Manila Standard - 2026 July 31 - Friday

By Pot Chavez

Marcos OKs VP’s tax docs release

Who pays for SONA promises? MAP warns vs. biz paying costs

By Jimbo Gulle and Alena Mae Flores

THE administration must explain how it will finance its ambitious tax relief and spending agenda, the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) said Thursday, even as it welcomed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) for focusing on the everyday concerns of Filipinos.

“The biggest unanswered question is: Who pays for the promises?” MAP president Donald Lim said on ANC’s “Top Story” TV program. He noted that proposed income tax exemptions and other relief measures

must be matched by sustainable funding, stronger revenue collection and productivity-enhancing reforms.

“For the first time, I felt he (the President) was really talking to the Filipino people,” Lim said of the SONA. “He focused on immediate household concerns... It was a good laundry list. I think he checked most of the boxes.”

“But while it’s necessary, I still felt that it should be matched by real sustainable investments, reform, and productivity,” he added.

Lim warned against shifting the cost of the proposed tax relief to the private sector, saying businesses Next page

By Charles Dantes, Ram Superable and Maricel Cruz

RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. authorized the Bureau of Internal Revenue to release the tax records of Vice President Sara Duterte and her husband, lawyer Manases Carpio, to the Senate impeachment court, Malacañang on Thursday.

The Senate Impeachment Court, through the Office of the Clerk of Court, said it received documentary submissions yesterday morning in compliance

Pasig court issues TRO vs. Metro Manila wage hike order

By Ratziel San Juan, and Vito Barcelo

THE Pasig City Regional Trial Court (RTC) issued a status quo ante (the way things were before) order suspending the implementation of the P85 daily minimum wage increase

By Jeremiah Sevilla

composure when it mattered most, rallying from a 1-5 deficit in the second set to dethrone defending champion Leylah Fernandez of Canada, 6-2, 7-6 (1), and reach the quarterfinals of the 2026 Mubadala DC Open at the FitzGerald Tennis Center in Washington, D.C., early Thursday (Philippine time).

“I think patience was key there, just trying to work it out, and a strong mentality in terms of trying to find solutions,” Eala said after her hard-fought victory.

“I know that she (Fernandez) was playing

among private sector employees in Metro Manila. The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) immediately condemned the decision, describing the action as “the height of corporate greed, desperation, and utter indifference to the daily suffering of

a little better, and maybe my level dropped a little bit. Those are very tricky moments, when you know your level has dropped and you want to do better, but things for one reason or another just aren’t coming out,” she added.

Rather than panic when Fernandez seized control of the second set, Eala trusted her game, patiently waited for her opportunities and gradually turned the match around. “Everything’s kind of a blur right now. I really made an effort to stay in the moment, and I was ready for anything that could have happened,” said Eala. Next page

Filipino workers.”

“Kasuklam-suklam na baryahan na nga ang ipinagkaloob sa manggagawa, hulugan pa, at dinala pa sa kasuhan. Ang unang ₱60 na dapat nasa bulsa na ng ating mga manggagawa ngayong buwan ay gusto pang bawiin sa pamamagitan ng korte, samanta-

By Charles Dantes

lang ang natitirang ₱25 ay pinaghihintay pa sila hanggang sa susunod na taon. Hindi dapat tumigil ang umento at mundo ng bawat manggagawa at ordinaryong Pilipino dahil ng dalawang employer na malinaw na walang pakialam sa kanilang emp-

FOR UNBOXING. The Clerk of Court of the Senate Impeachment Court receives the subpoenaed tax and bank records of Vice President Sara Duterte and husband, Atty. Mans Carpio, which were delivered yesterday to the Senate. Wendell Alinea, Joseph Vidal | Senate Social Media Unit

‘VP Sara’s gun tirades won’t distract court’

By Maricel V. Cruz and Charles Dantes

AFRESH remark about hiring a gunman for P5,000 cannot distract from bank records and sworn testimony tracing the encashment of P612.5 million in confidential funds under Vice President Sara Zimmerman Duterte.

Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte called the International Criminal Court (ICC) a “puppet” of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and former Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV as she claimed cor-

No. 12321, or the Last Mile and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) Schools Act, establishes a national framework to prioritize public schools that have long struggled with limited access to educational resources because of their location, poverty, conflict or other challenging conditions.

The new law directs the Department of Education (DepEd) to identify, monitor and provide sustained assistance to Last Mile and GIDA Schools through targeted infrastructure projects, learning interventions and teacher support programs.

Schools may qualify under the program if they are located in remote or difficult-to-reach communities, lack access to basic services or operate in areas affected by armed conflict, disasters or other vulnerabilities. Schools where at least 75% of enrolled learners are Indigenous Peoples may also be classified under the program.

To improve accessibility, the measure requires the government to adopt a national planning standard that aims to place public basic education schools within a three-kilometer walking distance of learners whenever feasible.

Last Mile and GIDA schools map

The law also mandates DepEd to develop a National Last Mile and GIDA Schools Map within one year from the law’s effectivity.

The database will serve as the government’s primary planning tool for identifying priority schools, allocating resources and monitoring progress, with updates required at least every three years.

Recognizing that educational challenges extend beyond classrooms, the measure requires several government agencies to coordinate with DepEd in delivering essential services to beneficiary schools.

These include the construction of school buildings and access roads, electrification, internet connectivity, transportation, clean water and sanitation facilities.

The law likewise calls for expanded support for students through school feeding, health services, digital learning resources, alternative learning delivery systems and improved access to educational technology.

To help attract and retain educators in remote communities, the measure provides additional incentives for teachers and non-teaching personnel assigned to Last Mile and GIDA Schools.

These include hardship and mobility allowances, housing assistance, professional development opportunities, scholarships and localized hiring and promotion mechanisms.

For schools serving Indigenous Peoples, the law requires the integration of Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices, indigenous languages and culturally appropriate learning materials in accordance with existing laws protecting indigenous communities.

“And luckily -- well, it wasn’t a lot of luck -- but luckily it went my way.”

The 21-year-old Filipina trailed 1-5 and faced the prospect of a deciding set after Fernandez regained her rhythm. But Eala held serve when the Canadian was threatening to pull further away, then reeled off five consecutive games to move ahead, 6-5. Fernandez managed to force a tiebreak, but Eala took complete command, racing to a 6-1 lead before sealing the victory with a pair of blazing forehand winners.

The comeback capped a strong performance from Eala, who took advantage of Fernandez’s 14 unforced errors and fired two winners to claim the opening set in just 35 minutes.

ruption in its investigation of the case her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, is facing at The Hague.

Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon, a member of the House prosecution pan-

Marcos... From A1

el, described Thursday the reported statement at the “Free Duterte Now” rally in The Hague as another diversion after two former Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank) managers testified before the Senate impeachment court.

“The undocumented encashment of P612.t million is another diversion in the impeachment court. She may try to change the conversation, but she cannot make the checks, bank records and sworn testimony disappear,” Ridon noted.

Duterte was quoted as saying she could hire a gunman in the Philippines for P5,000,

with the subpoenas issued for Article II, which covers allegations of unexplained wealth.

As of 4 p.m. yesterday, the documents included the financial records of the Duterte couple as well as those from the Anti-Money Laundering Council and from the following banking institutions: BDO Unibank, Inc.; Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank); Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank); Bank of the Philippine Islands, Landbank of the Philippines and Security Bank Corporation.

“The office of the Clerk of Court is currently undertaking a meticulous and highly secure inventory of all received documents. Given the sheer volume and the extensive historical scope of the subpoenaed financial and corporate records, the inventory is an active and ongoing process,” Senate impeachment court spokesman Atty. Regie Tongol said.

“The Senate court maintains the highest level of physical and procedural security over these records. Access is strictly controlled and the chain of custody is heavily documented. The Clerk of Court will release the documents to the parties only after the meticulous inventory process is complete, and in the case of the AMLC, after the Presiding Officer completes his ‘in camera’ review.”

“The Impeachment Court will not rush the chain of custody. Security and accuracy take precedence over speed,” Tongol added.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro confirmed Mr. Marcos granted the required approval for BIR to disclose the records.

Who...

are already grappling with high energy costs, geopolitical uncertainty and weak consumer spending.

‘Don’t delay legitimate infrastructure projects’

The MAP chief also urged the government to ensure its anti-corruption campaign does not delay legitimate infrastructure projects.

“Infrastructure spending is very important. It cannot be put on hold,” Lim said, adding that prolonged project delays ultimately hurt ordinary Filipinos.

Lim also said political uncertainty is causing some foreign investors to delay planned investments, warning that excessive political noise could undermine the country’s competitiveness.

“Our neighbors are moving much faster,” he said.

The Foreign Buyers Association of the Philippines (FOBAP) shared similar concerns, with its president Robert M. Young saying the SONA lacked sufficient emphasis on rebuilding manufacturing and export industries.

“Overall, the SONA is lacking in economic substance,” Young said, add-

leyado,” the TUCP said in a statement.

using as an example what she could supposedly do if her husband had a mistress.

“The problem is deeper: why did the Vice President admit to the murder? From cutting off heads to hiring an assassin and now a P5,000-gunman. Violence is no longer an isolated figure of speech, but a recurring language of power,” Ridon said.

Remarks aimed at highlighting gun violence in PH

Vice President Sara Duterte defended her earlier remarks about the prevalence of gun violence in the Philippines, saying her comments were intended to highlight

“Yes,” Castro said when asked if the President had already authorized the release.

She said the decision was based on legal requirements rather than political considerations.

“If that is what the law requires and his approval is necessary for the BIR to open the tax records of Vice President Sara and Atty. Mans Carpio, and this is for the sake of the truth, he will not withhold the truth from our fellow Filipinos,” Castro said.

Asked about concerns that approving the release could set a precedent for future administrations, Castro acknowledged the possibility but said the current circumstances warranted the decision.

“Yes, it can be, but the situation now calls for it. That is what those in the Senate are saying and requesting. President Marcos Jr. will not be an obstacle to the release of the truth,”

The tax filings are intended to help establish Duterte’s financial baseline regarding allegations of unexplained wealth.

Impeachment Court Presiding Officer Senator Francis Escudero limited the scope of the subpoenaed tax and bank records to peso-denominated accounts from 2007 to 2021, explicitly excluding foreign currency deposits and prohibiting their use to prosecute new impeachable acts outside the current charges.

Escudero relied on precedents from the 2012 impeachment trial of former Chief Justice Renato Corona to grant the prosecution’s request for the financial data of both the Vice President and her husband, citing legal mandates requiring public officials to disclose spousal assets.

Defense lawyer Michael Poa earlier opposed the release of the documents, characterizing the request

ing that the administration should give greater attention to manufacturing, ease of doing business, power diversification and strengthening the country’s competitiveness.

IBON Foundation executive director Sonny Africa likewise described the SONA as “underwhelming,” saying it relied on short-term interventions without pursuing structural reforms needed to transform the economy.

MVP: Who bears the cost?

Business concerns over the administration’s energy agenda were echoed by businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan, chairman of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), who questioned President Marcos’ proposal to remove system loss charges from consumers’ electricity bills.

“It is not a question of inefficiency. It is just the way it is, and there’s a cost to it. So, the real question is, who bears the cost?” Pangilinan said in a press briefing.

He said the cost would be “too big for the industry to absorb,” adding that eliminating the charge could cost distributors tens of billions of pesos.

The Department of Energy (DOE) has estimated that removing the charge could reduce electricity bills by 5 to 10 percent, depending on the distribution utility.

System loss refers to the difference be-

According to the TUCP, the petition filed by the companies Readycon Trading and Construction Corporation as well as R-II Builders, Inc. is a “direct assault on the country’s wage-fixing system established under Republic Act No. 6727, a dangerous attempt to circumvent the law, and a blatant disregard of the tripartite process where government, employers, and workers deliberate and decide minimum wage adjustments.”

In the two-page order dated July 24, Pasig RTC Ex-

provocation” was “hypocrisy aimed at buying time to recover and reconsolidate for his next sneaky move.”

“Ceasefire my foot! What kind of man declares war, armed with a toy gun and with just his saliva as ammunition, then uses intermediaries to ask for a ceasefire when confronted by real bombs?” he said.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, on the other hand, denied that the word ceasefire came from him.

“We are being dragged, we are being charged... no one is suggesting anything, the word ceasefire did not come from me. I was asked by a senator...,” he said in his vlog.

a worsening public safety problem rather than generate controversy.

In a statement issued by the Office of the Vice President on Thursday, Duterte said gun violence is “a reality not just a clickbait,” arguing that violent crime has become an everyday concern for many Filipinos.

“It is a fact that gun violence in the Philippines has become alarmingly commonplace. This is not clickbait, nor is it a headline that should be reduced to a passing remark,” Duterte said in the statement.

as an overly broad fishing expedition that violates due process by seeking evidence after charges were already filed.

But for House prosecutor Terry Ridon, the growing body of documentary evidence would strengthen the prosecution’s case on Duterte’s alleged unexplained wealth and misuse of confidential funds.

“The world of our Vice President is shrinking,” Ridon, who also chairs the House Committee on Public Accounts, said during a press briefing.

As this developed, the prosecution will next present the current and former state auditors in relation to Article 1, which covers alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds released to the OVP and the Department of Education which Duterte used to head.

House lead prosecutor Gerville Luistro said the prosecution had requested subpoenas for witnesses scheduled to appear when the trial resumes next week.

The next phase will take the case beyond the physical encashment of four OVP checks totaling P500 million and three DepEd checks totaling P112.5 million, which two former LandBank branch managers authenticated Wednesday.

“As to who they are, they include the former State Auditor of the Intelligence Confidential Fund Audit Unit of the Commission on Audit,” Luistro said.

Based on Luistro’s manifestation in open court, to be summoned are Roderick Wamil former state auditor of COA ICFAO and Celine May Del Campo, present state auditor of COA ICFAO, as well as Marivic Pareja, director of House of Representatives Legislative Information Resources Management Department.

tween electricity entering a distribution system and the amount ultimately billed to customers. It includes unavoidable technical losses in power lines and transformers as well as nontechnical losses from power theft and illegal connections.

For Meralco customers, system loss charges account for about 5 percent of monthly electricity bills, while some electric cooperatives incur losses as high as 16 percent.

IBON’s Africa said lowering system loss charges alone would have only a limited effect on electricity prices because the country’s high power costs stem largely from dependence on imported fuels, expensive generation costs and the structure of the power sector.

Pangilinan said Meralco would continue cooperating with the government on proposed amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), even as he acknowledged that the President’s proposal had complicated the company’s regulatory planning.

“The statement of the President at the SONA has just thrown a spanner in the works,” he said.

Palace nixes subsidies for cooperatives

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said removing system loss charges could

ecutive Judge Achilles Bulauitan partially granted the petition filed by Readycon Trading and Construction Corp. and R-II Builders Inc.

The petitioners had applied for an ex parte (from one side only) 72-hour temporary restraining order (TRO) to stop the implementation of Wage Order No. 27 and/or maintain the wage rates existing prior to its effectivity.

“The court is not inclined to grant the 72-hour TRO. However, considering the nature of the petition, and the incoming weekend, there is an urgent need to maintain the status quo between the parties before the petitioners’ application for a TRO could be heard,” the order read.

He also expressed shock on new allegations raised against him by Lacson while maintaining that the city of Taguig remains free of corruption.

Addressing the public, Cayetano said that his wife, Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano, reminded him to keep a sober demeanor during political disputes to reassure residents that the local government operates with integrity.

“The city of Taguig is in good hands. The number of Taguig residents is increasing. We don’t tolerate corruption and ghost projects or anything like that, whether it’s local or national government or private,” he asserted.

Meanwhile, Senate Blue Ribbon Committee chair Senator Erwin Tulfo on Thursday said the panel might not investigate the corruption allegations in

take about a year because the DOE and Energy Regulatory Commission must first assess the infrastructure requirements of more than 100 electric cooperatives and private distribution utilities.

Energy Undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevara said the DOE would seek financing for electric cooperatives through the National Electrification Administration and other lending institutions. Malacañang, however, ruled out subsidies for electric cooperatives.

“What the President wants is to remove this extra cost from our people— not to shift the burden either to consumers or to utility companies,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said, adding that distributors should instead reduce losses by curbing electricity theft and improving operational efficiency.

The Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association backed the removal of the value-added tax on system loss charges.

However, it warned that scrapping the charge itself without government support could push electric cooperatives into financial distress because technical system losses are an unavoidable cost of delivering electricity, particularly in remote areas.

“This is to give the court where the case would eventually be raffled sufficient time to study the merits of the petitioners’ application for ancillary remedies,” it added.

Accordingly, the Pasig court directed the parties to maintain the status quo until the specific court where the case is raffled hears the TRO or unless the status quo is earlier revoked.

Meanwhile, Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino said that although “he feels sympathy for the affected workers, it is important to honor the court’s ruling, adding that this is a vital part of democracy and the legal system, and following it helps prevent violence and chaos.”

Taguig City raised by Lacson. Tulfo pointed out that Lacson had already turned over the evidence to the Office of the Ombudsman.

The Blue Ribbon chair noted that the Ombudsman had advised the panel not to duplicate its ongoing investigation.

“The Ombudsman has already said it will handle the investigation and that the Blue Ribbon Committee should no longer intervene. However, if new personalities are implicated in the flood control projects, farm-to-market roads, or other infrastructure projects, then we can investigate again. But for now, all the evidence is already with the Ombudsman,” he said.

Tulfo said he and Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian would discuss the matter with Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla.

lix Ty said the joint sworn statement contained several inconsistencies.

“The Ombudsman dismissed the joint affidavit. Iyong Ombudsman mismo ang nagsabi na walang bisa ang dokumento na iyon at kailangan ng panibagong dokumento, indibidwal na affidavit sa mga particular na respondent bago i-consider ng Ombudsman,” he explained.

Ty noted that the DOJ is tasked with the joint affidavit of the former staff fugitive former Rep. Zaldy Co. He added that the statements that identified several individuals contained a number of inconsistencies but did not elaborate.

IN BRIEF

Dizon questions Davao City flood control projects

PUBLIC Works Secretary Vince Dizon questioned the delayed flood control project in Davao City after inspecting the site following last week’s flooding that affected residents of Talomo and Bangkal.

During the inspection, Dizon expressed frustration after learning from local officials that the dike project had remained unfinished since 2019. He immediately ordered DPWH officials to complete the project.

Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte responded in a Facebook post, agreeing that the unfinished project was unacceptable but blaming the Department of Public Works and Highways for the seven-year delay. Cherrie Anne Villahermosa

PDEA seizes P510m shabu at Batangas Port

THE Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Thursday arrested two alleged drug couriers, rescued a minor, and seized P510 million worth of suspected shabu during an interdiction operation at Batangas Port.

The operation, conducted with the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police, and Asian Terminals Inc., led to the confiscation of about 75 kilograms of suspected shabu in Barangay Sta. Clara, Batangas City.

Authorities arrested a 22-yearold male student and a 27-year-old unemployed woman, both from Talon-Talon, Zamboanga City. A 17-year-old alleged cohort was rescued. Rio N. Araja

DILG accelerates local government digitalization

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is accelerating digital transformation across local government units to support President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s drive for a more business-friendly environment and stronger local economies.

The DILG reported that 1,414 cities and municipalities, or 92.18 percent, comply with Business Permitting and Licensing System standards, while 1,429 LGUs, or 93.16 percent, meet Building Permits and Certificate of Occupancy standards.

The department said the high compliance rates translate to faster and more predictable business transactions, making it easier for investors to establish and expand operations.

It also reported that 1,030 LGUs have adopted the e-LGU System, allowing citizens to access services such as business permit applications, tax payments, and civil registry transactions online. Vince Lopez

REPORTING

PH defends extended continental shelf claim in WPS before UN

By Katrina Manubay

THE Philippines has sought United Nations recognition of its entitlement to an extended continental shelf off western Palawan in the West Philippine Sea, formally presenting its partial submission before the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS).

In a media release on Wednesday, July 29, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the Philippines reaffirmed that its claim is anchored on the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

the country’s trust in a rules-based order in the marine and maritime domain.

The DFA noted that the submission aligns with Article 76 of UNCLOS, which entitles coastal states, such as the Philippines, to establish the outer limits of their continental shelf.

tive to the United Nations, led the Philippine delegation during the presentation before the CLCS.

In June 2024, Manila first submitted information to the UN on the extent of its undersea continental shelf off western Palawan following 15 years of scientific research.

Deputy Assistant Secretary and Maritime Affairs Spokesperson Rogelio Villanueva said the submission demonstrated the Philippines’ steadfast commitment to the UN Charter and the 1982 UNCLOS, reflecting

“The presentation further underscored that the submission was part of the country’s responsibility to secure a peaceful South China Sea through the rule of law in order to sustain the livelihoods of Filipinos, foster trade, protect marine biodiversity, and unite coastal and littoral states,” the statement read.

The area includes the seabed and subsoil of submarine regions extending beyond 200 nautical miles (NM) but not exceeding 350 NM from the baselines from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured.

Ambassador Enrique Manalo, the Philippines’ Permanent Representa-

Estrada files bail petition for plunder charge

By Maricel V. Cruz

DETAINED Sen. Jinggoy Estrada has filed a petition for bail before the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division in relation to a P573 million plunder charge filed against him over his alleged involvement in the flood control mess.

Estrada filed the petition after the anti-graft court denied his motion to fix bail.

“There is no strong evidence that during the period from July 2024

to March 2025, accused Estrada, directly or indirectly, through a combination or series of overt or criminal acts, amassed, accumulated, or acquired ill-gotten wealth or unjustly enriched himself in the amount of P573,750,000, or any amount for that matter,” Estrada’s motion read.

“There is no strong evidence that accused Estrada willfully and unlawfully demanded, solicited, or received, directly or indirectly, from then-DPWH Undersecretary Rober-

to Bernardo, or the latter’s aide, driver, or representative, any so-called commitment, kickbacks, or commissions, whether in the amount of 25 percent of the total project budget of P360,000,000 or otherwise, either by reason of his position as senator or in connection with any DPWH flood control or infrastructure project,” it added.

The anti-graft court’s Fifth Division earlier denied Estrada’s motion, calling it premature and lacking legal basis.

However, the Sandiganbayan said the denial does not preclude Estrada from filing a proper petition for bail, where the prosecution will have the opportunity to present evidence proving the existence of a strong case against him.

“Accused Estrada’s instant motion effectively asks the court to fix the amount of bail without first resolving the antecedent question of whether bail may be granted at all. This the court cannot do,” the Fifth Division said.

US backs center against illegal fishing

By Katrina Manubay

PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan

—The United States on Thursday reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening maritime security and sustainable fisheries as it joined Philippine partners in launching the country’s first Community Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing Reporting Center in Puerto Princesa, describing the initiative as a way to connect fishers’ observations at sea with faster government action.

In his keynote address, US Embassy Environment, Science, Technology, and Health Officer Taylor Fitcher said IUU fishing poses economic and national security challenges.

“It depletes fish stocks, disrupts

supply chains, distorts markets, threatens food security, and puts responsible fishers and legitimate businesses at a disadvantage,” he said.

“It also weakens maritime security and undermines the rules that enable countries, communities, and businesses to operate with predictability and confidence,” he added.

Fish Right Program Chief of Party Nygiel Armada said the center aims to “shorten the gap” between reporting and enforcement of illegal maritime activities.

“The objective is straightforward: to create a practical and trusted link between voluntarily shared fisher observations and the Philippine institutions responsible for validation, coordination, and appropriate response,” he said.

During the presentation, the Philippines also requested that the Commission consider relevant rulings of tribunals established under the 1982 UNCLOS, including the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award, which definitively determined the maritime entitlements of littoral states in the region.

This marks the second time the Philippines has made a submission regarding an extended continental shelf entitlement. In April 2009, the Philippines submitted a partial claim concerning the Philippine Rise, which the CLCS validated in 2012, resulting in an additional 135,506 square kilometers of seabed area for the country.

DOH taps five former officials for UHC rollout

By Ram Superable

THE Department of Health (DOH) has created a new Council of Experts composed of five former health secretaries to speed up the rollout of Universal Health Care (UHC) across the country.

The advisory panel features former agency leaders Dr. Esperanza Cabral, Dr. Manuel Dayrit, Dr. Jaime Galvez Tan, Dr. Janette Garin, and Dr. Carmencita Noriega-Reodica.

Current Health Secretary Jose Pujalte Jr. said the advisory body demonstrates the department’s focus on grounded governance, historical continuity, and data-backed policy decisions.

“As we move forward with the implementation of the Universal Health Care Act, it is important that we draw from the wisdom, experience, and institutional memory of those who have helped shape our health system over the years,” he said.

The new council will address operational delays and refine strategic goals to align health sector reforms with the priorities outlined in the President’s latest State of the Nation Address.

“Through this initiative, the DOH reaffirms its resolve to pursue a health system that is more responsive, more equitable, and more resilient for every Filipino,” he said.

WPS MEETING. Department of Foreign Affairs officials pose for a group photo following the Philippines’ presentation of its partial submission to the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf, seeking recognition of its extended continental shelf entitlement off western Palawan in the West Philippine Sea under the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

FISHING

CENTER. US Embassy officials and Philippine partners launch the country’s first Community Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing Reporting Center in Puerto Princesa, Palawan to strengthen maritime security and enable faster government response to reports from fishers. Katrina Manubay

PNP intensifies probe on online provocateurs

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday intensified its operations to identify and arrest those behind social media accounts which encouraged disruption and public disorder during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA).

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to strengthen cyber monitoring and digital forensic investigations in coordination with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) and other partner agencies.

“The PNP, through our Anti-Cybercrime Group and in close coordination with the CICC and other partner agencies, is actively pursuing all available leads to identify those behind these online accounts,” Nartatez said.

The CICC earlier disclosed that it had flagged nine social media accounts linked to hacker groups that sought to foment public disorder and gatherings during the President’s SONA last July 27. The accounts have since been taken down after authorities preserved their digital data for investigation and turned over to law enforcement agencies.

Those responsible may face charges including computer fraud, identity theft, grave threats, and inciting to sedition or rebellion.

“We respect every Filipino’s right to free expression but we will take appropriate legal action against individuals who use digital platforms to incite violence, spread credible threats, or facilitate criminal activities,” Nartatez said.

Bohol’s academy for the deaf makes special chocolates

By Khris Marc Ronquillo

THE Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) has conferred awards on Bohol province and the entire Central Visayas Region for their initiative in teaching through the sign language persons with hearing impairment vocational skills that will enable them to access employment or engage in gainful activities.

The training facility, called Bohol Deaf Academy (BDA) located near the border of Tagbilaran City, has been helping deaf students in Bohol since 2005.

BDA is the province’s first and only private high school exclusively set up for deaf learners, with all instruction delivered in Filipino sign language.

The undertaking, called Karakoa Chocolate Project, emerged from a dynamic partnership between the BDA and the DOST, with the latter contributing the technology, training, capital, and opportunities that empower deaf workers.

For DOST-Bohol Provincial Director Dr. Vina Antopina, the project was more than about chocolates. “We were recognizing abilities others may overlook and creating opportunities for others to thrive. We were not creating a business but creating opportunities for them,” Antopina said.

Congress set to roll out people consultation setup

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE House of Representatives is set to launch

LegisHear, a national legislative consultation and oversight initiative, with Speaker Faustino III leading the roll out on Friday at Isabela State University in Echague, Isabela.

House Secretary General lawyer Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil said LegisHear is the first major step in the Speaker’s goal of making the House “more open, responsive, and peoplecentered by bringing legislative consultations directly to provinces across the country.”

Joining Speaker Dy during the launch are Negros Occidental Third

District Rep. Javier Miguel Benitez, officials of Isabela State University, representatives from partner national government agencies, local government officials, civil society organizations, educators, farmers, students, and other sectoral stakeholders. The event will also feature a town hall meeting, legislative discussions, focus group discussions, and public service activities.

“LegisHear reflects Speaker Bojie Dy’s vision of a Bagong Kongreso— one that does not wait for the people to come to Congress, but brings Congress closer to the people,” said Garafil.

“In his opening message for the second regular session, the Speaker emphasized that the House must ‘listen more intently, serve more faithfully, and remain accountable to the Filipino people.’ LegisHear transforms that commitment into action by ensuring that the voices of ordinary Filipinos help shape the laws that govern them,” she added.

Garafil explained that the initiative

is consistent with the House leadership’s belief that meaningful legislation must be grounded in the realities experienced by Filipinos around the country.

“Good laws are not crafted in isolation. They are bolstered by the experiences, aspirations, and recommendations of the people whose lives they seek to improve. Through LegisHear, Congress will listen, learn, and legislate with greater purpose,” Dy said.

LegisHear is a nationwide legislative engagement initiative designed to bring Congress closer to communities through consultations, policy dialogues, public hearings, and oversight activities.

It seeks to gather citizen input on pending legislative measures, evaluate the implementation of existing laws and government programs, strengthen congressional oversight, and institutionalize citizen participation in the lawmaking process under the guiding principle that “Bawat Batas Mahalaga (Every law is important).”

Cebu launches waste disposal platform

By Minerva Newman CEBU City

— The Cebu City gov-

ernment has launched the pilot testing of Citizen Action 360, a digital platform that allows residents to report and track waste management concerns as part of efforts to address the city’s continuing solid waste problems. The online platform enables residents to submit complaints on uncollected garbage, illegal dumping, and other waste management issues through the city’s official portal.

Users can also monitor the status of their reports in real time, improving transparency and accountability in the delivery of city services.

City officials said the pilot phase

is intended to gather public feedback and identify technical issues before the system is rolled out citywide.

“City officials emphasized that the platform is still undergoing testing and users may encounter minor bugs or system issues during the pilot phase,” the Public Information Office (PIO) said in a statement, urging residents to participate and help improve the platform.

The launch of Citizen Action 360 comes as Cebu City continues to grapple with a worsening solid waste crisis.

The city generates about 600 tons of garbage daily, placing significant pressure on its waste management system amid logistical challenges, landfill closures, and stricter environmental regulations.

IN BRIEF

4 Thais arrested at NAIA for marijuana smuggling

FOUR passengers from Bangkok, Thailand, were arrested upon arrival on Thursday at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 following discovery of 41,551 kilograms of suspected marijuana worth P62 million concealed in their luggage, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) reported.

According to the BOCNAIA, the marijuana packages were found inside eight pieces of luggage belonging to the Thais.

The bags were subjected to K9 inspection conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), prompting Customs authorities to conduct a full physical examination.

Meanwhile, the suspects were taken into custody pending further investigation and the filing of appropriate charges for alleged violations of the country’s Customs and illegal drug laws. Vito Barcelo

QC relaxes business permit acquisition

THE Quezon City government is making business permitting more inclusive for entrepreneurs through QC Biz Easy update. Mayor Joy Belmonte said inclusive governance means ensuring that every resident can access government services with dignity, respect and equal opportunity.

“The true measure of innovation is not how advanced a system becomes but how many people it empowers. By making our business permit process more inclusive, we are ensuring that more entrepreneurs can participate fully in the city’s economic growth and access government services in a way that recognizes who they are,” she emphasized.

Business permit applications in the city are now more genderinclusive after an enhancement to the QC Biz Easy platform, allowing applicants to select a non-binary gender option.

Rio N. Araja

Prelate urges caution on P330-b wind project

A CATHOLIC bishop in northern Luzon urges caution on the planned P330-billion BuhaWind offshore wind project in Ilocos Norte.

Bishop Renato Mayugba called for dialogue and scientific study, emphasizing that coastal communities and fishermen must not be affected by the project.

Oppositors feared that the project which will place turbines in waters near Pasuquin, Burgos, Bangui, and Pagudpud might adversely affect some 6,500 fishermen due to no-sail zones during construction. Environmental concerns include disruption of marine habitats on account of the underwater noise and foundation work.

Vito Barcelo

ARMY PROMOTIONS. Acting Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Donald Gumiran and Armed Forces of the

Philippines chief Gen. Antonio Nafarrete pose for posterity photos after pinning the insignias to Maj. Gen. Joey Escanillas,

newly minted head of the 3rd Infantry ‘Spearhead’ Division succeeding Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, and to Brig. Gen. Ramir Redosendo who takes over as assistant chief for operations. Army

WEEDING OUT MARIJUANA. Operatives Kalinga Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit destroy marijuana plants estimated at P27 million in the mountains of barangay Butbot, Tinglayan town. Dave Leprozo

OPINION

Unearthing Sara Duterte’s hidden wealth

THE Senate impeachment court is now entering what many believe could be the most decisive stage of the case against Vice President Sara Duterte. After hearing testimony about her alleged grave threats against President Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza AranetaMarcos, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, the spotlight is shifting to something that may prove even more important: her finances.

The court is expected to examine her bank accounts, tax records, and financial transactions reportedly flagged by the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC). Unlike testimony based on spoken words, financial records leave a paper trail. Documents, if authentic and complete, are often much harder to dispute than conflicting recollections of what someone supposedly said.

To me, the central question is simple: Did the Vice President accumulate wealth that cannot reasonably be explained by what she earned as vice mayor, mayor, and now Vice President?

That is a very serious accusation, and proving it will not be easy.

Public officials are required to file Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALNs) so the public can compare what they own with what they legally earn. If prosecutors can show that Sara Duterte’s assets, bank deposits, investments, or expensive purchases are far beyond what her official income could support, they may have a strong argument that she accumulated unexplained wealth.

But suspicion is not the same as proof.

Many people misunderstand the role of the AMLC. A transaction being flagged as “suspicious” does not automatically mean a crime has been committed. Banks are required by law to report unusual transactions. Those reports simply trigger further investigation. They become meaningful only if prosecutors can prove that the money came from illegal sources or that assets were deliberately concealed.

That, in my view, is where the prosecution faces its biggest challenge.

Showing large bank balances alone will not be enough. Prosecutors must trace the Vice President’s finances over many years, compare her legal income with her accumulated wealth, identify significant unexplained gaps, and demonstrate that those gaps cannot be explained by legitimate sources of income or ordinary accounting differences.

If money was placed in the names of relatives, business partners, or close associates, prosecutors must also prove that these people were merely holding assets for her. Without that link, the transactions by themselves may not establish ownership.

The defense, of course, has its own arguments. It can insist that every peso came from lawful sources such as family wealth, inheritance, legitimate businesses, investments, gifts allowed by law, or properly documented loans. Since the Duterte family

has been active in politics for decades, the defense may argue that not all of the family’s wealth came from the Vice President’s government salary.

Her lawyers are also likely to challenge the AMLC reports themselves, pointing out that suspicious transaction reports are investigative leads and not evidence of guilt. They may also question the prosecution’s financial analysis, arguing that mistakes in computing income, valuing assets, or tracing ownership weaken the entire case.

They may even argue that some financial records were obtained improperly or that impeachment is being used to pursue issues that belong in a criminal court rather than an impeachment court.

Unlike testimony based on spoken words, financial records leave a paper trail.

So, does the prosecution already have enough evidence to remove the Vice President from office?

From what I have seen so far, I do not think anyone can honestly answer that question yet. There have been reports about AMLC findings, but the actual bank records, tax documents, expert testimony, and explanations from both the prosecution and the defense have yet to be fully presented before the Senate impeachment court.

The burden of proof still rests squarely on the prosecution. It must convince the required number of senators that the evidence shows misconduct serious enough to justify removing a sitting Vice President. If the prosecution presents convincing financial evidence, then the defense must respond with equally convincing documents and explanations.

I believe this stage of the impeachment could ultimately matter more than the earlier testimony about alleged threats. Words can be misunderstood, denied, or interpreted in different ways. Financial records, when properly authenticated and carefully explained, speak for themselves. But even then, numbers alone do not prove guilt. They must clearly show that wealth came from unlawful or unexplained sources.

I hope the Senate decides this case not on political loyalties or public pressure, but on the strength of the evidence. If the Vice President’s wealth can be reasonably explained by lawful income and legitimate assets, she cannot be removed from office. But if the evidence convincingly shows otherwise, then the Senate must do its constitutional duty. Until all the evidence has been presented and tested in open court, any final judgment would be premature. ernhil@yahoo.com

Circle of life in Toraja

THE beauty of death is the life that comes before it - and the life after. This is the lesson I learned in the last five days visiting Tana Toraja. The Torajans taught me this quietly. Tana Toraja sits above the clouds in South Sulawesi. They call it the Land Above the Clouds, also the Land of Kings. Here the dead linger among the living for years. Families wake and bury them long afterward. Death becomes a slow and beautiful passage. The Torajans hold three states of being. Tolino means you are fully alive. Tumakula means you are sick, to other societies already dead, but to family and kin you are still lingering in the earth - someone to talk to, to bring problems to, to cry with. To membali puang means buried and sent onward. I visited a mother and her son. One has stayed sick five years, the other four. They are beautiful ghosts, and I believe it. We attended the funeral of Madame Yuliana. Her life was chanted in words I missed. Still the sound moved me deeply. Relatives came home from across Indonesia and beyond. Neighbors and distant kin gathered to honor her. Guests bring water buffalo as the highest offering. Pigs, palm wine, rice, and betel nut arrive too. The host family records each gift with care. A buffalo given today is repaid at future rites. We also witnessed the burial of Mr. Sarungallo. He was 85, of the Ke’te Kesu village. His family flew home from across Indonesia and the world. They gathered at their cemetery in Ke’te Kesu. Cliff graves

there stand guarded by wooden effigies. He had died seven months before this day. Until his burial, custom still counted him as sick. Watching him laid to rest, an old song returned to me. Bacharach once asked, through Alfie, what our brief lives mean. The song wonders if we should give more than we take. Toraja answers with kindness, memory, and enduring love.

Here, death becomes a slow and beautiful passage.

Buffalo sacrifice sits at the heart of Rambu Solo. These animals carry the soul toward Puya, paradise. Their number measures a family’s wealth and prestige. A noble funeral, for example, needs a hundred or more. We visited many Tongkonans. The name comes from tongkon, to sit together. Its roof sweeps up like a boat at sea. This honors ancestors who arrived by boat long ago. Every house faces north toward Puang Matua. North is the source of life and origin.

The rice barns face south in quiet rows. Danny and Dinny, our hosts in Toraja, found their land through two rainbows. They named their place the House of Two Rainbows. Their love is so beautiful that there was a ratatat in my heart when Dinny shared it to us.

Pax Silica: A chance PH should not waste

OUR country has long dreamed of moving beyond being just a source of cheap labor and becoming a player in the world’s hightechnology industries. For years, the realization of that dream has eluded us. But Pax Silica could finally give us the opportunity to make it a reality.

Pax Silica is a U.S.-led initiative that aims to build secure and reliable supply chains for semiconductors, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, and critical minerals among trusted partner countries. For us to have been chosen to host the first AI-native industrial acceleration hub within the Luzon Economic Corridor tells us that the country is now deemed a serious investment destination in industries that will shape the future. The economic gains alone are hard to ignore. The project could create between 130,000 and 190,000 direct jobs, while another half a million to 800,000 indirect jobs could emerge as supporting industries grow. Even better, most of these jobs are expected to go to Filipinos, with only a small number reserved for foreign executives. That means thousands of young engineers, technicians, IT specialists, and skilled workers may finally find rewarding careers at home instead of looking overseas. Government revenues could also re-

ceive a much-needed boost. Estimates indicate Pax Silica could generate as much as ₱180 billion annually, including around ₱68 billion to ₱75 billion in taxes for both national and local governments. These are resources that can help fund better schools, hospitals, roads, and other essential public services.

We cannot, however, ignore the risks.

The project offers more than jobs and taxes. It gives the Philippines a chance to climb higher in the semiconductor industry even if we already have decades of experience in semiconductor assembly and testing. Pax Silica could help us move into more advanced work such as chip design, advanced packaging, and AI development. Combined with our rich deposits of nickel, copper, and co-

By Melandrew T. Velasco

ON July 31, the nation marks the fourth death anniversary of former President Fidel V. Ramos—soldier, statesman, reformer, and perhaps one of the last great institution builders of Philippine democracy.

I had the rare privilege of working closely with FVR for nearly three decades as his family biographer and historian of the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation. I saw not only the public leader but also the reflective strategist who never underestimated the complexity of governing a nation.

Among the many lessons he imparted, one metaphor remains deeply etched in my mind. “The President is like a juggler trying to keep ten balls in the air while riding a monocycle on top of a tight wire.”

That was FVR’s vivid description of the presidency. Each ball represented an equally important concern—national security, the economy, foreign affairs, poverty, peace and order, agriculture, energy, infrastructure, education, and public trust. Drop one ball, and the entire performance could unravel. Lose balance on the wire, and the nation itself could fall.

The metaphor comes to mind after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address last July 27.

Whether one agrees with every policy or not, one portion of the speech resonated across political lines: his unequivocal declaration that the Philippines will not yield its sovereignty nor bow to intimidation. His closing words—”Sa manlulupig, hindi tayo pasisiil”—captured a growing national sentiment that the defense of the West Philippine Sea transcends politics.

It was a message of nationalism anchored not in aggression but in dignity.

Ironically, this is an area where FVR himself would likely have found common ground.

After all, it was during his administration that the Philippines began modernizing the Armed Forces after the painful lessons of

At Bori’ Kalimbuang, stone pillars rise like Stonehenge. Mourners carried each stone from the mountains. From rocks we came, to rocks we return. Faith here weaves Christian devotion with ancient belief. We heard Mass in a church inside a cave. Fr. Cornelius, a native Torajan, welcomed us warmly. He loves Baguio and balut from his Philippine visit. The shrine opens its doors to every faith. It teaches love of family and care for creation. Even non-Christians walk its Way of the Cross. We also visited Jesus Buntu Burake, which stands atop a hill near Makale. The bronze figure rises about 40 meters with its

balt that are essential for batteries and electronics, the country could become a much stronger link in the global technology supply chain.

Strategically, Pax Silica also strengthens our partnerships with the United States, Japan, and more than 30 other participating countries. Being part of a trusted technology network makes the Philippines more valuable not only as an investment destination but also as a reliable partner in the Indo-Pacific.

Still, we cannot ignore the risks. Large industrial projects always bring concerns about environmental protection, water resources, and the possible displacement of communities. Longterm land leases must be transparent and fair, while strict environmental safeguards should be enforced right from the get-go. Concerns raised by various groups should be addressed. Despite the purported benefits of Pax Silica, there must be great care and caution in pursuing it. Pax Silica is a rare opportunity for the Philippines to further expand its economy. Whether it becomes a turning point or another missed chance will depend on how efficiently we carry it out. If we get it right, future generations may look back on this moment as the time the Philippines finally claimed its place in the global technology economy.

Remembering FVR, four years after

the 1995 Mischief Reef incident. He understood that diplomacy carries greater weight when backed by credible national capability. Peace, he often reminded us, is not passivity. It is the product of preparedness, dialogue, and principled resolve.

FVR never believed in choosing between patriotism and pragmatism. He believed the President must simultaneously engage the world, strengthen alliances, maintain economic growth, preserve democratic institutions, and protect Philippine sovereignty. That is precisely the balancing act of the juggler on the wire. On this note, PBBM underscored this fact by declaring that the Philippines is back in business among the community of nations.

Filipinos deserve leaders who can balance competing interests without losing sight of the national interest

The challenge becomes even greater today with the Middle East war that requires the President to confront inflation while attracting investments. He must build infrastructure while ensuring fiscal discipline. He must eradicate corruption while preserving political stability. He must respond to climate disasters, pursue food security, navigate an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape, and at the same time unite a politically divided nation.

Those are not one or two balls.

They are all ten—and perhaps even more.

In hindsight, FVR never romanticized leadership. He knew every administration would face criticism. Every President would make difficult decisions that pleased some and disappointed others. But he insisted that leadership ultimately demands equilib-

base. Arms spread wide, it blesses the Toraja valleys below. Indeed, the Lord blesses this land.

One night we drank palm wine with young artists. They sang a love song about eternal devotion. In Toraja, where dying is beautiful, this matters. We sang together under a full Toraja moon. I felt spirits in the wind and clouds. This journey followed me home to my work. My law firm La Viña Zarate now helps some Mangyan families in Mindoro. We seek bones taken wrongly from their burial caves. The dead deserve their rightful rest everywhere. Still, I hold one honest reservation about

rium—the ability to see the entire horizon instead of merely today’s headlines. His governance philosophy was encapsulated in another favorite expression: “People Empowerment.”

Government succeeds not when one leader becomes stronger, but when institutions become stronger than personalities. That lesson remains profoundly relevant. In an era dominated by social media outrage, partisan politics, and geopolitical uncertainty, Filipinos deserve leaders who can balance competing interests without losing sight of the national interest.

Reflecting on the president as a juggler, here are realities facing PBBM: the tightrope has become narrower; the winds have become stronger; the balls have become heavier; and, yet the responsibility remains unchanged.

As we remember Fidel V. Ramos four years after his passing, perhaps the greatest tribute we can offer is not merely recalling his achievements but embracing the wisdom he left behind. The presidency is never a one-ball performance. It is the art of balance.

And balance requires not only courage, but discipline, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the Filipino people.

History ultimately remembers not the loudest leaders, but those who kept the nation steady while walking the highest wire. Yet one thing is clear: like every President before him, PBBM must keep all the balls in the air at the same time. That may well be the enduring legacy of Fidel V. Ramos—a President who understood that true leadership is not measured by applause, but by the ability to keep every vital ball in motion without ever losing sight of the nation below.

(Melandrew T. Velasco is the writer, president/chief executive officer of Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc.; and president/executive director of the Million Trees Foundation Inc., a non-government outfit advocating

these rites in Toraja. The costs can burden a grieving family for years. Some borrow deeply to buy the required buffalo. Yet the same rites renew bonds across a whole community. Kinship, memory, and shared grief may be worth the price.

In any case, we in the Samdhana Institute (which brought us to Toraja) do not make judgements on indigenous peoples.

The Samdhana Institute supports Indigenous peoples and local communities’ land rights. Its Fellows mentor others and give back accumulated knowledge.

For sure to understand Toraja, you must suspend your familiar worldview. Dinny calls it a magical reality. In Toraja, the circle of life, turns slowly and beautifully.

FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY

M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

Young PH climbers set national marks at world championships

By Randy M. Caluag

FILIPINO youth climbers Joaquin Torres and Praj Dela Cruz established new Philippine speed records to highlight the country’s campaign in the 2026 World Climbing Youth Championships in Arco, Italy.

Torres clocked 5.97 seconds in the men’s Under-19 speed competition, becoming the first Filipino male climber to break the six-second barrier. The performance erased the previous national mark of 6.08 seconds set by John Forones at the Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, last April.

Torres placed 23rd among 56 competitors in the event as the young Filipino climbers tested their skills against the world’s best from July 18 to 25.

Dela Cruz also delivered a recordsetting performance in the women’s U17 speed event, registering 8.982 seconds to finish 24th in a field of 39 climbers.

The 15-year-old Dela Cruz competed in all three disciplines and posted the Philippine team’s best overall campaign in the weeklong tournament. She placed 52nd out of 103 competitors in women’s U17 lead and finished 59th among 115 entries in boulder.

Abra smothers Pasig in MPBL

ABRA Solid North dominated Pasig City, 130-76, on Tuesday and tightened its grip on the lead in the SportsPlus MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 2026 Season at the Ynares Center Montalban in Rizal Province.

Led by Dave Ildefonso, the defending champion Abra Weavers surged ahead, 44-14, after the first quarter and never yielded control to extend their winning run to 15 and climb to 17-1 in the round-robin elimination phase of the two-division, 27-team tournament.

Showing why he’s the reigning MVP, Ildefonso carded a triple-double of 17 points, 14 assists and 10 rebounds plus 5 steals, to capture another SportsPlus best player honors over Tucker Molina, who had 18 points and 2 rebounds.

“We wanted to prove that we’re still the team to beat,” said Ildefonso, adding that he treated the Pasig encounter as “just another game.”

With Ildefonso drilling in 5 of 7 triple attempts and Molina hitting 3 of 4, the Weavers nailed 16 of 32 tries for a proficient 50 percent, against the Pasiguenos’ 6 of 21 for 28.6 percent.

Other Weavers who delivered were Shaun Ildefonso, Dave’s older brother, with 12 points and 12 rebounds; Jake Figueroa, with 12 points, 4 assists and 2 rebounds; Drex Delos Reyes with 10 points and 2 rebounds; and Redel Fabro, with 10 points.

The Weavers ruled the boards, 50-38, and exploited this to pour in 68 points in the paint against only 38 for the Pasiguenos, who tumbled to 10-9 and shared the six spot with the Meycauayan Marilao Gems in the North division.

Gianna Bliss Quintela wound up 92nd in women’s U17 lead, while Vans Gasapo placed 51st among 54 participants in the men’s U17 speed competition.

Although the Filipino climbers fell

short of reaching the medal rounds, Torres and Dela Cruz’s national records provided a major boost to the country’s developing sport climbing program.

The World Climbing Youth Cham-

pionships featured the leading young competitors in the U17 and U19 divisions across lead, speed and boulder events. Dela Cruz placed 52nd in lead, 24th in speed and 59th in boulder.

Hernandez, Sarines pad leads at halfway mark

LUBAO, Pampanga--Jet Hernandez and young Lisa Sarines stayed hot and unrelenting on Thursday, opening up huge leads in their respective divisions in the NGAP’s National Strokeplay Championship that has now left their fields scampering for the crumbs heading into the final two rounds.

The 21-year-old Hernandez gunned down 10 birdies in submitting a second straight seven-under-par 65 to now lead Rolando Bregente by a whopping 12 shots at the halfway mark of the men’s division with a 130 aggregate, while the 14-year-old Sarines matched par in a trying day at the Pinatubo layout of Pradera Verde for a 142 and a sevenshot lead over Tashanah Balangauan.

With the weather clearing somewhat, men’s scoring was a little lower compared to the first round, but Hernandez did not in any way cool off as he opened birdie-birdie and finished the same way for another effort no one in the field even came close to matching.

Effectively the defending champion after having won this event in 2024

before it wasn’t held last year, Hernandez said that he will come out for the next two days with the same mindset as he did in Day 1.

“There are still two rounds to be played,” the psychology senior at University of Denver said. “I will have the same mindset, the same goals and will stay in the present and stay calm (for the last two rounds).”

Chris Remata, also a member of the national men’s pool like Hernandez and Bregente, fired a 72, and Jed Dy returned a 71 to be a stroke behind Bregente and well within range of a podium finish even as Vito Sarines, the 13-year-old who started the day in second spot seven shots behind, skied to a 78 to now be 20 strokes off the pace.

Also in the mix for a top three finish in the men’s race are Paolo Barro and Emilio Hernandez, who fired a 74 and 75, in that order, to be at 148, just a stroke behind Remata. Jacob Rolida is another two shots back like Vito Sarines after shooting a 76. Lisa Sarines, meanwhile, labored

THEY say that it is very easy to criticize, blame, point fingers and demand accountability whenever our football team, be it men’s or the Filipinas, loses in an international game. More often than not, these outbursts or moments that call for changes, even resignation of officials, are born of frustration and disappointment.

The 4-1 loss against Myanmar last Tuesday night is not among those moments.

But three things first.

One, you can’t win a game in an international tournament with little or no preparation at all. Even World Cup champion Spain needs to prepare for any tournament. We are not Spain.

Two, you can’t win a game if you don’t respect your opponents enough.

Three, where is the press release from the hype machine?

How come our side lost to the same opponent we just demolished 5-1 several weeks ago? Some would argue that we didn’t have the players who won the game for us.

Many would argue that the football pitch at the New Clark Stadium was so bad. Oth-

Resign Canadian

ers would blame the weather, too. Even the players could be the convenient scapegoats.

The Designated Kit Man even overheard that we need a full-time coach to run the team and not just someone who would fly back to the country whenever there is a forthcoming tournament. Many are calling for the resignation of top Philippine Football Federation officials after the humiliating loss against Myanmar.

The football pitch at New Clark City was bad, but the visitors also played on the same pitch like our team did. And yet they made the most out of it, not only to avenge their previous defeat in a tune-up game but also to embarrass our team big time. Can’t blame the weather – the two teams are both on the same pitch playing under the same weather conditions. We also have a coach who could have made the needed adjustments, but then again… Blame the players then? After all, they were the ones who played and conceded an early goal. Probably, but these players still showed up despite the limited practice, short notice and other concerns.

WR Bughouse meet to hold Open tourney

THE highly successful inaugural WR Bughouse Championships staged early last month at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Taguig will have a reprise—the WR Bughouse Open set on Aug. 29 at the Quezon City MICE Center.

More than a hundred participants are expected to participate, including top masters from the country and in Asia for a chance to vie for a share of the total cash pot worth P620,000, with P100,000 going to the eventual champion. Isaac Chiu and Janak Awwatramani of Deep Waters bested Grandmaster Andrew Tang and FIDE Master Richard Zheng of The Angry Birds to rule the first staging of the event that was also participated in by World No. 3 Hikaru Nakamura and organizing WR founder Wadim Rosenstein. Interestingly, Rosenstein, a multimillionaire organizer and sponsor of top-notch players in chess, is one of the three who is running for president of FIDE, the sport’s world governing body, in polls set in September. Known as transfer chess, the one-day event will have a qualifying stage with the top 16 advancing to the knockout rounds to determine the titlist and the second and third placers, the latter two receiving P70,000 and P50,000, respectively. Aside from the podium finishers, the top 20 will also go home with a prize, the lowest at P5,000, with winners in the following categories— junior (U20), youth (U16), kiddie (U14), senior (50+), mixed, female, school and NCFP-affiliated club— each pocketing P5,250.

Supporting the event are the NCFP, host city Mayor Joy Belmonte and Vice Mayor Gian Carlo Sotto and the city’s Sports Development Office and

under a slow start, as she actually rallied from a twoover card after her first 10 holes as birdies on the 11th and 17th salvaged her level round.

Balangauan, a mul tiple leg winner in the Junior PGT series, had seven bogeys in a 76 and would need a really low third round to make a case for the ti tle on Friday. She is, however, still five shots clear of the third-running Precious Zaragosa, who also submit ted a 76.

Johanna Uyking was 16 shots be hind Lisa Sarines after a 77, with Crista Minoza another stroke off after skying to an uncharacteristic 80 lit tered by an 18th hole double bogey and seven bogeys.

It is normal for teams to lose, true. But what hurt the most was the way we lost the game, and several factors that doomed the team to the negative result.

Someone said it was just one loss, and the men’s team can still make up for the opening hiccup. I would say no to the opening hiccup; it was a nightmare, but yes, the team still has a chance to recover provided the team will play almost perfect football the rest of the group stage.

So who was at fault? Or more specifically, who should take the responsibility and accountability of the loss? For a sporting association so eager to grab credit from a recent mention aired on live television a day before the game, now a total silence? What happened? Nag-resign na rin ba ang writer?

Let’s wait until the tournament is over and hope that a miracle happens along the rest of the tournament, baka kasi kahit si Batman umayaw na rin. By the way, our next game is against Laos tomorrow, then Thailand on August 4 at home before rounding up group fixture action against Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur on August 8.

Speaking of Batman, it is very unfortunate that the country has pulled out of the 2027 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) U-20 Asian Cup Qualifiers. In an announcement, the AFC has confirmed the country’s withdrawal, leaving South Korea, Kyrgyzstan and Lebanon to duke

it out in Group A. As a consequence, the Philippines will now compete in the development phase of the 2029 AFC U-20 Asian Cup Qualifiers.

“Magsasabi sasali, tapos ngayon aayaw kasi malalakas ang mga kalaban?” an avid fan said to The Designated Kit Man. A fine and other sanctions might also be in the offing – just praying that no more miserable news falls on our hapless teams that not only battle bigger, more prepared, more supported and more loved opponents, plus adversities and petty issues off the football pitch.

The tournament could have been a preparation for prospects to eventually play for the senior team. As it stands, our U-20 players have lost that chance and more. We can’t bring back the lost time and answer a ton of what ifs.

“Actually, it is like shooting down two birds with one shot: iwas na sa bashing at makakatipid pa,” the frustrated fan added. In a wicked way, this may be true, but at what expense?

A source told The Designated Kit Man that the reason allegedly offered for this sad development is due to “financial reasons.” Stay safe. Stay happy peeps!

For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_cabatbat@ yahoo.com or follow his account on X (formerly Twitter): @erelcabatbat

Dave Ildefonso of Abra

The PH national youth team for sport climbing display the national flag. Pilipinas Climbing

June exports hit record $8.77b

By Thony Rose Lesaca

PHILIPPINE merchandise exports surged 24.1 percent to a record $8.77 billion in June 2026 from $7.07 billion a year ago, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Thursday.

Data from the PSA showed said the June growth outpaced the 8.6-percent annual increase recorded in May 2026.

Electronic products drove the increase, posting the highest annual growth in export value at $1.37 billion. Gold followed with an annual increase of $94.44 million, while electronic equipment and parts rose by $93.80 million.

Merchandise exports from January to June 2026 reached $46.72 billion, up 13.1 percent from $41.31 billion in the same period of 2025, also a record for the period since 1991.

Imports climbed to $13.711 billion in June 2026, up 19.6 percent from $11.46 billion a year ago, but the

figure was the lowest since April 2026, when imports totaled $13.710 billion. Import growth reached 28.2 percent in May 2026 and 15.8 percent in June 2025.

Electronic products posted the highest annual increase in import value at $2.16 billion, followed by cereals and cereal preparations, which rose $158.86 million, and mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials, up $95.91 million. Imports in the six-month period totaled $77.53 billion, up 17.8 percent from $65.79 billion in the same period last year, the highest level recorded since 1991.

The country’s total external trade in goods reached $22.48 billion in June

2026, up 21.3 percent from $18.53 billion a year earlier and the highest level since the series began in 1991. Total external trade grew 20.4 percent in May 2026 and 19.8 percent in June 2025.

Imported goods accounted for 61.0 percent of total external trade in June 2026, while exports made up the remaining 39.0 percent.

The balance of trade in goods posted a deficit of $4.94 billion in June 2026, up 12.3 percent from a year earlier, but it was the narrowest deficit recorded since February 2026, when the shortfall stood at $4.01 billion.

The trade deficit increased 67.6 percent in May 2026 and 1.4 percent in June 2025 on an annual basis.

Electronic products remained the country’s top export commodity in June 2026, generating $5.25 billion, or 59.9 percent of total exports. Other mineral products followed with $414.85 million (4.7 percent), and other manufactured goods contributed $401.37 million (4.6 percent).

billion

Exports in June 2026

billion

Imports in June 2026

billion

Trade deficit in June 2026

ICTSI’s Manila port concession extended until 2063 Pax Silica seen creating up to 500,000 PH jobs

By Darwin G. Amojelar

INTERNATIONAL Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) said Thursday it signed a 25-year extension of its concession agreement with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to continue operating the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT), pushing the lease expiration to May 2063 from May 2038.

The Razon-led port operator said the renewal reflects its long-term commitment to developing MICT further to support the growth of Philippine trade and the country’s economic development.

ICTSI earlier secured a $300 million senior unsecured corporate loan from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to fund the expansion and upgrade of three container terminals in the Philippines.

The financing will support technology-enabled infrastructure upgrades at MICT, the South Luzon Container Terminal (SLCT), which is under development in Batangas, and the Mindanao Container Terminal (MCT).

The investments are expected to raise annual container throughput capacity, improve berth productivity and contribute to Philippine economic growth.

The loan will also fund the purchase of fully electric quay cranes and the replacement of diesel-powered yard equipment, moves that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from terminal operations.

The project will raise MICT’s capacity to 3.7 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) by 2027, MCT’s capacity to about 1 million TEUs by 2028 and SLCT’s capacity to 800,000 TEUs by 2028.

ICTSI earlier reported net income of $293.57 million for the Januaryto-March period, up 23 percent from $239.54 million in the same period last year.

The company posted revenue from port operations of $961.11 million in the first quarter, up 29 percent from $745.42 million in the same period last year.

By Darwin G. Amojelar and Othel V. Campos

THE proposed Pax Silica project could generate between 180,000 and 500,000 digital and digitalrelated jobs, positioning the Philippines as a major destination for artificial intelligence and data center investments, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said.

DICT Secretary Henry Aguda told reporters in a roundtable interview that the projected employment figures are based on discussions with international technology investors and US government officials promoting digital infrastructure investments in the Philippines.

“Once Pax Silica happens... between 180,000 to 500,000,” Aguda said, referring to the project’s employment target.

Launched in December 2025, Pax Silica is a US-led initiative to build a secure innovation-driven silicon supply chain spanning critical minerals, energy, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence and logistics.

Aguda said the estimate originated from discussions with US Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jacob Helberg, who visited the Philippines and met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to discuss technology investments.

“As mentioned, when the President and I sat down during USec. Jacob Helberg’s visit, his opening line was, ‘This can produce 500,000 jobs,’” Aguda said.

The DICT chief said the jobs would extend beyond data center operations to include technical support, artificial intelligence services, cloud computing and other digital occupations that support the country’s expanding digital economy.

Kansai Electric acquires 14% stake in 600-MW Wawa pumped storage project

By Alena Mae S. Flores

JAPAN’S Kansai Electric Power Co. Inc. has agreed to acquire a 14-percent equity interest in PMJVCo Holdings Inc., the owner of the 600-megawatt Wawa Pumped Storage Hydropower Project in Rizal province, the company said Thursday.

The deal, covered by definitive agreements, was struck for an undisclosed amount and marks Kansai’s first pumped storage hydropower investment outside Japan.

PMJVCo is a subsidiary of infrastructure developer Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. led by businessman Enrique Razon Jr. It is also the parent company of Olympia Violago Water & Power Inc.

The Department of Energy has certified the facility, which features variable-speed pumped storage hydropower technology, as an energy project of national significance.

Following Kansai’s investment, PMJVCo will be 86-percent owned

AEV’s first-half profit jumped 63% to P13.6b

ABOITIZ Equity Ventures Inc. said Thursday its consolidated net income grew by 63 percent to P13.6 billion in the first half of 2026 on stronger contributions from its power, banking and food businesses. Second-quarter net income rose 40 percent to P7.3 billion from a year earlier, the listed conglomerate said in a disclosure to the stock exchange. Excluding non-recurring items, AEV’s core net income for the January-to-June period reached P13.7 billion, which the company said reflected sustained operational strength across its strategic business units.

“Our transformation is not defined by a single breakthrough, but by consistently making better decisions, executing with discipline and staying focused on long-term goals,” AEV president and chief executive Sabin Aboitiz said. Power unit AboitizPower remained the group’s largest earnings contributor, accounting for P10 billion in net income during the first half. AboitizPower expanded its renewable energy portfolio through the integration of the 797-megawatt Caliraya-Botocan-Kalayaan Hydroelectric Power Plant Complex and the completion of new solar projects in Olongapo, Armenia and San Manuel, the company said. UnionBank of the Philippines contributed P3.4 billion to AEV after posting a standalone net income of P6.9 billion during the period. Food and beverage operations was the group’s second-largest earnings contributor, generating P4 billion in net income. Jenniffer B. Austria Common rail station to open in Q1 of 2028 THE Department of

by Prime Hydropower Energy Inc., which in turn is 33-percent owned by FGEN Aqua Power Holdings Inc., a subsidiary of First Gen Corp.

First Gen said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange that the project will provide up to 6,000 megawatt-hours of daily energy storage capacity, supporting grid stability and enabling greater integration of renewable energy. Commercial operations are scheduled to begin in 2030.

Kansai’s 14-percent stake in PMJVCo is equivalent to an effective 12.18-percent indirect stake in Olympia Violago. The investment raises Kansai’s total attributable generation capacity in its overseas power portfolio to about 2,500 megawatts.

“KANSAI’s investment in the project will leverage its knowledge and expertise, and promote the development and expansion of renewable energy both in Japan and overseas, contributing to the realization of a zero-carbon society,” First Gen said.

Lopez said the DOTr has also devised measures to ensure commuters do not face difficulties transferring between trains while construction of the Common Station continues.

The DOTr has coordinated with Trinoma management, which pledged to provide a covered access way to MRT-3 to protect commuters from the sun and rain.

“Since that won’t be completed until the first quarter of 2028— because we are fixing the signaling system, which is essential for rail transport—what we are doing now is ensuring that once the North Avenue and MRT-7 stations are finished and operational, commuters can utilize the concourse and platform,” Lopez said. Darwin G. Amojelar Rockwell Land hikes stake in Alabang Town Center ROCKWELL

RAZON-LED Prime Energy Resources Development B.V., operator of Service Contract No. 38, has signed an interim natural gas supply arrangement with South Premiere Power Corp. (SPPC) to supply indigenous Malampaya gas to the 1,200-megawatt Ilijan Power Plant in Batangas province. The move is expected to reduce fuel costs by an average of P0.36 per kilowatt-hour and help lower electricity prices for consumers, the company said. Under the deal, Malampaya gas will be supplied to the Ilijan Power Plant from Sept. 1, 2026 to Feb. 25, 2027, helping reduce fuel costs by replacing more expensive imported fuel with indigenous natural gas. The cost-saving impact will soon be reflected in electricity prices.

Meralco recently announced a generation charge savings/reduction of about P0.36 per kWh beginning Sept. 1, highlighting the immediate benefit of indigenous Malampaya gas in helping moderate power costs for Filipino consumers.

The arrangement broadens the utilization of Malampaya gas across the

Luzon power sector.

By supplying one of the country’s largest power generation facilities, the agreement supports reliable electricity generation, provides fuel supply flexibility during the contract period, and contributes to a more resilient and diversified energy mix.

“This demonstrates that indigenous Malampaya gas can help lower electricity costs for consumers while delivering reliable energy supply,” said Donnabel Kuizon Cruz, president and chief executive of Prime Energy.

“Through this arrangement, the SC 38 Consortium and SPPC are reducing fuel costs, maximizing the use of existing infrastructure, and strengthening the country’s energy security. Every unit of indigenous gas that displaces imported fuel helps make electricity more affordable for Filipino households and businesses while reinforcing the country’s energy independence,” she said. As the country’s pioneering indigenous natural gas project, Malampaya continues to play a critical role in delivering affordable, reliable and cleaner energy.

Alena Mae S. Flores

Japan’s second-largest electric power company, for a visit to the Wawa Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Power Project (Wawa PSP) in Rizal. Led by president and chief executive Guillaume Lucci, Prime Infra welcomes KANSAI Hydropower Division general manager Yuichi Yamane and Hydropower Division development department general manager Koichi Ohta.

TRANSPORT

PH fast-tracks subway, rail projects

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) is accelerating the construction of the country’s flagship railway projects, with key portions of the Metro Manila Subway and the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) making significant progress as the Marcos administration pushes for faster, safer, and more efficient public transportation.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said tunneling for two critical sections of the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP) has been completed, marking significant progress on what is set to become the country’s first underground railway system.

“Tunneling for the section from Valenzuela to Quirino Avenue Station is already 100 percent complete. The same is true for the section from North Avenue to Tandang Sora,” Lopez said.

He said the accomplishment reflects President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to fast-track major infrastructure projects that will improve mobility for millions of commuters.

“This demonstrates that the administration places great value and importance on accelerating such major projects,” Lopez added.

The Transportation chief said the subway project is now about 60 percent complete, with the

“By 2028—before the President’s term ends—we can expect to see a demonstration run, at least for the section spanning from Valenzuela to Quirino Station,” he said.

Billed as the Philippines’ “Crown Jewel” of mass transit system, the Metro Manila Subway will cut across eight cities stretching from Valenzuela City to FTI-Bicutan in Parañaque City with a spur line to NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City. SoutheastAsians & Pacific Islanders

The 33-kilometer and 17-station rail line aims to cut travel time between Quezon City and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City from the present one hour and 10 minutes to just 45 minutes.

Once operational, the underground railway system can service up to519,,000 passengers daily.

The MMSP represents a monumental investment in the Philippines’ transportation future, with an estimated total cost of P488.5 billion. This significant sum is being financed through a strategic combination of international and domestic contributions.

A substantial portion of the project, specifically P370.7 billion, will be financed through an official development assistance (ODA) loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). This underscores the strong bilateral partnership between the Philippines and Japan, with Japanese expertise and funding playing a crucial role in realizing the country’s first underground mass transit system.

The remaining P117.7 billion of the total project cost will be covered by the Philippine government. This commitment from the national government highlights its dedication to addressing Metro Manila’s severe traffic congestion and improving the

In his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Marcos said the Valenzuela-to-Malolos segment of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) is scheduled to begin operations next year, bringing faster rail service to commuters in Central Luzon.

The DOTr is also working to complete the entire NSCR line extending to Clark, Pampanga, before the end of the Marcos administration.

Once completed, the NSCR is expected to accommodate 800,000 passengers daily and reduce travel time between Clark, Pampanga and Calamba, Laguna from around four hours to just two hours.

The President also announced that the first 12 stations of the MRT-7, stretching from Sacred Heart to North EDSA in Quezon City, are expected to open next year.

Upon full completion, when the line reaches San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, the MRT-7 is projected to serve approximately one million passengers daily, providing another major mass transit option for commuters traveling between Metro Manila and Bulacan.

Beyond rail projects, Marcos said the Santo Tomas City, Batangas-to-Tiaong, Quezon section of the South Luzon Expressway Toll Road 4 (SLEXTR4) will be completed this year.

The opening of Packages A through C is expected to reduce travel time between the two areas from two hours to just 30 minutes, benefiting an estimated 17,000 motorists each day.

The President said these transport infrastructure projects form part of the administration’s broader effort to modernize the country’s transportation network, improve connectivity, reduce travel times, and support economic growth by making the movement of people and goods more efficient. Darwin G. Amojelar

MARINA strengthens shipyard compliance

THE Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) is ramping up efforts to help Philippine shipyards meet evolving global standards by strengthening industry compliance, safety practices, and technical capabilities.

MARINA Regional Office VII, in partnership with the Shipyards Association of Cebu, recently convened shipyard operators, classification societies, industry experts, and maritime stakeholders for a two-day technical seminar in Cebu City focused on advancing the country’s shipbuilding and ship repair sector.

The seminar tackled key developments affecting the industry, including MARINA’s drydocking requirements, regulations governing afloat ship repair and service contractors, project management, marine coatings, fire protection systems, and non-destructive testing.

Participants also received updates from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on workforce development initiatives, as well as discussions on standard methodologies for tailshaft and propeller repairs.

MARINA Regional Director Engr. Ronaldo P. Bandalaria underscored the importance of close collaboration between the government and the private sector in strengthening the country’s maritime industry.

He said partnerships between regulators and industry stakeholders are essential to building a more resilient and globally competitive shipbuilding and ship repair sector capable of meeting both national requirements and international standards.

The event also featured the oath-taking of the newly elected officers of the Shipyards Association of Cebu, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to supporting the continued growth and modernization of the Philippine shipbuilding and ship repair industry.

According to MARINA, technical capacitybuilding initiatives such as the seminar are part of the agency’s broader efforts to enhance regulatory compliance, promote best practices, and improve the global competitiveness of Philippine shipyards as the maritime industry continues to evolve.

Modernized Lucena Port terminal to open next month

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said that the newly modernized Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) at the Port of Lucena will open next month, a development expected to strengthen maritime connectivity, increase passenger capacity, and support tourism and economic growth in Southern Luzon.

The Port of Lucena serves as a vital maritime gateway for Southern Luzon, connecting Quezon Province with the island provinces of Marinduque and Romblon through passenger and cargo services.

The new passenger terminal has expanded its seating capacity to 967, up from 607, allowing the facility to accommodate more travelers while providing a more comfortable and efficient travel experience.

According to the DOTr, the upgraded terminal is expected to improve passenger movement in the region and support the government’s efforts to enhance tourism, facilitate trade, and spur economic development in Quezon Province and nearby island destinations.

Transportation Secretary Lopez said the modernization project reflects President Marcos’ directive to raise the standard of the country’s transport infrastructure.

“President Marcos Jr.’s directive to us is that our facilities must be this impressive and modern to ensure a comfortable and seamless travel experience for our passengers and tourists. We will use this as the template for all our ports to help boost the local economy and tourism in the provinces,” Lopez said.

Lopez added that the upgraded terminal will help unlock Quezon Province’s economic potential by improving access for tourists, businesses, and residents who rely on maritime transport.

For his part, PPA General Manager Santiago said the expansion was designed to meet the increasing demand for passenger services at the port.

GCash launches cashback promo for LRT-2 and MRT-3 commuters

GCASH is expanding its support for cashless public transportation by offering cashback incentives to commuters who pay for train fares using the GCash Commute QR feature on LRT-2 and eligible MRT-3 trips.

The month-long promotion runs from July 20 to Aug. 20, 2026, allowing eligible commuters to receive 20 percent to 30 percent cashback on their train fares. Cashback will be credited directly to users’ GCash e-wallets based on the scheduled payout dates.

The initiative is part of GCash’s broader effort to encourage the adoption of digital payments for everyday services, including public transportation.

“Innovation is most meaningful when it removes everyday friction and makes essential services more accessible. With GCash Commute QR, we’re making cashless commuting simpler,’ Ferdie Perez, vice president and head of innovation at GCash said.

Perez said the cashback campaign is designed to encourage more commuters to experience the convenience of digital fare payments while

providing added value for their daily travel.

“This cashback promo is a way to help invite more commuters to experience the ease of using digital fare payments and brings added value on their everyday journeys,” he added.

Under the promotion, commuters with fully verified and active GCash accounts who pay their fares through GCash Commute QR can avail themselves of exclusive cashback offers.

LRT-2 passengers are eligible for 20 percent cashback on qualified rides during the promotional period. Meanwhile, firsttime GCash Commute QR users on MRT3 can receive 30 percent cashback on their first three rides until Aug. 20, 2026. GCash said it continues to work with transport partners to expand the availability of cashless payment options, supporting efforts to make public transportation more convenient and accessible for Filipino commuters as digital payments become increasingly integrated into daily travel.

MPHI bags 3 major sustainability awards in Santa Rosa

MPCALA Holdings Inc. (MPHI), a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) and concessionaire of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX), has been recognized by the City Government of Santa Rosa, Laguna for the fourth consecutive year, for its unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. Presented during the city’s annual Guarantee the Restoration of the Environment & our Ecological Niche (GREEN) Awards, which honors organizations and individuals making significant contributions to ecological protection, CALAX secured three major accolades this year. The company was named a Sustainable Development Partner for its active participation in coastal clean-ups that help preserve ecosystems, reduce pollution in Laguna Lake, and mitigate climate change. It was also recognized as a Renewable Energy and

Energy Efficiency Partner for its excellence in cutting energy consumption and implementing renewable solutions across its facilities, as well as an Earth Hour Advocate for championing energy conservation and supporting the global Earth Hour movement.

MPHI representatives accepted the honors on behalf of the company.

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from the City Government of Santa Rosa. These awards reflect our commitment to integrating sustainability into every aspect of our operations, from building greener infrastructure to adopting environmentally responsible practices,” Andrew B. Pangilinan., MPHI president and general manager said.

“As we continue to expand CALAX, we remain dedicated to proving that infrastructure development and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand,”he added.

FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

SHOWBIZ

Robb Guinto takes on new challenge with first solo showcase

By Angelica Villanueva

ROBB Guinto has become familiar with the spotlight, the demands of film sets, and the attention that comes with being one of VMX’s most recognizable stars. However, standing alone before a live audience presents a different kind of test for her.

The actress faced that challenge on July 29 when she headlined Solid Gold: The Robb Guinto Experience at Viva Café, her first solo showcase after years of building her career in streaming films and television.

In an exclusive interview with Manila Standard Entertainment , Robb admitted that despite the milestone, she still wonders whether her name alone is enough to draw a full house.

“I’m not that confident that I can fill Viva Café,” she said, adding that being known on social media does not automatically convince people to buy tickets. Rather than dwell on those doubts, Robb said she wanted the audience to leave feeling they got their money’s worth.

“I hope we can meet their expectations with everything we’ve prepared and that they’ll be satisfied with what they paid for,” she continued.

The show featured solo performances from Robb, along with production numbers with fellow VMX actresses Roxanne De Vera, Margaret Sison, Paula Santos,

and Aila Cruz . She promised a lively performance, joking that fans should bring towels and an extra shirt because the cast planned to turn up the heat on stage.

The actress said she never imagined receiving her own showcase and believes the opportunity came only after years of learning and improving as an actress.

“Maybe management saw that I was finally ready and could already handle it,” she shared.

Looking back, Robb said she once questioned why her career was not moving as quickly as she had hoped. She now sees that period as part of her growth.

Her television work, particularly in GMA programs, also helped expand her confidence. Playing both protagonists and antagonists showed her she was capable of more than she initially believed.

“I would surprise myself and say, ‘Oh my God, I can do this.’ I thought that was all I could offer, but there were still hidden talents I hadn’t discovered,” she explained.

Rider

Ten women have come forward in a BBC documentary accusing Jared Leto of sexual assault and harassment

By Angelica Villanueva

SB19 member Josh Cullen threw the ceremonial first pitch before the Chicago White Sox faced the New York Yankees at Rate Field in Chicago.

On Thursday, July 30 (PST), Josh took the mound as SB19’s hit song “Gento” played throughout the stadium before he delivered the ceremonial pitch.

SB19 joined a select group of Filipino personalities who have thrown ceremonial first pitches at Major League Baseball games, including Manny Pacquiao, Liza Soberano , and comedian Jo Koy The baseball event came days after the group performed at the Grammy Museum as part of its U.S. promotions.

Robb has starred in several VMX original titles, including X-Deal 2 , Sugar Baby , Vigilante , Ligaw , Kiskisan , Foursome , Kaulayaw , Showroom , and Unang Tikim . She has also appeared in television programs such as Pepito Manaloto

and Mga

While being regarded as one of VMX’s top stars is flattering, Robb admitted the label also comes with pressure because she knows fans look up to her.

She said she unwinds after long shooting days by catching up on sleep before rewarding herself with shopping. During the event, fans participated in games and got their hand on exclusive merchandise.

Jared Leto denies sexual assault allegations in

US actor and singer Jared Leto on Wednesday denied allegations of sexual assault and harassment leveled against him by 10 women in a new documentary aired by the BBC.

The women said they were victimized by Leto between 2002 and 2016.

Two of them accused him of sexual assault when they were 17 years old, while another said the actor threatened her with sexual assault when she was 19. A fourth woman recounted receiving

SB19 is set to continue its overseas schedule with its debut at Lollapalooza on July 31 (PST). The group will then hold its I WaS There Thanksgiving Fanmeet in the United States on Aug. 8 and 9 before performing at Summer Sonic in Japan on Aug. 14 and 15. The Japan leg of the fan meeting will conclude on Aug. 18. Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism (DOT) will host a public watch party for SB19’s Lollapalooza performance today at the Rizal Park Open Air Auditorium in Manila.

multiple sexually explicit phone calls from the actor when she was 16, during which he allegedly propositioned her for sex.

Four other women described experiencing sexual harassment during phone calls from the lead singer of the rock band Thirty Seconds to Mars “I have never sexually assaulted anyone in my entire life,” the 54-yearold actor said in a statement. “These claims are absolutely and categorically false.”

PHILIPPINE bets Katrina Llegado and Felipe Marasigan are vying in the finale of the 17th Miss Supranational 2026 and 10th Mister Supranational 2026, to be held in Nowy Sącz, Lesser Poland, today (July 31) and tomorrow (Aug. 1), respectively.

The 28-year-old Llegado, a cum laude graduate in Financial Management from De La Salle University and a Philippine Air Force military reservist, previously competed in Reina Hispanoamericana 2019 in Bolivia, where she placed as 5th runner-up. This time, the beauty queen is competing against 66 delegates from around the world and was named in the Top 21 of the Miss Supra YouTube Influencer Opportunity, a fan-vote fast-track challenge. Llegado is eyeing a second title win after Mutya Johanna Datul ’s victory in 2013. Marasigan, a 28-year-old, 6-foot4 athlete and a graduate in Business Intelligence and Analytics from De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde, was born and raised in Fremont, California, USA, but returned to his parents’ province of Tiaong, Quezon, to pursue his studies. He played for the Philippine national handball team at the 2025 Thailand SEA Games. Competing against 40 delegates,

BBC docu

Nine of the 10 women are speaking out for the first time in the BBC documentary titled Jared Leto: Hollywood’s Dark Secret

The actor, who won a Best Supporting Actor Oscar in 2014 for Dallas Buyers Club , has faced similar accusations before.

In 2025, several other women accused him of sexual assault in an investigation conducted by Air Mail, a US digital magazine. At the time, Leto also denied any inappropriate conduct. AFP

Marasigan was named among the Top 10 Super Chat Challenge finalists. He is aiming to become the country’s first Mister Supranational winner. In the past two years, the country has come close to winning the title, with Brandon Espiritu placing 2nd runner-up in 2024 and Kenneth Cabungcal finishing as 4th runner-up in 2025. The Supranational Organization holds the Festival of Beauty 2026, a global celebration uniting Miss Supranational 2026, Mister Supranational 2026, and Miss Polski 2026 pageants into one world-class production platform celebrating culture, excellence, and international collaboration. Reigning Miss Supranational 2025 Eduarda Braum and Mister Supranational 2025 Swann Lavigne will crown their successors.

as the pageant finals unfold in Poland

Josh Cullen takes the mound ahead of SB19’s Lollapalooza show

Felipe Marasigan (left) and Katrina Llegado represent the Philippines in Mister Supranational and Miss Supranational

Black

Bubble Gang Tadhana

Batang Riles

Robb Guinto pivots to live performance following her VMX success

Coffee farmers share stories of passion

By Nickie Wang

PHILIPPINE coffee farmers, roasters, artisans, and entrepreneurs gathered at the Biyaya Sustainable Living Festival to celebrate the people and communities behind the country’s coffee industry while creating opportunities for local businesses to grow.

Organized by the Coffee Heritage Project in partnership with SM for MSMEs, Manila Coffee Festival, Coffee Expo Manila, and other public and private sector partners, the three-day event at SM Megamall featured more than 300 local brands and 150 exhibitors showcasing Philippine coffee, craftsmanship, and sustainable products.

Digital bank simplifies digital borrowing

LEADING digital bank Maya has increased the borrowing limit for its Personal Loan product to up to P400,000, giving eligible users more flexibility in financing major life goals, from business expansion and home renovations to personal investments.

The digital financial services platform said users can apply directly through the Maya app without paperwork or collateral. Once approved, loan proceeds are credited directly to their Maya Wallet.

The higher loan limit comes with repayment terms of up to 48 months, allowing borrowers to manage payments through predictable monthly installments.

The fully digital application process aims to simplify borrowing by removing traditional requirements such as preparing documents, completing multiple forms, and making bank visits.

Through Maya Personal Loan, users can move from planning to action with a faster and more convenient borrowing experience, subject to credit evaluation and eligibility. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. For more information, visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph.

“At SM Supermalls, we believe our role goes beyond providing places where people shop. Through our SM for MSMEs program, we create platforms where MSMEs can be discovered, local brands can flourish, and communities can thrive,” Cabunag said. One of the festival’s highlights was the recognition of Filipino coffee producers on the global stage through AVPA. Villicana received the prestigious Gourmet Gold Medal (Hors Catégorie) for Coffee Bean Excellence.

“Ang lupa sa amin at ang mga tao ang nagpasarap ng aming kape. Biyaya po iyan talaga (It is the land and the people in our community that make our coffee special. It is truly a blessing),” Villicana said.

Daniel Maches, co-founder of Banolmi Enterprises in Mountain Province, shared how coffee farming also supports environmental conservation.

“We are encouraging communities to plant coffee while at the same time protecting the rainforest and natural ecosystems,” he said.

Justina Alcosaba Pari-an, chairwoman of the Rempes Modern Farmers Agricultural Cooperative in Maguindanao and an AVPA Silver Medal recipient, said improving coffee production has helped strengthen their community’s livelihood.

Sa pamamagitan ng tamang proseso, tumaas ang kalidad at halaga ng aming kape. Ngayon, tunay na itong nagbibigay ng pangkabuhayan sa aming komunidad (Through proper processing methods, the quality and value of our coffee have increased. Now, it truly provides a livelihood for our community),” she said. The festival also featured entrepreneurs like Raven Salvador, owner of After Hours, who turned her curiosity about coffee into a growing business.

“I got curious about coffee, and that curiosity turned into a passion. I started learning more about it and eventually combined that passion with my dream of starting a business,” Salvador said.

Visitors experienced coffee tastings, artisan demonstrations, cultural performances, educational talks, and Meet the Makers sessions featuring the farmers, roasters, and entrepreneurs behind local products.

Through Biyaya and initiatives under SM for MSMEs, SM continues to provide platforms for Filipino entrepreneurs to gain market access, increase visibility, and connect with more communities.

A COMPANY celebrated its 40th anniversary by honoring employees who helped shape its success, rewarding around 90 long-tenured workers with an allexpenses-paid trip to Hong Kong.

The four-day, three-night trip last April was given to employees who have been with the company for at least five years, regardless of position or rank.

“On the occasion of our 40th founding anniversary this year, our company decided to make the celebration more memorable by bringing all employees who have been with the company for at least five years, regardless of rank and file, on a 4-day-3-night all-expenses-paid trip to Hong Kong,” Hanabishi president Jasper Ong said.

According to Ong, the company’s success is built on the dedication and loyalty of its employees, adding that the initiative reflects an inclusive workplace culture.

“Our universal tenure trip reflects our company’s inclusivity and demonstrates that there is no ‘us versus them’ culture in our workplace. We are one big family with approachable leadership,” he said.

Organized by Golden World Travel & Tours Inc., the trip included visits to Hong Kong Disneyland, Victoria

Peak, Mong Kok, and a scenic night cruise.

Among the employees who joined was W7 supervisor Leonides Villanueva, who has been with the company since 2003. He said he was proud to witness the company’s growth and expanding product range.

Service Parts Department employee Ian Pluma, who joined the company in 2013, recalled seeing its commercials as a child before becoming part of its workforce.

“I have witnessed how our parts and products grew over the years. I can still remember when we used to rent a warehouse. Now we have our own warehouse,” Pluma said.

Quality control engineer Kathleen Grace Ariola also shared how she witnessed the company’s growth through product testing and development.

“Since almost all new product models pass through our department for testing, I can clearly see the company’s progress and development,” she said.

For longtime employees, the company’s family-oriented culture remains a reason for their loyalty.

Jessica Tayupon, who has been with the company for 20 years, described the workplace as a second home.

“It’s just a family vibe. The kind where you’re working, but you don’t come in feeling nervous or afraid because the bosses are really kind. Here, it feels like you’re in your second home,” she said.

Sales staff member Irene Villanueva, who has been with the company for 18 years, said the support and guidance she receives make her work meaningful. Ong said the company will continue to preserve its employeecentered culture through approachable leadership, training opportunities, and a workplace where employees feel valued. And as the company enters its next chapter, Ong said it remains committed to creating opportunities for employees while building on four decades of growth.

By Jehan Gusto

GCASH recently premiered its sixth GCash Story, “Kasama Mo Mangarap,” featuring the inspiring journey of Attorney Sheila Gomez Attorney Sheila worked her way through law school as a working student. Despite all her hard work, she did not pass the Bar Exam on her first attempt. However, that setback did not stop her from pursuing her dream of becoming a lawyer. As a self-supporting student preparing for her second attempt, Atty. Sheila faced another challenge: she did not have enough money to enroll in a review center. Through GLoan, a GCash lending feature powered by Fuse, she was able to access the financial support she needed to enroll and continue her preparation.

On her second attempt, Attorney Sheila successfully passed the bar exam and finally earned the title of lawyer. Stories like Attorney Sheila’s reflect the vision that GCash and Fuse hope to champion: empowering Filipinos to pursue their dreams by providing accessible financial solutions. When used responsibly, digital lending services can help open doors, giving people a fair chance to overcome challenges and continue moving forward. Through initiatives like GLoan, GCash continues to support stories of perseverance, resilience, and second chances, helping Filipinos find the courage to start again and turn their aspirations into reality.

Atty. Sheila Gomez turns a failed first attempt at the Bar into a comeback story about work, study, and second chances

Coffee growers, roasters, and small entrepreneurs meet visitors at SM Megamall as local producers seek wider market access

Aling Felipa Lyn Delusen Villicana brings Sagada coffee to a wider audience after earning international recognition for bean excellence

The festival opened with award-winning coffee farmer Aling Felipa Lyn Delusen Villicana of Sagada, Mountain Province, and representatives from the Agency for the Valorization of Agricultural Products (AVPA)

Royston Cabunag discusses how SM platforms can help homegrown businesses reach more customers and build community support

FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026

Editor

NICKIE WANG,

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,

Writer

Writer

JASPER VALDEZ,

By Nickie Wang

AT Sunshine Place

Senior Recreation Center, a blank canvas is an invitation to create and begin again.

That spirit filled The Podium Atrium during the ninth Coloring Lives fundraising art exhibit, where children, working professionals, and senior citizens showcased paintings, porcelain art, ikebana arrangements, and decoupage pieces, each with its own story of creativity, growth, and self-discovery.

The exhibit showcased works by students from all seven of Sunshine Place’s art programs, proving that creativity can flourish at any age. On display were 55 framed paintings from the center’s intermediate, advanced, beginner, children’s, and watercolor classes, along with 26 porcelain paintings, 15 Ikebana-Sogetsu flower arrangements, and 24 decoupage pieces.

Coloring Lives: Where every brushstroke tells a new story

Among those in attendance was renowned sculptor and glass artist Impy Pilapil, who came to support her sister Bella, a dance student at the center. Also present was the family of artist Elena Fernandez, led by her husband, dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Manuel Fernandez of Makati Medical Center.

For many participants, artistic talent has become a family affair. SM Foundation’s Linda Atayde studies ikebana , while her granddaughter Mandy enjoys painting. Decoupage student Dolly Borlongan celebrated alongside her daughter Kat who recently received France’s National Order of Merit, the country’s secondhighest civilian distinction.

The exhibit also showed that creative journeys begin at different stages of life.

Sixteen-year-old Regina Lim , who

started in Sunshine Place’s children’s art class at age 14, said landscape painting allows her to express her emotions through color. At the other end of the spectrum is 85-year-old Erlinda “Leni” Araullo who was recognized as one of the Top 50 finalists and an honorable mention recipient in the 21st GSIS National Art Competition.

“Sunshine Place has given us a beautiful place to continuously grow, express ourselves, and creativity knows no boundaries,” Araullo said.

The center has also shaped its instructors.

Watercolor artist James Empeño discovered the medium during the pandemic and found it therapeutic. Porcelain art teacher Mee Lee Casey, who joined Sunshine Place in 2017 after teaching in Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Australia, Brazil, and Thailand, said watching students gain confidence

SOME stories begin with a question. Others begin with a miniature sparkly bag. Welcome to Random Raid, a new lifestyle feature here on Random Talk, where I’ll take a peek inside a person’s bag, portfolio, dressing room, or any collection of everyday items to discover the stories they carry. Sometimes, the things people keep reveal more about them than a formal interview ever could. Our first Random Raid happened completely by chance. During a pocket interview with 17-year-old Viva artist Xia Vigor, I couldn’t help but notice how polished yet effortless she looked. Her soft, voluminous curls, pinned with cute clips, framed her face perfectly, while her glowing, softglam makeup looked fresh yet put together. Then came the surprise. I found out that she did both her hair and makeup herself. The confidence to do that didn’t happen overnight.

Many of us first met Xia as the adorable child actress in the award-winning Miracle in Cell No. 7 in 2019. This year, she reunites with her onscreen father, Aga Muhlach, in 2nd Miracle in Cell No. 7, an official entry to the 2026 Metro Manila Film Festival. While fans are waiting for that reunion, I found myself getting to know another side of her through something much simpler: the contents of her bag. When I jokingly asked if I could raid it, Xia smiled and readily agreed. Her tiny bag housed just a handful of carefully chosen essentials. Her favorites included a blurring setting powder

and they give back.”

The exhibit serves as a reminder that creativity is not defined by age or experience. Some participants are only beginning to discover their artistic voice, while others are returning to a passion they set aside years ago. Together, they show that learning, creating, and giving back can continue at every stage of life.

Sunshine Place is a recreation center under the Felicidad Tan Sy Foundation and an SM Retail affiliate. It offers classes in art, crafts, dance, fitness, music, therapy, and writing for children, adults and seniors. The center is located at 56 Jupiter St., Barangay Bel-Air, Makati City. For more information, visit www.sunshineplaceph. com, call (+63) 917-515-5656, or email hello@ sunshineplaceph.com.

and build friendships remains the most rewarding part of her work.

Now in its ninth year, Coloring Lives has grown from a small fundraising exhibit at Sunshine Place’s Makati center into an annual showcase supporting charitable institutions. This year’s proceeds will benefit Nazareth Bahay ng Pag-ibig, a home for abandoned elderly women. Previous beneficiaries include San Lorenzo Ruiz Home for the Elderly, Kanlungan ni Maria Home for the Aged, the National Center for Mental Health and Josefheim Elderly Care Community.

“Every work in this exhibit began with a student who was not sure what they were capable of,” Sunshine Place president Lizanne Uychaco said. “Nine years of Coloring Lives is proof of what happens when people are given a community that believes in them. They grow, they create,

“Usually on set or

began quite early. “When I was about 10 years old, I really loved doing makeup with rainbow eyelids and very bold

looks that weren’t natural at all, just super artsy,” she recalled. “I really love drawing, so makeup has really been a form of art for me.” For Xia, makeup wasn’t about looking older or different. It became another canvas for the artist in her.

Today, while her looks have become softer and more wearable, she still sees makeup as a form of self-expression.

If Xia could only keep three products, she’d choose concealer, blush, and lip gloss. And her favorite?

“Blush,” she immediately said. “You can never have enough blush.”

The young actress and rising Viva star smiled as she described her preferred “sunburn look,” explaining that it gives a fresh finish that suits teens.

More than anything, Xia hopes young people don’t mistake makeup for something meant to hide who they are. Although she often appears flawless on screen and in photos, Xia openly admitted that she also struggles with breakouts. She said, “My skin isn’t perfect. People on social media show their perfect skin and all that. But I really do break out, too. And it’s normal. It’s something that we shouldn’t be ashamed of.”

It’s a refreshing perspective in an era of filters and flawless photos. Rather than transforming herself, Xia believes makeup should simply bring out what’s already there.

“It’s important that we don’t change anything, but just enhance your features instead of changing them,” she explained.

“Make sure you have a really good base,” Xia said, offering a tip to other teens just about to explore makeup and its powers in their lives. “Do your skincare first before makeup. Your moisturizer and primer are non-negotiable if you want your base to really look good the whole day.”

And when it comes to skincare, she keeps it simple. Moisturizer and sunscreen remain her everyday must-haves.

Perhaps what stood out most during our conversation wasn’t her makeup must-have, but her view on makeup. “I think it’s okay to wear makeup. It’s not something that we need to wear every day. Only when they feel a little down, and if it helps lift us up, then why not?” Xia said. She was quick to add that makeup shouldn’t become a requirement. Going to school with just tinted sunscreen or no makeup at all is perfectly fine, too. Beauty, Xia believes, should always be a choice, never a pressure.

For someone who has spent most of her life in front of cameras, Xia carries herself with honesty and kindness. Inside her bag were only a few beauty essentials. But tucked between the powder and the blush was a valuable reminder that confidence doesn’t come from covering imperfections. It comes from accepting them.

As she steps into more grown-up roles and audiences watch her grow, one thing is already clear: Xia Vigor’s beauty philosophy is every bit as refreshing as her doll-like face.

For your random thoughts, e-mail the author at randomrepublika@gmail.com. and enthusiasts), a triangular makeup sponge, a sparkly lip gloss, and a pot of concealer she keeps close for quick touch-ups. The bag itself reflected her approach to beauty. It was practical, intentional, and uncomplicated. Growing up around professional makeup artists and watching their techniques for years, Xia prefers doing her own makeup whenever possible.

Young artist Regina Lim beside her ‘Peace in Bloom’ artwork

Renowned sculptor and glass artist Impy Pilapil (right) with her sister Bella (left), who takes dance lessons at Sunshine Place, with Sunshine Place president Lizanne Uychaco (center)

From left: Sunshine Place Center Head Gilda Reyes, Ikebana student Susie Yap, SAVP Iryn Balmores, and senior accounting manager Julie Cipriano at the fundraising art exhibit

The ninth Coloring Lives fundraising art exhibit at Sunshine Place Senior Recreation Center showcased 119 artworks by children, working professionals, and senior citizens

Erlinda ‘Leni’ Araullo is one of the Top 50 finalists, receiving an Honorable Mention award at the 21st GSIS National Art Competition

SM Supermalls EVP Jonjon San Agustin (left) and SAVP Ian Mathay grace the exhibit