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LGU HEADS TOLD: IGNORANCE NOT DEFENSE FOR UNUSUAL DEALS

AUG. EXPORTS HIT RECORD $9.1B, HIGHEST SINCE 1991

POLAR OCEANS TRANSFORMED AS WARMING MELTS ICE HABITATS

NEWS / A3

BUSINESS / B1

WORLD / A6

Palace to ex-Speaker Velasco: Return to PH, face NBI probe By Charles Dantes

VOL. XL • NO. 229 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 •THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026 •

MALACAÑANG on Wednesday urged former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco to return to the Philippines and face the National Bureau of Investigation’s probe into allegations linking him to purported multi-mil-

SC dismisses petitions to nix threshold ruling

Impeach court, prosecutors welcome unanimous decision By Pot Chavez, Ram Superable and Maricel Cruz

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HE Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed three separate petitions challenging the Senate impeachment court’s interpretation of the twothirds voting requirement for convicting Vice President Sara Duterte, clearing the way for the impeachment trial to proceed under the adjusted threshold. The SC en banc dismissed the petitions filed by former Executive Secretary Victor Rodriguez, and lawyers Berteni Cataluña Causing and Ernesto B. Francisco Jr. on procedural grounds, including lack of standing and prematurity. The petitions sought to nullify the Senate impeachment court’s Sept. 23 ruling that the constitutional requirement of two-thirds of “all the Members of the Senate” refers to senators who are legally and factually capable of participating in the impeachment proceedings when the final judgment is rendered. The Supreme Court has yet to release the full text of its decision. Next page

END OF STRIKE, NOT OF PROTEST. Members of PISTON and other transport groups push through with the last day of their two-day strike at Welcome Rotonda in Quezon City on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. The groups vow to continue pressing the government for lower fuel prices and higher fares. Commuters struggle to board public utility vehicles along Commonwealth Ave. during the morning rush hour. Norman Cruz, Edd Castro

lion-peso cash deliveries to members of the Duterte family. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said Velasco’s departure from the country came after the NBI conducted a search, under a warrant, at his Next page residence.

PISTON ends strike, vows to continue lower oil price push By Rio N. Araja and Maryl De Mesa THE transport group Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) ended its twoday transport strike on Wednesday but vowed to continue its fight for lower fuel prices, higher jeepney fares and b e t t e r wages and working conditions for drivers and operators. Modesto “Ka Mody” Floranda, PISTON national president, called for the repeal of the Oil Deregulation Law, value-added tax and excise tax on fuel products; a P10 increase in the minimum fare for public utility jeepneys; and an end to continued fuel price increases. PISTON members gathered at the Welcome Rotunda, the boundary between Quezon City and Manila, and proceeded to the Mendiola Peace Arch in the afternoon. Next page

‘TBS’ gang present in 78 provinces; no shooting in Isulan By Vince Lopez and Maricel Cruz

TEACHER EXCELLENCE. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Education Secretary Sonny Angara lead the National Teachers’ Month celebration at The Manila Hotel. Mr. Marcos vowed to strengthen support for Filipino teachers through improved training, professional development and scholarship programs, recognizing their crucial role in improving the country's education system. Revoli Cortez

PBBM: Mitigate power, water shortages amid ‘super El Niño’ By Charles Dantes PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered government agencies to intensify preparations for the anticipated super El Niño, with measures underway to prevent water shortages, mitigate drought and protect farmers and vulnerable communities, Malacañang said Wednesday. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said concerned agencies have been coordinating since May to prepare for the climate phenomenon, with the National Irrigation Administration implement-

ing measures to protect agricultural production. “Concerned agencies convened a long time ago. They are working intensively,” Castro said. NIA, led by Administrator Eddie Guillen, has developed a mitigation action plan that includes identifying groundwater sources, maintaining solar-powered irrigation systems and deploying mobile pumps in droughtprone and water-stressed areas. The agency said it will use groundwater maps from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau to identify potential Next page

THE community-based criminal gang True Brown Style (TBS), which authorities are examining against the backdrop of recent school shootings, has established a presence in all local government units in Metro Manila and 78 of the country’s 83 provinces, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Wednesday. Remulla said TBS originated in California and reached the Philippines about 25 years ago as a small group before evolving into a criminal syndicate that authorities are now seeking to dismantle. Next page

Olympics-eyeing Eala 2 wins away from Asiad gold By Riera U. Mallari NAGOYA (Powered by PLDT Home)—It’s not that Alexandra Eala is getting ahead of herself, but winning the gold in the 20th Asian Games will mean automatic entry into the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Chasing the women’s singles crown in Aichi-Nagoya, Eala turned an intense first-set battle into a massacre in the second, pulling off a 7-5, 6-0 quarterfinal win over Chinese Taipei’s Next page

Gritty Paalam punches ticket to Asiad gold bout SPORTS / A8 OFF TO THE SEMIS. Alex Eala is guaranteed of at least a bronze medal in the Asian Games after her triumph over Chinese Taipei’s Joanna Garland Wednesday at Higashiyama Park Tennis Center. POC Media

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

SC... From A1

When a court dismisses or decides a case on procedural grounds, it means the case failed to follow the proper legal steps, rules, or standards required to move forward, including lack of standing, prematurity, late filing, defective pleadings, and wrong forum or jurisdiction. The court makes this decision without examining whether the claims are actually true or legally valid, the Supreme Court said in previous rulings. Senate court welcomes ruling Senate impeachment court spokesperson lawyer Regie Tongol said the Supreme Court’s dismissal affirmed the tribunal’s interpretation of the two-thirds requirement and preserved the independence of the impeachment court. “By junking these challenges, the Highest Court has drawn a definitive firewall around the independence of the Senate as an Impeachment Court,

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“They are in every local government unit in Metro Manila. Of the 83 provinces, I think they are already in 78. Some groups are large, while others are small. They mostly concentrate in urban centers,” Remulla said during the turnover of 48 new motorcycle units for the Unified 911 Emergency Hotline at Camp Olivas in San Fernando, Pampanga. Meanwhile, the Sultan Kudarat provincial government on Wednesday clarified that there was no shooting or hostage-taking incident at Isulan National High School after classes were suspended following a

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“Now, we learned that former Speaker Lord Allan Velasco left the country after his house was raided under a search warrant,” Castro said. “Whether he was afraid or simply went on vacation, we cannot say,” she added. Castro said Velasco should explain himself after his name has been linked to the allegations raised by dismissed police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., who claimed in a sworn affidavit that he delivered large amounts of cash to Vice President Sara Duterte, former President Rodrigo Duterte and Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte on Velasco’s instructions. “It would be better for him to give an explanation so that if there is anything that needs to be cleared up concerning the integrity of his name and his wife’s name, it would be better for them to face the (NBI) investigation,” Castro said. “It is not necessary to leave the country and not show themselves,”

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The group’s strike centers included Baguio City’s Japanese Garden staging area; Laguna’s Crossing Central Terminal, Mamatid in Cabuyao and Balibago in Sta. Rosa; Albay’s Daraga, Bascaran, Anislag, Peñaranda Park, Guinobatan and Ligao; Cebu’s LandBank on P. del Rosario; Mandaue’s Pacific Mall, Petron Cabancalan and Andok’s Mabolo; Bacolod City’s Shell southbound flyover, Petron northbound flyover and Panay Shell; and Aklan’s Jaro Plaza. Meanwhile, a PISTON member, 78-year-old Elmer Cordero, suffered a heart attack during the transport strike in Monumento, Caloocan City, last Tuesday. In a Facebook post, PISTON said Cordero was at the strike center in Monumento when he lost consciousness. He was then brought to the Caloocan City Medical Center for treatment. He was taken to the Caloocan City Medical Center and was unconscious as of PISTON’s 5:55 p.m. Facebook post. Cordero is part of the PISTON 6, a group of six jeepney drivers who were arrested in Caloocan City on June 2, 2020, for holding a peaceful roadside protest during the COVID-19 community quarantine. “Despite his age and fragile condition, Tatay Elmer chose to lead the fight of jeepney drivers and commuters against the continued increase in oil

confirming that its proceedings cannot be held hostage by premature judicial meddling or collateral litigation,” Tongol said. He said the Sept. 23 ruling on the voting threshold remains valid, allowing the impeachment tribunal to continue performing its constitutional duty without delay or outside disruption. The Senate impeachment court earlier voted 13-1, with six abstentions, to reject the fixed 16-vote requirement based on all 24 senators and instead apply the two-thirds requirement only to senators capable of legally and factually participating in the proceedings. The issue arose after four senatorjudges became unable to participate in the trial. Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Rodante Marcoleta are detained, Sen. Ronald dela Rosa has not appeared in public while being sought under an International Criminal Court warrant, and Sen. Loren Legarda is undergoing medical treatment abroad. Villanueva backs SC action

Sen. Joel Villanueva, who voted for the adjusted threshold, said he saw no legal obstacle to the continuation of the impeachment trial. “It is what it is. I take it as it is. I’ve been a believer with the 16 votes, but there’s also nothing in the Constitution, the framers themselves, the three chief justices made mention of it. Two-thirds is still two-thirds,” Villanueva said. “I think people should not play with fire with the word changing of the Constitution,” he added. Villanueva was among the 13 senator-judges who approved Sen. Erwin Tulfo’s motion to discard the fixed 16-vote requirement. Petitions questioned threshold Rodriguez argued that the impeachment court effectively amended the Constitution by adding a qualification not found in its text. Causing argued that senators who remain in office should continue to be counted even if they are in hiding, detained or medically unable to attend the proceedings. He asked the Su-

preme Court to compel Estrada, Marcoleta and dela Rosa to participate in the trial and direct the Senate to take steps to ensure their attendance. Francisco likewise maintained that because the Constitution provides for a 24-member Senate, conviction requires the concurrence of at least 16 senator-judges. The petitioners had also sought a temporary restraining order or status quo ante order against implementation of the Senate ruling. Prosecution welcomes dismissal House prosecutor Terry Ridon welcomed the Supreme Court’s dismissal, saying it should allow the impeachment proceedings to continue without further interruption. “Let us allow the Senate impeachment court to do its job and complete the process mandated by the Constitution. What matters now is that the trial proceeds to a verdict—whether conviction or acquittal,” Ridon said. He said the prosecution had consistently maintained that the Senate impeachment court should be allowed

to exercise its constitutional authority to hear and decide the case. “Instead of wasting time on petitions intended to stall the trial, it would be better to let the process move forward. It is a waste of paper and a waste of trees. The trial is proceeding, and the prosecution is ready to continue presenting our evidence,” Ridon said. He said the prosecution would remain focused on presenting its evidence and leave the final judgment to the senator-judges. “In the end, the evidence should speak for itself. Let the trial conclude, and let the Senate impeachment court decide based on the evidence before it,” Ridon said. The House of Representatives impeached Duterte in May on allegations including graft, corruption, bribery and an alleged assassination plot against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. A conviction in the Senate would remove her from office and permanently bar her from holding elective office.

loud sound heard inside the school premises. Gov. Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu said the sound was likely caused by faulty electrical wiring. “No ammunition was found in the area during the investigation,” he said, adding that no one was injured. Also, the House of Representatives has adopted a resolution honoring Scout Chris Lorenz Tanglao Fabian, the 15-year-old student who died protecting his classmates during the June 22 school shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City. House Resolution 1464, adopted in consolidation with House Resolution 1176, recognizes Fabian’s actions in plac-

ing his classmates’ safety above his own. HR 1464 was filed by House Speaker Faustino Dy III, Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, and Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan. HR 1176 was filed by Leyte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and TINGOG Party-list Reps. Yedda Marie Romualdez, Andrew Julian Romualdez, and Jude Acidre. Acidre said the resolution honors a young Taclobanon whose concern for his classmates prevailed in the face of danger. TBS members ‘largely in late teens’ The DILG said TBS is composed largely of members in their late teens and early 20s and recruits children

as young as 14 or 15, grooming them for criminal activities. The group’s recruitment of minors has drawn particular attention as authorities investigate recent school violence and shootings involving young people. Remulla earlier described cases involving TBS as alarming, prompting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to order authorities to dismantle the organization. Following the President’s directive, the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies are consolidating intelligence to identify and arrest TBS members and disrupt its operations nationwide. “All of us in the police are holding a command conference now. We

are gathering intelligence on who its members are, and we will get them,” Remulla said. He said TBS members teach minors to steal from business establishments, with initiation rites allegedly involving the armed robbery of convenience stores. “By the age of 16, they are already being taught to steal,” he said. The DILG said law enforcement operations would continue to dismantle the group’s network, apprehend its members and prevent the recruitment and exploitation of children. The department also urged communities and families to remain vigilant against criminal groups that prey on minors and threaten peace and order.

she added. The Bureau of Immigration confirmed Tuesday that Velasco remains outside the Philippines and has no hold departure order or derogatory record that would have prevented his departure. NBI Director Melvin Matibag said Velasco left for Nagoya, Japan, on Aug. 30 and was expected to return Sept. 14 but has not done so. The NBI has said it will invite Velasco, his wife and other personalities named in Gracioso’s affidavit as part of its investigation. Gracioso, who was confirmed by the Philippine National Police as having served as part of Velasco’s security detail, alleged that he delivered more than P2 billion to Vice President Duterte, more than P1 billion to former President Duterte and P100 million to Paolo Duterte. The allegations have not been independently established. Velasco’s camp has rejected Gracioso’s allegations as fabricated and without basis, while Vice President Duterte has denied knowing Gracioso or receiving money from him.

Olympics-eyeing...

cape with a 3-2 split decision victory. The Talakag (Bukidnon) pride admitted his rival showed up with a completely different style, turning the bout into a highly tactical game of counters. Following the strict instructions of coach Elmer Pamisa to strike first and hit the final counter, Paalam took control early. "Unahan lang kami paano magcounter," said the 28-year-old Paalam, who had to overcome a point deduction from the referee in the third. Digging deep into his endurance, he showcased his immense fighting spirit to sway the judges. "Pinapakita ko sa referee na Pinoy tayo, dugo natin 'to, kahit mag-kamatayan tayo, ibibigay talaga sa last round," Paalam said. With his semifinal win, Paalam is now assured of at least a silver medal for the Philippines and will hope to be the next gold medal winner for the country when he takes on hometown bet Rui Yamaguchi of Japan, who won 5-0 against Mongolian Bilguunsaikhan Kharhuu. Meanwhile, heavy-favored Sibol saw its Asiad campaign come to an abrupt end on Wednesday after a stunning quarterfinal loss to regional rival Indonesia in the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang esports event at Aichi Sky Expo Hall. The Philippines, represented by the core of three-time MPL Philippines champion Team Liquid, was off to a rough start as Indonesia’s aggressive start repeatedly disrupted Sibol’s plans throughout the series. “Sobrang dami naming errors and tingin ko hindi namin nalaro ‘yung laro talaga namin. Hindi ko expect na matatalo kami,” said top player Karl “KarlTzy” Nepomuceno, citing their struggles as Indonesia seized Game 1, 22-19. Sibol, supported by the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee, countered and evened the best-of-three series, 14-5, in Game 2. But Sibol failed to find its footing in Game 3, as the Indonesians took control and closed out the match, 126. Earlier in the day, Sibol’s Identity V squad also crashed out in a 0-2 quarterfinals loss to Malaysia. The losses marked the end of Sibol’s campaign in the Asian Games, with the Philippines’ esports delegation delivering bronze medals in both Honor of Kings and Pokémon UNITE.

prices,” PISTON said in its post. Cordero was also part of the PISTON 6, a group of six jeepney drivers arrested for protesting in Caloocan during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. The cases were later dropped in 2024 due to insufficient evidence. The transport strike came even as minimum fare increases of P1 for traditional jeepneys and P2 for modern jeepneys took effect this week. While the groups said the increase was insufficient, Malacañang defended the amount approved for the fare hike. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the government recognized the financial difficulties faced by public utility vehicle drivers and operators amid persistent geopolitical tensions, but limited the increase to avoid placing an excessive burden on commuters. "That is why fares now need to increase because the conflict in the Middle East has not stopped," Castro said. She said Marcos and his administration considered the plight of transport workers in approving the adjustment, which was lower than the amount sought by transport groups to keep fares manageable for commuters. "The President and the administration recognize what our drivers and operators are experiencing and feeling, which is why they were given a fare increase," Castro said. "Although not at the rate they wanted, it was a reasonable amount so our other countrymen would not be burdened," she added.

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Joanna Garland and booking a spot in the semifinal round, where she is already assured of the tennis bronze medal. The 21-year-old Eala is now two wins away from the gold and a quota place for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, provided she remains inside the world’s top 500 at the June 2028 cutoff. Playing outdoors for the first time in the event, the world No. 18 thrilled a supportive, largely Filipino crowd at the finally sunny Nagoya City Higashiyama Park Tennis Center's Centre Court, as she overcame early turbulence and navigated five ties in a tightly contested opening set against her 143rd-ranked opponent. The tournament top seed then unleashed a dominant show in the second, racing to an early 4-0 cushion and overwhelming Garland with superior power and baseline control to stay in contention for a historic gold medal. Up next for Eala is a high-stakes semifinal encounter against fourthseeded Xiyu Wang of China for a spot in the finals. Her campaign in the women's doubles alongside Shaira Rivera also remains active as the duo advanced to the second round. “Representing the country and playing these types of games – SEA Games, Asian Games, and hopefully the Olympics one day – they're very close to my heart and a big part of my dreams. I also get to be with my teammates. I think these events are really fun, really competitive and a great experience for me both in terms of learning (4:27) and just experiencing,” said Eala. The Philippines is currently at 17th spot in the medal standings, with three golds, three silvers and 12 bronze medals. Also seeking gold is Tokyo Olympic silver boxing medalist Carlo Paalam, who barged into the men’s 55 kgs gold-medal bout after surviving a thrilling, gritty and bloody semifinal clash against Kazakhstan’s Makhmud Sabyrkhan at the Nishio Gymnasium. Setting the tone early, Paalam dominated the opening frame, taking Round 1 with a 10-9 score on four of the five judges' scorecards, before engaging the Kazakh in a fierce close battle in the next two rounds to es-

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water sources for solar-powered pump irrigation systems. It will also inventory and maintain existing units, repair and rehabilitate older pump systems, and clear and desilt irrigation canals to improve water flow and capacity. Castro said the Department of Environment and Natural Resources was also preparing measures to safeguard water supplies, prevent forest and grassland fires, promote energy conservation and strengthen coordination among agencies. The DENR has established small water impounding structures and rainwater harvesting systems to augment water supplies, she said. The Department of Agriculture has conducted irrigation system assessments, studied drought-resistant crops and considered adjustments to planting schedules, while allocating financial assistance for farmers and fisherfolk. “There are many programs and measures that the concerned agencies are undertaking,” Castro said, adding that the Department of Energy was also preparing for possible power interruptions. The government is likewise anticipating health risks associated with extreme heat, including dehydration. Castro said children, older adults, outdoor workers and people with existing health vulnerabilities would receive particular attention as temperatures rise. According to international projections published last month, this year's powerful El Nino weather pattern could lead to 451,000 additional heat-related deaths worldwide through February as it turbocharges global temperatures. At least 19,300 are projected in Indonesia and 19,400 in the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia. The warming phenomenon is on course to be the strongest on record, amplifying the effects of human-induced climate change. The estimates by the Climate Impact Lab at the University of Chicago found that developing countries would be hit hardest by the heat-related toll in the June to February period. AFP

NEWS

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

mst.daydesk@ gmail.com

POWER PROTEST.

Women’s groups, including ORIANG, protest rising electricity rates at Welcome Rotonda in Quezon City on Sept. 30, calling for lower power costs, higher wages, and reforms to ease the burden on workers and small vendors.

Prosecution may present VP Sara bank records today or Friday By Maricel V. Cruz

Officials can’t claim ignorance as irregularities emerge—Palace By Charles Dantes

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ALACAÑANG on Wednesday warned local government leaders against using ignorance as a defense for questionable transactions under their watch, saying officials cannot simply claim they “did not know” once irregularities become apparent.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro made the statement after Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte testified during the impeachment proceedings involving his sister, Vice President Sara Duterte, that he was unaware of her alleged financial interest in GenCorp, which secured multiple contracts with

the city government. Castro said a mayor or any leader or head who has authority over an agency or organization, including areas or even countries themselves, cannot simply say that they knew nothing, did not look into matters or did not care. Castro made the statement after Duterte testified that he did not know of his

sister’s alleged financial interest in GenCorp, a company that secured contracts with the Davao City local government. She said she could not determine whether Duterte was telling the truth, noting that only the mayor himself would know his intentions. “There are siblings who may be telling the truth or may lie to cover up and defend their own sibling. There are also siblings who lie to discredit their own sibling,” Castro said. Castro said a leader may initially rely on good faith when assuming office, but continued claims of ignorance could become difficult to justify once irregularities emerge. “At the start, definitely, yes, it may be in good faith because you are just

starting. But once you see unusual things happening within your jurisdiction, you cannot simply pretend not to notice,” she said. Castro also cited the Arias doctrine, which has been invoked in discussions of whether public officials may rely on subordinates in the performance of official duties. She said the doctrine should not be used to shield officials from accountability when they become aware of irregularities. “If it happens that you are truly acting in good faith because of your belief, but once you see anomalies and signs of irregularities, you can no longer use Arias versus Sandigan Bayan to cover up your weakness or to cover up your ally or sibling,” Castro said.

Digital platform launched for anti-dynasty law initiative By Pot Chavez

DOJ OUTREACH. The Department of Justice (DOJ) holds an outreach program at the Philippine General Hospital, serving free breakfast to 400 patients and companions. It also presents the ‘Pamana ng Katarungan’ exhibit at the University of the Philippines Manila, featuring photographs and artifacts on the department’s history.

A DIGITA L platform was launched on Wednesday to make it easier and more accessible for Filipinos to submit copetitions in support of a people’s initiative to pass an antipolitical dynasty law. Retired Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio told Manila Standard that the launch is crucial to efforts to combat corruption. “To end corruption in the Annual General Appropriations Act, like ghost flood control projects, political dynasties should not control Congress. A political dynasty should have only one member in Congress, either in the House or in the Senate,” retired Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio told Manila Standard. He is urging Filipinos to sign the petition against political dynasties through the Dapat Isa Lang (D1L) coalition’s website. The petition states that a political dynasty exists when two or more persons are related within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity. It prohibits the simultaneous or successive holding of elective office at the national and local levels within the same province. According to D1L, any registered Filipino voter who meets the legal requirements for participation in the People’s Initiative process may sign the petition. The group is inviting petitioners to read the full text of the proposed Anti-Political Dynasty Act, which is available in English, Filipino, Bisaya and Ilocano. Meanwhile, the platform also gives signatories the option to withdraw their support upon verification of their request.

7 plead not guilty to graft over Bulacan flood project By Maricel V. Cruz FORMER Assistant Engineer Brice Hernandez of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bulacan First District Engineering Office and six others pleaded not guilty to graft charges at the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division on Wednesday. This is in relation to the graft case involving an alleged P77 million ghost flood control project in Balagtas, Bulacan. Hernandez appeared at the Sandiganbayan alongside his former fellow DPWH officials and co-accused Jaypee Mendoza,

Arjay Domasig, Niño Lawrence Morales, Juanito Mendoza, Floralyn Simbulan and Christina Mae Pineda. All seven pleaded not guilty. They are currently detained at the New Quezon City Jail in Payatas, Quezon City. The accused individuals are also facing a separate malversation and graft case involving an alleged P92.8 million ghost flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan. The three other respondents in the case who have not yet been arraigned are fugitive former lawmaker Zaldy Co and his staff members John Paul Estrada and Mark Tecsay.

THE House prosecution may finally begin presenting the subpoenaed bank records of Vice President Sara Duterte as early as Thursday or Friday as the Senate impeachment court shifts to full-day hearings on her alleged unexplained wealth. House trial spokesperson Ace Barbers disclosed the timetable as prosecutors prepare to move deeper into the financial evidence under Article II. “This is a good week, as we might be able to present the bank records this Thursday or Friday,” Barbers revealed. The bank records are among the most anticipated evidence under Article II because prosecutors intend to compare Duterte’s declared wealth and lawful sources of income with financial transactions reflected in records obtained from banks and other institutions. The Senate impeachment court earlier authorized subpoenas for pesodenominated bank records involving Duterte, her husband, lawyer Manases Carpio and several entities after finding the requested documents prima facie relevant and material to Article II. More than 1,800 bank, insurance and other financial documents have since been subjected to marking and processing ahead of their presentation in court. The prosecution on Monday also offered to enter into stipulations with the defense on subpoenaed bank records in an effort to dispense with as many as 20 bank representatives who would otherwise have to testify to authenticate the documents.

IN BRIEF DPWH begins work on PGH drainage THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has started construction of drainage facilities and septic tanks at the University of the PhilippinesPhilippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) to help ease severe flooding that disrupts hospital operations during heavy rains. Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said the facilities are expected to be completed by next year, with the project aimed at speeding up the drainage of floodwater inside and outside the hospital compound. The flooding causes inconvenience to patients, doctors, nurses and other hospital staff during heavy downpours, Dizon said. He said floodwaters also affect access to parts of the medical facility during periods of heavy rainfall. Dizon said the DPWH is accelerating construction to ensure the drainage improvements are completed as soon as possible and help improve flood management around the hospital. Vito Barcelo

PNP tightens noose on fake delivery riders THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday intensified measures against individuals using rider uniforms and motorcycle delivery gear as cover for unlawful activities amid the expected increase in public movement during the holiday season. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the move forms part of the PNP’s heightened alert against street and petty crimes that traditionally rise as more people flock to shopping centers, transport terminals, markets and other crowded areas leading to the holidays. “Street and petty crimes tend to increase as the holiday season approaches, and criminal elements continue to evolve their modus operandi to carry out their illicit activities. The PNP will always be one step ahead of these criminals,” Nartatez said. Vince Lopez

Tulfo eyes long-term tourism slogan for PH

‘BAWAT BAYAN’ INITIATIVE. Executive Secretary Ralph Recto addresses Pampanga residents during the launch of the ‘Bawat Bayan Makikinabang’ initiative on Sept. 29. Office of the Executive Secretary.

SENATOR Erwin Tulfo on Wednesday filed Senate Bill No. 2511, also known as the Philippine Tourism Campaign Slogan Act, to establish a long-term tourism brand for the country and prevent promotional shifts during presidential transitions. The proposed legislation followed a budget briefing led by Tulfo on the Department of Tourism’s 2027 fiscal plan, where he raised concerns over frequent changes to national promotional strategies. “It seems like we are the only country that changes every administration. There’s love, there’s more love... We don’t have an identity. Unlike Malaysia, ‘Truly Asia.’ They have something like that,” he said. Tulfo said repeated rebranding from “Wow Philippines” and “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” to the current “Love the Philippines” creates confusion among international travelers and weakens global brand recognition. Ram Superable

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MST.DAYDESK@GMAIL.COM

IN BRIEF

SC acts forthwith on BSKE plea By Pot Chavez and Vince Lopez

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HE Supreme Court (SC) has directed the Office of the President, through the Executive Secretary, the Senate, the House of Representatives, and the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to comment on the petition challenging the constitutionality of the law postponing the November 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE).

Teachers, nurses will overcome AI—expert TEACHING and nursing professions are emerging as growth areas well-suited to Filipino workers amid artificial intelligence (AI)-driven shifts in the global labor market, an expert said Wednesday. Artificial intelligence (AI) scientist Dr. Christopher Monterola made this observation during the Kapihan sa Manila Prince Hotel, citing 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF) findings on emerging roles well-suited to Filipino strengths. Monterola, founder of the Aboitiz School of Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship (ASITE), said he remains optimistic for the country’s labor sector despite the emergence of AI. He noted that teaching is a demand he expects to grow given demographic trends in emerging economies, especially if teachers learn to work alongside AI tools. Pot Chavez

DENR flags unresolved global plastic pollution THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has raised serious concern over the unresolved global plastic crisis around the world, calling for a predictable and standardized framework under a global plastics treaty. Lawyer Analiza Rebuelta-Teh, DENR Undersecretary for Finance, Information Systems, Climate Change and Administration, said the climate crisis cannot be solved “without solving the plastic crisis.” A global plastics treaty would be the most critical environmental deal since the 2015 Paris Agreement,” she pointed out during the High-Level Business and Policy Roundtable on the Global Plastics Treaty in New York City, the United States of America. “To achieve our 2040 goal of ending plastic pollution, the final treaty must establish a predictable, standardized framework that aligns global capital with circular outcomes,” Teh added. Rio N. Araja

DOLE clarifies pay rules during ASEAN Summit METRO Manila wage earners will receive additional pay for work performed during the Nov. 16 to 18 special non-working days in connection with the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) announced on Wednesday. Under Labor Advisory No. 16, wage earners who do not work on those days will generally get no pay unless company policy, practice or a collective bargaining agreement provides otherwise. The advisory was signed by Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino on Sept. 28. Employees who work on the special non-working days will receive 130 percent of their basic wage for the first eight hours. Overtime work will be paid at an additional 30 percent of the employee’s hourly rate based on the special-day rate. Vito Barcelo

FUR FRIENDS. A pet lover and her fur friends go to the Eastwood City in Quezon City for a blessing rite and photoshoot event ahead of the celebration of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, on Oct. 4. Manny Palmero

Palace defends MIF as effective investment setup By Charles Dantes MALACAÑANG on Wednesday defended the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) as an effective government investment portfolio, saying its mandate differs from that of state-owned banks tasked with providing financing to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro made the statement after former Finance Secretary Gary Teves questioned the effectiveness of the Maharlika Fund, arguing that its initial capital could have remained with government banks to earn interest and support domestic borrowers such as MSMEs.

“Of course, it is definitely effective,” Castro said when asked whether the Palace considers the MIF effective. Castro said government financial institutions such as the Land Bank of the Philippines, the Development Bank of the Philippines and the Small Business Corp. were already equipped to provide financing to MSMEs under their respective developmental mandates. “The Maharlika Investment Fund, meanwhile, has its own mandate,” she said. Castro cited the fund’s mandate to make strategic and profitable investments that contribute to socioeconomic development while preserving and growing its value and generating sustainable

returns. “It is intended to mobilize and leverage government capital for long-term investments in strategic sectors and development project,” she said, quoting from the fund’s mandate. “That is really the reason and purpose of the Maharlika Investment Fund,” Castro said. The MIF was created as the Philippines’ sovereign wealth fund, with a mandate distinct from the lending functions of government financial institutions. Castro’s remarks came as the Palace responded to criticism over whether the government could have generated greater economic benefits by retaining the fund’s initial capital within state-owned banks.

Meanwhile, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) committed to implement Republic Act No. 12326, recently signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal told Manila Standard on Wednesday that he is “deeply glad and thankful” for the immediate action taken by the High Court on his petition. “The directive of the Supreme Court resolution ordering the Office of the President, the Senate, the House of Representatives, and the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to file their comments on my petition and motion for TRO (temporary restraining order) within a non-extendible period of just five calendar days is a welcome development and a clear indication that the High Court sees substantial merit in our petition,” he said. Macalintal expressed confidence that the SC will issue a favorable resolution to his plea. He explained that the Comelec fully possesses the administrative power and operational capability to move the election to another appropriate date should the High Court decide in favor of the petition and eventually issue a TRO. “We saw a very clear precedent of this during the December 2022 BSKE, when the Supreme Court eventually declared RA No. 11935 unconstitutional and directed the immediate conduct of the elections,” he added. The petition stemmed from the enactment of Republic Act No. (RA) 12326 that fixed the terms of barangay officials and members of the Sangguniang Kabataan to five years and postponed the November 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) to November 2028. Macalintal argued that the new law violates the electorate’s right to vote by postponing the 2026 BSKE under the guise of fixing the affected officials’ term of office.

‘Troops’ morale at Ayungin remains high despite delays in supply runs’ By Rex Espiritu THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Wednesday that troops aboard the BRP Sierra Madre stationed at Ayungin Shoal continue to have sufficient supplies despite the rescheduling of a rotation and resupply (RoRe) mission following recent interference by Chinese vessels. AFP spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Navy reservist Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said in a virtual interview that the troops’ morale also remained high despite the delayed mission. Trinidad said personnel aboard the BRP Sierra Madre were already accustomed to staying on the vessel even as scheduled rotations were delayed. Chinese vessels interdicted Philippine RoRe mission to Ayungin Shoal on September 24.

According to Trinidad, Philippine vessels previously reached within 15 nautical miles of the BRP Sierra Madre before encountering China Coast Guard and People’s Liberation Army Navy vessels. During the latest mission, however, Chinese vessels were detected when the Philippine ships were approximately 16 nautical miles from the grounded Philippine Navy vessel. Trinidad said the Chinese vessels subsequently moved to within less than one nautical mile of the Philippine vessel and issued threatening radio messages. “There were reports of the engine of the [M/V Lapu-Lapu] not performing well, but it didn’t conk out. The PLA at ng China Coast Guard vessels came too close for comfort. It was a judgment call of the commander of Western Command to reschedule the RoRe,” Trinidad said.

ON-SITE ASSESSMENT. Department of Public Works and Highway Secretary Vince Dizon visits the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) in Manila to assess the status of ongoing repair and rehabilitation of buildings, utilities, and flood mitigation facilities in the state-run medical institution. Norman Cruz

Gov’t committed to Pampanga’s total growth—Recto By Charles Dantes

ANTI-POLITICAL DYNASTY ALLIANCE. Former Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, together with Bishop Elias Ayuban, Fr. Robert Reyes, and other anti-political dynasty advocates launch the ‘Dapat Isa Lang’ digital promotion website that rolls out its signature campaign for a genuine anti-political dynasty law across the Philippine electorate. Manny Palmero

EXECUTIVE Secretary Ralph Recto on Tuesday reaffirmed the Marcos administration’s commitment to inclusive growth in Pampanga, citing major infrastructure projects, direct financial assistance, and expanded social programs to ensure economic gains across the province. Speaking at the launch of the “Bawat Bayan Makikinabang” initiative, Recto said Pampanga plays a strategic role in the administration’s plan to develop the Luzon Economic Corridor into a major logistics and manufacturing hub in Asia, with Clark at the center. “Pampanga plays a huge role in President Bongbong Marcos Jr.’s plans for our

country. First of all, you are part of what we call the Luzon Economic Corridor. We aim to make it a logistics and manufacturing hub for all of Asia. And the center of that is in Clark,” Recto said. He cited the planned partial operations of the Malolos-Valenzuela segment of the North-South Commuter Railway in 2027 and the Malolos-Clark segment in 2028, which are expected to reduce travel time between Clark and Calamba, Laguna, from four hours to two hours. Recto stressed that economic development should extend beyond Clark to benefit communities throughout Pampanga. “Off course, progress should not stop at Clark. It should also be felt across all of Pampanga and at the grassroots level.

That is exactly the reason why we are here today. The President has ordered that government and services be brought even closer to you here in Pampanga,” he noted. As part of the initiative, the government is distributing free rice sourced directly from local farmers to more than 107,500 families in the province, while each barangay gets a direct allocation of P200,000 for community needs. The province is also receiving P251 million for infrastructure and community projects, including a multipurpose building in Barangay San Roque, medical equipment, local road improvements and an evacuation center in Barangay Santa Catalina.

OPINION

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My personal Davao IT’S been years since I stayed beyond one night in Davao City. But last Sunday, I flew in and stayed two nights and two days and was able to walk around and be driven to Matina past memories of the old Davao of my teen-age days when the center was just San Pedro and Claveria dotted by stand-alone movie houses of the Garcia clan from Batangas. Davao City is four times bigger than the entire Metro Manila, and 70 percent of the entire Ilocos Norte. Its former mayor, now the vice president of the country, is currently being forcibly ejected by a powerhungry despot with a smiling jaw. A week ago, veteran broadcaster Korina Sanchez remarked, after visiting Davao, that the city appeared to have changed little since she covered the place decades ago. Ms. Korina said “ito na ba ‘yun?” “Bakit parang sina-una pa rin?” “Ganoon pa rin, parang napag-iwanan.” Her observations drew some sharp, defensive reactions from Davaoeños, from its officials to ordinary residents. There are hardly any high rise buildings in Davao compared to Taguig or Makati, to be sure. But I have seen the progress and development of the city which those of us from Butuan and the Caraga Region always envied since Rodrigo Roa Duterte became its mayor. This is my personal Davao: In the early sixties, when Luis Santos was yet the mayor, our family bought a 142-hectare farmland in Barangay Talandang, Tugbok District in Davao City. It is some 23 kilometers by land travel from City Hall and San Pedro Cathedral, and almost 300 kilometers from Butuan City where we lived. But for a patch of asphalted 300 meters from población Calinan, the road to our farm was mud and gravel, many parts impassable after a heavy rain. We planted pomelos little by little until some 30 hectares were cultivated to those sweet and juicy citrus fruits that along with durian and Cavendish bananas have become trademarks of Davao. We did not have any tenants. The workers were paid on a weekly basis, and were free to plant corn, cassava and palay in the undeveloped areas for their own consumption, without need to share their harvest with us. But in 1990, my mother decided to give the rest of our land, 112 hectares of it, to agrarian reform, and a few years later, we sold 30 hectares to an agricultural corporation which paid us many times more than what Landbank paid us. I sometimes regret that decision, because now, the road leading to the farm is totally cemented, and its connectivity to the población and even the airport now

convenient, thanks to Duterte. If we had just delayed and kept the land, we could have developed it into a golf resort in joint venture with some big developer. The enterprising Batangueño trader who used to buy our pomelos after I stopped shipping and selling these myself in Metro Manila under my brand name “Golden” which my old man allowed him to use, has become the “pasalubong” of choice by most visitors to Davao. But my mom did not foresee that Rodrigo Roa Duterte could make Davao City a haven of progress built on the foundation of peace and order.

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Every city, every province has its own God-given resources and limitations. Unlike the concrete jungle that is Metro Manila, Davao is yet an oasis of green, where people are happy as they follow the law and keep the order. Even Paquibato, which for decades has been infested with rebels, is now peaceful, thanks this time to Inday Sara and now her younger brother Sebastian. I do not blame broadcast journalist Korina, though. Even when I lived in our farm and built a bungalow atop a hill from whose lanai on moonlit evenings one whiffs the fragrance of citrus blossoms, I always pined for the urban way of life. The Davao that the Dutertes nurtured now blends all the conveniences of urban life with rustic and relaxing rural pleasures. And this writer hopes that the city stays the way it is --- a city built on the sweat, toil and savings of the migrant working class and the medium and small shopkeepers that has become a model of good governance founded on peace and order, political will that breeds discipline, and the rule of law. Migrants from Luzon and the Visayas, farmers and small-scale entrepreneurs built Davao into what it is, long before the huge malls and the condominium developers came in. Which is why there is a sprawl of two to four-storey establishments, not high rises, from San Pedro to its outskirts, and now with the bridge to Samal and the coastal road, businesses built by middle class persistence, creativity and hard work, have defined real progress. Every city, every province has its own God-given resources and limitations. Optimizing these for the benefit of its residents is what good governance under wise leadership is all about.

The quiet majority for human rights By Volker Türk WAR, climate chaos, division, greed – look at any news outlet, and you might believe this defines our world. The laws of war are flouted. Peace is elusive. Authoritarianism feeds on division. Power is concentrated in the hands of a select few. But this is not the whole picture. Behind the headlines, there is another reality: quieter, less visible – and far more positive. Around the world, the vast majority of people are appalled by brutality, hatred, and injustice. They do not want wealth and power to dictate whose rights matter and whose are trampled. They see that destruction and suffering are taking our world to a dead end. They want the rules that protect humanity to be respected by everyone, always. They want to protect our planet from the threats that are already making it unliveable for many of its inhabitants. They do not believe their opportunities in life should be defined by their gender. And they do not want their rights to be sacrificed to technology, evolving at warp speed, with little control. This is the thinking behind the Global Alliance for Human Rights, a movement launched in June 2026 by United Nations Human Rights to bring together everyone who cares about and works for human rights; to give voice to the majority; and to channel their enormous energy towards real change. Because while a single person, government, organization or institution can do something to address today’s challenges to human rights, a united global movement can achieve far more. Today, I see around me the same energy that drove the movements that fought slavery, colonialism, patriarchy, and apart-

heid. It doesn’t surprise me. People will always mobilise for what is right – within their communities and even for those halfway across the world. The Global Alliance is linking governments, cities, civil society, young people, businesses, philanthropies, thinkers, artists, and scientists in practical ways to address people’s problems and improve their lives.

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The Global Alliance aims to connect and strengthen all these projects and initiatives. One of the Alliance’s first initiatives is on Human Rights Cities. Around the world, cities and local authorities are turning to human rights for concrete, nonideological solutions to the challenges of modern urban living, from transport to education and social safety nets. In Baguio in the Philippines, for example, people can follow public budgets and bidding processes via an app, making local government decisions more accountable and transparent. In Kenya, my staff are supporting human rights training for local authorities that will help people participate in decisions that affect their lives. Local and regional governments know that greater participation leads to greater efficiency, resilience, and stability. Other Global Alliance initiatives cover youth mobilization, human rights in business and technology, climate action, science, philosophy, sport, and faith. Projects that deliver human rights on

T

HE looming onset of a very strong El Niño by yearend, projected to persist until mid2027, poses a formidable challenge to Philippine agriculture and food security, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA). Hence, the agency has unveiled a P6.2-billion subsidy package already released early last month, with an additional P3.5 billion expected in the fourth quarter for solar irrigation facilities.

This allocation under the DA’s Uplift program reflects a proactive, whole-of-government response to both climate stress and external shocks such as the Middle East crisis. At its core, the subsidy package is designed to protect farmers and fisherfolk from the twin pressures of rising input costs and water scarcity. Fertilizer support worth P2.2 billion directly addresses productivity concerns, while P1 billion each for fuel subsidies and transport assistance ensures that production and distribution chains remain functional despite higher energy costs. The presidential assistance fund adds a layer of social protection, recognizing that prolonged droughts often translate into livelihood insecurity. The planned investment in solar irrigation facilities is significant. Traditional irrigation systems are vul-

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Aside from being a meteorological event, it is also a governance challenge. Visayas, or areas forecasted to suffer prolonged dry spells, the DA wants to mitigate localized crop failures and stabilize food supply. This approach is consistent with broader sustainability goals, reducing dependence on fossil fuels while enhancing resilience against climate variability.

of traffic getting into the CBD passes through there. This is inadequate to handle the volume. The same is true in the Court of Appeals and the University of the Philippines areas. Other areas include the Pacdal circle going to the Mansion House and Mines View Park. This is partly due to the closure of the Teachers Camp road that goes from South Drive to Brookside. That road by the way has been open for more than one hundred years until the Teachers Camp Administration decided to restrict it during the pandemic. Now it is the private road of the informal settlers inside the Teachers Camp reservation.

WHILE Baguio’s traffic does need improving, the solutions being implemented should not be at the expense of other sectors. Everyone must bear the brunt of any attempt at improvement. There should be no privileged group because the integrity of any solution undertaken will not be credible. If the city even bothered to look at the number of vehicles per kilometer of road in the city, the figures coming out are not as catastrophic as in the Metro area. With the city having approximately 349 kilometers of national, city, and barangay roads, with about 58,000 registered vehicles, we have a figure of about 166 vehicles to one kilometer of road. This compares to the National Capital Region which has about 800 or more vehicles per kilometer of road according to one figure I looked into. In the case of Baguio, even if we increase that number, the figure will still be way lower than the NCR vehicle number. What the Baguio figure is telling us is that traffic authorities still have a lot of room to maneuver in order to improve traffic flow thereby lessening congestion and improving travel time. Some of the current traffic problems are basically self-inflicted or due to inaction. The present one-way traffic flow in many Baguio roads for instance was implemented during the time of former Mayor Bernie Vergara more than two decades ago when the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority was requested to lend a hand at improving the city’s traffic. What MMDA did was to make many roads one way. The Post Office loop, for example, is now always congested because a lot

Still another area of congestion inside the CBD is the Abanao, Camp Allen and Naguilian Road intersection beside the City Hall. The four or five lane portion of Abanao road was made one way going out of the city by an ordinance more than 20 years ago which was a misguided move. Because of the increase in vehicles and non-existent driver discipline, that section is always congested and chaotic during rush hours. There are others like the Baguio General Hospital area with the same problem and more. Yet, in all these years, the one way system remained to this day.

a daily basis are all around us, in our streets, in our classrooms and boardrooms, and in our communities, as well as in parliaments and governments around the world. I am inspired by students, civil society leaders, community organisers, local officials and human rights defenders working – often quietly – to make their communities safer and people’s lives better. The Global Alliance aims to connect and strengthen all these projects and initiatives. It is a living, buzzing hive of activity that builds on what already exists and co-creates its agenda in response to constantly evolving realities. It will make the quiet majority louder and more visible. We must be clear-eyed. The challenges we face are complex, and governments and societies need to make difficult choices. Human rights provide a compass to

navigate those choices in a smarter, wiser, and fairer way. At some point, all of us have wondered: How can we help the hungry child on our screens? How can we make sure families don’t face financial ruin because of medical bills? How can we protect our privacy online? When we bring these questions to the table, hear different perspectives, and work across sectors and regions, solutions begin to emerge. This is key to the Global Alliance’s methodology: Imagine; Dialogue; Act. Participation is now open. We welcome everyone who believes that fairness, dignity, and respect are the foundations of a safer and more stable future for our communities and our planet; and particularly those who propose solutions and are ready to bring those values into people’s lives. Since its launch 100 days ago, the Alli-

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Solutions being implemented should not be at the expense of other sectors.

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser

If there are capable city traffic engineers, they would have realized that changes are already needed. As they should know, traffic is very dynamic. Traffic situations are constantly changing and adjustments must always be done. In this case however, not a thing was done, worsening the congestion due to the increase of vehicle ownership not only in the city but also among tourists coming to the city. What these problems are telling us is that the city should go beyond changing traffic directions and rely more on engineering, enforcement and education because ultimately, the solutions will be in these Es of traffic management. In the Session road rotunda for example, the barrier routing currently in effect as we can see is no longer effective. That area has so many conflict points negatively impacting traffic flow. The city must be more imaginative and look at implementing a major engineering undertaking to drastically improve traffic flow in that rotunda. A rotunda as we know is known as a continuous intersection because there is no need for vehicles to stop. Traffic flow in that area however, is always problematic. Another step to consider is putting up a state of the art traffic operation center to better control the traffic lights which should now be intelligent. These are traffic lights whose cycle times are self-adjusting in relation to incoming traffic. In the final analysis, everything will depend on the competence of the city’s traffic authorities to be able to determine the actual traffic problems of the city so that the proper solutions can be implemented.

ance has seen interest from every region and across sectors. Some 600 different organizations, from governments and local authorities to civil society groups, academic institutions, businesses, and individual people have come forward. Our Human Rights Cities network has rapidly expanded to more than 120 cities worldwide. Five leading names in sport have become early supporters of the Alliance. And twelve outstanding young changemakers have joined its Youth4Rights Advisory Group. The movement exists. The energy is real. The commitment is there. Now it has a name and a shared home. I invite you to join us, bringing your ideas and your energy. The author is the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Emil P. Jurado+ Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

ROLANDO G. ESTABILLO Publisher

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nerable to water shortages during El Niño, but solar-powered alternatives can maximize limited water resources in drought-prone areas. By targeting regions such as eastern Luzon, Cagayan Valley, Ilocos, and Western

Still, the scale of the challenge cannot be understated. A “very strong” El Niño typically results in reduced rainfall, lower river flows, and diminished groundwater recharge. For a country where agriculture remains highly dependent on rain-fed systems, this could mean significant declines in rice and corn output, threatening both food security and rural incomes. Fisherfolk also face risks as warmer sea surface temperatures disrupt fish migration patterns and reduce catch volumes. The DA’s fiscal intervention, while substantial, raises questions about sufficiency and long-term impact. P6.2 billion in subsidies and P3.5 billion for irrigation are meaningful, but the persistence of El Niño until mid-2027 suggests that relief measures must evolve into structural reforms. Beyond subsidies, investments in climate-smart agriculture, such as drought-resistant crop varieties, efficient water management, and digital weather advisory systems, will be critical. Moreover, coordination with local governments and farmers’ cooperatives will determine whether resources reach intended beneficiaries promptly and equitably. After all, the onset of El Niño should be viewed not just as a meteorological event, but more so as a governance challenge that demands structural adaptation, foresight and efficiency.

Baguio’s traffic (Part 2)

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno

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WORLD Seoul spy agency Polar oceans transformed says Nokor leader ‘extremely obese’ as warming melts ice habitats

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SEOUL – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is understood to be “extremely obese,” Seoul’s spy agency said Wednesday, citing its latest assessment of the reclusive leader’s health. A heavy smoker who has long been obese, Kim’s health is closely watched internationally as his sudden death could raise questions over succession and stability in the nuclear-armed state. Kim’s “health condition is classified as extremely obese, weighing over 140 kilograms (about 310 pounds),” lawmaker Youn Kun-young said citing Seoul’s spy agency. While he is at “high risk of cardiovascular disease,” Kim has shown no difficulty with physical activity, including running up stairs, Youn added. “It is assessed that there are no signs of health issues, given the close monitoring by (his) dedicated medical team.” Speculation over Kim’s health flared in 2020 when he missed a commemoration of his late grandfather’s birthday and Manila disappeared from public view for about Standard 20 days, fueling rumors that he was seriTODAY ously ill after surgery. Kim’s father Kim Jong Il and grandfather Kim Il Sung were also obese and heavy smokers. Both died of heart attacks. The nuclear-armed country is under multiple sets of sanctions over its weapons programs and has long struggled with a moribund state-managed economy and chronic food shortages. Elizabeth Salmon, the UN special rapporteur on human rights in North Korea, said in February that food shortages are a key humanitarian concern in the country. But Paul Smart, executive chef at Hanoi’s Metropole hotel, who worked with Kim’s personal chefs during the 2019 North Korea-US summit, said at the time that the North Korean leader had a taste for rare meat and luxury foods. According to his chefs – both of them called Kim – the North NOTICE OF DEED OF EXTRAKorean leader JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE INTESTATE ESTATE has expensive OF FRANCISCO GUILERMO tastes, Smart LADRIDO said in 2019. Notice is hereby given to the public that the Deed of Extra “He likes Judicial Settlement of the Intestate Estate of Francisco caviar, lobGuilermo Ladrido has been executed by and among his ster, really heirs, namely: Rosalind luxurious Acosta Ladrido; Andrea Leana Acosta Ladrido product. Foie and Miguel Zandro Acosta Ladrido. As per Doc. No. gras, he really 249; Page No. 51; Book No.233; Series of 2026 of the likes to inNotarial Register/Book of Atty. Geraldine C. Ranillo, Notary dulge in cuiPublic for and in the City of Taguig. sine.” AFP

ARIS — Climate change is increasingly reshaping the polar oceans, with Arctic waters warming rapidly, sea ice shrinking and wildlife losing habitat at both ends of the planet, an annual report said Wednesday. The Copernicus Ocean State Report depicts profound changes across the world’s seas, from record-breaking heatwaves in the Mediterranean and Black seas YELLOW to shifts inBLACK marine ecosysCYAN MAGENTA tems and increasingly acidic waters. “The message is very clear. The ocean is changing rapidly,” said Pierre Bahurel, director general of Mercator Ocean International, which runs the European Union’s Copernicus Marine Service. Some of the more dramatic effects from global warming are taking place in the poles, which occupy around 20 percent of the global ocean surface. The Arctic’s combined sea surface and sea-ice surface temperature rose 4.2C between 1982 and 2024, or around 1C per decade, according to the 10th annual oceans report. By comparison, global sea surface temperatures have been increasing by 0.12C per decade. In the Kara Sea north of Siberia, temperatures have climbed by 6.7C since FISHING SPOT. A man fishes in shallow water in Banda Aceh on September 30, 2026. 1982, or 1.68C per decade. As temperatures rise, Arctic sea ice has shrunk by nearly half a million square kilometers per decade since 1979, equivalent to losing an area the size of Spain every 10 years. The retreating ice exposes Arctic coastlines to waves, worsening coastal TOKYO – A Tokyo court ruled his starring roles in mega-franchises among performers worldwide, and erosion and raising risks for coastal Wednesday that the human voice including “Jujutsu Kaisen” and “Yuthe threat has roiled Japan’s storied communities and infrastructure, the reis legally protected in Japan after a Gi-Oh!” although the court dismissed animation industry, whose voice acport warned. high-profile anime voice actor took his request for removal of the videos. tors are sometimes worshipped as “The Arctic sea ice has been declinTikTok to court over videos he says “The unauthorized use of a permuch as their characters by fans. ing since the early 80s, leaving around 60 feature an artificial intelligence clone former’s voice... can be considered The lawsuit is believed to be the percent of coastal infrastructure vulnerof his “lustrous” baritone. an infringement on publicity rights,” country’s first seeking to defend an able to erosion and sea level rise,” Karina The decision marks a partial vicsaid judge Aya Takahashi. individual’s vocal identity against von Schuckmann, director of the oceans report, said in a media briefing. AFP tory for Kenjiro Tsuda, known for AI imitation is a growing concern AI-generated copies. AFP

Court rules human voice is protected in AI case

(MS-OCT. 1/8/15, 2026)

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Company/ Employer PH GLOBAL JET EXPRESS INC. 20th and 21st floor ECOPRIME BLDG 32nd ST Cor. 9th Ave. BGC Taguig 1630 Nature of business: Other Services Activity Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position Name: ZHANG XUAN Address: Bonifacio Global Taguig BGC Nationality: CHINESE Intended period of employment: One (1) year/s

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Position title - Marketing Manager Job Description: - Monitor the day-to-day marketing operations within the company, such as market data on a local, regional or national level and you will play a key role in creating, implementing, and optimizing marketing campaigns to drive brand awareness, engagement, and sales. You will work closely with the marketing team to develop innovative strategies across various channels, ensuring that all marketing efforts align with company goals and constant communication with the senior professionals in China, Taiwan and other Mandarin speaking counterpart and clients. Qualification (Education, Experience, Professional License, Skills Certification, Specialized Training): -College or University Graduate -Bilingual in Mandarin and English -Marketing Related Experience Applications may be sent to: PH GLOBAL JET EXPRESS INC. hqrecruitment@jtexpress.ph Company hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position. The company has the intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment - National Capital Region located at 967 Maligaya Street Malate Manila Manila

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Company/ Employer PH GLOBAL JET EXPRESS INC. 20th and 21st floor ECOPRIME BLDG 32nd ST Cor. 9th Ave. BGC Taguig 1630 Nature of business: Other Services Activity Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position Name: LIN WEIDONG Address: Bonifacio Global Taguig BGC Nationality: CHINESE Intended period of employment: One (1) year/s Please inform DOLE NCR if you have any information on criminal offences committed by the foreign nationals.

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TOTAL

Certificate No. 89-0004 89-0028 89-0048 89-0049 89-0073 89-0110 89-0111 89-0112

Issuance Date 06/22/1989 06/22/1989 06/30/1989 06/30/1989 06/30/1989 12/31/1989 12/31/1989 12/31/1989

No. of Shares 8,357,900 1,624,000 483,505 93,948 993,647 3,124,055 607,026 351,099 15,635,180

AS PER DOC. NO.: 25; PAGE NO.: 6; BOOK NO.: X; SERIES OF 2026 OF THE NOTARIAL REGISTER/ BOOK OF ATTY. HENSON M. MONTALVO FOR AND IN THE CITY OF MAKATI (MS-OCT. 1/8/15, 2026)

IN BRIEF Thieves swipe drugs with flour under nose of Fiji police SYDNEY – Detectives were sifting leads Wednesday after a massive drug heist in Fiji, searching for dozens of cocaine parcels swiped from an evidence vault and replaced with baking flour. Better known for stunning beaches that draw tourists in droves, the South Pacific nation has become an unlikely stopover for cartels shipping drugs from Latin America into Australia. Fiji Police seized 39 bricks of cocaine in a 2019 raid, each weighing around one kilogram (2.2 pounds) and wrapped in plastic. Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu said investigators noticed seven bricks had gone missing earlier this year. This prompted forensic testing of the remaining haul held inside an evidence vault at the High Court in capital Suva. Tests showed the cocaine once held inside the vault had been swiped under the nose of police and swapped with bundles of flour. “Based on the discovery of the missing seven bars and the tampering of evidence, it was decided to test the remaining parcels – which tested negative for any trace of illicit drugs,” Tudravu told reporters on Wednesday. Previous tests carried out after the bricks were confiscated in 2019 confirmed they held cocaine at the time, he said. “Fiji police is taking seriously the concerns raised by the government. And I give my assurance we are tackling this investigation with utmost urgency,” Tudravu added. Pacific islands such as Fiji and Tonga sit at the crossroads of ocean-trafficking routes used to shift cocaine from Latin America. The so-called “Pacific drug highway” has in recent years been flooded with synthetic methamphetamine. AFP

Three tankers hit in Hormuz, reports maritime agency DUBAI – A British maritime agency said on Wednesday that unknown projectiles struck three ships in the Strait of Hormuz the previous day. A crude oil tanker, LNG tanker and a third vessel had each “been struck by an unknown projectile,” the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Centre (UKMTO) said, without elaborating. The Strait of Hormuz is currently at the center of the Middle East war between Iran and the United States. Around a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passed through the strategic shipping lane before the war. But since the conflict broke out, Tehran has been blocking the passage of commercial ships, firing on vessels it accuses of unauthorized crossings. Washington has responded with a counterblockade of Iranian ports in an effort to prevent Tehran from exporting its oil. AFP

STRANDED. This aerial view photo taken on September 29, 2026 shows visitors watching a 3.5-metre shark trapped in an artificial waterway in the southeastern port city of Busan. The wayward shark has become an unlikely celebrity in South Korea, drawing massive crowds, earning plaudits from the local mayor and even moving the stock market. AFP

Lost shark becomes viral celebrity in South Korea

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

SEOUL – A wayward shark has become an unlikely celebrity in South Korea, drawing massive crowds, earning plaudits from the local mayor and even moving the stock market. The predator – believed to be a bull shark – popped up in an artificial waterway in the port city of Busan on South Korea’s southeast coast this month. Coast guard boats tried to guide the animal back to the sea by spraying water on it, but the shark – affectionately nicknamed ‘Bukhangi’ by fans after the port – did not budge. And while authorities wonder what to do next, the 3.5-meter (11.5-foot) visitor and the crowds it has drawn have provided an unexpected boon to the local economy. Sales of shark-shaped ice cream bars jumped nearly 30 percent at nearby convenience stores. Busan Mayor Chun Jae-soo has thanked the shark for publicity that would otherwise have cost “trillions.” In tribute to its contributions, Bukhangi was elected an honorary public relations ambassador for the city with a stonking 91 percent of the vote.

Others are cashing in – shares in The Pinkfong Company, the studio behind the viral “Baby Shark” song, briefly surged more than seven percent. Bull sharks are usually found in subtropical and tropical waters. Sharks venturing into South Korean waters is “not common at all,” said Kim Jin-koo, a professor of global fisheries at Pukyong National University. “As water temperatures around South Korea have risen, it appears to have moved closer to the country’s coast,” Kim said. The fish’s fame has also been accompanied by a flood of false rumors. A few days after its appearance, authorities said that a second fish had been spotted in the area – prompting some social media users to suggest it was Bukhangi’s child and share AI-generated images purporting to show the pair. An official at Busan’s park policy division told AFP that no additional sharks have been spotted since Bukhangi’s appearance. They also said authorities would make another attempt at moving the shark on Friday. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

SPORTS

A7

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

PH athletics back in Asiad spotlight N AGOYA— More than the medals the national track and field team delivered, the 20th Asian Games proclaimed with unmistakable force the dawn of a new era in Philippine athletics.

At the center of this resurgence stands Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) president Terry Capistrano, whose leadership, vision, and relentless push for excellence have transformed a once‑quiet program into one of the nation’s most dynamic sporting forces. For the first time since Lydia de Vega’s 1986 gold medal in the 100m and silver in the 200m, the Philippines returned to the Asian Games track podium, not once, not twice, but thrice. And for Capistrano, the breakthrough is only the beginning. “The future is bright. We have quite a number of athletes who have shown their might,” said Capistrano said, reflecting on the team’s performance. ``You now have a team that you can seriously say has stepped up to another level.” Across a week of fierce competition, the national team, whose participation is also supported by ICTSI and Bloomberry Cultural Foundation, pieced together a three‑medal performance that signaled both progress and promise in succeeding top-tier competitions. Ernest John Obiena soared to pole vault gold, reaffirming his dominance in Asia in another record-breaking feat. John Cabang

Pole vault gold medalist Ernest John Obiena is flanked by PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio and athletics chief Terry Capistrano.

Tolentino battled through rain and injury to seize bronze in the men’s 110m hurdles. And in the women’s 800m, Victoria Bossong delivered a breakout run, claiming bronze in her Asian Games debut. “Terry Capistrano is God’s gift to Philippine athletics. You will rarely see a sports leader who has the resources, management expertise, passion to excel and precious time for his athletes and association,” said Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick Gregorio. “He’s also gifted with vision, great PR, personality and sense of humor and knows how to celebrate. Thank you, president Terry. Mabuhay ang Philippine athletics,” added the PSC chief. It was a haul that marked the rebirth of a program ready to contend with the continent’s best. “We’ve been concentrating on EJ the previous years, now we also concentrate on these two (Cabang Tolentino and Bossong). We’ll build a team around them,’’ said Capistrano. ``Now, we’ll try to have a team around each of these players. We have to do this full time. At least 50 percent of their time devoted for training. We need physiotherapists and therapists, and a psychologist if necessary,” said Capistrano. He also highlighted the rising potential of Yacine Guermali, whose performance in the 5000m showed that the Philippines now has depth in events once dominated by regional powerhouses. “I think with Bossong, Cabang and Yacine, we have a pretty formidable team plus of course EJ. If we talk about the SEA Games, we’ll be fine and we’ll be competitive in other bigger tournaments as well,’’ said Capistrano.

Ryoma bucks heat, ‘discomfort’to seize ICTSI Iloilo lead Disney+ brings NBA insiders Windhorst, MacMahon to Manila ILOILO – Playing 18 holes in a bowtie under the sweltering heat of an exacting golf course is hardly the ideal recipe for a breakthrough. Yet Miki Ryoma did just that Wednesday, shrugging off the discomfort – and seemingly everything else the Iloilo Golf and Country Club threw at him – to fire a near-flawless 66 and emerge as the bewildered leader halfway through the ICTSI Iloilo Golf Challenge here. The 35-year-old Japanese kept his cool in conditions that tested patience and precision, matching the aggressive charge of a slew of local aces before pulling ahead by one with a clutch run of pars for a six-under 134, one stroke ahead of firstround leader Jhonnel Ababa. “I hit all fairways, reached all greens and made five birdies against one bogey,” said the amiable Ryoma, whose assessment

Miki Ryoma tees off on hole 12 while Jhonnel Ababa reacts after he birdied hole 11 during the 2nd round of the 2026 ICTSI Iloilo Challenge at the Iloilo Golf and Country Club in Iloilo. Manny Marcelo

8- Jhonnel Ababa reacts after he birdied hole 11 during the 2026 ICTSI Iloilo Challenge at the Iloilo Golf and Country Club in Iloilo. Manny Marcelo

underscored the key to surviving the par-70 layout: “The most important thing on this course is the tee shot.” His performance was all the more remarkable considering the heat that replaced the stiff winds of the opening round, without making the course any less demanding. Tough pin placements, tight fairways, thick rough and slick greens continued to punish even the slightest lapse. Ryoma, however, stayed within himself. While most of the leading contenders opted for caution on a layout that demanded patience and precision, he continued to trust his long game, pulling the driver 10 times and consistently putting himself in position to attack. “I didn’t play steady in the first round but hit it solid today. But you really have to be in the fairway to get a chance to make birdies,” said Ryoma, a Saitama native whose closest brush with a Philippine Golf Tour title came in his rookie campaign in 2016, when he lost to Tony Lascuña by one at Eagle Ridge.

Golden Tigresses sweep Lady Chiefs, move one win from V-L Finals UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas rolled to a Game 1 victory over Arellano University, 25–12, 25–18, 25–13, in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge semifinals on Wednesday at the Playtime FilOil Centre. The Golden Tigresses will try to secure a place in the Finals on Saturday at 3 p.m., still at the same San Juan venue. Already up by two sets, the thirdseeded Golden Tigresses stepped on the gas in the third, racing to a 20–9 lead behind captain Reg Jurado’s service ace. Ash Knop scored on two kills, Zinny Unekwe served another ace, and Ella Gutierrez finished with a cross-court spike as the Golden Tigresses completed the sweep in just over an hour. “Siguro ‘yung percentage ng performance namin is nagiging good, tumataas. And siyempre ‘yung pag-adapt nila sa system, slowly naiintindihan nila

‘yung gusto naming mangyari. Lahat ng nakita natin kanina, talagang in-invest namin ‘yan sa training,” said head coach Shaq Delos Santos on how his wards pulled off the win. Angge Poyos led the way on both ends with 19 points from 16 attacks and three aces, to go with nine digs, while Marga Altea added 15 markers, including three blocks. Jurado also posted a double-double of 11 points and 13 digs, while Unekwe chipped in five points off the bench. UST pounced on Arellano’s reception woes early, steadily building a commanding cushion in the opening set, with Unekwe making her presence felt at the net. Poyos’ booming kill restored UST’s eight-point, 18–10 advantage before her ace stretched the lead to double digits at 21–11, eventually allowing the Golden Tigresses to take the opening set.

ESPN NBA insiders Brian Windhorst and Tim MacMahon will meet Filipino basketball fans when Disney+ brings The Hoop Collective World Tour to Manila on October 5. The visit will feature a special live recording of The Hoop Collective podcast, giving a selected audience an opportunity to interact with two veteran journalists who cover the league’s biggest players, teams and developments. The campaign highlights the conversations, insights and shared experiences that bring basketball fans together beyond the action on the court. Limited audience slots are available for the live podcast recording. Fans may pre-register through the Brian Windhorst and The Hoop Collective: World Tour Manila registration form for a chance to attend. Windhorst has covered the NBA since 2003 and joined ESPN in 2010, reporting across its television, digital and audio platforms. He appears on

NBA Countdown, NBA Today, Get Up and First Take, and has hosted The Hoop Collective since 2014. He is also the author of the New York Times bestsellers “Return of the King,” which chronicles the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 2016 championship, and “LeBron Inc.,” which examines LeBron James’ rise as a businessman. MacMahon has covered the NBA for ESPN since 2009, primarily as a reporter for ESPN.com, and has been a regular contributor to The Hoop Collective since 2017. His television appearances include NBA Today, Get Up and SportsCenter. He also wrote “Wonder Boy: Luka Doncic and the Curse of Greatness,” a book about the NBA superstar. Their Manila appearance will precede the NBA Tip-Off on Disney+ Philippines, which begins streaming on October 22. Fans can check the NBA on Disney+ game schedule and updates at www. disney.ph/NBA.

The Manila stop forms part of Disney+’s “The Plus Side of Basketball” campaign ahead of its coverage of the 20262027 NBA season.

EJ Obiena thinking ‘happy thoughts’ By Riera U. Mallari NAGOYA (Powered by PLDT Home)—Ernest John Obiena was happy again. There he was, basking in the glow of his recent recordsmashing Asian Games triumph, drizzled in the Nagoya rain for all the world to see. It was a complete contrast to the heartbroken EJ, who cried on national TV during the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he was supposed to clinch a medal, but couldn’t because of a nagging back injury. “I’m enjoying it again,” said EJ, flashing the smile of someone who is bound to get a cash windfall from the government. Again. “I’m happy to be going to training. I’m happy to be here. I’m happy to compete. I’m happy to take the risk,” he said. Months after his Paris grief, Obiena felt like the sport was less like flying

Ernest John Obiena POC Media

and more like carrying a heavy load and high-stakes pressure. But slowly but surely, Obiena chipped away at the sorrow with one victory after the other in the European circuit. The heavy anchor of pressure has now slipped away, replaced by a feeling he hadn’t felt in a long time --

pure, unadulterated joy. In J.M. Barrie’s classic tale, Peter Pan tells the Darling children that in order to fly, you don’t need wings -just a pinch of fairy dust and a mind filled with “happy thoughts.” For EJ, his fiberglass pole is the magic wand. But the lift-off? That is from the happiness within. It was clear that EJ was a cut above the rest in Asia as his 5.75 meters proved enough to win him his second straight Asiad gold medal. China’s Yao Jie took silver, while compatriot Li Chenyang settled for bronze, both at 5.7 meters. EJ could have called it a night with gold already in hand. But he wasn’t leaving the Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium without his piece of history, asking officials to raise the bar to 5.91 meters, one centimeter higher than the record he had set three years ago in Hangzhou.

SPORTS

A8

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

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

Pagdanganan’s back-nine blitz fuels Asiad medal bid NAGOYA, Japan—Bianca Pagdanganan put up a scorching back-nine performance on Wednesday, firing a three-under 67 to put herself in individual medal contention and keep the Philippines within striking distance in the team event after Round 1 of the Asian Games women’s golf competition at Kasugai Country Club’s East Course. Pagdanganan, the sole holdover from the country’s double-gold sweep at the 2018 Jakarta Games, bounced back from a ninth-hole double bogey with a blistering 31 after the turn. Her opening-round 67 tied her for third place, four strokes behind Singapore’s pacesetter Shannon Tan, who carded a impressive 63. India’s Sharath Urs Pranavi sits in second after a 66. The ICTSI-backed long hitter stumbled early with a opening bogey, but quickly recovered with birdies on Nos. 6 and 8. After dropping two shots on the par-70 course’s ninth hole, Pagdanganan ignited her backside rally with back-to-back birdies on 10 and 11, added another on the par-5 13th, and stuck her tee shot close on the par-3 15th for her final birdie of the day. Pagdanganan’s surge anchored the Philippine squad, which posted a combined 137 to tie India for sixth in the team competition — five shots behind leader Singapore (132). Under the tournament’s three-to-play, two-tocount format, only the top two scores per country are tallied. Amateur and Duke University freshman Rianne Malixi provided the second counted score with an even-par 70. Malixi mounted a mid-round charge with three consecutive birdies starting on No. 13 to reach two under, but late bogeys on the final two holes dropped her into a share of 14th place.

Bianca Pagdanganan NGAP

Maroons turn back Eagles with late surge UNIVERSITY of the Philippines rallied from 13 points down to defeat Ateneo de Manila University, 8982, and secure its first win in the UAAP Season 89 women’s basketball tournament on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. It was a winning debut for head coach Eric Altamirano, who returned to the UAAP after 10 years. Altamirano last coached in the league with National University’s men’s basketball team in 2016. The Fighting Maroons also wore retro throwback jerseys inspired by the 1986 UP men’s basketball championship team. “First of all, it’s good to be back here in the UAAP. We’re happy with the outcome of the game; it was kind of scary for us. Talagang it was a comefrom-behind; we had to dig deep, especially in the fourth quarter. But I’m proud of these girls, their resiliency, being able to overcome the lead of Ateneo,” Altamirano said. The Fighting Maroons trailed by six, 77-71, with 4:38 remaining before Kennan Ka and Louna Ozar brought UP within two, 77-75. After Kacey Dela Rosa split her free throws on the other end, Camille Nolasco drilled a triple to tie the game at 78-all with 3:21 to play. From there, the floodgates opened for UP, as Marielle Vingno’s jumper gave the Fighting Maroons their first lead since the opening minutes of the game. Nolasco then knocked down another three-pointer to give UP an 8378 advantage. With both teams already in the penalty, the Fighting Maroons capitalized from the free-throw line to put the game away. Ateneo led by as many as 13 points in the third quarter, with Dela Rosa already erupting for 17 points and eight rebounds in the first half alone.

The gritty Carlo Paalam fought through blood and penalty to reach the Asiad boxing final. POC Media Pool

Gritty Paalam punches ticket to Asiad gold bout By Riera U. Mallari

N

AGOYA (Powered by PLDT Home)—Tokyo Olympic silver medalist Carlo Paalam punched his ticket to the Men’s 55kg gold medal match at the 20th Asian Games after surviving a thrilling, gritty, and blood-drawn semifinal clash against Kazakhstan’s Makhmud Sabyrkhan at the Nishio Gymnasium on Wednesday. Setting the tone early, the Bukidnon pride dominated the opening frame,taking Round 1 with a 10-9 score on four of the five judges’ scorecards. He then engaged the two-time world champion in a fierce, tactical battle of counters over the final two rounds. “Unahan lang kami paano magcounter,” said Paalam, noting how he followed coach Elmer Pamisa’s strategy to strike first and land the

final counter punch. The high-stakes bout reached a boiling point in a grueling third round, where Paalam had to overcome both a point deduction and physical punishment to secure the 3-2 splitdecision victory. “Pinapakita ko sa referee na Pinoy tayo, dugo natin ‘to, kahit magkamatayan tayo... ibibigay talaga sa last round,” he said.

The win assured the Philippines of at least a silver medal and puts Paalam on the brink of history as he stands just one win away from ending the nation’s 16-year Asian Games boxing gold medal drought, a feat last accomplished by Rey Saludar at the 2010 Guangzhou Games. As the sole survivor of the sixmember national men’s boxing squad, the veteran fighter carries the hopes of the country into the finals. Despite securing a spot on the podium, Paalam revealed the heavy mental toll and online criticism he has carried throughout his campaign, appealing to fans for unity and prayers. “Please po support me. Walang bashing sa mga Pilipinong lumalaban sa Asian Games kasi lahat hirap talagang kumuha ng medal... Sana po pagdasal niyo kami at sana makuha natin yung gold medal soon po,” Paalam said. Standing between Paalam and

the gold is 22-year-old hometown favorite Rui Yamaguchi of Japan, who advanced after a dominant 5-0 victory over Mongolia’s Bilguunsaikhan Kharhuu. Yamaguchi, ranked in the top 10 of the amateur bantamweight division, brings solid momentum, experience from the 2026 World Boxing Cup and Asian Boxing Elite Championships, and the Nagoya crowd into the final. Despite the hostile territory, the Philippine camp remains steadfast. Coach Elmer Pamisa expressed total confidence in his fighter’s conditioning “Kahit sino diyan kaya na natin, kasi maganda naman ‘yung condition ni Carlo, wala naman tayong problema,” said Pamisa. On the other hand, Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) President Marcus Manalo made it clear that the team isn’t settling for silver, they are going all out for the gold.

Sibol MLBB exits Asiad, settles for joint fifth place By Jeremiah Sevilla TAKONAME (Powered by PLDT Home) Sibol’s Mobile Legends: Bang Bang team bade farewell to its medal hopes after suffering a heartbreaking 1-2 loss to perennial rival Indonesia in the 20th Asian Games quarterfinals on Wednesday at the Aichi Sky Expo in Tokoname City. Sibol MLBB stormed back to force a deciding Game 3 but was not able to find an answer against the aggressive triple fighter lineup of the Indonesians as the Filipinos missed out on the podium. It was a disappointing finish for the Sibol squad represented by the core of four-time MPL Philippines winner Team Liquid PH as it was touted as a strong gold medal contender in Mobile Legends’ debut in the continental meet’s esports competition. The Filipino MLBB team instead found itself in joint fifth place

(From left to right) Sibol Mobile Legends team’s Allec Alvarado, Sanford Vinuya, Alston Pabico, Jaypee Dela Cruz, Duane Pillas, Karl Nepomuceno, Dave Viaña, Michael Angelo Bocado, and Kim Sebanes Courtesy: Sibol

with Cambodia, Jordan, and Hong Kong, while fellow Southeast Asian powerhouses Malaysia, Myanmar, and Indonesia as well as Mongolia advanced to the medal rounds.

After Sibol dropped the series opener, Sanford Marin “Sanford” Vinuya made crucial plays on his Sora, setting up multiple team fights with well-timed Shifting Skies to power the

12-minute victory in Game 2. Sibol, however, could not keep up with Indonesia’s early aggression behind a solid hero draft anchored on fighters Aulus, Lukas, and Badang that effectively shut down star jungler Karl “KarlTzy” Nepomuceno on Nolan. The Filipinos had lost map control at the 10-minute mark, with the Indonesians taking down six turrets, securing three Turtles, and claiming a Lord to build a comfortable 7,000-gold lead. The Philippines tried to prolong the game and give Dave “Teddy” Viana’s Bruno space to farm his items for a potential comeback, but Indonesia played the objectives flawlessly before capping off the upset with the Lord in 16 minutes. Sibol MLBB was also bannered by Alston “Sanji” Pabico, Jaypee “Jaypee” Dela Cruz, and ONIC ID standout Duane “Kelra” Pillas under head coach Allec “SN4P” Alvarado.

Eala books semifinal clash with China’s Wang

Alex Eala is assured of Asiad tennis bronze with a sweep over Taipei’s Joanna Garland POC Media Pool

NAGOYA (Powered by PLDT Home)—Filipina tennis ace Alexandra “Alex” Eala bucked a lethargic start before sweeping Chinese Taipei’s Joanna Garland, 7-5, 6-0, to secure at least a bronze medal in the 20th Asian Games women’s singles event on Wednesday at the Nagoya City Higashiyama Park Tennis Center in Japan. World No. 18 and Asiad top seed Eala overcame an early deficit, then sustained her momentum in the second set to dispatch No. 143 and eighth seed Garland in the quarterfinals, assuring the Philippines of another medal in the continental meet. The 21-year-old Eala has already matched her bronze finish at the 2023 Hangzhou tilt, but she is determined to make the most of skipping the WTA 1000 China Open and contend for the gold that comes with a ticket to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The Filipina aims to move closer to her gold medal bid when she takes on China’s No. 85 and fourth seed Wang Xiyu in the semifinals scheduled for Thursday. Wang beat No. 106 and sixth seed Moyu-

ka Uchijima of Japan, 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, in their quarterfinal tiff. After opening her campaign on an indoor court due to inclement weather, Eala finally got to play before a Filipino-dominated crowd on Center Court. Drawing strength from the fervent Pinoy fans, Eala fought back from 4-5 down and capped off a three-game comeback with a blazing serve to clinch the opening set. It was all Eala from there as the Pinay lefty blasted a variety of winners to wrap up the convincing victory with a bagel after an hour and 49 minutes. Eala’s busy day was not over yet as she and Shaira Rivera were facing China’s third-seeded pair of Jiang Xinyu and Yang Zhaoxuan in the women’s doubles second round at press time. Rivera and veteran Francis Casey Alcantara were also set to battle Japan’s Shuko Aoyama and Yusuke Kusuhara in the mixed doubles second round. Earlier, Tenny Madis and Stefi Aludo bowed out of women’s doubles after losing to Chinese Taipei’s fifth-seeded duo of Chan Hao-ching and Wu Fang-hsien, 3-6, 1-6.

BUSINESS

B1

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

August exports hit record $9.1b $9.11 billion P Exports in August 2026

$12.96 billion Imports in August 2026

$3.85 billion

HILIPPINE merchandise exports jumped 27.8 percent in August 2026 from a year ago to a record $9.11 billion, the highest monthly figure since the series began in 1991, government data showed.

Exports were $7.13 billion in August 2025. Growth accelerated from July, when exports rose 10.9 percent, and from 5.5 percent in August last year. Electronic products drove the gain, with export value up $2.32 billion from a year earlier. Gold rose $41.83 million, and electronic equipment and parts rose $32.09 million. Electronic products remained the country’s top export, earning $6.20 billion, or 68.1 percent of total exports. Other mineral products followed with $393.54 million (4.3 percent), then gold with $321.27 million (3.5 percent).

Exports from January to August totaled $64.04 billion, up 14.8 percent from $55.80 billion a year earlier. That was also the highest eight-month value on record. Imports rose 16.6 percent in August to $12.96 billion from $11.12 billion a year earlier. The figure was the lowest since February, when imports were $11.40 billion. In July, imports rose 23.0 percent, while in August 2025 they fell 0.3 percent. Electronic products posted the largest import increase, up $1.71 billion. Mineral fuels, lubricants and related

materials rose $516.39 million, and cereals and cereal preparations rose $97.11 million. Electronic products were also the biggest import category by value at $4.51 billion, or 34.8 percent of total imports. Mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials followed at $1.85 billion (14.3 percent), then transport equipment at $906.05 million (7.0 percent). Imports from January to August reached $105.60 billion, up 19.1 percent from $88.69 billion a year ago and the highest on record. The balance of trade in goods, or the difference between exports and imports, showed a deficit of $3.85 billion in August. That was 3.5 percent narrower than a year earlier and the smallest deficit since May 2025, when it was $3.64 billion.

Trade deficit in August 2026 RTB LAUNCH.

The Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) celebrates the 25th anniversary of its Retail Treasury Bond (RTB) program with the launch of RTB 32, the latest offering designed to provide Filipinos with an accessible avenue to invest in government securities while supporting the country’s development priorities. RTB 32 has a tenor of 2.5 years and a gross interest rate of 6.875 percent per annum with quarterly coupons payable until its maturity in April 2029. During the auction, the BTr received P188.64 billion in tenders, resulting in an oversubscription of 6.29 times the initial P30.0 billion offering and awarded P84.87 billion.

PH fell two places to 52nd in 2026 Global Innovation Index By Othel V. Campos THE Philippines fell two places to 52nd among 139 economies in the 2026 Global Innovation Index (GII), but the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) said the country remains one of the strongest longterm innovation climbers among middle-income economies. The Philippines scored 33.8 points, down from its 50th-place ranking in 2025, when it broke into the global

top 50. It ranked third among lowermiddle-income economies and 11th in Southeast Asia, East Asia and Oceania. WIPO listed the Philippines alongside China, India, Viet Nam, Türkiye, Morocco and Indonesia among the middle-income economies that have made the strongest advances in innovation since 2013. The agency said the Philippines has built firms, sectors and production networks that can convert selected

strengths into innovation results. The country continued to perform better on innovation outputs than inputs, ranking 49th in outputs against 69th in inputs. High-tech trade remained a major strength. The Philippines ranked fourth globally in high-tech exports, sixth in high-tech imports and 23rd in high-tech manufacturing. Its ICT services exports ranked 18th worldwide. WIPO said the Philippines and other middle-ranked Asian economies

are strongly integrated into regional and global value chains through hightech trade, manufacturing and ICT services. Among the seven GII pillars, the Philippines ranked 37th in knowledge and technology outputs, its strongest area. It placed 49th in business sophistication, 55th in creative outputs, 58th in institutions, 64th in infrastructure, 84th in market sophistication and 100th in human capital and research.

IN BRIEF September inflation likely quickened—BSP PHILIPPINE inflation likely rose to between 6.4 percent and 7.4 percent in September 2026 as weather disturbances pushed up prices, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Wednesday. The BSP said weather-related price increases for vegetables, fish, rice and fruit drove the pressure. Higher domestic fuel prices and a weaker peso also contributed to faster inflation, it said. “These pressures could be partially offset by lower prices of meat and electricity rates,” the BSP said. The Philippine Statistics Authority will release the September inflation data on Oct. 6. Headline inflation eased to 6.1 percent in August from 6.2 percent in July as food and electricity prices grew more slowly. The BSP said it will keep assessing the impact of developments in the Middle East and recent weather disturbances on inflation and the economic outlook. Thony Rose Lesaca

NTC studies permit on used phone trading THE National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is proposing stricter rules on the importation and sale of used and refurbished mobile phones, tablets and other customer premises equipment (CPE), including a mandatory permit for dealers, as it seeks to crack down on stolen, illegally acquired and defective devices. The NTC said the proposed regulation aims to prevent the unauthorized sale of stolen or illegally acquired phones and curb the trade of tampered and defective devices. It said the framework would also establish a clear and proportionate system that allows the legitimate refurbishment, importation and resale of used devices. Under the proposal, no person or entity may import, purchase for resale, sell, lease, distribute or retail used or refurbished mobile phones, tablets and similar devices without a valid

refurbished mobile phone dealer permit (RMPDP) from the NTC. Only properly documented and legitimately sourced devices with original NTC type approval may be imported for refurbishment and resale. The NTC presented the proposal at a public hearing at its central office on Sept 23. Public telecommunications entities, prospective applicants and other industry stakeholders attended. Stakeholders raised issues including the protection of intellectual property and other rights reserved by manufacturers, and the NTC has received written comments. Darwin G. Amojelar

ABS-CBN shareholders approve P6-b investment ABS-CBN Corp. shareholders on Wednesday approved a P6-billion cash infusion from the Lopez family and a new investor, giving the struggling media giant fresh money to rebuild after its net loss more than doubled in the first half of the year. The new funds will come from companies representing three branches of the Lopez family (Crème Investment Corp., Mantes Corp. and Presta Holding Co. Inc.), as well as Lopez Inc. and new investor I&C Holdings Corp., the company said. Stockholders representing 83 percent of ABS-CBN’s outstanding voting shares approved the proposals. Shareholders also voted to expand the board of directors from seven to nine members, allowing representatives of the additional investors to join. ABS-CBN will submit the amendments to its Articles of Incorporation, including the increase in the number of shares it may issue and the board expansion, to the Securities and Exchange Commission for approval. The company said earlier that the investments form part of its efforts to build the “new ABS-CBN” as it expands across multiple platforms and businesses. It reaches audiences through television, streaming, digital platforms, film, music, live events and international markets. Darwin G. Amojelar

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

Weak peso pushes up gov’t debt to P19.6t By Thony Rose Lesaca THE Philippine national government’s outstanding debt rose 1.12 percent, or P217.62 billion, to P19.61 trillion at the end of August from P19.39 trillion in July. The Bureau of the Treasury said total debt also grew 10.72 percent, or P1.90 trillion, from P17.71 trillion at the end of December 2025. Domestic debt made up 67.53 percent of the total, and external obligations made up 32.47 percent. Domestic debt climbed 0.99 percent, or P130.37 billion, in August to P13.24 trillion from P13.11 trillion in July. Net issuances of government securities worth P127.85 billion drove most of the increase. The peso depreciation against the US dollar added P2.52 billion to the peso value of onshore dollar bonds. The peso weakened to 62.209 per dollar at the end of August from 61.327 at the end of July. Domestic debt rose 9.27 percent, or P1.12 trillion, from P12.12 trillion at the end of December 2025. The increase reflects the cumulative effect of financing activities and valuation effects from exchange rate movements. External debt rose 1.39 percent, or P87.25 billion, in August to P6.37 trillion from P6.28 trillion in July. Peso depreciation against the dollar lifted the peso value of foreign-currency debt by P90.32 billion, and net availment of external loans added P2.86 billion. Favorable movements in third currencies against the dollar offset P5.93 billion of the increase. The Treasury said that since the end of December 2025, external debt has risen 13.87 percent, or P775.74 billion, from P5.59 trillion. Net external borrowings of P452.92 billion and adverse exchange rate valuation effects of P322.82 billion accounted for the increase.

Tubig Pilipinas plans P1.8-b follow-on offer By Jenniffer B. Austria

EMPLOYEE-VOLUNTEERS. Reinforcing its commitment to environmental

stewardship and cleaner coastal communities, 2GO Group Inc. mobilizes 149 employee-volunteers across key coastal locations nationwide for this year’s International Coastal Cleanup (ICC), in partnership with SM Cares. As part of the annual global initiative, 2GO teams participated in coastal cleanup activities across Cagayan de Oro, Zamboanga, Davao, Cebu, and Manila, helping remove waste from shorelines and supporting efforts to keep coastal communities clean. In Manila, 2GO volunteers collected 207 kilograms of waste from the cleanup sites.

NTC fines on DITO, Globe, Smart raise due process concerns—PCTO By Darwin Amojelar THE Philippine Chamber of Telecommunication Operators (PCTO) said the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) fined telecommunications operators through show cause orders before giving them adequate notice or a meaningful chance to contest its findings after a recent network performance validation. “This raises serious due process concerns,” PCTO said in a statement. The NTC on Sept. 24 issued show cause orders (SCOs) against DITO Telecommunity Corp., Globe Telecom Inc. and Smart Communications Inc. It fined each P100,000 daily after finding no measurable improvement

in their mobile broadband services in several areas of the National Capital Region during September revalidation tests. PCTO also questioned the technical basis of the validation, saying the regulator has not sufficiently disclosed the methodologies, metrics, parameters, testing conditions and other technical criteria it used to determine alleged non-compliance. Without those details, operators cannot properly verify the results or contest the findings, the group said. PCTO pointed to NTC Memorandum Circular No. 001-01-2026, which provides for annual performance audits, and said the detailed methodologies and parameters for such testing have yet to be established.

TUBIG Pilipinas Holdings Inc. is seeking to raise up to P1.8 billion through a follow-on offering to increase its public float and fund its pipeline of water projects. Company president Ryan Wesley Yapkianwee told reporters the offering, which is required after the company’s backdoor listing via Coal Asia Holdings Inc., will likely take place in January 2027. Yapkianwee said Tubig Pilipinas is initially looking to raise P1.2 billion, enough to lift its public stake to 20 percent. Institutional and cornerstone investors have signaled interest in the offering, he said. The offering will consist entirely of primary shares. Existing shareholders do not plan to sell any stake because they want to maintain their current ownership. China Bank Capital is the underwriter, while AB Capital has expressed interest in participating. Proceeds will fund water projects, including a bulk water project in Cebu that the company expects to complete this year and a recently closed 25-year concession in Bataan. Tubig Pilipinas also hopes the trading suspension on its shares will be lifted this month. The Philippine Stock Exchange suspended trading in December last year, but the company has since complied with reportorial requirements, including filing its registration statement and quarterly financial report. After the suspension is lifted, the company plans to infuse water assets valued at about P12 billion into the listed entity. Tubig Pilipinas is a Philippine water holding company that operates, manages, maintains and rehabilitates waterworks, sewerage and sanitation systems.

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extrastory2000@gmail.com

Stocks, peso slip on inflation concerns By Jenniffer B. Austria

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HILIPPINE stocks fell below 5,700 on Wednesday to their lowest level this year as investors turned cautious after the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) warned that inflation could accelerate in September. The peso also weakened. The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) shed 58.92 points, or 1.03 percent, to close at 5,679.48. The broader all-shares index lost 23.75 points, or 0.74 percent, to 3,179.08. The peso closed at 62.64 against the US dollar from 62.56 on Tuesday.

Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said market sentiment remained cautious after the BSP warned that inflation could rise to as high as 7.4 percent in September. “This further weighed on investor confidence amid concerns over the potential implications for monetary policy and economic growth,” Limlingan said. Most sectoral indices ended lower, led by services, which dropped 1.84 percent. Financials fell 1.28 percent, while mining and oil declined 1.21 percent. Industrial stocks lost 0.61 percent and property shares slipped 0.10 percent. Holding firms bucked the trend, rising 0.21 percent. Market breadth remained negative, with 106 decliners against 74 gainers, while 71 stocks were unchanged. Total market turnover reached P7.9 billion. Conglomerate Ayala Corp. jumped 2.04 percent to P500. Century Pacific Food Inc. fell 2.56 percent to P32.40. Stocks in Asia mostly rose on Wednesday after

a plunge in oil prices the previous day, while investors awaited the release of key US inflation data later in the day.

Both main crude contracts tumbled on Tuesday on lingering hopes for an eventual deal to end the US-Iran war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, even though talks remain at a standstill and both sides have sent mixed messages. News that Saudi Arabia had restored about half the capacity of its East-West pipeline, which was closed this month after drone attacks, also boosted sentiment. The pipeline had been a key alternative route for Saudi oil shipments while Hormuz was choked off. The Trump administration also ordered the release of more oil from US emergency reserves. Brent crude shed more than 2 percent and West Texas Intermediate more than 3 percent to fall below $90 a barrel. Both held their losses on Wednesday. Tokyo, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Sydney, Wellington, Taipei and Mumbai rose, while Seoul, Singapore, Manila, Jakarta and Bangkok dipped. With AFP

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

SEC proposes single rulebook for foundations By Jenniffer B. Austria

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HE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is seeking to streamline compliance requirements for foundations by consolidating existing reportorial and registration requirements into a single set of rules. Under the draft, foundations would have one reference for their organizational, reportorial and continuing compliance requirements, including the necessary forms, templates, instructions and procedures. The rules would cover all foundations registered with or applying for registration with the SEC. The draft defines a foundation as a nonstock, nonprofit corporation established to provide grants or endowments or raise funds for charitable, religious, educational, athletic, cultural, literary, scientific, social welfare and similar purposes. Applicants should organize as nonstock, nonprofit corporations and include the word “Foundation” in their corporate names. They should also maintain minimum paid-up capital of P1 million, supported by a notarized certificate of bank deposit. The proposed rules also consolidate reporting requirements. Foundations with total assets or liabilities exceed-

ing P3 million should submit audited financial statements. Those below the threshold may submit unaudited financial statements signed under oath by designated officers. Foundations should file the statements within 120 days from the end of the fiscal year or based on the SEC’s annual filing schedule. To reduce the reporting burden, the SEC also proposes to replace the older, multi-document requirement under Revised Rule 68 of Republic Act No. 8799, or the Securities Regulation Code, with three simplified nonstock, nonprofit organization forms. The forms would cover disclosures on the operations, activities, governance, programs, projects and use of funds of foundations and other nonstock, nonprofit organizations. Foundations that fail to file the required forms would face a P5,000 annual fine, while those that file late would pay a P2,500 annual penalty.

CO-BRANDED. In celebration of the 2026 Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANAMo

2026), the Department of Foreign Affairs teams up with AF Payments Inc. (AFPI) for a limited edition co-branded Beep card that was launched during the BEACON Expo 2026 on Sept. 29, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. The card designs are based on artworks by the Filipino artist Mary Joy Ann Tuaño and are the same as those of the official commemorative stamps issued for the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea in July. Julie Ann Lope

Intellicare paid P9.35b in healthcare claims in first half By Darwin G. Amojelar INTELLICARE paid P9.35 billion in healthcare benefits and claims in the first half of 2026, the health maintenance organization (HMO) said Wednesday, as the industry expanded amid rising medical costs. The payments covered consultations, diagnostic procedures, treatments, emergency care and hospitalization for members through the company’s healthcare network. Intellicare reported P12.57 billion in revenues and P21.88 billion in total assets as of June 30. Across the industry, healthcare benefits and claims reached P41.23 billion in the six months ended June 30, up 13.62 percent from P36.29 billion a year earlier, Insurance Commission

data showed. Industry revenues rose 19.99 percent to P56.43 billion, while membership fees increased 19.71 percent to P54.82 billion. Total industry assets reached P99.64 billion at endJune, up 18.75 percent from a year

earlier. Intellicare said the claims show members receiving medical care while reducing expenses that could otherwise strain household finances. “Members rely on us not only for access to healthcare providers but also for the assurance that their healthcare coverage will be there when they need it,” Intellicare president Jeremy Matti said. “For many Filipinos, healthcare concerns are also financial concerns. Every healthcare claim paid represents a member receiving care, support, and peace of mind. Our responsibility is to help ensure that members can focus on getting better instead of worrying about how they will pay for treatment,” Matti said.

PH solar projects that did not take off —“—

‘Risks and opportunities define business propositions and balancing them is the job of the proponent.’ SOLAR farms are exotic renewable energy options that are eco-friendly and, in the long run, more efficient than traditional power sources. But they carry business risks as any other conventional energy sources. Businessmen take risks. Some projects succeed while others fail. Still, others are sold when a bigger investor sees value in them. Risks and opportunities define business propositions and balancing them is the job of the proponent. None of these also constitute plunder, especially when no public funds are used. That distinction seems to be getting lost in the controversy involving Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste’s solar ventures and the preliminary investigation that has also drawn in his mother, Sen. Loren Legarda. Lawyer Tony La Viña, spokesperson for Legarda, raised a point that deserves attention beyond the politics and the noise: Are authorities confusing business risk, corporate transactions and unrealized projects with theft of public money? The numbers make that question important. Government officials have referred to billions of pesos supposedly connected with Leviste’s solar projects. But La Viña says no government money financed these ventures. The capital came from private investors, corporate equity and commercial financing. There’s another complication. La Viña says the much-discussed Department of Energy (DOE) demand letter—initially reported at P24 billion and later associated with a figure of about P10 billion— was addressed to Emmanuel Rubio of SP New Energy Corp., or SPNEC. SPNEC is no longer Leviste’s company in the ordinary business sense. Meralco PowerGen Corp., or MGen, acquired majority control of SPNEC in 2024. Corporate obligations cannot simply jump back from one juridical entity to another because the companies share some history. Solar Para sa Bayan Corp. is another entity altogether. Its congressional franchise was nonexclusive. According to La Viña, the franchise never became operational because the DOE did not issue the implementing rules and did not identify areas where the company could operate. The franchise was automatically revoked under its own terms.

That looks less like a P10-billion robbery and more like a business model that never got off the ground. There is also the matter of renewable-energy service contracts. A service contract is not a guarantee that a solar farm will rise immediately. Developers must first secure land, financing, permits and grid connections and establish whether a project is commercially feasible. Some projects will inevitably fail. Just recently, ACEN Corp., the Ayala Group’s renewable energy arm, surrendered two solar service contracts—a planned 336-MW facility in Pagbilao, Quezon, and a 120-MW project in Botolan, Zambales—due to land acquisition and site access challenges. That’s precisely why investors—not taxpayers— normally shoulder development risk. Companies can lose millions studying sites that never generate a single kilowatt-hour. Leviste certainly played aggressively in this market. His companies accumulated numerous solar service contracts and tried business models that challenged the traditional structure of the power industry. Such strategies can fairly be examined by regulators. But regulation and criminal prosecution are different things. The state may cancel contracts, impose penalties or collect financial obligations when developers fail to meet contractual milestones. La Viña says the legitimate penalties assessed against Leviste-controlled companies, amounting to roughly P90 million, have been paid. Those are normal instruments of commercial regulation. But the greater danger is the signal being sent to investors. The Philippines needs enormous private capital to build renewable-energy capacity. Investors already contend with permitting delays, transmission constraints, land problems and shifting regulation. If an unsuccessful privately-financed project can later be portrayed as plunder without first establishing where public money was stolen, entrepreneurial risk acquires an entirely different meaning. Scrutiny is necessary. Accountability is essential. But government should know the clear distinction between a failed investment and stolen public funds. E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com

DIGITAL CREDIT. Micro-entrepreneurs in Cebu are turning to digital credit to

replace high-interest daily loans, seeking a cushion as economic growth and consumer spending soften nationwide. For 35-year-old nail tech Dyan, switching from informal loans to GLoan Negosyo gave her the financial flexibility to restock supplies and expand her home-service client calls in Cebu City.

Banks’ foreign currency loans increased 5.6% to $16.31b in Q2 By Thony Rose Lesaca BANKS’ foreign currency loans grew 5.6 percent to $16.31 billion at end-June 2026 from $15.44 billion in the previous quarter, as export-oriented firms and other industries borrowed more, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Wednesday. Philippine-based borrowers held $11.65 billion of the outstanding debt, while non-residents borrowed the remaining $4.65 billion, the BSP said. Among domestic borrowers, the transport and logistics sector, which includes towing, tanker, trucking, forwarding, personal and other industries, received the largest share, with $3.07 billion in outstanding loans. Merchandise and service

exporters borrowed $2.85 billion, while power generation companies owed $1.86 billion. Medium- to long-term loans with maturities of more than 1 year made up 73.3 percent of the total, down from 77.1 percent in the first quarter, the central bank said. Loan disbursements reached $11.99 billion in the second quarter, while repayments totaled $11.20 billion. Foreign currency deposits stood at $60.11 billion at end-June. Foreign currency deposit unit (FCDU) loans support economic activities that require foreign exchange, including those of importers, businesses and individuals with international exchange transactions.

BINONDO

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FFCCCII announces more than P6 million in Caring Teachers Rewards for 490 teachers and a new Philippine Chinese Education Foundation with over P70 million raised.

Filipino-Chinese teachers recognized F

By Michael Wong Ho

EDERATION of Filipino Chiense Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) president Victor Lim announced that a foundation set up by the family of Chinese community leader Chen Zu Chang will give more than P6 million in “Caring Teachers Rewards” to 490 teachers from 67 Filipino-Chinese schools across the Philippines. Lim spoke at the 2026 Chinese Teachers’ Day celebration and “Respect Teachers and Value Education” awards ceremony at the Federation Building in Binondo, Manila. The FFCCCII organized the event with the Association of ChineseFilipino Schools in the Philippines (ACFSP).

The FFCCCII and other Filipino-Chinese community organizations also agreed to establish the Philippine Chinese Education Foundation, which has raised more than P70 million. The foundation is drafting a 5-year plan to promote the welfare, professional development

and training of Filipino-Chinese teachers. Lim said the FFCCCII has consistently supported programs to improve teachers’ welfare. He paid tribute to Filipino-Chinese educators for their contributions and expressed appreciation for their dedication and achievements. He said teachers play a vital role in preserving and passing on Chinese culture, and a stable, strong teaching workforce is essential to the continued development of Filipino-Chinese education.

Chinese education serves as an important foundation for preserving the community’s cultural identity, Lim said. It helps younger generations balance their identity as Filipino citizens with their Chinese heritage while developing the advantages of both cultures. Chinese Embassy Consul General Wang Wei conveyed the embassy’s respect and appreciation for Filipino-Chinese teachers. She thanked community organizations for their longstanding support for Chinese education.

FFCCCII, judges’ group reaffirm partnership

Two Filipino hospitality students from St. Anne College Lucena win gold at the 2026 Asian Pastry Young Chefs Challenge in Guangzhou, China.

Filipino student chefs win gold at Asian contest By Julie Ann Lope A PHILIPPINE team of two hospitality management students won gold medals at the 2026 Asian Pastry Young Chefs Challenge (APYCC) in Guangzhou, China, presenting Filipino flavors to an international audience. The Pastry Alliance of the Philippines endorsed the team, which competed Sept. 10 to 12, 2026 at the Canton Fair Complex. Jeorge Mishaela Celerio and Liam Trysten Comendador, Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management students at St. Anne College Lucena Inc. (SACLI), made up the team. Chef Geronimo Gavilan coached and managed them. The team beat nine teams of young culinary talents from across Asia in a 7-hour challenge with 4 categories: plated dessert, ice cream bonbons, chocolate cake and a chocolate-andsugar showpiece. Among their gold medal-winning creations was “Purple Heritage,” a modern interpretation of Filipino flavors featuring ube halaya, toasted rice ice cream, coconut and calamansi. Their showpiece, titled “Flavors Without Borders: A Journey Along the Silk Road,” featured a camel caravan symbolizing the historic exchange of cultures, flavors and traditions along the ancient trade route. The Philippine Consulate General in Guangzhou supported the delegation during the competition. Consul Stephanie Alexis Cruz attended the event and served as a guest judge for selected categories. After their victory, the team paid a courtesy call on Consul General Iric Cruz Arribas at the consulate on Sept 14. “This achievement demonstrates the

creativity, skill, and world-class talent of young Filipinos,” Arribas said. “We are especially proud to see young talents such as yourselves bring Philippine flavors and culture to an international audience and strengthen people-to-people ties through the culinary arts,” he said. The consulate congratulated the team for bringing honor to the country and showcasing Filipino culinary excellence in China.

THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) and the Metropolitan and City Judges Association of the Philippines (MetCJAP) reaffirmed their partnership on justice-related initiatives during a meeting at the FFCCCII head office in Binondo, Manila, on Sept. 9, 2026. MetCJAP chairman Judge Jeland Omer Pormentilla and executive vice chairman Judge Esmeralda David met with FFCCCII president Victor Lim, honorary president Dr. Cecilio Pedro and vice presidents William Gosiaco, Jose Go and Reynold Siy, among other leaders. Lim said the visit gave both organizations an opportunity to further strengthen their partnership. He also recognized the judges’ dedication to the administration of justice and their service to Filipino communities. Pormentilla thanked FFCCCII for its continued support of MetCJAP programs aimed at upholding justice for the private sector, the business community and the Filipino people. He also thanked the federation for sponsoring MetCJAP’s freemedication project for grassroots residents two months earlier. David presented details of the freemedication program and introduced the MetCJAP members who attended the meeting, including their positions

FFCCCII and the Metropolitan and City Judges Association of the Philippines reaffirm their partnership on justice initiatives at a Sept. 9 meeting in Binondo, Manila.

and assigned courts. FFCCCII has long supported MetCJAP and traditionally sponsors the association’s anniversary celebration and annual conference every September.

Both organizations also discussed various justice-related concerns and explored ways to promote a more effective and efficient judicial system. Julie Ann Lope

PH Hui An Association marks 106th anniversary Zheng Pei Ming becomes president of the Philippine Hui An Association at its 106th anniversary and donates P100,000 to the FFCCCII for education programs.

ZHENG Pei Ming was elected president of the Philippine Hui An Association at the group’s 106th anniversary celebration and the induction of its 107th to 108th officers at The Century Seafood Restaurant on Sept. 20, 2026. Zheng donated P100,000 to the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) to support educational programs for the

Filipino-Chinese community. Delegations from Quanzhou City and Hong Kong attended the event, along with members of the local Filipino-Chinese community. FFCCCII vice-president William Gosiaco and other FFCCCII officials also joined the celebration. Gosiaco said Hui An is a renowned hometown of overseas Chinese under Quanzhou City. Located along the coast of

southeastern Fujian Province, Hui An has a history spanning more than 1,000 years. Its residents and descendants live in more than 30 countries and regions worldwide. Gosiaco said Hui An’s large population, limited land and barren soil inspired its people to develop perseverance and courage. Many natives migrated to Southeast Asia and built successful

businesses from humble beginnings through hard work, integrity and determination. He said that hometown associations unite members, promote mutual assistance and preserve their shared heritage. He encouraged the Philippine Hui An Association to continue promoting unity and friendship, strengthen ties among fellow townspeople and serve the community. Michael Wong Ho

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

Filipino songwriter Dodjie Simon submitted his album ‘Best of All (The Music of Dodjie Simon)’ for Grammy consideration in four categories, including Best Global Music Album

Dodjie Simon’s latest project reconnects his decades-long songwriting career with a new generation of arrangements and performances

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

Tom Cruise takes on the role of a troubled industrialist caught between immense wealth and an environmental crisis.

Tom Cruise takes on climate change in controversial new film ‘Digger’ HOLLYWOOD A-lister Tom Cruise has taken on one of his riskiest roles in decades, tackling climate change and corporate greed in Digger, which drew sharply mixed reviews Tuesday. Backed by a reported $130 million budget, the dark comedy from Mexican auteur Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu hits screens Wednesday. Cruise is barely recognizable as a mining and oil magnate facing an environmental crisis. The character wrestles with his conscience and criticism of his wealth and business. “It is the culmination of all my skills,” Cruise, 64, told GQ. “It’s the most challenging character ever.” After its London premiere on Sept. 22, reactions were mixed, with critics divided over the melodramatic performances and Inarritu’s satire of billionaires and climate campaigning. Rotten Tomatoes gave the film a 53 percent rating. The BBC called it a “love-it-or-hate-it folly,” while Deadline praised Cruise’s performance as “a head-spinning performance for the ages.” Variety and The Hollywood Reporter were less impressed, calling it “a ponderous absurdist lecture” and “a shallow satire.” Cruise has spent much of this century in action films, including the Mission: Impossible series, Top Gun: Maverick and Jack Reacher. A Days of Thunder sequel is also due later this year. Film critic A.S. Hamrah said Cruise’s last roles that fully showcased his range came in the 1990s, including Magnolia and Eyes Wide Shut. Shawn Robbins, chief analyst at Fandango, said Cruise has always shown a willingness to move outside his comfort zone. “Younger audiences may associate him with being a risky stunt performer and actor, but he’s always prepared to go outside the box,” he told AFP. The film also raises questions about Cruise’s connection to its themes of climate change, consumer behavior, and politics. “I think that like Leonardo DiCaprio, I think he’s concerned about climate change and the environment,” Hamrah said. Robbins said Digger “could be an awards season player,” pointing to Cruise’s 10-minute monologue as one of its strongest moments. AFP

Filipino songwriter Dodjie Simon submits OPM album for 2027 Grammy consideration

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WARD-WINNING Filipino songwriter and tech executive Elzar “Dodjie” Simon has submitted his latest album, Best of All (The Music of Dodjie Simon), for consideration at the 69th Annual GRAMMY® Awards. Released Aug. 11, the seventrack OPM album features fourpart vocal arrangements and has been entered in four GRAMMY® categories. They include Best Global Music Album and Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical for Best of All, as well as Best Arrangement, Instruments and Vocals for “Ikaw Lamang” and Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Cappella for “Kulang Ang Paleta.” Simon produced the album with acclaimed choral conductor Joel Navarro, bringing together several Filipino music figures, including Moy Ortiz, artistic director of The CompanY, Nica Tupas, Bianca Lopez-Aguila and Joshua Cadeliña. Among the album’s highlights is “Kulang Ang Paleta,” featuring a melody by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, Tagalog lyrics by Simon, and a four-part a cappella arrangement by Navarro. The album also features a new rendition of Simon’s OPM classic “Ikaw Lamang,” with cellist Francisco Llorin and oboist

Japs Bautista. Recording engineer Martin Andrew Guevara handled the technical production, while Grammy-winning mastering engineer Jett Galindo, known for his work on Gaby Moreno’s X Mí (Vol. 1), handled mastering. Keyboardist Marvin Querido also contributed to the album. Simon has a long history in Philippine music, winning the 1988 KBP MusicFest Grand Prize, the 1997 Asia Song Festival Grand Prize in Hong Kong with Jaya and the 1999 Metropop Song Festival Grand Prize with Lani Misalucha. His songs include “Ikaw Lamang,” “Can Find No Reason” and “Kung Alam Mo Lang,” which have been recorded by artists including Lea Salonga, Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Sharon Cuneta and Sarah Geronimo. Beyond music, Simon has built a career in information technology, holding senior positions with international organizations, including P&O

Ports, Asian Terminals, Maher Terminals, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in the Philippines. He is currently a senior IT director at a research university in New York. “Participating in the GRAMMY® consideration process is a privilege that allows us to demonstrate how Philippine songwriting, choral arranging, and vocal performance hold a rightful place on the global recording stage,” Simon said. First-round Grammy voting is scheduled for Oct. 12 to 22, with nominations set to be announced Nov. 16. The 69th Annual Grammy Awards are scheduled for Feb. 7, 2027, in Los Angeles. One of the album’s standout tracks is ‘Kulang Ang Paleta,’ which features a melody composed by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab

‘Best of All (The Music of Dodjie Simon)’brings revisit Dodjie’s songwriting legacy through four-part vocal arrangements and collaborations with some of the country’s established music figures

Zsara Laxamana widens her lane beyond sexy films

VMX artist Zsara Laxamana is now preparing to introduce another side of herself as an artist

By Jasper Valdez SHOWBIZ newbie Zsara Laxamana is spending less time making sexy films and more time behind a microphone, whether as a host, performer with the VMX Babes or, soon, a recording artist. Her latest project, Masahe,

puts her in front of the camera in a different capacity. The VMX special, which started streaming on Sept. 22, has Laxamana hosting a look at different forms of sensual massage alongside Joko Rivera and Yasmin Alba. While the subject still keeps her close to the image she built through VMX, Laxamana said

Viva has been trying to move her toward other projects. “I’m not doing sexy films anymore. I only do specials like this,” she told reporters during the media conference for Masahe. “Viva is really trying to help me cross over.” The shift, however, does not mean Laxamana herself has turned her back on sexy roles. “I actually still want to do them. Boss V is the one who doesn’t want me to anymore. I would still do them if I could,” she said, adding that she remains open to whatever opportunities Viva gives her. Before joining VMX, she performed with the Mocha Girls, where she said hosting was already part of their regular shows. “I didn’t really have a hard time adjusting because when I started performing with Mocha Girls, I was already hosting shows almost every night,” she said. “The approach here is just different.” That experience has also carried over to the VMX Babes, where Laxamana gets to return to what she considers her first love: singing and dancing. “I’m very happy that Viva is giving me the opportunity to do that now, especially with the VMX Babes, where we can sing and dance,” she said. “We get to show

our talent, so I’m happy that I’m getting back to what I really wanted to do.” Laxamana said she has already signed with Viva Records and is waiting for her formal launch while work continues on a music video and new songs. She is also looking at more mainstream acting opportunities. Asked what genre she would want to explore, Laxamana immediately picked comedy, naming Michael V., Vice Ganda, Pokwang, Eugene Domingo, and Kim Molina among the performers she hopes to work with. For now, Masahe still allows her to play with the image audiences know her for. Although she serves mainly as host, Laxamana teased that viewers should expect something from her toward the end of the special. “There’s a surprise at the end. I think that’s what made it special,” she said. “Since I’m no longer doing sexy movies, Direk prepared a surprise here.” And while Viva may already be looking at what comes after her sexy-film phase, Laxamana admitted she would not have minded staying in it a little longer. “I still feel sexy,” she said. “It would be a waste not to show it while I still can.”

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Patrick Garcia interview reopens Jennylyn Mercado’s old wounds

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By Angelica Villanueva and Jasper Valdez

HE old breakup story between Jennylyn Mercado and Patrick Garcia has resurfaced nearly two decades later, after the former teen star publicly shared his side of their 2008 separation and his efforts to reconnect with their son, Alex Jazz.

Jennylyn’s talent agency, Aguila Entertainment, addressed the renewed controversy on Wednesday, Sept. 30, saying the actress has chosen not to revisit the issue publicly. “Our artist, Jennylyn Mercado, will not comment or grant any interviews regarding Patrick Garcia’s statements on Ogie Diaz’s YouTube channel,” the agency said. Aguila Entertainment acknowledged Patrick’s right to tell his story but said Jennylyn would rather remain silent to protect the privacy and peace of both families. “Everyone is entitled to share their story on whatever platform they choose. In this case, Jennylyn would rather not share her side of the story out of respect for the privacy and peace of mind of both her family and Patrick’s,” the agency added. The agency also appealed to the public to refrain from attacking Patrick and his family online. The statement came after Patrick spoke about his past relationship with Jennylyn in an interview with Ogie Diaz, describing it as the first time he had publicly shared his version of events in 18 years. “That’s my story. This is the story I’ve been holding for 18 years na hindi ko sinasabi,” Patrick said. He denied abandoning Jennylyn during her pregnancy with Alex Jazz, saying he wanted to be present but claimed Jennylyn no longer wanted him involved after their relationship deteriorated. “Hindi ko iniwanan si Jen,” he said. Patrick also said his absence during the pregnancy was not by choice. FILIPINO seafarers and their families gathered in Quezon City on Sept. 19 for GMA Pinoy TV’s first-ever Pinoys @ Sea: Seafarers’ Family Day 2026, an event focused on the challenges faced by families separated by work at sea. GMA Network First Vice President and Head of International Operations Joseph T. Francia welcomed the attendees alongside Home2US founder, president, and CEO Emrah Ozkan. “Where goes the family, so goes the nation. When families are strengthened, communities are transformed,” Francia said, describing the event as a way to recognize seafarers and their families and encourage shared learning and stronger connections. The gathering featured discussions on mental health, parenting, family relationships, and financial planning, with broadcast journalists Connie Sison and Susan Enriquez leading sessions on mental health and entrepreneurship. Former Undersecretary Art Valdez, expedition leader of the Balangay Voyages, also encouraged attendees to revive the seafaring pride associated with ancient Filipinos. One panel, Kahit Malayo, Malapit Pa Rin: Strengthening Parenting and Family Bonds Across Distance, examined how families can maintain relationships while a parent is working at sea.

Sparkle artist and singer-actor Ronnie Liang (left) and GMA Network first vice president and head of International Operations Joseph T. Francia grace the event

Another session, Sa Layag ng Kita: Smart Financial Planning for

Dennis Trillo (left) speaks out against online bashing and acknowledges that Patrick’s remarks brought Alex Jazz back into the conversation

Patrick Garcia has publicly revisited the circumstances surrounding their 2008 breakup and his relationship with their son, Alex Jazz

“I was never there for Jen during her pregnancy, not because I didn’t want to be there, but because she didn’t want me to be there.” He said he decided to speak after the controversy began affecting his daughter, Michelle. Patrick’s comments, however, prompted a strong response from Becky Aguila, Jennylyn’s manager, who said she was speaking not in her capacity as the actress’ manager but as her “second mom.” In a lengthy Facebook post, the seasoned talent manager questioned why Patrick chose to discuss the matter in an interview instead of reaching out privately. “Why did u have to resort to an

interview? Kahit wala na si Tita Lydia, andito pa naman ako,” Aguila wrote. She said she did not want to hurt Patrick or damage his image but expressed concern for Jennylyn and Alex Jazz, particularly over what she described as Patrick’s past shortcomings toward them. “Sa dami ng pagkukulang mo ke Jen lalo na kay Jazz, mas inintindi mo pa magpa-interview to protect your daughter from bashers at the expense of Jen and Jazz,” Aguila went on. She also claimed that there were other painful incidents involving Patrick that Jennylyn had chosen not to discuss publicly out of respect for him, their son, and his family.

GMA Pinoy TV’s Seafarers’ Family Day highlights the support systems families need while a loved one works at sea, from mental health and parenting to financial planning and long-term security

GMA Pinoy TV brings Filipino seafarers and their families together for its first Pinoys @ Sea: Seafarers’ Family Day

GMA Pinoy TV honors Filipino seafarers and their families Seafarers and Their Families, focused on practical financial planning and building long-term financial security. Mental health was also given a dedicated discussion through Okay Lang Magpahinga: Prioritizing Mental Health for Seafarers and Their Families, which tackled access to support systems for seafarers and their loved ones. The event also featured

performances from Sparkle artists Matt Lozano and Therese Malvar, who star in GMA Afternoon Prime sports series Kamao, as well as Ronnie Liang. Guests took part in activities and raffles, with prizes including GMA Affordabox units, gift certificates, and other giveaways. GMA Pinoy TV said the event was organized to recognize the sacrifices of Filipino seafarers while creating opportunities for families to connect, learn, and build stronger communities.

“There are a lot of things you did to hurt her, and never niya kwinento yun sa iba bilang respeto sa iyo at tatay ka ng anak ninyo at para sa pamilya mo rin na nananahimik na,” Aguila wrote. “Pero lahat yun naalala ko.” Aguila further disputed Patrick’s account, saying, “Pasensya na Patrick pero yung truth mo maraming kulang at dagdag.” She ended her statement by saying Patrick had revived an issue that had long been left in the past. “Nanahimik na nanay mo, binuhay mo ulit ang issue and this is all on you,” she wrote. Dennis Trillo, Jennylyn’s husband,

also addressed the renewed discussion on Instagram, saying he does not support online bashing while pointing out that Patrick’s remarks had brought Alex Jazz back into the conversation. “Hindi ako pabor sa bashing, pero salamat at naalala mo si Jazz dahil sa pag bash sa anak mo,” Trillo wrote. He ended his message with: “Spread Love not Hate.” Jennylyn has not directly responded to Patrick’s statements. Aguila Entertainment said she intends to keep it that way, leaving the nearly 18-year-old breakup story to remain in the past rather than becoming another public exchange between the former couple.

Pausing and healing inside a dome of calm By Nickie Wang THERE was no rush inside the dome. While Manila moved outside with its usual noise, deadlines, and distractions, visitors entering “pause.” were invited to do something that can feel strangely difficult in a busy city: stop. Conceived by IDr. Cecil Ravelas, Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID) national president and founder and principal of RED Interior Design, the sustainable, domeshaped refuge at De La Salle-College of Benilde (DLS-CSB) was designed as a space for breathing, resting, and reconnecting with oneself. The installation, however, was more personal to Ravelas than an exercise in design. “The last few years have been a rediscovery of my own personal healing journey, my inner work. And those I’ve invited here are the ones who’ve been intimately sharing with me the experience,” she said. The designer also wanted students to experience the space, with the larger ambition of encouraging more healing environments in schools and public spaces. “It’s important for us to share this space for the students. Our advocacy is for us to create safe and more healing spaces in all other schools and other public spaces,” she added. The intimate opening was deliberately sensory. Atma Prema Kids co-founder and creative director Lei Sta. Maria, a yoga teacher and Japanese alternative medicine reiki master, filled the space with the soothing sounds of a crystal sound bath. Sama Wellbeing founder Malou Araneta, a certified shamanic minister and former student of Ravelas, guided guests through meditative breathwork. Seasoned broadcast journalist Ces Oreña-Drilon, founder of artisanal

Filipino wellness and natural lifestyle brand Provenciana, brought another sense into the experience: scent. “Scent is so powerful,” Drilon said. “It’s actually a tool you can use to ground you, to let you, for a moment, forget what’s troubling you, and be in a moment of serenity to be able to begin your day. That’s how I got into the practice of pausing—being more connected to the moment and to yourself.” Perhaps fittingly, “pause.” also marked something of a homecoming for Ravelas. She earned her bachelor’s degree through the consortium program between DLS-CSB and the Philippine School of Interior Design, later pursuing further studies at Istituto Marangoni. From 1999 to 2005, she steered Benilde’s Interior Design Program and Office of Culture and Arts. Benilde president Br. Edmundo Fernandez FSC recalled another chapter in Ravelas’ relationship with the college. She had previously worked as a project manager who helped conceptualize the School of Design and Arts building, now known as the Design + Arts Campus. “Artists and designers generally tend to make works which reflect their interest, and ‘pause.’ reflects Cecil’s current interest in healing spaces,” Fernandez said. He also noted that while the installation was valuable for interior design students, its ideas extended beyond the discipline. “Although, if you look at it, it goes beyond interior design. Architectural na rin siya,” he said. Installed at the 12th-floor Gallery of the DLS-CSB Design + Arts Campus, ‘pause.’ was presented in partnership with the Benilde Center for Campus Exhibitions (CCX) and Benilde WellBeing Center (BWC).

The installation aims to encourage healing environments in schools and public spaces

LIFE

C4 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer Pickleball pros Sarah Jane Lim (left) and Leander Lazaro show off their medals at Tomaz Colosseum

Beyond the racket game Filipino top pickleball players find purpose in getting better

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By Angelica Villanueva

EANDER Lazaro and Sarah Jane Lim saw pickleball as more than simply a new racket sport. It gave two former tennis players a chance to rethink competition, health, and even the way they saw themselves as athletes.

Both had spent years in tennis before discovering pickleball as adults. Lazaro began playing in 2021, after a business partner introduced him to the sport while exploring pickleball products. Lim followed in 2023 after a friend invited her to an introductory session. Neither expected the sport to become a major part of their lives. Lazaro, a former collegiate tennis player at National University, recalled a time when pickleball was still finding its footing in the Philippines. Players improvised courts, traveled long distances to find games, and brought portable nets to parking lots. Lim had a different starting point. After years of competitive tennis, she had no plans to return to another racket sport. But after her first session, she found herself drawn to the game. The transition from tennis was not difficult at first. Becoming good at pickleball, however, required them to unlearn some habits. “It wasn’t hard to learn the sport. But to get better at it is different,” Lazaro said, pointing to pickleball’s emphasis on strategy and its softer exchanges compared with tennis. Their bigger adjustment came

away from the court. Both athletes spoke openly about the pressure they experienced as young tennis players, when performance could become closely tied to identity. Lim described tennis as a sport she followed from childhood rather than one she consciously chose. “As an adult, when I discovered pickleball, I took it from a whole different perspective,” Lim said. “I’m going to protect my joy in playing pickleball.” Winning is no longer the sole measure of her progress. She wants young athletes to understand they are more than their results. “Your wins and your losses don’t define who you are,” she said. “If you’re able to detach your identity from your performance, then you’re free to actually perform better.” Lazaro reached a similar realization after dealing with

PEOPLE Former competitive tennis player Sarah Jane Lim now emphasizes strategic, softer exchanges while keeping her athletic identity detached from win-loss results

Former collegiate tennis athlete Leander Lazaro credits the local pickleball community with helping him move past junior-level performance anxiety

Bringing new brightening technology to PH By Angelica Villanueva FOR skincare users looking to keep dark spots and uneven skin tone in check, Hada Labo is putting more science behind its brightening routine. The Japanese skincare brand has introduced its reformulated Premium Whitening Line in the Philippines, built around WhiTEQ™, a patented ingredient technology developed by Mentholatum Asia Pacific to improve the stability and delivery of several brightening ingredients. Dr. Naelong Wang, general manager of research and development at Mentholatum Asia Pacific, said the technology was developed over five to six years and is now incorporated into the reformulated Hada Labo range. Wang explained that WhiTEQ™ encapsulates key ingredients to help protect them from oxidation while allowing them to be delivered more gradually into the skin. The formulation combines alpha arbutin, niacinamide, vitamin C, vitamin A, and Centella asiatica extract. Wang said the combination was developed to address different stages involved in melanin formation while helping reduce the irritation that can come with concentrated active ingredients. “High concentration is good for effectiveness, but it’s bad because it irritates,” Wang said

during the product launch. He explained that encapsulation allows the ingredients to be delivered gradually while helping maintain their stability. The company presented laboratory testing comparing encapsulated and non-encapsulated ingredients. Wang said the tests showed 194 percent higher skin deposition for alpha arbutin and 185 percent higher deposition for niacinamide when encapsulated using the technology. The company also reported testing on tyrosinase activity, an enzyme involved in melanin production. According to Wang, formulations containing WhiTEQ™ reduced tyrosinase activity in the tests. Hydration remains part of the formulation, with hyaluronic acid included in the range. Hada Labo said its testing showed improved penetration and moisture retention with the new formulation. The upgraded collection consists of four products: Premium Whitening Creamy Wash, Premium Whitening Lotion, Premium Whitening Water Gel, and Premium Whitening Water Cream. The Premium Whitening Lotion is available in 30-milliliter and 170-milliliter sizes, priced at P220 and P740, respectively. The Creamy Wash retails for P420, while the Water Gel and Water Cream are priced at P920 each. The reformulated products are available at selected Watsons branches nationwide, Mitsukoshi Mall, and Hada Labo’s official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. The new line gives Hada Labo’s existing whitening range a formulation update, placing its latest ingredient technology at the center of the brand’s approach to brightening and hydration.

Dr. Naelong Wang discusses about WhiTeQ, the new ingredient blend in the Premium Whitening Line

Sarah Jane Lim (left) and Leander Lazaro are the newest ambassadors for Herbalife’s Better Everyday campaign, underscoring that athletic success depends on consistent daily recovery, nutrition, and hydration

performance anxiety as a junior tennis player. He credits the pickleball community, including people such as Lim, with helping him process those experiences differently. Their outlook now extends to how they want the Philippine pickleball scene to develop. Rather than keeping top players apart in pursuit of individual wins, they believe stronger athletes need to train and compete together. “The goal is not to beat this person or not to be the number one,” Lim said. “It’s to have a mindset that we’re all trying to get better here.” Their partnership with Herbalife’s Better Everyday campaign also reflects their approach to training and daily life. Both athletes described professional sport as a lifestyle requiring consistent attention to training, recovery, sleep, hydration and nutrition, rather than something achieved only on competition days. Nutrition has become especially important to Lim during long tournament days and frequent travel. She uses Herbalife’s nutritional shake when she needs a lighter option between matches, while both athletes stressed the importance of finding an approach suited to individual needs. They also see nutrition and fitness as part of a larger responsibility, especially as more young Filipinos enter the sport. “We’re looking for that next gen of pro-athletes we can train that will replace us,” Lazaro said. “We’re not scared to be overthrown.” Two athletes who once defined themselves through tennis now see getting better as more than improving their game. It means helping create a healthier, more collaborative path for the players who come next.

Watson highlights the expanding role of pharmacy professionals in guiding proactive, preventive healthcare

Preventive health care puts pharmacists in the spotlight AS Watson, the parent company of Watsons Philippines, is highlighting the growing role of pharmacists in preventive health care as consumers take a more proactive approach to managing their health. The company marked World Pharmacists Day by recognizing more than 3,300 pharmacists and nearly 10,000 health professionals across its network of more than 1,770 pharmacies worldwide. AS Watson reported 10 percent growth in global health sales over the past year, which it attributed to increasing consumer interest in preventive health care and self-care. “As health care continues to evolve from treatment to prevention, AS Watson is supporting customers with trusted professional advice and personalized and innovative O+O (Offline plus Online) health care solutions,” said Peter Macnab, international commercial director of AS Watson. The company also released findings from its Global Health Research, conducted by WISE, its customer experience insights division, among more than 11,000 respondents across 10 markets in Europe and Asia. The survey found that health concerns were the main driver of health product purchases, cited by 43% of respondents. Professional advice from health care experts followed at 41 percent,

while recommendations from family and friends accounted for 32 percent. Consumers are also combining online and offline sources when researching health products. Online research was cited by 82 percent of respondents, followed by consultations with health professionals at 49 percent and in-store product discovery at 44 percent. When making purchasing decisions, 56 percent cited price and promotions, 48 percent brand trust, and 45 percent product benefits. In the Philippines, Watsons is strengthening the role of its pharmacists through continuing education and specialized training. Programs include the Diabetes Educator Training Program with Diabetes Philippines and the Respiratory Care Educator Program with the Philippine College of Chest Physicians and the Philippine Pharmacists Association. The programs aim to equip pharmacists with knowledge to help customers better understand their health, make informed decisions, and take more proactive steps in managing their well-being. “The future of health care is increasingly preventive, personalized, and accessible,” Macnab said. “By bringing together trusted expertise, personalized care, and O+O innovation, AS Watson is building a health care ecosystem that helps people take charge of their health with confidence.”