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Sandigan orders Bonoan release; OMB: Will become state witness By Maricel V. Cruz, Vince Lopez, and Jimbo Gulle
VOL. XL • NO. 202 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026
FORMER Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan will become a state witness in cases involving alleged corruption in flood control projects after the Sandiganbayan anti-graft court ordered him
released from detention on Thursday, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said. Remulla said the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division had granted the prosecution’s motion to discharge Bonoan as a co-accused of Sen. Jinggoy Estrada in plunder and graft cases stemming from alleged Next page
‘No updated flood control plan’ Palace reviewing old master plans dating back to 1930s
By Charles Dantes
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HE Philippines still does not have a comprehensive, updated national floodcontrol master plan, Malacañang clarified Thursday, a day after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the country had a floodcontrol blueprint for decades that was never implemented.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the administration is now reviewing old flood-control proposals and developing plans for major river basins. Castro’s statement raised questions about why previous master plans were not carried out and whether the government’s current projects are being implemented under a comprehensive national strategy. Next page
SCHOOL SAFETY DRILL. Students of
Quirino High School in Quezon City bar their classroom door with chairs during the National Simultaneous School Safety Drill for emergency preparedness against active threat scenarios on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026. Inset shows a school teacher demonstrating how to use the SOS button installed at Melchora Aquino Elementary School in Tondo, Manila, on September 3, 2026. The emergency device, installed by Manila Police District Station 7, is directly connected to a local police station and can be activated when immediate assistance is needed. Manny Palmero, Norman Cruz
Palace eyes tighter spending, fiscal discipline as peso weakens By Charles Dantes MALACAÑANG is pushing tighter fiscal discipline and more targeted government spending as the peso continues to weaken to record lows. The Palace said public funds must be directed toward projects that can strengthen the economy and shield Filipinos from higher prices.
The peso closed at P62.565 against the U.S. dollar Wednesday, its fourth consecutive unprecedented decline, amid broad dollar strength and elevated global oil prices. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro, citing the Office of the Executive Secretary, said the govern-
ment’s response would center on fiscal discipline, more efficient use of public funds and increased spending on productive investments. “The administration’s approach focuses on fiscal discipline and more efficient use of public funds,” Castro said, reading the statement from the Of-
fice of the Executive Secretary. “This means reviewing spending proposals carefully and prioritizing programs with high economic and social returns,” she added. The continued depreciation of the Philippine currency has heightened Next page
Pinoys divided evenly on quality of life—survey By Katrina Manubay FILIPINOS’ assessment of their quality of life improved in June 2026, with the Net Gainers score rising to zero from a low of -26 in March, based on a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey. In the latest poll, results showed that 33 percent of Filipino adults said their quality of life had gotten worse Next page
FILIPINNOVATION AWARDS. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. hands over a plaque and check to one of the five winners of the 2026 Presidential FilipInnovation Awards, Victoriano B. Ocon, inventor of the Advanced Waste Solution machine (AWS), during a ceremony at Crown Plaza Hotel, Mandaluyong City. The AWS is a compact, environmentally friendly waste treatment machine that uses thermal decomposition under low-oxygen conditions, making it cleaner and more efficient than conventional incinerators. Also in the photo are (left) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan of the Department of Economy, Planning and Development, and (right) Engr. Rodney B. Juntilla, Plant Manager of AWS. Revoli Cortez
TUCP warns of cases vs. firms not obeying MM wage hike order By Vito Barcelo and Othel V. Campos AT THE READY. Philippine Army troops stand in formation after arriving have in
Barangay Kamasi, Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, as part of ongoing preparations for the 2026 Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections (BPE). Among the deployed forces is the 67th Infantry “Agila” Battalion, led by Lieutenant Colonel Noe Venancio T. Baluyan Jr., which came from Davao Oriental. The incoming troops were welcomed by Brigadier General Gremel B. Brual, Commander of the 601st Infantry “Unifier” Brigade. The deployment is intended to strengthen security and operational readiness in areas under the brigade’s jurisdiction and support efforts to ensure a peaceful, safe, orderly, and credible electoral process. Courtesy: 93.7 Star FM Cotabato
THE Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) on Thursday warned that workers will pursue legal action against employers that continue to withhold the first tranche of the P85 daily minimum wage increase in Metro Manila despite the absence of a valid court injunction. The labor group said employees may
file complaints before the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC), including cases involving underpayment of wages and money claims, if companies refuse to pay the P60 daily increase that took effect on July 25 under NCR Wage Order No. 27. Meanwhile, Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) presiNext page
Raps filed vs. 15-year old Tacloban shooter By Gwyneth Nolasco THE Department of Justice (DOJ) on Thursday confirmed that the Office of the City Prosecution (OCP) in Tacloban City ordered the filing of charges against the 15-year-old student involved in the Tacloban City school shooting on June 22, determining that he had “discernment” when he committed the crime. In a press conference, DOJ Undersecretary Atty. Ian Norman Dato said the 15-year-old child was charged with four counts of frustrated murder and six counts of attempted murder, and is referred to as a Child in Conflict with the Law (CICL). The 15-year-old student was accused of “opening fire” in the incident at San Juan National High School, and prosecutors found that he acted with “discernment” and in conspiracy with a 14-year-old minor, Dato said. Next page
8-T CU. FT. GAS RESERVES IN SULU SEA BUSINESS / B1
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SC asks OMB: Where’s the beef on erring judges? By Pot Chavez THE Supreme Court (SC) on Thursday urged the Office of the Ombudsman to bring allegations against members of the judiciary through the proper complaint process. This was the High Court’s response to the statements made by the Ombudsman during the Senate Committee on Finance hearings. “The Supreme Court agrees with the Ombudsman that court proceedings at all levels must be accountable to the public. This is not simply a matter of policy; it is required by the Constitution,” said SC spokesperson Atty. Camille Sue Mae L. Ting. “However, the Court cannot act on broad allegations against an entire appellate court based only on public statements. We therefore invite the Ombudsman, or any concerned party, to file the proper complaint and submit supporting evidence. This will allow the Court to determine the facts and, when warranted, exercise its disciplinary authority,” she added. The Court said it takes allegations of partiality, misconduct, and corruption seriously and acts on the same when proper complaints are filed and evidence is presented.
Sandigan... From A1 kickbacks from flood control projects. “Well, he will be a witness. He will be a witness for the people, para sa taumbayan,” Remulla said. In a minute resolution promulgated Thursday, the Fifth Division directed Police Brig. Gen. Portia Manalad of the Philippine National Police Health Service General Hospital to release Bonoan from its custody “unless he is being detained for other lawful reason.” The decision to drop Bonoan among the respondents in the plunder case – and thus allow him to become a state witness -- was not unanimous, however. In his dissenting opinion following the 2-1 vote, Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Gener Gito said the court should not accept the prosecution’s plea to discharge Bonoan without looking into the actual value of his expected testimony. Gito said the Ombudsman’s prosecutorial discretion cannot override the court’s judicial authority or procedural safeguards for other accused, questioning why Bonoan should be discharged if there was prima facie evidence against him sufficient to support a reasonable certainty of conviction. Still, the release order came after Bonoan’s counsel, Atty. Stefanie Ong, asked the court to set her client free during Estrada’s arraignment. The court also recalled the warrant of arrest and hold-departure order against Bonoan, who had been detained at the PNP General Hospital for nearly three months. Meanwhile, the Fifth Division entered a not guilty plea for Estrada after he refused to enter a plea during his arraignment on the amended plunder and graft charges.
TUCP... From A1 dent Sergio Ortiz Luis said employers holding off on implementing the mandated wage increase due to a court injunction should prepare to pay workers retroactively if the injunction is lifted. He said employers and business groups should respect the wage-setting process and the authority of the wage boards while the issue is resolved by the courts.
Petitions vs wage hike won’t prosper
“Anybody can file cases, but I don’t think it will prosper,” Ortiz Luis said, referring to legal challenges against the wage increase. The TUCP said there is no legal basis for employers to suspend the wage hike because the Pasig Regional Trial Court’s injunction was conditioned on petition-
Solon bats for P30b more for DOTr At the Transportation Department’s budget briefing conducted by the House Committee on Appropriations, the lawmaker moved for additional funding to cover
projects that have remained unfunded. “There are so many projects to be undertaken. Included there (in the P30 billion) will be the local counterpart for the fund-
ing they’re going to get [for the Mindanao Railway Project],” Rodriguez said. MRP Phase 1 involves constructing a 100-kilometer commuter rail line traversing Tagum in Davao del Norte and Digos in Davao del Sur. It targets to reduce travel time between the two cities from three hours to just one hour. For his part, Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez told the House appropriations panel that the DOTr is actively seeking partner countries and multilateral development partners to fund the railway project.
‘No updated... From A1
previous meeting that we need to update what needs to be done to account for the possible effects of climate change,” Castro recalled. The admission came as the administration faces renewed criticisms over the country’s recurring floods and the government’s multibillion-peso flood-control program. Castro said Dizon is currently focusing on master plans for major river basins, with projects being developed based on the different topography and conditions of each area. But when pressed on whether the government currently has a completed master plan that can serve as a nationwide blueprint, Castro pointed to the ongoing work on major river basins and the review of the Aquino-Singson plan. She also said former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan had previously told her he did not have a master plan from the administration of former President Benigno Aquino III. “He did not see a master plan from the previous administration of former President Noynoy Aquino,” Castro
told reporters. The conflicting accounts underscored the problem Marcos referred to in saying that flood-control plans had existed, but were not implemented or properly carried out during previous administrations. Castro said the Marcos leadership wants the updated flood-control and climate-change plans to be made public, allowing future administrations to continue the strategy rather than start from scratch. “The administration of President Marcos Jr. has always been transparent,” she pointed out. She said the government also needed political will to remove obstructions in waterways and carry out the necessary flood-control measures. “It cannot be put off until tomorrow; this is something that needs to be worked on now,” Castro said. She declined, however, to say whether the Department of Public Works and Highways alone would lead the drafting of a comprehensive national plan or whether urban planners, climate experts and other specialists would be involved.
count, totaling P216,000. Following the inquest proceedings conducted after the June 22, 2026, shooting, OCP Tacloban filed five informations before the Family Court of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Tacloban City on July 13, 2026, according to DOJ spokesperson Atty. Raphael Niccolo “Polo” Martinez. Prior to the four counts of frustrated murder and six counts of attempted murder mentioned by Usec. Dato in
the briefing, OCP Tacloban charged the 15-year-old CICL with three counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder for allegedly conspiring with a second, criminally exempt minor. Martinez said the murder case is pending in court. Dato then explained how the prosecution determined the accused student’s discernment in accordance with the order involving the CICL.
(termed by SWS as “losers”), and 33 percent said it had improved (“gainers”), while 34 percent said it was the same (“unchanged”), compared to twelve months earlier. Across major areas, the net gainer score was lowest in Metro Manila at a mediocre -13, followed by the Visayas at fair -1, Mindanao at high +3, while Balance Luzon registered the highest at +4. SWS noted that the 26-point increase in the nationwide net gainer score from March to June 2026 was due to gains in all regions. In both rural and urban areas, net gainers rose from very low to fair in urban areas, increasing by 27 points from -32 to -5, and improved from mediocre to high in rural areas, rising by 23 points from -18 to +5. The score also increased from low to fair among men, up by 25 points from -28 in March 2026 to -3 in June 2026, and from low to high among women, up by 29 points from -25 to +4. Conversely, net gainers tend to decline with age: as of June 2026, it was highest among 18-24-year-olds at excellent +33, followed by 25-34-yearolds at high +9, 35-44-year-olds at fair -9, 45-54-year-olds at mediocre -16, and those 55 and older at mediocre -18. Among educational levels, net gainers increased from very low to mediocre among non-elementary graduates, up by 27 points from -39, while elementary graduates saw a rise of 29 points from -31 to -2.
more sensitive to developments in global markets,” he added. Castro said the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is expected to act decisively when necessary to reduce volatility in the foreign exchange market. The BSP raised its benchmark rate by 25 basis points to five percent last week, its third consecutive rate hike, as it sought to contain inflation risks while supporting the currency. “The recent weakening of the peso was brought about by broad U.S. dollar strength and rising global prices of oil,” Castro said. She added that the national government was working with the economic team to manage the impact of the weaker peso on food, businesses, logistics and other prices. Castro also said the administration had already begun reprioritizing expenditures under its UPLIFT program following the escalation of the Middle East conflict, including cutting non-essential spending and redirecting resources toward sectors affected by higher prices. She stressed that the government should avoid expenditures that do not contribute to economic growth.
“One of the solutions seen by the administration is that the government needs to spend on the right projects,” Castro said. “Funds should not be wasted on just any kind of expenditure.” Castro also said Malacañang has yet to issue a directive ordering government agencies to further trim nonessential spending, following a call by BSP Gov. Eli Remolona Jr. for higher national savings as a long-term solution to the peso’s weakness. Remolona recently said the country should increase its savings, pointing to the Philippines’ consumption-driven economy and external imbalances. Castro said the proposal would still have to be discussed by the economic team. “At present, this will be discussed by the economic team, and once they give us any recommendation, I will relay it to you,” she said. But she reiterated that government agencies must ensure that every peso is spent properly. “ If it does not need to be spent, do not waste the funds,” she added. “Because every centavo saved by the country and the government can be
used properly elsewhere,” she said. Castro said the government was also maintaining measures under UPLIFT to cushion households and businesses from the effects of the Middle East crisis. She cited the administration’s P20per-kilogram rice program for vulnerable Filipinos, zero-balance billing in Department of Health hospitals and selected local government hospitals, and toll-free travel for buses and vehicles transporting agricultural products. These measures, she said, were intended to soften the impact of higher fuel and commodity prices while the government works to sustain economic growth. The government previously estimated that about P155 billion would be needed for UPLIFT interventions, to be sourced from agency savings, realigned allotments and unreleased appropriations. Castro acknowledged that the Philippines remains vulnerable to developments in the Middle East because of its dependence on imported crude oil. She said however, that the government would continue working on measures to support growth while limiting the impact of the crisis on consumers and businesses.
licly expressed respect for the wage board’s decision and the integrity of the wage-setting process. The group likewise urged DOLE to strictly enforce the wage order through labor inspections as directed under Administrative Order No. 264 issued by Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino, warning that failure to act against non-compliant employers would leave workers with no choice but to seek legal remedies. The Supreme Court (SC) has ordered the parties to comment within 10 days on the petition against a lower court’s orders to suspend the implementation of the P85 minimum wage increase in the National Capital Region (NCR). In a statement on Friday, the high tribunal said it had directed respondents Readycon Trading and Construction Corp., R-II Builders Inc., and Alliance of Philippine Fishing Federations Inc. to comment on the petition filed by labor groups led by Kampihan ng Maralita at Manggagawa Party-list.
The workers have asked the SC to set aside the orders issued by the Regional Trial Courts (RTCs) of Pasig City and Navotas City in pending cases filed by respondents challenging Wage Order No. NCR-27, which raised the minimum wage by P85 in Metro Manila. The Pasig City RTC had granted Readycon Trading and R-II Builders’ request for a status quo ante order (SQAO), a temporary restraining order and a writ of preliminary injunction, enjoining the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board of the National Capital Region (RTWPB-NCR) and the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) from implementing the wage hike. Ortiz Luis said that the Supreme Court should ultimately decide questions involving the jurisdiction of the courts. He also acknowledged that some companies, particularly smaller enterprises, are not complying with the wage increase. “90 percent of our enterprises are
micro,” Ortiz Luis said, explaining that many small businesses may take advantage of the uncertainty surrounding the wage order to delay payments. However, he warned companies not to treat the injunction as a permanent exemption from paying the higher wage. “If it is lifted, they deserve to pay back what they didn’t pay,” he said. Ortiz Luis urged employers affected by the injunction to set aside the money they would have spent on the wage increase rather than use it for other expenses. He also warned that companies could face financial difficulties if they are later required to make retroactive payments to workers. At the same time, Ortiz Luis said ECOP has encouraged members who can afford it to comply with the wage increase despite the ongoing legal questions.I kept the original reporting sequence and leads, while removing obvious redundancies and tightening several long sentences.
By Maricel V. Cruz
C
AGAYAN de Oro 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez on Thursday pushed for an additional P30 billion on top of the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) proposed P300.96-billion budget for 2027 to fund critical projects, including the Mindanao Railway Project (MRP).
“We already have a master plan. It’s just never been executed,” the President said during an inspection of flood-damaged bridges in Tarlac on Wednesday. Asked to identify the plan, Castro said the country had flood-control master plans dating back to the 1930s and 1940s, but these were not followed over the decades. She also cited the Aquino-Singson master plan, which was reportedly transmitted during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte, as among the proposals now being reviewed by Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon. “These will be consolidated and reviewed, and they also need to be updated,” Castro said. Castro said the government must consider climate change because plans developed decades ago may no longer be appropriate for the country’s current conditions. “The President also said during the
Raps... From A1 Dato added that 10 informations have now been filed before the RTC against the 15-year-old CICL. For the four counts of frustrated murder, the recommended bail is P72,000 for each count, amounting to a total of P288,000. For the six counts of attempted murder, the bail is P36,000 per
Palace... From A1 concerns that a weaker peso could further raise the cost of imported fuel, food, and other goods, particularly as the country remains exposed to higher global energy prices stemming from the Middle East conflict. Asked for comments, Union Bank of the Philippines chief economist Ruben Carlo Asuncion said fiscal discipline benefits the economy by ensuring that public resources are allocated to projects with the highest economic and social returns. However, he noted that the peso’s near-term movement will likely remain more sensitive to global market developments as its weakness largely reflects external factors. “The recent weakness of the peso largely reflects external factors such as a stronger US dollar, higher oil prices, and global uncertainty,” Asuncion explained. “While sound fiscal management supports long-term economic stability and investor confidence, the peso’s near-term movement will likely remain
ers R-II Builders and Readycon posting a P10-billion bond, which the companies admitted they could not afford. “If there is no bond, there can be no injunction, and therefore no suspension of the wage hike,” TUCP said, adding that more than 1.1 million minimum wage earners in Metro Manila are entitled to receive both the accumulated wage increase since July 25 and the higher daily pay moving forward. The labor group estimated that unpaid wage adjustments have already exceeded P2,000 per worker, or more than P2 billion collectively, and urged employers to settle the amounts due rather than risk labor complaints.
TUCP to ECOP: Direct members to comply with wage order
TUCP also called on the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) to direct its member companies to comply with the wage order, noting that the business group has pub-
He said the proposed railway is already in the “final stages of a pre-feasibility study and is beginning its feasibility study.” The DOTr chief added that an upcoming trip with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. may include discussions with a foreign government about possible funding for the project. “This will be one of the topics with the foreign government so we can find the right funding and finally push through with the MRP,” Lopez said in Filipino. “And it’s about time [that we have a railway in Mindanao],” he added.
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PBBM: Innovations to tackle challenges P By Charles Dantes
RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday called on Filipino innovators to turn their ideas into practical solutions to some of the country’s most urgent problems, including food insecurity, flooding, soil erosion and energy shortages.
FLOOD RESPONSE. NLEX Corporation continues flood response efforts at NLEX San Simon in Pampanga with the Department of Transportation, Department of Public Works and Highways, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Philippine Coast Guard, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Pampanga provincial and local governments.
IN BRIEF Ombudsman dismisses BFP chief, files graft case More than 600 guidance counselors pass board A TOTAL of 614 out of 930 examinees passed the 2026 Guidance Counselors Computer-Based Licensure Examination held in August, posting a passing rate of 66.52%, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) said. The examination was administered by the Board of Guidance and Counseling in the National Capital Region, Baguio, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Koronadal, Lucena, Rosales and Tuguegarao on Aug. 17 and 23. The second day was postponed from Aug. 18 due to bad weather brought by the Habagat. Roenn Khyle Bangit Mangilit of Philippine Normal University-Manila topped the examination with a score of 91.10%. Seven examinees whose identities were not disclosed had their results withheld pending a determination of their liabilities under licensure rules. More than 50 schools posted a 100% passing rate among their first-time and repeat examinees, including Ateneo de Manila University, Ateneo de Zamboanga University, University of the PhilippinesDiliman and Western Mindanao State University. Gabriel Oliva
By Rex Espiritu THE Office of the Ombudsman has filed criminal charges before the Sandiganbayan against former Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Fire Director Jesus Fernandez and a private individual in connection with the procurement of 132 ambulances worth P485 million. The Ombudsman found prima facie evidence with reasonable certainty of conviction to charge Fernandez with two counts of indirect bribery and two counts of violation of Section 3(b) of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
The charges stem from a complaint filed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) following a fact-finding investigation by Task Force BFP Accountability into the procurement of 132 Type 1 basic life support ambulances. The contract was awarded to Toyota Mabolo, which entered into a joint venture with Autozone Prime Distributors Inc. for the project. The designated representative of the joint venture, Rosaverna P. Sangga, also known as Rosaverna Palairon Sangga, was also charged with two counts of corruption of public officials under Article 212 of the Revised Penal Code.
According to the Ombudsman investigation, Fernandez, who was then the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) chairperson, allegedly received a total of P14.752 million from Sangga. “Sangga delivered Ten Million Seven Hundred Fifty-Two Thousand Pesos (Php10,752,000.00) on 21 November 2024, and Four Million Pesos (Php4,000,000.00) on 25 September 2025 to FDir. Fernandez,” the ruling stated. In a separate administrative case arising from the same transaction, the Ombudsman found Fernandez guilty of conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service and grave misconduct.
Manila cop, five others arrested for cable theft SIX individuals, including a Manila policeman, were arrested for burning and stealing PLDT cable wires the other night at Buenos Aires near Pelaez Street in Barangay 570, Zone 56, Sampaloc, Manila. Arrested by Manila Police DistrictStation 3 operatives were PMSg. Junnie Bantanore, 42, of MPD-Station 8, and civilians Michelle de la Cruz, 33; Jayrhold Oquindo, 41; Angelo Salazar, 29; Jessie Sonia, 48; and Reynaldo Sta. Ana, 32. All are residents of Sampaloc. Police said the group stole cable wires along Domingo Santiago Street corner Mindanao Avenue in Barangay 570 at about 2:05 a.m. The suspects were identified following a complaint by PLDT security responder Alnor Datu Ito, 32. PLDT personnel later validated viral CCTV footage showing stolen cable wires and traced two of the suspects. They found Bantanore and two others burning the wires and arrested them. Itchie G. Cabayan
Embassy urges caution, travel insurance in S. Korea THE Philippine Embassy in Seoul on Thursday encouraged Filipinos traveling to South Korea for tourism to buy travel insurance, emphasizing that it can provide protection against medical emergencies, unexpected costs, and other unforeseen issues during their trip. In an advisory, the embassy urged Filipinos to stay cautious throughout their stay and purchase travel insurance for protection against medical emergencies and unexpected expenses. The embassy also advised travelers to follow local laws and regulations, protect their belongings, and take sensible precautions for their health and safety. It frequently issues reminders about travel insurance following cases involving uninsured Filipino tourists who needed emergency surgeries, ambulance services or hospitalization. Such incidents, the embassy said, have resulted in high out-of-pocket expenses for uninsured travelers. Ma. Katrina Mikaela Manubay
LANDSLIDE. The Baguio City Police respond to a landslide at Purok 3, Guisad Surong, where a house sustains minor damage and six residents are affected. All six are evacuated as a precaution and transferred to a temporary evacuation area at a pastor’s house in Purok 4.
President Marcos made the appeal as he recognized five winners of the 2026 Presidential Filipinnovation Awards, stressing that innovation must translate into improvements in the lives of Filipinos and help strengthen the country’s resilience amid rapid technological, environmental and economic changes. “To every innovator across the country: I know that you have come a long way to reach this point. I also know that there is still much to do to turn your ideas into solutions that can improve the lives of our people, our communities, and our nation,” Mr. Marcos said. “I call on each of you to work with the government in addressing modern challenges—from food insecurity and flooding to soil erosion and energy shortages,” he added. The president said the awards should serve as more than recognition for Filipino ingenuity, describing the program as a platform that connects innovators with government, industry stakeholders, investors, and markets that could help bring their technologies into wider use. To help the winners scale up their innovations, President Marcos announced that each awardee would receive P3.5 million in cash, a medallion and plaque, as well as post-competition assistance, including P1 million worth of expert mentorship. The five awardees are Capistrano Research and Development on Bio Technology, which developed a compact and economical biodiesel technology; Golden Sprout Corp., for its scientific innovations involving Philippine native chicken; PDG Engineering Services, for its Saltric Marissa Turbine that uses rivers to generate round-the-clock power for off-grid communities; Vic Metal Fabrication Environmental Services, for its gasification process for waste disposal and other waste-management solutions; and Breath of Life Foundation Inc., for its OstreaVent2 prototype ventilator for mechanically ventilated adult patients. The other 11 finalists will each receive P250,000 to continue developing their innovations. Department of Economy, Planning and Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, vice chairman of the National Innovation Council, said the 16 finalists developed solutions in priority areas including education, health, food and agribusiness, finance, manufacturing, public administration, transportation, energy, and the blue economy and water sector. The finalists went through eligibility screening, technical evaluation, mentoring, live pitching and prototype demonstrations before presenting their innovations to the National Board of Judges. Balisacan said innovation would become increasingly important as the Philippines seeks to sustain its economic gains.
Nationwide school safety drills prepare students for threats By Gabriel Oliva and Vince Lopez AS an alarm reverberated throughout a Philippine high school on Thursday, students scrambled behind locked doors and police swept corridors in a drill aimed at preparing for an attack once unthinkable in the Southeast Asian country. About 3,000 junior and senior high school students at Carlos F. Gonzales High School north of Manila barricaded their classroom
doors with tables and chairs, drew curtains and switched off the lights before crouching under tables. Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the drills were intended to prepare school communities for emergencies, not make them dwell on frightening situations. The DepEd said the initiative also aims to improve coordination during active threats while protecting students’ psychosocial well-being and ensuring learning continuity. The drill began with an emergency alert
over public address systems, followed by calls to the 911 hotline and local police. DepEd said it avoided realistic depictions of violence, including gunshots and actors portraying shooters, to prevent distress among students. Instead, a distinct warning alarm was used to build procedural familiarity. Police, Department of the Interior and Local Government officials and disaster risk reduction personnel evaluated the exercise. DepEd said police operated under
DOH official warns of leptospirosis surge after widespread flooding DR. Marc Steven Capungcol, chief of the Department of Health (DOH) Health Emergency Management Bureau, on Thursday warned of a sharp rise in leptospirosis cases following the heavy habagat rains that triggered widespread flooding in Luzon last month. Capungcol said health authorities are closely tracking the “significant increase” in cases after the recent floods. From Aug. 2 to 29, the DOH recorded a 77-percent rise in cases compared with the preceding two-week period. The DOH Epidemiology Bureau recorded 6,253 cases nationwide from Jan. 1 to Aug. 29, resulting in 378 deaths. Despite the recent increase,
the total is about 12 percent lower than during the same period last year. Metro Manila accounted for 1,961 cases, with Manila and Quezon City reporting the highest cumulative numbers, followed by Caloocan and Taguig. Capungcol said several cities in the capital have repeatedly exceeded their epidemic thresholds, prompting health officials to focus their response on areas with the greatest burden and risk. Health Undersecretary Gloria Balboa urged the public to avoid floodwaters whenever possible. Those who must enter flooded areas should wear protective equipment, including boots and waders.
strict safety protocols, while response teams provided first aid and the school activated reunification procedures. DepEd also implemented post-incident protocols, including Psychological First Aid and learning continuity measures, and mandated physical safety improvements such as controlled visitor entry, secured gates, perimeter inspections and classroom locking or barricading mechanisms. A new School Contingency Plan will also be rolled out nationwide. —With Agence France-Presse REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES COMMISSION ON APPOINTMENTS Twentieth Congress Second Regular Session
ANNOUNCEMENT President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has submitted to the Commission on Appointments (CA), for its consent to the nomination of: Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
SALAKNIB-BALIKATAN.
Philippine Army key leaders, together with counterparts from the U.S. Army Pacific, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, and Australian Army, conclude the two-day Salaknib-Balikatan 2027 Commanders’ Summit at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City on Sept. 2.
COL. REYNALDO D. GABIÑETE to the rank of Brigadier General The public may submit any information, written report, or sworn/notarized complaints or oppositions to the above nomination in seven (7) copies to the CA Secretariat, 11th Floor, Uptown Eastgate Tower I, corner 11th and 36th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. For the schedule of the public hearings, the CA Secretariat can be reached through telephone number 8832-2827 local 2142 to 2144, and local 2512 to 2514. 03 September 2026.
(MS-SEPTEMBER 4, 2026)
MYRA MARIE D. VILLARICA Secretary
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IN BRIEF 614 pass licensure tests for Guidance Counselors A TOTAL of 614 out of 930 examinees passed the 2026 Guidance Counselors Computer-Based Licensure Examinations held last month, posting a passing rate of more than 66.52 percent, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) said. According to the PRC, the tests were held in several areas in the country including the National Capital Region (NCR), Baguio, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Koronadal, Lucena, Rosales and Tuguegarao. The two-day online board exams were initially scheduled on Aug 17 and Aug 18, but were reset to Aug 23. However, the exam results of seven examinees were withheld pending compliance with some requisites. Gabriel Oliva
Cagayan gov’t sponsors 8th Education Summit TUAO, Cagayan—THE provincial government of Cagayan aims to strengthen student safety and holistic development through a multi-sector approach, with the Walk to School Program taking center stage in the 8th Education Summit here. Vice Gov. Manuel Mamba presided at the summit held last Tuesday, organized in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd). The convention sought to consolidate government, education, law enforcement, and community stakeholders in addressing challenges confronting students and the education sector in general. The initiative came on the heels of a nationwide rollout of DepEd’s Enhanced School Safety Program championed by Education Secretary Sonny Angara. Jessica M. Bacud
DILAPIDATED YACHT YIELDS P162-M KUSH. A composite team of government agents led by the Bureau of Customs seizes a huge stock of high-grade marijuana called ‘kush’ worth more than P162 million from a dilapidated yacht berthed at the Subic Bay marina. BOC photo
SC decision defines HOA powers By Gwyneth Nolasco
H
OMEOWNERS associations (HOA) may impose penalties on delinquent members, but these erring residents cannot be deprived of their right to use common facilities such as subdivision roads, according to the Supreme Court (SC).
Two sea turtles rescued in Zambales shorelines THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), along with local government personnel, wildlife responders, and community volunteers in Zambales, have rescued and released two marine turtles amid rough sea conditions due to the southwest monsoon. Edward Sernadilla, head of the DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Olongapo City, said Pawikan Rangers rescued a 13-centimeter juvenile hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) that washed ashore in Barangay La Paz, San Narciso, Zambales. Sernadilla said responders also rescued a 50-centimeter olive ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) that got entangled in a discarded fishing net near the local fish landing area. The turtle sustained deep wounds on its flippers and a chip on its carapace and received treatment and rehabilitation at the PawiCare Conservation Site. Butch Gunio
PNP to heighten drive vs. bogus products online
By Vince Lopez
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday aims to further tighten its intelligence and enforcement efforts against online sellers and cyber networks involved in the distribution of fake and unregulated products that may endanger consumers. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said they will work with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and other partner agencies to identify those behind the illegal trade and build cases for prosecution. “The PNP backs efforts to strengthen the crackdown against counterfeit goods online. We will continue to coordinate with our partner agencies, particularly IPOPHL and the DTI, to identify those behind the illegal trade and ensure that appropriate charges are filed,” Nartatez said. The PNP’s intensified focus comes amid a call from consumer advocacy group Malayang Konsyumer for an immediate and sustained government crackdown on counterfeit products being sold through e-commerce platforms. The group warned that fake medicines, vitamins, health supplements, and beauty products might contain toxic chemicals, while counterfeit clothing, footwear, toys and perfumes are products that could expose consumers to hidden health risks. It also raised concerns over substandard electronics that may cause fires or electrocution, as well as fake household adhesives, sealants and building materials that may pose structural and health hazards.
THROWBACK IN HISTORY. Mayor Alex Advincula, Philippine Red Cross chairman Richard Gordon, Cavite provincial police chief Col. Ariel Red, and Imus police director Lt. Col. Chey Saulog lead the commemoration of the 130th anniversary of the historic Battle of Imus. Dennis Abrina
Church needs more dynamic leaders—Prelate By Vito Barcelo A MEMBER of the influential Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said the Church needed religious leaders who are willing to confront injustice and defend vulnerable communities, rather than simply manage religious institutions. In his pastoral message, Bishop Broderick Pabillo of Taytay issued the challenge to 233 prelates attending the 2nd National Convention of the Conference of Major Superiors in the Philippines, urging them to embrace a more prophetic role in
addressing poverty, violence and threats to human dignity. “The Philippine Church does not need religious leaders who merely manage institutions or maintain the status quo. The Church needs prophets,” Pabillo said. He urged religious superiors to become “the conscience of the Church” by challenging complacency, disrupting comfort and keeping the Church focused on its mission. Pabillo said religious life should be measured not only by how communities proclaim the faith, but also by how they stand with people
whose dignity and livelihoods are threatened. He urged religious communities to remain close to the poor, indigenous people, migrants, the elderlies, and other marginalized sectors. “Where marginalization exists, religious (leaders) must be found — remaining with the vulnerable, defending their dignity, and empowering their voice,” said Pabillo, who also chairs the CBCP office on stewardship. The bishop also called on religious leaders to confront conflicts involving land and natural resources without resorting to violence.
The SC decision released on Wednesday stemmed from a petition to review a Court of Appeals (CA) ruling filed by former directors and officers of La Costa Brava Homeowners’ Association Inc. (LCBHAI). Case records showed that spouses Linley and Juvy Retirado who owned a home at La Costa Brava Subdivision, failed to pay their monthly association dues from 2016 to 2021. LCBHAI subsequently declared them as delinquent members and were imposed sanctions under two board resolutions, which include the denial of access to various community services within the property. The petitioners also imposed additional restrictions on the Retirados, including prohibiting the delivery of food, packages, appliances, gas and other items; preventing taxis, tricycles and ridehailing vehicles from entering the subdivision; banning their guests from entering the subdivision; and imposing delivery fees on trucks and other vehicles bringing supplies and materials to the couple. The spouses challenged the sanctions before the Human Settlements Adjudication Commission (HSAC), which ruled that the association had violated Republic Act No. 9904, or the Magna Carta for Homeowners and Homeowners’ Associations. The HSAC also ordered the petitioners permanently disqualified from holding any position in a homeowners’ association. The association officers appealed to the CA, but their petition was dismissed due to “defective service” of their first resolution. The court later affirmed the ruling in a second resolution. The case was eventually elevated to the SC, which upheld the HSAC ruling on the sanctions. The highest court also dismissed the petition, finding that the CA did not commit grave abuse of discretion in resolving the case.
Two Chinese nationals get life in jail for P2-m shabu smuggling By Gwyneth Nolasco TWO Chinese nationals were sentenced to life imprisonment and fined P2 million each for importing about 240 kilograms of shabu, or methamphetamine hydrochloride, the Department of Justice disclosed on Wednesday. The Pasay City Regional Trial Court Branch 116 issued the ruling on Aug. 25, finding the two aliens guilty of violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which penalizes the importation of dangerous drugs and controlled substances. Court records showed that the accused were recipients of a shipment of workbench tables from Malaysia that arrived in October 2020 at the Philippine Skylander Inc. International Cargo Terminal at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Complex in Pasay City. The Bureau of Customs examined the shipment and found suspicious sub-
stances concealed in 12 plastic bags. The substances were later identified as shabu. Acting on the BOC report and a tip from a consignee who was supposed to deliver the shipment to Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency conducted an entrapment operation during which the two accused received the contraband. The court found the accused guilty of illegal drug importation and conspiracy, ruling that the integrity of the chain of custody of the seized drugs had been established. The evidence presented by the prosecution proved their guilt beyond reasonable doubt, according to the DOJ. DOJ Secretary Fredderick Vida said the agency would not tolerate the distribution of illegal drugs in the Philippines. “May this serve as a warning to the world that the Philippines is no haven for illegal drugs, especially in this Bagong Pilipinas era where the rule of law prevails at all times,” Vida said.
BOOK LAUNCH. The Army’s 5th Infantry ‘Star’ Division launches its new book recalling the surrender of the infamous Japanese Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita in the mountains of Kiangan, Ifugao province that signaled the end of the Japanese martial occupation of the Philippines. Present at the event are Kiangan Mayor Raldis Andrei Bulayungan, Ifugao Gov. Jerry Dalipog , Philippine Veterans Affairs Office administrator Reynaldo Mapagu, and Veterans Federation of the Philippines president retired Maj. Gen. Romeo Alamillo. Jessica M. Bacud
OPINION
A5
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026
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EDITORIAL
Landmark PH-Japan military agreement
Is the nuclear option now a viable proposition? IN his 2026 State of the Nation Address, President Marcos Jr. said he would revisit nuclear energy toward diversifying the Philippines’ energy mix amid high electricity costs and reliance on fossil fuels. This is a groundbreaking statement because it marks the strongest endorsement of nuclear power since the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) was mothballed. This policy shift takes off from a failed past experiment into a cornerstone of long-term energy security and economic growth. The BNPP was built in Bataan province in the 1970s-80s under Ferdinand Marcos Sr., but it never operated due to safety concerns, corruption scandals, and fears of a Chernobyl-type disaster. The BNPP thus became a symbol of wasted resources and mistrust in nuclear energy. But revisiting nuclear power does not necessarily mean reopening BNPP. In fact, Bataan’s own governor recently said the province is no longer necessarily the ideal location for a nuclear facility, although he supports nuclear energy in principle. President Marcos Jr.’s SONA statement directly positions nuclear power as a modern, safe, and necessary option. Current energy challenges make the nuclear option definitely an enticing one. We have the highest electricity rates in Southeast Asia: ₱12.43 per kWh as of June 2026. We have a heavy reliance on fossil fuels such as coal, comprising 60 percent of power mix, and natural gas, at 18 percent. These leave the country vulnerable to global price shocks. We also suffer from another form of energy insecurity. The Strait of Hormuz crisis earlier this year disrupted oil supplies, highlighting the risks of dependence on imported fuel. For the Marcos Jr. administration that wants the country to enjoy energy security, nuclear power is presented as a stable baseload source to reduce dependence on volatile fossil fuel markets. Then, there’s the matter of economic relief. Lower electricity costs offer relief, appealing to households and industries perennially burdened by high rates. Besides, the Marcos Jr. administration has emphasized that nuclear facilities would be “safe” and that public education campaigns would explain benefits clearly. The Marcos Jr. administration says roughly 200 generation projects totaling about 10,000 MW are expected to be completed by the end of its term, alongside about 1,700 MW from energy-storage projects. But solar and wind, while essential, are intermittent. Nuclear energy’s advantage is that it can provide large amounts of continuous, low-carbon baseload electricity. That makes it potentially complementary to renewables.
The Department of Energy (DOE) has already identified sites of potential nuclear plant locations in Bataan, Pangasinan, Camarines Norte, Palawan, and Masbate. As far as timeline is concerned, commercial nuclear plants are targeted by 2032 (1,200 MW), scaling to 4,800 MW by 2050. What is the significance of the Marcos Jr. administration’s nuclear energy plans compared to the BNPP’s failed promise?
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The government should overcome public mistrust, ensure safety, and deliver results by the next decade. The BNPP was completed in the 1980s but it has not produce a single watt of electricity since then. Now, it stands as a forlorn symbol of safety fears, corruption and public distrust. The nuclear option is now considered safe and globally proven technology and a cornerstone of energy security and economic growth. Moreover, with government promises of transparency, strict regulation, public education, and targeted rollout by 2032 with clear megawatt goals, the benefits are obvious. But there are risks and challenges. One is public opposition because of lingering distrust from BNPP history that may fuel widespread protests. Safety concerns from earthquake and volcanic risks in the Philippines raise questions about plant resilience. Nuclear power plants also require strong independent oversight and a skilled workforce. And nuclear projects are capital-intensive, raising concerns about debt and foreign dependence. The technology available today has advanced by leaps and bounds since BNPP was designed in the 1970s. Small modular reactors (SMRs) and newer reactor designs could eventually give the Philippines alternatives to constructing another huge conventional plant. Marcos Jr.’s nuclear energy statement is timely because it reopens a debate long considered politically controversial. It marks a turning point: nuclear energy is no longer dismissed as a failed experiment but is now embraced as a strategic solution to high electricity costs, fossil fuel dependence, and energy insecurity. The challenge, however, will be whether his administration can overcome public mistrust, ensure safety, and deliver results by the next decade. ernhil@yahoo.com
Notes on a night of melodies and OPM magic COLORADO SPRINGS — Stepping away from the relentless cycle of the Manila Standard opinion page and the weight of global news dispatches, we found ourselves in a different kind of newsroom last weekend. The venue was Sunshine Studios in this city. The beat was pure, unadulterated nostalgia. Watching fellow Filipinos halfway across the world rally for a cause back home reminds a newsroom editor that our finest deadlines are often written in the language of community. The occasion was the Melodies of Hope concert, a two-hour musical marathon dedicated to the underprivileged children of Cavite in the Philippines. For an overseas crowd, distance usually sharpens the longing for home. On this night, longing was beautifully answered. The evening, under an almost clear Colorado sky, was a masterclass in Pinoy showmanship and collective generosity, proving that our people got great guns when called to uplift their compatriots. The lineup felt like a curated anthology of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) history. Jam Morales, flying from New Mexico where she manages Jam’s Voice Studio, effortlessly revived the romance of the 1980s, her vocals remained as crisp as the air of the nearby Pikes Peak mountain range. And when she sang ‘A Smile In Your heart’ we ourselves were immediately flown back to the 7th MetroPop music festival in 1984, when a young Jam won the grand championship in the amateur
division with the Rene Novalles-composed song which had themes of enduring love, devotion, and finding security in a partner. And we immediately found ourselves an audience to a nine-year-old-grader Paulinian, Hermione Mary Anne, who was singing Jam’s song every so often until she became part of the UST Singers while pursuing her medical course.
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Every familiar chorus sung in unison was a declaration of identity. Carol Banawa, a nurse-practitioner, journeyed from Virginia, her angelic cadence instantly transporting the audience back to the golden era of teleserye anthems. Leaving her healthcare professional hat back home, she sang Filipino classics, her signature song, and her favorites while deeply connecting with the audience with her own stories. Then came the eternal matinee idol, Gabby Concepcion, who flew all the way from Hawaii. He did not just perform; he dismantled the barrier between stage and spectator. With trademark charisma, Concepcion was joined by ecstatic audience members onstage to sing and dance alongside him including ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ to the 1-2, 1-2-3 cha-cha beat.
I
T is true that two sparks make a flame.
The Philippines and Japan recently welcomed a mutual defense pact: the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) signed on January 15 this year but which entered into force only on August 22. The defense agreement is significant not because it creates a military alliance comparable to the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States way back in the 1950s, but because it gives the rapidly expanding security relationship between Manila and Tokyo a practical logistical backbone. ACSA allows the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Japan’s SelfDefense Forces to provide each other supplies and services under agreed procedures. The most important feature of the ACSA is that it moves Philippine-Japanese defense cooperation from political declarations to operational capability. Military cooperation is difficult if forces cannot easily obtain fuel, food, transportation, maintenance and other logistical support from one another. The ACSA establishes the rules for doing precisely that. In practical terms, Japanese and Philippine forces participating in exercises, maritime activities or humanitar-
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Partnership multiplies perspective.
ACSA is particularly important when viewed alongside the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), which entered into force in September 2025. The RAA established the legal framework for Japanese forces to conduct activities in the Philippines and Philippine forces to operate in Japan. The ACSA now provides much of the logistical machinery needed to make those activities work efficiently. Although neither Manila nor Tokyo describes the agreement as being directed against China, the strategic context is unmistakable. The Philippines occupies a critical position between the South China Sea and the Western Pacific, while Japan faces China’s expanding military presence around the East China Sea and Taiwan. Consequently, both countries have a strong interest in maintaining freedom of navigation and a rules-
THE sub judice rule protects the administration of justice. Its name is Latin for “under judicial consideration.” It restricts public comment on matters pending before courts. The rule guards courts from prejudicial outside influence. It preserves judicial independence during live proceedings. It also sustains public confidence in fair adjudication. Courts should weigh evidence and law alone. Public opinion should stay outside pending cases. No single provision of the Rules of Court states it. The doctrine grew through Supreme Court jurisprudence instead. It links closely to the power over contempt. Improper conduct may obstruct or degrade justice. Rule 71, Section 3(d) supplies the textual anchor. It defines indirect contempt in these terms. Statements that impede justice may fall within it. The rule keeps rulings tied to record evidence. It resists media pressure and political influence. It resists prejudicial publicity around sensitive trials. Fair proceedings depend on this protective distance. The doctrine therefore serves orderly justice. Nestlé Philippines v. Sanchez affirmed this principle. The Court shielded itself from extraneous influence. Decisions must rest on evidence and law. Bias, sympathy, and pressure hold no place. Lejano v. People concerned the Vizconde massacre. That litigation drew heavy public attention. The Court weighed publicity against criminal justice. Public commentary may affect a criminal trial. Comments on the merits can prejudice outcomes. Premature verdicts on guilt raise contempt concerns. Premature verdicts on innocence raise them too. Such interference threatens the judicial process. Republic v. Sereno examined the free speech tension. The Court honored open discussion of cases. It also protected the fairness of adjudication. These interests required careful reconciliation. The public and media may discuss pending cases. That liberty carries a clear boundary. Speech creating serious danger to justice loses shelter.
ABS-CBN Corporation v. Ampatuan, Jr. mapped the scope. The rule reaches the credibility of witnesses. It reaches the evaluation of presented evidence. It reaches the merits still under determination. Ordinary and fair reporting stays generally permissible. The rule is therefore no blanket prohibition. It balances speech against orderly adjudication. Its aim is preventing influence and interference. Courts may then decide by law and evidence.
On August 26, 2026, Senator Chiz Escudero, as Presiding Officer of the impeachment trial, enforced Rule 18 prospectively. The order governs comment on the impeachment trial. It applies going forward from that ruling. It binds the senator-judges and the prosecutors. It binds the impeached official and her counsel. It binds the witnesses as well. Should impeachment mirror the strictness of courts? The stronger view answers no. Impeachment is a sui generis constitutional process. It carries both legal and political features. Legal rules, evidence, and due process apply. Constitutional standards guide the entire proceeding. Ordinary trials shield judges from outside influence. Strict application secures that protection there. Impeachment answers a different constitutional need. Elected members of Congress conduct these proceedings. The Senate then acts as an impeachment court. The public may learn the evidence presented. The public may follow testimony and argument. The conduct of the trial invites scrutiny.
This interest reflects genuine public accountability. Overbroad limits would silence legitimate debate. They could function as a general gag order. That result would harm democratic oversight. Sub judice still retains real force here. The Senate rules restrict comment on merits. Those limits protect the trial’s integrity. Restrictions reach statements that prejudge the respondent. They reach efforts to sway the senator-judges. They reach attempts to intimidate the witnesses. Good-faith reporting stays outside these limits. Proportionate enforcement therefore suits impeachment best. The rule now strays beyond its purpose. Some bodies invoke it against creative works. Films touching pending cases face review demands. That reach deserves close constitutional scrutiny. The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) reviews films touching pending cases. It has invoked sub judice against such films. It fears prejudice to ongoing court proceedings. No real sub judice concern arises there. Our judges resist public opinion and coverage. They rule on record evidence and law. The public holds a right to know. Artists enjoy preferred protection for expressive speech. Both settings show the same overreach. The rule guards trials from prejudicial pressure. It should never smother legitimate expression. Careful limits serve justice far better. Impeachment blends legal and political accountability. Its openness serves the watching public. Strict courtroom rules fit it poorly. The doctrine must respect competing constitutional values. It must weigh transparency and public accountability. It must weigh speech and a free press. It must weigh the integrity of adjudication. Context should guide each application carefully. So proportionate application fits these settings best. Mechanical strictness would distort their true purpose. Sub judice should protect fairness alone. That balance honors law and public accountability.
The room, which accommodated about 250, dissolved into a joyous, chaotic living room party. As a journalist trained to observe, we saw more than just a pop concert. We saw a living bridge to the homeland. Every familiar chorus sung in unison was a declaration of identity. Every dollar
raised was a lifeline extended to vulnerable children in Cavite, which adjoins the national capital. It was a vivid reminder that no matter how far we scatter, the Filipino heart remains tethered to home. Special thanks must go to the producers, Aces of the Rockies Productions, who
are staunch and dedicated stewards of Filipino artistry here in Colorado. They orchestrated a seamless night of melodies for an incredibly good cause. They gave a vacationing newsroom editor a profound front-page story on Pinoy unity, scored to the beautiful soundtrack of our youth.
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The rule guards trials from prejudicial pressure. It should never smother legitimate expression.
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based regional order. The agreement therefore strengthens deterrence. It tells potential adversaries that the Philippines is becoming increasingly connected not merely to the United States, but also to Japan and other security partners. This is especially important for us because our military is still in the process of transforming from a previous focus on internal security into one capable of external territorial defense. The ACSA should likewise be seen as part of a much larger PhilippinesJapan security partnership. Japan has provided defense-related assistance to the Philippines, including maritime capacity-building, while the two countries are now discussing protection of classified military information. Our defense ministers have also emphasized greater equipment and technology cooperation. That suggests the relationship could eventually involve intelligence sharing, advanced equipment, maritime surveillance and greater interoperability, rather than simply occasional military exercises. The ACSA may look like a technical logistics agreement, but strategically it represents another important step in our country’s shift toward credible external defense and in Japan’s emergence as one of our most important security partners. Indeed, partnership multiplies perspective.
Misapplication of the sub judice rule
Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno
Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone numbers 8-5646225 and 8-5646229 (connecting all departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, (Advertising) 832-5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www.manilastandard.net
ian operations can support one another more efficiently. Philippine defense officials have described it as a logistical foundation for joint training, operations and disaster response.
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026
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UP IN THE AIR.
Hot air balloons are seen during the hot air balloon Fiesta in Hradec Kralove City, Czech Republic. AFP
IN BRIEF El Nino to be ‘very strong,’ last until February – UN GENEVA – El Nino is set to become “very strong” in the months ahead, with the weather phenomenon near certain to persist through February, the United Nations’ climate agency warned Thursday. The World Meteorological Organization said El Nino would peak towards the end of this year – though its knock-on impacts for the climate will continue well into 2027. “El Nino is firmly established and will intensify into a very strong event in the coming months, with big impacts on rainfall and temperature patterns and associated risks of floods, drought and extreme heat,” the WMO said. AFP
US, Australia defense chiefs agree to boost cooperation SYDNEY – Washington and Canberra agreed to boost the US military presence in Australia and speed up cooperation, both countries said. Wary of China’s unprecedented military build-up, US ally Australia has reshaped its defense force in recent years to focus on its missile strike capability and deterring would-be foes from its northern approaches. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Canberra understood “the gravity of maintaining a favorable balance of power in the region” as he met with his Australian counterpart Richard Marles in Washington on Wednesday. The two “agreed to accelerate force posture initiatives at Australian bases, bolster cooperation in combined logistics, and build greater interoperability through joint exercises,” a joint statement said. AFP
Taiwan monitoring China Coast Guard off east coast TAIPEI – Taiwan’s coast guard said Thursday it has deployed vessels to “monitor” Chinese ships operating in waters to the east of the island democracy. China claims Taiwan is part of its territory and also asserts jurisdiction over the waters around the island, which Taipei rejects. Taiwan’s Coast Guard Administration (CGA) said it dispatched vessels in response to a China Coast Guard announcement that it had carried out another “routine law-enforcement patrol” in waters off Taiwan’s east coast. “The CGA firmly rejects China’s cognitive warfare campaign of ‘law enforcement in name, jurisdictional expansion in practice’,” the Taiwanese coast guard said a statement published on X. AFP
Judge blocks new Trump bid against birthright citizenship W
ASHINGTON – A US federal judge blocked the Trump administration from enforcing a new executive order limiting who qualifies for birthright citizenship. The move thwarts President Donald Trump’s latest attempt to restrict the constitutional right, which comes after the US Supreme Court rejected his previous effort. US District Judge Deborah Boardman of Maryland issued a preliminary injunction following an appeal by rights groups who challenged
Trump’s executive order from August 6 targeting what he termed “birth tourism.” “The Supreme Court has spoken: Children in the certified class are ‘citizens at birth’,” Boardman wrote in her 35-page ruling, adding the president’s August order “is almost certainly unconstitutional.”
Immigrant rights groups cheered the decision. “When it comes to attacking birthright citizenship, the Trump administration has lost before this court, lost before the Supreme Court, and lost again today,” said Shana Khader, Legal Director at We Are CASA, a Maryland-based group. Trump’s fresh executive order was aimed at those who he alleges enter the country under the guise of tourism while actually intending to give birth. In his first executive order on the issue, Trump said that children born to parents in the United States illegally
or on temporary visas would not automatically become US citizens. Lower courts blocked that move, ruling that under the Citizenship Clause of the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution, nearly everyone born on US soil is an American citizen. The Supreme Court agreed. The president’s efforts to curb birthright citizenship are part of his wider campaign to limit immigration, which includes expelling millions of undocumented migrants and removing deportation protections from nationals of more than a dozen countries. AFP
Iran attacks US military bases despite Trump’s fresh threats
DELUGE. This aerial photo shows floods in Qianchuan, China’s Central Jiangxi province. AFP
TEHRAN – Iran attacked US military bases in Kuwait on Thursday, despite President Donald Trump threatening further strikes in a fresh flare-up six months into the war. Trump said his military was prepared to attack Iran “any time we want” after extensive US bombardment of sites across the country left at least 19 Iranians dead. Tehran retaliated by hitting US military targets across the Middle East, including in Kuwait, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Iraq’s autonomous Kurdistan region. The clashes deepen the ongoing impasse in the war, as Iran maintains a stranglehold on the Strait of Hormuz oil export route and the US presses its counter-blockade of Iranian ports. Security chief Mohsen Rezaei warned the United States that Iran had adopted a “new strategy” in the war that “will shatter your foundations.” Kuwait’s army said Thursday it was intercepting a missile and drone attack from
Nepal seeks climate justice after disaster KATHMANDU – When a wall of icy debris from a glacial collapse on the China-Nepal border tore through his village last week, Pemba Chhring Tamang watched the landscape he had known all his life disappear. “The flood was one like I had never seen before,” said the 57-year-old, rescued from his Himalayan village in Nepal’s devastated Rasuwa district. “It destroyed everything, our homes, our village.” The August 26 disaster, one of Nepal’s worst climate-linked catastrophes, brought grief but also anger. “What has Nepal done to deserve this?” asked Tashi Lhazom, a Nepali climate activist and politician. “It is among the most climate-vulnerable countries, but at the same time, it is
also the most climate-friendly.” The huge wave of debris killed more than 1,200 people and left more than 4,750 missing in Nepal and China’s Tibet region, smashing towns, roads, bridges and multiple hydropower dams. Rescuers are still searching for survivors and the dead, while helicopters ferry food and medicine to those left with nothing. While the exact cause of the glacial collapse is unclear, climate change is causing glaciers to melt worldwide, heightening the risk of such disasters. “We have been hearing news about climate change, and there have been floods before – but never like this,” said Tamang, speaking to AFP in Kathmandu. AFP
Iran, with Iranian state TV confirming that Tehran was targeting US bases in the Gulf state “in response to America’s crimes against the Iranian people.” The latest round of fighting began when Washington hit Iranian targets on Sunday, the first known strikes in several weeks, saying it was trying to stop Tehran placing sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran said Sunday’s strikes resulted in “casualties” and responded by targeting US troops in Jordan and the United Arab Emirates. Projectiles also struck two oil tankers in unclaimed attacks, one of which killed two Filipino sailors, according to a Saudi shipping company. Aside from military action, Washington has vowed to choke Iran’s economy, threatening to slap sanctions on its trade partners. Energy Secretary Chris Wright pledged on Wednesday that a US plan for expanded sanctions targeting the Islamic republic’s economic partners would deliver “absolutely maximum pressure.” AFP
Thai ‘Jurassic Park’ shines light on dinosaur evolution
PREHISTORIC BEASTS. Students visit the Paleontological Research and Education Centre at Mahasarakham University in Thailand. Researchers have found a trove of dinosaur fossils in Khon Kaeon
Khon Kaen, Thailand – A dinosaur statue stands guard outside a temple, a hint at the ancient giants buried deep in the earth below making up northeastern Thailand’s “dinosaur rush.” Researchers have found a trove of dinosaur fossils across the region, which holds the country’s richest deposits, offering insight into the creatures that roamed the planet millions of years ago. Prehistoric specimens from the region’s sun-baked soil were identified this year as two new species -- Southeast Asia’s largest dinosaur Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis and the long-necked Uragasaurus kalasinensis. They are the latest discoveries in a series that researchers at Mahasarakham University – which leads the field – hope will result in Thailand’s 16th species within months. AFP
SPORTS
A7
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026
Abra tackles HK Eastern in EASL season opener
The Gilas Pilipinas squad during a training session for the Asian Games Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas
All-PBA Gilas finds natural chemistry ahead of Asiad By Jeremiah Sevilla
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OBERT Bolick sees the natural chemistry within the allPBA Gilas Pilipinas squad as one of its biggest strengths when it goes to defend its men’s basketball title in the 2026 Asian Games. “Parang hindi siya pilitan na samahan eh. Parang natural lang talaga na medyo maganda lang ‘yung timpla sa lahat ng grupo,” Bolick said during an online presser on Thursday as Gilas gets its preparations going in South Korea that include two tune-up games against the Korean national squad. “Pare-pareho kaming makukulit. Pero pagdating sa laro, pare-pareho kaming focused,” the NLEX star guard stressed. Bolick is embracing a veteran role within the national team. After being the youngest member of Gilas back in the FIBA World
Cup 2019, the 30-year-old playmaker now finds himself among the veterans alongside 34-year-old Don Trollano. “Masaya ako na meron din akong natututunan sa kanila and hopefully may matutunan sila sa akin,” he said. Bolick was also part of the Philippines’ gold medal-winning team in the 2025 Southeast Asian Games, where Gilas played without a naturalized player. With the Asian Games squad highly likely to go without Justin Brownlee or any other naturalized standout, Bolick hopes they can repeat that success.
“Masaya siyempre nung SEA Games namin wala kaming import tapos wala expectation na mag-gold kami. Ngayon wala na namang import. Baka swerte na naman kami. So hopefully, makuha namin ‘yung gold,” the pride of Leyte said. “But at the same time, siyempre magagaling ‘tong makasama ko so lahat ang expectation namin mag-gold din. So ‘pag pare-pareho kami ng mindset, mas madali namin ma-accomplish ‘yun,” he added. While the three-time PBA All-Star would welcome another opportunity to suit up for Gilas in FIBA-sanctioned tournaments, he is focused on the Asian Games squad for now. “Honored pa rin kami na part kami sa group dito,” he said. “Hopefully, ’yung iba sa mga teammates ko matawag din, marecognize din ‘yung hard work nila.” “Hindi ko alam kung mangyayari ‘yun (FIBA call-up), pero kung mangyari, siyempre masaya ako.”
Fil-Am Ramos cleared to represent PH in world wrestling
Matthew James Ramos at the top of the podium Sports Corner PH
the United States NCAA Division I, establishing himself as one of the most successful wrestlers in the program’s history. Wrestling in the 125-pound weight class, Ramos finished his collegiate career with a 115-26 record, an .816 winning percentage that ranks among Purdue’s best. He was a two-time NCAA All-American, finishing runnerup at the 2023 NCAA Championships before placing fourth in the 2025 edition.
Nothing much as of the moment
GOT the chance to reconnect with Patrick Deyto several weeks after he announced his retirement from national team duties. Deyto, who was a fixture of the Philippine Men’s National Football Team for more than a decade, 13 years to be exact, is at peace with his decision to leave the national team. “It’s time to give the young ones the opportunity to play for the team. And it is the right decision to make. No regrets,” he says. Deyto says he will not be playing in Kaya FC Iloilo’s first game in the new season of the Philippines Football League this weekend because of health reasons, not because of a serious injury or COVID. “Normal lang,” he joked, saying that he’s been sick with flu-like symptoms in the last few days. Deyto also maintains that he is happy to play for Kaya this season despite having offers to play outside the country once more. “There are at least offers from newly promoted sides in the Thai League 1, but I have to turn them down. Kasi kung babalik ulit ako sa Thailand, mami-miss ko family
MPBL Founder and Chairman Manny Pacquiao with EASL CEO Henry Kerins (right) and MPBL Commissioner Emmer Oreta.
PVL, Spikers’ Turf begin in Cebu City
By Randy M. Caluag FILIPINO-AMERICAN wrestler Matthew James Ramos can now officially represent the Philippines in international competition after Republic Act No. 12324, granting him Philippine citizenship, became law. The new law opens the door for the accomplished US NCAA standout to compete under the Philippine flag in future major international events, including the Asian Games and other world-level competitions. Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Senate Committee on Sports, authored the measure, saying that Filipino athletes who are willing to dedicate their talent and skills to bringing honor to the country deserve the government’s full support. Ramos, a Filipino-American wrestler from Naperville, Illinois, built an impressive career in both folkstyle and freestyle wrestling. The 25-year-old competed for the Purdue Boilermakers in
THE Abra Weavers showcase the MPBL’s style of play on the international stage as they tangle with Hong Kong Eastern on Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. in the East Asia Super League (EASL) 2026-27 Season opener at the 16,000-capacity SM Seaside Cebu Arena in Cebu City. This marks the first time that the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League will represent the country in the tournament featuring the region’s champion teams. The Weavers, the reigning titlists and owners of the best record (212) in the ongoing SportsPlus MPBL 2026 Season elimination round, should be no pushovers if they avail of the four imports, including an Asian heritage and a naturalized player, allowed each EASL team. “The Abra Weavers have earned this opportunity through their championship season, and I couldn’t think of a better way to introduce them to Asia than by opening the EASL season in front of Filipino basketball fans,” said MPBL Founder and Chairman Manny Pacquiao. “This is another proud milestone for the MPBL and Philippine basketball, and we’re excited to see Abra represent our league on the regional stage.” Reigning MPBL MVP Dave Ildefonso, Fil-Am DJ Fenner, 2025 Rookie of the Year Raven Gonzales, Jake Figueroa, Tucker Molina, Mike Ayonayon and Encho Serrano will power the Weavers. MPBL Commissioner Emmer Oreta believes the MPBL-EASL strategic partnership announced on August 19 will augur well for the country’s biggest regional cage league. “We’re excited to partner with EASL. This is a big step for MPBL. More importantly, it gives us the chance to compete against some of the best in Asia. That experience will help raise the level of our players, teams, and the league while giving MPBL greater exposure internationally,” said Oreta. “Hopefully, this is just the beginning of MPBL making its mark on the international stage.” Henry Kerins, CEO of EASL, envisions a more successful season with new elite teams in tow. “This season represents another significant step forward for EASL,” said Kerins. “Our next level vision is about raising the standard in every aspect of our league – from the quality of competition and fan experience to our storytelling and production. Launching the season in Cebu with four outstanding clubs, in a brand new arena, is the perfect way to begin our biggest and most exciting season yet.”
at mga friends ko. Ok naman kami ngayon,” he explained. He also added that the teams that wanted to recruit him are based in provinces outside Bangkok, making it more difficult for him to leave his wife Natasha and daughter Yara. He is not, however, completely turning his back on the national team. He says he will continue to watch the team on the sidelines and is willing to help, at least, the new generation of goalkeepers that will man the woodwork in future tournaments. Offhand, he has some advice for those who will carry the sun and three stars on their chests. “Be patient, be passionate and work hard for the national team. It will not always be a good time playing for the country, hindi lang puro masasaya, marami rin mahihirap na pagkakataon. One should always be ready once you are called to play,” he said. Deyto also added that as early as now, he is already preparing for the next chapter of his life once he retires completely from football. He said that it is inevitable, but somehow, he will be ready once it comes to finally hang up his cleats. “I still have my Business Management Degree to rely on once my football days are over,” he added. Good luck, Pat! I’m sure that you will always be ready on whichever path you
will eventually take. Thank you for your service to the national team and for being a good person on and off the pitch. Speaking of the pitch, the squad list of the Philippine Women’s National Football Team for the upcoming 20th Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games in Japan was released a few days ago. Despite the Asiad schedule, which will run from September 19 until October 4, 2026, not falling on the FIFA window, the Filipinas will be fielding a team composed of veterans and upcoming players who are not totally inexperienced when it comes to international competitions. It is also safe to hope that the team is capable of matching, if not improving on its previous trip to the Asian Games. The Filipinas reached the quarterfinals in the Hangzhou Asian Games four years ago before losing to eventual champion Japan in the last 8. The Filipinas will have to go through three-time champions China, Uzbekistan and Hong Kong in Group G in order to get to the knockout stage. More than a stint in the quarterfinals, the Filipinas will be using the Asian Games as part of their preparations for the bigger challenge of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. It will also give Coach Mark Torcaso a glimpse of who will eventually join the team as the Filipinas return to women’s football’s biggest event next year. The players include Liv McDaniel, Nina Meolo, Gabby Rourke, Hali Long, Kaya Hawkinson, Azumi Oka, comebacking Reina Bonta, Aiselyn Sia, Sofia Wunsch,
SPORTS Vision Management Group, Inc. (SVMGI) is taking the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) and Spikers’ Turf to the Queen City of the South for a milestone launch, with the newly opened SM Seaside Cebu Arena set to host the grand opening of the two leagues’ landmark 10th season on Oct. 10. The Cebu celebration will feature a blockbuster triple-header, highlighted by two PVL matches. Choco Mucho and Capital1 will kick off festivities at 1 p.m., followed by the CreamlineAkari clash at 6 p.m. Sports Vision’s staging of its season launch outside Metro Manila underscores Cebu’s growing stature as one of the country’s premier volleyball hubs. Organizers are expecting the highprofile opening to draw a record crowd and set the tone for another major year of Philippine volleyball. The Cebu launch is particularly fitting as the PVL and Spikers’ Turf celebrate their 10th season, a milestone that reflects the sustained growth of both
leagues and the sport’s expanding reach across the country. Preparations are already underway for what Sports Vision hopes will be a marquee event at the SM Seaside Cebu Arena, which broke ground in 2021 and officially opened to the public last July. The decision to bring the seasonopening festivities to Cebu highlights the province’s deep volleyball roots and its continuing contribution to the development of the sport. Cebu has long been a hotbed of volleyball talent, producing established stars, promising young players and a steady stream of athletes who have made their mark in both the PVL and Spikers’ Turf. Among the prominent PVL players with Cebuano roots are Choco Mucho’s Sisi Rondina of Compostela, Cebu; Deanna Wong of Minglanilla; and Isa Molde of Catmon. Also hailing from Cebu are Farm Fresh players Lorene Toring and Pierre Abellana, Nxled’s Krich Macaslang and PLDT’s Shiela Kiseo, among others.
Jourdyn Curran, Isabella Passion, Jaclyn Sawicki, Katrina Guillou, Tea Pidding, Carleigh Frilles, Camryn Penn, Skye Leach. Megan Murray, Mallie Ramirez, Dionesa Tolentin, Natalie Collins, Angie Beard and Alex Carpio. The Filipinas will open their Asian Games bid in 10 days against Uzbekistan at 1 p.m. (PST), Hong Kong on the 17th at 6 p.m. (PST) and against China on September 21 at 3 p.m. (PST). From what The Designated Hit Man has heard, the Filipinas will be arriving in the country in the next few days to hold a camp before going to Japan. But then again, this has to be confirmed first. The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has yet to release any announcement on the actual preparation of the PWNFT with regard to the AichiNagoya Asian Games as of yesterday. There is also no confirmation yet on the actual composition of the U-23 team that will also compete in the Asian Games. After more than five decades of absence, the Philippines makes a return to men’s football in the quadrennial games. The team, however, is expected to encounter tough opponents as they battle perennial tormentor Vietnam, Kuwait and Uzbekistan (again!) in Group C. It is reported that the U-23 team has been in camp since last week, but no official line-up has yet been released by the PFF despite several reports that claim to have the latest information on the supposed national team call-ups. No news also on the team’s actual preparations for the Asian Games; just
hoping that it will have a better fortune than the team that competed in the 2026 AFF Hyundai Cup several weeks ago. On a personal note, hostilities are heating up in the Paranaque Basketball League as action continues at the new Paranaque Coliseum. As of yesterday afternoon, the San Dionisio Sulong remain on top of the leaderboard in District 1 with an unblemished 6-0 win-loss slate. The Baclaran Altas are in second with a 2-0 card. Pundits are betting that the Sulong and Altas will be the ones advancing in the crossover semifinals once the single robin elimination round settles. As early as now, bets are being called in the much-awaited showdown between San Dionisio and Baclaran. In District 2, the Alab Don Bosco and the San Antonio All Stars are currently sharing the leaderboard with identical 4-0 records. And if they keep on winning, odds are that they will be the teams that will advance to the next round. The teams, though, are set to battle for the solo lead and perhaps the bragging rights on September 10. Don’t tell this, however, to Arangkada BF Atletas, Moonwalk Vanguards and Sun Valley Taurus, which remain in contention for a semis bid in case Alab and the All Stars encounter major hiccups in the remainder of the elimination round. All games are being played at the Paranaque Coliseum. Tickets are free. Stay safe. Stay happy peeps! For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_ cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account on X (formerly Twitter): @erelcabatbat
SPORTS
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
The Creamline Cool Smashers jubilate after turning back the Farm Fresh in a marathon 5-setter.
Galanza, Minowa build wall as Cool Smashers crush Foxies in 5 sets Games Friday 1:30 p.m. – PLDT vs Farm Fresh 4 p.m. – Nxled vs Ho Chi Minh 6:30 p.m. – Creamline vs EST Cola
UNABLE to scuttle Farm Fresh with its vaunted firepower, Creamline turned to another potent weapon – blocking – and built a wall so imposing that the Foxies simply could not find a way through. Jema Galanza and Jaja Minowa combined for a spectacular blocking spree in the deciding set, turning a tense, hardfought showdown into a rout as the Cool Smashers outlasted the Foxies, 25-18, 2426, 25-22, 23-25, 15-4, on Thursday at the Araneta Coliseum. It was Creamline’s third straight victory and a statement win that moved the 11-time league champions tantalizingly close to the PVL Invitational Finals. More importantly, it underscored the emergence of another dimension in the Cool Smashers’ game: their blocking. Galanza, known primarily for her power, heavy attacks and all-around offensive and defensive game, and Minowa, who has made an immediate impact with her quick attacks and presence at the net, delivered the blocks that mattered most when the match was on the line. After Ces Molina committed a service error to give Creamline a 2-1 lead in the fifth, Galanza rose to reject Trisha Tubu, setting off a stunning sequence at the net that completely flipped the complexion of the decider. As Farm Fresh setter Louie Romero repeatedly went to Tubu, hoping to help the reigning MVP erase the earlier mistake, Galanza and Minowa turned the matchup into a nightmare for the Foxies’ top hitter. Minowa next denied Molina’s backrow attack before Galanza again stuffed Tubu. A bad set by Farm Fresh handed Creamline another point, and Minowa followed by putting up another emphatic block on Tubu. Just like that, what had been a one-point game became a 7-1 Creamline lead. The Foxies were stunned. The Cool Smashers never looked back, and it was only a matter of time before they closed out the two-hour, 13-minute match on Tots Carlos’ well-placed off-speed hit.
No Grand Slam titles in mind for Eala, just will to get better By Jeremiah Sevilla
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LEXANDRA “Alex” Eala is enjoying a rapid rise at just 21, but the Filipina tennis star is making sure her growing success does not push her into chasing titles and looking too far ahead of herself. In the post-match presser after her 6-1, 6-2 victory over American qualifier Mary Stoiana in the first round of the 2026 US Open at the Louis Armstrong Stadium in New York on Wednesday, Eala said she would rather focus on enjoying the journey and continuing to learn. “I’m still so young, so I have so much to learn when it comes to managing myself,” Eala replied when asked about her recent Sky Sports interview, wherein she said she hopes to simply give her best and have fun rather than target a specific number of Grand Slam titles. “There’s so much I feel I’m going to experience and so many challenges I’ve yet to encounter,” added
The Philippines’ Alexandra Eala hits a return to USA’s Mary Stoiana during the women’s singles first-round tennis match. AFP
the eloquent Filipina ace. Eala, ranked No. 18 in the world, entered the US Open as the No. 17 seed after a rapid rise up the WTA rankings, something that would have been difficult to imagine for her a year ago. “With the success I’ve been having this past year and my improvement coming quite rapidly, it feels
like just yesterday that I was dreaming of being on Armstrong or dreaming of playing against the players that I’ve been playing against,” she said. Eala admitted she felt the pressure entering a Grand Slam as a seeded player and was nervous ahead of her opening match. Still, she chose to embrace the moment. “I was nervous. It’s the first round of a Slam, and I’m coming in seeded. It’s a little different because I’ve been doing well recently,” she said. “But I just think it would be such a shame if I didn’t do my best to enjoy it.” Eala was taking on Ukrainian world No. 46 Oleksandra Oliynykova in the second round at press time, giving her a shot at redeeming herself from a 6-3, 5-7, 3-6 loss in their only previous meeting at the Strasbourg Open last May. Eala expressed her confidence in her preparations as she aims to make another deep Grand Slam run after her historic fourth-round finish at Wimbledon. “I think I’ve prepared quite well leading up to it (US Open). My team has put in the work. I’ve put in the work,” she said. “So my expectation is to have more matches at the level that I can produce and have been producing these past couple of weeks.”
No. 1 seed Sabalenka races into US Open 3rd round
Belarus’s Aryna Sabalenka celebrates after defeating Russia’s Polina Iatcenko. AFP
NEW YORK—Top seeded Aryna Sabalenka cruised into the third round of the US Open Wednesday, crushing Russian qualifier Polina Iatcenko 6-1, 6-1. Sabalenka slapped winners practically at will past Iatcenko, a 22-year-old qualifier in her first Grand Slam singles main draw. “Night atmosphere is always the best atmosphere,” Sabalenka said. A four-time Grand Slam champion who has triumphed in New York the last two years, Sabalenka relishes the hard courts of Flushing Meadow. But she has struggled in recent months, suffering disappointing losses at both the French Open and Wimbledon and turning in middling performances at hard court warmup tournaments ahead of the US Open. But against 160th-ranked Iatcenko she raced to a 5-0 lead before Iatcenko
managed to get on the board. Sabalenka dropped just four points on serve in the opening set and was broken just once to give Iatcenko her only game of the second set. Sabalenka responded by winning the next three to secure the win. Having sealed her 15th straight win at Flushing Meadows, Sabalenka told reporters she felt mentally “way stronger than I was in the middle of the season” and also felt better physically. “I’m happy with my level. I’ve been working really hard, but I feel like I’m moving away from trying to be perfect on court,” she said. “I know that you cannot be perfect, and I’m just trying to work with what I have right now,” added Sabalenka, who will play 92nd-ranked Kamilla Rakhhimova of Uzbekistan in the third round. AFP
Loman looks to Eala’s fearless rise for inspiration ahead of BRAVE bout STEPHEN “The Sniper” Loman is taking cues from an athlete who is rewriting history in Philippine sports. As he prepares for his long-awaited return in the co-main event of BRAVE CF 108 on Saturday, September 5, the former BRAVE CF Bantamweight World Champion is drawing inspiration from tennis sensation Alex Eala, whose breakthrough on the international stage has given Filipinos another reason to dream big. Eala has become one of the Philippines’ most celebrated athletes after breaking new ground throughout her rapid ascent. She became the first Filipino to enter the WTA Top 100 in 2025 before climbing into the Top 20, highlighted by her historic singles triumph at the Mubadala D.C. Open this past August. Her journey has included victories over Iga Swiatek and Jessica Pegula, further establishing her reputation as one of the sport’s most promising talents. For Loman, however, Eala’s appeal extends beyond the records and milestones. “It is inspiring to see Alex making history for the Philippines,” Loman said. “She has accomplished things that we have never seen before in Filipino
Stephen Loman and Alex Eala
tennis, and it is great to see our country gaining recognition on the world stage.” A natural southpaw himself, Loman is particularly drawn to the fearless attitude of fellow left-hander Eala whenever she steps onto the court. “What stands out to me is her courage,” he stated. “Tennis is very different from MMA, but when
you watch Alex compete, you can see that fighter’s mentality. She does not back down, and she continues to fight regardless of the situation.” That same resolve will be essential when Loman returns to the action at the historic Pula Arena in Croatia this weekend. “The Sniper” faces No. 1-ranked contender Lasha Abramishvili in a three-round clash, with a potential path toward the vacant BRAVE CF Bantamweight World Championship awaiting the winner. Abramishvili presents a formidable challenge. The Georgian has won eight straight bouts since 2023, including six victories by stoppage. Loman, meanwhile, has not competed for three years. Yet the extended absence has done little to diminish his ambition, with Eala’s success reminding him that even the toughest obstacles can be overcome. “Alex has faced some of the best players in the world, and she has shown that you cannot be afraid of the challenge,” Loman mentioned. “That is the mentality I will bring into this fight. I know what is ahead of me, but I believe I can find a way to win.”
Caole wins Under-10 girls’ chess crown ALICIA, Isabela—Empress Anika Caole played like royalty as she topped the standard division for Under-10 girls in the Philippine National Children’s Chess Championships at the Alicia Community Center here yesterday. The nine-year-old Caole, who represented Luna, Apayao and was trained by International Master Joel Banawa, showed that her sweep of the standard, rapid and blitz golds in the National Age Group Championships in Olongapo last June was no fluke as she finished unbeaten in five matches. The feat earned Caole a spot to next year’s Eastern Asia Youth Championships at a still unspecified country. Also topping their respective age classes were Labo, Camarines Norte’s Frexine Maria Lim (U8G), Zamboanga City’s Khana Kathrine Ventolero (U12G), Pasig’s Gael Adam Navarro (U8B), Makati’s Marco Piolo Sanido (U10B) and Antipolo’s John Randall Peralta (U12B). This event was one of the five the host city under Mayor Atty. Joel Amos Alejandro, with the other four being the Women’s Invitational, the National Juniors, the Youth Selection and the FIDE Classification tournaments. Empress Anika Caole
BUSINESS WHAT’S INSIDE?
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor
Sulu Sea contains 8 trillion trillion cubic feet of gas reserves 8cubic feet
By Alena Mae S. Flores
MTerra solar farm starts operations
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ECOVERABLE gas reserves at the Halcon exploration prospect in the Sulu Sea have more than tripled to 8 trillion cubic feet (Tcf ) following a detailed evaluation of seismic data.
Tetragon Energy Ltd., operator of Service Contract 80 in the Sulu Sea, informed partner The Philodrill Corp. of its disclosure to the Australian Securities Exchange on the increase in prospective resources. Halcon’s prospective resources under gross 2U (P50) best estimates grew to 8 Tcf of recoverable gas from 2.6 Tcf. Gross 1U (P90) low estimates rose to 1.7 Tcf from 188 billion cubic feet (Bcf), while gross 3U high estimates increased to 22.6 Tcf from 19.9 Tcf.
The geological chance of success improved to 24 percent from 18 percent, the company said. “This increase follows a more detailed evaluation of the available seismic data obtained from the Philippines Department of Energy and the engagement of a sedimentological expert to compare recent analogous discoveries in nearby basins,” Philodrill said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange. Tetragon considers recent deepwater
discoveries by Eni and Petronas off Indonesian and Malaysian Borneo geologically analogous to its acreage. “Tetragon believes that the 5 Tcf GIIP [gas initially in place] and 400 million barrels of condensate Geng North discovery made by Eni in 2023 is highly analogous to the Halcon prospect in SC-80,” Philodrill said. Philodrill holds a 12.5-percent participating interest in SC 80, one of two service contracts awarded under the Philippine Conventional Energy Contracting Program. The contract marks the first comanaged energy deal between the national government and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Other consortium members are Tetragon Energy, Sunda Energy Ltd. and PXP Energy Corp.
Global semiconductor hub roadmap unveiled
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The Philippine government’s outstanding debt climbed 1.70 percent to P19.39 trillion in July from P19.07 trillion in June, as the state raised fresh domestic and external loans and the peso value of dollar-denominated debt increased, the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) said Thursday. Domestic borrowings made up 67.61 percent of total debt while external borrowings accounted for the remaining 32.39 percent. Domestic debt rose 2.11 percent to P13.11 trillion in July from P12.84 trillion in June, driven by the net issuance of P271.22 billion in government securities and a slight upward revaluation of onshore dollar bonds. External debt increased 0.84 percent to P6.28 trillion from P6.23 trillion in June. The Treasury attributed the rise to net external loan availments of P17.10 billion and the higher peso value of foreign-currency debt amid currency depreciation. The government’s guaranteed obligations reached P306.13 billion as of end-July, up 0.35 percent from P305.07 billion in June. “The month-on-month increase was primarily due to the P1.47 billion revaluation of external guarantees, partly offset by net repayments of P0.26 billion in external guarantees and P0.15 billion in domestic guarantees,” the BTr said.
Previous estimate
24% Geological chance of success Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC), operator of North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), says it implemented measures to clear floodwater at Tulaoc Bridge in San Simon, Pampanga after the flooding caused severe delays for motorists. MPTC says it installed concrete barriers on the expressway to serve as a temporary block against floodwater entering the road. MPTC also distributed food and water to stranded motorists.
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By Thony Rose Lesaca
2.6 trillion cubic feet
NLEX BARRIER.
SMC submits bid for Agus-Pulangi
Gov’t debt rose to P19.39t in July amid weak peso
Sulu Sea gas reserve estimate
San Miguel unit denies airport project caused Bulacan flooding By Darwin G. Amojelar SAN Miguel Aerocity Inc. (SMAI), the developer of the New Manila International Airport (NMIA) in Bulacan, said Thursday that claims linking its project to recent flooding in the province are unfounded, adding that the airport is being built with long-term flood mitigation measures to protect the facility and nearby communities from Bulacan’s longstanding flooding risks. The company said no hydrological
data, technical analysis or expert opinion has established a connection between NMIA and the recent flooding. “NMIA did not cause Bulacan’s flooding. This is a problem the province has had to contend with for many generations. Our responsibility is to make sure the airport is built for these conditions, and that its development does not make flooding in the province worse,” SMAI said. Flooding in Bulacan predates the airport project by decades and stems from several factors, including the
province’s low-lying geography, heavy rainfall, river flows from upstream areas, limited river capacity and land subsidence, the company said. Rising sea levels and continued development across the province have also added pressure to an already complex watershed, SMAI said. SMAI said research, engineering studies and hydrological modeling for NMIA began as early as 2018 through Danish firm DHI. The studies examined surrounding rivers and coastal waters, water
movement in the area, historical typhoons and storm surges and land subsidence. They also assessed how raising and developing the airport site could affect drainage and flood levels in surrounding and upstream communities. DHI conducted a river flood assessment and a broader Bulacan flood mitigation study in 2019 that found an engineered channel to improve water flow was needed to mitigate flooding risks associated with the airport, SMAI said.
Pag-IBIG Fund keeps home loan rates low
PRIORITY PROJECTS.
The Investment Coordination Committee–Cabinet Committee (ICC-CC), co-chaired by Finance Secretary Frederick Go, approves key project adjustments and implementation extensions to help keep priority government projects on track. This underscores the government’s commitment to advancing projects that respond to the needs of Filipinos, particularly in education and infrastructure.
PAG-IBIG Fund vowed to keep its housing loan rates low even as commercial lending rates are expected to climb, as part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (Expanded 4PH) program. The fund said it is offering a subsidized 3-percent rate for qualified socialized housing borrowers, special promotional rates and a higher P10million housing loan limit. Pag-IBIG is also expanding partnerships with more of the country’s leading residential developers to give members more housing options.
PAL takes delivery of fourth Airbus A350-1000 for long-haul flights
Philippine Airlines takes delivery of its fourth Airbus A350-1000, RP-C3513, as the flag carrier advances a fleet modernization plan that includes orders for more A350-1000s and Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners through 2036. Courtesy of Jian Carl Castillo/JC Aviation Photography
PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) received its fourth Airbus A350-1000 aircraft on Wednesday, bolstering the flag carrier’s long-haul fleet as it presses ahead with a fleet modernization and international expansion plan. The aircraft, registered RP-C3513, landed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 7:22 p.m. following a delivery flight from Airbus’ delivery center in Toulouse, France. RP-C3513 is the fourth of nine A350-1000 aircraft PAL ordered in 2023. The airline remains the only carrier in Southeast Asia operating the type. The A350-1000 is PAL’s flagship long-haul aircraft, configured in a 382seat, three-class layout that includes private business class suites with sliding
privacy doors, a dedicated premium economy cabin and an upgraded economy class product. Airbus says the aircraft delivers better fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions than previous-generation jets. PAL is deploying the A350-1000 on long-haul routes to San Francisco, New York and Toronto. The delivery follows commitments PAL made at the Farnborough International Airshow in June, when the airline signed memoranda of understanding for nine more A3501000 aircraft, with purchase rights for five additional planes, and 15 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, with options for five more. Deliveries under those agreements are scheduled through 2036. Darwin G. Amojelar
Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling, who chairs the Pag-IBIG board of trustees, said the measures give Filipino workers an affordable path to homeownership even as commercial loans become costlier. “With commercial housing loans expected to become more expensive, the Pag-IBIG Housing Loan becomes all the more important in helping Filipino workers continue with their plans to own a home. Our members can always rely on Pag-IBIG for affordable financing. With our low rates and housing loans of up to P10 million, they can choose a home that suits their family, fits their budget and can be paid for affordably over time,” Aliling said.
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TODAY TODAY
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com
PH stocks edge higher as peso recovers ahead of August inflation report
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NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC Notice is hereby given that the estate of the Concepcion Marquez Aquino who died on October 5, 2025 was extrajudicially partitioned by and among her heirs as per Doc. No. 344, Page No. 70, Book No. I, Series of 2026 before Notary Public Atty. Mary Elyssa Jo L. Lindo of Pasig City.
By Jenniffer B. Austria and Thony Rose Lesaca PHILIPPINE stocks edged higher and the peso recovered from four consecutive days of losses on Thursday, as investors braced for the release of August inflation data. The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi) rose 16.19 points,
(MS-Aug 28/Sept 4/11, 2026)
or 0.27 percent, to close at 6,069.42. The “As the peso stabilized at its record-low broader all-shares index gained 17.20 62.55 after four consecutive record breaks, points, or 0.51 percent, to 3,369.81. and oil held around $95 per barrel, the next AB Capital Securities said the PSEi traded key test for 6,000 support will be the conin a tight range during a quiet session as insumer price index print,” AB Capital said. vestors awaited the inflation data. The broMost sectoral indices advanced, led by kerage noted that market consensus points mining and oil, which surged 5.61 perto the August inflation rate easing slightly to cent. Industrial stocks rose 0.75 percent, 6.1 percent from 6.2 percent in July. property gained 0.77 percent, holding CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
firms added 0.43 percent and financials increased 0.14 percent. Services was the lone decliner, slipping 0.12 percent. Market breadth was positive, with 119 advancers against 85 decliners while 50 stocks were unchanged. Trading activity remained thin, however, as value turnover reached P5.24 billion. Foreign investors were net sellers, with outflows totaling P342 million.
CareerCareer Opportunity in PMI Business Solutions (Philippines) Inc. Career Opportunity THUANHAI HAIPHILIPPINES PHILIPPINES CORPORATION Opportunity ininTHUAN CORPORATION
1 MILLION TREES. Members of the Singsing Tilapia Growers and Farmers Association are preparing to help kick off CarbonPH in Balamban, Cebu, following an orientation by Baltazar Tribunalo, head of the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, on nursery establishment and project convergence—equipping local farmers to take an active role in the program’s long-term forest restoration efforts. Aboitiz Foundation and GCash join forces to restore 1,200 hectares of forest and coastal areas in Balamban through the CarbonPH x GForest Project, a five-year initiative that aims to plant and grow one million trees while restoring ecosystems, supporting communities, and strengthening climate resilience.
Position Title: Regional Head Engineering Maintenance Supervisor (1)Vacancy Vacancy Position Title: Engineering Supervisor (1) Position Title: of PlanningMaintenance R1 • Ensure the region fully implements and JOB DESCRIPTION: JOB DESCRIPTION: stabilizes integrated forecast and plan Responsible for planning, supervising and performing preventive corrective maintenance of electrical system supporting Responsible for planning, supervising and performing preventive && corrective maintenance ofthe electrical system supporting boiler operations. Conduct troubleshooting equipment testing , system optimization and provide technical guidance. boiler operations. Conduct troubleshooting equipment testing , system optimization and provide technical guidance. global process, maintaining data discipline, Job Description: QUALIFICATION: QUALIFICATION: Bachelor’s degree Electrical engineering with least years relevant experience industrial electrical maintenance probably steam boiler Bachelor’s degree inin Electrical engineering with atat least 55 years relevant experience inin industrial electrical maintenance probably inin steam boiler model accuracy, and governance. • leads the end-to-end planning strategy, performance, process plant environment. oror process plant environment. . . Knowledge troubleshooting. Preventive maintenance and electrical control system. Knowledge inin troubleshooting. Preventive and electrical system. Qualification (Education, Experience, Professional and transformation agenda for maintenance PMI’s Region 1 control Application may be sent to: Application may be sent to: within the Operations Customer Service (OCS) License, Skills Certification, Specialized Training): THUAN HAI PHILIPPINES CORPORATION THUAN HAI PHILIPPINES CORPORATION MINDA VERAS MINDA R.R. VERAS organization. thuanhaiphilippines@gmail.com thuanhaiphilippines@gmail.com • Responsible for driving regional Integrated BusinessName •ofofforeign Minimum 15 Intending years oftotoexperience inposition supply chain Company/ Employer Name foreign national Intending apply for the position Company/ Employer national apply for the Planning (IBP),Corporation strengthening market planningName: management within Name: TRAN THANH HAI multinational organizations, with Thuan Hai Philippines Corporation TRAN THANH HAI Thuan Hai Philippines Address: 563 Manuel Quezon, Cupang Muntinlupa City Address: 563 Manuel L.L. Quezon, Cupang Muntinlupa City capabilities, deploying advanced planning digital exposure to multiple country setups. Nationality: Vietnamese Nationality: Vietnamese U-606 Platinum 2000, Annapolis St. Greenhills San Juan City U-606 Platinum 2000, 77 Annapolis St. Greenhills San Juan City Intended period Employment: One (1) year ofof Employment: One (1) year NATURE OF BUSINESS: NATURE BUSINESS: toolsOF (including o9) and ensuring seamless alignmentIntended • period Strong and proven expertise in both market and Wholesale-N2, Importer Exporter non-Essential Commodities Wholesale-N2, Importer && Exporter ofof non-Essential Commodities with global category planning teams. TechnicalSupport regional(1) demand & supply planning leadership roles. Position Title: OperationsTechnical SupportSpecialist Specialist (1) Vacancy Position Title: Operations Vacancy • JOB Own and lead the Regional IBP Process, ensuring full • Demonstrated track record in advanced planning tools JOB DESCRIPTION: DESCRIPTION: Providestechnicala technicala& &operational operationalsupport supportfor forsteam steamboiler boilerincluding includingmonitoring monitoringboiler boilerperformances, performances,assisting assistinginintroubleshooting troubleshootingand and Provides alignment withcoordinating global standards, market cycles, andefficient implementation and inusage; experience with o9 is highly maintenance, coordinating technicalactivities activities ensuring such efficientand and reliableboiler boileroperation operation inaccordance accordance withapplicable applicable safety and maintenance, technical ensuring such reliable with safety and operational standards. operational standards. functional partners. preferred. QUALIFICATION: QUALIFICATION: Bachelor’s degreeor degreeorrelated relatedtechnical technicalqualifications, qualifications, relevant relevantexperience experienceinsteam insteamboiler boileroperations, operations, knowledge knowledgeininboiler boilersystemss, systemss, Bachelor’s • Drive IBP maturity advancement across market • End-to-end supply chain transformation experience troubleshooting. Good technical and communications skills troubleshooting. Good inin technical and communications skills Company/ Employer Name foreign national Intending apply for the position Company/ of national Intending toto apply for the position planning organizations toEmployer achieve end-to-end cross- Name isofforeign mandatory, including operating model redesign, Name: NGUYEN BA THANG and digital enablement. Thuan Hai Philippines Corporation NGUYEN BA THANG Thuan Hai Philippines Corporation functional integration and decision-making discipline.Name: process standardization, Address: 563 Manuel Quezon, Cupang Muntinlupa City Address: 563 Manuel L.L. Quezon, Cupang Muntinlupa City Nationality: Vietnamese Nationality: Vietnamese • U-606 ActPlatinum as the2000, Regional Category Lead, representing • period Experience leadingOne complex portfolio transitions, SLOB U-606 Platinum 2000, Annapolis St. Greenhills San Juan City 77 Annapolis St. Greenhills San Juan City Intended period Employment: One (1) year Intended ofof Employment: (1) year NATURE OF BUSINESS: NATURE OF BUSINESS: Wholesale-N2, Exporter non-Essential Commodities Region 1 Importer inImporter global category planning forums. reduction programs, inventory optimization, and IBP Wholesale-N2, && Exporter ofof non-Essential Commodities Thuan Hai Philippines Corporation and qualified perform the services and job description Hai Philippines Corporation and qualified the services and job description process deployment istotoaperform strong advantage. • Thuan Translate global category strategies into regional for this position. The company has the intention employ the said foreign nationals and apply Alien Employment Permit with the for this position. The company has the intention toto employ the said foreign nationals and apply forfor anan Alien Employment Permit with the implementation roadmaps and ensure market-level Any Filipino jobseeker who competent, able and willing perform the services which the foreign national intended hired for, may file objection Any Filipino jobseeker who is is competent, able and willing toto perform the services forfor which the foreign national is is intended toto bebe hired for, may file anan objection the Department labor and Employment atat the Department ofof labor and Employment - Applications may be sent to: adoption. after this publication. after this publication. Please inform Department Labor and EmploymentDole Central Office, have any information criminal offenses committed the foreign national inform Department ofofLabor and EmploymentDole Central Office, any information onon criminal offenses committed byby the foreign national • Please Lead the regional deployment, adoption, andIf Ifyouyouhave continuous improvement of o9 821 and the full suite of Career Opportunity LUCKY 821CONSULTANCY CONSULTANCY SOLUTIONS CORPORATION Career Opportunity ininLUCKY &&SOLUTIONS CORPORATION Gonzalez, Francis <Francis.Gonzalez@pmi.com> Position Title:planning digital PROJECT PROJECTCONSULTANT CONSULTANT (1) (1)Vacancy Vacancy Position Title: advanced capabilities.
ADDRESS: ADDRESS:
ADDRESS: ADDRESS:
hereby declares that the above-names foreign nationals are able, willing hereby declares that the above-names foreign nationals are able, willing
DOLE Central Office Department Labor and Employment (DOLE) Building, Muralla Wing cor. General Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, 1002, DOLE Central Office Department of of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Building, Muralla Wing cor. General Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, 1002,
DOLE Central Office Department Labor and Employment (DOLE) Building, Muralla Wing cor. General Luna St., Intramuros, DOLE Central Office Department of of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Building, Muralla Wing cor. General Luna St., Intramuros,
Manila, 1002, Manila, 1002,
JOB DESCRIPTION: JOB DESCRIPTION:
Assist planning, organizing, and coordinating project activities. Assist inin planning, organizing, and coordinating project activities. Provide professional advice and recommendations project implementation. Provide professional advice and recommendations onon project implementation. Review project requirements, timelines, budgets, and deliverables. Review project requirements, timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
Preferred one two years working experience Preferred one toto two years ofof working experience least High School AtAt least High School
Company/ Employer
QUALIFICATION: QUALIFICATION:
Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position
Name: Ankit Gupta Company Name: PMI Business Solutions Application may sent to: Application may bebe sent to: LUCKY 821 CONSULTANCY SOLUTIONS CORPORATION LUCKY 821 CONSULTANCY && SOLUTIONS CORPORATION (Philippines) Inc. Address: Taguig City Nationality: Indian Complete Address: 15/F and 16/F, 8Name Company/ Employer Name foreign national Intending apply for the position Company/ Employer ofof foreign national Intending toto apply for the position Rockwell, Hidalgo Drive,Corporation Rockwell Center,Name: Intended Period of Employment: Three (3) Years Lucky 821 Consultancy Solutions Corporation Lucky 821 Consultancy && Solutions Name: CHO, FRANKLINE AWASUM CHO, FRANKLINE AWASUM Address: U-29 SMLight Residence Mandaluyong City Address: U-29 SMLight Residence Mandaluyong City 1210 Makati City Nationality: Cameroonian Cameroonian Nationality: Floor Cynros Bldg. 513 Alonzo St. Brgy. 699 Malate Manila 3 3 Floor Cynros Bldg. 513 Alonzo St. Brgy. 699 Malate Manila Intended period Employment: Three (3) years Intended period ofof Employment: Three (3) years Nature Of Business: Manufacturing NATURE OF BUSINESS: NATURE OF BUSINESS: MARIAH GEHRON ALEXIE CANJA MARIAH GEHRON ALEXIE CANJA Lucky821consultancy@gmail.com Lucky821consultancy@gmail.com
ADDRESS: ADDRESS: rd rd
Consultancy, Documentation Documentation Visas Visas related related toto foreign foreign Consultancy,
nationals and other services.. nationals and other services.. Company hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to LUCKY 821 CONSULTANCY SOLUTIONS CORPORATION and qualified perform the LUCKY 821 CONSULTANCY && SOLUTIONS CORPORATION and qualified toto perform the services and job description this position. The company has the intention to employ the said foreign nationals and apply for Alien Employment Permit with services and job description forfor this position. company has the intention employ the said foreign nationals and apply for anan Alien Employment with perform the services and jobThe description for thistoposition. The company has the intention toPermit employ the the Any Filipino jobseeker who competent, able and willing perform services which the foreign national intended hired for, may file objection the said foreign national and apply for anthethe Alien Employment Permit withtotothe Bureau of Local Any Filipino jobseeker who is is competent, able and willing toto perform services forfor which the foreign national is is intended bebe hired for, may file anan objection the Department labor and Employment atat the Department ofof labor and Employment - after this publication. after this publication. Employment (BLE) located at 6th Floor, Banco Filipino Condominium, Solana Street, Intramuros, Please inform Department Labor and EmploymentDole Central Office, you have any information criminal offenses committed the foreign national Please inform Department ofofLabor and EmploymentDole Central Office, If If you have any information onon criminal offenses committed byby the foreign national Manila. hereby declares that the above-names foreign nationals are able, willing hereby declares that the above-names foreign nationals are able, willing
DOLE Central Office Department Labor and Employment (DOLE) Building, Muralla Wing cor. General Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, 1002, DOLE Central Office Department of of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Building, Muralla Wing cor. General Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, 1002,
DOLE Central Office Department Labor and Employment (DOLE) Building, Muralla Wing cor. General Luna St., Intramuros, DOLE Central Office Department of of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Building, Muralla Wing cor. General Luna St., Intramuros,
Manila, 1002, Manila, 1002,
CareerOpportunity OpportunityininDITO DITOTELECOMMUNITY TELECOMMUNITYCORPORATION CORPORATION Career Positiontitle: title: Position
SupplyChain ChainData DataAnalytics AnalyticsSenior SeniorAdvisor Advisor Supply JobDescription: Description: Job Conductadvanced advancedsupply supplychain chaindata dataengineering engineeringand andanalytics analyticsbybyextracting, extracting,cleansing, cleansing,integrating, integrating,and andvalidating validatingdata datafrom fromenterprise enterprise Conduct systems,including includingERP, ERP,WMS, WMS,TMS, TMS,and andother otherrelevant relevanttechnology technologyplatforms, platforms,using usingadvanced advancedSQL SQLand andPython Pythonmethodologies. methodologies. systems, Developpredictive predictiveand andanalytical analyticalmodels modelsforfordemand demandforecasting, forecasting,supply supplylead-time lead-timeprediction, prediction,inventory inventoryoptimization, optimization,anomaly anomalydetection, detection, Develop andscenario scenarioanalysis analysistotoidentify identifypotential potentialsupply supplyconstraints, constraints,delivery deliveryrisks, risks,and andtechnology technologyavailability availabilityissues issuesaffecting affecting and telecommunicationsinfrastructure infrastructuredeployment. deployment. telecommunications Analyzecomplex complexinternational internationaland andmulti-vendor multi-vendortechnology technologysupply supplychains, chains,including includingthose thosesupporting supportingthe thesourcing sourcingand andsupply supplyofof4G/5G 4G/5G Analyze networkequipment, equipment,telecommunications telecommunicationsinfrastructure, infrastructure,data datacenter centersystems, systems,and andother othercritical criticaltechnology technologycomponents, components,totoidentify identifysupply supply network dependencies,disruption disruptionindicators, indicators,and andoptimization optimizationopportunities. opportunities. dependencies, Qualification(Education, (Education,Experience, Experience,Professional ProfessionalLicense, License,Skills SkillsCertification, Certification,Specialized SpecializedTraining): Training): Qualification Bachelor'sdegree degreeororabove aboveininData DataScience, Science,Statistics, Statistics,Computer ComputerScience, Science,Information InformationTechnology, Technology,Industrial IndustrialEngineering, Engineering,Business Business Bachelor's Administration,Supply SupplyChain ChainManagement, Management,ororrelated relatedtechnical/quantitative technical/quantitativedisciplines; disciplines;MBA MBAorormaster’s master’sdegree degreepreferred. preferred. Administration, Minimum1010years yearsofoftechnical technicalworking workingexperience experienceinindata dataanalytics, analytics,with withatatleast least3 3years yearsfocused focusedonondata datamodeling, modeling,predictive predictiveanalytics, analytics, Minimum andvisualization visualizationdelivery deliveryspecifically specificallywithin withinthe thesupply supplychain chaindomain. domain. and Experienceininsupply supplychain chaindata dataanalytics analyticswithin withinthe thetelecommunications telecommunicationsindustry, industry,large largelogistics logisticsenterprises, enterprises,orormultinational multinationalcorporations corporations Experience preferred. isispreferred. Provencapability capabilitytototranslate translatecomplex complexbusiness businessproblems problemsinto intodata dataanalysis analysisframeworks frameworksand andtechnical technicalsolution solutionapproaches. approaches. Proven Applicationsmay maybebesent sentto:to: Applications sharmaine.rendon@dito.ph sharmaine.rendon@dito.ph SHARMAINERENDON RENDON SHARMAINE Company/Employer Employer Company/
Nameofofforeign foreignnational nationalintending intendingtotoapply applyfor forthe theposition position Name
CompanyName: Name:DITO DITOTELECOMMUNITY TELECOMMUNITYCORPORATION CORPORATION Company
LONG,RUIFENG RUIFENG Name:LONG, Name:
Completeaddress: address:11/F 11/FUDENNA UDENNATOWER, TOWER,RIZAL RIZALDRIVE DRIVECORNER CORNER4TH 4TH Complete AVENUE,BONIFACIO BONIFACIOGLOBAL GLOBALCITY, CITY,TAGUIG TAGUIGCITY CITY AVENUE,
Address:Unit Unit1509 1509The TheEncino EncinoTower, Tower,Two TwoSerendra Serendra11th 11thAvenue, Avenue, Address: corner26th 26thStreet StreetBonifacio BonifacioGlobal GlobalCity, City,Taguig TaguigCity City corner
Natureofofbusiness: business:Telecommunications TelecommunicationsCompany Company Nature
Nationality:CHINESE CHINESE Nationality: Intendedperiod periodofofemployment: employment:ONE ONE(1)(1)YEAR YEAR Intended
DITOTELECOMMUNITY TELECOMMUNITYCORPORATION CORPORATIONhereby herebydeclares declaresthat thatthe theabove-named above-namedforeign foreignnational nationalis isable, able,willing, willing,and andqualified qualifiedtotoperform performthe theservices servicesand andjob job DITO descriptionforforthis thisposition. position.The Thecompany companyhas hasthe theintention intentiontotoemploy employthe thesaid saidforeign foreignnational nationaland andapply applyforforananAlien AlienEmployment EmploymentPermit Permitwith withthe theDepartment Departmentofof description Laborand andEmployment Employment- National - NationalCapital CapitalRegion Regionlocated locatedatat967 967Maligaya MaligayaStreet, Street,Malate, Malate,Manila. Manila. Labor
Career Opportunity in CONCENTRIX CVG PHILIPPINES, INC. Position Title: Operations Manager II Job Description: Operational Oversight: Lead and manage daily service delivery operations, ensuring strict compliance with performance metrics, service level agreements (SLAs), and client requirements. Team Leadership: Direct operational leaders and team supervisors, providing coaching, performance management, and workforce development to maintain high productivity. Process Improvement: Analyze operational data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify gaps, optimize processes, and implement quality improvement strategies. Client & Stakeholder Management: Serve as a key point of contact for client communications, operational reviews, and strategic planning alignment. Resource Management: Manage staffing levels, operational budgeting, and resource allocation to ensure cost efficiency and operational stability. NOTICE TO THE NOTICE TO THE
PUBLIC PUBLIC
Qualification (Education, Experience, Professional License, Skills Certification, Specialized Training):
Experience: Total Years: 21+ years of experience in Customer Experience, Operations, Training, and Quality Management Skills Certification
Six Sigma Yellow Belt Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) RPA Developer Foundation (UiPath) Ada Chatbot Certification (Build, Personalize, Optimize) Project Management Foundations Customer Success Management Fundamentals Become a Product Manager
Specialized Training
COPC Performance Excellence Standards & Framework Alignment AI Implementation & Automation Strategy in Operations Speech Analytics Development & Implementation Learning Effectiveness Measurement (Kirkpatrick Model) Training Needs Analysis (TNA) & Program Design
Notice isis hereby hereby given given Notice that theLevel estate the that the estate ofof the Highest / Institution: Royal College of Science & Concepcion Marquez Concepcion Marquez Commerce (Completed 1 year of coursework toward Applications may be sent to: Bachelor of Science Computer PH_QC_EASTW_MULTILINGUAL@concentrix.com Aquino who diedin on Oc- Science) Aquino who died on OcName of foreign national intending to apply for the tober 5,5, 2025 2025Company/ was exextober was Employer position trajudicially partitioned partitioned trajudicially Company Name: Concentrix CVG Philippines, Inc. Name: Akash Prakash Shetty byand andamong amongher herheirs heirs by Complete Address: 14/F to344, 25/F Ayala North Exchange, Address: 21-2Q, Cambridge Village, Cainta, Rizal, as per Doc. Doc. No. No. as per 344, Tower 2, 6798 Ayala Avenue cor. Amorsolo and Salcedo 1900 Page No.70, 70,Book BookNo. No. Page No. Streets, Brgy. San Lorenzo, Makati City Nationality: Indian Series of 2026 before I,I,Series of 2026 before Nature of Business: Business to Business IT Intended Period of Employment: Two (2) Years Notary Public Atty. Mary Notary Public Atty. Mary Company hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the Elyssa Jo job Lindo ofof Elyssa L.L.description Lindo servicesJo and for this position. The company has the intention to employ the said foreign national Pasig City. Pasig City. and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) located at 6th Floor, Banco Filipino Condominium, Solana Street, Intramuros, Manila. (MS-Aug 28/Sept 4/11, 2026) (MS-Aug 28/Sept 4/11, 2026)
Manila Manila
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TODAY TODAY
CareerOpportunity OpportunityininEFS EFSDOCUMENTATION DOCUMENTATIONSERVICES SERVICESINC. INC. Career
EXACTPOSITION POSITION: INDIAN : INDIANADMIN ADMINHELP HELPDESK DESK EXACT Vacancy) ( 3( 3Vacancy) JobDescription: Description: Job -Answerand anddirect directphone phonecalls calls -Answer -Cantranslate translatepunjabi punjabilanguage languagetotoEnglish Englishlanguage language -Can -Managecommunication communicationand andanswer answeremails emailsfrom fromthe theIndian IndianClient Client -Manage Qualification (Education, Experience, Professional License,Skills SkillsCertification, Certification,Specialized SpecializedTraining): Training): Qualification (Education, Experience, Professional License, -ExcellentEnglish Englishcommunication communicationskills, skills,both bothwritten writtenand andverbal. verbal. -Excellent -Excellentphone, phone,email, email,and andinstant instantmessaging messagingcommunication communicationskills. skills. -Excellent -Solidorganizational organizationaland andtime timemanagement managementskills. skills. -Solid
NameofofForeign Foreignnational nationalintending intendingtotoapply applyfor forthe theposition position Name
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Name: MANDEEP : MANDEEPSINGH SINGH Name Address: 24 : 24DOLLAR DOLLARST. ST.PASO PASONG NGTATAMO MOQUEZON QUEZONCITY CITY Address Nationality: INDIAN : INDIAN Nationality Name: :GURJANT GURJANTSINGH SINGH 2 2 Name Address: :0820 0820F.F.RUBY RUBYST. ST.ROSARY ROSARYVILLE VILLESUBD SUBDPH PH2 2STA STACRUZ CRUZBULACAN BULACAN Address Nationality: INDIAN : INDIAN Nationality Name: :SANGHA, SANGHA,RAJVEER RAJVEERKAUR KAUR 3 3 Name Address: :B26 B26L4L4BBSAO SAOPAOLO PAOLOST. ST.BFBFHOMES HOMESINTERNATIONAL INTERNATIONALSOUTH SOUTHBRGY, BRGY,BFBFHOMES HOMESLAS LASPIÑAS PIÑASCITY CITY Address Nationality: INDIAN : INDIAN Nationality EXACTPOSITION POSITION: INDIAN : INDIANBILINGUAL BILINGUALCUSTOMER CUSTOMERSERVICE SERVICEREPRESENTATIVE REPRESENTATIVE EXACT
Vacancy) ( 3( 3Vacancy) JobDescription: Description: Job - greatbilingual bilingualcustomer customerservice serviceassistant. assistant. - great - responsiblefor forproviding providingexcellent excellentcustomer customerservice servicetotoour ourclients clients - responsible - managinga ahigh highvolume volumeofofcustomer customerinquiries inquiries - managing - haveexcellent excellentcommunication communicationskills skillsespecially especiallyEnglish Englishand andPunjabi/Hindi Punjabi/Hindi - have - abletotowork workinina afast-paced fast-pacedenvironment environment - able Qualification(Education, (Education,Experience, Experience,Professional ProfessionalLicense, License,Skills SkillsCertification, Certification,Specialized SpecializedTraining): Training): Qualification - bilingualskills skillsininPunjabi/Hindi Punjabi/Hindiand andEnglish English - bilingual - excellentwritten, written,oral, oral,and andinterpersonal interpersonalcommunication communicationskills skillsininboth bothEnglish Englishand andPunjabi/Hindi Punjabi/Hindi - excellent - proficientininthe theuse useofofMS MSOffice Officeapplications applications - proficient - strongmulti-tasking, multi-tasking,customer-service, customer-service,and andproblem-solving problem-solvingskills skills - strong
NameofofForeign Foreignnational nationalintending intendingtotoapply applyfor forthe theposition position Name Name: : DEOL, DEOL,BHUPINDER BHUPINDERSINGH SINGH Name Address: BLK : BLK6 6LOT LOT2 2TEACHER TEACHERVILLAGE VILLAGEMANGGAHAN MANGGAHANPASIG PASIGCITY CITY Address Nationality: INDIAN : INDIAN Nationality JASWINDERKAUR KAUR Name: DHALIWAL, : DHALIWAL,JASWINDER 2 2 Name Address: BLK : BLK2121LOT LOT7 7LAPU-LAPU LAPU-LAPUST. ST.BATASAN BATASANHILLS HILLSQUEZON QUEZONCITY CITY Address Nationality: INDIAN : INDIAN Nationality Name: :BRAR, BRAR,SUKHRAJ SUKHRAJSINGH SINGH 3 3 Name Address: B25 : B25L2L2MAPLE MAPLESTREET STREETPHASE PHASE3 3RAINBOW RAINBOWVILLAGE VILLAGE5 5BRGY BRGY171 171BAGUMBONG BAGUMBONGCALOOCAN CALOOCANCITY CITY Address Nationality : INDIAN Nationality : INDIAN EXACTPOSITION POSITION: PUNJABI : PUNJABICUSTOMER CUSTOMEREXPERIENCE EXPERIENCEASSOCIATE ASSOCIATE EXACT 11
Vacancy) ( 3( 3Vacancy) JobDescription: Description: Job - providecustomer customerservice servicesuport. suport. - provide - responsiblefor forproviding providingexcellent excellentcustomer customerservice servicetotoour ourclients clients - responsible - Cantranslate translatepunjabi punjabilanguage languagetotoEnglish Englishlanguage language - Can - abletotowork workinina afast-paced fast-pacedenvironment environment - able Qualification(Education, (Education,Experience, Experience,Professional ProfessionalLicense, License,Skills SkillsCertification, Certification,Specialized SpecializedTraining): Training): Qualification - bilingualskills skillsininPunjabi Punjabiand andEnglish English - bilingual - excellentwritten, written,oral, oral,and andinterpersonal interpersonalcommunication communicationskills skillsininboth bothEnglish Englishand andPunjabi Punjabi - excellent - proficientininthe theuse useofofMS MSOffice Officeapplications applications - proficient - strongmulti-tasking, multi-tasking,customer-service, customer-service,and andproblem-solving problem-solvingskills skills - strong
NameofofForeign Foreignnational nationalintending intendingtotoapply applyfor forthe theposition position Name Name: MANJIT : MANJITKAUR KAUR Name Address:UNIT UNIT2-D 2-DBLDG BLDG353 353GGARANETA ARANETAAVE AVEBRGY. BRGY.SANTOL SANTOLQUEZON QUEZONCITY CITY Address: Nationality: INDIAN : INDIAN Nationality Name: GHARU, : GHARU,RAJPAL RAJPALSINGH SINGH 22 Name Address:0047 0047CUBAST. CUBAST.MARIKINA MARIKINAGREENHEIGHTS GREENHEIGHTSSUBD. SUBD.PH PH1 1CONCEPTION CONCEPTION1 1MARIKINA MARIKINACITY CITY Address: Nationality: INDIAN : INDIAN Nationality Name: GHATORA, : GHATORA,SUKHWINDER SUKHWINDERSINGH SINGH 33 Name Address:0021 0021BMHG BMHGDEL DELPILAR PILARPARANG PARANGMARIKINA MARIKINACITY CITY Address: Nationality: INDIAN : INDIAN Nationality EXACTPOSITION POSITION: MANDARIN : MANDARINADMIN ADMINHELP HELPDESK DESK EXACT 11
Vacancy) ) ( 3( 3Vacancy JobDescription: Description: Job -Answer anddirect directphone phonecalls calls -Answer and -Cantranslate translatemandarin mandarinlanguage languagetotoEnglish Englishlanguage language -Can -Managecommunication communicationand andanswer answeremails emailsfrom fromthe theChinese ChineseClient Client -Manage Qualification(Education, (Education,Experience, Experience,Professional ProfessionalLicense, License,Skills SkillsCertification, Certification,Specialized SpecializedTraining): Training): Qualification -ExcellentEnglish Englishcommunication communicationskills, skills,both bothwritten writtenand andverbal. verbal. -Excellent -Excellentphone, phone,email, email,and andinstant instantmessaging messagingcommunication communicationskills. skills. -Excellent -Solidorganizational organizationaland andtime timemanagement managementskills. skills. -Solid
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NameofofForeign Foreignnational nationalintending intendingtotoapply applyfor forthe theposition position Name Name: HUANG, : HUANG,XIAODONG XIAODONG Name Address:AI007 AI0072201 2201RESIDENCES RESIDENCESBRGY BRGY1313PASAY PASAYCITY CITY Address: Nationality: CHINESE : CHINESE Nationality
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Name: XU, : XU,SIYUN SIYUN Name Address:9438 9438CECILE CECILEST. ST.AIRPORT AIRPORTVILLAGE VILLAGEBRGY. BRGY.VITALEZ VITALEZPARAÑAQUE PARAÑAQUECITY CITY Address: Nationality: CHINESE : CHINESE Nationality
33
Name: WANG, : WANG,TAO TAO Name Address:6TH 6THFLR FLR528 528LAVEZARES LAVEZARESST. ST.BINONDO BINONDOMANILA MANILA Address: Nationality: CHINESE : CHINESE Nationality
CompanyName Name: : Company EFSDOCUMENTATION DOCUMENTATIONSERVICES SERVICESINC. INC. EFS thth Flr. AIC Center Esolta St. Brgy. 291 Binondo Manila CompleteAddress: Address:1102B 1102B1111 Complete Flr. AIC Center Esolta St. Brgy. 291 Binondo Manila NatureofofBusiness Business: Documetation : Documetation Nature Intendedperiod periodofofemployment: employment:Three Three(3) (3)years years Intended Applicationsmay maybebesent senttoto Applications NameofofCompany CompanyHR: HR:MS. MS.ARMIE ARMIEBAGGAYAN BAGGAYAN Name Emailaddress: address:efsdocumentationservicesinc@gmail.com efsdocumentationservicesinc@gmail.com Email EFSDOCUMENTATION DOCUMENTATIONSERVICES SERVICESINC. INC.hereby herebydeclares declaresthat thatthe theabove-name above-nameforeign foreignnational nationalisisable, able,willing, willing,and and EFS qualifiedtotoperform performthe theservices servicesand andjob jobdescription descriptionfor forthis thisposition. position.The Thecompany companyhas hasthe theintention intentiontotoemploy employthe the qualified saidforeign foreignnational nationaland andapply applyfor forananAlien AlienEmployment EmploymentPermit Permitwith withthe theDepartment DepartmentofofLabor Laborand andEmploymentEmploymentsaid CentralOffice Officethrough throughthe theBureau BureauofofLocal LocalEmployment(BLE) Employment(BLE)located locatedatat6th 6thFlr. Flr.BFBFCondminium CondminiumCorporation, Corporation,corner corner Central SolanaAvenue Avenueand andSoriano SorianoSt. St.Intramuros, Intramuros,Manila, Manila,Philippines. Philippines. Solana
CareerOpportunity OpportunityininPMI PMIBusiness BusinessSolutions Solutions(Philippines) (Philippines)Inc. Inc. Career PositionTitle: Title:Regional RegionalHead HeadofofPlanning PlanningR1 R1 Position JobDescription: Description: Job leadsthe theend-to-end end-to-endplanning planningstrategy, strategy,performance, performance, •• leads and transformation transformation agenda agenda forfor PMI’s PMI’s Region Region 1 1 and within the the Operations Operations Customer Customer Service Service (OCS) (OCS) within organization. organization. Responsibleforfordriving drivingregional regionalIntegrated IntegratedBusiness Business •• Responsible Planning (IBP), (IBP), strengthening strengthening market market planning planning Planning capabilities, deploying deploying advanced advanced planning planning digital digital capabilities, tools(including (includingo9) o9)and andensuring ensuringseamless seamlessalignment alignment tools withglobal globalcategory categoryplanning planningteams. teams. with Ownand andlead leadthe theRegional RegionalIBP IBPProcess, Process,ensuring ensuringfull full •• Own alignmentwith withglobal globalstandards, standards,market marketcycles, cycles,and and alignment functional partners. functional partners. Drive IBP IBP maturity maturity advancement advancement across across market market •• Drive planningorganizations organizationstotoachieve achieveend-to-end end-to-endcrosscrossplanning functionalintegration integrationand anddecision-making decision-makingdiscipline. discipline. functional Actasasthe theRegional RegionalCategory CategoryLead, Lead,representing representing •• Act Region1 1ininglobal globalcategory categoryplanning planningforums. forums. Region Translate global global category category strategies strategies into into regional regional •• Translate implementationroadmaps roadmapsand andensure ensuremarket-level market-level implementation adoption. adoption. Lead the the regional regional deployment, deployment, adoption, adoption, and and •• Lead continuousimprovement improvementofofo9o9and andthe thefull fullsuite suiteofof continuous advancedplanning planningdigital digitalcapabilities. capabilities. advanced
Ensure the the region region fully fully implements implements and and •• Ensure stabilizes the the integrated integrated forecast forecast and and plan plan stabilizes global process, process, maintaining maintaining data data discipline, discipline, global modelaccuracy, accuracy,and andgovernance. governance. model Qualification(Education, (Education,Experience, Experience,Professional Professional Qualification License,Skills SkillsCertification, Certification,Specialized SpecializedTraining): Training): License, Minimum 1515 years years ofof experience experience inin supply supply chain chain •• Minimum managementwithin withinmultinational multinationalorganizations, organizations,with with management exposuretotomultiple multiplecountry countrysetups. setups. exposure Strong and and proven proven expertise expertise inin both both market market and and •• Strong regionaldemand demand&&supply supplyplanning planningleadership leadershiproles. roles. regional Demonstratedtrack trackrecord recordininadvanced advancedplanning planningtools tools •• Demonstrated implementationand andusage; usage;experience experiencewith witho9o9isishighly highly implementation preferred. preferred. End-to-end supply supply chain chain transformation transformation experience experience •• End-to-end mandatory, including including operating operating model model redesign, redesign, isis mandatory, processstandardization, standardization,and anddigital digitalenablement. enablement. process Experienceleading leadingcomplex complexportfolio portfoliotransitions, transitions,SLOB SLOB •• Experience reductionprograms, programs,inventory inventoryoptimization, optimization,and andIBP IBP reduction processdeployment deploymentisisa astrong strongadvantage. advantage. process
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Applicationsmay maybebesent sentto:to: Applications
Company/Employer Employer Company/ Name: PMI PMI Business Business Solutions Solutions Company Name: Company (Philippines)Inc. Inc. (Philippines) Complete Address: Address: 15/F 15/F and and 16/F, 16/F, 88 Complete Rockwell,Hidalgo HidalgoDrive, Drive,Rockwell RockwellCenter, Center, Rockwell, 1210 Makati City 1210 Makati City NatureOf OfBusiness: Business:Manufacturing Manufacturing Nature
Gonzalez,Francis Francis<Francis.Gonzalez@pmi.com> <Francis.Gonzalez@pmi.com> Gonzalez, Nameofofforeign foreignnational nationalintending intending Name applyfor forthe theposition position totoapply Name:Ankit AnkitGupta Gupta Name: Address:Taguig TaguigCity City Address: Nationality:Indian Indian Nationality: IntendedPeriod PeriodofofEmployment: Employment:Three Three(3) (3)Years Years Intended
Companyhereby herebydeclares declaresthat thatthe theabove-named above-namedforeign foreignnational nationalisisable, able,willing, willing,and andqualified qualifiedtoto Company performthe theservices servicesand andjob jobdescription descriptionfor forthis thisposition. position.The Thecompany companyhas hasthe theintention intentiontotoemploy employ perform thesaid saidforeign foreignnational nationaland andapply applyfor foran anAlien AlienEmployment EmploymentPermit Permitwith withthe theBureau BureauofofLocal Local the Employment (BLE) located at 6th Floor, Banco Filipino Condominium, Solana Street, Intramuros, Employment (BLE) located at 6th Floor, Banco Filipino Condominium, Solana Street, Intramuros, Manila. Manila.
MTerra solar project starts operations M
By Alena Mae S. Flores
ERALCO PowerGen Corp. said Thursday MTerra Solar Phase 1 has declared commercial operations for 600 megawatts of alternating current mid-merit CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK capacity underCYAN its power supply agreement MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK with Manila Electric Co. An additional 250 MW of capacity under the same PSA is set to begin commercial operations in the coming months. MGen said in a statement the commercial operations declaration marks a major milestone for MTerra Solar—a multi-facility site in Nueva Ecija and Bulacan featuring 3,500 megawatt-peak of solar photovoltaic capacity paired with a 4,500 megawatt-hour battery energy storage system. Commercial operations began Aug. 26 following the issuance of a final certificate of approval to connect by the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines. The certification confirms the facility met requirements to safely operate 950 MW of solar capacity and an 825 MW battery energy storage system on the national grid. Teams successfully carried out grid testing in recent weeks, clearing the way for Phase 1 operations, the company said. “This is a significant step toward the future of energy in the Philippines. By combining solar power with battery storage at an unprecedented scale, we’re demonstrating how renewable energy can strengthen energy security, support economic growth, and build a more resilient and sustainable power system for our country,” said Manuel Pangilinan, chairman of Meralco and MGen. The commercial launch follows the July 14 inauguration of MTerra Solar Phase 1, which marked the energization of 1,373 MW of solar PV capacity and 825 MW (equivalent to 3,300 MWh) of BESS, becoming the world’s largest integrated solar PV and battery storage facility on a single site.
Megawide price target raised as 4PH housing lifts outlook By Jenniffer B. Austria FIRST Metro Securities raised its 12-month price target for Megawide Construction Corp. to P7.50 from P4.50, implying a 54.3-percent upside from the stock’s P4.86 close on Sept. 2. The brokerage maintained its “buy” rating on the construction firm, citing stronger earnings and cash flow visibility from its participation in the government’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) program. Megawide’s initial 16,700 units under the 4PH program are expected to generate more than P28.3 billion in additional revenue from the second half of 2026 to 2028, First Metro said. The program is expected to account for 36 percent of Megawide’s revenue by 2028. “The MWIDE story has evolved from balance sheet repair into a 4PH-led transformation narrative,” First Metro said. “Together with ongoing
deleveraging and the potential establishment of regular dividends, we believe 4PH supports a higher valuation multiple and a firmer valuation floor for MWIDE,” it said. Megawide earlier partnered with Pag-IBIG Fund to implement 4PH housing projects. Under the partnership, Pag-IBIG will invest P10 billion through perpetual preferred shares to support at least 7,000 affordable housing units over the next two to three years. The partnership should also improve cash flow because collections will be tied to construction milestones and supported by Pag-IBIG-linked financing, First Metro said. The P10-billion funding will also give Megawide an initial base for its broader affordable housing expansion. The company aims to develop 100,000 units over the long term, with the first 50,000 already identified in its fiveyear pipeline.
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B3 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com
PH unveils new semiconductor hub roadmap T
HE Philippine government launched a roadmap this week to expand the country’s semiconductor and electronics industry, targeting $110 billion in annual exports by 2030 through investments in chip design, engineering and research.
Semiconductor and Electronics Industry Advisory Council (SEIAC) chairperson and Executive Secretary Ralph Recto unveiled the Philippine Semiconductor and Electronics Industry (PSEI) Roadmap on Sept. 2, saying the initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to position the Philippines as a global hub for the sector. The government wants to move the industry beyond assembly and manufacturing into higher-value activities, Recto said. By 2030, the government aims to raise the Philippines’ share of global semiconductor assembly, test and packaging to 7 percent from 4 percent, capture 4 percent of the global electronics manufacturing services market and build an integrated circuit design sector generating $2 billion to $3 billion in annual exports. Recto said the semiconductor and electronics industry would serve as a key driver of the Luzon Economic Corridor, reinforcing the Philip-
pines’ role in global technology and supply chains. The sector already accounts for more than 60 percent of Philippine merchandise exports and generates over $45 billion annually, he said. “Whether we act or not, this industry will continue to expand. And we must grow with it. That is the direction President Marcos Jr. has set for us,” Recto said. As SEIAC chairperson, Recto said the government would focus on removing barriers to investment and expansion, including shortages of engineers and skilled workers, gaps in power, water and logistics infrastructure, slow permitting and regulatory bottlenecks. Recto said the roadmap’s technical working groups would be held to specific targets and timelines. “A roadmap is only as good as its execution. We have enough good plans in government. What the industry needs from us now are results,” Recto said.
The Semiconductor and Electronics Industry Advisory Council (SEIAC), led by its chairperson and Executive Secretary Ralph Recto (front row, center), launches the Philippine Semiconductor and Electronics Industry (PSEI) Roadmap on Sept. 2, 2026. With Recto during the launch are Department of Finance Secretary Frederick Go; Department of Economy, Planning and Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan; Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo; Department of Education Undersecretary Rafaelita Aldaba; Commission on Higher Education Chairperson Shirley Agrupis; Technical Education and Skills Development Authority director-general Jose Francisco Benitez; Bases Conversion and Development Authority chairman Jerry Marasigan; and Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) director-general Tereso Panga.
DOE: P60b needed to de-risk full PH geothermal potential By Alena Mae S. Flores THE Department of Energy said it would need around P60 billion to de-risk the country’s entire remaining geothermal potential of 2,000 megawatts, far exceeding the P10.07 billion already approved for a facility that covers only 300 MW of new projects. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin made the disclosure at the 7th Philippine International Geothermal Conference, where she said the Philippines has 2,057 MW of installed geothermal capacity, accounting for 6.4 percent of electricity generation in 2025. She added that an estimated 2,100 MW in additional potential remains to be explored and developed. Garin said the recently-approved Philippine Geothermal Resource Derisking Facility, worth P10.07 billion, covers only 300 MW of greenfield power projects.
“It’s P10 billion. It’s good enough only for 300 MW… Imagine if you want the whole 2,000 MW… that will be P60 billion. That’s a huge amount,” Garin said. The DOE described the PGRDF as a landmark initiative designed to accelerate geothermal development, attract private sector investment and strengthen long-term energy security through indigenous renewable energy. The Economy and Development Council approved the facility during its 10th meeting, chaired by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The facility establishes a government-backed financing mechanism to lower financial risks during geothermal exploration, the most capitalintensive and uncertain phase of development. Through a cost-sharing arrangement for exploration drilling, it aims to encourage developers to pursue new projects and expand the country’s clean energy pipeline.
DOE seeks to end Visayas grid alerts before Christmas THE Department of Energy aims to end the red and yellow power alerts in the Visayas grid before Christmas, betting on the arrival of battery energy storage system (BESS) projects and power barges this month, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said. Garin said she expects the grid alerts to ease this month as roughly 250 megawatts of BESS capacity comes online. “This month, it will be reduced— not fully, because we’ve made simulations of just about 50 percent at 250 MW of batteries. But it cannot be zero, because battery is storage, not new energy,” she said. She said the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines expects to sign contracts for the BESS projects within the month. “And then as we speak, we’ve already talked to some companies to bring in diesel plants like barges or some of the diesel plants that are there. So that’s the next step,” Garin said. The DOE is working to eliminate the alerts before the end of the year, she said. “I think within the year we will be able [to end the alerts] because the barges will come in. Barges take months for them to move,” Garin said. “I will work on it so that it is really well before Christmas. It’s not easy but that’s the target,” she said. Garin said the DOE has also planned baseload power plants to come online from 2028 to 2030, which will strengthen the Visayas grid’s energy position. The DOE is also monitoring the Mindanao grid after several plants went offline. “If Mindanao goes bad, then Visayas will go worse. So that’s why we need to balance it all. In the portfolio, we have so many power plants beyond what we need. But many of these power plants are old or not functioning very well,” Garin said. Alena Mae S. Flores
ENDURING PARTNERSHIP. Finance Secretary Frederick Go receives Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya for a farewell courtesy call, expressing appreciation for his contributions to strengthening economic cooperation between the Philippines and Japan.
DA eyes China smart farming technologies By Othel V. Campos THE Department of Agriculture is exploring potential cooperation with China on smart farming technologies as the Philippines seeks to modernize agricultural production, improve farm productivity and bridge technology gaps. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. led a Philippine delegation on Aug. 24 to Zhejiang Huihong Fruit and Vegetable Farm in Zhejiang province, where officials examined digital systems for crop monitoring, resource management and farm operations. “We have to modernize agriculture, and we have to find the right technology that will allow us to leapfrog,” Tiu Laurel said, citing the need to identify technologies that can be adapted to Philippine conditions. Zhejiang Huihong Biotechnology Co. Ltd. founder Zheng Yunyu presented options for a farm’s smart agriculture data platform that integrates environmental monitoring, water and fertilizer management and real-time production data. The Philippine delegation also toured the farm’s greenhouses and observed fruit and vegetable cultivation practices, including green protection and precision management techniques. A meeting covered the farm’s industrial operations, quality control systems and ecological planting models, as well as potential cooperation in agricultural technology and fruit and vegetable production. The Department of Agriculture said potential cooperation could include technology transfer and industry partnerships in precision agriculture, crop protection and ecological farming. Tiu Laurel said there was broad room for Philippine-China cooperation and expressed interest in turning the exchange into practical collaboration. The Philippines seeks to raise agricultural productivity amid climate risks, resource constraints and uneven access to modern farm technologies.
DMCI Mining says on track to hit 3m tons of nickel ore target this year DMCI Mining said Thursday it is on track to meet its 2026 target of 3 million metric tons of nickel ore production, as operations in Palawan and Zambales sustain output despite seasonal weather disruptions. DMCI Mining president Tulsi Das Reyes said the company had already shipped about 1 million tons from its Long Point operation in Palawan in three months, while its Zambales operations had produced about 1.6 million tons for the year. “We’re on track for this year,” Reyes said, expressing confidence that the company will meet its 3-million-ton target. Production in Zambales is expected to slow temporarily amid heavy rain, with operations typically stopping seasonally before resuming in the fourth quarter. In Palawan, shipments are also expected to taper toward year-end. DMCI Mining sees room to
increase output well beyond 2026 as its Zambales chromite operation is expected to scale up, potentially adding about 1 million tons, while Zambales Diversified Metals Corp. is nearing completion of its final mine rehabilitation phase. Reyes said the group’s production next year will likely remain around 3 million tons unless it opens a new mine or secures additional opportunities to expand capacity. The company said it is also keeping its production mix flexible depending on market conditions. In a weaker market, it could favor higher-grade ore, while stronger demand could allow it to sell more lower-grade material to boost volumes. Demand remains firm, particularly from China-linked markets. Reyes said the first half of 2026 was focused largely on Indonesia, but China is expected to account for the majority of shipments in the second half. Othel V. Campos
EMPLOYEE WELFARE. Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner
Charlito Martin Mendoza meets with Civil Service Commission (CSC) field office director Hans Alcantara on Aug. 11, 2026 to discuss efficient coordination on various civil service concerns affecting BIR personnel. The meeting underscored the BIR’s support for initiatives promoting employee welfare and engagement, consistent with the Employee Empowerment and Welfare Promotion pillar of the BIR DARES reform agenda.
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor
SMC wants Agus-Pulangi hydro By Alena Mae S. Flores
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AN Miguel Corp. has submitted an unsolicited proposal to rehabilitate the Agus-Pulangi Hydropower Plant Complex in Mindanao, the company and state-owned Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. confirmed Thursday.
Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. president Dennis Dela Serna confirmed receipt of the offer and said the agency expects to conduct a competitive challenge and award the project in 2027. “We have awarded them original proponent status under the PPP Code,” Dela Serna said. “We are following the PPP Code process that requires ICC and EDC
approval and a competitive challenge,” he said. San Miguel Corp. president Ramon Ang, asked about the proposal, confirmed the company’s plan to rehabilitate the project. Department of Energy Undersecretary Mario Marasigan earlier said the government is pursuing the rehabilitation under the public-private partnership framework, which requires
approval from the PPP Center. Work on the plant complex is expected to proceed in phases from 2028 to 2032. “We don’t want generation to be affected,” Marasigan said. PSALM manages the assets and liabilities of the National Power Corp., including the Agus-Pulangi facilities. Marasigan said the winning bidder will sell the plant’s output under a profit-sharing agreement with the agency. The complex includes the 260-megawatt Agus 1 and 2 hydro projects in Lanao del Sur, the 213MW Agus 4 and 5 projects and 273-MW Agus 6 and 7 projects in Lanao del Norte and the 255MW Pulangi 4 hydro project in Bukidnon.
By Thony Rose Lesaca
PSALM president Dennis Dela Serna
GCC industry seen growing faster this year By Othel V. Campos THE Philippines is poised for faster expansion of global capability centers (GCCs), according to an industry report. The workforce in the sector is expected to rise from about 200 centers employing 270,000 professionals in 2025 to 289,000 this year. The report by Colliers, the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) and ZMG Ward Howell said the Philippines remains the world’s second-largest GCC delivery location as multinational companies move higher-value functions such as analytics, finance, engineering, cybersecurity, healthcare, technology and digital transformation to the country. The shift is positioning the Philippines’ traditional role as a cost-efficient outsourcing destination toward a strategic hub for knowledgeintensive and transformation-oriented work. The IT-BPM industry employed 1.89 million Filipinos and generated $40.3 billion in revenue in 2025, equivalent to more than 8 percent of gross domestic product. Its share of global IT-BPM services headcount rose to 17 percent from 15 percent in 2022. GCC expansion is also boosting demand for office space, accounting for 11 percent of the IT-BPM sector’s 295,000 square meters of office takeup in 2025, while GCC transactions jumped 67 percent year-on-year. Expansions of existing centers accounted for about 68 percent of transactions, while new entrants made up 32 percent. GCCs typically require larger spaces, averaging 3,000 square meters, making them ideal tenants for Grade A and campus-style developments.
DBM releases over P8.6b for teacher career program
DOUBLE VICTORY. China Banking Corp. achieves a double victory at the 22nd Philippine Quill Awards for its investor relations program and marketing campaign for its redesigned mobile app. The bank’s triumphs anchored a 15-Quill haul for the SM Group, which saw fellow member companies BDO Unibank, BDO Life, SM Foundation and SM Supermalls also recognized at the prestigious communications awards. Shown during the awarding ceremony on Aug. 27, 2026 at the Solaire Resort in Parañaque City are (from left) CBC corporate communications officer Hershey Villegas, marketing communications head Aileen Vallesteros, senior marketing consultant Nita Claravall, investor and corporate relations group head Gerald Florentino and investor relations officer Vicky Quisido.
THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said Thursday it approved the release of an additional P8.68 billion for the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Expanded Career Progression (ECP) system. The funding will cover salary differentials for qualified personnel whose positions have been reclassified under the ECP system, which expands opportunities for public school teachers to advance professionally and receive higher compensation. The recipients include personnel with issued Notices of Organization, Staffing and Compensation Action and appointments for fiscal years 2025 and 2026. The amount is chargeable against DepEd’s built-in personnel services lump-sum appropriations for 2026 and is expected to benefit 93,344 reclassified positions nationwide, the budget agency said. Budget Secretary Kim Robert De Leon said the release translates the government’s career progression reforms into concrete benefits for teachers and other qualified public school personnel who have earned advancement in their profession. “This P8.68-billion release means more than 93,000 qualified public school personnel can receive the compensation that comes with their reclassified positions. They worked hard for this career advancement, so they should also feel the benefits of it,” he said. DBM regional offices will process and facilitate the fund releases to their respective DepEd regional offices to ensure the proper and timely implementation of salary upgrades, the agency said. “We want teaching to be a profession where our educators can build a rewarding, lifelong career. A great teacher should not have to leave the classroom just to have the opportunity to advance,” De Leon said.
DICT to push ASEAN-wide big tech accountability on scams, harmful content By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said it will push for stronger Big Tech accountability across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to address harmful online content, scams and other digital threats. DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said the Philippines plans to raise the issue in upcoming ASEAN meetings, building on recent engagements with technology platforms Meta and Roblox in Singapore. Aguda said the Philippines cannot deal with these challenges alone, and neither can any ASEAN member state. “What we achieved in Singapore shows that engagement can produce results, but ASEAN acting together can achieve much more,” Aguda said. He said the Singapore engagements demonstrated the potential of govern-
AREIT appoints Carballo as COO
AREIT Inc. has appointed Eduardo Javier Carballo as chief operating officer effective Sept. 7, as the real estate investment trust firm moves to strengthen its capital markets capabilities. AREIT said in a statement Thursday that Carballo brings more than 25 years of experience in debt capital markets, treasury strategy, investment banking and large-scale financing across Asia-Pacific, the United States, Europe and emerging markets. The appointment will strengthen AREIT’s capabilities in financing strategy, portfolio management, governance and organizational execution as the company expands its portfolio and broadens its sources of capital, the company said. “Javi brings deep expertise in capital markets and financing, as well as a strong understanding of institutional investors and financial markets,” said AREIT president and chief executive Alberto de Larrazabal. “His experience will be valuable as we continue to grow AREIT and create long-term value for our stakeholders,” he. Before joining AREIT, Carballo served as Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank managing director and head of debt capital markets for Southeast Asia and India in Singapore from 2022 to June 2026. He previously led the bank’s debt capital markets business in Hong Kong and held a senior debt capital markets origination role in New York. Jenniffer B. Austria
COREnergy to power more McDonald’s stores COREnergy, the retail electricity arm of Vivant Energy, will supply power to 23 more McDonald’s restaurants across the Visayas and Mindanao, expanding its partnership with the fast-food chain as it looks to manage operating costs while keeping prices affordable for customers. The new agreement covers 10 restaurants in Leyte and Western Visayas and 13 restaurants across Northern Mindanao and the Davao Region, representing a combined contestable load of 2.2 megawatts. The addition brings the total number of McDonald’s stores powered by COREnergy to 59. “Behind every successful quick-service restaurant is an operation powered by reliable energy,” COREnergy president Francis del Val said. “We want to take the complexity out of power so businesses like McDonald’s can focus on what they do best—serving customers, growing their operations and creating new opportunities,” he said.
ment-platform cooperation and could provide a foundation for broader regional mechanisms on digital accountability. “We now have an opportunity to build on that momentum through ASEAN and develop clearer regional mechanisms for accountability, faster response and stronger protection of our citizens,” Aguda said. Scam Watch Pilipinas called on ASEAN member states to form a stronger collective front in dealing with global technology platforms. The group urged the Philippines to lead discussions on digital sovereignty and use the ASEAN framework to strengthen regional accountability for harmful content, online scams, fraudulent advertisements, misinformation and other cross-border digital threats. Scam Watch Pilipinas Co-founder Jocel De Guzman said the Philippines should lead this discussion.
IN BRIEF Del Val said greater control and predictability over energy costs let companies focus on improving operations and customer service. The expansion builds on a partnership announced earlier this year, advancing McDonald’s nationwide growth and COREnergy’s effort to help businesses simplify energy management. Alena Mae S. Flores
5 innovations win presidential awards FIVE Filipino innovations won the 2026 Presidential Filipinnovation Awards National Competition on Thursday, beating 16 finalists from across the country. The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), which serves as secretariat of the National Innovation Council (NIC), said the winners were chosen for their alignment with the 10 priority areas of the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document (NIASD) 20232032. The winning entries were a compact, easy-to-operate and economical biodiesel reactor from Capistrano Research and Development on Biotechnology for Benteng Diesel; a set of scientific innovations for the Philippine native chicken industry from Golden Sprout Corp.; the Saltric Marissa Turbine, which turns rivers into round-the-clock power for off-grid Filipino communities, from PDG Engineering Services; a gasification process for waste disposal called Advance Waste Solution from Vic Metal Fabrication and Environmental Services Inc.; and OstreaVent2, a prototype ventilator for mechanically ventilated adult patients, from Breath of Life Foundation Inc. Judges evaluated entries for innovativeness, sustainability, scalability and marketability, and potential impact and relevance, regardless of industry or technical focus. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who chairs the NIC, personally conferred the awards, presenting each winner with a medallion and a plaque bearing the president’s seal, citation and signature. The awardees also received cash grants worth a combined P3.5 million and post-competition support to help accelerate the development and commercialization of their innovations.
PARTNERSHIP RENEWAL. Lufthansa Technik and Emirates reaffirm their long-standing partnership by extending their agreement for the base maintenance of the airline’s Airbus A380 fleet. Under a new multi-year contract, Lufthansa Technik Philippines, the global MRO company’s competence center for widebody base maintenance in Asia, will continue to perform heavy checks on Emirates’ A380 aircraft through 2030. Shown is one of Emirates’ Airbus A380s. Courtesy of Emirates
Next 2 phases of LRT-1 extension project expected to start this year CONSTRUCTION of the remaining two phases of Light Rail Transit-1 Cavite Extension Project is expected to start this year, acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez told lawmakers during a Department of Transportation (DOTr) budget hearing, an assurance welcomed by Las Piñas District Rep. Mark Anthony Santos. Lopez said construction of the railway extension will commence before the end of the year. He commended Santos for closely monitoring the multibillion-peso project, which the lawmaker has pushed for nearly six years, including during his previous tenure as a city councilor. “We welcome Secretary Lopez’s commitment that construction will finally begin within the year. For the people of Las Piñas, this is more than a government project—it is a longawaited promise of faster, safer and more reliable transportation,” Santos said. The signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) among the DOTr, Villar Group, Light Rail Transit Au-
thority (LRTA) and Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) is now expected to take place in September to resolve the right-of-way issue affecting the project’s alignment. Santos said repeated delays have forced commuters from Las Piñas, Bacoor and other parts of Cavite to endure long travel times and worsening traffic congestion. Phase 1 of the extension is already operational, connecting Baclaran Station in Pasay City to Dr. Santos Station in Parañaque City. The remaining Cavite leg, covering Phases 2 and 3, includes three stations yet to be built: Las Piñas, Zapote and Niog. “Our commuters have heard promises of completion for years. What they need now is not another promise but actual construction, workers on the ground and measurable progress,” Santos said. The lawmaker urged the DOTr, LRTA and LRMC to immediately resolve remaining legal, technical, right-of-way or administrative concerns that could further delay the project.
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extrastory2000@gmail.com Darwin G. Amojelar, Issue Editor
Mobility shapes Filipinos’ daily life M obility is more than getting people from one place to another—it shapes the daily lives of Filipinos, according to industry leaders.
Mohit Malhi, chief operating officer of MWM Terminals Inc., said reducing the number of transfers is important because every additional transfer can become another point of difficulty for commuters, especially when disruptions occur. “Our vision is that you can reach from PITX [ Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange] to anywhere in Metro Manila, ideally in one or at most two transfers,” Malhi said. He described mobility as the “invisible infrastructure” supporting economic activity. Workers need to reach their jobs, businesses need employees to operate, and retailers need customers to reach their stores. One example came from the connection between the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) and the LRT-1 Cavite Extension. Jaime Raphael Feliciano, president of MWM Terminals Inc. and chief business development officer of Megawide Group, said PITX observed a change in its evening passenger peak after the rail connection opened. The peak shifted from around 7 p.m. to 6 p.m., suggesting that some commuters traveling onward to Cavite were reaching the terminal earlier. But Feliciano said the importance of the change goes beyond shorter travel times.
“That means that they have an extra hour for their family, for rest, for leisure. And imagine that compounding every single day,” he said. The Department of Transportation is also pushing for stronger integration among the country’s different modes of transport. Joanna May Macaranas, director IV of the DOTr Road Infrastructure for Management Information System Service, said the direction is toward making transfers among road, rail, maritime and aviation networks more seamless, safe, reliable and accessible. PITX offers an example of how different modes can converge within one transport environment. The LRT1 connection adds another option for commuters traveling between Metro Manila and Cavite, while allowing passengers to connect more easily with other destinations. But infrastructure alone cannot guarantee a resilient transport system. Geoel Anthony Esguerra, data management specialist at the University of the Philippines National Center for Transportation Studies, said transport data and modeling can help planners identify vulnerable areas, anticipate disruptions and determine alternative routes before emergencies occur. The objective is to allow transport agencies and operators to prepare for
Jaime Raphael Feliciano, president of MWM Terminals Inc.
disruptions instead of simply reacting once they happen. For employers, access to transportation is increasingly becoming part of the decision about where to locate. Edward Gador, associate director for commercial leasing at Leechiu Property Consultants, said companies are considering not only the quality of an office building but also how easily employees can reach it. “Accessibility and getting to work is definitely a key factor in deciding where these companies go,” Gador said. The issue is particularly significant for industries that depend on large workforces. Ian Madrid, chief executive officer of S.P. Madrid Corporation, said mobility directly affects business continuity. The technology-driven BPO company, an existing tenant at THE
OFFIX at PITX, depends on employees being able to reach the workplace consistently. For businesses operating in industries with strict data privacy and security requirements, moving entirely to work-from-home arrangements may not always be possible when transportation disruptions occur. As a result, the reliability and length of employees’ commutes can become an operational consideration for companies. S.P. Madrid has already expanded its presence at THE OFFIX and sees further room for growth at PITX. “Maybe the next big dream is really to take an entire building here in PITX,” Madrid said. For retailers, the connection between mobility and business can be even more immediate. CJ Jesena, managing director of Global Robot Coffee, said disruptions that prevent customers from reaching stores can quickly translate into lost sales. The effects can also fall directly on workers. Employees under “no work, no pay” arrangements may lose income simply because they cannot reach their workplace. That creates a chain reaction: a transport disruption affects the commuter, which affects the workplace, which affects business activity and eventually the broader economy. In this sense, transportation is not merely a support service for the economy. It is part of the system that allows the economy to function. Bryant Wong, disaster risk reduction and management officer chief
Mohit Malhi, chief operating officer of MWM Terminals Inc.,
of Pasig City, emphasized the importance of coordination among local governments, transport operators and transport facilities before and during emergencies. That includes identifying roads that are vulnerable to flooding, establishing alternative routes and using realtime weather and road information to guide operators and the public. For Marie Ann Santerva, Administrative Manager of Ceres Transport, resilience from an operator’s perspective means being prepared to continue serving passengers when conditions change. She said operators maintain backup buses and put passenger safety first during accidents and disruptions. For long-haul trips, severe weather can also leave passengers stranded at ports, requiring operators to provide assistance until travel can safely resume. Darwin G. Amojelar
CEB launches Foundation to help build stronger communities MARINA seeks P250-m funding to overhaul digital THE Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) is seeking about P250 million in funding to modernize its aging digital infrastructure and establish a dedicated disaster recovery system following a recent cybersecurity incident that exposed vulnerabilities in its existing systems. MARINA said its current digital infrastructure, which dates back to 2017, has yet to undergo a comprehensive technical refresh. The agency also does not have a dedicated disaster recovery system that can immediately take over if its primary systems suffer a major disruption. The recent cybersecurity incident has underscored the need to upgrade the agency’s technology infrastructure as it works to ensure the continuity and security of digital services for the country’s maritime and seafaring sector. MARINA said it detected multiple suspicious activities involving its systems but found no data loss or indication that personal information had been accessed or obtained. “There was no loss of data, walang nakuhang data. Maraming attempts, maraming suspicious activities. Hindi nakuha ang personal data ninyo [seafarers],” MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan said. The agency took the affected system offline as a precaution after detecting repeated suspicious attempts. MARINA is seeking about P150 million for a nationwide technology refresh covering the replacement of outdated hardware and software updates. MARINA said it had already identified the need to modernize its infrastructure as early as 2024 and had been requesting funding for the upgrade since then, but the proposed budget was not made available.
CEBU Pacific is extending its long-standing spirit of connection beyond air travel with the launch of the Cebu Pacific Foundation Inc. (CPFI) as part of its 30th-anniversary milestone. The Foundation’s mission is to support resilience and advance sustainable tourism through naturebased solutions. It will work with the local organizations, private sector, civil society, development institutions, and the government to reduce disaster and climate risks, protect ecosystems, strengthen livelihoods, and create opportunities for sustainable local economies. “For three decades, Cebu Pacific has connected people, places, and opportunities. Through our Foundation, we hope to build on that role by connecting people on the ground with the institutions, expertise, and resources they need to protect the natural environments that sustain them and create better opportunities for their families,” Xander Lao, CPFI chairman and president said. The Foundation’s first major project, the Resilience & Inclusive Support for Empowerment of Capiz Coastal Communities Project (RISE Capiz Coast
Representatives from KACUSA and Futures Inc., who will oversee the coastal restoration project, gather for a photo. From left: Elezandra Almeida, Joanna Clarito, Amy Alcazaren, Christopher Dasal, and Charon Fabrigar of KACUSA; Camille Vergara, project manager, Futures Inc.; Pocholo Espina, country manager, Futures Inc.; and Jean Racraquin of KACUSA.
Project), will commence in Barangay Culajao, Roxas City, before expanding to other areas in the city and the municipalities of Ivisan and Panay in Capiz. It aims to restore 100 hectares of degraded coastal areas through mangrove rehabilitation, with a goal of reaching 500 hectares by 2030. Beyond ecosystem restoration, the project will provide capacity-building in livelihoods, DRRCCA, and other interventions tailored to the needs of people who depend on the coast. For Katunggan sa Culajao Salbaron Association, Inc. (KACUSA), which leads local stewardship efforts in Brgy. Culajao, the project is also an opportunity to restore ecosystems and livelihoods affected by Typhoon Yolanda. “We were greatly affected by Typhoon Yolanda, disrupting our eco-tourism activities and our income sources. We are grateful and hopeful that this partnership will not only restore our mangrove forests, but also help revive tourism, strengthen our economic situation, and create new opportunities for our families,” Christopher Dasal, KACUSA president said.
AirAsia signs first-ever codeshare deal with Pegasus Airlines AIRASIA has forged its first-ever codeshare partnership with Türkiye’s largest low-cost carrier, Pegasus Airlines, linking Southeast Asia and Europe through Istanbul. The alliance marries AirAsia’s extensive Asian footprint with Pegasus’ broad European network via the Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen hub. This strategic move advances AirAsia’s vision of evolving into the world’s first low-cost network carrier while reinforcing Kuala Lumpur’s stature as a premier international gateway.
Initially rolling out over 100 combined routes between Asia and Europe, the partnership launches with connectivity to five European destinations: London Stansted, Moscow Vnukovo, Ankara Esenboğa, Zurich, and Athens. Travelers can transit through Istanbul on a single booking, benefiting from checked-through baggage to final destinations without rechecking during transit. To support this expanded corridor, AirAsia is ramping up its Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul (KUL-SAW) flights from
four to seven times weekly by February 2027. The bilateral agreement also allows European travelers to fly into Kuala Lumpur and seamlessly connect via AirAsia’s Fly-Thru network to destinations across ASEAN, Asia, and Australia. Bo Lingam, AirAsia Group chief executive said d that the landmark partnership highlights the airline’s 25th-anniversary evolution into a global travel network, leveraging Pegasus’ presence across 160 destinations in 56 countries.
2GO Group relocates corporate headquarters to MOA Complex
2GO Group Inc.’s new corporate headquarters situated in FourE-Com Center, Pasay City
2GO Group Inc., the Philippines’ leading shipping and logistics solutions provider, has relocated its corporate headquarters to FourE-Com Center within the MOA Complex in Pasay City, marking a strategic milestone that reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to operational excellence, employee experience, and sustainable growth. “This is a deliberate business decision that was driven by a clear vision for where the company is headed,” Will Howell, chief operating officer and chief financial officer of 2GO Group, Inc. said. “It is anchored on creating a workplace that supports our people, strengthens collaboration, and enables the next phase of
2GO’s growth,” he added. 2GO’s new headquarters offers a significantly enhanced workplace experience with modern facilities, professionally managed environment, and future-ready infrastructure providing a stronger foundation for the company’s evolving operational requirements. At the heart of the relocation is 2GO’s continued investment in its people. Recognizing that the workplace plays a vital role in fostering innovation, collaboration, and organizational culture, the new office has been designed to support greater cross-functional engagement and provide employees with an environment where
they can perform at their best. The move also reflects the company’s broader commitment to excellence. As one of the Philippines’ leading transportation and logistics providers, 2GO believes its workplace should embody the same standards of quality, professionalism, and reliability that it delivers to customers and partners across the country. “As we continue to transform the business, we believe our workplace should evolve alongside us,” Howell added. “Our new home at FourE-Com is more than a new office—it is an investment in our people, our culture, and our ability to deliver greater value to our customers and stakeholders.”
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
In ‘Saving Cherry,’ Barbie Forteza is fearless, funny, and fabulously awkward Barbie Forteza’s Cherry leans on her mismatched friends as the film turns a provocative premise into a story about self-worth
W
HAT do you do when you have spent years protecting your virginity, vowing to give it only to your husband on your wedding night, only for your entire life to come crashing down when you catch your newlywed husband in the act? Yes, this plot is practically made for the movies. And that is how Cherry’s story begins in Saving Cherry, Regal Entertainment’s latest offering, starring Barbie Forteza as a conservative career woman determined to save her virginity for her wedding night. The sexy comedy-light drama, directed by Ivan Andrew Payawal, opened in more than 160 cinemas nationwide on Sept. 2. Khalil Ramos plays Jude, Cherry’s husband. When Cherry discovers Jude’s infidelity on their wedding night, she immediately calls it quits. Furious and heartbroken, she turns to her four mismatched friends, played by Mika Salamanca, Mikee Quintos, AC Bonifacio and Sassa Gurl, for a wild mission to reclaim control of her destiny and finally lose her virginity. It sounds outrageous. And that is precisely where Saving Cherry finds its charm. Forteza admitted that Cherry is her most daring and bravest role yet, and Regal Entertainment president Roselle Monteverde could not agree more. At the film’s red-carpet premiere held on Sept. 1 at Gateway Cinemas, Monteverde revealed that the movie took almost three years to complete, partly because the team had to convince Forteza to take on the role and then wait for her schedule to free up. The wait was worth it. Forteza delivers a performance that is fearless, funny, and occasionally deliciously over-the-top. In scenes where Cherry is required to turn up the sex appeal, Forteza deliberately leans into the awkwardness. Because this is a comedy, what could have been excessive instead becomes part of the joke. She weaponizes her attractiveness against a series of awkward and often cringe-worthy situations, and the result is one of the film’s biggest sources of entertainment.
Barbie Forteza leads a story about heartbreak, friendship, and female agency without letting its humor lose bite
From left: Mikee Quintos, Sassa Gurl, Mika Salamanca, and AC Bonifacio give Barbie Forteza’s (center) barkada in the film its comic rhythm and emotional pull
But Saving Cherry is not all bedroom jokes and comic mishaps. There are dramatic scenes, too, and Forteza handles them with surprising ease. Her amusing debut in this kind of role allows the film to explore comedy, feminism, and sexuality without becoming weighed down by its more serious themes. Payawan wisely uses comedy as a way to make those themes easier to digest. Beneath the laughs is a story about a woman choosing herself instead of allowing society to dictate what she should accept. One of the film’s strongest moments comes when Cherry asks: “Ganyan ba
Barbie Forteza takes on her boldest comedy role yet as the titular character in ‘Saving Cherry,’ who learns to choose herself after a disastrous wedding night
kayong lahat na mga lalake? Dapat bang tanggapin yun dahil yun ang norm? Okay lang makipag sex sa iba, dahil sex lang yun?” The line captures Cherry’s conservative beliefs about sex and virginity, particularly her decision to preserve it as a gift for her husband, only to have that devotion taken for granted. But the message extends beyond virginity. Cherry’s story becomes an argument for standing by what you believe in, even when others tell you that your choices are outdated, unusual, or wrong. Ramos, meanwhile, proves that
Miss Supranational 2026 Katrina Llegado returns to a glorious welcome
SANS a planned victory parade, newly crowned Miss Supranational 2026 Ma. Katrina Llegado has returned to the country from Poland, where she captured the country’s second Miss Supranational title after thirteen years, the first major win for the country this year. Llegado arrived with her counterpart, Mister Supranational 2026 Pedro Cordero of Spain. “Thank you very much, everyone, for your love and support. I’m finally back after a whole month of journey in Miss Supranational. I’m excited to celebrate this victory with all of you. Please join me in our coming activities until September 7. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas, Mabuhay ang Supranational,” Llegado, wearing a glittering purple dress, said during the jampacked victory press conference held at Hilton Manila on Saturday. “To my daughter Katrina, you have not only worn the Miss Supranational crown with elegance, but you have also carried the hopes and dreams of the Filipino people with courage and humility,” Llegado’s mother said during the jampacked homecoming event. Llegado was warmly welcomed by The Miss Philippines Organization Vice Chairperson & CEO Paolo Arevalo, Empire Ph President Jonas Antonio Gaffud, and MUPH executive
an effective performance does not have to be loud. His restrained and sincere portrayal of Jude makes his betrayal all the more believable, and it is easy to understand why Forteza has called him her best leading man yet, a comment that later went viral on social media. The supporting cast also adds considerable personality. Mikee Quintos, AC Bonifacio, Mika Salamanca, and Sassa Gurl make Cherry’s barkada feel lived-in rather than assembled purely for comic relief. Their banter has a natural rhythm, and their friendship gives the film another emotional anchor.
The wider ensemble, including JC Alcantara, Joey Marquez, Kokoy de Santos, and Easy Ferrer, keeps the energy consistently lively. Saving Cherry may begin with a deliberately provocative premise, but underneath its sex jokes and chaotic situations is a surprisingly sincere story about heartbreak, friendship, female agency and learning to choose yourself. It does not ask Cherry to abandon her beliefs. It asks her to decide what those beliefs mean to her now. And that makes this particular wedding-night disaster much more entertaining than it has any right to be.
FranSeth’s ‘A Cake to Remember’ serves up 7.5 million views
Supranational 2026 winners Pedro Cordero (left) Katrina Llegado join the homecoming program at Hilton Manila after their title wins in Poland
Katrina Llegado sets her reign around women’s entrepreneurship, cultural pride, and upcoming activities with Filipino supporters
FRANCINE Diaz and Seth Fedelin are proving once again that their onscreen chemistry has plenty of bite. Their new iWant vertical drama series, A Cake to Remember, has racked up more than 7.5 million views across its first five episodes, streaming free on iWant and ABS-CBN Entertainment’s Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube pages. Since its Aug. 28 premiere, the series has also made waves on X, with FRANSETH ACTR ON iWANT landing among the Philippines’ top 50 trending topics. The pair’s first vertical drama series is also among iWant’s most-watched shows. Produced by JRB Creative Production and directed by Emerald Silvestre, the romance short series follows Mandy (Diaz), a bakery owner struggling to keep her business afloat.
vice president Voltaire Tayag, along with Miss and Mister Supranational president & CEO Gerhard Parzutka von Lipinski and brand development consultant Werner Wessels. Also present were Mister Supranational 2026 Cordero, Mister Supranational Philippines 2026 Felipe Marasigan, and Miss Supranational Philippines 2027 Allyson Hetland. Second time’s a charm for the 28-year-old Llegado, who first represented the country abroad in Reina Hispanoamericana 2019 in Bolivia, where she placed as fifth runner-up. “All the organizations that I have worked with, from Miss World Philippines to Reina Hispanoamericana, MUPH and now Miss Supranational, have been very supportive. Reina
Hispanoamericana was really very challenging because all there were Spanish-speaking, while in Miss Supranational, it was like a family,” Llegado said when asked to compare her journey in the two international pageants. As Miss Supranational, Llegado will get to tour the globe to visit countries such as Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand. She aims to speak about her Miss Supra platform about creating opportunities for women through entrepreneurship, which she started in partnership with Project Pearl’s G.R.O.W. (Giving Resources and Opportunities to Women), a livelihood and empowerment program designed to help Filipino women living in poverty realize their value and reach their full potential.
Francine Diaz (left) and Seth Fedelin draw strong online turnout as their vertical drama reaches millions of views across its first five episodes
Her fortunes take an unexpected turn when she lands a lucrative wedding cake commission and discovers the groom is her former fiancé, Landon (Fedelin), who left her at the altar. There is one devastating complication: Landon has lost his memories of their romance following a tragic accident. Determined to make him remember before he marries someone else, Mandy hopes the cakes they once made and shared can unlock the past they lost. Part 1 of A Cake to Remember is now streaming on iWant, with Part 2 set to premiere Sept. 4. Viewers can watch the series through iWant subscription plans starting at P35 per month in the Philippines and $4.99 per month in the United States and other countries. The US price is a promotional rate until Oct. 31.
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026
George Lucas unveils art galaxy at his new LA museum GEORGE Lucas, the legendary creator of the Star Wars saga, on Wednesday showcased his longawaited Museum of Narrative Art, the culmination of nearly two decades of work and numerous obstacles. “I’m used to doing the impossible. This one almost broke my will,” Lucas said as he offered reporters a first glimpse inside, ahead of the museum’s official opening on September 22. Lucas, 82, has described the complex built with his wife and business partner, Mellody Hobson, as the “people’s temple of art.” “Part of the problem is I’m a contrarian. I don’t like to do things that
By Angelica Villanueva
J
AMES Reid has spent much of his music career figuring out what kind of artist he wants to be. His upcoming album suggests he may have reached a point where answering the question matters less than simply making music that feels true to him. At a recent listening party ahead of the record’s September release, James played the 10-track project from beginning to end. Most of the songs came from a two-week songwriting camp where he and his collaborators produced more than a dozen tracks. “I’ve gotten to a point where I feel so free in making these songs, where these songs are such an accurate reflection of what I’ve been going through in the past couple of years,” the singer-actor said. Love sits at the center of the album, with girlfriend Issa Pressman serving as its strongest inspiration. “I think when you have such a powerful feeling, a powerful muse, that’s where you start writing your best songs,” he shared. The opening track makes the sentiment immediately clear. Warm and intimate, it carries the feeling of finally returning to someone after a long day. He described coming home as the place where he feels most himself, and the song captures the comfort behind the statement. It is the kind of opener that can make a listener want to head home and hug their partner. By the third track, the album settles deeper into romance with one of its sweetest moments. The song feels soft, intimate, and effortless, with the vocals sitting beautifully against the production. Nothing feels overworked. It simply lets the affection come through, making it one of the easiest songs on the record to immediately warm up to. Elsewhere, James turns an everyday inconvenience into something unexpectedly tender. The song works because the frustration never overwhelms the affection underneath it. Instead, the delay becomes part of the longing, making the situation feel familiar without spelling everything out. “Sunny Side,” one of the songs already introduced ahead of the album, carries an easygoing retro warmth. Another track highlights what can make OPM love songs effective at their best: straightforward lyrics used to express gratitude for another person. James does not need elaborate metaphors here. The song works because of how plainly it communicates the feeling of being lucky to share life with someone. One of the album’s most affecting songs initially plays like an assurance between two people separated by distance. Its devotion is strong enough to make it sound almost ceremonial, even wedding-like, but the song carries another layer that becomes clearer with closer listening.
From left: DJ Jhai Ho, Ashley Rivera, and Baus Rufo bring showbiz, social media, and commentary together as the hosts of GTV’s new Sunday talk show
people think can be done,” he added. “I’m fascinated by doing things that people say can’t be done.” The futuristic-looking museum was built on what used to be a parking lot next to the University of Southern California, the filmmaker’s alma mater. That personal connection, combined with Los Angeles’s place at the heart of American cinema, made it the ideal home for the project, executive director Tracey Bates told AFP. At the entrance, visitors are greeted by the yellow Naboo N-1 starfighter from Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999), but with more than 9,300 square
meters of exhibition space, the offerings go far beyond the beloved saga. Its more than 30 galleries feature works by artists including Banksy, Frida Kahlo, Jacob Lawrence, Charles White and Robert Colescott; comics by Winsor McCay, Jack Kirby, and Frank Frazetta; and illustrations by Norman Rockwell, Jessie Willcox Smith, and N.C. Wyeth. “Narrative art is stories that are illustrated,” Bates said. “A story that you can see a picture in one frame, and it doesn’t need further explanation.” Lucas said he wanted to highlight the work of illustrators.
“A picture is very powerful, and the stories are very powerful, and you combine them together, and those two elements create a society,” he said. “And that’s why I wanted to build this, because, you know, narrative art creates a group of people with a common belief system, and that common belief system allows them to work together, not kill each other.” The museum’s unusual design—a green roof that blends into the surrounding landscape—is meant to offer a glimpse of the future and spark visitors’ curiosity, said Ma Yansong, the architect behind the project. AFP
Filmmaker George Lucas’ Museum of Narrative Art features his works spanning illustration, comics, fine art, and cinema
James Reid sounds more at ease on his most personal album yet collaboration with so many people I’ve worked with and the whole team,” he explained. The record eventually turns inward. Its closing song is lighter and quieter but emotionally heavier. Instead of ending with another declaration of devotion, James examines the identities, expectations, and flaws he has carried with him. He described the song as an exercise in becoming less burdened by the things he once thought defined him, a process of unlearning and getting closer to his core. The song lands differently after an album filled with love and reassurance. It raises a more difficult question about receiving affection while still confronting parts of yourself you may not fully accept. He admitted it was also one of the songs he felt most exposed about sharing. “I was like, wow, this is kind of personal. There was a lot of strength in being vulnerable and admitting to mistakes and admitting my flaws,” he added. The closing moments circle back musically to the beginning, giving the album a sense of completion. Home, by then, feels less like a location and more like a person, a future to look toward, and a version of James who no longer seems preoccupied with proving why he deserves his place in music. Earlier in his career, he said fame sometimes left him with imposter syndrome. “I haven’t done anything yet to earn this level of fame,” he recalled. He appears less burdened by the question now. “I feel like I’m James Reid now,” he said. James Reid opens up about love, vulnerability, and personal growth across the 10 tracks of his upcoming album James reveals that his upcoming album is inspired by his girlfriend Issa Pressman
He described the feeling behind it as “a love that transcends time and generation.” The song is best left to unfold on its own. What begins as a promise of finding one’s way back gradually feels broader, less concerned with distance itself than with the kind of love meant to outlive circumstance. Another song frames wealth in emotional rather than material terms. The sentiment is simple, but it fits the album’s recurring interest in love as something found in everyday life rather than in grand gestures. A later track reduces devotion to an
uncomplicated promise: wherever the other person may be, James will find his way there. It is one of the record’s more direct expressions of commitment and gives the second half a reassuring lift. Issa also helped shape parts of the album as James’ creative director and contributed to some of the writing. She recalled how he would come home with demos and play them loudly in their living room while they listened together. For James, collaboration has become central to how he approaches music. “I couldn’t have done this without everyone. I know my name is on the front of it, but really this is such a big
Years of experimenting with his sound bring James Reid to a record he considers an accurate reflection of his life over the past few years
Ashley Rivera, DJ Jai Ho, Baus Rufo lurk for the latest chika in ‘Kalurks’ ASHLEY Rivera, DJ Jhai Ho, and Baus Rufo are teaming up for Kalurks!, a new Sunday night talk show serving up the week’s hottest issues, viral stories and showbiz gossip. The GTV program premieres Sept. 13 and takes its name from the Pinoy slang “kaloka” and the word “lurker.” Its viewers, called “kalurkers,” are the new breed of “marites” who watch the drama unfold from the sidelines. The trio bring different perspectives to the weekly chismisan. DJ Jhai Ho is the Showbiz Kalurker, delivering the latest celebrity sto-
ries and entertainment issues. Baus Rufo, the SocMed Kalurker, keeps track of viral posts, online conversations and trending topics, while Rivera serves as the No Filter Kalurker, giving candid takes on hot showbiz and social media issues. The show will feature celebrity and viral guests, along with blind items involving showbiz, politics and other topics making waves. Catch Kalurks! every Sunday, 8:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. on GTV, with Global Pinoys able to watch via GMA Life TV.
LIFE
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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
By Jasper Valdez
P
HOTOGRAPHER Tom Epperson does not always head out with a picture already in mind. Sometimes, the subject finds him.
N O W & recalled once walkN ingHethrough Makati without E knowing what he wanted to photograph until he noX ticed people waiting at a stop. He began taking T bus pictures, returned over the
next few days, and eventually made around 200 images from the same ordinary setting. “I’m not the kind of person who walks out and says, ‘I have an idea in my head. I’m going to go do this.’ That never happens,” Epperson said. “These photographs happen very randomly, very spontaneously.” That kind of unplanned photography was at the center of a recent Smart Infinity Exclusives gathering with Huawei at Fable Café + Lounge, where guests tried the new Huawei Pura 90s Series. Each course of the six-course dinner doubled as a photography exercise, giving guests different subjects and lighting conditions to work with. For Epperson, who has worked as a professional photographer for decades, phone cameras were not always tools he took seriously. “To be quite frank, I never put too much weight on cameras on phones until about three years ago,” he said. His view of phone cameras has changed considerably in recent years,
Photographer Tom Epperson encourages photographers to rely on observation and spontaneity even as smartphones make sophisticated camera tools easier to carry
The Smart Infinity Exclusives gathering turns Fable Café + Lounge into a testing ground for mobile photography during a six-course dinner
The event features a six-course dinner with photography exercises, highlighting the phone’s AIpowered features and true-to-color capabilities
How smartphones are making photography more spontaneous to the point that on a recent trip to Japan, Epperson brought his cameras and tripod but left them in his hotel
Smart and Huawei executives gather as the collaboration puts mobile photography, connectivity, and instant sharing at the center of the experience
room and photographed the trip on a phone instead. The Pura 90s Series builds on that idea of having a capable camera ready when a moment presents itself, with features for zoom, color reproduction, and AI-assisted composition. “When you experience the product, you can see its AI-powered and trueto-color capabilities,” Huawei representative Forrest Tan said. The evening also reflected how taking a photo now often extends beyond the shutter. Images captured on the Pura 90s Pro were uploaded through Smart 5G and displayed on screens around the venue as the dinner went on. “From capturing stunning photos to instantly sharing their favorite moments, we want our customers to experience what’s possible when great devices are paired with great connectivity,” Smart First vice president and
officer-in-charge Lloyd Manaloto said. For Smart Infinity, the gathering was also part of a broader effort to build experiences around the services and technology available to its members. “Over the past year, we’ve been very deliberate in evolving the brand beyond a premium mobile plan, opening doors to privileges, services, and experiences that make life easier and, hopefully, a little more extraordinary,” Smart Infinity vice president and head Tina D. Montinola said. The technology may make taking, editing, and sharing a photograph easier, but Epperson still places much of the work on the person behind the camera. “What is photography? Really, it’s about seeing. You and I could be standing together looking at the same thing, but you’re going to see it differ-
ently. That’s what makes photography so special,” he said. Features such as AI-assisted composition can suggest another way to frame a scene, but Epperson sees them as additional tools rather than instructions a photographer has to follow. He described the feature as being “like having a coach or another set of eyes” on an image. For him, having the camera close at hand matters because the opportunity for a photograph does not always arrive with advance notice. “When I was much younger and getting into photography, I always told myself I should have a camera with me at all times,” Epperson said. A smartphone now makes that possible without carrying a separate camera. What ends up in the frame, however, still begins with noticing what is already there.
Why we need ‘The Notebook’ again
Why we need to watch beloved musical even when we already know the story THERE are love stories we watch or read once, and there are love stories we carry with us. The Notebook belongs to the second category. For many, Nicholas Sparks’ story of Noah and Allie is already familiar territory—the young lovers, the years apart, the impossible choices, the letters, the memories, and that painful question of whether love can survive everything life throws at it. The 2004 film became a modern romance classic, making Noah and Allie’s love story part of popular culture. In my case, I developed a huge crush on Ryan Gosling. So, why watch The Notebook again? Because this time, we get to see it through Filipino eyes. Theatre Group Asia’s The Notebook: The Musical, which opened on Sept. 3 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati, set the international premiere of the Broadway musical. Interestingly, the most exciting distinction about it is one that has little to do with Broadway at all. It is 100 percent Filipino in the people bringing it to life. As Filipino-American director Nicholas Polonio shared, it is not just the actors onstage. Not just the covers. The creative team, designers, musicians, crew, and artists behind the production are all Filipino. And that, I believe, changes the experience. At the media launch, Polonio also spoke about the production as a meeting point between the local and the international. The Notebook is a globally known story being imagined entirely through Filipino artistry. “Every single artist on the team is Filipino,” Polonio emphasized. “It is a reflection, I think, of Filipino talent, imagination, and artistry in a truly global and local context simultaneously.” There is something particularly exciting about that idea. The Notebook may be set in coastal North Carolina, but the world we are about to see has been created by Filipino imagination. How does a Filipino artist imagine an American coastal town? How does a Filipino actor inhabit characters whose lives may be culturally different from ours, yet whose deepest emotions, like falling in love, losing someone, making difficult choices, and growing older, are instantly recognizable? Those are questions worth experiencing inside a theater, and TGA has come up with an
Sheena Belarmino (left) and Benedix Ramos bring the urgency of first love to young Allie and young Noah The Filipino cast and creative team bring Nicholas Sparks’ familiar love story to the stage for its international production outside Broadway
impressive cast to answer them. Allie and Noah are portrayed by three pairs of performers to showcase the relationship at different stages of their lives. Philippine theater icon Celeste Legaspi plays Older Allie opposite respected theater actor Rody Vera as Older Noah. International singer and performer Morissette takes on Middle Allie, with Laurence Mossman as Middle Noah. Completing the trio are Sheena Belarmino as Young Allie and Benedix Ramos as Young Noah. That casting choice gives the story a physical reminder that love changes as people do. Young Allie and Noah carry the urgency and innocence of first love. Middle Allie and Noah confront the consequences of choices made along the way. Older Allie and Noah face perhaps the most painful question of all. That is, what happens to love when memory itself begins to disappear? That is what I love the most about The Notebook. It becomes bigger than romance. It becomes a story about remembering, choosing, growing older, and the people and moments we desperately want to hold on to. The musical also gives the familiar story a new emotional language through the original music and lyrics of singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson. Known for her intimate songwriting and pop sound, Michaelson’s score gives voice and life to the characters’ hopes, fears, memories, and devotion. The book by Bekah Brunstetter
translates Sparks’ beloved story for the stage. There is another reason why seeing The Notebook onstage can feel different from watching the movie at home. The theater experience asks us to sit inside it. We watch performers breathe, sing, struggle, and fall in love only a few meters away. We hear the music live. We experience the pauses and silences with an audience. We become part of the room where the story unfolds. And because this production is being performed and created by Filipino artists, there is another layer of connection. We are watching some of our fellow Pinoys take a story created abroad and make it their own. That, for me, is one of the most compelling reasons to see The Notebook: The Musical. It is not because we don’t know the story, but precisely because we do. We already know where Noah and Allie’s story begins. We know they will face separation. We know life will complicate their love. We know memory will become instrumental in their story. What we don’t know is how this Filipino cast and creative team will make us feel it all over again. After seeing the sample performance by the cast during the launch, I have a strong prediction that this staging is one for the notebooks. Wink, wink. The Notebook: The Musical runs Sept. 3 to 20 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit
Laurence Mossman (left) and Morissette portray the role of middle-aged Noah and Allie
Celeste Legaspi (left) and Rody Vera take on the older versions of Allie and Noah
Makati. Tickets are priced from P900 to P5,500 and are available through TicketWorld. For your random thoughts, e-mail the author at randomrepublika@gmail.com.