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TIM HO WAN BUYS OUT N. AMERICAN PARTNER

DOJ SET TO FILE EXTRADITION PETITION VS. QUIBOLOY

NCAP TO RESUME IN SIX NCR CITIES ON OCT. 5

BUSINESS / B2

NEWS / A4

NEWS / A3

NBI: Gracioso showed no sign of deception in polygraph test By Gwyneth Nolasco and Katrina Manubay NATIONAL Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag said a lie detector test showed no sign of

deceit in the September 14 sworn affidavit of former patrolman Rodulfo Gracioso Jr. detailing cash deliveries to Vice President Sara Duterte and other members of her family. Matibag said the NBI found that Next page

VOL. XL • NO. 230 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 •FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026 •

Water flow cut; Palace girds for ‘super’ El Niño Conserve, store ‘reasonable amounts’ of water, nation told

El Niño rewrites menu in world's top restaurants PLAYA del Carmen, Mexico—A record-breaking El Nño will likely force the world's top chefs to rethink their menus ahead of droughts, floods and heatwaves upending global food systems. Ants are disappearing from the table in Brazil, one Danish chef is

By Charles Dantes, Ram Superable, Rex Espiritu, and Maricel V. Cruz

ATER authorities have reduced Metro Manila’s water allocation as the government steps up preparations for a potentially stronger El Niño, Malacañang said Thursday, warning the public against panic-buying and hoarding bottled water. The weather phenomenon has impacted 356,800 individuals, or 189,994 families, across 3,463 barangays nationwide, data from the Department of Social Welfare and Development showed. The agency also identified Ilocos Norte, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Oriental Mindoro, Catanduanes, Albay, Cebu, and Leyte as the most severely affected provinces. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the government could not guarantee that Metro Manila would avoid severe water shortages similar to the 2019 water crisis but said preparations were already underway.

SEEING RED. University of the Philippines Prof. Alan Racoma points to the projected position of El Niño at the Project NOAH office in UP Diliman, Quezon City on Thursday, October 1, 2026. Racoma warns of a possible water shortage due to the weather phenomenon. Manny Palmero

Banks, insurance firms ordered to show papers in impeach trial By Maricel V. Cruz, Joel E. Zurbano and Katrina Manubay

SECURITY PARTNERS. Defense chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr. receives US National Security Council Senior Director for Asia Ivan Kanapathy during a courtesy call at the Department of National Defense in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Thursday, October 1, 2026. DND Facebook page

‘TBS groomers will be arrested’ By Vince Lopez INTERIOR Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Thursday said authorities will pursue the arrest of members of True Brown Style (TBS) who are proven to be involved in grooming minors for criminal activities despite the group’s reported charitable activities. During an interview in Pasay City,

Remulla said good deeds do not excuse alleged criminal acts, noting that TBS has been linked to convenience store robberies and other incidents of violence. The Interior secretary also vowed to hold accountable those allegedly involved in recruiting and grooming minors for criminal activities, stressing that “there must be justice” and that the situation cannot continue. Next page

THE Senate Impeachment Court on Thursday granted the House prosecution’s request to subpoena representatives of seven banks and seven insurance and financial companies as prosecutors prepare to present financial records in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. The court also moved the appearance of Anti-Money Laundering Council Executive Director Ronel Buenaventura to Monday after the defense sought more time to study documents concerning the bank records

of Duterte and her husband, lawyer Manases Carpio. The seven banks are Land Bank of the Philippines, Asia United Bank, Philippine Savings Bank, Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co., Bank of the Philippine Islands, Philippine National Bank, and BDO Unibank. The prosecution will also call representatives of Prudential Life, Allianz, Manufacturers Life, FWD Life, BPI-AIA Life, BDO Securities, and BDO Life. Representatives are scheduled to be presented Tuesday, Oct. 6, following the prosecution’s presentation of a Bureau of Internal Revenue witness on Monday. Next page

Eala settles for bronze, two other female athletes deliver silver wins By Riera U. Mallari NAGOYA (Powered by PLDT Home)—It was a day of contrasting emotions for Team Philippines on Thursday at the 20th Asian Games. Alexandra Eala’s bid for the gold medal, and an outright qualifica-

tion place for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, ended in heartbreaking fashion, while Amaya Amparo Cojuangco and Juliana Mykhail Candelaria delivered historic silvermedal performances to brighten the Philippine campaign. Next page

DISAPPOINTED, BUT NO REGRETS.

Alexandra Eala loses to China’s Wang Xiyu in Nagoya, Japan. While settling for a bronze medal, Eala says she has no regrets competing for the country in the Asian Games. POC Media

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026

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Water... From A1

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed government agencies to coordinate measures covering water supply, agriculture, irrigation and social protection as the country braces for the possible intensification of the weather phenomenon. The National Water Resources Board has reduced Metro Manila’s water allocation from 52-53 cubic meters per second to 44 cubic meters per second beginning October amid concerns over the possible impact of the super El Niño. Castro said several agencies are coordinating with the Climate Change Commission to prepare for the expected effects of El Niño, which could intensify into a “very strong” El Niño between September and December 2026 and persist through the first half of 2027.

El Niño... From A1

opting for cocoa-free chocolate and Japan is serving up warm-water fish, culinary stars disclosed at the Apapaxoa gastronomic festival on Mexico's Caribbean coast. United Nations experts have predicted an exceptionally strong cycle of the El Niño climate phenomenon, which causes global changes in winds and rainfall as well as erratic weather conditions. The cream of the culinary crop, looking ahead to unpredictable ingredient availability, quality and prices, are rearranging their shelves accordingly. But for these acclaimed chefs, extreme weather events and their habit of turning the kitchen upside down

Banks,... From A1

The prosecution earlier said it was prepared to establish subpoenaed bank records “piece by piece, bank by bank” after the impeachment court rejected its bid to compel Duterte to respond to a Request for Admission covering the records. Buenaventura was supposed to testify Thursday, the first day of the trial’s two-week, full-day proceedings. Earlier, House prosecutor Rep. Jose Manuel “Chel” Diokno urged the court to proceed with the direct examination of Buenaventura, arguing that the defense had access to the subpoenaed AMLC records since September 2 and had enough time to review the documents before the witness took the stand. Trillanes withdraws as witness Meanwhile, the House prosecution team announced that former senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV would no longer testify as a prosecution witness. Lead House prosecutor and Batangas 2nd District Rep. Gerville Luistro conveyed the decision during the 32nd day of the proceedings and apologized to the impeachment court for the late notice. Trillanes later clarified that he had asked the House prosecution panel to withdraw his name as a witness. “Earlier in the day, I requested the House prosecution under Chair Jinky Luistro to formally withdraw my name as a witness for the prosecution. This way, the prosecution panel would be relieved from the pressure it is going

Eala... From A1

Eala, the top seed and world No. 18, was unable to protect an early advantage against China’s Wang Xiyu, falling 6-3, 3-6, 2-6 in a grueling twohour, 34-minute semifinal at the Nagoya City Higashiyama Park Tennis Center. The 21-year-old Filipina stormed to a 5-0 lead and took the opening set, but Wang, ranked No. 85 in the world, gradually turned the match around with increasingly aggressive play. Eala fought to stay within striking distance in the deciding set, breaking Wang to cut the deficit to 2-4, but the Chinese fourth seed regained control and closed out the upset. “A lot of tough moments for me. I think in the end she (Wang) played better. I have to sit and think about it,” Eala said. The defeat matched Eala’s same finish in Hangzhou in 2023. More importantly, the loss ended her pursuit of the gold that would have

"As we said, we are ready for that. Whatever happens, we still need to prepare, however intense it is, that is what we must prepare for," Castro said. “I can't say whether we won't experience extreme drought. All we really need is to prepare and that is what the government is doing,” she added. Castro said households should conserve and store reasonable amounts of water when appropriate but should follow government guidance rather than panic-buying. Malacañang also said infrastructure spending must continue despite potential disruptions from the projected El Niño, as government expenditure remains important to economic activity. Castro said the Department of Budget and Management recognizes the need to sustain government spending, particularly on infrastructure. “I raised this issue directly with the DBM, and the DBM's response is

that they themselves will answer it,” the Palace spokesperson said. The DSWD has already released more than P714 million in humanitarian assistance to communities affected by the severe dry spell brought by El Niño. DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao of the Disaster Response Management Group said the assistance included 43,504 family food packs, 3,660 water containers, 4,967 other food items and 2,300 non-food items. Meanwhile, Senator Jinggoy Estrada has filed Senate Resolution No. 656 seeking an immediate investigation into the government’s readiness for a projected “supersized” El Niño that could last until 2027. The resolution calls on the Senate to designate an appropriate committee to assess government readiness and exercise oversight over disaster mitigation measures. The Climate Change Commission,

for its part, has called for stronger predictive governance as the country prepares for the possible intensification of the ongoing Strong El Niño. CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje emphasized the need to use climate forecasts and risk information to anticipate impacts and guide timely decisions. Predictive governance, he said, requires coordinated action among national government agencies, local government units (LGUs), communities, the private sector, and other stakeholders, with climate information translated into decisions relevant to specific sectors and localities. “Predictive governance means using the climate information available to us today to anticipate the risks we may face tomorrow. As we prepare for the potential intensification of El Niño, we must translate forecasts into timely decisions and concrete actions that protect our communities, livelihoods,

and essential resources,” Borje said. The CCC called for stronger integration of climate projections, risk assessments, and scenario-based planning into local development planning, disaster risk reduction and management, and sectoral adaptation measures. These may include water conservation and supply contingency planning, climate-informed agricultural decisions, early warning dissemination, and health preparedness, based on projected risks and local conditions. Borje said preparedness should begin before the full impacts of prolonged dry conditions are felt, allowing institutions to identify vulnerabilities and prepare resources and interventions in advance. “We should not wait for impacts to fully materialize before taking action. Forecasts and risk assessments can help us determine where vulnerabilities may emerge, what resources may be needed, and what measures can be put in place early,” he said.

are nothing new. "In the last three years, I've been creating an annual menu that I end up adjusting many times, almost weekly, because certain products aren't available," Brazilian chef Alex Atala said. "Ants, for example, this year are only available for customers who specifically ask to try them," said Atala, whose Sao Paulo restaurant D.O.M. plucks ingredients from the Amazonian wilderness to reinterpret Indigenous traditions. El Niño can also massively disrupt transportation, said Atala. Flooded roads or wildfires "delay a product that should be fresh, and by the time it arrives, it's no longer in good condition," he said. The renowned Brazilian chef also emphasized the "cultural loss" provoked by El Niño, referring to the

disappearance of tradition along with the unavailable ingredient. The climate crisis has wreaked havoc on the Mediterranean, says Spain's Quique Dacosta, whose restaurant in the port city of Denia sits near Valencia, which was pummeled by torrential rain in 2024. Almost 250 people died, while vineyards, orange groves and plots used to grow Albufera rice, an essential paella ingredient, were decimated. An event of such intensity "directly attacks the raw materials that are the natural foundation on which we build our cuisine," Dacosta told AFP. Footfall also takes a hit, he said, noting that a stormy season has once again descended and fearful customers are canceling their reservations. "It's going to rain a lot and people

just don't come anymore – imagine how vulnerable our businesses are," he said. While El Niño ramps up weather conditions in some parts, it produces a vacuum in others. "This is the first year without hurricanes" in the Mexican Caribbean, said chef Roberto Solis. While Hurricane Polo hurtles around the Pacific, there isn't a trace of the usual cyclones off Mexico's opposite coast, near Solis's native Yucatan. "Hurricanes carry moisture and move ocean currents and plankton," he said, noting the consequences for seafood dishes at his restaurant Huniik, where he reimagines Mayan specialties. Danish chef Rasmus Munk has a reputation for inventiveness and is calling on his peers to think about fu-

ture food resilience. His Copenhagen restaurant Alchemist is experimenting with chocolate alternatives because "the chocolate market is also under pressure," he said. "The non-chocolate we're making now, we make it from BSG, which is the brewer's spent grains," he added. The fibrous leftover from beer production also serves as a "local alternative," Munk said. Japanese cooks are working with a brand-new selection of seafood, since El Niño has altered ocean migratory routes. "In Japan it's not a problem, there's always product available," said Yusuke Takada, who combines Japanese ingredients with French cooking techniques in La Cime, Osaka. But concern is the prevailing mood among the culinary greats gathered in Mexico. AFP

through,” the ex-senator said in a statement posted on his Facebook account. Trillanes said that he would instead have a press briefing on Friday. The decision not to field Trillanes as a witness is a “caution for the best,” House private prosecutor Lorna Kapunan said. “For me, I’m all for fight, fight, fight. [I] take no prisoners. That’s my attitude. But I guess there is wisdom in being cautious because the evidence is strong enough,” Kapunan added. VP camp: Trillanes drop not an issue Duterte’s camp said the decision to drop Trillanes was not an issue, adding that it respected the prosecution’s prerogative to decide which witnesses to present in the trial. Duterte’s defense spokesperson, Atty. Michael Poa, said they did not expect Trillanes to be removed entirely from the witness list. “We didn't expect it, definitely. But, I mean, the order can be changed, others can go first, former Senator Trillanes can be arrested. So, we were at least expecting that. But expecting them to totally drop, we didn't expect it,” he said. Poa also said the defense did not consider the former senator’s removal from the witness list a relief, saying it had already prepared for the witnesses initially identified by the prosecution. Senator-judge Raffy Tulfo also urged prosecutors to be more discerning in selecting witnesses, saying the panel had previously committed a lapse in judgment in choosing whom to present before the impeachment court.

‘TBS...

NBI:...

“I will really arrest them, all those who groom children to be criminals. I will really arrest them. This cannot go on. How can it be that now that we know who they are and they’ve been called out, they’ll just say, ‘No, we are actually good people?’” said Remulla. “Life doesn’t work that way. There must be justice, there must be truth. We cannot reconcile without justice. We will prioritize that,” he added. He also said authorities are compiling and finalizing a list of all TBS recruiters accused of encouraging minors to engage in illegal activities. Remulla said once the list is completed, he will make it public as a way of calling out and warning the group to refrain from radicalizing minors and encouraging them to commit robberies and other illegal activities as part of initiation rites. “We have the list. We know who they are, but we are compiling the entire country, so once we do, we will make public who they are. We will call them out,” Remulla said. The group was reported to have denied engaging in violent activities and said it conducts community activities. But Remulla said he would not accept the group’s explanation, saying authorities have information about its activities. “That’s their version of the truth, but we have our mission. We know what they are doing. Those cosmetic attempts [at community activities] don’t hide the truth that they are really behind a lot of what is going on

involving the youth,” Remulla said. “We appreciate what they are doing, but it’s not stopping us from getting them,” he added. The group was also reported to be calling for dialogue as some of its members are already afraid. Remulla said he is open to dialogue, but “a dialogue must come with a commitment to stopping their nefarious activities.” For his part, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said an intelligence-driven crackdown has been activated to dismantle the group and prevent it from recruiting and influencing children to engage in illegal activities. “We must detect recruitment early, coordinate with schools and local authorities, and take lawful action before these groups become deeply rooted in our communities,” Nartatez said. The PNP and the DILG appealed to parents to check and monitor their children’s mobile phones to find out who they are communicating with. The DILG said TBS, which originated in California and reached the Philippines about 25 years ago, has established a presence in all local government units in Metro Manila and 78 of the country’s 83 provinces. Remulla said the group has evolved from a small group into a criminal syndicate, with some chapters concentrated in urban centers. 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. Its recruitment of minors has drawn particular attention as authorities investigate recent school violence and shootings involving young people.

earned her a quota place for the Los Angeles Olympics. Eala had chosen to skip the mandatory WTA 1000 China Open to represent the Philippines in Nagoya. Still, she said she had no regrets about putting national duty ahead of her professional commitments. “It meant a lot to me to be here. At the end of the day, I gave my all. I prepped the best I could and I fought the best I could fight. I was happy to have this experience.” The disappointment was compounded by Eala’s failure to duplicate her two-medal haul from Hangzhou after she and Shaira Rivera were eliminated in the women’s doubles second round Wednesday. Eala and Rivera lost to China’s Jiang Xinyu and Yang Zhaoxuan, while Rivera and Francis Casey Alcantara also bowed out in the mixed doubles. While Eala’s campaign ended in frustration, Cojuangco produced one of the day’s biggest breakthroughs for the Philippines. The 40-year-old archer fought back from a qualification ranking of around

28th to reach the women’s individual compound final, where she narrowly lost to Indonesia’s Nurisa Dian Ashrifah, 139-137, at the Okazaki Chuo Sogo Park Multipurpose Square. “Very lucky. I thank the Lord,” Cojuangco said. “I think it's like destiny because I really didn't qualify well. Like I was around 28, so I came from behind and every match was really a fight.” The silver was the Philippines’ first Asian Games medal in the women’s individual compound event in 12 years and its first appearance in an Asiad archery final. “I'm sad. I'm sad that I lost, but also grateful that I still have a silver medal,” she said. Cojuangco came within two points of the gold in a tightly fought final played in difficult, windy conditions. The two archers were level at 28-all after the opening end before Ashrifah gradually pulled away. Her performance was all the more remarkable considering she had battled a shoulder injury several months before the Games.

“I had a shoulder injury a few months ago,” Cojuangco said. “Shooting-wise, it was also erratic.” In taekwondo, 18-year-old Candelaria also made an immediate impact in her Asian Games debut, claiming silver in the women’s individual poomsae at the Toyohashi Gymnasium. Candelaria posted 9.200 in recognized poomsae and 9.060 in freestyle for an average of 9.1300, briefly taking the lead before South Korea’s Jung Haeun produced a 9.3100 to take the gold. Thailand’s Thitaree Kaewolanwasu and Japan’s Yuiko Niwa settled for bronze. The Philippines also added a bronze through Jeus Gabriel Derick Yape in the men’s individual poomsae. Yape scored 9.0900 to finish third behind Thailand’s Navin Pinthasute (9.2800) and South Korea’s Kyusung Yun (9.3800). The Philippines remained with three golds, two from Carlos Yulo in men’s floor exercise and vault, and one from pole vault star Ernest John Obiena.

From A1

Gracioso showed “no specific physiological reactions indicative of deception to the relevant questions” during the examination conducted on Wednesday, September 30. The NBI’s finding was based on its evaluation of Gracioso’s physiological responses during the polygraph examination. Matibag earlier confirmed that the Vice President, Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte, former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, and his wife, Rowena Velasco, have been invited to appear before the NBI on October 5, 2026. Meanwhile, the Vice President’s former information officer submitted travel records to the NBI to dispute allegations that he received cash on her behalf, saying the documents show he was overseas at the time of several purported deliveries. In an exclusive report by Bilyonaryo News Channel, Jeffrey Tupas’s sworn statement denied allegations made by Gracioso, a former security aide of Velasco. Tupas said the statements and accusations made by Gracioso were false and could be disproved by his records. “I was not in the Philippines, so it was impossible for the scenes and transactions where he claimed I was present to have actually taken place,” Tupas said in his affidavit dated Sept. 30. Tupas presented documents showing he flew to South Korea on April 18, 2019, and returned to the Philippines on April 22. He also showed records indicating that he was in Japan from Sept. 19 to 22, 2019, contrary to Gracioso’s claim that he was at the Diamond Hotel on the night of Sept. 21. In an exclusive interview with BNC, Duterte spokesperson Atty. Paolo Panelo questioned Gracioso’s claims, saying the accuser appeared to be giving dates that did not match Tupas’s whereabouts. On Wednesday, the Palace urged Velasco to return to the Philippines and face the NBI’s probe into allegations linking him to purported multimillion-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 residence. “Whether he was afraid or simply went on vacation, we cannot say,” Castro said.

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Petitioners eye MR on SC threshold rule By Pot Chavez and Charles Dantes

HE petitioners are considering filing a motion for reconsideration before the Supreme Court (SC) after the High Court dismissed their petition challenging the Senate impeachment court’s interpretation of the twothirds voting requirement to convict Vice President Sara Duterte.

INVISIBLE HAZE. Metro Manila records ‘very unhealthy’ air quality due to dangerous spikes in fine particulate matter (PM2.5), prompting the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to advise vulnerable groups to stay indoors, the public to wear N95 masks, and employers to protect exposed workers. The haze is seen in the Reclamation area in Pasay City. Lino Santos

IN BRIEF High court dismisses plea on Senate leader PBBM returning Mile-Long property PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has returned the administration and management of the 22,924-square-meter Mile-Long property in Makati City to the Privatization and Management Office (PMO) to facilitate its sale and maximize its value. Under Administrative Order No. 50, signed Sept. 30, Marcos reverted the property to the PMO from the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), which had managed it under Administrative Order No. 21 issued in 2020. The property, registered under the National Government, is located in the Makati central business district. The order aims to optimize government assets, expand fiscal space, and support priority development programs. The Department of Finance recommended the transfer as part of efforts to maximize public asset utilization and generate resources for government priorities. Charles Dantes

By Pot Chavez THE Supreme Court (SC), in an en banc session dated August 26, 2026, dismissed a petition challenging the validity of the Senate session held on June 3, 2026, which installed the leadership of Senate President Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian. Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan disclosed the development in a social media post on Thursday, October 1, 2026, with an attached copy of the resolution that rejected the petition for certiorari filed by lawyers Valeriano Loon and Zigfred Diaz. The petition questioned the actions taken by 12 senators who collectively moved to oust then Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, paving the way for the election of a new set of officers to resume the order of business at the upper chamber. “The Court resolved to dismiss the petition for

certiorari for failure to show sufficiently that the respondents committed grave abuse of discretion in holding session on June 3, 2026, which, on the contrary, appears to be in accord with the facts and applicable law and jurisprudence,” the SC said. Gatchalian was elected both as Senate President Pro Tempore and acting Senate President at the time, with Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri returning as Majority Floor Leader. The leadership changed after Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero left the Cayetano bloc. Also named as respondents in the petition, apart from Gatchalian, Pangilinan, Zubiri, and Escudero, were other senators present during the session, namely Tito Sotto, Ping Lacson, Risa Hontiveros, JV Ejercito, Erwin Tulfo, Raffy Tulfo, Lito Lapid, and Bam Aquino, as well as Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. and Sergeant-atArms Alfred Sotto Corpus.

NCAP to be reimplemented in six NCR cities starting Oct. 5

Consul: Coordination on son of Mabasa PHILIPPINE Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez confirmed that the Philippine consul general in Los Angeles is coordinating with U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials regarding the detention of the son of slain journalist Percival “Percy Lapid” Mabasa. In a text message to Manila Standard on Wednesday night, Romualdez said Los Angeles Consul General Adelio Cruz would meet with DHS officials for coordination. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement website lists Mark Louis Santiago Mabasa as detained at the Adelanto ICE Processing Center in California but provides no details on why he was detained. In a GMA News report, Mark’s uncle, journalist Roy Mabasa, said his nephew had been arrested by U.S. immigration authorities. He confirmed that the Mabasa family is currently seeking political asylum in the United States. Percy Lapid was shot by armed men near his home in Las Piñas City on Oct. 3, 2022. Katrina Manubay

BOC: Derek Ramsay not off the hook ACTOR Derek Ramsay is not yet totally off the hook in the controversy surrounding the Porsche 918 Spyder registered to him and seized by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for various violations. Speaking at the Manila City Hall Reporters’ Association (MACHRA) monthly “Balitaan” forum at Harbor View Restaurant in Manila, BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said Ramsay had sought an audience with him and that they would meet soon to give the actor a chance to air his side. Nepomuceno said Ramsay may be considered a buyer in good faith, but could still be implicated if the importer identifies him in the case. Nepomuceno said the car would not be returned to Ramsay, citing initial findings of incorrect payments, documents, and certificate of payment. He said the investigation is continuing to determine those responsible for its illegal entry. He said Ramsay is not the importer and that the vehicle passed through several owners before reaching the actor. Nepomuceno said the BOC is also determining who facilitated the vehicle’s entry, including those from the government and private sector. Itchie G. Cabayan

Yesterday, the Court, sitting En Banc, dismissed the petitions filed by former Executive Secretary Victor Rodriguez, lawyer Ernesto B. Francisco Jr., and Berteni Cataluña Causing on procedural grounds, including lack of standing and prematurity. In an interview with Manila Standard on Thursday, Francisco Jr. said he might file a motion for reconsideration, adding that there is still a possibility that the SC will change its unanimous decision. “It is still possible, especially if the circumstances have changed, like there is imminent application of the Sept. 23 ruling of the Senate Impeachment Court,” he said. Francisco Jr., the petitioner in the landmark case Francisco v. House of Representatives, explained that based on past decisions of the SC, it has treated with liberality the standing of petitioners who filed suits as citizens, taxpayers, or members of the Bar. Meanwhile, he opined that the outcome of the recent ruling would have been different if the Vice President had been the one who filed the petition, saying she is “the respondent in the impeachment trial and the one likely to be affected most by the Sept. 23 ruling.” In a separate interview with GMA News, Rodriguez said he is also considering filing a motion for reconsideration of his petition questioning the authority of the impeachment court to set the specific number for the voting threshold for conviction in impeachment. “We are considering the filing of a motion for reconsideration, and we are given 15 days from receipt of the resolution. As of today, while this interview is ongoing, we have yet to get a copy of the resolution,” he said. For his part, Causing announced in a Facebook Live that he will also file a motion for reconsideration within 15 days of receiving the official copy of the SC resolution. Causing said he had already announced that he would file a motion for reconsideration and would address whether he has the legal standing to file the petition.

By Maryl De Mesa

‘SANLAKAS.’ The Philippine Coast Guard, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Philippine National Police conduct the three-day Inter-Agency Exercise (IAX) Sanlakas 02-2026 at the Naval Reserve Center in Intramuros, Manila, simulating a devastating earthquake along the West Valley Fault in preparation for the ‘Big One.’ The exercise runs from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2. Norman Cruz

STARTING October 5, the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) will be reimplemented in several Metro Manila cities to maintain safety and discipline. The policy is enforced by the Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023, which provides general guidelines for participating local governments and motorists. Included in the guidelines are standardized fines across the metro. Using CCTVs and cameras, footage of violations will be reviewed before a traffic violation alert is sent to the violator. Motorists can view, pay, and appeal violations through the respective portals of the LGUs. The participating local governments are Manila, Muntinlupa, Parañaque, Quezon City, San Juan, and Valenzuela.

CBCP joins efforts for Anti-Political Dynasty Act via signature campaign By Vito Barcelo THE Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) joined an online signature campaign seeking support for a proposed Anti-Political Dynasty Act, saying public office must remain a trust of the people. Bishop Elias Ayuban Jr. of Cubao said the “Dapat Isa Lang” campaign is not an attack on any politician, family, or political party. He said it seeks to address the concentration of political power. “Public office must never become a family inheritance. It is a public trust entrusted to the people,” Ayuban said. The campaign allows qualified voters to review the proposed bill and submit their signatures and required documents online.

The measure would bar relatives within the fourth civil degree from simultaneously or successively seeking or holding elective public office. The campaign follows a Sept. 16 Supreme Court ruling that Congress has a mandatory constitutional duty to enact a law prohibiting political dynasties after 39 years of inaction. The CBCP endorsed the Dapat Isa Lang initiative in a Sept. 25 pastoral statement, describing political dynasties as a moral and ethical concern. Father Robert Reyes of Clergy for Good Governance said the campaign is about the common good and not a partisan political fight. The movement, launched in May, seeks at least 7 million signatures, or 10% of the country’s registered voters, for the proposed people’s initiative.

ILLEGAL VAPE. Bureau of Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno witnesses the destruction of illegal vape products worth P1.428 billion, the agency’s largest single-operation seizure of smuggled vapes, at the BOC-Manila International Container Port. The 3,174 boxes of vape devices and pods, seized in March, lack Bureau of Internal Revenue tax stamps. Norman Cruz

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PH raises debate on WPS before UN General Assembly By Katrina Manubay and Itchie Cabayan

HIGH COSTS OF WASTE DISPOSAL. Workers load unsegregated garbage onto a dump truck in Baguio City. Residents and local business owners oppose the implementation of a new ordinance raising garbage collection fees by over 100 percent which the city government says will fund much needed improvements and efficiency in local waste management services. Conrad Rotor

THE Philippines pushed back against China’s rejection of the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling, reaffirming its final and binding nature during the General Debate of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman for the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said the military firmly reject and strongly condemn the groundless smears and accusations made by China against the Philippines. In exercising his right of reply during the debate, Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the United Nations Second Secretary Paolo Mapula called on Beijing to comply with the award. “The Philippines rejects China’s measures and calls for compliance with UNCLOS and the award. Mr. President, the Philippines reiterates that the award did not create rights for the Philippines beyond those provided by UNCLOS. It authoritatively applied the convention to the dispute submitted to the tribunal,” Mapula said on Monday, Sept. 28. “To respect the award is therefore to respect UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) and the integrity of the legal order established by the convention,” he added. Mapula also said the ruling matters to the entire international community. He noted that the certainty and predictability provided by UNCLOS support freedom of navigation and overflight, along with other internationally lawful uses of the sea, and ensure the unimpeded flow of lawful commerce through the world’s waterways.

‘OSG to defend BSKE deferral case at SC’ By Charles Dantes and Vito Barcelo

IN BRIEF

ALACAÑANG said on Thursday that the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) is ready to defend before the Supreme Court the law postponing the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE), adding that the administration will abide by the high court’s ruling.

2027 NEP short on 230k TES clients—Gatchalian SENATE President Sherwin Gatchalian on Thursday criticized the lack of funding under the 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP) for over 230,000 incoming Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) beneficiaries coming from Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) families. According to Gatchalian, the total funding shortfall for the TES program under the proposed 2027 national budget reached P12.023 billion, leaving 709,709 student slots completely without funds. “They need more educational assistance. It is not enough that they do not pay tuition, we need to support them so they can finish their studies and not drop out,” he said, citing that a total of P3.1 billion in government allocations will be necessary to fully cover the educational assistance needed by the 230,417 new 4Ps student beneficiaries. Included in the total deficit is P4.21 billion missing from the allocation for 70,471 continuing 4Ps scholars who will enter their next year of study, as well as P2.39 billion to assist 177,036 eligible 4Ps beneficiaries whose unprovided funding was carried over from fiscal year 2026. Ram Superable

UK, Czech embassies pay tributes to CMFR THE United Kingdom and Czech embassies in the Philippines on Wednesday paid tribute to the Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR) following the closure of its operations after 37 years of promoting press freedom and responsible journalism. In a statement issued as co-chairs of the Media Freedom Coalition Embassy Network in the Philippines, the foreign missions recognized CMFR’s role in promoting press freedom, responsible journalism, and the safety of journalists in the Philippines. “The Members of the Media Freedom Coalition acknowledge the closure of the Centre for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR) and pay tribute to its decades of work in promoting press freedom, responsible journalism, and the safety of journalists in the Philippines,” the statement read. “We thank CMFR for its longstanding contribution to media freedom and democratic accountability,” it added. Katrina Manubay

BOC destroys P1.4-b illegal vape products THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Thursday destroyed more than ₱1.4 billion worth of illicit vape products in what it said was its largest single-operation seizure of smuggled vape products. The destruction was carried out to prevent the seized goods from re-entering the market. The shipment consisted of 3,174 boxes of vape devices and pods under the Chillax, Black Bar and Shift brands, with an estimated value of ₱1.428 billion. Customs officials seized the shipment in March 2026 at a warehouse in Manila following an intelligence operation involving the BOC-Manila International Container Port and the Philippine Coast Guard. Vito Barcelo

PRIME CUTS. A vendor arranges his fresh cuts of pork at a public market in Metro Manila where retail prices somehow stabilized at P350 to P360 per kilo notwithstanding the prevailing inflation. Edd Castro

‘Review of US plea Veloso advises OFW hopefuls to go for extradition of by the book to avoid misadventures Quiboloy finalized’ By Gwyneth Nolasco By Gwyneth Nolasco THE Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed on Thursday that the review conducted on Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Apollo Quiboloy’s extradition request of the United States government is now on its final stages. In the press briefing, DOJ Secretary Fredderick Vida said they are set to file the petition. The religious leader is detained at the Pasig City Jail, facing charges of qualified human trafficking and sexual abuse. He is also wanted by the US government as he was allegedly involved in sex trafficking, visa fraud, and other offenses. “We are almost ready to file that petition, of course the Philippines would comply with its obligations under the Extradition Treaty with the United States,” Vida said. However, Vida declined to give a timetable on Quiboloy’s extradition to the US. Vida only said that lawyers and judges need to weigh in the ruling for his case. Under Section 4, Rule 1 of the Supreme Court’s Rule on Extradition Proceedings, an offense is extraditable when the act or omission is punishable under the laws of the Philippines and the Requesting State by imprisonment or other deprivation of liberty.

MARY Jane Veloso on Thursday called on Filipinos to undergo the legal process in applying for work to avoid the horrific experience that she went through, marked by imprisonment at the death row in Indonesia. In a press briefing at the Department of Justice (DOJ), Veloso expressed support for Filipinos who hope to work abroad to fulfil their dreams and to redeem their families from poverty. She urged workers holding to go abroad to undergo the legal process by seeking help from the Department of

Migrant Workers (DMW). “Gusto ko po na dumaan po tayo sa tamang proseso. Meron naman po tayong DMW na siyang magbibigay po ng instruction para po malaman natin na talagang meron pong trabaho yun pong lugar na pupuntahan natin para hindi po tayo mapahamak,” she added. Veloso was set free on Friday (Sept. 25) ending more than 16 years in prison as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. granted her an absolute pardon. She was detaineds in Indonesia on Apr. 26, 2010, and was initially on death row on Apr. 24, 2015. Afterwards, Indonesia suspended her execution through a reprieve.

Meanwhile, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) will resume voter registration in the second week of November and will keep the process open until July 30, 2027, Comelec chairman George Garcia said. “We already spoke with the Office of the Solicitor General, and they are just waiting for a copy of the petition,” Presidential Press Undersecretary Claire Castro said. She said the Commission on Elections and the Senate had also coordinated with the OSG, which was prepared to respond within the period set by the Supreme Court. “They are ready to respond immediately once they receive a copy of the petition, and they will comply with the Supreme Court’s order requiring a response within five days from receipt of the petition,” Castro said. Asked about petitioner Romulo Macalintal’s claim that postponing the elections violated the constitutional right to suffrage, Castro said Malacañang would defer to the OSG on the legal issue. “We would rather that this position come from the Office of the Solicitor General,” she added. Macalintal filed the petition seeking a temporary restraining order or status quo ante order against the implementation of RA 12326. He also asked the court to declare the law inoperative, invalid or unconstitutional insofar as it postpones the BSKE. RA 12326, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in September, moved the next regular BSKE to the second Monday of November 2028 and sets succeeding elections every five years. The law also fixes the terms of elected barangay and SK officials at five years, subject to term limits.

STRUGGLE FOR DECENT PAY. University of the Philippines faculty members and other employees stage a demonstration marking the 25th year of their labor union to highlight their demand for P50,000-entry level salary and an increase of their Personnel Economic Relief Allowance to P5,000. Manny Palmero

OPINION

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026

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EDITORIAL

The Senate should act on the National Land Use Act LOOK at Bangkok today. Thailand is dealing with severe flooding that has inundated parts of its capital and affected dozens of provinces. Bangkok was swamped by around 320 millimeters of rain in just three days—nearly as much as it normally receives during the entire month of September. Thousands sought refuge and at least 23 people have died since the flooding began. There is a lesson here for the Philippines. We should not wait for another disaster before seriously addressing how we use our land. The House of Representatives has already approved House Bill 8466, the proposed National Land Use Act, and transmitted it to the Senate last May. Surigao del Norte Rep. Francisco “Lalo” Matugas is the principal author of the measure, which seeks to establish a national land use policy. The effort did not begin with the present Congress. In the 19th Congress, former Surigao del Norte Rep. Francisco Jose “Bingo” Matugas II was among the principal authors of House Bill 8162, an earlier National Land Use proposal approved by the House but which did not become law. Now the House has acted again. The Senate has another opportunity to move the legislation forward. This is not simply about zoning. It is about food security, disaster resilience, environmental protection and deciding how a country with limited land accommodates agriculture, housing, infrastructure and industry. Consider our food supply. The Philippines imports millions of tons of rice. Even onions, garlic and fish such as galunggong have become part of recurring debates over importation and domestic supply. These and other agricultural commodities have also figured in government campaigns against agricultural smuggling. Imports can fill legitimate shortages. But how dependent do we want the Philippines to become on other countries for the food Filipinos eat every day? A country cannot talk seriously about food security while steadily losing productive agricultural land. Rice fields converted into subdivisions do not become rice fields again when world prices rise. Agricultural areas lost to development cannot simply be recreated when foreign supplies are disrupted. Development, of course, cannot stop. People need homes. Businesses need land. Government needs space for infrastructure. The issue is where development should occur and which areas should be protected for the country’s long-term requirements. Then there is disaster risk. Bangkok is experiencing it today. Nepal has suffered destructive floods and landslides. Japan has incorporated disaster risk into land-use planning and development controls. We do not even have to look abroad. Pampanga was placed under a state of calamity in August after widespread flooding affected 297 barangays in 17 local government units and more than 860,000 people. Bulacan likewise experienced widespread

flooding affecting communities, agriculture and infrastructure. A National Land Use Act will not stop typhoons, monsoon rains or overflowing rivers. But where we build houses matters. Where subdivisions and factories are allowed matters. Whether waterways and watersheds are protected matters. Whether development is permitted in flood-prone areas matters. And whether productive agricultural land is preserved matters. Thousands of individual land-use decisions accumulated over decades can reshape agricultural areas, watersheds, floodplains and entire urban regions.

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Local planning should operate within national objectives involving agriculture, housing, infrastructure, environmental protection and disaster resilience. Floodwaters do not recognize municipal boundaries. Neither do watersheds, food systems or environmental consequences. That is why a national framework is necessary. Local governments should remain central to planning. But local planning should operate within national objectives involving agriculture, housing, infrastructure, environmental protection and disaster resilience. The Senate should carefully examine the House measure. Farmers, LGUs, property owners, developers, environmental groups and other affected sectors deserve to be heard. The measure can be improved where necessary. But disagreement should not again become an excuse for indefinite delay. The Philippines will continue to urbanize. Agricultural land will face greater pressure from conversion. Climate risks will increasingly affect where communities can safely grow. And we will continue confronting a basic question: How much of the food consumed by Filipinos should we be capable of producing ourselves instead of becoming increasingly dependent on foreign supply? The National Land Use Act will not solve all these problems. But without a coherent national framework, we will continue making decisions about a finite resource one subdivision, one conversion and one local zoning decision at a time. Bangkok today should be another reminder. Pampanga and Bulacan have already given us reminders of our own. The House has acted. The Senate now has the measure before it. We should plan before the next disaster— not legislate because another one has already happened. The Senate should act—now.

Japan tightens rules for foreigners wanting permanent residency By Hiroshi Hiyama TOKYO — Japan toughened on Thursday requirements for foreigners wanting to obtain permanent residency, as part of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s push to tighten immigration controls. Under new rules that will come into effect in stages, foreign residents wishing to stay in Japan permanently will have to prove their annual income is above average and they can carry casual conversations in Japanese. Application fees will also rise 20-fold from Thursday and at one immigration office in central Tokyo visited by AFP this week hundreds of people queued, hoping to wrap up procedures before the price spike. “I understand that over-accepting foreigners... might dilute Japan’s unique culture. But at the same time, given its low birth rate and aging population, Japan has to accept foreigners,” said American-born university student Yujie Chono, who was among those waiting. The 22-year-old told AFP, in fluent Japanese, that he had been waiting for five hours to file his paperwork. Previous guidelines did not lay out specific thresholds for income, pension or language skills. Even though Japan has a rapidly ageing population and is suffering labour shortages in many sectors, opposition to immigration is growing, prompting a push by Takaichi

for tighter regulations on foreign nationals. “As the number of foreign residents in Japan increases, the government is facing the fact that some citizens feel anxiety and a sense of unfairness,” Takaichi said in an extended post on X on Sunday, adding that she was pushing for “orderly coexistence” with foreign nationals.

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They have to prove their annual income is above average and they can carry casual conversations in Japanese. Programmes to attract international workers have fuelled public worry. Anti-immigration sentiment has spread across social media and false claims have circulated widely, including that a significant portion of welfare payments in Japan go to foreigners and that they are making Japanese streets less safe. Experts and many business leaders warn however that Japan must welcome more foreign workers to sustain itself. Japan needs to open its doors to more for-

A new approach to jail overcrowding

HE Supreme Court has taken a step in the right direction with its recent decision to address jail overcrowding that stands as one of the most visible failures of our criminal-justice system. Cells meant for a fraction of their present population have become breeding grounds for violence, despair and disease. Hence, the High Tribunal’s proposal to consider house arrest, medical confinement and community-supervised release deserves serious attention, not simply as a way of making jails less crowded, but as an opportunity to rethink how we administer justice.

According to Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, the Supreme Court is revising its rules on the detention and release of persons deprived of liberty to include these alternatives. The scale of the problem is gargantuan. In a November 2025 resolution, the Supreme Court cited figures showing that the Philippines had approximately 181,000 prisoners and ranked among the countries with the highest levels of prison overcrowding. More revealing is that 87.32 percent of persons deprived of liberty in BJMP facilities were still undergoing investigation, trial or awaiting final judgment as of July 31, 2025. Only 12.68 percent had been sentenced. This tells us something very important: overcrowding is not simply a problem of too many convicted crimi-

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Overcrowding is not simply a problem of too many convicted criminals. The Court has already taken a practical step. In November 2025, it approved rules allowing the transfer of prisoners sentenced to three years or

ance of a public duty. Discretion over method leaves the core duty intact. The Court ultimately agreed with this line of reasoning. The fourth petition, G.R. No. 277747, took another path. It asked the Court to make COMELEC enforce the ban. Petitioners wanted rules on dynastic candidates’ eligibility. They hoped COMELEC could cancel certain candidacies. The entire dispute centers on Article II, Section 26. It guarantees equal access to public service opportunities. It also bans dynasties “as may be defined by law.”

ON August 26, 2026, the Supreme Court made history. The decision confronts a long-unfulfilled constitutional promise. That promise is the prohibition of political dynasties. The lead case is Kapatiran Party v. Congress. It consolidated four petitions raising closely related constitutional questions. Associate Justice Ramon Paul L. Hernando penned the unanimous decision. It found Congress committed grave abuse by failing to legislate. The Constitution has required an anti-dynasty law since 1987. Yet the ruling also carries clear and deliberate limits. The Court declined to write the law itself. It also denied a petition seeking action from COMELEC. Both sides of the decision deserve careful public attention. The petitions that reached the court Four separate petitions eventually reached the Supreme Court together. Three targeted Congress and its long inaction. The fourth sought action from the Commission on Elections. Kapatiran Party filed the lead petition, G.R. No. 263934. Edilberto M. Cuenca and Norman V. Cabrera joined it. They sued as citizens, taxpayers, and a registered political party. They called Congress’s silence a continuing constitutional violation. They asked the Court to compel compliance with Section 26. Wilfredo M. Trinidad and others filed G.R. No. 272370. They sought a writ of mandamus against Congress. In their view, the Constitution had already settled the policy. Only the details, they said, remained for lawmakers. G.R. No. 279201 drew an especially prominent group of petitioners. Former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales joined the 1Sambayan Coalition. Christian Monsod and several bishops also signed. They sought certiorari and mandamus against both chambers. Legislative refusal, they argued, blocked the constitutional provision. Mandamus can compel perform-

Congress treated that phrase as a protective shield. Without a law, it argued, nothing could be enforced. The petitioners agreed Congress must define the ban’s scope. They rejected any power to delay it forever. The Court therefore had to choose between these competing readings. The justices consulted the 1986 Constitutional Commission records. Commissioner Jose N. Nolledo warned against concentrated family power. The framers weighed definitions based on kinship and succession. They left the precise definition to future lawmakers. The Court found deep significance in that choice. The framers trusted Congress with the task of definition. They still fully expected the prohibition to take real effect. The word “shall” carried special weight in the Court’s analysis. The justices read it as a mandatory command. The phrase “defined by law” shapes only the details. The obligation to prohibit dynasties stays intact. Congress controls content within constitutional boundaries.

Article II provisions often read as broad statements of policy. The Court found Section 26 sufficient to impose a duty. Its text and history create a genuine legislative obligation. The Constitution itself declares that a law must exist. The 1987 Constitution took effect nearly forty years ago. No comprehensive anti-dynasty law has passed since that time. The Court treated this history as decisive. The decision counted 101 anti-dynasty bills since ratification. Each bill shows Congress knew about the mandate. Successive Congresses had many chances to debate the subject. Filing bills, however, falls short of enacting law. The Constitution requires a statute, and none emerged. Respondents cited Republic Act No. 10742 as partial compliance. That 2015 law reformed the Sangguniang Kabataan. Its Section 10 disqualifies certain relatives of local officials. The Court found this sectorspecific measure insufficient. Article VIII, Section 1 lets courts review grave abuse. Grave abuse includes evading a positive constitutional duty. Ordinary legislative delay rarely meets this demanding standard. This case combined several aggravating factors at once. The Constitution gave Congress an express directive. The delay stretched across almost four full decades. Repeated bills showed constant awareness of the duty. Still, the required law never reached final enactment. The Court called this a “patent and palpable failure.” It amounted to a virtual refusal to perform the duty. The Court also revisited earlier rulings in Guingona and Biraogo. It vacated statements in those cases inconsistent with this doctrine. The second part of this article will be published next week. Website: tonylavina.com Facebook/Instagram: tonylavs tonylavina.wordpress.com

eigners, the Nikkei business daily said in a recent editorial. “Japan should stop viewing foreigners merely as a temporary labour force and instead promote their long-term settlement by expanding Japanese-language education and improving their treatment,” it said. Anti-immigration sentiment Foreigners were a major issue in last year’s upper house election which saw the sharp rise of the “Japanese-first” Sanseito party, which describes immigration as a “silent invasion”. The new rules for permanent residency come after the ruling Liberal Democratic

Party last year pushed to tighten regulations for business manager visas, meaning entrepreneurs will be forced to leave Japan if they don’t meet the new conditions. Some foreign residents seek permanent residency to secure long-term stability, employment freedom and to earn trust within Japanese society. Those without permanent residency often have a difficult time seeking mortgages, for example. Thursday’s changes may prevent some people from applying for permanent residency but should not immediately push anyone out of the country. Under the regulations, the application fee

for permanent residency will soar to 200,000 yen ($1,275) from the current 10,000 yen. Candidates must also show “understanding” of social rules and demonstrate expected pension benefits equivalent to someone who has paid pension insurance for 30 years. Having lived in Japan for a decade, permanent residency applicant Chono said he saw both sides of the debate but that the country needed young people “to support its future”. “In recent years, I believe there had been a strong push to promote cultural diversity. The momentum has stalled, perhaps, and maybe it may never fully return,” he said. AFP

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Yet the ruling also carries clear and deliberate limits.

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MEMBER

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Forty years is too long to bar political dynasties

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno

Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone numbers 8-5646225 and 8-5646229 (connecting all departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, (Advertising) 832-5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www.manilastandard.net

nals. A very large proportion consists of people who have not yet been finally convicted. Keeping them behind bars for prolonged periods while their cases move slowly through the courts definitely contributes to congestion.

less from severely congested jails to less crowded facilities, subject to court approval and safeguards for their families and rights. The Court noted that more than 80 percent of convicted prisoners covered by its data had sentences of three years or less. But transferring prisoners from one overcrowded jail to another is only part of the answer. The more fundamental issue is whether imprisonment should always be the default response, particularly for nonviolent offenders, elderly or seriously ill detainees, and people who pose little danger to the community. This is where house arrest, medical confinement and community supervision could make a difference. Properly designed, they can protect public safety while reserving scarce jail space for people who genuinely need to be incarcerated. But alternatives to imprisonment must not become an excuse for weakening due process or creating arbitrary distinctions between detainees. There must be clear eligibility rules, judicial oversight, reliable monitoring and adequate resources for probation and community supervision. The jail overcrowding crisis is merely a symptom of a larger problem: a justice system in which too many people remain behind bars while waiting for justice. The Supreme Court’s latest proposals offer an opportunity to move from a jailcentered system toward a justicecentered one.

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WORLD

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026

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Sokor head urges Pyongyang dialogue IN BRIEF S

EOUL – South Korean President Lee Jae Myung urged North Korea on Thursday to return to dialogue, a day after Seoul’s military demanded an apology over a blast in the demilitarized zone that severely injured three South Korean soldiers.

India hails ‘hero’ flydubai pilot for averting disaster

MUMBAI – India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Indian pilot Smit Machchhar as a “hero” Thursday after he was wounded by his co-pilot aboard a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight as they fought for control of the aircraft. Airline flydubai said all the passengers – of whom 166 out of 174 were Israeli, according to media reports – were safe. “Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO,” Modi said in a statement posted on social media. “In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others,” Modi added. “His valor helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy. India is proud of Captain Machchhar. Praying for his speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had also hailed Machchhar “for his extraordinary bravery,” praising him for fighting back despite being wounded and “preventing a catastrophic mid-air disaster” on Wednesday. AFP

US roller coaster shut after brain damage claims LOS ANGELES – A popular California roller coaster is being permanently shut down after dozens of people claimed to have suffered brain damage while riding it. The X2 at Six Flags Magic Mountain features precipitous drops and jarring twists that have thrilled millions of riders over two decades, with seats that swivel 360 degrees as cars travel at speeds of up to 80 miles (130 kilometers) an hour. But it has also sparked a rash of legal complaints, including from two women whose families say they were seriously injured in July on the ride in Valencia, just north of Los Angeles. Pamela Guillen, 40, suffered a severe subdural hematoma and brain compression after riding X2 on July 5, and underwent emergency surgery that required doctors to remove part of her skull, her family told CNN in an investigation last month. Less than a week later, Naomi GreerWilkinson of Los Angeles, 25, lost consciousness after riding X2 and underwent emergency brain surgery, CNN reported. She remained in a coma for weeks and still can’t speak or breathe on her own, according to her parents. AFP

BIRD FLU VICTIMS. Infographic shows the types of Australian wild birds affected by the H5

bird flu virus. AFP

Kremlin critic: US intel warned Fifth measles-associated life ‘in danger’ death reported in US

WASHINGTON – Authorities in Pennsylvania confirmed Wednesday a fifth death linked to measles, as thousands of cases spread in the worst US outbreak in 35 years. Lancaster County health officials confirmed an unvaccinated resident died of the highly contagious disease, without offering further details. The region is known for its large Amish population, a traditionalist Christian community that avoids modern society and has lower vaccination rates than the general population. The outbreak in Pennsylvania has affected 943 patients in 29 counties, state officials said. Across the United States, as of September 24 there were 3,642 cases reported in 47 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles was declared eradicated in the US in 2000 after years of effective vaccination campaigns. The disease killed hundreds of children every year in the US before a vaccine was developed in the 1960s. But the illness has made a worrying comeback in recent years as vaccine skepticism rose alongside growing mistrust of health authorities, spurred on by President Donald Trump’s vitriol against public health leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. AFP

PARIS – Kremlin critic and chess legend Garry Kasparov said Thursday that US and Lithuanian security services had told him and his ally that their lives were in danger and urged them to take security precautions. “News that I, along with my longtime associate and co-founder of the Free Russia Forum, Ivan Tyutrin, are on a list of assassination targets did not come as a surprise to me, but it is nevertheless a shock,” Kasparov said on social media. “Lithuanian and US security services informed us that our lives were in danger and that we should take precautionary measures. I did exactly that, and I will continue to do so in the future.” Kasparov, 63, published the statement after the US Department of Justice in mid-September announced charges against five alleged agents for Russian intelligence accused of conspiring to carry out attacks and murders around the world, including in the United States. The group attempted to have a “prominent Russian dissident” living in the United States murdered this summer, the department said. The US authorities did not name the Kremlin critic, only identifying him as “Victim-1.” One of the defendants is an officer of Russia’s FSB security service. AFP

Seoul and Pyongyang remain technically at war since the 1950-53 Korean War ended in a truce, not a peace treaty. Three South Korean officers were severely injured in the September 21 explosion inside the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the heavily mined buffer dividing the two Koreas since their 1953 armistice. One lost his foot. The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un denied on Wednesday that North Korea was behind the landmine blasts. “The knots in inter-Korean relations are extremely complex, but we will steadily, patiently strive to untie them, one by one,” Lee said on Thursday in his speech marking South Korea’s Armed Forces Day. “I hope that the North joins us now on the path of restoring trust and resuming dialogue, following a long interruption,” he added. A day earlier, Seoul’s military had demanded an apology from North Korea, claiming the incident was “a clear violation of the Armistice Agreement and undermines the spirit of existing inter-Korean agreements.” The US-led United Nations Command also said Wednesday that a joint investigation with Seoul’s military had “identified an active Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea’s) antipersonnel mine on the ROK side of the Military Demarcation Line.” “Based on the findings of the investigation, UNC determined that an Armistice Agreement violation occurred,” it added, reiterating what Seoul said a day earlier. But Kim’s sister said South Korea’s assertion was “too low and dirty,” and accused Seoul of trying to fabricate evidence after blaming the regime for the mines incident. “We will never remain a passive onlooker to the hostile acts causing great concern in the border area,” she added. President Lee has reversed the stance of his hawkish predecessor Yoon Suk Yeol since taking power in June 2025, offering nuclear-armed Pyongyang talks without preconditions. AFP

New AI chatbot pulls back from debunking Trump WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump unveiled what he called a “damn good” AI chatbot, but it quickly drew attention for contradicting some of his contentious political claims. A day later, however, it stopped answering some political questions. “Hello, America. Whatever you need from the government, start here,” reads the America.gov platform, which Trump launched on Tuesday in a bid to simplify access to government information and federal services. The chatbot soon began contradicting

Trump on controversial subjects such as the 2020 presidential election, which he wrongly claims to have won, and the January 6, 2021 insurrection that saw a violent mob attacking the US Capitol. “On its first day, America.gov harnessed facts and official documents to contradict some of the false narratives and political framing about immigration and elections heavily promoted by the administration that built it,” said the Digital Democracy Institute of the Americas. “Initial analyses found that America. gov generally provided evidence-based

answers backed by government records, even when those records contradicted claims made by Trump and his administration.” On Tuesday, when asked whether there had been widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election, the chatbot responded: “Official federal assessments after the 2020 presidential election did not find fraud at a scale that changed the outcome.” Democratic lawmakers quickly promoted the chatbot’s responses about the election. AFP

ABORTION LOCKER. This photo shows an activist taking an envelope containing medication from one of the compartments of the ‘Abortomat’ – Poland’s first-ever abortion locker that allows women to access pregnancyterminating pills anonymously in the country with some of Europe’s strictest abortion laws. AFP

Tennessee woman in hospital after execution ‘failed’

MASSIVE CABARET. Dancers perform during an attempt to break the world record for the highest number of participants in a French Cancan performance, above the Mirroir d’Eau (Water Mirror) reflecting pool in Bordeaux, south-western France. AFP

WASHINGTON – Tennessee woman Christa Pike was in a hospital Thursday after authorities “failed” to carry out her execution, her lawyers said, with witnesses reporting the convicted murderer was breathing despite the injections intended to kill her. Just hours earlier the US Supreme Court cleared the way for Pike to be the first woman to die by lethal injection in the southern US state of Tennessee in 200 years. Tennessee corrections officials did

not publicly confirm the outcome of the execution, which included two injections of pentobarbital, or respond to an AFP query seeking information. “Tonight the State of Tennessee once again failed to carry out a lawful execution,” Pike’s attorneys said in a statement. “Christa is being treated at a nearby hospital. We have not been informed as to her condition.” Pike was scheduled for execution at 10:00 am (1500 GMT) at the Riverbend Maximum Security Institution, where

witnesses including journalists were present for the administration of the injections. “It appears this did not go how this was supposed to go,” said investigative journalist John North of WBIR who was a witness at the execution site, adding “when we left the building, so far as we knew, she was probably still alive.” During the livestream, an ambulance with its lights flashing could be seen leaving the site of the execution, it’s unclear if it was transporting Pike. AFP

SPORTS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026

Zamboanga, Quezon City complete playoff qualifiers Z AMBOANGA SiKat and Quezon City won in runaway fashion on Wednesday to complete the quarterfinals cast of the SportsPlus MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 2026 Season at the One Arena Cainta in Rizal Province.

The Zamboanguenos warmed up in the second half to trounce Basilan Steel, 83-59, in the nightcap, duplicating the Quezon City Black Bulls’ 9581 conquest of Pasig City in the first game. Zamboanga became the South Division’s eighth and final playoff qualifier, while Quezon City booked the North Division’s last slot. With Paeng Are pouring in five points ending the second quarter and Brandon Wilson, John Arthur Calisay and Reggz Gabat greeting the third with an 11-3 run, Zamboanga broke away to stay at 68-44. Wilson compiled 21 points, 14 rebounds and 4 steals to clinch the SportsPlus best player honors over Reggz Gabat, who tallied 16 points and 5 rebounds. Are contributed 9 points and 3 assists, while homegrown Forthsky Padrigao pooled 9 points, 7 assists, 3 rebounds and 2 steals. As the eighth seed, Zamboanga will face the South’s No. 1 qualifier Quezon Province in the best-of-three playoffs. Quezon City will tackle North No. 1 Abra Solid North in another best-of-three series. Basilan bowed out of the competition as only Byron Villarias and Marc Sangco struck back with 12 and 11 points, respectively. Quezon City Black Bulls pulled away after the first quarter, 29-13, and unloaded 15 points against the Pasiguenos’ two closing the second quarter to storm ahead 47-23 at the break. The Black Bulls continued their rampage and led by as far as 70-40 to return to the playoffs after a three-year absence. Ryan Costelo posted 22 points, including three triples, 3 rebounds and 3 assists to emerge as the best player over MJ Joson, who notched 17 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals. Other Black Bulls who delivered were Jessie Sumoda, with 11 points and 9 rebounds; and Kobe Monje, with 11 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals. With Costelo hitting three of four triple tries, Clark Derige going two for three, and Joson, three of six, the Black Bulls drilled in 9 of 24 for 37.5 percent, better than the Pasiguenos, who canned only 4 of 24 for 16.7 percent. Pasig exited despite Warlo Batac’s 20-point, 8-rebound, 7-assist, 2-steal effort; Jacob Galicia’s 19 points and 11 rebounds; Jerome Garcia’s 15 points; and Michael Lambino’s 10 points and 5 rebounds. The quarterfinal playoffs start Friday at the Caloocan Sports Complex, with games pitting Gensan and Rizal XentroMall at 5 p.m. and Mindoro and Binan at 7 p.m.

Brandon Wilson powers Zamboanga Sikat to the South Division playoffs.

Lumbo’s late birdie blitz for 62 steals show at ICTSI Iloilo a second straight 68 and a 203 total. Lumbo’s masterful display led to ILOILO—After a chaotic battle for He was matched by longshot Morilla, an eight-under 62 and a 10-under 200 control – and a fierce test of will and who birdied three of the first seven aggregate, seizing a comfortable threecharacter under ever-changing weather holes before surviving a roller-coaster stroke cushion over Jhonnel Ababa and conditions – an emerging star from finish of three birdies and two bogeys Francis Morilla, who both could not Sarangani stood tall. Yet a band of for a 66. match Lumbo’s blistering finish. proven winners remains in hot pursuit The performance put Morilla in title Ababa surged early into a joint lead, as the third round of the ICTSI Iloilo contention for the first time in 12 years on dropped off the leaderboard midway Golf Challenge delivered as promised: the Philippine Golf Tour. through, but fought his way back into a wild, wild chase. contention with late birdies for The day began under a steady early morning rain that dampened the fairways of the Iloilo Golf and Country Club, forcing players to adjust their touch and strategy. As the morning progressed, a brief spell of bright sunshine peeked through, bringing a sudden wave of humidity that compounded the field’s physical strain before dark, overcast skies rolled back in to wrap the course in a gloomy, unpredictable backdrop. The lead kept changing hands the moment the last drive on the first tee was struck. Four players quickly caught halfway solo leader Miki Ryoma at the helm. The race – not yet for the trophy, but for the lead – became an all-out freefor-all until Jeffren Lumbo took firm control late in the round behind what he termed a “solid” iron game. “My irons just really clicked. It was solid,” said the 30-year-old Lumbo in Filipino, The Designated Kit Man Designated Kit Man profusely praising hisThe near-impeccable iron Erel Cabatbat Erel Cabatbat game that set up nine birdies within average pin-length distances. “I struggled during the first two days, but everything worked Jeffren Lumbo tees off on hole 7 as he leads the 3rd round of the 2026 ICTSI Iloilo Golf Challenge at for me today.” the Iloilo Golf and Country Club in Iloilo. Manny Marcelo

Free Throw Shooter Nathaniel Dela Cruz

Thrown THERE is something inherently disrespectful about throwing something at another person. It does not matter if it is a bottle, a ball, a piece of paper or, in this case, a cap. The object itself may be harmless, but the act carries a different message: I throw it, and you pick it up. There is an implied hierarchy in that gesture, with one person placing himself above the other and expecting the other to perform the simple task of picking up after him. It is the kind of gesture that belittles and reduces the

From the jaws of victory NORMALLY in football, a two-goal lead after the first half is a very big lead to overcome. More often than not, a win is the most likely result for the side that is up 2-nil. But sometimes, football is such a cruel sport that even if a side appears on track to winning, the match will end up sharing the spoils or even losing the full three points. The Philippine Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT) suffered such fate and disappointment after drawing with lowly Pakistan (referring to the discrepancy of the team formerly known as the Azkals and the Falcons ranking in the FIFA pecking order, please don’t get me wrong on this), 2-2 in the ongoing FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 in Bandung, Indonesia. Goals from Sandro Reyes (24’) and Bjorn Kristensen’s strike from the spot six m ilagainutes later gave the PMNFT a 2-0 lead after the first half. Lightning warnings not only interrupted the match but the Philippines’ momentum too, as Pakistan came back from the 0-2 deficit. Muhammad Ali Akbar Khan scored Pakistan’s first goal just seconds into the second half, while Abdul Shahzad practically tore down the PMNFT’s defense to head home the equalizer and complete a historic night for Pakistan. Coach Carles Cuadrat made several changes but the Falcons were not going to be denied the breakthrough point in the tournament. Bottom line, the Philippines snatched a draw from the jaws of victory. I feel sad and at the same time, angry at what’s happening to our PMNFT’s campaign, not only in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 but the whole year in general. Prior to the tournament, the squad has racked up three wins, one draw and three losses. The PMNFT opened their 2026 campaign with a 1-1 draw against Tajikistan in the Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers. The result ended the team’s bid to join the 2027 Asian Cup after barging into the tournament seven years ago in the United Arab Emirates. This was followed by two wins in the Three Nations Tournament, a 5-1 win against Guam on June 3 and a 5-1 thrashing of Myanmar six days later in the same tune-up tournament. After the so-called unbeaten run, the team absorbed three defeats against a lone win in the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup. The Philippines managed to win against Laos, 4-1 but lost to Myanmar (4-1), Thailand (1-0) and Malaysia (1-0) to end their campaign with just three points, good for 4th in Group B. In their opening game in the current tournament, the PMNFT lost a close 1-0 game against Vietnam. The team played tooth and nail against their perennial tormentors. They had a good game against one of the best teams in the region. Because of this, it was expected that the squad would have an easier time against Pakistan. But as fate would have it, it was the Falcons who had an unforgettable comeback and the winner. Despite the draw, Pakistan had every reason to celebrate because it managed to snatch a point from a team that is ranked 66 rungs above them. Someone said that the Philippines, whenever facing a strong side, plays good or even better football. The downside is, whenever the PMNFT plays a weak team, it plays batshit football. I may or may not disagree with this, but the pattern this year is that we tend to win games that are friendly and lose or drop a point in games that really count and matter. Some people are also blaming the coaching staff for the miserable run of the team. I can say that without enough preparation, our team will not go deep in any tournament. We can’t rely on occasional flashes of brilliance from our players; we need a team that is ready, strong and raring to win. Unless this trend is going to be reversed, expect more heartbreaks in the future. The Philippines will end their Group B campaign in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 against Thailand today, 3 p.m. at Jalak Harupat Stadium. Maybe Coach Cuadrat can field the young ones against Thailand and try other players instead of his usual choices. Use the game as a test this time; we already missed several chances the whole year round, so why not make it this time to give other players the playing time that they deserve. Or maybe not. On the more positive side of things, EJ Obiena reasserted his dominance in pole vault once more in the Asian Games. Obiena defended his title in his event in a record-setting fashion. Obiena’s win gave the country its third medal in the quadrennial games but still way, way below the target of eight gold medals set by sports officials. With just two days remaining before the Asiad ends, it would take a miracle for the Philippines to at least win five more gold medals. Stay safe. Stay happy, peeps! For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account on X (formerly Twitter): @erelcabatbat

hooligans, prone to tantrums like children who person on the receiving end to someone who is have yet to learn temperance. there to serve. We are proud of Alex when she is winning. But That was what came to mind when I saw we turn against her when she tries to teach us to the incident involving Alex Eala and a fan be better. who threw a cap at her to have it signed. Eala And that hurts because many Filipinos are did not appreciate it. She told the person to genuinely good and kind, and they should not be ask nicely and reminded the fan not to throw Throw dragged into the mud by people who use Filipino things at athletes. A classy Free response to Shooter a Nathaniel Dela Cruzpride simply as something to flex. classless act. That is what gets me thrown: fans who join But that is not the biggest disappointment. a fandom thinking themselves important. The This is: fans-turned-haters who have turned persistence of this terribly misguided notion that against Alex Eala on social media, when all Alex because we supported an athlete, we somehow did was remind someone of basic manners. own a small part of the success we helped cheer I don’t know which is worse: fans who turn into existence. a blind eye to their idols’ bad qualities, or fans I supported you, therefore you owe me who turn against their idols over a perceived something. I watched your games, cheered slight because, deep down, they know that they for you, followed your career and celebrated would’ve done the same, that they too would have violated someone’s personal space to get your victories, so I should be entitled to your an autograph. attention, your time, an autograph, a photograph Birds of a feather. Virtue-signaling vultures. I or whatever else I might ask for. see them all the time. We should evolve and learn that supporting an That is the one thing I don’t like about Filipino athlete does not give us ownership of that athlete. fandom. We are passionate, but many of us are Our admiration does not purchase access. We can also immature. We are fans on the best days, celebrate, cheer and feel invested in the journey, but beneath the surface, some of us are still but only the athlete can claim ownership of the

destination. Eala’s success is the product of years of training, competition and sacrifice. We have seen her as a young, aspiring tennis player, and now she is all grown up. We, as fans, should grow up too. Let’s ask ourselves: what kind of fans are we? Are we the kind who shows up to support the person, or are we simply there to enjoy the feelgood flex this person gives us? One is a genuine fan. The other is a fair-weather friend. Victory is easy to embrace. If we want to become real fans, we should also learn to embrace the difficult and challenging concepts that come with supporting another person: boundaries, respect, accountability and the fact that athletes are people, too, who deserve dignity and personal space. This is the ugly side of fandom: the belief that admiration creates entitlement, and that an athlete who fails to satisfy that entitlement deserves to be labeled ungrateful or arrogant. So be careful about throwing things. You might not notice that, somewhere along the way, you have also thrown away your manners and the disguise you wear to convince yourself and others that you are a fan.

SPORTS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026

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

Tolentino confident Team PH will exceed 4-gold harvest in Asiad

Amaya Amparo Cojuangco with PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio POC Media

Cojuangco ends PH archery medal drought By Riera U. Mallari

AGOYA (Powered by PLDT Home)— Amaya Amparo Cojuangco fought her way from the back of the field to a historic silver medal, delivering the Philippines’ first Asian Games medal in women’s individual compound archery in 12 years at the 20th Asian Games here on Thursday. Cojuangco, who admitted she “super wanted the gold,” settled for the silver after falling to Indonesia’s Nurisa Dian Ashrifah in the final match at the Okazaki Chuo Sogo Park Multipurpose Square. The 40-year-old Filipina came to within two points of the gold before bowing to Indonesia’s Nurisa Dian Ashrifah, 139-137, in a tightly

contested finale. “Very lucky. I thank the Lord,” Cojuangco said. “I think it’s like destiny because I really didn’t qualify well. Like I was around 28, so I came from behind and every match was really a fight.” Cojuangco’s silver was the Philippines’ first appearance in an Asian Games archery final, giving

the country its first Asiad archery medal since Paul Marton Dela Cruz bagged the bronze in 2014. It was a remarkable turnaround for Cojuangco, who entered the individual competition ranked only around 28th after the qualification round. But she steadily battled her way through the knockout stages and into the championship match. “I wanted the gold. I super wanted the gold. I’m sad. I’m sad that I lost, but also grateful that I still have a silver medal,” she said. The key, she said, was getting back to the basics. “Focus and hunker down and concentrate on my form,” said, Cojuangco, who battled through difficult conditions in the final, with strong winds making it challenging for both archers to

consistently find the 10-ring. The match was level at 28-all after the opening end before Ashrifah moved ahead by a single point in the second. The two remained locked in a tight battle through the succeeding ends, but the Indonesian archer pulled away in the decisive fifth end, scoring 29 points to Cojuangco’s 27. Cojuangco said she felt she shot well in the final despite the result. “I don’t know. I felt good. The shots were good, but I didn’t qualify,” she said. “Sometimes, that’s it. I could only do my best.” Her historic campaign came after a difficult buildup, including a shoulder injury suffered several months before the games. “I had a shoulder injury a few months ago,” Cojuangco said. “Shooting-wise, it was also erratic.”

NAGOYA (Powered by PLDT Home)— Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino remains confident that Team Philippines can eclipse its four-gold performance as the 20th Asian Games enters its final three days. Speaking with media on Thursday, Tolentino emphasized that the national delegation still has several realistic opportunities to secure top podium finishes across multiple sports. “May tatlong simba up to Sunday morning. Last 3 days, still hoping for more golds,” Tolentino said. “Siguro naman sure na malalampasan ‘yung apat,” added the POC head, referencing the four-gold output from Hangzhou three years prior via pole vault star Ernest John Obiena, jiu-jitsu champions Meggie Ochoa and Annie Ramirez, and the Gilas Pilipinas men’s basketball team. The Philippines currently holds three gold medals in Nagoya, led by two-time Olympic champion Carlos Yulo (men’s floor exercise and vault) and reigning pole vault champion EJ Obiena. Despite earlier setbacks, including premature exits from the Sibol Mobile Legends roster and MMA fighter Jean Claude Saclag, Tolentino emphasized that other events remain primed to deliver results. “Ganu’n talaga. May napipitas, may pumapalit. God willing, mayroon pa pagkukunan,” Tolentino said. Scanning the remaining schedule, Tolentino identified several disciplines where Filipino athletes could mount a late campaign for gold, including tennis, boxing, martial arts, beach volleyball, padel, golf, and team sports. “Of course, Alex [Eala]. Boxing, Carlo Paalam. Judo. Malakas nga lang ‘yung first event ngayon. What else? Jiu-jitsu. Hopefully dalawa, so apat na ‘yun. Hindi ko alam dynamics ng softball. Pumasok pa ang padel, so lima. Meron pa ‘yan,” he noted. He also voiced strong support for the women’s golf team, featuring Bianca Pagdanganan and Rianne Malixi. As the games move toward Sunday’s closing ceremonies, Tolentino urged support and prayers from back home for the remaining contenders.

POC chief Abraham Tolentino with EJ Obiena POC Media

Lim survives tight bouts, keeps Asiad medal bid alive NAGOYA (Powered by PLDT Home)—Marc Alexander Lim kept his medal hopes alive in the 20th Asian Games men’s jiu-jitsu competition after grinding out two closely contested victories at the Aichi Prefectural Martial Arts Hall. The Filipino standout prevailed on advantages against Mongolia’s Tuvdentarvaa Choijamts in the opening round and Kyrgyzstan’s Ramazan Tianguber in repechage to stay in contention for a podium finish in the men’s under-69kg division. Lim began his campaign with a tense round-of-32 encounter against Choijamts, with both competitors finishing level at 2-2 on points and recording two penalties apiece. The Filipino’s 3-1 edge on advantages proved decisive, securing his passage

Marc Alexander Lim (left) grapples with Kyrgyzstan’s Ramazan Tianguber during the men’s under-69kg jiu-jitsu repechage at the 20th Asian Games.

to the round of 16. Later competing in repechage, Lim again found himself in a tight contest, this time against Tianguber, as the two grapplers finished tied at 2-2 on points. Lim held a clear 3-0 advantage tally to secure the victory and extend his campaign. He also finished without a penalty, while his Kyrgyz opponent incurred one. The two wins underscored Lim’s ability to produce decisive exchanges in matches where neither competitor could establish a lead on points. Against Choijamts, his twoadvantage margin settled the opening contest. Against Tianguber, his three unanswered advantages helped him clear another hurdle in his pursuit of an Asian Games medal.

PH to host 2 WTA tournaments in 2027 By Jeremiah Sevilla THE Philippines is set to host two Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tournaments in 2027, with Manila adding a higher-tier WTA 250 event to its calendar after successfully staging the Philippine Women’s Open last January. Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) secretary general John Rey Tiangco and board member Dyan Castillejo confirmed that the WTA 250 tournament will be held in late October or early November next year, in addition to the WTA 125 event scheduled for January. “We’re happy to announce and confirm late last night we threshed out some details with our franchise holder of WTA 250. We’re going to have WTA 250 next year, 2027, late October (or) early November,” said

Tiangco, who is leading the Philippine tennis team in the ongoing 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. “So even now, we’d like to invite all the international players, hopefully to put the Philippines in your calendar. The Philippines is very excited to be hosting you again,” said Castillejo. Tiangco and Castillejo also clarified that the WTA 250 tournament will not replace the WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open, which will return in January during the second week of the Australian Open. The WTA officially approved Manila’s hosting application last week, following the international breakthrough of Filipina tennis star Alex Eala, whose matches have drawn packed crowds across the tour this year. Dubbed “Eala-mania,” the 21-yearold Filipina sensation has drawn

PHILTA secretary general John Rey Tiangco (left) and board member Dyan Castillejo Courtesy: PHILTA

attention at major tournaments, including Wimbledon and the US Open, as well as the Toronto Open and the Mubadala DC Open, where she claimed her first WTA Tour-level title. The additional WTA 250 tournament is expected to provide local players with more opportunities to compete against international opponents. “This tournament is such a big boost

to our local athletes who also have a chance to compete against the world’s best in tennis,” Castillejo said. Eala competed in the inaugural Philippine Women’s Open last January, reaching the quarterfinals before losing to Colombia’s Camila Osorio, 4-6, 4-6. Osorio went on to capture the title, defeating Croatia’s Donna Vekic, 2-6, 6-3, 7-5, in the final.

Alas beach volley duo shifts focus to bronze NAGOYA—The Alas Pilipinas duo Khy Progella and Sofiah Pagara bowed to Thailand’s Taravadee Naraphonapat and Worapeerachayakorn Kongphopsarutawadee, 2123, 18-21, in the semifinals to kiss their gold medal hopes goodbye in 20th Asian Games women’s beach volleyball action on Thursday at Hekinan Ryokuchi Beach Court. Progella and Pagara were poised to take the first set, 19-15, before the Thais countered to take the set point, 20-19. The Filipinos, supported by the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee, saved a point twice, but the Thais denied their attempt. The first set loss is the first set dropped by the young Alas duo in the tournament. “Nandun na kami sa moment na kaya namin makuha yung panalo kaso kulangan lang kami sa tiwala sa pinakadulo na kaya talaga namin” said Progella. In the second set, Progella and Pagara was up, 14-12, but Naraphonapat and Kongphopsarutawadee went on with a 6-0 run six to snatch the lead, 18-14, en route to seal the victory. Naraphonapat and Kongphopsarutawadee also eliminated Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons from contention in the quarterfinals, 17-21, 21-12, 13-15, on Wednesday. Progella and Pagara still have a shot at the bronze on Friday when they face China’s Cao Shuting and Dong Jie. “Mindset namin for the bronze is pinakalast push na namin since last game na for Asian Games, so why not all out na at mas sosobrahan pa ang tiwala sa sarili na kaya namin,” said Pregolla.

BUSINESS WHAT’S INSIDE?

Bank loans, money supply rose at faster pace in August By Thony Rose Lesaca

L Tim Ho Wan buys out N. American partner

NTC tests telco service in NCR

OANS extended by Philippine universal and commercial banks grew at a faster pace of 11.0 percent to P15.12 trillion in August 2026 on sustained credit demand from businesses, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Outstanding loans to businesses rose 10.6 percent to P12.73 trillion from 9.8 percent in July. The BSP said increased lending for real estate; electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply; wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles; financial and insurance activities; manufacturing; information and communication; and transportation and storage drove the August expansion. Consumer loan growth eased to 16.2 percent from 17.1 percent in July

as expansion in credit card and motor vehicle loans softened, bringing outstanding consumer loans to P2.08 trillion at end-August. Domestic liquidity, or the amount of money circulating in the economy, also expanded 11.2 percent to P20.67 trillion from 10.3 percent in July on sustained borrowing by both the private and public sectors. “Banks sustained lending to businesses and households. National Government financing activities, includ-

ing debt issuances and withdrawal of deposits from the BSP and banks, also contributed to liquidity growth,” the BSP said. Claims on the private sector climbed 12.6 percent to P15.44 trillion from P13.72 trillion a year earlier, while net claims on the central government jumped 16.6 percent to P6.35 trillion from P5.44 trillion a year ago. Meanwhile, net foreign asset (NFA) growth remained broadly unchanged, as a decline in banks’ NFA offset an increase in the BSP’s NFA, which stemmed from higher foreign currency-denominated liabilities. The BSP said it will continue to ensure that bank lending and money supply conditions remain consistent with its price and financial stability mandate.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

P15.12 trillion Bank loans as of August 2026

11%

Lending growth as of August 2026

P20.67 trillion Money supply as of August 2026

PH workers need to prepare for AI

B4 PH factory gauge fell for first time in 9 months—S&P PHILIPPINE manufacturing conditions worsened in September, with the S&P Global Philippines Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) dropping to 49.6 from 54.9 in August, S&P Global said Thursday. A reading below 50 signals contraction. It was the first deterioration in the sector’s health since April. “Filipino manufacturers reported a notable impact from high oil prices, strong international competition and weak demand during September. Output, new orders and employment all dropped into contractionary territory. Firms also signalled moves into retrenchment mode via a fresh decline in input buying and a running down of inventories,” said S&P Global Market Intelligence principal economist Siân Jones. “One area of reprieve was cost pressures, as despite hikes in oil prices, overall cost burdens rose at a softer pace. Nonetheless, efforts to protect margins led to a sharper rise in selling prices,” she said. “Manufacturing firms were less certain in the year-ahead outlook, meanwhile, due to concerns regarding pricing power against international competition. The viability of continuing to absorb hikes in costs will be an important consideration in the coming months in bids to drive customer demand,” Jones said.

Pag-IBIG Fund, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) mark the first day of National Shelter Month with the topping-off of two residential towers at JAB Residences in Dasmariñas City, Cavite on Oct. 1, 2026. Joining the event are (from left) Megawide Group chief finance officer Jez dela Cruz; PH1 World Developers president Gigi Alcantara; Dasmariñas City Mayor Elpidio Austria Barzaga III; Cavite 4th District Rep. Jennifer Austria-Barzaga; Megawide chairman, president and chief executive Edgar Saavedra; DHSUD Secretary and Pag-IBIG Fund board chairman Jose Ramon Aliling; Pag-IBIG Fund chief executive Marilene Acosta; Megawide COO Frederick Tan; Megawide chief business development officer Jaime Feliciano; Pag-IBIG Fund deputy CEO Alexander Hilario Aguilar; DHSUD senior undersecretary Eduardo Robles Jr.; and Pag-IBIG Fund deputy CEO Benjamin Felix Jr.

Pag-IBIG Fund, Megawide top off 2 residential buildings in Cavite PAG-IBIG Fund and Megawide marked the first topping-off milestone under their partnership on Oct. 1, completing the main structural works of two residential buildings at JAB Residences in Dasmariñas City, Cavite. The development will provide nearly 4,000 housing units for Filipino workers and their families under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program (Expanded 4PH). The milestone comes as the country begins National Shelter Month this

October. Finishing works and other construction activities will continue before the homes are turned over to qualified buyers. The project consists of 17 five-story buildings, and each 27-square-meter unit is priced at P1.5 million and available through the Pag-IBIG Housing Loan at low monthly payments. Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary and Pag-IBIG Fund board chairman Jose Ramon Aliling said the toppingoff adds to the momentum of Expanded 4PH as the administration works

with more partners to increase housing supply while keeping homeownership affordable. “We continue to heed the direction of President Marcos to make housing more accessible to more Filipino families. That is why we continue to address both sides of the housing equation. As we work with more partners to increase the supply of quality homes at prices our members can afford, we also make sure that financing terms remain within the means of Filipino workers. The progress we are seeing is made possible by the col-

PH Resorts closes luxury Bohol hotel

PH Resorts Group Holdings, Dennis Uy’s resort arm, closes Donatela Resort & Sanctuary in Panglao, Bohol, after foreclosure by LandBank. Photo courtesy of Donatela Resort’s Facebook page

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PH jumps 8 places to 57th in WEF 2026 travel and tourism ranking By Othel V. Campos

URBAN MINING. The Board of Investments (BOI) advances discussions with Singapore-based cleantech company BioMetallica on its planned investment in an integrated urban mining facility in the Philippines, reinforcing the agency’s efforts to build the country’s e-waste recycling capacity and attract sustainability-driven investments.

lective efforts of the national government, local governments, Pag-IBIG Fund and our private-sector partners, each contributing what it does best. This milestone is another step forward as we work to bring more homes within reach of more Filipino families,” Aliling said. Pag-IBIG Fund chief executive Marilene Acosta said the homes being developed through the partnership show how the fund can use its financial strength to increase housing supply while safeguarding and growing members’ savings.

THE Philippines climbed eight places to 57th out of 110 economies in the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) 2026 Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI), making it the seventh-fastest improving tourism economy globally this year. The country scored 4.08 out of 7, with gains led by sustainability, transport connectivity, safety and security, policy conditions and culture and heritage. Tourism Secretary Ma. Bernadita Angara-Mathay said the improved ranking followed investments in tourism infrastructure and destinations.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) acknowledged the need to ensure that tourism growth translates into jobs and livelihoods for local communities. The Philippines posted its biggest gain in travel and tourism sustainability, rising to 29th from 64th on stronger scores in nature protection and wastewater treatment. The country ranked second globally in the travel and tourism demand sustainability pillar. Its score for geographically dispersed tourism rose to 5.2 from 3.2 out of 7, indicating broader distribution of tourism activity beyond major destinations.

PH RESORTS Group Holdings Inc., the resort development arm of businessman Dennis Uy, has permanently closed Donatela Resort & Sanctuary in Panglao, Bohol, after foreclosure proceedings on the property. PH Resorts said in a stock exchange disclosure on Thursday its wholly-owned subsidiary Donatela Hotel Panglao Corp. (DHPC) closed the hotel at the end of Sept. 30, 2026. Donatela Resort & Sanctuary sits on 7.5 hectares and has 11 private villas. It is in Panglao, one of the country’s major tourism destinations. The land and improvements had been mortgaged as collateral for DHPC’s loans from United Coconut Planters Bank, now Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank). After the extrajudicial foreclosure, DHPC shut down Donatela’s operations and turned over possession of the property to LandBank. The closure adds to the Uy properties transferred to creditors. In 2023, PH Resorts transferred its 12.4-hectare Emerald Bay property in Mactan, Cebu to China Bank under a debt restructuring deal. The agreement gave PH Resorts an option to repurchase the property, but that option expired on March 31, 2025. Emerald Bay, planned as an integrated casino resort, was one of PH Resorts’ major developments before the company ran into financial difficulties.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila with the Hon. Hilario L. Laqui, as the solemnizing officer The aforesaid October 15, 1987 marriage between petitioner and his wife was registered with the respondent Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Mandaluyong City. Copy of the Certificate of Marriage and Petitioners U.S. Passport No. A72509212 which expires on 17 November 2035 are attached to this petition marked Annex A and Annex B, respectively;

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION REGIONAL TRIAL COURT BRANCH 210 MANDALUYONG CITY Tel. Nos. 02-85295825 Email address: rtc1mdl210@judiciary.gov.ph

4. Prior to the celebration of their marriage, it was their mutual understanding that upon completion of petitioner’s service with the U.S. Air Force, petitioner and his wife would retire to the Philippines;

IN RE: PETITION FOR JUDICIAL RECOGNITION OF FOREIGN DIVORCE DECREE AND FOR THE ANNOTATION/CORRECTION OF ENTRIES IN THE CIVIL REGISTRY RECORD OF MARRIAGE, SP CASE NO. R-MND-26-00952-SP JOSE NESTOR NOSCE y REYES, Petitioner, -versus-

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com

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5. Few months after the October 15, 1987 marriage between petitioner and his wife, Lilybeth Reyes-Nosce, the latter moved to the United States to live with petitioner and raise a family there. Lilybeth Reyes-Nosce worked in the United States as school teacher and later on also became an American citizen. Considering the estranged relationship between petitioner and his wife, petitioner could not produce his wife’s existing U.S. Passport. Petitioner is, hence, attaching to this petition copy of her U.S. Passport NO.512839918 which expired on 25 February 2024 marked Annex C; 6. Sometime in 2002, petitioner’s marital relationship with his wife Lilybeth Reyes-Nosce turned sour when after filing for retirement from U.S. military service in October 2002 petitioner was told by his wife that she is not joining him in his retirement to the Philippines. The said decision of petitioner’s wife not to join him in retiring to the Philippines led to frequent quarrels and their eventual separation from bed and board;

ORDER Before this court is the Compliance dated August 10,2026, received by this court on September 1, 2026, filed by petitioner, through counsel, stating that, pursuant to the court’s Order dated August 3, 2026, which directed petitioner to file an amended petition impleading Lilybeth R. Nosce as an indispensable party, the Office of the Civil Registrar, Philippine Statistics Authority, as the office maintaining the civil registry, and the Office of the Solicitor General, as statutory counsel of the Republic of the Philippines, petitioner filed an Amended Petition dated August 10, 2026. Petitioner thus prays that the same be considered as substantial if not full, compliance with the court’s Order. ACCORDINGLY, the Compliance dated August 10 2026 is hereby NOTED and deemed sufficient compliance with the court’s Order dated August 3, 2026. The appended Amended Petition dated August 10, 2026 is likewise NOTED and ADMITTED. As stated in this court’s Order dated August 3, 2026 a perusal of the Petition shows that petitioner seeks not only judicial recognition of a foreign divorce decree issued by the District Court of Clark County Nevada, U.S.A., but also the annotation and/or correction of the parties’ Record of Marriage maintained by the Office of the City Civil Registrar of Mandaluyong City. Consequently. pursuant to Rule 108, Section 41 of the Rules of Court, the Amended Petition is hereby set for hearing on November 11, 2026 at 9:00 o’clock in the morning before this court at the 2nd Floor, New Justice Hall Building, Maysilo Circle, Mandaluyong City. Notice is hereby given to all interested persons to appear and show cause, if any, why the Amended Petition should not be granted. The Local Civil Registrar concerned, the Civil Registrar General/Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Lilybeth R. Nosce, as the other spouse, the Republic of the Philippines, through the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG), and any person having or claiming any interest in the entries sought to be corrected or cancelled, or whose legal interest may be affected thereby, may file an opposition to the Amended Petition within fifteen (15) days from notice thereof or from the last date of publication of this Order, whichever is applicable.2 The Petitioner is directed to: 1. Cause the publication3 of this Order and the Amended Petition once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines, to be selected by raffle conducted by the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court of MandaIuyong City; and 2. Serve a certified copy of this Order together with a copy of the Amended Petition and its annexes, upon the following: a. Lilybeth R. Nosce; b. the Local Civil Registrar of Mandaluyong City; c. the Civil Registrar General/Philippjne Statistics Authority’ d. the Office of the Solicitor General; and e. such other persons, if any, who have or claim an interest in the entries sought to be corrected or cancelled and whose legal interests may be affected by the grant of the Amended Petition. In addition thereto, the Petitioner is directed to submit to this court proof of publication and proof of service at least five (5) days before the scheduled hearing. Failure to comply with this Order, without justifiable cause, shall warrant dismissal4 of the Amended Petition pursuant to the applicable Rules of Court.

7. Honestly believing that his marriage with Lilybeth Reyes was already beyond repair after having lived separately with each other for a considerably long period of time already, petitioner filed for divorce sometime in 2025 before the District Court, Family Court, Clark County, Nevada and docketed therein as Case No. 0-25719398-D; 8. The aforesaid petition was granted by District Court Judge Mari D.Parlade of the District Court, Clark County, by virtue of the laws of the State of Nevada, U S.A., which allows for the dissolution of marriage and capacitation of the parties to remarry. The fallo of the Divorce Decree held that: “NOW THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the bonds of matrimony now existing between the parties are hereby wholly dissolved, and an absolute Decree of Divorce is hereby granted to the arties, and each of the parties are hereby restored to the status of a single, unmarried person” (emphasis ours) The copy of the Divorce Decree dated 16 March 2026 and, the Apostille (Official Certificate) issued by Francisco V. Aguilar, Secretary of State of Nevada, U.S.A. are hereto attached and marked as Annex D and Annex E, respectively. 9. To prove that the above-mentioned divorce decree was issued pursuant to the laws of the State of Nevada, U.S.A., copy of Chapter 125 of the Nevada Revised Statute which refers to the law governing Dissolution of Marriage, such as divorce, is hereto attached marked Annex F; 10. To authenticate the copy of Chapter 125 of the Nevada Revised Statute, the Legislative Counsel Bureau of the State of Nevada, the legal custodian of copy of the Nevada Revised Statute, which includes Chapter 125 which refers to Dissolution of Marriage, certified to the fact that it is a true and correct copy of the same. The afore-mentioned certification issued by the Legislative Counsel Bureau of the State of Nevada, through its clerk, Amanda Yau, is attached to this petition marked Annex G; 11. Paragraph 2 of Article 26 of the Family Code of the Philippines states that: “Art. 26. Xxxxx

xxxxx

“Where a marriage between a Filipino citizen and a foreigner is validly celebrated and a divorce is thereafter validly obtained abroad by the alien spouse capacitating him or her to remarry, the Filipino spouse shall have capacity to remarry under Philippine law. (As amended by Executive Order 227)” 12 While petitioner and his wife, Lilybeth Reyes-Nosce, were both American Citizens at the time the divorce decree was obtained by petitioner in the state of Nevada, U.S.A on 16 March 2026 - a circumstance that would not trigger the application of the Article 26 (2) provision of the Family Code - petitioner, nevertheless, humbly submits that the instant petition is a proper remedy to effect the correction of the entry of their marriage certificate that is being kept and/or on file with the respondent Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Mandaluyong City; 13. Further, even if the Nevada divorce decree expressly indicated that “each of the parties are hereby restored to the status of a single, unmarried person”, the fact remains that record availing in the civil registry of Mandaluyong City shows that petitioner was still married to his former wife, Lilybeth Reyes. Thus, should in the future the petitioner decide to remarry in the Philippines the legally required certificate of no marriage (CENOMAR) will not issue to him dashing his hope of living a legally recognized married life again; Name of Witness/es:

SO ORDERED. September 15, 2026, Mandaluyong City.

Petitioner himself will testify to establish the following facts:

(Sgd.) BENEDICT R. PICHAY III Presiding Judge

i.. Witness, an American citizen and member of the U.S. Air Force, and Lilybeth R. Nosce, then a Filipino citizen, married each other on October 15, 1987 in a civil ceremony held at Me TC of Mandaluyong City;

META CONNECT. DigiPlus Interactive Corp. attends Meta Connect 2026 in Menlo Park, California, on Sept. 23 to 24 at Meta’s invitation. Shown are DigiPlus chief executive Tommy Hu (left) and Meta’s head of global business group Nicola Mendelsohn. Hu represented DigiPlus as it explores ways to strengthen its digital capabilities, adopt world-class technologies and standards and advance its innovation and growth.

Tim Ho Wan buys out North America partner J By Jenniffer B. Austria

OLLIBEE Foods Corp.’s Tim Ho Wan has secured full ownership of its North American business after completing a partnership realignment with Japanese restaurant operator WDI Corp.

JFC said in a stock exchange disclosure Thursday that Tim Ho Wan acquired WDI’s 30 percent stake in the joint venture operating its North American platform for about $5.05 million. The transaction makes Tim Ho Wan the sole owner of the North American platform, allowing it to independently operate, develop and franchise the brand across the region. The chain currently has five locations in the United States, including three company-owned stores and two franchised outlets. It plans to expand primarily through

franchising, aiming to grow its U.S. store count to 20 by 2028. “North America is one of Tim Ho Wan’s most important growth markets, and taking full ownership of the platform gives us greater flexibility to invest in, expand and franchise the brand as we pursue its next phase of growth,” Tim Ho Wan Chief Executive Yeong Sheng Lee said. “With full ownership of our North America platform, we can move faster, invest with greater flexibility and expand the brand with a sharper focus on long-term value creation.” Simultaneously, WDI acquired Tim Ho Wan’s 30 percent interest in the Japan joint venture holding the brand’s franchise rights in the country for about 166.1 million yen (roughly $1 million). WDI now owns 100 percent of the franchise vehicle for Japan and will continue operating Tim Ho Wan as its franchise partner in the country. WDI currently operates four Tim Ho Wan stores in Japan—three in Tokyo and one in Osaka—including the brand’s flagship in Hibiya.

Copy Furnished: Addressee

Address

Atty. Jose P. Ventajar, LLM Counsel for the Petitioner

Ground Floor, Doña Elena Bldg., J. Miranda Ave., Naga City ventajarlawoffice@gmail.com

Jose Nesto Nosce y Reyes Petitioner

Block 10 Lot 16, Vesuvio St., Camella Heights, Barangay Cararayan, Naga City (Camarines Sur)

Lilybeth Respondent

Nosce

Unit 34K, Fifth Avenue, Plaza Condominium, 5th Avenue cor. 21st Drive, BGC, Taguig City

Local Civil Registry of Mandaluyong City Respondent

2nd Floor, Mandaluyong City Hall, Maysilo Circle, Brgy. Plainview, Mandaluyong City

Office of the Civil Registrar General/Philippine Statistics Authority Respondent

PSA Headquarters, PSA Complex, East Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines 1101

Office of the Solicitor General Counsel of the State

OSG Building, 134 Amorsolo St., Legazpi Village, Makati City 1229 Philippines

Mode of Service

1 Rules of Court, Rule 108, Section 4, Notice and publication. – Upon the filing of the petition, the court shall, by an order, fix the time and place for the hearing of the same, and cause reasonable notice thereof to be given to the persons named in the petition. The court shall also cause the order to be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the province. 2 ld. Section 5. Opposition. – The civil registrar and any person having or claiming any interest under the entry whose cancellation or correction is sought may, within fifteen (15) days from notice of the petition, or from the last date of publication of such notice, file his opposition thereto. 3 Supra notce 1. 4 2019 Revised Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 17, Section 3. Dismissal due to fault of plaintiff, - If no justifiable cause, the plaintiff fails to to appear on the date of presentation of his or her evidence in chief on the complaint, or to prosecute his or her action for unreasonable length of time, or to comply with these Rules or any order of the court, the complaint may be dismissed upon motion of the defendant or upon the court’s own motion, without prejudice to the right of the defendant to presecute his or her counterclaim in the same or in a separate action. This dismissal shall have the effect of an adjudication upon the merits, unless otherwise declared by the court.

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT National Capital Judicial Region Branch 210 Mandaluyong City,

IN RE: PETITION FOR JUDICIAL RECOGNITION OF FOREIGN DIVORCE DECREE AND FOR THE ANNOTATION/CORRECTION OF ENTRIES IN THE CIVIL REGISTRY RECORD OF MARRIAGE, JOSE NESTOR NOSCE y REYES, Petitioner, -versus-

SP CASE NO. R-MND-26-00952-SP

LILYBETH R. NOSCE, OFFICE OF THE CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR OF MANDALUYONG CITY, OFFICE OF THE SOLICITOR GENERAL and OFFICE OF THE CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL, PHILIPPINE STATISTICS AUTHORITY (PSA), Respondents. x-------------------------------------------------------x AMENDED PETITION PETITIONER, by counsel, unto this Honorable Court, most respectfully avers that: 1. Petitioner is of legal age, a citizen of the United States of America, single/divorced and with residence and postal address at Block 10, Lot 16, Vesuvio St., Camella Heights, Barangay Cararayan, Naga City (Camarines Sur), where he may be served with notices and other processes should the Honorable Court also require service to him; 2. Respondent, Lilybeth R. Nosce, if of legal age, a citizen of the United States of America, single/divorced and has as her last known address Unit 34K, Fifth Avenue Place Condominium, 5th Ave., Cor. 21st Drive, BGC, Taguig City 1625; respondent. Office of the Civil Registrar of Mandaluyong City is an office in the local government of the City of Mandaluyong, Philippines created under Republic Act 7160, also known as the Local Government Code of 1991, which has among its primary functions the recording and maintaining of vital civil status events like births, deaths, marriages and legal name changes occurring within its territorial jurisdiction. The respondent can be located at Mandaluyong City Hall, 315 Maysilo Circle, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, Philippines; respondent, Office of the Civil Registrar General (PSA), is herein Impleaded being the national government agency which provides overall-direction in the implementation of the Civil Registry Law and related issuances and exercises technical supervision over all civil registrars. It holds office at the PSA Headquarters, PSA Complex, East Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines 1101; and, respondent Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) is impleaded being the statutory counsel of the Republic of the Philippines. The OSG holds office in OSG Building, 134 Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City 1229 Philippines. The respondents may be served summons and other processes of the Honorable Court at their respective addresses. 3. On October 15, 1987, petitioner, a citizen of the United States of America (U.S.A.) and working there as member of the U.S. Air Force, married a certain LlLYBETH REYES, a Filipino Citizen,in a civil ceremony held at the Metropolitan Trial Court (MeTC) of

ii. That such marriage was recorded, and still subsisting up to the present, in the civil registry of Mandaluyong City; iii. After their marriage they lived together in the U.S., with Lilybeth R. Nosce working as a school teacher and there raised a family; iv. Sometime in 2002, the marital relationship between petitioner and Lilybeth R. Nosce went sour due to the latter’s decision not to go live with the petitioner in the Philippines after his retirement from the US Air Force leading to their separation in fact; v. Honestly believing that their marriage was already beyond repair after living separately with each other for a considerably long period of time, petitioner filed for divorce against his wife before the District Court, Clark County, Nevada some time in 2025 vi. The petition was granted and evidenced by a divorce decree dated March 16, 2026 which, among others, held that the parties therein are restored to their unmarried status and hence are capacitated to remarry; vii. He may also testify on matters relevant and/or material to the issue in the above-entitled case. WHEREFORE, it is most respectfully prayed of this Honorable Court that after notice and hearing judgment render granting the herein petition by declaring/ordering. to wit: 1. The judicial recognition of the divorce decree dated March 16, 2026 issued/promulgated by District Court Judge Mari D. Parlade of the District Court, Family Court, Clark County, Nevada. U.S.A.; 2 That petitioner Jose Nestor Reyes-Nosce is capacitated to marry under Philippine law; 3. That the respondents Office of the City Civil Registrar of Mandaluyong City and/or Office of the Civil Registrar General, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) effect the annotation in the marriage certificate of the petitioner of the judgment rendered by the Honorable Court recognizing the Divorce Decree dated May 16, 2026 Issued by the District Court Judge Mari D. Parlade of the District Court, Family Court. Clark County. Nevada, U.S.A. in Case No. D-25-719398-D entitled Jose Nestor R. Nosce vs. Lilybeth R. Nosce. . Other reliefs just and equitable under the premises are likewise prayed for. Naga City, (Camarines Sur), July 27, 2026.

(Sgd.) JOSE P. VENTAJAR, LLM. Counsel for the Petitioner Roll No. 41390; IBP OR No.INV583316, January 2, 2026 PTR NO.5971681 : January 5, 2026; MCLE Exemption No. IX-JMCTCr002348, Pursuant to Rule 7, Section 1 © of Bar Matter No. 850 and Section 5 © of the Implementing Regulations: Valid until April 14, 2031 Ground Floor, Doña Elena Bldg. J. Miranda Ave., Naga City ventalarlawoffice@gmail.com/ 09696282907 VERIFICATION & CERTIFICATION OF NON-FORUM SHOPPING I, JOSE NESTOR R. NOSCE, of legal age, single/divorced, after having been sworn according to law, hereby depose and state: That I am the petitioner in the above-entitled case for Recognition of Foreign Judgment/Divorce Decree, that the allegations contained therein are true and correct based on my personal knowledge and on authentic documents; that the complaint is not filed to harass, cause unnecessary delay, or needlessly increase the cost of litigation; and, that the factual allegations therein have evidentiary support or, if specifically so identified, will likewise have evidentiary support after a reasonable opportunity for discovery. I hereby certify that I have not commenced any other action involving the same issues in the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, or any other tribunal or agency and to the best of our knowledge, no such action or proceeding is pending in the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, or any other tribunal or agency; and that If I should thereafter learn that a similar action or proceeding had been filed in the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, or any other tribunal or agency, we undertake to report it to the Court within five days from my learning of it. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto affixed my signature this __ day of 0 6 AUG 2026 in the City of Naga (Camarines Sur), Philippines. (Sgd.) JOSE NESTOR R. NOSCE Affiant SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me in the City of Naga (Camarines Sur), Philippines, this 06 AUG 2026 with affiant exhibiting to me his USA passport no. A72509212 issued on Nov. 18, 2025.

Doc. No.718; Page No.65; Book No. II; Series of 2026

(MStandard - Oct. 2, 9, & 16, 2026)

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First Balfour Inc. and TÜV SÜD officials and employees join a group photo during the opening of their recertification and surveillance audit meeting recently.

First Balfour retains triple ISO certification for 24th year FIRST Balfour, the Lopez Group’s engineering and construction arm, has passed recertification and surveillance audits conducted by Germany-based independent certification body TÜV SÜD to verify compliance with International Organization for Standardization standards. The achievement marks the 24th consecutive year that First Balfour has earned and sustained a triple certification, demonstrating its commitment to operational excellence, environmental stewardship and workplace safety. Based in Geneva, the ISO is an independent, nongovernmental organization with members from more than 160 national standards bodies. It establishes international specifications to ensure products, services and systems are safe, reliable and high quality. TÜV SÜD, a provider of testing, inspection and certification services operating in more than 1,000 locations worldwide, conducted the audits in August 2026. The team evaluated First Balfour’s Upper Mahiao Road and Pad Development Project in Leyte on Aug. 10 and 11, followed by its head office in Manila on Aug. 26 and 27. The audit confirmed the alignment of First Balfour’s integrated management system with international standards across quality, environmental and occupational safety frameworks. Company leaders noted the outcome reflects an ongoing operational commitment rather than a routine compliance check. “External audit is not simply a compliance activity but an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, continual improvement and operational excellence,” quality manager Gilbert Rosales said. “This achievement reflects our collective dedication to the highest standards of quality, safety, and sustainability in everything we do.” Emil Estrabo, head of occupational safety and health, noted the achievement covers ISO 9001 recertification as well as surveillance audits for ISO 14001 and ISO 45001. “Our triple ISO certifications provide a clear and solid framework for managing how we deliver infrastructure projects and operate in our head office,” said Vicente De Lima, head of corporate sustainability. “Ongoing for 24 years and counting, our ISO journey is a part of our culture in First Balfour. Consistent daily repetition is what makes culture last.” First Balfour holds a Quadruple A license classification—the highest awarded by the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board. Founded in 1969, the company builds critical infrastructure across power and energy, transport, water and specialized buildings. It operates as a subsidiary of First Philippine Holdings Corp.

PH shares fall below 5,700 on inflation worries PHILIPPINE shares fell further below 5,700 Thursday, extending losses as investors weighed renewed inflation concerns and the prospect of tighter monetary policy. The peso also continued to slide against the U.S. dollar, closing at 62.775 from 62.64 on Wednesday. The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange Index dropped 50.01 points, or 0.88 percent, to 5,629.47. The broader all shares index declined 0.70 percent to 3,156.83. Bank of the Philippine Islands Lead Economist Emilio Neri said headline inflation could accelerate to 6.9 percent year over year in September from 6.1 percent in August. “If realized, this would end four consecutive months of easing and mark the highest reading since April’s 7.2 percent peak,” Neri said. Unlike April’s fuel-driven spike, Neri said the second wave is likely broader and stickier, driven by food, labor costs and other factors. He noted that higher inflation strengthens the case for further or possibly more aggressive tightening from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. All six sectoral indices ended lower. Services led the decline, falling 2.03 percent, followed by mining and oil, down 1.10 percent, and property, which shed 1.07 percent. Financials fell 0.52 percent, industrials declined 0.33 percent, and holding firms edged lower by 0.05 percent. Jenniffer B. Austria

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NTC tests telco service quality in Metro Manila By Darwin G. Amojelar

HE National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) on Thursday conducted joint quality-of-service (QoS) testing with mobile operators in Quezon City, San Juan, Pasig, Taguig and Mandaluyong to assess voice call and mobile broadband quality amid numerous consumer complaints about poor telco services.

NTC commissioner Ella Blanca Lopez and deputy commissioner Andres Castelar Jr. led the tests with representatives from Smart Communications, Globe Telecom and DITO Telecommunity. Lopez said the NTC conducted the testing to verify the actual quality of mobile services subscribers experience in areas where they have reported complaints. The tests covered voice calls and mobile broadband, allowing the NTC to gather actual network data and determine whether telcos meet the required standards. “The joint testing is part of the revalidation to determine if their services have improved after we issued the show-cause order against them and for transparency purposes,” Lopez said. She said, however, the NTC will conduct a separate revalidation in the areas specified in the show-cause order 2 weeks after the operators receive the order. The NTC has been monitoring telecommunications services and responding to

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) conducts joint quality-of-service (QoS) testing with mobile operators in Quezon City, San Juan, Pasig, Taguig and Mandaluyong to assess voice call and mobile broadband quality amid numerous consumer complaints about poor telco services.

Palawan moves to ban unlicensed, fake goods

subscriber complaints about weak signals, dropped calls, slow data connections and other service problems. Under the NTC’s performance audit guidelines in Memorandum Circular No. By Othel V. Campos 001-01-2026, cellular mobile service providers must meet strict standards on THE Palawan provincial governnetwork coverage, call quality, mobile ment is moving to adopt an Antidata speeds and consumer protection. Counterfeiting and Anti-Piracy For internet connectivity, telcos should policy to strengthen intellectual deliver a minimum average download Manila Manila property protection and create a speed of 50 Mbps and upload speedStandard of TODAY fake-free workplace across its loTODAY 10 Mbps through active stationary drive cal government units. testing. In a joint statement with the proUsers at the cell edge, or the outer vincial government, Intellectual boundary of a cell tower’s coverage, must Property Office of the Philippines also get download speeds of at least 10 director general Teodoro Pascua Mbps and upload speeds of at least 5 Mbps said LGUs play a key role in transbased on network simulations. lating national IP policies into acFor network accessibility and uptime, tion by promoting responsible IP operators should cover more than 95 practices among public employees percent of the population with a signal and local communities. strength of -109 dBm or better and keep “By putting in place a local total network downtime to no more than ACAP policy, Palawan can help 1 percent.

institutionalize responsible IP practices within its offices, promote a fake-free work environment and reinforce the importance of respecting IP rights,” Pascua said. ACAP policies raise awareness of counterfeiting and piracy while requiring government offices to comply with IP laws. This includes banning counterfeit goods on government premises and prohibiting unlicensed software on official equipment. Manila Manila IPOPHL and member agencies Standard TODAY TODAY of the National Committee on Intellectual Property Rights have been encouraging government entities to adopt ACAP policies. The initiative has been implemented by 38 LGUs nationwide.

Palawan officials committed to adopting the policy following IPOPHL’s annual IP workshop for law enforcement agents and public prosecutors in Puerto Princesa. Pascua also outlined plans to position Palawan as an emerging IP hub, including the potential establishment of an IP Satellite Office. Future programs will focus on creative industries, geographical indications, innovation, industrial design and copyright protection. IPOPHL emphasized the importance of safeguarding Palawan’s genetic resources, traditional knowledge and traditional cultural expressions, alongside efforts to map the province’s cultural landscape.

N NO OT T II C CE E Green GSM launches an all-electric taxi service in Northern Mindanao, expanding its mobility network to key areas in Misamis Oriental province and Cagayan de Oro City.

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Notice Notice is is hereby hereby given given that that HERMA HERMA SHIPPING SHIPPING AND AND TRANSPORT TRANSPORT CORPORATION CORPORATION with with office office address address at at 94 94 Sct. Sct. Rallos Rallos St., St., Sacred Sacred Heart, Heart, Quezon Quezon City, City, is is applying applying for for registration registration with with the the Board Board of of Investments Investments (BOI) (BOI) as as aa New New Domestic Domestic Shipping Shipping Operator (40 MB Oil Tanker Kasaysayan with Operator (40 MB Oil Tanker - Kasaysayan with 4,295 4,295 GT) GT) under under Tier Tier II (Modern (Modern Basic Basic Needs Needs -Infrastructure -- Water Transport) of Infrastructure and and Logistics Logistics Water Transport)YELLOW of CYAN MAGENTA B the the 2026 2026 Strategic Strategic Investment Investment Priority Priority Plan Plan (SIPP) (SIPP) pursuant pursuant to to RA RA No. No. 11534 11534 (CREATE (CREATE Act), Act), as as amended amended by by RA RA No. No. 12066. 12066. Any Any person person with with valid valid objection/s objection/s on on the the aboveabovementioned mentioned project project may may file file his/her his/her objection objection in in writing, under oath, with the BOI within three writing, under oath, with the BOI within three (3) (3) days days from from the the date date of of this this publication. publication. (SGD.) (SGD.) MARY MARY ANN ANN E. E. RAGANIT RAGANIT Director Director

Infrastructure Infrastructure and and Services Services Industries Industries Service Service

Green GSM electric taxi service goes to Cagayan de Oro City GREEN GSM has launched an allparts of Mindanao. electric taxi service in Northern MinThe company operates a 100-percent elecdanao, expanding its mobility nettric fleet of VinFast vehicles that offers quiet work to key areas in Misamis Oriental rides without tailpipe emissions. Its drivers provinceand Cagayan de Oro City. undergo training in driving skills, professional The service covers El Salvador, conduct and road safety. Fares are displayed Cagayan de Oro, Laguindingan, Aluthrough the app or the in-car meter. bijid and Opol. Passengers can book New users who register with Green GSM through the Green GSM app or cuswill receive 15 green points, equivalent to P15, tomer service hotline, or hail availwhich they can use for ride discounts. able vehicles on the street. The company said the expansion is expected The company said the operation is to support regional connectivity, create addiits first all-electric taxi service in the tional jobs for drivers and give passengers anregion and will cater to daily travel, other mobility option. intercity trips and airport transfers. Green GSM said it plans to expand its netGreen GSM global chief executive work further in the Philippines while keeping Pham Nhat Minh Hoang said the exits “5 green promises”: good cars, good drivpansion would widen the company’s ers, good prices, good experiences and good coverage while giving residents acfor the environment. Othel V. Campos cess to electric mobility at reasonable Career Opportunity in 3M Service Center APAC Inc. costs. Position title: Customer Issue Resolution Senior Analyst (Thai) “Expanding into Vacancy (1) Northern MindanJob Description: ao enables Green  Receive and log customer complaints through designated channels. GSM to increase  Analyze complaint details to determine root cause and required actions.  Coordinate with cross-functional teams (e.g., quality, operations, customer service) to investigate and resolve issues. our service cover Monitor customer accounts to identify overdue balances and initiate collection activities.  Communicate with customers to resolve billing issues and negotiate payment arrangements. age in a region with Qualification (Education, Experience, Professional License, Skills Certification, Specialized Training): strong potential,  A Bachelor level university/college degree is generally required. while giving more  At least 2 years in a Customer Issue Resolutions/Billing/Credit and Collection role.  Working knowledge of theories and practices, typically applied to one discipline within Customer Service (such as Account Management, residents access Customer Issue Resolution, Customer Inquiry Support, Customer Service Analytics). to electric mobil High Proficiency of the Thai language – Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening skills.  Ability to communicate in spoken and written English. ity with consistent  Demonstrated proficiency in coordinating tasks. service quality and Applications may be sent to: 3M GSC Philippines Talent Acquisition reasonable costs,” Email address: ph-gscrecruitment@mmm.com Hoang said. Company/ Employer Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position The launch folName: Khwanjai Thiannobphakhun Company Name: lows a trial opAddress: Kalayaan, Laguna 3M Service Center APAC Inc. eration that began Nationality: Thai Complete address: in late August. Intended period of employment: one (1) year 18 and 19th, Floors Bonifacio Stopover Corporate Center, E-Square Green GSM preInformation Technology Park Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City 1634 viously launched Nature of business: a domestic corporation engage in Shared Services. electric taxi ser3M Service Center APAC Inc. hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job vices in Metro 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 Bureau of Local Employment 6F First Intramuros BF Condominium Solana St. cor. A. Soriano Ave. Manila, Central Intramuros, Manila 1002. Visayas and other th

REPUBLIC REPUBLIC OF OF THE THE PHILIPPINES PHILIPPINES REGIONAL REGIONAL TRIAL TRIAL COURT COURT NATIONAL NATIONAL CAPITAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL JUDICIAL REGION REGION BRANCH BRANCH 102-QUEZON 102-QUEZON CITY CITY th th floor, Hall of Justice Annex Building, Quezon City Room 505, 5 Room 505, 5 floor, Hall of Justice Annex Building, Quezon City E-mail: E-mail: rtc2qzn102@judiciary.gov.ph/TeI.No. rtc2qzn102@judiciary.gov.ph/TeI.No. (02) (02) 8639-1607 8639-1607

Career CareerOpportunity OpportunityininHolcim HolcimPhilippines, Philippines,Inc. Inc. Position Position title: title: Plant Plant Manager Manager Vacancy Vacancy (1) (1) Job Job Description: Description:Plan, Plan, direct direct and and integrate integratemanufacturing manufacturing operations operations to to ensure ensure attainment attainment of of plant plant objectives. objectives. Qualification Qualification (Education, (Education, Experience, Experience, Professional Professional License, License, Skills Skills Certification, Certification, Specialized Specialized Training): Training): At At least least (15) (15) years’ years’ experience experienceininmanufacturing manufacturingindustry industrypreferably preferablyfrom fromaaheavy heavymanufacturing manufacturingindustry. industry.With Withaaproven proventrack trackrecord recordinin establishing establishingand and implementing implementingstrategies strategies and and directing directing plant plant operations. operations. Applications Applications may may be besent sent to: to: Name Name ofof Company Company HR: HR: Talent Talent Acquisition AcquisitionTeam Team Email Email address: address: recruitment-phl@holcim.com recruitment-phl@holcim.com

MELANIE MELANIE JIMENEZ JIMENEZ MONTEPALCO, MONTEPALCO, Petitioner, Petitioner, -versus-versus-

Civil Civil Case Case No. No. R-QZN-26-05083-CV R-QZN-26-05083-CV For: For: Declaration Declaration of of Nullity Nullity of of Marriage Marriage Under Under Article Article 36 36 of of the the Family Family Code Code

ROMEO ROMEO P. P. MONTEPALCO, MONTEPALCO, JR., JR., Respondent. Respondent. x--------------------------------------------------x x--------------------------------------------------x SUMMONS SUMMONS (by (by Publication) Publication)

Company/ Company/Employer Employer

Name Name of of foreign foreign national nationalintending intendingto toapply apply for for the the position position

Company Company Name: Name:

Name: Name:Kalai Kalai Selvan Selvan Mariappan Mariappan Address: Address:Bacnotan, Bacnotan, La La Union Union Nationality: Nationality: Indian Indian

TO: TO:

Intended Intended period periodof of employment: employment: two two (2) (2) year/s year/s

WHEREAS, WHEREAS, on on June June 8, 8, 2026, 2026, aa Petition Petition for for Declaration Declaration of of Nullity Nullity of of Marriage, Marriage, which which was was nd nd solemnized solemnized on on November November 9, 9, 1994 1994 at at 22 Fir., Fir., Quezon Quezon City City Hall Hall Building, Building, Eliptical Eliptical Road, Road, Quezon Quezon City, City, as as stated stated in in the the Certificate Certificate of of Marriage, Marriage, has has been been commenced commenced by by petitioner petitioner MELANIE MELANIE JIMENEZ JIMENEZ MONTEPALCO MONTEPALCO against against respondent respondent ROMEO ROMEO P. P. MONTEPALCO, MONTEPALCO, JR.; JR.;

Holcim Holcim Philippines, Philippines, Inc. Inc. Complete Complete address: address: Barangay BarangayQuirino, Quirino, Bacnotan, Bacnotan, La La Union Union 2515 2515 Nature Nature of of business: business:aa corporation corporation primarily primarily engaged engaged inin the the business business of of manufacture, manufacture, production production and and merchandising, merchandising, whether whether domestically domestically or or for for export export of of cement, cement,cement cement products products and and by by products, products, including including its its derivatives, derivatives, and and any any and and all all kinds kinds of ofminerals minerals and and building building materials materials

Holcim HolcimPhilippines, Philippines,Inc. Inc.hereby herebydeclares declaresthat thatthe theabove-named above-namedforeign foreignnational nationalisisable, able,willing, willing,and andqualified qualifiedto toperform performthe theservices services and and job job description description for for this this position. position. The The company company has has the the intention intention to to employ employ the the said said foreign foreign national national and and apply apply for for an an Alien Alien Employment Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Central Office DOLE Building, Muralla Wing Employment Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Central Office DOLE Building, Muralla Wingcorner corner General General Luna Luna Street, Street, Intramuros, Intramuros, Manila, Manila, 1002, 1002, Philippines. Philippines. IfIf there there are are any any objections objections or or inquiries, inquiries, please please contact contact the the concerned concernedDOLE DOLE Regional Regional Office. Office. Any Any Filipino Filipino jobseeker jobseeker who who isis competent, competent, able able and and willing willing to to perform perform the the services services for for which which the the foreign foreign national national isis intended intended to to be be hired hired for, for, may may file file an an objection objection at at Department Department of of Labor Labor and and Employment Employment (DOLE) (DOLE) Central Central Office Office DOLE DOLE Building, Building, Muralla Muralla Wing Wing corner corner General General Luna Luna Street, Street, Intramuros, Intramuros, Manila, Manila, 1002, 1002, Philippines Philippines Please Please inform inform Department Department of of Labor Labor and and Employment Employment (DOLE) (DOLE) Central Central Office, Office, ifif you you have have any any information information on on criminal criminal offenses offenses committed committed by bythe the foreign foreign national. national.

Career Career Opportunity Opportunity in in GLOBAL GLOBAL PLAY PLAY HUB HUB INNOVATIONS INNOVATIONS CORP. CORP. Position Position Title: Title: BUSINESS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT OFFICER OFFICER (2 (2 Vacant Vacant Positions) Positions) Job Job Description: Description:  finds finds new new growth growth chances, chances, builds builds client client ties, ties, and and helps helps raise raise company company income. income. They They study study market market trends, trends, look look for for new new leads, leads, and and make make business business plans plans to to reach reach long-term long-term company company goals. goals. Job Job Qualifications: Qualifications:  Must Must be be 18-50 18-50 years years old old  Good Good Organizational Organizational Skills Skills  Proficient Proficient In In Relevant Relevant Computer Computer Applications Applications  Bilingual Bilingual in in Mandarin Mandarin and and English English

Company/ Company/ Employer Employer

Applications Applications may may be be sent sent to: to: globalplayhubinnovationscorp@gmail.com globalplayhubinnovationscorp@gmail.com

Company Company Name: Name: GLOBAL GLOBAL PLAY PLAY HUB HUB INNOVATIONS INNOVATIONS CORP. CORP.

1. 1.

Company Company Address: Address: 2nd 2nd Floor, Floor, Block Block 3, 3, Bonifacio Bonifacio High High Street Street East, East, Bonifacio Bonifacio Global Global City, City, Fort Fort Bonifacio, Bonifacio, Taguig Taguig City City 2. Nature Nature of of Business: Business: 2. Computer Computer Programming, Programming, Consultancy Consultancy and and Related Related Activities Activities

Name Nameof ofForeign ForeignNational Nationalintending intendingto toapply apply for forthe the position position

1. 1. Name: Name: ARCANGEL ARCANGEL KEVIN KEVIN BRYAN BRYAN KAW KAW A.K.A. A.K.A. HUANG HUANG CHENG-AN CHENG-AN Address: 1426 2B ALEGRE ST., BAMBANG, Address: 1426 2B ALEGRE ST., BAMBANG, TONDO, TONDO, MANILA MANILA Nationality: Nationality: TAIWANESE TAIWANESE Intended Intended period period of of employment: employment: 22 YEARS YEARS

2. 2. Name: Name: CHANG CHANG CHIU-HSIANG CHIU-HSIANG Address: Address: 23G 23G SIGNA SIGNA DESIGNER DESIGNER RESIDENCES, RESIDENCES, VALERO VALERO ST. ST. BEL-AIR BEL-AIR MAKATI MAKATI CITY CITY Nationality: Nationality: TAIWANESE TAIWANESE Intended Intended period period of of employment: employment: 22 YEARS YEARS Global Global Play Play Hub Hub Innovations Innovations Corp. Corp. hereby hereby declares declares that that the the above-mentioned above-mentioned foreign foreign national national isis able, able, willing, willing, and and qualified qualified to to perform perform the the services services and and job job description description for for this this position. position. The The company company has has the the intention intention to to employ employ the the said said foreign foreign national national and and apply apply for for an an Alien Alien Employment Employment Permit Permit with with the the th Department Department of of Labor Labor and and EmploymentEmployment- Bureau Bureau of of Local Local Employment Employment located located at at 66th Floor, Floor, BF BF Condominium Condominium Solana Solana St., St., Intramuros Intramuros Manila. Manila.

ROMEO ROMEO P. P. MONTEPALCO, MONTEPALCO, JR. JR. Brgy. Brgy. Binmeckeg, Binmeckeg, Sison, Sison, Pangasinan Pangasinan

WHEREAS, WHEREAS, on on July July 1, 1, 2026, 2026, petitioner petitioner filed filed aa “Manifestation “Manifestation with with Motion Motion for for leave leave of of Court Court to to Serve Serve Summons Summons by by Publication” Publication” praying praying that that summons summons for for respondent be effected by publication considering respondent be effected by publication considering that that she she can can no no longer longer locate locate the the respondent respondent despite despite earnest earnest efforts. efforts. WHEREAS, WHEREAS, on on July July 13, 13, 2026, 2026, this this Court Court issued issued an an Order Order granting granting the the issuance issuance of of summons summons by by publication publication upon upon respondent respondent once once aa week week for for two two consecutive consecutive weeks weeks in in aa newspaper newspaper of of general general circulation circulation in in the the Philippines Philippines and and to to serve serve the the summons summons to to the the respondent respondent in in his his last last known known address address by by registered registered mail mail at at Brgy. Brgy. Binmeckeg, Binmeckeg, Sison, Sison, Pangasinan. Pangasinan. WHEREAS, WHEREAS, in in the the petition, petition, the the reliefs reliefs prayed prayed for for is is hereby hereby quoted quoted as as follows: follows: “WHEREFORE, “WHEREFORE, in in view view of of the the foregoing foregoing premises, premises, itit is is most most respectfully respectfully prayed prayed for for unto unto this this Honorable Honorable Court Court that that the the marriage marriage of of Melanie Melanie Jimenez Jimenez Montepalco Montepalco with with Romeo Romeo P. P. Montepalco, Montepalco, Jr. Jr. be be DECLARED DECLARED NULL NULL AND AND VOID,” VOID,” NOW NOW THEREFORE, THEREFORE, YOU, YOU, respondent respondent ROMEO ROMEO P. P. MONTEPALCO, MONTEPALCO, JR, JR, ARE ARE HEREBY HEREBY SUMMONED SUMMONED AND AND REQUIRED REQUIRED within within thirty thirty (30) (30) days days from from the the last last issue issue of of publication, publication, to to file file your your verified verified ANSWER ANSWER to to the the petition petition with with this this court court at at Room Room 505, 505, 55thth floor, floor, Hall Hall of of Justice Justice (Annex), (Annex), Quezon Quezon City. City. You You shall shall furnish furnish petitioner petitioner with with aa copy copy of of your your ANSWER ANSWER within within the the same same period. period. IfIf you you fail to answer within the required period, petitioner shall fail to answer within the required period, petitioner shall take take action action as as authorized authorized under under the the Rules Rules of of Court Court and and ask ask from from the the court court the the reliefs reliefs applied applied for. for. WHEREFORE, WHEREFORE, let let this this summons summons be be published published once once aa week week for for two two (2) (2) consecutive consecutive weeks weeks in in aa newspaper newspaper of of general general in in the the Philippines, Philippines, at at the the expense expense of of the the petitioner. petitioner. Likewise, Likewise, let let aa copy copy of of the the summons summons be be sent sent by registered mail to the respondent at his last known by registered mail to the respondent at his last known address, address, also also at at the the expense expense of of petitioner, petitioner, and and to to submit submit to to this this Court Court proof proof of of compliance compliance therewith. therewith. 11 WITNESS the WITNESS the HON. HON. MICHAEL MICHAEL KEN KEN R. R. DE DE JESUS, JESUS, Presiding Presiding Judge Judge of of this this Court, Court, this this July July 13, 13, 2026 2026 in in Quezon Quezon City. City.

(Sgd.) (Sgd.) ATTY. ATTY. JANNELLE JANNELLE J. J. TUASON-LIM TUASON-LIM Branch Branch Clerk Clerk of of Court Court (MStandard (MStandard -- Oct. Oct. 22 && 9, 9, 2026) 2026)

CYAN CYAN MAGENTA MAGENTA YELLOW YELLOW BLACK BLACK

BUSINESS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

Workers told to prepare for AI By Thony Rose Lesaca

HE Philippines should modernize its infrastructure, shift businesses toward higher-value services and equip its workforce for an artificial intelligencedriven economy to sustain long-term growth and quality jobs, Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said. “The central question is whether expanding services trade can generate productivity growth across the economy and good jobs for a much wider group of workers and firms,” Balisacan said at the Regional Conference on Trade in Services for Development (TS4D) in Asia and the Pacific. The services sector accounted

ERC, NGCP sign deal to end years of fee litigation By Alena Mae S. Flores THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) signed a compromise agreement on Thursday to end years of litigation over whether the transmission operator should pay agency-imposed permit fees and annual supervision and regulation fees. ERC chairman and chief executive Francis Saturnino Juan and NGCP president and chief executive Anthony Almeda led the signing at the ERC’s headquarters in Pasig City. It coincided with a courtesy visit by NGCP leadership headed by businessman Henry Sy Jr. Under the settlement, NGCP recognizes the permit and supervision fees as valid regulatory assessments under the commission’s statutory mandate and agrees to stop contesting their characterization in the covered cases. Fees NGCP has already remitted, including those paid under protest, will satisfy its obligations in those cases. Collected fees, both past remittances and future assessments, will go to the National Treasury to fund national government programs and basic social services. The ERC and NGCP will submit the agreement to the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals for approval within 30 days. “For years, this dispute stood in the way of a clear and settled understanding between the ERC and NGCP on the nature of these fees,” Juan said. “This compromise agreement finally puts that question to rest, in a manner that respects the ERC’s mandate, gives NGCP the certainty it has sought, and ensures that the public benefits through funds that will now flow to the National Treasury. It is the kind of harmony we want to see between regulator and regulated: one built on clarity, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to the public interest,” Juan said.

for nearly two-thirds of gross domestic product in 2025 and the first half of 2026, said Balisacan, the government’s chief economist. The Information Technology and Business Process Management (ITBPM) industry generated more than $40 billion in revenue and employed 1.9 million workers in 2025.

Balisacan said structural bottlenecks in the sector should be addressed. Citing the World Bank’s 2025 Philippines Country Growth and Jobs Report, he said three of every four jobs created since 2010 were in non-tradable activities. Services productivity grew 26 percent between 2006 and 2019, compared with 53 percent in manufacturing. “IT-BPM is a notable export success, but it cannot, by itself, raise productivity throughout the much larger services economy,” Balisacan said. He said better digital connectivity, transport and logistics, financial services and other businesssupport services are essential to raising productivity and helping firms join regional and global value chains. Balisacan also said workers and firms need help adapting as AI

reshapes the services sector. “Exposure to AI is not the same as inevitable job loss,” he said, adding that AI’s impact will depend on how firms adopt the technology, how workers are prepared and whether higher-value activities can expand as existing tasks evolve. The conference builds on the TS4D initiative launched by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the World Bank in September 2024. It highlighted the Philippines’ growing role as a regional hub for servicesled growth, job creation and global integration. “Let us use the evidence and experiences shared to build more competitive firms, more capable workers, and economies in which the gains reach well beyond a few successful exporters,” he said.

PUBLIC SERVANT.

Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza is named Public Servant of the Year at the CEO Awards 2026 on Aug. 27, 2026, at the Embassy of Indonesia in Makati City. Organized by InCharge Magazine and TAG Media Group, the annual awards recognize leaders from government, business, and other sectors for their contributions to their respective fields.

PH net external liability widened to $65.6b in Q2 THE Philippines’ international investment position widened 19.2 percent to a net external liability of $65.6 billion as of end-June 2026 from $55.0 billion in the previous quarter, as the national government, banks and other sectors borrowed more from other countries, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Wednesday. The net external liability equaled 13.4 percent of gross domestic product, up from 11.2 percent in the first quarter of 2026. The BSP attributed the wider position to higher external borrowings by banks and other sectors and to additional financing the government secured from multilateral and bilateral creditors. Intercompany borrowings also increased net direct investment-debt liabilities, while the government’s latest global bond issuance in June raised net liabilities in debt securities. “A decline in reserve assets, together with reduced holdings of deposits abroad by banks, further widened the net external liability position. This was partly offset by a stronger net direct investment – equity position, driven mainly by upward price revaluations of residents’ equity investments in foreign affiliates,” the BSP said. Total external financial assets slipped 0.2 percent to $259.3 billion from $259.9 billion in the previous quarter, while external financial liabilities rose 3.1 percent to $324.9 billion from $315.0 billion. The BSP said maturities of external liabilities remained predominantly long-term, which helps limit nearterm refinancing risks. The BSP uses the international investment position as a key indicator of the country’s external vulnerability and financial stability, as it shows how much the Philippines owns and owes to the rest of the world. Thony Rose Lesaca

Luzon Economic Corridor seen driving new settlements outside Metro Manila By Othel V. Campos THE Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) is expected to create opportunities for new human settlements as industrial and technology investments generate demand for housing, infrastructure and supporting services outside Metro Manila, a property industry group said. Chamber of Real Estate and Builders’ Associations Inc. (CREBA) president Noel Cariño said less than 6 percent of the country’s total landmass is used for human settlements, leaving substantial room for planned urban expansion. Cariño said developing new settlements requires government investment in roads, transportation, health facilities and other basic infrastructure to attract both businesses and residents. “First, infrastructure, road network,” Cariño said on the sidelines of a partnership agreement signing for the CREBA National Convention 2026, to be held in Cebu. He said developers should build in-

DA, SRA deploy drones to watch sugar infestation

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) and Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) have deployed financial assistance, chemical controls, drones and biological measures against redstriped soft scale insect (RSSI) infestation, particularly in the Visayas, as the government steps up efforts to protect the sugar industry from mounting production pressures. The sector also faces drought risks, rising production costs and growing competition from artificial sweeteners, prompting sugar groups to seek policy changes to protect demand for locally produced cane sugar. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. tasked the DA and SRA to lead efforts to address the industry’s concerns, with First Lady Liza AranetaMarcos helping coordinate stakeholders. Tiu Laurel said the First Lady’s visit to Negros, where she met farmers, workers, industry groups and government officials, helped bring stakeholders together and laid the groundwork for the Sugar Industry Pest and Disaster Management Task Force. “We need to support our local sugar industry with assistance, but also with the right policies and legislation that will allow our farmers and the industry to remain productive and competitive. The current DA/SRA cooperation has continually come out with new policies in this regard,” Tiu Laurel said. Othel V. Campos

JTI opens P2-b DIET plant in Batangas

JAPAN Tobacco International Asia Manufacturing Corp. (JTIAMC) has opened a P2-billion dry ice expanded tobacco (DIET) plant at the LIMA Estate in Malvar, Batangas. The 2,006-square-meter facility uses liquid carbon dioxide to prepare tobacco raw materials for manufacturing, a process designed to improve consistency and efficiency. It is JTI’s first DIET plant in the region and adds to the company’s manufacturing capabilities in the Philippines as it expands its use of advanced

dustrial zones alongside residential communities to create new economic hubs and ease congestion in Metro Manila, where jobs remain concentrated. CREBA supports the LEC, he said, citing the corridor’s potential to attract data centers, artificial intelligence and other technology-driven industries that could generate new demand for housing and related developments. “We see LEC as a positive development because we also know that that’s going to be a major industry in the future,” Cariño said. The group expects businesses along the corridor to need housing, new commercial areas, infrastructure and complete communities for workers and their families. Cariño said the government should take an enabling approach to development, particularly by providing infrastructure and making land available for productive use. He cited Clark as an area with large tracts of land that could support further development.

IN BRIEF production technologies. Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) director-general Tereso Panga led government officials at the plant inauguration on Sept 23, 2026, underscoring the facility’s role in strengthening the Philippines’ participation in the global tobacco value chain. Panga said PEZA views the success of its investors as important to sustaining jobs, exports and other economic opportunities in the country. “As we always say to our investors, we have a stake in your success because if you are happy with your experience, that only means you will continue to reinvest in the Philippines, which enables us to sustain jobs, exports, and other economic opportunities in the country,” Panga said. Othel V. Campos

PAL to resume Saipan flights

PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) said Thursday it will resume nonstop flights between Manila and Saipan on Oct. 25, 2026. The restored route will strengthen tourism, family and commercial ties between the Philippines and the Northern Mariana Islands, PAL said. PAL earlier announced plans to launch nonstop flights from Manila to Delhi and Mumbai in December. Manila-Delhi flights will operate 3 times a week, every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. PAL will fly 4 weekly ManilaMumbai flights, every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. PAL will operate both routes with its 168-seat Airbus A321neo, configured with 12 lie-flat Business Class seats and 156 Economy Class seats. PAL operates scheduled nonstop flights from its Manila and Cebu hubs to 29 destinations in the Philippines and 40 across Asia, North America, Australia and the Middle East. Darwin G. Amojelar

ELECTRIC SCOOTER. TVS Motor Company unveils its flagship TVS iQube electric scooter in the Philippines during Wheeltek’s 50th anniversary exhibition at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City on Sept. 27, 2026. Aimed at expanding the Indian manufacturer’s footprint across ASEAN, the smart urban commuter features a 4.6-kW peak motor, a 7-inch TFT smart display and a 5-year battery warranty. Norman Cruz

Pryce exits pharmaceutical business with transfer of P7.5-m stake to PGI PRYCE Corp. exited the pharmaceutical sector after transferring its entire stake in Pryce Pharmaceuticals Inc. to PGI Retirement Fund Inc. for P7.5 million, the company said Wednesday in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange. Pryce signed an agreement to drop the pharmaceutical products segment from its core group of companies “in its effort to streamline its business operations,” it said. Under the agreement, Pryce transferred 7.5 million common shares of Pryce Pharmaceuticals, with a par value of P1 apiece, to the retirement fund through a deed of assignment. Pryce’s board approved the transaction at a special meeting on Sept. 30. The board of PGI Retirement Fund Inc. approved the acquisition at the same time. Pryce is a publicly-listed holding

company engaged in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) distribution under the PryceGas brand, real estate development and industrial gas manufacturing. The exit allows the company to concentrate capital and managerial resources on its primary operational sectors, it said. Net income remained flat at P1.93 billion in the first half of the year compared with the same period in 2025. Consolidated revenues in the first six months rose 3.57 percent to P11.72 billion from P11.31 billion a year ago, despite headwinds from the Middle East crisis. Growth was led by the core LPG business, where revenues increased 8.71 percent to P10.65 billion from P9.79 billion in the first half of 2025. Alena Mae S. Flores

TRANSPORT

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com Darwin G. Amojelar, Issue Editor

DOTr honors retiring, long-serving MIAA employees

Gov’t sees faster link to the north by end-2027 C OMMUTERS traveling between Metro Manila and Central Luzon could soon see their journey times significantly reduced, as the first section of the North-South Commuter Railway Extension (NSCREx) remains on track to begin partial operations by end-2027.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said it is targeting partial operations of the first 28-kilometer segment between Valenzuela and Malolos, covering seven stations. Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan and DOTr assistant secretary for right-of-way Acquisition for rail and road Irish Calaguas led the inspection of the project on September 29, 2026. Contract Package N-04, which includes the Clark Station, posted 87.34% overall progress as of August 2026, according to the DOTr. The package covers around 6.5 kilometers of railway track structure and includes the country’s first modern underground railway station at Clark International Airport. The Clark Station itself was 73.29% complete as of August. The contract package also includes an elevated viaduct and bridges, an underground tunnel leading directly to the airport station and at-grade access to the main NSCR depot. Batan said the government remains on track to begin partial NSCR operations by the end of 2027, covering seven stations between Valenzuela and Malolos. “Currently, we are on track for our first partial operations by the end of 2027. That’s the first 28 kilometers,

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto described the 147-kilometer NSCR as a major logistics infrastructure project

seven stations, from Valenzuela to Malolos,” Batan said. The government is targeting the completion of an additional 53 kilometers from Malolos to Clark by the second half of 2028, he added. “One of the first segments that will be finished is this Clark Station going to Angeles City,” Batan said. Batan also highlighted the planned airport express service, which will connect Clark International Airport to Metro Manila. The government is acquiring 51 eight-car trainsets for the NSCR, including seven airport express trains capable of speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour. The airport express service is targeted to connect Clark International Airport to Makati in 55 minutes on a nonstop journey, Batan said. The Clark segment is expected to strengthen connectivity between the airport, Central Luzon and Metro Manila while supporting the development of the broader Luzon Economic Corridor. Recto described the 147-kilometer NSCR as a major logistics infrastructure project that could support manufacturing and other economic activities along the corridor. He said improved rail connectivity

could help expand manufacturing capacity, including semiconductor activities in Clark and other parts of the Luzon Economic Corridor. Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez cited the need for close coordination among the DOTr, contractors, consultants, local government units and other stakeholders to address construction and right-of-way issues. He said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed agencies to ensure the project is completed. “This is not simply for DOTr, this is not simply for our Cabalens or kababayans, but this is for the entire Filipino people,” Lopez said. “We need our contractors, consultants, and DOTr to work in lockstep with our LGUs and local leaders. Strong LGU collaboration is vital in resolving site challenges smoothly, ensuring local community support, and keeping construction unhindered from start to finish,” he said. Once completed, the NSCR-Ex is expected to provide a faster and more reliable rail connection across Central Luzon and Metro Manila, while helping reduce road congestion and commuting costs. Darwin G. Amojelar

LRT-2 Pamilya Pass draws 77.6K beneficiaries in September THE Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) recorded 77,667 passengers benefiting from its LRT Line 2 Pamilya Pass 1+3 Program during the four Sundays of September 2026, reflecting sustained participation in the initiative that allows families and companions to travel together at lower cost. The program recorded 16,741 beneficiaries on September 6, 20,859 on September 13, 20,432 on September 20, and 19,635 on September 27, based on the total number of coupons issued. The September figure was slightly higher than the 77,308 beneficiaries recorded in August, indicating continued patronage of the program among families and groups traveling on Sundays. Under the Pamilya Pass 1+3 Program, one paying adult may bring up to three family members or companions to ride the LRT-2 for free every Sunday. The initiative is intended to make public transportation more affordable while encouraging families and friends to travel together.

Passengers can avail themselves of the Pamilya Pass every Sunday by purchasing one regular-fare ticket at any ticket booth in LRT-1, LRT2, or MRT-3 stations. They then receive coupons allowing up to three companions traveling to the same destination to ride the LRT-2 for free. Meanwhile, the LRTA has completed its September safety inspections of LRT-2 stations, the depot and maintenance facilities as part of its continuing efforts to ensure safe and reliable railway operations. The inspections covered facility conditions, safety systems, emergency facilities and operational equipment. Safety personnel checked fire exits, emergency lighting, access areas and other safety provisions to ensure that they were clearly identified, accessible and functional. Maintenance equipment and other essential operational resources were also assessed for availability and serviceability. Any deficiencies identified during the inspections were documented and referred to the concerned offices for appropriate corrective or preventive action.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez

A special salute to our long-serving team members. Join us in celebrating our dedicated employees marking 10, 15, 25, and 35 years of service, recognized at this year’s official awarding ceremony.

TRANSPORTATION Secretary Giovanni Lopez led the recognition of retiring and long-serving employees of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) during the agency’s Civil Service Awards held recently at the Sequoia Hotel in Pasay City. Lopez expressed his deep gratitude to the loyalty awardees and retirees for their years of dedicated service to the Authority. “We extend our deepest gratitude to our loyalty awardees and retirees. We thank you for your decades of service. May you continue to serve as an inspiration to the MIAA colleagues you leave behind,” Lopez said. “To the awardees—especially the loyalty awardees—I thank you for your service, and I hope you never tire of serving our fellow citizens, particularly the passengers and tourists at our airport,” he added. The program honored MIAA personnel who reached the mandatory and optional retirement age in 2026, as

well as employees who have rendered 20, 30, and 40 years of continuous service with the Authority. Employees marking 10, 15, 25, and 35 years of service were likewise recognized during the awarding ceremony. Among those recognized were retirees from the General Manager’s Office, Finance and Administration, Operations, Engineering, and Security and Emergency Services divisions. MIAA General Manager Eric Ines also expressed the Authority’s appreciation to the retirees and awardees, urging them to remain guided by their Oath of Office. “Always remember that your contribution is not merely the Oath of Office. If you take that to heart, nothing can go wrong,” Ines said. “Let us continue to serve with integrity, professionalism, compassion, and excellence. Today, we honor the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future,” he added.

Aboitiz InfraCapital First Vice President and Head of Corporate Affairs Christopher Camba and AIC Airports Head of Tourism and Destination Marketing Blessie Cruz meet with Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle “Aris” Aumentado and tourism industry stakeholders to discuss opportunities to strengthen the province’s tourism sector, connectivity, and destination development

Aboitiz InfraCapital, Bohol partners seek to strengthen tourism ABOITIZ InfraCapital, Inc. (AIC) is working with the Provincial Government of Bohol and the Bohol Tourism Council to support efforts to strengthen the province’s tourism industry and identify opportunities to expand its tourism products, markets and connectivity. The collaboration is aligned with the tourism priorities of Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado and aims to bring together the provincial government, tourism industry and private sector in developing the province as a destination. The partnership was discussed during a recent meeting involving AIC First Vice President and Head of Corporate Affairs Christopher Camba, AIC Airports Head of Tourism and Destination Marketing Blessie Cruz, and provincial government and tourism industry representatives. The discussions focused on strengthening tourism products, improving destination visibility, developing new markets and enhancing connectivity. For AIC Airports, the collaboration builds on the role of Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) as a key gateway supporting the province’s tourism

and connectivity priorities. BPIA is operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corporation (ABAC). “Bohol has a clear tourism agenda, and our role is to work alongside the Provincial Government and the tourism industry to support those priorities through connectivity and the airport,” Camba said. “We are looking at where BPIA can help support the province’s plans, from strengthening air access to key domestic destinations to working with our partners on opportunities for international connectivity,” he added. Cruz said connectivity initiatives should be aligned with the needs of the destination and the tourism experiences Bohol wants to offer visitors. “For us, it is important that connectivity discussions are grounded in what the destination needs,” Cruz said. “By working with the Province, the Bohol Tourism Council, tourism organizations, and airline partners, we can better align opportunities in air connectivity with the experiences and tourism products that Bohol wants to offer,” she added.

SHOWBIZ

C2 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026

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

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

CinePanalo champions stories that break the mold

ONO No Aware and Limlim emerged as the top winners at the third Puregold CinePanalo festival, taking the major awards in the full-length and student shorts categories as the competition showcased a wider range of unconventional Filipino stories. The Japan-set Mono No Aware dominated the full-length category with nine awards, including Pinakapanalong Pelikula, Panalo sa International Jury, Panalong Direktor for BC Amparado, and Panalong Aktor for Juan Karlos Labajo. Limlim, meanwhile, won Pinakapanalong Maikling Pelikula after a closely fought student shorts competition with Kun Hain, Bisan Diin., with both films taking four awards each. This year’s films make the festival arguably its most adventurous edition yet. They move beyond familiar formulas, giving space to underserved communities, the LGBT community, stories of courage, and people with disabilities, while tackling subjects that can be uncomfortable, unconventional, and rarely seen on the big screen. Mono No Aware also won Best Ensemble, Cinematography for TM Malones, Editing for Edmund Telmo, Sound Design for Willie Apa Jr. and Panalong Pangalawang Aktres for Momoko Kobayashi. Apol of My Ai, Multwoh (Patay na Patay Sa’yo) and Patay Gutom each collected four awards, while Stuck on You took home two. Among the notable acting wins was Xyriel Manabat, who received Panalong Aktres for her comedic performance in Stuck on You. Young Zion Cruz won Panalong Child Performer for Apol of My Ai, while Zanjoe Marudo received Panalong Pangalawang Aktor for the same film. The student shorts competition was just as closely fought. Samantha Palaje and Jomarie Corro-Reyes shared the Panalong Direktor prize for Limlim and Kun Hain, Bisan Diin., respectively. The awards suggest a festival increasingly willing to reward films that take a detour from familiar storytelling. Puregold CinePanalo festival chair Ivy Hayagan-Piedad said the festival aims to support Filipino filmmakers whose work brings new perspectives

Filmmaker BC Amparado (center) of ‘Mono No Aware’ is this year’s Puregold CinePanalo festival Panalong Direktor winner

Xyriel Manabat takes home the prestigious Panalong Aktres award for her comedic portrayal in the film ‘Stuck on You’

Zion Cruz bags the prestigious Panalong Child Performer award for the film ‘Apol of My Ai’

The third Puregold CinePanalo festival celebrates films that explore unconventional perspectives and stories from communities rarely represented on the big screen

Pageant Concept Eton Concepcion

THE Philippines won its third consecutive international crown in just one week after Ma. Andrea Endicio was named Miss Polo Universe 2026 during the grand finale held at the Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan Dubai Convention Centre in Dubai, UAE, on Saturday (Sunday in Manila).

GMA Network’s digital platforms continue to extend the reach of its Filipino programming

Which Philippine online portal is leading the country’s media race? GMA Network’s official website ranked No. 1 among local news and media publishers in the Philippines in August, according to Similarweb’s Top Websites country ranking. GMANetwork.com ranked No. 68 overall in the Philippines, ahead of Inquirer.net at No. 72, ABS-CBN at No. 132, Philstar.com at No. 183 and Rappler at No. 267, according to the company’s report. GMA Network also retained the No. 17 spot in Tubular Labs’ Worldwide Leadership Ranking for August. The network said the ranking maintained its position as the highest-ranked Philippine media company in Southeast Asia under Tubular Labs’ Media and

Entertainment category. Its official online platforms generated more than 6.35 billion video views in August, including 3.4 billion on Facebook, 1.2 billion on TikTok, 1 billion on Instagram and 726.7 million on YouTube. The figures add to GMA Network’s strong digital performance in recent months. In July, the network also ranked No. 17 worldwide in Tubular Labs’ ranking, recording more than 7.64 billion video views across its official online platforms. GMA Network said its digital strategy continues to focus on producing content across multiple platforms to reach audiences in the Philippines and abroad.

Ma. Andrea Endicio of Candelaria, Quezon, makes pageant history in Dubai after being crowned Miss Polo Universe 2026

‘Ang Huling Banlaw ni Susan’ star Jonalyn Mateo (second from right) wins the Panalong Aktres award in Student Shorts category

to Philippine cinema. “Each year, we gather to honor the brave artistry and passion of Filipino filmmakers who continue to make a statement in Philippine cinema,” she said. “We proudly celebrate their achievements and we will continue to push this new voice and new perspective that move, inspire, and resonate with our panalo cinema audience.” The festival runs through Oct. 4 at Gateway Cineplex 18, TriNoma, Fairview Terraces, Ayala Malls Feliz, Ayala Malls Circuit, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, and Market! Market! Regular tickets cost

P250, while PWDs, senior citizens, students, national athletes, and Aling Puring and Puregold Perks cardholders can purchase tickets for P200. A P2,000 festival pass gives audiences access to all seven full-length films and four sets featuring the festival’s 19 student shorts. Perhaps the real challenge now is getting these films beyond the festival circuit. CinePanalo has shown that Filipino filmmakers have stories to tell outside the usual template. The next step is making sure audiences around the country get the chance to see them.

Candelaria lass conquers Miss Polo Universe in Dubai

Endicio, who was crowned by Miss Polo Universe 2025 Esther Camacho Cardenas, followed the victories of Top Model of Universe 2026 Merianne Gabrielle Dekit and Miss Elite 2026 Sophia Bianca Santos. Endicio also bagged several special awards, including Miss Photogenic, Best Production Number, Best in Evening Gown and Best in National Costume (a Pearl-of-theOrient-inspired white dress designed by Earl Justine Talucod). Named Miss Polo Universe Global 2026 (first runner-up) was Queen Dulce Garza of Riviera Maya, while Ananya Raj of India was named Miss Polo Universe Asia 2026, and Fredmariel Angelu Adan of FilCom-UAE was named Miss Polo Universe Middle East 2026. The 26-year-old Endicio, a licensed pharmacist from Candelaria, Quezon, was appointed Miss Polo Universe Philippines 2026 by the Mutya ng Pilipinas and Miss Polo Universe Philippines organizations, headed by Cory Quirino, while reigning as Mutya ng Pilipinas Tourism International 2025. “The Philippines proudly celebrates its first-ever Miss Polo Universe crown, with Andrea making history

Endicio’s Miss Polo Universe victory came with several special awards, including Miss Photogenic, Best Production Number, Best in Evening Gown and Best in National Costume

as the 2nd Edition Miss Polo Universe 2026. A defining moment for Philippine pageantry and a victory that will be remembered. Congratulations, Queen Andrea,” the Mutya ng Pilipinas Organization posted on Facebook. Miss Polo Universe, a nonswimsuit beauty pageant, is a global platform dedicated to empowering women from all backgrounds through leadership training, cultural exchange and international exposure, and inspiring young women to become confident ambassadors of change. The Miss Polo Universe 2026 coronation was hosted by Queen of Universe Tourism 2025 Louise Kerr and Joel Lara of Joel Lara Exclusives, the longest-running Filipino talk show in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

SHOWBIZ

OU must have seen that clip of surviving Nirvana members accepting an award for their legacy at the MTV Video Music Awards on Sept. 27.

Shannon Sizon reveals family ordeal behind decision to pursue law By Jasper Valdez

The trophy, the Video Vanguard Award, recognized the distinctive, influential music videos their group made to help promote their songs, most notably the one for “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” which they, or the night’s group spokesperson Krist Novoselic, described as a “dystopian pep rally with anarchist cheerleaders.” From left: Dave Grohl, Krist Novoselic, and Pat Smear of Nirvana pay tribute to the late Kurt Cobain at MTV VMAs

Touchbass

Yugel Losorata

Why Nirvana’s Video Vanguard speech goes viral Novoselic’s acceptance speech was powerful and appropriate in many ways. He was the right person to speak for the band, even if drummer Dave Grohl, standing to his right, made it bigger after Nirvana, with his own group, Foo Fighters. The towering bass player was a founding member of Nirvana along with Kurt Cobain, who convinced him to form a band. Dave arrived just in time to record “Nevermind,” the album Gen X kids fell madly in love with and turned Nirvana into an instant icon. “This award brings back so many memories of making those videos,” Novoselic said as his speech intensified into viral material. While people tend to romanticize a dead celebrity, he actually chose to give credit where it is due. He pointed out, “The ideas for those videos all grew out of the vision of one of the greatest artists of all time, Kurt Cobain.” To the crowd’s audible nod, he stressed, “Kurt was one of one. None of us could have imagined that our band, our sound, and our aesthetic would mean so much to so many people.” Grohl giving the floor to Novoselic, never attempting to grab the microphone, made him look extra cool. Here’s a guy who is now a global voice himself. And yet he knew the moment was largely for the man who gave him a spot to make it on his own. Then there’s Pat Smear, who made his presence felt by lighting a cigarette. Did he do it on purpose? Regardless, it showcased the attitude Kurt was known for. The three men standing there all paid tribute to the one

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026

man who wasn’t there. Novoselic said just enough, nothing more, nothing less. For all that Nirvana meant to the 90s generation, it was the beauty of music that made their act truly legendary. Today’s dependency and reliance on manufactured artistry further highlights Nirvana’s historical and cultural significance. He explained, “But ultimately the music had a life of its own. It charted its own course.” “Nirvana continues to resonate so deeply because people are still hungry for authenticity, for something real, something uncompromising,” he noted, as the audience at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles and the netizens, young people then and now, seemed to all agree. The Nirvana legacy caretaker ended his cut-of-a-gem speech, sounding cute but not corny. That everything about Nirvana is “something that tells you it’s just okay to come as you are.” Of course, we know the song he was referencing. He gave one last tip of the hat to their leader and soul: “Kurt would have loved that legacy. Thank you all so much.” I won’t be surprised if that speech would be hailed as perhaps the best in rock history. Nirvana had a history of doing something naturally unmatched, like the MTV Unplugged in New York that they pulled off a few months before Cobain’s death. There, they performed stripped down, revealing that for all the noise and angst in their music and message, there is a rawness that endlessly caresses when it comes down to bare bones.

VMX actress and former beauty queen Shannon Sizon opened up about the family experience that pushed her to pursue a law degree, recalling how legal disputes between her parents exposed her to the difficulty and cost of seeking legal help. During the press conference for VMX Tapes: Volume 2, Shannon shared that her interest in law started years ago, but she was initially discouraged from pursuing it. “I asked my father about it, but he told me I couldn’t do it because I wasn’t smart enough,” she recalled. Shannon said that after her parents’ separation, her father was absent for three years before returning and filing cases against her mother. She said watching Actress and former beauty queen Shannon Sizon hopes to eventually her mother deal with the use her legal training to help people legal disputes gave her a who struggle to access representation closer look at how difficult it can be for families to find legal representation. “When we started looking for a lawyer, we realized how expensive it was. We also couldn’t go to the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) because we didn’t qualify. Life was really difficult for us at the time,” she said. The situation eventually led Shannon and her family to take legal action against her father as well. “We filed a case against my father. We would see each other in court,” she said. For Shannon, confronting her father was difficult because of the relationship they once had. “I’ve always loved my father. I’m a daddy’s girl. I never thought he would do those things to my mother and our family. Standing up to him was a big move for me,” she said. She added that what happened within her family became one of the reasons she wanted to continue studying law. “People might see me as a strong, independent woman, but what happened in my family really pushed me to become better,” Shannon said. Now a first-year law student at Manuel L. Quezon University, Shannon is considering either criminal or family law, although she is leaning toward criminal law. She said she also wants to help people who may not fully understand their legal rights. “If I do become a lawyer, I want to focus on pro bono cases,” she said. “A lot of people are afraid of being sued or responding to a case because they think hiring a lawyer is too expensive or too difficult here in the Philippines.” Shannon returns as host for VMX Tapes: Volume 2, which she said takes the concept of the first installment further with sexier material. The special begins streaming today on VMX.

Live Nation acquires Europe’s largest indoor arena US entertainment giant Live Nation said Wednesday it had completed the purchase of the Plenitude Arena near Paris, Europe’s largest indoor venue, where Celine Dion is currently holding concerts in her return to the stage after illness. The company’s first purchase in France will help cement the event organizer and its Ticketmaster concert ticket sales subsidiary as a dominant force in the industry. No financial details were released of the purchase of the facility, formerly known as the Paris La Defense Arena, from the Ovalto holding company owned by French businessman Jacky Lorenzetti. The arena on the western outskirts of the French capital was built in 2017 and can be adapted for entertainment as well as sporting events. Taylor Swift filled the arena to its 45,000-seat capacity during her 2024 Eras Tour, and it hosted the swimming and water polo competitions during the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. It has also Taylor Swift’s ‘2024 Eras Tour’ hosted stars has drawn a sold-out crowd including of 45,000 at the Plenitude Arena the Rolling Stones, Kendrick Lamar, and Dua Lipa. Live Nation said it planned to invest in the arena Celine Dion’s return to the stage to modernize and comes as Live Nation takes improve conditions ownership of the Paris arena where for the public and the singer is currently performing artists, as well as to allow it to host more events. AFP

‘Atonement,’ starring Kenneth Branagh, tells about an Iraqi family and a U.S. Marine whose lives intersect tragically in Baghdad

Kenneth Branagh examines the scars of Iraq war in ‘Atonement’ SCREENWRITER Reed Van Dyk was leafing through a magazine in 2012 when he found a New Yorker article about the human cost of war that stayed with him. “I wasn’t in a position to make a film about this back then,” he told AFP. After his short film DeKalb Elementary earned an Oscar nomination in 2018, Van Dyk returned to the article and began work on Atonement, which opens in limited release Friday. Set in 2003, the film follows an Iraqi family and a U.S. Marine whose lives become tragically intertwined in Baghdad. Mariam Khachaturian, played by Hiam Abbass, is traveling home with her family when their vehicles are fired on by Marines who believe they are under threat. Three passengers,

including Mariam’s husband, are killed. Mariam later moves to the United States with her daughter, while Marine Lou D’Alessandro, played by Boyd Holbrook, remains haunted by the shooting. A decade later, the two meet in California through journalist Michael Reid, played by Kenneth Branagh, who had interviewed them about the war. “I was very drawn to the idea of that complexity,” Branagh told AFP, describing the meeting as an attempt to process “pain and loss” and consider whether people can “forget, forgive.” Van Dyk said he was drawn to the characters’ tragic intersection and their eventual reunion, even as the film’s subject was no longer dominating headlines during its development. AFP

LIFE

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer The collaboration between Tory Burch and LIKHÂ, showcases Filipino artistry and creating sustainable livelihoods for artisan communities

Random Talk

Kate Adajar

From mere mention to global attention

refining, problem-solving, and figuring out how to bring an artisan-made product into the production HERE was a time when requirements of a global fashion house without losing the most important part. That is the hand of Filipino representation the artisan. And those hands have names. abroad could make us Nancy, one of the weavers behind the bag, learned unusually happy—a her craft by watching the aunts who raised her and has been weaving since she was around 18. few seconds of a Philippine flag Her reaction to seeing the finished product or filming location in a movie, is the most powerful description of what representation really means: “Oh! That’s a character saying a line in mine, I made that!” Tagalog, a Hollywood star casually Eldren, a LIKHÂ seamstress who began sewing as a teenager, expressed mentioning that he or she has a similar pride in seeing something “Filipino blood.” We celebrated the she helped create reach beyond the Philippines: “I feel proud and happy smallest acknowledgments because, knowing the products I made have for so long, simply being seen already made it outside the Philippines.” That is the part of global recognition felt like an achievement. we sometimes forget. A Filipino product reaching New We mock each other for making a York is not simply about a foreign brand big deal out of someone popular with putting a Philippine-made item on a shelf. even a fraction of Filipino heritage It is about the person who twisted the fiber, who made it to an international stage. made the knot, stitched the piece, and Underlying that, it was obvious that we finished the bag knowing that something wanted proof that we belonged in the LIKHÂ founder and CEO Nathalie Llorente-Lim (left) made by their hands is now being carried global conversation. with Tory Burch somewhere thousands of miles away. Today, something has shifted. Filipino There is another beautiful connection here. talent is no longer appearing only on the Llorente-Lim was named a 2024 Tory Burch sidelines. BINI made its Coachella debut fellow, independently of the collaboration. The joined forces in coming up with the Ella this year, while SB19 became the first fellowship and the LIKHÂ-Tory Burch partnership happened on hand-crocheted popcorn stitch bucket bag, Filipino act to perform at Lollapalooza separate paths. a dark cocoa bag made from natural abaca in Chicago. Filipino makeup brands I am especially proud of Nats because I have seen her growth and handcrafted in the Philippines. The bag are increasingly finding audiences in business in the Philippines years ago. She grew a brand from is now being sold exclusively in the United abroad, while Filipino creators, artists, scratch. And built another one in the US, now finding its place on States through Tory Burch. and entrepreneurs continue to build the global stage. Her heart has always had that longing to make a LIKHÂ means “to create.” Its mission international followings. difference in the lives of marginalized communities. She now tags is to reimagine traditional Filipino And then there is Forgotten Island, them along in her success. craftsmanship for the global market DreamWorks Animation’s FilipinoFrom entertainment to music, beauty to fashion, the Philippines while creating sustainable livelihoods for inspired feature that brings together Liza is slowly moving beyond the season when we had to celebrate a artisan communities. The brand works Soberano, H.E.R., Lea Salonga, Manny mere mention. Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, and Jo Koy, The collaboration showcases the hard work and talent with artisans across the Philippines, Now, we are creating the work. We are proudly carrying the transforming materials such as abaca, seagrass, among others, with Philippine folklore of Filipinos in terms of craftmanship culture. And thankfully, the world pays attention. palm, coconut coir, and other natural materials and culture being the movie’s focus. I happily think this is the new Filipino flex. The reality that into contemporary home, fashion, and lifestyle pieces. We are seeing Filipinos not merely being mentioned but being the Pinoy branding is not just being seen but being sought (and What makes the Tory Burch collaboration especially meaningful given space. And now, Philippine craftsmanship is having its own bought!) and given due credit. We are no longer just getting a mere is that the story does not stop at the finished bag. The Ella model moment in fashion. mention. Thanks to hard work and talent, Filipinos are making a took 2.5 years to develop. Iconic fashion brand Tory Burch has collaborated with LIKHÂ, the global impression. Behind its seemingly simple silhouette were years of sampling, Filipino social enterprise founded by Nathalie Llorente-Lim. They

The Loop X brings interactive tech zones, gaming and lifestyle products together under one roof at SM North EDSA The Annex

The new tech playground where gadgets meet matcha

The Loop X transforms the gadget shopping experience into a lifestyle playground

By Nickie Wang UNBOXING a new gadget has its own little thrill. The crisp packaging, the first peel of protective film, that moment when you finally switch it on. But what if shopping for your next device could be just as exciting? That is the idea behind The Loop X, now open on the third floor of SM North EDSA The Annex. The brand’s first flagship store turns the usual tech-shopping experience into something closer to a lifestyle playground, with sleek interiors, interactive zones, and plenty of gadgets to test before making that all-important upgrade. The “X” in The Loop X stands for Xperience, Xplore, and Xcape, three ideas that shape the store’s approach to technology. The Loop X gives shoppers plenty of reasons to linger. There are dedicated interactive areas where customers can try out new gear, including an experiential VR room and a racing simulator for those who prefer their gadget testing at high speed. The His and Hers concept displays also show how different

devices and accessories can work together, while an immersive audio wall allows shoppers to test sound equipment. There is also an enhancement wall packed with accessories and mobile add-ons, making it easier to customize a device setup beyond the phone or laptop itself. If the sheer number of choices in a typical gadget store can feel overwhelming, The Loop X is clearly embracing the opposite approach. Alongside the complete Apple lineup, the store carries devices and accessories from Samsung, realme, Xiaomi,

Tecno, Huawei, Honor, Nubia, Vivo, Oppo, and Nintendo. There are also lifestyle-focused brands such as Oura, Plaid, Amazfit, and Rokid, giving shoppers plenty of options whether they are looking for a new phone, upgrading a laptop, or simply hunting for the accessory they did not know they needed. Then comes the unexpected part. Because apparently, browsing gadgets while holding a cup of matcha makes perfect sense. The Loop X introduces The Loop Bar, an exclusive in-store matcha bar where shoppers can take a break with a drink while contemplating their next tech purchase.

The new flagship store goes beyond phones and laptops, combining technology, entertainment and lifestyle in a space designed for shoppers who want to explore before they buy

The Loop X reimagines gadget shopping as an experience, bringing interactive tech zones, gaming and lifestyle products together under one roof at SM North EDSA The Annex

It is an unusual pairing, but one that makes the store feel less like a place where you walk in, buy a device, and leave. The idea is to make technology part of a broader lifestyle experience, where gadgets, accessories, entertainment, and even a caffeine fix share the same space. That may be the most interesting thing about The Loop X. It recognizes that buying technology has changed. We no longer shop only for specifications and price

The store features interactive zones, a wide range of devices and accessories, and an in-store matcha bar

tags. We want to touch the products, test them, compare them, imagine them in our lives, and occasionally sip matcha while deciding whether we really need another gadget.