Reg’l police teams join Bato manhunt
20 .00 IN METRO MANILA
VOL. XL • NO. 260 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES NOVEMBER 1, 2026
Remulla: Dela Rosa’s PNP, PMA links make arrest difficult By Rex Espiritu and Pot Chavez
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properly coordinated,” Lopez said. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, for his part, acknowledged that Dela Rosa’s connections within the PNP and his background as a Philippine Military Academy alumnus have made efforts to arrest him more challenging. Despite the complications, Remulla said these would not prevent the police from carrying out operations to arrest the senator. He also defended the government’s decision to offer a P50-million bounty for information leading to Dela Rosa’s arrest. The Interior chief said the reward remained necessary because Dela Rosa was wellentrenched in Mindanao. Turn to A4
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HE Philippine National Police has activated task groups in all of its regional offices to coordinate nationwide manhunt operations against fugitive Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa. Lt. Gen. Wilson Joseph Lopez, officer-in-charge of the PNP Deputy Chief for Administration and head of the specialized task force assigned to arrest Dela Rosa, said they are considering all possible leads and operational scenarios. “The PNP will continue to perform its mandate, and we are looking at all possible angles while ensuring that our operations remain intelligence-driven and
FOR THE DEARLY DEPARTED. People troop to the Manila South Cemetery on Saturday ahead of the observance of All Souls’ Day on Nov. 1. The Manila Police District has implemented strict security measures, while the cemetery management has prepared a ‘grave finder’ service. (Inset left) Candles are lit at the memorial marker for victims of the Payatas landslide at Bagbag Cemetery in Novaliches, Quezon City on Saturday. A total of 218 deaths and 300 missing were recorded when a mountain of garbage collapsed at the dumpsite on July 10, 2000. (Inset right) Along Sct. Rallos in Quezon City, fur babies participate in a Halloween walk on Saturday, a festive and modern way to mark All Hallows Eve. Norman Cruz, Joan Bondoc, Robert Alfiler
Rody to skip Monday’s conference ahead of Nov. 30 trial By Gwyneth Nolasco FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte waived his right to appear before the International Criminal Court (ICC) Trial Chamber III at the upcoming fifth status conference on Nov. 2. Duterte instructed his lawyers, led by legal counsel Peter Haynes, to address the procedural matters listed on
Senate may invite CSOs, watchdogs to 2027 budget bicam — Lacson By Joel E. Zurbano THE Senate is considering inviting civil society organizations, especially those focused on budget advocacy, to attend and scrutinize the bicameral conference committee proceedings of the 2027 national budget. Senator Panfilo Lacson said the move aims to highlight and embarrass lawmakers who engage in dubious budget insertions. “We must not just be vigilant. We may have to resort to shaming because there are those who are shameless in making insertions, and we are still reeling from the flood control scandal,” he said. Lacson challenged budget advocacy groups to be prepared to stay through lengthy deliberations so they could personally witness the proceedings. Turn to A4
the status conference agenda and any other matters to be discussed during the hearing on Monday. Duterte’s trial is scheduled on Nov. 30 for his crimes against humanity he allegedly committed in the Philippines during his mayoral and presidential terms, between Nov. 1, 2011 and Mar. 16, 2019. The proceedings will open at 10 a.m. in The Hague (5
p.m. Manila time). Presiding Judge Joanna Korner, Judge Keebong Paek, and Judge Nicolas Guillou will oversee the trial proceedings as part of Trial Chamber III, ensuring the rights of all parties and participants are respected. According to the ICC, the judges will verify whether Duterte understands the nature of the charges against him
and will ask whether he admits guilt or pleads not guilty. The Chamber will hear opening statements from the prosecution, common legal representatives of the victims, and the defense if it requests to deliver one. The prosecution has been granted six hours for its opening statements Turn to A4
Over 2k residents evacuate in Albay amid Mayon unrest By Rex Espiritu, Maricel Cruz and Hannah Franchezka Boragay MORE than 2,000 residents across Albay were evacuated following Friday’s moderately explosive eruption of Mayon Volcano, the Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (APSEMO) reported. A total of 746 families (2,041 individuals) were evacuated from Tabaco City, Camalig, and Brgy. Baligang in Ligao City, according to the APSEMO Monitoring Report. Most of these were evacuated from Tabaco City, representing 531 families, while 205 families were from Camalig and 10 families were from Ligao City. Local government units in Malilipot, Legazpi City, Sto. Domingo, Daraga, and GuTurn to A4
MEALS ON WHEELS. Amid Mayon Volcano’s unrest, members of the Philippine Red Cross - Albay Legazpi City Chapter serve hot meals to displaced families at an evacuation center. PRC Facebook page
Close to 1m Pinoys bought P20/k gov’t rice in Sept. — DA By Othel V. Campos ALMOST one million Filipinos bought government-subsidized rice in September, the highest monthly turnout since the administration launched its P20-per-kilo program last year
as strong demand for cheaper food drives efforts to ease household food costs. A total of 961,346 beneficiaries purchased 21.4 million kilos of locally produced rice under the “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program, according to De-
partment of Agriculture data. September’s turnout surpassed the previous monthly record of 838,695 beneficiaries in April, with senior citizens, indigents, solo parents, persons with disabilities, farmers, fisherfolk Turn to A4
Honor departed loved ones thru kindness, service, PBBM tells Pinoys By Katrina Manubay, Rex Espiritu, Itchie G. Cabayan and Gabriel Oliva PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday called on Filipinos to honor their departed loved ones through compassion, kindness, and service to others as the country observes All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. “I join the Catholic faithful and the entire Filipino nation in the solemn observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day,” the President said in his message. “Across the country, families return to cemeteries, offering prayers and celebrating the lives and legacies of departed loved ones. Some travel great distances for these visits, finding an opportunity to reunite with relatives and recall the moments they once shared,” he added. Filipinos have started visiting cemeteries and memorial parks across the nation yesterday to honor departed loved ones. At least 72,000 people trooped to the Manila North Cemetery, the country’s largest, yesterday afternoon. The Philippine Coast Guard also reported 60,411 outbound passengers and 54,291 inbound passengers across all ports yesterday ahead of All Saint’s Day. Turn to A4
Fears of violence as France braces for Halloween protests
Before trick-or-treat, Pinoys observed ‘pangangaluluwa’
DepEd warns scammers in SHS voucher program
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Recto reaffirms support for Bangsamoro governance
A2 | NOVEMBER 1, 2026
By Katrina Manubay and Rex Espiritu
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xecutive Secretary Ralph Recto on Saturday reaffirmed the Marcos administration’s commitment to supporting Bangsamoro self-governance and sustaining the peace process as the first duly elected Bangsamoro Parliament formally convened.
In a statement, Recto said the election marked a milestone in the region’s transition to self-rule. He recognized the Bangsamoro people’s determination and the government’s continued commitment to the peace process, which paved the way for a Parliament
elected by and for the Bangsamoro people. “The task now is to ensure that the fruits of democracy are shared by all—through better public services, decent livelihoods, and greater opportunities for every Bangsamoro family,” Recto said,
pledging continued government suppor t in preser ving peace gains and addressing the injustices and grievances that fueled the conflict. On Friday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the national government’s support for Bangsamoro autonomy, ending a seven-year transition and ushering in a new phase of democratic governance. Members of Parliament voted 51-27 to install Abdulraof Macacua as the first chief minister of the elected Parliament, defeating Moro Islamic Liberation Front chairman Ahod Balawag Ebrahim. The Office of the Presidential
Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity also pledged continued support for the newly elected Bangsamoro government. Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento said the inaugural session in Cotabato City on Oct. 30 fulfilled a key commitment under the political track of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, marking the shift from an interim administration to an elected regional government. He credited joint peace bodies, intergovernmental institutions and the Normalization Program for helping pave the way for the parliamentary government.
BUSWAY REHAB.
The EDSA Busway undergoes rehabilitation near the Nepa Q-Mart Station in Cubao, Quezon City, on Saturday. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority exempts flagship government projects and emergency repairs from its suspension of road excavation works from Nov. 1 to Dec. 23 to ease holiday traffic. Joan Bondoc
Alleged loans, account transfers excluded from VP Sara income review By Maricel V. Cruz RECOGNIZED loan proceeds, renewed time deposits and transfers between the couple’s own accounts were excluded before the prosecution’s financial analyst calculated the questioned personal-income inflows involving Vice President Sara Duterte and her husband, lawyer Manases Carpio. House trial spokesperson Zia Alonto Adiong of Lanao del Sur detailed the exclusions, explaining why bank deposits and new earnings should be distinguished when examining the couple’s finances. Among the excluded transactions were the alleged P8 million in
housing-loan proceeds, P102 million in time-deposit rollovers, P10.29 million and P5 million in investment proceeds, and P72.18 million transferred between their own accounts. “This is not income; it is a loan,” Alonto Adiong said of the loan proceeds. He said forensic financial analyst Atty. Alexander Cabrera sought to examine money allegedly entering the accounts without counting recognized movements of existing funds as fresh income. Alonto Adiong also argued that a Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) provides only a year-end snapshot and does not reflect all transactions throughout the year. A December 31 balance, therefore,
does not by itself establish the full year’s receipts or the purpose of payments made earlier. Alonto Adiong said the review required transaction records alongside the amounts remaining at year-end, including the financial activities of any companies owned by the individuals concerned. The panel compared the remaining identified inflows with the income declared in the couple’s tax returns. Alonto Adiong presented Cabrera’s original four-year comparison under Article II, which covers alleged unexplained wealth, asset disclosures and business interests. The exclusions formed part of the methodology used in assessing the income comparison.
Duterte camp, Velasco deny fresh cash delivery allegations
Two suspected NPA members killed in Eastern Samar clash, military says
IN BRIEF
TWO suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed, while two high-powered firearms were recovered following an armed encounter with government troops in Barangay Jicontol, Dolores, Eastern Samar, on Oct. 28, the Philippine Army said. In a statement, the Army’s 8th Infantry Division (8ID) said troops launched the operation after receiving intelligence from residents about armed individuals allegedly planning extortion activities in nearby farming communities. Government forces reportedly encountered a defensive perimeter
BuCor chief leads mass, launches virtual Undas program for inmates BUREAU of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. led a Holy Mass at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) Cemetery on Saturday in honor of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) buried there. The cemetery holds the remains of 1,538 PDLs, including 457 unclaimed bodies ordered buried by Catapang since 2024. During the observance, he stressed the importance of remembering and honoring the deceased, particularly those without family members or relatives to visit their graves during Undas. In line with the commemoration, BuCor is implementing its Electronic Undas (E-Undas) program, which allows PDLs to virtually connect with their families as they remember departed loved ones. Through electronic communication and virtual interaction, inmates can offer prayers, express their love and remembrance, and participate in the Filipino tradition despite their physical separation from their families. NBP Superintendent C/SSUPT Gary Garcia directed camp commanders to provide electronic communication facilities, ensure proper scheduling, and give PDLs fair opportunities to participate, subject to existing security protocols. He said the initiative reflects BuCor’s commitment to humane corrections, family ties, and the emotional and spiritual well-being of PDLs, which are essential to their reformation and rehabilitation.
rigged with numerous anti-personnel landmines. The 8ID said air assets and artillery support were deployed to address the threat posed by the explosives and weaken the group’s defensive positions. The encounter resulted in the recovery of the remains of two unidentified individuals believed to be NPA members and two high-powered firearms. No government casualties were reported, while pursuit operations against the remaining members of the group were ongoing as of Friday, the Army said. Rex Espiritu
Baguio City police to deploy than 1.5k cops, volunteers for Oplan Kaluluwa BAGUIO CITY — The Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) has lined up 1,589 police officers, support personnel and volunteers for Oplan Kaluluwa as authorities prepare for an estimated 63,100 visitors to the city’s eight cemeteries during this year’s observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. BCPO City Director Police Col. Nixon Laoyan said the deployment will cover cemeteries, transportation hubs, tourist destinations, shopping centers and public markets to ensure
security across the city during the holidays. The deployment consists of 798 police personnel, 142 personnel from national support units, and 649 members of augmentation units and volunteer groups. Of the 798 police officers, 231 will be assigned to cemeteries, while the remaining 567 will cover transportation hubs, tourist spots, malls, public markets and other areas while maintaining regular police operations. Dexter See
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TRICK-OR-TREAT. Children wearing scary animal masks strike playful monster poses as they prepare for Halloween trick-or-treat activities on Saturday. Edd Castro
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VICE President Sara Duterte’s camp and former House speaker Lord Allan Velasco separately pushed back against fresh allegations of cash deliveries. In a statement on Friday, Duterte’s spokesperson, Atty. Paolo Panelo, accused her critics of engaging in “black propaganda” and vowed to refute allegations by a purported former Velasco driver with evidence at the proper time. “Another day, another planted witness. They can keep manufacturing allegations, but they cannot fabricate the truth,” Panelo said. Earlier, a man who allegedly worked as Velasco’s driver appeared before the National Bureau of Investigation, claiming he had delivered suitcases of money to the vice president twice. In his three-page sworn affidavit, “Alias Chris”said he worked as Velasco’s driver from 2020 to 2022 and alleged that in 2021, he drove a van in a convoy carrying about 15 suitcases to Davao before making a second trip on Velasco’s orders. Panelo challenged the media to
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independently verify the allegations rather than simply report them, accusing Duterte’s critics of weaponizing the press to spread black propaganda. Velasco’s spokesperson, Atty. Rowell Ilagan, also rejected the claims, describing the alleged driver’s testimony as inconsistent and lacking factual basis. He said the allegations were intended to damage Velasco’s character and integrity and urged the media to verify them. “Alias Chris”is the second Velasco associate to claim involvement in alleged deliveries for Duterte. The first was dismissed policeman Rodolfo Gracioso Jr., who claimed he delivered suitcases of cash to the vice president and, at her direction, handed them to former Davao City information officer Jefry Tupas. Tupas denied the allegations, questioning the dates and documentary evidence and saying his travel records showed he was abroad when the deliveries supposedly took place. Duterte has also repeatedly denied the claims, describing Gracioso’s affidavit as containing “lies” and calling it another media stunt.
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DepEd warns scammers in education voucher program By Gabriel Oliva
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HE Department of Education (DepEd) on Oct. 30 warned fraudsters of legal prosecution as it strengthened measures to eliminate fictitious beneficiaries of its Senior High School (SHS) voucher program. In a statement, DepEd said the warning is part of its intensified efforts to curb fraudulent claims under DepEd Order No. 11, series of 2026, which contains the Enhanced Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (E-GASTPE) framework. The Education Department cited a recent conviction by a Metro Manila Regional Trial Court in July,
in which a voucher scammer was sentenced to more than 14 years in prison and fined P100,000 for filing false billing statements. “DepEd continues to pursue criminal cases and complaints against erring private school administrators and former personnel involved in fraudulent claims,” DepEd said. According to DepEd, the newly institutionalized Basic Educa-
tion Voucher Assistance measure provides that false voucher claims constitute estafa under the Revised Penal Code, punishable by fines of up to P500,000 and mandatory restitution of funds. DepEd said it is enforcing a fivelayer billing validation process before releasing funds to prevent payments for fictitious voucher beneficiaries and invalid billings. “The measures are intended to prevent, detect, and address invalid claims throughout the program cycle,” DepEd said. The department added that the enhanced policies and guidelines had enabled it to deny the release of more than P238 million in suspicious billings for School Year 2025-2026 and recover P79.1 million in refunds from noncompliant schools.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said intentional fraud against the voucher program is a crime against Filipino families, warning that the department would not hesitate to prosecute scammers. “We are closing the systemic loopholes that unscrupulous individuals have taken advantage of in the past,” Angara said. He added that the initiative is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s mandate to ensure government funds reach legitimate beneficiaries, ease their financial burden, and give them access to education. “By cleaning up our registries and strengthening our validation, we are protecting the integrity of the voucher program so that support reaches the learners and families who rely on it,” Angara added.
Lazaro briefs ASEAN, Japan envoys on Myanmar By Ma. Katrina Mikaela Manubay FOREIGN Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro briefed the heads of mission from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states and Japan in Yangon, Myanmar, on the outcomes of her humanitarian mission and discussions with Myanmar Foreign Minister U Tin Maung Swe. In a post on X, Lazaro said the discussions focused on efforts to advance the implementation of ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus. “After a full day of activities in Nay Pyi Taw, I met with the heads of mission of ASEAN member states and Japan in Yangon, Myanmar, to brief them on the outcomes of the humanitarian mission,
as well as the salient points of my meeting with Myanmar Foreign Minister U Tin Maung Swe,” her post read. “I also exchanged views with fellow ASEAN member states on developments in Myanmar and how ASEAN and its dialogue partners may continue their work in assisting Myanmar, particularly towards the further implementation of the Five-Point Consensus,” she added. On Thursday, Lazaro met with Tin Maung Swe to discuss the humanitarian situation in the country and explore ways to expand aid delivery to affected communities. During her visit to Nay Pyi Taw, she also visited a prefabricated school building in Tha Pyay Pin Village and distributed school kits to children to support the rebuilding of communi-
ties affected by the 2025 earthquake. In a media statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Lazaro and Tin Maung Swe also discussed bilateral cooperation between the Philippines and Myanmar, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. In July, ahead of the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and PostMinisterial Conferences, Lazaro met with Myanmar’s ethnic armed organizations and government peace negotiators to discuss ways to advance inclusive political dialogue and address the country’s prolonged conflict. She also led an informal ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting with Myanmar’s foreign minister, who provided updates on recent developments in
the country. In 2021, regional leaders introduced a five-point peace plan calling for an immediate end to fighting, the initiation of political dialogue, the appointment of an ASEAN special envoy, and the delivery of humanitarian aid. However, Myanmar’s leaders have failed to implement the plan. As a result, ASEAN has excluded Myanmar’s leaders and foreign minister from its annual summits and foreign ministers’meetings, although lower-level diplomats are still allowed to participate. The DFA chief previously led a humanitarian mission to Myanmar to distribute relief supplies to communities in need, accompanied by representatives from ASEAN member states and Japan.
PH consulate warns Pinoys in Barcelona of violent acts By Ma. Katrina Mikaela Manubay The Philippine Consulate General in Barcelona on Friday night warned Filipinos of possible violent protests on Saturday, Oct. 31, urging them to stay home whenever possible. In an advisory, the consulate urged Filipinos to avoid affected areas, particularly Plaça de Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia, and La Rambla. “The Philippine Consulate General in Barcelona advises all Filipinos in Barcelona to exercise heightened caution due to possible violent protests on Saturday, 31 October 2026, particularly in the areas of Plaça de Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia, and La Rambla,” the advisory read. “Traffic disruptions, public transportation delays, and possible disturbances may occur in and around these areas,” it added. The consulate also urged Filipinos to avoid demonstration sites, remain
vigilant, follow instructions from local authorities, and monitor official updates. In a separate advisory, the Philippine Embassy in Rome advised Filipinos to remain cautious and alert amid several demonstrations and large public events scheduled in the city from Oct. 30 to Nov. 2. The embassy also advised the public to exercise additional caution during Halloween celebrations on Saturday evening, particularly in crowded areas. The Philippine Embassy in Milan had earlier cautioned Filipinos in northern Italy against using the Philippine flag to attract social media attention or gain online popularity during contentious demonstrations. It reminded the community to uphold the flag’s dignity and comply with local laws. The statement followed the circulation of an online video showing an
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HALLOWEEN PIECES. A Halloweenthemed storefront display featuring a skeleton in a pilot’s suit, a pumpkin and a black cat adorns Borromeo Street in Quezon City ahead of Halloween festivities. Manny Palmero
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NOVEMBER 1, 2026 |
IN BRIEF Centennial exhibit celebrates Larry Alcala’s wit, creativity LEGAZPI CITY — The public will have the chance to appreciate once more the works of Lauro “Larry” Alcala, the National Artist for Visual Arts from Albay whose humorous drawings depicting everyday life captivated generations of Filipinos. The National Museum of the Philippines-Daraga opened the yearlong “Larry Alcala: Slices of Life, Wit and Humor” on Friday to celebrate his centennial birth year. Alcala was born in Daraga on Aug. 18, 1926. The free exhibit features selected cartoons, including works from the 1980s and pieces inspired by Bicol’s cultural heritage and Mayon Volcano. Known as the “Dean of Filipino Cartoonists,” Alcala began his comics career in 1946 while studying at the University of the Philippines in Quezon City. He created more than 500 characters and 20 comic strips, including “Islaw Palitaw,” “Kalabog en Bosyo,” “Asiong Aksaya,” “Tipin,” “Mang Ambo” and “Siopawman.” His popular “Slice of Life” series captured Filipino humor and everyday experiences, with readers eagerly searching for his hidden self-caricature in each installment. Connie Calipay
Cebu boosts cyber defenses as digital services expand CEBU CITY — The Cebu Provincial Government is strengthening its cybersecurity defenses as it pursues a province-wide digitalization drive, warning that stronger systems mean little without people who know how to protect themselves online. Acting Gov. Stanley Caminero sounded the alarm during a cybersecurity summit at the Capitol Social Hall on Thursday, Oct. 30, saying technology can empower citizens but also expose them to new risks. He said people remain the most vulnerable link in technological advancement but are also the first line of defense against cyber threats. Caminero said the administration of Gov. Pamela Baricuatro is making digitalization and cybersecurity shared priorities of the executive and legislative branches. The initiative is part of the governor’s broader push for data-driven governance, according to Capitol digitalization chief Paulo Uy, who said the goal is to make accurate and timely information readily available for government operations and decision-making. The Capitol has rolled out digital services, including mobile payments for provincial dues through GCash and Maya and an online real property tax system. Uy stressed that protecting sensitive information in provincial offices and hospitals is essential as more records and transactions move online, adding that cybersecurity is necessary to sustain the digitalization drive. Minerva Newman
American traveler arrested for smuggling cannabis at NAIA
COASTAL PROTECTION. Youth volunteers plant 500 mangrove saplings at Sitio Cocoville in Dulao, Aringay, La Union, on Saturday, in a coastal protection initiative organized in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office. Leilanie Adriano individual holding a Philippine flag during a public protest. Local reports said the demonstrations in Europe stemmed from
growing public anger over high energy and fuel prices, high rents, low wages, rising living costs, and public service issues.
THE Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP-Avsegroup) announced the arrest of a 62-year-old American national who allegedly attempted to smuggle hybrid cannabis worth more than P17.4 million through the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). The arrest was made through the joint efforts of the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group, which discovered 17.464 kilograms of kush in the suspect’s luggage upon his arrival from Bangkok, Thailand. The illegal drugs were detected during Customs X-ray screening and confirmed through manual inspection and K-9 unit checks at the international arrivals secondary inspection area. The confiscated drugs were turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency for appropriate legal proceedings. The suspect remains in police custody and will face charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act. PNP-Avsegroup Director Brig. Gen. Dionisio Bartolome Jr. said the police would strengthen airport monitoring and enforcement to combat illegal drug trafficking, stressing that those involved must be held accountable under the law. Joel E. Zurbano
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WORLD
A4 | NOVEMBER 1, 2026
Trump admin okays 500 Patriot missiles sale to Ukraine WA S H I N G TO N – The Trump administration on Friday green-lit the sale of 500 Patriot missiles to Ukraine, the State Department said, but the Ukrainian president warned deliveries could take years. The approval, which goes to Congress for review, comes after weeks of complaints by Ukrainian authorities that its supplies of the interceptor missiles were dwindling. “The proposed sale will improve Ukraine’s capability to meet current and future threats by improving its integrated air and missile defense capabilities,” the department said in a statement. The statement did not provide an estimate for when the weapons could be delivered to Ukraine. But Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said late Friday in a post on X that “deliveries may begin ONLY IN A FEW YEARS.” “We are asking our American partners to find a solution for the time when there is a real danger and a real need to use PAC-3 interceptors,” Zelensky said, using an acronym for the weapons. The Ukrainian leader suggested that the US and European allies could give his country missiles they have stockpiled now, which would later be replenished by this new purchase. Patriot missiles are among the most important weapons Ukraine has to intercept Russian drones and missiles. AFP
INDIGENOUS RITUAL MEETS CATHOLIC OBSERVANCE.
A performer celebrates Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in Los Angeles, California. Dia de los Muertos is a traditional Mexican celebration that honors and commemorates deceased loved ones. AFP
Fears of violence as France braces for Halloween protests
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ARIS – France on Saturday braced for a third weekend of protests coinciding with Halloween, as shops boarded up and authorities scrambled to prevent a repeat of the street violence that swept the country two weeks ago. The demonstrations come in an increasingly febrile political climate, with presidential elections six months away and far-right leader Marine Le Pen leading opinion polls. President Emmanuel Macron this week said it was “not normal” for France to be in such a state of “turmoil” so close to a presidential election. Around 70,000 security personnel will be deployed on Saturday, matching the number mobilized a week ago, as authorities seek to avert a repeat of the October 17 unrest. More than 40 metro stations will be closed in the capital and tram services will also be disrupted. An aide to Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said they expected street violence on a scale “comparable” to the unrest two weeks ago, when images of clashes, looted shops and public buildings set ablaze were broadcast around the world.
while the victims’ representatives are given three hours. “At the end of the trial hearings, the Judges of the Trial Chamber will render their judgment within a reasonable period of time,” the ICC said, noting that they will convict someone if the charges are proven beyond reasonable doubt. The hearing can be followed with a 30-minute delay on the ICC website, Facebook page, and YouTube channel. As this developed, an administrative unit of the ICC Registry asked the Trial Chamber III for guidance on reviewing the applications of direct and indirect victims of Duterte’s drug war, following the approved scope of his crimes against humanity case. A 15-page filing dated Oct. 29 outlined Group A applications who were “clearly qualified” as victims, Group B as those “clearly out of the scope,” and Group C as those who have an “unclear determination.”
Senate... From A1
He assured no one will be exempt from scrutiny during the Senate’s review of the proposed 2027 national budget, underscoring the need for a thorough approach to address questionable allocations. “Our attitude now is to go gungho. If anyone gets hit, so be it. There will be no exceptions, otherwise the exception could become the general rule,” he said. When asked if the scrutiny will cover the largest net increase in public works allocations to the congressional district of presidential son Rep. Sandro Marcos in the House-approved version of the bill, Lacson said: “Yes, absolutely.”
demonstrators from marching between Bastille and Nation in eastern Paris, but a court overturned the ban. Nunez said authorities had detected social media calls for Halloween gatherings on Saturday evening urging protesters to spark a “revolution.” Some posts on social media called on people to dress up and gather for a “night of darkness.” Nunez warned that protesters would not be allowed to wear masks concealing their faces. On Friday, customers crowded into a costume shop in Paris, but manager Didier Jarsale said it was not his job to “ask every customer what they intend to do with what they buy.” “We’re not here to act as police officers,” he said. Authorities have acknowledged security and intelligence failures that helped pave the way for the clashes, widespread looting and vandalism that erupted on October 17. Since then, they have moved to reassert control by restricting demonstrations and imposing curfews in several cities. A night-time curfew will be imposed in the Republique and Chatelet-Les Halles neighborhoods of Paris from 11:00 pm to 6:00 am on Saturday and Sunday. More than 1,000 municipal workers will be mobilized in Paris over the weekend to clean up public spaces, the mayor’s office said. The unrest followed weeks of demonstrations by high school students campaigning for better learning conditions. AFP
US, Sokor, Japan vow ‘complete’ denuclearization of North Korea
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The protest movement brings together Yellow Vest activists, trade unions, and high school and university students. It initially focused on the rising cost of living, inequality, and deteriorating learning conditions. But following a security clampdown and serious injuries to some protesters, the movement broadened its demands to include greater protection of civil liberties and the right to protest. A police source pointed to “considerable nervousness” among the authorities. “There is no reason to think this will go smoothly,” the source said. Alain Di Crescenzo, president of France’s chamber of commerce, said business owners were worried. “Shopkeepers can’t wait for Saturday to be over,” Di Crescenzo told broadcaster France Inter. “The information we have is that Halloween is not helping matters, because we’re going to have people wearing masks.” Ahead of the protests, some shops and other businesses across France boarded up their storefronts. “Behind these boards, there is neither power nor an enemy. Just a family and its work,” read a message scrawled in black across the plywood protecting a Paris business. The interior minister on Thursday warned of a “very high risk of public disorder,” saying demonstrations would be allowed, but not in city centers. The Paris police prefecture tried to prevent
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However, Dela Rosa’s lawyer, Israelito Torreon, insisted authorities have no legal basis to arrest the senator. “There is no constitutional basis because under Article 3, Section 2 of the 1987 Constitution, warrants of arrest can only be issued after there is a finding of probable cause by a Philippine judge,” Torreon told ABS-CBN News. “But there are no cases filed here in our country. So that surrender call, that ultimatum, has no basis,” Torreon added. Torreon also questioned the enforceability of the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against Dela Rosa. “We doubt if it is valid here in our country. But granted for the sake of argument, it is valid, we are sure that it is not enforceable in our country,” he said. Dela Rosa had mostly been in hiding for months before The Hague-based ICC unsealed the November 2025 arrest warrant against him in May. He emerged from months of hiding on May 11 to take refuge inside the Senate building, but slipped out days later following a standoff between security guards and investigators attempting to arrest him, in which shots were fired.
SEOUL – The United States, South Korea and Japan reaffirmed their commitment to the “complete denuclearization” of North Korea on Saturday, as Pyongyang continues to reject disarmament ahead of possible talks with Washington. Speculation is mounting over a potential meeting between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at next month’s APEC summit in China, with Trump making repeated overtures to Pyongyang for nuclear talks. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and his Japanese counterpart Toshimitsu Motegi “reaffirmed their resolute commitment to the complete denuclearization” of North Korea during talks on Friday on the sidelines of a Group of 20 (G20) meeting in Atlanta in the US state of Georgia, the US State Department said. They also pledged “full implementation” of UN Security Council resolutions, including a ban on
supporting revenue for North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Despite long-running UN sanctions, North Korea, which is backed by Russia and China, has enshrined its status as a nuclear-armed state in law, with its regime repeatedly declaring its atomic arsenal permanent and irreversible. Trump has made repeated overtures to Pyongyang for nuclear talks, while scaling back joint military drills with ally South Korea. The mercurial US leader even bucked long-held US policy last year by conceding that North Korea was already “sort of a nuclear power,” while reaching out to Pyongyang for talks, saying he was “100 percent” open to a meeting – a suggestion that went unanswered. Analysts and South Korea’s spy agency say Kim may have conveyed Pyongyang’s position on potential talks with Trump to Beijing during a recent visit to the Chinese border city of Dandong. South Korea’s dovish President Lee
Jae Myung -- who has repeatedly offered Pyongyang talks without preconditions -- suggested in September that Washington seek a freeze, rather than the immediate elimination, of the North’s nuclear program in return for sanctions relief. Critics have said such an approach risks tacitly accepting North Korea as a nuclear-armed state while allowing Pyongyang to win sanctions relief without giving up its arsenal. Analysts say China may also be moving towards tacit acceptance, pointing to the omission of North Korean denuclearization from statements after Kim and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in June. Pyongyang denounced a joint statement on Saturday by a group of nations monitoring sanctions implementations against it, vowing that “the stereotyped sanctions racket of the US and the West can neither influence the position of the DPRK (North Korea) as a nuclear weapons state.” AFP
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a higher price for their palay from the National Food Authority,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. Rice accounts for about nine percent of the average Filipino household’s budget, with the share roughly doubling among poor families, making affordability a major concern for low-income households.
Honor... However, there appeared to be a decrease in travelers with several airports, sea ports and bus terminals reporting less crowded operations. Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso on Saturday called on senior citizens to avoid, when possible, crowded and narrow locations at
the Manila North Cemetery and Manila South Cemetery, noting that they can visit their departed loved ones after the Undas long weekend. The mayor also advised the public against wearing loud and expensive jewelry, as well as bringing traditionally prohibited items like any form of firearms, bladed items, playing cards and other gambling paraphernalia, and sound systems, among others.
volcanic earthquakes and 30 rockfall events over the preceding 24 hours. APSEMO Department Head Bobby Cristobal said the province immediately mobilized vehicles and other resources to move residents out of the danger zone. “Our protocol here is that every
time we raise Alert Level 3, we carry out preemptive evacuation of everyone living within the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone,” Cristobal said. APSEMO has since placed its Provincial Disaster Operation Center under Red Alert status to ensure continuous monitoring and coordi-
nation with affected LGUs and response clusters. Meanwhile, the Albay Provincial Health Office distributed 22,000 surgical masks to health facilities in several areas to help protect residents from the possible effects of ashfall.
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and minimum-wage earners among those who availed of the program. “This year alone, from January to the end of September, the P20per-kilo rice program has directly helped over 5.6 million Filipinos ease the pressure on their wallets, while helping local farmers secure
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inobatan were also closely monitoring the situation. In its monitoring summary yesterday, PHIVOLCS also recorded 15
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Online safety exhibit targets teens, parents and educators META, the government, and civil society partners launched a free interactive exhibit to promote online safety and digital well-being among Filipino teens, parents, and educators. The Digital Dialogue In Real Life (DDIRL), held from October 26 to 30 at Glorietta Activity Center with Ayala Malls, features practical resources to help visitors recognize online risks and seek assistance. Partners include the Department of Education (DepEd), the Department of Information and Communications Technology-Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, the National Youth Commission, Stairway Foundation, and Liga ng Mga Barangay. “Technology and safety settings go hand-inhand with open conversations and guidance from trusted adults,” said Meta’s head of public policy for the Philippines, Gio Tingson. The exhibit builds on Meta’s Screen Smart Philippines initiative and highlights Teen Account protections across Instagram, Facebook, Messenger and Threads, including private
accounts by default, messaging restrictions, sensitive-content limits, 60-minute usage reminders and Sleep Mode. Meta has also introduced age-appropriate content restrictions that teens cannot disable without parental permission. DepEd secretary Sonny Angara urged parents and educators to help young people understand their emotions and online experiences. “We must be the adults in the room. We must explain to our children what they’re feeling, why they’re feeling this way,” he said, stressing that child-safety precautions should extend to online activities. D I C T- Cy b e rc r i m e I nve s t i g at i o n a n d Coordinating Center executive director Renato “Aboy” Paraiso called for accessible reporting channels and support for victims of online abuse and exploitation, while Stairway Foundation child protection specialist Ace Diloy likewise stressed cooperation among government, platforms, families and communities to prevent online harm.
Tala expands CaaS platform to widen credit access
TALA Philippines is expanding its Credit-asa-Service (CaaS) platform to help businesses embed credit into their own apps and networks, widening access to formal financing for Filipinos with limited conventional credit histories. The AI-native credit infrastructure company said CaaS allows partner businesses to integrate Tala’s proprietary credit scoring and decisioning capabilities through application programming interfaces (APIs) or a software development kit (SDK), with credit decisions delivered within minutes.
“Financial inclusion thrives when different parts of the ecosystem work together,” said Moritz Gastl, president and general manager of Tala Philippines. “Tala brings real-time credit decisioning and proprietary risk intelligence to the table, while our partners bring reach, capital, and other strengths.” The model allows customers to access credit through platforms they already use, including those whose ability to repay may not be fully captured by conventional credit records. Tala’s disbursement and cash-out network also connects borrowers to e-wallets, banks and over-the-counter payment channels. Tala is complementing the CaaS platform with loan channeling partnerships that combine its credit infrastructure and customer reach with the funding capacity of financial institutions. A major partnership launched in 2024 demonstrated the model by combining institutional capital with Tala’s experience ser ving customers with limited credit histories. The expansion comes as 58 percent of Filipino adults now own a formal financial account, shifting the financial inclusion challenge toward greater use of formal services for saving and borrowing. Tala said stronger credit access must also be accompanied by responsible lending and consumer protection. Through its leadership role in the Consumer Lending Association of the Philippines and its Debt with Dignity advocacy, Tala works with industry groups on responsible lending, antifraud measures, consumer protection and fair debt collection standards as it expands credit access.
BOI earns Hall of Fame recognition for financial reporting
BOI officials and accounting personnel receive the Agency’s third consecutive Outstanding eNGAS User Entity Award and its elevation to the GFMIC Hall of Fame.
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NOVEMBER 1, 2026 OTHEL V. CAMPOS, Issue Editor / email: extrastory2000@gmail.com
Department of Education secretary Sonny Angara (middle) underscores the importance of the safety of minors on virtual platforms
BUSINESS
Basyang Kid seeks full career in spoken poetry
POKEN-WORD artist Leandro Reyes, known professionally as The Basyang Kid, wants to build a sustainable full-time career in poetry while helping the art form develop a stronger footing in the Philippines. His efforts draw on two goals—growing a regular audience for live performances and establishing clearer standards for the practice. Unlike poetry meant primarily for the page, spoken-word poetry is written for performance, with cadence, tempo and volume shaping how a piece is delivered. Reyes, who began as a theater enthusiast, discovered the form through Radioactive Sago Project. He later started attending spoken-word events in small Makati cafes and bars. When Reyes entered the scene in 2015, spoken word was still a niche pursuit with a limited audience. The early gatherings drew people who shared an interest in the form, but few could have anticipated how much the scene would grow. “We had no idea it would gain national recognition. It was such a niche scene that we thought we were the only ones who enjoyed it. We just thought it was cool and we just kept coming back,” Reyes said. That small following eventually expanded. More people began attending performances, ticket sales picked up, and organizers gained access to larger venues. From a close-knit community, it began drawing wider public interest, Reyes recalled. Regular audience One of the projects that helped sustain the community was Third Thursdays, a monthly show that Reyes and fellow artists developed with venue partners. Fully Booked initially hosted the event before it moved to a Seltsam, a restobar in Makati,where audience growth eventually required another venue. The series returned to Fully Booked but outgrew that space after three months. It later held public ticketed performances at Globe’s office in Bonifacio Global City, moved to apparel brand Linya-Linya, and is now staged at Circuit Makati in partnership with Ayala Malls. T h e CO V I D - 1 9 p a n d e m i c interrupted that progress. Organizers lost sponsors after repeated postponements became unworkable, and they had to cancel the show. “We had like five years already in. Then, we were just gaining momentum. And now we’re starting this again. It felt heavy. But we did it anyway,” Reyes said. The team restarted Third Thursdays in 2022 and has held it monthly since then. Securing longterm venue arrangements shows the practical work behind sustaining a creative community: finding places to perform, attracting paying audiences and THE Board of Investments (BOI) has entered the Hall of Fame of the Government Financial Management Innovators Circle (GFMIC) after winning its third consecutive Outstanding Enhanced Electronic New Government Accounting System (eNGAS) User Entity Award for 2026. The award recognizes government agencies and local government units that submit complete and accurate eNGAS-generated consolidated financial repor ts within the deadlines set by the Commission on Audit. GFMIC inducted the BOI into its Hall of Fame during its 17th Annual National Convention and 2026 Membership Conference held September 22
maintaining partners who can support regular programming. Making art pay Reyes studied Psychology while preparing for a possible career in Medicine, then took a certificate course at the University of Asia and the Pacific on navigating freelance life as a creative. The course introduced him to Art Management and reinforced the need to treat creative work as an enterprise. A direct descendant of late playwright Severino Reyes, known for his pen name Lola Basyang, the younger Reyes wants to continue doing spoken-word poetry full-time, but believes that requires more than enthusiasm for the art form. “That’s why we’re looking for more than one way to have this full-time spoken-word artist lifestyle as a sustainable lifestyle,” Reyes said. He hopes spoken-word artistry will eventually be recognized as a viable full-time profession, rather than an activity artists must maintain alongside other jobs. Business connections and sponsorships are part of that effort. Reyes said support from partners has helped connect him with businesses, provide exposure, and offer guidance in an industry where he has few established models to follow. “Madalas, I’m just trying to guess my way through things,” he said, describing the difficulty of building a career in a field with limited local precedents. Although he believes he is the only one among his immediate contemporaries who remains a full-time spoken-word artist, Reyes said the work has not been a solo effort.
He is also part of Collaboratory Filipinos, a collective of artists from different groups and provinces who experiment with collaborative poetry and performance styles. Filipino spoken word Reyes is developing guidelines and working toward a textbook on slam poetry, the competitive format of spoken-word performance. He wants to give practitioners and audiences a clearer understanding of the form and provide local artists with a foundation for developing their craft. Part of that effort involves distinguishing spoken-word poetr y from theater monologues. Although both rely on performance, Reyes said they have different conventions. Spoken-word pieces are generally rehearsed and often memorized, but memorization is not a requirement. Establishing these distinctions, he said, would help clarify the form without restricting how artists interpret or develop it. “It’s not about gatekeeping or being elitist. We need to establish the fundamentals of spoken-word poetry first so we can develop the art form further and study it more seriously,” Reyes said. He sees the need for a stronger foundation in the scene’s history. Spoken word gained a small following around 2008 to 2010 before losing momentum as practitioners moved on. A new wave emerged around 2015, attracted wider attention and then dwindled before the pandemic disrupted live performances. Reyes worries that without a clearer understanding of the form, the local scene could repeat that cycle. Building a stronger local tradition, however, does not mean adopting foreign models wholesale. He pointed to established spoken-word groups abroad, including US-based Button Poetry, as sources of ideas that Filipino artists can study and adapt to their own cultural context. “Hindi lang copy-paste,” he said. “We take and then we re-internalize, I guess, to convert into a Filipino context. We own the Filipino spoken word.” The work comes with the uncertainty of developing an art form that has yet to establish firm conventions locally. But Reyes said the risk of trying to lead that effort is outweighed by the possibility of spoken-word poetry losing its direction. “The discomfort of not wanting to trailblaze is lower than the discomfort of the possibility of spoken-word poetry losing its tracks and losing its way over the next few years,” he said. Othel V. Campos
Spoken-word artist Leandro Reyes, popularly known as The Basyang Kid, captivates audiences with his powerful words and compelling performances.
to 24 at The Luxent Hotel in Quezon City. BOI Management Services executive director Fe L. Del Rosario, Financial and Administrative Service director Ian Dennis R. Baniqued, and Budget Division chief June M. Policarpio received the award for the agency. “Efficient industry development and investment promotion is supported by effective and prudent fiscal management. Our financial management systems help ensure that resources entrusted to the BOI are properly managed, accounted for, and aligned with the agency’s mandate,”Del Rosario said. The BOI said the recognition reflects the work of its accounting, budgeting, treasury,
procurement, information and communications technology, and other support units in maintaining accurate and timely financial reporting. The GFMIC is a nonprofit association of public financial management professionals that promotes transparency, accountability, productivity, and ICT-enabled innovations in government financial management. The BOI said the recognition reinforces its efforts to strengthen financial management and governance systems in support of its mandate to attract investments, generate jobs, and promote industry development.
BYD, ACMobility push EV safety education
BYD owners join an EV Safety Session to learn more about electric vehicle safety and emergency preparedness, building greater confidence on the road.
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AS more Filipinos explore electric mobility, access to reliable information on EV technology, safety, charging, and ownership costs is becoming increasingly important. Following its launch in August, ACMobility’s Drive Electric. EV Safety Program continued its rollout at the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS), helping EV owners, prospective buyers, fleet operators, and the wider public make informed decisions about electric mobility. For BYD, these efforts complement the support it provides to its growing customer base, including owner communities where drivers can share experiences, learn from one another, and better understand their vehicles. “We’re glad to see BYD owners building communities where they can learn from and support one another. We want to continue celebrating these groups by helping provide access to relevant information, knowledge, and support throughout the ownership journey. At the same time, listening to our owners gives us an opportunity to learn from their experiences and better understand their needs as we work to grow awareness of electrified mobility in the Philippines,” said Bob Palanca, Managing Director of
BYD Cars Philippines. As BYD’s vehicle lineup expands in the Philippines, so do the communities forming around its different models. From sharing practical ownership advice to joining activities with fellow drivers, these groups give owners a space to exchange experiences, learn more about their vehicles, and help others navigate the shift to electrified mobility. For many members, the groups began with a simple goal: helping fellow owners. Aaron Estabillo, a BYD Sealion 6 owner and one of the group’s moderator team, says the community allows drivers to learn from one another’s experiences. “The most common benefit is you get to see everything from everyone’s point of view. I learn from other owners the things I may have missed myself,” he said. These exchanges help owners better understand their vehicles, from exploring features to comparing everyday driving experiences and running costs. For prospective buyers, they also offer firsthand perspectives to consider alongside professional reviews and dealership consultations.
ON THE ROAD
| NOVEMBER 1, 2026
EDGARD HILARIO, Issue Editor / edgardhilario@yahoo.com
VinFast to launch All-New VF8 in PH this November
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OING farther between charges is about to become a reality for Filipino EV drivers. VinFast Philippines has confirmed that the All-New VF8 is coming to the country this November, with a claimed range of up to 480 kilometers on a single charge under the NEDC testing cycle.
The upcoming arrival marks another step in VinFast Philippines’ growing presence in the local electric vehicle market, expanding its lineup with a new-generation electric SUV designed for modern everyday driving. Following its recognition by the Philippine Department of Energy as an electric vehicle for the local market, the All-New VF8 is set to bring a fresh take on electric mobility to Filipino drivers. A first look at longer-range electric driving Powered by a 60.13-kWh battery, the All-New VF8 is rated for up to 480 kilometers of NEDC range. For Filipino drivers, that
2026 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup Drivers
2026 TGR Philippine Cup concludes thrilling season, GR 86 racing class announced for 2027
can mean greater flexibility for daily commutes, weekend trips, and longer journeys, with less need to plan around frequent charging stops. The All-New VF8 also introduces VinFast’s latest “Tech Fluid” design language, giving the electric SUV a more contemporary and refined look. Inside, an updated cabin combines technology and comfort, while a suite of driverassistance and safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-assistance features, collision warning, blind spot warning and a high-definition 360-degree camera system, adds confidence behind the wheel. Built for the road ahead As more Filipino motorists consider making the switch to electric, practicality remains an
important part of the decision. The VF8’s combination of longer driving range, refreshed design, and intelligent technology offers an early glimpse of how VinFast is evolving its electric SUV lineup for everyday drivers. The new-generation VF8 also reflects VinFast’s broader push to expand its presence in the Philippine EV market, giving consumers more choices as electric mobility becomes increasingly accessible. Details such as the VF8’s final Philippine-market specifications, variants, pricing, and availability will be revealed closer to its official debut this November . With an updated look, new-generation technology, and more room to go, the VF8 is ready to take Filipino drivers further into the future of electric mobility.
Better sales, service reshape PH auto undustry FILIPINO vehicle owners are reporting better purchase and ownership experiences, according to Differential Singapore’s second annual Philippines Customer eXperience Index (CXI) Study. The industry’s Overall Customer Experience Index rose eight points, from 856 in 2025 to 864 in 2026. Behind the increase is a more striking story: sales and after-sales service are improving substantially faster than satisfaction with the vehicles themselves. Majority of the 11 automotive brands assessed in both years recorded higher Sales and Service Index scores. Across the industry, the Sales Experience Index increased by 24 points and the Service Experience Index by 21 points, underscoring the growing importance of dealership interactions in shaping customer perceptions. The independent study evaluates customer experience across three pillars: vehicle sales, after-sales service and product satisfaction. It examines the touchpoints that matter throughout the vehicle purchase and ownership journey: Sales and Purchase Experience covers the customer journey from initial inquiry to vehicle delivery, including pre-sales consultation, dealership facilities, salesperson interaction, vehicle selection, price negotiation and postsales follow-up After-Sales Service Quality evaluates service reliability, communication and transparency, convenience, pricing fairness and the professionalism of dealership personnel Product Satisfaction examines vehicle styling, driving performance, interior comfort, ergonomics and user interface, storage practicality, entertainment systems and safety features. Together, these dimensions offer a broader view of automotive customer experience—helping consumers look beyond specifications and giving manufacturers actionable insight into where customer expectations are changing. “The encouraging news is that customer experience is improving across the Philippine automotive industry, particularly where customers interact directly with dealerships,” said Sigfred M. Doloroso, Country Manager, Differential Singapore. “As competition intensifies, manufacturers and dealer networks are raising the bar for sales and service. That is good news for Filipino motorists, who stand to benefit from better support before and after buying a vehicle.” Key Industry Insights Dealership Experience Leads the Gains, While Product Satisfaction Largely Holds Steady: The biggest industrywide improvements came from Sales (+24 points) and After-Sales Service (+21 points), compared with just two points for Product Satisfaction. Within Sales, Pre-Sales Information and Consultation (+33 points), Salesperson
Interaction (+32 points) and Dealership Facilities (+27 points) posted notable gains. In Service, both Service Quality and Personnel and Facilities improved by 25 points, while Convenience and Accessibility rose by 22 points. Product results were more mixed: Interior Design and Comfort improved by seven points, while Safety and Security Features declined by five points and Vehicle Sound Systems by two points. For OEMs, the message is clear: stronger dealership execution is lifting customer evaluations, but product experience remains a critical area for differentiation. Chinese Brands Narrow the Gap as Customer Experience Competition Intensifies: Chinese automotive brands recorded the largest year-on-year gain among the four country-of-origin groups assessed, improving 50 points from 839 in 2025 to 889 in 2026. That moved them from fourth to second place, ahead of Japanese and Korean brands on numerical scores. American brands remained in front at 894, but their lead over Chinese brands narrowed from 29 points to just five. Korean brands improved by 24 points and Japanese brands by three. The changing scores suggest that competition among automotive brands is increasingly about the full purchase and ownership journey—not just vehicle features or price.
THE 2026 season of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup has come to a thrilling close. Alain Gabriel Alzona from Toyota General Santos – Davao Racing, Bern Zaragoza from Resultado Racing, and Iñigo Anton from Obengers Racing have emerged as the champions in their respective classes after four grueling and heated weekends, with the fourth and final race weekend happening last October 24 at the Clark International Speedway in Mabalacat, Pampanga. Vios one-make race cars (OMR) battled it out in the Super Sporting, Sporting and Legacy Classes, while the Tamaraw OMRs went wheel-towheel in the Tamaraw Class. The penultimate sprint race, which awarded double points, saw intense action in the Super Sporting Class, as Joaquin Garrido, who started at P2, was able to secure the lead as early as the first turn. A few laps later, Red Diwa was sent careening off course into the grass with an errant collision in the rear from Garrido but made a miraculous recovery by driving back into the track, regaining his position. Garrido later encountered trouble and had to regroup at the pit, managing to reenter later in the race at the bottom position. Meanwhile, the penultimate Tamaraw Class race was tight, except for a climactic incident in the final lap, where Raymond Cudala veered off course at a corner while battling Oliver Aquino. That made him give up the lead he was protecting throughout the whole race, resulting in David Enzo Ison crossing the finish line in first place. Ison, however, was later relegated to third place due to a time penalty for exceeding track limits. Race Weekend 4 of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup was more than just a series of races, as it was a can’t-miss experience for racing and car enthusiasts. Beyond the sprint races, it held huge moments such as the unveiling of the GR 86 OMR through a track showcase for the public, and the announcement of the GR 86 Class for the 2027 season. TMP President Masando Hashimoto
also revealed that Rookie Racing Garage Manila, a home for people who love cars, will be opening in the country. “Despite the challenges we faced this year, we continued to race with a purpose. Throughout the 2026 season, we learned, tested, improved, and pushed ourselves forward. As always, we use motorsports as a platform to help shape a better future for mobility,” shared Hashimoto. “While this season may be ending, our journey is entering an exciting new chapter. We look forward to welcoming a new generation of drivers and enthusiasts as we expand our racing platform to three onemake race classes: the Vios, the Tamaraw, and now, the GR86,” he added. Aside from the track activities, fans tried their hand at the sim racing rigs, drove remote control cars in a miniature off-road track, checked out official GAZOO Racing merchandise, and purchased car parts and accessories for their rides at the sponsors’ booths. Co m i n g o f f t h e h e e l s o f a successful 2026 season, Toyota Motor Philippines continues to push the limits of innovation for the better— and this year’s edition would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of the racers, their teams, partners, and the fervent support of the fans.
Alain Gabriel Alzona emerges as champion in the Super Sporting Class
Iñigo Anton takes championship in first season of the Tamaraw Class
TMP President Masando Hashimoto during the press conference
VXON brings music, personal stories to big screen
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Issue Editor JASPER VALDEZ, Writer email: lifeandshow. manilastandard@gmail.com
By Angelica Villanueva
SHOWBIZ
P-pop boy group VXON headlines ‘P-POP: Beyond the Stage,’ an event combining a big-screen feature on the group’s journey, live performances and fan interactions
“MONSTER of P-pop” VXON is giving fans a closer look at the experiences behind its music as the five-member act headlines a new entertainment event combining personal stories, live performances, and fan interactions in a cinema setting. Composed of C13, Sam, Franz, Vince, and Patrick, the group will lead the inaugural edition of P-POP: Beyond the Stage on Nov. 14 at Gateway Cineplex 18 Cinema 11 in Gateway Mall 2. Organized by L-Squared Productions PH, the event introduces a format that allows audiences to watch an artist’s story on the big screen before seeing them perform live and meeting them through fan activities.
By Angelica Villanueva
F
ROM a former K-pop idol and a beauty queen to an architecture graduate, an overseas worker and a science content creator, the latest season of Pinoy Big Brother: Collab Edition 3.0 brings together personalities with different experiences and ambitions. The reality show opened its doors to 16 housemates on Oct. 24, with eight representing GMA Network’s Kapuso camp and eight from ABS-CBN’s Kapamilya group. The lineup combines established entertainment figures with aspiring talents and digital creators who are stepping into a competition that puts their personalities and relationships under public scrutiny. Among the Kapuso housemates are actress-singer Mikee Quintos and beauty queen-actress Winwyn Marquez, two personalities with years of experience in their respective fields. Known as “Ang Independent Archi-tista ng Manila,” Mikee first caught viewers’ attention as Lira in the 2016 fantasy series Encantadia. She went on to star in Onanay, The Gift, and Apoy Sa Dugo. Mikee also makes music, with songs such as “Awit Ni Lira” and “Panaginip” among her releases. In 2025, she graduated with an architecture degree from the University of Santo Tomas while continuing to work as an actress and singer. Winwyn, known as “Ang Reyna Mama ng Parañaque,” won Reina Hispanoamericana in 2017, becoming the first Filipina to claim the international title. She placed first runner-up at Miss Universe Philippines 2025 and has appeared in television series and films, including Mulawin vs. Ravena. She is also a mother and a Philippine Navy Reserve Cadet. The Kapuso lineup also includes Filipino-American model-actor Anthony Constantino, who has modeled for Louis Vuitton and Francis Libiran, and boxer-actor Raheel Bhyria, known for his roles in Abot-Kamay na Pangarap and Mga Batang Riles. The remaining Kapuso contestants bring experiences beyond show business. Bela Arcal worked as a factory worker
FROM pop-punk anthems that defined the 2000s to OPM hits and appearances by beloved Korean stars, November has plenty in store for the Filipino crowd. With concerts from longtime music favorites, and fan events featuring familiar faces from K-pop and K-dramas, there are plenty of reasons to mark the calendar for a month of live music and entertainment. Here are 12 concerts and shows worth checking out this November, especially for the trentahins who grew up with these artists and their music. Global acts taking the stage 5 Seconds of Summer When: Nov. 11-12 The Australian pop-rock band brings its Everyone’s a Star! World Tour Asia 2026 to the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay. Fans can look forward to revisiting songs such as “She Looks So Perfect” and “Youngblood.” Simple Plan When: Nov. 25 The Canadian pop-punk band returns to Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City for its Bigger Than You Think! Tour. Hits such as “Welcome to My Life” and “Perfect” make this a nostalgia pick for fans of 2000s rock. LANY When: Nov. 7-8 The alternative pop duo brings its Soft World
give attendees an opportunity to meet the group. L-Squared Productions PH chief operating officer Ailene Llado explained that the concept was developed to give artists another platform for sharing their experiences with audiences. “We wanted to create an experience where the screen is only the beginning. Beyond the Stage gives artists a space to share more of who they are, bring that story to life through performance, and connect with the fans who have been part of it,” Liado shared. The production company also intends to feature different artists in future editions, with each event built around the featured act’s own experiences and music. The VXON event will have three schedules at 1:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m. Tickets are priced at ₱1,499.
Meet the new housemates of ‘Bahay ni Kuya’
The Kapuso lineup combines showbiz veterans and newcomers, each bringing a distinct story and personal ambition to ‘Pinoy Big Brother: Collab Edition 3.0’
in Japan after starting as a mall sales clerk in the Philippines. Nicole Fortuna built an online following through lifestyle, beauty, and travel content filmed in Bohol. Ethan Benares is a student-athlete at La Salle from Bacolod who enjoys camping and water sports. Meanwhile, Lans Nagal has built a large following through educational videos about science and animal behavior. The Kapamilya housemates include established entertainers and newcomers looking to make a name for themselves. Gehlee Dangca, introduced as “Ang Darling K-Pop Idol ng Las Piñas,” joins the competition after performing with the girl group UNIS. Her experience in the Korean music industry gives her a different background from housemates who have worked mainly in Philippine television or built their following online. Cianne Dominguez, known as “Ang Madlang Babe ng Antipolo,” brings television experience as an It’s Showtime host and former “Sexy Babe” segment winner. Meanwhile, actor Robbie Jaworski joins as “Ang Dedicated Son ng Pasig.” The son of former PBA player Dodot Jaworski and champion equestrienne and former ac-
The ‘trentahin’ watchlist
12 concerts and shows to catch this November Tour to the Philippine Arena in Bulacan. Known for “ILYSB” and “Malibu Nights,” LANY remains a favorite among Pinoy listeners drawn to songs about love and heartbreak. My Chemical Romance When: Nov. 14 The American rock band takes its Southeast Asia tour to the Philippine Arena. The rescheduled concert gives fans another chance to hear songs such as “Welcome to the Black Parade” and “Helena.” OPM favorites Yeng Constantino When: Nov. 7 The singer celebrates 20 years in the music industry with Biyaheng Bente at Smart Araneta Coliseum. Her cata-
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New season, new house
Eight Kapamilya contestants enter ‘Bahay ni Kuya’ with backgrounds in acting, music, pageantry and online content creation
By Angelica VIllanueva
For VXON, the event is an opportunity to share moments that audiences rarely see during concerts or other public appearances. “This time, hindi lang performances namin ang makikita ng VIXIES. They’ll get to see more of our stories—kung saan kami nagsimula, what happens behind the scenes, and some of the experiences that shaped VXON,” the group shared. The members also expressed excitement about spending time with their supporters, collectively known as VIXIES, particularly through the event’s Hi-Touch and group photo activities. The production follows three segments called “Watch,” “Feel,” and “Connect.” The screening will feature behind-the-scenes footage, exclusive materials, and accounts of the artists’ experiences. A live performance will follow, while the fan interaction segment will
NOVEMBER 1, 2026 |
log includes “Hawak Kamay,” “Salamat,” and “Chinito” songs familiar to generations of OPM listeners. Jona When: Nov. 14 The vocalist celebrates her birthday with Chapters at New Frontier Theater in Quezon City. The benefit concert traces her musical journey through songs and storytelling. From Seoul with love So Ji-sub When: Nov. 5 The Korean superstar is bringing his Soulmate The Timeless Asia fan meeting tour to New Frontier Theater, offering fans a chance to connect with the star known for Oh My Venus, Master’s Sun, and Agent Kim Reactivated.
tress Mikee Cojuangco, he has followed his family’s entertainment and sports connections into acting through Star Magic. Calix Esguerra, introduced as “Ang Rampanalong Apo ng Pampanga,” adds pageant and modeling experience to the group. He won Mister Teen of the Universe Philippines 2025. The other Kapamilya housemates come from different backgrounds. Nathan Garcia, who hails from Cebu, is a digital creator with an interest in music. Primo Alterado, known as “Ang Kwelang Creator ng Taguig,” is a content creator who brings his online presence to the reality show. Jeo Ong, introduced as “Ang Adventure BoyNext-Door ng Palawan,” joins the competition with his interest in adventure. Shea Valerio, known as “Ang Miss Ma-Beauting Anak ng Rizal,” holds the Binibining Rizal 2025 Tourism title. The season brings together housemates from GMA Network and ABS-CBN, continuing the two networks’ collaboration. “Pinoy Big Brother: Collab Edition 3.0.” airs everyday on GMA, Kapuso Stream, ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube Channel, and iWant.
Lee Je-hoon When: Nov. 7 The Taxi Driver star is meeting his Filipino fans at the World Trade Center Tent in Pasay for his Our 20th Moment fan meeting; Sandara Park When: Nov. 7 The 2NE1 member returns to the Philippines for LG XBOOM’s The Future Sounds Powerful event at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, alongside James Reid and YGIG. Nayeon of TWICE When: Nov. 14 The K-pop singer is joining the opening celebration of CHAGEE’s flagship store at Bonifacio High Street in Taguig. The appearance includes opportunities for fans to meet her through brand promotions. Lee Min-hyuk When: Nov. 21 The BTOB member, also known as HUTA, brings his solo concert to SM North EDSA SkyDome in Quezon City. Gong Yoo When: Nov. 21 The actor known for Coffee Prince, Goblin, Train to Busan, and Squid Game is set to meet his Filipino fans at Smart Araneta Coliseum for The Long Take Asia fan meeting tour.
B4 | NOVEMBER 1, 2026
RANDY M. CALUAG, Issue Editor
Golf with a heart: LOVE tournament set at Wack Wack F
OR one day at Wack Wack, the invitation to golfers will extend beyond chasing birdies and turning in a good score. It will be a chance to make connections and support a gathering built around a shared desire to make a difference.
The LOVE Golf Tournament is a purpose-driven golf tournament that brings together golfers, business leaders, professionals, corporate sponsors, and distinguished guests to create lasting impact.
The LOVE Golf Tournament takes place on April 7, 2027, at Wack Wack Golf & Country Club in Mandaluyong City, bringing together golf enthusiasts, business leaders, professionals and corporate supporters for an event that pairs competition with a sense of purpose. “More than just a game. It’s a purpose,” is the message behind the tournament, which has opened early registration and payment for a field limited to 288 players. Organizers have allotted 144 places each fo r t h e m o r n i n g a n d a f te r n o o n flights. Those numbers already i n c l u d e s l o t s fo r c o r p o r a t e sponsors’ representatives and distinguished guests, making early registration advisable for golfers hoping to secure their preferred session. The event’s appeal rests on the opportunities golf creates beyond the scorecard. Hours spent sharing a fairway can turn introductions into friendships and conversations into partnerships— connections that organizers hope will carry the tournament’s spirit beyond a single day. Its call is simple: “Play with purpose. Serve with
love. Create lasting impact.” While organizers have yet to identify specific beneficiaries or detail how the tournament’s proceeds will be used, they describe the gathering as an effort to unite people who want to contribute to a greater cause. The registration fee is P15,000 per player, covering green fees, golf cart and caddie fees, admission to the victory party, and an exclusive tournament dry-fit shirt, cap and sleeve. The victory party will give participants another opportunity to gather after their rounds, extending the day’s fellowship beyond the final putt. Interested players may contact The LOVE G olf Tour nament through its Facebook Messenger account or via Viber at 09673812644. Registrants must provide their full name, contact number, email address, preferred flight and company or organization, if applicable. Morning and afternoon preferences remain subjec t to availabilit y and confirmation. Organizers will provide an official payment link or QR code after the initial inquiry. Players must then submit proof of payment, together with their name and contact number, for verification. Registration and flight assignments will be confirmed once payment has been checked. With places limited, the invitation is already out for golfers to plan ahead—and bring something more than their clubs to Wack Wack: a willingness to connect, participate and give meaning to a day on the course.
Young golfers bring Halloween fun to Intramuros fairways COSTUMES added color to the competition as 55 young golfers took to the fairways of Club Intramuros Golf Course for a Halloween-themed Philippine Junior Golfers League tournament. Playing under the lights alongside Intramuros’ historic walls, the participants combined competitive golf with festive fun, enjoying the cool evening weather before gathering for a fellowship dinner and awards ceremony. Jaicee Cervantes topped the Class D1 girls’
division for players aged 9 to 10 with 46 points, finishing ahead of Amara Malijan’s 42 and Jehanne Mendoza’s 40. Kiara Verrano scored 35, while Tara Salazar posted 30. S ebast i an Dar j uan r uled t he boys’ competition in the same age group with 42 points. Gavreez Naguiat followed with 12, while Jaime Capdevilla registered 10. The Class D2 girls’ contest produced a close finish, with Maria Solenn Ceniza scoring
Winners in their Halloween get-ups at the Intramuros Golf.
23 points to edge Juliana de Borja by one. Georgina Rome Custodia placed next with 21, followed by Kallista Eve Custodia with 20 and Olivia Machuca with 13. Wang Ziyue prevailed on countback over Carlos Caballero after both finished with 20 points in the Class E boys’ division for ages 7 to 8. Karl Procis Aquino scored 14, Emmet Reyes had 12 and Jaime Cervantes tallied 11. Skylar Muñoz and Elijah Zachari Misador each posted nine, with Muñoz taking the higher placing on countback. Amelia Adrianna Sanchez captured the Class E girls’ crown with 23 points, ahead of Namie Tagami’s 21. Alexa Machuca scored 13, Ava Reyes had 12, Vania Lauren Lim finished with nine and Amihan Villegas recorded three. In Class F for players aged 6 and under, Alon Malijan won the boys’ title with 22 points, followed by Franco Andres Ambayec with 17 and Theo Jose Nuñez with 11. Marian Manalo led the Class F girls with 31 points. Calla Salazar finished second with 18, followed by Rachael Chao with 15 and Ione Parayno with four. Raphael Andrei de Mesa claimed the Class C boys’ title for ages 11 to 12 with 33 points. Moemen Shaik edged Kinno Tiongson on countback for second after both scored 24, while Treyvon Caro finished with 19. Kier Zeb Verrano topped the Class B boys’ division for ages 13 to 14 with 33 points, ahead of Kyrie Lucas Cervantes’ 27. Samantha Cenza won the girls’ title with 36. Lorenzo Dilag took the Class A boys’ crown for ages 15 to 18 with 23 points, while Jaimee Cervantes led the girls with 22. Ishi Alaban scored 19 and Tatiana Batalla posted 17.
Spooky Friday Golf tees off Nov. 13 at Tagaytay Highlands HALLOWEEN fun will spill onto the fairways when Spooky Friday Golf 2026 unfolds on Nov. 13 at Tagaytay H i g h l a n d s, b r i n g i n g t o g e t h e r golfers for a day of competition, costumes, and fellowship. The tournament will use a four-man scramble format, with participants encouraged to form their own teams and wear their best Halloween-inspired golf attire. Tr o p h i e s , r a f f l e p r i z e s a n d Halloween surprises await players, adding a festive touch to the action as organizers invite participants to
“play for a purpose.” Slots are limited for the event, which combines team competition with opportunities for camaraderie. Organizers previously offered early bird rates of P7,000 for members and P8,000 for nonmembers until Sept. 30. Interested participants should contact organizers for current registration fees and slot availability. Registration is available through https://forms.gle/ eLFx7eiqdmQUmRWUA. For inquiries, contact LJ via text or Viber at 0976312-6539.
Manila Downtown Y’s charity golf cup to benefit Baseco community GOLFERS will tee off for a cause when the inaugural Manila Downtown Y’s Charity Golf Cup unfolds on Nov. 17 at Hallow Ridge Golf Inc. in San Pedro, Laguna. Organized by the Manila Downtown Y’s Men Club, the tournament aims to support the Baseco community through its beneficiary, Breakthrough in Christ Church, while bringing together golf enthusiasts for a day of competition, fellowship, and service. Tee time is set for 7 a.m., with organizers inviting players, business partners and supporters to take part in the event and its ceremonial tee-off. The registration fee of P5,500 per player covers green fee, a shared golf cart, lunch, raffle participation, and the awards and fellowship program. Beyond the action on the fairways, the tournament offers participants an opportunity to build connections while contributing to a community cause. Organizers are also welcoming sponsors and donors to help make the inaugural staging a success and extend its support to the intended beneficiaries. Interested players may register through https:// forms.gle/f5UzQoSxpMcMXfHDA or scan the QR code on the event poster. For registration and sponsorship inquiries, contact the Manila Downtown Y’s Men Club at 0992-681-7055 or 0918-913-8090.
By Angelica Villanueva
T
HE return of ube drinks and a new selection of tumblers and bags mark the holiday season at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (CBTL) Philippines, with the brand bringing Filipino flavors and its annual rewards program to stores starting Oct. 23. The seasonal menu features two ube beverages, the Pure Ube Ice Blended and Ube Latte, available for a limited time until Jan. 10, 2027. The Pure Ube Ice Blended combines ube and milk into a frosty drink without coffee, while the Ube Latte pairs the purple yam flavor with espresso and milk, topped with a salted cream cap. “We love Filipino flavors all around the world. So, you know, what better way to celebrate the holidays but with this flavor,” said Louise Yabut, associate digital & communications lead of CBTL Philippines. The drinks will arrive alongside The Giving Collection 2026, the brand’s holiday rewards program, which offers four items for customers who collect stamps through beverage purchases. The collection includes the 32-ounce Caramel Swirl tumbler, featuring a swirl design, carry handle and silicone boot; the 25-ounce Matcha Frost tumbler, which allows sipping through a straw or directly from the lid; and the 27-ounce Mocha Merry tumbler, with a metallic finish and retractable handle. The fourth item is the Everywear Tote in Deep Moss, a new colorway of the brand’s multipurpose bag. Designed for everyday use, it features a padded laptop sleeve, a tumbler holder and several pockets. Customers need 20 stamps to redeem an item, consisting of 16 stamps from regular beverages and four from holiday drinks. Stamps may be collected from Oct. 23 to Jan. 10, while redemption runs until March 10, 2027, at participating CBTL stores nationwide. Beyond the holiday rewards, the program also supports the Real LIFE Foundation, which provides educational assistance, character formation and leadership develop-
CRAVINGS
NOVEMBER 1, 2026 |
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JOYCE PANGCO PAÑARES, Issue Editor / email: joyce.panares@gmail.com
CBTL brings back ube drinks, holiday rewards collection
Pure Ube Ice Blended
The Giving Collection 2026 offers four items for Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf customers
ment for underprivileged youth. “Every redemption helps the Real LIFE Foundation and our scholars,” Yabut said, highlighting the program’s charitable component. The annual collection gives customers an opportunity to redeem seasonal merchan-
dise while supporting the foundation’s work with young people. With the return of ube beverages and the launch of its holiday rewards, CBTL is positioning the season around familiar Filipino flavors, gift-giving and its continuing partnership with the foundation.
Ube Latte
Black Truffle & Bolzico Beef: A new season of buffet indulgence
Fresh introduces Bolzico Beef to its international buffet selection in November
Linguine pasta with pancetta, pecorino cheese and black truffle shavings
THIS season, Fresh presents two distinctive culinary highlights that invite guests to discover new dimensions of buffet indulgence. Running through December, “À la Minute, With Truffle” pays homage to the luxurious French black truffle through a selection of freshly prepared creations. In November, Fresh welcomes Bolzico Beef through a special collaboration with Argentinian entrepreneur and content creator, Nico Bolzico. Together, these seasonal offerings put premium ingredients at the forefront, inviting guests to explore the distinct flavors of black truffle and Argentinian grass-fed beef within Fresh’s signature seafood and expansive international buffet selection. At the heart of À la Minute, With Truffle is a dedicated live station where the unmistakable aroma of black truffle instantly draws guests in. Flown in weekly from France and meticulously prepared in batches, the prized ingredient lends its distinguished earthy depth and delicate aroma to familiar favorites, transforming each dish into a more indulgent expression of culinary craft. The experience begins with Black Truffle Mushroom Soup, a velvety blend of wild mushrooms, cream, and black truffle paste. Among the highlights is a classic Black Truffle Risotto, where creamy Arborio rice is enriched with parmesan and white wine, then finished with generous shavings of black truffle. For pasta lovers, Black Truffle Shrimp Pasta brings together seared shrimp, parmesan and penne in a rich truffle cream sauce, while Linguini with truffle cream combines savory pancetta and pecorino with the ingredient’s earthy complexity. Truffle also finds its way into elegant salad variations, offering a lighter interpretation of its aromatic character. Another must-try is Solaire Resort’s house truffle butter, served alongside freshly baked Focaccia, baguettes, and soft rolls. For an added touch of luxury, gourmands
Solaire Resort’s Director of Culinary Marcelo Urresti and Nico Bolzico mark the season’s culinary offerings at Fresh, featuring black truffle, signature Bolzico Beef cuts, and freshly made empanadas
may request black truffle over Fresh’s signature lobster and other selected dishes, with generous shavings added according to their preference. This finishing touch brings the ingredient directly to the table, allowing guests to personalize each bite and savor the prized delicacy. In November, Fresh introduces a dedicated Bolzico Beef carving station, bringing the flavors of Argentina into the heart of the buffet. Premium cuts, including ribeye, short rib, and chuck roll, are carved and grilled for guests to enjoy, highlighting the robust taste and quality of grass-fed beef from Argentina’s renowned pasture-raised farming traditions. Complementing the carving and grilling station is a visiting Bolzico Beef empanada cart, serving house-made Argentinian pastries generously filled with savory Bolzico Beef. From beef straight off the grill to the comforting taste of empanadas, the collaboration invites guests to experience the bold flavors and flair behind
Nico Bolzico’s sought-after brand. Solaire Resort’s exclusive partnership with Bolzico Beef brings together a shared passion for quality ingredients, culinary heritage, and creative approaches to refined dining. The series began with a specially curated October menu at Finestra, continues with the November showcase at Fresh, and culminates on December 12 at the much-anticipated Mega Brunch, bringing together five of Solaire Resort’s restaurants for a large-than-life preChristmas brunch celebration. (For inquiries and reservations, call +632 8888 8888 or visit https://sec.solaireresort.com/offers/ dining/fresh-black-truffle, https://sec.solaireresort.com/solaire-bolzico-collab, and https://sec. solaireresort.com/festive-mega-brunch. Solaire Rewards members enjoy up to 20% off dining, while new members who sign up for Solaire Rewards may receive 30% off their first dining bill)
Culinary Showcase 2.0 features interns from Westin Manila’s mentor-mentee program THIS November 23, 2026, The Westin Manila proudly presents the second edition of its Culinary Showcase, a one-night-only charity dinner organized and hosted by its restaurant and culinary interns as the culmination of their Mentor-Mentee Program under the banner of Marriott Next Gen Worldwide Business Councils - Philippines. Established by the hotel team in 2025, this initiative is designed to provide food and beverage interns an early insight into the
industry and prepare them for their future roles by teaching them the fundamentals of running a restaurant and mounting a dining event. The in-depth training with the hotel’s seasoned and award-winning team covers various disciplines and specializations, including menu development, creating a market list, costing, cooking and presentation, booking management, guest engagement, service, and more. “This is a unique and comprehensive
program focused on talent, which is a valuable asset in the hospitality industry,” said Executive Chef Kiko Santiago. “It is also part of our efforts to give back to the community and create a positive impact through various development programs and opportunities.” The mentorship program is a voluntary participation on top of the regular internship the students applied for. This allows interns more time to focus on their specific roles and development areas.
Representing General Santos, an amusebouche of tuna kilawin with dayap-vinegar caviar pearls in panipuri
A sweet ending inspired by Batangas: turon saba, coconut mousse, black sesame, crémeux, caramel latik, vanillalime, and ice cream
Scallion wrapped duo of barramundi, eggplant ensalada, onion XO Gelli and calamansi beurre blanc banners Manila
The charity dinner on November 23, 2026, Monday, will mark the completion of their mentorship program, putting weeks of intensive skills training into real work. The hotel’s culinary and service teams will take a step back and stay on the sidelines to let the young ones own the spotlight and shine. Seasonal Tastes will serve as the stage where guests can see the interns in action—preparing, plating, serving, and sharing the story of each dish. Offered at P2,900 nett per person, the 5-course degustation will take diners across
various regions in the Philippines through classic flavors reimagined with contemporary techniques and creative composition. “It is our honor to be part of their journey, to help them grow into their roles, realize their full potential, and gain more confidence as they carve out their future and career,” said Santiago. “We strongly support talent development in the industry, just as we continue to innovate and elevate dining experiences in our hotel.” (Book a table via https://qrco.de/CulinaryShowcase)
Makati’s luxury towers, Palawan’s island escape win top honors in global awards
C4 | NOVEMBER 1, 2026
HOSPITALITY
NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer email: lifeandshow.manilastandard.gmail.com
Park Central Towers earns recognition for its architecture, landscaped spaces and prime location at the corner of Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue
Lagen Island in El Nido receives praise for its renewed resort experience, Filipino design influences and setting amid Bacuit Bay’s limestone cliffs and rainforest
Properties including Best Western Plus Metro Clark gain access to a wider booking and loyalty platform while retaining their own identity and local character
BWH Hotels unites 4,000 properties under WorldHotels in major global rebrand BWH Hotels is bringing more than 4,000 hotels and 18 brands under one global identity and loyalty program in a major transformation designed to strengthen its international presence and make it easier for travelers to discover its properties. WorldHotels will serve as the group’s global masterbrand, connecting its portfolio through a unified platform, enhanced digital capabilities, and a new loyalty program. The move aims to help independently operated hotels compete globally while giving guests access to a wider selection of accommodations. Individual properties will retain their identities, signage, and distinctive character, with local hospitality remaining central to the strategy. “We have a hotel for virtually every travel occasion, but many travelers only know a portion of our portfolio,” said Larry Cuculic, president and chief executive officer of WorldHotels. He said the new structure would make the group’s offerings easier to understand while helping hotel owners reach international markets. One rewards program for 70 million members A major part of the transformation is WorldHotels Rewards, which will merge Best Western Rewards and WorldHotels Rewards into one program serving approximately 70 million members. The new scheme will have three membership tiers while retaining benefits such as status matching, member rates, and points that never expire. Members will keep their existing points value and gain more ways to earn rewards across the expanded portfolio. Further details are scheduled
for release on Nov. 16. Joelle Park, chief marketing officer of WorldHotels, said consumer research and member feedback guided the development of a simpler rewards experience. The company is also launching a new website and redesigned mobile app. At the center of the upgrade is a discovery platform developed using more than 10,000 hours of insights from hotel teams worldwide. It will help travelers find hotels, neighborhood recommendations, and local experiences while managing bookings and loyalty accounts. The platform is also expected to increase direct bookings and improve visibility for hotel owners. The group will organize its upscale and luxury properties under the WorldHotels Collection, comprising six categories: WorldHotels Luxury, Elite, Distinctive, Crafted, Backdrop, and Residences. The collection gives independent hotels access to a global hospitality network’s distribution, technology, and commercial reach while letting them retain their individual character. WorldHotels Residences combines private homeownership with luxury hospitality services, while WorldHotels Backdrop focuses on distinctive destinations with immersive natural surroundings and upscale accommodations. Ron Pohl, president of WorldHotels Collection, said the strategy would help independent properties expand their international reach while preserving the personalized experiences that set them apart. The overhaul aims to make hotel discovery more connected for travelers while giving owners access to a wider global audience.
Hotels such as bai Hotel Cebu remain individually operated as the group brings thousands of properties into a more connected international network
F
LYING to Coron usually involves a layover in Manila, but my recent trip for a media event proved that the journey can be just as memorable as the destination.
AYALA Land Inc. has earned recognition in two premium property segments, with Park Central Towers and Lagen Island topping Robb Report Philippines’ 2026 Best of the Best selections for real estate and travel, respectively. Published on Oct. 15, the awards named Park Central Towers, developed under Ayala Land Premier, Best of the Best in real estate, while Lagen Island received the distinction in travel. Robb Report Philippines cited Park Central Towers’ architecture, landscaped areas, residential amenities, and Makati location. The 15,860-square-meter property features two residential towers, gardens, four sky terraces per tower, approximately 6,900 square meters of amenities and common areas, and a three-story retail podium. Located at the intersection of Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue, the development sits across Ayala Triangle Gardens, near major commercial and lifestyle destinations. Meanwhile, Lagen Island was recognized for its renewed resort experience amid the limestone cliffs, rainforest, and waters of Bacuit Bay in El Nido, Palawan. The magazine cited the resort’s transformation, which includes fewer rooms and a wider beach, as well as its Filipino architecture, craftsmanship, and Indigenous design references. Guest activities include open-air beach movie nights, creative sessions with local artists, and the preparation of small bamboo boats as offerings of gratitude to the sea. The recognition adds to Lagen Island’s international accolades. In September 2026, the resort received Two MICHELIN Keys in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection, alongside three other Ayala Land Hospitality properties. The latest distinctions underscore Ayala Land’s presence in two premium markets: high-end residential development in Makati and destination hospitality in Palawan.
Fly me to Coron
Thanks to Sunlight Air, our group departed directly from Clark International Airport in Pampanga, bypassing the usual chaos of the capital. The flight was refreshingly seamless, offering a glimpse into why this boutique carrier is quickly becoming a favorite for island-hoppers.
Direct service from Clark gives travelers an easier route to Coron, with Discovery Coron on Dimakya Island serving as a base for exploring northern Palawan
Dee-tails
Ardee de los Angeles
Clark International Airport serves as the main departure point for the carrier’s turboprop routes to Coron, Siargao, Boracay and Tablas
From the moment we boarded, the “boutique” promise was evident. Unlike the cramped, no-frills experience of larger budget carriers, Sunlight Air offers a distinctly warmer, more personalized service. True to its reputation, the crew served a delightful set of complimentary snacks. We were offered coffee, orange juice, and bottled water, but the highlight was undoubtedly its signature banana chips, a simple yet thoughtful touch that kept us energized for the adventure ahead. For travelers based in Central Luzon, Sunlight Air has firmly established itself as the go-to carrier for island destinations. As of early 2026, the airline has fully consolidated its turboprop operations at Clark International Airport, moving out of NAIA to comply with government directives aimed at decongesting Manila. This makes Clark the primary hub for its ATR fleet, which currently services Coron, Siargao, and Boracay. The fleet itself has seen significant upgrades. Sunlight Air recently welcomed the ATR 72-600, a more modern and fuel-efficient aircraft. Interestingly, while the plane is designed to carry up to 78 passengers, the airline has configured it with only 68 seats to provide wider legroom, a testament to its “no overbooking” and comfort-focused policy. Looking ahead, the carrier is eyeing international flights by 2027 and is reportedly in talks to acquire regional jets, though its immediate focus remains on perfecting the domestic island experience. Most exciting for island explorers is Sunlight
Air’s newest expansion: direct flights from Clark to Tablas, Romblon. Launched on Aug. 11, 2026, as part of the airline’s seventh anniversary celebration, this route operates twice weekly, every Tuesday and Saturday. For those looking to visit Coron, the airline currently operates direct, nonstop flights from both Clark and Cebu, making the UNESCO-listed limestone cliffs and lagoons more accessible than ever. Whether you are traveling for a business event or a leisure dive trip, Sunlight Air’s seamless Clark departure and thoughtful in-flight service ensure your vacation starts the moment you step on board.
The airline expands its island network from Clark while operating newer aircraft configured with fewer seats to provide passengers additional space
For us, though, the journey has always had a clear endpoint. While Tablas offers an enticing new adventure and Coron remains a beloved gateway, our ultimate destination is Discovery Coron, the perfect base from which to soak in the saltwater, reefs, and sunsets that make this corner of Palawan unforgettable. With Sunlight Air making the journey easier than ever, there has never been a better time to pack your bags and head straight for paradise.
LIFE
Young
JASPER VALDEZ, Issue Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
NOVEMBER 1, 2026 |
C3
email: lifeandshow.manilastandard.gmail.com
Young Filipino inventors
win international award for patient-monitoring device
The three Olongapo City students earn international recognition in Hyderabad, India, with a prototype they hope can eventually support nurses and patients in underserved communities
By Jasper Valdez
providing medication reminders. It can transmit patient information to healthcare personnel, potentially reducing repetitive monitoring tasks. The idea came from the students’ concern about the heavy workloads faced by Filipino nurses. Before presenting their invention internationally, the team interviewed nurses, patients and volunteers and tested the device in community health centers and school clinics.
T
HREE Filipino high school students have earned international recognition for developing a device designed to make patient monitoring easier for nurses. John Lee Bacoco, 16, Ahmika Julia Reyes, 15, and Katarina Sening Parungao, 16, from Regional Science High School III in Olongapo City, were among four winning teams in the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) STEM Entrepreneur Program held in Hyderabad, India. Their invention, called Project CARED, combines several patient-monitoring functions into one system, allowing healthcare workers to access important information without relying on multiple devices. The prototype measures heart rate, blood oxygen levels and blood pressure while also tracking urine output and
They also compared some of its measurements with commercial medical devices to identify areas needing improvement. “What we did was create an all-inone medical device to lessen nurses’ workload, so nurses can have the vital signs of the patient in one place and the information can then be transmitted to the hospital database,” Parungao said. Beyond helping hospital staff, the students hope their technology can eventually benefit communities with limited access to healthcare facilities. “Our main goal is to reach rural health centers. We really believe that, no matter who you are or where you are, accessible healthcare is a right and not a privilege,” Bacoco said. The international program gathered 22 student teams from 13 countries, challenging participants to demonstrate both the technical capabilities and practical applications of their inventions. The Filipino team was recognized alongside participants from India, Italy and South Korea. Each winning team receives $5,000 and six months of mentoring from industry professionals to help develop its project further.
Filipino students develop Project CARED to combine several patient-monitoring functions and help reduce repetitive tasks for healthcare workers
The NCCA documents an old Undas custom in which young people visit homes with songs and prayers for the departed in exchange for food or small donations (AI-geneated image)
Before trick-or-treating, Filipinos had ‘pangangaluluwa’ By Jasper Valdez LONG before Halloween costume parties and trick-or-treating became familiar celebrations in the Philippines, groups of children and young people had their own tradition of visiting houses during Undas, singing songs and asking for food or small donations. Known as pangangaluluwa, the practice is part of an old Filipino custom of remembering the dead, particularly among Tagalog communities. Unlike modern trick-or-treating, participants traditionally represented wandering souls believed to be returning from purgatory. According to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), groups of young people would visit households, performing songs that portrayed spirits seeking prayers and offerings from the living. In return, homeowners would give rice cakes, other food or small amounts of money. The custom was rooted in the belief that the boundary between the living and the dead temporarily opens during Undas, allowing departed souls to return to their former homes. In an article published on Oct. 26, the University of the Philippines Center for Ethnomusicology explained that pangangaluluwa, also called palimos, traditionally involved singers visiting houses on the night of All Saints’ Day. A typical performance began with the ringing of a small bell, followed by a greeting, a prayer and songs about the souls of the departed. The lyrics could also include stories about saints, local experiences and requests for donations. The music reflected both indigenous Filipino beliefs and influences introduced during Spanish colonization, including melodies associated with Spanish and Mexican musical traditions. Although pangangaluluwa shares similarities with trickor-treating, its purpose was closely connected to prayer, remembrance and the Filipino belief in life after death. Similar customs developed in other parts of the country. In Pangasinan, for example, groups of singers known as cantores traditionally visited homes during Undas to perform songs in exchange for money or rice cakes. Some communities have gradually moved away from these practices as newer Halloween celebrations have become familiar. For younger Filipinos, learning about pangangaluluwa offers a glimpse into how previous generations observed Undas, when visiting neighbors, singing and sharing food were part of remembering departed loved ones.
Simple ways to make Undas more environmentally friendly
Families observing Undas can help keep burial grounds cleaner and safer by managing their own waste and following cemetery rules throughout their visit
By Jasper Valdez VISITING cemeteries during Undas often means bringing flowers, candles, food and drinks for a day spent remembering departed loved ones, but these familiar practices can also leave behind considerable amounts of waste. With Filipinos observing All Saints’ Day on November 1 and All Souls’ Day on November 2, environmental groups are encouraging families to make small changes that can help keep cemeteries clean. On October 29, the EcoWaste Coalition held a candle-lighting activity at Manila North Cemetery, renewing its call for a wastefree Undas. The group reminded
visitors to avoid single-use plastics, dispose of garbage properly and choose environmentally friendly alternatives when preparing for cemetery visits. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has also issued recommendations for reducing waste during the annual observance. Bring reusable food containers Families spending several hours at cemeteries often pack meals, snacks and drinks. Instead of relying on disposable packaging, visitors can bring reusable food containers, water bottles and utensils. Packing only enough food for the visit can also help prevent leftovers from going to waste.
The EcoWaste Coalition encourages cemetery visitors to cut down on single-use plastics and properly dispose of what they bring during the Nov. 1 and 2 observance (AI-generated image)
The DENR recommends reusable containers, minimally packaged flowers and proper waste segregation as families prepare for visits to cemeteries (AI-generated image)
Choose flowers with less packaging Fresh flowers remain among the most common offerings during Undas, but arrangements often come with plastic wrappers and decorative materials. The DENR recommends choosing fresh flowers or potted plants without unnecessary packaging. Visitors can also bring reusable containers for floral arrangements. Dispose of waste properly Food wrappers, used containers and other discarded items should be placed in designated garbage bins. Where separate bins are available, visitors should follow the cemetery’s waste segregation system. Bringing a small trash bag can also help families collect their waste until they find an appropriate disposal area. Be mindful when using candles Visitors should keep candles in sturdy, fire-resistant holders and away from dry leaves, flowers and other flammable materials, as advised by the Bureau of Fire Protection. Burning garbage inside cemeteries should also be avoided. These practices require little additional preparation and can be followed by visitors of any age. For young Filipinos joining their families during Undas, helping manage waste offers a practical way to keep the annual tradition cleaner and safer for everyone.
When Pets Return in Spirit DESIREE CARLOS, Editor / email: daycarlos28@yahoo.com
C4 | NOVEMBER 1, 2026 By Mariana Burgos
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These experiences can be startling, but they are also surprisingly common. More important, they may be psychologically meaningful rather than simply bizarre. In the right context, they can help people maintain a continuing bond with a cherished companion while moving through grief. According to the article “Animal Spirits: Companion Animal Communications After Death” by Dr. Michael W. Fox, reports of deceased dogs and cats appearing to their human companions have long been interpreted as something more than imagination. Fox frames these events as part of a deeper emotional and spiritual relationship between people and animals, suggesting that bereaved owners often experience them as real, comforting encounters rather than mere fantasies. Whether a reader takes that interpretation literally or metaphorically, the human response is clear: the bond does not always end when the body does. Science offers a more grounded explanation for why these sightings happen. Grief changes attention, memory, and perception. When someone has shared daily life with a pet, the brain builds powerful habits around that animal’s routines, sounds, and location in the home. After the loss, the mind can briefly “fill in” expected cues. A shadow in the hallway, a sound at the door, or a familiar movement in the corner of the eye can be interpreted as the pet’s presence because the brain is primed to notice it. This is not necessarily a sign of delusion. It is often a normal feature of bereavement, especially when the attachment was strong and the loss recent. Research also shows that these experiences may have emotional benefits. According to the article “Paranormal Experiences May Help Pet Owners Deal with Grief” by the staff at People, a new study found that some people who reported paranormal encounters with deceased pets felt those moments helped them cope with loss. The article highlights an important point: the experience itself is not always the problem. Instead, it can serve as a bridge between pain and acceptance, giving the grieving person a sense that the relationship still carries meaning. For many pet owners, that feeling can soften the harshness of absence. The psychological value of such sightings becomes easier to understand when viewed through the lens of continuing bonds theory. Modern grief research increasingly recognizes that healthy mourning does not require “letting go” in the sense of erasing the dead from memory. People often heal by retaining an inner relationship with the one they lost. A sensed presence, dream visit, or fleeting vision of a pet may function as a symbolic continuation of love. Rather than blocking recovery, it can help some owners integrate the loss
PETS
HEN a pet dies, many owners report sensing that animal’s presence long after the funeral, cremation, or burial is over. They hear the familiar sound of nails tapping on the floor, feel some weight at the foot of the bed, catch a brief shape in a doorway, or dream of a beloved cat or dog returning home.
A generated portrait photo of a furmom and her deceased wolf-dog. (Photo from iStock royalty-free images.)
A close-up shot of a dog that seems to have captured his spirit as it is leaving the body. (Photo from iStock royalty-free images.) without feeling they have abandoned the animal emotionally. According to the article “Have You Ever Encountered the Ghost of a Deceased Pet?” by the author in Psychology Today, these ghostly encounters are often perceived as positive. The article notes that people usually describe them as comforting rather than frightening, which helps explain why they can be beneficial in mourning. This matters because grief is not just sadness; it is also confusion, disorientation, and the sudden silence left behind by a companion that once structured everyday life. A brief sense of presence can restore emotional balance and reduce the feeling that the bond has been severed completely. Actual cases described in these sources show how varied these experiences can be. In the Psychology Today article, one reported case involves a bereaved owner who believed she encountered
A generated photo of a deceased dog, appearing like a spirit in the sky. (Photo from iStock royalty-free images.)
the familiar presence of her deceased pet in the home, an experience that felt supportive rather than eerie. In the People report on the new study, owners described sensing signs of deceased pets through sounds, movements, or an unmistakable feeling that the animal was nearby. These accounts are not laboratory proof of an afterlife, but they are genuine human experiences that reveal how strongly people continue to connect with their animals after death. That is why the phenomenon can be seen as a good thing, at least in many cases. First, it can reduce the loneliness that follows pet loss. Second, it allows love to remain active instead of becoming frozen in pain. Third, it may help people talk about grief more openly, which is important because pet loss is sometimes minimized by others even though the emotional impact can be profound. A comfort-
ing sighting can validate the mourner’s attachment and make space for healing. In the end, whether one explains these encounters spiritually, psychologically, or through a blend of both, the meaning is similar. People are not simply seeing ghosts; they are carrying love forward in a form their minds and hearts can recognize. For many pet owners, that is not a symptom of weakness or denial. It is a humane response to loss, one that honors the deep and lasting relationship between humans and the animals they love. About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist, writer, and tutor. She has been a solo parent for 19 years now because she is the wife of Jonas Burgos, a Filipino desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.
A Second Serving:
WalterMart Fuels Hope for Rescue Animals Once Again By Red Pasetes EVERYBODY needs a little help sometimes, and animal welfare work is no exception. For rescuers and caretakers, extra hands can spell the difference between a full bowl and an empty one. When WalterMart Supermarket first lent support to Save Animals of Love and Light (Save ALL), it showed that businesses can be strong allies for animals who cannot speak for themselves. Now, building on that first partnership, WalterMart has returned with another donation: 509 cans and pouches of pet food, plus 22 soaps and shampoos for their rescued animals, and Save ALL’s network of rescuers and shelters.
Filling bowls, lifting spirits
For independent rescuers, foster furparents, and shelter volunteers, rescue is a labor of love that runs on tight budgets and round-the-clock dedication. Every day, caretakers balance the rising costs of specialized diets, medical checkups, and rehabilitation for animals saved from neglect or abandonment. The new supplies serve as a welcome cushion. Save ALL President Desiree Carlos shared that the donated food will be distributed to partner shelters and grassroots rescuers who need it most. Wet food is especially useful for senior dogs, recovering animals, and kittens that need softer, easier-to-eat meals. The donation also includes 22 soaps and shampoos for animals. Grooming supplies rarely top a rescuer’s wish list, but a bath is often the first step in caring for an animal pulled off the street. Consistent donations like this one also let rescuers plan ahead. Knowing that food is on hand frees up limited funds for vet visits, vaccinations, spayand-neuter procedures, and utility fees, which are among the biggest expenses in rescue work.
Why animal welfare needs a village
Rescue groups cannot shoulder the stray problem alone. Animal welfare advocates note that stray dogs
Pawsome Partners. Save ALL Public Relations Officer Red Pasetes (center) receives a generous donation of pet food and supplies from WalterMart Supermarket, represented by (from left) WalterMart North EDSA Store Head Apple Sichon, Regine Dumasig, Corporate Accounts Officer Lauriemay Bravo and Assistant Store Head Gabriel Duque. and cats across the Philippines face daily hunger, harsh weather, and illness, and that rescuers often fill gaps they were never meant to carry by themselves. This is why support from private companies, civic groups, and individuals matters so much. When a business like WalterMart invests in animal welfare, it does more than deliver cans and pouches. It helps send the message that caring for community animals is a shared responsibility.
Opening hearts through adoption
Lasting change begins when people choose to support non-governmental organizations (NGOs), push for low-cost spay-and-neuter programs, and open their homes to animals in need. Many advocates urge would-be pet owners to adopt rather than shop. Shelter and rescue animals often show remarkable resilience and affection,
waiting patiently for someone to give them a second chance at a family. WalterMart looks toward expanding its partnership with Save ALL through community education activities and responsible pet ownership drives, and shoppers are invited to take part in the mission. It doesn’t take running a shelter to be a hero. Volunteer for a weekend, donate a can of pet food, or welcome a rescued animal into your home. Every action counts. Creating a safer, kinder world for animals takes collective effort. Through steady partnerships like this one, WalterMart and Save ALL show that when communities and businesses align for a cause, real impact follows. One bowl, one rescue, and one loving home at a time. ***To contact or donate to Save ALL , please message them in their Facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/saveallph