Manila Standard - 2026 July 25 - Saturday

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Trace the Good Food Manila Standard Cravings’ 3rd Anniversary Supplement

VOL. XL • NO. 161 • 5 SECTIONS 24 PAGES • P20 • SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026 •

FRESH ATTACK. This handout screengrab taken on July 24, 2026 and released by the

Philippine Coast Guard shows a Chinese Coast Guard ship (back) firing water cannon on a Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) ship near Scarborough Shoal (Panatag Shoal), the third confrontation between the two sides this week. Inset photo shows a member of the ‘Filipinos Do Not Yield Movement’ staging a lightning protest along Vicente Sotto Street near the Philippine International Convention Center to condemn China's continued aggression, harassment, bullying, intimidation, and racist attacks against Filipinos. Norman Cruz, AFP

US slaps 12.5% tariff on PH; biz groups fret Child labor concerns cited; Exporters warn of slowdown

By Darwin G. Amojelar and Vito Barcelo HE United States slapped a fresh 12.5-percent tariff on most Philippine exports, alarming local business groups that warned the move could undermine the country's competitiveness and disrupt trade and manufacturing as Manila moves to negotiate lower duties.

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Officials said the Philippines is preparing to negotiate with the US after Washington raised its existing 10-percent tariff on most PH exports over concerns that imported goods used in local supply chains may have been produced through forced labor. The new US tariffs took effect Friday as part of a fresh round of trade measures targeting 60 economies. The duties replace an earlier global tariff announced by US President Donald Trump.

The Philippines, Washington's only treaty ally in Southeast Asia, was subjected to a 12.5-percent tariff after a previous 19-percent levy imposed in 2025 was struck down by the US Supreme Court. That was later replaced by a temporary 10-percent surcharge that expired Friday. George Barcelon, chairman of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), said businesses were caught off guard by the latest US Next page action.

ESCALATING conflict in the Middle East rattled global financial markets on Friday, sending Asian stocks lower, pushing oil prices above $100 a barrel, weakening the Philippine peso to a record low, and raising expectations of another sharp increase in local fuel prices.

By Katrina Manubay and Rex Espiritu THE Philippines accused China's Coast Guard of blasting a Filipino government vessel with a water cannon near Bajo de Masinloc (Panatag Shoal) on Friday, the third of such confrontation between the two sides this week. Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it is waiting for official reports from relevant government agencies on the incident. According to Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesman for the West Philippine Sea, CCG vessel 3107 conducted a "reckless" maneuver, coming within seven meters of BRP Datu Paduhinog and hitting the ship with a Next page water cannon blast.

‘OMB BEST TO PROBE TAGUIG GHOST INFRA’ NEWS / A3

HAND SHAKE.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. shakes hands with a humanoid robot during his visit at the Converge ICT Solutions Angeles Data Center in Pampanga on Friday, July 24, 2026. Joining the President were DICT Secretary Henry Aguda, Converge CEO Dennis Anthony Uy, and other government officials. PPA Pool

Oil soars past $100/barrel, drops peso to new low, hikes pump prices By Alena Mae Flores and Thony Rose Lesaca

China Coast Guard fires water cannon at PH ship anew

Asian markets tracked a Wall Street selloff as investors reacted to a surge in crude prices, renewed concerns over inflation, and uncertainty surrounding the global economy. The latest escalation came after the United States launched fresh strikes on Iran following attacks by Tehranbacked Houthi rebels on oil tankers in the Red Sea, opening a new front Next page

7 in 10 Pinoys believe VP should answer impeach charges—SWS By Katrina Manubay and Maricel Cruz SEVEN in 10 Filipinos (70 percent) believe Vice President Sara Duterte should address the impeachment charges against her and respond to all allegations related to the corruption complaints, according to a Social Weather Stations survey conducted days before her impeachment trial. Next page

PBBM’s SONA Ex-Speaker ready to face any to delve on gains Ombudsman complaint—lawyer over the past year By Maricel V. Cruz By Charles Dantes and Vince Lopez

TIGHTER SECURITY. Police have set up checkpoints along the Batasan-San Mateo Road in Barangay Banaba, San Mateo, Rizal as part of heightened security operations leading up to the President's fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday. Manny Palmero

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said his upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) will primarily serve as an accounting of his administration's accomplishments over the past year. Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police called on rally organizers to protect their own ranks by preventing provocateurs from disrupting peaceful demonstrations during the fifth SONA Next page on Monday.

FORMER Speaker Martin Romualdez is prepared to answer any complaint filed against him, his spokesperson Atty. Elaine Atienza said. Atienza issued the statement following reports that a special panel of investigators from the Office of the Ombudsman filed preliminary investigation complaints for plunder, direct and indirect bribery, graft, and violations of the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) against Romualdez and several others over the flood control controversy. Romualdez’s lawyers likewise de-

manded the Bureau of Immigration retract and apologize its claim that Romualdez planned to leave the country. In a demand letter dated July 24, 2026 sent by Solis Medina Fajardo & Malilong Law Offices and addressed to Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, Romualdez’s lawyers also called on the BI to disclose the source of the alleged information, explain why it was publicly disclosed despite the lack of verification, identify the officials who authorized its release, and withdraw any statement suggesting that the former Speaker intended to flee the country. Next page

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NEWS

SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

‘Kiyapo’ makes landfall over Camiguin Island The center of the tropical storm was last estimated over the coastal waters of Calayan Island, moving west-northwestward at 30 kilometers per hour (kph).

According to PAGASA's 5 p.m. tropical cyclone bulletin on Friday, Kiyapo had maximum sustained winds of 85 kph near the center and gustiness of

up to 115 kph. It will continue moving west-northwestward until Sunday over the Luzon Strait and the West Philippine Sea before turning northwestward to northward for the rest of the forecast period. On the forecast track, the tropical storm will exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Friday evening or Saturday morning. While moving over the West Philippine Sea, Kiyapo may undergo rapid intensification and reach typhoon category before making landfall over southern mainland China. Afterward, it

US...

Philippines would seek to lower the tariff to at least 10 percent and would negotiate "on the basis that we will remove the child labor goods from our list of exports if it is proven to be so." He noted that the 12.5-percent tariff remains significantly lower than the previous 19-percent rate that had been invalidated by the US Supreme Court. The United States is the Philippines' largest export market, accounting for about 16 percent of the country's merchandise exports. Electronic components, which comprise roughly two-thirds of Philippine exports, have previously been exempted from similar tariffs, although it remains unclear which products will be exempt under the latest measure. Exporters: Uncertainty could disrupt exports The Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (PHILEXPORT) said uncertainty over the tariff's implementation could temporarily disrupt exports and manufacturing. PHILEXPORT president Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. said it is still too early to determine the full impact because the government must first clarify which products are covered and how competing exporters in neighboring countries will be affected. "We have to understand first how it will affect us and, secondly, how it will affect our competitors in the region. Only then can we determine the real impact," Ortiz-Luis said. He said the lack of clarity regarding exemptions is creating uncertainty among exporters and overseas buyers. "In the immediate term, because of

the uncertainty, there will be disruptions," Ortiz-Luis said. "Companies do not want to manufacture unless they are sure of what they are facing. Buyers will also likely hold back their orders until they understand the situation," he added. Ortiz-Luis urged the government to continue engaging US authorities to seek exemptions or clarify the tariff's implementation. He also disputed the implication that Philippine exports are produced using forced labor. "They know we don't have forced labor," he said. Ortiz-Luis said the issue may instead stem from imported raw materials or intermediate goods sourced from China that US authorities suspect were produced using forced labor. "If your materials come from China and they believe those were produced using forced labor, then Philippine exports could also be affected," he said. Despite the uncertainty, he expressed confidence that Philippine exports can still meet their targets while negotiations continue. In a separate statement, PHILEXPORT said it supports global efforts to eliminate forced labor but argued that blanket tariffs are not the most effective solution. "The Philippines has long been a responsible trading partner of the United States and remains firmly committed to internationally recognized labor standards," Ortiz-Luis said. He warned that the additional duty could reduce the competitiveness of Philippine products, particularly those of micro, small and medium enter-

prises, and affect sectors such as furniture, garments, processed food, coconut products, handicrafts, electronics, marine products and other value-added manufactures. The group urged the Philippine government to seek a review or exemption of the tariff while strengthening regulatory measures to demonstrate the country's commitment to preventing forced labor in global supply chains. Agencies to probe ‘forced labor’ goods Meanwhile, the Department of Labor and Employment, DTI, and Department of Finance signed a joint administrative order establishing an inter-agency committee to investigate imported goods suspected of being produced through forced labor. The committee, to be chaired by the DTI and vice-chaired by the DOLE, will receive reports, investigate allegations, and recommend appropriate government action. Its members include the Bureau of Customs, Board of Investments, and Philippine Economic Zone Authority. Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino said the agreement strengthens the country's commitment to protecting workers' rights, promoting fair employment, and supporting free and fair trade. Officials said the new mechanism will improve information sharing among agencies, facilitate investigations of suspicious shipments, and help the Philippines meet its international commitments on labor rights while protecting consumers, workers and legitimate businesses from unfair trade practices. With AFP

US dollar, weakening by 9.7 centavos from Thursday's close of 61.75, according to the Bankers Association of the Philippines. The peso opened at 61.80 before slipping to an intraday low of 61.85. Reyes Tacandong & Co. senior adviser Jonathan Ravelas said the peso weakened as the dollar strengthened on rising oil prices and renewed inflation concerns triggered by the conflict and fresh US tariffs. "Expect the currency to range 61.70 [to] 62.00 levels in the near term," Ravelas said. Oil industry players also warned that the renewed hostilities are likely to trigger another round of substantial fuel price hikes next week. "The news is fueling worries because prices are reacting to supply

disruption concerns," Jetti Petroleum president Leo Bellas said. "With no clear sign of de-escalation in the Middle East conflict, the threat in the Red Sea has expanded the conflict beyond the Persian Gulf and will cause world oil prices to increase further." Fuel prices to rise by at least P6 per liter Based on four-day trading in the Mean of Platts Singapore and foreign exchange movements, an industry source told Manila Standard diesel prices could rise by P6 to P6.50 per liter next week, while gasoline prices may increase by P5.50 to P6 per liter. Continued fighting could push adjustments to as much as P7 per liter. The source said world oil prices have rebounded sharply as supply disruption concerns intensified, with tanker traffic

through the Strait of Hormuz remaining severely constrained and security risks spreading to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. "As the Gulf is a major source of diesel and tanker flows were only beginning to recover before hostilities flared again, renewed military strikes and a reciprocal blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by the US and Iran have raised fresh supply concerns," the source said. "Refinery disruptions and further constraints on Middle Eastern and Russian supply are keeping middle distillate supplies tight and prices elevated." The source added that gasoline prices have also strengthened due to tight global inventories, strong demand, and concerns over delayed recovery of Middle Eastern exports despite easing Chinese export restrictions. With AFP

and provocative actions. Otherwise, all consequences arising therefrom will be borne by the Philippine side," China Coast Guard spokesperson Jiang Lue said in a statement. China's actions were conducted in a "professional and standard manner that leaves no room for criticism,” foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian added. The week opened with a clash at Ayungin Shoal that saw Chinese sailors clubbing a Filipino Navy serviceman over the head with a baton, necessitating a medical evacuation. The incident, which Beijing again claimed was instigated by Philippine personnel, sparked a round of condemnation from Manila and its allies. The Armed Forces of the Philippines said the recent incidents undermine peace and international maritime rules. "The China Coast Guard (CCG)'s dangerous and coercive actions against Philippine civilian and government vessels engaged in a legitimate mission undermine regional peace and disregard international maritime rules," AFP spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea retired Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said. With AFP

Ex-Speaker... ‘Evidence will prove his case’ Atienza said the Leyte lawmaker has consistently maintained his readiness to address any allegations through the proper legal process. “As we have said before, Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez is ready to face any complaint against him,” she said. The complaint asks prosecutors to conduct a preliminary investigation to determine whether there is probable cause to bring charges before the court. She said Romualdez believes that a fair proceeding based on evidence would establish his side of the case. “We believe that given a fair fight and impartial judgment based on evidence, Rep. Romualdez will be able to prove his case,” Atienza said. “We simply ask the public to let the process prevail and the evidence decide,” she added. ‘Patently false claims’ As this developed, Romualdez’s lawyers said the BI’s public statement

unfairly created the impression that Romualdez was trying to evade the jurisdiction of the Sandiganbayan. BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval earlier said the bureau had “received information that there were plans that did not push through,” a statement later cited by the Office of the Ombudsman in publicly accusing Romualdez of attempting to leave the Philippines. “By their plain import, the confirmation attributed to the Bureau creates the unmistakable public impression that Rep. Romualdez attempted to flee the country to evade the jurisdiction of Sandiganbayan and the pending criminal investigation against him. This is a grave accusation with no basis in fact, and it directly undermines Rep. Romualdez’s constitutional right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty,” the letter addressed to Viado read. The letter likewise stressed that issues involving Romualdez’s travel remain before the courts and should not be the subject of public speculation by government agencies.

dent to the public as to what has happened since the last SONA," the President said. "I will make sure that people know all of the things that we have done to navigate this very difficult period in our history, where we are buffeted by all of these external forces," he added. Mr. Marcos also said the government had adjusted its policies to cope with global headwinds and argued that

those measures had produced positive results. "But nonetheless, our response has been good, and we have had to make adjustments, but those adjustments have been effective and have served their purpose," he said. "And I know that it has helped people weather this storm and continue to weather this storm until things hopefully normalize.”

The President said he was still revising his speech, maintaining a practice of making last-minute changes before delivering the annual address to Congress. "I'm never done. Until one hour before the SONA, I'm still changing it," he said. "On the whole, I would say the actual language is, we're just fixing it up and making sure that it's not too long or too short, that we have everything that we want to talk about already."

By Rio N. Araja, Vince Lopez, and Rex Espiritu

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HE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on late Friday afternoon announced that Tropical Storm "Kiyapo" (international name: Noul) has made landfall over Camiguin Island in Calayan, Cagayan.

From A1

"We are very concerned and surprised by this new imposition of 12.5 percent, which is very high," Barcelon said. "It will make industries less competitive," he said, adding that he expects the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to appeal the new levy. Basis for tariff 'very unclear' Barcelon also questioned the basis for the tariff, saying the child labor concerns cited by the United States were "very unclear." A 2024 report by the US Department of Labor listed Philippine products such as coconuts and copra meal among goods with "inputs produced with child labor," while noting that countries often appear on the list because they are more transparent in addressing such issues. Trade Secretary Christina Roque said the Philippines maintains a "strong policy against forced labor consistent with various International Labor Organization (ILO) Conventions," adding that the government had recently approved new mechanisms to address the issue. Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez said Manila intends to seek a reduction of the tariff. "We will negotiate with the US government through our Undersecretary Allan Gepty," Romualdez said, adding there was "no timeline" for the negotiations. In a separate statement, he said the

Oil... From A1

in the conflict and intensifying fears over global energy supplies. Speaking on the sidelines of a Southeast Asian summit in Manila, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Houthis had been "suckered" by Iran into attacking Red Sea shipping. "The Houthis largely were smart and stayed out of all this throughout the conflict, but they now apparently have gotten themselves suckered into this, going after Saudi Arabia and their ships," Rubio said. Peso at record low 61.847 to USD Against the backdrop of escalating tensions, the Philippine peso fell to a fresh record low of 61.847 against the

China... From A1

"BRP Datu Paduhinog experienced a temporary loss of its satellite... connectivity," the PCG said. Two other ships, the BRP Datu Cabaylo and the BRP Cape San Agustin, were also targeted with water cannon but were not hit, the PCG said. Bajo de Masinloc, 124 nautical miles west of Zambales, lies within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone. The incident, which took place during an attempt to resupply Filipino fishermen, came as top diplomats wrapped up a Southeast Asian regional forum in Manila. Beijing claims most of the South China Sea, including the flashpoint shoal, despite an international ruling that its assertion lacks any legal basis. China Coast Guard said it "took necessary measures" including the firing of a water cannon at the Philippine ships to "resolutely drive them away.” "We sternly warn the Philippine side to immediately stop its infringing

PBBM’s... From A1

In a chance interview, Mr. Marcos described the annual address as a report to the Filipino people on the administration's performance since his previous SONA. "Well, I will always regard the SONA as a report, a report of the Presi-

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is expected to weaken as it moves over mainland China. Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 is in effect over the following Luzon areas: Batanes, the northern portion of Cagayan (Santa Ana, Gonzaga, Santa Teresita, Camalaniugan, Aparri, Ballesteros, Abulug, Pamplona, Sanchez-Mira, Claveria, Santa Praxedes, Buguey, Allacapan, Lal-Lo, Gattaran, Baggao, Lasam) including Babuyan Islands, the northern portion of Apayao (Luna, Santa Marcela, Calanasan, Pudtol, Flora), and the northern portion of Ilocos Norte (Pagudpud, Dumalneg, Adams,

Bangui, Burgos, Vintar). Signal No. 1 was also hoisted over the rest of mainland Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, the rest of Apayao, Abra, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet, the rest of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and La Union, and the northern and central portions of Aurora (Dilasag, Casiguran, Dinalungan, Dipaculao). Meanwhile, Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Friday mobilized the disaster response and incident management teams in northern Luzon and other areas threatened by Kiyapo.

UN: Evacuate 6,000 sailors stranded in Hormuz strait GENEVA—The United Nations on Friday urged countries involved in the Middle East war to help evacuate and repatriate some 6,000 sailors stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. UN human rights chief Volker Turk called for urgent action to remedy the plight of thousands of stranded seafarers, who are facing "a dire humanitarian and human rights crisis" in the waterway, his spokeswoman Shabia Mantoo said. The International Maritime Organization has said there are at least 6,000 seafarers on hundreds of vessels stranded in the strait, unable to evacuate during the ceasefire. "Parties to the conflict should urgently work to facilitate safe passage for stranded seafarers to safely evacuate and disembark, as well as ensure the delivery of critical supplies," Mantoo told a press conference in Geneva. "Attacks against civilian vessels are unacceptable and must stop. They are protected under international humanitarian law." Turk is urging states, ship owners and all other relevant actors to "urgently ensure the protection of stranded seafarers," including through consular assistance and providing essential supplies, "and by facilitating evacuations and repatriations,” Mantoo added.AFP

7 in 10... From A1

In the latest poll, results showed that only 17 percent of respondents disagreed with the idea of Duterte answering the allegations, while 13 percent remained undecided. The survey also revealed that a significant majority (74 percent) of Filipino adults were aware that the impeachment case against the Vice President was with the Senate and was expected to proceed to trial one week prior to the trial. However, 26 percent of respondents only learned about this during the interview. Awareness of the impeachment trial varied across major regions, with Metro Manila showing the highest level at 79 percent, followed by Mindanao at 77 percent, Balance Luzon at 74 percent, and the Visayas at 69 percent. The SWS face-to-face survey was conducted from June 20 to 29, 2026, involving 1,500 respondents aged 18 and older, with a margin of error of ±3% for national percentages. A separate survey by the OCTA Research group showed a significant majority of Filipino adults (71 percent) believe senators should decide the impeachment case based on the law and evidence presented during the trial rather than political considerations. In the latest Tugon ng Masa poll, results showed that only 21 percent said political considerations should matter most. Across major areas, the law and evidence preference was more pronounced in the National Capital Region (77 percent) and Balance Luzon (76 percent), followed by the Visayas (63 percent) and Mindanao (62 percent). OCTA noted that public acceptance of the Senate' s verdict may depend not only on whether Duterte is convicted or acquitted but also on perceptions of fairness, impartiality, and adherence to constitutional and legal standards during the proceedings. It emphasized that the respondents were not asked whether Duterte should be convicted or acquitted. Instead, they were asked what should matter most when senators cast their votes.

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SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026

MST.DAYDESK@GMAIL.COM

DOJ wants active role in addressing campus bullying By Pot Chavez

PORTRAIT OF PATRIOTISM. A pedestrian walks past a mural on a concrete wall along Bonny Serrano Ave. in Quezon City, signifying the Filipinos’ fierce patriotism in defending national sovereignty over the disputed West Philippine Sea. Joan Bondoc

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) eyes an active role in curbing the culture of bullying in the country following the opening of classes this year, according to Justice Undersecretary Ian Norman Dato. In a briefing with Justice reporters on Thursday, Dato gave updates on the DOJ’s Law Enforcement Cluster ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA) next week. “The stance of Secretary (Fredderick) Vida, it is about time to issue a department order addressing anti-bullying. I think it is timely, personally, on account of the opening of classes,” Dato noted. He added that the DOJ was considering the issuance of an order as promised earlier by the Secretary mandating government prosecutors to accommodate complaints against bullying. Dato explained that upon receipt of the complaint, the DOJ Action Center will assess the case and refer it to the school or to the Philippine National Police’s Women and Children Protection Desk. Meanwhile, the action center may also accept and docket the complaint if case build-up is necessary. The DOJ official stressed that this initiative is part of the department’s commitment under the Constitution as well as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). He said the DOJ would probably issue the order by next week. “It is imperative to emphasize that the bullying victims should have forum to file their complaints, apart from the concerned schools.

OMB eyed for Taguig ghost projects House can approve IN BRIEF

Kalinga honors fallen home-grown soldier TABUK City—The provincial government of Kalinga paid tribute to Cpl. Drexler Gumayat, a 34-yearold soldier from the province, who was killed in action during a recent military operation in Abra. Gumayat, a member of the Philippine Army’s 50th Infantry Battalion, was died during pursuit operations against suspected guerillas of the Ilocos Cordillera Regional Committee (ICRC) in the mountainous area of Tineg, Abra. His remains arrived at the headquarters of the 503rd Infantry Brigade in Calanan, Tabuk City, where he was accorded military honors. According to the military, the operation targeted holdouts of the ICRC, a former operating unit of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Northern Luzon. Dexter A. See

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By Joel E. Zurbano

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ENATOR Panfilo Lacson is considering sending his evidence concerning alleged ghost projects in Taguig City directly to the Office of the Ombudsman.

Lacson believes that such course of action will generate a more expedient investigation, rather than referring the matter to the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee. “If we course it through the Blue Ribbon Committee, there would be a long discussion and the resource persons could be harassed,” Lacson explained. He rejected Senator Alan Peter Cayetano’s assertion that Taguig is being unfairly targeted in connection with allegations of ghost projects related to flood control. Lacson reiterated that while he is prioritizing the projects in Taguig City after Cayetano attacked his integrity, he and his team are not singling out Taguig. “We always had the records on questionable projects in Taguig City, but we had to initially focus on Bulacan and Occidental Mindoro and other areas. Now that Cayetano attacked my integrity, I

instructed my staff to focus on Taguig because Cayetano has been making noise while trying to appear clean while making baseless accusations against me,” he said. “I am just prioritizing Taguig, not singling it out. And I am prioritizing it after he attacked my integrity,” he added. Cayetano earlier accused Lacson of targeting fellow senators to influence the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, along with efforts towards Charter change. He also questioned Lacson’s Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN). Lacson said their latest findings related to irregularities in Taguig included the identification of more bagmen for the projects. According to him, the evidence provided by informants so far indicated more than one person could be implicated in the anomalous projects. “Long story short, if we summarize

PCG foils P7-m cigarette smuggling bid in Zambo THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Friday reported that they confiscated on Thursday smuggled cigarettes worth approximately ₱7.15 million along the shoreline of Barangay Cawit, Zamboanga City. PCG spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said the operation stemmed from intelligence information regarding a suspected smuggling activity in the area. Prior to the raid, the PCG conducted coordinated maritime and land-based surveillance on the illegal activity involving a fast seacraft which fled as the PCG team approaches. The team however, confiscated over 100 cases of smuggled cigarettes left behind by the suspects at the seashore. Vince Lopez

Aquino eyes higher tax exemptions for workers SENATOR Paolo Benigno Aquino IV has proposed a law to raise the annual income tax exemption threshold for Filipino workers from P250,000 to P480,000. The measure aims to increase the take-home pay of workers and help ease the financial strain caused by inflation. Senate Bill No. 267 seeks amendment to the National Internal Revenue Code in a bid to alleviate the tax burden on workers by exempting those with annual earnings of up to P480,000 from income tax obligations. The measure was among the initial bills presented by Aquino in fulfilment of his campaign promises in 2025, during which Filipinos expressed the need for affordable living conditions and increase in takehome pay. Joel E. Zurbano

this, this is a work in progress and the progress seems good. We have uncovered many pieces of evidence and talked to many potential witnesses. So this is not confined to one person - we think there are many others who may be implicated,” he said. “The plot thickens. The list lengthens. The case strengthens,” Lacson said. Lacson said they have found additional questionable slope protection projects, many of them worth P100 million each, bringing the total value of such projects they have identified to P3.385 billion. Of these, two had the same location and description. “One project was funded twice. It may not be outright illegal but if payment was collected for both, one is a ghost project. If one was not implemented, where did the P100 million appropriation for it go?” he said. He said their other findings include defective projects that had overlapping spans that appeared to allow room for kickbacks. Cayetano insisted that there are no ghost projects in his hometown. He stated that if there are claims of ghost projects in various regions of the country, it is imperative for authorities to investigate all such allegations rather than focusing solely on Taguig.

ONE-ON-ONE DIPLOMACY. Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro and Chile Foreign Affairs Minister Francisco Perez Mackenna converse at the sideline of the ongoing Association of Southeast Asian Nations foreign ministers’ meetings in Pasay City. AFP

more priority bills by yearend—Dy By Maricel V. Cruz

SPEAKER Faustino Dy III has expressed confidence that the House of Representatives can pass more of the administration’s priority legislation before the end of the year, noting that many of the remaining measures are already in the advanced stages of legislative process. In a video statement on Friday, Dy shared that several priority bills are already moving through Congress, including the proposed Cybersecurity Act, which is scheduled for second reading. Eight other measures are awaiting action by the Committee on Appropriations or the Committee on Ways and Means. “Many of the remaining priority bills are in advanced stage of legislative process,” Dy said. “That is why I call on our counterparts in the Senate to help push these measures into law before year-end,” he added. Dy also said the House will continue prioritizing legislation that directly addresses the needs of ordinary Filipinos. He also emphasized the importance of close coordination with the executive branch, particularly the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office (PLLO), saying prompt agency feedback and the early submission of executive versions of proposed measures help speed up the legislative process. “Our goal is to pass laws that offer genuine benefits and are felt by every Filipino,” he said. Meanwhile, Dy hopes that the Senate can simultaneously fulfill its constitutional duty as an impeachment court while continuing its legislative responsibilities, ensuring that Congress maintains momentum on the administration’s priority measures. He said the House is prepared to work closely with the Senate under the leadership of Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian to complete the remaining priority legislation.

Aliling says DHSUD secures land titles for 8,100 housing recipients By Rio N. Araja HOUSING czar Jose Ramon Aliling on Friday said the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the Social Housing Finance Corp. (SHFC) have secured land ownership for 8,100 families under Marcos Jr.’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH). Aliling said the gains reflected the government’s continuing commitment to make homeownership more accessible and provide Filipino families with the security of tenure they deserve. He said the DHSUD continues to expand access to secure land ownership for low-income and informal settler

families through the Enhanced Community Mortgage Program (ECMP), one of the key modalities under 4PH Program. Implemented by SHFC, one of DHSUD’s key shelter agencies, 47 ECMP projects nationwide have been approved in its first year of implementation, extending over P870.6 million in land acquisition loan assistance benefiting over 8,100 Filipino families. According to Aliling, the ECMP was introduced as a modality under the Expanded 4PH Program in 2025 to accelerate the delivery of security of tenure for organized communities, particularly the informal settler families, seeking to legally acquire the land they have long occupied.

LIFELINE. Personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard Station Western Sarangani provide a lifeline for residents trapped by flash flood generated by heavy rains. PCG photo

NEWS

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SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

DILG rallies ASEAN cops vs. crime IN BRIEF By Vince Lopez

888 nabbed in W. Visayas for environmental crimes THE Police Regional Office 6 (Western Visayas) on Friday said it has intensified its campaign against environmental crimes, resulting in the arrest of 888 individuals in anti-illegal fishing and anti-illegal logging operations conducted from May 22 to July 22. PRO6 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said police conducted 412 anti-illegal fishing operations during the two-month period, leading to the apprehension of 669 individuals. Authorities also recovered fish valued at P880,605 and confiscated fishing equipment, motorboats, and other paraphernalia worth P49 million. The Iloilo Police Provincial Office recorded the highest number of persons apprehended with 224, while the Antique Police Provincial Office conducted the most operations with 177. Vince Lopez

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HE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called for stronger cooperation among Southeast Asian police forces to combat transnational crime, particularly cyberenabled scams and online fraud, as it opened the 44th ASEANAPOL Conference on Thursday at the Marriott Hotel in Newport, Pasay City. Host Philippines officially opened the conference that brings together police chiefs and senior delegates from the 10 ASEAN member states—Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Speaking at the opening ceremony,

Remulla said transnational crimes have become increasingly sophisticated, technology-driven, and borderless, making closer regional collaboration more urgent. “We will continue to support initiatives that enhance intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and capacity

building among our police institutions,” Remulla said. He said cross-border threats have become more networked and adaptive, citing drug trafficking, terrorism, arms smuggling, trafficking in persons, wildlife crime, cybercrime, financial crime, maritime-related offenses, and cyberenabled scams among the region’s key security concerns. Remulla said no single country can address these evolving threats alone and reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening intelligence exchange, joint operations, and capacity-building initiatives with its regional partners. “Guided by the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., we continue to work closely with our neighbors and international partners to strengthen law enforcement collaboration, enhance collective capabilities, and build safer, more

secure, and more resilient communities across the region,” he said. PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., who assumed the ASEANAPOL chairmanship from the Royal Thai Police during the conference’s first plenary session, said regional solidarity remains essential in addressing increasingly complex security threats. “It is a great honor for the Philippine National Police to host the 44th ASEANAPOL Conference and welcome our counterparts from across Southeast Asia,” he said. “Guided by this year’s theme, ‘Unity Towards a Stronger ASEANAPOL Community,’ we reaffirm our shared responsibility to strengthen cooperation, build mutual trust, and enhance our collective capability to address transnational crimes that threaten the safety and security of our people,” the PNP chief added.

PDP to hold assembly, election today THE Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) will hold its National Assembly on Saturday, July 25, at Arena Athletics in Barangay Matina Crossing, Davao City, where delegates are expected to elect new national officers and discuss amendments to the party constitution. PDP Deputy Spokesperson Atty. Ferdinand Topacio said the daylong convention will proceed following what he described as a surge in membership from both longtime supporters and new members who have aligned themselves with the party’s platform. “We noticed this trend starting last year, when two PDP senatorial candidates placed within the top six of the winning circle, with reelectionist Senator Christopher Lawrence ‘Bong’ Go placing number one, while other guest candidates from the so-called ‘DuterTen,’ such as Rodante Marcoleta, Camille Villar, and Imee Marcos, also won Senate seats,” Topacio said. He also cited the party’s electoral gains, saying the PDP won the governorships of Cebu, Agusan del Norte, Marinduque, and Oriental Mindoro, as well as a congressional seat in General Santos City. Itchie Cabayan

DOH, DSWD expanding child nutrition program THE Department of Health-Center for Health Development in Central Luzon and the Department of Social Welfare and Development on Friday called on national partners to expand the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) following an increase in child stunting nationwide. The appeal came after the release of National Nutrition Survey data showing that child stunting rose to 25.3 percent in 2025 from 23.6 percent in 2023. Despite the overall increase among children under 5 years old, stunting among children aged 2 years and below declined to 21.1 percent from 22.5 percent during the same period. Ram Superable

RICE INSPECTION. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. joins Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., Pampanga Governor Lilia G. Pineda, Vice Governor Dennis Pineda, and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in inspecting the Pampanga Food Security Complex in Lubao, Pampanga on Friday. Revoli Cortez

BIR files P22.71-b tax evasion case vs. Co firm Sunwest By Thony Rose Lesaca and Pot Chavez THE Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) on Friday filed criminal complaints before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against Sunwest, Inc. and two of its top officers over an estimated P22.71 billion deficiency in income tax liability for taxable years 2019 to 2024.

Named in the complaint were Sunwest President Aderma Angelie Descarga Alcazar and Treasurer Cesar Zacarias Buenaventura. Sunwest, Inc. is a construction firm founded by former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, who has been implicated in several “ghost” flood control and other infrastructure projects. The BIR said the company willfully underdeclared its income, claimed un-

substantiated purchases and expenses, and improperly claimed creditable withholding tax (CWT) credits in its income tax returns from 2019 to 2024. Sunwest officials have yet to respond to the filing as of press time. The bureau said it found sufficient basis to charge the corporation and its responsible officers with violations of Sections 254 and 255 of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amend-

ed, under its Run After Tax Evaders (RATE) Program. “The BIR examined the tax compliance of the entities concerned. When our investigation establishes willful violations of the National Internal Revenue Code, we will not hesitate to file the appropriate criminal cases against the corporation and its responsible officers,” BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza said.

President opens Clark Pediatric Specialty Hospital’s first phase By Charles Dantes

PRE-SONA PROTEST. Members of the women’s group Gabriela stage a protest in Manila on Friday, calling on the administration to address the rising cost of living, corruption, and alleged attacks on women’s rights and livelihoods ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address (SONA). Norman Cruz

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday inaugurated the first phase of the Department of Health-Jose B. Lingad Children’s Medical Center in Clark Freeport Zone, saying the facility will expand access to specialized pediatric healthcare in Central and Northern Luzon. The hospital, formerly known as the Clark Multi-Specialty Medical Center, will begin accepting patients on Aug. 1 and provide free specialized pediatric services to children from Regions I, II and III, as well as neighboring areas. Speaking during the inauguration, Mr. Marcos said the hospital fulfills the administration’s commitment, announced in 2023, to establish regional specialty hospitals and reduce the need for patients to travel to Metro Manila for advanced

medical care. “Three years ago, in July 2023, we gathered here in Clark to mark the beginning of what was then an ambitious vision called the Clark Multi-Specialty Medical Center,” the President said. He said healthcare access remains uneven across the country, noting that government data showed only about half of Filipinos in 2020 could reach primary healthcare services within 30 minutes. “It was even more challenging for patients requiring specialized medical treatment, which was often available only in metropolitan areas and, in many cases, only in the National Capital Region,” Mr. Marcos said. The President said the new pediatric hospital would help spare families the costs of travel, lodging, and lost income while seeking treatment for sick children.

DOJ boosts anti-trafficking, anti-scamming efforts By Pot Chavez JUSTICE Undersecretary Nicholas Felix Ty said the Department of Justice (DOJ) is strengthening its efforts to combat human trafficking and financial scamming in the country. Speaking at a briefing with justice reporters Thursday ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address next week, Ty provided updates on the DOJ’s Human Security and Privacy Cluster. “Yesterday, the DOJ and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas entered into an information-sharing agreement. The agreement covers the Anti-Financial

Account Scamming Act (AFASA), under which the BSP serves as the lead implementing agency, with support from the DOJ, law enforcement agencies, and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center,” he said. “This information-sharing agreement between the DOJ and the BSP is significant because the powers granted to the BSP under AFASA are extensive,” Ty said. The BSP now has the authority “to examine bank accounts linked to financial scamming, including not only account details such as names and account numbers but also the movement of funds in those accounts,” he added.

Ty said the accounts covered by the agreement include both peso and foreign currency deposits. He said the partnership is important in combating financial scams, noting that while the country has strict bank secrecy laws, lawmakers created an exception for scamming-related investigations. “We have only a few exceptions to our bank secrecy laws, and one of those exceptions was created by Congress for scamming cases. Because of this, the BSP can now more easily share the account information needed by our prosecutors to pursue cases involving financial scamming,” Ty said.

RIDERS IN THE RAIN. Motorists and motorcycle riders navigate heavy intermittent rain along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City on Friday morning. Edd Castro

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How to watch the impeachment trial without losing your mind THE impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte has preoccupied many Filipinos in the past three weeks. As expected, every trial day yields new insights into the how officials in high places ought – or ought not – to behave. But there are also new things to talk about (and likely make memes of). Compared to previous impeachment trials, the 2026 hearings are a lot more interactive, and the commentaries are instant, hilarious, and tragic all at the same time. The tragedy comes, not yet from any shocking testimonies, but from the behavior and performance of certain personalities. Often it feels that the public is drowning in legal technicalities, but more so caught up in a wave of emotions about their lawmakers. Just nine days into the trial, there have been many irritating, cringe-worthy, pathetic moves. Truly, watching the proceedings from start to finish, three times a week, couild be draining. But we tune in, anyway. I’ve thought of some things to remember so that we could keep on watching without losing our minds. 1. Look at the trial as an opportunity to meet new idols. This early, we have gotten to know several lawyers for the prosecution who have performed well when speaking. It was the first time many people heard Atty. Amando Virgil Ligutan, for instance. At once, people were impressed with his sharpness. And just this week, hearing Rep. Chel Diokno eminently and yet calmy respond to the questions of senator-judges, we realize the tragedy of his Senate loss in 2022. We are now able to distinguish the OGs, as the young people say, from the rest. And this is not just a matter of age. 2. Enjoy the privilege of judging the judges. Let us not forget that, regal scarlet robes and all, senator-judges are politicians. They will not shed their old (or real) skin overnight. Thus, when they speak, they bring with them their political baggage. If they are true to their duties, they will at least make an attempt to be impartial and to look at the evidence. Ideally, they should not be one-sided. The operative word is “ideally.” Our verdict will be made known in the next elections. Again, ideally. 3. Learn many things about the law and the legal profession. Those with an inclination toward learning how the law works would find the trial instructive, even if it could

get numbingly technical procedural at times. Even the bad moments could be how-not-to teaching moments. 4. Gain valuable insight into human nature. When one talks in an imperious way, insults others, claims to work for the public good while making the issue about themselves, or plays the victim, it is not just fodder for social media posts. It is also a window into their soul. On the contrary, when one speaks respectfully and calmly, it also tells us that the person is secure in one’s knowledge and self-esteem. The lead counsel for the defense, Atty. Michael Poa, shows us that it is possible to argue with one’s peers decently, without descending into “siga” mode, quite unlike his principals. Ultimately we are reminded that it is not so much what is in our heads but how we relate with other people that defines our person.

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We can always lower the volume, pause, or stop altogether when it gets too much. 5. Detach. We can always lower the volume, pause, or stop altogether when it gets too much. We can wait for legitimate media organizations to summarize what happened. There are many other ways to spend our time. Nobody is forcing us to watch all these at the cost of our mental well-being. The result will be the same, anyway, whether we keep tuned, stay for the highlights, rely on others’ recap, or not watch altogether. 6. But go back to why there is a trial in the first place. It is true that there are many other things that need attention. Let us not fall into a simplistic trap that this is an all-or-nothing affair. By all means, let us do our work, attend to our families, take care of ourselves. The government should address numerous other issues. But the impeachment trial is an important process in the life of our nation. We need to be involved and be aware of what is happening. Our votes and taxes and futures are at stake. If we keep an open mind, what we learn will inform our democratic decisions in the years to come. adellechua@gmail.com

Cebu economic recovery under threat By Herman Tiu Laurel CEBU City recently held a so-called West Philippine Sea Victory Day on July 13, 2026, marking the 10th anniversary of the 2016 arbitral ruling and honored defense secretary Gilbert Teodoro as special guest. China’s Consul General criticized the event as “blatant provocation” and asked the rhetorical question: “Friendship or Confrontation?” The situation puts Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro and the people of Cebu in a quandary. Cebu Province Governor Pam Baricuatro has been working double time since her phenomenal win as a neophyte, first-time candidate against the political dynasty scion Gwen Garcia in the 2025 elections, to put the economy of Cebu back on track towards stability and growth—particularly the tourism sector, which constitutes 17.4% of the province’s GDP. I had a talk with the provincial administrator of Baricuatro last year, who stressed that Chinese tourism is indeed a priority for the province. The ‘Province of Charm,’ Cebu reaffirmed its special friendly ties with China as recently a 11, 2026, when the province was invited to the 2026 China-ASEAN Expo in China by Chinese Cebu Consul Zhang Zhao. Consul Zhang hailed Cebu as the “Province of Charm” at the 25th China-Philippines Friendship Day at the Cebu Provincial Capitol on June 9. I narrate this to show Cebu-China ties are in a very rosy state.

Baricuatro, in her speech at the event, highlighted the importance of Philippine-China people- to-people connections and international cooperation, emphasizing the opportunities that arise from mutual understanding and shared experiences. At the event marking the 51st anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China, Baricuatro said friendship between nations has been nurtured through meaningful partnerships.

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What will happen to all the constructive and cooperative efforts of the governor and the consul? Baricuatro recalled leading a Cebu Province delegation to Fujian, China, earlier in 2026, where she gained valuable insights into healthcare and traditional medicine, environmental protection and waste management, as well as the preservation of culture and heritage while pursuing development. This would solve Cebu’s notorious and humongous problem and earn the province additional income, lower electricity charges, and lower garbage disposal charges. In a later visit by Chinese Amb. Jing Quan to the Cebu governor, the wasteto-energy project was indeed followed

P

OLITICIANS coming from other professions are not new. Before they ran for public office, they were first doing other things. Maybe they realized they could serve their country better by being in government. Or it could be that they were driven by the spirit of “why not?” and “because I can!” Religious leaders, sports figures, and media personalities are common examples. They capitalize on their existing popularity, confident that they can secure a place in government because of their household names and familiar faces. There is nothing inherently wrong with this. It is, in fact, a good way to begin a career in public service. They would worry less about mandates and focus more on working hard for the good of their constituents. They would also tend to feel more accountable for their actions, knowing that so many people trusted them to do their job. They would have no choice but to live up to the high expectations of their millions of supporters. There is one unspoken requirement, however: that they would brush up on their skills, read and catch up with what they have not prepared for before. They would hire advisers and staff who would help them fit better into

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This clown is shamelessly exploiting the underdog stereotype. Boo. Actors easily come to mind. They have spent many years making a living from assuming roles, pretending to be someone they are not. Many have crossed over – comedians, action stars, singers. The results have been varied. There are many success stories. While popularity has given them an early advantage, they know they cannot live on mere applause. The job – whether in

EMPLOYEES may be regular, project or seasonal, and casual employees. “[P]roject and seasonal employees are generally engaged to perform tasks which only last for a specific period and duration…[while] casual employees are those who perform work which are not usually necessary or desirable for the employer’s business.” (Ditiangkin, et al. v. Lazada E-Services Philippines, Inc., et al., G.R. No. 246892, September 21, 2022) There is another category of employment which is a fixed-term employment wherein an employee is hired for a specific period. “In fixed-term employment, the work performed may also be necessary or desirable to the usual business of the employer.” (Op cit. citing Brent School, Inc. v. Zamora) In the case of Ditiangkin, et al. v. Lazada E-Services Philippines, Inc. (Lazada), et al. In February 2016, Ditiangkin and other riders were hired by Lazada to pick up items from sellers and deliver them to Lazada’s warehouse. Each of these riders signed an Independent Contractor Agreement (Contract) which states that they would be paid P1,200.00 per day as service fee for a period of one year, and that they were to use their privately-owned motorcycles for their deliveries. “Sometime in January 2017, the riders were told by a dispatcher that they have been removed from their usual routes and will no longer be given any schedules.” Despite this, they continued to report for work and waited all day for new assignments, but later learned that their routes

were given to other employees. The riders then filed a complaint for illegal dismissal before the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) against Lazada which held that the Contract signed by the riders explicitly stated that there was no employer-employee relationship between the parties.

“The riders moved for reconsideration, but this was denied by the [NLRC]. The riders then elevated the case to the Court of Appeals through a Rule 65 petition which was dismissed outright.” Upon review by the Supreme Court, the Court declared that the riders satisfy both the four-fold and economic dependence tests. The four factors are present. First, Lazada selected and engaged the riders. Second, the riders received their salaries from Lazada. Third, Lazada has the power to dismiss the riders. Lastly, Lazada has control over the means and methods of the performance of the riders’ work. (Op cit.) “In carrying out their business, they are not merely a platform where parties can transact; they also offer the delivery of the items from the sellers to the buyers. The delivery eases the transaction between the

sellers and buyers and is an integral part of… Lazada’s business.” (Op cit.) “More importantly, [the riders] are dependent on [Lazada] for their continued employment in this line of business.” “This demonstrates that [the riders] have been economically dependent on [Lazada] for their livelihood.” (Op cit.) “[I]t is not shown that [the riders] were hired by [Lazada] due to their special talent or skills. Their work as riders [did] not require strict and distinctive qualifications that distinguish them from other riders” that brings them outside of the definition of fixed-term employment. (Op cit.) Neither were the riders independent contractors because the work performed by them do not require a special skill or talent. “Picking up and delivering goods from warehouse to buyers do not call for a specific expertise.” (Op cit.) “However, [Lazada] failed to discharge [its] burden of proving that [the riders] are independent contractors. [The riders] do not fall under any of the categories of independent contractors.” “[Lazada] maintain[s] that the Contract they signed with [the riders] explicitly states that there is no employer-employee relationship between them. However, the protection of the law afforded to labor precedes over the nomenclature and stipulations of the Contract.” (Op cit.) It is evident that the riders are regular employees of Lazada. Hence, the Supreme Court declared that “the [riders] should be reinstated to their positions with full backwages computed from the time of dismissal up to the time of actual reinstatement.” (Op cit.)

up. Following the exchanges, Xiamen Airline inaugurated direct flights between Jinjiang, Fujian (the origins of Dr. Jose Rizal’s ancestors) to Cebu twice a week, gearing up for the revival of Chinese tourist arrivals, which in 2019 reached up to average of $ 1,200.00 or $ 840-million! Baricuatro said that the visit strengthened her appreciation for the opportunities that can be created through cooperation and understanding between communities and nations. In fact, many tangible projects have emanated from that visit, such as a waste-to-energy project, establishment of Cebu-China direct flights and promise of boost in Chinese tourist arrivals. In agreement with Chinese consul Zhang, Baricuatro announced that Cebu Province will return to China in September to participate in the China-ASEAN Expo, where Cebu will represent the Philippines as the “Province of Charm” hoping that the event would further deepen friendship between Filipinos and Chinese people and pave the way for greater

cooperation, understanding, and shared prosperity in the years ahead. Cebu province representing Central Visayas, posted an economic growth rate of 3.7%, while elevated costs pushed Cebu’s provincial inflation to a horrendous 7.3% early 2026. Concern is expressed over slower national GDP growth, El Niño-related agricultural impacts, and global geopolitical risks that are squeezing supply chains. The ITBPM sector also faces new competitive pressures from the adoption of generative AI overseas. The latest hyping and instigating tension-building by U.S. proxies spinning and gaslighting a meaningless “award” that only 13 U.S. clients (or allies) and the U.S. supports and calls an “international community” that represents only about 7% of the 195 nations of the United Nations is a monkey wrench the U.S. is throwing into the vastly improving relations between the Philippines and China, which is the country the whole of ASEAN has as its engine for growth. Ten years have passed since that ar-

bitration “award” was passed by a noncourt—for the UNCLOS judicial court is the ITLOS (International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea), and it never passed judgment on the “award.” The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) is just an administrative facility to handle cases between consenting parties, but the Americans and their proxies have carried on the charade of “a sweeping victory” to gaslight millions of Filipinos with. It would be a pity if Cebu’s and the entire Central Visayas’ economic recovery were wrecked by a Western foreign power and Filipino proxies (especially one with doubtful citizenship and allegiance). All the constructive and cooperative efforts of Gov. Pam Baricuatro and the Chinese Consul Zhang Zhao and Amb. Jing Qian to help the Province of Cebu and the people of Central Visayas will have come to naught. (The writer, who supports Philippines-China understanding, organized the Philippine BRICS Strategic Studies think tank dedicated to promoting global multi-polarity.)

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The Court declared that the riders satisfy both the four-fold and economic dependence tests.

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their new calling. Also, that they would make the effort to conduct themselves in a manner becoming of their office.

local government or in either House of Congress – entails more than uttering sound bytes or looking tough or playing the victim. There are skills and capacities that are non-negotiable. Sooner or later, they will be exposed for their laziness if they do not take the time to study what is expected of them. On Wednesday, an actor-turnedpolitician tried as usual to turn the impeachment court into a stage. He was playing the role of being a senator-judge while keeping his macho demeanor that has taken him places for so many years. And when people laughed at his nonsense, he took great offense, insisting that they were in court in a manner of speaking that disrespects the institution and the process they were in. His belated explanations make him sound even more ridiculous. This actor is shamelessly exploiting the underdog stereotype, engaging in anti-intellectualism, and using the worn-out stereotype of the uneducated, misunderstood, foul-mouthed hero with the best of intentions. He might be looking at his impeachment robe as cosplay. And look, he has been amply rewarded in terms of mileage. This is why he keeps going – to our utter misery. This person seems to believe he can act his way to being a lawmaker and a genuine public servant. He is terrible at it. Boo.

Determining employment status

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno

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IN BRIEF Man shouting ‘Allahu akbar’ stabs 2 NY

NOT GIVING UP. View of a sign depicting missing people

as people line up outside a McDonald’s used as field hospital after the June 24 earthquakes in Caraballeda, Venezuela. The number of people killed from the double earthquakes in Venezuela last month has reached 5,398, according to the latest tally released by officials this week. AFP

Thousands flee wildfires in Europe L ÈGE-CAP-FERRET, France – Luggage-clad residents and tourists fled a French peninsula by boat and the smell of smoke drifted into parts of Madrid on Friday as wildfires swept through parts of western Europe, triggering states of emergencies and calls for EU help. In France, fires raging near the country’s prized wine country of Bordeaux forced hundreds of people to flee the Cap Ferret peninsula in the middle of the summer vacation season as the blaze devoured an area nearly twice the size of Manhattan. In Spain, two separate blazes were raging out of control within 100 kilometers

(62 miles) of Madrid, with some residents of the Spanish capital waking up to the smell of smoke, according to residents. “The gendarmes came and knocked on every door, the fire was about 500 meters away – we grabbed some things and left,” Patrick Martineau, a 69-year-old resident of Le Porge, south of Bordeaux, said. Three firefighters have been killed as

southern Europe endures more severe heat, with temperatures topping 40C in some areas. The total area of land burnt so far this year in EU countries is the second largest on record, according to satellite data from the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS). French authorities have ordered thousands of tourists on the southwestern Atlantic coast out of campsites and holiday homes, as firefighters backed by water-bombing planes raced to control the blazes. More than 23,000 people have been evacuated in the region so far. France has invoked the European

Union’s civil protection mechanism to ask for help, President Emmanuel Macron said on Friday, warning that the crisis remained “very intense.” The EU said it would provide three water-bombing planes to France. In Spain, the government declared a state of emergency in the Madrid region, where more than 10,000 people have been evacuated in recent days, with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez calling the situation “dramatic.” “Meteorological conditions, fundamentally the wind, will complicate firefighting operations this Friday,” the Madrid regional government said in a post on X. AFP

Karim Khan: ICC prosecutor with fate in the balance

Infographic explaining the El Nino phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean. AFP

THE Hague—Karim Khan will go down in the history of the International Criminal Court as the prosecutor who clinched arrest warrants against the leaders of Russia and Israel but also as the one who “poisoned the atmosphere” within the institution. Rigor and precision are the watchwords of this 56-year-old British lawyer when it comes to building a case against the alleged perpetrators of the world’s most serious crimes. But he now faces his own forensic investigation following allegations of sexual assault made against him by a member of his staff – accusations he denies. At his swearing-in ceremony in 2021 as chief prosecutor of the Haguebased court, Khan said the ICC should be judged on its actions: “The proof of the pudding should be in the eating.”

And by obtaining arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas leaders, he has shown he does not shy away from controversy. Before that, he won an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, which led to Khan being placed on a wanted list in Russia. The official has courted controversy throughout a career that has included defending former Liberian president Charles Taylor against allegations of war crimes in Sierra Leone. Other high-profile clients have included Kenyan President William Ruto who faced charges of crimes against humanity at the ICC – a case that was ultimately dropped. He was also the lawyer for Seif alIslam, son of the late Libyan leader Moamer Kadhafi. AFP

Ukraine drone attack hits ‘Russia’s Amazon’ warehouse

SAINT Petersburg—Ukrainian drones hit a warehouse for a Russian e-commerce giant near Saint Petersburg early Friday, triggering a fire that sent smoke pouring over the historic city, according to local officials and an AFP reporter. Kyiv has targeted Saint Petersburg as it steps up long-range drone strikes on Russian energy, military and logistics sites in recent weeks.

An AFP reporter saw grey smoke rising into the morning sky over highrise buildings in the city, which is more than 800 kilometers (500 miles) from the Ukrainian border. The local governor reported that a warehouse for Wildberries – Russia ‘s largest online retailer often referred to as “Russia’s Amazon” – was on fire after the strike.

“Three people were wounded,” Alexander Drozdenko, governor of the surrounding Leningrad region said on social media. It was the third overnight attack by Ukraine on Wildberries’ sites in the past week. One of the company’s logistics hubs outside Moscow was hit last weekend, killing eight night-shift workers and

Giant swing on Swiss peak aims to boost summer tourism as Alps warm VILLARS-sur-Ollon, Switzerland – As the chairlift nears the Grand Chamossaire peak at the Villars ski resort in the Swiss Alps, screams of terror and delight suddenly pierce the air. Perched on the mountaintop, at an altitude of 2,110 meters (6,923 feet), a towering V-shaped structure glistens in the summer sunshine, holding a giant swing that catapults visitors out over a gaping void with a breathtaking Alpine panorama stretching before them. “I had a bit of a pit in my stomach” before getting strapped in, acknowledged Alexandra Henchoz, 37, who tested the new swing with her hus-

band and 10-year-old daughter. “But once it is happening, it is just incredible. You feel like a bird flying.” The Grand Chamossaire swing, which opened earlier this month, is the latest effort by Alpine ski resorts to attract off-season visitors and make use of ski lift infrastructure as snow becomes less reliable due to climate change. “We are really trying to diversify our offering,” Martin Deburaux, head of the Villars-Gryons-Diableret ski area, told AFP. The new 12-metre-high swing “provides us with a source of attraction that can function independently of snow conditions,” he said. AFP

burning the facility to the ground. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky alleged after the first attack that the facilities were used to “supply sanctioned components for drone production and navigation equipment.” Kyiv calls its campaign “long-range sanctions,” saying the attacks are justified retribution for Russia’s nightly drone and missile barrages of its cities. AFP

NEW YORK—Two people were stabbed Thursday in New York by a man who shouted “Allahu akbar” (“God is the greatest” in Arabic) during the attacks before being apprehended, officials said. The two victims, who were targeted in separate attacks near Manhattan’s Central Park, were “an Asian male and a Jewish male,” New York City police commissioner Jessica Tisch said on X, adding that they were both hospitalized and “expected to survive.” The New York Police Department (NYPD) arrested the suspect, identified as 51-year-old Raul Morales. “Detectives are continuing to work the case and determine motive, but according to victim and witness statements, Morales yelled ‘Allahu akbar’ during both attacks,” Tisch said. “The NYPD is currently evaluating whether this is a potential hate crime.” Tisch added that the suspect has no record of psychiatric illness in police records. But New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani noted in a separate X post that “the initial investigation suggests that mental health may have been a factor.” AFP

No signs of life: China landslide toll rises to 11 BEIJING—The death toll from a landslide in southwestern China rose to 11, with rescuers still searching for 50 missing people in the rubble, where there are “no signs of life,” according to authorities. The landslide, which occurred last Friday in Chongqing’s Pengshui County, swept away several residential buildings at the foot of a mountain and along a riverbank. Hundreds of rescue workers have been deployed to the scene, where footage from state media showed a huge pile of rocks and earth had collapsed into a residential and commercial street. However, “following multiple rounds of life detection and search operations, no signs of life have been detected,” Pengshui authorities said in a statement on social media late Thursday. “Rescue efforts have been exceptionally challenging due to the massive volume of the landslide debris, the large size and sheer number of fallen boulders, the confined working space at the site, and the poor stability of the slopes,” the statement said. AFP

False hope: Fake news on quake victims spreads CARABALLEDA, Venezuela— Fake news that people in Venezuela’s quake zone have been discovered alive a month after the disaster struck is circulating rapidly across social media. Bereaved relatives are continuing to search for loved ones trapped under the rubble of flattened buildings following the 7.2 and 7.5 tremors that struck northern Venezuela on June 24. On Wednesday night, a false claim that three people had been found alive in the worst-hit city of La Guaira’s OPP 26 housing complex spread across social media. The disinformation made an already extremely difficult situation even worse for families with missing relatives. Clinging to hope, some of them rushed to the site. “They shouldn’t be twisting that information, because it gives you hope, and you know those things are impossible,” Naiti Sarria told AFP as she wiped away tears. AFP

UP IN THE AIR. This photograph shows tourists enjoying the new BalancAIR, a giant swing at the top of the Grand Chamossaire peak, above Villarssur-Ollon, western Switzerland on July 20, 2026. Inaugurated at the beginning of the month, the Grand Chamossaire swing is the latest initiative by Alpine resorts to attract visitors in summer and make their ski lifts profitable, as snowfall is becoming increasingly unreliable due to climate change. AFP

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RCIERESMERLETTE, France—With Tadej Pogacar on the brink of a record-equalling fifth Tour de France aged only 27 many people are saying his domination has made cycling boring. Former three-time world champion Peter Sagan said as much earlier this year, coming from a man who won a record seven green jerseys at the Tour. The same such accusations were laid against Spaniard Miguel Indurain when he won the Grande Boucle five times in a row from 1991-95, or Briton Chris Froome when he won four out of five between 2013 and 2017. They were 27 and 28 respectively when they won their first Tours. In cycling terms, Pogacar should only now be starting to reach his peak years, meaning he could go on to win several more Tours. “Winning is nice. I will never deny it’s a nice feeling to cross the line first,” he said on Wednesday. One of his chief rivals, Remco Evenepoel, said being beaten by Pogacar is anything but boring. “I see it as being super impressive, the performances that he’s putting out,” said the 26-year-old Belgian, who sat second in the Tour’s overall standings after Thursday’s 18th stage. “I’m looking up to that, I try to learn from that and I try to reach that level as well. “He’s a superstar, he’s the best rider ever, so I don’t think people should consider it as boring. “I understand if you watch television and he goes whenever he wants, it’s boring. “But for us, it’s a challenge and it’s a big honour to race against a champion like that.” Evenepoel has provided some excitement in this year’s Tour, beating Pogacar into second in back-to-back stages -- one a mountain top finish and the other a time-trial. But he has also been left in Pogacar’s wake when the reigning champion won three stages with uphill finishes. “It’s exciting to see it from very close by,” said Evenepoel. “You should not forget, we are witnessing history.” Boring to legendary Irish journalist David Walsh started

Abra, San Juan 5 stay 1-2 in MPBL SAN Juan banked on Orlan Wamar to tame Valenzuela City, 124-112, in overtime on Thursday and keep in step with pacesetter Abra Solid North in the SportsPlus MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 2026 Season at the Paco Arena in Manila. The Abra Weavers subdued the Mindoro Tamaraws, 97-81, in the opener of another triple-bill in the round-robin elimination phase of the two-division, 27-team tournament. The Knights nailed their 14th straight win and a 15-1 record, behind only the Abra Weavers’ 16-1 in the North division. Valenzuela fell to 9-11, while Mindoro tumbled to 8-9. Zamboanga edges Quezon City Zamboanga Sikat nipped Quezon City, 85-84, in the nightcap to keep its playoff hopes with a 7-11 card. Levi Hernandez’s 3-point play and triple sandwiched Paeng Are’s back-to-back drives to give Zamboanga an 82-75 buffer with 2 minutes and 32 seconds to go. Brandon Wilson shone for Zamboanga with 21 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists, followed by Hernandez with 15 points and 6 rebounds, Joseph Gabayni with 12 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists, and Jayson Puray with 10 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists. The Quezon City Black Bulls dropped to 8-10. The tournament returns to the Batangas City Coliseum on Friday, featuring games between Binan and Ilagan Isabela at 3 p.m., Caloocan and Basilan at 5 p.m., and Batangas and Rizal at 7 p.m.

Brandon Wilson of Zamboanga Sikat

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SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026

Is superstar Pogacar’s Tour domination boring?

UAE Team Emirates - XRG’s Slovenian rider Tadej Pogacar celebrates on the podium wearing the overall leader’s yellow jersey after the 18th stage of the 113th edition of the Tour de France cycling race. AFP

covering cycling in the 1980s and has seen the periods of dominance by Indurain and Froome, as well as the drugtainted years of Lance Armstrong and his US Postal outfit. Walsh wrote three books about Armstrong’s doping and was one of the chief voices exposing the sordid practices in that dark period of cycling history. Some people have questioned how Pogacar can be so dominant if he is not taking illegal substances but Walsh has no doubts about the twotime world champion. “There were Tours where other riders were just as dominant,” Walsh told AFP. “Lauren Fignon for example in

1984 was really dominant. “In a much less exciting way Miguel Indurain was dominant in the early 90s. “That left me a little bit cold. This one doesn’t. “Pogacar makes domination exciting.” Walsh compared Pogacar to tennis players like Pete Sampras and Roger Federer, but said that whereas those two were not dominant on every surface, “Pogacar rides in all the races that shouldn’t suit him” and usually wins there too. “He’s a generational talent and my argument would always be, enjoy him because we shall almost certainly not see his like again.” British magazine Cycling Weekly

argued it was the strength of Pogacar’s UAE Emirates-XRG team which made races dull, rather than the Slovenian’s swashbuckling long-range attacks and almost super-human uphill acceleration. French journalist Alexandre Roos, who works for l’Equipe, said you have to accept a certain amount of boredom in professional cycling. But he said that what might seem boring in the present, can often age like fine wine, pointing to Eddy Merckx’s stage 17 victory at the 1969 Tour. “The stage to Mourenx was boring,” said Roos. “But almost 60 years later, we still talk about that stage to Mourenx as a legendary Tour stage.” AFP

Dodgers return to White House despite fan anger WASHINGTON—The Los Angeles Dodgers visited the White House on Thursday to celebrate back-to-back World Series wins despite many fans’ anger over President Donald Trump’s immigration raids in their home city. Stars Mookie Betts and Enrique Hernandez notably skipped the ceremony in the Rose Garden, nearly nine months on from their stunning 2025 game-seven victory against the Toronto Blue Jays. But the vast majority of the roster, including Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani, watched on as Dodgers ownerchairman Mark Walter presented Trump with a personalized World Series ring and No. 47 jersey. It was a second consecutive visit for the Dodgers, who defeated the New York Yankees in the 2024 World Series and were honored by Trump the following April. “I’m thrilled to say welcome back to the White House, and maybe I’ll see you again next year,” said Trump. While visits are traditional for reigning MLB champions, the latest has sparked debate and anger, especially among the Dodgers’ vast, long-standing and loyal Latino fan base. Months after the team’s previous White House visit, Trump launched an immigration crackdown in Los Angeles. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) targeted undocumented migrants across the sprawling, heavily Latino city. The raids in garment factories, car washes and other workplaces sparked protests in which scores were injured during clashes with law enforcement. The Dodgers were widely criticized by fans for failing to speak out at the time. Thursday’s White House visit reopened those wounds, especially after the 2025 NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder declined to be feted by Trump. “I wish they didn’t show up. The Dodgers community is based off Hispanics, Latinos, so that’s a mistake,” Dodgers fan Jesse Lopez, 45, told AFP on Thursday. AFP

Hearn dismisses Fury talk of Joshua no-show for super fight LONDON—Anthony Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn has dismissed comments from Tyson Fury that the long-awaited clash between the two former world heavyweight boxing champions may not happen. Fury and Joshua are both back in the ring this week for bouts against Poland’s Mariusz Wach and Albania’s Kristian Prenga, respectively, that are seen as must-win warm-up fights if their ‘Battle of Britain’ is to go ahead. Fury, 37, faces Wach in the Thai resort of Pattaya on Friday in what is effectively a charity contest, with no live broadcast, while compatriot Joshua, 36, is in action the following day in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The British rivals are expected to finally meet in November, with a date and venue yet to be announced for a bout many boxing fans wish had taken place when at least one of the duo still held a world championship belt. Two-time heavyweight champion Joshua’s bout with Prenga will be his first professional fight since being involved in a car crash in Nigeria in December that killed two of his close friends. Fury, in a recent interview with Sky Sports, said he is prepared to face “somebody else” later this year. But Hearn insisted Fury was more likely to pull

Britain’s boxer Anthony Joshua arrives at the Jeddah Yacht Club. Joshua, a two-time heavyweight champion, will face Kristian Prenga at ‘The Comeback’ event in Saudi Arabia on July 25.

out given his record. “Look at history,” Hearn told Sky Sports. “Check the facts, check the resume. If you really want to

pick one fighter who’s more reliable than the other, I don’t think it’s a close-run race. “What fight has AJ ever pulled out of?...Don’t forget, AJ has not only fought every contender he could have, he also previously signed to fight Tyson Fury, who pulled out of the fight because of an arbitration ruling involving Deontay Wilder. “The only thing that’s going to stop the fight from happening in November is if one of these guys gets beat this weekend or picks up an injury.” Joshua, speaking Wednesday, said he was still struggling to process the deaths of Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele, who were both killed in the crash near Lagos on December 29. “It’s tough, every time I think about it, it hurts,” Joshua told the BBC. “Even talking about it now... pictures… it hurts but I keep my mind occupied you know. If I stop, you let it sink in and I’m not ready for it to sink in yet.” Ghami was Joshua’s full-time sport and exercise rehabilitation coach and worked with him for more than 10 years, with Ayodele, also a close friend, his personal trainer Saturday’s bout will be Joshua’s first competitive fight since his knockout loss to IBF world champion Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September 2024. AFP

Sustaining pickleball’s boom in the Philippines PHILIPPINE pickleball is no longer an emerging sport. It is becoming one of the country’s fastest-growing sporting movements. Courts are filling up. New clubs are forming. Local tournaments are drawing bigger fields. Players from different age groups and sporting backgrounds are discovering the game, turning what was once a recreational pastime into one of the country’s fastest-growing sporting communities. According to the Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF), the Philippines now has 492 affiliated pickleball clubs, more than 46,400 registered players, and 427 playing venues nationwide. The sport’s reach continues to expand through 86 dedicated pickleball courts across 29 malls, making the game more accessible to communities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. As participation continues to accelerate, the Philippines is attracting significant investment from across the global pickleball ecosystem. Robinsons Land and Kosmas Athletic Ventures are investing up to ₱1 billion to develop the

As an official partner of PPA Tour, RPO conducted on-court coaching clinics during the PPA’s Asia stop, providing players with hands-on instruction from RPO’s coaching team.

Helios Pickleball Center—Asia’s first tournament-grade pickleball facility featuring 25 professional-grade courts and a 2,000-seat stadium court. At the same time, UPA Asia has confirmed plans to bring multiple PPA Tour Asia events to the venue beginning in 2027, while JOOLA continues to strengthen its presence in the region through strategic partnerships with the tour. While these investments are accelerating participation and expanding

the sport’s footprint, long-term growth depends on more than infrastructure and competition. The next challenge is developing qualified coaches who can raise playing standards, strengthen clubs, and build a sustainable coaching ecosystem for the years ahead. As global organizations continue investing in tournaments, infrastructure, and player participation, RacketPro (RPO) APAC’s contribution is centered on coaching quality in the Philippines.

Connor Nguyen, Managing Director of RPO APAC

Through RacketPro APAC’s Philippines Tour across Manila, Cebu & Davao, which takes place from the end of July to the beginning of August, the organization focuses on equipping local coaches with internationally recognized education, structured coaching methodologies, and a long-term professional development pathway that supports the sustainable growth of the sport.

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SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026

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

Verstappen swerves around questions on Red Bull future BUDAPEST—Max Verstappen on Thursday swerved around questions on his future and declared he was taking things race by race with Red Bull as they work to develop their car. Twelve months on from declaring he was staying with the team for 2026, the four-time world champion chose not to give any clear response about his plans. “I feel good and from my side what I’m saying – that there’s nothing to say – is because there’s nothing going on,” the Dutch driver said ahead of this weekend’s Hungarian Grand Prix. “For me, I am just focused on trying to get the most from the car and that’s already complicated enough to deal with. That’s what I’m doing. This team is like a second family to me and of course I want to understand our car a bit better and get back to winning.” Verstappen, who is seventh in the drivers’ standings, added that he felt they were on an “upward trend”. “We’re still trying to understand the basics of the car. Some weekends, the performance has been a bit more straightforward. Sometimes we have a few issues. But it’s an upward trend. “If someone comes with an upgrade and it’s two-tenths or three-tents, it looks a bit different and so we have to take it race by race really.” Verstappen has a performance clause in his contract which is believed to allow him to leave if he is not a title contender, but in this transitional new ‘hybrid era’ there are no clearly more attractive seats available for him to take next year. Mercedes, Ferrari and McLaren have all made clear they are happy with and retaining their drivers. AFP

The Gilas Pilipinas Women’s 3x3 team celebrates after its upset win against Japan in the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series Batam Stop on Thursday night. FIBA

Gilas Women make FIBA 3×3 Batam Stop q’finals By Jeremiah Sevilla

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ANKING on the endgame heroics of Mikka Cacho, the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s 3x3 team barged into the quarterfinals of the FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series Batam Stop after pulling off a 17-15 upset against Japan in the pool stage on Thursday night at the Alun Alun Batam Centre in Indonesia. With the game tied at 15-all, Cacho drove hard to the basket and completed a cold-blooded and-one play off Miku Takahashi’s foul with 3.1

Max Verstappen

seconds left before the Women’s Series-ranked No. 35 Filipinas held on to stun the No. 20 Japanese squad. The crucial win in Pool D gave the Gilas Women their second knockout stage berth in the six stops they have joined so far under the professional circuit as they set up a quarterfinal match against No. 15 Thailand. Tantoy Ferrer led the Nationals with seven points and four rebounds while Cacho delivered six markers and five boards. Camille Clarin chipped in three points and newly naturalized player Elizabeth Means added one marker in the win. The Philippines cruised to a 9-3 lead in the decider as Ferrer hit a deuce, but Japan came storming back to make it a neck-and-neck battle down the stretch. After Clarin handed the advantage back to the Filipinas, 15-14, Takahashi went strong to the hoop for a layup and kept the Japanese in the game.

That set up Cacho’s clutch play in the next possession before Ufuoma Tanaka missed the potential game-tying two-pointer and Ferrer secured the board. The Gilas Women needed to break past the qualifying draw where they routed Vietnam, 2111, and nipped the much taller Slovakia side, 1615, to enter the pool stage. Cacho and the crew bowed to France, 9-21, in their opening pool phase assignment but bounced back big in the must-win match versus Japan to seal their knockout stage spot. The Nationals were battling Thailand at press time, with the winner advancing to face either No. 4 China or No. 6 Beijing in the semifinals. Meanwhile, the Manila quartet of Kaye Pingol, Sam Harada, Camille Malagar, and Lee Sario failed to advance to the main tournament after suffering narrow losses to Egypt, 18-20, and Mongolia, 18-22, in the qualifiers.

PH silat champion appeals for help after accident By Randy M. Caluag THE Philippine pencak silat community has launched an appeal for financial assistance for former Southeast Asian Games champion Dines Dumaan, who is set to undergo emergency surgery after sustaining a serious head injury in an accident. Dumaan, who won the gold medal for the Philippines at the 2017 Southeast Asian Games and captured a bronze medal at the 2018 Asian Games, is currently confined in a hospital after suffering severe injuries that require immediate surgery. According to his family, an initial payment of about P100,000 is needed to proceed with the life-saving operation. The appeal has drawn support from fellow athletes, coaches and members of the local pencak silat community, who described Dumaan

Dines Dumaan shows his medal Papart Ian

Dines Dumaan at his hospital bed

as a dedicated national athlete who proudly represented the country in

major international competitions. “Today, he is facing the most

important battle of his life,” the family’s appeal said, urging the public to extend financial assistance and prayers for the decorated Filipino fighter. Those who wish to help may send donations directly to Dumaan’s partner, Yhanq Asmad, who is also a member of the Philippine national pencak silat team. Supporters who are unable to contribute financially are also encouraged to include Dumaan in their prayers and share the appeal to reach more potential donors. Dumaan was among the country’s top pencak silat athletes during his competitive career, highlighted by his gold medal performance at the 2017 SEA Games and a bronze-medal finish at the 2018 Asian Games, achievements that helped raise the Philippines’ profile in the martial art on the regional stage.

Golden Tigresses book championship ticket UNDEFEATED University of Santo Tomas stormed to the championship round after a 2510, 25-19, 25-12, bludgeoning of Letran in the knockout semifinals of the 2026 Shakey’s Collegiate National Invitationals on Friday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. Save for some resistance they encountered in the second set, the Golden Tigresses snatched their sixth win in as many games with relative ease for a shot at a breakthrough crown. UST will challenge in the winner-takeall championship on Sunday at the Playtime FilOil Arena in San Juan, the survivor between Australian squad Southern Storm Melbourne and College of Saint Benilde in the other Final Four showdown, which is still being played as of press time. Team captain Regina Jurado smashed 11 of her 12 points on attacks and added three digs to lead the Espana-based squad, which hammered the Lady Knights with 32 kills. “Hindi po ako nagpapadala sa pressure ng underline (team captain uniform mark). I can play my game freely with the team,” said Jurado, who

alongside Angge Poyos sat out the Tigresses’ final elimination round game on Thursday. “Gusto namin magpatuloy ‘yung success ng UST dito,” she added as UST looks for a fitting follow-up to its high school team’s Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League Rising Stars Cup and Juniors National Invitationals conquests. Marga Altea led UST’s block party as the Golden Tigresses scored 11 kill blocks to frustrate Letran. Altea had four kill blocks to go with nine kills to finish with 13 points while Poyos scored 10 in the penultimate playdate of the tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner, and R and B Milk Tea. The Tigresses uncorked a 9-2 blast to turn a slim 11-8 lead in the third set into a 20-10 advantage. Jurado scored off a kill to give UST a 22-11 lead. Leonilyn Padilla answered for Letran before the Tigresses scored the match’s closing three points, capped by the Lady Knights’ last of 27 errors.

UST tossers celebrate their win over the Letran Lady Knights. Roman Prospero

No Letran player reached double-figure scoring, with main gunner Verenicce Colendra limited to only seven points.

Pepito debuts, Solar Spikers face Chameleons Games today (Vigan City, Ilocos Sur) 4 p.m. – Nxled vs Capital1 6:30 p.m. – PLDT vs Choco Mucho NXLED tests a Capital1 side missing its starting wingers as the Premier Volleyball League On Tour Showdown travels to Chavit Coliseum in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur today (Saturday). Without the firepower of Bella Belen and star pickups Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos, all eyes will be on 2026 Rookie Draft No. 2 overall pick Detdet Pepito as she makes her debut for the Solar Spikers in their 4 p.m. clash with the talentladen Chameleons - a marquee matchup worthy of the wait after a two-week break with both sides eager to make an early statement in the six-week pre-season festivities, where every result carries added weight. Capital1, which will not have its powerful trio due to national team commitment, also boast a formidable middle rotation bannered by Cherry Nunag, Ezra Madrigal, KC Galdones, Pauline Gaston and Pia Abbu, giving the squad balance and depth at the net against an Nxled side that has likewise reinforced its frontline. Pepito, a decorated libero in her studentathlete era, will form a dependable trio with Roma Mae Doromal and Rachel Jorvina. Meanwhile, Capital1’s second round selection Khy Cepada will reinforce the team’s wings that lack their Alas stars, joining Trisha Genesis, Ysa Jimenez, Leila Cruz, Sydney Niegos, and France Ronquillo. The Chameleons counter with a loaded lineup featuring former Cignal standout Jackie Acuña, MJ Phillips, Krich Macaslang, Aduke Ogunsanya and veteran Aby Maraño in the middle, while banking on the explosive wing combination of Brooke Van Sickle, Myla Pablo, Jonah Escamillan and Lyann De Guzman. Chiara Permentilla and EJ Laure are also expected to provide additional firepower whenever called upon.

BUSINESS

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SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026

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

AIR TRAFFIC SIMULATORS.

Department of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez joins the inauguration of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines’ (CAAP) new air traffic control simulators. The aviation industry, personnel and passengers are expected to benefit from the new Aerodrome, Enroute and Approach Simulators as air traffic personnel will be trained and equipped with the best knowledge and globally accepted standards in air traffic, says Lopez.

P151.9 billion 7-month investment pledges

174 Investment projects approved

26,047

Jobs expected from investments

Ecozone investments climbed 67% in 7 months T By Jenniffer B. Austria

HE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) said Friday it approved P151.9 billion worth of investments in the first seven months of 2026, up 67 percent from P91 billion a year ago as the agency continued to attract export-oriented and technologydriven projects.

PEZA approved 174 new and expansion projects from January to July, or 16 percent higher than the 150 projects approved in the same period last year. The approved investments are expected to generate $5.9 billion in exports and create 26,047 direct jobs nationwide. PEZA director-general Tereso Panga said the latest figures showed continued investor interest in the Philippines despite economic and geopolitical challenges.

“We are seeing investments that are increasingly export-oriented, technology-driven and aligned with the country’s long-term industrial development goals. These are the kinds of investments that generate quality jobs, strengthen our export sector and deepen the Philippines’ participation in global value chains,” Panga said. Manufacturing accounted for the largest share of the approved projects with 76, followed by 28

WATER SOURCES. The 80-million-liter-per-day (MLD) Calawis Water Treatment Plant,

a key component of Manila Water’s Antipolo Water System, supports the growing water requirements of Rizal. The plant, designed to serve about 900,000 customers, already provides water service to communities in Antipolo City and nearby areas. The Wawa-Calawis System is anchored on the 710-MLD Upper Wawa Dam. Manila Water continues to provide reliable water service to customers through a diversified supply portfolio including the Angat-La Mesa Water System, the Laguna Lake Water System and the Antipolo Water System.

Indonesia’s PT DSI to honor coal supply contracts with PH power firms, says DOE INDONESIA’S PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (PT DSI) will honor existing long-term coal supply contracts with Philippine power companies, the Department of Energy said Friday. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin led a Philippine delegation in high-level meetings in Jakarta to secure assurances on coal supply, strengthen bilateral energy cooperation and seek clarity on Indonesia’s new export governance framework for coal and other strategic natural resource commodities. Indonesia has mandated that coal exports be conducted through PT DSI, a state-owned enterprise. Garin said the policy shift had unsettled Philippine power generators. “Because their exports might be reduced, they might become expensive, or exports might stop,” she said. “The thing is, we are 95-percent dependent on imported coal, and 99 percent of that is from Indonesia. So, it’s really dependent on Indonesian coal. That will have an impact on our electricity, on our power supply,” Garin said. She said Philippine officials raised their concerns during the visit and sought clar-

ity on the new rules. “Their plan is they’re issuing guidelines in a few weeks so that we’ll have more clarity, and also how the impact will be, or what will be implemented next year first quarter,” Garin said. “So at least we have time to prepare if any major changes happen,” she said. The Department of Energy asked its Indonesian counterparts to honor existing long-term contracts with Philippine companies, Garin said. “If there are changes, maybe they can lower the price. But they assured us that it will be maintained,” she said, adding that Indonesia will issue guidelines within two weeks. The Philippine delegation included officials from the Department of Energy and the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta. Separate meetings were held with Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, led by Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto; the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, represented by Vice Minister for Energy and Mineral Resources Yuliot Tanjung; and PT DSI. Alena Mae S. Flores

information technology-business process management projects, 26 ecozone development projects, 15 facilities projects, 13 logistics projects, 10 domestic market projects, four tourism projects and two utilities projects. The Netherlands was the largest source of investments during the period, followed by South Korea, Singapore, Indonesia and Germany. It said that for July alone, the PEZA board approved 17 new and expansion projects worth P11.2 billion, lower than the P18.6 billion approved in July 2025. The projects approved this month are expected to generate $2.5 billion in exports and create 2,907 direct jobs. Four big-ticket projects approved this month include two manufacturing projects in Batangas, an export enterprise in Davao del Norte and an ecozone project in Cavite.

SunAsia to open Laguna Lake floating solar plants by 2028 By Alena Mae S. Flores TWO SunAsia Energy Inc. subsidiaries are building floating solar power plants worth a combined P12 billion in Laguna Lake, with commercial operations targeted to start Jan. 1, 2028. Nortesol II Inc. (N2I) and NewAsia Power Energy II Corp. (NPE2C) are each developing a 131.79-megawatt-peak floating photovoltaic plant, bringing the combined capacity of the two projects to 263.58 megawattpeak. N2I is developing the Cabuyao 1 Floating Photovoltaic Power Plant at an indicative cost of P6.02 billion, with a 25-year operating life through Dec. 31, 2053. NPE2C is developing the Sta. Rosa Floating Photovoltaic Power Plant at an estimated capital cost of P6.02 billion, also with a 25-year expected lifespan. Both projects fall under Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) Board Resolution 600, Series of 2021, which designated an initial area of up to 2,000 hectares for renewable energy use, with 1,000 hectares divided into 10 blocks. N2I holds Block 2 off the coast of Cabuyao, spanning 117.5 hectares, of which 100 hectares are allocated for floaters and panels and the remainder for navigational lanes. NPE2C holds Block 1 off the coast of Sta. Rosa, also covering 117.5 hectares under the same allocation. Initial project coordinates for both developments were set out in separate renewable energy contract area utilization agreements signed between the LLDA and each SunAsia unit.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

BUSINESS

B2 Manila

Standard

TODAY

SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com

SM Group on track for 40% GHG emissions cut by 2040 SM INVESTMENTS Corp., the parent company of the SM Group, said it remains on track to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent by 2040, supported by investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and other initiatives across its businesses. Speaking at a recent MUFG NOW Manila forum titled “Pathways to a Sustainable Future: Opportunities and Challenges,” Timothy Daniels, consultant and head of sustainability and investor relations at SM Investments, said the company’s emissions reduction goal builds on years of investment in efficiency and renewable energy across the group. “When we looked at our emissions, we identified where we could make meaningful reductions and developed a target supported by specific programs and investments,” Daniels said. “We wanted a goal that reflects what we can achieve based on actions

we are taking today.” “For us, sustainability helps reduce costs, improve reliability, and make our operations more resilient,” he added. “It’s simply part of how we run the business.” Across the group, SM has installed more than 200,000 solar panels on its properties, helping generate electricity and reduce dependence on grid power. Its mining subsidiary, Carmen Copper Corp., operates a 3-hectare floating solar facility at the Malubog Reservoir in Cebu. The facility’s 8,540 solar panels generate Career Opportunity in S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc. 4.99 megawatts (MW) of renewable Project Manager One (1) Vacancy energy, which could potentially supDescription: ply about 10 percent of theJobmine’s • Oversee construction projects from beginning to end. power needs. • Keep track of inventory, tools and equipment. SM has also expanded itsQualification: renewable energy investments through PhilSM Investments Corp.’s mining subsidiary, Carmen Copper Corp., operates a 3-hectare floating solar facility at the • Excellent knowledge of construction materials and equipment. Malubog Reservoir in Cebu. The facility’s ippine Geothermal Production Co., • Previous experience in a leadership role with strong and proven leadership skills. 8,540 solar panels generate 4.99 megawatts of renewable energy, which could supply about 10 percent which operates geothermal steam • Previous workpotentially experience in construction management or another similar of role.the mine’s power needs. • Understanding of construction management processes. fields in South Luzon. • • • •

Able to plan ahead.

Stocks retreat as peso hits new bottom P Excellent time management ability.

Able to multitask with a strong understanding of core manager duties.

Excellent communication skills and interpersonal abilities, including negotiation skills. Applications may be sent to: sandpconstructiontechanddevt@gmail.com

Company/Employer

Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position

Company Name: S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc.

Name: 1. Yuan Shuai

“The local stock market declined as “If directions are sustained, both Address: sentiment got hammered by the rise in are expected to pose upside risks to 1. Pasay City global oil prices, with Brent crude oil inflation,” Philstocks added. Nationality: HILIPPINE shares slipped anew Friday as a 1. Chinese hitting $100 per barrel, and the furThree sectoral indices finished lowweakening peso against the dollar and rising global Nature of Business: Construction Intendedof period ther weakening theof employment: local currency er, led by financials, which fell 26.70 1 - Three 3(years) to record lows,” Philstocks Financial or 1.38 percent, to 1,907.56. crude oil prices weighed on investor sentiment.S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc. hereby declares that the above-namedpoints, foreign Inc. said. The industrial index dropped 31.15 national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position. The companyinhas the intentionThe to employ the saidclosed foreign national and apply forto an Alien Permit or 0.37 percent, to 8,447.60, peso at 61.847 theEmployment points, The benchmark Philippine Stock 6,281.01. The broader all shares with the Department of Labor and Employment - National Capital Region located at Dole Central office US dollar Friday, down from 61.75 while property declined 10.48 points, Exchange index (PSEi) shed 2.11 dex also declined by 4.59 points, or muralla st corner general Luna.. on Thursday. or 0.55 percent, to 1,913.58. points, or 0.03 percent, to close at 0.13 percent, to 3,422.48.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

Company Address: 12/F Times Plaza Bldg, United Nation Ave.cor.taft Ave.brgy.670 Ermita,City Of Manila

Career Opportunity in S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc.

Career Opportunity in S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc.

Project Manager

Chinese Construction Technician

One (1) Vacancy

Oversee construction projects from beginning to end.

Qualification:

• • • • • • • •

Keep track of inventory, tools and equipment. Excellent knowledge of construction materials and equipment. Previous experience in a leadership role with strong and proven leadership skills. Previous work experience in construction management or another similar role. Understanding of construction management processes. Able to plan ahead. Excellent time management ability. Able to multitask with a strong understanding of core manager duties.

Job Description:

• • •

Manage and supervise facility development and image enhancement projects. Follow all state and safety requirements to implement good safety conditions at work site.

• • • • •

Able to speak and communicate using Mandarin is an advantage. Able to explain problems simply and clearly. Proficient in MS Office. Able to follow health and safety regulations. Excellent mathematical and problem-solving skills.

Excellent communication skills and interpersonal abilities, including negotiation skills.

Company/Employer

Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position

Company Name: S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc.

Name: 1. Yuan Shuai

Company Address: 12/F Times Plaza Bldg, United Nation Ave.cor.taft Ave.brgy.670 Ermita,City Of Manila

Address: 1. Pasay City

Nature of Business: Construction

Intended period of employment: 1 - Three 3(years)

Nationality: 1. Chinese

Applications may be sent to: sandpconstructiontechanddevt@gmail.com Company/Employer

Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position

Company Name: S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc.

Name: 1. Yang Chonghua, 2. Yang Shu, 3. Liu Hui

Company Address: Address: 12/F Times Plaza Bldg, United Nation 1-3. Manila City Ave.cor.taft Ave.brgy.670 Ermita,City Of Nationality: Manila 1-3. Chinese Nature of Business: Construction

Intended period of employment: 1-3 - Three 3(years)

S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc. hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position. The company has the intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment - National Capital Region located at Dole Central office Career in Vehicle murallaOpportunity st corner general Luna.. Master Service Corp.

S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc. hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position. The company has the intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment - National Capital Region located at Dole Central office Career Opportunity in Vehicle Master Service Corp. muralla st corner general Luna..

Service And Parts Director

Marketing And Sales Consultant

One (1) Vacancy Career Opportunity in in Vehicle Career Opportunity VehicleMaster MasterService ServiceCorp. Corp. Job Description: Career Opportunity in S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc. Service And Parts Director Service And Parts Director • The Service and Parts Director oversees the overall operations of the service department Chinese Construction Technician One (1) Vacancy One(3) (1)Opportunity Vacancy and parts department of theService company. Career in Vehicle Master Corp. Three Vacancy Job Description: position is responsible for ensuring efficient workshop operations, high customer Job Description: Job Description: Service AndThe Parts Director

The Service and Parts Director oversees theand overall operations of the service department • satisfaction, profitability, inventory control, effective coordination between technicians, One (1) The Service and Partsfacility oversees the of the service department •Vacancy Manage and supervise development andoverall image operations enhancement projects. and parts department ofDirector the company.

•

service advisors, and parts personnel. and parts department of the company.efficient workshop Coordinate and communication clients, vendors, and stakeholders. Job Description: • The positionlogistics is responsible for ensuring between operations, high customer

Qualification:

satisfaction, profitability, inventory control, and effective between technicians, TheService position is responsible foroversees ensuring efficient workshop operations, highatcustomer Follow all state and requirements tothe implement goodcoordination safety conditions work site. The and Parts Director overall operations of themanagement. service department •••• Strong knowledge ofsafety vehicle repair, diagnostics, and automotive parts service advisors, and parts personnel. Qualification: satisfaction, profitability, inventory control, and effective coordination between technicians, and parts department of the company. Qualification: ••• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills. service advisors, and partsfor personnel. Able to speak and communicate using Mandarin is an advantage. The position is responsible ensuring efficient workshop operations, high customer Qualification: Strong knowledge of vehicle repair, diagnostics, and automotive partsrelations. management. ••• Experience in handling service KPIs, systems, and coordination customer satisfaction, profitability, inventory control, and effective between technicians, Able to explain problems simply and inventory clearly. service and parts personnel. •• • Proficient Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills. systems Strong advisors, knowledge of vehicle repair, diagnostics, and automotive parts management. • in MS Microsoft Office and dealership/service management is a plus. Office. Qualification: Experience in handling service KPIs, inventory systems, andskills. customer relations. Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational Able to follow health and safety regulations. ••••• Strong and decision-making abilities. Strongproblem-solving knowledge of vehicle repair, diagnostics, and automotive parts management. Proficient in Microsoft Office andKPIs, dealership/service management systems is a plus. Excellent mathematical and problem-solving skills.systems, Experience inexperience handling service inventory and service customer relations. ••••• Preferably in automotive dealerships or fleet operations. Excellent with leadership, communication, and organizational skills. • • Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Applications may be sent to: Proficient in Microsoft Office and dealership/service management systems is a plus. Experience in handling Applications service KPIs, may inventory systems, and customer relations. be sent to: sandpconstructiontechanddevt@gmail.com ••• Preferably with experience in automotive dealerships or fleet service operations. Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities. vehiclemasterservicecorp@gmail.com • Proficient in Microsoft Office and dealership/service management systems is a plus. Name of foreign national Company/Employer Applications may be sent to: intending to apply for the position • Strong Preferably with experience inName automotive dealerships or fleet service •Company/Employer problem-solving and decision-making abilities. of foreign national intending to applyoperations. for the position vehiclemasterservicecorp@gmail.com Company Name: S & P Construction

Name:

Company Name: Vehicle Master

Name:

•Company/Employer Preferably with in automotive dealerships or3. fleet service operations. Technology & Development Co., experience Inc. 1. Yang Chonghua, 2. sent Yang Shu, Liu Hui Company Name: Vehicle Master Name: Applications be to: Name ofmay foreign national intending to apply for the position Service Corp. 1. Gu Qin may be sent to: vehiclemasterservicecorp@gmail.com Applications Company Address: Address:

12/F Times Plaza Bldg, United Nationvehiclemasterservicecorp@gmail.com 1-3. Manila City Company Address: Address: Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position Service Corp. 1. Gu Qin Company/Employer Ave.cor.taft Ave.brgy.670 Ermita,City Of Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position Company/Employer 27 T. Santiago St., Canumay West 1. Quezon City Nationality: Company Address: Address: Manila Company Name: Vehicle Master Name: 1-3. Chinese Valenzuela 27Company T. Santiago St., Canumay West 1.Name: Quezon Name: Vehicle Master Nationality: Service Corp. 1. Gu QinCity Nature Business: Construction Intended period of employment: Valenzuela ServiceofCorp. 1.Chinese Gu Qin 1. Nationality: Company Address: 1-3Address: - Three 3(years) Company Address: 1.Address: Chineseperiod of employment: Nature of Business: Repairs And Intended 27 T. Santiago St., Canumay West 1. Quezon City S27 &P & Development Co., Inc. hereby declares that the above-named foreign T.Construction Santiago St., Technology Canumay West 1. Quezon City Maintenance Of willing, Motor Vehicles 1Intended - Three Nature ofisBusiness: Repairs And period employment: Valenzuela national able, and qualified to perform the3(years) servicesofand job description for this position. The Valenzuela Nationality: Maintenance Of Motor Vehicles 1Nationality: - Three 3(years) company has the intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for annational Alien Employment Permit Vehicle Master Service Corp. hereby declares that the above-named foreign is able, willing, and 1.Chinese Chinese 1. with theMaster Department of Corp. Labor hereby and Employment - National Capital Region located at DoleisCentral office and Vehicle Service declares that the foreign national able, willing, qualified to perform the services and job description forabove-named this position. The company has the intention to muralla stof corner general Luna.. Nature of Business: Repairs And Intended period of employment: Nature Business: Repairs And Intended period employment: qualified to perform the services andapply job description for thisof position. The company the intention to employ the said foreign national and for an Alien Employment Permit with the has Department of Labor Maintenance Vehicles 1for Maintenance Of Motornational Vehicles 1--Three Three 3(years) employ the saidOf foreign and applylocated an Alien Employment Permit withstthe Department of Labor and Employment -Motor National Capital Region at3(years) Dole Central office muralla corner general Luna.. and Employment National Capital Region located at Dole Central office muralla st corner general Luna.. Vehicle VehicleMaster MasterService ServiceCorp. Corp.hereby herebydeclares declaresthat thatthe theabove-named above-namedforeign foreignnational nationalisisable, able,willing, willing, and and qualified qualifiedtotoperform performthe theservices servicesand andjob jobdescription descriptionfor forthis thisposition. position.The Thecompany companyhas hasthe the intention intention to to employ employthe thesaid saidforeign foreignnational nationaland andapply applyfor foran anAlien AlienEmployment EmploymentPermit Permitwith withthe theDepartment Department of of Labor Labor and Employment National Capital Region located at Dole Central office muralla st corner general Luna.. Career Opportunity Vehicle Master Service Corp. and Employment -inNational Region located at Dole Central office muralla st corner general Luna.. Career Opportunity in VehicleCapital Master Service Corp.

Chinese Chinese Project Project Manager Manager Two (2) Vacancy Vacancy

Career Opportunity in Vehicle Master Service Corp.

Description: Opportunity in Vehicle Master Service Corp. JobCareer Description:

Chinese Project Manager

• Project Managing daily daily cash cash balances; balances;Ensuring Ensuringthat thatcash cashflows flowsare areadequate adequateto toallow allowbusiness businessunits units Managing Two (2) Vacancy Chinese Manager to operate operate effectively. effectively. to

•

Two (2) Vacancy Job Description: Preparation of of financial financialaccounts accountsand andother otherreports reportsbased basedon onaccounting accountingstandards. standards. •• Preparation

•

Job Description: Managing daily cash balances; Ensuring that cash flows are adequate to allow business units

•• •

Arranging financial audits and reviews as required. Arranging financial audits and reviews as required. to operate effectively. Managing daily cash balances; Ensuring that cash flows are adequate to allow business units Qualification: • Preparation of financial accounts and other reports based on accounting standards. to operate • Have fluent oreffectively. Native Mandarin Traditional Chinese language skills in speaking, reading, and ••• Have fluent or Nativeaudits Mandarin Traditional Chinese language skills in speaking, reading, and Arranging financial and reviews as required. writing areas. Preparation of financial accounts and other reports based on accounting standards. Qualification: writing areas. • • Strong planning, problem-solving and organizational & time management skills and is able Arranging financial audits and reviews as required. •• Strong problem-solving organizational time management skills and is ableand Have planning, fluent or Native Mandarin and Traditional Chinese&language skills in speaking, reading, Qualification:

to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines. areas. towriting prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines. • With good written and oral communication skills. Have fluent or Native Mandarin Traditional Chinese language skills in speaking, reading, and • With Strong planning, and organizational & time management skills and is able good written problem-solving and oral communication skills. mayand be deadlines. sent to: writing areas. to prioritize and manageApplications multiple tasks vehiclemasterservicecorp@gmail.com Applications may be sent to: Strong planning, and organizational & time management skills and is able • With good writtenproblem-solving and oral communication skills. vehiclemasterservicecorp@gmail.com Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position Company/Employer to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines. Applications may be sent to: Name of foreignskills. national intending to apply for the position CompanyCompany/Employer Name:With Vehicle Master Name: good written and oral communication vehiclemasterservicecorp@gmail.com Service Corp. 1. Wu Mingyang, 2. On Dich Bieu Company Name: Vehicle Master Name:Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position Company/Employer Applications may be sent to: Company Address: Address: Service Corp. 1. Wu Mingyang, 2. On Dich Bieu vehiclemasterservicecorp@gmail.com Name: Vehicle Master 27Company T. Santiago St., Canumay West 1.Name: Mandaluyong City 2. Quezon City Service Corp. 1. Wu Mingyang, 2. On Dich Bieu Company Address: Address: Valenzuela Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position Company/Employer Nationality: 27Company T. Santiago St., Canumay West 1. Mandaluyong City 2. Quezon City Address: Address: 1. Name: Chinese 2. Vietnamese Company Name: Vehicle Master Valenzuela 27 T. Santiago St., Canumay West 1. Mandaluyong City 2. Quezon City Nationality: Service 1. Wu Mingyang, On Dich Bieu Nature of Corp. Business: Repairs And Intended period of 2. employment: Valenzuela 1.Nationality: Chinese 2. Vietnamese Maintenance Of Motor Vehicles 1 - Three 3(years), 2 - Two 2(years) Company Address: 1.Address: Chinese 2. Vietnamese Nature of Business: Repairs And Intended period of employment: Vehicle Master Service Corp. hereby that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and 27 T. Santiago St., Canumay West declares 1. Mandaluyong City 2. Quezon City Nature of Business: Repairs And Intended period 2of- employment: Maintenance Of Motor - Three 3(years), Two 2(years) qualified to perform theVehicles services and job 1description for this position. The company has the intention to Valenzuela Maintenance Of Motor Vehicles 1Nationality: - Three 3(years), 2 - Two 2(years) employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the is Department of and Labor Vehicle Master Service Corp. hereby declares that the above-named foreign national able, willing, 1. Chinese 2.above-named Vietnamese and Employment - National Capital located Dole office muralla st has corner general Luna.. Vehicle Master Service Corp. hereby declares thatatthe foreign national is able, willing, qualified to perform the services andRegion job description for thisCentral position. The company the intention toand qualified tosaid perform services and job description for this position. The with company has the intention to employ theof foreignthe national and apply for an Alienperiod Employment Permit the Department of Labor Nature Business: Repairs And Intended of employment: employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department of Labor andMaintenance EmploymentOf- National Capital Region located at Dole Central office muralla st corner general Luna.. Motor Vehicles 1 - Three 3(years), 2 - Two 2(years) and Employment - National Capital Region located at Dole Central office muralla st corner general Luna.. Qualification:

••

• •

Vehicle Master Service Corp. hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position. The company has the intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment - National Capital Region located at Dole Central office muralla st corner general Luna..

PLDT Enterprise is advancing discussions on artificial intelligence’s impact on workplace operations through a series of speaking engagements, workshops, and executive discussions focused on digital and cyber resilience, preemptive defense, data protection, and the emerging role of agentic AI in business.

Coordinate logistics and communication between clients, vendors, and stakeholders.

Qualification:

Applications may be sent to: sandpconstructiontechanddevt@gmail.com

•

AI DISCUSSIONS.

Three (3) Vacancy

Job Description:

• •

Meanwhile, holding firms rose 4.61 points, or 0.10 percent, to 4,426.42. Services gained 34.65 points, or 1.03 percent, to 3,396.28, while mining and oil increased 90.80 points, or 0.58 percent, to 15,827.88. Value turnover reached P5.37 billion, while foreign investors remained net sellers with outflows of P48.19 million.

Ten (10) Vacancy Career CareerOpportunity OpportunityininVehicle VehicleMaster MasterService ServiceCorp. Corp. Job Description:

Marketing And Sales Consultant

Marketing And Sales Consultant • Identify effective marketing campaigns that will reach targeted audiences effectively and

Ten (10) Vacancy Ten (10) Vacancy efficiently. Career Opportunity in Vehicle Master Service Corp.

Job Description: Qualification:

Job Description: Marketing And Sales Consultant Identify effective marketing will reach targeted audiences •• Strong knowledge of sales andcampaigns persuasionthat techniques coupled with excellenteffectively knowledgeand of Ten (10)•Vacancy Identify effective marketing campaigns that will reach targeted audiences effectively and efficiently. the products. Qualification: efficiently. Job Description:

•• • ••

of data analysis and market research. Qualification: Knowledge Strong knowledge of sales and persuasion techniques coupled with excellent knowledge of

Identify effective marketing campaigns that will reach targeted audiences effectively and the products. Intuition about customer desires and practical needs. coupled with excellent knowledge of Strong knowledge of sales and persuasion techniques efficiently. the products. Qualification: • Knowledge of data analysis and market research.

Applications may be sent to:

••

Strong knowledge of salesdesires and techniques Knowledge of data analysis andpersuasion market research. Intuition about customer and practical needs. coupled with excellent knowledge of vehiclemasterservicecorp@gmail.com the products. Intuition about customerApplications desires and practical needs. be sent to: intending to apply for the position Name ofmay foreign national Company/Employer • Knowledge of data vehiclemasterservicecorp@gmail.com analysis and market research. Applications may be sent to: Company•Name:Intuition Vehicle Master Name: about customer desires and practical needs. Name of foreign intending apply for the4. position Company/Employer vehiclemasterservicecorp@gmail.com Service Corp. 1. Wang Xiaoyu, 2. Thainational Le Chau, 3. TrinhtoQuang Vong, Tran Thi Applications may be sent Hanh, 5. Tran Thi Thuy An,to: 6. Nguyen Thi My Hung, 7. Ma Yanjie, Company Name: Vehicle Master Name: Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position Company/Employer vehiclemasterservicecorp@gmail.com 8.1.Kan Ziwei, 9. Huang Changbo, 10.3.Cao Chuanxiang Service Corp. Wang Xiaoyu, 2. Thai Le Chau, Trinh Quang Vong, 4. Tran Thi Hanh, 5. Tran Thi Thuy An, 6. intending Nguyen Thi My Hung, 7. position Ma Yanjie, CompanyCompany/Employer Name: Vehicle Master Name: Name of foreign national to apply for the Company Address: Address: 8. Kan Ziwei, 9. Huang Changbo, 10. Cao Chuanxiang Service Corp. 1. Wang Xiaoyu, 2. Thai Le Chau, 3. Trinh Quang Vong, 4. Tran Thi Name: Vehicle Master 27Company T. Santiago St., Canumay West 1. Name: Manila 2-3. Quezon City 4-6,8. Makati City 7. Pasig City 9. Hanh, 5. Xiaoyu, Tran Thi2.Thuy 6. Nguyen Thi My Hung, 7. Ma Yanjie, Company Address: Address: Service Corp. 1. Wang ThaiAn, Le Chau, 3. Trinh Quang Vong, 4. Tran Thi Valenzuela Parañaque City 10. Pasay City 8.Manila Kan 5. Ziwei, Huang Changbo, 10. Cao Chuanxiang 27 T. Santiago St., Canumay West 1. 2-3.9. Quezon Makati Pasig7.City Hanh, Tran Thi ThuyCity An, 4-6,8. 6. Nguyen ThiCity My 7. Hung, Ma 9. Yanjie, Nationality: Valenzuela Parañaque City Pasay City 8. Kan Ziwei, 9. 10. Huang Changbo, 10. Cao Chuanxiang

•

Company Address:

Address: 1,7-10. Chinese 2-6. Vietnamese

Nationality: Company Address: Address: 27 T. Santiago St., Canumay West 1. Manila 2-3. Quezon City 4-6,8. Makati City 7. Pasig City 9. 1,7-10. Chinese 2-6. Vietnamese 27 T. Santiago St., Canumay West 1. Manila 2-3. CityCity 4-6,8. Makati City 7. Pasig City 9. Nature of Business: Repairs And Intended period of Valenzuela Parañaque CityQuezon 10.employment: Pasay Valenzuela Of Motor Vehicles Parañaque City 10. Pasay Maintenance 1,4-10 - Three 3(years), 2-3 -City Two 2(years) Nature of Business: Repairs And Intended period of employment: Nationality: Nationality: Maintenance MotorCorp. Vehicles 1,4-10 Three 3(years), 2-3foreign - Two national 2(years) is able, willing, and Vehicle MasterOf Service hereby declares that- the above-named 1,7-10. Chinese 2-6. Vietnamese 1,7-10. Chinese 2-6. Vietnamese qualified perform the services and job description for this position. The company has isthe intention Vehicle to Master Service Corp. hereby declares that the above-named foreign national able, willing,toand Nature of Business: Repairs And Intended period of employment: Naturethe of Business: Repairs And Intended period employment: employ foreign national and for an Alien Employment Permit the Department of Labor qualified tosaid perform the services andapply job description for thisofposition. The with company has the intention to Maintenance Offoreign Motor national Vehicles and apply1,4-10 1,4-10 -Alien ThreeEmployment 3(years), 2-3 -- Two 2(years) Maintenance Of Motor Vehicles Three 3(years), 2-3 Two 2(years) employ the said for an Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment - National Capital Region located at Dole Central office muralla st corner general Luna.. and Employment National Capital Region located at Dole Central office muralla st corner general Luna.. Vehicle Master Master Service Service Corp. Corp. hereby hereby declares declares that that the the above-named above-named foreign Vehicle foreign national national is is able, able, willing, willing, and and qualified to to perform perform the the services services and and job job description description for for this this position. position. The qualified The company company has has the the intention intention to to employ Labor employ the the said said foreign foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department of Labor and Capital Region located at Dole&Central Career Opportunity --inNational S & P Construction Technology Development Co.,stInc. and Employment Employment National office muralla corner general Luna.. Career Opportunity in S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc.

Razon’s ICTSI expands in Brazil with $130-m bulk port acquisition By Darwin G. Amojelar INTERNATIONAL Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) is acquiring two dry bulk port terminal concessions in Brazil for about $130 million, expanding its footprint in one of the world’s largest agricultural exporters. The Enrique K. Razon Jr.-led global port operator said its wholly owned subsidiary, ICTSI Americas B.V., signed a stock purchase and sale agreement with SIMPAR S.A. and CS Brasil Holding e Locação S.A. to acquire 100 percent ownership of HSIM Participações e Holding Ltda. The transaction, valued at BRL650 million (around $130 million), gives ICTSI full ownership of ATU12 Arrendatária Portuária SPE S.A. and ATU18 Arrendatária Portuária SPE S.A., which hold the long-term operating rights to the ATU12 and ATU18 terminals at Aratu Port in Bahia state, northeastern Brazil. The adjacent terminals specialize in the import and export ofManila agricultural products, a key sector of Brazil’s economy. Both facilities recently completed a comprehensive modernization and Standard TODAY expansion program, enhancing their capacity to accommodate increasing cargo volumes and the continued growth of the country’s agricultural trade.

Chinese Service Technical Support Chinese Service Technical Support One One(1) (1)Vacancy Vacancy

Career Opportunity in S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc.

Career Opportunity in Yifa International Holdings Corp.

Chinese Technical • Service Provides technical Support support and assistance for construction projects, focusing on

Bilingual Marketing Manager

Career Opportunity in S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc. Job Description: Job Description:

• Service Provides technicalSupport support and assistance for construction projects, focusing on Chinese Technical One (1) Vacancy communication suppliers, oror engineers. communicationand andcoordination coordinationwith withChinese Chineseworkers, workers, suppliers, engineers. One (1) Vacancy

One (1) Vacancy

Helpstroubleshoot troubleshootequipment equipmentissues, issues,translate translatetechnical technical instructions, and ensure smooth •• Helps instructions, and ensure smooth Job Description: Provides technical • operations operations on-site. support and assistance for construction projects, focusing on on-site. andsupport coordination with Chinese workers, suppliers, engineers. Qualification: • communication Provides technical and assistance for construction projects,orfocusing on Qualification: communication and coordination with translate Chinese workers, or engineers. Preferably Chinese speaker (Mandarin) cancommunicate communicate well with Chinese nationals. Helps troubleshoot equipment issues, technicalsuppliers, instructions, and ensure smooth ••• Preferably Chinese speaker (Mandarin) ororcan well with Chinese nationals. operations on-site. equipment • Helps troubleshoot issues, translate technical or instructions, ensure smooth • Vocational/Technical background (electrical, mechanical, equipmentand maintenance • Vocational/Technical background (electrical, mechanical, or equipment maintenance is is anan Qualification:

Job Description:

Basic knowledge of construction tools, equipment, and safety procedures. •••• Basic knowledge of construction tools, equipment, and safety Vocational/Technical background (electrical, mechanical, or procedures. equipment maintenance is an Preferably Chinese speaker (Mandarin) or can communicate well with Chinese nationals. • Good communication and troubleshooting skills. advantage). • • Good communication and troubleshooting skills. Vocational/Technical background (electrical, mechanical, or equipment maintenance is an • Willing to work on construction sites. Basic to knowledge of construction tools, equipment, and safety procedures. • • Willing work on construction sites. advantage). Applications may beskills. sent to: • Good communication and troubleshooting • Basic knowledgesandpconstructiontechanddevt@gmail.com of construction tools, Applications mayequipment, be sent to: and safety procedures. • Willing to work on construction sites. sandpconstructiontechanddevt@gmail.com •Company/Employer Good communication and troubleshooting skills. Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position Applications may be sent to: Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position Company/Employer •Name:Willing work on construction sites. Company S & P to Construction Name: sandpconstructiontechanddevt@gmail.com

Qualification:

Job Description:

•

Qualification:

advantage). operations on-site. advantage). Preferably Chinese speaker (Mandarin) or can communicate well with Chinese nationals.

Technology & Development Co., Inc. 1. Zhu Hongyu Company Name: S & P Construction Name: Name may of foreign national Company/Employer Applications be sent to: intending to apply for the position Technology & Development Co., Inc. 1.Address: Zhu Hongyu Company Address: sandpconstructiontechanddevt@gmail.com Company S & PUnited Construction Name: 12/F TimesName: Plaza Bldg, Nation 1. Taguig City Company Address: Technology & Development Co., Inc. Address: 1. Zhu Hongyu Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position Company/Employer Ave.cor.taft Ave.brgy.670 Ermita,City 12/F Times Plaza Bldg, United Nation 1.Nationality: Taguig City Of Manila Address: Company Address: 1. Chinese Company Ave.brgy.670 Name: S & P Construction Name: Ave.cor.taft Ermita,City 12/F Times Plaza Bldg, United Nation Nationality: 1. Taguig City Technology & Development Co., Inc. 1. Zhu Hongyu OfNature Manilaof Business: Construction Ave.cor.taft Ave.brgy.670 Ermita,City 1.Intended Chinese period of employment: Nationality: 1 - Three 3(years) Of Manila Address: Company Address: 1. Chinese Nature of Business: Construction Intended period of employment: Times Plaza Bldg, United Nation 1. Taguig S12/F & P Construction Technology & Development Co.,City Inc. hereby declares that the above-named foreign 1 -Intended Three 3(years) Nature of Business: Construction of and employment: national is able, willing, andErmita,City qualified to perform theperiod services job description for this position. The Ave.cor.taft Ave.brgy.670 Nationality: 1 Three 3(years) has the intention to employ the said foreign applythat for the an Alien Employment Permit Scompany &OfPManila Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc.national hereby and declares above-named foreign 1. Chinese with the Department of Labor and Employment National Capital located Dole CentralThe office S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc. hereby declares that the foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and jobRegion description foratabove-named this position. muralla st corner general Luna.. national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position. The company the intention to employ the said foreignperiod national apply for an Alien Employment Permit Nature has of Business: Construction Intended of and employment: company has the intention employ the 1said national apply for anat Alien Permit with the Department of Labortoand Employment -foreign National Capitaland Region located DoleEmployment Central office - Three 3(years) with the Department ofLuna.. Labor and Employment - National Capital Region located at Dole Central office muralla st corner general S & P Construction Technology & Development Co., Inc. hereby declares that the above-named foreign muralla st corner general Luna.. national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position. The company has the intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment - National Capital Region located at Dole Central office muralla st corner general Luna..

•

The Bilingual Marketing Manager is responsible for planning and implementing marketing strategies to promote the company's products and services in both local and international markets.

• • • • •

Ensures clear communication and coordination with foreign partners or clients using a second language. Can speak English and one additional language (e.g., Mandarin, Korean, or Japanese). With experience in marketing or business development. Strong communication, coordination, and leadership skills. Knowledge in digital marketing is an advantage. Applications may be sent to: yifaintholdingscorp@gmail.com

Company/Employer

Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position

Company Name: Yifa International Holdings Corp.

Name: 1. Chen Peng

Company Address: Unit 2306, 23/F Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave., Brgy Bel-Air Makati City

Address: 1. Mandaluyong City

Nature of Business: (Not Specified)

Intended period of employment: 1 - Three 3(years)

Nationality: 1. Chinese

Yifa International Holdings Corp. hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position. The company has the intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment - National Capital Region located at Dole Central office muralla st corner general Luna..

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

BUSINESS

B3 SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

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Yuchengco Group unit reaches milestone on Capiz battery project YUCHENGCO-led EcoSolar Energy Corp. on Friday announced the mechanical completion of its 20-megawatt / 40-megawatt-hour Panitan Energy Storage Project (PESP), the first energy storage facility in Capiz province. Completed in seven months, the facility will proceed to testing and commissioning as soon as requisite government approvals are released. The milestone ceremony, held July 23 at the project site in Barangay Timpas, Panitan, was attended by representatives from national and local government units, host communities, and industry partners. “This milestone comes at a time when power shortfalls and grid instability in the Visayas continue to affect businesses and residents,” AUCTION SALE ESEC president ACME PAWNSHOPS INC. Francisco Delfin Auction sale on July 05, Jr. said. 2026 Alabang Town Center ESEC is a Stall 2074 U/L, 2:00 pm G/F special purMajalco Bldg. Benavidez pose company St., Legaspi Village, Makati of PetroGreen and Makati and 4:00 pm Energy Corp. Glorietta 3 Ayala Center (PGEC), the reLegaspi Village Makati City newable energy All items Pawned February arm of publicly 01- 28, 2026 listed PetroEn-

ergy Resources Corp. (PERC). “When completed in the fourth quarter of 2026, the PESP will bring practical benefits to Capiz by responding quickly to grid fluctuations, minimizing power interruptions, and providing local reserve power that can reduce reliance on costly diesel generation or distant power sources during emergencies,” Delfin said. Department of Energy undersecretary Mario Marasigan emphasized the important role of battery energy storage in supporting greater renewable energy grid integration. “There are many projects that mark their many firsts, but there are a few projects that can actually deliver. And the PESP is one of those projects that delivered,” Marasigan said. “With its two-hour storage capacity, the PESP is expected to help stabilize the Panay-Guimaras-Negros grid by storing excess energy during periods of surplus generation and supplying it when demand increases or generation declines,” he added. “More importantly, it supports the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, ensuring a steadier and more dependable electricity supply for the people and businesses of Capiz.” Alena Mae S. Flores

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 Certified true copy of ACR or 1-Card Certificate/s of petitioner’s child/ children (issued by BI);

SCN FORM NO. 1 (R.A. NO. 9139)

 Certified true copy of NBCR/s of petitioner’s child/children (issued also by BT);

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON NATURALIZATION IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION OF SIDDARTH PARWANI to be naturalized as Filipino citizen pursuant to Republic Act No. 9139. x - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - -- - - - - - - x

SCN CASE NO. 000968

PETITION Pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act No. 9139, petitioner hereby submits a petition for naturalization to become a citizen of the Republic of the Philippines and respectfully declares: 1. My full name is SIDDARTH PARWANI , but I have also been known since childhood as SID or I have been judicially authorized to use the alias name(s) N/A . 2. My present place of residence is 2 HOMONHON ST., MAGALLANES VILLAGE Municipality of MAKATI Province of METRO MANILA and all my former places of residence are (please indicate periods of residence) 15 ST. MARTIN STREET, MAGALLANES VILLAGE, MAKATI CITY

3. I was born on OCTOBER 8, 2003, in MAKATI CITY Philippines. I have been a resident of the Philippines since birth. At present, I am a citizen or subject of INDIA 4. My father's name is RAMESH PARWANI and he was born on SEPTEMBER 23, 1974 in LUKNOW, INDIA. He is a citizen or subject of INDIA. My mother's name is MANJU PARWANI and she was born on SEPTEMBER 2, 1978, in CASTRIES, SAINT LUCIA. She is a citizen or subject of SAINT LUCIA. 5. My trade, business, profession or lawful occupation is STUDENT and from which I derive an average annual income of N/A, inclusive of bonuses, commissions and allowances. My wife's/husband's trade, business, profession or lawful occupation is N/A and from which she derives an average annual income of N/A. (Where the above does not apply): I am exempt from the requirement of lucrative trade or occupation and from submitting income tax returns for the past three (3) years because I am a college degree holder [please state (1) degree obtained: BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PSYCHOLOGY (2) name of school: DE LA SALLE UNIVERSITY-MANILA and (3) years graduated: N/A ] who cannot practice my profession (the practice of which requires a government licensure examination) by reason of my citizenship. 6. My civil status is Single, I was married on N/A in N/A. My wife's/husband's name is N/A and she/he was born on in N/A in N/A She/he is a citizen or subject of N/A and presently resides N/A. 7. I am legally separated from my spouse; my marriage was annulled, per decree of legal separation/annulment dated N/A granted by N/A. (please indicate the particular court which granted the same). I am a widower/widow and my spouse died on N/A in N/A. 8. I have N/A child/children, whose names, dates and places of birth and residences are as follows: Name N/A

Date of Birth N/A

Place of Birth N/A

Residence N/A

9. I received my primary and secondary education from the following public schools or private educational institutions duly recognized by the Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS), where Philippine history, government and civics are taught and prescribed as part of the school curriculum and where enrollment is not limited to any race or nationality: Name of School CHILD LEARNING CENTER INC. COLEGIO SAN AGUSTIN DE LA SALLE UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS

Place of School MAKATI CITY MAKATI CITY MANILA MANILA

Dates of Study 2007-2009 2009-2019 2019-2025 2025-PRESENT

Highest Grade Completed KINDER 1 GRADE 10 BACHELOR DEGREE UNDERGOING DOCTORATE

10. I am able to read, write and speak Filipino and/or any of the following dialects of the Philippines: TAGALOG AND ENGLISH. 11. I have enrolled my minor children of school age in the following public schools or private educational institutions duly recognized by the Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS), where Philipine History, government and civics are taught and prescribed as part of the school curriculum and where enrollment is not limited to any race or nationality: Name of Child N/A

Name and Place of School N/A

Date of Enrollment N/A

12. I shall never be a public charge. I am of good moral character. I believe in the principles underlying the Philippine Constitution. I have conducted myself in a proper and irreproachable manner during the entire period of my residence in the Philippines in my relations with the constituted government as well as with the community in which I am living. I mingled socially with Filipinos and have evinced a sincere desire to learn and embrace the customs, traditions and ideals of the Filipino people. I have all the qualifications and none of the disqualifications under Republic Act No. 9139. I am not opposed to organized government or affiliated with any association or group of persons who uphold and teach doctrines opposing all organized governments. I am not defending or teaching the necessity or propriety of violence, personal assault or assassination for the success and predominance of one's ideas. I am not a polygamist nor a believer in the practice of polygamy. I have not been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude. I am not suffering from mental alienation or from any incurable contagious disease. The country of which I am a citizen or subject is not at war with the Philippines and grants to Filipinos the right to be naturalized citizens or subjects thereof. 13. It is my true and honest intention to become a citizen of the Philippines and to renounce absolutely and forever all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state or sovereignty, and, particularly, to INDIA of which at this time I am a citizen or subject. I will reside continuously in the Philippines from the date of the filing of this petition up to the time of my admission to Philippine citizenship. 14. My character witnesses are CYNTHIA FRANCESCA ESTANIEL and HAYEN RODA GRACE MARCELINO both Filipino citizens, of legal age, and residing at UNIT MUNTINLUPA CITY and PASAY CITY respectively, who have executed sworn statements attached hereto in support of my instant petition, together with: (a) brief biographical data about themselves; (b) detailed statements on the dates they first came to know me, the circumstances of our initial acquaintance and the reasons and extent of our continuing familiarity; and (c) the number of times they have acted as character witnesses in other petitions for naturalization. 15. Attached hereto as annexes and made part of this petition are the duplicate originals or certified photocopies of the following documents (please check the appropriate box):  Authenticated copy of Birth Certificate of petitioner [issued by PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority)]  Certified true copy of petitioner’s Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) or I-Card Certificate [issued by BI (Bureau of Immigration)];  Certified true copy of petitioner’s Native-Born Certificate of Residence (NBCR), if available (issued also by BI);  Authenticated copy of petitioner’s Marriage Certificate, if petitioner is married (issued by PSA);  Authenticated copy of Death Certificate of his/her spouse if petitioner is widowed, or of his/her parent’s if petitioner is a student or candidate for a government licensure exam;  Certified true copy of Court Decree Judgment annulling/nullifying of petitioner’s marriage or granting legal separation, if such was the fact;  Authenticated Birth Certificate/s of petitioner’s child/children (issued by PSA);

 Duty notarized Affidavit of Financial Capacity of the petitioner, or Affidavit of Support from the person financially supporting petitioner, if petitioner is either a student, a new graduate, spouse or war cities without income or a candidate for a government licensure exam, who has no own income. In addition, submit: (1)* Bank Certifications (two are required: [1] said bank certifications must indicate the present balance and [2] average daily balance for the past six months); (2)* Certificate of Employment if employed or Proof of Registration of Company if doing business (if doing business, please submit also the latest GIS (General Information Sheet) which was submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the financial statements of the company, which was submitted to the BIR/appropriate government agency]; (3)*Proof of Ownership of Real Property/ies such as condominium, etc.; and if owner of motor vehicle, proof of ownership of the same (4) Proof of Ownership of other property/ies, such as shares of stock, insurance, etc. Note: If petitioner is relying on support from another person, the said person must also submit the above-mentioned documents. Note: If petitioner is already a graduate but unemployed, submit a notarized affidavit of what petitioner is currently preoccupied with.  Latest Income Tax Returns (ITR) and Tax Documents (must show the receiving stamp of the BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue)] for the past three (3) years of the petitioner or of the person supporting him/her, with Proof of Payment of said taxes (such as official receipts, alphalist, etc.) Note: If petitioner is employed in a family-owned company, the company’s ITR and the company’s Proof of Payment of Taxes must also be submitted, aside from the submission of petitioner’s own ITR and tax documents and Proof of Payment of Taxes. Note: The company’s latest GIS (General Information Sheet), which was submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the financial statements of the company, which was submitted to the BIR/appropriate government agency, must also be submitted.  Duly notarized Affidavits of at least two (2) credible and disinterested witnesses who must be Filipino citizens (preferably natural-born citizens of the Philippines), of good repute in their community, and have no criminal record (Note: submit National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clearance of character witnesses; also submit a copy of the ID which the character witness used in the notarization of the affidavit) [Note: character witness must attest in the affidavit: (a) that he/she has known petitioner for at least 10 years or more (must also indicate how he/she got acquainted with the petitioner); (b) the good moral character of the petitioner (and how he/she mingles with Filipinos and the society); (c) that in his/her own opinion, petitioner has all the qualifications necessary to become a citizen of the Philippines and none of the disqualifications provided for by law);  Medical Certificate from a government hospital stating that petitioner is not suffering from mental alienation, or a user of prohibited drugs or otherwise a drug dependent, and that he/she is not afflicted with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or any incurable contagious disease [please attach the following to the certificate: (1) Neuro-Psychiatric Evaluation Report (from a duly licensed psychiatrist (who is a medical doctor), not a psychologist); (2) Laboratory Test Results for Drugs Test and HIV Teat, and, (3) other laboratory test’s (Note: all laboratory tests must also conducted from a government hospital)]; Note: Petitioners for naturalization are required to have their medical examination/diagnostic procedures conducted in a government hospital or facility, and not merely hospitals or facilities which are accredited by the government. The mere fact that the government hospital or facility is not near the residence or place of work of petitioner is not a valid reason for petitioner not to have said medical examination or diagnostic procedure conducted in a government hospital or facility. Note: It must be clear in the medical certificate and the diagnostic/laboratory test results that the subject of said medical examination or diagnostic/laboratory test is the petitioner.

LEVERAGING CSR PARTNERSHIPS. The Aboitiz Foundation trains more than 2,400 women

for digital jobs, energizes 84 last-mile schools, supports 1,200 scholars, and commits to restoring over 71,000 hectares of forest landscapes over 40 years. Working alongside government agencies, academia, communities, development organizations, and private sector partners, the foundation is expanding opportunities in education, livelihoods, and climate action to deliver long-term outcomes under the OneAboitiz Sustainability framework.

Marcos grants US firm Koloma hydrogen rights CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

By Alena Mae S. Flores

P

RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed service contract 92, granting U.S. firm Koloma Inc. exclusive rights to explore for naturally occurring hydrogen in western Zambales province. The move boosts government efforts to strengthen the country’s long-term energy security through the development of indigenous energy resources, especially in the wake of the ongoing Middle East crisis. This is the third natural hydrogen service contract granted to Koloma under the Department of Energy’s (DOE) indigenous energy exploration program. It builds on two service contracts awarded in October 2025 following the world’s first competitive bid round for natural hydrogen exploration. The three contracts cover more than 4,100 square kilometers across Central Luzon and western Zambales. The signing of SC 92 reinforces the Marcos administration’s commitment to diversifying the country’s

energy portfolio by exploring emerging indigenous energy resources that could help reduce dependence on imported fuels while supporting economic growth and long-term energy resilience. “Expanding our indigenous energy resources remains central to our pursuit of a secure, reliable, and sustainable energy future,” Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said. “The award of Service Contract No. 92 builds on ongoing exploration activities in Central Luzon and reflects our commitment to responsibly evaluating the country’s natural hydrogen potential,” Garin added. “Should commercially viable deposits be confirmed, natural hydrogen could become an important addition to the Philippines’ future energy mix, strengthening energy security, attracting investments, creating new economic opportunities, and providing a zero-emission fuel source for the power sector.” Natural hydrogen, sometimes referred to as geologic or white hydrogen, is an emerging energy resource generated naturally beneath the Earth’s surface. Unlike conventional hydrogen, it does not require industrial production, making it a potentially low-carbon and cost-competitive energy source if discovered in commercially recoverable quantities.

SCTEX drives biz expansion across Central Luzon

 Certified true copy with school seal of the Diploma and Transcript of Records of the petitioner from the school’s he or she attended to and/or graduated from in the Philippines (Elementary, High School and College) Note: If petitioner is still a student, please submit a Certification from the school where he/she is currently attending, stating his/her year level, that he/she is currently enrolled therein, and please attach proof of petitioner’s enrollment therein and submit a certification as to the amount of tuition fee and other required school fees paid (such as official receipt/s, certificate of matriculation, etc.) Note: if petitioner has no own income and is relying on another person for support, the person financially supporting petitioner must submit certifications as to the amount of tuition and other required school fees paid by said person for the education of his/her other dependents (example: the tuition and other required school fees of the children of the person financially supporting petitioner).  Certified true copy with school seal of the Diploma, Transcript of Records, or Certification (if applicable) from the school’s attended by, currently enrolled in, and/or graduated from by petitioner’s child children [the school’s must either be public schools or private educational institutions duly recognized by the DEPED (Department of Education), where Philippine history, government and civics are taught and prescribed as part of the school curriculum and where enrollment is not limited to any race or nationality); (Note: please submit a Certification from the school where said child/children is/ are currently attending, stating his/her year level, that he/she is currently enrolled therein, and please attach proof of said child/children’s enrollment therein and submit a certification as to the amount of tuition fee and other required school fees paid (such as official receipt’s, certificate of matriculation, etc.) for said child children’s enrollment in said school.  Clearances NBI Clearance; Barangay Clearance of the barangay where petitioner is currently residing (It should be a barangay clearance, not a residence certification); Police Clearance from the Police Station Police Office having jurisdiction of the place where petitioner is currently residing: RTC Clearance (Regional Trial Court), from the RTC which has jurisdiction over the place where petitioner is currently residing; MeTC/MTCC/MTC/ MCTC Clearance (Metropolitan Trial Court/Municipal Trial Court in Cities/ Municipal Trial Court/Municipal Circuit Trial Court, as the case may be) from the MeTC/MTCC/MTC/MCTC which has jurisdiction over the place where petitioner is currently residing); and Office of the Prosecutor Clearance, from the Office of the Prosecutor of the place where petitioner is currently residing. Note: All clearances must be current and must not be expired. 16. Other documents submitted by the petitioner in support of his/her petition: N/A_____________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ PRAYER WHEREFORE, it is respectfully prayed that petitioner be conferred Philippine citizenship pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act No, 9139. Dated at Parañaque City, Metro Manila, this 30th day of March, 2026.

SIDDARTH PARWANI Name and Signature of Petitioner Telephone Number: 09054675635 Email Address: sid.parwani@gmail.com

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES) CITY/MUNICIPALITY OF CITY OF MAKATI S.S. I, SIDDARTH PARWANI of legal age and a resident of 2 HOMONHON ST., MAGALLANES VILLAGE, MAKATI CITY after being duly sworn, depose and say that I am the petitioner herein, that I have read the foregoing petition and know the foregoing petition and known the contents thereof, and that the same is true of my own knowledge.

SIDDARTH PARWANI Name and Signature of Petitioner SUBCRIBED AND SWORN to before me at CITY OF MAKATI this 03rd day of NOVEMBER 2025.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

CSR PARTNERSHIPS. From left, Department of Public Works and Highways undersecretary Charles Calima, Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Presidential Adviser for Sustainable and Resilient Communities, Ryan Yuen, PUB, Consultants Pte. Ltd. managing Director, April Yang, CEO of Flexi Systems and FloodX and Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes, Office of Civil Defense (OCD) ambassador attend the 2026 Stormwater Summit. The event gathered policymakers, government officials, business leaders, and civic advocates to redefine the national approach to flood mitigation and climate adaptation.

Jin Navitas supplies renewable power to Ateneo de Naga, Uratex JIN Navitas Electric Corp. (JNEC) is now supplying 100 percent renewable energy to Ateneo de Naga University (AdNU) and Uratex under the Energy Regulatory Commission’s Retail Aggregation Program (RAP). The program allows smaller electricity customers whose individual demand falls below the eligibility threshold to pool their load and access the competitive retail market. Jacinto Ng Jr., executive officer of the Joy-Nostalg Group, emphasized that providing affordable electricity allows JNEC’s impact to extend beyond its direct customers. By helping reduce power costs, JNEC supports efforts to make education, household products, and other essential goods and services more affordable for ordinary Filipinos. Through RAP, Uratex consolidated the power requirements of its 23 showrooms across Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, and Laguna, selecting JNEC as its retail electricity supplier. AdNU’s agreement with JNEC marks the first RAP implementation in the Bicol Region and within the franchise area of Camarines Sur II Electric Cooperative Inc. As their supplier, JNEC provides Uratex and AdNU with access to renewable energy while both continue to receive electricity through their existing distribution networks. JNEC sources clean power from the growing portfolio of its affiliated company, Jin Navitas Solaris Inc. (Solaris). This includes NING*NING, a redemptive energy initiative featuring rooftop solar energy projects installed on socialized housing developments. Alena Mae S. Flores

NLEX Corp. said Friday that it remains committed to providing infrastructure that enhances mobility and supports regional economic growth, citing the continued impact of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) in driving business expansion across Central Luzon. Luis Reñon, NLEX president, said the company’s long-term goal has been to provide safe and reliable transport infrastructure that unlocks the economic potential of Northern and Central Luzon. “For years, our goal has been to showcase the beauty and potential of Northern and Central Luzon by providing safe and reliable road access,” Reñon said. “We’re pleased to see that this long-standing commitment has contributed to business expansion and the overall economic growth of Central Luzon.” As Central Luzon continues to emerge as one of the country’s key economic hubs, SCTEX remains a vital transport corridor supporting tourism, trade, and investments that contribute to the region’s sustained growth. The 94-kilometer SCTEX, which serves more than 80,000 vehicles daily, has become a key transport link connecting Subic, Clark, and Tarlac. The expressway has enabled businesses to expand operations, reach new markets, and improve the movement of goods and people across Northern and Central Luzon. During a recent visit to NLEX’s head office, members of the Pampanga Business Circle — a nonpartisan fellowship of business and sectoral leaders — shared how the expressway has transformed their businesses and strengthened the regional economy.

BUSINESS

B4

SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

PAL buying 34 widebody aircraft PNB’s net profit climbed 17% to P14.6b in first half P By Darwin G. Amojelar

By Jenniffer B. Austria PHILIPPINE National Bank (PNB) reported a 17-percent increase in net income to P14.6 billion in the first half of 2026 from P12.5 billion a year ago on the back of loan growth and higher net interest and fee-based income. The bank’s return on equity improved to 12.1 percent from 11.4 percent a year ago, PNB said Friday in a disclosure to the stock exchange. Operating revenue increased by P3.3 billion, with net interest income rising 7 percent as interest income from loans grew 12 percent and the cost of deposits fell 24 percent. Fee-based income also increased 17 percent, mainly due to higher bancassurance revenue. PNB’s gross nonperforming loan ratio improved to 4.2 percent as of end-June from 5.5 percent a year earlier, allowing the bank to reduce credit costs as asset quality improved. Total assets grew 4.4 percent year-on-year to P1.35 trillion from P1.29 trillion, supported by the expansion of its loan portfolio. Loans increased 10 percent to P764 billion from P696 billion a year earlier, as the bank made greater use of its deposit base. Corporate and commercial loans grew 11 percent, while consumer loans rose 21 percent. “About 90 percent of consumer loan expansion during the first half of the year was in the secured lending area, particularly housing loans. We are not seeing any deterioration in the portfolio’s credit quality despite the current market environment,” PNB chief financial officer Francis Albalate said. PNB president and chief executive Edwin Bautista said the bank remained resilient amid market volatility, supported by its capital position and risk management. “We delivered improved profitability, increased our loans and significantly reduced our NPL ratio – demonstrating the quality of our balance sheet and disciplined execution,” Bautista said.

HILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) unveiled a series of aircraft, engine and maintenance agreements to acquire up to 34 newgeneration widebody aircraft over the next decade, as the Lucio Tanled carrier moves to compete more aggressively in key international markets.

The fleet expansion and modernization program will reinforce PAL’s long-term strategy to expand its global network and improve operational efficiency, the airline said. PAL earlier announced it will order 15

Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, with options for five additional aircraft, and nine Airbus A350-1000s, also with options for five more. Deliveries are scheduled from 2031 to 2036, ensuring a steady renewal and expansion of PAL’s long-haul fleet. To power the new aircraft, PAL selected GE Aerospace’s GEnx-1B engines for the Boeing 787-10 fleet and Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines for the Airbus A3501000 aircraft. The Trent XWB-97 engines will be supported by a long-term TotalCare agreement covering engine maintenance and health management. “These widebody aircraft and engine investments will enable Philippine Airlines to expand its reach, compete more effectively in key international markets and serve better the evolving needs of travelers,” PAL Holdings Inc.

president and chief executive Lucio Tan III said. “They will allow us to play an even greater role as the Philippine flag carrier in connecting people, businesses and communities across continents while supporting tourism, trade and national development,” he said. “The aircraft and engine commitments announced at Farnborough reflect our focus on building a fleet that is both versatile and futureready,” PAL president Richard Nuttall said. “The combination of the Boeing 787-10, Airbus A350-1000 aircraft and their respective GEnx-1B and Trent XWB-97 engines brings the right balance of efficiency, reliability and flexibility to support our network,” he said. The latest investments form part of PAL’s broader transformation strategy as it seeks to strengthen its presence in long-haul international markets amid growing global travel demand.

SEAWEED FACILITY.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. visits the the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)-National Seaweed Technology Development Center (NSTDC)) Seaweed Reactor-Integrated Innovation for Scalable Expansion (SeaweedRISE) project in Barangay CabidAn, Sorsogon City on July 20, 2026. The facility is the first of its kind for seaweeds in the country and Asia.

PLDT backs new gov’t data residency order, cites infrastructure readiness PLDT Inc. said Friday it is ready to support the government’s growing demand for secure data hosting and digital infrastructure after the issuance of Executive Order No. 119, which establishes a data residency framework to protect sensitive government information and advance the country’s digital transformation. PLDT chairman and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan welcomed the order, saying the company has long invested in the infrastructure and expertise needed to help the government

carry out its digital agenda. “We’re eager to help turn the President’s vision into reality, We have been preparing for this future for years. We built the infrastructure ahead of time, and our people have the expertise and capabilities to help the government secure our data and accelerate our digital transformation,” he said. Through its expanding network of data centers and digital infrastructure, PLDT said it is positioned to enable a secure, future-ready digital ecosystem for government agencies, busi-

nesses and citizens, and to support the government’s data residency goals. Victor Genuino, president and chief executive of ePLDT Inc. and president of VITRO REIT Inc., said the order aligns the government’s data governance framework with the demands of the digital economy. “This landmark policy brings our government’s data governance framework in alignment with the demands of the digital economy, which includes a nation’s ability to secure, govern and control its own data. EO

IN BRIEF SEC fines online lender for excessive interest THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said Friday it fined Inclusive Credit Lending Inc. P1.03 million for charging excessive interest rates and using unfair debt collection practices through its online lending platform Pinoy Peso. The SEC said in a statement its Financing and Lending Companies Department found Inclusive Credit Lending administratively liable in an order dated July 21 for violating SEC Memorandum Circular No. 3, which sets limits on interest rates, fees and other charges imposed by lending and financing companies operating online lending platforms. The department also found the company violated SEC Memorandum Circular No. 18, Series of 2019, which prohibits unfair debt collection practices, the SEC said. A borrower filed the complaint that triggered the case, alleging Inclusive Credit Lending, through Pinoy Peso, deducted 38 percent of the principal amount from every loan transaction. She also said she was threatened, harassed and publicly shamed during the debt collection process. The department found the 38-percent upfront charge shown on the Pinoy Peso platform translated to an effective interest rate of 61.29 percent for a seven-day loan, equivalent to 262.67 percent per month or 8.67 percent per day. That rate exceeded the prescribed monthly effective interest rate ceiling of 15 percent, or about 0.5 percent per day, under SEC Memorandum Circular No. 3. Jenniffer B. Austria

DBP, PHIVOLCS team up to boost climate lending STATE-OWNED Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) has signed an agreement with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) to integrate hazard information into the bank’s risk management, policies and processes and optimize its lending and investment operations, a top official said. DBP president and chief executive Michael de Jesus said the agreement with PHIVOLCS, the premier service institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), would allow the bank to access and harness the agency’s hazard information platform, GeoRiskPH, to ensure evidence-based credit evaluations and enable data-driven business decisions.

PhilWeb gets rights to locally distribute Games Global content

“We view this partnership with PHIVOLCS as a tangible manifestation of how government agencies can strengthen their collaboration and leverage shared expertise in advancing a safer, more resilient and sustainable Philippines,” de Jesus said. DBP is the ninth largest bank in the country with total assets of P1.041 trillion and provides credit support to four priority sectors of the economy: infrastructure and logistics; micro, small and medium enterprises; the environment; and social services and community development. PHIVOLCS leads GeoRiskPH, a sciencebased platform that serves as a centralized government initiative designed to provide real-time data and risk analysis to support geohazard mapping and vulnerability assessments, helping strengthen disaster preparedness across the country.

GCash’s GBonds offers bond yields of up to 7% GCASH is giving Filipinos direct access to government bond investments through its app, with yields in the secondary market reaching as high as 7 percent¹ as savers look for ways to outpace inflation. The feature, called GBonds, is powered by Philippine Digital Asset Exchange Inc. and Bonds.ph. It allows users to buy Retail Treasury Bonds and Treasury Bills directly from their smartphones, removing the paperwork and bank or brokerage visits that have traditionally been required to invest in government securities. Government bonds carry zero default risk and offer regular, predictable returns, making them among the safest investment instruments available. Rising yields in the secondary market have drawn increased interest from Filipinos seeking to preserve and grow their savings amid persistent inflation and market volatility. “More Filipinos today are looking for ways to protect and grow their hard-earned money. Through GBonds, we’re making government securities more accessible, helping more Filipinos to participate in investment opportunities that were traditionally harder to access,” Mynt group head of new businesses Winsley Bangit said. Mynt is the parent company of GCash. GBonds also allows users to purchase retail treasury bonds and treasury nills in the secondary market, giving investors year-round access to government securities even after official offering periods have closed.

119 is a key step to ensure both our national security and economic competitiveness,” Genuino said. “We already host the critical data of the country’s data-driven government agencies, enterprises, and cloud and AI workloads. And with the launch of VITRO Santa Rosa, the country’s first and only AI-ready data center, we can confidently say we are ready today — not just with capacity, but with the cloud and AI capabilities the public sector requires,” he said. Darwin G. Amojelar

CLOUD BANKING. Nextbank, a digital banking platform for growing financial institutions, teams up with Sorosoro Ibaba Development Cooperative (SIDC), the Philippines’ largest agricultural cooperative, to modernize its financial operations through Nextbank’s cloud-based Core Banking System (CBS). The partnership marks a significant milestone in SIDC’s long-term digital transformation journey, with plans to adopt additional Nextbank solutions over time to further strengthen its financial services and enhance member experience.

BSP urges banks to strengthen cybersecurity as AI risks emerge By Thony Rose Lesaca THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on Friday urged banks and other regulated entities to strengthen cybersecurity measures against emerging risks linked to artificial intelligence. Under Memorandum No. M-2026034, the BSP encouraged supervised institutions to maintain an updated digital assets and systems inventory, strengthen security controls and proactively address system vulnerabilities. The BSP also recommended the use of AI-powered cybersecurity tools to detect threats, monitor systems and respond to attacks more quickly. It also called on financial institu-

tions to strengthen their incident response and business continuity plans to ensure uninterrupted services in the event of cyber incidents. “Cybersecurity is essential to maintaining trust in the financial system. By encouraging financial institutions to strengthen their cyber defenses and preparedness, we help protect consumers, safeguard financial services, and support confidence in an increasingly digital economy,” BSP Deputy Governor Lyn Javier said in a statement. The BSP said the guidance complements its existing cybersecurity and AI governance frameworks, as well as reinforces sound risk management practices and the responsible use of AI.

PHILWEB Corp. said Friday it secured exclusive rights to distribute Games Global’s digital gaming content in the Philippines, expanding its technology-enabled gaming services and opening another potential recurring revenue stream from licensed operators. The listed company said in a statement that the agreement makes it the exclusive domestic partner of Games Global, giving it access to more than 3,000 digital gaming titles developed by over 40 independent international studios. The rollout is expected to be fully operational within the third quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals, it said. PhilWeb said the agreement would allow it to expand its business relationships with licensed gaming operators seeking to offer more online gaming content. “This agreement represents an important milestone in PhilWeb’s long-term strategy of expanding its technology-enabled gaming services business,” PhilWeb said. “By securing this exclusive arrangement to deploy Games Global’s unparalleled content library, we are positioned to broaden our commercial relationships with licensed operators while creating a scalable and recurring revenue stream through technology-enabled services,” it said. Games Global supplies digital gaming content to more than 900 operators across over 20 regulated markets worldwide. Jenniffer B. Austria

JOYCE PANGCO PAÑARES, Issue Editor / email: joyce.panares@gmail.com

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From farm to cup

Bringing coffee growers closer to local cafés By Angelica Villanueva

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EHIND every latte, pourover or cappuccino is a farmer whose work often goes unnoticed. As interest in Philippine specialty coffee grows, closer links between local growers and cafés have become one of the industry’s priorities. Connecting farmers with cafés, however, takes more than adding a province or farm name to the menu. The Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries’ Philippine Coffee Industry Roadmap lists partnerships between local coffee farmers and coffee shops among its medium-term targets. The roadmap describes most coffee farms in the country as smallholdings of one to two hectares. It also identifies limited market access, uneven quality and weak coordination among industry players as continuing concerns. Most growers rely on processors, traders, cooperatives and roasters to bring their harvest to market. Each may handle a separate stage, including drying, sorting, roasting or distribution. Farmers can be placed at a disadvantage when they know little about where their coffee ends up, how buyers assess quality or what affects the price they receive. Local cafés can help narrow the gap by working with cooperatives, roasters and producers

As part of The Astoria Group’s corporate social responsibility, Astoria Culinary Expert Services (Astoria-ACES) supports the local agriculture sector by purchasing crops from indigenous farmers at a fair price, ensuring that the financial benefit to them is equitable. Astoria Philippine Ube Facebook page

AI-generated infographic on Philippine coffee production data based on Department of Agriculture statistics

File photo shows a coffee grower in Murcia, Negros Occidental.

who can trace beans to their origin. Regular communication also gives growers a clearer understanding of the quality, processing methods and flavor profiles sought by coffee shops. The roadmap notes that farmers continue to face problems involving post-harvest facilities, market information and access to buyers. It calls for stronger links among growers, processors, traders, roasters and cafés to improve quality and traceability across the supply chain. Longer purchasing arrangements may give growers a more dependable market while helping cafés plan their bean supply. Shops can also introduce customers to the people behind each cup by naming the farming community, coffee variety and processing method instead of using “local” as a broad marketing label. A similar approach can be seen in other agricultural industries. During THAIFEX-Anuga Asia 2026, Chef Nick An-

derson of Astoria Hospitality said the company began sourcing ube from an Aeta community in Zambales after learning that the farmers received little benefit from their previous trading arrangement. “Middlemen buy and sell, while we are trying to present the story of Astoria, the farmers and Filipino ube,” Anderson said. He said Astoria uses the crop in its products while supporting the community through education, sanitation and health programs. The company also processes ube into powder, extending the life of a seasonal harvest and making it available throughout the year. Coffee has different production requirements, but Astoria’s experience offers an example of a business treating farmers as partners rather than anonymous suppliers. Producers gain access to a buyer and practical support, while the business receives a traceable product with a clear origin. Anderson said Astoria also sources from other farms because the Zambales community cannot meet all its requirements. Commercial demand may require a wider network of producers, especially when one community has limited land, labor or harvest volume. Turn to C2

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By Jasper Valdez

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MEAL ordered through a phone can arrive in less than an hour, but its journey leaves more than an empty container behind. A rider travels through traffic, disposable utensils may go unused, and layers of packaging are often thrown away once the food reaches the table.

Sustainable food delivery:

How apps are leveling up with eco-friendly practices

As delivery becomes part of everyday dining in the Philippines, several platforms are finding different ways to address the waste and emissions that come with convenience. Here are four food delivery apps changing what happens before, during and after an order reaches the door.

2. foodpanda puts greener vehicles on the road

Bicycle deliveries became part of foodpanda’s Metro Manila operations in 2018, offering a lower-emission alternative to motorcycles. The platform later widened its delivery fleet to include more bicycle riders, walkers and users of e-bikes and e-scooters, allowing orders to be handled through transport options suited to shorter distances and densely populated areas. That same year, foodpanda introduced its cutlery preference feature, allowing customers to refuse disposable utensils they do not need. Across its Asian markets, the company reported that its cutlery setting helped avoid about 900 million pieces of single-use plastic in 2021.

3. PICK.A.ROO gives shoppers more sustainable choices

1. GrabFood lets each order help fund conservation

GrabFood introduced its Green Program in the Philippines in February 2025, giving customers the option to add P1 to every GrabFood or GrabMart transaction. The contributions help finance conservation work, including a mangrove-planting project launched in Dulao Village, La Union, in April 2025. Grab said the initiative aims to plant at least 3,000 mangrove seedlings while supporting the livelihood of local residents involved in the project. The contribution is optional and may be switched on or off through the app.

PICK.A.ROO outlined its approach to more environmentally conscious shopping in 2023, highlighting local sourcing, organic goods and products from Filipino farmers, retailers and small businesses. The platform also encourages customers to consider goods with lower water footprints. By working with nearby suppliers, the company says it can shorten the distance products travel while supporting local economies. To encourage more shoppers to choose reusable packaging, PICK.A.ROO has periodically included eco-bags in its promotional campaigns.

Nutritionist Jo Sebastian Unpacks the Art of Mindful Snacking

• From Portioning to Finding Your Right Bite! • Reading Informative Labels and Understanding your 'Why' Matter

EVER found yourself reaching for piece of your snack, not because you’re hungry, but simply because the bag is open and your favorite show is on? Or perhaps you’ve finished an entire pack of biscuits while scrolling through your feed, only to be hit by a wave of guilt afterward? If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And according to renowned nutritionist Jo Sebastian, the problem isn’t the snack itself—it’s how we approach it. In her latest social media series, #SnackNaSwak, launched on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, social media nutrition guide Jo Sebastian dives deep into what she playfully calls the “snackaholic” dilemma. But before you panic, she clarifies: being a “snack-aholic” isn’t about addiction, but rather the common habit of mindless snacking—eating on autopilot without truly being aware of what, why, or how much we’re consuming. Are You a “Snack-aholic” Without Realizing It? Jo’s pilot episode kicks off by challenging viewers to reflect on their own snacking patterns. Think about it: • Do you snack while working, studying, or engaging in other activities? • Do you often find yourself finishing a package of treats without even realizing you’ve gone through the whole thing? • Do you experience guilt or regret after your snacking sessions? These are all tell-tale signs of mindless eating, a behavior Jo recognizes as particularly prevalent in Filipino culture, where snacking often intertwines with emotional comfort and social gatherings. From sharing ‘merienda’ with family to munching on cookies during a movie night with friends, snacks are deeply ingrained in our routines. However, when these moments become automatic, we lose the intention behind our eating, often leading to overconsumption. The Power of Mindful Snacking: What’s In It For You? This is where the transformative concept of mindful snacking comes into play. Jo Sebastian advocates for a shift from unconscious eating to intentional enjoyment. So, what exactly does this mean, and how can it benefit you? 1. Reclaim Your Pleasure: Mindful snacking allows you to truly savor your food. By paying attention to the flavors,

textures, and aromas, you enhance the enjoyment of each bite, making your snacking experience more satisfying and less about simply “filling a void.” 2. Master Portion Control Naturally: When you’re mindful, you become more attuned to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. This internal awareness naturally guides you toward better portion control, helping prevent you from overeating. You learn to stop when you’re satisfied, not just when the bag is empty. This can lead to better weight management and a healthier diet overall. 3. Banish the Guilt: Mindful snacking breaks the cycle of regret. When you choose to snack with intention, without distractions, and in response to actual hunger, you empower yourself to make conscious choices, leading to a more positive relationship with food. Unlock Your Snack Secrets: Why “Read The Label!” Matters for Informed Choices Building on the foundation of mindful eating, Jo Sebastian’s #SnackNaSwak posts also shine a spotlight on another crucial aspect: understanding what’s inside your favorite treats. A quick question—when was the last time you actually read the nutrition label on your snack? For many of us, the answer might be “never” or “I don’t even know what to look for.” But here’s the good news, according to Jo: that information at the back? It’s there to empower you. Reading food labels isn’t

about restriction; it’s about information. It’s about gaining a clearer picture of what you’re consuming so you can make informed decisions that support your wellbeing, without necessarily giving up your favorite treats. Why should you make reading snack labels a habit? • Empowerment Through Knowledge: The nutrition label is a powerful tool. It provides factual data about your food, allowing you to move from guessing to knowing. This knowledge empowers you to align your snacking choices with your personal health goals and dietary preferences. • Understanding Portion Control: Labels clearly state serving sizes. This is a game-changer for portion control. Instead of guessing or mindlessly eating from a large package, the label tells you exactly how much constitutes a single serving. This makes it easier to enjoy your snack in moderation, preventing overconsumption and contributing to better weight management. This simple habit of flipping the package and scanning the label transforms your relationship with snacks. It shifts the focus from mindless consumption to thoughtful enjoyment, reinforcing that knowledge is the key to balanced and confident eating. Starting Your #SnackNaSwak Journey: A Holistic Approach The #SnackNaSwak series isn’t just about identifying problems; it’s about providing solutions and guiding you towards healthier habits. Jo Sebastian’s goal is to help you enjoy snacks with intention, making every snack na swak – a snack that fits perfectly into a balanced lifestyle, both physically and emotionally. Mindful snacking, combined with informed choices from reading labels, the wisdom of proper portion control, and the understanding of your personal “right bite,” isn’t about restriction; it’s about liberation –from unconscious habits, and towards a more fulfilling and healthier relationship with food. For more information on Mindful Snacking, visit Mindful Snacking | Finding Mindful Moments in Every Snack. Follow Jo Sebastian on Instagram (@itsjosebastian), Facebook (Jo Sebastian, RND) and Tiktok (@ itsjosebastian).

4. ordermo keeps sourcing and packaging closer to home

Homegrown platform ordermo serves more than 50 towns and cities across Zambales, Bataan, Bulacan and Pampanga. Its regional network connects customers with nearby restaurants and retailers, supporting local businesses while reducing reliance on longer supply routes and lessening carbon footprint. The platform also promotes sustainable packaging to help lessen the containers, bags and utensils left behind after each delivery. For diners, the more sustainable option may now be only a tap away—whether at checkout, in the shopping cart or at the door, turning an ordinary order into a chance to support better practices.

From farm... From C1 Coffee shops and roasters can face the same concern. A single farm or cooperative may not always produce enough beans to supply a business throughout the year. Working with several farming communities can provide a steadier supply while opening the market to more growers. Not every intermediary needs to be removed. Many farms depend on millers, processors, cooperatives and roasters because they lack the equipment needed to prepare beans for commercial use. The roadmap recognizes processors, consolidators, traders, roasters and coffee shops as part of the industry’s value chain. Clearer transactions matter more than eliminating every stage. Farmers should understand how their coffee is evaluated and priced, while cafés should know where the beans come from, who produced them and what work went into preparing each batch. Anderson said agricultural partnerships must begin with understanding how producers live and work. “You need to understand how the community lives before you can work with them. You level with them first, then help them understand how they can have a better quality of life. They are very hardworking people,” he told Manila Standard Cravings. For Philippine coffee, bringing farms and cafés closer together means giving growers a visible place in the industry. Their names, communities and work should remain part of the story long after the beans leave the farm and reach the cup.

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Solaire initiative cultivates QC community through urban agriculture

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OLAIRE Resort Quezon City is cooking up a collaboration with Quezon City University (QCU) to uplift the local community, with urban farmers at the forefront. For the main course, Solaire hopes to eventually feature produce from these urban farmers as key ingredients in a signature dish at Manyaman, its flagship Kapampangan fine-dining restaurant. Manyaman’s Chef de Cuisine Jeffrey Fong picks fresh produce harvested from the Quezon City University’s Center for Urban Agriculture and Innovation

Solaire Resort Quezon City Vice President for Culinary Chef Hylton Le Roux and Manyaman’s Chef de Cuisine Jeffrey Fong prepare to conduct the live cooking demonstration using fresh produce from the Quezon City University’s Center for Urban Agriculture and Innovation

This proposal seeks to highlight the quality of locally sourced ingredients while creating meaningful opportunities for the community. In support of the Solaire Hospitality Academy, which was established to provide a dedicated hospitality training program for the local community, participants from both parties celebrated urban agriculture, Filipino cuisine, and hospitality education during a visit to QCU. This included a tour of the university’s Center for Urban Agriculture and Innovation, where guests learned about the university’s urban farming initiatives and the role they play in promoting food sustainability within the city. Manyaman chef de cuisine Jeffrey Fong and sous chef Arnel Velasquez then led a live cooking demonstration, where they transformed freshly harvested produce from the Quezon City urban farmers into traditional Filipino dishes. Participants enjoyed the

communal meal before them to honor the richness of locally grown ingredients and the shared value of supporting homegrown communities. Led by Solaire Resort Quezon City chief operating officer Damian Quayle and QCU President Dr. Theresita Atienza, together with executives from both institutions, the visit reinforced their growing partnership through the continued development of the Solaire Hospitality Academy. The said academy’s future training facilities are being prepared as dedicated learning spaces designed to foster hands-on learning, critical thinking, and industry-ready hospitality training. Launched in April 2026 through a partnership between Solaire Resort Quezon City and the Quezon City Government, the Solaire Hospitality Academy is set to welcome its first batch of students soon. Its curriculum is focused on food and beverage service, culinary arts, housekeeping, and guest services, preparing students to meet the operational standards of a world-class integrated resort while expanding employment opportunities for Quezon City residents.

Grab Philippines’ demand-boost push drives growth for homegrown MSMEs GRAB Philippines fully funded a one-month demand-boost campaign for select homegrown food merchants, helping local restaurants drive transactions without taking on the cost of consumer discounts as inflation kept utility bills and ingredient costs elevated. Rolled out from May 21 to June 20, the initiative helped local restaurants sustain customer demand at a time when inflation continued to put pressure on their businesses. The campaign delivered a measurable lift: two in three participating merchants recorded higher orders during the period, with most seeing doubledigit growth. Among merchants that grew, order volumes rose by about 30 percent on average, while the fastest-growing merchantpartners posted gains of 145 percent to 158 percent. “It’s easy to be a partner when times are good,” said Grab Philippines Chief Commercial Officer EJ dela Vega. “But with utility and ingredient costs spiking, the daily math just wasn’t making sense for our local merchants. They didn’t need business advice; they needed actual orders and protected margins. By shouldering the cost of demand-boosting initiatives and providing a concentrated lifeline for those hit hardest, our goal was simple: help them keep their doors open.” For independent operators, the support provided a muchneeded buffer. “The rising price of ingredients, especially meat, makes it costly to join discount promos all the time,” said Joy Couture, owner of Harley ’s Boulevard Motor Cafe in Davao. “Having Grab absorb the cost of this promo was a big help. It boosted our brand’s visibility on the app and helped improve our sales over the past month.”

Grab Philippines continues to support MSME merchant-partners through the Grab Asenso: Digital Diskarte Program, with capacity-building sessions on AI 101 for MSMEs, digital marketing, and financial management.

To further ease cash flow pressures amid the national energy crisis, Grab also offered debt relief options to severely affected merchant-partners, including alternative payment arrangements and a loan holiday to eligible borrowers with existing cash loans. Beyond immediate relief, Grab also continues to support long-

term MSME resilience through Grab Asenso: Digital Diskarte Program, a public-private partnership with local government units that helps local enterprises build practical digital capabilities — from AI 101 for MSMEs to social media strategy and digital marketing. To support offline, dine-in operations, the company also offers Grab In-Store

Solutions+. The suite, which comprises Grab Dine Out Deals and Grab Payment Solutions, allows merchants to digitize checkouts and manage targeted promotions for foot traffic. While this specific initiative has concluded, the effort builds on Grab’s history of stepping up during economic shocks. It mirrors the rapid-response framework of the

P350-million Bayanihan Fund that supported drivers during previous extreme fuel spikes. As the energy situation evolves, Grab is closely monitoring the impact across its broader network of merchants, drivers, and consumers, remaining focused on deploying targeted support to safeguard their livelihoods and everyday operations.

CRA INGS JOYCE PANGCO PAÑARES, Issue Editor

Trace the Good Food

SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026 jpanares@manilastandard.net

Home to an exceptional mix of celebrated restaurants and rising culinary concepts, The Shoppes at McKinley West offers a thoughtfully curated collection of flavors from around the world.

There’s a new dining destination in Fort Bonifacio From celebrated restaurants, global flavors, to artisanal coffee and craft cocktails, here are some must-try spots at The Shoppes at McKinley West that's becoming the talk of the town By Kristie Colmenar

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HERE’S a new dining destination worth crossing town for, and all the exciting stops lead to Taguig City’s new emerging lifestyle district. The Shoppes at McKinley West, the latest development from Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, is fast becoming the go-to destination for diners seeking bold flavors, easy weekday lunches, and the kind of finds you would want to tell your friends about. Whether it’s a quick lunch between meetings, a weekend brunch, an intimate omakase dinner, or cocktails that stretch late into the evening, it has swiftly emerged as one of Metro Manila’s most exciting dining addresses — and these six spots are a great place to start. Filipino comfort, elevated Some meals simply feel like home. Together, George and Onnie’s and Abè prove that Filipino food, whether reimagined or kept close to tradition, always feels like home. George and Onnie’s reimagines Filipino comfort food with refined flavors and thoughtful presentation. Dig into crowd favorites, such as the Kurobuta Sinigang, Pinoy Ribs, and Lolo’s Fried Chicken that deliver familiar flavors with a contemporary touch, while indulgent desserts like the Bibingka Cheesecake, Ube Brûlée Cake, and Calamansi Cream Pie offer the perfect sweet ending — the perfect way to close out the meal or just pop in for an afternoon break. For a more traditional take, Abè brings time-honored Filipino and Kapampangan cooking to the table. Signature dishes like the Binukadkad na Pla-Pla and the Bamboo Rice, showcase heritage recipes and techniques that have stood the test of time. An encounter with one of Manila’s finest Japanese experiences Long regarded as one of Manila’s premier Japanese dining destinations, Ogawa Traditional Japanese Restaurant brings its celebrated omakase-style experience to The Shoppes at McKinley West.

Known for its rich curries and fresh-offthe-tandoor classics, Royal India Curry House delivers bold, authentic Indian flavor in every dish they serve.

Both George and Onnie’s and Abè serve hearty classics that satisfy both nostalgia and modern tastes.

A longtime favorite among Filipino foodies, Abè brings its classic Kapampangan favorites and heritage flavors, serving traditional dishes made with care at every table.

Diners will enjoy Café 17’s relaxed, easygoing atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely brunch and good conversation.

King Chef has become a favorite for authentic Chinese cuisine, serving its legendary Peking Duck alongside a wide selection of handcrafted dimsum and beloved Cantonese specialties.

Every seat at Ogawa Traditional Japanese Restaurant offers a front-row view of culinary mastery, pairing an immersive robatayaki experience with premium ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship in every dish.

From lattes to desserts, The Matcha Tokyo brings its extensive matcha lineup to The Shoppes at McKinley West, an alternative to your usual coffee run.

Pull up a seat at the live robatayaki grill and watch the chefs work their magic before digging into signature favorites, like the Dragon Roll and Maguro Temaki. Feeling adventurous? Go for the Ayu Shioyaki, a delicately grilled Japanese sweetfish that’s only around for the season. Or treat yourself to the good stuff — think Bluefin Toro Slab and a wagyu lineup that reads like a tour around Japan, from Kobe and Matsusaka to Ohmi, Kagoshima, and Miyazaki. Make every meal a celebration Few restaurants bring people together quite like King Chef. Renowned for its generous portions and authentic Chinese cuisine, the restaurant’s signature Peking Duck, handcrafted dimsum, and classic Cantonese favorites trans-

form ordinary meals into memorable celebrations best shared with family and friends. It’s the kind of spread that turns any gathering into a proper feast — the more people at the table, the better. Journey through India’s bold flavors Rich spices, slow-cooked curries, and centuries-old recipes define every meal at Royal India Curry House. From its velvety Butter Chicken to smoky Tandoori Lamb Chops, and fragrant biryanis, every dish delivers the depth, warmth, and authenticity that have made Indian cuisine one of the world’s most beloved culinary traditions. Coffee or Matcha? Take your pick Can’t decide between a caffeine fix or a ceremonial-grade matcha? The Shoppes at McKinley West has you covered either way. Café 17 is your go-to for a leisurely brunch — the kind of place where a coffee and a good conversation can

easily turn into a couple of hours. Just next door, The Matcha Tokyo serves premium Japanese matcha in everything from handcrafted lattes to decadent desserts—making it a favorite stop for both coffee lovers and matcha enthusiasts alike. Where evenings come alive For those slow, soul-recharging evenings, Nightshade hits the spot. With its intimate interiors, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails,, this cocktail lounge is perfect for winding down with a well-crafted drink, whether you’re in the mood for something bold and smoky like the Oaxaca Old Fashioned, or smooth and rounded like the HouseAmaretto Sour. It’s the kind of place where a quick drink easily turns into an evening filled with conversation, music, and good company.. Whether it’s a first date or a spontaneous catch-up with friends, this place blends sophistication and ease like a good cocktail should.

Expertly crafted cocktails, ambient lighting, and intimate interiors make Nightshade the ideal setting for unwinding long after dinner ends.

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SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026 jpanares@manilastandard.net

Trace the Good Food

Born in the Purple: Ube production in its PH birthplace amid global boom By Ratziel San Juan

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HE Philippines struck “purple gold” in ube (Dioscorea alata), its prized agricultural product that could well rival the likes of regional exports like kimchi and miso.

Due to its distinctly subtle but nutty flavor, the staple crop serves as a key ingredient in a range of local delicacies, including turon (banana spring roll), hopia (bean-filled pastry), halo-halo (mixmix), and even halaya (jam). Ube is also incorporated in various global desserts like cakes, pastries, and ice cream to lend a modern Filipino twist. “While the exact origins of ube-based dishes remain uncertain, archeological evidence suggests that yam species have been utilized in the Philippines for thousands of years. Historical accounts also show that ube appeared in early records of Philippine food culture,” the Philippine Root Crop Research and Training Center (PhilRootcrops) wrote. Food historian Felice Prudente Sta. Maria later noted that ube was mentioned in the first Tagalog– Spanish dictionary published in 1613, with subsequent culinary records from the early 20th century documenting recipes resembling jam-based desserts such as “jalea de calabaza” or pumpkin pie that possibly influenced the development of ube halaya as we know it today.

Demanding supplies

“Demand for ube-based products has risen significantly in both domestic and international markets. However, farmers often struggle to meet this demand due to declining production levels, limited access to resources, and the predominance of smallscale farming systems,” PhilRootcrops wrote. Considered a location-specific crop, ube requires

Many Dabawenyos flock to Aling Foping’s halo-halo store located at the Matina Town Square in Davao City on April 27, 2023, for some refreshments. Sold at P165, halo-halo is a perfect summer treat with its delightful mix of crushed ice, sweetened fruits, jellies, and other tasty ingredients, topped with evaporated milk and a scoop of ube ice cream. Robinson Niñal Jr.

particular soil and environmental conditions to achieve optimal yields, with farmers sometimes needing soil testing and careful site selection before planting to ensure successful cultivation. High-quality planting materials that are resistant to pests and diseases also have limited availability. Moreover, ube supply is seasonal, meaning it is unable to meet the hungry demand in the Philippines alone. This is immediately felt in data retrieved from the United Nations, which indicates that national ube production declined to approximately 14,000 metric tons in 2020 from around 30,074 metric tons in 2006. “This is further hindered by the fact that ube production is labor intensive and the country is lacking the appropriate mechanization to stabilize production—something that our government needs to focus on,” PhilRootcrops wrote.

Supplying demand

With ube’s recent exponential rise, the Philippine government is likewise doubling down on efforts to further cultivate this curious crop. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. in June announced the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) distributed more than 60,000 purple yam planting materials worth almost P2.6 million to farmers in Leyte and Bohol. “With ube now enjoying global recognition, we see an opportunity to expand production, increase exports, and help reduce the country’s more than US$10-billion annual agricultural trade deficit,”

The second day of the Ubi Festival 2021 in the New Norm showcases the different varieties of ube in Bohol, especially the ‘Kinampay’ and other agri-commodities at the Old City Airport in Tagbilaran City. Office of the Provincial Agriculturist Bohol

Tiu Laurel said. The distribution covered 900 farmers organized into more than 60 agricultural groups across key ube-producing areas in the Visayas.

The BPI also routinely provides technical support and capacity-building activities to help these ube farmers improve yields and tap emerging market opportunities. A giant steamer containing ube puto (purple yam-flavored steamed cake) is ready to delight buyers in Calasiao, Pangasinan, on April 28, 2023. The bite-sized native snack is made of semi-glutinous rice, showcased in the ‘MAY-KAN: Discovering flavors of the North through Gastronomic Experience’ tour. Joey O. Razon

File photo shows the Philippine Root Crop Research and Training Center. PhilRootcrops

More than just rice: Why the right grain matters for your family’s health FOR most Filipino families, a meal simply isn’t complete without rice. It’s the centerpiece of breakfast before a busy day, the comforting companion to home-cooked dinners, and the food that brings everyone around the table. But as more households embrace healthier lifestyles, many are discovering that not all rice choices are the same. Today’s families are looking beyond simply filling their plates—they’re choosing foods that nourish, energize, and support overall wellness. That’s where Mrs. Lam Rice comes in.

Known for its commitment to quality, Mrs. Lam Rice offers a selection of rice varieties designed to fit different lifestyles. Whether your family enjoys classic white rice, prefers the fiberrich goodness of brown rice, or wants to explore nutrient-packed adlai as part of a balanced diet, there’s a healthy option for every table. Nutrition experts agree that healthy eating isn’t about eliminating favorite foods—it’s about making smarter choices every day. Pairing quality rice with vegetables, lean protein, and fruits creates balanced meals that fuel both

children and adults, helping everyone stay active and energized. Beyond nutrition, choosing quality rice also means serving food you can trust. Mrs. Lam Rice carefully selects every grain to ensure consistency, freshness, and great taste, making every meal something families can enjoy with confidence. This Nutrition Month, let healthy habits begin

where they matter most—at home. Small choices, like selecting quality rice, can make a meaningful difference over time. Because when every meal starts with the right foundation, every family has the opportunity to live healthier, eat better, and create more moments together. Mrs. Lam Rice—bringing quality, nutrition, and care to every Filipino table.

Trace the Good Food The Westin Manila gets re-certified by Green Globe

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REEN Globe has recently re-certified The Westin Manila as recognition for its sustainable management and operations. Located in the heart of Ortigas business district, this MICHELIN Guide recognized, 5-star wellnessforward hotel offers premium hospitality and state-ofthe-art facilities focused on helping guests realize the best version of themselves and find balance even when they’re away from home. Energy, Water and Waste Management

Opened in 2023, The Westin Manila adheres to a comprehensive sustainability management plan (SMP) which is overseen by a dedicated Green Team with representatives drawn from each hotel department. Resource management is a key priority at the hotel with energy and water conservation measures already in place. Waste management strategies strive to minimize waste including food waste across all operational areas. Green procurement policies, recycling and composting initiatives, and donations to charitable causes help to limit waste volume going to landfill.

Culinary Menus with a Sustainable Focus

The hotel’s food and beverage programs implement responsible sourcing of ingredients while also avoiding unnecessary waste. In line with Marriott International’s Serve 360 sustainability program to reduce excess food production, the chefs have maintained the One Dish Wonders interactive buffet station where guests can select from a curated and featured selection which the chefs will prepare a la minute and serve on tasting plates to enhance the dining experience. Furthermore, the hotel’s Green Mondays initiative aims to support local entrepreneurs by building business relations with local chefs, restaurants,

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and farmers who share the same passion for plant-based cooking, wholesome ingredients, zero-waste menus and sustainability efforts.

Serve Kindness Fundraiser Recipe Book

As part of its efforts to empower the community to enhance their well-being and help them be the best versions of themselves amidst a busy urban lifestyle, the hotel put together a limitededition fundraiser recipe book called Serve Kindness and launched it in time for World Food Day. This project was designed to connect and empower the community through meals that are kind to the bodies, the environment, and the community. I t

(From left) Director of Human Resources Jon Padilla, General Manager Alexander Dietzsch, Chief Engineer Kershy Lanon, Director of Operations Catherine Constantino

i ith Adla asal w In r e ow Caulifl

features practical recipes ideal for every family, created by the hotel team and their wellness partners, to shed light on ways anyone can add variety and nutrients to their daily diet. Proceeds were donated to support the feeding programs of Scholars of Sustenance Philippines (SOS Philippines).

Wellness Initiatives

Last June 2025, the hotel started its Wellness Weekend series, offering multi-sensory and expert-led experiences designed to help ease the mind and body for reset and renewal. The

team collaborated with wellness advocates and specialists to help the community discover and unlock practices that can help them live better, achieve balance, and thrive. Aside from bringing the community through movement and mindful practices, the hotel also launched its quarterly Wellness Market, designed to care for the well-being of the community. This community pop-up features homegrown brands offering fitness essentials, clean eats, gut-friendly drinks, and zero-waste goods. They put a lot of thought into curating the lineup to ensure they provide options that cater to and support different preferences and lifestyles and make it more sustainable for every family.

community. Team members participated in the Road to Give charity event, dubbed as Kolor Run, which happens every year in Clark, Pampanga. In cooperation with Marriott Worldwide Business Councils Philippines, the Kolor Run is held for the benefit of Save the Children Philippines. To assist in the creation of a safe, bright, and welcoming environment for students, the hotel team collected donations and volunteered to clean up and repaint classrooms as part of Brigada Eskwela efforts. Brigada Eskwela is a nationwide Department of Education (DepEd) initiative in the Philippines where community volunteers help prepare public schools for the upcoming school year.

Giving Back to the Community

(Check out the full Sustainability Management Plan for more information about the hotel’s sustainable initiatives and programs)

The Westin Manila team is also deeply involved in a range of social initiatives that help children in the local

foodpanda empowers Pinoy MSMEs with Digital Growth Programs and Capital Loans IN CELEBRATION of National MSME Month, foodpanda Philippines has strengthened its commitment to local entrepreneurs by ramping up its suite of accessible financing options, digital growth programs, localized government partnerships, and specifically designed to accelerate the growth of Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). MSMEs make up over 99% of registered businesses in the Philippines and serve as the backbone of the national e c o n o m y. H o w e v e r, m a n y continue to face critical bottlenecks in digital visibility, shifting consumer demands, and securing expansion capital. foodpanda seeks to address these gaps directly by providing local entrepreneurs with the tech infrastructure and financial runway needed to compete in a rapidly evolving marketplace. “At foodpanda, we believe that when local businesses grow, communities thrive,” said Patricia Jacinto, Director of Growth and Marketing at foodpanda Philippines. “Our role extends beyond connecting merchants with customers. We want to empower entrepreneurs by giving them access to technology, marketing support, financing opportunities, and a platform that enables sustainable business growth.”

Breaking Financial Barriers with foodpanda Capital A key pillar of foodpanda’s empowerment strategy is foodpanda Capital, a per formance -based financing program. Recognizing that traditional bank loans often require strict collateral and lengthy paperwork that sideline microentrepreneurs, this initiative provides eligible merchant partners with accessible business loans featuring

simplified requirements, transparent terms, and zero collateral. The capital allows merchants to seamlessly invest in kitchen upgrades, raw materials, or physical expansions without traditional financial friction. For businesses like LugawJuan, which started as a humble lugawan during the pandemic and has since grown to six branches and over 30 employees, access to financing became essential to keeping pace with rising demand. “As our business grew, so did our need for capital. foodpanda Capital gave us the support to sustain larger orders, expand our operations, and continue growing with confidence,” shared Ems Muñoz, Founder of LugawJuan. Driving Hyper-Local Demand Through foodpanda’s advanced demand-generation campaigns, neighborhood favorites are scaling into city-wide brands. To help merchants consistently attract orders without draining their own marketing budgets, foodpanda runs a variety of strategic campaigns designed to capture different types

of users. This includes ongoing, nonstop platform promotions that keep local restaurants front and center on the app, alongside fully funded discount campaigns where foodpanda covers 100% of the voucher costs so merchants can boost sales without hurting their bottom line. Furthermore, the platform utilizes smart customer vouchers offering up to 50% off to win over first-time diners, reward loyal regulars, or welcome back previous customers, while free delivery perks eliminate extra ordering costs entirely to encourage more frequent neighborhood purchases. These targeted demand-generation efforts are already yielding tangible results for homegrown businesses. For instance, Kuya Mel Kitchen started as a humble food stall catering to students near DLSU; and through online delivery, has evolved into a high-volume Filipino eatery. Similarly, Pares Point Grill and Resto Bar in Makati transformed from a single kariton (cart) along Chino Roces into a full-scale brick-and-mortar restaurant. “ When we started, our goal was simply to serve good food to

our immediate neighborhood. Partnering with foodpanda has fueled our expansion and helped us build sustainably on the foundation we started years ago,” shared Roda Anisor, owner of Pares Point Grill and Resto Bar. Bridging the Digital Divide via DTI and LGU Partnerships To ensure countryside enterprises are not left behind, foodpanda is actively onboarding merchants through strategic collaborations with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and local government units (LGUs). By participating in national and national and provincial trade fairs and info caravans, foodpanda guides traditional vendors into the digital ecosystem. Through the PandaMarket initiative, homegrown brands— such as Cebu’s Jafar’s Shawarma and Braddex Batchoy, GenSan’s Mamastill Atbp. Davao’s beloved Davao Famous, and Siargao-born Spotted Pig—are now successfully capturing markets beyond their immediate geographic borders while remaining rooted in their local communities. By continuously investing in flexible technology, inclusive financial products, and grassroots public-private par tnerships, foodpanda Philippines aims to turn local entrepreneurial passion into resilient, highly scalable businesses.

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Trace the Good Food

Approche Hospitality Management

expands footprint in PH W

ITH its natural attractions, rich cultural heritage and renowned warmth, the Philippines remains one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling tourism destinations. The continued growth of domestic and international travel is creating opportunities not only for established hotel groups, but also for independent hotels, resorts and hospitality concepts across the country. As competition grows, more investors are diversifying their business portfolios by entering the hospitality industry. AHM guides owners through every stage of the journey—from concept development and pre-opening preparation to full operations—helping turn their vision into a professionally managed and sustainable hospitality business. Approche Hospitality Management (AHM) was established to address this need through practical, customized and data-informed hospitality solutions. Incorporated in July 2024, AHM has steadily expanded its presence within its first two years. The company now manages and supports a portfolio of 14 hospitality brands and properties, including hotels, resorts, restaurants, lifestyle destinations, a clubhouse and a food and beverage concept with eight branches. AHM’s services include hotel and resort management, revenue and e-commerce management, sales and digital marketing, online reputation management, food and beverage consultancy, executive search and training. “We are committed to delivering excellence in every property we manage, regardless of its size, category or location. Our starting point is always the owner’s vision. From there, we provide the experience and professional support needed to

move the business forward,” AHM management said. AHM’s approach is guided by eight core values: Scalable Service, Operational Excellence, Employee-Centric Culture, Brand Focus, Efficient Expense Management, Sustainable Operations, Business Continuity and Owner’s Representation. These values have remained the company’s foundation as it has taken on a wider range of properties and hospitality concepts. Travelers today expect more than a place to stay. They look for destinations where they can dine, work, relax, celebrate and connect with the local community. This shift has encouraged AHM to broaden its work beyond traditional hotel operations. Its portfolio now includes wellness destinations, dining establishments, meetings and events venues, lifestyle concepts, clubhouses and multi-branch food and beverage businesses. For AHM, developing local talent is essential to improving hospitality standards without losing the warmth and authenticity associated with Filipino service. “Great hospitality begins with people who understand the purpose behind what they do. When employees are guided, trained and empowered, they become important partners in creating memorable guest experiences and building a stronger business,” AHM management said.

JOYCE PANGCO PAÑARES, Issue Editor / email: joyce.panares@gmail.com

CRAVINGS

Trace the Good Food

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Mang Inasal delights Buddy Fiesta customers with specially designed reusable cups

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PART from the crave-worthy IhawSarap meals, Mang Inasal adds another reason for its customers to frequent its over 600 stores nationwide. Every purchase of the Mang Inasal Buddy Fiesta – All-Chicken or Combo of Paa and Pork BBQ with java rice and three small soft drinks – gives customers the chance to get a free, specially designed reusable Fiesta cup. “The Special Mang Inasal Fiesta Cups come in three fun designs that depict the Fiesta spirit that customers have long associated with the Ihaw-Sarap meals and Unli-Saya dining experience that Mang Inasal offers,” said Mang Inasal president Mike V. Castro. The promo runs until August 13, 2026, and is available for dine-in, takeout, drive-thru, or via Mang Inasal Delivery App and Delivery Website. “For a novelty item enthusiast like me, the Mang Inasal Fiesta cup is a welcome treat. I like that it comes with my favorite Mang Inasal Buddy Fiesta. This is definitely one promo that I will not let pass,” said food vlogger Marc Mascardo or The Lamon King. Momfluencer Heidie Mamauag shared her excitement over the

Mang Inasal Fiesta cups’ fun design. “Not only will my kids enjoy using them, the fact that they are reusable allows me to teach them the value of recycling – doing our bit in protecting Mother Earth,” she added. (Visit https://manginasal.ph for the latest news, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates)

Viva España! Fundador honors Spain’s World Cup win with rare commemorative collection FUNDADOR Brandy, the creator of Spain’s iconic first brandy, is celebrating Spain’s 2026 World Cup Championship by unveiling a special limited release of Edicion Campaones del Mundo 2026. Spain’s World Cup triumph over defending champions Argentina crowned the rise of a new golden generation. Built on the perfect blend of experience and youthful talent, the victory reaffirmed Spain’s status as one of international football’s defining powers of the 21st century. Fundador is one with Spain in celebrating the country’s greatest football achievement on the world stage. More than a commemorative bottle, Edicion Campaones del Mundo 2026 also celebrates a rare alignment of history. As Spain celebrates its second World Cup, Fundador is also witnessing the peak maturity of a carefully curated collection of exceptional brandies that have spent years patiently aging in its centuries-old sherry bodegas under the renowned Solera system. “ G r e a t achievements are built over time—with dedication, discipline, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. For Fundador, 2026 is a truly exceptional year. It is the year Spain lifts football’s greatest prize, and it is also the year some of our finest brandies reach their optimal maturity after

years of careful aging in our historic sherry bodegas. Edicion Campaones del Mundo 2026 is our tribute to these two extraordinary milestones, celebrating Spain’s enduring spirit, craftsmanship, and pursuit of excellence,” said Angel Piña, Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer of Bodegas Fundador. Founded in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, Fundador has spent nearly three centuries shaping Spain’s brandy-making legacy. As Spain’s first brandy, it has become one of the country’s most enduring symbols of authenticity, innovation, and master craftsmanship, preserving traditions passed down through generations of cellar masters. To be offered for sale in Spain and Global online stores, Edicion Campaones del Mundo 2026 embodies the values shared by both Spain’s championship legacy and Fundador’s nearly 300-year heritage—perseverance, authenticity, craftsmanship, and excellence. More than typifying the nation’s celebration not only of victory, this exclusive release from Fundador carries the patience and dedication required to achieve greatness. Fundador honors Spain’s World Cup win with limited-release Edicion Campeones del Mundo

JOLLIBEE IS VOTED USA TODAY’S NO. 1 BEST FAST FOOD FRIED CHICKEN FOR THIRD STRAIGHT YEAR THREE YEARS AT NO. 1. Jollibee has been voted the No. 1 Best Fast Food Fried Chicken in the U.S. in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for the third consecutive year, reinforcing Chickenjoy’s reputation for being the consistently crispy, juicy, and delicious fried chicken in one of the world’s most competitive quick-service restaurant markets.

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lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

GMA News to air multi-platform coverage of PBBM’s fifth SONA Lovi Poe describes signing with Star Magic as the fulfillment of a childhood dream

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SHOWBIZ Lovi Poe dreams to reimagine her father’s iconic films

OVI Poe hopes to star in a remake of one of her late father Fernando Poe Jr.’s movies after officially joining ABS-CBN’s talent management arm, Star Magic. The actress revealed that taking on one of FPJ’s stories tops her wish list for future projects. ICONIC.

Apart from working with Star Magic artists, Lovi Poe lists revisiting the work of her late father as one of the projects she’s looking into

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to deliver his fifth State of the Nation Address on July 27

GMA News will provide live, multiplatform coverage of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27, with broadcasts across television, radio, digital platforms, and regional and international channels. Award-winning broadcast journalist Pia Arcangel will anchor the network’s State of the Nation Address 2026 special coverage, which will air live on GMA and GTV and stream on the GMA News YouTube channel and Facebook page. The network’s flagship newscast, 24 Oras, will air special reports ahead of the President’s address before presenting highlights of the SONA. Coverage begins early with Unang Balita on Unang Hirit, followed by updates throughout the day on GTV’s Dobol B TV, Balitanghali, State of the Nation, and Saksi. GMA News Online, its website, and official Facebook, X, TikTok, and mobile app will provide real-time updates, a live blog, and an end-of-day summary. Regional coverage will air on GMA Regional TV’s local newscasts, including GMA Regional TV One North Central Luzon, Balitang Bisdak, Ratsada Balita, and One Mindanao, with livestreams available on GMA RTV’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. On radio, Super Radyo DZBB’s special SONA coverage will run from 3:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with simulcasts on GTV and selected Super Radyo stations nationwide. International audiences can also follow the address through GMA Pinoy TV, GMA News TV, and their official social media platforms.

“I think an FPJ story would be great. It doesn’t matter what it is. I hope that I get to do a project that my dad did,” she shared. The daughter of the late “King of Philippine Movies” described joining Star Magic as the fulfillment of a childhood dream, recalling how she grew up watching the network’s stars. “I grew up watching all the stars of Star Magic and watching ABSCBN. I never thought this was going to happen,” Lovi shared. “Just to be part of this family, I can’t believe it. For me, it’s a dream come true.” Star Magic welcomed Lovi during a media event at the ELJ Building, where Star Magic and TV Production head Laurenti Dyogi praised the actress’ versatility and her commitment to carrying on her father’s legacy. “Lovi represents excellence. She is a great actress, performer, and producer, and she is in a good place to protect the legacy of her father, FPJ,” the executive noted. With more opportunities to collaborate with fellow Star Magic artists, Lovi also expressed interest in reuniting with Coco Martin after portraying Mokang in the hit action series FPJ’s Batang Quiapo.’ “Working with Coco again would be nice, but I’d also love to work with Kathryn Bernardo, Gerald Anderson, Maris Racal, and Belle Mariano,” Poe shared. Meanwhile, Lovi shared that balancing her career with motherhood and married life has been possible because of what she describes as her “incredible support system.” “I have the best support system around me. I have my daughter, my husband, and great friends,” Lovi shared. “Ambition and motherhood go well together. With the right people around you and the right mindset, you’ll still be able to achieve your dreams.” During the official announcement of her signing with Star Magic, Lovi was joined by her husband, Montgomery Blencowe, whom she credited for supporting her career despite periods of long-distance marriage due to work commitments. “He’s been very supportive. We’ve been married, but we’re still doing long distance once in a while. It takes a real man to make something like that happen,” Lovi said. Lovi recently starred in the international suspense thriller My Sister’s Bones and continues to run her production company, C’est Lovi Productions, while preparing for new projects under Star Magic.

Liza Soberano leads Filipino-rooted fantasy into Comic-Con in San Diego By Jasper Valdez

Liza Soberano lends her voice to Raissa, one of the lead characters in ‘Forgotten Island’

Liza Soberano (left) joins Grammy-winning artist H.E.R. at San Diego Comic-Con as they present DreamWorks Animation’s ‘Forgotten Island,’ a fantasy inspired by Filipino folklore

LIZA Soberano is heading to San Diego Comic-Con to present a Hollywood animated film built around Filipino culture and mythology. The actress will join the panel for DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island today at Ballroom 20 of the San Diego Convention Center. She will appear alongside H.E.R., Dave Franco, directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, and Filipino girl group BINI. In the animated film, Soberano voices Raissa, one of two childhood friends whose final night together takes an unexpected turn when they enter a portal to Nakali, an island inhabited by creatures from stories passed down by their Filipino families. Grammy-winning artist H.E.R. voices Raissa’s best friend, Jo. Their attempt to return home becomes more difficult when they learn that escaping the island could cost them the memories of their friendship. The film draws heavily from Philippine folklore, with Lea Salonga voicing the feared manananggal. Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Jenny Slate, and Ronny Chieng are also part of the voice cast. BINI, meanwhile, recorded “A Parallel World” for the film’s soundtrack. The group will take part in the Comic-Con presentation as soundtrack artists. Forgotten Island marks another international project for Soberano following her Hollywood film debut in Lisa Frankenstein. The animated feature opens in Philippine cinemas on Sept. 23.

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‘THAT’S SCARY’

OpenAI reports ‘unprecedented’ autonomous hack by AI agents S AN FRANCISCO —ChatGPT maker OpenAI said Tuesday that its advanced artificial intelligence models had gone rogue during security testing, hacking into a popular platform for programmers on their own.

The San Francisco firm called it an “unprecedented cyber incident” and said it would conduct a joint investigation with the online code library Hugging Face. AI models that underpin tools like chatbots and image generators are known as agents when they act autonomously to carry out tasks in the real world. As the technology quickly becomes more sophisticated, cybersecurity is in the spotlight given the risk of advanced AI finding weak points in existing software before humans do. OpenAI said the incident involved a combination of models, including its recently launched GPT-5.6 Sol “and an even more capable pre-release model”. The company was trying to assess the models’ hacking capabilities by setting tasks in a tightly controlled digital testing ground, where internet access was limited for safety. “While operating in our sandboxed testing environment, our models spent a substantial amount of (computing power) finding a way to obtain open Internet access, in pursuit of solving the evaluation problem,” an OpenAI blog about the incident said. After connecting to the internet, the models decided to target the platform Hugging Face -- a large repository of AI models, datasets and other information -- to help in their quest. Searching for “secret information”

A smartphone and a laptop display the logos of the artificial intelligence OpenAI research laboratory and ChatGPT robot. ChatGPT maker OpenAI said that its advanced artificial intelligence models had gone rogue during security testing, hacking into a popular platform for programmers on their own. AFP

that could help it cheat the evaluation, the OpenAI system “chained together multiple attack vectors, including using stolen credentials”. ‘Catastrophic’ potential Hussein Abbass, a computing professor at UNSW Canberra, told AFP that the incident was “amazing on many fronts”. “It did not just attack Hugging Face. It actually attacked its internal system to exploit its own vulnerabilities,” Abbass said. “And that’s scary.” GPT-5.6 and other cutting-edge models, including the Mythos series from OpenAI’s archrival Anthropic, have drawn concern over their poten-

tial to breach cybersecurity defences. Both the US firms had to temporarily withhold the general release of these latest technologies because of fears in Washington that they could help break into crucial infrastructure. Advanced AI is “normally in the hands of people who are ethical and responsible”, Abbass said. But “it’s going to be catastrophic if it gets in someone’s hands with the intention to cause harm”. How to govern the AI sector has become a key question, and “we need a community effort to manage this situation”, he added. Hugging Face had reported the cyber “intrusion” last week, without

mentioning OpenAI. “This one was different from anything we had handled before in one important way: it was driven, end to end, by an autonomous AI agent system -- and we detected and dissected it largely with AI of our own,” Hugging Face said. Clement Delangue, CEO of Hugging Face, said on X that the company had suspected the cyberattack had come from a world-leading AI lab, given the sophistication of the agent. “We strongly believe there was no malicious intent on their part,” Delangue wrote, referring to OpenAI. “It’s quite mind-blowing that all of this happened autonomously!” AFP

Future-proof PR via AI + human creativity + EQ PUBLIC relations professionals are increasingly expected to master generative artificial intelligence (AI), while anchoring their work on collaborative and ethical practices. A study commissioned by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) found that “The future (of PR) requires balancing generative AI tools for speed and organization with human creativity and emotional intelligence to avoid robotic content saturation.” In addition, active collaboration and integration with marketing and advertising -- now increasingly powered by AI -- have become necessary to execute programs, even as PR maintains “distinct, long-term reputation goals.” Strict ethics was also found to be the foundation of respect for the profession. “PR has shifted from traditional media relations and meeting news deadlines to focusing heavily on (almost) real-time management of reputation. The media landscape is now a 24/7 digital

stream where anyone can break news, making platforms like Facebook, X, and Reddit essential for crisis monitoring,” said Prof. Jojo M. Villamin, who led the research team. The study, called “The Praxis Paradox: A Structural Audit of the Mismatch between Academic Foundations and Professional PR Practices in the Philippines,” was conducted by the San Beda Junior Marketing Association (SBJMA) under a partnership between PRSP and San Beda University through “The Marketing Lab.”. Prof. Villamin was aided by SBJMA members Ciaz Victoria and Cheska Torrevillas as well as SBJMA adviser and SBU Marketing Management Chair Greg Borja. The team conducted a series of Focus Group Discussions with key officials of PRSP, International Association of Business Communicators, International Public Relations Association, and some members of the academe. Complete results and recommen-

The team behind the PRSP-San Beda white paper: PRSP officials Ana Pista, APR president (center), Norman Agatep, APR, VP - Internal (second from left) and Ed Timbungco, ARP, VP - External (far left) and the SBU The Marketing Lab team Greg Borja, Marketing Management Chair; Prof. Jojo Villamin, and Cheska Torrevillas.

dations will be presented at the 33rd National PR Congress, to be held on September 17 and 18 at Solaire Resort

North. Get the whole picture. Register for the 33rd PR Congress now.

Globe brings 5G speed boost to Naga City NAGA CITY — Globe is bringing a 5G speed boost to Naga City with network upgrades that deliver broader coverage and faster mobile speeds. The latest enhancements provide customers with a more reliable overall mobile experience, supporting the growing demand for streaming, remote work, and other digital services. As Camarines Sur’s largest city and Bicol Region’s economic, educational, cultural, and religious center, Naga continues to thrive as a hub for commerce, education, tourism, and public services. Globe’s enhanced network enables Nagueños to enjoy faster downloads and uploads, smoother streaming, quicker file sharing, more reliable video calls, and seamless access to online services. These upgrades support highdemand activities such as online learning, cloud-based work, e-commerce, digital payments, content creation, and the growing adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions across homes, businesses, and public services. With its 5G network coverage for the 21 barangays in Naga City, Globe is enabling more residents, businesses, and visitors to enjoy faster speeds, smoother digital experiences, and more reliable connectivity. “Connectivity plays a vital role in helping communities succeed in today’s digital world. By enhancing our new 5G network in Naga City, we are providing customers with a faster and more reliable mobile experience that supports learning, business, tourism, and everyday communication,” said Adonis Evangelista, Globe General Manager for South Luzon. The network upgrades complement Globe’s ongoing partnership with the Naga City government through the Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP), which promotes digital citizenship, cybersecurity awareness, online safety, data privacy, and cyberbullying prevention among students, teachers, parents, and community members. Supported by the Department of Education, the program has reached more than 2 million learners nationwide through free learning modules and interactive sessions that encourage responsible online behavior and safer digital practices. “Reliable digital connectivity is key to Naga City’s continued growth and transformation. Globe has been a valuable partner in expanding digital access while promoting responsible technology use through initiatives that benefit our students, communities, and local institutions. Together, these efforts help advance our vision of a more connected, resilient, and futureready Naga,” said Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo.

Fastly named a ‘26 Gartner Peer Insights Customers’ Choice for Edge Distribution Platforms FASTLY, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLY), a leader in global edge cloud platforms, today announced it has been recognized as a 2026 Gartner® Peer Insights™ Customers’ Choice for Edge Distribution Platforms. This distinction is based entirely on verified peer reviews, where Fastly received overall high ratings across the board for its platform performance and reliability, dedication to customer experience, and ongoing customer support. Fastly received the highest overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars (based on 92 reviews) with a 95% Willingness to Recommend score as of April 30, 2026. This latest acknowledgement builds on Fastly’s recognition last year as a Gartner® Peer Insights™ Customers’ Choicefor Cloud Web Application and API Protection (WAAP) for seven consecutive years. Fastly believes this consistent, customer-centric recognition underscores the trust customers place in Fastly and the value its platform delivers. According to Fastly, this public customer feedback reinforces its track record of innovation and execution, delivering compelling, real-time experiences with flexible observability

Kim Ogletree, Chief Customer Officer at Fastly

and comprehensive security. As enterprises accelerate their AI initiatives, the Fastly platform enables them to optimize and scale AI workloads with speed and confidence. “This recognition is incredibly meaningful

because it comes directly from the technology and business leaders we partner with every day to ensure we continue to deliver an innovative and resilient platform,” said Kim Ogletree, Chief Customer Officer at Fastly. “At Fastly, innovation translates directly into real outcomes for our customers. They trust us to support them through their most critical moments, allowing them to move fast, stay secure, and remain ready for what’s next. This distinction reaffirms that our edge platform equips enterprises to accelerate innovation securely and at scale.” Select Gartner® Peer Insights™ reviews that Fastly believes contributed to its recognition include: “Fastly team and technical solution has been great to work with. They are collaborative, offer great support, and have a product that performs very well.” - Chief Engineering Officer, Software “Fastly is a fantastic CDN provider, and in my experience one of the most powerful and flexible platforms available. Its real-time configuration, strong performance, and developer tools make it stand out from other providers. Personally, it is my favorite edge provider, and

in my opinion the best CDN on the market today. Their platform is reliable, flexible and built with developers in mind.” - Chief Technology Officer, Software “My experience with Fastly has been five stars! This starts with their sales, services, and support teams, all of whom are extremely knowledgeable and always willing to train, support and collaborate with their customers. The platform itself is designed to handle everything from simple implementations to highly complex architectures in a fast, secure, and reliable way.” - Director of Technical Operations, Retail “Overall, Fastly has provided us with very good performance and has improved our end-user experience. Their technical support also has proven valuable to our engineering team as well as our security team.” - VP, IT, Transportation “My team often mentions Fastly is the best vendor to work with. Their support has always gone above and beyond, and the developer focus in how they built the platform and APIs, and outstanding performance has made working with Fastly a dream.” - Engineering Manager, Retail

TECH

E4 SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2026 rumallari@thestandard.com.ph rieramallari@yahoo.com

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

101 free HONOR gadgets! No follow needed WHAT? HONOR Philippines is giving away 101 HONOR gadgets to its growing community with its biggest giveaway yet! Known for continuously surprising consumers with blockbuster promotions -- from giving away luxury vehicles to exclusive rewards -- HONOR is once again raising the bar by putting 101 HONOR devices up for grabs in a nationwide giveaway, including the latest HONOR 600 Series. This celebrates the overwhelming support of HONOR fans while making the brand’s innovative technology more accessible to everyone. Joining is as easy as it gets. Participants simply need to comment on the official giveaway post: https://www.facebook.com/share/ p/18wfpQRyTc/ -- no follow required! “Our fans have always been at the heart of everything we do. This giveaway is our way of thanking them for their continued trust and support while giving more Filipinos the opportunity to experience HONOR technology,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. To stay updated on the latest news, products, and promotions from HONOR Philippines, visit the official HONOR Philippines website: www.hihonor.com, and on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@ honorphilippines).

HONOR is once again raising the bar by putting 101 HONOR devices up for grabs in a nationwide giveaway, including the latest HONOR 600 Series.

Long-term reliability with OPPO A6s 5G F

OR many Filipinos, a smartphone has become a daily essential. It’s a device that’s expected to keep up every single day, not just during the first few months after unboxing. That’s why reliability has become one of the smartest things to look for before making a purchase.

The OPPO A6s 5G is designed with that kind of long-term value in mind, combining features that remain dependable long after day one. It’s ensured to stay smooth, lasts long on a single charge, and can handle everyday accidents, helping users avoid unnecessary upgrades, repairs, and extra expenses over the years. Performance That Doesn’t Fade With Time The OPPO A6s 5G’s massive 7000mAh Large Battery provides extended usage for daily activities without frequent charging. Designed to retain over 80% of its original capacity even after 1,800 charging cycles, it delivers over five years of durable battery performance under normal use meaning fewer battery-related concerns, fewer charging interruptions, and potentially delaying the need for costly battery replacements or an entirely new smartphone. Even after years of daily charging,

users can continue relying on their OPPO A6s 5G for long workdays, weekend trips, video calls, navigation, and entertainment without worrying that the battery won’t last as long as it used to. Durability That Helps You Save in the Long Run Designed for real-world durability, the OPPO A6s 5G comes with IP69 Water and Dust Resistance, offering protection against dust intrusion, powerful water jets, water immersion, and even high-temperature water sprays under certified testing conditions. By reducing the risk of accidental damage, the phone is better equipped to stay reliable over the long term while helping users avoid unexpected repair costs. From unexpected rain showers and dusty commutes to accidental splashes during meals or coffee breaks, the OPPO A6s 5G is built to handle the kinds of situations many users encounter every day.

Build your ultimate smart study space with new Xiaomi Pad 8 Series AS digital learning becomes a permanent fixture in modern education, today’s students need efficient and high-performance study tools that can keep up with their fast-paced schedules. From streaming lectures and jotting down handwritten notes to designing group presentations and studying on the go, nowadays, a single smartphone or heavy laptop often isn’t enough. Modern learners need a versatile, powerful, and accessible central hub for all their academic demands. To help Filipino students create a smarter and more efficient study setup without stretching their budgets amid rising prices, Xiaomi offers the Xiaomi Pad 8 Series, which features the Xiaomi Pad 8 and Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro, accompanied by the all-new Xiaomi Focus Pen Pro and Xiaomi Pad 8 / 8 Pro Keyboard. Designed to deliver flagship performance, immersive displays, and PC-level productivity, the Xiaomi Pad 8 Series turns any desk, cafe, or library corner into an ideal study environment–no bulky and stationary setup necessary. Flagship Power and All-Day Battery for Non-Stop Productivity Whether you’re tackling intensive research, editing videos for a class project, or multitasking across multiple open documents, performance and battery life are critical. The Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro is the most powerful option for learners who need a one-stop solution for everything they need to create and produce. Engineered for power users, the Pad 8 Pro delivers flagship-level speed and responsiveness for heavy multitasking and demanding creative applications with its cutting-edge 3nm process. You can also go all day long as it features a massive 9,200mAh battery that’s boosted by 67W HyperCharge, letting you study all day and rapidly top up between classes. Meanwhile, for those with slightly smaller budgets, the Xiaomi Pad 8 is just as reliable a choice. It balances high performance through its 4nm process with optimized power usage, as it boasts the same long-lasting 9,200mAh battery backed by 45W Turbo Charging, also making low-battery anxiety a thing of the past. Both models feature an extraordinarily sleek, ultra-slim 5.75-mm body and come in three stylish colors: Gray, Blue, and Pine Green, making them as aesthetic as they are portable.

Empowering the modern student, the Xiaomi Pad 8 Series Builds helps build a Smarter Study Space for proactive learning

Immersive Display and Audio Built for Focus Long study sessions require a display that protects eyes while keeping visual content crisp and clear. Both the Xiaomi Pad 8 and Pad 8 Pro feature a stunning 3.2K 144Hz Crystal-clear Display that renders textbooks, PDF lectures, and educational videos with vibrant clarity and smooth scrolling. Complemented by quad speakers for rich, immersive audio, the Pad 8 Series allows students to hear every detail in online lectures, language lessons, and study playlists. Smarter Workflows with Xiaomi HyperAI & PC-Level Productivity Hardware is only half the equation; software completes the modern study experience. Powered by Xiaomi HyperAI, the Pad 8 Series simplifies note-taking, summaries, and organization, helping students stay ahead of their coursework. With PC-level productivity features, users can run multi-window setups, switch seamlessly between study apps, and manage files just as effortlessly as on a traditional laptop. And to unlock the full potential of a smart study space, Xiaomi offers dedicated accessories engi-

neered for smooth creation and typing: There’s the Xiaomi Focus Pen Pro, which is specifically engineered to provide a fluid, natural writing feel. Weighing just 17.5g with a Golden Balance design, this stylus features 16,384 pressure sensitivity levels and ultra-low latency. Its flexible nib is gentle on the screen, while a strong magnetic attachment and 100mAh battery ensure it is always charged and ready for quick lecture notes or digital sketching. Of course, a powerful tablet isn’t an effective work and study companion without a reliable and responsive keyboard. The Xiaomi Pad 8 and 8 Pro Keyboard offers one-step support at a comfortable viewing angle. With a 64-key (US) and 65-key (UK) English layout, it transforms the tablet into a lightweight typing workstation for drafting essays and reports anywhere. The Xiaomi Pad 8 Series, Xiaomi Focus Pen Pro, and Xiaomi Pad 8 / 8 Pro Keyboard are available now through the Xiaomi Online Shop and Xiaomi’s official Shopee and Lazada stores, as well as authorized Xiaomi stores nationwide. To learn more about the Xiaomi Pad 8 Series, visit http://mi.com/ph.

The OPPO A6s 5G is ensured to stay smooth, lasts long on a single charge, and can handle everyday accidents, helping users avoid unnecessary upgrades, repairs, and extra expenses over the years.

Ready for a Phone That Goes the Distance? Choosing a smartphone isn’t only about what it can do today. It’s about how well it continues to perform years from now. The OPPO A6s 5G proves that long-term reliability is one of the smartest investments a smartphone can offer. Built to stay dependable through everyday use, it helps users maximize the value of their purchase with fewer repairs, fewer replacements, and lower ownership costs over time. The OPPO A6 Series is available nationwide through OPPO Stores and online via Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and the OPPO Online Store. The OPPO A6 comes in Sakura Pink, Sapphire Blue, and Aurora Gold, while the OPPO A6s 5G is available in Ice White and Cappuccino Brown. The OPPO A6 is available for as low as Php 16,999 (4GB + 256GB) and P19,999 (8GB + 256GB) with a P1,000 voucher, while the OPPO A6s 5G can be purchased for as low as P21,999 (6GB + 128GB) and P23,999 (8GB + 256GB) with a P2,000 voucher. For more updates, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com. ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

Nokia says AI, cloud boosted sales in Q2 HELSINKI, Finland—Finnish telecommunications equipment maker Nokia said that demand for its AI and cloud services drove sales higher in the second quarter, but restructuring charges ate into earnings. The second quarter “demonstrates our strategy is delivering results,” chief executive Justin Hotard said in a statement. “Since we set out our plan late last year, Team Nokia has focused on maximising our opportunity in the AI supercycle. I am encouraged by the execution and progress we have made in a short period of time. We enter the second half with momentum,” he said. Nokia booked profit of 5.0 million euros ($5.7 million) for the period from April to June, down from 96 million euros a year earlier. Second-quarter sales, on the other hand, rose by eight percent to 4.8 billion euros. The group attributed the sharp drop in earnings to restructuring charges which are projected to amount to 800 million euros for the full year. Underlying or operating profit -- which strip out one-off factors -- rose by 18 percent to 434 million euros. “In the second quarter, our AI and cloud order intake was 2.8 billion euros while sales more than doubled year-on-year,” said CEO Hotard. “The strength was broad-based We expect around half of these orders to convert to revenue over the next 12 months,” he continued. AFP