THE Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers on Tuesday expressed serious concern over the rapidly changing situation in the Middle East, particularly the renewed hostilities between the United States and Iran.
In a joint communiqué following the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, ASEAN urged all parties to
and promoting genuine dialogue and diplomacy in addressing conflicts and tensions, including the need for a complete and immediate cessation of hostilities across all fronts in the Middle East,” the statement read.
The ministers also voiced deep concern over any discriminatory or unilateral measures that could hinder or block vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz or any other straits used for international navigation. They reaffirmed the importance of maintaining maritime safety and security in accordance with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law
PBBM summons China envoy
Condemns violent clash at Ayungin shoal
By Joel E. Zurbano and Maricel V. Cruz
THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has identified “persons of interest” related to the assassination plot against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Sara on official
By Charles Dantes
and his family, according to NBI chief Melvin Matibay.
Matibag issued the statement in his testimony during the eighth day of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, acting as the concluding witness for the prosecution regarding Article IV of the Articles of Impeachment.
In a related development, Matibag warned of what he called “kinetic force” impact of the assassination threats on the Vice President’s supporters.
Tuesday’s proceedings focused on Article IV of the Articles of Impeachment, addressing alleged “Assassination Plot, Grave Threats, and Inciting to Sedition”.
Matibag’s initial testimony highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the safety of public figures and the seriousness of the allegations involved in the case.
“We have already identified individuals of interest who may be able to shed lights or identify the person that our
By Katrina Manubay, Charles Dantes, Rex Espiritu and Ram Superable
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has summoned Chinese Ambassador to Manila Jing Quan Tuesday evening following a violent clash at Ayungin Shoal where China Coast Guard personnel clubbed a Filipino soldier on the head.
By Charles Dantes
Nafarette is AFP chief; Salceda named acting PLLO
By Rex Espiritu and Charles Dantes
THE Department of National Defense (DND) on Tuesday announced the appointment of Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete as the incoming Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), succeeding Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. Nafarrete had been serving as Commanding General of the Philippine Army. He takes over from Brawner, who completed his threeyear fixed term on July 21 under Republic Act 11939.
Brawner is the first AFP chief to serve the full tenure prescribed by law after 41 years of military service.
Following Nafarrete’s appoint-
ment, Lt. Gen. Donald Gumiran will lead the Philippine Army as the Commanding General.
“The DND congratulates Lt. Gen. Nafarrete and Lt. Gen. Gumiran on
their appointments and looks forward to their leadership in upholding professionalism, excellence, and dedicated service to the Filipino people,” Defense
By Maricel V. Cruz
FORMER Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has not attempted to leave the country and remains ready to face any complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman, one of his lawyers said Tuesday, disputing Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano’s claim that the Leyte congressman was trying to evade a possible case. Lawyer Ade Fajardo said Clavano’s allegation has no factual basis, noting that Romualdez has remained in the Philippines since the flood control controversy emerged and had appeared before the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI).
He also stressed that the Ombudsman’s announcement involved only the start of a preliminary investigation and did not constitute a finding of guilt. “We have no idea where Assistant Ombudsman Clavano obtained such details. We wish to clarify once again that former Speaker Romualdez has not left, nor is he leaving, the country. He is always ready to face any investigation,” Fajardo said.
“We are truly wondering where that information came from, because Congressman Romualdez never attempted to leave the Philippines. He is here and ready to face the investigation,” he added.
SUMMONED. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. meets with Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan whom he summoned to Malacañang on Tuesday after a Philippine Navy serviceman was injured in a confrontation with the China Coast Guard near Ayungin Shoal.
calling in China’s top envoy in Manila, Mr. Marcos personally elevated the government’s protest over the incident
the South China Sea. PCO
No impeach hearings on July 27-28
By Ram Superable
THE Senate impeachment court adjourned Tuesday after setting an adjusted trial schedule and hearing testimony from National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag regarding allegations of a contracted assassin.
Presiding Officer Francis Escudero announced that the trial will take a two-day break on July 27 and 28 to accommodate the President’s State of the Nation Address and the minority bloc’s
traditional response speech. Starting in August, the impeachment court will convene every week from Monday through Wednesday using the same 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. schedule,
after which regular legislative sessions will take place at 4:00 p.m.
During the session, the prosecution presented Matibag as its third witness under Article IV, with direct examination led by Representative Gerville Luistro and cross-examination handled by defense attorney Mark Vinluan.
Senator-judges questioned Matibag on whether the respondent’s alleged actions constituted an ordinary criminal offense, an impeachable act, or both.
Senator Joel Villanueva pressed the witness on the criminal nature of hiring
over the Philippines’ deliberate provocation and attack... at Ren’ai Reef (Ayungin Shoal).”
another person to commit a crime and how those findings relate to impeachment charges.
Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros asked about the background of an individual identified as Princess Maui and inquired whether an active threat remains against the President or Vice President.
Proceedings are set to resume on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. for the continuation of Matibag’s cross-examination, redirect examination, and senator-judge inquiries.
Vice President spoke with. It is possible that one of these persons of interest is indeed the person who had a conversation with the Vice President,” Matibag narrated in reaction to the direct examination conducted by prosecution lead counsel Gerville Luistro.
Matibag, however, declined to reveal the identities of the so-called persons of interest, stating that doing so would jeopardize the ongoing NBI investigation, put informants and assets at risk, infringe upon the individuals’ right to privacy, and violate confidentiality obligations under the Administrative Code and the Executive Memorandum Order regarding freedom of information.
In a statement, the OVP said the engagements aim to connect with overseas Filipinos and promote the Philippines’ interests internationally.
“The Vice President has left for an overseas trip. The trip includes a stop in Qatar, participation in a forum and a Filipino community (FilCom) event in the United Kingdom, as well as in the Netherlands,” the statement read.
The OVP also emphasized that no government funds will be used for the entire duration of the trip.
“The itinerary includes both official foreign travel and personal engagements. No government funds will be used by the Vice President for the entire duration of the trip,” it added.
The office also assured the public that it remains fully operational, with disaster response capabilities and programs continuing through its 10 satellite offices nationwide.
The Vice President’s trip proceeds despite the ongoing impeachment proceedings against her.
Fajardo said the lawyers were concerned that the allegation could create the public impression that Romualdez was guilty.
“We are puzzled and, naturally, concerned, as there is no basis for it. The effect is that our fellow citizens might perceive Congressman Romualdez as guilty because of the alleged attempt to flee,” he said.
He said the legal team is studying its options over what it described as Clavano’s unfounded statement.
“We are currently studying our options under the law regarding how to handle this information. This was made public only yesterday, and we feel there is no need to publicize matters that lack any basis, especially since there is no reason for the former Speaker to flee,” Fajardo said.
On Monday, another lawyer for Romualdez, Elaine Atienza, likewise denied that the former House leader planned to leave the country or evade legal proceedings.
“We deny in the strongest possible way any insinuation that Rep. Romualdez has attempted to evade the legal process. We reiterate: Rep. Romualdez never went into hiding,” Atienza said.
“He faced the Independent Commission on Infrastructure, and he will face the Office of the Ombudsman. He is in the country and will remain in the country until such time that he will be able to clear his name,” she added.
Atienza noted that the Office of the Ombudsman itself had clarified that no criminal case had been filed against Romualdez.
“The Office of the Ombudsman itself made one thing unmistakably clear today: Rep. Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has not been convicted of any offense, no criminal case has been filed before the Sandiganbayan, and he has not yet even been given the opportunity to answer the allegations against him,” she said.
“The announcement pertains only to the commencement of a preliminary investigation, where respondents are afforded the opportunity to present their side, and where the constitutional presumption of innocence remains fully in force,” she added.
Atienza also said Romualdez has not yet been formally served with a copy of the complaint and will respond once he receives it.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed Mr. Marcos raised the maritime incident with Jing.
“It concerns national security, but we will give additional information once we are allowed to do so,” Castro said.
On Monday, a CCG vessel anchored near the BRP Sierra Madre, which lies west of Palawan, deployed an inflatable boat with eight personnel on board. This prompted the Philippine side to send two smaller rubber boats with a total of seven soldiers on board.
During the confrontation, a CCG personnel hit a Filipino Navy serviceman on the head with a “wooden baton.”
Tit-for-tat
Ahead of his meeting with the Chinese ambassador, Mr. Marcos condemned the assault, Malacañang said.
“The President condemns these kinds of incidents,” Castro said.
“The President does not want these kinds of incidents and has set the policy that we should respond to them through diplomatic means. What is happening between our country and China is truly unacceptable,” she added.
Castro said the Philippine government stands by the actions of its personnel, whom she said were acting within the country’s rights and laws.
“Our officials and Filipino personnel are carrying out only the duties mandated to them, consistent with our rights and our laws,” the Palace official added.
For its part, China’s foreign ministry said it lodged “solemn representations
“The Philippine side provoked first, yet it has turned the blame upside down, distorted the facts, and maliciously hyped the issue,” the foreign ministry said in a statement.
‘Dangerous, aggressive, destabilizing’
Key Philippine allies condemned the clash, with Washington calling Beijing’s actions “dangerous and aggressive” and Australian foreign minister Penny Wong slamming these as “destabilizing.”
“The United States condemns China’s dangerous and aggressive actions against Philippine navy personnel at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea on July 20, 2026, and calls on China to immediately cease its destabilizing conduct,” State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said in a statement.
“China’s troubling pattern of provocation against lawful Philippine maritime operations undermines regional peace and stability and directly contradicts China’s repeated commitments to resolve disputes peacefully,” he added.
The statement came as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio landed yesterday in Manila to attend foreign ministers’ talks with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Before departing, Rubio said he was open to the possibility of a sideline meeting with China’s top diplomat Wang Yi.
Rubio heralded Washington’s commitment “to freedom of navigation in Southeast Asia” while reaffirming the US defensive umbrella in the region.
“This freedom is by no means guaranteed. If these waters were to fall under the control of a power willing to use trade as a geopolitical weapon, both the United States and the ASEAN states would face serious new threats to their sovereignty, security, and economic future,” he said.
‘Part of Beijing’s script’ China’s latest “provocation” at Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea is part of a “script,” Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said Tuesday.
“This is why we should not take this incident in isolation. They are all connected because nothing in China will move that is not aligned with one script,” Teodoro said.
He also accused China of releasing a “spliced” video of the incident in which, he said, removed the part where Beijing’s personnel made the “provocation.”
The violent confrontation in Ayungin Shoal followed the release of a racist AI-generated video depicting Filipinos as a monkey released by state-owned China Daily, which sparked condemnation by Philippine officials and Manila’s allies.
The Philippines maintains that Ayungin Shoal lies within its exclusive economic zone under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 Arbitral Award, which invalidated China’s sweeping claims over almost the entire South China Sea.
Multiple nations in the region, including the Philippines, have territorial claims that overlap with China’s, and altercations regularly occur in the heavily patrolled waterway. With AFP
“I regret to inform you, but in my capacity as NBI director, I cannot disclose the identities or personal details of our persons of interest. As I mentioned, this is part of an ongoing open investigation into the alleged contract for the assassination of our President,” Matibag said.
Prior to the direct examination of Matibag, Presiding Officer Senator Francis Escudero cautioned the witness, advising him to avoid remarks that might be seen as assaults on the individual senator-judges.
“Please avoid issuing statements that may impinge upon the independence and integrity of the Court or of individual senator-judges,” said Escudero. Escudero made the warning to avoid tensions in the courtroom, particularly following accusations from senator-judges Alan Peter Cayetano and his sister Pia, who claimed that Matibag’s testimony was intertwined with intimidation related to ongoing investigations by the NBI. Luistro conducted a direct examination of Matibag, whose testimony will signify the end of the prosecution’s case under Article IV.
In his testimony, Matibag said followers of the Vice President and of the Duterte family have been repeating and spreading the assassination plots she made in an online news conference on Nov. 23, 2024.
The NBI chief his apprehension prompted him to create a special task force to look into what he called the “serious, active and continuing” threat on the life of President Marcos.
“That is the very purpose of the task force, to monitor all the threats that are emerging now, and every day we see threats on social media, in statements at rallies. This is a continuous threat to our President that has become a threat to our national security,” he said.
said when asked if Malacañang had received any request Castro stressed that it would be more appropriate for the impeachment court to directly issue the subpoenas and orders because it has the constitutional authority to manage impeachment proceedings.
“In our view, it is more appropriate for the impeachment court itself to issue the orders and subpoenas, considering that the President is also an impeachable officer, Castro argued.
The Palace official said requiring presidential approval to obtain records could undermine future impeachment cases involving a sitting President.
“If, in the coming years under a future administration, the President
mer Albay Rep. Joey Salceda as secretary of the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office (PLLO).
spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong said in a statement.
Cabinet comeback Meanwhile, Malacañang on Tuesday confirmed that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. appointed for-
“We further reaffirmed the obligations of all states to resolve their differences through peaceful means, respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, protect civilians and civilian infrastructure in armed conflicts, and ensure the safety and security of United Nations peacekeepers and humanitarian personnel, in accordance with international law, including international humanitarian law, the UN Charter, and relevant UN Security Council resolutions,” the statement added. In April, ASEAN welcomed the ceasefire reached between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it would lead to a permanent end to hostilities and a lasting resolution to a conflict that has caused significant humanitarian and economic consequences.
The appointment marks Salceda’s return to the Cabinet nearly two decades after he served as presidential chief of staff in 2007.
A six-term congressman widely regarded as the House of Representatives’ resident economist, the former lawmaker previously chaired the House committees on appropriations, ways and means, eco-
However, U.S. President Donald Trump later declared the ceasefire with Iran “over,” with both sides launching military strikes and renewing geopolitical instability.
The statement reemphasized the bloc’s commitment to provide emergency assistance to ASEAN nationals, particularly during the ongoing crisis. It also recalled the ASEAN Leaders’ Statement on the Response to the Middle East Crisis issued in May, which aimed to strengthen regional coordination in mitigating the conflict’s impact.
Following the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit in Cebu in May, the leaders identified key action areas to strengthen regional resilience in response to the evolving situation in the Middle East.
The initiative followed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s announcement that the summit would tackle regional concerns, including oil supply, food security, and the welfare of migrant workers.
himself were impeached, wouldn’t the impeachment court order the release of BIR records if necessary, since the respondent president would likely refuse to consent?” Castro said. She also dismissed as premature questions on whether a possible Supreme Court petition by Duterte’s camp challenging the impeachment court’s subpoena order would become moot if Marcos eventually authorized the release of the records.
nomic affairs, and trade and industry.
“I thank President Marcos for the trust and confidence. And I thank the Executive Secretary for his guidance.
The most important resource of this administration is time. And with precious time and enduring support for the President in Congress, I humbly accept the immense challenge of passing the remaining major items of the President’s policy agenda,” Salceda said.
The ASEAN Leaders’ Statement also proposed measures to reduce exposure to supply disruptions through timely information sharing, strengthened contingency planning, and the development of coordinated emergency response mechanisms.
Before the summit, ASEAN foreign and economic ministers held a joint meeting and reiterated their call for restraint by all parties.
They emphasized that diplomatic dialogue and negotiations remain the only sustainable path to peace and stability in the Middle East.
The Philippines meanwhile iis hoping Myanmar will return to the ASEAN table in time for the bloc’s leaders’ summit in November, stressing that member states are still discussing how the country should be represented, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) ASEAN spokesperson Dax Imperial said Monday.
Asked by Luistro what he meant by “kinetic force,” Matibag said the Vice President’s assassination statements are having an effect on her supporters for them to spread chaos and disrespect for law and order.
“Their actions are inciting those who hear them—their supporters—to sow unrest and chaos in our country, showing no respect for our Constitution and disregarding our democratic process,” Matibag told the court.
He also cited the RAGE Coalition rally held in Cebu in May and led by Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte.
“We only need one head—the head of Bongbong Marcos,” the mayor was quoted as saying.
Matibag said the live broadcast of the event was heard by about 691,000 people.
He added that among the rally participants were some senators, former Quezon City congressman Mike Defensor and party-mates in PDP-Laban when he was its member.
Asked by Luistro what RAGE means, Matibag said, “galit at poot (hate and anger).
In a press briefing, Imperial emphasized that discussions on Myanmar’s representation involve all stakeholders, not just government authorities.
“That is actually our hope—for Myanmar to return to the table with its minister and leader representing the country. However, at the moment, ASEAN member states are still finding ways to make that happen,” he said.
“I want to reiterate that when we talk about Myanmar’s representation, we are not only dealing with the Myanmar authorities but with all Myanmar stakeholders,” he added.
Imperial also confirmed that Myanmar will be represented by its permanent secretary for foreign affairs. He noted that ASEAN foreign ministers will hold an extended informal consultation on Myanmar, with discussions conducted under the mandate of ASEAN leaders and in line with the Five-Point Consensus. With AFP
Inflation most urgent national concern—survey
By Katrina Manubay
INFLATION remains the most urgent national concern for Filipinos, with 57 percent of adults saying that controlling the rising prices of goods and commodities should be the government’s top priority, according to the latest Pulse Asia survey.
Results of the polling firm’s Ulat ng Bayan survey showed that inflation was followed by corruption, cited by 43 percent of respondents, and increasing workers’ pay at 36 percent.
Across major regions, concern over inflation was highest in the Visayas at 65 percent, followed by Balance Luzon at 57 percent and the National Capital Region at 55 percent. Mindanao posted the lowest share at 50 percent.
In Metro Manila, corruption topped the list of urgent concerns at 56 percent, followed by inflation at 55 percent.
Among respondents from socioeconomic Class ABC, corruption ranked first at 48 percent, followed by inflation at 47 percent and increasing workers’ pay at 40 percent.
Issues cited by fewer than 10 percent of respondents across geographic and socioeconomic groups included support for small entrepreneurs, environmental protection, assistance to calamity-hit communities, defense of national territorial integrity, protection of overseas Filipino workers, and combating terrorism.
Pulse Asia said concern over poverty and criminality rose by five percentage points each between March and July 2026, while concern about agricultural assistance declined by five percentage points and job creation by six percentage points.
The survey also found that the government received its highest approval ratings for efforts to protect overseas Filipino workers, at 46 percent, and assist calamity-affected areas, at 42 percent.
BI agents stop alleged terrorist from entering PH
By Vito Barcelo
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has stopped a suspected terrorist from entering the Philippines after he was flagged by the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) through the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS).
The BI said its APIS Operations Center (APOC) detected the arrival of a 49-year-old Omani national. His identity was withheld due to security concerns.
The passenger was scheduled to arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 from Doha, Qatar, on July 10.
After receiving the alert, APOC immediately coordinated with the BI INTERPOL Unit to verify the information. Once confirmed, the Bureau’s Anti-Terrorist Group (ATG) was directed to carry out the necessary operations.
Members of the BI Anti-Terrorist Group, led by Deputy Chief Bienvenido C. Castillo III, worked with immigration officers at NAIA Terminal 3 to intercept the passenger upon arrival. He was immediately excluded and barred from entering the country.
The BI said the passenger was assessed as likely to travel internationally to take part in terrorist activities.
Palace: No suspension of P85 wage increase
By Charles Dantes
ALACAÑANG
Mon Tuesday denied reports that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. would suspend the implementation of the newly approved P85 daily minimum wage increase in Metro Manila, saying the wage order will take effect as scheduled.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said there was no directive from
President Marcos to halt the implementation of the wage increase approved by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board for the National Capital Region.
“There is no suspension and no stoppage. The implementation will continue,” Castro said.
Asked whether Malacañang had received requests from private sector groups to suspend or reconsider the wage hike, Castro said none had been brought to the Palace’s attention.
“No request from the private sector has been relayed to us, and there is no order for it to be suspended,” she said.
The Palace clarification came amid questions over whether busi-
ness groups had sought to delay the implementation of the wage order, which grants the highest nominal wage increase ever approved in the National Capital Region. The P85 increase raises the daily minimum wage for non-agriculture workers in Metro Manila from P695 to P780, while workers in the agriculture sector, retail and service establishments employing 15 workers or fewer, and manufacturing establishments with fewer than 10 employees will receive the corresponding increase under the wage order. The initial tranche of P60 will take effect on July 25, 2026, while the second tranche of P25 will take effect on Jan. 20, 2027.
‘Hasten Cordillera autonomy measure’
By Dexter See
TRINIDAD,
LA
Benguet — Cordillerans petitioned President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to certify as urgent House Bill 6981, which seeks to establish the Cordillera Autonomous Region (CAR), to advance the region’s long-standing aspiration for autonomy in fulfillment of the constitutional mandate and inclusive regional development. In a manifesto signed by Cordillera congressmen, governors, vice governors, board members, municipal and city mayors, vice mayors, councilors, civil society representatives, and other stakeholders, the signatories also urged both the House of Representatives and the Senate to act on the pending au-
tonomy measures to achieve the region’s long-sought self-determination and spur socioeconomic development. The manifesto underscored that regional autonomy offers the most appropriate governance framework to accelerate socioeconomic development, preserve cultural heritage, and promote social cohesion for inclusive and sustainable development in the Cordillera. Earlier, Cordillera congressmen, including several party-list lawmakers, filed House Bill 6981 in the 20th Congress to reiterate the establishment of the autonomous region pursuant to the rele
vant provisions of the 1987 Constitution, which mandate the creation of autonomous regions in the Cordillera and Muslim Mindanao.
IN BRIEF
La Union monitors water quality in tourism sites
THE Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) continues to ensure the safety and cleanliness of rivers and inland waters across 20 ecotourism sites through regular water quality monitoring led by the Provincial Government-Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO).
The monitoring covers major rivers and waterfalls, including Kinmadilyan Falls, Tangadan Falls, Tapuakan River, Baroro River, Tuddingan Falls, Aringay River, and other sites across the province. PG-ENRO uses the collected data to assess water quality and identify environmental concerns that require immediate action. Dave Leprozo
PNP identifies suspects in Caloocan vlogger death
PHILIPPINE National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said Tuesday investigators have identified the suspects in the killing of political vlogger Alicia Lipata, also known as “Mima Alicia,” at her home in Caloocan City. Nartatez said police have built a strong case against the suspects and are pursuing their arrest while gathering additional evidence for prosecution. PNP spokesperson Col. Allen Rae Co said the suspects were identified less than 24 hours after the shooting.
Police believe the suspects may be linked to a syndicate or were hired to carry out the attack, but authorities withheld further details to avoid compromising ongoing operations. Vince Lopez
BOC seizes P23.3m misdeclared agri items
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized five container vans carrying misdeclared frozen agricultural products and food items from China worth an estimated P23.27 million at the Port of Manila. The shipments were declared as processed food products, but a full inspection uncovered frozen chicken, pigeon, Peking duck, duck meat, and other agricultural products valued at P17.03 million, with duties and taxes of about P6.24 million. The operation was conducted with the Department of Agriculture as part of efforts to curb agricultural smuggling and illegal importation.
Port of Manila District Collector Rizalino Jose C. Torralba issued Warrants of Seizure and Detention for alleged violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and the Food Safety Act of 2013. Vito Barcelo
MPD eyes group chats to address school threats
By Itchie G. Cabayan
MANILA Police District (MPD)
director Brig. Gen. Arnold Santiago has ordered the creation of group chats linking police, school officials, teachers, parents, and security personnel to allow for rapid response to threats against schools in Manila.
The directive came after authorities monitored a social media post threatening to sow chaos in several schools in the city.
The post warned students and teachers of Araullo High School and nine other schools that an incident like the recent school shooting in Tacloban City could hit them.
Santiago also directed the MPD’s cyber team and the city’s 14 police stations to identify and arrest those responsible for issuing threats intended to create panic in Manila educational institutions.
MPD Public Information Office
chief Maj. Philipp Ines said Santiago instructed station commanders to establish communication channels with school principals and teachers and to strengthen internal security measures.
“Gen. Santiago ordered station commanders to create group chats with all school principals and teachers. They should also implement internal security plans that are well coordinated with everyone inside the school premises, including keeping students inside classrooms and locking doors until authorities declare the area safe,” Ines said.
Stronger accountability on landfill mishaps eyed
By Joel E. Zurbano
SENATOR Risa Hontiveros has called for stronger accountability and more rigorous enforcement of waste management regulations, saying that the country’s repeated landfill disasters are not merely isolated events but rather “indicative of systemic governance failures.”
AN INDIGENOUS community in South Cotabato has been recognized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations for safeguarding traditional crop varieties, protecting forests and lakes, and passing its heritage from generation to generation.
The recognition made Lake Sebu the first Philippine community to become an FAO Village , joining a growing global network of rural communities whose local solutions are helping shape the future of sustainable agrifood systems.
The FAO Villages Recognition Initiative was launched by DirectorGeneral QU Dongyu during FAO’s 80th anniversary in 2025, with the view of recognizing rural communities that are advancing sustainable agrifood systems, conserving biodiversity, preserving food traditions and local knowledge, and fostering inclusive rural transformation.
FAO defines agrifood systems as all the interconnected components involved in the journey that brings food and non-food agriculture products like abaca from farm to consumers.
Agrifood systems transformation is key in making the agrifood systems more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable.
Meanwhile, Senator Raffy Tulfo, chairman of the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, questioned Dr. Gabriel Borlongan, chief of the Department of Health’s Environmental and Occupational Health Division, regarding his statement that foul-smelling landfills do not directly impact human health.
During a hearing of the Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change on Monday, Hontiveros drew attention to a series of recent landfill-related accidents, to complaints from residents about the San Mateo landfill, as well as the reported dumping of waste in the ancestral forest of the Aeta community in Sitio Tibag, Subic, Zambales. These incidents, she said, reflect persistent shortcomings in waste management and the enforcement of regulations.
“We can no longer dismiss these as mere accidents or isolated incidents. They are symptoms of a deeper problem, a failure of governance and a failure to properly implement our waste management laws. It is not our laws that are lacking. In fact, our laws are clear.
Landfills are intended to be a last resort, not the default solution,” Hontiveros said.
“Yet persistent gaps in implementing waste reduction, waste
segregation, and recycling programs at the local level continue to funnel enormous volumes of waste into landfills,” she added. She also questioned the effectiveness of monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and other concerned agencies, asking why landfill-related tragedies have been recurring, who should be held accountable, and whether collusion or a coverup has allowed violations to persist.
Hontiveros asserted that the recent incidents would not have occurred had existing waste management laws been properly enforced.
“This is no longer simply a matter of waste management. The health of our people, the protection of our environment, and the safety of our communities all depend on it. We need urgent action before our communities are buried under mountains of waste and before more lives are lost due to neglect,” she stressed.
Four-way tie-up forged to help ex-OFWs
By Vito Barcelo
RETURNING overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) will gain wider access to skills training, livelihood assistance, and employment opportunities under a strengthened partnership among four government agencies.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) signed a Joint Memorandum Circular on July 20 institutionalizing the expanded implementation of the Kaalaman Tungo sa Kabuhayan (K2K) Initiative, a skills-to-employment program for returning OFWs and their families.
The agreement was inked by Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, TESDA director general Jose Francisco Benitez, and OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong City.
Tolentino said the partnership aims to strengthen government support for OFWs not only while they are working overseas but also after they return by providing opportunities for employment and sustainable livelihoods. The memorandum establishes a coordinated framework that aligns the agencies’ reintegration programs and services, including industry-responsive skills training, competency assessment and certification, employment facilitation, and livelihood assistance.
IN BRIEF
New LPA developing into tropical depression
A LOW pressure area (LPA) outside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) is developing into a tropical depression by mid-week. The LPA is being monitored and has a “high” chance of becoming a tropical depression within the next 24 hours, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said in its Tuesday Facebook post. It will be assigned the local name “Kiyapo.”
The weather bureau said “Kiyapo” may cross Northern Luzon over the weekend and become a tropical cyclone. Rio N. Araja
Two NPA rebels yield in Masbate, CamSur
TWO New People’s Army (NPA) insurgents have voluntarily surrendered as troops retrieved an arms cache in separate operations in Masbate and Camarines Sur provinces in the Bicol region. On July 9, Jericho Umali, also known as “Dong-Dong” and “Agaton,” a member of the Kilusang Larangang Gerilya 2 (KLG2), Sub-Regional Committee 1, Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC), turned himself in at the Office of the Mayor in Pamplona, Camarines Sur. A day later, Ramon Golpo, alias “Raffy” and “RM,” also yielded to the 22nd Infantry (Valor) Battalion and the Office of the Mayor of Pamplona. Golpo, a member of KLG2, Sub-Regional Committee 3 and former Vice Commanding Officer of the Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU), turned over one M16A1 rifle.
Meanwhile, on July 11, troops of the 903rd Infantry (Patriot) Brigade discovered an arms cache in Sitio Valley Farm, Barangay Tigbao, Milagros, Masbate. The recovered war materiel included a KG9 submachine gun, improvised explosive devices, rifle grenades, ammunition, magazines, blasting materials, and other combat equipment believed to belong to the NPA. Rex Espiritu
Balanga-DepEd accord to build school buildings
THE Balanga City government has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Education (DepEd) for the construction of new buildings in four public schools in the city.
Mayor Raquel Garcia said the project is a significant investment in providing a safer, more conducive, and better learning environment for learners while addressing the growing need for additional classrooms in the city.
The MOA signing was attended by DepEd Undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera, Assistant Secretary Aurelio Paulo Bartolome, Schools Division superintendent Dr. Roland Fronda and Vice Mayor Francis Garcia. Garcia thanked DepEd for its continued partnership with the city government saying the collaboration will help fulfill the dreams of young Balanga residents by expanding access to quality education. Butch Gunio
PCG JOINS RIMPAC. The Philippine Coast Guard vessel
ANTI-AIDS CAMPAIGN. In conjunction with the observance of ‘Zero HIV Stigma Day,’ members of the Philippine Anti-Discrimination Alliance of Youth Leaders and UNAIDS conduct a campaign along Elliptical Road in Quezon City to seek increased government funding programs and services to combat the rising incidence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) among the youth. Manny Palmero
OPINION
Another legal setback for Sara
WITH the Senate impeachment court ruling to grant subpoenas for Vice President Sara Duterte’s bank accounts, tax records, and Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) documents, it’s Strike Two for her defense team. Earlier, the prosecution had successfully argued that, in fact, she hurled death threats against President Marcos Jr, the First Lady and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez as shown in a widely circulated video in 2024, a criminal offense that makes her unfit to continue in office.
Will it be Strike Three and Strike Four against Sara Duterte once the prosecution also proves misuse of confidential funds as well as bribery and corruption? We’ll know soon enough.
Lead prosecution counsel Chel Diokno succeeded in punching holes in the defense claim that the subpoenas are a “fishing expedition” by saying that these are necessary to prove unexplained wealth. He stressed that without examining Sara’s husband Manases Carpio’s accounts, it is impossible to determine her true net worth under the absolute community of property regime.
Duterte’s legal counsel claimed the subpoenas violated due process and amounted to an unlawful search. He also warned against opening nearly two decades of financial records, framing it as prosecutorial overreach. The impeachment court rejected these. The prosecution’s insistence on presenting Duterte’s tax and bank records is important. These documents are the most concrete way to establish whether her wealth was lawfully acquired or concealed through corruption. The precedent from the 2012 impeachment of Chief Justice Renato Corona showed that such records can expose discrepancies between declared income and actual assets. In this case, the revelation of hidden wealth was decisive in his conviction. Applying the same standard to Duterte will ensure consistency and fairness. No official should be above scrutiny.
The defense’s argument that records dating back to 2007 are irrelevant because she was not yet an impeachable officer at that time misses the point entirely. Wealth accumulation patterns over time reveal whether unexplained riches suddenly appeared once she gained access to public funds. If her financial movements intensified during her years in public office, that strengthens the case that her position was exploited for personal gain. Moreover, her husband’s records, though he is a private citizen, are relevant because family assets cannot be neatly separated when assessing unexplained wealth.
The allegations against Sara Duterte are mind-boggling: embezzling ₱612.5 million in confidential funds, amassing
unexplained wealth, bribing officials, and even plotting violence against the President and his allies. These are not minor infractions; they lie at the core of public trust. A vice president accused of siphoning public money and manipulating procurement rules cannot credibly claim to serve the people. Her unexplained financial transactions said to reach hundreds of millions of pesos depict someone who has treated public office as a personal business venture.
The defense strategy of pointing out typographical errors and raising endless objections only reinforces the impression that they are trying to delay and obstruct rather than confront the evidence. In contrast, the prosecution’s willingness to streamline witnesses shows confidence in the strength of their case. If the evidence is very strong, then prolonging the trial only wastes time and resources.
These are not minor infractions; they lie at the core of public trust.
From where we sit, this trial is not only about Sara Duterte. It is about whether our justice system can finally prove that no official is untouchable. If the Senate demonstrates that even a vice president must answer for hidden wealth, it will set a precedent that future leaders cannot ignore. On the other hand, if the trial collapses under political bargaining, it will deepen public cynicism and reinforce the belief that impeachment is just theater. What should be emphasized here is that transparency, evidence, and accountability must be upheld by the Senate impeachment court. The release of Duterte’s tax and bank records is the first step toward unraveling the truth. A sitting vice president who enriches herself at the expense of the people cannot be trusted to uphold the Constitution or lead the nation. Removing her would not only punish wrongdoing but also restore faith in our democratic institutions.
I consider this impeachment trial as a referendum on accountability. By insisting on the disclosure of Duterte’s financial records, the prosecution has laid the firm foundation for a fair and evidence-based judgment. The Senate trial should show very clearly that hidden wealth has consequences, even for the powerful. And if the evidence is indisputable and proves the charges, then Sara Duterte must be removed, because a vice president who treats public funds as her personal ATM is clearly unfit to remain in high office. ernhil@yahoo.com
When responsibility follows power
THE tragic school shooting in Tacloban City has brought us back to a painful and urgent question: how do we protect our children from the dangers they encounter online?
The concern is understandable. Young people spend hours on social media, where friendship, entertainment, bullying, violence, harmful challenges, and disturbing content often appear side by side. What they repeatedly see shapes how they think, feel, and respond. Over time, the screen becomes part of the world through which they understand themselves and everyone around them. This is why proposals to restrict social media use among minors have gained renewed attention. Australia has introduced an age limit for social media accounts. France has pursued stronger parental consent and age-verification rules. The United Kingdom has also tightened protections for children online. These measures generally require platforms to confirm a user’s age, apply safer settings, limit certain features, and give parents a greater role. The idea sounds simple enough. Set an age limit. Require compliance. Protect children from harmful content. The challenge begins with enforcement. A child can enter a different birthdate. A teenager can create another account. Someone can borrow a parent’s phone or use a friend’s profile. Millions of young people move across different devices, platforms, and accounts every day. A law can draw the boundary, while
technology can easily create another way around it.
That reality tells us something important. The burden of protection should fall most heavily on the companies that built these platforms, control how they work, and continue to profit from the attention of young users.
Social media companies should carry a clear legal obligation to protect minors.
These companies design the platforms. They create the algorithms. They decide which videos appear next. They know how long a child stays online, what captures the child’s attention, and what keeps the child scrolling. With that much influence over young minds, they should carry an equally serious responsibility for keeping them safe.
That responsibility begins with design.
Child safety should be built into the platform from the very start. Accounts used by minors should automatically come with stronger privacy settings. Messages from strangers should face tighter controls. Location sharing should carry clear safeguards. Violent content, dangerous challenges, addictive recommendation loops, and other harmful material
TEDITORIAL
EDITORIAL
Lawyers’ voices
HE impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is instructive, not only on the relevant points of the law, but on the very human attributes of its actors. We refer specifically to some lawyers for both the prosecution and the defense, and senator-judges donned in their scarlet robes.
We acknowledge that studying and practicing the law is a feat. Lawyers are correct to take pride in their profession and to acknowledge the important role that they play in society. They can even be granted some room to flex the school from which they graduated –perhaps they are truly grateful for the quality of education they received. Perhaps, these institutions ingrained in them a deep love of the law and a desire to work toward justice for all.
Some lawyers, however, take it too far. They emphasize their “legal background” every time they speak, asserting their superiority over nonlawyers among their colleagues.
Senator-judge Alan Peter Cayetano said arguing with a non-lawyer on a legal issue is a waste of time. He seems to believe he knows better than the framers of the Constitution themselves. They did not say that one has to be a lawyer to run for the
Senate. His lawyer sister, Senator-judge Pia Cayetano, has been notorious for her haughty and condescending behavior. There is frequent reference to “enlightening” the public and avoiding sounding too technical, but delivered in a tone that says that
—“—
Their virtues and vices are on full display every trial day.
without her, the public would be in the dark. She had read all the pleadings, she said, and she knew the answers to all of her own questions – she was just interested in what the others had to say. Ms. Cayetano’s tone is defensive
in mentioning criticism she obtained from social media, such as being biased. There is a hint of ridicule in acknowledging that a fellow prosecutor was whispering to the lead, or that the lead had used a wrong word which she was smart enough to correct. Ultimately, questions on the invasive nature of subpoenas and the so-called fishing expedition were addressed sufficiently by prosecutor Rep. Chel Diokno, whom they were trying to portray in a bad light. He was, after all, a law dean. Thankfully, some lawyers from both sides are able not only to answer questions competently and rationally, but more importantly, with calm and respect. Rep. Diokno and defense counsel Michael Poa showed it was possible to disagree amicably and respectfully, and that no hysterics is necessary in a court of civilized individuals.
Lawyers either serve society, or give grounds for jokes cracked at their expense. We expect to witness more of these exchanges as the impeachment trial for the Vice President – herself also a lawyer – drags on. May we be enlightened by lawyers, indeed, but only because we are able to glean from their words and actions what kind of persons they are, regardless of their profession.
Rohingya targeted by resurgence of ‘hateful’ disinfo in Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR - A wave of political disinformation targeting Malaysia’s Rohingya population has raised alarm among rights groups that say it is fuelling xenophobia and intimidation against the refugee community.
AFP fact-checkers have debunked a torrent of falsehoods about the Muslim ethnic group on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok -- including fake quotes, doctored videos, and fabricated statistics.
While anti-Rohingya disinformation has proliferated for years amid military crackdowns in their home country of Myanmar, analysts say the recent uptick is part of a broader political campaign ahead of Malaysian elections next year.
“Refugees have become a convenient proxy through which wider anxieties about the economy, migration, public services, security and national identity are channelled and expressed in the most violent and hateful language,” said Lilianne Fan, head of the Secretariat of the Malaysian Advisory Group on Myanmar.
“And ultimately the end message seems to be: The government is not listening to citizens.”
Malaysia hosts more than 215,000 refugees and asylum seekers through the United Nations refugee agency UNHCR.
More than 126,000 are Rohingya, making them the country’s largest refugee population.
Anti-Rohingya sentiment surged in late May after social media posts accused them of dumping waste from a cattle slaughter during the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha, a major public holiday in Malaysia.
The incident sparked an online petition calling for the government to resettle Rohingya refugees in “another country” and garnered nearly half a million signatures before it was removed.
Malaysia’s human rights commission issued a statement last month express-
should trigger immediate intervention. Platforms already know how to hold people’s attention. They can use the same skill, data, and technology to protect young users.
Design, however, becomes meaningful only when it is backed by duty.
Social media companies should carry a clear legal obligation to protect minors. They should assess risks, respond quickly to credible threats, preserve relevant information, and cooperate with families, schools, child-protection agencies, and law enforcement. Government should set clear standards and impose penalties that match the scale of the harm. A company that earns billions from people’s attention should also invest heavily in protecting the youngest people who use its service. That duty also requires disclosure.
ing its “deep concern over the growing hostility, discriminatory rhetoric and online attacks directed at the Rohingya community.”
‘Outrage over accuracy’
Accompanying the flood of hate are rumors that the Rohingya are seeking their own territory, special rights and citizenship through marriage to Malaysians.
One Facebook post from a group called “Rohingya Malaysia” claimed there was a call for a Malaysian town to be handed over to a local refugee community.
The campaign fuels xenophobia and intimidation against the refugee community.
However, AFP fact-checkers found the post -- which racked up thousands of interactions -- was generated by artificial intelligence, and that no such activist group existed.
A screenshot of another Instagram post shows a man in robes kicking somebody in traditional Malaysian clothing, with the words “Rohingyas kick out Malaysians.” AFP tracked down the account owner in the United States, who dismissed the fabricated image and denied having posted it.
Dozens of other posts identified by AFP used fabricated news reports to falsely claim two million babies were born to Malay-Rohingya marriages -- a figure disproved by official data and refuted by experts as “impossible.”
“Algorithms reward outrage over accuracy, allowing isolated incidents to be generalized to the entire Rohingya
Platforms should tell the public what actually happens inside their systems. How much harmful content reaches young users? How quickly do they act on reports? How many dangerous accounts have they removed? How often do their algorithms recommend violent or disturbing material? Families deserve clear answers. Schools need reliable information. Regulators and independent researchers need access to data that can help them understand risks and propose better solutions. Transparency allows the public to see whether a platform’s promises are matched by real action. Government has a central role in making all of this happen. Congress must establish a strong digital duty-of-care law. Regulators should conduct independent audits. Platforms should be required to
refugee population,” said Fan, a leading Rohingya crisis expert.
Victoire Rio, a France-based information integrity analyst, analyzed some of the accounts behind the posts and found “many that had a history of monetizing on Facebook” as partner publishers.
“Financially motivated activity often relies on politically charged issues, like the Rohingya refugee issue, as these issues are divisive and offer particularly fertile ground for ‘engagement farming’,” Rio said.
‘Fear becoming targets’ Malaysian NGOs have also raised alarm about rising hate speech and intimidation targeting the Rohingya, with activists saying any disputes involving the ethnic group often fuel wider hostility.
“Community members are also increasingly hesitant to share their experiences or seek support because they fear becoming targets of online abuse or public hostility,” said an official from the Rohingya Rights Response advocacy group, who asked not to be named due to safety concerns.
Despite accommodating one of Southeast Asia’s largest refugee populations, Malaysia is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention and does not officially recognise refugee status.
Responding to the calls for deportation, Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution said last month that the government would aim to balance security and humanitarian issues by working with other countries that have a high number of migrants.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim added that Malaysia will “engage through ASEAN mechanisms with the Myanmar authorities to resolve part of the issue.”
“Through our common effort, we will work to resolve the predicament of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh and also here,” he said in a joint press conference with his Bangladeshi counterpart. AFP
use privacy-friendly age checks, safer settings, faster reporting systems, and stronger content safeguards. Schools can strengthen digital literacy, guidance services, mental-health support, and early intervention. Parents, teachers, communities, government, and technology companies all share a part in protecting children. Yet the greatest responsibility belongs to the social media platforms who hold the greatest power over what young people see, absorb, and experience online. The tragedy in Tacloban calls us to act with care, courage, and wisdom. Our response should reach beyond account restrictions and age limits. A safer digital world begins when responsibility follows power, accountability follows profit, and every platform places the welfare of the child at the center.
IN BRIEF
India approves first dengue vaccine
NEW DELHI – India has approved its first dengue vaccine, authorizing the use of Japanese drugmaker Takeda’s Qdenga jab, the health ministry said on Tuesday. Dengue, which causes severe flu-like symptoms and debilitating body aches, has exploded globally, fueled by rising temperatures and densely populated cities.
India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) approved the vaccine for people between the ages of four and 60 after reviewing its quality, safety and efficacy, the ministry said.
“The vaccine is indicated for the prevention of dengue disease in individuals 4 to 60 years of age,” it said in a statement.
Qdenga is given as two injections, three months apart.
Takeda has a collaboration with Indian vaccine maker Biological E, aimed at expanding the drug’s manufacturing.
The vaccine protects against all four dengue virus serotypes and is approved in 42 countries, including the European Union, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Indonesia.
Taiwan lawmakers remove legal hurdles for Starlink
TAIPEI – Lawmakers in Taiwan approved legislative changes on Tuesday that open the door for Starlink to operate its satellite internet service on the island, which is trying to secure its communications in case of a war with China.
Taiwan, which China claims is part of its territory and has threatened to seize by force, has no low-Earth-orbit satellites of its own and relies on subsea telecoms cables to connect it to the rest of the world.
Taiwan’s Chunghwa Telecom has struck deals with several foreign satellite companies to provide back-up telecommunications in case of war or natural disaster, but lawmakers argued it was not enough. They said the Telecommunications Management Act’s requirements for telecoms operators to have a Taiwanese chairperson and foreign ownership caps of 49 percent had deterred Starlink from entering Taiwan’s market. In a rare moment of unity in the deeply divided parliament, lawmakers from President Lai Ching-te’s Democratic Progressive Party joined the opposition in approving changes to allow a case-by-case review process that could exempt companies, such as Starlink, from these rules. AFP
Fires in Brazil’s Amazon down to historic low in 2025
SAO PAULO – Forest fires in the Brazilian Amazon fell to a historic low in 2025 after peaking the previous year, according to a report published Tuesday.
The data gathered by environmental monitoring network MapBiomas will come as good news for leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva ahead of seeking reelection in October.
Flames engulfed the world’s largest tropical rainforest in 2024 when an unprecedented drought triggered the spread of fires, the majority of which were man-made.
Using satellite images, MapBiomas found that last year saw a reversal of the critical situation, with 3.1 million hectares (7.7 million acres) burned – the smallest area since records began in 1985.
Fires eased off across the country as well, with burned areas nationwide at their smallest since 2018.
The decline was “out of the ordinary,” geographer and report coordinator Ane Alencar told reporters. AFP
For Ukraine drones, names, humor part of psych warfare
FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom – Some intercept drones attack Ukrainian cities, while others strike oil refineries hundreds of kilometers away in Russia. But Ukrainian drones are also known for their unconventional names, with humor becoming part of psychological warfare.
The PS-1 Sun, made by Ukrainian defense technology firm SkyFall and nicknamed “pissioun” –Ukrainian slang for “penis” – has become almost a generic name for interceptor drones.
It has even inspired a verb to describe the fate of Russian kamikaze drones: They are now said to be “pissiouned.”
At the Farnborough airshow, southwest of London, visitors stopped to photograph a new version of the PS-1 Sun on Monday.
A SkyFall spokesperson, wearing a “Pissioun” T-shirt and hiding his face with a balaclava, presented the company’s latest model: the PS-1 Sun Jet Killer, designed to intercept jet-powered Shahed drones used by Russia.
Combining wordplay, dark humor and expressions of anger, these names have become symbols of resistance and a way of injecting some levity into a country that has been at war with Russia for more than four years.
“We wanted to create an effective product and also boost the morale of the soldiers a little. And we’ve succeeded: the mythology has taken off, this drone has become a global star,” another SkyFall spokesperson, who attends international defense exhibitions anonymously, told Agence France-Presse. At Fire Point, another Ukrainian manufacturer specializing in long-range drones, the FP1
Iran targets US military assets
TEHRAN – Iran targeted US radar and air defense installations in the Gulf on Tuesday, warning Washington of “more decisive and powerful” attacks to come as the conflict threatened to widen with a blockade of Saudi ports by Houthi rebels in Yemen.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they had attacked and stopped two “noncompliant oil tankers” attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz, part of an effort to tighten its grip on the vital waterway while the war reignited. Following the deaths of at least three US soldiers in the past several days, the United States launched a new round of attacks against Iran late Monday which it said were “designed to further degrade Iranian military capabilities used to at-
tack commercial shipping” in the strait.
Hours later, the Iranian army said it had targeted US assets in Kuwait and Bahrain, including air defense systems, radar installations and administrative buildings.
“With this radar sweep, the enemy should prepare for even more decisive and powerful waves of drone and missile attacks,” the Guards said in a statement carried by state news agency IRNA.
Scam losses in Asian regions up to $114
bn in 2025 – UN
BANGKOK – Victims of transnational online scams in East Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand lost up to $114.1 billion last year, a UN report said Tuesday, with estimated losses at least tripling from 2023.
Southeast Asia, especially Cambodia and Myanmar, has emerged as a regional hub for crime syndicates running fake romance and cryptocurrency investment schemes in which scammers – some willing, others trafficked – defraud internet users around the world, often from fortified compounds. But under pressure from several countries including the United States, Britain and China, authorities in the region say they are cracking down on the illicit industry.
Several alleged scam network bosses were extradited from Cambodia to China in the last year, after Washington and London sanctioned firms and individuals
accused of operating far-reaching cyberscams fueled by human trafficking.
Online scams, mostly from investment fraud, across the specified regions cost victims an estimated $88.3 billion to $114.1 billion last year, according to the new report from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
The combined losses far exceed the $18-37 billion estimated to have been lost in 2023, and reflect “the dramatic scaling of this criminal economy”, the report said.
In the last two years China, South Korea and Taiwan reported the largest losses from scams in the region, each losing billions of dollars, it added.
The cyberscam industry has ballooned in Southeast Asia in recent years, with organized criminal groups initially mostly targeting Chinese speakers before widening their reach and targeting victims globally. AFP
US President Donald Trump warned Monday that Iran would pay “many times over” for every American soldier killed, while Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said the conflict had become “a full-scale war.”
Nearly 100 US servicemembers have been wounded since July 7, the Pentagon said on Monday, most with minor concussions.
Tehran’s Yemeni allies, the Houthi rebels, meanwhile threatened a major broadening of the war, announcing they would blockade Saudi ports.
Such a move by the Houthis would put at risk Riyadh’s ability to bypass the flashpoint Strait of Hormuz for some of its oil exports and have major repercussions on the global economy.
Saudi Arabia and the Houthis traded fire last week for the first time in years,
threatening a 2022 truce, but the rebels have largely remained on the sidelines since Israel and the United States attacked Iran in late February.
Saudi Arabia strongly condemned the threat from what it called the “terrorist Houthi militia” and said it “continues to support the brotherly Yemeni people and their legitimate government.”
The Middle East war resumed after an April ceasefire and a June framework deal collapsed. Tehran reimposed its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, and Washington hit back by again blockading Iran’s ports. Oil prices surged briefly to a onemonth high Monday before easing slightly early Tuesday as the foes battle to control the strait, through which a fifth of world oil travelled in peacetime.
Great Barrier Reef at risk of ‘collapse,’ scientists warn
AUCKLAND – Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is at a very high risk of extreme and widespread bleaching and “ecosystem collapse” linked to this year’s El Nino weather phenomenon, top scientists warned Tuesday. Often dubbed the world’s largest living structure, the reef stretches 2,300 kilometers (nearly 1,430 miles) along the coast of Queensland state and is a major tourism draw for Australia. This month it avoided being listed as endangered, despite the United Nations reporting “utmost concern” about mass coral bleaching and the impact of climate change. Morgan Pratchett, a marine conser-
vation ecologist at Queensland’s James Cook University, told the International Coral Reef Symposium in Auckland, New Zealand, that the “extreme El Nino” posed a significant concern.
“It’s not outside of the realm of possibility that the next major disturbance will lead to localized species extinctions... and widespread ecosystem collapse,” Pratchett said. This year’s El Nino is expected to break records for its overall strength as it warms surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, bringing worldwide changes in winds, pressure and rainfall patterns. AFP
DRONE STRIKE. This handout photograph taken and released by the State Emergency Service of Ukraine on July 21, 2026, shows firefighters working to extinguish a fire at the site of a
Polgar turns down Hungary’s presidency
BUDAPEST—Chess legend Judit Polgar on Monday turned down Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar’s offer to join his push to break with the Viktor Orban era as the country’s president.
The pro-European conservative had nominated Polgar, widely considered the greatest woman to have taken to the chequered board, as a figure from outside politics to help carry out his promise of “regime change” from Orban’s hardline 16-year tenure.
“I do not feel I have the strength to take on the historic responsibility of uniting a divided nation, and so I am unable to accept the invitation,” Polgar posted on social media.
“I will do everything in my power to support a new, independent, and respected President of the Republic in achieving these goals,” she added.
After ejecting unpopular President Tamas Sulyok by constitutional amendment last week, Magyar backed Polgar late on Sunday as “a president of whom all Hungarians can be proud”.
“I regret her decision, but I respect it,” Magyar said on social media after Polgar’s announcement.
Polgar, who will turn 50 on Thursday, was the top-ranked woman chess player for 25 years before retiring in 2014, and commands widespread respect in Hungary.
But Magyar faced criticism for pushing ahead with her nomination on Sunday, a day after pledging a public consultation on the matter. After her rejection was made public, the prime minister apologised for any “communication mistakes”, but insisted that his Tisza party “asked the Hungarian people for their recommendations”. AFP
Spain’s stars return to heroes’ welcome before 2 million fans
MADRID—New World Cup champions Spain enjoyed a vibrant night of celebrations after an open-top bus parade through the streets of Madrid on Monday in front of a jubilant crowd of an estimated two million people.
The players enjoyed drinks on their procession under a blazing sun, along the main arteries in the city centre where a sea of fans in red and yellow were waiting, before arriving at Cibeles square where they took to the stage and partied into the night.
The squad and coach Luis de la Fuente were introduced one by one to the fans, each with their own choice of music that they sung along to, wearing “We are champions” shirts.
“(Spain) showed the world what it is to work together, with one mind and one heart,” said pop superstar Shakira in a video message played to the team and crowd.
Messi on team‘s World Cup defeat: The pain is immense
MIAMI—Lionel Messi said on Monday that after Argentina’s World Cup final loss “the pain is immense and it’s going to take a long time for this wound to heal.”
“I’ll also hold on to all the good memories,” Messi wrote in Spanish on Instagram, alongside a photo of himself wearing his loser’s medal following the world champions’ extra-time loss to Spain. “Today it’s hard to appreciate what we achieved, but this squad reached two consecutive World Cup finals.”
“I’d also like to congratulate Spain on winning the tournament,” added the 39-year-old, who broke down in
Vitality
tears after the defeat. In the knockout rounds, Argentina came from behind to beat Egypt and England and had to go to extra time to beat Cape Verde and Switzerland.
“With the matches we turned around by giving our all – matches that will remain in our memories forever – and with the support of an entire country, which, together with the hard work and effort of this squad, led us to once again be among the best in the world,” the Inter Miami forward wrote in the post.
Having scored eight goals during the tournament, Messi, an eight-time
De la Fuente offered a similar message, hailing his players as the “best in the world” and telling fans not to forget that “together we are stronger”.
The players and staff posed for a photo before Rodri raised the trophy again, just as he had done on Sunday night after Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in extra-time in New Jersey to be crowned champions.
After flying back from the United States to Madrid, the players were received by King Felipe VI and the royal family earlier Monday, and then Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, before kicking off the parade.
Players passed around the gleaming World Cup trophy and waved to their adoring supporters, some lining balconies, others on top of bus stops. Ferran Torres’s strike in extratime was enough to bring Spain their second World Cup, following a first victory in 2010.
“You have shown your grit, your resilience and your courage... combining head and heart,” the king told La Roja’s stars, who were dressed in suits but changed to more casual clothing for their parade on a hot summer’s day.
“Kings of the world” ran the words on the front of their vehicle, with fans chanting “champions” to their heroes.
Rodri held the World Cup trophy aloft at the top of the stairs as he descended from the Iberia plane that flew the team home after clinching their second star.
The Manchester City midfielder said this was the crowning achievement of his career.
“I’ve always said it, winning with
retains MWI crown on home soil at ‘26 Esports World Cup in Paris
PARIS—The Queens of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) have done it again!
Team Vitality (VIT) successfully defended its MLBB Women’s International (MWI) title at the 2026 Esports World Cup (EWC), defeating Natus Vincere (NAVI), 4-2, in a nail-biting Grand Finals series to cap off the most-watched edition in MWI history. The French organization became back-to-back MWI champions, walking away with the lion’s share of the $500,000 prize pool. The victory carried even greater significance as the tournament ushered in a new era for women’s esports, following its rebrand from the MLBB Women’s Invitational into a fully realised global championship. The landmark edition also marked MWI’s European debut at EWC 26, where VIT, one of the world’s leading French esports organisations, lifted the trophy on home soil in Paris. The triumph secured the organisation’s record-extending fourth MWI crown, further cementing its legacy as the undisputed Queens of MLBB.+ MWI is the only dedicated women’s esports tournament at EWC 26 and has grown into one of the world’s leading competitions for female esports athletes. This year’s edition was the tournament’s largest yet, with open qualifiers spanning 60 regions before culminating in a 16-team Main Event in Paris. Its continued growth reflects MLBB Esports’ commitment to building a more global and inclusive competitive ecosystem, creating more opportunities for women to compete on the international stage. MLBB is the star game of international video game company MOONTON Games. With over 1.5 billion installations and 110 million Monthly Active Users (MAU), MLBB is one of the world’s leading mobile games. According to Esports Charts, MLBB has been the world’s most-watched mobile esports title since 2021, underscoring its enduring global appeal and the continued growth of its competitive ecosystem. Ray Ng, Head of Esports Ecosystems at MOONTON Games, said: “Congratulations to Team Vitality on an outstanding title defence, and to every team that competed at MWI at EWC 26. This year’s tournament featured the strongest and most globally diverse field
in MWI history, reflecting the remarkable progress of women’s MLBB esports. MWI has grown into a truly global championship that expands opportunities for women to compete on the international stage while introducing MLBB to new audiences around the world. Together with the Esports Foundation, we look forward to building on its success and writing the next chapter of MWI at EWC.” Rivalry renewed, score settled
The Grand Finals also renewed one of MLBB’s greatest international rivalries. VIT’s Indonesian roster faced the Philippines’ NAVI in a rematch of the MWI 2024 Grand Finals, where NAVI—then competing as Smart Omega Empress (OMGE)— swept VIT 3-0 to dethrone the defending champions and end their 24-match international winning streak, a run that had stood since 2021. Home to many of MLBB’s greatest players and world champions, Indonesia and the Philippines have long set the benchmark for competitive MLBB.
VIT’s “Queen of the Jungle”, Viorelle “Vival” Chen (Jungler), claimed the Finals Most Valuable Player (FMVP) honour for the second time, having first earned the accolade at the inaugural MWI in 2022.
“I am extremely proud of what this team has achieved, especially with the resilience they showed across such a demanding tournament,” said Danny Engels, Chief International Officer of Team Vitality. “For Vitality, this is also about helping push women’s esports further, not only in Southeast Asia but around the world. We want to play a role in growing the scene and be at the forefront of mobile gaming globally.”
your country is the most beautiful thing there is, above all a World Cup,” said Rodri.
“This generation grew up watching (Iker) Casillas and (Andres) Iniesta lift the cup and that we can do it today is the biggest thing you can do in football.”
Many younger supporters were not yet born when Iniesta’s extra-time goal against the Netherlands secured Spain’s first World Cup in South Africa 16 years ago.
“I’m really happy about the second star” Spain has earned, “very joyful,” said Hector Mollar, a 14-year-old student, who said he was able to see Torres, teen star Lamine Yamal and Arsenal’s Mikel Merino as the bus parade passed him. It is “very different” to live a day like today than to have someone tell you about it, Hector added.
Match-winner Torres joked he was “flying, literally” after the team returned from the United States after beating Argentina in New Jersey. AFP
DEFENDING champion Abra Solid North clobbered Bacolod, 129-45, on Monday for the all-time biggest victory margin in the SportsPlus MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 2026 Season at the One Arena Cainta in Rizal Province. Powered by Dave Ildefonso’s career-high 40 points and six others in double figures, the Abra Weavers pounded the Bacolod Maskarras throughout to win by 84 points, eclipsing the San Juan Knights’ 82-point blowout of the Mindoro Tamaraws (146-64) on Sept. 13, 2022, and raising their pacesetting record to 15-1 in the round-robin elimination phase.
Ildefonso, the reigning MVP, also tallied 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals to capture the SportsPlus best player honors over Raven Gonzales, with 19 points, 20 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 blocks.
“We’re really trying to prove that we’re the team to beat,” said Ildefonso, adding that the win is more important than his output.
Abra, which displaced San Juan (14-1) at the top spot, also drew 13 points, 7 assists and 2 rebounds from Nico Elorde; 13 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists from Alfred Batino; and 10 points each from Tucker Molina, Josh Asuncion and John Figueroa. Exploiting their huge 65-36 edge in rebounds, the Weavers scored more points in the paint (70-10), second chances (19-2), and fast breaks (38-4) to hold the Maskarras to the season’s lowest score and a 3-18 slate. Bacolod got
Spain’s players parade onboard an open-top bus through the streets of Madrid a day after the national football team won its second World Cup title following a 1-0 victory against Argentina.
Lionel Messi AFP
Ballon d’Or winner as best player in the world, failed to make an impact in the final, much like his team, which was unable to pose a threat to a betterorganised Spanish side. At the World Cup, he has now lost two finals, in 2014 and 2026, and won
one, in 2022, against France. Argentinian media reported on Monday that Messi was not expected to make the trip back to Buenos Aires with most of the rest of the squad for what promises to be a subdued homecoming. AFP
Judit Polgar AFP
Tucker Molina of Abra
Team Vitality raises the championship trophy.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
Roman Prospero
PH shooters to see action at World Cup in Hangzhou
By Randy M. Caluag
THE Philippine shooting team is set to test its mettle against the world’s elite as athletes head to China for the ISSF World Cup, scheduled for July 22 to 29 in Hangzhou.
Leading the charge in the Olympic Pistol disciplines are Southeast Asian Games team bronze medalists Michael Angelo Fernandez, Carlo Deniel Valdez, and Timothy John Poblete, alongside National Champion Franchette Shayne Quiroz. Valdez enters the competition riding high on momentum following his recent silvermedal performance at the Thai Open.
The pistol squad will be mentored by coach Azizjon Mukhamedrakhimov. In the Olympic Rifle event, recordbreaker Amparo Teresa Acuña leads the national campaign. Acuña enters the World Cup fresh off shattering both her personal best and the Philippine national record. She is accompanied by coach Julius Valdez. Meanwhile, the Olympic
MORE than 350 delegates from 12 nations are set to compete in the 10th Senior Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships at the Tagaytay City Velodrome next month.
Host Philippines will be joined by powerhouses Vietnam, Japan, Korea, India, Mongolia, Cambodia, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, South Korea, Kyrgyzstan, and Thailand in the August 4-7 meet organized by the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines and presented by the Philippine Sports Commission.
India has the most entries with 50, followed by Vietnam with 45, and the Philippines with 43 as they see action in individual men’s and women’s events, mixed pairs, trios, groups, aerobic dance, and aerobic steps.
The four-day event features age groups in the 1214 youth, 15-17 junior, and 18 and above for seniors.
“We have wanted to stage this event for some time and we are proud to say that we finally have it,” said GAP president Cynthia Carrion in the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum on Tuesday at the Philippine Sports Commission media room.
“Aerobics is not only an exercise. It is also a competition.” Carrion was joined by GAP secretary-general Rowena Eusuya in the session presented by San Miguel Corporation, PSC, Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, and the country’s 24/7 sports app ArenaPlus.
The gymnastics chief refused to predict how the country will fare in the meet sanctioned by the World Gymnastics and Asian Gymnastics Union.
“I cannot promise anything kasi ang gagaling nung ibang countries,” said Carrion, but added the mixed pair of Arcenio Cadios and Charmaine Dolar are medal contenders for the host country after winning the silver medal in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok last year.
Both marksmen are coming off a competitive stint at the World Cup in Lonato, Italy, with Dionisio also building on his recent bronze-medal victory at the South East Asian Shooting Association (SEASA) Championships. In Olympic Ladies Trap, National Champion Lydia Cuyong and national record holder Janice Navato will spearhead the Filipina contingent. Completing the delegation for the national squad are Teddy Javines, Leonardo Gino Jr., Valerie Levanza, and 2026 SEASA silver medalist Catherine Levanza.
Benilde whips Enderun, back in win column
COLLEGE of Saint Benilde came back from a set down to repel Enderun Colleges, 21-25, 27-25, 25-18, 25-22, for a rebound win in the 2026 Shakey’s Collegiate National Invitationals on Tuesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. The Lady Blazers capitalized on their gutsy second-set fightback to turn the tables around and frustrate the listless Lady Titans for their second victory in three starts.
Rookie winger Mhonniecka Soliven blasted 20 points on 18 kills and two aces to steer CSB back in the win column of the competition backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner, and R and B Milk Tea following a four-set loss to University of Santo Tomas on Monday to improve to a 2-1 win-loss record.
“Marami pa ring bagay na nagla-lack pero I think mas magi-improve pa kami sa mga next games namin,” Soliven said.
Camila Bartolome added 19 markers built on 14 attacks, including the matchclinching crosscourt kill, four kill blocks and an ace, while Mary Grace Borromeo and Fionna Inocentes added nine points each for the Lady Blazers, who managed to snatch the win despite throwing away 31 points on errors. CSB encountered tough resistance from Enderun in the closing stretch of the fourth set after the Lady Titans cut the Lady Blazers’ six-point lead to 2221 following a hit by Althea Botor. Bartolome and Soliven answered with back-to-back hits before Enderun saved a match point. Bartolome then smashed the finishing hit to end the one-hour, 57-minute battle in the tournament supported by Jetour, Baic, Eurotel, Victory Liner Rent & Go, F2 Logistics, Summit Natural Drinking Water, PusoP.com and Smart Sports. The Lady Blazers face Letran in a rematch of the NCAA Season 101 finals on Wednesday.
Eala pens heartfelt message to PH fans
By Jeremiah Sevilla
FILIPINA tennis ace Alexandra “Alex” Eala expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Filipino fans after her memorable homecoming, saying that the experience reminded her of what she carries on the international stage as she starts her US Open buildup.
“That’s a wrap on Manila. Maraming salamat sa pagtanggap sa akin mga kababayan!” Eala wrote in an Instagram story on Monday night following her departure for the United States to begin her North American hard-court swing.
“Each and every one of your stories has touched me on a profound level. I leave with a refreshed memory of what I carry when I’m out there playing tennis,” she continued.
“And wow it is a privilege to be part of something bigger than myself. Never been prouder to represent home.” Filipino supporters warmly welcomed the 21-year-old Eala back home after her historic Wimbledon campaign, where she dethroned defending champion Iga Swiatek to become the first Filipino player to reach a Grand Slam fourth round (Round of 16) in the Open Era.
Gilas player Phillips signs 2-year pact with Japan team Kyoto Hannaryz
GILAS Pilipinas standout Mike Phillips has taken the next step in his professional career after signing a two-year contract with Kyoto Hannaryz in the Japan B.League Premier division.
The Japanese ball club made the announcement on Tuesday through its Instagram page, with Phillips making his debut in the 2026-2027 season.
“I’m truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to join the Kyoto Hannaryz organization and the B.LEAGUE,” said the former De La Salle University star, who became the third Asian Quota player of the team after Matthew Wright and Jamie Malonzo.
“During my college years, I had the chance to play in several tournaments in Japan, and those experiences left a strong impression on me. I’m excited to return and experience the passion of basketball in Japan once again,” he added. Phillips became eligible to suit up as an Asian Quota import in the B. League after playing for Gilas as a local in the third window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
The 6-foot-7 athletic forward immediately made his presence felt in his FIBA debut, posting 8.5 rebounds
and 4.0 points on top of his hustle plays to emerge as one of the bright spots in the national squad’s losses to New Zealand and Australia.
Phillips also played for the Philippine team that seized the gold medal in the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia.
Known as “Motor Mike” beginning in his collegiate career, Phillips led La Salle to UAAP championships in 2023 and 2025, bagging the Finals MVP award in his final year.
The Fil-Am cager also won three straight PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup titles with EcoOil-La Salle Green Archers and was named the tournament MVP in 2024. The 24-year-old bruiser, who started his pro career with the San Juan Knights in the MPBL, is eager to help Kyoto bounce back from a dismal 2025-2026 campaign where the squad finished with a 20-40 winloss record in the B.League
“I’m looking forward to giving my all every day alongside my teammates and competing hard for the Kyoto fans and community throughout the season,” Phillips said. Jeremiah Sevilla
The world No. 29 interacted with her fans and gamely answered questions during meet-andgreets and media engagements last week. She was also honored by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Malacañang Palace. In a separate Instagram story, Eala posted a photo of her emotional interaction with an elderly supporter using a wheelchair who was carrying a paper bearing the message: “I got better because you are an inspiration to all Filipinos. Thank you Lord for giving us Alex. She is a gift from you.”
After her brief but meaningful visit to the country, Eala now heads to the hard-court season leading to the US Open with a renewed sense of purpose.
The Pinay lefty netter will open her campaign in the WTA 500 Mubadala DC Open from July 27 to August 2, where she will play in singles and doubles alongside American legend Venus Williams.
Eala is also expected to compete in the Canadian Open in Toronto from August 2 to 13 and the Cincinnati Open in Ohio from August 13 to 23--both WTA 1000 tournaments--before heading to the US Open scheduled August 30 to September 13.
St. Benilde’s Majoy Innocentes goes for a kill against Enderun’s Ederlyn Alba and Aureaa Alvero.
Shotgun squad features seasoned Olympian Jethro Dionisio and Junior Champion Antonio Joseph Javines.
Carlo Valdez with his pair of silver medals from the recent Thai Open.
Alexandra Eala
Rowena Eusuya and Cynthia Carrion
CONVERGENCE INITIATIVES. Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay meets with key partners from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to discuss convergence initiatives to strengthen interagency coordination in support of the country’s tourism priorities. The meeting focused on aligning the three agencies’ priority agenda to further enhance the Philippines’ competitiveness as a tourism destination. Discussions centered on harmonizing tourism arrival data, standardizing traveler classifications, streamlining data collection processes, and strengthening information sharing to ensure more accurate, timely and reliable tourism statistics.
By Thony Rose Lesaca
THE Philippines’ overall balance of payments (BOP) surplus surged to a 21-month high of $3.40 billion in June 2026, up from $226 million in June 2025 and $131 million in May 2026, data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed Tuesday.
The June surplus narrowed the country’s cumulative deficit to $3.88 billion in the first half of the year from $7.28 billion previously.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort attributed the higher surplus largely to proceeds from the government’s global bond offering announced in June.
“[This was] largely due to the proceeds of the $2.5 billion national government global bond issuance settled on June 24, 2026; also partly due to the decline in global crude oil prices in the latter part of June 2026 up to early July 2026,” he said in a Viber message.
The national government raised $2.5 billion from a triple-tranche US dollar global bond offering, comprising $550 million in 5.5-year bonds, $1.65 billion
RETURNING HOME.
On his 80th birthday, PLDT Inc.
chairman Manuel Pangilinan returns to San Juan City to inspire a new generation of dreamers through a learning and community initiative led by the PLDT-Smart Foundation and Tulong Kapatid. Through Tulong Kapatid, the corporate social responsibility alliance of foundations under the MVP Group of Companies, PLDT-Smart Foundation, together with Alagang Kapatid Foundation Inc. (AKFI), Cardinal Medical Charities Foundation, Maynilad, Makati Medical Center Foundation and One Meralco Foundation—as well as members of the Pangilinan family, turned over learning support items and launched a community mural painting activity at the Tibagan Child Development Center in Barangay Tibagan, San Juan City.
By Darwin G. Amojelar
in 10-year bonds and a $300 million tap of the 2051 global bonds.
The BSP said the year-to-date BOP position reflected the continued tradein-goods deficit and net outflows from foreign portfolio investments.
Sustained net inflows from personal remittances of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), government external borrowings, trade in services and foreign direct investment partly offset the deficit.
Ricafort said continued growth in OFW remittances, business process outsourcing revenues and foreign tourism receipts also supported the BOP position.
The country’s gross international reserves (GIR) rose 0.73 percent to $104.74 billion as of end-June from $103.99 billion in May, but the level
remained below the $105.99 billion recorded in June 2025.
The BSP attributed the higher GIR to the national government’s net foreign currency deposits and the central bank’s net income from foreign investments.
Downward valuation adjustments in the BSP’s gold holdings and foreign currency-denominated reserve assets, along with the government’s drawdowns on foreign currency deposits to service external debt, partly offset the increase.
The BSP said the reserve level remains an adequate external liquidity buffer equivalent to 6.8 months of imports of goods, service payments and primary income, and covers about 3.7 times the country’s short-term external debt based on residual maturity.
“For the coming months, the markets would anticipate developments related to any possible US-Iran peace deal by August 17, 2026 or lack thereof, especially on the Strait of Hormuz shipping traffic and the impact on global crude oil prices, the country’s oil import bill, trade deficit, inflation, financial market performance and the effects on overall BOP and GIR data,” Ricafort said.
PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) has selected GE Aerospace to supply GEnx-1B engines for 15 new Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, with purchase rights for five additional aircraft, the companies said.
The agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony at the Farnborough International Airshow, led by PAL Holdings Inc. president and chief operating officer Lucio Tan III, PAL president Richard Nuttall and senior GE Aerospace executives.
PAL expects delivery of the Boeing 787-10 aircraft between 2031 and 2034.
The GEnx-1B engine combines efficiency, reliability and durability with lower emissions through advanced materials and innovative design, supporting quieter and more sustainable long-haul travel, according to GE Aerospace.
“As we continue to invest in our fleet and expand our international network, GE Aerospace remains an important partner of Philippine Airlines,” Tan said.
“We are confident that the GEnx engines will provide the reliability, efficiency
and performance needed to support our operations and deliver an even better travel experience for our customers,” he said.
GE Aerospace Commercial Engines & Services president and chief executive Mohamed Ali said PAL’s selection of the GEnx engine for its new Boeing 78710 fleet builds on the companies’ longstanding relationship and reflects the strength of GE Aerospace’s technology, services and support.
“We are proud to support PAL as it grows its widebody fleet with an engine that delivers proven reliability, fuel efficiency and strong operating performance,” he said.
The Boeing 787-10 will form part of PAL’s broader fleet modernization program aimed at building a more efficient, sustainable and competitive airline. With advanced composite materials, next-generation aerodynamics and fuelefficient engines, the Boeing 787-10 delivers environmental benefits, reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared with previous-generation aircraft while improving operational performance.
$3.40 billion $3.88 billion $104.74 billion BOP surplus in June 2026 BOP deficit in first half of 2026 GIR as of end-June 2026
By Jenniffer B. Austria
executive vice president and head Charles Rodriguez said the bank continues to provide financing solutions that help businesses expand, strengthen operations and pursue sustainability goals.
“We are pleased to support Cebu Pacific in this milestone investment,” Rodriguez said.
“As a trusted financial partner, BDO continues to provide financing solutions that help businesses scale, strengthen operations and advance their sustainability objectives,” he said.
PH shares drop 1.3% on profit taking, weak peso
PHILIPPINE shares fell Tuesday
as investors took profits following a four-day rally.
The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange Index dropped 81.92 points, or 1.28 percent, to close at 6,333.80, while the broader all shares index slipped 11.11 points, or 0.32 percent, to 3,439.58.
“The local bourse ended lower as investors took profits after a four-day winning streak, with the benchmark index still looking for catalysts to stabilize above the 6,400 level,” said Luis Limlingan, head of sales at Regina Capital Development Corp.
“The pullback was viewed as a healthy correction as the market neared overbought territory,” he added.
Market sentiment was also weighed down by a weaker peso against the US dollar and rising global oil prices.
The peso depreciated to 61.745 to the dollar Tuesday from 61.686 on Monday.
Four of the six sectoral indices ended lower, led by services, which fell 2.5 percent, or 89.24 points, to 3,481.36.
The financials index dropped 1.1 percent, or 21.30 points, to 1,912.87, while holding firms declined 0.82 percent, or 36.71 points, to 4,415.66. The property index slipped 0.49 percent, or 9.35 points, to 1,917.82.
Meanwhile, the industrial index rose 1.26 percent, or 105.31 points, to 8,437.59. Mining and oil posted the strongest gain, climbing 3.51 percent.
Trading was active, with value turnover reaching P7.94 billion.
Technology shares helped Asian stock markets rebound on Tuesday, while oil prices eased slightly even as Iran targeted US radar and air defense installations in the Gulf.
Tech stocks dived in recent sessions on ongoing fears of excessive valuations in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector, with chipmakers leading the rout.
Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP
PSE revises index inclusion rules
By Jenniffer B. Austria
THE Philippine Stock Exchange is revising its index eligibility rules by adopting a 98 percent cumulative market capitalization threshold, introducing new liquidity measures and lowering the minimum public ownership requirement for mega-cap companies.
Under the revised policy, the
of at least P250 billion, provided they
rebalancing—aim to keep the PSE Index Series aligned with global standards and responsive to evolving market needs.
As part of the update, the PSE will adopt the Median Trading Activity Ratio, or MTAR, and Monthly Average Daily Value Turnover, or MADV, as its primary liquidity metrics, replacing previous evaluation criteria.
The updated rules will apply to the main PSEi, PSE Dividend Yield Index, PSE MidCap Index and all sector indices. For market capitalization eligibility,
McDonald’s taps COREnergy to power Visayas stores with RE
MCDONALD’S Philippines has tapped COREnergy, the retail electricity supply unit of Vivant Energy, to participate in retail aggregation and open-access programs across its growing store network in the Visayas.
The partnership will initially cover 36 McDonald’s restaurants across Cebu and Negros Island. Of these, 32 will participate in the Retail Aggregation Program, or RAP—16 in Cebu and 16 in Negros Occidental—while the remaining four will transition individually through Retail Competition and Open Access, or RCOA.
got Torres, managing director of McDonald’s Philippines. “Electricity is one of the largest operating costs in our business. By working with COREnergy, we can better manage this expense and build more energy-efficient restaurants as we grow.”
RAP and RCOA allow qualified electricity consumers to source power directly from licensed retail suppliers such as COREnergy. The arrangement gives McDonald’s access to competitive rates and flexibility in managing power requirements across company-owned and franchised locations.
only companies falling within the top 98 percent of the cumulative total market capitalization of eligible securities will qualify for index inclusion.
Under the new liquidity parameters, companies seeking entry into the PSEi, PSE Dividend Yield Index and PSE MidCap Index must maintain an MTAR of at least 15 percent, while existing index constituents will be subject to a lower 10 percent threshold. Companies seeking inclusion in sector indices must meet a minimum MTAR of 7 percent.
EDC unit to upgrade 40-year-old Negros geothermal plant
By Alena Mae S. Flores
GREEN Core Geothermal Inc. plans to expand the capacity of its Palinpinon 1 Geothermal Power Plant in Valencia, Negros Oriental, by an additional 13.5 megawatts.
In documents submitted to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Green Core proposed replacing the plant’s three 37.5-megawatt turbine generators with three higher-efficiency 42-megawatt units. The upgrade would increase total installed capacity from 112.5 MW to 126 MW.
The project aims to replace aging equipment at the 40-year-old facility, improving operational reliability while supplying the Visayas grid with additional renewable power. According to the filing, the upgrade involves modifications to the turbine, generator and auxiliary systems. Work will also include updates to control and protection systems, electrical switchgear replacement, cooling tower upgrades and converting the gas-insulated switchgear to a double-bus configuration.
Through COREnergy, participating restaurants are expected to cut electricity costs by an average of 10 percent and secure fixed electricity rates for two years. The agreement also boosts the chain’s renewable energy use, with 10 percent to 15 percent of the supplied electricity coming from solar energy.
“As we continue to grow in the Visayas, we’re equally focused on improving how our restaurants operate,” said Mar-
“Businesses continue to navigate a changing energy environment, making greater choice and cost predictability increasingly important,” said Francis del Val, president of COREnergy. “Through RAP and RCOA, we are helping McDonald’s access energy solutions that respond to the needs of its growing restaurant network.”
The collaboration comes as both companies expand their footprint in the region. Cebu and Negros Island remain key growth markets for McDonald’s, which opened seven new stores in Cebu this year alone. COREnergy, backed by Cebu-based Vivant Corp. subsidiary Vivant Energy, provides local market expertise to commercial clients in the region. Alena Mae S. Flores
The project requires expanding the plant footprint slightly from 4.61 hectares to 4.62 hectares to accommodate three steam scrubbers and a hydrogen sulfide abatement system. Existing support facilities will remain unchanged and undergo routine maintenance, the company said. Green Core said the turbine upgrades will extend the plant’s operational life while boosting output without increasing steam consumption, air emissions or condensate generation. Development activities—including technical studies, permitting, equipment fabrication and installation— will run through 2028. Construction will proceed in phases to minimize disruptions to ongoing operations.
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
By Alena Mae S. Flores
TPower situation to improve by 2028
HE Department of Energy has laid the groundwork for an improved energy sector in 2027 and 2028, Secretary Sharon Garin said.
Garin said the agency is focused on completing directives President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. outlined during his State of the Nation Address last year, including the completion of 200 power plants targeted for 2028.
The department is also working on a rehabilitation master plan for Mindoro, Palawan and the Visayas islands covering generation, transmission and distribution, Garin said.
“So that’s a major work for us. It’s generation, transmission and distribution. And hopefully, we can finish that up before the president steps down,” Garin said.
“So with all the support of the LGUs, Napocor, ERC and all the agencies, I think we’ll be able to do that,” she said.
Garin said the Visayas will have a normal power supply situation by 2028 as more power plants come online.
“I think by the time the president steps down, it will be a better situation in the Visayas, because we have planned for it—except there have been quite a few occurrences, El Niños, typhoons and all the unforeseen events that have occurred recently,” she said.
She said temporary solutions are being prepared for the region, including the rollout of 200 megawatts of battery energy storage system projects.
“So despite the fact that the long-
DIGITAL COMPLIANCE. Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza meets with Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) executive-director and Undersecretary Renato Paraiso
through
on
DICT seeks P2.7-b budget to expand
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is seeking a P2.7-billion budget next year to sustain and expand the government’s eGov program, including investments in cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, platform integration and the continued development of the eGov Super App. DICT Undersecretary for e-Government David Almirol Jr. told reporters the proposed funding follows stronger institutional support under the newly enacted eGov Law.
“We discussed all of our concerns with the Office of the President, and the President is very supportive,”
connectivity
Almirol told reporters on the sidelines of the eGov Hackathons.
The eGovPH app is a one-stop-shop platform that allows Filipinos to access national and local government services through a single digital gateway.
Under the new law, Almirol said the eGov program will have a separate budget dedicated to its operations and sustainability. The measure also allows the DICT to tap the National Telecommunications Commission’s Spectrum Fund, which was previously limited to supporting the government’s Free Wi-Fi program.
The additional funding source is expected to help ensure the long-term sustainability of the government’s digital platforms.
term solution is still in 2028, DOE is working hard so the Visayas will have temporary relief,” she said.
Garin said the department has also completed other presidential directives, including those on lifeline rates and net metering.
“On the lifeline rates and netmetering policy side, we finished that even last year. On the implementation side, lifeline rates, it’s doing well because it’s automatic. You don’t need to register. As long as you have a 4Ps automatic lifeline, you don’t need to pay anything,” Garin said. She said the department has
simplified the process for net metering, but some distribution utilities, electric cooperatives and local government units are still adjusting to the new system.
“Hopefully, in a few months, it will get better,” she said. Beyond the president’s directives, Garin said the department has recorded several new accomplishments, including fast-tracking renewable energy projects driven by global oil challenges.
“The Green Energy Auction has been very successful. We’ve awarded 20 gigawatts,” she said.
IN BRIEF
weekend, requiring MWSS to shift to the low-level bypass outlet, which can deliver only 32 cubic meters per second (CMS), down from the current 46 CMS. San Jose del Monte Mayor Florida Robes called on national water agencies to recognize the gravity of the situation and expedite interventions to address the growing water shortage.
“The reduction in San Jose del Monte’s allocation will inevitably affect thousands of households. We are treating this with the highest level of urgency. The City Government has mobilized every available resource and convened the country’s key water agencies to ensure that every possible intervention is undertaken to lessen the impact on our residents,” Robes said. Othel V. Campos
Australia launches P1.6-b
PH education program
AUSTRALIA launched a P1.6-billion ($40-million) education program on Tuesday to help equip Filipino senior secondary school students with job-ready skills and support reforms to align the country’s education system with labor market demands. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong launched the Education Quality for Inclusive Prosperity (EQUIP) program in Manila. The five-year initiative will support Philippine governmentled reforms in senior secondary education and strengthen pathways from school to employment. The program aims to improve the
By Othel V. Campos
ARTIFICIAL intelligence could generate up to $50.7 billion in economic value for Philippine businesses by 2030, but companies must overcome infrastructure, integration and talent challenges to fully realize the technology’s potential, according to Kickstart Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of one of Southeast Asia’s leading conglomerates.
Kickstart Ventures general partner Mike Maté said the next phase of AI adoption will depend on stronger collaboration between corporations and startups to accelerate innovation and commercial deployment.
“This trend reinforces the critical role that partnerships between startups and corporates play in driving innovation and growth.
Corporations that engage with startups are often among the first to discover practical AI applications that could strengthen their competitive position,” Maté said.
Despite rapid AI adoption, about 65 percent of Philippine organizations remain in the pilot stage, limiting their ability to
scale AI deployments that could boost productivity, business growth and the country’s competitiveness.
Only 12 percent of Philippine organizations are currently developing AI capabilities in-house, making startup partnerships a faster route for enterprises seeking to integrate AI into their operations and future-proof their businesses.
Maté said investors are increasingly backing startups that build AI into the core of business processes instead of treating it as a standalone tool, enabling companies to address operational gaps more effectively. In the Philippines, where conglomerates operate across diverse industries, developing AI capabilities on proprietary infrastructure could also provide greater control over deployment, data governance and long-term AI strategies. Rather than relying entirely on third-party providers, enterprises can customize AI systems to their operational requirements while retaining ownership of their data, models and applications, Maté said.
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EXHIBITION. The Chamber of Thrift Banks (CTB) convenes its annual convention under the theme, CTB@52: Staying True to Customer Relevance — Through the Nexus of Traditional, Digital and Artificial Intelligence. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Deputy Governor Lyn Javier (center) serves as the honored guest speaker for the event, and led the ceremonial ribbon-cutting to open the convention’s information technology (IT) exhibition. Joining her are (from left) CTB executive-director Suzanne Felix, CTB trustee/convention chair and City Savings Bank president Manuel Santiago Jr.,
‘Growing Greener the Luxent Way’ initiative marks hotel’s 14 years of hospitality
By Phoebe Kate Angeles and Julienne Andrea Chua
AS Luxent Hotel celebrated its 14th Anniversary this July, they exhibited their full commitment to environmental sustainability. This was done through its Corporate Social Responsibility Tree Planting Activity, “Growing Greener the Luxent Way,” that was held at La Mesa Eco Park in partnership with the Million Trees Foundation, Inc.
This initiative is more than just an anniversary event as it reflects the hotel’s mission to give back to the community and protect the environment. The activity was spearheaded by the marketing and human resource department as they brought together their employees from different departments from front office to kitchen. This demonstrates that achieving sustainability is a shared responsibility of the organization.
“For 14 years, we have nurtured relationships, welcomed guests, and helped memories grow. We will be doing the same thing for our environment today.” said Melanie Siy-Pagkalinawan, the General Manager of Luxent Hotel in her opening speech. “For every tree that we plant represents a deep root of community or a deep root of gratitude to our community that supported us, and a green leaf of promise for a sustainable future.”
Dinosaurs – The new status symbol
By Robert Harland
WHEN billionaires scramble for the latest status symbol, it isn’t a yacht or a private jet that turns heads — it’s a dinosaur. Fossils of these prehistoric giants have become the ultimate prize at auction, commanding sums that rival fine art. The latest example came in New York on July 14, 2026, when Sotheby’s sold a mounted Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton nicknamed “Gus” for $50.1 million. Measuring 38 feet long and 12½ feet tall, Gus is one of the largest and most complete T. rex specimens ever discovered, with 183 fossilized bones unearthed in South Dakota in 2021. The sale shattered the previous record of $44.6 million paid for a Stegosaurus in 2024, and far surpassed “Stan,” another T. rex that fetched $32 million in 2020. The appeal is obvious: dinosaurs are rare, dramatic and irreplaceable. They are not just relics of deep time but cultural icons, tangible proof of a vanished world. For scientists, they unlock secrets of evolution and extinction. For collectors, they
are trophies, investments and conversation pieces that signal wealth and taste on a grand scale. Yet controversy surrounds these sales. Paleontologists warn that specimens like Gus should remain in museums, accessible for research and public education. Instead, the United States’ unique property laws allow fossils found on private land to be sold into private hands, fueling a booming market where dinosaurs are treated as luxury collectibles. Sadly, the Philippines has no dinosaur fossils to offer. Geological evidence shows the islands were largely underwater during the Jurassic period, leaving behind marine fossils and later mammal remains instead. It is a pity—one dinosaur skeleton unearthed here could make its finder a multi-millionaire overnight. Still, the fascination endures. Even without local discoveries, the global market proves that dinosaurs remain the ultimate status symbol. Millions of years after their extinction, they continue to rule—not the earth, but the imagination and the auction block.
With the guidance of Million Trees Foundation, participants planted Malabulak with the scientific name of Bombax Ceiba which is a deciduous native Philippine tree known for its vivid, flame-colored red flowers and cotton-like seed fibers. For each tree planted represents a meaningful step toward environmental preservation and a greener future for the next generation.
“Pinili natin si La Mesa Eco Park because this is the nearest and Luxent Hotel is located in Quezon City.” Gian Valiente, the Marketing Communications Manager of Luxent said in choosing La Mesa Eco Park.
“Alam ko na makakatulong siya in terms of environment, as well as, para hindi magbaha around Quezon City.”
The Million Trees Foundation has its advocacy called the Annual Million Trees Challenge that started in 2017 by the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewage System. This is to protect the seven watersheds that supply and sustain Metro Manila and surrounding provinces, namely: Angat, Ipo, La Mesa, Upper Marikina, Kaliwa, Umiray, and Laguna de Bay.
“The goal was really ambitious, which is to plant a million trees every year.” said Melandrew T. Velasco, the President and Executive Director of the Million Trees Foundation.
With this, private and public partnerships with Million Trees Foundation equates to the protection of these watersheds because it cannot be done by the government alone according to Velasco. “…one tree, or ten trees, or fifty trees, or a hundred trees being planted by Luxent, your group, and your employees, and other supporters or volunteers, could impact a lot this generation and the next generation.”
Korea, Philippines reaffirm partnership to strengthen rice supply chain
THE Republic of Korea and the Philippines reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the country’s rice sector through continued Official Development Assistance (ODA) cooperation during the Workshop on Project Achievements and Future Directions for Enhancing the Rice Supply Chain in the Philippines held Thursday at the Luxent Hotel in Quezon City.
Hosted by the Global Agriculture Policy Institute (GAPI), the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), and the National Food Authority (NFA), the workshop was organized by Orient Integrated Development Consultants, Inc. (OIDCI) and supported by the Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Korea Rural Community Corporation (KRC).
The event gathered officials from the DA, PhilRice, NFA, academia, and development partners to review the accomplishments of the Korea ODA project and discuss future collaboration.
The program opened with welcoming remarks from Dr. John C. de Leon, Executive Director of DA-PhilRice. Representing NFA Administrator Dr. Larry R. Lacson, Corporate Planning and Management Services Department (CPMSD) Manager Mario G. Andrada delivered the Administrator’s congratulatory message.
The workshop highlighted the achievements of the Korea ODA project, “Improving the Rice Supply Chain to Ensure Quality of Seeds and Milled Rice for Distribution and Buffer Stocks in the Philippines,” which supported the establishment of modern rice seed processing facilities and cold-storage seed warehouses in PhilRice stations in Muñoz, Nueva Ecija; San Mateo, Isabela; and Batac, Ilocos Norte, alongside capacitybuilding and information systems for seed and buffer stock management.
In his opening address, Dr. Byung Ki Lee, President of GAPI and Project Manager, underscored that the workshop was more than a venue for presenting project accomplishments. He said it reflected the enduring partnership between Korea and the Philippines in promoting agricultural innovation, food security, and institutional capacity building. Dr. Lee emphasized that the project demonstrates how bilateral cooperation can help address rice supply challenges while laying the foundation for stronger agricultural collaboration between the two countries.
Delivering the keynote message, DA Undersecretary Christopher V. Morales described the Korea ODA initiative as a partnership founded on trust, shared learning,
and a common commitment to food security. He noted that beyond infrastructure development, the project strengthened seed systems, postharvest facilities, information management, and institutional capacities, complementing the government’s efforts under the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program and the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund. Morales also stressed that the project’s true legacy lies in sustained knowledge sharing and continued Philippines-Korea cooperation, including the proposed Digital Agriculture Transformation through Enhanced Technology (DA-TECH) initiative. The technical sessions featured presentations by Mr. Jiwan Yoon of GAPI on project implementation experiences, Mr. Herman Z. Ongkiko, President and CEO of OIDCI, on the project’s outcomes and achievements, and Dr. Eduardo Jimmy P. Quilang, Deputy Executive Director of PhilRice, who presented the proposed DATECH follow-up project. A panel discussion involving representatives from the NFA, PhilRice, KOPIA Philippines Center, and OIDCI concluded the workshop, reinforcing the shared commitment to sustaining the gains of Korea-Philippines agricultural cooperation.
Luxent Hotel’s staff going back after planting saplings for a photo opportunity
Participants planting their own tree sapling.
President and executive director of the Million Trees Foundation explaining the importan
From left: Mr. Herman Z. Ongkiko (OIDCI), Dr. Byung Ki Lee (GAPI), Engr. Christopher V. Morales (DA-OURID), Dr. John C. de Leon (PhilRice), and Dr. Mario G. Andrada (NFA-CPMSD).
Benmar Ferrer, an instructor of Million Trees Foundation demonstrated how to handle tree sapling.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026 lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
‘Mara
Clara’ scene costs
By Jasper Valdez
SEASONED actress Susan Africa has honored her P5,000 reward after a college student found an old teleserye scene showing her coughing.
Africa issued the challenge after questioning her longrunning “Star for All Ubo” reputation, which she believed was largely a Mandela effect. She asked viewers to produce evidence that she had coughed in a television series.
“ Pakitaan niyo ako ng video na umuubo ako sa teleserye and I will give five thousand pesos,” she said during the Blood vs Duty finale media conference.
Sheena Rose Traifalgar , a third-year college student from Iloilo, later uncovered a clip from Episode 714 of Mara Clara , where Africa’s sickly character coughs.
“Yes, we have a winner! Ms. Sheena Rose Traifalgar, a 3rdyear college student in Iloilo, was the first to submit a video of a scene from Mara Clara where I was coughing,” Africa announced on Facebook.
The actress sent the prize on July 19, two days after launching the challenge. Traifalgar said she plans to use the money for her studies.
Africa conceded that she occasionally coughed in past roles but maintained that it did not happen in all her teleseryes.
ENTERING showbiz can be both thrilling and challenging for young actors, but the rising stars of GMA Afternoon Prime’s You’re My Favorite Song are gaining valuable lessons from their seasoned co-stars.
Gen Z performers Heath Jornales, Marco Masa, Clifford, and Caprice Cayetano share the screen with veteran actors Boboy Garrovillo, James Blanco, Katya Santos, and Wilma Doesnt, creating a mix of fresh energy and industry experience.
James Blanco, who now embraces his “tito” role on set, said working with the younger cast reminds him of his own early years in showbiz.
“Nakaka-excite kasi ang taas ng energy ng mga bata, so kailangan sabayan mo sila. Ganun din ako kakulit [before], parang ’di nababawasan ng energy,” James shared.
Katya Santos, who considers the series a dream project, described the set as a family-like environment. She plays Mama Bebe, a mother who becomes a virtual assistant for her daughter Angel, portrayed by Caprice.
SHOWBIZ
Maja Salvador of f icially back in Kapamilya lot
Very Wang Nickie Wang
MAJA Salvador confirmed that all of her future acting projects will now be with ABSCBN.
Speaking during a solo press conference organized by Dreamscape Entertainment on July 17, Salvador described her newest project, Someone, Someday sort of homecoming.
“Alam kong I’m home,” she said. “There are many reasons why I accepted this project, and ang gusto kong makatrabaho sina Kathryn and James.”
The actress stars alongside Kathryn Bernardo and James Reid in the series, where she plays Abi Mercado, a woman whose admiration for Kathryn’s character develops into a dangerous obsession.
“Of course, when you’re a fan, you’ll do everything for the person you admire,” Maja said. “But the question is, how far are you willing to take your devotion as a fan?”
Maja noted that the role immediately appealed to her because of its layered characterization.
“I’m grateful because these are exactly the kinds of roles we’re always looking for, the ones that truly challenge you as an actor.”
She described Abi as far from a one-dimensional antagonist, pointing to the character’s difficult relationship with her abusive and ailing mother.
“That’s why I love this role. She’s complex and multi-dimensional, and I think viewers will both love her and hate her.”
While stopping short of revealing how Abi fits into the overall story, Maja hinted that the character plays a crucial role.
“It’s exciting because she’s a very important part of the story. I was even told she’s a pivotal character, and I agree. But, of course, I can’t say why or how. You’ll just have to watch.”
Someone, Someday also marks Maja’s first acting project since becoming a mother, an experience she believes has changed the way she approaches emotional scenes.
“After giving birth, this is the first show I’ve done. When I returned to work, I surprised myself because I found a deeper emotional well to draw from.”
Despite sharing several intense scenes with Kathryn, Maja dismissed any suggestion of competition between them.
“Our set is very collaborative, and my co-
actors are very generous. Nobody lets their ego get in the way or acts like they’re the bigger star.” She also praised Kathryn’s leadership on set.
“Kath is the captain of our show, and she’s such a great leader. She’s always saying, ‘Okay, let’s do this.’ Everything is very collaborative, and the atmosphere on set is wonderful.”
“There’s no trying to outshine one another. We each have our own scenes and our own moments, and when those opportunities are given to you, you have to make the most of them,” Maja added. ABS-CBN has released teaser videos introducing Abi, showing her secretly stalking Billy before their relationship spirals into a violent confrontation.
Directed by Chad V. Vidanes and Dolly Dulu , Someone, Someday also stars James Reid, Dimples Romana, Rowell Santiago, Rita Avila, McCoy De Leon, Daniela Stranner, and newcomer Migz Casimiro
The series premieres on Netflix on July 24, followed by iWant on July 25, before airing on July 27 on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, TV5, ALLTV2, Kapamilya Online Live, and TFC.
Maja Salvador takes on Abi Mercado, a pivotal character whose admiration turns dangerous in the series
‘Someone, Someday’
“It’s another family na magaan katrabaho I’m excited kasi sa first taping na na-experience ko, nakuha ko ’yung gaan, saya, at fun na set na pinagdasal ko,” Katya said.
She also praised Caprice’s talent, noting that the young actress brings the sincerity needed for their mother-daughter scenes.
OPM icon Boboy Garrovillo, who plays Lolo Xavi, expressed confidence in the young actors’ potential.
“The future is so bright for them. They can reach the stars, some will reach the moon,” he shared.
Boboy encouraged the young cast to continue developing their craft and pursue longevity in the industry through dedication and continuous learning.
Wilma Doesnt, who portrays Lady Mara, also emphasized the importance of professionalism, reminding the young actors to value their co-stars’ time.
“Be professional. I-value natin ’yung time lalo na ng mga kasama natin,” she advised.
With a cast that blends experience and fresh talent, “You’re My Favorite Song” aims to deliver a story about dreams, family, and perseverance.
“Maraming makaka-relate dito kasi lahat tayo nangarap magkaroon ng magandang
buhay. Dito mapapakita natin paano ba maaabot ’yung dream na ’yon, and ano ba ’yung kailangang gawin para maabot ’yon with a kind heart, with a pure heart,” Katya shared.
“Hindi mo dapat palampasin ang You’re My Favorite Song dahil sa mga nakakakilig na eksena,” Wilma added.
You’re My Favorite Song airs weekdays at 4:00 p.m. on GMA Afternoon Prime, with livestreaming available on Kapuso Stream. Global Pinoys can watch via GMA Pinoy TV.
(right) encourages Caprice Cayetano and the young cast to keep sharpening their craft as they build lasting careers in showbiz
A forgotten ‘Mara Clara’ moment gives Susan Africa’s ‘Star for All Ubo’ label fresh proof
James Blanco (right) draws from his own early years in showbiz as he works with the younger cast of ‘You’re My Favorite Song’
‘You’re My Favorite Song’ brings together seasoned and fresh talent in a story about ambition, family, and perseverance
Boboy Garrovillo
A slice of Japan in the heart of BGC
with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines. Inspired by Tanabata, Japan’s Star Festival, the celebration highlights cultural traditions, sharing them with shoppers through a series of events running until August.
By Angelica Villanueva
FOR Japanese residents living far from home, familiar ingredients, seasonal traditions, and a comforting meal can make a foreign city feel less distant. Filipino visitors, meanwhile, gain a glimpse of Japan through the food, customs, and experiences gathered under one roof in Bonifacio Global City.
Those everyday encounters took center stage as Mitsukoshi BGC celebrated its third anniversary on July 16, coinciding
Speaking during the anniversary program, Yokota Naobumi, minister for economic affairs at the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, said the occasion reflects the relationship the two countries have built over the past seven decades.
“The friendship between our two countries is built not only by governments and businesses, but also by people-to-people connections and everyday exchanges, such as those that take place here at Mitsukoshi BGC,” Yokota said.
The diplomat, who lives in Bonifacio Global City, said he visits the mall almost every week to buy familiar Japanese ingredients and enjoy authentic meals.
“For many Japanese residents, Mitsukoshi BGC has become a place that gives us a sense of home,” he continued, adding that the mall also gives Filipinos opportunities to experience Japanese culture through seasonal events, products, and cultural activities.
Federal Land Inc. chairman Alfred V. Ty said the project grew from a decade-old vision shared by Federal Land, Nomura Real Estate Development, and Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings to create a place where Japanese and Filipino culture could come together.
Ty said the philosophy of omotenashi, the Japanese tradition of treating guests as though they were
entering one’s own home, remains part of the mall’s identity.
“It’s a big word, a philosophy that is not easy to translate into words but can only be described through one’s own emotions,” he said.
Mitsukoshi BGC general manager Masahiko Yoshizawa said the anniversary also serves as a preview of what visitors can expect in the coming months. Plans for the mall’s fourth year include additional Japanese experiences, new collaborations, and retail concepts to strengthen its cultural offerings.
The celebration features Tanabata wish stations, a maguro cutting demonstration led by Japanese fish dealer Kosuke Nakaoka , yukata dressing sessions, papercraft and pottery workshops, artisan pop-ups, and Japanese-inspired games with raffle prizes.
Through familiar food, seasonal traditions, and shared experiences, Mitsukoshi BGC has grown into a space where Japanese and Filipino cultures meet in everyday life.
THE Apollo Gallery of Paris’s Louvre Museum, where French crown jewels worth 88 million euros were stolen in 2025 in a brazen heist, will reopen to the public on Wednesday.
But no jewels will be on display, and it will revert to its 17thcentury function as a state gallery, an informed source told AFP Monday.
“The gallery will open on Wednesday,” the source said, confirming a report in Le Parisien newspaper, and added Culture Minister Catherine Pegard would be present.
In an interview with Le Parisien, the museum’s president, Christophe Leribault , said the “collections and precious objects” that had been displayed earlier had been removed.
On October 19, 2025, robbers disguised as construction workers entered the gallery using a truck-mounted lift in the morning and stole eight crown jewels, which remain missing.
For the jewelry that was not stolen, “we are going to create a secure room, a vault with no windows, in another part of the museum,” Leribault said.
“It’s a major construction project, and we have to find the ideal location. And the funding,” he added.
The Louvre burglary stunned the world and revealed major security lapses at the world’s most visited museum, visited by around nine million people annually.
The theft also triggered an internal crisis at the Louvre, leading to the replacement of its president Laurence des Cars by Leribault.
Security issues at the Louvre had been pushed to the background in recent years, a parliamentary commission on the security of museums in France said in mid-May. AFP
FOUR Filipino artists turned New Era’s iconic caps into wearable works of art as the brand wrapped up its NE PH CO11ECTIVE showcase at Uptown Mall in Bonifacio Global City, celebrating the 11th anniversary of New Era Philippines. Held from July 14 to 17, the post-anniversary event featured original designs by Nicolo Nimor, Lei Melendres, Raco Ruiz, and Jethro Olba each interpreting one of the collection’s core themes: authenticity, collaboration, pride, and individuality. The project underscored New Era’s ties to sports, music, fashion, and street culture while giving the artists creative freedom to express their own visual identities through the brand’s signature headwear.
Melendres explored collaboration through intricate doodles and interconnected imagery.
Multimedia artist Raco Ruiz captured pride with playful visuals influenced by nostalgia and cartoons, while Manila-based designer Jethro Olba
Cebu-based artist Nicolo Nimor, also known as Nick Automatic, showcased bold graphics and streetwear-inspired characters to represent authenticity. Laguna-based illustrator Lei
Mitsukoshi BGC’s Kokeshi doll
brand-new outfit inspired by the colors of the Japanese and Philippine flags
Officials from Mitsukoshi BGC, Federal Land, the Embassy of Japan, and partner organizations lead the mall’s third anniversary celebration with a ceremonial sake barrel opening
The Japanese mall’s anniversary celebration also showcases authentic flavors and seasonal traditions
Tanabata-inspired lanterns, wish stations, and Japanese-themed displays transform Mitsukoshi BGC as part of its month-long anniversary festivities
WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
N O W & N E X T
The region finds its rhythm
SM City Manila hosts ‘Sulong SEAPop’ music and culture caravan
By Nickie Wang
MUSIC , food, and cultural traditions from across Southeast Asia filled SM City Manila as the SULONG SEAPop Music and Culture Caravan opened on July 18, joining the Philippines’ celebration of ASEAN 2026 and this year’s Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino.
Building on the momentum of the ASEAN-Korea Music Festival, the free public event gathered artists, cultural advocates, and audiences for a day of performances and interactive activities celebrating the region’s shared heritage. Visitors joined ASEANthemed lectures, indigenous music workshops, gastronomy demonstrations, and cultural exhibits before capping the day with a SEA Pop concert featuring performers from the Philippines, Cambodia, and Thailand. The
program also included the SEAPop Talent Competition and appearances by Thai drama personalities. The event also launched the ASEAN Passport Stamp Rally, an initiative encouraging the public to attend
Ikebana, student artworks featured in Sunshine Place fundraising exhibit
IKEBANA floral arrangements and artworks by students of Sunshine Place are on display at the ninth edition of Coloring Lives, a fundraising exhibit running until July 26 at The Podium in Mandaluyong City.
Proceeds from this year’s exhibit will benefit Nazareth Bahay ng Pag-ibig, a home for abandoned elderly women in San Pablo City, Laguna.
The annual exhibit features works created by students and graduates of Sunshine Place’s Ikebana classes alongside pieces from its Intermediate and Advanced Art, Kids and Beginners Art, Watercolor, Porcelain Painting, and Decoupage programs.
“Coloring Lives is nine years of a community that chose to create and to give,” Sunshine Place president Lizanne Uychaco said. “Our students come to learn art.
What they find is a second home, a place where they are seen, where their work is taken seriously, and where showing up every week means something.”
Founded by Fr.
Reyes Bahay ng Pagibig began operations in 1991 to care for abandoned and homeless elderly women. The institution
ASEAN 2026 activities throughout the year. Participants received commemorative passports that can be stamped at participating events, with those completing the rally eligible for exclusive prizes.
Guests also explored food tastings, games, merchandise booths, and cultural showcases highlighting the traditions of Southeast Asian nations.
Organizers said the caravan aims to strengthen regional ties by creating
opportunities for cultural exchange through music and the arts while encouraging Filipinos to learn more about their ASEAN neighbors. The SULONG SEAPop Music and
Culture Caravan is among a series of activities lined up for ASEAN 2026, continuing the country’s year-long celebration of Southeast Asian culture and cooperation.
‘CCP National Theatre Live’ returns with acclaimed British stage productions
THE Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), in partnership with National Theatre Live and Ayala Malls Cinemas, will launch the third season of CCP National Theatre Live , offering Filipino audiences another year of acclaimed British stage productions on the big screen from July 2026 to July 2027.
also provides food, clothing, medicine, and temporary shelter to individuals and families affected by natural disasters.
Since its launch in 2018, the Coloring Lives initiative has raised funds for several elderly care institutions, including San Lorenzo Ruiz Home for the Elderly, Kanlungan ni Maria Home for the Aged in Antipolo, the National Center for Mental Health, and Josefheim Elderly Care Community in Rizal.
The exhibit is open to the public daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. through July 26.
The program features filmed performances from some of London’s leading theaters, giving local audiences access to internationally celebrated productions without leaving the country. Following its previous runs, the program expands its reach with screenings at Ayala Greenbelt in Makati, Ayala Vertis North in Quezon City, and Ayala Nuvali in Laguna.
titles are George Bernard Shaw ’s Mrs. Warren’s Profession on Sept. 29, David Ireland ’s The Fifth Step and Danny Boyle ’s Frankenstein in October and November, and Shakespeare’s Hamlet on Dec. 22. The 2027 lineup includes The Playboy of the Western World and Phoebe Waller-Bridge ’s Fleabag in January, Arthur Miller ’s All My Sons in February, Misanthrope in March, Les Liaisons Dangereuses in
The season opens on July 28 with The Audience at Greenbelt Cinema and Inter Alia at Vertis North and Nuvali. The productions will switch venues on Aug. 25.
Greenbelt, Ayala Vertis North, and Ayala Nuvali.
CCP said the initiative is part of its continuing effort to make world-class theater more accessible to Filipino audiences by presenting live stage productions adapted for cinema. Tickets and screening updates are available through the CCP’s official website and social media channels.
‘Coloring Lives’ exhibit features Ikebana floral arrangements and artworks created
‘The Audience’ opens the third season of CCP National Theatre Live, bringing acclaimed British stage productions to
The caravan aims to strengthen regional ties by creating opportunities for cultural exchange through music and the arts
Talahib delivers a performance at the SULONG SEAPop Music and Culture Caravan
The SULONG SEAPop Music and Culture Caravan celebrates ASEAN 2026 and Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino with performances, workshops, and exhibit
The event featured artists from the Philippines, Cambodia, and Thailand, and launched the ASEAN Passport Stamp Rally
