Mon Tuesday gave assurances there will still be due process in the forfeiture of properties used for illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) operations.
Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin made the remark in an interview with reporters on Tuesday amid ongoing efforts in the Senate to fast-track the
government seizure of POGO properties.
“I’ve read that in the newspapers. I know that it is the Senate that will look into it, but we are already doing everything to hasten the process,” Bersamin said.
“Except that we have to give due process to whoever appears to be the holder of those assets. We cannot just grab [the properties], but they already have in place laws of regulations about forfeiture,” he added.
During the weekend, Senator Sherwin T. Gatchalian said the
proposed Anti-POGO Act will allow the government to take over the facilities used for illegal online gambling activity.
Bersamin, however, noted that there are existing laws that will allow the government to seize the POGO assets.
“There are already laws that will forfeit [such properties], but the forfeiture process is very slow. It comes usually at the end of the proceedings,” he said.
Some of the laws that allow forfeiture of properties in favor of the state are Republic Act No.
1379 and Republic Act No.
Bersamin said the proposed new law from the Senate may help fast-track the forfeiture process of the said POGO properties.
Last Sunday, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) revoked the license of the remaining POGO and Internet Gaming Licensee nationwide in line with the instruction of President Ferdinand Marcos to ban the said activities before the end of the year.
BSP SEEN TO CUT RRR
’25 ALONG WITH POLICY RATES
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
APART from reducing policy rates by 100 basis points next year, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) could also reduce the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) by mid-2025, according to Nomura.
In its Global Macroeconomic Outlook, Nomura said the BSP will continue its easing cycle to reduce policy rates to a neutral rate of 5 percent by May 2025. The think tank also said this will be in tandem with a 200-basis-point reduction in RRR which is expected to improve the BSP’s transmission policy.
“We expect growth to gradually improve in 2025 but still undershoot official targets. The economy is vulnerable to Trump policies but public investment and election-related spending will support domestic demand,” Nomura said.
“Because of our forecast for inflation to stay at the lower end of BSP’s target, we expect BSP to deliver an additional 100 bp of cuts in this cycle successively, taking the policy rates to BSP’s estimate of neutral by May. We also pencil in another 200 bp RRR reduction by mid-2025, which should help to improve policy transmission further,” it added.
THE national government drew in over P9 billion in investment approvals after the opening of 27 new economic zones, according to the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza).
In a presentation, Peza Director General Tereso O. Panga told reporters the Marcos administration’s new ecozones saw committed investments reach P9.175 billion in the first two years of the Marcos administration.
A total of 16 economic zones were created, leading to
commitments of P5.637 billion this year. This is higher than the 11 ecozones created with commitments reaching P3.538 billion last year. “So [the investments include] a mix of IT and also manufacturing ecozones,” Panga said. “So [this is] another dimension of our good governance and performance, having sound financial performance, 2024 is the highest by far in the past four years since 2021.”
See “Peza,” A2
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
THE Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has “adequate resources” to finance its obligations and improve benefit packages despite having no subsidies for next year, according to Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto.
“They have adequate reserves and they have a huge surplus, which they can use for 2025. And yet, they will have P250 billion at least of reserve funds,” Recto told reporters on Tuesday.
PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel R. Ledesma Jr. said on Monday night
that PhilHealth’s financial position and “strong and sufficient” to sustain its operations.
“PhilHealth will continue to pay for the health benefits of all Filipinos, with or without government subsidy. It is our goal to finance the best care and benefits available,” Ledesma said.
The choice of the Bicameral Conference Committee, which decided to allocate nothing in budgetary support to PhilHealth, reflects its wisdom and understanding of PhilHealth’s capacity in managing the National Health Insurance Program given its sur
plus funds, Ledesma added.
PHL rice import arrivals may hit record 4.7MMT in 2024
TBSP. . .
Continued from A1
“well within” the BSP’s 2 to 4 percent target.
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE country’s rice import arrivals could reach a recordhigh 4.7 million metric tons (MMT) by yearend, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA).
Data from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) showed that rice shipments from January 1 to December 12 have reached 4.48 MMT.
Citing the National Rice Program’s projection, Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said rice imports could hit 4.7 MMT based on historical trend. This was higher than the DA’s initial forecast of 4.5 MMT.
The ecozones created this year comprised four IT parks and manufacturing ecozones, as well
“If you look at the estimates, the imports could hit as much as 4.7 MMT [...] That’s a recordhigh if one considers the trend of import arrivals, statistically speaking,” De Mesa told reporters on Tuesday, speaking partly in Filipino.
Based on BPI data, 158,988 metric tons (MT) of rice imports entered the country in mid-De -
as two IT centers and two expansions of maufacturing ecozones.
The IT parks and centers are located in Biñan City; Pasig City; Cebu City; Tupi in South Cotabato; Mandurriao in Iloilo City; and Antipolo, Rizal.
cember. The average rice shipment from July to November is around 396,583 MT.
Executive Order (EO) 62, which lowered the rice tariffs to 15 percent, took effect in July.
Of the volume that arrived in the country, BPI data indicated that over 3.43 MMT came from Vietnam. Thailand was the second-largest supplier, accounting for 567,913.22 MT.
The Philippines also imported from other countries, such as Pakistan (244,859.48 MT), Myanmar (199,512.75 MT), and India (22,572.82 MT).
Meanwhile, BPI data noted that the agency approved and issued 9,540 sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances (SPSICs) for the purchase of 9.15 MMT of imported rice.
Rice importers are required to secure an SPSIC from the BPI
The manufacturing-related ecozones are located in Tanza, Cavite; Victoria in Tarlac; General Trias in Cavite; Dasmariñas, Cavite; Lourdes in Tarlac; and Balamban in Cebu.
Pangan stressed the creation
before bringing in foreign rice stocks to ensure that an inbound shipment is safe for human and animal consumption.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently said that the Philippines’s rice imports could breach the 5 MMT mark by yearend.
The international agency adjusted upward its estimate for the country’s imported rice purchases this year to a record-high 5.3 MMT from the previous 5 MMT due to a smaller crop for marketing year (MY) 2024/25.
“Global imports are forecast up with growth for the Philippines, Vietnam, and Nigeria,” the USDA said in its latest report.
The international agency also raised its rice imports forecast for the Philippines in 2025 to 5.4 MMT from its earlier forecast of 5.1 MMT also owing to a smaller crop.
of ecozones was a key driver to spreading economic growth in the country side. He noted that nine of the richest cities or local government units outside Metro Manila have ecozones.
The reduction in policy rates has led to lower lending rates that have fallen by 41 basis points. This suggested that there is an 81.5- percent passthrough that is higher than the 34 percent in 2019 to 2020.
“The availability of these instruments has allowed BSP to resume RRR cuts, the latest one being the 250 bp (basis point) cut to 7 percent effective in late October, with an estimated liquidity injection of more than 1 percent of GDP and coinciding with BSP’s rate cuts, thus helping transmission further,”
Nomura said.
Nomura projects the country’s economic growth to average 6 percent next year, slightly lower than the 6.1 percent it initially expected. In 2024, GDP growth is seen to average 5.6 percent and in 2026, growth will average 6.1 percent.
Further, the rise in commodity prices could be slower at 2.7 percent next year and 3 percent in 2026. These projections are
“In (the) coming months, we pencil in headline inflation at the lower end of BSP’s target, partly due to the impact of lower rice import tariffs on food inflation and a still-negative output gap, allowing BSP to deliver rate cuts and front-run the implementation of Trump’s policies,” the outlook stated.
Earlier, Capital Economics said additional rate cuts to be implemented by the BSP will not be enough to boost the Philippine economy next year as there are expectations of a slower pace of growth for household consumption and remittances.
Capital Economics sees Philippine GDP growing by 5.8 percent in 2025, a projection that is “below consensus.” For 2026, GDP expansion will be faster at 6.5 percent.
The projected growth for 2025 is also below the government’s target of 6 to 8 percent, as per the latest assumptions made by the interagency Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC).
Citing PSA data, Panga said the top 10 richest in terms of per capita GDP were the City of Baguio with a per capita GDP of P420,016, followed by the City of Cagayan de Oro with P343,936 and City of Lapu-Lapu, P313,039.
“We see the same trend in the case of other leading and most progressive cities and municipalities in the country hosting ecozones,” Panga said in his presentation.
DepEd.
Continued from A14
program,” said Escudero.
The Senate leader explained that “the President has the power to augment any item in the budget from savings or unspent items in the budget; this way he need not veto other line items in the GAA (General Appropriations Act) in order to provide the DepEd additional funds.”
There are several unspent items in the (DepEd) budget that
This is followed by the City of Iloilo with a per capita GDP of P306,444; Bataan, P297,930; City of Cebu, P293,426; Laguna, P287,280; City of Mandaue, P274,376; City of Davao, P258,811. The only LGU that did not have an ecozone but was included in the list was Batanes, which had a per capita GDP of P251,955. Cai U. Ordinario
can be used, particularly from the funds allocated for DepEd’s computerization program from 2022 to 2024, Escudero said, citing figures from the submissions of the education department to Congress during the budget hearing.
“Over the last three years beginning in 2022, DepEd has over P36 billion in unused funds from its computerization program.”
In 2022, some P13.068 billion had been allocated to the education department for its computerization program, and
will focus on PhilHealth],” Recto added.
yet about P10.03 billion had remained unobligated. Last year, DepEd only spent 50 percent of its P20.4-billion allocation under the 2023 GAA. Under the current budget, the agency has yet to spend P15.9 billion of its P18.08 billion earmarked for computerization.
“That is a total of P36.13 billion of unspent funds over the past three years, more than thrice the P10 billion that DepEd would like to be restored in its 2025 budget. So there are funds the President can tap,” Escudero said.
PhilHealth has a total of P281 billion in reserve funds and P150 billion in surplus funds as of October 2024. Meanwhile, its investment portfolio reached P489 billion as of November 2024.
“We are deeply aware of the impact healthcare costs have on Filipino families, and we remain dedicated to enhancing our benefits packages and reducing out-ofpocket expenses so that every patient feels the security of their health insurance,” Ledesma said.
Ledesma assured the public that all PhilHealth benefits will continue to be paid and will be improved. “PhilHealth stands with every Filipino in our shared goal of achieving universal health coverage and a healthcare system that you can always trust and rely on.”
Recto said he will leave it to Congress in deciding if they will reduce PhilHealth contributions. However, he favors improving the benefit packages and reducing the out-ofpocket expenses of the patients.
“One thing for sure, next year, I, personally, tututukan ko ang PhilHealth [I
PhilHealth was supposed to receive P74.431 billion in subsidies next year but Senate Committee on Finance Chairperson and Senator Grace Poe said the health insurer should utilize its reserve funds first.
This sparked outrage among the public, including medical groups and government officials, and called on President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to veto the 2025 General Appropriations Act.
Former Finance
Undersecretary Cielo Magno said the 2025 national budget is “propolitician” and “antiFilipino.”
“Ang patuloy na pagsira sa PhilHealth, instead na ayusin ito, ay pumapabor sa interest nila [The continuous destruction of PhilHealth, instead of fixing it, favors politicians’ interests],” Magno said.
The former government official said the Bicam favored increasing the Medical Assistance for Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP), a form of ayuda wherein politicians dole out guarantee letters from MAIFIP funds.
“Kailangan mo pa humingi sa politiko ng tulong bago mo makuha yung serbisyo na dapat nakukuha mo sa gobyerno [They would need to ask for help from politicians before obtaining the services that they should be getting from the government],” Magno added.
Moreover, Social Watch Philippines said the zero subsidies for PhilHealth reflect Bicam’s disregard for the Universal Health Care (UHC) and Sin Tax Laws, as P69.81 billion in unused sin tax funds are earmarked for this purpose.
Recto explained that excise taxes mandated for PhilHealth are not hardearmarked, or a legally binding practice requiring agencies to allocate funds as specified in Congressional legislation, unlike the Coco Levy Fund.
“With regard to the sin tax law and UHC, [it does] not necessarily [violate the law] because Congress can increase or reduce the amount recommended under the National Expenditure Program,” Recto said.
“It’s the prerogative of Congress. It’s not automatically appropriated like what is given to local government units,” he added.
Peza. . .
Editor: Nonnie Pelayo
Think tank cites connection between Pogos, China spying
By Rizal Raoul Reyes @brownindio
NTERNATIONAL think tank Stratbase In -
Istitute recently lauded the government’s ban in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogo), internet gaming licensees (IGL), and other offshore gaming operators.
In a statement released Monday, Stratbase Institute President Victor Andres Manhit said the think tank fully supports the Marcos administration’s strengthened efforts to dismantle these networks, expose the conniving behavior of authorities who prioritize personal gain over national welfare, and hold all complicit individuals accountable. The statement was released a day after the official revocation of the licenses of all remaining Pogos.
“The Stratbase Institute strongly condemns the pervasive harm caused by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators, which have become a national menace undermining the very fabric of our society. Far from contributing to economic progress, Pogos have fostered illicit activities that threaten our sovereignty, disrupt social order, and tarnish the Philippines’ reputation as a trusted investment destination,” Manhit said.
He explained that the Pogo phenomenon, which initially emerged under the guise of economic stimulation, has instead revealed systemic vulnerability in the country. These include from governance failures to susceptibility to transnational crimes like human trafficking, money laundering, and even espionage activities.
“Particularly alarming are the links to Chinese espionage operations, which ex -
ploit Pogo networks to gather intelligence, compromise sensitive infrastructure, and undermine national security. Such activities threaten the Philippines’ sovereignty and its strategic position in the Indo-Pacific region, making the elimination of Pogos a matter of urgent national interest,” he explained.
A recent study by the United States Institute of Peace revealed that Southeast Asia has become a significant hub for transnational criminal networks originating from China.
USIP East Asia and Pacific Programs
Director Jennifer Staats said their Institute has been looking at a range of issues at the nexus of transnational crime, violent conflict, and security in Southeast Asia since 2019.
“We were one of the first organizations to publish on the concerning regional implications of the growing presence of PRC[People’s Republic of China]-origin transnational organized crime networks on the Thailand-Myanmar border...By 2022, we were seeing that the threats stemming from these Chinese-origin transnational organized crime actors were no longer confined to Burma or to the region, but were going global,” Staats explained.
One of the study’s authors, Alvin Camba, identified the four underlying root causes of the Pogo phenomenon in the Philippines.
These include incentives driving various actors to participate, weak data centralization, and enforcement and accountability, and the country’s narrow development strategy which he described as a consumption-driven and service-oriented economy.
Veloso arrives today
handicap, physical or mental illness.
FDND hails Senate concurrence
RAA
By Rex Anthony Naval
By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
ILIPINO overseas worker Mary Jane Veloso is expected to return to the Philippines on Wednesday from Indonesia, where she spent almost 15 years in prison after being sentenced to death for drug trafficking.
President Marcos expressed elation over Veloso’s schedule return.
“We’re celebrating already,” Marcos told reporters on the sidelines of the inauguration of the Department of Migrant Workers’ Bagong Pilipinas One-Stop OFW AKSYON Center.
The government on Monday announced that Veloso will be able to spend Christmas again with her family as she is expected to be in Manila by Wednesday.
Veloso’s homecoming, the Palace said, is “the fruit of more than a decade of persistent discussions, consultations and diplomacy.”
Veloso’s family sent letters to then Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Marcos to appeal her clemency in January.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has barred media coverage for Veloso’s arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.
In an advisory, the DOJ told media representatives to seek any update or information on Veloso’s return from the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor)
Public Information Office (PIO) headed by Chief Insp. Marlon Mangubat.
“Please be advised that there will be no media coverage for the arrival of Mary Jane Veloso at Terminal 3,” the DOJ said.
Upon her arrival, the BuCor said Veloso will undergo the protocol fiveday quarantine at the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City for newly committed persons deprived of liberty (PDL).
Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. who is now in Indonesia, is heading the delegation that will accompany Veloso on her way back to the country under the Oplan “Sundo-Nesia.”
Catapang said under the Bucor’s Manual on the Admission and Confinement of PDL, Veloso as a newly committed person deprived of liberty (PDL) or prisoner shall be mandatorily housed at the Reception and Diagnostic Center (RDC) for not more than 60 days, comprising of a five-day quarantine period and a 55-day orientation, diagnostic evaluation, and initial security classification.
After that process, Veloso will be transferred to her assigned corrections facility based on the approved resolution of the RDC Initial Classification Board.
During her five-day quarantine period , Veloso will be placed in a regular quarantine cell for medical and physical examination to determine any
Veloso will also be interviewed by the overseer of CIW to gather data or information to complete her registration form and she will list down the names of her relatives or authorized visitors.
The BuCor said Veloso’s immediate family can visit her after the five-day quarantine period, which will fall on December 24, in time for Christmas.
Catapang added that for the next 55 days, Veloso shall undergo mandatory orientation on corrections facility rules and regulations, PDL rights and privileges, diagnostics procedure, PDL reformation programs, health services, time allowance and PDL grievance machinery.
The Bucor chief also assured the public and Veloso’s family that Mary Jane and her alleged illegal recruiter will be confined on separate facilities so they will not see each other.
Veloso was sentenced to death after she was arrested upon her arrival in Indonesia for carrying 2.5 kilograms of heroin in her luggage.
She was scheduled to be executed by a firing squad in April 2015 but Indonesian President Joko Widodo granted a reprieve to allow Philippine authorities to pursue criminal charges against her alleged illegal recruiters.
THE Department of National Defense (DND) on Tuesday lauded the approval of Senate Resolution 1248 which concurred the ratification of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan as it will heighten defense and security cooperation between the two nations.
The Senate on Monday approved the RP-Japan RAA on third reading with a vote of 19-0-0.
“The RAA will heighten our defense and security cooperation with Japan, and enhance the interoperability between the Armed Forces (AFP) and the Self-Defense Forces of Japan through the conduct of more in-depth practical cooperative activities/ exercises,” it added in a statement.
Aside from this, the DND expressed its gratitude to President Marcos and the senators led by Senate President Francis Escudero, Majority Floor Leader Francis Tolentino and Foreign Relations Chairperson Imee Marcos for ensuring the realization of the pact.
“The RAA is set to be approved by the Japanese Diet to render it valid and binding upon both our countries,” it added.
The DND also said that it looks forward to the implementation of the RAA as this will enable the militaries of the two nations to expand its defense cooperation and build trust and confidence amid shared security challenges.
“Pursuing collaborative partnerships
See “Japan,” A4
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Economy
Editor: Nonnie Pelayo • www.businessmirror.com.ph
WESM prices down 10% in December
By Lenie Lectura
@llectura
RICES at the Wholesale Elec -
Ptricity Spot Market (WESM) fell 9.6 percent during the billing period November 26 to December 15 this year compared to the previous billing period, the WESM operator said.
On Tuesday, officials of Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (Iemop) said WESM prices system stood at P3.99 per kilowatt hour (kWh) from P4.42 per kWh. Iemop corporate planning and communications manager Arjon Valencia attributed the decline in WESM
rates to “higher supply margin.”
During the period, available supply went up by 3 percent to 20,064 megaWatts (MW). Demand slightly increased to 13,692MW, up by 0.2 percent. The WESM is a centralized venue for buyers and sellers to trade electricity as a commodity where prices are determined based on actual demand and availability supply. It was created pursuant to Republic Act 9136, also known as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (Epira) of 2001. On Luzon, spot prices declined 10.6 percent month on month to P3.79 per kWh. The grid’s supply went up 4 percent on month to
President Marcos earlier announced that an agreement has been reached between the Philippines and Indonesia for the turn-over of Veloso’s jurisdiction to the Philippine government.
Aside from Catapang, the other members of the delegation for Veloso’s return include Chief Supt Ma. Cecilia Villanueva, acting Deputy Director for Reformation and Director for Health and Welfare Services; Chief Supt. Roger Boncales, acting Superintendent, New Bilibid Prison and Supt. Marjorie Ann Sanidad, acting Superintendent of CIW and officials from the Bureau of Immigration and National Bureau of Investigation.
With Samuel P. Medenilla
“The incentive behind Pogo, in my view, when it started in 2016 was to create resources available for the previous administration...there needs to be a way to disincentivize political actors from even
with like-minded nations is essential as we continue to fortify our own defense capabilities. The RAA with Japan is a testament to the Philippines’ unequivocal commitment to peace, security, and stability of the IndoPacific Region,” it noted. As this developed, the AFP said the
14,191MW. Demand slightly increased to 9,667 MW.
WESM prices in the Visayas fell 8.9 percent month on month to P4.39 per kWh.
Available supply increased by 2.3 percent to 2,449 MW. Demand was up by 1.4 percent to 1,998 MW.
WESM prices in Mindanao dipped 6.3 percent to P4.55 per kWh. Power supply was down by less than one percent to 3,424MW while demand also declined to 2.026MW.
Iemop Chief Corporate Strategy and Communications Officer Isidro Cacho, Jr. said the cool weather and stable supply drove WESM prices down despite some power plant out -
using Pogos as a source or a means of accumulating the economic world in order to launch themselves into political power, and what those disincentives are,” Camba explained.
He also pointed out that another reason for the existence of Pogo in the country is China’s strategic security interests in the Philippines.
Senate’s approval of the resolution concurring in the ratification of the RAA between the Philippines and Japan is a significant step in strengthening defense cooperation between the two nations.
“For the AFP, this agreement provides substantial benefits, particularly in enhancing training opportunities, joint exercises, and interoperability. In terms of our territorial defense posture, the RAA will bolster our maritime domain awareness capabilities through
age incidents. “Historically, we have the lowest WESM prices during December, January months,” he added. He also assured that there will be no power crisis in the summer months of 2025 citing the same factors. “We do not see any red or yellow alerts for the summer. So, at least, I think that’s a bit of a good news. If you look at the weather now, according to the weather bureau, La Niña has started. Unlike last year when El Niño was declared very early, our projections state that there will be no red or yellow alerts next year. Of course, it will be a different scenario if there will be unplanned or forced outage,” he said.
“The presence of Pogos on the adjacent areas of military bases or in the offices of foreign institutions complicates PRC’s efforts. It is unclear whether these are mere coincidences or something more. Moreover, the same infrastructure that supports Pogos could potentially be exploited for espionage or the creation of bots for disinformation campaigns,” Camba explained.
technology transfers, intelligence sharing, and strengthened collaboration with Japan, a country with advanced defense systems,” the AFP spokesperson, Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, said in a message to reporters. Padilla said this partnership will help the AFP address security challenges, especially in critical areas such as the West Philippine Sea. She added that this will solidify the AFP’s preparedness and resilience in safeguarding national sovereignty.
House supercommittee on food warns against price manipulation, profiteering
THE House of Representatives
Murang Pagkain Supercommittee on Tuesday issued a stern warning to supermarkets and major rice retailers, indicating that the five-committee panel will soon investigate possible price manipulation and profiteering at the retail level.
Albay Rep. Jose Clemente “Joey”
Sarte Salceda, the lead chairman of the supercommittee, underscored concerns that certain supermarkets are mislabeling imported rice as premium varieties, drastically inflating prices.
“I am warning supermarkets and big groceries. We have received reports that imported well-milled rice is being labeled as premium rice and sold at P70 per kilo in supermarkets. That means they earn as much as P30 per kilo,” Salceda said, as he announced that supermarket and grocery representatives will be summoned once the QuintaComm reconvenes for further investigation into these irregularities.
Agressive actions
AT the same time, the leadership of the House of Representatives has launched a firm stand against profiteers, hoarders, and smugglers, promising aggressive actions from Congress to stabilize food prices and guarantee affordable goods.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez vowed that Congress would take aggressive steps to stabilize food prices and ensure affordable basic goods for Filipinos.
“The government has done its part. we recently cut tariffs for imported rice from 35 to 15 percent. There is an abundance of supply, yet the prices remain high. Why?” Romualdez asked. “We need to find answers and hold those responsible accountable.”
In a stern warning, Romualdez pledged decisive action against unscrupulous traders and profiteers.
“To those manipulating prices— especially this Christmas season— Congress will go after you. We will not tolerate these abuses,” the Speaker said.
He highlighted the role of the Murang Pagkain Super Committee in the fight against price manipulation, smuggling, and rising hunger.
The committee, composed of five powerful panels—Ways and Means, Trade and Industry, Agriculture and Food, Social Services, and Food Security—serves as a united force to expose irregularities and strengthen government programs.
“Our aim is to bring food prices to reasonable levels. This is about ensuring affordable rice and quality food for every Filipino,” Romualdez said.
He said the super committee is now working closely with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Bureau of Customs (BOC), and Department of Agriculture (DA) to conduct inspections of warehouses suspected of hoarding rice and other staples.
Discrepancies
SALCEDA also pointed out discrepancies in market pricing, citing data that highlights excessive price markups occurring between the wholesale and retail stages of rice distribution.
“We are inviting them next when the QuintaComm reconvenes,” he said.
“We disaggregated market returns, and as much as 48 percent of excess returns are at the wholesale to retail level,” the lawmaker said.
Rejecting explanations offered by the Bureau of Plant Industry and the Grains Retailers Confederation of the Philippines (Grecon), Salceda challenged claims that price hikes are driven by consumer demand for premium rice.
“I do not believe in the excuse given by both the Bureau of Plant Industry and Grecon that the reason for stubborn price increases is consumer preferences for premium rice. We checked the latest reference values, and even the highest quality rice from Vietnam is just P41 per kilo after duties. That doesn’t explain why prices are stubborn at P56,” Salceda explained. He added that the average import price of rice remains around P31 per kilo after duties—far from the threshold of what could justifiably be considered “premium price.”
“So, next time I get a reason like that, the committee will be forced to remind people that there are consequences to lying under oath,” Salceda added. Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
New halal office to create jobs, expand PHL markets
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
Expand market
ME
HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) launched the National Halal Industry and Development Office (NHIDO) to drive the Philippines to the forefront of the global Halal industry by 2025.
National Halal Industry and Trade Office (NHIDO) to drive the Philippines to the forefront of the global Halal industry by 2025.
According to DTI, this move aligns with the country’s aim to boost the domestic halal market and expand the export potential of Filipino products and services.
“The establishment of NHIDO marks a turning point for the Philippine Halal industry,” DTI-Halal Industry and Trade Office Program Manager Dimnatang Radia said in a statement.
“It will serve as a unifying force to transform our goals into reality, unlocking opportunities for businesses, creating jobs, and elevating the Philippines as a Halal-friendly destination globally,” Radia added.
The DTI explained that one of the key priorities of NHIDO is to simplify Halal certification and standards, ensuring easier access for medium, small, and micro enterprises (MSMEs). It added that this initiative would be supported by expanded capacity-building programs that offer specialized training, providing MSMEs and other stakeholders with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the Halal sector.
ANWHILE , the DTI said NHIDO will lead the launch of the “HalalFriendly Philippines” campaign set to broaden the appeal of halal products beyond the Muslim community.
The agency said this nationwide campaign aims to stimulate market growth by raising awareness and tapping into the economic potential of Halal products.
“To achieve this, public awareness programs will be rolled out across various media platforms and through community outreach. These programs will emphasize the broader Halal landscape, correct misconceptions, and promote inclusivity.”
The DTI said the new office will serve as the central coordinating body for all Halal development efforts to streamline initiatives and foster collaboration.
“The NHIDO will formalize partnerships with local government units and relevant agencies to improve governance and cultivate Halal-compliant infrastructure, including slaughterhouses and cold storage facilities,” it said. “This initiative will also involve regional integration efforts to enhance supply chains across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, creating the foundation for efficient Halal trade hubs.”
To ensure data-driven planning and program responsiveness, the DTI said the new office will form a comprehensive Halal product database and implement monitoring and evaluation systems.
“The NHIDO will manage all necessary administrative and financial operations, resource allocation, and personnel hiring to sustain its long-term objectives.
BOI to boost electronics exports with new action plan by mid-2025
THE Board of Investments (BOI) targets the completion of an action plan set to make Philippine-designed electronic products available for government procurement and expand the country’s exports in the first half of 2025.
During the Electronics Manufacturing Forum organized by the BOI, the industry and government representatives agreed to develop an action plan to make locally manufactured electronics products available for government procurement and expansion of the country’s exports.
“We aim to finish the action plan in the first semester of next year. It’s also urgent for us,” BOI Industry Development Services (IDS) Executive Director Corazon Halili-Dichosa told the BusinessMirror on Tuesday.
The forum gathered industry stakeholders and government agencies who identified key products that the local industry could prioritize for manufacturing in the Philippines.
The BOI conducted the forum to explore opportunities following the passage of several significant laws.
This includes The Tatak Pinoy Act, the New Government Procurement Act, the CREATE MORE (Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy) Act, the Self-Reliance Defense Posture (SRDP) Act, and the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), among others.
Comelec approves spending ban exemptions for DOLE, 5 agencies
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
The Commission on elections has approved the Department of Labor and employment’s (DOLe) and five other national agencies’ requests to be exempted from the spending ban ahead of the 2025 midterm polls.
In a press briefing on Tuesday, Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia warned officials not to misuse their exemptions for political gain.
“Sana naman ay ma-exercise natin itong ganitong klaseng exemption na ‘to upang maipamahagi sa lahat nang walang sinisino o tinitignan kung ito’y supporter o hindi ng isang kandidato…Huwag naman sanang gamitin para i -exclude ang hindi supporter ng isang kandidato ,” he said.
Under Memorandum No. 2407495, the poll body approved the Comelec Law Department’s recommendation to allow nine DOLE programs to operate during the spending ban, as stipulated in Section 26-l(v)(2) of the Omnibus Election Code.
These include the Special Program for Employment of Students (P828.9 million), Government
Internship Program (P807.7 million), JobStart Philippines Program (P155.2 million), Adjustment Measures Program (P218.7 million), and Workers Organization Development Program (P35.8 million).
The Financial Assistance Program to Distressed Migratory Sugarcane Workers (P1.9 million), Child Labor Prevention and Elimination Program (P85.2 million), and EnTSUPERneur Program (P100 million) also secured approval.
The largest allocations, meanwhile, are for DOLE’s Integrated Livelihood Emergency Employment Program, which includes the Integrated Livelihood (Kabuhayan) Program (P2.2 billion) and the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (Tupad) Program (P14.1 billion).
“It shall not involve any distribution of Assistance to Individual in Crisis Situation from May 2 to May 12 except those which are normally given to qualified individuals such as, but not limited to basic needs in the form of food, transportation, rnedical, educational, burial, and other similar assistance,” Comelec added.
Aside from DOLE, several programs of the Department of Health, National Housing Authority, Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and Commission on Higher Education were also cleared to continue operations.
Local government units, including Bacoor City, Cavite, and Bohol’s Municipal Social Welfare Development Office, were likewise granted exemptions.
Garcia stressed that all agencies benefiting from exemptions must submit periodic reports detailing the implementation and distribution of their programs. He warned that any abuse or mishandling could result in the suspension of exemption and legal action.
“Yung abuse of state resources, yan yung gusto nating matignan nang mabuti sapagkat hindi dapat ginagamit ang pondo sa pamomolitika ng iilan,” he said.
Comelec Resolution No. 11060 prohibits the release, disbursement, or use of public funds for
social services and housing-related projects within 45 days before Election Day, which runs from March 28 to May 11 next year. Only agencies granted exemptions by the poll body are allowed to continue their activities during this period.
“Remember, kaya naming magdisqualify ng mga kandidato pag napatunayan namin kahit nahalal na, at kaya rin naming mag -file ng kaso sa kanila Garcia added.
Violators of the election spending rule face perpetual disqualification from holding public office if convicted.
Aid during calamities G A RCIA also clarified that government agencies and candidates providing assistance during natural disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions are allowed to operate even without filing for an exemption. He urged officials to avoid politicizing aid distribution, saying it should not be used as a campaign strategy.
“Pwede namang mamigay ng tulong nang hindi pinapamukha sa tatanggap kung kanino nanggaling,” he noted.
Garcia also reminded political aspirants and agencies to inform the Comelec of their relief operations to avoid repercussions. Applications for exemptions will only be accepted until the 45day ban period begins.
CARAGA workers to get ₧50 wage hike
ODichosa stressed the forum’s aim to gather insights from industry leaders to promote local manufacturing expansion of electronics products given the recently enacted legislation providing preference to locally-made goods.
“Specifically, the New Government Procurement Act, signed in July 2024, enhanced the existing procurement systems and increased the local preference margin from 15 percent to 25 percent,” she said
“While the Tatak Pinoy Act provides that for a period of ten years, preference and priority shall be given to Philippine products and services and that said preference and priority shall be guaranteed on all levels of the procurement process. This 10-year waiver period of the Tatak Pinoy Act is, however, slowly chipping away, and thus, we need to work faster,” she added.
Dichosa said the new legislation will benefit the industry as soon as a plan is in place.
“This is the very reason why we have this forum, which is intended to come up with initial agreements on our candidate products and concrete next steps that we will need to follow through starting early next year,” she said.
Among the topics discussed in the forum were opportunities for local manufacturing, focusing on priority industries such as electric vehicles, telecommunications including AI, defense, and renewable energy. Ada Pelonia
VER 130,000 minimum wage earners in Region XIII (CARAGA) are set to receive a P50 increase in their salaries starting next year, the labor department announced on Monday.
The wage adjustment, issued motu proprio by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) - Region XIII, will raise the new minimum wage for private sector workers to P415, up from the current P385.
Under Wage Order No. RXIII-19, the pay hike will be implemented in two phases: the first tranche (P30) will take effect on January 2, while the sec-
ond (P20) will be implemented on May 1.
Aside from minimum wage earners, the regional board also approved a P1,000 increase in the monthly pay of CARAGA domestic helpers, bringing their new monthly minimum wage to P6,000.
This adjustment will take effect alongside the first tranche of the minimum wage increase.
The National Workers’ Productivity Commission (NWPC) said WO RB VIII-24 is expected to directly benefit 132,217 minimum wage earners and 32,866 domestic workers.
To ensure compliance with
MORE RAPS vS. ALICE GUO, FAMILY FILED BEFORE DOJ
THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) filed new criminal charges before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against dismissed mayor Alice L. Guo and her immediate family members for falsification of public documents and violation of the Anti-Dummy Law.
NBI National Capital Region (NBI-NCR) Regional Director and spokesman Ferdinand Lavin added that the agency is also seeking criminal proceedings for forfeiture of several parcels of land covered by the falsified documents.
The other respondents in the complaints are Alice’s two siblings, Shiela Guo and Ximen Guo; and their parents Lin Wenyi and Jian Zhong Guo, the NBI said.
Lavin said the charges stemmed from the acquisition of the parcels of land in Pangasinan by the 3Q Farm, Inc. owned by the Guo family.
The NBI said respondents misrepresented themselves as Filipino citizens although it was later established that they are Chinese citizens.
Lavin noted that forensic examination of fingerprints and verification of documents from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Bureau of Immigration (BI), and the NBI revealed that Guo and her family falsely are Chinese citizens.
“They have falsified the articles of incorporation, the secretary certificate, and the general information sheet,” Lavin said.
“They made it appear that this is a Filipino corporation with 65 percent ownership in order for them to enjoy the privileges being accorded to Filipino corporations. This is an insult to our government, “ Lavin said.
The filing of the charges, according to Lavin, is part of the continuing investigation being conducted by various government agencies on the illegal activities of Guo, who is facing charges of qualified human trafficking and other offenses in connection with her involvement in the offshore gaming operations in the country. Joel R. San Juan
the wage order, the NWPC has directed information campaigns and offered support to businesses in correcting any potential wage distortions.
“RTWPB-CARAGA was likewise ordered to implement productivity improvement programs and gainsharing schemes to support wage growth, especially in areas that may have low productivity,” the commission added.
To date, NWPC has already approved 12 other wage orders for workers across various regions, including NCR, CAR, and Regions I, II, III, IVA, MIMAROPA, VI, VII, IX, and XII.
Six other wage orders for do-
mestic workers have also been issued in regions including CAR, I, II, MIMAROPA, VI, and VIII. The NWPC said that RTWPBX is in the final stage of its minimum wage determination process, while RTWPB-XI is set to begin wage talks in January 2025.
Meanwhile, RTWPB-V is still closely monitoring the economic situation in the Bicol Region, taking into account the impact of recent typhoons.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma earlier said that workers in all regions can expect wage adjustments by the end of 2024. Justine Xyrah Garcia
13.
Brief
14. WANG, MINGXIA Field Sales Consultant
Brief Job Description: The one responsible for “get the sale” using various customer sales methods.
Basic Qualification: Able to research accounts and generate or follow through sales leads. Able to evaluate customer skills, and needs and build productive long-lasting relationships. Able to meet personal and team sales targets.
Salary Range:
15.
Brief
47.
Brief
48.
49. JAO, CHAN-CHUN Research And Account Specialist
Brief
50. LI, XIANXIAN Research And Account Specialist
Brief Job Description: Prepares reports bids and contracts by collecting and analyzing information.
51. LWIN LWIN HEIN Research And Account Specialist
Brief
52.
53. WILLIAM YII TZE HING Research And Account Specialist
Brief Job Description: Prepares reports bids and contracts by collecting and analyzing information.
54. ZHANG, LONGHUI Research And Account Specialist
Brief Job Description: Prepares reports bids and contracts by collecting and analyzing information.
55. ZHANG, YAYI Research And Account Specialist
Brief Job Description: Prepares reports bids and contracts by collecting and analyzing information.
56. BHATTI, KOMAL Sales Consultant
Brief Job Description: Conduct presentations to demonstrate to potential clients the benefits of our products.
57. CHEN, FENGXI Sales Consultant
Brief
58. HONG, ZHIXIONG Sales Consultant Brief
59. JASBEER KAUR
Brief
BusinessMirror
96. JOSEPH, DELE LIONEL Senior Team Leader (For English And French Processes)
Brief Job Description: Responsible for providing guidance and direction to the team to ensure timeliness accuracy and completeness of collected data, administrative work and take the lead in the implementation of projects.
GIGASOL2, INC. 35/f Ayala Triangle Gardens Tower 2, Ayala Ave. Cor. Paseo De Roxas, Bel-air, City Of Makati
97. VALDES CARDONA, MARIO BERNARDO Wind Farm Implementation Project Manager, Consultant
Brief Job Description: Provide advisory services to the Company or its affiliates, in the business or developing, constructing & operating renewable energy projects and/or its component infrastructure project. Basic Qualification: Global
HELLOCONNECT, INC. 7th And 15th Floor Inoza Tower, 40th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig
98. SANTAMARIA DANIEL, EDGAR ALFONSO Customer Care Specialist - Spanish Speaker
Brief Job Description: Responsible for delivering a high level of courteous and efficient customer service in response to customer inquiries across multiple contact channel.
HYPERPUSH MEDIA INC. 15/f Unit 06 Mg Tower Ii, Shaw Boulevard, Hagdang Bato
BusinessMirror
130. JASVIR SINGH
Marketing Manager
Brief
131. SINGH, GURMUKH Marketing Manager
Brief
132. SAINS, GURSEWAK SINGH Procurement Manager
Brief Job Description: Performing all procurement activities including pre-qualification, negotiating supplier agreements, preparation of contracts and tender management.
SHOPEE PHILIPPINES INC. Levels 43-49 West Tower, The Podium, Adb Avenue Cor. Ortigas, Wack-wack Greenhills, City Of Mandaluyong
Brief Job Description: Acquire and onboard SCS Local sellers.
STAR ASIA INTERNATIONAL CONSULTING INC. Unit 503 5/f Campos Rueda Bldg, 101 Urban Ave, Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati 134. PHAM NGOC DUONG Directive Supervisor
TASTY BAY INC. (TASTY BAY RESTAURANT) G01 Coastal, Luxury Residences, Tambo, City Of Parañaque
136. MARIAPPAN, MARIAPPAN Control Room And Records Superintendent Brief Job Description: To supervise
Death toll in Gaza surges to 45,000 as ceasefire talks gain momentum
By Wafaa Shurafa & Samy Magdy
The Associated Press
EIR AL-BALAH, Gaza
DStrip—More than 45,000 Palestinians have now been killed in the war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas militants, health officials in the embattled territory said Monday, as oftenstalled ceasefire negotiations appeared to be gaining ground.
Qatar, Egypt and the United States have renewed efforts to broker a ceasefire deal in recent days, and Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said Monday he believed negotiators are closer to a deal than at any time since the only previous truce, a week-long pause in November 2023 that saw 105 hostages released.
“We all estimate that an opportunity is being created following Hamas’s need to become
more flexible, and I really hope we can advance to a practical stage in this process,” Katz said ahead of a closed-door session of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee.
Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, a key Hamas ally, agreed to a ceasefire late last month.
Palestinian health officials updated the Gaza death toll to 45,028. They said 106,962 others
have been wounded since the war began, and warned that the true toll is higher because thousands of bodies are buried under rubble or in areas that medics cannot access.
The ministry’s count does not distinguish between civilians and combatants, but it has said more than half of the fatalities are women and children. The Israeli military says it has killed more than 17,000 militants, without providing evidence.
The war is by far the deadliest round of fighting between Israel and Hamas, with the death toll amounting to roughly 2 percent of Gaza’s prewar population of about 2.3 million.
A family dies as another airstrike hits a shelter
More than 50 dead were brought to hospitals across the bombed-out territory over the past 24 hours, Gaza’s Health Ministry said.
Among the latest killed were 10 people, including a family of four, in an overnight Israeli strike in Gaza City’s eastern Shijaiyah neighborhood, Palestinian medics said.
Israel claims Hamas is responsible for the civilian death toll because it operates from within civilian areas in the densely populated Gaza Strip. Rights groups and Palestinians say Israel has failed to take sufficient precautions to avoid civilian deaths.
The war began when Hamasled militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting another 250. Israel responded by heavy bombardment and a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third believed to be dead. Most of the rest were released during a ceasefire last year.
A separate strike on a school on Sunday in the southern city of Khan Younis killed at least 13 people, including six children and two women, according to Nasser Hospital, where the bodies were taken. The hospital initially re -
ported the strike had killed 16 but later said three bodies had been from a separate strike.
Louise Wateridge, a spokeswoman for the United Nations relief agency for Palestinians, said she met with children injured in Sunday’s strike. They included a 17-year-old girl with a severe leg injury and shrapnel wounds.
She survived along with her twin sister and three other sisters, Wateridge said, but their mother was killed. Wateridge said one sister described “how their mother’s bones were crushed under the rubble. There was nothing they could do to save her.”
The Israeli military said it had struck Hamas fighters operating inside a command center embedded in a compound that had served as a school in Khan Younis. It did not provide evidence.
A Palestinian journalist is mourned IN central Gaza’s Nuseirat urban refugee camp, mourners gathered for the funeral of a Palestinian journalist working for the Qataribased Al Jazeera TV network who was killed Sunday in a strike that hit Gaza’s civil defense agency. They carried his body through the streets, along with his bulletproof vest.
North Korea gambit backfires: Troops suffer heavy losses in Ukraine combat
By Samya Kullab & Tara Copp The Associated Press
KYIV, Ukraine—Ukraine’s military intelligence agency and the Pentagon said Monday that some North Korean troops have been killed during combat against Ukrainian forces in Russia’s Kursk border region.
These are the first reported casualties since the US and Ukraine announced that North Korea had sent 10,000 to 12,000 troops to Russia to help it in the almost 3-year war.
Ukraine’s military intelligence agency said around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded during battle with the Ukrainian army over the weekend.
The casualties occurred around three villages in Kursk, where Russia has for four months been trying to quash a Ukrainian incursion, the agency, known by its acronym GUR, said in a public post on the Telegram messaging app.
At least three North Korean servicemen went missing around another Kursk village, GUR said.
The White House also said it now believes North Korean troops are on the “front lines” of Russia’s war and are “actively engaged in combat operations” against Ukraine.
National security spokesman John Kirby
confirmed the assessment Monday after Ukraine’s government said North Korean troops had moved from support roles into direct fighting on behalf of Russia. Kirby said North Korean troops are taking casualties in the fighting and promised a strong US and allied sanctions response to North Korea.
Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, told reporters that some North Korean troops have died in combat in Kursk but did not have a specific number of those killed or wounded. Those troops have primarily been used in an infantry role and started fighting in combat operations about a week ago, Ryder said.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov referred questions to the Russian Defense Ministry, which didn’t immediately comment.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged unwavering support for Russia’s fullscale invasion of its neighbor under a mutual defense pact.
The alliance gave a jolt to international relations, and Russian President Vladimir Putin said Monday that the planned deployment of US intermediate-range missiles to Europe and Asia has brought new threats.
“In view of rising geopolitical tensions, we must take additional measures to ensure the security of Russia and our allies,” Putin told a meeting with top military brass. “We are doing it
Al Jazeera said Ahmad Baker Al-Louh, 39, had been covering rescue operations of a family wounded in an earlier bombing when he was killed.
The strike also killed three civil defense workers, including the local head of the agency, according to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital. The civil defense is Gaza’s main rescue agency and operates under the Hamas-run government.
The International Federation of Journalists said last week that 104 journalists and media workers have been killed in 2024, with more than half dying in Gaza.
The Israeli military said its strike targeted Hamas and Islamic Jihad militants in a command center embedded in the offices of the “Civil Defense” organization. It accused the journalist of having been a member of Islamic Jihad, which his colleagues in Gaza denied.
Gaza’s civil defense rejected the claims that militants operated from the site.
“We were stunned by the Israeli occupation statement,” Mahmoud al-Lawh, the journalist’s cousin, told The Associated Press. “These claims are lies and misleading to cover up this crime.”
Magdy reported from Cairo. Melanie Lidman in Jerusalem contributed.
accurately and in a balanced way to avoid being drawn into a full-scale arms race.”
However, military analysts say the language barrier has bedeviled combat coordination between Russian and North Korean troops.
“The poor integration and ongoing communication problems between Russian and North Korean forces will likely continue to cause friction in Russian military operations in Kursk … in the near term,” the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington think tank, said late Sunday.
On Nov. 5, Ukrainian officials said their forces had for the first time engaged with North Korean units that had been recently deployed to help Russia. Ukraine seized land in Russia’s Kursk border region last August in what was the first occupation of Russian territory since World War II. The operation embarrassed the Kremlin and aimed to counter unceasingly glum news from the front line.
The incursion hasn’t significantly changed the war’s dynamics. Over the past year, Russia has been on the front foot, with the exception of Kursk, and has been grinding deeper into eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region despite heavy losses.
Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov said Monday the military has been making steady gains in Ukraine, claiming that they have accelerated recently, with Russian forces capturing about 30 square kilometers (11.5 square miles) of territory a day. Copp reported from Washington.
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Canada’s finance minister resigns as unpopular Trudeau faces biggest test of his political career
By Rob Gillies The Associated Press
ORONTO—Canadian
TPrime Minister Justin Trudeau faced the biggest test of his political career after Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, long one of his most powerful and loyal ministers, resigned from the Cabinet on Monday.
The stunning move raised questions about how much longer the prime minister of nearly 10 years—whose popularity has plummeted due to concerns about inflation and immigration—can stay on as his administration scrambles to deal with incoming US President-elect Donald Trump.
“The Great State of Canada is stunned as the Finance Minister resigns, or was fired, from her position by Governor Justin Trudeau,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
“Her behavior was totally toxic, and not at all conducive to making deals which are good for the very unhappy citizens of Canada. She will not be missed!!!” Trump previously trolled Trudeau by calling Canada a state. And during his first term in his office—when he renegotiated the free trade deal with Canada and Mexico—Trump said Freeland wasn’t liked.
Trudeau swiftly named longtime ally and close friend Dominic LeBlanc, the pubic safety minister who recently joined him at dinner with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, to replace Freeland. Freeland did not make that trip.
After being sworn in, LeBlanc told reporters he and Trudeau are focused on the cost of living facing Canadians and on finding common ground with Trump on border security and economic issues.
“It’s not been an easy day,” Trudeau later told a room of party supporters. He called it one of his party’s “toughest days” but he did not say what he planned to do.
Trudeau faces calls to resign
JAGMEET Singh, leader of the opposition New Democratic Party which Trudeau’s ruling Liberals have relied upon to stay in power, called for him to resign earlier Monday.
“He has to go,” NDP leader Singh said.
The main opposition Conservatives have not called for Trudeau’s resignation but demand an election.
But a no confidence vote in the government is not imminent with Parliament about to break for the holidays.
Freeland, who was also deputy prime minister, said Trudeau had told her on Friday he no longer wanted her to serve as finance minister and offered her another role in the Cabinet. But she said in her resignation letter that the only “honest and viable path” was to leave the Cabinet.
“For the past number of weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada,” Freeland said.
Freeland warns against ‘costly political gimmicks’
FREELAND and Trudeau disagreed about a two-month sales tax holiday and 250 Canadian dollar ($175) checks to Canadians that were recently announced. Freeland said Canada is dealing with Trump’s threat to impose sweeping 25 percent tariffs and should eschew “costly political gimmicks” it can “ill afford.”
“Our country is facing a grave challenge,” Freeland said in her letter. “That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war.”
A Liberal party official said Freeland was offered a position as minister in charge of CanadaUS relations without portfolio and without a department. The
official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of not being authorized to speak publicly on the matter, said the position would have been in name only and wouldn’t have come with any of the tools Freeland previously had when she negotiated the trade with the United States.
Freeland, who chaired a Cabinet committee on US relations, had been set to deliver the fall economic statement and likely announce border security measures designed to help Canada avoid Trump’s tariffs. Trump has threatened to impose a 25 percent tax on all products entering the US from Canada and Mexico unless the neighbors stem the numbers of migrants and drugs.
The statement shows a much larger deficit than expected for the fiscal year and more than a billion for border security.
Can Trudeau survive?
TRUDEAU has said he plans on leading the Liberal Party into the next election, but many party members have said they don’t want him to run for a fourth term, and Freeland’s departure was a huge blow.
Trudeau met with his lawmakers on Monday evening. Later, most of them brushed past reporters, declining to say what was said in the meeting.
Liberal lawmaker Chad Collins said they were “not united.”
“There’s still a number of our members that want a change in leadership. I’m one of them,” he said. “I think the only path forward for us is to choose a new leader.”
No Canadian prime minister in more than a century has won four straight terms.
The federal election has to be held before October. The Liberals must rely on the support of at least one other major party in Parliament, because they don’t hold an outright majority themselves. If
Impeachment drama continues in South Korea as rival parties spar over Constitutional Court
By Kim Tong-Hyung & Hyung-Jin Kim The Associated Press
SEOUL, South Korea—South Korea’s acting leader vowed Tuesday to convey to the world that things are back to normal following parliament’s impeachment of conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, but rival parties began squabbling over the mechanics of a court ruling to determine whether to formally unseat or reinstate him.
The country’s liberal opposition-controlled parliament voted to impeach Yoon last Saturday over his short-lived Dec. 3 martial law imposition, suspending his presidential powers until the Constitutional Court determines whether to uphold or overturn the decision. If Yoon is dismissed, a national election must be held to pick his successor within two months.
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who became acting leader, has taken steps to reassure the US and other countries and stabilize markets. Presiding over a Cabinet Council meeting on Tuesday, Han said he will “continuously do my utmost to inform the international society that Republic of Korea is fast regaining stability and maintain confidence with partners.”
But the country’s intense political strife appears to be far from over, as the rival parties began bickering over whether to fill three
vacant justices’ seats at the Constitutional Court.
To formally end Yoon’s presidency, the nine-member court panel needs support from at least six justices. But since three seats remain vacant following retirements, a unanimous decision in favor of Yoon’s impeachment is required to throw him out of office for good.
Three of the court’s nine justices are directly appointed by the president. Three others are nominated by the Supreme Court head and another three by the National Assembly, and their formal appointments by the president has widely been a formality. The three seats that are currently open are to be nominated by the National Assembly—two by the Democratic Party and the other by Yoon’s ruling People Power Party. The court can rule on Yoon’s case only with the current six justices. But the main liberal opposition Democratic Party, which led the impeachment efforts against Yoon, has said it would speed up the process of restoring the court’s nine-justice system to promote fairness and public confidence in its ruling.
But PPP floor leader Kweon Seong-dong, a Yoon loyalist, created a stir Tuesday as he voiced his objection to a Democratic Party push to fill the three vacancies. He said it would be inappropriate for Han, the acting leader, to appoint
NDP pulls support, an election can be held at any time.
Singh said all options are on the table.
Trudeau channeled his father’s popularity
Trudeau channeled the star power of his father, late Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, in 2015, when he reasserted the country’s liberal identity after almost a decade of Conservative Party rule.
But Canadians are now frustrated by the rising cost of living and other issues, including immigration increases following the country’s emergence from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Justin Trudeau’s legacy includes opening the doors wide to immigration. He also legalized cannabis and brought in a carbon tax intended to fight climate change.
Freeland also said in her letter that Canadians “know when we are working for them, and they equally know when we are focused on ourselves. Inevitably, our time in government will come to an end.”
Trudeau tries to bring in another Cabinet member SEPARATELY, Trudeau has been trying to recruit Mark Carney, the former head of the Bank of England and Bank of Canada, to join his government. Carney has long been interested in entering politics and becoming the leader of the Liberal Party. LeBlanc’s appointment to finance suggests that won’t happen.
Daniel Béland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal, called Freeland’s resignation a political earthquake.
“This is clearly a minority government on life support but, until now, the (opposition) NDP has rejected calls to pull the plug on it,” Béland said. “It’s hard to know whether this resignation will force the NDP to rethink its strategy.”
Democratic Party accuses PPP of trying to drag out the impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court, which has up to 180 days to determine Yoon’s fate.
justices nominated by parliament, saying such authorities solely rest with the president.
“An acting president can appoint Constitutional Court justices when there is a presidential vacancy, but not when the president’s duties are just suspended,” Kweon said.
Many observers say the court’s current six-member configuration is advantageous for Yoon’s chances to return to office, as it would only require a single justice rejecting the parliament impeachment. They note Cheong Hyungsik, one of the six justices, is a clear conservative who was directly appointed by Yoon.
The Democratic Party quickly dismissed Kweon’s argument as “absurd and utterly nonsensical” and urged PPP to abide by a November agreement between the rival parties to nominate the three Constitutional Court justices. Party lawmaker and spokesperson Jo Seoung-lae said PPP has “blatantly revealed their true intention to obstruct the constitutional trial.”
There was no immediate response from Han, who during the Cabinet meeting stressed that the government will cooperate with the ruling and opposition parties to stabilize the economy.
There is no clear definition about what an acting president can and cannot do over the appointments of court justices. The
Time is a crucial issue for Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung, who is favored by polls to win a presidential by-election in the event of Yoon’s ouster but grapples with his own legal troubles. Lee could possibly be prohibited from running for president if the appellate and Supreme courts uphold his lower court conviction for election law violation in November.
Yoon faces allegations of rebellion and abuse of power over his martial law introduction. Investigative authorities want him to appear for questioning later this week, but officials at Yoon’s office and residence on Monday refused to receive requests for his appearance.
The martial law declaration, the first of its kind in more than 40 years, drew hundreds of troops who tried to encircle parliament and prevent lawmakers from voting on the decree. Many lawmakers still managed to get inside a National Assembly chamber and voted to overturn Yoon’s decree unanimously, forcing Yoon’s Cabinet to lift it.
Yoon’s decree, which harkened back to an era of past militarybacked dictatorships, has sparked massive street protests calling for his ouster and resulted in his approval rating plummeting. Yoon’s defense minister, police chief and several other senior military commanders have been arrested over their roles in the martial law enforcement.
Agri trade deficit widens: Can govt and private sector turn the tide?
The foreign trade statistics for agricultural commodities released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on November 24 highlighted the difficulties confronting both the government and the private sector in increasing the country’s farm exports. Based on preliminary data from the PSA, the Philippines remained as a net food importer as its purchases from abroad continued to outpace its exports. This resulted in the widening of the balance of trade in agricultural goods to $3.012 billion in the third quarter, bigger than the $2.967 billion recorded a year ago.
While total agricultural trade in July to September rose by 12.1 percent year-on-year to $6.96 billion, the bulk of it consisted of imports. PSA said agricultural exports, which amounted to $1.97 billion, accounted for 28.4 percent of total farm trade during the period. Imports, however, reached a whopping $4.99 billion or nearly 72 percent of total agricultural trade.
Both the private sector and the government have repeatedly said that farm exports have the potential to lift the sales of Philippine goods. However, despite past efforts to further increase the shipments of agricultural products to other countries, the Philippines cannot significantly reduce the surplus being enjoyed by its trade partners. Out of the Philippines’ primary trading partners, the country maintained a trade surplus solely with Japan, according to the most recent data from the PSA.
The announcement of the partnership between the Departments of Agriculture and Trade and Industry (DTI) a few weeks after the PSA released its agri trade data is a welcome development (See, “DA, DTI to boost PHL agri exports, tackle barriers,” BusinessMirror , December 17, 2024). The agencies forged a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that aims to increase export receipts from key Philippine commodities, including bananas, mangoes, and seaweed, while promoting high-value crops like coffee and cacao. Aside from trade promotion, the MOA calls on the two agencies to resolve issues like market access and tariffs.
Part of the collaboration is the establishment of a “help desk” that will manage export-related concerns. The agencies will also create “commodity councils” starting January 2025 to enhance coordination between government and private businesses. Hopefully, this initiative will eventually allow exporters and local producers to immediately respond to the needs of the international market and take advantage of the income opportunities presented by the increasing demand for food.
Tariffs are just one part of the trade equation, and the ideal scenario is for trading partners to exempt Philippine goods from tax. However, the government must also see to it that exporters are compliant with the quality standards of importing countries. It must be prepared to make representations if nontariff measures have become unreasonable and would irreparably harm Philippine exports.
The administration’s goal of turning the Philippines into an export powerhouse by 2028 will not happen if it could not harness the huge potential of the country’s agricultural exports.
Apart from banking on its usual winners, the state must continue developing other products that could prop up farm export receipts. Hopefully, the creation of new export winners is one of the main objectives of the partnership of the two agencies.
BusinessMirror
New laws that lift the economy
PTHE BUILDER
reSideNT Ferdinand marcos Jr. is probably the most business-friendly chief executive we’ve had. he recently signed several measures into law, signaling a strong commitment to bolstering the Philippine economy and creating more jobs for Filipinos.
I share the President’s optimism that these vital pieces of legislation, which we have worked on diligently at the Senate and the House of Representatives, will translate into profound benefits for the country.
This includes Republic Act 12066, or the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) Act.
The law, signed in November, updates the original CREATE Act by offering enhanced tax incentives and providing greater certainty for investors, positioning the Philippines as a prime investment destination.
Also signed is Republic Act No. 12079, the VAT Refund Law, which allows tourists to claim refunds on value-added tax (VAT) for goods purchased at accredited retail outlets within 60 days. The measure is expected to boost tourist spending by 30 percent, benefitting local manufacturers and retailers.
Another key measure is Republic Act No. 12080, the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, which institu-
tionalizes comprehensive mental health initiatives in schools. The law aims to raise awareness, foster prevention and provide support for students’ and teachers’ mental well-being.
To support the agricultural sector, President Marcos signed RA 12078, amending the Agricultural Tariffication Act to extend the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) for six years.
With a higher budget of P30 billion, the law ensures that farmers have access to high-quality seeds, mechanized equipment and training, enabling them to boost productivity and competitiveness.
The President is also set to sign the 2025 General Appropriations Bill, allocating a P6.352-trillion national budget to sustain government services and drive economic activities next year. The Senate and House of Representatives already ratified the budget, reflecting our commitment to timely governance.
I am confident that altogether, these newly-signed laws will support government services and enhance economic activities in 2025 and beyond.
Looking ahead, the administration is prioritizing more legislations to address critical issues.
These include the proposed creation of the Department of Water Resources (DWR), which the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) is vigorously pushing.
The bill was discussed during the 7th meeting of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC), where Neda Secretary Arsenio Balisacan underscored the vital role of the DWR Bill in managing and developing the country’s water resources.
The proposed DWR will coordinate with relevant agencies on the construction of water projects to improve irrigation and flood management.
I also believe that we need to approve more laws that will facilitate and encourage infrastructure development.
One of these is the amendment to ROW Act, or RA 10752, to address the delays in infrastructure projects caused by the slow acquisition of the right-of-way (ROW).
The ROW Act should be amended to make it more responsive to the needs of implementing agencies and ensure that private property owners affected by government infrastructure projects receive timely and just compensation.
The President himself underscored the need to amend the rightof-way processes and help expedite infrastructure projects. The proposal is also among the priority bills tackled by LEDAC.
Infrastructure development, as I repeatedly said in this space, holds the key to long-term economic growth.
By addressing construction delays, the government can save costs, generate more jobs, improve mobility and enhance Filipinos’ quality of life. The timely completion of infrastructure projects will also support economic resilience. These legislative efforts come as the Philippine economy continues to show promise. The country’s GDP grew 5.8 percent in the first three quarters of 2024.
The Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) projects full-year growth of 6.0 percent to 6.5 percent, driven by holiday spending, stable commodity prices, robust remittances and a resilient labor market.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) maintains its 6.0 percent growth forecast for the Philippines in 2024, while the World Bank estimates a 5.9 percent growth. Both institutions recognize the country’s strong economic fundamentals, with the Philippines poised for robust growth through 2026. Per NEDA, our growth rate still makes us one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia, reflecting our people’s hard work and implementation of sound policies. We in the Senate remain steadfast in our mission to support economic growth by enacting laws that create jobs, attract investments and uplift the standard of living.
Together with sound policies and the dedication of the Filipino people, the country’s bright prospects for sustained development are within reach.
For feedback e-mail to senatormarkvillar@ gmail.com or visit our web site: https://markvillar. com.ph
Trudeau teeters in Canada after deputy’s scathing resignation
By Thomas Seal, Brian Platt, Randy Thanthong-Knight & Laura Dhillon Kane
Estopace Angel R. Calso
Ruben M. Cruz Jr. Eduardo A. Davad Nonilon G. Reyes
by brown madonna Press, Inc.–Sun Valley Drive KM-15, South Superhighway, Parañaque, Metro Manila
Prime minister Justin Trudeau’s administration was thrown into crisis when his trusted deputy, Finance minister Chrystia Freeland, published a withering resignation letter on monday that left him weakened at the worst possible time.
Trudeau and his cabinet have been struggling for weeks to show a united front against Donald Trump’s threat to slap 25 percent tariffs on Canadian goods. The prime minister’s popularity, ebbing for years, is near its lowest point ever. Provincial premiers are sniping at him. Calls for his resignation—common from rivals—are getting louder from members of his own Liberal Party.
All of that was trouble enough for Trudeau. Freeland’s parting shots, though, have pushed his government as close as it’s ever been to collapse, nine years after he swept into office promising “sunny ways.” Freeland, a former journalist who’s been finance minister since
2020, went public with her opposition to the prime minister’s push for short-term spending on voterpleasing measures like tax breaks that expand the budget deficit. She suggested such plans make the government look unserious.
“Our country today faces a grave challenge,” Freeland, 56, said in her resignation letter—referring to Trump’s tariff threat.
“That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war. That means eschewing costly political gimmicks, which we can ill afford and which make Canadians doubt that we recognize the gravity of the moment.”
The timing of her letter might as well have been calculated to cause maximum damage. She posted it to social media site X at 9:07 a.m. in Ottawa, as the city’s political district prepared to watch her unveil an update on the country’s fiscal and economic situation.
Markets were braced for bad news about budget deficits. Freeland’s missive simply deepened doubts about Canada’s fiscal buffers. The Canadian dollar immediately fell and bond yields jumped.
Trudeau stayed out of public view.
He held a cabinet meeting with his stunned ministers, while government officials in a nearby building wondered what to do with advance copies of the statement Freeland was meant to deliver after financial markets closed, around 4 p.m. Ottawa time.
Confusion reigned. Civil servants drew black cloths over the documents while many reporters abandoned the briefing room. Trudeau skipped question period in the House
of Commons and said nothing publicly. Later, he briefly appeared oncamera at a ceremony to swear in Dominic LeBlanc as Freeland’s replacement.
LeBlanc is a veteran politician who is considered one of the safest pairs of hands in the cabinet. When Trudeau, 52, flew to Florida last month to meet Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort, LeBlanc, who’s responsible for border security, went with him.
All the same, Freeland’s abrupt exit is a political nightmare for Trudeau. It deprives him of a minister who was crucial to the government’s mostly-successful efforts in 2018 to preserve close trade ties with the US, during Trump’s first term.
“This isn’t about some grumpy caucus members. This is about a key player, a senior cabinet minister and previously a very strong ally, turning around and publicly distancing herself from the policy of the current government,” pollster Nik Nanos said. See “Trudeau,” A13
Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua Founder
Mark Villar
Climate change is stealing weeks of winter, unnerving ski area owners
By Ethan M. Steinberg
WInTer is feeling a lot less chilly, creating a headache for companies that rely on subzero temperatures.
The number of days at or below 0C (32F) is dwindling in the northern hemisphere, according to the nonprofit Climate Central. More than one third of countries analyzed lost one week’s worth of freezing days—on average—over the past decade, including the vast majority of european nations and more than half of the states in the Us
Warmer days may come as a welcome reprieve for those who endure freezing winters, but the trend is troubling as higher temperatures impact everything from sports to drinking water and even seasonal allergies.
“On the one hand, it feels like a huge relief from the brutal winter temperatures,” says Kristina Dahl, Climate Central’s vice president for science. “On the other hand, take half a step back and think about why that day is happening, and it’s kind of a nightmare.”
Many European countries experienced more than two extra weeks above 0C, on average, over the past decade, including Germany and Belgium, according to the report. In the US, a slew of states in the Northeast including New Jersey, Connecticut and Massachusetts had at least 10 additional days above freezing a year. Business owners who rely on cold weather for income are already feeling the pain.
Brian Fairbank, who chairs the company that owns Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort in Hancock, Massachusetts, has been in the industry for more than five decades. Last season was one of his worst, he says, as revenue dropped 73 percent in March alone after an abnormally balmy and rainy month. The losses put the property in the red for the whole season.
“I’ve been here for 55 years, I’ve never seen a March like that,” Fairbank said. “Climate change makes it more challenging.”
Companies are learning to adapt, though. Sean Hayes—owner of the southernmost ski area in New England, Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort, in Middlefield, Connecticut —wasn’t able to open the slopes before Christmas most years until purchasing a high-powered snowmaking
Her departure probably “accelerates the election to the next possible confidence vote,” he added. In other words, it boosts the odds of an election in early 2025. Trudeau’s aides had been hoping the government could survive until next October, buying time for voter anger about inflation and immigration to cool off.
“It’s actually an example of another G-7 country government teetering on the brink because of a budget controversy,” Nanos said, alluding to recent political upheaval in France and Germany.
In the short term, the instability of Trudeau’s government undermines its ability to respond to whatever Trump has in store—a fact that other ministers seem aware of.
“We know that President Trump is coming in office on the 20th of January,” Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne said to reporters after Liberal lawmakers met on Monday evening. “We owe it to Canadians, we owe it to our families and to our friends and everyone in Canada, to be the best prepared.” Trudeau left the meeting without speaking to reporters, though he showed up later at a Liberal fundraising event. “It is the absolute privilege of my life to serve as your prime minister,” he told the audience—in the present tense.
‘Tell me who your friends are, and I will tell you who you are’
TWarmer days may come as a welcome reprieve for those who endure freezing winters, but the trend is troubling as higher temperatures impact everything from sports to drinking water and even seasonal allergies.
machine for more than $1 million. This season, the slopes opened on Black Friday.
“It’s certainly going to become more of a challenge,” he said. “You will see over the next 10 years, every ski area will have supplemental snow factories for critical trails on the mountain.”
The warmer weather also has an effect on the water supply, according to the report, especially in the Western US where cities rely on mountain snow to fill reservoirs. A temperature increase of 1C can shrink the amount of water stored in snow in early spring by 20 percent, a 2018 study found.
A later fall freeze and earlier spring thaw also extends the run of seasonal allergies, as pollenproducing plants have more time to grow. And crops including fruits and nuts can be exposed to frost as the growing season shifts, which damages their production.
“There are all kinds of consequences to having warmer temperatures in the winter,” Dahl said. “They can vary in different places depending on what the culture is and what the economy is.”The group’s analysis examined data from 123 countries in December, January and February over the past decade, using a Climate Central tool to determine what temperatures would have been in a world without climate change. The study has not been peer-reviewed, but it relies on methods that have been. Bloomberg
Dr.
MAKE SENSE
he saying “Tell me who your friends are, and I will tell you who you are” encapsulates the profound influence that social relationships have on individual identity and character. Friends often mirror our values, interests, and behaviors; thus, the company we keep serves as a reflection of our inner selves. This adage suggests that our friendships can reveal our priorities and tendencies, as they are often formed through shared experiences and mutual understanding. When we choose friends who embody positive traits such as kindness, ambition, or integrity, we are likely to internalize those qualities, shaping our own identity in the process.
Conversely, associating with individuals who exhibit negative behaviors or attitudes can lead to detrimental effects on our character. Such friendships may foster environments of complacency or negativity, potentially steering us away from our values and goals. Ultimately, the saying serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of social relationships and self-identity, highlighting that our friends can indeed serve as a mirror reflecting who we are and who we aspire to become.
The 2025 midterm election is fast approaching, and discussions about candidates’ plans for the country and local communities are already buzzing. While some candidates may avoid explicitly asking for
votes to comply with Comelec’s early campaigning rules, it’s evident that many are eager to gain an advantage over their rivals. As voters, we must look beyond the polished rhetoric and flashy presentations of these candidates.
The Philippines holds immense potential, and the right leaders can help us unlock it. Leadership is not merely about grand promises; it hinges on character, competence, and commitment. Before casting your vote, take the time to truly understand the candidates. Look beyond their speeches and campaign slogans. Let’s focus on personal, professional, and practical criteria in our evaluation.
Begin by exploring their background. Who are they beyond the
public eye? What kind of family did they grow up in? Understanding a candidate’s upbringing, including their parents, siblings, and core values, can provide insight into what shaped their character. Did they come from a privileged background, or did they face the same challenges that many Filipinos encounter? This context is important, as it influences their perspective on and approach to the everyday struggles people face.
If they come from wealthy families, investigate further. How did their family accumulate their wealth? Was it through honest hard work, or is there a history of questionable practices? With smartphones and the Internet at our disposal, we have the tools to conduct research. Use them to verify claims, uncover the truth, and ensure you’re supporting someone who values integrity and transparency.
Next, consider the people surrounding the candidates. Who are their friends, advisers, and close associates? The saying, “Tell me who your friends are, and I’ll tell you who you are,” remains relevant. The company candidates keep reveals much about their values and priorities. Do advocates for progress and fairness influence them, or do individuals with questionable motives surround them?
For instance, avoid voting for a politician whose friends are known smugglers, hoarders, members of cartels and other forms of illicit trade as these associations can harm Phil-
ippine industries and our economy.
To safeguard Philippine industries and the economy, carefully consider a candidate’s associates. Do not support politicians with ties to individuals involved in smuggling, hoarding, cartels, or other forms of illicit trade. These associations can harm local industries that provide employment opportunities and pose a threat to the stability of our economy. As you contemplate your decision, it’s important to remember that having a vision is merely the first step. As US President-elect Donald Trump once said, “Vision remains vision until you focus, do the work, and bring it down to earth where it will do some good.”
A leader’s promises hold little value if they lack the character and competence to fulfill them. Let’s seek out responsible leaders rather than politicians who try to buy our votes or only show concern for ordinary people during election season. Voting is not just a right; it’s a responsibility. It’s our opportunity to select leaders who prioritize the country and its citizens. Let’s embrace this responsibility with seriousness. Together, we can create a brighter and stronger future for the Philippines.
Dr. Jesus Lim Arranza is the chairman of the Federation of Philippine Industries and Fight Illicit Trade; a broad-based, multisectoral movement intended to protect consumers, safeguard government revenues and shield legitimate industries from the ill effects of smuggling.
Japan aims to expand nuclear power in break from Fukushima era
By Shoko Oda
Japan’s government plans to decisively back the expansion of nuclear power, dropping a decade-long policy of reducing dependence on the energy source and reversing curbs initiated following the 2011 Fukushima meltdown.
The nation, which relied on coal and natural gas for more than 60 percent of electricity generation last year, set out a proposed new energy strategy on Tuesday, which urges both nuclear and renewables to be utilized “to the fullest extent” to maintain growth and help curb emissions. The draft policy, which is expected to be adopted, also recommends the construction of entirely new reactors.
Renewables accounted for about 23 percent of the power mix in fiscal 2023 and nuclear made up roughly 8.5 percent, according to the latest trade ministry data.
Nations globally are driving a nuclear power renaissance as governments and power-hungry industries seek to bolster energy security by limiting dependence on fuel imports, and secure a reliable supply of emissions-free power.
K.K. have both flagged an interest in using nuclear power in the nation, while companies including Microsoft Corp. have invested in building local solar plants.
The revised energy strategy should also enable Japan, the fifthlargest carbon dioxide polluter, to boost decarbonization efforts that have been criticized by scientists and climate groups as insufficient.
Japan is currently considering a new target to cut emissions by 60 percent by 2035 from 2013 levels, though that remains less ambitious than countries like the UK.
Trump commented on the turmoil in a post on his Truth Social platform late Monday, saying Freeland was “toxic” and “not at all conducive to making deals which are good for the
very unhappy citizens of Canada. She will not be missed!!!”
Minister without department
FR EELAND’S resignation thrust into the open the tensions between her office and Trudeau’s that had been simmering for some time. Freeland said she’d refused the offer of an alternative post from Trudeau on Friday. That job would have involved helping manage the Canada-US relationship but would not have included a government department to run, according to a government official who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Transport Minister Anita Anand lent force to Freeland’s departure, calling the ex-minister “a good friend” and adding that the news
“has hit me really hard, and I’ll reserve further comment until I have time to process it.”
A finance minister’s resignation can be hard to recover from. In 2022, UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak stepped down, attacking Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s conduct and triggering a cascade of ministerial departures that toppled Johnson despite his big parliamentary majority.
Even before Freeland shocked the country with her letter, Trudeau’s grasp on power already appeared to be slipping. In September, the opposition New Democratic Party pulled out of a so-called “supply and confidence” arrangement that helped the Liberals pass laws in the House of Commons, where they’re the largest party but don’t have a majority of seats. As a result, the government is at risk of falling in any major vote. With assistance from Melissa Shin /Bloomberg Trudeau. . .
Nuclear should account for around 20 percent of the nation’s energy mix by fiscal 2040 and renewables for around 40 percent to 50 percent, according to the strategy, drafted by the trade ministry and advised by a 16-person panel of experts.
Adding more emissions-free power is seen as crucial to allow Japan to attract more data center operators and advanced manufacturing like semiconductor factories. Alphabet Inc.’s Google and Nvidia Corp.backed cloud services firm Ubitus
Nuclear previously accounted for roughly a third of Japan’s power mix, and all 54 of the nation’s reactors were taken offline following the 2011 disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant. Of 33 still operable reactors, only 14 are so far back online. A policy first introduced in 2014 had called on the nation to reduce its dependence on nuclear power.
Japan should consider replacing
decommissioned plants with new, advanced reactors, the advisory panel recommended. Still, boosting nuclear output is likely to be challenging, as stringent regulations remain in place following the Fukushima disaster. Utilities must also go through a lengthy process to win public consent and other approvals. Fossil fuels are seen accounting for 30 percent to 40 percent of Japan’s power mix by 2040, according to the panel, and compares to 69 percent in fiscal 2023. The strategy highlighted a continued importance of coal and liquefied natural gas, and called for the government to continue to develop resources at home and overseas. Overall, Japan’s annual power demand is also expected to reverse recent declines, driven by rising electrification and demands from AI. Total power generation is seen rising to as much as 1,200 terawatt hours a year in 2040, up 20 percent from 2023. With assistance from Stephen Stapczynski /Bloomberg
Trump’s immunity claim fails to kill NY hush money case
By Patricia Hurtado & Bob Van Voris
DONALD T RUMP failed to convince a judge to set aside his conviction in the New York hush money case on presidential immunity grounds, though it’s unclear if the case will still proceed to sentencing as the president-elect continues to challenge the verdict.
New York state court Justice Juan Merchan on Monday rejected Trump’s argument that the trial was tainted by testimony and other evidence that shouldn’t have been allowed under a July US Supreme Court decision that granted presidents broad immunity from criminal charges.
Merchan said Trump failed to raise his immunity argument in a timely fashion and didn’t object to the use of certain evidence stemming from his time in the White House— such as testimony from former aide Hope Hicks—until the first day of trial on April 15. But he also ruled that even that testimony wasn’t subject to the Supreme Court’s ruling.
A Manhattan jury in May found Trump guilty of falsifying business records to conceal a $130,000 payment to former adult-film actress
Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. The verdict on 34 felony counts made Trump the first former president to be convicted of a crime.
Prosecutors used evidence to prove “decidedly personal acts of falsifying business records” and that posed “no danger of intrusion on the authority and function of the Executive Branch,” Merchan said.
Merchan said that any possible error in admitting evidence was harmless, in that it would not have changed the “overwhelming evidence of guilt” against Trump. Merchan also rejected arguments from the Trump team that the Supreme Court decision took the case out of his hands and blocked his authority to rule on it.
Trump’s lawyers and representatives of his presidential transition team didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment on Merchan’s decision.
Prison or probation?
TRUMP, 78, faces as long as four years behind bars, though many experts have predicted all along—even before the election—that he would likely get far less time than that or even just probation. The case is the only one of four criminal prosecutions to go to trial but also bogged
Trump down during his campaign.
Even so, Trump’s sentencing in the hush money case was immediately placed in doubt when he won the November 5 contest against his Democratic opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris.
While the White House does not have any authority over state cases, Trump’s lawyers have asked Merchan to throw out the case. They argue that allowing it to proceed would violate the Constitution by undermining the US presidency. Merchan must also still decide if he’s going to delay sentencing Trump until after he finishes his second term in office, as prosecutors have sought.
Supreme Court
THE US Supreme Court held in July that former presidents are largely immune from charges over conduct that falls within their official duties in office. The hush money case was focused on Trump’s conduct before he was in office—a scheme to keep tabloid stories from being published—but his lawyers argued the immunity ruling nevertheless had an impact.
“The criminal charges here stem from the private acts of the defendant made prior to taking the office
of the president,” the judge wrote Monday.
Merchan said any conversations Trump had with Hicks while she was White House Communications Director about Daniels was “about personal matters involving an alleged affair and a sexual encounter that occurred prior” to his becoming president. The judge added that these matters are “not ‘the greatest public interests’ the Supreme Court contemplated when it wrestled with a president’s ability to deal fearlessly and impartially with the duties of his office.”
Justice Department
SEPARATELY, the Justice Department ended its two criminal cases against Trump on November 25, citing a department policy that states the indictment or prosecution of a sitting President would “unconstitutionally undermine” their ability to serve in office. Meanwhile, a Georgia state case accusing the president of election interference has stalled over Trump’s challenges. Merchan doesn’t have the final word as Trump can appeal his decisions to a midlevel state appeals court in Manhattan, and then up to the New York State Court of Appeals. Bloomberg
Jesus Lim Arranza
Neda Board clears EO for enforcing FTA with Korea
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THE National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) Board has approved the issuance of an executive order to implement the country’s newly ratified Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Korea.
Upon implementation, the Korea FTA will grant preferential duty-free entry on 11,164 Philippine products accounting for $3.18 billion or 87.4 percent of total Korean imports from the Philippines.
“The agreement will support government efforts to manage competitive exclusion vis-à-vis ASEAN neighbors, encourage more foreign direct investments, and secure more preferential concessions than those currently available under the ASEAN–Korea FTA and the Regional Comprehensive
Economic Partnership Agreement,” the Neda said.
The EO was approved during the Neda Board’s 23rd meeting and the last for 2024 on Tuesday. The Neda said the EO willl cover the country’s tariff commitments under the Philippines-Korea Free Trade Agreement (PH-KR FTA).
Signed on September 7, 2023 during the 43rd ASEAN Summit in Jakarta, Indonesia, the PHKR FTA aims to strengthen economic relations between the two countries by facilitating trade and
Chiz, Drilon offer PBBM options on redressing DepEd budget cuts
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
HE incumbent Senate
TPresident and two former Senate leaders have given President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. unsolicited advice on the options that can be taken to restore billions of funds slashed by the bicameral conference committee (BCC) from the 2025 budget of the Department of Education.
In the view of former Senate President Franklin Drilon and former senator Panfilo Lacson, the best way out—if the President has signalled he is not inclined to use is line-item veto power—is to have Congress reconvene the bicameral panel so the latter can redress its removal of P10 billion from the DepEd’s digitalization program, a key plank of efforts to hasten the country’s bid to close learning gaps that have been worsened by connectivity issues in many areas.
Lacson pitched this option because Marcos earlier told reporters he wasn’t inclined to exercise his line-item veto of the budget in order to override the huge cuts in DepEd’s allocation.
Drilon also pitched the lineitem veto option to Marcos, or, alternatively, for him to ask Congress to reconvene the bicam and adjust the budget.
“The President has the power to exercise a line-item veto. He can veto certain sections of the General Appropriations Bill in order that the constitutional mandate can be complied with,” Drilon explained, referring to the constitutional provision that Education must always have the highest priority in annual budgets.
“The President can exercise his persuasive powers to ask Congress to reconvene the BICAM and reconsider its earlier moves,” Drilon stressed.
Drilon said reconvening the BCC can be done, as past experience has
shown. “In fact, worse than that, even after the BICAM has finished its work, after it is sent to the President, in many instances, the President will return the bill which has been approved in the BICAM and ask the BICAM to reconvene. This is not technically correct, but it is being done in the past,” Drilon said. For his part, Lacson said in a separate statement: “While we respect tthe President’s sole authority whether or not to exercise his veto power on the recently legislated 2025 national budget, the Constitution, specifically Article XIV Sec 5 (5) is unequivocal in giving “education the highest budgetary priority.”
However, Lacson acknowledged Marcos’s decision not to use his line-item veto power.
“With that being said, in choosing not to veto, he can still correct this constitutional infirmity by appealing to Congress to reconvene the bicameral conference and rectify the budget imbalance between the education and infrastructure sectors and be compliant with the 1987 Constitution, while the Enrolled Bill is not yet submitted for his signature and approval. I believe it will not take one whole day to do it,” Lacson said.
Escudero: Tap P36-B savings
INCUMBENT Senate President Chiz Escudero offered a different approach, however. Marcos, he said, can “augment Deped’s budget from its billions in unused funds” for computerization program.
“The Department of Education [DepEd] has over P36 billion in unused funds that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. can tap to augment the agency’s budget after the bicameral conference committee of Congress moved to remove its P10 billion request for computerization
investment flows, removing barriers to market access, and creating new business and investment opportunities.
Meanwhile, the Neda Board also approved two significant projects worth P63.2 billion to enhance agricultural productivity, regional connectivity, and economic activity in the country.
The Board approved the P37.5billion Ilocos Norte-Ilocos SurAbra Irrigation Project (INISAIP) of the National Irrigation Administration.
This project is set to improve agricultural output and water management across the three provinces, irrigating agricultural lands up to 14,672 hectares during the wet season and 13,256 hectares during the dry season.
The INISAIP includes the construction of an earth and rockfill dam across the Palsiguan River in Abra, an afterbay dam in Nueva Era in Ilocos Norte, and various linked irrigation canals serving as major irrigation systems.
Additionally, the project plans to incorporate renewable energy components, such as hydroelectric power plants and a solar power
farm, through a public-private partnership.
“With a six-year implementation period, INISAIP will benefit approximately 32,604 families, significantly improving their livelihoods and fostering sustainable economic development in the Ilocos and Cordillera regions,” said Neda Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan, the Board’s vice chairperson.
The Board also approved the P25.7-billion Accelerated Bridge Construction Project for Greater Economic Mobility and Calamity Response (ABC Project) of the Department of Public Works and Highways. This initiative aims to improve connectivity and disaster resilience by constructing 29 bridges nationwide.
Financed through an Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan from the French government, the project is divided into two components. Component 1, comprising seven long bridges, is scheduled from January 2025 to December 2029. Component 2, consisting of 22 calamity response bridges, will run from January 2025 to December 2027.
AGRI CHIEF CONFIDENT OF P38 PER KILO RICE PRICE BY JAN
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE Department of Agriculture (DA) has expressed confidence that it could bring down rice prices sold at Kadiwa ng Pangulo stores to P38 per kilo by January.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the Office of the President has allowed the agency to use the additional P5-billion budget in its cheaper rice programs Rice-forAll and P29.
“I think we can make it P38 to P39 by at least January next year,” Laurel told reporters in an interview on Monday.
“Staring in January, we will be buying rice from traders, farmers, farmer co-ops, importers, and sell it through the Kadiwa ng Pangulo,” he said.
The agriculture chief also disclosed that plans are under way for another set of programs that aim to provide even cheaper rice to consumers ranging from P35 to P37 per kilo, albeit for a “limited quantity” only.
“We will come out with Nutri-Rice [and] Sulit Rice. The sulit rice is 100 percent broken, but it comes from a good variety of rice,” he said.
Laurel explained that Sulit Rice would be sold at P35 to P36 per kilo while Nutri-Rice at P36 to P37.
He noted that the Nutri-Rice would focus on the nutrients of the food staple.
“The regular rice we’re buying now is three-pass already. All the minerals, nutrients, plus fiber [...] are lost. In one-pass, all the nutrients and fiber are still there,” he said.
“The recovery with threepass is 63 percent. The recovery with one-pass is 78 percent. You produce more rice with the same amount of palay, so it’s cheaper.”
The industry employs rice milling systems either through a single-pass or a multi-stage process to produce white rice by removing the husk and bran from the paddy. Unlike a singlepass, removing husk and bran is done separately in a multistage process.
Laurel explained that through the procured stocks from the National Food Authority (NFA), the agency could ask millers to process the palay through a single pass. He said the DA will come out with an information campaign regarding the Nutri-Rice to be released by the second quarter of next year.
Earlier, the agency rolled out the Rice-for-All program in KNP kiosks at P40 per kilo across key public markets in Metro Manila as part of the efforts to shield consumers from inflationary pressures.
THE broad agriculture sector coalition Sinag expressed support for an order issued by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) halting the issuance of import clearances for buffalo meat from three states in India.
The agency recently suspended the issuance of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances (SPSICs) due to confirmed outbreaks of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in the states of Bihar, Maharashtra, and Telangana.
“We thank [Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.] for his quick intervention in preventing another major catastrophe that would threaten the whole livestock industry while criticizing meat processors’ blackmail of production shortage,” Sinag Chair Rosendo So said in a statement.
“These are confirmed outbreaks of foot and mouth disease in the states of Bihar, Maharashtra, and Telangana; so why risk
the destruction of the livestock sector that are still grappling with the onslaught of the African swine fever,” So added.
According to Sinag, the country achieved FMD-free status without vaccination in 2007 and was reconfirmed in 2018.
To maintain this status, the group said the Philippines strictly follows World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) guidelines and protocols in preventing the disease’s re-emergence.
“The regions of Bihar, Maharashtra, and Telangana in India must first achieve FMD-free
According
status, recognized by the World Organisation for Animal Health for it to obtain clearance for export sales,” So said.
to WOAH, FMD is a highly contagious disease that affects cattle, swine, sheep, goats, and other cloven-hoofed ruminants which could affect livestock production and disrupt regional and international trade. Ada Pelonia
SAFETY FIRST FOR THE SEASON Quezon City police personnel man a checkpoint along East Avenue as PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil ordered intensified security operations to safeguard the public, prevent crime, and protect holiday-goers during the Yuletide season. NONOY LACZA
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
‘Nod for Meralco PSA premature’
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
The energy Regulatory Commission (eRC) has denied the joint application of the Manila electric Co. (Meralco) and Masinloc Power Co. Ltd. (MPCL) for provisional approval of their 15-year power supply agreement (PSA).
“Considering that the expected delivery date of the instant PSA shall not occur until August 26, 2025, the urgency of supply from MPCL has not been established. In this regard, the Commission deems it premature to grant a Provisional Authority to the Applicants. Thus, the Application for Provisional Authority and/or Interim Relief by Meralco and MPCL is hereby denied,” the ERC said.
This does not mean that the ERC will not honor the PSA which underwent a competitive selection process (CSP). The commission even noted that the CSP conducted by Meralco is compliant with the 2023 circular of the Department of Energy.
“This one, even if we were to issue provisional approval now, it will not really help Meralco consumers because the contract delivery date
says it will be only by August 2025. Their PSA application is still pending with us though. We will decide on it for final approval before August 2025,” said ERC Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said when sought for comment. “For now, it’s not justified for a provisional approval.”
Last August, Meralco secured the lowest offers for its 600-MW supply requirement from two power generation companies. MPCL offered P5.6015 per kilowatt hour (kWh) for 500-MW capacity, while GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co. offered to supply the remaining 100-MW baseload requirement at a rate of P5.7392 per kWh. Both offers were significantly lower than the P7.2609 per kWh reserve price set for the bidding.
Meralco Senior Vice President and Head of Regulatory Management Jose Ronald V. Valles said the main objective of the CSP is to secure the least cost supply for its customers.
“We hope that there will be no further delays…We trust that ERC
evaluation and approval will also be swift so customers can enjoy these very low rates upon scheduled delivery date in August 2025.”
Aligned with its annual Power Supply Procurement Plan approved by the DOE, Meralco conducts open and transparent CSPs in full compliance with government rules and regulations.
Meralco is expecting to surpass the P43-billion profit guidance for 2024 it has set in the first half.
“The recent credit rating upgrade from S&P Global reinforces our commitment to maintain financial stability, while strategically growing our businesses in alignment with our long-term objectives. We look forward to another profitable year in 2025 from organic growth and contributions from our new investments, some of which are awaiting approval from the Philippine Competition Commission,” Meralco Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan had said.
Globe: QC data center nearing completion
GLOBE Telecom Inc. said on Tuesday that ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (STT GDC) Philippines is on track to activate the first phase of its STT Fairview 1 data center by the second quarter of 2025.
According to Carlo Malana, the president and CEO of STT GDC Philippines, the company has completed the structural framework of STT Fairview 1, which is envisioned to cater to the surging demand for
data center solutions driven by AI, cloud services, and hyperscalers.
“This achievement underscores our unwavering commitment to our promise and highlights our dedication to our valued customers, part -
ners, and stakeholders.”
Located in Fairview, Quezon City, STT Fairview 1 is the first building in what is set to become the largest carrier-neutral and sustainable data center campus in the country. Lorenz S. Marasigan
ICTSI unit in Argentina certified to receive neo-Panamax vessels
INTERNATIONAL C ontainer
Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI)
said Monday its Argentinian subsidiary has been certified by the Argentine Naval Prefecture to handle docking maneuvers for neo-Panamax vessels.
ICTSI said the accreditation positions TecPlata as the first terminal in Buenos Aires—and in the entire country—capable of accommodating these large ships.
TecPlata CEO Juan Pablo Trujillo noted that this will boost the competitiveness of Argentina’s foreign trade.
“With this milestone, TecPlata has restored Argentina’s rightful position as a leader in international trade,” he said in a statement.
Trujillo added the certification of these docking maneuvers highlights TecPlata’s infrastructure and technical capabilities, being the only dock in Buenos Aires designed to accommodate upcoming improvements in the depth of the Navigable Waterway.
Neo-Panamax vessels, with lengths of 366 meters and widths of 51 meters, are instrumental in global trade due to their ability to carry larger cargo volumes.
For years, Argentina’s ports were limited to feeder vessels, which required transshipment at regional
hubs before cargo reached global markets. The latest certification allows shipping lines to bypass these intermediaries, offering direct services to the world’s key trading centers.
Trujillo noted that the achievement builds on TecPlata’s recent strategic initiatives in 2024. The port terminal completed the dredging of its access channel and earned recognition as Argentina’s first carbon-neutral terminal, further underscoring its commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability.
Last August, the company reported that its profits jumped by 34 percent to $420.55 million in the first half from $313.80 million the year prior due to the robust performance of its portfolio of international terminals.
The company’s revenue from port operations also rose by 13 percent to $1.32 billion, driven by higher ancillary services, favorable tariff adjustments, and a more favorable container mix at certain terminals.
ICTSI handled a consolidated volume of 6.31 million twentyfoot equivalent units (TEUs) in January to June, marginally higher than the last year’s 6.28 million TEUs. Lorenz S. Marasigan
Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug
Brewing success: Agusan Norte coffee farmers thrive with govt aid
By Alexander Lopez
BUTUAN CITy What started as a small, community-driven effort has blossomed into a successful venture for the Casiklan Wheels Farmers Association Inc. (CAWFAI), a group of robusta coffee farmers from Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.
Thanks to the support of the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the Philippine Rural Development Program (PRDP), CAWFAI has transformed from a producer of raw coffee beans to a full-fledged processor and marketer, reaping significant economic benefits.
Formed in 1998, CAWFAI initially organized as a cooperative in Barangay Casiklan with a vision of enhancing the lives of local farmers.
“We started as a bayanihan [cooperation] group, hoping to improve our farming practices and gain support from the government to elevate robusta coffee farming,” CAWFAI chair Felomino Ancog said in an interview.
In 1999, CAWFAI received its first financial boost of P20,000 from former Agusan del Norte 1st District representative Leovigildo Banaag, allowing the group to acquire a onehectare coffee farm.
The small beginning was bolstered by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which supported CAWFAI’s coffee nursery initiative under the National Greening Program.
Challenges, motivation to expand A MID the initial gains, coffee farmers in Casiklan and nearby villages struggled with low buying prices from local traders, at times earning as little as P80 per kilo.
Faced with these constraints, CAWFAI realized that they needed to shift from merely producing raw coffee beans to processing and selling their own products.
“We understood that relying on traders would keep us from reaching our potential,” Ancog said. “Expanding into value-added processing and marketing became our goal.”
DA-PRDP partnership IN collaboration with the provincial and municipal agricultural offices, CAWFAI submitted a proposal for a green coffee bean production and marketing project under the DA-PRDP’s I-REAP (Investments for Rural Enterprises and Agricultural and Fisheries Productivity) program.
The proposal aimed to boost the farmers’ income by at least five percent while enhancing product quality and distribution.
Approved in 2021, the project secured P19.8 million in funding from the DA-PRDP.
The financing was sourced from the World Bank loan (P8.4 million), Philippine government (P2.8 million), and additional support from the provincial government, Las Nieves local government and CAWFAI.
The funding covered both enterprise and infrastructure costs, enabling CAWFAI to acquire processing equipment and build a coffee process-
ing center, which was completed in July 2022.
Expanding market reach
CAWFAI now manages over 400 hectares of coffee farms across seven villages, harvesting around six tons of beans per bi-monthly harvest.
The organization’s 736 members, including indigenous Manobo and Higaonon people, benefit directly from the cooperative’s success.
Women represent 37 percent of CAWFAI’s members, and the project aims to further increase their participation.
Since scaling up operations in mid-2022, CAWFAI has been able to purchase green coffee beans from members at PHP240 to PHP245 per kilo, significantly increasing farmers’ income.
The cooperative now supplies one to two tons of coffee beans weekly to markets across Mindanao, the v isayas, and Luzon, including Metro Manila.
The roasted coffee products are also gaining traction, with weekly sales averaging over 100 packs.
Anthony Buntag, CAWFAI’s manager, attributed the market expansion to trade fairs facilitated by the DAPRDP, including the Philippine Coffee Expo and events in major cities.
“These exposures have been invaluable in connecting us with buyers nationwide,” Buntag said.
The organization’s efforts were recognized in December 2023 when CAWFAI won in the Caraga Coffee Festival’s Coffee Quality Competition.
Sustaining success
DA-13 Regional Executive Director Arlan Mangelen assured CAWFAI of continued support through skillbuilding and product enhancement initiatives.
“The PRDP will sustain monitoring and help CAWFAI create more market linkages,” Mangelen said, adding that training programs will ensure that members continue to produce topquality coffee.
Lucita, a CAWFAI member, said her family’s income has doubled since the cooperative expanded into processing.
“With DA support, we’re now selling our coffee at P240 per kilo. This progress truly matters to us farmers,” she said.
With its sights set on further growth, CAWFAI’s journey from smallscale coffee farmers to industry players illustrates the transformative impact of strategic government support on rural communities. PNA
Coconut industry shines at DTI’s COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) underscored the Philippines’ position as a global coconut leader in its first COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair at the SM Megamall Megatrade ha ll on December 4.
Organized by the DTI-Bureau of Market Development, Promotions and OTOP (BMDPO), the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), and 14 other implementing agencies, the fair brought together 100 exhibitors from across Luzon, visayas, and Mindanao to showcase the ingenuity of the Philippine coconut sector with high-quality products.
The crowd feasted on a diverse range of coconut-based products, including virgin coconut oil, coconut sugar, coco coir, charcoal briquettes. The fair also showcased innovative food and beverage creations, cosmetics, and eco-friendly packaging solutions.
Also, the 53 beneficiaries of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Program (CFIDP) that participated in the event were presented with special tokens as a gesture of the government’s commitment to the welfare of Filipino coconut farmers and entrepreneurs.
In keeping with the holiday cheer, a Christmas tree, crafted entirely from coconut materials, served as the fair’s centerpiece. It symbolized the resilience, versatility, and the enduring spirit of the Philippine coconut industry.
Coconut Christmas tree
SHOWCASING t he collective effort of the 14 implementing agencies, the tree was adorned with Christmas ornaments bearing their names to signify their commitment to championing all Filipinos through the CFIDP program.
The unique creation of the coconut palm as a “tree of life” represents the industry’s potential to bring prosperity and joy to the nation, particularly during the holiday season.
“The COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair is a testament to the collective effort of the government, farmers, and industry stakeholders to revitalize the Philippine coconut industry,” said DTI-BMDPO Director Marievic Bonoan.
“This event has successfully showcased the ingenuity and diversity of our coconut products, paving the way for increased market access and global recognition,” she added.
Echoing this sentiment, Philippine Coconut Authority Administrator Dr. Dexter Buted emphasized the significance of a whole-of-nation approach in driving the industry forward. “The success of this trade fair demonstrates the power of a unified approach in implementing the Coconut Farmers and Industry De-
velopment Plan (CFIDP). By working together, we can unlock the full potential of the coconut sector and uplift the lives of our coconut farmers.”
Other key highlights of the COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair included the official launch of the COCONUTPhilippines brand and CocoMania Mascots, feature of ecofriendly products and cutting-edge technologies, and display of valuable business connections and networking opportunities.
Mandated by Republic Act No. 11524, also known as the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act, the COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair is a crucial component of the CFIDP. The comprehensive program implements the government’s commitment to revitalize the coconut industry through coconut farmers empowerment, income sources diversification, market reach expan-
Leadership is a life-long learning
AN audience once asked John Maxwell regarding the single most important lesson on leadership. He responded by saying that “If there is only one thing that we should know about leadership, it’s this: that there is more than one thing that we should know about leadership.”
As sales leaders, the process of learning never stops. Last Saturday, I participated in the graduation rites for a group of elite business leaders. They already accomplished much in their fields and yet they still chose
to go through a year-long program under The Business School. How come? We’ll here’s three reasons why we should develop a life-long yearning for learning in sales leadership.
Shifting business landscapes
Ev ERy now and then, business landscapes and the way we do business change. Five years ago, most organizations were not open to work-from-home arrangements and hybrid meetings. But after the pandemic, the entire business landscape of most, if not all, businesses
transformed into an environment that welcomes highly flexible work arrangements. The business landscape shifted!
Two decades ago, online meetings were almost unheard of. But currently, we can discuss business in real time while sifting through presentations and online documents, using just one device at the palm of our hands. When you think about it, it’s amazing how the business landscape shifted through the years. yet we had to learn more about technology in order to cope with the changes. Soon, we’ll have to adapt once more as A.I. begins to dominate the business landscape.
Emerging trends
ON E thing about trends is that there’s a continual emergence of it in one form or another. It may appear in fashion, music, movies, social media, and spoken or written words. These trends to permeate in various levels into our work environment. As such, sales leaders must learn to adapt to these changes in order to sustain effectiveness in leading teams who are likewise vulnerable
sion, and poverty alleviation. The resounding success of the inaugural COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair signals a promising future for the Philippine coconut industry. With heightened global recognition, enhanced market access, and sustained growth, the industry is poised to make significant contributions to the propel th1e country’s economic growth and empower millions of Filipinos.
Capitalizing on this momentum, initial assessments indicate that the trade fair generated significant interest and business partnerships that effectively stimulate the Philippine coconut industry. For updates on the trade fair and other DTI initiatives, follow the DTIBMDPO on social media: @DTI.BMDPO on Facebook and Instagram, and @DTI_BMDPO on X. For other inquiries, please contact Director Marievic M. Bonoan at bmdpo@dti.gov.ph.
to the influences of such trends.
Up-skilling and selfimprovement
LEADERS have this moral obligation to lead the charge in lifting lids. It means that we should always embrace learning through up-skilling and self-improvement. We must endeavor to become better each time so that we can effectively lead others who follow our example and likewise lift their own lids. Let’s face it, everything changes, whether it’s caused by a momentary fad or brought by a deluge of cultural changes resulting to significant alterations in the status quo. Whatever the reason, sales leaders must be prepared for change every time, all the time.
DTI’s Fiesta Haraya in Marinduque drives economic growth through creativity, innovation
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) hosted Fiesta Haraya 2024 in Marinduque, from 2 to 4 December 2024, aimed at boosting the creative economy and cultural heritage of the MIMAROPA region.
DTI Region 4B Director Rodolfo J. Mariposque underscored the DTI’s commitment to fueling economic growth and cultural preservation by championing the creative industry. He highlighted initiatives Fiesta Haraya to empower local artists and MSMEs in harnessing their creative potential.
Organized and hosted by DTI Marinduque Provincial Office, Fi-
esta Hiraya provided a platform for skills development, collaboration, and a showcase of the region’s creative potential. The event featured workshops that engaged participants in hands-on learning sessions. These covered diverse areas such as realism painting, events management and hosting, sculpture, cultural sensitivity, contemporary dance, traditional Kalutang, digital marketing, and feature photography. The event culminated in a showcase of workshop outputs, featuring realism paintings and intricate sculptures, Kalutang music performances, and contemporary dance
pieces. Complementing these artistic expressions, a photography exhibit and digital marketing presentations underscored the region’s potential to thrive in modern platforms while preserving cultural authenticity.
Meanwhile, participants of the events management and hosting workshop showed their newly acquired skills as they took over the closing program. Adding a competitive edge to the festival, the Commercial Skit Competition challenged participants to creatively market products and services of local MSMEs through engaging and entertaining video presentations. Building on this spirit of
innovation, the video Reels Competition celebrated digital storytelling behind Marinduque’s Moriones Lenten Rites.
This encouraged content creators to leverage modern platforms for content creation. Similarly, the Gastronomy Contest championed creativity by spotlighting the culinary heritage with inventive dishes that married tradition and innovation.
This Fiesta Haraya 2024 gathered nearly 500 participants, including artists; micro,
and medium
terprises (MSMEs); and creative
small,
en-
individuals from Romblon, Occidental and Oriental Mindoro, and Marinduque.
FIRST COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair Opening Ceremony (from left): DTI-BMDPO Director Marievic Bonoan, PCA Administrator Dr. Dexter Buted, DTI Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, and Congressman Christopher de Venecia.
Cap: Members of the Casiklan Wheels Farmers Association, Inc. in Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte, display their coffee beans at their headquarters on Thursday (Nov. 7, 2024). The group has successfully ventured into coffee processing and marketing with government support from the Department of Agriculture. PNA photo by Alexander Lopez
DTI MIMAROPA Regional Director Rodolfo Mariposque delivers a key message highlighting the importance of the creative industry on the second day of the Fiesta Haraya in Boac, Marinduque.
Banks loaned less for real estate since pre-pandemic period–BSP
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
BANKS posted the lowest real estate exposure since the prepandemic period in September 2024, latest data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) revealed.
The data showed the real estate loan (REL) ratio of banks and trust departments averaged 19.55 percent in September 2024, the lowest since the 19.5 percent REL recorded in September 2019.
Banks REL ratio stood at 19.6 percent while trust departments REL stood at 6.97 percent in September 2024.
The REL for the banks was the lowest since the 19.54 percent posted in
September 2019. The figure for trust departments was a new low, replacing the 8.28 percent posted in May 2015.
In absolute terms, the BSP said the real estate exposure of both bank and trust departments reached P2.84 trillion in September 2024. The bulk of these loans were in the bank department at P2.84 trillion while the trust department has P3.641 billion.
Earlier, preliminary data on bank lending and outstanding loans for production activities slowed to 8.3 percent in June from 8.4 percent in the previous month.
These loans supported economic activities in key industries such as real estate activities which slowed to 12.3 percent in June from 13.2
Zero subsidy defended as PhilHealth OKs COB
By Claudeth S. Mocon-Ciriaco
@claudethmc3 & Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
@joveemarie
percent in May; wholesale and retail trade, and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, 9.3 percent from 11.1 percent; and manufacturing, 8.9 percent from 10.1 percent.
Loans to other activities such as industries in transportation and storage declined to 26.2 percent in June from 26.7 percent May; and, electricity, gas, steam and airconditioning supply declined to 5.7 percent from 7.7 percent.
Meanwhile, outstanding loans to residents, net of RRPs, slowed to 10.1 percent in June from 10.2 percent in May, while outstanding loans to non-residents expanded by 9.8 percent in June from 8.1 percent in the previous month.
Vizcaya trade hub to allow digital payment for veggies
By Ada Pelonia
THE Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal Inc. (NVAT) will soon accept digital payments for purchases of vegetables, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced last Tuesday.
The DTI said it conducted a quick response code (QR code) onboarding session involving a hundred participants, including cooperative
members, truckers, traders, farmers and disposers, in Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya.
“The onboarding session was the first step in food logistics and driving digital transformation in the province,” DTI Region 2 Provincial Director Michael B. Paggabao said.
As part of the DTI’s 3-year “Food Logistics Action Plan” (Flap), Paggabao said the initiative seeks to improve efficiency and transpar-
Global Economy in 2025–Boom or Bust?
THE year 2024 is almost over and there are so many global events happening in the world today that makes us wonder how these will affect the economy in 2025.
The continuing tensions in the Middle East and Ukraine, climate change, technology evolution and elections next year–how will governments and its leaders move towards economic growth in 2025?
An editorial by Rich Karlgaard for Forbes magazine (November 11, 2024) discussed the “Proven Growth Formula” and suggested that global leaders explore “fresh frameworks to move forward, survive and thrive.” Karlgaard also listed some key growth ingredients that global leaders might as well consider. And the list includes education, rule of law, pro trade, ease of starting a business, stable money, simple and flattish tax and nonpunitive regulations.
I agree with Karlgaard’s list as well as his view that there is no one magic formula but a hundred of other factors to consider.
Education is first on the list because I believe skills and talents are needed to improve production efficiency and as a foundation for economic growth.
To do this, more development efforts are needed in this area. This factor is also mentioned in the Economic Outlook of Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) issued last December 4 of the need to enhance effort in the development of education.
Rule of law is also important because investors need to know if they can trust the justice system before they bring in their investments. This is obvious, since, of course, businesses want to make sure the legal environment is fair and predictable before they risk their money to investing in a certain country.
In the Philippines we have some developments in the ease of doing business; but there is a lot more room for improvement. Investors do not want to go through” red tape” or longer processes and to accomplish huge number of requirements such as filling out many forms, less automated systems, longer time for approval, etc.
One example of non-punitive regulations cited in the editorial is when Germany shut down their nuclear power plants as a political statement and relied on their natural energy requirements on Russia, which is not a good economic decision. As a consequence, German companies, which include renowned auto
manufacturers and chemical producers, pay among the world’s highest electricity costs. The political statement they want to show the world along with punitive regulations has adversely affected their economic growth.
In the Philippines, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol last October and signed a memorandum of understanding on the feasibility study of Bataan Nuclear Plant (Eco-Business, October 14, 2024). In that same article, Ronald Daryll E. Gatchalian, science research specialist and one of the only known nuclear engineers in the country, said that nuclear power is safe as long as it follows international standards. Since wind and solar are intermittent in nature, without nuclear energy, baseload power will be dominated by carbon fuels, which will not lower carbon emissions. Furthermore, Marcos recently signed the Create More law that will push, among others, for the establishment of a more efficient approval process by raising the investment capital approval threshold for investment promotion from P1 billion to P15 billion. In other words, any amount below the threshold does not need to go through the Fiscal Incentives Review Board for approval. The law contains other several other measures to attract investors and help spur economic growth.
Morgan Stanley forecast that overall global growth will remain at 3.2 percent in 2025, but softening to 2.8 percent in 2026. Each global leader may have different strategies to how they can grow their economy and if there is a need to have a paradigm shift in order to have fresh new ideas and respond to the changing times.
In every decision, some risks have to be taken. But at the end of the day, the buck stops right at the leader’s desk.
ency in agricultural supply chains by introducing digital payment solutions at NVAT, automating essential processes such as parking and lease payments.
QRPh is the code standard of the Philippines fashioned after the Europay-Mastercard-VISA (EMV) global benchmark for secure financial transactions, he explained.
In his message, Paggabao highlighted the various benefits of digital
transformation in terms of ease of doing business. He then reiterated the agency’s readiness to support the organization’s ways forward.
During a forum, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Bank Officer IV Maria Elena A. Madriaga discussed the role of financial institutions and provided insights on how to identify potential scams and assess other risks related to individual accounts.
EastWest to offer bank loans to users of GCash
EAST West Banking Corp., the Gotianun-led lender, said it has partnered with GCash operator G-Xchange Inc. to offer bank loans to its users.
EastWest’s financial products will be available directly into the GCash application, allowing users to apply for its lending products within the app through GCash ads, the lender explained. With EastWest integrated into the GCash platform, users can discover and apply for personal loans tailored to their needs, it added.
In the future, additional EastWest products will be made available on GCash, further enhancing financial options for users, the company said.
“EastWest is proud to partner with GCash to bring accessible and userfriendly financial solutions to a broader segment of the Filipino population,” EastWest CEO Jerry G. Ngo said.
“This collaboration aligns with our commitment to providing an ‘EasyWay
to Bank,’ ensuring that our customers have seamless, reliable access to essential resources backed by our expertise and service dedication, whether through innovation or face-to-face support,” Ngo said.
EastWest said its integration into GCash will strengthen its ability to support clients throughout their financial journeys and key milestones, ensuring every Filipino has the tools to reach their financial goals.
“Through this collaboration, more Filipinos can now access EastWest’s tailored products directly on the GCash app. This is in line with our shared mission to further promote financial inclusion in the Philippines,” Fuse Lending Inc. CEO Anthony Isidro said.
The primary goal of Fuse Lending, the official lending arm of G-Xchange, is “to enable individuals and small businesses to achieve financial security and growth through various digital lending products.” VG Cabuag
New Pru Life UK Fund offers monthly payouts
THE Pru Life lnsurance Corp. of UK introduced a new fund with potential monthly payouts by investing in JPMorgan Global Income Fund of J.P. Morgan Asset Management through the “Atram Global Multi Asset Income Feeder Fund.”
Pru Life UK launched last Tuesday the “PRULink Flexi Income Fund” for customers with moderate to aggressive investment risk appetite.
The Fund aims to provide potential income and long-term capital growth by investing in a diversified portfolio spanning from high-yield and investment-grade bonds to dividend-paying global equities, according to Pru Life.
This also allows customers to invest in global markets with Philippine pesos and lock in potential returns in pesos when the US dollar appreciates in value, the insurer explained.
Pru Life UK said the payouts, based on the number of units held at the time of payout, can support family goals and individual financial aspirations.
Customers may opt for Fund when they avail of any of the peso-denominated investment-linked life insurance
products, such as the “PRULink Investor Account Plus,” “PRUMillionaire” or through the “PRUMillion Flex.”
“With a focus on innovation and customer-centric solutions, Pru Life UK aims to empower Filipinos to seize global opportunities while benefiting from the peace of mind that comes with life insurance protection,” according to the insurer.
Pru Life UK Vice President and Chief Product Officer Garen U. Dee said the Fund reflects its commitment to helping customers achieve their financial goals through diversified investments from the world’s most respectable companies and incomegenerating opportunities.
“With this latest fund that customers can choose with select Pru Life UK insurance products, they can invest globally and earn monthly which will be beneficial for any family needs or even to pursue individual passions,” Dee said.
Pru Life UK is one of the first life insurance companies in the Philippines approved to distribute US dollar-denominated investment-linked life insurance policies in the country. Reine Juvierre Alberto
HEALTH Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa and members of the Board of Directors of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) approved for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 a P284-billion corporate operating budget (COB), which is 10-percent higher than the previous year.
The COB is PhilHealth’s version of a General Appropriations Act (GAA) or a General Appropriations Ordinance of local government units, the Department of Health (DOH) explained.
“PhilHealth has a lot of money, well over the reserve fund ceiling allowed by law. This surplus is a result of underspending for benefits through the years, which is why Filipino families pay high out of pocket,” Herbosa said.
Likewise, the Board also approved the Benefits Committee (BenCom)endorsed second round of increases in selected case rates, by as much as 50 percent, an addition to an emergency care benefit, glasses and optometric services for children, open heart surgery benefits, and pediatric cataract extractions.
The Board-approved COB 2025 already factored in the zero government premium subsidy for indirect contributors for 2025, as decided by the Bicameral Conference Committee (Bicam) of Congress, according to the DOH. It includes computations by PhilHealth Management of a P150 billion surplus as of October 31, 2024. The formula used is accumulated net income, also known as accumulated revenues, over the years of P431 billion, minus the Reserve Fund ceiling of P281 billion. Within the 2025 COB is the amount of P271 billion programmed for benefit expenses, higher by 11 percent compared to FY 2024.
Higher benefits
THE higher allocation for benefit expenses takes into account Board-approved increases in case rates, Z benefits, PhilHealth Konsulta at P1,700 and P2,100 capitation per person, and 156 hemodialysis sessions at P6,350 per session. It also includes funds for emergency care, outpatient mental health, severe acute malnutrition, and many other standalone outpatient packages.
Despite the increase in the budget for benefits, the Board approved an increase of only 3 percent for administrative expenses, from P12.1 billion in FY 2024 to P12.5 billion in FY 2025. Capital expenditures in the PhilHealth COB 2025 were pegged at only P259 million, which is 91 percent less than the approved equivalent in FY 2024 at P2.9 billion.
The Board observed that its management used only eight percent of its COB this year, which went into information and communications technology (ICT) and other capital expenditures.
ICT, however, was excluded in the COB for FY 2025. The Board said it decided to extend the validity of the COB 2024 for ICT projects in the amount of P989 million to ensure that digitalization measures are implemented.
“The Board approved higher benefits and a budget for 2025 that recognizes the need for PhilHealth to spend more so that families will spend less,” Herbosa explained.
More than enough
MEANWHILE, a leader of the House of Representatives on Tuesday insisted that the PhilHealth has more
than enough reserve funds to cover the health needs of Filipinos, contrary to false claims circulating in social media.
House Assistant Majority Leader and Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong said false claims are circulating that “no one is allowed to get sick next year” because PhilHealth supposedly has no funds after not being granted a premium subsidy in the 2025 budget. During recent congressional hearings, Adiong said lawmakers learned that PhilHealth’s investible funds have reached P504 billion.
On top of this, he said PhilHealth officials reported that its surplus reserve funds amounted to P183 billion, apart from two unutilized Special Allotment Release Orders (SAROs) amounting to P42 billion.
“Thus, it’s clear that the state health insurer has more than enough to cover the health needs of Filipinos even for the next two years,” Adiong said.
Ultimate question THE substantial reserve exceeds the statutory requirement, which mandates that PhilHealth maintain a reserve fund equivalent to two-years’ worth of average benefit payments.
Adiong said that the Department of Finance estimates this requirement at P280 billion, or P140 billion per year. PhilHealth’s current reserves significantly surpass this threshold, underscoring its financial stability.
“Note, too, that even with zero premium subsidies from the government, annual premium collections from direct members are sufficient to cover average benefit spending of P140 billion,” he added. “Ultimately, the question is: why does PhilHealth have over P500 billion in investments when its primary mandate is to spend to save the lives and pockets of our kababayans [and] not to earn interest?”
In the proposed 2025 national budget, the bicameral conference committee allocated zero funding for PhilHealth subsidies. This decision was based on PhilHealth’s ample reserves and investible funds, which are deemed sufficient to cover its obligations without additional government support. Adiong said that upon orders from the Department of Finance early this year, the state insurer even returned unused reserve funds to the national treasury, further proof that it really has excess funds. Additional transfers, however, were halted by a temporary restraining order by the Supreme Court.
Remains robust ADIONG added that despite the absence of new subsidies, PhilHealth’s financial health remains robust. He said the agency’s investible funds were reported at P504 billion, indicating a strong capacity to meet future claims and even expand benefit packages.
Under the Universal Health Care Act, when PhilHealth possesses excess funds, it has the authority to either expand benefits or reduce premium contributions. While there have been calls from Congress to implement both measures, he said PhilHealth has initiated benefit increases, such as enhancing the hemodialysis benefit package. However, Adiong said the expansion of other benefits, particularly in primary care services like the Konsulta package, has been gradual despite additional budgetary support of P42 billion in the last two years. Given these resources, Adiong said the circulating warnings about PhilHealth’s financial incapacity are baseless.
THE Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) is set to sell through electronic public bidding (e-bidding) a total of 52 commercial, residential, agricultural, and mixed-use lots.
In a statement, the PDIC said the electronic bids will be accepted through the PDIC e-bidding portal starting at 9:00 a.m. on January 22, 2025, until 1:00 p.m. on January 23, 2025, and will be opened at 2:00 pm on January 23, 2025. To be sold on an as-is-where-is basis are closed banks’ assets consisting of 38 residential lots, eight vacant agricultural lots, three agricultural lots with improvements, two vacant residential/agricultural lots, and one commercial lot with improvements. Property areas range from 13 square meters (sqm) to
Image
TIPS FOR KEEPING STRESS AND ANXIETY DOWN DURING THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR
THE holidays are finally here, which means traveling to a picturesque destination and going back home to spend time with our loved ones. But holiday travel isn’t always pleasant. First, there’s that dreaded bumper-to-bumper traffic that’s achingly slow enough to stress anybody out. Add crazy big crowds at the airport in the mix too. It’s enough to beg the question: Is it really the most wonderful time of the year?
Jon Edward B. Jurilla, MD of the Section of Psychiatry at the top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed, www.makatimed.net.ph) shares that the stress and tension you get during holiday trips could be a unique feeling called travel anxiety. “Travel anxiety is characterized by the tension that comes from visiting an unfamiliar place or even just the stress of traveling,” Jurilla explains. “Combine this with the mad rush of frenzied crowds at any airport, terminal and road, and it makes for a not-so-happy holiday.”
As Jurilla points out that while these unpleasant feelings might put a momentary damper on your holiday spirit, they don’t have to stay there forever. You can start out by identifying your stress or anxiety triggers and planning ahead. “For example, are you worried about a last-minute change in your hotel reservation? Be sure to double-check your accommodation details and call ahead to verify their accuracy,” the doctor says. “While it doesn’t guarantee there will be no bumps in your plans, planning ahead helps you feel in control.”
Even starting out with “micro-exposure” to your fears is part of planning ahead. If you have a fear of large, noisy crowds at the airport, you can gradually acclimate yourself by visiting your local mall during peak hours and staying there for a few minutes. Do this a handful of times before the day of your big trip. “This is called habituation. The key is to habituate yourself slowly by going through it multiple times so that when the real situation comes, it won’t feel as overwhelming and scary,” says Jurilla.
The holidays are also an opportunity to master selfsoothing practices, especially when you find yourself suddenly nervous before takeoff or during turbulence. Jurilla recommends the 4-7-8 breathing technique for anxiety. “Simply inhale for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds,” advises Jurilla. “This helps boost oxygen in your organs and tissues.”
Another calming method is to distract yourself as soon as you feel a wave of panic coming on. Fortunately, this is easier than ever thanks to smartphones. Put on some calming music through your headphones, or take on a low-intensity activity like solving crossword puzzles.
It also helps to set aside alone time that’s just meant for you to relax. Even if it’s just 15 minutes in a quiet space, use this time to write down your thoughts in a journal or read a nice book. What’s important here, according to Jurilla, is choosing an activity that relaxes your body, calms your mind, and re-energizes you right after.
Remember, the holidays are meant to be the most wonderful time of the year. And for many adults like you, this actually means simply enjoying a stress-free break from the daily grind more than anything else. You deserve it, too.
LEADERSHIP is not just about titles or authority. It is a mirror reflecting the values of those who choose to follow. The leaders we admire and align with often embody principles and ideals that resonate with our own sense of purpose and goals. This connection between a leader’s character and a follower’s values is not coincidental but important to the dynamics of leadership.
At the heart of this alignment lies shared values. When a leader demonstrates integrity, empathy, or resilience, it draws followers who prioritize these traits in their own lives. For example, someone who values work life balance is likely to follow leaders who provide opportunities for their team to enjoy time at home. Similarly, individuals who prize innovation may gravitate toward leaders who encourage creativity and forward-thinking solutions. Shared values create a bond that goes beyond superficial admiration, fostering a deeper sense of trust and connection.
This shared value is evident in many aspects of life, from politics to business and community organizations. Political leaders, for example, often gain support by championing policies that align
with the cultural, economic, or ethical values of their constituents. Ultimately, a country’s leader reflects the values of its people. In the workplace, employees are more likely to feel motivated and engaged when they see their leaders upholding values like transparency, accountability, and fairness. Such alignment not only strengthens individual commitment but also enhances group cohesion and collective success.
The leaders we choose to follow also shape our identity. By aligning with someone who reflects our ideals, we strengthen our commitment to those principles. This mutual reinforcement creates a sense of purpose and belonging, which can be both empowering and motivating. Following a leader who mirrors our values acts as a beacon, guiding us through uncertainty and inspiring us to live out our convictions more fully.
When we identify with a leader’s vision and values, it often influences the way we perceive ourselves and our role in the world. This identification can inspire us to pursue personal growth, develop new skills, and contribute meaningfully to the groups or causes we care about. For instance, a leader who emphasizes environmental stewardship might inspire followers to adopt more sustainable practices in their daily lives, creating a ripple effect that amplifies the leader’s impact.
However, this alignment also places responsibility on us as followers. Blindly following a leader without critically examining their actions and motives can lead to disillusionment or even complicity in unethical behavior. To ensure that a leader truly represents our values, we must consistently evaluate their decisions and the outcomes they produce.
Critical thinking and self-awareness are essential in this process. It is important to distinguish between
Stay sober and have a jolly holiday season with these expert tips
By Melissa Rayworth The Associated Press
LAST year, when Lauren Haydel began her first sober holiday season, she wondered how difficult it would be to avoid alcohol at family parties and celebrations with friends. She owns a boutique, Fleurty Girl, in New Orleans’ French Quarter, a neighborhood synonymous with drinking.
But few people questioned her choice. “Instead of them asking me why,” Haydel says, “they ask me, ’Oh, do you feel better?’” Many friends told her they’re considering avoiding alcohol themselves. Sobriety has been having a moment, says Jessica Jeboult, founder of the website and online community A Sober Girl’s Guide. “This is the ultimate time to rediscover or change your relationship with alcohol,” she says. With so many alcohol-free products available and growing awareness about the benefits of staying sober, “there is maximum support.”
If you are planning to stay sober this holiday season, here are tips from sober coaches, sober bar managers and happily sober people: Plan drink options in advance of social events. “Having something in your hand just ups your comfort level, because you feel like you’re socializing with this thing in your hand, instead of standing there with your hands at your side,” says Abby Ehmann, who owns Hekate Cafe and Elixir Lounge, a sober bar on New York City’s Lower East Side.
It can help to choose your alcohol-free options in advance. If you prefer something that reminds you of alcohol, sample some of the many non-alcoholic
wines and beers on the market (they’re not all equally tasty) and check which are on the menu at a bar or restaurant you’ll be visiting.
If you’ll be hosting a party or attending one at someone’s home, you also can mix up your own mocktail recipes in advance. “Treat these drinks like they’re really special,” says Vermont-based chef Suzanne Podhaizer, who makes an assortment of mocktails when she entertains.
Don’t forget the garnish, she says: “Consider putting a sugar rim on your glasses or using luster dust on top. The more you make the non-alcoholic drinks feel celebratory, the better people are going to feel.” Mocktails also make great hostess gifts. Mix up a batch of your favorite recipe, pour it into a large Mason jar and tie it with a ribbon to bring with you. Make social plans that don’t focus on drinking. This year, plan to gather somewhere other than a bar. It’s the perfect season “to have some lovely hot chocolates, take them outdoors and go ice skating,” says Kate Baily, a women’s health coach in the UK and host of the podcast Love Sober. If you’re invited to an event that is all about drinking, give yourself permission to skip it, says Adam Cannon, a real estate agent in Pittsburgh who has been sober for 18 years. In his industry, “at this time of year, there’s a different networking event every night of the week,” Cannon says. He opts not to go if “ostensibly, it’s about networking, but it’s at a bar. People are getting hammered.”
Know your sober social window. Even if it’s your habit to stay out late, “you don’t have to do what you’ve always done at this particular Christmas
party,” Haydel says. Drop in for the first hour, then allow yourself to leave when you wish. You won’t miss much. “There’s a witching hour when you’re out at a bar or drinking with friends,” Jeboult says. “When people get past two drinks, three drinks, the stories are the same.” If need be, slip out without explanation. Whether you call it a “French exit” or an “Irish goodbye,” it’s totally an option.
Take breaks and connect with sober support. If you’re feeling stressed during a holiday gathering, “take a time out,” Jeboult says. Escape to the bathroom, step outside for a minute or go for a walk.
Snack breaks help, too. Jay Bridwell, a recovery counselor at Red Rock Behavioral Health in Oklahoma City, often uses the acronym HALT with patients in addiction recovery. If you are “Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired,” he says, you may be more likely to reach for alcohol. So build in time for rest and meals. And have a plan if things get tough. Whether it’s an Alcoholics Anonymous sponsor, a sober relative or a group text with healthy friends, stay connected with people who will support you, Bridwell says. You can also join an online sober group and follow sobriety-related social media accounts.
Plan your transportation. Map out multiple transportation options, rather than relying on one person for a ride home from a party. You’ll have less stress, and feel less motivated to temper stress with alcohol, if you have the freedom to leave when you wish.
View being sober as a holiday gift to yourself. During her first sober holiday season last year, Haydel reveled in meaningful conversations and the joy of
leaders who genuinely embody their stated values and those who use them as a front for personal gain or manipulation. By staying informed and holding leaders accountable, followers can safeguard the integrity of their shared principles and prevent the erosion of trust.
Leadership is a two-way street. Just as followers are drawn to leaders who reflect their values, effective leaders understand and uphold the principles of their followers. This reciprocity creates a foundation of trust and mutual respect, enabling meaningful collaboration and shared success. When leaders actively listen to their followers and use their feedback, they demonstrate humility and adaptability—qualities that further strengthen the leader-follower relationship. This dynamic creates an environment where both parties feel valued and empowered to contribute to common goals. Additionally, leaders who prioritize their followers’ values are more likely to inspire loyalty, commitment, and sustained engagement.
The leader you follow is a reflection of your values, acting as a mirror that reveals what you stand for and aspire to be. By choosing leaders whose principles align with your own, you not only find direction but also affirm and strengthen your identity. In this way, leadership becomes less about hierarchy and more about shared purpose and collective growth.
Ultimately, the choice of who we follow has far-reaching implications, influencing not only our personal journey but also the broader communities and organizations we are part of. By thoughtfully selecting leaders who embody integrity, empathy and vision, we contribute to a culture of ethical and inspired leadership which benefits all of us. n
waking up feeling good each morning with clear memories of the night before.
“Sobriety is the gift that you keep on giving to your future self over and over and over again,” says Eliott Edge, who manages Hekate, the sober bar.
Focus on enjoying this very real gift, Baily says. Take your time getting dressed, visualizing yourself having a great time, and imagine how you’ll feel as your head hits the pillow when you get home.
As a finishing touch, plan a reward for the next day. Maybe a breakfast date with a friend or a morning walk in the park that will feel especially good because you won’t be hung over.
You’ve got the best bits of the evening,” Baily says,
ADDENDUM The story “Redefining Art: The Met’s Visionary Wing Overhaul,” which appeared yesterday in the Art page of BusinessMirror (December 17, 2024), inadvertently left out the author of the story. The article was written by Troi Santos. Our apologies for the omission.
Meet Your Powerful Mate: DELI TOOLS Concept Store Now Open in San Pablo
AGAME-CHANGING moment for Filipino craftsmen and DIY enthusiasts has arrived.
DELI TOOLS, renowned for its German-engineered tools, launched its firstever concept store in San Pablo, Laguna, setting a new benchmark in the local tool industry.
This milestone, achieved in partnership with Uy Tit & Company Inc., the brand’s exclusive Philippine distributor, and HVY Prime Machines, signals DELI TOOLS’ commitment to delivering quality, innovation, and reliability to Filipino communities.
The grand opening saw an enthusiastic turnout of over 100 attendees, drawn by the promise of exclusive deals and premium products. The highlight of the day was the Piso Sale, which gave 20 lucky customers access to top-tier tools at an unprecedented price of just P1. Meanwhile, sought-after items such as the 999 Angle Grinders and 999 Impact Drills, available only at the concept store, showcased the brand’s dedication to offering unbeatable value.
Adding prestige to the event, notable guests such as Arch. Dax Augustus Tapay, known for his roles in FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano and iHeartPH, and the widely-followed DIY expert Von Ryan B. Vera (DIY Dad), a content creator turned modular cabinet business owner with VRV Wood Works, joined the celebrations. Their presence further reinforced DELI TOOLS’ growing reputation as the go-to brand for both professionals and hobbyists alike.
The San Pablo Concept Store is not
just a retail outlet; it is a statement of DELI TOOLS’ vision to redefine how tools are accessed, used, and valued in the Philippines. Catering to a broad spectrum of users, from professionals, semi-professionals, to home and garden enthusiasts, the store embodies the brand’s ethos: quality without compromise.
The launch also represents the first step in DELI TOOLS’ nationwide expansion plan. With a promise to bring its exceptional products and unmatched customer service to more communities, DELI TOOLS is positioning itself as “Your Powerful Mate” in every Filipino household and workplace.
Follow DELI TOOLS Philippines on Facebook for the latest product launches, promotions, and updates on upcoming store openings: https://www.facebook. com/delitoolsphilippines.
For dealership and corporate inquiries, reach out to UY TIT & COMPANY INC. at utci.biz@gmail.com.
CONTINUING its tradition of lighting up Angeles City’s Central Business and Retail District for the yuletide season, real estate conglomerate JDN Realty kicked off the holidays with the bright and merry celebration of its first-ever “Sala Ning Pasku.” Translated as “Radiance of Christmas,” Sala Ning Pasku is a unique offering that brings together lights, sounds, and festivities throughout Nepo Center, captivating both locals and tourists. This occasion further enhances Pampanga’s reputation as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines.
“This is our heartfelt gift to our community and to Filipinos,” said Trixie N.
Valdes, representative of the Nepomuceno family and JDN Environment, Health, and Safety Manager. “This represents the light we aspire to shine on our beloved Angeles City, the brightness and colors that are iconic of the Kapampangan Christmas.”
More than just a celebration, Sala Ning Pasku serves as a platform to showcase the rich talent of the Kapampangan culture. The event highlights the music and visual arts of local artists, adding a unique touch to the festivities.
Colorful hexagonal parols adorn Nepo Center in anticipation of the holidays, with the 24-foot Christmas tree inside Newpoint Mall serving as the centerpiece of the celebration, set alight to launch
IT’S that time of year again. Whether you’re treating yourself to festive goodies or gifting your loved ones what they truly deserve, Maya Saves Xmas by giving your holiday gastos back with up to a whopping P1 million grand prize. As the #1 Digital Bank app in the Philippines, Maya is making this season extra special with holiday perks that help you make every peso count.
Spend Big & Celebrate Bigger
From Noche Buena spreads to surprise gifts, spend it all with Maya! Every time you pay with Maya Wallet, QRPh, Maya Card, or the Landers
Boost
Sala Ning Pasku. The parols on the tree and around the area are the creation of Most Outstanding Kapampangan awardees, veteran lanternmaker Roland Quiambao and award-winning sculptor/ painter Nick Tayag Reyes.
The Hexagon shape and vibrant colors were chosen as a nod to the vibrant diversity of Kapampangan culture, food, and people. Their unique shape and design also hold significance for JDN Realty, set to celebrate six decades of service in Angeles. “These one-of-a-kind parols are meant to emphasize our continued commitment to support and uphold our legacy of playing a key role in the growth and future of Angeles as a thriving center of commerce and culture,” said Valdes.
To further commemorate the celebration, the awardwinning Kapampangan director, writer, composer, choreographer and founder of the musical group Arti Sta. Rita, Andy Alviz composed a special, original Christmas Carol titled “Kasaya Ning Pasko Ne Po?”. The song was performed live by Arti Sta. Rita at the launch, along with a medley of their famous Kapampangan songs for mall goers.
“This Christmas, we wanted Nepo Center to become more than just a place—we wanted it to become a testament to community, tradition, and the creativity of Kapampangans, coming together in the spirit of Christmas,” Valdes concluded, inviting everyone to experience this unique celebration.
IN a bid to elevate the gaming experience of its players, Casino Maxx has launched a new suite of live table games powered by Evolution Gaming, a leading provider in live casino gaming.
This exciting development promises to bring the ultimate and maximum casino gaming experience of NUSTAR Resort and Casino directly to players’ screens at their own convenience. Players can engage with real dealers in real-time via high-definition video streaming, allowing for an interactive experience akin to being in a physical casino.
Through this partnership, Casino Maxx is not only enhancing its game portfolio but also ensuring that players receive topnotch service and security.
Casino Maxx is introducing a variety of classic games, including blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker. Each game features multiple tables with different betting limits, catering to both casual players and high rollers.
With Evolution’s advanced streaming technology, players can expect seamless gameplay, high-quality visuals, and
professional dealers. The games are designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that players of all experience levels can enjoy the offerings.
In a statement, Play Maxx Online Gaming Marketing Director Christopher Cañadella, expressed optimism that the collaboration with Evolution Gaming will entice players to experience maximum winning on the platform.
“Evolution Gaming is one of the leading developers in the world and has a reputation for innovation and quality in the live gaming sector. Their games incorporate advanced technology that ensures fairness, transparency, and an enjoyable user experience,” he added.
The launch of Evolution live table games at Casino Maxx marks a significant advancement in the online gaming landscape.
By combining the thrill of live dealer interaction with a wide variety of games, Casino Maxx continues to redefine the online gaming experience. Experience gaming like no other, only at www. casinomaxx.ph!
HARVEY Tiu, Nicole Tiu, Leah Janog Esguerra, and Dwin Jhocson proudly stand in front of the first DELI TOOLS concept store in the Philippines, marking an exciting milestone for the brand’s expansion.
of the products DELI TOOLS carries.
JDN reinforces Pampanga as Christmas destination with Sala Ning Pasku Kick-off
NUSTAR’s Casino Maxx introduces Live Table Games by Evolution
Editor: Tet Andolong
Strong consumption boosts revenge spending
By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes @brownindio
Revenge spending continues to dominate the local retail industry as more and more Filipinos are engaged in a frenzy shopping over the latest brand trends and other exciting items.
Rick s a ntos, Chairman and C e O s a ntos Knight Frank ( s K F) told reporters in a recent press briefing that Filipinos are engaged in revenge shopping after the lockdowns were lifted. “We’re seeing a lot of expansion and activity on the food and beverage sides, the coffee shops, and we’re also seeing a lot of activity at gas stations and along major infrastructure thoroughfare,” he said.
Furthermore. s a ntos noted the revenge spending is also manifested in the emergence of several fastfood chains and international restaurant brands expanding their presence in the local market. The entry of Tesla, according to s a ntos, is the sign of a growing confidence in the Philippine market. “Tesla has come in and opened up its show room at the Bonifacio Global City. That’s great,” he said.
Janlo delos Reyes, head of research and consulting firm JLL Philippines, said retailers are preparing for a sprightful season as the end-of-year holidays approach.
“The retail segment saw a steady increase in store openings during the third quarter. Food and beverage remained the strongest retail category across both store openings [27.6 percent] and closures
Cherish every moment of Christmas in Alabang as Filinvest City unveiled its newest landmark, The Tree e v ents s t age, alongside its annual tree lighting tradition at Central Park on Thursday, November 28. This highly anticipated event ushered in the holiday cheer with a spectacular display of lights, music, and community spirit. The evening began with a warm welcome from Muntinlupa Mayor r u ffy Biazon, who delivered opening remarks to an excited crowd. The ceremony was graced by the Gotianun family, Filinvest City locators, and special guests. The highlight of the event was the simultaneous unveiling of The Tree e v ents s t age and the lighting of the majestic 42-foot Christmas tree, adorned with life-sized Christmas balls and majestic reindeers. As the sky lit up with a dazzling fireworks display, guests were serenaded by the Philippines’ crooner, r i chard Poon, who captivated the audience with soulful Christmas classics.
The tree events stage: A new icon in Central Park AT t he heart of this year’s festivities is The Tree e v ents s t age, a stunning new venue designed to blend function and beauty. i nspired by nature, its design mimics the elegant curves of tree branches, with curvilinear columns wrapped in tensile fabric. More than just a stage, The Tree is a symbol of community and connection, solidifying its place as a premier gathering space for live concerts, cultural events, and community celebrations.
What sets The Tree apart is its dynamic lighting system, which transforms the stage into a vibrant canvas for artistic light projections, creating a visually captivating experience, especially at night. i t s innovative design reflects Filinvest City’s
[26.1 percent],” delos Reyes said in a post on JLL's website.
“Though new malls brought vacancy levels up to 6.9 percent, these rates are expected to fall to 6.5 percent by the end of the year as local and foreign brands continue expansions in time for the holidays and a lack of new supply is expected to enter the market,” delos Reyes added.
i n 2 024, the household disposable income per capita in the Philippines is forecast to amount to $3.073 thousand in 2024, according to research firm st atista. Moreover, it said consumer spending per capita on food and non-alcoholic beverages in the Philippines is forecast to amount to $9,500 dollars in 2024.
Savoring the transition
R Ay MO nd d e L R O s A R i O, President of Fisher Mall Group of Companies, told the BusinessMirror in a recent interview that the integrated shopping complex has been experiencing a huge traffic since the lockdown was lifted. i n f act, Fisher Mall was proactive as del Rosario and his team saw it as the next trend in retail. “ We are able to create our own website, just online, Fisher supermarket.PH , “ he said. d e l Rosario pointed out that the
Philippines is a “different beast” Filipinos are more familial preferring a visceral and a sensory experience. Meanwhile, he said a lot of Filipinos like the brick and mortar setup as they can check the items physically in the supermarket. At the end of the day, del Rosario said it will strike a balance between onsite shopping and online shopping.
Spreading love and joy Fishe R M all’s Quezon Avenue branch recently held its Christmas tree-lighting ceremony which they celebrated along with the official kick-off of their Fishing for Joy campaign.
This year, Fisher Mall continues its partnership with their chosen charity, Bahay Aruga i n c., a nongovernment organization that provides temporary shelter and support for children battling cancer. “As we enter the season of giving, this initiative allows us to spread joy beyond the holiday season. Our Fishing for Joy campaign is our way of giving back and partnering with Bahay Aruga i n c. reflects our commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in our community,” said del Rosario at the lighting ceremony. Fisher Mall has been supporting Bahay Aruga i n c. since last year because of their dedication to help children and their families during their hardest times. Given the success of their collaboration, they will continue the joint community service through the Fishing for Joy campaign this 2024.
commitment to sustainability, offering a space that harmoniously integrates with Central Park’s lush surroundings.
Festive holiday activities
For the whole family
This year’s theme, “Cherish e v ery Moment of Christmas,” reinforces Filinvest City’s position as the go-to holiday destination in the metro south, particularly for families and the community.
e v ery Friday from November 29 to December 20, The Tree s t age will host an exciting lineup of live performances featuring top OPM artists. The series kicks off with pop/alternative rock band Over October on November 29, followed by singer-songwriter BLA s T e r o n December 13, and Munimuni, known for their soulful makata-pop sound, on December 20. e ac h Friday performance will conclude with a breathtaking fireworks display at 8 p.m. i n addition, local musical acts will perform every s a turday from November 30 to December 21, followed by a Meet and Greet with s an ta Claus every s u nday from December 1 to December 22.
For those looking to explore, bike rentals are available, and guests can enjoy a variety of food options at e at s by the Park, open Friday to s u nday starting at 4 p.m.
A season of light and joy Ce NT r A L P ark’s festive displays, includ
Paskong Pinoy at Seda Residences Makati s e dA R esidences Makati recently hosted a heartwarming Christmas celebration to usher in the holiday season. The hotel’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting was attended by long-time clientele from embassies and multinational groups, representatives of other Ayala Corporation subsidiaries, and special guests from local government agencies and the d e partment of Tourism.
Pinoy’
Editor: Jun Lomibao
UE judokas book
historic golden double in UAAP
A lot of money staked in Vegas
By Tim Reynolds The Associated Press
LAS VEGAS—When the Milwaukee Bucks clinched their spot in the National Basketball Association (NBA) Cup championship game, plenty of the team’s younger and lesser-paid players were exuberant in the locker room.
Yes, they have a chance at a trophy. Those are nice. They’ll also have a chance at their biggest payday of their careers. The NBA Cup
who is making about $48.8 million this season. “No, it’s not accurate what I’m saying. I think about the money—but I think about the money when we talk about the young guys.” Winning players Tuesday will receive $514,971 from the league’s Cup prize pool if they’re on standard NBA contracts. The players on the losing team Tuesday will get $205,988 apiece—players on two-way deals will get half of those figures. At his current salary of $578,577, Thunder two-way player Ajay Mitchell would be making about $7,056 per game. He’s going to do a lot better than that on Tuesday, win or lose.
“Obviously, there’s a lot of money on the line,” Mitchell said. “But my main focus is just on the win. It’s exciting to know that there’s money on the
but
campaign with a victory over teammate and training partner Gabrielle Dizon in the girls’ -44 kgs division. Quency Khian Alcala (-48 kgs), Dennice Tan (-52 kgs) and Lileth Pumay (-57 kgs) completed UE’s golden run with Sophia Novino adding a silver in the -48 kgs category.
Myrina Labjahasan’s gold medal in the -70 kgs and Solenn Trillo’s silver in the -63 kgs division set the tone for UE’s domination on the first of the two-day championship on Saturday.
The Junior Warriors also fended off UST’s late charge to claim the boys’ overall crown behind a strong performance by Paolo Dolor, who posed a huge win over De La Salle Zobel’s Elijah James Manuel in the boys’ -81 kgs division.
Most Valuable Player Chezter Caminong (-66 kgs), Rookie of the Year Deon Ezekiel Ordoño (-60 kgs) and Albrene Borja Jr. (-55 kgs) won UE’s other gold medals in the boys’ contest.
“The team’s training is always, and has been, challenging,” UE head coach Rodimple Rodriguez said. “But I always tell the athletes that our ultimate goal is to do well in international competitions, that’s our ultimate target.”
UST finished second in both divisions with 31 points in the girls’ side on two gold, four silver and five bronze medals and 36 points in the boys’ contest on a 3-3-6 gold-silver-bronze tally.
Abigail Joy Gangan and Sophie Madamba won gold medals in the girls’ -78 and +78 kgs divisions and Julian Vallen Castro rules the boys’ -57 kgs class for UST.
Alphonso Academia steered Ateneo to third place in the boys’ division with his upset of UST’s Zeus Babanto in the -90 kgs class for the school’s 12 points on a 1-1-2 haul.
De La Salle-Zobel completed the girls’ podium with 10 points (1-1-0) behind a gold medal-performance from Gabrielle Talaue in the -63 kgs class.
JD & KQ
For six of the players on the Bucks and Thunder rosters—Antetokounmpo and Milwaukee teammates Damian Lillard, Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez, along with Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Isaiah Hartenstein—the difference between winning and losing Tuesday isn’t even an average day at the office. Those six guys, on average, are making about $443,300 per game. For everyone else, the trip to Vegas will be a nice bump—some nicer than others.
“Not everybody gets the same paycheck in the NBA,” said Thunder forward Jalen Williams, who is making about $4.8 million this season. “We have guys that are on two-way contracts and some guys that are fighting to stay in the league. So, obviously, that money is a bigger deal for some people than others—so we definitely play for that.” Bucks reserve AJ Green makes about $2.1 million this season. The idea of adding $500,000 to that for winning one game blew his mind.
“It is crazy,” Green said. “But that shouldn’t make you play any harder. It
HD Spikers aren’t tired of winning championships
CIGNAL annexed an eighth Spikers’ Turf title after ruling the recent Invitational title at Criss Cross’s expense with HD Spikers head coach Dexter Clamor declaring it’s just the beginning of what has shaped up as a dynastic reign.
“ Tonight, we’ll celebrate,” said Clamor after their 25-19, 25-19, 26-24 title-clinching victory at the PhilSports Arena on Sunday night.
“But for the next conference, we’ll come prepared as ever,” he said. “We still have so many lapses to work on, and we’ll not stop and get tired of winning and be
CALVIN OFTANA has been shooting the lights out for TNT early in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup. The TNT gunner registered a careerhigh in their game against Magnolia with 42 points and nine threes on their
INTERNATIONAL Master (IM) Michael Concio Jr. dumped former leader Gabriel Ryan Paradero in 55 moves of a King’s Indian Attack to rule the Philippine National Juniors Chess Championships for the second straight year at the PACE on Monday night. Concio outplayed Paradero right in the opening phase as he sacrificed a piece for a vicious kingside attack where he extracted a full point to seize the crown with 6.5 points.
champions on tournament after another.”
Winning has been synonymous with the HD Spikers and over the years, the franchise has established itself as the gold standard in men’s volleyball—a culture anchored on discipline, teamwork and a relentless pursuit of perfection. That winning tradition is not simply about having the best talents but molding them into champions.
Key returnees like Louie Ramirez and new stars Owa Retamar, JM Ronquillo and Martin Bugaoan flourished under Clamor’s leadership.
R amirez, in particular, shone
way to a 103-100 victory, a much-needed tonic for the Tropang Giga who lost their first two games in the conference.
The 28-year-old Oftana has actually been on a tear from the outside with a 6 of 10 shooting from the three-point line in TNT’s defeat to NorthPort two weeks ago.
It also booked the Dasmariñas City bet a ticket to the World Juniors Championships in February in Petrovac, Montenegro, where he gets a chance to seize a dream Grandmaster title should he end up ruling the tournament. He went home with the top purse of P20,000 in the tournament organized by the National Chess Federation and backed by the Philippine Sports Commission.
Lexie Hernandez, who topped the girls’ section, will join Concio in Petrovac.
brightest in the Invitational final with his 24 points, including 21 attacks. Clamor said their success was borne out of a collective effort.
“The entire team works hard for every championship, it’s not about one player or two, the whole team sacrifices,” he said. “Everyone pours in a 100-percent effort each time.”
From their thrilling Open Conference conquest last May to their latest Invitational sweep, Cignal’s dominance has been on full display against upstart contenders like the Savouge Spin Doctors or archrival King Crunchers.
But the Gilas Pilipinas pool member did one better last Tuesday against Magnolia, one of the top defensive teams in the league, when he missed only five attempts from the threes.
With his play, Oftana was chosen as the Pilipinas Live-PBA Press Corps Player of the Week for the period December 10 to 15, beating June Mar Fajardo of San Miguel Beer and previous awardee Joshua Munzon of NorthPort.
focus is just winning another basketball game.” The NBA Cup has a prize pool to incentivize players. The teams that lost in the semifinals—Atlanta and Houston—saw their players collect $102,994 each; the teams that bowed out in the quarterfinals—New York, Orlando, Golden State and Dallas—saw their players collect $51,497 apiece.
“I might get a new watch,” Knicks forward Josh Hart, who was asked what he’d do with his bonus, said in a response that went viral—and it should be noted he wasn’t being entirely serious. “I don’t really care about the young guys getting money. I only care about me, what I’m going to spend.”
“It’ll take guys a lifetime to make $500,000 where I’m from,” Portis said. “So, I don’t take any dollar amount lightly.” Green said he would give some of that bonus to his church, some of it to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes
THE staging of the just-concluded Hoka Trilogy Run Asia series was insightful for the leading global running footwear’s local representatives, who aim to take more steps to enhance the brand’s presence in supporting and serving runners and races better in 2025 and beyond.
Given our experience with the Hoka Trilogy Run Asia series, we aim to position ourselves more than just a footwear brand but as a comprehensive running community partner for Filipinos,” Hoka Philippines representative Sharon Salvacion said.
Salvacion said their thrusts will include setting up technical improvement workshops and community-building platforms, master classes in enhancing running skills and promoting endurance and physical fitness plus backing local races nationwide to further foster a Philippine running culture.
She said these initiatives resulted from insights and inputs they gained in staging the Hoka Trilogy Run Asia series.
“ We discovered the depth and vibrancy of the local running community, recognizing that running
so happy to have gone to this program. They welcomed me well and UP deserved the win this season.”
KQ did star a bit in La Salle’s 76-75 squeaker of win in Game 2 but, alas, his performances in Games 1 & 3 were as forgettable as a third-rate magician’s corny tricks. A fter pouring in 18 first-half points to keep La Salle in the thick of things in Game 1, KQ horrendously flunked second-half chores with a mere point to show, leading to a 73-65 UP triumph. And in the Game 3 title-decider, KQ was practically a nonfactor, his 13 points proving literally harmless as they were scored during most of the game’s inconsequential moments. Worst, the 6-foot-7, two-time season MVP wound
is more than just a physical activity— it’s a powerful platform for personal connection and growth,” she noted.
“E ach participant runs their own journey, yet feels part of a larger, encouraging community that celebrates personal milestones and individual progress,” she and other local Hoka officials observed.
The Hoka Trilogy Run Asia revealed that running transcends mere exercise, creating a positive, refreshing environment where participants feel motivated, connected, and part of something larger than themselves,” Salvacion said.
“Running’s popularity in the country apparently stems from its remarkable accessibility and the strong sense of camaraderie it fosters. This insight has reinforced Hoka commitment to supporting runners at every stage of their personal fitness journey,” she stressed. Given these insights and experiences, Salvacion disclosed that Hoka has prepared an exciting variety of footwear and gear for next year in keeping with its status as one of the premier innovators in the industry.
THE Cignal HD Spikers have already built a dynasty with eighth championships to their name in the Spikers’ Turf.
MICHAEL CONCIO JR. (left) with his champion’s certificate with International Arbiter Reden Cruz.
CALVIN OFTANA rises to the occasion for TNT.
HOKA aims to be a stronger community partner for local runners and races in 2025 and beyond.
