that other countries may take following Washington’s announcement of the reciprocal tariffs could badly hit Philippine small businesses, particularly those in agriculture and food processing, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) said.
In a statement on Tuesday, PCCI, the largest business group in the Philippines, emphasized that while the US has yet to announce the exact coverage of goods that would be slapped with additional tariffs, “We remain vigilant as such tariffs typically target specific categories of goods such as food and agri products and electronics, which are our major exports.”
“We are wary at the potential impact of the actions other countries may take
By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz
TECH giant Meta on Tuesday expressed strong support for Congress’s initiatives to establish an antifake news regulatory body.
Meta’s Director of Public Policy for Southeast Asia, Dr. Rafael Frankel, signaled the company’s readiness to collaborate with lawmakers to protect users and uphold democratic values.
Responding to House Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega V’s inquiry about Meta’s potential support for a Philippine regulatory committee for social media platforms, Frankel
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
THE Philippines’s gross international reserves (GIR) slipped as of end-March, dragged by weak foreign investment flows as a result of the United States levying higher import tariffs and reciprocal tariffs.
Preliminary data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed the country’s GIR decreased to $106.228 billion as of end-March 2025 from $107.395 billion in end-February 2025.
The BSP traced the decline to the national government drawdowns on its foreign currency
holdings with the BSP to settle external obligations, along with net foreign exchange operations by the central bank.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort pinned the lowered GIR on the monthly decline in foreign investments amid Donald Trump’s higher import tariffs and anticipation of reciprocal tariffs.
“[The] Trump factor/premium led to some market volatility, especially on the US stock markets and other risky asset classes, though offset by some shift to safe havens such as US Treasuries/government bonds that led to lower bond yields recently,” Ricafort said.
Reserves in the form of foreign investments dropped month-onmonth to $88.562 billion from $90.116 billion.
The central bank may have also “intervened” in the forex market to “smooth out volatility” or “temper excessive peso depreciation” in March, which naturally reduces reserves, according to John Paolo R. Rivera, senior research fellow at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies. Foreign currency deposits also dipped to $498.2 million as of end-March from the previous month’s $805.7 million.
Still, the BSP said the latest GIR level “provides a robust external
liquidity buffer,” which is equivalent to 7.3 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income.
The GIR is seen to be adequate if it can finance at least three months’ worth of the country’s imports of goods and payments of services and primary income, the BSP explained.
“The dip [in the GIR level] is not alarming but rather part of routine fluctuations tied to market and debt management operations,” Rivera added.
The country’s gold reserves, which amounted to $12.762 billion in March 2025, up from $12.049
stated, “I’d be more than happy for Meta as a company to engage with the Philippine government and Congress on any type of regulations that you are considering when it comes to these issues.” Frankel cited Meta’s extensive experience working with governments across Southeast Asia, Asia Pacific, and globally to develop regulations that balance user protection with freedom of expression while also accounting for local nuances. “It’s really important that countries have their own solutions, and we are happy to share
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio @blessogerio
THE unemployment rate eased in February 2025, but is still above last year’s number, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Results of the latest Labor Force Survey show the jobless rate hit 3.8 percent (1.94 million individuals). The percentage rate was an improvement from January 2025’s 4.3 percent (1.80 million), but still higher than the 3.5 percent (2.16 million) recorded in February 2024. Underemployment, or the number of Filipinos seeking extra jobs or more working hours, also dropped to 10.1 percent (4.96 million) in February 2025. This was lower than January’s 13.3 percent
(6.47 million) and February 2024’s 12.4 percent (6.08 million).
According to National Statistician Claire Dennis Mapa, the yearon-year rise in unemployment was mainly due to more young people returning to school.
“Most of the increase was in the 15 to 24 age group. Their reason: they went back to schooling,” Mapa said in Filipino during a press briefing on Tuesday.
As for the month-on-month results, the PSA undersecretary linked them to political activity ahead of the May elections.
“We’ve already seen a slight pickup in employment tied to political organizations—around 41,000 (jobs),” he added in Filipino. “This trend will likely continue until May, though the overall boost isn’t that big.”
The National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) echoed that the increase in joblessness was largely youth-driven. Still, it said the current rate remains better than the government’s 2025 unemployment target range of 4.8 percent to 5.1 percent.
Compared to other Asian economies, the Philippines is somewhere in the middle. It did better than China (5.4 percent) and India (6.4 percent), but was still behind Malaysia (3.1 percent) and Vietnam (2.2 percent).
Momentum intact DESPITE the mixed results, the Marcos administration said it is staying the course on improving job quality.
“We will build on our momen-
tum and intensify our efforts to secure strategic job-generating investments, promote a dynamic and innovative business environment, and diversify growth drivers,” Neda Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said in a statement on Tuesday.
“The continued rollout and implementation of high-impact infrastructure flagship projects, particularly in energy, transport, and digital connectivity, will boost domestic employment and business activity,” he added. The employment rate for February 2025 stood at 96.2 percent, or 49.15 million employed Filipinos, up from January’s 95.7 percent (48.49 million), but slightly
SC to Duterte Senate bet: Explain fake news post
THE Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a show cause order directing Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) senatorial candidate for the May 2025 lawyer Raul Lambino to explain why he should not be meted out administrative sanctions for spreading false information.
The order was issued by the Court during its regular en banc session held in Baguio City.
It stemmed from Lambino’s Facebook live broadcast on March 11, 2025 where he falsely claimed that the Court had issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) enjoining the arrest and turnover of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
“This information caused public confusion and misled the people about the SC’s actions,” the SC said. The Court gave Lambino a nonextendible period of 10 days to submit his explanation.
It can be recalled on the same day, Duterte and his ally Sen. Ronald dela Rosa sought relief from the SC to stop the Palace and other government agencies
from enforcing any arrest warrant issued by the ICC in connection with its investigation on the drug-related killings during the previous administration.
The petition was filed before the SC hours after Duterte was arrested on March 11 upon his arrival from Hongkong.
On the evening of the same day, Duterte’s camp came out with unverified information claiming that the Court had issued a TRO.
The next day, the SC issued a decision denying the Duterte camp’s plea for a TRO but ordered the respondents to comment on the petition within a non-extendible period of 10 days.
Prior to the issuance of a show cause order against Lambino, the Court released a statement saying that it would investigate and impose sanctions against individuals who falsely claimed that it issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) on the arrest of Duterte.
It added that it would also investigate social media posts claiming that it announced the receipt of a petition seeking the resignation of President Marcos. Joel R. San Juan
Govt ready to release add’l funds for Kanlaon victims
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
THE government is ready to release additional funds to local governments, that are affected by the eruption of the Kanlaon Volcano, so they continue assisting their displaced constituents, Malacañang said on Tuesday.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro made the assurance as the local officials of La Castellana, Negros Occidental already appealed for funding aid from the Palace as the over four-month activity of the Kanlaon Volcano has depleted its P17-million calamity fund this year.
“If necessary, we will look into this, carefully consider what the needs of the local governments are, and immediately provide assistance,” Castro said in Filipino in a press briefing last Tuesday.
She added that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is already coordinating with the affected localities for the distribution of family food packs and non-food items to those who were affected.
DSWD said there are already 250,000 family food packs at its warehouses in Western Visayas and Central Visayas, which can be tapped to provide aid to those who were displaced by the eruption.
The Philippine Institute of
Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that Kanlaon Volcano had another explosive eruption on Tuesday morning, which was characterized by thick plumes rising from its crater.
The eruption prompted agency to hoist an Alert Level 3 for Kanlaon, which means the volcano is still at risk of hazardous eruption.
“Kanlaon Volcano is still at Alert Level 3 and may have a lava flow; that is one of the scenarios we are looking at.
But in the past, it was only in 1902 that Kanlaon Volcano erupted—it erupted,” Phivolcs Director Teresito C. Bacolcol said.
He noted that the previous eruptions of Kanlaon were mostly phreatic in nature, and caused by water coming into contact with hot volcanic materials such as hot volcanic cracks or hot gases.
Bacolcol reminded the public not to enter the six-kilometer danger zone around the volcano.
Kalaon has shown increased activity since its eruption on December 9, 2024.
As of March, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported the recent activities of Kanlaon Volcano affected 48,0528 persons in Western and Central Visayas. Over P6million worth of assistance were provided by LGUs and regional agencies to those affected.
Palace bans use of ECBS by poll bets
CANDIDATES, who used the Emergency Cell Broadcast System (ECBS) for election campaigning, will face charges, Malacañang said.
In a press briefing on Tuesday, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) are investigating reports that the ECBS was sup -
SC orders lawmakers: Reply to petition vs political dynasty
Tposedly being used to promote some candidates in Masbate.
“Anyone who is proven to have violated the law will be prosecuted,” Castro said. She called on candidates not to abuse the ECBS for their campaigns.
“It should only be for emergencies. This shouldn’t be abused by anyone for personal
By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
HE Supreme Court has ordered the Senate and the House of Representatives to comment on the latest petition seeking that they be compelled to comply with the constitutional provision that prohibits political dynasties.
At a press briefing held in Baguio City, SC spokesman lawyer Camille Sue Mae Ting said the order was issued during the magistrates’ regular en banc session on day.
The order stemmed from the petition filed by 1Sambayan Coalition and several other groups and individuals on Monday which also
asked the Court to hold Congress in contempt should they fail to comply with Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution within the period of one year in the event that the petition is granted.
Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution explicitly mandates the State to prohibit political dynasties.
That provision specifically states: “The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.”
The petitioners said nearly four decades had passed since the 1986 Constitution was drafted and yet lawmakers have continued to
evade its obligation to enact an anti-political dynasty law.
“Congress’s failure to enact an enabling law, since the Constitution’s ratification in 1987 up to date, has not only rendered Article II, Section 26 of the Constitution inutile, but also allowed political dynasties to concentrate power within a few families, undermined the democratic process, and ultimately exacerbated poverty and inequality among our people,” it added.
The petitioners noted that of over 30 anti-political dynasty bills filed in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, none have come close to being passed into law.
Duterte adds French lawyer to defense team
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
FRENCH international law and human-rights expert
Dov Jacobs is the newest member of the defense legal team of former President Rodrigo Duterte before the International Criminal Court.
The ICC Registry informed the Pre-Trial Chamber that Duterte’s lead counsel Nicholas Kaufman has requested that Jacobs be added as associate counsel of Duterte.
The ICC Registry confirmed the appointment of Jacobs on April 3.
Based in The Hague, Jacobs was one of the trial lawyers of former Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo
before the ICC.
Gbagbo and his minister Charles Bie Goudé were charged with four counts of crimes against humanity in connection with the deaths of 3,000 people after the presidential elections in 2011. The ICC panel and the appellate court later dismissed the charges, citing lack of evidence.
In his LinkedIn post a few weeks ago, Jacobs said it appears that Duterte’s arrest in the Philippines may violate the Rome Statute, the international treaty that created the ICC.
“It appears that Rodrigo Duterte has not been presented before a domestic Judge prior to his surrender
to the ICC, which raises questions as to the respect of his rights under Article 59 of the Rome Statute. The ICC has historically been reluctant to provide adequate monitoring of domestic conduct and remedies for violations of Article 59, as I experienced first hand in the Gbagbo case, setting a high standard for acknowledging any abuse of process in the treatment and surrender of a person to the Court at the domestic level,” Jacobs said. He expects that the manner of arrest in the Philippines will be likely raised during the Pre-Trial proceedings.
Also, he expects that the jurisdictional matter of ICC over
The Court has given both houses of Congress a non-extendible period of 10 days to submit their comment.
Likewise, the SC ordered the consolidation of 1Sambayan et al petition with the two other similar petitions filed by Kapatiran Party Alliance for the Common Good (G.R. No. 263934) and lawyers Wilfredo M. Trinidad, president and a trustee of the Philippine Bar Association (PBA) Rico Domingo, Jorge Cabildo and Ceasar Oracion (G.R. No. 272370).
Both petitions sought to compel Congress to comply with its constitutional mandate to pass a law defining political dynasties as required by Section 26, Article II.
Duterte’s case will be discussed “extensively” during the Pre-Trial phase.
“Indeed, while the Pre-Trial Chamber held that the Prosecutor could open an investigation after the Philippines’ withdrawal from the Rome Statute became effective, I continue to believe that this decision is legally erroneous and results from a confusion between ‘jurisdiction’ and ‘exercise of jurisdiction,’ which is in plain contradiction with the provisions of the Rome Statute and its logic.”
“And two judges on the appeals Chamber took the same position. It will be interesting to follow the renewed litigation on these matters before the Pre-Trial Chamber, even if two out of the three judges remain the same,” he added.
Group condemns arrest of three alleged Filipino spies in China
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
APARTY-LIST group on Tuesday condemned the arrest of three Filipinos in China on espionage charges, describing the move as a propaganda tactic intended to divert attention from the escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
Ang Bumbero ng Pilipinas (ABP) party-list group first nominee Jose Antonio Goitia, in a statement, described the arrests as “a blatant act of bullying by the Chinese government and a diversionary strategy to justify the illegal detention of three Filipinos.”
The three Filipinos were arrested in China under allegations of
spying for Philippine intelligence.
Goitia asserted that the trio are law-abiding citizens who underwent screening by the Chinese government before being accepted as recipients of a Hainan government scholarship, established under a sisterhood agreement between Palawan and Hainan provinces.
He also expressed serious doubts about the confessions attributed to the arrested Filipinos, suggesting they were likely made under duress.
He pointed to the narrative released by Chinese authorities, which included mentions of a “Philippines Intelligence Agency” or “Philippine Spy Intelligence Services”—non-existent government
agencies in the Philippines—as evidence of fabrication.
He believes the arrests are a form of pressure aimed at silencing the Philippine government on regional issues, particularly the West Philippine Sea.
Earlier, National Security Council (NSC) spokesperson Jonathan Malaya also expressed alarm over the espionage charges against the three Filipinos.
The NSC highlighted that the arrested individuals were former recipients of a Hainan Government Scholarship, ordinary Filipino citizens with no military training who were invited to study in China and vetted by the Chinese government prior to their arrival.
Habeas corpus petitioner seeks oral arguments
THE camp of Veronica Duterte has asked the Supreme Court to hold an oral argument on the petitions seeking the issuance of a writ of habeas corpus assailing the constitutionality of the government’s decision to hand over her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, to the International Criminal Court to face trial for crimes against humanity in connection with his bloody anti-illegal drug campaign. Veronica filed the motion through her lawyers led by former chief presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo.
The petitioner cited several grounds in seeking the conduct of an oral argument such as the “exigent constitutional issues” raised in the petition; novel legal questions; matter of transcendental importance and significant public interest; conflicting legal arguments and public statements; and precedential value and guidance.
“In light of the constitutional importance, novelty, public significance, and precedential value of this case, the petitioner respectfully urges the honorable
Court to set the consolidated petitions for oral arguments,” the 11-page motion read. The petitioner also proposed several issues to be tackled during the arguments, these include: 1. Whether or not the respondents violated Duterte’s constitutional right against deprivation of liberty without due process and against unlawful arrest and seizures; 2. Whether it was unconstitutional for the respondents to bypass local courts to implement an “Executive arrest” of the former President;
3. Whether or not the respondents encroached on the powers of the judiciary when they determined for themselves the legality of his arrest; 4. Whether or not the ICC has jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the Philippines was a state party to the Rome Statute;
5. Whether or not it was unconstitutional for the President to recognize the jurisdiction of the ICC, or to confer jurisdiction on the ICC; 6. Whether the Rome Statute is ineffective and invalid in the country due to its lack of publication in the Official Gazette
or newspaper of general circulation; 7. Whether the petitions are rendered moot by Duterte’s transfer to the ICC; and whether the Court can compel the Executive to seek Duterte’s return to the country.
Aside from Veronica, her siblings Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte and Davao City Rep. Paolo “Polong” Duterte, also filed similar petitions, thus, the Court consolidated all three petitions.
Named as respondents in the writ of habeas petitions were Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Francisco Marbil, PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CID) Director Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, Armed Forces (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., Executive Director of the Philippine Center on Transnational Crime (PCTC) Undersecretary retired Lt. Gen. Antonio Alcantara, Capt. Johnny Gulla and the Bureau of Immigration (BI). “Oral arguments would enable this
The NSC raised significant questions about the edited video released by Chinese media showing alleged “confessions,” noting inconsistencies and the mention of non-existent Philippine intelligence agencies, suggesting the confessions were scripted and not freely made.
The NSC stated that the arrests could be seen as retaliation for the recent arrests of Chinese agents by Philippine law enforcement. The agency emphasized the safety and well-being of the Filipinos as its top priority and pledged to coordinate with the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Philippine Embassy in Beijing to ensure appropriate legal support and due process.
Honorable Court to directly question the parties on these questions, and on the balance between the Executive’s discretion in foreign affairs and the judiciary’s role in safeguarding constitutional rights and checks and balances, potentially setting a precedent for future cases involving individual liberties, the jurisdiction of foreign tribunals and international cooperation,” the motion added. In their petitions, the Duterte siblings are asking the Court to order the respondents to appear before the High Tribunal and to produce the body of the former President and explain why he should not be freed without delay. The writ of habeas corpus is a legal remedy available to address illegal confinement or detention, or to determine rightful custody over a person. It applies to all cases of illegal confinement or detention by which any person is deprived of his liberty. They argued that their father was illegally arrested and turned over to the ICC despite its lack of jurisdiction since the country had already withdrawn from the Rome Statute, which established the ICC. Joel
Influencer testifies Roque masterminded ‘polvoron video’ to destabilize Marcos
By Jovee Marie Dela Cruz @joveemarie
SOCIAL media influencer
Ahas testified under oath that former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque was the originator and driving force behind the controversial “polvoron video” allegedly depicting President Ferdinand Marcos was using illegal drugs, claiming it was a deliberate plot to destabilize the current administration.
In a sworn affidavit presented to the House Tri-Committee hearing on Tuesday, influencer Vicente Bencalo “Pebbles” Cunanan stated his belief that Roque was the initial source and propagator of the video, intending to damage President Marcos’ credibility and incite
public opposition.
Cunanan’s affidavit read, “Ako ay naniniwalang si Atty. Roque ang orihinal na pinagmulan ng polvoron video at na siya ang nagpakalat nito sa publiko upang sirain ang kredibilidad ng Pangulo.” (I believe that Atty. Roque was the original source of the polvoron video and that he spread it to the public to destroy the President’s credibility.)
Cunanan further recalled Roque saying during a private dinner, “Magaling ako magpabagsak ng gobyerno.” (I am good at bringing down governments.)
The Tri-Com, composed of the House Committees on Public Order and Safety, on Information and Communications Technology, and on Public Information, resumed its hearing Tuesday on fake news and
misinformation in social media. According to Cunanan, Roque made the statement during a private dinner in Hong Kong on July 7, 2024, shortly after a pro-Duterte “Maisug Rally.” Attendees reportedly included Roque, former executive secretary Vic Rodriguez, and influencers Atty. Glen Chong, Atty. Trixie Cruz-Angeles, Dr. Lorraine Badoy, Sass Rogando Sassot, Joie de Vivre, and Tio Moreno.
Cunanan testified that during the dinner, Roque claimed to have received a screenshot of a video from a relative of a politician allegedly showing President Marcos using cocaine. “Noong gabing ito, sinabi ni Atty. Roque na siya ay nakatanggap mula sa kamag-anak ng isang politiko ng isang screenshot ng video kung saan makikita si PBBM na gumagamit ng
cocaine,” the affidavit stated. (During that night, Atty. Roque said that he received from a relative of a politician a screenshot of a video where PBBM could be seen using cocaine.) Although Roque did not show the image that night, Cunanan said the group discussed strategies for leaking the video publicly while evading legal repercussions. “Nagkaroon ng mga diskusyon tungkol sa pagpapakalat ng video ito sa publiko,” he said. (There were discussions about spreading this video to the public.)
Ayon sa aking rekoleksyon, mayroon pa ngang naging usapan na isang foreign influencer o vlogger ang dapat mag -post o panggalingan ng video para magmukhang mas kapani-paniwala at upang maiwasan ang anumang posibleng pananagutan mula sa gobyerno ng ating bansa,” the affi -
Pasig congressional bet Sia in hot water over body-shaming remark
By Samuel P. Medenilla
@sam_medenilla
& Joel R. San Juan
@jrsanjuan1573
CONTROVERSIAL Pasig congressional candidate Christian D. Sia was given three days to justify before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on why he should not be held accountable for his body-shaming remark in a campaign sortie.
T he Supreme Court, meanwhile, issued a show cause order directing Pasig City congressional candidate to explain why no disciplinary action should be imposed against him over his alleged sexist and misogynist remarks during a campaign sortie.
The order was issued by the Court during its regular en banc session held in Baguio City where it tackled two complaints lodged against Sia.
The complaints were filed by lawyers Allen Liberato-Espino and Michelle A. Laserna-Adricula and women’s group Gabriela National Alliance of Filipino of Filipino Women.
In a letter dated April 7, 2025, Gabriela asked the Court to investigate Sia and impose the appropriate disciplinary action against him in connection to his remarks made during a campaign sortie telling single mothers that they can sleep with him, particularly those who are still menstruating. Sia ’s statement, which has gone viral in various social media platforms, elicited public uproar and backlash that prompted him to hold a press conference to apologize to the public.
Last Monday, Comelec’s Task Force on Safeguarding Against Fear and Exclusions in Elections (Task Force SAFE) issued a show cause order (SCO) against Sia after
he supposedly gave disparaging remarks on the appearance of one of his former female staff during the event.
He commented how the staff supposedly grew fat, when she changed employers.
Sia, who is a lawyer, later said that his statement was just a joke.
“In view of the foregoing, you are hereby ordered to show cause in writing within a non-extendible period of three days from receipt hereof and to explain why a complaint for election offense and/or a petition for disqualification should be filed against you,” Task Force SAFE head Sonia L. Lozada said in a SCO dated 8 April 2025.
“Failure on your part to comply with this Order shall be construed as a waiver of your right to be heard and the filing of the appropriate case against you,” she added.
L ozada said Sia may be held accountable for the violation of Comelec Resolution No.
11116 or the Anti-Discrimination and Fair Campaigning Guidelines for the Purposes of the 12 May 2025 National and Local Elections and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections.
The violation of the resolution is considered an election offense, which is punishable with imprisonment, perpetual disqualification from holding public office, and deprivation of the right to vote.
Sia is also facing the possible violation of the provisions of the Republic Act No. 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women and the Republic Act. No. 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act for allegedly committing gender-based harassment.
T his was the second time Sia received an SCO. The first involved his misogynistic utterance, where he urged female solo parents to sleep with him, in a campaign sortie.
Group backs WHO campaign to end preventable maternal, newborn deaths
By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
NVIRONMENTAL group BAN Toxics
Ecalled on governments to intensify efforts to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths and prioritize the long-term health and well-being of women.
The group advocating for the sound management of toxic chemicals and waste issued the call as it joins the global com -
munity in celebrating World Health Day and supportng the World Health Organization’s (WHO) campaign, ‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.’
The campaign also called on governments to prioritize women’s long-term health and well-being, citing the WHO’s latest estimates wherein nearly 300,000 women die each year from pregnancy- or childbirth-related complications. More than 2 million babies die within their first month of life, and approximately 2
million more are stillborn.
The WHO further reports that, based on current trends, four out of five countries are not on track to meet the targets for improving maternal survival by 2030. Additionally, one in three countries is expected to fall short of the goals for reducing newborn deaths. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, there were a total of 1,868 recorded maternal deaths in the country in 2023.
One of the most concerning envi -
ronmental chemicals affecting women’s health is mercury, recognized by the WHO as one of the top ten chemicals of major public health concern due to its toxic effects on the nervous, immune, and digestive systems, as well as the lungs, kidneys, skin, and eyes.
BAN Toxics revealed that even low-level exposure can pose serious health risks, especially to pregnant women and young children.
davit read, suggesting a plan to use a foreign influencer to disseminate the video for plausible deniability. (According to my recollection, there was even a discussion that a foreign influencer or vlogger should post or be the source of the video to make it appear more credible and to avoid any possible liability from the government of our country.)
Cunanan testified that on July 22, the day of the SONA, he received two versions of the video from Maharlika: a raw version and an enhanced version allegedly manipulated to more clearly depict President Marcos in the scene. “ Mayroon pa rin akong kopya ng raw and enhanced video na ito,” she said.
Services remained the top sector, employing 61.6 percent of the total workforce. Meanwhile, wage and salary workers made up the biggest slice at 63.2 percent.
The largest year-on-year job gains were recorded in accommodation and food services (up by 377,000), fishing and aquaculture (365,000), public administration and defense (330,000), construction (258,000) and other service activities (232,000).
Meanwhile, the biggest drops in employment were in agriculture and forestry (down by 949,000), administrative and support services (-201,000), transportation and storage (-158,000), wholesale and retail trade (-77,000), and professional, scientific and technical activities (-68,000).
Labor market still on track
Tariff. . .
Continued from A1
in response to the US’ reciprocal tariffs. Retaliatory measures can disrupt global supply chains, increase costs, and create uncertainty for businesses and consumers, bringing about a broad negative effect on economic growth,” the business group said in a statement on Tuesday.
“The DOLE remains steadfast in its strategic direction in formulating sound and responsive employment policies, enhancing the employability and skills development of our workforce, expanding access to work and employment opportunities, and cultivating an environment that fosters sustainable and resilient enterprises,” DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said in a statement on Tuesday.
Labor force participation in February was at 64.5 percent or 51.09 million Filipinos aged 15 and up. This was higher than January’s 63.9 percent (50.65 million) but slightly lower than February 2024’s 64.8 percent (50.75 million).
Men continued to participate more in the labor force, with a rate of 74.6 percent in February 2025, than women, which stood at 54.2 percent.
Among the youth, labor force participation dropped to 31.1 percent in February 2025, from 31.8 percent in January and 33.8 percent a year earlier.
THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said the results reflect the government’s continued push to strengthen the job market.
Youth employment also declined, hitting 89.6 percent, lower than February 2024’s 91.4 percent.
DOF’s Recto weighs in THE Philippines’ “robust labor market” in February signals stronger domestic demand that could insulate the economy from escalating global trade tensions, according to the country’s Finance chief.
In a statement on Tuesday, Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said the decline in unemployment and underemployment rate is a “very encouraging development” as this drives consumer demand and pushes the economy forward.
“We must continue to boost domestic demand, especially in these uncertain times marked by brewing trade wars. A strong and resilient domestic market is our best defense,” Recto said.
The country’s unemployment rate eased to 3.8 percent in February, an improvement from 4.3 percent in January, but still higher than the 3.5 percent recorded in February
last year. (See: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2025/04/08/february-joblessrate-dips-to-3-8-percent-psa/).
Underemployment rate also declined to 10.1 percent from 13.3 percent in January as more workers were engaged in full-time employment and middle- and high-skilled occupations.
Recto said the government is “actively pursuing” strategic interventions to further enhance the Philippines’ labor market situation.
This includes the implementation of the Create More Act to attract foreign investors looking to relocate their companies in response to the shifting global trade policies, which will help generate more quality jobs for Filipinos.
Partnerships with the private sector will also be strengthened to ensure that training programs are aligned with industry needs, boosting workers’ skills and productivity through the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework, he added. With Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
(I still have a copy of this raw and enhanced video.) He further stated his belief that the enhanced version was edited to make it explicitly appear that President Marcos was in the video.
“Dahil dito, lalong tumibay ang aking paniniwala na ang video ay sinadyang ipakalat ni Atty. Roque at ng ilang DDS personalities upang magdulot ng batikos at kontrobersiya laban kay PBBM bago ang kanyang SONA,” Cunanan said, asserting his strengthened belief that Roque and certain Duterte supporters intentionally disseminated the video to generate criticism and controversy against President Marcos before his SONA. (Because of this, my belief that the video was intentionally spread by Atty. Roque and some DDS personalities created criticism and controversy against PBBM before his SONA became even stronger.
PCG exposes ‘coordinated’ pro-China fake news campaign on West Philippine Sea
THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Tuesday exposed a “coordinated and malicious” fake news campaign on social media that defends China’s actions and aims to undermine the Philippines’ stance in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Speaking before the House Tri-Comm investigating the proliferation of fake news and disinformation online, PCG
Commodore Jay Tarriela identified two Filipino vloggers, Anna Malindog Uy and Ado Paglinawan, as publicly disseminating content that amplifies pro-China disinformation.
According to Tarriela, their narratives include blaming the PCG for confrontations in the WPS, defending controversial Chinese-linked Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), and denying the presence of Chinese spies in the country.
“She is actually narrating a narrative that it is the [PCG] who rammed the China Coast Guard vessel,” Tarriela said of Uy.
Regarding Paglinawan, he cited a post that labeled the WPS issue as “lunacy” and accused senators of “disgracefully” grilling former Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, who is under suspicion of being a Chinese spy.
“For the past two years, since our administration began publicizing the incidents happening in the [WPS], we have seen a significant increase in fake news, disinformation, and misinformation regarding the [WPS] issue,” Tarriela told the joint committee.
In his presentation, Tarriela outlined a three-tiered structure behind the disinformation campaign: initiators, disseminators, and reposters.
“We call them initiators because if we’re going to trace the misinformation and fake news about [WPS], they are the very first people who spread this false information,” he explained.
Disseminators, he said, are “soulless”
Continued from A14
on short-term foreign capital, making economies less susceptible to external disruptions,” said AMRO.
Another key strategy, it noted, is enhancing corporate and investor awareness.
troll accounts lacking any identifiable presence, while reposters are fellow Filipinos who amplify the misleading narratives.
“The general public is actually the victim. Sometimes they believe there is no [WPS], sometimes they believe we are just being instigated by America,” he noted.
Tarriela detailed six recurring false narratives being propagated: the Philippines lacks a legal basis in the WPS; the issue is not a priority; the government is provoking China; war is inevitable; the country is being dictated by the United States; and WPS spokespersons are corrupt.
“They even said we rammed the China Coast Guard,” he stated. “They said I’m a CIA agent...with three black bags...receiving 4 million US dollars.”
He said the identified bloggers also promote other related themes.
He added that the identified bloggers also promote related themes, including consistently opposing the Philippine position in the WPS, defending Alice Guo and POGOs, and denying the arrests of Chinese spies by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
Lawmakers expressed their concern, with House Assistant Majority Leader and Manila 1st District Rep. Ernesto Dionisio Jr. insisting that these pro-China bloggers must be exposed.
“ We really have to find out who these people are. The committee will not stop,” Dionisio said.
Dionisio also urged vloggers to create content that defends national interest. D ionisio also urged vloggers to create content that defends the national interest and warned that his constituents would not tolerate such attacks on the country. He called on Filipinos to stand united against China’s negative narratives.
Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz
“Greater financial education and stricter oversight of foreign currency borrowing can prevent reckless speculation, ensuring that financial risks are effectively mitigated,” said Amro.
“By adopting these proactive measures, Asean+3 economies can build a more stable and resilient financial environment and be better prepared to address the challenges posed by global capital flows,” it also noted. Amro said Asean+3 policymakers must remain vigilant as global financial conditions evolve. It underscored that the region could even become a more attractive destination for “speculative capital.”
In the meantime, PCCI said it is awaiting the Philippine government’s action, while tracking the moves of the country’s neighbors, so the business group can “then act accordingly.”
Last Monday, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque said the Philippine economic team will meet and explore all options, including the offer of concessions, as it prepares to negotiate with US officials over the 17-percent reciprocal tariff Washington slapped on the Philippines. The country’s trade chief, however, noted that the Philippine economic team
For a remittance- and consumer-driven economy like the Philippines’, PCCI said the “ripple effect” of having to absorb extra costs will be hardest on small businesses, particularly those in agriculture and food processing.
has not yet discussed what they intend to offer or bring to the negotiating table with Washington.
Based on the list of additional duties presented by US President Donald Trump on April 2,2025, the Philippines charges 34 percent tariffs on goods being sourced from the US. This rate takes into account “currency manipulation and trade barriers.”
In return, the US intends to slap imported goods from the Philippines with additional 17-percent tariffs, a rate framed as relatively tamer than the ones slapped on its Asean neighbors. With this, PCCI Chairman George Barcelon told reporters that even though the
Philippines would be slapped with one of the lower additional duties in Asean, “We have to do our homework and see what sectors can benefit from this.”
“First, if we think that there’s this sector that will gain, would be more competitive and get more buyers, we have to beef up our capacity,” Barcelon told reporters at the sidelines of the PCCI’s 1st General Membership Meeting held in Makati City on Tuesday.
PCCI said, “For now, the 17-percent reciprocal tariffs on Philippine goods entering the US market is among the lowest vis-a-vis our Asean neighbors. This ensures that our competitiveness is preserved or improved unless adjustments are made in future.”
An Israeli strike hit near a charity kitchen in Gaza as Palestinians gathered for food
By Wafaa Shurafa & Samy Magdy
The Associated Press
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza
Strip—An Israeli strike on Monday hit next to a charity kitchen where Palestinians crowded to receive cooked meals as food supplies dwindle under Israel’s monthlong blockade of the Gaza Strip, one of a string of attacks in the territory that killed more than 30 people, mostly women and children, hospital officials said.
Another strike hit a media tent outside a hospital, killing two people, including a local reporter, and wounding six other journalists, medics said. The Israeli military said the strike targeted a man whom it identified as a Hamas militant posing as a journalist.
Video footage showed people carrying the body of a little girl, her face covered with blood, from the blast that witnesses said hit a tent next to the charity kitchen outside the southern city of Khan Younis. Six other people were killed, including two women, and at least 10 people were wounded, hospital officials said.
The strike hit around noon
Trade war. . .
Continued from A9 markets. His commitment to tariffs could have devastating effects for the global economy, even though Trump is banking that it will ultimately pay off with manufacturing jobs.
Asked Monday if he would consider a pause on his widespread tariffs, Trump said, “We’re not looking at that.” The US
as the kitchen was distributing meals to displaced people living in tent camps. Samah Abu Jamie said her nephew was among those killed and her young daughter was wounded as they waited with their pots to collect meals for their families.
“They were going to get food. I told her, ‘Daughter, don’t go’,” she said. “These were children, and they had nothing with them but a pot. Is a pot a weapon?”
There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military on the strike.
‘Bombed and starved again’ CHARITY kitchens have been drawing bigger crowds of Palestinians because other sources of food are running out. More than a month ago, Israeli cut off all food, fuel, medicine and other supplies for Gaza’s population of more than 2 million people, forcing aid groups to ration their stocks.
The World Food Program has warned that its supplies to keep kitchens going could be depleted by next week. It had to stop distributing boxes of food staples directly to families last week, spokesperson Abeer Etefa said
president said he was open to negotiations “if we can make a really fair deal and a good deal for the United States.” Trump added that it’s possible to have both negotiated settlements with other countries and permanent tariffs.
Even as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his country would take its tariffs against US goods to zero, Trump was noncommittal about removing the new import taxes placed on an ally. The White House also said Monday that Trump would
Monday. The bakeries it ran have also shut down for lack of flour, ending a main source of bread for hundreds of thousands of people.
Since it ended its ceasefire with Hamas last month, Israel has carried out bombardments across Gaza, killing hundreds of people, and ground forces have carved out new military zones. Israel says it is pressuring Hamas to free its remaining hostages, disarm and leave the territory. Under the ceasefire deal, it had agreed to negotiate for the hostages’ release.
The heads of six UN agencies operating in Gaza said in a joint statement Monday that the blockade has left Gaza’s population “trapped, bombed and starved again.” They said Israeli claims that enough supplies entered during the ceasefire “are far from the reality on the ground, and commodities are running extremely low.”
“We are witnessing acts of war in Gaza that show an utter disregard for human life,” they said. “Protect civilians. Facilitate aid. Release hostages. Renew a ceasefire.”
Strikes hit journalists and homes
veto a Senate bill that would mandate congressional approval for new tariffs, a bet that the critical mass of Republican lawmakers will loyally back him despite the economic and political risks.
However, there are signs of frustration even among Trump’s allies. Sen. John Kennedy, a Louisiana Republican, said he supports the president’s goals of better trade deals but worries about the economic uncertainty.
“We don’t know if the medicine will be
THE strike outside Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis about 2 a.m. set the media tent ablaze, killing Yousef al-Faqawi, a reporter for the Palestine Today news website, and another man, according to hospital officials.
The military said the strike targeted Hassan Eslaiah, claiming he was a Hamas militant who took part in the October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel that ignited the war. Eslaiah was among six journalists who were wounded in the strike, according to the hospital.
Eslaiah had occasionally contributed images to The Associated Press and other international media outlets as a freelance journalist, including on October 7. The AP has not worked with him for over a year.
A strike that hit a street in Gaza City killed an emergency room doctor, the Gaza Health Ministry said. Israel’s campaign has killed more than 1,000 health workers and at least 173 journalists, according to the UN and the Committee to Protect Journalists.
Hospitals in Khan Younis and the central town of Deir al-Balah said they received the bodies of
worse than the disease,” Kennedy said, adding, “This is President Trump’s economy now.”
If Trump implements his new taxes on imports from China, US tariffs on Chinese goods would reach a combined 104 percent.
The new taxes would be on top of the 20 percent tariffs announced as punishment for fentanyl trafficking and his separate 34 percent tariffs announced last week. Not only could that increase prices for American consumers, it could also give China an incen -
33 people, 19 of them women and children, from strikes overnight and into the day on Monday, including those from the kitchen and the media tent attack.
Some of the strike reduced houses to rubble. Imad Maghari said the blast that hit his neighbors in Deir al-Balah at 2 a.m. was like “an earthquake,” followed by the screams of women and children. He said one neighbor lost five family members and another a young boy.
“I don’t know what danger he poses. He’s 7 years old,” Maghari said.
Israel’s military offensive in retaliation for Hamas’ October 7 attack has killed more than 50,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to the Gaza health ministry, whose count does not distinguish between militants and civilians. The offensive has destroyed vast areas of the Gaza Strip and displaced around 90 percent of its population.
Israel says it tries to avoid civilian casualties and blames Hamas for their deaths because it operates among the population.
In the October 7 attack, Hamasled militants killed about 1,200
tive to flood other countries with cheaper goods and seek deeper relationships with other trading partners.
China responded angrily and said it would not back down.
“The US threat to escalate tariffs on China is a mistake on top of a mistake and once again exposes the blackmailing nature of the US,” said a statement from the Commerce Ministry in Beijing. “China will never accept this. If the US insists on its own way, China will fight to the end.”
After sell-offs on the prior two days of trading, the Dow Jones Industrial Average on Monday fell 0.9 percent. The S&P 500 slumped 0.2 percent, and the Nasdaq composite was up 0.1 percent.
Trump frequently bragged about stock market gains during his first term, and the threat of losses on Wall Street was viewed as a potential guardrail on risky economic policies in his second term. But that hasn’t been the case, and Trump has described days of financial pain as necessary.
“I don’t mind going through it because I see a beautiful picture at the end,” he said.
Trump officials have frequently appeared on television to make the case for his policies, but none of their explanations have calmed the markets. The only improvement came from a false report that top economic adviser Kevin Hassett said Trump was considering a pause on all tariffs except for China. Stock prices spiked before the White House denied it was true by calling the post “fake news.”
The Republican president has remained
people, mostly civilians, and abducted 251 people. They are still holding 59 captives—24 of whom are believed to be alive—after most of the rest were released in ceasefires or other deals.
Protests in Israel as Netanyahu meets Trump
ISRAELI Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with US President Donald Trump in Washington on Monday to discuss Gaza and other issues.
Dozens of protesters gathered outside Netanyahu’s official residence in Jerusalem to call for an agreement to release the captives. Many fear that Netanyahu’s decision to resume the fighting has put the remaining hostages in grave danger and hope Trump can help broker another deal.
“Now the moment of truth has come,” said Varda Ben Baruch, grandmother of Israeli American hostage Edan Alexander, addressing Netanyahu. “You are in the United States and you have to sit there with President Trump and close a deal so that everyone will be released home.”
Magdy reported from Cairo.
defiant despite fears that he could be pushing the US toward a recession, insisting that his tariffs are necessary for rebuilding domestic manufacturing and resetting trade relationships with other countries. But his aggressive push has scrambled US economic policy. Even though inflation remains elevated, Trump has called on the Federal Reserve to lower its benchmark interest rates that were increased to constrain price increases.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell warned Friday that the tariffs could increase inflation, and he said, “There’s a lot of waiting and seeing going on, including by us,” before any decisions would be made. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the European Union would focus on trade with other countries besides the United States, saying there are “vast opportunities” elsewhere. Trump said he spoke with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to start trade negotiations. He complained on Truth Social “they have treated the US very poorly on Trade” and “they don’t take our cars, but we take MILLIONS of theirs.” Ishiba said he told Trump that he’s “strongly concerned” that tariffs would discourage investment from Japan, which has been the world’s biggest investor in the US in the past five years. He described the situation as a “national crisis” and said his government would negotiate with Washington to urge Trump to reconsider the tariffs.
See “Trade war,” A11
Trump says US will hold direct talks with Iran; Tehran says they will be indirect negotiations
By Aamer Madhani, Tia Goldenberg & Zeke Miller The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—Presi -
dent Donald Trump
said Monday the US will hold direct talks with Iran about its nuclear program, while warning the Iranians they would be in “great danger” if the talks don’t succeed in persuading them to abandon their nuclear weapons program. For its part, Tehran confirmed talks would happen but insisted they would be indirect discussions through a mediator.
Trump, in comments to reporters after meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, said the talks will start Saturday. He insisted Tehran can’t get nuclear weapons.
“We’re dealing with them directly and maybe a deal is going to be made,” Trump said. He added that “doing a deal would be preferable to doing the obvious.”
Asked if he would commit to military action against Iran should his negotiators be unable to come to terms with Tehran, Trump responded, “Iran is going to be in great danger, and I hate to say it.”
“If the talks aren’t successful, I think it’s going to be a very bad day for Iran,” Trump said.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, writing on the social platform X that is banned in
Tehran, insisted the talks would be indirect.
“Iran and the United States will meet in Oman on Saturday for indirect high-level talks,” he wrote. “It is as much an opportunity as it is a test. The ball is in America’s court.”
Trump’s letter started new negotiation attempt
TRUMP recently sent a letter to Iran’s supreme leader, 85-yearold Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, calling for direct negotiations with the United States over its rapidly advancing nuclear program. But Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said late last month that Iran had rejected Trump’s entreaty while leaving open the possibility of indirect negotiations with Washington.
But Trump has consistently called on Iran, which is the chief sponsor of Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon and Houthi militants in Yemen, to abandon its nuclear program or face a reckoning.
“If they don’t make a deal, there will be bombing,” Trump told NBC News in late March. “It will be bombing the likes of which they have never seen before.”
Trump during his first White House term unilaterally withdrew the US from the landmark 2015 nuclear accord with Iran negotiated by Democratic President Barack Obama’s administration.
Netanyahu says he supports Trump’s diplomatic efforts to
reach a settlement with Iran, adding that Israel and the US share the same goal of ensuring that Iran does not develop a nuclear weapon. Netanyahu, however, led efforts to persuade Trump to pull out of the deal in 2018.
The Israeli leader, known for his hawkish views on Iran and past calls for military pressure, said he would welcome a diplomatic agreement along the lines of Libya’s deal with the international community in 2003. But that deal saw Libya’s late dictator Moammar Gadhafi give up all of his clandestine nuclear program. Iran has insisted its program, acknowledged to the International Atomic Energy Agency, should continue.
“I think that would be a good thing,” Netanyahu said. “But whatever happens, we have to make sure that Iran does not have nuclear weapons.”
Trump said the talks would happen “at almost the highest level,” but declined to say where the negotiations would take place or who he was dispatching for the sensitive diplomacy.
The Middle East sultanate of Oman was an important conduit for previous US-Iran negotiations. It did not acknowledge it would host the upcoming talks.
Trump announced plans for the surprise engagement as Netanyahu made a hastily arranged visit to the White House—his second in just over two months—to discuss
Trump’s DHS revokes legal status for migrants who entered the US on Biden-era CBP One app
By Valerie Gonzalez The Associated Press
MCALLEN, Texas—Migrants who were temporarily allowed to live in the United States by using a Biden-era online appointment app have been told to leave the country “immediately,” officials said Monday. It was unclear how many beneficiaries would be affected.
More than 900,000 people were allowed in the country using the CBP One app since January 2023. They were generally allowed to remain in the United States for two years with authorization to work under a presidential authority called parole.
“Canceling these paroles is a promise kept to the American
people to secure our borders and protect national security,” the Department of Homeland Security media affairs unit said in response to questions.
Authorities confirmed termination notices were sent to CBP One beneficiaries but did not say how many. They were urged to voluntary self-deport using the same app they entered on, which has been renamed CBP Home.
“It’s time for you to abandon the United States,” the Department of Homeland Security wrote to a Honduran family that entered the US at the end of last year. The Associated Press reviewed the e-mail received Sunday. Others shared the same e-mail on social media platforms.
Al Otro Lado, a nonprofit orga -
n ization that provides legal aid to migrants, said some who received the revocation letters are from Honduras, El Salvador and Mexico.
CBP One was a cornerstone of the Biden administration’s strategy to create and expand legal pathways to enter the United States in an attempt to discourage illegal border crossings. By the end of December, 936,500 people had been allowed to enter with CBP One appointments at border crossings with Mexico. President Donald Trump ended CBP One for new entrants on his first day in office, stranding thousands in Mexico who had appointments into early February.
Trump has ended and revoked temporary status for many who benefited under Biden’s policies.
the tariffs Trump has unleashed on countries around the world, Iran’s nuclear program and the Israel-Hamas war.
Trump, Netanyahu discuss Mideast tensions and tariffs
TRUMP and Netanyahu said they also discussed tensions with Iran, Israel-Turkey ties and the International Criminal Court, which issued an arrest warrant against the Israeli leader last year. Trump in February signed an executive order imposing sanctions on the ICC over its investigations of Israel.
Before his meeting with Netanyahu, Trump held a call with French President Emmanuel Macron, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Jordan’s King Abdullah II. All three leaders have been key interlocutors in efforts to tamp down tensions in the Middle East and bring an end to the IsraelHamas war.
The prime minister soon after arriving in Washington on Sunday evening met with senior Trump administration officials, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and US Trade Representative Jameson Greer, to discuss the tariffs. And Netanyahu met Monday with Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, ahead of his sitdown with the president.
On tariffs, Netanyahu said he assured Trump that his government would move to erase the
Homeland Security said Monday that Biden’s use of parole authority—more than any president since it was created in 1952—“further fueled the worst border crisis in US history.”
Homeland Security said last month that it was revoking another form of parole for 532,000 people from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela who flew to the country at their own expense with a financial sponsor. It ends April 24.
The Trump administration has also announced an end to Temporary Protected Status for 600,000 Venezuelans and about 500,00 Haitians, though a federal judge temporarily put that on hold, including for about 350,000 Venezuelans who had been scheduled to lose TPS on Monday. TPS is granted in 18-month increments to people already in the US whose countries are deemed unsafe for return due to natural disaster or civil strife.
trade deficit. US-Israel trade was $37 billion last year, according to the office of the US Trade Representative. The trade deficit was $7.4 billion.
“We will eliminate the trade deficit with the United States,” Netanyahu said “We intend to do it very quickly.”
Trump noted that in addition to the trade deficit the US provides Israel nearly $4 billion in assistance per year—much of it in military aid. Asked if he might be willing to reduce Israel’s tariff rate, Trump replied, “Maybe not, maybe not. Don’t forget we help Israel a lot.”
In Israel’s case, those concessions might not be economic. Trump may pressure Netanyahu to move toward ending the war in Gaza—at the very least through some interim truce with Hamas that would pause the fighting and free more hostages. Eytan Gilboa, an expert on US-Israel relations and a professor at Israel’s Bar-Ilan University, said Trump is hoping to return from his first overseas trip—expected next month to Saudi Arabia—with some movement on a deal to normalize relations with Israel, which would likely require significant Israeli concessions on Gaza.
If he does manage to move toward bolstering ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia, that would act as a regional diplomatic counterweight to pressure Iran, against
Trade war. . .
Continued from A10
White House trade adviser Peter Navarro suggested countries would need to do much more than simply lower their own tariff rates to reach deals, an indication that talks could be a drawn-out process.
“Let’s take Vietnam,” he said on CNBC. “When they come to us and say, ‘We’ll go to zero tariffs,’ that means nothing to us because it’s the non-tariff cheating that matters.”
Meeting with Trump at the White House on Monday, Netanyahu said his country would remove tariffs and other trade barriers in response to the US placing 17 percent taxes on imports from Israel.
“Israel can serve as a model for many countries who ought to do the same,” Netanyahu told the US president.
Trump said he appreciated “very much” what Netanyahu had said. But when asked if he would remove the tariffs, Trump said “maybe not” because of the aid that the United States provides to Israel. The US had
which Trump has threatened new sanctions and suggested military action over its nuclear program.
In a preemptive move last week, Israel announced that it was removing all tariffs on goods from the US, mostly on imported food and agricultural products, according to a statement from Netanyahu’s office.
But the tactic failed, and with a 17 percent rate, Israel was just one of dozens of countries that were slapped with tariffs on Trump’s so-called Liberation Day last week.
Although Israel is a tiny market for US products, the United States is a key trade partner of Israel. Much of that trade is for high-tech services, which are not directly affected by the tariffs, but key Israeli industries could be impacted.
The Manufacturers Association of Israel estimates that the tariffs will cost Israel about $3 billion in exports each year and lead to the loss of 26,000 jobs in industries that include biotechnology, chemicals, plastics and electronics. The World Bank says Israel’s gross domestic product, a measure of economic output, is over $500 billion a year.
Goldenberg reported from Tel Aviv, Israel. Associated Press writers Josef Federman in Jerusalem, Farnoush Amiri at the United Nations and Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed.
a $7.4 billion trade deficit in goods last year with Israel, according to the Census Bureau. Trump has strived for a united front after the chaotic infighting of his first term. However, the economic turbulence has exposed some fractures among his supporters. Bill Ackman, a hedge fund manager, assailed Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Sunday as “indifferent to the stock market and the economy crashing.” On Monday, Ackman apologized for his criticism claiming that Lutnick, previously the head of the financial firm Cantor Fitzgerald, could benefit from the tariffs because of its bond investments. But the hedge fund manager also reiterated his concerns about Trump’s tariffs.
“I am just frustrated watching what I believe to be a major policy error occur after our country and the president have been making huge economic progress that is now at risk due to the tariffs,” he wrote on X. The Associated Press writers Didi Tang and Stephen Groves in Washington and Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report.
Trump keeps investors on edge with clashing tariff comments
RESIDENT Donald Trump threatened to slap China with an additional 50 percent import tax, while Washington and Wall Street remained engulfed in confusion about how to gain exceptions from his sweeping global tariffs.
Trump made a litany of comments Monday about his planned duties on worldwide trading partners. Yet the president offered little clarity about what he is seeking from trading partners in exchange for lowering duty rates—or whether he’s willing to offer relief at all.
The US president said he would not consider a blanket pause on higher tariffs expected to take effect Wednesday, nor did he answer when asked if he would consider reducing rates below the minimum 10 percent. China would be hit with the higher charge if Beijing did not pull back from a plan to impose 34 percent retaliatory levies on American goods, the president vowed, a move that would add duties of 84 percent on many Chinese imports, on top of a 20 percent rate he already applied earlier this year—as well as existing measures.
Beijing said it would “fight until the end” if the US insists on imposing new tariffs, according to a statement Tuesday from the Ministry of Commerce. It also urged the Trump administration to pull back from its threats and said dialog should be used to resolve disputes instead.
A conciliatory approach also was not enough to secure a public commitment to consider tariff reductions, even from one of Trump’s closest allies. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, sporting a Trump-style red tie, promised in an Oval Office meeting with the president to eliminate his nation’s trade surplus with the US and slash tariff and non-tariff barriers.
A reporter asked if that would be enough to reduce the tariffs. “Maybe not,” Trump replied. “Don’t forget, we help Israel a lot.”
Trump’s remarks Monday capped a dizzying trading day, in which investors tried to divine any sign— however small—that he is willing to back down from raising US tariffs to their highest level in a century. Instead, slapdash and often conflicting remarks from the president and his advisers underscored the chaotic approach that has befuddled markets, and the difficulty facing even the US’s staunchest partners as they look to negotiate with Trump.
Stocks, bonds and commodities all swung wildly on Monday, as waves of volatility shook markets that struggled to digest a flood of headlines about Trump’s plans. In the most bizarre example, an erroneous report about the president’s willingness to consider a tariff pause boosted equities Monday morning before the White House dismissed it as “fake news.”
“Investors are navigating a challenging landscape in which they are left waiting for a reversal in policy,” José Torres, senior economist at Interactive Brokers, said in a note Monday. “Not only does the shifting trade policy threaten to spark a global recession, but it also materially changes the way many companies do business.” White House spokesperson Kush Desai said administration officials have “regular contact” with businesses, industries and Americans about major decisions such as the tariff campaign.
“The only special interest guiding President Trump’s decision-making, however, is the best interest of the American people—such as addressing the national emergency posed by our country running chronic trade deficits,” Desai said.
Even as Trump and his team touted outreach from dozens of countries, there appeared to be no streamlined process to consider lead-
Concerns on surging tariffs, substandard building materials, and earthquake preparedness in the PHL
Lers’ offers. There are no established systems in place at the Commerce Department, Office of the US Trade Representative or the National Economic Council to formally register complaints, according to people familiar with the matter.
One company looking to re-shore a manufacturing plant from Southeast Asia—one of Trump’s stated goals for the tariffs—can’t find anyone within the administration to talk to them about it, one of the people said.
Trump’s economic teams are overwhelmed with the number of calls and requests coming from corporate America and foreign governments, making it nearly impossible to reach anyone, people familiar with the dynamics said. The president’s own remarks highlighted the murkiness of his negotiating criteria.
Trump praised Japan, which agreed to set up cabinet-level tariff talks, for having “a very good conversation” with him but complained about lack of market access for American automobiles and agricultural products. Europe is “screwing us” on trade and will have to “buy our energy from us” to make amends, he said.
“There can be permanent tariffs and there can also be negotiations, because there are things that we need beyond tariffs,” Trump said.
Japan is likely to get priority over other US trade partners in talks thanks to coming forward quickly, said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who will lead the American side of the talks alongside US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.
Trump said he has a great relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping, but stated he would be willing to follow through with a trade war.
“It’s the only chance our country will have to reset the table, because no other president would be willing to do what I’m doing or to even go through it,” Trump said.
“Now I don’t mind going through it because I see a beautiful picture at the end, but we are making tremendous progress with a lot of countries. And the countries that really took advantage of us are now saying, ‘please negotiate.’”
Trump hasn’t ruled out extensions or deferrals before Wednesday, but it’s too soon to say if there’ll be any, a White House official said, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations.
Trump is looking for more than just tariff reductions and wants other concessions, and he’s willing to listen, but negotiations depend on how substantive an offer is, the official said.
Some lobbyists are telling corporate clients to refrain from taking their complaints to the White House and Trump’s inner circle, seeing any attempt to sway them as counterproductive, the people said. Instead, they’re urging clients to try to remain outwardly calm rather than coming across as adversarial to the White House.
Fellow billionaires are likely the only group who can sway Trump to move off his tariff policies, though even a surge of calls from the upper echelon of American business elites may not persuade the president, one person said.
Still, there has been some tacit acknowledgment within Trump’s team about the economic pain that could be inflicted if the full scope of tariffs goes into place. The Trump administration is weighing the merits of a new exporter tax credit to soften the blow. With assistance from Derek Wallbank, Jasmine Ng, Molly Smith, Matthew Boesler, Joe Deaux, Ted Mann, Daniel Flatley and Tyler Kendall /Bloomberg
Dr. Jesus Lim Arranza
MAKE SENSE
AST week, US President Donald Trump unveiled extensive new tariffs targeting nearly all of the country’s trading partners, aimed at bolstering American manufacturing. However, the decision raises concerns about potential inflation in the US and the possibility of escalating trade conflicts with key partners and allies. President Trump defended the move, stating that the tariffs are intended to boost domestic manufacturing, claiming that “our country has been looted, pillaged, raped, and plundered” by other nations.
The action amounts to a historic tax hike that could push the global order to a breaking point. Tariffs, by their very nature, will push up prices of imported goods. The additional 17 percent tariff that the US imposed on Philippine exports would be detrimental to our export industry. Even if competing products from other countries become more expensive than our exports, the fact remains that our products will still become 17 percent more expensive to the American consumers who may decide to stop buying our products and shift to cheaper substitutes. The greater issue is this: If all countries reciprocate and decide to also increase tariffs, prices of goods will definitely go up. Reciprocal tariffs, in essence, work like a cartel that adversely affect consumers. I say this because a cartel is a machination by several entities—in the case of tariffs, countries—agreeing to increase prices or hold down volume of production to increase prices. Just look at what the OPEC is doing. When they have the same result, can one be different from the other? So, I ask: Shouldn’t reciprocal tariffs be construed as acting like a cartel, which will push up prices for consumers?
I feel compelled to print again what I said in my earlier column because I really want this to sink in with our readers: What worries me is the steel tariffs slapped by President Trump against China. This will adversely impact Chinese steel producers, who will seek out alternative markets with lower tariffs. We have to be prepared because the Philippines is likely to experience a significant influx of substandard steel and other construction materials. I also want to point out that regulatory authorities have already reported the discovery of substandard steel products bearing “Made in China” markings. This is a worrying trend that requires immediate attention and action to protect the safety and integrity of buildings and infrastructure in the country. Substandard building materials can compromise the structural integrity of structures, endangering the lives of occupants.
I believe the Philippines needs to implement comprehensive safety standards for constructing buildings that can withstand earthquakes. We should ensure that only high-quality, standards-compliant materials are used in construction projects across
the country. In a recent TV interview, Dr. Teresito Bacolcol, Director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), stated that the agency is estimating a death toll of around 50,000 should “The Big One”—a 7.2 magnitude earthquake —hit the National Capital Region and nearby areas.
I have spent the better part of my 83 years fighting smuggling and other forms of illicit trade, particularly the smuggling of substandard steel and other construction materials. Substandard building materials can compromise the structural integrity of our structures, endangering the lives of Filipinos. It is crucial that policymakers and regulatory bodies take decisive steps to address this issue to protect our citizens.
Given the recent earthquake that toppled buildings in Myanmar and Thailand, we need to implement comprehensive safety standards for constructing buildings that can withstand earthquakes. We need to ensure that only high-quality, standards-compliant materials are used in construction projects across the country.
Currently, the Philippines does not have a single, national law that dictates a maximum height for skyscrapers. After the deadly Myanmar earthquake, I can’t help but be concerned about the high-rise buildings in Metro Manila. I strongly believe there is a need to revisit the National Building Code, which was enacted in 1977 and has been in effect for over 45 years, with its Implementing Rules and Regulations last revised in 2004. The building code and regulations may need to be updated to ensure the safety and resilience of structures, especially in light of evolving construction practices and technologies, as well as changes in environmental and seismic conditions.
Reviewing and potentially revising the National Building Code
could help safeguard consumers and communities from the risks posed by outdated or insufficient building standards. I urge our lawmakers and concerned authorities to thoroughly review the building material standards to ensure they are robust enough to withstand a powerful earthquake. If the current standards are insufficient, I encourage them to establish stronger and more stringent requirements. Prioritizing structural integrity and safety is crucial for protecting lives and property in the event of a strong earthquake.
We often overlook the significant risks associated with inferior building materials and inadequate building standards, until they affect us personally. It’s a harsh reality that many of us only learn to appreciate the importance of prioritizing safety and preparedness when a tragic incident strikes close to home. The valuable lesson to be learned is that being proactive and taking preventative measures can be the difference between safety and disaster.
We have been conducting regular earthquake drills to increase public awareness and preparedness for earthquakes. One important aspect of these drills is teaching the “duck, cover, and hold” safety guideline, which instructs individuals to drop to the floor, seek cover under a sturdy object, and hold on until the shaking stops. These efforts are commendable, but as I go around Metro Manila, I can’t help but wonder about the structural integrity of the many high-rise buildings. We have almost perfected the personal safety aspects of “duck, cover, and hold,” but ensuring the structural resilience of our buildings should be a top priority, alongside educating the public on individual earthquake safety measures. I must reiterate that the most important question that needs to sink in is this: Will the building hold?
Supreme Court lets Trump seek deportations under wartime law
By Greg Stohr
ADIVIDED US Supreme Court let President Donald Trump resume using a wartime law to try to deport alleged Venezuelan gang members, giving the administration a boost in a high-profile clash over the limits of presidential power.
Granting an emergency request by Trump on a 5-4 vote, the justices tossed out a lower court order that had paused deportations under the Alien Enemies Act while litigation continues. The majority said detainees must have notice and a chance to make their case to a judge before they are deported.
In an unsigned opinion, the court downplayed the significance of its decision, saying it was requiring only that detainees challenge their deportation through a so-called habeas corpus case filed in the jurisdiction where they are being held. That means the five men pressing the case will have to press their arguments in Texas, not the Washington court where they sued.
Trump hailed the decision in a social media post. “The Supreme Court has upheld the Rule of Law in our Nation by allowing a President, whoever that may be, to be able to secure our Borders, and protect our families and our Country, itself,” he wrote on Truth Social.
The majority didn’t address arguments that scores of people were deported on March 15 to a brutal prison in El Salvador without having a chance to argue that they aren’t gang members. The court instead said the detainees’ “rights against summary removal” aren’t “currently in dispute,” pointing to the Justice Department’s latest position on the issue.
In a recent court filing, the Justice Department said alleged gang members “subject to removal under the Alien Enemies Act get judicial review.”
‘Important victory’
LEE GELERNT, deputy director of the American Civil Liberties Union’s Immigrants’ Rights Project, called the ruling “an important victory” in a statement.
“The critical point of this ruling is that the Supreme Court said individuals must be given due process to challenge their removal under the Alien Enemies Act,” said Gelernt, who is lead counsel for the Venezuelans.
Justice Amy Coney Barrett joined liberal Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson in dissent.
Writing for the three liberals, Sotomayor sharply criticized the majority’s ruling and the Trump administration’s use of the Alien Enemies Act.
She said the court’s decision to rule now “is as inexplicable as it is dangerous.” She said that on March 15, “the government was engaged in a covert operation to deport dozens of immigrants without notice or an opportunity for hearings.”
Jackson said the president “invoked a centuries-old wartime statute to whisk people away to a notoriously brutal, foreign-run prison. For lovers of liberty, this should be quite concerning.”
Barrett didn’t write separately, though she joined part of Sotomayor’s opinion.
Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh formed the majority.
Trump has made unprecedented use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act,
Granting an emergency request by Trump on a 5-4 vote, the justices tossed out a lower court order that had paused deportations under the Alien Enemies Act while litigation continues. The majority said detainees must have notice and a chance to make their case to a judge before they are deported.
a law previously invoked only in the War of 1812, World War I and World War II. The measure lets the president bypass federal immigration law to deport “alien enemies” when the US is involved in a declared war or a foreign nation has started or threatened an “invasion or predatory incursion.”
The high court said it wasn’t deciding whether the administration’s interpretation of the law was correct, though the effect of the decision will be to let the government resume invoking it.
The administration has already used the Alien Enemies Act to ship more than 130 alleged members of the Tren de Aragua gang to a prison in El Salvador on March 15—even though US District Judge James Boasberg orally ordered the two planes carrying the Venezuelans to turn around mid-flight. The judge is now considering whether the government violated his orders.
An Immigration and Customs Enforcement official said March 18 that the administration had identified another 258 gang members who could be deported. Most weren’t in custody at the time of the statement.
Michael Jordan
THE administration was sued by five Venezuelans who say they aren’t gang members. Their lawyers at the American Civil Liberties Union and
Democracy Forward blasted the government for relying on factors like tattoos and Michael Jordan jerseys as conclusive markers of Tren de Aragua membership.
Without court protection, targeted people “will suffer extraordinary and irreparable harms—being sent out of the United States to a notorious Salvadoran prison, where they will remain incommunicado, potentially for the rest of their lives, without having had any opportunity to contest their designation as gang members,” the group told the Supreme Court. The Venezuelans say Trump is misusing a law that was designed for use during war with a foreign country.
The administration argued that Boasberg overstepped his authority by blocking deportations across the country. The government said people seeking to avoid deportation need to file a habeas corpus petition, which generally involves only a single person. The government also said the five men who sued must press their case in Texas, where they are being held. Boasberg’s order “is forcing the United States to harbor individuals whom national-security officials have identified as members of a foreign terrorist organization bent upon grievously harming Americans,” the Justice Department argued.
Boasberg’s pause was set to apply until April 12, and he had been considering a request for a longerterm halt. He provisionally granted class action status in the case, so his order applied to everyone covered under Trump’s March 15 proclamation targeting Tren de Aragua members.
A federal appeals court on March 26 kept Boasberg’s order in place on a 2-1 vote. With assistance from
Wednesday, April 9, 2025
‘Foreign tourist arrivals stay unchanged at 6M for 2025’
By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo
THEnumber of foreign tourists arriving in the Philippines this year is expected to remain unchanged at 6 million from 2024, with the pace of growth largely remaining flat in the first quarter of the year.
In a news briefing on Tuesday, Leechiu Property Consultants Director for Hotels, Tourism, and Leisure Alfred Lay cited the first quarter arrivals data as a sign “that we’re plateauing in terms of increases in our arrivals.” Data from the Department of Tourism (DOT) showed 1.65 million foreign tourist arrivals from January to March this year, a 0.60-percentage point dip from the same period in 2024.
He noted, though, that arrivals from South Korea, which fell by 14 percent to 395,059 in the said period, may be attributed to the weakening of the South Korean Won in December due to their political
issues. “Let’s not forget that that source market was really the key driver of our [tourism] rebound. We should need to be very, very mindful, be cautious, and seek solutions to deal with that.” (See, “PHL attracts 1.65M foreign tourists in Q1, DOT reports,” in the BusinessMirror, April 4, 2025.)
Lay also pointed out that China, which used to be among the top five source markets for tourists since 2008, is absent for the first time in the first quarter arrivals data.
Resilient Fil-Am market, but... UNDER the baseline scenario of the National Tourism Develop -
ment Plan (NTDP) for 2023-2028, the DOT has targeted foreign tourists to reach 8.4 million this year. However, last year’s poor arrivals performance—missing the 7.7 million goal—has forced the DOT to rethink its targets for the remaining years of the NTDP. The agency has yet to release said recalibrated targets.
Asked if his 2025 arrivals estimate already considers a possible impact by the global trade war initiated by the Trump administration, Lay said, “In terms of tariffs and travel…yes, the American market is a very strong market of the Philippines. [But] the source market and the type of people traveling from America to the Philippines is a very resilient, robust market. We’re talking about families which are reuniting. We’re talking about who are traveling across to the country despite whatever situation is happening in the world. We saw that during Covid as well, the American market stayed very strong traveling to the Philippines.”
Prior to the pandemic, there were over 1.06 million tourists from the US, accounting for 12.9 percent of
the 8.3-million total arrivals. In 2024, arrivals from the US fell to 947,891, yet accounted for 15.93 percent of the 5.95-million total inbound tourists. Filipino-American visitors grew substantially to 128,772 in 2024 from just 44,422 in 2019.
Monitor airline supply chains
YET Lay acknowledged there could be “secondary effects” from the tariff wars started by the US, that may lead to a “recession.” Said upheaval in the global economy, he noted would affect tourism “because it is discretionary spending.”
He pointed out that the larger impact on travel, which should be monitored, is the “supply chains of airlines.” With just two large international aircraft manufacturers—Boeing and Airbus—and just some 20,000 suppliers for some 50 countries, along with tariffs averaging between 10 and 49 percent, “then that’s going to be a lot of pressure on airfares and airlines’ ability to find spare parts, move supply chains to America, etc.”
The International Air Transport
THE country’s manufacturing sector slowed down in February 2025, mainly due to a sharp drop in basic metals production, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
The Value of Production Index for manufacturing declined by 1.6 percent in February 2025, after a 3-percent increase in January and a 1.8-percent rise in February 2024. There was a 35.6-percent drop in basic metals production, which had a smaller decrease of 9.5 percent in January. It made up 34.5 percent of the overall drop in production for the month.
“Out of the 22 industry divisions for the manufacturing section, manufacture of basic metals was the industry division with the fifth highest weight in the computation of VaPI for manufacturing,” the PSA stated.
Other factors contributing to the slowdown included a smaller increase in the production of machinery and equipment, which grew by 29.1 percent compared to 64.1 percent the month before. Chemical products also saw a bigger decline, falling 21.1 percent in February after just a 1.2 percent drop in January.
“Of the remaining 19 industry divisions, three exhibited annual drops in their VaPI during
‘Asean+3 must manage excessive credit growth, stabilize capital flows’
By Andrea E. San Juan
ASEAN+3 economies must take proactive measures to strengthen “macroprudential” regulations to manage excessive credit growth and stabilize capital flows, according to Asean +3 Macroeconomic Research Office (Amro).
In a commentary on April 8, Amro explained Japan’s “ultra-low” interest rates made the yen a preferred funding currency for carry trades (also known as yen-funded carry trades), particularly against the US dollar, Mexican peso, and Brazilian real.
This trend, AMRO noted, “intensified” after the US Federal Reserve began “aggressively” hiking rates in 2022, which widened the yield gap and attracted even more capital into yen-funded carry trades.
In mid-2024, however, this dynamic began to reverse, AMRO noted.
“A series of developments prompted investors to exit their yen-funded carry trades, which led to a sharp appreciation of the yen. Amid an environment of elevated inflation in the US, weaker-than-expected July employment data raised concerns about a slowdown in the US economy, increasing market volatility. At the same time, the Fed signaled a potential rate cut and the Bank of Japan raised its policy rate, leading investors to rethink yield differentials between Japan and the US,” added Amro.
As a result, the yen strengthened and the yen-funded carry trades “lost value.”
“Traders scrambled to exit their positions and limit their losses by buying the yen (and selling their higher-yielding assets), thus contributing to further yen appreciation and snowballing the unwinding of more yen-funded carry trades,” Amro explained.
With this, the Asean+3 research office noted that the unwinding of yen-funded carry trades “presents both risks and opportunities” for Asean+3 economies which includes the 10 members of the Asean plus
the period, while the other 16 industry divisions posted annual increments,” it stated.
Despite the overall dip, some sectors saw growth, like leather and leather products (including footwear), which jumped by 30.9 percent.
The Value of Production Index for food products grew by 12.1 percent in February 2025, up from 10.9 percent in January. Meanwhile, the Volume of Production Index for manufacturing dropped 2.4 percent yearon-year in February, compared to a 2.3-percent rise in January and a 3.2-percent increase in February last year. Basic metals still led the decline with a 36.5 percent drop, followed by machinery (27.9 percent increase down from 60.6 percent) and chemicals (22.5 percent decline).
“Of the remaining 19 industry divisions, five posted annual declines in February 2025. Meanwhile, 14 industry divisions exhibited annual increments during the period,” it said. The top three industry divisions contributing to the yearon-year growth of the Volume of Production Index for manufacturing in February 2025 were: basic metals, chemicals and
See “PSA,”
Comelec gets 50 complaints vs vote buying, Garcia reports
By Samuel P. Medenilla
China, Japan, and Korea. Amro said these economies have had “limited” direct exposure to yen-funded carry trades, making them “less vulnerable” to abrupt shifts in investor sentiment.
“However, given the interconnected nature of global finance, they are not immune to broader market volatility,” Amro stressed.
Although Asean+3 economies have not been primary targets for yen-funded carry trades, the potential risks associated with speculative capital inflows cannot be ignored, the international organization said.
If foreign investment surges, Amro said, it could lead to asset bubbles and financial instability, posing significant risks to economic resilience.
In addition, it noted that even with limited direct exposure, largescale unwinding of carry trades can result in “sharp exchange rate fluctuations.”
“Such volatility can disrupt local financial markets and complicate monetary policy decisions, making it imperative for policymakers to remain vigilant,” added Amro.
As Asean+3 economies become “more integrated” into global financial markets, Amro said these countries’ exposure to external shocks increases.
“Rising offshore borrowing and the potential investments into local currencies in future carry trades could amplify risks to financial stability,” added Amro.
With this “growing interconnectedness,” Amro underscored the need for proactive measures to “safeguard economic stability and strengthen financial resilience.”
To address these risks, Amro said policymakers must implement measures such as “countercyclical capital buffers” which it said can help manage excessive credit growth and stabilize capital flows.
“Additionally, developing more resilient financial markets is crucial. Expanding domestic bond markets and promoting local-currency financing can reduce reliance
WITH over a month before the May 12 midterm polls, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said it already received 50 vote-buying complaints nationwide.
In an interview with reporters last Tuesday, Comelec Chairman George M. Garcia said their Kontra Bigay Committee is now tracking down the local and national candidates involved in the said complaints.
“The committee on anti-vote buying has already received almost 50 complaints for vote buying and this is currently being investigated and then we will issue show cause orders to all of the almost 50 complaints that were forwarded to us,” he said. The poll chief said the cases included the misuse of barangay vehicles for the election campaign of some candidates, which is considered an abuse of state resources. It also includes cases of candidates who are seen directly handing out cash or items to people, as well as those who organize meetings and hand out some gifts to those who attend the said events.
The poll chief noted social media played a significant role in documenting the suspected vote buying incidents.
“Social media is very powerful if used correctly. I hope we can use it correctly to expose such people so that we can at least help in stopping them from buying votes or insulting others,” Garcia said.
“I hope we can use social media not to destroy others but to protect the rights of each person. That is the good use of social media,” he added. Garcia said they will continue to try to make it easier for the public to report such election offenses through their newly formed committees such as Kontra Daya.
“We empower our citizenry through the use of social media. But at the same time we promise our citizens the Commission on Elections will be proactive in matters like this,” he said. See “Asean,” A5
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
B1 Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Aboitiz infra arm preps airport’s Apr handover
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
ABOITIZ InfraCapital Inc. (AIC) announced last Tuesday preparations for the phased handover of Laguindingan International Airport’s land, buildings and facilities ahead of its full takeover scheduled for April 2025.
Cosette V. Canilao, the company’s president and CEO, said the handover is part of the preliminary steps in AIC’s P12.75-billion, 30-year concession agreement with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap), signed in October 2024.
“We are committed to delivering an efficient and well-managed tran-
minimal disruption to operations.
The airport’s existing facilities— ranging from air traffic control and maintenance buildings to power and water supply systems—will be reviewed and upgraded.
AIC Vice-President for Airports
Business Rafael M. Aboitiz said their vision for the airport “is to create a world-class gateway that will drive economic progress and connectivity for Mindanao.”
sition process that paves the way for the modernization of Laguindingan International Airport. Our goal is to enhance the gateway’s infrastructure and services to meet the growing demands of travelers and businesses,” Canilao said.
The phased handover includes coordination with local stakeholders and the implementation of planning and transition measures to ensure
“This project is a key milestone in our goal of elevating Philippine aviation standards and delivering an exceptional Filipino brand of hospitality and service,” Aboitiz added.
Laguindingan is currently the sixth-busiest in the country and the second-busiest in Mindanao after Davao’s Francisco Bangoy International Airport. It has been operational since 2013 and features a 7,184-square meter passenger ter-
minal, a 350-sqm cargo terminal and critical airside and landside infrastructure.
The redevelopment plan includes renovating and expanding the passenger terminal, upgrading airside and landside facilities and installing modern aviation equipment.
The goal is to raise Laguindingan’s capacity from 1.6 million passengers annually to 3.9 million in the first phase and to 6.3 million in the second phase, depending on demand.
AIC, the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, is also preparing to assume operations of Bohol-Panglao International Airport in June 2025 under a similar public-private partnership setup. Pegged at P4.53 billion, the project likewise entails terminal expansion and systems upgrades.
Aside from the two airports, the Aboitiz Group also operates the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
Century Pacific bares ‘24 income
ENTURY Pacific Food Inc.,
Cthe food and beverage firm of the Po family, recorded a net income of P6.3 billion last year, which is 14-percent higher than the previous year’s P5.57 billion, as inflation rate in 2024 hit a year-to-date average of 3.2 percent.
Consolidated revenues reached P75.5 billion, reflecting a 12 percent growth from the previous P67.12 billion, mainly from the good performance of the group’s diverse portfolio.
According to the company, its sales growth was broad-based, with both its original equipment manufacturing exports and branded segment delivering positive performance.
“Diversification allowed us to navigate economic headwinds more
First Gen receives 7th LNG delivery
F IRST Gen Corp. (FGen) has received its first LNG (liquefied natural gas) cargo from Qatar, its seventh LNG cargo delivery to date. The arrival of the LNG tanker Simaisma at FGen’s terminal in Batangas marked another milestone—the first delivery of an LNG cargo from Qatar, supplied by QatarEnergy LNG.
This development was posted online last Tuesday.
“On the gas side, we will be receiving our seventh LNG cargo since the start of our terminal’s operations in the second half of 2023. We expect LING supply deliveries in April and May to address the increased electricity demand during the hot summer months,” First Gen President Francis Giles B. Puno said last month.
The LNG purchased by First Gen will be utilized by its four gas-fired power plants at its Clean Energy Complex in Batangas, with a combined installed capacity of 2,017 megawatts (MW). Lenie Lectura
effectively, with exports benefiting from a favorable commodity cycle and global demand—providing uplift amid a subdued domestic environment,” Century Pacific Chief Financial Officer Richard Kristoffer S. Manapat said.
The company said its exports, comprised of both tuna and coconut export businesses, propelled the company’s topline growth, with revenues surging 36 percent yearon-year.
The commodity-linked segment benefited from a low base, favorable input costs, and robust global demand for healthy and nutritious products.
Meanwhile, in the face of a soft consumer environment, the firm’s branded segment saw a 7-percent rise. The segment accelerated in the
fourth quarter, up by 10 percent compared to the same period last year.
The company’s branded segment, which accounts for the majority of sales, is composed of marine, meat, milk and other emerging verticals. The segment’s performance was underpinned by volume-led growth, supported by a vast portfolio of brands across multiple price tiers and a strong focus on brand-building campaigns and promotional efforts.
Century Pacific saw gross margins expand by 210 basis points to 26.1 percent due to improvements in input costs. Gains were reinvested into demand-generating activities and sustainability initiatives.
Operating cash flows amounted to P8.1 billion, funding capacity expansion, increased dividends, and debt repayments. During the year,
Century Pacific acquired Coco Harvest Inc., a coconut processing facility that started operating in November last year.
“We’re already seeing signs of a better consumer environment as we enter 2025. So far, our first quarter has gone as planned,” Manapat said.
“While that gives us reason to be optimistic, we remain mindful of lingering uncertainties on the cost side and ongoing shifts in the global trading environment,” he added. “We plan to tread 2025 with caution—remaining agile and responsive to change. We believe our diverse and resilient portfolio equips us well to navigate these crosswinds and continue delivering on our aspiration of doubledigit growth—while staying true to our purpose of delivering affordable nutrition to the market.” VG Cabuag
Registration with SEC fully online
THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced that company registration process would be fully online, with no notarization and hard copy submission required. The move is embodied in Memorandum Circular 3 that the SEC issued on April 4. MC 3 provides for the mandatory use of the agency’s “Zuper Easy Registration Online,” or Zero, in the registration of corporations utilizing the “Electronic Simplified Processing of Application for Registration of Company,” or eSPARC, and the “One Day Submission and E-registration of Companies,” or OneSEC, as portals.
“Zero” is an application under eSPARC that eliminates the need for physical signatures and notarization, as well as the submission of hard copies of registration documents.
The system is integrated with the “Electronic SEC User Registration Environment,” or eSECURE (which credentials users before they can access online services of the SEC) and the “Electronic Submission Authentication Portal,” or eSAP, which makes use of one-time passwords (OTPs) to electronically authenticate SECrequired documents, in lieu of conventional paper-based signatures.
Launched in July last year as part of the regulator’s “third wave” of digital initiatives, the SEC’s Zero has since facilitated the registration of a total of 1,874 companies.
“SEC Zero exemplifies our commitment to digitalization and sustainability, making setting up a business easier and faster than ever. By allowing companies to authenticate their registration documents online, company registration can now be done anytime and anywhere,” SEC Chairman Emilio B. Aquino said.
“The credentialing process through eSECURE, plus authentication through eSAP, further enables us to filter out scheming individuals wanting to use the corporate vehicle to defraud the public. With this, those registering corporations are identified and can be held accountable, if need be,” Aquino added.
Under the guidelines, all domestic stock corporations, excluding lending and financing companies, shall be processed through SEC Zero starting April 7. This includes corporations fully owned by Filipinos or those with foreign equity. Meanwhile, all Filipino domestic stock corporations may be processed using the OneSEC. Lending companies, financing companies, and foreign corporations shall use the regular processing under eSPARC for three months after the effectivity of MC 3. Thereafter, the mandatory use of SEC Zero shall apply to all types of corporations.
To register a company, applicants must first create an eSECURE account through https://esecure.sec. gov.ph/. The account must undergo the credentialing process to ensure
that the one applying for registration is a real person. The system will also be able to validate the tax identification number of an applicant by cross matching records with the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
Once the applicant has an eSECURE account, s/he will be directed to the eSPARC portal at https://esparc.sec.gov.ph. Applicants will then be required to input the company registration details such as company type, company name, office address, capital structure, and officers, among others, across six steps.
Upon completion of the required details, the application will be submitted online. The applicant will receive an email notification that his or her application has been confirmed, after which the system-generated documents will be ready for authentication of the incorporators and corporate officers.
All incorporators and corporate officers must authenticate the documents through eSAP by using their respective eSECURE accounts. The authentication process involves receiving an OTP to the registered mobile number and email address of the incorporator and corporate officer, who will input the same into the system.
Once the OTP is verified, the system will indicate that the document has been successfully authenticated. This means that the document is already signed. VG Cabuag
ABy VG Cabuag @villygc
FTER spending most of the time on the red, the shares of Cebu-based Top Line Business Development Corp. slightly fell during first day of trading at the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE).
The company, now trading under the symbol TOP, listed its 2.14 billion primary common shares with an overallotment option of up to 214.84 million secondary shares at a price of P0.31 per share, with the company raising P732.6 million TOP closed at P0.30, or 3-percent lower than its initial public offering (IPO) price of P0.31. It opened weak at P0.30 and went down as low as P0.28 before regaining most of its losses.
The benchmark index, meanwhile, rose 3 percent or 183.49 points to close at 6,006.34 points.
Top Line is the first IPO of the year and the first Cebu-based company to complete an IPO in almost a decade.
“Today marks the culmination of years of [Top Line’s] planning, learning and focusing as we witness the realization of its dream to be a listed company. TOP will be the sixth company which is either Cebu-based and/or has operations mainly in Cebu to have listed in the exchange,” PSE President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon said.
“Since listing dates are milestones, it is understandable that there are investors who put a lot of importance on their stock’s performance on its stock market debut. But as I said many times, an IPO is not the be-all or end-all of a company’s existence. It is just the beginning,” Monzon added. “Being listed gives a company a seal of good housekeeping in terms of good governance, regulatory compliance and implicit transparency of management.”
“We actually prepared for the IPO before the pandemic,” Top Line President and CEO Eugene Erik C. Lapasaran Lim said. “Interestingly enough, it was even part of our vision statement: ‘To be a publicly listed company.’ But the problem was, we did not know how. At the
same time, the PSE actually has this program called ‘LEAP’ [Listing Engagement and Assistance Program] that helps companies prepare for a possible listing; and so we also joined.”
“While we acknowledge broader market challenges affecting investor sentiment both locally and globally, we are glad for our IPO’s oversubscription, receiving overwhelming support from our institutional and retail investors,” Lim added. He vows the company “is committed to maximizing our investors’ shareholder value.”
“And at the same time to give more fresh ideas to the industry, to innovate and incorporate more technologies to our supply chains and expansion network and to make it even more efficient and future-ready,” Lim said. The net proceeds from the shares sold to the public will fund Top Line’s vertical integration, importation and expansion plans sought to provide flexibility and reliability in its fuel supply as it penetrates the retail market of Central Visayas.
With its IPO, the current ten “Light Fuels” service stations is set to expand to 30 through the construction of additional 20 service stations, strengthening Top Line’s market presence in Cebu Province and reinforcing its commitment to growth.
Investment and Capital Corp. of the Philippines served as the company’s issue manager, joint lead underwriter and joint bookrunner for the IPO. PNB Capital and Investment Corp. was tasked as the joint lead underwriter and joint bookrunner.
SMART Communications Inc., in partnership with sister company PLDT Enterprise Inc., announced last Tuesday it has rolled out a network-based authentication technology aimed at protecting key economic sectors from cybercrime.
In a statement, the mobile network operator said it is now leveraging the newly GSMAcertified Open Gateway API to introduce Silent Authentication (SA)—a frictionless mobile verification method that bypasses traditional one-time passwords (OTPs), which have become frequent targets for phishing and interception.
The SA technology embeds security directly into the network layer, providing businesses with real-time identity verification without interrupting the user journey.
According to PLDT Enterprise First Vice President John R. Gonzales, the solution is gaining traction across major sectors, particularly economic drivers.
Gonzales explained that in
banking and finance, where every login and fund transfer is a potential point of vulnerability, Silent Authentication enables faster, safer mobile access while drastically reducing exposure to fraud. He added that in e-commerce and retail, the technology acts as a bulwark against account takeovers and fraudulent purchases, helping merchants cut down on costly chargebacks and build greater buyer confidence. For small and regional enterprises, the solution is democratizing cybersecurity, making enterprise-grade protection accessible to businesses that previously lacked the resources to fortify their digital operations, Gonzales said.
“As cyber threats continue to evolve, businesses must stay ahead by integrating secure yet seamless authentication methods,” he added. “Through the SA and Open Gateway APIs, we are creating a future where digital trust is built into every transaction, empowering businesses and consumers alike.” Lorenz S. Marasigan
Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug
DTI strengthens entrep support, returns intensive and food safety program for regulatory success
DTI and TikTok collab to revolutionize Pinoy enterprise with digital boost
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and ByteDance Philippines, Inc., the operator of TikTok, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with the necessary digital skills and innovative online selling strategies.
Led by DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque and TikTok Shop Director Paolo Lorenzo David, this partnership is strategically designed to expand the market reach andaccelerate the growth of local businesses by leveraging digital platforms to trans-
The program also emphasizes compliance with e-commerce regulations and ethical selling practices, while offering onboarding guidance to help sellers establish a strong foundation for long-term success on TikTok Shop.
Beyond training, this initiative enhances MSMEs’ visibility through promotional campaigns under TikTok Shop’s Buy Local, Shop Local campaign and other media engagements. Additionally, the DTI will orient TikTok’s micro sellers with the Barangay Micro Business Enterprise Act, which provides valu-
form their operational landscape.
“The true strength of this partnership lies in its broad accessibility, making it easier for Filipino MSMEs to tap into new opportunities. This includes micro-entrepreneurs and growing businesses that use smartphones and ring lights to showcase products and access a wider audience. With the right support, platform, and resources, this joint effort will
able incentives and benefits to small businesses.
The UNLAD LOKAL will be rolled out across the NCR, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, ensuring that no Filipino entrepreneur is left behind in the digital transformation.
With over 2 million sellers worldwide, TikTok has evolved into a significant e-commerce hub, where Filipino entrepreneurs are emerging
continue to fuel their progress,” said Secretary Roque.
The MOU signing coincided with the launch of this year’s UNLAD LOKAL initiative. Building on the success of the 2024 Camp Asenso learning session, the launch of UNLAD LOKAL featured a graduation ceremony for the first batch of 33 local entrepreneurs from the National Capital Region (NCR) who completed an intensive two-day training.
The UNLAD LOKAL is a structured learning workshop that covers key areas crucial for online success. It includes seller center navigation for efficient store management, affiliate marketing education to boost sales through partnerships, and content creation strategies to engage customers through creative storytelling.
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has launched the 2025 iteration of the Food Connect Program to capacitate more entrepreneurs in securing the License to Operate (LTO) and Certificate of Product Registration (CPR) from the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Facilitated by the DTI MIMAROPA, in collaboration with the DTI Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC), the program is a specialized training package of the DTI-PTTC. It helps micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) functioning as food business operators in complying with mandatory FDA regulatory requirements. The program comprises two courses: Course 1, focusing on FDA-LTO registration, and Course 2, focusing on FDA-CPR registration.
For the 2025 program, a total of 28 MSMEs have registered for Course 1, which began on March 31. The virtual opening of Course 1 was attended by DTI MIMAROPA Regional Director EnP. Amormio CJS Benter, CESE, DTI-PTTC Officer-in-Charge
Fe Avila, participating MSMEs, and other representatives from the DTI MIMAROPA and PTTC.
Course 1, scheduled in the first week of May, consists of three tracks:
n Track 1: Awareness of food safety, current good manufacturing practice, and FDA-LTO documentary requirements;
n Track 2: Documentation and establishment of safety and quality management systems, good manufacturing practices, and sanitation standard operating procedures; and n Track 3: Compliance with FDALTO documentation, food labeling regulat ions, and food recall.
Meanwhile, Course 2 has 25 enrolled MSMEs and is scheduled from May 13 to 16. This course focuses
on shelf-life determination, product and process standardization, and compliance with FDA-CPR documentary requirements.
Each track within both courses includes one-on-one consultations, product testing and interpretation, and mentoring sessions.
The Food Connect Program aligns with several United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1: End poverty, SDG 2: End hunger, SDG 3: Good health and well-being, SDG 6: Clean water and sanitation, SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth, and SDG 12: Sustainable consump -
tion and production.
During his welcoming remarks, Regional Director Benter emphasized the DTI MIMAROPA’s commitment to supporting One Town, One Product Program-assisted MSMEs. He emphasized the importance of building stronger food safety systems to enable these businesses to compete more effectively in the market.
Since its last implementation in 2023, the regional rollout of the Food Connect Program has already helped five MSMEs secure their FDA-LTO and aided two others in obtaining FDA-CPR for their products.
EY announces 24 women founders selected for the EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women Asia-Pacific Class of ’25
THE EY organization has named the 24 women founders selected for the Asia-Pacific Class of 2025 for the EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women™ program. The bespoke executive program identifies and champions a select group of high-potential founders who have built profitable companies and provides them with connections and resources needed to unlock their potential and sustainably scale their companies.
This year’s cohort is a group of visionary women entrepreneurs who are committed to empowering their long-term growth and scalability, representing more than 10 markets in the Asia-Pacific Region. As key decision makers in their enterprise, they are shaping the future in a changing world, embracing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and more.
Claire Cardno, EY Asia-Pacific Risk
Is there a
Was key players.
TikTok Shop Marketing Lead Franco Aligaen reaffirmed TikTok’s commitment to ongoing mentorship for local entrepreneurship even after the program concludes.
“We’ve seen many small businesses grow on TikTok Shop, reaching thousands, sometimes millions, of customers. Through UNLAD LOKAL, we want to help even more MSMEs achieve that same success,” he said.
Driven by President Marcos Jr.’s “Bagong Pilipinas” agenda and supported by expert mentorship, advanced digital tools, and a thriving online marketplace, the DTI asserts that Filipino businesses are primed for sustained growth and poised to achieve significant success.
ALT Disney once said that “Courage is the main quality of leadership no matter where it is exercised.” This statement is true and demonstrates how courage is integral to leadership. As such, without courage, we cannot truly and consistently practice any leadership virtues like integrity, compassion, humility, accountability, honesty and resilience. As sales leaders, we face various types of challenges on a daily basis from the mundane to the really difficult types. And we need courage in order deal with each one. And while I’m a proponent of choosing your battles, I heed to Abraham Lincoln’s wise reminder that “we cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrows by evading it today.” Here are four types of courage that we must learn to muster in order to succeed in leadership.
The courage to make decisions IN my opinion, the most difficult task of a sales leader is making decisions. Most people shy away from leadership positions because they dread the thought of making a wrong decision. Unfortunately, there are times when leaders make mistakes, but mind you, it takes a lot of courage to be decisive. But what makes leadership more arduous is when you decide on the right thing but
Management Leader and EY Asia-Pacific Women. Fast Forward Executive Sponsor, says: “I am honored to be part of an organization that champions women at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey. With our extensive network, AsiaPacific-focused initiatives and leadingclass resources, we remain committed to fueling your growth and success on the world stage. Here’s to this year’s cohort of Entrepreneurial Winning Women in Asia-Pacific—the future is yours to lead!” This year’s participants run highgrowth businesses across a wide variety of sectors including technology, consumer products, real estate and design, and media and entertainment. According to EY analysis, these companies generated a combined revenue of more than US$1.2b in 2024 and employed more than 11,000 people.
Loletta Chow, Asia-Pacific EY Private Leader, and Co-Executive Sponsor, EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women AsiaPacific, says: “Congratulations to our inspiring EY Winning Women on their remarkable achievements! Your vision and determination are shaping the future of entrepreneurship with confidence. I am proud to support visionary women through our Winning Women program— empowering them to unlock their full potential, scale their businesses, and make a global impact.” The Asia-Pacific program is part of a worldwide community of EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women. Launched in 2008, the program now has more than 1,000 women entrepreneurs, building companies in more than 60 markets across all industries.
Henry M. Tan, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Philippines Program Di -
the multitude failed to realize it. As Mahatma Gandhi puts it, “It is easy to stand in the crowd but it takes courage to stand alone.”
The courage to stand on principles “ THE ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenges and controversy”— Martin Luther King. As a sales leader, you need to “draw the line” based on your personal principles, and it takes a lot of courage to do so. Remember, your leadership position should not shape who you are. Instead, it should be
the other way around—your principles should shape your brand of leadership.
rector, says: “I am thrilled to celebrate the remarkable achievements of this year’s cohort of Entrepreneurial Winning Women in the Asia-Pacific region. These visionary founders exemplify resilience and innovation, driving their businesses to new heights while embracing the transformative power of technology. Our commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs remains steadfast, and we are excited to provide them with the resources and connections necessary to scale sustainably and lead in an ever-evolving landscape. Together, we are shaping a future where women entrepreneurs not only thrive but also inspire the next generation of leaders.” For more information on the EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women Asia-Pacific program, visit ey.com/en_gl/entrepreneurial-winning-women-asia-pacific
The courage to receive rejections IN truth, rejection is a common occurrence that usually happens daily. In fact, if you’re wondering why you’re not getting your usual dose of rejections lately, it’s either your batting average in getting a yes considerably improved or perhaps you’re not doing enough to talk to people about your business. Chances are that you are holding back on those meetings. Why? Because you probably lack courage to “eat rejections with breakfast.” Develop the courage to receive rejections. After all, it’s not just for sales leadership—it’s a
THE Department of Trade and Industry has launched the 2025 iteration of the Food Connect Program to capacitate more entrepreneurs in securing the License to Operate and Certificate of Product Registration from the Philippine Food and Drug Administration.
DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque and TikTok Shop Marketing Lead Franco Aligaen
CORO HOTEL, ‘STYLISH MAG’ UNVEILED ARTISAN WEEKEND WITH ‘STYLE VISIONARY RUNWAYS MANILA’ FASHION SHOW
AMID the thriving clubbing culture of Poblacion in Makati City is a charming boutique hotel named Coro Hotel. Derived from the Spanish word “Coro” which means choir, it is apparent that Coro Hotel was born out of love for music, arts and culture.
Part of its efforts to position the hotel property as a hub for Filipino arts, fashion and culture, Coro Hotel unveiled the Style Visionary Runways Manila fashion show, co-produced with independent publishing brand Stylish Magazine. The runway presentation was a soft launch to introduce Coro’s Artisan Weekend, a lifestyle bazaar happening from May 16 to 18 in partnership with Stylish Magazine, which will house various Filipino arts, fashion and cultural brands from across the country. On March 28, Coro Hotel’s Fusion Forum served as the backdrop of Style Visionary Runways Manila fashion show— featuring Filipino fashion houses Fred Telarma, Heleyna Bridal by Janina Saspa, and Anna Cheung Couture by Joanna Fungo. The show was meant to put the spotlight on the “Filipino Identity in Fashion on the Global Stage.” Opening the runway capsule presentation was Fred Telarma. Known for his avant garde creations, his Style Visionary Runways Manila collection showcased Asianinspired silhouettes, made of Filipino indigenous fabrics. The creations were a breath of fresh air, as they were more wearable than Telarma’s usual avant garde aesthetics. A parade of vibrant bright colors with a hint of Filipino indigenous prints, the collection showed the wider possibility of modern Filipino identity in the global fashion scene.
Heleyna Bridal by Janina Saspa brought in the heartthumping romance on the runway with her ethereal, feminine bridal creations. Featuring the Filipiniana butterfly sleeves masterfully incorporated in modern, sensual bridal silhouettes, the pieces exuded the traditionality and stylishness of the modern Pinay bride. The collection was called Pamamanhikan —an ode to traditional Filipinos asking the parents for the hand in marriage, with flowers and written promises of life full of romance—as seen in the hand-painted cocoon of orchids on the creations. The gowns and dresses highlighted different bridal laces and embroidery details, some of these details being the words of the marriage vows incorporated in the pieces—an art Janina Saspa has been known for in the local bridal fashion scene.
Joanna Fungo, creative director of Anna Cheung Couture, was thrilled to finally present her Paris Fashion Week SS 2025 collection in Manila for the first time ever with her Pilipinas Kong Mahal collection at the Style Visionary Runways Manila show. Joanna truly highlighted the beauty of Filipino indigenous fabrics, using the Landap weave of Maranao, Inaul weave from Mindanao, and T’nalak weave from South Cotabato in her creations. Her finale Terno ball gowns showed the usual grandiosity of traditional Philippine couture, a beauty globally known in the fashion scene. With Style Visionary Runways Manila, fashion insiders had a preview of what they can expect from Coro Hotel and Stylish Magazine’s Artisan Weekend happening on May 16, 17 and 18. Championing the Filipino fashion, arts and culture has been the main vision of the collaboration of Coro Hotel and Stylish Magazine, uplifting Filipino artisans and creatives by providing platforms where they can sell and showcase their locally made products.
Image
The value of staying put
WE live in a culture that idolizes progress. Everywhere you go there is pressure to level up, whether to earn more, achieve more, or become more.
Social media bombards us with stories of people who wake up at 5 am to meditate, work out, build side businesses, and optimize every moment of their day.
Self-help books tell us we should always be pushing toward personal growth, and our leaders warn us that if we are not advancing, we are falling behind.
But what if that is not true? What if, instead of always striving for more, there is wisdom, and even happiness, in staying exactly where you are?
Not every season of life needs to be about progress. Sometimes, pausing is essential because standing still is not always stagnation. Just like trees rest to strengthen their roots and farmers let fields recover, we too need time to recharge. Constant striving can lead to burnout and stops us from appreciating what we have already achieved. Instead of always asking, “What is next?”, we should also ask, “What is enough?”.
There is a concept in psychology called the plateau phase where one’s progress slows or seems to stop. We often see this as a setback but it is actually necessary to solidify progress, allowing us time to reflect and appreciate how far we have come. If you are always moving forward, you will miss that. Learning a skill starts with quick progress, but growth eventually slows down. True improvement is not just about constant motion. It is also about absorbing and refining what you have already gained.
If you are in a period where you do not feel the urge to chase new goals, that is okay. For many people, it becomes a challenge to pause especially when they are so used to always doing something. First, give yourself permission to pause. Society tells us that pausing is the same as giving up. It is not. Choosing to stay where you are does not mean you are lazy or unmotivated. It means you are honoring the stage of life you are in. Instead of feeling guilty about not pushing forward, try asking yourself: “What do I enjoy about my life right now?”
Next, find joy in the present. When you are always focused on the next goal, it is easy to overlook the good things that already exist. Use this time to be grateful.
Notice the small moments like the way your coffee tastes in the morning, the laughter of a friend, the simple pleasure of reading a book with no agenda.
Instead of trying to be better, focus on just being in the present.
Another thing you can do is to engage in hobbies without pressure. In today’s hustle culture, even hobbies have become things to optimize. People feel like they have to monetize their passions, track their
progress, or turn everything into a side hustle. But some activities should just be fun. Paint, write, cook, play music without worrying about getting better or achieving something. Do it because it makes you happy, not because it is productive.
Nurturing what you already have is just as important as seeking something new. Not every aspect of life needs constant improvement. If your career is stable and you do not feel the urge to climb the corporate ladder, that is okay. Instead, focus on deepening your expertise, enjoying your work, or simply maintaining a healthy balance. If your relationships are strong, invest in them rather than seeking new connections. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is tend to the things that already bring you joy.
Finally, trust that growth will happen naturally. Some of the biggest periods of transformation happen when we are not forcing them. When we stop chasing progress, we make space for unexpected growth. Creativity, insight and new ideas often come out when
we allow ourselves to rest. Trust that development does not always have to be an active process. Sometimes, it happens in the quiet moments. Our culture rarely applauds the idea of enough. We glorify ambition, success, and the endless pursuit of more. But sometimes, contentment is the most radical act. What if, instead of constantly seeking improvement, you could simply embrace where you are? What if you could wake up in the morning, not feeling the pressure to change, but feeling satisfied with what you already have?
Choosing to stay put is not the same as giving up. It is about recognizing that growth is not always linear. It is about trusting that you do not need to be in a constant state of self-improvement to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. So, if you are tired of chasing the next big thing, take this as your sign. It is okay to pause. It is okay to be still. It is okay to just be. You do not always need to improve. Often, we worry too much about tomorrow that we forget to live in the now. n
Tips to strengthen your relationship with yourself
A HEALTHY connection with oneself is vital for overall well-being. Self-trust is the foundation of all relationships. It nurtures self-esteem, improves emotional regulation, and allows better stress management toward a more positive and fulfilled life.
Psychotherapist Leah Marone, LCSW stated in this fast-paced, always-connected world, there is a relentless pull to be “on” constantly— responding to messages, keeping up with social media, and staying busy.
“This constant engagement can lead to burnout, anxiety, and a disconnection from yourself,” she explained. “To counteract this, it is crucial to cultivate the ability to be comfortable with just being—without the need for constant distractions.”
Marone, a corporate wellness consultant who speaks on performance anxiety, resilience and mindfulness, highlighted the significant impact of regular selfcheck-ins.
“It increases self-awareness and emotional intelligence, reduces stress and anxiety levels, and enhances the ability to stay present and focused,” she added. The expert clarified strengthening the relationship with oneself is an ongoing process which requires dedication, patience and consistent practice. Thus, she emphasized the importance of
incorporating advanced strategies into daily routines.
To guide the general public, the specialists from the Benilde WellBeing Center of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde shared Marone’s tips as published on Psychology Today, the world’s largest mental health and behavior science platform.
Here are some insights:
n Get in shape with solitude.
Set aside specific times each day to unplug from digital devices. Pause and observe your surroundings. Engage in activities that do not involve screens.
Spend time with yourself doing things you enjoy. Foster a deeper connection with yourself and your environment.
“Being alone does not have to mean being lonely,” Marone stated.
“Many people fear being alone because it is when daunting thoughts or suppressed anxieties surface. Masking them perpetuates a feeling of inner disconnect.”
Marone likewise stressed that while it may feel uncomfortable to get rid of diversions, the brain will continue to use them as opportunities to clear mental clutter unless
proactively managed.
n Build trust within yourself. Believe in your ability to handle your experiences, thoughts and emotions, without the need for constant external validation or distraction. Listen to your intuition. Honor your commitments and promises to yourself. Have faith in your capacity to meet your own needs.
Acknowledge and remind yourself of past accomplishments. Reinforce positive self-image.
“Accessing your grit and patience is a tricky balance, but it is essential for growth and development,” she explained. “Embrace the discomfort as a sign of progress and trust in your ability to adapt and overcome.” Maron noted that this journey is much like caring for a garden, wherein planting seeds of self-awareness allows one to create a rich inner landscape of authenticity.
“Each moment of solitude, each instance of resisting constant distraction nurtures these seeds, fostering inner growth,” she reiterated.
“Through mindful nurturing and compassionate self-care, you gradually accumulate a reservoir of self-trust—a belief in your capacity to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and resilience,” she added. “By embracing this process and committing to your growth, you lay the foundation for a more grounded, fulfilling existence.”
B5
Editor: Gerard S. Ramos
PHOTO BY IAN STAUFFER ON UNSPLASH
SMX Convention Center Clark receives accolades at DOT Region 3 Tres Awards
IN the heart of Clark Freeport Zone, where business meets leisure and history blends seamlessly with modernity, SMX Convention Center Clark continues to shine as one of the country’s premier event venues. The convention center recently earned multiple accolades at the Department of Tourism Region 3’s Tourism Recognition for Enterprises and Stakeholders (TRES) Awards, reaffirming its role in shaping Central Luzon’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) landscape.
Recognized for its premium facilities, exceptional service, and commitment to excellence, SMX Convention Center Clark secured top honors in key categories: Indoor MICE Event Venue (Grand Winner), MICE Exhibition Venue (Grand Winner), and MICE Meeting Room (2nd Runner-Up). These awards not only recognize its commitment to excellence but also reinforce New Clark City’s emergence as a top-tier destination for significant events in the country.
“As the country’s largest convention
center operator, we are honored to receive this recognition, which reflects not just the efforts of SMX Convention Center Clark but also the strong collaboration between all MICE stakeholders in the region. These partnerships are essential in positioning the Philippines as a globally competitive destination for business events and tourism” said Mike Albaña, Vice President – General Manager of SMX Convention Center. Strategically located just 15 minutes from Clark International Airport, SMX
Clark offers unparalleled convenience for both local and international attendees.
The venue is directly connected to Park Inn by Radisson Clark, allowing guests seamless access between the hotel and the convention center. Right across the property, SM City Clark provides an array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, enhancing the overall event experience.
Designed to accommodate a diverse range of events, SMX Clark features versatile spaces tailored for large-scale exhibitions, corporate conferences, and grand private celebrations. Its strong network of event suppliers ensures smooth execution, making it a trusted venue for major industry gatherings.
Further solidifying its reputation as a leading MICE hub, SMX Clark has hosted MICECON 2024, the country’s flagship conference for MICE industry, as well as the PhilConstruct expo, the Philippines’ largest construction trade show, which has returned to the venue for consecutive years.
Beyond business and trade, SMX Clark is also a stage for cultural and lifestyle events. The venue welcomed the Tactical, Survival,
Residential Condo Development Set to Elevate Bacolod Living in Saludad Township
LIVING in a condominium has become popular among Filipinos over the years, especially in highly urbanized cities where young professionals and families look for a starter home suitable for their budget and lifestyle. Condominiums offer affordability, convenience, and security to residents and some even have additional benefits that are just too good to pass up.
In Bacolod City, a new medium-rise condominium community will soon rise within PHINMA Properties’ master-planned township of Saludad. To be designed by esteemed architectural firm, Royal Pineda+ Architecture·Design, the soon-to-be launched residential project will blend practical luxury, wellness and quality, with over half of its area devoted to green open spaces. The master-planned township of Saludad offers a mix of residential and commercial spaces, with areas dedicated to green spaces and highlights of modern living in the laidback city of Bacolod. Looking for more reasons to consider condo living in Bacolod? Here are a few reasons that might convince you. This residential condominium is designed to thrive within Saludad’s mixed-use ecosystem, offering residents the unique advantage of integrated living. Within the township, residents will have easy access to vibrant commercial spaces, retail districts, educational institutions, and hospitality hubs. This synergy not only fosters convenience and connectivity but also builds a community-driven environment where home, work, and leisure coexist seamlessly.
architecture focusing on heritage and design philosophy of practical luxury, this development, being part of Saludad, makes it a prime location for residents to enjoy everything and anything within their reach
“Township living allows us to create a holistic community where the rising middle-income segment can access opportunities for growth and experience a wellrounded lifestyle,” said Raphael B. Felix, PHINMA Properties
President and CEO. “It’s a conscious decision to make Saludad accessible to this market because we believe in empowering Filipinos with homes they can be proud of, while being part of a dynamic and thriving community.”
Residents from the upcoming medium-rise condominium development can enjoy a morning stroll and access several amenities, all within the area. With its
BINGOPLUS , the country’s most comprehensive digital entertainment platform, was recognized as the “Best Reliability in Online Gaming” during the Asia Gaming Awards 2025 held at Shangri-La the Fort, in Taguig City on March 18, 2025. The Asia Gaming Awards is part of the annual threeday ASEAN Gaming Summit. It is a special gathering that commemorates and celebrates the gaming industry,
The condominium development will embrace Saludad’s dedication to sustainability with green open spaces, eco-conscious design elements, and thoughtfully planned communal areas that promote wellness and harmony with nature. These features are complemented
both land-based and online. Guests, media partners, and business associates from different corners of the world converged together, sharing their insights about the growth and modernization of different platforms regarding digitalization and regulation.
Rafael Jasper Vicencio, President of AB Leisure Exponent, Inc. shared how digitalization became a great asset in reaching more audiences, especially during the pandemic. Through this transition, it allowed them to bring more excitement and help improve the lives of the people. In addition, Vicencio said that BingoPlus established its roots as a trusted online gaming platform that provides assurance to its players.
“BingoPlus has established itself as a leading digital entertainment platform that players can trust. It can be attested to as fair and authentic, and it takes pride in its service,” he said. The company was built on fairness and authenticity that garnered partnerships with respected organizations, making BingoPlus a reliable organization in the industry.
“As BingoPlus is poised for continued growth, expands its offerings, forges partnerships with esteemed organizations, and achieves new milestones, it steadily remains
by the township’s walkable environment, fostering a balanced and active lifestyle while keeping residents connected to the broader community.
This new project is more than just a residence—it is an invitation to be part of Saludad’s growing legacy, where every detail is designed to ensure progress while celebrating the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Bacolod.
As Bacolod continues its upward trajectory in real estate and economic development, PHINMA Properties is proud to contribute to this growth through Saludad. By making township living accessible to the middle-income market, the company upholds its mission to create communities that foster dignity, pride, and belonging.
The relaxed life of the province meets the hustle and bustle of the metro. Dynamic living within the township means access to essentials and favorite stores, giving residents convenience just a walk away from their homes to relax and unwind after a busy day.
“It has always been our mission at PHINMA Properties to make lives better and part of this is providing the rising middle-class Filipino with homes that they aspire for,” said Felix.
“Particularly, we want to embody the spirit of Aton Ini (This is Ours) where residents can thrive and take pride in the community they live in. Bacolod has so much potential, and we aim to be part of its further growth through Saludad.”
Stay tuned for the official launch of this exciting residential condo development and learn how you can create life’s most meaningful moments in the heart of Bacolod’s progress. Visit phinmaproperties.com/saludadtownship for more updates.
reliable and strong in the gaming industry,” he added.
Later that day, BingoPlus, as one of the major sponsors for the ASEAN Gaming Summit, entertained the guests with an intermission number from BingGirls while they savored their delicious meal. Guests were also gifted with BingoPlus merchandise that they took home as souvenirs to remember a memorable convocation.
Moreover, BingoPlus was awarded “Best Reliability in Online Gaming” because of its outstanding optimal data protection, operational compliance, responsible promotional practices, track record, and player experience.
Among those who were commended during the awarding ceremony was PAGCOR’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Alejandro H. Tengco, who received a special honorary award. He closed the night by emphasizing that these awards should serve as an inspiration and motivation. It should be a reminder to aim and achieve more milestones that will help provide a better destination and service to the people.
BingoPlus is thankful for the recognition that the Asia Gaming Awards bestowed. It has strengthened the brand’s leading status in the gaming industry even further and motivated the brand to stay true to its mission. BingoPlus assures that it will continue to comply with the regulations and become even more reliable while finding new ways to improve its services through digitalization.
and Arms Expo, a premier showcase for defense, survival, and outdoor gear, as well as the City Clark Sneaker Expo 2, drawing sneaker enthusiasts and collectors from all over the region. Meanwhile, the Wedding Destination Pampanga Year 16 brought together top
wedding suppliers in the region. These milestones highlight SMX Clark’s versatility and growing influence in shaping Central Luzon’s event landscape, cementing its status as the region’s go-to venue for industrydefining gatherings.
Golden Icons CSR Initiative Successfully Completed
IN a heartfelt commitment to give back to the community, Asia’s Golden Icons Awards and Events Inc. (Golden Icons) successfully concluded the distribution of wheelchairs and essential medical supplies as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, “Mobility for Dignity” and the CSR Initiative at Pagamutan ng Dasmariñas, where hygiene kits, medical supplies, and equipment were donated.
On March 27, 2025, Golden Icons hosted a significant event in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross and the Rotary Club of Manila 101, successfully distributing wheelchairs to individuals. The “Mobility for Dignity” initiative aims to provide essential mobility solutions to those in need, significantly enhancing their quality of life and fostering greater independence.
The event attracted distinguished guests, including Dr. Ronnel Ybanez, Founder and Chairman of Golden Icons; Majella Tumangan-Villaroman, Executive Director of the Rotary Club of Manila 101; Cris Querubin of the Wheelchair Foundation; and members of the Philippine Red Cross, including Adelina B. Castillo, administrator of the Cavite Chapter Organization, and Gary C. Santos, Branch Head PRC Cavite Chapter - Dasmariñas Branch.
The beneficiaries of this initiative primarily hailed from Cavite City, emphasizing Golden Icons’ dedication to uplifting local communities and bringing hope to those who require assistance.
During the ceremony, beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude as they received their new wheelchairs, which symbolize not just mobility but also dignity and independence.
“We believe that everyone deserves the right to move freely and with dignity,” stated Dr. Ybanez. “This initiative reflects our commitment to giving back, and we are honored to partner with the Philippine Red Cross and Rotary Club 101 to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our fellow citizens.”
Dr. Ybanez expressed his heartfelt thanks to all those who made the initiative possible, notably Agnes Pasaporte Miranda, past president of the Rotary
Club of Manila 101, and Tumangan Villaroman, the Executive Director of the Rotary Club of Manila 101. “Your unwavering dedication and support have been instrumental in bringing this initiative to life,” he emphasized.
In acknowledging the contributions of the Philippine Red Cross, Dr. Ybanez recognized their dedicated CEO Richard Gordon, and Secretary General Dr. Gwendolyn Pang, who conveyed inspiring messages through Castillo. A special thank you was extended to The Chair Love and Wheelchair Foundation for their generous support in facilitating this initiative.
A special shoutout was given to Frndly Media for capturing the joy of these meaningful events. “The media plays an essential role in spreading awareness, and we are grateful for their support,” Dr. Ybanez remarked. On March 28, 2025, Golden Icons proudly continued their CSR efforts with a second event at Pagamutan ng Dasmariñas. During this event, the organization distributed four nebulizers, 96 packs of paracetamol, 320 packs of trimetadizine, and 50 hygiene kits within the hospital. This support aims to enhance the healthcare services available to the community, ensuring that patients receive the necessary medical care and support. Dr. Ybanez expressed his gratitude to those who supported the advocacy, particularly Camille CamposCagingin, Chief of Hospital at Pagamutan ng Dasmariñas, and Dasmariñas City Mayor Jenny Barzaga for their instrumental role in making this initiative a reality. Dr. Ybanez would like to extend his profound gratitude to Edgard Cabangon whose unwavering support for his advocacy has been invaluable. Cabangon’s dedication and commitment to uplifting communities resonate deeply with the mission of Golden Icons, and his contributions have significantly enhanced the impact of the organization’s initiatives.
Dr. Ybanez also recognized the esteemed members of the executive board who have played crucial roles in guiding and supporting this initiative: Former Senator Gringo Honasan II; Dr. Sergio Ortis-Luis, Jr., President, Employers Confederation of the Philippines; Consult Enunina Mangio, President, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Tereso Panga, Director General, Philippine Economic Zone Authority; Assistant Minority Leader and OFW Party List Rep. Marissa Del Mar Magsino; Gana Atienza, Avisado Law Offices and Asia’s Influential Leaders Awards Legal Counsel and Undersecretary Vidal D. Villanueva III, Asia’s Influential Leader Awards Vice Chairman and Deputy Director General for Operations at TESDA. To stay connected with our journey and follow the progress of our initiatives, please visit our Golden Icons Facebook Page. We encourage everyone to mark their calendars for upcoming donation events and stay tuned for further initiatives hosted by Golden Icons.
JASPER Vicencio receives Best Reliability in Online Gaming award
MINDANAO’S PROPERTY SECTOR CONTINUES TO EXPERIENCE A BOOM
By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes @brownindio
THE residential and commercial sectors in Mindanao, particularly Davao City, are experiencing a boom according to the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA).
“Mindanao’s real estate market is expanding at an extraordinary pace, driven by strategic infrastructure developments, increasing business activity, and a growing population. Investors and home buyers alike are recognizing the immense opportunities here,” explained Chairperson Leo Tereso A. Magno in a recent forum.
According to MinDA data, Davao City occupancy hits 95 to 100 percent, with high-end properties attracting outside buyers.
“Davao is becoming a prime real estate destination, not just for locals but also for investors from across the country and abroad. The city’s stable economy, security, and business-friendly environment make it an attractive choice,” he added.
Condominium sales and township developments are experiencing a steady rise with an annual completion rate of approximately 3,400 condominium units, according to Colliers Philippines.
Alsons Dev expands its portfolio
THE Alcantara family-led Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) expressed optimism for 2025 by allotting P600 million in capital expenditure (CAPEX), marking
an estimated 80 percent increase from 2024. This investment reinforces our commitment to growth as we expand our residential and commercial portfolio through ongoing and upcoming developments,” told Eric D. de la Costa, vice president and general manager, Alsons Dev in an email interview with the BusinessMirror
Jolla Angelica A. Soriaga, assistant vice president for business development and operations, Alsons Dev, said the company recently launched the Mahogany South and the Northtown Residences 5 Mahogany South is a master-planned housing development in southern Davao City with expertly built homes, expansive green spaces, and family-friendly amenities ideal for starter families, young professionals, and investors. Mahogany South is Alsons Dev’s first residential development in the southern part of the city and the third project under the Nurtura brand for the middle market, a 13-hectare master-planned development.
For those seeking premier open lots, Northtown Residences 5, launching in Q2 of 2025, Soriaga said it presents an exciting expansion of the township development in Buhangin, Davao City.
Looking ahead, she said expansion plans for both Mahogany South and Northtown Residences are scheduled for 2026, alongside a new residential project within Avia Estate, reinforcing Alsons Dev’s commitment to delivering high-quality communities across Southern Mindanao.
“We are actively exploring key and emerging urban centers across Mindanao for strategic land acquisitions, while also setting our sights on potential opportunities in the Visayas as part of our development plans,” said Soriaga.
Long-term expansion plans.
“AT Alsons Dev, our goal has always been to create communities that provide homeowners with the foundation to build their future, forge lasting memories, and truly thrive. With Mahogany South, we are expanding our reach to provide quality homes in a location that offers the best of both worlds— serenity and accessibility,” said Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel Rene A. Dominguez.
Allure of Central Luzon leisure
First of two parts
WE are seeing a relentless expansion of foreign hospitality brands in the Philippines. The travel and tourism sector has tremendous potential given the projected rise in arrivals and modernization of airports across the country. Definitely, there’s more to explore in the Philippines which should give foreign and domestic travelers alike more than 7,600 reasons to love the Philippines.
The leisure landscape across Asia is evolving, with developers and other property stakeholders becoming more agile in responding to tourists’ evolving preferences. Philippine-based developers are quick to adjust to continued dynamism in the Philippine hospitality sector.
A Colliers Asia Pacific report published in Q2 2024 noted that global food and beverage (F&B) brands, including some high-profile names in the fast food and coffee chain segments, continue to secure space for their flagship stores. F&B continues to remain a key demand in retail leasing, with coffee shops (both home-grown and international brands) completing a wave of new openings across large Asian cities. Casual dining and bars also exhibited strong demand as did chef-driven F&B formats in major hotels across the region.
The same Colliers report noted that across Asia pacific the retail market experienced signs of recovery, driven by the recovery in tourist inflows. Tourist-oriented retailers in the region are in robust expansion mode and showed strong interest in securing their presence on high streets at prime locations. This is particularly true for Clark, with international arrivals fueled by direct flights to and from Taiwan, Qatar, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan and Thailand. In our view, Clark will attract more international and domestic tourists given the modernization and expansion of the Clark International Airport. Its current annual capacity is 8 million from 4 million prior to its modernization. With local and foreign retailers taking advantage of Clark and its environs’ growing tourist arrivals, we only see a more dynamic retail landscape in the Central Luzon region in the years to come.
MICE: a game-changing sub-segment
THE Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) subsegment also continues to thrive. We are optimistic that Clark is primed for more international events and in our view, the mounting of more global events should benefit major hospitality players in the freeport including the SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., Filinvest Hospitality, and Hann Philippines, which developed the first fully-integrated resort in Central Luzon.
The return of association and industry group conferences should underpin MICE demand beyond 2025. Colliers believes that even with the popularity of platforms such as Zoom and MS Teams, nothing replaces the quality of interaction and networking during in-person conferences.
In the Philippines, meanwhile, more hotel keys are likely to open in the next three years, with Metro Manila and Metro Clark likely to see the opening of new foreign accommodation facilities and branded residences in the near to medium term. This is indicative of gargantuan opportunities across the country especially in Clark, which is being positioned as a prime MICE destination in the region.
Colliers believes that aside from major MICE events, the continued expansion of manufacturing companies within Clark should result in a greater demand for hotels and branded residences especially from foreign workers employed by industrial locators within the Clark freeport.
Overall, MICE events in the region should be complemented by the popularity of golf communities. Here we see the Filinvest Hospitality and the Hann Group (with its planned golf course in the New Clark City) as among the firms taking advantage of thriving popularity of golf in the region.
PHL hospitality and fostering of inclusive economic growth
COLLIERS believes that public-private partnerships should not just focus on infrastructure development. Greater emphasis should also be provided in propping up the tourism sector and in making sure that it benefits all stakeholders—from hotel owners and operators to retailers of souvenir items. Over the past few years, we have seen the expansion and modernization of airports in Clark, and there will be more in the pipeline—New Manila International Airport in Bulacan also in Central Luzon and the rehabilitation and expansion of the existing NAIA—complementing Central Luzon airports’ operations.
Further growth of Philippine tourism is a win-win for developers and property investors and a major beneficiary of this property investment upside is Central Luzon. The region is well-positioned to capture high-value investments in manufacturing, hospitality, and outsourcing segments which should further solidify Central Luzon’s stature as the Philippines’ key economic corridor.
To be continued.
An emerging BPO hub
PREMIER residential and agroindustrial developer Damosa Land continues to boost its position as an emerging IT-BPO hub with the entry of CloudStaff, into Damosa IT Park—the first PEZA-accredited IT park in Southern Mindanao.
“CloudStaff’s entry into Damosa IT Park reinforces our vision of making Davao one of the top outsourcing hubs in the country. More than just providing office spaces, we are
enabling companies to operate in an environment that supports business growth, promotes employee well-being, and contributes to the city’s economic expansion,” said Ricardo “Cary” Lagdameo, President of Damosa Land in a press statement.
Miki Carbonel, global chief recruitment officer for Cloudstaff, said Cloudstaff decided to locate in Damosa IT Park because it offers an opportunity to tap the huge tal -
WATER closets may have a standard look, but the “one size fits all” concept may not always apply especially when the varying personal requirements of customers are carefully considered. For example, households with children may need toilets that are compact in size and suitable for their stature. Likewise, households with elderly might require smart toilets with automatic lid opening and closing, automatic flushing, and even night light to ensure their safety and convenience in the bathroom. With the different needs of customers in mind, INAX, the leading sanitary brand in Japan, suggests water closets that might be ideal for your own homes:
Smart toilet for the modern bathroom INAX’s smart toilets are the answer to your modern bathroom aesthetic. They offer many outstanding features that include automatic flushing, cleaning and deodorizing that are ideal for the elderly and children. These smart toilets are also equipped with effective anti-fouling Aqua Ceramic technology with anti-splash foam, cushion, Plasmacluster technology to kill bacteria in the bowl, deodorizing air shield, and an integrated electric pump for a powerful flush that washes away all dirt. For convenience and safety, these water
ent pool of Davao, which continues to attract global outsourcing firms looking for highly skilled professionals.
“We chose Davao as our 14th site in the Philippines because of its rich pool of highly skilled talent, its growing infrastructure, and the strong support from the local community. Davao’s commitment to education, workforce development, and its strategic location in Mindanao make it the ideal place for Cloudstaff to continue its growth,” expressed Carbonel.
Damosa IT Park, with its PEZA accreditation, energy-efficient office spaces, and seamless connectivity, is designed to support the needs of global IT-BPO firms. The integration of modern workspaces, green areas, and accessibility to key commercial and residential hubs ensures that businesses operating in the park can benefit from both operational efficiency and employee well-being.
closets feature heated seats, night light and automatic lid opening and closing.
If smart toilets are what you’re looking for, check out the INAX SARAS, Satis G and Satis S.
Safety first for children’s toilet HOUSEHOLDS with children might need a water closet that’s comfortable and safe for their kids. So consider toilets with a height of 150 to 250mm from floor to seat, a 200-350mm width and 450 to 600mm depth. These ideal size range are compact in size, making the toilet suitable for your child’s size.
Maximize space with one-piece toilet FOR those with a spacious toilet area, onepiece INAX toilets might fit right in. They are usually sized 720-780mm in length, 370-480mm in width, and 630-700mm in height with a 180-300mm discharge center, making them larger than twopiece toilets. Their seats and water tanks are usually connected to form a unified block. This type of design minimizes the formation of plaque in the gaps, making cleaning the toilet easier and faster. On top of these features, INAX onepiece toilets offer innovations such as the Aqua Ceramic enamel to maintain a long-lasting shiny surface, without
residue or dirt after a period of use. Its flushing technologies include the Powerful Vortex or powerful siphon flushing with two levels of large or small flushing to save water. These innovations can be found in the S100, S200, S400 and S600 one-piece toilets.
Convenience in two-piece toilets FOR those looking for convenience in installation, INAX two-piece toilets are the answer. Normally sized 720 to 780mm in length, 360 to 440mm in width, and 720 to 800mm in height, and feature a 300mm escape distance, each part of the twopiece toilet can easily be replaced when damaged without the need to replace the entire toilet.
The INAX two-piece toilet such as AC-602VN, AC-514VAN and AC-832VN, use Aqua Ceramic enamel technology that is shiny with a dirt-resistance surface. It also has a soft-closing lid to avoid loud noises when opening and closing. Not only that, these INAX two-piece toilets use Powerful Vortex flushing technology, a powerful siphon flushing system that quickly washes away all stains. For more updates on INAX, visit www. inax.com.ph and follow @INAXPhilippines on Facebook and @inax.philippines on Instagram.
SARAS Auto open smart toilet for your modern bathrooms. MAXIMIZE space with S200 one-piece toilet.
MAHOGANY South bungalow LOFT model
THE Cloudstaff team, joined by the Damosa Land team and guests, is in high spirits as they celebrate the opening of the KPO company’s 21st site in the world, located in Damosa IT Park. HOME
Chargers draw first blood vs Flying Titans
Serdenia
JUNIOR World Championshipsbound Charles Serdenia and Shinichi Suzuki carded 76s to set the pace in the boys’ 15-18 division of the 2025 International Container Terminal Services Inc. Eagle Ridge Junior Philippine Golf Tour Championship on Tuesday in General Trias, Cavite. Serdenia, fresh off a win at a special Junior World Qualifier in Splendido Taal, surged with a 37 on the front nine but stumbled with three bogeys in the final six holes as Suzuki, who secured his San Diego berth earlier at The Country Club, who turned in steady nines of 38-38 to draw level atop the leaderboard in the 54-hole tournament.
They lead Enzo Cham by five strokes.
“My round was okay, but my putting was really off. The course was super difficult and it was extremely hot—we had to rehydrate every three holes,” the 16-year-old Serdenia in Filipino said.
“Just trust yourself and say a prayer before every shot,” he added when asked how he was handling the challenges.
Despite sharing the lead, Suzuki, also 16, admitted he wasn’t satisfied with his round.
“The greens were quite firm and tough to hold, so it took me a while to adjust to the conditions. I struggled hitting greens in regulation and missed several up-and-down chances and birdie opportunities,” said Suzuki.
C ham wavered with an 81, Alonso Espartero fumbled with an 82, while Rafael Mañaol and Zach Villaroman posted identical 83s.
In the 36-hole boys’ 7-10 bracket, Halo Pangilinan toughed it out in the blazing heat to card an 85, edging ahead of Isonn Angheng and Zach Guico, who matched 87s, by two shots.
“I came here to play my best but it’s very challenging,” said the nine-year-old Pangilinan, aiming to improve to an 82 in the final round.
Z oji Edoc had a 90 and will need a strong comeback in the last round to climb back to contention in the opening leg of the 15-stage nationwide series organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc.
Meanwhile, Anvaya Cove’s Mavis Espedido impressed in the girls’ 7-10 division, firing a 76 under testing conditions to seize a four-shot lead over Venus delos Santos, who shot an 80.
“The course is very hard. I had to manage it carefully and play smart on many holes,” said Espedido, who hopes to go under par in the final round. “I want to make my parents proud.” Sanctioned this year by the World Amateur Golf Ranking, the tournament offers more than just medals—every swing is a step toward global ranking points.
AT two sets down and their hopes for the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference bronze medal dimming under the Araneta Coliseum lights, the Akari Chargers looked like a team on the brink.
The Choco Mucho Flying Titans had them cornered—strong hits, relentless blocks, and the ever-lethal Sisi Rondina soaring over the net.
But under that intense pressure, the Chargers rediscovered their spark, mounting a spirited comeback to secure a 24-26, 21-25, 25-15, 25-18, 15-11 victory at the start of their bestof-three series for third place, thrilling a huge crowd on Tuesday. And at the heart of it was a gem of a libero in Justine Jazareno.
W ith the Flying Titans pressing hard, Rondina launched rocket after rocket toward Akari’s side. Most liberos would’ve crumbled under that barrage.
Not Jazareno.
S he danced on the floor like it was instinct, not effort—diving, sliding, anticipating and absorbing every blow. Twenty-nine excellent digs, most of them off what should’ve been kill shots.
Her efficiency? A stunning 60 percent, against one of the best offensive players in the league.
“Sinabi lang namin sa isa’t isa na kapitan natin ’yung Set 3. Magteturnaround to pag nakuha natin ’yun,” she said after the match and earning the game’s top honors.
In S et 3, Akari stormed out with a different look—no longer rattled, but roaring. The Chargers blitzed the Flying Titans by 10 points, riding on the defensive energy Jazareno had sparked.
S et 4? Same story. Set 5? Even better.
B8 Wednesday april 9, 2025
mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph
Editor: Jun Lomibao
Lady Bulldogs look to regain rhythm against Lady Warriors
LT hough Choco Mucho tied it three times, the Chargers never blinked. Every shaky serve, every wild swing from their rivals added fuel to Akari’s fire. And when the moment came—1411, match point, and chaos unfolding from a scrambled play—it was Grethcel Soltones who dropped the ball just right. But it was Jazareno’s defense that made that moment possible.
On the stat sheet, Eli Soyud sizzled with 24 points. Lacsina bounced back with 20. Soltones chipped in 15.
But the unsung star and the backbone? It was Jazareno, who played not just for the win, but for her team, her family, and her baby, Austin. We needed this win to prove ourselves to those who believe in us,”
said Jazareno, who is on the Alas Pilipinas national team tryouts wish list.
Akari had 60 attacks againsy 45 by Choco Mucho, and served eight aces against its rival’s five, but the Flying Titans led in blocks, 15-9.
Rondina paced Choco Mucho with 18 points, next to Royse Tubino’s topscoring 19 markers while Isa Molde contributed 10 points.
SMB, Meralco don throwback jerseys for PBA treat
By Josef T. Ramos
THE Philippine Basketball Association evokes nostalgia as San Miguel Beer and Meralco don retro jerseys on Wednesday at the historic Rizal Memorial Coliseum as part of the league’s celebration of its golden 50th year.
T he Beermen and Bolts face off at 7:30 p.m. after the Magnolia-Converge match at 5 p.m.
Defending Philippine Cup champion Meralco looks to extend its run after going 2-0 with victories over Converge, 91-89, and Terrafirma, 118-80.
“This is a very prestigious game, and it’s an opportunity for us as we are up
against the team that beat us in the last Philippine Cup finals,” SMB coach Leo Austria said, referring to Meralco’s firstever franchise win. The Beermen bowed to the Bolts in six games.
A fter an early exit from the Commissioner’s Cup, San Miguel Beer started this conference with a 98-89 win over NLEX last Saturday behind CJ Perez’s 26 points.
“ We just have to continue working hard especially against Meralco. We expected them to play tough,” Austria added.
Trillo said the Bolts are honored to play on the exact 50th anniversary date—April 9.
We are excited, and we are
Caidic, Andy Jao, Quinito Henson, Nelson Beltran and Ding Marcelo. C redit the empanada bounty to Quinito, who requested the Cebu-based Fernandez for the delicacy when he finally comes to Manila for the final voting of “the greatest.” The generous guy that he has always been, El Presidente made sure everyone would each receive a box, including Deputy Commissioner Eric Castro. The empanadas are from my brother-in-law’s bakeshop business,” said Fernandez, who was also a judge in the Selection Committee (he was in Zoom mode during the first
honored that we are playing San Miguel Beer as part of our 50th year,” Trillo said. “Our ball clubs have rich traditions and when we play each other there is a high respect. After the last Philippine Cup, we know they will prepare for major comeback.”
“They maybe the oldest team but they also have the best experience.”
Meanwhile, Magnolia eyes a 2-0 start when it meets Converge (0-1).
The Hotshots are coming off a 106-84 win over Blackwater behind Zav Lucero’s 21 points and seven rebounds.
T he FiberXers, on the other hand, look to bounce back from the openinggame loss to Meralco.
Each fan at Wednesday’s games at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum will receive a commemorative PBA at 50 T-Shirt.
Tickets will be sold at special prices, with lower box seats priced at P50 pesos P30 pesos for general admission seats.
National University looks to get back on track when it takes on cellar-dwelling University of the East today (Wednesday) as the defending champions seek to boost their bid for a twice-tobeat advantage in the Final Four of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament at the Philsports Arena in Pasig. The Lady Bulldogs have already matched their last season’s loss total after dropping two of the last three matches.
Although NU remains on top of the standings, reigning MVP Bella Belen stresses the need for her squad to play with a sense of urgency in the 1 p.m. match.
The Lady Warriors have yet to log a win in 11 matches, and the Lady Bulldogs are not willing to be their first victims.
We shouldn’t wait for the game to be handed to us. We have to want it, and we have to take it,” Belen said after NU dropped a 23-25, 25-15, 26-28, 22-25 decision to Adamson University last Sunday.
“It’s also an opportunity for us to prove that just because we’re coming
off a loss doesn’t mean we’re no longer capable of winning.”
“ We need to work hard because it definitely won’t be easy against UE. They may be winless, but they’ve given a hard time to many teams.”
Alyssa Solomon, who was sorely missed in the Lady Bulldogs’ defeat against the Lady Falcons, due to a mild ankle sprain, remains doubtful for NU.
Far Eastern University plays Ateneo at 3 p.m.
With a 7-4 record, the Lady Tamaraws are tied for third with the University of Santo Tomas, giving them a shot at securing a twice-to-beat berth in the Final Four.
FEU trails No. 2 De La Salle (8-3) by just a game and coach Tina Salak remains confident of the Lady Tamaraws’ chances of a better ranking after the eliminations.
We’re still focused on our goal, one game at a time. We stay locked in on the game plan because every team is capable of winning. Everyone’s improving in the second round, and there have been big adjustments,” Salak said. We also can’t afford to get complacent with our current standing because we might lose it. We need to hold on to every game. We need to win every game. We have to work hard on all our skills, and also study the videos we need to watch and learn from.”
two deliberations). And to sweeten the pot upon his arrival, he brought the famed Cebu lechon to add to our lunch fare that eventful day.
I cite the empanada story for my take-off as I strongly feel that my inclusion in the jury (thanks again, Commissioner Willie), had afforded me the chance to have intimate chats again with PBA legends Fernandez, 1979 MVP Co and 1990 MVP Caidic, whom I have had the distinct privilege to cover since the league’s birth on April 9, 1975, before an estimated crowd of 18,000 at the Araneta Coliseum.
W hat are they now?
W hat do they do for a living?
W hat’s life after basketball?
“I ’m in the Solar biz now,” said Fernandez. “Commercial and industrial clients. Just last year, we’ve done eight SM malls and four more are coming up.”
His two Cebu-based companies are RKF Solar Development Corporation and RKF Infra Ventures Inc.
“I couldn’t ask for more,” said the 6-foot-4 Fernandez, also a former commissioner of the Philippine Sports Commission. “Life’s been kind, thank God.”
T he 6-foot-1 Atoy Co, who looks young at 73 “because I do gym work regularly,” now owns a three-hectare farm
met by a nine-point spurt from Ildefonso, Serrano and homegrown Redel Fabro that sent many of the local crowd to the exits, 54-78, with three minutes and 58 seconds left. Rizal got 20 points from Eric Camson, and 17 points from Alwyn Alday, while Marco Balagtas scored 11.
planted mainly to pineapple in Calauan, Laguna.
“I am now a full-fledged farmer,” said Co, who also maintains a chicken poultry in the same area. “I’ll send your fill of pineapples after harvest time.”
The 6-foot-2 Caidic, 62, is still into basketball, mind you.
“I k eep busy playing in PBA Legends games around the country,” said Caidic,
GRETHCEL SOLTONES, Ivy Lacsina and Justine Jazareno whoop it up as Akari survives a tough five-setter against Choco Mucho.
BELLA BELEN and the Lady Bulldogs eye their 10th win in 12 matches.
