Leo. They also discussed substantive matters concerning relations and engagements between the Philippines and the Holy See,” the DFA said.

The department said Lotilla was received by Archbishop Peter Rajič, Prefect of the Papal Household, together with Monsignor Luis Rodrigo Ewart and Vice Regent F. Edward Daniang Daleng.

After Lotilla introduced members of the Philippine Embassy and exchanged the traditional baciamano (hand-kissing gesture) with Pope Leo XIV, the Pope blessed the ambassador and his delegation, the DFA said.

The Pope also presented each member of the delegation with a limitededition official medal commemorating the first year of his papacy.

Describing the ceremony, the DFA said: “As is customary for such state occasions, the Vatican’s Gentleman of His Holiness, represented by Mr. Corrado Ruggieri, escorted the ambassador from the embassy, accompanied by the Papal Household and a delegation to the Apostolic Palace.” Before his appointment as ambassador, Lotilla served as Energy secretary from 2022 to 2025, a position he also held during the Macapagal-Arroyo administration.

In May, President Marcos Jr. appointed Lotilla secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, succeeding Toni Yulo-Loyzaga, before designating him as ambassador to the Holy See.

AGRI-FAIR. Handcrafted Batanes products made from indigenous forest plants and vines are showcased at the agri-fair during the 243rd Batanes Foundation Day celebration. Dave Leprozo

HOLY SEE ENVOY. Philippine Ambassador to the Holy See Raphael Lotilla (left) presents his credentials to Pope Leo XIV at the Apostolic Palace on July 1. DFA

Most Pinoys favor bike lanes—survey

‘VALOR’ FOR VETERANS. Defense Secretary Gilberto

DND

ANEW Pulse Asia survey has revealed that 94 percent of Filipinos agree with proposals to construct safer and wider bicycle lanes and walkways.

The survey findings highlighted a severe disconnect between public demand and state policy, framing what advocates for cycling, walking, and other forms of active transport called the “94 percent Paradox.”

Convenors of the Mobility Awards pointed out that while 94 percent of Filipino households do not own cars, citing a 2022 Social Weather Stations study/

The national budget allocated to active transport infrastructure has suffered a 94 percent decline over the last four years, dropping from P2 billion in 2022 to P105 million in 2026.

“The 94 percent carless majority has spoken, and our leaders must step up to protect them. First, the President must declare active transport an economic and labor priority in his upcoming State of the Nation Address. Second, Congress must reverse years of fiscal neglect and lock in a minimum P1 billion budget for active transport in 2027. Lastly, local governments must deploy their own funds to build interconnected networks for active transport,” said Amber Garma, national coordinator for the Mobility Awards.

“For the majority of our workforce, walking and cycling are not lifestyle choices—they are financial lifelines. Active transport keeps money in workers’ pockets and drives daily productivity. Yet we are stuck in a paradox where funding and infrastructure are designed to protect only the 6% who own cars,” Garma added.

Results of the survey conducted last May 23-26 indicated that the people envision a seamless integration of active transport and mass transit. Massive support for safer bike lanes and walkways (94 percent) is virtually matched by the demand for expanded public transport lanes (93 percent), and further backed by calls for transit subsidies (82 percent). This highlights a clear desire among Filipinos for a connected network where walking, cycling, and commuting work together. Conversely, maintaining the policy of prioritizing private vehicles received the lowest level of public agreement at 72 percent,” the group said in a statement.

The Mobility Awards recognizes outstanding champions of active transport across the Philippines. It is convened by the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, MNL Moves, The Climate Reality Project Philippines, 350 Pilipinas, and Pinay Bike Commuter in partnership with local active transport organizations nationwide.

DND reaffirms pledge to enhance medical services for veterans

By Rex Espiritu

DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teo -

doro Jr. reaffirmed the Department of National Defense (DND) commitment to expanding healthcare services for Filipino veterans in remarks during the Veterans Access to Lifetime Optimized Healthcare (VALOR) Program first-year observance at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC).

Teodoro emphasized the need to bring quality healthcare closer to veterans, particularly those living outside Metro Manila, as part of the government’s longterm commitment to those who served the country.

“You are caring for 400,000 people. I think the government can do that on its own without outsourcing… We can do that on our own and it should be done on our own,” he said. The Defense chief likewise reaffirmed

his commitment to sustaining the program’s growth by ensuring continued government support for its implementation and expansion.

“I will continue to fight for, and to support the budget and the resources and the growth plan that we have all agreed with, of the VMMC together with the VALOR program. It needs commitment. It needs steadfastness. And it needs purpose,” Teodoro added.

The VALOR Program is part of the

Department’s broader efforts to strengthen veterans’ welfare by improving access to quality healthcare services. Since its launch in 2025, the program has expanded its reach through the establishment of VALOR Clinics in Fort Andres Bonifacio, Taguig City, and Basilio Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas, providing specialized medical services to veterans and their dependents in Southern Metro

PNP joins hands with Norway police to go after transnational sex offenders

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday stepped up its campaign against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) by strengthening intelligence-sharing with the Norwegian Police Service and directing police units nationwide to maximize the new partnership in running after transnational offenders.

The move follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on July 2 between PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. and Norwegian Deputy Police Commissioner Lars Erik Alfheim.

The agreement expands cooperation between the two police organizations by allowing broader information sharing to identify offenders, rescue victims, and investigate cross-border OSAEC cases.

It also builds on the work of the Nordic Liaison Office which has supported joint operations since 2020.

Following the signing of the agreement, Nartatez directed the Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC), the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), and all PNP regional units to strengthen monitoring and immediately act on intelligence obtained through international cooperation.

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THE city government of Manila on Monday opened the newly-renovated San Nicolas Health Center in Binondo for improved public health delivery.

“We promised you to rebuild this for 6 months and today is the 5th month. We are ahead by 1 month,” said Mayor Francisco Moreno Domagoso, sometimes referred to as Yorme, during the inaugural ceremony.

“If we have a better frontline facility and community-based healthcare facility, we can have more time and efforts to extend assistance to those in dire need of medical and healthcare services,” he added.

Domagoso vowed to continue to renovate and build health centers in the capital city as well as the installation of necessary medical equipment to strengthen public health service. Pot Chavez

Yorme launches newly refurbished health hub DOJ complex breaks ground in Lanao town

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) will construct a multi-purpose building complex in Kakai Renabor, Tubod, Lanao del Norte to enhance work efficiency in Northern Mindanao. Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida led the groundbreaking ceremony on July 3, reaffirming the DOJ’s commitment to improve service delivery.

“May this building forever stand as a symbol of what is possible when [the] government works as one — guided by integrity, united by purpose, and committed to serving the Filipino people,” he said.

The facility will serve as a modern and functional workplace for DOJ offices in the province, expanding access to justice to the locals. Pot Chavez

DENR, partners plant 200 saplings in Subic

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), together with partner organizations, planted 200 native tree seedlings in Subic, Zambales to strengthen long-term reforestation efforts and support the restoration of degraded forestlands. The tree planting activity, led by the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Olongapo City, was conducted within a 69-hectare National Greening Program site in Barangay Cawag.

CENRO Olongapo City chief Edward Sernadilla said the activity formed part of the rehabilitation of an awarded Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) area through the establishment of indigenous tree species that are well-suited to the local ecosystem.

Meanwhile, DENR regional executive director Ralph Pablo emphasized that planting native tree species helps restore biodiversity, improve watershed functions, and enhance the resilience of forest ecosystems while promoting the sustainable community-managed forestlands. Butch Gunio

Teodoro Jr. and Veterans Memorial Medical Center director Dr. Peter Paul Galvez lead the first anniversary celebration of Veterans Access to Lifetime Optimized Healthcare or VALOR that reaffirms the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare services and enhancing access to quality medical care for Filipino veterans and their dependents.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

OPINION

Sara in the dock

THE impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte started on Monday, July 6, with her lead counsel saying that since she was elected into office in 2022 with more than 30 million votes, or more than that of winning presidential bet Ferdinand Marcos Jr., then she deserves to stay on as the second highest elective official and complete her term.

This inflated sense of entitlement despite the serious allegations of wrongdoing against her contained in four Articles of Impeachment now up for deliberation and decision by the Senate acting as an impeachment court tells us one thing: that she considers herself above the law and looks at those who filed the serious charges against her with utter contempt and derision.

Hence, we are convinced she will not even attend the proceedings and face the charges against her, because, evidently, she will not be able to give intelligent or honest answers to probing questions from prosecutors.

This impeachment trial is much more than a legal proceeding. It is in fact a litmus test of whether the Philippine Constitutional system can effectively hold one of the country’s highest officials accountable. What the trial will determine is whether impeachment remains a credible accountability mechanism.

The Philippines has seen few impeachment trials, and even fewer have resulted in final judgments.

Previous proceedings against presidents, chief justices and other high officials have often been overtaken by political developments rather than resolved strictly on the evidence.

The impeachment case against the Vice President therefore offers an opportunity to demonstrate that the impeachment process can function as the Constitutional remedy intended by the 1987 Constitution instead of a partisan weapon nor as a symbolic exercise.

If the proceedings are orderly, evidencebased and transparent, public confidence in Constitutional institutions could improve regardless of the final verdict.

It should be borne in mind that politics will inevitably influence the proceedings. Impeachment is unique because it is both a legal and political process.

Senators serve as judges, but they are also elected politicians with party affiliations, regional constituencies and future electoral ambitions.

No doubt, many observers will closely watch whether senators appear to evaluate documentary evidence and witness testimony independently or whether voting patterns largely follow political alliances.

Since Duterte remains a highly influential political figure and a declared presidential aspirant for 2028, every major procedural ruling and every eventual vote will inevitably be interpreted through both legal and political lenses.

We believe that transparency will matter as much as the verdict.

One encouraging feature is that the proceedings are expected to be open to the public. Hence, extensive media coverage allows Filipinos to observe not only the evidence but also how senator-judges conduct themselves.

Ordinary citizens will be able to evaluate whether objections are properly ruled upon, whether witnesses are treated fairly, and whether both prosecution and defense

receive due process.

This transparency is itself an important accountability mechanism.

The legitimacy of the trial will depend on the quality of the evidence presented.

The prosecution carries the burden of proving the impeachment charges. The defense, on the other hand, has indicated that it is prepared to challenge both the factual allegations and the legal basis of the charges.

The credibility of the Senate trial will depend on whether its eventual judgment clearly explains how the evidence supports or weakens the constitutional grounds for impeachment.

A decision that appears carefully reasoned is more likely to command public respect than one perceived as purely political.

What will this latest impeachment trial will do for our political system is to shape future standards of accountability.

If the proceedings are orderly, evidencebased and transparent, public confidence in Constitutional institutions could improve regardless of the final verdict

Whatever the outcome, the precedent will extend beyond the Vice President herself. If senators demonstrate that even one of the country’s most powerful officials must answer publicly for alleged misconduct, future public officials may become more conscious that constitutional accountability mechanisms can function effectively.

On the other hand, if the proceedings are widely viewed as driven primarily by political bargaining or partisan considerations, public cynicism toward impeachment could deepen.

Future Congresses could therefore find it even more difficult to convince citizens that impeachment serves the rule of law rather than political expediency.

The most important question now is not simply whether Sara Duterte is convicted or acquitted.

Rather, it is whether the process convinces Filipinos that constitutional institutions are capable of examining allegations against senior officials fairly, independently and according to law.

In fact, the impeachment trial is a referendum not only on the vice president’s conduct but also on the maturity of Philippine democratic institutions.

We see two indicators measures of success in this process.

One is whether the proceedings will strengthen public confidence that no public official, however high up in the political system, is beyond constitutional scrutiny.

Another is whether accountability in this country depends on evidence, due process and institutional integrity rather than solely on political convenience.

Wil the senator-judges be able to achieve both? Let’s wait and see.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Mea maxima culpa

GRIEF unfolds in stages. First comes disbelief: the mind struggles to hold what it has seen. Then comes shock, then anger, then the aching search for an answer.

In time, grief brings us to the question that carries the greatest weight: What will we do with this sorrow?

Horror was the first word that came to me on Monday, June 22, as news of gunfire inside San Jose National High School spread across Tacloban.

A school carries the promise of learning, friendship, discovery, and a future opening before young lives. That morning, fear entered those halls. Students sought cover, called for help, and held one another. Three young lives ended far too soon. In the days since, our city has carried sorrow in its homes, churches, classrooms, and conversations.

The families of those who died carry a pain beyond language. The students who survived carry memories that require patience, care, and healing. In every Taclobanon’s grief lies a question: who bears responsibility?

Justice begins with a serious and thor-

ough investigation. It must establish the facts, identify every source of accountability, and address every lapse that placed children in danger.

—“—

Let Tacloban become known for a community that chooses, every day, to form young people in dignity, protect them with vigilance, and love them with a courage that endures

It must reach the individuals found responsible, the failures in security, the pathways that gave young people access to weapons, and every duty left unmet. The law must serve the truth. It must also serve the families whose lives have been changed forever.

Opening statements

THE long-awaited start of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte held an equal amount of promise and threat.

One of the first matters to be settled was the designation of the Presiding Officer. It took humility on the part of Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian to acknowledge that someone else, in this case a lawyer steeped in procedure, would do a better job at presiding over the trial. This was, after all, a matter that had been settled last month through an amendment of the rules.

The highlights of Day One were the opening statements of both the prosecution and the defense. Rep. Gerville Luisto spoke clearly about how impeachment, often derided as being far removed from the day-today struggle of the ordinary Filipino, was in fact intimately linked to it.

In plain language, she illustrated how the ordinary wage earner, or overseas Filipino worker, or teacher mired in debt, in fact had their most basic interests at stake in this trial. It is, after all, the taxes they pay that have been blatantly misused by an official whom the nation trusted

enough to vote into high office. She pleaded with the senatorjudges to look into the evidence and not be blinded by politics or loyalty.

May our next democratic decisions be guided by what we see unfold in the Senate

Meanwhile, her counterpart, defense lawyer Sheila Sison, said that the prosecution was out to oust an official who was voted by a staggering 32 million Filipinos in 2022. It was a clear mandate, she insisted. But we insist, and with emphasis: that kind of mandate, precisely, is not an insurance for invincibility or scrutiny. It is, instead, a compelling reason to subject oneself to higher standards in public office.

Amid all these, the public official in question continues to refuse to show up. On Monday, she chose instead to attend a planning session for a coming typhoon – an important meeting, certainly, but one she could have postponed for another few hours.

Refusing to let go of the limelight, the brother-and-sister tandem of Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano did everything they could to make their presence felt. They held up the proceedings for over an hour, talking over their colleagues, disrupting the process, and acting out of order. The opening act for what is expected to be a months-long fixation warns us against a few things: Allowing blind loyalties to cloud judgment. Being driven by sheer desire to stay relevant. Bending logic to accommodate twisted narratives. Playing victim when pushed to the wall. May the senator-judges be endowed with clear minds and colorblind eyes, may the public recognize the superiority of evidence, and may our next democratic decisions be guided by what we see unfold in the Senate.

Taiwan voters on alert for Chinese meddling after disinformation overseas

HONG KONG – Taiwanese social media is awash with baseless claims that China meddled in recent elections in South Korea, warning of potential interference to come in the self-ruled island’s own polls later this year.

AFP fact-checkers have debunked a slew of disinformation targeting South Korea’s municipal races last month, playing on long-simmering anti-China sentiment to fuel unfounded rumours about hacking and vote-rigging.

The trend shows the speed at which social media speculation from one country can spread to another, fueled by one-click translation tools that make the posts accessible in any language.

Some of the most viral disinformation about South Korea’s election first spread in Korean before being translated to Chinese, where it found a home among Taiwanese netizens concerned about the integrity of their votes in November’s local races.

China claims Taiwan is part of its territory and has threatened to seize it by force, with Beijing ramping up military pressure on the democratic island in recent years.

Eros Lee, a Taipei-based corporate worker who posted several unverified claims of election meddling, said he felt it was important to share them ahead of Taiwan’s vote.

“If we choose to remain silent... that would be the ultimate victory for authoritarian threats,” he told AFP.

Lee, 47, posted a video on Threads of South Korean poll workers adjusting a ballot box seal that he claimed raised “suspicion of procedural unfairness and ballotrigging”.

Local authorities said the footage showed standard security procedures, but Lee stood by sharing it with his 5,000 fol-

Yet the tragedy also calls every one of us to look inward. San Jose National High School now stands before us as a hard mirror. It reflects the kind of culture our children inhabit, the values they absorb, and the wounds that can deepen when adults see pain too late.

First, we must begin with formation.

Children learn from every place that forms them: the home, the classroom, the street, the group chat, the comment section, and the public square. They learn from the language we use when we are angry. They learn from the jokes we allow, the insults we share, and the cruelty we excuse as entertainment.

Every adult shares in the responsibility of shaping young minds, and each environment leaves its mark on who they become. Respect grows when it is modeled consistently, especially in moments of conflict.

From formation must follow fortification.

Every school deserves strong and dependable safeguards: alert and properly

lowers, saying he would not exclude the possibility of “systematic deception”.

Ballot paper shortages at scores of polling stations fuelled suspicions among some over South Korea’s early voting system and claims that voters had been deprived of their right to vote.

The uproar prompted the country’s top election official to resign.

—“—

China claims Taiwan is part of its territory and has threatened to seize it by force

Protests continued, along with a weekslong blockade of a Seoul ballot-counting centre.

Scores of Taiwanese social media users also joined an online chorus calling for a new vote in South Korea.

‘Anxiety about China’ Rumors of Chinese meddling have long featured in South Korean politics.

Following the botched 2024 martial law attempt, some right-wing forums amplified unsubstantiated claims alleging Chinese interference in South Korea’s electoral system.

In the wake of last month’s polls, farright groups angered by the ruling Democratic Party’s victories nationwide fanned long-running conspiracy theories about China.

Yang Chien-hao, a Taiwanese journalist covering South Korea, cited one claim picked up by Taiwan news outlets that voting centers used Huawei servers.

An official investigation found that rumour stemmed from an election ob-

trained personnel, secure entry points, clear emergency protocols, trusted reporting channels, counselors who are present and accessible, and a culture that responds early to bullying, distress, and isolation.

Safety requires preparation. It requires leadership that acts before warning signs become emergencies. It requires institutions that treat every child as a life entrusted to their care.

And we must remain in fidelity to the values we claim.

Our appeal for accountability among the young gains moral force when it stands alongside an equally firm rejection of corruption, cruelty, and violence among adults. Young people watch what we reward.

They see public figures humiliate opponents, hear loud voices glorify rage, and observe the ease with which dignity can be set aside for attention or power.

Violence often gathers over time through bullying, isolation, untreated trauma, neglect, and missed opportunities for intervention. A society that honors life

server who reportedly named their mobile hotspot after the Chinese technology giant during local polls in 2025.

The National Election Commission has clarified that vote-counting systems use a wired network that is not connected to the internet.

Claire Chen Wei-Ting, editor-in-chief of the nonprofit Taiwan FactCheck Center, said that in the past, falsehoods mostly circulated among niche groups or influencers with political agendas.

“But unexpectedly, the controversy over South Korea’s local elections spread quickly to Taiwan this time, and it was driven by the premise of ‘Chinese interference in the election’,” she said.

“It echoes Taiwanese society’s resistance to and anxiety about China”. Taipei has repeatedly warned of a growing threat from Chinese espionage, disinformation and cyberattacks.

‘Influenced by misinformation’ Hung Chen-ling, a professor who researches disinformation at National Taiwan University, said the South Korean elections were ripe for Taiwanese voters to project their own political anxieties about the island democracy’s fate. She pointed to domestic concerns about absentee voting, a system available in South Korea and floated by Taiwan’s Kuomintang party, which favours closer ties with China, and its allies in the opposition.

Some worry the system “could lead to ghost voters, significant vote-rigging or increase opportunities for fraud,” Hung said.

Unlike South Korea, Taiwan does not have absentee voting, and voters generally must cast ballots in person at the polling station associated with their household registration. AFP

must honor it everywhere.

Fifteen-year-old Chriz Lorenz Fabian gave our city an image of courage that will remain with us. In the midst of panic, he acted to protect his classmates.

Jesus Christ taught that the greatest love lays down its life for friends. Chriz showed us that love has the power to rise even in the darkest hour. His sacrifice asks something of us: greater respect, greater responsibility, greater courage, and greater love.

For the children we lost, for those who survived, and for every student returning to class with a heavier heart, we must speak with humility: mea culpa, mea culpa, mea maxima culpa.

Grief becomes worthy of the lives we mourn when it leads to conversion. Let justice honor the dead. Let care surround the wounded.

Let action secure every school. And let Tacloban become known for a community that chooses, every day, to form young people in dignity, protect them with vigilance, and love them with a courage that endures.

Russian strikes kill 26 in Kyiv on eve of NATO summit

KYIV – Russia fired missiles and drones into apartment buildings in Kyiv for the second time in a week Monday, killing at least 26 people on the eve of a crucial NATO summit, Ukrainian authorities said.

The attack hit just days after another Russian strike killed more than 30 people in the Ukrainian capital.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy decried the “brutal strike”, saying that “the Russians’ tactics are unchanged: to inflict as much pain and dam-

age as possible on Ukrainians and on Ukraine.”

In the northeastern city of Sumy, Russian drone strikes killed two people on Monday, the Ukrainian regional military administration said.

Zelenskyy -- expected to hold talks with US counterpart Donald Trump at the NATO summit in Turkey -- pleaded for the alliance to boost Ukraine’s air defense against Russia’s ballistic missiles.

He said Kyiv was successful in shooting down drones and cruise missiles but had “not enough means of defense” against hard-to-intercept bal-

listic missiles.

“It is simply absurd that in the modern world, production has still not been organized to the extent that is necessary to protect people from ballistic terror,” he said in the aftermath of the strikes.

He said Kyiv expected “decisions” on Ukrainian air defense at the NATO summit in Turkey.

Earlier, NATO chief Mark Rutte said in Ankara: “Allies and NATO partners must continue to ensure Ukraine gets what it needs.” AFP

Race to recover bodies ahead of Venezuela quake cleanup

CARABALLEDA, Venezuela – The international rescue teams are packing up and heavy excavators are clearing rubble left by Venezuela’s earthquakes.

But for Raul Alvarado the search goes on.

Watching volunteers pick through the crushed remains of his 12-story apartment building, Alvarado knows his mother, father and older brother are inside.

Their third-floor apartment now sits at eye level, crushed under piles of concertinaed concrete slabs from the OPP 26 building in coastal Caraballeda, one of the districts hardest hit by the quakes.

The death toll from Venezuela’s twin earthquakes has risen to 3,535, with more than 16,700 injured in the disaster, according to updated official figures released on Monday.

ple may still be unaccounted for. Many of the survivors are living in temporary camps on the street, in public parks or car parks. As focus shifts from rescuing survivors to burying the dead and clearing the debris, international rescue teams have begun leaving Venezuela.

Families meanwhile continue to search for their dead in the hope of giving them a dignified burial.

On Sunday, authorities began burying dozens of unidentified victims in a mass grave.

A line of simple white crosses with small bouquets at their foot marked a long row of individual graves in La Esperanza cemetery in La Guaira. Each one had the same date of death: June 24, 2026.

Twelve days after the quakes hit, time is running short.

Diggers are already clearing parts of the OPP complex, shaking the ruins even as volunteers and families continue to burrow for the bodies of loved ones.

The massive June 24 earthquakes flattened entire neighborhoods in La Guaira state north of the capital Caracas, and thousands are still reported missing.

The government said 16,740 people were injured in the powerful back-to-back shocks and that over 17,000 were left homeless.

The government has not given a figure for those still missing under mountains of rubble, but the UN estimates that as many as 50,000 peo-

“They were together the three of them, hugging,” said Alvarado of the last moment he saw his family.

He managed to pull himself out of the rubble because he was in a different room.

“This building was full. My neighbor had five grandchildren, all them are trapped in there.”AFP

The

temperature over both land and ocean areas in 2025 was about 0.37C above the 1991 to 2020 average.

“For many countries and territories in the southwest Pacific, the ocean is central to livelihoods, economies and resilience,” said WMO chief Celeste Saulo.

“In 2025, the region experienced warming oceans, rising sea levels, marine heatwaves and ocean acidification, alongside tropical cyclones and the continued loss of tropical glacier ice.” AFP

Over

GENEVA – More than 500 people have now died in the Ebola outbreak gripping the Democratic Republic of Congo, World Health Organization figures showed Monday.

A newly updated count issued by the UN health agency showed that there have been 1,561 confirmed cases in the DR Congo since the outbreak was declared in mid-May, including 506 confirmed deaths.

Two others have also died in neighboring Uganda, where the situation is more stable. The country has seen 16 patients recover out of 20 total confirmed cases.

The WHO’s figures for the DRC, which come from the health authorities in the vast country, show that the outbreak there has a case fatality rate of 32 percent.

A total of 254 patients have recovered, while 354 suspected cases of the viral haemorrhagic fever are currently under investigation.

The outbreak in northeastern DRC has hit four provinces but is heavily centred in Ituri province.

The outbreak is being driven by the rare Bundibugyo species of Ebola, for which there are no approved vaccines or treatments.

The trial of two potential treatments for Bundibugyo began in the DRC on Thursday. AFP

WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

Corpus fires a 67, forces 3-way tie for Pradera lead

LUBAO, Pampanga—Carl Corpus made an emphatic return to the Philippine Golf Tour, turning a late burst of birdies into a five-under 67 to force a three-way tie for the lead with Zanieboy Gialon and Russell Bautista as the ICTSI Pradera Verde Championship erupted into a low-scoring shootout at the Pradera Verde Golf and Country Club’s Arayat course on Tuesday.

Corpus looked headed for an ordinary start after birdie-bogey start from No. 1. But a birdie on the seventh sparked a remarkable turnaround as he caught fire with six birdies over a sevenhole, spiked by a five-birdie spree from No. 9, transforming an even-par round into one of the tournament’s three best opening efforts.

“I don’t think I did anything differently. The putts just dropped, and I’m fortunate they did,” said Corpus, who struggled to joint 37th place at Caliraya Springs before skipping the Pinewoods leg.

He later admitted he initially underestimated the course’s scoring potential.

“At first, I didn’t think the course was scoreable, but after today, I realized that if you stay patient and make your putts, you can definitely score here,” he said.

He also praised the course conditions, particularly the greens.

“The greens are in excellent shape, and I hit my approach shots close,” said Corpus, whose five straight birdies came from an average distance of 12 feet. “I haven’t putted on greens this good in a while, so I was excited to be out there.”

With an early three-way battle unfolding, Corpus said he won’t change his approach over the next three rounds.

By Jeremiah Sevilla

FILIPINA tennis

star Alexandra

“Alex” Eala may have fallen short of a Wimbledon quarterfinal berth, but she won the hearts of tennis fans around the world with her fearless campaign as she takes plenty of positives from her historic run in the Wimbledon Championships 2026.

Eala, who became the first Filipino to earn a Grand Slam singles seeding at 29th, bowed out of the fourth round of Wimbledon following a hard-fought 4-6, 6-4, 3-6 loss to 13th seed Jasmine Paolini of Italy on Monday night (Philippine time).

“There are so many positives. Well, one I think is how I’ve handled pressure,” the world No. 32 Eala said in the post-match presser after the Round of 16 thriller against the No. 17 Paolini that lasted for more than two hours.

“Of course, the more you want to win, I think the more pressure goes along with that. I’m happy with how

Eala loses Wimby, but wins hearts

I faced it head-on. I think I kept cool when I needed to control my emotions,” she added.

Phillips silver lining for Gilas vs. Australia

MIKE Phillips emerged as a silver lining in Gilas Pilipinas’ 49-92 blowout loss at the hands of Australia in the final game of the first round of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

Phillips showed why he is dubbed “Motor Mike” at the RAC Arena in Perth on Monday night, providing the energy Gilas badly needed as it played without naturalized player Justin Brownlee, who sat out the game due to hamstring strain and multiple leg injuries.

The 6-foot-7 athletic forward hauled down a game-high 14 rebounds to go with six points, one block, and one steal in 24 minutes of action to cap off his impressive first tour of duty for the Philippines in a FIBA tournament.

“He was one of the bright lights for us tonight. He was doing great, especially in the first half. He was rebounding

the heck out of the ball and he’s just playing,” Gilas head coach Tim Cone said of the former UAAP MVP.

“His nickname is ‘Motor Mike’ and there’s a reason for that. He plays with such a tremendous motor. He’s all over the floor,” Cone added.

Phillips came up big after tallying two points, three boards, and a steal in the Nationals’ 102-106 doubleovertime defeat to New Zealand last Friday. While the numbers didn’t reflect his game, he was making hustle plays and setting up solid screens in his first FIBA-sanctioned game against the Tall Blacks.

The 24-year-old standout out of La Salle continued to perk up the Filipino cagers against the world-ranked No. 6 Boomers despite playing through an ankle injury he sustained in one of their tune-up games.

“He got hurt in one of our friendlies coming into this game. So, he’s playing with a gimpy ankle and then he got hit by cramps late in the game, so we couldn’t keep him on the floor,” Cone explained.

With the energetic playstyle he displayed in the third window, Phillips is expected to remain as a crucial cog in Gilas as it continues its bid to qualify for next year’s World Cup.

“He’s a young guy and he plays with just so much enthusiasm. He’s very, very infectious, and tonight it was less visible because of the score,” Cone said.

“But I think that’s just something that especially our fans are going to really appreciate as we move forward, watching him play with that kind of effort, and watching the other guys get infected by it and continuing to play.” Jeremiah Sevilla

6-1, 6-2 victory over Mexico’s Renata Zarazua before notching a 3-6, 6-2, 6-0 comeback win against Australia’s Maya Joint in the second round.

The 21-year-old Pinay ace then delivered the biggest victory of her career by ousting defending champion and No. 3 Iga Swiatek of Poland under the Centre Court spotlight, 7-6 (11-9), 6-2, to emerge as the first Filipino to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon.

In another Centre Court match witnessed by a packed crowd that included tennis legends Roger Federer and Billie Jean King, Eala battled back to force a deciding set and stayed toeto-toe with Paolini before the more experienced Italian pulled away in the endgame.

Eala had nothing but praise for Paolini, who made a return trip to the Wimbledon quarterfinals after a runner-up finish in 2024 and winning the French doubles title last year.

Late birdie surge lifts Constantino to joint lead with Bisera

LUBAO, Pampanga—Harmie

Constantino unleashed another trademark finishing kick, birdieing four of her last seven holes to deliver a three-under 69 and force a tie with the steady Yvon Bisera at the start of the ICTSI Pradera Verde Championship here on Tuesday.

Constantino looked headed for another slow start after bogeys on Nos. 3 and 6 erased an opening-hole birdie, but the Caliraya Springs champion caught fire on the back nine. She birdied Nos. 12 and 13 before closing with another back-to-back birdie run from No. 16 for a 32 and catch Bisera at the top.

Bisera, meanwhile, put together the steadiest round on a hot, humid day. She snapped a run of pars with birdies Nos. 9, 11 and 14, threatening to pull away before settling for a 35-34 card and a share of the lead. One stroke behind at 70 was

Chihiro Ikeda, who also produced a late charge, birdieing two of her last five holes to stay within striking distance heading into the second round.

Pinewoods leg champion Chanelle Avaricio likewise remained firmly in contention despite an early stumble. After a bogey on the sixth, she responded with birdies on Nos. 13 and 18 to save a 71 and keep her bid for back-to-back titles alive in the P750,000 fourth leg of the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour.

“I didn’t really hit a lot of greens on the front nine, but I made up for it with birdies on the back,” said Constantino, who birdied four of her last six holes, all from inside 10 feet.

“I didn’t get off to a good start, so I wasn’t expecting to score well because I wasn’t making birdies in the opening holes,” she said after overcoming a sluggish start, the sweltering heat and

Biado wins Indonesia Open crown

By Randy M. Caluag

WORLD champion Carlo Biado staged a dramatic comeback to defeat fellow Filipino Paolo Gallito, 10-9, and capture the 2026 Predator Indonesia International Open title, becoming the third straight Filipino to win the tournament.

Biado appeared headed for defeat after Gallito moved within a rack of the title at 9-8 and was poised to seal the match. But Gallito scratched after pocketing the 8-ball with only the 10-ball remaining, handing Biado an opening that the veteran cue artist capitalized on to force a decider before completing the comeback.

The victory earned Biado the $25,000 top prize and extended the Philippines’ dominance of the tournament following the triumphs of Jeffrey Ignacio in 2024 and Sean Mark Malayan in 2025.

Biado reached the championship match after defeating fellow Filipino Bernie Regalario, 10-6, in the semifinals. He opened his campaign with victories over Alexis Ferrer, 10-4, Indonesia’s Rizky, 10-3, Jeff Roda, 103, and Jonas Magpantay, 10-7, in the quarterfinals to set up an all-Filipino semifinal.

The title served as another boost for Biado ahead of his defense of the Asian Pool Championship crown, which begins this week in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Sunrise Sprint opens bigger triathlon dreams

late-afternoon gusts.

“It was really hot throughout the day, although the wind picked up over the last couple of holes, which made the course a lot tougher,” added Constantino, who rallied in the final to tie for second with Tiffany Lee at Pinewoods last week.

Despite the challenging conditions, Constantino stayed patient and capitalized on her opportunities down the stretch, putting herself in prime position heading into the final 36 holes. Looking ahead to a second-round duel with Bisera, the multi-titled former Order of Merit champion said she intends to stick to a simple game plan.

“I’ll just enjoy my game, stay patient and try to hit as many fairways as I can,” said Constantino, who believes consistency off the tee will be key in the last two rounds.

without the extensive preparation required for longer races, while also providing seasoned athletes with an ideal platform to sharpen their form or reignite their competitive drive. Its continued inclusion in the 5150 Bohol program reflects the organizers’ commitment to growing the sport from the grassroots level. For many participants, the Sunrise Events, Inc.organized event is more than a race – it is the launching pad toward greater ambitions, serving as their first step toward tackling longer-distance events and chasing podium finishes in major triathlon competitions across the country.

Over the years, the Sunrise Sprint has helped bridge the gap between recreational fitness events and fullfledged triathlon competition. It offers participants the complete raceday experience – from open-water swimming and transition zones to championship-level race organization –building both confidence and valuable racing experience for future challenges.

Carlo Biado

Eala indeed showed pure grit and composure throughout her Wimbledon stint. She opened with a dominant

Carl Corpus catches re with six birdies over a seven-hole, spiked by a ve-birdie spree from No. 9, transforming an even-par round into one of the tournament’s

three best opening e orts. Manny Marcelo

Alexandra Eala AFP

Mike Phillips FIBA

Harmie Constantino

IN BRIEF

6.4% 6.8% 4.8%

in June 2026 Inflation in May 2026 Inflation in first half

Inflation softened to 6.4% in June

By Thony Rose Lesaca

INFLATION slowed to 6.4 percent in June from 6.8 percent in May, as

The average inflation rate stood at 4.8 percent as of end-June, PSA said.

The June print was higher than the 1.4 percent rate recorded in the same month last year.

The PSA attributed the decline to softer transport inflation on lower gasoline and diesel prices. The transport index fell to 12.8 percent in June from 16.2 percent in May. Prices of food and non-alcoholic

PAL increases Japan, Australia flights

beverages rose 5.2 percent, slower than the 5.7 percent increase in May, further pulling down overall inflation.

Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy items, rose to 4.4 percent in June from 4.1 percent in May.

Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said easing inflation pressures reflect improving global conditions and the impact of

coordinated government measures.

“Every percentage point drop in inflation matters to Filipino families. It means household budgets can go further, especially for poor families who spend a large share of their income on food and transportation,” he said.

Balisacan said reducing losses from weather disturbances and other supply disruptions remains one of the most effective ways to protect consumers and producers from future price shocks.

DEPDev said the government is implementing the El Niño Food Security Action Plan, with a total allocation of P26.13 billion. The agency added that the Philippine and Japanese governments are also pushing for a national strategic

Pag-IBIG

Fund offers promo rates, raises loan ceiling to protect borrowers

PAG-IBIG Fund is keeping mortgage rates as low as 3 percent and raised its maximum housing loan amount to P10 million, an effort officials say will keep homeownership within reach as commercial lending rates climb. The state-run pension and housing fund is acting on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to widen access to housing finance under the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program, known as Expanded 4PH, officials said.

petroleum reserve to buffer against geopolitical disruptions and extreme price volatility.

Moody’s Analytics associate economist Eugene Tan said the second straight monthly decline in inflation suggests price pressures peaked in April, though he noted prices remain elevated across major categories.

“The softer headline figure in June stemmed from easing global oil prices, with progress toward a US-Iran peace deal soothing energy markets. While the moderation raises hopes that inflation has peaked, it remains well above the [Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’] target range, and upside risks from energy prices persist. A rate hike remains a distinct possibility,” Tan said.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

PHILIPPINE energy regulators are approving renewable energy projects more quickly, helping developer PetroGreen Energy Corp. advance wind, solar and battery storage plants in the Visayas and Luzon regions, the company said.

PetroGreen, the renewable energy arm of the Yuchengco Group, said the faster approvals are de-risking the country’s transition to clean energy and building developer confidence in the sector.

PetroGreen assistant vice president for power markets Dave Gadiano said the regulatory shift is critical if the Philippines is to meet its clean energy targets of 35 percent of the generation mix by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.

The rates target borrowers from minimumwage earners to middle-income workers by keeping monthly payments manageable, he said.

“Pag-IBIG’s promo rates are about making homeownership more affordable at a time when many Filipino families are carefully weighing the cost of buying a home,” Aliling said.

“By lowering monthly amortization, we help more workers qualify for home financing, support stronger housing demand and encourage more activity in the housing market,” he said.

Pag-IBIG offers a subsidized rate of 3 percent a year for eligible socialized housing borrowers and promotional rates of 4.5 percent and 5.75 percent a year for low-cost to open-market homes, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling, who also chairs the Pag-IBIG Board of Trustees, said.

Unsold NCR condo units hit record 82,900 RE projects gain momentum on faster approvals

By Jenniffer B. Austria

UNSOLD condominium units in Metro Manila climbed to a record 82,900 in the first half of 2026 as new supply continued to outpace sales despite stronger buyer activity, property consultancy Leechiu Property Consultants (LPC) said Tuesday.

The market now has about 34 months of supply across 616 actively selling condominium buildings, Leechiu Property Consultants director Roy Golez said in a property briefing.

“So this level is actually the highest it’s been since we started tracking in 2016,” Golez said. Golez said he is not too worried about the

“Faster implementation of these policies would significantly help in the development of more renewable energy projects in the country,” Gadiano said.

“It gives a signal to developers that the power industry is well administered,” he said.

Gadiano said key institutions, including the Department of Energy, the Energy Regulatory Commission, the Independent Energy Market Operator of the Philippines and the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines, are working closely with developers to meet timelines, particularly under the state-led Green Energy Auction Program.

The regulatory momentum is already translating into construction and power generation for PetroGreen.

In the Visayas, PetroWind Energy Inc.’s 13.56-megawatt Nabas-2 wind project in Aklan secured its market commercial operation date status from the market operator June 25.

In Luzon, the ERC approved a dedicated, point-to-point grid connection for the 25-megawatt-peak Bugallon solar plant in Pangasinan, owned by PetroGreen subsidiary Bugallon Green Energy Corp. The plant is undergoing testing and commissioning, with commercial operations targeted for August.

The ERC also granted the certificate of compliance for BKS Green Energy Corp.’s 33.831-megawatt-peak Limbauan-2 solar project in Isabela June 8.

MEASURES.

Charlito Martin Mendoza (right) meets

(DOF)

by Undersecretaries Karlo Fermin Adriano (left) and Rolando Ligon Jr.,

NATURE AWARDS. First Balfour Inc., the construction and engineering arm of Lopez-led First Philippine Holdings Corp., reaffirms its commitment to a decarbonized and regenerative future after winning the prestigious Mother Nature Award from the Pollution Control Association of the Philippines Inc. (PCAPI). First Balfour employees (from left) Frefil Mark Benemerito, Angeline Abibuag, Jasmin Jill Dumasig and Antonieto Opelario Jr. proudly display the plaques of recognition, including the prestigious Mother Nature Award, which they received on behalf of the company at the 46th PCAPI National Annual Convention in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF THE

SERVICES

AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES AND SMGP BESS POWER INC. (GAMU BESS), WITH PRAYER FOR THE ISSUANCE OF PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY AND MOTION FOR CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT OF INFORMATION ERC CASE NO. 2026-097 RC

GRID

OF THE PHILIPPINES (NGCP) AND SMGP BESS POWER INC. (SBPI)

NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES:

ERC CASE NO. 2026-097 RC NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING PAGE 2 OF 4

Notice is hereby given that on 01 July 2026, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and SMGP BESS Power Inc. (SBPI) filed an Application dated 25 May 2026, seeking the CommissionÕs approval of their Ancillary Services Procurement Agreement (ASPA), with prayer for the issuance of provisional authority and motion for confidential treatment of information. The docketed copy of the Application, excluding its annexes, is attached as Annex ÒAÓ of the Notice of Virtual Hearing

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

Date and Time Platform Activity

12 August 2026 (Wednesday) at nine oÕclock in the morning (9:00 A.M.) Microsoft Teams

19 August 2026 ( Wednesday) at nine oÕclock in the morning (9:00 A.M.)

Determination of compliance with jurisdictional requirements and Expository Presentation

Pre-Trial Conference and Presentation of Evidence

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

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

1) The petitionerÕs name, mailing address, and e-mail address;

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

3) A statement of the relief desired.

ERC CASE NO. 2026-097 RC NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING

Likewise, all other persons who may want their views known to the Commission with respect to the subject matter of the case may file

PAGE 3 OF 4 through e-mail at docket@erc.ph, copy furnish the Legal Service through legal@erc.ph their Opposition or Comment thereon at least five (5) calendar days prior to the initial virtual hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the ERC Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure. No particular form of Opposition or Comment is required, but the document, letter, or writing should contain the following:

1) The name, mailing address, and e-mail address of the person;

2) A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and 3) The grounds relied upon.

All

ERC CASE NO. 2026-097 RC NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING PAGE 4 OF 4 Finally, all interested persons may be allowed to join the scheduled virtual hearings by providing the Commission, through legal.virtualhearings@erc.ph their respective e-mail addresses, indicating therein the case number of the instant Application Commission will send the access link/s to the aforementioned hearing platform within five (5) working days prior to the scheduled hearings.

by the Commission.

WITNESS, the Honorable Chairperson and CEO FRANCIS

C.

(This space is intentionally left blank.)

PH stocks edge higher as June inflation cools

PHILIPPINE shares ended higher on July 7 as investor sentiment improved after the June inflation rate eased to 6.4 percent from 6.8 percent in May.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index, or PSEi, hit an intraday high of 6,297.46 before closing at 6,247.11, up 23.12 points, or 0.37 percent. The broader all shares index likewise advanced 3.89 points, or 0.12 percent, to 3,392.86.

“Philippine equities notched another gain climbing a modest 0.37 percent to settle at 6,247.11 as investors celebrated the improved June inflation print,” First Metro Securities said. Services led sectoral gainers, climbing 2.76 percent, followed by property, which rose 1.08 percent. Financial stocks also edged up 0.14 percent.

On the other hand, holding firms fell 1.28 percent, while the industrial index declined 0.83 percent. Mining and oil also slipped 0.42 percent.

Value turnover, however, remained thin at P5.33 billion as investors stayed on the sidelines while waiting for more positive catalysts. Foreign investors were net buyers with inflows at P770.47 million.

International Container Terminal Services Inc. was the day’s top index gainer, rising 3.97 percent to P930, while ACEN Corp. was at the bottom, declining 4.36 percent to P3.07.

The peso closed stronger against the U.S. dollar at 61.435 from 61.49 the previous trading day.

Meanwhile, Seoul once again led losses in Asian stocks on Tuesday as chip giant Samsung tumbled despite an eye-watering rise in profit, stoking fears that the record-breaking, AI-fueled rally might have reached the end of the road. Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP

RETAIL PARTNERSHIP.

Gio Gandionco, chief operating officer of Julie’s Franchise Corp., seals a retail electricity partnership with a handshake with Marko Sarmiento, COREnergy vice president and head of operations. Julie’s Bakeshop tapped Vivant Energy Corp.’s retail arm, COREnergy, as its retail electricity supplier for its commissary operations, marking another step in the Cebu-born bakery chain’s move to manage energy more strategically.

Robinsons Retail moves closer to delisting as tender offer ends

By Jenniffer B. Austria

ROBINSONS Retail Holdings Inc. moved a step closer to its planned delisting from the Philippine Stock Exchange after its controlling shareholders secured enough shares through a tender offer to raise their ownership to nearly 100 percent.

In a disclosure July 7, Robinsons Retail said JE Holdings Inc. accepted 229.58 million common shares tendered by minority shareholders during the offer period from May 25 to July. The tendered shares are equivalent to 21.54 percent of the retailer’s

outstanding capital stock.

The tendered shares will be crossed July 13.

Once the block sale is completed, JE Holdings, together with members of the Gokongwei family and other related

PAGCOR SCHOLARSHIP. Around 2,000 students from low-income families in Bulacan will benefit from a P60-million scholarship fund from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR), which released an initial P10-million grant to the provincial government July 6. Alejandro Tengco, PAGCOR chairman and chief executive officer, said during the turnover of the first P10 million at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium that the initiative helps ensure revenues from regulated gaming translate to programs that directly benefit Filipinos.

OF THE numerous tools in the toolkit of a monetary authority, interest rate policy is arguably the most important. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is no exception, and interest rate policy has been the most active component of BSP policymaking in recent years.

The key BSP interest rate is its overnight borrowing rate (OBR). This is the rate on which the banking system bases all each interest rates — the interest rates it charges for its loans and the interest rates it pays its depositors.

The non-bank financial sector also uses the OBR as its benchmark rate. Thus, the OBR has very great significance for the Philippine economy, and movements in the OBR can profoundly impact the course of economic activity in the country.

Expectedly, the BSP embarked on a policy of low and declining interest rates in 2020 to deal with the nearcatastrophic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. It set the OBR on a downward course toward zero to counteract the lockdowns made necessary by the rapid spread of the dreaded virus. As the pandemic waned and economic activity gradually returned to normalcy, BSP reversed policy course and began to raise its basic interest rate.

At its June 18, 2026 meeting the BSP’s policymaking body, the Monetary Board (MB), raised the OBR

by 25 basis points, to 4.75 percent. Most banking industry opinion is to the effect that the BSP has set out to tame inflation in the face of rapid price increases and inflationary trends precipitated by the ongoing turmoil in the world’s energy market. There is a growing belief in banking industry circles that there could be two more OBR increases before end 2026, which would bring that key rate to 5.25 percent. There will be MB meetings in October and December. Interest rate policymaking is very serious business. It is not child’s play. Interest rates policy changes have a profound impact on the three sectors that essentially make up the Philippine economy — the industrial/infrastructure sector, the financial sector and the consumer sector. A wrong interest policy signal from the BSP can generate bad results for any or all of these sectors: industrial/infrastructure operating costs can rise and cause consumer prices to increase, higher financial charges can cause producers to downgrade or defer spending plans and, of course, higher prices can cause consumers to make negative adjustments to reflect their reduced purchasing power.

Although the BSP’s principal statutory responsibility is the maintenance of internal and external monetary stability, it cannot be indifferent to what is happening to the rest of the economy, particularly the level of utilization of

shareholders, will own 1.06 billion Robinsons Retail common shares, representing 99.69 percent of the company’s outstanding capital stock. As a result, Robinsons Retail’s public float will decline to just 0.31 percent, well below the exchange’s minimum public ownership requirement, paving the way for the company’s planned exit from the local bourse.

Robinsons Retail said the next step in the process is to obtain the approval of the PSE for the voluntary delisting of the company’s common shares.

“We are grateful for the trust and support our shareholders have shown RRHI over the years, and for their engagement throughout this process,” said Stanley Co, president and chief executive of Robinsons Retail. “While we embark on a new chapter, our commitment to being the retailer of choice in the Philippines is unchanged. As we look ahead, we remain focused on strengthening our operations, pursuing long-term priorities, and driving sustainable growth.”

The company said the Philippine Competition Commission confirmed the transaction was not subject to compulsory merger notification. Under the deal, minority shareholders were offered the chance to sell their shares to JE Holdings at P48.30 per share, representing a 32.23 percent premium over the company’s one-year volume-weighted average price of P36.5285 as of March 26. Robinsons Retail operates supermarket, department store, convenience store, drugstore, home improvement and specialty retail chains.

In the face of these contrasting economic trends — growing inflation and a perceptively slowing economy — where should the BSP and more specifically the MB, go?

the nation’s productive capacity and the associated levels of employment and underemployment. Although it is perfectly right in striving to attain its 2-to-4 percent inflation target, it has perforce to try and maintain an acceptable balance between the most recent inflation figure of 6.8 percent and the raft of forecast reductions for the Philippine economy’s 2026 growth. In the face of these contrasting economic trends — growing inflation and a perceptively slowing economy — where should the BSP and more specifically the MB, go? Should it fulfill the prognostications of banking industry folk, or should it give its monetarytightening policy a second look?

This is the dilemma facing the highly remunerated MB members during the remainder of 2026. (llagasjessa@yahoo.com)

2026 World

Hokkien Golden Melody

Awards

introduces Hokkien music globally

By Phoebe Kate Angeles

ON JUNE 30, 2026 in Manila, the 2026 World Hokkien Golden Melody and Cross-Strait Hokkien Music Competition launched their global campaign. The launch is in honor of introducing Hokkien Music to the world, promoting cultural exchange, and extending hands with the overseas Chinese community. It is also for the advancement of global development for the Hokkien language music.

This prestigious awards night and competition was held for the first time in the Philippines to recognize artists that use the Hokkien Language in their music. It gathered over 600 guests, such as Philippine’s Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan, Manila’s Mayor Isko Moreno, and Vice Mayor Chi Atienza.

“The purpose of holding this event is to be able to share the Hokkien culture to the world.” said Chen Fei, the Chinese Cultural Ambassador and China’s First Hokkien Singer. Chen Fei added that she took this opportunity to further strengthen the friendship between China and the Philippines.

Aside from Chinese talents, the competition was also open for Filipino talents who are able to sing in Hokkien language. One of them is Xi Mei Ni, a Filipino-Chinese who joined the 2023 World Hokkien Golden Melody Awards Gala where she landed in the top 10. Music is a universal language, whether it be Hokkien or in Filipino, as long as it speaks to the heart. These differences are not a hindrance for cultural exchange and extension to the Chinese community.

A place for every paw at UPLB

By Alex Arceta and DJ Oracion

Photos courtesy of CATS of UPLB

THE University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) is home not only to thousands of students, faculty members, and staff, but also to a thriving population of community cats and dogs that have become part of campus life.

Looking after these animals is the mission of Compassion for Animals Through Service (CATS) of UPLB Students, or CATS of UPLB. They are a volunteer organization composed of students, alumni, and employees dedicated to promoting humane and science-based animal welfare.

Founded in 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization was born from a shared belief that caring for campus animals also means caring for the community they coexist with.

“Ultimately, we want to uphold the peaceful coexistence between humans and animals by recognizing that both have a rightful place

in the environment they share, and that each has a role in maintaining its balance,” said CATS of UPLB Vice President Garnett Co.

At the core of the organization’s advocacy is the promotion of TrapNeuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR), a globally recognized and humane approach to managing stray and feral cat populations. Through TNVR, community animals are safely trapped, spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and returned to their familiar environment, preventing uncontrolled breeding while allowing them to continue living in their territory.

“Naniniwala kami na kapon ang solusyon,” Co explained. “Natutu-

Dink and Drive builds thriving PB community

By Julienne Andrea Chua and Darren Barrientos

WHAT started as a simple invitation to join an open play session has grown into one of Silang, Cavite’s thriving pickleball communities. At Dink and Drive in Buho, players of all ages come together not only to enjoy one of the country’s fastest-growing sports but also to build friendships and find a sense of belonging. Behind Dink and Drive is its owner. Juddie Alegre, who originally came from the food industry. Her introduction to pickleball began when her business partners encouraged her to join an open play. What started as a simple invitation soon turned into a passion, inspiring her to establish a pickleball court alongside her existing business

When Dink and Drive officially opened on February 14, 2026, it welcomed players eager to try the growing sport. Through regular open plays and tournaments, interest continued to grow. What started with one pickleball building has since expanded into two buildings with a total of eight courts, allowing the facility to welcome more players not just from Silang but also from different towns. For Juddie, however, Dink and Drive has always been about more than just pickleball.

“We treat our players like family. Hindi naman po sa sales o income generated umiikot ang Dink and Drive. Every Saturday, nagpapa free open play kami para mas maraming makapaglaro.”

Juddie shared that seeing players from different places

visit the court has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey. While Dink and Drive encourages people to stay active and work toward their fitness goals, it has also become a place where players stay after games to enjoy snacks, catch up with one another, and simply spend time together.

That welcoming environment is something the players themselves have come to appreciate. According to one regular player, Reyneth Malabanan, the people are just as important as the game itself.

“What brings me back here in Dink and Drive is the community. Competitive kami sa laro, pero at the same time, may sportsmanship and bawat player.”

From a single pickleball building to a growing facility with eight courts, Dink and Drive reflects how a shared passion for the sport can bring people together. What began as Juddie Alegre’s simple introduction to pickleball has grown into a welcoming community where players find not only a place to play, but also friendships that keep them coming back.

gunan nito ang issue sa stray animal overpopulation at vacuum effect, at sa paraang humane and scientific.”

Beyond TNVR, CATS of UPLB carries out daily feeding, monitors the campus animal population, facilitates veterinary care, and maintenance of vaccinations and preventive treatments. The organization also actively educates the public through online information campaigns, encouraging responsible pet ownership and greater compassion toward community animals.

While much of its work has focused on the UPLB campus, the organization is gradually expanding its reach to neighboring communities.

Previously, CATS of UPLB partnered with Elbi Community Events as volunteers during monthly lowcost spay and neuter drives. This year, as part of its sixth anniversary celebration in July, the organization will hold its own low-cost kapon event for the first time.

“We want to provide affordable and accessible kapon services to pet owners and animal advocates para mas mapaigting ang adbokasiya namin sa TNVR.,” Co said.

World Robot Olympiad Philippines 2026, where its national champion teams earned the right to represent the country in the international finals in Puerto Rico.

For Co, however, the greatest reward comes from seeing the direct impact of the organization’s work.

“The most rewarding moment ay anytime narerevitalize ang isang animal,” Co shared. “Sobrang nakakataba ng puso makakita ng animal na nagtthrive at masayang nakakapamuhay. It reminds us that our efforts are worth it.”

As CATS of UPLB continues its advocacy, the organization hopes more people will see community animals not as nuisances, but as living beings deserving of compassion. “Sana when we interact with stray animals or if we have pets ourselves, we give them the recognition na they have a life, they deserve love,” Co said. “As humans, tayo ang may kakayahan para sa pagbabago, at para bumoses para sa mga creatures like them.”

To support its mission, CATS of UPLB encourages the public to participate in its anniversary low-cost spay and neuter drive, donate to its initiatives, or consider adopting rescued animals in need of loving homes.

BatStateU-IS robotics teams earn national titles, set sights on

By Sasha Uy

STUDENTS from the Batangas State University Integrated School (BatStateU-IS) will represent the Philippines at the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) International Finals 2026 in Puerto Rico after emerging among the country’s top performers in the 25th World Robot Olympiad Philippines.

BatStateU-IS delivered an impressive showing during the national competition, capturing three national championships, three runner-up finishes, two third-place awards, and several finalist placements across multiple robotics categories—underscoring the school’s growing excellence in robotics, innovation, and STEM education.

Leading the school’s campaign were the national champion teams in Future Engineers – Self-driving Car, RoboSports – Double Tennis, and RoboMission – Junior High School, earning the honor of joining the Philippine Robotics National Team for the international finals in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from Dec. 8 to 10.

Other BatStateU-IS teams also secured podium finishes in Future Engineers, RoboMission, and Future Innovators, demonstrating the depth of

world stage

the school’s robotics program and the dedication of its young innovators. Organized in the Philippines by Felta Multi-Media Inc., the World Robot Olympiad is one of the world’s premier robotics competitions, challenging students to design, build, and program robots while developing critical thinking, creativity, teamwork, and problemsolving skills. This year’s theme, “Robot Meets Culture,” encouraged participants to create robotic solutions that preserve cultural heritage, celebrate diversity, and strengthen communities. Beyond the medals, the competition challenged students to apply engineering concepts, programming skills, and innovation to real-world situations. Months of designing, coding, testing, and refining their robots prepared the teams not only for competition but also for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The achievement reflects BatStateU-IS’s continuing commitment to nurturing future innovators by providing learners with opportunities to excel in robotics and STEM education while competing alongside the country’s best young talents.

Photo opportunity with pickleball players of different ages. Gathered at Dink and Drive, showcasing the sport’s growing appeal across generations.

Frenemy, a beloved campus dog known for riding jeepneys on its own.

Maddy, the resident cat of the College of Development Communication, rests near C-Park on the UPLB campus.

CATS of UPLB joins Elbikon 2026 through a fundraising booth, with proceeds supporting the organization’s initiatives for the welfare of campus cats.

The BatStateU-IS Robotics Team celebrates its strong showing at the 25th

Juddie Alegre, owner of Dink and Drive, shares her vision of building an inclusive community through the fast-growing sport of pickleball.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2026

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

SHOWBIZ

Tate expresses his interest in working in the Philippines and the Thai

Boys’ Love industry

Embracing a multicultural background

actor Tate Myron looks forward to working in the Philippines

THAI - BRITISH actor Tate Myron believes his multicultural upbringing has become one of his greatest strengths that allows him to connect with audiences across Southeast Asia while opening doors to opportunities beyond Thailand.

Speaking with Manila Standard

Entertainment during his brief visit to Manila last month, the 22-yearold actor shared that growing up with British and Thai roots has helped him navigate different cultures with ease.

“One advantage is that I can come to countries like the Philippines and communicate in English while sharing cultural references that we have in common,” Myron shared during his first media interviews in Manila. “Growing up with different cultures has also helped me understand people better.”

His multicultural background also came with hurdles.

“Learning a new language well enough that people believe it’s your first language takes a lot of work,” he added, referring to the years he spent becoming fluent in Thai. Confidence in speaking Thai ultimately transformed his career. Myron began as a runway model before an unexpected encounter led him into acting.

“Once I became confident in speaking Thai, it opened more doors for acting opportunities,” he recalled. “I was walking in a runway show

when a director thought I looked like the character she was casting. She approached me and asked if I’d be interested in auditioning.”

That chance audition marked the beginning of his acting career.“I’m fully an actor now,” he remarked.

Myron currently speaks English, Thai, and Mandarin, with another language already on his wish list.

“Maybe one day I’ll add Tagalog,” he said in jest. “It’s still a work in progress.”

The rising actor also expressed interest in pursuing projects in the Philippines, pointing to similarities between the two entertainment industries.

“Absolutely. I’d love to work here as an actor,” he said. “I think the Philippine and Thai entertainment industries have a lot of similarities, and I feel there’s a place for me here. We’ll see what the future holds.”

Thailand’s booming Boys’ Love

(BL) industry is another avenue he has not ruled out.

“I think it’s amazing that Thailand has produced so many of these projects and that they’ve helped bring the Thai entertainment industry to a level we never imagined,” he noted. “Personally, it would depend on the script and the character.”

Comparisons to fellow Thai star Mario Maurer have also started to follow him as he gains recognition across the region.

“That’s what people have been telling me,” he laughed. “I hope so. Even if I could achieve one percent of what he’s accomplished, I’d be very happy.”

His first visit to Manila left a lasting impression, saying that everyone he’s met so far “has been incredibly kind.”

“People always greet you with a smile. Working with the videographers, photographers, and directors here for our campaign made me realize how talented the creative community in the Philippines is. I’d love to work with as many of them as I can,” he said.

Myron visited Manila last month as the newest ambassador of IAM Worldwide’s Amazing Organic Barley Gummies, becoming the wellness brand’s first Thai celebrity endorser. Currently signed with ONE31HD, he is also part of the company’s “IAM Next” campaign, which trains the spotlight on emerging Asian personalities with growing international appeal.

US actor, director, and producer George Clooney will receive a lifetime achievement award at this year’s Venice film festival, organizers said on Monday. Clooney, 65, called the award “a tremendous honor.”

“It also probably means I’m old, but I’ll take it,” he said in a statement released by the annual festival.

This year’s edition will run between Sept. 2 and 12, and the jury will be led by US actress Maggie Gyllenhaal

Clooney, who is also known for his political activism and humanitarian work, is a regular at the gathering on the Venice Lido. Clooney’s breakthrough role was in the medical drama ER . He has since starred in dozens of films, including Syriana for which he won an Oscar for best supporting actor. Venice festival director Alberto Barbera called Clooney “a complete and charismatic artist, impassioned and original.” AFP

By Angelica Villanueva

FRESH from his Best Actor win at the 9th Entertainment Editors’ Choice, Jericho Rosales confirmed that he has been offered the lead role in a biographical film about National Artist for Film Ishmael Bernal

Speaking to reporters after the awarding ceremony on Sunday, July 6, Jericho shared discussions for the project are ongoing, with his management still working out the details.

“There was an offer, yes, and my managers are fixing the details. The facts are, it was offered to me,” the actor explained.

While no filming schedule has been finalized, Jericho admitted he already feels the pressure of potentially taking on another historical figure following his acclaimed portrayal of President Manuel L. Quezon in Quezon

“I’m nervous. It’s another biopic, and of course, he’s one of the heroes of Philippine cinema. I really hope that I will have the time and support to prepare for that film,” he said.

Jericho also revealed that he has already begun researching Bernal’s life and career, with filmmaker Ruel Bayani and writer Diego Aguado among those helping him gather materials.

The actor said he welcomes the challenge, describing 2026 as a year filled with both highs and lows. He also expressed interest in working with directors Erik Matti and Lav Diaz on future projects.

Very Wang Nickie Wang

The actormodel visits Manila as the newest ambassador of a wellness brand

Thai-British actor Tate Myron believes his multicultural upbringing has been a strength in his acting career

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

New VMX faces feel the heat in ‘Bagong Tukso 2.0’

By Jasper Valdez

ANGEL Castro and Akira

Takamura see Bagong Tukso 2.0 as both an introduction and a test. The VMX special gives the platform’s new faces a chance to show who they are, but it also places them under the expectations that come with following a first edition that already made its mark.

The special follows the first Bagong Tukso , which helped make Margaret Diaz and Allisson Ross among VMX’s more recognizable names. In its second edition, the new batch of artists is expected to show what they can bring to VMX’s growing lineup.

During the media conference for the show, Akira admitted that the pressure is real, especially since Bagong Tukso 2.0 marks her first project with VMX.

“I accepted it because I wanted

people to get to know me,” Akira said. “But there is pressure because this is Bagong Tukso . I’m also with more experienced actresses, like Angel, while this is my first time.”

She said her main worry was whether she could keep up with the others.

“For me, the pressure is wondering if I can do it or if I might embarrass myself in front of them,” she added.

Angel, who is on her second VMX project, said she prefers to look at the actresses who came before her as inspiration rather than competition.

“I feel like my only worry should be how I can improve myself,” Angel said. “I should take inspiration from those who came before me in VivaMax, but never look at them as competition.”

She said respect also comes into play because the earlier VMX actresses have been in the industry

NEWPORT City has launched ASCEND: Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present an art competition and exhibition that celebrates the aviation heritage of the former Villamor Air Base and its transformation into a modern urban community.

Running from July 1 to Aug. 31, the initiative invites students and community members to interpret the history of Villamor Air Base through original artworks that explore themes of aviation, heritage, identity, and community.

The competition is divided into three categories. The Basic Education category is open to students of Villamor Air Base Elementary School and Pasay City South High School, while the Tertiary Education category is for students of the National Aviation Academy of the Philippines. A Community category is open to Barangay 183 residents aged 26 and above, focusing on personal memories and the area’s cultural identity.

Organizers require all entries to be original, handmade works created using traditional media such as acrylic, watercolor, oil pastel, colored pencil, or mixed media. Digital and AI-generated artworks are not allowed.

Entries will be judged on creativity and originality (40 percent), historical accuracy (30 percent), relevance to the theme (20 percent), and community voting (10 percent).

Artwork submissions will be accepted until July 25. Student entries will be submitted through their respective schools, while Barangay 183 residents may submit their works at the barangay hall.

Selected works will be exhibited from Aug. 3 to 31, with community voting scheduled from Aug. 17 to 31. Winners will be announced during the awarding ceremony on Aug. 31. According to organizers, the program aims to preserve Villamor’s aviation legacy while encouraging residents and young artists to reflect on the community’s history and continuing transformation.

longer.

“I will take inspiration from them. But it’s never a competition because my only competition is myself,” she added.

Angel also described Bagong Tukso 2.0 as a showcase meant to introduce the new VMX artists, featuring glamour and sexy shoots rather than fictional characters.

“We don’t play characters here. It’s more about getting to know us as actresses,” she said.

Asked what makes the second edition different, the two pointed to a sexier yet more tasteful approach.

“Sexier,” Angel said, before adding that the special also features more glamorous and artistic beauty shots.

“It’s not purely sensual. There is art in it, too,” she said.

Akira, for her part, said she wants viewers to see her without overthinking her image.

PUREGOLD’S OPM Con

Generations 2026 has officially sold out ahead of its July 11 staging at the Araneta Coliseum, with a lineup led by SB19, Ben&Ben, Alamat, Flow G, Skusta Clee, SunKissed Lola, G22, KAIA, and XONARA

Thousands of fans are expected to fill the Big Dome for the concert, which brings together some of the country’s biggest names in P-pop, hip-hop, rock, and alternative music.

“This year’s lineup captures where OPM is today: diverse, evolving, and resonating with different generations of fans,” Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad said. “Puregold OPM Con Generations 2026 uplifts a craft we proudly call ‘sariling atin,’ built by passionate artists and loyal fans. When more people discover and appreciate OPM, more artists are empowered to create, and our entire nation moves forward together.”

Topping the bill is P-pop group SB19, whose global profile continues to grow following hits such as “GENTO,” “MAPA” and “DAM.” The group became the first Southeast Asian act to receive a Billboard Music Awards nomination and remains one of the country’s biggest music exports. Also headlining the show is folk-pop band Ben&Ben, known for chart-topping songs including “Kathang Isip,” “Leaves,” “Maybe the Night,” and “Araw-Araw.”

P-pop act Alamat will showcase its signature blend of contemporary pop and Filipino culture, while rap stars Flow G and Skusta Clee bring hip-hop to the concert stage following successful solo careers after Ex Battalion Alternative pop-rock band SunKissed Lola joins the lineup with fan favorites such as “Pasilyo,” alongside P-pop girl groups G22, KAIA, and rookie act XONARA. The concert highlights the growing diversity of original Filipino music, bringing together artists from different genres and generations in a single show. With all tickets already claimed, organizers are preparing for a full-capacity crowd at one of this year’s biggest OPM events.

Tukso

Akira Takamura (left) and Angel Castro headline the new batch of VMX artists featured in ‘Bagong Tukso 2.0’

C4 LIFE

WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Spain embassy wraps up midyear cultural program with exhibitions across Manila

THE Embassy of Spain in the Philippines is concluding the first half of its 2026 cultural calendar with a series of exhibitions and art initiatives across Manila, highlighting the shared history and artistic ties between Spain and the Philippines.

Organized through the embassy, Instituto Cervantes, and its Cultural and Education Offices, the program features collaborations with Filipino and Spanish artists and institutions under the theme that tradition and modernity can coexist.

At Museo San Agustín in Intramuros, Buen Camino explores the religious and cultural influence of Spain in the Philippines through the pilgrimage routes leading to the tomb of St. James in Santiago de Compostela.

Instituto Cervantes in Intramuros and the UP Vargas Museum in Diliman are jointly hosting Melodías del pensamiento (Melodies of Thought), a photography exhibition by Spanish artist García de Marina that transforms musical instruments and scores into visual artworks. At the UP Vargas Museum, the exhibition is paired with Embracing the Wind, Cradling the Water by Spanish artist Cristina Mejías, whose works examine the unseen forces shaping life.

At the Centro de Turismo in Intramuros, Manila Calling brings together works by 70 artists from Spain, the Philippines and Japan. Originally created as murals in different cities, the artworks have been reproduced on silk fabric for the traveling exhibition.

Also in Intramuros, Four Centuries of Spanish Engineering Overseas remains on permanent display, showcasing the legacy of Spanish engineering, while visitors to Fort Santiago can view the colorful TAGPUAN mural by Madrid-based street art collective Boa Mistura. History enthusiasts can visit Returning to Manila: The Galleon Trade in Maps at Museo del Galeón in Mall of Asia. Produced with Spain’s Instituto de Historia y Cultura Naval and Archivo Histórico de la Armada “Juan Sebastián Elcano,” the exhibition traces the maritime routes that helped shape early global trade.

As part of the celebration of Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day, the National Museum of the Philippines has also opened a new museum in Baler, Aurora, featuring a gallery dedicated to the two countries’ enduring friendship, shared history, and cultural exchange.

The embassy said the exhibitions aim to engage students, scholars, artists, and the public while promoting learning, cultural exchange, and dialogue.

Dancing beyond the spotlight

CCP scholar Patricia Angel Ramos builds career in dance, education and cultural advocacy

By Nickie Wang

D

ANCE has taken Ramos from the stage to the classroom and behind the scenes of arts production, a journey she credits in part to the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Scholarship Program.

A former scholarship recipient, Ramos said the program gave her the support she needed to pursue dance professionally after studying at the Philippine High School for the Arts Victor Emmanuel L. Flor

The scholarship later helped her complete a bachelor’s degree in music, major in dance, at the University of the Philippines Diliman, where she graduated magna cum laude and received the Gawad Dekano para sa Natatanging Likha for her thesis recital.

After initially questioning whether a career in the arts was practical, Ramos said dance became the means through which she discovered her purpose.

“Aside from ballroom dancing, I also perform folk and contemporary dances, so I can help promote these art forms through performances and shows,” she said. Today, she works as a performer, choreographer, educator, and cultural advocate. She also co-founded Dance and Drills with dance partner Roque to promote dancesport through workshops and training programs while continuing to perform contemporary, folk and ballroom dance. Beyond performance, Ramos has expanded into arts management. She recently served as project coordinator for the Virgin Labfest XXI Writing Fellowship Program, gaining experience in production and project management after years onstage.

Throughout her artistic journey, one lesson has remained constant:

Ramos believes that dance demands more than talent. It requires consistency, commitment, and the willingness to repeat the same movements countless times in pursuit of improvement.

“Being disciplined is one of the most important things to consider,” she emphasized. “And discipline is not only important in dance. It applies to every aspect of life.”

She also encourages young artists to take advantage of scholarship opportunities, saying they provide not only financial assistance but also mentorship, professional exposure, and connections within the arts community.

The CCP Scholarship Program supports promising Filipino artists in various disciplines, helping them pursue professional training while contributing to the country’s cultural development.

Patricia Angel Ramos continues to build a career across performance, choreography, teaching, and cultural advocacy after receiving support from the CCP

FILIPINO artist Patrick Esmao explores architecture, ambition, and the shifting meaning of success in Paragon , an exhibition presented by Galerie Joaquin that coincides with the launch of his first artist book.

Shown during the Manila Collectible Co. Art Fair (MoCAF) from July 3 to 5 at Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City, the exhibition features geometric paintings of towers and urban structures that examine how societies define achievement and progress.

Drawing from his background as a draftsman, Esmao reduces cityscapes into precise arrangements of lines, planes, and geometric forms. His works depict towering buildings that project permanence while hinting at the impermanence of cultural values, economic conditions, and urban development.

The exhibition’s title, Paragon , questions what constitutes an ideal in a world shaped by constant

change. Through minimalist compositions, Esmao suggests that even the most iconic structures are products of a particular moment in history.

The exhibition also marks the release of Patrick Esmao , the artist’s debut monograph, which compiles works spanning different stages of his career and documents the evolution of his visual language.

Born in 1986, Esmao spent 13 years as a high school teacher before becoming a full-time artist in 2021. Since then, he has mounted six solo exhibitions and participated in major Philippine art fairs, including ManilArt and MoCAF. His works are known for combining acrylic painting with hand-sewn metallic threads that add texture and interact with light. The artist book is available at Galerie Joaquin branches, where the works from Paragon may also be viewed by appointment following the exhibition’s conclusion.

Esmao brings

draftsman’s

The National Museum of the Philippines opens its Baler, Aurora branch with a gallery centered on Philippine-Spanish friendship, shared history, and cultural exchange

Patricia Angel Ramos (left) and Roque Marquez help bring dancesport to more learners through workshops, training, and performances rooted in discipline and practice

Scholarship Program