Manila Standard - 2026 July 28 - Tuesday

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House, biz, economists support SONA plans; 13 senators absent

By Maricel V. Cruz, Ram Superable, Thony Lesaca, and Othel V. Campos SPEAKER Faustino Dy III on Monday said the House of Representatives is ready to swiftly translate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) into legislation, even as members of the Senate minority bloc skipped the President’s

VOL. XL • NO. 164 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 • TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026

PBBM’S 5TH SONA:

speech in protest over the detention of opposition lawmakers.

Dy said the House would prioritize measures to raise the tax-exempt annual income threshold to P350,000, reduce income taxes for other workers, exempt small businesses from the minimum corporate income tax, and grant tax amnesty on unpaid income, estate, donor’s and value-added taxes and related penalties.

‘I’m not president of family or friends, but of nation’

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Vows justice in flood control cases, lower power cost, uphold WPS rights

By Charles Dantes, Maricel Cruz, Alena Mae Flores, Ram Superable and Rex Espiritu

P

RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday highlighted efforts to hold accountable all those involved in anomalous flood control projects across the country in his penultimate State of the Nation Address.

Most Pinoys see admin’s anti-corruption efforts lacking NEWS / A3

He also took a strong stance on external security threats, declaring that “Filipinos do not yield” as he asserted the country’s rights in the West Philippine Sea and upheld the 2016 Arbitral Award that invalidated China’s expansive maritime claims.

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STATE OF THE NATION.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. delivers his penultimate State of the Nation Address (SONA), eliciting applause and a standing ovation from lawmakers at the heavilyguarded House of Representatives. Inset at left shows protesters holding an effigy of US President Donald Trump while a bomb expert at left scours the ground where an improvised explosive was discovered near the Senate building in Manila.

Revoli Cortez, Edd Castro, Southern Police District.

Bomb blast at DOJ mars otherwise peaceful SONA—Nartatez

By Vince Lopez A HOMEMADE bomb exploded near the entrance of the Department of Justice (DOJ) early Monday, hours before a suspected unexploded device was found near the Senate, authorities said.

The blast shortly after midnight

Marcos, VP Sara laud INC on its 112th anniversary

By Charles Dantes and Katrina Manubay

caused no casualties and came hours before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivered his State of the Nation Address (SONA). Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said there is a “strong possibility” the two incidents are related.

Nartatez said police had contingen-

cy plans for bomb threats and actual bombings but acknowledged that “something got past us and exploded in front of the Department of Justice.”

Authorities have yet to determine the size of the explosion. Manila Police District spokesperson Philipp Ines said the investigation is ongoing, while

images posted by local media showed a cracked vehicle windshield and scattered debris.

Police said a tow truck driver spotted the suspected device near the Senate before 8:30 a.m. and alerted security personnel.

Explosive ordnance teams recovered a

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By Katrina Manubay

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Pinay beauties win Tourism, Teen U crowns in Sri Lanka

By Angelica Villanueva

PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday hailed the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) for promoting faith, discipline and service as he congratulated the religious organization on its 112th anniversary.

“For more than a century, the INC has served as a steadfast guide to a community grounded in faith, discipline, and a shared sense of responsibility,” Mr. Marcos said in his message, noting the religious group’s growth from “humble beginnings” into a global institution, saying its work has helped strengthen the moral foundation of society.

PBBM, VP Sara’s performance, trust ratings fall

THE Philippines secured two international pageant titles after Filipina beauty queens Alexandra Krishna Oriño and Ma. Kathleen Monjardin were crowned at the 7th Miss and Miss Teen Tourism International Pageant held in Sri Lanka.

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BACK-TO-BACK WIN.

Miss Teen Tourism Universe 2026 Ma. Kathleen Monjardin (left) and Miss Tourism 2026 Alexandra Krishna Oriño secure a back-to-back win for the Philippines at the 7th Miss and Miss Teen Tourism International Pageant in Sri Lanka.

Ma. Kathleen Monjardin IG page

PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte both saw their trust and performance ratings fall below majority levels in the latest nationwide survey.

The President posted an eight-point decline in satisfaction while Vice President Duterte recorded her lowest trust and performance ratings since 2022, according to a survey by the OCTA Research group.

In the latest Tugon ng Masa poll, results showed that President Marcos’s performance rating fell from 55 percent in March 2026 to 47 percent in July 2026, with about 33 percent dissatisfied and 20 percent undecided.

Trust in him also declined significantly, dropping by 5 percentage points from 54 percent to 49 percent, with around 32 percent expressing distrust and 19 percent undecided.

Across major regions, distrust of the President was most pronounced in Mindanao at 49 percent, followed by Visayas (35 percent) and the National Capital Region (34 percent), while Balance Luzon registered the lowest at 22 percent.

By socioeconomic class, distrust ranged from 28 percent in Class E to Next page

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Bomb...

From A1 blasting cap, a clock, and a jar containing brown powder for testing. National Capital Region Police Office spokesperson Maj. Hazel Asilo declined to estimate the potential blast radius of the device.

The incidents occurred amid heightened political tensions, with Vice President Sara Duterte facing an impeachment trial and the government under scrutiny over alleged anomalies in flood control projects.

Meanwhile, Nartatez said 51 individuals were arrested for various violations during protest actions held before the President’s fifth SONA. Most were caught committing acts of vandalism and were cited for violating Republic Act No. 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, Batas Pambansa Blg. 880, or the Public Assembly Act of 1985, and local ordinances regulating the wearing of balaclavas.

Despite the arrests, Nartatez said the SONA was generally peaceful and orderly, with no untoward or violent incidents recorded. He credited the successful security operations to the coordinated efforts of the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Metro Manila Development Authority, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Quezon City government.

“Our sacrifices from planning to the implementation of security measures paid off. This would not have happened without the dedication and hard work of our personnel and our partner agencies,” Nartatez said, adding that the peaceful conduct of the SONA allowed the public to focus on the President’s report on the state of the nation.

More than 20,000 police officers were deployed across Metro Manila to secure key government installations, manage traffic, and coordinate with partner agencies under the directive of President Marcos and the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla. With AFP

Marcos,...

From A1 He added that the church’s continued mission demonstrates that “a life rooted in devotion and integrity helps reinforce the moral foundation of society.”

“As you gather in thanksgiving, may this milestone deepen your commitment to translating your beliefs into meaningful acts that uplift those in need, comfort the weary, and foster harmony wherever you serve,” Marcos said.

“In this spirit, I encourage every member of the INC to remain a steadfast partner in nation-building, where faith is demonstrated through service and citizenship is expressed through genuine concern for others,” he added.

Vice President Sara Duterte similarly issued a video statement emphasizing the ongoing partnership between the government and the INC, highlighting the religious institution’s long-standing contributions to community service, nation-building, and the promotion of peace and unity.

“Through your programs in education, livelihood, and rapid disaster response, you continue to demonstrate the true meaning of compassion for fellow Filipinos—not only within the Philippines but across the globe,” Duterte said in Filipino.

House...

From A1 “The SONA sets the direction of the administration. The role of the House is to ensure it receives the necessary support through orderly, thorough, and timely deliberation of measures,” Dy said.

He also pledged support for the proposed Sariling Kuryente Act to expand access to rooftop solar and battery storage, as well as amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) to remove systems loss charges and the corresponding VAT from consumers’ electricity bills.

“These are practical reforms that respond to the everyday concerns of Filipino families. The House is committed to working closely with the Executive to turn these priorities into laws,” he said.

Minority absence ‘simple way of protesting’

On the other side of Congress, Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano and Senator Imee Marcos said earlier Monday they would not attend the President’s address at the Batasang Pambansa.

Senator Imee Marcos said fellow minority lawmakers Loren Legarda, Pia Cayetano and Robinhood Padilla had also decided to skip the SONA.

‘I’m not...

From A1 The chief executive also unveiled a list of priority legislative measures that includes prohibiting the passing of systems loss charges to power consumers, expanding income tax exemptions, and revisiting nuclear energy production.

‘Wheels of justice are turning’

In his longest SONA since he took office in 2022 at one hour and twenty-six minutes, Mr. Marcos said multiple cases are now being prepared against his cousin, former Speaker Martin Romualdez.

“We have reached the point where, according to the Ombudsman, the filing of multiple cases against the former Speaker is near. Painful as it may be for me, we have to do what is right,” he said. “(But) I am not the President of my family. I am not the president of my friends. I am the President of the Philippines, and my duty is to you, my fellow Filipinos,” Mr. Marcos said.

Romualdez, for his part, said he respects the President’s remarks, adding that he has never sought any favor or special treatment from the administration and remains ready to answer the allegations on flood control irregularities through the proper legal process.

“Painful as this is for our family, I respect the President’s statement. I never asked for any favor or special treatment,” the former Speaker said.

“I agree that we should do the right thing. The right thing to do is to follow the process and let the evidence speak for itself.”

“I maintain that I have not done anything illegal, and I am ready to prove it,” Romualdez added.

Mr. Marcos said the government has already recovered, frozen or preserved at least P25 billion worth of funds and assets, of which more than P800 million has already been returned to the National Treasury.

“We are leaving the prosecution to the Ombudsman and our strengthened National Prosecution Service. We also trust in the fair judgment of the courts. You can be assured that the wheels of justice are turning,” the President added.

‘We are kind and gracious, but we do not yield’

Mr. Marcos received a standing ovation as he rallied Filipinos to stand united against growing security challenges, saying his administration would continue defending the country’s sovereignty and dignity through peaceful and lawful means.

“Let me remind our friends and our detractors: Filipinos are a noble, kind, gracious, and great race. We are not greedy.

We are not racists. We are not liars,” he said.

“We are respectful, and we are dignified.

We are Filipinos, and we do not yield.”

“In the face of insults, we will not be shaken. Before oppressors, we will not be subdued,” the commander-in-chief added.

Mr. Marcos likewise said the landmark arbitral ruling remains a cornerstone of the Philippines’ maritime policy and vowed that the government

Pinay...

From A1 On Saturday, July 25, Oriño won Miss Tourism 2026, while Monjardin took home the Miss Teen Tourism Universe 2026 crown, giving the country a

“Papakinggan ‘yun nga lang, masama ang loob namin kasi pinagkukulong, kinakasuhan ang minority. Parang ‘di ko kaya,” she said, adding there was no agreement among the senators to boycott the event or wear black.

(We will listen. It’s just that we are deeply saddened because members of the minority are being jailed and charged. I find that very difficult to accept.)

Alan Peter Cayetano, who had vowed to deliver a “counter-SONA” speech, described his absence as “a simple way of protesting.”

“I prefer to watch it on TV. That may be more comfortable for the administration and it’s my simple way of protesting,” he said, adding he believes democracy is under threat because government critics are being targeted.

Minority Senators Mark Villar and Christopher “Bong” Go were also among the 13 total senators absent from the President’s annual report to Congress, but Senator Camille Villar attended.

Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Rodante Marcoleta remain detained on separate plunder charges. Senator Ronald Dela Rosa is in hiding, evading arrest following a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court against him for alleged crimes against humanity.

Three majority senators did not attend the SONA. Senator Vicente Sotto

would continue to defend it.

“This is not a claim that we advance alone, nor is it one that we will abandon,” he said. “Your government will do all that is necessary to continue upholding this Award, utilizing every peaceful and legal means available to the Republic against any attempt, foreign or domestic, to undermine this achievement.”

He also paid tribute to members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard as well as Filipino fishermen, saying their continued presence in Philippine waters gives practical meaning to the arbitral victory.

“To them we owe collective gratitude and appreciation, for it is they who give life to the letter and spirit of the Arbitral Award,” he said.

Mr. Marcos’ remarks came after last week’s renewed confrontations in the West Philippine Sea. China Coast Guard vessels fired water cannons on Philippine ships in two separate instances near Panatag Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc).

Chinese sailors near Ayungin shoal also clubbed a Filipino Navy serviceman over the head with a baton, necessitating a medical evacuation.

The violent confrontations followed widespread outrage over an AI-generated video released by China’s staterun China Daily depicting Filipinos as monkeys, prompting Manila to file a diplomatic protest and denounce the material as racist and dehumanizing .

The group added that without a direct government subsidy, a total ban on system loss recovery directly violates Section 25 of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 and would bankrupt non-profit cooperatives.

Ronnie Aperocho, chief operating officer of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), said the entire power industry would be affected by removing the system loss charge.

Meralco’s system loss currently accounts for about 5 percent of a consumer’s electricity bill.

Jay Layug, president of Developers of Renewable Energy for AdvanceMent Inc. and executive board member and director of the Philippine Energy Research and Policy Institute, said “an in-depth and calibrated study must be undertaken before considering eliminating systems loss in the electricity bills.”

The system loss charge is allowed by regulators to recover the cost of power lost through technical and non-technical causes. Technical system loss is the natural, unavoidable loss of electricity as it flows through transmission and distribution lines. Non-technical system loss results from illegal connections, electricity theft and jumper lines.

The Energy Regulatory Commission sets a maximum level of system loss that distribution utilities can collect.

Losses beyond that ceiling cannot be passed on to customers and must be absorbed by the utility.

“We will follow what is in the law. If it already prohibits the charging of system loss or recovery of costs associated with it, we will comply. The question is, are the utilities ready? Will their operations not suffer?” ERC chairperson Francis Saturnino Juan said.

diversify the country’s energy mix and improve energy security.

“Pushing the envelope further, perhaps it is time for us to revisit nuclear energy production. We are already using nuclear energy in the fields of medicine, agriculture, water filtration, and the upcycling of plastic.”

“We are confident in its capacity to reinforce our energy security and bring down the cost of electricity in our country,” he added.

Expanding social assistance, health benefits

The President also listed down priority measures as he called on Congress to ensure their swift passage.

Mr. Marcos received another standing ovation from the lawmakers in attendance after pushing for the amendment of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) to remove the practice of passing electricity systems loss charges to consumers, arguing that households should not shoulder costs beyond their control.

“It is time to remove the systems loss charges being passed on to consumers.

These charges are added to consumers’ electricity bills and are even subject to value-added tax.” “(But) consumers are not responsible for why systems loss occurred, so it is not right that they should be the ones paying for it,” he added.

The Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association Inc., for its part, warned that removing system loss charges without any government subsidy would bankrupt the country’s electric cooperatives.

“We can support the complete elimination of system loss charges from electricity billing if and only if the national government directly shoulders these costs through a dedicated subsidy mechanism,” PHILRECA said.

“System losses on rural distribution networks—arising from extended feeder lines and challenging terrain—are governed by the law of thermodynamics rather than inefficiency.”

The President likewise announced plans to seek congressional approval for a tax relief package designed to cushion the middle class and businesses from the economic effects of the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

He also urged lawmakers to revisit nuclear energy as a long-term solution to strengthen the country’s energy supply and lower power prices.

“To ensure the continued progress of the middle class amid the lingering effects of the crisis, we will pursue tax relief measures that promote growth, that generate revenue, and advance equity toward socio-economic sustainability,” the chief executive said.

The proposal includes exempting workers earning up to P350,000 annually from paying income tax, reducing income tax rates for other wage earners, and eliminating the minimum corporate income tax for small businesses.

The President likewise proposed a tax amnesty covering unpaid income, estate, donors’ and value-added taxes, including corresponding penalties, saying the measures are intended to provide relief to taxpayers while encouraging compliance.

As for nuclear power, the administration has previously identified it as part of its long-term energy strategy to

Mr. Marcos said the government would recalibrate its assistance programs to cover more Filipinos in need, including beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and the Walang Gutom Program.

The expanded assistance, he said, is expected to reach around 3.5 million beneficiaries of the two programs, 1.5 million minimum wage earners who are members of the Social Security System, and 2.5 million poor Filipinos who have yet to receive government aid.

The President said continued assistance would also be extended to the transport sector, farmers and other agriculture stakeholders, and overseas Filipino workers affected by global uncertainties.

“In total, we will be able to assist more than 7.5 million families who are in great need during this difficult chapter,” he said.

The government will also expand preventive healthcare services, increase Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) benefit packages, and strengthen the country’s health infrastructure to further improve the implementation of Universal Health Care, Mr. Marcos said.

He said the government aims to widen the coverage of PhilHealth’s YAKAP (Yaman ng Kalusugan Program) by accrediting more clinics to provide Filipinos with greater access to preventive health services.

The government would also expand the related GAMOT (Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment) program, which allows PhilHealth members to obtain essential medicines from more than 2,000 accredited providers, with an annual benefit limit of P20,000 per member.

The program covers 75 essential medicines, including antibiotics and drugs for asthma, hypertension, cholesterol, diabetes, cough, fever and other common illnesses.

Beginning next year, Marcos said the government would gradually include various blood tests and medicines under the program to enable early detection and monitoring of kidney, liver, thyroid and Hepatitis B conditions.

He also announced plans to double the PhilHealth benefit package for consultation and therapy services for children with developmental disabilities.

The number of therapy sessions covered by PhilHealth will increase from 90 to 150, while beneficiaries will also receive additional financial assistance through the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Project Aruga.

double victory that day.

Following her latest win, Oriño shared a video of her coronation on Instagram and dedicated the victory to the country.

“Para sayo ’to, Pilipinas,” she wrote in the caption.

Oriño previously represented Albay in the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 pageant. She

competed for the national title, which Bea Millan-Windorski eventually won.

Meanwhile, Monjardin also congratulated Oriño in an Instagram story.

“My biggest congratulations, [Krishna]!

Beyond the crown, I am blessed to meet someone with such a gentle heart,” she wrote.

The back-to-back win added to the

Philippines’ long record of strong performances in international beauty pageants, particularly in competitions that combine tourism promotion, cultural representation, and public speaking.

Both winners are expected to use their respective titles to promote tourism, culture, and youth engagement during their reigns.

III said he had a serious cold and did not want to infect others while taking intravenous medicines at home.

Senators Panfilo Lacson and Bam Aquino, like Sotto, were present at the Senate building for the formal opening of the second regular session of the 20th Congress in the morning but were absent at the Batasang Pambansa in the afternoon.

Despite the political divide, Senator Francis Pangilinan welcomed the President’s proposed Progress Bill, saying tax reforms should ease the burden on workers, farmers and small businesses.

“We welcome the Progress Bill as a step toward a tax system that is fair, equitable, and more responsive to the realities faced by ordinary Filipinos,” Pangilinan said, adding that additional revenues should support agriculture and fisheries.

PBBM,...

From A1

44 percent, followed by Class D at 36 percent and Class E at 27 percent, with about 19 percent undecided.

OCTA said that President Marcos’s decline appears to be broad-based nationwide and, unlike the Vice President’s, may not be as clearly linked to a single event such as the impeachment trial.

The administration might have been perceived by some Filipinos as unable to adequately shield them from the domestic economic fallout.

Meanwhile, the vice president’s rating decline is attributed to the impeachment proceedings that began on July 6, which received extensive live coverage across both broadcast and online platforms, with thousands of police deployed around the Senate and protesters gathering to call for her conviction, OCTA said.

OCTA indicated that Q2 results suggest these developments point to a broader climate of political, economic, and social strain rather than any single trigger.

The face-to-face survey was conducted from July 4 to 11, with 1,200 respondents aged 18 and above.

The survey has a ±3% margin of error at a 95% confidence level. Subnational estimates for geographic areas covered in the survey have the following margins of error at a 95% confidence level: ±6% for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, and Visayas

‘Halt passing on systems loss charges’

Economists back administration proposals

Economists also backed the administration’s proposals while urging prudent implementation.

Reyes Tacandong & Co. senior adviser Jonathan Ravelas said Mr. Marcos’ review of flood control projects and recovery of misused public funds sends a strong anti-corruption signal but warned that governance reforms should not slow economic growth.

Tax relief package, nuke energy eyed

33 percent in Class D. Regarding dissatisfaction, it was highest in Mindanao at 48 percent and ranged from 26 percent to 32 percent.

The survey, on the other hand, also revealed that about 47 percent of Filipino adults trust Duterte, a significant eight-percentage-point decline from the 55 percent recorded in March 2026.

OCTA noted that this is her lowest national trust rating in the available trend series and places her below the majority trust for the first time since November 2024.

In major regions, distrust of Duterte was strongest in the NCR (47 percent) and Balance Luzon (44 percent), compared to 28 percent in the Visayas and 4 percent in Mindanao.

By socioeconomic class, distrust was highest in Class ABC at 42 percent, followed by Class D at 33 percent and Class E at 24 percent.

In terms of trust levels, distrust reached a majority in NCR at 61 percent, and stood at 48 percent in Balance Luzon, 25 percent in the Visayas, and 4 percent in Mindanao.

By socioeconomic class, dissatisfaction was highest in Class ABC at

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‘Most flood control response falls short’

By Katrina Manubay

O

NLY one in ten Filipinos believes the Marcos administration has done enough to address alleged anomalies in flood control projects over the past year. The overwhelming majority said the government’s response has either been insufficient or has failed to hold those involved accountable, according to the inaugural National Momentum Survey.

DANCE COMPETITION. Junior division dancers display precision, athleticism, and artistry during the Manila Open 2026 Dancesport Competition at the MRB District 2 Gymnasium in Commonwealth, Quezon City. The event brings together young competitors from across the country. Richmond T. Chi

IN BRIEF Sandiganbayan orders arrest of party-list solon Cebu adopts new child protection rules MANDAUE CITY—Cebu has officially adopted the National Protection Protocol, the country’s updated guidelines for handling cases of child abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination, during a ceremonial launch and signing held July 17 in Mandaue City.

Department of Justice Secretary Frederick Vida said the move reaffirms the government’s commitment to keeping child protection at the forefront of policymaking and public service. Cebu is the second province, after Cavite, to implement the revised Protocol for the Case Management of Child Victims of Abuse, Neglect, Exploitation, and Discrimination (CANE+D).

The rollout comes as child rights violations remain high nationwide.

Philippine National Police data showed 18,089 reported cases in 2024, while the Department of Justice handled about 2.72 million cyber tip-line reports involving online child sexual abuse and exploitation. Minerva Newman

Benguet intensifies ASF info campaign LA TRINIDAD, Benguet—The municipal government has intensified its information campaign against African Swine Fever (ASF) to encourage hog raisers to strengthen farm biosecurity amid the continuing threat of the disease.

Mayor Roderick Awingan issued Executive Order 94-2026 directing the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist to conduct an intensive information drive and requiring barangay officials to closely monitor backyard hog farms.

The order also mandates inspections of public markets, meat shops, supermarkets, and other meat establishments to ensure pork products comply with national and local health standards. It likewise bans the unregulated transport of live hogs and pork products without the required permits and veterinary certificates. Dexter See

By Maricel V. Cruz THE Sandiganbayan Third Division on Monday issued a warrant of arrest and a hold departure order against Uswag Ilonggo partylist Rep. Jojo Ang in connection with his graft case involving infrastructure projects.

“After a careful review of the resolution and its supporting documents, as well as the re-

cords, the court finds that probable cause exists in this case, pursuant to Section 5, Rule 112 of the Revised Rules of Criminal Procedure,” the court said in a separate resolution.

Over the weekend, the Sandiganbayan confirmed the Ombudsman’s filing of cases against Ang and former Sultan Kudarat 2nd District Rep. Arnulfo Go, who are facing 14 counts of graft

DILG issues guidelines for PBBM grassroots plan

DOG PARK AT QC.

Emotional support dogs Booba and Babs try out the newly opened Dog Park at the Quezon Memorial Circle, where they enjoy its play areas and facilities alongside fellow canine visitor Nisit.

The park offers fur parents and their pets a dedicated space for recreation and exercise.

By Vince Lopez THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Monday issued the implementing guidelines for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Bawat Barangay Makikinabang Program (BBMP), paving the way for its nationwide rollout to strengthen grassroots governance, support college students, and address development needs in more than 42,000 barangays.

Under DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2026-038, each barangay will receive P200,000 from the Office of the President through the Socio-Civic Projects Funds Project.

Half of the allocation, or P100,000, will fund the Bagong Pilipinas Barangay Scholars Program, under which each barangay will select five incoming fourth-year college students for School Year 2026-2027 to receive a P20,000 “Finisher Fund” for educational expenses.

Beneficiaries must be bona fide residents of the barangay and belong to vulnerable households at risk of dropping out of school.

Preference will be given to students whose families have no college graduates. Barangays may adopt additional eligibility requirements, provided these are properly documented and implemented fairly and transparently.

The remaining P100,000 will support barangay development priorities, including the purchase of public service, office, street lighting, and disaster risk reduction equipment. The funds may not be used for infrastructure projects, honoraria, salaries, wages, or other personnel-related expenses.

Padilla leads Pulse Asia Senate survey; Sotto says he won’t run

Taguig cops arrest 3 in suitcase killing POLICE have arrested three suspects in connection with the killing of a woman whose body was found inside a garbage bag and stuffed into a suitcase recovered from floodwaters in the Tanyag River in Barangay Tanyag, Taguig City on July 24.

Taguig police chief Col. Julius Añonuevo said investigators identified the victim through follow-up investigation and traced the crime scene with the help of concerned citizens. The victim, identified only by the alias “Estrella,” was allegedly killed by her live-in partner and the partner’s friend inside a house in the same barangay.

Police searched the house and recovered a sack believed to have been used to conceal the body, along with a dress with suspected bloodstains, blood on the floor, and strands of hair. Three suspects identified only as Raymundo, Willy, and Reynaldo were arrested, while suspected drug paraphernalia were also seized. Vince Lopez

and two counts each of graft and malversation, respectively.

The Ombudsman earlier investigated Ang and Tarlac 3rd District Rep. Noel Rivera over their alleged ownership of construction companies that were awarded government contracts.

The cases have been raffled among the Sandiganbayan’s First, Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Divisions.

In the latest poll, results showed that most Filipinos consider the administration’s efforts to address the flood control corruption scandal either “insufficient” (43 percent) or “lacking” (41 percent), with only four percent unsure and one percent declining to answer.

Dissatisfaction was more pronounced in Mindanao at 61 percent across major areas, followed by Metro Manila (43 percent), Visayas (40 percent), and the Rest of Luzon (31 percent).

In contrast, nearly half of Filipino respondents in Metro Manila (48 percent), the Rest of Luzon (49 percent), and Visayas (46 percent) said the Marcos Jr. administration had made some effort to hold those responsible for the flood control anomalies accountable over the past year, but described that effort as “insufficient”.

The survey also revealed that satisfaction with the administration’s response remained low across all regions, with 14 percent in the Rest of Luzon, nine percent in Visayas, and eight percent in Metro Manila.

Momentum Research Founder and CEO Cleve Arguelles, a political scientist, said the survey findings indicate a public that, while giving the administration some credit for taking action, largely believes it has fallen short of what the flood control scandal demands.

“The latest survey data suggests that while many Filipinos recognize the Marcos administration has taken steps to respond to the flood control scandal, a larger public sentiment is that more could have been done,” he said.

Momentum Research found that self-identified Pro-Marcos respondents were the only group where a plurality expressed some satisfaction.

However, even among them, more said the effort had fallen short (46 percent) than those who said it was enough (42 percent).

In contrast, Pro-Duterte respondents were the most critical of the administration, with only 2% saying its efforts to curb corruption in flood-control projects were adequate.

By Katrina Manubay

FOR CHILD PROTECTION. Department of Justice Undersecretary Majken Anika Gran-Ong, Cebu Provincial Board members Stanley Caminero and Neneth Reluya, municipal mayors and vice mayors, and regional heads of national law enforcement agencies sign a shared Wall of Commitment, pledging to enforce child protection protocols across Cebu’s cities and municipalities.

Around a third of the candidates included in the July 2026 Ulat ng Bayan electoral survey, 17 of 53, have a statistical chance of winning a Senate seat, with most being former or incumbent lawmakers, according to Pulse Asia.

The survey showed Senator Robin Padilla leading with 48.4 percent (first to second place), followed closely by Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto with 47.9 percent (first to third place).

Despite placing near the top of the survey, Sotto reiterated that he will not run for higher office in 2028.

“Not really. Let’s not talk about that anymore. I’m just not interested... I have zero interest in running for high-

er office,” Sotto told ABS-CBN on Monday. He had already announced in 2025 that he would not seek a higher elected position in 2028.

Other leading contenders were Senator Raffy Tulfo (43.9 percent, second to fifth), Senator Alan Peter Cayetano (43.2 percent, third to fifth), Senator Loren Legarda (40.3 percent, third to fifth), former Senator Manny Pacquiao (35.6 percent, sixth to seventh), and Makati Mayor Nancy Binay (32.4 percent, sixth to seventh).

The face-to-face survey was conducted from June 28 to July 3 and on July 6 among 2,400 respondents aged 18 and above. It has a ±2 percent margin of error at the 95 percent confidence level.

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TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026

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Bernos blasts Aeta land turned into dumpsite

By Maricel V. Cruz AN administration lawmaker on Monday called for greater protection of indigenous peoples’ ancestral domains following a documentary that showed part of an Aeta community in Subic, Zambales being used as a dumpsite.

“Respect, don’t desecrate indigenous peoples’ ancestral domain,” Solid North Party-list Rep. Ching Bernos said in a statement.

Bernos, vice chairperson of the House committee on indigenous cultural communities and indigenous peoples, issued the statement after the television documentary “Ibinasurang Paraiso” featured the conditions in Sitio Tibag, an Aeta community in Subic.

“The deplorable conversion of ancestral domains for the convenience of others must stop. Let us respect and not desecrate the ancestral domain of our IPs. May karapatan po sila na mamuhay nang tahimik, ligtas, at hindi ginagambala ng iba (They have the right to live in peace, in safety, and free from interference by others),” Bernos said.

“Our indigenous peoples have the right to live peaceful, safe, and undisturbed lives,” she added.

The documentary reported that a portion of the mountain in Sitio Tibag had been used as a dumpsite by the Subic local government since 2019.

According to Bernos, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources investigated the matter in 2022 and later issued a cease-and-desist order against the Subic local government in 2025.

The lawmaker urged the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples to determine whether similar incidents of encroachment have occurred in other ances-

BURNHAM PARK GLOW-UP. The newly rehabilitated Burnham Park, one of Baguio City’s iconic tourist destinations, is set to reopen during Baguio Day (Charter Day) celebrations on Sept. 1, marking the city’s 117th charter anniversary. Dave Leprozo

Tagle to Catholics: Reject gossip C

By Vito Barcelo

ARDINAL Luis Antonio Tagle has urged young Catholics to reject gossip, saying it quietly destroys friendships and should never be mistaken for genuine friendship.

tral domains.

IN BRIEF ‘Kiyapo’ aid reaches P10 million, says OCD THE Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Monday said the government and its partners have distributed about P10 million worth of assistance to families affected by Tropical Storm Kiyapo.

According to the latest National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council situational report, 6,617 families in the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Cordillera Administrative Region, Western Visayas, and Soccsksargen received assistance.

The aid included family food packs, shelter repair kits, sleeping kits, kitchen kits, plastic mats, and financial assistance.

In a separate message, OCD information officer Diego Mariano said 31 evacuation centers remain operational, sheltering about 1,760 families or 7,550 individuals.

Mariano said Tropical Storm Kiyapo affected 63,606 families, equivalent to about 295,066 people. Rex Espiritu

Free shuttle services in Cavite City, Noveleta THE local governments of Cavite City and Noveleta on Monday launched a free shuttle service to help commuters affected by traffic caused by an ongoing Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) project in San Rafael, Noveleta.

The free shuttle service will operate from Monday to Friday, from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., while the DPWH completes the road project.

The service is intended to provide faster transportation for workers, students, and other commuters during peak hours while roadworks continue.

Noveleta Mayor Davey Chua said designated pick-up and drop-off points are at Pop Cafe (Uno Gas Station) in Sta. Cruz, Cavite City, and the Kawit Fire Station in PotolSta. Isabel. The shuttle route passes through Novelex (Ilang-Ilang Drive), allowing commuters to bypass congestion at Noveleta Crossing.

The route is expected to benefit commuters traveling from Cavite City to the Kawit Fire Station, including students, EPZA workers, and passengers bound for Manila.

Dennis Abrina

C

Speaking at a youth gathering during the 12th Philippine Conference on New Evangelization on Sunday at the University of Santo Tomas, Tagle said a true friend does not spread gossip, lies, or harmful content.

“If you receive gossip, bias, lies, violent and destructive content, the one who sent you that is not a friend,” said Tagle, pro-prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization.

He said people who constantly criticize others are likely to do the same to their own friends and urged young peo-

ple to recognize such behavior early.

Tagle said gossip erodes trust, while love, acceptance, and kindness help strengthen and restore relationships.

He added that people who feel accepted are more likely to become faithful friends.

Citing the Gospel of John, Tagle said Jesus called His disciples friends because He shared sacred truths with them rather than idle talk, emphasizing that true friendship is founded on truth and love.

He encouraged young people to

ages Catholics to accompany one another more intentionally in their faith journey.

The conference also highlighted the Church’s ongoing synodal process, emphasizing “relational conversion” through stronger collaboration among clergy, religious, and lay communities.

Tagle described the Eucharist as a “school of relational conversion,” calling on participants to see communion with Christ as the foundation of evangelization.

Youth formation was another major focus, with organizers introducing sessions on mental health, discrimination, parenting in the digital age, and leadership ahead of the conference’s all-youth day.

Church leaders said the expanded program aims to equip young Catholics to play a more active role in the New Evangelization.

Partas bus gets banned 30 days for Busway crash

By Rio N. Araja THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has suspended for 30 days the operations of a Partas Transportation Co. Inc. bus that crashed into concrete and plastic barriers along the EDSA Busway near the corner of Quezon Avenue in Quezon City.

LTFRB Chairperson Vigor Mendoza II said the agency has issued a show cause order against the bus operator following the crash, which occurred at about 3:30 a.m. on July 26.

“In this case, we will be looking at either employment of reckless drivers or the workload of the drivers. We want to know all the details and this will come out during the course of the investigation,” Mendoza said.

Based on the initial investigation, the bus was traveling southbound from the EDSA-Quezon Avenue Flyover toward Timog Avenue when it struck the barriers.

Investigators said the driver allegedly fell asleep behind the wheel, causing the crash.

Mendoza said the incident constitutes a violation of existing public transport safety regulations and falls under reckless driving.

BICYCLE DONATION. Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko’ Moreno Domagoso receives 30 bicycles donated by the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) for the Manila Police District’s Tourist Bike Patrol in Manila.

Norman Cruz

Culiat Bridge reopens to light vehicles after 2 weeks of repairs

Army names Babilonia Training Command head BRIG. Gen. Lennon Babilonia has assumed office as acting commander of the Philippine Army’s Education and Training Command (ETC), succeeding Lt. Gen. Michael Logico, who has taken over the leadership of the Philippine Military Academy.

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Antonio Nafarrete presided over the change of command ceremony at Camp O’Donnell in Capas, Tarlac, on July 24.

Before his designation, Babilonia served as deputy commander of the Education and Training Command, formerly known as the Training Command.

In his keynote address, Nafarrete underscored the command’s role in developing the Army’s soldiers and future leaders.

“The Education and Training Command holds a unique and profound responsibility in our Philippine Army. You are the source of our professional standards and the developers of our leaders now and in the future,” he said. Rex Espiritu

choose friends who value honesty and loyalty over rumors, saying genuine friendship means accepting others without judgment, gossip, or rejection.

The conference continued to explore its theme, “Sangkáy: I Have Called You Friends,” focusing on how authentic Christian friendship can strengthen communion and mission amid growing social polarization, digital noise, and rapid societal change.

Speakers urged Catholics to rebuild relationships rooted in Christ and foster deeper personal and community ties.

Sessions also examined the challenges of forming meaningful relationships in the digital age, with panelists discussing how technology, including artificial intelligence-driven communication, has reshaped human interaction and made genuine friendship more difficult to cultivate.

Organizers said the theme encour-

By Vito Barcelo

FREE SHUTTLE. Passengers avail of the free shuttle service launched by the local governments of Cavite City and Noveleta for commuters affected by the ongoing DPWH road project in San Rafael, Noveleta. The service operates on weekdays from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dennis Abrina

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Monday reopened Culiat Bridge II along Congressional Avenue in Quezon City to light vehicles, restoring access to one of the city’s busiest roads after two weeks of emergency repairs.

The bridge was closed after a fire beneath the structure caused the asphalt pavement to buckle, prompting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to direct the DPWH to undertake immediate rehabilitation work.

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said the repairs were completed through coordination between the DPWH and the Quezon City government.

“This is a very high-volume traffic corridor, and we understand the inconvenience experienced by motorists.

Through our collaboration with the Quezon City local government, we were able to complete the repairs in just two weeks,” Dizon said.

He said only light vehicles will be allowed to use the bridge while engineers continue to monitor its condition and complete the remaining safety assessments before permitting heavier vehicles to pass.

Dizon said the accelerated repairs were carried out in compliance with President Marcos’ directive for government agencies to respond quickly to infrastructure-related incidents and minimize disruptions to the public.

The reopening is expected to ease traffic congestion along Congressional Avenue, a major thoroughfare used daily by thousands of motorists in northern Quezon City.

OPINION

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TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

The -7 illusion THE champagne corks are popping in Malacañang. The June 2026 Social Weather Stations survey has arrived, and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s net satisfaction rating has soared from a historic low of -15 “Poor” to a breathtaking -7 “Neutral.” Cue the press releases and the collective amnesia.

Let us be brutally clear: a -7 rating is being peddled as a comeback story. The administration is asking Filipinos to celebrate that their President is merely “neutral,” having scraped out of the “poor” gutter. This is the political equivalent of a student raising a grade from F to D-minus and demanding a graduation ceremony. The unspun truth: 45 percent of Filipinos remain dissatisfied, a clear plurality over the 38 percent who are satisfied. This is not recovery. It is a patient whose fever dropped from 104 to 102, still burning with infection.

The survey’s most devastating finding is not the topline number but the classperception question, which reveals a structural indictment that a single quarter of disinflation could never paper over.

In December 2022, a honeymoon-era 54 percent of Filipinos believed Marcos served the poor. That figure has collapsed by nearly one-third to a paltry 35 percent. Where did those believers migrate? They swelled the ranks of those who correctly see the administration as a concierge service for oligarchs. The “serves the rich” perception has nearly doubled, from 23 percent to a commanding 43 percent. This is a slow-motion catastrophe for an administration that campaigned on unity and uplift. Temporary relief from peak inflation acted like a spoonful of sugar, helping the masses momentarily swallow the bitter pill of their own immiseration. The sugar rush is fading, and the chronic malady of a government working for the one percent is now the dominant diagnosis.

This is not a national recovery; it is a national divorce. Marcos is “moderate” in his Balance Luzon heartland but remains profoundly reviled in Mindanao, where he sits at a dismal -35. That is hostile territory, a permanent scar from the Duterte family feud. The rebound is a Potemkin village.

Perhaps the most chilling omen is hidden in the age demographics. While working-age adults, momentarily grateful for slower inflation, drove the modest improvement, the nation’s youth delivered a damning verdict. Satisfaction among the 18-to-24 cohort crashed 10 points backward to a brutal -27. This is the generation that will inherit crushing

national debt and simmering geopolitical crises, and they have already mentally checked out on the man in Malacañang.

So, what was the secret sauce of this fleeting bounce? A dash of easing inflation after a historic spike, a pinch of statistical mean reversion, and a heaping tablespoon of public attention diverted by the Duterte impeachment circus. The administration is like a magician who tripped over his own feet, landed with a loud thud, and then stood up to take a bow, calling the accident a choreographed finale. The undead flood-control scandal, the health-rumor fiasco—these are not resolved crises. They are problems the public has grown exhausted from hearing about. Fatigue is not forgiveness.

—“—

This is why Marcos Jr.’s ratings bounce is a political mirage.

This -7 is not an upturn; it is a precarious resting point while the underlying pathology—a perception of profound class bias—goes untreated. The administration will take a victory lap, selectively quoting this poll while ignoring its structural warnings, just as it once dismissed the polls that showed it floundering. This is governance by public relations, a cynical game of managing sentiment rather than solving problems.

If there is a path forward, it lies in a radical, and highly improbable, pivot.

Instead of merely suspending fuel excise taxes during an inflation spike, enact the long-stalled wage reforms that would permanently shift the “serves the poor” needle. Instead of general denials of kickback allegations, commission a truly independent forensic audit of flood control funds that ends in an orange jumpsuit for someone whose name is not just a convenient fall guy. Place a billion-peso flood-control project in a poor barangay in Mindanao, not just another flyover in a congressman’s district.

But we know better. Genuine propeople governance requires choosing the 35 percent over the 43 percent, and that is class treason no elite politician will attempt. Marcos’s -7 is not a second wind; it is the political equivalent of being dead and not knowing it yet. The public has not rallied to his side. They have simply run out of the energy required for active fury. That is not a mandate. It is just a deeper, more cynical sigh.

Make smoking cool again?

Pop culture reboots the vice

By Raphaëlle Peltier NEW YORK — From beauty mogul Kylie Jenner lighting up on the cover of Vanity Fair to cigarette trays at singer Dua Lipa’s wedding, the pop cultureverse has rebooted cigarettes as the accessory du jour, health risks be damned.

Smoking rates are at a six-decade low among American adults and the lowest in a quarter-century among youth.

And yet, searches for the term “smoking pose” on the image-sharing platform Pinterest have soared 70 percent among 18- to 24-year-olds, according to Style Analytics, a fashion world data tracker.

On Instagram, the account “Cigfluencers” shares images of celebrities smoking -- “your favorite smoker’s favorite smokers,” reads the tagline.

The posts included a number of shots snapped in May at the Met Gala, the annual gathering of A-listers in New York.

Even though current US smoking statistics don’t show an increase in the actual habit, making cigarettes chic again has triggered concern among antismoking advocates.

“Pop culture’s glamorization of smoking is just reigniting the addiction among young people and discouraging those trying to quit,” Jessica Rath, vice president at the anti-tobacco advocacy group Truth Initiative, told AFP. ‘Highly concerning’ The organization noted that eight of the 10 feature films nominated for this year’s best picture Oscar contained images of tobacco use.

This type of exposure makes young people two to three times more likely to use tobacco products, Rath said.

Brian King, head of US programs at the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, said the trend is “highly concerning from a public health perspective.”

One explanation for the resurgence is the return of aesthetics from the 1990s and early 2000s -- an era when smok-

ing was still quite common in the United States.

The look was all over the recent popular series “Love Story,” a show that detailed the storied relationship of the late John F. Kennedy Jr and Carolyn Bessette -- the latter was a regular smoker and was portrayed as such on the show.

The brand strategy newsletter On Brand has dubbed the smoker’s aesthetic an act of rebellion against the social media pressures of “self-optimization.”

And it’s all set, of course, against a backdrop of economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

—“—

This exposure makes young people two to three times more likely to use tobacco products, the advocacy group said.

“Right now, we’re also having kind of a colliding mental health crisis with young people,” said Rath.

“And so young people are thinking that using nicotine is helping their feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress -- when really it could be making it worse.”

King noted that public attention has shifted away from the risks associated with conventional cigarettes, as e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products and nicotine pouches grow in popularity.

“In some cases, we as society have been recalcitrant in terms of remembering those risks, and also importantly implementing policies that we know work to prevent the use of these products,” King said.

L

How are you doing, Senator Pia?

OOKING at and listening to Senator Pia Cayetano these days is deeply troubling.

A few weeks ago, at the height of the leadership crisis at the Senate, she took her colleagues to task for not checking up on her and her allies in the then-majority amid the shooting incident at the Senate building.

She burst into tears narrating how she had feared for her life when the Senate came “under attack.”

It was later on revealed that the shots came from none other than the Senate security officer.

When the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte began, Cayetano unabashedly showed her true colors right away. She spoke imperiously and sounded high and mighty, taking pride in being a product of the University of the Philippines College of Law and saying she has the duty to simplify things for the benefit of the public.

But her demeanor has only been baffling, if not cringe-worthy.

During last week’s trial, Ms. Cayetano insisted that the legal principles in the landmark case Stonehill versus Diokno, specifically those that pertained to warrants of arrest, were comparable to subpoena being issued in the current case. Often she forgot that she had to at least feign

ManilaStandard

ONLINE

By Bhuvan Bagga GURDASPUR, INDIA — At a Sikh temple in India’s Punjab state, a crowd gathered to watch a film that has drawn authorities’ ire, recounting the horrors surrounding a separatist insurgency in the 1980s-90s.

The film, “Satluj”, tells the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a rights activist allegedly tortured and killed by police in 1995 after having investigated thousands of cases of disappearances and presumed extrajudicial killings during a brutal government crackdown in the state.

Viewers showed up for a screening in the temple courtyard in Gurdaspur district even as officials have accused director Honey Trehan of distorting history, and after the film was taken down from online platforms within 48 hours of its release.

For some in the crowd, it was an act of defiance, seeking to preserve the memory of what many regard as one of the darkest chapters in Punjab’s history.

“It has shown us all that we didn’t know, and which our government wants to keep hidden,” Shamsher Singh, 32, told AFP after his second time watching “Satluj”.

While authorities have not officially announced any actions against the film or its distribution, a rumoured ban has sparked anger.

“The government bans anything that is good,” said Singh.

But the alleged restrictions have also fuelled an interest in watching the film, with Sikh groups hosting screenings in temple courtyards, community halls and village squares across Punjab.

“We’ve been organising at least five ‘De-normalize smoking’ US President Donald Trump’s administration has made significant cuts to smoking prevention and cessation support programs.

And the previous administration under Joe Biden backed off its plan to ban menthol cigarettes, which are popular among young people.

King said that in the US, the tobacco industry spends the equivalent of approximately $1 million an hour on marketing and promotion.

Nonprofits and anti-smoking organi-

PPI

Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

The senator-judge seems mired in an identity crisis. expeditions. Diokno’s words were shamelessly edited to make them sound as though he was conceding that they did not yet have solid proof against Ms. Duterte.

Anyone familiar with content produced by trolls would spot their trademark style in the video posted

by Senator Pia. The words were on high speed. There was background music and accompanying laughter sounds. At one point, the words “Allan is about to school Jokeno” on the side.

such screenings each evening,” said Inderpal Singh Bains, a farmer leader who is behind the Gurdaspur temple event.

“Such is the craze that we have a long waitlist, with many villages still waiting” for a screening, he said.

Disappeared without a trace Punjab state in the 1980s and early 1990s was a violent battleground between Indian authorities and armed backers of “Khalistan”, a conservative separatist movement that sought an independent homeland for the Sikh community.

Thousands of civilians, police and militants were killed as security forces battled separatists, who enforced strict religious codes and targeted political opponents, according to rights groups.

In 1984, the Indian army carried out a raid against insurgents hiding in the Golden Temple in Amritsar -- the holiest site in Sikhism -- sparking anger among faithful.

The prime minister at the time, Indira Gandhi, was then killed by her Sikh bodyguards, leading to mass riots which killed some 3,000 people.

For Harjinder Kaur, whose separatist father was killed in fighting in 1991, the film is a painful reminder of the open wounds in her family history.

Kaur’s mother and two uncles are believed to have been arrested two years

after her father’s death, and have not been seen again since.

“My father, of course, paid for his actions, but I am pained for my uncles and mother who had no fault,” she told AFP, their fate unclear despite police saying they would be released.

‘Disputed claims’ According to figures presented in “Satluj”, an estimated 25,000 people were abducted and killed during the unrest.

The film shines a light on such incidents, following activist Khalra’s investigation before his own abduction.

But critics say it offers a selective retelling of history.

Ravneet Singh Bittu, from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party of Hindu nationalist Prime Minister Narendra Modi, argued that “’Satluj’ cannot hide behind the excuse of ‘creative freedom’ while presenting disputed claims as established history”.

“Punjab’s painful past is not a script to be selectively edited to suit a narrative,” said Bittu, whose grandfather Beant Singh was Punjab’s chief minister before being assassinated in 1995.

Trehan, the director, told AFP that his film “depicted the truth”, adding that he had received overwhelming “love and appreciation” for it.

He cited speeches by Khalra himself “talking about 25,000 people who were abducted and killed”.

Rajiv Singh Randhawa, a key witness in Khalra’s abduction case, said criticism of “Satluj” was overblown.

“One movie can’t threaten the state or an individual,” he told AFP at his home in Amritsar, adding that “the ban has already taken Khalra’s story to millions” of viewers. AFP

zations lack data on how tobacco companies might be pushing the “cigfluencer” phenomenon.

But it’s critical, King said, that the United States works to “de-normalize smoking” in the face of such trends.

Society must “not be doing anything that could potentially reverse the considerable progress that we’ve made in reducing smoking over many decades,” he said.

Along with traditional methods of discouraging smoking -- public service messaging, cessation support, price hikes, and smoking bans -- Rath recom-

mends working with platforms and Hollywood to discourage the habit.

She suggests displaying on-screen messages directing viewers to support services, similar to those already in use to prevent suicide or assist those suffering sexual violence.

“Shows also have the power to reduce tobacco depictions and incorporate realistic quitting examples into storylines,” said Truth Initiative, noting recent depictions in “The Bear” of the main character working to quit smoking using nicotine replacement therapy. AFP

—“—

The director has been accused of distorting history.

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser

Emil P. Jurado+ Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

ROLANDO G. ESTABILLO Publisher

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MEMBER

—“—

The video was obviously intended for an audience that had not had the opportunity to watch the actual trial, or comprehend what was being said.

Those who have seen the day’s exchange would know that the splicing mangled the context and twisted the message. On the contrary, it was the Cayetano siblings who were schooled by Diokno that day, in his magnificently calm and respectful manner, on the issue of subpoenas and fishing expeditions.

What self-respecting lawyer and self-styled champion of women’s rights would resort to patent disinformation? What proper senatorjudge would actively use one’s social media platform to malign a litigant?

Has Senator Pia really stooped that low just so she could defend a political ally? Alas, her words and actions have manifested that she is unfit to be a senator-judge, and that she lacks the scruples to remain as a lawyer.

Such behavior by a nationally elected official coincides tragically with a Pulse Asia survey that says 33% of Filipinos use their personal beliefs in deciding what online information to accept or take seriously. This finding is something that government officials must address with urgency, not encourage.

Out of genuine concern, someone must ask how Senator Pia is doing.

She seems mired in an identity crisis, not knowing whether she is a duly elected lawmaker and now a senator judge, or just another troll.

Film recounting bloody Punjab crackdown caught in India’s crosshairs

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno

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impartiality and try a bit of courtesy because she was a senator-judge.

This weekend, Ms. Cayetano outdid herself. She posted on her Facebook wall a spliced video captioned “Nagbabakasakali lang. Walang mga ebidensiya pero nag-aakusa na.

(Taking their chances. They have no evidence but they are making accusations)” pertaining to the prosecution team’s efforts in presenting documentary proof of the Vice President’s wrongdoing.

The video was composed of bits and pieces from the actual exchange between Cayetano’s brother, Senator Alan, and prosecutor Rep. Chel Diokno on the issue of so-called fishing

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Iran halts strikes, Trump gives space to talks T

EHRAN — Iran and the United States held their fire Monday, handing Gulf shipping and the oil industry a respite from missile strikes as Donald Trump’s UN envoy said the president was “giving talks some space.”

FOR THE FALLEN. People gather as candles are lit in front of landmark Brandenburg Gate illuminated in rainbow colors and bearing the inscription ‘Berlin, City of Freedom’ after a car ramming attack on people on the outskirts of Berlin’s Christopher Street Day (CSD) parade on late July 25, 2026, killing one person and injuring 29 in the Tiergarten park. German police shot and killed the chief suspect in what officials described as a deadly Islamist attack. AFP

IN BRIEF France, Spain battle ‘monster’ wildfires Sokor ex-president found guilty of election disinfo SEOUL — A South Korean court handed jailed ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol an 18-month suspended sentence on Monday for spreading disinformation in his 2022 election campaign before his martial law bid.

The Seoul Central District Court ruling could see South Korea’s main opposition People Power Party (PPP), which Yoon represented, forced to pay 39.7 billion won (US$29 million) to the election commission if it is upheld on appeal.

It could also see Yoon’s 2022 electoral win nullified, a largely symbolic blow for the disgraced ex-leader who is already serving a life sentence for insurrection.

Yoon declared martial law in December 2024, ordering troops to shut parliament, before MPs rallied to vote it down after just six hours and oust him.

The 65-year-old and his close cohorts have since been prosecuted in a hail of criminal cases.

Monday’s sentence, suspended for three years, was handed down by judges who found Yoon guilty of twin violations of polling legislation by making false statements on the 2022 election trail. AFP

BORDEAUX — Firefighters battled massive blazes tearing through forests across France and Spain Monday, as authorities warned of a fresh heatwave set to engulf the scorched French wine-growing region around the major city of Bordeaux.

More than 325,000 people have fled their homes, mostly in the Gironde department, home to Bordeaux, as some of the worst forest fires in either country’s history rage across southwest France and central Spain near Madrid.

France’s fire has caused an unprecedented “pyrocumulonimbus” – a giant fire cloud that creates its own winds and packs lightning that causes more blazes, said the National Firefighters Federation of France (FNSPF).

“It’s a David-versus-Goliath scenario...

at some point, we’ll find a weak spot and strike there,” said FNSPF spokesman Eric Brocardi.

French President Emmanuel Macron will hold a crisis cabinet meeting to discuss the emergency on Monday morning.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez will visit fire-hit areas in Valencia, in the east of the country on Monday where firefighters are battling a new blaze and where 15,000 people have been forced to flee their homes.

On Sunday, during a visit to the fire zone in Avila province west of Madrid, he warned: “Difficult hours lie ahead.”

Spain’s Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska said Sunday evening the fires were advancing, but slowly.

Earlier Sunday, civil protection chief

Virginia Barcones, describing the fire around Avila, said the country was battling a “monster”.

“We are dealing with a perimeter of 280 kilometers encompassing 77,000 hectares (190,000 acres),” Barcones told state broadcaster TVE of the wildfire.

Scientists say climate change is making such extreme weather events more frequent and intense.

Coming at the height of the summer holiday season, the fires were fueled by woodland parched to tinder by successive heatwaves and lack of rain since May. In France, the prefect of the southwestern Gironde region and where the country’s fires are concentrated, urged tourists to stay away and seek “other destinations.”

AFP

Top Nokor official blasts ASEAN for denuclearization SEOUL — The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attacked the bloc of Southeast Asian nations on Monday for seeking a denuclearized Korean peninsula, blasting the position as “stupid and foolish.”

At its annual regional forum last week, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) expressed “grave concern” over Pyongyang’s ongoing nuclear weapons development and stressed the importance of dialogue “to realize lasting peace and stability in a denuclearized Korean Peninsula.”

North Korea has long insisted on its right to nuclear weapon and ballistic missile programs, although they are forbidden under the terms of UN Security Council sanctions. It enshrined its nuclear status in its constitution in 2023. AFP

Far-right Aussie politician loses appeal in racism case SYDNEY — A popular far-right Australian politician failed on Monday to overturn a racial vilification finding that was handed down after she told a Muslim senator to go back to Pakistan.

Senator Pauline Hanson has emerged as one of Australia’s most popular politicians, wooing voters with calls for strict immigration curbs, mass deportations of “illegal migrants” and enhanced free speech protections.

Hanson took aim at Pakistan-born Australian lawmaker Mehreen Faruqi in 2022 over comments made in the wake of Queen Elizabeth II’s death.

Faruqi, a left-leaning Greens senator, said she could not mourn the “leader of a racist empire built on stolen lives, land and wealth of colonized people.”

Hanson replied on social media: “When you immigrated to Australia you took every advantage of this country. AFP

WORSENING SITUATION. Two firefighters’ helmets and a fire hose are pictured on the ground as a forest fire rages in SaintJean-d’Illac, some 30 kilometers from Bordeaux as a wildfire has been ravaging the forest north of the Arcachon Basin in France. The 220,000 people evacuated due to the massive wildfire will not be able to return home ‘until the fire has been brought under control,’ the local prefect said. AFP

Tehran said it had halted retaliatory attacks against Washington’s allies in the Middle East, and US ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz told “Fox News Sunday” that, while forces remained “locked and loaded,” Trump would give negotiations “a little bit of room.”

Fighting over the strategic Strait of Hormuz derailed diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran, triggering a US air campaign and Iranian reprisals that expanded the conflict to shipping lanes, Gulf allies and military bases across the region.

Prior to Friday, the US military had carried out strikes on Iran for 13 consecutive nights, in the largest rekindling of the almost five-month-old war since an April ceasefire. But Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights passed without bombing.

“Since... our strategy has essentially been retaliatory, we have also halted our retaliatory operations,” said Iran’s army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia.

Oil prices tumbled on Monday as investors breathed cautious sighs of relief at the pause in combat.

The price of a barrel of international benchmark North Sea Brent crude shed more than seven percent at one point early Monday to briefly drop back below $90, while US counterpart West Texas Intermediate was down four percent at $85.45 a barrel.

Unconfirmed Iranian media reports on Sunday said an oil tanker had been damaged by a sea mine.

The lull has revived hopes of a return to negotiations, although American media reported the pause could also reflect pressure on US stockpiles of Patriot interceptors and other defensive weapons. AFP

New AI tools let readers question, talk to books

NEW YORK – Imagine a world where you could ask a book a question as you read it.

That’s the pitch from a wave of new AI tools letting readers do exactly that.

“You are dealing with a book as if it is a living object – it’s totally different,” says Ahmed Kamel, CEO of Sinai.ai, a platform now in testing.

With these tools, users get access to an e-book or audiobook alongside an AI chatbot. Confused about a character’s motives or the historical setting? Just ask.

Readers can dig into a character’s psychology, historical context, or a philosophical concept -- no separate research required.

French startup My Smart Book launched something similar in mid-April.

Like Sinai, its chatbot draws only on the actual text of the book -- no outside information.

Even book-selling behemoth Amazon is in on it. Its audiobook company, Audible, launched a feature called “Ask a Question” last fall.

Mid-listen, you can tap a button, ask your question, hear the answer, and then pick up the story right where you left off.

“We’re excited about the potential for AI-powered features to enhance the customer experience,” an Audible spokesperson told AFP, adding the tool is “designed to answer questions specifically about the audiobook the listener is currently engaged with.” AFP

Mass shooting kills three, wounds four, including toddler, in Seattle

SEATTLE – A mass shooting near the Space Needle landmark in Seattle killed three people on Sunday and wounded at least four others, including a toddler, according to the police.

Seattle Police said one suspect has been arrested and they are searching for another following the incident at a food festival in a popular tourist district of the northwestern US city.

Assistant Police Chief Tyrone Davis said shots were heard around 6:00 pm (0100 GMT) and “there were two people who we believe were shooting at each other.” Two weapons were recovered.

There is “no outstanding threat to the community,” he said.

Seattle Police said three people had died.

Police said on X earlier Sunday there were “multiple shooting victims” after shots were fired at the Seattle Center.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson said State Patrol SWAT officers had been deployed to assist local police.

“My prayers are with the families of the victims, and the responders as they work to keep people safe,” he said on X. Mayor Katie Wilson said the shooting was “an act of horrific violence.”

“Our attention belongs to the people whose lives were taken, those fighting to recover, and the families beside them,” she said in a statement.

She also expressed her thanks to “the Seattle police officers who responded to the scene and took a suspect into custody.”

Four patients were being treated at the trauma center facility at Harborview Medical Center, according to spokesperson Susan Gregg: a child, a woman of unknown age who was in surgery, a 23-yearold man and a 39-year-old woman. AFP

CELEBRATION. Youth and students dance at the plaza of the Arch of Triumph to mark the 73rd anniversary of the end of the Korean War in Pyongyang on July 27, 2026. AFP

SPORTS

A7

TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026

New pro Koivun stuns Scheffler to win 3M Open

POC president Abraham Tolentino with PNVF board members and volleyball stakeholders

POC okays volleyball reforms, sets stage for fresh elections T

HE Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) has achieved the first step in solving the volleyball leadership crisis following the resignation of all members of the board of the suspended Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF).

“That’s the f irst step and they all agreed to resign,” Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said after the volleyball general assembly called by the POC on Monday mor ning at the Solaire Theater Board Room in

Parañaque City.

The POC is the “caretaker” of all national volleyball federation activities after the FIVB suspended the PNVF primarily on poor governance last May—this was preceded by a similar sanction by the Philippine Sports Commission

and followed by the POC. Also agreed upon was the creation of a new 13-member PNVF board that includes athletes’ representatives (beach volleyball for women and volleyball for men), as well as for the major collegiate leagues—UAAP and NCAA—to heed the call of the federation on the lending of their athletes to the national teams.

The position of chairman was also removed and the POC will have a seat in the board, and for the secretary-general will be appointed by the president during the assembly

attended by close to 40 former board members and stakeholders.

“This is to introduce inclusivity and, more importantly, that the stakeholders prioritize the call of the national team,” added Tolentino, who presided over the assembly with POC secretary-general Atty.

Wharton Chan.

All amendments on the PNVF constitution, Tolentino added, have been approved and that the POC will call for another assembly on August 10 to tackle the next steps toward fresh elections of the federation.

Jackson Koivun holds the championship trophy AFP

Agra, Barte reunite to capture Singapore Open pickleball title

By Randy M. Caluag FORMER tennis standouts Jessica Agra and Kevin Barte turned back the clock with a championship-winning reunion, capturing the Mixed Doubles 35+ (3.5 and above) gold medal at the PPA Asia Singapore Open 2026 held at the Singapore Expo.

The title marked Agra’s second gold medal on the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) circuit and her fourth podium finish in international competition.

Agra and Barte swept through the draw without dropping a match, beating Lauren Yeng and Reyor Ko in the quarterfinals, Pay Jyue Lo and Russel Arcilla in the semifinals, and Tian Yi Li and Nick Chan in the championship match. All three victories came via identical 1-0 scorelines.

The triumph carried added significance for Agra, who reunited with Barte, her longtime doubles and training partner during their junior tennis days.

“I’m really happy with the win today,” Agra said in a radio interview. “RK Barte

was my doubles partner and training partner in tennis when I was a junior, and it’s exciting that we were able to play together again in pickleball. I feel the most comfortable on the court with him by my side. It was fun, and I also knew he would fight for every point.”

She also expressed hope that their successful partnership would continue.

“Thank you so much, Bartayyy! Best feeling to play next to you. To many more,” Agra said.

The victory was made even more memorable as Agra’s entire family was present to witness the championship run.

“This one was special because Team Agra was complete. Best support system ever. Love you so much! None of this would be possible without your love and support,” she said in a social media post.

Agra now shifts her focus to the Pickleball World Cup in Vietnam at the end of August, along with upcoming tournaments on the PPA, APP and DJoy international circuits, as well as major local competitions.

Koivun took some of his aggressive shotmaking from words written on his glove -- confidence, trust and dominate.

“Dominate is a word I came up with in college because I wanted to see how good I can play,” Koivun said. “It helped me a lot in college golf with my mindset and I just kept doing it.”

Scheffler, a four-time major winner, fired a bogey-free 63 to finish second on 262 with Brian Harman, the 2023 British Open champion, fellow Americans Denny McCarthy and Chandler Phillips and Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters winner, sharing third on 264.

Scheffler birdied six of his first 12 holes but the 30-year-old American came up short in what would have been the greatest last-round comeback of his career, having started six adrift.

“Not everything I hoped for,” said Scheffler. “I did what I could today. I was close... put up a good fight. Played nice today.”

Scheffler, who won in January in the California desert, now has five runner-up efforts, including the Masters, among 11 top-four finishes this year. AFP The whole Agra family came in full force to support Jessica in Singapore. Jessica Agra

Seno surges, Morris reigns in Mandaue juniors tennis NADINE Seno produced the tournament’s biggest breakthrough while Matthew Morris reaffirmed his growing stature as one of the country’s brightest junior prospects, emerging as the biggest winners in the Mandaue City Juniors Age Group Tennis Championships at the Mandaue City courts in Cebu on Sunday.

Coming off a winless campaign in the Cebu City leg of the three-stop Visayas swing of the Palawan Juniors Tennis Series, Seno made a stunning turnaround, sweeping two singles titles in emphatic fashion by toppling a pair of No. 1 seeds to headline the Group 2 tournament presented by Dunlop.

The Bogo City standout first ruled the girls’ 14-and-under division, capping a dominant run with a commanding 6-1, 6-0 demolition of top seed and local ace Sabrina Aldeguer in the finals.

She then carried the same confidence into the tougher 16-and-U class, dispatching Trisha Nocum, 6-2, 6-3, in the semifinals before overpowering another top seed, Mitchellen Cruspero, 6-2, 6-2, to complete an impressive double-title romp.

It marked a remarkable bounce-back for Seno, who settled for semifinal finishes in both age categories in Cebu City just a week earlier. Her stellar response earned her a share of the tournament’s Most Valu-

Nadine Seno and Morris Matthew show off their trophies and medals after capturing top honors in the Mandaue juniors tennis tournament. Flanking them are Palawan tennis coach Allain Rey Lao (left) and tournament referee Karen Arellano.

able Player honors with Morris.

While Seno grabbed the spotlight with her breakthrough run, Morris continued to establish himself as the player to beat in boys’ competition.

The Dumaguete ace successfully defended his dominance in the 16-and18-and-under divisions after pulling off the same feat in Cebu City, dropping just four games in two championship matches.

WASHINGTON—Jackson Koivun, playing only his third PGA Tour event as a professional, held off top-ranked Scottie Scheffler in Sunday’s final round to capture the 3M Open in record fashion.

The 21-year-old American fired a five-under par 66 to finish 72 holes in a tournament record 25-under par 259 at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, Minnesota, to defeat Scheffler by three strokes.

“I played a great round of golf,” Koivun said. “Had some nerves coming down 18. All throughout the crowd I kept hearing, ‘Scottie’s coming, Scottie’s coming.’

“I just tried to tune that out and keep playing the golf I knew I could and was able to find some good putts coming down the stretch.”

American Lee Hodges set the prior 3M Open scoring record at 24-under 260 to win in 2023.

Former world amateur number one Koivun, who didn’t miss a putt inside five feet all week, fired a 61 on Saturday to lead by three on the way to his first PGA triumph in just 24 days as a pro, poised and calm under pressure.

He overwhelmed doubles partner Jhunreal Espinosa, 6-0, 6-2, to capture the 16-and-U crown before repeating the identical scoreline against top seed Aaron Tabura to retain the premier 18-andU title and complete another double championship sweep.

The Mandaue tournament capped the three-leg Visayas swing following stops in Naga City and Cebu City, extending the momentum of the nation-

wide Palawan Juniors Tennis Series, which came on the heels of the successful Mindanao circuit.

With Philippine tennis riding a wave of renewed enthusiasm following Alex Eala’s rise to world prominence, the series continues to provide aspiring young players with a vital platform to sharpen their skills, gain valuable match experience, earn ranking points and prepare for higher levels of competition.

Sanctioned by Philta and Universal Tennis Rating, the nationwide circuit is backed by ICON Golf & Sports, Dunlop and the Palawan Group of Companies. The program is spearheaded by Palawan Pawnshop president and CEO Bobby Castro, whose sustained commitment to grassroots tennis continues to create opportunities for young Filipino talents through professionally organized tournaments staged across the country.

Also emerging victorious in Mandaue were Andrio Estrella of Asturias, Cebu, Enzo Niere of Bogo City, Arianna Tiongko of Cebu City and Cruspero of Negros Oriental.

Estrella rallied from a set down to edge Madison Rago, 1-6, 6-2, 7-5, for the boys’ 14-and-U title, while Niere also came from behind to defeat Dale Diamante, 2-6, 6-4, 6-3, for the boys’ 12-and-U championship.

Basketball talk at PSA Forum THE Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and the Gilas Pilipinas team bound for the FIBA 3x3 U23 World Cup will discuss their coming campaign in China and other basketball related matters as it serve as special guests in the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum on Tuesday (July 28) at the Philippine Sports Commission media room.

SBP Executive Director Erika Dy, 3x3 program director Ryan Gregorio, Gilas men’s 3x3 coach JJ Espanola and the trio of Karl Medina, Koji Buenaflor, and Jhuniel Dela Rama are gracing the weekly session set at 10:30 a.m.

Included in the agenda is the U23 World Cup set in Wuhan, China from Sept. 15-19, the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, the second round of the FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers to be held at the Mall of Asia Arena, and the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan.

Also invited in the session is Gilas Pilipinas women’s head coach Burke ‘BT’ Toews.

Presented by San Miguel Corporation, PSC, Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, and the country’s 24/7 sports app ArenaPlus, the Forum is being livestreamed via the PSA Facebook page fb.com/ PhilippineSportswritersAssociation, and aired on a delayed basis over Sports Radio 918.

It is also shared on the Facebook page DZSR Sports Radio 918 khz.

SPORTS

A8

TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026

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

UST savors sweeping golden finish IT WAS short but sweet for the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses.

Marching into their first tournament following the departure of key senior players and in the absence of their injured main setter, the Golden Tigresses found a way to bring out their fierce growl and translate it into a breakthrough championship in the 2026 Shakey’s Collegiate National Invitationals.

UST came out firing on all cylinders and captured the throne in a sweeping fashion to punctuate the Espana-based squad’s dominance in the international-flavored weeklong tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner, and R and B Milk Tea. The Tigresses rolled past every obstacle for an impressive perfect seven-game romp capped by a come-from-behind, 2225, 25-8, 25-12, 25-22, winner-take-all championship win over College of Saint Benilde on Sunday at the Playtime FilOil Arena in San Juan.

“Siyempre, sobrang happy dahil ‘yun nga nakuha namin ‘yung championship,” said UST head coach Shaq Delos Santos, whose squad dropped only a total of two sets the whole competition.

“Sabi ko nga medyo short ‘yung preparation namin but ang good thing kasi ‘yung response din ng mga players and also coaches sa sistema na ina-adjust namin. I think ‘yun ‘yung malaking bagay. Good thing dito, nakita rin namin kung ano pa ‘yung mga kailangan naming i-improve.

Sobrang dami pa namin kailangan ayusin,” added the architect of the Tigresses’ last UAAP championship 16 years ago.

Skipper Regina Jurado and Most Valuable Player Angge Poyos stepped up not only on offense but also in their roles as leaders of a Tigresses side filled with young guns.

The duo delivered the much-needed points in the title showdown with Jurado pumping in 21 points and Poyos scoring 20 as UST surpassed its third-place finish in 2023 by capturing the elusive crown in the competition supported by Jetour, Baic, Eurotel, Victory Liner Rent & Go, F2 Logistics, Summit Natural Drinking Water, PusoP.com and Smart Sports.

Rookie Kim Rubin, who helped UST’s high school team rule the Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League Rising Stars Cup and was named MVP last May, added 12 points while middle blocker Blessing Unekwe scored seven of her 10 points on kill blocks, highlighting the Tigresses’ collective team effort.

Members of the victorious UST Golden Tigresses are shown after their title romp. Roman Prospero

Centeno rules Oneida Women’s rd 8-Ball tourney for 3 world title F

By Randy M. Caluag

ILIPINA cue star Chezzka Centeno completed an unbeaten campaign to capture the 2026 Oneida WPA Women’s World 8-Ball Championship on Monday morning (PH time), defeating former world champion Kelly Fisher of Great Britain, 9-6, in the final in Wisconsin, USA.

The victory handed the Zamboanga native her third individual world championship, adding the Women’s World 8-Ball title to the WPA Women’s World 10-Ball crowns she won

Chezka Centeno on top of the world again WPA

in 2023 and 2025, respectively.

Centeno, known as “The Flash,” dominated the 64-player field from 22 countries, sweeping all three of her elimination-round matches before eliminating Chinese Taipei’s world No. 2 Tzu Chien Wei, 8-5, fellow Filipina Rubilen Amit, 8-6, and Austria’s Jasmin Ouschan, 8-4, to reach the championship match.

She avenged last year’s heartbreak against

Ouschan, who defeated her in the inaugural edition of the tournament, and returned to the final determined not to be denied.

Centeno controlled the title match against the multi-time world champion Fisher, pulling away to secure the 9-6 victory, the world crown, and the tournament’s $30,000 top prize.

The triumph carried deep personal significance for the 25-year-old, whose mother, one of her strongest supporters throughout her billiards career, recently passed away.

After sinking the winning shot, Centeno broke into tears and dedicated the victory to her late mother, making the emotional celebration one of the tournament’s defining moments.

The championship was sanctioned by the World Pool Association (WPA) and organized by the Women’s Professional Billiard Association (WPBA), bringing together many of the world’s top female players in one of the sport’s premier international events.

Alex prioritizes singles, pulls out of doubles

By Jeremiah Sevilla

Alexandra Eala (right) during her first team-up with Venus Williams

FILIPINA tennis standout Alexandra “Alex” Eala bared the reason behind her sudden pullout in the 2026 Mubadala DC Open doubles, where she was initially set to renew her dream partnership with American legend Venus Williams.

The 21-year-old Eala had a last-minute change of heart and decided to withdraw from the doubles event of the Washington Open, prompting the 14-time Grand Slam doubles winner Williams to pair up with Russia’s Diana Shnaider instead.

Coming off a three-week break from competition after her Wimbledon breakthrough, Eala said she is not yet ready to go all-out in both singles and doubles to kick off her North American hard-court season in the WTA 500 tournament that runs from July 27 to August 2.

“I have so much respect for Venus. I am so grateful for every opportunity that I have to be around her, to learn from her, to hit with her. But I do think this is my first week coming back, and I think that Venus is someone who deserves a partner who can give their all physically,

emotionally, mentally when they’re on court with her,” Eala said in a press conference.

“I think right now I can only do that for singles. I don’t have the capacity yet to be able to give that in both singles and doubles. I’m really grateful for the opportunity that I had, or have, and hopefully we see more of it in the future,” she added.

Eala and Williams were supposed to play as a pair for the second time after their quarterfinal run in the Bad Homburg Open in Germany last month.

With her doubles withdrawal, Eala now sets her full attention to the singles event where she seeks to exact a sweet revenge against Asian Games tormentor and reigning Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen of China in the first round on Tuesday.

Eala and Zheng are set to meet for the first time on the WTA Tour, giving the Pinay ace a shot at avenging her 1-6, 7-6(5), 3-6 loss to Zheng in the Asiad semifinals nearly three years ago in Hangzhou.

Meanwhile, Eala has already earned a main draw seeding and a first-round bye in the National Bank Open slated August 2 to 13 in Toronto, Canada.

Schoeman returns, eyes 2nd IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu crown OLYMPIC bronze medalist Henri Schoeman returns to the IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu presented by Megaworld next month determined to prove that his breakthrough victory was no one-off. After capturing the title in his race debut in 2024, the South African sat out last year’s edition but is back, seeking a second championship against what is arguably the strongest international professional field ever assembled for the country’s premier middle-distance triathlon.

Schoeman’s commanding wire-to-wire triumph in 2024 established him as one of the event’s standout champions.

This year, however, the 34-year-old faces an even sterner challenge on a course renowned not only for its worldclass setting but also for its punishing heat, humidity and demanding terrain that test even the sport’s most accomplished professionals.

He won the grueling 1.9-km swim, 90-km bike and 21km run in four hours, two minutes and 31 seconds, besting New Zealand’s Sam Osborne (4:06:40), and Britain’s Tom Bishop (4:11:01).

What made the victory even more remarkable was that it came in Schoeman’s debut over the IRONMAN 70.3 distance.

While the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympic bronze medalist has since competed in several middle-distance events around the

world, including the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship and Challenge Samarkand, his victory in Lapu-Lapu remains his lone IRONMAN 70.3 title – making his return to Cebu on Aug. 9 even more compelling as he seeks to capture another crown that launched his transition to long-course racing.

But repeating will be anything but easy.

A fired-up international cast is eager to foil the 2024 champion in the marquee race organized by Sunrise Events, inc., setting the stage for another spectacular battle of endurance, speed and tactical brilliance on one of Asia’s premier triathlon destinations.

Leading the challengers is Austria’s Sebastian Fuchs, the 24-year-old rising star who captured third place at IRONMAN 70.3 Spain in 2023 and continues to establish himself among Europe’s promising young professionals.

New Zealand’s Brett Clifford also looms as a major threat after compiling an impressive string of podium finishes this season, highlighted by a silver medal and multiple bronze-medal performances in half-IRONMAN races, including events in South Korea and Taiwan.

Japan’s Kenshin Mizushima brings an equally formidable résumé, having captured multiple elite overall championships in IRONMAN 70.3 competitions and regional triathlon circuits.

Henri Schoeman

Phoenix import BJ Johnson against Ginebra’s Ralph Cu PBA

Fuel Masters, FiberXers try to bounce back PHOENIX and Converge seek to get back on the winning track when they tangle with skidding opponents in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup on Tuesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.

The Fuel Masters take on the Blackwater Bossing in the curtain-raiser at 5:15 p.m. while the FiberXers clash against the TNT Tropang Giga in the main game at 7:30 p.m.

Phoenix saw its three-game winning start halted after taking a 98-105 loss to Rain or Shine last week, although it remained on top of Group B in the season’s second import-flavored conference.

Coach Charles Tiu’s Fuel Masters, led by reinforcement BJ Johnson and local stalwarts Ricci Rivero, Jason Perkins, and Kenneth Tuffin, will be eager to rediscover their winning form to keep their grip on the group lead.

And that’s exactly what Blackwater mentor Pat Aquino wants to warn his players about as he urges them to bring back the energy that gave them a two-win start at the expense of traditional powerhouses Rain or Shine and Magnolia.

“They (Phoenix) will be tough so we’ve got to be tougher, be more aggressive,” said Aquino, whose team absorbed backto-back setbacks to Meralco and Barangay Ginebra.

“We need to bring back the things we did right nung first two games namin. We know this is still a young team but I think we’ve realized na it’s really hard manalo dito sa PBA and we really have to work harder, work together,” he added.

BUSINESS

B1

TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026

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

AMRO keeps 2026 PH growth BDO Unibank forecast, trims inflation outlook posted P40.7b 4.1% in six-month T net income

By Thony Rose Lesaca

GDP growth forecast for 2026

5.5% GDP growth forecast for 2027

5.7%

HE ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) kept its gross domestic product growth forecast for the Philippines unchanged at 4.1 percent for 2026 and 5.5 percent for 2027, while lowering its inflation outlook for the country this year.

AMRO cut its 2026 inflation forecast for the Philippines to 5.7 percent from 6.0 percent and retained its 2027 inflation projection at 4.1 percent, according to its July 2026 Quarterly Update of the ASEAN+3 Regional Economic Outlook (AREO).

AMRO chief economist Dong He said the country’s stable growth outlook is supported by its participation in the global artificial

intelligence supply chain, particularly through semiconductor exports.

“Even though we typically think that the Philippines is very much a service-based export economy, it is very much plugged into the global AI cycle as well. They are very involved in the semiconductor exports, so that would continue to provide support to export growth in the Philippines,” he said in a virtual news briefing

Monday.

He said the slower growth forecast compared with last year’s 4.4 percent also reflected subdued private investment, an area that should be strengthened further to withstand headwinds.

“This is an area that the Philippines should really focus on, that is how to strengthen private investment so that the production capacity and the infrastructure will be strong enough to support higher medium-term growth in terms of dealing with extreme weather conditions to make the economy much more robust,” He said.

He said the Philippines has been among the economies in the region most affected by the global oil price shock, which has weighed on growth while pushing up inflation.

Inflation outlook for 2026 SKILLED WOMEN.

Mary Jane Domo, a graduate of Greenstone Resources Corp.’s technical livelihood training program, is making her mark as a mechanic in the mining field. Domo checks the engine oil level of an articulated dump truck, one of the many maintenance tasks she now carries out with confidence. Across Greenstone, a subsidiary of TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc. (TVIRD), women are stepping into technical trades long viewed as male-dominated—working as heavy equipment operators, mechanics, and welders—through the company’s livelihood training programs.

AG&P breaks ground on 85-hectare fabrication yard in Batangas

By Jenniffer B. Austria and Othel V. Campos AG&P Industrial, the engineering and construction arm of Atlantic, Gulf & Pacific Company of Manila Inc., has started construction of an 85-hectare module fabrication yard in San Pascual, Batangas as it expands capacity to serve global demand for energy and industrial infrastructure projects.

The facility will have an annual fabrication capacity of 80,000 metric tons of modules for projects serving the energy (LNG, petroleum, clean and renewable fuels), power, refining, chemicals, digital and industrial infrastructure sectors.

The San Pascual yard will replace AG&P Industrial’s Batangas Heavy Fabrication Yard in Bauan, which has served as the company’s main

operating base for more than 40 years.

AG&P Industrial said the new facility forms part of its next phase of growth and is designed to increase productivity, improve safety and quality and help address supply chain constraints affecting large industrial projects.

The yard will use the company’s proprietary Modstruction system, which shifts much of the construction

work from project sites into a controlled fabrication environment, an approach designed to reduce project costs and shorten delivery times.

The facility will feature a dedicated wharf, advanced assembly areas and specialized load-out facilities, with potential drydock capabilities. AG&P Industrial said these features would help it handle large and complex projects for international clients.

IN BRIEF Converge best internet provider in Ookla’s report

CONVERGE ICT Solutions Inc. ranked as the Philippines’ best internet service provider after earning top honors in Ookla’s Speedtest Intelligence report for the first half of 2026.

Ookla named Converge FiberX the recipient of the “Best Internet,” “Fastest Internet” and “Best Fixed Latency” awards, based on millions of consumer-initiated Speedtest results collected nationwide from January to June 2026.

Converge posted a speed ccore of 61.86 and a speedtest connectivity score of 73.14, while registering an industry-leading latency score of 14.44. Lower latency translates to faster network response times, improving the experience for online gaming, video conferencing, cloud applications and other real-time digital services.

The latest awards extend Converge’s winning streak in the Ookla Speedtest Awards, with the company consistently earning top distinctions since 2022.

“We take pride in providing the best broadband service to our over three million subscribers,” Converge chief operations officer Benjamin Azada said.

“Being awarded the fastest provider for four straight years, best ISP for three years and now confirmed to have the best latency, is a testament to our consistent efforts to deliver superior performance,” he said.

Darwin G. Amojelar

Ignite gets member backing for SOCOTECO II venture

IGNITE Power & Energy Corp., a joint venture between businessman Enrique Razon Jr.’s Primelectric Holdings Inc. and former Sen. Manny Pacquiao’s MP Holdings Inc., said member-consumer-owners of South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO II) have thrown their support behind its proposed joint venture agreement with the cooperative, but the deal still requires majority approval before it can move forward.

Primelectric Holdings Inc. president and chief executive Roel Castro said the member-consumer-owners adopted resolutions during the cooperative’s annual general membership assembly, but cautioned that the conditional joint venture agreement (JVA) must still secure majority approval

from members.

“Though there was an adoption of resolutions yesterday during the AGMA [annual general membership assembly], the conditional JVA has to be approved by the majority of the member-consumer-owners,” Castro said.

“This is the only time we can say that the agreement is approved for execution,” he said.

SOCOTECO II board president Elenito Senit told the assembly he signed the conditional joint venture agreement with Ignite Power on July 23 after receiving formal board authorization.

Senit said the agreement addresses longstanding financial and technical challenges confronting the cooperative, particularly the need to rehabilitate, expand and modernize its aging power distribution system.

The assembly subsequently voted to confirm and adopt the board’s resolution.

Alena Mae S. Flores

1,793 arrested in crackdown on illicit vapes, cigarettes

THE Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said it inspected 3,590 establishments selling cigarettes, vapor products and heated tobacco products nationwide as part of an intensified campaign against illicit trade and excise tax violations.

The simultaneous Tax Compliance Verification Drive, conducted by all 22 BIR revenue regions on July 20, resulted in 1,793 apprehensions for various tax compliance violations, the agency said.

BIR teams seized 8,634 vape products and 22,251 packs of cigarettes, with an estimated tax liability of P16.54 million.

The violations included failure to register with the BIR, issue receipts or invoices, maintain registered books of accounts and display certificates of registration, as well as possession of excisable products without the required BIR tax stamps and other breaches of registration, invoicing, bookkeeping and excise tax laws.

“The bureau will continue to enforce our tax laws firmly and fairly. Businesses that comply with the law deserve a level playing field, while those who deliberately evade taxes and sell illicit products should expect consistent enforcement. Protecting our revenue base protects every honest taxpayer and supports nation-building,” said BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza.

WATER USE. JTI Asia Manufacturing Corp. cuts the water used in its operations by half at its manufacturing facility in Malvar, Batangas through a system improvement that is helping strengthen both manufacturing efficiency and environmental performance.

Shown are (from left) Christian Louie Pamplona, utilities and energy supervisor; Maria Danica Alulod, building and facilities engineer; Jessa Marie Landicho, environment engineer; and Dani Mei Llagas, corporate affairs and communications manager.

PH motorcycle sales increased 3.58% to 939,528 units in first half—MDPPA THE Philippine motorcycle industry posted a 3.58-percent increase in firsthalf sales this year, as strong firstquarter demand offset a softer second quarter, the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA) said Monday.

The industry sold 939,528 units from January to June, up from 907,054 units in the same period last year, MDPPA said.

First-quarter sales climbed 11.6 percent to 496,868 units from a year ago, providing the cushion that kept first-half sales in positive territory.

Second-quarter sales fell 4.2 percent to 442,660 units from 462,007 units in the same period last year, as the market faced a tougher comparison against an exceptionally strong first half of 2025.

Automatic motorcycles remained the top-selling category with 655,004 units sold in the first six months, reflecting riders’ preference for the segment’s convenience, fuel efficiency and practicality for daily commuting.

Business motorcycles followed with 148,989 units, underscoring their role in delivery services, small businesses and other livelihood activities. Mopeds accounted for 107,632 units, while the street category posted 24,346 units. Big bikes contributed 2,994 units, and other motorcycle categories made up the remaining 563 units.

MDPPA president Erwin Estrada said the first-half results reflect the resilience of the Philippine motorcycle industry.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

BDO Unibank Inc. posted a net income of P40.7 billion in the first half of 2026, slightly higher than the P40.6 billion recorded a year ago, as strong loan growth and higher operating income supported the bank’s earnings.

Return on equity stood at 12.7 percent during the period.

Gross customer loans grew 15 percent year-on-year to P3.9 trillion, with all major lending segments posting double-digit growth.

Net interest income rose 11 percent from a year earlier, while total deposits increased 13 percent.

Current and savings account deposits, or CASA, grew 4 percent.

The bank’s pre-provision operating profit increased 12 percent, helped by stronger lending activity and controlled operating expenses, which grew at a single-digit pace.

“Provisions were increased as a prudential measure against evolving risks,” BDO said.

Non-interest income also increased 4 percent on a 14-percent increase in insurance operations.

Asset quality improved during the period, with the nonperforming loan ratio falling to 1.64 percent from 1.75 percent a year earlier.

NPL coverage stood at 132 percent.

Credit costs, however, increased to 67 basis points as the bank raised provisions as a precaution against potential risks.

Shareholders’ equity grew 8 percent, lifting book value per share to P121.78. The bank’s common equity Tier 1 ratio stood at 13.1 percent, keeping its capital position above regulatory requirements.

BDO said its strong business fundamentals and balance sheet would help it navigate economic uncertainties and take advantage of growth opportunities.

MREIT acquiring P27b worth of mall, hotel, office assets MREIT Inc., the real estate investment trust of property developer Megaworld Corp., said Monday it will acquire P27 billion worth of mall, hotel and office assets through a share swap deal with three companies.

The transaction, the largest asset infusion into the company to date, will add 303,900 square meters of gross leasable area to MREIT’s portfolio, the company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

Once completed, MREIT’s total gross leasable area will exceed 950,000 square meters, keeping the company on track to reach its target of 1 million square meters by 2027.

“As we scale, we remain focused on driving cost efficiencies across the portfolio. This provides a clear path to margin improvement and, in turn, dividend-per-share accretion for shareholders. MREIT’s next phase of growth is about building a larger, more diversified platform that drives long-term value for shareholders,” MREIT president and chief executive Jose Arnulfo Batac said.

Under the plan, MREIT will acquire retail assets with 160,200 square meters of leasable area, including Festive Walk Mall at Iloilo Business Park in Iloilo City, Lucky Chinatown Mall in Binondo, Manila, Venice Grand Canal Mall in McKinley Hill, Taguig, Eastwood Mall in Quezon City and Southwoods Mall in Biñan, Laguna.

The hotel component consists of the 737-room Holiday Inn Express Manila Newport City, which has 26,500 square meters of gross leasable area.

The office assets consist of six properties with a combined gross leasable area of 117,200 square meters. These are Science Hub Tower 2 and Venice Corporate Center in McKinley Hill, Six West Campus in McKinley West, One Paseo in ArcoVia City, Global One in Eastwood City and Horizon Center in Newport City. Jenniffer B. Austria

B2

CYAN MAGENTA MAGENTA YELLOW YELLOW BLACK BLACK CYAN

business

Manila Manila Manila

Standard TODAY

TODAY TODAY

TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com

PSEi rises to 6,314 on easing oil prices, positive bank results

66th h Floor F oo Tera Te a Tower, Towe B dge owne Brgy.

B gy Ugong No e Quezon C y 1110 6th 6th Floor Tera Tower, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

Ugong Norte, Quezon City 1110 Floor Tera Tower,Bridgetowne, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

UgongNorte, Norte, QuezonCity City 1110 H R NG JOB JOB HIRING JOB HIRING HIRING

FINANCE FINANCE DIRECTOR FINANCEDIRECTOR DIRECTOR •••• •••• •••• ••••

Co-lead transition of financial governance structures to align with majority shareholder requirements by Co-lead Co-lead transition of financial governance structures to align with majority shareholder requirements by Co-lead transition transition of of financial financial governance governance structures structures to to align align with with majority majority shareholder shareholder requirements requirements by by implementing, integrating or transitioning financial control frameworks, approval authorities, and delegation implementing, implementing, integrating or transitioning financial control frameworks, approval authorities, and delegation implementing,integrating integratingor ortransitioning transitioningfinancial financialcontrol controlframeworks, frameworks,approval approvalauthorities, authorities,and anddelegation delegation matrices; and by ensuring compliance with statutory, tax, audit and corporate governance requirements. matrices; matrices; and by ensuring compliance with statutory, tax, audit and corporate governance requirements. matrices;and andby byensuring ensuringcompliance compliancewith withstatutory, statutory,tax, tax,audit auditand andcorporate corporategovernance governancerequirements. requirements.

Initiate review and rationalization of existing JV financial policies &&procedures procedures to align accounting, reporting, Initiate Initiate review and rationalization of existing JV financial policies procedures to align accounting, reporting, Initiatereview reviewand andrationalization rationalizationof ofexisting existingJV JVfinancial financialpolicies policies&& proceduresto toalign alignaccounting, accounting,reporting, reporting, treasury, budgeting and forecasting processes with Nissin standards treasury, treasury, budgeting and forecasting processes with Nissin standards treasury,budgeting budgetingand andforecasting forecastingprocesses processeswith withNissin Nissinstandards standards Co-develop finance transition roadmaps, identity financial risks arising from ownership restructuring, and Co-develop Co-develop finance transition roadmaps, identity financial risks arising from ownership restructuring, and Co-develop finance finance transition transition roadmaps, roadmaps, identity identity financial financial risks risks arising arising from from ownership ownership restructuring, restructuring, and and oversee handover of responsibilities, as necessary, during transitions oversee oversee handover of responsibilities, as necessary, during transitions overseehandover handoverof ofresponsibilities, responsibilities,as asnecessary, necessary,during duringtransitions transitions Co-design reporting structures and OKRs of NURC Finance team Co-design Co-design reporting structures and OKRs of NURC Finance team Co-designreporting reportingstructures structuresand andOKRs OKRsof ofNURC NURCFinance Financeteam team

This Position requires the following qualifications: This This Position requires the following qualifications: ThisPosition Positionrequires requiresthe thefollowing followingqualifications: qualifications: Candidate must possess at least Bachelor’s/College Degree in accountancy, finance, economics or any •••• Candidate Candidate must possess at least Bachelor’s/College Degree in accountancy, finance, economics or any Candidatemust mustpossess possessat atleast leastaaaaBachelor’s/College Bachelor’s/CollegeDegree Degreein inaccountancy, accountancy,finance, finance,economics economicsor orany any business-related discipline; CPA and/or MBA, or equivalent postgraduate qualification is advantage business-related business-related discipline; CPA and/or MBA, or equivalent postgraduate qualification is advantage business-relateddiscipline; discipline;CPA CPAand/or and/orMBA, MBA,or orequivalent equivalentpostgraduate postgraduatequalification qualificationis isadvantage advantage • At least 10 years of progressive Finance experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role; ••• At At least 10 years of progressive Finance experience, with at least years in senior leadership role; Atleast least10 10years yearsof ofprogressive progressiveFinance Financeexperience, experience,with withat atleast least555years yearsin inaaasenior seniorleadership leadershiprole; role; Proven experience overseeing the full spectrum of finance functions, inclu &&analysis •••• Proven Proven experience overseeing the full spectrum of finance functions, including financial planning analysis Provenexperience experienceoverseeing overseeingthe thefull fullspectrum spectrumof offinance financefunctions, functions,including includingfinancial financialplanning planning&& analysis F&PA accounting m m m (F&PA), (F&PA), accounting and financial reporting, treasury and cash management, tax tax and regulatory compliance, (F&PA), accountingand andfinancial financialreporting, reporting,treasury treasuryand andcash cashmanagement, management, taxand andregulatory regulatorycompliance, compliance, &&risk m m &&forecasting. internal internal controls risk management, and and budgeting forecasting. internalcontrols controls&& riskmanagement, management, andbudgeting budgeting&& forecasting.

EExperiencein m FMCG m &&JV V environments m ••• Experience Experience in manufacturing, FMCG and multi-national JV environments preferred preferred inmanufacturing, manufacturing,FMCG FMCGand andmulti-national multi-national&& JV environments preferred EExperienceworking w w m w ••• Experience Experience working within matrixed organization and collaborating with regional and global stakeholders workingwithin withinaaamatrixed matrixedorganization organizationand andcollaborating collaboratingwith withregional regionaland andglobal globalstakeholders stakeholders required required required AAdvancedwritten w EEnglishcommunication mm ••• Advanced Advanced written and verbal English communication skills skills are required writtenand andverbal verbalEnglish communication skillsare arerequired required

By Jenniffer B. Austria

P

HILIPPINE shares rose Monday, reclaiming the 6,300 level as investors drew confidence from strong first-half earnings reported by major banks.

FForInterested m m your AAlexGomez G m (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph A G m @ m or For For Interested candidates, you may submit your application to: Alex Gomez (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph or through Interestedcandidates, candidates, you youmay maysubmit submit yourapplication application to: to:Alex Gomez (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph orthrough through +639688778868) +639688778868) +639688778868) YYoumay m KKevinStanley SStanleyC. C EEnriquez(stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph @ m or You You may also contact: Kevin Stanley C. Enriquez (stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph or through +639988402400) or through mayalso alsocontact: contact:Kevin C.Enriquez (stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph orthrough through+639988402400) +639988402400)or orthrough through N U R C Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Robina Corporation at +632.516.9888 Nissin-Universal RobinaCorporation Corporationat at+632.516.9888 +632.516.9888 Comp n Emp o Company/Employer: Company/Employer: Company/Employer: Comp n N n Un Rob n Company: Company: Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Robina Company: Nissin-Universal Robina Co po on Corporation Corporation Corporation Comp n Address: Add h Floor FFloor oo Tera TTera Tower, Tow Company Company Address: 6th Floor Tera Tower, Company Address: 6th 6th Tower, B dg own Brgy.

B g Ugong Ugong No Qu on City, C Bridgetowne, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

Ugong Norte, Quezon City, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

UgongNorte, Norte,Quezon Quezon City, N u of oofBusiness: Bu n M nu u ng Nature Nature of Business: Manufacturing Manufacturing Nature Business: Manufacturing

Name oofForeign Fo e gnNationals Na ona sintending n end ngto oapply app yfor o the he Name Name of Foreign Nationals intending to apply for the Nameof Foreign Nationals intending to apply for the pos on position: position: position: Name Ta u a Kawa am Name: Name: Tatsuya Kawakami Name:Tatsuya TatsuyaKawakami Kawakami Add e Un 31H Ha u Tower Towe The Sea on Address: Address: Unit Unit 31H Haru Tower The Seasons Address: Unit 31H 31H Haru Haru Tower The The Seasons Seasons Re den e North No h Bonifacio Bon a o District, D 36 h Street, S ee corner o ne Residences, Residences, North Bonifacio District, 36th Street, corner Residences, North Bonifacio District,36th 36th Street, corner 88th hAvenue, A enue Taguig Tagu gCity, C 1637 Me oManila, Man a Philippines Ph pp ne 8th 8th Avenue, Taguig City, 1637, Metro Manila, Philippines Avenue, Taguig City,1637, 1637,Metro Metro Manila, Philippines Two 2 years ea ---Two Two (2) years Two(2) (2) years

The peso a so s reng hened c os ng a 61 68 o he U S do ar from 61 85 on Fr day The benchmark Ph pp ne S ock Exchange ndex ga ned 33 89 po n s or 0 54 percen o c ose a 6 314 90 wh e he broader a shares ndex rose 12 89 po n s or 0 38 percen o 3 435 37

N ss n Un ve sa Robina Rob na Corporation Co po a on hereby he eb declares de a e that ha the he above-named abo e named foreign o e gn national na ona is ab e Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, able, w ng and and qua ed to o perform pe o m the he services e e and and ob description de p on for o this h position. po on The The ompan has ha he willing, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position.

The company has the willing, andqualified qualified to perform the services andjob job description for this position.

Thecompany company hasthe the n en on o emp o he a d o e gn na ona and app o an A en Emp o men Pe m w h he Depa men intention intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department intentionto toemploy employthe thesaid saidforeign foreignnational nationaland andapply applyfor foran anAlien AlienEmployment EmploymentPermit Permitwith withthe theDepartment Department oofLabor Labo and Emp o men ––––National Na ona Capital Cap a Region Reg on located o a ed at aat967 967 Ma ga a Street, S ee Malate, Ma a e Manila Man a of of Labor and Employment National Capital Region located at 967 Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila Laborand andEmployment Employment National Capital Region located 967Maligaya Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila ÊÊÊ

V n position: po tion One One 1 Vacant Vacant position: One (1) Vacant position: One(1) (1)

66th h Floor F oo Tera Te a Tower, Towe B dge owne Brgy.

B gy Ugong No e Quezon C y 1110 6th 6th Floor Tera Tower, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

Ugong Norte, Quezon City 1110 Floor Tera Tower,Bridgetowne, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

UgongNorte, Norte, QuezonCity City 1110 H R NG JOB JOB HIRING JOB HIRING HIRING

ob Description: De ption Job Job Description: Job Description: e pon b e for o developing de e op n and nd executing e e utin the he Group's G oup investment n e men A G oup Investment n e men Head He d is for developing and executing the Group's investment •Ê •Ê A Group Investment Head is responsible for developing and executing the Group's investment •Ê A A Group Group Investment Head is responsible responsible e and nd identify denti high-potential h h po enti investment n e men opportunities. oppo un tie The he role o e oversees o e ee capital p o tion strategy and identify high-potential investment opportunities.

The role oversees capital allocation, strategy allocation, strategy and identify high-potential investment opportunities.

The role oversees capital allocation, n e men sourcing ou n and nd execution, e e ution portfolio po tfo o management, m n emen risk o e n n e and nd strategic e investment sourcing and execution, portfolio management, risk governance, and strategic investment investment sourcing and execution, portfolio management, risk governance, governance, and strategic p ne h p o mu tip e e e nd m e he po tion o p o de e partnerships across multiple asset classes and markets.

The position also provides strategic partnerships across multiple asset classes and markets.

The position also provides strategic partnerships across multiple asset classes and markets. The position also provides strategic n e men team e m and nd n e men advice d e to o senior en o management m n emen while wh e leading e d n aaa high-performing h h pe o m n investment investment advice to senior management while leading high-performing investment team and investment investment advice to senior management while leading high-performing investment team and en u n compliance omp n e with w h corporate o po e governance o e n n e and nd regulatory e u o requirements. equ emen ensuring ensuring compliance with corporate governance and regulatory requirements. ensuring compliance with corporate governance and regulatory requirements.

DEPUTY PRES DENT DEPUTY PRESIDENT DEPUTYPRESIDENT PRESIDENT ••• ••• ••• •••

C m m m w && Co-lead Co-lead transition planning and implementation related related to changes in majority ownership and and its structures Co-leadtransition transitionplanning planningand andimplementation implementation relatedto tochanges changesin inmajority majorityownership ownership andits itsstructures structures&& w m and governance; governance; and serve as key liaison with key stakeholders in securing alignment and approval of transitory governance;and andserve serveas askey keyliaison liaisonwith withkey keystakeholders stakeholdersin insecuring securingalignment alignment andapproval approvalof oftransitory transitory provisions provisions and transitions plans; provisionsand andtransitions transitionsplans; plans; EEnsure smooth m m m Ensure Ensure smooth transition, transition, transformation and and integration of shareholder requirements, policies policies and smooth transition, transformation transformation and integration integration of of shareholder shareholder requirements, requirements, policies and and m m practices m management management practices leading to full majority transitions; management practicesleading leadingto tofull fullmajority majoritytransitions; transitions; C m m m mm Co-lead Co-lead cross-functional performance and and performance monitoring monitoring across commercial, end-to-end end-to-end supply Co-leadcross-functional cross-functionalperformance performance andperformance performance monitoringacross acrosscommercial, commercial, end-to-endsupply supply m resources, T and m functions chain, chain, finance, human resources, IT, and product development functions chain,finance, finance,human human resources,IT, IT, andproduct productdevelopment development functions C m m m Champion Champion organizational organizational culture, employee engagement engagement and and values during and after period of Champion organizational culture, culture, employee employee engagement and values values during during and and after after period period of of m m transformation; transformation; and and support execution of leadership development, succession succession planning and organizational transformation; andsupport supportexecution executionof ofleadership leadershipdevelopment, development, successionplanning planningand andorganizational organizational capability capability building. capabilitybuilding. building.

Qu fi tion Qualifications: Qualifications: Qualifications: B he o degree de ee in n Commerce, Comme e Business Bu ne Management, M n emen or o e ed field fie d •Ê •Ê Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Business Management, or related field •Ê Bachelor’s Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Business Management, orrelated related field A e 8 10 years e o e pe en e in n investment n e men management m n emen •Ê •Ê At least 8-10 8-10 years of of experience in investment management •Ê At Atleast least 8-10 years ofexperience experience in investment management on knowledge now ed e of o p m e investment n e men strategies, e e portfolio po tfo o management, m n emen and nd corporate o po e •Ê •Ê markets, Strong knowledge of capital markets, investment strategies, portfolio management, and corporate •Ê Strong Strong knowledge ofcapital capital markets, investment strategies, portfolio management, and corporate fin n e finance finance finance e en leadership, e de h p communication, ommun tion presentation, p e en tion and nd stakeholder eho de management m n emen skills •Ê •Ê Excellent leadership, communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills •Ê Excellent Excellent leadership, communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills Ab obuild bu dand ndmaintain m n nrelationships e tion h p with w hinvestors, n e o financial fin n n ti ution and ndstrategic e partners p ne •Ê institutions, •Ê Ability to build and maintain relationships with investors, financial institutions, and strategic partners •Ê Ability Abilityto to build and maintain relationships with investors, financial institutions, and strategic partners e en written w tten and nd verbal e b communication ommun tion skills •Ê •Ê Excellent written and verbal communication skills •Ê Excellent Excellent written and verbal communication skills C e ti e h n n nd p ob em o n b tie •Ê •Ê Creative Creative thinking thinking and and problem-solving problem-solving abilities abilities •Ê Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities on organizational o n tion and nd project p o e management m n emen skills •Ê •Ê Strong organizational and project management skills •Ê Strong Strong organizational and project management skills Ab o work wo ndependen and nd collaboratively o bo ti e in n aaateam e m environment en onmen •Ê •Ê Ability to work independently and collaboratively in team environment •Ê Ability Abilityto to workindependently independently and collaboratively in team environment

TThisPosition PPositionrequires w qualifications: This This Position requires the following qualifications: requiresthe thefollowing following qualifications: C m BBachelor’s/College C D BBusinessAdmin, AAdmin, m Finance, FFinance, Engineering EEngineering ••• Candidate Candidate must possess at least Bachelor’s/College Degree Degree in Business Admin, Finance, Engineering Candidate must must possess possess at at least least aaa Bachelor’s/College Degree in in Business EEconomics, m Management M m Economics, Economics, Management or any related discipline Managementor orany anyrelated relateddiscipline discipline AAtleast w ••• At At least 12 years of progressive leadership experience, with the last to years in senior executive roles least12 12years yearsof ofprogressive progressiveleadership leadershipexperience, experience,with withthe thelast last666to to888years yearsin insenior seniorexecutive executiveroles roles PProven track m w ••• Proven Proven track record of leading large organizations, business units, or multifunctional operations with track record record of of leading leading large large organizations, organizations, business business units, units, or or multifunctional multifunctional operations operations with with responsibility responsibility for delivering strategic and financial results responsibilityfor fordelivering deliveringstrategic strategicand andfinancial financialresults results EExperiencein m FMCG m &&JV V environments m ••• Experience Experience in manufacturing, FMCG and multi-national JV environments preferred preferred inmanufacturing, manufacturing,FMCG FMCGand andmulti-national multi-national&& JV environments preferred EExperienceworking w w m w ••• Experience Experience working within matrixed organization and collaborating with regional and global stakeholders workingwithin withinaaamatrixed matrixedorganization organizationand andcollaborating collaboratingwith withregional regionaland andglobal globalstakeholders stakeholders required required required AAdvancedwritten w E mm ••• Advanced Advanced written and and verbal verbal English English communication communication skills skills are are required required written and verbal English communication skills are required

App tion may m be en to: o Applications Applications may be sent to: Applications maybe besent sent to: Ph Web Talent en Acquisition A qu tion Team e m PhilWeb PhilWeb Talent Acquisition Team PhilWeb Talent Acquisition Team ph web ee @ph web om ph philwebcareers@philweb.com.ph philwebcareers@philweb.com.ph philwebcareers@philweb.com.ph Comp n ///Employer mp o e Company Company Employer Company Employer Comp n Company: Company: Company: Ph Web Co po tion PhilWeb PhilWeb Corporation Corporation PhilWeb Corporation

FForInterested m m your AAlexGomez G m (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph A G m @ m or For For Interested candidates, you may submit your application to: Alex Gomez (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph or through Interestedcandidates, candidates, you youmay maysubmit submit yourapplication application to: to:Alex Gomez (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph orthrough through +639688778868) +639688778868) +639688778868) YYoumay m KKevinStanley SStanleyC. C EEnriquez(stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph @ m or You You may also contact: Kevin Stanley C. Enriquez (stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph or through +639988402400) or through mayalso alsocontact: contact:Kevin C.Enriquez (stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph orthrough through+639988402400) +639988402400)or orthrough through N U R C Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Robina Corporation at +632.516.9888 Nissin-Universal RobinaCorporation Corporationat at+632.516.9888 +632.516.9888 Comp n Emp o Name o Fo e gn Na ona s n end ng o app y o the he Company/Employer: Company/Employer: Name Name of of Foreign Foreign Nationals Nationals intending intending to to apply apply for for the Company/Employer: Name of Foreign Nationals intending to apply for the Comp n N n Un Rob n pos on Company: Company: Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Robina position: position: Company: Nissin-Universal Robina position: Co po on Name Ka uh oOzawa O awa Corporation Corporation Name: Name: Kazuhiro Ozawa Corporation Name:Kazuhiro Kazuhiro Ozawa Comp n Address: Add h Floor FFloor oo Tera TTera Tower, Tow Add e 31-G 31 G Uptown Up own Ritz R Re den e Condominium Condom n um Company Company Address: 6th Floor Tera Tower, Address: Address: 31-G Uptown Ritz Residence Condominium Company Address: 6th 6th Tower, Address: 31-G Uptown Ritz Residence Residence Condominium B dg own Brgy.

B g Ugong Ugong No Qu on City, C BGC Tagu gCity C Two 2 years ea Bridgetowne, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

Ugong Norte, Quezon City, BGC BGC Taguig City Two (2) years Bridgetowne, Brgy.

UgongNorte, Norte,Quezon Quezon City, BGCTaguig Taguig City---Two Two(2) (2) years N u o Bu n M nu u ng Nature Nature of Business: Manufacturing Natureof ofBusiness: Business:Manufacturing Manufacturing N ss n Un ve sa Robina Rob na Corporation Co po a on hereby he eb declares de a e that ha the he above-named abo e named foreign o e gn national na ona is ab e Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, able, w ng and and qua ed to o perform pe o m the he services e e and and ob description de p on for o this h position. po on The The ompan has ha he willing, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position.

The company has the willing, andqualified qualified to perform the services andjob job description for this position.

Thecompany company hasthe the n en onto oemploy emp o the hesaid a dforeign o e gnnational na ona and and app o an an A enEmployment Emp o men Permit Pe m with w hthe heDepartment Depa men intention intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department intention to employ the said foreign national andapply applyfor for anAlien Alien Employment Permit with the Department oofLabor Labo and Emp o men ––––National Na ona Capital Cap a Region Reg on located o a ed at aat967 967 Ma ga a Street, S ee Malate, Ma a e Manila Man a of of Labor and Employment National Capital Region located at 967 Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila Laborand andEmployment Employment National Capital Region located 967Maligaya Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila

C ee Opportunity Oppo un in n PHILWEB PH W B CORPORATION CORPORAT ON Career Career Opportunity in PHILWEB CORPORATION Career Opportunity in PHILWEB CORPORATION Po tion Group G oup Investment n e men Head He d Position: Position: Group Investment Head Position: Group Investment Head

N me of o o e n national n tion intending n end n to o apply pp for o the he position po tion Name Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position Name offoreign foreign national intending to apply for the position N me Ting n Kwan Kw n Kenneth Kenne h Ke Ke Name: Name: Ting Kwan Kenneth Ke Name: Ting Kwan Kenneth Ke Add e B o 9 o 19 W nu C Wood nd ubd Address: Address: Block Block 9 9 Lot Lot 19 19 Walnut Walnut St. St. ITC ITC Woodlands Woodlands Subd.

Address: Block 9 Lot 19 Walnut St. ITC Woodlands Subd.

Subd.

M nd Valenzuela, V en ue Metro Me o Manila, M n Ph pp ne 1444 1444 Malanday, Valenzuela, Metro Manila, Philippines 1444 Malanday, Philippines Malanday, Valenzuela, Metro Manila, Philippines 1444 N tion Ch ne e Nationality: Chinese Nationality: Chinese Nationality: Chinese n ended period pe od of o emp o men Three h ee (3) 3 years e Intended period of employment: Three (3) years Intended Intended period ofemployment: employment: Three (3) years

Add e Address: Address: Address: 41 One n Miguel M ue Avenue A enue Cond., Cond n 41/F, 41/F, One San Miguel Avenue Cond., San 41/F,One OneSan San Miguel Avenue Cond.,San San M ue Ave. A e cor. o Shaw h w Blvd.

B d Ortigas O ti Miguel Miguel Ave. cor.

Shaw Blvd.

Ortigas Miguel Ave. cor.

Shaw Blvd.

Ortigas Cen e Pasig P C Center, Center, Pasig City Center, PasigCity City

ÊÊÊ

N u e of o Bu ne Nature Nature of Business: Nature ofBusiness: Business: G m n technology e hno o and nd platform p tfo m services e e Gaming Gaming technology and platform services Gaming technology and platform services p o de provider provider provider Ph Web Corporation Co po tion hereby he eb declares de e that h the he above-named bo e n med foreign o e n national n tion is b e willing, w n and nd qualified qu fied to o PhilWeb PhilWeb Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to PhilWeb Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national isable, able, willing, and qualified to pe o m the he services e e and nd job ob description de ption for o this h position. po tion The he company omp n has h he intention n ention to o employ emp o the he said d perform perform the services and job description for this position.

The company has the intention to employ the said perform the services and job description for this position.

The company hasthe the intention to employ the said o e n national n tion and nd apply pp for o an n Alien A en Employment mp o men Permit Pe m with w h the he Department Dep men of o bo AND AND mp o men foreign foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department of Labor AND Employment foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department ofLabor Labor ANDEmployment Employment – N tion C p Re on o ed 967 M ee M e M n –– National National Capital Capital Region Region located located at at 967 967 Maligaya Maligaya Street, Street, Malate, Malate, Manila.

Manila.

– National Capital Region located at 967 Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila.

CCareerOpportunity O DDITO OTELECOMMUNITY COMMUN CORPORATION COR ORA ON Career Career Opportunity in DITO TELECOMMUNITY CORPORATION Opportunityin inDITO TELECOMMUNITY CORPORATION

66th h Floor F oo Tera Te a Tower, Towe B dge owne Brgy.

B gy Ugong No e Quezon C y 1110 6th 6th Floor Tera Tower, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

Ugong Norte, Quezon City 1110 Floor Tera Tower,Bridgetowne, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

UgongNorte, Norte, QuezonCity City 1110 JOB H R NG JOB HIRING JOB HIRING HIRING

HR AFFA RS & T DIRECTOR D RECTOR HR, HR, GENERAL AFFAIRS &&IT IT DIRECTOR HR,GENERAL GENERALAFFAIRS AFFAIRS IT DIRECTOR ••• ••• ••• ••• •••

C N m && &&reviews w of Co-lead Co-lead Nissin-aligned organizational transition planning via assessment reviews of changes ininorganizational organizational Co-leadNissin-aligned Nissin-alignedorganizational organizationaltransition transitionplanning planningvia viaassessment assessment reviews ofchanges changesin organizational m m frameworks; m w m of m mm structures, structures, policies and employment frameworks; development development of employee communications communications and and change structures, policies policies and and employment employment frameworks; development of employee employee communications and change change m m initiatives; wgovernance management management initiatives; and preparations for onboarding to new governance and reporting structures. management initiatives;and andpreparations preparationsfor foronboarding onboardingto tonew new governanceand andreporting reportingstructures. structures.

D HR GA T organizational m m initiatives Develop Develop HR, GA and IT organizational design including change management initiatives to execute such Develop HR, HR, GA GAand and IT IT organizational design design including including change change management management initiatives to to execute execute such such changes changes changes AAssistin m of mm m m of m Assist Assist in the development of transition communications, management management of employee concerns, concerns, execution of inthe thedevelopment development oftransition transitioncommunications, communications, management ofemployee employee concerns,execution executionof of &&transition culture culture integration transition updates initiatives cultureintegration integration&& transitionupdates updatesinitiatives initiatives O T infrastructure, m m Oversee Oversee transitions of IT infrastructure, applications, cybersecurity and service management, as as applicable; Overseetransitions transitionsof ofIT IT infrastructure,applications, applications,cybersecurity cybersecurityand andservice servicemanagement, management, asapplicable; applicable; m m and and coordinate preparations for migration and integration of enterprise systems andcoordinate coordinatepreparations preparationsfor formigration migrationand andintegration integrationof ofenterprise enterprisesystems systems C m m involving: BOD m m Co-lead Co-lead transition of governance, administration and/or and/or transition of items involving: BOD management, Co-lead transition transition of of governance, governance, administration administration and/or transition transition of of items items involving: BOD BOD management, management, m m w m m m relations &&government m compliance, m contracts contracts and legal management, workplace workplace management, government government relations government compliance, contractsand andlegal legalmanagement, management, workplacemanagement, management, government relations&& government compliance, & m m m & m m & m travel travel fleet management, document controls records management, and data privacy compliances travel&&&fleet fleetmanagement, management,document documentcontrols controls&&&records recordsmanagement, management,and anddata dataprivacy privacy&&&compliances compliances

TThisPosition PPositionrequires w qualifications: This This Position requires the following qualifications: requiresthe thefollowing following qualifications: C m BBachelor’s/College C D H m Resources, R BBusinessAdministration, AAdministration, m ••• Candidate Candidate must possess at least Bachelor’s/College Degree Degree Human Resources, Business Administration, Candidatemust mustpossess possessat atleast leastaaaBachelor’s/College DegreeHuman Human Resources,Business m TTechnology,Management M m Engineering EEngineeringor Information Information Technology, Technology, Management Engineering or related-discipline.

Information Management orrelated-discipline. related-discipline.

M m m of w w m m ••• Minimum Minimum of 10 years of progressive working experience, with at least years in senior management, in in Minimum of 10 10 years years of of progressive progressive working working experience, experience, with with at at least least 555 years years in in senior senior management, management, in FMCG m FMCG FMCG manufacturing operations FMCGmanufacturing manufacturingoperations operations D m m ••• Demonstrated Demonstrated success success in in developing developing and and executing executing people, people, administration, administration, and and technology technology strategies strategies Demonstrated success in developing and executing people, administration, and technology strategies w w m aligned aligned with business objectives; and experienced partnering with executive leadership teams alignedwith withbusiness businessobjectives; objectives;and andexperienced experiencedpartnering partneringwith withexecutive executiveleadership leadershipteams teams EExperienceworking w w m w ••• Experience Experience working within matrixed organization and collaborating with regional and global stakeholders required workingwithin withinaaamatrixed matrixedorganization organizationand andcollaborating collaboratingwith withregional regionaland andglobal globalstakeholders stakeholdersrequired required AAdvancedwritten w EEnglishcommunication mm ••• Advanced Advanced written and verbal English communication skills skills are required writtenand andverbal verbalEnglish communication skillsare arerequired required

Position Position title: Positiontitle: title:

Ne wo k Optimization Op m a on and Eme g ng Wireless W e ess Technologies Techno og es Senior Sen o Advisor Adv so 5G 5G Network Optimization and Emerging Wireless Technologies Senior Advisor 5GNetwork Network Optimization andEmerging Emerging Wireless Technologies Senior Advisor DDescription: Job Job Description: JobDescription: m m m and m Provide Provide technical advisory and expert guidance for nationwide wireless network optimization, network network quality improvement, and customer Providetechnical technicaladvisory advisoryand andexpert expertguidance guidancefor fornationwide nationwidewireless wirelessnetwork networkoptimization, optimization, networkquality qualityimprovement, improvement, andcustomer customer m experience experience enhancement. experienceenhancement. enhancement. m m m Support Support network performance analysis, analysis, capacity planning, resource optimization, and and the resolution ofofcomplex complex network network issues.

Supportnetwork networkperformance performance analysis,capacity capacityplanning, planning,resource resourceoptimization, optimization, andthe theresolution resolutionof complex networkissues. issues.

G G m m Advise Advise on 4G/5G network evolution, emerging technologies, and innovative solutions totoimprove improve network efficiency and service quality.

Adviseon on4G/5G 4G/5Gnetwork networkevolution, evolution,emerging emergingtechnologies, technologies,and andinnovative innovativesolutions solutionsto improvenetwork networkefficiency efficiencyand andservice servicequality. quality. m of m m policies, Contribute Contribute totothe the development ofofnetwork network optimization standards, standards, parameter policies, technical guidelines, and best practices.

Contributeto thedevelopment development networkoptimization optimization standards,parameter parameter policies,technical technicalguidelines, guidelines,and andbest bestpractices. practices.

Q Qualification Qualification (Education, Experience, Professional License, Skills Certification, Specialized Training): Qualification(Education, (Education,Experience, Experience,Professional ProfessionalLicense, License,Skills SkillsCertification, Certification,Specialized SpecializedTraining): Training): m mm m m Bachelor’s Bachelor’s or master’s degree ininTelecommunications Telecommunications Engineering, Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Computer Science, Science, Information Technology, Technology, or Bachelor’sor ormaster’s master’sdegree degreein Telecommunications Engineering,Electronics ElectronicsEngineering, Engineering,Computer Computer Science,Information Information Technology,or oraaa related related field. relatedfield. field. m m m m and m At At least 10 years ofofprofessional professional experience ininwireless wireless network optimization, RAN RAN performance management, management, and mobile network operations, Atleast least10 10years yearsof professionalexperience experiencein wirelessnetwork networkoptimization, optimization, RANperformance performance management, andmobile mobilenetwork networkoperations, operations, mm including including years ininaaasenior senior advisory, technical expert, or strategic consulting role within the telecommunications industry. industry. including555years yearsin senioradvisory, advisory,technical technicalexpert, expert,or orstrategic strategicconsulting consultingrole rolewithin withinthe thetelecommunications telecommunications industry.

Gnetwork m m capacity m optimization, m m Strong Strong expertise ininLTE LTE and 5G network optimization, including including coverage enhancement, capacity planning, parameter optimization, customer customer Strongexpertise expertisein LTEand and5G 5G networkoptimization, optimization, includingcoverage coverageenhancement, enhancement, capacityplanning, planning,parameter parameter optimization, customer m m and m experience experience improvement, and complex network network troubleshooting. experienceimprovement, improvement, andcomplex complex networktroubleshooting. troubleshooting.

AApplicationsmay m Applications Applications may be sent to: maybe besent sentto: to: m @ sharmaine.rendon@dito.ph sharmaine.rendon@dito.ph sharmaine.rendon@dito.ph HARMA N RENDON RRENDON NDON SHARMAINE SHARMAINE RENDON SHARMAINE CCompany/ m m Company/ Company/ Employer Employer Employer

FForInterested m m your AAlexGomez G m (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph A G m @ m or For For Interested candidates, you may submit your application to: Alex Gomez (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph or through Interestedcandidates, candidates, you youmay maysubmit submit yourapplication application to: to:Alex Gomez (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph orthrough through +639688778868) +639688778868) +639688778868) YYoumay m KKevinStanley SStanleyC. C EEnriquez(stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph @ m or You You may also contact: Kevin Stanley C. Enriquez (stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph or through +639988402400) or through mayalso alsocontact: contact:Kevin C.Enriquez (stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph orthrough through+639988402400) +639988402400)or orthrough through N U R C Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Robina Corporation at +632.516.9888 Nissin-Universal RobinaCorporation Corporationat at+632.516.9888 +632.516.9888 Comp n Emp o Name oofForeign Fo e gnNationals Na ona sintending n end ngto oapply app yfor o the he Company/Employer: Company/Employer: Name Name of Foreign Nationals intending to apply for the Company/Employer: Nameof Foreign Nationals intending to apply for the Comp n N n Un Rob n pos on Company: Company: Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Robina position: position: Company: Nissin-Universal Robina position: Co po on Name Ken Sh a anag Corporation Corporation Name: Name: Kenji Shirayanagi Corporation Name:Kenji KenjiShirayanagi Shirayanagi Comp n Address: Add h Floor FFloor oo Tera TTera Tower, Tow Add e Un 51 A North No h Tower, Towe One Shang La Company Company Address: 6th Floor Tera Tower, Address: Address: Unit Unit 51-A North Tower, One Shangri-La Company Address: 6th 6th Tower, Address: Unit 51-A 51-A North Tower, One One Shangri-La Shangri-La B dg own Brgy.

B g Ugong Ugong No Qu on City, C P a e Internal n e na Rd. Rd O ga Center, Cen e Brgy B g Wack Wa Wa Bridgetowne, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

Ugong Norte, Quezon City, Place Place Internal Rd. Ortigas Center, Brgy Wack Wack, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

UgongNorte, Norte,Quezon Quezon City, Place Internal Rd. Ortigas Ortigas Center, Brgy Wack Wack, Wack, N u o Bu n M nu u ng Manda u ong C Two 2 ea Nature Nature of of Business: Business: Manufacturing Manufacturing Mandaluyong Mandaluyong City City Two Two (2) (2) years years Nature of Business: Manufacturing Mandaluyong City - Two (2) years N ss n Un ve sa Robina Rob na Corporation Co po a on hereby he eb declares de a e that ha the he above-named abo e named foreign o e gn national na ona is ab e Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, able, w ng and and qua ed to o perform pe o m the he services e e and and ob description de p on for o this h position. po on The The ompan has ha he willing, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position.

The company has the willing, andqualified qualified to perform the services andjob job description for this position.

Thecompany company hasthe the n en onto oemploy emp o the hesaid a dforeign o e gnnational na ona and and app o an an A enEmployment Emp o men Permit Pe m with w hthe heDepartment Depa men intention intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department intention to employ the said foreign national andapply applyfor for anAlien Alien Employment Permit with the Department oofLabor Labo and Emp o men ––––National Na ona Capital Cap a Region Reg on located o a ed at aat967 967 Ma ga a Street, S ee Malate, Ma a e Manila Man a of of Labor and Employment National Capital Region located at 967 Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila Laborand andEmployment Employment National Capital Region located 967Maligaya Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila

NName m of Name Name of foreign national intending to apply for the offoreign foreignnational nationalintending intendingto toapply applyfor forthe the position position position

CCompany m NName: m DITO DDITO OTELECOMMUNITY COMMUN CORPORATION COR ORA ON Company Company Name: Name: DITO TELECOMMUNITY CORPORATION TELECOMMUNITY CORPORATION CComplete m UD NN TOWER, OW R RIZAL RRIZALDRIVE DR Complete Complete address: address: 11/F UDENNA TOWER, RIZAL DRIVE address:11/F 11/FUDENNA UDENNA TOWER, DRIVE CORN R4TH HAVENUE, NU BONIFACIO ON C OGLOBAL G O CCITY,TAGUIG GU G CORNER CORNER 4TH AVENUE, BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY, CITY, TAGUIG CORNER 4TH AVENUE, BONIFACIO GLOBAL TAGUIG CCITY CITY CITY

NName: m LIU, U KEXUN KKEXUN UN Name: Name: LIU, KEXUN LIU, AAddress:,,,Unit UUnit603 w Serendra Address: Address: Unit 603 Encino, Two Serendra corner 11th Avenue 603Encino, Encino,Two Two Serendracorner corner11th 11thAvenue Avenue G CCityTaguigCity CCityManila M Bonifacio Bonifacio Global CityTaguig City Manila BonifacioGlobal GlobalCityTaguig Manila NNationality:CHINESE CH N Nationality: Nationality: CHINESE CHINESE m m ON AR Intended Intended period of employment: ONE ONE (1) YEAR Intendedperiod periodof ofemployment: employment: ONE(1) (1)YEAR YEAR

NNatureof mm CCompany m Nature Nature of business: Telecommunications Company Company ofbusiness: business:Telecommunications Telecommunications

O TELECOMMUNITY OMM O O O hereby m foreign m the DITO DITO TELECOMMUNITY CORPORATION CORPORATION hereby declares that the above-named foreign national able, willing, and qualified totoperform perform the DITO TELECOMMUNITY CORPORATION herebydeclares declaresthat thatthe theabove-named above-named foreignnational nationalisisisable, able,willing, willing,and andqualified qualifiedto perform the m m m m services services and job description for this position.

The company has has the intention totoemploy employ the the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment servicesand andjob jobdescription descriptionfor forthis thisposition. position.The Thecompany company hasthe theintention intentionto employ thesaid saidforeign foreignnational nationaland andapply applyfor foran anAlien AlienEmployment Employment m with m of m m ---National M M M Permit Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment National Capital Region located atat967 967 Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila.

Permit withthe theDepartment Department ofLabor Laborand andEmployment Employment NationalCapital CapitalRegion Regionlocated locatedat 967Maligaya MaligayaStreet, Street,Malate, Malate,Manila.

Manila.

Ca ee Opportunity Oppo un y in n AIYOH A YOH INDUSTRIES NDUSTR ES PHILIPPINES, PH L PP NES INC. NC Career Career Opportunity in AIYOH INDUSTRIES PHILIPPINES, INC. Career Opportunity in AIYOH INDUSTRIES PHILIPPINES, INC. 66th h Floor F oo Tera Te a Tower, Towe B dge owne Brgy.

B gy Ugong No e Quezon C y 1110 6th 6th Floor Tera Tower, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

Ugong Norte, Quezon City 1110 Floor Tera Tower,Bridgetowne, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

UgongNorte, Norte, QuezonCity City 1110 JOB H R NG JOB HIRING JOB HIRING HIRING SPEC AL PROJECTS SPECIAL SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER SPECIAL PROJECTSMANAGER MANAGER Co de e op and o manage preparations ppreparations epa a on towards owa d enterprise en e p e applications app a on transitions, an on especially eespecially pe a ••• Co-develop Co-develop and co-manage preparations towards enterprise applications transitions, especially Co-develop and co-manage co-manage towards enterprise applications transitions, ERP ERP. ERP. ERP. AActas aasliaison a on among FFinance, nan e IT, T Operations, Ope a on external eexternal e na consultants on u an and bo h parent pa en stakeholders a eho de on ••• Act Act as liaison among Finance, IT, Operations, external consultants and both parent stakeholders on liaison amongFinance, IT, Operations, consultants andboth both parent stakeholders on aallprojects-related pprojects-related oe e a ed requirements equ emen to o ensure en u e stability ab of oofoperations ope a on during du ng transitions. an on all all projects-related requirements to ensure stability of operations during transitions. requirements to ensure stability operations during transitions.

Suppo go e nan e of oofproject pproject o e execution eexecution e u on by bbyidentification den a on and eescalation a a on project pproject o e risks, ddriving ng timely me ••• Support Support governance of project execution by identification and escalation project risks, driving timely Supportgovernance governance identification andescalation risks,driving timely ue resolution, e o u on and manag ng change hange requests. eque issue issue resolution, and managing change requests. issue resolution, andmanaging managing change requests.

Th Po on requires equ e the he following o ow ng qualifications: qua a on This This Position requires the following qualifications: ThisPosition Position requires the following qualifications: Cand da emust mu po e aaadegree deg eein nManagement, Managemen n o ma onTechnology, Te hno og or oorany an e a eddiscipline ddiscipline p ne ••• Candidate Candidate must possess degree in Management, Information Technology, or any related discipline Candidate mustpossess possess degree in Management,Information Information Technology, anyrelated related e e an to othe herole; o e MBA, MBA equ a en postgraduate po g adua equalification qua a onor oorprofessional pprofessional o e ona project pproject o e management managemen relevant relevant to the role; MBA, equivalent postgraduate qualification or professional project management relevant to the role; MBA,equivalent equivalent postgraduate qualification management e a on an ad an age certification certification isisan advantage certificationis anadvantage advantage AAt least ea 555 years ea of oof progressive pprogressive og e e experience eexperience pe en e in n project pproject o e management managemen bu ne transformation, an o ma on ••• At At least years of progressive experience in project management and business transformation, least years in management and and business business transformation, eespecially pe a those ho e related e a ed to o ERP, ERP equ ed especially especially those related to ERP, isisrequired required those related to ERP,is required EExperience pe en e in n manufacturing, manu a u ng FMCG mu na ona &&&JV V environments en onmen preferred ppreferred e e ed ••• Experience Experience in manufacturing, FMCG and multi-national JV environments preferred in manufacturing, FMCGand andmulti-national multi-national JV environments EExperience pe en e working wo ng within w h n aaa matrixed ma ed organization oorganization gan a on and and o abo a ng with w h regional eg ona and and gglobal oba ••• Experience Experience working within matrixed organization collaborating with regional global working within matrixed and collaborating collaborating with regional and global a eho de required equ ed stakeholders stakeholders required stakeholders required Ad an ed w en and e ba Eng h ommun a on a e equ ed ••• Advanced Advanced written verbal English communication skills are required Advancedwritten writtenand andverbal verbalEnglish Englishcommunication communicationskills skillsare arerequired required

POS T ON TITLE: TTITLE: TLE POSITION POSITION TITLE: POSITION OPERAT ONS MANAGER MANAGER OPERATIONS OPERATIONS OPERATIONS MANAGER DESCR PT ON JOB JOB DESCRIPTION: JOBDESCRIPTION: DESCRIPTION: Long e m planning pplanning ann ng to o create ccreate ea e initiatives n a ves that ha further u he the he company’s company s overall ove a goals goa s ●●● Long-term Long-term planning to create initiatives that further the company’s overall goals Long-term to initiatives that further the company’s overall goals Coo d na ng with w h different ddifferent ffe en teams eams to o foster os e exchange oofideas deas and pprovide ov de crossccrossoss ●●● Coordinating Coordinating with different teams to foster exchange of ideas and provide crossCoordinating with teams to foster exchangeof ideas andprovide eam learning ea n ng opportunities oppo un es team team learning opportunities team learning opportunities Assess ng and ana yz ng department depa men budgets budge s to o find o minimize m n m ze expenses ●●● Assessing Assessing and analyzing department budgets to find ways to minimize expenses Assessing andanalyzing analyzing department budgets to findways waysto to minimize expenses and op m ze p ofi s and optimize profits andoptimize optimizeprofits profits

Company Emp oye Company/Employer: Company/Employer: Company/Employer: Company N ss n Un ve sa Rob na Company: Company: Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Robina Company: Nissin-Universal Robina Co po a on Corporation Corporation Corporation Add ess 6th 66th h Floor FFloor oo Tera Te a Tower, Towe Company Company Address: 6th Floor Tera Tower, Company Address: Address: Tera Tower, B dge owne Brgy.

B gy Ugong No e Quezon Que onCity, C y Bridgetowne, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

Ugong Norte, Quezon City, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

UgongNorte, Norte, Quezon City, Na u e of oofBusiness: Bus ness Manufacturing Manu ac u ng Nature Nature of Business: Manufacturing Nature Business: Manufacturing

o Fo e gn Nationals Na ona s intending n end ng to o apply app y Name Name of Foreign Nationals intending to apply Name of of Foreign Foreign Nationals intending to apply o the he position: pos on for for the position: for the position: Name Name: Name: Wu Tong Name:Wu WuTong Tong Add ess Unit Un Ha u Tower Towe he Seasons Address: Address: Unit 19L Haru Tower the Seasons Address: Unit 19L 19L Haru Haru Tower the the Seasons Res dences North No h Bonifacio Bon ac o District, D s c 36th 36 h Street, S ee Residences, Residences, North Bonifacio District, 36th Street, Residences, North Bonifacio District, 36th Street, co ne 8th 88th hAvenue, Avenue Tagu gCity, C y 1637 2 years yea s corner corner 8th Avenue, Taguig City, 1637 Two (2) years corner Avenue,Taguig Taguig City, 1637---Two Two(2) (2) years

N ss n Un ve sa Robina Rob na Corporation Co po a on hereby he eby declares dec a es that ha the he above-named above named foreign o e gn national na ona Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national s able, ab e willing, w ng and qua fied to o perform pe o m the he services se v ces and ob description desc p on for o this h s position. pos on The is is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position.

The is able, willing, and qualified qualified to perform the services and job job description for this position.

The company has he n en on o emp oy he sa d o e gn na ona and app y o an A en Emp oymen company the intention to employ the said foreign national apply for Alien Employment companyhas hasthe theintention intentionto toemploy employthe thesaid saidforeign foreignnational nationaland andapply applyfor foran anAlien AlienEmployment Employment Pe m with w h the he Department Depa men of oofLabor Labo Emp oymen –––National Na ona Capital Cap a Region Reg on located oca ed at aat967 Permit Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment National Capital Region located at 967 Permit with the Department Laborand andEmployment Employment National Capital Region located 967 Ma gaya Street, S ee Malate, Ma a e Manila Man a Maligaya Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila

BDO Un bank Inc and Un on Bank of he Ph pp nes repor ed h gher firs -ha f ne ncome on Monday desp e se ng as de h gher prov s ons Ana ys s sa d nves ors a so engaged n barga n-hun ng af er eas ng geopo ca ens ons r ggered a sharp drop n g oba crude o pr ces Mos sec ora nd ces ended h gher ed by m n ng and o wh ch rose 1 11 percen and serv ces wh ch ga ned 0 99 percen F nanc a s c mbed 0 75 percen and proper y added 0 55 percen Indus r a s s pped 0 04 percen wh e ho d ng firms edged down 0 10 percen Va ue urnover was h n a P4 07 b on Advancers bea dec ners 94 o 75 wh e 67 s ocks were unchanged Fore gn nves ors were ne se ers w h ne ou flows a P196 m on Monde N ss n Corp was he op ndex ga ner ump ng 5 51 percen o P7 09 wh e D g P us In erac ve Corp dropped 1 87 percen o P9 99 Separa e y Mayn ad Wa er Serv ces Inc w o n he 30-member PSE rep ac ng Converge Informa on and Commun ca ons Techno ogy So u ons Inc as par of he oca bourse’s a es regu ar ndex rev ew The Ph pp ne S ock Exchange sa d he changes—based on rad ng ac v y from Ju y 2025 o June 2026—w ake effec Aug 3 2026 Mayn ad wh ch wen pub c a e as year w ake s spo n he ma n ndex fo ow ng he reba anc ng Converge w be removed from he PSE bu w rema n n he PSE M dCap and Serv ces nd ces The PSE a so added Abo z Equ y Ven ures Inc o he PSE D v dend Y e d Index Converge and Ph ex M n ng Corp w o n he PSE M dCap Index wh e As a Un ed Bank Corp w be removed In he sec or gauges Bank of Commerce and Na ona Re nsurance Corp of he Ph pp nes were added o he F nanc a s Index Bas c Energy Corp Mayn ad and Top L ne Bus ness Deve opmen Corp o ned he Indus r a Index wh e Lopez Ho d ngs Corp en ered he Ho d ng F rms Index The exchange a so dropped severa firms across sec or nd ces V ar- ed V s a Land & L fescapes Inc and V s aREIT Inc were removed from he Proper y Index wh e A Day Mar s Inc and A Home Corp were dropped from he Serv ces Index The Ph odr Corp was added o he M n ng and O Index The sem -annua ndex rev ew s among he as No ce o Deed o Ex a Jud c a Se emen Notice Noticeofof Deed ofof Extra-Judicial Extra-JudicialSettlement Settlement OOf The The intestate n es a e Estate Es a e of oof conduc ed under Of intestate Estate Luzv m nda Galvez Ga vez Soriano So ano Luzviminda Luzviminda Galvez Soriano curren ru es as he No ce isis s hereby he eby given ggiven ven to o the he public pub c that ha the he deed deed exchange s rev s ng Notice Notice hereby to the public that the oof extra ex a judicial ud c a settlement se emen of oof the he intestate n es a e of oof of extra judicial settlement the intestate s ndex managemen Luzv m nda Galvez Ga vez Soriano So ano has has been been executed execu ed Luzviminda Luzviminda Galvez Soriano executed po c es The upda ed by and and among among her he he s namely: name y Ali A Augus us by her heirs, heirs, namely: Ali Augustus Augustus gu de nes are Rob es So ano E sha Ga vez So ano and Robles Robles Soriano; Soriano; Elisha Elisha Galvez Galvez Soriano Soriano and Dav d Jan Jan Galvez Ga vez Soriano So ano as as per pe doc No 719 David David Galvez Soriano per doc. doc. No. No. 719; 719; expec ed o ake Page No. No 61 Book No. No X V Series Se es of oof 2025 2025 of oof Page No. 61; 61; Book No. XIV; XIV; Series dur ng he he notarial no a a Register/Book Reg s e Book of oof Atty.

A y Bernardino Be na d no effec the the notarial Register/Book Atty.

Bernardino February 2027 ndex O Lav o No a y Pub c o and n he C y o O. O. Lavitillo, Lavitillo, Notary Notary Public Public for for and in in the the City City of of Maka Decembe 15 2025 Makati; Makati; December December 15, 15, 2025.

2025. reba anc ng M (MS-JULY (MS-JULY 28/AUGUT 28/AUGUT 4/11, 2026) (MS-JULY 28/AUGUT4/11, 4/11,2026) 2026)

QUAL F CAT ONS QUALIFICATIONS: QUALIFICATIONS: QUALIFICATIONS: P ofic ency in n Nihongo N hongo ●●● Proficiency Proficiency in Nihongo Proficiency in Nihongo Compu e literate. eae ●●● Computer Computer literate.

Computer literate.

W h at aatleast eas 555years yea s work wo k related e a ed experience expe ence ●●● With With at least years work related experience With least years work related experience App ca ons may may be sen o Applications Applications sent to: Applications maybe besent sentto: to: ma panamb@ su assoc a es p ma.panamb@tsuji-associates.jp ma.panamb@tsuji-associates.jp ma.panamb@tsuji-associates.jp

Fo n e e ed candidates, and da e you ou may ma ubm your ou application app a on to: o Alex AAlex e Gomez Gome A e Gome @u om ph or oor For For Interested candidates, you may submit your application to: Alex Gomez (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph or ForInterested Interested candidates, you maysubmit submit your application to: Gomez(Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph h ough +639688778868) +639688778868 through through +639688778868) through +639688778868) ma aalso o contact: on a Kevin Ke n Stanley SStanley an e C. C En que (stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph an en que @u om ph or oorthrough h ough +639988402400) +639988402400 You You may also contact: Kevin Stanley C. Enriquez (stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph or through +639988402400) Youmay mayalso contact: Kevin C.Enriquez Enriquez (stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph through +639988402400) oorthrough h ough Nissin-Universal N n Un e a Robina Rob na Corporation Co po a on at aat+632.516.9888 +632 516 9888 or or through Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation at +632.516.9888 through Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation +632.516.9888

Gem n generated mage

oofforeign o e gn national na ona intending n end ng Name Name of foreign national intending Nameof foreign national intending o apply app y for o the he position pos on to to apply for the position to apply for the position Name MR H ROSH YAMAGUCHI YAMAGUCH Name: Name: MR. HIROSHI YAMAGUCHI Name:MR. MR.HIROSHI HIROSHI YAMAGUCHI Add e 5C PO NT Address: Address: 5C, 5C, PARK TERRACES POINT Address: 5C, PARK PARK TERRACES TERRACES POINT POINT TOWER WEST ST MAKAT C TY TOWER, TOWER, ST., MAKATI CITY TOWER,WEST WESTST., ST.,MAKATI MAKATICITY CITY Na ona Nationality: Nationality: JAPANESE JAPANESE Nationality: JAPANESE n ended Period Pe odof oofEmployment: Emp o men TWO 2 YEARS Intended Intended Period of Employment: TWO (2) YEARS Intended Period Employment: TWO(2) (2) YEARS

Company Emp oye Company/ Company/ Employer Company/Employer Employer Compan Name A YOH INDUSTRIES NDUSTR ES Company Company Name: AIYOH INDUSTRIES Company Name: Name: AIYOH AIYOH INDUSTRIES PH L PP NES INC NC PHILIPPINES PHILIPPINES INC PHILIPPINES INC Comp e e Add e BLK 66-5 5 && 66-7 7 Complete Complete Address: 6-5 6-7 Complete Address: Address: BLK BLK 6-5 & 6-7 AMPLEF LED SME PARK LLIMA MA AMPLEFILED AMPLEFILED SME PARK, LIMA AMPLEFILED SME PARK, PARK, LIMA CENTER LLIPA PA CITY C TY TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY CENTER, LIPA CITY TECHNOLOGY CENTER, CENTER, LIPA CITY Na u e of oofBusiness: Bu ne MANUFACTURING MANUFACTUR NG Nature Nature of Business: MANUFACTURING Nature Business: MANUFACTURING

A YOH INDUSTRIES NDUSTR ES PHILIPPINES PH L PP NES INC NC hereby he eby declares dec a es that ha the he above-named above named foreign o e gn AIYOH AIYOH INDUSTRIES PHILIPPINES INC hereby declares that the above-named foreign AIYOH INDUSTRIES PHILIPPINES INC hereby declares that the above-named foreign na ona is s able, ab e willing, w ng and qua fied to o perform pe o m the he services se v ces and ob description desc p on for o this hs national national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this national is able, willing, andqualified qualified to perform the services andjob job description for this pos on The he intention n en on to o employ emp oy the he said sa d foreign o e gn national na ona and app y for o position. position.

The company has the intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for position.

Thecompany companyhas hasthe the intention to employ the said foreign national andapply apply for A en Employment Emp oymen Permit Pe m with w h the he Bureau Bu eau of oof Local Loca Emp oymen (BLE) BLE located oca ed at aat 6th 66th h an an Alien Employment Permit with the Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) located at 6th anAlien Alien Employment Permit with the Bureau Local Employment Employment (BLE) located F oo BF Condom n um So ana S Co A So ano Ave n amu os Man a Floor Floor Condominium Solana St. Cor. A. Soriano Ave. Intramuros, Manila.

FloorBF BFCondominium CondominiumSolana SolanaSt. St.Cor. Cor.A. A.Soriano SorianoAve. Ave.Intramuros, Intramuros,Manila.

Manila.

Career Career Opportunity Grand Plaza Hotel Corporation CareerOpportunity OpportunityinininGrand GrandPlaza PlazaHotel HotelCorporation Corporation

66th h Floor F oo Tera Te a Tower, Towe B dge owne Brgy.

B gy Ugong Ugong No e Quezon Quezon C y 1110 1110 6th 6th Floor Tera Tower, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

Norte, City Floor Tera Tower,Bridgetowne, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

UgongNorte, Norte, QuezonCity City 1110 H R NG JOB JOB HIRING JOB HIRING HIRING D RECTOR SALES SALES DIRECTOR SALESDIRECTOR DIRECTOR C m m m ••• Co-manage Co-manage sales sales performance, ensure ensure uninterrupted support to customers, distributions distributions and key Co-manage sales performance, performance, ensure uninterrupted uninterrupted support support to to customers, customers, distributions and and key key accounts, accounts, and building business relationships throughout and after transitions accounts,and andbuilding buildingbusiness businessrelationships relationshipsthroughout throughoutand andafter aftertransitions transitions D SSalesorganizational m m initiatives ••• Develop Develop Sales organizational design including change management initiatives to execute such change, DevelopSales organizationaldesign designincluding includingchange changemanagement management initiativesto toexecute executesuch suchchange, change, m S and and co-lead transition of systems, processes, procedures, and reporting relevant to Sales andco-lead co-leadtransition transitionof ofsystems, systems,processes, processes,procedures, procedures,and andreporting reportingrelevant relevantto toSales Sales PParticipate in mm ••• Participate Participate in business planning, support integration of commercial policies, policies, pricing strategies and in business business planning, planning, support support integration integration of of commercial commercial policies, pricing pricing strategies strategies and and w reporting reporting practices, where applicable reportingpractices, practices,where whereapplicable applicable AAlign commercial mm N m ••• Align Align commercial strategies strategies of NURC and Nissin, identify opportunities for market expansion and commercial strategies of of NURC NURC and and Nissin, Nissin, identify identify opportunities opportunities for for market market expansion expansion and and w and m portfolio portfolio growth, and evaluate channel route-to-market opportunities opportunities portfoliogrowth, growth, andevaluate evaluatechannel channel&&&route-to-market route-to-market opportunities BBuild relationships w m mm mm w ••• Build Build relationships with strategic customers, and and immerse in in communications involving involving ownership relationships with with strategic strategic customers, customers, and immerse immerse in communications communications involving ownership ownership w transitions, transitions, when necessary. transitions,when whennecessary. necessary.

TThisPosition PPositionrequires w qualifications: This This Position requires the following qualifications: requiresthe thefollowing following qualifications: C m BBachelor’s/College C D BBusinessAdministration, AAdministration, m M ••• Candidate Candidate must possess at least Bachelor’s/College Degree Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Marketing, Candidatemust mustpossess possessat atleast leastaaaBachelor’s/College Degreein inBusiness Marketing, M m Management Management or or any any related related discipline; MBA or equivalent postgraduate qualification isisan an advantage Management or any relateddiscipline; discipline;MBA MBAor orequivalent equivalentpostgraduate postgraduatequalification qualificationis anadvantage advantage AAtleast SSalesexperience, w ••• At At least 10 years of progressive Sales experience, with at least years in senior leadership role; least10 10years yearsof ofprogressive progressiveSales experience,with withat atleast least555years yearsin inaaasenior seniorleadership leadershiprole; role; PProventrack w market m ••• Proven Proven track record of delivering sustainable revenue growth, market share expansion, and profitability trackrecord recordof ofdelivering deliveringsustainable sustainablerevenue revenuegrowth, growth, marketshare shareexpansion, expansion,and andprofitability profitability m m m m improvement; improvement; and and extensive experience managing sales organization across multiple channels, improvement; and extensive extensive experience experience managing managing sales sales organization organization across across multiple multiple channels, channels, m and m customers customers and geographic markets customers andgeographic geographicmarkets markets EExperiencein m m V environments m ••• Experience Experience in manufacturing, FMCG and multi-national JV environments preferred preferred inmanufacturing, manufacturing,FMCG FMCGand andmulti-national multi-national&&&JV JV environments preferred EExperience working w w m w ••• Experience Experience working within matrixed organization and collaborating with regional and global working within within aaa matrixed matrixed organization organization and and collaborating collaborating with with regional regional and and global global stakeholders stakeholders required stakeholdersrequired required AAdvancedwritten w E mm ••• Advanced Advanced written and and verbal verbal English English communication communication skills skills are are required required written and verbal English communication skills are required FFor Interested m m your AAlex Gomez G m (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph A G m @ m or For For Interested candidates, you may submit your application to: Alex Gomez (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph or Interested candidates, candidates, you you may may submit submit your application application to: to: Alex Gomez (Alex.Gomez@urc.com.ph or ++639688778868) through through +639688778868) through+639688778868) YYoumay m KKevinStanley SStanleyC. C EEnriquez(stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph @ m or ++639988402400)or You You may also contact: Kevin Stanley C. Enriquez (stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph or through +639988402400) or mayalso alsocontact: contact:Kevin C.Enriquez (stan.enriquez@urc.com.ph orthrough through+639988402400) or N U R C ++632.516.9888 through through Nissin-Universal Robina Robina Corporation at +632.516.9888 throughNissin-Universal Nissin-Universal RobinaCorporation Corporationat at+632.516.9888 Company Emp oye o Fo e gn Nationals Na ona s intending n end ng to o apply app y for o Company/Employer: Company/Employer: Name Name of Foreign Nationals intending to apply for Company/Employer: Name of of Foreign Foreign Nationals intending to apply for Company N ss n Un ve sa Rob na heposition: pos on Company: Company: Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Robina the the position: Company: Nissin-Universal Robina the position: Co po a on Name Sh a Koji Ko Corporation Corporation Name: Name: Shirai Koji Corporation Name:Shirai Shirai Koji Add ess 6th 66th h Floor FFloor oo Tera Te a Tower, Towe Add e Unit Un Ea Towe Se end a McKinley M Kne Company Company Address: 6th Floor Tera Tower, Address: Address: Unit 12E East Tower One Serendra, McKinley Company Address: Address: Tera Tower, Address: Unit12E 12EEast EastTower TowerOne OneSerendra, Serendra, McKinley B dge owne Brgy.

B gy Ugong Ugong No e Quezon Que onCity, C y Pa wa BGC, BGC Tagu gCity, C 1634 Two 2 years ea Bridgetowne, Bridgetowne, Brgy.

Norte, Quezon City, Parkway, Parkway, BGC, Taguig City, (2) years Bridgetowne, Brgy.

UgongNorte, Norte, Quezon City, Parkway, BGC,Taguig Taguig City,1634 1634---Two Two(2) (2) years Na u e of oofBusiness: Bus ness Manufacturing Manu ac u ng Nature Nature of Business: Manufacturing Nature Business: Manufacturing N ss n Un ve sa Robina Rob na Corporation Co po a on hereby he eb declares de a e that ha the he above-named abo e named foreign o e gn national na ona is Nissin-Universal Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is ab e willing, w ng and qua ed to o perform pe o m the he services e e and ob description de p on for o this h position. po on The ompan able, able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position.

The company able, willing, andqualified qualified to perform the services andjob job description for this position.

Thecompany company ha he intention n en on to o employ emp o the he said a d foreign o e gn national na ona and app o an A en Employment Emp o men Permit Pe m with w h has has the intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with hasthe the intention to employ the said foreign national andapply applyfor for anAlien Alien Employment Permit with he Depa men o Labo and Emp o men – Na ona Cap a Reg on o a ed a 967 Ma ga a S ee the the Department of Labor Employment National Capital Region located at Maligaya Street, theDepartment Departmentof ofLabor Laborand andEmployment Employment––National NationalCapital CapitalRegion Regionlocated locatedat at967 967Maligaya MaligayaStreet, Street, Ma a e Manila Man a Malate, Malate, Manila Malate, Manila

MManager Position Position title: General Manager Positiontitle: title:General GeneralManager Vacancy Vacancy (1) Vacancy(1) (1) Job Job Description: JobDescription: Description: mmarketing,operating, Mplans  Prepares Prepares marketing, operating, CAPEX/Spec R&M plans Preparesmarketing, operating,CAPEX/Spec CAPEX/SpecR&M R&M plans mmonthlyforecasts MMarketingPlan,  Prepares Prepares monthly forecasts for balance the year including Marketing Plan, P&L and cash flow Preparesmonthly forecastsfor forbalance balanceofofofthe theyear yearincluding includingMarketing Plan,P&L P&Land andcash cashflow flow MMonitorsand m and m profitability  Monitors Monitors and analyses P&L statements and forecasts optimize profitability andanalyses analysesP&L P&Lstatements statements andforecasts forecaststototooptimize optimize profitability m  Ensures Ensures the productivity initiative contributes the long term success the Hotel Ensuresthe theproductivity productivityinitiative initiativecontributes contributestototothe thelong longterm termsuccess successofofofthe theHotel Hotel  Ensures Ensures that effective fiscal controls are place Ensuresthat thateffective effectivefiscal fiscalcontrols controlsare areinininplace place Qualification Qualification (Education, Experience, Professional License, Skills Certification, Specialized Training): Qualification(Education, (Education,Experience, Experience,Professional ProfessionalLicense, License,Skills SkillsCertification, Certification,Specialized SpecializedTraining): Training): 

mmanagement m experience Over Over 15 years hotel retail chain management experience Over15 15years yearsofofofhotel hotelretail retailchain chainmanagement experience mmaybe Applications Applications may be sent to: Applicationsmay besent sentto: to: m ofofofCompany m Name Name Company HR: HR: Therese Arteche Name Company HR:Therese ThereseArteche Arteche m @m m m Email Email address: Therese.Arteche@millenniumhotels.com Emailaddress: address:Therese.Arteche@millenniumhotels.com Therese.Arteche@millenniumhotels.com

m m Company/ Company/ Employer Employer Company/ Employer

m of Name Name ofofforeign foreign national intending totoapply apply for the position Name foreignnational nationalintending intendingto applyfor forthe theposition position

m m Company Company Name: Name: Company Name:

m Kyungku Name: Name: Kyungku Han Name: KyungkuHan Han

Grand Grand Plaza Hotel Corporation GrandPlaza PlazaHotel HotelCorporation Corporation

Address: Address: Pasay City Address:Pasay PasayCity City

m Complete Complete address: address: Complete address: MManilaRoxas 10 10 Floor, The Heritage Hotel, Manila Roxas Blvd., Corner Edsa 10thththFloor, Floor,The TheHeritage HeritageHotel, Hotel,Manila RoxasBlvd., Blvd.,Corner CornerEdsa Edsa Extension Extension Pasay City ExtensionPasay PasayCity City

Nationality: Nationality: Korean Nationality:Korean Korean m m Two Intended Intended period ofofemployment: employment: Two (2) year/s Intendedperiod periodof employment: Two(2) (2)year/s year/s

m corporation m engaged Nature Nature ofofbusiness: business: domestic corporation primarily engaged the Natureof business:aaadomestic domestic corporationprimarily primarily engagedinininthe the hotel hotel industry hotelindustry industry m foreign m the Grand Grand Plaza Hotel Corporation hereby declares that the above-named foreign national able, willing, and qualified perform the services and job GrandPlaza PlazaHotel HotelCorporation Corporationhereby herebydeclares declaresthat thatthe theabove-named above-named foreignnational nationalisisisable, able,willing, willing,and andqualified qualifiedtototoperform perform theservices servicesand andjob job m m the m m Permit m with description description for this position.

The company has has the intention employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Bureau ofof descriptionfor forthis thisposition. position.The Thecompany company hasthe theintention intentiontototoemploy employ thesaid saidforeign foreignnational nationaland andapply applyfor foran anAlien AlienEmployment Employment Permit withthe theBureau Bureauof m m m m m m M Local Local Employment located 6F First Intramuros BF Condominium, Solana St. cor.

A. Soriano Ave., Intramuros, Manila.

LocalEmployment Employmentlocated locatedatatat6F 6FFirst FirstIntramuros IntramurosBF BFCondominium, Condominium,Solana SolanaSt. St.cor. cor.A. A.Soriano SorianoAve., Ave.,Intramuros, Intramuros,Manila.

Manila. m mthe mmayfile Any Any Filipino jobseeker who competent, able able and willing perform the services for which the foreign national intended be hired for, may file an objection AnyFilipino Filipinojobseeker jobseekerwho whoisisiscompetent, competent, ableand andwilling willingtototoperform perform theservices servicesfor forwhich whichthe theforeign foreignnational nationalisisisintended intendedtototobe behired hiredfor, for,may filean anobjection objection m m located m m m Solana m MManila.after atatatBureau Bureau ofofLocal Local Employment located atat6F 6F First Intramuros BF BF Condominium, Solana St. cor.

A. Soriano Ave., Intramuros, Manila.

Manila. after this Bureauof LocalEmployment Employment locatedat 6FFirst FirstIntramuros Intramuros BFCondominium, Condominium, SolanaSt. St.cor. cor.A. A.Soriano SorianoAve., Ave.,Intramuros, Intramuros, afterthis this m m m m m mm publication. publication.

Please inform Bureau ofofLocal Local Employment, you have any information on criminal offenses committed by the foreign national. publication.Please Pleaseinform informBureau Bureauof LocalEmployment, Employment,ifififyou youhave haveany anyinformation informationon oncriminal criminaloffenses offensescommitted committedby bythe theforeign foreignnational. national.

CYAN MAGENTA MAGENTA YELLOW YELLOW BLACK BLACK CYAN

BUSINESS

B3 TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com

UnionBank’s first-half income doubled to P6.9b

Vena raises $310m for solar plant

By Jenniffer B. Austria

ENA Energy said Monday it achieved financial close on the 500-megawatt-peak Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project in Bugallon, Pangasinan, securing $310 million in debt financing from a syndicate of eight international banks.

UNIONBANK of the Philippines (UBP) more than doubled its net income to P6.9 billion in the first half of 2026 on the back of consumer lending growth, higher fee income and improved asset quality.

Earnings grew 113 percent from a year earlier, with the parent bank accounting for 96 percent of group profit as its core businesses continued to perform strongly, the company said.

Net revenues rose 9 percent yearon-year to P43.1 billion, supported by growth in consumer loans, current and savings account (CASA) deposits and fee income.

Net interest income increased 8 percent to P33.7 billion as loans expanded. Consumer lending remained the bank’s main growth driver, accounting for 61 percent of its total loan portfolio.

Gross consumer loans grew 10 percent, led by credit cards and personal loans, which together expanded 18 percent.

The bank’s net interest margin improved by 40 basis points to 6.9 percent, helped by a 7-p0ercent increase in CASA balances.

Non-interest income also grew 12 percent to P9.4 billion, driven by higher fees from cards, wealth management, bancassurance and other everyday banking transactions. UnionBank said the growth was supported by its 19.3 million customer base.

The bank said it continued to build reserves to support loan growth and strengthen its balance sheet following portfolio reviews. Despite higher provisions, credit costs fell 19 percent to P9.4 billion as asset quality continued to improve.

“We continue to build on the actions we began in 2025 to enhance our balance sheet while sharpening our focus on the businesses that drive long-term value for the group,” UnionBank chief financial officer Manuel Lozano said in a statement to the stock exchange Monday.

“Our customer franchise remains strong, asset quality continues to improve, and we are confident that we can continue the positive profitability trajectory,” he said.

Lozano said UnionBank was also taking steps to simplify the group and rationalize businesses where resources could be better deployed as part of its strategy to focus on its core capabilities and strengthen its position in next-generation banking.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

V

The lenders are BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, DBS Bank Ltd., ING Bank N.V., Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., MUFG Bank Ltd., Standard Chartered Bank and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp.

Vena Group chief investment officer and Vena Nexus global head Simone

Grasso said in a statement that “achieving financial close for the Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project reflects the continued confidence of our banking partners in Vena Energy’s ability to develop, finance and deliver large-scale renewable energy infrastructure.”

“As the Philippines advances its

clean energy transition, we remain committed to mobilising long-term capital for projects that strengthen energy security and deliver lasting value to communities and stakeholders,” Grasso said.

The Ixus Bugallon facility sits next to Vena Energy’s existing 550-MWp Bugallon Solar Power Project and will raise the company’s total capacity in Pangasinan to about 1 gigawattpeak once completed, expanding one of the country’s largest solar development clusters.

The Department of Energy awarded the project under its second Green Energy Auction Program in support

of national renewable energy targets.

Once operational, the project is expected to generate enough renewable power for about 650,000 Philippine households while avoiding more than 570,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, equivalent to removing around 125,000 vehicles from the road or planting 9.5 million trees.

The project is also expected to save an estimated 830 million liters of water per year compared with conventional energy generation.

Vena Energy, part of Vena Global Group Pte. Ltd., develops renewable energy and digital infrastructure solutions across the Asia-Pacific region.

ART FOR EVERYONE.

Mallgoers check out different artworks during the opening of the Art for Everyone 2026 exhibition at SM City East Ortigas on July 22, 2026. The exhibition is part of SM Supermalls’ nationwide campaign, which is being held simultaneously in 26 malls across the country. It features a diverse collection of original artworks, including paintings, mixed media, photography, digital art, 3D-printed pieces, and other experimental works by emerging and established Filipino artists from Luzon.

Norman Cruz

ACEN developing nearly 1,000 MW of solar, battery storage in Zambales ACEN Corp. is developing nearly 1 gigawatt of solar and battery storage projects in Zambales, transforming the province into one of the Philippines’ largest renewable energy hubs, the company said Monday.

The portfolio includes the 585-megawatt SanMar Solar project, built across more than 500 hectares of lahar-covered land, and the 363-MW Palauig Solar project, one of the largest solar developments in the country.

Together, the two facilities represent 948 MW of renewable energy capacity, of which about 450 MW is already operational. The remaining capacity is under construction and is expected to

be completed within 2027.

ACEN managing director and chief operating officer for Philippine development and operations Miguel de Jesus said the projects aim to deliver benefits beyond power generation.

“At ACEN, we believe renewable energy projects should create value far beyond the electricity they generate,” de Jesus said.

“In Zambales, we are not only building one of the country’s largest renewable energy hubs—we are investing in infrastructure, creating local jobs, supporting indigenous communities, and strengthening the country’s long-term energy security,” he said.

ACEN recently began constructing 1,660 megawatt-hours of battery energy storage systems across its solar facilities in the province.

The battery investments will allow power generated during periods of high solar output to be stored and delivered when electricity demand peaks, including during evening hours and periods of reduced solar generation, improving grid stability and supporting the growing share of renewable energy in the Philippines.

Once fully operational, ACEN’s solar facilities in Zambales are expected to generate about 1,400 gigawatt-hours of clean electricity annu-

ally, enough to power around 340,000 households while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.

The company has completed 14 kilometers of transmission infrastructure connecting its renewable energy facilities to the Luzon grid, with an additional 22 kilometers under construction to support growing demand for clean power.

Throughout the development of its Zambales projects, ACEN prioritized local hiring, with about 80 percent of its workforce drawn from surrounding communities, predominantly members of the Ayta Indigenous Peoples community. Alena Mae S. Flores

Economy’s management needs a generalissimo

—“—

THE Philippine economy exists and functions under a form of government in which power is shared equally by three institutions operating under a constitutions, namely, the institution that makes the laws (the Legislature), the institutions that implements the laws (the Executive Department) and the institution that decides whether the actions of the legislature and the Executive Department are in accordance with the Constitution (Judiciary).

The President of the Philippines is the nation’s chief economic policymaker and he appoints Cabinet members who will assist him in executing the economic policies approved by the legislature.

This situation is entirely different in the parliamentary system of government. In that system, the people who make the laws and the people who execute the laws are housed in one institution, namely, parliament. The men and women who head the Cabinet departments are members of parliament (MPs). The people who make the laws are the people who will implement them. Thus, there is no need for coordination between parliament and the government of the day because the Cabinet members are MPs. Indeed, in his classic book on government, British author Sir Ivor Jennings refers to the parliamentary system as “Cabinet Government.”

In contrast, because of the distribution of power among three branches of government, coordination between the Legislature and the Executive Department is necessary in order that the left hand of the government will know what the right hand is doing, so to speak. Otherwise, Congress will be approving, and the Executive Department will be implementing laws that are irrelevant to the real needs of Philippine society. The hearings called by Congressional committees to elicit views and testimony from Cabinet members and other high-rank Executive Department personages are the most visible manifestation of coordination between the Legislature and the Executive Department.

Where economic matters are concerned, coordination between the Executive Department and Congress is undertaken by two entities, namely, the Legislative–Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) and the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC). DBCC is an Executive Department body, but concerned Congressional committees are invited to participate in its work.

Coordination is fine, and the works of LEDAC and DBCC is useful, but eight decades after being granted independence by the last colonial power, and despite its abundant human, physical and cultural resources, the Philippines remains an economically weak

The management of the Philippine economy needs an individual who will clearly be the primus inter pares among the economic managers. country where around 20 percent of the national population lives below the official poverty line. Notwithstanding its recent ascent to upper-middle-income country status, the Philippines remains a Third World country and is unlikely to graduate out of that status anytime soon.

Economically, the Philippines has been an underperforming country. With its abundant physical and human resources, it should have been doing much better. Some countries with less favorable resource endowments have performed better than the Philippines.

There are numerous reasons—some policy-related, some structural — for the Philippines’ economic underperformance. Certainly one of the leading reasons has been the weak framework for the management of this country’s economic resources.

Because of the Philippine system of government, the hallmarks for the management of the Philippine economy have been coordination and inter-departmental courtesy. Those hallmarks have not gotten the Philippine economy far. All too often talk-talk has not been converted to walk-walk.

The management of the Philippine economy needs an individual who will clearly be the primus inter pares among the economic managers, a person possessed of the respect, the stature and the gravitas to lay down the overall direction of the economy and to supersede the decisions of the men who make up the economic management team. The Philippine economy needs an individual who, because of his gravitas and stature, can prevail over the Frederick Gos, the Ralph Rectos and the Arsenio Balisacans of the government.

In sum, the Philippine economy needs an economic generalissimo.

The closest that the country has gotten to having such a person was during the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. (with Cesar Virata) and during the administration of President Diosdado Macapagal (with Armand Fabella). Their economic-management team colleagues deferred to Messrs Virata and Fabella out of confidence and respect.

Enough with coordination. Bring on the economic generalissimo so that the underperformance of the Philippine economy will finally stop. (llagasjessa @yahoo.com)

MARKETS AND SECURITIES REGULATION DEPARTMENT IN THE MATTER OF

ARTHALAND CORPORATION (Registrant)

: : : x ------------------------------------------ x

NOTICE

REGISTRATION OF SECURITIES Securing & Expanding Capital for Real Estate Non-Traditional Securities (SEC RENT)

Notice is hereby given that on 22 July 2026, a sworn Registration Statement under SEC RENT has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) on behalf of ARTHALAND, INC. (the “Company”) for the registration of 166 Lease Agreements under the Consolidated Leasing Solution Program1 (“CLS”) pursuant to Section 8 and 12 of the Securities Regulation Code. These are comprised of the following:

Project Name Location No. of Lease Agreements MARKETS AND SECURITIES REGULATION Cebu Exchange Salinas Drive Cebu City DEPARTMENT 142 Savya Financial Center Arca South, Taguig City 24 166 IN THE MATTER OFTotal

REGISTRATION OF SECURITIES According to the documents are the directors ARTHALAND CORPORATION : presented, the following Securing &persons Expanding Capital for and/or (Registrant) Real Estate Non-Traditional Securities executive officers of the Company:: : (SEC RENT) x -----------------------------------------x Name Position

Ernest K. Cuyegkeng Chairman of the Board/Director NOTICE Jaime C. González Vice Chairman and President/Director Ricardo Gabriel T. Po Vice Chairman/Director Notice is hereby given that on 22 July 2026, a sworn Registration Statement under Cornelio S. Mapa, Jr. Treasurer and Executive Vice President, Director SEC RENT has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) on Jaime Enrique Y. González Director behalf of ARTHALAND, INC. (the “Company”) for the registration of 166 Lease Agreements Christopher Paulus Nicholas T. Po Director under the Consolidated Leasing Solution Program1 (“CLS”) pursuant to Section 8 and 12 of B. Sicat Director of the following: theHans Securities Regulation Code. These are comprised Eleanor M. Hilado Independent Director Location No. of Lease Agreements Ma. RowenaProject T. Tan Name Independent Director Cebu Exchange Salinas Drive Cebu City 142 Riva Khristine V. Maala Corporate Secretary, General Counsel, and Savya Financial Center Arca South, Taguig City 24 Compliance Officer Total 166 Sheryll P. Verano Executive Vice President and Investor Relations Officer According to the documents presented, the following persons are the directors and/or Oliver L.officers Chan of the Company: Executive Vice President executive Marivic S. Victoria Chief Finance Officer Leilani G. Kanapi Vice President Name Position JosephK.R.Cuyegkeng Feliciano Audit and Head Ernest Chairman of Risk the Board/Director Jaime C. Miguel González Vice Chairman and President/Director Alex D. Vice President Ricardo Gabriel T. Po Vice Felix Cicero C. Tiukinhoy ViceChairman/Director President Cornelio S. Mapa, Jr. Treasurer and Executive Vice President, Director Maria Elena M. Fajardo Vice President 1 Jaime Enrique Y. González Multiple owners appoint the Company asDirector the exclusive leasing agent to offer their units as one and consolidated Gerard unit Vincent Casanova Information and Business Technology Head Data Christopher Paulus Nicholas T. Po Director lease pool to third party tenants, with the corresponding income distributed to participating unit owners in Privacy lease Officer Hans B. Sicat Director accordance with the terms and conditions of theAssistant Relevant Contracts Margeline C. Hidalgo Corporate Secretary Eleanor M. Hilado Independent Director Ê· The SEC Headquarters, 7907 Makati Avenue Ma. Rowena T. Tan Independent Director Salcedo Bel-air, Makati City TheVillage, Commission has adopted an alternative mode of viewing and/or downloading the Khristine Maala Corporate thereto Secretary, andparties to access □ Riva (+63 2) 5322 7696V. said documents and any subsequent amendments byGeneral enablingCounsel, interested Compliance Officer | imessagemo@sec.gov.ph thewww.sec.gov.ph same through the Commission’s website (www.sec.gov.ph) and the Company’s website Sheryll P. Verano Executive Vice President and Investor Relations https://linktr.ee/secphilippines (https://arthaland.com).

Officer Oliver L. Chan Executive Vice President Marivic S. Victoria Chief Finance Officer Leilani G. Kanapi Vice President ATTY. OLIVER O. LEONARDO Joseph R. Feliciano Audit and Risk Head Director Alex D. Miguel Vice President

1

Multiple unit owners appoint the Company as the exclusive leasing agent to offer their units as one consolidated lease pool to third party tenants, with the corresponding lease income distributed to participating unit owners in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Relevant Contracts

· The SEC Headquarters, 7907 Makati Avenue Salcedo Village, Bel-air, Makati City □ (+63 2) 5322 7696 www.sec.gov.ph | imessagemo@sec.gov.ph https://linktr.ee/secphilippines

ENVIRONMENT

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TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com RAY S. EÑANO, Editor

& SUSTAINABILIT Y

Sustainable Laguna de Bay fishing pushed C

Lake Sebu named FAO Village for climate resilience

By Christopher Hedreyda, Michael Lalap

ALAMBA CITY, Laguna—The government is strengthening its science-based approach to fisheries management by deploying a new generation of technical enumerators, who will gather reliable data across the Laguna de Bay to protect and restore it a viable food source for Filipinos,

The initiative, led by the Department of Agriculture’s National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) and funded by the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), ensures that fisheries projects and development are always aligned with scientific evidence.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stressed the importance of Laguna de Bay, the country’s largest lake, as a source of food for Metro Manila and its neighboring provinces.

“Laguna de Bay remains one of the country’s most important inland fisheries, supplying fresh fish to Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

Keeping the lake productive through science-based management is essential to ensuring a stable food supply while preserving the livelihoods of thousands of fisher folk,” Tiu Laurel said.

The department hired new technical data enumerators to be stationed in Laguna and Rizal, and in Muntinlupa City, which will play a key role in collecting information on fish catches, fish species identification, biological sampling, fishing gear identification, and standardized survey protocols, which will be used for appropriate management interventions.

“Our enumerators are the eyes and ears of fisheries science. They are the boots on the ground whose work transforms every fish landing and every field survey into the evidence

we need to make better decisions for Laguna de Bay,” said DA-NFRDI executive director Dr. Ma. Theresa Mutia.

According to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Esther Bayate, a strong foundation and training for enumerators will help the government ensure that the fisheries policies are based on scientific inquiries.

“Reliable fisheries data is the backbone of sustainable resource management. Every accurate record gathered in the field helps us make better decisions to protect our fisheries, improve productivity, and secure the livelihoods of our fishing communities,” Bayate said.

Enforcement of environmental laws to ensure the conservation of Laguna de Bay is a top priority, according to the LLDA, assuring the public that it continues to closely monitor ecological and man-made actions to ensure full compliance with environmental laws and the total protection of the lake basin.

The inter-agency effort on stock assessment is expected to generate the scientific evidence needed to guide conservation measures, rebuild fish stocks, balance environmental protection, and ensure the sustainability of Laguna de Bay to provide food for the communities and contribute to the food security of the country for generations to come. PIA-Laguna

By Marita Moaje

Lake Sebu in South Cotabato (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)

LAKE Sebu, a farming community shaped by the traditions of the T’boli and Ubo-Manobo Indigenous Peoples, has been recognized as the Philippines’ first United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Village for its climate resilience, sustainable food systems and environmental stewardship.

The Climate Change Commission (CCC) last week said the recognition places Lake Sebu among more than 300 villages worldwide in the FAO Villages global network and highlights how local communities can provide practical models for adapting to climate change.

“Today’s recognition says that Lake Sebu possesses something whose value extends beyond its boundaries,” CCC vice chairperson and executive director Robert E.A.

Borje said during the unveiling of the FAO Village marker at the Gono Menos Bnek, or the Lake Sebu Rice Museum, on July 16.

The event gathered local officials, development partners and members of indigenous communities to celebrate the milestone.

“Something worth strengthening.

Something worth protecting.

Something from which the rest of the world can continue to learn. In that sense, this recognition is not only about Lake Sebu. It is also about our shared responsibility,” Borje said.

Borje said the recognition reflects the goals of the Philippine National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2023-2050, the country’s long-term climate resilience strategy developed under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

The plan integrates the protection of indigenous culture and heritage as part of climate adaptation efforts.

The FAO cited Lake Sebu for its efforts in conserving natural heritage and biodiversity, sustaining food traditions, linking food culture and rural heritage with education, hospitality and tourism and promoting rural development through innovative scientific and digital solutions.

The designation recognizes practices that have long been part of life in the municipality. For generations, the T’boli and UboManobo communities have cultivated heirloom rice varieties, protected forests and freshwater ecosystems and preserved Indigenous knowledge that supports food production and biodiversity. PNA

Gov’t unveils program for better nutrition and environmental care

By Joshua Sugay CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro—Employees of the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) MIMAROPA are expected to strengthen healthy eating habits and environmental stewardship following the launch of Project S.I.B.O.L. (Sabayang Itanim, Bantayan,

Obserbahan, at Linangin) as part of the agency’s observance of Nutrition Month 2026.

The initiative, conceptualized by Officer-in-Charge Assistant Regional Director Mark Laurence Guilles, supports this year’s Nutrition Month theme, “Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan!”, by encouraging employees to grow food and ornamental plants while promoting sustainable environmental practices.

During the launch, each employee planted a vegetable, herb, medicinal plant, ornamental plant, or other potted plant using reusable or recycled containers to help reduce waste and encourage resource conservation. The Department of Agriculture (DA) MIMAROPA provided seeds for the activity.

Acting Regional Director Gloren R. Hinlo said the project demonstrates the connection between nutrition, health and environmental responsibility.

“Project S.I.B.O.L. reminds us that proper nutrition begins not only with what we eat, but also with how we care for the environment that provides our food. Through simple and collective actions, we can cultivate healthier habits and a greener workplace,” Hinlo said.

CPD-MIMAROPA photo

Coca-Cola supports stronger PET bottle recovery

More sustainable global energy system First of 3 parts ENERGY is the lifeblood of the modern world, animating everything from cars, to homes, to the fitness tracker gathering dust on your bedside table.

But there are some big problems with the global energy system. For one, it’s heavily reliant on fossil fuels, the burning of which is driving the climate crisis. It’s also frequently unfair: globally, more than 650 million people lack access to electricity.

Those problems–and others–have led to calls for the world to overhaul the way it produces, distributes and consumes energy. But can we really change something as massive and

complex as the global energy system?

Debora Ley thinks so. She is a climate change scientist, a renewable energy engineer and a coordinating lead author of the Seventh Edition of the Global Environment Outlook (GEO-7), a landmark report on the state of the planet from the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).

We recently sat down with Ley to discuss how the world can break its addiction to fossil fuels and give more people access to clean, reliable electricity.

In a nutshell, can you tell me what’s wrong with the global energy system?

Debora Ley (DL): In GEO-7, we identify five main issues. One, hundreds of millions of people

around the world don’t have access to electricity. Two, more than 80 percent of the world’s energy comes from the combustion of fossil fuels, which is the primary cause of the ever-deepening climate crisis.

Three, humanity wastes a lot of energy, which means we need to burn more fossil fuels than would otherwise be necessary. Four, many of our energy systems are vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, like floods and forest fires.

Finally, while the world is embracing renewable energy and electric mobility, there are real concerns around the mining of the minerals used in things like batteries and solar panels.

(To be continued) UNEP News

AS URBAN communities face growing waste management challenges, collection infrastructure plays a more critical role in keeping recyclable materials within the recycling loop.

Across Metro Manila, Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP), the bottling arm and official distributor of Coca-Cola products in the country, has been supporting local government units (LGUs) and community partners in strengthening PET bottle recovery and waste diversion efforts through infrastructure support and long-term collaboration.

Through partnerships with the cities of Manila, Pasig, Valenzuela, Quezon City and Caloocan, CCEAP has provided baling machines and collection bins to help improve PET bottle recovery at the local level.

Baling machines compress collected

PET bottles into compact bales, reducing storage requirements and improving transport efficiency. This enables partner communities to recover and move more recyclable materials while helping divert valuable resources away from landfills and the environment.

These initiatives contribute to CCEAP’s broader commitment to supporting community-based recycling systems and advancing PET bottle circularity in the Philippines.

“Effective recovery and recycling systems are built through collaboration.

By working with local governments and community partners, we can make PET bottle collection more efficient and accessible where it matters most,” says lawyer Juan Lorenzo Tañada, vice president for Corporate & Regulatory Affairs of Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP).

Baling machine supporting the City Government of Manila’s Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) located in the Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden.

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CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:

BE THE CHANGE. EMPOWER EDUCATION. INSPIRE THE FUTURE

TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026

advertise@manilastandard.net

Beyond profit: How CSR supports PH education

By Raine Nicole Aguila

E

DUCATION plays a fundamental role in an individual’s personal and professional development. However, access to quality education remains unequal, making it a challenge rather than a guarantee for many Filipinos.

In the Philippines, more than 1.5 million children and youth are out of school, with most belonging to the 10–19 age group, largely due to poverty. Learning outcomes also remain a significant concern.

According to UNICEF, 90 percent of Filipino 10-year-olds cannot read and understand a simple text, while 83 percent do not achieve the minimum proficiency in mathematics. These figures highlight persistent challenges in literacy, numeracy and equitable access to quality education among Filipino learners.

These educational gaps are also reflected in international assessments.

Based on the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022, the Philippines performs approximately five to six years behind countries with similar income levels in learning outcomes. The findings underscore the need for sustained efforts from both the public and private sectors to improve the quality and accessibility of education.

Gemini-generated image

Education is closely linked to opportunities later in life. Basic literacy and numeracy are essential for everyday tasks such as reading, writing and problem-solving, while educational attainment often influences employment prospects, as many employers require at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Recognizing these challenges, many businesses have expanded their role beyond economic activities by investing in community development through corporate social responsibility (CSR). CSR is a business approach that integrates social, environmental and ethical responsibilities into a

company’s operations, encouraging organizations to contribute positively to society while pursuing long-term business success.

In the Philippines, many companies implement CSR initiatives that support healthcare, livelihood, disaster response, environmental conservation and education. Among these areas, education has become a major priority because of its long-term impact on individuals, communities and national development.

Education-focused CSR initiatives include scholarship programs, classroom construction and rehabilitation, the provision of digital learning devices, teacher

training, reading and literacy programs, and support for the Alternative Learning System (ALS), which provides educational opportunities for out-of-school youth and adult learners. These initiatives complement government efforts to expand educational access and improve learning outcomes.

Investments in education through CSR contribute to improved literacy, numeracy, preschool participation and school attendance while helping learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed for future employment.

In the long term, these initiatives also support workforce development,

reduce poverty and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

Education-focused CSR aligns with the Philippines’ national development priorities while contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education), which seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Several companies in the Philippines have integrated education into their CSR initiatives. For example, the National Book Store Foundation implements Project Aklat and Project Aral, which provide books and school supplies to underserved students. The Insular Foundation supports education through its Adopt-A-Scholar Program for public elementary students and the Gold Eagle College Scholarship Grant for deserving college students. Meanwhile, the Metrobank Foundation Inc. promotes academic excellence through the MetrobankMTAP-DepEd Math Challenge, which encourages students to strengthen their mathematical skills.

These initiatives represent only a few of the many education-focused CSR programs implemented by private organizations across the country.

By supporting scholarships, learning resources, school programs and academic development, these initiatives complement government efforts to improve access to quality education. They also demonstrate how private sector participation can help address educational challenges while contributing to the development of a more skilled, competitive and future-ready workforce.

Reaching across the digital divide: Converge brings robotics and coding to Oriental Mindoro grade schoolers AS THE Philippines advances toward a more digital future, ensuring that children in remote communities gain access not only to the internet but also to digital skills has become increasingly important. While connectivity continues to expand nationwide, many young Filipinos in underserved areas still have limited opportunities to learn coding, robotics, and other technology-related skills that are becoming essential in today’s economy.

Recognizing that digital inclusion goes beyond internet access, Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is investing in digital education through TechForGood: Code the Future, Build New Paths, a youth-focused initiative that introduces elementary students to coding, robotics, and STEM (Science, Te c h n o l o g y, E n g i n e e r i n g, a n d Mathematics). The pilot program was launched this June in Oriental Mindoro in partnership with Stairway Foundation Inc. and LAYERTech Labs, an Albay-based software research and development company.

The initiative reflects Converge’s broader goal of helping build a digitally empowered Philippines where children, regardless of location or economic background, have the opportunity to develop skills needed for the future.

For Converge, expanding internet access is only one aspect of digital transformation. As the company continues its shift from being a telecommunications provider to a technology company, it is placing greater emphasis on equipping young Filipinos with practical digital skills.

“Our collaboration with Stairway Foundation has always been anchored on creating opportunities through technology,” said Jay-Anne Encarnado,

Prior to teaching the children, LAYERTech first guided the community coordinators on robot assembly and software programming.

The girls of Baclayan Mangyan School, guided by Stairway coordinators and volunteers, spent an afternoon learning basic coding skills to power up their robot kits.

Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications and Public Relations at Converge. “This year, we’re excited to elevate that partnership as we continue our journey from being a telco to becoming a techco. We want to demonstrate that technology can be a force for good, especially when it reaches children who may not otherwise have access to these learning opportunities.”

Encarnado said introducing coding and robotics at an early age encourages curiosity, creativity, confidence, and problem-solving—skills that will become increasingly valuable as artificial intelligence, automation, and digital technologies reshape industries.

To support the initiative, Converge par tnered with LAYERTech Labs to provide hands-on robotics and programming workshops designed to help students understand how technology works rather than simply teaching them how to use it.

LAYERTech Labs offer a whole suite of models for different learning groups but make sure to make these accessible to low-income sectors.

A key feature of the program is its use of open-source technology. LAYERTech Labs developed the robotics workshops using affordable bipedal robot kits powered by open-source programming languages, allowing students and educators to continue learning without relying on costly software licenses.

“Our goal is to bring technology to where it is needed the most,” said Frei Sangil, President and Founder of LAYERTech Labs. “We believe innovation should narrow social inequalities rather than widen them. By using open-source solutions, communities can continue learning independently without the burden of expensive software.”

The young boys under the care of Stairway Foundation and those enrolled in Puerto Galera Academy learned to manipulate their robots through an app downloaded on their mobile phones.

The robots are equipped with Wi-Fi capabilities.

The workshops were designed to maximize participation among underser ved learners. Separate sessions were conducted for boys from the Stairway Foundation and Puerto Galera Academy and for girls from Baclayan Mangyan School and the Stairway Foundation, ensuring children from different backgrounds could participate equally.

Rather than relying on lectures, TechForGood emphasized experiential learning through collaboration and problem-solving. The three - day program began with a Train the Trainers session, where ICT volunteers, Stairway Foundation officers, and community coordinators learned robotics assembly and programming. This approach enables local educators to continue teaching future groups of students after the workshops conclude.

Students then assembled robot kits from scratch while working in teams, developing patience, communication, teamwork, and critical-thinking skills alongside technical knowledge. In the final phase, participants connected their completed robots to computers and wrote simple code that enabled their creations to move and perform programmed actions.

For many students, it was their first experience seeing software transformed into physical movement, making coding more engaging and accessible.

Beyond teaching technical concepts, the workshops encouraged creativity, logical reasoning, resilience, and collaboration—skills that are increasingly valuable in education and future careers.

According to Jonalyn Onde, Baclayan Development Officer at Stairway Foundation, the initiative complements the organization’s long-running ICT education program, where volunteers teach children basic computer skills.

“Ang partnership po na ito ay under sa ICT Program ng Stairway kung saan ako at mga ICT volunteers dito sa Baclayan community ay nagtuturo sa mga bata ng basic na paggamit ng computer.”

Onde said introducing robotics and coding allows students to move beyond basic computer literacy while helping prepare them for higher levels of education and future employment opportunities.

The robotics initiative also marks another milestone in the partnership between Converge and Stairway Fo u n d a t i o n . S i n c e 2 0 2 3 , b o t h organizations have worked together to improve digital access through inter net connec tivit y, donated computers and tablets, and digital literacy programs. They have also collaborated on campaigns promoting child online safety, responsible internet use, cybersecurity awareness, data privacy, and protection against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC).

As industries continue adopting artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, and software technologies, digital literacy is becoming an essential life skill. Programs like TechForGood introduce these concepts early, inspiring children to explore science, engineering, and technology while broadening their understanding of future career opportunities.

For Converge, investing in STEM education complements its continued expansion of digital infrastructure.

While fiber-optic networks connect communities to the internet, education enables people to maximize the opportunities that connectivity creates.

By bringing robotics and coding to underserved children in Oriental M indoro, Converge, Stair way Foundation, and LAYERTech Labs are helping ensure that technological progress reaches communities beyond urban centers. Their partnership demonstrates that building a truly connected nation requires investing not only in technology but also in people, empowering the next generation of Filipino innovators to help shape the country’s digital future.

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SHOWBIZ

TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026

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

Bea Alonzo prepares for ‘Whispers from Heaven,’ a 2027 primetime series that marks her next major project after ‘Widow’s War’

Beaver Magtalas

takes on biggest role yet in Cinemalaya’s ‘Kaka Sa Yawan’ Very Wang

Nickie Wang

OUNG actor and up-and-coming P-pop artist Beaver Magtalas is making his Cinemalaya debut in Kaka Sa Yawan (Brothers by the River), a coming-of-age drama that explores family, identity, and the culture of the Tadyawan Mangyan community in Oriental Mindoro.

Y

Shticks

Joseph Peter Gonzales

Bea Alonzo gears up for election-themed drama FOLLOWING the success of Widow’s War, Bea Alonzo is preparing for another major primetime project with GMA. Her next series, Whispers from Heaven, is slated to premiere early next year as one of the network’s flagship offerings for 2027.

“I’m proud to be part of this project,” Bea said, adding that the series is both timely and relevant with the 2028 elections approaching.

She plays Celestine Reyes, the chief of staff to Buenavista City Mayor Ivana Alabanza-Perona, portrayed by Maricar Reyes.

“It’s something new and challenging for me, especially since the theme revolves around elections,” she shared.

Bea said it took her a year before accepting another television project because she wanted something meaningful to mark her 25th year in the entertainment industry.

“I felt my next project should be bigger than me. The focus should no longer be on me but on the viewers.

This story shows the impact of people’s votes, and that’s important.”

Joining the cast are Tom Rodriguez, Cassy Legaspi, Jake Macapagal, and Jason Abalos under the direction of award-winning filmmaker Zig Dulay. *** Lorna Tolentino hopes granddaughter follows Lea Salonga’s path LORNA Tolentino couldn’t hide her pride over the positive response to her granddaughter Tori Fernandez, who recently performed “Fairest of Them All” from Snow White during the culminating showcase of Trumpets, Inc.’s summer workshop.

“Yes, I have a Lea Salonga in her. That’s actually my dream for her,” the veteran actress said.

Tolentino revealed she is willing to invest in Tori’s future by sending her abroad to study and gain exposure to Broadway or London’s West End. But for now, the young performer prefers to stay in the Philippines.

“She wants to remain here because her friends are here, and she joins choral competitions, so she still gets the training she needs,” LT shared.

Asked where Tori inherited her singing voice, the actress laughed before replying, “Of course, from me!

Singing runs in our family. Just look at my cousin Zsa Zsa Padilla.”

While waiting for her next acting project, Tolentino said she is focused on supporting her grandchildren, particularly Tori.

“I saw her talent early on, and I want to help her develop it. I just want all my grandchildren to have a bright future,” she said.

Tori Fernandez (left) earns the support of grandmother Lorna Tolentino as the veteran actress encourages her interest in music and theater

The film is rooted in Oriental Mindoro, where family ties, memory, and Mangyan culture shape a young man’s homecoming

Magtalas portrays Niko, the older version of the film’s protagonist, a Manila-raised man who returns to Mindoro after spending a decade in the capital. He shared that the character resonated with him because of its message about confronting regret.

“Maraming tao ang may regrets, pero we shouldn’t let those regrets hinder us from doing what we want to do. They make us who we are,” he shared.

The actor earned the role after auditioning alongside more than 500 hopefuls.

“Pumila po talaga ako sa audition. I think I was around number 500-something,” he recalled.

Landing the part also came with pressure, particularly after stepping away from acting following his last television project, Pamilya Sagrado.

“I’m so happy when I got the role.

Pero may kasamang pressure kasi Cinemalaya ito... naisip ko, ‘Kaya ko ba ito?’” he admitted, adding that the film’s director helped him build his confidence throughout production.

Filming required Magtalas to travel almost every weekend between Manila and Oriental Mindoro while continuing his P-pop training.

“Every Friday night after training, I would travel to Mindoro. Then first thing the next morning, we’d head straight to the shoot,” he recalled. “I barely got any sleep, but I didn’t feel the exhaustion while we were filming.”

He also found similarities with Niko, noting that he had been away from his own hometown for an extended period because of training commitments.

Before filming, the cast underwent an immersion Beaver Magtalas enters Cinemalaya with ‘Kaka Sa Yawan,’ playing a Manilaraised character whose return to Mindoro brings him closer to regret, family, and identity

The cast of ‘Kaka Sa Yawan,’ a film that puts the Tadyawan Mangyan community in the spotlight

Queenay Mercado (left) and Beaver Magtalas working on location in Mindoro for the coming-of-age drama

with the Tadyawan Mangyan community in Sitio Gran Vida, Socorro, Oriental Mindoro.

“The first day wasn’t for shooting. Immersion talaga siya,” he shared, describing the experience as peaceful and an opportunity to witness the community’s close relationship with nature.

Magtalas hopes viewers leave the film with a deeper appreciation of the Mangyan people and their traditions.

“We really want to shine a light on the Mangyan culture. It’s not something people get to see every day.”

An official entry to Cinemalaya 2026, Kaka Sa Yawan (Brothers by the River) will screen from Aug. 7 to 16. Produced by Bryce Entertainment Production and IGMM Film, the movie also stars Bryce Nicolo Mercader, Benedix Ramos, Nikki Valdez, Luis Alandy, Queenay Mercado, Karl Medina, Dennis Dato, Noelle Polack, and Deanne Bautista.

‘The Odyssey’ charts another course to box office glory CHRISTOPHER Nolan’s latest blockbuster, The Odyssey, retained the top spot at the North American box office in its second week, taking in an additional $87 million, industry estimates showed Sunday.

With an additional $353 million overseas, the film has already grossed $640 million worldwide.

Based on Homer’s ancient epic poem, the star-studded film follows hero Odysseus as he faces obstacle after obstacle on his way home from the Trojan War. It is the first film ever shot entirely on IMAX film cameras, as Nolan leaned into filmmaking heritage for this modern adaptation of one of humanity’s oldest stories.

Matt Damon and Anne Hathaway lead the cast as Odysseus and Penelope, with Tom Holland portraying their son, Telemachus.

Second place went to Moana, Disney’s latest live-action remake of one of its animated hits.

It took in an additional $10.5 million in its third week, for a total domestic haul of $102 million and another $125 million overseas.

Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ continues its strong global run as Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, and Tom Holland lead the filmmaker’s IMAX-shot take on Homer’s epic

Third place also went to Disney with the fifth installment of the animated Toy Story franchise.

It earned $10 million in its sixth week, surpassing the $1 billion mark at the global box office.

It is the highest-grossing film of the year so far, Variety reported.

Fourth place went to Bleecker Street’s Hadestown: The Musical, with $9.7 million.

The adaptation of the Tony Award-winning

musical blends two ancient Greek myths with themes of love and class struggle, set in a Depression-era world.

Fifth place went to Universal’s Minions & Monsters, with $9.6 million, for a total global haul of $381 million.

Rounding out the top 10 were The Invite ($2.64 million), Evil Dead Burn ($2.61 million), Young Washington ($2.0 million), Motor City ($1.6 million), and Obsession ($1.5 million). AFP

LIFE

C3 TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2026

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

PlaySpace incorporates roleplaying areas that encourage creativity and everyday learning through interactive activities

Paulo Avelino (second from right) hopes PlaySpace encourages children to spend more time playing, moving, and interacting instead of staying on their phones

Paulo Avelino wants kids

off their phones and back at play

By Jasper Valdez

P

AULO Avelino wants children growing up in crowded urban areas to have the freedom to run, climb, and play with others, experiences that shaped his own childhood in Baguio.

The actor drew from those memories as he and his business partners opened PlaySpace, a cosmicthemed indoor playground at Ayala Malls Vermosa in Imus, Cavite, on July 18.

“Metro Manila can be so cramped. I grew up in Baguio, where we had the luxury of running around, climbing trees, and falling off cliffs,” Paulo said at the soft opening of the new play center.

He recalled spending much of his

younger years outdoors, including climbing a guava tree and once breaking his arm.

“I really grew up playing outside,” he shared. “Back then, we didn’t have cellphones yet. You had no choice but to go outside and play with other kids.”

Paulo noted that children living in condominiums or communities with limited open areas may not have the same access to outdoor play. He hopes PlaySpace can offer them a safe place

Paulo Avelino’s new business is inspired by his childhood memories of growing up outdoors and staying active with friends

Adam said. “We saw that he needed to go to places like playgrounds to be exposed to other kids, interact, and help his development. But every time we went, it was always so crowded, and it was hard to book therapy.”

He explained that the project gave him a chance to create a place for his son while also serving other families.

“Aside from helping my child have a place to play, I loved the idea of helping other kids enjoy it too,” Adam explained.

The team spent two years planning the project, including a year of construction. Since the mall was already operating and a cinema was beside the site, heavy construction work was done at night.

Inside, children can climb through multi-level structures, race down slides, play in a large ball pit, and take part in interactive games. The venue also has role-playing areas and

Interactive stations give children opportunities to develop social and practical skills through pretend play

The indoor playground offers activity zones designed to promote physical play and social interaction among children of different ages

Younger visitors can explore dedicated spaces that support imaginative play in a safe environment

activities for younger children.

Paulo, who handles marketing for the venture, explained that his partners manage the business while he attends to acting commitments.

“I’m very lucky to have amazing partners. Technically, they can run the place even without me,” he stated.

While PlaySpace currently carries an outer-space theme, Paulo revealed that future branches could take on different concepts.

“Hopefully, this won’t be the only branch,” he said.

Housing communities designed around Filipino families’ needs

By Nickie Wang AFFORDABLE housing remains a challenge through the years, but Kaia Homes, Inc. (KHI) believes socialized housing can meet government requirements while providing the quality and comfort of private communities.

“There are government regulation requirements,” KHI president John Phillip Wang told the Manila Standard Life. “But why stop and just deliver what the government requires? The delivery of the features here is in line with what we deliver in our other subdivisions or other projects. It comes with trying to understand the buyer and trying to focus our efforts around the buyer.”

The company recently unveiled Kaia Homes Tarlac, a 48-hectare community in Barangay Armenia, Tarlac City, with 7,066 two-story townhouses designed as an affordable alternative without sacrificing quality, comfort, and dignity.

KHI is an affiliate of Citihomes Builder and Development, Inc. (CBDI), which focuses on developing socialized housing communities with private village standards. Rosie Tsai serves as chairperson of CBDI. Kaia Homes Tarlac is the company’s third Kaia Homes project in its 12-year history of building socialized housing communities. The project followed discussions with PAG-IBIG Fund and developers under the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4Ps) program.

The townhouses are expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2027. Through PAGIBIG financing, prospective homeowners may avail of up to a 30-year payment plan.

“Panibagong simula, Kaya mo na” is the line created by Kaia Homes for its Naya Townhouse unit in Tarlac City.

Each two-story home has a 32-square-meter floor area on a minimum 30-square-meter lot, with provisions for two bedrooms, one toilet and bath, a rear kitchen, and space for a motorcycle or e-bike.

The homes feature roof framing with Astrofoil insulation to reduce indoor heat, second-floor concrete pouring, foundation-grade beam, ground floor posts and beams, second-floor beams, and deadbolt security locks for front and rear entrances.

The community will include a clubhouse, gate and guardhouse, perimeter security, a multipurpose covered court, a park, and a children’s

to move around and interact without being occupied by their phones.

“It’s nice to have a safe space for kids where they can truly be themselves, run around, not be on their phones, and just enjoy with other kids,” he noted.

The venture began two years ago during a late-night gaming session with his friends. PlaySpace CEO and president Adam Vinluan proposed the idea while the group was talking on Discord.

“It’s actually the brainchild of Adam, but two years ago, we were just talking on Discord while playing games. He brought it up out of nowhere, and I said yes. We started working on it,” Paulo recalled.

For Adam, the idea was also shaped by his experience raising his fouryear-old son, who was diagnosed with global developmental delay, or GDD. “Being a dad, you worry so much,”

The Kaia Homes Tarlac project introduces two-story townhouses designed to balance affordability with features commonly found in private residential communities

playground.

Wang emphasized that parks, playgrounds, and green spaces remain important elements in their projects.

“What we feature in the materials are things we believe we can do better than other fellow developers. Especially the covered court. Nobody knows their neighbors’ covered basketball courts, especially for socialized projects,” Wang noted.

CBDI has built at least eight covered courts over the past 12 years to provide residents with spaces for community gatherings.

“The chapel is also typically quite small.

Although we’re giving a chapel, that’s not even part of the license itself. We’re giving a chapel out of Thanksgiving,” Wang explained.

The houses also include non-ladder-type stairs, telephone-type shower heads, lavatories, window grills, steel rear doors, deadbolts, window screens, and screen rear doors.

Citihomes Builder Development, Inc. started its venture 43 years ago in Cavite. Today, its housing projects are spread across Southern and Northern Luzon, with 21 branches in Cavite, Batangas, Pampanga, and Bulacan.

“Our first project in Cavite started in 1993. Then,

Kaia Homes Inc.’s first project in General Trias was in 2015. Even then, we went in with the philosophy of, OK, you need to have this number of square meters. It has to have this door and that door and this many windows. But I said, ‘No, we can do better than that,’” Wang shared.

Citihomes acquired the Tarlac property before the COVID-19 pandemic. Wang noted that the location was chosen after studying the area’s accessibility and nearby communities.

Kaia Homes Tarlac is near SM City Tarlac, San Jose Arch, Tarlac Recreational Park, and Camp O’Donnell. The property is also accessible through Cojuangco Highway, a four-lane road.

“The community is not that far. It’s quite close to Capas and Tarlac City,” Wang added.

Kaia Homes plans to begin construction before the end of the year, with residents expected to start moving in by next year.

“We just launched the model houses this July.

So today, you have a visual representation of

what the buyers will get,” Wang noted.

He pointed out that most buyers are expected to use financing options rather than cash payments.

“I don’t imagine many of them will have P1 million to pay in cash. But it’s P4,000 a month,” Wang said.

KHI continues to operate only in Luzon, with Wang stressing that expansion outside the region will not come at the expense of quality standards.

“We are not publicly traded. We don’t have investors in the company. This is still quite a small family and very familial corporate culture.

To protect that culture, you cannot grow so fast,” Wang explained.

The company follows what Wang described as the Kaiser principle, a Japanese approach of continuously improving one’s craft.

“We try to keep studying. When we’re thinking about the next project, the only thing we think of is how to make this project better than the last one,” he noted.

The company expands its socialized housing developments with amenities aimed at long-term community living

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CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:

BE THE CHANGE. EMPOWER EDUCATION. INSPIRE THE FUTURE

Classrooms as capital: Why investing in Filipino youth is the nation’s ultimate test

By Sean Jericho Rodeo

I

N A classroom in rural Cavite, a 16-year-old student sits at a worn wooden armchair with a Grade 11 textbook open before him.

He pauses at unfamiliar words, whispering their sounds under his breath as he struggles to understand the text. He is polite, ambitious, and dreams of becoming an engineer. Yet behind his determination lies a harsh reality: he cannot fully comprehend the very material meant to prepare him for college.

Does this scene sound familiar?

Perhaps you knew a classmate who faced the same challenge, have a younger relative experiencing it today, or even struggled with reading yourself. While troubling, this situation is far from rare.

For thousands of Filipino students, it is an everyday reality.

According to diagnostic assessments conducted by the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) and the Department of Education (DepEd), an astonishing 87 percent of Grade 11 students in public schools are classified as nonindependent readers. Even more alarming, proficiency in core subjects drops from 30.5 percent in Grade 3 to less than 1 percent by the time students reach senior high school.

What begins as a modest learning gap in childhood often grows into a full-blown educational crisis by young adulthood.

For decades, Filipinos have embraced the saying, “Ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan.” Today, however, education experts and policymakers are asking a difficult question: How can the youth carry the nation’s future if the education system fails to equip them with even the most fundamental skills in literacy and numeracy?

Building the Nation Together:

Globe, DICT mark GIDA milestone in Pangasinan

The Price of Neglect The roots of this crisis extend far beyond the classroom. Long before a child ever picks up a pencil, malnutrition and stunting have already limited the potential of one in every four Filipino children under the age of five. By the time these children enter school, many are already beginning the race with a significant disadvantage.

As students progress through basic education, overcrowded classrooms, limited learning resources, and the practice of automatic promotion often compound the problem. By senior high school, the consequences become impossible to ignore.

National diagnostic examinations reveal that only four out of every 1,000 Grade 12 students demonstrate true grade-level mastery.

The economic consequences are equally alarming. The World Bank estimates that learning poverty could cost the Philippines billions of pesos in lost future productivity and earnings. An entire generation risks being left behind in an economy increasingly driven by critical thinking, digital literacy, and technical expertise.

The First Steps Forward Despite these sobering realities, a significant shift in approach is beginning to emerge. Recognizing that education requires more than piecemeal reforms, national leaders are increasingly treating it not as a routine government expense but as one of the country’s most valuable long-term investments.

Digital literacy as a CSR investment

By Stella Creus

From left: Mel Baquiano, Globe Territory General Manager; Gian Villaceran, Globe Business National Government Accounts Head; Anda, Pangasinan Mayor Joganie Rarang; and DICT Undersecretary Heherson M. Asiddao at the ceremonial activation of the new connectivity tower in Barangay Macaleeng, Anda, Pangasinan.

GLOBE, together with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, marked a major milestone in the country’s digital inclusion journey with the ceremonial activation of a new connectivity site in Barangay Macaleeng, Anda, Pangasinan.

The event highlighted the activation of Globe’s mobile network expansion across 52 unserved sites, bringing connectivity to these previously zero-signal zones for the very first time, a breakthrough in bridging the digital divide. Fulfilling the company’s commitment to ensure reliable mobile network access across 180 project locations in support of the DICT’s digital inclusion initiatives, Globe’s expanded network footprint brings coverage to the newly connected communities while delivering optimized network services and bandwidth across 128 underserved areas, ensuring all beneficiaries can fully access reliable mobile data.

The ceremony brought together DICT Undersecretary for Support Services Heherson Asiddao, Anda, Pangasinan Mayor Joganie Rarang, representatives from the Department of Education, local government officials, community leaders, Globe executives, and residents who stand to benefit from improved connectivity. During the event, local beneficiaries also received and activated their Bayanihan SIM cards, gaining immediate access to mobile connectivity and digital services.

“This is an important milestone. Every new tower means more communities connected, more families reached, and more opportunities opened.” said DICT Undersecretary for Support Services Heherson Asiddao. “This is why connectivity is not just about technology. It is about the people and making sure that where they live does not limit what they can achieve. “ Anda, Pangasinan Mayor Joganie Rarang welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the transformative impact of digital infrastructure on community development.

“For our students, farmers, entrepreneurs, and families, better connectivity opens doors to opportunities that were once beyond reach. This milestone is an investment in the future of Pangasinan.”

For Globe, the milestone reinforces its commitment to helping build a more connected and digitally inclusive Philippines.

“The hardest places to connect are often the communities that stand to benefit the most from connectivity,” said Carl Cruz, President and CEO of Globe. “Whether through new technologies, stronger partnerships, or innovative network solutions, our goal is simple: to make sure geography is never a barrier to opportunity.”

Reliable connectivity opens access to online learning, digital government services, healthcare information, livelihood opportunities, financial services, and communication with family and loved ones. As more underserved communities come online, connectivity continues to create new opportunities for individuals, families, schools, and local businesses.

The ceremony reflects the shared commitment of Globe, DICT, and local government partners to expand connectivity where it is needed most. By continuing to work together, they are helping create more opportunities for communities across the country to participate in an increasingly connected and digital Philippines.

Representatives from Globe, DICT, and local government lead the ceremonial ribbon-cutting for the activation of a new connectivity tower in Barangay Macaleeng, Anda, Pangasinan.

DIGITAL literacy has become one of the most important skills in the 21st century. As technology continues to shape the way people learn, work, communicate, and access essential services, the ability to use digital tools effectively is no longer optional— it is a necessity. Recognizing this need, many companies are expanding their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs by investing in digital literacy initiatives. These programs benefit not only individuals and communities but also contribute to longterm social and economic development.

Corporate Social Responsibility refers to a company’s commitment to making a positive impact on society while operating ethically and sustainably. Beyond generating profits, businesses are expected to contribute to the well-being of the communities they serve. One meaningful way they fulfill this responsibility is by promoting digital literacy. By investing in education and technology, companies help reduce the digital divide and create opportunities for people who may otherwise have limited access to digital resources.

Digital literacy is the ability to use computers, smartphones, tablets, and other digital devices confidently, safely, and responsibly. It involves more than knowing how to operate technology. A digitally literate person can search for accurate and reliable information online, evaluate the credibility of digital content, recognize misinformation and online scams, protect personal data and privacy, communicate effectively through digital platforms, and use technology to solve problems, learn new skills, and complete everyday tasks. These abilities are essential in a world where many services, educational resources, and employment opportunities are available online.

Many companies incorporate digital literacy into their CSR programs through a variety of initiatives. They organize training sessions that teach participants basic computer skills, internet navigation, online communication, and the use of productivity software. Businesses also conduct workshops on cybersecurity, helping individuals understand how to create strong passwords, avoid phishing scams, recognize cyber threats, and protect their personal information. In addition, companies donate computers, tablets, internet connectivity equipment, and educational software to schools, libraries, and community learning centers. Some organizations establish digital learning hubs where students and adults can access technology, receive technical support, and participate in digital education programs.

Another important aspect of digital literacy CSR programs is promoting digital entrepreneurship. Companies provide aspiring entrepreneurs with training on digital marketing, e-commerce, online financial management, content creation, and the use of digital business platforms. These programs enable small business owners, freelancers, and young entrepreneurs to reach wider markets, increase their income, and compete in an increasingly digital economy. By encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship, businesses help stimulate local economic growth and create more employment opportunities.