Manila Standard - 2026 August 3 - Monday

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ERC orders Meralco to refund

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has ordered Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) to refund P9.5 billion to consumers over six months under the actual weighted average tariff (AWAT) trueup mechanism, providing relief amid elevated electricity prices.

The refund, equivalent to an average of P0.3448 per kilowatt-hour, stems from the difference between Meralco's approved distribution tariff and its AWAT. Residential customers will receive a refund of about P0.5861 per kWh.

The ERC directed Meralco to reflect the adjustment as a separate line item in customers' electricity bills using the label "AWAT (Refund)/Collect" and to implement the refund beginning with the next billing cycle. The company was also ordered to submit periodic reports until the refund has been fully completed.

The commission also ordered Meralco to refund P554.786 million in lifeline over-recoveries to non-lifeline customers, P2.245 million in senior citizen subsidy over-recoveries to subsidizing customers, and P27.337 million in local franchise taxes. However, in a separate order covering Meralco's over- and under-recoveries, the

Senate to decide continuing Blue Ribbon flood control probe

By Ram Superable

By Rio N. Araja

HUMAN rights lawyer Antonio Bucoy is asking the Office of the Ombudsman (OMB) why it is specifically targeting former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and using testimonies that the Ombudsman itself has discredited.

Bucoy said the OMB is using the statements of eight former bodyguards of ex-Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co which the anti-graft body itself, along with the Department of Justice (DOJ), has dismissed as not credible. He said the eight men were among the 18 erstwhile bodyguards called “maleta boys” whose testimonies have all been repudiated by the OMB and the DOJ.

Bucoy asserted that he is for accountability, but that this must be based on credible evidence.

Bucoy claimed that the OMB was apparently bending the required standard of evidence in investigations to target Romualdez.

He said if this could be done to the former House leader, it could happen to ordinary Filipinos similarly situated.

He said investigations should follow a single, consistent standard of evidence, which he noted OMB investigators have failed to observe.

In a statement over the weekend, former Speaker Romualdez said all he

By Rio N. Araja

witnesses.

‘Luis’ triggers signal no. 1 over Bicol

By Rio N. Araja

TROPICAL depression "Luis" continued moving northwestward over the Philippine Sea east of Aurora on late Sunday afternoon, with its center was estimated at 285 kilometers east of Baler, as tropical cyclone wind signal no. 1 remains over parts of Bicol.

Based on the 5:00 p.m. forecast of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), “Luis” was moving northwestward at 15 kilometers per hour (kph) with maximum sustained winds of 55 kph near the

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"That's going to depend on the prosecution's strategy. Right now, if you look at it, the ball is in their court. It hinges on what evidence they present," he said in an interview over radio network dzBB.

"If they already have rock-solid evidence, they may no longer need as many witnesses," the Senate President added.

Gatchalian said the current pace of the trial is largely due to the number of witnesses and pieces of evidence lined up by the prosecution.

"The reason this is taking so long is because of the number of witnesses—there are more than 100. Plus, the pieces of evidence number in the thousands. In other words, we're moving slowly because we hear only one witness a day," he said.

"But if the evidence presented is strong enough, I think they can reduce the number of witnesses," Gatchalian added.

The impeachment trial began on July 6, with sessions initially scheduled from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Proceedings were suspended on July 27 and 28 to give way to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s State of the Nation Address and the Senate minority bloc's KontraSONA activities.

When trial resumed on July 29, the Senate adopted a new schedule, with sessions now running from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Barbers, a former Surigao del Norte representative and governor, said confidential funds demand stronger internal controls because public disclosure of operational details is naturally limited.

"The more discreet the spending is, th.e higher the level of documentation abd accountability that should be maintained. Operations are confidential but accountability cannot be confidential," he said.

Barbers emphasized that while sensitive operational information may be withheld from the public to protect legitimate security interests, government agencies must still be able to account for every peso before constitutionally mandated oversight bodies.

“The more discreet the money, the tighter the audit trail should be. If the full details cannot be disclosed to the public, they should be adequately explained to the institutions mandated by the Constitution to review,” he said.

He also said the impeachment proceedings should examine not only individual actions but also whether existing systems governing confidential funds contain safeguards strong enough to prevent abuse.

“This is not just a matter of one person. This is a matter of whether our system is adequate to ensure that confidential funds are only used for their true purpose,” Barbers pointed out.

The use of aliases, bulk cash withdrawals and confidential transactions makes independent verification more difficult, making reliable documentation even more important, he raises.

“An alias is a protection for the true informant, not a license to evade accountability. When it is difficult to verify expenses, clear records and evidence are even more necessary,” he stressed.

Similarities between questioned public fund transactions and past controversies should be treated as matters that warrant closer examination, not as proof of wrongdoing, he said.

“This is not a verdict and it is certainly not an automatic conclusion. But when there are events that need to be explained, it is our duty to scrutinize every peso of the public's money, he said.

“A subpoena is not a conviction. But the unexplained use of public funds cannot be considered a sufficient answer either,” he added.

center and gustiness of up to 70 kph.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 was raised over Pollilo Islands, Camarines Norte, the northern portion of Camarines Sur (Caramoan, Garchitorena, Lagonoy, Tinambac, Siruma) and the northern portion of

ERC...

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ERC authorized the utility firm to recover about P8.7 billion from consumers over 36 months.

This includes P7.299 billion in generation under-recoveries, equivalent to P0.071 per kWh, and P615.933 million in transmission under-recoveries.

"The ERC is exploring all avenues to provide relief to consumers in these times of prolonged elevated electricity prices brought about by the Middle East conflict," ERC Chairperson Francis Saturnino Juan said.

“The Commission's immediate action on this true-up application of Meralco, including the expedited refund order, is part of that effort. By shortening the refund period and ensuring the true-up mechanism works as intended, we are making sure that any amount collected beyond what is fair is promptly returned to Meralco customers," he added.

Trimmed from 36 months to 6 months

The commission previously in-

Speaker...

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“President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has placed high electricity costs at the center of the national agenda, and Speaker Bojie Dy and I are drawing a fair line: consumers should pay for efficient service, not for theft, negligence or operational failures they did not cause,” Marcos said.

“This should not be the insurance policy in the monthly bill of an ordinary family for the negligence of the (power) utility to stop them,” he added. Under the bill, distribution utilities would be prohibited from recovering disallowed system losses through

Improved...

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had a serve that went 200 kilometers per hour. I’d love that also, but it’s a process. Who knows? I’m not going to put a cap on my serve. Maybe I will one day serve 200. You never know,” she added with a smile.

Eala emphasized that she views her serve as one of several weapons she can rely on.

"I like to look at it as a multi-dimensional thing. I have a variety of weapons in my bag. I think it’s also a good thing that I don’t rely on my serve alone, although I’m standing by the fact that it’s dependable sometimes,” she said.

Eala would have another chance

Senate...

From A1 under scrutiny by the Ombudsman could result in unnecessary duplication, as the anti-graft body is actively pursuing the cases.

"I will listen to the decision of both the majority and minority regarding our direction. Right now, we have a lot on our plate. We have an impeachment trial, and we have many priority bills being fasttracked for the President," he said.

The committee will first finalize its membership, including the appointment of a vice chairman and minority representatives, before convening to decide on its official course of action.

According to Tulfo, previous Blue Ribbon hearings on the flood control controversy had already resulted in legislative reforms, including greater transparency through the

Catanduanes (Pandan, Caramoran, Bagamanoc, Panganiban, Viga) Visayas

“Luis” will continue to move generally northwestward in the next 12 hours before turning east northeastward for the remainder of the forecast period, according to PAGASA. Based on the latest forecast track, the center of “Luis” will remain over the Philippine Sea.

However, a westward shift in the forecast track may result in landfall or close approach to Northern or Central Luzon.

“Luis” is forecast to intensify into a tropical storm in the next 24 hours while moving over the sea east of Cen-

structed Meralco to file applications to align its maximum average price with its AWAT after declaring the utility's original fifth regulatory period, from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2025, as lapsed.

Meralco's applications covered a P4.689-billion refund for the period from Jan. 1 to June 30, 2025, and a P4.321-billion refund for July 1 to Dec. 31, 2025.

While both applications proposed a 36-month implementation period, the ERC ordered that the combined refund be completed within six months.

"Pass-through charges are meant to be revenue-neutral for distribution utilities — these are not sources of profit, but merely costs that Meralco collects on behalf of generation companies, the transmission provider, and government authorities, and simply passes on to consumers,” Juan said.

“Through this confirmation and verification process, the ERC closely scrutinizes every peso that Meralco charges under these components against its actual, allowable costs. This mechanism protects consumers

wheeling, supply, metering, universal charges, subsidies or any other item on consumers' monthly bills.

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) would determine the limited portion of electricity necessarily consumed in the efficient operation of a distribution network that may be recovered as part of the distribution wheeling charge.

Other pass-on prohibitions

The bill would also prohibit utilities from passing on to consumers costs arising from illegal electricity use, power theft, the theft or destruction of electrical lines, equipment and materials, as well as losses caused by defective or inaccurate meters, billing and collection deficiencies, inadequate maintenance, inefficient op-

to test her improved serve during her rematch against Pegula following their semifinal encounter in last year’s Miami Open, where the American prevailed in a hard-fought contest that marked the beginning of the Filipina's rise in the WTA rankings.

A vengeful victory would give Eala her first Tour-level singles title and lift her to a new career-high of No. 20 in the live rankings. She has already surpassed her previous best of No. 25, moving up to No. 24 after her stunning win over Osaka.

But for now, Eala was just elated to reach her first 500-level final after a string of high-profile victories against Olympic winner Zheng Qinwen and seeded players Leylah Fernandez, Elina Svitolina, and Osaka.

live streaming of bicameral budget deliberations.

"If new officials are implicated, then we will investigate. But if they are the same people already being investigated by the Ombudsman, why should we investigate them again? However, if new names surface in connection with the flood control projects, then we will investigate," he said.

On the dispute between Senators Panfilo Lacson and Alan Peter Cayetano over flood control projects in Taguig, Tulfo said the Senate majority preferred to set aside political differences and focus on pending legislation.

"That was raised during the majority caucus. Almost all of us were there. They said it was not really a ceasefire but an opportunity to work together. The majority agreed, saying, 'Why not?' Instead of prolonging the conflict, let's work together so we can get things done," he said.

tral Luzon. It will likely remain a tropical storm for only a short period.

Afterwards, as the tropical depression begins to turn generally east northeastward, a weakening trend is expected.

“Luis” triggered cloudy skies over most of Luzon and the Visayas, while Mindanao may have fair weather although isolated rain showers and thunderstorms remained possible.

Moderate to heavy rains were expected over Isabela, Quirino, Aurora, Quezon, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and Catanduanes over the next 24 hours.

Scattered rains and thunderstorms may also affect Metro Manila, Cagay-

from any unapproved or excessive charges, while ensuring that distribution utilities recover only what they are legitimately entitled to — no more, no less," the ERC chief added. The commission said it verified Meralco's submissions under the rules governing automatic cost adjustments and true-up mechanisms and found that the over- and underrecoveries resulted from operational and methodological factors inherent in the regulatory process.

ERC orders system loss data submitted Separately, the ERC directed all distribution utilities, including Meralco, to submit system loss data for 2021 to 2025 on or before May 31 each year. It cited ongoing congressional deliberations on proposed amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive in his State of the Nation Address to address system losses. In a statement, Meralco said it supports the government's efforts to provide relief to consumers and

erations, negligence and other causes within the utility's control.

Distribution utilities would still be allowed to recover prudent and reasonable costs needed to maintain reliable service and financial viability.

The bill provides that the ERC would implement the reform in phases to protect consumers while avoiding disruptions to electricity service or the financial stability of efficiently managed utilities.

The transition would gradually reduce recoverable costs and must be completed within three years from the effectivity of the implementing rules.

The bill also directs the ERC to establish minimum efficiency stan-

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was asking from the Ombudsman was fairness.

“All I ask for is even justice. But the Ombudsman is using witnesses he himself and now the DOJ have already publicly discredited -- and who are now facing cyberlibel and perjury charges,” Romualdez said.

“Is this impartial investigation?” he added.

“There were witnesses who have been rejected, sued for cyberlibel and perjury, but were still being used just to nail me down,” he lamented.

The Leyte congressman reiterated that he is ready to face the charges the OMB was planning to file against him.

“I won’t back down. I am not shaken. Do the right thing,” he said. .

Former speaker preparing for preliminary investigation

Lawyer Ade Fajardo said the former Speaker's counsels are preparing for the preliminary investigation and Congressman Romualdez will respond to it."

“He is ready to face all these allegations—but through the proper process. That is our position: that there be a level playing field, so to speak, regarding these matters,” the lawyer added.

Fajardo reiterated that contrary to speculations, Romualdez is in the country and doing his job as representative of Leyte’s first district.

“Congressman Romualdez is not fleeing; he has remained in the country. He is attending to his constituents and, of course, fulfilling his legislative duties as the representative of Leyte,” he said.

Fajardo also reiterated his argu-

an Valley, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Albay, Sorsogon, Masbate, Aurora, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Aklan and Antique. The current weather disturbance is forecast to continue affecting the country over the next few days, particularly the eastern sections of Central Luzon and the Bicol Region, where rains and gusty winds may prevail.

PAGASA said “Luis” may be downgraded into a remnant low by Wednesday before becoming fully assimilated into the circulation of typhoon “Dolphin” located outside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR).

would comply with the ERC's directive.

"As such, we will comply with the most recent directive of the ERC to implement the refund of P9.5 billion over a six-month period, equivalent to an average rate of P0.34 per kWh, with residential customers getting a refund of about P0.59 per kWh," the company said.

Meralco noted that it filed the refund applications in 2025 and early 2026 in compliance with the ERC's directive.

It also said it had previously implemented P40.5 billion in refunds covering July 2015 to June 2022 and is currently implementing another P20 billion refund covering July 2022 to December 2024.

The utility said the AWAT true-up mechanism ensures that any excess tariff collected is returned to consumers and is applied uniformly to all private distribution utilities.

"As with previous refunds, the approved adjustment will appear in a separate line item in customers' electricity bills, allowing consumers to clearly see the amount being returned to them," Meralco said.

dards for distribution utilities, including benchmarks for service interruption frequency and collection performance.

“This is not a blanket denial of legitimate costs, and that distinction matters to the President and Speaker Dy. Utilities that operate efficiently may recover prudent expenses, but costs born of controllable losses must remain where responsibility belongs,” Marcos said.

The ERC would be required to issue implementing rules within 90 days after the law's enactment, in consultation with the Department of Energy, distribution utilities, consumer groups and other stakeholders. The law would take effect 15 days after its publication.

ment that no evidence existed against the former House leader as he was not involved in enacting the 2025 national budget—except to sign it—or in implementing flood control projects. He emphasized that this lack of proof is among the findings of the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI).

“The ICI recommendation calls for further investigation because they couldn't find anything—precisely because Congressman Romualdez was neither at the bicameral conference nor part of the so-called "small committee,” Fajardo noted.

“He is not part of the so-called technical working group, which is composed of the head of the House Appropriations Committee and the head of the Senate Finance Committee. He is not there. In fact, in every instance, his only act of participation was signing the document after everyone else had already signed,” he pointed out.

As for the OMB’s plan to use some of the 18 ‘maleta boys’ who are former bodyguards of ex-Ako Bicol Partylist Rep. Zaldy Co, Fajardo recalled in February, when these alleged witnesses surfaced, the OMB described their stories as part of efforts to destabilize the Marcos administration.

Testimonies of former Co aides 'not credible'

He said the testimonies of the former Co aides are not credible.

“Our first reaction to that is what we've been saying for a long time: the stories of these suitcase boys are unbelievable and not credible,” said Fajardo.

“It was only in February when they came out, even the Ombudsman himself at that time said that these words of theirs seemed calculated towards destabilization,” he pointed out.

NMC disputes China claim on drills

By Rex Espiritu

THE National Maritime Council (NMC) on Sunday disputed reports that China conducted joint naval-air drills around Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal or Panatag Shoal, saying Philippine monitoring units found no such activity in the area.

NMC spokesperson Vice Admiral Alexander Lopez told the Manila Standard that monitoring by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed the daily presence of China Coast Guard (CCG), Chinese maritime militia, and People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels near the disputed area.

However, Lopez said there was no

verified report of actual Chinese navalair combat drills around the shoal.

“As to the actual conduct of naval-air combat drills, there were no such activities,” Lopez said, describing the report as possible propaganda intended to reinforce China’s maritime claims and justify its activities around Bajo de Masinloc.

China’s People’s Liberation Army Southern Theater Command and state

media reported that joint naval and air combat patrols were conducted around the disputed shoal on Aug. 1. Lopez said the report was not considered credible based on the information currently available from Philippine operational units.

He said Philippine authorities would continue monitoring the situation around Bajo de Masinloc, while any diplomatic action would be based on verified reports from the AFP, PCG, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.

Lopez also maintained that even if China conducts naval or air patrols around the shoal, such activities would not alter its legal status under international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award.

“It is important to note that military drills cannot create sovereignty or maritime rights under international law,”

Lopez said. He added that any military drills conducted in the area would be considered illegal by the Philippines and could pose security and safety risks to civilian shipping, air traffic, and fishing activities. China claims sovereignty over Bajo de Masinloc, which it calls Huangyan Dao.

The Chinese military described the reported drills as a necessary response to actions by “certain countries” that it said were undermining regional peace and stability. Meanwhile, the AFP said it is monitoring reports of a PLAN vessel and an unmanned surface vessel allegedly operating within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

AFP spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said the military is closely tracking the reported presence of the foreign vessels in coordination with other maritime agencies.

Filipino housekeeping services gain support in Japan market

By Kyodo News

HOUSEKEEPING services employing Filipino staff have gained popularity amid growing demand in Japan for domestic support, with one provider seeing its workforce nearly double over the past decade.

Since the Japanese government began allowing foreign nationals to provide housekeeping services in national strategic special zones in 2016, Filipino workers have become a preferred choice

because of their cheerful personalities, diligence, and expertise.

In February, a Filipino housekeeper carefully listened to a client’s instructions during her on-site debut about a month after arriving in Japan. She took detailed notes as the client explained, in a mix of English and Japanese, how to use cleaning tools and the proper order of detergents.

“(Filipinos) are friendly and easy to talk to, and they work seriously, so I can feel at ease,” the client said.

Cayetano says Lacson ‘will drown in truth’ over flood probe

By Ram Superable

SENATOR Alan Peter Cayetano on Sunday defended his track record on flood control projects in Taguig while describing the continued criticism from Senator Panfilo Lacson as an attempt to distract from key national issues. During another livestream, the former Senate President said the allegations against him were intended to divert attention from major legislative investigations and the ongoing impeachment trial.

“Sen. Lacson, you won’t drown in floods in Taguig—you’ll drown in truth. When you keep telling lies, it is the truth that ends up drowning you,” Cayetano said in response to Lacson’s latest statement. Lacson on Sunday declined Cayetano’s

invitation to inspect Taguig’s flood control projects together.

Cayetano made the invitation after the two disagreed over allegations of ghost flood control projects in Taguig.

“Maybe next time, when the flood control program in Taguig is fixed. It’s been a while since I practiced swimming; I might drown in floodwater. Lol,” Lacson said in a social media post.

Cayetano countered the criticism by saying Taguig has significantly improved from the chest-deep flooding that lasted for months 30 to 40 years ago, with only localized flash floods occurring under normal conditions today.

He added that, although he is not an engineer and does not head the public works department, he has invited critics to inspect the project sites so they can compare the budget allocations with the completed infrastructure.

Before 2015, only certain households, such as those of foreign diplomats, were allowed to employ foreign housekeepers. A legal revision that year, aimed at increasing women’s participation in the workforce and addressing labor shortages in the housekeeping industry, opened the door for foreign workers in designated areas.

Following the change, Tokyo-based Pinay International Co. launched a business focused on employing Filipino housekeepers. It now operates in parts

of Tokyo, neighboring Kanagawa Prefecture, Osaka Prefecture, and Hyogo Prefecture, with more than 200 Filipino employees.

The company recruits workers in the Philippines and provides extensive training before and after they arrive in Japan, while also assisting them with housing and other aspects of daily life.

“Foreign talent playing an active role will likely lead to revitalizing Japan,” said Pinay International CEO Tetsuya Moteki, 55.

IN BRIEF

Asuncion, Kapalong mark 78th anniversaries

THE municipalities of Asuncion and Kapalong in Davao del Norte marked their 78th founding anniversaries on Saturday, highlighting their accomplishments and development projects.

Asuncion Mayor Charry Dayaday announced that the Davao del Norte State College, which now has more than 100 enrollees, will soon have its own campus. A site has already been identified for the new school building, while classes are temporarily being held beside the municipal gym.

Dayaday also unveiled the architectural design of the proposed Asuncion Food Park, which will rise across the school and beside the gym. The town also honored outstanding taxpayers, business permit-compliant establishments, and performing barangays. Cherrie Anne Villahermosa

DOLE reminds workers to protect child performers

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has reminded parents, guardians, and employers to ensure the protection of children below 15 years old participating in entertainment and information activities, including film, theater, radio, television, and other media.

Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino issued Labor Advisory No. 12, Series of 2026, to safeguard the welfare, safety, and rights of child participants in accordance with existing laws and regulations. Under Republic Act No. 9231, children below 15 may only work under the direct responsibility of their parents or legal guardians in family-owned activities, or when their participation in public entertainment or information is essential.

The advisory, dated July 21, requires employers to secure a work permit from the DOLE before engaging the services of a child.

PNP seizes P22m drugs, arrests suspect in 24 hrs

ANTI-DRUG operations conducted over 24 hours during the weekend resulted in the seizure of about P22 million worth of illegal drugs and the arrest of a high-value drug suspect, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said. The biggest operation was conducted in the villages of Loccong and Buscalan in Tinglayan, Kalinga, where authorities discovered, uprooted, and destroyed about 94,500 fully grown marijuana plants valued at P18.9 million. Although no cultivators were arrested, the PNP said the operation prevented the illegal crops from reaching the market and disrupted marijuana production in the area.

In a separate buy-bust operation in Ditsaan Ramain, Lanao del Sur, police arrested a high-value suspect and confiscated about 466 grams of suspected shabu worth P3.1 million. Vince Lopez

By Gabriel Oliva

THE Department of Education (DepEd) has promoted 82,000 teachers “in a very short span of time,” according to Education Secretary Sonny Angara.

In a radio interview, DepEd Undersecretary for Human Resource and Organizational Development Wilfredo Cabral said it is the first time an administration has promoted that many teachers. “That includes teachers from the elementary, junior high school, and senior high school levels,” Cabral told DZRH.

He clarified that the promotions do not cover non-teaching personnel, who, under Republic Act No. 9155 or the Govern-

ance of Basic Education Act of 2001, are responsible for schools’ administrative, fiscal, and auxiliary services. Meanwhile, DepEd Undersecretary for Finance Edson Byron K. Sy said the department has sufficient funds to support current and future promotions.

“We have a P6-billion budget, although we are discussing with President Marcos the possibility of increasing it,” Sy said. Angara also said DepEd has reduced teachers’ administrative workload by 57 percent by cutting reports, paperwork, and other non-teaching duties to give teachers more time for classroom instruction.

“The ultimate goal of all these reforms is to focus on teaching time and restore time for teaching. Teaching time is sacred,” Angara said. He added that the department is hiring Administrative Officers and Project Development Officers, along with teachers, to handle tasks not directly related to classroom instruction, including the implementation of the 4Ps program, school feeding initiatives, and student vaccination activities. Some teachers, however, questioned the reported reduction in workload on social media, with several saying they have yet to experience any decrease in administrative responsibilities.

SEA RESCUE. Philippine Air Force personnel and Army Reserve Command (ARCEN) reservists rescue teachers after their boat sinks off Sacol Island in Zamboanga City, bringing all of them safely to shore

FIRST SUNDAY MASS. Catholic devotees brave light rain as they attend mass and offer prayers of thanksgiving at the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno in Quiapo, Manila, on the first Sunday of August. Norman Cruz

RUBY TOWER REMEMBRANCE. Relatives of the victims offer prayers during the anniversary commemoration of the Ruby Tower collapse at Ruby Tower Hall in Sta. Cruz, Manila, honoring those who perished in one of the country’s deadliest earthquake disasters. Richmond Chi

LTFRB to meet mass transport operators on fare hike pleas

IN BRIEF

OPERATIVES of the Southern Police District’s (SPD) intelligence and antidrug units have arrested two suspected drug dealers and seized some P680,000 worth of shabu in a buy-bust operation over the weekend in barangay Central Bicutan, Taguig City

National Capital Region Police Office chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin, said their campaign against illegal drugs remains anchored on aggressively dismantling criminal networks that endanger communities across Metro Manila.

“Our operations are designed not only to arrest offenders but to dismantle the networks that threaten the safety of our communities. We will remain relentless in pursuing high-value drug personalities and enforcing the law with consistency, precision, and professionalism,” Aberin said. Vince Lopez

Village chief in fatal shooting surrenders

THE Central Luzon police on Sunday reported the voluntary surrender of a local barangay chief involved in a shooting incident on Saturday in Barangay Poblacion, Santa Maria town, Bulacan, that left a former barangay official dead.

Police said the victim, identified only as alias Gelo, a former barangay secretary and teacher, was able to identify the attacker prior to his death. Investigators are currently preparing a murder complaint against the suspect to be filed before the office of the provincial prosecutor in Malolos City.

“This development reflects the commitment of our police personnel to conduct swift, impartial, and evidence-based investigations. We remain resolute in ensuring that justice is served while upholding the rule of law and respecting the rights of all parties involved. Guided by our commitment to ‘Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, and Nararadman,’ PRO3 will continue working tirelessly to protect our communities and strengthen public trust in the Philippine National Police,” Central Luzon police chief Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez said. Vince Lopez

Malay police beefs up force with new bikes

THE police force in Malay, Aklan significantly reinforced its patrol and peacekeeping capability with 160 new motorcycles donated by a leading cigarette company. The new bikes donated by Philip Morris Fortune Tobacco Corporation (PMFTC) were blessed and formally turned over to the Malay police in Brgy. Manocmanoc in Boracay Island last July 30. The ceremony was attended by Maj. Gen Martin Defensor Jr., Philippine National Police director for logistics and Western Visayas Police chief Brig. Gen Randulf Tuaño, and Aklan police director Col. Arnel Ramos, another other personalities. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. thanked the PMFTC as he underscored the

By Rio N. Araja

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will meet with leaders of at least seven major transport groups Monday to discuss and thresh out the pending fare hike petitions by public utility vehicles (PUVs).

LTFRB chief Vigor Mendoza II said the hearing is in compliance with the instruction of the Department of Transportation to review and recompute the requested fare increase based on the petitions filed by various transport groups.

“The goal has always been to come up with the best measures that are acceptable not only to the PUV community but also to all the concerned sectors, particularly the commuters because of the continuous challenge that we face as a result of the situation in the Middle East,” he said.

“This is also proof of the sensitivity of the national government to the concerns of those in the PUV sector which

we deem as valid and logical,” he added.

The hearing cover will cover almost all modes of public land transportation operating in the country.

The public utility jeepneys are represented by PISTON and Manibela, while the UV Express will be represented by the Metro Comet Transport Service Cooperative (MCTSC), 997 Sandigan Transport Cooperative, and UV Express National Alliance of the Philippines.

The MCTSC will also represent the air-conditioned taxi, along with the Light of Glory Transport Service Inc.

On the other hand, the motorcycle taxi sector will be represented by United

Transportation Coalition of the Philippines.

According to Mendoza, invitations for the hearing have been sent to the concerned transport groups.

The same invitation was also extended to other transport groups, government agencies and other stakeholders.

All the cited transport groups have pending fare hike petitions before the LTFRB filed between March and July.

“The purpose of the hearing is to receive evidence, comments, and the respective positions of all interested parties regarding the pending petition,” Mendoza said.

All comments and objections to the fare adjustments will be entertained as due process and hearing protocol.

Mendoza urged those who wish to do so to submit written position papers and supporting documents in accordance with the rules of the Board.

“We in the LTFRB assure that we will always pursue the path of fairness and impartiality to come up with the best solution that is acceptable to all parties concerned,” he said.

By Vince Lopez

PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP)

chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Sunday ordered intensified police operations against individuals and groups allegedly exploiting government programs to defraud the public through fake Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) and Socio-Civic Projects Fund transactions.

The LGSF is provided to local government units for development projects and community programs.

Nartatez directed its field units to step up surveillance and investigation following a warning issued by the Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) regarding fraudulent schemes involving the release of government funds.

“Every single centavo from the public coffers must be protected and the PNP has been doing its share in this aspect through its active involvement in holding accountable those involved in illegal activities,” said Nartatez. He said surveillance against individuals and groups misrepresenting themselves to deceive the public about government projects were already intensified through the available information.

The OES earlier warned the public against individuals and groups falsely claiming they could facilitate the release of funds under the Local Government Support Fund and the Socio-Civic Projects Fund in exchange for money. Nartatez said the PNP will thoroughly investigate the reported activities, assuring the public that police units will identify those behind the scheme and file appropriate criminal charges against them.

“We appeal to the public to be discerning and vigilant and immediately report to the authorities if they find anything suspicious so our cops can respond swiftly. There is the hotline to file your complaints,” the PNP chief said.

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Sunday reported the arrest of a purported village medicine man in Barangay Pasong Kawayan I, General Trias City, Cavite for alleged possession of three unlicensed firearms.

Operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Cavite Provincial Field Unit served the search warrant, resulting in the confiscation of three loose firearms consisting of one caliber .45 pistol, one caliber .357 revolver, and one caliber .22 revolver, along with assorted magazines and ammunition. Further investigation revealed that the suspect also operates as a faith healer who sells alleged amulets which he claimed could protect buyers from bullets. Authorities also gathered information that he allegedly demonstrated the supposed power of the amulets by publicly

firing firearms which is prohibited by law.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. underscored PNP’s unwavering commitment to enforcing firearm laws and protecting communities from the dangers posed by loose firearms.

“The unlawful possession of firearms undermines peace and public safety. We will relentlessly pursue individuals who choose to violate our laws and put communities at risk,” Nartatez said.

The operation reflected the PNP Focused Agenda, a strategic framework for organizational transformation that advances responsive and effective policing.

Among its key priorities is Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which drives sustained intelligence-based law enforcement efforts against illegal firearms and other threats to public safety.

Vince Lopez

By Rio Araja

THE Quezon City government has become the first local government unit in the National Capital Region to pass a comprehensive Cooperative Code, institutionalizing long-term support for cooperatives and recognizing them as key drivers of inclusive economic growth, community empowerment and poverty reduction.

Ordinance No. SP-3526 of 2026 or the Quezon City Cooperative Code establishes a unified policy framework for cooperative development in the city, strengthening local programs and regulations in line with Republic Act No. 9520 or the Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008.

Mayor Joy Belmonte cited the vital role cooperatives play in building stronger and more resilient communities.

“The heart of every cooperative is the spirit of bayanihan, highlighting the values that unite different sectors and communities. This reflects Quezon City’s commitment to Kasama Ka sa Pag-unlad, ensuring that every sector shares in the city’s growth and development,” she pointed out.

Building on the Quezon City Cooperative Development Plan 2025–2028 and supporting the Cooperative Development Authority’s call for stronger local government participation, the ordinance transforms existing initiatives into permanent city policy while expanding assistance available to cooperatives.

The Code provides a comprehensive package of support covering every stage of a cooperative’s development from organization and registration to capacity building, financing, market expansion, environmental sustainability and institutional strengthening.

OPINION A5

Mishmash

OUR regular Thursday Group lunch, yes, the one where Ping Lacson exposed the Sotto-Dy tete-a-tete at Solaire Casino Hotel months ago regarding a planned Con-Ass had one verdict on the penultimate SONA: it was a mishmash of mini-achievements and promises so hard to fulfill with so narrow a fiscal space within the remaining 698 days of the Marcos Junior administration.

Oh well, there’s “utang pa more”, even if our debt as of June 30 is already P19.065 trillion, more than half a trillion higher than May’s P18.55 trillion. The debt to GDP ratio is now 66.5 percent, higher than the International Monetary Fund’s 60-percent threshold for countries like ours. I wonder how much it will balloon by December this year.

Likely P19.5 trillion, and P22 trillion to P23 trillion by June 30, 2028 when PBbM bows down, or will he?

Mini-achievements and promises so hard to fulfill with so narrow a fiscal space within the remaining 698 days

In Tagalog, the SONA was just a “halo-halo.” In more colorful Bisaya, it was a case of “saksak sinagol.” “Chopsuey” in NCR patois.

I recall Burt Bacharach’s “Promises, promises” sung by Dionne Warwick. My grandson said the same title comes from a song by Incubus.

Our Wednesday lunch group echoed the same observations and asked why the President had to mention Alex Eala’s triumph in various tennis tournaments when government never really helped fund her training or her expenses.

Everyone in both “eating groups”, as Thursday member Lacson described us, wondered how Pax Silica can materialize, if ever, within the next 698 days, with our power and water infrastructure delimitations, and more.

Everyone laughed at the rocket launch in Cagayan, and took gleeful note of what Cavite’s Kiko Barzaga said in a meme: “Support ako sa Rocket at Space Program ng Crocodile Farm; mga Alien na lang nakawan niyo, ‘wag kami”.

On Wednesday, a member disclosed that one of National Bureau of investigation’s prime witnesses for the prosecution in Inday Sara’s impeachment trial, Atty. Jeremy Lotoc, who Melvin Matibag’s predecessor assigned to BARMM, was very recently transferred to his home region, the political kingdom of the

Romualdezes.

So quick a reward after his testimony shot full of holes and inconsistencies.

But as the impeachment trial also coincides with the early beginning of the political season, the reputable research firms have begun looking at the senatorial slates for 2028. Both Pulse Asia and WR Numero have come out with findings on field research done two weeks apart.

I chided one of our “eating group” members who is sympathetic with the administration, and who disclosed that some cabinet members have moist eyes for the Senate in 2028, thus: “Nagpaplano na kayo ng Senate run, e wala pa kayong presidential candidate?”

In any case, look at the prospective administration ticket, whose surnames begin with A and end in Z: Benhur Abalos of Mandaluyong, the newly minted cabinet secretary, is one.

Francis Zamora, the energetic mayor of San Juan who is likewise president of the City Mayors League, and who no less than the First Lady endorsed for the Senate in one of her rice distribution sorties, is the Z.

In between A to Z, there will be Conrad Estrella, the agrarian reform secretary whom the President made special mention of, singularly at that, in last Monday’s SONA.

Of course, Francis Tolentino, now labor secretary, whose “historic” wage hike a Pasig court stopped via a TRO, will try once more to reclaim his seat in the once-upon-a-time “august” chamber.

Surprise, surprise! Agriculture’s

Francis (tatlong Francis na sila?)

“Kiko” Tiu Laurel is also eyeing a run for the Senate in ’28. Ah, but he sports a recognizable political brand, “Laurel”, although it is an adopted surname.

Wonder what his uncle Herman Tiu Laurel will say. Someone said Koko Pimentel will try a “balik-bayan” run, and maybe Gibo Teodoro, our defense secretary.

Of course Raffy Tulfo, unless he goes for the big time in 2028 which is politically risky. His numbers in both Pulse and WR Numero are quite high, a re-election shoo-in.

Not to forget JV Ejercito, the new Finance Committee chair of the Senate. His half-brother Jinggoy, in the winning circle despite being in jail, will likely run in the “other” slate.

Not to forget General Nicolas Torre III of the “kidnap” caper against fPRRD? Larry Gadon perhaps?

And of course, Claire Castro, the indefatigably cantankerous “ICC” of Senadora Imee Marcos? She should have at least 70-percent awareness level by now.

But what if a BbM-pinklawan-Left “dream” coalition materializes with a common presidential candidate? Then the “dream” slate will have to give way to Chel Diokno and Leila de Lima, Terry Ridon and Neri Colmenares, perhaps even Ronald Llamas and Lorna Kapunan.

Ah, but that’s another story.

Baltics transform from Soviet stagnation to startup hubs

By Katarzyna Skiba

VILNIUS, LITHUANIA—Stepping into the newly renovated Vilnius airport, visitors are greeted with a slew of billboards advertising products “Made in Lithuania,” including cybersecurity giant NordVPN.

Rather than focusing on heritage or artisanal craftsmanship promoted in similar campaigns in Italy or France, Lithuania and its Baltic neighbours Estonia and Latvia are highlighting they are home to innovation.

The three countries have a growing number of startups recognised worldwide, such as online reselling platform Vinted, rideshare service Bolt and videotelephony pioneer Skype. Despite a total population of just over six million people, the Baltic states possessed around 33,000 startups last year, according to data from Lursoft IT, a Latvian company specialising in business and financial databases.

They raised 20 percent more in funding in 2025 at 607 million euros ($700 million), according to Practica Capital and Firstpick’s annual report on the sector.

The Baltic states now have 17 “unicorns” -- startups with a valuation above $1.0 billion.

Entrepreneurial spirit

Fewer than four decades ago Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania regained their independence but inherited inefficient factories from the Soviet Union’s command economy.

“Regaining independence... unlocked the entrepreneurial spirit previously suppressed under Soviet rule,” said Latvian-American entrepreneur Girts Graudins, who noted that the region has a history as a science and manufacturing hub going back to the turn of the 20th century.

The ruins of the Soviet command economy were also a crucible for innovation, said Kadri Ukrainski, who lectures on the subject at Estonia’s Tartu University.

“Coming from (the) Soviet times, we didn’t have very good telephone systems,” she said, leading to the creation of Skype -- Estonia’s first, and arguably its most famous, unicorn.

The app helped the once-behind country leap forward, she argued, “helping us to solve this very backward communication system.”

Founded in 2003 by a couple of Scandinavian entrepreneurs along with four Estonian developers, Skype had 50 million registered users worldwide by 2005, when it was sold to online auction site eBay for approximately $2.6 billion.

FEATURE

The Batanes provocation

WE RALLY behind the call of Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. for strict vigilance over China-linked academic and language exchanges.

This puts into sharp focus or spotlight Guangzhou’s Jinan University after its scholars claimed the Philippines’ northernmost province Batanes belongs to China.

The controversy erupted after an investigation by the maritime transparency group SeaLight, which revealed that Jinan University serves as a training ground for Chinese language teachers deployed inside the Philippines.

This academic pipeline drew strong scrutiny after academics from that same institution asserted during a symposium that Batanes is an extension of Taiwan and legally subject to Beijing’s hands, which Manila immediately contested.

Secretary Teodoro is right on track in his warning that soft-power tools like language instruction risk

Filipinos have expressed outrage, viewing these academic maneuvers as a subtle form of cognitive intrusion and infiltration.

manipulation as vehicles for statesponsored disinformation and psychological conditioning. Manila cannot be wrong, in any legal language and department, in viewing these revisionist academic assertions not as harmless fringe

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call

to remove the system-loss charge from electricity bills drew approval during his fifth State of the Nation Address. Understandably so. For families facing high living costs, paying for electricity that never reaches their homes appears fundamentally unfair.

But electricity reform must be judged by what consumers ultimately pay, not by whether one unpopular line disappears from the bill.

System loss is the difference between electricity entering a power network and the amount delivered and recorded at customers’ meters. Technical loss occurs as energy moves through lines, transformers, and other equipment; no grid can eliminate it entirely. Nontechnical loss arises from theft, illegal connections and meter tampering.

That distinction must guide the reform.

Legislators have proposed not to subsidize inefficiency or criminal activity and that distribution utilities (DUs) and electric cooperatives (ECs) must answer for losses they can prevent. Yet pretending that the unavoidable cost of delivering electricity can be legislated away risks creating more consequences.

Under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act, the Energy Regulatory Commission sets caps on system losses that utilities may recover from consumers. The caps reflect technical and operational conditions while encouraging efficiency. Losses beyond the allowable level are borne by the DUs and ECs.

The issue is how government should treat the efficient, verified, and unavoidable portion. In many regulated electricity markets, network losses are recovered through approved tariffs, loss factors, or wholesale-market settlement rather than presented as a distinct retailbill charge. Consumers still bear the regulatory compliant technical-loss costs, although recovery and billing methods vary. The Philippines’ unbundled billing

—“— STEM students here rank higher than those from France, Sweden, the United States and Norway in the OECD’s latest Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).

European Union accession in 2004 also brought the Baltic states access to European markets.

Estonia, with a population of 1.3 million, now has 10 active unicorns -- the most per capita in Europe.

system at least makes this cost visible. Removing the separate charge does not remove the reality of the underlying cost. It may be embedded in another tariff, covered by taxpayers through a subsidy, or borne by the utility. If utilities must absorb even prudent and unavoidable losses, funds for line rehabilitation, smart meters, and grid digitalization would instead cover those losses. With tariff adjustments subject to lengthy ERC review, utilities—especially electric cooperatives—could face severe operating burdens, reduced reinvestment capacity, and slower, if not stalled, modernization when the grid needs more capital, not less. This does not mean preserving the present system without change. It means demanding a better regulatory bargain.

The measure of success is not an erased line item.

Ahead of the next Senate Committee on Energy hearing, the ERC has issued an advisory directing distribution utilities and electric cooperatives to disclose their technical and non-technical systemloss data covering the period 2021-2025. Findings on poor performers should undergo time-bound reduction programs with annual targets. Recovery should be limited to independently verified and prudent costs, with incentives for sustained efficiency gains and penalties when excessive losses result from weak management or delayed investment. Grid modernization must be part of this bargain. Advanced meters, automated monitoring, better transformers, reconductored lines, and stronger enforcement against electricity theft can

Startup ‘multiplier effect’

Although Skype is now defunct— retired last year by Microsoft which bought the app in 2011, its legacy as the first Baltic unicorn can still be felt across the region.

Known as the “Skype mafia” effect, founders and early employees took the experience they gained from the company and went on to start their own companies, inspiring others to do the same.

Lithuania’s first unicorn, secondhand clothing platform Vinted, has had a similar impact.

“Vinted’s journey has certainly been intertwined with the broader development of Lithuania’s startup ecosystem,” said the company’s vice president for corporate affairs, Jessie de la Merced, arguing that its presence has had a “multiplier effect”. Vinted, which became a unicorn in 2019, reached $8 billion in market

theories.

Fact is, which may be diplomatically shielded, these assertions form a tactical validation of Beijing’s broader ambition to project power past the first island chain and into the vast Pacific.

Teodoro is spot on in clarifying that the defense establishment does not seek an outright ban on cultural diplomacy, but rather demands rigorous vetting to prevent educational networks from harboring ulterior motives.

Understandably, the ordinary Juan and Juana and their cousin Luzviminda have reacted with intense fury and indignation to the notion that their northernmost frontier could be casually redesignated in foreign lecture halls. We join the public sentiment which treats the Batanes claim as an affront to Philippine national honor and dignity.

This Batanes claim reflects a deep-seated exhaustion with Beijing’s unrelenting maritime and territorial posturing.

reduce losses. Under the rate reset process, utilities must demonstrate to the ERC that new investments will produce lower losses, fewer interruptions, and better service. Malacañang has recognized the need to balance consumer relief with the viability of the power industry, assuring that reforms do not compromise reliability or discourage the investment needed to strengthen the power system. Congress should also keep the issue in perspective. Generation costs—not system loss—account for the largest share of the electricity bill. Dependence on imported coal and liquefied natural gas exposes consumers to global fuel prices and exchange-rate movements beyond the control of distribution utilities. Reducing electricity prices requires a stronger and more competitive domestic supply base. We need investments in indigenous and renewable energy, storage, transmission, and new generation capacity. This requires predictable regulation that gives investors confidence to commit longterm capital while protecting consumers from unreasonable costs. The government should examine the VAT imposed on electricity. Unlike technical system loss, VAT is a policyimposed cost. Any reduction must be assessed against its fiscal impact, but it could provide direct and transparent relief across consumer classes. Consumers have every right to demand lower electricity bills. They also deserve an honest explanation of what each charge represents and which costs can genuinely be reduced. The objective should be a viable energy security strategy that strengthens economic resilience. Real reform means making utilities account for avoidable losses, protecting only prudent and unavoidable costs, and investing aggressively to improve efficiency. The measure of success is not an erased line item. It is a lower total bill, more reliable service, and a power system capable of supporting the country’s development.

valuation in April, and Lithuania now boasts a total of six unicorns. Unicorns’ effects can also be felt across the local economy, said Karolina Urbonaite, the head of Startup Lithuania, a government institution which supports the country’s startup ecosystem.

“Our startups pay a lot of taxes. They create new jobs,” she said, adding that Lithuanian startups employed over 20,000 people in total, paying high salaries and attracting foreign investment to the country.

A heavy focus on STEM education (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics) in the Baltics is also helping forge the next generation of fintech entrepreneurs.

Baltic STEM students rank higher than those from France, Sweden, the United States and Norway in the OECD’s latest Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). AFP

In

Trump shifts course on Iran anew

WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump said Saturday that the United States and Israel had agreed to hold off on new strikes on Iran -- provided that a deal to end the months-long conflict is reached rapidly.

Fears had been mounting that the fighting could escalate once again after Trump threatened to hit Iran “very hard” and was reportedly considering renewed heavy attacks, including against energy infrastructure.

But the US leader appeared to a have changed course after speaking with Saudi Arabia’s crown prince and after Tehran also spoke to Riyadh, and to mediators Pakistan and Turkey.

S. Korea hits temperature high of 42.5C

SEOUL—South Korea registered its highest temperature since records began more than a century ago on Sunday, as authorities warned people to “immediately” stop all outdoor activities in affected areas.

The southeastern city of Yangsan saw the temperature reach 42.5C at 1:26 pm (0426 GMT), the Korea Meteorological Administration said on its website.

Yangsan has been the epicentre of the ongoing heatwave, where temperatures exceeded 40C for a fifth consecutive day on Sunday, while many other cities including Daegu and Busan are seeing temperatures climb into the high 30s.

People flocked to air-conditioned shopping malls or cafes to escape the blistering temperatures, an AFP reporter saw.

Ju Dong-yeol, 27, took refuge from the heat in a Starbucks in Seoul along with his parents and told AFP “it is too hot to be outside doing anything”.

“I can’t think of anything else to do other than stay in air-conditioned places like home, shopping malls and cafes,” the office worker said.

More than 20 localities were under emergency heatwave alerts on Sunday -- a new warning category introduced this year to better address rising temperatures. AFP

Trump insisted the US was still “locked and loaded and ready to go against the Islamic Republic of Iran,” but added that Tehran and other Middle Eastern countries had asked him to hold off on fresh strikes.

“Based on this request, I have agreed, for the future benefit of the WORLD and, likewise, the survival of a successful and prosperous Iran, to cancel the attack, subject to being able to rapidly make a DEAL,” Trump posted on his

Truth Social platform.

Iran’s state news agency said the Saudi and Iranian foreign ministers held a call and the state-run broadcaster sad Tehran also spoke with Pakistan and Turkey, which have acted as mediators in the talks, about “the risk of escalating tensions and insecurity in the region”.

Saudi Arabia’s official SPA press agency said Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman had a call with Trump where he “emphasised the necessity of prioritising dialogue to reduce tensions and the importance of exerting all possible efforts to achieve a truce that paves the way for diplomatic solutions”.

The US president said the deal would

have to include the “Immediate, Complete and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Iran’s nuclear threat.”

“The Country of Israel joins me in this commitment.”

After more than five months of war, which began on February 28 when the United States and Israel launched strikes on Tehran, there is seemingly no end to the conflict in sight.

A previous ceasefire deal with similar terms, including the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, fell through, and Iran has since tightened its control over the vital waterway as the two countries resumed attacks against each other in recent weeks. AFP

SHOWER FRESH. This picture taken on July 31 shows people playing in a fountain to cool off in Yangsan. South Korea registered on July 31 its highest temperature since records began more than a century ago, as the southeastern city of Yangsan saw the mercury reach 42.5C at 1:26 pm (0426 GMT), the Korea Meteorological Administration said on its website. AFP

IN BRIEF

13 dead after tourist plane crashes in Peru NAZCA, Peru—A small plane carrying foreign tourists to view Peru’s famed Nazca Lines archaeological site crashed Saturday, killing all 13 people on board, police said.

Seven Italians, two Germans and two Spaniards were killed, along with two crew members, a spokesman for the transport ministry said. The incident occurred shortly after 1:00 pm (1800 GMT) after the Cessna 208 Caravan took off from the airport in Pisco, located about 240 kilometers (150 miles) south of the capital Lima.

“We have information that 11 passengers and two crew members have died,” Police Major Jorge Andrade told reporters at the crash site.

“Given the severity of the accident, there are no survivors. We have recovered four bodies so far,” Andrade said, without identifying the victims.

He also did not give any immediate indication of what may have caused the crash. AFP

Brazil’s Lula launches fourth bid for president SAO PAULO—At 80, President Lula on Sunday launches his bid for re-election, casting himself as a defender of Brazil’s “sovereignty” as pressure from Donald Trump’s administration casts a shadow over the campaign.

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, a leftist titan of Latin American politics who is loved and despised in nearequal measure in Brazil, will launch his seventh bid for the presidency at a convention of his Worker’s Party (PT) in Sao Paulo.

The former metalworker and unionist made a dramatic comeback when he returned to power three years ago after a stint in jail on corruption charges that were later dismissed, and two previous terms from 2003-2010. He is seeking a fourth term in office in a race that carries a strong sense of deja vu in the polarized nation where the past two elections pitted a PT candidate against farright firebrand Jair Bolsonaro. AFP

China flash flood death toll rises to 25; 23 hurt

BEIJING—The toll from a flash flood in northwest China has risen to 25 dead, with 23 injured, state media reported Sunday a week after the disaster.

The flood ripped through the Shuangshimen Scenic Area, a tourist spot popular with day campers, on July 26, with state media initially reporting 10 deaths and 23 injured.

The updated toll came as the country’s national commission for disaster prevention said it would oversee an investigation into the event, Xinhua said.

Shuangshimen -- in mountainous southern Gansu -- is known for its natural stone arches, alpine meadows and mountain streams. AFP

Week of wildfires devastates 12,000 hectares of forest across Greece

PORTO GERMENO, Greece—Greece on Sunday faced multiple fronts and a growing damage toll after a week of wildfires devastated over 12,000 hectares of forest and agricultural land, experts said.

The National Observatory’s climate tracker meteo.gr said early estimates indicated that over 6,500 hectares

(16,000 acres) had been burned in separate fires on the Gulf of Corinth which also swept through the popular coastal village of Porto Germeno near Athens.

Porto Germeno and other villages were evacuated when the fire broke out on Friday but local authorities say scores of homes were damaged or destroyed.

Havana, west Cuba in darkness as grid fails

HAVANA—Havana and other parts of western Cuba were plunged into darkness Saturday due to the country’s latest power grid failure, the staterun electric company announced.

Five of 15 provinces had no power due to a “partial collapse” of the electricity grid at 6:07 pm (2207 GMT), Cuba’s UNE said on X.

Cuba is reeling from its worst economic crisis in decades -- one made worse by the fuel blockade imposed by US President Donald Trump in January as part of a pressure campaign aimed at ending six decades of communist rule.

UNE says the fuel shortages have made the national grid more susceptible to outages and made the use of emergency generators -- which typically run on diesel fuel -- all but impossible. In recent weeks, some of the blackouts have

lasted more than 30 hours in Havana, and for several days in other parts of the island nation, which has a population of 9.4 million people.

Since the start of 2026, Cuba has experienced five nationwide blackouts, three of them in July within a period of 10 days. Since late 2024, there have been 10 such total power outages.

Cubans are not shy about admitting that they are increasingly weary of the constant disruptions to daily life.

“We live practically like fireflies here -- in the dark all the time. You never know when you’ll have power; it’s our sad reality,” Julian Gonzalez, a 72-year-old carpenter, told AFP.

Like many Havana residents who live near the

Earlier this week, fires on the islands of Crete and Paros affected another 6,000 hectares according to meteo. But Theodore Giannaros, a wildfire meteorologist and senior researcher at the National Observatory, said the fires around Porto Germeno appear to have affected an area of over 10,000 hectares -- almost double the original estimate.

“Unfortunately, it is highly likely (if not almost certain) that this particular wildfire will be classified as a megafire,” Giannaros wrote on Facebook. Firefighters have faced dozens of fires daily and Greece’s Civil Protection Minister Evangelos Tournas on Saturday said the fire department had been “pushed to its limits”. AFP

LUNAR LIGHT. An airliner is silhouetted against the waning gibbous moon above Buenos Aires on August 1. AFP

SPORTS

Noh leads by 3 at women’s British Open as Ryu falters

LYTHAM ST ANNES, United King-

dom—Yealimi Noh takes a three-shot lead into Sunday’s final round of the women’s British Open after a third round 69 fired the American to seven under par.

Ryu Hae-ran’s bid for a third consecutive major faltered after a bright start, but she is among a chasing pack of five at four under.

Noh’s bid for a first major appeared to be stumbling at Royal Lytham and St Annes when she bogeyed three of her opening seven holes.

But the 25-year-old bounced back as others struggled on the back nine, with four birdies at the 9th, 10th, 11th and 16th to move into a commanding position.

“It was a little bit of a rocky start, but my putting was solid and my shots too,” said Noh.

“I just settled into a better routine and focused on my tempo on the back nine.

“It’s just another round of golf out there tomorrow and I’m going to enjoy it. I’m just happy to be in this position and ready to go again.”

Overnight leader Ryu looked to be closing in on becoming just the fifth woman to win three consecutive majors.

The South Korean briefly led by five shots after reaching nine under when she was two under for the day through six holes.

However, the PGA Championship and Evian champion then produced five bogeys in eight holes.

Japan’s Shiho Kuwaki had a similarly rollercoaser round with two birdies and four bogeys to also finish on four under par.

They are joined by world number two Jeeno Thitikul, Lucy Li and Esther Henseleit. AFP

Cabanero, Badajos to represent

PH at The One Finals in Shanghai

By Peter Atencio

ANDWELLE Cabanero played hurt since the quarterfinals, but he hung on and mustered enough strength as he and KJ Badajos went on to win the men’s and women’s crowns of the Jordan Brand’s The One Manila finals on Saturday night.

The 17-year-old Cabanero, bucking a left shoulder injury he sustained in the round of eight, outscored University of Santo Tomas teammate Sean Bohol, 13-9, in a men’s finals following a raindelayed series of one-on-one basketball encounters at the Kerry Sports Arena.

“Sobrang grateful po ako. Hindi ko makukuha ito kung hindi ako binigyan ng strength ng Panginoon,” said Cabanero when action ended at the covered court of the Shangri-La the Fort, inside the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. The younger brother of former UST

varsity cager Nico Cabanero recovered from a collision in the quarterfinals and posted an 11-2 besting of Christian Dy to reach the semifinals.

After that, Cabanero quickly disposed of John Mike Gungob, 24-5, to advance to the finals against Bohol.

The 17-year-old Badajos, one of the key figures in the National University Lady Bulldogs’ title conquest in Season 88 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines under-19 girls’ basketball cagefest, knocked out La Salle College-Antipolo standout Jenny Paguipo, 17-6, for the women’s honors.

This gave Cabanero and Badajos the honor of representing the Philippines

FIFA chief still under fire from continental bodies

PARIS—FIFA president Gianni Infantino came under increasing fire from continental governing bodies on Saturday despite scrapping a widely-derided plan to allow private investment in the European football’s governing body UEFA had led the opposition to the plan by threatening to boycott all FIFA competitions if it

Although welcoming the withdrawal of the proposal, UEFA said that Infantino had lost their “confidence” and that of other members of the football family with a “shabby, back room, North and Central American football’s governing body CONCACAF went further still and called for “a comprehensive reckoning with this presidency”

while slamming Infantino’s “poor governance and leadership”.

Their responses came hours after Infantino had issued a statement announcing the humiliating climb-down after a furious backlash since the plan was first revealed on Tuesday.

“Our purpose has always been -- and will always be -- to unite and improve,” Infantino, who hopes to be re-elected next year for a final term, said in a statement.

“As a result, this proposal will not proceed.”

FIFA, world football’s governing body, had floated the plan on Tuesday, saying it could raise up to $4.2 billion based on a valuation of $20 billion for a new commercial subsidiary, called the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which it proposed would run events such as the World Cup and Club World Cup.

It said that, if approved, the project could provide each of FIFA’s 211 member associations with a one-off payment of $20 million in early 2027, and increase their funding allocation for the 2027-2030 cycle from $8 million to $20 million.

Infantino ‘has failed’

UEFA, though, said the plan showed that Infantino could not be trusted.

“The current FIFA leadership has not only lost UEFA’s confidence but also that of many other members of the foot-

ball family,” read UEFA’s statement.

UEFA said that the 56-year-old Swiss had broken promises he made when he successfully first sought election in 2016 -- namely to be “transparent” and that FIFA’s money was “your (the member associations) money” and “not the money of the FIFA President”.

“On both these promises, he has failed to deliver,” said UEFA.

“The shabby, back room, opaque deal he hatched and tried to force through were anything but transparent.

“And with reserves standing at over $5bn, he has also failed to use associations’ money for the benefit of the game.”

CONCACAF, which includes all three co-hosts of the recently concluded 2026 World Cup -- the United States, Canada and Mexico -- weighed in with its own damning assessment of Infantino’s actions.

“This recent unilateral and egregious act of poor governance and leadership follows a pattern of missteps and similar behaviour,” it said in a statement.

Infantino’s plan had “advanced outside every established governance framework, without transparency, consultation or due process.”

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC), which represents 47 member nations, urged FIFA to follow the right procedures. AFP

on August 29 at The One Global Finals in Shanghai, China. They will join the best young players from North America, Europe, and the rest of Asia for the right to be crowned as among the best in the game.

“Sobrang challenging ang pagtungtong ko sa finals. Madami kasing magagaling pa sa akin,” said Badajos. A sudden afternoon downpour earlier held up the elimination matches, which flooded the Jordan Flight Deck in BGC and forced organizers to transfer to another suitable venue.

During the men’s finals, Cabanero took the lead quickly, following two treys, 6-0.

Russian teen Liutova makes 1st WTA final

16-year-old

Liutova is into the final in her first WTA Tour-level event, booking a title shot in Memphis with a 7-5, 6-1 victory over Elvina Kalieva on Saturday. Liutova, ranked 229th in the world, will be the youngest player to contest a WTA final since American Coco Gauff in Austria in 2019. The first player born in the 2010s to make a WTA final, she called her week in the 250-level event a “miracle journey” after her quarter-final win over sixth-seeded Caty McNally. In her first WTA main draw match she advanced past top-seeded Ekaterina Alexandrova, who retired with heat illness with Liutova leading 7-6 (7/2), 4-6, 5-4. She beat Australian Maya Joint in the second round before knocking off McNally 6-3, 6-4. In Sunday’s final she will face 114th-ranked Czech Darja Vidmanova, who beat 83rd-ranked Renata Zarazua of Mexico 6-3, 6-3. Vidmanova, 23, will also be playing her first WTA final. AFP

Team Spirit pulls off historic Mid-Season Cup win at ‘26 Esports World Cup in Paris

PARIS—A new powerhouse region has arrived in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Esports!

Team Spirit (TS) became the first team outside Southeast Asia (SEA) to win an official international MLBB major tournament after claiming the MLBB Mid Season Cup (MSC) at the 2026 Esports World Cup (EWC) in Paris, France.

The champions of Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA) defeated Yangon Galacticos (YG) of Myanmar, 4-3, yesterday (1 August) to secure a USD 1 million purse in a high-octane Grand Final that went the full series—a summit clash befitting the MSC’s European debut.

Team Spirit’s victory capped an MSC that witnessed some of the most competitive displays from emerging regions in the tournament’s nine-year history.

Traditional powerhouse regions suffered early exits at the hands of emerging regions, with defending MSC champions—Team Liquid Philippines (2025) and Selangor Red Giants (2024)—crashing out in the Group Stages.

Team Spirit themselves swept Team Vamos

(Malaysia) and ONIC (Indonesia) in the Knockout Stage to earn EECA the right of being only the fourth region to lift the MSC trophy, joining Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. ONIC crushed Team Falcons PH, 3-0, in the Third Place Match to secure a podium finish. Tiger Xu, Global Head of MLBB Esports at MOONTON Games, said: “Congratula tions to Team Spirit on a MSC victory! Bringing MSC to Europe for the first time marked an important milestone in the continued globaliza tion of MLBB Esports, and this tournament has demonstrated the pro gress our ecosystem has made. Crowning our first international MLBB champion from outside Southeast Asia reflects

the competitive depth of MLBB Esports and the impact of expanding competitive pathways across all regions. As more teams gain access to sustained competition and international opportunities, our competitive field becomes stronger and more diverse. Our ambition is to continue building an ecosystem in which world-class talent can emerge from every region and compete Fabian Scheuermann, Chief Games Officer, the Esports Foundation, said: “Mobile Legends: Bang Bang at

EWC continues to showcase the huge global potential of mobile esports. After establishing its position as an esports powerhouse in Southeast Asia, MLBB has made a huge global statement at EWC 2026 in Paris. French Club, Team Vitality defended its title at this year’s MLBB Women’s International. Meanwhile, Team Spirit has made history, becoming the first team outside of Southeast Asia to win the MLBB Mid Season Cup, which was also hosted in Europe for the first time. MLBB continues to break down barriers and, with EWC’s global audience, has shown the world the power of mobile esports.”

Team Spirit’s roster comprises Anton “Hiko” Pak (Gold Laner), Kemiran “Sunset Lover” Kochkarov (Mid Laner), Mathaios “Kid Bomba” Chatzilakos (EXP Laner), Stanislav “SAWO” Reshniak (Roamer), and Zaur “zauregoist” Magomadov (Jungler). Kid Bomba was named the Finals Most Valuable Player (FMVP) after impeccably holding Team Spirit’s frontline on his wide repertoire of tank heroes, while 16-year-old prodigy, zauregoist, captured the imaginations of assassin mains worldwide with his deft plays on heroes like Hirara.

Team Spirit celebrates its MSC victory at the 2026 Esports World Cup (EWC). Photo by Esports Foundation.

KJ Badajos (left) and Andwelle Cabanero (right) share the limelight after winning the women’s and men’s honors, respectively, of Jordan Brand’s The One Manila Finals.

MONDAY, AUGUST 3, 2026 RIERA U.

PH aims for superb hosting of Aerobic Gymnastics’ meet

WITH just two days remaining before the opening of the 10th Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships, the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) is putting the finishing touches on what it hopes will be another world-class competition.

The Asian gymnastics showcase gets underway Wednesday at the Tagaytay CT Velodrome in Tagaytay City, with the Philippine delegation and organizers determined to build on the success of last year’s World Championships.

“We set the bar high in staging last year’s World Championships, so we won’t be satisfied with anything less

Korean baseball cancels 2 games over heatwave

SEOUL, South Korea—South Korea’s baseball league cancelled two professional games Saturday to ensure the safety of players and fans in a heatwave.

The highest level of heat warning -- issued when temperatures are forecast to reach at least 39C -- has been in effect since Friday in Busan and Changwon, where the games had been scheduled.

Saturday’s games between Samsung and Lotte in Busan and KIA and NC in Changwon were cancelled, the Korea Baseball Organization said in a statement.

“Severe heatwave warnings have been in effect for the Changwon and Busan areas since yesterday,” it said.

“The decision was made with the safety and health of spectators and players as the top priority,” it said, adding that the games would be rescheduled.

Scientists warn that extreme weather events such as heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense as a result of human-induced climate change.

Temperatures topped 40C in South Korea’s southeastern city of Yangsan for a fourth straight day on Saturday, hitting a record 41.6C.

A reading of 42C in Yangsan would mark the highest recorded under South Korea’s modern weather observation system, including automatic weather stations, according to Seoul’s Yonhap news agency.

Interior ministry data showed 13 people had died among 1,701 who suffered illnesses from heat-related causes in the first seven months of this year.

South Korea issued its first-ever emergency heatwave alert in July, advising people to avoid outdoor activities and stay cool under a new warning system. AFP

than matching, if not surpassing, that for this forthcoming competition,” GAP president Cynthia Carrion said.

“This is the first Asian gymnastics meet in the country in a long while, so we want to put our best foot forward for all the participants who are coming over to Tagaytay for this tournament,” she added.

Carrion, known for her meticulous

attention to detail, said she takes particular pride in the venue chosen for the championships.

The GAP-organized event, sanctioned by the Asian Gymnastics Union, will be held inside a transformed Tagaytay CT Velodrome, with the cycling oval modified into an aerobic gymnastics arena.

“Given the location of our championships, our athletes, coaches and officials are in for a pleasant surprise, given how we transformed an indoor cycling oval into a cool-looking aerobic gymnastics arena,” Carrion said.

She also expressed her gratitude to Philippine Olympic Committee president and

former Tagaytay Mayor Bambol Tolentino, incumbent Mayor Brent Tolentino, and Vice Mayor Agnes Tolentino for helping make the event possible despite the rela tively short preparation period.

The championships will bring to gether the region’s top junior and sen ior aerobic gymnasts from Cambodia, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, India, In donesia, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam, along with host Philippines.

Competitors will see action in the men’s and women’s divisions in the senior (18 and above), junior (15-17), and youth (12-14) categories.

Abra turns back Binan in MPBL

ABRA Solid North quashed Binan’s final assault to prevail, 63-53, on Saturday and keep top spot in the SportsPlus MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 2026 Season at the Alonte Sports Arena in Binan, Laguna. DJ Fenner triggered a seven-point cluster in the last five minutes that pushed the Abra Weavers ahead, 6051, and secured the defending champions’ 18th win in 19 starts in the round-robin elimination phase of the two-division, 26-team tournament. Abra extended its hot run to 16 and paced the race for playoff spots in the North division, towing Caloocan (182), San Juan (16-2), and Ilagan Isabela (14-7). Binan threatened at 49-51 after a triple by Renzo Subido, but Dave Ildefonso retaliated with a triple to increase Abra’s lead to five. Marc Pingris scored inside to cut the deficit to 51-54, only for Fenner to drill in a jumper, Shaun Ildefonso to cut loose, and Fenner to nail another jumper with 3 minutes and 41 seconds left that pulled Binan down to 16-4 and third place in the South division, behind Batangas (15-3) and Quezon Province (14-2).

Dave Ildefonso, the reigning MVP, posted 12 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 blocks to capture his third straight SportsPlus best player honors over Fenner, who finished with 14 points and 7 rebounds, and Jake Figueroa, with 13 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists.

Alas Girls unfazed ahead of FIVB U17 World Championship

THE ALAS Pilipinas Girls leave for Chile this week determined to embrace the biggest challenge of their young careers at the FIVB Volleyball Girls U17

World Championship.

The Philippine youth squad will compete against some of the world’s top teams in the August 6 to 16 tourna-

ment, carrying confidence built from its breakthrough qualification in the Asian Volleyball Confederation Women’s U16 Championship.

Despite facing traditional volleyball powers, the Filipinas—supported by the Philippine Olympic Committee and Philippine Sports Commission insist they are approaching the tournament without fear.

“Pare-parehas lang po kami nagte-traning at magkaka-aga lang kami, so dapat huwag kaming matakot at ipakita lang namin kung ano pong meron sa team,” UST standout Megan Hernandez said.

Leading scorer Xyz Rayco, who starred in the AVC U16 Championship, echoed that mindset.

“Kailangan ipakita namin na palaban kami,” Rayco said.

Assistant coach Oliver Balse believes the team can match up with taller opponents through skill and preparation.

“Sa age-group, kahit ibang lahi, parepareho pa. Merong taller players of

course, but skills makakatapat tayo sa kanila,” Balse said.

The Philippines is bracketed in Pool B with China, Mexico, Peru, Tunisia and Venezuela.

National University’s Khaira Manzano, Irish May Mahinay, Frances Dianne Ramos and Jhaynna Bulandres are also on the squad with Bacolod Tay Tung’s Madele Gale, King’s Montessori School’s Sharina Lleses, Caera Celis of St. John’s Institute, Ateneo’s Resty Jane Olaguir and Jhenica Sadia, UST’s Taj Arkhea Teves, Nadeth Herbon of Leyte National High School and Jello Andrea Mauricio of San Felipe Neri Catholic School.

Host Chile heads Pool A featuring Czechia, Egypt, Thailand, Turkiye and the US.

Pool C has Argentina, Brazil, Croatia, Spain, Japan and Poland.

Italy and Korea are In Pool D with Algeria, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Chinese Taipei.

Sidlak Bagani boosts

THE RLC Residences IRONKIDS Lapu-Lapu is set to make history as it opens the IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu race weekend on Aug. 8 with a record field of more than 600 young participants, underscoring the sport’s growing popularity among Filipino youth and the host city’s commitment to grassroots triathlon development.

Organized by Sunrise Events, Inc., the swim-run event for children aged 6 to 15 has attracted its biggest turnout yet, drawing aspiring triathletes from LapuLapu City and neighboring towns and provinces. The milestone participation reflects the continuing success of IRONKIDS as both an entry point for first-time racers and a competitive stage for young athletes looking to sharpen their skills.

Adding even greater significance to this year’s event is the participation of 65 youngsters from Sidlak Bagani, Lapu-Lapu City’s flagship youth triathlon development program. The contingent, composed of the program’s batch of athletes, represents one of the largest organized teams in the event and serves as a testament to the city’s sustained investment in nurturing future champions.

A partnership among the Lapu-Lapu City government, SEI, IRONKIDS and local sports stakeholders,

Sidlak Bagani offers free triathlon training to children aged 6 to 15, helping develop not only athletic ability but also discipline, confidence and healthy lifestyles. Their participation highlights how community-based sports programs can create meaningful pathways for young athletes to compete on a national stage. The event welcomes both newcomers and returning IRONKIDS participants through individual and relay competitions.

In the individual swim-run races, competitors aged 6-8 will tackle a 150-meter swim and 1km run; the 9-10 division will race over a 150m swim and 1.5km run; the 11-12 category will cover a 250m swim and 1.5km run; while the oldest group, ages 13-15, will take on a 250m swim and 2km run. Relay competitions will feature mixed teams, with the 11-15 division racing over a 250m swim and 1.5km run, while the 6-10 category will compete in a 150m swim and 1km run.

The IRONKIDS event launches a packed IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu festival that begins on Aug. 7 with the all-female Reyna Bulakna Run. Action peaks on Aug. 9 with the Sunrise Sprint, a beginner-friendly race featuring a 750-m swim, 25km bike

Spearheading the local challenge is the seasoned duo of Arcenio Cadios and Charmaine Dolar, who captured the silver medal in the mixed pair event in last year’s 33rd Thailand Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand.

The Alas Pilipinas U17 Girls team (from left) Cristina Madele Gale, Irish May Mahinay, Resty Jane Olaguir, Jello Andrea Mauricio, Taj Arkhea Teves, Nadeth Faye Herbon, Jhenica Sadia (covered), Caera Celis, Frances Dianne Ramos, Megan Yesha Hernandez, Sharina Rhyza Lleses, Jhaynna Love Bulandres, Xyz Ellen Rayco, Princess Khaira Manzano, assistant coach Oliver Balse and head coach Edwin Leyva. POC Photo

Analysts predict faster July inflation

6.4% 6.5%

Actual inflation in June Metrobank’s inflation forecast for July

6.6%

RCBC’s inflation forecast for July

Business groups laud measures to cut power cost

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) welcomed proposals to scrap systems loss charges and the value-added tax (VAT) on electricity, saying the move would give consumers and businesses immediate relief, though it urged sweeping reforms to bring down power costs over the long term.

PCCI president Perry Ferrer said removing the systems loss charges and the corresponding VAT would help ease the burden of high electricity prices, but he warned that structural changes are still needed to make Philippine industries more competitive.

“Removing systems loss and the corresponding VAT offers immediate relief, but it must be followed by broader reforms to ease the burden on consumers and industries truly,” Ferrer said, adding that the competitiveness of local businesses depends on reliable and affordable power.

PCCI director for energy and power David Chua said households and businesses continue to shoulder numerous pass-through charges, making it necessary to rationalize other fees while pursuing long-term reforms.

“Removing systems loss and VAT is a welcome start, but the bigger challenge lies in rationalizing other charges, diversifying our energy mix and unlocking indigenous resources,” Chua said.

The business group said the government should prioritize reliable baseload power to provide round-theclock electricity for manufacturers and investors.

PCCI also called for stronger regulatory and market efficiency, including a shift from the feedin tariff subsidy mechanism to competitive renewable energy procurement under the Green Energy Auction program.

By Thony Rose Lesaca

SEVERAL analysts expect Philippine inflation to have breached 6.4 percent in July 2026, as renewed pressures from food, fuel and transport costs weighed on consumer prices, while a smaller group of economists see a slight easing.

Headline inflation softened to 6.4 percent in June from 6.8 percent in May on slower price increases in food and transport costs. Core inflation, however, rose to 4.4 percent from 4.1 percent in the previous month.

Metrobank chief economist Nicholas Mapa and ANZ Research both pegged July inflation at 6.5 percent, citing potential price pressures from food and transport costs. Mapa attributed the potential uptick to the year-on-year increase in pump prices, utility costs and food items.

ANZ Research said transport inflation likely remained elevated despite oil prices edging lower

compared with April. The firm said key inflation risks to monitor include elevated food prices and second-round effects from higher fuel prices.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort forecast inflation at 6.6 percent, as the renewed US-Iran conflict in early July erased the decline in global and local oil prices seen in June.

Union Bank of the Philippines chief economist Ruben Carlo Asuncion forecast inflation at 6.7 percent on renewed pressures from selected food items, utility costs and the lingering pass-through of higher fuel and transport costs.

Reyes Tacandong & Co. senior adviser Jonathan Ravelas gave the highest inflation estimate at 6.8 percent, citing higher food prices, weather-related supply disruptions, elevated transport and logistics costs and the lingering effects of earlier peso weakness. Asuncion and Ravelas both expect core inflation to keep rising as price pressures remain broad-based.

Bank of the Philippine Islands lead economist Emilio Neri Jr. and Security Bank Corp. chief economist Angelo Taningco, meanwhile, expect inflation to ease slightly further in July.

Taningco forecast inflation at 6.3 percent, pointing to higher fuel prices, electricity costs, rice prices and restaurant costs amid more expensive global oil and fertilizer prices.

Neri said inflation likely eased to 6.2 percent in July, reflecting higher electricity rates and domestic fuel prices following the rise in global oil prices due to renewed hostilities in the Middle East.

MICE SUMMIT. Industry leaders from government, aviation, tourism and the private sector gather at the Cebu Business Month 2026 MICE Tourism Summit to discuss strategies for strengthening Cebu’s position as a globally competitive Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) destination through connectivity, collaboration and destination development. Held at The Glass Pavilion, Mactan Newtown Beach, the summit brought together representatives from the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA), local government units, airlines, business organizations, and tourism stakeholders to exchange ideas on strengthening Cebu’s competitiveness as a destination for international business events.

VinFast eyes over 100 e-motorcycle showrooms in PH

VIETNAMESE electric vehicle maker VinFast aims to expand its Philippine dealership network to more than 100 electric motorcycle showrooms by the end of 2026, building on the launch of its local retail network with 21 pioneer dealerships on Friday.

VinFast E-Motorcycle Philippines

chief executive Nino Fabros said the company will build the network through dedicated 3S (sales, spare parts and service) dealerships oper-

ated by independent partners across the country.

“We are partnering with motorcycle dealerships. These are independent dealers partnering with VinFast. We are the exclusive importer and distributor,” Fabros said.

The expansion follows VinFast’s official launch of its electric motorcycle ecosystem in the Philippines on Friday, where the company introduced three battery-swapping electric

DOE begins nuclear power site selection process with IAEA support

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy has started preparations for selecting nuclear power plant sites in accordance with internationally accepted safety standards, the agency said over the weekend. The DOE, working with experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency, is concluding an intensive Site and External Events Design workshop this week to strengthen the country’s nuclear power plant site selection process.

“Selecting the right site is among the most critical decisions in developing a nuclear power program,” Ener-

gy Secretary Sharon Garin said.

“Through our close collaboration with the IAEA, we are ensuring that every step is guided by science, rigorous technical evaluation and the highest international standards for safety, resilience and public protection,” she said. The workshop brings together technical experts from the DOE and partner agencies with specialists from the IAEA’s External Events Safety Section. The IAEA specialists are sharing recognized methodologies for evaluating potential nuclear sites against external hazards, including earthquakes, flooding, volcanic activity, extreme weather and other natural and human-induced risks.

scooter models: the Evo, Feliz II and Viper. The initial 21 dealerships will begin operations in major cities nationwide, giving consumers access to VinFast products, battery-swapping services, spare parts and authorized after-sales support. The network will continue to expand as the company builds a nationwide green mobility ecosystem, VinFast said. Fabros said all future outlets will operate as 3S dealerships, offering sales, spare parts and service exclusively for VinFast electric motorcycles.

He said the company will offer two dealership formats to suit different markets. Tier 1 showrooms will be established in highly urbanized areas, while smaller Tier 2 outlets will cater to other locations. He declined to disclose the investment required for each dealership.

VinFast plans to locate its dealerships near areas with a large concentration of conventional motorcycle users as it seeks to encourage riders to switch from internal combustion engine motorcycles to electric vehicles.

Fabros said the Philippines presents a significant growth opportunity for electric motorcycles, citing industry data showing annual motorcycle sales of about 2 million units, with scooters accounting for roughly 70 percent of the market. Othel V. Campos

PXP Energy seeks farm-in deals outside disputed waters

By Alena Mae S. Flores

PXP Energy Corp. is seeking farmin agreements with Chinese firms to develop petroleum service contracts outside disputed maritime areas as the company pushes for energy independence amid tensions in the Middle East, a top executive said.

“You know, it’s a very sensitive matter with China. It doesn’t help if there’s a water-cannon incident. It’s not fair to the Philippines, right?” PXP Energy Corp. chairman Manuel Pangilinan said.

“They really shouldn’t be doing that to us. Any prospect of getting oil and gas from these service contracts is many years of exploration to production,” he said.

Despite the long timeframe required to develop oil and gas exploration projects, Pangilinan says the country should stay the course.

“In the long run, I think we should do it. Because if you want energy independence, it’s best if you have indigenous fuel like solar and wind,” he said.

He said PXP Energy is inviting foreign partners to join its operations.

“We’ve invited the Chinese to join us and invest in service contracts in the Philippines into a farm-in. In which case, at least for service contracts, it’s not disputed within Philippine territory,” he said.

The Department of Energy executed Petroleum Service Contract No. 91 in the Northwest Palawan Basin on April 13, 2026.

The contract was awarded to a consortium consisting of Nido Petroleum Philippines Pty. Ltd., The Philodrill Corp., Oriental Petroleum and Minerals Corp., Alcorn Petroleum and Minerals Corp. and PXP Energy subsidiary Forum Energy Philippines Corp. PXP Energy said SC 91 further strengthens its upstream portfolio in Northwest Palawan, a proven petroleum province where the company and its subsidiaries maintain strategic exposure.

GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT.

Rachel Anne Herrera of the Climate Change Commission, who also chairs the agency’s gender and development focal point system, stressed the need to embed gender considerations across climate policies and programs during the mid-year training institute of the 28th International Women’s Human Rights and Governance Program. Organized by the Women and Gender Institute of Miriam College, the program aims to strengthen capacities on women’s rights and governance and translate evidence into actionable policies.

TOP BEACH. Bohol-Panglao International Airport welcomes travelers to Alona Beach, named among the Philippines’ Top 10 Beaches by Travel and Tour World. Alona Beach continues to attract travelers with its whitesand shoreline, vibrant marine life, world-class diving and lively beachfront

AUGUST 3, 2026

PH market stays cautious ahead of economic data releases

SHARE prices are expected to trade sideways this week as investors await key economic data, particularly July inflation and second-quarter gross domestic product figures.

Philstocks Financial Inc. said the market’s direction will largely hinge on whether inflation continues to ease and if the economy rebounded from its sluggish first-quarter performance. While headline inflation slowed in June amid easing oil price pressures and improved food supply, core inflation continued to rise, reflecting a buildup in demand-side pressures.

“For July, the market is expected to check both figures. A slowdown in both is expected to bring optimism to the bourse. A sustained increase in core inflation is expected to be a cause for concern, while an increase in both would bring pessimism,” Philstocks said.

Regarding GDP, Philstocks noted that a significant improvement in the second quarter over the first quarter could give the market a boost. Conversely, a further slowdown is expected to drag the market lower.

Meanwhile, investors are expected to remain wary of developments in the conflict between the United States and Iran, as any escalation that drives global oil prices higher could dampen market sentiment.

Last week, the benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange Index fell 44.57 points, or 0.71 percent, weekon-week to close at 6,236.44.

While the index reached an intraday high of 6,436.11 on Wednesday, it failed to sustain its momentum after the US Federal Reserve maintained its hawkish stance.

Year-to-date, the index is up 3.03 percent. Jenniffer B. Austria

GREEN LIGHT

Raymond R. Tan

PLDT’s Vitro REIT IPO to precede GCash listing

together.

MEDICAL SUPPORT.

Okada Foundation Inc., the charitable arm of Okada Manila, expands access to quality healthcare in Davao Oriental through a P165-million donation. The package includes medical equipment for the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center and Super Health Centers in Lupon and San Isidro, as well as a customized mobile clinic for Lupon. The donation was formally turned over during the medical center’s 55th anniversary celebration on July 24, 2026.

By Othel V. Campos

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE planned P24.2-billion real estate investment trust initial public offering of PLDT’s data center unit, Vitro Inc., will proceed as scheduled despite concerns it could compete for investor funds with the blockbuster P92.3-billion IPO of e-wallet giant GCash.

PLDT chairman Manuel Pangilinan said the Vitro REIT offering remains on track and is expected to reach the market first.

“As far as we’re concerned, we’re pushing the REIT,” Pangilinan told reporters. “Because we came first. So I understand we will be the first.”

The Vitro REIT is expected to raise up to P24.2 billion through the sale of up to 2.2 billion secondary shares at a maximum offer price of P11 apiece, making it the country’s first data center REIT.

ENERGY RESEARCH. The Philippine Electricity Market Corporation (PEMC) and the Philippine Energy Research and Policy Institute (PERPI) sign a memorandum of understanding on July 30, 2026, establishing a strategic alliance to foster evidence-based policy formulation, power sector research, and knowledge exchange in the Philippine electricity market. Signing the agreement are Elvin Hayes Nidea, president and WESM governance officer of PEMC, and Angel Chona Grace ValeroNuñez, deputy executive director of PERPI.

CLIMATE change is the world’s most critical environmental challenge. The Paris Agreement, to which the Philippines is a signatory, calls for collective action to eliminate civilization’s greenhouse gas emissions by mid-century and keep global warming to within 2oC by 2100. This global ambition has cascaded downwards to individual countries and sub-national entities like cities and corporations. Roughly two-thirds of emissions are now covered by national decarbonization commitments. The global business environment has also responded, with thousands of major companies having their own corporate net zero targets. Many of these firms, such as Google and Apple, are able to leverage their dominance to also pressure smaller ones in their value chains to likewise commit to carbon neutrality. Despite this global trend, the Philippines remains in the world’s small minority of countries without a net zero pledge. All the member nations of ASEAN except for us and Timor Leste already have official commitments. The region has roadmap document called the “ASEAN Strategy for Carbon Neutrality” that forecasts over USD 6 trillion in investments and more than 60 million new jobs in emerging green industries by 2050. Without a firm

By comparison, GCash parent Mynt is seeking to raise up to P92.3 billion in what could become the largest IPO in Philippine history. The timing has heightened concerns that the two offerings could compete for limited liquidity in the domestic stock market if launched close

Despite these concerns, Pangilinan said the company is sticking to the timetable for the Vitro REIT. Based on the latest filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the offer period for the Vitro IPO will run from Sept. 1 to Oct. 1, with a target listing date of Oct. 12. Meanwhile, GCash’s offer period is set for Oct. 5 to Oct. 9, ahead of a planned Oct. 19 listing. Philippine Stock Exchange president and chief executive Ramon Monzon previously noted that it would be better for the market if the planned IPOs were spaced farther apart. Together, the two IPOs are expected to raise P116.5 billion in total proceeds.

OCEANAGOLD (Philippines) Inc. has earmarked P768.43 million for the eventual rehabilitation and closure of its Didipio Mine, with P551.4 million already deposited in a trust fund under its Final Mine Rehabilitation and Decommissioning Plan as of 2026. The company said the rehabilitation fund will continue to grow in line with the mandatory annual provisioning schedule as it advances mine closure preparations while operations remain productive.

“Responsible mining means planning for rehabilitation throughout the life of the mine and for closure long before operations eventually conclude,” said Joan Adaci-Cattiling, OGP president for external affairs and social performance.

She said OGP’s progressive rehabilitation program, together with the continued buildup of the rehabilitation fund, ensures that financial resources, technical systems, and long-term plans are in place to support a safe, orderly, and sustainable transition after mining.

The Didipio Mine currently occupies about 340 hectares within its 975-hectare approved mining permit area. Around 100 hectares have been identified for progressive rehabilitation during operations, with more than 55 hectares already rehabilitated as of late 2025. OGP said the remaining disturbed areas will be rehabilitated in phases over the life of the mine. By the end of operations, about 221 hectares are expected to undergo final rehabilitation, while about 58 hectares—including the open pit and selected camp facilities—are being evaluated for productive post-mining uses instead of conventional revegetation.

Fixing the Philippines’ Net Zero blind spot

commitment to decarbonize its economy, the Philippines is ill-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities. There is a real risk that the Philippines will become a laggard in the carbon-constrained green economy of the mid-21st Century.

Since burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) is the main driver of climate change, their eventual replacement with renewable energy is what underpins global net zero ambitions. In particular, carbon-neutral electricity will allow deep decarbonization of many human activities. Future investment decisions by major corporations with net zero targets will be influenced by the local availability of clean electricity as part of the general infrastructure. In the Philippines, overreliance on coal has caused the carbon intensity of electricity to steadily creep up to a national average of close to 0.6 kg/ kWh while the world average has gone in the opposite direction. The low supply of clean electricity adds yet another deterrent to industrial investment in the country. Fortunately, the Department of Energy’s Philippine Energy Plan does have a clean energy scenario where fossil fuels supply just one-third of the nation’s electricity by the middle of the century. However, this residual fossil fuel use means that net zero

This nation urgently needs an official net zero pledge as a North Star that will guide the development of decarbonization policy instruments.

will not be achieved by 2050; nor does this official document have projections for the second half of the century.

Last year, I worked with collaborators from the University of Surrey in the United Kingdom and the University of Nottingham in Malaysia to run deep decarbonization projections using a bespoke computer model calibrated based on the Philippine Energy Plan (DOI: 10.1016/j. esr.2025.101893). Our simulations reveal a pathway towards net zero emissions that can be achieved with a mix of aggressive deployment of renewables coupled with carbon capture and storage and emissions trading. The scenarios require a gradual phasing down of fossil fuel use over a 25year period. The simulations demonstrate the technical feasibility of a national net zero target if it is driven by a sufficiently

strong policy to force the issue. Such a policy is still missing.

This global green energy transition will take decades to unfold, spanning multiple presidential administrations in the process.

The Philippine economy could face protracted carbon lock-in with capital assets based on obsolescent technology while the rest of the world embraces the green energy transition. This nation urgently needs an official net zero pledge as a North Star that will guide the development of decarbonization policy instruments during this critical period in history.

Raymond R. Tan is a Distinguished Full Professor of the Department of Chemical Engineering, a University Fellow, and the Vice-President for Research and Innovation of De La Salle University. He is a Fellow of The World Academy of Sciences and an Academician of the Philippine National Academy of Science and Technology. Prof. Tan’s research focuses on developing computer models to plan cleaner industrial systems. He is a multi-awarded academic who has been listed in the Scopus database of the top 2% of the world’s scientists since 2019 and in the Reuters “Hot List” of the 1,000 most globally influential climate researchers.

BUSINESS

FGen hosts 2nd youth summit to drive local climate action

CLEAN energy provider First Gen Corp. hosted its second youth leaders’ summit to equip students with knowledge and skills to address climate and energy issues in their schools and communities.

The Youth for Climate and Energy Leadership Summit, held at the headquarters of First Gen subsidiary First Gen Hydro Power Corp. in Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija, brought together 28 students from Pantabangan National High School and Cadaclan Integrated School.

The gathering marked the second time First Gen mounted the summit since launching the initiative last year under its environmental awareness program, Create for the Climate.

“Through YCELS, the participants learned from environmental experts and advocates about a wide range of topics, such as climate science, the evolving energy landscape, youth leadership, and youth-led climate action,” said Janice Ortañez-Dugan, First Gen assistant vice president.

Resource speakers represented First Gen, the Climate Change Commission, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, along with non-profit groups including Waves for Water, MAD Earth, YGOAL Inc., New Energy Nexus Philippines, and the Abot Tala Community. Building on the learning sessions, the students formed teams to develop climate action projects targeting environmental issues in their communities. First Gen, together with the Oscar M. Lopez Center and partner organizations, mentored the teams to refine their ideas into practical initiatives.

“Under the CFTC program, First Gen offers learning sessions and mentorship with its partner organizations to students to develop their CAPs for their schools and communities,” Ortañez-Dugan said. “To further encourage environmental initiatives and elevate the CAPs, First Gen offered seed funding to schools with the winning and most innovative projects.”

By Thony Rose Lesaca

THE World Bank Group on Friday approved the Philippines Accelerated Water and Sanitation Project in Selected Areas to expand climate-resilient water and sanitation services in Bohol, Siargao, and Jolo.

Known as AWSPSA, it is the first comprehensive project covering the entire process from water source development to sanitation. The project aims to expand access to safe and reliable water supply and sanitation services while improving the performance of local service providers through investments in climate-resilient infrastructure, promotion of hygiene practices, and strengthening of institutional capacity and governance.

The World Bank will finance $250.87 million of the project’s $268.62 million total cost, with the remaining balance funded by the national government and privatesector equity. The Department of Public Works and Highways and the Department of the Interior and Local Government will implement the project.

The multilateral lender said Bohol, Siargao, and Jolo

Exporter sends 1st shipment of fresh produce to Saudi

By Othel V. Campos

GOVERNMENT efforts to link Filipino farmers with overseas buyers scored another breakthrough as a Davao-based exporter shipped its first commercial load of fresh produce to Saudi Arabia following a trade exhibition in Dubai.

The Department of Agriculture said its Regional Field Office XI recently led the send-off of a 17.2-metric-ton shipment of Cardava bananas, sweet potatoes, and singkamas (jicama) to Jeddah.

The P800,000 shipment, exported by Gerb Golden Hands Corp. of Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte, consists of 1,350 boxes of 12-kilogram Cardava bananas, 50 boxes of 10-kilogram sweet potatoes, and 50 boxes of 10-kilogram singkamas.

The produce is bound for Rana Mohammed Saleem Commercial LLC in Jeddah. According to the DA, the export order originated from the AGRA Middle East Exhibition 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, where DA Regional Field Office XI and Gerb Golden Hands Corp. showcased Davao’s agricultural products to international buyers.

The shipment is one of the early outcomes of the agency’s efforts to match Filipino producers with overseas importers through international trade missions and exhibitions.

“This shipment is proof that our participation in international trade exhibitions creates real market opportunities for our farmers and exporters. Every successful shipment strengthens Davao Region’s reputation as a dependable source of premium agricultural products and opens the door to more sustained export opportunities,” said Macario D. Gonzaga, DA regional executive director.

were selected through a prioritization framework that considered poverty levels, gaps in water access, vulnerability to droughts and floods, and project readiness— including feasibility studies, permits, and local government support.

The project also serves as the first phase of the broader Multi-Phase Programmatic Approach on Water Security and Resilience in the East Asia and Pacific Region.

Zafer Mustafaoğlu, World Bank country director for the Philippines, said the project addresses key drivers of water insecurity and service gaps, including climate vulnerability, operational inefficiencies, and financing constraints, while prioritizing the needs of women, youth, and vulnerable communities.

“By strengthening institutions and mobilizing private participation, it will help deliver reliable, safe services and support sustainable economic and tourism growth for island communities,” Mustafaoğlu said.

The World Bank said the project is expected to create 8,700 jobs within five years of completion, or about 46,500 jobs over 25 years through near-term construction work and the resulting expansion of local economic activity.

It is also expected to benefit tourists, public school students, and people in healthcare and daycare facilities by providing reliable water and sanitation services that are resilient to climate hazards.

TransCo seeks 2027 FIT-All rate approval, lower green energy allowance

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE National Transmission Corp. is seeking approval from the Energy Regulatory Commission for a feed-in tariff allowance rate of P0.2154 per kilowatt-hour for 2027.

This is a slight increase from the existing FIT-All rate of P0.2011 per kWh. The FIT-All is a uniform charge billed to all on-grid electricity consumers supplied through distribution or transmission networks.

However, the ERC approved a temporary increase in the 2026 FIT-All rate to P0.3359 per kWh—an increase of P0.1348 per kWh—for a threemonth period to cover TransCo’s

working capital allowance costs.

The FIT-All rate will revert to P0.2011 per kWh after the threemonth recovery period.

TransCo manages the FIT-All under the FIT System, an incentive scheme that grants eligible power plants priority grid connection, priority purchase, transmission, and payment for generated electricity, as well as a fixed tariff for at least 12 years.

To determine forecast annual renewable energy generation, TransCo primarily used the Department of Energy’s updated list of RE plants projected to be eligible under the FIT System from 2014 to 2027, along with corresponding forecast data.

TransCo also used its database of historical information and submissions from RE developers regarding actual and projected generation.

Granting provisional authority will enable TransCo to fulfill its duties and ensure timely FIT payments to eligible RE developers, the state firm said.

Conversely, a delay in approving the proposed 2027 FIT-All rate or denying provisional authority could lead to a shortfall in the FIT-All Fund, preventing TransCo from promptly or fully paying actual FIT revenues to eligible RE plants.

Meanwhile, TransCo is seeking approval for a Green Energy Auction

Allowance rate of P0.0100 per kWh, down from the existing P0.0371 per kWh.

TransCo filed the application as administrator of the GEA-All fund. Collection of the GEA-All, a uniform charge billed to all on-grid electricity consumers, is presently suspended to give consumers a reprieve from high power rates.

Provisional authority would enable TransCo to fulfill its duties and ensure timely, full payments of Green Energy Tariff revenues to GEA plants. Under GEA-All guidelines, any delayed or partial payment will incur interest, ultimately resulting in additional charges for end users.

ASEAN chairship offers PH chance to turn regional priorities into action, experts say

THE Philippines’ 2026 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Chairship presents a critical opportunity to translate regional commitments on digital transformation, resilient supply chains and inclusive economic growth into concrete action, experts said.

Policymakers, academics and business leaders made the assessment at a symposium titled “Aligning ASEAN 2026 Priorities with APEC Agendas: Advancing Digital Transformation and Resilient Supply Chains in the Asia-Pacific,” organized by the Philippine Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Study Center Network of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies and De La Salle University. Participants agreed that ASEAN and APEC already share many policy priorities, though they said delivering measurable outcomes for businesses, workers and communities remains the central challenge.

Department of Trade and Industry chief trade-industry development specialist Denise Cheska Enriquez said the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship comes at a pivotal time as the bloc begins implementing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.

“The chairship and the priorities, they do not exist in a vacuum. They are a response to what is happening in the world,” Enriquez said, noting that the country’s Priority Economic Deliverables seek to strengthen trade and investment, accelerate digital transformation, support micro, small and medium enterprises promote innovation and advance sustainable and inclusive growth under the Lead, Sail, Rise ASEAN framework. She said the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 raises expectations for the regional bloc to demonstrate what it can deliver for its member states.

Pantabangan National High School students present their climate action project blueprints during the second Youth for Climate and Energy Leadership Summit, organized by First Gen Corp. for student leaders from Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija. First Gen designed the summit to equip participating students with knowledge and skills to address climate- and energy-related issues in their schools and communities.

HEALTH CENTER. International Workplace Group opens 5 new Philippine workspaces in 2026, including the country’s first Humanly healthcare and wellness center in Casiguran, Aurora, as part of a broader 76-center expansion plan. The Humanly APECO Super Health Center will provide purpose-designed space for medical,

SEC asks MSMEs to tap capital market for growth

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is encouraging micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to incorporate so they can raise funds from the capital market and support long-term expansion.

SEC chairman Francisco Lim said at a recent forum that incorporation would let small businesses access financing options that could help them grow into larger enterprises.

“Every large corporation was once a small business,” Lim said.

“So never underestimate where you are today. The next great Filipino enterprise may begin in a sari-sari store, a home-based business, an online shop, or a family business represented in this very room,” he said.

The appeal came as the SEC held the three-day “Juan with SEC Caravan: Oportunidad Para sa Pag-Asenso ng Negosyo ni Juan” from July 21 to 23 at its headquarters in Makati City.

More than 600 business owners attended discussions on business registration, corporate governance, regulatory compliance and fundraising opportunities.

Lim said the SEC has been working to make doing business easier by

reducing regulatory costs, expanding digital services and speeding up processing times.

In 2025, the SEC cut the cost of corporate document requests by half.

This year, it increased the discount to 75 percent, resulting in nearly P211 million in discounted corporate data fees as of end-June 2026.

The commission also granted a 20-percent discount on corporate registration fees for MSMEs and a 25-percent discount on amendments to articles of incorporation involving increases in capital stock. The incentives have translated to about P149 million in registration fee discounts for the sector.

“Instead of paying higher regulatory fees, that money can now be used as additional capital—to buy equipment, expand inventory, improve technology, or hire more employees. That is what we mean when we say that the SEC is your partner in your growth,” Lim said.

LAW firm Salazar Enrile Defensor & De Mata Law Offices (SEDA Law) presented its Silver Coin Tribute to Tanzania honorary consul Betty Lao Ang-Chua during its silver anniversary celebration, recognizing her leadership, diplomatic service and lifelong commitment to social good and inclusive development.

The firm honored Ang Chua for her contributions as a business leader, diplomat and philanthropist. As Tanzania’s honorary consul, she has strengthened bilateral ties and advanced people-to-people relations while championing humanitarian causes, education and community empowerment.

SEDA Law cited Ang Chua “for her vast contribution to our nation through her roles as distinguished

diplomat, renowned cultural historian, prolific author and dedicated community leader.”

The firm lauded her “tireless dedication to the preservation of FilipinoChinese heritage and to the cause of women empowerment, education and philanthropy, thereby inspiring many young Filipinos to embrace their roots, pursue excellence and build bridges across cultures with pride and purpose.”

SEDA Law founding partner Jose Vicente Salazar said Ang Chua “is a respected figure in Philippine corporate and civic circles, who has built a distinguished career marked by grace, dedication and sustained public service.”

“She has received numerous recognitions for her trailblazing work as an entrepreneur, diplomat and advocate,

PLDT, Globe, Converge to build $500-m submarine cable network—DICT

By Darwin G. Amojelar

Telecommunications companies

PLDT Inc., Globe Telecom Inc. and Converge ICT Solutions Inc. plan to jointly invest about $500 million to build a nationwide domestic submarine cable network, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said.

DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said the project would establish an extensive undersea fiber optic network stretching from Batanes in the north, looping around Palawan and linking islands across the Visayas and Mindanao.

The network aims to transform the country’s digital infrastructure by connecting major islands through high-capacity fiber optic links.

Aguda said the proposal has already been presented to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to discuss implementation plans and coordination among participating agencies.

He said the government is organizing an inter-agency collaboration

involving six departments, including the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of National Defense, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Energy and Department of the Interior and Local Government.

Aguda said submarine cable deployment offers a faster and more efficient alternative to traditional landbased fiber deployment, which often requires extensive trenching and excavation.

“By utilizing submarine cables, the consortium can accelerate the country’s fiberization efforts,” Aguda said.

He said the fiber optic cables are designed to support distributed acoustic sensing technology, enabling the network to detect seismic activity associated with earthquakes and tsunamis in real time.

Aguda said the same technology can also identify vibrations generated by vessels passing above the cables, providing data that could support maritime domain awareness and national security operations.

DIGITAL INCLUSION.

Jessica Regullano is among the 1,500 students, personnel and campus vendors who joined the Land Bank of the Philippines’ Cash-Lite Campus initiative at the University of Nueva Caceres in Naga City to gain access to the bank’s digital payment channels, including the Mobile Banking App and Link.BizPortal. LandBank launched its Talubo Bikolnon MSME Fair and CashLite Campus initiative in Naga City on July 24, 2026, bringing together local entrepreneurs, students, government partners and academic stakeholders. The twin initiatives promote greater access to financing, digital payment solutions and financial literacy, supporting the advancement of digital financial inclusion across the Bicol Region.

IN BRIEF

Globe Telecom taps AI to boost productivity

GLOBE Telecom is investing in artificial intelligence tools, training and digital capabilities to prepare its workforce for an increasingly technology-driven environment, the company said.

including an honorary doctorate in law, reflecting her enduring impact on both business and society,” Salazar said.

“Consul Betty Ang Chua embodies the highest standards of leadership and service — qualities that inspire the business community and strengthen the fabric of our nation,” Salazar said.

Founded in 2001, SEDA Law has built a strong reputation in the Philippine legal sector for specialized, client-focused services across corporate, litigation, intellectual property, labor, taxation and related practice areas.

SEDA Law also honored several business and government leaders with the silver coin tribute in recognition of their “visionary leadership which helped transform the lives of ordinary Filipinos.”

Groups back bill scrapping IPO rule for power firms

By Alena Mae S. Flores

TWO energy industry associations have thrown their support behind a Senate bill that would remove the requirement for power generation companies to conduct an initial public offering, according to position papers submitted during a Senate hearing on amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) of 2001.

The Wind Energy Developers Association of the Philippines (WEDAP) said it backs Senate Bill 1088, which would drop the mandate for generation companies to offer at least 15 percent of their common stock to the public.

Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, the bill’s author, said the power generation sector is now competitive and open, allowing more players to enter the market. The bill cites existing consumer protection policies and argues the country needs an environment that attracts more investment into generation, particularly for renewable energy.

CHINA Bank Savings (CBS) has reopened its Automatic Payroll Deduction (APD) Lending Center in Malolos City, expanding access to banking services for educators and communities in Bulacan province. The upgraded facility, now located at 91 Paseo del Congreso Road, Barangay Catmon, Malolos City, offers a modern environment designed to deliver faster and more efficient banking services for teachers and other APD clients. The reopening forms part of the bank’s continuing investment in strengthening its branch network and enhancing the customer experience by bringing financial services closer to the communities it serves.

More than 80 percent of Globe’s workforce now has access to AI productivity tools, while over 2,500 employees have completed AI learning programs, the telecommunications company said.

Employees have developed more than 30 AI-powered applications and bots supporting procurement, quality assurance, customer engagement, data analytics and network operations, Globe said.

The company reported that 84 percent of employees experienced higher productivity after adopting AI-enabled workflows, with workers saving an average of three to four hours each week through automation.

CBS’ APD salary loan program has served as a financial solution for educators for more than five years through its partnership with the education sector, helping the bank expand its reach while supporting the financial well-being of thousands of teachers nationwide.

“At Globe, we see AI as an enabler of human potential,” Globe Telecom Chief Human Resource Officer Renato Jiao said.

“Our goal is not simply to adopt new technologies, but to equip our people with the tools, skills and confidence to thrive in an AI-enabled workplace. When our employees succeed, they create better experiences for our customers and stronger outcomes for the business,” he said. Darwin G. Amojelar

PH,

Cambodia eye deeper farm trade ties

THE Philippines and Cambodia are seeking to deepen agricultural trade and investment as both countries move to translate stronger diplomatic relations into broader economic cooperation across the agri-fishery sector. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. welcomed Cambodian Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Dith Tina and a business delegation to Manila as both economies step toward expanding bilateral collaboration in agriculture, fisheries and related industries.

“Your visit reflects the deepening strength of our bilateral relationship and our shared commitment to advancing cooperation in agriculture, fisheries, and broader economic development,” Tiu Laurel said.

Agricultural trade between the two countries reached $15.9 million in 2025, the Department of Agriculture said, adding that the figure highlights significant room for growth.

The agency sees opportunities to expand

Othel V. Campos LandBank

“We request the Committee to consider that public listing is a highly complex effort to demonstrate that a company is an attractive investment with growth potential,” WEDAP said. The association said generation companies with a single project or no plans to expand beyond a few projects — a profile that characterizes some of its members — cannot meet listing criteria and lack a path toward compliance.

“The entry of many new investors into power generation, especially in the renewable energy sector, is indicative that the public offering requirement is no longer needed to entice investment in the industry,” the group said.

Phil Hydro Association Inc. also welcomed the proposed bill and pushed for its enactment.

“Phil Hydro believes the IPO requirement no longer serves its purpose, especially as hydro developers whose average capacity is within the 5- to 10-megawatt range only,” Phil Hydro Association Inc. president Francis Joel Sayre said.

“About 90 to 95 percent of hydro plants are also below 50 megawatts in capacity. The ERC is also there to review and regulate our contracts if ever we wanted to enter into power supply agreements with DUs,” said Sayre.

WEDAP said EPIRA has successfully laid the groundwork for competition in the generation sector, pointing to annual average prices on the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) as evidence of the impact of increased electricity supply.

CBS APD lending group head Niel Jumawan (front row, fourth from left) joins VIP guests for the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the reopened Automatic Payroll Deduction (APD) Lending Center in Malolos City, Bulacan. With Jumawan are (front row, from left) building owners Orlando and Gloria Hara, CESO-V of SDS-SDO Malolos City Dr. Leilani Samson-Cunanan and senior

SEDA Law honors Tanzania Honorary Consul Betty Ang Chua with its Silver Coin Tribute during the firm’s 25th anniversary, citing her diplomatic service, cultural advocacy and philanthropy.

REAL ESTATE

NCR office market gets boost from lifting of IT park ban

AFTER

Manila, a move expected to spur fresh office development in the capital.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently signed Administrative Order No. 45, allowing PEZA to process applications for new IT parks and IT centers in the National Capital Region. The previous policy, introduced in 2019, suspended new ecozone applications in Metro Manila to encourage investments in the provinces.

The latest order applies only to IT parks and IT centers, while the moratorium remains in effect for other types of economic zones like manufacturing to support growth outside Metro Manila.

The Department of Trade and Industry said the policy seeks to attract more investments, create quality jobs, open up new real estate opportunities and reinforce Metro Manila’s position as the country’s leading information and communications technology hub.

More options for developers and occupiers

Property consultant Colliers said the policy comes at a time when demand for PEZAaccredited office space remains concentrated in Metro Manila’s established business districts.

Metro Manila currently has about 7.9 million square meters of PEZA-accredited office space, with around 1.46 million square meters available for lease. However, much of the vacant inventory is outside the locations preferred by many occupiers, such as Makati CBD, Bonifacio Global City and Ortigas Center.

Colliers estimates that about 681,000 square meters of office space currently undergoing PEZA processing or application could immediately be added to the market once approved.

The pipeline could expand further over the next five years. Between 2026 and 2030, around 607,000 square meters of office space already carries PEZA accreditation, while another 604,000 square meters may qualify under the revised policy. This will bring potential new supply to about 1.2 million square meters.

According to Colliers, the policy gives landlords a clearer path to attract PEZA-registered tenants, particularly information technology-business process management firms and global capability centers. It also provides occupiers with more choices as they expand operations in Metro Manila.

While regional centers such as Cebu, Clark, Iloilo, Bacolod and Davao continue to

LIMA Estate expands with university campus to strengthen industry workforce

Starting August 2026, 993 freshman engineering students will be enrolled under Batangas State University’s industry-aligned curriculum

to meet locator needs and strengthen workforce readiness.

first phase of a planned 10-hectare campus inside the 1,100-hectare estate developed by Aboitiz Economic Estates.

economic zone.

Starting this month, 993 first-year engineering students will begin classes at the interim Batangas State University-LIMA Campus, the

The project, undertaken in partnership with Batangas State University, is designed to bring higher education closer to industries located within the estate, allowing students to gain exposure to manufacturing, technology, logistics and business

operations while completing their studies.

The campus will rise within LIMA Estate’s industrial hub, home to more than 200 locator companies employing about 75,000 workers.

For Aboitiz Economic Estates, the initiative forms part of its Talent Edge program, which seeks to build a steady pipeline of skilled workers for businesses operating in its estates.

“The long-term competitiveness of our industrial regions will depend on whether education, employment and investment can grow together,” said Rafael P. Fernandez de Mesa, president and chief executive officer of Aboitiz Economic Estates and Aboitiz Land.

“Through our partnership with Batangas State University, LIMA Estate is helping build a more responsive talent pipeline that can support the continued growth of industry in Batangas and Southern Luzon,” he added.

The opening of the interim campus marks the first operational phase of the planned Batangas State University-LIMA Campus, which will eventually occupy 10 hectares within the estate.

The project reflects the growing role of industrial estates as mixed-use developments that combine manufacturing, commercial spaces, housing and now educational facilities to support long-term economic growth.

MONDAY, AUGUST 3, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JAYSON David once dreamed of making his mark in male pageantry, but the young talent is now chasing another childhood ambition: becoming an actor.

The 20-year-old talent of Leo V. Dominguez Management (LVD) makes his film debut in director Louie Ignacio ’s 40 Days , where he portrays Patrick, an autistic character that required extensive preparation and dedication. Speaking with Manila Standard Entertainment during a recent press junket at SuperSam in Quezon City, David shared that he remains open to joining pageants again but is currently prioritizing his acting career.

“If there’s an opportunity to do another pageant, why not? But right now, my priority is acting. Pageants will always be there, maraming platform for it, but showbiz also knocks on your door once, that’s why I’m grabbing the opportunity,” he said.

David previously served as the Great Man of the Universe Philippines Ambassador for Youth Empowerment 2024.

While pageantry helped build his confidence, he said acting has

Seguerra

OPM icon Ice Seguerra is taking the 25th anniversary celebration of the iconic ballad “Pagdating ng Panahon” to Australia, with a four-city tour kicking off on Aug. 29. The Australian leg of the Pagdating ng Panahon 25th Anniversary World Tour will visit Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, and Adelaide through Sept. 5, following Seguerra’s homecoming concert in Manila on Aug. 22. Produced by Fire & Ice Live, the Australian shows are presented in partnership with E-Talent International Group and Cheers Entertainment Australia.

Released in 2001, “Pagdating ng Panahon” became one of the defining Filipino ballads of its generation, earning Song of the Year recognition and becoming a favorite among audiences in the Philippines and abroad. Over the years, the song has remained part of

SHOWBIZ

Young talent puts pageant dreams on hold to chase showbiz break

always been a dream he wanted to pursue.

He cited Coco Martin ’s portrayal in Ang Probinsyano as one of his inspirations, admiring how the actor brought depth to challenging roles. David said he hopes to explore different genres in the future, including action projects.

His first major acting opportunity came through 40 Days after the role was initially intended for Ogie Alcasid , who became unavailable due to scheduling conflicts.

GMA Network has climbed to No. 15 in the Tubular Leadership Worldwide Ranking for June 2026, strengthening its position as one of the top-performing media and entertainment companies in Southeast Asia, based on data from Tubular Labs.

The network’s official online platforms recorded more than 7.5 billion video views across major social

weddings, family gatherings, karaoke sessions, and personal milestones among Filipino communities worldwide.

In April, Seguerra reunited with original label Vicor Music Corporation for a newly recorded 25th anniversary version of the song, introducing the classic track to a new generation while offering longtime listeners a fresh interpretation.

The world tour continues that celebration onstage, featuring the anniversary arrangement alongside songs from Seguerra’s music catalog.

“Recording ‘Pagdating ng Panahon’ 25 years ago was already special, but I never imagined how deeply it would become part of people’s lives,” Seguerra said. “The meaning of the song changes as you grow. Now, after everything life has taught me, the emotions feel deeper and more layered.” Liza Diño, CEO of Fire & Ice Live,

Pinagkatiwala po ng LVD Management sa akin ‘yung role na ’yun ,” he said.

Preparing for Patrick required David to study the character’s movements, speech, and expressions. He admitted that every scene came with challenges because he had to understand the emotions and details behind the role. He credited acting workshops for helping him overcome his initial hesitation and fully commit to the character.

David also expressed gratitude to senior co-stars Lotlot de Leon, Dina Bonnevie , and Snooky Serna for their guidance throughout filming. He shared that Bonnevie helped him connect with the emotions needed for important scenes, while de Leon made him feel supported on set.

Before entering acting, David started in the entertainment industry as a model after being discovered by LVD Management at a Bench-related event. He also found inspiration in his father, Ferdinand , a former model and actor who later became a soldier.

Now a second-year Tourism Management student in Tarlac, David continues to balance school and showbiz. As he takes on more challenging roles, he hopes to keep growing in the craft that has inspired him since childhood.

“I’m ready to take on new challenges and am very much willing to learn from the people I encounter in showbiz,” he said.

media platforms in June. Facebook accounted for 3.9 billion views, followed by TikTok with 1.9 billion, Instagram with 955 million, and YouTube with 681 million.

The latest ranking highlights GMA Network’s continued growth in digital platforms, as it expands its content offerings across news, entertainment, lifestyle, and other categories for Filipino audiences worldwide.

likened the milestone to Seguerra’s growth as an artist.

“We’ve all watched him grow up in front of us for almost forty years, from child star to the artist he is today. But ‘Pagdating ng Panahon’—more than half of his career—is what relaunched him as a musician, not just an actor,” Diño said.

The Australia tour will give Filipino audiences the chance to hear Seguerra perform the beloved track live while revisiting the stories and memories attached to the song.

The tour begins in Sydney on Aug. 29 at Norwest Hub, followed by Canberra on Aug. 30 at Fitzroy Pavilion in Exhibition Park in Canberra, Melbourne on Sept. 4 at Encore Events Centre, and Adelaide on Sept. 5 at Hewitson Theatre at Starplex.

Tickets are available through Eventbrite Australia.

The rising actor continues pursuing his childhood dream of acting while balancing his studies and showbiz career

Through its digital arm and subsidiary GMA New Media Inc. (NMI), GMA Network has also ventured into esports content through its partnership with Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) for the MLBB Mid Season Cup 2026 in Paris, France, as part of the Esports World Cup 2026. The collaboration allows audiences to watch livestream coverage of professional teams competing in the popular multiplayer online battle game. The matches are available through the network’s digital channels, including ATM (@ AdventureTasteMoments), GMA Regional TV (@ GMARegionalTV), and GMA Sports (@GMASportsPH) on YouTube. Fans can follow the remaining teams as they compete for a spot in the grand finals scheduled on Aug. 1.

Very Wang Nickie Wang

Jayson David sets aside pageant ambitions as he focuses on building his acting career through his debut film ‘40 Days’

Jayson opens up why acting has become his top priority over pageantry

LIFE

By Nickie Wang

IT was an elegant night where diamonds stole the spotlight.

Maddox Jewelry transformed the Isla Ballroom of EDSA Shangri-La Manila into a dazzling showcase of glamour and luxury when it staged the Iconic Runway Fashion Show 2026 on July 30.

Billed as the Philippines’ first and biggest diamond jewelry fashion show, the star-studded event brought together 40 of the country’s most recognizable personalities, turning the runway into a parade of celebrity style and breathtaking jewelry creations.

The evening began with a dramatic teaser featuring models adorned in dazzling diamond pieces. As the lights dimmed and the runway came alive, celebrities from the worlds of entertainment and fashion stepped out wearing exquisite necklaces, earrings, rings, and bracelets that caught every flash of the cameras.

Among the stars who walked the diamond runway were Cenon, Diego Loyzaga, AJ Raval and Aljur Abrenica, Kris Bernal, Edgar Allan Guzman, Polo Ravales, Sheree Bautista, Pancho Magno, Negi, celebrity couple Miles and Troy Montero

The glittering lineup continued with Diana Zubiri, Katya Santos, James Blanco, Nadine Samonte, Daiana Menezes, Geneva Cruz, Giselle Sanchez, Nana, Avery Cordial, Ara Mina, and Beauty Gonzales.

Completing the start-studded lineup were Maureen Larrazabal, DJ Durano, Ynez Veneracion, Regine Tolentino, Jeric Raval, Gary Estrada, Alma Concepcion, Pokwang, Claudine Barretto, Amy Austria, Jackie Lou Blanco, Yayo Aguila, Gardo Versoza, Epy Quizon, Eric Quizon, Roderick Paulate, and

A star-studded glittering spectacle

Tyla drops Lagos show as South Africa, Nigeria row over immigration

SOUTH African singer-songwriter Tyla has removed a scheduled show in Nigeria as tensions over anti-immigrant violence hamper relations between the two countries. No reason was given for the change to her tour, but it came after some Nigerians on social media had called for a boycott of the show.

For months, South Africa has been the scene of protests—some of them violent—against African immigrants that demonstrators have blamed for crime, unemployment, and a strain on public services.

Nigeria has become particularly outspoken on the issue, and tension was evident as highranking officials from Abuja and Pretoria met this week at the Nigerian ministry of foreign affairs.

Tyla, known for hits such as “Water” and collaborations with American artists Cardi B and Travis Scott , had on Monday announced stops for a world tour for her second album, “A*POP”, including Lagos, Nigeria’s economic capital, as well New York, Paris and Cape Town.

As of Friday morning, the Lagos leg , which had been timed to coincide with Nigeria’s year-end concerts frenzy season known as “Detty December,” had been removed from the line-up on her website.

Representatives for Tyla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

South Africa, one of the continent’s most industrialized economies, has long been a magnet for both undocumented and documented immigrants.

But the nation is also saddled with high unemployment, weak social services, and high crime, with immigrants being scapegoated for the country’s broader social ills and government failures, analysts say.

South African police say at least four foreign nationals have been killed in attacks linked to

the anti-migrant protests, though some African governments repatriating citizens have reported a higher toll.

More than 160,000 people have fled the country, according to an AFP tally based on figures from African governments repatriating their citizens, including about 1,500 Nigerians.

Pretoria’s handling of the protests has been heavily criticized as anti-immigrant groups have burst into people’s homes and dragged them into police vans. AFP

FILIPINO travelers are expanding their holiday plans beyond familiar Asian destinations, with booking data from travel platform Trip.com showing growing interest in emerging international destinations alongside continued demand for regional Trip.com data from the first half of 2026 showed that Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo, Bangkok, and Taipei remained among the most booked international destinations by Filipino travelers. Short-haul trips continue to attract travelers due to affordability, accessibility, and convenience.

However, more Filipinos are also exploring less familiar destinations. Palau recorded the highest year-on-year increase in bookings at 663 percent, followed by Oman at 482 percent, Saudi Arabia at 145 percent, Vietnam at 122 percent, Australia at 80 percent, and Canada at 67 percent. The trend also extends to established destinations. In Vietnam, bookings to Da Nang increased by 483 percent year on year, while Hanoi grew by 145 percent, suggesting that travelers are moving beyond traditional tourist gateways in search of new experiences. Trip.com noted that attractions and

Travelers explore beyond usual destinations

entertainment experiences continue to influence travel decisions. Among the most booked international attractions by Filipino travelers in the first half of 2026 were Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park Hong Kong, Universal Studios Singapore, and Universal Studios Japan. Seasonal tourism campaigns, including Hong Kong Summer Fun 2026, which features limited-time offers on hotels, attractions, and travel experiences through August, are also encouraging visitors to explore more activities beyond sightseeing. As the holiday travel period draws closer, booking trends point to a

Maddox Jewelry CEO Charo Cordial (center) joins celebrities (from left) Negi, Ryzza Cenon, Aubrey Miles, and Troy Montero following the runway showcase

Comedy actress Pokwang graces the

wearing the diamond jewelry with elegance

Jackie Lou Blanco adds classic elegance to the runway with sparkling diamond pieces

Claudine Barretto appears among the celebrities featured in the biggest diamond jewelry fashion show

Carmi Martin

the glittering production was Maddox

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Finding smarter ways to stretch travel budgets

FILIPINOS continue to prioritize travel despite rising living costs, with domestic tourism expenditure reaching P3.26 trillion in 2025, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

As summer draws to a close, many travelers are looking for ways to fit in one last getaway without straining their finances. Financial technology platform GCash encouraged travelers to plan ahead and make use of flexible payment options to keep trips within budget.

Among its recommendations are choosing destinations that fit one’s budget, booking transportation and accommodations early, traveling during off-peak periods, and splitting costs with family or friends.

“Travel doesn’t have to be an allor-nothing decision. With responsible budgeting and flexible payment terms that match their needs, Filipinos can make room for meaningful experiences while staying focused on their financial goals,” according to Baby Aquino , chief product officer and strategy head of Fuse Financing Inc. GCash also promoted financing options for eligible users, including GGives for installment payments on qualified travel purchases, GCredit for day-to-day travel expenses such as dining and transportation, and GLoan for planned or unexpected travelrelated costs.

With thoughtful planning and responsible borrowing, local travel doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing decision. Sometimes, the smartest getaways are simply the ones planned with intention, creating meaningful experiences for travelers while supporting the communities that make Philippine tourism thrive.

FOR the past 14 years, the popular Travel Madness Expo (TME) has been attracting thousands to the SMX Convention Center Manila, eager beavers availing themselves of the attractively massive discounts made available by participating hotels, airlines, tour operators, travel agencies, and other travel-related establishments.

This year, so far, has been the biggest since this expo was established. If the number of VIPs cutting the ceremonial ribbon during Opening Day was any indication of its massive support, then no other travel expo could match it.

There must have been a total of 50 travel and business personalities who positioned themselves on three levels on the stage, with each level having a long stretch of ribbon to cut.

Of course, the star of the event was the brains behind this expo, the fashion icon of the travel industry, Maria Paz “Pat” Alberto. Looking very regal in an avant-garde yellow gown, she invited everyone to avail themselves of the special discounts offered by all the exhibitors. This is certainly in sync with our tourism secretary’s call for our kababayans to find time to discover new and amazing attractions in the country. This is why our Department of Tourism (DOT) has coined the new tagline for domestic travel, “Discover More to Love,” encouraging us to do just that.

Other personalities also took the stage for their respective speeches. Representing our tourism secretary was Undersecretary Stanley Ng, while representing TME’s main sponsor, Philippine Airlines, was its vice president and chief operating officer, Attorney Carlos Luis Fernandez Pasay City Mayor’s speech was read by her daughter, Lesley Anne Calixto Rubiano

What keeps me busy when I go to expos like this is taking the time to visit several booths just to check the selling prices of domestic and international tickets, local tours, hotel rooms, and resort accommodations. I was so surprised to find out that some exhibitors even had discounts of as much as 70 percent.

Although I wasn’t really planning on buying anything, I found myself yielding to temptation when I saw very attractive offers from resorts in Palawan and Boracay. Some of my friends also had their “great discoveries” when they took the time to visit all the booths selling local tours. There were many attractive offers that caught my

Travel frenzy at the expo

I

offered tours to the area’s many attractions. It was also selling bangles and costume jewelry crafted by artisans in that part of the country.

Nearby was the CALABARZON booth, which looked so dainty because of what it was selling: beautiful dresses and Barong Tagalog materials featuring the famous, meticulously crafted Laguna embroidery.

No matter how I pinched myself as a reminder that I had already spent on the amazing bargains at the resorts in Boracay and Palawan and should stay away from another purchase, I still ended up with two new barong materials. Subic Bay’s booth made every visitor a star, as anyone could have his or her photo taken using sophisticated lighting, set against the destination’s logo as a backdrop.

Even the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), our country’s National Auto Club, and our version of the USA’s Triple A had a booth offering the issuance of an International Driving Permit, as it is the only organization in the country authorized to do so. The

booth also offered cruise line tours and packaged trips to various destinations all over the world through its affiliate, AAP Travel.

As for international destinations, I liked Tourism Malaysia’s booth, which had two adorable giant-sized bears welcoming visitors.

The Guam Visitors Bureau had a small nipa hut bearing its tagline, “Guam With Me,” a play on the common invitation, “Come With Me.” Of course, a favorite among a great number of visitors was the Korea booth, which had a very big space for guests to laze around in. The booth bannered the country’s tourism tagline, “Imagine Your Korea.”

The Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) also put up a big booth to invite marketers who may have the opportunity to meet foreigners. Eighty-five percent of PRA’s foreign retirees come from marketers, usually travel agents and tour operators, as they easily come into contact with foreign visitors who may link up with them to book tours or obtain other information about our country. These marketers receive, as an incentive from the PRA, the peso equivalent of US$500 for each foreign national they recommend who is granted our Retirement Visa. If the frenzy at this edition of Travel Madness is any indication, then our country’s travel industry is once again on the upswing, and, thanks to the DOT’s lead, domestic travel will certainly bring in the expected revenues this year. For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail. com.

Tourism Malaysia joins the fair as international booths court Filipino travelers with

The Guam booth uses its island-themed setup to promote travel options

Laguna embroidery takes focus at the CALABARZON booth as regional tourism groups use the SMX Convention Center Manila event to promote local crafts and domestic destinations

Pat Alberto leads the annual travel expo at SMX

The Korea booth gives visitors a place to explore travel deals and destination activities